Howdy! So yes, another chapter update! And so soon! (Like, a whole chapter check soon!)

I've kept you all waiting long enough so I wanna give you a nice little chunk of goodness to satisfy the long waiting hunger y'all wonderful foxes and vixens have had to wait for this!

So Chapter one is done and dusted! Also, now having a wider variety of card knowledge, I've been able to change some of the cards last chapter and make them more fitting! Though I know you still can't use both Cylinder and Javelin in one turn but it's a fun idea, so it's staying! :P

Yes, the OC cards are still there! Most of these were fan-made submissions to me so I'm honoring them and keeping them in the story! If you don't like the fact, then you are more than welcome to leave. I won't stand here and let you disrespect them if you do.

I enjoyed editing the last chapter but there was SO MUCH WRONG WITH IT! Even after a rewrite, how did I not notice these things!? I digress, work has been done and will continue to be done!

Now, to my second-favorite chapter so far in the sixteen I've originally written so far! Here's Chapter two of Enter The King: Redux!

(Hey, that rhymes!) :D

~Enter The King: Redux!~
~Welcome To Duel Academy!~
(~Part I: Sun, Sea, and Sky!~)

It had been a lazy two hours since the ferry left Domino City, taking its passengers across the ocean to their new home for the next few years. Duel Academy's Central Branch: a small tropical island situated fourteen hours from Domino City. Away from the mainland, it was a new start for the students and an opportunity to start afresh without their prior social standings to influence their time here.

While many people would raise issues from being isolated on an island, situated over half a day away from the mainland; people have been assured that all faculties will be present on the island, promised by the founder of the Academy himself. Normally, the Academy would have a complimentary flight service, free of charge, to escort the students. Yet news came back to them that the usual mode of transport was unavailable, both students and teachers alike confused as to why. No one knew a thing.

... almost~

~Flashback: Seven Hours Earlier: Domino City Airport~

"I hate planes! I hate the turbulence, I hate the jet lag, and I despise the food! Why can't we cross over by ferry? There's so much more to do on a ferry, and it's a damn sight better than planes! You can swim on a ferry! You can sunbathe on a ferry! You can even check out the fairer sex as you catch a tan, for goodness sake!" Jaden ranted, much to the amusement of his three lady escorts; Burstinatrix, Kiyomi, and Ayumi.

He had already been given his welcome pack earlier that morning when walking through the terminal; which had his new uniform and everything he would need for the Academy. However, he decided that he wanted to surprise himself so he didn't open it; which also proved a smart idea since it saved him from carrying everything loosely.

While everyone wore clothes accommodating the heatwave that passed through Domino City, he had decided on wearing a black t-shirt with the design of the three ladies on the front (something they were very pleased with and was an early morning package delivered to him by the only one crazy enough to do so), a white pair of knee-length camo shorts and flip-flops. He also had a pair of designer sunglasses on top of his head, just in case.

"Awww, is our cute Jay-Jay afwaid of the big bad pwane?" Kiyomi teased playfully to him, wearing her 'off-hours' outfit; an orange tube top, that flaunted her perky B-cup breasts and her smooth tanned stomach. Sitting snugly over her rear, a pair of denim daisy dukes showing just enough cheek to tempt passerby's eyes to her rear, and not be considered 'tarty'. A pair of black summer sandals on her feet, showing off her burnt-orange painted toenails. Off her left shoulder hung a white summer bag and a pair of sunglasses tucked down the front of her top between her cleavage.

"Who would ever think that our big, brave King would be scared of heights~?" Burstinatrix laughed a bit more openly, having also dressed down; a flowery cream top, knee-length red skirt, and black calf-high boots. Unlike normal, she also decided to tie her hair back into a ponytail, much like Kiyomi had done. She leaned into his back and whispered into his ear, taking the opportunity to nibble his ear lobe and press her C-cups into his back. The blush on his face was more than worth the teasing as she kissed his cheek to finish.

"Oh, play nice! We'll be there if he needs someone to hold his hand~" Ayumi finished with another of her trademark tinkling giggles; modeling a light, free-flowing white summer dress with sunglasses and sun-hat atop her head. She was the only one of the three girls who decided to leave her hair down and have it cascade like a golden waterfall, enhanced by the sun's rays.

"This isn't funny!" Jaden pouted childishly before chuckling himself at how childish he must have looked right then. "Right, that's it! Ladies, I want you to make sure that the plane cannot, and will not be used today!" he ordered dramatically, earning three sets of giggles in response.

"Yes, your Majesty~" The three all mock-curtsied, more than amused at the fact that he wanted something so petty. He shook his head in exasperation but a smile remained on his face as he waited for the job to be done.

~ETK:R!~

(Later On...)

"What do you mean it's not flyable!?" Crowler fumed down the phone, scaring the poor person on the other end of the line. Most of the students began whispering among themselves and breaking off into their little social circles, confused as to what'll happen with getting them to Duel Academy. While they all continued to whisper among themselves, Jaden had found a secluded spot in the shade with a crate for him to sit down on, his three duel spirits joining him and surrounding him.

They were still within a good five meters of Crowler but were distanced enough not to be bothered by other students; having already getting sour looks from a majority of the male population as they saw him with three gorgeous women. The female students were also sending jealous looks to the three girls, wanting to be in their position after the news spread that a Pro-Circuit duelist would be joining their year.

News had spread like wildfire about him taking the exam for Duel Academy after a video of the duel had been uploaded online. Seto Kaiba, himself, had to step in and inform the media that it was his personal invitation that Jaden took up in regards to him taking the entrance exam. He also explained that he wouldn't show any partiality or favoritism to Jaden, despite knowing him personally; he'd treat him the same way he always did, which was fair.

"Heya, Jay!" Syrus called out to him, snapping Jaden out of his thoughts as he, Bastion, and Jenny jogged over to where they were sitting. Syrus had opted to wear a somewhat kiddish-ensemble of a light-blue t-shirt and a pair of white shorts, finishing the get-up with matching white trainers. Jaden idly noted that his glasses had reactor lenses and made a note to see about getting himself a pair as well.

