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Challenges reign.
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Battle City-New Evil Emerges, Old Friends Reunite Chapter 13
Were we really seeing Kaiba again? I thought we would hopefully bump into him sooner or later, after saving him from that virtual game his board members trapped him in, because I thought it would be cool to know the reincarnation of Priest Seto. But I never thought he would make up a tournament and then invite us in too. I mean, it wasn't really expected. Not that he wasn't capable of hosting a tournament this huge or anything, but I never expected he would. It was all of a sudden, you know? And I found it a little weird how Ishizu had said this tournament, the one Kaiba was hosting, would be the one to hold the answers to the questions Yami and I had. That had to be a coincidence. Or maybe I was just thinking too hard about it. But still...there was this funny feeling in the pit of my stomach telling me that maybe it was...
"Is it just me...or are we seeing Seto Kaiba floating in the sky?" asked Eric, blinking at the figure standing on the helicopter's skids as it hovered in mid-air. I sweat dropped thinking that his way of saying it was very funny.
"It appears so." stated Mai, just as amazed at how much of an entrance Kaiba made. "It seems like he would do anything to grab people's attention."
"Well..." I said, looking around at everyone else who was cheering at the CEO in excitement. "He has their attention alright."
The helicopter's blades spun around at hyper speed and to keep his balance on the skids, Kaiba held the door's handle. His eyes scanned the group of people below him like he was searching for someone. The large television screens on every building simply flashed his slim structured face. I swear I heard some girls swoon over them.
"Greetings, duelists." he shouted over the roar of the helicopter blades. "Welcome to the town of Domino! But more importantly, welcome to my tournament!"
The crowd below cheered even louder and I thought if they kept this up, my ears would burst. Obviously something like Kaiba dropping from the sky impresses them.
"I don't know what's bigger," said Mai, crossing her arms over her chest defiantly while she gave Kaiba a glare. "his ego, or his melon on the big screen."
Yami gave the man a glare through his crimson eyes as well. I'm sure we were the only group of people who weren't really happy about Kaiba hosting the tournament. I suppose we were the only ones to think he was so full of himself, while everyone else thought he was really cool. "Let's see what Kaiba has to say." said Yami.
"I see you each received my private invite to Kaiba Corp.'s very exclusive Duel Monsters Tournament." continued Kaiba. "And you had enough brains to show up here tonight."
...oh, so that's why he has a big ego...
"Being that you are all elite duelists, I've added special rules to my tournament, just for experts."
OK, that was strange. What rules could Kaiba have made? Were they specifically targeted to some people? Or did he just decide to play with people's emotions or taunt them?
No...I sense something else. My Locket burned quietly on my skin, as if in a warning. There was something about the look in Kaiba's eyes that told me he was doing everything for a reason. I want to find out just what is it he wants but to do that I suppose I will have to join this tournament. That's great. Another reason to enter.
"For example," Kaiba showed his other arm, the one that wasn't occupied to keep his balance, to show one of his rules. Wait...show? "You will duel using these new improved Duel Disks."
On his arm, was a strange looking device. On the screens of the televisions, there was a closer view. It looked like there was a solid band going around his arm which was attached to a slate with five slots on them. There was a red arrow on each slot and the device looked clean and easy.
"Check that out!" we heard someone cry in amazement from behind. "Leave it to Kaiba to come up with the coolest products!" It was true Kaiba and his company were far advanced than what I've seen so far. And it was reassuring to know that we wouldn't have to duel with those chunky platforms anymore. Before he showed the duel disk to us, I was beginning to think of a way one of those dueling platforms will rise from underground. I suppose that was only capable to happen at Duelist Kingdom, because this was Domino City; a place of asphalt roads and skyscrapers, not clear meadows and forests. So using his duel disks might be so much more easier. And it is pretty cool, I suppose.
"Another new rule that I've designed for the tournament is that before each duel, both players must ante up their rarest card and the loser of the duel will forfeit their card to the winner." Kaiba's eyes gleamed with something unrecognizable. I knew for sure now that there was a specific reason behind all of this! How could he have come up with the idea in the first place?
Nonetheless, this struck me like a tonne of bricks. Losing one of my cards? No matter which one, I treasured all of them, and I couldn't stand to lose even one. Kaiba had to be mad to make this rule! Did he really want people to give up their rarest cards? This was insane!
