A/N: Hello and welcome back to The Life Channel! I hope everyone is staying safe and sound. The next couple of chapters are going to be a challenge for me because I still need to improve in description and consistency. Though, I really need to progress to advance in all my projects I have planned for TLC. Expect a lot of action in the upcoming weeks. Hope you enjoy!
Note: Italics and underline is the conversation in mind between Kevin and Luna. Italics by themselves are the character's thoughts.
Chapter 12 Friendship Showdown
"Friends are there through thick and thin. Facing challenges and obstacles together. But when it becomes something deep, who is a 'Friend' then?"
No One's POV
"We won…" Luna, Kevin, Dex, Tanner, and Yanagi are sitting in the stands once again, and Yusei is standing on the stairs. Luna is satisfied with their win. If it wasn't for Kevin's Princess Eclipse card, they would have been eliminated. Low key, she wanted to be in the tournament since she had received the invitation, but she was scared. Now, she was still scared a tiny bit because of all the promises she had made for another world; The Spirit World to be exact. She glances at Kevin who is talking to Dexter.
But now, he's here. She smiles but then remembers The Professor.
"I have finally left my body behind. I have entered The Spirit World!"
"What do you want?"
"You two are much more important than you know. Now, be good. Use your power and reveal to me the secrets of this wonderful realm! Lend me your power!"
And what power was The Professor talking about? Could he have meant that mark on my arm? Luna wonders. She gently holds her right forearm with her left hand. Kevin notices her actions and responds.
Possibly, She hears his voice in her mind. Kevin takes her hand in his for comfort. But don't worry, we'll figure this out soon.
She smiles. I forgot you can hear me.
Yeah. Pretty convenient for sure, he agrees.
I worry about my brother, Kevin. You'll help me find him too, right?
Kevin nods. Of course.
"Ladies and gentlemen, listen up." The Announcer's head appears on the sphere. "The second round has been announced! Check out the competition brackets! Who knows what excitement awaits! Who will win? Who will lose? Five duelists, two rounds, and a champion! Who will it be! Things are gonna get crrrrazy! See ya tomorrow!" The two matches up on the surrounding holo-screen appear; Yusei vs Kevin/Luna, Akiza vs Greiger.
"Whatt? Yusei versus Kevin and Luna?" Dexter points out.
Tanner turns to Yusei. "You're going to be turbo dueling?"
Yusei looks at Kevin and Luna and notices them holding hands again. They don't look bothered, but a bit confused.
"Are we really going to turbo duel?" Luna asks. "I mean, I don't even know how to turbo duel. Do you Kevin?"
He shakes his head. "Hmm, I don't think so."
Yusei looks up at the tower again. What are you planning now, Goodwin?
"Hey, Yusei. Can we please go see my brother?" Luna interrupts his thoughts.
"Yeah, let's go."
The gang finds Leo still in a coma. The nurse tending to him tells them that Leo will have to spend the night until they figure out why he still hasn't woken up yet. Tanner and Yanagi decide to take Dexter home while Yusei, Kevin, and Luna talk about what to do next. But right after Tanner, Yanagi, and Dexter leave, Lazar shows up. "Director Goodwin would like to see you both."
"What for?" Yusei carefully questions.
"Mr. Fudo. It would be best if only Kevin and Luna come. You may wait here," he tells him. Kevin and Luna look at Yusei who is on guard.
"It's okay. We'll just see what he wants," Luna says. Yusei nods, and the three of them leave.
"Director," Lazar calls him as they enter the room. Director Goodwin is sitting on the couch patiently waiting. He smiles as he sees Kevin and Luna.
"Congratulations on moving on to the next round," he begins.
"Thanks," Both Kevin and Luna say politely.
"Now, as you two have noticed. Your next duel is against Yusei and you will be facing off in a turbo duel."
"But I don't know how to turbo duel," Luna tells him.
"No, but he certainly does," Goodwin says referring to Kevin.
"I do?" He questions confused.
"Yes. I have done some digging, Kevin, and I have discovered that from where you are from, you are a turbo dueling prodigy; a legend."
Kevin raises his eyebrows. "Where am I from?" He asks desperately.
Goodwin smiles. "In due time, little runner. What I will tell you is this; You have a match tomorrow against Yusei Fudo. Luna's parents know your parents and currently, they are on the other side of the planet. Defeat Yusei and I will gladly call them here for you for some answers."
Kevin remembers. During those flashbacks when Luna found his "Speed Warrior" and then Luna getting lost; their parents communicated. They exchanged contact info so Luna and Kevin would be able to play more.
So all this time, you have been by my side. Luna tells Kevin through her mind. He nods.
This is an opportunity, Luna.
