Tail 9: Homecoming

It was near the end of September now, the weather growing colder as Yuji and his group traveled a little further up north. The Lancelot was rolling along the huge highway as Neo Domino lay straight in the distance.

"I'm finally back," Yuji sighed as he saw the city.

"So, this is your home?" Misato assumed.

"Neo Domino City," Yuji nodded, "This place takes the lickings and keeps on kicking."

"Nice name," Michiru smiled, "Like those domino tiles that we used to stack up for fun."

"Why is it called Neo Domino City anyway?" Hana inquired.

"Well, I don't know why exactly. What I do know that Neo Domino was home to Yugi Muto, the first King of Games, a long time ago."

"Yuji, where will you be taking us now?" Ruby asked.

"First thing we're gonna do is see my dad," Yuji informed, "He should know where Washam is. I'm sure we'll find Bianca somewhere soon since she loves popping out from nowhere. Next stop, Neo Domino Science Institute!"

"Hey, what's that?" Riza as she pointed ahead. They all saw what looked like a giant diamond ring.

"Oh, that's the center of the Daedalus Highway," Yuji identified, "It sumbolizes the union between the Satellite and the mainland. My parents got married under that thing."

"That's so romantic~" Ruby sighed dreamily.

Misato was shaking in the shotgun seat in anticipation. Soon she would be reunited with the man whom she was proud to call father. She felt like shouting out his name to get his attention, wherever he was in the city.

"Something wrong?" Yuji asked, glancing at Misato off the corner of his eye.

"I just...I can't wait to see him again!" she said excitedly.

Yuji held out a hand for her, "If there's anyone who knows where he is, it's Dad."

Misato accepted his hand as their fingers interlocked, "I've always wanted to meet your parents...but..."

"But...?"

Misato shook a little, "Will they like me? Will they like us? I'm not exactly someone who has a clean rap sheet."

"Ha, then they've got stories for you guys," he laughed.


The doors to the institute slides open and the group walks in, coming to the front desk.

"Can I help you?" the desk clerk asked.

"I'm here for Yusei Fudo," Yuji said.

"Ah, Fudo-san!" the clerk recognized, "Fudo-hakase has been expecting you."

"The girls are with me," Yuji added.

"I see," he acknowledge, "Please proceed."

Yuji nodded and the group made their way into an elevator as it went up.

"Do you think he'll like us?" Michiru asked worriedly. She had Mia in her arms.

Yuji patted her head, "I don't see why not. Dad's not judgmental, despite fighting cyborgs from the future back in the day."

"You mentioned that before, but you never went into detail," Hana mentioned.

"Ancient evil gods, cyborgs from another timeline, crooked cops, gangsters," Yuji listed, "Dad's pretty much done it all."

"I'm amazed that GIN-SHOCKER hadn't had them targetted considering their potential threat level," Hana mused.

"Did I mention they saved the world by playing a card game?" Yuji grinned.

"I guess that minimizes it for GIN-SHOCKER," she shrugged, "They don't play card games."

"Well, I don't think GIN-SHOCKER would even exist if Team Satisfaction were still together," Yuji mused.

"Speaking of satisfaction, you sure satisfied us before we got here~" Misato purred into Yuji's neck.

"Well, I'm glad you're happy," he smiled.

Riza made a gagging gesture, "I think I'm gonna barf... What's Team Satisfaction anyway?"

"Dad, Uncle Jack, Uncle Crow and Uncle Kiryuu," Yuji listed, "They were their own private assassination group when they were teenagers."

"Assassins?"

"What's wrong with that?" Misato asked.

"I mean...killing people for money," the Werewolf frowned.

"It helps that their targets weren't really good guys," the man of the group added, "Trust me. They deserved it."

"Assassins with morals," Riza chuckled.

"When you live in the Satellite, you have to do what you can to survive," Yuji stated sagely, "There are no second chance at life. At least, that's how it was."

Misato deadpanned, "Yuji, Michiru, Hana and I got second chances at life, remember?"

"Thanks to a certain madman," Yuji muttered with a frown.

Riza blinked, "Second chance?" She's still in the dark.

"Oh, they were killed a year ago and were recently revived," Ruby informed.

"ZOMBIES!-?" she gaped.

"We're not zombies. We're cyborgs," Hana corrected.

What the hell has Riza gotten herself into?

"Well, that's not what I meant by second chance," Misato denied, "We were revived, but we were still working for GS...until Yuji convinced us there was a way out." She hugged Yuji, her breasts pressing against him and smiling whistfully, "Yuji, you gave us a second chance."

Yuji smiled as he hugged Misato back. He was real lucky to have met them.

The elevator stopped and the group piled out as scientists were working all over the place.

"Busy place," Hana blinked.

"Ah, Fudo-kun!"

"Good to have you back!"

"When did you get back?"

Greetings like this continued as Yuji returned them with his own.

"You seem really popular," Misato noted.

"Dad used to take Yuki and I to work a lot when we were kids," Yuji answered. He then spots a figure with other scientists. "Dad!"

The man turned to show himself. He was well-bodied, with lightly tanned skin and deep blue eyes. His hair was the same style as Yuji's but his highlights were gold instead of red and he had a gold marking down the left side of his face. He was in a lab coat, blue dress shirt and slacks.

"Yuji," Yusei smiled. The two men shook hands and shared a hug. "It's good to see you again."

"Same here," Yuji nodded, "And there are some people I want you to meet."

"Hi, I'm Misato," the purple-haired girl introduced.

"Michiru!" she beamed.

"Hana," the goth bowed.

"I'm Ruby," the Witch smiled, "It's nice to meet you."

"Riza Wildman," the Werewolf introduced.

"Yusei Fudo," he introduced.

Yuji outstretched his arms over the girls' shoulders and grinned, "They're my girlfriends!"

Yusei blinked, "You've been busy since you left."

"Well, you know, shit happens," he smiled.

"So, what brings you back home?"

Thus, the group headed up to Washam's office. They stand in front of the door and Misato fidgeted slightly.

Yuji hugged her close, whispering to her, "Just relax. If Dad says he's in there then he's definitely in there."

Yusei swiped a card through the security slot and the door slid open. Inside was a huge lab and inside was a big dude, sleeping at his desk. "He fell asleep again," Yusei sighed, "I keep warning him about breaking night all the time."

Misato walked over and put her hand on his shoulder to shake him awake.

"Huh?" the giant groaned. He smacked his lips and yawned. He then looked at Misato and gaped. "...I must be dreaming again..."

"You're not dreaming, Daddy," Misato teared.

He stood up, turning out to be towering over the girl, with tanned skin, brown eyes and bald. He was in a muscle shirt, a labcoat and slacks. "Misato...?"

"Hello...Daddy..." she sobbed.

"Misato!" He hugs her and twirls Misato around, "My little Draculina! You're alive!"

Misato cries into her adopted father's chest. "I've missed you."

"So she's the daughter Washam was talking about," Yusei recalled.

"That's right, Dad," Yuji nodded.

Washam then spots the others by the door, "Oh, Professor..."

"I keep telling you about those all-nighters, Washam," Yusei scolded, "You need to take care of your body."

