Aurasoul: Hey everyone! Welcome to another chapter of Yugioh Zexal!
Darka: So this is where I explain everything?
Aurasoul: Pretty much yeah.
Hotaru: Oh this is gonna be ugly.
Aurasoul: Again this is war girls. I don't own Zexal only my OCs but Antares and Sirius belong to Barian-chan, Shane to Shane Kor, Bakura to 0713MM, and Barian-chan and I share Lyra and also a shout out to MM for helping me with my work so now enjoy the show!
Chapter 28
"Alright now that we're all fed I think it's time you began Darka".
Everyone was sitting in the dining room of the tower having finished their meal Hotaru made as they all looked at Darka who gave a soft sigh at V's words and set her cup down. "Yes fair enough let's see there's a lot to go over need to know where to begin." She said softly.
"Start at the beginning Darkalicia-sama where it began for you and go from there." Bakura advised.
Darka gave a small nod leaning back slightly with a small sigh. "Well you guys know that part at least how in my first life I was the Priestess of the Crimson Dragon and also its Signer I was the only one to have survived the battle with the Earthbound Immortals I lost my Signers and people would turn me away I was alone till Jinlong and Misael found me." She said.
"So then you and Misael." Koru began.
Darka gave a small smile and nodded. "Yes he had allowed me to stay with him and Jinlong and soon enough we were engaged." She said.
"Of all the people." Hotaru muttered, sipping her wine.
"But Misael soon enough died along with Jinlong." Astral frowned.
Darka flinched rubbing her face, her eyes filled with sadness. "Yes I… I was there when he died and it still hurts to this day." She said sadly.
Flashback…
She then ran to the temple and gasped in horror to see the soldiers. "With my power I summon you Red Dragon Archfiend"! She yelled
Appearing was one of her dragons as it roared the people screamed in fear and ran away Darka ran and screamed to see Jinglong and Misael's bloody bodies. "Misael! Jinglong"! She yelled running to them.
Darka crouched down holding Misael as she looked and grew wide eyed for Jinglong was dead she then began shaking Misael. "Please Misael wake up." She whimpered.
Then there was a cough and Misael slowly opened his eyes."Darkalicia." He whispered.
"Misael please don't leave me", she begged tearfully.
"Darkalicia... Jinlong"? He asked.
"I'm sorry Misael." She whispered, shaking her head.
"I see." He said then coughed blood
"Misael please you can't leave me." Darka cried.
"I'm sorry Darkalicia I must but know I always loved you, I love you Darka"...
Misael's eyes slowly closed Darka gasped more tears streaming down. "No... MISAEL"!
End of Flashback…
They all looked shocked and sad for Darka as she hugged herself taking a deep breath while Astrana held her close. "I'm fine just hurts a little when I remember its ok." Darka assured her, patting Astrana's hand with a strained smile.
"Anyway after that day I buried Misael and Jinlong I rather not go to the details of how I died but when I did I was reborn as the new Giver of Life it took time adjusting to it I'll admit but as the years went by I began to adjust and become accustomed to my duties".
"But what about Hotaru and Manami? And your memories"? Yuma questioned.
"I'm getting there Yuma." Darka said with a slight smile.
"When I then formed my alliance with the Barian Guardians I began learning, more of the battle my predecessor took part in with Astral and Astrana against the enemy that is manipulating the Emperors".
"The true enemy", Harumi shivered.
"Who is it then"? Tetsuo questioned.
"Don Thousand".
They all turned to face Sirius who spoke the name venomously with deep seated hatred. "So you learned the truth then." Darka stated.
"All of the Guardians have it's because of him us, Durbe-nii, everyone." Sirius began angrily.
Hotaru turned away with a dark frown as the others looked shocked and Darka nodded. "Yes that is right Don Thousand is the true mastermind behind all of this the Emperors, our world fusing with Barian World, and of this war." She said.
"What do you mean"? Driote asked.
"Don Thousand is known as the deity of Barian World but originally he resided in Astral World." Darka began.
"Wait this sounds familiar." Cathy frowned.
"It's of the legend in the Shinori book Don Thousand he was Barian the previous Giver of Life fought and sealed away"! Kotori gasped.
"Glad you remember." Darka nodded. "Yes Don Thousand was indeed the same Barian the previous Giver of Life fought and sealed away alongside Astral and Astrana".
"Astral, Astrana do you two remember anything of that day"? III asked.
"Only pieces of it unfortunately but we do remember one thing." Astral said.
"What's that?'' Yuma asked.
"On that day when Don Thousand was sealed away brother and I performed a Shining Draw yet the previous-! I mean mother performed a different sort of draw it was with those powers that enabled her to seal away Don Thousand." Astrana said.
"But Don Thousand managed one last move even when he was sealed." Darka frowned.
"That has something to do with the Emperors and the Guardians"? Rokujuro asked.
"Yes you see the miraculous power used in order to defeat Don Thousand resulted in fragments of Astral's and Astrana's powers to scatter all over Earth and manifested as the Numbers including the Legendary Numbers and in order to seal Don Thousand my predecessor used the Legendary Numbers and attached them to heroes and sages." Darka explained.