"Of course, Kevin, your girlfriend here will have to be your co-pilot in order for the best results," Lazar adds.
"By that, he means that we know the power you both possess. Yusei also does and I made sure you faced against him in order to bring out his power as well," Goodwin tells them.
"Wait, so he also has a mark like us?" Luna asks.
"In a similar way, yes," Lazar confirms cracking a smile.
"With that said, if you help us, Kevin we will certainly help you. Do we have a deal?" Goodwin offers his hand at him. He looks over at Luna.
To be honest, I don't trust him. She tells him. But, I want you to find your family.
It's your call then.
Yeah, I'll have your back, She says with a nod.
Kevin smiles at her. So, together?
Together.
"Wait, but I don't have a runner," Kevin says realizing.
"Don't worry about that," Lazar reassures them with a sneer. "We already have that covered."
Kevin accepts Goodwin's hand. "Alright then-" He then remembers Yusei's dilemma. "But I want you to stop will all the bullshit, Goodwin. Leave Yusei's friends alone."
Goodwin nods. "As you wish. Lazar."
He nods and leaves the room for a bit to talk to the guard outside. He then returns and nods at Goodwin. "Done."
"His friends will be okay. You have my word," Goodwin reassures them.
"This card should help you against Yusei, Heh heh heh heh!" Lazar offers.
Kevin accepts it curious. "It's blank."
"Yes, for now at least," Goodwin says, agreeing. "But it'll be very handy in a tough spot."
Kevin nods.
"Anything else?" Goodwin asks them.
Luna steps up. "Yes. Please, help my brother. Is he going to be okay?"
Goodwin nods. "Of course, but it all depends on you, Luna."
On their way back to Leo's room, Kevin asks Luna, "What did he mean 'it all depends on you'."
"I don't know…" She responds. Then she remembers," But Ancient Fairy Dragon said that he's lost between our world and The Spirit World."
"Then we will have to go back to find him," Kevin concludes as Jack Atlas, The King, approaches from the other end of the hallway.
They stop short. "Mister Atlas…" Kevin says in awe.
"You two are in my way," he plainly says.
"Pardon us, Jack," Luna apologizes.
"I meant that "you two" as a whole are in my way," he clarifies himself.
"Huh?" Kevin asks.
"Yusei will advance in this tournament, either way. Only I can defeat him. You two fighting him will be a waste of time."
"Jack…" Luna warns him as she suddenly feels overwhelming emotions of anger and frustration.
Who does he think he is… "Is that so," Kevin disagrees. "Well, when we get to you; a new King, and Queen, will take the throne."
Jack smirks. "Oh, well let's see if Goodwin was right about you two." Jack leaves and Kevin and Luna watch him go. They head back to Leo's room as Luna tries to comprehend those sudden emotions she then felt when Jack said that. It's for Kevin's past and future.
Later that night, Luna, Kevin, and Yusei are now home, They are sitting down to a rather fancy dinner at a little four-person tea party table.
"So, that does mean I will have to face you two in a turbo duel," Yusei confirms after Kevin and Luna have explained to him about the deal with Goodwin.
"Yup," Kevin agrees as he reaches for his deck belt.
"I don't trust him," Yusei adds. "He may say one thing, but of course, he might mean something entirely different."
"Yeah," Luna agrees, "but it may seem like our only option right now."
"Yusei," Kevin calls him. "Here." He offers back his "Junk Warrior" synchro card.
"Why are you giving this card back?" he asks confused.
"Because tomorrow, we face each other as enemies. We are friends, of course, but I want to win 'Junk Warrior' fair and square."
He smiles accepting it. "Very well."
At least we have Goodwin's word that Yusei's friends will be okay, Luna tells Kevin.
Yeah, I just hope he's able to keep his end of the deal, Kevin agrees.
"Well, I will give you two some space to plan and prepare," Yusei says standing up. "As you said Kevin, tomorrow we will face each other as rivals." Kevin and Luna smile, knowing the big challenge Yusei will be. "I'm going to catch up on some fresh air. I'll be back in a bit."
"Don't be too long," Luna says. "I already ordered dinner and it should be here in a bit."
Yusei nods and leaves. Sure enough, room service arrives with a few sandwiches and drinks. Kevin and Luna begin to munch down. They leave a few sandwiches for Yusei. After dinner, Kevin and Luna go prepare in Luna's room. They examine each other cards and talk about ways they can do combos together. About two hours later, they decide to call it a night. Just before Kevin leaves for the guest room, Luna hugs him and wishes him goodnight. Before bed though, Kevin decides on a quick shower for tomorrow's heated battle.
Location: A Clear White Void
White's clear concentration is interrupted by a soothing voice.
