The Viking Brothers

ChibiMisu here everyone! I finally got the next chapter up! Sorry I took so long. Damn allergies were KILLING me!! >_<

Okay, since I’ve gotten so many wonderful res frs from my fellow Vikings out there, I want to repay your kindness with a small gift. ^_^ There are 3 short bonus stories for you at the end of this chapter that focus on such subjects as “Smokey the Cat” and “Tickles the Mouse”. I hope you enjoy them!! Once again, thank you for all the wonderful reviews! They make me so happy!!

Disclaimer: I do not own Yugioh


The Viking Brothers


Chapter 34: Herrick's Castle

Yami’s Room:

Yugi lay in bed, staring up at the stone ceiling. He had Annar and Beowulf sleeping soundly on either side of him. Yugi on the other hand was having a hard time falling asleep. He felt so vulnerable laying there without Yami. Keith was still on loose as the search party came back empty handed and he could be anywhere in the castle! He left one torch lit, hoping it would bring him a little more comfort. However, it did nothing to soothe his fears.

It wasn’t more than an hour that Yugi realized he couldn’t sleep alone like this. Annar and Beowulf couldn’t protect him, so he had to do something. Rolling out of bed, he gently picked up Annar in hopes of not waking him up. Beowulf was fine sleeping by himself, but he had to give Annar to the nursemaids.

Yugi hurried down to the maids quarters and knocked wildly on the door. A young woman answered it and Yugi handed the baby over to her. The young woman took him without question and Yugi knew Annar was in good hands so he didn’t have to worry. Now, he just had to find someone to spend the night with. He wondered up and down the halls, searching for a place to sleep. The halls were dead silent, giving an eerie feel to his already shot nerves. He sped up his walking and hurried down the hall. The first door he saw was Marik and Malik’s room. Marik was big and frightening so he’d be safe and Malik wouldn’t mind him being there.

Yugi knocked lightly on the door, listening for a sound. No one answered the door nor did he hear a sound. He figured they must be asleep already. So just to make sure, Yugi pushed the door open slightly and peeked his head inside. What he saw shocked and appalled him. ‘What are they doing?!’ He thought to himself frantically. Malik was down on his knees sucking Marik’s- Yugi shut the door, turning a bright red.

“It’s more terrifying in there!” He said out loud and hurried away from the door. Now where should he go? The door he came to was Seto and Jou’s room. They were normal enough, and Seto was very protective. He’d be safe with them! Yugi didn’t even bother to knock but just ran inside and jumped under the covers. Seto and Jou both jumped awake, looking all around the room.

“What the hell was that?!” Seto shouted in question. Jou suddenly screamed and practically knocked Seto off the bed.

“There’s a ghost in our bed!!” Seto looked at the shivering lump under the covers and threw the fabric off revealing Yugi.

“Yugi?” Seto said in surprise. “What are you doing here?” Yugi whimpered but crawled in between the two men.

“I’m scared sleeping along without Yami next to me. Please can I sleep with you two!?” Seto and Jou exchanged confused glances. “I won’t be any trouble for you! I’ll sleep at the foot of the bed if you want me to! Just don’t let me be alone! I miss Yami so much and I don’t feel safe without him around. Please can I stay?” Seto sighed and moved closer to the edge of the bed.


“Fine, you can stay. You’re small enough to fit in the middle so you don’t have to lay at the end of the bed like a dog.” Jou frowned as Yugi crawled in between them, blocking him from Seto. “Comfortable?” Seto asked him.

“Yes, thanks so much you guys! I don’t feel so scared now! Goodnight then.” Seto settled down in the bed and Jou followed right after. He still wasn’t to happy about Yugi sleeping next to Seto, but there was nothing he could do about it. Seto says Yugi reminds of Mokuba in some ways and that’s probably the main reason why he let Yugi spend the night. Jou rolled over and closed his eyes, trying to force sleep to come to him.


Doctor’s Quarters:

Duke groaned as his mind came back to reality and woke from his unconscience state. The first thing he noticed was his aching body and the pain present there. He remembered being brought here by Tristan and then everything went black after that. A light snore traveled to his ears from his right and he slowly turned his head to see its source. Tristan was sound asleep next to him, clutching a sheathed sword close to his chest. Duke reached his hand over and stroked his cheek lightly, causing him to stir. Tristan blinked his eyes open then jumped awake as he saw Duke.

“Duke!! Oh thank God you’re awake! I was so worried when you passed out! How are you feeling?! Do you need anything?!”

“Tris...tan-“

”Shh, don’t talk yet. Sorry I asked so many questions. Does it hurt to talk?” Duke nodded took Tristan’s hand in his. Tristan placed the sword against the wall by the bed and pulled Duke close to him, burrowing his nose in the raven tresses. “I’m so sorry, Duke.”

