The Viking Brothers

ChibiMisu here! Sorry I took so long to write this chapter! *bows low* I had a bad case of writers block and then once it was gone, I got sick. -_- I had a lot of college work too. Damn papers! >_O I know it’s been about a month, and I’m REALLY sorry!!

Anyway, the battle chapter is finally here! ^^v When you see *~*~*~ that means we’re jumping to a different fight scene, okay? I do jump around a lot in this. >_>

READ ON FELLOW VIKINGS!! *blows war horn* CHARGE!!!! *hums calvary music.*

Disclaimer: I do not own Yugioh

The Viking Brothers

Chapter 39: The Final Battle

Yami’s Room:


It was mid morning when Yami woke up to the sound of Herrick’s army horn. He had fallen asleep some time after Seto had left, waiting for the pain in his shoulder to subside. Yami groaned as he slid out from the bed, wobbling his way over to the window. He looked out at grinned at the impressive army Herrick had. However, he didn't see his uncle anywhere in sight. Herrick said that he would be coming with his men. There was a knock on his door and he turned away from the window.

"Come in." He called to the door. The door opened and Seto entered, all dressed and ready to make an appearance before the army.

"Hurry up and get dressed, Yami!" Seto told him. "We need you out there."

"Sorry, I just got up."

"How's your shoulder?"

"Been better. Have you been out there to greet them, yet?" Seto shook his head.

"We're waiting on you. Now hurry up." Seto sat down on the bed and waited for Yami to get dressed. Yami took out one of his best tunics and tried to slip it over his head, but he had a hard time lifting his arm. "Need help?"

"No, I can do it!" Seto just got up and walked over to Yami, taking the tunic from him. He slipped it over Yami's head and carefully helped him put his arms through the sleeves. Yami gave him a death glare when he was done.

"I won't tell, Yami." Seto said flatly. Yami marched over to his wardrobe and took out his cape, tying it around his shoulders. He slipped his boots on next and fixed his hair a bit.

"Okay, I'm ready."

Yami, Seto, Bakura, and Marik came out to greet the army before their castle. Yami scolded Marik for not bothering to put a shirt on and Bakura just came out from a hang over. Only he and Seto looked presentable. He looked around for his uncle, still not seeing him with army. He began to worry about Herrick. Two young men started to make their way towards them on horseback. Yami didn't reconizge either one of them, and for a split second, he thought this might not be Herrick's army. No, it had to be. The two men stopped before them. One had short black hair and blue eyes while the other had long blonde hair green eyes.

"Yami Bolverk, I presume?" Yami nodded.

"I am." The two men bowed from their horse

"I am leader of the first division, General Alfgeir." Said the dark haired man.

"I am leader of the second division, General Kelsig." The others bowed their heads.

"I am Yami Bolverk, Lord of Bolverk Castle. My brothers, Bakura and Marik Bolverk, and Seto, my advisor."

"Lord Herrick has sent us to aid you in a family battle. Due to illness, he could not ride with us but we are here to take your commands.” Marik suddenly took Yami’s arm and pulled him away from the others.

“What are you doing, Marik?!”

“Can we trust them?” Marik whispered to him.

“Herrick sent them, so I trust them.”

“With all that has been going on, do you think you’re making a wise choice?” Yami thought.

“I’m sure they’re fine.” Yami tore his arm away from Marik and walked back to the two young men. “I thank you for your support in this, good sirs. Seto here will escort your men to the barracks where they can rest up from their journey. You are welcomed to rest with them or stay in a room of ours. Which ever you prefer.”

“I’ll take a room!” Kelsig said cheerfully, raising his hand. “Lame Ass over here will take the barracks!” Alfgeir narrowed his eyes at his companion.

“I will take the barracks to escape from this lunatic. You are welcome to take care of him now. Be warned, don’t let him near the kitchen for if you do, you will be completely out of food.”

“Up yours, Alfgeir!” Seto stepped between the two men on horseback.

“Excuse me, gentlemen.” They both paused in their bickering. “But I will be escorting your army now if you don’t mind.” His words were directed to Alfgeir who nodded in response. “And Yami, have someone escort General Kelsig to a room.”

“Of course.” Seto took the reigns of Alfgeir’s horse as the general shouted orders for the men to follow.


Yugi, Duke, and Ryou sat in the garden with Annar feeding the squirrels. Ryou had snuck them another jug of wine and some leftover bread. Ryou and Yugi figured since Yami would be with the army, he wouldn’t take notice to them drinking. Duke was reading a book he had borrowed from the library, the only one of the three not drinking.

“Ah, I love the great taste of wine in the morning!” Yugi said happily as he took another sip.