"Daddy always pulled all-nighters as a habit," Misato smiled.

"Well, I needed to be thorough when I worked on you," Washam chuckled.

He then spots Hana and Michiru He then spots Hana and Michiru, "#7? #11? What are you two doing here?"

"Don't call us by our old numbers, Dr. Washam, please," Hana requested.

"And we're here because Yuji-kun brought us here," Michiru beamed.

Washam blinked, "Yuji?"

"Hi, I'm Yuji," Yuji waved.

"So you're the Professor's boy," he marveled as he looked between the two Fudos, "Amazing, you're almost like twins."

"We get that sometimes," he remarked.

Washam and Misato are still looking at each other.

"Still working out?" she asked.

"Of course. Check out these guns!" He flexes his arms to show off to his daughter.

Misato laughs, "You always did that to cheer me up when I was feeling down!"

"Wow, I've never seen you this happy before, Misato," Yuji mused.

She hugged Washam, "I got my Daddy back."

"And I have my little Draculina back," he smiled. "Oh, something you might like." He went to the fridge and then pulled out a blood packet and tossed it to Misato. She smiled and started feasting while Washam addressed Yuji, "So, you're friends with the girls?"

Yuji tried to correct him, "Well, to be specific, I'm-"

"Our boyfriend," the girls chorused.

Washam looked at Yuji sternly, "Oh...I see..."

Yuji gulped and shrunk under the goliath's gaze, "Well, shit happened..."

He crossed his arms, "So, you think you're good enough for my Little Draculina, boy?"

"Um...well, we've been friends for a while and she's really cool," declared.

"So, Boy, lemme ask you this...do you think you're good enough for my Misato?"

Yuji then got serious, "Well, that's for Misato to decide. I've only done my best in taking her and the others in and I've grown close with all of them. They're my friends, and I'd do anything for them."

Washam smirked, "Anything...?"

"Daddy...please..." Misato tried to call.

"Well, let's see you prove it," he challenged.

"What you got in mind?" the Manakyte asked.

"Ever wrestled?"

"And here we go," Misato sighed.

"Well, no..." Yuji sweatdropped.

Washam grins.

"I get the feeling I just fucked myself over..."


The two men were in a ring stretching before beginning.

"I can tell I'm going to be in a lot of pain when this is over," Yuji muttered.

Hana and Michiru were dressed as commentators while Yusei, Ruby and Riza sat together.

Misato took the roll of referee, wearing a white blouse with a bowtie and black short-shorts with thigh-high boots. "Is this really necessary, Daddy?"

"Of course it is, Misato," Washam assured, "I just want to see if this boy thinks he can be the man for you."

"Isn't that for me to decide?" she frowned

"Call it protective paternal instincts."

Misato frowned and looked over to Yuji, "Yuji, you really gonna go through with this?"

"I said I'll do anything for you and I'm gonna do it! Even if it means inducing bodily harm on my person," Yuji added, "Besides, the future boss of the Vongola's gotta be there for his girls!"

She huffed, "Fine! Let's get this over with! LET'S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!"

"That's the spirit!" Washam crowed.

Yuji roared and rushed ahead to land a punch into Washam's gut, making the giant skid back before not budging.

Michiru and Hana commentate on what happens

Michiru winced, "Is a human body supposed to bend that way?"

"I doubt it," Hana frowned.

Washam has Yuji face down on the ground. Then he sits and pulls Yuji's legs backwards

"GAH FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! GODDAMMIT!" Yuji cried.

Ruby trembled as she watched Yuji getting his ass kicked, "Shouldn't we do something?"

Riza handed her a bag of popcorn as she had some in her mouth, "Here, have some popcorn."

Yuji roared as he ignited like a torch, forcing Washam back. "Ah! So you do have power! Good! Good!" He slams his fists together, "This will be FUN!" Washam charges at Yuji and clotheslines him

Yuji flipped and fell on his back, twisting back on his feet as he rubbed his neck. He was covered in his scales and he coughed in reflex. "Dammit... It's a good thing I've got a tough body, or my head would be on the floor right now."

"That's an idea!" Washam grinned.

"We never did cover wrestling," Yusei frowned regrettably.

"And Washam takes Yuji down with a brutal pile driver!" Michiru crowed. "That has got to hurt!"

"This is barbaric!" Ruby cried.

"It's wrestling," Hana sighed.

Yuji fell to his knees, panting as he started losing his vision. "I don't know how much more I can take... But...I can't kill him. MIsato's so happy to see him again, and I can't just take her smile away..."

Washam stood across from Yuji, "Ready to give up, boy?"

"Not until...I get one...good...hit!" Yuji growled as he struggled to his feet.

The former GS scientist smiled, "I like you're spirit, boy."

'Hurry up. This is getting boring.'

Yuji looked around before shouting to the sky, "Shut up! You're not the boss of me, asshole!"

Washam then frowned, "You're a rude young man."

Yuji pointed to Washam, "Not you! Abyss talks too fucking much!

Washam looks to Misato for an explanation.

"Split personality," she clarified.

'You're the weakest of us,' Abyss said in Yuji's mind, 'You can't even beat this old man in a simple fight.'

"OH YEAH? I'LL SHOW YOU!" Yuji roared.

He slams his fists together, igniting with flames as he lunged forward. "KARYUU NO...TEK-KEN!" Yuji roared as he launched a flaming fist right into Washam's gut, launching him into the ropes as he bounced back as Yuji ignited his feet. "KARYUU NO...KAGITSUME!" he roared as he double-kicked Washam.

"Yatta!" Michiru cheered, "Pin him, Yuji! Pin him!"

Yuji struggled to his feet, stumbling over to Washam's body before collapsing on top of him.

Misato tapped, "One! Two! Three!"

"I think they're unconscious," Yusei guessed.

"Help me carry them to the infirmary," Misato requested.


Yuji groans as he regains consciousness, staring up at a white ceiling.

"You OK?" Hana asked. She and Michiru were in their nurse outfits.

Yuji groaned, "What happened...?"

"You passed out after you won," Michiru smiled.

"Where's the Doc? Is he OK?"

"Misato's looking after him," she answered.

"Thank the Crimson Dragon," he sighed, "I was afraid I might've killed him."

Michiru giggled, "When Misato gets through with him, he'd probably wish you did."

"Damn, I'm sore all over..." Yuji groaned.

"Hana-chan, do you mind?"

"Sure," the goth nodded. She bites on the left side of Yuji's neck and he flinches. "I just injected a painkiller into your body," Hana informed, "It should take effect quickly."

"Hana-chan isn't just poisonous," Michiru added.

"It's a synthetized from a neurotoxin. It should temporarily kill the nerves that cause pain, soreness and discomfort," Hana explained.

"You're amazing," he smiled weakly.

"I'm a tarantula," she shrugged, "We always have tricks."

"I'm glad for that. I suppose I should take it easy for now," he sighed. He then blushed, "Can you bite me again?"

"YUJI!" A woman called as she rushed in. She had dark red hair tied back in a loose braid and wore a lab coat. She also had an impressive bust.

