~~Hello readers, I'm back with a new chapter.
I do not own Yugioh Zexal.
Only my original characters belong to me.~~
It was still early morning.
The sun was still shining brightly in the courtyard on this Sunday afternoon.
Tori, Bronk, Dark Mist, and I were about to watch the duel between Yuma and Shark.
I sat on the bench with Tori and Bronk on each side of me.
Dark Mist hovered behind me and asked quietly. "Sioku, how are you feeling?"
"Your concern means a lot Dark Mist. I feel much better now," I answered.
That nightmare was becoming easier for me to forget because I had all of my friends around.
Yuma and Shark were standing at both ends of the dueling field.
Shark smirked at Yuma and started. "You actually showed up? I hope you said your good byes, because your cards will be all mine."
"There he goes again," I grumbled while giving Shark a disgusted look.
Yuma threw a piercing glare at Shark and shouted back. "You bet I did, and all you're getting is an old fashioned butt kicking!"
"You tell him Yuma," I cheered before I laughed out loud.
The purple haired boy glared at me, but I didn't care.
Shark just grinned at him and asked. "Why is that?"
Yuma pulled out his duel gazer and a deck of cards.
"I'm feeling the flow!" he hollered.
I started shaking with excitement after hearing him say that.
"Yuma is so darn cute," I thought.
Dark Mist chuckled at my reaction to Yuma's voice.
"That catch phrase really suits his energetic personality," I said dreamily.
"I agree," Dark Mist replied.
"Duel disc, Go! Duel gazer, let's roll!" called Yuma.
Yuma and Shark activated their duel discs, and the AR world came to life.
"Duel interphase set," Yuma called out.
"Augmented reality vision link established," said the AR voice.
I let out a dreamy sigh and then commented. "That voice is so peaceful. I would actually like Type to Learn if it had the AR voice instead of that creepy one."
"Yay Yuma! Win this!" cheered Tori.
Dark Mist gasped in awe while staring at the field.
"I can't wait to watch this duel Sioku," he said happily.
I watched as his face lit up with joy.
The child like innocence I saw in him earlier had returned.
"Dark Mist you're adorable," I said before I laughed out loud.
He grinned at me in response.
"Let's duel!" the boys shouted in unison.
Yuma drew the first card and looked at Shark.
"Get set to get decked! I draw! I'll summon Zubaba Knight! You're going down Shark!" he shouted.
I chuckled at Yuma's comment and then said in amusement. "I've never heard that one before."
Zubaba Knight took its place on Yuma's side of the field.
"Of course since I went first, I can't attack. I end my turn. Go ahead, it's your move," Yuma said confidently.
"You got that right! And with it, I plan to crown that knight," Shark replied.
I stared at the floor and sighed in annoyance.
This bully was getting on my nerves.
Shark drew his first card and called out. "I'll summon forth Big Jaws!"
A shark with huge jaws appeared on the field.
"Wo, that monster looks awesome! I just wish it didn't belong to a bully like Shark," I commented while staring at it.
"It definitely looks frightening," replied Dark Mist.
Yuma looked at the gear and groaned with a worried expression. "Man, 1800 attack points!"
"That's right Yuma, and now you're in some deep water. Your Zubaba Knight only has 1600 attack points. When these two monsters fight, the difference in their attack points comes out of the losing owner's life points as damage," Shark answered in a boastful way.
Yuma looked down at his gear and frowned.
"Awe great, so that means I'm going to lose 200 life points," he said sadly.
Shark smirked at Yuma and answered. "You should have put your weak monster in defense mode."
"This kid is so annoying," I said quietly while glaring at Shark.
"Stay calm Sioku," replied Dark Mist.
I smiled warmly at the celestial being.
Shark then played a card from his hand and added. "Before my monster attacks you, I'll equip Big Jaws with the spell card Aqua Jet. It gives my monster 1000 more attack points until the end of the turn."
I heard Shark's little followers cheering for him on the other side.
"Those kids need to get a life of their own," I commented while glaring at them.
"Now Big Jaws, it's feeding time! Attack," yelled Shark.
I watched in fear as Shark's monster rose from 1800 to 2800 attack points.
"Oh no... hear it comes Yuma! Look out!" I hollered fearfully.
"Thanks Sioku," Yuma replied.
Yuma sadly watched as his knight disappeared from the field after being destroyed by Big Jaws.
Big Jaws' attack points lowered back down to 1800 as soon as the spell wore off.
