I had to throw something a bit more light hearted in because things are gonna get a bit darker in a bit, so yeah ;;
Yu-Gi-Oh! characters and everything related is (c) Kazuki Takahashi
The shake came again and she grunted before half heartedly swatting at the annoyance. It came again, now she could feel the pressure applied by the annoyance. A few more moments passed and she could determine the size of the object and identified it as a hand. Her eyes opened, the room was a big blur due to the fact her contacts weren't in. But the outline before her was unmistakable.
"I was beginning to think I would need backup. You swatted at me a few times," the teen teased.
"Did I miss?"
"Yeah."
"Damn," she grinned as she sat up.
"Funny," he replied. Sarah couldn't be sure but she thought she saw him stick his tongue out.
"Watch it or I'll take that from you," she mumbled as she stood.
"I thought you said you were blind, how did you see that?" he asked in utter confusion.
"Call it a feeling."
"I'm going to shower now. We've got about an hour and a half till the others arrive and we head out. That enough time? I should have asked last night..."
"Already showered, so it's enough," the woman nodded.
"Breakfast will be ready soon, Yugi," Mr. Mutou's voiced called from the kitchen. "I believe they were going to an amusement park, are you fond of them?"
"I love the roller coasters," the woman smiled as she got a glass of milk.
"Yugi's a bit short for most so I'd say you're going to spend the day with his other half so he isn't left out on some of the more popular rides."
"I was just wondering about that."
Time passed quickly and fairly quite, Mr. Mutou hummed to himself as he made breakfast and Sarah retuned to the bedroom to dress.
"Wait, she's dressing in there," Mr. Mutou warned as Yugi's small hand grasped the doorknob.
"Don't worry," the woman said as the door swung open. "I'm done. All yours," she stepped out to let the towel clad youth reclaim his room.
"Toast or not?" the elder asked.
"Mm, sounds good but I don't want to overdo it. The eggs and hash browns are just fine," she replied as she shoved her wallet into her pocket and straightened the chains. About then Yugi emerged from the bedroom dressed in simple jeans and t-shirt. The Puzzle he always had about his neck went nicely with the dark colors he had donned. "Most comfortable thing to wear, I say," the woman smiled.
After eating, Sarah finished getting ready by washing her face and brushing her teeth. While she had the toothbrush in her mouth still the others arrived. Always it seemed to be fascinating to watch others when they brushed. Eventually Sarah just closed the door, leaving Yugi and her alone in the bathroom. Jou was teasing she assumed, and it was getting laughs from everyone besides Anzu. The other girl giggled occasionally but was mainly quiet.
"What do you say to attacking Jou with toothbrushes before they're rinsed?" the woman asked as she spit. Yugi only gave a slight laugh before he did the same.
"I value my toothbrush," the teen laughed.
"Good point, toilet brush then?"
"NO!" Yugi giggled insanely. "We'd have to wait on him to change and then we wouldn't be in there at the opening."
"Ok, good reason." The woman opened the door again as she rinsed her mouth out and made sure to fling water from her hand at Jou and whoever else happened to be in the way. Ryou made a big show about getting sprinkled.
"Everyone ready?" Yami asked as he stepped out of the bathroom, it scared Sarah slightly.
"Warn me, please! You do that too much," she complained.
"Surprises keep you on your feet," the spirit tilted his head as he tried to make a serious face. But the glare he was getting from the taller woman made him crack a smile. He asked Honda and Jou if they were ready before the group departed. Mr. Mutou wished them all a good time and to be safe.
"We're taking the bus, it's always empty at this time on Sundays. Later is a different story," Anzu said.
Oooh, bus. Fun. I had bad memories of public transportation from college. My apartment was about two miles from the school. Had no car so I would have to catch a ride with someone else or use the bus. Well, a few times the bus wouldn't stop. Mainly when I was alone at the stop. I happened to go to school in a rich neighborhood and well, I didn't look rich. Guess they thought me to be a trouble maker and didn't want to stop. When I was with a group, things were fine. On my own they never stopped. I walked a few times, right next to a major street with traffic jams at all hours but 3am to 5am.
Jou cried out something as they boarded, Ryou said he had claimed the back and was currently making a mad dash towards it. Honda followed next then the rest. Only elderly persons were on at the moment, and in scattered seats. The group of teens with the lone woman were the loudest on the bus.
"So what's this place like?" Sarah asked as she leaned over the back of the seat she and Anzu shared, Anzu was already facing the back.
"Typical park. Not a theme park like America though, so prices are actually within reason," Ryou answered from across the aisle. As if he understood her question, Jou began to make hand movements akin to the course of a rollercoaster.
"He says he's going to take you on the biggest one just to see how loud you scream," Yami relayed.
"Tell him I don't scream," the woman beamed. Jou shook his head and said something.
"He bets you do," Anzu giggled.
"If he takes to poking me, I'll bite his fingers off or something."
Ryou translated and Jou protectively crammed his hands in his pockets, resulting in a laugh from the whole group.
"Honda wants to know what rides you won't go near so he can keep Jou from tricking you onto one," Ryou asked.
"Anything that spins, I hate that stuff with a passion. Get sick as I can be," the woman replied as a tire swing incident from kindergarten came to mind.
"You and me both," the light haired teen replied before he informed Honda of the woman's answer.
The ride was about forty-five minuets, if not for all the stops the bus made it might have been only half an hour. The gates of the park already had families lined up waiting to get in. Being that it was during the school season and on a weekend, the crowd was to be expected. It was also a tourist spot apparently, Sarah caught dozens of scattered English conversation. Anzu giggled and had Sarah look to one man holding a book.
"He's trying to ask the security guard if there is a reduced rate for children, only he asked if his son could buy the guard." Sarah laughed as well before Anzu stopped to answer the man's question. He felt highly embarrassed when the teen informed him of what he originally said.
"Oh! I should have left my chains back at Yugi's, I'll never get in with these, hope they have a security place I can check them at," Sarah mumbled as she went to remove her wallet and keys from it.
"Actually, you should get in fine. Trust me, I've seen persons with far worse wandering around in there before," Anzu assured her.
"We'll I'll wait then," the woman replied as she pocketed her wallet again.
"Hey you two, you going to stand around out there or would you like to join us inside?" Ryou called from where he and the other guys had just picked up admission tickets.
"Who paid? I owe em," Sarah said once she and Anzu had caught up.
