Danegold: The Viking Brother's Sequel

ChibiMisu here! Okay, so here’s chapter three! ^^ I finally posted it! My classes started this week so I was a bit backed up. Ugh, back to academics >_> There are also two bonus stories at the end of this chapter! ^^v “How Yami Met Seto” and “How Marik Got Avaldamon”. I feel bad for taking so long to update and this is my way of saying I’m sorry! *bows low*

Also, since so many of you like the bonus stories, I’m willing to write more of them. So, if you have a specific subject that you would like to see expanded on, (or that I just didn’t explain enough) feel free to email or comment me with your idea and maybe I’ll write one using it. Give the people what they want, I always say! ^^v

Anyway, onto the story! ^^

Disclaimer: I do not own Yugioh


Danegold: The Viking Brother’s Sequel


Chapter 3: Let The Games Begin

“Hello Yugi, my name is Tea.”


“Um...hello. It’s nice to meet you.” She looked at Annar and gasped.


“Is that my little Annar?! May I hold him?” Yugi held Annar away from her.


“No. I don’t want anyone else holding him but me.” Tea blinked in surprise.


“Well, I am his real mother so I have every right to hold him.” Duke moved to stand in her eyesight.


“Yugi is his real mother now. You ran out on the poor kid, remember?” She narrowed her eyes at Duke.


“It doesn’t matter who Yami marries. I was the one who gave birth to him and if I want him back, I can have him!” Yugi gasped and held Annar tightly. Tea wanted HIS baby boy back! Yugi knew that had to be the main reason why she showed up here. She didn’t come here to make peace, she wanted to take Annar away from him! Yami was right, she IS evil! “Now let me see him!” She moved towards Yugi but Keith blocked her path.


“You no longer have authority or a place in this family. Annar is no longer yours by law. Yami is the father and holds full claim to his heir, whether you’re the mother or not. And now, Yami has chosen Yugi to be the new Lady of the House and mother to Annar.” Tea put her hands on her hips and scoffed.


“How dare you try to keep me away from my son! I’m going to bring this matter to the king himself! Lets just see how he takes to the thought of some little boy slut raising a child!” Duke gave her a firm push towards the tent flap, making her stumble.


“Get out!” She shrieked and covered her chest with her arms.


“Don’t you EVER put your hands on me again, peasant!” Her hand lashed out and landed a firm slap on his cheek. Before Duke could react, Keith reached his hand out and grasped the back of her dress, practically dragging her out of the tent. “Let go of me!!”


“You heard him; Get lost!” He tossed her to the ground. “If you know what’s good for you, you’ll leave before Yami comes back.” Duke came storming out of the tent, his face red with anger.


“LET ME AT HER! I’LL PULL HER HAIR OUT!!” Keith quickly restrained Duke from jumping into a cat fight. He wrapped his arms around Duke’s stomach and held him tight. Duke kicked his legs and flailed his arms around. “LET ME GO! LET ME AT HER!!” Tea, angered by the way she was treated and the curses Duke was now throwing her way, got up from the ground and hurried off to tell her husband what had happened. Keith made sure she left before carrying the struggling Duke back into the tent.


Yugi sat on the bed of blankets with Annar, holding him close. He wasn’t sure what he should feel. Should he be worried about Yami’s ex-wife? Should he be angry at the fact that she is trying to destroy his home life? Should he be jealous that she’s his son’s biological mother and he’s not? All these questioning thoughts started to give him a headache. Was it possible to feel all these emotions in one shot? For Yugi, it was, and he felt a strange change come over him. He had never felt this way before. He couldn’t describe what it was, but if Tea came anywhere NEAR Annar...he might do something drastic. He wasn’t sure what he would do, but if the situation came up, he’d do it.


“YOU RAT BASTARD!” Yugi jumped from his thoughts at the sudden, loud outburst. “Why didn’t you let me have a go at her?!” Duke questioned angrily.


“The Oddvar’s are already trouble for Yami and the others. They have their hands full enough without you starting up trouble by beating Tea! If you had hurt her in any way, those Oddvar’s would come back and possibly do the same to one of ours. Do you want that, Duke? They could come after Ryou, or Malik, or Jou, or Yugi. Maybe even you.” Duke crossed his arms and turned around on his heel, purposely hitting Keith with hair again.


“Fine, I’ll agree with you on that, but I’m not afraid of those Oddvar brothers!” Duke walked over to Yugi and kneeled down next to him. “Are you okay, Yugi?” Yugi looked at him with teary eyes.


“Duke, what if she DOES go to the king with this and he makes us give Annar up?!” Duke scoffed.


“I hardly think the King, as close as he is with Yami and the rest of the Bolverk family, would listen to what a whiney little girl like her has to say. Remember Yugi, Yami is the true father and like that blonde rat said,” Keith rolled his eyes “Yami holds all the claims. You have nothing to worry about.” Annar blinked up at them.


“She crazy lady.” He said plainly which made Yugi smiled and Duke chuckle. “She take me away, I bite her!”


“Good! Bite her once for me, little demon!”

“Bite who?” All heads turned to Yami who had just entered the tent. He noticed Yugi’s teary eyes and Duke’s comforting hand on his shoulder. “What happened?” He asked, trying to remain calm as to not scare Yugi.


“Tea made a surprise appearance.” Keith was the first to answer and Yami nearly fell over at hearing her name.


“Tea?! What business does she have here!?”


“She wants to take Annar away from us!” Yugi said in a wavering voice. He was going to start bawling soon if Yami didn’t say something comforting. What Yami REALLY wanted to do was vent his anger to Yugi so his little love could calm his rage. Damn, this just wasn’t his day.


