And thus, the true origins of Eden finally come to light. And before it comes up, yes, I may have been influenced by the Avatar and the Firelord episode. Buckle up, folks, this is a long one. I own nothing.
Chapter 45: Reliving the Past

(Y/N) groaned as she felt her consciousness slip back. A blanket was over her and she saw a wooden roof above her.
What had happened? The last thing she had remembered was the train derailing, Yami trying to protect her, and...
A gasp caught her attention as she looked to the side to see Yami sit up in a separate, makeshift bed. Tea and her gramps were also in beds, but they hadn't woken up yet.
"Yami?" She asked.
"Rain!" He said, sounding relieved. "Are you all right?"
"I think?" She answered sitting up. "What happened though? I thought we went off a cliff or something. How'd we end up here?"
"You summoned Kuro, didn't you? I think she was the one who rescued us, though that doesn't explain how we ended up in here."
Rain brought her knees to her chest. "I didn't summon Kuro. It was Eden who did it."
"Did she speak to you?" He asked.
"She's been trying to. I...I haven't exactly been letting her in. I didn't want to, but we need her help." Yami sighed, looking at the ground. "Yami, listen to me: what happened on the train can't happen again. You need to pull yourself together, because I can't do this alone."
He looked at her guiltily. "Rain..."
She steeled herself, putting on a more determined look. "We'll get them back, I promise you we will get them both back, but if both of us wallow in guilt and spiral, there won't be anyone left to save them (sorry Joey, not you Seto). If we want any chance to save them, we have to work together."
The former pharaoh didn't say anything for a bit, but eventually, he nodded. "Okay, you're right. I trust you."
"Ugh." Carter moaned, waking up. "I haven't felt this out of it since that bachelor weekend in Vegas. You kids do this often?"
Tea, by now, was also up and she gave a nervous laugh. "Well, I wouldn't say it's a habit."
"Certainly happens more than it should." Yami muttered as Carter looked around.
"So, where are we?"
A bark came from the entrance and everyone turned to see a large, white dog running in. It was immediately drawn to Rain (who was separated from everyone else), tackling her down.
"Rain!" Yami shouted, shooting up.
The Wayfarer girl was laughing as the dog licked her face and cuddled her, her tail wagging happily. Carter facepalmed.
"And we just got out of her wanting a pet phase."
The dog eventually let her sit up, and Rain immediately began scratching her neck, baby talking the animal.
"Aw, hey there, girl! Were you the one who saved us? I bet you were! Such a smart and pretty girl!"
The dog (wolf dog in Yami's eyes) barked happily, licking Rain's face again.
Yami coughed awkwardly. "Rain, maybe you shouldn't be petting strange wolves?"
"Aw, don't mind him, cutie. He's just missing some important people to us." Rain then smirked mischievously. "You know what I think he needs? A big old kiss!"
The dog seemed to obey her every word as she play bowed in Yami's direction, who began to slowly back up.
"No, no, no, Rain, don't you-," The poor former pharaoh got bodied by the white hound, who began drenching his face in kisses, making him glare in his friend's direction. "I swear I will get you for this."
"Tick tock, Pharaoh. The minute we save your wife, you ain't touching me."
He grumbled, knowing she was right. "I'm starting to remember being a cat person."
Fortunately, Yami didn't have to suffer too much as a child's voice called out.
"Skye! Get back here! Skye!" A young girl then peeked into the tent. "That's no way to treat our guests! Sorry if she woke you up."
"No problem, dear." Carter assured. "Though, who are you?"
Rain looked at the girl as she felt static in her head. She saw flashes of a garden, and of Eden demonstrating magic to some students when a child's voice called out to her.
"Eden!"
Shaking her head, she saw the child looking at her expectantly.
"You can call me Chris." The dog then ran to her owner. "And you've already met Skye. She's the one who found you. Well, she found that scary owl you were with, anyways."
"Oh, right, Kuro." Rain remembered. "Uh, she and the other spirit wouldn't happen to still be around?"
Chris nodded. "Yup! They're with my grandfather. Come on! I'll introduce you!"
Chris ran out with Skye trailing after her. With little option, and not wanting to be rude, the group of four followed out. Ori immediately appeared and situated himself on (Y/N)'s shoulder. Yami took note how Chris and Skye seemed to gravitate towards Rain, the young girl even taking her hand and leading her forward. It definitely set off alarms in his head, but he remained quietly cautious as the two led them to an old man with a staff collecting cards by the river, Kuro peering over him. He turned to look at them.
"I see your strength is back."
"Yes, thank you." Yami said.
Rain narrowed her eyes at the old man. Like Chris, there was something eerily familiar about him, especially as he seemed to smile at her specifically.
"You four had me worried. The name is Ironheart."
The name beat like a drum in Rain's head as she flinched, something Carter noticed right away.
"You all right, dear?"
She nodded, patting Ori. "Yeah, just my head."
Chris and Ironheart looked at each other discreetly as Skye walked up to the Wayfarer, brushing against her leg in a comforting manner.
Ironheart handed off a deck of cards to Yami, the Eye of Timaeus at the top revealing it was his own deck.
"I believe this belongs to you."
Yami narrowed his eyes at the card on top of the deck, reach out to take them back. As his fingers brushed the cards, he heard voices, echoing from some distance.

"I...have a favor to ask of you."
It was a voice he did not recognize, but the one that huffed after sounded a bit like Ironheart.
"We are to march tomorrow, Legendary Knight. I hope you will not expect too much of this old man."
"I do not ask for much. Tomorrow could likely be our last day, and I wish to be selfish with my time with her."
The voice sounding like Ironheart chuckled. "It is not selfish to covet time with the one you love, especially if you know that time is limited."

Yami shook his head, the voices disappearing as Ironheart gave him a suspicious look.
"Pardon me for being intrusive, but I couldn't help noticing you possess the Legendary Eye of Timaeus, the only one of its kind."
"You know about that card?" Carter asked as Yami headed it to the old man.
"Take it. I'm not deserving of its power."
"That's not true." Tea argued.
Rain looked at him. "Yami, I know what's running through your head, believe me I do. But if we want any shot at winning this, you have to forgive yourself and make amends with Timaeus."
"I don't think I can, Rain."
Ironheart took the card. "I'll hold it until you're ready."
"By the way..." Tea intruded suddenly, remembering something everyone else has disregarded. "Did you find another kid? He had glasses and a bad haircut?"
"Yes, though your feathered friend here insisted he be separated from the rest of you. We sent him to a nearby settlement with a hospital. However, he did not seem well. It was like he was a corpse."
"More than he deserved..." Rain murmured, getting a bonk from her grandpa. "I'm not wrong! Anyways, I'm shocked Kuro stuck around here. She's usually more inclined to listen to...a friend of mine."
"Despite what her chilling demeanor may say, I believe she cares deeply for you." Ironheart assured. "She wouldn't let go of the train until she found us."
Rain looked up at Kuro, feeling a sense of loyalty from her. Despite her misgivings, the owl did always come through for her when she needed her.
"Kuro would not bow to a duelist who was unworthy." Yami said, noticing her hesitation. "She trusts you, Rain, and she seems determined to help."
Kuro let out a hiss, but not one that was threatening. Ori chattered back as Ironheart glanced between them.
"I must say, young man, you seem to possess a wisdom that reaches far beyond your years. As for you, young lady, I can sense a great power emanating from within your very soul. And those runes on your arm would not appear for just anyone. I've encountered many people in my travels, but there's something about the two of you I've never...well," He glanced at Rain. "Perhaps something I've rarely seen before. I also sense that you are holding great guilt and loneliness in your hearts."
The two glanced away from each other.
"We've lost two people dear to us." Yami explained. "One is our dearest friend, and the other is the woman I love. We're on a journey to find them again."
"What will you do if you find them?"
"Apologize for betraying his trust and abandoning him."
"For not listening to her." Rain added. "And letting her be taken."
"Hmm, I might just be able to help. Follow me."
Ironheart turned to lead them towards the canyons. Carter and Tea looked to Yami and Rain for confirmation. They were hesitant at first, but Ori leapt from Rain's shoulder and motioned his head to follow after their guide, Kuro gesturing with her wing. Deciding to put their faith in the spirits, the duo nodded to their companions, though they stayed back a moment to speak.
"Yami, he...all of them...they feel familiar to you two, right?" Rain asked.
He crossed his arms and nodded. "Yes. It's not like the usual return of my memories, but I do feel as though we've met them before."
"This could be really bad."
"At this point, I don't think we have any other choice."
With few options but to trust in Ori and Kuro's judgments, they followed Ironheart, Chris, and Skye into the canyons, climbing up some rather narrow paths for how high up they were.
"Um, Mr. Ironheart?" Tea asked as they all hugged a wall. "Where are we going?"
"Patience, my dear friend."
At that moment, a piece of the ledge came off, nearly sending the brunette plummeting.
"Tea!" Both Yami and Rain shouted, pulling her to safety as they watched the rocks plummet in the cavern.
"Did I mention to watch your step?" Chris bashfully asked as the teens all gave her looks. "Oh, and it's probably better if you don't look down."
Even with Kuro flying beneath them, they weren't exactly ready to test the dread owl's reaction time...or generosity.
"Don't worry." Ironheart assured. "Our destination is not very far from here at all."
"I'll hold you to that." Carter said as Yami tilted his head.
"What happens when we arrive?"
"We'll have crossed over to the other side, to the place where the spirits dwell." As Ironheart led them, Rain thought she saw a hooded figure up the road, identifying Eden from her Willow staff. "You see, my people believe that human souls exist all around us, and just beyond this mountain is a sacred valley where drifting souls are said to gather as they wander along."
"And...you believe both of them may be there?" Yami asked, a tinge of desperation in his tone.
"Perhaps, but there are evil spirits there as well. Finding the soul you seek is easy, leaving with your own is another thing."
"You sound as if you speak from experience." Carter said.
"I...have been searching for a friend of mine for a long time now." Ironheart stopped at a ledge overlooking the valley. "It's not too late to back out."
Yami shook his head. "I must go. I owe it to Yugi."
Just then, Kuro landed before them, looking at Rain intently.
"What's going on?" Tea asked as Rain looked up at her monster.
