State of Mind

PAIRING(S): Seto + Mokuba

ORIGINAL CHARACTERS: Grey-san, Corvin-san, Field-san and the Kravans.

SPOILERS: None really, since the plot is most likely more AU than anything else.

SUMMARY: Mokuba is now 15 years old and has grown into a confident young man. In the years since Secrets that Remain Mokuba has become aware of Seto's game and the brothers have become inseparably close. Yet many secrets still remain. As the eve of Mokuba's 16th birthday nears, a new and unusual tension is in the air.
What lies beneath the surface of happy days and silent nights? When the demons of the past will not die, how does one continue to live? "This ephemeral peace will one day shatter and all shall fall away...”

DISCLAIMER: I do not own Yuugiou nor am I making any money from this story. Please give appropriate support toward Yuugiou's mangaka Takahashi Kazuki.

*****WARNINGS: PLEASE NOTE that this story contains direct mention and some description of sexual/mental child abuse between two males. This content is portrayed as a damaging, terrible act of violation toward a child as any type of child abuse is; however, if this subject offends you in ANY way, please do not read.

Contains Yaoi/MalexMale/Homosexual and incestuous situations, mature language, mention of attempted suicide, and various other not nice things.

-Blood.

---Chapter 11---

The sun was fully risen and surprisingly mild as Seto and Mokuba rested beneath a large tree trunk, eating lunch. They had packed a simple feast of onigiri and water.

"We should be getting close," Seto said after he finished his third rice ball. He now sipped his water, looking up at the openings of the canopy.

Mokuba considered stopping at three, but finally devouring down his fourth rice ball greedily. He wrapped up the remaining three and packed them away into his small backpack. The pack also held lighters, working flashlights, compass, knife and first aid kit. The island was owned, but not domestic. Ira had purchased the island for his wife as a honeymoon retreat and gift; Mrs. Kravan was well known as a nature lover and environmental activist. She had started many campaigns for conservation of endangered wildlife and plants throughout her life. Both Mr. and Mrs. Kravan supported advancement in clean energy like solar and hydroelectric power. Therefore, much of the island was untamed, deadly beauty, so one came prepared when hiking within.

Mokuba released a quiet burp in appreciation of the quick and satisfying meal, leaning back against the rough bark. He glanced at Seto. The brunette sat in the mild shadows beneath the ancient tree, staring upward with interest. Cobalt eyes were, upon further inspection, unfocused as if lost in thought. His chest rose and retracted in even breath beneath the royal blue, form-fitting shirt, long sleeves hugging toned muscle appreciatively. The shirt was tucked into dark blue jeans, a black belt with silver clasp about his slim waist.

Mokuba felt his skin flush as he admired his brother’s attire. He turned away quickly so Seto would not see his response and looked down at his own outfit. He wore a sporty black tank that covered his stomach only if he sat still and faded khaki capris that hung loosely at his hips, ending at mid-calf. Tattered blue and grey sneakers covered his feet comfortably. He looked pretty fine, if his opinion counted. Feeling rather sly, Mokuba peeped back over his shoulder at Seto. His heart skipped a beat when Seto was found to be looking back this time. Mokuba recovered quickly, smiling.

“Ready?” Seto asked.

“Yep!” He hopped to his feet gracefully, hoisting the pack over both shoulders as Seto did the same.

---
Ambrosia easily covers one thousand acres, most of which is dense rain forest and full of wildlife unique to this part of the world. Not having quite the experience needed to traverse the dark depths of a tropical forest, Seto and Mokuba stayed in known territory. The southwest half of Ambrosia climbed much higher above sea level than its northeast side and vegetation grew less dense here. This is where the pair explored, staying to the open as much as possible and following an unmarked path to their destination. Armed with a compass and a physiographic map that showed the locations of the most visited spots by Ira and his wife. Some of these locations were far into the southwest side of the island, silently revealing the couple’s abilities.

Broad-leafed evergreens hung from ancient branches overhead and lime green plants at foot level, tropical bushes growing everywhere. The twitter of birds filled the treetops.

As morning transitioned into afternoon, the humidity rose significantly. Mokuba expelled a sweaty breath before raising his canteen to moist lips. Gulping twice, the thirsty male enjoyed the cool water as it flowed over and past his tongue. He resisted the urge to wipe the sweat from his forehead, only patting his eyes with the back of a gleaming hand.

“Wow, it’s humid,” Mokuba said as Seto also paused to take a well-needed drink.

“Very,” agreed the brunette. “We’re almost there.” He brushed wet bangs back from his forehead charmingly before glancing at the compass in his hand. “This way.”

After several more minute the terrain abruptly began to rise before them. Seto turned away from the incline, rounding the base where ground was still level and maneuvered through steadily denser foliage. The plant life eventually dispersed, the path clearing to reveal water flowing past. It was small enough to step over but they did not.