“Why?” He asked in a forced whisper.

“I wasn’t there to protect you when I should have been. I wish to protect you but it always takes a turn for the worse. If I was there I could have defended us against Keith but instead I left and you suffered for it. I feel so worthless...” Duke wrapped his arms around Tristan’s waist and cuddled closer, trying to express his feelings with actions.

“It’s not....your fault.” Duke said in his now raspy voice. “Just...bad timing.”

“I’m not leaving you until you get better! To hell with the horses, the stable boy can take care of them. You’re my main priority!!” Duke smiled and rest his head against Tristan’s, stroking one of the strong arms that held him close.

“I like that....thanks for....staying with...me.”

“This is my duty as your lover. I need to protect you.”

“I’m so...tired...” Tristan kissed his temple and pulled the covers up over them more.

“Sleep lover. I’ll be here when you wake up.” Duke sighed in content and quickly drifted off to sleep knowing he was safe in the arms of his lover.


The next morning, Bakura had woken up late and missed some of breakfast, which left him with the scraps from the kitchen. As he sat down at the dais next to Seto and noticed Ryou was missing, along with Marik and Malik. He remembered wondering where Ryou was last night, but he was too tired to dwell on it.

“Aren’t you wondering where Ryou is, Bakura?” Seto randomly asked him. Bakura snorted and said

“Who the hell cares. We had a little talk and I bet he’s set himself to doing my chores all day long. He’s a good servant, I’ll give him that much.” Seto just shook his head and took a sip of his ale.


“You’re extremely cruel to that boy, Bakura.” Bakura rolled his eyes and stuffed a piece of bread in his mouth.

“Whatever. I do what is necessary to keep the brat on his toes. When you’re working for me, I want you hopping! I don’t tolerate slow workers.”

“You’re nothing but a lazy bum and Ryou deserves better.” Bakura slammed his fist on the table, rattling the goblets and wooden plates.

“Now don’t you start with this shit! I swear, I’m surrounded by a bunch of pansy-ass pussies who are all “lovey-dovey”! Why don’t you all just join hands and go frolic through a flower field! There’s not nearly as much fluff on this egg than there is in this household!”

“Calm down, Bakura or you’ll pop a blood vessel. If that’s what you think, then I can’t change your opinion. You have to change it for yourself.”

“Shut up, Seto.” Seto glared lightly at him and crossed his arms, leaning them over the table.

“I have you all figured out, Bakura.” Bakura chuckled and rest his arms behind his head.

“Yeah sure, whatever.”

“No Bakura, I really do have you figured out. Have you noticed that you’re the ONLY person in this household, group wise by the way, that is unhappy?” Bakura blinked at him, completely confused by his words.

“I’m not unhappy, Seto! I happen to be quite HAPPY with myself!!” Seto shook his head.

“No, you aren’t. We’ve all found our soul mates and are quite content with who they are. I believe you are jealous of the rest of us because we’ve found happiness and you haven’t.”

“I’m not jealous of anyone or anything!” Bakura said, moving his arms to cross them at his chest.

“Yes you are, so stop trying to deny it. We’ve all benefitted from our lovers and most of our personalities have changed. Haven’t you noticed how laid back Yami’s been after he met Yugi? And Marik, he’s cut down on all his whoring because Malik is enough for him. Even I myself have changed since I met Jou. You could too, you know. I believe Ryou is quite capable of making you happy, and if anyone can do it, he can. Maybe you should give him a chance because you might not get another one.” Bakura raised his eyebrow at that.

“Why not? That is, if I wanted a chance anyway.” Seto smirked.

“Well, this morning I saw Marik come down with both Malik AND Ryou on each arm. I’ve never seen Ryou so happy before in all my time I known him. Malik told me that they all spent the night together.” Bakura sat frozen, his eyes blank and his face blue. Seto knew he had struck a nerve. “I think Marik said they were going out in the gardens to relax for awhile. I know Ryou offered to fan him while Malik reads from some fairytale book. If you hurry, you-“


Seto stopped talking when he noticed Bakura was suddenly gone. He looked around to make sure no one important was watching and gave himself a pat on the back. The three little devils told him this morning about their “master plan” and he asked if he could join in too. Of course they accepted his help. He pissed Bakura off enough to get the game plan rolling and he quietly applauded his wonderful strategy. It was all up to the other three now.


The said three devils were sitting under an apple tree in the garden. Marik laid on his back with his head resting in Ryou’s lap while Malik read. Bakura was hiding behind some bushes, peeking through the leaves and branches. What Seto had told him was right! Ryou WAS fanning Marik while he was eating an apple. Marik just looked too happy with the whole thing and that didn’t settle well with Bakura at ALL! They were treating him like a god!! Ryou never did anything like that for him!! Of course, he never ASKED Ryou to do things like that for him in all honesty. He didn’t ask because he didn’t want it! ‘Yeah, that makes sense!’ He told himself.