“Yugi, there’s no way she can take Annar from us. The king is on our side and I hold all rights to him. Don’t listen to what she says, Annar isn’t going anywhere.


“But Yami-“


”Yugi, I said you don’t have to worry.”


“She is a bitch, Yami.” Duke said. “I can see why you don’t like her.” Yugi nodded frantically.


“I told you so. Now, you two,” Referring to Keith and Duke, “I need to talk to Yugi alone.” Duke stood up and ruffled Yugi’s hair.


“I’ll see you later, okay Yugi?” Yugi looked up at him and nodded. Keith held the tent flap open for Duke, but the only thanks he got was another slap in the face by a raven pony tail. He followed Duke out with a slight glare, leaving Yami and Yugi alone. Yugi placed Annar in his basket bed and gave him a wooden horse to play with. Yami plopped himself down on the ground and laid back so his head was resting in Yugi’s lap. Yugi looked down at him with surprised eyes.


“Is something troubling you, Yami?” Yami closed his eyes and sighed, his brow in a frown. Yugi smiled gently and brought his hands down to stroke Yami’s forehead soothingly. “I know that look. What is it, love?”


“Everything. Everything is troubling me.” He answered with a deep sigh.


“Describe “everything”.”


“My ex-wife, the Oddvar’s, these games, ugh! I’m going crazy! But I have to say, most of my stress is caused by those damn Oddvar’s!” Yugi brought one hand down to stroke his cheek and the other to rest lightly on his shoulder.


“What have they done now?” Yami shrugged.


“Just their very existence is enough to piss me off. If only you could understand this feeling I have, but you’re too gentle in spirit to know.” Yami smiled up at him. “Little moments like this let me escape from my troubles. At least for awhile.” He reached his hand up to Yugi’s face and placed it on his cheek. Yugi leaned into the hand and purred quietly. “I've done many horrible things in my time and yet I get rewarded by the gods by sending me a creature of beauty to ease my spirit. And I thank my lucky stars everyday that I have you by my side.” Yugi smiled down at him, his eyes slightly moist with tears.


“As do I, Yami. I believe God granted me the right to happiness in this life. If you had never ransacked our village, which I try to forget,” Yami cleared his throat at that “Then I would have never of met you. This was fate.” Yami took Yugi’s hand away from his shoulder and kissed it.


“You make me forget everything, Yugi. What would I do without you?”


“I’ll always be here for you, Yami.” He said, returning a kiss to Yami’s hand. “Is that all that’s troubling you?”


“Yes, but I should have known the Oddvar’s would be here so I could prepare for them. Sometimes, if they just pop up out of the blue, my mind gets all jumbled up. I don’t know if I should turn away or go for the neck.”


“Try to stray away from too much violence, Yami. Since this feud is already big enough, no need to make it worse by killing one of them. You have to learn to control your temper. Now what made you so mad today that you had to send Duke and Keith away? You came in with a frown.” Yami sneered.


“Ludmund was giving me hell about my age. I’m not that old, but he insists on making a big thing about it.” Yugi shook his head with an amused smile.


“You let him, or rather all of them, get to you. From what you tell me, it appears they like seeing you mad. If you let them know it bothers you, they’ll do it all the more.” Yami sighed angrily, knowing Yugi was right. Now he felt stupid for completely overlooking something so simple.


“Bah! All this stress is bound to give me gray hairs!” Yugi chuckled lightly.


“I doubt you’ll get gray hairs, Yami. You’re not an old man yet! At least I think you aren’t.” Yami sent him a glare.


“Not you too, Yugi!?” Yugi giggled and hugged the head in his lap tightly.


“I’m only teasing you, Yami. I don’t care how old you are, it makes no difference to me. Besides, you can’t be THAT old for them to make fun of you.” Yami frowned from inside Yugi’s grip.


“I’m not old, but I’m not young either.”


“Well, how old are you?”


“I’m-“ Bakura entered their tent.


“The local lords have summoned you, Yami.” He said flatly. “They want to talk about the games or something like that. They said it was important and came from the king.” Yami groaned and stood up, massaging his shoulder as he did.


“Where are they?”


“There’s a guy here who will take you to them.” With that, Bakura closed the flap. Yami fixed his hair and bent down to kiss Yugi, then kissed Annar.


“You be good for mommy.” Yami told his son firmly. Annar just stared blankly at him, gnawing on the wooden horse. Yugi gasped and jumped up, taking the horse out of Annar’s mouth.


“What did I say about chewing on your toys?!” Another blank stare. “You’ll get splinters in your tongue and then in your belly!”


“He’s probably hungry, Yugi.”


“But he just ate, Yami. Seto says he’s going through a stage where he feels the need to put everything in his mouth.” Yami shrugged his shoulders and wrapped his fur shawl around his shoulders.


“He’ll grow out of it. Now,” he started, changing the subject “do not go anywhere unless Keith or Tristan is with you. If necessary, and my brothers are around, go with one of them. I want you safe from harm at all times.” Yugi nodded.


“I promise Yami. I really have no reason to leave other than to buy food for Annar.” Yami ruffled his son’s hair.


“No more wood.”


“Bye bye, daddy!” Yami waved to them over his shoulder before he left the tent.


Bakura’s tent:


Bakura walked into his tent with a yawn and a hiccup. Ryou was already awake and reading a book Tristan had gotten for him from the market. He had his fox fur wrapped around him as he read. He looked up from the book and smiled as the object of his desire came in. The book Tristan had brought him was a love story between a princess and a great warrior. He even had Tristan go out and find him a quill and ink so he could change the names of the two characters. He was the princess and Bakura the warrior. Sure, it was cheesy, but that was as close as Ryou was going to get to Bakura in a romantic relationship. It was better than nothing.


