Yu-Gi-Oh 1. A Different Kind Of Compatition

I crumpled yet another idea throwing it at the recycling bin by the door, as it went in a spiky haired man entered.

"Hey," he said.

"Hey," I muttered distractedly. Trying to think of an idea I only had three days left to write a minimum of four seasons! Not asking much though it would have helped if Miss had told me about it before the holiday like she was supposed to! Yeah because you had so much free time, I thought to myself.

"How's it going?" he asked enfolding me in his arms, kissing my neck.

"Not now, I need to concentrate," I said trying to pull away.

"That well?" he said amused, not letting me go.

"Argh I can't think," I whined, throwing the pen onto the desk. The worst part was I had a horrible feeling in my mind. Everyone knows which one I mean. The one when something is on the tip of your tongue yet you can't say it!

His long fingers moved the pen of the paper.

"It isn't the pens fault, Mana," he said amused.

"Shut it, Atem," I growled, he chuckled at me.

"It's times like this I miss being able to hid in the puzzle," he said noticing my glare. That's it!

"Out!" I demanded standing up and pushing him from the room.

"Mana – "

"You heard me out, I don't care if you were the Pharaoh. Out!" I said sternly, pushing him from the door and shutting it firmly. Man I wish I had a lock, oh well. I grabbed my pen and scribbled away…

"You ready," Mr Bradley said, I smiled at him and nodded. He gestured for me to follow Miss Richardson.

"OK Mana stand at the front, the judges are there," Miss Richardson said; I stood up my entry in my hands.

"Ok this is our schools entry," she said to the judges I froze when I saw Pegasus; he smiled at me holding his glass up. "Miss Mana Muto, we meet again."

That'll be why he didn't reply to my email, and his expression told me he knew what I was thinking.

The school roared in applause making me blush. I tried to flatten my hair a little. I was wearing my favourite clothes knowing wanting to make a good impression the so it could be a TV programme. On the bright side I already knew one of the judges well and he was in the story.

"What is your story about?" Pegasus asked.

"You'll see, I put people I know as characters, I put a spin on what the world knows." I said, he raised an eyebrow curiously but didn't continue. I took a deep breath, searching for my friends. Luckily they were right in front, guests of honour nearly everyone I wanted to invite were along the row.

Atem, Yugi, Téa, Tristan, Joey, Mai, Serenity, Seto, Mokuba, Bakura, Duke, Rebecca, Professor Hawkins, Grandpa, Ishizu, Marik, Odeon even Rafael Alister and Valon made it! They all smiled encouragingly. I wonder how they would feel in about a minute.

"Long ago." I said, trying to keep my voice strong. "When the pyramids were still young." I saw everyone realise what I was about to do, Atem, Téa and Yugi were trying hard not to laugh. Tristan and Joey were looking at me in shock. Kaiba looked amused but angry knowing it wasn't going to portray him well, not at first at least. Bakura flushed but looked interested he had no memory of any of this. I could see Pegasus trying not to look to amused. "Egyptian kings played a game of great and terrible power. But these shadow games erupted into a war that threatened to destroy the entire world. Until a brave and powerful Pharaoh locked the magic away." I said I sent a quick wink in Atem's direction. "Imprisoning it within the mystical Millennium items. Now five thousand years later. A boy names Yugi unlocks the secrets of the millennium puzzle. He is infused with ancient magical energies. For destiny has chosen him to defend the world from the return of the Shadow Games. Just as the brave Pharaoh did. Five thousand years ago."

Everyone cheered loudly my friends louder than the rest and the telling of our story began...

_**Hi everyone sorry I've been gone so long, it broke my heart when things were getting deleted if you want to read the old stories they are being edited and improved on NovelJoy same user name, me and Platoruledtheworld are friends and he and I co-wrote what is posted and most of the plot but he had decided to give me the full reins. Hope you guys like it**_

_**Good to be back **_

_**JLC xxx**_


	2. The Rivalry Begins

I watched in amusement as Joey lost to Yugi.

"Aw man I lost again," Joey groaned. I chuckled pulling my blue bow lightly bigger as it had sagged slightly.

"Sorry Joey," Yugi said, putting his cards away.

"Joey maybe you should do some trading at the shop," I suggested, leaning against the table they had just been playing on. Yugi smiled at me, I grinned back, I was so glad that Yugi was my brother, the Muto's were the best family anyone could ask for, I had lived with them since I was seven years old, I can't remember how I got there, but I remember learning Grandpa treating me like his own and learning the wonderful game that was duel monsters.

"We'll all go," Téa said.

"Grandpa, hasn't seen you in a while," Yugi said, looking up.

"Grandpa's lucky,' I teased, nudging Joey.

"Mana," he said, getting up and putting me in a head lock.

"Joey you can't do that I'm a girl!" I complained. "Argh Joey!" I groaned trying to wriggle away as he ruffled my hair. Everyone burst out laughing, the bell went and the class used to Joey's behaviour shook their heads and left our little group to it. Yugi put his bag on his shoulder and stood up, his spiky hair giving the impression he was only the same height as me but really he was only shoulder length to Joey whereas I reached his jaw line. When I wasn't in a head lock that is.

"If you let me go I'll convince Grandpa to show you his rarest card, it's awesome." I said trying to bargain.

"Rare card?" Joey said letting go of me, I grumbled pulling my blue skirt down. I hated the uniform it made me look frumpy Téa however looked amazing I pouted at the injustice.

At the end of the day we all headed to the shop it didn't take long it was only a five minute walk soon I heard the familiar bell of the opening door.

"Hello, how can I – ah my darling grandchildren and you have brought your friends are they staying for dinner?"

"Sure what are we eatin'" Joey said before Téa nudged him hard in the stomach.

"We wouldn't want to impose on you Mr Muto," she said.

"Nonsense, I've seen you all grow up it will be interesting to see if your table manners have improved."

"Wow you really haven't seen them in a while huh gramps. These two and table manners," I said hiding behind Yugi for cover.

"Hey!" Tristan and Joey said, we all laughed at them. Yugi turned to look at Grandpa.

"Grandpa, can you show our friends your super rare card." Yugi said.

"My special card," he said.

"Please, please, pretty please." I said pouting and praying towards him. Yugi and Joey copied me much to everyone else's amusement. Grandpa laughed.

"How can I refuse those faces," he said lifting the locked box in the secret compartment of the desk. He lifted the card.

"Blue eyes," I whispered in awe, that monster would be in my deck if he would let me have it. The door banged over open, Seto Kaiba walked through the door.

"Hello can I help you," Grandpa said.

"If you can't I wouldn't surprise me," he sneered. "I want to see this rare card."

"Cool Seto," I said trying to ignore his earlier rudeness. "Maybe we should duel sometime,"

"Yeah," Joey said.

"Please me duel you," he sneered at Joey. "I'd have more of a challenge playing solitaire."

"Just because you're the most highly ranked duellist doesn't mean that you can be a jerk about it," I snapped.

"It can't be," he said ignoring me pushing me into Joey and Tristan.

"Hey!" I snapped.

"The blue eyes white dragon in a dump like this!"

"Enough window shopping," Grandpa said. Kaiba snarled and lifted his brief case slamming it on the counter.

"Listen here old man," he said, no need for that, I thought angrily. "Give me your blue eyes white dragon card and I'll give you all of these." He spun the case around showing Grandpa the content, his eyes went wide, we all leaned over to see and gasped.

"Ah nice," Grandpa said. "But no thanks," the other looked shocked but Grandpa had told me and Yugi the story of how he got that card so it didn't surprise me.

"Fine if you won't trade then maybe you'll sell. Name your price; I can give you anything you ask."

"You deaf, he said he doesn't want your cards or your money!" I said.

Kaiba turned to me. "The Muto wanna be." He sneered. "Just because you leech onto this family doesn't mean you're really his brother or his Granddaughter you're only fooling yourself."

I'd rather he slapped me. "You're adopted too," I hissed, my eyes burning.

"I would like you to leave my shop," Grandpa growled pulling me around the counter, everyone was glaring at him. Téa was keeping Joey and Tristan back.

"Get out Kaiba!" Yugi yelled. Kaiba smirked then stormed out.

"Senile old fool," he muttered as he left.

"You ok Mana?" Yugi said anxiously.

"I'm fine, it was just a shock that's all. I am going upstairs." I said running up to my room I could feel the tears burning in my eyes before I made it to the first stair…

When we tried to ignore Kaiba the next day at school he was smirking throughout, I didn't like it. When we all headed to the game shop the bell rang but no Grandpa.

"Grandpa you here?" Yugi yelled, this didn't make sense, he hadn't even locked up. The phone rang and Yugi ran to answer it. "Hello, game shop," he said, but his smiled suddenly drop. "Kaiba!" he exclaimed, there was a pause. "Kaiba what have you done Kaiba!" he yelled into the phone before turning to us. "He has grandpa,"

"Well then let's go," Joey said, I began to run towards Kaiba corp, the others on my heals. We finally got to the tall building and we reached the top floor.

"Grandpa!" Yugi and I yelled as we ran over to where he was laying on the floor.

"Grandpa, are you ok?" Yugi said leaning in front of him while I laid my hand on his back.

"I tried to teach that boy a lesson about the heart of the cards, but I failed." He groaned.

"Grandpa," Yugi and I gasped.

"How's the old man doing?" I heard a horribly familiar voice.

"Kaiba you sleeze!" Joey yelled. "What have you done to him?"

"We had a duel that's all," Kaiba said. "Each of us putting up their most valuable card at the price, but I guess playing against a champion like me was much stimulation for the old fool."

"Kaiba you should be ashamed of yourself," Téa shouted at him.

"It was fair and look at the sweet prize I won." He showed us the blue eyes white dragon then ripped it in half. We all gasped in horror.

"Grandpa's most treasured card," Yugi said.

"You jerk," I yelled getting up to go and punch him, but Yugi grabbed me keeping me by his side. Grandpa sunk further to the floor. I saw the tears in Yugi's eyes through my own blurry ones.

Grandpa held out his duel deck.

"Huh? Grandpa," Yugi said holding his shoulder. I felt the tears in my eyes fall.

"I built this deck, I put my soul in these cards, and I taught you both everything of you everything I know. Take them. Take my cards and teach him respect." He said. "Teach him respect for the heart of the cards, Yugi,"

"But we need to get you to a hospital," Yugi said anxiously.

"Sounds like an excuse. Your friends and wannabe sister can take care of your Grandfather. While you and I duel,"

"You want to join him in the hospital." I snapped; I felt Joey's hand on my shoulder comforting and warning me.

"Take him, Yugi," Joey said. "We'll take care of your Grandpa while you take care of this jerk. Teach that rich spoilt brat a lesson about the heart of the cards."

"For your Grandpa," Téa joined in, as she helped me lift Grandpa into a more comfortable position.

"Your one of the best players I have ever seen." Tristan said.

"Kick his ass," I said, glaring at Kaiba.

"OK I'll do it," he said taking Grandpa's cards.

"I know you will my boy," Grandpa said.

"Yugi give me your hand," Téa said, he did so she took out a marker and wrote MTTJY linking the letters together in the circle. "It's a symbol of our friendship, we are all connected even when we aren't with you physically, and we are always in our hearts."

Tristan lifted Grandpa onto his back as we ran down the hall to the lifts.

"You'll be ok Grandpa, I just know it," I whispered.

"Joey why don't you go and cheer Yugi on, me Mana and Tristan will take care of Mr Muto." Téa said.

"Right," Joey said running back inside.

We went into the back of the ambulance; I hoped Grandpa would be ok. As soon as the ambulance stopped the paramedics rushed him through the hospital I stayed close to his side until they went into a room.

"Wait here until you are called." The doctor said before slipping into the room.

"He'll be ok Mana," Téa said putting her arm around me.

"Yeah, don't worry Mana; he'll be as good as no in no time." Tristan said, I smiled.

"Thanks guys." I whispered, as I looked back at my Grandfathers sleeping face, through the window

I called Yugi later after they told me Grandpa had to stay in overnight, he told me that he had won the match against Kaiba, I could hear Joey cheering in the background.

"What happened?" Tristan said, I grinned and gave a thumbs up, the two cheered at Yugi's success.

"I am afraid visiting hours are closed," the doctor came in to tell us, we all got up, I left a note for Grandpa encase he woke up, before going with Téa and Tristan to book a taxi home.

The next morning he was released from hospital, the doctors told him to take it easy so I called the school and told them I was ill so I could take care of the shop today while Grandpa rested. We had a few costumers but mostly it was just sorting out stock and keeping the place tidy. About 3 o'clock Grandpa came back down stairs.

"You are meant to be resting," I scolded him.

"Can't an old man stretch his legs?" He said his eyes twinkling, I sighed.

"Fine, sit behind the counter," I said. "The doctor said you shouldn't be on your feet to long." As I said this the door opened and Yugi and Joey appeared.

"Hey guys,"

"Hi Mana, Grandpa you ready for a new student?" Yugi said, Grandpa looked at Joey with a small frown on his face.

"Duel monsters is a very complex game of course only if you are willing to spend endless days and sleepless nights filled with rigorous training." Grandpa said and I look at Joey in sympathy remembering when Gramps taught me.

"Piece of cake," Joey said smiling.

"With that attitude, it may not be worth teaching you," Grandpa said, making Joey's face drop.

"Aargh!" Joey panicked.

"Hey relax, Joey," I said, "I'll teach you sure I am not the expert but maybe Grandpa's too old for students now," I said laying the trap, come on Grandpa take the bait. "No offense, but maybe I should teach him,"

"Hold on young lady," Grandpa said making me smile, hook, line and sinker. "I never said I wouldn't. I will agree only if you work hard."

"I will I promise," Joey said eagerly.

"Very well," Grandpa said.

"See Joey number one lesson," I said grinning. "Duel monsters is a lot like life, for example the trap I just set for Grandpa," I said winking as he clicked.

"Bed with no supper," he teased with a chortle, Yugi laughed too.

"Now I am going to leave before Joey regrets my trickery, I need to get ready for swimming anyway," I said shooting Joey a sympathetic look. Poor kid, he had no idea what he had just signed up for?

**Hello second chapter is up! Dedicated to Aqua girl 007 my first reviewer! **


	3. Pegasus and Invitations

Over the course of the next two weeks we got back into normal routine we all glared a Kaiba when we saw him and I started swimming four times the week. When I wasn't training I was feeling sorry for Joey he had been training nonstop he fell asleep in class when Yugi woke him he had yelled.

"Trap cards!"

Well half of me felt sorry for Joey the other half was killing myself laughing, but can you blame me I mean Mr Stanton's face was priceless as he was in the middle of explaining how some angles had weird letters for different something or others… I AM RUBBISH AT MATH OK! Well shapes but who isn't! All I need is a calculator that can add, take away, multiply, divide and percentage.

Where was I? Oh yeah laughing at Joey.

After a particularly nastily training session, I headed back to see if I could catch the last of the regionals as I ran into the sitting room I heard Yugi cry.

"Your back," Yugi said as I flung my swim bag by the door and headed into the sitting room where Yugi, Joey, Tristan and Téa were all sitting looking at me.

"Yeah, and Miss Lou was brutal that woman is trying to kill me," I said. "Who won?" I said gesturing to the television knowing I had missed the finals.

"Weevil," Yugi said, I nodded I thought he would have.

"In all the excitement you forgot to open your package Yugi," Grandpa said. I saw the box and I instantly felt a bad vibe. Yugi opened it curiously; it was a video, a glove and two mini stars.

"Yug, I don't think that's a good idea," I said nervously.

"Relax it's just a video." Tristan said.

"Yeah, but… I dunno I don't want to watch it," I said feeling weird. "I have maths homework for tomorrow I need to do anyway." I said going up to my room as Yugi slotted the video in the player.

It took me ages to finish the maths but when I did Téa suddenly burst into my room.

"Téa what - ?"

"It's your grandpa," she said, I slammed down the pen before I could even begin my history essay and flew down the stairs behind her to see Yugi clutching the TV screaming "Grandpa!" over and over again. Then I saw him on the floor.

"Grandpa!" I yelled shaking his shoulders. "Grandpa!"

Téa called an ambulance but for some reason I felt as though that would do no good…

When we got back to the shop that night Yugi sighed.

"You know we are going to have to call my mom," he said, I winced Susan Muto nee Jones was a caring, kind woman when it came to her son. In fact she was a caring, kind woman with everyone… except me. She hated the fact she worked away, but cherished the time she had with Yugi when she was here. When it came to me on the other hand, she thought the look that you get when you've stepped in something disgusting was too good for me. She was forever telling Grandpa that he should take me to an orphanage and concentrate on Yugi. She made no effort to hide this feeling from anyone.

"Can we not call Adil," I asked biting my lip. Adil was Yugi's father he was a kind man with a warm heart. His name means noble and reserved which he was. He always treated me and Yugi fairly when he was here, even when he and Susan were arguing about it. I had always felt like it was my fault when his parents split and I had voiced this concern to both Adil and Grandpa.

While Grandpa had assured me that it was not the case. Adil had said.

"Now if you are going to think and say silly things then maybe we should cut out your silly tongue and brain and give you a new one." (Being 9 at the time I freaked out) then he said the same as Grandpa.

"We won't reach him he's said the ship was going near morocco they'll still be crossing the ocean to go back to the north after they picked up the materials. You know they are doing that research on that new volcano in the water near Japan and China. You know we can't get a hold of him till he gets to a port. Sorry Mana it's the only way."

"I know," I said smiling. Looking like he was handing himself over to the police, Yugi had to ring his mother and tell her she needed to come home for a while she wasn't happy, she agreed. She promised she would be there by tomorrow afternoon. This automatically made me nervous. She didn't make it quiet that she didn't like me and thought that I was just a waste of attention and money, and without her watching out for Grandpa this would get a whole lot worse.

Yugi squeezed my hand as we walked to school the next day by the time we returned she would be here. At lunch we filled the gang in about Susan.

"If you want while she's here you can stay with me," Téa said. "My sister has left for Chicago, I could ask mum now and have a response by the end of the day."

"Don't be silly," I said smiling while Yugi said.

"Thanks Téa that would be great, come on Mana it's not fair how she treats you." he said to me before I could protest.

"It feels so weird, knowing he isn't home," I said as we walked towards the shop.

"It's my fault," Yugi said.

"Don't say that," I said astonished he would even think that. "Pegasus tricked you, how were you supposed to know?"

He shrugged and went to open the door but he paused suddenly.

"What's that?" he asked looking at it curiously. There were two envelopes both filled with the same cards.

"There form Pegasus," he gasped flicking through the cards.

"Duellist kingdom," I whispered, then it all made sense that bastard was playing with us.

We opened the door past the shop to see Susan watching the TV she saw Yugi and beamed, it sank as she saw me.

"Your still here then?" She said coldly.

"Mom, leave her alone," Yugi said angrily.

"I'll go pack," I muttered running up the stairs, I could hear them arguing as I shoved my stuff in a bag. I hated making Yugi and his mom fight. It only took me twenty minutes. Adil would be here in a week's time so worst case scenario she'd be here for five days.

I came back down stairs I tried to sneak out but Yugi saw me and hugged me tightly.

"I'll see you tomorrow Mana," he said, I hugged him back and whispered bye.

Téa's house wasn't far I only had to walk a few blocks before I arrived I sighed and knocked on the door.

"Mana!" she said hugging me as soon as she saw me ushering me inside. I loved Téa's house every room had a theme to it. The sitting room was seaside gentle, the kitchen was red and white pokka dots, hall memories, photo's of Téa and her parents dotted everywhere occasionally between them you would see the cream wall behind, the small toilet under the stairs was a forest based room lots of tree's painted on the walls green long carpet on your feet making you way upstairs I had never been in Mr and Mrs Gardner's room so I didn't know the bathroom dolphins and finally Téa's room was yellow with lots of posters her green carpet. A spare mattress on the floor.

"Thanks again for doing this Yugi need's time with his mum anyway," I said.

"I just wish she'd be nicer to you," Téa said, I sighed me too.

"Well for tonight Susan and Yugi don't exist. What are we doing?" I asked her she grinned at me.

"Mana Muto I am giving you a makeover!" she squealed. I gulped, what was so bad about Susan again?

…

We all had a free first to discuss what had happened last night.

"A tournament a duellist kingdom, isn't that an island?" Téa said leaning behind Yugi to look at the cards. "So that's where Pegasus is keeping your Grandpa."

"Maybe," Yugi replied, "the only way to know for sure is for us to become contestants."

"The boat leaves in two days," I said pointing at the card.

"But you can't go, it could be dangerous," Téa argued.

"I have to –"

"We have to, Yugi." I said scowling at him he had been trying to stop me from going since he found out about it, saying to me it was too dangerous.

"I still can't believe it," Tristan said. "Pegasus used some weird spell to take your Grandpa's soul away. And now he's toying with you two forcing you to compete in the tournament!"

"He doesn't care about me," I said, "he has a millennium item, I've done lots of research on these things and a lot of people are drawn to their power, he'll probably want all seven of them." I said matter of factly.

"So he just wants Yugi's puzzle?" Téa said.

"It's just a theory," I said.

"What about us?" Joey said. "Without invitations we can't go with you. I wish we could help you guys."

"This is bad," Téa said, frowning at the boat card.

"Hey Yugi," Tristan said suddenly picking up one of the cards. "Check this out according to this card the winner gets three million dollars!"

"Three mill?" said Joey in awe.

"So what Tristan," Yugi said. "who cares about money at a time like this?"

"Hey give me that!" Joey said taking the card from Tristan and staring at it. "Ah three million,"

"Joey!" I snapped at him whacking him over the head.

"Three million in cold heart cash," he said ignoring my assault, there was a look in his eyes that made me suspicious he looked relieved; did he need this sort of money for something… or someone?

Everyone decided to go to Téa's to discuss this even further while everyone was cheering about the two weeks off, all I could think of was Grandpa and how we were going to get him back from Pegasus.

"Here you go kids," Mrs Gardner said putting a selection of party snacks and chopped fruit and veg in front of us.

"Thanks Mrs Gardner," Yugi and I said as Joey and Tristan began to eat the party rings and pringles, cheese and onion I snatched them from them.

I cleared my throat pointedly. They clicked and looked up.

"Thanks Mrs Gardner," they said together before eating around the healthy food, Mrs Gardner laughed before leaving us too it.

"What are you going to do?" Tristan asked.

"Well we have to days to come up with strategies from and for every angle," I said.

"And we have to trust in the heart of the cards and put everything Grandpa told us into practice," Yugi said looking at his deck determinedly.

Yugi and I spent the next two days packing and preparing to win the tournament to face Pegasus, if it came down to the two of us. Yugi had to win. Millennium item vs millennium item.

"So this is it," Yugi said after a 20 minute train ride to the coast. We were now cueing to get on the boat. Grandpa here we come, I thought.

"We'll win the two of us in the finals ready to face Pegasus." I said.

"Hey, you! Get out of here! Only official contestants are allowed on board!" we heard a security guard say.

"How do you known I'm not official." I heard a familiar voice.

"That's not…" I trailed off.

"Because official duellists aren't trying to sneak on board through the lower hatches," I could see two guards fighting to pull a familiar blonde haired, green jacket wearing figure away.

"Joey!" we both yelled running over to aid our friend.

"Stop struggling," the guard said. "Or we will have to throw you out,"

"No way, I came to duel and I'm gunna duel." Joey said fighting harder.

"Leave him alone," Yugi said as we got closer.

"Hey guys," Joey said.

"What are you doing here Joey," I said, he laughed.

"Do you really think I'd let you do this by yourselves. Come on help me out."

"He's with us you got to let him on," Yugi said.

"Only people with a starchip can get on board. There are no exceptions, understood," the other guard said.

"But Joey has a starchip," Yugi said.

"Didn't he tell you," he said holding out his hand.

"No, Yugi," I said. "I'll give him one, remember what we said." I said holding out one of my chips to Joey.

"All duelists have two starchips, you'll be at a disadvantage," guard one said, I shrugged.

"I'll still kick everyone's butt anyway and besides maybe this could work to my advantage." I said grinning. The first guard got out a mobile.

"Mr Pegasus," he said. I scowled grumbling in my head. "We got a problem sir," he said, he explained the situation, then there was a pause, we waited holding our breath.

"Go ahead," the guard said leading all three of us on board…


	4. Crossing the Sea

"I'm glad they let you on the boat Joey," Yugi said.

"Only cause Mana sacrificed one of her star chips for me. But if any of the other plays find out we have one star chips each, they could really try and take advantage of us."

"Then be quiet about it," I said making Yugi's laugh.

"Well what do we have here?" a woman said walking towards us as we all turned. Joey's jaw dropped. "So you're the Yugi kid everyone's talking about?" she said.

Joey just continued to drool. Idiot, I thought. Sure she was beautiful, but she seemed like she had an attitude. "But I am amazed that a squirt like you could beat Kaiba. Your famous you know."

I looked at my brother to see he was wearing the same expression! Boys! I groaned internally.

"Thanks very much I think," Yugi said blushing.

"Hey miss, I'm really good friends with the famous –" I elbowed Joey in the gut before he could finish his sentence.

"Mana!" he groaned.

"Look you're a champ or a chump, cut this guy lose he's fashion challenged and deserves to be crushed in the games."

"Who are you?" I said trying to keep my voice polite and my anger at bay.

"The names Mai," she said as she walked away.

"Ok stop drooling we should go and find our rooms." I said grabbing both their arms and dragging them away.

"What! "Look at the rooms!" Joey said. "There tiny!"

"You're lucky to even be here! Don't cause a problem, let's go for a walk. You coming Yugi?"

"Sure," he said.

"You coming or do I have to ask you to behave yourself in here," I said smirking. He ruffled my hair playfully. "Joey!"

"What you gunna do about it Mana," he said teasing.

"Yugi help me!" I grunted trying to escape Joey's grasp.

"Come one Joey let's see if we can find some food." Yugi said. Joey let go off me immediately causing me to topple to the floor. Both laughed at me as I got back up, scowling at them both we left.

We found the main area where lots of people were trading cards with each other.

"Hey aren't you that kid Yugi," a voice called, we turned, I was shocked to see it was Weevil Underwood who had called.

"Weevil and Rex the dino duellist." Joey said.

"You're cute," Rex said to me making me blush, but not out of flattery. Great one of those people, I thought.

"Congratulation on winning the regionals Weevil." Yugi said diverting the conversation, I squeezed his arm gratefully. "It was nothing," he said.

"Yeah I was going easy on him," Rex said. "Next time."

"To tell you the truth." Weevil said. "Winning the last championship didn't feel like much of an achievement. I guess I can't really call myself champion until I defeat the duelist who beat Kaiba. But I'm sure I'll end up battling you in the tornament, Yugi. Frankly, I look forward to it." His voice became more sinister at the end, I didn't like this guy.

"I look forward to it too." Yugi said.

"I'm looking forward to some dino demolition." Rex said.

"Let me tell you a little secret, it is something none of the other duellists know about the games yet."

"Isn't that cheating?" Yugi said nervously.

"The other duellist will find out soon enough. New rules on the island require more strategy." Weevil said.

"Ah, rules are for wimps. In duelling you yourself. It's one or the other." Rex said. Wow, his brain was size of dinosaurs.

"But you need other cards – " Joey started to say.

"Who asked you." Rex said walking away.

"Ignore him," said Weevil. "Let's talk about the championship. Check out those champs. They're already trading over there. Players are swapping cards and tinkering they're decks ready for the tournament. It's also a good chance to get a feel for your opponents cards."

Joey ran forward. "Who wants to trade," he said. I rolled my eyes bless him.

"Looks like Joey's trading," Yugi said.

"Come all this way and your still trying to improve your deck, you've got to be pretty desperate. I'll catch you on the flipside, Yugi." He said walking away.

"Everyone is in here or their rooms you want to look at the water," I said. Yugi laughed.

"You and your swimming," he chuckled I stuck my tongue out.

"Shut up," I pouted. "It's ancient Egypt's fault, remember that book I read about the Nile."

"Oh yeah you used to think if you swam you would be able to talk to those in the afterlife,"

We both laughed as we reached the sides, I watched as the waves crashed against the side. I wondered if my parents were still around, I couldn't remember anything earlier than living with Grandpa and Yugi.

"You ok, Mana, you zoned out."

"Did I ever tell you why I wanted to talk to those in the afterlife."

"No but I remember you always drawing the Egyptian Gods."

"It was to see if my parents were there or not. You know to see why I ended up with you guys," I said looking down.

"You never told us that," he said shocked.

"Yeah, well I overheard Grandpa telling a costumer that it was a cute phase I was going through as I came into the shop dresses as the rivers Goddess Nephthys."

"Mana I –"

"Hey I got some good trades in," Joey said we both jumped.

"Let us see!" I said excitedly quickly paying attention to Joey forcing Yugi to do the same as, he showed us his new cards.

"Cool, you've got salamandra, kuni with chai, baby dragon and shield and sword." Yugi said. "With these new magic cards combined with your monsters you'll have a really strong deck."

"Great, I'm ready to win every duel I play." Joey said.

"I think you're going to find it a little more difficult than that Joey," I laughed.

"Here," Yugi said, opening his puzzle/duel card box and taking out a card. "Add this to your deck. Mana gave you a star chip so I am going to help you keep it. This can be useful in a tight spot." He said handing him the card.

"Thanks Yugi," he said smiling.

"Ah we meet again," came a horribly familiar voice.

"Weevil," Yugi said.

"So did you trade any cards Yugi?" he said ignoring Joey and I.

"No I am going to use the cards I brought along with me."

"I figured as much. You used exsodia cards in your duel with Kaiba. Those are the strongest card of them all. Could I possibly see those legendary cards." Weevil asked.

"I don't see why not as long as you're careful with them." Yugi said pulling them out. I saw the look in Weevil's eye. I didn't trust him.

"Remember you look with your eyes not your hands," I said trying to joke.

"Relax Mana," Yugi said smiling at me. "Here," he said handing them to Weevil.

"So these are the cards to summon Exsodia. For a long time I have been trying to come up with a strategy to finally beat these cards. But I couldn't come up with anything. Until just this moment." I jumped forward knowing what he was about to do.

"No!" we all cried as he threw them over the side of the boat, I grabbed two as the rest fell into the ocean.

"Say goodbye to Exsodia!" Weevil cackled as he walked off laughing. "Now no one can challenge me!"

"Why you… Joey growled.

"My cards," Yugi said. "Grandpa gave me those,"

"I'll get um!" Joey said before diving into the water. That moron! This would be hard for me never mind him.

"Put these away and find a ladder I'll get doofus," I said as I dove over the side. I felt my body hit the water.

Cold! Cold! Cold!

"Joey!" I yelled trying to see him over the waves, the water flowing away from the boat made it harder not to stray too far away. I looked further out to try and find Joey I wasn't getting back on the boat without him. I knew I had to hurry I was struggling so he wouldn't last long. The light from the boat allowed me to see blonde hair about 10 metres away from me, I also saw a card I quickly grabbed it and shoved it in my bra. Kicking harder to stay up and get to Joey.

"Joey go back to the boat I'll find the rest!" I yelled over the crashing of the waves on the boat of course this send another wave pushing as further away.

"Hey I got one!" I heard him yell.

"Good pass it here and go back!" I yelled snatching it from him.

"Mana! What are you doing? It's too dangerous!"

"One more and I'll go, Joey you go back now!" I cried.

"No you go!" he yelled.

"Joey I have the training to last out here you don't, swim back to the boat right now before I drag you there losing that stupid card forever!" I yelled at him.

"Get back to the ship both of you!" I heard Yugi yell from the balcony we had just been on, I say Joey's head dip under the water.

"Joey! Boat! Now!" I yelled kicking harder as a wave attempted to put us under it.

"I can't punk out now. Serenity needs me." he said as he grabbed the final one.

"Right lets –"

Before I could finish my sentence a large wave crashed over the both of us submersing us under the water. I could faintly hear another splash from under the silent underwater. I groaned internally Yugi… I saw Joey and kicked us both back to the surface when we got there Joey went to sink again. He was knocked out cold.

Great.

"Yugi get our arse back on that boat, please tell me you found a ladder!" I screamed over the water.

"Yugi! Mana! Joey!" I heard Téa's voice yell, but Téa wasn't here… was she I looked up to see her and Tristan throw a ladder over board. I nodded for Yugi to swim back and began to swim back myself, Yugi swam luckily he was much closer than we were and by the time we were half way he was clutching the ladder. When I got there I hook Joey's arm around the ladder.

"Hold on with one arm and hold Joey with the other," I told him. "Don't let go of either. Do you understand?" Yugi nodded.

"If he falls yell for me and I'll get him! TRISTAN HELP! JOEY'S KNOCKED OUT!" I screamed loudly, as I saw his large coat and kicked off the side of the boat to get the extra push to go back to where I was without too much strain. I was already exhausted. Suddenly I saw a bright glow of light in the shape of a duelling card, exsodia's head right in front of me. I grabbed it and pushed back up to the surface as I stuffed the card with the other two. As I looked back at the boat I was Joey being lifted back over the side and Yugi hopping over too. I began to swim back to the ladder quickly as I saw Tristan lowering himself back down to come and get me.

"I'm here!" I yelled as I swam towards him. "Get back on the boat you moron I'm almost there!" Tristan hovered on the middle of the ladder watching me as I swam the last fifteen metres against the current to get back to the boat, I laughed in relief and sagged as my hand grabbed the ladder I began to climb. Much to the protest of my legs. As Tristan helped me back over the other side I saw Joey coughing up water, as Téa thumped his back.

"I'm glad you guys showed up. Really glad." Yugi said panting as I lay flat on my back watching my chest rise up and down dramatically. Miss, would be so proud when she heard what I had just swam.