"Now I'll set a card face down and end my turn," Shark said while placing the card into a slot on his duel disc.
Yuma then started to doubt himself as his life points dropped.
I couldn't help but feel bad for him.
"Don't let your guard down Yuma! You've got this," I said encouragingly.
Yuma gave me a thumbs up in response.
He then drew a new card from his deck and said excitedly. "I've got it! I'll summon out Gagaga Magician."
Yuma's magician monster took its place on his side of the field.
Shark grinned at the magician's low number of attack points and replied. "You're summoning him with just 1500 attack points? You really don't listen, do you?"
"Don't let that bully get to you Yuma," I said encouragingly.
"I sure do! It won't be weak for long. I'll equip my magician with the spell card Wonder Wand. This gives my monster 500 extra attack points," Yuma answered while playing a card from his hand.
The magician's attack points rose from 1500 to 2000.
"All right! Now Gagaga is stronger than Big Jaws," Tori cheered.
"Go get him Yuma," I added with a smile.
"Go mighty magician, let's reel in this fish!" shouted Yuma confidently.
Unfortunately, Yuma's magician didn't get a chance to attack Big Jaws.
Shark suddenly played his face down card and said. "Why don't you try and get reeled? I'm activating this trap card, Zeus' Breath. Not only is your attack negated, you also take 800 points of damage since there's a water monster on my field!"
"Be careful Yuma," I warned.
Yuma fell backward as he was hit by a rush of water.
His life points dropped down even further.
"Oh boy," Yuma said as he stood up.
"I can't help but wonder if this Shark boy is cheating," I whispered to Dark Mist.
"I think not Sioku," Dark mist replied.
Yuma placed a card face down in a slot on his duel disc and replied to Shark. "Since you like to play trap cards, I'll play one too!"
Bronk gave Yuma a disappointed look and hollered with irritation. "Yuma! You can play two types of face downs, spell and trap cards! Never reveal which one it is!"
I giggled at the sound of Bronk's hollering.
Tori let out a growl of frustration and yelled. "Get it together!"
Dark Mist seemed amused by my laughter.
"I'm glad to see you enjoying yourself Sioku," he said.
I smiled warmly at him and replied. "I sure am, this duel is fun to watch."
Shark drew a card from his deck and said. "A trap card? That's no big deal, it's my draw now. I summon Skull Kraken!"
A huge crocodile appeared on the field next to Big Jaws.
"Six-hundred attack points, that's no prob. Gagaga Magician is still the strongest monster on the field," Yuma replied.
"Don't let Shark push you around Yuma!" I called to him.
"Stay out of this Shorty!" yelled Shark while glaring at me.
"Do not respond Sioku," whispered Dark Mist.
I lowered my head and sighed in frustration.
"I'm sorry Dark Mist, but I can't stand watching Yuma get bullied out there! It's not right," I said sadly.
"I'm sure Yuma appreciates your encouragement," Dark Mist replied softly.
I took a deep breath while staring into my celestial friend's eyes.
"Thanks for your help Dark Mist. I don't know what I would do without you by my side," I added.
Shark pointed to his Skull Kraken and said. "Not for long, I'm activating Skull Kraken's special ability. I can destroy one face up spell or trap card on your field, and I choose that Wonder Wand."
Gagaga Magician's attack points returned to 1500 as the spell card disappeared.
"Oh no," Yuma groaned in disbelief.
"Yuma," whispered Tori worriedly.
"Not good," said Bronk to Tori.
Bronk had a frightened expression on his face.
Tory turned to her anxious friend and asked. "Why?"
"Shark's got two monsters on the field now! Shark brought out those same monsters before he beat me! He must be planning to XYZ's summon! If he does that, there's no way Yuma could win this," Bronk answered fearfully.
Sensing the distress in Bronk's voice, I gently put a hand on his shoulder.
"Calm down Bronk, we shouldn't give up on Yuma just because his situation is tough. With the high amount of spirit Yuma has, I'm sure he'll find a way to win this fight," I said smoothly.
"Thank you Sioku," Bronk replied.
"Believing in Yuma like that is very sweet of you Sioku," added Tori.
I gave her a warm smile in response.
Shark threw a piercing glare at Yuma and said furiously. "You fool! Did you really think that you could beat me, the best of the best, and win Bronk's deck back?"
I gave Shark a disgusted look and commented. "That kid really needs to stop pushing people around. His ego is way out of control."
Dark Mist nodded his head in agreement.