“Ah, this is the life!” He heard Marik say with sigh and brought his attention back to the three demons. “I have two lovely gentlemen by my side taking care of me. I couldn’t have asked for better company!”

“Can we play some cards when Malik’s done the story?” Ryou asked, still fanning him.

“Of course we can!” Marik replied. “As long as I’m the dealer!” Malik book marked the page with his finger as he thought up a better idea.

“Hey, how about we go swimming? It’s such a beautiful day and you did say you wanted to go fishing, Marik dear.”

“I like that idea better!” Ryou said cheerfully, still fanning Marik.

“You know me so well, minky mink. Okay, you two can swim and I’ll do some fishing.”

Bakura growled low in his throat at the swimming plan. Marik gets to watch his Ryou swimming around naked while he fished on the bank!? Something was HORRIBLY wrong with this picture. Why was Ryou being so “buddy buddy” with his brother?? Bakura knew he was a MILLION times more interesting than Marik! Bakura decided to follow them to the lake and see what is going on between the three. It had better not be a relationship forming! He wouldn’t stand for that! The last time Ryou went to the lake he ended up fucking his cousin! He’d better trail along behind and make sure nothing like that happened again.

At the lake...

Malik and Ryou splashed around in the water, giggling happily as they did. Marik sat on the bank with his fishing rod and their pile of clothes. Malik dunked Ryou under water and waited for him to come up. When Ryou reached the surface he shot a string of water from his mouth strait at Malik’s face. Malik laughed and wiped the water from around his eyes and then splashed a fountain of water at Ryou.

Bakura watched the two playing from his spot behind a large bolder. Nothing seemed to be out of the ordinary except he’d never seen Ryou so happy before. He sure was enjoying himself with Malik and Marik. Bakura had the right mind to storm out there and get Ryou back to doing his chores. There’s no time for fun and games unless HE was involved somewhere in it. But he decided to skip the chores thing and analyze the situation instead. He was curious as to why Ryou decided to hang around with his brother.

“Hey Marik!” Shouted Malik, waving his arm “Come swimming with us!”

“Nah, I’m much happier here on the bank!” Marik shouted back at him. Malik and Ryou exchanged glances and smirked as they started to swim over to Marik. Marik watched them swimming towards him with a curious eye, wondering what they had in mind. Suddenly, both Ryou and Malik splashed as much water as they could to drench Marik. Marik just sat there calmly, watching the tiny droplets of water that fell from the tips of his hair. Malik and Ryou laughed out loud and started splashing more water Marik’s way. Marik grinned evilly and threw his fishing rod to the ground, now completely soaked. Malik and Ryou held each other tightly in mock fear. “That’s it, now you’re REALLY gonna get it!”

Marik jumped into the water and made a loud splash as he did so. Malik and Ryou covered their faces to prevent any water from getting into their eyes. Ryou gasped out loud as he was suddenly pulled down under water and Malik followed soon after. When the two resurfaced again and caught their breath, they realized Marik was no where to be seen. Ryou let out a short “eek” and blushed bright red, then Malik did the same. Marik shot up out of the water between the two and shook his head as a dog would, showering the others with the drops.

“Boo!”

“Marik, you pervert!” Malik screeched at him and splashed some water his way. “I hate when you do that!”

“Oh my,” Ryou started, still blushing brightly “That was...unusual.” Marik just grinned sheepishly and snickered.

“You just blew it, Marik!” Malik told him angrily and began swimming to shore. “Come on, Ryou.” Ryou quickly followed the command and began swimming behind Malik. When they reached the bank Marik didn’t give them a chance to get their clothes. He jumped out of the water and suddenly scooped Malik up in his arms. “WHA?! PUT ME DOWN YOU BIG LUMMOX!”

“As you wish!” With that said he threw Malik high into the air to land in the water. Marik looked back to Ryou who took off in a run, hoping to escape. Marik caught up with him in a matter of seconds and threw Ryou over his shoulder. Ryou shrieked and tried to break away from the demon that was Marik but it proved hopeless. He let out a scream as he was tossed into the water, landing with a large splash. Marik put his hands on his hips and let out a laugh. “Victory is mine!”

Bakura sneered as he watched all this from his new spot up in a tree. What did Marik do to Ryou under the water that made him squeal and blush?! No one is allowed to touch his property but him! That stupid Marik always tries to take what is his! Must be that middle kid syndrome. He couldn’t wait to get Ryou alone so he could smack him one just for annoying him and dragging him all the way out here!