“I have to agree with you there, Yugi. I think sitting around together on a beautiful day like this enjoying a nice mug of wine is just the best!” Yugi looked at Duke.

“Are you sure you don’t want any, Duke? It’ll be gone soon.” They both giggled.

“No thanks Yugi. I’m not that big on drinking.” Ryou chuckled.

“I thought all outlaws liked to drink?”

“We do, but I’m not like all outlaws.”

“Why are you here with us today?” Yugi asked curiously. “Shouldn’t you be with Tristan?”

“Nah, he’s working overtime today because of Herrick’s army. I probably won’t even see him tonight. Bed’s all mine!!” Duke smiled at the thought of having the whole bed to himself.

“Don’t you like sleeping with Tristan? I know I always have to sleep with Yami or I’ll get scared!”

“I like sleeping with him when he doesn’t smell of sweat and grime!” Duke answered with a face of disgust. “When he comes in he smells of animals and dirt! It’s not very pleasant.”

“Yami always smells so nice though!” Yugi chirped.

“Bakura just stinks all year round.” Ryou said, then burst into a fit of giggles.

“But Duke,” Yugi started “From sunup to sundown, Tristan is always doing back breaking labor. He smells of hard work.”

“But still-“ Duke started but a hand plopped down on top of his head, stopping him from saying anymore.

“Instead of sitting here reading, you should go help him.” It was Jou.

“Yeah, right.” Duke rolled his eyes. “I hate hard work!”

“Hey Jou!!” Yugi squealed and waved. “We’re having wine! Want some?” Jou sat down next to Duke.

“Yeah sure, I’ll have some.” Jou took the jug and put it to his mouth, taking a quick swig of it. “Damn, that was good!”

“Just don’t tell Yami I was drinking it, okay?” Yugi pleaded with his large eyes and Jou laughed.

“Of course I won’t!” He winked at Yugi and took another swig of the wine.

“So, what brings you out here with us, Jou?” Ryou asked, pouring himself another mug of wine.

“Seto’s been busy with the army so I’m bored. I figured hanging with you guys was the best way to pass the time.”

“Do you know anything about the upcoming battle, Jou?” Yugi asked curiously, sipping his wine.

“Well, I overheard some of the conversation. One of the generals with Herrick’s army suggests that after the warriors rest up today, they should head out tomorrow. Yami agrees with him, figuring the sooner they get this over with, the better.”

“So, we’re attacking Pegasus?” Duke questioned.

“Yes. We’re sending our warriors over to his keep for the battle. Yami wants no more bloodshed inside his walls.”

“But, if the armies go over there, then who will stay behind with us?” Ryou asked with worry written on his face. “What if some of Pegasus’s men come back to attack us?”

“Well, I’m going with them.” Jou said and Duke nodded.

“I’m going along for the fight too.” he said proudly. Ryou and Yugi exchanged worried glances.

“Then, that means it’ll only be you and me here, Ryou! Yami and Bakura won’t let us fight, and Marik’s allowing Malik to fight; we have no one!” Yugi said in panic, quickly gulping down his mug of wine.

“Relax you two.” Jou said calmly. “Pegasus won’t attack our castle because our men will attack him first. You’ll be perfectly safe.”

“But still-“ Ryou whined, looking down into his mug. “We’re going to be here all alone just because we can’t fight.” Yugi sat up strait.

“I know I can fight if I had too!” Everyone stopped to look at him, then began laughing. Yugi puffed his cheeks out in annoyance, a tension knot forming up by his forehead. “What’s so funny?!”

“You!” Duke said with a laugh. “You wouldn’t know what to do with a sword if it was handed to you!”

“Yeah, most of the Viking weapons are as big as you are!” Jou laughed. “You’ll fall over from the size and weight!!” Ryou giggled from behind his hand.

“Sorry Yugi, but I can’t help it! I can just picture you with a big sword, swinging it around with fervor, but not getting anywhere!” Jou grinned and nodded.

“I bet you’re the best when it comes to swinging at the air, eh Yug?” He threw his head back and laughed, making Yugi even more angry. He was angry enough about Yami having to go off to fight and he didn’t need these insults now! Taking a deep breath, he suddenly stood up and placed his hands on his hips. The others looked up at him with amused looks.

“Go ahead and laugh at me, you guys! But remember that I am “Lady” Yugi Bolverk of the Bolverk Family Castle and my power reigns supreme over yours!” he grinned triumphantly. “That makes you three my servants!” They all gave him blank stares, shocked and amazed at Yugi’s sudden rush of control. Yugi was right, he DID hold more power than the rest of them. They had forgotten his position in the castle. All he needed to do was go run and cry to Yami about them and Yami would punish the three.

