What up people! This is a bit late on the account that I got food poisoned and was drowsy from the pain and from the meds. I had this April Fools post I was planning to do but yea... Oh well, there's next year.
Anyhoo~ Here's another chapter for a new month, this would have been released mid month in March but I got really busy IRL.
This is a lot more slow paced compared to previous chapters. Meaning there's not even a Duel in this one. Kinda. You'll see what I mean when you read it. Not every chapter I publish will have one.
Now onto some other news:
First off, I'm on Spacebattle~! A friend of mine finally convinced me to upload this story on Spacebattle because as he said, and I quote, "What can you lose?" So if you're a member there, go and leave a comment on my thread! Same name and same username!
Don't worry, I won't abandon FFnet. Any new chapter I post will be uploaded on this site first before I do it on Spacebattle but that's not a complete promise. I'm not gonna lie, it might be better to read it there. I have a lot more creative freedom there in terms of how I can write and I kinda went nuts. You will also notice that there will be more chapters, or threadmarks as its known there, since if nothing is posted in a thread it gets locked up. It's not new content so don't worry, it's just 1 chapter split up into pieces.
Also~ Did you notice that this story now has official art?! That same friend above commissioned it as a birthday gift to me! He sent me 3 different artworks! One of them is artwork for a MHA and Kamen Rider Crossover fanfic I've been planning on and the mad bastard even commissioned the other for my Code Geass fic! Which got me super motivated to write the next chapter! I'm just so stoked about the art!
TOO BAD THIS SITE CAN'T LET YOU SEE IT IN ALL IT'S GLORY! Q_Q
Hmm, weirdly coincidental that in Spacebattle I can post pics... Just saying.
...
Leave a review if you liked my story!
Oh... also... I decided to add another history divergent fact regarding 2 people I admire in this story. Please let me know if you thought it was okay or if I should change it. I hope you guys like it.
Writing Glossary
"Hello there!" - Character's speech.
'Not them again...' - Character's inner monologue.
[Spanish:"Where is the Library?" - Character speaking in another language.
"OI! PISS OFF YOU SLAG!" - Character speaking with intense emotion
"That's The King of Games. Yugi Muto!" - Great emphasis on underlined words. Also when spoken in sarcasm, depends on context.
" I was always with you the entire time."
Immediately above is for speech from characters that are [REDACTED*SPOILER*REDACTED]
Elemental Hero Avian - Name of card
ELEMENTAL HERO NEOS - Name of Character's Ace or Signature card
I will also sometimes switch between English and Japanese honorifics such as Mister to -san as well as switching between words like sister to Nee-san and vice versa.
Game Terminology
ATK = Attack. DEF = Defense. LP = Life Points.
Capital lettered words in the middle of a sentence are terminologies from the Yugioh card game. This is so you, but mostly me, won't get confused between a Trap and a trap.
Trap = Trap card (Game Term) while trap = literal word, i.e. "You're walking in a trap".
Other examples, but not all of them, are: Monster, Spell, Quick-Play, Continuous, Summon, Normal, Special, Effect, Fusion, Deck, Graveyard, Field, Discard, Banish, Draw, Duel. (This will change if there's a noticeable demand for it in the reviews and I mean noticeable.
Increased/Decreased Monster stats:
New Stat (Original Stat (PLUS or -) Modifier).
Example-
- [ATK:2500 (2000 PLUS 500)] *The Plus symbol doesn't show up.
- [ATK:1500 (2000 - 500)] *While the "-" Minus symbol does.
Effect Monster's abilities will not be shown unless I deem it for it to be necessary. Otherwise any chapter I write will possess a ridiculous word count. Effect's will only be shown if it's outside of a Duel.
The game terminology section will be deleted 30 chapters later as veteran readers will have already become accustomed to how I write therefore not needing it any longer.
As always,
This story is a non-profit work by me. All characters and cards that appear in the Yugioh franchise here belong rightfully to Konami and the creators of this wonderful show.
Spoilers for the shows will pop out randomly so you have been warned in advanced.
Please support the official releases.
Please excuse any grammar/spelling mistakes as those will be corrected when spotted.
"Survivor! Attack!" My blond haired Knight in shining armor wins the game for me by cleanly chopping through Winged Dragon, Guardian of the Fortress Dragon #2's neck... Gods, was that name a mouthful.
"Aw man~ That wasn't even close." My 7th opponent of the day said.
I take the Duel Disk off my arm while staring at the line that was formed in front of me, hiding the incredulity I felt upon seeing the size of the queue. "Yup, that's it... I'm taking a break. Dueling will recommence after my break and only after. I'm beat." I took my Deck out from the Disk and place it safely in the new Deck Belt I bought a couple of days ago.
"Aww~" The kids disperse like flies and go back to the tables while I head to the front of the store. There was a mini freezer below the counter and I plan on taking a soda. Pop-pop Sugoroku gave me a thumbs up when I asked if it was ok earlier. I'll even pay for it since I felt a smidgen of guilt in just taking it.
"Talk about endurance, punk. 7 Duels in a row." Jounochi said as he came to my side so he could have a chat with me.
"With many more to follow. Geez Louise, I can't believe you put me up for this." I complained. The refreshing beverage in my hand soothed the dryness that clung onto my throat. It didn't take long for me to finish it as I only needed a few gulps.
"Take this as a lesson in humility, punk." Jounochi retorted. Just how did I end in this predicament, you ask? Mostly cause of me and my big mouth.
"Refresh my memory for me. Just how did I end up with this lesson? Scratch that, why am I working in this store?" I tossed the can perfectly into the recycling bin, and try not to be show how proud I was in making that shot, as I crossed my arms waiting for my answer.
"Simple. You bragged, loudly might I add, to everyone within earshot that you worked here. Sugoroku-jii heard it and hired you on the spot as a favor for me." My caretaker rubs my hair in amusement and I lightly swat it away. I stare at the bangs that now obscure my vision. I'm gonna need a haircut soon and that brought me to a random tangent. Money.
I guess it was nice I had a job? It wasn't like my funds were low or that I needed one and that brings me to a question. Did my Student Visa even allow me to take one? If not, I'm probably volunteering here rather than being an employed worker. That sucked. Why you ask? 'Cause it cut down on my research time.
"Yeah, I get that tidbit but that doesn't explain why these pipsqueaks are constantly hounding me for a Duel." I don't think they all suddenly wanted to Duel me because of my performance last week but alas I was proven incorrect.
"Pfft. You're a pipsqueak yourself." Hand to chest, I made a gawking noise in response in mock surprise while saying "Moi" in the most exaggerated French accent I could muster. Jounochi continued explaining while blatantly ignoring my response, the bastard. "Word got out about how you handled the Domino City Champion for the underage in less than 5 turns. Apparently he didn't have many fans cause of his rotten attitude and hearing how you served his ass got spread like wildfire." I.. I allowed that statement reluctantly and nod back somewhat understandingly. I didn't regret beating Akio since Satoru was ecstatic afterwards. What I did regret was the unseen consequence that resulted from it.
Mainly because I was led to believe my opponent was someone who was regularly placed in 3rd place. I have certain words I would like to exchange with you, dear Satoru. Before I could go on finalizing my plan of revenge on Satoru, Jounochi finished the rest of his explanation.
"Rumor has it that kids could get the chance to Duel with Jounochi's apprentice, i.e. you. If they win, they could take your place. Turns out, you're now a minor celebrity since your image is attached to mine. I know you ain't a fan of that so sorry about that, kid." Jounochi apologized.
Don't know how to feel about that. Not the fact about how the the spotlight on Jounochi was also showing me as a result of being associated with him but how I was a minor celebrity. My caretaker even showed me on his phone, a few days ago, that there were already a few videos of me Dueling online. Bracing for the trolls, I delved into the comments in the confines of my room to see what people were talking about. It was both a hit and a miss.