Bakura stopped at that thought as he realized something. If he did that to Ryou, it would only make him run to Marik and Malik again. After what he said to Ryou at the barracks the other dayt hat have made him run to Malik who then ran to Marik. And if he tried to do anything to Ryou, he’d hide behind Marik. ‘That must be Ryou’s plan.’ he figured. Uses Marik as a shield will prove to be quite effective.rt lrt little bastard. The whole thing was probably Malik’s idea and Marik’s under his influence. Figures.

He looked back at the three and nearly fell from the branch at the sight. They were laying on their backs, still naked, and cloud watching! Both Malik AND Ryou were curled up against Marik!! His felt his face grow hot and his vision turn blood red. Gods above!! The last time he was this angry was when he found out about his pet Bolder the Bull! And that was a LONG time ago!

“That’s it, now I’m pissed!” He growled under his breath. “Just wait until I get my hands on them I’ll-WAAA!!” The branch he was balancing himself on snapped under his weight and he fell strait down into a thorn bush. He crawled out from the sticker bush, muttering a mantra of “ow” as he did. He had hoped the others hadn’t heard his fall as he sought a hiding place to tend to his wounds. The only place close enough was the boulder he hid behind before. Now they were REALLY gonna get it!! He’d let them enjoy their time right now, but come dinner time, he’ll give them what for!!


Elsewhere:


It was early morning when Yami and Davin made it to Herrick’s castle by the sea. The journey there was quiet and unadventurous, not what Yami was used too. Usually he would be traveling with his brothers on either side of him, babbling and insulting each other for miles on end. They always were curious and decided to go LOOKING for trouble where they didn’t need it. However, he had to put up with Davin’s babbles about how pretty the land is and all it’s inhabitants. At least now at the castle, he could finally get a break from his cousin and be by himself.

“Well here we are safe and sound!” Davin said proudly as he pointed to the castle. “I’ll ride up ahead and talk with the guard so just wait right here.” He sent his horse into a trot over to the front gate and began chatting with the guards there. Yami watched from behind, waiting for Davin to call him over. After a couple of minutes Davin waved his hand and Yami hurried to meet him. One of the guards took the reigns of his horse and said they’d take them to the stables. “Come on, Yami, I’ll take you to Herrick!”

“Right now? It’s very early in the morning and I don’t wish to wake him.”

“Nah, the guard said he’s up already. Come on, I’ll take you to his room. The sooner we get this done the better.” Davin let Yami up to Herrick’s room and knocked on the door. “Uncle Herrick, may I come in? It’s your nephew, Davin.”

“Come in Davin.” Came a voice from the other side of the door. Davin turned back to Yami.

“Wait here while I go talk to him. I’ll come out when I’m done, okay? He’s become quite sick recently and I want to make sure he’s up to talking.”

“No problem.” Davin nodded and disappeared into the room. Yami put his ear up against the door, trying to hear what they were saying, but their voices were faint. When he heard footsteps approaching the door he backed away. Davin came out of the room and held the door closed just slightly.

“He’s feeling well this morning and is eager to talk to you. Just try not to tire him out, okay? He says he’s feeling fine, but just to be on the safe side-“

”I understand, Davin and thank you for your help.”

“No problem, cousin! I’m gonna go get myself something to eat. I’ll talk to you later.”

“Save something for me, okay?”

“Sure. Have fun!”

Yami pushed the door open silently and peeked inside the room, looking for any signs of Herrick. The room had hardly any furniture in it except a bed, end table, wardrobe, and a chair. Yami noticed a figure sitting up in the bed behind red silk curtains. His parent’s bed had the same curtains surrounding it also and he figured the rest of the brothers had the same too.

“Don’t just stand there, Yami, won’t you come in?” Yami entered the room silently and walked over to the bed. He took a seat in the chair and looked at the man occupying the bed. Herrick had fading long red hair with a beard to match and dark green eyes. He looked heathy enough and Yami wondered briefly if he had all his wits about him. He noticed Herrick was staring at him in a way that unsettled him.

“Hello Uncle Herrick, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”

“For a second, I thought your father had just walked into my room.” Yami frowned at that, hating it when people told him he resembled his father. There’s nothing worse than being told you’re a clone of your parents. *Isn’t that the truth! O.o* “You’ve gotten so big since the last time I saw you! Tell me, how are Marik and Bakura doing? Last I saw them Marik was reeking havoc on the farm animals and Bakura was hiding under your mother’s dress.”

“Oh, they haven’t changed much. Marik is still reeking havoc and Bakura is chasing skirts now rather than hiding under them. Did you know that they were not born from the union of my parents?” Herrick nodded.