"The Barian Emperors when they were human." IV frowned.
"That's right but Don Thousand knew of this and he, when sealed away years later, used his remaining power to confront them and corrupted their memories by binding their souls with the Over Hundred Numbers resulting them to be reborn as Barians." Darka said.
"What"?! They said shocked.
"But what about the Guardians then"? Gauche demanded, glancing at Sirius.
"Victims of Don Thousand's treachery because of their connections to the Emperors and to each other that resulted in them to become Barians." Darka frowned.
*SHATTER*
They all gasped and looked to see Hotaru holding the broken glass of her flute glass that she had shattered by her grip. "Hotaru"! Lya shrieked.
"It was all because of him it was because of him Shingetsu-sama." Hotaru growled with deep anger and sadness.
"Shingetsu-sama"? Tokonuske questioned.
"That was Vector's fake name he used." Takashi said shocked.
"But how does Hotaru"? Tetsuo began confused.
Darka gave a sad look as V took Hotaru's hand to gently take away the glass. "Hotaru its best you tell your story now the reason why I reincarnated you and Manami." She said.
Hotaru took three deep breaths to calm herself as she nodded looking at Manami who weakly nodded before she spoke. "As you guys already know back in the past I was the Demigod that had served Vector as his guardian alongside these two." She said, motioning to Sirius and Antares.
The two along with Lyra grew wide eyed in shock and realization looking at Hotaru. "Firefly-chan you remember." Antares said weakly.
"Yeah I remember who I really am and who you guys are to me." Hotaru said, glancing at the three Barian Guardians.
"Wait Hotaru you knew them in the past"? Gauche asked.
Hotaru nodded as she still looked at them. "Sirius Stone the knight, Antares Krieger the soldier, and Lyra who was one of the people who lived in Sirius's village." She said.
They gasped looking at the three who flinched. "So then Sirius and Antares are the knight and soldier." Shane frowned.
"Wouldn't that mean"-!
Harumi began but Koru quickly covered her mouth giving her a look silently telling her not to continue as Hotaru went on. "Sirius and Antares found me and took me to see Vector who was our kind lord Rei Shingetsu. He took me in allowing me to be the guardian of Umbra Patriae to protect it and its people. I agreed to it and I began loving it. I then went to Sirius's village where I met Lyra and the people there so lovely and kind it was wonderful." She said with a soft distant look.
They looked stunned and then shocked as Hotaru's face turned dark. "But then that day came that day when Shingetsu-sama changed and became Vector." She said, making Sirius pale.
Flashback…
Hotaru swiftly flew inside the castle heading straight to the room where Rei's father was. "No please." She begged quickly reaching the door.
Hotaru slammed it open and gasped in horror and terror both Vector's mother and father were dead and Vector stood with his back to her the tainted blade in his hands as Sirius ran to her and paled greatly at what he saw.
"Sh-Shingetsu-sama." He choked out. "Your parents."
Vector only turned around to look at them once, a murky power appearing behind his eyelids Hotaru shook sensing a dark power from Vector. "S-Shingetsu-sama." She said unsure what to say.
Vector didn't seem to even notice their terror, as he walked passed them without the slightest hint of emotion. As he did so, however, Sirius fell to his knees, his last meal fighting its way back up his throat.
Hotaru slowly walked to dead bodies and dropped to her knees tears streaming. "Why, why"? She begged out.
End of Flashback…
They all looked horrified as Antares placed a hand on Sirius's back who was already feeling the bile in his mouth once again as Hotaru choked a sob. "I don't know what had happened that day all I do know was that Shingetsu-sama changed that day to Vector and that something or someone had made him what he had become." She said.
"Th-that's horrible." Lizzie squeaked.
"After Vector declared war on Nasch's kingdom Sirius chose to leave, me and Antares didn't blame him we would've done the same but we couldn't for after all he was still our king no matter how much he changed." Hotaru said sadly.
"We then took part in the war yet we knew it was a losing battle and our side would be defeated but Vector had one more trap laid out for Nasch and didn't want us interfering and only to fight when the army came but then"…
"Then"? Droite questioned.
"Then… He did something that made me think that Shingetsu-sama was still there… He named me his heir." Hotaru said softly.
Flashback…
Hotaru was about to speak then gasp hearing a horse galloping. "Someone is coming." She said.
"Probably the king himself." Vector chuckled. "You two get out of here."
"What"?! Antares growled. "You really have lost it if you think we're leaving."
"Fire." Vector said, ignoring his right-hand's outburst.
"Yes"? Hotaru said facing her lord.
"In the event that I fail to return, I place what remains of my people under you." Vector said.
Antares paused while Hotaru gasp in shock and for the briefest of moments, they saw their former king again. "What"?! Hotaru gasped shocked.
"I don't need to repeat myself"! Vector snapped. "Now get going"!
Hotaru was still speechless until she gasped. "Come on Antares I hear more coming." She said
She undid the ties on her arms to show her wings and quickly flew.
End of Flashback…
"It was at the moment for just a split second I saw him the old Shingetsu-sama it made me realize that he was still in there somewhere like I thought he was and maybe just maybe he would return to us." Hotaru said with a tearful bitter smile.