Bastion had taken to wearing a plain white short-sleeved shirt and a pair of blue ironed jeans finished with a pair of brown loafers and a black leather jacket that was draped over his arm. All in all, Jaden was majorly impressed with the look and sent a nod towards Bastion, earning one in kind.

Jenny, he had to double take at because he never would believe that she would be the type of person to wear what she did:

A black bikini-top that seemed to strain against her bust area and reveal her slim and toned stomach, a similar, slightly more conservative pair of light blue denim shorts to that of Kiyomi's, with a pair of black flip-flops to finish. Opting for copying Ayumi, her hair fell loose down her back, with a set of glasses keeping her bangs out of her eyes. Over her left shoulder was a sports backpack which he assumed held her everyday stuff.

"Hey, guys! What's up?" Jaden asked, not paying attention to Syrus' fish impression being surrounded by the three gorgeous women. "Why aren't we leaving, yet?"

"That's the thing, Jaden! There seems to be a problem with the plane that's supposed to take us there but they're not quite sure what the problem is," Bastion trailed off. "Even Crowler's mentioned that this is the first year something like this has happened to them."

"More than likely that something might be wrong with the engines. If not, then the next likeliest cause would be some loose piece of metal in the propellers that could jeopardize the flight," he replied smoothly, earning a suspicious look from Bastion. "I've been on my fair share of planes and they seem to be the most common!" he smoothly lied, ignoring the giggles from the three girls around him.

"I suppose that could be the case," Bastion replied, intrigued by the reasoning but willing to let it go with a knowing smile on his face. Jenny walked up to him and hesitated slightly from the sight of the three women, feeling slightly discouraged. She would admit that she could easily turn heads if she made an effort in how she looked, having done it before. Yet as she saw him surrounded by the three beautiful women, she felt her insecurities flare up as she compared herself to them.

She immediately winced, the left side of her head exploding in sharp pain and collapsing to her knees as grit teeth bared the flare of pain. Jaden's eyes widened, moving immediately to her side and resting his hand on her shoulder, bringing her attention to his close-up face.

"Are you okay!?" Jaden panicked, checking over her for any signs of discomfort. Shakily exhaling, she shook her head in the negative. Sensing there was more to this, Jaden decided to drop any further questions and offered a hand up; one Jenny took after a moment, pulling her over to the crates to sit on and gather her breath.

"It's... just an old injury," Jenny hesitated. Bastion and Syrus both took a step back with the three duel spirits, giving the two of them a little space right now. "Heh, what a start to the day," she lamented, sarcasm rich in her voice as she was placed next to him on the crates.

"Hey, Jen?" Jaden softly called out to her, turning her gaze to him. "I know we only met yesterday but I want you to know you can talk to me. Okay? If ever you need a shoulder to cry on, I'm here."

She sat there, rendered speechless by the care in his voice for her. Allowing a soft giggle to escape, the pain soon eased up from the side of her head. Wiping the forming tears from her eyes before they fell, she nodded silently.

"Thank you. That truly means a lot to me, Jay~ Know the same goes for you, alright?" she responded earnestly, winning a nod and warm smile from him that made her blush slightly. "So, who are those lovely ladies with you?" she inquired, the previous insecurities now fading away from within her.

"Ladies!" Jaden called out, earning the attention of his duel spirits. "Let me introduce you to Syrus Truesdale, Bastion Misawa, and Jenny Andrews! Three of my newest friends I made yesterday!" He introduced the three by name, pointing to the said people as he introduced them.

"Everyone? This may seem a bit hard to believe but these three lovely women are some of my closest friends and I've known two of them for years; Trix, Kiyomi, and Ayumi. Ayumi, of course, you all met yesterday~" he finished cryptically, shocking the three of them as they soon connected the dots from the end of yesterday's duel.

"They're more here for my benefit, more than anything, but it keeps people from harassing me, too. Well, when they're not doing it instead!" he grinned cheekily, earning a few laughs from everyone there.

"But Jaden, you love it when we get physical with you~" Trix flirted with a coy smirk on her face, fluttering her eyes innocently at him. Earning a guffaw in response, all of them soon joined in on the joke.

"H-Hey!" Syrus smiled shyly, blushing hard from their combined beauty. The three cooed at his cuteness and hugged him, making his blush darker and everyone laugh good-naturedly.

"Pleasure to make your acquaintances~" Bastion bowed, earning a giggle from the ladies when he kissed their hands politely and courteously.

"H-Hey ladies," Jenny stammered, cursing herself as she looked away from them. She thought her insecurities weren't gonna bother her again but it seemed she was mistaken. A quick hand to rub the side of her head was proof enough before willing the pain back down. The three spirits turned to one another and shared a knowing look among them before giving the girl a tender hug from each of them. She was surprised but the action eased her fears again when they mentioned something in her ear, also causing her to blush a little. The smile on her face looked much more natural when Jaden saw it again and made a note to thank the three women.

"Hey there!" the three duel spirits replied in sync, smiling warmly at the three. The cozy atmosphere was lost when-

"STUDENTS!?" Crowler yelled with a shrill, grabbing everybody's attention. "There has been a problem with the engines having been placed under a great deal of heat; melting some of the parts! The company has been contacted and will send us a replacement ferry to take us to the Academy! You all have three hours until the ferry arrives. Now, scram!" he explained before shooing the students away as he made a phone call and walked off.

"Told you so!" Jaden mused as he stood up, earning a shake of the head from Bastion since it confirmed Jaden had a part in it. "So, we have three hours to kill; how about we grab some food, check out the card shops, and grab a few trinkets for ourselves to take with us?" he offered, smiling at his successful infiltration. "I can check if my grandpa is still running his card shop!"

