Hey! Thanks to everyone who's commented and read this story so far! I know not a lot of people read Yu-Gi-Oh GX fanfics but there's those out there who wants a good story to read. There's no real long stories for this category (except for Supreme King Jaden, which I HIGHLY recommend you read if you want a deck based off SLY COOPER!) so I wanted to make a good story.
Edit: 26/01/2017
This chapter originally reveals a secret to Bastion and Jenny but I've kind of ruined it. For those who knew what it is from the first read through, then it made no sense to Jaden's character on how he interacts with the others as it goes on, so I'll be a little stricter to following to the character development this time and I'll have things work out a little more realistically. I mean, if you experience a traumatic experience, then you wouldn't like to discuss it openly to people you only just met.
Having moments myself of that kind, I've decided to remove that small bit in this chapter and it won't be revealed until later on in the story. Like before though, it's a very quick duel.
I also had a small thought and I added a new scene to the chapter, hence the MASSIVE bump up in words this time around! As in; this chapter was originally a word-count of eleven and a half-thousand words and is now (including the AN) a staggering NINETEEN THOUSAND AND SEVEN WORDS! O.O'
Anyway, it's a pretty sweet moment and a lot of fans wanted to see this. If anyone reading this would be able to draw a picture or is willing to draw one I can use as the new cover photo, then please message me! I'll give you snuggles and you can pet my tails and I can be adorable! X3 *fluffs tails and wags them happily!*
Don't be afraid to message me or leave reviews if you like the changes or not; I just read through it all and noted that I started this a looooooooong time ago and I (think I) have gotten better in my writing skills since then. So let me know if you like the changes or not! X3
(Also! Chapter title will also be changed to fit!)
~Enter The King!~
~Welcome To Duel Academy!~
It had been a lazy two hours since the ferry left Domino City, taking its passengers across the ocean to their new home for the next few years: Duel Academy's Central Branch; a small tropical island situated fourteen hours from Domino City. While many people would see the problems that would be caused from being on an island away from the mainland, people have been assured that any and all faculties will be present on the island, promised by the head of the Academy himself. While normally the Academy would have a complimentary flight service (free of charge) to escort the students, both students and teachers alike were confused as to why the sudden change of transport. No-one knew a thing...
... almost.
~Flashback: Seven Hours Earlier: Domino City Airport~
"I hate planes. I hate the turbulence, I hate the feeling of jet lag and I despise the food! I would rather the crossing over by ferry; there's so much more to do on a ferry and it's a damn sight better than planes!" Jaden ranted, much to the amusement of his three lady-escorts; Burstinatrix, Kiyomi and Ayumi. He had already been given his welcome pack earlier on that morning when walking through the terminal; which had his new uniform and everything he would need for the Academy... but decided that he didn't want to open it until they reached the island. While everyone wore clothes accommodating the heatwave that passed through the City, he had decided on wearing a black t-shirt with the design of the three ladies on the front (something they were very pleased with and was an early morning package delivered to him by one of his benefactors), a white pair of knee-length camo shorts and flip-flops. He also had a pair of designer sunglasses on top of his head, just in case.
"Awww, is our cute Jay-Jay afwaid of the big bad pwane?" Kiyomi teased playfully to him, wearing her 'off-hours' outfit; an orange tube top, that flaunted her moderate B-cup breasts and her smooth tanned stomach, denim shorts that just showed enough cheek but not enough to be consider 'tarty' and a pair of black summer sandals. She also had a white summer's bag which hung off her left shoulder and a pair of sunglasses tucked down the front of her top.
"Who would ever think that the Supreme King would be scared of heights? Go figure!" Burstinatrix laughed a bit more openly, having also dressed down; a flowery cream top, knee-length red skirt and black calf-high boots. Unlike normal, she also decided to tie her hair back into a ponytail, much like Kiyomi had done.
"Oh, play nice. We'll be there if he needs someone to hold his hand." Ayumi finished with another of her trademark tinkling giggles as she wore a light, white summer dress with a pair of sunglasses and sun-hat. She was the only one of the three girls who decided to leave her hair down and have it cascade like a golden waterfall, enhanced by the sun's rays.
"This isn't funny!" Jaden pouted childishly before chuckling himself in how childish he must have looked right then. "Right, that's it! Girls, I want you to make sure that the plane cannot and will not be used today." he ordered.
"Yes, your Highness!" they all mock-curtsied, more than amused at the fact that he wanted something so petty done. He shook his head in exasperation but a smile remained on his face as he waited for the job to be done.
(Later On...)
"What do you mean it's not flyable!?" Crowler fumed down the phone, scaring the poor person on the other end of the line as he was boring enough to wear his usual attire despite the unnatural heatwave. Most of the students began whispering among themselves and breaking off into their little social circles as they were confused as to what'll happen with getting them to Duel Academy. While they all continued to whisper among themselves, Jaden had found a secluded spot in the shade with a crate for him to sit down on as the three duel spirits joined him and sat surrounding him. They were still within a good ten meters of Crowler but were distanced enough not to be bothered by other students; having already getting sour looks form a majority of the male population as they saw him with three gorgeous women. The female students were also sending jealous looks to the three girls, wanting to be in their position after the news spread that a Pro Circut Duelist would be joining their year.
"Hey, Jay!" Syrus called out to him, snapping Jaden out of his thoughts as he, Bastion and Jenny ran over to where they were sitting. Syrus had opted to wear a (somewhat) kiddish-ensemble of a light-blue t-shirt and a pair of white shorts, finishing the get up with matching white trainers. Jaden idly noted that his glasses had reactor lenses and made a note to see about getting himself a pair as well. Bastion had taken to wearing a plain white short-sleeved shirt and a pair of blue ironed jeans, finished with a pair of brown loafers and a black leather jacket that was draped over his arm. Jenny he had to double take at because he never would believe that she would be the type of person to wear what she's wearing now: a tight black tube-top that seemed to strain against her bust area and reveal her slim and toned stomach, a similar pair of light blue denim shorts to that of Kiyomi's and a pair of black flip-flops. Her hair was let loose for a change and a set of glasses kept her bangs out of her eyes. Over her left shoulder was a sports backpack which he assumed held her other stuff.
"Hey guys! What's up?" Jaden asked, not paying attention to Syrus' fish impression being surrounded by the three gorgeous women. "Why aren't we leaving, yet?"
"That's the thing, Jaden. There seems to be a problem with the plane that's supposed to take us there but they're not quite sure what the problem is..." Bastion trailed off. "Even Crowler's mentioned that this is the first year something like this has happened to them." he finished.
"More than likely that something might be wrong with the engines. If not, then the next likeliest case would be some loose piece of metal in the propellers that could jeopardize the flight." he replied smoothly, earning a suspicious look from him. "I've been on my fair share of planes and they seem to be the most common." he smoothly lied, ignoring the giggles from the three girls around him.
"I suppose that could be the case..." Bastion replied, intrigued but willing to let it go with a hint of a smile on his face. Jenny walked up to him and paused slightly from the sight of the three women and felt a little envy for being so close to him but quickly shook the feeling away, leaving herself wondering why she felt that way.
"So, who are these three lovely ladies?" Jenny asked, smiling. However, Jaden knew the smile was forced as it didn't reach her eyes... more than likely because of the fact that three gorgeous women surrounded him. He simply shook his head and decided to ease the girl's fears.
"Ah, ladies! Let me introduce you to Syrus Truesdale, Bastion Misawa and Jennifer of my newest friends I made yesterday!" he introduced the three by name. "Everyone? This may seem a bit hard to believe but these three lovely women are some of my closest friends and I've known them for years; Trix, Kiyomi and Ayumi. The truth is... that they're three of my Duel Spirits." he finished, shocking the three of them as he spoke quiet enough to keep it a secret. "They're more here for my benefit more than anything but it keeps people from hassling me as well. Well, physically anyway." he grinned cheekily, earning a few laughs from everyone there.
"Hey!" Syrus smiled shyly, blushing a little from the combined beauty. The three coo'd at him and hugged him, making his blush darker.
"Pleasure to make your acquaintances." Bastion bowed, earning a giggle from the ladies when he kissed their hands politely and courteously.
"H-Hey..." Jenny stammered, cursing herself as she looked away from them. The three spirits turned to one another and shared a knowing look among them before simply giving the girl a tender hug from each of them. She was surprised but the action eased her fears again when they mentioned something in her ear, also causing her to blush a little.
"Hey there!" the three duel spirits replied in sync, smiling warmly at the three. The cozy atmosphere was lost when-
"STUDENTS!?" Crowler yelled with a shrill, grabbing everybody's attention. "There has been a problem with the engines having been placed under a great deal of heat; melting some of the parts. The company has been contacted and will send us a replacement ferry to take us to the Academy. You all have three hours until the ferry arrives. Now, scram!" he explained before shooing the students away as he made a phone call and walked off.
"Told you so." Jaden mused as he stood up, earning a shake of the head from Bastion as he now knew Jaden had a part in it. "So, we have three hours to kill; how about we grab some food, check out the card shops and grab a few trinkets for ourselves to take with us?" he offered, smiling at his successful infiltration. "I can check if my friend's grandpa is still running his card shop."
"Mind if I join you guys?" a deep voice called out to them as Jaden began smiling while everyone else began gawking when they faced the newcomer.
"Yug! I'm surprised to see you here!" Jaden smiled as he hugged the former Pharaoh. "I take it Téa's been nagging for some quality time with you?" he smirked, nudging his side. Yugi had the decency to blush a little but he never refuted the claim as he coughed into his hand.
"She can be a feisty one... of course, you should know after the 'pizza incident'." Yugi smirked as he watched the colour in Jaden's face be completely drained. This earned the attention of those who didn't know abouth this and paid rapt attention to the story.
"It was Joey who started the whole thing, not me!" Jaden retorted as he noticed the shocked looks on his friends' faces. "Oh! Manners! Yugi, meet my friends; Syrus Truesdale, Jenny Andrews and Bastion Misawa." he introduced. "I believe you guys know who this is?"
"Y-Yugi Moto!" Syrus yelled shaking hands with his idol and the King of Games. "I'm a huge fan of yours!"
"For real! I can't believe I'm meeting you in person!" Jenny squealed as she shook his hand before dragging him into a hug, much to Jaden's amusement.
"The legend in the flesh. It is a great honour to meet you, Yugi!" Bastion bowed respectfully, earning a nod from Yugi in return.
"The pleasure is all mine." Yugi smiled as he turned to the three spirits. "Hello Trix, Kiyomi."