"Hey Mom," Yuji greeted. He was then pulled into the woman's cleavage.

"MY BABY!" the woman cried.

"Mom... I'm alright," Yuji blushed.

"He's on painkillers right now," Hana informed with a bow, "Hello, I'm Hana Nekozawa."

"I'm Aki Fudo," the woman introduced. She blinked, "Are you two new? I've never seen you in this hospital before."

"Oh, we don't really work here," Michiru smiled, "We're friends."

"Oh, alright then. Yuji, I heard what happened. You're sure you're alright?" He nodded. "Well, get some rest then."

"Don't worry, Mrs. Fudo! We'll give him our own brand of TLC!" Michikru beamed.

"You can trust us." Hana nodded.

"Don't worry, I have faith in my son's girlfriends," Aki smiled. "Just don't do anything I wouldn't." She winked and left the room.


"What were you thinking?-!" Misato snapped.

"I wanted to know if he was good enough for you!" Carl shot back.

"I think I'm old enough to decide that for myself! I know you're just looking out for me, but you could've snapped his neck!"

Carl grit his teeth in shame, "I just needed to know if he could protect you. I failed the last time."

Misato frowned, "We all got played because of that asshole, Gebok. Once we get our chance, we'll kill that bastard!"

"What of #13?" he asked.

"Well, he's alive but he's not the same as before," she sighed.

This made Carl blink with confusion, "How so?"

"He's a casanova," the girl deadpanned.

Carl looked at his adopted daughter flatly, "Are we talking about the same boy here?"

"He laughs now too," she added.

"But he never shows emotions...Oh, hello, Yusei."

Yusei had entered the room, standing by the wall, "Who's 13?"

"The most powerful of the NUMBERS," the fellow scientist frowned.

Yusei blinked, "NUMBERS?"

"Neo-Underworld Multi-Bionically Enhanced Revenge Squad," Misato spelled out.

"Is this that GIN-SHOCKER thing you were talking about that time at the bar?"

Washam nodded, "Pretty much."

Yusei gave this revelation some thought, "Cyborgs, huh? Reminds me of Yliaster..."

"Yup, 14 scientists were elected for the project. I was one of them. We were to choose our own subjects. I found Misato," Carl explained.

"So...you modified her," Yusei concluded.

"He did more than that," Misato cut in, "He raised me. Believe it or not, my family was a bunch of assholes."

"It was like hell for her," Carl spat, "Any longer and she might've died so I made an example of them. Misato didn't flinch at all the blood."

Misato then grinned, "Started my blood fetish since, right, Daddy?"

"I think Yuji made a good friend in you," Yusei mused.

"I questioned his logic. We were trying to kill him."

"I guess he decided to get himself involved with GIN-SHOCKER."

"He got himself involved when he reveals himself as a Rider," she corrected, "Riders are labled as enemies of SHOCKER since Kamen Rider Ichigo."

Yusei frowned, "So, they've been around for that long..."

"SHOCKER was the original organization," Misato began, "The organizations that followed were just new incarnations of the organization under different names."

"And their game plan has never changed," Bianca added as she walked in.

"Total world domination," the Mosquito Cyborg nodded, "They make weapons like us."

"Who are you?" Yusei asked.

"I'm Bianca, and I'm a hitman," she introduced.

"Bianca, you here to tell him or should I?" Misato asked.

"I'll wait until Ms. Aki is present," she replied while looking around. "Where are Ruby and Riza?"


The Witch and Werewolf were having a walk though the hall from the vending machine.

"So, what's the deal with you and Fudo?"

"It's a long story," Ruby sighed as she recalled the dark events of her past.

"Cut it short?"

"I was involved in a genocidal plan to destroy a city but he convinced me otherwise," the Wotch summarized.

"Bet he used his assets to do it," she grinned.

Ruby blushed, "It wasn't like that!"

"Well, you and the others seem real close," the Werewolf commented.

"We've fought together," Ruby smiled.

Riza sighed, "Having friends sounds nice."

Ruby smiled, "Yes, it is"

They turned a corner and Ruby's face met a set of large, squishy boobies. The owner was Aki.

"Sorry!" Ruby blushed in a panic.

"Oh, it's alright," Aki smiled, "I get that a lot with my husband."

"Too much info..." Riza groaned.

"Are you girls lost?"

Ruby shook hear head, "Just walking around. This is a huge place."

"Neo Domino Hospital is the best we've got," Aki boasted, "There are several branches throughout the city for everyone's convenience, even in the Satellite."

"Oh, excuse me. I'm Ruby Toujou," the Witch introduced, "This is Riza Wildman."

"Hi," the redhead waved.

"Aki Fudo," the doctor returned, "Nice to meet you girls."

Ruby gasped, "You're Yuji's mother?"

Aki blinked, "You know Yuji?" She grinned, "So~, my baby's got himself four girlfriends, huh~?"

Ruby started trembling, pointing at Aki as she stammered, "Then you...you're...the...the..."

Riza cocked a brow, "What's wong with you?"

"The Black Rose..." she breathed before fainting.

"Ruby!" Riza gasped.

"Oh my! Help me get her to a bed, please!" Aki pleaded.

"OK!" Riza nodded. She grabs Ruby's arms and drag her along.


"I wonder where everyone could be..." Bianca mused.

"Hana and Michiru are taking care of Yuji in another room," Yusei told her.

Bianca shrugged, "Well, then I guess you're the only one I can tell for now. Yusei, you're mother was the daughter of Katsu Gouryuu, current boss of the Vongola mafia family in Italy."

Yusei's eyes widened at the news, "What...?"

"And your son, Yuji, has been chosen to become the 20th Boss to succeed your grandfather," she added.

"That means..."

Bianca nodded, "You have mafia blood running through your veins, yes."

Yusei sighed and scratched his head, "I need a drink..."

"You're not the only one," Washam agreed, "Your son becoming the boss of a mafia family? I almost can't believe it."

"She's got a family tree to prove it," Misato assured.

"We'll leave that for later," Bianca dismissed. She tosses Yusei a set of rings. They each stones in them, resembling the colors of the rainbow.

Yusei blinked, "Rings?"

"I want you to try and focus your resolve into each of those rings," she instructed.

He didn't understand, but decided to try. After several attempts, Yusei gasped as the ring with a blue stone flared with a shimmering blue flame.

"What is this?" Yusei gasped.

"So, you have the Rain!" Bianca mused, "That's interesting."

"Rain?"

"What you've just materialized was one of the seven Dying Will Flames of the Sky," she explained, "This explains why you weren't chosen to be the heir."

"That's right, you said people with Sky Flames were chosen to be Boss," Misato recalled.

"Excuse us," Aki called as she came in, with Riza dragging Ruby.

"Oh, there you two are," Bianca smiled.

"Yo," Riza grunted as she lifted Ruby onto a separate bed. "She needs to cut down on the snacks," Riza sighed.

"Who are you?" Aki asked as she spotted Misato.

"Misato Kurushina," she bowed, "It's nice to meet you, Mrs. Fudo."