On one hand, it was amusing to read online how they compared my beginning to Yugi's. A no name kid beating a Domino city Champion with someone else's deck. I rolled my eyes at this comparison as I found that statement to be inaccurate. 1): because I didn't mind-rape my opponent at the end of the Duel. 2): I was certainly myself and was not possessed by an ancient soul of a long deceased Ruler and 3): Unlike Yugi Muto, I was relentlessly teased about that by the blonde bastard next to me because of it. I don't remember Yugi suffering from this indignation.
On the other hand, it seems that there are a ton, scratch that, a shit-ton of kids who weren't too happy with my existence both here in Japan and internationally overseas. Personally, I didn't give a rat's ass about what others think about me but if it gets to the point where they might make trouble for me? That's when I'll start giving a fuck. Especially since I get the feeling that some of these kids might already be in, about to be in or will be in Duel Academy during my enrollment there. Yay~
Getting back on track, due to what Jounochi's explanation, I have been constantly hounded by these hellions who keep constantly requesting, or rather demand, a Duel from me since the beginning of this afternoon. Originally, I was going to just flat-out reject these so called Duel Requests but Jounochi cut me off before I could tell the little tykes to go take a hike. He said, and I quote, "It'll be good training for Duel Academy for your punk ass", unquote. I let out a scoff when remembering his reasoning, as if I needed it. Right now my deck was working overtime fending off the opportunistic vultures.
"Ugh, if I face another cocky kid it'll way be too soon" I lamented while rubbing my face.
"Ha. This was why I tried stopping you that time." Glaring at what my handler said, I questioned him as to why he didn't then. "You said and I quote" He adopts a voice that did not match mine at all. "Katsuya-sama~ I wanted to prove my worth to you~ kyaa~" He winked mischievously at the end.
Jounochi smiled as he saw me hurl in mock disgust but I couldn't keep it going as I laughed my ass off as I couldn't contain my amusement.
"Still, it all worked out in the end. Now you- One sec." Jounochi received a text message judging by that loud PING sound that came out of his pocket. Reading it, he tells me that he was going out to meet Shizuka at the station and bring her in. I gave him a mock salute as he turned to leave the store. In the meantime I manned the register while waiting for him to come back since there was no other staff member in the shop. Sugoroku was currently out buying something and he was secretive when I asked what he was getting. The elderly man told me it was a surprise.
The occasional kid popped their head out from the door behind me, 'reminded me of a meerkat popping out of the ground' I privately mused, to ask if I was ready. I told him no and no to the next kid after him... and said the same for the third kid after that one. I drew a line at the 5th kid and told them if anyone else asked the same question I was just going to reject and not bother listening to them. Even if I was probably not gonna get paid, I took my job seriously.
One of the things I learned from my parents was to always be a 100 and 10% when working on a job. It was literally pounded into my head and as much as I hate to admit this... This mindset helped me succeed in getting a decent life in Japan. Thanks Dad. Still fucking hated his gut- I cut my current line of thinking as I could feel my frown gradual transform into an outright snarl...
Breathe in.
Breathe out.
Breathe in.
Breathe out.
...
I decided to focus on the positive aspects in just helping around the store without pay. First off, I was able to practice my Japanese with a bunch of customers. Next was that since I started working here, I was able to get a few good Duels in for the day and with how easy it was beating not just kids but also the teenagers and even adults, it made my day awesome. After all, who doesn't love a win. Additionally, I guess I enjoyed relearning how to use my deck in the most optimal way so Jounochi's reasoning from earlier had merit. Sugoroku and even Jounochi would pay for my meals in the after hours which I made sure not to eat too much. While I was thankful for how I wouldn't be spending my money on food, I didn't want to be a financial burden on them. On that note, I get "free" sodas on the count of me sometimes paying for it while the guilt got too real.
Oh yeah, there was the added benefit that I could say I used to work in Kame Game Shop. I forget that this place is one of the go to tourists spots in Japan, I even met a few tourists during the past week. The point was that I had clout by merely saying that I was able to work here. Finally, by working here it would net me some good will with Yugi's pop-pop. In conclusion, all this balanced out the books in my favor and outweighed any of the negative aspects in working here without pay in my opinion. Thank you for coming to my TED Talk, cue applause.
Mind now back to reality, I saw that there wasn't a single person out front. It has been quite the slow day and after waiting for another 10 minutes, I deemed it ok for me to go browsing in the internet. I was able to find the answers to 2 of the points in my list when I heard the chime of the doorbell. Looking up from my phone I see Jounochi and his sister walk in. "Good afternoon, Ainsley-kun~ Working hard?" Shizuka greeted me.
"Good afternoon, Shizuka-sensei. Not really. I've been Dueling more than working." I put my flip phone away now that Jounochi returned to the shop.
"I heard. Nii-chan said it was because of the video that's circulating the net. I hope it's not giving you too much trouble." She and her brother each set down a pair of paper bags filled with books. I give it a questioning look and turned to her for an explanation.
"Oh these? These are for you. We thought that since you'll be working here from now on, I would bring my teaching materials here so I can tutor you. I even bought some notebooks." Huh? For what?
She giggled. "For your studies obviously. Remember when I said that I'll be teaching you?" I nod and kept the dreading feeling from showing on my face. Side note: Seems I still need to work on how to keep my mouth shut.
"Not that I'm complaining." Internally I was but I keep it to myself. "But why?"
Her brother picked up after her. "Shizuka-chan here, is learning to be a teacher. I thought, why not kill 2 birds with 1 stone, so I suggested to her to come to the store to practice with you until it's time for you to go to school. Aren't I a genius?" Jounochi joked. I could feel my right eye twitch. この野郎... 覚えていやる.
I looked into the bags and examined its contents. The books were about the Japanese language and other subject matter that would help with school like for example Geography, Mathematics and other stuff. I cringed. I didn't want to study before attending the Academy. On the other hand... I guess it will help answer some of the questions I wrote in my notebook.
Begrudgingly, I let Shizuka take me to one of the tables in the back to get started on her lessons. The kids all lined up thinking I was finally ready to take their requests. I swear, I think I just saw a couple of kids eyes glow in a unholy red light with how eager they were in wanting a Duel. Why couldn't my students back home be this attentive to my presence? "False alarm, ki- guys. I'm still on break." I could see a kid, in front of the crowd, get angry and before he had the chance to shout Shizuka cut him off.
"Ainsley-kun needs to study for Duel Academy. Once he finishes his lesson, I will decide whether or not he will Duel you, is that understood?" There's that no-nonsense mom voice. All of them agreed and reluctantly went back to the tables, my dumbass on the other hand said "Yes, mom." in reflex to her tone albeit in a joking manner. That startled her a bit but seeing how I was just messing with her, Shizuka lightly hit me on the shoulders for my sass.
Taking out the Japanese textbook first, Shizuka proceeded to go over grammar and sentence structure. I realized that she was teaching me a language I was already fluent on but I let her continue. I had a soft spot for people who wanted to join the teaching profession. During our time together with the way she was teaching me, I found out that she taught similarly to how Miss Takami would teach her class back in middle school. For your information, Miss Takami was my Math's teacher.
Shizuka was patient with me as I relearned the ins and outs of the local language. My speaking and listening was normal which translated to fluent. Writing and reading on the other hand was still the same for as it was in my first life, problematic.
My tutor for the day skipped over the hiragana as well as katakana writing and went straight to where my problem was more prominent. Kanji. I still made the occasional mistake even in my collected age. If I was too hasty I would have a few stokes too little for a character or just blatantly missing for some. With an eagle eye, Shizuka kept correcting my mistakes while I practiced writing in Kanji for the majority of our time.
"Nii-chan!" "Onii-Chan!" 2 voices I recognized as Satoru and Mina stopped me from completing the character for "Physics" for the final time. I greet the 2 kids who zoom right up next to me.
"Hey there guys. Haven't seen you for nearly a week." It's been 5 days since our initial meeting. They seemed to be doing fine in the time I haven't seen them. Especially Satoru, considering the 1000 mega-watt smile he was sporting.