“You’re right, we apologize Yugi.” Jou told him with his best, calm exterior. “We were only having a little fun with you!” Ryou and Duke nodded with big smiles.

“Yeah, we didn’t mean any REAL harm by it!” Duke grinned and sweatdropped at his own lie. Yugi crossed his arms and humphed, turning his back to the others.

“I won’t accept your apologizes just yet! If you wish to keep making fun of me, then you can do it when I’m not here! So, I’m leaving!” Yugi reached down and took the jug. “And I’m taking the wine!” The others whined.

“Come on, Yugi! Don’t be mad!” Jou pleaded, staring at the jug of wine in Yugi’s arms. “We were just fooling around!” Ryou nodded.

“Yes, and besides, that’s MY wine! I’m the one who snuck it for us!” Yugi put his nose up to them and walked away.

“Good day, gentlemen!” The other three just slumped their shoulders and head, pining over the sweet, sweet wine that was taken from them. Now they had gone and angered Yugi, which in turn, made them lose their wine. Life was cruel sometimes.

Seto’s Room:

“Seto, we need to talk!” Jou said from the bed, his arms crossed with a serious look on his face. Seto slipped his nightshirt over his head and straitened it out before answering.

“What about, pup?”

“You know what, so don’t play dumb!” Seto rolled his eyes and sighed. “I know you’re not planning on taking me with you to this fight! Why not, Seto?!” He whined. “We always fought side by side, why change it now?!” Seto walked over to the bed and blew out the candle, easily slipping into bed.

“Jou, this is a VERY dangerous battle. It will be like nothing you’ve ever seen before. You haven’t experienced enough wars and battles like I have. I know what to expect. This may be our hardest fight yet and I’m only thinking about your safety.” Jou pouted.

“But Malik and Duke are allowed to go!”

“That’s because Malik and Duke are over barring wenches and their lovers are pushovers for it. I’ve always been fair to you, Jou. I’ve given you what you want, when you want it. However, I’m going to have to put my foot down on this. You are not allowed to follow me into battle. Not this time.” Jou turned his head away, his eyes sparkling with tears. Seto took his chin in his hands and turned his face to meet his. “Hey, there’s no reason to cry, pup. We have Herrick’s army behind us and ours. Yugi and Ryou are staying here, so I need you to be strong for them. They need you more than I do, Jou. You know that.” Jou nodded, wiping his eyes on his sleeve.

“Yeah...I guess you’re right. I have your job, I assume?” Seto smiled and nodded.

“Yes. You are now head servant master here. Advise Yugi in anyway you can should something come up, okay?”


“Okay!” Seto smiled and rubbed the top of his head like he would a puppy.

“That’s a good boy. Now go to sleep.”

Yami’s room:

Yugi watched as Yami changed into his night clothes. He seemed very calm for going into battle tomorrow. Yugi wondered if Yami’s wound would prevent him from fighting. That made him worry even more. He had to hold back his tears from Yami, not wanting to upset him.

“Is something wrong, Yugi?” Yami asked, climbing into bed.

“Oh, no Yami. Everything’s fine.” He smiled “Just tired.” Yami kissed his cheek.

“That’s good. I thought you’d be upset about me going to fight.”

“I know you will win, Yami!” Yugi told him happily, trying to hide the sadness inside of him. “Who is going to stay here with me, Yami?” he asked.

“Ryou will be with you along with Jou. Since we have Herrick’s army, I’m leaving a few men here to protect you.”

“To protect me? Why do I need protection?” Yugi gasped. “You think Pegasus’s army will attack here?!”

“I highly doubt it.” Yami told him, rustling his hair. “The only think I worry about is someone coming to attack you to get to me. Now, I want you to listen to me VERY carefully, Yugi.” Yugi nodded. “I want you to follow my orders and not disobey me. This is important.”

“I promise, Yami.”

“Okay. First, you are not to go ANYWHERE without my men with you. They have specific orders to watch over you. Also, it’s your job to watch Jou and make sure he doesn’t run off to follow Seto.”

“Yes sir!”

“Last, I am putting you in charge of the castle. I trust you to take care of everything?” Yugi smiled.

“Really Yami?! You’re putting me in charge?!” Yami nodded.

“Seto believes that you can do it, and so do I. Are you up for it?” Yugi clapped his hands excitedly.

“Yes sir! I will protect my home while you are gone and I will not disobey your orders!”

“That’s my little Yugi.” Yami said and poked his nose. “Now, with that settled, lets get some sleep. I have a big day tomorrow.”

