FIRE

FIRE 14

"Please, don't hurt them." The scarred man begged with his throaty voice, limping pathetically to stand in front of his mother and sister protectively even as the Great Emperor's warriors surround them. He should've known they would be able to track him. Even if he knew of every secret path and hidden tunnel in the palace to move about undetected, his condition would easily allow others to follow him. But he didn't think they'd come like this, fully armed as if prepared to kill. He really thought his family would be safe. "Please, they knew nothing."

"Yin..." His mother whimpered, clutching at his arm as she tried to hide her crying daughter behind her.

No one said a word. Not even one of them showed mercy in their eyes. It seemed like all hope had abandoned them when suddenly, the three warriors in front of them parted and the man he never thought he'll see again walked through.

"The Great Emperor of Bakura!" His mother gasped, her hold on him tightening yet he couldn't feel anything but his fear. He stepped back, head bowed low in shame as he tried to cover his burnt with a hand. Not that it'll matter, he suddenly thought. He's beyond recognition now. He's too broken, a different man than he ever was and could never be again. With that newfound realization, he steeled his heart and stood tall again to face him.

But he was not prepared for his tear streaked face.

For the haunted longing he could clearly see in his eyes.

For his pain.

"My Love..." The Great Emperor called, dragging his heavy feet forward to the frozen man. Heaven help him!

He'd seen him move... heard him talk... saw his scars...

His heart clenched painfully. Though nothing is the same, he recognize him!

He still know him.

He still hear him.

He still see him.

His Beloved! His Love! In front of him! Alive! Neither his mind nor heart could fathom it. He could barely breathe. "Jaejoong? My Beloved... Is that really you? You're alive?" Despite his conviction, he doesn't know what else to say. Words failed him and he needed to be certain! It can't be just another of his dream, can it? That'll be too cruel, after all of this time. He rushed forward and wrenched him into his arms. He heaved a cry so pleased when the man feel solid in his embrace, fit so well in his arms that it reminded him of long forgotten but familiar intimacy.

It is him, alright.

"At last, my Love! My Beloved Crown Prince of Yani, I found you!"