They turned upstream, admiring the clear water and smooth rocks. Two other streams were revealed to their right as they walked, the three moving steadily closer together. The two furthest from Seto and Mokuba were wider and faster as they disappeared into the trees. The water path at their feet also widened as the water grew rougher until all three came together. After several yards the water pulled far away from the pair as it rounded a large rock bend and widened out into a clear oval pool. The rock wall rose up to approximately sixty feet and curved in, crystal water flowing gracefully into the pool from a passage near the top of the rock wall. The air temperature dropped noticeably, but the humidity rose.

Mokuba wasted no time refilling his canteen and splashing his flushed face. He sat down his pack and smiled up at the open sky. He then turned to Seto.

“Let’s see if we can still get behind the waterfall, Nii-sama,” he suggested excitedly.

“All right, “ Seto agreed, returning the smile and removing his own pack. He moved his and Mokuba’s bags onto a flat stone beside the pool before taking Mokuba’s invitation.

To enter one had to slip through the nineteen inch distance between the stone and falls. Here, the rock wall opened up to a space large enough for two or three average men to stand comfortably side by side. A constant trickle within the niche kept the space from staying dry. Mokuba sat beneath this natural faucet, shivering pleasantly as it drenched his hair and sent cold streams down his back.

“Woo! That hits the spot!” Mokuba shook his ponytail and ran a hand through dripping bangs.
“Your turn.” He smiled as he scooted off to the side, secretly enjoying the gleam of Seto’s wet skin. He shivered again; his reasons separate from the cold water.

Seto washed his sweaty face and hair, allowing a relaxed expression to encompass his face. He preferred the cold. He scooted out from the flow soon after, the wet fabric of his shirt clinging comfortably to his skin. Seto turned to his brother then. The teen was apparently enjoying himself, hair shimmering and messy now from having run his hands through it several times. Mokuba took his hair down from the ponytail he had worn all day, shaking the strands loose over his shoulders. He then reclined once again beneath the water. Seto did not doubt Mokuba was hot, his dark hair absorbed heat readily. Because of this Mokuba washed his hair at least once every day. Too many males with long hair neglected to care for it properly and had greasy locks, so Mokuba intended to not be grouped with such guys.

Seto personally thought long hair was too much trouble to handle. His own brunette hair required little grooming or styling. He believed longer hair would look ridiculous on him, but it suited his brother handsomely. He was known for more than just his status at Kaiba Corp©. Every year Mokuba grew more capable and inarguably more beautiful.

For the first time since mention of Mokuba’s sixteenth birthday, Seto thought about what it meant. His younger brother was at the threshold of physical boyhood and manhood, having breached much of the mental maturity already. Mokuba had already proven his ability as a businessman and he was by no means an average sixteen year old. The reclining teen had lost his parents at an early age; he lost his foster father in a gruesome accident before his teenage years; he had been kidnapped and forced into several hostage situations where his life and the life of his brother were threatened; and throughout it all, Seto had only increased indifference toward Mokuba. All of this before his 13th birthday.

Mentally Seto knew Mokuba could no longer be called a child, but was he an adult? Seto felt this would remain ambiguous for now. Either way, Mokuba had plenty of time to fill the role of a child still and Seto would not object to it. There was no need to rush.
Seto pushed away the melancholy that had gripped his heart. Mokuba had at least a year or two before most children left home. Who wanted to live with their brother past 18? Even now, Mokuba never brought home any girls. Seto wasn’t sure if he was dating anyone with his busy schedule, but most boys his age were enjoying their love life at this age.

Seto watched as Mokuba squeezed water out of his hair before tying it back into a high ponytail. The teen was built with broad shoulders and slender hips; he had smooth, tanned skin and bright silver eyes set evenly in a symmetrical face. A small nose sat above pouty lips. Girls were always staring and complimenting Mokuba at school and when he was out; and not nearly all of this was merely admiration for his money. Seto was sure Mokuba would return the interest soon.

“What are you thinking about?” Mokuba was a few inches from Seto’s face and propped on hands and knees, bangs in his eyes. Seto hadn’t noticed the approach.

“I was wondering when it will rain today,” he said.

“Is it supposed to?”

“Too humid not to.” Seto explained, “In this climate rain is almost a daily occurrence.”
Mokuba looked thoughtful. Then, he put his hands on Seto’s shoulder, pushing, “Let’s go then, we’ve had time to cool off.” Seto chucked, giving way as Mokuba exaggeratedly urged him forward out of the niche.

“We don’t have to hurry.”

“I’d like to look around more before it rains or gets dark.”
The pair exited the space and maneuvered down the rock path. The sun was now high in the sky, indicating how close to noon it was; 11:45 according to Seto’s watch. He glanced at the machine from habit, confirming that there were still several hours before dark. Since the trip home would last approximately two hours they would leave at latest by 5:00pm. This way there would be an extra hour before sundown and would not have to hurry.
The air was full of moisture, but not as thick and muggy as was the forest’s. In the immediate area surrounding the falls the water spray could reach anything within a considerable radius of fifteen feet; the furthest point offering a soothing mist into the humid air. The pool beneath extended along the rocky wall until meeting up and continuing into the forest for several yards where it narrowed and flowed out of sight into thickening underbrush.