“Of course, Yami!” Yami settled in the bed and held his arms out to Yugi. Yugi snuggled up to him, trying to get as close as he could. The two hadn’t been together for awhile and Yugi wondered why Yami didn’t ask. Maybe Yami was mad from the last time when he refused to make love. He could already hear Yami’s light snores. Yugi still couldn’t understand how Yami could sleep so peacefully knowing he had to fight. If it was himself, he’d be up all night! But then again, he wasn’t a Viking warrior. There must be some kind of philosophy that he didn’t understand. He lay in wonder on that thought halfway through the night.


The next morning, all men had gathered outside, readying their weapons and horses. Jou was still bending Seto’s ear about not letting him fight. Seto was clearly ignoring him and going about his business. Tristan could be heard arguing with Duke about wearing armor. Duke said it would hinder his movements and refused to wear it. [1] Malik had never been more excited in his whole life than he was right now. The two were getting enjoyment out of putting on each other’s armor. Yugi was holding Yami’s sword as his husband talked to Herrick’s generals. The sword was getting a bit heavy and Yugi just wished Yami would get on with it! Seto came up to them, tapping Yami on his shoulder.

“What is it?” Yami asked.

“Yami, everyone is ready to go, but we’re missing your brother.”

“Which one?”

“The youngest one.” Seto replied.

“Go fetch him.”

Bakura’s Room:

Bakura stood in front of the body mirror as Ryou tightened the chest plate straps on his back. Not only was Ryou his personal servant, but now his personal assistant. But in a way, he kinda liked this. He had an excuse to get close to Bakura without the man yelling at him.

“Is that to tight, Bakura?” Ryou asked him.

“No, it’s fine.” He said flatly.

“I wish you the best of luck in this fight.”

“I don’t need luck!” He said proudly. “I will win no matter what!” Ryou slipped his arms around Bakura’s waist, pressing up against his back. “Hey, hands off!”

“I just want you to be safe, Bakura. I’m making you some new tunics for the winter.”

“Fur ones I hope?”

“Yes.”

“By the way, what’s that white thing for over there?”

“Oh, that’s Jou’s wedding attire.” He said. “He asked me to make it for him. I’m making one for Malik too.” Bakura looked at him.

“Weddings? They’re both getting married?” Ryou nodded.

“Yes, didn’t you know?” He questioned.

“Nobody tells me anything anymore. Well, keep up the good work, or something.” Ryou nodded.

“Yes sir. Is there anything else before you go?” Bakura smirked and raised an eyebrow seductively.

“There is one thing...” Ryou blushed lightly and walked over to Bakura, looking up at him. Bakura pulled him close but before they could do anything, Seto barged through the door. The two white haired men looked at him, Bakura with a glare and Ryou with a bright blush. Seto gave Bakura an annoyed look and crossed his arms.

“We’re waiting on you.”

“Ugh. I’m coming, I’m coming.” He looked back at Ryou. “We’ll continue this when I get back.” Ryou nodded and moved away from him. “Lets go then.” He pushed past Seto, who ignored it and followed him out.

“No need to be upset Bakura. This is a very important matter. You can sleep with Ryou another time.” Bakura thrust his nose up into the air with a smirk.

“You’re just jealous because I’m getting some and you aren’t!” Seto gave him a look that could kill.

“Need I remind you that you and Jou are in the same boat?” Now it was Bakura’s turn to give him the death glare. Seto smirked. “You need to do better than that if you plan to out wit me. Pussy.” Bakura stormed off, leaving Seto to follow slowly behind. Bakura stormed all the way outside and over to where the armies were, meeting up with his brothers.

“There you are.” Yami said. “Where the hell were you?!”

“Well, before I was rudely interrupted by Seto, I was getting ready to have a quickie with Ryou!” Yami shook his head.

“Maybe I should leave you home.” Bakura just chuckled and climbed up onto his horse.

“Do you value your life, dear brother?” Yami gave him the evil eye before jumping onto his horse.

“Hey Marik?” Yami asked as his brother hopped onto a brown horse.

“What?”

“You’re not taking Avaldamon?”

“No, I thought it best to keep him here. You know, in case Yugi and the others need to make a quick escape. He’s a fast ride.”

“Well, he’s not going to be a big help stuck in the stables, Marik.” Bakura told him.

“Oh, he’s not in the stables.” His brothers looked at him strangely.

“Then where is he?” Yami asked.

“In the courtroom.” Seto suddenly said calmly as eh passed by them to his horse.

“COURTROOM!?” Yami shouted.

“Relax Yami!” Marik tried to calm him. “I put a diaper cloth under his tail! And I made the younger stable boy carry hay inside so it absorbs his piss!” Yami slapped his hand to his forehead.

“Never mind, lets just start moving.”

“Goodbye Yami!”

“I will return, Yugi. Take good care of Annar.”

“Of course!” He smiled brightly.

“Big brother,” Mokuba started, pulling on Seto’s tunic bottom. “Will you be long?” Seto smiled down at him.

