Wingzero: I've read somewhere that a serious fan fic should not have
announcements or interaction between muses and the author. Anyone care to
comment on that?
DS: Don't look at me and hey, why am I not in this fic?
Wingzero: rolls eyes Cause I don't want you to be.
DS: Meanie!!
Goku (Saiyuki): Hey, that's my line!!!
THWACK! THWACK! THWACK!
Sanzo: has an anime vein and holding his harisen
DS: Itai yo! That really hurts! glares at Sanzo
Wingzero: Do it again!
DS: HEY!!! WHO'S SIDE ARE YOU ON???
Disclaimer: No own, except the extra OCs (ie the pedestrians, the college girls, the twins, & the land lady).
Now the first order of business was to get something to eat. What? I'd like to see you go for weeks without eating and then change into a powerful duel monster. Uh, scratch that. You most likely won't be experiencing this. In any case, I was extremely hungry. I caught Yami giving me an amused look.
"What?" I asked, completely exasperated.
"You're beginning to sound like Joey," Yami commented, causing me to blanch. I do not act like Joey, not at all!
My violet eyes narrowed. "You're joking, right Yami?"
"You can take it however you like want," was all his reply. He turned to leave the room. "Are you coming or not?"
I was pissed off by the former pharaoh, but the prospect of me being fed made me forget. "I'm coming. Hold your camels."
"Isn't it supposed to be horses?" Yami raised a brow at my version of an old saying, surprising me that he actually knew it.
Needless to say, I was amused. "Yes, it may be, but we're from Egypt, duh. We use camels not horses. How could you forget?"
Crimson eyes rolled. He made his way out of the room with me trailing not far behind. Yugi's house was directly above the game shop so we were standing on the second story. Yeah, you'd probably figured that out by now.
"I suppose you know how to cook?" Yami inquired warily. He made his way to the kitchen with me not knowing which way it was. Hey, this was my first time at Yugi's place.
Since Isis sometimes spent more time doing her research or organizing her archaeological findings, I had to learn how to cook or order out. Take out food was expensive so that option was out, because I don't want to get a job.
"You should be fortunate," I smirked as we entered the kitchen. My companion seemed to be nervous about being in there. "If I wanted to eat, I had to learn how to cook. Fast food is way too expensive and I didn't want to get a job."
"Good because I don't..."
"Know how to use any of these machines without proper supervision," I completed his statement with humor.
His response was a snort. "That wasn't necessary."
"But it was so amusing," I laughed, much to the annoyance of the spirit. "Besides, you didn't almost burn the house down like Bakura."
Suddenly I heard a crash behind me. I turned around to find Yami leaning against the counter and laughing very hard. I'd never thought I'd see the former pharaoh acting like this. Moments later, he managed to compose himself.
"You don't say?" Yami gasped. "At least, I learned how to use the microwave. You shouldn't put anything metal in there. " His ruby red eyes held amusement.
"No, Ryou caught him and I don't know how he did it, but he trained the tomb robber to use the kitchen appliances though I doubt it helped," I held back my laughter. "However, I would suggest not bringing it up in his presence or he may decided to get revenge."
"Noted," the former pharaoh acknowledged.
Saunter to the fridge, I poked my head into it and searched for a few things. They ought to have some as they were common, but I doubt they cook from scratch.
"Do you have any suggestions?"
Yami seemed to be thoughtful for a moment before he shrugged his shoulders. "Not really."
I grumbled, "Some help you are." Why not? I grabbed the carton of eggs and a few vegetables. Placing them on the counter, I wondered what type of meat I should use. Then again, the eggs should be enough. That was when I had a sudden inspiration. Hopefully, they had some.
"You're not planning on taking over the world?" Yami inquired with a suspicious voice.
I peered over the fridge door and smirked. "That was Marik's ambition. Mine is to take over this kitchen!" I chuckled at my companion's groan. Yeah, it was a lame joke, so sue me. On second thought don't or all you'd be getting were my library fines.
Returning my attention to my task at hand, I shuffled the items around. Now where would they keep it? The jars made clinking sounds as they were moved around, and a few heavy items had thump sounds.
"What are you looking for?" A deep voice sounded.
"Salsa," I replied, still searching for the elusive sauce. "Would you mind washing the vegetables while I search?"
"I don't mind though you're searching in the wrong place." This caused me to raise a brow. "It's in one of the cabinets." Oh, so now he tells me.
Inwardly cursing I padded over to the nearest cabinet and opened it to reveal the salsa jar staring directly at me. Why didn't he tell me this before I went through all this trouble? I ran my hand through my blonde locks. Then I picked up the tomato product and placed it with the other ingredients.
Yami had a smirk plastered on his face as he washed the produce. Well at least he knew how to use the faucet. Maybe I could teach him how to use the microwave next. While he was taking care of the vegetables, I grabbed a large bowl and cracked half a dozen eggs before dumping the contents of the eggs in, minus the shells. Once I whipped the eggs, I prepped the pan. Yami was finished.
"Next is chopping these into small pieces," I informed the tri-color haired midget. Okay so I still liked making fun of him, and no, don't sue me! Selecting a couple of sharp knives, I handed one of them over to Yami. Hopefully, he had some experience with these. I was sure he at least handled short blades as weapons. "You do know how to use this."
