"Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before glancing over to Pegasus.  "He IS
okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how we met him.  He was trying to
collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a result."

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@...> wrote:
>
> "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little shocked that Atemu knew that much.
"But he seems fine now." He added He turned to look over his shoulder, smiling
slightly as he watched Pegasus having an almost bubbly chat with Varon. "But....
After his little.... escapade, I still find it a bit dodgy to talk to him
about.... magic and the like." Noting that Rafael and Yugi might take their
time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized his hands and the tools he needed
in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is going to sting.... But I'm sure you
already know that." He added sheepishly, taking out a bottle of salt water he
suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> >
> > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit off?"  Atemu guessed.
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > >
> > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that Rafael and Yugi
just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to prevent the habit
of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous. Despite his tense
outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach. He was in his
office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his office, but
not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a broom tucked
by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were converging, he
saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to explain. 
> > >
> > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the Settlement's
watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he was not
imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a human
being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > >
> > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a panicked induced
hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw.... some things....
That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started quietly. "The...
Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath and shook his
head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what I saw." Using
every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's. "Atemu-sama,
I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please understand...
I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That does not mean
I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to believe. But I can't
help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his forehead. "And what you
just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three millennia ago...." He
forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus-san, yes. But after his wife died.... I don't
know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became so desperate in
bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But he....he..." He sighed
once again, lowering his head as he trailed off, not knowing how he should
continue. 
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that Rafael and Yugi
just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to prevent the habit
of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous. Despite his tense
outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach. He was in his
office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his office, but
not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a broom tucked
by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were converging, he
saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to explain. 
> > > >
> > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the
Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he
was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a
human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > >
> > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a panicked
induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw.... some
things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus, yes. But after his wife
died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became so
desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he fell silent, not sure
how he should continue.
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at Atemu.  "Behave yourself." 
Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning Rafael to follow him.
> > > > >
> > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't care if you think I'm
delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and he's not nearly so polite
about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to accept when I can call out
the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the planet, can call out the
Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying, Atemu-sama." Dishi stated
quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away, biting his lip as he tried to
figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple and unoffending way. Bluntly
stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional would surely get him in a lot of
trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to approach the situation. 
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's voice cut in. Dishi visibly
relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the things he had asked. There
was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears poking out of his coat pocket,
much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice sounded calm. But the doctor noted
the tense and rather apprehensive look on his face. Perhaps he overheard their
conversation. 
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm tone as he turned to the
addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a word with you, alone?" 
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't have to believe me.  But tell
me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying to you?"  Atemu asked.  "Tell
you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the Millennium Items.  You trust him,
don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium Items, and my connection to them.  See
what you can find out."
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not know what to say. But he could
honestly say that he had heard worse.... From patients with schizophrenia. But
he was not about to say that out loud. Other than that claim, Atemu showed no
other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia. Or perhaps he was yet to see it.
But then again, he also believed that science could not explain everything.
"Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and hard to believe."  Yugi
commented.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was something Dishi had not
expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely confused.  "You're
supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A part time experience
in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his cool when faced with
highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?"  Yugi asked Atemu quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why not.  I don't see any reason
not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.  "And I think we owe him the
truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his agreement.  Atemu turned back
to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if you want.  I won't hold it
against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand years ago, in Egypt.  My
spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to be sent home, but we lost
the means."
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost alike." Dishi said in
disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's brother.  Not biologically I
mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure him that he didn't mean it
in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt." Dishi recalled. "I sense an
interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell you where he got his
inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because they're very closely
related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using Yugi's name."  Atemu
glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people were within earshot. 
"Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite something." Dishi said, wondering
whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he shook it off. Waving his hand, he
added. "You have your reasons and I respect that." He smiled. "Our acquaintance
is still new. But I can say that you seem to be decent people. Helping each
other to the point of taking yourselves for granted.." He glanced at Atemu and
Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So whatever reason it is, I'm sure it is
understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times."  Atemu commented fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu."  Yugi answered.  "The
circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe.  But Atemu won that
title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad, like a case of fraud
or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous gulp, Dishi quickly hid the
Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence was irking the scariest man
he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was irritate him further.
"Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh when he saw it being
played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or was that you,
Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not up to date when
it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is either one of
you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding the king of
games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come on.  Settle down.  Your
head's not gonna feel any better getting in another fight with Kaiba-kun."  Yugi
reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't help it."  Atemu responded
defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave Atemu a sour look over his
shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned, sarcasm dripping from his
voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look, Kaiba.  It's your best
friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi, who had been watching the
exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I could use some assistance in
sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing to the surgical tools he had
placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for Rafael-San to return,
though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He stated, giving Yugi
and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a way of staying in
people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reached into his satchel,
pulling out a fist sized lump of brown cotton with green appendages.  "I have to
be honest. Pegasus-San and I may have been friends but this is the only thing I
know about his game." He held the lump for Yugi and Atemu to see. "This belonged
to my son. He would carry this thing  wherever he would go,  absolutely refusing
to leave it, and wailing if I accidentally forgot to bring it. I think he calls
it Furrybow or..Something like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ----------
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > The brown lump is a Kuriboh stuffed
toy. :)
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not normally a restless
sleeper, no.  Only when something disturbs me.  Like sensing that bear for
example.  I'll wait until you're done if you'd prefer.  To make sure I don't
move about while you're working."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Do you need to be tied down to
rest?"  Yugi asked as he approached the bed.  He'd been with a party checking to
make sure they hadn't missed anyone, and had only just returned.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "No, I don't."  Atemu responded. 
"I've already quit, honest.  No more trying to help until I'm better."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Better late than never."  Yugi
remarked, crossing his arms.  "D'you have any idea how much you've made people
worry about you?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well considering this is your
thirty seventh lecture, yes, I believe I do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, you're not funny, and I'm
not kidding around here.  Do you WANT it to get worse?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course I don't."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Then follow the doctor's orders! 
How many more times?!"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Like I said, I'm going to behave
now.  And I'm sorry I made you worry."  Atemu replied.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed.  "Look, I know it's
just in your nature to watch out for everyone.  But being reckless is counter
productive.  You can't help anyone when you put yourself out of commission."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know..."  Atemu groaned, fed up
with lecture.  "I already said I'd behave."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well you said that every other
time, so forgive me for not buying it."  Yugi responded.  "You were supposed to
be resting, and getting knocked out trying to deal with a bear doesn't count."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Seriously, Yugi.  I'm honestly
just wanting to sleep.  My head hurts, and I'm tired, and I gotta say I'm
finding it increasingly difficult to focus on what you're saying."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi's gaze softened.  "You had me
worried sick."  He finished.  "AGAIN."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "It won't happen again."  Atemu
replied.  "Duellist's honour."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed.  "Alright.  I'll hold
you to that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "You won't be disappointed." 
Atemu assured him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good."  Yugi looked at Dishi. 
"Is there anything I can help you with?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course you can, Atemu-sama"
Dishi said eagerly, happy that Atemu was willing to cooperate. "But I do hope
you are not the fidgety type when asleep though. You are not fidgety when
asleep, right?" He added hopefully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu, hunched down a little
in guilt, glanced over at Kaiba sheepishly, before facing Dishi again.  "I'm
kinda tired by the way, and I have a bit of a headache.  Am I allowed to try
sleep that off?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "And I'll be around to make
sure you do." Rafael said sternly, his face scrunching up into a scowl as the
thought of amputation crossed his mind. "Anything else that would be advised,
Doc?" He added, turning to Dishi.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi had resumed digging in
his satchel, pulling out a surgical needle, a roll of nylon thread, and a pair
of forceps before acknowledging Rafael. "Well, an increased dose of garlic would
be good. and right now, I need a bowl of salt water or vinegar, and a clean
cloth to start re-stitching this"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael gave a wordless nod,
shooting Atemu and Kaiba a look that promised impending doom should they give
the doctor any trouble, before leaving to get what was asked. Before making his
way to the door, he approached a zoned out Varon who was innocently sitting by
Amelda's bedside. "Keep an eye on those two for me." He said, leaving before the
latter could respond.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu winced a little,
visualizing such an outcome.  It wasn't that he thought he was immune to such an
ailment, or even that it hadn't occurred to him.  He just got so caught up in
worrying about everyone else that he simply forgot about the consequences.  With
nothing else to occupy himself, he had no choice but to think about the risks. 
And he wasn't sure about how he could cope with one arm.  His archery ability
would be straight out the window for one thing, and multi tasking would be more
difficult.  "Okay, okay, I'll take it easy."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well, I'm sorry to say
this, Atemu-sama..." Dishi began, a little hesitant to continue before he
finally mustered up the courage. "But you have no choice but to do so." He
gently grasped Atemu's arm, just below the injury. "If you do not rest, this
could get worse. Consider the possibility of developing sepsis, or even
gangrene. And, as extreme as this sounds, you could lose this limb if the latter
would happen" He added, recalling one patient who developed gangrene from a
maltreated injury.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know.  And I'm
sorry for making you all worry."  Atemu replied.  "Everyone looks to me, and
that makes me responsible for them.  I just want to keep them safe.  I've never
been one to lead from the rear."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi mumbled a soft
'thank you' before gently laying a hand around the injury. He undid the bandages
and took a careful look, biting his lip upon seeing the thread snapped in
various places, allowing blood to seep through. "This needs to be re-stitched"
He mumbled as he buried his free hand in his satchel. "Atemu-sama" He added,
sounding quite desperate. "You really need to be more careful. You won't have a
quick recovery if you...keep this up" He wanted to say something along the lines
of acting completely irrational. But he decided to play safe. His self appointed
assistant, however, had other plans.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "In other words,
quit ramming yourself into trouble." Rafael snapped, inspecting Atemu's wound
over the doctor's shoulder.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu moved his
hand out of the way, to allow Dishi to take a look and show his permission.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi stopped
the urge to click his tongue as he approached Atemu. "I hope you don't mind.."
He added as he made a move to hold Atemu's arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu brought
his right hand up over the bandage guiltily.  "I think it's been like that a
while now."  He commented.  He decided not to mention the boxes in the garage,
or being shoved by Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael
snorted as he watched Anzu leave before turning to face Kaiba and Atemu.
"Speaking of Atemu's options..." He made sure to keep his eyes glued to Atemu's
before continuing. "I don't think he'll have the option of getting up and moving
around whenever he wants as you put it, Kaiba." His gaze moved to the former
Pharaoh's arm. "He just burst his stitches, judging from the blood stain there."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Anzu
nodded, glanced quickly at Kaiba, and went to see if she could help someone
else.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba
regarded Anzu silently, irritated by her presence.  He still didn't have much
time for the girl, but right now he was more annoyed at himself for not noticing
her sooner.  The whole situation was infuriating, and he was quickly growing
tired of it.  The first chance he had, he was making a break for it, crutches or
no crutches.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "No,
not really."  Atemu responded with a small shake of his head.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Anzu, who had been standing close by for a few minutes, silently listened to
Atemu and Kaiba before deciding to finally make her presence known. "Is there
anything I can get you Atemu?"  She asked.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---
In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
"That's easy for you to say."  Kaiba grumbled.  "You have the option of getting
up and moving around a bit when you want...  I can't without crutches.  I need
something to do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
"And I didn't?"  Atemu asked, raising an eyebrow.  "Kaiba, take it from me, just
listen to the doctor.  The grief for not doing so isn't worth it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> "But I have responsibilities."  Kaiba insisted.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > Atemu glanced down at his arm, then looked up smirking.  "I'm sitting in
here with a concussion for not taking it easy when I was told to.  Do you REALLY
want to follow my example and ignore their advice?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > "Possibly."  Kaiba shrugged.  "I don't know."  He cleared his throat. 
"But I don't have time to be like this.  There's so much to be done.  I'm
supposed to be taking care of things, so you can rest and recover."  He looked
pointedly at Atemu's bandaged arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > Atemu had removed his jacket, and was examining the bandage around his
arm, noting the blood soaking through in silence, before glancing up.  "I
noticed something was bothering you in the garage yesterday.  Is it the same
thing?"  He asked Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > "It's...just a cough."  Kaiba forced out, though he was shocked
himself.  When the attack finally died down, he was left breathless, feeling
weak and shaky.  He dropped back down to sit on his bed, giving up on getting
his crutches from Rafael.  Instead, he focussed on trying to breath properly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > Rafael looked taken aback the moment Kaiba coughed. From what he was
aware of, Kaiba suffered from physical injuries. Not a disease. Apparently, he
was not the only one who was shocked.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > "Kaiba-sama" Dishi said half heartedly, taking one small step
towards �Kaiba. �The man has a sprained ankle and just got himself a cough,
yet he still refused to back down. He's the very definition of pigheaded. Dishi
had to suppress a whine. "That sounds serious. You can't leave in that
state."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@yahoo groups.co.uk, "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Then give me back my god damn crutches!"  Kaiba practically
bellowed, now completely losing his temper.  He didn't like how Rafael had
advanced on him like that, but he wasn't about to back down.  He'd never backed
down from anything, and he had no intentions of starting now.  But his chest was
starting to burn and his eyes were watering, only adding to his anger.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Finally, he couldn't hold it in any longer, and turned away with a
painful sounding cough.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Dishi looked like he was going to pass out upon seeing Kaiba up
on his feet. He gave Rafael a torn look. Part of him wanted to let Kaiba have
his way. But another part knew that if Kaiba continued to push it, he's never
going to get any better. Considering his recklessness, he could get worse. And
he didn't even want to think of the consequences should that happen. He shrunk
back, knowing that a lot of people were looking at them, and prayed that Kaiba
would sprout at least a tinge of common sense.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Rafael, however, kept his ground. Seeing Kaiba up just made him
want to push him back down and tie him to the bed. He growled lowly as he took a
step towards Kaiba. �"Are you really that much of an idiot?" He almost
snarled. "Everyone with half a brain knows that you shouldn't even try to work
in that condition." He added, giving a pointed look at Kaiba's ankle. "But they
are afraid of the combined force of your wrath and stupidity." He glanced at
Dishi before resuming his gaze on Kaiba, his tone becoming stronger. "I may not
be an expert in medicine. But I know that if you continue being stupid, you'd
get worse."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared hatefully and stood up, forcing his ankle to take
his weight.  Rafael didn't phase him in the slightest.  It would take a lot more
than that to intimidate Seto Kaiba.  "I've heard enough.  As head of security, I
demand that you return those to me.  If not, I'll simply walk without them, and
then you'll be held responsible for any lasting damage.  Now hand them over!" 
Kaiba's tone sounded convincing enough, but his head was spinning and the urge
to cough was starting to make his eyes water.  Just what the hell was going on? 
Kaiba clenched his fists angrily.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > Rafael nodded at Atemu, giving him a small smile before
turning to Kaiba, his expression morphing from soft to rock hard and
intimidating, not at all affected by Kaiba's words. "Really?" He crossed his
arms, tucking the crutches behind him, and stood tall. "So who has the right to
take these away?" He added sarcastically, holding the crutches for Kaiba to see.
�"Then again, you have no right to walk around with that injury, so we're on a
stalemate"�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Shannon"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared up at Rafael.  "Give those back right now, or
you'll be sorry."  He said in a warning tone.  He pointed at the crutches.  "You
have no right to take them."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu shifted on the bed again, to sit with his back to
the headboard, hiding a wince at the strain on his arm.  "Better?"  He asked,
looking at Rafael.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael quirked a brow. Judging from the look on
Dishi's face, he didn't want Kaiba to get up just yet. With a slight sigh, he
took the crutches away from Kaiba's reach. "You need to rest." He said with
finality. From the corner of his eye, he could see Dishi mouthing a thank you.
"And that goes for you as well..." He added, looking at Atemu.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Shannon"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think we'd have heard about it by now."  Kaiba
muttered, forcing himself to sit up.  Swinging his legs over the side of the
bed, he reached for his crutches, which had been placed nearby.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > If something had hit the car like Atemu said, then
there was probably damage.  That meant more work for Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Ummm..."  Atemu glanced over at Kaiba, then
around the number of people who had been hurt.  "All things considered?  Yeah. 
Yeah , I'm alright.  Things could have gone a lot better if I'd had the
foresight to prepare for something like this.  Nobody died though.  Right?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

Having taken the lead, Rafael opened the door and took a step outside  before
turning to Yugi. "This conversation is best done outside." He stated bluntly as
he held onto the door from the outside. 

"To make sure a certain two people keep resting, right?"  Yugi asked, stepping
out the door.  "What's happened?"

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@...> wrote:
>
> Having taken the lead, Rafael opened the door and took a step outside  before
turning to Yugi. "This conversation is best done outside." He stated bluntly as
he held onto the door from the outside. 
>

"I have heard that he created Duel Monsters, and you being the one who beat him.
But that was all from the news." Dishi stated. "He kept pushing me away whenever
I tried to help him move on. It got to the point that he outright refused to see
me." Dishi added sadly. "We drifted apart because of that. We never had much
contact until he, Siegfried-San, and the others found me. And that was after the
pandemic struck." He vigorously shook the salt water bottle before pouring a
drop-sized amount on his finger. The scrunched up look he wore after tasting the
sample indicated that the salt water was still potent. After re-sterilizing his
hands, he poured a generous amount of salt water on the cloth Rafael brought in.
"Um... Try not to move too much." He stated, feeling sympathetic as he brought
the cloth close to Atemu's injury. 

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@...>
wrote:
>
> "Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before glancing over to Pegasus.  "He
IS okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how we met him.  He was trying to
collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a result."
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> >
> > "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little shocked that Atemu knew that
much. "But he seems fine now." He added He turned to look over his shoulder,
smiling slightly as he watched Pegasus having an almost bubbly chat with Varon.
"But.... After his little.... escapade, I still find it a bit dodgy to talk to
him about.... magic and the like." Noting that Rafael and Yugi might take their
time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized his hands and the tools he needed
in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is going to sting.... But I'm sure you
already know that." He added sheepishly, taking out a bottle of salt water he
suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > >
> > > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit off?"  Atemu guessed.
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that Rafael and Yugi
just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to prevent the habit
of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous. Despite his tense
outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach. He was in his
office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his office, but
not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a broom tucked
by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were converging, he
saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to explain. 
> > > >
> > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the
Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he
was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a
human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > >
> > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a panicked
induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw.... some
things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus-san, yes. But after his
wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became
so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he trailed off, not
knowing how he should continue. 
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that Rafael and
Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to prevent the
habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous. Despite his tense
outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach. He was in his
office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his office, but
not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a broom tucked
by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were converging, he
saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to explain. 
> > > > >
> > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the
Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he
was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a
human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > >
> > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a panicked
induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw.... some
things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus, yes. But after his wife
died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became so
desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he fell silent, not sure
how he should continue.
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at Atemu.  "Behave
yourself."  Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning Rafael to follow him.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't care if you think I'm
delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and he's not nearly so polite
about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to accept when I can call out
the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the planet, can call out the
Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying, Atemu-sama." Dishi stated
quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away, biting his lip as he tried to
figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple and unoffending way. Bluntly
stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional would surely get him in a lot of
trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to approach the situation. 
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's voice cut in. Dishi visibly
relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the things he had asked. There
was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears poking out of his coat pocket,
much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice sounded calm. But the doctor noted
the tense and rather apprehensive look on his face. Perhaps he overheard their
conversation. 
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm tone as he turned to the
addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a word with you, alone?" 
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't have to believe me.  But
tell me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying to you?"  Atemu asked. 
"Tell you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the Millennium Items.  You trust
him, don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium Items, and my connection to them. 
See what you can find out."
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not know what to say. But he
could honestly say that he had heard worse.... From patients with schizophrenia.
But he was not about to say that out loud. Other than that claim, Atemu showed
no other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia. Or perhaps he was yet to see
it. But then again, he also believed that science could not explain everything.
"Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and hard to believe."  Yugi
commented.
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was something Dishi had not
expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely confused.  "You're
supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A part time experience
in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his cool when faced with
highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?"  Yugi asked Atemu quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why not.  I don't see any reason
not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.  "And I think we owe him the
truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his agreement.  Atemu turned back
to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if you want.  I won't hold it
against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand years ago, in Egypt.  My
spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to be sent home, but we lost
the means."
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost alike." Dishi said in
disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's brother.  Not biologically I
mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure him that he didn't mean it
in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt." Dishi recalled. "I sense
an interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell you where he got his
inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because they're very closely
related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using Yugi's name."  Atemu
glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people were within earshot. 
"Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite something." Dishi said,
wondering whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he shook it off. Waving his
hand, he added. "You have your reasons and I respect that." He smiled. "Our
acquaintance is still new. But I can say that you seem to be decent people.
Helping each other to the point of taking yourselves for granted.." He glanced
at Atemu and Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So whatever reason it is, I'm
sure it is understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times."  Atemu commented fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu."  Yugi answered.  "The
circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe.  But Atemu won that
title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad, like a case of fraud
or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous gulp, Dishi quickly hid
the Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence was irking the scariest
man he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was irritate him further.
"Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh when he saw it being
played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or was that you,
Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not up to date when
it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is either one of
you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding the king of
games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come on.  Settle down.  Your
head's not gonna feel any better getting in another fight with Kaiba-kun."  Yugi
reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't help it."  Atemu responded
defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave Atemu a sour look over his
shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned, sarcasm dripping from his
voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look, Kaiba.  It's your best
friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi, who had been watching the
exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I could use some assistance in
sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing to the surgical tools he had
placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for Rafael-San to return,
though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He stated, giving Yugi
and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a way of staying in
people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reached into his satchel,
pulling out a fist sized lump of brown cotton with green appendages.  "I have to
be honest. Pegasus-San and I may have been friends but this is the only thing I
know about his game." He held the lump for Yugi and Atemu to see. "This belonged
to my son. He would carry this thing  wherever he would go,  absolutely refusing
to leave it, and wailing if I accidentally forgot to bring it. I think he calls
it Furrybow or..Something like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ----------
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > The brown lump is a Kuriboh
stuffed toy. :)
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not normally a restless
sleeper, no.  Only when something disturbs me.  Like sensing that bear for
example.  I'll wait until you're done if you'd prefer.  To make sure I don't
move about while you're working."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Do you need to be tied down to
rest?"  Yugi asked as he approached the bed.  He'd been with a party checking to
make sure they hadn't missed anyone, and had only just returned.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "No, I don't."  Atemu responded.
"I've already quit, honest.  No more trying to help until I'm better."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Better late than never."  Yugi
remarked, crossing his arms.  "D'you have any idea how much you've made people
worry about you?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well considering this is your
thirty seventh lecture, yes, I believe I do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, you're not funny, and
I'm not kidding around here.  Do you WANT it to get worse?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course I don't."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Then follow the doctor's
orders!  How many more times?!"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Like I said, I'm going to
behave now.  And I'm sorry I made you worry."  Atemu replied.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed.  "Look, I know it's
just in your nature to watch out for everyone.  But being reckless is counter
productive.  You can't help anyone when you put yourself out of commission."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know..."  Atemu groaned, fed
up with lecture.  "I already said I'd behave."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well you said that every other
time, so forgive me for not buying it."  Yugi responded.  "You were supposed to
be resting, and getting knocked out trying to deal with a bear doesn't count."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Seriously, Yugi.  I'm honestly
just wanting to sleep.  My head hurts, and I'm tired, and I gotta say I'm
finding it increasingly difficult to focus on what you're saying."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi's gaze softened.  "You had
me worried sick."  He finished.  "AGAIN."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "It won't happen again."  Atemu
replied.  "Duellist's honour."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed.  "Alright.  I'll
hold you to that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "You won't be disappointed." 
Atemu assured him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good."  Yugi looked at Dishi. 
"Is there anything I can help you with?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course you can,
Atemu-sama" Dishi said eagerly, happy that Atemu was willing to cooperate. "But
I do hope you are not the fidgety type when asleep though. You are not fidgety
when asleep, right?" He added hopefully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu, hunched down a little
in guilt, glanced over at Kaiba sheepishly, before facing Dishi again.  "I'm
kinda tired by the way, and I have a bit of a headache.  Am I allowed to try
sleep that off?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "And I'll be around to
make sure you do." Rafael said sternly, his face scrunching up into a scowl as
the thought of amputation crossed his mind. "Anything else that would be
advised, Doc?" He added, turning to Dishi.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi had resumed digging
in his satchel, pulling out a surgical needle, a roll of nylon thread, and a
pair of forceps before acknowledging Rafael. "Well, an increased dose of garlic
would be good. and right now, I need a bowl of salt water or vinegar, and a
clean cloth to start re-stitching this"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael gave a wordless
nod, shooting Atemu and Kaiba a look that promised impending doom should they
give the doctor any trouble, before leaving to get what was asked. Before making
his way to the door, he approached a zoned out Varon who was innocently sitting
by Amelda's bedside. "Keep an eye on those two for me." He said, leaving before
the latter could respond.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu winced a little,
visualizing such an outcome.  It wasn't that he thought he was immune to such an
ailment, or even that it hadn't occurred to him.  He just got so caught up in
worrying about everyone else that he simply forgot about the consequences.  With
nothing else to occupy himself, he had no choice but to think about the risks. 
And he wasn't sure about how he could cope with one arm.  His archery ability
would be straight out the window for one thing, and multi tasking would be more
difficult.  "Okay, okay, I'll take it easy."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well, I'm sorry to
say this, Atemu-sama..." Dishi began, a little hesitant to continue before he
finally mustered up the courage. "But you have no choice but to do so." He
gently grasped Atemu's arm, just below the injury. "If you do not rest, this
could get worse. Consider the possibility of developing sepsis, or even
gangrene. And, as extreme as this sounds, you could lose this limb if the latter
would happen" He added, recalling one patient who developed gangrene from a
maltreated injury.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know.  And I'm
sorry for making you all worry."  Atemu replied.  "Everyone looks to me, and
that makes me responsible for them.  I just want to keep them safe.  I've never
been one to lead from the rear."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi mumbled a
soft 'thank you' before gently laying a hand around the injury. He undid the
bandages and took a careful look, biting his lip upon seeing the thread snapped
in various places, allowing blood to seep through. "This needs to be
re-stitched" He mumbled as he buried his free hand in his satchel. "Atemu-sama"
He added, sounding quite desperate. "You really need to be more careful. You
won't have a quick recovery if you...keep this up" He wanted to say something
along the lines of acting completely irrational. But he decided to play safe.
His self appointed assistant, however, had other plans.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "In other words,
quit ramming yourself into trouble." Rafael snapped, inspecting Atemu's wound
over the doctor's shoulder.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu moved his
hand out of the way, to allow Dishi to take a look and show his permission.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi stopped
the urge to click his tongue as he approached Atemu. "I hope you don't mind.."
He added as he made a move to hold Atemu's arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu
brought his right hand up over the bandage guiltily.  "I think it's been like
that a while now."  He commented.  He decided not to mention the boxes in the
garage, or being shoved by Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael
snorted as he watched Anzu leave before turning to face Kaiba and Atemu.
"Speaking of Atemu's options..." He made sure to keep his eyes glued to Atemu's
before continuing. "I don't think he'll have the option of getting up and moving
around whenever he wants as you put it, Kaiba." His gaze moved to the former
Pharaoh's arm. "He just burst his stitches, judging from the blood stain there."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Anzu
nodded, glanced quickly at Kaiba, and went to see if she could help someone
else.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba
regarded Anzu silently, irritated by her presence.  He still didn't have much
time for the girl, but right now he was more annoyed at himself for not noticing
her sooner.  The whole situation was infuriating, and he was quickly growing
tired of it.  The first chance he had, he was making a break for it, crutches or
no crutches.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "No,
not really."  Atemu responded with a small shake of his head.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---
In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Anzu, who had been standing close by for a few minutes, silently listened to
Atemu and Kaiba before deciding to finally make her presence known. "Is there
anything I can get you Atemu?"  She asked.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
"That's easy for you to say."  Kaiba grumbled.  "You have the option of getting
up and moving around a bit when you want...  I can't without crutches.  I need
something to do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> "And I didn't?"  Atemu asked, raising an eyebrow.  "Kaiba, take it from me,
just listen to the doctor.  The grief for not doing so isn't worth it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > "But I have responsibilities."  Kaiba insisted.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > Atemu glanced down at his arm, then looked up smirking.  "I'm sitting in
here with a concussion for not taking it easy when I was told to.  Do you REALLY
want to follow my example and ignore their advice?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > "Possibly."  Kaiba shrugged.  "I don't know."  He cleared his throat. 
"But I don't have time to be like this.  There's so much to be done.  I'm
supposed to be taking care of things, so you can rest and recover."  He looked
pointedly at Atemu's bandaged arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > Atemu had removed his jacket, and was examining the bandage around his
arm, noting the blood soaking through in silence, before glancing up.  "I
noticed something was bothering you in the garage yesterday.  Is it the same
thing?"  He asked Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > "It's...just a cough."  Kaiba forced out, though he was shocked
himself.  When the attack finally died down, he was left breathless, feeling
weak and shaky.  He dropped back down to sit on his bed, giving up on getting
his crutches from Rafael.  Instead, he focussed on trying to breath properly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Rafael looked taken aback the moment Kaiba coughed. From what he
was aware of, Kaiba suffered from physical injuries. Not a disease. Apparently,
he was not the only one who was shocked.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Kaiba-sama" Dishi said half heartedly, taking one small step
towards �Kaiba. �The man has a sprained ankle and just got himself a cough,
yet he still refused to back down. He's the very definition of pigheaded. Dishi
had to suppress a whine. "That sounds serious. You can't leave in that
state."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@yahoo groups.co.uk, "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Then give me back my god damn crutches!"  Kaiba practically
bellowed, now completely losing his temper.  He didn't like how Rafael had
advanced on him like that, but he wasn't about to back down.  He'd never backed
down from anything, and he had no intentions of starting now.  But his chest was
starting to burn and his eyes were watering, only adding to his anger.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Finally, he couldn't hold it in any longer, and turned away with
a painful sounding cough.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Dishi looked like he was going to pass out upon seeing Kaiba
up on his feet. He gave Rafael a torn look. Part of him wanted to let Kaiba have
his way. But another part knew that if Kaiba continued to push it, he's never
going to get any better. Considering his recklessness, he could get worse. And
he didn't even want to think of the consequences should that happen. He shrunk
back, knowing that a lot of people were looking at them, and prayed that Kaiba
would sprout at least a tinge of common sense.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Rafael, however, kept his ground. Seeing Kaiba up just made
him want to push him back down and tie him to the bed. He growled lowly as he
took a step towards Kaiba. �"Are you really that much of an idiot?" He almost
snarled. "Everyone with half a brain knows that you shouldn't even try to work
in that condition." He added, giving a pointed look at Kaiba's ankle. "But they
are afraid of the combined force of your wrath and stupidity." He glanced at
Dishi before resuming his gaze on Kaiba, his tone becoming stronger. "I may not
be an expert in medicine. But I know that if you continue being stupid, you'd
get worse."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared hatefully and stood up, forcing his ankle to
take his weight.  Rafael didn't phase him in the slightest.  It would take a lot
more than that to intimidate Seto Kaiba.  "I've heard enough.  As head of
security, I demand that you return those to me.  If not, I'll simply walk
without them, and then you'll be held responsible for any lasting damage.  Now
hand them over!"  Kaiba's tone sounded convincing enough, but his head was
spinning and the urge to cough was starting to make his eyes water.  Just what
the hell was going on?  Kaiba clenched his fists angrily.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > Rafael nodded at Atemu, giving him a small smile before
turning to Kaiba, his expression morphing from soft to rock hard and
intimidating, not at all affected by Kaiba's words. "Really?" He crossed his
arms, tucking the crutches behind him, and stood tall. "So who has the right to
take these away?" He added sarcastically, holding the crutches for Kaiba to see.
�"Then again, you have no right to walk around with that injury, so we're on a
stalemate"�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Shannon"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared up at Rafael.  "Give those back right now,
or you'll be sorry."  He said in a warning tone.  He pointed at the crutches. 
"You have no right to take them."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu shifted on the bed again, to sit with his back
to the headboard, hiding a wince at the strain on his arm.  "Better?"  He asked,
looking at Rafael.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael quirked a brow. Judging from the look on
Dishi's face, he didn't want Kaiba to get up just yet. With a slight sigh, he
took the crutches away from Kaiba's reach. "You need to rest." He said with
finality. From the corner of his eye, he could see Dishi mouthing a thank you.
"And that goes for you as well..." He added, looking at Atemu.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Shannon"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think we'd have heard about it by now."  Kaiba
muttered, forcing himself to sit up.  Swinging his legs over the side of the
bed, he reached for his crutches, which had been placed nearby.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > If something had hit the car like Atemu said, then
there was probably damage.  That meant more work for Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Ummm..."  Atemu glanced over at Kaiba, then
around the number of people who had been hurt.  "All things considered?  Yeah. 
Yeah , I'm alright.  Things could have gone a lot better if I'd had the
foresight to prepare for something like this.  Nobody died though.  Right?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