"Kuro?" Ori then jumped on her shoulder, pointing at the owl's back. "You two want to show me something?"
The two nodded as Kuro turned. Carter immediately pushed forward.
"No, absolutely not! Rain, you are not going off on your own while your head is still injured!"
"He's right." Yami agreed. "The last time we split up-,"
"I won't be alone." Rain said sternly. "These two...have never left me alone. Besides, Ori and Kuro fought alongside Eden. If anyone can show me something about her that could help us, it's them!"
"To earn the loyalty of a spirit is to have their help even through lifetimes." Ironheart stated. "These two are bound to you far beyond mistress and spirits. They will not lead you astray."
Rain placed a hand over her heart. "I...I have to put my faith in the spirits that have been with me. The spirit that mom and dad left me, and the spirit that nurse wanted to give me strength. I promise, I will be fine."
Carter and Yami looked like they wanted to protest, but Tea cut in front of them, nodding to her friend.
"Go. If you need to, do it. We'll be there when you get back."
Rain nodded and turned to Kuro, only for Chris to reach out a tie something to her wrist. It was an old bracelet, woven in a wave pattern and flowers which Rain recognized as peonies. Chris looked at her with a look that left a pain in her heart.
"Please...find her."
Rain did not know why she instinctively knew that Chris knew who she was going to search for, but as she said, she'd put her faith in Kuro and Ori. She nodded and then, after allowing Ori back onto her shoulder, mounted Kuro, who took to the skies. The owl flew for a time over the valley, the wind being the only sound between the party of three. In the silence, Rain began to doubt her choice, but she kept firm to her decision. Eventually, Kuro dove, landing in a clearing that didn't seem all that remarkable. Sliding off the owl's back, Rain looked at her, confused.
"Here? Are you sure?"
She nodded as Ori chattered, pointing at a massive and clearly ancient tree, peonies blooming around it. Approaching cautiously, Rain stepped over the flowers and approached the roots of the tree. Its branches were covered in white and red blossoms along with pods. She reached out her hand as a pod fell into it. She took a whiff and recognized it.
"An almond tree? Why show me this? Was it...was it important?"
Just then, Rain felt herself pulled away into a memory.

The night sky was lit up by a blanket of stars, hung with a warning moon above. The almond tree was practically white with the amount of blossoms hanging from its branches as two men stood beneath it, one Rain recognized as Timaeus, though only because of his armor. There were a row of torches leading to them, on one side was Hermos and Critias, and on the other was Ori, Kuro, a monster Rain recognized as Silver Fang, and a fourth just hidden out of sight in the shadows. A woman then appeared at the end of the line of torches. It was Eden, her staff missing and her hood finally pulled down. Unsurprisingly, she looked just like Rain and (Y/N), but unlike the two of them who could be mistaken as identical, there were notable differences for Eden. For one thing, her eyes were purple, and her facial structure didn't quite align with hers or (Y/N)'s. Her (H/C) hair had been waved together in a crown of peonies. She walked with dignity towards Timaeus, an almost bittersweet expression on her face as he received her with a smile. The two took hands and placed their foreheads together as Rain realized what this was.
"A wedding."
The man behind them spoke, also being indistinguishable in the dark. "Beneath the eyes of the gods and in the presence of the spirits, we come to bind these two souls, of different worlds, together. As we approach a march into the dark, we chose not to lament the coming death, but to celebrate life and its greatest treasure: love, for love alone endures and conquers even death. This ceremony shall bind these two together, to share their sorrows, their hardships, their shortcomings, but also their triumphs, their joys, and their lights. Beneath this tree, I ask you both to recite the vow."
"In life, in death, in all lives to come, my being is tied to yours." They two said in unison. "My strength is your strength; my fortune is your fortune; and my life is your life, for it is you alone I devote myself to."
"I call upon the gods, the spirits, and the ancestors to look upon these two who have vowed their entire being to each other. May their bond never be torn, even under the shadow of death. In the name of my kingdom, I bind you as one: husband and wife."
The two kissed passionately, but desperately, as though they knew this would likely be the last. A pair of ravens flew over them, one of their feathers lodging into Eden's hair. As the vision faded, Rain saw the bracelet tied to Eden's wrist, one that was remarkably similar to the one Chris had given her.

"That was right before the battle." Rain said, snapping out of it. "They vowed their lives to each other, not just that one, but all their lives. They only got to have it for one night."
Ori and Kuro nodded, letting out sorrowful sounds. Rain took a breath.
"Cycles, it happens every time: a destined love, followed by a tragedy caused by a betrayal." Rain placed a hand over her heart, this time Yugi's face appearing in her mind, and all that they had been through. "Okay, Eden, I'm ready to listen."
Rain sat in a meditative stance as she concentrated. As she felt her arm burn, she heard a cruel voice.
"Do you not grow tired of this, your highness?"
Opening her eyes, she found herself in the same void as her previous nightmare, (Y/N) seated in front of her and in just as dire straits. Her shield somehow remained strong even as the queen's strength had quickly been diminishing. However, she responded with the same regality Rain had known her for.
"I will not surrender to the likes of you, Dartz."
"Why drag out your suffering any longer? Would it not be simpler to accept your fate and fade? To surrender that accused power to one worthy of it?"
"Your monster of a master is worthy of nothing." (Y/N) retorted. "Giving in is always easier, but I am a Wayfarer. So long as I have something to fight for, a hope in my heart, I will not surrender the bracelet's power. My friends and my love will come for me."
The voice laughed. "That pathetic pharaoh of yours cost little Yugi his soul while Rain is the reason you're here, and you still put your faith in them? You are far more foolish than your predecessor."
(Y/N) wore a pained smirk. "No matter their mistakes, I would never lose faith in Rain or Yami. They are some of my greatest treasures, two of my three reasons for me to endure your torment. I pity you, Dartz. You've surrendered so much of your soul, your humanity, that you have forgotten what it means to put your faith in not only others, but yourself. Perhaps it is well Eden is not with us, it would break her heart to see how far you've fallen."
There was a roar of anger as the shadowy form of Leviathan struck the shield once more, causing (Y/N) to scream in pain.
"(Y/N)!" Rain called out.
It was unclear whether or not she heard her as the queen's eyes clenched, pained tears dripping.
"Yami...Rain...please hurry. I can't hold them off forever..."
Rain gasped as she broke from the vision. She could feel at least some of the pain (Y/N) was feeling, and she had no idea how her friend was putting up with it.
"Eden, please, I'm listening now. Help me!"
Getting an idea, Rain quickly drew a circle in the dirt and began drawing the runes on her arms into it before sitting in the center and focusing. This time, the sound of trickling water greeted her ears. Opening her eyes, Rain found herself in a truly serene place. There was a small waterfall cascading down a wall of black stones into a river below. On either side of the river, the horizon was covered in rows and rows of yew and ash trees, while the banks were covered in lotuses. The river also parted around a small island that sat a lone willow tree, and sitting beneath it was a familiar woman who was meditating, wearing the same robes and flower crown as the flashback. Eden opened her eyes and smiled.
"Hello, Rain. I've been waiting for you."
"Eden." She said back, standing up. "(Y/N) is in trouble! Please, we need your help! How do we stop the Leviathan?"
Eden stood, waving her hand as the willow tree transformed into her signature staff. Rain blinked in amazement as the Sage walked across the river and joined her.
"Walk with me."
"To where?!" Rain asked as her past life ventured into the trees. "Listen, we don't have time for this! I'm sorry I snapped at you, but my best friend is in danger along with the boy I-,"
Rain cut herself off as her face burned, realizing she was about to let more slip than she intended. Eden looked back, an amused smile on her face.
"Still in the denial phase, I see."
"T-that's not what I-! I wasn't going to say-!"
Eden tapped her staff twice. "Calm down, it's simply a cycle for us. I went through it, Queen (Y/N) went through it, and eventually, you will get through it. Love is difficult when you're young."
"Eden, I mean, Great Sage, please, I just need to know how to beat Leviathan!"
Rain got a sharp whack from the willow staff, causing her to yelp in pain.
"Wayfarers learn from the past, do they not? If you are to inherit my power and defeat our enemy, you must learn how this began." Eden looked down, regret in her eyes. "How I allowed this to be set in motion."
"You? What do you mean?"
Eden motioned her head to follow, and not wanting to get hit again, Rain did so. Unnaturally quickly, the trees parted as the two found themselves in the courtyard of a magnificent castle. Rain stared in complete awe before running to the ledge and seeing a massive island kingdom shimmering in the sun.
"This is-,"
"Atlantis." Eden finished. "My home. 10,000 years ago, it was the greatest civilization in the world, though not without its flaws."
Turning her eyes, Rain saw a younger version of Eden in white robes sitting beneath a tree, scrolls and books surrounding her. She looked exhausted and hungry, yet determined, even as a group of other children, haughty and menacing, began stalking towards her.
"My parents were lost to me at a young age. My only saving grace was the Sage and advisor before me seeing potential in me as his successor." Eden explained as the bigger kids began harassing her past self. "It was a different time then. To learn the magical arts was a privilege granted to few, and to fail to achieve an acceptable social standing would mean to lose it. Competition was fierce, and I was quickly singled out as a threat."
"A pitiful orphan has no place studying magic!"
"You should go back to the streets where you belong, runt!"
"No one wants you here!"
Rain made a face. "Glad to see some things never change."
"Fortunately, I wasn't as alone as they hoped."
Present Eden smiled as a boy with blue hair snuck up on the bullies. He cleared his throat, and upon turning to see who it was, they all froze in terror, dropping to kneel.
"Prince Dartz!"
"Dartz?" Rain repeated as Dartz narrowed his eyes.
"You know, I don't think the Sage will appreciate hearing his potential successors prefer bullying a more capable candidate rather than honing their skills and attempting to prove their worth. Do you believe that a sub-rate mage will serve the kingdom well?"
"N-no, my prince." The ring leader stuttered as the prince crossed his arms.
"Well then, I suggest you concentrate on your studies and rise up rather than trying to knock down a superior mage."
The bullies all looked like they wanted to argue or fight, but one look from a nearby guard sent them all running. When they were gone, the boy beamed at the girl, kneeling down to help gather her scattered studying materials.