"Forfeit my Dark Magician?" said Yami angrily beside me. I wouldn't blame him. Yugi said that was his favourite card and of course they both treasured their cards too just like any other true duelist. He had a lot of respect for them and his respect inspired me. I would hate to see Yugi's Dark Magician in someone else's deck too.
"That means losing even one duel can ruin my deck." said Mai. I remembered some of her cards from Duelist Kingdom...she had quite a few combinations and all of her cards played extremely well with each other. If she was lose even one, it would set her deck off balance. I had to agree with her.
Eric scoffed beside us. He looked like he would own anything right now, and it seemed like he was already thinking up his victory speech too, like he had already won the tournament. "I don't know what you guys are worrying so much about." he said. "You're really good duelists, there's no way you'll lose your cards!"
It's still an unsure thought to linger in our minds. There could come a chance when we could lose but we never know it.
"My competition will make Pegasus and his Duelist Kingdom tournament look like a joke!" said Kaiba next and the group of people around us began cheering all over again. Pegasus seemed so last year to everyone when it was only a while ago Yugi had won the Duelist Kingdom tournament. And only a while ago I had first told Yugi who I was.
"Don't forget to register and pick up your duel disk because exactly one week from today, my Battle City tournament begins!" It was like Kaiba was challenging him. Yami was staring back at Kaiba with the same amount of determination Kaiba seemed to have been reflecting back at him. It was like both of THEM were having a war with glares now.
Now it was beginning to make sense. The whole reason Kaiba could have been hosting this tournament might have been because he wants to regain his title of champion. Ever since the gang told me of Yugi's win against him, Kaiba's been trying to get back his title. The whole point of the tournament could be because he wanted to get back at Yugi. Good lord...talk about a vicious rivalry.
Kaiba and Yami gave each other one last glare before the helicopter swerved a little to the right, beginning to take off towards Kaiba Corp, which is most likely where Kaiba will go back to. The crowd around us gave him one more excited holler until the copter disappeared behind some buildings. The television screens went back to showing commercials, and we, out of everyone, heard what Yami said under his breath, just as the last helicopter blade disappeared from view.
"You're on, Kaiba." His crimson eyes almost burned with conviction. If Kaiba wants to dare him with a tournament, in hopes of getting his title back, then he won't pass it down. He never gives up a challenge. And he won't certainly stop now.
As everything went back to what was considered normal in this town, meaning the presence of Kaiba had finally vanished somewhat, the crowd began to quiet down and disperse. They had the thought of registering stuck in their minds and they certainly had the urge to try out Kaiba's new invention. It looked pretty neat and with the relieving thought of not having to use those bulky platforms for this tournament was certainly encouraging. Even I wanted to give it a try.
I cast my scarlet eyes onto Yami, who was staring at the place in the sky Kaiba was occupying moments before. He left this troubling sense when he disappeared, like something was going to happen in this tournament that will change our lives. Maybe...it was the determination Kaiba had when he stared down at Yami. It was like he was saying, "I know I can win against you now. Good luck trying to win my tournament." Maybe entering this tournament wasn't such a good idea... Maybe Kaiba will win and then that;'s how our lives will change.
On the other hand, we needed to enter. Ishizu had said herself that this tournament would hold the answers to the questions Yami and I had. If that's the case, no matter how much Kaiba and Yami might be at each other's throats, we'll have to enter. We need the information. And Yami needed to regain his lost memories. The only way to do that is to enter the tournament.
I never thought it would be me who had to get answers. I was supposed to be the one with all of them, to every question Yami might have ever since he was released from within the Millennium Puzzle. But ever since Ishizu had said some things about my...power...I'm beginning to doubt if I could ever really help Yami. But that was something I'll have to thing about later on. I can't hold back now, when Yami and I were going to enter this tournament. I had to be at the top of my game, and I can't stand it when I don't give it my all.
"Kaiba has some serious issues." I said, without thinking really. Everyone turned to look at me with blinking eyes. Even Yami had looked away from the sky to give me a look of confusion. "He wants your title really badly, Yugi. I think it's the whole reason he's put this tournament up."
Yami merely gave me a small shrug. "Maybe." he said. "But you know why we have to enter. It's not because I have to keep the title."
Eric gave him a smirk. "But while you're in the tournament, for who knows what reasons, you'll end up getting what you came here for and winning the whole thing all at once! So you don't even need to worry about trying your hardest."