Yuma lowered his head in shame and answered quietly. "Yeah, I actually did."
He then began thinking to himself.
"I stomped your little key to pieces, and now I'm going to stomp you! This duel is over Yuma! Once I get your dueling deck, I'm going to trash it just like I trashed your key. Don't pick fights you can't win," continued Shark.
Shark's rude comments caused my blood to boil inside.
Dark Mist sensed my rising anger and floated over to my left side.
"Calm down Sioku," he urged softly.
However, I didn't listen to him.
I jumped up from the bench with anger flaring up inside me.
"That's enough Shark! You've gone too far! Stop bullying Yuma this instant!" I screamed with rage.
Shark just turned his head away.
"You need to sit down Sioku," said Bronk.
I wouldn't confront Shark if I were you," Tori warned.
I took a minute to process what my friends had just said.
I then reluctantly sat down on the bench and sighed.
"You guys are right," I whispered.
"We appreciate your help Sioku," Bronk replied calmly.
"We don't want to see you get hurt," Tori added.
I took a deep breath and looked at my friends.
"I'm really sorry for scaring you guys. I don't want to see Yuma get pushed around anymore! He doesn't deserve that! Yuma helped me out, and now I need to "help him," I said sadly.
Bronk gently put a hand on my shoulder and replied. "I know Sioku, we feel the same way."
I relaxed at the softness in his voice.
"I understand how you feel," added Tori.
Dark Mist quietly observed the interaction between my friends and me.
"Sioku's friends really do care about her," he thought.
We sat in silence and continued watching the duel.
"That's where you're wrong Shark! No matter how many times I fall or get laughed at, I'll keep trying to high five the sky and feel the flow! Speaking of feeling the flow, I so am!" Yuma hollered confidently.
That spirit filled catch phrase caused my heart to flutter.
I jumped up and said with a huge grin on my face. "Yuma's enthusiasm is just as beautiful as ever! You go Yuma, take him down!"
Suddenly, Yuma looked down and saw his key starting to glow.
"Wo, what's going on here?" he wondered out loud.
I curiously looked at Yuma's golden key and then back at my friends.
"Wo, look at Yuma's pendent!" I hollered.
Tori's eyes widened in surprise as she replied. "Wow, it's glowing!"
"I wonder what's going on here," said Bronk.
I turned around to see Dark Mist looking weary about the sudden change in events.
"Hey Dark Mist, are you all right?" I asked smoothly.
"No Sioku, something's wrong," he answered.
I gave him a look of concern and continued. "Can you tell me what's bothering you?"
"I sense that Astral is coming," he answered in a frightened tone.
Dark Mist hovered closer to my side than he normally would.
"This is unusual," I thought.
I noticed that he was shaking and breathing heavily.
"Hey, it's okay Dark Mist. Try to calm down," I said soothingly.
He started to relax at the sound of my voice.
"Stay focused on the duel," I whispered.
The usual peaceful aura around him returned once again.
"Please don't go anywhere Dark Mist. I never want you to wander off by yourself. Something bad could happen to you at any moment," I said lovingly.
He just nodded in response.
Dark Mist then leaned against my side and closed his eyes.
I couldn't help but smile at how adorable he looked.
My mind flashed back to a moment when Pegasus and I were snuggled up on the couch watching a movie.
Tori turned to me and asked with a worried expression. "Sioku, what just happened? Is everything all right?"
"Dark Mist probably had a flashback, but he's okay now," I answered.
"You and Dark Mist are quite similar," said Bronk.
"That explains how he and I are already best friends," I replied before I giggled.
"I couldn't help but notice that you act like a mother to your new friend Sioku," Tori pointed out.
"Oh thanks Tori, Dark Mist and I are each other's guardian. He has changed my life for the better," I replied while blushing.
A mysterious voice echoed in Shark's mind. "Yes Shark, let the number take hold."
Shark obeyed its command and continued his turn.
"I overlay Big Jaws and Skull Kraken! Now, I can build the overlay network! Now that I have, I can summon Number 17, Leviathan Dragon!" he called out.
The two water monsters disappeared from the field, and a huge dragon appeared in its place.
The dragon let out a loud roar.
Dark Mist was startled out of his thoughts and opened his eyes.
"I'm still here Dark Mist," I assured.
Yuma's eyes grew wide with shock as he stared at Leviathan's stats on the screen.
He stood completely still and didn't say a single word.
Bronk and Tori were startled by its dangerous appearance.
Dark Mist remained silent as he studied the creature.
