A/N: Hey guys, sorry for the long wait, but I had writer's block ^_^|| hope this chapter will make up for it. This chapter 1 was originally meant to be set after the Fortune Cup but... After having a visit from the plot bunny, the context says otherwise. Not looking forward to changing the other chapters now... but it must be done.
Again, please take some time to read this and let me know how it is.

Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's in any possible way, and all belong to their respective owners.

Here yah' go~

Chapter 1

'Korinah darling, remember you have an important night ahead of you.' An old-aged woman passed by, reminding her brunette-haired granddaughter slouched on a sofa. She seemed to be dressed in her academy attire.

In their living room, there was at least one corner sofa in a shade of cream which was placed near one of the many corners of the room on the far right, with another smaller sofa opposing it — this is where Korinah currently is. In the middle of them both, sat a glassed coffee table — looking like it had recently been cleaned. A wall of windows and a glass balcony door stole the space, accompanied by an autumn plant made up of small orange leaves hugging the corner of the wall. Beyond the doors lead to their native garden full of vibrant bushes and plants. Pink petals drifted in the wind — due to the cherry blossom tree that towered over the green, spacious lawn. At the far end of the room (left from the garden) there was a big outspread staircase covered in a shade of beech — as well as the banisters, as a row of ivory balustrades held them up on either side. A silver sixty-inch plasma TV had its place at the front of the room, sitting on a modern black unit, along with a DVD set. Lastly, a white six-and-a-half room arch sat under the large staircase.

'Grandmother, I'm not sure about tonight — I have other things to attend to.' A seventeen year-old female responded in a murmur so quietly, her grandmother only just heard her. There must be some legit idea why Korinah was behaving in such a reserved manner. Her friends have tried and failed coaxing out her problems, but having so much stuff on her mind always made herself wonder into a world of her own — excluding everyone but of course, herself. However, at this time, only a couple of things lingered at the front of her brain:
1) She had the same nightmare again through the previous night, and
2) She'd received a letter three days ago from Director Goodwin – a man who she had never trusted.
The second one in particular was provoking her the most, as she couldn't bear the thought of Rex Goodwin and Blaine Suzuki being the best of friends with another man called Dr Fudo. She didn't really take much notice to which Dr or Mr Fudo is, but the fact that her dad and Rex used to be so close...

'It sickens me to the point of death itself.' Whispered Korinah, as she sank deeper into the sofa. Her grandmother left the room as the saw firsthand how Korinah kept to herself — they were nothing she could do. Korinah's trails of thought lead her to notice the white and grey school bag on the coffee table, along with her custom-made duel disk and deck. All three items seemed to be set apart by the right distance. It seemed intimidating to say the least. Korinah sat up and secured her disk onto her arm, as her deck had its home in a pouch on the inside of the royal blue blazer. She stood to her feet, smoothing down her black pleated skirt with a white trim at the bottom while inspecting the black tights she wore. Her blazer sleeves were rolled up over her slim, white shirt to increase her freedom of movement and her slim grey tie and top button both undone. Instead of wearing her school shoes, white Converses were on her feet in mint condition. Reaching into her bag once the self inspection was done, Korinah scribbled a note and stuck it on the table before leaving for the room arch.
She fished out a white iPhone from the depths of her pocket and checked the time. Twenty-five past five. Will she stick around for the exam? Or leave? Her decision was now made, proving her hasty movements. Korinah now assigned herself a task to avoid the wrath of her protective grandma and her friends before their arrival.

'I know I shouldn't be caught talking to myself but, right now, I really don't want to stick around any longer,' Korinah quietly said to herself, taking a right down one of the many hallways filled with the same light gray carpet and clear white walls. They were without a single trace of dirt on them, 'Especially when the guys are coming round in less than a minute. It'll be good if I could find the quickest route out of this maze...' After having that said she picked up the pace, weaving though another passage way, skipping steps as she practically jumped down them, taking a left and ending up at the foyer. Stepping out towards the landing of two conjoined staircases, she rested her hands on the banister in front of her. She admired the sun warming up the big room, making her crack a small grin.
Sun feels so good here; I could never be bored of this. Let's wait around a little before I go, I'm feeling homesick already. She mocked. Korinah looked back to make sure there was no sign of her grandmother looking for her — fortunately not. Her eyes were kept on the entrance as she began to descend the staircase on the left. She kept a steady pace across the marble floor. She reached her hand across the shiny door knob — so shiny that you could see your reflection in it and turned it anti-clockwise, about to feel freedom-

'Hey c'mon Jen, you always do it — let someone else have a go.' A male voice spoke on the other side of the wall which made Korinah's eyes widen and freeze in her current position. She could recognize that voice anywhere.