Yami knew Eric's praise meant something else. Then he saw it. The flash of attitude Eric always had when he thought he would rule the world.
"Well, of course it would be possible without me being in the tournament." he said, the smirk on his face never leaving. "But since I am here, you'd better try even better than your hardest! Because I'm going to wipe the floor with you!"
"You'll have to get through me, Eric." I scoffed. "Remember, I was the one to beat you at Duelist Kingdom. You'll have to beat me in order to get to Yugi."
Eric's smirk became mischievous as he thought about it. It was the simple truth though, and he knew it. "You're right." he said. "Then you'd better be careful. I didn't like losing to you at all, even if I do admire you. So when this tournament starts, be prepared, because I'm going to challenge you as soon as I can and then we'll see who's the true victor!"
On second thought, maybe this guys hadn't changed. He's back to his old self. Or...close to his old self anyway. "Hah! We shall see! First of all though, we need to register."
Eric's smirk fell as he remembered that we were here only to know who was hosting the tournament and when to register. "Oh yeah." he said sheepishly. "Right...well, uh...when we do register, be prepared!"
I waved my hand. "Yeah, yeah." I said, a slight bit in annoyance. Now I know how Yami must feel about Kaiba when he keeps challenging him. "Like I said, we'll see. And I'm not going to go easy on you, understand?"
"I didn't want you to anyway." he said confidently. "Because then, winning won't mean a thing."
"Especially if you cheat." I said. "So don't cheat."
"I never cheat!"
"Well, I only remember two of our duels so I can't be sure if you've ever cheated before them."
"I swear I never cheat though!"
I gave him a smirk. Ra...was playing with peoples heads funny! Oh...that's not very nice Sarah. But he is a rival, so why not?
"Now I'm beginning to trust Eric even less..." said Yami, giving the maroon eyed an intense glare.
Eric glared at him back and I prayed, silently wishing they didn't start another glare war. "I don't cheat, all right? I duel honourably. I know cheating is never the answer to anything."
I gave him a guilty frown. I felt bad for misleading his characteristics now. "Gosh, I'm sorry, Eric." I said solemnly. "I didn't mean for Yami to start taking my teasing so seriously."
Yami blinked at me momentarily. "You were only teasing?" he asked.
I sweat dropped shamefully. "Y-yeah. I didn't mean for it to get out of hand though..." I never knew a small tease could do that. Ugh...Joey ad Tristan, you bakas. You taught me something bad. XD
Eric's glare disappeared and what replaced it was a soft smile. "It's fine." he said. "Teasing each other is pretty fun, I'll have to admit. As long as we know we're teasing, that is."
"Hey, speaking of cheaters..." Mai stared off into the distance at a group of people scattered around a bench and the stairs to a building right to us. "Do you guys see who I see?"
With curiosity now replacing our features, Eric, Yami, and I looked to where Mai was indicating. Indeed, when we saw them, we too thought of the word 'cheater'. Or something relatively close to it.
Two boys were standing on the stairs. One had a blue beetle haircut and round golden glasses, while the other had long brown hair hidden under a red cap. Though they didn't know we were there, they still held smirks on their faces like they knew they were going to rise to the top.
I gave them a disgusted look. "I can't believe it. Are Weevil and Rex in the tournament, too?" It was really them, no question about it. I was seeing them with my own eyes. The two people Yugi and Joey had went up against at Duelist Kingdom. Rex was all right sometimes...but it was Weevil I utterly despised.
Eric nodded uneasily. "I guess so." he said to me. "They are here after all."
"Kaiba must have sent them an invitation." said Yami, moving to where I was so he could get a better view. His arm brushed against mine momentarily which made me blush and shiver at the same time. OK...that was weird... "Though why, the reason eludes me."
I nodded quickly with the blush still on my face. "Y-yeah. I mean, they're total jerks. Well...Weevil is anyway. He's the one who threw your Exodia cards into the ocean when we were headed for Duelist Kingdom. He claimed that that was his strategy to beat the beast. What a coward..."
"You're absolutely right, Sarah." said Mai. "He should get stomped on for being such a bug and bother."
Eric suppressed laughter from Mai's comment. "That's a very bad pun." he said with a crooked smile. "You know, because he's a bug duelist and you said he should get stomped on...normally what people do to bugs...?"