"You know you can tell me if they're bothering you, especially if they're getting that bold. I have half a mind to tell Sage Asclepius to disinherit those worthless apprentices and find you some actual competition."
Younger Eden huffed. "It's not worth it, Dartz. They only pick on me because they don't think I deserve to be here."
The boy rolled his eyes. "Are you joking? They're picking on you because they know you're the only choice to be the successor!"
"Dartz, that's not true."
"Eden, I've seen you do things with magic that even higher court mages struggle with. There is no other choice but you. Plus, it'll be nice having my best friend advise me rather than some dusty, pushy old man."
Eden bit back a laugh. "You shouldn't say those kinds of things out loud. Remember the last time the king heard you talking like that?"
"Well, I say father would agree with me about this. Now, what new magic are you creating? Let me see!"
With a smile, Eden laid out one of the scrolls that had been scattered. "It's a protection spell. I want to make this my presentation to the king for the Rite of Succession. I thought having a way to put up barriers to protect against storms would be useful."
"Right, that's brilliant! But-," He took the scroll, scratching his head. "How do you read this?"
The girl laughed. "They're runes, Mr. Prince, you don't read them, you draw them."
"Oh right, I knew that."
Rain watched the two kids talk and joke, trying to wrap her head around the idea that this seemingly sweet prince would grow up to unleash a monster.
"I just can't believe it, you really were friends with King Dartz."
"Back then, the others knew him as Prince Dartz." Eden then pulled out a fond smile. "And he was my best friend."
Time sped forward as Eden and Dartz grew up in the blink of an eye, the almost movie reel stopping on a stormy day. Despite the terrible weather, a group of people were gathered in the courtyard. Eden now had darker robes, as if to signify progression in her training and an old man in black robes with a staff stood behind her, his face stern and cold, while the bullies, whose robes were lighter than Eden's, glared from the sidelines. Dartz was also there, looking quite smug, alongside a pretty brunette girl who was dressed just as fancy. She nodded confidently to Eden as everyone turned to greet a man exiting the castle. Considering his armor, regalia, and pose, Rain almost didn't recognize him.
"Wait, is that...Ironheart?"
Eden nodded as the man took his place at the head of the group, everyone bowing. "King Ironheart was Dartz's father and a man I looked up to greatly."
"Then, the man guiding Yami-,"
"The Pharaoh is in good hands, he will not be led astray. I was not much older than you when I experienced my first true test, beginning with solidifying my position as the successor."
The two turned back to see past Eden clapping her hands as a circle of light appeared in the ground, encompassing all of them. Sweat could be seen on the younger version's brow as slowly, the barrier surrounded them, shielding them from the elements. The adults looked impressed as Dartz and the unknown girl clapped. The old Sage seemed unmoved as the younger Eden released the barrier, breathing heavily. King Ironheart nodded his head with an approving smile as Dartz and the girl ran to Eden. A large crack rang out in the air as the tree in the courtyard suddenly began to topple. Everyone froze in fear as it began to crash down on the prince and the girl, all except Eden, who ran towards them.
"Dartz! Iona!"
She flung herself in front of them, clapping her hands once more and erecting the barrier instantly. The tree shattered as it fell on top of them, snapping into pieces as Eden collapsed to her knees, exhausted.
"Eden!" Iona yelled, running over to hug her neck. "You save us!"
"Of course I did." She answered back tiredly as Dartz ran over to help her to her feet.
Clapping could be heard as the teens turned to see the king approaching them. Ironheart placed his hands on the girl's shoulder.
"You've done Atlantis a great service, Eden. As a king, I couldn't be prouder, and as a father, I will forever be grateful."
"Thank you, my king. It is an honor."
Ironheart turned to Sage Asclepius as Dartz walked up to her side, nudging her shoulder with a knowing smile. The Sage nodded, tapping his staff again.
"Eden, you have proven your worth, your skill, and your dedication. I need no more convincing. Henceforth, you shall be my successor."
"Thank you, Sage Asclepius! I will live up to your expectations!"
"For your sake, I hope so."
Dartz gave the old man a sour look as Iona hugged Eden excitedly. Just then, there was a strong gust of wind as something shining and white flew past them, landing behind a corner.
"What was that?" Dartz asked as Eden ran over to it, racing back quickly with a white bundle in her arms.
"My king! Sage Asclepius! It's a spirit! I think it's sick!"
The two adults raced over as Rain got closer to inspect it, having a suspicion about who it was.
"That's Ori."
Eden chuckled. "Yes, my first test was not to earn some title, but to deepen my connection to the Spirit Realm."
The scene changed to what looked like a lab/library. Ori was set on a table, his breathing shallow as Asclepius shook his head.
"His strength is waning. I'm afraid he's not long for this world."
"Can nothing be done?" Ironheart asked as the teens all protested.
The Sage shook his head. "This is beyond my power."
"Maybe it's not beyond someone else's." Younger Eden suggested. "He came from the Spirit Realm, maybe someone there can help?"
Asclepius sneered at her. "To venture into the Spirit Realm for one light spirit is preposterous."
"We can't just let him die! Even if we don't know how to cure him, maybe we can find a way to-!"
"Enough!" The Sage pointed his staff at the girl. "Eden, you may now be my successor, but know your place. There is nothing more to do."
The girl looked defiant as Iona wept in Dartz's arm.
Ironheart sighed. "You three should get some dinner. Perhaps our friend will be better in the morning."
All three of them knew the light spirit would be dead by morning if he was not helped, however, they dare not argued with the king, filing out. The scene changed again to a different library, Eden trying to stay hidden as she combed through book after book, scroll after scroll, next to a dying candle. Dartz and Iona came in eventually.
"Told you we would find her here." The prince said. "You're still trying to find a way to save that spirit."
"Correction: I think I found a way to save him."
"Really?" Iona asked as teenage Eden held up a scroll with the depiction of a familiar pudgy monster on it.
"There are records of a benevolent spirit living on the border of the Spirit Realm. She gives care to weary travelers and has been said to heal those on the brink. She might know how to save Ori."
"Ori?" Dartz repeated. "You named him?"
"Yes, I did. Is there a problem?"
Iona stepped between them, looking apprehensive. "Eden, to find the healer, you'll have to go to the border. Have you ever even been there?"
"No." She admitted. "But I have to try. The spirits have always been kind to us. I could never forgive myself if I didn't try everything to save Ori."
Dartz smiled. "Well then, we'll have to start making tracks. I'll get the horses."
"What? No, Dartz, neither of you are coming with me!"
"Why not?" He asked. "You can't go alone. Besides, I have been to the border, so you'll need me to guide you, and we need Iona to make sure we don't get into trouble."
"Dartz, you're the prince and Iona is your betrothed! If I get hurt, Asclepius can just choose another successor, but you got hurt-,"
Dartz grabbed her shoulders. "Eden, you're not replaceable. You are our precious friend, and we want to help you. Right, Iona? Iona?"
The two turned to see their female friend had gone, before she quickly returned with Ori in her arms.
"Well? Are we going or not?"
In a flash of lightning, the teens were racing through the storm, Dartz leading on his horse with Iona holding on to his back as Eden followed with Ori curled to her chest. Eventually, they came to a halt at the edge of a vast forest even Rain could sense was magical.
"This is the border!" Dartz yelled over the rain. "Where's the healer?"
Eden pulled out the scroll, trying to keep it from getting wet, before pulling on the reins of her horse. "This way! We need to follow the river!"
The successor led them to the river, following it until they came upon a cave with glowing moss.
"Naru!" Eden called. "Kind Keeper of the borders, we ask for your help."
There was a rumbling from within the cave as the Duel monster appeared, tall, but still as huggable and approachable as Rain always thought she was. Dartz leaned in towards Iona.
"I don't know what I was expecting, but it certainly wasn't that."
Iona smacked him on his shoulder as Eden dismounted, holding out the fading Ori.
"He is sick. We don't have the means to heal him. Please, help him."
Naru placed a hand on Ori's forehead before nodding. Taking the light spirit from the girl, the benevolent spirit led them into her cave, the horses being put away in a different cave. Inside, Ori was placed in a nest of moss as Naru began to work. The teens watched anxiously before Naru pointed at Eden, motioning her to approach. Eden did so, watching as the spirit took out a brown nut. Appearance wise, it wasn't impressive, but as Naru placed it in the human's hand, Eden's eyes went wide.
"It's...so warm. Is it medicine?"
Naru nodded, demonstrating how to break open the shell. The inner part glowed with gold light as Eden knelt by Ori.
"Here, Ori, this will make you feel better." The spirit sniffed weakly, trying to bite, but not having the strength. Determined, (Y/N) bit the nut in half, presenting it to him again. "Come on. Just a little bit. Please?"
Encouraged, Ori bit into it, taking a sizable chunk before swallowing. Eden smiled as the spirit's breathing evened out. Naru then tapped her shoulder, motioning the girl to eat the other half. Immediately, the Sage in training seemed to get a burst of strength.
"It's like condensed energy and warmth! Like I never went out into the rain! How did we not know about this?"
Naru smiled, patting her head as she then tossed two more nuts to Dartz and Iona, who gladly ate. The teens all stuck around for the night, Eden furiously taking notes about Naru's herbal remedies, until she inevitably passed out. The next morning, the teens were woken up by Ori, who was dashing about happily.
Iona giggled happily. "Well, I'm glad you're feeling better, Ori."
Dartz smirked at his best friend. "Seems your gambit worked."
Ori approached Eden, jumping into her arms and purring loudly.
"You're welcome, my friend, though Naru deserves the praise, not me."
The keeper entered, shaking her head as she and Ori headed to the entrance, urging the humans to follow. The two spirits led them to the river, more specifically, the same setting Rain had met Eden in, the island with the willow tree and all. Ori jumped from stone to stone until he reached the island, calling for Eden to join him. Matching his steps, she reached the other side and he pulled her towards the tree. As her fingers brushed the bark, it glowed with white light, and a moment later, it shrunk into her signature staff. The girl looked at it in disbelief as Dartz and Iona cheered.
"Eden!" Dartz yelled. "The spirits found you worthy of a staff! Not even Asclepius could that!"
"Congratulations, Eden." Iona added.