"Yeah dude! I wanted to try out the deck you helped me with and guess what? I've been on a winning streak." Satoru pulled out his Ace: Infernal Flame Emperor and the card I gifted to him: Thestalos and presented them to me.
"Thanks to these 2, I'm now beating all the guys back in my neighborhood! My side Deck is also beating others but not as much as this one!" I chuckle back in good humor. It seems Satoru got a healthy amount of dose to his self-confidence as he has risen up in his social circle.
"Yeah, Onii-chan ! Satoru-kun's even beaten Botan and Izome the other day!" Mina piped up happily on my left. I guessing Izome is the other of Akio's stooges.
"Hey! No fair! How come they get to Duel with you first? We've been waiting for hours!" said one of the kids who were waiting for me and whose sole purpose for today was Dueling me.
Shizuka wasn't finished teaching yet as we had a couple of hours or so to go. That's why she made a compromise with the increasingly angry mob. "Satoru-kun, Mina-chan. Maybe you can help out Ainsley-kun. Would you like that?" They both nod their heads so furiously fast I could see after-images. "Then can you 2 sweeties Duel with other kids so they don't just waste their time here?"
Turning to the crowd she told group of kids they could Duel me if they first win against Satoru and Mina. "I know some of you came to this store today to Duel against my student but his education is much more important. That's why I will make a deal with you all. These two here?" Shizuka gestured to Satoru and Mina who were smiling and waving respectively back to crowd. "They will Duel you in Ainsley-kun's place. Once you beat them, and both of them mind you, then you will get the chance to face Ainsley-kun later, okay?" Shizuka smiled to the kids who cheered back.
"Sure thing, Miss!" "Okay Onee-chan!" Satoru and Mina both latch themselves to the tables nearby and the traffic got directed to them.
I whistled an impressed tune. "That was well done. You sure you need to practice being a teacher?"
"Of course I do~ Still got a long way before I become one. Also, don't think I didn't see what you tried to do there." Shizuka said while giving me a sly look.
"Damn, you caught me!" We both laugh briefly before I continued my studying. We now switched to over Geography, as she was satisfied with the amount of mistakes I wasn't making writing in Kanji, and I was having fun learning it. Never thought that would have been a sentence I would make.
We went over the different continents with impressive speed and I privately acknowledged that I was in the unique position to make the comparison between 2 worlds. Europe was much larger here on this planet as it had a couple of new countries I didn't recognized. One of them was a place called Midgard. A country ruled by a monarchy in the Scandinavian region right between Denmark and Norway.
I hymned out a certain theme song of the one character that I immediately thought of when I heard Midgard. Needless to say, I was distracted from what Shizuka was saying at the moment.
Him-haa Him-him-ha
Him-ah-hey Him-ha-hey
Him-haa Him-him-ha
Him-ah-hey him-ha-hey
SEP-HI-ROTH!
With that ear worm now buried deeply in mind, I went through the book to see if any of the other continents that were altered. When Shizuka-sensei went over the US of A, I went back to being focused. I wanted to see what was different about this planet's version of home. The U.S. had a few additions compared to Europe: a small island like location south of New Jersey and there was a massive chunk of land in between Kansas and Missouri that showcased 2 new cities I never heard of Opal Coast and Central Key City.
The other major additions I paid attention to was: Tokyo, Japan which had a few new extra stations (Domino for example) in the JR Yamanote line and Egypt was a whole lot bigger than I remember.
It's about when I reach the 2nd hour of my lesson did I ask for a break which Shizuka kindly allow and thank the heavens did she grant it. I was about to lose my mind reading all this new knowledge. Don't get me wrong, this was fun (What have I become?) but I haven't been in a learning mindset in quite some time now. Uuuugh. Getting mentally back in shape for school was gonna be a bitch and a half to achieve.
It seems Shizuka noticed my distress and decided to be merciful. "Hmm. I know we agreed to 3 hours but I guess you have been studying hard lately even before today and especially in the past hou- I glare at her with the might of a thousand hateful suns for her to retract that statement. It was 2 hours, no more no less!
"Tee-hee ;D" The woman had the massive balls to wink at me. Which I allow... for now.
I was in mid-stretch when I was sneakily ambushed by a grey haired old man. "Ooohh, finished are you?"
[English: "JESUS TAP DANCING CHRIST!" Turning around, I see Sugoroku chuckling lightly alongside with Shizuka at my reaction. The old man was standing behind me holding some sort of take out box. I grabbed hold of my chest to get a sense of how fast my heart was beating... yup, it was beating like a machine gun. Now that I've somewhat calmed down, I took another look at the box. I can guess it was some sort of pastry box by the decorations embellished on the cardboard.
Hmm. I guess I can have a bit to eat before dinner, it'll also help fill me up as much as possible as I didn't want to eat too much. Considering how limited my funds were, you know, limited until I could sustainably make money. As a result, I had to tighten my belt and boy oh boy does my stomach grumble at night. I mean, I did have the option to sell some of my cards but... they were MY cards and I had a hard time even parting with the shittiest of cards. But I am hungry... Maybe I can afford to part with a couple of Pot of Greeds. I thought the Swords of Revealing Light was expensive until I found just how much these were being sold for. Oh right, Sugoroku called for me. "Hello Tencho. You need me to man the counter?"
"Oh no my boy. In fact, why don't you sit down. There's something I wanted to give you." We both sat down as I waited on Sugoroku to place that take out box on the table and open it, revealing it to... be... is that a cake in the shape of a Duel Disk...?
What.
I just look up waiting for a response cause I had no idea what this all about. I briefly wonder if today was some kind of fever dream. It has been a reoccurring feeling I have to admit.
"This is for you to eat, my lad. I noticed that you get tired much faster than other kids your age and I got worried. Seeing how thin you are, I reckon you don't eat very much when you're by yourself, do you? That's no good, lad. It's okay to eat in moderation but don't starve yourself because you're worried about your situation..."
How did he know?! Was he...? My eyes fall onto the cake.
"...Yugi too would get so busy up within his head that sometimes he would forget to eat as well! Don't tell him I said this but" He makes a show of looking around to make sure his grandson wasn't listening in nearby. He leans in and whispers to me. "I think that's why he isn't as tall as many of his other friends, hoho!"
...Is this? I wasn't expecting this honestly. I look up to stare at Sugoroku while ignoring the tightening feeling I felt across my chest.
"I know it must be strange and possibly scary for you to be alone in a foreign land with no one to support you but you will find that this isn't true. Goodness gracious, why, I was in the same position as you when I was off adventuring the world when I was young! But don't you worry, young lad. As long as you're here with us..." He gently touches Shizuka's shoulders and inclines his head to Jounochi, who was by the door, pretending to not listen to what Yugi's grandfather was saying and failing badly judging from his warm smile. "...You will never be alone. You will always have someone to support you."
...This was what I think it was, wasn't it? I force myself to blink a couple of times to hide a thing or two that were dropping from my eyes.
"Now! You make sure that you just sit here and eat up while I go us make some hot tea. I find, a good strong cuppa rejuvenates one's body no matter the time of day. I'll go make us some of my favourite, Bah-Se Jasmine. Its flavor packs quite a strong punch. I think you will like it, my boy." Sugoroku pats my knees a couple of times before excusing himself to the kitchen.
...
I pick up the plastic fork that was placed next to the creamy white cake... after [taking a moment to calm myself down] I mean! saying grace, I dig into the vanilla goodness while pointedly ignoring the few salty droplets that entered my mouth as I took the first bite of this cake...
It was sweet.
Sniff.
Shizuka finished the teaching session after I finished the cake, correctly deducing that I was in no mood to learn anything more for today. I was ecstatic by that news. Of course when word got round that I was now free, the kids surrounded me like vultures demanding that I Duel them. I simply point to Mina and Satoru and smugly state. "Didn't the Miss say that you'd have to beat them before facing me? Well? What are you standing around like idiots for? Chop chop!"