"Shark has a number card as well Sioku," whispered Dark Mist.
"I still don't understand what those number cards are for," I replied.
Tori looked at the monster with a terrified expression.
"Wo, I've never seen that thing before!" she said fearfully.
"What's with the whole number thing?" asked Bronk.
Hearing Bronk's voice made the situation lighter for me.
"I like the way you said that," I commented before laughing.
"By using one overlay unit, I can power up Leviathan Dragon by 500 points," said Shark.
Yuma watched Leviathan's attack points go up.
"Leviathan Dragon! Attack with shock stream blast," Shark ordered.
The dragon struck Yuma with a powerful shock wave causing him to fall over.
"Please get up Yuma!" I hollered.
Yuma struggled to pull himself up.
Unfortunately, the dragon's attack weakened him.
"That's some dragon, so much for a come back," he said in disappointment.
"Don't give up Yuma," I said encouragingly.
Yuma gave me a thumbs up in response.
"This duel is just about done! One more attack and you're through," Shark replied.
To my surprise, I saw a blue celestial being floating down to Yuma's side.
The being's thin body had blue gems and green markings all over it.
One of his eyes had a luminous gold color, and the other was completely white.
His blue hair was curled up in a mohawk.
Silver ear rings dangled from his pointed ears.
"This guy actually looks pretty cute. I'm guessing that's Astral," I whispered.
"Rise," he commanded in a low voice.
"This being sounds exactly like you Dark Mist," I pointed out.
There was no response from my celestial friend.
A look of terror had replaced his usually calm smile.
Dark Mist just hovered next to me in one spot.
He almost looked motionless to me.
I turned to him and said with a frantic expression. "Dark Mist, are you all right? Please say something!"
Dark Mist continued to remain still and silent.
"Oh no, Dark Mist is in trouble. I have no way to help him," I said sadly.
Tori put a hand on my shoulder and asked. "What's going on Sioku?
"Something's wrong with Dark Mist," I answered.
"It's probably that mind control spell you told us about," added Bronk.
I lowered my head in realization.
"I think you're right," I replied sadly.
Yuma looked up at the being and asked curiously. "Who are you?"
"Astral," the being answered.
Yuma stared at him in confusion and continued. "What's an Astral?"
"I am Astral," he answered again.
Bronk stared at Yuma as if he was going crazy.
"Who are you talking to Yuma?" he asked.
"Yeah, I don't see anyone there," continued Tori while looking around.
"Wait you guys, I know who Yuma is talking about! I can see him," I said to my friends.
Dark Mist jumped at the sound of that particular name.
"I knew it Sioku! Astral is here!" he hollered.
My celestial friend's face returned to the terrified look he had a few minutes ago.
I clearly sensed the distress in his voice.
"I see him as well. Try to relax Dark Mist," I urged calmly.
However, my words couldn't get through to him.
Dark Mist was too overcome by fear and anxiety.
I could tell that he was about to have another flashback.
"Stay with me Dark Mist!" I called out.
There was no response from my friend.
Suddenly, I spotted a glowing beam of energy rapidly floating toward Dark Mist.
"Dark Mist, look out!" I shouted protectively.
Dark Mist still couldn't listen to me.
His fear of Don Thousand's mind control spell had completely taken over him.
Bronk and Tori turned their attention away from Yuma to look at the mysterious beam.
"What is that thing?" asked Bronk.
"Whatever it is, it can't be good! Get back everyone!" I hollered.
My friends just stared at me with confused expressions on their faces.
I stood in the energy beam's way in order to shield all of my friends from the danger it might bring.
"It's coming right toward you Sioku! Get out of the way!" yelled Bronk.
"Come sit down Sioku," Tori added.
"No! I must protect you guys and Dark Mist!" I hollered back.
Unfortunately, the energy beam flew past me and hit Dark Mist directly.
He let out a frightened yelp as the energy beam came in contact with him.
I gasped in terror as I watched him fight against the glowing beam.
The energy beam zapped Dark Mist violently as it locked onto him.
"Dark Mist! No!" I cried.
My failure to protect Dark Mist crashed into me like an ocean wave.
However, I didn't let it get to me.
I knew deep down that the fight was far from over.
Dark Mist screamed in pain as the energy beam continued to zap and began pulling him toward Astral.
"Help me Sioku! Sioku! Don't let me absorb him! he screamed desperately.
Tears welled up in my eyes as I watched him float away.
Hearing Dark Mist suffer like that made my heart sink to the floor.