“I was one of the only few who knew. Your father had promised to kill any one of us should we had told about his sons true origins. Of course, I held true to that because I’m in the same boat as your brothers are. Did you know that?”

“Yes, Davin told us already that you were adopted.”

“Do your brothers know about their origins?” Yami nodded. “Oh, your father never wanted them to find out. How did they, by the way?”

“Well, my cousin Keith told them the night of the attack. Marik had already suspected it awhile ago but Bakura was still clueless. I don’t know how he’s taking it. He’s very stubborn with his feelings.” Herrick straitened himself up in the bed.

“Speaking of the attack, why don’t you fill me in on what’s going on.”

“Gladly, but first, I have a question for you.”

“You may ask whatever you wish.”

“Pegasus is the source of all this mess our family is going through. Is there any specific reason as to WHY Pegasus would turn on us like that?” Herrick raised an eyebrow as he thought.

“Hm...well, Pegasus was the black sheep of the family, definitely different from the rest of us. Everyone knew he hated your father with a passion but no one knew why. I think he was always jealous of your father since your grandparents favored him the best. They gave him land, farms, servants, a home, everything was handed to him on a silver plate. The rest of the brothers got enough to live off of, but had to marry to gain a dowry of their own.

Since Pegasus was not much liked in the family, even by his own parents, they left him with nothing. He had to fend for himself and start from scratch. Your father got what would have been Pegasus’s share of money on top of his other gifts. That’s the only reason I could think of for Pegasus to attack our home. He was scared about fighting against your father’s strong army and he probably figured he’d wait until his demise to attack. Does this help you any?” Yami stawidewide eyed at his uncle as he pieced together all the information he gave. Herrick had a good reason as to why Pegasus would turn on them like that. A thought came to his head about Keith and the mistake he’d made with him.

“Yes, it helps a great deal....however, I think history is repeating itself.” Herrick blinked at him in question. “I think this whole attack was my fault.”

“Why do you say that?” Yami sighed and rubbed his temples. Everything was coming clear to him.

“It was the day my father stepped down from head of our house and passed the job onto me. I remember I wanted to please him and make him proud of me, so I had to act like him to gain that praise. Keith had come to me that day and told of his father’s farm being burned and the fact that he had no where to stay. I wanted to help him but I couldn’t show any compassion in front of my father, so I did what he would do. I turned Keith away and out of the Bolverk lands for requesting something so simple.

I didn’t want to do it, but father left me no choice. Whatever happened to Keith after that I’m sure left a huge scar in his heart and he wants to kill me for turning him away in his time of need. Both Pegasus and Keith had the same motive so they formed an alliance. We defeated all of Keith’s army but Pegasus’s men retreated.”

“I see how it is, now.” Herrick chuckled and straitened out his covers a bit. “Your father changed somewhat after yootheother died. I was terribly saddened when I heard of your father’s passing. He was the only brother out of the litter who treated me as if I was part of the bloodline. I was safe from the others as long as he was around. I owe him quite a lot and I want to pay him back by helping you, his son, when he is in dire need. You have my army’s backing, Yami.” Yami smiled and sighed in relief, content with the way things were turning out.

“Thank you, uncle, for lending us youry. Fy. Father would probably be as grateful to you as I am right now. Oh, and there’s another thing I have to ask you.” Herrick nodded and waved him to go on. “Why haven’t we heard of you before? I’ve never seen you visiting with the family nor have I heard your name mentioned until Davin. Is there a reason as to why you’re not allowed to be talked about?” Herrick smirked and gave a light chuckle.

“Like I said before, I’m in the same boat as your brothers. I didn’t want myself or your father to be ridiculed should someone tell of my origin. Your father had enough enemies as it was, family or foe. Also, it would upset him if everyone started mocking me for being adopted. The safest thing for all of us was for me to leave the house and go on my own which I did. I came back when you were born but I couldn’t stay long since your other uncles were there. They picked on me a lot and I couldn’t stand to be around them.”

“Were you at my father’s funeral ceremony?” Herrick shook his head sadly with what seemed like a tear in his right eye.

“I was not allowed to attend for family reasons. Your uncles wouldn’t let me come because I wasn’t part of the bloodline. I wish I could have paid my respects to your father.”

“I’m sorry about that, Herrick, but I’m sure father knew how you felt and why you couldn’t attend. So you shouldn’t have to worry too much.”

“Hmm...I guess you’re right. So, aside from that, what is your battle strategy for this predicament?”

“I’m sure Pegasus won’t be leading on a surprise attack next time because he knows we’re on guard now. I will only call for your army if he declares war on us. I’m hoping, that by some chance in the heavens, Pegasus will not strike again and we can all get on with our lives. I’m a married man now with a son and I want only the best for them.”

“Do you mean Tea? I heard she ran out on you.” Yami make a face of disgust at the mention of her and and shivered.