With a bright smile, the teen magic user turned to the spirit and bowed. "Thank you, my friends. I will treasure it always."
Ori cooed, climbing up her shoulder and nuzzling her face. Dartz rubbed his neck nervously.
"Now, perhaps this will encourage father not to scold us too harshly."
Rain looked at present Eden. "Did it?"
"No. As a matter of fact, I don't think I ever heard King Ironheart shout that loudly again."
Rain turned to see the three teens being heavily reprimanded by the red faced king, Sage Asclepius looking equally steamed, though he eyed the willow staff enviously. Once again, time sped up until it landed on a now young adult Eden adorned in the black robes.
"It was bitter work, but eventually, I rose to become the new Sage of Atlantis."
The past Eden bowed to the king and Dartz, who sat beside his father on his own throne, beaming at his friend. Iona was also there, smiling brightly as an engagement ring adorned her finger. Just then, a large group of mages walked in, wearing the dark gray robes Eden had worn during her training.
"Asclepius may have passed down the secrets to me, but we had different views on the sharing of knowledge. I believed knowledge should be shared with anyone with the fortitude and the morality to use it well. The system of successors had left Atlantis with only a handful of mages under a single Sage, and I sought to change that. King Ironheart and Dartz gave me their support, and so rather than search for a singular successor, I took on a variety of students training them to one day serve the kingdom."
They were back in the courtyard as Eden demonstrated the barrier spell. Her students mimicked her, and she patiently helped those struggling, getting thankful smiles.
"I raised many sages in my time, yet despite wanting to diversify the position, my students insisted on calling me Great Sage, and in time, that became my epithet."
"You earned it." Rain said as Eden crossed her arms.
"I simply did what I thought best for our kingdom, and that is what truly set me down the path."
Turning back to the memory, a guard ran out into the courtyard.
"Great Sage! A messenger has come bearing news of trouble in the Spirit Realm! The king and the prince have asked you to join them in the throne room."
Past Eden nodded, encouraging her students to continue their training as she ran to the throne room. The messenger was kneeling in front of the king and prince, who acknowledged the Sage's entrance.
"My king, the main path through the cliff-sides into the Spirit Realm has been under the control of the Dread Owl for nearly a year now. She attacks any who approach, human and spirit alike and she shows no sign of leaving! We must act!"
Ironheart pursed his lips. "This is troubling. The strength of the Dread Owl is legendary."
"Perhaps she has decided to make the whole forest her territory now." Dartz suggested. "This could be a show of dominance, in which case, perhaps it is time we drive her out."
"Patience, my prince." Past Eden interjected. "It would not do well for us to rush into this blindly. Kuro has nested in those cliffs in the past, but she always returns to the dark parts of the forest eventually. Why is now different?"
"You believe something is wrong with the Dread Owl?" Ironheart asked.
"Sudden changes in behavior usually relate to that. Whatever the case, I think it would be more beneficial to us to confirm the condition of the spirit before acting."
"Who would we send?" Dartz asked. "The Dread Owl does not discriminate in her attacks."
Eden bowed. "I will go. I have walked the Spirit Realm many times and I have made friends there."
"Not by yourself!" Dartz insisted. "I will go with you."
Eden held up a hand. "With all due respect, my friend, your wedding to Iona is fast approaching and I have no intention of being on the receiving end of her wrath for allowing you to escape the rehearsals."
"Eden!" Dartz shouted, red in the face as his father chuckled.
"Besides, I'll hardly be alone. I will have Ori guide me. He is the guardian of the forest, he will be all the protection I'll need."
"Very well." Ironheart agreed. "However, swear to your king, Eden, that you will return unharmed. There are now many sages in the city, but you are our only Great Sage."
She nodded. "Of course, my king."
Past Eden exited the throne room, Dartz following after her, looking pensive.
"I still don't like the idea of you traveling by yourself, and you and I both know Iona would agree with me."
"Perhaps, but I am the one most capable of this journey." Seeing his still dark expression, she smiled and nudged his shoulder playfully. "Dartz, I promised your father I'd return. Have you known me to break my promises?"
He sighed, but smiled. "No, never."
In a flash, they were then transported to the spirit forest, Eden's past iteration now having her hood over her head as Ori guided her, jumping from branch to branch.
"Perhaps I should have taken the horse after all." She sighed as her companion jumped onto her staff. "What do you think, my friend?"
Ori chattered, making her laugh, before his ear shot up.
"What is it, Ori?"
The light spirit leapt from the staff and ran ahead, Eden following behind him. As she approached, a male voice could be heard.
"Greetings, Guardian Forest, we ask for passage to the cliff. We seek the Dread Owl, Kuro."
Walking into the clearing, the past Eden stood in front of three familiar knights: Timaeus, who had been speaking to Ori, Hermos, and Critias. Ori ran to his companion, climbing back onto her staff as she nodded.
"Good day to you, noble knights. It appears we share a mission."
"Good day to you as well, my lady." Timaeus greeted as the knights reciprocated the greeting like gentlemen. "We are-,"
Eden held up a hand, smiling. "No need, your reputations preceeds you, Knight Timaeus, Knight Hermos, and Knight Critias. It is an honor."
"Your words honor us, my lady." Critias said as Hermos smirked.
"It is nice being praised, especially by such a lovely woman."
Timaeus eyed Hermos as Critias glared, stepping in front of him. "Forgive his boldness, my lady. Now, you stated we shared a mission. You wouldn't be seeking out the Dread Owl as well?"
"I am." Eden answered, pulling down her hood. "Permit me to introduce myself. I am the Sage of Atlantis, Eden."
The knights all blinked in surprise as Timaeus bowed again. "Forgive our rudeness, Lady Sage. Your reputation precedes you as well. You are spoken of fondly by Keeper Naru and the Forest Guardian, as well as all spirits who have crossed your path. We are indeed seeking the owl known as Kuro. She has threatened the inhabitants of the forest and cannot be permitted to continue her rampage. Lady Sage, I suggest you take your leave. The Dread Owl takes no quarter."
Eden rolled her eyes, moving past him. "Which is why I intend to figure out what is causing this, Knight Timeaus."
"My lady-,"
"Eden. My name is Eden."
"Lady Eden. It's far too dangerous. You should leave this matter to the denizens of our realm and return to your kingdom."
"You intend to draw weapons on one of your own. Ori and I intend to find peace with Kuro. You lot are more than welcome to join us."
"My lady!"
The past version of the sage continued on, eventually being begrudgingly followed by the knights.
"The first time you met." Rain whispered as Present Eden looked longingly at Timaeus.
"I could not know it yet, but this mission would bring something so precious, something I wouldn't trade for the world or eternity."
The skies grew dim as the party approached the cliffs, the knights encircling the sage protectively.
"Lady Eden, I know you seek a peaceful approach, but please allow us to protect you. Kuro is vicious and relentless."
"There will be no need, Knight Timaeus."
A screech came from the skies as Kuro appeared, her wings whipping up a whirlwind. Eden tapped her staff on the ground, creating a barrier to protect them as Kuro landed, hissing and wings fully spread to attack. As the barrier fell, Timaeus stepped in front of Eden and Ori, hand going for his blade before Eden placed her staff against the hilt, preventing him from drawing. He looked at her, bewildered as she stepped forward, placing her staff down and showing the owl she had no intention to fight.
"My friend, what has you so angry? Are you in pain? Are you in need of help?"
Kuro froze, shocked by such genuine care as Ori climbed up her shoulder and chattered in a calming voice, vouching for Eden's good will. The mage then waved her hand, whipping up the dead leaves from around them and pushing them on the wind to the massive owl, her magic casting an illusion to turn them into black birds.
"I am not your enemy, my friend. Please, what ails you, let me help."
Kuro paused, debating for a moment, before motioning to a cave with her wing. Eden nodded and moved to look inside. Timaeus and the other knights instinctively followed to protect her, only for the owl to block their path again.
"Lay down your swords." Eden warned.
"Wise Sage, we cannot." Timaeus argued.
"She is showing faith in us, you must do the same for her. Please. No blood needs to be shed today."
Hermos and Critias didn't seem convinced, however, they deferred to their leader. Eventually, Timaeus placed his sword next to Eden's staff, turning to face his fellows.
"Stay here."
They nodded as Eden led the way inside. The knight stayed firmly by her side, something Eden clearly found amusing.
"Knight Timaeus, I believe if Kuro intended to kill us, she would have done so outside."
"Perhaps, but a knight must always be vigilant." He smiled. "Especially when in the company of a kind soul."
Eden blushed, unsure how to respond. The trio then came to a large nest which Ori bounded up the side of and began chattering insistently. The two crept closer and peeked in, being met with the eyes of a small owl chick. They blinked in shock as the chick, who would become Ku, toddled up to the edge and attempted to fly to their eye level, only to stumble and begin crying or hyperventilating. Eden immediately jumped into the nest and set the owlet up right, slowly extending her withered wing.
"This is why Kuro has been so hostile. Her owlet can't fly."
Timaeus looked at the wing, fingers to his chin. "That doesn't look like an injury. It's as if the wing rotted away without infection."
Eden placed a gentle hand on the wing, frowning. "There was something here once, perhaps while she was still an egg, something that drained her and crippled her wing."
"Can you fix it?"
Eden shook her head.
"No. There is no sickness left in the wing to heal, and I cannot grow it back, and I fear Kuro will remain here to protect her chick. Perhaps..." The sage pulled out a notebook, flipping to a page with an entry about a tinkerer. "Naru told me about a great tinkerer who lives where the river flows from."
"Gumo." Timaeus clarified.
"Yes. Perhaps instead of mending the wing, he could find a way to build a new one?"
"Could he do that?"
"It is the only thing I can think of. We need to move quickly."
There were flashes of scenes of the journey up river, of Eden protecting the knights from the elements, the knights (mostly Timaeus) protecting her from more aggressive spirits, and Ori leading the way. One scene stood out most as Timaeus and Eden stopped at a patch of peonies.
Eden smiled fondly at them. "You know, these flowers are sacred in our kingdom."
"How so?" The knight asked curiously as the sage bent down to brush the petals.
"Our ancestors believed they were a rebirth of the love of those who have passed on, and so we view them as a symbol of love and that love will endure after death, across all lifetimes."