Yami now sported a mock scowl on his face. "Yugi has been teaching me. I know what I'm doing." He pulled out a peeler before using it on the carrots.
Well, I'll be. He actually knew something. I did the bell peppers. Soon enough, the vegetables were cut and I was cooking the omelets. I didn't trust the spirit to handle this part, even if he said Yugi taught him how. Instead I had him set up the table.
Once I finished cooking, Yami was hesitant on trying my concoction. He knew I didn't poison them as he was there the entire time. It couldn't be food poisoning. If it was the case, it wasn't my fault!
"Come on," I sighed in exasperation. I had finished a third of my portion. He was being stubborn yet again. Honestly, I wasn't in the revenge thing unless you counted pranks.
The former pharaoh eyed his plate before hesitantly cutting a small piece. Bah, he wasn't going to taste it that way. Well, it certainly was an improvement. I turned away so he wouldn't feel uncomfortable. "So how is it?"
"It's not bad," Yami replied. I could tell he wasn't lying or trying to be sarcastic. "Although I can't say it's the best."
Turning around, I showed I wasn't mad at his comment. "Yeah, I'm not a professional chef like the ones you had back in Egypt. Nor do I ever want to be."
"Me either," Yami agreed without his mouth full. "You don't want to know what they used. On second thought, I don't want to also."
I chuckled at that thought. Some things were better left unsaid. Anyways, we talked about what happened while I was gone. The others first went on a rescue mission. Later on, it changed to a body recovery. The body search ceased three weeks later. I wasn't surprised they had given up on locating it. The ocean was one large place and for all we know, sharks could have gotten to it. Ew. Now the surprising part was Kaiba. He funded the entire rescue operation. The others were surprised as well. You'd think he didn't want any part o fit. Maybe he dated my sister or something.
"Where's Bakura?"
"He's normally in his soul room brooding over something or annoying Ryou," Yami replied with a sigh. We finished washing the dishes and were deciding what to do.
Obviously, I didn't want to attend school. Yeah, no tests for me. You know, it might be worth it to see their faces when their supposedly dead classmate returned from the grave. Of course, they were already afraid of me to begin with. It may end up being more disastrous. Eh, better scratch that idea. Besides, Isis might wring my neck for not telling her first.
"Speaking of which, you know where my sister is?" I inquired, leaning back on the sofa. We thought about heading to the arcade, but games usually cost money. The other duelist would most likely be either at school or at work so that was also out of the question. I would think my sister was at work or something.
Thinking it over, Yami replied, "She's probably at home. Her boss and coworkers thought she should take time off after your funeral to 'adjust' as they say."
"Then that's where we're headed first," I chirped while jumping up on the sofa. We were the only family unless you counted Rishid, but he was an adopted big brother to the both of us.
Crimson eyes blinked with confusion until realization dawned on him. He picked himself up from the other end of the sofa and sauntered over to the stairs. "Let's take our leave, shall we?"
Nodding my head, I sprang from my position. It was good to see her even if she was annoying. Since Yami didn't drive, it will have to be by foot. Besides, both of us could use the exercise and don't even think of calling me fat.
Solomon or Grandpa was working in the game shop. Since it was a school day and morning, business was slow. No doubt, Duke had the same situation with his store. That was not the point. We descended the stairs with Yami taking the lead. No need to give the old guy a heart attack.
"Yami, I didn't know you stayed behind," Solomon called out to the former pharaoh. "I thought you were with Yugi at school, keeping an eye on him." There was a moment of silence. Oh yeah, I was behind the door so I can't see either of the two and they can't see me. "He was acting strange this morning. I'm glad he isn't sulking, but this change is sudden, especially after yesterday."
"Things have changed," Yami's deep voice sounded. Was that my cue to appear or should I have been there already? What the heck?
Stepping out, I found a very surprised Solomon. He appeared to be on the verge of fainting or something. His left hand rested against the counter for support while his right hand covered his heart. Violet eyes were wide as they took in the situation.
"How is this possible?"
"Don't look at me," I stated, holding up my hands defensively. "All I remember was jumping and then ending up in Yugi's deck as a duel monster."
"The souls of the three god cards were separated from their bodies." Yami explained in a serious but low tone as if someone was trying to eavesdrop on our conversation. "Malik's soul is one of them. We have yet to find the other two."
"Which one is he?" Solomon inquired, having come off his initial shock.
A vein appeared on my temple. "You know I'm right here."
Solomon gave a nervous laugh and apologized.
"Winged Dragon of Ra, That's what I am."
"Which leaves Obelisk and Sylfer," Solomon finished off. We both nodded our heads in response.
Taking a seat on the chair, I watched the other two talk while interjecting something here and there. It seemed Solomon was used to the idea of having the dark spirit around.
"Kaiba has Obelisk," Yami bluntly pointed out. He too had taken a seat. "I doubt he is going to give it up any time soon though I know he will keep it safely guarded until the need arises."
"Does anyone know about this?"
The pharaoh shook his head. "My duel monsters are the only ones and I have given them strict orders not to tell anyone. They are not to discuss the matter."
"Try telling that to your Dark Magician Girl," I sighed out loud. She was a nice kid, but she can be dense at times.