“She did, and I thank the gods every day for that!! She left my son at home and ran off with another man. At least now my son has a mother I approve of who can take good care of him and give him the love that he needs. Yugi is such a gentle soul and I can’t help but love him to pieces.” Yami’s features softened at the thought of Yugi * even though Yugi was mad at him* and his son.

“Your new wife is a “he”?” Herrick asked, slly cly confused. “Well, whatever floats your boat. The most important thing is that he cares for your son as if he were his own. That is a very rare trait in stepmothers, ones who can accept the children from the other marriages and treat them all equally. You are a very lucky man, Yami.” Yami flashed him a smile and nodded.

“Yeah, I know that I am. The gods have been merciful with me despite a few things I had done in the past.”

“Is he a Norseman?” Herrick asked.

“No, he’s English. Angelo-Saxon maybe you’re more familiar with?” Herrick chuckled a bit and laid back against the propped up pillows.

“An Englishman, huh? Boy, if your father was alive to see that, he’d tear you a new one. There’s nothing your father hated more than Saxons, and you’re bringing one into the family. He’s turning over in his grave as we speak. Also, lets not forget the fact that you married a man instead of a woman. He’s probably up in Valhalla banging his head on Odin’s dinner table.” Yami crossed his arms and legs, unfazed by Herrick’s words.

“I’ll deal with father when I meet him in Valhalla, but for this life, I wish to enjoy it by spending it with Yugi and my son. That is all I ask.”

“As long as you are happy, Yami, then that’s all that matters. Your father was quite content with his life after he married your mother. History IS repeating itself.”

“Um...geez, I feel so snoopy with asking you all these questions about the family.”

“No re to to feel that way. If you have a right to know what you want about your family. Please, if you have any questions just ask.” Yami sighed and folded his hands together.

“Well, just how many uncles do I have? Father always said I had a bunch of uncles, but I’ve never really heard about them from him.”

“Uncles? Well, Pegasus is your only uncle that is alive now, aside from me but I’m not part of the bloodline. Your father had four more brothers not counting Pegasus. So all therther, counting me makes a total of seven.”

“Wow...I never expected that. They’re all dead? I know one of them was killed in battle and that was Davin’s father, but the other three I haven’t heard from.” Herrick sighed and bowed his head.

“The other three were mysteriously murdered years ago. Well, all at different times of course. I’m surprised your father never took you to their funerals.”

“They were murdered? By whom? Enemies or assassins?” Herrick shrugged his shoulders.

“We haven’t been able to prove why they were murdered. It could have been enemies since I’m sure they made plenty. We Bolverk’s make enemies quite easily.”

Yami gasped as he had a sudden thought come to his head. Before Pegasus turned on them Yami always remembered him having large amounts of money all the time. He had wondered how he had gotten all that since he never sold or traded anything to make a profit. If Pegasus was so quick as to attack his home, then perhaps he did the same to the others!

“Herrick, do you think Pegasus was the one who killed the other brothers?”

“You know what, you might be right! That makes perfect sense, the bastard!” Herrick growled. “To turn completely on your family is just despicable! The sooner we get rid of him, the sooner my brothers can rest in peace.”

“I can’t thank you enough for offering to help us. This means a great deal to me.”

“Are you planning to stay here for t ort or do need to get back to the castle?” Yami thought for a second.

“Well, it was a long journey and we deserve a rest. If it is alright with you, could I rest here for a day or two before I head back?” Herrick nodded.

“Of course you can stay here. Go find one of my servants and have them set up a room for you.”

“Thank you very much for your hospitality. Rest well now, good day.”


End chapter

Here’s the bonus stories!! They’re not that good, and kinda jump around a lot. -_- I just ry to get to the point fast. Oh, and if you like these, I’ll write up a few others such as “Bolder the Bull” and “Bakura loves Pineapples”

Enjoy!!

Story 1: Smokey the Cat


Yami and Marik were practicing their swordsmanship together with small wooden swords. Their mother watched them intently while holding a squirming Bakura on her lap. Yami suddenly let out a yelp of pain as Marik smacked his wooden sword against his hand. Yami kicked Marik in the shin and ran over to his mother, showing her the quickly forming bruise.

“Put Marik on time out, mother!! He hurt my hand really bad!” Marik ran up beside him, ready to defend himself against any punishment.

“It was an accident, mommy!! Yami was just to slow dodge it!” Bakura clapped his hands and squealed happily.

“Marik gonna be in troubles!” Marik glared at his little brother and growled.

“Shut up, brat!!”

“Now Marik,” Started their mother “Don’t call your brother names. It’s not polite in the least. Now apologize to your brothers and I won’t put you on time out.” Marik stuck out his bottom lip in an angry pout and crossed his arms.