"Heya Yugi!" the said girls replied, smiling at him as his attention turned to the third spirit.
"I don't believe we've met in person, yet..." Yugi hinted as he faced the blonde.
"Ah, o-of course! My name is Ayumi. You met me yesterday, actually." she bowed as Yugi turned to Jaden and received a nod.
"Oh, of course! Pleasure to meet you, Ayumi." he smiled. "Now, I heard that your flight is delayed?"
"Engine problems, so it'll take two hours for a replacement ferry to come along." Jaden explained as he got to his feet and streched. "Fancy grabbing Téa and joining us for a little while? It'd be sweet to catch up with you both!" Jaden grinned, earning a rare grin in return from Yugi as the two of them bumped fists.
"I like the sound of that. Let's make tracks." Yugi smiled in kind as the eight of them made their way into the city itself to pass the next three hours.
~End Flashback!~
Thanks to the little stunt he had successfully pulled off, the nine of them (including Téa, who hugged Jaden to death upon seeing him) managed to head out around the various shops and pick up some souvenirs and trinkets ready for their stay on Duel Academy island; Téa (much to everyone's surprise) had gotten along with Bastion like a house on fire and ended up buying a collection of books for him to read should he ever find himself wanting to delve into something new and keep him occupied. Yugi had teasingly bought a Dark Magician Girl plushy for Syrus (much to everyone's amusement and his embarrassment) and Syrus had started talking with him about dueling tips and some techniques. Meanwhile, Jaden had spent a little bit of time with Jenny, after the three duel spirits had decided to go shopping for new clothes. So while they were looking around, she had her eyes on a certain charm necklace and he had ended up buying it for her, hidden behind the purchase of an acoustic guitar for himself. She blushed when she felt him place the necklace around her neck but she couldn't deny that his hands were soft and so incredibly warm to the touch.
After their little shopping spree, the remaining six of them made their way towards Yugi's Card Shop and had given them a few free packs to help bolster their decks in preparation for their time away, much to everyone's surprise and gratitude.
Syrus was ecstatic as he had managed to pull out three copies of Dark Magician Girls and two Dark Magicians. Thanks with a little help and guidance from Yugi; Syrus and Yugi had sat down and was given a bunch of new cards that, when totaled up, meant that he now had a spellcaster deck that was fit and partly-built by the 'King of Games' himself. Jenny had managed to pull a few rare dragon cards but squealed the shop down when she drew a Blue-Eyes White Dragon from one of the packs she was given. Courtesy of Yugi's Grandpa, she was also given a few more cards to accompany the legendary beast and found herself bouncing in anticipation of using them in a duel. Intrigued at the thought of a dragon-user using the selfsame cards that Kaiba was famous for, Jaden kept that piece of information safe for a later date when he could pull a few strings.
The three duel spirits had caught them back up with their clothes stashed away before they said their farewells and returned to Jaden's deck; just as Yugi and Téa parted ways as well but not before a group photo that Jenny and Syrus were adamant about having. I mean... when do you get the chance to have a group photo with the 'King of Games' and his apprentice, who happened to be the 'Elemental King' himself? Plus the opportunity to see Yugi with his fiancée, Téa, was a rare feat itself.
So now? The ferry had arrived and the students bound for the island had admitted that they were all grateful for the replacement of transport; giving them much more to do to pass the time before they reached their destination tomorrow afternoon. So making the most of the sun and the hot weather; he, Bastion and Jenny were all occupying three of the deck chairs while poor Syrus remained in his cabin, trying his hardest not to get seasick. Bastion was content reading one of the new books he picked up, while Jaden and Jenny decided to lay back and catch some rays.
While she was bathing, she remembered something that one of his spirits had told her and it had been nagging her like a small voice in the back of her head. She sighed as she turned her head towards Jaden and paused for a few momemnts before finding the courage to speak.
"Jay?" she asked, sitting up on her chair. She had tied her hair into a bun, holding it in place with a pin, while she slipped into an alluring two-piece black bikini that attracted a lot of attention from a majority of the male students around the pool. She was a C-cup, it turned out, as she told Jaden her measurements while shopping for some swimwear shortly after he had bought her the necklace, that was devilishly nestled in her cleavage. He couldn't complain as he couldn't stop sneaking glances at her... which he swore was the reason she bought them.
Strange.
"Jen? What's up?" he asked back, tilting his head towards her.
"Something's been bothering me and I'm wondering if it isn't too much for you to explain..." she started asking but trailed off unassuredly, blushing slightly towards the end.
"Alright, what's the matter?" he asked her, lifting his sunglasses up and focusing his attention on her face.
"Those three women... what were they to you?" she probed, slightly guilty for prying on his personal affairs. "I-I'm sorry! I shoul-"
"Hey! It's alright!" he interrupted her tirade, calming her down. "Let me explain; you know that some people can see duel spirits and interact with them?" he asked. She nodded slowly, curious as to where the topic will lead. "Well, I have an ability which allows me to give duel spirits a small amount of time where they can physically appear before us. I said earlier to you three; those three ladies were duel spirits from my deck." he explained, getting a wide-eye response from the girl next to him.
"Woah! So, if they were duel spirits... which ones were they?" she asked, now curious on who they were.
"You believe me?" he dead-panned, earning one in kind.
"Yeah. I can see spirits too, you know?" she pouted, adding to her alluring figure. He shook his head to dispel the thoughts but soon continued.
"Ah, alright then. The three of them were all Elemental Heroes; Burstinatrix, Lady Heat and Supernova." he replied. Jen's amber orbs widened slightly as she clicked her fingers.
"I thought the blonde one looked familiar!" she nodded to herself. "And do they... well, you know..." she trailed off, not knowing how to put her question across. Jaden sighed as he sat up on his chair and lifted his glasses off his face so he could look her in the eyes.
"I think I know where you're getting at." he paused, not wanting to explain this to her. "It's not well known and it's rarely been heard off but there have been cases of people getting into a relationship with a duel spirit. I'm not really sure what to class myself and the others but we're a lot... closer than most duel spirits are." he explained as he took a pause. '
"Right. That's all-" Jenny sighed, slightly disheartened by the news before she was interrupted by the brunette across from her.
"I've been an orphan my entire life." he started, taking small pauses to form the words in his head and stopping the redheads words in her mouth. Her head snapped towards him as she began processing the shocking news, wondering why he was telling her this. "My dad died before I was born and my mum died during childbirth. All I know about them is that they were both Pro Duelists and they had a savings account which I now own. I grew up in an orphanage for a few years but I was kicked out when the owner found out about my parent's wealth." he explained, watching the shock on her face as she listened to his story.
"When I was ten years old, I was living rough on the streets. I didn't find out about my account until four years ago, before you ask. The night which this story took place? It was pouring down with rain and I had to resort to sleeping under a bunch of filthy rags that someone threw out, much to my luck. There would be days where I would sleep with just the clothes I had on my back; sometimes just in whatever I could gather to protect what little modesty I could." he recalled.
Bastion and Jenny all listened intensively to his words as they could only begin to imagine the horrors he must have experienced... even more shocked at the fact that he was only ten when all of this happened. Inside, Jenny felt even more guiltier by intruding in his affairs; not wanting to have been told this if it meant explaining something to her.
"Without going into detail of... that..." he trailed off, going slightly pale and shuddering before calming himself down with deep breaths. "Because of something that happened to me when I was ten, it caused me to enter a two-year coma. During that time, I found myself mentally repressing my memories before I stumbled across something I shouldn't have known... not at that moment in time, anyways. There was, from what I was told, some close cases where my brain almost shut down from the sheer magnitude of stress I was dealing with."
Taking another moment to let that sink in, he looked up to find that the two of them had fallen silent. Jennifer looked like she was ready to bolt out of there crying and Bastion closed his eyes and lowered his head in reflection and shame. "Don't run, Jenny. You asked me and I'm telling you certain parts of the answer and keeping the rest for when I get to know you all better and I trust you all more, no offence." he softly spoken, earning two soft nods. "I found out that I have a portion of energy inside of me that links me to the former legend of the Supreme King of the Gentle Darkness." he explained, getting a gasp from Bastion.
"Y-You're his reincarnation?" he asked. Jaden chose to shake his head and leave that piece of information for another time, knowing they weren't mentally prepared for it.
"I'm not sure. All I found out while I was travelling through my subconsciousness, was that I had a small part of energy that my body naturally produces and also that I found a connection to a duel spirit that professed that she had ties to the former King; Yubel." Jaden replied as he clicked his fingers, allowing a card to appear in between his fingers and showing the two of them her card. "As long as I could remember, I always had this card around me and it was, and still is, my favorite card. Of course, all my cards are special to me but Yubel was there the night I slipped into my coma; doing her best to prevent me from dying from the numerous injuries I had sustained from that night. From what I was told, someone came across the scene and rescued me by crushing their minds. I found out that it was Yugi, himself, who found me and rushed me to the hospital."
"From here on, I was comatose so I'm telling you what I've been told. There was an uproar on the news about what happened and both Pegasus and Kaiba made their way towards the hospital as I was placed in the ICU Unit where they operated on me. They said I was lucky to survive but I would have severe trauma when I recovered. Pegasus immediately created a new series of cards for when I woke up; the Elemental Heroes and the Neos Heroes, the latter of which were based off drawings I submitted a year before in a competition. Meanwhile, Yugi signed legal guardianship over me and Kaiba paid for all my medical expenses." he explained. He noted that the area was empty of eavesdroppers and mentally reminded himself to thank his spirits the next time he saw them.
"When I came to out of my coma, I was placed in a psychiatric ward and went through eighteen months of mental rehab." he sighed, rubbing his fingers through his hair. He glanced up to see Jenny getting more restless as she fidgeted about before he softly patted the spot beside him. She hesitated before she slowly sat down beside him, still looking like she wanted to run away and hide. He gathered his confidence and took her hand into his, earning a startled gasp from the redhead. "I had three mental breakdowns, two mental relapses, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, depression and diagnosed as an extreme emotional introvert. I became wary of trusting people and I often ask my spirits for their advice on people because they've been there throughout each stage of my recovery." he explained.
"As for the girls... we do have intimacy but we've never had sex. It is possible but I won't bore you with the boring part." he tried grinning, earning a pitiful laugh from Jenny and a shake of the head from Bastion. "But those three girls, plus one more you haven't met yet... they've been everything I could ask for. If I needed sisters, they'd fall into that role. If I needed a motherly touch, they would get maternal towards me. If I needed to ask more... embarrassing questions, then they would try and explain it to me in a way I wouldn't feel uncomfortable or possibly trigger another relapse. But most of the time, they do act like..." he trailed off, trying to find a good explanation.