"No, I took care of it, don't worry," Ryou shook his head. "And you too, Anzu. No need to repay me, you've paid for me before and always refused it when I'd offer to repay, so this will work."
"Well, thank you," Sarah smiled.
"See, you always find a way to repay me, even if I refuse," Anzu giggled.
"Just don't feel right without doing so," he shrugged.
Sarah was jerked forward by Jou, anxious to get into the park and get her on the largest coaster. "He's going to pull my arm off if he doesn't watch it," she scowled.
"Don't fight him, it'll go easier. He doesn't bite," Yami chuckled.
"No but I'm afraid he's going to try and get me on a spinning ride."
What do you know, Anzu was right. I got past the ticket check easily, no one asked me to remove the chains. I did slide them into my pocket though, just so they weren't dangling about. Jou still had me by the arm, we were acting as leaders for the group as he dragged us off somewhere. Anzu was right, the place looked about like a theme park, only no character art all over the place. There were plenty of game booths, prizes such as stuffed animals and other things you could win at such a place. I glanced at one shop I think it was, selling oddly decorated cowboy hats. I had a feeling we'd stop in there later, but I was going to avoid it if at all possible.
"Jou, where are we heading?" Honda asked the blonde teen.
"To a ride, duh," he replied.
"But it looks like you're heading off to that spinning thing. She won't be too happy you know," Honda reminded him.
"Yuug and the others won't let me, don't worry. And there are other rides in that area you know."
"Won't let you what?" Yami asked.
"Trick her into getting on a spinning ride. Besides, I just got her to be friendly. You think I'd do something stupid like that?"
"Yes," Honda snorted.
"Why thank you so much," Jou rolled his eyes.
I had fun with them, language wasn't a problem. Laughter, smiles and hand movements told all. We had a blast, running around from ride-to-ride and playing games here and there. As much as I would have loved to have kept the giant mouse thing I won, I wasn't home and had no place to put it. I ended up giving it to Anzu, but the day wasn't yet over so we ended up passing the huge thing between each other up until when we left.
We were worn out by then, a long day of laughing and playing tends to do that. But the day wasn't over yet, not by a long shot. Jou insisted we go to the game booth that had the wildly colored cowboy hats as prizes. Yami pretty much confirmed my thoughts when he said Jou was going to win one for me. I told him he didn't have to, but Jou's mind was set on it. At least he picked out a decent one, it was purple with leopard spots on it. Kinda reminded me more of a pimp hat, but I wore it anyway to humor him. Ryou thought it was the funniest thing in the world, until I decided to try my hand at the game and got a bright green one for him. Anzu said Yami would look hysterical in one, if we could get it to sit over his hair at least. Well that wouldn't work so we instead got Honda to wear the hot pink thing, but we did find a place that had these outrageously huge suit of armor helmets made of foam. That worked, I had never seen Yami look so disgusted when we managed to talk him into wandering around in it. I wish I had a camera... Jou and Anzu were all that was left without some silly form of head gear. Anzu was currently hauling the stuffed animal around so that worked. Jou however, well we got him to strut around with a feathered Indian like head dress proclaiming he was a turkey. He continued with the turkey act even after we got back on the bus. This time it was almost full which really made for a good laugh.
Honda got in on the fun then, he proclaimed himself a pimp and that Ryou and I were his 'associates.' Ryou was mortified, the poor boy turned eleven shades of red. Honda went on to say he was a she and still very shy. Ryou tried so hard to shrink away. I was ever so grateful everyone knew we were just joking around. This time the bus ride was to take everyone home. The route dropped Honda and Jou off first; I thanked the two for a wonderful time and eventually convinced Jou he could drop the turkey act. Honda was still amused with his hot pink hat and decided to wear it as they walked off. Anzu's stop was next, Yami and I were the next to get off as Ryou still had a piece left. He got off with us though. Only, it wasn't him. We knew the moment the hat he had sailed through the air and pegged Yami in the back. Both of us turned, Yami pulled the foam helmet off his head and immediately stepped in front of me.
"Come now Pharaoh. I know you're just as curious about what her world holds as I am."
"Of course I am, there's no denying that."
"And you just want the information for yourself, to regain everything you know you've lost. Am I not right?" A slightly wicked grin played at the corners of Bakura's lips as he flipped a stray strand of hair from his eyes.
Yami didn't answer, he narrowed his eyes and stepped forward some.
"Oh, no answer? You are, aren't you? You're wanting her for your own reasons. See that's the difference between you and I, you are acting totally innocent about this and will most likely drag it out. I on the other hand have made my agenda clear and won't pussy foot around the issue. I'll take what I need and be done with her."
"I can't allow any harm to come to her or for information to be let out."
A loud bark of laughter sounded, Bakura's head was thrown back and his arms were clutched at his sides. He lowered his head, his eyes wild and near insane. "Of course you can't! Should anyone get it before you then you can't have it yourself. Greedy little Pharaoh, deceitful little Pharaoh. When will you come to terms with the fact you are the same as I?" he cocked his head to the side, the unsettling smile still etched into his features.
"I am not and never will be. Yes I want to learn what her world has to offer, but at the same time I can't and won't. It's not meant to be known to us."
"Then why is she here, hmm? She serves some point, why isn't this it?"
"Does there have to be a reason? Maybe it was just a fluke, maybe it's got something to do with something back home," Sarah spoke up at last.
"Like what?" Bakura snorted.
"I don't know! Something! If I did know then maybe I wouldn't be in this mess," she hissed in return.
"Of course not, you would have scampered off at the first sign of trouble. Then this would all be over, no reason to become interested in a visitor. But that's the beauty of it, to get back home eventually you will give in and someone will find out what the Pharaoh doesn't want known. And then they can use it against the both of us." Bakura shot Yami a hateful glare.
"What makes you think getting back home is that big of a worry for me?"
Honestly, in a way I didn't want to go back. Why? I had become bored with everything, I didn't want a part of life there. But here, here I could start over. Make a new life with all new challenges and rewards. Here, I had reason to get out and be something. A whole new world that was so much more interesting that what I had known. The cons were many in number, but I was willing to try here anyway. That attitude would come in handy should I not be able to get back home...
"There you go again with that false bravery. Tell me, do you think others actually buy it? You're alone, all alone. Within time the Pharaoh and his twerp's caretaker will see you as a burden and cast you aside. None of his friends would do any good and then you'd be out here on your own, where I could--"
"That's enough, Tomb Raider. You will not instill doubt on her heart, no one is going to turn their backs on her. Leave here now, let it be. There is nothing to be gained."