A female spoke this time, 'Last time you tried Jaï, it said "unauthorised user" and it nearly
had the whole house on lockdown! Probably reason why this house must have survived the earthquake two decades ago...!'

'Very funny...' The male named Jaï slowly replied.
Jaï, he's here – they're here already? Damn, I must've lost track of time! Need to get out of here before they open the door... Korinah slowly turned the knob back in place, trying to prevent making any noise and backed away. Seeing their silhouettes in the blurred windows on other side of the door, and becoming one step after the other on getting inside, caused her to back away even more from her former idle position.
Where to hide, where to hide...? She thought to herself, when a pillar came into her line of view. Diving behind it at the side of the foyer, Korinah waited as she heard Jen speaking to the "computer identifier" at the door.

'Jen Miki Endou... house visit... Korinah Eri Suzuki... two hours... and thank you very much. Viola, guys were in, now... to call Korri'...' She said walking in the foyer, as she fished out her phone from her blazer pocket and held it to her ear. She also must be another student that goes to her academy — Jen's skirt was slightly shorter than Korinah's, and wore black stockings instead of tights. Her tie was loosely done up along with a tight-looking shirt with its top button undone. Meanwhile, behind the pillar, Korinah felt her phone tremble in her right pocket, being thankful that it was already on vibe. She squeezed her eyes shut, praying to herself that they would just settle in her living room, and not catch her suddenly hiding behind a white pillar. Prayers answered thank goodness as she heard their footsteps moving towards one of the stairways — this also had to cause Korinah to turn, opposing their position.

'She's not picking up... well she might not be with her phone or something. Now Wyatt,' the red-haired mentioned, as she scaled the stairs, 'why couldn't Renée make it today? And before you rage on me again, I forgot.' Wyatt, a caramel-skinned male and indigo hair rested his hands on his hips before replying. He wore black drain-pipe trousers with no white trim and his blazer unworn but under his arm. Wyatt's rolled up shirt however was slim fitted, showing some of his defined muscles under the white fabric. Just like the others, his slim tie wasn't done up. A pair of chequered vans was on his feet.

He sighed, 'for the hundredth time... she needed to do a deck construction and get some duel cards from home — syncros and tuners to be specific, because you know, we have one of our last survival duel exams tonight... because she happened to forget...' Acting out air quotes for the last three words.

'... And it must've slipped your mind, right Jen?' The soft voice belonging to Jaï, finishing up Wyatt's sentence for him. His academy outfit looked very identical to Wyatt's, but without his shirt tucked in and converses like Jen, unlike vans.

'Dammit' yeah... I was actually thinking about that all throughout this afternoon. I'm so dreading it though — do you know how dangerous it can get? And who does an exam on a Sunday? Just to focus without the younger years around, the invigilators say. Obviously gonna' flunk it as usual... and Korinah getting top grades like you.' Turning to him as she said the last bit.

'... Shut up Jen.'

'What did I say, Jaï?' She replied, flashing a toothy smile up at Wyatt — he also seemed to understand what she meant.

'You didn't have to say anything.'

'Look man, you and Korri' are both reckless in there, you're both made for-' Wyatt started, in which Jaï cut him off — it obviously seemed as if he didn't want to hear any more. Or get any redder. Jen ruffled his blonde hair in an attempt to console him, however it made no affect.

'Let's get one thing straight — nothing's happening between us. Whatever, we gotta' let her know we're here.' Said Jaï, as he speed-walked though the large passage Korinah went through earlier. Both Jen and Wyatt trailed behind — sniggering quietly, leaving him and Korinah blushing in embarrassment.
Guys, I'm really sorry but I'm not going to show up tonight. Best of luck and be careful, I'm rooting for you all. Taking the only opportunity, she swiftly ran up towards her front door, only to click it shut behind her.

...