I blinked at Eric along with the other two. "Oh! I get it now!" I said with sarcasm edged into my voice. He gave me a glare.
"Well hello, he's here too?" Now everyone's eyes turned to Mai, who was looking in a different direction this time. Her eyes were cast onto a group of people near a lamp post who were just about to take off down the street.
I raised a brow at the group, wondering why they caught Mai's attention. Every member ranged in height, but what was similar in all of them were their aqua coloured hair. "Who are they?" I asked.
"The oldest brother out of the family is Espa Roba." she said. "People say he duels using ESP, but I've never actually seen him duel. And the rest of them might be his brothers."
"Hunh..." I said thoughtfully. Can this guy really use psychic abilities? It seems unreal and most likely not to happen, but then again, who are we to judge? Now where have I heard this before...I'm sure I did because it seems all too familiar too...maybe I even saw it...
"That's very interesting. But I don't even want to go near him, just in case." Though when Mai said the word 'brothers', a sudden ache of loneliness entered my heart and I felt my chest clench uncomfortably. Gosh, I wish it would stop. I always grow weaker this way. Every time some sort of pain happens, from anything at all, my heart feels like it's holding another ounce of burden and its structure crumples under the weight. That's how I feel weaker. I guess I never really thought about it until now, but the more my heart carries, the less time is left until it completely wears out.
I just hope it doesn't wear out at all. Then I couldn't be Yami's Guardian. The thought of Bakura came into my mind again, and then this tournament that supposedly holds the answers to our questions. I can't give up now. Not when we have a lead. That empty...void in my heart that's leftover from my family's death won't be the base for my weakening heart. I have to keep surging forward and stay determined to be Yami's Guardian. Or else my heart will weaken even faster. It's the only way my heart can't wear out; with the thought of Yami and my duty as his Guardian in my mind.
Mai nodded, just when I finished my apprehending. "It might be a hoax just to scare people." she suggested. "It might not even be true. And from how I see it, he's been invited into this tournament because he's good. So he might be a fine opponent."
Eric shrugged. "He might." he said. "Might is the emphasis."
"We didn't think you were a good duelist when you challenged Sarah in Duelist Kingdom." commented Yami with his arms crossed in defiance. "And you proved us right when she defeated you. Espa could be the same story. Or...he could be an actual opponent worth fighting against." Oh, ouch! That must have hurt Eric...
Eric gave him a glare. "Oh please." he said with a scoff. "I could have beaten her just as easily as she had beaten me. But it was our first duel after that tournament she got amnesia from and I didn't want to show her all my skills in case I would overwhelm her."
My hands clenched into fists. "Overwhelm me?" I said, cocking an eyebrow. "Do you honestly believe that you could have done any better than what you showed me for our two duels?"
Eric gave me a smirk. Something told me he liked this rivalry bit between us that's beginning to grow. I suppose it sets everything off to make it dramatic. And it could change our schedules unexpectedly which could be interesting twists. Yeah...I couldn't imagine him as my friend anyway. There were just...too many obstacles I guess we could call it. Especially after what he did at Duelist Kingdom. Hek, I don't even know why I talk with the guy!
It's because he apologized. I thought. He said he was sorry and only people with hearts can actually be truthful about their amends. What I witnessed in Eric's eyes when he said his apology, was the truth. Is that why I'm not running away from him? Or telling him to go away?
I believe it is. He had meant his apology and maybe—just maybe—we could have some sort of friendship. This rivalry thing, a lot like what Yami and Kaiba have, might be just what's needed.
"I believe I can show you better skill then those two duels." he said, keeping the smirk on his face intact. "And I can show it—no...I WILL show it in this tournament. So you'd better think twice about playing any card in our duel when we next meet, because I'm going to give it all I got and defeat you!"
I replied to his threat with a smirk of my own. "Good luck." I said. "Because you're gonna need it. You aren't going to take me down easily."
He was about to say something, but faltered quickly and just kept his smirk implanted. "Then it's a war in duel." he said. Then he gave me a short bow of his head and turned around like he was about to go.
"And the next time we meet, we'll be on the opposite sides of a duel field."
I wanted to give him a thumbs up, to tell him that I accepted his challenge, but his back was turned so I could only speak. "Sounds good to me." I said. "So, you're heading off?"