"You called me, White?"
She opens her white eyes to Blue's body. She smiles. "Indeed. I'm curious to know what are your plans now that Team 5ds matches are scrambled to the unknown."
"Yes. I know what you are thinking and trust me on this, White. Greiger's side battle wasn't as much as important. As you know, we need these duelists to show their true potential for the great battle that is upon us and the salvation of us," he explains.
She nods. "I trust you, Blue. I feel my husband's intentions upon our hero and in due time, his true colors will show. Please take care of him. As much as I can't intervene right now, it isn't right. I trust you to look upon him more carefully, now that you have intentionally twisted the events of these duelists."
He nods. "Of course. This next duel will expose those of powers and I will do as much as I can to keep him safe."
No one's POV
For an hour, Kevin lies wide awake in his bed. After Luna has finished her shower, and she dries up her hair, she decides to pay Kevin a visit before bed.
He then hears her voice in his head. Are you still awake Kevin?
Yeah, wide awake actually. What's up? She's quiet for a bit.
Can I come in? She asks hopefully.
Kevin raises his eyebrows, a bit unsure. "Yes?"
His room's door open and Luna enters. She can barely see in the darkness, but the moon's light gives just enough visibility for her to find Kevin's silhouette in bed. She closes the door and goes to his side.
"Hey," She whispers.
"Hello," he whispers back. "You okay?"
She nods. "Yeah." She then blushes and quickly spits out. "CanIsleepwithyou?"
"Excuse me?" He asks interested.
She sighs and shakes her head. "I was wondering if I can sleep next to you for tonight."
Of course, you can, but I mean why? He asks. She gets into bed with him and cuddles next to him. Princess Eclipse gave us this for nothing, you know.
Yeah, I know, but it's not the same… She tells him. And I don't want to be alone.
But you are not, anymore, He disagrees, putting his arm around her.
Yeah, now that you are here, She agrees. I hope you don't mind though.
Nope, I actually don't.
She smiles.
And do you? He asks, remembering all those times.
About?
The boyfriend and girlfriend thing?
Luna is quiet for a bit but then shakes her head. I feel like I could have said 'yes', but I actually love it.
Oh, do you?
Yup, so much.
Hm… So… Kevin tries to think about it, but Luna clarifies before he can say anything.
Yeah, that does mean you are my first boyfriend and I want that too.
Kevin smiles; smelling her scent of hair. Good.
They're quiet for a bit, just enjoying each other's company.
"A new King, and Queen," Luna breaks the silence. "I barely realized that."
"If we win against Yusei, we'll face against Akiza-"
"And you'll be able to get more memories of her," She adds, hopeful of that. She really wants Kevin to be happy.
"Yes… And after that, we will face off against Jack."
"And we will be the new King-"
"And Queen," Kevin concludes.
Kevin then remembers something else. Thank you, daddy…
"Daddy," he whispers. "Why would Princess Eclipse say that to me?"
Then, Luna realizes something. KIng… Queen… Spiritus… Daddy… "Oh my. It's a fairy tale!" She then turns to look at Kevin and sees him already looking at her a bit confused.
"What do you mean?"
"My dad would read me this fairytale about a girl who lived in The Spirit World. She was a princess who lived in harmony with different kinds of spirits. And she lived happily ever after with her parents. That family had a mark on their arms that symbolized their connection; their unity."
Something then clicks in Kevin's mind. "I've heard of that somewhere too…"
Then Luna does something so unexpected. She kisses Kevin on the cheek and both of their marks begin to glow. Kevin raises his eyebrows, surprised, and is blushing really red.
"Every night, The King and Queen would get into bed and The Queen would talk to her husband; about anything, everything," Luna explains also blushing. "To end off that, she would give him a kiss on the cheek because she loved him and for just listening to her rant about things."
"Just like I did."
She nods. "Yeah, and their marks would glow too as they both fell asleep in each other's arms," Luna concludes. She then looks away, embarrassed. "Sorry…" She whispers and cuddles into Kevin's chest.
"It's okay," he reassures her. "I loved it too."
She smiles happily, and they soon both fall asleep in each other's arms.
Kevin's POV
Her warmth has brought me comfort. Our relationship was an unexpected turn of events. If it wasn't for her, I wouldn't be here. That night, I dream of a future. Our fairytale of a future because we live in a huge castle. Our daughter is by our side; Princess Eclipse; the next heir for my thrown. I am King and Luna is my dear Queen.
I could stay like this forever…
"Welcome back to the semifinals of The Fortune Cup! Five duelist remain, and the winner will take on Jack Atlas in the Championship duel," The Announcer begins. Luna and I watch the holo screens as we finish up with our preparations in the garage area. "First off in our turbo-duel we've got Yusei Fudo squaring off against the Dream Team couple; Kevin and Luna! Start your engines!"