"Oh, you mean our Grandpa?" a deep voice called out to them, Jaden smiling while everyone else began gawking when they faced the newcomer. Students looked on, cheering loudly, and started taking photos when they watched Jaden walk up to the current reigning King of Games.

"Yug! I'm starting to think you're stalking me here!" Jaden smiled, hugging his friend and guardian. "I take it Téa's been nagging for some quality time with you?" he smirked, nudging his side. Yugi had the decency to blush a little but he never refuted the claim as he coughed into his hand.

"She can be a feisty one! Of course, you should know after the 'pizza incident'," Yugi smirked as he watched the color in Jaden's face be completely drained. This earned the attention of those who didn't know about this and paid rapt attention to the story.

"It was Joey who started the whole thing, not me! 'Brooklyn Rage', my ass!" Jaden retorted as he noticed the shocked looks on his friends' faces. "Oh! Manners! Yugi, meet my friends; Syrus Truesdale, Jenny Andrews, and Bastion Misawa! I believe you guys know who this is?"

"Y-Yugi Moto!" Syrus exclaimed, shaking hands with his idol and the King of Games. "I'm a huge fan of yours!"

"For real! I can't believe I'm meeting you in person!" Jenny squealed as she shook his hand before dragging him into a hug, much to Jaden's amusement and Yugi's embarrassment.

"The legend in the flesh. It is a great honor to meet you, Yugi!" Bastion bowed respectfully, earning a nod from Yugi in return.

"The pleasure is all mine. It's nice to see Jaden making some more friends," Yugi smiled as he turned to the three spirits. "Hello Trix, Kiyomi," he nodded towards the two familiar duel spirits.

"Heya Yugi!" the said girls replied, smiling at him as his attention turned to the third spirit.

"I don't believe we've met in person, yet," Yugi hinted as he faced the blonde.

"Ah, o-of course! My name is Ayumi. You met me yesterday, actually," she bowed as Yugi turned to Jaden and received a nod.

"Oh, of course! A pleasure to meet you, Ayumi!" he smiled. "Now, I heard that your flight is delayed?"

"Engine problems, so it'll take two hours for a replacement ferry to come along," Jaden explained as he got to his feet and stretched. "Fancy grabbing Téa and joining us for a little while? It'd be sweet to catch up with you both!" Jaden grinned, earning a rare grin in return from Yugi as the two of them bumped fists.

"I like the sound of that. Let's make tracks!" Yugi smiled in kind as the eight of them made their way into the city itself to pass the next three hours.

~End Flashback!~

Thanks to the little stunt he had successfully pulled off, the nine of them (including Téa, who hugged Jaden to death upon seeing him) managed to head out around the various shops and pick up some souvenirs and trinkets, ready for their stay on Duel Academy Island.

Téa, much to everyone's surprise, had gotten along with Bastion like a house on fire and ended up buying a collection of books for him to read, should he ever find himself wanting to delve into something new to keep him occupied.

Yugi had teasingly purchased a Dark Magician Girl plushy for Syrus, much to everyone's amusement and his embarrassment, and Syrus had started talking with him about dueling tips and techniques.

Meanwhile, Jaden had wanted to spend a little time with Jenny, after the three duel spirits had decided to go shopping for new clothes. One reason was to make sure she didn't have another episode like earlier on. The other was to get to know her and just give her the chance to get to know him.

So while they were looking around, her eyes set zoned in on a certain charm necklace; a small silver necklace with the charm of a chibi Blue-Eyes. Grinning to himself, he slid past the charm in question and bought it for her; hidden behind the purchase of an acoustic guitar for himself to play with.

She immediately protested the moment she found out he had done such a thing but blushed hard when she felt him place the necklace around her neck. She was extremely sensitive to touches, so it took a lot of her willpower to not embarrass herself as his hands glided over her skin. Though she was adamant about paying for a few guitar strings as a thank you; mirth emanated from them both as they laughed, a cozy atmosphere between them.

After their little shopping spree, the remaining six of them made their way towards Yugi's Card Shop, who had generously given them each a few free packs, to help bolster their decks in preparation for their time away. All of them were taken back by the generosity and thanked Yugi repeatedly. Syrus was beyond ecstatic; managing to pull out two Dark Magician Girls and a Dark Magician. Taking a look over towards Jaden, the two had a silent conversation between them without nary a word. Earning a grin from Jaden, Yugi surprised everyone; unclipping his deck holder and handing it over to Syrus.

Syrus nearly dropped the gift, not believing for a second that the King of Games was giving him his deck! Though Yugi soon explained that he was simply letting Syrus borrow it until he found himself a little more comfortable with his spellcasters, and was ready to create his own deck. Only then, would Yugi reclaim his deck.

Jenny had managed to pull a few rare dragon cards to bolster her deck, yet outright shrieked in delight upon drawing a Dragon Spirit of White from one of the packs she was given! Solomon Moto, aka 'Gramps', chuckled upon seeing the honest reaction from her, making him smile at seeing the cards making her so happy. He sat them all down and explained the origin of the Blue-Eyes White Dragon, shocking them all when they discovered that Solomon was the original owner of all three copies many years ago.

He had excused himself for a moment before walking into the room with a box in his hand. Opening up said box, he revealed a handful of rare cards he had stored away; most likely for the moment he discovered someone with the talent to use them. With reverence in her actions, she took the cards he had given her. Allowing herself a few tears to fall from being so overwhelmed by the gesture, Solomon ruffled her hair affectionately and told her she was welcome to visit anytime she liked.

Intrigued at the thought of a dragon-user using cards that Seto Kaiba was famous for, Jaden kept that piece of information safe for a later date when he could pull a few strings with said duelist. Plus with Solomon's blessing, she had now become a part of the family, to his delight!