"I have Dark Magician, Magician of Black Chaos, and Mystical Elf keeping a close eye on her," Yami answered me, while glancing around for any customers, "although Celtic Guardian and Dark Luster Soldier aren't exactly happy about my orders." I swore I saw an amused glint in his eyes. Dark Magician and Celtic Guardian were an item, which brought me to wonder why would the Dark Luster Soldier be upset. It wasn't exactly dating the other magician, was he?
"And the others?" Solomon spoke up, highly nervous.
Yami shook his head. "We didn't have a chance to tell them as we found out only last night, though I'm hesitant on telling them. Joey, Tristan, Tea, Mai, Duke, and Serenity are in no way connected to the shadow realm." Crimson eyes closed wearily. "I do not wish them to be involved in any way for they may be injured or worse even killed."
The elder nodded his head. He too wanted to spare the group any more pain than necessary. "Speaking of the others, do they know?" His violet eyes moved in my direction.
In response Yami shook his head again. "Out of them, only Yugi knows, but I'm guessing half the school will know by the time they're let out. I know Yugi would not let anyone know about the duel monster aspect. In any case, we're on our way to Isis' place to tell her the good news in person, though I'm not sure we need to." Oh? "She has the millennium tauk so she might have seen it."
"Either way, I still want to talk to her," I pointed out. After what I put her through, she deserved to know. Something told me she deserved better than this. This was my mess, but she accepted her millennium item.
"I should let you go then," Solomon stepped towards the unopened packages. "Family is important. She loves you. You know that?"
I nodded my head and stood up. It was time to go. As I was turning to leave, a hand stopped me. I whirled around to face the owner of the offending hand when a pair of sunglasses was handed to me.
"So you're not recognized before we reach Isis."
In case you haven't forgotten, you bring more attention to us than me, oh duel monsters champion." Still I accepted the pair of sunglasses without any further complaints.
"True, Yugi and I do share a rather unique hairstyle." He too wore a pair of sunglasses, not that it would do him any good. If he were to shave his head or get a wig, then he had a better chance of blending into the crowd.
Placing the shades on, I smirked. We shoved off. My place wasn't far from here. Strange, here we were living close to the Mutou residence yet we have not stopped by at all. Perhaps, it was due to our hectic schedules and we either had work or school. Okay, I don't go to school, but that didn't mean I had spare time. With my darker half plotting to steal the pharaoh's power, it left me very much occupied... Trying not to become insane as he was.
Outside, I found things to be pretty much the same. After all, it had only been a month or around that time since the incident. If it was a decade, I could understand the change. People were going about their daily business as if nothing drastic happened. That was how society worked.
Most or almost all of the population don't know each other on a personal level. If something should befall a person, those closest around the person would either morn the loss or help the person through the crisis. I was sure the popular and influential people will be morning, but most of those mourning will get over it within a short time. Eventually, everyone will get over that person's death and move on with their lives. However, there were those few who can never get over the loss.
With my darker half gone, I tried to move on with my life. I wanted to start all over again, but people remember. They remembered what Marik did to them. If those people happened to be duelists, then they were most likely used by him to gain rare cards or had cards stolen. Since I happened to carry a resemblance to him, many people pointed their fingers at me. I didn't do anything. It was the other me, but no one believed me, except for Yugi, Yami, and Ryou. Don't know about Bakura.
For some reason, I had this feeling my darker half was watching over me. Don't ask.
How was I going to break the news to her. I could waltz up to her and show her I was alive. Isis most likely would faint or barrage me with several questions. In either case, those were not the responses I would like. Frowning, I caught the attention of my companion. Speaking of which, maybe he could prepare her for the shock of her life.
"Hey Yami," I spoke softly.
Not even turning around, Yami replied. "What is it?" He didn't sound annoyed so I wasn't bothering him.
"I was wondering if you could warn her before I make my entrance. The last thing I want her to do is faint."
Yami chuckled a low one. "I understand. No problem, I will warn her, though it may not be necessary if she is wearing her millennium item."
That reminded me. I thought she handed her item before I did. Ryou and Shadi were the only ones who were able to keep their millennium items. The millennium ring kept returning to Ryou despite how many times he gave it to Yami so the pharaoh allowed him to keep it. Of course, Shadi required his two items to continue his duty.
"How does Isis have her millennium tauk?"
A long pause ensued before Yami replied. "After you jumped, I allowed Isis to have the millennium tauk for the duration of the search. As the search dragged on, I found her looking back into the past, when the two of you were alive. I couldn't take it away from her."
"What about the rod?" We reached the crosswalk and were waiting for the signal to turn white.
A few other people waited with us as this was the intersection of two main streets. The lady dressed in a business suit chatted on her cell phone about their recent deals and trades. She didn't look too happy about the results. An elderly man was seated in one of those mechanical wheel chairs. A young man kept looking at his watch and the crosswalk signal. Apparently he was late for something. As to what it was, I had no clue. It could be work, school, or an appointment.
"You still want it after what you've been through?" In response to his question, I shook my head. "After some consideration, I had placed it under tight security. Only a select few have access to it including me. Kaiba, Isis, and Shadi make up the others."
Smiling, I let out a breath of relief. That mean no one used the rod in my absence or at least I'd like to think so. Since Yami and the others attended the funeral, then they couldn't have known.
The people around us were too preoccupied to notice our conversation. Besides, they won't know what we were discussing. Anyways, the crosswalk signal turned white, allowing us to walk across the street without getting run over. At least, the more sensible drivers knew it was our turn.