"Hotaru." V said sadly, holding Hotaru.
She only shook her head. "But in the end he died along with the rest of our army same with Nasch and his army. The only ones that had survived were me, Antares, and Manami. Antares and I got separated during the fight but once it was over and realizing that both our kings were dead me and Manami forged an alliance with our kingdoms with me as the queen of Umbra and Manami being the sole ruler of her kingdom. Neither of us wanted what had happened to repeat itself and began working together to rebuild our kingdoms".
Yuma wanted to speak up but got a look from Astral and stayed silent as Hotaru went on. "Manami stayed in Umbra with me so we could organize the burial of our soldiers together that was when the three knights came to the castle." She said.
Flashback…
"Your Majesty".
Hotaru looked up to see a servant. "Yes?'' She asked.
"There are knights here that wish to speak with Queen Manami." The servant said.
"Knights"? Hotaru questioned shocked. "Tell them to wait I need to speak with Manami about this".
"Yes your majesty." The servant said leaving.
"Ugh so much to do." Hotaru sighed walking to Manami's room.
Hotaru had brought Manami back to the throne room as the servant brought the knights Manami gasped seeing them. "You're Durbe's allies. But why are you here? Where's Durbe"? Manami questioned.
Hotaru looked at the knights and grew wide eyed sensing something faint. This… This is the same sensation I felt from Shingetsu-sama faint but still there! She thought shocked.
The knights were silent all on their knees until one spoke. "Sir Durbe is... Dead your majesty."
Hotaru gasped and looked at Manami who grew pale shaking. "N-No thats"...
Manami dropped to the floor as she began to cry Hotaru comforting her.
End of Flashback…
"It was faint but I could sense the same darkness I sensed from Vector that day as if it was there but it wasn't anymore it made me realize that something was amiss." Hotaru frowned.
"Amiss"? Fuya asked.
"Yes this same darkness I have sensed from not only Vector but from these knights as well though not as powerful as Vector's it made me realize that it wasn't a coincidence." Hotaru frowned. "But at the time I couldn't follow this for I had to rebuild the kingdom so I sent few soldiers around the neighboring kingdoms to hear any local deaths or tragedies that had happened during the war or after Manami assisting me on this and over time we learned of Alit's, Girag's, and Misael's deaths of the Gladiator, Shogun, and Dragon Tamer".
Hotaru glanced at Darka. "That's when we began to know the truth." She said.
Flashback…
Hotaru stood over her desk where a map was laid out marks already on it as Manami stood next to her and they examined the map. "Our kings, your princess, your knight, a gladiator, a shogun, and a dragon tamer a total of seven people." Hotaru frowned.
"Along with our soldiers, Sirius, Antares, and the villagers in Sirius's village every single one of them died within the time span of the war." Manami frowned.
"That settles it then this is no coincidence no doubt in my mind we had been played and our loved ones were the price." Hotaru growled.
"But what could've done this"? Manami questioned angrily and with grief.
"Not what but who this has god work all over it, practically reeking it." Hotaru said angrily. "But what I want to know is what god is that cruel and bloodthirsty to do this, this puts my old gods to shame".
"Do you truly wish to know Queen Fire of Umbra Patriae"?
Hotaru and Manami gasped and quickly turned to see a hooded figure standing in front of them from across the room the hood and cloak a pale silver with glistening purple marks quickly Hotaru grabbed her scythe. "Who are you? How did you get in here"? She questioned deadly.
"You do not have to be on your guard I am not your enemy." The figure said calmly.
"You did not answer me. How did you get in here"? Hotaru repeated coldly.
The figure let out a light laugh. "Let's just say you are not the only one who can move in the shadows." The figure replied.
Hotaru grew wide eyed in shock as Manami took a step forward. "Lower your weapon Fire." She said.
"What?! Manami you can't be serious"! Hotaru hissed.
"She's not hostile nor a threat, stand down." Manami said calmly.
Hotaru looked at Manami for a moment before slowly lowering her scythe the figure nodded her thanks. "Thank you for that Queen Manami of the United Lands of the Poseidon Ocean." She said.
"It doesn't mean I trust you, you seem to know who we are and of what Fire is speaking about." Manami frowned.
"But of course for after all it is indeed a deity who took your loved ones." The figure said, stepping forward.
"Wait you know who did this"? Hotaru demanded.
The figure nodded pointing at each marked location as she spoke. "King Nasch of the United Lands of the Poseidon Ocean, his twin sister Princess Merag, his knight Durbe, the mad king of Umbra Patriae Vector, the gladiator Alit, the shogun Girag, and the Dragon Tamer Misael these seven people were who the deity was after to use as his puppets someday." She said.
"What"?! The two gasped in shock.
"Yes and sadly the rest who had died were victims of the deity's evil work." The figure said sadly.
Hotaru roared in anger while Manami leaned heavily on the desk, her face pale as a sheet. "Who is this deity?! What is his name"?! Hotaru growled.
The figure didn't flinch by Hotaru's anger as she spoke. "He goes by Don Thousand and plans to rule this world gaining these seven people are just part of his plan but there is a way to stop him and save your loved ones." She said.