“Hello Bakura, how was your first day?” Ryou asked with a slight cough. He rubbed his sore throat, hoping to relieve some of the pain there.


“It sucked! Those damn Oddvar brothers and my sister-in-law are here! What a way to ruin a vacation!” Ryou frowned.


“I’m sorry to hear that, Bakura. Yugi told me about the Oddvar brothers.” He turned his head away to sneeze. “Um...Bakura, you look tired. Why don’t you come to bed?”


“I can’t sleep peacefully knowing those bastards are here!” He sneered. “It just makes my blood boil! Especially those twins Cadby and Denby!”


“Why them?”


“They picked on me when we were little. It was two against one. I was always in the middle when they took my toys and played keep away!” Ryou frowned sadly. Poor Bakura, he had to suffer abuse from his brothers and their family rivals. No wonder he was so angry and crazy!


“Don’t let them get to you, Bakura. You were children back then. Children are usually mean to each other. You should try to settle your dispute on an adult level.” Bakura rolled his eyes.


“Please, if it were that easy, I would have done it by now. Those Oddvar’s won’t listen to reason.”


“And how do you know that, if you’ve never talked to them?” Bakura gave him a sharp sideways glare.


“Watch that mouth of yours, Ryou.” Ryou shied away behind his book, knowing he went to far.


“Sorry, sir.” Bakura ‘hmphed’ and took his sword off his belt, laying it next to the fur blankets.


“We’re sleeping with my sword tonight. Knowing those barbarians are out and about, there’s no telling what they’ll do.” Ryou gulped slightly, his worry turning to fear.


“Are these men as cruel as you say, Bakura?” Bakura ushered him over with his hands and Ryou moved to give him room. Bakura slid under the blankets and sighed at the comforting warmth.


“Hm...I’ll say this, we don’t know what to expect from them. I’m just being cautious.” He turned to Ryou. “Are you feeling any better?” Ryou smiled at Bakura’s kind question.


“Yes, I’m starting to get my strength back.”


“Good, because you’re behind on your work. Those wenches selling soup have no idea how I like mine cooked! If you don’t get better fast, I’m going to starve! And my tunic has more tears in it and needs to be stitched. I can’t go on like this, Ryou. I look and feel like a peasant!” Ryou giggled at Bakura’s confession. Maybe he can’t see it, but Ryou can see that he needs him. And that comforting thought seemed to make his illness fade. He felt bold enough to ask Bakura for a favor.


“Bakura, can I cuddle up with you tonight? It’s cold out and if I’m to get better, I need warmth.” Bakura glance at him out of the corner of his eye and shrugged.


“Do whatever you want, just get better so you can get work!” Ryou smiled snuggled up to Bakura, burying his face in the strong neck. He rest his right hand on Bakura’s shoulder and tucked the other one between them. He threw one leg over Bakura’s so he could lay closer. “Hey, you’re getting a bit too comfortable.”


Ryou pretended to snore to act like he did not hear him. Bakura muttered something incoherent and placed his arms behind his head. Ryou sighed mentally, having hoped Bakura would wrap at least one arm around him. Oh, how much he wished Bakura would just hold him in his arms. He’d always feel safe and loved wrapped in his embrace, if only Bakura would allow it. Oh well, this was one step up from their previous relationship. He’d just have to keep a positive attitude and take it one, SLOW step at a time.

The next morning, Yugi was up early with Annar, who was again complaining about being hungry. He couldn’t deny his child food, but he didn’t want him growing up to be chubby. No doubt Yami wants him to become a powerful Viking warlord like himself. Luckily, Malik and Duke were already up and making breakfast behind their tents together. Tristan was busy feeding Avaldamon and talking to Jou. Even Ryou was out with everyone, wrapped in his fox fur cloak and some more fur blankets. He sat by the fire, watching Duke and Malik cook. Everyone seemed to be up early except for Yami and the brothers. He didn’t see Keith around anywhere either.


“Good morning, Yugi.” Ryou greeted happily as Yugi walked over to them.


“Hi Ryou.” He replied with a smile and a wave. “Feeling better?” Ryou nodded.


“A little. I was going stir crazy being cooped up in that tent.” Malik added some more water to the pot.


“You’re just in time, Yugi! I made some great soup for all of us!” Duke held up a sack which held some loaves of bread and a jug.


“I stole some bread and milk from a vender nearby. Today, we eat like kings!” Annar squealed and clapped his hands.


“Me hungry! Me hungry!!” Yugi handed him to Ryou.


“Here, you stay with Auntie Ryou while I ready your breakfast.”


Yugi kneeled on the ground and reached into the sack, taking out a loaf of bread. He broke the end off of it and placed it in one of the bowls. He put the rest back and began breaking the piece he had into smaller ones. He borrowed the ladle from Malik and scooped out some of the soup, pouring it over the bread. Using the ladle, he mushed the bread around in the bowl until it was soggy. ‘This should be enough to fill his belly’.


“Your breakfast is ready, baby.” Annar already had his mouth wide open, waiting for the spoon. Ryou giggled at the sight.


“Be careful Annar, or a great big bug might just fly in there.” Annar ignored him completely and started to whine. Yugi quickly shoved the spoon into the boy’s mouth before he started to cry.

“Please remember to chew.” Yugi begged but sighed as he watched Annar swallow it completely.


“Ah, so that’s why you were making the bread soggy.” Malik realized.


“Yeah,” Yugi got another spoonful and fed it to Annar “If I don’t, I fear he might choke one of these days. He’s like a bottomless pit sometimes.” Ryou giggled.