The silence was getting on my nerves. It wasn't like there weren't sounds around us. I just wanted someone to talk to. I don't know if I was fortunate or unfortunate to have the former pharaoh as my only company. It was better than nothing. We ended talking about duel monsters and strategies. The old spirit had a few good moves.
I glanced up at our apartment complex as if I expected to be attacked. Nope, no such luck. This was it. Isis will find out sooner or later, but I would rather tell her myself than to have her see me through that necklace of hers.
Walking to the entry, I dialed in the security code, which surprisingly was accepted. The familiar click resounded and the door was unlocked. The two of us entered the edifice after we opened the door.
A few people were milling around the first floor, talking and waiting for someone. However, I wasn't listening on their conversation. It looked like some college girls. They giggled as we passed by them. One even pointed to the former pharaoh and whispered something to her friends.
I rolled my eyes at their antics even though they couldn't see me doing it. Ignoring them, we headed straight towards the elevator. Yes, our apartment complex had one as it was five stories high. Yami inspected the panel with the buttons. I was about to move him aside and press the up button when his hand reached over to press it. Meanwhile, a few more people entered the building.
Those people went straight towards the elevator too. Out of all of them, one stood out. Don't call her fat or be prepared for cruel and unusual punishment. I still thought she was fat even if she said she was heavy set. She tended to be cranky and on a constant PMS, but she was fair. Unlike some apartment owners, she didn't throw out her tenants for petty reasons. She gave them a few chances to redeem themselves before she threw them out. So far only a small handful received that treatment.
A pair of twins was with her. They were her nephews. I knew, because I have seen them around here every now and then. The older one made Seto Kaiba look like Ryou. Yeah, I thought no one could be colder than the living ice cube. Okay, maybe I was over exaggerating. The only person he cared for was his twin brother. Speaking of which, his brother was friendly and outgoing. You know, it reminded me of my relationship with my darker half. Okay, that was a bad example. It was more like Ryou and his yami, Bakura.
Back to the task at hand, the elevator opened and we boarded it. The mechanical device groaned under the weight, but it was designed to carry heavy loads. There was no way people can drag a large sofa up four flights of stairs. I pressed the button for the third floor and the younger of the twins pressed the fifth button. Yeah, the land lady lived on the top floor. I don't know why, and I wasn't going to risk asking her.
The generator then started and the elevator cabin began its ascent to the third floor. It moved slower than usual, because of the strain being placed on it. Like I said, that lady was fat. Not that I'd tell her in front of her face. If I had friends, I wouldn't mind them being overweight. At least I HAVE friends.
"What is it?" Yami's deep voice sounded. I thought he was asking me something when another voice spoke softly.
"I was wondering if you're Yugi," the younger of the twins inquired with hopeful blue eyes. The former pharaoh nodded to answer his question. You wouldn't believe how many people kept asking Yami if he was Yugi. "I started building a dueling deck, a spellcaster and a dragon one. What ratio of traps, magic, and monster cards would you recommend?"
Hey, that was actually a good question. I thought he'd ask something to degree of his favorite color, favorite duel monster, or something trivial.
"Hm, I'd recommend having your deck half monsters," Yami answered thoughtfully. He tapped his chin a few times. "It depends on your strategy, but I suggest having a quarter trap cards unless you do not possess any good ones. Your magic cards should support the type of monsters you have. Your monsters also should complement each other. High level duel monsters are good, but you need sacrifices for them. It would be better to have more level one to four monsters and a few five to eight."
"Thanks," he chirped and gave Yami a thankful smile. "My favorite duel monster is the Dark Magician. I have two of him."
Yami raised a brow, but nonetheless didn't pursue the topic. He would have responded, but the door opened to our floor. Bidding the polite twin, Yami exited the elevator with me not far behind him.
After making sure the door was closed, I turned to my companion. "That was our land lady and her nephews. I think the older one is actually related to Kaiba. Did you see the way he looked at us and kept his eye on his brother?"
"You're telling me," Yami said with humor. "The one who spoke with me was nice. I think one of these days; I may have to duel against him in a tournament."
"Yeah," I agreed with him. I needed some sort of distraction and this small talk was working for now. "They're always like that. The large one normally is uptight. I wonder what happened to her. Maybe it's because she had her nephews with her."
The former pharaoh shrugged his shoulder. "You never can tell with people. I can't even understand some of my closest friends, though I don't think I want to with one of them."
I smirked at his comment as I knew which of those friends he was referring to. No, it wasn't Tea, the annoying girl. It was the bottomless pit of a dueler.
Well, here we were standing in front of my door or at least the door to my former apartment. Was it still my home? Oh whatever. Let's just go inside.
Yami knocked on the door while I stayed out of view. His crimson eyes flickered to me before he looked straight at Isis. Wow, I didn't know she could answer the door that quickly. "Hello, Isis."
"Pharaoh, what brings you to my place?" She inquired.
Isis didn't look that well. She must have been crying last night and overslept, because her hair wasn't brushed. In fact, she was still wearing her night time apparel. Since I was attempting to keep out of view, I couldn't see her eyes, but I bet they were red.
"I came here to inform you." Yami waved to me, signaling for me to come over. "There's someone who would like to meet you."
A few steps took me right in front of my older sister.