“Only time will tell, Mokuba. But I don’t think we’ll take long. You keep an eye on the pup. Make sure you remember to feed him, give him fresh water, and put him out to the bathroom.”

“Okay Seto, I will!!” Jou glared at Mokuba.

“Traitor.” He turned away with droopy puppy-dog ears and tail.

“Take care then, Seto!” Mokuba said happily. “Promise to play with me when you get back? You haven’t in so long!”

“I promise.”

“Hey, come on!” Bakura shouted. “You guys rushed me along, so lets get moving!”

“He’s right.” Yami said. “Lets move out!” He winked at Yugi. “We’ll be back.”

“Bye bye, Yami!” The three looked on as the army started to move onward.

“There they go.” Jou said, holding Mokuba’s hand.

“Yes. I hope Malik will be alright. This is his first time fighting a real battle.” Yugi said worriedly.

“Marik will protect him. We don’t have to worry about him.”

“JOU! YUGI!” They turned to see Ryou running towards them. “Aw, I missed them!”

“They just left.” Mokuba told him.

“Oh dear, I didn’t get a chance to say ‘goodbye’!”

“I doubt Bakura would care, Ryou.” Jou told him.

“Yeah, I know.” Ryou said sadly. “But I still wanted to tell the others.”

“They know.” Yugi told him with a sad smile.

“Well, lets get our minds off the fight.” Jou suggested. “Ryou, how’s my wedding tunic coming along?”

“It’s coming along nicely. Lets go try it on. I want to make sure I got the measurements right.” The three headed back to the castle but Yugi was still standing there, saying a prayer.

“Come on, Yugi!” Mokuba called to him.

“I’m coming!”

(Author’s note: Lets skip the journey there and just jump right into the fighting! ^_^ It’s not necessary.)

Seto’s division stayed behind as Yami moved his division in the castle first. Malik was to stay with Seto along with Tristan until his army was needed. Pegasus must have been prepared for them since he lowered the drawbridge for the army. Malik walked his horse up next to Seto.

“Seto, should they really be storming in like that? What if it’s a trap?”

“There’s no need to worry.” Tristan told him, coming up to join the two. “The Viking’s style is to just rush into a fight without any thought.”

“But it’s still dangerous! Shouldn’t we go in too!?” Seto shook his head.

“If we are needed, they will call for us. But I doubt they will. Our army is now twice the size of theirs, and we still have more. I don’t want to engage in battle if I don’t have to.” Malik glared at him.

“No wonder you come back from fights without so much as a scratch! You don’t even fight!” Seto smirked.

“Look, I just think of a plan, okay? I can fight just as well as the next Viking warrior, but if I don’t have to, I won’t.” He chuckled. “The Bolverk brothers are more barbaric and rash than I.” Malik turned red with anger.

“So Marik assigned me to YOUR division, knowing you won’t have to engage in battle?!” Seto nodded.

“That’s right.” Malik’s eyes burned with flames.

“Ooooo, now he’s done it!!” Malik hissed. “That’s another nail in his fucking coffin!!” Seto and Tristan moved a few inches away from Malik in case he suddenly burst into flames. Better to be safe then sorry.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Yami searched for his uncle as he easily fought his way through some of the crowd. Pegasus’s men had tried a surprise attack, but it was clear that they were outnumbered. Seto’s division would not be needed, just as he had expected. From the corner of his eye, he saw something white disappear from the courtroom brawl and Yami followed it. Now doubt it was his uncle’s silver hair. Once he had left the courtroom into another gathering hall, he met up with not only his uncle, but Keith too. Yami looked at the both of them, each with an evil smirk on their faces.

“Welcome, little nephew!” Pegasus said and gave him that mocking smirk. “Are you ready to fight with the both of us?” Keith twirled his sword around in his hand, then aimed it at Yami.

“You don’t stand a chance this time, Yami!” Yami looked back and forth at the two, knowing he was outmatched. Both were brilliant swordsmen. Pegasus had more years of experience and Keith was just bigger than him. He wasn’t sure how well Keith could fight with only one good eye, which was probably blurred. Maybe Keith won’t be so hard to fight, but the two together were going to be quite a challenge.

“STOP!" All three heard the voice come from above and looked up. There on the balcony railing stood Duke, sword in hand. "KEITH, YOUR FIGHT IS WITH ME!!" Keith glared and pointed his sword.

"THEN GET DOWN HERE RIGHT NOW, OUTLAW!!" Pegasus sent Keith a death glare. Duke leapt into the air and landed gracefully right in front of Keith. Without any hesitation, Duke lunged at Keith with sword. Keith jumped back and dodged the attack. Yami saw this as an opportunity to fight Pegasus one on one.