I hide a smile while enjoying this deliciously brewed Jasmine tea. Definitely need to get a box for myself, this stuff is good. Sugoroku told me that he had a box of Egyptian tea (which were his favourite) and asked if I wanted to have a try to which I instantly said yes. Never had any tea from the Middle East so I was quite excited about that.
"Thestalos attacks your Summoned Skull and with Molten Destruction out: your Demon dies and I win!"
Yugi's grandfather was currently in the kitchen and I felt kinda bad about asking him to make me a drink but he insisted on it. I should probably offer to massage his shoulders when he gets back. My pop-pop liked it when I elbowed his shoulder blades.
"Simorgh, Bird of Ancestry attacks you directly which wins me the game!"
I wonder if I'm ready for Duel Academy. Don't get me wrong I'm excited about the prospect of attending it and meeting the characters from the anime but I was more worried about whether I should follow the storyline or not. Not gonna lie, by meeting Jounochi, Shizuka and Sugoroku-jii, it killed any nervousness about seeing the main cast of the GX series. I was now swamped with the idea of whether I should interfere or not and wasn't that a thought.
"Ha! Who's next!? My Deck is still hungry for blood! Bring it! I'll burn you all! AHAHAHAHAHA~!"
I mean I should, shouldn't I? In what world was it a good idea for kids to protect the wo- right. This place was in an anime, of course kids were the best choice to protect it but look at what happened. I can't remember much but didn't some kids not make it back from the Spirit Dimension in the Yubel arc? The crocodile dude and the weird guy with lizard name. Jaden definitely developed some PTSD and fucking hell didn't Zane die of a heart attack or some shit?
"Satoru! Snap out of it! You're being too much!"
"What are you talking about, Mina-chan?! I'm on a roll! Nothing can stop me now! Not with this deck I am invincible! I FINALLY HAVE POWER!"
I can't honestly say that the first time I look at Zane there won't be a little part of me feeling guilty about not changing his fate now can I? Sure Syrus, the little shit, got on my nerves at times when I watched the show but not to the point I wanted his older brother dead. The conundrum was this: that I'm not much of a fighter. If I was Dueling for my life, I would absolutely want to use one of the Decks I had that had overwhelming fire power then my D.D. Monarch Deck. Problem was: if I do use the stronger options, I would probably instantly become a suspicious person.
"Has all that power gotten to your head?!"
"Why can't you understand?! No one will bully me anymore as long I have this deck... if you're not with me... you're against me."
Questions such as: Where did these cards come from? How did a no name orphan acquire such powerful monsters? My answer: Luck? Yeah right. I could answer them honestly but I would either sound like an insane person or they would think I was lying and covering something fucked up. Which from a certain point of view, it was. I can't exactly tell them I come from a world where all of this was just a children's cartoon show (Was it though?) and that the world I came from just happened to have Duel Monsters as well, albeit in accelerated rate of release for future cards.
"Wouldn't that be extremely convenient." I hear the phantom voice of the most cynical person I can think of in this world (Seto Kaiba) say in my mind whilst imagining myself in an interrogation room hooked up to a lie detector... With the disappointed looks of the heroes of this world, staring at me... Particularly Jounochi and Shizuka... If I say the truth and they did believe it? It would completely shatter their world. I know I would be horrified if someone told me my life was just some afternoon entertainment, to be consumed by everyone and anyone available.
Suddenly there was no privacy because now every single action could potentially be seen by this unseen audience. Every secret horrible thought you believe was safe from judgement, now exposed to people critically analyzing your character. I certainly had a few fucked up thoughts. I would be horrified to the point of sickness if they were made known to people who will know what goes in my head.
"If I must stop you then there's no other choice... DUEL!"
"You underestimate my power, Mina-chan... DUEL!"
I can feel a headache coming when thinking of solutions to my problem. My best laid plan so far was for me to be a hidden player, someone in the shadows helping out the cast. A helpful hand in the dark and a shield to protect the innocent. Problem was, I possessed no such skills that would even remotely help me in achieving that role. If this was the best I could think up then I was royally fucked.
"It's over Satoru... I have the field, give up."
"Impossible! This can't be! MINAAAAAA!"
"Kids these days. Always so dramatic.
"Shush, Onii-chan. They're reaching the climax, I wish I had some popcorn."
I can't exactly wing it either because my knowledge of this world was subpar at best. Case in point, I had trouble recognizing Joey Wheeler even with him helping me by using his signature cards. So me deciding to be this world's self appointed guardian? Fuck that. That's too much trouble and too much stress for one person. I'll probably mess it up anyway so why bother?
Ohhhh, I'm gonna have to break away from canon aren't I? Every decision I make is making me consider just doing it. Upside was that I barely know any canon so no sweat on that. Downside was everything became a lot more scarier but hey that's life for you.
"This is the end! Direct attack!"
"Nooooo!"
Screw it. I'll leave it be for now. It's future Julian's problem. I'm more or less distracted right now with the tea I have been consuming because of how good it was. When I had time I'll go over the plan properly. Mmm. That went down smooth. I am so buying a box if this tea for when I attend Duel Academy. Bah-Se Jasmine, was it? Why, that sounded lik-... ちょっと-fucking-待って. As in... BAH-SING-SE?! The hell does that mean?! Was the Avatar a real thing here?! I mean the show had a spirit world as well. Fuck! Duel Monsters also had the 4 elements! WATER, EARTH, FIRE and WIND (Air but same thing). I'm pretty sure the Nickelodeon show aired later than GX. Where's my phone? I need to fucking research this now.
"...and that's why Satoru you shouldn't get so arrogant."
"I'm sorry Mina-chan! I was a fool!"
"Alright little ducklings, show's over. Alright, listen up! If you want to Duel my apprentice come back tomorrow."
"But don't worry about waiting in line again, if you want to Duel Ainsley-kun then mark your name down on this notepad but don't think I won't know if you're trying to double book yourself!"
Huh, what do you know. The first Avatar show was first released as a popular fantasy book series in this world. It's level of Fandom was like those ancient Harry Potter books Nicholas kept in his room.
Right now there was some hype over the news about the book finally getting an animated series. The show is being handled by an animation studio I never heard of, the Mirage Factory. An entertainment subsidiary of Industrial Illusions? Oh well. Despite the fact I barely remembered the first series, I was pretty excited myself seeing how I am a big fan of Avatar: The Red Dragon's Dance. Siu Long was baller as the fire Avatar and she was so sassy it hurt so good. Where do you think learned my sarcasm from? Seeing how it the Avatarverse started will be an experience. Jotting down to watch all future Avatar episodes I then pour the remaining jasmine tea in the kettle into my cup.
"I see you're back from Lala land. Had a fun trip?" My blonde caretaker teased as he sat down in front of me.
"Why yes, I took a nice stroll through the Gumdrop hills then soaked my feet in the Minty River when I felt tired. I even had time to drop by Rainbow City to have lunch with Princess Kenny." I slurped my tea while I stared "deadpanningly" at Jounochi with all the seriousness I could muster.
"Oh did she tell you about how the Unicorn guild was in strike because the kingdom raised the tax on hay?" Jounochi expertly countered back at me. Don't you dare lose, Julian. It was 1-0 in his favor with today's banter war between the two of us.
"Indeed. Right now the council of Elder Mushrooms are deliberating whether or not they should filibuster in the next meeting so the Equine Party won't have the chance to speak their case. It's all one big headache and I feel sorry for the princess. Poor girl, I personally feel the Toads are getting the rough end of the deal." Jounochi and I locked eyes in a deadlock as neither of us wanted to lose. I was losing by the way with how my lips were twitching involuntarily.
The silence was broken when Mina, who reappeared from the side, declared her sentence to the both of us. "You two are weird."
I couldn't help it. I laughed with Jounochi following right after me. Damn you Mina. I see Jounochi mouthing "2-0" in my direction. You won today, good sir. But don't get comfy. The King of Banter will be me!