"Think of it as a cross between a girlfriend and a close friend with benefits. They'd give me a little intimacy but they'd never go further than what I'm comfortable with but have been trying to get me to push past the barriers at my own pace and just help me recover from everything. So while they're romantically involved, it's not a relationship as such." he finished explaining, feeling a hand on his shoulder. He glanced back to find Burstinatrix smile at him and squeeze his shoulder before disappearing once more.
"Thank you... thank you for trusting us with such an important secret, Jay. We feel honored that you trust us so much." Jenny whispered softly as she gently and slowly reached out to him and brought him into a tender hug. He froze up for a moment or two before he slowly returned the hug and tightened the grip, needing the contact right now.
"I agree. Such a burden to bear and such a tragic past; I wouldn't stoop so low as to betray the trust you confided in us, Jaden." Bastion agreed, his respect for the man in front of him rising considerably.
"Thank you." he replied, much happier and... lighter. "After I finally managed to learn the truth about what happened, I was presented my deck by Pegasus himself after I was moved to Yugi's place. He still lived with his grandfather in his shop, so I lived there for a few years; having Yugi teaching me how to duel like he does." he smiled, moving onto a happier topic.
"With Yugi now teaching me, the news had already reached the ears of a certain Pegasus; who told me that he saw interest in me and decided there and then to become my sponsor for when I hit the Pro-Circuit, back at the age of fourteen. After my first few official and professional wins with my Heroes deck, Pegasus decided to make me his official representative in dueling. He promised me that he'd only add more duelists to his roster if I was the one who trained or recommended them. So, a few years later, I find myself wanting to take a break from the norm and explore other opportunities. Kaiba suggested that I try out for Duel Academy, and I thought I should check it out and regain some normalcy from my warped childhood. That's pretty much it." he sighed as he closed his eyes, tired from the long explanation.
"You know," Jenny began slowly as she searched for the words she wanted, "You're nothing like what I expected. I mean... I've always been a fan of yours and I watched all your duels. The fact that you hit the pro scene at a young age? It made me wanna do the same and I dedicated my life into dueling and I practiced to get better than I was the day before so I could fulfill my dream. I've always loved dueling and I always wanted to follow in your footsteps." she smiled as she gladly professed before she remembered the conversation prior and lowered her head in shame
"I-I'm sorry for all the pain you suffered and I'm so sorry for making you remember it just to answer my stupid question," she berated herself. "But it only contributes to how strong-willed a person you are and how amazing you are in being able to endure through all the hurt and rise above it." she professed, gladly. She softly closed the distance once more and slowly wrapped her arms around his neck as she buried her head into his shoulder.
"I never would've believed anyone if they said that I'd be meeting my idol, let alone being in the same year as them in Duel Academy, but I'm really happy that I got to meet you and I'm honored that you trust me enough to confide in me; only knowing me for a day." she whispered quietly to him as she sighed in contentment. She felt him shift slightly as his arms rested on her back and gently squeezed her, making her relax further.
"You've always been a curious case, Jaden." the other male occupant followed up from his sunbed. "I've never believed in sheer luck and that there is always a formula to explain everything you wanted to know. Whether it's everyday occurrences or studying something people couldn't begin to fathom. Dueling, for me, has always been something I've been interested in." he began regaling Jaden with his own background.
"Having a knack in mathematics and science studies, I've always believed in working out and solving my problems in dueling with equations, theories, mathematics and statistics to structure my decks and to create the perfect deck for whoever I'm facing and exploit their weaknesses and render their cards obsolete. However, of all the people I've analyzed, both Yugi and yourself have been the only two duelists who I couldn't figure out or come up with a solid formula or counter-formula." he confessed with a small smirk on his face as Jaden softly chuckled in response.
"I've always heard about the term; the 'Heart of the Cards' but it's baffling to begin comprehending. Much like Jennifer is, I'm also a follower of yours. Taking the odds and performing indescribable and impossible feats and clinching the win after the odds were against you. Hearing everything you've said to us, my respect for you could only grow further as time goes on." he warmly smiled. "Now, I believe you would be better off grabbing some sleep for an hour or two. It'll help restore some of your emotional gathering." he recommended, looking out for him.
"I think that's a good idea." Jaden nodded as he rubbed the back of the girl that was cuddled up to him. "I'm glad to know I've given people a purpose in life and a dream to achieve." Jaden smiled warmly and proudly. "It's always an honor to meet my fans and to get to know them personally; hearing about their dreams and their goals as I wish them the very best in what they do. People often tell me that they look up to me like a superhero and I'm glad that I have such a profound effect on people as my deck personifies my characteristics to a tee." Jaden yawned as he softly let go of the emotional redhead and leaned back into the sunbed and got comfortable once more. Pulling his sunglasses off his head and wearing them, he smiled to the two of them as he raised his fingers in a salute. "In a few, guys."
'Incredible. Simply incredible.' Bastion complimented as he kicked his feet up on the sunbed and closed his eyes, grabbing some sleep himself. Meanwhile, Jenny found herself wondering what to do now after the heavy conversation she just had with her idol. Feeling too restless to go back to sunbathing, she decided to go for a walk and walk off some of her emotional weight and find something to do for the next few hours before retiring for the night. Grabbing her towel and wrapping it around her waist, she made her way back to the cabins and made her way to check up on Syrus before going for a wander.
'Superhero, huh? That sounds about right. Then again, I've always dreamed of falling in love with a hero...' she thought to herself, giggling as she closed her eyes and let her feet guide her across the deck.
~ETK!~
(Time Skip: Ferry Deck)
He sighed as he ran a hand through his hair a few times before bringing his hand back down to the railing in front of him and leaned his arms against it, looking up at the clear starry sky that graced them now that the sun had set a few hours ago. He recalled everything he had spoken about earlier and, while it did resurface some of his darkest memories, he didn't hold anything against her because she was curious to know. He sadly smiled as he made a note to speak with her and ease her fears, turning his gaze back towards the stars.
"It's a beautiful night, isn't it?"
Jaden glanced behind him to find a duel spirit he hadn't spoken to in a small while, hovering just behind him with a soft and sad smile on her face. He simply closed his eyes and focused, not seeing but knowing the slight wisps of black that surrounded him before reaching out and touching her, feeling her body materialize from the touch. He felt his hand be taken softly into hers as she moved close to him and settled for simply giving him company for a small while.
"That it is." he smiled softly as he slowly wrapped his arm around her waist and brought her in for a side-hug. She smiled at the action as she moved closer and rested her head on his shoulder as they passed the time away star-gazing. "You feeling okay?" he asked her softly.
"I should ask you the same, Jaden." she responded worriedly, knowing and hearing the conversation that happened earlier and did her bit to empty the area for his privacy. "You usually turn sullen after speaking about your more traumatic aspects of your childhood." she sadly spoke, glancing up into a pair of dulled brown orbs. He looked back down and noted that her silver hair seemed a lot more tamer than the usual wild and bed-hair look she sports. He also noted she had foregone her usual outfit and made a bit of an effort by dressing in a form-fitting and alluring black silk dress that hugged her form and enhanced her natural curves, noting the small slit up the side of her left leg that showed that she had also foregone wearing any underwear.
"I'll need to find Jenny and tell her that I don't blame her for asking and making me bring it up. She asked a question and I had to explain a little bit to make her understand the viewpoint I needed her to see. While I'm a little emotional still... I'm doing better. Company also helps when they look just as beautiful as the stars we're gazing at." he smoothly complimented, earning a small smile in response and a small soft tinkling laugh.
"Still able to make little ol' me blush after all this time." she shook her head playfully before resting it back on his shoulder and wrapping her hand into his and placed it on her right hip. "I have a small surprise for you as well, Jaden." she commented cryptically, earning a raised eyebrow. She shook her silver hair before taking his hand and pulling him back towards the poolside deck, keeping her gaze on him the whole time and not breaking it.
~Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran~
Jaden's head tilted upwards, noting three of his male spirits and his sole dog spirit resting a little ways away with a speaker connected to a phone, playing the soft music. He shook his head as he laughed softly as he turned his head back to the smiling silverette beauty in front of him as the guitar intro played a few times. He smiled as he took her hands into his and started softly singing to her, making her heterochromian eyes shine slightly from the warmth of his words and the lull of his voice meaning every word he sang.
When your legs don't work like they used to before,
And I can't sweep you off of your feet.
Will your mouth still remember the taste of my love?
Will your eyes still smile from your cheeks?
Jaden smiled warmly as he took her hand and gently cupped her cheek, feeling a swell of emotion as she leaned into his touch and smiled wonderfully for him as her eyes showed nothing but love. He found his worried ebbing away as he enjoyed this moment with his longest-known duel spirit and decided that this would be a special night for her.
Darling, I will be loving you 'til we're seventy.
And baby, my heart could still fall as hard at twenty-three!
And I'm thinking 'bout how people fall in love in mysterious ways;
Maybe just the touch of a hand.
Oh me? I fall in love with you every single day!
And I just wanna tell you I am...
He closed the distance further as he wrapped his arms around her and rested them on the base of her back and pulled her closer to him, watching her eyes shine as she wrapped her arms around his neck in response as the two softly stared dancing in a small circle while swaying back and forth together.
So honey, now,
Take me into your loving arms,
Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars,
Place your head on my beating heart...
I'm thinking out loud;
Maybe we found love right where we are...
She shook her head and tried to will her tears back before she would burst out crying in his arms, smiling beatifically at him before she placed a finger on his lips with a small loving grin, revealing her slightly sharpened canines but not subtracting the beauty she exuded. Moving the hand back to join her matching partner around his neck, she softly closed her eyes and surprised both Jaden and onlookers alike when she started to sing.
When your hair's all but gone and your memory fades,
And the crowds don't remember your name.
When your hands don't play the strings the same way,
Oh baby, I know you will still love me the same.
'Cause baby, your soul can never grow old; it's evergreen!
And honey, your smile's forever in my mind and memory!
Jaden's eyes widened in awe as she had never heard her sing much growing up in all the time he had known her. What shocked him still was just how melodic and hypnotizing her voice truly was and just how much raw emotion was coming out of the usually-shy duel spirit in front of him but he gazed deep into her heterochromian eyes and noted that a soft blush was appearing on her foundation-covered skin and contrasted with the much paler look she had gone for this evening.
I'm thinking 'bout how people fall in love in mysterious ways;
Maybe it's all part of a plan?