Bakura took a idle step to the side where he furrowed his brow in thought. "For once, you are correct. She's had too much time to build up defenses. Probably churning out more of her fairy tale to make me sift through to even get to what I want. I'll take my leave for now, but you know as well as I do it's not over." His gaze shifted, to behind Yami. "Pleasant dreams, child," he said lowly to the woman.
"Start walking," Yami said without turning around.
"But..."
"Just go, it's only a block from here. I'll be right behind you."
"Fine," the woman sighed as she stooped to pick up the head gear both Yami and Bakura had discarded.
What else could I do? I walked off, casting a glance over my shoulder every once in a while. The two stood there, Bakura was watching me and Yami's back was turned. Why me? Why was I the one to end up here when there were a million other persons who knew far more about this world? And on top of that, how was I found out? I certainly didn't tell Bakura, nor did Yami. How does he know? Who else does? There is absolutely nothing special about me at all, besides what they think I can do for them. I went from being a total recluse to most wanted almost overnight, and this wasn't a normal hunt at all. I was in so much danger and I had no choice. I didn't ask for it, I didn't even stumble into it. I was placed here, and what for? To stir up trouble for these entities that I just happened to know slightly more about than the normal person from around here? No, that can't be it. Bakura was right, there is a reason. I mean, it's not like getting drunk and taking the bus to another state, no. This is bigger, much bigger. Something had to be done, someone somewhere did something to get me here. But how and why? And do I even want to know? My train of thought stopped when I felt something wavier inside me, it was a feeling like I had forgotten something and part of me was trying to remind me. I glanced over my shoulder once more, Yami and Bakura were gone. Presumably to the Shadow Realm. My pace hurried, I knew full well that one or both would be irritable when they returned. At least the Game Shop would be some form of safety.
"What do you know that I don't?" Yami demanded as he grabbed the Tomb Raider by the collar of his shirt.
"Perhaps nothing, it could just be a feeling I have," Bakura said smoothly he easily knocked the Pharaoh's hands off his person.
"I doubt that, you have to know something to have known about her before you were otherwise informed."
Bakura gave an annoyed sigh and shoved the Ring into the Pharaoh's face. "Have we forgotten already? Just because you lack proper knowledge about how to use that Puzzle of yours doesn't mean everyone is as slow to learn about their Items."
"And just what have you learned?" Yami asked as he brushed the Ring away.
Bakura let it fall back against his chest as he began to circle the other spirit. "Wouldn't you like to know," he chuckled darkly.
"Ah, so I was wrong. You don't know anything more, you're just pretending you do." Now Yami smiled.
"Jumping to conclusions. I'm ashamed of you, Pharaoh," Bakura shook his head.
"No, if you knew more then why do you still need her?"
"Because she's the key, idiot!" Bakura snapped.
"She's said it herself, she knows very little about anything."
"A key needs to know only one thing, the lock it is assigned to. She can't give me what I want, she can only open the door for me. That is all she is, nothing more and nothing less."
"And you don't wonder exactly how she got here, or just why she is?"
"Does it matter? She can lead you to knowledge, and what's that they say about knowledge? Oh yes, that it is power. Power, Pharaoh. Power that I will wield."
"Nothing comes without a price," Yami said bluntly.
"No, it doesn't. But I could easily skirt it."
"How, unless you know what the price would be. What if it was your soul, what would you have then?"
"If anything the price will be her life, destruction of the key. Once I have what I need, then she can die for all I care."
"And if you are stuck there, how would your knowledge help you?"
"Well I'd have to change things, it might slow me down but not stop me."
"You seem confident that nothing would stand in your way."
"Fool, what I already know and what I am will help me."
"So you think this punishment or price is aimed towards a mortal? Tell me, then, why it seems to appeal to just us? Would it not make sense that the price would also be aimed at us?"
"Maybe it is, maybe it isn't. I'm not foolish, if that's what you're thinking. I can and will get out of anything that might arise."
"I don't doubt your ability. I doubt the value of what you are so eagerly seeking." Before another word could be said, Yami pulled his essence out of the Shadow Realm.
"I'm not going to let you be alone anymore. Yugi and I will be in the room at night as well," Yami said once he closed the bedroom door.
"What happened out there?" the woman asked as she folded up the foam helmet.
"The usual with him. But he is determined to have you show him what he wants. Naturally, I can't allow it. I have my doubts of it's value, what worries me is your safety. I'm lost and confused on this, something doesn't feel right. You're out of place, and it just seems too convenient that you would come here knowing what you do. Bakura can't seem to see that, he just wants what you can give him. I want to know the full story."
"So do I. Look, I'm sorry for any trouble I have caused and most likely will cause. It wasn't my choice to be here, I don't know why I am or how. I have enjoyed most of my time here, the rest has been spent scared out of my mind. I'm just as lost as you, and being that I seem to be so important scares me even more. I don't like it when others seem to know more about my situation than I do."
"Now you have an understanding of how I felt when you told me what you know," Yami raised a brow. "In any event, I'll talk with you later. I've said all I feel the need to and I've kept my other half repressed long enough."
"So... you don't mind me camping in here? I'll be on the floor, of course," Yugi asked.
"Your company will be welcome. Bakura's really scaring me now," the woman replied.
"Things will turn out alright in the end. Don't worry. But for now let's get something to eat. I'm sure Grandpa would love to hear about our day."
"Only if you greet him wearing this!" the woman laughed as she pulled the folded foam helmet out.
"It'll swallow me!" Yugi laughed.
"That's the point. I just want to see how much."
"Up to my shoulders," came the small teen's muffled reply.
"Psst, Yugi. Quit tugging the sheets off the bed," a grumpy and groggy voice said before reclaiming the missing cloth.
"Muh, sorry," the sluggish reply sounded.
"Dude, if your cold I'll just give you the top cover thing. I don't really need it," Sarah yawned as she leaned over to peer at the floor.
"Would you? I forgot it's always cooler on the floor," he grunted as he sat up.
"All yours." The woman tugged quickly and deposited the thick cover on the smaller figure.
"Thanks," he muttered as he curled up under it.
"No prob, and thanks for camping with me. Makes me feel better."
"That's the idea," he chuckled.
"Yugi?"
"Hrm?"
"Can I speak to Yami for a moment, or would he prefer I wait till morning?"