Rafael blew out a small sigh before cutting to the chase. "I saw someone inside
the storage. Must be a thief since he ran away when I called his attention."

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@...>
wrote:
>
> "To make sure a certain two people keep resting, right?"  Yugi asked, stepping
out the door.  "What's happened?"
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> >
> > Having taken the lead, Rafael opened the door and took a step outside
 before turning to Yugi. "This conversation is best done outside." He stated
bluntly as he held onto the door from the outside. 
> >
>

"Quit fretting and get on with it already.  Oh, and uh, any swearing and ranting
is not directed at you, so don't worry about it and please don't take offence." 
Atemu responded.

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@...> wrote:
>
> "I have heard that he created Duel Monsters, and you being the one who beat
him. But that was all from the news." Dishi stated. "He kept pushing me away
whenever I tried to help him move on. It got to the point that he outright
refused to see me." Dishi added sadly. "We drifted apart because of that. We
never had much contact until he, Siegfried-San, and the others found me. And
that was after the pandemic struck." He vigorously shook the salt water bottle
before pouring a drop-sized amount on his finger. The scrunched up look he wore
after tasting the sample indicated that the salt water was still potent. After
re-sterilizing his hands, he poured a generous amount of salt water on the cloth
Rafael brought in. "Um... Try not to move too much." He stated, feeling
sympathetic as he brought the cloth close to Atemu's injury. 
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> >
> > "Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before glancing over to Pegasus.  "He
IS okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how we met him.  He was trying to
collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a result."
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > >
> > > "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little shocked that Atemu knew that
much. "But he seems fine now." He added He turned to look over his shoulder,
smiling slightly as he watched Pegasus having an almost bubbly chat with Varon.
"But.... After his little.... escapade, I still find it a bit dodgy to talk to
him about.... magic and the like." Noting that Rafael and Yugi might take their
time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized his hands and the tools he needed
in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is going to sting.... But I'm sure you
already know that." He added sheepishly, taking out a bottle of salt water he
suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit off?"  Atemu guessed.
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that Rafael and
Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to prevent the
habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous. Despite his tense
outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach. He was in his
office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his office, but
not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a broom tucked
by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were converging, he
saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to explain. 
> > > > >
> > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the
Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he
was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a
human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > >
> > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a panicked
induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw.... some
things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus-san, yes. But after his
wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became
so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he trailed off, not
knowing how he should continue. 
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that Rafael and
Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to prevent the
habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous. Despite his tense
outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach. He was in his
office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his office, but
not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a broom tucked
by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were converging, he
saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to explain. 
> > > > > >
> > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the
Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he
was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a
human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > >
> > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a panicked
induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw.... some
things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus, yes. But after his wife
died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became so
desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he fell silent, not sure
how he should continue.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at Atemu.  "Behave
yourself."  Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning Rafael to follow him.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't care if you think I'm
delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and he's not nearly so polite
about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to accept when I can call out
the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the planet, can call out the
Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying, Atemu-sama." Dishi stated
quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away, biting his lip as he tried to
figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple and unoffending way. Bluntly
stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional would surely get him in a lot of
trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to approach the situation. 
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's voice cut in. Dishi
visibly relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the things he had
asked. There was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears poking out of his
coat pocket, much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice sounded calm. But the
doctor noted the tense and rather apprehensive look on his face. Perhaps he
overheard their conversation. 
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm tone as he turned to the
addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a word with you, alone?" 
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't have to believe me.  But
tell me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying to you?"  Atemu asked. 
"Tell you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the Millennium Items.  You trust
him, don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium Items, and my connection to them. 
See what you can find out."
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not know what to say. But he
could honestly say that he had heard worse.... From patients with schizophrenia.
But he was not about to say that out loud. Other than that claim, Atemu showed
no other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia. Or perhaps he was yet to see
it. But then again, he also believed that science could not explain everything.
"Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and hard to believe."  Yugi
commented.
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was something Dishi had not
expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely confused.  "You're
supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A part time experience
in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his cool when faced with
highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?"  Yugi asked Atemu
quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why not.  I don't see any
reason not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.  "And I think we owe
him the truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his agreement.  Atemu
turned back to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if you want.  I won't
hold it against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand years ago, in
Egypt.  My spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to be sent home,
but we lost the means."
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost alike." Dishi said in
disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's brother.  Not biologically
I mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure him that he didn't mean it
in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt." Dishi recalled. "I sense
an interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell you where he got his
inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because they're very closely
related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using Yugi's name."  Atemu
glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people were within earshot. 
"Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite something." Dishi said,
wondering whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he shook it off. Waving his
hand, he added. "You have your reasons and I respect that." He smiled. "Our
acquaintance is still new. But I can say that you seem to be decent people.
Helping each other to the point of taking yourselves for granted.." He glanced
at Atemu and Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So whatever reason it is, I'm
sure it is understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times."  Atemu commented fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu."  Yugi answered.  "The
circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe.  But Atemu won that
title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad, like a case of fraud
or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous gulp, Dishi quickly hid
the Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence was irking the scariest
man he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was irritate him further.
"Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh when he saw it being
played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or was that you,
Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not up to date when
it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is either one of
you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding the king of
games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come on.  Settle down.  Your
head's not gonna feel any better getting in another fight with Kaiba-kun."  Yugi
reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't help it."  Atemu responded
defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave Atemu a sour look over
his shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned, sarcasm dripping from
his voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look, Kaiba.  It's your best
friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi, who had been watching the
exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I could use some assistance in
sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing to the surgical tools he had
placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for Rafael-San to return,
though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He stated, giving Yugi
and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a way of staying in
people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reached into his satchel,
pulling out a fist sized lump of brown cotton with green appendages.  "I have to
be honest. Pegasus-San and I may have been friends but this is the only thing I
know about his game." He held the lump for Yugi and Atemu to see. "This belonged
to my son. He would carry this thing  wherever he would go,  absolutely refusing
to leave it, and wailing if I accidentally forgot to bring it. I think he calls
it Furrybow or..Something like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ----------
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > The brown lump is a Kuriboh
stuffed toy. :)
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not normally a restless
sleeper, no.  Only when something disturbs me.  Like sensing that bear for
example.  I'll wait until you're done if you'd prefer.  To make sure I don't
move about while you're working."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Do you need to be tied down
to rest?"  Yugi asked as he approached the bed.  He'd been with a party checking
to make sure they hadn't missed anyone, and had only just returned.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "No, I don't."  Atemu
responded.  "I've already quit, honest.  No more trying to help until I'm
better."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Better late than never." 
Yugi remarked, crossing his arms.  "D'you have any idea how much you've made
people worry about you?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well considering this is your
thirty seventh lecture, yes, I believe I do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, you're not funny, and
I'm not kidding around here.  Do you WANT it to get worse?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course I don't."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Then follow the doctor's
orders!  How many more times?!"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Like I said, I'm going to
behave now.  And I'm sorry I made you worry."  Atemu replied.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed.  "Look, I know
it's just in your nature to watch out for everyone.  But being reckless is
counter productive.  You can't help anyone when you put yourself out of
commission."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know..."  Atemu groaned,
fed up with lecture.  "I already said I'd behave."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well you said that every
other time, so forgive me for not buying it."  Yugi responded.  "You were
supposed to be resting, and getting knocked out trying to deal with a bear
doesn't count."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Seriously, Yugi.  I'm
honestly just wanting to sleep.  My head hurts, and I'm tired, and I gotta say
I'm finding it increasingly difficult to focus on what you're saying."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi's gaze softened.  "You
had me worried sick."  He finished.  "AGAIN."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "It won't happen again." 
Atemu replied.  "Duellist's honour."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed.  "Alright.  I'll
hold you to that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "You won't be disappointed." 
Atemu assured him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good."  Yugi looked at Dishi.
"Is there anything I can help you with?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course you can,
Atemu-sama" Dishi said eagerly, happy that Atemu was willing to cooperate. "But
I do hope you are not the fidgety type when asleep though. You are not fidgety
when asleep, right?" He added hopefully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu, hunched down a
little in guilt, glanced over at Kaiba sheepishly, before facing Dishi again. 
"I'm kinda tired by the way, and I have a bit of a headache.  Am I allowed to
try sleep that off?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "And I'll be around to
make sure you do." Rafael said sternly, his face scrunching up into a scowl as
the thought of amputation crossed his mind. "Anything else that would be
advised, Doc?" He added, turning to Dishi.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi had resumed
digging in his satchel, pulling out a surgical needle, a roll of nylon thread,
and a pair of forceps before acknowledging Rafael. "Well, an increased dose of
garlic would be good. and right now, I need a bowl of salt water or vinegar, and
a clean cloth to start re-stitching this"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael gave a wordless
nod, shooting Atemu and Kaiba a look that promised impending doom should they
give the doctor any trouble, before leaving to get what was asked. Before making
his way to the door, he approached a zoned out Varon who was innocently sitting
by Amelda's bedside. "Keep an eye on those two for me." He said, leaving before
the latter could respond.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu winced a little,
visualizing such an outcome.  It wasn't that he thought he was immune to such an
ailment, or even that it hadn't occurred to him.  He just got so caught up in
worrying about everyone else that he simply forgot about the consequences.  With
nothing else to occupy himself, he had no choice but to think about the risks. 
And he wasn't sure about how he could cope with one arm.  His archery ability
would be straight out the window for one thing, and multi tasking would be more
difficult.  "Okay, okay, I'll take it easy."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well, I'm sorry to
say this, Atemu-sama..." Dishi began, a little hesitant to continue before he
finally mustered up the courage. "But you have no choice but to do so." He
gently grasped Atemu's arm, just below the injury. "If you do not rest, this
could get worse. Consider the possibility of developing sepsis, or even
gangrene. And, as extreme as this sounds, you could lose this limb if the latter
would happen" He added, recalling one patient who developed gangrene from a
maltreated injury.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know.  And I'm
sorry for making you all worry."  Atemu replied.  "Everyone looks to me, and
that makes me responsible for them.  I just want to keep them safe.  I've never
been one to lead from the rear."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi mumbled a
soft 'thank you' before gently laying a hand around the injury. He undid the
bandages and took a careful look, biting his lip upon seeing the thread snapped
in various places, allowing blood to seep through. "This needs to be
re-stitched" He mumbled as he buried his free hand in his satchel. "Atemu-sama"
He added, sounding quite desperate. "You really need to be more careful. You
won't have a quick recovery if you...keep this up" He wanted to say something
along the lines of acting completely irrational. But he decided to play safe.
His self appointed assistant, however, had other plans.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "In other words,
quit ramming yourself into trouble." Rafael snapped, inspecting Atemu's wound
over the doctor's shoulder.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu moved
his hand out of the way, to allow Dishi to take a look and show his permission.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi
stopped the urge to click his tongue as he approached Atemu. "I hope you don't
mind.." He added as he made a move to hold Atemu's arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu
brought his right hand up over the bandage guiltily.  "I think it's been like
that a while now."  He commented.  He decided not to mention the boxes in the
garage, or being shoved by Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael
snorted as he watched Anzu leave before turning to face Kaiba and Atemu.
"Speaking of Atemu's options..." He made sure to keep his eyes glued to Atemu's
before continuing. "I don't think he'll have the option of getting up and moving
around whenever he wants as you put it, Kaiba." His gaze moved to the former
Pharaoh's arm. "He just burst his stitches, judging from the blood stain there."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Anzu
nodded, glanced quickly at Kaiba, and went to see if she could help someone
else.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Kaiba regarded Anzu silently, irritated by her presence.  He still didn't have
much time for the girl, but right now he was more annoyed at himself for not
noticing her sooner.  The whole situation was infuriating, and he was quickly
growing tired of it.  The first chance he had, he was making a break for it,
crutches or no crutches.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---
In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
"No, not really."  Atemu responded with a small shake of his head.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Anzu, who had been standing close by for a few minutes, silently listened to
Atemu and Kaiba before deciding to finally make her presence known. "Is there
anything I can get you Atemu?"  She asked.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> "That's easy for you to say."  Kaiba grumbled.  "You have the option of
getting up and moving around a bit when you want...  I can't without crutches. 
I need something to do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > "And I didn't?"  Atemu asked, raising an eyebrow.  "Kaiba, take it from me,
just listen to the doctor.  The grief for not doing so isn't worth it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > "But I have responsibilities."  Kaiba insisted.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > Atemu glanced down at his arm, then looked up smirking.  "I'm sitting in
here with a concussion for not taking it easy when I was told to.  Do you REALLY
want to follow my example and ignore their advice?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > "Possibly."  Kaiba shrugged.  "I don't know."  He cleared his throat. 
"But I don't have time to be like this.  There's so much to be done.  I'm
supposed to be taking care of things, so you can rest and recover."  He looked
pointedly at Atemu's bandaged arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > Atemu had removed his jacket, and was examining the bandage around
his arm, noting the blood soaking through in silence, before glancing up.  "I
noticed something was bothering you in the garage yesterday.  Is it the same
thing?"  He asked Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "It's...just a cough."  Kaiba forced out, though he was shocked
himself.  When the attack finally died down, he was left breathless, feeling
weak and shaky.  He dropped back down to sit on his bed, giving up on getting
his crutches from Rafael.  Instead, he focussed on trying to breath properly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Rafael looked taken aback the moment Kaiba coughed. From what he
was aware of, Kaiba suffered from physical injuries. Not a disease. Apparently,
he was not the only one who was shocked.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Kaiba-sama" Dishi said half heartedly, taking one small step
towards �Kaiba. �The man has a sprained ankle and just got himself a cough,
yet he still refused to back down. He's the very definition of pigheaded. Dishi
had to suppress a whine. "That sounds serious. You can't leave in that
state."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@yahoo groups.co.uk, "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Then give me back my god damn crutches!"  Kaiba practically
bellowed, now completely losing his temper.  He didn't like how Rafael had
advanced on him like that, but he wasn't about to back down.  He'd never backed
down from anything, and he had no intentions of starting now.  But his chest was
starting to burn and his eyes were watering, only adding to his anger.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Finally, he couldn't hold it in any longer, and turned away
with a painful sounding cough.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > Dishi looked like he was going to pass out upon seeing Kaiba
up on his feet. He gave Rafael a torn look. Part of him wanted to let Kaiba have
his way. But another part knew that if Kaiba continued to push it, he's never
going to get any better. Considering his recklessness, he could get worse. And
he didn't even want to think of the consequences should that happen. He shrunk
back, knowing that a lot of people were looking at them, and prayed that Kaiba
would sprout at least a tinge of common sense.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > Rafael, however, kept his ground. Seeing Kaiba up just made
him want to push him back down and tie him to the bed. He growled lowly as he
took a step towards Kaiba. �"Are you really that much of an idiot?" He almost
snarled. "Everyone with half a brain knows that you shouldn't even try to work
in that condition." He added, giving a pointed look at Kaiba's ankle. "But they
are afraid of the combined force of your wrath and stupidity." He glanced at
Dishi before resuming his gaze on Kaiba, his tone becoming stronger. "I may not
be an expert in medicine. But I know that if you continue being stupid, you'd
get worse."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared hatefully and stood up, forcing his ankle to
take his weight.  Rafael didn't phase him in the slightest.  It would take a lot
more than that to intimidate Seto Kaiba.  "I've heard enough.  As head of
security, I demand that you return those to me.  If not, I'll simply walk
without them, and then you'll be held responsible for any lasting damage.  Now
hand them over!"  Kaiba's tone sounded convincing enough, but his head was
spinning and the urge to cough was starting to make his eyes water.  Just what
the hell was going on?  Kaiba clenched his fists angrily.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael nodded at Atemu, giving him a small smile before
turning to Kaiba, his expression morphing from soft to rock hard and
intimidating, not at all affected by Kaiba's words. "Really?" He crossed his
arms, tucking the crutches behind him, and stood tall. "So who has the right to
take these away?" He added sarcastically, holding the crutches for Kaiba to see.
�"Then again, you have no right to walk around with that injury, so we're on a
stalemate"�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Shannon"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared up at Rafael.  "Give those back right
now, or you'll be sorry."  He said in a warning tone.  He pointed at the
crutches.  "You have no right to take them."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu shifted on the bed again, to sit with his back
to the headboard, hiding a wince at the strain on his arm.  "Better?"  He asked,
looking at Rafael.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael quirked a brow. Judging from the look on
Dishi's face, he didn't want Kaiba to get up just yet. With a slight sigh, he
took the crutches away from Kaiba's reach. "You need to rest." He said with
finality. From the corner of his eye, he could see Dishi mouthing a thank you.
"And that goes for you as well..." He added, looking at Atemu.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Shannon" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think we'd have heard about it by now." 
Kaiba muttered, forcing himself to sit up.  Swinging his legs over the side of
the bed, he reached for his crutches, which had been placed nearby.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > If something had hit the car like Atemu said,
then there was probably damage.  That meant more work for Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Ummm..."  Atemu glanced over at Kaiba, then
around the number of people who had been hurt.  "All things considered?  Yeah. 
Yeah , I'm alright.  Things could have gone a lot better if I'd had the
foresight to prepare for something like this.  Nobody died though.  Right?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

"Were you able to get a look at them?"  Yugi asked hopefully.

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@...> wrote:
>
> Rafael blew out a small sigh before cutting to the chase. "I saw someone
inside the storage. Must be a thief since he ran away when I called his
attention."
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> >
> > "To make sure a certain two people keep resting, right?"  Yugi asked,
stepping out the door.  "What's happened?"
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > >
> > > Having taken the lead, Rafael opened the door and took a step outside
 before turning to Yugi. "This conversation is best done outside." He stated
bluntly as he held onto the door from the outside. 
> > >
> >
>

"Unfortunately no..." Rafael grumbled, frowning as he looked away. "It was far
too dark and he was gone before I could see clearly."

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@...>
wrote:
>
> "Were you able to get a look at them?"  Yugi asked hopefully.
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> >
> > Rafael blew out a small sigh before cutting to the chase. "I saw someone
inside the storage. Must be a thief since he ran away when I called his
attention."
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > >
> > > "To make sure a certain two people keep resting, right?"  Yugi asked,
stepping out the door.  "What's happened?"
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > Having taken the lead, Rafael opened the door and took a step outside
 before turning to Yugi. "This conversation is best done outside." He stated
bluntly as he held onto the door from the outside. 
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

"Well, I guess that confirms that there is a thief at the very least.  We should
probably post some security there."  Yugi mused.  "But we can't mention it in
front of Atemu or Kaiba, because they'll just try to do something about it.  And
they're really in no condition for that."

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@...> wrote:
>
> "Unfortunately no..." Rafael grumbled, frowning as he looked away. "It was far
too dark and he was gone before I could see clearly."
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> >
> > "Were you able to get a look at them?"  Yugi asked hopefully.
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > >
> > > Rafael blew out a small sigh before cutting to the chase. "I saw someone
inside the storage. Must be a thief since he ran away when I called his
attention."
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "To make sure a certain two people keep resting, right?"  Yugi asked,
stepping out the door.  "What's happened?"
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > Having taken the lead, Rafael opened the door and took a step outside
 before turning to Yugi. "This conversation is best done outside." He stated
bluntly as he held onto the door from the outside. 
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

"Of...course..." Dishi said a little worriedly. After cleaning the wound with
the cloth, he worked on removing the old thread. A shadow loomed over from
behind. He stopped and turned towards the new arrival.

"Dunno 'ow long until those guys com' back." Varon said as he crouched down in
level with the doctor. "Am 'ere to help, by Raf's orders..." He said, the last
part more to himself.

"Well I may need some help in.....securing Atemu-sama" Dishi said, faltering a
bit as he gave Atemu an apologetic look. "In case...you know..."

Varon grinned as he gave a small, mock salute. "I know. Stitchin's a pain fer
both parties."