I'll just keep on making the same mistakes,
Hoping that you'll understand...
But baby, now,
Take me into your loving arms,
Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars,
Place your head on my beating heart...
I'm thinking out loud;
That maybe we found love right where we are.
Jaden smiled warmly to his partner as he began lifting her up and spinning around before placing her back on her feet and dancing with each other for the instrumental part of the song, idly noting it had been looped so that the two of them could simply take this time and dance together. The two laughed freely and smiled warmly with one another as they both danced around the edge of the pool and glided over the wooden floors as they both danced bare-footed. Over where the other duel spirits sat down and watched the couple dance, the taller of the three smiled as he looked on at them.
"They act so distant on times but seeing them like this is something incredible, you know?" he rhetorically asked, sitting down on the deck as he softly scratched behind the sole dog's ears. The bigger of the three smiled as he crossed his legs while eating a baguette he bought from the cafeteria downstairs below deck.
"I hear ya, Jack. J-Man has always skirted the boards with Yubel because of her link to Haou. He still doesn't seem to realize she's feeling the same hesitance, y'know?" he followed up, taking another bite and quickly swallowing it. "Should both get over their hang-ups and enjoy this kind o' happiness."
"It's easier said than done, though." a new female voice spoke up as she walked up to the others with Trix, Ayumi and Kiyomi following just behind her. Her shaggy blonde hair was wrapped loosely into a ponytail and fell down over her shoulder and over the top of her white blouse. Choosing to sling her work jacket over her shoulder, she pushed a bang of hair out of the way of her hazel eyes and took in the scene of the dancing couple. "You gotta remember that both of them had experiences that's left them both vulnerable and stunted to be open about their emotions and are afraid on who they open up to. It'll take time but this is a step to gaining each other's trust and working through their issues and find that happiness." she smiled softly as she sat on the sunbed just next to everyone and settled for watching the dancing duo calm themselves down and move closer to one another again as they both started singing in a beautiful duet.
So baby, now,
Take me into your loving arms.
Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars,
Oh darling, place your head on my beating heart!
I'm thinking out loud;
That maybe we found love right where we are.
Oh baby we found love right where we are!
Baby, we found love right where we are~.
The two settled down as they both found themselves staring into each others eyes as she noted the shine had come back to his gorgeous eyes during the dance and she found herself smitten by them as her tongue slightly darted out and licked her lips. She felt so comfortable in his arms and the entire dance felt so smooth and so natural with him that it scared her... but also excited her. Jaden had lost himself in her mixed eyes and a warm smile appeared on his face when he watched her lick her lips while glancing towards them a few times. Understanding the cue, he pulled her closer and dipped his head and closed his lips around hers.
Her toes visibly curled as she arched her back backwards as she pushed herself into him as her eyes fluttered close to savour this kiss and this entire evening to memory. While kissing softly for a good few minutes, both knew not to deepen it further and softly pulled away and settled for gazing at one another. He couldn't stop the warm smile off his face that made Yubel blush a little more before cupping her cheek once more. They stayed like that before she reluctantly pulled away from him while keeping her hands in his.
"I need to go, sadly. But thank you for the most wonderful evening, Jaden. I shall cherish this memory and this first kiss of mine for the rest of my life." she smiled softly as she softly let go of his hands and faded back into her spirit form, watching her wings shimmer back into view. "I'll keep status on the island and the condition of the others but for now, just relax and rest easy, okay?" she requested softly as she smiled just as softly towards him. He nodded his head in confirmation, not needing to say anything more to her before she gave a small parting wave before fading from view. He let loose a shuddering breath, ridding himself of all the bad emotions and feelings within him and simply grinned broadly, feeling better than he had been for a while. Moving back to the other duel spirits, he decided to take an hour or two catching up with them all.
Unknown to him, Jennifer watched the dancing couple for the entirety of the song after she heard one of her favorite songs start playing from beside the pool area. She was awed by the visage of the two figures dancing with one another but it brought an honest smile to her face as she could see the love the two had for one another as they dance. She recognized it was one of his duel spirits by remembering the card he had shown them both earlier on. While a little put off that he had hidden something from them, she could understand the need for caution. Nevertheless, she watched him move over to the rest of his duel spirits and decided to turn in for the night and let him enjoy this wonderful moment.
~ETK!~
Having finally reached the Academy just after ten in the morning, everybody began opening their welcome packs and uniforms and read the information leaflets they had been given. The Academy was lenient to the possession of personal duel disks and had permitted anyone who had their own that they could use it instead of the Academy's version, something a lot of the students were happy about. The only stipulation was they would not be responsible or able to provide cover or replacement disks should theirs be stolen, broken or lost.
Much like the rest of the students, Jaden had began opening his box and pulled aside the leaflet and quickly skimmed through it before chucking it into his pocket. He quickly pulled the sheeting off and looked to see what rank he had earned for the rest of the semester and much to his shock and confusion, he lifted the red blazer up from the box and stared blankly at it. Five minutes had passed since having opened his uniform pack as Jaden sat down on the chair in disbelief after chucking the blazer roughly back into the box...
... he was in Slifer Red.
"Fucking Crowler!" he growled angrily as he snatched the box and roughly closed the flaps on it and carried it with him as he followed the signs towards the Chancellor's office, wanting to rectify this issue. "I'm not having this! I'm gonna see Sheppard and talk about this in person!" he nodded to himself, having been notified to speak with him if there were any issues or concerns he may have.
~ETK!~
Jack Sheppard was currently sitting behind his large, mahogany desk as he continued to work through the never-ending piles of paperwork that swamped his desk. Sure, he knew that it came with the job but a majority of the paperwork were senseless garbage that had nothing to do with him or the Academy and just so happened to be dumped on his desk! He silently wished for a momentary reprieve from everything... smiling when he heard a knock on the door.
"Come in!" he yelled, happy to whoever granted him the distraction. He had been notified from Kaiba that they would be receiving a special applicant from the Pro-Circuit and he was pleasantly surprised when Kaiba had offered to pay for his tuition and cover any and all costs that may occur. "Ah, Jaden Yuki! What a pleasure it is to meet you in person!" Sheppard beamed as he rose up from his desk and offered his hand to the young duelist.
"Likewise, Chancellor. Thank you for having me, I'm happy to be here." Jaden smiled as he shook hands. Sheppard chuckled heartily from the response and broke off the firm shake as he glanced behind him to check how far from the desk he was.
"Now as grateful as I am for your visit, what can I help you with?" he asked as he leaned against the desk, crossing his arms over his chest. He frowned when he noted the introductory pack in his hands and that it had already been opened. Placing the box on the floor and pulling the blazer out, Jaden began explaining the situation.
"I don't wish to sound ungrateful but could you tell me something, Chancellor?" he asked, changing his face to a serious one. "If I wanted to be in Ra Yellow, what was the minimum mark I needed on my written exam to safely pass the threshold?"
Sheppard nodded in understanding as he caught on to why the Elemental King was standing in his office, not looking too pleased. "The minimum mark required was eight-five percent. I believe you scored eighty-nine, correct?"
"Yes. Also, in my duel against Crowler, did I not defeat him using his own deck?" Jaden probed a bit further, earning a small frown from Jack as he began suspecting foul play at hand here.
"You did, which should never have happened in the first place because there would have been an examiner assigned to you that would specifically use a basic deck that would prove a challenge to you and would slightly counter your deck abilities, hence why we ask what kind of deck you use on the application form." he explained, earning a slightly-awed look before Jaden schooled his features back into his serious look.
"Did I take a single hit during the entire duel?"
"No... if anything, you almost doubled the starting amount of life points you had form that ingenious trap-combo of yours." Sheppard frowned further as he was given the red blazer, confused as to why Jaden had been given one.
"Then can you please explain to me, why I've been placed in Slifer Red?" Jaden impatiently asked but not wanting to come across as rude to someone who had no idea this happened. "I have easily proven that I'm more than qualified to be in Ra Yellow but I'm assuming that Crowler had a hand in the placements and simply wanted to make me suffer for embarrassing him in the duel." he sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose in disbelief. "I don't want to sound ungrateful, I really don't, but I will not stand here and let him make a fool out of me." he swore with a steel edge in his voice.
"And so you shouldn't." Jack nodded in agreement as he took another look at the red blazer currently held in his hands. "Jaden, I'll agree with you; I'm confused and also curious to know why you were placed in the Slifer dorm when I was handed the rankings from Crowler. From your explanation however, it makes sense and provides a motive as to why he would do such a thing." he hummed thoughtfully. "Unfortunately, even if I were to promote you to Ra Yellow right now, I'm afraid I don't have a uniform for you until a month's time." he apologized sincerely, handing the jacket back.
"Oh? That's no problem, Chancellor! I can easily get around that one!" Jaden grinned cheekily, earning another curious stare before Jaden's face turned serious once more. "As I'm here, I have been advised to tell you that something is going on around the island and that there are some dark dealing going on. There's vague but scattered presences that have been cloaked in darkness and they're making their move for something... probably the three Sacred Beasts we're currently standing on." Jaden warned as he watched the elder's eyes widen.
"H-How do you know all this?" Sheppard asked, stunned by being found out before narrowing his eyes dangerously. This was the main reason as to why the Duel Academy was built on this island and why it was the most isolated and guarded of all five branches. For Jaden to have gotten the knowledge on a top-classified piece of information, celebrity or not, was a security risk.
"I would have thought that Kaiba would have notified you of this and that I have a part to play in all this." he murmured to himself, cursing the tycoon's absent-mindedness. "Do you know the legend of the Supreme King?" he asked, sighing tiredly.
"Vaguely... but I understand the basic facts to know about the cards and their link to him." Sheppard replied, not easing up his guarded stance. Jaden smiled as it was one less thing to explain. Clicking his fingers, his card of Yubel appeared in his hands and handed it over to Jack to inspect, hoping it would explain the situation.
"I have the soul of the Supreme King within me and have so since I was born. Not exactly a reincarnation but more of an alter-persona that resides in me." he quickly explained, halting the question on Jack's lips before it even formed. "I've been trained in using his powers, so I can sense the presences and their energy. I know something will happen soon and it will put the Academy and its students and staff at great risk and I want to be there when it does. I have the best chance of defeating whoever's going around causing this mess and I assure you that this will be dealt with." Jaden requested, bowing respectfully. Sheppard simply settled for giving the card back, believing the words from that piece of evidence alone.