"Now's fine," a considerably deeper voice said. The slight figure on the floor rolled over and propped himself up on an elbow. He moved a fringe of blonde hair out of his face and turned crimson eyes up to the bed.
"This is going to sound odd, but I had a bad dream. Nightmare, actually. I get em a lot, heh. Anyway, I just felt the need to mention this to you, cuz I don't know if it means anything or not. It was about Bakura, and it felt so real; like he was there. You wouldn't happen to know if he could get into a person's dreams, would you? He taunted me, tortured me. It was... graphic. And well, now I don't want to go back to sleep lest it come again."
There was a pause then a slight rustle as the Pharaoh rose to sit on the bed. "I honestly don't know, Sarah. I want to pass it off as nothing more than a nightmare, seeing as how you are an artist you have a wild imagination. But it is Bakura we're talking about." He moved an elegant hand up to her face and paused for moment before resting it against her forehead, then he moved his cool hand to her cheek and finally neck. "No fever that I can find. I think you're ok. Would you let me try something else?"
"What?" she quirked a brow at him.
"Close your eyes and just relax."
She stared at him blankly for a moment then cocked her head to the side.
"Relax, I just need you to let me search for something. The tiniest trace of residual magic or outside influence. But I need your cooperation, so your defenses need to be lowered or down."
"Alright, I think I can go that." She took a moment to ready herself before she granted him access.
There was an odd sensation as he made his way into my mind. Though, he was far gentler than Bakura had been. Yami was, well, friendlier and didn't push his way in. He waited for me to let him through barriers and let me know what he was doing as he did it. It was kinda cool, to hear his voice inside my head and to be able to respond without opening my mouth. He pulled out as neatly as he had gone in, not wanting to disturb anything.
"I didn't find a trace of tampering. You most likely dreamed it up all by yourself." the Spirit of the Puzzle said at last.
"Figured as much. Sometimes I hate my imagination."
"Don't let any of this bother you too much, Bakura will take great pleasure in toying with you should he become aware of your skittishness."
"I know, I know. It's hard, you know? Anyway, I should let you go back to sleep. Isn't the weekend over?" the woman asked before she began to gently push the Spirit's back.
"Yes, it is. I don't want my other half to be worn out. But if you need either of us, just give a shake," he replied as he slid off the bed and back to the make-shift cot on the floor.
"Thanks, rest well, Yami," she smiled.
When I awoke the next day, Yugi had departed for school and Mr. Mutou was busing himself with work in the shop, this left me some time to myself. I wanted to get out and walk a bit, Mr. Mutou was wary but said it was alright. He then gave me the number if I got lost and needed to call. Shouldn't be a problem, I didn't plan to walk too far and being in a strange place often leads to one paying more attention to surroundings.
It was nice out, the weather was good and the temp was cool. This place was huge, I'm a small town girl so this intimidated me a bit. Ok, it scared me a lot. So many persons out and about, of course I couldn't understand a soul. Good thing I didn't need directions. I had remembered some of the places I had visited with Anzu and Yugi, so I went back that direction. There were a few game shops in the area, electronic games that is. I found it amusing when I found games I knew of. Apparently, this world was a parallel to mine. They had so much of the same stuff that was familiar to me. Not being able to buy anything didn't bother me, I'm a browser anyway. I found an art store however, I missed my supplies and I couldn't help it. I had to go in. I was determined to buy a few items and due to random conversations I had with persons, I could pick out good deals on prices for items. It seemed silly at the time asking about art supplies, but it came in handy now. I got a mechanical pencil with plenty of lead, a sketchbook and an artist's eraser. I love those things. I wanted colors, Prismacolor to be exact. But figured it was too much, so I got a few ebony pencils and other various soft lead pencils with a blender instead. I could at least work in black and white. Oh, and a pencil sharpener. Can't do without one of those. With everything purchased and bagged, I was on my way. I had eaten before I left, so there was no need to stop anywhere. I was actually awake before noon, it was amazing. The lunch rush started about then, persons breezing past me from businesses and the like. Got a bit hectic so I ducked into a comic book store for a while. They had things in a few languages, so I was able to find some English titles. Once things were slow again outside, I went about my way. I had to smile when I caught a familiar sight, Domino High school I think it was. Name might be something else, but who cares? There were a few benches outside the fence and a nice view of a park across the way. A good place to sit and draw for a bit. I had no idea how long I planned to stay. Might be a bit amusing to see the look on their faces if they saw me waiting for them after school. Well, depending on how long classes were.
I didn't stay they whole afternoon. I did go back to the game shop for a bit but decided to head back out later. I sat myself on the same bench, it was near the main gates. I assumed everyone would head out that way so I was sure to catch someone. I got lost in a sketch, had snatched a loose card of Mammoth Graveyard and was working on that when a figure sat beside me. I glanced to the side quickly to catch the blue of the guy's school uniform. I raised my eyes to meet Ryou's face. He gave me a soft smile and pointed to my drawing.
"That is very good. The shading on the bones makes it look almost like a black and white photograph."
"Thanks, was a bit harder than I thought. I didn't want to copy the card, so I tried another view. I don't think the bone placement was done right."
He leaned in closer then, I started to feel very uncomfortable. I felt his breath near my ear and it dawned on me. Didn't see that coming. Hrm, sarcastic remarks sound funny when you think them. And didn't I already make that comment before?
"You're either very brave to come here alone, or you're beginning to see things my way," Bakura whispered fiercely.
"Perhaps, who knows," the woman answered softly.
Bakura pulled away and frowned. "You're getting better at it. Or cocky, hard to tell. But there are too many persons around," he said as he watched a few other schoolmates walk through the gates. He gave them a hard glare if they lingered too long in the area.
"Tell me something," Sarah began as she closed the book and leaned back on the bench. "Are you all talk or will you ever do anything?"
Bakura's brows furrowed momentarily before a twisted smile pulled at the corner of his lips. "You're really pushing it you know? Asking for it now and everything. Did you enjoy it last time? A sadistic one if so." His grin had widened considerably, amusement shown brightly in his eyes. "You are an interesting creature."
"I get that a lot," she said as she stood. "Walk with me," she almost commanded as she began to stride off.
What the hell am I doing!? I'm like, teasing him or daring him to try something. I'm out of my damn mind, I swear. I like to sometimes toy with a person, string them along and humor them. But this time it's different, he'll see right through me and won't be pleased or amused at all. Oh well, I'll drag it out for a bit. Just to see what happens. And I'll get my ass kicked in the process, but oh well. You only live once.
