~~Hello readers, I'm back with a new chapter.
I do not own anything from Yugioh Zexal.
Only my original characters belong to me.~~
~Barian World~
Vector and I had just entered Don Thousand's room in the palace.
I was getting tired again, so Vector helped me get situated on a sofa.
I sank into the comfort of his gentle touch and fell asleep.
Vector and Don Thousand continued to observe me as I slept peacefully in his warm embrace.
Vector decided to start a quiet conversation as he looked at Don Thousand. "Pardon me sir, but do you think that we should trust the woman that Sioku calls her academic assistant?"
"That's a good question Vector, Why do you ask?" Don Thousand replied softly.
Vector stared down at me wearing a saddened expression and answered. "I just don't want to see Sioku get hurt anymore. She doesn't deserve to go through any of this pain."
Don Thousand leaned against the sofa and said softly. "I know Vector, I agree with you 100 percent. You and I should introduce Sioku to the other Barians in the near future. Sioku will have more friends here to come back to in case she needs our help."
"Great idea Don Thousand," Vector replied with a smile.
In the midst of their conversation, I woke up and yawned.
"Hello you two," I greeted wearing a bright smile.
Vector held me close to him and said remorsefully. "I'm sorry Sioku, did we wake you up?"
"Not at all," I answered happily.
I looked over at Don Thousand who was staring at me in adoration.
Seeing him look at me that way caused my smile to instantly grow wider.
My heart began to race with joy.
Vector ruffled my hair and said playfully. "You look happy Sioku, do you have a crush on Don Thousand?"
My cheeks immediately turned bright red as I replied. "Say what? Heck no! Don Thousand is one of my good friends just like you."
Vector grinned at me and responded in a teasing manner. "I don't know Sioku, it looks to me like you two are silently flirting with each other."
I playfully poked Vecter in the side and replied. "Will you cut it out? You're embarrassing me in front of him!"
Vector only chuckled at my response in amusement.
In the midst of our conversation, we heard some noises coming from the other side of the bedroom.
"Is somebody in here?" called Vector.
Vector was only met with silence.
I sstared at Vector and commented. "That was weird, I could have sworn that I heard somebody else in here."
"So did I," added Don Thousand.
A brief moment of silence passed by as we waited for a response.
Much to our surprise, we heard the sound of quiet footsteps coming in our direction.
"I wonder who that could be," I said curiously.
"It's probably another Barian," replied Vector.
I gasped in recognition as I saw the same boy with grey hair walking toward us.
"What's up Sioku?" asked Vector.
I smiled at him and answered. "I know that boy,we met yesterday. He saved me from three bullies who were harassing me at school."
Don Thousand smiled at me and chimed in. "Sioku, are you saying that Dumon ssaved you? If so, how did he do it?"
"Yes, Dumon and a female officer chased those bullies away when he saw them harassing me. He also helped me calm down after I got shaken up by a terrifying video," I explained.
"That was very kind of him. Dumon is a real hero," Vector said proudly.
Don Thousand's expression suddenly changed from surprised to concerned as he spoke to me. "Sioku, why were those other kids after you?"
"Julie's daughter Mira automatically blamed me for her mom's absence. She and her friends cornered me after school as I was walking toward the train station. Mira kept demanding me to tell her what happened to Julie," I answered quietly.
I carefully pulled myself up into a sitting position while still holding onto Vector.
Are you all right Sioku?" asked Vector with concern.
I blushed and laughed nervously before I answered. "Yes, the after effects of my bad dream are gone now."
"That's good to hear," replied Don Thousand.
The grey haired boy stopped directly in front of us.
I looked closely at the boy and studied his features.
He wore black pants, a black vest over a white shirt, a scarf tied around his neck, and glasses over his eyes.
"This guy looks beautiful," I thought wearing a dreamy smile.
His peaceful aura immediately brightened up the room.
I hopped off of the sofa and threw my arms around him.
"Hi Dumon, I'm so happy to see you again!" I said joyfully.
Dumon returned the hug and replied. "Same to you Sioku, how have you been?"
I allowed myself to relax in his warm embrace.
"Today has been a total roller coaster," I answered in exhaustion.
"Did those bullies get to you again?" Dumon replied with concern.