"We're a team,' Téa said.

"I have the three cards here, please tell me that you put the other two away," I said, Yugi nodded, I handed him the other cards.

"I'm useless I didn't get them." Joey said.

"Hey you got two out of three," I said. "Joey I was struggling and you see how hard I have to swim to compete. Don't be so hard on yourself."

"I can't even save my sister Serenity, "he continued miserably.

"Serenity?" Yugi asked.

"Really you have a sister Joey," Téa said.

"Our parents divorced years ago. Mom took Serenity with her. They live in Ohio. My sister had really bad eyes from when she was born, eventually she'll go blind."

"I'm sorry Joey," I said sincerely.

"Thanks Mana, but she sent me a message, the doctors told her the time has come and soon her eyes will be impossible to repair even with surgery. There are specialists who could perform an operation now before it's too late. They could save her eyesight, but it'll cost two and a half million."

"Joey when one of us three win the price money it will go to Serenity, oh on one condition."

"Huh?"

"When she has recovered, me Téa and Serenity go on a shopping spree with the rest." I said grinning.

"I agree to those terms," Téa said grinning wider than I was.

"We will beat Pegasus, save our Grandpa and save your sister's eyesight." Yugi said.

"Piece of cake," I beamed.

"Look the island," Tristan said.

"That's duellist kingdom," Yugi said.

"Man this looks like a big place finding your Grandpa isn't going to be easy," Joey said.

"Well, we'll have to start somewhere," Yugi said.

"I'll help you guys get in, I don't have to get ten chips," I said.

"What why?" everyone said confused.

"I like for the fun besides Yug is the better of the two of us."

"I don't think that's true,"

"You're the one everyone wants to duel." I said. "And besides if I did make it to Pegasus you're more likely to win and figure out how to win, without your millennium item us lot don't stand a chance,"

"But – "

"Yugi you have to have confidence in your ability." I said hugging him. "If it wasn't for you and Grandpa I wouldn't have any confidence, you're the best brother anyone could ever ask for, and your one of the braves and smartest people I know."

"Thanks Mana."

"Don't mention it just remember that it's the truth." I said winking at him.

We all watched as the shore of duellist kingdom came closer and closer…


	5. Monolgues and Bug Boys

"Whoa, check out the suits," Joey said.

"Attention duellists, please disembark in an orderly fashion."

"Hey Téa," I heard Tristan said. "What if one of those security guys find out that were both stole ways. We should just swim back."

"Were in the middle of nowhere lame brain!" Téa hissed at him. "If you could just try and act normal for once we'll be ok."

"Come on then," I said smirking. We walked down to the bridge leading to the island shore. We were all of the boat without any trouble when.

"Hey you!" a guard yelled at Tristan we all turned around. Crap.

"Don't look so nervous. You guys are our guests here," he said kindly.

"That's right –" Tristan began but before he could do any damage I interrupted.

"Sorry, he has anxiety issues, this is his first tournament, come on Toby, it's fine I am sure you'll do really well," I said pulling him away from the boat.

"Good luck," the guys called after him.

"You moron, Tristan," I said looking at him in amusement.

"Welcome all duellists please follow the stairs to meet your host."

"The castle has got to belong to Pegasus." Yugi said.

"3 million on that's where he's keeping Grandpa," I said quietly, everyone nodded in agreement as we began to climb the stairs. We were half way up the stairs when Téa stopped.

"Huh, what's that?" she said, we all stared where she was.

"What do you see Téa," Tristan said.

"Bakura," she said.

"Bakura? Bakura from school?" Yugi said.

"Again with Bakura stuff," Tristan said.

"Where is he Téa?" Joey said.

"He's not there anymore; maybe it's all in my head."

"Come on were on a rescue mission, remember?" Tristan said.

When we finally got to the top we could hear two duellist talking nearby, so naturally, I decided to eavesdrop.

"Wow, look that Weevil Underwood he's the regional champion!" said the first boy.

"And that's the runner up Rex Raptor," said the second.

"And there's Mako Tsunami he was ranked third." The first boy called out. I listened closer wondering if Kaiba was in the crowd.

"Wow these are all the best duellists in the world, but where's the world champion Kaiba?" the second boy said.

"Didn't you hear? Some kid beat him, on his own turf too."

"Are you serious? I thought Kaiba was the best."

"He was, but not anymore, Yugi's supposed to be the kid to beat now."

Yugi blushed as some kids were talking about him, both Téa and Joey nudged him and Tristan was grinning at him. It seemed we were all eavesdropping.

"Attention duellist, please gather around, your benevolent –" I snorted, yeah right_ real_ benevolent. "– host is anxious to greet you all."

We all waited as he walked onto the balcony. Well I say he walked the camp bastard strode.

"Boy would I give to have five minutes alone with that guy." Joey trailed off angrily.

"Get in line," I growled as Pegasus looked straight at us.

"Greetings duellist, I am Maximillion Pegasus. It is my great honour and pleasure to welcome you to the duellist kingdom. You stand before me the world's greatest duellists."

And a few stole ways, I thought to myself.

"But come tournaments end only on shall be crowned king of games. I employ you all to ensemble your duelling decks with care. With creativity and with cunning" everyone was looking at their decks, but I continued to glare right up at Pegasus. "For this competition will test your skills like never before. To track your progress in the tournament you've each been given a duelling glove. You've also been given two precious starchips you must wager these starchips –" Yugi and I put our gloves on. "On each duel you compete in to advance to the final level of competition to win the three million dollar prize. You must win ten star chips. Ten star chips will gain you entry to my castle where you'll –" Jesus will you shut up already "-face me in one final duel. This will be a tournament unlike anything you have ever experienced. State of the art duelling arena's cover this entire island and interesting new duelling rules will be in effect. I could tell you what these new rules are, but what fun would that be." Wow he really loves hearing himself talk. "You'll discover them as you compete or you won't last very long. Remember play boldly, think strategically and duel mercilessly. You have one full hour to prepare both your cards and yourself when the sky lights up with fireworks the duels will begin." He said lifting his arms in the air.

Finally he shut up! I thought we were going to spend the two days listen to him blather on. Everyone around us began to cheer.

"Come on let's try and find an arena," I muttered, Yugi nodded and we all set off. I couldn't stand looking at Pegasus for one more minute. Walking through the island we stopped to talk in a beautiful little Meadow.

"Mana, I dunno if I can win this thing, maybe you should take your star chip back."

"Nah you keep it, your little sisters counting on you to win the tournaments prize money for her."

"Thanks Mana," he said.

"You can do it; you've just got to stay clear of the more experienced duellists at first." Téa said.

"Yeah it's just a matter of working your way up," Tristan said.

"Thanks you guys," Joey said.

"Besides having one star chip is an advantage for me," I said.

"How?"

"Because some idiots think that girls are easy so it will just make those idiots more likely to duel me. Confirm it in their heads."

"That's sneaky," Téa said.

"Hey, psychology is half the game," I said as fireworks shot from the sky.

"The fireworks," Téa said. "It's starting,"

"Let's go it!" Yugi cried excitedly. We began to walk hoping to come across some duellists soon.

"So what's your plan Yug?" Joey said.

"I think Weevil should get a taste of his own medicine," I said

"We do have a score to settle, even if I got the cards back." Yugi said.

"Alright!" Joey said grinning. "I was hoping you were going to say that!"

"Isn't that him?" Téa said, making us all look ahead and she was right, he was just on the outskirts of the forest.

"Weevil!" Yugi yelled. "I challenge you to a duel!"

Weevil cackled and speed into the forest, I quickly began to chase after him. That little worm, I thought angrily as I heard the others running behind me. As we continued to run a swarm of moths appeared from the side covering my face from the pests I thought about Weevil, why would he run? Then I remembered what he said on the boat about new rules… The island is covered in different habitats! Of course each monster has a field it would be best on; it must add points to its attack and defence or something. Finally the forest broke into a small break in the trees.

"There he is!" Joey yelled as he ran behind me.

"Welcome, said the spider to the fly. You flew right into my trap! Again!" he cried.

"It's time you answered for what you did on the boat Weevil," Yugi said, I noticed his puzzle began to glow and a weird taller person who looked like Yugi but didn't. I had never seen this person before… Wait! Wasn't the puzzle a home to an ancient spirit! Well that's what the legends said. Maybe this was him? I had to admit he was very handsome and he seemed to ooze confidence, but the others didn't seem to notice the change.

"Huh, alright Weevil," he said, wow that voice was so strong, so rich, it was full of power. "Time to find out if you are as good at duelling as you are at running away."

"Was I simply running away or cleverly weeving you into my web."

"It's time to duel." The spirit said.

"As you wish!" he shrieked as the ground began to shake.

"Argh it's an earthquake!" Tristan yelled as a perfect neat line split from the ground. Duelling arena I thought as the ground continued to shake.

The arena showed itself.

"It's gigantic," Téa said as the hologram projectors set into place.

"Man, these aren't going to be like the duels back home," Joey said staring at the arena.

"You just stepped into a hornets nest and there's no way out!" Weevil shrieked again, argh he needed to stop with the bug puns.

"What is that?" said the spirit.

"These giant arenas must be set up all over the island," Tristan said.

"I'll meet you on the field." Weevil said jumping onto the red players box as the spirit walked to the blue.

"I don't like this, Weevil seems a little too cocky," Joey said, I nodded in agreement.

"Once you're gone everyone else's chips will be easy pickings." Weevil said.

"Not if I take your two first," the Spirit said.

"Swat that little twerp like a mosquito," Joey yelled. Other duellist began to arrive.

"That's Weevil Underwood, but whose the other guy?" this kid said.

"That guy is Yugi Muto," Joey said. "He beat Kaiba and I happen to be his best friend Joey Wheeler. And these three, these three are nobodies." I rolled my eyes at him.

"I thought I wouldn't be see a Weevil, Yugi match till the finals."

"Weevils the regional champ, no way some new kids got a chance against him."

"Well Yugi, my adoring public is waiting so we should begin."

"Duel!" they both said together as the life points appeared on the side of their boxes.

As the duel continued it looked like Yugi/Spirit nearly lost but he always pulled through, even when Weevil played the great moth and he still won. That Mai woman showed up irritating me and Téa. At one point Joey made a link between Yugi being like another person. I noticed the Spirit had a scary soft laugh.

They both came down I couldn't keep the smug look of my face as Mai admitted she was wrong.

"But I'm the regional champion," Weevil cried. "The regional champion!"

"You call yourself a champion Weevil, but you only won your duels through lying and cheating. True champions play with honour," he said as he threw the stars lightly in his hand. "They play fair." He said as he clenched his hand.

"Aargh don't waste your breathe on this sneaky slug he's a duelling disgrace," Joey said. "And I hereby relive him of his duelling glove." Removing the glove from his wrist, as we walked away I noticed Yugi return. I looked at the puzzle suspiciously; maybe like Pegasus's eye it had powers? But if an ancient spirit inhabits Yugi's artefact will he help Yugi or will he be a danger to him?

**To Mana's Madness its Yami and Mana pairing. **

**Do you like how she realises immediately? I do not understand it. It's so freakin' obvious as the abridge series says 'super awesome ultra-sexy transformation sequence go!' (maybe slightly wrong that's off top of my head. If you haven't seen it, watch it even I die hard yugioh fan like me can laugh at them.)**

**Till next time!**


	6. Proving Points

"Ok, bring um on, I'm itching to duel and I'm taking on the next player we see," Joey said running to the cliff.

"You know I'm not sure if Joey's up to this," Téa said.

"Yeah, there are tournament level players here, don't you think he's smart enough to realise –"

"Here I stand the next duel monsters champion!" he cried over the side of the cliff he was on, we all groaned.

"He needs a reality check," Téa said.

"He's about as smart as he looks," Tristan said.

"He'll be fine, he has us to help him out." I said staring at him, he looked deep in thought which was not a normal look for Joey, we all walked up behind him, and Tristan sat down crossed legged.

"Look there!" Téa said as we all heard a roar of cheering.

"Duel monster stadiums," Tristan said. "Look at them, there all over."

"You said it, lots of duelling going on," Yugi said.

"Right," Joey said. "I'm going in."

You sure you want to do this you lose and you give up your only star chip." Tristan said.

"That's right," Téa said as Joey fell to the floor.

"Don't panic," Yugi said.

"Yeah, get up idiot," I said laughing at him.

"You can do this Joey," Yugi said. "You do know that don't you?"

"I hope your right Yugi. This will be my first official duel and I can't afford to get knocked down at the start."

"True," Yugi said. "But not everybody here is a pro, I'm sure you can find someone here on your level."

"Go for someone easy Joey," Téa said.

"Er, then I guess I should think about what kind of field my cards are best suited for." He said looking at his cards I looked at him in approval, he was showing strategy. "There mostly monster and fighter types, er, I guess this makes this meadow field my kind of turf."

"That's right Joey," Yugi said. "See you know what you're doing."

"You lost cry baby now give me your star chips," I heard a horribly familiar voice laugh.

"A voice that annoying can only belong to Mai," Téa said, as Mai began to laugh again as she put her star chips in her glove. We all headed over, I would be very happy to knock her out if I had enough chips.

"Wow, Mai's already won two more star chips," Joey said.

"Hey Yugi, are your duels going well," she asked when we were close enough.

"I'm making progress," he said as she grabbed his hand to examine his glove.

"So you have four star chips do you. I might be up for a duel myself."

Téa whispered something in Yugi's ear and I had a good idea of what it probably was.

"Hmm you know I'm defiantly in a mood for a duel right not, so get ready cause I choose to challenge, you Joey." She said pointing at him.

"What? You challenging me?" he said shocked.

"Get it, I wanna play you kid," she said.

"Ha, I guess you heard about my skill," Joey said.

"Don't flatter yourself," she said. "I overheard you, Yugi and er…" she looked at me pointedly.

"Mana," I said.

"Right, I heard you three talking about how she gave you your only star chip you have, my motto is take out the weaker players first," she said winking at him. "And considering that you wouldn't be here if it wasn't for Mana hadn't given you one of her chips you've got to be _thee_ weakest duellist on the island."

"Hey do you have to be so insulting," Joey grumbled.

"This time she was being truthful," Téa said, Joey made a shocked cry. "Mai's ruthless don't duel her first."

"Don't you get it, if you lose this contest your out for good." Tristan said.

"Yugi stand up for Joey," Téa said. "You have to fight her in his place."

Yugi looked between Mai and Joey.

"This is his decision to make, show Mai what you're made off," Yugi said to him.

"Right, she thinks that I'm a push over, but she'll see." Joey said.

"Yugi!" Téa said looking at him.

"You can't be serious Joey!" Tristan said to him.

"I've never been more serious," Joey said. "Don't you see this is my big chance to prove myself. To show everybody. Don't forget Gramps trained me. I mean sure he didn't get to finish my training and granted I wish –"

"You'll do your best and win or lose that's all you can do," I said before he could panic himself.

"I accept, let's duel." He said to Mai.

"Get ready to lose." She said. They got into position.

"Go get her Joey," Téa cheered.

"Kick her butt," Tristan said.

"Yeah," Joey said as the duel box reached the top.

"Hey miss," I heard a voice behind me, we all turned to see a kid.

"What?" I said wondering why he was interrupting.

"You, me, duel in that ring there," he said showing me a ring about one hundred metres away.

"Sorry, I am cheering my friend." I said.

"We're duelling you can't not accept a challenge," he said.

"Hey punk you better leave her alone," Tristan said.

"I'm only asking her to duel, don't worry she won't be long. It's not hard to beat a chick."

"That's it," I said furiously. "Joey I won't be long I am going to teach this kid a lesson," I said before I stormed off to the arena.

"Please you've already lost one star chip." He sneered. I grinned that gave me an idea.

It felt weird going up in those little boxes but I kept my cool. I was going to teach this kid a lesson.

"Ok then as it is so easy to beat a girl how about winner takes all." I said innocently.

"Fine," he said indifferently, I grinned internally, I'd teach him not to judge by the cover… or gender.

"Duel," we both said drawing cards. Ok I had scapegoat, dancing fairy, harpie girl, fire sorcerer and Erica water charmer, I drew Harpie lady.

"Ok I play Harpie Girl in attack mode," I called to him in a bubbly girly voice.

He smirked arrogantly.

"Figures," he said. "I play mammoth graveyard attack!"

I had 1300 life points left.

"Oh no," I cried, argh I felt like such an idiot! I drew graceful charity, this could come in useful in a while.

"Ok I play Princess of Tsurgi in attack mode end my turn."

He laughed. "That's still weaker attack mammoth,"

1000 life points, I draw again Dark Magician Girl!

"Ok I, er, I play Erica the Water Charmer in defence mode," I said putting it in attack mode.

"You've put it in attack position." He said laughing.

"What oh I mean," I went to change it.

"You can't change till next turn." He said, "Mammoth attack."

300 life points left.

"Ok this is where I begin to kick your ass," I said dropping the girly voice. Drawing my next card Fairy's Gift.

"Please," he snorted.

"I play Dancing Fairy in defence mode and place one card face down. I also activate graceful charity allowing me to draw three cards and discard two. I drew three cards Aqua Spirit, mischief of time Goddess and Malevolent Nuzzler. I discarded Aqua Spirit and Harpie Lady. "That will end my turn."

"I play Battle ox and attack your Dancing Fairy." He said.

"Not so fast I activate scapegoat!" I said flipping over the card. "Now one of my goats takes the hit rather than my dancing fairy."

"Yeah, yeah then I attack with my mammoth taking two of your goats."

"Ok so you end your turn that means I get 1000 life points thanks to dancing Fairy's special ability."

"What!"

"You heard me and now I draw," I got dust tornado, this could be useful. "I play Dark Magician Girl in attack mode and increase her power with Malevolent Nuzzler so her attack power is now 2700. Dark Magician Girl, attack his mammoth with dark magic attack!" I said. I grinned as this knocked his life points down to 500. His face was priceless.

"You're done, I play Mischief of time Goddess causing you to miss a go now attack his battle ox Dark Magician girl, destroying the rest of his life points!"

The hologram blasted his battle ox and took his life points to zero.

"Now I believe you owe me two star chips." I said holding out my hand as we were lowered down.

He grumbled but gave them to me.

"I hope you've learnt not to presume a player's strength on their gender." I said.

"You played me," he said frowning.

"No, I copied you assumption, I would have played like I did from the beginning if you hadn't made that whole girl comment."

"Thanks your right." He said, holding out his chips before walking away, I ran over to the duel taking place next to me to see there were no more holograms and both duellist were back on the ground. I ran over as fast as I could.

"I am so sorry Joey did you win?" I said looking at everyone. Joey grinned.

"You bet I did," he said.

"That's great Joey." I said smiling. "You'll have to tell me about it later tonight,"

"Yeah lets go find another duel." Tristan said.

"How did your duel go Mana?" Téa asked. I grinned holding up my glove.

"I taught that kid a lesson or two." I said grinning as we walked side by side into the forest.

"Woowee!" Joey yelled excited. "Two star chips this is awesome I can't believe it happened am I cool or what!"

"What," I said teasingly grinning at his excitement upset that I had missed it.

"Is there a time limit on how long he gets to crow," Téa said crossing her arms.

"Cut him some slack Téa," Tristan said. "Did you ever thinks that Joey would have beat Mai in a duel I mean Joey who would have thought."

"I knew he could do it," Yugi said. "I'm really proud of you Joey."

"Yeah," he said before his stomach gave a loud rumble. "All that duelling made me hungry,"

"Joey you barely move your hand that can't make you hungry." I said laughing at him.

"Did any of you remember to bring food with you?" Joey asked, ignoring me.

"Sorry Joe," Téa, Yugi and Tristan all said.

"I have some but not enough for all of us." I said gesturing to my backpack.

Joey groaned. "What were we thinking coming here with no food. How are we ever going to get through the rest of the competition without anything to eat!"

"That's a good question Joey," Yugi said. "I haven't seen any burger stands or restaurants since we got here."

"Well we better do something fast." Téa said. "I've got to have my five basic food groups or it's metabolic meltdown." She sounded panicked as she put her hands on her hips. I rolled my eyes.

"Téa you can live without a few days it won't make you fat," I said.

"Hey chill out you guys I got it covered." Tristan said.

"Yeah," all three of them said.

"Check it out the great outdoor survival guide." He said taking it out of his bag. The three groaned but I laughed.

"Can we eat it?" Joey said.

"So you didn't bring any food but you brought that." I said amused.

"We were sneaking on board what if they had dogs,"

"That is actually really good thinking." I said smiling. Tristan grinned at my complement.

"It lists all the plants, roots, berries and grasses we can eat." He said flicking through it.

"Do I look like a squirrel to you?" Joey said yelled before he sniffed the air. "I don't need your stupid book anyhow I smell something cooking thata way!" he ran towards the ocean.

"He's hallucinating," Téa said her hands on her hips again.

"Don't be so sure you know it wasn't his brain that beat Mai it was his nose." Tristan said.

"Huh?" I said confused.

"I'll explain later." Yugi said before we all began to run to try and catch up with our group moron before he did something stupid. Like steal people's food.

_**Hi I have a hard core feminist deck and the card I haven't got I drew so I had Mana's deck, I drew so it was like a real game, I thought it would be an interesting twist. With the odd heart of the cards thrown in if there is I will put it in this bit where I explain and thank you guys! The first duel was just a bloody good shuffle on my part :P **_


	7. Kidnapped

When we finally saw him we saw the three fish sticking out in a fire.

"Aw man I just love barbeque fish," Joey said.

"Smells good," Tristan agreed.

"Yeah I bet it tastes even better," Joey said as he ran towards it, laughing as he went.

"What makes you think that fish is yours to eat." Téa said furiously towards Joey.

"Hey trust me eat first ask questions later, your stomach'll thank me." he said, chuckling before moving closer.

"Joey! Oh he'll say anything to fill his belly," Téa said half amused half irritated.

"Some people have no self-control," Tristan said with his arms crossed and nose pointing in the air.

3…2…1…

"Joey save some for me!" he yelled jumping from behind the rock to meet him. Téa and I sighed simultaneously.

"I don't want to watch this train wreck I am off, good luck guys," I said.

"Mana," Yugi said looking up at me.

"Relax, I'll meet you back here in an hour alright?" I promised. "We have to get in that castle now we have little food even quicker."

"It does sound like a good idea," Téa said. "You sure you don't want one of us to go with you?" she asked. I shook my head.

"Keep these two in line, I'll be fine." I said walking back inwards to find an opponent. I didn't have to wait long.

"Hey, you wanna duel!" I kid yelled, I turned to look at him.

"Sure," I said smiling.

"Two chips?"

"Sure I have three," he said, we got into positions to duel.

"Ladies First," he said.

"Thanks," I said as I drew my cards. Prickle fairy, mirror force, elemental magician, fire sorcerer, bio mage I drew and got pot of greed. Ok good hand. "I'll kick things off by playing elemental magician in attack mode, and I also place one card face down. Your move."

"Alright." He said drawing a card. "I play alien warrior in attack mode now attack her elemental magician."

"Not so fast I play mirror force," I said activating my trap card forcing him to weaken his own monster to 900 attack points.

"I play one card face down and end my turn," he said.

"Alright my go," I said drawing gift of mystical elf. That could come in handy later. "Now I play one card face down in defence mode then I activate pot of greed allowing me to draw two cards." I said gaining the all-seeing white tiger and dreamstprite.

"Alright, I put my alien warrior in defence mode and play alien overlord to attack her element magician!" he said. My mirror wall bounced up knocking his alien overlord back and losing half its attack points.

"Sorry permanent trap, unless you know how to defeat it and you have the right cards," I said, before drawing. Yes fissure this could come in handy.

"Alright I flip over my face down monster revealing fire sorcerer now by discarding two of the cards in my hand I can take 800 of your life points directly. I place bio mage and my all seeing tiger into the graveyard taking his life points down to 1200. "I'll play two cards face down and attack your alien overlord," my elemental magician look out his monster making his life points drop down to 800. "I end my turn." I called.

"You're good I have to admit," he said smiling, drawing another card. "I play mysterious triangle this allows me to destroy your fire sorcerer and then summon a level four alien monster and I choose alien shocktrooper." Oh dear 1900 attack points I needed a powerful monster to beat that.

"Ok my go," I said drawing aqua spirit. No she was too weak. "I play dreastprite in defence mode and that will end my turn."

"On the defence, alright I play one card face down and then end my turn." He said. I drew again come on I need something good. Graceful charity sure that'll help.

"I play graceful charity," I said drawing three cards. Mystical space typhoon, Erica the water charmer and black pendant," Yes that would help, that would help a lot, I discarded prickle fairy and aqua spirit. "I summon Erica than sacrifice her to play familiar possessed Erica then by using black pendant I raise her attack points to 2350 attack points. I also play my mystical typhoon card to destroy your face down card then attack your alien shocktroper.

He looked at me shocked he only had 350 life points left, he sighed and placed his hand over his deck.

"Are you sure?" I said.

"Yeah, here take the star chips there yours now," he said as we were lowered back to ground he walked over to me handing me the chips. "Besides I still have one left." He said grinning.

"My greatest opponent yet," I said offering my hand, he shook it, before walking away. Smiling I checked my necklace watch, I had another 15 minutes before I had to be back I began a slow walk…

I saw them all waving at the ocean confused I moved closer. There was a man was swimming out into the ocean as the four of them watched him. I noticed the Spirit had returned.

"Wish he'd bring us back some fish." Tristan said.

"We'd have to duel him again," he Spirit said making the other three laugh.

"What happened?" I asked curiously.

"Forget about it," Joey said as we all walked away.

"But guys I'm getting seriously hungry," Joey whined.

"Not a problem we still have my great out door survival guide." Tristan said making the Spirit laugh. I noticed he had a rich baritone laugh that made me feel warm and safe… don't be stupid! I scolded myself.

"No way!" Téa said laughing.

"Yeah, Tristan eat all the pages you like," Joey said making us all laugh as we ventured back into the forest.

"Wow Yugi I can't believe you've already won six star chips, plus Mana's were almost there." Téa said.

"Ready to save you're Grandpa," Tristan said smiling at us.

"I wish I had more star chips," Joey said.

"Oh here take this," I said handing him two chips. "And don't worry about it remember our deal on the boat." I said winking at him. "Yug, I'll give you more tonight." I said smiling.

"Help!" we heard someone yell. We all stopped to listen.

"What was that?" Tristan said.

"Help me! Somebody please!" they yelled again. "Argh let go of me somebody help me!" we began to run to try and help this person and as we did we saw the guys with the weird hair that told us to climb the stairs to the castle earlier.

"We're coming," Tristan yelled. Spike turned around, we could see the kid in his arms. Tristan ran at him his fists ready.

"Let that kid go!" Tristan yelled.

"You heard him needle head, put the kid down." Joey said

"What do you think you're doing?" Yugi said angrily.

"This is none of your business," said the guy. "This duellist has lost his starchips – "

"That doesn't mean you can manhandle him." I said.

"But I didn't lose my star chips they were stolen from me, my cards too!"

"I don't care what lame excuse you have kid, you need star chips to duel and you haven't got any so your shipping out of here, those are the rules."

"But if he lost his chips he can take some of mine." Yugi said.

"Not allowed," he said turning to walk away.

"Follow him?" I suggested.

"Oh yeah," Tristan said.

We began to run behind him far enough so that he wouldn't see us, he was going to pay for this.

"Hey," Yugi yelled as we got close to the boat. "Hey you!"

"You again." The hair dude said.

"What did the guy who took your star chips look like?"

"Well I couldn't see his face it was covered with a bandana, but he was a little guy. Challenged me in the Meadow."

"He challenged you to a duel?"

"Yeah but as soon as I put my star chips and duel deck down, he snatched them up and ran off with them."

"You shouldn't be shifted off the island for that." Yugi said. "We'll get your star chips back."

"This boat leaves in exactly 30 minutes anyone without a star chip ships out."

"We'll get his star chips back by that time," Téa said, holding the collar of her top.

"We won't let you bully him out of the tournament," Tristan said.

"No we'll catch that little thief and bring him to justice, believe me kid you can count on us," Joey said.

"But who are you guys?" he asked I covered Joey's mouth before he could say something stupid.

"We're wasting time we'll be back in half an hour," I promised before running back to where we meet him, everyone else followed behind me. When we got back to the meadow we sat down for a moment.

"Ok we need to put our heads together," Yugi said.

"Add Joey's brain and you have to subtract one." Tristan said, as we sat down a kid jumped from behind the bushes.

"I've found you Yugi," he said.

"That must be the kid we're looking for." Joey said.

"That's Mokuba," I gasped.

"How did you know?" he said. "Well it doesn't matter. Thanks to you my brother's gone and Pegasus is trying to take over Kaiba Corp."

"Pegasus wants Kaiba Corp." Yugi said.

"You can't blame Yugi for that Mokuba," I said.

"He ran away because of Yugi and then Pegasus walked right in cause the Kaiba executives invited him to some sort of private meeting."

We'll help you," I said. "We'll help you beat Pegasus." The look Mokuba gave me next shocked me it was one of grief. I blinked, as I looked at him again his expression was normal. Did I imagine it?

"Let's get back to the boat before that boy is shipped away," Téa said.

"Hang on, if Pegasus captured Mokuba then we shouldn't take him to those morons, I'll stay here with him, you guys go." I said with one hand on his shoulder.

"That is a very good idea," Téa said.

"Thanks Mana," Mokuba said.

"No problem," I said warmly. As they left I spoke again. "You want to sit down there?" I suggested. Mokuba nodded and sat leaning against the large tree.

"Why did you guys want to beat Pegasus so much?" he asked me.

"Well he took my Grandpa's soul, so the only way to get it back as ridiculous as it sounds is to duel him. If we win Pegasus will release his soul. If not…" I said trailing off not wanting to think about it.

"I'm sorry," Mokuba said looking down. "Where is your mum and dad?"

"Well I guess Kaiba hasn't told you, I am not technically a Muto, Grandpa adopted me, Susan – Yugi's mum – didn't like that. You see he didn't call her to ask if she thought it was a good idea for Yugi. I think that's why she doesn't like me, because she has no control of me being there and maybe because she thinks with two of us, Grandpa will let things that happen to Yugi slip because we may need him at the same time. Yugi's dad's cool though, the first time he came back to visit he laughed and said 'I always wanted a little girl too.'" I said smiling at the memory, I looked at Mokuba his eyes were wide.

"What about your parents?"

"I dunno, I can't remember anything before I met Yugi and Grandpa." I said. Sometimes I felt guilty about that, but I suppose I can't really feel responsible for that. I was shock as Mokuba hugged me, but I hugged him back.

"How long do you think it'll take?" Mokuba asked me.

"I'm not sure but they won't be too long." I said smiling. "Don't worry Yugi's going to kick Pegasus's butt."

"Thanks Mana, you're really cool." Mokuba said smiling. We heard a rustling in the tree's beside us, pulling him from the hug I forced Mokuba behind me.

"Whose there," I demanded. "Show yourself!"

Kemo.

"Thought you could escape Mokuba," he sneered.

"Run!" I yelled to him. "I'll hold them off. Do it Mokuba!" I was relieved when he did it. I punched the closest suit and followed Mokuba. I could hear their footsteps behind me I tried to move faster. Suddenly large fingers were wrapped around the top of my arm.

"RUN MOKUBA RUN!" I screamed struggling to try and stop the rest of them from chasing him. I punched him in the face and ran after the other goons.

"You go after the kid," Kemo yelled to one of the goons. "Everyone else keep her under control!"

I felt multiple hands garb me forcing me to the floor as I watched the last goon run in the direction Mokuba travelled. "Tie her up, gag and blind fold," he said. "She's less likely to try anything."

"Don't you dare!" I screamed before they gagged me. I still continued to try and talk, squirming as they wrapped the ropes around me. Once I was barely able to move, Kemo smiled.

"Don't worry your friends know where to meet us." He said laughing. I groaned Yugi…

Yugi's POV

I sighed it was a shame that we were too late for the boy, I wished there was more I could do.

"Where's Mana and Mokuba?" Joey said I noticed a letter by the tree I walked over and pulled it off.

_All of you meet us here when the sun begins to fall. Don't be late or you'll never see Mana again. _

"Guys Pegasus he's taken them!" I said showing them the note.

"Oh no!" Téa said horrified.

"They'll pay for this!" Joey angrily, punching the tree.

"I can't believe we left them alone," Tristan regretfully, I looked down at the note again. Hoping my sister was ok…

_**Hi guys sorry I've been gone so long, I was in South Africa building so I have a good excuse, hope you enjoy! I thought I made more sense for someone to stay with Mokuba and not go to give the kid back his chips. I mean Pegasus kidnapped him why would they hand him back to the goons! Sigh, well they got him anyway. **_


	8. Ghost Kaiba

"Yugi over here!" I heard Mokuba yell, I wished I could see them, I wish I could yell out. "Get him off me!" Mokuba said; I so badly wanted to help him. The last what I was guessing few hours had been horrific, I could hear Mokuba struggling against our abductors and the captors themselves making comments about how Yugi would come and fall into the trap Pegasus had set for him, I couldn't back answer because of my gag, but I made sure I was heard, I could still scream. This had been a mistake, as once refused to be quiet when they yelled at me to be, the took Mokuba and left me in the room alone to worry.

"Mokuba," I heard the familiar deep voice of the spirit. "Put him down. Where is Mana? Where are you keeping her!" his voice was so demanding. When he asked about me shivers went down my spine. Wait what? No bad Mana!

"I'll consider it if you win the duel, the girl is right here," he said clicking his fingers I felt hands grip the top of my arms and lift me from the floor, I tried to struggle.