I almost couldn't contain my emotions at this point.
The celestial being who offered me his emotional support after the incident with Julie in English class, the one who encouraged me to finish the race in PE, the one who kept my sanity from fading during computer class, and the one who calmed me down after I had a terrible nightmare was about to disappear forever and take Astral with him.
I wasn't going to let that happen.
My heart just wouldn't allow it.
"I'm coming for you Dark Mist!" I called out.
Without thinking, I jumped up from the bench and ran after him.
"Sioku! Come back!" Tori and Bronk called out in unison.
I had no intention of responding to my friends.
My mind was fully focused on rescuing Dark Mist.
Dark Mist had been there for me during multiple situations, and now I needed to be there for him.
Losing Dark Mist permanently would drag me back into the deep hole of depression that I had been trapped in before I met Yuma and his friends.
"Please hang in there Dark Mist! I won't let it happen!" I hollered again.
Dark Mist led me straight to Astral who was still floating beside Yuma.
"Astral! Yuma! Please stay as far back as you possibly can!" I shouted.
Yuma gasped as he looked at me.
"Sioku, what's going on?" he asked.
"Dark Mist is being forced to absorb Astral! I need to get him out of here before the situation gets any worse," I answered fearfully.
Astral stared at me with a worried expression.
"I don't understand what is happening," he said.
"You don't have to worry Astral. I've got it under control," I assured him.
Yuma's eyes grew wide as he gasped in surprise.
"What does that mean? Wait Sioku! You can see and hear Astral too?" he said with excitement.
"Yes, but I can't tell you anything right now," I answered.
Yuma gasped in surprise as he looked over at Dark Mist who was still struggling to free himself from the powerful beam of energy.
"No way! I can also see Dark Mist," Yuma replied.
"We're in the middle of a duel Shorty! Quit the nonsense and leave this area!" Yelled Shark.
"Shut up and mind your own business bully!" I yelled back.
Dark Mist let out another scream as the force pulled him closer to Astral.
"You must distract Astral Yuma! Hurry!" I shouted with a bit of frustration.
"Right," Yuma replied as he took off running.
Astral sensed the presence of Dark Mist being controled by the energy beam.
"Yuma! Something bad is coming for me!" Astral yelled in the boy's direction.
I perked up at the high pitch in Astral's voice.
"Don't worry Astral, I'll protect you! Let's go," Yuma replied.
Yuma sprinted after Astral as he continued floating away from Dark Mist.
This unexpected force wasn't going to let up any time soon.
My face saddened as I watched Dark Mist slowly lose his strength.
"There's not much time left Sioku!" my celestial friend hollered.
"I will save you Dark Mist!" I yelled back.
I continued chasing Dark Mist around the field in an attempt to reach him.
"Get away from the dueling field Sioku! You could get hurt!" shouted Bronk.
I felt my stubborn side begin to take over.
"No Bronk, I refuse to leave him! Dark Mist is fighting for his life! I'm not going anywhere until he is with me again," I replied angrily.
"Bronk is right Sioku," called Tori.
I just shook my head at the girl.
Dark Mist's safety was more important to me than anything else in this moment.
I gasped as an idea popped into my head.
I finally cornered him by a fence near Shark.
"Dark Mist, I know how to get you away from Astral! You must wrap your tendrils around me right now," I said urgently.
Dark Mist stopped and looked straight at me.
"Sioku, will this idea work?" Dark Mist replied weakly.
"You bet it will! That energy beam won't get you when I'm around," I answered confidently.
Listening to my voice, Dark Mist began to relax and hovered in front of me.
"You're very strong Dark Mist," I praised calmly.
He smiled at me in response.
With new found determination, Dark Mist stared up at the energy beam and hollered. "I will not absorb you Astral!"
I looked up and noticed the energy beam floating away from Dark Mist.
Astral paused in confusion and looked at Yuma.
"Yuma, what was that all about?" he wondered.
"I'm not sure," Yuma replied.
"You did it Dark Mist! You really are a true fighter," I said with a smile.
"It wouldn't have happened if you weren't here to assist me Sioku," he whispered.
Yuma gave me a concerned look and asked. "Sioku, are you sure about letting Dark Mist use his power on you?"
"Don't worry Yuma, he's done it to me once already. I promise, it's not harmful at all. This is the only way I can set him free," I answered reassuringly.
"Be careful Sioku," he replied, the concerned look still present on his face.
Dark Mist silently did as he was told.