Yu-Gi-Oh! characters and everything related is (c) Kazuki Takahashi
The shake came again and she grunted before half heartedly swatting at the annoyance. It came again, now she could feel the pressure applied by the annoyance. A few more moments passed and she could determine the size of the object and identified it as a hand. Her eyes opened, the room was a big blur due to the fact her contacts weren't in. But the outline before her was unmistakable.
"I was beginning to think I would need backup. You swatted at me a few times," the teen teased.
"Did I miss?"
"Yeah."
"Damn," she grinned as she sat up.
"Funny," he replied. Sarah couldn't be sure but she thought she saw him stick his tongue out.
"Watch it or I'll take that from you," she mumbled as she stood.
"I thought you said you were blind, how did you see that?" he asked in utter confusion.
"Call it a feeling."
"I'm going to shower now. We've got about an hour and a half till the others arrive and we head out. That enough time? I should have asked last night..."
"Already showered, so it's enough," the woman nodded.
"Breakfast will be ready soon, Yugi," Mr. Mutou's voiced called from the kitchen. "I believe they were going to an amusement park, are you fond of them?"
"I love the roller coasters," the woman smiled as she got a glass of milk.
"Yugi's a bit short for most so I'd say you're going to spend the day with his other half so he isn't left out on some of the more popular rides."
"I was just wondering about that."
Time passed quickly and fairly quite, Mr. Mutou hummed to himself as he made breakfast and Sarah retuned to the bedroom to dress.
"Wait, she's dressing in there," Mr. Mutou warned as Yugi's small hand grasped the doorknob.
"Don't worry," the woman said as the door swung open. "I'm done. All yours," she stepped out to let the towel clad youth reclaim his room.
"Toast or not?" the elder asked.
"Mm, sounds good but I don't want to overdo it. The eggs and hash browns are just fine," she replied as she shoved her wallet into her pocket and straightened the chains. About then Yugi emerged from the bedroom dressed in simple jeans and t-shirt. The Puzzle he always had about his neck went nicely with the dark colors he had donned. "Most comfortable thing to wear, I say," the woman smiled.
After eating, Sarah finished getting ready by washing her face and brushing her teeth. While she had the toothbrush in her mouth still the others arrived. Always it seemed to be fascinating to watch others when they brushed. Eventually Sarah just closed the door, leaving Yugi and her alone in the bathroom. Jou was teasing she assumed, and it was getting laughs from everyone besides Anzu. The other girl giggled occasionally but was mainly quiet.
"What do you say to attacking Jou with toothbrushes before they're rinsed?" the woman asked as she spit. Yugi only gave a slight laugh before he did the same.
"I value my toothbrush," the teen laughed.
"Good point, toilet brush then?"
"NO!" Yugi giggled insanely. "We'd have to wait on him to change and then we wouldn't be in there at the opening."
"Ok, good reason." The woman opened the door again as she rinsed her mouth out and made sure to fling water from her hand at Jou and whoever else happened to be in the way. Ryou made a big show about getting sprinkled.
"Everyone ready?" Yami asked as he stepped out of the bathroom, it scared Sarah slightly.
"Warn me, please! You do that too much," she complained.
"Surprises keep you on your feet," the spirit tilted his head as he tried to make a serious face. But the glare he was getting from the taller woman made him crack a smile. He asked Honda and Jou if they were ready before the group departed. Mr. Mutou wished them all a good time and to be safe.
"We're taking the bus, it's always empty at this time on Sundays. Later is a different story," Anzu said.
Oooh, bus. Fun. I had bad memories of public transportation from college. My apartment was about two miles from the school. Had no car so I would have to catch a ride with someone else or use the bus. Well, a few times the bus wouldn't stop. Mainly when I was alone at the stop. I happened to go to school in a rich neighborhood and well, I didn't look rich. Guess they thought me to be a trouble maker and didn't want to stop. When I was with a group, things were fine. On my own they never stopped. I walked a few times, right next to a major street with traffic jams at all hours but 3am to 5am.
Jou cried out something as they boarded, Ryou said he had claimed the back and was currently making a mad dash towards it. Honda followed next then the rest. Only elderly persons were on at the moment, and in scattered seats. The group of teens with the lone woman were the loudest on the bus.
"So what's this place like?" Sarah asked as she leaned over the back of the seat she and Anzu shared, Anzu was already facing the back.
"Typical park. Not a theme park like America though, so prices are actually within reason," Ryou answered from across the aisle. As if he understood her question, Jou began to make hand movements akin to the course of a rollercoaster.
"He says he's going to take you on the biggest one just to see how loud you scream," Yami relayed.
"Tell him I don't scream," the woman beamed. Jou shook his head and said something.
"He bets you do," Anzu giggled.
"If he takes to poking me, I'll bite his fingers off or something."
Ryou translated and Jou protectively crammed his hands in his pockets, resulting in a laugh from the whole group.
"Honda wants to know what rides you won't go near so he can keep Jou from tricking you onto one," Ryou asked.
"Anything that spins, I hate that stuff with a passion. Get sick as I can be," the woman replied as a tire swing incident from kindergarten came to mind.
"You and me both," the light haired teen replied before he informed Honda of the woman's answer.
The ride was about forty-five minuets, if not for all the stops the bus made it might have been only half an hour. The gates of the park already had families lined up waiting to get in. Being that it was during the school season and on a weekend, the crowd was to be expected. It was also a tourist spot apparently, Sarah caught dozens of scattered English conversation. Anzu giggled and had Sarah look to one man holding a book.
"He's trying to ask the security guard if there is a reduced rate for children, only he asked if his son could buy the guard." Sarah laughed as well before Anzu stopped to answer the man's question. He felt highly embarrassed when the teen informed him of what he originally said.
"Oh! I should have left my chains back at Yugi's, I'll never get in with these, hope they have a security place I can check them at," Sarah mumbled as she went to remove her wallet and keys from it.
"Actually, you should get in fine. Trust me, I've seen persons with far worse wandering around in there before," Anzu assured her.
"We'll I'll wait then," the woman replied as she pocketed her wallet again.
"Hey you two, you going to stand around out there or would you like to join us inside?" Ryou called from where he and the other guys had just picked up admission tickets.
"Who paid? I owe em," Sarah said once she and Anzu had caught up.
"No, I took care of it, don't worry," Ryou shook his head. "And you too, Anzu. No need to repay me, you've paid for me before and always refused it when I'd offer to repay, so this will work."