The three duel spirits, after spending some quality time with one another, had caught back up to them the moment they left the card shop. Everyone had noticed that Trix drastically changed her outfit; now opting for a dark maroon bikini-top, with a matching, flame-patterned pareo. What nearly blew Jaden's mind was the distinct lack of material resting on her hip, causing his hero to smirk as she sashayed her hips whilst walking towards him. Haven gotten close enough, she teased him by lifting the pareo slightly to reveal her bare hip and crotch; showing him she was wearing nothing underneath~

Winning a kiss to the cheek, Trix leaned into his ear and whispered seductive promises that left him blushing and stuttering; much to the amusement and delight of everyone else, seeing Jaden becoming flustered for a change!

With their departure drawing close, they exchanged their farewells and began to ready themselves to board the cruise that awaited them. It screamed wealthy and everyone was excited for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience all it had to offer them!

His three ladies opted to return to Jaden's deck, just as Yugi and Téa began to part ways as well. Jenny quickly called out to them, asking them one last favor and having a photo with them as a memento of this incredible day. Syrus immediately jumped on board with the idea, while Bastion was more reserved, yet no less excited by the prospect.

I mean, when do you get the chance to have a group photo with the King of Games, his apprentice, who happened to be the Elemental King himself, and the rare opportunity to see Yugi out with his fiancée, Téa?

Damn right she was having a photo!

~ETK:R~

(Time Skip: Cruise)

So now, the cruise had long departed for its destination and the students bound for the island agreed that they were all thrilled with their replacement method of travel; giving them much more to do to pass the time before they reached their destination tomorrow afternoon. Making the most of the continued sunshine and hot weather; he, Bastion, and Jenny were all occupying three of the deck chairs while poor Syrus remained in his cabin, trying his hardest not to get seasick.

Bastion was content reading the first of the new books he had been gifted by Téa, a series that revolved around the story of a young girl aspiring to become one of her worlds' greatest Huntresses.

A side note; Rest in Peace, Monty~

Jaden had left his towel back on his deck chair, using the pool on the main deck to cool himself off. He kept forgetting that he was a celebrity sometimes and had to be careful about what he did; since many of the female students caught him soaked and topless. Safe to say, that their reactions either knocked them clean out, made them fan themselves at the sight of him, or sent him predatory and lustful glances that made him shudder violently.

Jenny caught the reaction and soon acted as his bodyguard, sending glares towards the cockier females and sending them scurrying. She thanked her lucky stars for her amber eyes, proving to be effective in sending bitches running if they went too far. While she wasn't glaring at passersby, she opted to lean back on her chair and catch herself a small tan while she had the opportunity to. Thankfully, Jaden had offered to pour some oil on her, though she had to distract her thoughts.

She could only handle so much of knowing her idol was rubbing oil into her body, whilst on a cruise, on a perfectly sunny day.

Women can be perverted too! They just hide it much better than we males can!

While she was sunbathing, she remembered something that Burstinatrix had told her, and it had been nagging her like a small voice in the back of her head. She sighed as she turned her head towards Jaden, who had returned to his chair for the time being, before finding the courage to speak.

"Jay?" she asked, sitting up on her chair. She had tied her hair into a bun, holding it in place with a pin, while she slipped into an alluring two-piece black bikini that attracted a lot of attention from a majority of the male students around the pool. He hadn't asked but she had flat-out told him that she was a C-cup; having told Jaden her measurements while shopping for some swimwear, shortly after he had bought her the necklace that was devilishly nestled in her cleavage.

Now, as respectful as he was, Jaden had to admit his eyes went to several areas from his new friend, and had to try hard to look her in the eyes.

Of course, she noticed this and decided how far she could make him blush and ogle at her. Call it unusual since she had only met him yesterday but it felt like they bonded so quickly and just 'clicked'. Who cares if people think it's too fast or if it's something else? They knew what it was and there was no awkwardness between them.

Maybe she could get some tips from Trix? Heheh~

"Jen? What's up?" he asked back, tilting his head towards her.

"Something's been bothering me and I'm wondering if it isn't too much for you to explain," she started asking but trailed off unassuredly, blushing slightly towards the end.

"Alright, what's the matter?" he asked her, lifting his sunglasses and focusing his attention on her face.

"Those three spirits, what were they to you? Trix wanted me to ask you about your relationship with them and why they were so close to you. I wanted to ask but a part of me didn't want to, because I didn't want to upset you, I'm sorry, I shouldn't-" she panicked. Her eyes had begun to dilate and her breath coming out quicker than before, anxiety kicking in and making her thoughts spiral downwards. Jaden saw this and immediately moved to her chair and grabbed a hold of her hands, breaking her from her thoughts.

"Jen!" he interrupted her tirade, breaking her train of thought. "It's okay. You didn't ask anything wrong, you're okay. I'm not upset, I'm not sad, you're okay. I promise," he softly spoke to her, rubbing her hands with his thumbs and giving her time to calm down.

"I'll go and find a member of staff and let them know!" Bastion helped out, flipping his book page-side down and running off to find help. With Bastion now leaving the two behind, they both noticed something odd.

At this point, the deck had been cleared; Jaden noted a few spirits keeping an eye on the area and giving them privacy. It seemed his spirits must trust her if they've gone this far for her to ask him this kind of thing.

"You know that some people can see duel spirits and interact with them?" he asked. She nodded slowly, curious as to where the topic will lead. "Well, I have an ability which allows me to give duel spirits a small amount of time where they can physically appear before us, as you've seen earlier."

"Which ones were they?" she quietly asked, curious about who they were but still feeling the effects of her anxiety attack unsettling her nerves. "I know that Ayumi is your Supernova but I'm not too sure of the other two," she added on as an afterthought.

"Oh, right! The three of them were all Elemental Heroes Burstinatrix, Lady Heat, and Supernova," he replied. Jen's amber orbs widened slightly as she smiled softly, nodding to herself.

"Do they... umm… well, you know..." she trailed off, not knowing how to put her question across. "I know Trix seems very flirty with you, so I wasn't sure what you guys are to each other," she confessed softly, her blush returning slightly from the discomfort of asking a sensitive topic. Jaden chuckled softly as he sat upon his chair and lifted his glasses off his face so he could look her in the eyes, knowing why this conversation was happening.