Wingzero: I have nothing against overweight people. Erm, I just needed someone other than the stereotype apartment owner.
DS: Don't look at me and hey, why am I not in this fic?
Wingzero: rolls eyes Cause I don't want you to be.
DS: Meanie!!
Goku (Saiyuki): Hey, that's my line!!!
THWACK! THWACK! THWACK!
Sanzo: has an anime vein and holding his harisen
DS: Itai yo! That really hurts! glares at Sanzo
Wingzero: Do it again!
DS: HEY!!! WHO'S SIDE ARE YOU ON???
Disclaimer: No own, except the extra OCs (ie the pedestrians, the college girls, the twins, & the land lady).
Now the first order of business was to get something to eat. What? I'd like to see you go for weeks without eating and then change into a powerful duel monster. Uh, scratch that. You most likely won't be experiencing this. In any case, I was extremely hungry. I caught Yami giving me an amused look.
"What?" I asked, completely exasperated.
"You're beginning to sound like Joey," Yami commented, causing me to blanch. I do not act like Joey, not at all!
My violet eyes narrowed. "You're joking, right Yami?"
"You can take it however you like want," was all his reply. He turned to leave the room. "Are you coming or not?"
I was pissed off by the former pharaoh, but the prospect of me being fed made me forget. "I'm coming. Hold your camels."
"Isn't it supposed to be horses?" Yami raised a brow at my version of an old saying, surprising me that he actually knew it.
Needless to say, I was amused. "Yes, it may be, but we're from Egypt, duh. We use camels not horses. How could you forget?"
Crimson eyes rolled. He made his way out of the room with me trailing not far behind. Yugi's house was directly above the game shop so we were standing on the second story. Yeah, you'd probably figured that out by now.
"I suppose you know how to cook?" Yami inquired warily. He made his way to the kitchen with me not knowing which way it was. Hey, this was my first time at Yugi's place.
Since Isis sometimes spent more time doing her research or organizing her archaeological findings, I had to learn how to cook or order out. Take out food was expensive so that option was out, because I don't want to get a job.
"You should be fortunate," I smirked as we entered the kitchen. My companion seemed to be nervous about being in there. "If I wanted to eat, I had to learn how to cook. Fast food is way too expensive and I didn't want to get a job."
"Good because I don't..."
"Know how to use any of these machines without proper supervision," I completed his statement with humor.
His response was a snort. "That wasn't necessary."
"But it was so amusing," I laughed, much to the annoyance of the spirit. "Besides, you didn't almost burn the house down like Bakura."
Suddenly I heard a crash behind me. I turned around to find Yami leaning against the counter and laughing very hard. I'd never thought I'd see the former pharaoh acting like this. Moments later, he managed to compose himself.
"You don't say?" Yami gasped. "At least, I learned how to use the microwave. You shouldn't put anything metal in there. " His ruby red eyes held amusement.
"No, Ryou caught him and I don't know how he did it, but he trained the tomb robber to use the kitchen appliances though I doubt it helped," I held back my laughter. "However, I would suggest not bringing it up in his presence or he may decided to get revenge."
"Noted," the former pharaoh acknowledged.
Saunter to the fridge, I poked my head into it and searched for a few things. They ought to have some as they were common, but I doubt they cook from scratch.
"Do you have any suggestions?"
Yami seemed to be thoughtful for a moment before he shrugged his shoulders. "Not really."
I grumbled, "Some help you are." Why not? I grabbed the carton of eggs and a few vegetables. Placing them on the counter, I wondered what type of meat I should use. Then again, the eggs should be enough. That was when I had a sudden inspiration. Hopefully, they had some.
"You're not planning on taking over the world?" Yami inquired with a suspicious voice.
I peered over the fridge door and smirked. "That was Marik's ambition. Mine is to take over this kitchen!" I chuckled at my companion's groan. Yeah, it was a lame joke, so sue me. On second thought don't or all you'd be getting were my library fines.
Returning my attention to my task at hand, I shuffled the items around. Now where would they keep it? The jars made clinking sounds as they were moved around, and a few heavy items had thump sounds.
"What are you looking for?" A deep voice sounded.
"Salsa," I replied, still searching for the elusive sauce. "Would you mind washing the vegetables while I search?"
"I don't mind though you're searching in the wrong place." This caused me to raise a brow. "It's in one of the cabinets." Oh, so now he tells me.
Inwardly cursing I padded over to the nearest cabinet and opened it to reveal the salsa jar staring directly at me. Why didn't he tell me this before I went through all this trouble? I ran my hand through my blonde locks. Then I picked up the tomato product and placed it with the other ingredients.
Yami had a smirk plastered on his face as he washed the produce. Well at least he knew how to use the faucet. Maybe I could teach him how to use the microwave next. While he was taking care of the vegetables, I grabbed a large bowl and cracked half a dozen eggs before dumping the contents of the eggs in, minus the shells. Once I whipped the eggs, I prepped the pan. Yami was finished.
"Next is chopping these into small pieces," I informed the tri-color haired midget. Okay so I still liked making fun of him, and no, don't sue me! Selecting a couple of sharp knives, I handed one of them over to Yami. Hopefully, he had some experience with these. I was sure he at least handled short blades as weapons. "You do know how to use this."
Yami now sported a mock scowl on his face. "Yugi has been teaching me. I know what I'm doing." He pulled out a peeler before using it on the carrots.