"I see you finished your tea. Just in time too. Finished brewing this next batch. I'm so happy there's someone else to enjoy these beverages with me." Sugoroku sat down beside me as he prepared to pour the deliciously smelling liquid into the new cups he brought out with him.
"Eh tea was never something I actively go for but I won't say no when it's you who's offering pops." Jounochi picked his cup and took a sip He briefly savored the taste before downing the entire cup. Sugoroku and I give him a pointed stare for what I feel is the same reason. Tea shouldn't be finished in a single gulp but slowly savored instead. I was also curious as to how he could drink something piping hot without scalding his throat. Anime biology? I stare at my cup in thought. Wonder if it was the same for me? I took a sip and decided no. Sugoroku stares at me in that grandfatherly disapproving look. I smile sheepishly while saying sorry.
Jounochi laughed before his attention was demanded by Satoru and Mina. Jounochi chatted with them and went on spending the time with the 2 kids who were explaining how their week went. I, meanwhile, enjoyed listening to Sugoroku's stories from his youth. To be honest I was not expecting Yugi's grandpa having such a past that sounded like the tale of a movie franchise protagonist. I forgot that the elderly man in front of me was the modern equivalent to an adventurer. Exploring dungeons, meeting shady people for info, saving a damsel in distress or 2 and being an all-round genuine badass. What made him stop? I stared at him in disbelief when he revealed that he used to be an avid gambler and garnered a somewhat fearsome reputation in Vegas. He only stopped gambling when something happened with his wife. I assumed she threatened to leave him but the blush that was currently adorned on his face said otherwise.
...
Wait a tic. Holy shit. Was that why Jounochi's play style relied on luck gambling? Since he was taught by the old man? I asked.
"HOHOHO! Indeed it is my good chap. What is life but a gamble I always say? In all my life, living isn't fun until some risk is involved. It's the spice that keep people going." I responded with an impressed whistle. Dayum old man, that's a pretty hard-core philosophy.
"... so you haven't seen that Akio-brat the whole week?" I had several more questions I wanted to ask Sugoroku but Jounochi's conversation with Satoru drew my attention. I grimace apologetically to Sugoroku, who understood why I would be interested in the pair's conversation. He left to clean the cup I drank with the first tea. Turning my chair around I face Satoru who noticed I was listening in.
"Yeah. It's been weird. But in a good way. The basta- I mean Akio, is all quiet now in class and he doesn't bother me like usual. He even stopped showing up in the places where I hang now." Satoru corrected his way of addressing his ex-bully when he saw the stern look on Shizuka's face.
What about his lackey's though? I wince when I saw the attention of the group turn to me. Fucking hell, was I ever going to stop blurting out what I think?
"Ummm. After I beat them in a Duel they're all friendly towards me which I kinda like hehe." Satoru laughed sheepishly but immediately stopped when Mina glared at him. Seems like there's a story there and I get the weird feeling I should already know what it was.
"Excuse me? I am sorry to bother you but can you help me? I'm looking for a Julian. The store manager pointed me to you."
Christ, not another one. The first kid who asked to Duel me for my position said something similar to trick me into giving them my attention. The little snot thought he was helping me by helping him. The brat did not last for 2 turns and another thing. I'm getting real fucking tired of people interrupting me when I'm having a conversation with my friends. I stopped myself from berating whoever it was that asked for me when I saw just how dripping his outfit was, and not in the wet manner.
The boy in front of me wore his cap sideways with an orange hoodie over a white shirt which was untucked. I could see the words Brooklyn Mint printed near where his belly was and on further inspection the hoodie looked to be made of some pretty expensive material. His pants were cargo type and in black with a single strip of white that went around his knees horizontally. His footwear were of the Air Jordan variety when I spot the Jordan "Jump-man" logo precisely on the tongue of the shoe. Now that I've fully inspected the person who asked for me, who by the way was unnerved with how I was staring at him, I said the only thing that came to mind.
[English: "Your outfit's dope, my man." That got a startled reaction from him. Probably because I was not speaking locally. I was about to restate what I said in Japanese when it became my turn to be startled.
[English: "Thanks bro! I worked real hard to get some dough for this 'fit." The stranger laughed heartily as he took my compliment. Dude's accent had a tinge of a New York vibe which instantly made me drop my anger in being disturbed. Reminded me of home. Welp, seeing how I've now calmed down I let the group know I'll be dealing with this guy. I say goodbye to the kids who surprise me by hugging me before leaving. The kids needed to get back home for dinner.
[English: "Anyway if you're looking for Julian then you found him. Julian Ainsley, nice to meet ya. If this is about a Duel then I'll have to reject. I'm flat-out tired from dealing damage to some people earlier."
[English: "Nah man, it ain't like that but uh you mind if we change back to Japanese? My English ain't as fresh as I want it to be." The dude says in a bashful tone while rubbing the back of his head.
[English: "I think it's pretty good but hey if it's more comfortable for you." Switching back to Japanese I continue the conversation. "Then I'm game. So what can I help you with if it's not related to a Duel?"
"I know it's near closing time for you guys but I saw that you guys were selling a card that I've been looking for quite awhile. Is it okay if I can buy it now? Oh! I'm Kong- I mean Iwasaki Kongo." The now named person offers a fist bump which I reciprocate in return. "You can call me Kongo by the way. I know some foreigners can get confused with our naming conventions."
"Then call me Julian and it's no problem. As for your request? Normally we'd say no but I'll give you a pass. Follow me. Where did you learn English if you don't mind me asking." I opened the door for him as we made our way to the front.
"Mostly online and uhh from some videos. My English is more on the casual level so don't expect me to pass TOEFL haha." Kongo joked.
Kongo lead me to the glass counter which held his card and I went behind it to unlock and take it out. Guidance to Ore. A continuous Spell card spits the same Rock Monster from the deck when the one on the field gets Destroyed.
'Damn. I wonder if this can work with Block Dragon.' I thought to myself. I made my way to register to total up his bill: ¥7000. Dear Lord, were the cards in this universe expensive.
"Thanks dude! Man I've been looking for this everywhere! Even tried online and nothing. If it wasn't for a feeling I had passing this store, I wouldn't have tried looking for it here." The moment he said "feeling" a... don't ask me how I know but a DARK sensation started to emit from my D.D. Monarch Deck from my belt behind me. Wonder what that meant.
"I'm glad to be of service and hey... if you don't mind my asking, where did you get your clothing? I swear I saw it from somewhere." No joke, this guy was giving me some I-know-you-from-somewhere vibes but I don't remember a "Iwasaki Kongo from... well from any Yugioh materials but that wasn't saying much. I discounted that he was someone I knew from this body's past considering he didn't say anything.
"Oh this? This is from Brooklyn Mint. It's a clothing label from a rapper from the states. Do you know who the Notorious B.I.G. is?" Do I know who- Of course I knew who that was! Damian, a rap fanatic friend from my high school, kept on talking about this guy once he discovered Hip Hop.
"Yeah I know who that is. Personally, I'm more of a Tupac guy myself." Gangsta Party all the way. Man that song takes me back, I had that on repeat in my youth.
"Oh dem fightin' words ma' dude! Seriously you hyped for the new album he's releasing though?" Uhh what? Wasn't Tupac dead?
"Bro! You illin'? We both know he survived the shooting!" ...WHAT?! Not the me speaking out loud what I thought but what TO THE FACT THAT HE'S ALIVE?!
"Wait what? I thought he died? Wasn't there beef between the two?" Was this another divergent from my world?
"Nah man! He's still spitting lyrics till this day an' age. Hell, Biggie and Tupac reconciled and even made a collab with each other to show there was no hard feelings between them. I guess with the fact that both of them nearly died due to the whole East side vs West Side war, they wanted to cool the hate among the fans." Holy mama I thought to myself... This was news. Damian would be so jealous if he knew what I knew.
"Damn dude..." Really that was great news. Less hate in the world and all that. "Well them damn, I'm totally siked about the new album then." Another thing to add to the list.