Around twenty minutes later, and still walking on one of the many busy streets of New Domino City, she couldn't help but feel bad by the way she ditched her friends, despite this matter she had to attend to — the letter. In fact, Korinah was actually holding it in her hands this very second — overwhelmed by the strong perfume of the printed piece of paper, reading it countless times as she strolled down the street. Her stomach turned inside of her, letting her mind wander all too much as to what could possibly happen to her health and most importantly, her well-being. All sorts of people were on their way to their destination and their own way to avoid bumping into an odd looking young adult like Korinah. Orderly-fashioned adults (formal wear as usual), groups of hyperactive girls that looked around one or two years younger than her and small groups of boys which would rather loiter around and rate passing females by looks and body figure. There were also parents around, keeping their young child in up-most utopia. As the letter found a new home in her pocket, Korinah decided to write a text message: "I'm so sorry, love you all. Don't call back, K x". Now to figure out whom to send it to.
Grandmother doesn't use her phone much, Renée's out, and Jen would totally freak out, being the person she is... that leaves Wyatt and Jaï. Wyatt might bottle it up until the last minute, come to think of it, so I guess it's Jaï then. Flicking through her contact list, Korinah's thumb wavered over his name: Jaï Corbyn Hiroki. Apart from Wyatt, he was the one guy who really felt for her, even when things were going rough. She remembered their conversation earlier back at hers — how he reacted to Jen's comments, how he wanted to change the subject, and how she reacted herself — red with hidden romance. The tips of Korinah's lips curved at the thought of his smile, and she didn't hesitate to tap the send button. After putting it away, she decided to hang around on a nearby bench and soak in some sun rays — and why shouldn't she? It was about time she needed to relax, walking for the past twenty-five minutes, under the gruelling heat is near torture — well, in what she's wearing that is. Academy uniforms can overheat your body especially, but there wasn't much choice.
I should've changed out of these clothes, if I knew better... but oh well, the weather's nice though. She thought to herself, as she relaxed even more on the wooden seat — what else could possibly go wrong?

... Perhaps maybe a phone call.

Watching the dark sun in the horizon as the day was fading into the night; Korinah felt her phone vibrate in pocket. A positive feeling arose inside of her, even though the text said not to call back. She smiled as her right hand dived straight for it. She looked at the caller ID: "Unknown". Korinah held her breath — she thought it was a little suspicious that someone would call her without a display. Letting the phone shake in her fingers, she pondered on the situation.
That's pretty weird. If Jaï were to call, and he didn't have credit, he would normally use Wyatt's phone — or better still the girl's. One of us at least has credit, so I don't understand. Well I guess he went to such measures to call me, and that's sweet. She opted to answer it anyway.

'Hello? Jaï, is that you?' No answer. 'Hello...?' Still no answer. 'Tck.' She began to lift the phone away from her ear, when the person on the other end replied.

'Don't even think about putting the phone down,' a cold voice on the other end sent bitter shivers down her spine. The type you would get in the films when the caller on the receiving end has that weird altered voice. But this one in particular had somewhat of an accent, 'did you not read the letter sent to you, or are you just physically blind?' The 'male' on the other side boomed, finishing his sentence. Korinah formed a face of confusion and shock.
Who the hell is this person?

'Who are you, and what do you want from me?' She lifted the phone from her ear and practically punched the red button... but something wasn't right. She repeated to press the home button instead, but nothing seemed to be happening.
Hey the call isn't ending... and... I cant switch this thing off! What's going on around here? She had no other choice but to listen to what the guy on the other end had to say.

'Alright what have you done to my phone?' Korinah shouted, demanding an answer — again, no reply. She had to ignore the minimal attention she was receiving to focus on the situation at hand. 'Alright then, if you choose not to talk then I'll-'

'I've infiltrated your phone's system. You have no control over it anymore. What do you plan on doing now?' He taunted. She scowled. She rose to her feet and decided to walk — taking into account how much time she had used sitting around, holding the phone to her ear. Her destination was now towards the park — her body temperature needed to lower.
It's getting a little too hot for my liking. I need to find a fountain of some sort. But that letter... I need to extremely cautious once I enter that park. And that's what she did. After a while of endless walking, Korinah strolled towards the ivory marble and knelt down towards the water. She stared at her reflection as the water rippled and glistened in the late evening.

Get a grip of yourself, Korinah. You can get through this. In a matter of nights, Goodwin will leave you alone. Just get through this one and you'll be fine.

Leaning forwards, she cupped a small amount in her hand and slowly lifted it to her face and neck — trying her best to cool down her body temperature.
One last rinse. She lifted one last cup of water to dampen her arms. There. Now to figure out what to do. Korinah turned her attention back to her phone. The call was still active — twenty-two minutes, and counting. She turned to sit with her back against the fountain. Finally getting another breather felt good, after a long evening so far. The sudden thought of her family and friends crept into Korinah's mind again, which made her blatantly smile to herself. A few passers-by noticed this and have shot her a few awkward glances — this in return caused her small grin to deplete.
It feels like a long time since I've smiled like that before... I just hope I do again soon... She thought to herself, but order to do so, Korinah had to get through the worst of the storm — and knew perfectly how to do it. With hesitation, she picked it up and held it to her ear, waiting for the second lecture the male on the other end was going to say. No answer once again. Korinah sighed.