"Looks like it’s just you and me now, uncle!"

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Bakura laughed evilly as he sent his sword through the belly of another enemy. He couldn't remember a time when he had so much fun! These men were putting up one hell of a fight, but they were still no match for his skills. He heard the bellow of a man behind him and he turned around, quickly ducking. The man swung his sword but Bakura's fast move left the Viking wide open for attack. Bakura shoved his sword right through the man's chest, emitting a loud gasp. He pulled his sword out and watched the man stumble to stay standing.

Now that his path was clear, he could move on to the next group of unlucky bastards. However, he didn't see the sudden, large body that appeared in front of him and he slammed into it. He fell back on his bottom and let out a curse. A familiar laugh from the person above him chilled his blood. It was those two Vikings who had raped him during the last raid!

“Hey, look who it is! The bitch of the Bolverk brothers!” Said Thorn with humor in his voice. Bakura just sat there, too shocked to move. His legs were paralyzed with fear as the images of that experience came flooding back to his mind. Why was he thinking about that now?! He was fine for all this time, then the memories suddenly come back? This wasn’t like him.

“Hey yeah, it is! I think he came back for more, don’t you agree?” Sigal asked his comrade.

“Heh, I think so! We should give him what he wants! All this bloodshed and fighting is such a turn on for me!”

Hearing those last four words spoken broke him from his state of fear and his first reaction was to run. Which he did. He jumped up and ran through the hallway, hearing the two men close behind him. There was an intersection up in front but before he could reach it, he tripped over something and went crashing to the stone floor. It was the body of one of the men he had killed earlier. Thorn and Sigal caught up to him and he could see their shadows looming above him. He actually shook in fear, something he had never done before.

“Where did you think you could go, Bakura?!” Thorn asked harshly. “You’re on OUR ground now! There’s no where for you to run!”

Both men laughed cruelly, sending a shiver up Bakura’s spine. He was too scared and paralyze to do anything though! They were going to do it to him again! Why couldn’t he fight back!? He felt a sudden tight grip on the back of his tunic and shrieked when he heard it tear. He jumped up in another attempt to run, but one of the men grabbed his hair, pulling him backwards. The force from the pull made Bakura tumble to the floor by their feet. Sigal reached down to grip the tunic with both hands and tugged on it hard, ripping it free from Bakura’s upper body.

“STOP IT!!” Bakura pleaded as he tried to squirm away. Thorn stood in front of him, blocking any chance he had at escaping.

“It’ll feel a lot better if you just give in, Bakura!!” He said with a grin and kicked Bakura’s face with his boot. “Now get on your back and take it like a good little bit-“

”GET AWAY FROM MY BROTHER!!” Thorn turned around to see who it was and was met with a fist to jaw, sending him flying backwards right into Sigal. Both men nearly fell to the floor but managed to retain their balance. Bakura looked up to see Marik standing over him, sword in hand. His brother reached behind him and took out his large battle axe, twirling both weapons around his fingers. “You didn’t succeed this time, huh!?” Marik shouted at them angrily. Bakura hurried to his feet and hid behind Marik, clutching at the back straps of his chest plate.

“Aw look, big brother’s come to the rescue!” Sigal said with sarcasm as he pushed Thorn away from him. He took out his sword and Thorn did the same. “You don’t really plan to take us both on, do you?!” he laughed. “To fight the both of us would be a suicide!” Marik grinned manically at the both of them.

“I can take the both of you on with no trouble at all! I’m known for defeating groups of warriors single handedly! What makes you think that you’re both unbeatable? You’ve never been in combat with me before!”

“First time for everything!” Thorn replied, wiping the blood from his mouth. Bakura buried his face in Marik’s back, unsure of what to do.

“We’ll defeat you first, then we’ll let you watch us bang your little brother black and blue!” Marik growled and pointed his sword at the two men.

“You’ll lose your hands before you’re able to lay a finger on him!” The two men didn’t seem fazed by his threat.

“Time to fight!!” Sigal suddenly shouted and dashed at Marik, sword raised to the side for a swing.

“BAKURA! RUN!!” Marik hollered at his brother as he blocked the swing of the sword. Bakura backed away from Marik, still startled from the rape attempt. “I SAID RUN!! RUN DAMN IT!!” Marik blocked another blow from Thorn with his battle axe and managed to do the same with Sigal’s next sword swing. Bakura nodded and turned the corner, running for the nearest cover he could find.

Back and forth the weapons swung, each one blocked by Marik’s battle axes. The two men were coming on to him pretty fast and it didn’t give him much time to find an opening to strike. Their quick sword swings and fancy footwork only allowed him to block. Marik suddenly ducked down between the two, hoping they would strike each other with their swords. He hissed when they stopped their swords before they could make contact.