"Yugi!" I tried to yell but it came out a muffled yell.

"Mana!" I heard everyone cry.

"Release her now!" the spirit bellowed. I tried to yell Yugi's name again.

"Let her go!" Joey snarled.

"When the duel is done we'll let her go," Kemo said calmly.

"At least put her on the floor you're hurting her," Téa said anxiously.

"Very well lets duel," the Spirit said grimly.

"I never said I would duel, there is your opponent," he said. "He's an old friend dying to see you again, he met with an unfortunate end earlier today but he's come back just to duel you. "Rip off her blindfold." He said to one of the goons I looked around to see Kaiba on the platform.

Kaiba was dead…Bullshit I didn't believe a word.

"What are you saying," Mokuba said, everyone else made a confused sound.

"Kaiba," the spirit said looking up at him.

"Yes Yugi," said the fake. "It's me Kaiba," it looked up. "This time you don't stand a ghost of a chance." He said and chuckled under his breath.

"Yeah cause this time he really is a ghost." Kemo said.

"Stop it Kemo," Mokuba said.

"It's true two witnesses saw him fall to his doom,"

The spirit gasped, soon followed by the rest of the gang.

"Liar!" Mokuba yelled. "Take back what you said!"

"Get used to it all that's left of Kaiba are your memories plus a very cranky ghost looking for revenge,"

"It's not him," the Spirit said confidently.

"Well he's seen better days, but now it's time to duel with the ghoul."

"It can't be this guy's nothing but a fake. A trick by Pegasus," the Spirit continued. "Don't worry Mokuba I'll win your freedom then we'll find your brother." I tried to agree but it came out an untranslatable muffle. They got ready to duel.

"Yugi you look like you've seen a ghost," the fake said. I snorted through the gag, how many times were they going to use that lousy pun this was as bad as Weevil, if not worse!

"That's enough," the Spirit said firmly.

"I am no longer of this world and it's all because of you." it said, the Spirit grunted, but the fake continued on. "I could've had it all but when you beat me you took more than just the match you stole my life and destroyed my soul."

"Your nothing but an imposter so stop the lies and lets start the duel."

"Fine with me," Fake Kaiba said, "this time you won't beat my cards."

"You might look like Kaiba, but there"s no way to imitate his deck."

"You mean my deck," it said. The Spirit growled.

"Beat him Yugi; he's nothing but a fake." I nodded in agreement with Mokuba.

"Yeah, that ghost doesn"t even look like Kaiba," Joey cried.

"That's right," Téa said. "Wait I mean it's not a ghost and it's not Kaiba."

"Get him Yugi!" Tristan yelled, the Spirit nodded at them, then looked at me, his eyes fixed on mine for a moment. His eyes suddenly flickered to the fake as thought he had spoken to him directly.

"Kemo once I beat Yugi, Pegasus can have Kaiba corporation all I want is revenge three star chips say I win,"

"Fine by me that means when the duel is over I'll have 9." He said, making me attempt to cheer; I guessed it had been half way understood by tone if anything.

"Be quiet!" Kemo snapped kicking me onto my side.

"Don't touch her!" I heard Joey yell, but I couldn't see him, it tried to get back up to my bum, shuffling to see again.

"Lets duel," the fake said above him causing the life points to show on the side.

The fake Kaiba played the same card the real Kaiba did in their first game, freaking out the Spirit a bit and worrying Mokuba.

"Just because he played the same card doesn't mean it's the same deck," Joey yelled trying to support Mokuba, I shot him a grateful look.

The knock off played Blue eyes which unnerved a lot of us, it was impossible. Then I thought this is Pegasus he wants to trick us he would have stolen Kaiba"s deck. I tried to protest my hands tied in front of me so I wrote in the soil.

_Stole cards Kaiba escape no way the git would be that easy to get rid of _

I nudged Mokuba's foot he looked down and read the message, he smiled.

"Mana's right, they stole Seto's deck before he escaped!" Mokuba yelled.

"You! Quit trying to communicate," one of the goons snapped as he bent down to tie my wrists to my ankles making it harder to write.

"Let go off her!" I heard Tristan yell.

"When the duel is over you can have her," he sneered as the knots were fastened. I tried to comfort Mokuba nudging my head against his leg.

"Not the real Kaiba," I tried to say but it came out "nomthmrwwwkabbbaa"

"Be quiet!" the goon yelled lifting me but the ties putting all the pressure in my wrists and ankles making me scream.

"Let her go now!" The Spirit bellowed furiously.

"Poor choice of words," he sneered, I closed my eyes as he let go bracing myself with impact against the ground.

"Ow!" I yelped in pain glaring at the goon who dropped me. Right on the tail bone that was going to hurt for days, all my friends growled.

"Try and grab her and she'll be in serious trouble," Kemo said, still holding Mokuba. "And we'll just take Mokuba away now. That is the order; they go for the girl we take the boy."

The duel continued there were so close calls; the real Kaiba stepped in, destroying a blue eyes and caused the fake to reveal his true appearance and let me tell you boys and girls. It was not a sight to behold. Though he hadn't been lying when he was Kaiba, he was the part the Spirit sent to the Shadow Realm. The spirit won the match with taking a blue eyes from the graveyard and increasing its strength with the mystical elf's attack points. At the moment the clown wannabe's life points fell to zero I felt a weird warmth flow through me to my wrists and ankles and I saw the rope had been broken. I didn't know how that happened but I was not complaining.

"Grab the kid, leave the girl that was the instructions," I heard Kemo say, I went to scream to warn Joey and Tristan but I felt a sharp blow to the back of my head, knocking my consciousness away…

My eyes fluttered open; hazily I looked up at the person tapping my cheek.

"Yugi," I mumbled.

"It's alright your safe," I heard the Spirit said, I wasn't entirely sure I could trust him. I felt as though I could, but I didn't know him.

"Yugi!" I gasped pulling him into hug. "Wait Mokuba! Where is he?" I cried as I remembered, the orders Pegasus gave the goons.

"They took him, you were our first priority Tristan and Joey ran to find them but…"

"Just another reason to get into the castle, the kids grown on me big time," I said trying to get up, the Spirit helped me up, letting go cautiously to make sure I could stand alone.

Which of course I could, I just wouldn't be running any marathons any time soon.

"We lost them," I heard Tristan's voice.

"Téa go with them we'll split up and look," I said.

"Right," Joey, Téa and Tristan said leaving me alone with the spirit again.

We walked in silence for a while, I was thinking about my mixed feelings towards this spirit. My heart said trust, my head said don't.

"Mana?" said the spirit, I looked up.

"Yes Yugi?" I said smiling.

"Mana, is something on your mind?" he asked concerned.

"Yes, just… I can trust you right? I mean I know you're not Yugi –"

"I'm sorry?" he said stunned.

"Don't insult me with that and besides, how the others haven't notice Yugi grows about 6 inches and voice drops; along with other obvious changes is beyond me."

"You've known all along?"

"Since the first time I saw you appear I've known," I amended, though I felt weird about the puzzle even before it was completed.

_~Flash back~ _

"_Here is your dinner Yugi," I said putting the plate beside him. _

"_Thanks Mana," he said as he placed another piece of the puzzle together. _

"_How far have you completed that so far?" I said leaning in curiously. _

"_About half way," he said excitedly. _

_I leaned over to look. _

"_It's a pyramid," I said curiously. _

"_Yeah, I think it'll be about this big," he said gesturing with his hands. _

"_I won't keep you," I said smiling. _

_~Flashback~ _

"I promise I mean no one any harm," he said snapping me out of it.

"I know I feel like I can trust you." I said smiling.

"Hey guys any sign?" I heard Joey yell as they came into view.

"No, I think he'll be in the castle by now," I said sighing.

"You did everything you could," Tristan said putting his arms on my shoulders. I smiled up at him.

"Just another reason to get into that castle," Yugi said.

"Right,"

"Come on Joey let's find you another duel." I said grinning.


	9. Joey vs Rex

"You sure you're alright Mana?' Téa said.

"I'm fine, honestly, all they did was tie me up,' I assured them, though this didn't stop the frowning.

"I can't believe we were so stupid to leave you alone,' Tristan said angrily punching a tree.

"I have been on my own several times on this island,' I said frowning. 'I do not need a bodyguard Tristan Taylor do you hear me?"

"Yeah I hear you," he grumbled.

"Whoa," Joey gasped crouching down. "This must be my lucky day." I looked down to see loads of cards on the floor.

"Hands off those are mine," Tristan said as he looked down.

"Cool Tristan, I didn't know you were training to be a duellist." Yugi said.

"Yeah well," he said crouching down to help Joey pick them up. "I figured if a doofise like Joey can hold his own in this game then hey I'll probably be an expert at it."

"I recognise that monster," Joey said picking up one of Tristan's card.

"Haven't I seen that card in your deck Joey," Yugi said leaning down on his legs over Joey's shoulder.

"Not this one, but I think I got one just like it," he said flicking through his deck. "Bingo, swamp battle guard, well would you take a look at this these two look like they could be long lost brothers of course that doesn't mean that your boys packs the same kind of wallop mine does."

"His wallop is just fine, my lava battle guard has never let me down. Try him out you'll see."

"Thanks," Joey said putting it in his deck. "It does say they work best together."

"You know what," Téa said looking smug. "I think I kinda see a resemblance between you two and those muscle heads." Yugi and I burst out laughing.

"Laugh it up," Joey said. "I take that as a compliment!"

"You would." I choked trying to breathe again. "Come on swampy and lava time to find Joey another duel,"

"Right," Joey said grinning.

"Wonder who I should face?" he said as we searched for an arena.

"Try and pick a sane opponent," I suggested. "No cheaters, swimming dudes or parts of people,"

Everyone laughed.

"That's good advice," Yugi said smiling.

"So why don't you follow it then Yug," I teased nudging him.

"I'll try too," he promised.

"I reckon give it a few more then find somewhere to set up camp," I said looking around the group for a response. Everyone nodded.

"Let's hope to be in the castle by tomorrow afternoon," said Tristan.

"We can do it," Téa said smiling.

"Yeah, we'll have your Gramps back in no time," Joey said.

"In the bright side at least we truly know that everyone has a soul, we don't, you know, die." Téa mumbled biting her lip.

"That's a good point," I said smiling back at her. "Take that Dawkins," I said waving my fist mockingly in the air, Téa and Yugi chuckled.

"Who's Dawkins," Joey asked, Téa Yugi and I groaned shaking our heads.

"Honestly don't you two read?" Téa said putting her hands on her hips, Tristan and Joey looked at each other then back at Téa.

"Nope," they said together.

"You two are insufferable," she yelled, I burst out laughing.

"Maybe we could harness it and use it as a weapon, no one would mess with us incase they are contaminated." I grinned.

"Hey!"

We laughed at them again.

"As fun as this is we really should get going, try and find somewhere were Joey's monsters will have an advantage,"

"Good call Mana," Yugi said, we headed towards the meadow arenas. Now we had one more person to save. Poor Mokuba, Pegasus really was an awful person, kidnapping a young boy using him to get to Kaiba, taking people's souls. I couldn't wait till we taught him a lesson, but we had to play his game first.

Twisted camp bastard, I thought.

It wasn't long before we heard the rumbling of a crowd, and sure enough we stepped out of the forest and saw at least six duelling arena's.

"Wow after all the crazy duellists we've been running into it's nice to see some normal kids for a change." Téa said. I nodded she wasn't wrong.

"Joey you only need a few more chips down go for someone too hard, its all about getting into the castle as quickly as we can," I said to him.

"Yeah, how about it tough guy, any of these tykes puny enough for you to take on. Or do you want to go and look for some three year olds." Tristan said, I could see Joey looking annoyed, great now he would act impulsively, great guys thanks, I thought miserably.

"Come on be nice," Téa said, ah good hopefully their fear of us two would keep them calm. "You know Joey's just biding his time until he finds a duelling monkey to challenge." She said. Or not, I sighed waiting for the explosion.

"Come on lay off him, he beat Mai," I said getting annoyed, why did they always pick on him, it made him do something stupid. At the same time when he was like this it made me think of the old ways when I had a crush on him, though this secret would stay with me to the grave. It was only a little one, to be honest I wasn't even sure if it was real or something the girls had forced on me by saying I _had _to like someone so I chose one of my best mates, and even if I didn't like him I could say Joey was a very attractive boy.

"Just one more word about duelling monkeys –" Before he could finish a horribly familiar laugh was heard. "Argh please don't tell me that's who I think it is." Joey said shutting his eyes as Mai walked up behind him.

"How are you Joseph, glad to see me?" she said.

"Ecstatic," he said, I hid a snort.

"So Joey is Yugi still fighting all your battles for you or is Mana now? Everyone knows if Yugi wasn't there to hold your hand then you wouldn't have beaten me. Isn't that right Yugi?" she said.

"That's not true," Yugi said frowning.

"Oh really then I propose that he steps out of your shadow here and now if Joey thinks he's so tough let's see him play for himself." She said pointing at him. "I'm waiting for your answer Joey. Think you have the guts to take on the duellist I've arranged for you."

"It's not you?" he said confused, she gave an amused hum under her breath as Rex appeared from behind a tree. Uh oh.

"I'm duelling on Mai's behave recognise me?"

"Unfortunately," I grumbled as Yugi said.

"That's Rex Raptor,"

"This twerp supposed to scare me or something I bet he ain't so tough."

"Don't you remember Joey," Téa said. "Rex placed second place in the regionals."

"Well Joey you got to ask mommy's permission or what." Mai said.

"Don't goat him!" I snapped at her. "And Joey ignore her and what those two said before ok, if you want to prove that you're not in Yugi's shadow which you are not." I said glaring at Mai. "Then next duellist neither of us will help, but Rex Raptor he is one of the best in the world, and Joey your good but you have only been duelling for a little while. Please Joey." I said using my best puppy dog eyes.

"No way, this is my fight," he said not even looking at me.

"Joey," we all groaned.

"What are you trying to prove," Téa said.

"Really bro, pick your battles." Tristan said.

"Oh and by the way if Yugi does any of this back seat duelling then Joey is automatically disqualified and the match will go to Rex. Same goes for you Mana. So what do you say Joey? This is your big chance to prove yourself or are you going to back down?"

"Of course he is – "

"No," Joey interrupted Téa. "That's the way I want it. Just me and him, it may cost me some star chips but if the only reason I'm winning is because of Yugi's smarts. All my life people are trying to help me cause they think I can't help myself. Well I don't need to be babied this time."

"You've lost it Joey you can believe whatever you want but I'm not just going to stand here and let you throw your chips away. I hope you guys don't mind but little Joey won't be coming to duel today." I noticed Joey's hand's shaking Tristan was taking it too far. "Maybe once he grows up we can arrange a play date." Tristan said.

"That's it!" Joey said punching Tristan, knocking him to the ground.

"What was that for?" Tristan said whipping the side of his face.

"Didn't you hear what I just said wise guy, I'm tired of everyone thinking they gotta come to my rescue."

"But that's not how it is," Yugi said. "Friends look out for each other,"

"Keep out of this Yug," Joey said darkly.

"Hit him and I'll knock you out Joey," I said scowling at him.

"Well, just let me do what I got to do," he said.

"Do what you got to do with another duellist Joey," I groaned in aspiration I was going to kill Mai.

"Good idea," Tristan said darkly. "Do what you got to do even if it means losing the chance to help your sister."

"Let's just calm down – " I tried to smooth over.

"Forget it, if Mr Macho wants to lose he can do it by himself, no one will baby him." Tristan said storming off.

"But Tristan!" Yugi yelled.

"Let him go," Joey said.

"Trouble in paradise," Rex said.

"Stay out of this!" Téa yelled, Joey gently put his arm in front of her.

"So what's it going to be, you going to run off with your friend or are you going to start acting like a real duellist." Mai said.

"I'm still here ain't I?" he smirked.

"Alright, it's dino feeding time," Rex yelled. Moron.

"We believe in you Joey, just remember everything you are fighting for." Téa said.

"And what Grandpa taught you make him proud." I added.

"Three stars?"

"Three stars," Rex agreed.

We found out that Rex wanted to duel Mai, Yugi left to go and find Tristan, he succeeded as Joey's life points were low. He gained some ground when he summoned the battle guards which helped each other, resulting in his little having help doesn't make you weak epiphany. After he lost the battle guard tag team he was pretty crushed especially when the red eyes black dragon wiped out nearly all his monsters. But Rex's card deal gave him the break he needed, he won the match and took the red eyes along with the star chips as his prize. Joey and Tristan ran to each other as soon as he won. Tristan punched him, Joey fell to the ground in surprise.

"You punched me, after everything, I just went through you go and punch me!"

"Yeah, well tough, now we're even from when you punched me."

I slapped my forehead. Boys! It was amazing how much that one chromosome changed a person.

"Don't you know two wrongs don't make a right, yer jerk." Joey said, putting his fists forward.

"Should I make it three then." Tristan said, putting copying Joey's stance.

"Come on guys, there's no need to fight over this." Yugi said. Ah a boy with common sense, so valuable, so rare.

"Maybe we should stay out of this one," Téa said, as we watched them pull each other's faces. "I think this is there bizarre way of showing each other they care."

"Oh… ok." Yugi said. "I just hope they don't care about me that much."

"Alright you two pack in we have to get moving if we want to find a good place to set up camp." I said making them both turn to look at me still holding the others cheeks, it made me laugh.

"Ok, no more duels today," Yugi said smiling. We headed into the forest the five of us together…


	10. Camping with Mai

"Maybe we ought to set up camp somewhere," Téa said as the sun went down.

"Don't tell me your afraid Téa, you got us protecting you." Tristan said.

"That really make me feel safe," I teased.

"And just who is protecting you guys?" she said.

"Er good point let's set up camp," Tristan said.

"Relax guys, there is nothing in these woods but crickets and squirrels." Joey said.

"What about all the other duellist genius," I said.

"There won't be that many left now," Yugi said.

'Yeah, I bet half the island have been taken out by now." Tristan added.

We walked into a small meadow.

"Looks like a good place to set up camp," I said, everyone nodded or muttered in agreement.

"Hey my meal ticket," Joey said, heading straight for a poisonous mushroom, Tristan quickly grabbed him.

"No," he grunted trying to keep Joey from eating the obvious poisonous mushroom.

"Wild mushrooms are poisonous Joey," Yugi said.  
"So do us all a favour and let him eat it," Mai's voice drifted over, we all turned to see her standing by us all.

"Now what do you want Mai," Joey said as she got out a chocolate bar and bit into it. "That's it! You can duel me, you can insult me but you can't eat in front of me."

"You're that hungry are you? Ok then give me your star chips and I'll give you some food," she said, after a bit of drooling Joey shook his head like a dog.

"Forget it! Potato chips, I mean star chips are priceless."

"I was just kidding Joseph," she said. "I'll be more than happy to share if you can ask politely like a gentleman."

"Right so you can go and make fun of me for that too," Joey said.

"Look, by tomorrow I will have won entry to the castle so there's no point in me keeping an entire pack full of food."

"Sure would be nice not to duel tomorrow hungry we only have enough for two people."

"How do we know that this isn't another trick?" Joey said crossing his arms. "Give me one good reason to trust you."

She grinned. "Cause it's me or that poisonous mushroom," she said removing the sack from her back and throwing it onto the rug we had put in the small meadow.

"Look at this stuff candy bars – " Yugi gasped.

"Dibs on the candy bars," Joey said.

"Potato chips – "

"Dibs on the chips," Tristan said.

"Canned fruit, soda –"

"Dibs on the soda," Joey said, making me laugh.

"Sorry boys no dibs on anything yet, at least not until you complete your chores. I want Yugi to go look for some firewood."

"Sure," Yugi said.

"And you two boys can go fetch us some water."

"You bet," Tristan said giving the bucket to Joey and pushing him forward.

"I'll go get us that firewood," Yugi said getting up and out of the small clearing, leaving what looked like the only three girls on the island together.

"What's your name." Mai asked Téa gently. "Téa isn't it?"

"Mm," Téa mumbled.

"Well if you and Mana want to go and freshen up a bit there's a make shift shower just over there." She said.

"Thanks Mai," Téa said.

"Hanging out with those boys doesn't mean you have to smell like them." She said to us.

"You go first Mana I'll go in after you,"

I smiled in thanks and made my way inside, I went over the day in my head, I'd been kidnapped, what a fun thing I could tell people, I thought sarcastically. The boys came back as I exited fully clothed.

"Ok Téa your turn," I said smiling rubbing my long hair in the towel.

Mai and I guarded Téa as she showered, I knew the boys wouldn't go near it, I was here more for the fact anyone could sneak in. Not _my _boys.

"Look at you Joey only thing missing is a chief's hat and a cute apron." Mai said as Joey cooked.

"Jeez alright already," Joey said like he was embarrassed making me laugh.

"Now keep cooking," she said sternly.

"Wow your tough Mai," Téa said from behind the curtain.

"Us gals have to look out for each other especially with a bunch of boso's like them around. I don't see why either of you hang out with them." She said.

"There our friends," I said narrowing my eyes at her. "Yugi's my brother, he and Grandpa took me in and have never looked back unlike Yugi's mother. Sure the boys are idiots sometimes but there our idiots right Téa," I said.

"Right," she said before she screamed.

"What's wrong," Mai and I said, Mai quickly entered the tent. I barely heard Téa's response because Joey and Tristan were running towards the tent. Yugi trying to pull them by the bottom of their coats.

"You two can't go in there!" I said trying to block them, Mai came out from the other side and whacked them both to the floor.

, Mai quickly entered the tent. I barely heard Téa's response because Joey and Tristan were running towards the tent. Yugi trying to pull them by the bottom of their coats.

"You two can't go in there!" I said trying to block them, Mai came out from the other side and whacked them both to the floor.

"Idiots," I muttered fondly as Yugi looked very red and very sheepish.

"Téa is in the shower I highly doubt she wants you two going in there!" Mai yelled at their cowering figures.

Few seconds later, Téa reappeared clothed, luckily before Mai could have a go at the boys again the food was ready.

"Wow, sure smells good," Tristan said.

"Time to did in!" we chorused.

"Tasty," Tristan said.

"Thanks very much," Joey grinned.

"Please," I snorted. "I taught you how to do that." I laughed.

"Mm four stars," Téa said.

"Speaking of stars I've heard you've won a few Mai." Yugi said as Mai had a drink. "How many do you have? 8 or is it 9? However many sure sounds like you're in the zone."

"Don't think you can fool me with your nice guy routine, Yugi." Mai said. "It's only a matter of time – "

"Can we forget about the tournament for one night?" Téa said.

"Let's make fun of Joey instead that's always fun." Tristan said.

"Ok just as long as everyone is crystal clear about one little thing. Any duellist in my way is going down. Now if you'll excuse me I'm going to go for a walk." She said getting up and walking away with her hands on her hips.

"Man, she can really ruin a meal," Joey said.

"She gave us most of it," I pointed out. "I think she's confused cause she likes us and she's used to being alone."

"How'd you get that?" Téa asked me, I shrugged I just knew somehow.

As we ate waiting for Mai to return they told me about the two duels I had missed and I in return told them how my duels had gone. After insisting that they left some food for Mai we were all finished.

"Man oh man," Tristan said as Joey stretched and yawned at the same time.

"Don't you think we should check on Mai," Téa said.

"Good idea," Yugi said.

"She has been gone for a while," Tristan said.

"It's probably some trap," Joey said.

"Hmm," Téa said before she screamed, the boys ran forward, Joey and Tristan closest to the moving bush.

"Yep, I bet she's been waiting there the whole time. Come on out Mai," Joey said. There was some more rustling then Bakura appeared from the bush we all gasped.

"It's Bakura." Yugi said.

"See I told you!" Téa exclaimed. "I haven't just been seeing things."

"What you doing way out here Bakura?" Joey asked.

"Same as you guys I guess," Bakura said.

"You gave us quite a scare sneaking around in those bushes." Tristan said with his hands in his pockets.

"Yeah, for a minute there we thought we had something to worry about." Joey said, but I had a weird feeling that we still did, something wasn't right with Bakura. "Pretty silly huh."

"Joey you've been looking at that card for like an hour what's up?" Tristan said.

"Alright I'll tell you just don't laugh. Sometimes when I'm duelling I pretend it's me out there on the field swapping blows with whatever my opponent has on the field." He laughed nervously putting his hand on the back of his head in embarrassment. "Isn't that dumb."

"Well if you were which card would you be Joey?" Bakura asked.

"Er, this one the flames swordsman kicks everybody's butt." He said before imitating the cards holographic stance.

"Not my guy the cyber commander," Tristan said, showing us all the card.

"You boys and your cards," Téa said laughing fondly.

"Actually Téa, the Dark Magician Girl seems to call to me." I said, thinking about how there was something about the Dark Magician that made me feel safe too.

"I think everyone has a card they can relate too. You should see if you can pick one for yourself Téa." Yugi said.

"Ok er I pick this one Magician of Faith." She said.

"What you gotta be kidding me." Tristan said.

"More like the magician of freaks if you ask me," Joey said.

"Shut up!" Téa snapped, the two of them hugged each other fearfully.

"Tell me which one you identify with Yugi," Bakura asked.

"Oh that's easy Dark Magician hands down." Yugi said. "Which card do you care about most Bakura?" Yugi asked.

"This is my favourite," he said holding up the change of heart.

"Kind of weird looking picture don't you think," Joey said.

"If you want to see how it works we could have a duel right now. Not for star chips just for a little fun." Bakura said.

"Sure I'm down with that," Joey said. "After all the star chips stuff it'll be nice to have a duel with no strings attached."

"I agree, I think just a regular old duel sounds like a great idea." Yugi said.

"Why don't you guys all put your favourite card in Yugi's deck so it'll be like were all playing." Bakura said, I suddenly had a very bad feeling.

"That's a great idea," Joey said.

"Yeah," Tristan said.

"I should warn you with this all-star team of cards we'll be tough to beat." Yugi said shuffling his deck.

"True, but maybe I'll surprise you," Bakura said.

"This'll be fun," Téa said.

"Use that cut down tree stump as a field," Tristan said, both Yugi and Bakura sat at opposite sides the rest of us crouched besides Yugi.

"Alright I'm all shuffled," Yugi said.

"Now you're sure you don't mind playing alone," Téa said.

"Don't worry about a thing we'll go easy on you." Joey said.

"Before we get started there is something I would like to share with you all, especially with you Yugi." He said.

"What's that." Joey asked, I was beginning to get a really bad feeling like the time with Pegasus's video where he stole Grandpa's soul. Bakura began to hum.

"What's he doing," Téa asked, as he placed his hands in front of this chest suddenly a millennium item appeared around his neck.

Shit.

"This is getting freaky," Joey said.

"No it can't be a millennium item," Yugi gasped, we were being pulled us somewhere very cold and dark. Somewhere very familiar…

"Oh man I hate magic," Joey said.

"Why are you doing this Bakura," Yugi demanded, I noticed Bakura looked different his hair higher, I suddenly felt my soul being ripped from my body I gasped and I heard the others do the same before the darkness claimed me.

_**Please review guys make me feel loved xx**_


	11. Halloween? Nope this is real, fabulous

Huh where was I? Why was it so cold yet so familiar? I looked up to see the spirit, he was a giant then beside me; Joey, Tristan and Yugi were all dressed as their favourite monster.

"What the…" I muttered. I looked at the guys "Why are you all dressed…Wait! Why am I dressed as the Dark Magician girl? What's –"

"Ah not only do we have the Pharaoh, but his best friend too," I heard someone say. "Hello again, Mana, it's been a while. Are your memories gone too?" Bakura sneered, yet he wasn't Bakura.

"Who are you?" I said glaring at him. "You're not Bakura."

"Very good, Mana I see your abilities to sense other spirits with your magic hasn't fully faded. We just need to practice."

"What are you talking about?" I said confused, looking up at the Spirit who seemed as confused as I did.

"Leave the young one from your games." The spirit snarled.

"Ah, but she isn't young at all. Her body yes, but her mind is only four years younger than ours."

Everyone gasped looking at me, I was sure the same shock and confusion was in my expression.

"Tell me Mana, does the name Mahad mean anything to you?" he said laughing.

"Mahad? I know that name…" I said aloud, that name was familiar. "It makes me feel protected yet like I should behave myself, but also I can relax. Like a friend and a teacher in one person." Well that wasn't meant to come out of my mouth.

"Ha! Seems her memory is in better shape than yours, Pharaoh." He said laughing as he placed a card face down.

"Pharaoh?" the Spirit said confused.

"Indeed, she's still a pretty little thing, looks exactly the same tan an all, wouldn't you agree?"

The spirit snarled at him. "If you are not going to be helpful than do not speak," he growled.

"Your right, enough talking perhaps I have said too much."

He plays another card face down in defence mode.

"No one attack that card!" the Spirit yells, drawing a card.

He plays one monster face down in defence mode then another card face down. The card comes to life I groan as it's Téa.

"Hey what's up!" she says to us we all groaned and try to hide her.

"Er guys – "

"Shh, be quiet," Joey says.

"It's a little early for Halloween don't you think." She sees the staff in her hand. "Uh what the?"

"Shh," Joey says. "Bakura and Yugi are big duelling giants fighting for our souls."

"But Yugi's right here,"

"Yeah, well the big guys isn't really me but he isn't really not me…"

"Huh." Téa said.

"Enough chit chat, finish your turn," the evil Bakura says.

"OK Mana attack his face down monster." The Spirit said.

"Ok. Er… Dark Magic Attack!" I cried coping what I had seen the Dark Magician Girl do, feeling extremely stupid but it worked and a morphing Jar appeared.

"Oh no, Spirit, I'm sorry."

"It's alright I expected that." He said smiling at me.

"I see perhaps a different approach," The evil spirit said playing another card face down in defence mode.

"Can someone explain what's going on here!" Téa said still looking at her staff.

"I know it's complicated," Yugi said. "But it has something to do with the millennium items Bakura and I have. It's some kind of magic."

"Magic, so I'm not going crazy," Téa said.

"Not unless were all going crazy." Yugi said.

"Just think of it this way Téa, there's two Yugi's the cool one up there and the puny one down here."

Yugi groaned then yelled. "That's not how it works at all!"

"Just a joke relax." Joey said.

"You forget here I have to powers of the Dark Magician." He stepped forward. Oh no.

"Yugi, I wouldn't do that if I were – " Tristan said.

"I'll show you who's puny around here." He said determinedly.

"Oh boy," Joey said. The electric lizard revealed itself. Oh no.

"Yugi wait!" me and the Spirit both yelled, but it was too late.

"Dark Magic attack!" he cried, he destroyed it.

"Alright," Joey cheered, but I knew what was about to happen.

"Great job Yugi," Téa said. Me and the Spirit looked at each other bracing ourselves for the electric lizards special ability.

Then it happened, I ran forward comforting him as the electricity run through him. He cried out in shock and I'd imagine pain.

"What Yugi!" Téa cried.

"What was that?" Tristan said.

"The Electric Lizards special ability," I said rubbing Yugi's arm trying to soothe him.

"It's making me go numb," he stuttered.

"I know," I soothed. "It's only one turn."

"Hang in there pal," Joey said as the Spirit cried.

"Yugi!"

The evil spirit chuckled.

"Alright soul stealer, I'll play my next card face down and it's your move," he said as he played the card.

"Soul stealer… the king of thieves," I yelled unconsciously then covered my mouth.

"How nice of someone to remember," he said smirking at me.

"You did something," I said. "That makes me hate you. Something to someone," I tried to concentrate. He laughed again.

"I have no doubt that your memories are returning just as the prophecy foretold. Too bad that you will be destroyed before they can occur in your dreams."

"Prophecy?" The Spirit said.

"Pharaoh!" I suddenly cried. "You're the Pharaoh! We were best friends! Why can't I control what I say!" I said covering my mouth again.

"It's the first time you have been to the shadow realm since your death." The evil spirit explained. "It is resurfacing small fragments of your memory and forcing you to reveal what you can recall."

I glared at him, was what he saying true… could I really be from the past, reincarnated into the future…

"We shall move on then," he said, Joey and Tristan tried to hide Téa.

"Don't bother fools, I can see her perfectly well." He sneered. "Now I have all five of you right where I want you. Helpless on the field easy prey for my man eater bug." He said placing it face down in defence mode. Uh oh when he flips it over one of us is gone to the graveyard.

"Man Eater, glad I'm a girl." Téa said.

"Unfortunately it doesn't work that way Téa," I said, staring at the face down card in horror.

"Yugi, what does that card do?" Joey asked.

"The man eater bug can destroy any creature on the field as soon as it's flipped up."

Tea took a sharp intake.

"Well that's certainly not good," Téa said.

"Guys I really don't want to go back to that Graveyard," Tristan said.

"What?" I said anxiously, looking at Tristan.

"Reborn the Monster," Yugi said quickly to calm me down.

"But then if it's already been used." I said my eyes filling with tears.

"Don't worry Tristan," Joey said. "None of us are going back to that graveyard. We'll destroy that bug before – "

"That won't work." I interrupted. "We attack it activates."

"Graveyard here I come," Tristan said, I whacked him with my staff.

"Ow, Mana!"

"Don't say that or Ra help me…"

"Ra?" Joey said.

"Egyptian God," I said involuntarily. The thief chuckled.

"Anyway back to the problem," Joey said ignoring the thief king. "One of us is going to be worm food?" he asked Yugi.

"There is only one way out of this," Yugi said. "And were standing on it," we all turned to the face down card.

"The trap card big Yugi laid down," Tristan said.

"Yes, but I am afraid to use it. The card requires that we sacrifice a creature."

"You mean one of us!" Téa said.

"Don't worry Tea, I'll go," Tristan said.