--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@...>
wrote:
>
> "Quit fretting and get on with it already.  Oh, and uh, any swearing and
ranting is not directed at you, so don't worry about it and please don't take
offence."  Atemu responded.
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> >
> > "I have heard that he created Duel Monsters, and you being the one who beat
him. But that was all from the news." Dishi stated. "He kept pushing me away
whenever I tried to help him move on. It got to the point that he outright
refused to see me." Dishi added sadly. "We drifted apart because of that. We
never had much contact until he, Siegfried-San, and the others found me. And
that was after the pandemic struck." He vigorously shook the salt water bottle
before pouring a drop-sized amount on his finger. The scrunched up look he wore
after tasting the sample indicated that the salt water was still potent. After
re-sterilizing his hands, he poured a generous amount of salt water on the cloth
Rafael brought in. "Um... Try not to move too much." He stated, feeling
sympathetic as he brought the cloth close to Atemu's injury. 
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > >
> > > "Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before glancing over to Pegasus. 
"He IS okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how we met him.  He was trying
to collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a result."
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little shocked that Atemu knew that
much. "But he seems fine now." He added He turned to look over his shoulder,
smiling slightly as he watched Pegasus having an almost bubbly chat with Varon.
"But.... After his little.... escapade, I still find it a bit dodgy to talk to
him about.... magic and the like." Noting that Rafael and Yugi might take their
time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized his hands and the tools he needed
in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is going to sting.... But I'm sure you
already know that." He added sheepishly, taking out a bottle of salt water he
suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit off?"  Atemu guessed.
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that Rafael and
Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to prevent the
habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous. Despite his tense
outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach. He was in his
office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his office, but
not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a broom tucked
by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were converging, he
saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to explain. 
> > > > > >
> > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the
Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he
was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a
human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > >
> > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a panicked
induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw.... some
things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus-san, yes. But after his
wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became
so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he trailed off, not
knowing how he should continue. 
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that Rafael and
Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to prevent the
habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous. Despite his tense
outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach. He was in his
office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his office, but
not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a broom tucked
by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were converging, he
saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to explain. 
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the
Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he
was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a
human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a panicked
induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw.... some
things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus, yes. But after his wife
died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became so
desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he fell silent, not sure
how he should continue.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at Atemu.  "Behave
yourself."  Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning Rafael to follow him.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't care if you think I'm
delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and he's not nearly so polite
about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to accept when I can call out
the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the planet, can call out the
Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying, Atemu-sama." Dishi stated
quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away, biting his lip as he tried to
figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple and unoffending way. Bluntly
stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional would surely get him in a lot of
trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to approach the situation. 
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's voice cut in. Dishi
visibly relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the things he had
asked. There was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears poking out of his
coat pocket, much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice sounded calm. But the
doctor noted the tense and rather apprehensive look on his face. Perhaps he
overheard their conversation. 
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm tone as he turned to the
addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a word with you, alone?" 
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't have to believe me. 
But tell me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying to you?"  Atemu
asked.  "Tell you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the Millennium Items. 
You trust him, don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium Items, and my connection
to them.  See what you can find out."
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not know what to say. But he
could honestly say that he had heard worse.... From patients with schizophrenia.
But he was not about to say that out loud. Other than that claim, Atemu showed
no other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia. Or perhaps he was yet to see
it. But then again, he also believed that science could not explain everything.
"Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and hard to believe." 
Yugi commented.
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was something Dishi had not
expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely confused.  "You're
supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A part time experience
in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his cool when faced with
highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?"  Yugi asked Atemu
quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why not.  I don't see any
reason not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.  "And I think we owe
him the truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his agreement.  Atemu
turned back to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if you want.  I won't
hold it against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand years ago, in
Egypt.  My spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to be sent home,
but we lost the means."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost alike." Dishi said in
disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's brother.  Not
biologically I mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure him that he
didn't mean it in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt." Dishi recalled. "I
sense an interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell you where he got his
inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because they're very closely
related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using Yugi's name."  Atemu
glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people were within earshot. 
"Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite something." Dishi said,
wondering whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he shook it off. Waving his
hand, he added. "You have your reasons and I respect that." He smiled. "Our
acquaintance is still new. But I can say that you seem to be decent people.
Helping each other to the point of taking yourselves for granted.." He glanced
at Atemu and Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So whatever reason it is, I'm
sure it is understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times."  Atemu commented fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu."  Yugi answered.  "The
circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe.  But Atemu won that
title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad, like a case of fraud
or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous gulp, Dishi quickly
hid the Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence was irking the
scariest man he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was irritate him
further. "Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh when he saw
it being played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or was that you,
Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not up to date when
it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is either one of
you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding the king of
games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come on.  Settle down.  Your
head's not gonna feel any better getting in another fight with Kaiba-kun."  Yugi
reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't help it."  Atemu
responded defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave Atemu a sour look over
his shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned, sarcasm dripping from
his voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look, Kaiba.  It's your
best friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi, who had been watching
the exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I could use some assistance
in sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing to the surgical tools he
had placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for Rafael-San to return,
though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He stated, giving Yugi
and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a way of staying in
people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reached into his satchel,
pulling out a fist sized lump of brown cotton with green appendages.  "I have to
be honest. Pegasus-San and I may have been friends but this is the only thing I
know about his game." He held the lump for Yugi and Atemu to see. "This belonged
to my son. He would carry this thing  wherever he would go,  absolutely refusing
to leave it, and wailing if I accidentally forgot to bring it. I think he calls
it Furrybow or..Something like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ----------
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > The brown lump is a Kuriboh
stuffed toy. :)
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not normally a restless
sleeper, no.  Only when something disturbs me.  Like sensing that bear for
example.  I'll wait until you're done if you'd prefer.  To make sure I don't
move about while you're working."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Do you need to be tied down
to rest?"  Yugi asked as he approached the bed.  He'd been with a party checking
to make sure they hadn't missed anyone, and had only just returned.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "No, I don't."  Atemu
responded.  "I've already quit, honest.  No more trying to help until I'm
better."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Better late than never." 
Yugi remarked, crossing his arms.  "D'you have any idea how much you've made
people worry about you?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well considering this is
your thirty seventh lecture, yes, I believe I do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, you're not funny,
and I'm not kidding around here.  Do you WANT it to get worse?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course I don't."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Then follow the doctor's
orders!  How many more times?!"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Like I said, I'm going to
behave now.  And I'm sorry I made you worry."  Atemu replied.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed.  "Look, I know
it's just in your nature to watch out for everyone.  But being reckless is
counter productive.  You can't help anyone when you put yourself out of
commission."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know..."  Atemu groaned,
fed up with lecture.  "I already said I'd behave."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well you said that every
other time, so forgive me for not buying it."  Yugi responded.  "You were
supposed to be resting, and getting knocked out trying to deal with a bear
doesn't count."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Seriously, Yugi.  I'm
honestly just wanting to sleep.  My head hurts, and I'm tired, and I gotta say
I'm finding it increasingly difficult to focus on what you're saying."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi's gaze softened.  "You
had me worried sick."  He finished.  "AGAIN."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "It won't happen again." 
Atemu replied.  "Duellist's honour."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed.  "Alright. 
I'll hold you to that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "You won't be disappointed."
Atemu assured him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good."  Yugi looked at
Dishi.  "Is there anything I can help you with?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course you can,
Atemu-sama" Dishi said eagerly, happy that Atemu was willing to cooperate. "But
I do hope you are not the fidgety type when asleep though. You are not fidgety
when asleep, right?" He added hopefully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu, hunched down a
little in guilt, glanced over at Kaiba sheepishly, before facing Dishi again. 
"I'm kinda tired by the way, and I have a bit of a headache.  Am I allowed to
try sleep that off?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "And I'll be around to
make sure you do." Rafael said sternly, his face scrunching up into a scowl as
the thought of amputation crossed his mind. "Anything else that would be
advised, Doc?" He added, turning to Dishi.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi had resumed
digging in his satchel, pulling out a surgical needle, a roll of nylon thread,
and a pair of forceps before acknowledging Rafael. "Well, an increased dose of
garlic would be good. and right now, I need a bowl of salt water or vinegar, and
a clean cloth to start re-stitching this"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael gave a wordless
nod, shooting Atemu and Kaiba a look that promised impending doom should they
give the doctor any trouble, before leaving to get what was asked. Before making
his way to the door, he approached a zoned out Varon who was innocently sitting
by Amelda's bedside. "Keep an eye on those two for me." He said, leaving before
the latter could respond.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu winced a
little, visualizing such an outcome.  It wasn't that he thought he was immune to
such an ailment, or even that it hadn't occurred to him.  He just got so caught
up in worrying about everyone else that he simply forgot about the consequences.
With nothing else to occupy himself, he had no choice but to think about the
risks.  And he wasn't sure about how he could cope with one arm.  His archery
ability would be straight out the window for one thing, and multi tasking would
be more difficult.  "Okay, okay, I'll take it easy."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well, I'm sorry
to say this, Atemu-sama..." Dishi began, a little hesitant to continue before he
finally mustered up the courage. "But you have no choice but to do so." He
gently grasped Atemu's arm, just below the injury. "If you do not rest, this
could get worse. Consider the possibility of developing sepsis, or even
gangrene. And, as extreme as this sounds, you could lose this limb if the latter
would happen" He added, recalling one patient who developed gangrene from a
maltreated injury.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know.  And
I'm sorry for making you all worry."  Atemu replied.  "Everyone looks to me, and
that makes me responsible for them.  I just want to keep them safe.  I've never
been one to lead from the rear."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi mumbled
a soft 'thank you' before gently laying a hand around the injury. He undid the
bandages and took a careful look, biting his lip upon seeing the thread snapped
in various places, allowing blood to seep through. "This needs to be
re-stitched" He mumbled as he buried his free hand in his satchel. "Atemu-sama"
He added, sounding quite desperate. "You really need to be more careful. You
won't have a quick recovery if you...keep this up" He wanted to say something
along the lines of acting completely irrational. But he decided to play safe.
His self appointed assistant, however, had other plans.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "In other
words, quit ramming yourself into trouble." Rafael snapped, inspecting Atemu's
wound over the doctor's shoulder.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu moved
his hand out of the way, to allow Dishi to take a look and show his permission.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi
stopped the urge to click his tongue as he approached Atemu. "I hope you don't
mind.." He added as he made a move to hold Atemu's arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu
brought his right hand up over the bandage guiltily.  "I think it's been like
that a while now."  He commented.  He decided not to mention the boxes in the
garage, or being shoved by Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael
snorted as he watched Anzu leave before turning to face Kaiba and Atemu.
"Speaking of Atemu's options..." He made sure to keep his eyes glued to Atemu's
before continuing. "I don't think he'll have the option of getting up and moving
around whenever he wants as you put it, Kaiba." His gaze moved to the former
Pharaoh's arm. "He just burst his stitches, judging from the blood stain there."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Anzu
nodded, glanced quickly at Kaiba, and went to see if she could help someone
else.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---
In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Kaiba regarded Anzu silently, irritated by her presence.  He still didn't have
much time for the girl, but right now he was more annoyed at himself for not
noticing her sooner.  The whole situation was infuriating, and he was quickly
growing tired of it.  The first chance he had, he was making a break for it,
crutches or no crutches.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
"No, not really."  Atemu responded with a small shake of his head.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> Anzu, who had been standing close by for a few minutes, silently listened to
Atemu and Kaiba before deciding to finally make her presence known. "Is there
anything I can get you Atemu?"  She asked.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > "That's easy for you to say."  Kaiba grumbled.  "You have the option of
getting up and moving around a bit when you want...  I can't without crutches. 
I need something to do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > "And I didn't?"  Atemu asked, raising an eyebrow.  "Kaiba, take it from
me, just listen to the doctor.  The grief for not doing so isn't worth it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > "But I have responsibilities."  Kaiba insisted.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > Atemu glanced down at his arm, then looked up smirking.  "I'm sitting
in here with a concussion for not taking it easy when I was told to.  Do you
REALLY want to follow my example and ignore their advice?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > "Possibly."  Kaiba shrugged.  "I don't know."  He cleared his
throat.  "But I don't have time to be like this.  There's so much to be done. 
I'm supposed to be taking care of things, so you can rest and recover."  He
looked pointedly at Atemu's bandaged arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Atemu had removed his jacket, and was examining the bandage around
his arm, noting the blood soaking through in silence, before glancing up.  "I
noticed something was bothering you in the garage yesterday.  Is it the same
thing?"  He asked Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "It's...just a cough."  Kaiba forced out, though he was shocked
himself.  When the attack finally died down, he was left breathless, feeling
weak and shaky.  He dropped back down to sit on his bed, giving up on getting
his crutches from Rafael.  Instead, he focussed on trying to breath properly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Rafael looked taken aback the moment Kaiba coughed. From what
he was aware of, Kaiba suffered from physical injuries. Not a disease.
Apparently, he was not the only one who was shocked.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Kaiba-sama" Dishi said half heartedly, taking one small step
towards �Kaiba. �The man has a sprained ankle and just got himself a cough,
yet he still refused to back down. He's the very definition of pigheaded. Dishi
had to suppress a whine. "That sounds serious. You can't leave in that
state."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@yahoo groups.co.uk, "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Then give me back my god damn crutches!"  Kaiba practically
bellowed, now completely losing his temper.  He didn't like how Rafael had
advanced on him like that, but he wasn't about to back down.  He'd never backed
down from anything, and he had no intentions of starting now.  But his chest was
starting to burn and his eyes were watering, only adding to his anger.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > Finally, he couldn't hold it in any longer, and turned away
with a painful sounding cough.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > Dishi looked like he was going to pass out upon seeing
Kaiba up on his feet. He gave Rafael a torn look. Part of him wanted to let
Kaiba have his way. But another part knew that if Kaiba continued to push it,
he's never going to get any better. Considering his recklessness, he could get
worse. And he didn't even want to think of the consequences should that happen.
He shrunk back, knowing that a lot of people were looking at them, and prayed
that Kaiba would sprout at least a tinge of common sense.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > Rafael, however, kept his ground. Seeing Kaiba up just
made him want to push him back down and tie him to the bed. He growled lowly as
he took a step towards Kaiba. �"Are you really that much of an idiot?" He
almost snarled. "Everyone with half a brain knows that you shouldn't even try to
work in that condition." He added, giving a pointed look at Kaiba's ankle. "But
they are afraid of the combined force of your wrath and stupidity." He glanced
at Dishi before resuming his gaze on Kaiba, his tone becoming stronger. "I may
not be an expert in medicine. But I know that if you continue being stupid,
you'd get worse."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared hatefully and stood up, forcing his ankle
to take his weight.  Rafael didn't phase him in the slightest.  It would take a
lot more than that to intimidate Seto Kaiba.  "I've heard enough.  As head of
security, I demand that you return those to me.  If not, I'll simply walk
without them, and then you'll be held responsible for any lasting damage.  Now
hand them over!"  Kaiba's tone sounded convincing enough, but his head was
spinning and the urge to cough was starting to make his eyes water.  Just what
the hell was going on?  Kaiba clenched his fists angrily.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael nodded at Atemu, giving him a small smile
before turning to Kaiba, his expression morphing from soft to rock hard and
intimidating, not at all affected by Kaiba's words. "Really?" He crossed his
arms, tucking the crutches behind him, and stood tall. "So who has the right to
take these away?" He added sarcastically, holding the crutches for Kaiba to see.
�"Then again, you have no right to walk around with that injury, so we're on a
stalemate"�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Shannon"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared up at Rafael.  "Give those back right
now, or you'll be sorry."  He said in a warning tone.  He pointed at the
crutches.  "You have no right to take them."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu shifted on the bed again, to sit with his
back to the headboard, hiding a wince at the strain on his arm.  "Better?"  He
asked, looking at Rafael.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael quirked a brow. Judging from the look on
Dishi's face, he didn't want Kaiba to get up just yet. With a slight sigh, he
took the crutches away from Kaiba's reach. "You need to rest." He said with
finality. From the corner of his eye, he could see Dishi mouthing a thank you.
"And that goes for you as well..." He added, looking at Atemu.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Shannon" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think we'd have heard about it by now." 
Kaiba muttered, forcing himself to sit up.  Swinging his legs over the side of
the bed, he reached for his crutches, which had been placed nearby.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > If something had hit the car like Atemu said,
then there was probably damage.  That meant more work for Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Ummm..."  Atemu glanced over at Kaiba, then
around the number of people who had been hurt.  "All things considered?  Yeah. 
Yeah , I'm alright.  Things could have gone a lot better if I'd had the
foresight to prepare for something like this.  Nobody died though.  Right?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
"
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

Rafael nodded. Glancing back at the door, he said "We should probably get back.
Dishi might need some help."

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@...>
wrote:
>
> "Well, I guess that confirms that there is a thief at the very least.  We
should probably post some security there."  Yugi mused.  "But we can't mention
it in front of Atemu or Kaiba, because they'll just try to do something about
it.  And they're really in no condition for that."
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> >
> > "Unfortunately no..." Rafael grumbled, frowning as he looked away. "It was
far too dark and he was gone before I could see clearly."
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > >
> > > "Were you able to get a look at them?"  Yugi asked hopefully.
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > Rafael blew out a small sigh before cutting to the chase. "I saw someone
inside the storage. Must be a thief since he ran away when I called his
attention."
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "To make sure a certain two people keep resting, right?"  Yugi asked,
stepping out the door.  "What's happened?"
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Having taken the lead, Rafael opened the door and took a step
outside  before turning to Yugi. "This conversation is best done outside." He
stated bluntly as he held onto the door from the outside. 
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

"Do it already."  Atemu prompted.  "I feel like crap and I wanna sleep it off."

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@...> wrote:
>
> "Of...course..." Dishi said a little worriedly. After cleaning the wound with
the cloth, he worked on removing the old thread. A shadow loomed over from
behind. He stopped and turned towards the new arrival.
>
> "Dunno 'ow long until those guys com' back." Varon said as he crouched down in
level with the doctor. "Am 'ere to help, by Raf's orders..." He said, the last
part more to himself.
>
> "Well I may need some help in.....securing Atemu-sama" Dishi said, faltering a
bit as he gave Atemu an apologetic look. "In case...you know..."
>
> Varon grinned as he gave a small, mock salute. "I know. Stitchin's a pain fer
both parties."
>
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> >
> > "Quit fretting and get on with it already.  Oh, and uh, any swearing and
ranting is not directed at you, so don't worry about it and please don't take
offence."  Atemu responded.
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > >
> > > "I have heard that he created Duel Monsters, and you being the one who
beat him. But that was all from the news." Dishi stated. "He kept pushing me
away whenever I tried to help him move on. It got to the point that he outright
refused to see me." Dishi added sadly. "We drifted apart because of that. We
never had much contact until he, Siegfried-San, and the others found me. And
that was after the pandemic struck." He vigorously shook the salt water bottle
before pouring a drop-sized amount on his finger. The scrunched up look he wore
after tasting the sample indicated that the salt water was still potent. After
re-sterilizing his hands, he poured a generous amount of salt water on the cloth
Rafael brought in. "Um... Try not to move too much." He stated, feeling
sympathetic as he brought the cloth close to Atemu's injury. 
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before glancing over to Pegasus. 
"He IS okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how we met him.  He was trying
to collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a result."
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little shocked that Atemu knew
that much. "But he seems fine now." He added He turned to look over his
shoulder, smiling slightly as he watched Pegasus having an almost bubbly chat
with Varon. "But.... After his little.... escapade, I still find it a bit dodgy
to talk to him about.... magic and the like." Noting that Rafael and Yugi might
take their time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized his hands and the tools
he needed in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is going to sting.... But I'm
sure you already know that." He added sheepishly, taking out a bottle of salt
water he suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit off?"  Atemu
guessed.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that Rafael and
Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to prevent the
habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous. Despite his tense
outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach. He was in his
office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his office, but
not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a broom tucked
by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were converging, he
saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to explain. 
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the
Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he
was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a
human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a panicked
induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw.... some
things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus-san, yes. But after his
wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became
so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he trailed off, not
knowing how he should continue. 
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that Rafael
and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to prevent
the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous. Despite his
tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach. He was in
his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his office,
but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a broom
tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the
Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he
was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a
human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a
panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw....
some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus, yes. But after his wife
died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became so
desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he fell silent, not sure
how he should continue.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at Atemu.  "Behave
yourself."  Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning Rafael to follow him.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't care if you think I'm
delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and he's not nearly so polite
about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to accept when I can call out
the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the planet, can call out the
Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying, Atemu-sama." Dishi stated
quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away, biting his lip as he tried to
figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple and unoffending way. Bluntly
stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional would surely get him in a lot of
trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to approach the situation. 
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's voice cut in. Dishi
visibly relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the things he had
asked. There was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears poking out of his
coat pocket, much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice sounded calm. But the
doctor noted the tense and rather apprehensive look on his face. Perhaps he
overheard their conversation. 
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm tone as he turned to
the addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a word with you,
alone?" 
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't have to believe me. 
But tell me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying to you?"  Atemu
asked.  "Tell you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the Millennium Items. 
You trust him, don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium Items, and my connection
to them.  See what you can find out."
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not know what to say. But
he could honestly say that he had heard worse.... From patients with
schizophrenia. But he was not about to say that out loud. Other than that claim,
Atemu showed no other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia. Or perhaps he was
yet to see it. But then again, he also believed that science could not explain
everything. "Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and hard to believe." 
Yugi commented.
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was something Dishi had not
expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely confused.  "You're
supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A part time experience
in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his cool when faced with
highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?"  Yugi asked Atemu
quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why not.  I don't see any
reason not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.  "And I think we owe
him the truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his agreement.  Atemu
turned back to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if you want.  I won't
hold it against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand years ago, in
Egypt.  My spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to be sent home,
but we lost the means."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost alike." Dishi said in
disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's brother.  Not
biologically I mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure him that he
didn't mean it in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt." Dishi recalled. "I
sense an interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell you where he got
his inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because they're very closely
related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using Yugi's name."  Atemu
glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people were within earshot. 
"Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite something." Dishi said,
wondering whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he shook it off. Waving his
hand, he added. "You have your reasons and I respect that." He smiled. "Our
acquaintance is still new. But I can say that you seem to be decent people.
Helping each other to the point of taking yourselves for granted.." He glanced
at Atemu and Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So whatever reason it is, I'm
sure it is understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times."  Atemu commented fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu."  Yugi answered.  "The
circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe.  But Atemu won that
title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad, like a case of fraud
or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous gulp, Dishi quickly
hid the Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence was irking the
scariest man he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was irritate him
further. "Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh when he saw
it being played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or was that you,
Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not up to date when
it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is either one of
you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding the king of
games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come on.  Settle down. 
Your head's not gonna feel any better getting in another fight with Kaiba-kun." 
Yugi reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't help it."  Atemu
responded defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave Atemu a sour look
over his shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned, sarcasm dripping
from his voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look, Kaiba.  It's your
best friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi, who had been watching
the exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I could use some assistance
in sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing to the surgical tools he
had placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for Rafael-San to return,
though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He stated, giving Yugi
and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a way of staying in
people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reached into his satchel,
pulling out a fist sized lump of brown cotton with green appendages.  "I have to
be honest. Pegasus-San and I may have been friends but this is the only thing I
know about his game." He held the lump for Yugi and Atemu to see. "This belonged
to my son. He would carry this thing  wherever he would go,  absolutely refusing
to leave it, and wailing if I accidentally forgot to bring it. I think he calls
it Furrybow or..Something like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ----------
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > The brown lump is a Kuriboh
stuffed toy. :)
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not normally a
restless sleeper, no.  Only when something disturbs me.  Like sensing that bear
for example.  I'll wait until you're done if you'd prefer.  To make sure I don't
move about while you're working."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Do you need to be tied
down to rest?"  Yugi asked as he approached the bed.  He'd been with a party
checking to make sure they hadn't missed anyone, and had only just returned.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "No, I don't."  Atemu
responded.  "I've already quit, honest.  No more trying to help until I'm
better."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Better late than never." 
Yugi remarked, crossing his arms.  "D'you have any idea how much you've made
people worry about you?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well considering this is
your thirty seventh lecture, yes, I believe I do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, you're not funny,
and I'm not kidding around here.  Do you WANT it to get worse?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course I don't."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Then follow the doctor's
orders!  How many more times?!"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Like I said, I'm going to
behave now.  And I'm sorry I made you worry."  Atemu replied.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed.  "Look, I
know it's just in your nature to watch out for everyone.  But being reckless is
counter productive.  You can't help anyone when you put yourself out of
commission."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know..."  Atemu
groaned, fed up with lecture.  "I already said I'd behave."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well you said that every
other time, so forgive me for not buying it."  Yugi responded.  "You were
supposed to be resting, and getting knocked out trying to deal with a bear
doesn't count."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Seriously, Yugi.  I'm
honestly just wanting to sleep.  My head hurts, and I'm tired, and I gotta say
I'm finding it increasingly difficult to focus on what you're saying."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi's gaze softened. 
"You had me worried sick."  He finished.  "AGAIN."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "It won't happen again." 
Atemu replied.  "Duellist's honour."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed.  "Alright. 
I'll hold you to that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "You won't be
disappointed."  Atemu assured him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good."  Yugi looked at
Dishi.  "Is there anything I can help you with?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course you can,
Atemu-sama" Dishi said eagerly, happy that Atemu was willing to cooperate. "But
I do hope you are not the fidgety type when asleep though. You are not fidgety
when asleep, right?" He added hopefully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu, hunched down a
little in guilt, glanced over at Kaiba sheepishly, before facing Dishi again. 
"I'm kinda tired by the way, and I have a bit of a headache.  Am I allowed to
try sleep that off?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "And I'll be around
to make sure you do." Rafael said sternly, his face scrunching up into a scowl
as the thought of amputation crossed his mind. "Anything else that would be
advised, Doc?" He added, turning to Dishi.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi had resumed
digging in his satchel, pulling out a surgical needle, a roll of nylon thread,
and a pair of forceps before acknowledging Rafael. "Well, an increased dose of
garlic would be good. and right now, I need a bowl of salt water or vinegar, and
a clean cloth to start re-stitching this"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael gave a
wordless nod, shooting Atemu and Kaiba a look that promised impending doom
should they give the doctor any trouble, before leaving to get what was asked.
Before making his way to the door, he approached a zoned out Varon who was
innocently sitting by Amelda's bedside. "Keep an eye on those two for me." He
said, leaving before the latter could respond.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu winced a
little, visualizing such an outcome.  It wasn't that he thought he was immune to
such an ailment, or even that it hadn't occurred to him.  He just got so caught
up in worrying about everyone else that he simply forgot about the consequences.
With nothing else to occupy himself, he had no choice but to think about the
risks.  And he wasn't sure about how he could cope with one arm.  His archery
ability would be straight out the window for one thing, and multi tasking would
be more difficult.  "Okay, okay, I'll take it easy."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well, I'm sorry
to say this, Atemu-sama..." Dishi began, a little hesitant to continue before he
finally mustered up the courage. "But you have no choice but to do so." He
gently grasped Atemu's arm, just below the injury. "If you do not rest, this
could get worse. Consider the possibility of developing sepsis, or even
gangrene. And, as extreme as this sounds, you could lose this limb if the latter
would happen" He added, recalling one patient who developed gangrene from a
maltreated injury.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know.  And
I'm sorry for making you all worry."  Atemu replied.  "Everyone looks to me, and
that makes me responsible for them.  I just want to keep them safe.  I've never
been one to lead from the rear."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi
mumbled a soft 'thank you' before gently laying a hand around the injury. He
undid the bandages and took a careful look, biting his lip upon seeing the
thread snapped in various places, allowing blood to seep through. "This needs to
be re-stitched" He mumbled as he buried his free hand in his satchel.
"Atemu-sama" He added, sounding quite desperate. "You really need to be more
careful. You won't have a quick recovery if you...keep this up" He wanted to say
something along the lines of acting completely irrational. But he decided to
play safe. His self appointed assistant, however, had other plans.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "In other
words, quit ramming yourself into trouble." Rafael snapped, inspecting Atemu's
wound over the doctor's shoulder.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu
moved his hand out of the way, to allow Dishi to take a look and show his
permission.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi
stopped the urge to click his tongue as he approached Atemu. "I hope you don't
mind.." He added as he made a move to hold Atemu's arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu
brought his right hand up over the bandage guiltily.  "I think it's been like
that a while now."  He commented.  He decided not to mention the boxes in the
garage, or being shoved by Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Rafael snorted as he watched Anzu leave before turning to face Kaiba and Atemu.
"Speaking of Atemu's options..." He made sure to keep his eyes glued to Atemu's
before continuing. "I don't think he'll have the option of getting up and moving
around whenever he wants as you put it, Kaiba." His gaze moved to the former
Pharaoh's arm. "He just burst his stitches, judging from the blood stain there."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---
In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Anzu nodded, glanced quickly at Kaiba, and went to see if she could help someone
else.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Kaiba regarded Anzu silently, irritated by her presence.  He still didn't have
much time for the girl, but right now he was more annoyed at himself for not
noticing her sooner.  The whole situation was infuriating, and he was quickly
growing tired of it.  The first chance he had, he was making a break for it,
crutches or no crutches.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> "No, not really."  Atemu responded with a small shake of his head.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > Anzu, who had been standing close by for a few minutes, silently listened to
Atemu and Kaiba before deciding to finally make her presence known. "Is there
anything I can get you Atemu?"  She asked.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > "That's easy for you to say."  Kaiba grumbled.  "You have the option of
getting up and moving around a bit when you want...  I can't without crutches. 
I need something to do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > "And I didn't?"  Atemu asked, raising an eyebrow.  "Kaiba, take it from
me, just listen to the doctor.  The grief for not doing so isn't worth it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > "But I have responsibilities."  Kaiba insisted.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > Atemu glanced down at his arm, then looked up smirking.  "I'm
sitting in here with a concussion for not taking it easy when I was told to.  Do
you REALLY want to follow my example and ignore their advice?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Possibly."  Kaiba shrugged.  "I don't know."  He cleared his
throat.  "But I don't have time to be like this.  There's so much to be done. 
I'm supposed to be taking care of things, so you can rest and recover."  He
looked pointedly at Atemu's bandaged arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Atemu had removed his jacket, and was examining the bandage
around his arm, noting the blood soaking through in silence, before glancing up.
"I noticed something was bothering you in the garage yesterday.  Is it the same
thing?"  He asked Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "It's...just a cough."  Kaiba forced out, though he was
shocked himself.  When the attack finally died down, he was left breathless,
feeling weak and shaky.  He dropped back down to sit on his bed, giving up on
getting his crutches from Rafael.  Instead, he focussed on trying to breath
properly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > Rafael looked taken aback the moment Kaiba coughed. From
what he was aware of, Kaiba suffered from physical injuries. Not a disease.
Apparently, he was not the only one who was shocked.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Kaiba-sama" Dishi said half heartedly, taking one small
step towards �Kaiba. �The man has a sprained ankle and just got himself a
cough, yet he still refused to back down. He's the very definition of pigheaded.
Dishi had to suppress a whine. "That sounds serious. You can't leave in that
state."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@yahoo groups.co.uk, "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Then give me back my god damn crutches!"  Kaiba
practically bellowed, now completely losing his temper.  He didn't like how
Rafael had advanced on him like that, but he wasn't about to back down.  He'd
never backed down from anything, and he had no intentions of starting now.  But
his chest was starting to burn and his eyes were watering, only adding to his
anger.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > Finally, he couldn't hold it in any longer, and turned
away with a painful sounding cough.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi looked like he was going to pass out upon seeing
Kaiba up on his feet. He gave Rafael a torn look. Part of him wanted to let
Kaiba have his way. But another part knew that if Kaiba continued to push it,
he's never going to get any better. Considering his recklessness, he could get
worse. And he didn't even want to think of the consequences should that happen.
He shrunk back, knowing that a lot of people were looking at them, and prayed
that Kaiba would sprout at least a tinge of common sense.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael, however, kept his ground. Seeing Kaiba up just
made him want to push him back down and tie him to the bed. He growled lowly as
he took a step towards Kaiba. �"Are you really that much of an idiot?" He
almost snarled. "Everyone with half a brain knows that you shouldn't even try to
work in that condition." He added, giving a pointed look at Kaiba's ankle. "But
they are afraid of the combined force of your wrath and stupidity." He glanced
at Dishi before resuming his gaze on Kaiba, his tone becoming stronger. "I may
not be an expert in medicine. But I know that if you continue being stupid,
you'd get worse."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared hatefully and stood up, forcing his ankle
to take his weight.  Rafael didn't phase him in the slightest.  It would take a
lot more than that to intimidate Seto Kaiba.  "I've heard enough.  As head of
security, I demand that you return those to me.  If not, I'll simply walk
without them, and then you'll be held responsible for any lasting damage.  Now
hand them over!"  Kaiba's tone sounded convincing enough, but his head was
spinning and the urge to cough was starting to make his eyes water.  Just what
the hell was going on?  Kaiba clenched his fists angrily.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael nodded at Atemu, giving him a small smile
before turning to Kaiba, his expression morphing from soft to rock hard and
intimidating, not at all affected by Kaiba's words. "Really?" He crossed his
arms, tucking the crutches behind him, and stood tall. "So who has the right to
take these away?" He added sarcastically, holding the crutches for Kaiba to see.
�"Then again, you have no right to walk around with that injury, so we're on a
stalemate"�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Shannon"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared up at Rafael.  "Give those back right
now, or you'll be sorry."  He said in a warning tone.  He pointed at the
crutches.  "You have no right to take them."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu shifted on the bed again, to sit with his
back to the headboard, hiding a wince at the strain on his arm.  "Better?"  He
asked, looking at Rafael.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael quirked a brow. Judging from the look
on Dishi's face, he didn't want Kaiba to get up just yet. With a slight sigh, he
took the crutches away from Kaiba's reach. "You need to rest." He said with
finality. From the corner of his eye, he could see Dishi mouthing a thank you.
"And that goes for you as well..." He added, looking at Atemu.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Shannon" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think we'd have heard about it by now." 
Kaiba muttered, forcing himself to sit up.  Swinging his legs over the side of
the bed, he reached for his crutches, which had been placed nearby.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > If something had hit the car like Atemu
said, then there was probably damage.  That meant more work for Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Ummm..."  Atemu glanced over at Kaiba,
then around the number of people who had been hurt.  "All things considered? 
Yeah.  Yeah , I'm alright.  Things could have gone a lot better if I'd had the
foresight to prepare for something like this.  Nobody died though.  Right?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> "
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

Yugi nodded his agreement.  "Yeah, those two are really stubborn when they want
to be."