"O-Of course! I thank you for bringing that news to light, Jaden. I'm glad to know that our school is in capable hands." Sheppard smiled thankfully, returning the bow. "Very well, I hereby promote you to Ra Yellow; effective immediately, and I'll update the system to let them know that you are. Now, I'll be giving the introductory speech in ten minutes. Make your way down and I'll get in touch if I need your assistance." Sheppard smiled, offering his hand.
"Of course, sir. Anything to help." Jaden beamed with delight as he shook hands once more. "See ya later!" he yelled as he ran out of the office, leaving Jack alone to his thoughts as the doors closed behind the local celebrity.
'I see things will get chaotic within the next few months... however, I never expected the King's host to be one of my students. I believe that he may just be the thing this school needs.' Sheppard smiled to himself as he resumed working, not even complaining how it seemed the pile of papers multiplied during the conversation...
Not much, anyways...
~ETK!~
It was roughly around one in the afternoon when the speakers alerted the students about the Chancellor's introductory speech and that every was required to be present; so we find everyone making their way towards one of the bigger classrooms, which reminded Jaden of one of the universities he once dueled in a long time ago. The first-year students all converged into a collected group around the space between the first row of seats and the desk which the lecturer would take up for lessons. Jaden calmly and slightly smugly walked in as he noticed Crowler looking around the students, eyes scanning for particular people.
'No doubt for me. Oh, the look when he finds out I'm in Ra Yellow instead of Slifer Red would be priceless! Of course, there's nothing wrong with the colour red...' he thought to himself, getting a giggle in response from his Burstinatrix. After being given the promotion, Jaden quickly darted into one of the vacant classrooms and quickly used what little power he had over the darkness to manifest a yellow blazer, similar to that of the red one he held before promptly chucking it away. Erring to caution on his first day, he decided on sticking with the usual uniform he saw from several Ra students; underneath the yellow blazer was a visible plain white t-shirt which showed a little bit of his frame, followed off by a pair of faded blue jeans and white trainers.
He remembered a few months back when Yubel taught him the ability of creating a 'pocket dimension' to store almost all his possessions in and access it when he needed it. She explained that it was much easier than carrying luggage around and that he could access it with a click of his fingers and a small trace of dark energy. Being greatly impressed and thankful for the little trick he wanted to repay the act... and she made sure he made it up to her.
Who'd have thought Yubel liked Musicals?
To each their own, he thought.
With his personal duel disk fixed to his hip, Jaden expertly maneuvered his way over to a little clearing in the crowd near the back. He glanced over the crowd just catching the sight of both Jenny and Bastion (no doubt Syrus being there as well) talking with one another about something. She seemed to be really into the conversation if her movement were any indication but the redhead managed to catch him out of the corner of her eye and smiled brightly as she beckoned him over; an invitation he didn't refuse.
"Jay! You're in Ra Yellow as well!?" she asked, beaming with delight at the sight of her idol wearing the same colours as she did. After making a heroic recovery from everything that transpired yesterday involving the brunette, she smiled warmly as she could feel him being in better spirits, idly noting that his smiles reached his eyes this time. Thankful that he wasn't mad at her when he gave her a huge grin back, she could let go of her worry and be her bubbly self.
Jenny winked as she spun around on the spot, showing off the female equivalent of the uniform to Jaden; a sleeveless white blazer jacket fitted with yellow trims, a matching yellow mini-skirt (with black gym shorts underneath) and a pair of black leather boots that reached just under half way up her calves. Unlike the majority of the girls who had their jackets done up, hers was unzipped; revealing to him the black tube top that finished off near her midriff, showing off her belly button. She was also showing off a small amount of cleavage; just enough to sate the imagination without revealing too much. Her hair was tied up in the usual ponytail but was tied back with a white ribbon with two red poms at either end, instead of the usual bobble.
"There were some issues with the marking system and I asked the Chancellor to double-check. He agreed with me in thinking Crowler made a 'miscalculation' in the marking system but it was resolved shortly after meeting him. Chancellor Sheppard found this spare blazer for me and gave it to me after promoting me to Ra, there and then." Jaden explained as Bastion and Syrus caught up with her. Bastion smiled and nodded his head as he ended up in the Ra Dorm as well but Syrus?
"Awww, I'll be on my own in Slifer! I'll never catch up to you guys..." Syrus pouted before blushing slightly when he felt his hair being ruffled by the sole female of their little group.
"Hey, Sy? Just cause we're in Ra Yellow doesn't mean we can't still hang out, right? Anyway, you've got a deck that Yugi, himself, help you build!" Jaden grinned playfully as he pointed his thumb to his chest and spread his legs apart slightly to give off a heroic-pose. "Believe in the me that believes in the cards that believes in you, right?"
"Never took you for an otaku, Jaden-kun!" Jenny grinned, playfully teasing him. Jaden shook his head as he pointed straight at her in response and gave her a challenging grin.
"Just who the hell do you think I am, Ryu-chan?" Jaden smirked in response, getting a tongue poke from the girl.
"Jaden no baka!" she giggled, stretching the vowels as Jaden shared in the small banter and walked up next to her.
"Row, Row, Fight da Power!" he replied, getting a high-five off the redhead as the wall in front of them flashed a white light before a figure appeared on the screen, revealing it to be the same person he spoke with not just ten minutes ago. Sporting a ritzy garnet-blazer with gold and silver trims, his entire look demanded and received respect. He didn't have a single lock of hair on his head but he did have an immaculately, neatly-trimmed grey goatee on his face which accompanied his dark grey eyes.
"Welcome, Elite Duelists!" Sheppard smiled. "My name is Chancellor Jack Sheppard, the Headmaster of the prestigious Duel Academy's Central Branch! You're all standing here today because each and every one of you have shown us that you have the talent and the skill to be considered worthy enough to enter these hallowed halls. As I'm aware that most of you are tired from the long journey, I'll keep this short." he playfully grinned, earning a few chuckles form the students and some grateful looks as well.
"You will all be studying here for a total of three years and you will cover a majority of subjects based on and off dueling. While mainly a Dueling School of sorts, we will still be focusing on your basic subjects such as Mathematics, Sciences, Languages, Physical Education and your technological skills in your I.T. classes. Either way, I truly hope that these three years will be fun, eye-opening and a massive boon to your dueling know-how when you graduate; in which some of you may even get into the professional dueling scene once you leave. if you show enough talent! While we will be demanding in studies and assignments, please understand that we will only accept people with drive and ambition; whether you already know or whether these three years will provide you with the answers to your questions in terms of career choices. Either way, I hope you'll all study hard and remember to play harder!" he grinned, earning a loud cheer and a round of applause from the inspired students. Jaden had to give props to Jack; he knew what he was doing and how to bring out the very best in people, if the fair percentage of the crowd brightening up from his words were any indication.
"Wow, that was short." Jenny giggled playfully.
"Now, it has already been brought to my attention that there were a few errors when it came to your rank placements. As one example, our very own campus celebrity, Jaden Yuki has already confronted me about the matter and has officially been promoted from Slifer Red to Ra Yellow as of ten minutes ago. However, I had forgot to mention that you will need to find accommodation to accompany this change, Jaden." he spoke up, addressing the new Ra student. Crowler had snapped his head towards the person in question as he saw the Yuki prodigy in a yellow blazer, instead of red. His eyes narrowed dangerously as his first means of embarrassing him had already failed.
"No problem, Chancellor. I believe I may have a few options already I can discuss. I shall let you know the details as it proceeds." Jaden saluted with his index and middle fingers, earning a nod from Jack.
"That's good to hear. Now, if you believe that there is something off about your final mark, please let me know and I'll try to resolve the matter. If you are promoted, then I apologize in advance that we do not have any spare uniforms at the moment so you will be exempt from wearing uniform until the next shipment comes in; but please try and dress appropriately when not in uniform. Now, you are all dismissed to find your dorm rooms. I hope you find them quite comfortable... depending on your rank, of course!" Sheppard chuckled as the connection cut off. That was the cue as many of the students moved into action and began making their own way to their dorms.
"Soooo..." Jenny trailed off, turning towards him and earning his attention. "Need a place to bunk?" she asked, hopefully. Jaden's eyes widened in shock, alongside the other two males, at the sudden declaration and offer on a guy sharing a dorm with a female student.
"Kinda. But are you sure you'll be alright with me sharing a room with you with the gender policies and everything? I could always bunk with Bastion for the time being..." Jaden trailed off, scratching the back of his head in embarrassment. Jenny was touched by his concern but she decided to be brave and shook her head in the negative.
"I'd be fine with it." she smiled warmly, trying to persuade him. Jaden still didn't look convinced with the glaringly obvious reason that he was a guy and she was a girl, both of whom are sharing a room together.
"Uh... are you sure it's alright for you to share a room with a boy you just met yesterday? My fame besides, I'm still a complete stranger in terms of wanting to share a room with someone. Plus I doubt the faculty would approve of a boy bunking with a female student in her own dorm without kicking up a storm..." he explained, not wanting to send the wrong signals or jeopardize their stay here on the first day of arriving. She sighed before moving into his personal space and pressed her body against his as she leaned up on her tiptoes and stared straight into his eyes for a few minutes before the smile reappeared.
"Jay, you've told me more than most people know. Believe me when I say that I won't betray your trust in me, any time soon. Plus you've just shown me the concern you have about this and I will take full responsibility as it is my suggestion. I know you won't take advantage Jaden; your eyes tell me that much" she replied sagely, shocking him on just how much she got from looking into his eyes. "C'mon. Let's make our way, shall we?" she smiled as she pulled him away by his arm. Bastion and Syrus just stood there from the interaction, baffled.
"She likes him, doesn't she?" Syrus asked with all the subtlety of a sledgehammer.
"Probably the likeliest case." Bastion replied, shaking his head. "I'll see you later, Syrus." he smiled as he followed the rowdy pair towards the Ra Dorm, wondering what these next three years will have in store for them all.
~ETK!~
(Time Skip: Ra Yellow Student Dorms)
Jaden whistled in awe as the three of them found themselves standing in front of the Ra Yellow Dorm. While nothing overly extravagant, it held its own little charm; the closest of the three dorms to the main Academy building, a large seating area just behind the dorm itself and a small volleyball net a little further down. Much to fit the theme, the dorm exterior walls were painted in an egg-coloured yellow, accompanied by a dark blue-turn-green rooftop. The main feature of this was the view that the students could enjoy from the second floor balcony; overlooking the cliff it was situated near and spend their time gazing over the ocean and watch the sunrise shold they find themselves up at that time of the morning. Jaden noted this and was thankful for that little tidbit as he knew it would help him immensely during his sleepless nights.