"No way Tristan!" Téa and I said together.

"Think about it that man eater is going to take one of us out no matter what we do. This way I'm taking it out too – argh." He groaned as Joey winded him with the handle of his sword. "I guess you disagree," Tristan groaned as he sank to the floor.

"You just got back from the graveyard." Joey said.

Before any of us could say something use Joey ran towards the Man Eater.

"Joey!" we all shouted.

"How tough can this bug be?" he said as he lifted the sword above his head ready to strike. The monster appeared. He screamed.

"Big Yugi use the trap. Use it now! Please I don't want any of my friends to get hurt." He said as I fought to hold it back, his sword in its mouth while he sat on its shoulders. "Sacrifice me!"

The Pharaoh nodded.

"No sacrifice me apparently I have already lived one life!" I cried.

"Mana!" they all cried, I went to help Joey but Tristan grabbed me from behind.

"Tristan let me go!" I yelled. "You've already save me once!" I yelled out. "You saved me from my village fire!" I blurted out but I was glad maybe he would sacrifice me instead.

"I am activating this trap sacrificing my flame swordsman to do so."

"No stop!" I said tears flowing down my face.

"The horn of Heaven, blasting its tone straight to your man eater bug! Obliterating him from the field once and for all!"

"But Joey." Yugi said getting up.

"What's happening to him?"

"He's disappearing," Tristan said.

"Don't worry about me!" he cried, before he was destroyed.

"He's gone just like that my best buddy's gone." Tristan said letting me go now. The thief king laughed.

"Don't worry you'll soon be joining him in the graveyard. You can spend an eternity together. I hope you don't harbour any illusions of rescuing your friend Joey from the Graveyard. You have already used Reborn the Monster the only way to get him back –"

"Magician of Faith!" I cried interrupting him. "My Pharaoh, activate her special effect get the Monster Reborn card!"

"Of course she can allow the player to collect one magic card from the discard pile and put it back in the player's hand." Yugi said.

"My Pharaoh," Tristan said, waggling his eyebrows.

"I can't remember it, but I said before he was my best friend. Keep track if you're going to comment." Smirking at Tristan when he looked like he had been slapped with a fish, Yugi and Téa laughed at his expression.

"And the card I choose Reborn the Monster!" the Pharaoh said replaying it Joey appeared on the field again, he was running, he stopped when he saw where he was.

"Huh, what?"

"Joey!" we all cried.

"Your waste your time and your turns rescuing these foolish mortals."

"My friends are never a waste of time. Make your move."

"Mahad had the millennium ring!" I blurted out. The theif smirked.

"Count on Mana to amuse me with a random memory. Can you remember how it came to my position?" he asked. I glared at him, trying to remember. Wait did that mean I actually believed it?

"It won't work if you try to force it," he said. "This is the move that will win me the match and your puzzle. First I play Lady of Faith in attack mode then the card that will turn your friends against one another. The Change of Heart."

"Change of Heart. Isn't that Bakura's favourite card?" Yugi said.

"And a very magical card it is. With this card I can turn you against your comrades. The very friends you swore to protect you will now destroy.

"No I refuse."

"You don't have a choice in the matter. This card allows me to control any opposing monster and I choice you little Yugi."

"Leave the young one out of this!" The Pharaoh snarled.

"Why should I? By simply destroying him I destroy you as well. You're here to guide and protect him! Then protect him against this!" he cried throwing the card onto the field.

"Yugi!" we all cried.

"It's Bakura!" Yugi yelled.

"The real Bakura!" Tea said.

"Bakura, so your soul was trapped in your favourite card too." Yugi said.

He nodded. "I want to help but we must act quickly Yugi!" he said possessing Lady of Faith. Go Bakura! "I've taken over his monster instead of yours."

The thief growled.

"I'll control her as you attack me. You can win against the evil Bakura.

"I can't I'd be destroying you sending you to the graveyard!" Yugi said horrified.

"I don't care its better than being enslaved by an evil spirit. Do it!"

"Be quiet!" the thief snarled.

"I have a better idea." The pharaoh said. A golden eye appeared on his forehead.

"If the evil power of Bakura's millennium ring can pull souls from their bodies perhaps the power of my millennium puzzle can put them back."

"All right, our Bakura is back where he belongs."

"But where is the evil dude?" Tristan said.

"He caused the protection of the palace to be increased after coming on the day of the coronation!" I blurted, covering my mouth again. I saw the thief with the Lady of Faith.

"This can't be!" he yelled.

"Listen closely Yugi, use the power of the Dark Magician send him to the Graveyard. NOW!"

"You got it. Dark Magic Attack!" he cried.

The thief quickly yelled. "Erase the memory of the history we have spoken from the real Magicians mind!" before yelling as Yugi destroyed him I felt my consciousness slipping away.

"Mana!" I heard my friends and Yugi yell as I drifted…

End of chapter


	12. Panic

"Mana? Hey guys she's waking up!" I heard Joey said. My eyes fluttered open. Argh it felt some someone had whacked me over the head with a brick.

"What…" I remembered the shadow game I knew it was real.

"You have that weird dream too?" Joey said, I realised he was holding me so I could sit up.

"Yeah, I guess, we were – "

"Duel monsters,' Tristan said.

There was a loud scream. It sounded like Mai.

"Whoa that sounded like Mai?" Joey said.

"Yeah," Yugi said, as I pulled myself up my head still pounding heart still pumping. It felt like some has just send masses of electrical volts through my system.

"Well lets go help her," Joey said, we all ran towards the scream when we got there we saw a huge guy. And I mean huge, his hand was the size of my head.

"Mai!" Yugi yelled. "You ok?"

"Your too late," she said.

"Too late for what?" Téa asked as we slowed to a stop a few metres away from them.

"This side show freak giving you a hard time Mai," Joey said.

"That's right, just like Pegasus pays me to do. Rule out all the duelling filth on this island and dispose of it."

"Doesn't that making you a garbage man," Tristan said.

"This is no joke, Panic is one of the islands eliminators and if you don't get out of here, he'll do the same to you as he did to me."

"Eliminators, what's that Mai?" Joey asked.

"Look," said Panic, grabbing Mai's forearm and forcing her arm above her head. "This is what she means right here, check out her duelling glove not a star chip left – "

"Let go off her!" I yelled.

"That would mean she was disqualified." Téa said.

"You're out Mai," Yugi said.

"I am," Mai said sadly. "It all happened so fast. The way Panic duels I just lost it."

"LET GO OFF HER!" I bellowed trying to move forward to help her, but Tristan grabbed a hold of me. that was twice tonight he better not make it three.

"This isn't right," Téa said.

"Ha she was one of my easiest defeats yet." He said throwing her towards us, laughing as she nearly fell.

"You creep move it, there's no excuse for pushing a girl." Joey said as Tristan let go of me to help Bakura keep him back.

"Calm down Joey, I know how you feel but that guys more than twice your size." Bakura tried to reason with Joey.

"I can take him." Joey snarled.

"No Joey," Yugi said. "Fists aren't the answer. Violence doesn't solve anything, I've dealt with a lot of bullies in my life and there is only one way to deal with them."

"What do you mean?" Joey said.

"You have to stand up to them!" he said fiercely before the Spirit reappeared.

"But Yugi…" Mai said, Panic grabbed her again.

"Now let's see you use your intimidation tactics against me Panic." He said in that deep voice that seemed even more familiar to me now than ever, it made me think of Egypt. What? Don't be stupid you've never even been to Egypt. "I don't scare easy especially when I am standing up for my friends."

"You twerp, I've eliminated her from – "

"Will you let her go!" I yelled running forward to help her now Tristan was occupied with Joey.

"Mana stay back." the spirit said putting his hand out in front of me. "If you're looking to bully someone bully me. Playtime is now over Panic, it's time to duel."

Panic was such a coward he tied the spirits with chains on his ankles and machines that shot fire at him when Panic choose. They were inches from him when he set them off. The spirit answered back catching Panic out. The best part was when he simply leaned back to doge the shots of fire. Well cool now not at the time. In the end he beat Panic with his own cowardly defence as well as constantly belittling him.

"He won!" Téa cheered.

"And Panic's not taken it well," Joey said.

"I'll say, Panic's having a Panic attack." Tristan said chortled.

"Nobody beats Panic! Nobody! I may not have defeated you Yugi! But I can still eliminate you!" he whacked the fire control so hard that he broke it causing the fire to charge towards us and the Spirit.

"NO!" I yelled throwing my hands forward as I did the fire turned to ice stopping dead in it's tracks. I felt woozy, I clutched my head with my right hand trying to stabilise myself with the other. I felt arms catch me as everything went black…

I opened my eyes to hear Joey crow. "I'm such a sensitive guy!"

Tristan chuckled. "Yeah when you're not being a pain."

"Which is most of the time," Téa joined in, making everyone laugh including the Spirit. He really did have an amazing laugh. No! Stop it!

"Ah my adoring fans," Joey said sarcastically.

"Whoever said I was your fan," I said as I tried to lift myself up out of Bakura's arms.

"Mana!" everyone cried rushing over.

"How are you feeling?" the Spirit said.

"I'm fine thanks," I said as they helped me to my feet, I still felt a little woozy I clutched onto the Spirit for support.

"What happened? How did you do that with the fire?" Mai said in amazement.

"I dunno, my head's pounding,"

"Rest," The Spirit said taking more of my weight. "We have explained why Mai, she needs rest, we shall see you at the finals."

"Yugi wait," Mai said making us all turn. "I'll repay you for what you did today. You're the one who won these so as far as I'm concerned I still owe you. More than I've ever owed anyone. And when we finally do face each other in a duel, it will be an honourable one."

"Yes an honourable one," the Spirit said smiling, we walked away back into the forest.

"Come on guys let's find somewhere to sleep."

"How about somewhere by the ocean," Téa said.

"Sure," Bakura said. "Sounds like fun."

"Well then let's go!" Joey called loudly and lead the way. It wasn't long till we found a nice spot on the Cliffside tree's on either side of us and a large enough space for us all to sleep. There was even enough room for half of one of the duelling arena's.

"Ok this looks like a good spot lets set up the tent." Tristan said, everyone nodded in agreement and began to set up camp for the night.

"Why don't one of you go in," I said angrily, as Tristan told her that she and Téa were going to be sharing the tent.

"Because you and Téa can share, it would be awkward for one of us."

"Wrong, you want me to sleep in there so it's easier to protect the _girls_." I said crossing my arms.

"You are the only one who has been kidnapped." Tristan said.

"I was trying to get Mokuba to run and it was six against one, you couldn't even beat Kemo with that kid!"

"Don't fight," Yugi said. "Mana just sleep in the tent. Téa doesn't want to go on the ground, you two are the only girls."

"I am in the tent," Téa said seriously.

"Fine," I grumbled.

"Well I am going to sleep now, we have a long day ahead of us tomorrow," Tristan said.

"Me too," Téa

"Me three,"

"I'm going to stay up a bit, I will go in the tent but not yet," I said before they could argue. Bakura and Yugi nodded. It didn't take long for Joey to start snoring.

"Interesting first day," Bakura said.

"Interesting night," I said thinking to how much we'd gone through even since the sun had gone down. As we gave a small chuckle Bakura's millennium ring was glowing and pointing at the castle.

"Bakura, I'm I seeing things or is your millennium ring actually glowing." Yugi said, Bakura picked up the item that was indeed glowing, but that was not all one of the pointers was pointing towards the castle.

"If not then we are all hallucinating." Bakura said

"That's pretty spooky don't you think?" Yugi said as the three of us stared at it. "The way it's pointing like that."

"Pointing to the castle," I said.

"Why would it do that?" Yugi asked.

"I don't know but it did the same thing the day I met you. I had just been transferred to your school. I was watching you guys play Duel Monsters when suddenly, the ring started to glow pointing right towards your puzzle."

"Wow Bakura so those pointers are somehow able to zone in on other millennium items." Yugi gasped.

"But then why would it point to the castle?" Bakura said puzzled.

"Why do you think Sherlock," I said laughing. "Pegasus has the millennium eye that's why." I said clenching my fists, pansy bastard. "Bloody soul snatching git," I grumbled under my breath.

"It's all rather scary isn't it. I mean grabbing souls with his, and I'll never forget when mine took us all to the shadow realm." Bakura said Yugi nodded, I noticed them both look at me then quickly look away. Something was up...

"Is the evil spirit of Bakura gone now?"

"You know it wasn't a dream," Yugi said.

"Please don't insult how well you know me with that." I scoffed.

"How much of that do you remember?" he asked curiously, I could feel the spirit listening as well.

"The whole duel, well the bits I was in."

"How about the talking?"

"Talking with the evil Bakura? Just about the shadow realm and our souls been in the cards he didn't talk that much really. Strange cause normally the villains unleash their diabolical plans." I joked. "Or taunt the people he didn't seem to do much,"

"Yeah weird," said Yugi, but there was something off in his voice.

"Wow look at that," Bakura gasped as the copter came into sight, the wind from its blades blowing the tree's and our clothes like crazy.

Tristan and Joey woke up.

"Hey what?" Joey yelled as the bright light of the helicopter shone directly at us. "Hey!" he yelled at it. "Some of us are trying to get some shut eye yer insensitive jerk."

Téa's head appeared from the tent.

"What's that?" she cried trying to be heard over the copter. We all watched as it landed, we stood together bracing ourselves for who could be inside.

Though I had an idea.

The door opened and a tall man stepped out.

It was Kaiba. The real Kaiba.


	13. Harsh Words

"It's Kaiba," Téa said. Captain obvious strikes again.

"What's he doing here?" Joey asked the group in general.

"I dunno, but it looks like he means business." Tristan said.

Yugi ran towards him, it was obvious he was here for Mokuba.

"I haven't seen you since our duel Yugi," he said.

"Uh huh," Yugi replied then his eyes widened in recollection, reaching into his pocket he said. "Oh your deck, I've been keeping it for you." he said holding it out. "Just think of it as a thank you for that duel you helped me win." He said smiling up at him. Kaiba took it.

"Thanks,' he said his tone monotone, but still Seto Kaiba saying thank you.

"You'll be compensated for your trouble." He said in an emotionless business tone.

"Actually Kaiba, I was thinking that since were all headed for Pegasus's castle you could stick with us." Yugi said. "Course you'll need some star chips," he said offering half of his glove.

"Don't be so naïve," Kaiba said harshly. "This isn't a game for me Yugi, I'm going after Pegasus to save my brother not so I can win some silly prize. Have fun with your tournament." There was the Kaiba we knew and despised.

"But Kaiba," Yugi said as he walked away.

"That snobby little…" Joey trailed off not knowing what Kaiba was, he ran after him. "Hey," he said grabbing a hold of his collar. "Listen touch guy, I can understand you wanting to get your little brother back an all, but don't go around here thinking that you're the only one round here with a noble cause kapeash? We've all got something were fighting for so if you want to get to Pegasus. Get in line or deal with me. That's right hot shot I ain't scared of you."

"Nice grip," Kaiba said. "Let me show you mine." Suddenly Joey was air borne flying towards us landing on his back.

"That was uncalled for," Bakura yelled as Yugi ran forward.

"Joey!" he cried, kneeling beside him. "Joey can you hear me? Are you alright?"

"Check his pulse," Bakura said.

"It was just a shove," I said rolling my eyes.

"Relax I'm fine," Joey said getting up.

"Do you really think I'm going to let you and this little tournament you're in delay me from finding Pegasus." He looked like he was resisting saying something painful.

"Forget Pegasus," Joey yelled. "You got me to deal with so bust out your cards and lets get it on."

"I can't tell if Joey is being really brave or nuts," Téa said.

"Forget it, why don't you go look for an opponent you can actually beat. Like an infant or a duelling monkey."

"What'd you say!" Joey bellowed, I groaned this was going to end badly.

"That monkey thing gets him every time," Tristan said.

"I don't have time for your nonsense." Kaiba said starting to walk away again. "Loser," he muttered just loud enough for us to hear.

"Go ahead and run, everyone knows your nothing but a washed up has been." Joey called.

"Joey be careful what you say," Yugi said. "Kaiba may be a creep, but he's still considered a top duellist in all the world."

"Not anymore," Joey taunted, Kaiba turned his head, oh dear. "That's right tough guy I bet ever since Yugi moped the floor with yah you can't even lay a trap card without flinching."

"Ok Joey let it go," Tristan said as he, Téa and Bakura all moved closer, I put a hand on his shoulder in warning.

"This is really the wrong guy to pick a fight with." Téa said.

"What d'yah say money bags," Joey still taunted. "care to prove me wrong."

"On one condition," he said. "we play using my new invention in holographic technologies."

"What do you mean by that?" Yugi asked.

"He means," I said, "he has an upgrade in the duelling holograms. I'm guessing there in your case." I said to Kaiba directly. He sneered at me but open the case and threw the technology at Joey like a Frisbee, Joey caught it and looked at it curiously.

"Looks like a flying saucer." Joey said making me laugh.

"Don't be an idiot," Kaiba said. "This is the most state of the art –"

"Ok Kaiba, only I understand what you're talking about so let's just skip it." I said, though it was amusing seeing everyone's confused faces. Joey put the saucer on his wrist.

"'Kay now what?" Joey said.

"Well it looks like your deck goes in here," I said pointing at the card sized area next to what I guessed was the life point count.

"I'll explain wannabe," he sneered at me.

"Will you stop calling me that!" I hissed.

"Struck a nerve have I, you know it's true."

"That's enough," Yugi said angrily.

Now you can see the life –"

"Yeah, I got it," Joey snapped at him.

"All set, now lets duel." Kaiba said.

"You got it!"

"Now brace yourself," Kaiba said throwing the disc between them. "For my Battle Ox."

"Wow look at the glitter." Tristan said.

"Yeah, looks like something from an enchanting dream." Téa said, I shook my head fondly at her, she was such a girly girl.

"Ew, more like a nightmare." She said as Battle Ox appeared.

"No way that's a hologram," Yugi gasped. To be fair to them, it did look pretty real, I had to hand it to Kaiba he really did a good job.

The duel continued like I knew it would, Kaiba won. Thought he didn't need to call Joey a dog, his victory with blue eyes was short it was over in less than ten turns.

"That's right Joey stay down. Stay down like the snivelling defeated dog I've turned you into."

"Are you alright Joey?" Yugi called, but I was too infuriated to comfort though I did run ahead with the rest of them.

"Hey it's ok Joey," Téa said softly hugging him.

"I'd say my duel disc system has proven quite effective not only did its stunning realism jar Joey into complete and utter submission, but just look at him, he's moping like a frightened dog with his tail between his legs – "

I walked up to Kaiba and slapped him hard across the face. Everyone gasped.

"THAT IS ENOUGH KAIBA! You won, well done, with someone with years of experience and training over Joey you can't brag. He's only been playing for a little over a month. How far he has come is crazy! If you duelled him when you had only been playing for a month, I am willing to bet everything that I own the outcome would have been _very _different."

"Yeah, you jerk did you have to take his confidence away with his dragon, Joey was just starting to believe in himself as a duellist." Téa said.

"I've just taught him what Pegasus would be like. Look do you really think Pegasus would be more merciful with you? And you!" he said whipping his head around to me. "Butt out of things that are none of your business you mooching little wannabe, your loyalty to the Muto's is just as pathetic as him. You are not a part of that family. You are a little pet they found on the streets, bleeding them of money and time."

I'd rather he'd punched me, I felt my eyes burn, I turned away, Kaiba would not see his words affect me.

"Joey in the month you have been duelling you have sniffed out a frauds trick, beaten a runner up in the last big tournament and took 400 life points from Seto Kaiba do you know how incredible that is?" then I began to walk towards the tent, but before I entered I thought of something to say.

"Go to hell Seto Kaiba, rescue your sweet, kind unyouish little brother then go straight to hell."

"What are you talking about," he demanded, I felt rough hands turn me, Kaiba's hateful eyes burning into mine menacingly.

"Let her go rich boy!" Joey yelled getting up. "I'll tell yah what she means. He escaped, we found him and Mana got herself kidnapped trying to protect him. She told him to run while she fought the suits trying to grab him. They tied her up gaged and blindfolded her, she treat him like her own flesh and blood." I felt Kaiba's arms tighten. "Even after the way you insult her she still risked her life for that little brother of yours, so will yah try and be grateful to her, yah jerk!"

I felt hands pull me towards their owner and Kaiba's tight grip release me.

"Pegasus is ruthless, I've seen him in action he has every card and knows every strategy Yugi."

Without another word he walked away leaving all of us behind on his way to the castle.

"You alright Mana?" Joey asked me. I looked up at them all.

"Fine," I said glancing back at the tent. "I think we should move, we're too close to the cliff, the place we had last time is probably better,"

"Good call," Tristan said, it didn't take us long to bring down the tent and pack up our stuff, we began walking to the centre of the island, as we made it back to the clearing. There was a familiar blonde haired woman preparing her sleeping bag.

"Mai," Yugi gasped, she looked up and saw us all there.

"You guys look like your night hasn't got much better," she commented.

"We ran into Kaiba," I said, noticing everyone's faces darkening again.

"What's with the looks," she said her eyes narrowing.

"Kaiba doesn't like me," I said looking down. "I think we should all go to sleep Mai you take the tent with Téa, I'll sleep outside."

Tristan went to protest but I glared at him. Quietly we all set up camp again and began to one by one drift off to sleep…

_I could feel the warm glowing sun above me, the sand between my toes as I ran as fast as my legs wound carry me; laughing as I went. _

"_You can't catch me!" I yelled behind me turning to see my chaser it was the spirit. Well a younger version he only looked about nine. He was catching up grinning at me; he knew that we would win this game. He jumped his arms locking around my waist as he sent us both to the floor laughing. _

"_Got you Mana!" he cried, his spiky hair blocking my face from the sun. _

"_My prince! Mana! Where are you?" I heard a familiar voice. _

"_Hide," I whispered, grabbing his hand as we crouched behind a large tree._

I jumped up gasping.

I was in a forest?

That's right I was in a forest at Duellist Kingdom with Yugi and my friends. I looked around everyone was asleep Joey's loud snoring filling the space; I groaned how was I going to get back to sleep now?

"Mana?"

I jumped a foot in the air before I saw Yugi.

"Yug, you nearly give me heart failure," I gasped, clutching my chest.

"Sorry, are you alright? You looked anxious before," he said concerned.

"I'm fine don't worry," I said smiling at him.

"You sure? It looked like you were having a bad dream." He said looking into my eyes.

"Just…" Wait! What was I doing! I couldn't tell Yugi that I was dreaming about the Spirit in his puzzle that would just be freaky. "Try and go back to sleep I'm fine." I said lying back down and turning away from him. I saw the expression on his face he must be thinking it was to do with what Kaiba said.

Was it really a dream? It seemed so real…

Yugi POV

I pretended to go back to sleep, and when I heard Mana's breathing slow down to a calm rate I opened my eyes again, watching her. She had looked confused when she had woken up, I couldn't help but think about what the Spirit of the ring had said. Could it be true? Could she the ancient best friend of the spirit living in the puzzle?

_/I wish I could tell you/_

I jumped a foot in the air, I knew that voice from the duel with the Spirt of the ring.

_\Whoa, you can talk to me?\_

_/You willed it Yugi, to speak about your sister is strengthening our bond./_

_\Well what do you think about Mana?\_

_/I know what you know, nothing more… but it seems like it is true about her past with the information she gave, about me and her and this Mahad. The soul stealer. It all seemed very real./_

_\Yeah I agree, so you don't remember anything?\_

_/I remember that I was Pharaoh and that is all./_

_\Well hopefully Mana will remember more and tell us.\ _

_/Let us hope./_

Feeling strange that I had made such contact with the Spirit living inside my puzzle, I closed my eyes. If Mana had been his best friend then he must be alright. And he had saved them from the Shadow Realm. As I drifted off to sleep I wondered what the next day would bring.

_**Thanks guys, remember to review please! **_


	14. Finding Joey

I could hear birds chirping as I groggily found my way back to consciousness, I looked up to see hat Mai and Téa were already up and unpacked the tent.

"Mana," Téa said when she saw I had woken up.

"Fancy going for a walk kiddo?" Mai asked.

"Sure," I said brushing myself off, when I was done the three of us walked into the forest.

"Yesterday was eventful," Mai said casually.

"You weren't even there for half of it," I muttered.

"Sorry?" she said.

"We ran into a lot of trouble yesterday," Téa explained. "So Mai, you want to go shopping when we leave the island? Mana doesn't like it that much,"

"I don't hate it Téa," I said pouting.

"Sounds like fun,"

"Great what's your cell?" Téa said getting her phone out, Mai gave us both her number and we texted her with our name.

"Well I have duels to win," Mai said smirking. "I will see you all at the castle."

"Sure Mai," I said smiling.

"Take this, I've eaten and there is more of you than me," she said handing us the duffelbag.

"Thanks Mai," Téa said.

"Thanks," I said grinning at her.

"Oh and give this to Yugi," she said handing Téa a note.

"See you in the castle girls," she said winking before walking out of the forest.

"We should probably get back to them before they wake up and freak out,"

"Good idea," Téa agreed.

"We should be in the castle by lunch, all we need is for Joey to win one more duel and we're set."

"I just hope one they don't have to face each other." Téa said anxiously.

"If they do I'm sure they'll be fine they've been through a lot together, a duel shouldn't strain their friendship too much."

We were almost back when I heard Joey yell. "Everybody wake up!"

I looked at Téa and she nodded at me we began to run, hoping it was our disappearance scaring Joey and nothing else. We came back into the clearing and heard Yugi saying.

"Joey, what's wrong?"

"What is it Joey?" Bakura asked.

"Nah nothings' wrong," he said, "it's just a brand new day of the tournament and I'm hot to find us a duel."

Well you don't have to shout about it," Tristan said grabbing his coat from the floor.

"Er, Téa why you got Mai's bag?" Joey said.

"Because she is going to kick ass and doesn't need all the food in it," I said grinning at Joey.

"Where is Mai, is she with you?" Joey asked, aw I think he had a crush on her.

"She said she had to go, and to give you this note Yugi," Téa said hanging Mai's note to Yugi, Yugi blushed as he read it, I frowned wondering what she had put in the letter.

"Come on guys best get going." I said smiling, taking a bag of rice cakes from the bag and opening them up.

"Here guys, one more for Yugi and the rest for Joey,"

"I wonder how many duellist are left on the island," Bakura said curiously.

"They shipped a couple dozen home yesterday," Joey said.

"And I bet some more have been eliminated by now." Téa added.

"And some of them were really good players," Yugi said. "With powerful cards,"

"Well we got you in the finals now it is just Joey," I said smiling. "He's only got 2 more to go, we'll be there by lunchtime. I saw Tristan go to open his mouth but I nudged him in warning. As we walked I had the weirdest feeling that we were being followed, I turned my head slightly to see if there was anyone behind us but I couldn't see a thing. Yet… Nah I was probably being paranoid, especially knowing that Pegasus's goons could be anywhere, I was kidnapped yesterday so it's bound to mess with my psyche. Wow I looked back on the day before, I had taught a kid a lesson about sexism, gotten kidnapped protecting Kaiba's little brother, seen a dark part of Kaiba battle The Spirit, whisked off to a shadow game, collapsed after the Spirit's duel with Panic and finally had a screaming match with Kaiba. How uneventful my life was, I was scared to look at the week as a whole.

"Did you hear that? I think we're being followed." Joey said, I looked around nervously, it wasn't just me who felt it, maybe there is someone out there.

"I think you're getting a little paranoid Joey," Téa said.

"You've been acting hyper ever since you woke up this morning, man what's eating you?" Tristan asked.

"I'm telling yah somebodies stalking us," he said running

"Where are you going?" Bakura yelled after him.

"To stalk them," he yelled back as we lost sight of him.

"Stay here till he comes back," Téa sighed, the others nodded in agreement.

We waited for the goof ball to return when we approached the half an hour mark, we began to grow more and more anxious.

"Joey's been gone an awfully long time," Yugi said.

"You don't suppose he got lost," Téa said.

"No way, but he could have been challenged to a duel," Yugi said.

"Guys, I think whoever was following us – '

"Mana no one – "

"I felt it too," I protested against Tristan. "Before he even said it, I felt it."

"Ok, lets split up and try to find him." Bakura suggested.

"Right," Tristan agreed. "Yugi, Mana and Téa you head that way, Bakura and I will go this way."

"OK," we call called before heading in the direction he had been assigned.

"Joey!"

"Joey!"

"Joey!"

None of our cries were answered, I hoped the boys were having better luck than us three. We reached a waterfall.

"He's not here," Yugi said as we caught our breath.

"Where could he be, if he was fighting in a duel I'm sure we'd see the arena." Téa

"Joey's just vanished, I'm worried.' I said biting my lips.

"We'll find him," Yugi reassured me, I smiled at him.

"Let's see if the others have found him alright," he said.

"Yeah," I said, we began to jog back, looking around the trees for any sign of Joey.

"Any luck?" I called out as I saw, the others, we spotted the guys by a cave

"Tristan look," Bakura

"Hey that's Joey wallet," Tristan said, "with a picture of Serenity."

"Joey would never be careless enough to lose that his sister means more to him than anything," Yugi said.

"Look over there!" Téa said.

"A cave," Tristan said. "I don't like the look of this,"

We all began to run towards it…

"What's is this place?" Tristan.

"Be careful could be some kind of trap." Yugi said.

"What's up with those coffins," Téa said.

"Beats me, who would leave them just standing here," Bakura said touching one of them.

"I wouldn't touch those guys," Yugi said.

"Be careful," Tristan said.

"Don't be silly," said Téa going to the other coffin. "It's just a wooden…" the chain began to move. Téa screamed as it fell open and a skeleton fell out onto her and Bakura at the same time. I began to laugh as the two ran in a circle yelling. Yugi and Tristan helped get them off.

"That's Pegasus has a sick sense of humour," Tristan said.

"Come on it was obvious what was going to happen." I said trying not to laugh at Téa and Bakura horrified faces. "We have to keep going, God knows where Joey is in here."

"Mana's right lets go," he said running, the rest of us followed his lead.

After another five minutes of running we slowly came to a holt panting, our hands on our knees.

"Still no sign of Joey," Tristan said.

"Yeah," Yugi

"We'll find him," I said.

"Hey where's Bakura?" Tristan said. "We didn't take any turns so where could he have gone."

"I don't know," Téa said, we suddenly hear him yell, he appeared yet another skeleton his back, we all yelled and ran from him.

"Get this thing off me!"

Tristan threw the skeleton away as we all lay exhausted from running.

"From now on, don't go and pick up any hitch hikers," he said.

"Is it safe to open my eyes now?" Téa said.

"Guys we have another problem, which way do we go now?" Tristan said in frustration, I knew he was worried about Joey. I looked up to see why he was so stressed to see a fork in the road. Ah. "Anyone got any ideas," he said.

"Gee they both look so inviting," Téa said sarcastically.

"Yeah well if Joey got invited down one of those tunnels we need to find out which one," Tristan said darkly.

"Tristan's right, we need to find Joey now." Yugi said.

"Hey," Bakura said sounding puzzled as he moved off something that looked like a trap.

"What's that sound?" Téa said nervously.

"I stepped on something," Bakura said puzzled.

"Shh, be quiet," Yugi whispered.

"I think it's coming this way," Tristan said.

"Yeah, but what?" Téa said.

"Indiana Jones moment," I whispered.

"Oh dear," Bakura said, his hands over his mouth as we saw the giant bolder coming towards us, we all hurried down the left tunnel the bolder followed us.

"Why is the boulder chasing us," Téa cried.

"We're going downhill!" Tristan and I yelled together.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry." Bakura chanted as we ran, I saw him trip out of the corner of my eye and watched in horror as he fell. I went to help him back up but Tristan grabbed me, pulling me forward.

"No!" we all yelled as Bakura fell below the boulder.

"Just keep running." Tristan instructed.

"It's a dead end!" I said I could feel my stomach drop, we were trapped.

"Right, behind me now all of you." Tristan said. "There's nowhere to run –"

"Don't be stupid it's a freakin' boulder!" I yelled at him.

"You can't punch a boulder," Téa cried.

"I'm gunna try!" he grunted as prejected his fist forward when it connected the boulder… popped.

"It's a balloon?" Téa questioned.

"Yeah and that's a speaker," Yugi said crouching down. "Somebodies wired that thing for sound and I bet it was Pegasus."

"Of course, he couldn't have things that could kill contestants it would make him liable." I said, how had we been so stupid of course we weren't going to be killed.

Téa ran to Bakura and helped him up, I think he was in shock. "Are you ok?" she said gently, shaking his shoulder.

"Pegasus has spared no expense to scare us half to death." Yugi said.

"Sick bastard," I muttered before walking back the way we came. "Come on Joey must be down that other tunnel,"

Everyone began to follow me as we walked back the way we came.

"What would you guys do if you had as much money as Pegasus, we know that he is a sick pig who tries to kill people. What would you do?"

"I'd buy a mansion with a pool filled with gravy," Tristan said. We all stared at him. "What?"

"Never mind, Bakura?"

"I'd probably find somewhere in the country and live there,"

"Shopping, plus I'd pay a studio in New York so that I could audition every day, for the roles I want."

"What about you Yug?" Tristan said.

"I'd buy the shop from Grandpa so he could relax and get some more staff to help him out." He said smiling.

"Maybe add another bedroom," I said grinning, everyone laughed. "That too," he grinned. "What about you Mana?"

"Mine is kind of a combo between Yugi's and Téa's." I said winking, as I went to speak again I heard the sound of duel monsters.

"Guys did you hear that?" I gasped.

"Yeah," Tristan said staring to run again, it didn't take long until we saw a creepy graveyard duelling arena and on the blue side we a mop of messy blonde hair… We found him.