"That's rather romantic."
"They're quite popular for weddings as well. I will need to secure quite a number of them for Dartz and Iona's wedding."
"Pardon me, but Dartz is the name of your prince, is it not? I mean no disrespect, but you speak so casually of him."
"Ah yes." She said, sounding a bit embarrassed. "Pardon me. Dartz, or rather Prince Dartz, along with his betrothed are childhood friends of mine. He insists I refer to him only as Dartz."
Timaeus chuckled. "No need to apologize. It's a wonderful feeling having such companions. I certainly would allow my tongue to slip if I had to refer to Hermos or Critias in such a manner.
"I noticed. I could almost mistake you as brothers for the way you act."
"They can certainly get on my nerves as well as brothers."
The two laughed and continued on the journey, reaching Gumo, who agreed to help them. Returning to the cliffs, the flashback continued with the tinkerer mending the owlet's wing with her own mother's feather, allowing her to take flight for the first time. Kuro greeted Eden with kindness, along with the knights, before the mother and daughter flew off. With their task completed, the knights accompanied Eden back to the border, saying their farewells.
"It was a pleasure, gentlemen."
"And an honor for us, Sage Eden." Critias said. "We have learned much from you."
"We'd certainly be glad to accompany you on your next venture into our world." Hermos joked as Timaeus stepped forward.
"We'd certainly be grateful to meet again."
Eden nodded. "I would like the same, Knight Timaeus."
"Timaeus...just, Timaeus, if you would."
The sage blinked, blushing once more before smiling. "Then, simply Eden for me as well."
The knight then bowed, kissing the back of her hand, smiling charmingly. "May we meet again soon, Eden."
Rain shook her head. "Oh yeah, now I'm starting to see Yami in him."
Her companion chuckled. "He certainly kept his charm across his lifetimes, and each time, it snared our hearts."
The past Eden returned to the castle, reporting that her mission was a success and that they had the three Legendary Knights to thank as well. Ironheart thanked her for her services as Dartz and Iona caught her as she exited the throne room.
"Did something else happen on your journey, my friend?" Iona asked.
Past Eden raised a brow. "How so?"
Dartz had a very 'cat ate the canary' expression. "You had quite a fond smile when you spoke of the knights. I suppose legendary knights would be legendarily handsome as well."
"Iona, if you would please smack your husband-to-be?"
She smiled. "My apologies, but now I am curious."
The sage sighed. "They were all quite attractive, I will admit."
"One in particular?" Dartz teased.
A blush was now on her face. "Their leader, I suppose. Timaeus is very charming and a gentleman. He asked we meet again."
The prince was eating this up. "Oh my, referring to a legendary knight so casually. How forthcoming of you, my friend!"
Eden spun, marching off. "If you both will excuse me, I must attend to my students."
"Very well, but I suppose Iona and I will have to extend wedding invitations to them, as our way of showing gratitude for protecting our dear Great Sage."
The Great Sage made a noise not befitting her title, but said nothing more. Time moved forward to Dartz and Iona's wedding, and indeed, the knights were in attendance. For the whole ceremony, Dartz only had eyes for Iona, and Timaeus only had eyes for Eden. Eventually, Timaeus asked for a dance, which devolved into the two disappearing into the gardens for quite some time, something Dartz furiously teased his friend over. Then it shifted again to Iona giving birth to a child, a girl that even as a baby Rain realized the identity of.
"Chris. Chris is Dartz's daughter!?"
Eden nodded sadly.
"She was an inquisitive child, always asking me questions. She even asked to be one of my students. She would've made a fine queen, if given the chance. Those years are perhaps the most precious in my life. I had wonderful friends, devoted students, and..." There was another memory of Eden and Timaeus laughing as they walked by a river as the sun set, ending with the knight placing a flower in her hair, and stealing a kiss. "A man I loved more than anything."
"I don't understand. How!? You were all so happy! Everything seemed great! He was in love with someone else...and he was encouraging you to be with Timaeus! What happened!?"
Eden gritted her teeth. "The prelude was a calamity from the sky."
There was another flash as an explosion rang out. Past Eden, Dartz, and Ironheart ran outside, seeing a volcano erupting in the distance, smoke and fragments of molten rock rising into the sky. Eden stood on the end of the courtyard, raising her staff into the air and shining a beacon of light that reached across the city. She then jumped down and stood in the center of a massive protection circle that was carved into the ground. It lit up as she tapped her staff to the ground, erecting a barrier the size of which Rain never thought possible. Across the city, similar barriers went up, though smaller in size and flickering ever so often. Stones reigned down, shattering against the barriers or hitting structures that were left uncovered. However, as the smoke, it seemed damages had been kept to a minimum. Eden fell over, exhausted, Dartz being there to catch her.
"Well done, my friend."
"We...need to work on output...for the future." She joked, making them both chuckle.
At that moment, a straggling piece of rock plummeted into the fountain, immediately causing steam rise from it before it began to emit a strange glow.
A glow Rain knew all too well.
Eden frowned as her past self, Ironheart, and Dartz removed a piece of the Orichalcos from the fountain.
"What is this?" Dartz asked.
"The beginning of our end." Present Eden snarled, as if he could hear her as scenes of the sages along with Eden studying the stone past into those of them using them to amplify their magic, to even creating flying machines. "The stones that fell from the sky exuded an enormous amount of energy, and in a few short years, with their help, Atlantis grew into one of the mightiest civilizations in history. But it was a terrible trap. I always felt hesitant about the stone, but I clouded my better judgment and turned my eyes from the truth."
The dream Rain and (Y/N) had experienced before played as Dartz and the past Eden discussed the possible dangers posed by the stones before it was agreed that the sage would again journey into the Spirit Realm to investigate. However, more of the memory played out as Eden left the library, running into Iona.
"Ah, Iona. If my students sent you here as well, Dartz already scolded me."
Iona, contrasting her earlier friendliness, had an eerie look about her, almost disdain. "You speak so casually with your prince, Eden. If outsiders were to hear it, they would make assumptions."
Past Eden blinked in shock. "I...I apologize, Iona, but you both insisted I refer to you in such a manner, did you not?"
"Yes, I suppose he did." She said flatly.
By now, the sage was visibly uncomfortable and quickly bowed. "My apologies, but I must begin preparations for a journey into the Spirit Realm."
As she turned to leave, Iona's voice stopped her.
"Eden, have you ever considered just...remaining in the Spirit Realm?"
"What?"
"You are so revered there, not to mention it is where that lover of yours dwells. Would it not be simpler to settle down?"
Eden narrowed her eyes, sensing something terribly wrong. "My work is here, Iona. I suggest you speak to your husband, I fear both of you may be lacking in sleep as well. Good evening."
The sage took her leaving, noting the princess's clenching fist and menacing glare.
Rain looked confused. "D-did she change?"
"Yes." Present Eden stated. "That was my first clue. The Orichalcos can produce tremendous energy, but what we didn't realize was that if given the opportunity, it would latch on to any negative emotion in the human heart, greed, jealousy, insecurity, no matter how faint, and amplify it. That was the fate befalling our people, and I nearly became a victim of it myself."
They turned to see past Eden arriving at the border, the knights, Ori, and Naru there to greet her, Timaeus even kissing her forehead, though he looked worried as he saw her expression. An entire season passed with Eden meditating and studying the stone with feverish devotion, and every time, Ori and Timaeus stood there, concerned. At one point, she fell into a feverish daze, being nursed by Naru, only to disappear into a storm that night to meditate once more.
"Eden!" Timaeus called out, Ori's faint glow being the only light in the dark. "Where are you!?"
He found her meditating by the river, soaked to the bone, and the stone she had taken with her shining.
"Eden!"
He ran forward, only to be halted by a barrier.
"Leave me alone." She hissed, her voice sounding not like herself.
Timaeus looked desperate. "Eden, it's not safe out here and you are unwell. You need to rest!"
"What would a spirit know about human endurance? I don't need rest, I need answers! If I don't find them, how am I ever to face them again?"
"Who, Eden?"
"My kingdom! My worth has always been tied to my prowess as a mage! Fate, my enemies, have sought any little excuse to cast me back into despair! I must know all."
"You're talking nonsense!" Timaeus screamed as he and Ori banged on the shield. "Your worth has nothing to do with your magic! You have friends who care for you deeply and students who admire you so!"
She let out a laugh. "Friends? Dartz has slinked away from me and Iona all but told me she didn't want me near her husband anymore. What friends do you speak of!?"
Lightning crashed as Timaeus looked at her sadly. "Eden, listen to me: your magic is not your worth. I did not fall in love with you for your magic, I fell in love with you because of your selflessness, your empathy, and your insistence on seeing the good in others. You aren't acting like yourself! You haven't since this started. It's as if something has possessed your heart and has tried to fill it with poison. Please tell me what is wrong! I can't bear to see you suffer!"
Hearing her knight cry out to her seemed to snap sense back into her. When...when had she become this obsessive in her research? Why did it feel like she was a child again, fighting desperately to prove her worth? She looked at the stone in her hand and for the first time, it clicked.
The stones, it began with the stones.
Eden suddenly screeched in pain as her barrier collapsed, clawing at her head as voices filled venomous words into her mind to give into the dark, to her nature, and to release its master. Each syllable was like a fire to her brain as she teared up, begging for release as images of a great and terrible monster filled her mind. However, as the voices tried to overwhelm her, Timaeus and Ori raced to her side. The knight held her tightly, trying to protect her from the unseen foes. He kissed her head, whispering comforting words.
"I am here with you, my love. Please, please come back to me."
The voices gave dying screams, as if Timaeus's love was a deadly poison to them. Eden, exhausted, placed her head to his chest, hearing the thump of his heart even through the armor. It drowned out the remaining voices and she felt a warmth in her once more as she drifted off. Timaeus looked down, reassured by her serene expression. As he scooped her up to get her back to Naru, he noticed the stone had vanished, and now, engraved in her arms were the protective runes he had seen her draw so many times. The next morning, when the storm subsided, Eden woke in a moss bed with a gasp, Ori on her chest. Naru and Timaeus raced in with the two remaining knights standing at the mouth of the cave. As the Keeper tended to the patient, Eden grasped Timaeus's hand.