"Then you're with Yuji too!" Aki beamed as she hugged the girl, making Misato yelp in surprise. "My boy has five girlfriends! Isn't this amazing?"

"I'm not his girlfriend!" Riza snapped.

Aki was all giggles before she stopped and saw Bianca, "Are you with my son too?"

"Actually, I'm more or less his tutor," the blonde corrected, "By the way, where is Yuji?"

"Getting some TLC from Hana-chan and Michiru-chan," Aki winked.


Yuji other contently, with Michiru and Hana held closely to his sides with his arms draped over their shoulders. He had finished pleasing the cyborg girls and made sure they were satisfied. Their session definitely helped to relieve Yuji of his own stress from the match with Washam. The three lay naked in the hospital bed as the girls slept close to him.

'I'll need to talk to Dad about that new armor,' Yuji thought to himself, 'But first, a well-deserved nap...'


"I have something for you," Washam smiled as he and Misato were in his office.

"What is it, Daddy?" she asked.

Washam revealed a rectangular case and opened it, with Misato gasping at what she saw. What was in the case were a pair of rapiers with silver guards and crimson-red blades.

"You've kept them..." she sniffled.

"The Bloody Tears," Washam identified, "I've held onto them since what happened."

Misato took the rapiers in both of her hands, making practice swings to get the feeling back. She stopped and cradled the swords in her arms, "It's been so long..." She ran into Washam in an embrace, shedding tears of joy, "Thanks, Daddy...!"

"Any time, Draculina," Carl returned.


"So, you met these girls after you made a new friend who turned out to be a killer cyborg with amnesia. Then these girls snuck into your room and tried to kill you but you used the charm you inherited from your father and gave them a new home," Aki summarized. She smiled and turned to her husband, "He really is your son, Yusei."

Yuji sat across from his parents and Washam, with the girls at his side. Ruby was carrying Blair while Michiru cradled Ma in her arms while the cabbit feasted on a carrot.

"I know, but he actually got five at once," Yusei nodded.

Yuji blushed before his parents, "Come on, you guys are making a bigger deal out of this than it actually is..."

"And I am not his girlfriend," Riza added.

"Yuji, even though you knew the risks and consequences you still took these girls in, showed them that they had a choice other than what they originally had," Aki smiled before she started sobbing, "I'm so proud of you…"

Yusei blinked at his wife, "Aki, are you crying?"

Aki then cried into her husband's shoulder, "Our boy's growing up!"

"Come on, Mom, I hate seeing you cry," he blushed harder.

"Excuse me...but are you the Black Rose Witch?" Ruby asked excitedly.

"My son told you? I haven't been called that in a really long time," Aki reminisced. "Still, to find out that my husband's related to the mafia and my son being the heir? That's a little hard to believe."

"That's what I said," Carl nodded.

"Believe it or not, this is what Katsu decided," Bianca said, "He'll be retiring soon, and he wants Yuji to take over. And that's why I'm here; to turn him into a presentable boss."

"Is there...a chance we'll be able to meet him?" Yusei asked.

"Who, Katsu? I can arrange it," Bianca smiled, "But it'll take some time, since he lives in Italy now. In the meantime, I think Yuji should show the girls around his hometown while I talk with the adults."

"You talk as if you're my mom," Yuji grumbled.

"I'm a lot older than you think," Bianca retorted.

"Whatever then. Come on, girls, we'll let Bianca have her way." he and the girls filed out of the room, leaving Bianca with the doctors.


Well, deciding to go on foot, Yuji showed his girlfriends around town to his favorite hangouts. Neo Domino did seem like a peaceful metropolis.

"And this is my favorite bookstore," said Yuji, his back facing the entrance. The girls looked up and their eyes widened.

Misato said, pointing, "Um...Yuji...you might wanna turn around."

Yuji did and he gawked. Over the entrance was a banner that read "BOOK SIGNING BY SHIORI BANABARA, TODAY ONLY". He pulled out a small book from his jacket, "It's a good thing I always carry a copy of one of her books for just such an occasion."

Riza pointed, "Well, you're gonna have to wait. There's a line."

Yuji answered, "So worth it."

"Well, while you're busy waiting we'll go in and just look around for anything interesting," Hana suggested.

The girls went in as Yuji stood in line, waiting eagerly for his turn. Inside, Ruby and Hana found a section on the occult, horror stories, and gothic poetry. Michiru found a book on flowers. Misato went to the restricted area and grinned while rubbing her hands together. As for Riza, she was never much of a book fan.

"10, 11 more people," Yuji counted.

"Oh, man, I wish they would hurry up...!"

Yuji turned back to see a girl behind him. She was about his height, with fiery-red hair done up and flaring out like a star and matching eyes. She wore bell-bottom jeans and a black t-shirt (with a flame print) that exposed her midriff. She jumping excitedly and nervous.

"Nervous?" he asked.

"That and I got someplace I need to be," the redhead whined, "I'm gonna be late for the nationals!"

He blinked, "You're in the nationals?"

She shot him a thumb's up, "You bet, and I'm gonna win! Oh, and I'm Flannery; Flannery Moore," she introduced.

"Yuji," he introduced as they shook hands. "You know, you seem kind of young for this kind of thing."

Flannery pouted, "For your information, I'm 19!"

"Wow, didn't look like it since you're cute," Yuji blinked.

She struck a pose, "Well its nice to know that some boys recognize beauty when they see it! And you're pretty hot yourself."

"I'm sure you're boyfriend wouldn't appreciate a comment like that," Yuji joked.

She scoffed, "Sorry but a girl like me doesn't have time for boys when I've got a future dueling career to think about. If I win the nationals, I can go pro!"

"Good luck with that then," he encouraged, "I bet the pro circuit needs a sassy lady like you."

"Oh, stop!" Flannery blushed.

Before they knew it, Yuji was next in line as he shot Shiori a smile, "Long time no see!"

Shiori beamed, "Yuji, it's been awhile! I didn't know you'd be here."

Yuji answered, "Neither did I. Small world." He put his book in front of her. "So, has Shinichi been calling you?"

Shiori signed the book and answered, "Yes, and he's been telling me he's having a great time with his friends. Though, I have a feeling he's hiding something."

Yuji remarked, "Maybe he doesn't want to worry you. Anyway, I better go. I don't want to hold up the line."

Shiori offered, "How about we get together for dinner later?"

"Sounds lie a plan'" he agreed.

"Wait, you know Ms. Banabara?" Flannery gaped.

Yuji remarked, "We kinda met before and her son's one of my best friends."

Flannery was skeptical, "You and her son, friends? How did that happen?"

Yuji answered, "Long story. But the short version is that I hooked him up with a sweet ride and we've been friends since I taught him how to ride it."

"Aw, you're so lucky," she whined. "Weel, if you can, you think you can check out the nationals? I'm waiting for a friend there and I want you to meet him. He's a cool guy!"

"I don't see why not," Yuji accepted.

"Awesome," she fist-pumped before crying out in shock, "THE NATIONALS! I GOTTA GO, BYE!" And the redhead blazed out of the bookstore as everyone watched dumbfoundedly.

Misato asked, "Made a new friend? She looks nice. Probably has tasty blood too."