"What an incredible view!" Bastion complimented as he walked up to the grounded fencing that skirted the edge of the cliff, stopping careless students from falling over to an untimely and gruesome death. Jaden nodded silenty, taken in by the view of the sun reflecting off the sea and watched as the waters sparkled like a freshly-cut sapphire gem.
"Yeah, it's awesome!" Jenny replied softly, smiling in delight as the three of them made their way inside the dorm with their luggage. Travelling down the maze-like halls, they soon found the place they were looking for as they stumbled across Bastion's assigned room. Much to their surprise, Jenny had been given the room next door, right at the end of the corridor.
"That's unusual. Usually they would split the boys' and girls' dorms in separate sections of the building. I wonder why you had been given the room right next to mine?" Bastion commented, finding the turn of events unusual but not unwelcome. Jenny shrugged in response as she wasn't sure herself.
"Maybe they ran out of rooms in the girls' dorms and this was the only available place left for me to stay at? I mean, it's right at the end of the corridor so no-one apart from you or Jaden would have any need to come down this far in the corridor. But knowing the typical boy behaviour, I'll be keeping an eye out for any... unwelcome advances." she smirked dangerously, causing the two males to shiver in response. She laughed as she pulled Jaden's hand and opened the door to her... their new living arrangements.
The first moment she laid her eyes on the room, she smiled at the large space she got: completely bare except for a small-sized double bed, a bedside cabinet, a study desk and a wardrobe; all made from a polished and smoothed Scandinavian Pinewood. Even the smell of the room made her smile brightly as it reminded her of the smell of fresh cotton and the fresh crisp air that traveled through the open windows; letting the soft breeze ruffle against the crisp and clean white curtains that were padded thick enough to prevent snoopers to look in on her. She took the fabric into her hand and cast another sweeping gaze over the room before sighing in contentment, loving her new room.
"Think this will be enough for the two of us?" she asked, turning to her room mate. Jaden went over everything and nodded with a smile on his face, admiring the look and feel of the room. It had a nice energy and he felt relaxed here, something he didn't know whether to the feel of the room itself or the company within.
"It'll have to be, won't it?" he replied playfully with a grin on his face. "It's a good amount of space, though. We can make this work, for sure." he smiled a bit more sincerely as he walked into the middle of the room and nodded. "Just need to do a few things..." Jaden commented with a playful glint in his eyes as he clicked his fingers. To her continued shock, a small miasma appeared in front of his fingers before spreading out into a black and purple portal. Jaden turned and grinned when he saw his new roommate look at him in stunned wonder before he playfully reached over and shut her mouth with his hand. "You'll catch flies."
She shook her head, bringing her out of her dazed state before watching his arm disappear into the portal, giddy and expectant on what will happen next. He poked his tongue out as he reached a little further into the portal, going so far as shoulder deep, before he found what he was looking for and smiled with a successful cry. She watched his other arm disappear into the portal as the portal widened a considerable amount before finding a white object being pulled out of it; his king-sized mattress with a clean white sheet already fitted on it. She couldn't hold it in and burst out laughing at the sight that reminded her of an anime in which this would happen and watched on as he reached back in and pulled out two thickened pairs (so eight pillows in four separate pillows) of black and white pillows and a large king-size quilt before chucking them haphazardly on top of her bed.
He reached back into his pocket dimension and pulled out four large black sports bags, which he dumped next to the wardrobe before moving his arms back in the portal. She pointed towards the bags, silently asking for permission to check what they were, earning a small nod from Jaden before he turned his attention back to his searching. Slightly opening the first bag's main zip, she noted it was full of his shirts and t-shirts; telling her the other bags must've held more of his own clothes and had all been arranged and packed neatly. His chuckling brought her attention back to him as he pulled out two large metallic briefcases and set them down on his left side before looking back into the portal for a few more seconds before nodding, snapping his fingers once more and watched the portal dissolve into black wisps of smoke that soon cleared up.
"A small portion of energy, hmm?" she asked playfully as she leaned into his face. "Does that also come under the quota of allowing a duel spirit a physical form long enough for a slow dance under the stars to a romantic song, hmmm?" she grinned a shit-eating smile as Jaden sighed in defeat.
"Alright. D'you remember yesterday when Bastion asked if I was the reincarnation of the Supreme King?" he asked, earning a nod in response. "The truth is that I'm not his reincarnation... but I do host his soul inside my body." he confessed. Her eyes widened as she swallowed that piece of information. "So while I'm not him and he's not me; we have an agreement that we both share this body equally. There are pros and cons but the former usually outweighs the latter." he explained, earning an understanding nod while Jaden looked a little guilty for lying to them both. She noted this and smiled before placing her finger on his lips.
"I understand why you didn't say and I would've kept the secret a little longer as well. Just know that doesn't change my view on you, except for the better, and that your secret is safe with me. I just hope you take into consideration telling Bastion as well. He has earned your trust enough to keep that a secret for you." she gently coaxed, earning a nod from him as she had a point. "So I take it that's one of the neat tricks you learned from Yubel?" she grinned.
"Yeah." he smiled, admiring the spirit and the personality of the girl in front of him for accepting him so quickly and openly. It was scary, he would admit; finding someone you just recently met and having a few major secrets revealed and accept them like accepting the fact that the sun was yellow and skies were blue. "I remember the conversation we had about how stupid and petty it would be taking my sleeping equipment with me but I had the last laugh!" he grinned as he made his way towards the mattress and pushed it into the corner adjacent to the bottom of the bed. Chucking the pillows roughly into the corner, she noted he took care in spreading the quilt. "By the way, you can have the wardrobe. It's your room, after all, and I'm fine with storing my clothes in my bags and just ironing them when I want to wear them. As you can see, I've finished making my bed."
"Thank you, I appreciate that." she smiled fondly as she remembered the metal cases. "So what's in the cases altogether, Jay?"
"That would be two of the many briefcases of spare cards I've received over the years from my benefactor and my sponsor. I have a couple of decks I don't usually use but most of the cards are either duplicates or cards I just don't feel like using but keep anyway because of who they're from." he explained as he watched her bring them both over before placing them in front of him, allowing her to take a seat on his mattress. She reached past him and grabbed one of his pillows and held it tightly against her body before her eyes widened yet again. "Oh my gosh, these are so soft! Where'd you get these?" she asked as she experimentally squeezed it for a few moments.
"Again, my sponsor and benefactor." Jaden grinned, chuckling at her fawning over a pair of soft pillows. "I got them from Pegasus who ordered them for me a year ago. Said it was a birthday present, or something. Can't complain, though." he replied as he grabbed the two suitcases. "Could I see your deck, for a minute?" he asked, wanting to do something small for her as a silent thanks for making him feel so comfortable around her. She turned to face him but her gaze softened when she saw a hint of thankfulness in his eyes and her smile softened while warming a little.
"Sure, Jaden." she replied as she reached into her jacket pocket and fanned her cards across the mattress in a professional show of skill. Jaden glanced over the deck and nodded as he punched in the codes for the briefcases before revealing two stacked cases full of cards. "That's a lot of cards..." she awed, impressed by the sheer amount of cards there were.
"I grew up in the shop in which belonged to the grandfather of Yugi Moto himself, and I'm sponsored by the man who makes the cards; what do you think?" he asked, winning a giggle from the girl. "I know that you're likely wanting to use your new Blue-Eyes' in your deck but at the moment, it'll throw the balance off a little as you'll more than likely make the mistake of over-focusing on the new cards and neglecting the cards you already have." he explained, earning a guilty look from the redhead across from him. "It's okay! What we can do is to try and add some more components to the deck that will add a small boost to the new cards but also having enough versatility to also work for the old deck as well." he smiled as the two of them began working on her deck, showing her what each card did and how it worked before rebuilding her deck from scratch.
"Jay?" she asked, halfway through building her deck up and taking notes of everything she's learning from the brunette across from her. "I don't mean to impose myself on you... but could show me a few things in dueling?" she poked her fingers together. "I'm okay but I bet there's something that I'm lacking..."
"You're not too far off, believe it or not." he commented quickly, earning her attention. "You need to realize there's no formula for crossing that level from an amateur to a professional; it's down to their flair and their ability to control a duel and not let themselves be controlled. Your style is what gives you that edge, plus believing in your deck and that it'll make an incredible move and help you out when you so desperately want it... then you'll soon discover that the deck and the spirits within are an extension of you, much like your arm." he smiled as he repeated the same words Yugi had said to him many years ago. "But I can show you a few tricks and I'll help you out with your skills, for sure."
Her smile widened as her eyes turned slightly watery before she leaned over and hugged him sincerely before wiping her tears away. Now finding herself with the best roommate anyone could ask for, they resumed fine-tuning her deck ready for what may come her way.
~ETK!~
The two of them had spent the past hour and half working on Jenny's deck before they both agreed that they needed some air and familiarize themselves with their new surroundings. She was more was more than satisfied with the new cards she received from Jaden and she had discovered the potential combos she can play with and worked out some impressive combos that even he admitted were incredible. She promised him that she would repay the favor somehow and adamantly insisted that she should despite his protests and his chivalry. Jaden, not wanting an argument with a woman after experiencing those with his duel spirits, simply accepted it and let the matter drop... much to her delight.
The two had changed into their casual clothes for the evening and decided to walk about together. They had asked Bastion if he wanted to come along but he respectfully declined as he was working on a project idea he had on the ferry over here. Leaving him to his project, the two continued on their way and decided to make small chat with one another while examining the map of the campus for noteworthy places. While reading the map, the pair stumbled across a hall which was clearly used for duels, if the holographic platform was something to go by. The Ra pair let their curiosity get the better of them as they walked further in and examined the area.
"Wow! Not bad, huh?" she asked him as she leaped up the stairs and spun around a few times as she took in the sight from the stage. "Is this what it's like to be in the Pro-Circuit? Standing in the spotlight, dueling in front of thousands of fans and putting on a show for them all while trying your best to win against other skilled duelists?" she asked honestly.
"The Pro-Circuit, huh?" he repeated, sliding his hands into his pockets as he moved towards her and smiled at the question. "It's a lot of fun and you get a real thrill out of dueling in front of thousand of aspiring fans and duelists alike but it can be a bit demanding on times; performing well, winning duels and making it far in tournaments all for the sake of publicity and promoting your sponsors. Of course, it depends what kind of sponsor you have backing you up and what benefits you get from them in return for what you can give them, ya know? I know some top-end duelists who has a sponsorship with Seto Kaiba, so he provides them with the latest technology and custom duel-disk designs that can't be found in shops or before they're even released. So if you win with one of them on your arm, they'll want one. With Pegasus? You get a steady stream of cards and, if you're good enough, he'll create new cards for you to enhance your deck and often give you exclusive and limited-edition cards for a job well done. It's a give and take sort of thing." Jaden explained, giving his experiences and knowledge on the circuit to his companion.