Seto could hear the sharp calls of several birds and the rhythm of insects from far within. The almost continuous noise was as distracting as it was calming. In the hustle and bustle of the wild unseen creatures were jumping from limbs, climbing trees, creeping through foliage, squealing as their final breath was taken, or sleeping in expectation of night.

A pleasant chill ran through the brunette. He stood at the bank of the pool, looking out into the mist. His cerulean eyes turned to his right, watching Mokuba navigate the various bushes at the edge of the trees. He was studying the different leaves and variety of flowering plants. His body language communicated no hesitation at stepping into the forest. Seto felt a little anxious as he watched; there were several reasons to hesitate in this forest. They had never hiked further than this spot for that very reason. The forest became more enclosed and tangled, transforming into the very picture of a jungle. One had to be wary of even the most beautiful flower or smallest amphibian. Venomous creatures were only one reason for caution.

Seto glanced into the slightly murky bottom of the water, catching sight of several fish. A slender snake glided across the water at the far end of the pool, disappearing into the cover of large leaves on dry land. Seto thought then they should have worn boots that covered their ankles. He suddenly frowned when he checked on his brother. The raven-haired teen was gone from his previous spot. Seto scanned the pool’s perimeter for a few yards before seeing him. He was standing stock still, staring toward the tree line.
Following his stare, Seto saw what was keeping him so captivated and his own eyes widened a little. At the farthest end of the pool, shaded by the trees beyond the rocky wall was a creature about the size of an average dog. Its hairless snout was against the water, lapping up a drink. Reddish brown fur covered its body; the head bore white across the forehead and slightly pointed ears. The creature surely hadn’t noticed the Kaibas yet. The three stayed the same for several minutes. Finally, the white head looked up. Strangely enough, it did not immediately flee. It licked its lips and twitched its pale nose. Quite fearlessly, the creature stood up on its large hind legs for a moment, flashing a tan-white underbelly. It stared at the two humans before suddenly losing interest. This boredom resulted in the creature returning to all fours as it turned away. A slender red and tan striped tail appeared for a moment before following its owner into the underbrush.

"What do you think it was?"

"I've never seen one before," Seto admitted.

"Do you think it was a new species?" Mokuba sounded excited.

"It's quite possible; every time someone explores a rainforest they find several previously unknown species." The brunette smiled. This was quite a different accomplishment from his usual business world. This incredible find created an uncharted type of awe compared to the city and Seto found it wonderful.

---
Mokuba's chest expanded with excitement as he watched the animal's eyes on him. Dark eyes that held no fear of humans, steady and sure movements even as every muscle was ready to react if danger appeared. The creature was part of an ever present food chain and must always be alert and ready if it was to survive. The cool ferocity of an animal straight from the wild was really an uncommon sight. Mokuba had never seen such a creature up close and he felt the atmosphere change, the instant respect that came over him. This reminded Mokuba of the intensity seen daily in azure eyes, of the natural impression of strength radiating from an erect posture. Seto, Mokuba realized suddenly, possessed the aura of a wild animal.

Thinking this, Mokuba glanced at his brother. His heart melted at the sight of the unusually clear smile. A reflection of Seto's joy bloomed on Mokuba's lips instantly. Misty sunlight not only encased the surrounding area in mythic splendor, but also the strangely endearing man standing at its center. Mokuba fixed the image to memory, savoring the way the humid air illuminated Seto's wet hair in sinful detail. He seemed more like a rather gorgeous phantom emerging from someone's dream. Perhaps it was Mokuba's fantasy since he was the only one present to witness and respond.

Distractedly, Mokuba penetrated the moment, asking his question and registering the answer only vaguely. A bit slowly, he cleared away his foggy thoughts and realized how unusual it was that neither could remember seeing a picture of the animal before. Perhaps a new species? He felt true excitement when Seto seemed to agree.

"This so cool," he said breathlessly. "We should name it." His tone suddenly changed to amusement, "Let's call it Semoba?"

Seto made a face, his smile tilting to one of humorless inquiry.

Mokuba blushed a bit and thought of another one, "Sekuba...? Kaimoto?" Seto was looking more and more amused, but was attempting to hide it.

"Kaiseba? Oh, I like that one," he said defiantly.

Seto did not disapprove of this one as strongly as the others. He consented to the idea, said, "All right, but it isn't really official."

"I know. It's just for us. This way we won't have to describe the animal when remembering it. We can say something like, "Remember when we saw the Kaiseba?" and both of us will know instantly what that means." Mokuba felt more than a little silly for this conversation, but it was also important to him somehow.

"Of course," Seto agreed.

I'm going to climb up to the top," Mokuba said suddenly, looking now at the waterfall. His attention had shifted and so Seto followed his example.

"I'll come with you," Seto replied, thinking, 'So you don't get yourself hurt.’