"T-the stones! We were blind, so blind!"
"Eden, breathe." Timaeus asked, holding her comfortingly. "What are you talking about?"
"The stones are a terrible trap. They hold great power, but that power summons the darkness from within the heart, no matter how small. It whispered to me, trying to turn me into...I don't know. It also spoke of a master, a terrible, ravenous beast that has set its eyes on this world and mine!"
Timaeus looked horrified, but he quickly steeled himself. "What must we do?"
Eden grasped his head. "You, Hermos, and Critias must raise an army here. Something terrible is coming. I have to get back to Atlantis."
"By yourself!? Eden, your fever only just broke!"
"My people, my students, my friends are all in danger! I must warn them!" She took his face into her hands and kissed him. "I will return to you, I swear it. I will return, but I must go now."
Timaeus kissed her back and nodded, as he then stood and whistled, summoning a Yata-garasu that landed on her shoulder.
"Should anything happen, release the spirit and I will come to you, Eden. Now go!"
The vision of the past rode as fast as she could back to Atlantis. In what time she had been gone, not only did Dartz seem to be king now, the entire city was in chaos with citizens arguing, fighting, and some even turning into monsters. Eden burst into the throne room where her friends were, Dartz looking concerned for her state while Iona had a neutral expression.
"Eden!" The king called. "Are you all right? What has happened?!"
"M-my friends!" She said between gasps. "The kingdom...no, the entire world is in terrible danger! Dartz, you must give the order to purge the city of the stones!"
"What? Eden, what nonsense do you speak? The stones have-!"
"LISTEN TO ME! The stones are a poison, a horrible trap to amplify the darkness in the hearts of any they come into contact with! I've seen what is coming! We must act before it is too late!" Suddenly Iona stood, twitching oddly. "Iona?"
The queen let out a monstrous scream and before the horrified eyes of her childhood friends, transformed into a monster. Barely seconds after the transformation, the former queen lunged at the sage, who barely managed to roll out of the way.
"Iona! Stop this!" Dartz yelled, attempting to get between them.
The monster only had eyes on Eden, lashing out at her with long claws and drooling teeth. The mage valiantly dodged until she was pinned in front of a pillar and forced to defend herself with a barrier. That didn't stop Iona as she slashed at the barrier until her claws cracked. Eden raised her staff to blast the monster with magic, but she could not bring herself to do it. At that moment, Dartz from behind, sword drawn, cut down his own wife. Seeing the crumpled body before her, Eden fell to her knees and wept.
"Forgive me, Iona. I wasn't fast enough."
"How...how has this happened?" Dartz said in a near whisper, casting his blade away in disgust. "How could our perfect society crumble so quickly?"
"Dartz, you must rid the city of the stones, before more lives are lost!" The king was in a daze, unresponsive. "Dartz! Say something!"
Just then, the stone he had held onto shone. Rain had to cover her ears as the voices that filled the room were like nails on a chalkboard. Past Eden clearly had a similar reaction, the runes on her arm flashing violently. Dartz had an expression of awe, but both Edens and Rain saw the true form of the creature whispering in his ear, a hideous monster greedily drooling over the thought of devouring the world. When the voices finally died down, past Eden stood up.
"My friend, destroy the stone, now."
"...no." Dartz looked at her manically, one his eyes now the color of the Orichalcos. "The stones aren't a trap, Eden, but a test, a test humanity has failed."
Eden's grip on her staff tightened. "Dartz, listen to yourself! You've lost your senses!"
"No, my dear, for the first time, I've seen the truth. Humanity is evil and corrupt, that is why they transformed into beasts! Even Iona! It is the reflection of their true nature."
"Darkness exists inside everyone." She argued back. "The world is flawed, but there is beauty in always being able to strive for something greater. Beyond that, those stones poison the heart. It does not reveal the true nature, merely amplifies any weakness it senses! It nearly consumed me!"
Dartz smirked, as if validated by the argument. "And yet, you are unchanged! We have always been different, you and I, Eden. We are the ones the Earth has chosen to carry out this mission."
Rain could almost feel the churn in Eden's stomach at that implication. "Timaeus saved me from myself. It was his love that banished the darkness from my heart, not my own strength."
Dartz clicked his tongue. "Ah, yes. Your precious knight. Tell me, Eden, how long have we known each other?"
He stalked towards her and the sage immediately put up her staff. "Dartz..."
"Practically our whole lives, if I'm not mistaken. Knowing one for so long, doesn't that mean there is a bond between us?"
"Don't do this."
"That perhaps we were always destined to be more to each other?"
Terror, disgust, sadness, really Rain couldn't tell what expression past Eden was trying to make, but in the end, the sage simply took a deep breath.
"I do love you, Dartz, as a dear childhood friend, as someone I consider my brother, but my heart belongs to one man, and he is not you."
"No matter, you will see the truth in time, my dear Eden. I shall purge this world of its corruption and you and I shall rule the perfect world that will come after, as we were destined to."
She closed her eyes. "I know these are not truly your words, my friend. The beast has warped our bond in your eyes. One day, I swear that I will uncover your eyes once more."
In a snap, Eden sent out a blast of wind, knocking the king into his throne before the Yata-garasu that had hidden in her robes flew out the window.
Dartz sat up, rubbing away blood from his mouth. "Warning your precious Timaeus? No matter, he won't reach you in time."
The sage twirled her staff and stamped on the ground. "You underestimate him, and myself. I may not be able to bring myself to harm you, but I can stall you."
He smirked. "And abandon the rest of the city?"
A cold sweat broke out on her face as the doors to the throne room swung open. Ironheart, Chris, and Skye all came running in. Both pleaded for their son and father to stand down, but Dartz refused, summoning warriors garbed in the armor of Orichalcos to purge the city. Ironheart drew his sword, but the knights proved too great. With Chris pleading for her father, Eden and Ironheart fled the throne room with her in the former king's arms and Skye at their heels. Rushing into the courtyard, the frightened citizens could be heard as they were swarmed by either transformed humans or the Orichalcos soldiers. Hearing the army approaching, Eden looked at Ironheart.
"My king, gather the survivors and flee for your lives! Go to border, the knights will be there!"
"What of you?" He asked.
"I will stay and hold them off for as long as I can."
"Eden!" Chris cried, hugging her waist. "We can't lose you too!"
"Take heart, Princess. Timaeus will come for me, but you and your grandfather must save the rest of our people. Now go!"
"Swear to me you will survive this, Eden." Ironheart demanded as she smiled.
"I already swore as much to the man I love."
Satisfied, the former king and princess ran off as Eden held up her staff.
"My students, forgive your teacher for what I must ask of you." Her staff glowed, and like before, barriers began going up around the city, though not as numerous. Seeing safe zones established, Eden readied herself as the Orichalcos soldiers rushed out. "Have at you!"
Rain watched, kinda terrified, as past Eden tore through soldier after soldier.
"And I thought (Y/N) was scary when pushed." She noted as a solider flew past her ethereal form while on fire.
Unfortunately, there were simply too many, and having raced to the kingdom on horseback after only just breaking a fever, Eden was pushed to the edge of the courtyard, breathing heavily as the city burned below her. The Orichalcos soldiers parted as Dartz stepped forward, pointing a sword at her with a smug expression.
"Nowhere left to run, Eden. Stop this foolishness. Accept your destiny at my side."
Eden gritted her teeth, about to pass out when a teal form descended literally from the sky. A furious Timaeus easily shattered Dartz's sword with his own before kicking the young king into his puppet soldiers. As the soldiers leveled their weapons at the knight, Kuro landed in front of them as she whipped her wings to summon a gale storm, sending them flying back. Eden, seeing help had arrived, finally gave out, though her knight was one step ahead of her and already there to catch her.
"Rest, Eden." He insisted. "You did well. Leave the rest to us."
Timaeus whistled and at once, the Dread Owl took the skies, gliding so the knight could leap onto her back with the weakened sage. As they made their escape Timaeus glanced back to see Dartz seething at him, the same eye that would later be slashed out. For now, Timaeus held Eden close as Kuro flew over the ruins of her home.
"T-the citizens..."
"Everyone has evacuated." Timaeus assured, trying to give her what little comfort he could. "Your students did not waver in their efforts. You should be proud. You taught them well."
Eden said nothing, merely looking at the burning Atlantis before throwing her arms around Timaeus's neck and crying. The knight rubbed her back as Kuro flew towards the border, and eventually, the place that would be their final battlefield. Day passed into night as past Eden stood on a ledge overlooking where Rain assumed the battle would take place. In the distance, the enemy army could be advancing towards them, the chilling presence of Leviathan hanging over them. Timaeus then joined her.
"You shouldn't be out here by yourself. Enemies scouts could be lurking."
"Dartz will want his victory on a battlefield. Besides," She smiled at him. "I know you would never allow me to be carried off."
He chuckled. "No, I wouldn't. Eden, you're already using enough of your energy protecting Hermos, Critias, and myself from whatever curse Dartz is trying to lay on us. You should rest more."
"It won't do me any good."
He took her hand. "Are you frightened?"
"Beyond, even with you by my side, and I am also sad to see it come to this."
"We will prevail."
"I know, but there is something you must know. If it should come to it, I do have one final spell that may tip the scales, one that not even Dartz or Iona knew of."
"Truly?"
She nodded. "If they knew the price, they would snuck into my study and burn the notes. The spell, or ritual I should say, would allow the user to craft an item of untold power, capable of performing miracles. However, the item would be forged from pieces of the soul, meaning the user would pay the ultimate price."
"Eden, no!" Timaeus shouted. "It will not come to that! Promise me!"
She took his face in her hands. "If the choice is to live and see you all die or ensure you and the others live on, it is the price I must pay, Timaeus. I don't want it to come to that, but I can't watch you be destroyed."
"And your students? If you were to perish-,"
"They know already what I will do if pushed. I have already told them that they are to carry on without me and to ensure that this tragedy cannot happen again. My love, even should I perish tomorrow, my spirit will endure in them, the world I would die protecting, and in my love for you."
The two shared a brief kiss before placing their foreheads against one another's.