"That's amazing! I really envy you, Jay; being successful in dueling, having everything you want after what you've been through... it must feel so nice." she replied, taking on a sad smile.
"Not really." he replied, shocking her as he looked up distantly into the stands. "Yeah, it's good and all but there's things you can't duel for or simply buy with money. The best things you gotta be patient for. Growing up as an orphan, I've always grew up with a sense of loneliness because I never had any family members or anyone related. I had a brother figure but we separated after I was kicked out of the orphanage I stayed in and he headed somewhere else to pursue his dream in dueling as well." he sadly smiled as he stared at her and looked into her shimmering amber orbs. "To be honest, if it wasn't for my ability to interact with my spirits? I would have gone insane by now and I likely wouldn't be here right now..." he sadly explained, earning a stunned silence from Jen as she clicked on to what he meant.
"If there's anything I really wanted? It would be someone who could look past my fame and fortune. Someone who can take the burden of knowing my darkest secrets. Someone I can open up my weaknesses to and find someone who accepts me for who I am, flaws and all. I want to find someone who sees me, not the Elemental King, not the Supreme King... just as plain ol' Jaden Hoshiryu Yuki, a guy who loves dueling and wants to experience the wonders of what each day will bring me." he professed.
"That sounds like a wonderful dream, Jay." she smiled tenderly before her eyes widened slightly. "Wait a sec... your middle name is 'Star Dragon'?" she grinned, earning a groan from him before bursting out laughing at him. "That's adorable!" she giggled as he continued to pout.
"Awww, look at the lovebirds! Isn't it romantic?" a new voice spoke up, laced with sarcasm. It had the intended effect as both Ra students span around to the new voice and turned serious as the two pulled away from each other, turning out to be the boy with the glasses that was with Chazz back in the entrance duel examinations. Footsteps could be heard as another person approached on their positon.
"Whatever. Like I care what these 'Ra-Rejects' do in their own time. All I care about is that they take their sob stories and scram! This is the Obelisk Dueling Arena and you're not welcome here!" another voice spoke up, revealing the ravenette himself as he looked at them like they were beneath him. Jaden's eye narrowed as he remembered who the ravenette was and stepped forward.
"So you're Chazz Princeton?" Jaden asked disdainfully.
"What's it to you, you Reject?" he snapped back, smirking.
"Nothing, really. Just curious as to how far that stick is in your ass?" he commented, leaning around slightly as if he was searching for said stick. Chazz fumed in response as he growled at the audacity of this kid making a mockery out of him. "And 'Ra-Reject'? Is that honestly the best insult you can come up right now; you officious, obstinate and obnoxious Obelisk?" he replied, getting a snicker from the girl with him as she knew what each word meant.
"W-Who the fuck do you think you are, talking to me like that!?" he snapped, rage etched into his face as me took harsh steps towards Jaden. Apparently Chazz did too, if the response was a give-away as he got up in Jaden's face and stared him down like an insignificant piece of trash.
"Me? Oh, I'm Jaden Yuki. I'm the kid who destroyed Crowler two days ago, remember? Surely you know! Doctor in Dueling Techniques? Head of the Obelisk Boys' Dorm? Ring a bell?" he taunted, smirking as a little bit of his sarcastic side came loose as Chazz's face grew darker before his eyes snapped widen in recognition.
"C-Chazz! That's him! He's the Elemental King!" his accomplice pointed out, stunning the ravenette a tad too late as he took a few hurried steps back from Jaden and pointed straight at him with a paling face and dilated pupils.
"That's you!?" Chazz asked. 'Shit! I've just insulted him and called him a reject! There's no way I can stand up to a pro duelist like him! Taking Crowler out with six cards was no joke; he knew what he was doing from the get-go!' he thought. Jaden could see the hesitation from both the Obelisk students so he crossed his arms and stared at them both.
"That's me. Now, what do you want from us?" Jaden asked as Jenny moved closer to him in reaction, not wanting to get involved anymore. Apparently Chazz managed to find his second wind as he coughed into his hands before his snobbish attitude returned as he waved dismissively at him as he closed his eyes.
"Heh, I just wanted to see if you live up to your name... or if you're just a reject who's a wannabe duelist. How about you put your money where your mouth is and show me how you duel?" Chazz taunted, excited at the idea of dueling a pro and seeing how he fares up against one. Unfortunately, a certain author had other arrangements...
"What's going on here?" a familiar feminine voice called out as another pair of Obelisk students made their way towards them. Jaden turned his head and spotted the two students that had watched his duel from one of the upper balconies and relaxed slightly.
"Hey Alexis!" Chazz smiled 'charmingly' at the blonde. "I was just asking these two to leave here but he insisted that he'd want to duel me." he commented, smirking at her. "You come here to watch me wipe the floor with this loser?" he waggled his eyebrows before receiving a punch to the face that sent him to the ground with no effort. She walked past him and her eyes landed on the brunette as she walked up to him and stopped just in front of him with a smirk on her face and a hand on her hip.
"Whatever, Chazz." she dismissed casually, turning her attention back to Jaden. "So you're the Elemental King, hmm? I must say it's an honour to meet you in person, Jaden. Alexis Rhodes." she introduced herself as she extended her hand. He smiled as he found out not all Obelisk students were born without manners. He took her hand and noted she had a good firm grip on her.
"Pleasure's all mine, Alexis. Nice grip by the way!" he grinned, earning an amused shake of the head from the blonde. "So, who's your friend? I saw him watching the duel but he left before introductions." he asked, shocking him as he didn't think he'd be caught watching the duel.
"Zane Truesdale. I'm a fan, of sorts." he complimented, smiling slightly. Both Jaden and Jenny looked towards one another before turning back to him.
"Truesdale? You related to Syrus in anyway?" Jaden asked in response, silently accepting the compliment prior to the question.
"I'm his older brother." Zane commented, nodding. "I've been told he's been given a new deck of Spellcasters from a friend of yours. He's going as far as claiming that it was Yugi Moto, himself, who helped build his deck from scratch based on some packs he received from him." he continued, skeptical about the story.
"Yep, he has. He pulled out some Dark Magician and Dark Magician Girls out of the packs he had gotten, alongside some more noteworthy Spellcasters which Yugi uses in his deck. So he sat him down and they built a deck from scratch." Jaden confirmed, Jenny nodding as she moved from behind Jaden and stood beside him.
"H-He wasn't lying?" Zane recoiled slightly, shocked that his younger brother got to meet the 'King of Games' himself!
"Nope. He begged me for a photo with me and Yugi." Jaden chuckled as he pulled out his phone and searched through his photo album before flipping it around for both Alexis and Zane to see; confirming his story as they both looked at the group photo of the nine of them. Alexis regained her bearings first as she shook her head.
"Sorry to break up the conversation fellas-" she started before a cough directed her attention to the other female present, earning a slightly sheepish look from Alexis. "-and ladies... but I take it Chazz didn't tell you that dueling past curfew is a serious offence and is punishable? Not a good record to have on your first day here, hmm?" Alexis asked, crossing her arms under her impressive bust. Jenny lowered her gaze to her own as she pouted slightly, jealous of the size and bounce of the Obelisk's chest.
"Nope, no-one told me a thing. Me and Jenny were taking a stroll to familiarize ourselves with the school grounds and the facilities here when these two clowns just appeared and interrupted us. Chazz began bad-mouthing me and challenged me to a duel." Jaden explained as Chazz began to look sheepish under her glare.
"Oh, he did, did he?" Alexis commented with a devilish grin on her face. "Well... if he's offering a challenge; I suggest you duel, Jaden." she hinted, excited to see him in action once more and a bit more up-close than the first time around. "I'll authorize this duel so you won't get into any trouble and I'll report it to Chancellor Sheppard in the morning." she winked playfully as she moved to the side of the stage while everyone gave the two opponents room in prep for the duel. Zane shook hsi head as he stepped on a switch, activating the field as it flared to life.
"You know, that's not such a bad idea." he commented, grinning back at her. "I may as well show him that my seventy-eight official wins weren't just for show. You ready to play with the big boys, Chazzy-chan?" he taunted, getting the response he wanted as he growled darkly once more at the brunette.
"You're gonna pay for that, bastard!" Chazz snapped back as they both placed their decks in their disks. Alexis shook her head as she lifted her arm into the air and brought it down.
"Duel Commence!"
~Chazz: 4000~
~Jaden: 4000~
"My move!" Chazz yelled, taking the first turn of the duel by drawing his first card from his deck. "I summon Chthonian Soldier in attack mode but don't worry! He won't be on his own for very long as I play my spell card, Chthonian Rally Cry. I can send two cards to my graveyard to special summon two more Chthonian Soldiers from my deck!" Chazz smirked as he discarded two cards from his hand, activating the in-built card scanner in the duel disk; pushing out the two cards he needed. Taking said cards, he placed all three copies down and watched as all three copies of the same monster appeared in front of Chazz, blocking his face from view.
(Chthonian Soldier: Warrior / Effect / Dark / 4* / 1200 ATK / 1400 DEF) (x3)
"Next, I play Chthonian Alliance! I can choose one of my monsters and they gain a bonus eight-hundred points for every copy of it on the field, itself included!" Chazz sneered as he slid one card face down, watching it materialize on the field. "I play a face down and end my turn. Your move, slacker!" he taunted as Jaden rolled his eyes.
(Chthonian Soldier: Attack Boost: 1200 + (800 x 3) = 3600)
"My draw!" Jaden yelled as he pulled his first card and glanced down at all the cards in his hands before smiling. Double-checking to make sure he wasn't missing anything, he chuckled as he looked over his shoulder and sought out the redhead behind him, lifting a finger into the air. "One." he grinned. Her eyes widened in shock as she was about to witness a rarity in the dueling world...
"An OTK!? No way!" Jenny yelled, hopping on her feet in delight as she readied herself to commit this to memory.
"An OTK? What's that?" Alexis asked from the sidelines, confused to the terminology. She turned to face Zane but was surprised to find his eyes had widened slightly before an excited smirk appeared on his face. He glanced over at Alexis and chuckled lowly.