They looked shocked as the figure went on. "Years from now you will see your loved ones again but in a different life it will be at that time you will have the chance to save them and I can help you to make sure you save them." She said.
"And how can you possibly do that"? Hotaru questioned, arms crossed with a frown.
The figure held up her hands as they glowed red and blue. "I am gifted with many abilities, one of which is to mark your souls in order for them to be sent somewhere safe until the time comes for you two to be reborn to save the ones you lost too early in this life." She explained.
The two looked stunned by this and Manami couldn't help but speak up. "But why do this? What's in this for you"? Manami questioned stunned.
The figure was silent before speaking. "The Dragon Tamer was my beloved taken from me by Don Thousand." She said.
The two gasped as the figure went on. "I wish to defeat him so no pain will come again for anyone but I know I cannot do it alone that is why I come to you two." She said.
The two were stunned by this looking at the figure in front of them as they looked at one another, with one look they agreed and nodded before facing the figure. "Alright we'll do it for those we have lost we'll save them from this evil being." Hotaru said.
"Thank you come forward and place your arms out upward so I may mark your souls." The figure said.
They nodded walking to the figure holding out their arms. The figure walked to them. She traced a line on Hotaru's arm with her hand that glowed blue Hotaru hissed feeling a stinging pain on her arm and her chest then. The figure did the same to Manami with her hand that glow red making Manami wince they then looked at their arms that glowed faintly before turning normal. "It is done with that I shall take my leave." The figure said.
"Wait please." Manami called, making the figure to stop and turn to face her. "Will you not at least tell us your name before you go"?
The figure was silent before removing her hood to show Darkalicia as she looked at the two. "I am Darkalicia".
End of Flashback…
"You showed yourself to Hotaru and Manami"?! Yuma gaped to Darka.
"Yes mind you by the time of that meeting 5 years had passed and I was already capable of my abilities." Darka nodded. "When I learned that Fire and Manami were figuring out of the situation I knew they could be allies so I showed myself to them and by marking their souls with my fire and water I was able to bring them back with me in reincarnation".
"Though it resulted in your amnesia." Nyx spoke.
"In the end we were all brought here in the war though." Darka shrugged.
"Ok but what about Manami? With her being this missing Barian Emperor. If she was really a Barian Emperor why didn't Don Thousand try to manipulate and have her killed"? Shane questioned.
"It's not that Don Thousand didn't try it's that he couldn't." Darka said simply.
"What do you mean"? Sirius questioned.
"To put it simply Manami was supposed to have been killed in the war by Hotaru." Darka spoke grimly.
They all grew wide eyed in horror glancing at Hotaru who was grinding her teeth while Manami was rubbing her arm. "Don Thousand had hoped to use the Shadow Game, Nasch and Vector took part in to control Hotaru into killing Manami resulting in her birth as a Barian Emperor but what he didn't take into account for was her own power as a Demigod and her own Shadow Magic." Darka explained. "When the two managed to come to an agreement Hotaru's Shadow Magic subconsciously began to protect Manami as a result because of it neither of them were affected by the outcome of the duel and managed to survive".
"But the fact of the matter Manami was reborn as part Barian shows she is still technically the rightful Eighth Barian Emperor more precisely the Barian Queen." Bakura spoke.
They all looked at Manami who was looking down sadly looking at her hands. "Manami I'm sorry to have used you the way I did back there to get to Nasch." Darka apologized. "But if you truly wish to go back to Nasch and Merag then we won't stop you"-
"No"! Manami suddenly yelled.
They all jumped as Manami shook. "I… I don't want to betray you all when you are my friends and family but yet… I don't wish to betray them either my comrades, my other friends, Iris, Merag… Nasch... I"... She began.
Then she looked up with tears in her eyes. "I don't know what to do." She said sorrowfully.
IV was by Manami's side in an instant hugging her tightly as she hugged back, he gave a look to Darka and she nodded he carefully got her out of her seat and led her down the hall as they watched sadly. "This isn't going to be easy for Manami." Astrana frowned.
"It won't be easy for any of us but that's war for you." Darka spoke sadly.
"Though now time for you to answer another question Darka".
They looked at Hotaru who was lighting a cigarette. "And what question is that"? Darka asked.
Hotaru blew smoke before pointing the cigarette at Darka. "Did you knew Shark and Rio were Nasch and Merag?'' she asked.
They all grew wide eyed quickly looking at Darka who was unfazed by the question. "And I don't mean did you know Darka Shinori I mean did you know Giver of Life Darkalicia." Hotaru stated with a frown.
Darka was silent before she sighed. "Yes and no I didn't know that Shark and Rio specifically were Nasch and Merag but I did know that they would be reborn as humans after their deaths after all it was with my power they were reborn." She explained.
They all gaped in shock as Hotaru frowned, placing the cigarette back in her mouth. "Explain." She said.
Darka rubbed her temple as she spoke. "500 years ago at best I received a vision of Nasch and Merag's deaths by another Barian, I couldn't tell who, naturally I had to do something but since I didn't have no jurisdiction to reincarnate souls of Barian World I gave a piece of my power to Abyss." She explained.
"Abyss? Abyss Splash you mean"? Sirius questioned.