Yuji said, "Now, Misa-chan. There's no need for you to go and drink other people's blood. You got mine."

"And it's good, but I like a little variety. So, did you get to talk with Shinichi's mom?"

"She invited us for dinner."

They then saw Ruby and Hana walking over carrying books.

Ruby beamed, "I had to purchase these."

"Me too," Hana added excitedly, "These poems are amazing."

Yuji looked around, "Where's Michiru?"

Michiru was being accosted by a couple of guys.

"You know, never thought to see a sweet chick like you."

"Wanna hang out?"

Michiru refused, "I'm taken."

Yuji came up to Michiru and slung his arm over her shoulders. He asked, "Are these guys bothering you?"

The two guys, with dignity, turned away and walked off.

"Thanks," she smiled.

Yuji smiled back, "No problem."

Mia poked her head out of Michiru's backpack.

Yuji asked, "You still brought her in? The store doesn't allow pets."

Michiru answered, "I couldn't leave her outside."

Yuji sighed, "Right...anyway, we got dinner plans with Shiori-sensei. But first, there's another stop."

"Ooh, can't wait!" Michiru clapped excitedly.

"Where are we going?" Hana asked.

"The Memory Circuit," he answered.


The crowd roared as duels went by one after another in the center arena of the Memory Circuit. Yuji had gotten everyone good seats as they were front row to watch the action of the dueling tournament.

With the invention of AR Vision and D-Gazers, both developed by Yusei, players and the audience were able to watch the duels in an augmented reality setting, not relying heavily on Momentum for Solid Vision.

"Riding Duel, huh? Who's playing?" Misato asked.

"No, it's just a regular ground duel for tournament players. If it were a Riding Duel then I would've known about its, and my uncles would be here since they're in the Pro Circuit for Riding Duels," Yuji explained.

"EVERYBODY LISTEN," the MC called, "I WANNA WELCOME YOU ALL TO ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL DAY IN NEO DOMINO CITY!" The crowd cheered before he continued. "WE'VE HAD AN AMAZING GROUP OF PLAYERS THIS TIME, AND FOR THE FINALE WE HAVE YESTERDAY'S FINALISTS GOING HEAD TO HEAD!" He waved to one side, "IN THIS CORNER, WE'VE GOT THE SASSY, THE FIERY, THE TAKE-NOTHING ATTITUDE OF THE LAVA QUEEN OF THE DUEL MONSTERS NETWORK! GIVE IT UP FOR...FLANNERY MOORE!"

The crowd cheered as smoke bellowed from one side of the arena as the platform rose and revealed Flannery waving and blowing kisses to the crowd.

Yuji gawked, "SHE'S LAVA QUEEN?"

Misato looked at him, "You didn't know?"

"We never exchanged pictures," he sighed.

"It's starting!" Michiru beamed.

Several turns passed and both players' points were low as the heated duel continued.

"I'll draw," Flannery called before beaming, "Alright, I summon Flamvell Firedog in attack mode!" A fireball ignited in frothou her and a Great Dane, covered in magma-like armor, howled. "OK, time for battle, attack Lyla, the Lightlord Sorceress!" the Firedog howled as it lunged for the spellcaster and bit down, causing her to cry out as she was incinerated and faded in ashes. "Thanks to that, I can now special summon a FIRE monster with 200 defense points and I choose Tender of the Laval Volcano!" A dark-skinned girl, with the same fiery hair as Flannery's was summoned. "And I'm about to rap this up!" What was left on her opponent's field was a defensive Lumina, giving her the perfect chance. "I activate Urgent Tuning! Since I'm still in my Battle Phase, I'll tune my Firedog and Tender to Synchro Summon Laval Twin Slayer!" The two monsters initiated the tuning process and out of the light emerged. "Amd since I've got more than 3 "Laval" monsters, I'm sure you realize that I can use both of his effects," Flannery winked, "Battle!"

Laval Twin Slayer grunted as he dashed forward, cutting away at Lumina and slashing the opponent.

Flannery Moore: 1000

Opponent: 0

"IT'S OVER!" the MC cried, "LETS'S GIVE A BIG HAND FOR OUR PLAYERS AND THIS TOURNAMENT'S BIG WINNER, FLANNERY MOORE!"

Everyone cheered as Flannery and her opponent shook hands and Flannery waving to the crowd in sheer delight.

"She was amazing," Ruby smiled.

"That's the Lava Queen for you," Yuji admired.

"Sounds like someone's looking for more pussy," Misato teased.

"I never said that," he denied.

"Sure you didn't," she shrugged condescendingly.

The MC then received a message and spoke out, "EVERYBODY, I'VE JUST RECEIVED WORD THAT A SPECIAL GUEST IS IN THE AUDIENCE! HE'S A YOUNG GRADUATE FROM DUEL ACADEMY, A RESPECTED MEMBER OF THE DUEL MONSTERS NETWORK, AND THE SON OF THE SHOOTING STAR OF SATELLITE! EVERYBODY, GIVE IT UP FOR... THE FLAME KING, YUUUUJI FUDO!

The crowd cheers as Yuji's hit by spot lights and his face is on the main monitor, gaping and blushing with sheer embarrassment. Michiru was waving at the camera.

"You have got to be kidding me!" Flannery gawked.

"AS A SPECIAL TREAT, WE'LL HAVE THE FLAME KING PRESENT THE LAVA QUEEN WITH HER TROPHY," the MC announced.

Giving to the cheers, Yuji proceeded to the center arena and present Flannery with her trophy and shook hands. "Great game, Flannery," Yuji smiled, "Just what I'd expect from the Queen of the Network."

"I'm just glad I finally got to meet you, King," Flannery blushed.

"It's Yuji," he corrected.

"Right, sorry."


"I can't believe we ended up taking so many pictures," Flannery sighed as she walked with Yuji and the girls. She managed to score a few pictures of her and Yuji together for herself.

"Sorry for getting you into that mess," Yuji apologized.

"Hey, no te preocupes," Flannery dismissed in Spanish, "I'm so psyched that I got to meet my idol without even knowing it." Her stomach growled and she groaned, "So hungry..."

"Hey, you can have dinner with us," Michiru invited.

"Yeah, you mean it?"

"I don't really mind," Hana approved.

"The more company, the better the food," Riza grinned.

"Oh, muchas gracias," Flannery thanked.


It was the early evening, about 6 P.M. as everyone was present and accounted for. Misato had invited her adopted father and Yusei and Aki had attended. They were all seated together in a Chinese restaurant at one of the family tables. Hana and Misato had flanked Yuji's sides this time as Michiru was next to Hana and Ruby next to Misato. Riza was next to Flannery and the girls looked mighty hungry as they were next to Yuji's parents and Carl sitting next to Shiori.

However, Yuji had called Shiori to the hall.

"What's wrong, Yuji-kun?" she asked.

Yuji said to her, "OK, Shiori-sensei, you might want to sit down for this. What I'm about to tell you might shock you."

"I think I had all the shock purged out of me after I found Shinji," said Shiori. "But OK, I'll sit down." She sat down and Yuji took in a deep breath to organize his thoughts.