"Instead of three bullies, I was only dealing with one revenge obsessed maniac. The only way I could find out the truth was to beat him in a duel. He is the whole cause of Julie's illness. This man poisoned and sent her to the hospital on purpose in order to hurt me. His main goal was to make me lose everybody's trust," I explained.
"How did her daughter react when she found out?" Dumon continued.
"Mira was absolutely devastated, and I don't blame her at all. She also apologized to me before I left the hospital," I answered.
"Sioku, does this mean that you and Mira are friends now?" Vector chimed in.
"Not exactly," I answered casually.
Vector stood up from his spot on the sofa and moved over to the other end.
After releasing each other, Dumon and I sat down in the empty spot.
Dumon affectionately pulled me closer to him and said. "Hey Sioku, I've been thinking about you since we met yesterday."
I hugged him tightly and replied. "Oh Dumon, you are so sweet. I'm just happy to be here in Barian World with you and the others."
Dumon paused for a moment before he continued. "Hold on Sioku, how have you been coming to Barian World."
"Vector gave me a Baria Crystal," I answered as I revealed the object for him to see.
Dumon stared at the crystal and then smiled back at me.
"Wow Sioku, I'm so happy for you. This means that you can come visit us more often," he said happily.
"That's right Dumon," I replied with a smile of my own.
Dumon and I pulled each other into another affectionate embrace and stayed like that for a long time.
I laid my head on his chest and closed my eyes.
He soothingly stroked my hair as I relaxed.
Dumon gently placed his hand on my forehead and said softly. "Sioku, do you know how to use the Barian powers inside your crystal yet?"
"No sir," I whispered.
He then turned to Don Thousand and continued. "Pardon me Don Thousand, but may I please teach Sioku how to use the other powers inside her Baria crystal sometime?"
Don Thousand smiled at Dumon and answered. "Of course, you have my full permission to train her."
Dumon perked up and replied. "Really? That's great! Thank you very much sir."
Vector looked at Dumon and joined in. "May I help too?"
"Sure," Dumon answered.
I watched as Don Thousand revealed a card and presented it to me.
"What is this?" I asked curiously as I perked up.
Dumon laughed and ruffled my hair.
Don Thousand smiled warmly and explained. "This special card is known as Chaos Number 1,000: Numerounius. I am giving you this card as a symbol of our friendship. Sioku, you and I will always be together."
I gently took the card from him and replied sincerely. "Thank you very much Don Thousand, I will always treasure it. Number C1,000 Numerounius will automatically remind me of you whenever I use it."
Vector grinned at us in a teasing manner and said to me. "Don't try to deny it Sioku, you really do like him."
I grinned back at Vector and replied playfully. "Do you want to get poked by me again?"
The four of us laughed in unison at my response.
I carefully placed the new card inside my deck box.
A brief moment of silence passed between the four of us.
I grinned at Don Thousand as a thought crossed my mind.
"I've never seen this duel monster in person before. Will you please summon it for me?" I said excitedly.
Don Thousand pulled out his duel gazer and answered. "Yes, I would be more than happy to do that for you."
Vector looked at Don Thousand and chimed in. "That's a great idea Don Thousand. This could be the perfect distraction for Sioku."
Dumon turned to Vector and said curiously. "Excuse me, but why does Sioku need a distraction?"
"I had a nightmare before you came in," I answered.
Don Thousand sent a spell card along with four of his monsters through the overlay portal and called out. "I overlay Numeron Network with Gates one through four to summon... Chaos Number 1,000: Numerounius!"
My face lit up as I heard Don Thousand raise his voice.
"That was the most beautiful sound I've heard all day," I dreamily thought.
Dumon giggled as he tightened his hold on me.
Vector pointed at me and said in a teasing manner. "Hey Sioku, I know that look. You really are in love with Don Thousand."
I only blushed at that before I redirected my focus back to the duel monster.
The creature stood a few feet in front of Don Thousand.
Seeing the actual monster brought my excitement to a whole new level.
I stared at it in awe.
All of my worries about Julie and Mira had been temporarily forgotten as I continued staring at it.
"Wo, that thing is awesome!" I shouted with glee.
Don thousand grinned at me in response.
Vector perked up as he looked at me.
"Hey Sioku, what would you like to do?" he asked.