"Yes Abyss is a god who I had known after my rebirth as the Giver of Life he has loyalty to Nasch, Merag, and Manami so I spoke with him about the situation." Darka said.
Flashback…
Darka floated in the water of Abyss's domain as he stood in front of her. "Considering the circumstances I cannot be the one to help them", Darka told him.
"That's why".
Darka formed an orb floating it to Abyss for him to absorb. "I shall give you a piece of my power in order to reincarnate them who they will be is up to you,'' she said.
"As you wish, thank you for allowing me to do this." Abyss said with a bow.
"Do not thank me yet Abyss not until they are safe." Darka frowned, before she left in white light.
End of flashback…
"So in other words their lives were saved thanks to you as such you have a life debt on them." Hotaru frowned as she blew smoke.
"Please I only knew they couldn't die they didn't deserve that." Darka sighed. "And so they were reborn as Ryoga and Rio Kamishiro yet in the end they remembered who they really are.''
The others looked at one another shocked as Koru spoke "So what do we do now"? Koru asked with a frown.
"Something tells me you have an idea of sorts Darka." Astral stated, looking at Darka.
"You are not wrong I do have a plan but I'll explain it later." Darka said, as she stood up from her seat looking at the clock. "For our guest should be arriving now".
As if on cue a portal appeared and out stepped Durbe in his human form shocking them as they all stood. "Durbe-nii." Sirius gasped.
Durbe turned facing them. "Sirius." He spoke, before taking in the scene. "Am I interrupting"?
"Not at all we had just finished actually." Darka assured.
"Something tells me you are not surprised it was me that came." Durbe remarked, looking at Darka.
"I had a feeling Nasch and Merag wouldn't be able to come and they trust you with their lives along with Manami's." Darka stated.
Durbe twitched at the mention of Manami with a frown which Darka noticed. "You can go see her if you like before we discuss the deal." she said.
The others looked at Darka shocked as Durbe glanced at her suspiciously. "You do not mind"? He asked.
"Not at all she is your queen and more importantly your close friend you have every right to see her." Darka stated. "She's in the room down the hall on the left with Thomas she needed a breather".
"Thank you." Durbe nodded, walking off.
"D-Darka are you sure this is ok"? Yuma asked worried.
"Don't worry nothing will happen." Darka assured.
"This is some twisted shit you're doing isn't it." Koru frowned.
"Don't know what you mean", Darka shrugged.
Durbe walked down the hall as Darka instructed him until reaching an opened door he peered inside to see IV holding Manami his arm wrapped tightly around her shoulders while she leaned on his chest her eyes red from crying looking so torn that it broke Durbe's heart. The two seem to be whispering to one another IV in comfort and Manami in sadness though not meaning to he began to hear their words. "It's gonna be ok Ningyo." IV told her gently.
"Thomas no offence but I don't see how it's gonna be ok." She replied sadly.
"Hey come on where's the determination you always had?" He coaxed with gentle playfulness. "This can't be the same girl who slapped me for being a jerk."
She stifled a small chuckle. "Well you did deserve it at the time." She admitted.
"Hey I don't deny it." He grinned, nuzzling the top of her head. "So don't lose it ok? We'll figure something out with Ryoga and Rio."
She was only silent touching her pendant Durbe slowly walked in the room making the two look up Manami grew wide eyed while IV glared holding her protectively. "Why the hell are you here?" He snapped.
"I came here as Darkalicia instructed but she allowed me to speak with Manami." Durbe replied calmly.
"What? Dammit Darka." IV muttered.
"Thomas it's ok." Manami spoke softly.
The two looked at Manami who had a weak smile touching IV's hand. "Mind leaving us alone?" She asked softly.
"Are you sure?" IV frowned worried.
She nodded IV was unsure for a moment before he nodded kissing the top of her head before he let her go and got up walking past Durbe giving him a glare before leaving the room Durbe watched him go before looking at Manami her clothes were slightly tattered and dirty no doubt from her voyage in Astral World. She also now wore a violet crystal that softly glowed on a silver thread with a diamond pendant he believed she received from Nasch and then there were her eyes. Her familiar blue eyes he knew all too well that held a swirl of emotions most he knew he was responsible for along with Nasch and Merag. He kneeled in front of her the familiarity setting in him of their positions as he spoke. "Manami forgive my intrusion but-!"
He blinked to feel her gently grip his nose and looked up to see tired fondness in her eyes. "Durbe I swear by Abyss I thought we agreed to no formality not between us." She told him.
He blinked surprised before softly smiling as she let him go but he gently took her hand. "Do you remember then?" He asked gently.
She sighed and motioned with her other hand to have him sit next to her. He stood up and did so but not letting go of her hand she was silent before she nodded. "I… I had help in gaining my memories, when we were all in Astral World." She replied, fiddling with the purple crystal. "It was an… Unusual experience to say the least."
"Unusual?" He questioned.
"Maybe that's not the word." She frowned, a hand on her forehead. "More like intense."
Flashback…
Manami followed Bakura a worried frown on her face the two had separated from Hotaru and Nyx who said that there was a different area for Hotaru to remember her memories. Manami was worried for Hotaru but nervous for herself especially when Bakura led her down the tower until he stopped. "Here we are." He told her.