"OK, to make a long story short, you're my aunt," he said. He waited for a reaction.

"Riiiiight..." she replied sarcastically. "OK, am I being punk'd?"

Yuji pinched the bridge of his nose, thinking, 'This is going to be harder than I thought.' He explained, "Shiori-sensei, I'm not playing a prank. I am your nephew because my dad and you are brother and sister. Twins in fact."

"Pull the other one why don't you?" she retorted.

"You believe your son is a cyborg and goes to a school for monsters and you can't believe this?" he asked.

"There's a difference. He had evidence," said Shiori.

"Maybe I can assist you," said Bianca as she appeared out of nowhere.

Shiori asked, "Where did you come from?"


Shiori suddenly woke up from her lying down position on the floor. "What happened?"

"You passed out from shock," Bianca answered bluntly.

"Oh...right...you showed me proof..." Shiori was feeling dizzy. Yuji offered her his hand and she took it before he pulled her up to her feet.

"Now's not the time for you to pass out again, Aunt Shiori," Yuji said.

Shiori suddenly let out, "AHA! I knew it! I knew I was adopted! That's why I could never fit in with my so-called family!"

"Yeah, pretty much," Yuji nodded, "I still had trouble grasping it, but to think I'm related to you; it just seemed way too awesome to be true."

Shiori beamed, "Wait until Shinichi hears about this! He'll be so pleased to know that you're his cousin!"

Yuji replied, "Actually, there's more. We're not just cousins. We're actually descended from the Vongola Mafia family."

Shiori froze, "...What?"

Yuji repeated, "The Vongola Mafia family...Oh, no. She passed out again. I'm gonna hate myself for this..." he crouched down, close to Shiori's ear and whispered, "Naked apron..."

Shiori jumped awake, "WHERE!-?"

"Sorry, it was all I could think of to wake you," Yuji apologized.

Shiori cursed, "Damn it! So, you were saying something about the mafia...?"

"You, Shin, Dad, me and my sister are the grand kids of Vongola's current boss," Yuji summarized. "I don't know much about him, but from what Bianca told he's pretty strong."

Shiori nodded, "So, how come I ended up with the Mitsuhides?"

"Bianca told me Grand-Dad wasn't able to care for you at the time your mom died, so he had to leave you with someone he thought he could trust," Yuji answered, "I don't think that was the best idea he's had. But I don't think you should be mad at him for it...!"

Shiori shrugged, "Well, can't change the past now. So, how are you going to break the news to your cousin and sister?"

Yuji frowned, "Shin might freak out, but Yuki wouldn't mind. Not much phases her when it doesn't concern me...which technically does concern me so I'm not sure how she'd react." he shook his head, "This is gonna be tough. Anyway, would you like to officially meet your brother?"

Shiori smiled, "Yes, yes I would. It'll be good to be reunited with my blood family."

Yuji advised, "Just don't tell Shinichi. I'd rather break the news to him myself."

Shiori saluted, "Yes, sir!"


Yuji returned to the table, seeing that everyone was enjoying their meal.

Misato whispered, "So, how did she take the news?"

"She passed out, twice," Yuji whispered back. He then turned to his parents, "Dad, could you come with me for a minute? I think you should come too, Mom."

Yusei and Aki looked at each other before leaving the table and following their son until they met with Shiori in the hall.

"So, what's going on?" Yusei asked.

"Is everything alright, Yuji?" Aki asked worriedly.

"Kind of," he replied, "Mom, look at Dad and Shiori. Do you notice anything?"

Aki scanned the two as they stood side by side, blinking, "Hey, you both have the exact same eye color."

"Well, there's a reason for that," Yuji nodded. "Dad, I want you to meet your sister, Shiori Banabara; or if you wanna get technical, Shiori Fudo."

Aki gasped, covering her mouth with her hands, "Oh my...!"

Yusei's eyes widened slightly as he took in this new revelation. Despite fighting gods and cyborgs, this took the cake. He looked to Shiori, gazing into her eyes as she did the same. He couldn't explain it, but he felt a sense of pure honesty from Shiori's eyes.

"Shiori..., I," Yusei tried to say.

Shiori asked, "Wow...so you're really my Nii-san, huh?"

Yusei replied, "Guess so..."

"So, how come I don't have super dragon powers?"

"Bianca told me your mother, Saya, gave up her power when she was younger, so she was human when she gave birth," Yuji explained, "Dammit, Bianca is never around when I need her for stuff like this...! Anyway, Mom and Dad are artificial Manakytes because of their marks they got directly from...well, God."

Aki and Yusei showed Shiori their Signer marks.

Shiori admired, "Nice tattoos. I actually have one...somewhere on me."

"I bet I can guess where," Yusei joked.

Shiori retorted, "I was making a statement. So, I think it's time we did this. Give me a hug, Nii-san!"

Yusei accepted and pulled Shiori into a hug as Aki and Yuji watched.

"Now this went a lot better than the first revelation," Yuji sighed in relief.

Shiori apologized, "Sorry. I react like that due to unexpected news. I mean I passed out when my late husband proposed to me."

"Well, we should get back to eating before Flannery and Riza decide to eat everything," Yuji warned as they returned to the table. Yuji smiled and whispered to Hana and Misato, "This time went better!"

Hana agreed, "Definitely."

Misato added, "Next, to break the news to Shinichi."

"So, what do you do, Ms. Banabara?" Carl asked.

Shiori answered, "Oh, I'm a novelist and I write adult literature."

"I see. I didn't get out much after college, so some would say I'm behind the times."

"Dad usually keeps himself indoors for work and only comes out to play sports," Misato remarked.

"And I always make time for you," Carl added.

Shiori offered, "Well, maybe I could lend you one of my books, Washam-san."

"I don't see why not," he accepted.

Aki whispered to Yusei, "Is it me, or are those two flirting?"

"Probably." Yusei nodded, "Let them have their fun."

Shiori had been out of the dating game for awhile now. Even if she'd only been a widow for half a decade, she'd focused only on her work. Now that her son was back she could actually go out and find a man to love, and Carl Washam was definitely an ideal physical specimen.

'Check out those arms,' she thought.

"Ano...Shiori-sensei...you're drooling," Michiru pointed out.

"I am?" She took the napkin and wiped her mouth. "Sorry, sorry."

Yuji noticed this and whispered to Misato, "Are you seeing what I'm seeing?"

Misato grimaced, "Yes...now I know where he gets it from."


"SO FULL~~!" Riza cried with a drawn out stretch.

"Oh, man, I totally feel you," Flannery agreed as she too was stretching, "I haven't eaten that much in ages!"

Hana said, "It was a good meal, I guess."

Michiru teased, "Oh, just admit it was delicious, Hana-chan!"

"What should we do next?" Ruby asked.

"It's pretty late, so why don't you spend the night at our home, Shiori-san?" Aki offered.

"Actually, I would like to see what Washam-san's home is like," Shiori grinned.

Washam averted his eyes, blushing, "Uh...maybe later."

Misato rolled her eyes.