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@...> wrote:
>
> Rafael nodded. Glancing back at the door, he said "We should probably get
back. Dishi might need some help."
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> >
> > "Well, I guess that confirms that there is a thief at the very least.  We
should probably post some security there."  Yugi mused.  "But we can't mention
it in front of Atemu or Kaiba, because they'll just try to do something about
it.  And they're really in no condition for that."
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > >
> > > "Unfortunately no..." Rafael grumbled, frowning as he looked away. "It was
far too dark and he was gone before I could see clearly."
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "Were you able to get a look at them?"  Yugi asked hopefully.
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > Rafael blew out a small sigh before cutting to the chase. "I saw
someone inside the storage. Must be a thief since he ran away when I called his
attention."
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "To make sure a certain two people keep resting, right?"  Yugi
asked, stepping out the door.  "What's happened?"
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Having taken the lead, Rafael opened the door and took a step
outside  before turning to Yugi. "This conversation is best done outside." He
stated bluntly as he held onto the door from the outside. 
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

Rafael acknowledged Yugi with a grunt before heading back in. He was inwardly
glad that Yugi believed Kaiba and Atemu should be left out of this one.

-------
SCENE CLOSE
-------

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@...>
wrote:
>
> Yugi nodded his agreement.  "Yeah, those two are really stubborn when they
want to be."
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> >
> > Rafael nodded. Glancing back at the door, he said "We should probably get
back. Dishi might need some help."
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > >
> > > "Well, I guess that confirms that there is a thief at the very least.  We
should probably post some security there."  Yugi mused.  "But we can't mention
it in front of Atemu or Kaiba, because they'll just try to do something about
it.  And they're really in no condition for that."
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "Unfortunately no..." Rafael grumbled, frowning as he looked away. "It
was far too dark and he was gone before I could see clearly."
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "Were you able to get a look at them?"  Yugi asked hopefully.
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Rafael blew out a small sigh before cutting to the chase. "I saw
someone inside the storage. Must be a thief since he ran away when I called his
attention."
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "To make sure a certain two people keep resting, right?"  Yugi
asked, stepping out the door.  "What's happened?"
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Having taken the lead, Rafael opened the door and took a step
outside  before turning to Yugi. "This conversation is best done outside." He
stated bluntly as he held onto the door from the outside. 
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

Rafael acknowledged Yugi with a grunt before heading back in. He was thankful
that Yugi believed that Atemu and Kaiba should be left out of this kind of
problem, considering their conditions.

------
SCENE CLOSE
------

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@...>
wrote:
>
> Yugi nodded his agreement.  "Yeah, those two are really stubborn when they
want to be."
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> >
> > Rafael nodded. Glancing back at the door, he said "We should probably get
back. Dishi might need some help."
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > >
> > > "Well, I guess that confirms that there is a thief at the very least.  We
should probably post some security there."  Yugi mused.  "But we can't mention
it in front of Atemu or Kaiba, because they'll just try to do something about
it.  And they're really in no condition for that."
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "Unfortunately no..." Rafael grumbled, frowning as he looked away. "It
was far too dark and he was gone before I could see clearly."
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "Were you able to get a look at them?"  Yugi asked hopefully.
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Rafael blew out a small sigh before cutting to the chase. "I saw
someone inside the storage. Must be a thief since he ran away when I called his
attention."
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "To make sure a certain two people keep resting, right?"  Yugi
asked, stepping out the door.  "What's happened?"
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Having taken the lead, Rafael opened the door and took a step
outside  before turning to Yugi. "This conversation is best done outside." He
stated bluntly as he held onto the door from the outside. 
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

"Actually, you can now." Dishi said quietly as he pushed the needle through the
edge of the wound and pierced it through the opposite side side. "Now that
Varon-san is here"

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@...>
wrote:
>
> "Do it already."  Atemu prompted.  "I feel like crap and I wanna sleep it
off."
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> >
> > "Of...course..." Dishi said a little worriedly. After cleaning the wound
with the cloth, he worked on removing the old thread. A shadow loomed over from
behind. He stopped and turned towards the new arrival.
> >
> > "Dunno 'ow long until those guys com' back." Varon said as he crouched down
in level with the doctor. "Am 'ere to help, by Raf's orders..." He said, the
last part more to himself.
> >
> > "Well I may need some help in.....securing Atemu-sama" Dishi said, faltering
a bit as he gave Atemu an apologetic look. "In case...you know..."
> >
> > Varon grinned as he gave a small, mock salute. "I know. Stitchin's a pain
fer both parties."
> >
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > >
> > > "Quit fretting and get on with it already.  Oh, and uh, any swearing and
ranting is not directed at you, so don't worry about it and please don't take
offence."  Atemu responded.
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "I have heard that he created Duel Monsters, and you being the one who
beat him. But that was all from the news." Dishi stated. "He kept pushing me
away whenever I tried to help him move on. It got to the point that he outright
refused to see me." Dishi added sadly. "We drifted apart because of that. We
never had much contact until he, Siegfried-San, and the others found me. And
that was after the pandemic struck." He vigorously shook the salt water bottle
before pouring a drop-sized amount on his finger. The scrunched up look he wore
after tasting the sample indicated that the salt water was still potent. After
re-sterilizing his hands, he poured a generous amount of salt water on the cloth
Rafael brought in. "Um... Try not to move too much." He stated, feeling
sympathetic as he brought the cloth close to Atemu's injury. 
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before glancing over to
Pegasus.  "He IS okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how we met him.  He
was trying to collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a result."
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little shocked that Atemu knew
that much. "But he seems fine now." He added He turned to look over his
shoulder, smiling slightly as he watched Pegasus having an almost bubbly chat
with Varon. "But.... After his little.... escapade, I still find it a bit dodgy
to talk to him about.... magic and the like." Noting that Rafael and Yugi might
take their time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized his hands and the tools
he needed in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is going to sting.... But I'm
sure you already know that." He added sheepishly, taking out a bottle of salt
water he suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit off?"  Atemu
guessed.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that Rafael
and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to prevent
the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous. Despite his
tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach. He was in
his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his office,
but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a broom
tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the
Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he
was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a
human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a
panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw....
some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus-san, yes. But after his
wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became
so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he trailed off, not
knowing how he should continue. 
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that Rafael
and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to prevent
the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous. Despite his
tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach. He was in
his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his office,
but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a broom
tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the
Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he
was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a
human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a
panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw....
some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus, yes. But after his wife
died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became so
desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he fell silent, not sure
how he should continue.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at Atemu.  "Behave
yourself."  Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning Rafael to follow him.
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't care if you think I'm
delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and he's not nearly so polite
about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to accept when I can call out
the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the planet, can call out the
Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying, Atemu-sama." Dishi
stated quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away, biting his lip as he
tried to figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple and unoffending way.
Bluntly stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional would surely get him in
a lot of trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to approach the situation. 
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's voice cut in. Dishi
visibly relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the things he had
asked. There was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears poking out of his
coat pocket, much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice sounded calm. But the
doctor noted the tense and rather apprehensive look on his face. Perhaps he
overheard their conversation. 
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm tone as he turned to
the addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a word with you,
alone?" 
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't have to believe me.
But tell me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying to you?"  Atemu
asked.  "Tell you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the Millennium Items. 
You trust him, don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium Items, and my connection
to them.  See what you can find out."
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not know what to say.
But he could honestly say that he had heard worse.... From patients with
schizophrenia. But he was not about to say that out loud. Other than that claim,
Atemu showed no other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia. Or perhaps he was
yet to see it. But then again, he also believed that science could not explain
everything. "Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and hard to believe." 
Yugi commented.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was something Dishi had
not expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely confused.  "You're
supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A part time experience
in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his cool when faced with
highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?"  Yugi asked Atemu
quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why not.  I don't see
any reason not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.  "And I think we
owe him the truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his agreement.  Atemu
turned back to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if you want.  I won't
hold it against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand years ago, in
Egypt.  My spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to be sent home,
but we lost the means."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost alike." Dishi said in
disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's brother.  Not
biologically I mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure him that he
didn't mean it in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt." Dishi recalled. "I
sense an interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell you where he got
his inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because they're very closely
related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using Yugi's name."  Atemu
glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people were within earshot. 
"Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite something." Dishi said,
wondering whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he shook it off. Waving his
hand, he added. "You have your reasons and I respect that." He smiled. "Our
acquaintance is still new. But I can say that you seem to be decent people.
Helping each other to the point of taking yourselves for granted.." He glanced
at Atemu and Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So whatever reason it is, I'm
sure it is understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times."  Atemu commented
fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu."  Yugi answered. 
"The circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe.  But Atemu won
that title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad, like a case of
fraud or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous gulp, Dishi
quickly hid the Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence was irking
the scariest man he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was irritate
him further. "Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh when he
saw it being played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or was that
you, Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not up to date
when it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is either one
of you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding the king of
games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come on.  Settle down. 
Your head's not gonna feel any better getting in another fight with Kaiba-kun." 
Yugi reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't help it."  Atemu
responded defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave Atemu a sour look
over his shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned, sarcasm dripping
from his voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look, Kaiba.  It's your
best friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi, who had been
watching the exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I could use some
assistance in sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing to the surgical
tools he had placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for Rafael-San to
return, though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He stated,
giving Yugi and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a way of
staying in people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reached into his
satchel, pulling out a fist sized lump of brown cotton with green appendages. 
"I have to be honest. Pegasus-San and I may have been friends but this is the
only thing I know about his game." He held the lump for Yugi and Atemu to see.
"This belonged to my son. He would carry this thing  wherever he would go, 
absolutely refusing to leave it, and wailing if I accidentally forgot to bring
it. I think he calls it Furrybow or..Something like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ----------
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > The brown lump is a
Kuriboh stuffed toy. :)
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not normally a
restless sleeper, no.  Only when something disturbs me.  Like sensing that bear
for example.  I'll wait until you're done if you'd prefer.  To make sure I don't
move about while you're working."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Do you need to be tied
down to rest?"  Yugi asked as he approached the bed.  He'd been with a party
checking to make sure they hadn't missed anyone, and had only just returned.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "No, I don't."  Atemu
responded.  "I've already quit, honest.  No more trying to help until I'm
better."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Better late than
never."  Yugi remarked, crossing his arms.  "D'you have any idea how much you've
made people worry about you?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well considering this
is your thirty seventh lecture, yes, I believe I do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, you're not
funny, and I'm not kidding around here.  Do you WANT it to get worse?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course I don't."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Then follow the
doctor's orders!  How many more times?!"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Like I said, I'm going
to behave now.  And I'm sorry I made you worry."  Atemu replied.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed.  "Look, I
know it's just in your nature to watch out for everyone.  But being reckless is
counter productive.  You can't help anyone when you put yourself out of
commission."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know..."  Atemu
groaned, fed up with lecture.  "I already said I'd behave."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well you said that
every other time, so forgive me for not buying it."  Yugi responded.  "You were
supposed to be resting, and getting knocked out trying to deal with a bear
doesn't count."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Seriously, Yugi.  I'm
honestly just wanting to sleep.  My head hurts, and I'm tired, and I gotta say
I'm finding it increasingly difficult to focus on what you're saying."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi's gaze softened. 
"You had me worried sick."  He finished.  "AGAIN."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "It won't happen again."
Atemu replied.  "Duellist's honour."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed.  "Alright. 
I'll hold you to that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "You won't be
disappointed."  Atemu assured him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good."  Yugi looked at
Dishi.  "Is there anything I can help you with?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course you can,
Atemu-sama" Dishi said eagerly, happy that Atemu was willing to cooperate. "But
I do hope you are not the fidgety type when asleep though. You are not fidgety
when asleep, right?" He added hopefully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu, hunched down
a little in guilt, glanced over at Kaiba sheepishly, before facing Dishi again. 
"I'm kinda tired by the way, and I have a bit of a headache.  Am I allowed to
try sleep that off?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "And I'll be
around to make sure you do." Rafael said sternly, his face scrunching up into a
scowl as the thought of amputation crossed his mind. "Anything else that would
be advised, Doc?" He added, turning to Dishi.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi had resumed
digging in his satchel, pulling out a surgical needle, a roll of nylon thread,
and a pair of forceps before acknowledging Rafael. "Well, an increased dose of
garlic would be good. and right now, I need a bowl of salt water or vinegar, and
a clean cloth to start re-stitching this"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael gave a
wordless nod, shooting Atemu and Kaiba a look that promised impending doom
should they give the doctor any trouble, before leaving to get what was asked.
Before making his way to the door, he approached a zoned out Varon who was
innocently sitting by Amelda's bedside. "Keep an eye on those two for me." He
said, leaving before the latter could respond.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu winced a
little, visualizing such an outcome.  It wasn't that he thought he was immune to
such an ailment, or even that it hadn't occurred to him.  He just got so caught
up in worrying about everyone else that he simply forgot about the consequences.
With nothing else to occupy himself, he had no choice but to think about the
risks.  And he wasn't sure about how he could cope with one arm.  His archery
ability would be straight out the window for one thing, and multi tasking would
be more difficult.  "Okay, okay, I'll take it easy."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well, I'm
sorry to say this, Atemu-sama..." Dishi began, a little hesitant to continue
before he finally mustered up the courage. "But you have no choice but to do
so." He gently grasped Atemu's arm, just below the injury. "If you do not rest,
this could get worse. Consider the possibility of developing sepsis, or even
gangrene. And, as extreme as this sounds, you could lose this limb if the latter
would happen" He added, recalling one patient who developed gangrene from a
maltreated injury.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know. 
And I'm sorry for making you all worry."  Atemu replied.  "Everyone looks to me,
and that makes me responsible for them.  I just want to keep them safe.  I've
never been one to lead from the rear."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi
mumbled a soft 'thank you' before gently laying a hand around the injury. He
undid the bandages and took a careful look, biting his lip upon seeing the
thread snapped in various places, allowing blood to seep through. "This needs to
be re-stitched" He mumbled as he buried his free hand in his satchel.
"Atemu-sama" He added, sounding quite desperate. "You really need to be more
careful. You won't have a quick recovery if you...keep this up" He wanted to say
something along the lines of acting completely irrational. But he decided to
play safe. His self appointed assistant, however, had other plans.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "In other
words, quit ramming yourself into trouble." Rafael snapped, inspecting Atemu's
wound over the doctor's shoulder.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu
moved his hand out of the way, to allow Dishi to take a look and show his
permission.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi
stopped the urge to click his tongue as he approached Atemu. "I hope you don't
mind.." He added as he made a move to hold Atemu's arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Atemu brought his right hand up over the bandage guiltily.  "I think it's been
like that a while now."  He commented.  He decided not to mention the boxes in
the garage, or being shoved by Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---
In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Rafael snorted as he watched Anzu leave before turning to face Kaiba and Atemu.
"Speaking of Atemu's options..." He made sure to keep his eyes glued to Atemu's
before continuing. "I don't think he'll have the option of getting up and moving
around whenever he wants as you put it, Kaiba." His gaze moved to the former
Pharaoh's arm. "He just burst his stitches, judging from the blood stain there."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Anzu nodded, glanced quickly at Kaiba, and went to see if she could help someone
else.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> Kaiba regarded Anzu silently, irritated by her presence.  He still didn't have
much time for the girl, but right now he was more annoyed at himself for not
noticing her sooner.  The whole situation was infuriating, and he was quickly
growing tired of it.  The first chance he had, he was making a break for it,
crutches or no crutches.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > "No, not really."  Atemu responded with a small shake of his head.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > Anzu, who had been standing close by for a few minutes, silently listened
to Atemu and Kaiba before deciding to finally make her presence known. "Is there
anything I can get you Atemu?"  She asked.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > "That's easy for you to say."  Kaiba grumbled.  "You have the option of
getting up and moving around a bit when you want...  I can't without crutches. 
I need something to do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > "And I didn't?"  Atemu asked, raising an eyebrow.  "Kaiba, take it
from me, just listen to the doctor.  The grief for not doing so isn't worth it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > "But I have responsibilities."  Kaiba insisted.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Atemu glanced down at his arm, then looked up smirking.  "I'm
sitting in here with a concussion for not taking it easy when I was told to.  Do
you REALLY want to follow my example and ignore their advice?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Possibly."  Kaiba shrugged.  "I don't know."  He cleared his
throat.  "But I don't have time to be like this.  There's so much to be done. 
I'm supposed to be taking care of things, so you can rest and recover."  He
looked pointedly at Atemu's bandaged arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Atemu had removed his jacket, and was examining the bandage
around his arm, noting the blood soaking through in silence, before glancing up.
"I noticed something was bothering you in the garage yesterday.  Is it the same
thing?"  He asked Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "It's...just a cough."  Kaiba forced out, though he was
shocked himself.  When the attack finally died down, he was left breathless,
feeling weak and shaky.  He dropped back down to sit on his bed, giving up on
getting his crutches from Rafael.  Instead, he focussed on trying to breath
properly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > Rafael looked taken aback the moment Kaiba coughed. From
what he was aware of, Kaiba suffered from physical injuries. Not a disease.
Apparently, he was not the only one who was shocked.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Kaiba-sama" Dishi said half heartedly, taking one small
step towards �Kaiba. �The man has a sprained ankle and just got himself a
cough, yet he still refused to back down. He's the very definition of pigheaded.
Dishi had to suppress a whine. "That sounds serious. You can't leave in that
state."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@yahoo groups.co.uk,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "Then give me back my god damn crutches!"  Kaiba
practically bellowed, now completely losing his temper.  He didn't like how
Rafael had advanced on him like that, but he wasn't about to back down.  He'd
never backed down from anything, and he had no intentions of starting now.  But
his chest was starting to burn and his eyes were watering, only adding to his
anger.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > Finally, he couldn't hold it in any longer, and turned
away with a painful sounding cough.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi looked like he was going to pass out upon seeing
Kaiba up on his feet. He gave Rafael a torn look. Part of him wanted to let
Kaiba have his way. But another part knew that if Kaiba continued to push it,
he's never going to get any better. Considering his recklessness, he could get
worse. And he didn't even want to think of the consequences should that happen.
He shrunk back, knowing that a lot of people were looking at them, and prayed
that Kaiba would sprout at least a tinge of common sense.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael, however, kept his ground. Seeing Kaiba up just
made him want to push him back down and tie him to the bed. He growled lowly as
he took a step towards Kaiba. �"Are you really that much of an idiot?" He
almost snarled. "Everyone with half a brain knows that you shouldn't even try to
work in that condition." He added, giving a pointed look at Kaiba's ankle. "But
they are afraid of the combined force of your wrath and stupidity." He glanced
at Dishi before resuming his gaze on Kaiba, his tone becoming stronger. "I may
not be an expert in medicine. But I know that if you continue being stupid,
you'd get worse."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared hatefully and stood up, forcing his
ankle to take his weight.  Rafael didn't phase him in the slightest.  It would
take a lot more than that to intimidate Seto Kaiba.  "I've heard enough.  As
head of security, I demand that you return those to me.  If not, I'll simply
walk without them, and then you'll be held responsible for any lasting damage. 
Now hand them over!"  Kaiba's tone sounded convincing enough, but his head was
spinning and the urge to cough was starting to make his eyes water.  Just what
the hell was going on?  Kaiba clenched his fists angrily.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael nodded at Atemu, giving him a small smile
before turning to Kaiba, his expression morphing from soft to rock hard and
intimidating, not at all affected by Kaiba's words. "Really?" He crossed his
arms, tucking the crutches behind him, and stood tall. "So who has the right to
take these away?" He added sarcastically, holding the crutches for Kaiba to see.
�"Then again, you have no right to walk around with that injury, so we're on a
stalemate"�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Shannon" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared up at Rafael.  "Give those back
right now, or you'll be sorry."  He said in a warning tone.  He pointed at the
crutches.  "You have no right to take them."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu shifted on the bed again, to sit with
his back to the headboard, hiding a wince at the strain on his arm.  "Better?" 
He asked, looking at Rafael.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael quirked a brow. Judging from the look
on Dishi's face, he didn't want Kaiba to get up just yet. With a slight sigh, he
took the crutches away from Kaiba's reach. "You need to rest." He said with
finality. From the corner of his eye, he could see Dishi mouthing a thank you.
"And that goes for you as well..." He added, looking at Atemu.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Shannon" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think we'd have heard about it by now."
Kaiba muttered, forcing himself to sit up.  Swinging his legs over the side of
the bed, he reached for his crutches, which had been placed nearby.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > If something had hit the car like Atemu
said, then there was probably damage.  That meant more work for Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Ummm..."  Atemu glanced over at Kaiba,
then around the number of people who had been hurt.  "All things considered? 
Yeah.  Yeah , I'm alright.  Things could have gone a lot better if I'd had the
foresight to prepare for something like this.  Nobody died though.  Right?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > "
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

"Easier said than done," Atemu responded, before wincing slightly and swearing
loudly.  'And just like that, I'm wide awake again,' he mused, almost grabbing
the injury on impulse.