He gave me a nod, although all I could see was his orange spiked head move up and down. It seemed a bit hesitant, and I missed the thoughtful smile his smirk had turned into. "...for now." he said. "I'll see you later, Sarah."
My smirk melted into a soft smile, though he couldn't see it. "Alright. See ya."
Before he took a step to go though, he turned his head to look over his shoulder momentarily, as he stuffed his hands into the pockets of his hoodie, just to throw Yami a flashy smile. "And I suppose I'll have to say the same to you too, Yugi?"
Yami gave him a glare, wondering at the same time if Eric tried anything when he wasn't watching. Which could have been hard since he never let down his guard. "I'm not sure." he admitted. "I'm still not very fond of you for what you did." Wow...Yami's tough to impress. I thought he would at least consider Eric OK after I said he had apologized and that I had accepted his apology...but I suppose he was still uneasy about it all. And definitely not convinced.
Eric nodded silently, understanding that his mistake had actually caused a lot more damage to some people. "OK." he said simply. "See ya later, Mai, Sarah, Yugi. Maybe...things would change down the road." Then he left, walking with this slightly natural slide in his stride, like he was some hot rapper from MuchMusic, through Domino Square and onto the sidewalk, leading him into the night and from out of our view.
"It seems like he really likes you, Sarah." said Mai wonderingly, watching him go before he disappeared. "And he is pretty cute if you think about it."
I just gave her a shy smile, to which for some reason Yami was suddenly a little tense about. "I suppose..." I said with a small shrug. "But...I've never had a thought about boys the way other people might. I have...a lot more things on my mind." Plus, what is it that I'm going to do? Relationships weren't familiar to me. Come to think of it, I've never even thought about them before. Not even back in Ancient Egypt. Back then, all I had on my mind before my family's disappearance was my family, and then after their disappearance my mind was focused on being Yami's Guardian. I had no time to look at boys in general the way I've seen girls do at times. I don't think I'll ever get the chance to; what with the tournament starting and Yami and I having to deal with Bakura. (haha...they dun no about the NEW evil yet...clueless OC...xDD Just kidding. xD)I can't get off track.
And in addition...who'd like me anyways? Eric I know does...but do I really feel...special around him? Like my own person? I'm pretty sure in relationships like these, the person you're with has to make you feel like you're special. Not with gifts or expenses or stuff like that, but just with their presence. Both individuals enjoy the other's presence, the other's care, and they feel comfortable around each other. Do I feel the same way with a guy right now?
Not at the moment. So maybe I shouldn't even bother.
I momentarily frowned at my own thoughts, feeling my heart drop a little. Of course every person wants to have that special someone around them when they find them, but the thought of me not bothering to try and find them hurts. It's so confusing, I don't even want to think about it anymore. My time will come. Er...I think.
I have bigger problems. Like trying to enter this tournament.
Mai gave me a thoughtful shrug. "Alright." she said. "But when you find that special someone, let me know. I'll help in some ways or another."
I smiled gratefully. "Thanks." I said. "I'll make sure you're one of the first people I call."
She gave me a known wink, like she was telling would arrive, but in time. "Good. Now I suppose I should be off. It's three hours to midnight and I need sleep."
"That sounds like a great idea." said Yami, who had moved a little ways away just to look around. I wonder what was up. He had this suspicious look in his eyes, telling me that he didn't like something. But Mai and I were just talking after Eric had left. What bad could've happened to make his guard shoot up ten times?
"And if we want to make sure we get a spot in this tournament, we'll have to sign up earlier than using the end of the week as a deadline."
"Yami has a point." I agreed. "Procrastinating isn't the best way to complete anything, let alone start it."
Mai nodded, impressed by the way both of us worked so well together. Well, after years of coming up with battle strategies and fighting alongside each other, I suppose we are some sort of a team. "Nice plan you two." she said with a smile. Then she took a quick glance at the clock standing in the middle of the Square. "I have to run now, before it gets any later. So, I'll see you guys in the tournament?"
I gave her a thumbs up and Yami nodded. "Definitely." I said. "Good luck for when you sign up."
"Right back at you." After her farewell, she walked off, a waver of her perfume staying in her place. I watched her disappear off the sidewalk before releasing a sigh.
