Tornado: hiya peeps. Thankx to all the people who reviewed and now on with the fic
Sclera's POV>
Sunday had come upon me fast. The week was uneventful besides the peculiar increase of a certain blue-eyed-boy's conversation level. He was a bit more open, actually saying "hi" to me in passing and answering any questions I had in any of my lessons. Although he was more prone to accept me, my companions remained in his ill regards. Then again I suppose that will never change.
I sat quietly in the dining room, working on the payroll for my employees. I did this myself to disabuse the constant error, which my last accountant had done. I momentarily looked out the massive window, whose curtains were spread to shed light on the table. The scene before me seemed as though it was from spring, but one step into the bitter winds could change one's opinion. Automatically, my eyes were drawn to an impressive tower jutting into the sky's massive domain. "KC" was the insignia that it bore, but I had already known that.
A small knock came at the door, and I rose to answer. Henry took the day off to "enjoy the wonders of winter." I had translated that to he had found a nice lady and was "warming" himself. I would never say these things to him. He liked to think that I was oblivious to his personal life.
I cautiously opened the door to find the almost cold, violet eyes of Mai Valentine staring back at me. I resisted the impulse to jump back. She managed a small smile, which I reluctantly returned.
"Hey guys, c'mon in," I welcomed warmly.
Mai entered appraising the décor of the room. Tea was not far behind. She had a warmer look about her than my cousin. We exchanged mild compliments about the interior of my sky haven.
"Lera, do you mind if I use the bathroom before we go?" Tea asked.
"Sure down the hall, second door on the left."
She muttered her thanks before departing. Mai was still evaluating the setting. I said nothing, giving the awkward silence the victory. She turned to me with a slightly superior expression.
"Nice place, but I would expect no less from you," she stated. "You always did act just like Aunt Gloria."
"Mai…" I began, but she cut me off.
"Yugi hasn't been the same since you left, y'know. He's been very shy, and he has a major problem with Kaiba, who, by the way, is the same Seto you used to pal around with in Fox Run. He's changed a lot too."
"I know who Kaiba is, Mai, and I know how Yugi is. Look, you're my cousin, and you said that if I ever needed anything just to let you know. Right now I need you not to tell anyone about this. I'll tell you everything you want to know in good time. I just need you to keep this a secret," I explained.
"I will," she answered. "Under one circumstance: you answer one question. Does anyone know who you are?"
"Yes, Bakura, but no one else."
"Not even Kaiba?"
"Especially not Kaiba. He would only make matters worse. Why? Were you expecting me to say 'yes'?"
"There's a rumor circulating that you and Kaiba are a couple. Before you flip out, let me tell you where I heard it. Alicia Spinet said that Kaiba liked you, and one of her friends said that she heard the two of you were going out. When I heard it I figured it was true because even I figured out who you were, and God-only-knows how close you and Kaiba used to be. Ok, now my curiosity is satisfied, and I won't mention this to anyone. You have my word."
"Thanks, Mai, because right now I could use a few friends."
Seto's POV>
My quest to rediscover my old self was progressing quite well. I had become more open to Sclera Marshal. This in itself was an extreme achievement. Yesterday I spent all of my time at Kaiba Corps, preparing for the grand opening of Kaiba Land, which would occur next Saturday. I decided to take Sunday off and spend it with Mokuba, who insisted that we go shopping. I gave into his wishes. Not only was it an excuse to spend time with him, but it was also an excuse to add a little variety to my wardrobe.
I agreed to drive, for it had been a long time since my 1967 Shelby Mustang had stretched its legs. I can't remember a time when my brother was happier than the times he spent in the front seat of that car. Perhaps I should include myself in the last statement as well. I too was a bit of a gear-head.
"I love this car!" Mokuba exclaimed as we pulled out of the garage.
"I love it more," I challenged.
"Nuh-uh!" he cried.
"Yeah-huh." I returned.
This argument went on for the better part of five minutes. Finally, I called it a draw. He agreed as he selected one of my CD's to put in the portable boom-box system that rested in the back seat. My only problem with this car was the sound system, which consisted of a radio that had three channels, none of which satisfied my musical needs.
Despite common lore, I am addicted to music. My collection of CD's is well over 200 and has yet to cease its growth. I have a variety, a variety of rock that is, and I don't mean classic or soft. Heavy metal, alternative, punk are my preferences. The rest are alright.