“Bakura’s pretty much the same way.”


“And Marik too.” Malik added in while still stirring the soup. Tristan and Jou hurried over when the smell of fresh soup traveled through the air. Malik got them both bowls with spoons and poured the soup. Duke ripped another loaf of bread in half and handed one each to them. The two sat down next to Ryou, Tristan eating the soup and Jou nibbling on the bread.


“This soup is good Malik!” Tristan said with a smile. “When did you become such a good cook?”


“I could always cook, I just didn’t want to.” Tristan let out a laugh.


“You sound just like Duke!” Duke gave him a glare and Tristan’s smile quickly turned to a frown. “Heh, heh....sorry.”


“I hate cooking” Duke said flatly. Ryou smiled at his comment.


“I like cooking! If I wasn’t sick, I’d help you, Malik.” Malik smiled at his friend.


“Not a problem, Ryou. You just work on getting better.” Malik took another bowl and filled it with soup for Ryou. Ryou put Annar down on the ground, who was so transfixed by the food that he didn’t notice. Ryou thanked him as he took the bowl of warm soup and spoon. He blew on the substance before putting it in his mouth.


“Mmm...it is good, Malik! I feel better already!”


“I’m glad you like it.” Malik said with a smile, quite pleased with himself.


“Good morning everyone.” The words belonged to Seto, who was now joining them for breakfast. “Something smells good.”


“Morning Prince Charming!” Seto flushed slightly at Jou’s pet name for him.


“Not in front of the others, Jou!” Jou pouted playfully.


“Why not? You are Prince Charming!”


“I know I am, but that’s not for public ears.” Duke chuckled.


“Too late now!” Seto realized what had just happened and slapped a hand to his forehead. Duke kneeled down in front of Jou. “What’s the story behind this ‘Prince Charming’ business?” He asked curiously. Jou grinned before shoving another spoon full of soup in his mouth.


“Oh, just a little game we play sometimes. I’m the princess trapped by an evil King and he’s my handsome prince who comes to save me! Right Seto?” He looked up at Seto with a suggestive look, but his husband turned away, slightly embarrassed. “He likes that game!” Everyone shared in a laugh which Seto didn’t like much.


“Maybe I should have just stayed in bed...move over.” He ordered Tristan so he could sit next to Jou. Duke got a bowl of soup next and sat down on the other side of Tristan, giving him a good morning kiss. Malik gave Seto a bowl of soup, then prepared one for himself. Duke made sure everyone had a piece of bread to go with their soup.


“So, the first of the games start today?” Tristan asked, trying to make conversation. Seto nodded, sipping his soup before answering.


“Yes. It will be a day long event of sword fights between challenging men. Today is more of a warm up day to get everyone rallied.”


“Will you be participating in this game, Seto?” Yugi asked, feeding another spoonful to Annar.


“Nah, I’ll be sitting on the side lines with the king, keeping watch for foul play and trickery.” Seto looked passed Malik and saw someone coming their way. He frowned when he recognized them as one of the Oddvar brothers. This one had long red hair tied in a short pony tail, so it must be Mikkel. Since they all had the same features, Seto had a hard time remembering who was who. “Here comes trouble.”


“What trouble?” Tristan asked.


“Good morning ladies!” Mikkel said mockingly as he joined in their circle. “How are all of you this fine morning?” Malik gave the Oddvar brother a glare.


“Who are you calling ‘ladies’, pussy?” Mikkel showed no sign that he was phased by Malik’s insult. He just crossed his arms proudly.


“I couldn’t help but overhear Seto saying he wasn’t going to participate in the games AGAIN this year?” Seto nodded, calmly sipping his soup. Unlike Yami and the others, he knows how to control himself when the Oddvar’s come around.


“There’s no need for me to participate in the games. I have more important things to do than engaged in mindless swordplay.” Mikkel let out a laugh.


“I think you’re just afraid of defeat, Seto!” Seto looked up at the man through this bangs.


“Are you trying to pick a fight?” He asked, his tone becoming slightly more threatening. Jou and Tristan moved over a bit. Mikkel put his hands up and shrugged his shoulders with a mocking smile planted on his face.


“I’m not trying to pick a fight, I’m just saying it like it is. There are many new, young warriors here who could easily put you in place. Warriors like me.” Seto placed his soup bowl gently on the ground and stood up, facing Mikkel. He was a good three or four inches above him. Seto kept a calm exterior, except for the hint of challenge that was reflected in his eyes.


“You have a lot of bark, but lets see your bite. If it’s a fight you’re looking for with me, then you have one. I’ll knock you on your ass so fast that I’ll come back here and my soup will still be warm.”


“We’ll just see about that!” Mikkel said with a slight sneer. “I’m going strait to the king now and issuing our fight as the first of the day!” Seto nodded and sat back down, picking up his soup bowl.


“You do that. Run along now, little puppy.” He taunted with a poker face. Mikkel turned on his heel a walked away from the group, disappearing into the crowds of people walking along the tent roads. Yugi took Annar back from Ryou and handed Malik the empty bowl.


“Do they have any idea how obvious they are being?” Ryou asked, turning to Seto. Seto just nodded and took another sip of his soup.


“They’re just trying to start trouble, Ryou.” Seto told him. “These games are usually the only times the Oddvar’s and the Bolverk’s get to face each other in authorized fighting.” Yugi held Annar tight.


“Should I be worried for Yami now that those Oddvar’s are out and about waiting to challenge us?”