	15. Cave

"Joey!" we all yelled.

"You guys are really here," Joey said grinning down at us.

"What kind of duel arena is this?" Yugi asked him.

"Are you crazy, why did in the world did you accept a duel like in a place like this?" Tristan said.

"Yeah, like I had a choice, those three creeps there ganged up on me and forced me to duel." He explained.

"Whoa," Tristan gasped as the two taller thugs came closer. "This duel is over,"

"That's not up to you chum," the more British redhead said.

"And I say it is," Tristan growled.

"You'll have to get past me," said the big stupid sounding one.

"My pleasure," Tristan smirked running at them, but the British one flicked something at him distracting him while the stupid one punched him in the gut.

"Tristan!" I yelled.

"Tristan are yo – "

"Hold it," said they blonde musically guy with the American flag on his head, and sunglasses, was he freaking kidding. It was pitch black in here! "Remember if you leave the arena you forfeit the duel and your star chips belong to me."

"The duel is illegal anyway," Téa said.

"Right Téa," Bakura said.

"Wrong Téa," he said. "When he threw down his star chips he accepted the duel," he began to laugh.

"Looks like your just have to beat these punks, and in case you need an added motivation, try this." Tristan said throwing up his wallet, Joey stared at the picture of Serenity.

"Thanks man," he said smiling at Tristan.

"So what is it going to be? You gunna run dweeb or you going to part with your star chips the hard way." Keith said, I recognised him from a few tournaments ago.

"Hey, I've had it up to here with your smart remarks. Spill, who are you anyway?" Joey demanded.

"The reject with the sunglasses in a bloody cave is Banded Keith, you know they one Pegasus battled then got a kid to finish him off." I said.

"Pipe down you little princess," he snapped.

"Come here and make me," I retorted.

Finally the battle ended with a true heart of the cards victory. Allowing Joey to beat his Zombies by swapping their attack and defence points.

"Hey Banded Keith," Joey said bringing my attention back to him walking away. "Maybe next time you'll have the nerve to duel me face to face rather than hiding behind your creepy flunkies."

"Huh, duel you face to face, your hopeless dweeb –"

"He just beat _you _not that kid, you've been hissing instructions in his ear." I yelled.

"You need to keep that pretty little mouth of yours shut!" he said continuing to walk away.

"What a jerk," Téa said.

"Hey guys, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to drag you all into this mess," Joey said.

"Next time don't be in such a hurry to run off," Tristan said. "But as long as he won the duel we can forgive him."

"I admit you had us worried at first," Téa said smiling.

"But you really pulled through this time," Bakura added.

"So now can we get out of this creepy pit," I said, I had a bad feeling about Keith.

"Yeah, good plan, Mana." Joey said, he put one arm around me and the other pointed up to the ceiling. "To Pegasus's castle!"

"To victory!" I yelled laughing at him.

We all began to head back the way we came.

"Bakura, try not to set off any more traps." Tristan said. Bakura gulped as we all laughed.

"I can't believe we are almost there," Téa said. "We are so close to getting your Grandpa back."

"Yeah, but we still have a long way to go before I can face Pegasus." Yugi said looking determined.

"We have a lot more at stake than prize money Yug, you'll win the tournament and the battle against Pegasus. I know it." I said as we walked, passing the start of the fork.

"Wow, how'd you guys know to go down this one?" Joey said.

"We didn't," Tristan said.

"We have a 'boulder' chase us down that one." I said.

Joey looked at me.

"'Boulder'?"

"It was a balloon with a speaker inside." I said with a small shrug. Though I could have sworn I heard Bakura wince.

We saw an exit

"Hey daylight," Joey crowed, as we all ran towards it, we saw a boulder being pushed, blocking out the sun and our way out. Banded Keith! I started to push, but even with all of us it didn't budge.

"This thing weights a ton. I can't even get it to budge." Joey said.

"Push harder come on," Tristan said.

"We are trying to push it up hill, doesn't matter how little." I panted.

"Are we really trapped in here," Téa cried.

We all groaned trying to push, shruggling and feet slipping for five minutes.

"Yeah this thing ain't budging boys and girls," Joey said giving up. "We're trapped."

"Come on, there has got to be a way to get out of this place," Tristan.

"But these tunnels run everywhere we could be lost forever." Bakura said.

"Argh, Pegasus, wait till I get my hands on that creep," Joey yelled angrily, but as he began to rant I was lost from my surroundings, and was in a long room.

_Pegasus was watching us on a big screen, he chuckled taking a sip of his wine. _

"_I love this show, but what's playing on dungeon TV." He chuckled again. "Goodie, another instalment in the sad little saga of Mokuba," he gave a hearty laugh…_

"Mana!"

"MANA!" I heard someone yelling, as I felt a sharp tap on my face, I opened my eyes to see everyone staring anxiously at me. Then I recoiled what I had just seen.

"PEGASUS! I know you're watching with your rose wine and your cheese and large TV, here's a small present for you!" I stuck my finger up at where I remembered the camera being. "We're not some show, you camp weirdo!"

"Mana what –"

"He has camera's, he has been watching our every move." I said furiously, glaring at the camera I spotted embedded in the rock. "Tristan help me up, I'm going to smash it."

They all stared at the camera for a moment, before Tristan locked his hands together. I put my foot in and used it to put the other on his shoulder.

"Joey, hand me that rock would ya?" I said pointing. Joey picked it up and handed it to me. Clenching it tightly I paused for a moment before slamming it into the camera.

Ouch!

I recoiled back, Tristan lost his grip on me and I was falling. This was going to – Joey!

Arms had caught me before I could hit the stone floor.

"I got ya!" Joey said grinning at me.

"Thanks Joe," I said. "Sorry Tristan."

He grunted at me.

"Back to the main problem." He said darkly.

"Maybe we should go back," Bakura said. "Find another route out."

"No, there won't be any other way out, not with the amount of food we have left," Joey said.

"So what do you suggest?"

"Try and push from an angle to roll it out, but be careful we don't know how stable this is," I said.

"Right," the guys said. I stood next to Yugi.

"He may be a bit stronger than you Yug," I whispered eyeing him meaningfully. His eyes widened before he grew into the Spirit.

"Alright everyone," the spirit said. "On the count of three. One, two, three!"

We all grunted as we pushed.

After a moment, I felt a weird tingling sensation in my body. It spread down to my hands and as it did so I felt the boulder shift obediently. Pushing a bit harder, the tingle increased until.

"We're out. Fresh hair at last." Joey yelled stretching his arms wide over his head.

"Yeah, we are that awesome folks!" Tristan said. I smiled at him. The tingling was gone and it was replaced with a drained ache.

"Alright, perhaps we should eat and regain our strength," the Spirit said, I noticed he eyed me more than the others, but how could he know I was exhausted by whatever weird thing happened there?

"Yeah good idea, Yug." Joey flopped to the floor, we all joined him, I sat by the Spirit. Once everyone was chatting about what it would be like in the castle I turned to the Spirit.

"How did you know?" I whispered.

"You looked tired," he said just as quietly, "that and I felt the magic and it was not myself so that left you."

"Well thanks," I mumbled, he nodded.

"What do you think the food will be like?" Tristan asked us.

"Is that all you think about?" I laughed.

"It's a very important thing, Mana," Joey said seriously.

I rolled my eyes looking ahead. I could see the castle.

"You reckon a bucket of water of his head would work?"

The other smiled at me.

"Meh?"

"Wizard of Oz Joey,"

"Oh yeah, I knew that!" he said.

When we had walked up about 20 stairs I realised we had two missing. Turning around and looking at the bottom of the stairs I saw Téa and Yugi talking.

"Er, guys we may wanna wait for Yug, you know given he's one of the two with star chips and all."

They looked back to see Téa and Yugi.

"Hey you two what's the hold up?" Joey yelled down to them.

"Hurry up or we'll go inside without yah," Tristan

"You know since none of us are even supposed to be here maybe we should wait for him." Bakura said.

"Good point," Tristan said.

"Hey do we need to carry you guys up!" Joey yelled.

"What's the problem come on," Tristan called.

Both grinning they made their way up to meet us when they did. We began to climb the Everest of stairs.

"You'd think someone as rich as Pegasus would have an elevator – " but I wasn't listening to Joey anymore Kaiba was at in front of the castle doors.

_**Hey guys sorry this was so late. I have had exams and then I came back to England for Christmas so I have been catching up with my friends. THEN I lost some of my notes for a few chapters on I this story and still haven't found them. They were important notes **_____

_**I aim to find them before I go back to America on the eleventh. Now I have time as my laptop is broken I KNOW RIGHT! I have nothing to do but look for it, fingers crossed. **_

_**So that has to go in for repairs this week. So the next update will be before the end of Jan but that is all I can promise I am afraid at the mo. I will be joining Tumbler when I have the time. Again probably when I am back in the US. Other stories that were kicked off here and this one will be put up on there if anyone wants to read some Harry Potter stuff. Oh guest I have battle city all planned out so don't you worry about that. It is around Pegasus's duel till Duke Devlin that has disappeared. Also if people wondered why I haven't included the twin duellists, I just wanted to change it up a little (I sat watched, paused, wrote, went back, pause, played, and wrote again for 6 hours straight by this point I was done with my life) no manly the first… I think. **_

_**Thanks guys remember to review. **_


	16. Yugi vs Kaiba

"Kaiba," I gasped, everyone looked up to see him standing there.

"No way," Téa said.

"What's he doin' here?" Joey asked.

"I can't let you pass Yugi," Kaiba said.

"I've got ten star chips, so step aside." Yugi said.

"You may have won the starchips to qualify for Duellist Kingdom play off Yugi, but I can't allow you to face Pegasus he's mine. You and I are going to have one final duel, you will lose and I will win. The winds of change are blowing Yugi Muto."

"Step aside Kaiba,"

"Not until you agree to duel me." Kaiba said.

"I'm not duelling you I don't have to," Yugi said.

"So no longer confident your so called heart of the cards can win –"

"Shut up Kaiba." I yelled at him.

"Back off wannabe I really don't want to talk to _you_," he snarled.

"What have I ever done to you!" I snapped. "You treat me like crap for no reason, and I don't care how powerful you are, I'm not afraid to put your ego in check."

"I can't believe the little barking chiwawa has won ten star chips, you earn them yourself or did Yugi throw you a bone. Or maybe wannabe did, her gloves empty, has she been duelling for you?"

"Don't call me a chiwawa," Joey growled at him. Tristan and Bakura held him back, Kaiba laughed. "Don't let him snap his chain."

"This is about Mokuba," I gasped looking to Kaiba's eyes, the fire and the passion were there, in this moment he believed in his deck and his little brothers life depended on them.

"Watch your tone," he snapped.

"What have I got a leash too now," I retorted.

"If the collar fits," he sneered. "Let me play you for the right reasons," he said looking at Yugi now. I noticed Yugi had turned into the spirit again. Téa noticed too.

"Kaiba I accept your duel, let's see what you've really learnt, you just name the place."

"Our duelling field is prepared, follow me," he said as he turned and walked, we all followed him. Kaiba took us to the roof.

They duelled using Kaiba's technology; it was a rough duel it all went downhill after Kaiba's Sagi the Dark Clown and the virus trap card making it so Yugi/ the Spirit couldn't play any monster with over 1500 attack points.

Then Kaiba played his blue eyes ultimate dragon, but the spirit came through with Kuriboh of all monsters. By using multiply, but as he seemed on the verge of losing Kaiba did something that make me know that Mokuba was in danger, he stood on the ledge if he lost his balance he would fall and ultimately die a horrific death.

"he reborned one of the blue eyes heads, the spirit could win by attacking one of the rotten heads, but if he didn't Kaiba would attack next turn winning the duel, but the wouldn't risk Kaiba falling would he. I could see Yugi in the Spirit's eyes.

The spirit called an attack, and as he did so Téa ran towards him yelling that he couldn't do this.

He fell to the floor, as Yugi regained his body and yelled.

"STOP!"

The Celtic Guardian stopped his attack and Kaiba wiped him out, I could see Yugi's shoulders shaking and ran to him.

"Yugi, it's ok we'll win some more," I soothed placing a hand on his back. I could see the wet circles on the ground.

"Yugi!" I heard the others yell as they ran to him.

"It's ok man," Joey said.

"I almost couldn't control it," Yugi stammered. "This other presence deep inside me he was willing to go all the way against Kaiba!"

"Another presence, inside you?" Joey said confused.

"What do you mean?" Tristan asked him gently. "What the heck you talking about buddy."

"Come on you guys are you the oblivious? The duel with the ring spirit and the two Yugi's, our Yugi and that spirit." I said.

"I can never duel again." Yugi whispered.

"You did the right thing, you couldn't hurt another person, not even to save him. He wouldn't want that," Téa said.

"Well then I guess he got what he wanted," Kaiba said.

"He spared you!" I yelled getting to my feet, my own tears falling. "He showed you compassion! Which is more than what you deserve!"

"He lost the game –"

"The game? Yugi may have lost one stupid duel monsters game, but at least he hasn't lost his heart. Not like you Seto Kaiba. You've spent so much time around your machines you've forgotten what being human is! Yugi has us win or lose, what do you have Seto Kaiba! What do you have at the end of the day? Tell me! TELL ME!"

"I've had enough of you leech!" he bellowed. "You have no idea what I have lost – I'll tell you what I have, I have Mokuba, he is all that I have left. I will do anything to protect him, I failed…" he stopped, then smirked. "At least I am not a leach to a family that would have been better off without me," he said coolly. I was no longer in control of my body, I ran towards him my first ready in this moment. I didn't care he could just push me away. I wanted to hurt him. For Yugi, for Grandpa… and for myself. He grabbed my hand and pushed me to the side, I stumbled and screamed as I realised I was about to go off the side of the castle.

I began to fall when I was jolted to a halt, a strong hand and grabbed my wrist. I looked up to see Kaiba hanging over the roof, my terrified expression seemed to wound him.

"Mana!" everyone yelled.

"Do not let go!" Kaiba yelled to me. "And do not look down."

"Too late," I called back, grabbing his arm with my other hand.

"Mana, we're going to pull you back up!" Joey yelled.

"On three," Tristan bellowed.

"Three!" Tristan and Joey yelled, Kaiba's torso disappeared as I rose.

"Three!" they yelled again, my arm and head was above the wall I would see Joey, Trsitan, Yugi, Bakura and Téa all pulling at one of Kaiba'a body parts.

"Three!" Tristan and Joey yelled again, bringing my torso onto the roof. Teea and Yugi rushed forward and dragged my shirt bringing me firmly back onto the stone roof.

We all collapsed and lay panting for a moment.

"Thanks guys," I panted.

"Come on lets get off the roof," Téa said starting to get up we all followed her down and out of the door. I paid attention to Yugi, he hadn't said a word. Once we were outside the others seemed to realise he was still down.

"Yugi," Joey

"Come on, Yugi,"

"Why won't he answer us?" Téa said.

"I've never seen him like this," Tristan added anxiously.

"Well he did just lose his only chance to save his grandfather." Bakura said.

"Yugi let us help you," Téa said softly, we stayed silent waiting for a response. Then it clicked. He was thinking about the spirit and how he had nearly risked Kaiba's life.

"Argh we have to do something Joey," Téa

"Yeah, alright I'm going. It's ok Yug, you just lost a few star chips is all, here take mine. I owe yah big time for getting me this far. Take um. Come on pal what do you say, lets go kick Pegasus's sorry butt and get your Grandpa back. Go on YUg I want you to have them."

More silence. Getting worried Joey picked Yugi up by the collar of his shirt.

"Come on Yug, snap out of it you're really starting to scare me man."

"Joey!" Téa said running.

"I'm trying to help yeh, here pull yerself together,"

"Take it easy, Joey," Bakura cautioned.

"Huh if this is how you treat your friend I can't wait to see how you treat your enemies," a familiar feminine voice sounded.

"It's Mai," Téa said as we all turned around.

"What's up? If you guys have enough starchips to get into the castle then why you hanging around here?" she asked.

"It's Yugi he lost his star chips to Kaiba and now it's like he's lost the will to go on," Joey explained looking at Yugi anxiously.

"So the little guys finally lost one huh, lucky for you guys I came by. Ok now listen up especially you Yugi. You got beat but that doesn't mean it's the end of the world. When I got beat I thought it was over for me too, but then Yugi stepped in and saved my star chips, and now I am returning the favour." She said showing them seven stars.

"No way," Téa gasped.

"You said it, without those you can't win the prize money."

"I being kind, not stupid," Mai said flatly, as she showed us her complete glove. "Now go on Yugi, you know I owe you so take them… Hello earth to Yugi star chips at twelve o'clock. What are my star chips not good enough for you. Fine! Then I'll keep them and your friends can wipe your nose all the way back to the nursery, grow up. Sometimes you win sometimes you lose."

"Mai don't get mad, you just don't understand," Téa said.

"Oh I understand," she said. "Your friend lost one lousy duel and now he's too chicken to play again. Isn't that right, how pathetic –"

"Mai sorry to interrupt you there but I need a quick word with my brother," I said sweetly clasping Yugi's upper arm and dragging him to the side. "Talk amongst yourselves," I said to the stunned group. "Alright Spikes," he snapped his head up at my old nickname for him. "Listen up, I know why you're like this, it's because of what the Spirit almost did. Am I right?"

He gave a hesitant nod.

"He just wants what is best for you, and you are strong enough to keep him at bay until he learns how to behave in the modern world, think about it Yug, he was trapped in that thing for around 5000 years he is going to be damn grateful to whoever lets him out. And the best way to thank you is to get Grandpa back."

"But –"

"No buts, plus he has access to your memories right?"

Yugi nodded again.

"Well then tell him to do as you ask or he'll have me to deal with, and he knows he doesn't want to piss me off. So Spirit go against his wishes and you face my wrath."

"You think it's safe to duel?" Yugi asked me looking at me with his big amethyst eyes.

"Course I do, or I wouldn't be telling you to you daft muppet," I said shaking his hair.

"Thanks Mana," he said grinning at me, we went back over to the group who were watching us.

"Sorry about that, but you were wrong Mai," Yugi said. "It wasn't because I lost, it's the fact I almost didn't, I nearly lost myself to win and that's what scared me. Thank you Mai," he said as she put the chips in his hand.

"Come on you losers, the last one to the castle door is a rotten egg." Mai said.

"Gang way!" Joey yelled sprinting.

"No you gang way!" Téa called after him.

"And Tristan takes the lead," Tristan called.

"Unlikely," Mai laughed.

"Yeah, cause I will," I said shooting past.

I waited at the top until everyone was up.

"Alright Pegasus's castle,"

"Oh no," Kemo said. "No way you brats won ten star chips each."

"Oh boy," Téa sighed.

"Get lost this isn't a club house, it's a place reserved for the duelling elite,"

"Hmm I guess that means we'll fit right in," Mai said as she, Yugi and Joey showed him there glove.

"Would you mind telling housekeeping that I like my pillows extra fluffy." Joey said walking past him.

"You're a doll," Mai said, she put all of her chips into the door.

"Last one and vwala," she said as it opened.

"At last were finally at the castle," Yugi said, we all began to walk in when Kemo king of goons clicked on.

"No, no, no, you haven't enough star chips there, you three don't even have gloves."

"But you have to let us in were the cheerleaders," Téa said.

"Cheer what?" Kemo began to rant so I cut in.

"Look my back is black and blue from your little stunt yesterday, so unless Pegasus wants a law suit because his goons kidnapped and injured me, I suggest you let us all in."

"Wait what?" Mai said, looking at me anxiously.

"No star chips, no entry, you shouldn't have got into matters that didn't concern you." he growled.

"Are you saying you couldn't so us this one little favour, not even for me." Mai said seductively.

Ha, I loved feminine charm. He was all flustered, we ran forward and made our way inside Mai shut the door behind her. Joey put the bolt over it as we all laughed as we heard Kemo banging outside.

"There's no time to waste," Yugi said.

"You heard the man lets go," Joey said as we all started running. We continued down the hallway till we came to a balcony where leaning on the rail was no other than Banded Keith.

_**Sorry it's so late life, midterms, life. **_


	17. The World of the Posh Camp Soulstealer

"Hey isn't that –"

"Banded Keith," Joey flinched for Yugi. "I can't stand this guy,"

The sunglass wearing moron, stopped leaning against the balcony and looked at us.

"Well what do you know, if it isn't big Joey and his crew of duelling dummies."

"You slime bucket, I've been waiting to find you ever since you left us trapped in that cave!"

Joey ran forward trying to punch him.

"Missed me," he said, dodging him. "Whoops, too slow," he said holding Joey's fist in his own. "Can't you little grudge wait, cause the real action is about to start," he said nodding over the balcony.

"The real action," Joey said as we all looked, we saw Kaiba on the grey bridge.

"Yeah, the world champ versus Pegasus." Keith said. "I'd hope to get a crack at the old man myself but they save the best match till last."

"Are you saying those two are going to duel." Yugi asked.

"That's correct," said a new suit. "I'm Crocket chief tournament leason, congratulations on making it this far. Pegasus is so impressed he wanted to reward you with some entertainment. A special, exhibition match, I think you'll be quite in awe with what you're about to see. This match should give you an idea of what's in store for you all."

"So basically it's meant to intimidate us," Mai said. Go Mai! And here I used to dislike this woman.

"Why would Pegasus want to do that?" Crocket asked her.

"Cause he's a grade A nutcase," Joey said.

"Joey!" I scolded. "You think it you don't say it and then Pegasus will still here you with his soul snatching eyes, opps sorry," I said sarcastically. "It's not the eyes fault that it's owners crazy."

"Enjoy the match," Crocket said stiffly, walking away.

Kaiba took a hold of his duelling card necklace as the other doors opened, and Pegasus in all his camp glory came into view.

"Where's my brother," Kaiba snarled.

"What? No hello?" Pegasus said his hands help up as though he was about to shrug as he walked towards Kaiba. "No, how are you? I thought we were friends Kaiba boy. Don't tell me that my kidnapping Mokuba and ceasing control of your company has but a rift between us. It was nothing personal." He said putting his hands on his hips, his goons coming to a halt behind him, as Pegasus himself stopped walking a few feet from Kaiba. "Besides its not like I hurt your kid brother, he's perfectly safe. In fact you can have him back if you like, just beat me in a duel like we agreed and I'll hand him over. I mean one little victory shouldn't be a problem for the duel monsters champ."

"I can't believe I'm saying this but, I'm not hoping Kaiba loses this duel." Joey said. "I still say he's a first class jerk for everything he's put us through. But I can't help feel for him trying to get his brother back."

As far as I'm concerned anyone who stands up to Pegasus can't be all bad," Tristan said, we all nodded and hummed in agreement.

"Come now Kaiba, it's so gauche to keep us in suspense especially with an audience waiting in the wings." He said sending Kaiba's attention to us, his eyes widened as he saw our little group.

"Hey there, Kaiba," Yugi said.

"Yugi, how could you be here after I defeated you? I should have known you'd find a way."

"I hope your ready Kaiba I've been looking forward to this for quite some time," Pegasus said, turning all of our attention back on to him in all his red suited weirdness.

"Good," Kaiba said as he threw his new duel disc at Pegasus.

"Then you'll have no problem duelling with this," he said. Pegasus being the dramatic git that he is, lifted it looking at it as though it was the most confusing thing in the world.

"Well," Kaiba said.

"You want to duel me with your newest contraption, but I don't know how the silly devise even works do I spin it like a top or roll it like a ball." He said demonstrating the later, his goons chased after it.

"Cut the theatrics," Kaiba snapped.

"Oooh, Kaiba means business," Pegasus mocked. "Ok then how about we settle this like businessmen would. I'll agree to use your system if you agree to a request I have."

"What?" Kaiba said rightly suspicious.

"Nothing that would change the game of course, I just want someone to operate your little devise for me."

"I smell a rat." Kaiba yelled.

"I assure you I'll still make all the strategic decisions the game play won't change at all."

"So why the request? Why not fight your own battles for once in your life," Kaiba said. Pegasus clapped.

"Show Kaiba the lad who'll play as my pawn and he'll understand my request." He said making me apprehensive what was the bastard playing at, I had a horrible feeling in my stomach. The doors opened confirming my disgusting suspicion there were two goons and chained up was...

"Mokuba!" Kaiba yelled in relief. "It's me." he said but Mokuba's blank expression didn't alter.

"Somethings not right," Yugi said looking at Mokuba anxiously.

"It's like he's hypnotised," Téa said, my brain clicked. No… Surely not… It couldn't be…

"I apologise if he doesn't seem quite like himself. But I find my captives are far easier to manage after I make an extraction of sorts."

"You monster!" Kaiba bellowed, Pegasus chuckled.

"Now Kaiba boy, petty insults aren't the way to get your brothers soul back." he said showing him a card with Mokuba on it. He laughed making my blood boil.

"What does Pegasus mean?" Mai said in confusion, but I was too angry to explain.

"You bastard!" I screamed over the side. "First Grandpa, now Mokuba! What sick twisted game are you playing!"

"Ah it seems young Mana has a soft touch for your brother, Kaiba boy. Despite the way you treat her like the largest vermin to walk the earth," everyone who didn't know about Pegasus power gasped about how he knew that. "But of course it is ironic, that _she _of all people would feel an attachment to him, risk her life for him."

Kaiba snarled at him, I had never seen him so angry in my entire life. Pegasus chuckled again. "Beat me in a duel and I'll release him as promised. But fail, and not only his soul remain in bondage but yours will join it."

"Defeat you, I'll crush you!" he snarled, his fists clenched.

"So it's settled then we'll use your new invention, but your brother will operate it for me."

"Wait Pegasus," Kaiba said.

"What's the matter Kaiba boy, this was your idea. Using your own system is sure to give you the advantage, what's the problem?"

"He's been through enough already. Ok then Pegasus you win, we won't use it."

"But that's his edge," Yugi said.

"We'll duel on your terms just keep my brother out of this," Pegasus muttered something in Mokuba's ear then the goon took him away.

"You creep," Kaiba said.

"Watch yourself Kaiba, you're in my world now," he said his amused happy tone gone. He clicked his fingers then the entire bridge shifted, a duelling arena appeared from the ceiling.

"Wow, check out the automatic bridge," Joey said.

"Forget the bridge an entire arena's coming down," Téa said.

"That or the biggest elevator ever," Tristan said, making me roll my eyes.

"This should be good," Mai said as the arena set. "The two biggest legends in duel monsters going at it; this is what it's all about." Mai said. The arena connected to the bridge and they both walked into the little duelling booth.

"Ready Kaiba, your brother's fate hangs in the balance."

"Kaiba, you got to believe in the heart of the cards." Yugi said. "It's the only way to rescue, Mokuba."

"Keep out of this, I'm fighting this duel my way!" Kaiba yelled.

"Just don't forget it takes more than strong duel monsters and clever strategies to win this, that millennium eye Pegasus has changes everything you have to –"

"Yug, don't forget Kaiba's the guy that took five of your starchips." Joey said.

"So Mokuba should have to pay!" I demanded turning to Joey who recoiled back.

"Yugi, you're a good duellist, but I don't need your help it's my battle to fight and I will win." He said.

Pegasus toyed with him throughout the duel, then played that bloody toonworld card, by the time Kaiba clicked about Pegasus it was too late. Pegasus one the game and captured Kaiba too!

"Ah the brothers Kaiba," he said holding up both cards. "One in each hand, but even though their cards are so very close your souls have never been further apart. At least when I had Mokuba locked up you were in the same dimension. But now your worlds apart." He said before laughing. "Take away that empty shell," he ordered putting the cards away. "Teach it to wash dishes or something."

Two goons dragged Kaiba away.

"Ok, tell me I didn't just see what I think I saw." Joey said.

"Kaiba," Téa said sadly.

"He's gone too, just because he was trying to help his little brother out." Yugi said with tears in his eyes, Yugi held his face in his arms grunting in frustration.

"Yugi." Téa said.

"He was like us just wanting to save someone he cares for. Why Pegasus! Who are you to toy with our friends out families! I won't let you get away with it!"

Pegasus just looked amused. The slimy bastard. The Spirit returned.

"Pegasus It won't be long now till I put an end to your games."

"Yugi boy, don't forget you still have to make it through the remainder of this tournament to even win the privilege of challenging me."

"Rest assured I'll be at the finals but the true privilege will be defeating you and undoing all the evil acts you've committed against my friends."

"I look forward to your finest efforts Yugi boy, and wonderful performances from all finalist. You truly are the vest of the best the crème de la crème." He chuckled again before leaving us alone in the big room…

"Give me some of that cheese," Joey said.

"Yeah and some of that ham," Tristan assed as the both attempted to eat enough to make them combust.

"And that weird jelly looking thing," Joey said.

"If this was a duel munches competition. You two would win."

Crocket entered the room.

"On behalf of Mr Pegasus, I would like to congratulate the four finalists and welcome them to this final phrase of the Duellist Kingdom Tournament. I trust you have your play of entry cards." He said a unanimous 'huh' filled the room. "In your invitation to the Duellist Kingdom you received these two cards Glory of the Kings hand and the Glory of the Kings opposite hand." he said showing two of the five cards from the invitations that felt like 20 years ago. The blank and treasure one, I suddenly understood the blank card and felt sick. "You must have one of these to participate in the final tournament, those without them will be disqualified."

"So that's what there for," I heard Yugi say.

"So each card reminds you of each prize. Glory of the Kings hand is needed to claim the three million dollar cash prize, the opposed hand card allows the winner to challenge Pegasus for the Championship.

"And will become your souls house if you lose," I muttered looking at Yugi anxiously. Crocket heard and cleared this throat. "What am I wrong?" I said challenging his glare with my own.

"To make tomorrows tournament interesting your host has added a special ingredient to your soup."

I saw the millennium eye floating in Yugi's soup.

"Ew! I knew he was sick and twisted but –"

"Mana, you're going to get yourself thrown out," Téa hissed.

"Mines eyeball free," Tristan said feeling around his soup with his spoon.

"Cause we're not competing," I told him.

"Open the eye and look inside of it if you will. Each of you has been randomly assigned a letter," they all unfolded the paper inside I could see Mai's B and Keith's C. "Now the islands computers will assign from the letter the duel match ups." The screen came down behind him.

"Gee I wonder who's going to have to face who." Téa said.

"And tomorrows duel are as follows A vs B, C vs D."

"Who has C," Joey yelled standing up.

"Me runt," Keith said.

"Alright it's payback for trapping us in that cave."

"Once I crush you, you'll wish you were still there,"

I tuned out of the conversation not paying attention to anything else I began to eat the soup again.

As we all left the room to go to our rooms I grabbed Joey.

"Here, I don't need it," I said handing him the card.

"Really,"

"Yeah, but I want whatever's left from the surgery," I said winking at him.

"That's enough of the lovely dovey stuff. Now can someone tell me what was going on with Kaiba and his little brother?"

The group all looked at me, I sighed.

"Ok you know that thing with Panic where it got all weird with the fire then I fainted?"

"Yeah,"

"It's to do with that," I laughed nervously. "Sit down Mai." It look a little under an hour, but I explained everything to her, her denial and realisation.

"I still can't – I mean I do. I've seen it first hand, but…"

"It's hard to wrap your head around," Yugi said understandingly.

"Poor Mokuba," she said sadly.

"Yeah," Yugi sighed.

"We should head to the rooms, you three have a big day tomorrow." Téa said. The group nodded, we started walking. Just one more day, tomorrow will change everything. Whether it was good or bad, I dreaded the answer.


	18. Dreams and Duels

Feeling it was better to be safe than sorry I locked it and put a chair there. I was being paranoid, but I think I am entitled to be. What with the soul stealing and sibling-nabbing.

_The young spirit was laughing as I lay on the ground. Offering a hand to help me up, I huffed at him getting up myself accessing my bloody knees. _

"_You ok, Mana," he said concerned._

"_It stings a little bit, but I am ok," _

"_What do you want to do?" he asked me. _

"_I want to play…"_

–

Gasping I shot from the bed.

Knock knock knock.

Tugging my pyjama shorts down a little more, and grabbing the light as a weapon. I opened it.

"Oh, what's up guys." I said, putting my arm down Tristan eyed the lamp.

"I was kidnapped yesterday by a guy who lives in this castle." I pointed out leaning against the door. the three of them were still in the normal clothes.

"Tristan thinks that Pegasus is cheating in all his duels." Bakura said.

"Well duh, the millennium eye, you're wasting your time Tristan, go back to sleep." I shut the door.

Resting against the door for a moment, I pushed off, relocking the door and putting the chair back. climbing into the bed. I closed my eyes mentally preparing myself for the day ahead…

The group went to wake Joey in the morning once he was up and dressed we headed for Yugi.

Joey knocked on the door.

"Hey," Joey said as Yugi opened it, he was it was us and he smiled.

"Hey Yugi." Téa said as we all walked into his room.

"How are you guys doing?" he said.

"Aren't you ready? You're going to be late." Said Téa

"And if you're late –"

"Joey, I think he knows." I said smirking at them.

He changed. I hoped Yugi allowed him to help us. He caught my eye and smiled.

"Let's do it," he said putting on his jacket.

"We'll have your Grandpa back in no time," said Téa

"We'll have to cheer you from the balcony." said Tristan.

"Good luck to you and Joey,"

"Well guys, I guess this is it." said Téa, we stood away from them both. "I'm so proud, kick some butt."

"In Pegasus and Keith's case literally, please." I said, before hugging them both. "Good luck." I whispered.

"Here they come," Bakura said.

"And now your host, Mr Maximillion Pegasus." Crocket said.

"Boo!" I whispered under my breath as he walked into view.