"If you're surprised about Tupac being alive then there's a whole lot of stuff you're missing out. Hey, you got a Kaiber account? I can add you and send you some songs you might've missed." He pulled out his phone and looked for this world's equivalent to Telegram.
During the past week I found out that Kaiba Corp released a phone app for private messaging and that I had an account prior to my "awakening". I pulled out my phone and displayed a QR code, or rather KR code and let Kongo take a pic. Seriously, Kaiba was stamping his name on everything in this world. I saw a new contact being formed and I renamed it to Rap Fan Kongo. It was so I could remember who he was when he sends me a message after today. My memory wasn't that good so I have to add tidbits in contacts to help me.
"I'm guessing you're more of a Biggie fan?" I asked . Considering how "hostile" he was when I said I liked Tupac more, I assumed he was one. "You sure you wanna help a guy like me?" I said jokingly.
Kongo took a moment to act like he was considering it before laughing. "Nah man. They wanted the hate to stop so it'll be insulting to them if I was to continue it. Regardless what the other posers say online."
"So Biggie has a clothing label now? How's it doing?" I might get some myself with how nice it looked.
"Hell ya bruv! It's like the go-to brand for plus sized people like myself. There's a few selections for smaller people but it primarily focuses on people like me." Kongo had a look of realization then turned around to show me something written on his back.
"I had this baby signed when Biggie came over to Japan to open a store for his company. I even got a few of his cards signed as well!" Cards? What was he talking about?
"Cards? Like baseball cards?" I asked.
"Nah fool! His Duel Monster cards! His daughter worked in Industrial Illusions for a time and she released a couple of archetypes in honor of her father and his rival!"
"Well damn son, tell me more." Oh this is definitely something I'll be looking up later.
"As a kind of peace offering, Biggie's daughter wanted to release a set of Monsters for Tupac, and Pegasus liking the idea of lowering the tensions between the fans agreed. Biggie even gifted him a deck to Tupac in person." Kongo searched for Tupac's deck and presented his phone to me which I take. Deadth Jetters. Ohhh, like DJ.
"It's a strategy deck based on locking down opponents backrow so they can only use Monster cards to try and beat him. There's a whole video online with Tupac thanking Biggie for the gift." Kongo then retrieved his phone to search for something else.
"Of course she couldn't leave her dad high and dry so to show some love, she made him his own deck. It's called BB for Bash Brothers." I take his phone and look through Biggie's deck. It was a Warrior deck that specializes in Turboing out its Ace Monster.
You would think, or rather I did, that Biggie's Deck would have an advantage towards Tupac but a few DJ cards had some form of protection against the Bash Brother Monster effects. From what I'm reading there was a even split between the win-loss ratio between the 2 Titans of Rap so I guess it was true. Bash Brothers focused on Burn damage from Tributing their monsters for stronger ones. I guess that's supposed to be like spitting insults during a rap battle. Gotta see if I can add some to my deck. I guess in this world these 2 were Duelists, in the studio and in the streets. That was pretty fucking awesome.
"Man I have been missing out. So they still rapping?" I was really excited to hear the songs they could have released if they were still alive in my world.
"Not really, with how big Brooklyn Mint has gotten Biggie had to retire from the scene so he could focus on his clothing label. There's a lot of clientele regardless of body size so he's been busy." Kongo took some time to catch up on breathing cause he was speaking pretty fast. Guess he was really a fan of these guys.
"Tupac on the other hand is Hollywood now. He's been in some bangers and he keeps rising up in the movie industry. His name now brings a lot of fans to make a movie into a summer blockbuster. They still release singles from time to time and they haven't lost their touch. Some might say they've gotten better like me!" Ohhh, better see what movies he starred in then. Another thing to add to the list.
Kongo continues. "Tupac is also a political activist for Equal Rights for the African Americans... but you know how it's going." Kongo winces and I do too. I remember reading upon the fact that equality was a much bigger issue here in this world because of what happened in the 60's here.
Luther King's assassination was much more bloody here with several of the protests ending in bloodshed. I couldn't help but let a sigh escape from my lips. I guess hate was still a big problem here as well.
"It's getting better from what I hear. Tupac started a podcast to voice out his thoughts on the situation and how it can be improved with Biggie also helping how he can with his company. Several other artists are also supporting the cause. Including Industrial Illusions." Another thing to add to the lis-
I chuckle when the self awareness hits me. I guess that was going to be one of my catchphrases here. Kongo on the other hand thought I was annoyed.
"Ahh... Sorry man. Didn't mean to spring all this on ya. I barely get to talk with my own mates about this and I guess the dam broke." I stop Kongo from getting the wrong message.
"It's cool dude. I'm actually really enjoying our talk. It's been a while since I've talked to anyone regarding my home so this has been nice and hey. If your friends don't like hearing about this then it's their loss." If there's one thing I learned from my first life, friends should get excited about other friends interests or at least be happy for them.
"Huh... really?" Kongo adopted a thoughtful looked that kinda made him look sad. I guess his friends don't really like him talking about rap.
"Really dude. If they're annoyed about you talking about this stuff then maybe it's time to look for some new friends but that's just me talking. No need to take it as an advice." I add, don't want him to blame me if something backfires.
"No, no. I get it." Kongo then whispers something to himself which I was able to hear. "Honoki and Ikazan don't mind but Kousho on the other hand..." Kongo grimaced momentarily before shaking his head.
I was curious about one thing however. I heard from Damian that the war between East side rappers and West side rappers got pretty bad in my world. Did a gift exchange was a that was needed to calm tensions between the 2 factions? "Hey if you don't mind me bringing it back a few steps, was the Deck giving really the thing to calm the two sides down?"
Kongo snorts. "I wish. It's not as bad as it was back then but there's still some tension among the fans. With the extreme ones rather than the casual or devoted fans. Biggie and Tupac tried to do a peace summit with a." Kongo pauses for a bit to remember something. "A Minister Farrakhan. Yeah. With Minister Farrakhan, the 2 tried to calm everyone down but not everyone agreed with it. Some fans and artists called the 2 traitors and smaller factions formed. Even 10 years later, the 2 of them are trying to get the issue resolved."
"More power to them to stop the hate. God knows there's too much in these worlds." I muse depressingly before freezing.
"Uhh Worlds?" Kongo asked me confusingly.
I lie quickly on the spot. "The world. Sorry, I'm still grasping on the local language."
"Nah man, what you said to me right back at ya. It's pretty decent. At least compared to my English!" He laughed while I laughed weakly. Bullet dodged... I mean- Oh you know what I mean.
"Hey? You mind me asking what you're doing here in Japan?" Kongo asked before quickly assuring me that he didn't mean for his question to sound insulting. "I mean, what brought you here?"
"Duel Academy, I'm moved here to try and see if I can get into Central." I still haven't got into researching that. I have been busy... Yeah that sounded like a lame excuse. I forgot about it, okay?
"Damn dude! That's a pretty lofty goal! I'm also gonna do the entrance exams as well." I smiled.
"I hope we both get in. That way I have a friend with me when I attend. God knows I'll need some friends when I enter. My prospect in attending there don't look too good." I wonder of our meeting was brought along by fate... Why did I get an ominous feeling when I asked that?
"Yeah me too! But what do you mean don't look to good?" Kongo took out his deck to place his purchased card into it.
"Ehhh I guess I can tell you. I'm Katsuya Jounochi's apprentice and not too many people are happy about that." I brace myself for his reaction and hope his won't be like the many others online.
"Damn dude! How'd you score that? Kousho got pissed when he heard about some dude getting the spot! That was you?" Color me surprised. Looks like he was one of the minority regarding my situation.
"Not sure myself. I think it was more luck than anything. He had to visit me at the orphanage." Kongo winced and looked uncomfortable at my blunt explanation.
"Shit dude, sorry about..." Kongo struggled to finish off his sentence. I guess he felt bad about me not having any parents.
"It's fine." Kongo winced at my tone. Even after all these years, I was still bitter about my parents. More my father than my mother. "It's been years and I got used to it."