“I wouldn’t worry about Yami.” Seto assured him. “He can handle himself around the Oddvar’s. No doubt one of them will challenge Bakura or Marik.” Seto placed his spoon in the bowl and thought for a second. “Come to think of it, throughout the years of knowing them in the games, not one of them ever challenged Marik.” Malik’s chest swelled with pride and he held his head high.


“They fear my husband obviously! They’re wise to stir clear of Marik!”


“No one wants to challenge Marik.” Seto pointed out. “And I don’t blame them. Marik defines the term ‘berserker’ for us Vikings. You’d think he was in Odin’s Hall with the way he goes crazy during a fight. He does tend to get carried away.” Malik’s chest was still swelled.


“That’s my Marik!” Ryou leaned in to whisper to Yugi.


“I don’t think that’s something to be proud of.” Yugi just shrugged his shoulders, trying to pull the spoon from Annar’s mouth. The boy was going into gnawing mode.


“Malik likes the whole “mighty warrior” thing, so just humor him. It makes him happy.” Ryou flushed a little.


“I like that too...but to an extent.” Yugi blinked in surprise. He hadn’t expected to hear something like that come from Ryou. Jou clung tightly to Seto’s arm.


“I love how you stood up to him, Seto! And you didn’t even get angry once!”


“There’s nothing to get angry about. I know without a doubt in my mind that I surpass him. Now let me finish my soup so i can get ready."


It was mid morning when the first round of the games were to begin. Everyone gathered outside the large arena, waiting for the king to make an appearance. The people cheered as King Olaf made his way up the stairs of the dais, accompanied by five Viking lords of his choosing. Yami was one of them and Ludmund Oddvar was another. Olaf made sure to sit Yami and Ludmund at opposite ends to keep any conflict on a lower level.


Once they were seated, Yami took the time to look around at the crowds of people, searching for Yugi. He spotted his little love and his son with the others, front row center on the right. Yami felt better knowing that they were all together, Keith and Tristan bringing up the rear for protection. He also noticed the other Oddvar brothers on the left, nearly hanging over the wooden fence to cheer their brother on.


Mikkel was already in the arena, twirling his sword around with his fingers. He had a confident smirk on his face as he eagerly awaited his opponent. Mikkel did not have to wait long for Seto, since he was entering the arena now. Seto walked across the dirt to meet Mikkel in the center, his sword still strapped to his belt. Mikkel thrust his sword forward, stopping at Seto’s jugular. But Seto did not flinch.


“Are you ready to fight, Bolverk scum?”


“As soon as the king gives the word. And please, don’t hold back?” Mikkel narrowed his eyes for a second, then flashed him a grin.


“I never hold back! You’ll get to witness me full force!”


“Save those words for when you actually win. If you do, that is.” Both men turned towards the dais to face the king. Yami smiled at Seto’s confidence and calm exterior. This fight would not last long at all. Yami could tell that right away by Seto’s features. Seto never failed to bring honor and respect to the Bolverk family, even if he wasn’t one by blood. King Olaf leaned over to whisper to Yami.


“Keep a close eye on that one.” Olaf told him. “He’s known for dirty tricks, that Mikkel.” Yami chuckled and whispered back to him.


“You don’t have to worry about that with Seto.” Yami said. “He can see right through someone phoney like Mikkel. This fight will be a quick one, I can assure you.”


“I’ll take your word for it, Yami.” Olaf then raised his hand for a few seconds, and brought it down swiftly, issuing for the fight to begin.


Mikkel and Seto immediately began to circle one another, looking for an opening. Jou was now leaning over the wooden fence, biting his nails on his left hand. When was Seto going to draw his sword? He watched nervously as Seto kept his hands behind his back, still wearing his poker face. Jou gave a silent prayer to the sky for Seto to come out safe in this fight.


“Aren’t you going to draw your sword, coward?” Mikkel said in a mocking tone. “Or are you having second thoughts about fighting me?”


“I only draw my sword if I’m being attacked.” Seto answered plainly. “And I just don’t see that happening. Maybe you are the one who’s getting cold feet.” Mikkel growled and lunged at Seto.


“NOW DRAW YOUR SWORD!”

Mikkel thrust his sword strait ahead but Seto simply gave a small leapt to the side, easily dodging it. Mikkel spun around and brought his sword down in a powerful slash, but only met with the dirt. Seto had jumped back slightly and dodged the blade a second time, his sword still in his sheath. He continued to gingerly avoid Mikkel’s rapid swings with the sword, trailing halfway across the arena. Mikkel tried to land another powerful downward swing, but missed Seto completely. Seto dashed around him and drew his own sword from its sheath. With a swing of his blade, he grazed the back of Mikkel’s tunic.

***On the sidelines***


“WAY TO GO SETO!!! I LOVE YOU!!!” Jou shouted happily from his spot, slightly embarrassing the others. Malik stuck his head between Yugi’s and Ryou’s.


“We don’t know him.”

***************

“Huh! So you’ve finally decided to draw your sword!”

“Yes, it would appear that way.” Seto said and swung his sword to his side. “You wanted a fight, you got one.” Their swords clashed together loudly, rising up a cheer from the crowd. Seto’s swings were quick and powerful, pushing Mikkel back with the force. Mikkel was having a difficult time blocking the blows. What infuriated him more was Seto’s smirk, which never seemed to leave. And he held a gleam in his eye, one that showed confidence and mockery.

“Wipe that smirk off your face!” He managed to get out between swings.

“Why should I?”

***On the sidelines***

“Wow! Look at Seto go!” Yugi said in amazement.


“Yay Unkie Seto!” Annar shouted and waved his hands in the air. Marik and Bakura were now leaning over the wooden fence with Jou, watching the fight intently.