Don Thousand looked sternly at Vector and interrupted. "Vector, please don't be rough with Sioku. She might still need some time to recover from her bad dream."
"Don't worry Don Thousand, I'm okay. You guys have already drove those bad thoughts away," I assured with a bright smile.
"That's good to hear," Dumon commented.
I gasped frantically as I thought about Yuma.
"Sioku, what is it?" asked Vector.
"Are you okay?" Dumon added.
"Yes, I need to return to my world now. My friend invited me to his house before I teleported here," I explained.
"Please take care of yourself over there Sioku," replied Don Thousand.
I grinned at him and replied. "You don't have to worry Don Thousand, Numerounius will watch over me."
"Awe, how cute," Vector commented.
My cheeks pinked up in response.
Don Thousand's face saddened as he let out a heavy sigh.
"I know Sioku, but I'll still worry about you. You are going through so much, and I just want to help you escape all of that pain," he said quietly.
Once Dumon released me, I carefully slid off of the sofa.
Without thinking, I pulled Don Thousand into an affectionate embrace.
"Oh Don Thousand, you, Dumon, and Vector are three of the best friends I ever had," I said softly.
Don Thousand nuzzled me in response.
After releasing Don Thousand, I hugged Vector tightly.
"Please come back soon," Vector said as he returned the hug.
"I plan on returning here tonight after my friend goes to bed," I replied with an excited grin.
"We look forward to seeing you again," Don Thousand added.
"I also look forward to your return," said Dumon.
I smiled at the three Barians as I pointed my Baria crystal upward.
The crystal immediately created a portal that transported me back into the guest bedroom at Yuma's house.
Back in the guest room, I sat down on the bed.
Fortunately, those terrible memories of our time at the hospital with Julie had been temporarily wiped away.
My mind was still focused on Numerounius.
The way Don Thousand raised his voice while summoning it had me absolutely love struck.
All of my worries were completely non existent in this moment.
I reached into my deck box and pulled out the new card that I received from Don Thousand.
Just looking at the wonderful card made me think of Don Thousand right away.
I grinned dreamily as his low voice echoed in my head.
A knock on the door suddenly snapped me out of my thoughts.
I quickly put away the card before answering. "Come in."
The door opened to reveal Yuma and Astral.
I was relieved to see them again.
"Hello you two," I greeted with a bright smile.
"Hi Sioku, how did you sleep?" replied Yuma.
I let out a quiet yawn and answered. "Very well, did you guys enjoy your Tv show?"
Astral stared at me and chimed in. "We most certainly did, the action in that show is great. I'm glad to see you looking like your cheerful self again."
A brief moment of silence passed between us.
Yuma sat down on the bed beside me.
I smiled as I hugged him tight.
Yuma returned the hug and said happily. "Sioku, it's almost dinner time. My grandma's cooking is the best."
I giggled in amusement before replying. "Thanks Yuma, I'm looking forward to it."
Yuma helped me get back on my feet and said calmly. "Shall we go to the dining room now?"
"Of course," I answered with a smile.
Yuma and I exited the guest room with Astral floating behind us.
Haru smiled at Yuma and me as we entered the kitchen.
"Hello you two," she greeted.
"Good evening Mrs. Tsukumo," I replied politely.
"Hi Grandma, where is Kari?" Yuma added.
"Kari is already at the table," answered Haru.
"Thank you Mrs. Tsukumo," I replied.
Yuma and I then made our way into the dining room.
I sat down in a chair next to him.
Astral hovered behind us to observe.
He stared down at me and said softly. "Sioku, I am glad to see that you are in a better place now."
I looked into his mismatched eyes and thought. "Thank you Astral, I sure am. I really appreciate you and Yuma for staying by my side."
Kari was sitting across from Yuma and me.
She smiled at me and greeted. "Hello Sioku, it's nice to see you again."
"Same to you Kari," I replied with a smile.
"How have you been feeling since the incident?" Kari continued.
I let out a heavy sigh and answered. "I'm all right, just trying hard to keep my mind off of that chaotic event."
"I don't blame you Sioku," she replied sympathetically.
Yuma looked at his older sister wearing an upset expression and chimed in. "Kari, don't bring that situation up. Sioku doesn't need to talk about it anymore."
Kari only shook her head at him.