"I think I know what Trix wanted you to know," he paused, not wanting to explain this to her but his spirits kinda took it out of his hands.

"It's not well known and it's rarely been heard of, but there have been cases of people getting into a relationship with a duel spirit, and somehow making it work. I'm not quite sure what to class myself and the girls but we're a lot... closer than most duel spirits are," he explained as he took a pause, thankful for no interruptions. The slight tremble of her body made him worried, noting how her eyes looked a lot less bright and seemed… disappointed?

"Right. That's all-" Jenny sighed, slightly disheartened by the news before she was interrupted by the brunette across from her.

"I'm an orphan," he started, taking small pauses to form the words in his head and stopping the redhead's words in her mouth. Her head snapped towards him as she began processing the shocking news, wondering why he was telling her this.

"This is something I'm not comfortable talking about but I trust my girls to not do something like this if it didn't mean something good came from it. This isn't your fault, okay?" Jaden sadly smiled, squeezing her hands for both her benefit and his own. Feeling the gesture returned allowed him to carry on.

"From what I've been told, my dad passed away before I was born. Mom died giving birth to me, due to complications. I don't know all that much apart from what I've been told but what I do know about them is that they were both Pro Duelists, themselves. I grew up in an orphanage for a few years. Things were fine for the most part but I was kicked out the moment the owner found out about my parent's wealth, trying to use his treatment of me as a means to getting his hands on it," he explained with darkened eyes, watching the shock on her face as she listened to his story.

"I was ten years old when he gave up, throwing me out onto the streets. I was scared at first and thought it had been a joke but…" he ruefully chuckled, shaking his head. "It wasn't to be. I hadn't known that my parents had a savings account until four years ago when I was told by my sponsor; having done some background digging for me.

There was one night, in particular, I remember clearer than the rest," Jaden toned his voice to a whisper, with emotion thickly coating his words. "It was pouring down with rain that night and I was caught in the middle of it. I had to resort to sleeping under a bunch of filthy rags that someone threw out, much to my luck," Jaden continued, his retelling of the story bringing him back to his ten-year-old self and reliving that night.

Jenny listened intensively to his words, failing to even begin to imagine the horrors he must have experienced. Even more to the point, shocked at the fact that he was only ten when all of this happened! Inside, Jenny felt the guilt hit her like a freight train by intruding in his affairs; not wanting to have been told this if it meant explaining something to her. She turned to find Trix standing nearby and glared at her for making him speak about this.

Trix widened her eyes from the hostile glare but sadly smiled, understanding the reaction to why she mentioned this to her. As if she read the redhead's thoughts, she shook her head sadly, cutting her thought of running away right now and cutting the conversation short. It hurt her to have to do this but she could sense that Jenny would be a valuable friend to Jaden. Her womanly instinct never failed when it came to him and it wasn't about to start now.

"W-Without..." he trailed off, going slightly pale and retching slightly before calming himself down with deep breaths. Jenny, startled by the sudden sound, flinched before breaking one of her hands off to soothingly rub his back. She kept this for a few minutes before she felt him relax a little again, the retching sounds stopping but the paleness remaining on his face. Whatever he was remembering was something she hoped she wouldn't find out any time soon, if that is his reaction.

"Because of something that happened later that night, which I won't go into," he bit out unknowingly, cutting that avenue of conversation off before it began, "It caused me to enter a two-year coma. During that time, I found myself mentally repressing my memories of that night before I stumbled across something I shouldn't have known at the time."

The last part of his response confused her since you don't usually experience much of anything while you were in a coma. She, unfortunately, could attest to that.

"There were, from what I was told, some close cases where my brain almost shut down from the sheer magnitude of stress I was dealing with. Four times I nearly lost brain function during the coma, meaning I would've never woken up again."

Taking a moment to let that sink in, he looked up to find that she had fallen silent. He watched as Jenny looked like she was ready to bolt out of there crying, understanding the guilt that must be tearing at her. Taking her free hand back into his, her tear-struck face found his, as his hand locked fingers with hers in a moment of trust.

"Don't run, Jenny. You were asked to ask me this and I'm telling you certain parts that I'm able to tell you. Some of this is painful for me to think about, let alone talk about, okay?" he softly spoke, earning a soft nod as she continued to listen.

Feeling even more insecure than earlier, she made a brave move; softly unlocking her fingers with his own before moving forward to wrap her arms around him. Jaden didn't even hesitate and soon wrapped his arms around her, the two of them sitting there for a little while until he could find the strength to talk again. Even when he did, neither of them made a move away from each other and enjoyed this moment of trust, together.

"To cut a very long story short for now, I slipped into the coma. It turned out that Yugi, himself, was the one to find me and begged Seto Kaiba for help. He told me that if it wasn't for the fact that it was Yugi who begged him for this favor, he wouldn't have cared. It was when he found out what happened that he acted, and he was furious from what I was told," Jaden whispered, thankful to not speak aloud and gently bringing the woman holding him into his lap. She did tense for a moment but soon let her body relax as she melded herself against him.

"From there, Pegasus caught wind of the two of them working together for some reason, and did some digging. He soon found out the details himself, and all of them took legal action. Because of their actions; Yugi became my legal guardian by adopting me, though I wanted to keep my surname to honor my parents."

Resting his head in her hair and taking her scent in; a wonderful combination of a sweet perfume that reminded him of cherry blossoms, mixed in with the natural womanly smell of her pheromones and slight sweat? It made for a calming combination that made him want to fall asleep.

"Kaiba paid for all of my medical expenses and made sure I was under the care of the very best medics in the world. He threatened to fire an entire team of staff for initially refusing to care for me and it was only due to the one group of nurses that they kept their jobs. I still visit them when they're working, just to thank them for saving me."