"It means a One-Turn Kill. Basically? It means that if Jaden's right about this and that nothing stops any of his following moves... it means that Jaden has won the duel on his first go." Zane explained, curious as to what Jaden's about to do. Alexis' eyes widened as her head snapped back to the duel, secretly wanting to see if Jaden could humiliate Chazz with beating him in a single turn. Allowing a grin to appear on her face, she crossed her arms and waited for the killer combo.
"Y-You're lying! You can't possibly beat me!" Chazz stammered, paling a little. Jaden smirked devilishly in response as he rubbed his nose with his thumb, a small cocky tick he picked up from a certain Brooklyn-based duelist.
"Oh I can, and I will!" Jaden replied confidently. "First off, I play a face down. Next, I'll use my spell card: Polymerization! I'm going to fuse my Elemental Heroes Sparkman and Wildheart to create one of my lesser known fusions: my Elemental Hero Gaia!" Jaden grinned as the two duel spirits appeared behind him. They both bumped fists before they flew into the swirling vortex that appeared above them both. A few seconds passed before a bulking metallic figure burst out and landed in front of Jaden protectively: a gargantuan mechanized soldier that was covered in a thick pearlescent-painted black and silver armour, decorated with red spherical jewels that acted as the power source for the suit and for the menacing energy blasters that had been grated into the gauntlets.
(Elemental Hero Gaia: Warrior / Fusion / Effect / Earth / 6* / 2200 ATK / 2600 DEF)
"Ha! That's your big move? Your pathetic card is still weaker than my monster!" Chazz laughed cruelly, assuming that Jaden was all for show. Jaden chuckled in response, snapping Chazz out of his laughter.
"Not yet, no. Y'see, thanks to his effect, I can choose one of your monsters and half it's attack. The awesome bit? I take the difference and I can add it onto my Gaia's. So thanks for the set-up and I'll take the middle of your three soldiers!" Jaden pointed as Gaia jumped over to his target and placed his hand on the monster's head, absorbing it's energy as Chazz's monster grew thinner as the seconds went by, while the red lights on Gaia's armour grew more brightly.
(Chthonian Soldier: Attack Penalty: 3600 / 2 = 1800)
(Elemental Hero Gaia: Attack Boost; 2200 + 1800 = 4000)
"Now to finish this off? I'll activate a nice little addition to my deck; my Trailblazing Hero spell card! As my Gaia is a level six monster, I have to pay eighteen-hundred life points... but I get a sweet effect in return! Gaia, attack and end this thing!" Jaden smiled as he swiped his hand as the signal to attack.
~Jaden: (4000 - 1800) = 2200~
Trailblazing Hero: Pay 300 LP per Level of chosen 'Elemental Hero' Card.
"You idiot! Even if you destroy my Soldiers, you take all the damage instead of me!" Chazz laughed manically. "Guess your title was all for show!"
"I know about your soldier's card effect, Chazz. You see, I was a little bit naughty not fully explaining what my spell card does." Jaden smirked, earning everyone's attention. "You see, I can choose a monster card with the name 'Elemental Hero' in their name. I have to pay three-hundred life points per level of the card I've chosen... but in return, my Gaia can attack your life points directly! Now, attack with Giga Smash!" Jaden grinned as Gaia bumped his knuckles together, causing red sparks to surge over his armour before he smashed one of his metallic fists into the ground, causing the ground to split from the point of impact; everyone watching as wave of broken earth made its way underneath the three soldiers and straight towards Chazz.
"NOOOOOO!" Chazz yelled as he was blasted backwards from the attack, rolling across the stage several until he came to a stop, groaning in pain and humility.
~Chazz: (4000 - 4000) = 0~
Attack to Life Points directly from Elemental Hero Gaia.
"Just to add insult to injury? I play my face down spell card, Sebek's Blessing. All the damage you just got dealt is added to my life points." Jaden smirked as he bathed in a white glow as the visage of a crocodile sage hovered behind him, spinning his staff a few times before tapping it on Jaden's head.
~Jaden: (2200 + 4000) = 6200~
Sebek's Blessing: Gain Life Points equal to total damage dealt to your Opponent.
"And that is how we kick it in the Pro Leagues, Chump." Jaden commented as he made his way over to Jenny and the others, leaving his opponent deal with the loss in his own way as he strolled over to where Jenny and the others were, who stood there stunned at how fast he defeated the 'best' duelist in Obelisk. "So, what do you think?" he asked, scratching his head sheepishly, causing a small laugh to escape Alexis' lips before she looked at him with respect in her eyes.
"It was quick." Alexis grinned playfully. "That was a good move, Jay." she complimented as she shook his hand once more, smiling at him and receiving one in kind.
"Minimum effort..." Zane started, smiling at the brutality of play.
"... for maximum output, I know." Jaden smiled, shaking Zane's hand. "Welp! I think I've caused enough mischief for one day, so we'll be heading back. Catch you guys around?" Jaden asked as he and Jenny began making their way.
"Yeah. See you." Alexis nodded, smiling. Zane nodded as Jaden saluted with his index and middle fingers before walking away with his room mate. Alexis watched the retreating frames of the two Ra students as she got a good feeling about them; him especially. 'Just like Crowler but better; five cards and down! It's amazing how well his cards work for him as he draws what he wants. He'll definitely freshen things up, for sure.' she thought, smiling to herself.
"Come on, Alexis. Time we head back as well." Zane motioned as the two of them left a disheveled Chazz on the floor, not bothering to help him out as the two exited the dueling hall.
~ETK!~
(Time Skip: Ra Dorm Dining Hall)
It was nearly eight o'clock in the evening by the time Jaden and Jenny returned to the dorm, walking straight into a waiting Bastion who stood in the entrance hall with crossed arms and an impatiently tapping foot. He had asked the pair where they've been off to before having the entire replay of events from Jenny, much to the embarrassment of Jaden who decided to let her speak. After a light playful chiding, the three of them made their way into the dining area; where the food for the welcoming feast was being prepared. Soft chandeliers hung from the ceiling and coated the room in a soft and distinguished glow that gave a homely feel to the room; enchanting the various platters and dishes that was laid out before them all, tempting the students with their delicious aromas and making most of them drool in anticipation of the first delicious bite. Bastion was immensely looking forward to the meal, Jenny was trying to remain calm but her bouncing leg betrayed her calm visage...
Jaden?
"C'mon! Can we start already?" he whispered towards Jenny and Bastion. "I'm really hungry and I swear I heard the fried shrimp calling my name!" he added before he narrowed his eyes and looked behind him. "Unless Trix or Kiyomi is playing tricks on me again..." he narrowed his eyes as both Bastion and Jenny turned to where he was looking and found Jaden's group of Heroes lounging about, likely looking to get in on this delicious feast.
"Nothing to do with us!" the two female duel spirits replied in sync, grinning in response to how desperate Jaden was getting.
"Dwayne?" he asked, turning his attention to the only coloured duel spirit in his team. Having decided to wear a simple black tank-top and a pair of white khaki three-quarter shorts and a pair of spotless white trainers, he stood out among the heroes for his bulky frame and not the colour of his skin.
"Not me, dawg. I ain't getting involved with what happened last time with Wolf, man!" his Clayman replied, shaking his head and hands wanting nothing to do with it.
"I regret nothing." his Wildheart spoke up, grinning smugly as Jaden glared daggers at him; with Jaden remembering the event and also remembering payback was needed.
"Any of you guys?" Jaden asked, much to the amusement of his spirits.
"Nope!/Nu-uh!/No way!/Woof!" they all replied in the negative, to the amusement of both Bastion and Jennifer. As soon as they replied, a clap alerted them towards a middle-aged man that purposely walked out of the kitchen area, wearing a standard Ra Yellow blazer and a pair of cream trousers. His shiny long black hair had been tied into a tail, which went past his shoulders and down his back; and a mustache that reminded Jaden of a Spanish Duelist he once faced...
... or was it Italian?
May not even have been a duelist. Might be a film he watched once.
Zorko? Something like that.
"Good evening, students! My name is Professor Alejandro Sartyr, and I am the head teacher of the Ra Yellow Dormitory! I am also the Dorm's Head-Chef and am the one who prepared every single glorious dish of food in front of you; so please enjoy yourselves!" the professor bowed as Jaden and Jenny gave a quick thanks before shoveling heaps of food onto their place and devouring the food just as quickly. They got some unusual looks fro the other students but they simply passed it off as compensation for the long trip they all had and an excuse to follow their example and loosen their restraint and gorge themselves as well.
"It amazes me to no end to see people eat so much, yet it doesn't affect their figure in the least." Bastion mused to himself as he helped himself to some lobster. "Those with high metabolisms really are lucky..." he smiled.
~Chapter Two: End!~
~Original Card List!~
Trailblazing Hero (Spell)
Select one monster with 'Elemental Hero' in its name. Pay life points equal to the selected monster's total level stars times three hundred. The selected monster can attack your opponent directly this turn. If the chosen monster attacks your opponent directly as a result of this card, destroy it on your end phase.
Chthonian Rally Cry (Spell)
When you control a monster with the word 'Chthonian' in its name, you can special summon as many copies you can to the field from your hand, deck or graveyard; equal to the amount of cards discarded from your hand to the graveyard by this card's effect.
~Duel Spirit Identities - The Heroes! (Part I!)~
(Decided to adjust this little bit and make it a pop-up every so often for the duel spirits that will have identities in this fic! I'll make a list of their card names, their names and then their chosen names or nicknames given! As to why? It makes it more humane and having the duel spirit interaction adds a new twist to the fic and I've always liked the idea of having the interaction!) X3
As an added note; for the final time. I don't care what people think and I don't appreciate having to constantly repeat myself but I know that Bladedge is originally a male. I've decided to go against that and have a female duel spirit instead. Why? I thought it be cool! Will I change it? NO! She is staying female! XD
Elemental Hero Avian = Avi / "Feathers"
Elemental Hero Bladedge = Stephanie / "Steph"
Elemental Hero Bubbleman = Marcus / "Marc"
Elemental Hero Burstinatrix = Burstinatrix / "Trix"
Elemental Hero Cosmic Champion = Jason / "Jace"
Elemental Hero Clayman = Dwayne
Elemental Hero Heat = Nick
Elemental Hero Lady Heat = Kiyomi / "Yomi"
Elemental Hero Necroshade = Danny
Elemental Hero Sparkman = Jack / "Sparky"
Elemental Hero Supernova = Ayumi
Elemental Hero Wildheart = Wolf / "Mutt"
Wroughtweiler = Nathan / "Nate"