A Whisper of Time || Yu-Gi-Oh Book 1 ||

Chapter 21

Atem had permission to leave the next day. The doctor recommended a lot of rest, the injury wasn't serious, and it would be fully healed in a few days. Téa was searching for a way to fix the mirror or create a new one if possible. Téa had insisted on Atem taking a rest, he had done plenty for her. Téa even went to the afterlife, searching his library and seeking the help of his priests but without success.

Currently, grandpa had some things to pick up while Yugi arranged stock in the back of the shop. They were concerned about Atem and didn't want to make him do anything but rest. However, there was no one to stay behind the counter in case someone came so Atem suggested helping.

"I'm fine now, I can do it." Atem insisted once again.

"But son, you were injured, you need to rest." Grandpa tried to convince him.

"I'm okay now Grandpa, I promise." Mr Muto sighed; it was a lost fight.

"Alright, I'll be back as soon as possible." Once grandpa gave Atem guidance, he went to check on Yugi.

The younger boy was moving some boxes taking inventory. Grandpa told him Atem would be behind the counter until his return. Yugi promised to keep an eye on his brother just in case. Finally, Yugi's grandfather had to leave or he would be late for his tasks.

Mokuba Kaiba was growing rapidly, taking after his brother. Mokuba was almost fifteen and soon he would be almost as tall as his brother. His hair was shorter by a couple of inches but still long to his brother's annoyance. The older Kaiba was strict and cold as usual. The more Mokuba grew, the bolder he became. Seto Kaiba was in for a lot of trouble later. Mokuba liked Yugi and his friends, they were nice to him and he enjoyed spending time with them. Mokuba had been busy lately but now he was headed for the game shop. Yugi wouldn't mind his company, he might even help him if he was busy. Mokuba entered the shop seeing Yugi was on the counter, helping his grandfather.

"Hey, Yugi! I haven't seen you in a while. Big brother and I are busy with some projects." Yugi looked at him in shock.

Just then Mokuba realised something was odd. Yugi looked so... different. He was a lot more mature than Mokuba remembered and he was taller too. Mokuba did not expect him to have changed so much.

"Yugi... you've changed. Wow, I didn't expect to find you so different." Mokuba laughed a bit. On the other hand, Atem was nervous as he didn't want to lie to Mokuba, but it would be hard to explain his presence.

"Mokuba I..." Yugi chose this exact moment to come from the store.

"Hey bro, I'm halfway through the stock. Do you want me to give you a hand behind the counter?" Yugi asked while carrying a box with him. Yugi didn't notice the younger boy who looked in utter confusion at the two Yugis.

"Yugi? But... what's going on?" Mokuba was confused.

How there were two Yugis? Wait, was this... Atem but how? Mokuba had no explanation as to how and what was going on. They looked so alike; they could even pass for twins. Last time Mokuba saw Atem, he was going into the afterlife. Going through that door meant Atem would be gone for good. Yet here he was.

"I don't understand. Atem, that's you but how?" Mokuba spoke again waiting for a reply, any reply from the guys.

Atem looked nervously at Yugi. Atem didn't want to let more people know of this situation. Atem wasn't here to stay. However, Mokuba needed answers and he wasn't stupid. Sighing, Atem nodded at Yugi who expected some kind of sign from him.

"Come inside, I'll explain it all." Yugi turned at his brother then. "Atem, will you be okay staying here? Grandpa won't be too happy if we close the shop."