Well, I'll be. He actually knew something. I did the bell peppers. Soon enough, the vegetables were cut and I was cooking the omelets. I didn't trust the spirit to handle this part, even if he said Yugi taught him how. Instead I had him set up the table.
Once I finished cooking, Yami was hesitant on trying my concoction. He knew I didn't poison them as he was there the entire time. It couldn't be food poisoning. If it was the case, it wasn't my fault!
"Come on," I sighed in exasperation. I had finished a third of my portion. He was being stubborn yet again. Honestly, I wasn't in the revenge thing unless you counted pranks.
The former pharaoh eyed his plate before hesitantly cutting a small piece. Bah, he wasn't going to taste it that way. Well, it certainly was an improvement. I turned away so he wouldn't feel uncomfortable. "So how is it?"
"It's not bad," Yami replied. I could tell he wasn't lying or trying to be sarcastic. "Although I can't say it's the best."
Turning around, I showed I wasn't mad at his comment. "Yeah, I'm not a professional chef like the ones you had back in Egypt. Nor do I ever want to be."
"Me either," Yami agreed without his mouth full. "You don't want to know what they used. On second thought, I don't want to also."
I chuckled at that thought. Some things were better left unsaid. Anyways, we talked about what happened while I was gone. The others first went on a rescue mission. Later on, it changed to a body recovery. The body search ceased three weeks later. I wasn't surprised they had given up on locating it. The ocean was one large place and for all we know, sharks could have gotten to it. Ew. Now the surprising part was Kaiba. He funded the entire rescue operation. The others were surprised as well. You'd think he didn't want any part o fit. Maybe he dated my sister or something.
"Where's Bakura?"
"He's normally in his soul room brooding over something or annoying Ryou," Yami replied with a sigh. We finished washing the dishes and were deciding what to do.
Obviously, I didn't want to attend school. Yeah, no tests for me. You know, it might be worth it to see their faces when their supposedly dead classmate returned from the grave. Of course, they were already afraid of me to begin with. It may end up being more disastrous. Eh, better scratch that idea. Besides, Isis might wring my neck for not telling her first.
"Speaking of which, you know where my sister is?" I inquired, leaning back on the sofa. We thought about heading to the arcade, but games usually cost money. The other duelist would most likely be either at school or at work so that was also out of the question. I would think my sister was at work or something.
Thinking it over, Yami replied, "She's probably at home. Her boss and coworkers thought she should take time off after your funeral to 'adjust' as they say."
"Then that's where we're headed first," I chirped while jumping up on the sofa. We were the only family unless you counted Rishid, but he was an adopted big brother to the both of us.
Crimson eyes blinked with confusion until realization dawned on him. He picked himself up from the other end of the sofa and sauntered over to the stairs. "Let's take our leave, shall we?"
Nodding my head, I sprang from my position. It was good to see her even if she was annoying. Since Yami didn't drive, it will have to be by foot. Besides, both of us could use the exercise and don't even think of calling me fat.
Solomon or Grandpa was working in the game shop. Since it was a school day and morning, business was slow. No doubt, Duke had the same situation with his store. That was not the point. We descended the stairs with Yami taking the lead. No need to give the old guy a heart attack.
"Yami, I didn't know you stayed behind," Solomon called out to the former pharaoh. "I thought you were with Yugi at school, keeping an eye on him." There was a moment of silence. Oh yeah, I was behind the door so I can't see either of the two and they can't see me. "He was acting strange this morning. I'm glad he isn't sulking, but this change is sudden, especially after yesterday."
"Things have changed," Yami's deep voice sounded. Was that my cue to appear or should I have been there already? What the heck?
Stepping out, I found a very surprised Solomon. He appeared to be on the verge of fainting or something. His left hand rested against the counter for support while his right hand covered his heart. Violet eyes were wide as they took in the situation.
"How is this possible?"
"Don't look at me," I stated, holding up my hands defensively. "All I remember was jumping and then ending up in Yugi's deck as a duel monster."
"The souls of the three god cards were separated from their bodies." Yami explained in a serious but low tone as if someone was trying to eavesdrop on our conversation. "Malik's soul is one of them. We have yet to find the other two."
"Which one is he?" Solomon inquired, having come off his initial shock.
A vein appeared on my temple. "You know I'm right here."
Solomon gave a nervous laugh and apologized.
"Winged Dragon of Ra, That's what I am."
"Which leaves Obelisk and Sylfer," Solomon finished off. We both nodded our heads in response.
Taking a seat on the chair, I watched the other two talk while interjecting something here and there. It seemed Solomon was used to the idea of having the dark spirit around.
"Kaiba has Obelisk," Yami bluntly pointed out. He too had taken a seat. "I doubt he is going to give it up any time soon though I know he will keep it safely guarded until the need arises."
"Does anyone know about this?"
The pharaoh shook his head. "My duel monsters are the only ones and I have given them strict orders not to tell anyone. They are not to discuss the matter."
"Try telling that to your Dark Magician Girl," I sighed out loud. She was a nice kid, but she can be dense at times.
"I have Dark Magician, Magician of Black Chaos, and Mystical Elf keeping a close eye on her," Yami answered me, while glancing around for any customers, "although Celtic Guardian and Dark Luster Soldier aren't exactly happy about my orders." I swore I saw an amused glint in his eyes. Dark Magician and Celtic Guardian were an item, which brought me to wonder why would the Dark Luster Soldier be upset. It wasn't exactly dating the other magician, was he?