Suddenly, canisters rolled toward the group as gas exploded from them, surrounding civilians panicked and ran for cover in the confusion.

"What the hell...?" Riza coughed.

"Tear gas..." Hana coughed as she tried to cover up.

Aki waved her hand and blew away the tear gas a pulse of psychic energy, only for the group to be surrounded by two dozen individuals, dressed in black armor and white skeletal patterns and wearing white skull-like helmets. They were armed with G-36C assault rifles.

Yuji recognised their belts instantly, "GS grunts!"

Misato corrected him, "No, they're not like the standard grunts! These are the Elite Guardsmen!"

"Surrender, you're surrounded!" one of the Elite order.

"And you're outmatched," Yusei muttered as he blurred out of sight. Suddenly, three Elites dropped to the floor with a single bullet hole in their helmets, with Yusei outside the circle.

"WHAT?"

"Aki, Waham, look after the girls," Yusei ordered.

"Shiori, Flannery, stay with me," Aki instructed as Carl took a defensive stance in front of Aki while she protected the women.

"Alright, a fight!" Riza barked as she stransformed her arms and started swatting at the GS Elites.

"HENSHIN!" the ex-NUMBER girls cried out, assuming their armored forms. They sprinted in three different directions, weapons at the ready. Even if these were the stronger GS Elite Guardsmen, they were still just grunts in the end.

Seras captured two Elites with her tendrils, pulling them toward her as she started thrusting with her Bloody Tears and turning the GS Elites into bloody pincushions.

Arachnea dodged gunfire and webbed up three Elites, swinging them around and slamming them into a wall. She then flashed kunai and flicked them, ensuring instant kills via head shots.

Carmen was jumping around, dodging bullets as pedal-shaped shards of energy fired from her shoulder pads and rained down on the GS Elites and cut them down. She then swung her scythe arms down on them, decapitating her enemies.

"Qué mierda está pasando!-?" Flannery cried out with fright. She then screamed when she saw a GS Elite ready to fire, before screaming and bursting into flames. She blinked and looked up to Aki was covered in whisps of flames.

"I'll protect you, Flannery-chan," Aki declared.

Washam threw a couple jabs, a right hook and then a left uppercut that was strong enough to break a GS Elite's neck as he was launched up into a street light as he was electrocuted for good measure.

"Way to go, Washam-san!" Shiori clapped. Carl turned and gave a thumb's up.

"Karyuu no...Tekken!" Yuji shouted. He lunged for a GS Elite when the flames of his fists suddenly fizzled out. "What the...!-?" He was then fed a knee strike to the face as he land on his back before he was looking up the barrel of a rifle.

"Die," the GS Elite said he was about to pull the trigger before he was pierced by multiple vines and tossed aside.

"Yuji!" Ruby called as she rushed to his side. "Are you alright?"

"Yeah... I'm fine," he muttered.

"This is getting annoying," Yusei frowned. He pulled a S&W 500 from his jacket and...

BANG! BANG-BANG-BANG! BANG-BANG-BANG-BANG-BANG!

All the GS Elites froze, with Yusei standing silently with his gun hand stretched out, before they all dropped like sacks of potatoes.

A GS Elite Guard whacked Seras upside the head, the stick stunning her as she was knocked to the ground. He reached down to grab her when a fist met his face, cracking his helmet and sending him flying, crashing into a wall.

"Don't you dare touch my daughter!" Washam shouted.

Yusei looked around, nodding, "Alright, that's all of them."

Flannery was staring at the armored girls, "What...what are you?"

"We're armored super girls," Carmen beamed.

Seras agreed, "Yeah, what she said. Were you freaked out, Lava Queen?"

"Well, maybe a little," she sighed.

"We should get home quickly," Aki advised, "We're vulnerably if we're attacked again. Shiori, as a member of the family, I'd like to invite you to our home."

Shiori accepted, "OK, but can Washam-san come too? I feel safer with him."

Misato mumbled, "She makes it so obvious..."

"Then let's roll," Yuji muttered as he stared at his hand.


The group was taken to a mansion that was separated from the mainland on its own, small island and connected by bridge. The Lancelot and Yusei's own car, with Washam, Shiori and Flannery as passengers, crossed the bridge as they drove up to the font gates that opened up remotely, thanks to Yusei.

This mansion once belonged to Rex Godwin, who had been a Dark Signer 20 years ago and was trying to become the ultimate god, using the combined power of the Earthbound Gods and the Crimson Dragon. However, the god had chosen Yusei instead, resulting in Godwin's defeat and death.

The island also contains a garden, some woodland, several courtyards and small lakes.

"You can hang out here for now," Yuji welcomed, "I gotta talk to Dad and Washam."

He and the girls were in Yuji's room, which was very spacious and had a stereo, game station, HD TV, a computer desk station in one corner and even his own bathroom. In another corner of the room was a piano, saxophone and electric guitar. He even a large waterbed.

"Woohoo!" Michiru beamed as she jumped, landing on Yuji's bed as she undulated. "Water bed~!"

Mia and Blair cheered as they landed on the bed as well, bouncing due to their light weight.

"So, you have a waterbed, huh?" Misato smirked.

"It was part of my therapy when I was a kid," he explained, "Used to have nightmares on that thing, but I'm good now. Anyway, I'll be back later." And with a wave, Yuji was gone.

"He's even got a mini-fridge!" Riza gaped as she saw how stocked up it was.

"I had no clue that the Flame King had such an awesome pad!" Flannery gushed.

"Indeed, Yuji has such a lovely room," Ruby agreed. She then noticed something off the corner of her eye. Turning, she saw photos on a dresser; some of Yuji, some of his parents, Yuki, but there was one photo that caught her attention above the rest. Picking it up, she saw Yuji and Yuki together, probably in their early teens, but they were with another boy. "How...is this possible?"

"What is it?" Hana asked as she and Misato flanked Ruby.

Flannery, Riza and Michiru also joined as they all saw what was in Ruby's hands. It was a photo of Yuji and Yuki, but with another boy that looked exactly like Yuji, but with red eyes and white hair with black streaks. He had Yuji in a headlock and Yuji was crying while Yuki watched.

"Who's that? He looks like Yuji's freaky nega-twin," remarked Misato as she stared. Their hair and eye colors were completely opposite and Yuji's white-haired double clearly looked a bit more malicious than than the guy they knew.

Riza then recalled something Yuji had told her, "Wait...I remember that Yuji mentioned his brother! This must be him!"

Michiru frowned, "He never told us he had a twin brother."

"He must've had his reasons for not telling us," Hana reasoned.

"He looks like a nut," Flannery recoiled.

"Just looking at a photo of this boy makes me feel uneasy," Ruby shivered.

Michiru defended, "But he's Yu-kun's brother and they look so close. He can't be all bad."

Misato reminded, "Remember #13? We were close to him and he didn't hesitate to take us out. Can't judge things by how they look, Michiru, remember that."

"Speaking of which, didn't your father and Shinichi's mother seem to be getting along?" questioned Hana.

"Let's just focus on the picture, OK?" Misato retorted. "Where do you think this guy is hiding?"