"I think this tournament is going to be past interesting." I said to Yami with a sweat drop. "With Eric, Mai, and past competitors mixed in with new ones, it's going to be...VERY interesting..." I mentally kicked myself for not coming up with a better word for the situation.
Yami's narrow crimson eyes were watching me carefully, but I had the distinct feeling that he was looking over my shoulder. "Mm." he nodded with a slight bow of his head. "You're right."
Something didn't seem right. Even before, when Yami was a little ways away while Mai and I were talking, he seemed a bit cautious. Like he saw something and his guard shot up even more. And there was something in his eyes...a darkened and strange sense...like what he found suspicious was something dark.
"Hey, are you all right?" I asked worriedly, touching his arm in concern. I didn't know why, but it sent shivers down my spine. "You seem...distant. Is what Eric said bothering you?"
After the glaring war they had, you couldn't blame me for thinking that way. But Yami just shook his head, his crossed arms laying against his chest, and his eyes slowly decreasing the caution; though there was still some suspicion tinting the edges of his iris. Or hidden deep within it.
"I'm fine." he said. "I just sensed a dark aura when you were talking with Mai. It sounded strangely like an evil chuckle..."
I swallowed nervously. Evil chuckle? Who in the world is going to be chuckling in the middle of the Square, and at night, too? Maybe it was one of the duelists still hanging around, laughing at a friend's joke. But then why would Yami have said evil?
Then, I felt it. It was like a silent but strong wave of dark aura, rushing at the both of us like a wind. It felt sinister, and ultimately horrifying. I looked around to see what could have caused it, but all I heard was this dark laughter, echoing off the sides of the buildings. Yami bumped his back against mine trying to look around too. So he had heard someone chuckling...
But who could it be? I don't see anyone...
"Did you hear that?" asked Yami, casting me a look over his shoulder.
I nodded and strained my ears to hear any further. My brow creased forward in an attempt to concentrate. But I could no longer hear the deep cackling, or feel the rush of darkness. It was here for a moment, but then disappeared, leaving without a trace. No one else seemed to have heard or felt anything strange. Was it only targeted to us?
"Mm...yes." I said, retreating from my battle stance to stand back straight. I always automatically go into battle stance whenever something mysterious or weird is around. It doesn't include me holding up my fists or anything, that's only necessary when I actually see the enemy, but I lock my knees in place and stay still, trying to find the source of the evil so I could eliminate it. At the moment, I couldn't find out where it had come from. "Do you suppose it was Bakura? The sense wasn't anything familiar to me but you never know."
Yami shook his head and turned to face me, the look of caution never leaving his face. "I haven't an idea." he said. Then he took one last quick look around before meeting my gaze. "I'm slightly sure it wasn't him though. He wouldn't have been cackling like that voice was. He would've been here in front of us, demanding for the Millennium Puzzle and your Millennium Locket. Remember Sarah, he's not only after my power now; he's also after yours."
I became frustrated. My lips pursed and I crossed my arms. "I don't know why he would come after me." I muttered. "I don't hold any kind of power. Except, say for the magic I know. You know, to control the four elements and to heal. Shields are one of my spells, I know, but it's an air spell, so it doesn't count separately. And I know fighting. But all of it put together doesn't compare to your power, so I don't get that part."
Yami opened his mouth to say something but ended up rethinking about it. "Like Ishizu said, we have to enter the tournament to find the answers to questions like the one you have. We should head back home. I don't have a good feeling about that dark energy. The person it belongs to might decide to come back."
I sighed, thinking he was right. "Alright." I nodded. "Let's go. Which house should we go to first? Yugi's?"
"I think I should drop you off at your place first." said Yami through a stern composure, though I could tell he was having the tiniest bit of trouble, because I saw tints of red appearing and then disappearing on and off his cheeks in a pattern. "In case we run into any...problems."
"I have ways to knock people out, Yami. I'll be fine dropping you off first then going to my house." I countered, but a small smile pulled at my lips. "You don't...have to worry about me...if that's what's bothering you."
Yami's blush momentarily showed itself before he forced it to go away and stop pestering him. "I think it's best if we go to your place first. Come on, let's go." He started walking towards the sidewalk that headed out of Domino Square before looking over his shoulder to see if I was following him or not.
I blinked at him curiously. Why would he be concerned? Was it that friend-protectiveness again? Maybe he thought I'd run into Eric along the road home, so he decided to tag along. Or it could've been his original reason about the dark aura we sensed a moment ago.