I felt his energy getting weaker by the second.
My celestial friend looked as if he didn't have much strength left.
"You can do it Dark Mist," I said encouragingly.
I shivered slightly when his tendrils came in contact with my skin, but it didn't bother me at all.
I let out a dreamy sigh and thought. "I was wondering when this would happen again."
I then looked over at Dark Mist who was struggling to keep the remainder of his energy from draining.
"You don't look so good. Come here Dark Mist," I said soothingly.
He leaned against my side while panting heavily.
"Sioku," he replied weakly.
I noticed that his energy level had decreased dramatically.
"I'm right here Dark Mist. You're okay," I reassured.
He looked up at me in response.
I led Dark Mist to a nearby fence and sat down on the floor.
Dark Mist hovered by my left side.
We stayed in that spot for a few minutes.
"Yuma, do not bring Astral over here. That beam of light appeared as soon as Dark Mist and Astral saw each other," I called to him.
"You got it Sioku," Yuma called back.
He then rejoined Shark at the dueling field.
"It took you long enough," said Shark with a glare.
"I was helping my friend!" Yuma shouted angrily.
I felt my blood boil again at Shark's rudeness.
This kid was now on my last nerve.
"That boy just doesn't know when to quit," I whispered.
I looked up and saw the energy beam fade out of sight.
"I think the bad energy is gone now," I said to Dark Mist with a relieved smile.
However, Dark Mist was too weak to respond.
I stood up carefully in order to prevent myself from startling him.
"I'll see you and Astral later. Best of luck on the duel Yuma," I said before I ran off.
"Bye Sioku," Yuma called back.
With Dark Mist firmly connected to me, I quickly exited the courtyard.
I felt his body shaking against mine as he struggled to calm himself down.
"You're going to be okay Dark Mist. I promise," I said softly.
My words soothed him enough to let my voice sink in.
Tori and Bronk immediately caught up to me.
"Tori, Bronk, I need your help! Astral has arrived to assist Yuma during his duel with Shark," I said frantically.
"Calm down Sioku, who is Astral?" asked Tori.
Bronk gave me a confused look and added. "What are we supposed to do?"
"Astral is Yuma's new celestial friend. I can't explain the situation between Astral and Dark Mist right now. All I can tell you is that Yuma cannot be anywhere near me. You guys need to stay here and cheer him on," I answered.
Tori gave me a curious look as she continued. "Bronk and I planned on staying here anyway. Where are you going Sioku?"
"Dark Mist and I are going home," I answered.
I looked back at him to make sure he was okay.
He seemed a bit calmer than before we left the courtyard.
"Dark Mist is breathing easier now," I whispered in relief.
"We'll see you tomorrow at school," said Tori.
"Have a good rest of the day Sioku," Bronk added.
"Thanks, you guys do the same. Let me know if Yuma wins the duel," I replied.
My friends waved at me before they walked back to the courtyard.
By this time, the nightmare I had was completely non existent.
I could no longer hear or feel the effects of it.
My walk home was mostly silent.
All I could think about was helping Dark Mist recover from this terrifying event.
I looked at Dark Mist and asked with a sympathetic expression. "Are you still able to sense Astral?"
Dark Mist took a deep breath in relief.
"No Sioku," he whispered.
Dark Mist seemed to be more relaxed now that we were away from the duel.
His peaceful aura started to return.
"Sioku, you put your life on the line to save both Astral and myself. Thank you for rescuing us," he said sincerely.
"You're very welcome Dark Mist, I would do anything to save your life. You already mean so much to me," I replied.
I heard Pegasus barking loudly as we approached the front porch of my house.
The dog's high pitched bark made me laugh.
"You must release me now Dark Mist," I said softly.
He did so without a word.
I happily entered the house with Dark Mist floating behind me.
"Hello Sisters," I called.
Pegasus jumped on me while whimpering in excitement.
"Come here Pegasus," I cheered while lifting the dog into my arms.
The dog licked my face in response.
I happily carried him into the living room.
I then plopped down on one of the couches.
Looking up at the clock, I noticed that it read 4:00 PM.
"The time must have flown by faster than I thought," I whispered.
I turned around to see Dark Mist hovering behind me.
"Don't worry Dark Mist, I'm still here," I thought.
He lowered his head in a tired way.
My celestial friend's tiredness really shocked me.
I was not used to seeing him like that.
His encounter with Astral really took a lot out of him.
"Hey Sioku," greeted Kara.