That made her smile warmly, thankful some people cared for him when he needed it the most. She enjoyed his warmth some more, nuzzling her face into his neck and enjoying his musky scent that made her mouth water a little.

"It was thanks to Pegasus that I found out about my family, and the money they saved up. He became my second, unofficial guardian beside Yugi. I also have these guys with me, since it's him who made this deck, plus one other, for me," he smiled softly, continuing to cuddle the redhead holding him and feeling no resistance from her as she leaned further into him.

"When I came to, I was placed in a psychiatric ward and went through eighteen months of mental rehab," he sighed, scratching her head softly, feeling her tremble in his arms from the sudden turn of mood.

"Three mental breakdowns, two mental relapses, diagnosed with severe PTSD, severe social anxiety, severe depression, type-two borderline personality disorder, ADHD, and diagnosed as an extreme emotional introvert. I developed severe cases of both athazagoraphobia and philophobia; the fear of being on my own and the fear of being physically intimate, respectively. I became very distrustful of people and I often had to ask my spirits for their advice on people because they've been there throughout each stage of my recovery," he explained, burying his face deeper and squeezing her for support right now.

"I don't ever pick favorites when it comes to my spirits but there are two which I hold closer than the rest. They all know this, and why it is, and they understand and respect that decision. It doesn't mean I don't treat the others any less love than I would otherwise, yanno?" he asked rhetorically, earning a small negative shake of her head to show she agreed with him.

"As for the girls of the group? They've gotten me used to small acts of physical intimacy but never past kissing and cuddling. Trix tries the hardest by simply being her flirty self, and I love that side of her," he professed, earning a small giggle from Jenny at how adorable he sounded saying that.

Meanwhile, Trix had overheard that little comment and smiled warmly in response. Her hand rested between her breasts and felt the rapid beating of her heart, knowing it was him who made it that way. Kiyomi, beside her, nudged per playfully and gave a knowing grin. Wiggling her eyebrows at the 'lovey-dovey' expression on her face, Kiyomi continued to tease Trix silently while the two continued to talk.

"It is more than possible to be fully intimate with them but they know I'm nowhere ready for that step," he tried grinning, earning a pitiful laugh from Jenny as she felt her guilt return for making him remember this.

"But those three girls, two which you haven't met yet, and excluding Ayumi; they've been everything I could ask for. If I needed sisters and advice about how women think and better understanding them, they'd fall into that role. If I needed a motherly touch, they would get maternal towards me and be the mothers I never had. If I needed to ask more embarrassing questions, then they would try and explain it to me in a way I wouldn't feel uncomfortable or possibly trigger another relapse. But most of the time, they do act like..." he trailed off, trying to find a good explanation.

"Think of it as a cross between a girlfriend and best friends with benefits. They'd give me a little intimacy here and there, and I'd return it if I felt comfortable enough but they'd never push me too far. Yet they do try to push me a little more each time, and I'm thankful for them doing so. So while they're romantically involved, it is and isn't a relationship, as weird as it sounds. It's just what it is," he finished explaining, feeling a hand on his shoulder. He glanced back to find Burstinatrix smiling at him, squeezing his shoulder before disappearing once more.

"Thank you. Thank you so much for trusting me with such an important and painful part of your life, Jay," Jenny whispered as she continued to hold him, having wrapped her legs around his waist to give him as much physical contact he needed right now. He shook slightly and allowed some tears to fall as she held him, causing her own to fall as she caressed his hair. She felt for the brunette, she truly did. Her heart ached to have been told such a sad part of his past but to see how he overcame that was nothing short of inspiring to her.

"Thank you, Jen," he whispered back, feeling much calmer and lighter. "Once I recovered and was released, I immediately moved in with Yugi and Gramps; staying with them for a few years and learning to duel from Yugi, himself," he smiled, slowly undoing the ponytail her hair was in and running his fingers through it, earning a soft contented purr from her throat.

"With Yugi willing to teach me, Pegasus soon told me that he wanted to become my official sponsor for when I decided to hit the Pro-Circuit, which I did back at the age of fourteen. So, a few years on the circuit later, I found myself wanting to take a break from it all and just take time to explore other opportunities. Seto ended up visiting me, bringing his brother Mokuba with him, and suggested that I try out for his new Duel Academy. Hoping I could regain some normalcy from my warped childhood. That's pretty much condensed as much as I can get it," he sighed as he closed his eyes, tired from the long explanation.

"You know," Jenny began slowly as she searched for the words she wanted, "You're nothing like what I expected. I've always been a fan of yours, don't get me wrong; you became my inspiration to duel since you hit the pro scene at a young age. It showed me that with enough work and effort, I could be just as good as you and make my dream come true," she smiled into his neck, scratching the back of his head softly.

"I wanted to dedicate my life to dueling and I practiced to get better than I was the day before, so I could fulfill that dream. I've always loved dueling and I always wanted to follow in your footsteps," she smiled as she gladly professed that tidbit of information.

"I'm sorry for all the pain you suffered and I'm so sorry for making you remember it just to answer my stupid question," she berated herself. "But it only contributes to how strong-willed a person you are and how amazing you are in being able to endure through all the hurt and rise above it. I never would've believed anyone if they said that I'd be meeting my idol, let alone being in the same year as them in Duel Academy, but," she pulled back, letting him see her tear-streaked face and one of her truest smiles.

"I'm happier I got to meet Jaden Yuki. Not the celebrity, not the pro duelist, but a little bit of the man you are. I'm beyond honored that you trust me enough to confide in me; only knowing me for a day," she whispered to him as she sighed in contentment. She felt him rub her back empathetically and buried her face once more in his neck.

"I'm glad I got to know you a little as well, Jen," he smiled in return for the affectionate gesture, feeling at ease as she held him. "Hopefully I get to know you more during our time here, yanno?"

"I'd love that~" Jenny smiled as she felt him lay backward on the chair, pulling her down with him as she lay on top of him. Her arms soon moved to rub his bare chest, keeping her head in his neck and just feeling at peace with him like this. "Let's try and get a little sleep in and perk back up, hmm~?"