My brother decided to play one of my favorites: 3 Days Grace. It was as though my soul was invaded by the lyrics. Somewhere between the first verse and the chorus, I started to sing. Many had dubbed my "melodic" voice to be perfect for rock and roll, but I myself prided my skills as a guitarist. With the little free time I had, which was usually in the dead of night, I practiced my self-taught skill. Only Mokuba knew of my late-night love, and I intended to keep it that way.
"Seto?" Mokuba asked suddenly, turning down the music. "What's up with you? You've been acting a lot differently this week. I mean, this is your first day off since like forever."
"I had an epiphany one day, realizing what I've become. I'm trying to rediscover the old self that I had lost. I'm kind of glad that you insisted on doing this today because it gives me an excuse to broaden my wardrobe and perhaps update other things in the process."
I flashed him a demon grin, which he returned willingly. It had been a long time since I had seen my brother this happy. Nearly three years to exact. He hasn't been the same since Lera left. Each day he becomes a little more like myself and a little less like her, but in dire times, her spirit reflects in his stormy eyes. It's like she was the angel keeping him from the demon like his brother. Now that the angel's gone, he has nowhere else to turn. "In the absence of light, darkness prevails."
Mokuba's POV>
I was happy that my brother was finding his alter ego once again. Seto used to be a punk kid, who never took "no" for an answer. Although most people thought that he was a problem child, he always did anything for his family, especially Dad.
Seto took over the household after Mom died. Though I never knew her personally, Seto told me lots of stories. Lera used to speak of her as well. From the stories, Mom seemed to encourage Seto's and Lera's behavior. By that I mean she all but instructed them to do whatever they wanted whenever they wanted.
After Dad died though, he lost himself. He began to let Gozaburo's inhumane theories and actions control him. Lera and I watched as the punk faded and the cold, assholic businessman took over. Just as Lera kept me sane, she moderated the changes in my brother, but now that Seto doesn't know her, he is consumed by the teachings.
Sclera's POV>
We'd been driving for about ten minutes before we reached the parking lot of Regal Impressions. I was surprised to find it "busy", at least for a Sunday. Mai and Tea got out of the car; each examining the other cars in the lot. Tea gawked at a nearby Ferrari, but Mai and simply dismissed the extravagant display. Mai explained that it was no nicer to handle than her Corvette.
The entrance to the building was even more impressive than the objects outside. Decorative glass statues towered above the marble floor. Gold was inlayed between each block, and it coated the banisters on the stairs and balcony. A very large, elegant chandelier protruded from the ceiling like a stalactite. Hundreds of dress in every style and color were on display, and the counter housed a long, glass display case containing jewelry.
"This place is unreal," Tea whispered. "It's like it's from a fairy tale."
"Ms. Marshal!" a thick, Italian voice called from someplace up above.
I smiled gently as the man darted down from the balcony. He came to a attention in front of me, giving me an opportunity to appraise him. He was definitely in his mid-30's, but his black hair bore no salt or pepper sprinkled anywhere. His brown eyes were brightly contrasted with his white Armani suit.
"Antonio!" I greeted warmly. "You look fabulous. I love the wintry look: white on blue. It suits."
"Yes, well we all need some light, don't we? Ah, who are these lovely ladies"
I introduced the man to the two girls. After the introduction, he recognized Mai. They continued to make idle chitchat as Tea and I continued admiring the interior. I glimpsed a look of awe in her face. Though the glass, marble, and gold were impressive, the car aroused greater admiration.
"So, what exactly are you ladies looking for?" Antonio inquired.
"Something novel yet classic. Something dark and shiny, and something purple," Mai stated.
I waited as he scribbled down Mai's request, and then nodded to Tea, saying she could place her order.
"I'd like something short, bright, form-fitting, and strapless."
"You know me, Antonio," I stated. "Surprise me."
He gave me his Cheshire cat smile before scampering off. Mai was beginning to look at the display dresses with Tea. I had my eyes on a cute sales clerk, who kept looking my way. He finally turned his full attention to the customer. I sighed gently. Antonio came back soon after.
"Now, before we can find the perfect dress, you must get measured and eliminate any styles that you don't like. Ladies will you follow me please."
He led us upstairs to the fitting rooms. Though the attention to the atmosphere was not to the extent of the main floor, the still left an impression. The floor was still made of marble, and each stall was composed of stainless steel and housed a platform mirror, which showed all sides. There was a woman trying on what appeared to be a wedding gown.