"And the others?" Solomon spoke up, highly nervous.
Yami shook his head. "We didn't have a chance to tell them as we found out only last night, though I'm hesitant on telling them. Joey, Tristan, Tea, Mai, Duke, and Serenity are in no way connected to the shadow realm." Crimson eyes closed wearily. "I do not wish them to be involved in any way for they may be injured or worse even killed."
The elder nodded his head. He too wanted to spare the group any more pain than necessary. "Speaking of the others, do they know?" His violet eyes moved in my direction.
In response Yami shook his head again. "Out of them, only Yugi knows, but I'm guessing half the school will know by the time they're let out. I know Yugi would not let anyone know about the duel monster aspect. In any case, we're on our way to Isis' place to tell her the good news in person, though I'm not sure we need to." Oh? "She has the millennium tauk so she might have seen it."
"Either way, I still want to talk to her," I pointed out. After what I put her through, she deserved to know. Something told me she deserved better than this. This was my mess, but she accepted her millennium item.
"I should let you go then," Solomon stepped towards the unopened packages. "Family is important. She loves you. You know that?"
I nodded my head and stood up. It was time to go. As I was turning to leave, a hand stopped me. I whirled around to face the owner of the offending hand when a pair of sunglasses was handed to me.
"So you're not recognized before we reach Isis."
In case you haven't forgotten, you bring more attention to us than me, oh duel monsters champion." Still I accepted the pair of sunglasses without any further complaints.
"True, Yugi and I do share a rather unique hairstyle." He too wore a pair of sunglasses, not that it would do him any good. If he were to shave his head or get a wig, then he had a better chance of blending into the crowd.
Placing the shades on, I smirked. We shoved off. My place wasn't far from here. Strange, here we were living close to the Mutou residence yet we have not stopped by at all. Perhaps, it was due to our hectic schedules and we either had work or school. Okay, I don't go to school, but that didn't mean I had spare time. With my darker half plotting to steal the pharaoh's power, it left me very much occupied... Trying not to become insane as he was.
Outside, I found things to be pretty much the same. After all, it had only been a month or around that time since the incident. If it was a decade, I could understand the change. People were going about their daily business as if nothing drastic happened. That was how society worked.
Most or almost all of the population don't know each other on a personal level. If something should befall a person, those closest around the person would either morn the loss or help the person through the crisis. I was sure the popular and influential people will be morning, but most of those mourning will get over it within a short time. Eventually, everyone will get over that person's death and move on with their lives. However, there were those few who can never get over the loss.
With my darker half gone, I tried to move on with my life. I wanted to start all over again, but people remember. They remembered what Marik did to them. If those people happened to be duelists, then they were most likely used by him to gain rare cards or had cards stolen. Since I happened to carry a resemblance to him, many people pointed their fingers at me. I didn't do anything. It was the other me, but no one believed me, except for Yugi, Yami, and Ryou. Don't know about Bakura.
For some reason, I had this feeling my darker half was watching over me. Don't ask.
How was I going to break the news to her. I could waltz up to her and show her I was alive. Isis most likely would faint or barrage me with several questions. In either case, those were not the responses I would like. Frowning, I caught the attention of my companion. Speaking of which, maybe he could prepare her for the shock of her life.
"Hey Yami," I spoke softly.
Not even turning around, Yami replied. "What is it?" He didn't sound annoyed so I wasn't bothering him.
"I was wondering if you could warn her before I make my entrance. The last thing I want her to do is faint."
Yami chuckled a low one. "I understand. No problem, I will warn her, though it may not be necessary if she is wearing her millennium item."
That reminded me. I thought she handed her item before I did. Ryou and Shadi were the only ones who were able to keep their millennium items. The millennium ring kept returning to Ryou despite how many times he gave it to Yami so the pharaoh allowed him to keep it. Of course, Shadi required his two items to continue his duty.
"How does Isis have her millennium tauk?"
A long pause ensued before Yami replied. "After you jumped, I allowed Isis to have the millennium tauk for the duration of the search. As the search dragged on, I found her looking back into the past, when the two of you were alive. I couldn't take it away from her."
"What about the rod?" We reached the crosswalk and were waiting for the signal to turn white.
A few other people waited with us as this was the intersection of two main streets. The lady dressed in a business suit chatted on her cell phone about their recent deals and trades. She didn't look too happy about the results. An elderly man was seated in one of those mechanical wheel chairs. A young man kept looking at his watch and the crosswalk signal. Apparently he was late for something. As to what it was, I had no clue. It could be work, school, or an appointment.
"You still want it after what you've been through?" In response to his question, I shook my head. "After some consideration, I had placed it under tight security. Only a select few have access to it including me. Kaiba, Isis, and Shadi make up the others."
Smiling, I let out a breath of relief. That mean no one used the rod in my absence or at least I'd like to think so. Since Yami and the others attended the funeral, then they couldn't have known.
The people around us were too preoccupied to notice our conversation. Besides, they won't know what we were discussing. Anyways, the crosswalk signal turned white, allowing us to walk across the street without getting run over. At least, the more sensible drivers knew it was our turn.