She looked at him confused before looking in front of him and gasped to see a large body of water the water itself sparkled like stardust yet seemed crystal clear and if she looked close enough she could almost see a shape moving. "Wh-What is this?" She whispered.
"Memoria piscinæ or Pool of Memory if you will." He replied. "Here you shall regain your lost memories."
"Wait I'm supposed to go in?" She questioned surprised.
"It is the best place to go with your water abilities you'll feel most at ease and have the best effect." He explained to her.
She looked at him unsure before looking at the pool taking a deep breath she walked to the edge before she took a step in and reflexively shivered. It felt cold yet at the same time it didn't she continued to walk in the water until she was waist deep in before diving flipping on her back and closed her eyes. The effect was almost immediate. She gasped by the rush of memories in her mind causing her to twist and turn as if wanting to escape but knew she couldn't. She felt herself almost reliving the memories feeling the same emotions she had before. Then finally one memory surfaced which made her gasp as a roar echoed in the pool as it glowed before she surfaced with a gasp clutching the edge while holding a card in her hand. "Manami!" Bakura called, kneeling next to her.
Manami panted looking at the card in her hand before clutching her stomach and choking out a sob.
End of Flashback…
"It wasn't say painful, just very forceful." She replied.
He looked at her shock before frowning softly. "But if your memories have indeed returned. Why stay with them? Why not return to us?" He questioned.
"It's not that simple Durbe." She frowned, shaking her head.
"Manami you're place is with us." He began.
"Durbe you have to realize what you're asking me." She frowned.
"To come back as our rightful queen." He told her.
"And betray my family?" She countered with a scowl, making him gasp. "My mother and father, my sisters, friends who are like brothers and sisters to me?"
"Of Manami Shinori not you Queen Manami." He frowned.
"I am both the same person Durbe." She frowned. "Would you then betray and fight your own brother?"
At this he flinched painfully making her sigh tired rubbing her face. "I'm sorry that was uncalled for." She apologized. "But you see where I'm going with this. Both my past and my present, they are both me these people are my family and I love them just as much as Nasch and Merag. I say this as Manami Shinori and Queen Manami."
He frowned, yet knew she was right this was how Manami was her love was never dying never ending which he knew was her strong point. "Is there no way for you to come to us?" He asked softly.
She frowned slightly gently holding his hand in hers. "I… I need time to think, Durbe please." She replied.
"Of course." He nodded.
And he meant it Manami was worth it to him, Merag, and especially Nasch. Manami then looked out the door. "You should go talk with Darka now. You kept her waiting long enough." She replied.
He looked at her but nodded standing and letting her hand go but laid his forehead on hers. "Just don't forget despite all this we all still love you Manami." He told her.
Her breath hitched yet nodded with a sad smile before he turned walking out the room to see IV his back on the wall next to the door arms crossed and eyes closed he opened one eye to see Durbe before going back to the room without a word Durbe watched to see IV sitting next to Manami worried but she gave a weak smile to assure him and he hugged her. Never wishes to worry others. You haven't changed Manami. He thought fondly.
He walked down the hall again to see most of the others were gone the only ones there were Yuma, Darka, Astral, Astrana, Kaito, III, V, Hotaru, Shane, Koru, Harumi, the Sages, and the Barian Guardians. "Where are your companions?" He questioned suspiciously.
"Calm yourself, the majority of them had gone off to help the citizens of the City who weren't absorbed." Darka spoke lightly. "The situation has caused a panic you know."
"Hmph so what is this deal you wish to propose to us?" He questioned.
"Straight to the point good." Darka nodded, standing. "As you already know both sides wish to gain the Numeron Code but in order to do so we would need the Legendary Numbers to find the location. You have 2 Abyss Splash and Crystal Zero but we have 5 Sky Pegasus, Judge Buster, Lion Heart, Dragluon, and Veteran Tanuki Sandayu. As such we're in a standoff."
"What's your point?" He questioned.
"Why not make it official." Darka smirked. "Each of you will face us who hold a Legendary Number a true winner takes all to gain all 7."
"What?!" Yuma gaped.
"Darka you can't be serious!" Astrana gasped.
Durbe was stunned looking at Darka who still had a smirk narrowing his eyes. "Do you take us lightly?" He demanded.
"Not at all but we'll only go around in circles if we go on and it will benefit both sides making it quick work." Darka replied lightly.
"There won't be survivors." Durbe warned.
"We know of the risks the moment we stepped into this battle don't take our resolve lightly Durbe." Darka smirked.
Durbe observed Darka for a moment sensing no fear or worry only confidence and a calm composure and even he knew that what she said made sense. "I would need to speak with Nasch about this." He only said.
"Of course that is reasonable." Darka nodded, checking the clock. "An hour and a half should be enough to make a decision, yes? Once you have, meet me on the roof of the tower."
"Very well." He nodded. "But let me ask you something. Do you truly realize the risk of going through with this?"
"Risk is the necessary in life you just have to have the courage to take it." Darka replied.
He looked at her for a moment glancing at Sirius before facing her. "May I speak with Sirius alone for a moment before I go?" He asked.