I placed a calming hand on Yuma's shoulder and spoke gently to him. "It's okay Yuma, Kari was just looking out for me."
Yuma relaxed and smiled at me.
"You two really are cute together," Kari commented.
Kari then stood up before he walked into the kitchen.
Yuma and I stared at each other as our faces pinked up.
"My sister is crazy," Yuma whispered in my ear.
"She sounds nice," I replied.
Our conversation was interrupted when Haru walked in carrying two plates of food in her hands.
She carefully set them down on the table in front of Yuma and me.
"Thank you Grandma," said Yuma before he happily dug into the plate.
I smiled politely at Haru and added. "Thanks Mrs. Tsukumo, this food looks delicious."
"You two are very welcome," Haru replied as she smiled back.
Instead of striking up a conversation with Yuma, I decided to eat my dinner in silence.
A few minutes later, Kari returned to the table while carrying her own plate.
She looked at Yuma and said sternly. "Yuma, where are your manners? Your girlfriend has better manners than you."
Yuma's face turned bright red as he looked at his older sister.
He jumped up and replied in a flustered tone. "Excuse me Kari, but Sioku is not my girlfriend!"
Kari grinned at her younger brother in amusement.
I couldn't help but laugh as I watched the scene.
"You two are so funny," I commented.
Haru entered the dining room before she sat in a chair next to Kari.
She pointed at Yuma and asked with concern. "What is all the commotion in here?"
"Kari is teasing me," Yuma complained.
"I am not," Kari replied.
Haru put a hand up to silence her grandkids and said gently. "All right you two, that's enough now. We don't want to overwhelm Sioku."
I smiled at Haru and replied. "Thank you Mrs. Tsukumo, but I'll be okay. I'm already having a lot of fun here."
"I'm glad to hear that," Haru added with a kind smile.
After dinner, Yuma and I placed our empty dishes into the kitchen sink before we walked into the living room.
We sat down on one of the couches.
Astral hovered in front of us.
The Tv played as background noise.
I looked curiously at Yuma and spoke quietly to him. "Hey Yuma, "Does Astral stay in your room with you?"
Yuma laid his head on my shoulder and whispered. "Yes, but he annoys me sometimes."
I giggled at that in amusement before replying. "I love having Dark Mist in my room. We always have plenty of things to talk about."
A brief moment of silence passed by as Yuma and I relaxed.
Kari soon entered the room and sat down on a couch opposite from us.
She grabbed the Tv remote and changed the Tv channel.
I jumped and gasped in fear as I saw a medical show playing on Tv.
My expression instantly changed from happy to terrified.
I tried to control my violent trembling but to no avail.
Both my heart rate and breathing increased as well.
Yuma noticed this and embraced me.
"Sioku, are you okay? What's the matter?" he asked softly.
I focused on breathing deeply in order to speek clearly to him.
"We need to go somewhere else," I whispered.
"Why? Is something wrong?" Yuma whispered back.
I only nodded in response.
Yuma helped me get back on my feet.
Without a word, he led me out of the living room.
Astral floated behind us and called out. "Yuma, wait up!"
"Hurry up Astral," Yuma called back.
I couldn't help but laugh at that.
Yuma ruffled my hair as he smiled at me.
He led Astral and me back up to the attic.
Once inside, Yuma and I sat down on the couch.
I was relieved to have the silence return.
Astral hovered in front of us and stared at me.
Yuma pulled me into a comforting embrace and spoke gently. "Sioku, what just happened to you?"
"I'm wondering the same thing," Astral added.
"I was having a panic attack," I answered sadly.
"Do you know why?" Yuma continued.
He gently pushed a few strands of loose hair away from my face.
"Your sister was watching a medical show on Tv. Seeing the facility triggered some bad memories," I answered fearfully.
Yuma lovingly tightened his hold on me and whispered. "I'm so sorry Sioku, I wouldn't have brought you into the living room if I knew that Kari was going to watch one of those shows. Medical shows are Kari's favorite thing to watch on Tv."
I let out an exhausted sigh and replied. "Please don't blame yourself Yuma, you didn't cause my panic attack at all. You actually saved me before my panic attack could get worse."
"You've done well Yuma," Astral praised.
Yuma only smiled at his celestial friend.