“He’s just toying with Mikkel.” Bakura said to the others. “If he wasn’t holding back his skill right now, this fight would have ended minutes ago!” Ryou looked up at him curiously, pulling on his pant leg.

“Is he really holding back, Bakura?” Ryou asked.

“Sure is.” Bakura answered.

“He’s just putting on a good show for us and the crowd.” Marik added. “Now keep watching or you’ll miss it!”

*************

Seto ducked a swing from Mikkel’s sword and delivered a roundhouse kick, knocking the man to the ground. Mikkel quickly rolled out of the way as Seto’s sword almost made contact with his body. He managed to get to his feet again and barely blocked Seto’s next blow. Their swords locked together and they pushed close to one another, fighting for dominance. They pushed each other back slightly, waiting for one to pull away. Seto ducked and twirled around Mikkel’s side, avoiding the swing of his blade. Seto lifted his foot and kicked Mikkel in his lower back, making the man stumble to the ground. The loud, humiliating sound of laughter filled the air.

As Mikkel was on his hands and knees, Seto lifted his foot again and kicked his opponent square in the ass, making Mikkel tumble face first into the dirt. Seto twirled his sword as he slowly circled the fallen man, drinking in the wonderful sounds of cheers and applause. Mikkel jumped up again and went for Seto’s back, but Seto heard his movements. Turning sharply, Seto once again avoided the attempted swing and stuck his foot out, this time tripping him. The crowd laughed again and Seto gave an almost royal bow, basking in his own glory.

Up on the dais, King Olaf laughed along with his people at Seto’s antics. Yami crossed his legs and rest his cheek on his fist, a victorious smirk plastered on his face. He glanced over the other Viking lords to Ludmund, seeing the look of pure embarrassment and anger. Just that look from his arch rival made his day. No doubt Mikkel was going to get an earful from his eldest brother.

“I was wise to have trust you, Yami!” Olaf punched his arm in a friendly gesture. “This fight WAS short!”

“I told you it would be. Aside from my brothers, Seto is an amazing warrior.”


“I never would have guessed that about him. He seems more like the working type.” Olaf thought. “Or maybe that’s because whenever I see him, he’s always reading, writing, or drawing something.” Yami nodded.


“Yeah, that’s what I pay Seto for. He’s the second in command at our castle.”


“Yugi isn’t?” Olaf asked curiously.


“Well, Yugi’s still new to the whole thing so I don’t think he’s quite ready to take complete control. Seto is much more established, trained, and very strict. He keeps me on my toes.” They both looked back into the arena at the two men.


As Mikkel tried to get up, Seto stabbed his sword into the ground in front of his face, just missing his nose. Mikkel looked at the shiny, slightly dull blade cross eyed. Seto then kneeled down in front of him, snapping his fingers to alert Mikkel’s attention to him. His fallen opponent looked up at him with pure disdain, but Seto was unmoved by it.


“You were truly a waste of my time!” Seto practically hissed out. If you insist on calling out highly skilled warriors, I would practice some more first. Or maybe, you should challenge someone more close to your stature and ability.” Mikkel did nothing but glare at him. “I hope you learned your lesson.”


With his last words, Seto turned on his heel and purposely kicked some dirt into Mikkel’s face. As he walked out of the arena, King Olaf declared him the winner. Jou had already taken off to greet him at the entry gate. He saw Jou running to him, swinging his arms happily.


“Way to go Seto!!” He said and jumped into his husband’s arms. “You beat that guy with no problem!” Seto smiled and lowered Jou back onto his feet.


“What did I say about us in public?” Jou frowned.


“Oh, right...” Jou pulled back from him. “Sorry, I forgot. I was just so happy that you won!”

“You can congratulate me, pup, you just can’t jump into my arms like that. Save all that for bed.” Jou grinned and nodded.


“Right! I’ll remember next time, Seto!”


“Good. Now lets go share a victory drink.”


End chapter 3


Bonus Story #1: How Yami Met Seto Yami: 7 Seto: 4 Marik: 3 Bakura 1½


One summer’s morning, the Bolverk family were out taking a stroll through their woods behind the castle. Their mother wanted to bring her family to a pretty little grove she had found while out picking flowers. Since it was such a beautiful day, she thought they could all go on a picnic together. Even their father had decided to come along which was rare for him.


“Are we there yet?!” Marik whined from atop his father’s shoulders, pulling at his hair.


“Not yet darling.” His mother said gently.


“How about now?!” Marik asked again and hopped up and down while still pulling his father’s hair.


“OW! Damn it, Marik! If you do that one more time I’ll take my hand to your backside! Better yet, get off of me!” He picked Marik up off his shoulders and planted him on the ground. He held on to Marik’s tunic back to keep him from running off as he took out some rope from his carrying sack. Marik had a knack for wondering off and they had to keep him on a leash. Marik whined as his father tied the rope around his waist, making a tight, hard knot.


Not long after that, they finally made it to the small grove. Yami helped his parents spread the blanket and ready the food before deciding to run around. Baby Bakura was already reaching for the food and Marik was tied to his father’s wrist. Only Yami was allowed to go play.


“Don’t wonder to far, Yami.” His mother called to him.


“I’m not mother! I’m just going to climb that big tree over there and see if I can see the castle!” His mother gave a look of worry.


“Darling, I don’t want you climbing that tree! You might fall!”


“I’ll be fine!” She turned pleading eyes to her husband.


“Yami, listen to your mother!” Yami ignored his parents and started up the tree, making it to the first branch.


“Honey, go over there and get him before he falls!” He shrugged his shoulders and bit into some bread.