"Still man, sorry for bringing it up." Kongo switched the topic and we both knew it was a unsubtle attempt. Nevertheless, I embraced the opportunity. "Here's hoping we both in. Hope you can make it Westside." He smirks in a jovial manner and I give a smirk back.
"Back at ya Eastside." Before we continue with our conversation Kongo's phone started ringing and he looked at me for permission to answer it. I nod.
"Hey man wassu- No, I'm still on the way. Yeah I know but I found a card I've been looking for. Dude chill, I'm like 10 mins away tops. Aite aite, cool your head dude I'm coming." He hangs up and grunts annoyingly at his phone. "God damnit Kousho..." He whispers to himself. I pretended to act as if I was on my phone since I felt uncomfortable at watching Kongo being pissed off .
"Listen bro, I'm late for a meeting with my crew, you're gonna be working here for a while?" Kongo asked.
"Barring any unforeseen circumstances, yeah man. See you around?" I offer a fist bump.
"See ya around dude! Later!" He taps my knuckles with his and heads out of store.
Godspeed Kongo. I wish you the strength to deal with that kind of friend. Kousho sounded like a dick rather than a friend.
"Hey Brat! It's closing time! Time to close up shop! We're getting Sushi afterwards!" I hear Jounochi yell from beyond the door.
Made a new friend, did my job, even got a few Duels in for the day and now we're getting sushi Life was great.
Unlike the previous nights, we all went to a fancy restaurant to which I protested at first as I suspected that the stuff we would be ordering would be expensive as fuck. Needless to say, I was ignored since it was explained to me that Jounochi made an appointment and cancelling it would've been a hassle. I was dragged into the sushi shop - Shinkyoji-in which made anyone who saw us burst out laughing when they say my comically enraged expression. Schadenfreude loving bastards.
The interior decoration had that traditional Japanese vibe I always liked: Bright wooden walls, a white cloth hanging in the entrance substituting as a door, lacquered bamboo buckets of ice that held shrimps and other crustaceans eaten in a place like this and Geta sandals we had to wear when we entered the premises. The only tables I can spot were in front of the sushi counters. I'm guessing those Shoji doors led to other rooms, how very private and just the way I like it. Overall this place gave me the impression that this was a restaurant people would go to to impress someone. I wonder why we came here.
As we sat down near the counters where we could see the chefs work, these are the best seats in the shop by the way, we saw right in front of us the various cuts of fishes and other delicacies normally served in a restaurant such as this. I even saw some sea urchin- OHHH THAT BLUEFIN LOOKS DELICIOUS!
"So brat, choose whatever you like. We're celebrating today." Jounochi said which made me break my gaze from the marbled goodness in front of me.
"Celebrating? For what?" It wasn't anyone's birthday as far as I knew so it can't be that.
"Oh for this, Ainsley-kun. This came in the mail today, I forgot to tell you earlier. It's from Duel Academia." Shizuka fished out an envelope from her handbag and passed it over to me, who incidentally froze when I registered what she said.
I grasped the envelope and stare at it for a bit. It was a simple looking thing, this. Here it was. The sign that told me it was the beginning of my journey. The beginning to all that crap that happened in GX. First was normal school life which suddenly escalated into that shadow rider nonsense. After that was the brainwashing cult then Miss Yandere. I won't lie and say I wasn't nervous when I spotted the DA wax seal. Suddenly this paper weighed as heavy as lead.
"Don't tell me you're chickening out of this, brat." Jounochi teased.
"As if, old man!" I was here now and it was too late to stop. So with gusto, I tear the envelope open while relishing the chocking sound from Jounochi.
I open the folded letter and read the following.
"Dear Mr. Julian Ainsley,
It is my honor, and my personal privilege, to announce your successful enrollment to our prestigious Academy for your further education.
Your seed, to enter, has been activated and while it is unfortunate that it took the tragic loss of your parents to achieve this, I along with my several of my staff welcome you to our school.
We have received all your documents regarding your previous education and have concluded that you will fit perfectly as one of our own.
Upon finishing this letter, please call the following number at your leisure:
0772-103130
To schedule an appointment for your interview with one of our member of staff. Please note, the phone line will only be available on weekdays between the hours of 8am to 5pm and that the deadline will be till March 22nd 2004.
Unlike the typical hopeful entrée, you will not be taking a test in order to apply to our Academy. More shall be explained by our illustrious Instructor of the Dueling Program once an appointment has been made.
We hope your stay with us will be a fortuitous one as we help expand your skills to enter the word post graduation.
Welcome to Duel Academia.
From
Samejima Deni-onigata.
Chancellor of Duel Academy and Principle of the Central School of Duel Academia."
"Huh." I let out. I wasn't expecting that. No tests?
"Well? What's it say?" I look up too see the expectant looks of all 3 adults. I let out a small smile.
"I'm in..."
All 3 loudly cheer in joy, garnering the looks of the other customers who popped their heads out from their rooms as they were curious about what was going on. The staff congratulated me along with the adults and proceeded to bust out something they prepared for our group specifically. Jounochi rubs my head excitedly while Shizuka wipes off the tears of happiness. Sugoroku lets a soft smile fill his face as he looked at me with pride. I felt my cheeks flare up from their response. I'm not used to this.
Dinner became a quiet affair as we ate. Before we ordered anything, the servers brought out 4 whole platers of sushi and placed them in front of us. "It's on the house, Katsuya-sama is a regular here. When he told us that he was bringing you along to celebrate your enrollment, we made this. Please enjoy." I dumbly nod as I was paying more attention to what was on the platter. I could count up to at least 12 different Nigiri's. Along with the obligatory salmon and tuna but there was also shrimp, egg, scallop and several other seafoods I couldn't identify. They all tasted delicious.
"Slow down, Onii-chan. This isn't a competition. That goes to you as well Ainsley-kun." Shizuka commented as she witnessed the both us instantaneously clean our platter.
"Mah ba shis." and "Suuawry shenshey." came from our mouths as we replied back to Shizuka. It was bad table manners but you would have done the same with how delicious it was.
We all chatted amongst each other over how our days when while we waited for our orders. I had a huge hankering to devour some tuna and salmon so I asked for a bunch of those. Nigiris, sashimi and some Maki. It took what felt like an eternity until how food showed up. I didn't even wait for the others.
"Itadakimasu~." Grabbing my chopsticks, I picked a Bluefin Tuna Nigiri and ate it and by the Food Gods did I wept over how good it was. Despite the fact we were eating this gorgeous delicacy in the evening, somehow the fish tasted as if it was still fresh.
Oh dear lord how I have missed this. The buttery fat of the Chūtoro and how the tuna would just melt in your mouth. The spicy aroma of wasabi, AND NONE OF THAT TUBE SHIT! The horseradish plant was grated and grinded which turned the resulting shredded wasabi into paste and I can't forget to mention about the soy sauce! Oh Marone, the sauce! Too bad I couldn't get any sake. Personally, I thought it would have finished the ensemble in a satisfying conclusion and would have made everything about this dinner absolutely perfect. Too bad that I was, you know, under age.
Oh, can't forget about the salmon! This particular cut of the fish was so soft to touch and the juices that erupted when I took a bite! By this point I could not do anything but perform multiple Chef's kisses to show just how much I appreciated the food to the servers and the chefs. I think I ate in total around 20 pieces of individual sushi before I came to my senses.
I ordered a cold Zaru Udon with some green tea to finish off the meal for the night. Today's dinner was the best I had so so far in this life and the last. Don't get me wrong, I had some fantastic meals in my old world it was just that I can't remember the last time I had something this good. I still felt that little bit of guilt with how much I was eating but I quickly erased that thought when I remembered what Jounochi said earlier.
"I took you on not only as an apprentice but also as a caretaker. Which means I will be responsible in making sure you are taking care of, got it? You already know that I've got a lot of money so spending this much is okay. So cut that shit out, you hear?" Jounochi finally reached his limit and scolded me when I kept my stance before we ordered.