I snuggled into Yuma and laid my head on his chest.
Yuma stroked my hair as I closed my eyes.
We relaxed in silence for a long time.
Being close to Yuma was like spending time in Barian World.
I broke the silence by starting a conversation with Yuma. "Hey Yuma, why don't you have any pets?"
"We just haven't thought about getting one yet," Yuma answered.
"I can imagine you guys getting a cat," I replied with a smile.
"A cat would be nice," Yuma said with a smile of his own.
Astral stared at me and curiously chimed in. "Sioku, what is a cat?"
I smiled at him in adoration and explained. "A cat is an animal with four legs and lots of long fur. They also have pointed ears and a tail that curls upward."
"That's very interesting," the being replied.
I rubbed my eyes and let out a quiet yawn.
Yuma placed a hand on my shoulder and said softly. "You look really tired Sioku. Would you like to go back to your room now?"
I carefully straightened myself up and answered. "Yes, I'm sorry for cutting our time short. I just need a good night's rest."
"That's understandable," Yuma replied as he released me.
After standing up, Yuma and I exited the attic followed by Astral.
Kari intercepted Yuma and me on our way to the guest room.
She looked at Yuma and asked. "Where are you two going?"
"I'm taking Sioku to her room for the night," he answered.
"That's very nice of you," Kari replied before she walked away.
Yuma and I quietly walked down the hallway.
Back in the guest room, I sat down on the bed.
Yuma sat down on the bed and put his arm around me.
I snuggled into him for comfort.
"Hey Sioku, will you be okay in here tonight?" he said softly.
I smiled reassuringly at him and answered. "Yes, you don't have to worry about me. I'll be just fine in here by myself."
Yuma and I hugged each other before he stood up.
"Good night Yuma," I said as I watched him walk toward the door.
"Same to you Sioku," Yuma replied before he walked out.
Yuma gently closed the door behind him before he led Astral to his room.
The silence returned once again.
Vivid images from that medical Tv show were stuck in my head.
I pulled out my Baria crystal and pointed it upward.
A glowing portal instantly transported me to Barian World.
I found myself standing near the palace's gate.
Dumon met me by the gate and opened it.
"Hello Sioku," he greeted.
"Hi Dumon, I'm glad to see you again. Thanks for opening the gate," I replied as I walked through the entrance.
"No problem Sioku, please allow me to lead you inside. Don Thousand and Vector are waiting for us," he said while taking my hand.
Dumon's gentle touch sent me into a world of serene relaxation.
All of my worries about Kari's medical Tv show didn't exist for a moment.
I smiled dreamily as I walked beside him.
"You're so adorable when you smile like that," Dumon complemented.
I grinned at him in response.
The automatic door slid open for us.
Once inside the palace, Dumon led me back to that same large bedroom.
Vector met us in the doorway.
"Hi Vector," I greeted shyly.
"Hello Dumon, thank you for bringing Sioku in here. You have been very helpful to her," he said graciously.
Dumon smiled at Vector and replied. "You're welcome, I am always happy to assist her."
I let go of Dumon's hand and blushed.
A scary flashback entered my mind, and I couldn't push it away.
~Flashback to The Hospital Visit~
I stood still in front of Julie's bed.
The constant sounds of beeping machines rang throughout the room.
~End Flashback~
I fearfully hid behind Dumon.
My heart began to race with anxiety.
I started to tremble as my breathing increased.
Sweat dripped profusely down my face.
Vector placed a calming hand on my shoulder and said gently. "Sioku, you're very quiet tonight. Is something bothering you?"
I only nodded in response.
"Would you like to talk about it?" continued Dumon.
I just shook my head.
"We should go sit down," Vector suggested.
"Good idea," replied Dumon.
The two Barians kindly led me to that same couch we sat on when I last visited.
Vector and Dumon sat down on either side of me.
They seemed deeply concerned about my sudden shyness around them.
I timidly leaned back against a couch pillow and closed my eyes.
Dumon put his arm around me and said smoothly. "Come here Sioku, we've never seen you act this way. Please tell us what's going on."
"We only want to help you," Vector added.
I remained silent and snuggled up to Dumon for comfort.
Dumon affectionately pulled me closer to him.
Vector let out a heavy sigh in disappointment as he stared hopelessly at me.