"I will not allow it to come to this, but if tonight were to be our last together, then allow me to ask one selfishness of you, Eden." He slipped a familiar woven bracelet into her hand. "If you would have me, then I beg that we may bond our spirits together, in love and unity, if only for one night. I would love no other but you."
Past Eden teared up and nodded, kissing him once more as the wedding Rain had witnessed before played out.
"You two had a wedding before the battle."
Present Eden looked on in melancholic nostalgia. "Our only night as husband and wife, yet I would not have traded it for lifetimes without him."
In a violent juxtaposition, the scene dissolved into the final battle. Timaeus and Eden fought alongside each other as they tore through the Orichalcos soldiers. The duel monster spirits fought valiantly as well as Eden's students. Neither side looked willing to relent as the pair broke through into a clearing, heading towards the darkened form of the Leviathan. However, at that moment, past Eden was shoved away as Timaeus let out a shout of pain. A shadow flew over head, and as the dust settled, Rain saw Kuro and Ori keeping Dartz at bay, his sword now bloodied somehow. She then noticed Eden's past self kneeling and crying over a collapsed Timaeus, whose face was now bloodied from a wound that seemed to drip with negative energy. Despite being in clear agony, the knight simply smiled, kissing his wife's cheek before whispering something in her ear. Looking resigned, the past Eden kissed his forehead and ran back as it appeared some sort of shield dissolved around Timaeus.
"Dartz had attempted to seal away the powers of the knights." The present Eden explained. "However, my friend was the lesser of the spellcasters, and my proximity to them, I could give them protection. In that moment, Timaeus said to use all my strength for what needed to be done, which would mean allowing the curse to take hold. While that meant he would be strong enough to defeat the Leviathan head on," Timaeus let out a roar as his body began transforming, growing into the massive dragon Rain had come to know him as. "If the goal was simply to buy me time, being a large, imposing, and maneuverable dragon wasn't exactly a bane. Not to mention the other two."
As if to prove her point, the dragon loomed over the man aiming to take his wife and proceeded to try and blast him to kingdom come. Meanwhile, past Eden began drawing runes in the dirt, the outer being her usual protective runes, but the inner ones were far more complex. The only one Rain recognized was the one at the center: the very symbol of the Millennium Items. With the circle completed, Eden slammed her staff in the ground and began to pour her energy into it, the damage clearly taking a heavy toll as the light in the outer portion of the ring began to crack. Just before it shattered though, more individuals stepped into the ring, joining their hands and reinforcing the ritual. Judging by the darker robes, these were likely some of Eden's top students, especially with how her past self looked up in shock.
"What are you doing here! All of you flee! Save yourselves!"
"We will not." One said, gritting through the pain. "This burden shall not be yours to bear alone, Great Sage."
"I will not see you all die for this gambit! Let your teacher bear this!"
Another student struggled to smile. "Our brothers and sisters already know what we have decided and vowed to carry out our mission should we fall. Even if our lives can only hold the beast at bay, it will be worth it."
"Every bit of time it buys for those who will come after us to defeat the beast once and for all is worth this sacrifice! And...it would be our honor to die alongside you, Great Sage Eden."
Past Eden glanced around at each person forming the ring, seeing the look of resolve on each of their faces. Her head hung, a single tear dripping from her eye.
"My students...it was my greatest honor to be your teachers."
The light of the ritual intensified as the participants struggled in the agony. Dartz then appeared, as if he then realized what was going on. With inhuman strength, he flung his sword that was coated in a dark aura, as if to interrupt the ritual. However, Timaeus flung himself in front of the blade one more time, this time allowing the sword to embed itself into his head, the same sword Yami and Yugi had pulled before. Both versions of Eden and Rain nearly toppled as Timaeus let out a roar of pain, his body slowly crystallizing. Past Eden let out more tears.
"Timaeus, I cannot follow you where you go yet. Wait for me."
The dragon let out a rumble as he was encased, a tear from him splashing on the ground, but Rain, it sounded like words: a wish, a plea, for some small part of himself to follow Eden no matter what form she took and to stay with her. Dartz tried to summon another sword, but by then, it was too late. The light intensified as the Orichalcos soldiers still fighting behind them began dissolving and the Leviathan screamed in anger. The king was pushed back and his beastly master violently protested as it was ensnared in tendrils of light, dragging it down to the earth.
"You fools!" Dartz tried to bargain. "You couldn't possibly believe you will live through this!"
"Don't look so surprised." One student shot back as they were all brought to their knees. "We all know exactly what it will cost us."
"Even if this gambit succeeds, it will never defeat the Leviathan! You only delay the inevitable!"
"You're wrong." Eden said, only standing upright due to her staff. "Even though we shall fall here, there will be others who will carry out our work, who will find the keys to slaying Leviathan once and for all. And don't think this is the end for me either, my friend. I shall remain. The power I will leave behind shall pass on to those who will inherit my spirit! I swear to you, Dartz, I will free all those trapped by Leviathan's spell, including you, and shall see it defeated once and for all, no matter how many hundreds or thousands of years it may take! Years from now, my new life shall appear wielding the artifact to cleanse the darkness, one with the power to defeat the beast! Remember this."
The world went completely white in an explosion, and all Rain could make out were the stud-, no, sages, disappearing one by one, until only Eden remained. Sinking to her knees, she slow began to dissolve as the ritual ring closed in and the runes on her arms faded, as she disappeared, the wedding bracelet Timaeus had given her absorbed the magic around it, and as it landed on the ground, it transformed into the Millennium Bracelet. As color returned to the memory, a new group of mages came onto the site, finding only the planted staff and the Millennium Bracelet there.
Blinking, Eden and Rain found themselves back at the river and the lone island, now with the context of its significance.
"For all my power and studies, I could only manage to draw with the beast." The Great Sage said somberly. "And now the world is in danger because of my weakness."
"You didn't fail, Eden." Rain assured her. "You saved the world. You bought the Wayfarer, you bought us time to finish the job. We owe everything to you."
She shook head. "You've done much yourself, young Wayfarer. You faced the darkness and prevailed. Perhaps we've both allowed our failures to cloud our judgements, but regardless, you and (Y/N) have suffered dearly because of my actions. I thought it necessary to reincarnate to ensure that someone could face the Leviathan when it resurfaced, but I never thought of souls who would come after me, what dangers I would put them in."
"What do you mean?"
Before she could answer, there was a roar of thunder and burning in their hearts. Glaring, Eden looked to the skies.
"I sense Dartz's presence near, or at the very least, one of his agents. The one responsible for the loss of Yugi."
"Rafael!" Rain realized. "He must be going after Yami!"
"Indeed, and I sense that Timaeus and he have not made amends yet. He is vulnerable."
"Eden, can't you talk to him?!" Rain asked. "He'll listen to you!"
"I would if I could, but the price I paid to reincarnate in this world keeps me bond in this place. Only my next lives and those with connections to them can hope to reach it. I cannot speak to Timaeus myself, but you can, Rain."
"Me?"
"Speak from your heart, and your words shall reach him. Kuro will take you to him and you shall deliver him to Yami. When you are done, return to this place with him. There are still matters we discuss. You will find the way. Go!"
Rain woke up once more, seeing a thunderstorm in the distance. Whistling for Ori to climb her shoulder, she jumped onto Kuro's back.
"Rafael is going after Yami again. Kuro, you need to get me to Timaeus!"
Understanding, the owl shot into the air and flew as fast as an arrow. Coming to a valley, Rain recognized it as the site of the final battle. Just then, a bolt of lightning came crashing down, and looking below, Rain saw the crumpled forms of Chris and Skye, now in her Silver Fang form.
"Chris!" Kuro landed and Rain raced to their girl's side. "Princess!"
Chris looked up at her with a sad smile. "Y-you remembered."
Rain shook her head, tearing up. "I'm sorry, Chris. I'm not her."
"I know, but it was nice to see her again, even if it was in another form." Skye then whimpered and dissolved, leaving Chris to weakly hand over the Eye of Timaeus. "Hurry, you and the Pharaoh are the only ones who can bring him back. Please Rain, fulfill Eden's promise and set us all free."
With that, the princess also vanished, leaving Rain to hold the card close. "I will, Chris. I promise."
Determined, Rain stood and saw the glow of the seal of Orichalcos. Running towards it, she saw Yami dueling with an Orichalcos Soldier, and losing. Running towards him, Rain whispered to the card.
"Timaeus, please help him. He made a mistake. Eden nearly made the same mistake, remember? If you have to blame someone, blame me. If I had been smarter, we would've gone with them and (Y/N) would have saved him, like you saved Eden. You know what she wants you to do."
Hearing the rumble of the imprisoned dragon, Rain slid down the slope, closing the distance to the seal.
"Yami!"
The Pharaoh turned to see her approach. "Rain!?"
"Catch!" Her runes glowed as the card slipped through the seal and into the Pharaoh's hand. "He'll listen to you now! You have to find the strength to use him again! You've had the strength to do it! Don't let a mistake blind you to that! Everyone still believes in you!"
Hearing this, Yami nodded, turning to face the approaching Orichalcos Gigas. "Thank you, Rain. I won't falter here."
With that, Yami found his resolve, summoning Dark Magician Girl and fusing her together with Timaeus to become Dark Magician Girl the Dragon Knight. With the help of the Excalibur equip card, Yami managed to overcome the soldier and destroy its monster and itself. When the dust settled, Yami was clearly the victor, and behind him was a familiar willow tree. Rain ran up to him, smiling.
"Nice work."
He smiled back at her. "I had some help."
Just then, the two caught sight of Rafael standing above them,
"I have to say, I'm glad you won, Pharaoh." He taunted. "'Cause now I can be the one who delivers your soul to Master Dartz."
"Not today, buddy." Rain stated, reaching out her hand.
At one, the willow tree glowed and transformed into Eden's staff, flying into her hands as she pointed at Rafael. Both males looked stunned as Rain pulled the staff back.
"This is a sacred place! You and those like you aren't allowed!" Swinging it forward, the staff sent out what looked like a mini thunderstorm, sending Rafael flying. "You tell your boss that Eden keeps her promises!"
"Did you actually mean to do that?" Yami asked, concerned.
Rain looked at the staff, accidentally pointing it towards the former pharaoh. "You know, I was going for wind, but hey, I was named after the weather, so why not?"