"Of course." Darka nodded.
Durbe nodded turning to Sirius who nodded the two leaving the room once they did the others rushed to Darka. "Darka did that near death experience made you lose a few brain cells?!" Hotaru hissed. "What were you thinking risking the Legendary Numbers like that?!"
"Even I must question this Darka." Astral frowned.
"Darka." Astrana voiced worried.
Darka only raised a finger to her lips a knowing look on her face which Yuma, Astral, and Astrana understood and only nodded Darka walked to the balcony where Sirius and Durbe were standing next to the entrance hearing their conversation. "Sirius what is going on in Darkalicia's mind? Suggesting something like this." Durbe remarked.
"Believe me Durbe-nii even I don't know what Darka's thinking and I'm her guardian." Sirius shrugged. "But I do know that she doesn't do something like this unless for a reason she's always like that."
"Even if she's risking all of you?" Durbe demanded.
"You mean me?" Sirius asked knowingly.
Durbe flinched looking away as they both viewed the pillar of light. "Durbe-nii you'll see something out of this something you'll understand that is if you all will agree to her challenge." Sirius spoke.
Durbe looked at Sirius before he sighed. "If you're sure of this then it must be something important I best go." He said, frowning for a moment. "Sirius about Manami."
"I'll keep an eye on her even with her watchdog." Sirius assured with a knowing smirk.
Durbe gave a light smile before he formed a Network and disappeared Darka sighed softly as Sirius stepped back inside. "Ok so can you now explain what you're thinking?" Yuma demanded.
"To put it mildly we're going to free the Barian Emperors' of their curse." Darka spoke lightly.
"Curse?" Harumi questioned surprised.
"Don Thousand's curse." Bakura replied.
"That's right, like I said before Don Thousand used his remaining power to confront and corrupted the Barian Emperors' memories by binding their souls with the Over Hundred Numbers that is his curse so if we are to save them we must break their curse." Darka explained.
"But how do we do that?" III questioned.
"That's where the Legendary Numbers come in they are the keys of their memories which means if we have them defeat their Over Hundred Numbers then that will break their curse and restore their memories." Darka nodded.
"So that's why you put them on the line." Kaito remarked.
"That's right these Numbers are the key to change the course of this war." Darka nodded. "Each of us who have formed a connection with the Barian Emperors will duel them and save them."
"Wait what happens if we don't break this curse?" Koru questioned.
Darka's expression grew grim. "Vector has no doubt brought Don Thousand back within his body and in order for Don Thousand to revive his true strength he must absorb the Chaos of the Barian Emperors in other words if we do not save them." She frowned. "Then they will be consumed by him."
They all looked horrified by this as Darka looked at everyone. "Which is why breaking their curse is the utmost importance." She told them.
"It goes without saying plus having them on our side will give us an advantage." Nyx added.
"I'm more concerned about saving their souls." Darka frowned, before glancing at the others. "Yuma I want you to duel Alito with Lion Heart."
"Me?" Yuma blinked surprised.
"From what I saw in his ruins you seem to be a good friend to him which is why I think you're the perfect person to duel him." Darka smiled. "Clash your burning souls and reach out to him."
Yuma was surprised but grinned and nodded. "You got it!" He assured.
Darka smiled and nodded, turning to Sirius. "Sirius since you're Durbe's brother I need you to duel him with Sky Pegasus." She replied.
"That goes without saying." Sirius stated.
Darka nodded, turning to Hotaru. "Hotaru." She began.
"I'll duel Vector there's nothing to debate." Hotaru only said.
Darka gave a sad smile and nodded. "Of course I'll be the one to duel Misael." She began.
"Woah is that a good idea?" Hotaru frowned. "I mean with your history with him."
"She has a point maybe it would be best if Kaito would duel him." Astrana suggested.
"If this is about what happened in Misael's ruins that won't be necessary." Darka retorted lightly. "I'll be fine now besides our relationship is literally in the past I… I only wish to save him just as how he saved me."
They all looked surprised as Darka's eyes became distant. "I lost so much feeling I had nothing yet Misael… He saved me from my mournful state which is why I'll repay him and free him from his curse."
"Darka…" Astrana frowned sadly.
Kaito looked at Darka before walking to her and gently placing his hand on her shoulder making her look surprised. "Kaito?" She spoke.
"Something tells me that you're the only one he'll listen to." He admitted, handing her Dragluon. "So it's best you duel him."
Darka was surprised but smiled thankfully taking the Numbers. "Thank you Kaito." She thanked.
"Indeed together we can save Misael."
Jinlong appeared next to Darka surprising the others while Darka smiled. "Yes he saved us so we return the favor no matter how stubborn he'll be." She smiled.
"Hahaha! Indeed it will be a challenge." Jinlong laughed.
Darka smiled before facing the rest. "Now there's Girag." She began.
"Darka let me duel Girag-san!" Lizzie spoke up.
"Lizzie?!" Yuma gaped.
"Please Darka! I wish to duel Girag-san not just for his sake but Ponta's too! To bring back the man he once knew!" Lizzie begged.
Darka rubbed the back of her head unsure before speaking. "Well Ponta you heard her. What do you think?" She asked.