I released Pegasus and allowed him to get comfortable beside me.
Pegasus curled up next to me and sighed.
"Good boy Pegasus," I softly praised.
I gently pet the little dog as he started to drift off.
I then looked up at my older sister who was sitting on a different couch.
"Hi Kara, how is your day going?" I replied.
"Mostly quiet," she answered.
"I'm guessing Pegasus broke some of the silence by barking," I said before I giggled.
"Yeah, he did," she replied in annoyance.
In the midst of our conversation, Lynn entered the room.
"Hi Lynn," Kara greeted.
"Hey Kara," Lynn replied before she sat next to me.
I noticed that her hair was pulled back into two long braids.
"That hair style looks great on you Lynn," I complemented.
"Thank you Sioku," she replied with a bright smile.
Pegasus woke up and shook his head.
Lynn playfully ruffled Pegasus' long fur.
Pegasus nipped at her in response.
Dark Mist smiled in amusement as he watched Lynn play with Pegasus.
He seemed to enjoy listening to Pegasus' playful growl.
"I'm glad to see you smiling again Dark Mist," I thought.
Kara pointed to the dog and said sternly. "I don't want that dog to have an accident on the couch. Sioku, will you please take him outside?"
I blushed while trying to hold back laughter.
Dark Mist noticed my red cheeks and started to laugh.
Kara's comment almost made me laugh out loud.
I gently lowered Pegasus to the floor.
The dog shook off with excitement.
"I sure will," I answered happily.
Kara then pointed to Lynn and added. "I need you to help me make dinner."
"Okay," Lynn replied before standing up.
She and Kara then walked into the kitchen.
I stood up from the couch and commanded. "Come on Pegasus, let's go out."
"You should come too Dark Mist," I thought.
"All right Sioku," he replied softly.
Pegasus immediately followed me as I walked toward the back door.
Dark Mist quickly floated after us.
I slid the glass door open and said to my sisters. "I'll be back soon."
"Okay," replied Kara.
With Dark Mist floating behind me, Pegasus and I stepped outside.
Pegasus took off as usual once I closed the glass door.
I began to walk a few laps around the yard.
It felt good to finally get away from all of that chaos back at the courtyard.
Looking behind me, I noticed that Dark Mist wasn't following me as quick as he normally would.
"Let's go to the porch Dark Mist," I suggested with concern.
He nodded before we proceeded.
I sat down in that same wooden chair with Dark Mist hovering at my left side.
He let out a sigh of exhaustion and said remorsefully. "I'm sorry Sioku, I do not feel well right now."
Dark Mist lowered his head and continued to breathe heavily.
"Dark Mist, please try to relax. I don't want you collapsing on me," I replied softly.
The softness in my voice caused him to look up at me.
"Stay with me Dark Mist," I added.
He then closed his eyes tightly and started to shake uncontrollably.
Not knowing exactly how to help him sent me into panic mode.
"Oh no, Dark Mist? Say something!" I hollered desperately.
There was no response from him.
Seeing Dark Mist like that weighed heavy on my heart.
However, I knew that letting my emotions take over would only make the situation worse.
I took a minute to think about what was happening.
"Maybe there isn't anything I can do about this. Just like my flashbacks, I probably have to let it pass. I'll be here for Dark Mist when he comes out of it," I said quietly to myself.
I silently prayed for my celestial friend to break free of the pain he was feeling.
Five minutes had past, and I noticed a good change in Dark Mist.
His breathing had slowed down to a normal pace.
He wasn't shaking anymore, but his eyes were still closed.
I saw my perfect opportunity to talk to him again.
"Hey Dark Mist," I said lovingly.
It took a minute for him to respond.
He slowly opened his eyes and looked up at me.
"Sioku, is that you?" Dark Mist replied timidly.
I turned to him and answered with a soft but concerned expression. "Yes, it's me, what just happened to you?"
Dark Mist almost looked hesitant to answer my question.
"I had a major flashback about my capture by Don Thousand," he answered.
My heart sank as I stared into his eyes.
"I'm so sorry Dark Mist," I said sympathetically.
Dark Mist's facial expression changed from a look of terror to one of remorse as he replied. "No Sioku, I'm sorry for dragging you into this mess. I should have been able to handle the situation on my own."
I lowered my eyes at his words.
A million thoughts crashed into my mind all at once.
I was afraid that he would leave in order to protect me from danger in the future.
"Dark Mist, you didn't drag me into anything. I agreed to stay by your side. No one deserves to handle a terrible situation like that on their own," I said softly.