He immediately pushed it away. "Don't point it at people if you don't know how to use it!"
Rain just laughed. "Sounds like someone's got his spark back."
He sighed before rubbing his neck, smiling. "Let's just say I had some sense talked into me."
"You and me both." Rain then got a serious look. "Did you, you know?"
"A piece of him." Yami corrected. "However, no matter what, we will save them both."
Rain nodded. "Right. Now, I found Eden, and she said she has to talk to us both. She said I would be able to reach her again, so...maybe get close."
More than a bit nervous, Yami watched as Rain tapped the staff to the ground, transporting them back to Eden's realm. She smiled at Yami.
"Greetings, Pharaoh of Egypt."
He looked at her stunned before nodding. "Greetings, Great Sage."
Her smile became a bit sad. "I'm sorry I'm not her."
"And I'm sorry I'm not him."
Rain and Eden looked at him, stunned.
"Wait, when did you-?"
Yami cut Rain off. "Yugi and I had our suspicions from the beginning. Just now, I saw things, Timaeus with you, Eden, things I...recognized in myself when I'm with (Y/N)."
The Great Sage nodded. "I vastly underestimated him. I did not think he would find a way to stay by my side. I owe him an apology for that. For now, you both have found your path once more. This time, I will ensure you won't be caught in Orichalcos's trap."
"Trap?" Yami repeated.
Rain quickly gave a cliff notes version of what she had learned and the true nature of the stones.
"So in short, the stones amplify any kind of darkness it senses and it can be driven back by love."
Yami looked down, ashamed. "So it fed on my anger and made me weak."
"Which never would have happened if (Y/N) and I went with you both. We both share blame in that."
"Darkness, flaws, exist in every heart, you two." Eden clarified. "It is not shameful, merely a byproduct of being human. What truly defines strength is being able to overcome that darkness. However, Pharaoh, I want to ensure he won't be able to manipulate you again. He has one dastardly left he can play against you."
"What do you mean?"
Eden waved her hand, casting an image of Dartz in modern clothes. "The enemy you face now is the same man I once faced long ago, the one I once called friend."
"He's still alive!?" Rain shouted as Yami took a step back.
"I-it can't be!"
"Yami?" Rain said, confused. "What's wrong?"
Yami gritted his teeth in anger. "That man, I know him. He's the one who attacked (Y/N)."
"Wait, what? When?"
"In our past lives. He's the one who slew Assim."
Rain's eyes went wide. "(Y/N)'s father? Wait, he's the kidnapper from the legend!?"
Eden nodded. "Yes. I did not lie when I said you both suffered for my mistakes. Dartz hunted my incarnations in hopes of capturing me. He found (Y/N) in Egypt and attempted to take her in hopes of awakening me later. However, he did not expect to face you, Pharaoh, an incarnation of Timaeus's love. I imagine that his reasoning for obsessing for your soul has less to do with your power and more to do with wanting to spite Timaeus."
Yami huffed. "Why didn't he try again?"
Eden smiled slyly at him.
"I don't know if you noticed in your memories, Yami, but you did keep (Y/N) quite close after that." His anger immediately melted into embarrassment as the sage cleared his throat. "Truthfully though, he would have tried again, but another darkness hunted him and chased him from Egypt, one you are very familiar with."
"Bakura." Rain said.
The sage. "Indeed. However, now that he has the bracelet, I fear is attempting to revive me once more."
"What is doing to (Y/N)?" Yami pleaded. "I can hear her calling for help and I can do nothing."
"The Leviathan fears the Millennium Bracelet, and as such, it will see its power broken before it will awaken, and given that (Y/N)'s existence to this world is tethered by the bracelet-,"
"It'll destroy her too." Rain realized, eyes wide with terror.
"And I fear it does not end there. The Leviathan wanted me out of the way once it realized it could not manipulate the darkness in my heart any long, hence why it warped Dartz's care for me into an obsession. In his pursuit of me, he has disregarded both you and (Y/N) as individuals, and will see your souls destroyed. If the bracelet's powers are shattered, my hiding place will vanish, and I will be forced into your vessel for him to hunt. That has been his goal."
"I need to get to her." Yami said, turning only for Eden to raise a hand.
"Take heart, Yami, your queen is strong and she fights still. Love saved me once, and is her love for you that has allowed her will to match the Leviathan's. You will reach her in time."
"Thank you." He said, a bit more calm now.
"Continue your path to Florida and there you shall face him. The three knights shall aid you, and when the time is right, so will I."
"We won't fail." Rain assured.
"I know you won't." She then turned to Yami, waving her hand and causing everything around them to freeze, including Rain. "Yami, there are two things I must discuss with you privately."
"Why just me?"
Eden glanced away somberly. "There is another truth you will come to know when you face Dartz. When you learn it, you must be prepared to shoulder the burdens for Rain. Promise me you will."
Yami looked at his frozen friend before nodding. "I will. She is my friend and precious to my wife and Yugi. And, the second matter."
This time, the sage took a deep breath. "I have been able to somewhat communicate with your wife, even as the beast attempts to overpower her. Her love for you and the want to return to you and Rain has kept her going, but...I did find another means to bolster her will, one that I believe will strengthen your resolve as well."
"What is it?"
Eden turned away, walking towards the waterfall before reaching in and taking out something. "I'm afraid I do not have access to all of your wife's lost memories. We are not as connected as she and Rain are, after all. However, due to...circumstances, I do have a set of memories that may yet push you forward. This talesman belonged to your wife in life. It is the key to a truth that you may yet have figured out for yourself. Give it to Rain and she will guide you through the memories."
Yami now held a small statue in his hand, an idol, he recognized from the previous memory. "Wait, how do you have this?"
"You will learn that when the time is right. Now go."
Time moved forward and Yami and Rain were back in the canyon.
"I have to say, I'm not gonna get used to that." Rain joked before noticing something in Yami's hand. "Hey, what's that?"
Yami held it up. "I don't know. Eden gave it to me and said it belonged to (Y/N), that was the key to memories that will give me strength. I know it's an idol but I can't remember which god it is."
"Hand it here, Pharaoh." Rain asked as Yami obliged, making a weird face as she examined it. "I know this goddess. It's Taurt. You can tell by the hippo head. Why would (Y/N) have an idol of hers?"
"Didn't one of you once tell me that individuals would keep idols to gods they wished to gain the protection of in their rooms?"
"Yeah, but it doesn't make sense why (Y/N) would need her protection. Taurt's the protector of women in...childbirth..." The two looked at each other with wide eyes as that one word put every memory of Egypt they had had recently into perspective. "There's...there's no way..."

At once, they were flung into memories of the past. Yami saw the previous memory of him and (Y/N) at their window, talking about her visit to the healers. This time everything was silent, but Yami didn't need the words. He saw his past self look at (Y/N) in distress before she took his hands and placed them on her stomach. His eyes went wide, looking to her for confirmation, as she smiled, worriedly, and nodded. Slowly, a joyful smile crept onto his face as he pulled her into her arms and began kissing her face, the two of them laughing and crying silently in joy.
"Oh gods..." Rain said, before a meow got their attention.
They turned to see the cat that had been with (Y/N) before. Seeing their attention on her, she led them to a door, disappearing as she crossed the threshold, racing in, they were again in the bedroom, but this time, past Yami and (Y/N) were now on their bed, the queen disheveled and exhausted, but smiling with such joy. The two were solely fixated on a small bundle in the queen's arms as a small hand reached out and wrapped around the pharaoh's finger.

Rain covered her mouth as the memory ended. "You two had a kid."
"...our son." Yami finally remembered.

What, you think I made that Epic the Musical comparison last time and didn't have a stand in for Telemachus? I've got a name in mind, but try and I want to see your guys' names for him (he's got a Wayfarer name, so you aren't bound to just Egypt, just that time period). Okay, so now that I've written the full history between Eden, Timaeus, and Dartz, I wanted to talk about the main virtue which gives the Millennium Bracelet its power and the attribute most associated with its masters: selflessness. The Millennium Bracelet, and truly the process in creating it, was not just a singular act of selflessness, but multiple: Timaeus lost an eye to sword (fun fact, Dartz knew damn well Timaeus would jump in front of the sword) and then took a follow-up hit (same shtick) to give Eden the opening to cast the spell; Eden not only sacrificed her life to forage the bracelet, but also bound her spirit to remain until Dartz was defeated, effectively cutting her off from Timaeus until the mission was completed; and Eden's own students willingly gave up their own lives to ensure the world would be saved and their descendants would have the tool to end the fight in the future. You can also tie this back to the initial Wayfarers who chose not rebuild Atlantis, but venture out into the world to gather knowledge should Leviathan return. (Y/N) would go on to make a similar sacrifice as Timaeus, while Rain is always willing to put the well-being of others before herself, both of which are also examples of why selflessness can also be their detriment. This core virtue is also why (in this story at least) the Seven Millennium Items have corruption in them. If you know the full backstory from the anime/manga, the need to create them was genuine and an act of desperation, but not only did they create more than what was necessary, the sacrifices weren't freely given, and thus, allowed the darkness in. Another thing is that while Dartz himself is not part of the reincarnation process, not only does he disregard (Y/N) and Rain as individuals and seeks to completely eradicate them to get to Eden, his influence created a similar scenario for both of them: a friend turned enemy who's selfishness threatens the world, with the stand ins being Bakura and Marik. Bakura, who still has some backstory with (Y/N) left, effectively destroyed his friendship with her because the relationship he wanted wasn't what she wanted and he refused to accept it, while Marik (rightfully upset at the hand he had been dealt, and quite frankly I believe his father did have karma coming) didn't just chose to leave his family's legacy behind, he wanted to eradicate everything they stood for, which ultimately led him to being at odds with Rain who he ultimately still wanted to be friends with. Marik also repented, being willing to sacrifice himself to make sure his dark half couldn't hurt anyone ever again, which ultimately allowed him to begin mending things with his siblings and Rain. But, maybe I'm just being pretentious. On another note, I had a ton of little ideas that I would mind making into extra chapters if you guys are interested, stuff like how Chris met Skye; how Dartz, Iona, Hermos, and Critias played matchmakers for Eden and Timaeus, stuff like that.