"Yugi, Joey, Mai and Bandit Keith," he said with his two main men Crocket and Kemo by his side. "I welcome you to the last playoff arena. Here's where the last great duel monsters duels shall be waged to determine the championship of the duellist kingdom. Only one of you shall emerge victorious. Only one of you shall win the 3 million dollar prize. And of course the victor in the playoff shall win the right to challenge me in the final match."

"Challenge you now isn't that special, and what does the playoff winner get for defeating you in the final duel?" Tristan yelled.

"The victor will be granted 1 request whatever his or her heart most desires and if it is within my vast power to do so, their wish will be granted. The winner will also be declared the undisputed duellist kingdom champion ranked number 1 in the world."

"And boys that'll be me," Mai said.

"Surely any duellist who has come this far must realise that the title and not the money is the real prize. Is that not so?"

"Listen, you. The money's all I need for my sisters operation." Joey yelled to him.

"And you releasing the souls of the people you stole sounds about right too," I said to him directly. "Oh and while I have your attention, Kemo really did a number on my back. You know, when he kidnapped me and threw me around like a rag doll. A chiropractor won't go amiss either."

"Yes, yes I'm sure some of you have more riding on this tournament than others. Hmm Yugi."

"Twisted camp bastard!" I snarled under my breath, I felt Tristan squeeze my shoulder

"All right, let's get this show on the road. Only one of you will emerge –"

"Yeah, yeah we get it. Just go already." I yelled. How many times where we going to hear that self-obsessed moron talk!

"I wish you all good fortune, shuffle your decks and may the best duellists win." Pegasus said as though, I hadn't spoken and sat down.

"The first duel will now begin," Crocket said. "Mai Valentine verses Yugi Muto. Duellists please proceed to the arena. Before we begin you must both show me the card required for your participation."

Yugi and Mai showed one of their cards.

"You both qualify, the duel may proceed."

"Go Yugi," Téa yelled as I felt a push.

"Joey?"

"Hey,"

"Joey," Tristan

"What's with you Joey?" Téa said.

"What I was just getting the birdseye view of the action. Go Yugi! Wipe the floor with her man."

"Remember what I told you!" I yelled.

Yugi really fell into trouble, he was just too busy trying to finish the game as quickly as possible. I guessed even though the spirit looked in control he had Yugi, marking him up and making decisions. I could see the internal struggle. I could tell Pegasus could see it too. The mirror wall really started badly for him. He just kept slipping up.

Thankfully, he woke up just in time. Mai's encouragement really got his head in the game. In the end Mai surrendered and gave another great speech.

I hoped we would catch up soon. She was alright. In the end.

"The first match of these play offs has come to a close." Crocket said as the screen came back down darkening Mai's picture. And boasting Yugi up the square above. "Yugi Muto has emerged victorious over Mai Valentine. He will advance to the next round."

We all cheered.

"Wait to go, Yugi!" Tristan yelled. We all looked as Pegasus began to clap. Pegasus chuckled again standing up.

"Well done, Yugi, superb duel. You certainly know how to put on a good show."

Bloody tosser was still clapping.

"What a creep," Tristan said.

"The king," I agreed glaring down at him. He hummed under his breath then sat back down.

"Proceed."

"The second match of these playoffs will begin shortly Bandit Keith will battle Joey Wheeler. Prepare your decks."

"Me? Now?" Joey said. "Boy that was sure quick."

"Joey you're going to do fine," Bakura said.

"Come on, don't worry." Said Téa.

"Thanks, guess I'm kind of nervous." Joey said.

"Yeah you got a few reasons to be," Tristan said grabbing Joey.

"Tristan shut up you goof ball. Joey knock um dead. You've done it before."

Joey walked off, not long later the doors slammed as Yugi joined us. I gave him a hug.

"Good job." I whispered, he grinned at me. I looked back down at Joey to see Keith wasn't there.

"Go Joey!" Téa yelled, as Joey turned to face an empty box on the other side. I scanned for him. He was napping on the couch! And of course, Joey got worked up.

"What are yer doin'! Get over here!" he yelled at him.

"Hey chill out, the pummelling will commence as soon as I'm good and ready. So don't get your brief's in a bunch. You got that blondie."

"You're blonde too, moron!" I yelled.

"Tournament verification cards gentlemen," Crocket said.

Keith showed his from the couch.

"No problem, hey dweeb show the man your card."

"Sure, it's right…" he was feeling his pockets. Oh no.

"Tournament verification."

"I know." Joey said looking in his other pocket. "Give me a minute would you. I know it's here somewhere."

"Joey lost his tournament entry card." Téa groaned.

"He couldn't be that absent minded." Bakura commented.

"Yeah, he could," Tristan said, putting his hands in his hair.

"Well what a shame." Keith said. "I guess I won't be needing to get up off this couch after all. Huh Joey."

"Well don't get too comfortable. Cause once I find that card."

"If, if you find it. In the set time –"

"You have got to be kidding me." I exclaimed.

"Retrace your steps Joey, you sure you put it in your coat."

"Yeah I watched him do it." I said. Keith laughed I frowned he almost seemed to know. I bet he took Joey's card.

"I guess it could have fallen out in the room," Joey said. "I better head back there and check it out." he began to run back towards the rooms.

"Five minutes," Crocket called.

"For the love of all that is – you have _got _to be kidding me." I mumbled under my breath.

"What?" Joey yelled, skidding to a halt by the door.

"Joey! Just go!" I yelled, he took off through the doors.

"Hey would you mind if I took off my boots?" Keith said. I felt my nails in my palms. He defiantly had something to do with this. He was way too relaxed.

"Do as you wish, but if you're not in the duelling arena at the designated time then you will be disqualified too."

"Say what!"

Ha.

"Man you suits and your rules. Argh come on, can't be just disqualify that little punk right now. We all know he ain't coming back anyway."

"What's that mean?" Tristan practically growled.

"Your wrong, he'll be here," Téa said.

"Oh come on. Think about it. Your little friend been scared to death of me after out little run in back in that cave –"

"You know what knuckle head." I said hotly. "I bet you've hidden it somewhere. You seem a little too confident. And let's not forget who beat who in the cave."

"Mana's right, Joey has never backed down from a fight before and he's not going to start now. He'll be back. You'll see." Yugi said.

He chuckled again. "Believe what you want twerp. But there's only one minute left."

"Oh no," Téa said.

"He better hurry." Bakura said.

"Man what if he can't find that card."

Joey walked back, we all cheered.

"So punk, come back to give us the bad new huh?" Keith said. "Let me guess you couldn't find the card anywhere." He laughed. Joey lifted it up.

"What you talkin' about I got it right here." He said showing it just in time.

We cheered. Keith's shock confirmed my theory. But then… Mai.

The duel went ahead as planned there were some close calls for Joey. Keith's machine monsters were hard to beat and of course they were bloody magic resistant. He tricked Joey into some bonehead moves at times like when he lost his swordsman. It looked pretty bad when Keith slot machine kept getting the 7s it needed. However Joey being Joey managed to beat it using his grave robber card using red eyes black dragon to win the game. We all began to cheer.

"Joey Wheeler you are the victor," Crocket said.

"Yeah he is!" I crowed from the side lines. Tristan nearly toppled over the railing in excitement, Yugi and I quickly caught him.

"Goofball," I muttered he rubbed his neck sheepishly.

"This duel doesn't count." Keith yelled, slamming his fist. "The entry card Joey showed to play in this match wasn't even his therefore the duel shouldn't count and he ought to be disqualified."

"He's right, my card was missing so Mai gave me hers. But tell me Keith. How could you have known this wasn't my card? I'm all ears. So why don't you explain yourself."

Joey I freakin' love you. Total genius.

"He doesn't need to," Pegasus said. "It's clear Keith stole Joey's card, that's why he was so certain that you would never find it."

"You snake I knew it!" Joey said.

"That big cheat."

"Then Keith ought to be disqualified." Tristan said. "Not Joey."

"Oh Keith should be disqualified all right, but not just for misdeeds outside the duelling ring. There was a fair bit of improper conduct taking place during the match that I observed too."

"Is that so Keith," Joey said.

"Oh yes, Keith kept his set of 7 completed cards beneath his wrist band that way he could power up his slot machine monster whenever he choose. Take the scoundrel away."

Two goons grabbed him and began to tug him out of the arena.

"No! Let me go! Nobody makes a monkey o9ut of Bandit Keith! Nobody!"

Pegasus started clapping. "Well done, Joseph. You should be quite proud you duelled admirably."

"Hey!" one of the goons yelled, Keith had escaped their grip and was jumping towards Pegasus little balcony.

"Pegasus!"

"You truly are a stubborn one aren't you," Pegasus said as he stuck the landing.

Keith took out a gun and pointed it at Pegasus. I froze we needed him alive to free Grandpa.

"Can it, you ain't talking your way out of this one. Now had over the prize money."

"Oh certainly Keith, I'll do whatever you say. Just give my body a moment to recover from the complete paralysis that your terrifying demands have shocked me into."

"Ok wise guy. I'll give you till three."

"Fine, one, two, three." Pegasus said, I saw his foot move then the tiles around his chair fell through Keith fell with them, there must have been a button.

"Now finalist for the next match will receive a ten minute recess. So rest up, out host wants you both in top form for your duel." Crocket said, Yugi and Joey looked at each other.

_**Hey guys please remember to review! **_


	19. Battles of Friends and Enemies

"The final playoff match between Yugi Muto and Joey Wheeler will not only determine who wins the tournament, but also who wins a match with Mr Maximillion Pegasus."

"Who would have guessed out of all the duellists who started in this tournament; two best friends would wind up in the final match." Bakura said.

"Yeah, this is defiantly harsh; at least one of them is going to be able to get a chance to take on Pegasus." said Tristan.

"I guess you're right, but couldn't they just flip a coin or something." said Téa. "We could get our match with Pegasus now."

"I don't think that it works that way Téa," said Tristan.

"Well why doesn't it," said Téa. "Joey and Yugi are like brothers they shouldn't be forced to fight like this."

"Téa, it's a competition they would have to even if it wasn't Pegasus." I said. I could see Joey and Yugi were talking but I couldn't hear what they were saying. I saw Yugi's head snap up and he looked more determined.

"Your gracious host will now make a few winning remarks."

"Oh boy," said Joey. I'm with you Joey. He cleared his throat.

"Congratulations duellists you're the finest in the world and for that reason I look forward to a match that is sure to consist of your duelling best. After all if you give me any less I will know."

"Yugi, before we start I just want to say thanks man. Just look at me I'm in the final match of the biggest tournament that's ever been thrown, and it's all because of you Bud. You and the other Muto's." he said giving me a thumbs up.

"Your wrong Joey, you earned your place here." Yugi said.

"Thanks pal, I just know that no matter what happens here you're my friend and you always will be Yug. But er, don't think that means I'm going to be easy on you in this match. Or that I expect you to go easy on me. I'm ready for your best. Let's do this!"

I was so proud of both of them. They gave their best and helped each other. Joey even played Yugi once or twice. When Joey had the black skull dragon it looked promising for him. The way he used grave robber and copycat was genius. However his enviable defeat came with the Dark Magician in the form of a very old man.

We were finally at the end of the tournament! Yugi won! Grandpa we are coming!

"Well Yugi, we knew one of us was going to lose, but the good news is one of us got to win too. Congratulations man. Mana here I don't need this anymore. He handed me the card of glory.

"Joey, the prize money is Serenity's. Can't you remember two days ago. I mean so little has happened." I teased nudging him.

"Group hug," said Téa.

"Good luck Yugi," said Tristan.

"Now go take down Pegasus," Joey said when we broke apart.

"Remember if there is a way to beat his eye it's to do with the puzzle." I said. Yugi nodded, turning into the Sprit and walking down the stairs towards the arena.

We saw him walk toward his box.

"He looks so determined," said Téa.

"Yugi, take him down!" Tristan yelled.

"Put that slime bucket in his place." Joey called.

"The challenger has entered the stadium, and now for your duelling pleasure –"

"And living nightmare," I muttered.

"Castle Pegasus is proud to present the creator of Duel Monsters and all its wondrous cards the undefeated and undisputed ruler of the Duellist Kingdom Maximillion Pegasus."

Pegasus walked out with two goons at either side. It looked like one was carrying his deck on a pillow.

"And now let the duel begin," said Crocket. Aargh the way he beckoned the goon with his finger. I hated him. He walked forward.

"So Yugi boy, you've turned out to be quite the young duellist. Finding your way past all the other challengers, winning your way into the castle just to face me."

"Pegasus," the Spirit bellowed pointing at Pegasus. "Before we begin this duel, I want you to agree to keep your promise that if I defeat you." he clenched his stretched hand. "You'll release my grandfather's soul to me."

"But of course, I'm a man of my word."

"And that's not all. You must also free the souls of Seto and Mokuba Kaiba."

"What a strange demand." He said. "I thought you hated Kaiba as much as you hated me, Yugi."

"Maybe I need to keep a vow of my own, Pegasus."

"Oh I see, I vow to Mokuba." He said, I clenched my fist mind reading bastard. "Ok, Yugi boy, if it will put your mind at ease I will agree to your terms. You win your battle with me I shall free these three from there lonesome imprisoned souls."

"Pegasus is up to something," Tristan muttered.

"I know," said Joey. "I think he planned on playing Yugi in the final match all along."

"He's after something that's for sure." Said Téa

I hope that Yugi can handle him," said Bakura. "Throughout the entire tournament Pegasus as stacked the deck in his favour every step of the way."

"You're kidding me, Yugi's gunna kick his keister. When this is all over Yugi's going to be the undisputed champion. Pegasus won't have a clue what hit him."

"Joey's right, I know it," said Téa.

"Hmm I don't know," Tristan hummed.

"You can't have such a negative attitude, guys Yugi's counting on us too." said Joey.

"But Pegasus never plays fair. He started by kidnapping Yugi and Mana's Grandpa, and going into this final match we have no idea what tricks he's going to pull."

"Whatever tricks he tries, whatever card he plays. Yugi will overcome them. Yugi hasn't come all this way to lose the final match." Said Téa.

"Look at him. No way that overdressed pre-Madonna's got a chance against our buddy," said Joey.

"Maybe," Tristan murmured.

"Trust me, Yugi's no Kaiba. He's gunna beat this clown."

"There just about to draw their first cards,"

"Quick bathroom trip," I said, Joey and Téa nodded.

When we came back I noticed Tristan had gone.

"Where's Tristan?"

"He probably got lost on the way to the John." Joey waved my concern off and leaned over to see what was happening. I could hear Crocket's voice. Were they still talking!

"Yes but if I am the one who defeats you instead; you have to fore fill your end of the bargain as well. Take a close look at the cars you hold Yugi boy, there is a reason that it's blank you know. For if I win, I claim your soul forever."

I gasped, that disgusting red pompom!

"So you see you have much to gain, but much to risk as well."

"It's a risk I am willing to take to free my Grandpa and the others, but I don't plan to lose."

"We shall see,"

"We will indeed Pegasus."

"So courageous, so defiant –"

"Did you hear that?" Téa cried blocking out Pegasus. "If Yugi loses, Pegasus will steal his soul too."

"What a creep, but even knowing what's on the line, Yugi's still isn't going to back down." Said Tristan.

"True," Bakura joined in. "His betting his own soul on the outcome."

"That's our Yugi, he'll do anything for anybody." Said Joey.

"Yes but this is the biggest gamble I have ever seen anybody take in duel monsters," Bakura said as he did so a large tablet of the dark magician jumped to the front of my mind.

"You ok Mana?" said Tristan putting a hand on my shoulder. My lungs were working in overdrive, the panting was obvious. I took a deep breath trying to tame my reaction.

"I'm fine," I gasped.

"I hate to disappoint you Pegasus, but I have no intention of becoming a part of your collection."

"The final duel will now begin, the winner will be declared the king of games." The two men were lowered into the ring. "Now both of you cut and shuffle your opponent's cards."

They shuffled, well Yugi did Pegasus just tapped it. "Now the cards will be returned. The scores reset and –"

"Duel!" they both cried.

From the word go Pegasus was telling us what cards and strategies that the Spirit was using. He toyed with him, the same way he did Kaiba. After a few turns it showed it's ugly head as he drew the Dark Magician. Then I thought of something.

"Yugi! I know how to stop him reading your mind, you need to – "

"I don't know how you have come across a way it is impossible, second even if you have outside help will cause an automatic disqualification, then Yugi boys soul will belong to me." I growled in a similar way to the Spirit. This was so irritating.

"Have you really figured out a way?" Joey asked me.

"Yes, but I wish I had earlier. And I wish beyond anything that Yugi or the Spirit would."

To try and distract Pegasus I tried projecting my feelings for Pegasus to him, a few minutes later he looked in our direction.

"Oh Mana girl, that is so crude!" he said looking at me in amusement. "Oh and before you think to overpower me you all yelling at me mentally the millennium eye can block it if I so desire, but your thoughts amuse me, Mana girl,"

I growled at him furiously. The spirit desperately tried magical hats, but it wouldn't work unless he realised what I had.

"I know Pegasus has magic! But so do you the magic of you millennium puzzle!"

I saw his eyes widen. Pegasus attacked the virtual smoke blocked the Spirit from view when it cleared I saw. _**  
**_"Yes you did it you worked it out! Nice one guys!" I cheered. "Ha Pegasus they didn't even need my help!"

Yugi smiled up at me giving me the thumbs up.

"Maybe you probed the wrong mind, one which doesn't know where the Dark Magician hides. Or maybe your mind probing powers aren't as all seeing as you think."

"Go Yug!" I called laughing.

"You dare mock the awesome power of my millennium eye," Pegasus said furious. "You go too far, Yugi boy."

"Hey you have any idea what's going on?" Joey asked.

"He worked out a way to stop Pegasus. There are two souls in Yugi's body, Yugi's and the Spirit of the puzzle. Normally when duelling they work together as one. But to fight Pegasus they have to trust each other and be flexible. The Spirit knows where the Dark Magician is, Yugi doesn't."

"So by keeping their minds separate, they can beat him," said Téa.

I looked down to see Yugi play a card, once he did the Spirit returned. The game was much more fun to watch now, Pegasus began to flounder. After Pegasus's missed again when the Spirit returned he chuckled. When they were I trouble Yugi came and used one of his cards, taking out a toon monster. Pegasus was having kittens, it was pretty funny to watch.

We shouldn't have mocked him so much. Pegasus decided it was time to take the game to the shadow realm. The purple smoke covered them.

"No!" I yelled.

"Where'd they go?" gasped Téa.

"They went to another dimension, the shadow realm," I said.

"Hey, how about a hand?" I heard Tristan's voice. We all turned to see him carrying Bakura and Mokuba.

"Tristan, where have you been?" Téa demanded.

"You wouldn't believe it, I've had an adventure and a half today." He said as he put them both down.

"What happened to those two?" Joey asked.

"Evil Spirit took over Bakura again even though I got rid of it." Tristan looked up. "What's going on here?"

"You go first," said Joey.

"I freed Mokuba, but then Bakura tried to grab him."

"Why did he want Mokuba, detail man." Said Joey, as I stared at Mokuba's poor soulless body.

"He wanted Mokuba as his new host body," said Tristan. I clutched Mokuba to me. "Don't worry I handled it, so what's the story with the indoor thunderstorm?"

"Pegasus took Yugi and the Spirit to the shadow realm, come on leys see if we can get in." I said running towards the doors to the arena platform.

"And then Pegasus was losing and he started ranting something about a shadow game, and this thing came out of nowhere. I think there still inside." Joey finished explaining to Tristan.

"They are," I said, frowning at the purple smoke.

Burning pain shot through my heart, I looked up to see everyone was clutching their heart.

"You felt it too huh?" Joey grunted.

"Yeah, a sharp jolt right in my heart, I have the strangest feeling something bad has happened to Yugi." Said Téa.

"I think our little buddies in big trouble," said Joey, staring at the smoke.

"I know," said Tristan.

"You felt it too?" Joey asked.

"Yeah, maybe because we've become so tight we've developed some kind of weird link to him." said Tristan.

"Yeah, but if were feeling what he's feeling it must be really bad in there." Téa said anxiously.

"If only there was some way that we could help him." Joey.

Téa ran at the wall.

"Téa don't!" we cried. But she was just flecked back out.

"Huh, what happened?" Joey asked.

"I'm not sure," said Téa putting her hand in and it appearing beside her.

"So what do we do now," Joey said.

"Stand back," Tristan ran at the orb he came back the same way Téa did.

I took a deep breath and placed my hand on the ball.

"Yugi! Can you hear me! Yugi!" I yelled.

"Mana," I heard Yugi gasp.

"Hang in there, both of you. Pegasus bring them back!" I yelled furiously.

"How are we able to hear her," I heard Pegasus say before I felt a sharp serge of dark energy, shooting me backwards by at least 5 metres.

"Mana," they guys gasped.

"I'm ok," I said getting back up. "For some reason I am the only one that can get through I have to support them." I put my hand back on the shadow game sphere. "Heart of the Cards, Yugi! You too Sprit! You guys can win this beat his pompous ass!" I felt another strong serge forcing me further than before I could feel my energy draining, but I continued on.

"I don't know what your dark illusion eye holds –"

"Were all with you, believe in each other remember what you are fighting for!"

"I can hear you panting, you're close to the edge, turn back girl," Pegasus snarled.

"Are you alright?" the Spirit asked anxiously.

"Yeah, but I can't do this for much longer." I felt another serge of dark energy stronger than before it stole the last of my energy as I shoot back I felt my consciousness slip…

A sharp pain jolted me into consciousness.

"Yugi!" I bellowed standing back up.

"He's hurt or worse," said Téa.

"This is too freaky I can't feel Yugi at all it's like he's banished of the face of the planet."

"Grab my hand now!" I barked.

"What?" said Joey.

"All of you quickly, Yugi's ,mind has been thrown to the shadows. The only way to get him back is for the Spirit to win. And the only way for the Spirit to win is –"

"To stop Pegasus from entering his mind," said Téa putting her hand in Joey's and Tristan's. I did the same.

"We need to form a barrier, I'll need some of your energy."

"Take what yah need, Mana." Said Joey.

"Close your eyes, imagine a solid wall, and think of Yugi."

I had to force my way through the shadows, but I found myself and the others in a room.

"Yugi!" Téa cried running to the unconscious figure on the floor.

"Ok we're in their head, Joey, Tristan help me guard. Téa do not let go of Yugi no matter what."

"Mana?" the spirits voice gasped.

"We're your blockade," I said. I heard a rumbling through another chamber.

"Ok guys brace yourselves he's coming."

Dark purple mist swarmed towards us. Put lifted up away from our barrier.

"Impossible, inconceivable my millennium eye is being blocked. This can't be. My powers are totally unstoppable. I should be able to scan your every thought and strategy. I should be able to see each and every card in your deck."

"Not anymore, Pegasus," said Joey menacingly. "Not so long as we're here helping out buddy out, get out of his mind and stay out!"

"Thank you," said the Spirit. "Together we can stand against him."

"Pegasus you just don't get it," said Téa.

"You think your eye makes all the difference," said Joey.

"So get the hell out!" I grunted pushing him from his mind. He tried again a few minutes later. I needed more energy so I took the smallest amount I could from them. I could hear them gasp, fighting to resist taking more of their strength. I felt Yugi's soul return as. And as it did blackness…

_**Ok guys, what did you think, I had the idea she could talk because of her magic and the connection to the Shadow Realm from her past. Please review and I will try and update once finals are finished and I am back in England! **_


	20. Secret Room

My eyes opened, I saw the purple shadows fade.

"You guys did it!" I cried collapsing onto Yugi, trying to make it look like a jump.

I felt several more limbs entangle around us.

"Told you, you guys could do it," I whispered in his ear trying to take my own weight as everyone pulled out of the hug.

"You just take it easy, Mana," said Joey, holding me steady as my legs gave a little.

"What's wrong with her?" Yugi moved closer, his expression anxious.

"Now you've done it," I growled at Joey. "Yugi, I'm fine, you should be focusing on getting your strength back you almost fell victim to the shadow realm." I said.

"What's wrong with her?" he said again, completely ignoring me.

"Talking through that bubble the first time knocked her out she woke up and insisted that with us giving her strength we could help the spirit win. She said you were trapped so Pegasus was more likely to win and then you couldn't return, but at the end of your match as you returned she collapsed again." said Tristan.

"I'm fine," I hissed at them all, I felt my eyelids flutter my body getting heavier.

"Whoa," said Joey tightening his grip.

"Mana!" Tristan, Yugi and Téa cried. Yugi and Tristan helped him keep me upright and as much as I hated to admit it, it was the only thing keeping me standing.

"I'm fine," I slurred.

"Your argument is we should focus on Yugi, if I understand?" said a familiar deep voice. "He is resting and I am not tired by the duel. May I assist you, the rest of you have been put under some strain."

"That wasn't my point at all," I grumbled. The spirit chuckled, his hands still helping Joey and Tristan.

"Hand her to me Joey. I assure you she will not fall," he said, Joey looked at me for a moment then carefully passing me over, the spirit swung me up and carried me in his arms.

"Are you kidding me," I snapped at him, then felt another wave. I instinctively wrapped my arms around his neck. I felt safer than I did in all three of their arms. Was it because of the dreams I was having?

"She'll be too heavy to carry alone." Joey said his arms out anxiously expecting him to drop me.

"She is fine," he said calmly.

"Bloody Spirit," I muttered, correcting myself from saying Prince just in time.

"At least it's all over," said Tristan.

"Wait, lets not forget, Pegasus still needs to release everyone's souls like he promised." Said Téa.

"So lets go grab the creep," Tristan said. We all looked at the empty box across the arena.

"Why am I not surprised by this," Joey growled.

"Slippery double crossing snake, lets go." Said Tristan.

"But we can't leave Mokuba and Bakura alone," said Téa.

"Hey, up here, hello." Bakura said waving.

"Hey there, feeling back to normal?" Tristan yelled.

"Have I not been normal, Tristan. And what happened to Mana?"

"She didn't lean on us as much as she should have," Joey said frowning at me. I grinned sheepishly…

"Could you watch Mokuba for us,"

Wait? What? What happened? Did I black out again?

"Come on, lets go," Joey said.

"Put me down!" I yelled as the Spirit began to run with me. He leaned down and whispered.

"After you just fainted again, I don't think so,"

"Stick her on my back, we can get there faster," said Tristan crouching slightly. The Spirit walked behind him trying to guide me.

"This is –"

"Mana, you're just wasting time do it," Joey said. I sighed wrapping my arms around Tristan neck, careful not to choke him, thankful for my jeans as Tristan held my thighs forcing me to wrap my legs around him.

"Ok lets go," Tristan said. I turned to see the Spirit smile at me before Yugi reappeared.

They ran through the front and around the back finding our way onto the roof. What if we couldn't find him? He could have flown of the island by now.

"Don't worry Yugi, he couldn't have gone far," Joey said, I snapped my head up to look at them.

"We've got to find him Pegasus is the only one who can restore Grandpa's soul." Yugi said.

"Wait a minute," Téa said stopping.

"Why? What's the matter Téa," Yugi asked.

"That tower… it looks…" she put her hand on her chin.

"Yeah, go on," Yugi said.

"I think I've been there before with Tristan and Bakura, I vaguely recall a secret room. Pegasus's sanctuary maybe it was a dream but –"

"Only if we were both dreaming," Tristan said walking beside her, tightening his grip on me. "I'm starting to remember it too. Pegasus fought with Bakura, then Bakura's evil spirit came out, but why did we forget?"

"Evil Spirit," Yugi said as I heard Joey's confused huh from behind me, then he grunted.

"Yeah, I bet he cast a spell on yah!"

"Well we remember now," she said. "Lets go!" they took off running again. I could hear Yugi behind us.

"Hey wait up!"

We were almost at the base of the tower. I hoped he was –"

"No!" I could hear Pegasus cry.

"Did you hear that scream?" Tristan.

"It came from the tower," Téa

"Sounded like Pegasus," Joey said as we reached the stairs. Only to see Crocket and a suit carrying Pegasus, his hair was above his face and he was groaning.

"Look, something's happened?" Téa said.

"It's him," Yugi said, the three of them reached the bottom of the stairs. "Crocket, what happened to Pegasus?" Yugi asked.

"It's none of your concern." Crocket snapped. "He has suddenly taken ill."

"But what about Grandpa and the others? He promised he's free their souls. He promised."

"Not my department," Crocket said, walking after Pegasus and the suit.

"You lousy scrum bag," I yelled. "Tristan, put me down!"

"Did you have a look at Pegasus?" Joey said.

"Who or what could have done that to him?" Tristan said ignoring me.

"I don't know maybe we should check the tower," Téa said.

"So this is where Pegasus hangs out, whoever that woman is she sure is pretty," Joey said.

"Yeah," Tristan said.

"Hey," Téa said, picking up a book.

"Is that a diary," I said looking at it, something fell out of the pages. Yugi picked it up.

"Maybe we'll find something in here, listen to this. It's all about that lady."

"She's everywhere," Yugi said, I saw that the card he was holding held the same picture.

"Hey Tristan, put me down on the floor will you," I said, he actually did as I asked this time.

"She seems very important to him." Téa said, before starting to read. Pegasus's diary showed that Cecelia was the woman's name and she was his wife, she had died. It went on to tell us how Pegasus got the millennium eye and why he was doing what he was doing.

"I feel kind of sorry for him now," I said biting my lip, and closing my eyes. Why was I so drained?

"Look, three soul cards, and their all blank." Yugi said.

"Pegasus must have freed them!" Joey cried.

"Lets find out!" Téa said.

"Yeah!" Tristan went to pick me up again.

"No, just leave me here," I said closing my eyes.

Téa, Joey and Tristan ran off leaving me and Yugi.

"Come on Yug, lets go." Joey said.

"Hey wait for me!" he yelled before a flash of light on the stairs. I tried to get up.

"Who are you!" I heard Yugi say. "No stay back! What are you doing?"

"Yugi!" I yelled trying to crawl over.

I had almost gotten to the other side of the desk when I saw a man with a turban in a long robe, gold hanging off his ears.

"Where's Yugi?"

"Mana," he said his eyes wide as he rushed to kneel beside me.

"Where's Yugi?" I said again.

"Relax child, he is safe, waking up from the trance of being judged by the millennium key." He said.

"Do I know you?" I said confused, he looked fairly familiar to me.

"You have already located the Pharaoh just as the prophecy said!"

"Wait, I'm not going insane I am actually having these flash back thingys?" I said, maybe he knew what was going on.

"Yes, and I will retrieve your old things, you must practice immediately." He said, he touched my forehead and I felt a surge of energy, he helped me to stand, I could hold me own weight. I looked at him he had made some kind of portal using the purple shadow stuff Pegasus used in the his battle. "They will be in your room when you return home."

"Wait. I have more questions!" I yelled as he vanished.

Yugi came running up the stairs.

"Mana, are you ok?" he cried.

"Yeah, that guy helped me," I said. "He gave me some energy somehow, you know like a boost." I said, Yugi realised I was standing on my own.

"Awesome, but you won't mind if I hold your waist encase you fall again." Yugi said.

"Yes I do mind! I am perfectly fine Yugi Solomon Muto!" I was pleased when he cowered slightly. "Come on lets catch up with the guys. Check on Mokuba."

We ran back to the area hall.

"Is he ok?" I saw everyone hovering where Mokuba should be.

"Yeah, he's fine," Tristan said.

"Who would have though Pegasus would keep his word," Joey

"Yeah, go figure. So, how you doing Mokuba?" Yugi asked him. "You feeling up to getting off this island."

"Not without Seto," Mokuba said. "Where's my big brother?"

"He's here somewhere. We'll find him." I said soothingly, squeezing his shoulder.

"Yugi, Joey," we turned to see Crocket.

"Crocket," Yugi said.

"Due to his illness Mr Pegasus will be unable to attend –"

"You ask me, it's just a lame excuse –"

"Joey, shut up." I said. "You could see he was ill."

"The three souls have been rewarded, but in addition, there's this."

"What is it?"

"It's a card called the ties of friendship it's the only one of its kind, painted by Pegasus himself. I was instructed to deliver it personally to Yugi Muto," he said as Yugi took it. "Your now officially king of games." He went into the side of his jacket and took out the envelope. "This contains a check for the prize money. Won by Yugi Muto in his duel with Joey Wheeler."

"Wow that was today," I marvelled.

"It's all your Joey, just like I promised." Yugi said.

"You're the best Yug," Joey said.

"3 million dollars Joey," Téa said.

"For your sisters operation." Tristan added.

"Yeah, we've been apart for so long, but now I can save her from going blind."

"Now we'd like you all to leave," Crocket said, he walked off.

"Yugi," Téa suddenly burst. "I just realised if Mokuba's soul's been returned then maybe –"

"Yeah, it should mean that Grandpa's recovering too. I can't wait to get him out of that hospital." Yugi.

"We should head towards the beach," I said. "Kaiba may already be there."

"Maybe we should wait by the castle doors first," Joey said.

"Good idea," Téa said.

As we left the castle we saw the sun falling, wow what a day.

"Seto! Big brother!" Mokuba cried. "Seto it's me Mokuba!" as we walked out of the castle doors. Never to return again. "Where are you?"

The large doors opened to reveals.

"Seto!"

It was all worth it to see Mokuba run to him. I felt my eyes burn.

"Big brother you're here!" Mokuba cried. "You're here." I saw a look in Kaiba's eyes I had never seen before as he hugged his little brother. I wrapped my arm around Yugi's shoulder.

"It's all right," Kaiba said soothingly. Joey wiped his nose.

"Come on let's not get all mushy and gooey you know I can't take it." Joey said. Kaiba pulled Mokuba to arm's length, and crouched down.