"Dumon, what should we do for Sioku? How can we get her to talk to us?" Vector said sadly.
"Rushing her will not solve our problem. We must be patient," Dumon replied smoothly.
"You're right," Vector whispered.
A long period of silence passed between the three of us.
Ten minutes later, the door slowly opened to reveal Don Thousand hovering in the entrance.
"Hey Don Thousand, we're so relieved that you're here. Dumon and I need your help," Vector said frantically.
"Calm down Vector," Dumon urged.
"Why? Did something happen?" Don Thousand replied wearing a worried expression.
Vector stared sadly at Don Thousand and answered. "Yes, Please come over here."
Dumon grabbed Vector by the collar of his shirt and said sternly. "I told you to calm down. You could accidentally frighten Sioku if you keep getting worked up like this."
"I understand," Vector whispered.
Dumon released Vector's collar after a minute.
Don Thousand cautiously floated over to the sofa where the other Barians and I were sitting.
He hovered next to Dumon and me.
I looked at Don Thousand but didn't say anything.
Don Thousand stared at Dumon and said calmly. "Sioku is not acting like herself tonight. Do you know what's wrong with her?"
Dumon let out a worried sigh before he answered. "No sir, Sioku has been acting this way since she arrived here. Vector and I still don't know what has caused her to be so timid around us."
"All we can do right now is wait for Sioku to relax," Don Thousand said gently.
Another long period of silence passed by.
The Barians continued to watch over me as I relaxed in Dumon's warm embrace.
After a few more minutes had passed, I opened my eyes and stared up at Dumon.
Dumon lightly placed his hand on my forehead and spoke gently. "Sioku, are you all right? Please talk to me."
"Yes Dumon, I'm really sorry for making you guys worry about me. I just had a minor panic attack," I said quietly.
Dumon comfortingly hugged me close to him and replied. "Oh Sioku, I'm so sorry. Do you know what caused it?"
"We were very worried about you," added Vector.
"My friend's older sister had a medical show playing on Tv," I answered fearfully.
"Is that why you came to Barian World?" continued Don Thousand.
I looked at Don Thousand and answered. "Not exactly, I was going to come here anyway. Do you remember?"
"Of course," he answered with a smile.
Don Thousand pulled out his duel gazer and powered it up.
My eyes lit up with joy at the sight.
He sent a few cards through the overlay portal and called out. "I overlay Numeron Network and Numeron Gates one through four to summon... Chaos Number 1,000: Numerounius!"
A feeling of elation washed over me as I watched the duel monster come to life.
My flashback had been completely forgotten in this moment.
I let out a dreamy sigh and said. "I love it when he does that. Don Thousand's voice is so beautiful."
Vector giggled at my reaction in amusement.
"I knew that would cheer you up," said Don Thousand.
"Thank you very much," I replied.
"You really helped her out Sir," Vector commented.
Don Thousand grinned at him in response.
I slipped into peaceful thoughts as I stared at Numerounius.
Its calming aura made all of my worries disappear.
Dumon smiled at me as a thought crossed his mind.
"Hey Sioku, I know what else will cheer you up. How do you feel about doing some Baria crystal training?" he said happily.
I instantly perked up and answered. "Sure, that sounds like fun."
Don Thousand looked at me wearing a concerned expression and joined in. "Hold on Sioku, are you feeling okay after having that panic attack?"
"Yes Don Thousand, I'll be just fine. You don't have to worry," I replied smoothly.
"Would you two mind if I come along?" asked Vector.
"The more the merrier," I replied.
Don Thousand looked at the other two Barians and said in a serious tone. "Dumon, Vector, I would like you to stay with Sioku at all times. Please do not leave her side."
"Yes sir," they replied in unison.
I stared at Don Thousand wearing an awkward expression and said. "Why are you so over protective of me? I promise you Don Thousand, I'll be all right."
Don Thousand lowered his head and sighed sadly.
"I know Sioku, but I just care about you so much. I would never forgive myself if something bad ever happened to you. Please try to understand that I love you," he answered.
"Vector and I feel the same way," Dumon added.
I thought to myself for a moment before I spoke to my Barian friends again. "I love you guys too. Also, I appreciate everything that you do for me. Thank you for being my friends and giving me a place to stay whenever I need a break from all of the chaos back at home."