One of the blades slicked Marik’s arm, making him hiss in pain. Thorn suddenly slammed him into the wall with his body, nearly knocking the breath out of him. Marik pushed the man back and just missed Sigal’s blade aimed at his neck. Marik swung his axe and managed to hit the man’s shoulder. Sigal stumbled backwards, bellowing in pain. Thorn lifted his sword but Marik caught the movement from the corner of his eye and blocked with his other axe. Then, he lifted his leg and gave a hard, swift kick in the gut. The force of the kick knocked Thorn to the ground, trying to catch his breath.

Now Marik could fight one on one with Sigal. Sigal tried to lift his sword to swing but the pain from his shoulder wound prevented it. This gave Marik the perfect opportunity to strike. With a mighty swing of his axe, he embedded the blade into Sigal’s chest. Sigal stumbled around a bit before falling back on the floor. Marik stood over his almost dead body with his hands on his hips.

“Well, well, it seems I have implanted my blade into you. An eye for an eye.” Marik said with grin before lifting his foot and planting it right on top of the gaping sword wound. Sigal let out an animalistic sound as Marik started to grind his boot deeper and harder into the wound. “I’m sure this is what my brother felt when you raped him! Payback’s a bitch!!” And he spat on him. Thorn finally caught his breath and grabbed his sword, ready to avenge his fallen friend. He aimed his sword at Marik’s back but before he could strike, a voice rang out.

“MARIK, LOOK OUT!” Marik turned around to see Thorn with a sword threw his heart. The sword was quickly pulled out of the man’s flesh and he fell to the floor. Bakura stood with his bloodied sword, glaring down at the man.

“Bakura!” Marik shouted in surprise. “I told you to run away!”

“I thought about it, but I couldn’t leave you here to fight them all by yourself!”

“As you can clearly see, I was doing just fine on my own.”

“Not by that last performance!” Marik hmphed.

“I knew he was there all along!” Bakura just shook his head and looked down at the two now dead bodies.

“Hey, Marik?”

“Yeah?”

“I...I would appreciate it if we keep this whole thing between us. You know, the part with me...running from a fight?” Marik smiled and suddenly brought his little brother into a head lock, giving him a hard noggie.

“That’s a promise!” Bakura pulled his head out from under Marik’s arm, rubbing the top of his head.

“You haven’t done that to me in years!” Marik grinned.

“Come on, there’s still a battle to be won!”

“Right behind you!” Bakura said confidently, now completely free of his fear.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~*

“HOLD STILL YOU LITTLE SLUT!!” Keith shouted at Duke as the outlaw climbed up a large tapestry. Duke jumped onto the back of a large stuffed bull’s head, balancing on it with cat-like grace.

“You’re just to slow, Keith!” Keith took the bow and arrow from a dead body and aimed it at Duke. Duke just grinned and leapt into the air as Keith let loose the arrow, landing on another stuffed bust, this one an elk. “Ha! Missed me!!” He taunted, enraging Keith further. He took another arrow from the dead man’s quiver and aimed it at Duke, letting it fly. Duke did a flip this time and landed on the stone steps leading to the upstairs balcony. Keith drew his sword and took off up the steps, seeing this as chance to get at Duke.

Duke twirled his sword and balanced himself on the steps, preparing for Keith’s strike. Keith let out a battle cry and thrust his sword forward, but Duke jumped to the side to avoid it. Keith brought his sword around again but Duke jumped up over the blade, missing it by mere inches. He dived under Keith’s legs and popped up behind him, pushing the man with all his weight into the wall. Keith let out a grunt as he was slammed into the wall, but it didn’t stop him. He saw Duke try to run up the steps but he wasn’t about to let the outlaw get away from him that fast. He may not be able to see as well, but Duke’s dark green tunic stuck out like a sore thumb.

Keith lunged at the moving figure and managed to grab Duke’s ankle, causing the boy to land roughly on the steps. Keith grinned when he heard Duke’s yelp of pain and he yanked Duke’s ankle back harshly, pulling his body down the steps as he did. Duke tried to grip the edge of the steps and pull out of the grip, but Keith was just too strong for him. Using his other leg, he cocked it back as far as he could and kicked Keith in the gut with all his might. Keith took in a deep gulp of air as the pain made him double over and loosen his grip on Duke. Duke pulled his ankle free and then sent the heel of his foot into Keith’s face, knocking the man backwards down the steps. Keith landed at the bottom of them and groaned, trying to push himself back up. Duke stood at the top of the steps, breathing heavily.

“Damn you...” He muttered as he stood up, a bit wobbly on the legs. “Get back down here! You and I are not done!”