"Oh Seto, I didn't know what happened to you but I never stopped thinking about you big brother." He said holding something around his neck.

"I know. I would have risked anything to save you, Mokuba."

"Mana, told me you risked a lot." Mokuba said. "Now were leaving together again, Seto."

"So what do you say little brother. Ready for me to take you back home where we both belong?"

"You bet," Mokuba said as Kaiba stood up.

"Thank you Yugi, thanks for saving my brother Mokuba's soul he means everything to me."

"How could I do anything else." Yugi said.

"And I am grateful, but just because of our circumstances our last duel wasn't really conclusive."

"Yes your right," Yugi said.

"One day we will met in the arena again to decide which one is the better duellist and one of us will walk away with pride. Come on Mokuba lets go, my copter is waiting."

"All right were going home," Mokuba said.

"I just thought of something all the boats have left," Joey said. "So how are we supposed to get off this island?"

We could hear the copter start. "We got to hitch a ride come on!" Tristan yelled as we all ran towards it. "Wait for us Kaiba!"

"And us too!" Yugi yelled we all took off in a sprint…

**_Super Sorry everyone I've been returning from America and my life has just blown up! My head of degree is being a git and it's been taking all my time trying to deal with him. Argh! Sorry hope you like please review! _**

**_Love JLC xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx_**


	21. Grandpa Out Kaiba In

It was dark the only light was the flickering lights next to Kaiba. The moon was only a slither in the sky. I turned towards the loud snores. Joey and Tristan were lying on top of each other mouths wide open. I smirked looking at my other friends. Everyone was asleep. Everyone, but me and Kaiba...

I turned and closed my eyes. I didn't want to talk to Kaiba. If I just tried to sleep we'd be home in no time. Grandpa would be out of hospital and everything would go back to normal.

The man with the turban and rings burned into my mind.

"_You have already located the Pharaoh just as the prophecy said!" _

Or was this just the beginning. I turned so I could look at Yugi. I smiled as his sleeping face. He turned the puzzle shone the light back in my face. I stared at it. We had so much to learn about that thing, and the Spirit inside…

What if it was all real? What if the last few nights dreams weren't just dreams. I remember the boy in my dreams. The warm sand. The hot sun...

_I was laughing a large bunch of flowers in my arms. I ran towards a teenage boy with long brown hair. He was me coming and smiled crouching down to my level as I finally reached him. _

"_I picked these for you!" I said pushing them in his face, he just smiled at me. _

"_Thank you, Mana," he said. Laughing I jumped into his open arms, snuggling close to him. _

"Look I can see Domino City!" a voice yelled.

"Yep looks like we're home," said another.

"Shh you two! You'll wake everyone." Said a female voice.

"Yeah cause the choppa won't do it," said the second voice.

"We're landing any minute anyway." Said a colder voice. Tristan. Joey. Téa. Kaiba. I opened my eyes to an orange world. My friends smiling out the window; my eyes locked onto the puzzle. I felt cold without the warm of that teenager. Who was he?

Kaiba brought down the helicopter at his tower. We thanked him and rushed to the hospital. Rushing to the floor he was on, before we could even see a nurse we saw him standing on his own at the end of the hall way.

"What's the matter you two? You're not surprised to see me up and about are you?" he smiled at us.

"Grandpa!" we both gasped.

"Hey Grandpa!" Yugi laughed as we rushed to him, hugging him with all out might.

"You're ok!" I cried.

"Of course I am," he said softly.

"I missed you," Yugi said.

"Me too. Ready to go home!" I asked him. He winked at me…

"So you saved me and became champion of the Duellist Kingdom, Yugi." Grandpa said after we explained the last three days.

"Well I didn't do it alone, Grandpa. Everyone helped." Yugi said smiling at all of us.

"That's right everyone pithed in," Joey said. "But he couldn't have done it without me."

"Well then, you've obviously improved since I last saw you duel." Grandpa said.

"Er, not that much," Tristan said.

"A little," Téa said, we all laughed at his face. I could feel the taxi come to a halt.

"Grandpa maybe you should go and lie down you did just get out of the hospital." Yugi said anxiously.

"Don't be silly," he said stretching his arms forward. "My mind was trapped in the shadow realm there is nothing wrong with me now. I'll go makes some snacks and hot chocolate. You kids can stay as long as you like." He added to Joey, Tristan and Téa. "Now," he said. "We just have one more piece of business to attend to, Mana could you stay in the taxi. I have a house guest who needs removing.

I nodded biting my lip. Yugi squeezed my hand.

Grandpa and Yugi headed into the shop entrance. I stayed with the guys. Not even ten minutes later we saw her leave with her case. She looked at the car, and then clip clopped to the blue car by the front of the shop got in and drove off. Yugi came out from the shop gesturing us all in...

"You ok Mana?" Yugi asked in the kitchen as we made snacks for everyone.

"I'm fine. I just haven't had the best sleep in the last few days." I muttered.

"Why?" he asked.

"Been having weird dreams." I mumbled staring at the bobbling marshmallow.

"What sort of dreams?"

My head snapped up.

"Spill. What do you know about this Yugi Muto."

"What –?"

"Don't even try. Tell me right now."

He gulped.

"In the Shadow Game - with evil Bakura. Well there were bits you were forced to forget." He stammered.

"What do you mean?"

"Well, you started saying things about ancient Egypt. And er – the spirit of the ring. He um…"

"He what?"

"He wiped your memories of the fact we were talking about how you lived the same time as the Spirit in the Puzzle… He said you would start dreaming memories."

"So I'm not going crazy."

"Nope," he said sheepishly.

"So the Spirit really is a Prince,"

"Yep, he says hi by the way."

"Can he hear everything?"

"No not everything. I mean he could if he wanted to but… he goes into the puzzle to think."

"Thanks Yugi," I smiled.

"He can also kind of stand next to me. You know like a transparent figure."

"Can you when you switch?"

Yugi nodded.

"Come on let's get this chocolate to Joey before he claims he's being starved." I said grabbing a few of the mugs. Yugi smiled and took the others…

"I'll take it put it on my tab Gramps."

"Your tabs past due Joey." Grandpa said.

"Then put it on Tristan's."

I laughed.

"Hey," Tristan protested.

The door opened, we turned to see Mokuba, completely soaked. Lighting struck behind him.

"Please, please help me." he croaked. I ran to him, putting my arm around his shoulders and guiding him inside.

"Mokuba," Yugi gasped.

"Yugi get him a blanket, and some of your clothes. Grandpa could we have another round of hot chocolates." I asked.

Both nodded and went to do their respective jobs.

"Mokuba follow Yugi upstairs he'll get you some dry clothes then we'll talk ok," I said. He nodded.

"Thanks Mana,"

Mokuba came down stairs in one of Yugi's old shirts and some trousers that were a little too long. As soon as he walked back into the sofa Grandpa handed out the hot chocolates. Once he was warm, comfortable Mokuba began to tell us what happened.

"So you're saying the only way Kaiba can escape is by winning the game." Yugi said, after Mokuba had finished.

"But if those creeps reprogrammed the entire adventure," Téa said leaning her arms on the sofa behind me, "just to keep Kaiba trapped there how is that possible?"

"I don't know, but I thought you could help." he said.

"Calm down, Mokuba. We will. We will." Grandpa said.

"Will you two stop hovering," I snapped at Joey and Tristan. "Sit on the floor or something."

They did.

"Now tell us some more about this virtual pod your brother was designing." Grandpa continued.

"I don't know much," Mokuba admitted. "I was pretty young when he started it. I remember him spending endless hours working on prototypes trying to make it perfect."

"Prototypes," Joey said. "So there are other ones?"

"Hnhm, in his lab. It was my brothers dream to create a world ultimate virtual adventure land, but those corporate jerks have turned it into a nightmare." I saw his eyes get watery so I pulled him into another hug.

"Lousy suits," Joey said crossing his arms. "We'll show them like we did Pegasus."

"That's right," Yugi said standing up, and raising his fist like he did when he was passionate about something. "We'll use those pod prototypes, go to that virual world and rescue Kaiba."

"Thanks guys," Mokuba smiled. I squeezed his shoulder.

"Ok lets go!" I said grabbing our oddly big collection of umbrella and started to hand them out. Hmm maybe we should get rid of some of these.

"We'll be back soon, Grandpa." Yugi called back, as we ran outside.

"You be careful."

"We will," Yugi called.

"Wait up you guys you don't know the way!" Mokuba yelled trying to get to the front…

"This is my brother's personal lab." He said when we got there. "He doesn't like anyone messing around in here, but I used to sneak in all the time." He put down the umbrella and climbed over the metal gate, opening the door on the other side.

"This way," we ran through the little court yard with a statue of the blue eyes at the centre. "This is where Seto keeps his most secret stuff." We dove under the no entry sign and Mokuba took us to a room with sliding doors.

"There they are," he said, turning the lights on. Wow, and these were prototypes. Was Kaiba a perfectionist or what.

"These are the prototypes," Joey voiced my thought. "Wow,"

Mokuba ran behind a little orange stand thing. "Let's see here, yep just like the model my brothers in."

"Only three pods," Joey pointed out the obvious. "Guess someone's staying here, I say Tristan."

Tristan grabbed him into a headlock.

"And I say you."

"Well I'm going." Mokuba said.

"Mokuba you're the only one who knows how to work these things you're staying here." Yugi said.

"Yeah, but I also know the most about the adventure land that we are about to go into." He pointed out.

"Good point."

"So then get in," Joey said.

"But –"

"Mana relax, jeez Yugi and I will be with him."

"Who said I wasn't going?" I frowned.

"Me, it's too dangerous." Yugi said.

"Oh so you and Mokuba can go, but it's too dangerous for me." I snapped at him.

"Grandpa needs one of us to return."

"Well then I'll go. He'd rather his real Grandkid came –"

"You are his real Grandchild," Yugi said fiercely.

"Yeah, don't like Kaiba get in yer head like that Mana," Joey said.

"Huh," Mokuba looked puzzled.

"Your brother has it out for, Mana. It's cruel and unfair what he says to her." Tristan said. I watched carefully as Mokuba clutched his Duel Monsters necklace.

"I'm not saying he's right, but I know why. I'm sorry Mana," he said.

"Why?" Téa asked him.

"I can't Seto promised me to never tell anyone. I am sorry, it's not your fault." He said his big eyes looking at me.

"Its fine Mokuba don't worry about it all right."

"Take care of my beautiful bod, pal." Joey said to Tristan.

"Be careful," Téa said.

"We'll be fine Téa." Joey waved her off.

"Yeah, don't you guys worry. We'll have Kaiba rescued in no time," Yugi said getting in.

"Tristan, let her rip." Joey said.

"Right, here we go." The pods closed and these weird things move onto their heads. There was a bright light.

"Looks like it worked," Tristan said.

"Yeah, I guess," Téa said peeking into Yugi's pod through the glass.

"They'll be fine, they have each other and they have their cards." I said trying not to let my worry show.

We all flicked through our phones playing games trying not to think about the fact they weren't back yet.

"They've been gone a long time I hope they're ok." Téa said. I checked the time 22:14 they'd been gone for almost an hour.

"Don't you worry, I once saw Joey play a video game for 3 days straight without blinking or nothing." Tristan said.

"Figures," Téa sighed.

"Huh guys I know what will make all this waiting go by faster," he said. "A game and it's called guess my facial hair."

"What facial hair?" I laughed.

"I'll pass," Téa said.

"How about a real game," I asked. "Like…"

I could hear voices. I walked to the door peaking to see if my heavy stomach was an overreaction. It wasn't.

Kemo and another 10 suits were searching. I shut it pressing my back against the door.

"Like don't let the bad guys through this door," I said. "Lock it and gets some stuff inbetween us and them."

"Good idea," Tristan said starting to push on of the controls that we were not using towards the door. Téa started to help him, once it was in place I pushed on of the tables in the corner as Téa grabbed some of the boxes next to another door. Just as we took a short breather with a lot of stuff between us, I could hear them trying to open the door. We all stared to see if the stuff would hold.

"Ready or not here we come," one cried, they started to try to break down the door. The stuff rattled slightly. So we pushed against all them.

"You only get to kidnap one of us per life time. You already got me Kemo, so piss off." I cried.

Someone hit there fist against the door. I was gunna guess that was Kemo.

"Come on guys keep pushing!" I said grunting as the door creaked.

"I see an opening," one cried, a hand forced through the small gap in the door.

"No you don't," Téa said as I slammed the door on his hand.

"We're getting in there you little thumb-suckers. Just you wait."

"No way our friends are on a rescue mission and you're not yanking them out." Tristan yelled.

"Yeah go fix your stupid hair the spike is dropping," I snapped. I felt a funny tingle, I turned to look at Yugi. He had changed into the Prince… Looks like they were wrapping up the rescue mission...

They broke through, as they began to storm into the room, Tristan grabbed a pole. I copied. Téa spread her arms out in front of the pods. Just as I was about to swing at Kemo they opened.

"Huh what?" Kemo yelled.

"Hey Joey," Tristan said as Joey sat up, Yugi and Mokuba soon followed.

"Yugi, Joey you're all back!" Téa said.

"And so Kaiba, he's probably getting out of his pod right now." Yugi said.

"No he can't be," Kemo said.

"And without you guys to guard your bosses I'd say he's about to kick some butt," Mokuba yelled. Huh, it was funny to watch 11 grown men pale at the same time. They turned out of the door the just broke down and sprinted towards the exit.

"We did it!" ? who said?

"Bunch of whips." Tristan, we heard a yawn.

"It's Mai!" Mokuba said, she was here all along.

"Mai?" I asked, when did she get here? She walked around the corner stretching.

"In the flesh, is everything cool?"

"It sure looks that way." Yugi smiled at her.

"Because of you," Mokuba said. "All of you so thanks,"

"Argh stop now and get out of here already, your brother probably can't wait to see you." Joey said.

"Ok thanks again you guys," he ran off. "Bye."

"Bye Mokuba," we called after him.

"Yeah, bye. Now where's the John? I had like 7 sodas before we got in those pods," Joey said making us all laugh. Maybe things would start relaxing till school started up again. Joey, Téa and Tristan went home leaving Grandpa, Yugi and I to catch up and relax. It didn't take long before Yugi and I headed up to bed. I mean we'd had a hell of a few days. Pulling the curtain across and slipping into my pyjamas I let sleep find me.

_It was dark, and it had been quiet for a long time. All I could smell was smoke. Where was Mummy and Daddy. I began to cry. Everything hurt. _

_I could hear men yelling, horses neighing. _

"_Help!" I cried. "Help I'm stuck!" I yelled over and over again. _

_A shot of light beamed through the wood above me. _

"_I found someone!" I boys voice cried. Pulling more wood away from me. I could see a boy with spiky hair and amethyst eyes. He looked at me in concern. _

"_It's all right. I'll get you out." he said pulling another piece of wood. _

"Mana are you alright?" Yugi said anxiously. "You were yelling in a weird language,"

"I'm fine," I gasped. "Ancient Egyptian I imagine, I was taken into the palace as Yami found me after a big village fire I was the only one who survived." I said looking down. I knew that was what happened.

"I'm ok Yug, go back to sleep." I smiled.

"Are you sure?"

"Positive."

Mokuba's POV

We got back to our apartment Seto was sitting writing out some papers. I couldn't stop thinking about what they said. Seto was being saying mean things to Mana. It wasn't her fault.

"Seto," I called up before I knew what I was doing. His head snapped up at me.

"What is it Mokuba?"

"When we were going to save you, Joey said –"

"What could Wheeler have possibly said that is worth mentioning Mokuba," he sneered. I scowled at him.

"He said you are awful to Mana, that you say things to her." I said. Seto looked back at his work.

"I am not discussing this with you Mokuba," he snapped.

"You shouldn't take it out on her. It wasn't her fault. I mean, I know she looks like her but –"

"Enough Mokuba!" Seto snarled.

I knew Seto wasn't going to say anything else. I sighed and got up making my way to my room. Seto didn't like to think about her. I tried too all the time. I couldn't really remember anything about her. I couldn't remember her voice. The only memory I had was of the three of us playing in a sandbox in a back garden. I'm guessing it was our parents back garden and Seto saying he would always be there for us both... I knew he blamed himself for what happened to our sister.

_**Sorry guys my life has sucked a bit recently so I haven't really been able to write all that much. Try and be more frequent now. Sorry again. I changed the order round cause I couldn't imagine Kaiba waiting till the night time to fire the big 5 so I thought that bit first then Rebecca the next day. **_


	22. Treasured Past

I felt warm; I clenched my eyes tighter to remove the faded light, and turned my body away from it. I wrapped my duvet closer to myself. I had to get up, I thought miserably, opening my eyes I decided today was a rip of the band aid and just sit up. So I stretched and swung my legs over the side of my bed.

"OUCH!" I yelped clutching my toe.

"What is it what's wrong?" Yugi rushed through the curtain. "Whoa what is that?"

I looked down to see what had cause my injury, there was a box made of…

"Holy crap is that… gold?" I said sliding down onto the floor to inspect it, trying to ignore the throbbing in my toe. The beautifully carved trunk was about 20 cm in height, 20 in width and 35 in length it was covered in rare gems mainly lapis lazuli and emeralds.  
"It sure looks like it." Yugi said kneeling beside me.

"This must be the gift from that guy in the robe." I mumbled as I opened the lapis encrusted handle to reveal.

"Wow." I whispered, the trunk was like Hermione's bag, I could see multiple leather encased books that were as thick as my waist, a few off white dresses with gold attached to the neckline. A hat with one side longer than the other again with gold, a gold belt with a large ruby, bracelets and anklets with lapis and ruby triangles, and finally a gold necklace with a ruby that would sit between my collar bone.

I picked up the necklace and smiled.

"Looks like there is a note," Yugi said pointing to a piece of parchment on top of one of the books. I picked it up and read.

_Mana _

_Here are the tools you will need to once again begin your training and aid the Pharaoh in his quest to vanquish the darkness and return your memories. _ May this knowledge guide you in your journey.

_Your humble servant _

_Shadi_

"He's wordy," I said handing the note to Yugi as I picked up my dress.

"Vanquish the darkness?" Yugi said in shock.

"Yeah, no pressure," I beamed at him putting the dress against me. "I'll look at the books once school starts for now, let's just try and have a few days rest from all the shadow realm drama.

"We still need to tell everyone the truth," Yugi said. I sighed I knew that.

"Text everyone, we'll go for coffee."

"Good idea," Yugi said, getting up off the floor and back to the other side of the curtain. I touched the trunk again.

This was going to be a big year…

"So you knew the Spirit," Téa said once I had finished explain about the dreams and what they meant, along with everything else that was related to the puzzle and shadow realm.

"From the dreams I have been having, I grew up with him. He was the Prince of Egypt and one day the Pharaoh, but…" I trailed off picking at the green sleeve of my shirt.

"That battle with Bakura you were –"

"Blurting out random things, yeah, I don't remember that, but I will. I am going to try and find a memory charm. Hopefully it will give us all some answers."

"So the Pharaoh's inside him," Joey said grinning like an idiot. Yugi blushed.

"You're such a dork," I scolded.

"But he is," Joey said.

"Grow up Joey," Téa rolled her eyes.

"And technically he is in the puzzle," I said saving Yugi.

"Whatever," he said winking at Yugi who blushed deeper.

"I'll be weird going back to school after all that's just happened," I said sipping my coffee, hopefully distracting the boys from tormenting Yugi any further.

"Argh why'd ya have to bring that up Mana," Joey groaned. Yugi, Téa and I laughed at the look on his face.

"Yeah, I thought we were having a good time," Tristan said.

"Grow up you two," Téa said. I felt a vibrating on my leg, looking down a blue light was shining through my jeans.

"Grandpa's texted," I said looking at the message.

"Is he alright?" Yugi asked anxiously.

"He's fine he's asking if we all want to go to that new Thai place. On him." I said looking at the group.

"We can't make him pay," Téa said frowning.

"Hey if the man wants to pay for our food I say we let him," Joey said. We all sighed at him. Joey and his stomach.

"He says he'll meet us by the park, he's been out for a walk. He just needs to pop home for some more money." I said reading the rest of the text.

"Let's go," Téa said grabbing her coat.

_We'll all be there in 5 x_

The boys all but ran to the park leaving time for me and Téa to have a chat.

"How do you feel about all this stuff, I mean you're a part of this… You were in a different time. That must be crazy for your mind to handle."

I bit my lip.

"I got a chest full of training stuff for magic," I said realising how stupid that sounded.

"Really," she said stopping me grabbing my arm.

"Yeah, I haven't looked at them yet, but…" should I tell Téa what I hid from Yugi.

"But what? You can talk to me, Mana." She said.

"It felt like home, this warmth like… I can't describe it and since I looked at the clothes… I feel homesick." I looked down at my shoes. "It's ridiculous, I can't even remember it, but it feels like a hole…"

"It makes sense." She said, I looked at her in surprise. "You had a whole life back then, different friends, family, culture, climate. Can you honestly say your old life hasn't been slipping in this whole time? You love the warmth of a day that most people find insane. Or the way you love Egypt. I mean you're still the same person… Just in the 21st century" she smirked.

That made sense, I'd always been afraid of fires, my latest dream would explain that one.

"Thanks Téa, you've helped." I smiled hugging her.

"Hey you two what's the hold up!"

I pulled away from Téa to see Tristan with his hands cupped around his mouth. They had stopped on the corner.

"Coming," Téa yelled back, we rushed to catch them up.

We found Grandpa, we had made our way to the other side of the park.

Joey went to walk onto the road.

I saw a car out of the corner of my eye. Grabbing his jacket I yanked him back.

"Nehhh!" he fell over.

"Joey! Look first!" I said as Tristan helped him back up. He grinned sheepishly rubbing the back of his head.

"Hey!" said a high voice. We all turned towards it. There was a young girl with blonde pigtails.

"I've got something to say to you that is, if you're who I think you are,"

"What in the world?" Yugi said.

"Who is that, do you guys know her?" Joey said. She walked over dragging her suitcase behind her.

"Hello," Grandpa said.

"Tell me," she demanded. "Is your name Solomon Muto?"

"That's right and who might you be?" Grandpa said still being polite to this little brat.

"Who might I be? I might be Rebecca and I might just have arrived here in town and I might have been waiting for you to show up it's not nice to keep a lady waiting you know."

"Lady?" Yugi chuckled.

"That's right are you saying I'm not a lady Buster."

"You're being a little brat," I snapped at her. "You can't just demand people to tell them who they are and expect them to know who you are and to meet you when they have no idea you were going to show up. Where are your parents?"

"I live with my Grandpa," she sniffed. "Is that right Teddy." She started talking to the bear.

"She talks to the bear," Joey said.

"Rebecca, wait what exactly is it you want from me,"

"My card back," she said.

"Your pardon?"

"My blue eyes white dragon," holding out her hand. "Now give it back to me!" we all gasped in confusion. "Listen, you heard what I said I want my blue eyes back right now."

"Ok missy," I said putting my hands on my hip. "Full name and your Grandpa's phone number. Now." I said putting my hand out.

"I want my blue eyes!"

"I want never gets, it isn't your blue eyes, you are behaving like a little brat and if you don't give me what I asked for you are in big trouble. Now Rebecca.

She started to cry.

"She's being mean to me Teddy –"

"I know you're faking Rebecca. Now." I said sternly.

"Jeez when did you become such a badass?" Joey said.

"Joey language," Téa hit him. Rebecca sighed.

"Grandpa's number is 828 603 1193,"

I typed it into my phone and waited.

"Hello Professor Hawkins how may I help you?"

"Professor Hawkins?" I gasped looking at Grandpa. "Here your Granddaughter has been causing problems with an old friend." I passed the phone onto Grandpa.

"Hello Arthur," Grandpa said fondly, there was a pause.

"Yes, that sounds wonderful, the game shop?" he paused for a moment. "Yes we will catch up then." He hung up.

I grabbed Rebecca's hand.

"Follow me young lady," I scowled walking in the direction of the game shop.

Everyone followed me as I dragged the 8 year old towards the game shop.

The bell dinged announcing our arrival, I pressed on to the sitting room.

"Sit there until your Grandfather shows up." I told her sternly.

The bell rung again, Grandpa smiled. It had been a long time since he had last seen his old friend.

"We are back here!" he called, a tall elderly gentlemen walked in wearing a suit.

"Arthur it's really you," Grandpa said hugging his old friend.

"Long time Solomon, this young man was four last time we meet?" he gestured to Yugi.

"Sounds about right," Grandpa smiled.

"I'd hate to break the catching up, but Rebecca –"

"What have you done young lady?" he said sternly.

"I was just trying to get my card back Grandpa, he stole –"

"Who told you he stole it," Arthur said sharply. "I have told you the story Rebecca why on earth would you think it was stolen?"

"But…"

Ha.

"I am dreadfully sorry Solomon,"

"All is forgiven Arthur. Come inside we shall make tea."

"Maybe have a duel or two," he smirked at Grandpa.

"Oh Wow this I got to see, duelling Grandpa's."

They both chuckled.

"Mr Muto you got to remember you just got out of hospital."

"Yes, but I could still out duel any of you young turks even if I were still in a coma."

We all laughed.

"Coma Solomon,"

"Yeah, let's just say we've all had time in the Shadow Realm, some more than others." I spoke up.

"We'll let you guys catch up," Téa said. "We'll see you guys tomorrow."

"Yeah, catch you later," Tristan put a hand in his pocket and saluted us with his other hands finger.

"Just don't duel unless I'm there," Joey said. Téa sighed dragging him away.

"So who is this," Arthur smiled at me, as they all left.

"Arthur this is my granddaughter,"

"She looks older than 12 Solomon."

"No they took me in," I said handing everyone some more biscuits. His eyes widened for a moment.

"Is it Mana?"

"Yes?" I said how did he know that unless he knew about…

"Have the dreams started?"

"Yes."

"Fascinating do keep me informed on your discoveries would you."

"Of course Professor, is there anything you can tell us –"

"I'm afraid you will have to discover as your memories grow." He said sipping his tea.

I sighed, getting up.

"How long are you guys in town,"

"The weekend." He said sadly "Rebecca begins school again on Monday."

"Then until tomorrow, and I'll tell you what I learn," I smiled at everyone.

"Goodnight," kissing Grandpa on the cheek I made my way upstairs, once I was in my long t-shirt I tucked myself under the covers wondering what I would learn tonight…

_**Here you go guys enjoy! If life doesn't get to dramatic then I will be updating again on the 30**__**th**___

_**Bye for now xxx**_


	23. Yugi's Dad

_I was laughing a large bunch of flowers in my arms. I ran towards a teenage boy with long brown hair. He was me coming and smiled crouching down to my level as I finally reached him. _

"_I picked these for you!" I said pushing them in his face, he just smiled at me. _

"_Thank you, Mana," he said. Laughing I jumped into his open arms, snuggling close to him. _

"_Will you play with us, the Prince has gone to get some of the others kids." I asked, staring up at his face._

"_Of course, though you and the Prince must return to the palace before the sun falls," he said. I pouted, but nodded grabbing his hand I pulled him to the court yard, there the ten year old Pharaoh was waiting. _

"_Mana, Mahad!" cried a young boy who I didn't know the name of. "We're playing cross the Nile."_

_I looked anxiously, at the group of kids lining up on one side of the court. _

"_Who is the hippo?" I said looking at everyone, I was the smallest person playing. _

"_Don't worry Mana, I'll stay with you," Mahad smiled keeping a hold of my hand. _

"_Rames is going to be Hippo, you remember the rules right, Mana?" said one of the elder servant boys. _

"_Don't let the hippo touch you as you run across cause you'll become a hippo." I said quietly. _

"_I'll look after her Mahad," he said taking my free hand. _

"_Are you sure?" he said. The boy nodded. _

"_Very well, I will return soon Mana, I must go put these wonderful flowers in a vase. Thank you." he crouched down to hug me. _

_The prince rushed over to us. _

"_Mana are you sure you want to play? We can play something else," he said. I shook my head and smiled. _

"_I can play," I said, pulling the older boy to the line ready to run. I could see the Prince had got in line close by. Rames looked along the line smiling as he stood in the centre of the courtyard. _

"_Go!" someone yelled we all ran, Rames lunged towards people, in the sea odd waists and shoulders I had made it across to the other side. _

"_You ok?" the boy said to me. I nodded. "Think you can do it on your own, I want to see how fast I can run?" _

_I didn't want to be left on my own, but I didn't want to be a burden either. I nodded at him. _

"_Thanks Mana," he grinned getting ready to run. I looked at the 5 hippos. _

"_Go!" _

_I was trapped between two people being jolted back and forth; as one ran ahead I fell to the ground. _

"_Ouch!" I cried clutching my knee. _

"_Mana!" the Prince rushed to my side. "Are you ok? How badly did you hurt yourself?" he said trying to pry my hand from my knee. _

"_I'm okay," I sniffed, my eyes burning with the tears I fought to keep at bay. _

"_You told Mahad, you would stay with her!" he yelled to the boy. He looked worried. _

"_She told me she was fine, I didn't know she would get hurt." He said. "My Prince I can make it up to you –"_

"_It's not me you need to make it up too," the Prince snapped. _

"_I'll carry her to the side." One boy said, he looked about 13, he crouched down and scooped me up. _

"_I'm sorry for my brother, I should have stayed near you," he said as he walked over to the tree and placed me down. _

"_Mana!" I heard a familiar voice. _

"_Mahad!" the Prince cried. _

"_What happened?"_

"_It's just a scratch," I sniffed still clutching my leg. Mahad pulled my hand away, blood gushed down my shin, I look at my dripping hands. _

"_That's quite a bad gash, Mana. It needs to be cleaned and bandaged." He said, he turned to the boy who had carried me. "I would like a word with your brother after the game, for now you can return. I will take care of her." he turned to the Prince. "You too my Prince, enjoy the day."_

"_I'm staying with Mana, she's my best friend," he said stubbornly. _

"_Very well," _

_Mahad scooped me up and carried me towards the palace…_

"You ok, you were talking again?" Yugi said as I entered the kitchen, he and Grandpa were eating breakfast.

"Good one, a continuation of another," I smiled, grabbing two slices of bread, putting them in the toaster.

"You'll have to tell us later," Yugi smiled.

"Well, I will leave you to get dressed Mana, I am meeting with Arthur again today. I will be home for dinner. Maybe this time we will make it to the Thai restaurant." he winked and left heading out the front door. Tugging my shorts a little more the toast popped and I sat beside Yugi.

"So what happened?"

"The one we were hiding from, he's a lot older than us, but he plays with us when we ask him to." I told him spreading jam. "I had picked some flowers for him, and we met the Pharaoh to play Hippos –it looked kind of like Bulldog – anyway, I fell over and scrapped my knee. I had to go in to get cleaned up and, _he_." I gestured to the puzzle. "Went with me to be bandaged up." I smiled taking a bite of my toast.

"Are they getting longer?" Yugi asked taking a bite of his own breakfast.

"More pieces are fitting together it's strange. I mean it is literally another life," I said.

"Hmm," he looked deep in thought.

"On a more mundane topic, you want the back or the front of the shop?" I asked him, getting up to get some orange juice.

"Uh, the back, I'll come through if there is nothing to do, but I think Grandpa just got those new cards." He checked his watch. "We should get dressed, half an hour till opening."

Finally it was 6pm! The news that the King of Games lived and worked in this game shop had spread and we were getting more business. I took the money out of the till and crouched down beginning to count todays profit. 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, 120, 140, 160, 180, 200.

I put the 20 dollar bills into the safe, and scribbled the number on a sheet of paper.

10, 20, 30, 40.

5, 10.

Ding.

"Sorry were closed," I called shoving the money under the counter and shutting the safe.

"Dad!" I gasped.

"You get more beautiful every time I see you," he smiled opening his arms.

"Yugi! It's Dad!" I yelled as I ran over and hugged him, he was always so warm.

"Dad!" Yugi's cried, I moved so Yugi could participate.

"His majesty the King of Games," he said bowing at Yugi. I laughed.

"Let's go and catch up, where is your Grandfather?"

"Professor Hawkins is in town," Yugi said as I grabbed ones of Dad's suitcases.

"Thanks Honey," he said smiling. "I have presents for you all. Come on." He said taking the other case. His spiky hair sticking up like his sons though he had more grey than the last time I saw him.

"Where did you go this time?" Yugi asked as we sat in the sitting room.

"Mostly North Africa," he said, his eyes wrinkling with his smile, his skin was darker than five months previous. He unzipped a case and handed us both a wrapped item each. He gestured for us to open.

"They have just made some new discoveries, I know you kids have been busy. The mummies they have discovered are about 5000 years old and will be on display in the Domino museum in July."

I pulled out a statue of Iris; I glanced to see Yugi pull out Ra. He looked over to me and smirked.

"This is perfect thank you Dad," I said pulling him into a hug.

"Yeah, thanks Dad."

"Sit and relax," I said. "I'll go make some snacks, Yug can you help me with it? And text Grandpa tell him the surprises haven't stopped yet."

The group of four were sitting in Domino's Cities best Thai restaurant.

"To my son's safe return, and to family." Grandpa said raising his beer. We all lifted our glasses

"Family," we repeated clinking our glasses together.

"So how's school what are you guys doing?" Dad asked us.

"Well, we picked our classes just before the Easter holiday and start them next sememster, we have our timetables." Yugi said.

"What are you guys taking," Dad asked taking another bite of his food.

"We finished most of our core classes in Sophomore year. We aren't together as much as we were." I said, taking a bite of my beef and broccoli."

"So what are you guys taking?"

"Well we are doing our last history, Ancient History, we are all taking that this semester." Yugi said.