The silence was getting on my nerves. It wasn't like there weren't sounds around us. I just wanted someone to talk to. I don't know if I was fortunate or unfortunate to have the former pharaoh as my only company. It was better than nothing. We ended talking about duel monsters and strategies. The old spirit had a few good moves.
I glanced up at our apartment complex as if I expected to be attacked. Nope, no such luck. This was it. Isis will find out sooner or later, but I would rather tell her myself than to have her see me through that necklace of hers.
Walking to the entry, I dialed in the security code, which surprisingly was accepted. The familiar click resounded and the door was unlocked. The two of us entered the edifice after we opened the door.
A few people were milling around the first floor, talking and waiting for someone. However, I wasn't listening on their conversation. It looked like some college girls. They giggled as we passed by them. One even pointed to the former pharaoh and whispered something to her friends.
I rolled my eyes at their antics even though they couldn't see me doing it. Ignoring them, we headed straight towards the elevator. Yes, our apartment complex had one as it was five stories high. Yami inspected the panel with the buttons. I was about to move him aside and press the up button when his hand reached over to press it. Meanwhile, a few more people entered the building.
Those people went straight towards the elevator too. Out of all of them, one stood out. Don't call her fat or be prepared for cruel and unusual punishment. I still thought she was fat even if she said she was heavy set. She tended to be cranky and on a constant PMS, but she was fair. Unlike some apartment owners, she didn't throw out her tenants for petty reasons. She gave them a few chances to redeem themselves before she threw them out. So far only a small handful received that treatment.
A pair of twins was with her. They were her nephews. I knew, because I have seen them around here every now and then. The older one made Seto Kaiba look like Ryou. Yeah, I thought no one could be colder than the living ice cube. Okay, maybe I was over exaggerating. The only person he cared for was his twin brother. Speaking of which, his brother was friendly and outgoing. You know, it reminded me of my relationship with my darker half. Okay, that was a bad example. It was more like Ryou and his yami, Bakura.
Back to the task at hand, the elevator opened and we boarded it. The mechanical device groaned under the weight, but it was designed to carry heavy loads. There was no way people can drag a large sofa up four flights of stairs. I pressed the button for the third floor and the younger of the twins pressed the fifth button. Yeah, the land lady lived on the top floor. I don't know why, and I wasn't going to risk asking her.
The generator then started and the elevator cabin began its ascent to the third floor. It moved slower than usual, because of the strain being placed on it. Like I said, that lady was fat. Not that I'd tell her in front of her face. If I had friends, I wouldn't mind them being overweight. At least I HAVE friends.
"What is it?" Yami's deep voice sounded. I thought he was asking me something when another voice spoke softly.
"I was wondering if you're Yugi," the younger of the twins inquired with hopeful blue eyes. The former pharaoh nodded to answer his question. You wouldn't believe how many people kept asking Yami if he was Yugi. "I started building a dueling deck, a spellcaster and a dragon one. What ratio of traps, magic, and monster cards would you recommend?"
Hey, that was actually a good question. I thought he'd ask something to degree of his favorite color, favorite duel monster, or something trivial.
"Hm, I'd recommend having your deck half monsters," Yami answered thoughtfully. He tapped his chin a few times. "It depends on your strategy, but I suggest having a quarter trap cards unless you do not possess any good ones. Your magic cards should support the type of monsters you have. Your monsters also should complement each other. High level duel monsters are good, but you need sacrifices for them. It would be better to have more level one to four monsters and a few five to eight."
"Thanks," he chirped and gave Yami a thankful smile. "My favorite duel monster is the Dark Magician. I have two of him."
Yami raised a brow, but nonetheless didn't pursue the topic. He would have responded, but the door opened to our floor. Bidding the polite twin, Yami exited the elevator with me not far behind him.
After making sure the door was closed, I turned to my companion. "That was our land lady and her nephews. I think the older one is actually related to Kaiba. Did you see the way he looked at us and kept his eye on his brother?"
"You're telling me," Yami said with humor. "The one who spoke with me was nice. I think one of these days; I may have to duel against him in a tournament."
"Yeah," I agreed with him. I needed some sort of distraction and this small talk was working for now. "They're always like that. The large one normally is uptight. I wonder what happened to her. Maybe it's because she had her nephews with her."
The former pharaoh shrugged his shoulder. "You never can tell with people. I can't even understand some of my closest friends, though I don't think I want to with one of them."
I smirked at his comment as I knew which of those friends he was referring to. No, it wasn't Tea, the annoying girl. It was the bottomless pit of a dueler.
Well, here we were standing in front of my door or at least the door to my former apartment. Was it still my home? Oh whatever. Let's just go inside.
Yami knocked on the door while I stayed out of view. His crimson eyes flickered to me before he looked straight at Isis. Wow, I didn't know she could answer the door that quickly. "Hello, Isis."
"Pharaoh, what brings you to my place?" She inquired.
Isis didn't look that well. She must have been crying last night and overslept, because her hair wasn't brushed. In fact, she was still wearing her night time apparel. Since I was attempting to keep out of view, I couldn't see her eyes, but I bet they were red.
"I came here to inform you." Yami waved to me, signaling for me to come over. "There's someone who would like to meet you."
A few steps took me right in front of my older sister.
Wingzero: I have nothing against overweight people. Erm, I just needed someone other than the stereotype apartment owner.