"That's what good friends do," replied Dumon.
I carefully pulled myself up into a sitting position.
Vector patted my shoulder and said happily. "Sioku, do you want to start your training now?"
"Yes," I simply answered.
"I'll see you guys later. Have fun," said Don Thousand.
"Sioku will be in good hands," replied Vector.
Vector stood up and then headed for the door.
Dumon slowly helped me get back on my feet before we followed Vector.
The three of us exited Don Thousand's room.
Vector led Dumon and me down a long corridor.
We then exited the palace through a different door.
The exit led us out to a large courtyard.
The air outside felt very refreshing.
I took a deep relaxing breath.
Being outside helped me think clearly again.
A huge patch of thick grass grew in the center of it.
There were benches, tables, planter boxes, and other decorations lining the walls.
Dumon took my hand and led me into the center of the grass patch.
I couldn't help but smile at his kind gesture.
Vector pointed at me and instructed. "Sioku, please take out your Baria crystal."
I carefully pulled the Baria crystal out from underneath my jacket and presented it to my Barian friends.
"That crystal looks good on you," Dumon pointed out.
I giggled at that and replied. "Thank you for the complement."
Vector faced me and then pulled out his own crystal.
"First, I'm going to teach you how to protect yourself with one of its powers. This will come in handy in case you run into a powerful enemy," he started.
"That's always good," I replied.
Vector pointed the crystal above his head and held it in the air.
The cloak appeared over his body a few seconds later.
I smiled at him and lifted my crystal into the air.
Before I knew it, a silver cloak appeared over my body.
"Wow, this is wonderful! I love it," I said with glee.
"That cloak really suits you Sioku," replied Dumon.
I blushed while staring into his grey eyes.
"Thank you very much good sir," I replied graciously.
Dumon and I giggled in amusement.
"In order to remove the cloak, you only need to wave the crystal above your head. You can put that cloak on whenever you need to. Your appearance will stay the same," Vector explained.
I waved the crystal above my head and removed the cloak.
"Vector, thank you for the lesson. I really enjoyed it," I said with a bright smile.
Vector pulled me into a loving embrace and replied. "You're very welcome Sioku, I really enjoy being your teacher. Please don't hesitate to ask us any questions you might have about the Baria crystal."
I gratefully returned the embrace and said softly. "Thanks again Vector, I'll definitely come back here if I need any help."
Vector and I released each other after a minute.
The sun was just beginning to set in the clear sky.
My friends and I decided to watch the sunset together.
The night sky was soon lit up with millions of bright stars.
I smiled in admiration as I stared up at the sparkling orbs of light.
"The sky is beautiful tonight," I said softly.
"It sure is," replied Dumon.
"It has been a while since I last watched the stars come out like this," Vector added.
Dumon gently placed a hand on my shoulder and said. "Hey Sioku, how are you feeling right now?"
I let out a yawn before answering. "Well... I am feeling a little tired."
"We should go back inside the palace," Vector suggested.
"Good idea," replied Dumon.
Dumon and I followed Vector through that same entrance.
I started to feel anxious because of the complete silence.
My body started to tremble slightly.
Dumon put his arm around me and said softly. "Sioku, are you okay?"
"No, the silence is freaking me out. My paranoia gets really bad at night," I answered fearfully.
Dumon pulled me closer to him in a comforting way.
I leaned on him in order to distract myself from those bad thoughts.
Vector led us back down the long corridor and then into Don Thousand's room.
"Good evening Don Thousand," I greeted as we entered.
Don Thousand floated over to us wearing a kind smile on his face and replied. "Hello, how did your lesson go?"
"Fabulous," I answered with a smile of my own.
I noticed that Numerounious was still out and waved at it.
Seeing that duel monster again was the perfect distraction from my fears.
Dumon led me back to the long couch and then helped me settle in.
Vector sat down on the other side.
I snuggled up to Dumon as he embraced me.
He laid his head on my shoulder and whispered. "Sioku, do you have to hurry home any time soon?"
"Not really," I whispered back.
Complete silence filled the room as the Barians and I relaxed.
I closed my eyes and eventually fell asleep in Dumon's warm embrace.
A few minutes later, Vector quietly left the room.