"What else are you doing Yugi,"

"Web design, Probability and Statistics, Computer science and I think we are all taking woodshop too.

"And you Mana?"

"Those two and Fashion and design, Creative Writing and Japanese."

"My bright children," Dad smiled, his eyes crinkling like Grabdpa's did.

"You guys got any idea on where you wanna go for college?"

"Not sure," Yugi said I hummed in agreement.

"Téa's the only one who really knows what she wants to do. I'm not sure Joey and Tristan are even thinking of college."

"Think Tristan wants to be a cop, and Joey a mechanic."

"Sounds good. If I remember Téa wants to get into New York?" he asked.

"Yeah, she wants to be a dancer," Yugi said.

"Do you think you'll leave the state?"

"It's too expensive the loans are going to be bad enough." I said taking another bite of my meal.

"What about you Dad? What adventures have you been having?"

"None as interesting as your Grandfather, the stories he would tell about Egypt were memorising."

"We start Egypt when we go back to school," Yugi said. "It will certainly be interesting." He smiled at me.

"Be the wrong period though," I said eying him meaningfully.

"Yeah," Yugi sighed.

"I'm sure they'll do some of this new period with you. The theory and mythological aspects of magic are even higher than any other period."

Yugi and I looked at each other before tucking back into our food. Grandpa changed the topic, avoiding dangerous waters.

"Do you think we should tell him," I bit my lip. I could hear him laughing with Grandpa in the sitting room. "I mean it doesn't even seem like he knows about Grandpa's 'coma'" I bend my fingers.

"I dunno, is it worth worrying him if we don't have too? But we should tell him Grandpa was in hospital, he has a right to know that."

I nodded in agreement.

"But is that not up to Grandpa?"

"Hmm," Yugi said looking worried.

"Talk about it with Grandpa tomorrow. For now let's just enjoy that he is back,"

I grinned; grabbing the whipped cream to squirt onto the hot chocolates.

_I walked along the corridor, the prince on one side and Mahad on the other. The Prince had to be at least 14. _

"_Mahad what is going on?" he asked as I almost jogged to keep their pace. _

"_The Pharaoh and the sacred guard wish to speak to you about something very important." He said, his newly acquired millennium ring jangling on his chest. _

"_Why can't you just tell us now?" I asked him. _

"_It is not my place Mana, I was told to fetch you so that you could both be told about your destiny."_

"_Our destiny," the Prince said frowning. _

"_There is a prophecy that foretells a king. A king who will defeat the evil of Zorc, and be reincarnated in a future time to destroy the darkness completely, I am sorry that is all I can tell you right now." _

"_Then why am I here?" I asked. _

"_Because your role is at the greatest importance in your next lives." Mahad said. _

I shot up gasping. I was in my bedroom, the familiar curtain that separated me and Yugi. I couldn't hear anything. Perhaps I did not wake him this time. I grabbed some paper and scribbled down what I remembered. I hadn't forgotten anything yet, but this was the oldest and most important memory yet.

I closed my eyes again, hoping more would reveal itself to me.

_**Hey Guys sorry it's late my personal life is a mess. I had a bit of a mental block on the second half of this chapter. **_


	24. Duke Devlin

"Mana, what are you wearing?" Dad said as I walked into the shop.

'My school uniform,' I said slowly, looking down. Had I forgotten to put my bow on? Or my skirt? Nope. He laughed.

"Is that really the High school uniform? Thank god you can pull anything off," he said ruffling my hair. I laughed nudging him. Yugi laughed too.

"Now go on you two, I'll help the old man. Where is he?" he asked looking around.

"He'll be sweeping outside before he opens," I said smiling as I grabbed my back pack.

"Dad, how long are you staying for?" Yugi asked, as we all walked towards the front door.

"Er, I don't have to leave again until the summer so I can celebrate you two finishing your exams."

Stepping onto the pavement I saw a familiar pair of green overalls.

"Ok, we're going to be late for school we've got to go." Yugi said. Grandpa sighed. Oh no what had happened now?

"Good morning Yugi, Mana," I heard Téa yell as she walked towards us.

"How's it going Téa?" Yugi said.

"You late too, huh?" I said.

"Mr Muto, good morning," she said.

"Huh, for you maybe," he said, still not turning around as he swept the side.

"What's bugging your Grandfather?" Téa whispered to us. "I've never seen him like this before. Is he sick?"

Yugi whispered something in her ear.

"But why?" I heard Téa say.

"Ok I'm going to tell you," Grandpa appeared behind us. I felt my heart thump.

"Grandpa." I gasped trying to calm my heart.

"I have endured many things in my life. I've been trapped in an ancient pyramid, stung by scorpions,. Attacked by Tibetan wolves, but nothing compares to this. A new game shop." He pointed at the new building a few blocks away.

"Grandpa I think you are being a bit over dramatic there, I mean A new game shop worse than all the things you've dealt with over the years," I said wanting to roll my eyes at him, I loved the man, but he could be a bit eccentric.

"They think they can drive me out of business selling their trendy new trash, but they have no respect for the gaming traditions, the true classics because they sell only to the fans of today."

"Wow a new game store, I better go check out the competition and see what we're up against."

"Don't you even think about," Grandpa said furiously. Oh boy.

"Come on Yug, we are going to be late for school." I said hooking his arm and dragging him. "See you after school Grandpa, have a great day," I said pulling Yugi along till we were about of sight. "You knew what would rile him up more why…" I said frowning at my brother.

"Let's go check it out," he said rushing in the direction of the new store.

"Wait!" Téa called rushing after him, I sighed following her.

It didn't take long to get to the shop. Yugi stood in amazement.

"Yugi, if your Grandfather finds out we've been here, you two are going to be so grounded." Téa said trying to convince him to move.

"No way I am getting grounded, I didn't want to come." I scowled. He loved games too much.

"Ah, what's the harm in a little window shopping." He said as a woman handed him a leaflet.

"Here," she said.

"What is it?"

"Dungeon Dice Monsters," she said.

"Wow this looks like a pretty cool game, but I wonder how you play it…"

Téa and I shared a look and each linked one of our arms in his, and began to walk dragging him backwards towards the school.

"You're going to make me miss my first class again. If I get detention for this you're doing my homework for a week."

"Mine too," I said dragging him a little quicker, I had a feeling someone was watching us.

"Whoa be still my beating heart. You sure there is a new game shop?" Joey said.

"Yeah, my Grandpa's pretty worried about it." Yugi said, I nodded.

"You should have heard him this morning."

"It just opened, they've got the lastest and greatest games." Téa said. "They were really trying to hype up this new one, something about dice or dungeons."

"You saying they got that Dungeon and Dice monsters." Joey.

"Hey how did you become a total expert all of a sudden," Tristan said.

"A little thing called the newspaper. Ever heard of it, genius?" Joey mocked.

"What?" Téa half laughed. "You never read the newspaper."

"I read um when I'm out deliverin' um ok." Joey snapped.

"Why are you delivering newspapers?"

"Listen, Téa. I don't get one of them big fat allowances; I just need a little extra spending money that's all."

"Relax Joe, the money we have will be enough for Serenity's operation." I smiled at him.

"How is Serenity doing?" Tristan said.

"Great, the eyes doctor says she's going to see good as new and the first thing she is going to see is my beautiful mug."

"Wow, Joey, that's awesome news." Yugi said.

"Just a shame it's your face she'll see first." I smirked.

Squealing erupted from next door. Heading over to investigate, it was a sea of girls.

"Who is this guy?" Joey asked. "Hey do you two kids know who that dice guys is over there?"

I tried to see on my tiptoes, but it was useless.

"Yeah that's Duke Devlin, he owns the new game shop that's just opened up." He said. I caught a glimpse of him through the crowd. Wow he was hot! Those eyes were a beautiful green, his hair…

Dark Egyptian eyes burned into my skull.

It was an older version of the Prince in my dreams, the Pharaoh living in Yugi's puzzle. I zoned back into the real world trying to shake those possessive eyes.

Duke was strutting over to us.

"I don't wish to intrude, but I couldn't help overhearing that you dabble in the game of Duel Monsters," he said. Wow, he was hot. "And who is this beautiful lady?" I heard him say. Looks like Téa has another admirer. I looked at Téa for her answer.

"Your name?" he asked again, going warm a realised he was looking at me.

"I'm Mana," I said blushing.

"Ah yes, I've heard of you King of Games's sister. I heard your quite the player yourself." He winked at me making my face burn.

"Hey Dices, what have you heard about me. Joey Wheeler." Joey cut in. Thank goodness.

"Nothing at all, but why don't we play a little game and show these lovely ladies just what your made off." He winked at me again. The Pharaoh's eyes burned in the back of my mind again. They looked angry. I glanced at Yugi to see his expression was anxious as he looked down at the puzzle. He seemed to snap out of the day dream and look at the others.

"Joey, no! It's a trick!" he yelled as Joey lifted a cup. What had just happened?

"It's still there," Joey said confused, as Duke then picked up the dice under the cup. Oh, that's what.

"I'll take that. I moved the dice into my right hand, and I never had to move the cup. That makes me the winner."

All the girls started cheering. That was a bit excessive. I frowned at Duke Devlin, there was something off about him. Like a cloud that was blocking his judgment.

Huh? Why did I suddenly have more insight to people's actions and motives? Was it to do with the Shadow Realm and my magic kind of coming back? Yes, cause that was a normal sentence.

"Of course you're all invited, I wouldn't want you to miss your friends finest hour." I heard a voice say as something warm touched my hand. Snapping out of my daydream I turned crimson as Duke kissed my hand. He walked away smirking, the flock of girls whirling after him like a hurricane.

I spent the rest of school worrying about what would happen. I watched as Joey strutted like a Peacock, and thought about the way the Pharaoh's eyes had pierced me… Did I have feelings for the Pharaoh? What if we had been dating in ancient Egypt! That would explain the way I felt drawn to him. Oh I hoped I was just being paranoid. What if I had just had a crush on him… What if I ruined the friendship that the two kids running around playing had by trying to complicate it and neither of us remembered yet?

"Are you ok, Mana?"

I jumped whizzing round to see Yugi looking at me anxiously.

"You haven't said much all day?"

"Sorry," I said sheepishly. "I've just had a lot on my mind, between everything we've learnt over Easter break, I'm trying to wrap my head around these foreign yet homely memories."

I looked up to see that we were at the game shop.

"What are we doing here I thought? Wait where is everyone."

Had I really been that out of it not to notice this?

"We said we'd get changed and head there for four." Yugi said frowning at me.

"Right well we best get ready," I rushed inside trying to mask my confusion, pulling the curtain across I began to get ready.

Yugi's POV

I looked at the curtain in concern. My sister was going through so much right now. She had enough drama without this mess with Joey and Duke Devlin. I glanced over to the Pharaoh who was also staring at the curtain in concern. He'd been distant with me all day too.

\What was with you today?\ I asked him mentally. He seemed to snap out of a train of thought.

/What do you mean Yugi?/ he asked me. I unbuttoned my school shirt.

\You were angry when Duke was flirting with Mana – I mean, I didn't like it. But you seamed really mad.\

/I feel very protective of her./ he said uncrossing his arms. /We have known each other for over 5000 years, though our memories have faded, the bond we share remains./

\You sure that's all it is?\ I thought pulling my shirt on.

/What do you mean Yugi?/ he frowned.

\Well… it almost felt like you were… jealous.\

/Jealous/ he scoffed, re-crossing his arms. /I do not think so Yugi./

\You are!\ I said standing up. \I've never felt you be nervous before. You like Mana!\

/Yugi!/

\You like my sister…\ I thought. I started laughing.

/This isn't funny!/

\So you admit it!\ I smirked, he blinked.

/No I – /

"What's so funny?" Mana spoke. "You decent?"

"Yeah," I said pulling on my shoes. She pulled back the curtain frowning at me, then her eyes flickered around the room. They actually landed on the Pharaoh.

"What was so funny?" she asked sitting on my bed, crossing her now jean clad legs.

"Oh nothing," I said. "The Pharaoh keeps telling me to wear bracelets."

She laughed; I felt the Pharaoh's emotion warm, I glanced to see his face melt into a smile. I snorted, he glared at me.

"Come on," she said pushing herself up. "Let's go before Grandpa asks us where we are going."

"We'll be fine," I said as we went downstairs. To battle a more normal foe. .

Mana POV

"I can't believe that dice guy owns this place," Joey said as we stood outside. "Looks like he's spent some major molar; too bad he's going to be closing it down." He laughed before heading forwards. We all sighed bowing our heads.

"Joey's hearts in the right place it's his head I'm worried about." Téa.

"Yeah if it gets any bigger he's gunna get it stuck in the door. Besides I don't trust this Devlin he seems to like Mana a bit too much."

I blushed trying to pretend I hadn't heard what Tristan had said.

"We should probably catch up with him." I said as I noticed a Weevil like guy had started talking to Joey. As we walked through the grand shop full of figurines and posters, we made it to the lift.

Duke was inside with a big box by his feet.

"Ah you showed up," Duke said.

"The Duelling ring is on sub level 6 your chariot awaits." He creepy guy said.

"Hello again Mana," Duke winked at me, I looked down at the box.

"Go ahead Mr Wheeler, choose your packs carefully." He said.

"We'll build our own decks from these new cards."

"Come to papa," Joey said crouching down to look.

"Did you get any good cards?" Yugi asked.

"Don't worry about it, this match is in the bag."

Ding.

The doors opened and… argh Maddi, Lara and Joyce were in cheerleader outfits. Give me a break.

The area was huge, grander than even Pegasus's.

My gaze flickered to the cameras. This was not a good sign.

"This place is huge," Joey said.

"Actually this is one of the smallest rings in the place, but it has all the bells and whistles." Duke said.

"That's excessive, compensating much," I heard Tristan grumble. I smirked.

"Duke! Duke! He's our man if he can't do it nobody can! Goooooooooo Duke!"

Argh.

"Camera one in position." A voice said. Oh this was not good.

"TV cameras?" Joey said spotting them for the first time.

"Yeah, I have a little theory. The bigger the audience the bigger the performance. That's why I've decided to broadcast this match live to the entire world. I know my fans will enjoy watching me beat the second best duellist. I just hope you really are second best not second rate."

"Second rate," Joey sneered. "Second rate, your gunna need a second life, cause when I'm through with you Dukey there won't be anything left."

The cheerleaders began to quiver. Oh for the love of all things duel monsters.

"Don't worry," Duke said to them. "I've never disappointed my loyal fans yet."

They cheered.

"Claim up!" Joey yelled, before running to the ring. "Let's get this show on the road come on tough guy let the duel begin."

"Anyone else want to ram those pomp pomps down their throats," I muttered.

"I'll hold them down," Téa grumbled back.

"Let's duel!"

It didn't take long thought Joey did surprise him you could tell by the shock as his life points went down after a few twists that Joey put in. However, Joey still was the one who slumped towards us.

"It's ok Joey." Yugi said as I ran and hugged him.

"You still have your cheerleaders," I whispered.

Duke clicked his fingers and Maddi walked over to Joey with a dog suit.

"Put it on," she said.

"I hope you're a man of your word. Joey boy."

Argh that sounded like Pegasus.

"I look forward to having an obedient dog for the next week."

"Hey knock it off, just because you won doesn't mean you can put Joey down."

"Yugi," Joey said. "A promise is a promise. And I gutta keep it. Even to a creep like Devlin."

He flicked a dice at Joey.

"Argh!" Joey clutched his head.

"Are you ok?" we all asked.

"Shut your yap you mongrel, you will not speak unless your master commands you to," Duke said making my blood boil.

"Come on, Joey, lets get out of here," Tristan said glaring at Duke.

"Sorry guys, I gave my word." He said, Duke flicked two dice at him.

"You're a dog now Joey. You don't say ouch you say woof woof." He tossed the dice in his hand.

"Knock it off," I growled at him.

"Joey put it on and bark," Duke said ignoring me. The girls started taunting.

"Shut it or I will have all your hair off in your sleep." I snarled at them. They whimpered, clutching each other. Argh they were so pathetic.

"The dog suit fits you perfectly Joey. Now give us your best bark."

"Leave him alone Devlin." I said standing in front of Joey.

"Sorry darling, a deals a deal." He said sweetly.

"Woof woof." I turned to see Joey had gone on all fours. Téa looked away.

"Joey you don't have to do this," I said, turning back round to Devlin. "Tell him to take it off and to stop and the deals off. _Now_." I threatened.

"Fine," he said coolly. "If you go out with me for the week instead." He said smirking at me.

"You'll leave him alone," I said frowning at him.

"Mana no," Joey cried.

"Bad dog," Duke snapped he threw the dice, I put my hand in the way.

"Fine," I crossed my arms. I felt magic behind me, I turned to see the Pharaoh had taken over Yugi's body. Wow he really looked good in that outfit – Mana stop!

"Your little stunt has gone on long enough. I challenge you to a duel, and when I have defeated you. You will declare Joey a free man again."

"I prefer this deal I got with Mana actually, but maybe your right. I have to earn such a prize. So I'll duel you, but we'll play a game of my own choosing, we will battle to the finish with a game called Dungeon Dice Monsters. When you are the loser you will give your title of King of Games to me, and swear on your Grandfathers life never to play Duel Monsters again. Oh, and I date Mana for a month."

"I am not some prize to be one or lost!" I shrieked. The Pharaoh turned and looked at me. I could see him asking permission in his eyes, and his determination to win. It sent shivers down my spine. Stop. No. Bad Mana. I gave a small nod.

"I accept your conditions I will not let you destroy the dignity of my friend. We will do battle in the game of your choosing. My terms are, I win this and you let Joey go. No more dog suit no more demands. You never _ever _make Mana feel like she has to do anything she doesn't want to. Or use her in a bet or wager in or out of the game."

Duke cheated throughout the game, and when he told us he was the creator and told the Pharaoh things after they were relevant and were too late to change. His constant taunting towards me and the occasional insight to the game were maddening.

In true King of Games style he began to get the hang of it. We soon learnt the whole reason behind this contest was because he believed that the Pharaoh had cheated against Pegasus and that he was going to prove it on TV to show the world. Duke blamed him for Pegasus not getting back in touch with him over his game.

As Duke's last heart point fell, I sank to my knees in relief. There was some close calls.

I could hear the guys celebrating but I looked back at the Pharaoh who smiled at me. I smiled back.

_**Hey sorry it's so late, final year at uni, psycho mother and moving out to get away from later. The next chapter will be later on this month after essays etc. Hope you guys enjoy! **_


	25. Surprises in History

Duke took us to his apartment on the top floor of the store to talk away from the public, as soon as she got there he sat down putting his head in his hands.

"Yugi, I am so sorry I accused you of cheating, the better player won today. You proved you really did beat Pegasus fair and square. Argh, I was such a creep today, and thanks to those cameras' the whole world knows it. My store is ruined, no one is ever going to want to play Dungeons and Dice monsters now."

"That's not true at all. Dungeon Dice Monsters has the potential to become a huge hit." Yugi said.

"True, I haven't seen a game this exciting since Duel Monsters." Grandpa encouraged. "There is more than enough room for two game stores in this town."

"You really think so," Duke said, I smiled, Grandpa always knew how to make people feel better.

"Sure, Dungeon Dice Monsters is great. It's you I don't like." Joey said, I scowled at him.

"Joey!"

"What it's true, he's been a real sleeze today." He said defensively.

"He's right," Duke sighed. "Especially to you," Duke turned to me. "Mana I am so sorry, I don't know what was wrong with me, can we start over?"

I looked at him, he did look really guilty, I looked around the group before looking back at him.

"If I didn't believe in second chances I wouldn't be here." I said truthfully. "The one thing I can not forgive is idolising that red suit wearing, long haired low life."

"Pegasus?" Duke said surprised, I saw that he spotted all of our faces darken.

"We have an interesting history we will leave it at that," I said looking at Grandpa. He frowned, but before he could press any further the devil appeared.

"Email for Devlin boy. Email for Devlin boy."

I glanced at the laptop screen. That bloody rabbit!

"They did send a contract after all. They wanna take Dungeon Dice Monster's global!" Duke said his voice raising an octave, we all cheered.

"Congratulations, Duke," Yugi smiled.

"So er, what made yah pick Domino City?" Joey asked him.

"Partly because of Yugi, and also this is a big gaming area so it seemed like a logical place to get up the store before I headed back home."

"You're leaving?" Téaasked.

"Yeah I head back to California half way through the year. I have online classes mostly, but I thought it would be fun to go to school here. Great way to advertise the store."

"Well we are glad you're staying for a while," Téasaid warmly.

"Thanks," Duke smiled at us all…

"_This is boring," I said putting my head in my hand, Mahad was scowling at me. _

"_You need to know the theory too, Mana," he said his tone slightly impatient. _

"_I want to play with the Prince, his lesion is finished and he is the Prince!"_

"_And one day you will may have to save his life. How can you help him if you don't know."_

_I slumped he had a point. I sighed. _

"_Fine, so how does the actual process of a silencing spell work." I surrender keeping my head rested on my hand as I wrote notes on his speech. _

I woke with a start. Closing my eyes I thought back on the dream. I must have been about twelve there. I could hear Yugi rustling as he made it out of bed. After yesterday's dramatic start to the term, as I put on my uniform I hoped today would go back to normal, well as normal as it could get for a 5000 year spirit in a double of what was once her body before she died. Sighing I grabbed my bag.

"Yug, you done?"

"Yeah," he said, so I pulled back the curtain.

"Let's go,"

We caught up with the guys before class. I was excited, we had history first period. I sat up straight as Mr Bradley came into the class room.

"Now students, we are going to study something a little more interesting for this term different to the usual curriculum." Mr Bradley said. We all looked around excited.

He pulled the covering the board. "In the spirit of having the museums new exhibit we are going to learn about the newly discovered parts of ancient Egypt."

I burst out laughing.

"Something amusing Miss Muto," he said.

"No, no sir, it's just I've been studying that era independently, I live and breathe this era it's like I was there." I said, all of our group snickered.

"She isn't lying sir, it's like she was born there," Joey said. He frowned at us but pressed on.

"Very well can anyone tell me who this is?" he said holding a painting of a man.

"Pharaoh Aknamkanon," I blurted out, covering my mouth to muffle the 'he took me in after the village fire."

"Correct well done Mana," he said warmly. "Now can anyone tell me something important you had to do when meeting the Pharaoh?" He asked.

"Put your left foot before the king," I blurted again.

"Very good, why?"

"Because the heart controlled the body, you have to present your soul to the Pharaoh." I said calmly luckily that reason came to me in the last blurt.

"Yes you see in those times they thought the heart was the brain if that makes sense they thought that it controlled your movements, your emotions. Of course now we know it is the brain that does these things. Now next lesson we will get onto more facts but for this one we are going to speak of the legends based around Pharaoh Aknamkanon and his son, who's name we have yet to decipher." He glanced at Yugi. "It seems his name is literally scratched from records."

"Yugi," he said, making Yugi jump and look up nervously, he had obviously been talking to the Pharaoh.

"Yes, sir,"

"What can you tell me about the millennium items," he said smiling. "Seeing as you have one,"

"Er, there are seven all said to have different powers, for example the millennium eye is said to read your mind."

"How about your puzzle do you know the power behind that?" Mr Bradley asked.

"No I don't know," he said nervously.

"I apparently it is the key to the other items power that is why the Pharaoh wore it. So there you go royalty had worn that puzzle." he said. "It gave the Egyptians who wore it power to enter the Shadow Realm, a dark and dangerous place."

"Yeah don't we know it," I heard Téa grumble behind me.

"The puzzle has a legend around it. Legend has is Aknamkanon's son sealed the power of the shadows away in doing so locked himself within the puzzle. It shattered erasing his memory which is said to have the key of what will trap the darkness for eternity. According to legend only the chosen one can complete the puzzle and unearth the ancient pharaoh from within it. So tell me Yugi do you sense this powerful Pharaoh," Mr Bradley teased. He obviously didn't believe it.

"Sure, all the time; he's listening right now hoping you will say something about his life." He said back in a serious tone, but in a way that it also could sound like he was kidding.

"Well hello ancient Pharaoh it is a pleasure teaching you," he said putting his left leg towards Yugi. Everyone burst out laughing, our group the loudest.

They have no idea, I thought amused. I could see Yugi's frightened look, I guessed the Pharaoh was teasing him about making an appearance.

"Settle, settle now." Mr Bradley said chuckling. He pulled out photographs.

"Ok here is a hieroglyphics alphabet sheet so you can decipher these tablets that the museum allowed us to take for your class." He began to pass a photo and an alphabet sheet per person. "You have to the end of the lesson work in groups."

I turned over to Yugi so did Téa, Joey and Tristan.

"Could this get any easier, I mean we have two ancient Egyptians with us." Tristan said.

"But we have no memory of the time; I know most of that through private studying. He knows more about our history than we do," I sighed glancing at Mr Bradley.

"Come on let's find something about your past." Yugi said; I looked at the sheet.

"This is the prophecy the pharaoh and I tried to read as children!" I gasped looking at Yugi. "You know what I told you about a few days ago, this is the same one!" I said looking at it. "_Thy chosen king shall return with his sorceress and thee's flesh and blood._" I said.

"You can understand it!" Joey yelled making everyone else turn.

"Of course I can stupid," I hissed too quietly for anyone not on the table to hear.

"Is there a problem," Mr Bradley came over.

"No, Mana can read the text," Joey said.

"I learnt when I was little I have always been obsessed with Egypt." I said using my usual lie, kicking Joey under the table.

"So what was your favourite era before this one was discovered?"

"Er the new kingdom it is similar to how the lives of this era lived of course if you believe in the magic." I said smiling. "I know it so well I feel like I lived my first life there." I said jokily. He chuckled.

"Well then maybe you are the sorceress the prophecy predicts, she was called Mana too, and she was best friend of the Pharaoh. It would be rather odd if you were." He said.

"Why?" I asked looking at the others, why would it be? What the hell is going on now.

"Because the prophecy says that in this life you and the Pharaoh complete that in which you couldn't in your time, have an heir. You see, they were in love, an odd for a Pharaoh the nameless Pharaoh only wanted one wife and he wished to marry her after the war, they remained celibate, but she was killed in battle. He couldn't live without her, but her loss gave him the strength to do what had to be done lock all the magic away using his name as the key, he shattered his memory and locked his spirit within the puzzle, knowing he and his love would return. Of course they would have to fall in love all over again. The legend says that she will begin to regain her memories as she was reincarnated" He said, gesturing teasingly to Mana. "A replica of her past self like a doppelganger but it's her. Once she re-entered the shadow realm her memory would begin to piece together telling the Pharaoh where he can unlock his own memories destroying darkness forever."

We all looked at him our jaws on the floor.

"What!" I said alarmed when I snapped out of it, reading through the passage, my cheeks glowing crimson. Talk about information overload.

"Falling in love with a spirit that lives inside your brother, the movie rights itself," he joked.

I tried to laugh but it died on the way out so Téa, Tristan and Joey laughed for me.

"Yeah you could make a decent movie out of that." Joey said. Sir grinned and walked away again and everyone turned to me.

"Has he got that right?" Téa said.

"It says it right here," I said pointing at what I knew they wouldn't understand. "I'll read it out. _'The life taken before destiny could unfold this plan on these two. In the new life thee shall complete the feeling thee began before the battle of the world. A new heir of Egypt shall be born. So let it be written so let it be done_.' It's here in plan engl – hieroglyphics."

"So you and the Pharaoh were in love each other back then?" Yugi said, touching the puzzle.

"I dunno I can't remember enough, I mean were kids playing tag in the palace gardens what does the Pharaoh say," I said quietly, my blush going brighter as I thought about this heir to Egypt.

"He is stunned by the prophecy, that's for sure." Yugi said. I noticed the question was avoided, my stomach flipped did this mean the Pharaoh liked me… No! Stop, this is insane!

"Mana how about you?" Yugi said. "Do you feel like that with the Pharaoh?" I blushed.

"Well they are going to have a kid apparently, now that would be interesting concept right Yug," Joey said sniggering; both Yugi and I were unable to look at each other our faces burning the skin of our face. I heard Téa whack him.

"Ouch!"

"Quiet acting like a moron," she said.

"Answer Yugi's question Mana," Téa said.

"I only see him in duels I haven't really gotten to know him properly how can I like him without truly knowing him. It's not all about appearance,"

"She's dodging the question." Tristan said grinning. "She wants the new Prince or Princess of Egypt, or trying for them anyway,"

"Tristan Taylor have you forgotten I can turn you into a toad if I want to," I hissed too quietly for anyone off the table to hear, glaring at him making him shrink.

"Nope, that's why he's teasing you cause you and the Pharaoh are going to get it –" I covered Joey's mouth before he could even finish his sentence. I was amazed that I was still conscious surely all the blood in my body had gone to my face.

"Don't even attempt to finish that sentence," I growled at him.

"Then don't dodge the question and we'll stop," Tristan said hiding behind Yugi. I went to grab him.

"No your brother and your lover are my body guard."

"That's it your practice," I snarled under my breath.

"No she isn't," Téa said before I did do something in front of everyone. "She said she doesn't know the Pharaoh well enough to like him like that." Téa said, I glared at the two idiots as though to say _see_. "But she mentioned she finds him attractive," Téa said smirking.

"I never said that!" I said hotly.

"So you're saying he's ugly," Joey said, pulling away from me.

"No, I said it's not all about appearances,"

"Meaning that you like his, because Yugi does change when the Pharaoh's in charge." Téa said, I blushed again.

"You can find someone good looking without liking them, for example Kaiba is, but I wouldn't touch him with a ten-foot pole. You two as much as it pains me to say this, are attractive but I personally don't see either of you like that. Mai is beautiful and I can say that as a girl and not be attracted to her." I said but I could tell by Téa's expression she had busted me; the others were blissfully clueless. They had a Y chromosome. They wouldn't get it.

"I've had enough of this foolishness," Kaiba snapped from the back of the class.

"Mr Kaiba?" Mr Bradley said. "What has gotten into you?"

"I've had enough of this magical Egyptian nonsense." He said and stormed from the classroom.

"What's that about?" Joey said glaring at Kaiba as he left, I stood up and read the script Kaiba's group had.

Ah, thought this is about the sacred guards of the nameless Pharaoh. I went back to my table ignoring everyone's looks.

"Yugi can you remember what I said about the sacred guards," I whisper so no one can over hear.

"Yeah," Yugi said picking up.

"I think he can read it too, like I could when I first tried, I think he can read it like it was English and stormed out before he even read his name."

"Kaiba –!" Joey began to shout, Téa quickly covered his mouth.

"Will you shut up!" she hissed. I suddenly smiled and concentrated on a spell I had been working on.

"Back to your own text you five," Mr Bradley said. I could see Joey's grin, but I smirked.

Joey mouthed moved but no sound came out, when he realised he tried again. Tristan tried and failed.

"Ha," I said, all four of them looked at me. "I knew that spell would come in handy shame I didn't look up the reversal." Their eyes widened.

"You know I could tease you," Yugi said.

"Really you're going to tease me and the person who shares your body,"

"I never said I'd tease the pharaoh, why Mana is he on your mind or something?" he said his eyes twinkling.

"Boys!" I hissed. "Let's just read the rest of the Prophecy." I grumbled.

"Sure," Téa said she looked like she was resisting something. "Queen Mana," she said obviously unable to hold it, I gave her a betrayed glare.

"Ok full thing. '_Born when the world will need them most, the Pharaoh who can summon the Egyptian Gods to protect him, shall be the king to destroy the darkness.'" _

We all looked at the puzzle.

"'_Three shall be born in this time, untied they all have a role in the threat that can cause destruction to the world. Not all shall be fulfilled in this life. The Pharaoh, his cousin and his love shall come again when the darkness returns and the Shadow Realm is reborn. She who loved him before shall find him and be close to the solver. The life taken before destiny could unfold this plan on these two. In the new life thee shall complete the feeling thee began before the battle of the world. A new heir of Egypt shall be born. So let it be written so let it be done_.'"

We all sat in silence for a moment.

"That's how you found us," Yugi finally whispered. "You must have been drawn to the puzzle… to him…"

"To the magic," I said my cheeks tinging. "So it sounds like we made the darkness sleep for 5000 years and now we need to destroy it once and for all." I traced over the markings. I knew Pegasus was a test run and we would soon face great danger. I looked at our group hoping that we could win. For them…

I was scribbling a scene that had flashed into my memory when I practiced a spell the day before. When I heard Yugi knock on his wardrobe, a way of letting me know he wanted to come to my part of the room.

"May I enter?" I heard a familiar deep voice. That wasn't Yugi.

"Course," I said trying not to blush.

He came in and sat on my bed.

"Well school was interesting for once," I said smiling nervously. "Which reminds me I've started to draw out moments from the dreams. Here, that was us getting told off by your father," I said handing him the sketch.

"You look terrified," he said, frowning slightly as he stroked the face of the six-year-old me.

"Yeah I am frightened of him I don't know why he's always been gentle when I've spoken to him I only looked at his face because he crouched down and tilted my chin." I said showing him the rest.

"That's the first one," I said showing him, me running from him both laughing as we ran. He smiled at it stroking the picture.

"Thank you for showing me these drawings Mana," he said.

"No problem I think I am going to make a little time line try and fit the memories in the right places you know."

"It is a good idea," he agreed. "Hopefully it will help with my own memories woes." He said.

"I hope so," I smiled at him, trying to ignore the flutter in my heart.

_**Hey sorry it took so long to update this chapter, I have a lot more uni work as this is my last semester as an undergrad. **_

_**Sorry! Enjoy!**_


End file.

Yu-Gi-Oh, Adventure, Romance