“You have to catch me first!”

“You’re such a coward! Instead of running away from me, why don’t you fight me!? This constant running and jumping is clearly a sign of fear! Admit it, Duke! You’re frightened of me!” Duke glared at him.

“I’m scared of no one!” He said with his hands on his hips.

“Then get down here and fight me!” Duke hesitated for a moment but was not about to let Keith win this battle. He jumped down from the steps to the floor, staring strait at Keith.

“Pick up your sword so we can continue this!” Keith put his hands on his hips and glared.

“I don’t need a sword to take care of you.” Duke let out a laugh.

“Then you will die!” Duke swung his sword at Keith but what happened then made him gasp out loud. Keith had caught the blade in his hand, his blood dripping down the edge of the sword. He pulled the sword away from Duke and threw it across the room, hearing it slide along the stone floor. Duke turned to run but Keith grabbed him by his pony tail and yanked him backwards.

“I knew you would fall for that!” Duke struggled in his grip.

“Let me go!” He pleaded but Keith ignored him and suddenly threw Duke over his shoulder.

“Come on, we have something to do!”

*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Yami swung his sword swiftly, nearly knocking Pegasus over with it's force. Pegasus lifted his sword and it clashed with Yami's, sparks flying. The crowd of fighting Vikings started to make their way towards the two leaders. Yami saw this out of the corner of his eye and knew it would be more difficult to fight Pegasus with a crowd around. He clashed his sword with his uncle’s and jumped back, heading down the second floor steps. Pegasus followed him down the stairway and the two met their swords again, now completely secluded.

The two moved up and down on the steps, their swords clashing together loudly. Yami spun his body around and took a sharp swing, hoping to hit his target with more power. Pegasus leaned back and just missed the sword, but he felt the wind from the force of swing. Pegasus lifted his sword and brought it down swiftly, but Yami threw his up and blocked the blade. Both men pushed their weapons together with all their strength, hoping to push the other back.

“This ends now!” Pegasus hissed at him.

“Only for you!”

Yami slides his blade quickly from the sword lock, throwing himself into Pegasus’s abdomen. He lifted his uncle over his head and sent the man tumbling over the steps. Pegasus landed at the bottom with a tight hiss of pain. Yami jumped down from the side and landed a few feet away from him. Pegasus ignored the pain from the fall and got into a defensive stance. His sword was by Yami’s feet.

“Pick up your sword, uncle, for we are not yet done this fight.” And he kicked the weapon back to Pegasus with a smirk. “This is a fight to the death!” Pegasus glared at his nephew and lunged at him, his sword out strait. Yami blocked the strait thrust and moved to the right, leaving Pegasus open for a strike. Pegasus did a quick turn but Yami ducked, avoiding the blade.

Their blades met and echoed throughout the empty room. Pegasus lifted his foot and jabbed it into Yami’s gut, sending him fumbling backwards into a n iron candle stand. He knocked the stand over and somehow it landed over top of him. The rim where the candles stood kept he object from crushing him. Pegasus brought his sword down to strike but Yami used the iron stand to shield himself.

“It seems the tables have turned, dear nephew!” Pegasus spat him.

“Not for long!”

Yami rolls out from under the stand and jumps up, thrusting his sword towards his uncle. Pegasus moved back from the thrust and Yami jumped over the candle stand, giving his sword another swing to his uncle’s. Pegasus is now the one being pushed back by Yami’s blows. He was backed into a wall but he spotted a torch in arms reach and grabbed it, using it to block Yami’s downward swing. Pegasus swung the flame at Yami’s face but Yami countered and knocked the torch from his uncle’s hand. He managed to slice Pegasus’s hand in the process and Yami gave another side slash, grazing the chest this time.

Pegasus hissed in pain and jumped out of the way, avoiding another of Yami’s blows. He broke out into a run, heading for the steps that led up to the second floor. It would be easier for him if they had to fight in a crowd. But Yami was swift on his feet and met up with him before he could make it halfway up the steps. Pegasus turned around just in time to block Yami’s blow. Pegasus lifted the sword above his head and brought it down but Yami twirled around him, making the sword hit the step. Pegasus suddenly spun around with his sword outstretched, knocking Yami’s sword out of his hand. The sword hit the wall and then clattered as it rolled down the steps, landing with a loud ‘clack’ at the bottom. Pegasus pointed his sword at Yami’s jugular.

“Looks like I win again, dear nephew!”

End chapter 39

*wearing suit of armor* Sorry about the cliffy!! PLEASE DON’T KILL ME!!!!

My fingers hurt from all this typing..... T_T

[1] The Vikings never really wore armor. They usually wore just helmets. Only the elite warriors wore chest plates and arm guards.