"You sell just about anything formal in here, right?" I asked.
"If it is beautiful and can be worn, then we probably have it in here. Now, the two of you can step into the last two stalls. The tailors will be with you shortly. Ms. Marshal, I am personally going to find the perfect dress for you, but first I must know the type of impression you want to make. Do you to impress the President of the United States or Seto Kaiba?"
"Seto Kaiba," I replied. "Make it cold, stately, and eye-catching."
"Your wish is my command. Dark or light?"
"Light."
"Going solo, eh? Well, I'll make it so that we change that."
I sighed as he disappeared. I love the guy, but sometimes it's just scary how well he can read me. Antonio is a born people-person. I think that's what made this place successful. He was personable, yet he was a businessman. I guess that is why him and I get along.
He returned, looking deeply troubled. He got the other two browsing through the computer's catalog. Finally, he insisted that I be measured once again. I protested, but reluctantly gave in to his whishes.
"Ms. Marshal, I could not find a dress to suit you, but I do have one on the drawing board."
"Show me something similar, and I'll see if I like it."
Antonio disappeared, stopping to get the others preferences as well. They joined me outside of the stall, chatting about the dresses they had selected as potentials. He was gone for about fifteen minutes, but he returned with a rack of dresses. He indicated to each of us which section was our own, explaining to me that my section was composed of dresses that inspired his drawing board creation. I discharged my thanks before diving into the pile.
The first dress was slim, fairly simple, and had a low cut back. It was a soft yet vibrant gold with matching hued gemstones forming the straps. I didn't like the low cut back or the fact that it was several inches from the floor. He smiled, causing me to suspect that he had concluded before my output that I would not be satisfied with those particular aspects.
The second dress was slightly similar to the first yet completely opposite. An icy cerulean blue replaced the warm gold, reminding me of the object of my affection's eyes. The neck line was closely related to a racing style jacket with a strap going all the way around my neck and connecting to the back, which was solid up to the back of my neck. The back was a little too high and the ties, which ran the length of my spine, weren't becoming for my purposes either. I informed him that I liked the color and the sheer sleeves that ran from the shoulder to the elbow and finally connected at the middle finger and the slit that ran to my mid-thigh.
The final dress was black and crimson. It puffed out at the waist, just like an evening gown was fabled to do. However, this was not what I wanted to be seen in at Frost King. The only thing that I like about was the "belt", which was constructed of fabric and reminded me of an abstract stained glass window.
I changed back into my black jeans and shadow silk shirt before joining the girls once more. Both were holding a dress, which had no similarities other than the fact that they were dresses. Mai's dress was a long, slender spaghetti strap. A tall slit ran along the majority of the lower half of the leg, and the royal purple base glittered with diamonds. Tea's dress was short, strapless, form-hugging and bright pink. The two were night and day when placed next to each other.
The Italian came to the front desk, checking the girls out. He gave them both a discount and informed them that he would be expecting them on the night of the event so that he could insure that the bearers of his masterpieces were fit to wear them. We thanked him as we left, and he also told me that I would be the sole possessor of his newest work until its popularity arose. We decided that since we had such good luck at our first stop that we would continue our shopping venture at the mall. I slid into the driver's seat of my Mercedes and began the journey to the mall.
Mai fiddled with the radio until she came upon the perfect station. The melody immediately aroused my dormant memory. "So Cold" by Breaking Benjamin. Never before had the lyrics provoked so much meaning as they were today given the nature of recent events. Visions of my past began to emulate in my imagination, and the phases that these events invoked a certain cold, powerful, blue-eyed CEO to undergo. I fought to contain the waterfall that surged against my eyelids. Mai, who was seated next to me, viewed the ongoing battle. She placed her hand on my shoulder.
"You can cry," she whispered so that no one else in the car could hear. "I won't tell."
Her words came too late, for by the time they escaped her lips, I had already triumphed. I drove in silence, refusing to meet the eyes of anyone in the vehicle. As I pulled into the mall parking lot, I spotted a 1967 Shelby GT 500. The girls gasped as they gazed at the magnum opus. I parked in the space next to the splendor, careful not to touch the mineral gray paint.
"That's a nice car," Tea remarked as we walked away.
"Whoever owns that car has some dough and connections. Those things eat parts and are impossible to find. They're also generally expensive," I added, knowing that Seto's father owned the classic once upon a time.