--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@...> wrote:
>
> "Actually, you can now." Dishi said quietly as he pushed the needle through
the edge of the wound and pierced it through the opposite side side. "Now that
Varon-san is here"
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> >
> > "Do it already."  Atemu prompted.  "I feel like crap and I wanna sleep it
off."
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > >
> > > "Of...course..." Dishi said a little worriedly. After cleaning the wound
with the cloth, he worked on removing the old thread. A shadow loomed over from
behind. He stopped and turned towards the new arrival.
> > >
> > > "Dunno 'ow long until those guys com' back." Varon said as he crouched
down in level with the doctor. "Am 'ere to help, by Raf's orders..." He said,
the last part more to himself.
> > >
> > > "Well I may need some help in.....securing Atemu-sama" Dishi said,
faltering a bit as he gave Atemu an apologetic look. "In case...you know..."
> > >
> > > Varon grinned as he gave a small, mock salute. "I know. Stitchin's a pain
fer both parties."
> > >
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "Quit fretting and get on with it already.  Oh, and uh, any swearing and
ranting is not directed at you, so don't worry about it and please don't take
offence."  Atemu responded.
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "I have heard that he created Duel Monsters, and you being the one who
beat him. But that was all from the news." Dishi stated. "He kept pushing me
away whenever I tried to help him move on. It got to the point that he outright
refused to see me." Dishi added sadly. "We drifted apart because of that. We
never had much contact until he, Siegfried-San, and the others found me. And
that was after the pandemic struck." He vigorously shook the salt water bottle
before pouring a drop-sized amount on his finger. The scrunched up look he wore
after tasting the sample indicated that the salt water was still potent. After
re-sterilizing his hands, he poured a generous amount of salt water on the cloth
Rafael brought in. "Um... Try not to move too much." He stated, feeling
sympathetic as he brought the cloth close to Atemu's injury. 
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before glancing over to
Pegasus.  "He IS okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how we met him.  He
was trying to collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a result."
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little shocked that Atemu
knew that much. "But he seems fine now." He added He turned to look over his
shoulder, smiling slightly as he watched Pegasus having an almost bubbly chat
with Varon. "But.... After his little.... escapade, I still find it a bit dodgy
to talk to him about.... magic and the like." Noting that Rafael and Yugi might
take their time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized his hands and the tools
he needed in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is going to sting.... But I'm
sure you already know that." He added sheepishly, taking out a bottle of salt
water he suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit off?"  Atemu
guessed.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that Rafael
and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to prevent
the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous. Despite his
tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach. He was in
his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his office,
but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a broom
tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the
Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he
was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a
human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a
panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw....
some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus-san, yes. But after his
wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became
so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he trailed off, not
knowing how he should continue. 
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that
Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to
prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous.
Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach.
He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his
office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a
broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the
Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he
was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a
human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a
panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw....
some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus, yes. But after his wife
died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became so
desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he fell silent, not sure
how he should continue.
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at Atemu.  "Behave
yourself."  Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning Rafael to follow him.
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't care if you think
I'm delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and he's not nearly so
polite about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to accept when I can
call out the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the planet, can call
out the Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying, Atemu-sama." Dishi
stated quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away, biting his lip as he
tried to figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple and unoffending way.
Bluntly stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional would surely get him in
a lot of trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to approach the situation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's voice cut in.
Dishi visibly relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the things he had
asked. There was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears poking out of his
coat pocket, much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice sounded calm. But the
doctor noted the tense and rather apprehensive look on his face. Perhaps he
overheard their conversation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm tone as he turned
to the addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a word with you,
alone?" 
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't have to believe
me.  But tell me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying to you?"  Atemu
asked.  "Tell you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the Millennium Items. 
You trust him, don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium Items, and my connection
to them.  See what you can find out."
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not know what to say.
But he could honestly say that he had heard worse.... From patients with
schizophrenia. But he was not about to say that out loud. Other than that claim,
Atemu showed no other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia. Or perhaps he was
yet to see it. But then again, he also believed that science could not explain
everything. "Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and hard to
believe."  Yugi commented.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was something Dishi had
not expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely confused.  "You're
supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A part time experience
in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his cool when faced with
highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?"  Yugi asked Atemu
quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why not.  I don't see
any reason not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.  "And I think we
owe him the truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his agreement.  Atemu
turned back to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if you want.  I won't
hold it against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand years ago, in
Egypt.  My spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to be sent home,
but we lost the means."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost alike." Dishi said
in disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's brother.  Not
biologically I mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure him that he
didn't mean it in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt." Dishi recalled.
"I sense an interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell you where he
got his inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because they're very
closely related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using Yugi's name." 
Atemu glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people were within
earshot.  "Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite something." Dishi
said, wondering whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he shook it off.
Waving his hand, he added. "You have your reasons and I respect that." He
smiled. "Our acquaintance is still new. But I can say that you seem to be decent
people. Helping each other to the point of taking yourselves for granted.." He
glanced at Atemu and Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So whatever reason it
is, I'm sure it is understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times."  Atemu commented
fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu."  Yugi answered. 
"The circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe.  But Atemu won
that title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad, like a case of
fraud or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous gulp, Dishi
quickly hid the Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence was irking
the scariest man he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was irritate
him further. "Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh when he
saw it being played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or was that
you, Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not up to date
when it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is either one
of you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding the king of
games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come on.  Settle down.
Your head's not gonna feel any better getting in another fight with Kaiba-kun." 
Yugi reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't help it."  Atemu
responded defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave Atemu a sour look
over his shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned, sarcasm dripping
from his voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look, Kaiba.  It's
your best friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi, who had been
watching the exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I could use some
assistance in sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing to the surgical
tools he had placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for Rafael-San to
return, though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He stated,
giving Yugi and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a way of
staying in people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reached into his
satchel, pulling out a fist sized lump of brown cotton with green appendages. 
"I have to be honest. Pegasus-San and I may have been friends but this is the
only thing I know about his game." He held the lump for Yugi and Atemu to see.
"This belonged to my son. He would carry this thing  wherever he would go, 
absolutely refusing to leave it, and wailing if I accidentally forgot to bring
it. I think he calls it Furrybow or..Something like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ----------
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > The brown lump is a
Kuriboh stuffed toy. :)
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not normally a
restless sleeper, no.  Only when something disturbs me.  Like sensing that bear
for example.  I'll wait until you're done if you'd prefer.  To make sure I don't
move about while you're working."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Do you need to be
tied down to rest?"  Yugi asked as he approached the bed.  He'd been with a
party checking to make sure they hadn't missed anyone, and had only just
returned.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "No, I don't."  Atemu
responded.  "I've already quit, honest.  No more trying to help until I'm
better."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Better late than
never."  Yugi remarked, crossing his arms.  "D'you have any idea how much you've
made people worry about you?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well considering this
is your thirty seventh lecture, yes, I believe I do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, you're not
funny, and I'm not kidding around here.  Do you WANT it to get worse?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course I don't."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Then follow the
doctor's orders!  How many more times?!"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Like I said, I'm
going to behave now.  And I'm sorry I made you worry."  Atemu replied.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed.  "Look, I
know it's just in your nature to watch out for everyone.  But being reckless is
counter productive.  You can't help anyone when you put yourself out of
commission."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know..."  Atemu
groaned, fed up with lecture.  "I already said I'd behave."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well you said that
every other time, so forgive me for not buying it."  Yugi responded.  "You were
supposed to be resting, and getting knocked out trying to deal with a bear
doesn't count."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Seriously, Yugi.  I'm
honestly just wanting to sleep.  My head hurts, and I'm tired, and I gotta say
I'm finding it increasingly difficult to focus on what you're saying."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi's gaze softened. 
"You had me worried sick."  He finished.  "AGAIN."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "It won't happen
again."  Atemu replied.  "Duellist's honour."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed. 
"Alright.  I'll hold you to that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "You won't be
disappointed."  Atemu assured him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good."  Yugi looked
at Dishi.  "Is there anything I can help you with?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course you can,
Atemu-sama" Dishi said eagerly, happy that Atemu was willing to cooperate. "But
I do hope you are not the fidgety type when asleep though. You are not fidgety
when asleep, right?" He added hopefully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu, hunched
down a little in guilt, glanced over at Kaiba sheepishly, before facing Dishi
again.  "I'm kinda tired by the way, and I have a bit of a headache.  Am I
allowed to try sleep that off?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "And I'll be
around to make sure you do." Rafael said sternly, his face scrunching up into a
scowl as the thought of amputation crossed his mind. "Anything else that would
be advised, Doc?" He added, turning to Dishi.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi had
resumed digging in his satchel, pulling out a surgical needle, a roll of nylon
thread, and a pair of forceps before acknowledging Rafael. "Well, an increased
dose of garlic would be good. and right now, I need a bowl of salt water or
vinegar, and a clean cloth to start re-stitching this"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael gave a
wordless nod, shooting Atemu and Kaiba a look that promised impending doom
should they give the doctor any trouble, before leaving to get what was asked.
Before making his way to the door, he approached a zoned out Varon who was
innocently sitting by Amelda's bedside. "Keep an eye on those two for me." He
said, leaving before the latter could respond.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu winced a
little, visualizing such an outcome.  It wasn't that he thought he was immune to
such an ailment, or even that it hadn't occurred to him.  He just got so caught
up in worrying about everyone else that he simply forgot about the consequences.
With nothing else to occupy himself, he had no choice but to think about the
risks.  And he wasn't sure about how he could cope with one arm.  His archery
ability would be straight out the window for one thing, and multi tasking would
be more difficult.  "Okay, okay, I'll take it easy."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well, I'm
sorry to say this, Atemu-sama..." Dishi began, a little hesitant to continue
before he finally mustered up the courage. "But you have no choice but to do
so." He gently grasped Atemu's arm, just below the injury. "If you do not rest,
this could get worse. Consider the possibility of developing sepsis, or even
gangrene. And, as extreme as this sounds, you could lose this limb if the latter
would happen" He added, recalling one patient who developed gangrene from a
maltreated injury.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know. 
And I'm sorry for making you all worry."  Atemu replied.  "Everyone looks to me,
and that makes me responsible for them.  I just want to keep them safe.  I've
never been one to lead from the rear."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi
mumbled a soft 'thank you' before gently laying a hand around the injury. He
undid the bandages and took a careful look, biting his lip upon seeing the
thread snapped in various places, allowing blood to seep through. "This needs to
be re-stitched" He mumbled as he buried his free hand in his satchel.
"Atemu-sama" He added, sounding quite desperate. "You really need to be more
careful. You won't have a quick recovery if you...keep this up" He wanted to say
something along the lines of acting completely irrational. But he decided to
play safe. His self appointed assistant, however, had other plans.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "In
other words, quit ramming yourself into trouble." Rafael snapped, inspecting
Atemu's wound over the doctor's shoulder.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu
moved his hand out of the way, to allow Dishi to take a look and show his
permission.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Dishi stopped the urge to click his tongue as he approached Atemu. "I hope you
don't mind.." He added as he made a move to hold Atemu's arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---
In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Atemu brought his right hand up over the bandage guiltily.  "I think it's been
like that a while now."  He commented.  He decided not to mention the boxes in
the garage, or being shoved by Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Rafael snorted as he watched Anzu leave before turning to face Kaiba and Atemu.
"Speaking of Atemu's options..." He made sure to keep his eyes glued to Atemu's
before continuing. "I don't think he'll have the option of getting up and moving
around whenever he wants as you put it, Kaiba." His gaze moved to the former
Pharaoh's arm. "He just burst his stitches, judging from the blood stain there."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> Anzu nodded, glanced quickly at Kaiba, and went to see if she could help
someone else.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > Kaiba regarded Anzu silently, irritated by her presence.  He still didn't
have much time for the girl, but right now he was more annoyed at himself for
not noticing her sooner.  The whole situation was infuriating, and he was
quickly growing tired of it.  The first chance he had, he was making a break for
it, crutches or no crutches.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > "No, not really."  Atemu responded with a small shake of his head.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > Anzu, who had been standing close by for a few minutes, silently
listened to Atemu and Kaiba before deciding to finally make her presence known.
"Is there anything I can get you Atemu?"  She asked.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > "That's easy for you to say."  Kaiba grumbled.  "You have the option
of getting up and moving around a bit when you want...  I can't without
crutches.  I need something to do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > "And I didn't?"  Atemu asked, raising an eyebrow.  "Kaiba, take it
from me, just listen to the doctor.  The grief for not doing so isn't worth it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "But I have responsibilities."  Kaiba insisted.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Atemu glanced down at his arm, then looked up smirking.  "I'm
sitting in here with a concussion for not taking it easy when I was told to.  Do
you REALLY want to follow my example and ignore their advice?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Possibly."  Kaiba shrugged.  "I don't know."  He cleared his
throat.  "But I don't have time to be like this.  There's so much to be done. 
I'm supposed to be taking care of things, so you can rest and recover."  He
looked pointedly at Atemu's bandaged arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > Atemu had removed his jacket, and was examining the bandage
around his arm, noting the blood soaking through in silence, before glancing up.
"I noticed something was bothering you in the garage yesterday.  Is it the same
thing?"  He asked Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "It's...just a cough."  Kaiba forced out, though he was
shocked himself.  When the attack finally died down, he was left breathless,
feeling weak and shaky.  He dropped back down to sit on his bed, giving up on
getting his crutches from Rafael.  Instead, he focussed on trying to breath
properly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael looked taken aback the moment Kaiba coughed. From
what he was aware of, Kaiba suffered from physical injuries. Not a disease.
Apparently, he was not the only one who was shocked.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "Kaiba-sama" Dishi said half heartedly, taking one small
step towards �Kaiba. �The man has a sprained ankle and just got himself a
cough, yet he still refused to back down. He's the very definition of pigheaded.
Dishi had to suppress a whine. "That sounds serious. You can't leave in that
state."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@yahoo groups.co.uk,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "Then give me back my god damn crutches!"  Kaiba
practically bellowed, now completely losing his temper.  He didn't like how
Rafael had advanced on him like that, but he wasn't about to back down.  He'd
never backed down from anything, and he had no intentions of starting now.  But
his chest was starting to burn and his eyes were watering, only adding to his
anger.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > Finally, he couldn't hold it in any longer, and turned
away with a painful sounding cough.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi looked like he was going to pass out upon
seeing Kaiba up on his feet. He gave Rafael a torn look. Part of him wanted to
let Kaiba have his way. But another part knew that if Kaiba continued to push
it, he's never going to get any better. Considering his recklessness, he could
get worse. And he didn't even want to think of the consequences should that
happen. He shrunk back, knowing that a lot of people were looking at them, and
prayed that Kaiba would sprout at least a tinge of common sense.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael, however, kept his ground. Seeing Kaiba up
just made him want to push him back down and tie him to the bed. He growled
lowly as he took a step towards Kaiba. �"Are you really that much of an
idiot?" He almost snarled. "Everyone with half a brain knows that you shouldn't
even try to work in that condition." He added, giving a pointed look at Kaiba's
ankle. "But they are afraid of the combined force of your wrath and stupidity."
He glanced at Dishi before resuming his gaze on Kaiba, his tone becoming
stronger. "I may not be an expert in medicine. But I know that if you continue
being stupid, you'd get worse."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared hatefully and stood up, forcing his
ankle to take his weight.  Rafael didn't phase him in the slightest.  It would
take a lot more than that to intimidate Seto Kaiba.  "I've heard enough.  As
head of security, I demand that you return those to me.  If not, I'll simply
walk without them, and then you'll be held responsible for any lasting damage. 
Now hand them over!"  Kaiba's tone sounded convincing enough, but his head was
spinning and the urge to cough was starting to make his eyes water.  Just what
the hell was going on?  Kaiba clenched his fists angrily.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael nodded at Atemu, giving him a small smile
before turning to Kaiba, his expression morphing from soft to rock hard and
intimidating, not at all affected by Kaiba's words. "Really?" He crossed his
arms, tucking the crutches behind him, and stood tall. "So who has the right to
take these away?" He added sarcastically, holding the crutches for Kaiba to see.
�"Then again, you have no right to walk around with that injury, so we're on a
stalemate"�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Shannon" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared up at Rafael.  "Give those back
right now, or you'll be sorry."  He said in a warning tone.  He pointed at the
crutches.  "You have no right to take them."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu shifted on the bed again, to sit with
his back to the headboard, hiding a wince at the strain on his arm.  "Better?" 
He asked, looking at Rafael.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael quirked a brow. Judging from the
look on Dishi's face, he didn't want Kaiba to get up just yet. With a slight
sigh, he took the crutches away from Kaiba's reach. "You need to rest." He said
with finality. From the corner of his eye, he could see Dishi mouthing a thank
you. "And that goes for you as well..." He added, looking at Atemu.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Shannon" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think we'd have heard about it by
now."  Kaiba muttered, forcing himself to sit up.  Swinging his legs over the
side of the bed, he reached for his crutches, which had been placed nearby.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > If something had hit the car like Atemu
said, then there was probably damage.  That meant more work for Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Ummm..."  Atemu glanced over at
Kaiba, then around the number of people who had been hurt.  "All things
considered?  Yeah.  Yeah , I'm alright.  Things could have gone a lot better if
I'd had the foresight to prepare for something like this.  Nobody died though. 
Right?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > "
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

"Sorry about that." Dishi mumbled as he pulled back slightly while Varon gripped
Atemu's shoulder and forearm, careful not to brush on the wound.

"I should take it from here now, Varon." Rafael said as he approached them,
scowling when he saw Varon trying hard not to laugh. After taking Varon's place,
he made sure to glare holes at the back of the latter's head when he walked away
snickering.

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@...>
wrote:
>
> "Easier said than done," Atemu responded, before wincing slightly and swearing
loudly.  'And just like that, I'm wide awake again,' he mused, almost grabbing
the injury on impulse.
>
>
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> >
> > "Actually, you can now." Dishi said quietly as he pushed the needle through
the edge of the wound and pierced it through the opposite side side. "Now that
Varon-san is here"
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > >
> > > "Do it already."  Atemu prompted.  "I feel like crap and I wanna sleep it
off."
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "Of...course..." Dishi said a little worriedly. After cleaning the wound
with the cloth, he worked on removing the old thread. A shadow loomed over from
behind. He stopped and turned towards the new arrival.
> > > >
> > > > "Dunno 'ow long until those guys com' back." Varon said as he crouched
down in level with the doctor. "Am 'ere to help, by Raf's orders..." He said,
the last part more to himself.
> > > >
> > > > "Well I may need some help in.....securing Atemu-sama" Dishi said,
faltering a bit as he gave Atemu an apologetic look. "In case...you know..."
> > > >
> > > > Varon grinned as he gave a small, mock salute. "I know. Stitchin's a
pain fer both parties."
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "Quit fretting and get on with it already.  Oh, and uh, any swearing
and ranting is not directed at you, so don't worry about it and please don't
take offence."  Atemu responded.
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "I have heard that he created Duel Monsters, and you being the one
who beat him. But that was all from the news." Dishi stated. "He kept pushing me
away whenever I tried to help him move on. It got to the point that he outright
refused to see me." Dishi added sadly. "We drifted apart because of that. We
never had much contact until he, Siegfried-San, and the others found me. And
that was after the pandemic struck." He vigorously shook the salt water bottle
before pouring a drop-sized amount on his finger. The scrunched up look he wore
after tasting the sample indicated that the salt water was still potent. After
re-sterilizing his hands, he poured a generous amount of salt water on the cloth
Rafael brought in. "Um... Try not to move too much." He stated, feeling
sympathetic as he brought the cloth close to Atemu's injury. 
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before glancing over to
Pegasus.  "He IS okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how we met him.  He
was trying to collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a result."
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little shocked that Atemu
knew that much. "But he seems fine now." He added He turned to look over his
shoulder, smiling slightly as he watched Pegasus having an almost bubbly chat
with Varon. "But.... After his little.... escapade, I still find it a bit dodgy
to talk to him about.... magic and the like." Noting that Rafael and Yugi might
take their time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized his hands and the tools
he needed in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is going to sting.... But I'm
sure you already know that." He added sheepishly, taking out a bottle of salt
water he suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit off?"  Atemu
guessed.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that
Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to
prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous.
Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach.
He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his
office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a
broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of the
Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant that he
was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled him-- a
human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before he could
affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a
panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw....
some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus-san, yes. But after his
wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became
so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he trailed off, not
knowing how he should continue. 
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that
Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to
prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous.
Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach.
He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his
office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a
broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of
the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant
that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled
him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before
he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a
panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw....
some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus, yes. But after his wife
died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became so
desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he fell silent, not sure
how he should continue.
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at Atemu. 
"Behave yourself."  Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning Rafael to
follow him.
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't care if you think
I'm delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and he's not nearly so
polite about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to accept when I can
call out the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the planet, can call
out the Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying, Atemu-sama." Dishi
stated quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away, biting his lip as he
tried to figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple and unoffending way.
Bluntly stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional would surely get him in
a lot of trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to approach the situation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's voice cut in.
Dishi visibly relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the things he had
asked. There was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears poking out of his
coat pocket, much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice sounded calm. But the
doctor noted the tense and rather apprehensive look on his face. Perhaps he
overheard their conversation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm tone as he
turned to the addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a word with
you, alone?" 
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't have to believe
me.  But tell me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying to you?"  Atemu
asked.  "Tell you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the Millennium Items. 
You trust him, don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium Items, and my connection
to them.  See what you can find out."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not know what to
say. But he could honestly say that he had heard worse.... From patients with
schizophrenia. But he was not about to say that out loud. Other than that claim,
Atemu showed no other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia. Or perhaps he was
yet to see it. But then again, he also believed that science could not explain
everything. "Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and hard to
believe."  Yugi commented.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was something Dishi
had not expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely confused. 
"You're supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A part time
experience in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his cool when
faced with highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?"  Yugi asked
Atemu quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why not.  I don't
see any reason not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.  "And I think
we owe him the truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his agreement. 
Atemu turned back to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if you want.  I
won't hold it against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand years ago, in
Egypt.  My spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to be sent home,
but we lost the means."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost alike." Dishi
said in disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's brother.  Not
biologically I mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure him that he
didn't mean it in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt." Dishi
recalled. "I sense an interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell you where he
got his inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because they're very
closely related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using Yugi's name." 
Atemu glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people were within
earshot.  "Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite something." Dishi
said, wondering whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he shook it off.
Waving his hand, he added. "You have your reasons and I respect that." He
smiled. "Our acquaintance is still new. But I can say that you seem to be decent
people. Helping each other to the point of taking yourselves for granted.." He
glanced at Atemu and Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So whatever reason it
is, I'm sure it is understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times."  Atemu commented
fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu."  Yugi answered. 
"The circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe.  But Atemu won
that title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad, like a case of
fraud or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous gulp, Dishi
quickly hid the Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence was irking
the scariest man he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was irritate
him further. "Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh when he
saw it being played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or was that
you, Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not up to date
when it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is either one
of you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding the king of
games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come on.  Settle
down.  Your head's not gonna feel any better getting in another fight with
Kaiba-kun."  Yugi reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't help it."  Atemu
responded defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave Atemu a sour
look over his shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned, sarcasm
dripping from his voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look, Kaiba.  It's
your best friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi, who had been
watching the exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I could use some
assistance in sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing to the surgical
tools he had placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for Rafael-San to
return, though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He stated,
giving Yugi and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a way of
staying in people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reached into his
satchel, pulling out a fist sized lump of brown cotton with green appendages. 
"I have to be honest. Pegasus-San and I may have been friends but this is the
only thing I know about his game." He held the lump for Yugi and Atemu to see.
"This belonged to my son. He would carry this thing  wherever he would go, 
absolutely refusing to leave it, and wailing if I accidentally forgot to bring
it. I think he calls it Furrybow or..Something like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ----------
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > The brown lump is a
Kuriboh stuffed toy. :)
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not normally a
restless sleeper, no.  Only when something disturbs me.  Like sensing that bear
for example.  I'll wait until you're done if you'd prefer.  To make sure I don't
move about while you're working."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Do you need to be
tied down to rest?"  Yugi asked as he approached the bed.  He'd been with a
party checking to make sure they hadn't missed anyone, and had only just
returned.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "No, I don't." 
Atemu responded.  "I've already quit, honest.  No more trying to help until I'm
better."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Better late than
never."  Yugi remarked, crossing his arms.  "D'you have any idea how much you've
made people worry about you?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well considering
this is your thirty seventh lecture, yes, I believe I do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, you're not
funny, and I'm not kidding around here.  Do you WANT it to get worse?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course I don't."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Then follow the
doctor's orders!  How many more times?!"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Like I said, I'm
going to behave now.  And I'm sorry I made you worry."  Atemu replied.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed.  "Look,
I know it's just in your nature to watch out for everyone.  But being reckless
is counter productive.  You can't help anyone when you put yourself out of
commission."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know..."  Atemu
groaned, fed up with lecture.  "I already said I'd behave."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well you said that
every other time, so forgive me for not buying it."  Yugi responded.  "You were
supposed to be resting, and getting knocked out trying to deal with a bear
doesn't count."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Seriously, Yugi. 
I'm honestly just wanting to sleep.  My head hurts, and I'm tired, and I gotta
say I'm finding it increasingly difficult to focus on what you're saying."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi's gaze
softened.  "You had me worried sick."  He finished.  "AGAIN."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "It won't happen
again."  Atemu replied.  "Duellist's honour."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed. 
"Alright.  I'll hold you to that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "You won't be
disappointed."  Atemu assured him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good."  Yugi looked
at Dishi.  "Is there anything I can help you with?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course you
can, Atemu-sama" Dishi said eagerly, happy that Atemu was willing to cooperate.
"But I do hope you are not the fidgety type when asleep though. You are not
fidgety when asleep, right?" He added hopefully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu, hunched
down a little in guilt, glanced over at Kaiba sheepishly, before facing Dishi
again.  "I'm kinda tired by the way, and I have a bit of a headache.  Am I
allowed to try sleep that off?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "And I'll be
around to make sure you do." Rafael said sternly, his face scrunching up into a
scowl as the thought of amputation crossed his mind. "Anything else that would
be advised, Doc?" He added, turning to Dishi.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi had
resumed digging in his satchel, pulling out a surgical needle, a roll of nylon
thread, and a pair of forceps before acknowledging Rafael. "Well, an increased
dose of garlic would be good. and right now, I need a bowl of salt water or
vinegar, and a clean cloth to start re-stitching this"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael gave a
wordless nod, shooting Atemu and Kaiba a look that promised impending doom
should they give the doctor any trouble, before leaving to get what was asked.
Before making his way to the door, he approached a zoned out Varon who was
innocently sitting by Amelda's bedside. "Keep an eye on those two for me." He
said, leaving before the latter could respond.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu winced
a little, visualizing such an outcome.  It wasn't that he thought he was immune
to such an ailment, or even that it hadn't occurred to him.  He just got so
caught up in worrying about everyone else that he simply forgot about the
consequences.  With nothing else to occupy himself, he had no choice but to
think about the risks.  And he wasn't sure about how he could cope with one arm.
His archery ability would be straight out the window for one thing, and multi
tasking would be more difficult.  "Okay, okay, I'll take it easy."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well, I'm
sorry to say this, Atemu-sama..." Dishi began, a little hesitant to continue
before he finally mustered up the courage. "But you have no choice but to do
so." He gently grasped Atemu's arm, just below the injury. "If you do not rest,
this could get worse. Consider the possibility of developing sepsis, or even
gangrene. And, as extreme as this sounds, you could lose this limb if the latter
would happen" He added, recalling one patient who developed gangrene from a
maltreated injury.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know.
And I'm sorry for making you all worry."  Atemu replied.  "Everyone looks to me,
and that makes me responsible for them.  I just want to keep them safe.  I've
never been one to lead from the rear."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi
mumbled a soft 'thank you' before gently laying a hand around the injury. He
undid the bandages and took a careful look, biting his lip upon seeing the
thread snapped in various places, allowing blood to seep through. "This needs to
be re-stitched" He mumbled as he buried his free hand in his satchel.
"Atemu-sama" He added, sounding quite desperate. "You really need to be more
careful. You won't have a quick recovery if you...keep this up" He wanted to say
something along the lines of acting completely irrational. But he decided to
play safe. His self appointed assistant, however, had other plans.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "In
other words, quit ramming yourself into trouble." Rafael snapped, inspecting
Atemu's wound over the doctor's shoulder.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Atemu moved his hand out of the way, to allow Dishi to take a look and show his
permission.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---
In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Dishi stopped the urge to click his tongue as he approached Atemu. "I hope you
don't mind.." He added as he made a move to hold Atemu's arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Atemu brought his right hand up over the bandage guiltily.  "I think it's been
like that a while now."  He commented.  He decided not to mention the boxes in
the garage, or being shoved by Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> Rafael snorted as he watched Anzu leave before turning to face Kaiba and
Atemu. "Speaking of Atemu's options..." He made sure to keep his eyes glued to
Atemu's before continuing. "I don't think he'll have the option of getting up
and moving around whenever he wants as you put it, Kaiba." His gaze moved to the
former Pharaoh's arm. "He just burst his stitches, judging from the blood stain
there."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > Anzu nodded, glanced quickly at Kaiba, and went to see if she could help
someone else.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > Kaiba regarded Anzu silently, irritated by her presence.  He still didn't
have much time for the girl, but right now he was more annoyed at himself for
not noticing her sooner.  The whole situation was infuriating, and he was
quickly growing tired of it.  The first chance he had, he was making a break for
it, crutches or no crutches.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > "No, not really."  Atemu responded with a small shake of his head.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > Anzu, who had been standing close by for a few minutes, silently
listened to Atemu and Kaiba before deciding to finally make her presence known.
"Is there anything I can get you Atemu?"  She asked.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > "That's easy for you to say."  Kaiba grumbled.  "You have the option
of getting up and moving around a bit when you want...  I can't without
crutches.  I need something to do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "And I didn't?"  Atemu asked, raising an eyebrow.  "Kaiba, take it
from me, just listen to the doctor.  The grief for not doing so isn't worth it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "But I have responsibilities."  Kaiba insisted.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Atemu glanced down at his arm, then looked up smirking.  "I'm
sitting in here with a concussion for not taking it easy when I was told to.  Do
you REALLY want to follow my example and ignore their advice?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Possibly."  Kaiba shrugged.  "I don't know."  He cleared
his throat.  "But I don't have time to be like this.  There's so much to be
done.  I'm supposed to be taking care of things, so you can rest and recover." 
He looked pointedly at Atemu's bandaged arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > Atemu had removed his jacket, and was examining the
bandage around his arm, noting the blood soaking through in silence, before
glancing up.  "I noticed something was bothering you in the garage yesterday. 
Is it the same thing?"  He asked Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "It's...just a cough."  Kaiba forced out, though he was
shocked himself.  When the attack finally died down, he was left breathless,
feeling weak and shaky.  He dropped back down to sit on his bed, giving up on
getting his crutches from Rafael.  Instead, he focussed on trying to breath
properly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael looked taken aback the moment Kaiba coughed.
From what he was aware of, Kaiba suffered from physical injuries. Not a disease.
Apparently, he was not the only one who was shocked.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "Kaiba-sama" Dishi said half heartedly, taking one
small step towards �Kaiba. �The man has a sprained ankle and just got
himself a cough, yet he still refused to back down. He's the very definition of
pigheaded. Dishi had to suppress a whine. "That sounds serious. You can't leave
in that state."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@yahoo groups.co.uk,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Then give me back my god damn crutches!"  Kaiba
practically bellowed, now completely losing his temper.  He didn't like how
Rafael had advanced on him like that, but he wasn't about to back down.  He'd
never backed down from anything, and he had no intentions of starting now.  But
his chest was starting to burn and his eyes were watering, only adding to his
anger.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Finally, he couldn't hold it in any longer, and
turned away with a painful sounding cough.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi looked like he was going to pass out upon
seeing Kaiba up on his feet. He gave Rafael a torn look. Part of him wanted to
let Kaiba have his way. But another part knew that if Kaiba continued to push
it, he's never going to get any better. Considering his recklessness, he could
get worse. And he didn't even want to think of the consequences should that
happen. He shrunk back, knowing that a lot of people were looking at them, and
prayed that Kaiba would sprout at least a tinge of common sense.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael, however, kept his ground. Seeing Kaiba up
just made him want to push him back down and tie him to the bed. He growled
lowly as he took a step towards Kaiba. �"Are you really that much of an
idiot?" He almost snarled. "Everyone with half a brain knows that you shouldn't
even try to work in that condition." He added, giving a pointed look at Kaiba's
ankle. "But they are afraid of the combined force of your wrath and stupidity."
He glanced at Dishi before resuming his gaze on Kaiba, his tone becoming
stronger. "I may not be an expert in medicine. But I know that if you continue
being stupid, you'd get worse."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared hatefully and stood up, forcing his
ankle to take his weight.  Rafael didn't phase him in the slightest.  It would
take a lot more than that to intimidate Seto Kaiba.  "I've heard enough.  As
head of security, I demand that you return those to me.  If not, I'll simply
walk without them, and then you'll be held responsible for any lasting damage. 
Now hand them over!"  Kaiba's tone sounded convincing enough, but his head was
spinning and the urge to cough was starting to make his eyes water.  Just what
the hell was going on?  Kaiba clenched his fists angrily.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael nodded at Atemu, giving him a small
smile before turning to Kaiba, his expression morphing from soft to rock hard
and intimidating, not at all affected by Kaiba's words. "Really?" He crossed his
arms, tucking the crutches behind him, and stood tall. "So who has the right to
take these away?" He added sarcastically, holding the crutches for Kaiba to see.
�"Then again, you have no right to walk around with that injury, so we're on a
stalemate"�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Shannon" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared up at Rafael.  "Give those back
right now, or you'll be sorry."  He said in a warning tone.  He pointed at the
crutches.  "You have no right to take them."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu shifted on the bed again, to sit
with his back to the headboard, hiding a wince at the strain on his arm. 
"Better?"  He asked, looking at Rafael.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael quirked a brow. Judging from the
look on Dishi's face, he didn't want Kaiba to get up just yet. With a slight
sigh, he took the crutches away from Kaiba's reach. "You need to rest." He said
with finality. From the corner of his eye, he could see Dishi mouthing a thank
you. "And that goes for you as well..." He added, looking at Atemu.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Shannon" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think we'd have heard about it by
now."  Kaiba muttered, forcing himself to sit up.  Swinging his legs over the
side of the bed, he reached for his crutches, which had been placed nearby.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > If something had hit the car like
Atemu said, then there was probably damage.  That meant more work for Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Ummm..."  Atemu glanced over at
Kaiba, then around the number of people who had been hurt.  "All things
considered?  Yeah.  Yeah , I'm alright.  Things could have gone a lot better if
I'd had the foresight to prepare for something like this.  Nobody died though. 
Right?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > "
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

"What the hell's so funny?!" Atemu snapped at Varon's back while Yugi arrived.

"Atemu, sit still and be quiet," Yugi chastised him.