"Eh?" They blinked.
Then suddenly a yellow sphere popped out of Yuma's Extra Deck making him yelp to then take the shape of Ponta as he landed on Darka's head. "I'd be honored, pon!" Ponta smiled.
"Ponta!" Lizzie, Yuma, and Astrana gasped.
"But how? We were sure Girag had swallowed you." Astral remarked stunned.
"Haha don't underestimate a Kagemusha, pon!" Ponta smirked. "When Darkalicia-sama shouted out that warning to me I quickly made a copy of myself in order to escape but it took a bit out of me so I had to rest, pon."
"Oh thank goodness you're ok." Lizzie smiled tearfully.
"Yup! And Miss Elizabeth I'd be happy and honored to partner with you to help save Kiraku, pon!" Ponta smiled.
"The honor is all mine." Lizzie smiled.
"Well that's settled, Yuma." Darka spoke.
"Right." Yuma nodded.
Yuma walked to Lizzie handing her Veteran Tanuki Sandayu. "Just promise me you'll be safe Lizzie." He replied worried.
Lizzie gave a small smile taking the card. "Don't worry Yuma I'll be fine with Ponta by my side." She smiled.
"Leave her protection to me, pon." Ponta nodded, jumping on Lizzie's shoulder.
"Now all that's left is Nasch and Merag." Darka frowned.
"But wait, Shark has their Legendary Numbers. How can we help him and his sister?" Yuma questioned.
"Yes that is the problem…" Darka grimace.
"Let me duel them."
They all looked up surprised to see Manami standing with IV by her side, her appearance almost small and fragile. "Manami you can't be serious!" Hotaru gaped.
"My dueling tactics should be able to get their Legendary Numbers." Manami frowned.
"That isn't the problem here Manami." Hotaru snapped. "What you're asking is to duel your beloved and your sister!"
"And that is why I have to duel them!" Manami retorted, making Hotaru flinch.
"Manami." IV frowned.
Manami clutched her hands tightly. "Those two… They are my responsibility. Nasch was my husband in our past lives and my boyfriend in this one and Rio is my sister! I have to be the one to stop them from this course they're on!" She frowned.
"Husband?!" Yuma yelped flushing.
"You saw Nasch's memories Yuma surely you knew this." Darka frowned, facing Manami. "But you must remember since you're the Eighth Barian Emperor that means Vector and Don Thousand will try to consume you as well which means if you go out there you'll be targeted."
"I'll take the chance they're worth it." Manami frowned defiantly.
"She's a brave one, pon." Ponta remarked hushed.
Darka looked at Manami for a moment before she lightly facepalmed with a sigh. "Even if I say no you'll no doubt go on anyway." She muttered.
"Darka!" Hotaru voiced.
"Hotaru you know better than anyone that Manami won't be taking no for an answer on this." Darka frowned. "Besides it's best to let her do this she might be the one person that can get through to the both of them."
Hotaru frowned knowing her sister was right before looking at Manami and scowled. "Fine but you better not lose." She replied.
"Right…" Manami replied softly, walking to Sirius. "Here Sirius you'll need this."
Manami held out Sky Pegasus to Sirius and he took it. "Thank you Manami." He nodded.
"Now that that's settled we have an hour and a half to prepare and I suggest you two freshen up." Darka remarked to her sisters.
"Eh?" Hotaru and Manami blinked.
Darka sweatdropped. "You two do realize your clothes are pretty tattered and dirty, right?" She questioned.
The two blinked looking at one another and gasp. "Oh wow." Hotaru weakly smiled.
"Guess we didn't notice." Manami smiled sheepishly.
"I figured you didn't." Darka sighed. "Thankfully I asked Kotori to help with that."
After she said that Kotori came back with Kasumi and Tsunayoshi following behind. "Mom, dad? What are you doing here?" Hotaru gaped.
"Kotori-chan here asked us to come with her with spare clothes for you two I can now see why." Kasumi sighed, holding up two bags to them. "Here clean yourselves up and change."
They blinked but nodded taking the bags and walking to rooms Tsunayoshi talking with V, III, and IV. "Faker wants to talk with us. He thinks we should locate and contact Byron about the situation of the two worlds hopefully we could at least try to slow down the process." He told them.
"And we'll need to make sure no more citizens have taken those Fake Numbers." III added.
"The others are handling that right now while evacuating the people." V spoke.
"But we'd have to dispose of them if we see them." IV frowned.
Darka heard them and sighed softly then felt a cool hand on her cheek. She looked up to see the gentle gaze of her mother. "How are you feeling dear?" She asked worried.
"Fine, just a little tired." Darka admitted softly.
"Then you should take some time to rest no one would fault you on that." Kasumi replied.
Darka frowned yet nodded before looking at Kasumi. "Mom I'm sorry I-"
"No apologies Darka." Kasumi stopped her gently. "There's nothing to apologize for."
Darka gave a weak smile hugging Kasumi as she hugged back.
Aurasoul: And with that chapter 28 has been posted!
Hotaru: Oh hell I just know this is going to be hectic.
Aurasoul: Yes it will now I might just post the next chapter soon so until then everyone read and review!