We entered the mall, which was not the spectacle of Regal Impressions but still deserved to be mentioned. The stores were mostly department stores, but there were a few brand names. There was an Armani store, which none of us wanted to attend. After walking a few feet, I discovered a Wilson's Leather Outlet. Mai and I jolted to the door, sharing a common fancy for leather, and Tea reluctantly followed, looking as though she wished she didn't know us. I split while they were examining the classic styles, and traveled to the section where my favorite jackets could always be found. I saw a familiar face and stopped dead in my tracks.
Seto's POV>
We had already visited most of the stores in the mall. Mokuba had convinced me earlier not to where a huge, billowing trench coat that was a billboard for Kaiba Corps. I submitted to his wishes. I selected a few items from Pac Sun, mostly sweatshirts and belts, some studded bracelets from Hot Topic, and assembly of new CDs that I had yet to add to my collection. With a little persuasion from Mokuba, I made an appointment to add highlights to my hair. We bickered back and forth about which color would suit me, and I triumphed with the suggestion of black. I stared in the mirror at the parlor, debating whether I liked the new style or not.
It was a look that I hadn't fancied since my days at Fox Run, but then again, wasn't that the time period I wished to resurrect? I decided that the stuck-up businessmen with sticks up their asses would just have to shut up and deal with it. Mokuba was trying to convince me to get my ear pierced, but I thought that maybe that was too bold a change for one day. Both of us were beginning to have enough of the mall, so we made one last stop at Wilson's Leather store. I was in the back of the store, examining a white, black and blue racing jacket, when I spotted her.
"Kaiba?" she asked in disbelief.
"Marshal," I answered in a better tone than I would have ever allowed. "How are you?"
"Are you sick?" she inquired, placing her soft hand on my head. "You're never this nice in public."
I winced as she said the last part, realizing how much cruelty I had shed upon her. I was astound that she had remained civil towards me through the warfare. I smirked demonically at her. She gave me the I-know-you-are-up-to-no-good-but-I-can't-do-anything-but-scold-you look. I watched her bright cobalt eyes as they examined the emotions mine held, attempting to uncover the source of the alteration in my exterior.
"You've really changed a lot in a short period of time. Not that it's a bad thing of course," she added quickly, hoping that I would not go nuclear on her.
"You think it's too bold? For a CEO, I mean." I asked.
"I think it's not too bold for a teenager," she reminded.
It had been a long time since anyone had thought of me as a teenager and not a CEO or a big brother. She saw that even though I acted like an adult, I was still a teen at heart, but then again, wasn't she in the same boat? She had inherited a small chain of restaurants from her foster parents and was now forced to devote her life to the survival of the chain. She always had to be thinking about what the public thought about her and her conduct, just as I did. We were the same, she and I.
I stared at her, admiring every aspect of her beautiful face. Her chestnut hair fell across her right eye, while her left one surveyed me. I gently swept the obstruction from her sight line. There was an electric shock that passed from me to her, causing her to jump back a few inches. I murmured my apologies, and she stared at me with even wider eyes. I knew that she had never expected to hear those words escaping my orifice.
I heard the voice of Mai Valentine and immediately began to tense. I had always admired her beauty even through the duration of our "romantic" relationship. That was a long time ago though. She and I had totally different views when it came to family. I glared at her as she gaped at my new completion.
"Wow, Kaiba. Are you trying to be funny or are you committing public suicide?" she questioned.
I refused to answer her question. She initiated one of our infamous staring contests. It was these contests that had resulted in our passionate outbursts once upon a time. However, I didn't fell the same urge that I had felt then to pounce and rip off all of her clothes. This non-existent urge confused me. Had I finally gotten over her, or was my adoration just transplanted into a different vessel? It only took one look into sapphire eyes to answer my question.
Sclera's POV>
To my amazement, Mokuba had not spoken since our meeting. I glanced at the kid, who was gently smiling at me. I returned his smile with a smirk as a served as a bystander to the war that was taking place between the two teens. I sensed the bond that had been buried in the closet with all the other skeletons. They have been lovers. Or at least fuck buddies.
Seto seemed to be contemplating something about the subject before him, and as I glimpsed his eyes as they gaped at me, I knew that one of his options had just been confirmed. His gaze was now glued on me. I returned it inquisitively while remaining the look of knowledge. He blinked a few times before turning his attention to his younger brother.