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@...> wrote:
>
> "Sorry about that." Dishi mumbled as he pulled back slightly while Varon
gripped Atemu's shoulder and forearm, careful not to brush on the wound.
>
> "I should take it from here now, Varon." Rafael said as he approached them,
scowling when he saw Varon trying hard not to laugh. After taking Varon's place,
he made sure to glare holes at the back of the latter's head when he walked away
snickering.
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> >
> > "Easier said than done," Atemu responded, before wincing slightly and
swearing loudly.  'And just like that, I'm wide awake again,' he mused, almost
grabbing the injury on impulse.
> >
> >
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > >
> > > "Actually, you can now." Dishi said quietly as he pushed the needle
through the edge of the wound and pierced it through the opposite side side.
"Now that Varon-san is here"
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "Do it already."  Atemu prompted.  "I feel like crap and I wanna sleep
it off."
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "Of...course..." Dishi said a little worriedly. After cleaning the
wound with the cloth, he worked on removing the old thread. A shadow loomed over
from behind. He stopped and turned towards the new arrival.
> > > > >
> > > > > "Dunno 'ow long until those guys com' back." Varon said as he crouched
down in level with the doctor. "Am 'ere to help, by Raf's orders..." He said,
the last part more to himself.
> > > > >
> > > > > "Well I may need some help in.....securing Atemu-sama" Dishi said,
faltering a bit as he gave Atemu an apologetic look. "In case...you know..."
> > > > >
> > > > > Varon grinned as he gave a small, mock salute. "I know. Stitchin's a
pain fer both parties."
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Quit fretting and get on with it already.  Oh, and uh, any swearing
and ranting is not directed at you, so don't worry about it and please don't
take offence."  Atemu responded.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "I have heard that he created Duel Monsters, and you being the one
who beat him. But that was all from the news." Dishi stated. "He kept pushing me
away whenever I tried to help him move on. It got to the point that he outright
refused to see me." Dishi added sadly. "We drifted apart because of that. We
never had much contact until he, Siegfried-San, and the others found me. And
that was after the pandemic struck." He vigorously shook the salt water bottle
before pouring a drop-sized amount on his finger. The scrunched up look he wore
after tasting the sample indicated that the salt water was still potent. After
re-sterilizing his hands, he poured a generous amount of salt water on the cloth
Rafael brought in. "Um... Try not to move too much." He stated, feeling
sympathetic as he brought the cloth close to Atemu's injury. 
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before glancing over to
Pegasus.  "He IS okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how we met him.  He
was trying to collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a result."
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little shocked that Atemu
knew that much. "But he seems fine now." He added He turned to look over his
shoulder, smiling slightly as he watched Pegasus having an almost bubbly chat
with Varon. "But.... After his little.... escapade, I still find it a bit dodgy
to talk to him about.... magic and the like." Noting that Rafael and Yugi might
take their time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized his hands and the tools
he needed in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is going to sting.... But I'm
sure you already know that." He added sheepishly, taking out a bottle of salt
water he suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit off?"  Atemu
guessed.
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that
Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to
prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous.
Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach.
He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his
office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a
broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of
the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant
that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled
him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before
he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was a
panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw....
some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus-san, yes. But after his
wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became
so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he trailed off, not
knowing how he should continue. 
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that
Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to
prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous.
Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach.
He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his
office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a
broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of
the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant
that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled
him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before
he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was
a panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw....
some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus, yes. But after his wife
died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became so
desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he fell silent, not sure
how he should continue.
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at Atemu. 
"Behave yourself."  Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning Rafael to
follow him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't care if you
think I'm delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and he's not nearly
so polite about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to accept when I can
call out the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the planet, can call
out the Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying, Atemu-sama."
Dishi stated quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away, biting his lip as
he tried to figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple and unoffending
way. Bluntly stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional would surely get
him in a lot of trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to approach the
situation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's voice cut in.
Dishi visibly relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the things he had
asked. There was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears poking out of his
coat pocket, much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice sounded calm. But the
doctor noted the tense and rather apprehensive look on his face. Perhaps he
overheard their conversation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm tone as he
turned to the addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a word with
you, alone?" 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't have to
believe me.  But tell me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying to you?"
Atemu asked.  "Tell you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the Millennium
Items.  You trust him, don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium Items, and my
connection to them.  See what you can find out."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not know what to
say. But he could honestly say that he had heard worse.... From patients with
schizophrenia. But he was not about to say that out loud. Other than that claim,
Atemu showed no other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia. Or perhaps he was
yet to see it. But then again, he also believed that science could not explain
everything. "Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and hard to
believe."  Yugi commented.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was something Dishi
had not expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely confused. 
"You're supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A part time
experience in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his cool when
faced with highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?"  Yugi asked
Atemu quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why not.  I don't
see any reason not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.  "And I think
we owe him the truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his agreement. 
Atemu turned back to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if you want.  I
won't hold it against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand years ago, in
Egypt.  My spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to be sent home,
but we lost the means."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost alike." Dishi
said in disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's brother.  Not
biologically I mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure him that he
didn't mean it in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt." Dishi
recalled. "I sense an interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell you where
he got his inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because they're very
closely related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using Yugi's name." 
Atemu glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people were within
earshot.  "Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite something." Dishi
said, wondering whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he shook it off.
Waving his hand, he added. "You have your reasons and I respect that." He
smiled. "Our acquaintance is still new. But I can say that you seem to be decent
people. Helping each other to the point of taking yourselves for granted.." He
glanced at Atemu and Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So whatever reason it
is, I'm sure it is understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times."  Atemu commented
fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu."  Yugi
answered.  "The circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe.  But
Atemu won that title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad, like a
case of fraud or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous gulp, Dishi
quickly hid the Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence was irking
the scariest man he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was irritate
him further. "Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh when he
saw it being played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or was that
you, Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not up to date
when it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is either one
of you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding the king of
games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come on.  Settle
down.  Your head's not gonna feel any better getting in another fight with
Kaiba-kun."  Yugi reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't help it." 
Atemu responded defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave Atemu a sour
look over his shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned, sarcasm
dripping from his voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look, Kaiba. 
It's your best friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi, who had been
watching the exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I could use some
assistance in sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing to the surgical
tools he had placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for Rafael-San to
return, though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He stated,
giving Yugi and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a way of
staying in people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reached into his
satchel, pulling out a fist sized lump of brown cotton with green appendages. 
"I have to be honest. Pegasus-San and I may have been friends but this is the
only thing I know about his game." He held the lump for Yugi and Atemu to see.
"This belonged to my son. He would carry this thing  wherever he would go, 
absolutely refusing to leave it, and wailing if I accidentally forgot to bring
it. I think he calls it Furrybow or..Something like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ----------
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > The brown lump is a
Kuriboh stuffed toy. :)
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not normally
a restless sleeper, no.  Only when something disturbs me.  Like sensing that
bear for example.  I'll wait until you're done if you'd prefer.  To make sure I
don't move about while you're working."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Do you need to be
tied down to rest?"  Yugi asked as he approached the bed.  He'd been with a
party checking to make sure they hadn't missed anyone, and had only just
returned.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "No, I don't." 
Atemu responded.  "I've already quit, honest.  No more trying to help until I'm
better."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Better late than
never."  Yugi remarked, crossing his arms.  "D'you have any idea how much you've
made people worry about you?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well considering
this is your thirty seventh lecture, yes, I believe I do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, you're not
funny, and I'm not kidding around here.  Do you WANT it to get worse?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course I
don't."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Then follow the
doctor's orders!  How many more times?!"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Like I said, I'm
going to behave now.  And I'm sorry I made you worry."  Atemu replied.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed. 
"Look, I know it's just in your nature to watch out for everyone.  But being
reckless is counter productive.  You can't help anyone when you put yourself out
of commission."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know..."  Atemu
groaned, fed up with lecture.  "I already said I'd behave."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well you said
that every other time, so forgive me for not buying it."  Yugi responded.  "You
were supposed to be resting, and getting knocked out trying to deal with a bear
doesn't count."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Seriously, Yugi. 
I'm honestly just wanting to sleep.  My head hurts, and I'm tired, and I gotta
say I'm finding it increasingly difficult to focus on what you're saying."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi's gaze
softened.  "You had me worried sick."  He finished.  "AGAIN."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "It won't happen
again."  Atemu replied.  "Duellist's honour."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed. 
"Alright.  I'll hold you to that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "You won't be
disappointed."  Atemu assured him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good."  Yugi
looked at Dishi.  "Is there anything I can help you with?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course you
can, Atemu-sama" Dishi said eagerly, happy that Atemu was willing to cooperate.
"But I do hope you are not the fidgety type when asleep though. You are not
fidgety when asleep, right?" He added hopefully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu, hunched
down a little in guilt, glanced over at Kaiba sheepishly, before facing Dishi
again.  "I'm kinda tired by the way, and I have a bit of a headache.  Am I
allowed to try sleep that off?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "And I'll be
around to make sure you do." Rafael said sternly, his face scrunching up into a
scowl as the thought of amputation crossed his mind. "Anything else that would
be advised, Doc?" He added, turning to Dishi.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi had
resumed digging in his satchel, pulling out a surgical needle, a roll of nylon
thread, and a pair of forceps before acknowledging Rafael. "Well, an increased
dose of garlic would be good. and right now, I need a bowl of salt water or
vinegar, and a clean cloth to start re-stitching this"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael gave
a wordless nod, shooting Atemu and Kaiba a look that promised impending doom
should they give the doctor any trouble, before leaving to get what was asked.
Before making his way to the door, he approached a zoned out Varon who was
innocently sitting by Amelda's bedside. "Keep an eye on those two for me." He
said, leaving before the latter could respond.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu
winced a little, visualizing such an outcome.  It wasn't that he thought he was
immune to such an ailment, or even that it hadn't occurred to him.  He just got
so caught up in worrying about everyone else that he simply forgot about the
consequences.  With nothing else to occupy himself, he had no choice but to
think about the risks.  And he wasn't sure about how he could cope with one arm.
His archery ability would be straight out the window for one thing, and multi
tasking would be more difficult.  "Okay, okay, I'll take it easy."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well,
I'm sorry to say this, Atemu-sama..." Dishi began, a little hesitant to continue
before he finally mustered up the courage. "But you have no choice but to do
so." He gently grasped Atemu's arm, just below the injury. "If you do not rest,
this could get worse. Consider the possibility of developing sepsis, or even
gangrene. And, as extreme as this sounds, you could lose this limb if the latter
would happen" He added, recalling one patient who developed gangrene from a
maltreated injury.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I
know.  And I'm sorry for making you all worry."  Atemu replied.  "Everyone looks
to me, and that makes me responsible for them.  I just want to keep them safe. 
I've never been one to lead from the rear."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Dishi mumbled a soft 'thank you' before gently laying a hand around the injury.
He undid the bandages and took a careful look, biting his lip upon seeing the
thread snapped in various places, allowing blood to seep through. "This needs to
be re-stitched" He mumbled as he buried his free hand in his satchel.
"Atemu-sama" He added, sounding quite desperate. "You really need to be more
careful. You won't have a quick recovery if you...keep this up" He wanted to say
something along the lines of acting completely irrational. But he decided to
play safe. His self appointed assistant, however, had other plans.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "In
other words, quit ramming yourself into trouble." Rafael snapped, inspecting
Atemu's wound over the doctor's shoulder.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---
In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Atemu moved his hand out of the way, to allow Dishi to take a look and show his
permission.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Dishi stopped the urge to click his tongue as he approached Atemu. "I hope you
don't mind.." He added as he made a move to hold Atemu's arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> Atemu brought his right hand up over the bandage guiltily.  "I think it's been
like that a while now."  He commented.  He decided not to mention the boxes in
the garage, or being shoved by Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > Rafael snorted as he watched Anzu leave before turning to face Kaiba and
Atemu. "Speaking of Atemu's options..." He made sure to keep his eyes glued to
Atemu's before continuing. "I don't think he'll have the option of getting up
and moving around whenever he wants as you put it, Kaiba." His gaze moved to the
former Pharaoh's arm. "He just burst his stitches, judging from the blood stain
there."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > Anzu nodded, glanced quickly at Kaiba, and went to see if she could help
someone else.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > Kaiba regarded Anzu silently, irritated by her presence.  He still
didn't have much time for the girl, but right now he was more annoyed at himself
for not noticing her sooner.  The whole situation was infuriating, and he was
quickly growing tired of it.  The first chance he had, he was making a break for
it, crutches or no crutches.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > "No, not really."  Atemu responded with a small shake of his head.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey"
<ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > Anzu, who had been standing close by for a few minutes, silently
listened to Atemu and Kaiba before deciding to finally make her presence known.
"Is there anything I can get you Atemu?"  She asked.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "That's easy for you to say."  Kaiba grumbled.  "You have the
option of getting up and moving around a bit when you want...  I can't without
crutches.  I need something to do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "And I didn't?"  Atemu asked, raising an eyebrow.  "Kaiba, take
it from me, just listen to the doctor.  The grief for not doing so isn't worth
it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "But I have responsibilities."  Kaiba insisted.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > Atemu glanced down at his arm, then looked up smirking. 
"I'm sitting in here with a concussion for not taking it easy when I was told
to.  Do you REALLY want to follow my example and ignore their advice?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Possibly."  Kaiba shrugged.  "I don't know."  He cleared
his throat.  "But I don't have time to be like this.  There's so much to be
done.  I'm supposed to be taking care of things, so you can rest and recover." 
He looked pointedly at Atemu's bandaged arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu had removed his jacket, and was examining the
bandage around his arm, noting the blood soaking through in silence, before
glancing up.  "I noticed something was bothering you in the garage yesterday. 
Is it the same thing?"  He asked Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "It's...just a cough."  Kaiba forced out, though he
was shocked himself.  When the attack finally died down, he was left breathless,
feeling weak and shaky.  He dropped back down to sit on his bed, giving up on
getting his crutches from Rafael.  Instead, he focussed on trying to breath
properly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael looked taken aback the moment Kaiba coughed.
From what he was aware of, Kaiba suffered from physical injuries. Not a disease.
Apparently, he was not the only one who was shocked.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Kaiba-sama" Dishi said half heartedly, taking one
small step towards �Kaiba. �The man has a sprained ankle and just got
himself a cough, yet he still refused to back down. He's the very definition of
pigheaded. Dishi had to suppress a whine. "That sounds serious. You can't leave
in that state."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@yahoo groups.co.uk,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Then give me back my god damn crutches!"  Kaiba
practically bellowed, now completely losing his temper.  He didn't like how
Rafael had advanced on him like that, but he wasn't about to back down.  He'd
never backed down from anything, and he had no intentions of starting now.  But
his chest was starting to burn and his eyes were watering, only adding to his
anger.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Finally, he couldn't hold it in any longer, and
turned away with a painful sounding cough.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi looked like he was going to pass out upon
seeing Kaiba up on his feet. He gave Rafael a torn look. Part of him wanted to
let Kaiba have his way. But another part knew that if Kaiba continued to push
it, he's never going to get any better. Considering his recklessness, he could
get worse. And he didn't even want to think of the consequences should that
happen. He shrunk back, knowing that a lot of people were looking at them, and
prayed that Kaiba would sprout at least a tinge of common sense.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael, however, kept his ground. Seeing Kaiba
up just made him want to push him back down and tie him to the bed. He growled
lowly as he took a step towards Kaiba. �"Are you really that much of an
idiot?" He almost snarled. "Everyone with half a brain knows that you shouldn't
even try to work in that condition." He added, giving a pointed look at Kaiba's
ankle. "But they are afraid of the combined force of your wrath and stupidity."
He glanced at Dishi before resuming his gaze on Kaiba, his tone becoming
stronger. "I may not be an expert in medicine. But I know that if you continue
being stupid, you'd get worse."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared hatefully and stood up, forcing
his ankle to take his weight.  Rafael didn't phase him in the slightest.  It
would take a lot more than that to intimidate Seto Kaiba.  "I've heard enough. 
As head of security, I demand that you return those to me.  If not, I'll simply
walk without them, and then you'll be held responsible for any lasting damage. 
Now hand them over!"  Kaiba's tone sounded convincing enough, but his head was
spinning and the urge to cough was starting to make his eyes water.  Just what
the hell was going on?  Kaiba clenched his fists angrily.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael nodded at Atemu, giving him a small
smile before turning to Kaiba, his expression morphing from soft to rock hard
and intimidating, not at all affected by Kaiba's words. "Really?" He crossed his
arms, tucking the crutches behind him, and stood tall. "So who has the right to
take these away?" He added sarcastically, holding the crutches for Kaiba to see.
�"Then again, you have no right to walk around with that injury, so we're on a
stalemate"�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Shannon" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared up at Rafael.  "Give those
back right now, or you'll be sorry."  He said in a warning tone.  He pointed at
the crutches.  "You have no right to take them."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu shifted on the bed again, to sit
with his back to the headboard, hiding a wince at the strain on his arm. 
"Better?"  He asked, looking at Rafael.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael quirked a brow. Judging from
the look on Dishi's face, he didn't want Kaiba to get up just yet. With a slight
sigh, he took the crutches away from Kaiba's reach. "You need to rest." He said
with finality. From the corner of his eye, he could see Dishi mouthing a thank
you. "And that goes for you as well..." He added, looking at Atemu.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Shannon" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think we'd have heard about it by
now."  Kaiba muttered, forcing himself to sit up.  Swinging his legs over the
side of the bed, he reached for his crutches, which had been placed nearby.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > If something had hit the car like
Atemu said, then there was probably damage.  That meant more work for Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Ummm..."  Atemu glanced over at
Kaiba, then around the number of people who had been hurt.  "All things
considered?  Yeah.  Yeah , I'm alright.  Things could have gone a lot better if
I'd had the foresight to prepare for something like this.  Nobody died though. 
Right?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > "
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

"He finally gets the feeling." Rafael answered nonchalantly. "Amelda didn't
exactly keep a straight face when he helped me stitch Varon up." He quickly
added as an explanation. "Take it as a form of encouragement to stop doing
something stupid."

"Also..." Dishi interrupted meekly as he neared the wound's midpoint. "I only
managed to bring a handful of thread rolls. I might run out of supplies if
restitching would become a constant thing. Unless you have some of course." He
chuckled slightly. "When the time comes when we do run out, I could come up with
some alternatives. But those were yet to be tested on humans. So I'm pretty sure
you are not willing to risk it unless there's no other option."

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@...>
wrote:
>
> "What the hell's so funny?!" Atemu snapped at Varon's back while Yugi arrived.
>
> "Atemu, sit still and be quiet," Yugi chastised him.
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> >
> > "Sorry about that." Dishi mumbled as he pulled back slightly while Varon
gripped Atemu's shoulder and forearm, careful not to brush on the wound.
> >
> > "I should take it from here now, Varon." Rafael said as he approached them,
scowling when he saw Varon trying hard not to laugh. After taking Varon's place,
he made sure to glare holes at the back of the latter's head when he walked away
snickering.
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > >
> > > "Easier said than done," Atemu responded, before wincing slightly and
swearing loudly.  'And just like that, I'm wide awake again,' he mused, almost
grabbing the injury on impulse.
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "Actually, you can now." Dishi said quietly as he pushed the needle
through the edge of the wound and pierced it through the opposite side side.
"Now that Varon-san is here"
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "Do it already."  Atemu prompted.  "I feel like crap and I wanna sleep
it off."
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Of...course..." Dishi said a little worriedly. After cleaning the
wound with the cloth, he worked on removing the old thread. A shadow loomed over
from behind. He stopped and turned towards the new arrival.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Dunno 'ow long until those guys com' back." Varon said as he
crouched down in level with the doctor. "Am 'ere to help, by Raf's orders..." He
said, the last part more to himself.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Well I may need some help in.....securing Atemu-sama" Dishi said,
faltering a bit as he gave Atemu an apologetic look. "In case...you know..."
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Varon grinned as he gave a small, mock salute. "I know. Stitchin's a
pain fer both parties."
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Quit fretting and get on with it already.  Oh, and uh, any
swearing and ranting is not directed at you, so don't worry about it and please
don't take offence."  Atemu responded.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "I have heard that he created Duel Monsters, and you being the
one who beat him. But that was all from the news." Dishi stated. "He kept
pushing me away whenever I tried to help him move on. It got to the point that
he outright refused to see me." Dishi added sadly. "We drifted apart because of
that. We never had much contact until he, Siegfried-San, and the others found
me. And that was after the pandemic struck." He vigorously shook the salt water
bottle before pouring a drop-sized amount on his finger. The scrunched up look
he wore after tasting the sample indicated that the salt water was still potent.
After re-sterilizing his hands, he poured a generous amount of salt water on the
cloth Rafael brought in. "Um... Try not to move too much." He stated, feeling
sympathetic as he brought the cloth close to Atemu's injury. 
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before glancing over to
Pegasus.  "He IS okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how we met him.  He
was trying to collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a result."
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little shocked that
Atemu knew that much. "But he seems fine now." He added He turned to look over
his shoulder, smiling slightly as he watched Pegasus having an almost bubbly
chat with Varon. "But.... After his little.... escapade, I still find it a bit
dodgy to talk to him about.... magic and the like." Noting that Rafael and Yugi
might take their time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized his hands and the
tools he needed in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is going to sting....
But I'm sure you already know that." He added sheepishly, taking out a bottle of
salt water he suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit off?" 
Atemu guessed.
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact that
Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order to
prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous.
Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach.
He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his
office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a
broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one of
the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant
that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled
him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before
he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it was
a panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I saw....
some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He started
quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a deep breath
and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But I know what
I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to meet Atemu's.
"Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are delusional. But please
understand... I am aware that science cannot explain everything.... But... That
does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way they are... I want to
believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply while rubbing his
forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being..... Supposedly dead three
millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus-san, yes. But after his
wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by his loss. He became
so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to help him. But
he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he trailed off, not
knowing how he should continue. 
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact
that Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order
to prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous.
Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach.
He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his
office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a
broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one
of the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant
that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled
him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before
he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it
was a panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I
saw.... some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He
started quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a
deep breath and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But
I know what I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to
meet Atemu's. "Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are
delusional. But please understand... I am aware that science cannot explain
everything.... But... That does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way
they are... I want to believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply
while rubbing his forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being.....
Supposedly dead three millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus,
yes. But after his wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by
his loss. He became so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to
help him. But he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he fell
silent, not sure how he should continue.
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at Atemu. 
"Behave yourself."  Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning Rafael to
follow him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't care if you
think I'm delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and he's not nearly
so polite about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to accept when I can
call out the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the planet, can call
out the Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying, Atemu-sama."
Dishi stated quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away, biting his lip as
he tried to figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple and unoffending
way. Bluntly stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional would surely get
him in a lot of trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to approach the
situation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's voice cut
in. Dishi visibly relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the things he
had asked. There was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears poking out of
his coat pocket, much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice sounded calm. But
the doctor noted the tense and rather apprehensive look on his face. Perhaps he
overheard their conversation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm tone as he
turned to the addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a word with
you, alone?" 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't have to
believe me.  But tell me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying to you?"
Atemu asked.  "Tell you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the Millennium
Items.  You trust him, don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium Items, and my
connection to them.  See what you can find out."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not know what to
say. But he could honestly say that he had heard worse.... From patients with
schizophrenia. But he was not about to say that out loud. Other than that claim,
Atemu showed no other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia. Or perhaps he was
yet to see it. But then again, he also believed that science could not explain
everything. "Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and hard to
believe."  Yugi commented.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was something
Dishi had not expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely confused. 
"You're supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A part time
experience in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his cool when
faced with highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?"  Yugi asked
Atemu quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why not.  I
don't see any reason not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.  "And I
think we owe him the truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his agreement.
Atemu turned back to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if you want.  I
won't hold it against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand years ago, in
Egypt.  My spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to be sent home,
but we lost the means."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost alike." Dishi
said in disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's brother.  Not
biologically I mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure him that he
didn't mean it in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt." Dishi
recalled. "I sense an interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell you where
he got his inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because they're very
closely related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using Yugi's name." 
Atemu glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people were within
earshot.  "Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite something."
Dishi said, wondering whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he shook it off.
Waving his hand, he added. "You have your reasons and I respect that." He
smiled. "Our acquaintance is still new. But I can say that you seem to be decent
people. Helping each other to the point of taking yourselves for granted.." He
glanced at Atemu and Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So whatever reason it
is, I'm sure it is understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times."  Atemu
commented fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu."  Yugi
answered.  "The circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe.  But
Atemu won that title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad, like a
case of fraud or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous gulp,
Dishi quickly hid the Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence was
irking the scariest man he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was
irritate him further. "Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh
when he saw it being played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or
was that you, Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not
up to date when it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is
either one of you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding
the king of games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come on.  Settle
down.  Your head's not gonna feel any better getting in another fight with
Kaiba-kun."  Yugi reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't help it." 
Atemu responded defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave Atemu a
sour look over his shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned, sarcasm
dripping from his voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look, Kaiba. 
It's your best friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi, who had
been watching the exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I could use
some assistance in sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing to the
surgical tools he had placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for
Rafael-San to return, though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He
stated, giving Yugi and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a
way of staying in people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reached into
his satchel, pulling out a fist sized lump of brown cotton with green
appendages.  "I have to be honest. Pegasus-San and I may have been friends but
this is the only thing I know about his game." He held the lump for Yugi and
Atemu to see. "This belonged to my son. He would carry this thing  wherever he
would go,  absolutely refusing to leave it, and wailing if I accidentally forgot
to bring it. I think he calls it Furrybow or..Something like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ----------
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > The brown lump is
a Kuriboh stuffed toy. :)
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not
normally a restless sleeper, no.  Only when something disturbs me.  Like sensing
that bear for example.  I'll wait until you're done if you'd prefer.  To make
sure I don't move about while you're working."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Do you need to
be tied down to rest?"  Yugi asked as he approached the bed.  He'd been with a
party checking to make sure they hadn't missed anyone, and had only just
returned.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "No, I don't." 
Atemu responded.  "I've already quit, honest.  No more trying to help until I'm
better."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Better late
than never."  Yugi remarked, crossing his arms.  "D'you have any idea how much
you've made people worry about you?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well
considering this is your thirty seventh lecture, yes, I believe I do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, you're
not funny, and I'm not kidding around here.  Do you WANT it to get worse?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course I
don't."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Then follow the
doctor's orders!  How many more times?!"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Like I said,
I'm going to behave now.  And I'm sorry I made you worry."  Atemu replied.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed. 
"Look, I know it's just in your nature to watch out for everyone.  But being
reckless is counter productive.  You can't help anyone when you put yourself out
of commission."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I know..." 
Atemu groaned, fed up with lecture.  "I already said I'd behave."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well you said
that every other time, so forgive me for not buying it."  Yugi responded.  "You
were supposed to be resting, and getting knocked out trying to deal with a bear
doesn't count."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Seriously,
Yugi.  I'm honestly just wanting to sleep.  My head hurts, and I'm tired, and I
gotta say I'm finding it increasingly difficult to focus on what you're saying."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi's gaze
softened.  "You had me worried sick."  He finished.  "AGAIN."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "It won't happen
again."  Atemu replied.  "Duellist's honour."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Yugi sighed. 
"Alright.  I'll hold you to that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "You won't be
disappointed."  Atemu assured him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good."  Yugi
looked at Dishi.  "Is there anything I can help you with?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Of course you
can, Atemu-sama" Dishi said eagerly, happy that Atemu was willing to cooperate.
"But I do hope you are not the fidgety type when asleep though. You are not
fidgety when asleep, right?" He added hopefully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu,
hunched down a little in guilt, glanced over at Kaiba sheepishly, before facing
Dishi again.  "I'm kinda tired by the way, and I have a bit of a headache.  Am I
allowed to try sleep that off?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "And I'll
be around to make sure you do." Rafael said sternly, his face scrunching up into
a scowl as the thought of amputation crossed his mind. "Anything else that would
be advised, Doc?" He added, turning to Dishi.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi had
resumed digging in his satchel, pulling out a surgical needle, a roll of nylon
thread, and a pair of forceps before acknowledging Rafael. "Well, an increased
dose of garlic would be good. and right now, I need a bowl of salt water or
vinegar, and a clean cloth to start re-stitching this"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael
gave a wordless nod, shooting Atemu and Kaiba a look that promised impending
doom should they give the doctor any trouble, before leaving to get what was
asked. Before making his way to the door, he approached a zoned out Varon who
was innocently sitting by Amelda's bedside. "Keep an eye on those two for me."
He said, leaving before the latter could respond.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu
winced a little, visualizing such an outcome.  It wasn't that he thought he was
immune to such an ailment, or even that it hadn't occurred to him.  He just got
so caught up in worrying about everyone else that he simply forgot about the
consequences.  With nothing else to occupy himself, he had no choice but to
think about the risks.  And he wasn't sure about how he could cope with one arm.
His archery ability would be straight out the window for one thing, and multi
tasking would be more difficult.  "Okay, okay, I'll take it easy."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well,
I'm sorry to say this, Atemu-sama..." Dishi began, a little hesitant to continue
before he finally mustered up the courage. "But you have no choice but to do
so." He gently grasped Atemu's arm, just below the injury. "If you do not rest,
this could get worse. Consider the possibility of developing sepsis, or even
gangrene. And, as extreme as this sounds, you could lose this limb if the latter
would happen" He added, recalling one patient who developed gangrene from a
maltreated injury.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I
know.  And I'm sorry for making you all worry."  Atemu replied.  "Everyone looks
to me, and that makes me responsible for them.  I just want to keep them safe. 
I've never been one to lead from the rear."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > ---
In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Dishi mumbled a soft 'thank you' before gently laying a hand around the injury.
He undid the bandages and took a careful look, biting his lip upon seeing the
thread snapped in various places, allowing blood to seep through. "This needs to
be re-stitched" He mumbled as he buried his free hand in his satchel.
"Atemu-sama" He added, sounding quite desperate. "You really need to be more
careful. You won't have a quick recovery if you...keep this up" He wanted to say
something along the lines of acting completely irrational. But he decided to
play safe. His self appointed assistant, however, had other plans.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
"In other words, quit ramming yourself into trouble." Rafael snapped, inspecting
Atemu's wound over the doctor's shoulder.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Atemu moved his hand out of the way, to allow Dishi to take a look and show his
permission.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> Dishi stopped the urge to click his tongue as he approached Atemu. "I hope you
don't mind.." He added as he made a move to hold Atemu's arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
>
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > Atemu brought his right hand up over the bandage guiltily.  "I think it's
been like that a while now."  He commented.  He decided not to mention the boxes
in the garage, or being shoved by Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > Rafael snorted as he watched Anzu leave before turning to face Kaiba and
Atemu. "Speaking of Atemu's options..." He made sure to keep his eyes glued to
Atemu's before continuing. "I don't think he'll have the option of getting up
and moving around whenever he wants as you put it, Kaiba." His gaze moved to the
former Pharaoh's arm. "He just burst his stitches, judging from the blood stain
there."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey" <ygoluver@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > Anzu nodded, glanced quickly at Kaiba, and went to see if she could help
someone else.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > Kaiba regarded Anzu silently, irritated by her presence.  He still
didn't have much time for the girl, but right now he was more annoyed at himself
for not noticing her sooner.  The whole situation was infuriating, and he was
quickly growing tired of it.  The first chance he had, he was making a break for
it, crutches or no crutches.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > "No, not really."  Atemu responded with a small shake of his head.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Jessica Stailey"
<ygoluver@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Anzu, who had been standing close by for a few minutes, silently
listened to Atemu and Kaiba before deciding to finally make her presence known.
"Is there anything I can get you Atemu?"  She asked.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "That's easy for you to say."  Kaiba grumbled.  "You have the
option of getting up and moving around a bit when you want...  I can't without
crutches.  I need something to do."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "And I didn't?"  Atemu asked, raising an eyebrow.  "Kaiba,
take it from me, just listen to the doctor.  The grief for not doing so isn't
worth it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom"
<chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "But I have responsibilities."  Kaiba insisted.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > Atemu glanced down at his arm, then looked up smirking. 
"I'm sitting in here with a concussion for not taking it easy when I was told
to.  Do you REALLY want to follow my example and ignore their advice?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "Possibly."  Kaiba shrugged.  "I don't know."  He
cleared his throat.  "But I don't have time to be like this.  There's so much to
be done.  I'm supposed to be taking care of things, so you can rest and
recover."  He looked pointedly at Atemu's bandaged arm.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu had removed his jacket, and was examining the
bandage around his arm, noting the blood soaking through in silence, before
glancing up.  "I noticed something was bothering you in the garage yesterday. 
Is it the same thing?"  He asked Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "It's...just a cough."  Kaiba forced out, though he
was shocked himself.  When the attack finally died down, he was left breathless,
feeling weak and shaky.  He dropped back down to sit on his bed, giving up on
getting his crutches from Rafael.  Instead, he focussed on trying to breath
properly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael looked taken aback the moment Kaiba
coughed. From what he was aware of, Kaiba suffered from physical injuries. Not a
disease. Apparently, he was not the only one who was shocked.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Kaiba-sama" Dishi said half heartedly, taking one
small step towards �Kaiba. �The man has a sprained ankle and just got
himself a cough, yet he still refused to back down. He's the very definition of
pigheaded. Dishi had to suppress a whine. "That sounds serious. You can't leave
in that state."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@yahoo groups.co.uk,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Then give me back my god damn crutches!"  Kaiba
practically bellowed, now completely losing his temper.  He didn't like how
Rafael had advanced on him like that, but he wasn't about to back down.  He'd
never backed down from anything, and he had no intentions of starting now.  But
his chest was starting to burn and his eyes were watering, only adding to his
anger.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Finally, he couldn't hold it in any longer, and
turned away with a painful sounding cough.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi looked like he was going to pass out
upon seeing Kaiba up on his feet. He gave Rafael a torn look. Part of him wanted
to let Kaiba have his way. But another part knew that if Kaiba continued to push
it, he's never going to get any better. Considering his recklessness, he could
get worse. And he didn't even want to think of the consequences should that
happen. He shrunk back, knowing that a lot of people were looking at them, and
prayed that Kaiba would sprout at least a tinge of common sense.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael, however, kept his ground. Seeing Kaiba
up just made him want to push him back down and tie him to the bed. He growled
lowly as he took a step towards Kaiba. �"Are you really that much of an
idiot?" He almost snarled. "Everyone with half a brain knows that you shouldn't
even try to work in that condition." He added, giving a pointed look at Kaiba's
ankle. "But they are afraid of the combined force of your wrath and stupidity."
He glanced at Dishi before resuming his gaze on Kaiba, his tone becoming
stronger. "I may not be an expert in medicine. But I know that if you continue
being stupid, you'd get worse."�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared hatefully and stood up, forcing
his ankle to take his weight.  Rafael didn't phase him in the slightest.  It
would take a lot more than that to intimidate Seto Kaiba.  "I've heard enough. 
As head of security, I demand that you return those to me.  If not, I'll simply
walk without them, and then you'll be held responsible for any lasting damage. 
Now hand them over!"  Kaiba's tone sounded convincing enough, but his head was
spinning and the urge to cough was starting to make his eyes water.  Just what
the hell was going on?  Kaiba clenched his fists angrily.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael nodded at Atemu, giving him a small
smile before turning to Kaiba, his expression morphing from soft to rock hard
and intimidating, not at all affected by Kaiba's words. "Really?" He crossed his
arms, tucking the crutches behind him, and stood tall. "So who has the right to
take these away?" He added sarcastically, holding the crutches for Kaiba to see.
�"Then again, you have no right to walk around with that injury, so we're on a
stalemate"�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Shannon" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba glared up at Rafael.  "Give those
back right now, or you'll be sorry."  He said in a warning tone.  He pointed at
the crutches.  "You have no right to take them."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu shifted on the bed again, to sit
with his back to the headboard, hiding a wince at the strain on his arm. 
"Better?"  He asked, looking at Rafael.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Rafael quirked a brow. Judging from
the look on Dishi's face, he didn't want Kaiba to get up just yet. With a slight
sigh, he took the crutches away from Kaiba's reach. "You need to rest." He said
with finality. From the corner of his eye, he could see Dishi mouthing a thank
you. "And that goes for you as well..." He added, looking at Atemu.�
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Shannon" <chidori_blossom.23792@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think we'd have heard about it
by now."  Kaiba muttered, forcing himself to sit up.  Swinging his legs over the
side of the bed, he reached for his crutches, which had been placed nearby.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > If something had hit the car like
Atemu said, then there was probably damage.  That meant more work for Kaiba.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Ummm..."  Atemu glanced over at
Kaiba, then around the number of people who had been hurt.  "All things
considered?  Yeah.  Yeah , I'm alright.  Things could have gone a lot better if
I'd had the foresight to prepare for something like this.  Nobody died though. 
Right?"
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > "
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > >
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