“If he falls, then he’ll have learned two things today. One, don’t disobey your parents and two, don’t climb trees. This will be a self-taught lesson.” A sudden loud *CRACK* echoed through the air as Yami fell from the tree, landing hard on the ground. “There he goes.” He said flatly without looking up, pouring himself some ale. Yami ran over crying to his mother.


“MOMMY!!! I FELL!!” Marik laughed and clapped.


“Yami fell!”


“Aw, my poor, sweet baby.” His mother cooed as she held him with one hand, balancing Baby Bakura in the other.


“Serves you right.” His father said. “We told you not to climb the tree and you disobeyed us. This just proves that you should listen to what your parents tell you.”


“Did you hurt yourself, honey?” Yami nodded and rubbed his bottom. “Aw, you’ll be alright.” She kissed his forehead.


“So you fell on your ass, huh? Petty injury.”


“Darling! What did I tell you about that kind of language around your sons?!”


“Yami, you’ll be falling on your ass many times throughout life, so get used to it. I don’t anymore, however.”


“Yes, only when you’re drunk.” His wife said flatly and hugged Yami close. “Why don’t you go pick mommy some pretty wild flowers for in our bedroom?” Yami whimpered and wiped his nose on his sleeve.


“Okay mother. I won’t go too far, I promise!”


Yami ran out of the grove and into the woods, searching around for some wild flowers. He circled around many of the skinny trees, picking up flowers of all colors. His mother would be happy with all the yellow ones he found! Just as he was ready to head back, he heard a strange sound. The sound of someone crying, and it was close by. Curious, he followed the sounds, wondering what it really was. Maybe a baby animal? Or a ghost?!


Yami was just about to turn around at the last thought when something caught his eye. He tiptoed behind a thick tree trunk and peeked around it. There, right by a large boulder, was a boy about his age, maybe a bit younger. The boy clutched his leg as he cried, pain clearly written on his face. Yami stepped out from behind the tree and walked over to the boy.


“Excuse me?” The boy looked up at him with wide, terror filled eyes.


“What do you want?!” He nearly yelled, still clutching his leg.


“I heard you crying and I came here to see. What’s wrong with your leg?”


“I-I was out-out hunting for-for my daddy, when-when I got-got chased by w-wolves!” Yami gasped and looked around.


“Wolves?!” The boy nodded and cried out.


“I fell down try-trying to climb that-that rock! And my leg-my leg hurts real bad!” Yami looked at the boy’s leg.


“Maybe it’s broken...?”


“I-I don’t’ know! But-but it hurts!!”


“You just wait right here and I’ll go get my father!” Yami turned to leave but his way was blocked by a wolf. Yami gasped and back away a bit, moving slowly like his father had taught him. The boy shrieked in terror and covered his head. Two more wolves joined the first and they all set their sights on the boys. Yami picked up a stick and used it to arm himself. His legs were shaking and his eyes were filling up with tears. He was scared, and didn’t know what to do. The only thing he could was call for help.


“DADDY!!! DADDY! COME QUICK!! WOLVES!! WOLVES!!!”


Back at the grove, his father jumped up from the blanket and drew his sword, hearing his son’s cry.


A wolf came up slowly to Yami, growling low and barring its teeth. Yami trembled in fear and backed up to the boy, shielding him. The wolf snarled at him and Yami shrieked in terror, swinging the stick on reflex to defend himself. The wolf didn’t take kindly to the swing and suddenly pounced, knocking Yami onto his back. Yami looked up into the wolf’s snarling face, bits of salvia dripping from the animal’s mouth. He was going to die!


The wolf let out a yelp as it was kicked roughly off of him. Yami sat up to see his father standing in front of them, fending off the wolves. He killed one easily and the other two ran back into the woods, whimpering loudly.


“Yami, are you alright?!” His father knelt next to him and looked him over.


“I’m okay, but this boy is hurt!” His father looked behind him and saw the smaller boy there. “I think he broke his leg, father.”


“Let me take a look at him.” He looked over the boys leg. “It’s not broken, just sprained.” The boy whimpered in pain.


“Father, can we take him back to the castle and help him?”


“Sure we can. Come on boy, you’re coming with us.” He picked the boy up in his arms gently and took Yami’s hands. “Lets hurry back now. Your mother is probably worried sick.” Yami nodded and pulled on the boy’s tunic sleeve.

“Hey kid, what’s your name?” Yami asked.

“S-Seto.” The boy got out, still in pain.

“Hi Seto, I’m Yami!”

“Leave him alone, Yami.” His father said. “He’s in a lot of pain right now, so let him rest.”

“Yes father.”


It was early in the evening when the doctor had finished working on Seto’s leg. Yami came into the room to see how he was doing. He brought him some bread left over from dinner and a cup of water. He placed the items on the small table next to Seto.

“Hi Seto, how are you feeling?” Seto looked over at him and sniffled.


“Okay, I guess.”


“Are you hungry? I brought food for you.” Seto nodded and Yami handed him the bread, which he started to eat quickly. “Watch it! You almost took off my hand!” Seto ignored him and continued to eat the bread with fervor. “Seto, slow down! You might choke!”

“But I’m so hungry!” Realization suddenly came to Yami.


“Oooh, you’re a peasant boy, aren’t you?” Seto glared at him.


“So what if I am?”


“You speak very good for a peasant. Father says peasants don’t have the chance to learn like I do so I should focus on my studies and combat.” Seto swallowed a piece of bread and stuck his nose in the air.


“My father knows how to read and write! He teaches me all I need to know!”


“Um...okay. I didn’t mean to make you angry.” Yami handed him the water. “Here, drink.” Seto took the water and gulped it down. “My father sent a messenger out to tell your parents where you are. My mother says you are to stay here with us until you are better.”