"Fudo told me this guy went missing, but that was it," Riza informed.

Hana responded, "Missing can either mean dead or alive, but if he's anything like Yuji he could still be out there."

"He helped us find our families! We should help him do the same!" suggested Michiru eagerly.


"So, Torrent, huh?" Yuji stated. He and Washam were in Yusei's personal laboratory, where the Liger System was born.

"So, you found out about it," Yusei realized.

"You developed it secretly, didn't you?"

"That's right. I know how you have a problem with water, so I wanted to develop a system that allows you to fight where you're most uncomfortable. The belt needed to be introduced to a new environment in order to activate," Yusei explained. "I'm sorry for keeping this secret from you, Yuji, but I wanted to make it a surprise."

"And I appreciate it, Dad," Yuji smiled, "It really came in handy."

"Did it help against your phobia, at least?" Yusei asked his son hopefully.

"I still hate the water, but at least I don't have to worry about drowning when I use it," he grinned.

Washam asked, "Tell me, Yuji, did you even realize what you were getting yourself into when you took the girls in? Making yourself an enemy of GIN-SHOCKER on purpose is not exactly what I'd call smart."

Yuji told Washam, "It was the right thing to do. The girls needed to know there was someone who cared for them. I know they were trying to kill me and they might've but I'm not that easy to kill."

"Indeed," Washam agreed, "Because I know those girls and they've never failed an assassination mission in their life. You're their first failure."

"I think me being alive was a huge success."

"So, since you're here, Yuji, I wanted to talk to you about some...improvements," Yusei informed. Guiding Yuji and Washam to his computer, Yusei showed the men something special.

"Oh, this is gonna be good," Yuji grinned, "You've been busy, Dad."

Yusei said, "Well, with so much happening I needed to do something. Washam was really informative about GIN-SHOCKER."

"It's how I got hired," said Washam. "My expertise and my knowledge. Being smart also kept me alive." He pounded his fist into his palm, "And I've dealt with all the assassins coming after me."

"So, feel like helping with this, Yuji?" Yusei asked.

"Let's get to work," he grinned.


"It's nice to know that Yusei had family all along," Aki smiled. She and Shiori were at the dining room table, having tea. Shiori, of course, had hers with milk with and honey.

Shiori smiled, "Yeah, and I finally found my real family too. I mean I was happy to find my son but this is just...wow."

"Find your son?" Aki asked.

Shiori sighed and explained, "A decade ago he went missing and I blamed myself for what happened. I had my husband supporting me and we worked our asses off looking for him. Five years later I became a widow but I still held onto the hope that my son was alive, even when people told me otherwise. It all paid off and I've found him."

"Must've been a tearful reunion," Aki remarked.

"Very much," Shiori sighed. "He grew up too fast without me. Those horrible monsters did things to him and made him into a cyborg. He must've been so terrified. I should've been there for him."

"So, you still love your son even if he's changed," Aki said.

"No matter how much he's changed, he's no monster. He's my son, my Shinji. Now I'm alone again since he's in a boarding school," she sighed. "I'm just glad he has friends."

"Yes, friends are important," said Aki. She remembered growing up without friends but then Yusei had reached out to her. She'd spat at his offer of friendship but she soon realized how sincere he was. She soon fell in love with him.

"So, what's my brother like, Aki-san?" Shiori asked.

"Well, Yusei's a serious guy. He's smart, kind, can be scary when he gets angry (which is rare now), and he cares about family and friends above everything else," Aki listed. "Also..."

Shiori leaned in eagerly, grinning, "Also...is he a stallion in bed?"

Aki blushed deeply, holding her cheeks, "Oh, like you wouldn't believe! He always knows how to throttle my engine!"

Shiori said, "Lucky you! It's been awhile since I've had a man. Only had mechanical help to scratch my itch."

"If you're lucky, you might get your hands on Washam," Aki suggested with a wink. "He doesn't get out much and from what I can tell, he's single."

Shiori smirked, "Oh, when I see something I like I never give up. I might be in my forties but I still got it and know how to flaunt it."

"Waham won't know what hit him," Aki giggled. She then leaned in and whispered, "But if that doesn't work, I'm sure your precious Nii-san can help satisfy you for a while.."

Shiori blushed, "That's incest!" And then she drools. "Heh heh...incest...that'll be something..."

"Yuki probably got that from you," the redhead giggled.

Shiori shrugged, "I think my son still took after me despite my absence in his life. I'm just glad we can all be together like this. I should introduce Shinji to you all when he's on his school break."

"Speaking of, Yuji really looks up to you," Aki mentioned, "He has all of your books and calls you his 'Literary Goddes'."

Shiori smiled proudly, "Well, I'm always writing to please my fans. Never did think anyone would be a fan of my work. Sure, sex sells but still never could believe I could become so successful. Shotaro believed in me, Kami bless his soul."

Aki smiled as she saw the clock, "We sure did talk the night away. You can borrow Yuki's room tonight."

"Thank you, Aki-san. Hey, can I ask you something?"

"Ask away."

"How do you handle the fact that your son's a Kamen Rider and the responsibility he now has of being one?"

Aki smiled, "What he's doing now pretty much mirrors what we were doing when we were kids. The best thing for me to do is to support him in anyway I can."

Shiori sighed, "I try to be supportive, but I can't help but worry about how he has to risk his life. I'd rather he stay with me and leave GIN-SHOCKER to others but I know he can't. After what they did to our family he wants justice."

"Trust me, I feel the same way," Aki assured. "Good night then, Shiori."

Shiori returned, "Oyasumi nasai~ Let's compare notes on sex later on, OK?"

Aki got in close again and played with Shiori's hair, "We could even have some fun ourselves, if you want~"

"Ooh, I can't wait..." she giggled.


Back in GIN-SHOCKER Headquarters, Nagazawa had decided that he'd seen enough. If the Elite Guardsmen couldn't capture those treacherous cyborgs, then it was up to him.

"If you want something done right, do it yourself," he muttered in irritation. Still, he was a smart man and he knew that going up against them without reinforcements would be fatal. He might be proud of his own strength but even he wasn't arrogant enough to think he was invincible.

"Maybe it's time for the Jäger Unit to meet their sempai," he smirked before pressing the button on the intercom to summon them, "#15, #16, #17, now's your chance to truly prove yourself to the organization."

The designated numbers were at Nagazawa's side, hidden in the darkness and ready to move out.

"You got it, Boss," #17 obeyed, having a female voice.

"Time to say hello," #16, a male, sneered.

"..." #15 gave no reply, but was obedient.

"Good," Nagazawa acknowleged. It was time to take matters into his own hands.

To Be Continued...


KAMEN RIDER BUSHIDO: Thus ends the first par of the Homecoming Arc. The girls meet Yuji's parents and some new faces appear. Misato is reunited with Washam and possibilities for upgrades to Liger are discussed. Brother and sister are reunited at last and Shiori develops an interest in Washam. Also, Yuji's powers dont deem to be working. What could this mean? Meanwhile, Nagazawa prepares to head out! Ok, so Flannery is from Pokémon. I'm sure you know. So I hope you guys like this one.