"Again, I said I'd behave," Atemu pointed out.  "Does my word really hold that
little worth that you all doubt it?"



--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@...> wrote:
>
> "He finally gets the feeling." Rafael answered nonchalantly. "Amelda didn't
exactly keep a straight face when he helped me stitch Varon up." He quickly
added as an explanation. "Take it as a form of encouragement to stop doing
something stupid."
>
> "Also..." Dishi interrupted meekly as he neared the wound's midpoint. "I only
managed to bring a handful of thread rolls. I might run out of supplies if
restitching would become a constant thing. Unless you have some of course." He
chuckled slightly. "When the time comes when we do run out, I could come up with
some alternatives. But those were yet to be tested on humans. So I'm pretty sure
you are not willing to risk it unless there's no other option."
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> >
> > "What the hell's so funny?!" Atemu snapped at Varon's back while Yugi
arrived.
> >
> > "Atemu, sit still and be quiet," Yugi chastised him.
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > >
> > > "Sorry about that." Dishi mumbled as he pulled back slightly while Varon
gripped Atemu's shoulder and forearm, careful not to brush on the wound.
> > >
> > > "I should take it from here now, Varon." Rafael said as he approached
them, scowling when he saw Varon trying hard not to laugh. After taking Varon's
place, he made sure to glare holes at the back of the latter's head when he
walked away snickering.
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "Easier said than done," Atemu responded, before wincing slightly and
swearing loudly.  'And just like that, I'm wide awake again,' he mused, almost
grabbing the injury on impulse.
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "Actually, you can now." Dishi said quietly as he pushed the needle
through the edge of the wound and pierced it through the opposite side side.
"Now that Varon-san is here"
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Do it already."  Atemu prompted.  "I feel like crap and I wanna
sleep it off."
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Of...course..." Dishi said a little worriedly. After cleaning the
wound with the cloth, he worked on removing the old thread. A shadow loomed over
from behind. He stopped and turned towards the new arrival.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Dunno 'ow long until those guys com' back." Varon said as he
crouched down in level with the doctor. "Am 'ere to help, by Raf's orders..." He
said, the last part more to himself.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Well I may need some help in.....securing Atemu-sama" Dishi said,
faltering a bit as he gave Atemu an apologetic look. "In case...you know..."
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > Varon grinned as he gave a small, mock salute. "I know. Stitchin's
a pain fer both parties."
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Quit fretting and get on with it already.  Oh, and uh, any
swearing and ranting is not directed at you, so don't worry about it and please
don't take offence."  Atemu responded.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "I have heard that he created Duel Monsters, and you being the
one who beat him. But that was all from the news." Dishi stated. "He kept
pushing me away whenever I tried to help him move on. It got to the point that
he outright refused to see me." Dishi added sadly. "We drifted apart because of
that. We never had much contact until he, Siegfried-San, and the others found
me. And that was after the pandemic struck." He vigorously shook the salt water
bottle before pouring a drop-sized amount on his finger. The scrunched up look
he wore after tasting the sample indicated that the salt water was still potent.
After re-sterilizing his hands, he poured a generous amount of salt water on the
cloth Rafael brought in. "Um... Try not to move too much." He stated, feeling
sympathetic as he brought the cloth close to Atemu's injury. 
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before glancing over
to Pegasus.  "He IS okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how we met him. 
He was trying to collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a result."
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little shocked that
Atemu knew that much. "But he seems fine now." He added He turned to look over
his shoulder, smiling slightly as he watched Pegasus having an almost bubbly
chat with Varon. "But.... After his little.... escapade, I still find it a bit
dodgy to talk to him about.... magic and the like." Noting that Rafael and Yugi
might take their time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized his hands and the
tools he needed in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is going to sting....
But I'm sure you already know that." He added sheepishly, taking out a bottle of
salt water he suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit off?" 
Atemu guessed.
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact
that Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order
to prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous.
Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach.
He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his
office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a
broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near one
of the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it meant
that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light baffled
him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter before
he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it
was a panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I
saw.... some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He
started quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a
deep breath and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But
I know what I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to
meet Atemu's. "Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are
delusional. But please understand... I am aware that science cannot explain
everything.... But... That does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way
they are... I want to believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply
while rubbing his forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being.....
Supposedly dead three millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust
Pegasus-san, yes. But after his wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was
devasted by his loss. He became so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I
wanted to help him. But he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as
he trailed off, not knowing how he should continue. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact
that Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order
to prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous.
Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach.
He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his
office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a
broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near
one of the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it
meant that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light
baffled him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter
before he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it
was a panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I
saw.... some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He
started quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a
deep breath and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But
I know what I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to
meet Atemu's. "Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are
delusional. But please understand... I am aware that science cannot explain
everything.... But... That does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way
they are... I want to believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply
while rubbing his forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being.....
Supposedly dead three millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus,
yes. But after his wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by
his loss. He became so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to
help him. But he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he fell
silent, not sure how he should continue.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at Atemu. 
"Behave yourself."  Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning Rafael to
follow him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't care if you
think I'm delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and he's not nearly
so polite about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to accept when I can
call out the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the planet, can call
out the Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying, Atemu-sama."
Dishi stated quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away, biting his lip as
he tried to figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple and unoffending
way. Bluntly stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional would surely get
him in a lot of trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to approach the
situation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's voice cut
in. Dishi visibly relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the things he
had asked. There was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears poking out of
his coat pocket, much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice sounded calm. But
the doctor noted the tense and rather apprehensive look on his face. Perhaps he
overheard their conversation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm tone as he
turned to the addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a word with
you, alone?" 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't have to
believe me.  But tell me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying to you?"
Atemu asked.  "Tell you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the Millennium
Items.  You trust him, don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium Items, and my
connection to them.  See what you can find out."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not know what
to say. But he could honestly say that he had heard worse.... From patients with
schizophrenia. But he was not about to say that out loud. Other than that claim,
Atemu showed no other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia. Or perhaps he was
yet to see it. But then again, he also believed that science could not explain
everything. "Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and hard to
believe."  Yugi commented.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was something
Dishi had not expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely confused. 
"You're supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A part time
experience in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his cool when
faced with highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?"  Yugi
asked Atemu quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why not.  I
don't see any reason not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.  "And I
think we owe him the truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his agreement.
Atemu turned back to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if you want.  I
won't hold it against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand years ago, in
Egypt.  My spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to be sent home,
but we lost the means."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost alike."
Dishi said in disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's brother. 
Not biologically I mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure him that
he didn't mean it in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt." Dishi
recalled. "I sense an interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell you
where he got his inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because they're
very closely related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using Yugi's
name."  Atemu glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people were
within earshot.  "Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite something."
Dishi said, wondering whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he shook it off.
Waving his hand, he added. "You have your reasons and I respect that." He
smiled. "Our acquaintance is still new. But I can say that you seem to be decent
people. Helping each other to the point of taking yourselves for granted.." He
glanced at Atemu and Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So whatever reason it
is, I'm sure it is understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times."  Atemu
commented fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu."  Yugi
answered.  "The circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe.  But
Atemu won that title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad, like a
case of fraud or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous gulp,
Dishi quickly hid the Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence was
irking the scariest man he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was
irritate him further. "Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh
when he saw it being played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or
was that you, Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not
up to date when it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is
either one of you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding
the king of games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come on. 
Settle down.  Your head's not gonna feel any better getting in another fight
with Kaiba-kun."  Yugi reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't help it." 
Atemu responded defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave Atemu a
sour look over his shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned, sarcasm
dripping from his voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look, Kaiba. 
It's your best friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi, who had
been watching the exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I could use
some assistance in sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing to the
surgical tools he had placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for
Rafael-San to return, though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He
stated, giving Yugi and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a
way of staying in people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reach

"Just to make sure that it gets through your thick head since once was obviously
not enough" Rafael stated sternly with a hint of concern and a
'as-if-you-took-it-seriously-before' kind of tone. "Not that the threat to your
limb isn't enough already"

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@...>
wrote:
>
> "Again, I said I'd behave," Atemu pointed out.  "Does my word really hold that
little worth that you all doubt it?"
>
>
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> >
> > "He finally gets the feeling." Rafael answered nonchalantly. "Amelda didn't
exactly keep a straight face when he helped me stitch Varon up." He quickly
added as an explanation. "Take it as a form of encouragement to stop doing
something stupid."
> >
> > "Also..." Dishi interrupted meekly as he neared the wound's midpoint. "I
only managed to bring a handful of thread rolls. I might run out of supplies if
restitching would become a constant thing. Unless you have some of course." He
chuckled slightly. "When the time comes when we do run out, I could come up with
some alternatives. But those were yet to be tested on humans. So I'm pretty sure
you are not willing to risk it unless there's no other option."
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > >
> > > "What the hell's so funny?!" Atemu snapped at Varon's back while Yugi
arrived.
> > >
> > > "Atemu, sit still and be quiet," Yugi chastised him.
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "Sorry about that." Dishi mumbled as he pulled back slightly while Varon
gripped Atemu's shoulder and forearm, careful not to brush on the wound.
> > > >
> > > > "I should take it from here now, Varon." Rafael said as he approached
them, scowling when he saw Varon trying hard not to laugh. After taking Varon's
place, he made sure to glare holes at the back of the latter's head when he
walked away snickering.
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "Easier said than done," Atemu responded, before wincing slightly and
swearing loudly.  'And just like that, I'm wide awake again,' he mused, almost
grabbing the injury on impulse.
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Actually, you can now." Dishi said quietly as he pushed the needle
through the edge of the wound and pierced it through the opposite side side.
"Now that Varon-san is here"
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Do it already."  Atemu prompted.  "I feel like crap and I wanna
sleep it off."
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Of...course..." Dishi said a little worriedly. After cleaning
the wound with the cloth, he worked on removing the old thread. A shadow loomed
over from behind. He stopped and turned towards the new arrival.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Dunno 'ow long until those guys com' back." Varon said as he
crouched down in level with the doctor. "Am 'ere to help, by Raf's orders..." He
said, the last part more to himself.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Well I may need some help in.....securing Atemu-sama" Dishi
said, faltering a bit as he gave Atemu an apologetic look. "In case...you
know..."
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > Varon grinned as he gave a small, mock salute. "I know.
Stitchin's a pain fer both parties."
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Quit fretting and get on with it already.  Oh, and uh, any
swearing and ranting is not directed at you, so don't worry about it and please
don't take offence."  Atemu responded.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "I have heard that he created Duel Monsters, and you being
the one who beat him. But that was all from the news." Dishi stated. "He kept
pushing me away whenever I tried to help him move on. It got to the point that
he outright refused to see me." Dishi added sadly. "We drifted apart because of
that. We never had much contact until he, Siegfried-San, and the others found
me. And that was after the pandemic struck." He vigorously shook the salt water
bottle before pouring a drop-sized amount on his finger. The scrunched up look
he wore after tasting the sample indicated that the salt water was still potent.
After re-sterilizing his hands, he poured a generous amount of salt water on the
cloth Rafael brought in. "Um... Try not to move too much." He stated, feeling
sympathetic as he brought the cloth close to Atemu's injury. 
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before glancing
over to Pegasus.  "He IS okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how we met
him.  He was trying to collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a result."
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little shocked that
Atemu knew that much. "But he seems fine now." He added He turned to look over
his shoulder, smiling slightly as he watched Pegasus having an almost bubbly
chat with Varon. "But.... After his little.... escapade, I still find it a bit
dodgy to talk to him about.... magic and the like." Noting that Rafael and Yugi
might take their time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized his hands and the
tools he needed in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is going to sting....
But I'm sure you already know that." He added sheepishly, taking out a bottle of
salt water he suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit off?" 
Atemu guessed.
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact
that Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order
to prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous.
Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach.
He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his
office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a
broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near
one of the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it
meant that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light
baffled him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter
before he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that it
was a panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I
saw.... some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He
started quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a
deep breath and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But
I know what I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to
meet Atemu's. "Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are
delusional. But please understand... I am aware that science cannot explain
everything.... But... That does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way
they are... I want to believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply
while rubbing his forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being.....
Supposedly dead three millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust
Pegasus-san, yes. But after his wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was
devasted by his loss. He became so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I
wanted to help him. But he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as
he trailed off, not knowing how he should continue. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact
that Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order
to prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous.
Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach.
He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his
office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a
broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near
one of the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it
meant that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light
baffled him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter
before he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that
it was a panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I
saw.... some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He
started quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a
deep breath and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But
I know what I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to
meet Atemu's. "Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are
delusional. But please understand... I am aware that science cannot explain
everything.... But... That does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way
they are... I want to believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply
while rubbing his forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being.....
Supposedly dead three millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus,
yes. But after his wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by
his loss. He became so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to
help him. But he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he fell
silent, not sure how he should continue.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at
Atemu.  "Behave yourself."  Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning
Rafael to follow him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't care if
you think I'm delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and he's not
nearly so polite about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to accept when
I can call out the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the planet, can
call out the Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying,
Atemu-sama." Dishi stated quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away,
biting his lip as he tried to figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple
and unoffending way. Bluntly stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional
would surely get him in a lot of trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to
approach the situation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's voice
cut in. Dishi visibly relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the
things he had asked. There was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears
poking out of his coat pocket, much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice
sounded calm. But the doctor noted the tense and rather apprehensive look on his
face. Perhaps he overheard their conversation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm tone as
he turned to the addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a word
with you, alone?" 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't have to
believe me.  But tell me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying to you?"
Atemu asked.  "Tell you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the Millennium
Items.  You trust him, don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium Items, and my
connection to them.  See what you can find out."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not know
what to say. But he could honestly say that he had heard worse.... From patients
with schizophrenia. But he was not about to say that out loud. Other than that
claim, Atemu showed no other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia. Or perhaps
he was yet to see it. But then again, he also believed that science could not
explain everything. "Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and hard
to believe."  Yugi commented.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was something
Dishi had not expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely confused. 
"You're supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A part time
experience in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his cool when
faced with highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?"  Yugi
asked Atemu quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why not.  I
don't see any reason not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.  "And I
think we owe him the truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his agreement.
Atemu turned back to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if you want.  I
won't hold it against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand years ago, in
Egypt.  My spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to be sent home,
but we lost the means."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost alike."
Dishi said in disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's brother. 
Not biologically I mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure him that
he didn't mean it in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt." Dishi
recalled. "I sense an interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell you
where he got his inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because they're
very closely related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using Yugi's
name."  Atemu glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people were
within earshot.  "Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite something."
Dishi said, wondering whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he shook it off.
Waving his hand, he added. "You have your reasons and I respect that." He
smiled. "Our acquaintance is still new. But I can say that you seem to be decent
people. Helping each other to the point of taking yourselves for granted.." He
glanced at Atemu and Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So whatever reason it
is, I'm sure it is understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times."  Atemu
commented fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu."  Yugi
answered.  "The circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe.  But
Atemu won that title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad, like a
case of fraud or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous gulp,
Dishi quickly hid the Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence was
irking the scariest man he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was
irritate him further. "Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh
when he saw it being played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or
was that you, Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not
up to date when it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is
either one of you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding
the king of games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come on. 
Settle down.  Your head's not gonna feel any better getting in another fight
with Kaiba-kun."  Yugi reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't help
it."  Atemu responded defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave Atemu a
sour look over his shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned, sarcasm
dripping from his voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look,
Kaiba.  It's your best friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi, who had
been watching the exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I could use
some assistance in sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing to the
surgical tools he had placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for
Rafael-San to return, though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He
stated, giving Yugi and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a
way of staying in people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reach
>

"Okay, I swear on the feather of Ma'at that I really will take it easy until the
doctor says I'm fit to work again.  And if I'm lying, may my heart be devoured
by Ammut.  Will that do?" Atemu asked Rafael.




--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@...> wrote:
>
> "Just to make sure that it gets through your thick head since once was
obviously not enough" Rafael stated sternly with a hint of concern and a
'as-if-you-took-it-seriously-before' kind of tone. "Not that the threat to your
limb isn't enough already"
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> >
> > "Again, I said I'd behave," Atemu pointed out.  "Does my word really hold
that little worth that you all doubt it?"
> >
> >
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > >
> > > "He finally gets the feeling." Rafael answered nonchalantly. "Amelda
didn't exactly keep a straight face when he helped me stitch Varon up." He
quickly added as an explanation. "Take it as a form of encouragement to stop
doing something stupid."
> > >
> > > "Also..." Dishi interrupted meekly as he neared the wound's midpoint. "I
only managed to bring a handful of thread rolls. I might run out of supplies if
restitching would become a constant thing. Unless you have some of course." He
chuckled slightly. "When the time comes when we do run out, I could come up with
some alternatives. But those were yet to be tested on humans. So I'm pretty sure
you are not willing to risk it unless there's no other option."
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "What the hell's so funny?!" Atemu snapped at Varon's back while Yugi
arrived.
> > > >
> > > > "Atemu, sit still and be quiet," Yugi chastised him.
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "Sorry about that." Dishi mumbled as he pulled back slightly while
Varon gripped Atemu's shoulder and forearm, careful not to brush on the wound.
> > > > >
> > > > > "I should take it from here now, Varon." Rafael said as he approached
them, scowling when he saw Varon trying hard not to laugh. After taking Varon's
place, he made sure to glare holes at the back of the latter's head when he
walked away snickering.
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Easier said than done," Atemu responded, before wincing slightly
and swearing loudly.  'And just like that, I'm wide awake again,' he mused,
almost grabbing the injury on impulse.
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Actually, you can now." Dishi said quietly as he pushed the
needle through the edge of the wound and pierced it through the opposite side
side. "Now that Varon-san is here"
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Do it already."  Atemu prompted.  "I feel like crap and I wanna
sleep it off."
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Of...course..." Dishi said a little worriedly. After cleaning
the wound with the cloth, he worked on removing the old thread. A shadow loomed
over from behind. He stopped and turned towards the new arrival.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Dunno 'ow long until those guys com' back." Varon said as he
crouched down in level with the doctor. "Am 'ere to help, by Raf's orders..." He
said, the last part more to himself.
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Well I may need some help in.....securing Atemu-sama" Dishi
said, faltering a bit as he gave Atemu an apologetic look. "In case...you
know..."
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > Varon grinned as he gave a small, mock salute. "I know.
Stitchin's a pain fer both parties."
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Quit fretting and get on with it already.  Oh, and uh, any
swearing and ranting is not directed at you, so don't worry about it and please
don't take offence."  Atemu responded.
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "I have heard that he created Duel Monsters, and you being
the one who beat him. But that was all from the news." Dishi stated. "He kept
pushing me away whenever I tried to help him move on. It got to the point that
he outright refused to see me." Dishi added sadly. "We drifted apart because of
that. We never had much contact until he, Siegfried-San, and the others found
me. And that was after the pandemic struck." He vigorously shook the salt water
bottle before pouring a drop-sized amount on his finger. The scrunched up look
he wore after tasting the sample indicated that the salt water was still potent.
After re-sterilizing his hands, he poured a generous amount of salt water on the
cloth Rafael brought in. "Um... Try not to move too much." He stated, feeling
sympathetic as he brought the cloth close to Atemu's injury. 
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before glancing
over to Pegasus.  "He IS okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how we met
him.  He was trying to collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a result."
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little shocked
that Atemu knew that much. "But he seems fine now." He added He turned to look
over his shoulder, smiling slightly as he watched Pegasus having an almost
bubbly chat with Varon. "But.... After his little.... escapade, I still find it
a bit dodgy to talk to him about.... magic and the like." Noting that Rafael and
Yugi might take their time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized his hands and
the tools he needed in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is going to
sting.... But I'm sure you already know that." He added sheepishly, taking out a
bottle of salt water he suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit
off?"  Atemu guessed.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the fact
that Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in order
to prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was nervous.
Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear breach.
He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out of his
office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was unfortunately a
broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of people were
converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found difficult to
explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light near
one of the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at it
meant that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light
baffled him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter
before he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that
it was a panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I
saw.... some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He
started quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a
deep breath and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But
I know what I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to
meet Atemu's. "Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are
delusional. But please understand... I am aware that science cannot explain
everything.... But... That does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way
they are... I want to believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply
while rubbing his forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being.....
Supposedly dead three millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust
Pegasus-san, yes. But after his wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was
devasted by his loss. He became so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I
wanted to help him. But he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as
he trailed off, not knowing how he should continue. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the
fact that Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in
order to prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was
nervous. Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear
breach. He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out
of his office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was
unfortunately a broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of
people were converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found
difficult to explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light
near one of the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at
it meant that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light
baffled him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter
before he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that
it was a panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I
saw.... some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He
started quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a
deep breath and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But
I know what I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to
meet Atemu's. "Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are
delusional. But please understand... I am aware that science cannot explain
everything.... But... That does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way
they are... I want to believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply
while rubbing his forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being.....
Supposedly dead three millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust Pegasus,
yes. But after his wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was devasted by
his loss. He became so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I wanted to
help him. But he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as he fell
silent, not sure how he should continue.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at
Atemu.  "Behave yourself."  Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning
Rafael to follow him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't care if
you think I'm delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and he's not
nearly so polite about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to accept when
I can call out the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the planet, can
call out the Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying,
Atemu-sama." Dishi stated quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away,
biting his lip as he tried to figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple
and unoffending way. Bluntly stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional
would surely get him in a lot of trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to
approach the situation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's voice
cut in. Dishi visibly relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the
things he had asked. There was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears
poking out of his coat pocket, much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice
sounded calm. But the doctor noted the tense and rather apprehensive look on his
face. Perhaps he overheard their conversation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm tone
as he turned to the addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a word
with you, alone?" 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't have
to believe me.  But tell me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying to
you?"  Atemu asked.  "Tell you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the
Millennium Items.  You trust him, don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium
Items, and my connection to them.  See what you can find out."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not know
what to say. But he could honestly say that he had heard worse.... From patients
with schizophrenia. But he was not about to say that out loud. Other than that
claim, Atemu showed no other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia. Or perhaps
he was yet to see it. But then again, he also believed that science could not
explain everything. "Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and hard
to believe."  Yugi commented.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was
something Dishi had not expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely
confused.  "You're supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A
part time experience in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his
cool when faced with highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?"  Yugi
asked Atemu quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why not. 
I don't see any reason not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.  "And
I think we owe him the truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his
agreement.  Atemu turned back to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if
you want.  I won't hold it against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand
years ago, in Egypt.  My spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to
be sent home, but we lost the means."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost alike."
Dishi said in disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's
brother.  Not biologically I mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure
him that he didn't mean it in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt."
Dishi recalled. "I sense an interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell you
where he got his inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because they're
very closely related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using Yugi's
name."  Atemu glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people were
within earshot.  "Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite
something." Dishi said, wondering whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he
shook it off. Waving his hand, he added. "You have your reasons and I respect
that." He smiled. "Our acquaintance is still new. But I can say that you seem to
be decent people. Helping each other to the point of taking yourselves for
granted.." He glanced at Atemu and Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So
whatever reason it is, I'm sure it is understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times."  Atemu
commented fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu."  Yugi
answered.  "The circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe.  But
Atemu won that title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad, like a
case of fraud or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous
gulp, Dishi quickly hid the Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence
was irking the scariest man he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was
irritate him further. "Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh
when he saw it being played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or
was that you, Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not
up to date when it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is
either one of you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding
the king of games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come on. 
Settle down.  Your head's not gonna feel any better getting in another fight
with Kaiba-kun."  Yugi reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't help
it."  Atemu responded defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave Atemu
a sour look over his shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned,
sarcasm dripping from his voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look,
Kaiba.  It's your best friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi, who
had been watching the exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I could
use some assistance in sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing to the
surgical tools he had placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for
Rafael-San to return, though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He
stated, giving Yugi and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a
way of staying in people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reach
> >
>

"I guess." Rafael said with a smirk. "But I'm still keeping an eye on you." He
focused his attention on Dishi, quirking an eyebrow when the latter looked like
he wanted to say something, but ended up mustering a fish impression. "You
alright, Doc?"