“Really?” Yami nodded and smiled.


“And you can be my new friend! I don’t have many friends here, so would you like to be my friend?” Seto smiled.


“Okay, I’ll be your friend!!” Yami grinned and jumped up on the bed next to him.


“How about I tell you a story while you eat, Seto? Maybe it will make you feel better?” Seto nodded as he bit off another piece of bread.


“Do you know the one about Thor in Jotunheim?”


“That’s my favorite one!”


“That’s my favorite too!” Yami laughed.


“I think you and I are going to be great friends!”

Bonus Story #2: How Marik Got Avaldamon


“Well Marik, you’re 15 now and I think it’s about time you had a horse of your own.” His father told him as they entered a stable. Marik grinned at his father’s words.


“Really father?! You’re getting me a horse?!”


“Yes, this is my birthday present to you. So go ahead and pick one out.”


Marik walked up and down the aisles of stable pens, looking at each horse carefully. Some were colts, others adults. He wasn’t sure about which one he wanted. He stopped at a pen that had four colts. Two were a rich brown, one was white with spots and the other was black; with a white mane and tail. He leaned over the top of the wooden gate, looking at each colt.


“Maybe I should get a colt and train it myself.” Marik said out loud to himself as he looked at the animals. His eyes focused on the black one, which seemed to be the smallest. The other three were trotting around and playing with each other while the black one laid on the hay in the corner. “He must be the outcast.”


“Excuse me sir?” Marik looked around for the speaker but saw no one. He looked down and saw a young stable boy, holding a basket of oats. “Excuse me sir, but I need to get in the pen.” Marik stepped to the side, now leaning over the pen wall. The young boy went through the gate with his oats, dumping them in a wooden feeder. The colts all ran to it, including the black one, which Marik noticed had a small limp. The black clot tried to get to the food, but one of the brown colts’ neighed at him and nudged him way with it’s head. The colt tried again from a different angle, but the white colt chased him away this time.


“Say kid, what happened to that colt’s leg? Did you notice it was limping?” The boy looked over at the horse.


“Him? Oh, he got into a little fight with one of the colts here. He gets picked on a lot, the poor little guy. I feel really sorry for him.” Marik looked at the colt.


“So he gets pushed around a bit, huh? How old is he?”


“1 year. About the same as the others here. The two brown ones are females and the other two are males. Are you looking to buy one, sir?”


“Yeah, my father’s buying me a horse for my birthday.” The boy came over to him.


“Sorry sir, but the three colts over there have been sold already. Only the black one is on the market in this pen.”


“Stable boy!” Another man joined them who Marik assumed was the owner.


“Good morning sir.”


“Grab that black colt and bring him over to the tanner. I have a captain who’s looking to buy some meat for his dogs. Get on it.”


“Yes sir!” Marik stopped the boy.


“Wait a second, why are you selling him for meat?” He asked the breeder.


“That horse has yet to be sold! Not even any offers! The only thing a timid animal like that is good for is meat. Boy, get moving!”


“I’ll buy him from you.” Both men stopped at his words.


“You want to BUY him? That lump of dog meat in the corner?!” Marik nodded.


“Yes. I came here to get a horse, and I choose that black one.”


“Sir, are you SURE you want this animal? I mean, it’s skinny, weak, timid, no doubt the thing will die anyway. Don’t waste your money, sir.” Marik gave the man a look that froze him in place.


“I want that colt, and you WILL sell him to me!” The man nodded and ordered the stable boy to get the horse ready for Marik. The boy tied a rope around the colt’s neck and led him out of the pen, handing the rope to Marik.


“There you are sir.”


“That will be 30 pieces, sir.”


“Oh, I’m not paying. My father is.” His father came to join them when he saw his son had finally picked out a horse.


“Marik, is this the one you want?” His father asked, kneeling down to look at the animal. “It’s awfully weak looking.”


“I don’t think so, father! With some time and training, he’ll turn into a strong, healthy horse! I bet my life on it!” His father stood up and gave him an warning look.


“Don’t make me waste my money on some lost cause, Marik. Now I’m trusting you on this.” He said as he paid the man.


“Don’t worry father, everything will be fine!” Marik kneeled down to the colt’s eye level and took the furry head in his hands. “I’m going to train you to be big and strong! You will be my horse, and I shall name you Avaldamon!” Avaldamon nuzzled the side of his face gently. “Lets go show you off!” Marik led his new horse out of the stables where his brothers were standing in wait.


“THAT’S your horse?” Bakura said mockingly.


“Yeah, what’s wrong with him?” Marik asked with a slight glare.


“Nothing....” Bakura hid his snicker behind his hand. Yami kneeled down to pet the horse.


“What’s his name?”


“Avaldamon.”


“The only good trait about that horse is his name!” Bakura said with a laugh.


“Just you wait, Bakura!” Marik challenged. “He’ll grow into a fine horse! He just needs time and training!” Bakura scoffed.


“Yeah, okay. We’ll just see in a couple of years.”


Some years later.....


“So, what were you saying about my horse?” Marik asked his brother with a smirk when Avaldamon finally reached his full size. Bakura sneered and turned his back on the overly large horse crossing his arms.


“It’s a coincidence.” Marik chuckled.

“I told you he would grow stronger with my training and look at him now. Nothing but speed and muscle!” Bakura turned his head.

“I still say it was a coincidence.” Marik shrugged his shoulders and pet Avaldamon’s nose.

“Don’t listen to him, my friend. He’s just a big baby!” Avaldamon neighed in response.

“Fuck you both!”


The End