'... Finished with your shower? As far as I know, it won't make a difference where you're going.' She shot to her feet and frantically began to look around, and yet another shiver crept down her spine — wait. How did he know she was cooling herself down? Korinah, told herself to be cautious, but how on earth could she forget? Her eyes widened at the thought and decided to reply back.

'Who- no wait, how do you know where I am?' As usual, he was rather slow at replying which in a way ate her up, as she felt time was running out for some reason. Korinah didn't seem to take much nonsense anymore, 'Well? Are you going to say something or not?'

'I wouldn't stand around in the same spot for a long time; you would eventually attract a lot of unwanted attention.'
What kind of sad riddle is he trying to get me to solve now? Stand around... attract attention... it suddenly clicked. Korinah's face slowly lifted to notice numerous men in black suits and matching sunglasses peeping round trees and bushes. She did the same as she turned around — everywhere. And they were closing the gap in each second.

'This has got to be some sick joke... seriously.' The sound of a ticking clock made its way into her ears.

'Time's wasting Korinah. I warned you, or did I not?' Korinah's entire hands began to shake, almost as if the atmosphere's temperature just instantly dropped. Her breathing sped up; she felt the oxygen she was breathing being sapped away from those men ever closing in on her.
I'm so stupid! How could I have been so exposed like that? Stay calm. Stay calm...
She heard a sound through her phone, but Korinah only managed to deduce his last few words.

'... You hear me? I said open the letter and read it!' This unexpected outburst made her jump back into full reality and did what he asked without hesitation. It was only a matter of time when those goons were going to capture her and goodness knows what would
happen next. She fumbled in her pocket once again, trying to ignore the incense that came with the pristine letter, 'read it out loud.' A deep breath followed his reply and tried to control her breathing. At least it sounded more controlled as it did a minute ago.

'Dear Korinah. Because we wasn't able to meet each other the last time I tried to get hold of you, I personally invite you to my mansion on Sunday at eight-thirty, for us to have a little chat about a few pressing matters about our history and a few other things. It would best to meet up with my PA at park Domino near the fountain, thus not knowing the location of my residence. If you refuse however, then we will have to take drastic measures to make sure you come. Hopefully we would not need to result in such actions and you shall be obedient to oblige. Yours faithfully, Director Goodwin. It would be best to take your duel disk and your deck with you for other reasons.' She glanced up from the letter to find those goons even more closely than she last noticed. There had to be at least a dozen of them around.

'... Good luck.' The monotonous tone was all she could hear after his two word advice. She was now on her own. Korinah felt the need to put her phone away immediately. She suddenly scowled. The next thing she sensed was something damp growing within her clenched hands. Korinah closed her eyes and hung her head, hoping that her survival instincts won't kick in as quickly as they usually do. All that was needed was to think differently — and fast. How would this situation suit her best? Korinah began to rack her
brain; play-fighting? Not a chance — it's hardly recess. Video gaming? Getting there. Survival Exam? Spot on.
I should consider this as a practice run. Now I just wait for the right moment... Her body shivered, her instincts telling her that the goons were indeed very close. Korinah braced herself for the worst, trying to imagine herself in a holographic stimulator she and other students use for exams. Her first time was rather memorable — her unique fighting style and speed won over most students in her year, even a young Jaï in which their relationship flourished. Surprisingly for her, she thought she would've never wound up with the four best friends she has now...

A hand whacked her shoulder which pulled her into reality. Korinah whipped around to confirm that the goons have entered her personal space. She immediately reacted by pulling him towards her by the wrist and kneeing the suited man in the crown jewels. He doubled over in pain and she barged through the human wall and broke for it.
The goons were tailing on her, which made Korinah run more desperately. This was no ordinary escape — her life was hanging by a thread, and Goodwin was blatantly pulling the strings. She turned a corner and noticed a bright light at the end of the road — freedom was near! Her fast footsteps got herself closer: fifteen meters... ten... five. She was losing them slowly...

Korinah halted almost immediately to what she had encountered, briefly forgetting about the goons until slamming into a brick wall from behind. Various forces struggled with her until she was frozen in position. All what Korinah's eyes were glued on was a small male she tried so hard not to find. All that was deduced was a red opulent coat, thus the bright exposure of light. Temporarily ignoring two humans already at the scene, he walked up to the female suspended against the wall. He sniggered disturbingly.

'Game over, Suzuki.'

A/N: Well, that's chapter 1 for you - to be honest I don't really like it much myself, seems somewhat... wordy (need. to. stop. using. so. much. adjectives...).
I'll type up Chapter 2 as quickly as I can so there won't be much of a 2 month wait like last time ^_^||
So I'm off for the meantime, so it's goodbye from me =]

M1ainfinite~