He didn't seem convinced by my words of reassurance.
"Sioku! I don't want to put you in harm's way by accident," he argued.
My heart began to race as I straightened myself up.
Tears of sadness welled up in my eyes as I faced him.
"What are you saying Dark Mist? Do you want to leave? If you do, that's not going to help either of us! You and I met for a reason," I said sadly.
The thought of him leaving stung my heart like a wasp.
My whole world would instantly fall apart if he disappeared forever.
Dark Mist let out a disappointed sigh as he kept his composure.
"Calm down Sioku, I don't plan on leaving you any time soon. However, I will not allow myself to cause you any harm. What I was about to say is, you and I must find the best way to protect each other during any tough situation," he replied smoothly.
I was surprised to see Dark Mist keeping his cool at a time like this.
He didn't even flinch when I raised my voice at him.
I began to relax while listening to him speak in a calm voice.
"Sioku, you have nothing to worry about. I'm not going anywhere," he added.
His reassurance calmed me down quite a bit.
I no longer felt sad or afraid.
We took a minute of silence to pull ourselves together.
"I'm sorry Dark Mist, that was my fault. I shouldn't have over reacted like that. You've already been through enough today, and I just added more stress to your mind," I said as I wiped a tear from my eye.
"It's all right Sioku, this argument had nothing to do with my previous situation. You've taught me something about friendship that I never knew. Friends may disagree with one another, but they must communicate in order to find a solution to their problem," he replied with a smile.
His explanation sounded perfect to me.
"This guy is a quick learner," I thought.
I smiled back at my celestial friend and said gratefully. "Thanks Dark Mist, your composure during confrontations is remarkable. I'm starting to feel a little jealous of you."
His face pinked up as he chuckled at my complement.
"It's true," I added before I laughed.
Dark Mist looked down at the jewel around my neck as a thought crossed my mind.
"Sioku, did anything strange happen to your necklace when you picked up the number card?" he asked curiously.
I sat still and tried to think back to my encounter with him.
A smile stretched across my face as I remembered that beautiful moment.
"Yes, I just got out of my English class when it happened. I remember my necklace glowing as I walked around with your number card in my deck box. The jewel was encased in a ball of dark energy as soon as I pulled the card out. The energy ball disappeared after you showed up," I answered.
Dark Mist remained quiet in order to process everything I had just told him.
"Wait Sioku! I have an idea," he said suddenly.
I stared at him with wide eyes as I replied. "What is it Dark Mist?"
"Sioku, I may be able to go inside your necklace. If a number spirit and its holder share a close bond, the number will have access to an enchanted space inside a person's pendent if he or she is wearing one. The number spirit must then come in direct contact with the person's pendent in order to enter the space," he explained.
I paused for a moment with an uncertain expression.
"Hold on Dark Mist, are you allowed to freely go in and out?" I asked with a hint of concern.
"Of course," he answered calmly.
I stared lovingly into Dark Mist's eyes.
"You and I may not know each other for very long, but we have already started a beautiful friendship. I think we have a chance to make this work," I said happily.
"I agree with you Sioku," he replied.
I grinned as I imagined myself taking Dark Mist everywhere without attracting any attention toward us.
"Well, what are we waiting for? Let's try it out," I cheered with excitement.
Dark Mist cautiously floated in front of me before he asked. "Sioku, do I have your permission?"
"You sure do," I answered softly.
I watched silently as Dark Mist extended his hand to touch the jewel around my neck.
A glowing light emitted from the jewel, causing that same orb of energy to encase Dark Mist.
Dark Mist let out a yelp as he was startled by the sudden enchantment.
He wearily tried to scan the surrounding area.
"Sioku! What is happening to me?" the celestial being frantically called out.
To my surprise, I could hear his voice from inside the orb.
Judging by the high pitch in my friend's voice, he seemed to be in fear of the enchantment putting him in danger.
I gave Dark Mist a look of reassurance in order to help him relax.
"You were right, our friendship allowed this to work. Stay calm Dark Mist," I said softly.
It only took a few seconds for Dark Mist to vanish from my sight.
I looked down to see that the orb of energy had disappeared as well.
"It worked," I whispered.
I held the jewel in both hands and asked. "Dark Mist, are you okay in there?"
"I'm all right Sioku," he answered telepathically.
I took a deep breath in relief.
"Oh thank goodness," I whispered.
I sat in silence while examining my pendent.