“Sorry you guys.” Marik said in an almost inaudible voice. Their mother patted him on the head and ruffled his hair.

“Good boy. Now you two run along and go play swords some more. Father will be back soon and will wantsee see what you’ve accomplished this day.” As if on cue their father entered the arena, holding something small and fuzzy in his hand.

“FATHER!!” They both shouted as they ran to him. Bakura squealed and jumped out of his mothers arms but ended up falling face first to the floor. His mother helped him up and he quickly ran off to greet his father.

“What did ya bring me!? What did ya bring me!?” Marik jumped up and down tugging on his father’s tunic bottom as he saw the bundle of fur in his arms.

“Not for you, Marik, but for all three of you.” Bakura wobbled his way over and reached his hands up for the object in his father’s hand. “I found this little guy out on the street in town and thought you would all enjoy it.” He held the little grey kitten by its neck hide to show the boys. He handed it to Yami who immediately started petting it.

“Thank you father!!” he said and cuddled the small animal close. Bakura pulled Yami’s arms down so he could see the kitten and pet it. Marik knocked Bakura out of the way and took his spot at petting the cat.

“We can keep him, father?” Marik asked and his father gave a curt nod.


“Yes, but remember Marik, don’t pick him up unless someone is there with you. I don’t want you snapping its neck like you did that chicken.”

“That was an accident, father!!”

“I know, but I hope you learned from that experience. You can’t be so rough with animals, or anyonellerller than you for that matter.” Yami turned his head and stuck his nose up in the air.

“Yeah, what father said!! He hit me on the hand really hard with the sword! See, I got a bruise!”

“You’ll live.” His father said without any emotion. “Now take it outside and play with it. I want to speak with your mother.”

“Okay, lets go guys!” Yami said as the three headed outside to the gardens with the kitten. They placed it down by the sun dial and watched as it began to groom itself.

“What he doin’, Yami?” Bakura asked.

“He’s giving himself a bath. That’s how animals clean themselves.”

“I wanna do it too!” Bakura squealed and started licking his arm. Yami slapped his arm away and flicked his nose.

“Stop that!” The kitten rolled over on its back and mewed up at them, batting it’s little paws.

“Awww!” they all squealed together at the cuteness of the animal.

“What should we name him, Yami?” Marik asked his older brother.

“Hm...well, he’s all grey and fuzzy...how about Smokey?”

“Smokey, Smokey!!” Bakura said and clapped his hands happily.

“Well Bakura agrees. How about you, Marik?”

“Smokey is a good name for him.”

“Then Smokey it is.”

6 months later...

Marik peeked in his parents room, looking around for Smokey. He was tired of everyone telling him he couldn’t hold the cat, so he was just going to pick the animal up and show all of them! Silently, he tiptoed through the room to the little basket bed by the wardrobe where Smokey was sleeping. Smokey lifted his head up and swished his tail back and forth as he acknowledged Marik’s presence. He gently picked the cat up and held it in his arms, quickly tip toeing out of the room

“I did it!” He said in triumph and sat at the top of the stone steps with Smokey in his arms. “See Smokey, I can hold you!!” Smokey gave him a small “meow” and batted at his hand a few times. Marik chuckled and hugged the animal close. “You’re so cute and I just love you!!” Smokey suddenly made a strangled mew as a light “snap” was heard next to Marik’s ear. Smokey now laid limp in his arms, his breathing still. Marik held the animal up in front of him as it just hung there, not moving.

“Smokey? Smokey, are you sleeping?” When Smokey didn’t answer him he shook it a couple of times, hoping to get at least a “meow” out of him. “Smokey??” His eyes widened as he realized WHY Smokey wasn’t moving. That snap he heard must have been Smokey’s spine when he hugged him. “SMOKEY!!!” Marik huddled the dead animal in his arms and ran back to his parents room where tugged on his father’s sleeve. “Daddy! Daddy!!”

“Marik? What the hell are you doing up this late?!” His father all but growled at him. Marik sniffled and held up Smokey by his tail.

“Smokey died, daddy.”

“Oh shit! Damn it, Marik!! Didn’t your mother and I tell you NOT to hold the cat!!”


End story 1

*In loving memory of the REAL Smokey: 1988-1992*


Story 2: Chippy Chipmunk


Yami, Marik, Bakura, Seto and a few other men took a day out of the week to do some hunting. Seto had decided to take Mokuba along so he could learn the ways of the hunt. He rode with Seto on his horse as they killed a number of animals for food and trade. When the hunting party reached a small grove they decided to rest awhile.