"While I wouldn't have said it in the same way, I agree with Onii-chan. You have us now and it's okay for you to rely on us, okay?" As Shizuka said her piece, Sugoroku nailed the final nail in the coffin regarding this issue.
"Like I said, my boy. We're here for you. In fact, now we're on this subject." Sugoroku picked up another envelope from one of the pockets from his overalls and handed it to me. "This is for you. This should help with what I think is stressing you out. Hopefully, we can clear this matter today, once and for all." What's with today and handing me things in envelops?
I was about to put it away when Sugoroku stopped me and gestured for me to open it. I open the envelop to find... Money. That's money. I looked back up.
"That's your salary. You've been working for me for 5 days, full ones at that, and I couldn't just not pay you. I double checked with immigration to see if I could do this and they gave me a yes." But that's not how a student Visa worked in Japan! You had to apply for a work permit and various other things to even be able to get a part-time job in Japan. I guess the old man could see what I was thinking since he erased my concern.
Sugoroku smiled brightly and explained. "This wouldn't have been possible for a normal Visa but yours is special. Yours is sponsored by Kaiba Corp and you have benefits because of that. Don't ask me for more details but the gist of it is, I can pay you for working. ご苦労様でした." It was at this point where my order came.
I bowed my head to Sugoroku to thank him as I was extremely grateful for all the things he has done for me today. This really did relieve my fear for the future as I checked off one of the major points in my list.
Jounochi snorted before smiling. "And there you have it. So don't worry about this sort of stuff okay? That's our job from now on. Let us help you, you brat." Something got in my eye and rubbed it till it went away. Which brings us to now.
We were all nearly finished with Jounochi and I the only ones still eating. I other a bunch of stuff so it was obvious why I hadn't finished. Jounochi on the other hand signed autographs for the customers who recognized him. He said he didn't mind since he enjoyed meeting his fans. It annoyed me a bit when people kept asking to take photographs with him. I didn't like getting my picture taken.
Speaking of annoyances, there was something currently that nagged me. The fact that Yugi Muto had to skip on us again for the second time. "How come Yugi-san couldn't make it today again? " I whined while I slurped down my noodles.
"Why are you complaining? That's my job." Jounochi replied while he also slurped down on his soba. "I get that he's busy but I haven't seen my Aibou in." Jounochi paused to mentally calculate how long it's been since he last saw his best friend. "6 Months. Parenthood does that to your schedule."
Shizuka smacks our heads at the same time. "No talking while eating you two."
"Yes ma'am" We say while nursing our heads.
"Like what Jounochi-kun said. Yugi's timetable is swamped because of Umé-chan. Don't worry. You'll get to see him one day, my boy." Sugoroku said as he sipped on his tea.
'I doubt it old man. With how it's been, I don't think I'll ever see him in person at this rate.' I thought. Was I ever going to meet him?
Actually, how did Jounochi know I got in?
Far away from Tokyo, in an darkened room sat a person on a chair they read through certain documents. The desk lamp was on so they could read whatever it was they were holding unimpaired. The silhouette of this person did not indicate their gender as there were too many contradicting features. Slim shoulders yet one can see the noticeable Adam's apple on their neck. A voice more closer to a males but they wore earrings that were feminine in design. Polished nails and yet they wore cologne.
It was well past office hours and yet this person was still working diligently. Not because they were asked to work late (they always stayed later than everyone else because of how dedicated they were to their job). Not because they couldn't finished their tasks for today (they always finish faster than everyone else). And certainly not because they were lazy (they've already finished finalizing the budget that supposed to take till the end of the week to finish).
"Hmm, Che stancante. There can be only so many papers I can go through before this all becomes droll. It's unfortunate. If they were interesting to read then it would have been much more fulfilling. Ugh not another one. Cosa sai fare?"
The sound of a grandfather clock clanged around the office as it reached 10pm. The figure in the shadows briefly stopped in their marking before sighing as they finished up for today. While they loved working productively even they knew the body needed rest. Ugh. The failings of the flesh. Why couldn't they be more like the Monsters that resided in their Deck.
Setting away the papers that needed to be examined to one side, the shadowed person went over their personal planner to see what they needed to do tomorrow.
"Final approval of the staff changes, meeting with other heads to discuss the updated regulations and... oh yes. The Americano. He should have received his letter today. He better not be a disappointment like so many of the others that go here. I wonder if he's worth the trouble..."
After tidying up their desk, they reached for the switch to turn off the lights as they spoke out loud what was going through their mind before an unseen audience. "The next few days will be interesting, is that not so~?" An ominous CLICK echoes in the room as they flipped the lights off.
Turn 4 - 3 months left. Oh bother - End
I added a bit extra at the end with Julian as an apology for the late release. Basically some story fluff stuff.
Onto the reviews!
Reviewer Corner
Zeromk7
Thanks for the that spot! Yes, he's starting to relax a bit so more of his real/youthful self is starting peek out. Expect him to get more hammy since hammy is the way in the world. After all Duel Monsters can be a spectator sports considering how many people tune in to watch.
Master of Ghost
And I love your appreciation!
Zet4
I mentioned this at the top but allow me to explain a bit more here. I will be posting here as well so don't worry if I focus more on the other site than here. I will not lie, there will be times where I will post on that site more, mostly cause it's easier to interact with people who read the story and that's one of the things I love the most about doing this. To clarify, more as in I will post on that site first rather than here. Mostly because it can get locked if no one comments in the thread after a certain amount of days from what I've read.
Gentlemen Rance-T.M
There will be more instances where this situation happens again. It will be explained eventually. Right now it's a race to see whether Julian notices it or if someone tells him.
The-Anti-Akuma
No, I don't use Grammarly to write. As I understand it, the app is more for "business writing" e.g. Important emails, writing a thesis so on so forth. I've been told that Grammarly doesn't help with writing in a more free form manner so I didn't bother but yes. I do wish I had some sort of tool to help me spot these mistakes as they are something I constantly make. An experienced Beta would be nice but I'm not at a point where people would be interested in doing that. Anyway, I hope you liked this chapter!
Icappas
Yup, it's extraordinary for both points. The pain is something I've been hinting at and 'am currently seeing if anyone guesses the reason correctly. As for the price, the story made a big deal about rare cards and such that there was even a criminal organization made because of that. I have my own head canon that I'm going to sprinkle out within the story so wait for the proper answer then!
Middernacht
Here's your update!
Viniciussantiagosousa
I'm glad you enjoy it!
AmanoRyo
Not sure what you mean by OC cards in the second chapter. If you're talking about the Landstar Monsters, those are Anime Only Cards. I will be making OC cards but I will be keeping a tight leash on it as I agree with your point about there are already a bunch of cards for me to abuse. The OC cards are more for Monsters I have selected that were released in the GX era to give it a boost, Like Infernal Flame Emperor in the previous chapter for example. I was going to give the Alien Archetype the OC Card treatment like I implied but Konami announced that Aliens were getting supports. Didn't that surprise me.
Also as you saw, I added 2 OC archetypes and even briefly explained how they functioned. That is what you can expect with how I introduce new OC Cards. I won't have any original character or canon character use a completely OC Deck since that will just make things difficult for me. There's like thousands I can choose from and I love deck building (Whether I am good at deck building is a entirely different thing).
Continuing on, I'm glad you're enjoying the story! However that being said, I am going to have to clarify on something. On the 3rd point, Julian didn't feel good from defeating Akio but he felt good from being able to breath in cold air. I probably should word it different but that's what it was supposed to be. He was basically being slow cooked in 40/50ish degree Celsius and was having trouble breathing.
As for the Spellbooks and Kaiju? Well... wait for the next chapter.
Review Corner over!
Leave a review if you liked the chapter, if you spotted a mistake or if you have any criticism.
Until next time, stay safe everyone!
and HAPPY EASTER~
April 8th 2021 - Correcting grammar and spelling.