"Well, thank you," Sarah smiled.
"See, you always find a way to repay me, even if I refuse," Anzu giggled.
"Just don't feel right without doing so," he shrugged.
Sarah was jerked forward by Jou, anxious to get into the park and get her on the largest coaster. "He's going to pull my arm off if he doesn't watch it," she scowled.
"Don't fight him, it'll go easier. He doesn't bite," Yami chuckled.
"No but I'm afraid he's going to try and get me on a spinning ride."
What do you know, Anzu was right. I got past the ticket check easily, no one asked me to remove the chains. I did slide them into my pocket though, just so they weren't dangling about. Jou still had me by the arm, we were acting as leaders for the group as he dragged us off somewhere. Anzu was right, the place looked about like a theme park, only no character art all over the place. There were plenty of game booths, prizes such as stuffed animals and other things you could win at such a place. I glanced at one shop I think it was, selling oddly decorated cowboy hats. I had a feeling we'd stop in there later, but I was going to avoid it if at all possible.
"Jou, where are we heading?" Honda asked the blonde teen.
"To a ride, duh," he replied.
"But it looks like you're heading off to that spinning thing. She won't be too happy you know," Honda reminded him.
"Yuug and the others won't let me, don't worry. And there are other rides in that area you know."
"Won't let you what?" Yami asked.
"Trick her into getting on a spinning ride. Besides, I just got her to be friendly. You think I'd do something stupid like that?"
"Yes," Honda snorted.
"Why thank you so much," Jou rolled his eyes.
I had fun with them, language wasn't a problem. Laughter, smiles and hand movements told all. We had a blast, running around from ride-to-ride and playing games here and there. As much as I would have loved to have kept the giant mouse thing I won, I wasn't home and had no place to put it. I ended up giving it to Anzu, but the day wasn't yet over so we ended up passing the huge thing between each other up until when we left.
We were worn out by then, a long day of laughing and playing tends to do that. But the day wasn't over yet, not by a long shot. Jou insisted we go to the game booth that had the wildly colored cowboy hats as prizes. Yami pretty much confirmed my thoughts when he said Jou was going to win one for me. I told him he didn't have to, but Jou's mind was set on it. At least he picked out a decent one, it was purple with leopard spots on it. Kinda reminded me more of a pimp hat, but I wore it anyway to humor him. Ryou thought it was the funniest thing in the world, until I decided to try my hand at the game and got a bright green one for him. Anzu said Yami would look hysterical in one, if we could get it to sit over his hair at least. Well that wouldn't work so we instead got Honda to wear the hot pink thing, but we did find a place that had these outrageously huge suit of armor helmets made of foam. That worked, I had never seen Yami look so disgusted when we managed to talk him into wandering around in it. I wish I had a camera... Jou and Anzu were all that was left without some silly form of head gear. Anzu was currently hauling the stuffed animal around so that worked. Jou however, well we got him to strut around with a feathered Indian like head dress proclaiming he was a turkey. He continued with the turkey act even after we got back on the bus. This time it was almost full which really made for a good laugh.
Honda got in on the fun then, he proclaimed himself a pimp and that Ryou and I were his 'associates.' Ryou was mortified, the poor boy turned eleven shades of red. Honda went on to say he was a she and still very shy. Ryou tried so hard to shrink away. I was ever so grateful everyone knew we were just joking around. This time the bus ride was to take everyone home. The route dropped Honda and Jou off first; I thanked the two for a wonderful time and eventually convinced Jou he could drop the turkey act. Honda was still amused with his hot pink hat and decided to wear it as they walked off. Anzu's stop was next, Yami and I were the next to get off as Ryou still had a piece left. He got off with us though. Only, it wasn't him. We knew the moment the hat he had sailed through the air and pegged Yami in the back. Both of us turned, Yami pulled the foam helmet off his head and immediately stepped in front of me.
"Come now Pharaoh. I know you're just as curious about what her world holds as I am."
"Of course I am, there's no denying that."
"And you just want the information for yourself, to regain everything you know you've lost. Am I not right?" A slightly wicked grin played at the corners of Bakura's lips as he flipped a stray strand of hair from his eyes.
Yami didn't answer, he narrowed his eyes and stepped forward some.
"Oh, no answer? You are, aren't you? You're wanting her for your own reasons. See that's the difference between you and I, you are acting totally innocent about this and will most likely drag it out. I on the other hand have made my agenda clear and won't pussy foot around the issue. I'll take what I need and be done with her."
"I can't allow any harm to come to her or for information to be let out."
A loud bark of laughter sounded, Bakura's head was thrown back and his arms were clutched at his sides. He lowered his head, his eyes wild and near insane. "Of course you can't! Should anyone get it before you then you can't have it yourself. Greedy little Pharaoh, deceitful little Pharaoh. When will you come to terms with the fact you are the same as I?" he cocked his head to the side, the unsettling smile still etched into his features.
"I am not and never will be. Yes I want to learn what her world has to offer, but at the same time I can't and won't. It's not meant to be known to us."
"Then why is she here, hmm? She serves some point, why isn't this it?"
"Does there have to be a reason? Maybe it was just a fluke, maybe it's got something to do with something back home," Sarah spoke up at last.
"Like what?" Bakura snorted.
"I don't know! Something! If I did know then maybe I wouldn't be in this mess," she hissed in return.
"Of course not, you would have scampered off at the first sign of trouble. Then this would all be over, no reason to become interested in a visitor. But that's the beauty of it, to get back home eventually you will give in and someone will find out what the Pharaoh doesn't want known. And then they can use it against the both of us." Bakura shot Yami a hateful glare.
"What makes you think getting back home is that big of a worry for me?"
Honestly, in a way I didn't want to go back. Why? I had become bored with everything, I didn't want a part of life there. But here, here I could start over. Make a new life with all new challenges and rewards. Here, I had reason to get out and be something. A whole new world that was so much more interesting that what I had known. The cons were many in number, but I was willing to try here anyway. That attitude would come in handy should I not be able to get back home...
"There you go again with that false bravery. Tell me, do you think others actually buy it? You're alone, all alone. Within time the Pharaoh and his twerp's caretaker will see you as a burden and cast you aside. None of his friends would do any good and then you'd be out here on your own, where I could--"
"That's enough, Tomb Raider. You will not instill doubt on her heart, no one is going to turn their backs on her. Leave here now, let it be. There is nothing to be gained."