"I think that's a good idea," Jaden smiled as he rubbed the back of the girl that was cuddled up to him. "I'm glad to know I've given people a purpose in life and a dream to achieve," Jaden began, yawning once the words left his mouth.

"It's always a blessing to meet my fans and to know them personally; their dreams, their goals, and their lives. People joke that I'm a modern-day superhero for just making people smile, one day at a time," he chuckled softly, the rumbling in his throat vibrating into her and purring in response. Jaden yawned again, letting sleep take over and holding the girl in his arms as he drifted off to sleep. Jenny took a moment to glance up at his sleeping face, a warm smile appearing as she studied how handsome he looked. Burying her head once more into his neck, she soon followed him into a nap.

'Superhero, huh? That sounds about right for you, Jay. Then again, I've always had a thing for heroes~' she thought to herself, giggling as she gave in to sleep.

~ETK:R!~

(Time Skip: Ferry Deck)

He sighed as he ran a hand through his hair a few times, looking up at the clear starry sky that graced them now that the sun had set a few hours ago. Bringing his hand back down to the railing in front of him, leaning his arms against it and letting his gaze take in the starlit waters. He recalled everything he had spoken about earlier and, while it did resurface some of his darkest memories, he didn't hold anything against her because she was curious to know. Plus having been given the little push from Trix, the first of the Heroes he ever met.

He smiled sadly, seeing the guilty look on his hero's face earlier on, and made a note to speak with her and ease her fears; turning his gaze towards the stars.

"It's a beautiful night, isn't it?"

Jaden glanced behind him to find a duel spirit he hadn't spoken to in a small while, hovering just behind him with a soft, sad smile on her face. He simply closed his eyes and focused; not being able to see his actions but knowing the slight wisps of black energy that surrounded him. Reaching out and touching her, the energy solidified around her as she felt her body materialize from the touch. Softly walking forwards, she reached out and took his hand into hers; moving close to him, giving him company.

"That it is," he softly spoke, wrapping his arm around her waist to bring her closer to him. She preened at the action, resting her head on his shoulder as they passed the time away star-gazing. "You feeling okay?"

"I should ask you the same, Jaden," she responded worriedly. She knew and heard the conversation that happened earlier, doing her part to empty the area for his privacy. "You usually turn sullen after speaking about your more traumatic aspects of your childhood," she glanced up, into a pair of dulled brown orbs.

He looked back down towards the worried look on his spirit's face; noting that her silver hair seemed a lot more tamer than the usual wild, bed-hair look she sports. He noted she had foregone her usual outfit, dressing in a form-fitting, alluring black silk dress that hugged her form and enhanced her natural curves. Similar to Trix earlier, he noticed the small slit up the side of her left leg; revealing that she had also foregone wearing any underwear under the dress. She took a note of his subtle blush and smirked playfully, happy to see him gazing at her so strongly.

"While I'm a little emotional still, I'm doing better. The company also helps when they look just as beautiful as the stars we're gazing at~" he smoothly complimented, earning a small smile in response and a small soft tinkling laugh.

"Still able to make little ol' me blush after all this time~" she shook her head playfully, nuzzling it into his shoulder and wrapping her hand into his, and placed it on her right hip. "I have a small surprise for you as well, Jaden, that might just help turn your mood around~" she commented cryptically, earning a raised eyebrow. She shook her silver hair a few times, keeping his attention squarely on her as she walked backward in front of him. Taking his hand to lead him, the two made their way back towards the poolside deck, much to his confusion and excitement.

~Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran~

Jaden's head tilted upwards, noting three of his male spirits and sole canine duel spirits resting a little ways away. The largest of the three figures lifted a small cellphone, showing that it had been connected to a small speaker; playing soft music for them.

He shook his head, laughing warmly at the gesture as he turned his head back to the smiling silverette beauty in front of him. Allowing one of his true smiles to appear on his face, he gently took the silverette by the waist and pulled her tightly to him. In turn, her arms snaked up his torso before locking behind his neck; allowing the two of them to join together intimately for this moment of theirs.

When your legs don't work like they used to before,
And I can't sweep you off of your feet.
Will your mouth still remember the taste of my love?
Will your eyes still smile from your cheeks?

Darling, I will be loving you 'til we're seventy.
And baby, my heart could still fall as hard at seventeen!

He sang to her, making her heterochromia eyes shine slightly from the warmth of his words and the lull of his voice meaning every word he sang. Feeling her cheek cupped by his warm hand, she immediately nuzzled it in response; admiring the tenderness and affection behind the gesture. Her heart burst in a swell of emotion, smiling beautifully for him as her eyes showed nothing but love for him. He found his worries ebbing away, enjoying this special night with his longest-known duel spirit and his best friend.

And I'm thinking 'bout how people fall in love in mysterious ways;
Maybe just the touch of a hand.
Oh me? I fall in love with you every single day!
And I just wanna tell you I am...

He closed the distance further, resting her forehead against hers while slowly swaying together. A healthy blush rested on her face as she stared into his eyes, the shivers of delight dancing up and down her spine as she held him this way.

So honey, now,
Take me into your loving arms,
Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars,
Place your head on my beating heart.

I'm thinking out loud;
Maybe we found love right where we are.

She closed her eyes, overwhelmed by this moment as she fought to keep her tears back; knowing she would burst out crying in his arms if she wasn't careful. Placing a finger on his lips with a small loving grin, she revealed her slightly sharpened canines yet not subtracting the beauty she exuded. Moving the hand back to join her matching partner around his neck, she softly closed her eyes and surprised both Jaden and onlookers alike when she started to sing.

When your hair's all but gone and your memory fades,
And the crowds don't remember your name.
When your hands don't play the cards the same way,
Oh, baby, I know you will still love me the same~

'Cause baby, your soul can never grow old; it's evergreen!
And honey, your smile's forever in my mind and memory!