"Well, kid, you about ready to go home?" he asked.
The boy nodded, seeming not to want anymore confliction between his brother and the headstrong female. I observed Seto's movements as he left. He rammed past Mai and didn't bother saying another word to me. Some things never change. The only question I have is if Mai made him self-conscious or uncomfortable.
"He's a friendly fellow," Mai observed.
"Yeah, and he didn't seem too fond of you. Is there something that you're not telling me?" I replied gruffly.
"We had a relationship that didn't end very well. I pretend that I never knew him, but he's still universally sexy."
"That he is," I agreed. "Where's Tea?"
"She's over there flirting with the guy at the register. I swear, it's like she doesn't even know that Yugi likes her."
"Grab her. I want to go home now. This is too much excitement for one day."
She nodded, slightly taken aback by my demanding manner. I had not meant to sound so dictatorial, but my outrage towards her was shining brightly in my voice. In some sense, betrayal was the only thing that I could make of her actions. I knew in her mind she had not seen it that way, but I had.
The two appeared once again, Tea appearing slightly annoyed. I jerked my head towards the door before turning that way. They flanked me, creating a look similar to the three musketeers. Mai kept sending me apologetic glances, but I pretended as though she had not even existed.
It didn't take us long to arrive at the car. None other than Seto Kaiba and Mokuba now occupied the silver Mustang. Tea gasped as she laid eyes upon the sight and heard the loud, steady bass thundering from the car. He glared at Mai through the window as he backed out of the parking space.
"What's his deal?" Tea asked.
"The same thing that always is. He's jealous," Mai responded.
"Of what?"
"Sclera," she replied as though it was obvious.
"Why would he be jealous of Lera?"
"Because he knows he can't have her."
"Yeah, well that reason would be that he is too damn arrogant to show that he wants me," I interjected. "He is fine, but, damn, he's cold."
"Yeah. Why do you think I gave up on him? He never acknowledged that I was a woman. He just classifies me as a stupid geek with Joey and Yugi and Tristan."
"What you think I'm classified any differently than you?" I stated incredulously. "He's one of those stuck up pricks that believes that social class decides who mixes with whom."
"Deep down, I think he I think he's truly a teenager, but he doesn't want to show it because he had a reputation to uphold," Mai replied as I began to start the car, and the girls climbed into the car.
"You know he did look a little different. Like his hair was darker or something," Tea remarked.
"He hi-lighted his hair black. I thought it looked really hot," I stated.
"It did," Mai added.
We laughed. Mindless chit chat filled the car for the remainder of the ride. Mai tried to apologize without alerting Tea that anything was amuck. When we arrived at the apartments, Mai and I helped Tea unload the Mercedes and reload the Corvette that was in Mai's possession. After doing so, Mai ordered Tea to remain by the car while she and I climbed the tower to my sky-haven.
"Lera," she started quietly in the elevator. "I'm sorry."
"Tell me about it: the bad-ending relationship. What was it like?" I answered deadly. "How and why?"
"Well, for a long time, Kaiba and I were basically good friends. I decided that he had become handsome to be my "boyfriend." Or more precisely fuck buddy. Well it was going good for about a month, and than something weird happened. One night, after an hour of heaven, I noticed that he had fallen asleep. For a long time he looked peaceful, but then he started talking at first incoherently and then strings of phrases. 'I'm sorry, Blue Eyes. I have failed you.' 'You gave me the strength to live and fight, you and Mokuba, and I have betrayed your trust.' Things like that. I felt second rate to you, and so I ended it the next day. I guess it hurt him. I don't know. He never showed any emotion."
"Jut because he didn't show it, doesn't mean he didn't feel it," I responded coldly, stepping out of the elevator onto my private floor.
She stared at me sadly with amethyst eyes brimming in tears. I returned the stare coldly, taking on similar characteristics of my counter part. As the elevator doors closed, I leaned against the hallway, holding my head in my hands. Seto felt that he had a debt to me, a duty, when it is I who should truly hold the debt. He inspired me to not show how much toll the fatigue and assaults actually had on me. A new light had been shed upon me: a new view of the basis of the cruel façade the man displayed. I sat in the hall wondering what action I should take in light of this new information. I decided that there was only one thing to do: repay him for all that he has given to me.
Tornado: Finally another chapter. R&R.