Bakura took a idle step to the side where he furrowed his brow in thought. "For once, you are correct. She's had too much time to build up defenses. Probably churning out more of her fairy tale to make me sift through to even get to what I want. I'll take my leave for now, but you know as well as I do it's not over." His gaze shifted, to behind Yami. "Pleasant dreams, child," he said lowly to the woman.
"Start walking," Yami said without turning around.
"But..."
"Just go, it's only a block from here. I'll be right behind you."
"Fine," the woman sighed as she stooped to pick up the head gear both Yami and Bakura had discarded.
What else could I do? I walked off, casting a glance over my shoulder every once in a while. The two stood there, Bakura was watching me and Yami's back was turned. Why me? Why was I the one to end up here when there were a million other persons who knew far more about this world? And on top of that, how was I found out? I certainly didn't tell Bakura, nor did Yami. How does he know? Who else does? There is absolutely nothing special about me at all, besides what they think I can do for them. I went from being a total recluse to most wanted almost overnight, and this wasn't a normal hunt at all. I was in so much danger and I had no choice. I didn't ask for it, I didn't even stumble into it. I was placed here, and what for? To stir up trouble for these entities that I just happened to know slightly more about than the normal person from around here? No, that can't be it. Bakura was right, there is a reason. I mean, it's not like getting drunk and taking the bus to another state, no. This is bigger, much bigger. Something had to be done, someone somewhere did something to get me here. But how and why? And do I even want to know? My train of thought stopped when I felt something wavier inside me, it was a feeling like I had forgotten something and part of me was trying to remind me. I glanced over my shoulder once more, Yami and Bakura were gone. Presumably to the Shadow Realm. My pace hurried, I knew full well that one or both would be irritable when they returned. At least the Game Shop would be some form of safety.
"What do you know that I don't?" Yami demanded as he grabbed the Tomb Raider by the collar of his shirt.
"Perhaps nothing, it could just be a feeling I have," Bakura said smoothly he easily knocked the Pharaoh's hands off his person.
"I doubt that, you have to know something to have known about her before you were otherwise informed."
Bakura gave an annoyed sigh and shoved the Ring into the Pharaoh's face. "Have we forgotten already? Just because you lack proper knowledge about how to use that Puzzle of yours doesn't mean everyone is as slow to learn about their Items."
"And just what have you learned?" Yami asked as he brushed the Ring away.
Bakura let it fall back against his chest as he began to circle the other spirit. "Wouldn't you like to know," he chuckled darkly.
"Ah, so I was wrong. You don't know anything more, you're just pretending you do." Now Yami smiled.
"Jumping to conclusions. I'm ashamed of you, Pharaoh," Bakura shook his head.
"No, if you knew more then why do you still need her?"
"Because she's the key, idiot!" Bakura snapped.
"She's said it herself, she knows very little about anything."
"A key needs to know only one thing, the lock it is assigned to. She can't give me what I want, she can only open the door for me. That is all she is, nothing more and nothing less."
"And you don't wonder exactly how she got here, or just why she is?"
"Does it matter? She can lead you to knowledge, and what's that they say about knowledge? Oh yes, that it is power. Power, Pharaoh. Power that I will wield."
"Nothing comes without a price," Yami said bluntly.
"No, it doesn't. But I could easily skirt it."
"How, unless you know what the price would be. What if it was your soul, what would you have then?"
"If anything the price will be her life, destruction of the key. Once I have what I need, then she can die for all I care."
"And if you are stuck there, how would your knowledge help you?"
"Well I'd have to change things, it might slow me down but not stop me."
"You seem confident that nothing would stand in your way."
"Fool, what I already know and what I am will help me."
"So you think this punishment or price is aimed towards a mortal? Tell me, then, why it seems to appeal to just us? Would it not make sense that the price would also be aimed at us?"
"Maybe it is, maybe it isn't. I'm not foolish, if that's what you're thinking. I can and will get out of anything that might arise."
"I don't doubt your ability. I doubt the value of what you are so eagerly seeking." Before another word could be said, Yami pulled his essence out of the Shadow Realm.
"I'm not going to let you be alone anymore. Yugi and I will be in the room at night as well," Yami said once he closed the bedroom door.
"What happened out there?" the woman asked as she folded up the foam helmet.
"The usual with him. But he is determined to have you show him what he wants. Naturally, I can't allow it. I have my doubts of it's value, what worries me is your safety. I'm lost and confused on this, something doesn't feel right. You're out of place, and it just seems too convenient that you would come here knowing what you do. Bakura can't seem to see that, he just wants what you can give him. I want to know the full story."
"So do I. Look, I'm sorry for any trouble I have caused and most likely will cause. It wasn't my choice to be here, I don't know why I am or how. I have enjoyed most of my time here, the rest has been spent scared out of my mind. I'm just as lost as you, and being that I seem to be so important scares me even more. I don't like it when others seem to know more about my situation than I do."
"Now you have an understanding of how I felt when you told me what you know," Yami raised a brow. "In any event, I'll talk with you later. I've said all I feel the need to and I've kept my other half repressed long enough."
"So... you don't mind me camping in here? I'll be on the floor, of course," Yugi asked.
"Your company will be welcome. Bakura's really scaring me now," the woman replied.
"Things will turn out alright in the end. Don't worry. But for now let's get something to eat. I'm sure Grandpa would love to hear about our day."
"Only if you greet him wearing this!" the woman laughed as she pulled the folded foam helmet out.
"It'll swallow me!" Yugi laughed.
"That's the point. I just want to see how much."
"Up to my shoulders," came the small teen's muffled reply.
"Psst, Yugi. Quit tugging the sheets off the bed," a grumpy and groggy voice said before reclaiming the missing cloth.
"Muh, sorry," the sluggish reply sounded.
"Dude, if your cold I'll just give you the top cover thing. I don't really need it," Sarah yawned as she leaned over to peer at the floor.
"Would you? I forgot it's always cooler on the floor," he grunted as he sat up.
"All yours." The woman tugged quickly and deposited the thick cover on the smaller figure.
"Thanks," he muttered as he curled up under it.
"No prob, and thanks for camping with me. Makes me feel better."
"That's the idea," he chuckled.
"Yugi?"
"Hrm?"
"Can I speak to Yami for a moment, or would he prefer I wait till morning?"
"Now's fine," a considerably deeper voice said. The slight figure on the floor rolled over and propped himself up on an elbow. He moved a fringe of blonde hair out of his face and turned crimson eyes up to the bed.