Jaden's eyes widened in awe, never hearing her sing the entire time he had known her. What shocked him was just how melodic and hypnotizing her voice truly was, and just how much raw emotion was coming out of the usually-shy duel spirit in front of him. Yet, just one look as he gazed deep into her heterochromia eyes, he saw the raw emotions and the unspoken words she was conveying to him.

I'm thinking 'bout how people fall in love in mysterious ways;
Maybe it's all part of a plan?
I'll just keep on making the same mistakes,
Hoping that you'll understand.

But baby, now,
Take me into your loving arms,
Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars,
Rest your head on my beating heart.

I'm thinking out loud;
That maybe we found love right where we are.

Jaden smiled warmly to his partner, lifting her suddenly and spinning around, placing her back on her feet, and dancing with each other for the instrumental part of the song. The two of them idly noted it had been looped, allowing them to dance without any restraint. The two laughed freely and smiled warmly with one another as they both danced around the edge of the pool, gliding bare-foot over the wooden decking. Over where the other duel spirits sat down to watch the couple dance, the tallest of the three smiled as he looked on at them.

"They act so distant at times but seeing them like this is something incredible, you know?" he rhetorically asked, sat down on the deck as he softly scratched behind the sole dog's ears. The bigger of the three smiled in response, crossing his legs while eating a baguette he bought from the cafeteria downstairs.

"I hear ya, Jack. J-Man always skirted the boards with Yubel 'cause of her link to Haou. He still doesn't realize she's feeling the same hesitance, y'know?" he followed up, taking another bite and quickly swallowing it. "Both should get over their hang-ups and enjoy this kinda happiness."

"It's easier said than done, though," a new female voice spoke up, walking up to the others with Trix, Ayumi, and Kiyomi following just behind her. Her shaggy blonde hair tied wrapped loosely into a ponytail, falling over her shoulder and her white blouse. Choosing to sling her work jacket over her shoulder, she pushed a bang of hair out of the way of her hazel eyes and took in the scene of the dancing couple.

"You gotta remember that both of them had experiences that left them vulnerable and stunted to be open about their emotions. Both of them are afraid of who they open up to. Jaden struggles, knowing she may still have feelings for Haou. Yubel struggles with her feelings for Jaden and making sure that they're genuine. It'll take time but this is a good step to gaining each other's trust and working through their issues to find that happiness. There's absolutely no mistaking the love that's there, though~" she smiled softly, sitting on the sunbed next to everyone and settled for watching the dancing duo.

The two laughed loudly and freely, their breathing harsh and greedy as their bodies burned and their hearts filled with joy and contentment. Calming themselves down, the two moved closer to one another again in sync, singing in a beautiful duet.

So baby, now,
Pull me into your loving arms.
Take me under the light of a thousand stars,
Oh darling, rest your head on my beating heart!

I'm thinking out loud;
That maybe we found love right where we are.
Oh baby we found love right where we are!
Baby, we found love right where we are~

The two settled down as they both found themselves staring into each other's eyes; Yubel noting the shine had come back to his gorgeous eyes during the dance and found herself smitten by them, her tongue slightly darting out to lick her dry lips. She felt so comfortable in his arms; the entire dance felt so smooth and so natural with him that it scared her, and also excited her at the same time. She knew her flaws and her faults, the only thing that truly kept her back from giving him her all; but one day~

Jaden had lost himself in her mixed eyes, a tender smile appearing on his face as he watched her lick her lips while glancing towards his own a few times. Understanding the cue, he pulled her closer and dipped his head, closing his lips around hers. Her toes visibly curled as she arched her back backward, pushing herself into him as her eyes fluttered close to savor this kiss, and this entire evening, to memory. While kissing softly for a good few minutes, both knew they needed to breathe and softly pulled away, settling for gazing at one another.

He couldn't wipe the smile off his face, making Yubel blush even more, before cupping her cheek once more. They stayed like that before she reluctantly pulled away from him, keeping her hands in his.

"I need to go, sadly. But thank you for the most wonderful evening, Jaden. I shall cherish this memory and this first kiss of mine for the rest of my life~" she smiled tenderly, letting go of his hands and fading back into her spirit form, watching her wings shimmer back into view. "I'll keep status on the island and the condition of the others but for now, just relax and rest easy, okay?" she requested. He nodded his head slightly, not needing to say anything more to her. She gave him a small parting wave before fading from view, already missing him.

He let loose a shuddering breath, ridding himself of all the bad emotions and feelings within him, and simply grinned broadly, feeling better than he had been for a while. Moving back to the other duel spirits, he decided to take an hour or two to catch up with them all.

Unknown to him, Jennifer watched the dancing couple for the entirety of the song after she heard one of her favorite songs start playing from beside the pool area. She was awed by the visage of the two figures dancing with one another but it brought an honest smile to her face as she could see the love the two had for one another as they danced. She had guessed it was one of his duel spirits, simply by the way he interacted with her and the trust between the two of them. Nevertheless, she watched him move over to the rest of his duel spirits and decided to turn in for the night, letting him enjoy this wonderful moment.

~End of Part I~

So this is one of the major changes from the original! I had added and changed so much that the finished word count was well over twenty THOUSAND! As such, I decided to split the chapter here and have it in two halves: hence the additional titles! Since I could get away with two separate chapters, without detracting from the flow of the story or the increase of chapters? I wanted to.

Now, I might get a lot of feedback regarding the sudden and immediate closeness and physical affection between them both. And my response is simple:

It just be like that, sometimes.

As someone who is a physical person and adores giving hugs to anyone I meet, and knowing people just like me; the chance of two similar-minded people meeting up and showing their concern and empathy via physical touch isn't too far-fetched. Plus, depending on their own opinions and viewpoints, the idea of being friendly and physically close with someone of the opposite, or even the same, gender isn't a bad thing. Some people are hard-wired that way!

With that said, I'll catch you all in part two! :3