"I can't believe we're going to turbo duel together," Luna tells me as she puts on her safety gear. "I never imagined I'd learn in a time like this and especially with someone else."
I grin. "Yup. Together with your boyfriend."
She blushes. "You love saying that, don't you?"
I nod. She smiles and shakes her head. "Let's get going then, boyfriend." We head off to get our duel runner.
No one's POV
Yusei and his runner are dramatically launched into the arena in fine Kiabadome style.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, let's hear it for Yusei!" The Announcer exclaims.
Upon the sphere, a close-up of Yusei's face appears. There's a few boos in the crowd, but a lot of enthusiastic cheering too.
Meanwhile, somewhere backstage in the dark, waiting to enter the arena, sit Kevin on the front seat, and Luna, on the back seat of their new duel runner.
You ready, Luna? Kevin asks her.
Let's do this, Luna says ready with no fear, as she finishes up the last few check-ups on the runner.
The door opens and light from the stadium shines through. Kevin and Luna both rev it up and they shoot out a competitor entrance into the arena in a very cool-looking white duo-duel runner.
"Will ya look at that? It's the most incredible duel runner I've ever seen! It's an advanced prototype. One of the best hybrid models; best technology up-to-date. Ladies and gentlemen; it's Kevin and Luna with their spectacular duo-duel runner!" The Announcer exclaims.
Kevin and Luna land on the track and they catch up to Yusei almost immediately, who has been taking a warm-up lap.
"Nice duel runner, Kevin," Yusei compliments. "So you do know how to ride."
Kevin smiles. "Thanks and by the looks of it."
Up in the tower, Goodwin and Lezar are at the window and Jack's on the couch.
Kevin, you had better not jeopardize my chances of getting even with Yusei! Jack thinks.
Yusei, Kevin, and Luna slow and stop neatly in the starting blocks; Yusei in the first, and Kevin and Luna in the second.
"How are you feeling, Luna?" Yusei asks her.
"Pretty good actually. I'm ready!" She says with a smile.
Yusei nods, now alerted.
"And now- take out your 'Speed World' field spells- let's activate 'em!" The Announcer commands. Yusei and Luna activate them. The computer says, "Duel mode engaged; Autopilot standing by."
"Now, in this special duel; Kevin and Luna will be sharing life points. 4000 for both. Luna is Kevin's co-pilot and that means Teamwork is the key. Remember, only 'Speed Spells' can be used and the winner is the only one to advance."
"Countdown initiated," The computer announces. "Ready, set, duel." The two duel runners take off and Kevin takes the lead.
"We'll make the first move," he begins. "We draw." He does and places the card on his hand holder. Luna takes a look at their card. She already knows what Kevin will do. "We summon out Speed Warrior!" Kevin's ace appears with 900 attack points and 400 defense points. "We throw down two face-down cards and that's it for now."
Yusei draws and all duelists gain a speed counter.
Yusei: 1
Kevin/Luna: 1
"I set three facedown cards and end my turn," he says.
That's strange, Luna tells Kevin in her mind as he draws a card. Only face down cards. Does he want us to attack then?
Kevin/Luna: 2
Yusei: 2
Most likely, he agrees. What should we do?
Play it safe, she confidently says.
Kevin nods. "Very well." He grabs a monster from his hand and places it in a face-down defense position. He switches Speed Warrior to defense mode and ends.
"I activate my face down trap card; 'Gift offering'," Yusei says. "Because you control two monsters and I control none, I can steal one of your monsters until the end of your next turn." Speed Warrior takes off and goes to his side.
Mmmm, what is he planning, Kevin thinks. Yusei draws and he smiles.
Yusei: 3
Kevin/Luna: 3
"Now, I summon out Junk Synchron." The monster appears with 1300 attack and 500 defense points.
"He's going for a synchro summon!" Luna exclaims.
"I tune my level three Junk Synchron with your level two Speed Warrior- Gathering stars will call upon a new force! Become the path its light shines upon! Synchro Summon! Show yourself, 'Junk Warrior'!" Junk Synchron pulls on his lever and shines to form three green rings. They surround Speed Warrior which outlines it into yellow stars. A white light engulfs it and Junk Warrior takes flight with 2300 attack points and 1300 defense points.
"Yep. Of course," Kevin says.
"I'm sorry, Kevin, but I plan to use full force. I got to win in order to face off against Jack and I won't let anyone stop me."
A/N: Thanks for reading. Rate and review of any kind would be highly appreciated. Please let me know what I am doing wrong or right. Anything helps and until next time. Peace!