"This is going to sound odd, but I had a bad dream. Nightmare, actually. I get em a lot, heh. Anyway, I just felt the need to mention this to you, cuz I don't know if it means anything or not. It was about Bakura, and it felt so real; like he was there. You wouldn't happen to know if he could get into a person's dreams, would you? He taunted me, tortured me. It was... graphic. And well, now I don't want to go back to sleep lest it come again."
There was a pause then a slight rustle as the Pharaoh rose to sit on the bed. "I honestly don't know, Sarah. I want to pass it off as nothing more than a nightmare, seeing as how you are an artist you have a wild imagination. But it is Bakura we're talking about." He moved an elegant hand up to her face and paused for moment before resting it against her forehead, then he moved his cool hand to her cheek and finally neck. "No fever that I can find. I think you're ok. Would you let me try something else?"
"What?" she quirked a brow at him.
"Close your eyes and just relax."
She stared at him blankly for a moment then cocked her head to the side.
"Relax, I just need you to let me search for something. The tiniest trace of residual magic or outside influence. But I need your cooperation, so your defenses need to be lowered or down."
"Alright, I think I can go that." She took a moment to ready herself before she granted him access.
There was an odd sensation as he made his way into my mind. Though, he was far gentler than Bakura had been. Yami was, well, friendlier and didn't push his way in. He waited for me to let him through barriers and let me know what he was doing as he did it. It was kinda cool, to hear his voice inside my head and to be able to respond without opening my mouth. He pulled out as neatly as he had gone in, not wanting to disturb anything.
"I didn't find a trace of tampering. You most likely dreamed it up all by yourself." the Spirit of the Puzzle said at last.
"Figured as much. Sometimes I hate my imagination."
"Don't let any of this bother you too much, Bakura will take great pleasure in toying with you should he become aware of your skittishness."
"I know, I know. It's hard, you know? Anyway, I should let you go back to sleep. Isn't the weekend over?" the woman asked before she began to gently push the Spirit's back.
"Yes, it is. I don't want my other half to be worn out. But if you need either of us, just give a shake," he replied as he slid off the bed and back to the make-shift cot on the floor.
"Thanks, rest well, Yami," she smiled.
When I awoke the next day, Yugi had departed for school and Mr. Mutou was busing himself with work in the shop, this left me some time to myself. I wanted to get out and walk a bit, Mr. Mutou was wary but said it was alright. He then gave me the number if I got lost and needed to call. Shouldn't be a problem, I didn't plan to walk too far and being in a strange place often leads to one paying more attention to surroundings.
It was nice out, the weather was good and the temp was cool. This place was huge, I'm a small town girl so this intimidated me a bit. Ok, it scared me a lot. So many persons out and about, of course I couldn't understand a soul. Good thing I didn't need directions. I had remembered some of the places I had visited with Anzu and Yugi, so I went back that direction. There were a few game shops in the area, electronic games that is. I found it amusing when I found games I knew of. Apparently, this world was a parallel to mine. They had so much of the same stuff that was familiar to me. Not being able to buy anything didn't bother me, I'm a browser anyway. I found an art store however, I missed my supplies and I couldn't help it. I had to go in. I was determined to buy a few items and due to random conversations I had with persons, I could pick out good deals on prices for items. It seemed silly at the time asking about art supplies, but it came in handy now. I got a mechanical pencil with plenty of lead, a sketchbook and an artist's eraser. I love those things. I wanted colors, Prismacolor to be exact. But figured it was too much, so I got a few ebony pencils and other various soft lead pencils with a blender instead. I could at least work in black and white. Oh, and a pencil sharpener. Can't do without one of those. With everything purchased and bagged, I was on my way. I had eaten before I left, so there was no need to stop anywhere. I was actually awake before noon, it was amazing. The lunch rush started about then, persons breezing past me from businesses and the like. Got a bit hectic so I ducked into a comic book store for a while. They had things in a few languages, so I was able to find some English titles. Once things were slow again outside, I went about my way. I had to smile when I caught a familiar sight, Domino High school I think it was. Name might be something else, but who cares? There were a few benches outside the fence and a nice view of a park across the way. A good place to sit and draw for a bit. I had no idea how long I planned to stay. Might be a bit amusing to see the look on their faces if they saw me waiting for them after school. Well, depending on how long classes were.
I didn't stay they whole afternoon. I did go back to the game shop for a bit but decided to head back out later. I sat myself on the same bench, it was near the main gates. I assumed everyone would head out that way so I was sure to catch someone. I got lost in a sketch, had snatched a loose card of Mammoth Graveyard and was working on that when a figure sat beside me. I glanced to the side quickly to catch the blue of the guy's school uniform. I raised my eyes to meet Ryou's face. He gave me a soft smile and pointed to my drawing.
"That is very good. The shading on the bones makes it look almost like a black and white photograph."
"Thanks, was a bit harder than I thought. I didn't want to copy the card, so I tried another view. I don't think the bone placement was done right."
He leaned in closer then, I started to feel very uncomfortable. I felt his breath near my ear and it dawned on me. Didn't see that coming. Hrm, sarcastic remarks sound funny when you think them. And didn't I already make that comment before?
"You're either very brave to come here alone, or you're beginning to see things my way," Bakura whispered fiercely.
"Perhaps, who knows," the woman answered softly.
Bakura pulled away and frowned. "You're getting better at it. Or cocky, hard to tell. But there are too many persons around," he said as he watched a few other schoolmates walk through the gates. He gave them a hard glare if they lingered too long in the area.
"Tell me something," Sarah began as she closed the book and leaned back on the bench. "Are you all talk or will you ever do anything?"
Bakura's brows furrowed momentarily before a twisted smile pulled at the corner of his lips. "You're really pushing it you know? Asking for it now and everything. Did you enjoy it last time? A sadistic one if so." His grin had widened considerably, amusement shown brightly in his eyes. "You are an interesting creature."
"I get that a lot," she said as she stood. "Walk with me," she almost commanded as she began to stride off.
What the hell am I doing!? I'm like, teasing him or daring him to try something. I'm out of my damn mind, I swear. I like to sometimes toy with a person, string them along and humor them. But this time it's different, he'll see right through me and won't be pleased or amused at all. Oh well, I'll drag it out for a bit. Just to see what happens. And I'll get my ass kicked in the process, but oh well. You only live once.