Mokuba was chasing the butterflies when he came across a small hole between two rocks. He smiled happily as a little chipmunk hopped out of the hole and looked up at him. It sat on its back legs and twiddled its tiny paws. Mokuba reached into his pocket where he knew he had a spare piece of bread to give the animal. He ripped off a piece and held it out to the chipmunk who actually ate it. The chipmunk leapt into his palm and wagged its little stubby tail. Mokuba giggled excitedly as he got up and ran to find his brother. He couldn’t wait to show him!!

“Seto!! Hey Seto!!” Seto looked over his shoulder at the sound of his little brother’s voice. “Look what I found!” Mokuba showed Seto the animal and gave him large puppy eyes. “Can I keep him?”

“Mokuba, you don’t know where that thing’s been! Put it down before it bites you.” Mokuba pouted and held the small creature to his chest.

“But Seto, it’s only a baby one! Look, he’s not biting me now!” Seto shook his head.

“You can’t think that, Mokuba. It’s a wild animal and it could bite at any time. It might have some sort of disease or on the brink of being rabid. Put it down right now or else no apple pie for you after dinner.”

“But Seto-!”


“Give the brat a break, Seto.” Bakura said, appearing next to him. He wrapped his arm around Seto’s shoulders. “Let him have a pet.” Seto shook Bakura’s arm off.

“It’s a wild animal, Bakura. Hardly fit to be a pet.”

“Please Seto?” Mokuba pleaded, pulling on his tunic bottom. “Please?”

“Mokuba-“

”PLLLEEEEAAASSSEEE?” Both Mokuba and the chipmunk gave him starry eyes.

“How can you resist those eyes?” Bakura asked him and Seto shrugged his shoulders.

“Okay fine, you can keep the damn animal but keep it away from me!” With that said, Seto turned on his heel and went to talk with Yami. Bakura ruffled Mokuba’s hair before following him to Yami. Mokuba squealed in excitement and nuzzled the animal to his cheek.

“Yay, I can keep you!! Now you need a name!” he sat down on the ground and sought his mind for good names. “I know, I’ll call you Chippy! Chippy Chipmunk!” Chippy squeaked and curled up in his hand, beginning to fall asleep. “Are you tired, Chippy? Wait right here,” He placed Chippy on the ground “I’ll go get you something soft to sleep on!”

Chippy’s POV:*******

Chippy circled himself on the ground and curled up, snuggling into the fluffy green grass. He squeaked low when he felt the ground vibrating softly. He sniffed the air as he felt the vibrations become more rapid. A sudden shadow cast itself over him and he looked up to see the bottom of a large boot descending upon him.
**************************

“Hm? What the fuck-“ Marik lifted his foot up behind him to see what he had stepped on. “Aw, shit! These are brand new deer hide boots!! Fuckin’ nature shit!” He grumbled as he took his boot off and inspected the now flattened animal on the bottom of his shoe. He heard a gasp from beside him and looked to see Mokuba holding a pile of leaves. His eyes were misty with tears and his bottom lip began to tremble.


5 minutes later....

Seto held a crying Mokuba as Marik held his boot up over the campfire. He took out his dagger and started scrapping off the remains of the chipmunk. Seto was giving him such dirty looks that it actually chilled his blood. He felt bad for killing the chipmunk but was really worried about what Seto would do to him now that he had hurt his little brother’s feelings.

“Chippy....”


End Story 2


Story 3: Tickles the Mouse


One evening, Yami and Bakura were sitting at the dais table, sharing a jug of ale. This was one of the rare occasions where the two actually got along. They were talking about nonsense when the noticed a small brown field mouse scurry along the table. They watched it silently as it stopped at a few crumbs of bread that lay on the table.

“Aw, look at it!” Bakura cooed, slightly drunk. “Isn’t it cute!?” Yami nodded.

“It sure is cute! I dare you to touch it!”

“You’re on!” Bakura slowly reached his finger out and touched the mouse gently. The mouse showed no fear nor did it seem to care that Bakura was touching it. He stroked the fur of the mouse gently and giggled as he did. “It tickles!” Yami, now on the verge of being completely drunk, clapped his hands together.

“Tickles! That’s what we’ll name him! Tickles the Mouse!”

“Good name, Yami! It’ll be our little pet!”

The two watched the tiny animal nibble on the bread crumbs, not knowing that Marik was climbing up the dais steps. Marik walked behind them and caught sight of the field mouse. With lighting fast reflexes, Marik smacked the mouse flat on the table. It’s tail waved back and forth wildly before it stilled completely. Yami and Bakura just sat there dumbfounded. Marik puffed his chest out with pride and took their jug of ale, quickly gulping the rest down.

“Tickles....” Yami whined as his eyes welled up with drunken tears.

“Yeah...Tickles...” Bakura sniffled.

End Story 3


^_< Were they stupid????