"....yes yes." Dishi said quickly as he tightened the knot on the final stitch.
He had forgotten about what Atemu told him, about being Pharaoh and all, until
then. It made him concerned. "All done." He said as he pulled back and cut the
end of the thread. After cleaning the wound, he reached for the clean bandage
set up behind him, dipping a patch in honey before wrapping it around the
stitched injury.

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@...>
wrote:
>
> "Okay, I swear on the feather of Ma'at that I really will take it easy until
the doctor says I'm fit to work again.  And if I'm lying, may my heart be
devoured by Ammut.  Will that do?" Atemu asked Rafael.
>
>
>
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> >
> > "Just to make sure that it gets through your thick head since once was
obviously not enough" Rafael stated sternly with a hint of concern and a
'as-if-you-took-it-seriously-before' kind of tone. "Not that the threat to your
limb isn't enough already"
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > >
> > > "Again, I said I'd behave," Atemu pointed out.  "Does my word really hold
that little worth that you all doubt it?"
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "He finally gets the feeling." Rafael answered nonchalantly. "Amelda
didn't exactly keep a straight face when he helped me stitch Varon up." He
quickly added as an explanation. "Take it as a form of encouragement to stop
doing something stupid."
> > > >
> > > > "Also..." Dishi interrupted meekly as he neared the wound's midpoint. "I
only managed to bring a handful of thread rolls. I might run out of supplies if
restitching would become a constant thing. Unless you have some of course." He
chuckled slightly. "When the time comes when we do run out, I could come up with
some alternatives. But those were yet to be tested on humans. So I'm pretty sure
you are not willing to risk it unless there's no other option."
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "What the hell's so funny?!" Atemu snapped at Varon's back while Yugi
arrived.
> > > > >
> > > > > "Atemu, sit still and be quiet," Yugi chastised him.
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Sorry about that." Dishi mumbled as he pulled back slightly while
Varon gripped Atemu's shoulder and forearm, careful not to brush on the wound.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "I should take it from here now, Varon." Rafael said as he
approached them, scowling when he saw Varon trying hard not to laugh. After
taking Varon's place, he made sure to glare holes at the back of the latter's
head when he walked away snickering.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Easier said than done," Atemu responded, before wincing slightly
and swearing loudly.  'And just like that, I'm wide awake again,' he mused,
almost grabbing the injury on impulse.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Actually, you can now." Dishi said quietly as he pushed the
needle through the edge of the wound and pierced it through the opposite side
side. "Now that Varon-san is here"
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Do it already."  Atemu prompted.  "I feel like crap and I
wanna sleep it off."
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Of...course..." Dishi said a little worriedly. After
cleaning the wound with the cloth, he worked on removing the old thread. A
shadow loomed over from behind. He stopped and turned towards the new arrival.
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Dunno 'ow long until those guys com' back." Varon said as
he crouched down in level with the doctor. "Am 'ere to help, by Raf's orders..."
He said, the last part more to himself.
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Well I may need some help in.....securing Atemu-sama" Dishi
said, faltering a bit as he gave Atemu an apologetic look. "In case...you
know..."
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > Varon grinned as he gave a small, mock salute. "I know.
Stitchin's a pain fer both parties."
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Quit fretting and get on with it already.  Oh, and uh,
any swearing and ranting is not directed at you, so don't worry about it and
please don't take offence."  Atemu responded.
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "I have heard that he created Duel Monsters, and you
being the one who beat him. But that was all from the news." Dishi stated. "He
kept pushing me away whenever I tried to help him move on. It got to the point
that he outright refused to see me." Dishi added sadly. "We drifted apart
because of that. We never had much contact until he, Siegfried-San, and the
others found me. And that was after the pandemic struck." He vigorously shook
the salt water bottle before pouring a drop-sized amount on his finger. The
scrunched up look he wore after tasting the sample indicated that the salt water
was still potent. After re-sterilizing his hands, he poured a generous amount of
salt water on the cloth Rafael brought in. "Um... Try not to move too much." He
stated, feeling sympathetic as he brought the cloth close to Atemu's injury. 
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before glancing
over to Pegasus.  "He IS okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how we met
him.  He was trying to collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a result."
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little shocked
that Atemu knew that much. "But he seems fine now." He added He turned to look
over his shoulder, smiling slightly as he watched Pegasus having an almost
bubbly chat with Varon. "But.... After his little.... escapade, I still find it
a bit dodgy to talk to him about.... magic and the like." Noting that Rafael and
Yugi might take their time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized his hands and
the tools he needed in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is going to
sting.... But I'm sure you already know that." He added sheepishly, taking out a
bottle of salt water he suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit
off?"  Atemu guessed.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the
fact that Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in
order to prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was
nervous. Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear
breach. He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out
of his office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was
unfortunately a broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of
people were converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found
difficult to explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light
near one of the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at
it meant that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light
baffled him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter
before he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking that
it was a panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was wrong. "I
saw.... some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone believe." He
started quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He drew in a
deep breath and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just imagined it. But
I know what I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he forced his eyes to
meet Atemu's. "Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that you are
delusional. But please understand... I am aware that science cannot explain
everything.... But... That does not mean I can easily.. accept things the way
they are... I want to believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed deeply
while rubbing his forehead. "And what you just told me. About you being.....
Supposedly dead three millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust
Pegasus-san, yes. But after his wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was
devasted by his loss. He became so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I
wanted to help him. But he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as
he trailed off, not knowing how he should continue. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the
fact that Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in
order to prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was
nervous. Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear
breach. He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out
of his office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was
unfortunately a broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of
people were converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found
difficult to explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light
near one of the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at
it meant that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light
baffled him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter
before he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking
that it was a panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was
wrong. "I saw.... some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone
believe." He started quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He
drew in a deep breath and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just
imagined it. But I know what I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he
forced his eyes to meet Atemu's. "Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that
you are delusional. But please understand... I am aware that science cannot
explain everything.... But... That does not mean I can easily.. accept things
the way they are... I want to believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed
deeply while rubbing his forehead. "And what you just told me. About you
being..... Supposedly dead three millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust
Pegasus, yes. But after his wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was
devasted by his loss. He became so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I
wanted to help him. But he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as
he fell silent, not sure how he should continue.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at
Atemu.  "Behave yourself."  Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning
Rafael to follow him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't care
if you think I'm delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and he's not
nearly so polite about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to accept when
I can call out the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the planet, can
call out the Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying,
Atemu-sama." Dishi stated quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away,
biting his lip as he tried to figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple
and unoffending way. Bluntly stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional
would surely get him in a lot of trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to
approach the situation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's
voice cut in. Dishi visibly relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the
things he had asked. There was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears
poking out of his coat pocket, much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice
sounded calm. But the doctor noted the tense and rather apprehensive look on his
face. Perhaps he overheard their conversation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm tone
as he turned to the addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a word
with you, alone?" 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't
have to believe me.  But tell me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying
to you?"  Atemu asked.  "Tell you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the
Millennium Items.  You trust him, don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium
Items, and my connection to them.  See what you can find out."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not know
what to say. But he could honestly say that he had heard worse.... From patients
with schizophrenia. But he was not about to say that out loud. Other than that
claim, Atemu showed no other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia. Or perhaps
he was yet to see it. But then again, he also believed that science could not
explain everything. "Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and
hard to believe."  Yugi commented.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was
something Dishi had not expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely
confused.  "You're supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A
part time experience in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his
cool when faced with highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?" 
Yugi asked Atemu quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why not.
I don't see any reason not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.  "And
I think we owe him the truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his
agreement.  Atemu turned back to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if
you want.  I won't hold it against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand
years ago, in Egypt.  My spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to
be sent home, but we lost the means."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost
alike." Dishi said in disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's
brother.  Not biologically I mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure
him that he didn't mean it in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt."
Dishi recalled. "I sense an interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell
you where he got his inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because
they're very closely related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using
Yugi's name."  Atemu glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people
were within earshot.  "Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite
something." Dishi said, wondering whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he
shook it off. Waving his hand, he added. "You have your reasons and I respect
that." He smiled. "Our acquaintance is still new. But I can say that you seem to
be decent people. Helping each other to the point of taking yourselves for
granted.." He glanced at Atemu and Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So
whatever reason it is, I'm sure it is understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times."  Atemu
commented fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu." 
Yugi answered.  "The circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe. 
But Atemu won that title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad,
like a case of fraud or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous
gulp, Dishi quickly hid the Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence
was irking the scariest man he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was
irritate him further. "Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh
when he saw it being played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or
was that you, Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not
up to date when it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is
either one of you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding
the king of games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come on.
Settle down.  Your head's not gonna feel any better getting in another fight
with Kaiba-kun."  Yugi reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't help
it."  Atemu responded defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave
Atemu a sour look over his shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned,
sarcasm dripping from his voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look,
Kaiba.  It's your best friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi, who
had been watching the exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I could
use some assistance in sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing to the
surgical tools he had placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for
Rafael-San to return, though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He
stated, giving Yugi and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a
way of staying in people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reach
> > >
> >
>

"I can sleep now, right?" Atemu asked.

(by the way, Atemu didn't say anything about being Pharaoh, just that he was
from ancient Egypt)

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@...> wrote:
>
> "I guess." Rafael said with a smirk. "But I'm still keeping an eye on you." He
focused his attention on Dishi, quirking an eyebrow when the latter looked like
he wanted to say something, but ended up mustering a fish impression. "You
alright, Doc?"
>
> "....yes yes." Dishi said quickly as he tightened the knot on the final
stitch. He had forgotten about what Atemu told him, about being Pharaoh (CHANGED
THAT TO BEING FROM ANCIENT EGYPT) and all, until then. It made him concerned.
"All done." He said as he pulled back and cut the end of the thread. After
cleaning the wound, he reached for the clean bandage set up behind him, dipping
a patch in honey before wrapping it around the stitched injury.
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> >
> > "Okay, I swear on the feather of Ma'at that I really will take it easy until
the doctor says I'm fit to work again.  And if I'm lying, may my heart be
devoured by Ammut.  Will that do?" Atemu asked Rafael.
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > >
> > > "Just to make sure that it gets through your thick head since once was
obviously not enough" Rafael stated sternly with a hint of concern and a
'as-if-you-took-it-seriously-before' kind of tone. "Not that the threat to your
limb isn't enough already"
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "Again, I said I'd behave," Atemu pointed out.  "Does my word really
hold that little worth that you all doubt it?"
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "He finally gets the feeling." Rafael answered nonchalantly. "Amelda
didn't exactly keep a straight face when he helped me stitch Varon up." He
quickly added as an explanation. "Take it as a form of encouragement to stop
doing something stupid."
> > > > >
> > > > > "Also..." Dishi interrupted meekly as he neared the wound's midpoint.
"I only managed to bring a handful of thread rolls. I might run out of supplies
if restitching would become a constant thing. Unless you have some of course."
He chuckled slightly. "When the time comes when we do run out, I could come up
with some alternatives. But those were yet to be tested on humans. So I'm pretty
sure you are not willing to risk it unless there's no other option."
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "What the hell's so funny?!" Atemu snapped at Varon's back while
Yugi arrived.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Atemu, sit still and be quiet," Yugi chastised him.
> > > > > >
> > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "Sorry about that." Dishi mumbled as he pulled back slightly while
Varon gripped Atemu's shoulder and forearm, careful not to brush on the wound.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > "I should take it from here now, Varon." Rafael said as he
approached them, scowling when he saw Varon trying hard not to laugh. After
taking Varon's place, he made sure to glare holes at the back of the latter's
head when he walked away snickering.
> > > > > > >
> > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > "Easier said than done," Atemu responded, before wincing
slightly and swearing loudly.  'And just like that, I'm wide awake again,' he
mused, almost grabbing the injury on impulse.
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > "Actually, you can now." Dishi said quietly as he pushed the
needle through the edge of the wound and pierced it through the opposite side
side. "Now that Varon-san is here"
> > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > "Do it already."  Atemu prompted.  "I feel like crap and I
wanna sleep it off."
> > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Of...course..." Dishi said a little worriedly. After
cleaning the wound with the cloth, he worked on removing the old thread. A
shadow loomed over from behind. He stopped and turned towards the new arrival.
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Dunno 'ow long until those guys com' back." Varon said as
he crouched down in level with the doctor. "Am 'ere to help, by Raf's orders..."
He said, the last part more to himself.
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > "Well I may need some help in.....securing Atemu-sama"
Dishi said, faltering a bit as he gave Atemu an apologetic look. "In case...you
know..."
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > Varon grinned as he gave a small, mock salute. "I know.
Stitchin's a pain fer both parties."
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami"
<leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > "Quit fretting and get on with it already.  Oh, and uh,
any swearing and ranting is not directed at you, so don't worry about it and
please don't take offence."  Atemu responded.
> > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > "I have heard that he created Duel Monsters, and you
being the one who beat him. But that was all from the news." Dishi stated. "He
kept pushing me away whenever I tried to help him move on. It got to the point
that he outright refused to see me." Dishi added sadly. "We drifted apart
because of that. We never had much contact until he, Siegfried-San, and the
others found me. And that was after the pandemic struck." He vigorously shook
the salt water bottle before pouring a drop-sized amount on his finger. The
scrunched up look he wore after tasting the sample indicated that the salt water
was still potent. After re-sterilizing his hands, he poured a generous amount of
salt water on the cloth Rafael brought in. "Um... Try not to move too much." He
stated, feeling sympathetic as he brought the cloth close to Atemu's injury. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Oh, lucky me."  Atemu commented dryly before
glancing over to Pegasus.  "He IS okay now.  You needn't worry.  But that's how
we met him.  He was trying to collect the Items.  So our paths crossed as a
result."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Pretty much, yes." Dishi mumbled, a little
shocked that Atemu knew that much. "But he seems fine now." He added He turned
to look over his shoulder, smiling slightly as he watched Pegasus having an
almost bubbly chat with Varon. "But.... After his little.... escapade, I still
find it a bit dodgy to talk to him about.... magic and the like." Noting that
Rafael and Yugi might take their time, he quickly but meticulously sterilized
his hands and the tools he needed in the bowl of vinegar. "This procedure is
going to sting.... But I'm sure you already know that." He added sheepishly,
taking out a bottle of salt water he suddenly remembered having kept in his bag.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai
Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Went off to Egypt, lost an eye, and went a bit
off?"  Atemu guessed.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz"
<fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking the
fact that Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together in
order to prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was
nervous. Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear
breach. He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out
of his office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was
unfortunately a broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of
people were converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found
difficult to explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light
near one of the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at
it meant that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light
baffled him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter
before he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking
that it was a panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was
wrong. "I saw.... some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone
believe." He started quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He
drew in a deep breath and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just
imagined it. But I know what I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he
forced his eyes to meet Atemu's. "Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that
you are delusional. But please understand... I am aware that science cannot
explain everything.... But... That does not mean I can easily.. accept things
the way they are... I want to believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed
deeply while rubbing his forehead. "And what you just told me. About you
being..... Supposedly dead three millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust
Pegasus-san, yes. But after his wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was
devasted by his loss. He became so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I
wanted to help him. But he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as
he trailed off, not knowing how he should continue. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "well...um" Dishi trailed off, not liking
the fact that Rafael and Yugi just left him alone. He laced his fingers together
in order to prevent the habit of drumming them over a surface whenever he was
nervous. Despite his tense outlook, he was thinking back to the time of the bear
breach. He was in his office when he heard the loud, monstrous roar. He went out
of his office, but not without taking some sort of weapon (which was
unfortunately a broom tucked by the corner). As he raced towards where a lot of
people were converging, he saw something his science oriented mind found
difficult to explain. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > He remembered seeing a flash of bright light
near one of the Settlement's watch towers. Considering that the bear growled at
it meant that he was not imagining it. But what he saw coming out of that light
baffled him-- a human being with wings. Pegasus had ushered him into the shelter
before he could affirm himself that his eyes were not playing tricks on him. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > He had never told anyone about it, thinking
that it was a panicked induced hallucination of some sorts. Perhaps he was
wrong. "I saw.... some things.... That I found hard to explain.... Let alone
believe." He started quietly. "The... Thing that... Fought with the bear..." He
drew in a deep breath and shook his head. "I do not know if I.... I just
imagined it. But I know what I saw." Using every ounce of courage he had, he
forced his eyes to meet Atemu's. "Atemu-sama, I really do not want to think that
you are delusional. But please understand... I am aware that science cannot
explain everything.... But... That does not mean I can easily.. accept things
the way they are... I want to believe. But I can't help having doubts" he sighed
deeply while rubbing his forehead. "And what you just told me. About you
being..... Supposedly dead three millennia ago...." He forced a smile. "I trust
Pegasus, yes. But after his wife died.... I don't know what happened. He was
devasted by his loss. He became so desperate in bringing her back. He... I... I
wanted to help him. But he....he..." He sighed once again, lowering his head as
he fell silent, not sure how he should continue.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yeah, sure."  Yugi nodded, then looked at
Atemu.  "Behave yourself."  Atemu nodded and watched Yugi leave, beckoning
Rafael to follow him.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Atemu looked at Dishi again.  "I don't
care if you think I'm delusional.  I've put up with Kaiba all this time, and
he's not nearly so polite about it as you are.  But is it really that hard to
accept when I can call out the Dark Magician and Kaiba, biggest sceptic on the
planet, can call out the Blues Eyes White Dragon?  Again, ask Pegasus about it."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@...,
"Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not saying that you're lying,
Atemu-sama." Dishi stated quickly. "It's just.... Well..." He looked away,
biting his lip as he tried to figure out how to voice his thoughts in a simple
and unoffending way. Bluntly stating that he believed Atemu to be delusional
would surely get him in a lot of trouble. Plus, it was not the proper way to
approach the situation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Is there any problem here?" Rafael's
voice cut in. Dishi visibly relaxed as the much larger man entered, carrying the
things he had asked. There was also a pair of--what looked like-- brown ears
poking out of his coat pocket, much to the doctor's bewilderment. His voice
sounded calm. But the doctor noted the tense and rather apprehensive look on his
face. Perhaps he overheard their conversation. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Yugi" Rafael began in a low and calm
tone as he turned to the addressed after setting the items down.  "Can I have a
word with you, alone?" 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say beforehand that you don't
have to believe me.  But tell me, what could I possibly have to gain from lying
to you?"  Atemu asked.  "Tell you what, why don't you ask Pegasus about the
Millennium Items.  You trust him, don't you?  Ask him about the Millennium
Items, and my connection to them.  See what you can find out."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Well...it's...um" Dishi  did not
know what to say. But he could honestly say that he had heard worse.... From
patients with schizophrenia. But he was not about to say that out loud. Other
than that claim, Atemu showed no other symptoms of a person with schizophrenia.
Or perhaps he was yet to see it. But then again, he also believed that science
could not explain everything. "Okay..." So far, that was all he could say.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I did say it was complicated and
hard to believe."  Yugi commented.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Of all the reasons, that was
something Dishi had not expected.  He stared at Atemu then at Yugi, completely
confused.  "You're supposed to be dead 3 millennia ago?" He asked quietly. A
part time experience in the psychiatric ward had trained him how to keep his
cool when faced with highly unexpected responses.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Are you going to tell him?" 
Yugi asked Atemu quietly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I don't see any reason why
not.  I don't see any reason not to trust him."  Atemu answered just as quietly.
"And I think we owe him the truth."  Yugi mused this over before nodding his
agreement.  Atemu turned back to Dishi.  "You can choose not to believe me if
you want.  I won't hold it against you.  I was born, and I died, three thousand
years ago, in Egypt.  My spirit was with Yugi for a time.  I was given form to
be sent home, but we lost the means."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "But you two look almost
alike." Dishi said in disbelief. "I even thought you were twins."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I'm not really Yugi's
brother.  Not biologically I mean."  Atemu looked up at Yugi to quietly reassure
him that he didn't mean it in a bad way.  "His family took me in."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I think it was Egypt."
Dishi recalled. "I sense an interesting story coming along." He said playfully.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Did Pegasus ever tell
you where he got his inspiration for Duel Monsters?"  Atemu asked.  "Because
they're very closely related.  The inspiration for Duel Monsters, and my using
Yugi's name."  Atemu glanced about briefly, to make sure only trusted people
were within earshot.  "Along with certain things I know regarding old remedies."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's quite
something." Dishi said, wondering whether Pegasus knew of such a thing. But he
shook it off. Waving his hand, he added. "You have your reasons and I respect
that." He smiled. "Our acquaintance is still new. But I can say that you seem to
be decent people. Helping each other to the point of taking yourselves for
granted.." He glanced at Atemu and Kaiba from the corner of his eye. "So
whatever reason it is, I'm sure it is understandable."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Good times." 
Atemu commented fondly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "That's Atemu." 
Yugi answered.  "The circumstances are really complicated, and hard to believe. 
But Atemu won that title, using my name.  And I know that sounds really bad,
like a case of fraud or something... but it really wasn't anything like that."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Taking a nervous
gulp, Dishi quickly hid the Kuriboh toy in his pocket. The fur ball's presence
was irking the scariest man he had ever met.  The last thing he wanted to do was
irritate him further. "Yes... Well. Um. My son fell in love with the... Kuriboh
when he saw it being played by you, Yugi-San." He then did a double take. "Or
was that you, Atemu-sama." He held his hands up in defeat. "I'm sorry. I'm not
up to date when it comes to who the King of Games is. But I'm quite sure it is
either one of you." He added, recalling the tiny bits of info he had regarding
the king of games. 
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Atemu, come
on.  Settle down.  Your head's not gonna feel any better getting in another
fight with Kaiba-kun."  Yugi reprimanded lightly.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "I couldn't
help it."  Atemu responded defensively.  "It just brings back SO many memories."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "chidoriXblossom" <chidori_blossom.23792@>
wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Kaiba gave
Atemu a sour look over his shoulder.  "Ha ha.  You're so funny."  He deadpanned,
sarcasm dripping from his voice.
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > "Hey look,
Kaiba.  It's your best friend."  Atemu laughed.  "Kuriboh."
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > --- In
ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Dishi,
who had been watching the exchange with amusement, turned to Yugi. "Well, I
could use some assistance in sterilizing all these things." He said, gesturing
to the surgical tools he had placed by his side. "But we still have to wait for
Rafael-San to return, though." He chuckled slightly. "Duelists' honor, huh.." He
stated, giving Yugi and Atemu a friendly look. "I guess Pegasus-san's game has a
way of staying in people's lives then." He chuckled slightly as he reach
> > > >
> > >
> >
>

"Yes. Yes you can, Atemu-sama" Dishi stammered as he cleaned and repacked his
tools, trying his best to keep his gaze down while at it. "Just... try not to
push yourself too hard when you wake up." With a quick smile and a timid wave,
he left to attend to anyone else who may be injured.

Dishi's unusually timid(well, more timid than usual)behavior did not go
unnoticed by Rafael. With one brow quirked up in confusion and annoyance, he
turned to both Yugi and Atemu. "Did something happen when I left you two alone
with Dishi?"

--- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@...>
wrote:
>
> "I can sleep now, right?" Atemu asked.
>
> (by the way, Atemu didn't say anything about being Pharaoh, just that he was
from ancient Egypt)
>
> --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> >
> > "I guess." Rafael said with a smirk. "But I'm still keeping an eye on you."
He focused his attention on Dishi, quirking an eyebrow when the latter looked
like he wanted to say something, but ended up mustering a fish impression. "You
alright, Doc?"
> >
> > "....yes yes." Dishi said quickly as he tightened the knot on the final
stitch. He had forgotten about what Atemu told him, about being Pharaoh (CHANGED
THAT TO BEING FROM ANCIENT EGYPT) and all, until then. It made him concerned.
"All done." He said as he pulled back and cut the end of the thread. After
cleaning the wound, he reached for the clean bandage set up behind him, dipping
a patch in honey before wrapping it around the stitched injury.
> >
> > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > >
> > > "Okay, I swear on the feather of Ma'at that I really will take it easy
until the doctor says I'm fit to work again.  And if I'm lying, may my heart be
devoured by Ammut.  Will that do?" Atemu asked Rafael.
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > "Just to make sure that it gets through your thick head since once was
obviously not enough" Rafael stated sternly with a hint of concern and a
'as-if-you-took-it-seriously-before' kind of tone. "Not that the threat to your
limb isn't enough already"
> > > >
> > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Kedakai Okami" <leigh_gamer@>
wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > "Again, I said I'd behave," Atemu pointed out.  "Does my word really
hold that little worth that you all doubt it?"
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > >
> > > > > --- In ygopostpandemic@..., "Demz" <fox_dm17@> wrote:
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "He finally gets the feeling." Rafael answered nonchalantly. "Amelda
didn't exactly keep a straight face when he helped me stitch Varon up." He
quickly added as an explanation. "Take it as a form of encouragement to stop
doing something stupid."
> > > > > >
> > > > > > "Also..." Dishi interrupted meekly as he neared the wound's
midpoint. "I only managed to bring a handful of thread rolls. I might run out of
supplies if restitching would become a constant thing. Unless you have some of
course." He chuckled slightly. "When the time comes when we do run out, I could
come up with some alternatives. But those were yet to be tested on humans. So
I'm pretty sure you are not willing to risk it unless there's no other option."
> > > > > >
> > &