Well...whatever the reason, I'll have to admit one thing. I didn't mind if he came along. It was nice of him, first of all, and it was a great way just to hang about some more. Even if it was just to drop me off. I gave him a smile and ran over to catch up, the both of us stuffing our hands into our pockets and surging forward.
The dark sky above was like its own realm if you compared it to the streets we were walking through. It was black except for the minor twinkling of stars here and there, and the roads Yami and I walked along were flooded with the spotlights of streetlamps. The hazy white-yellow light they cast showed our way down the sidewalk. Our footwear clicked quietly on the pavement and our steps almost matched. The houses didn't have any lights on in them and everything was quiet, except for some critter noises in in trees or in backyards.
"So you said you took a nap before you came here?" asked Yami after a moment of silence. It was only a few minutes ago we left Domino Square, but even in that time, Yami hadn't once let down his guard. I kept mine up too, in case someone did decide to jump us or something.
I nodded and kept my eyes forward, just breathing in the fresh air. "Yup." I said, not willing to remember my nightmare but found it playing in my head anyway. Then I recalled Yami saying he had overslept and almost got to the Square late, like what would've happened to me had I not read my clock in time.
"So...did you take a nap too? You said something about it when I met Eric."
Yami's face momentarily darkened, making me a little edgy. Had I said something wrong? Or did something bad happen that he didn't want to talk about? My stomach rolled uncomfortably, and I wondered what I should say next.
"Er...I'm sorry. I shouldn't have asked—"
"Oh, no. It wasn't that, Sarah." I finally looked over at him to find his eyes narrowed in slight confusion, like what he was thinking didn't make any sense. The streets became even more quieter and all I could hear was the rhythmic padding of my sneakers and the click of Yami's boots.
"It was the dream I had that's troubling me." My heart thumped awkwardly and I felt something pulling at the edge of my mind, like it was an annoying reminder about something. For some reason, I had a thought that Yami had seen the same dream I had. But why would he? It sounded so far fetched. Not only did he have any memories of his ancient past, but he shouldn't be able to get any dreams of it either. It just didn't make any sense.
"Do you want to talk about it?" I asked him. "Maybe if we brainstorm ideas together, we can find out what it means. That way you don't have to think about it alone and stress over it so much."
Yami gave her a thoughtful look. Should I tell her? he wondered. Should I tell her how confused I am about the dream? I've never had one like it before. Come to think of it, I've never had a dream about anything relatively close to one like it before Sarah told me who she was. It started tonight.
Just what was going on? Was Sarah's confession the trigger to something? Say these dreams? What if it had something to do with our powers Ishizu spoke of? It was all so confusing. And maybe Sarah's right. If I keep it bottled up inside, all I will do is create more stress to the amount I already have. Then I won't get anything straightened out. But if we talk about it...maybe we can come to a conclusion together.
"Alright." he said. The unsettling wall between both fell and Yami felt a little more at ease. He felt comfortable talking to Sarah; it was like it came naturally. Maybe it had something to do with them being friends back in Ancient Egypt. No, he knows it had something to do with them being friends back in Ancient Egypt. Otherwise, he would've been talking with only Yugi of his past and feelings.
He ends up talking to both Yugi and Sarah. Yugi was his other half, his light, so it was easy to talk to him about everything. But Sarah...at first he thought she was just another one of Yugi's friends; one that happened to have a Millennium Item. But he now knows that not only is she Yugi's newest friend, but Yami's old one.
Patiently, Sarah waited for Yami to start explaining. Yami silently breathed in a deep breath and tried to steady his mind from all other thoughts, so he could tell Sarah everything he could from his dream.
"I'm sure it was taken place back in Ancient Egypt." the Pharaoh began, carefully choosing his words so he doesn't leave out any details. "I can tell because of the stone walls in the background. There was a battle raging on near the palace gates and everyone was fighting. During the whole dream, the edges of my dream was tinted red, as if to symbolize all the blood that was poured that day. It was supposed to be frightening. I felt my bones shaking but I never showed my fear.
"I saw myself riding on a horse, knocking some enemies out of the way with a blade. There was a group of people by my side wearing these cloaks, and I got the distinct feeling that they were priests and priestesses. The soldiers were wearing simple linen kilts. At least...I had the feeling they were...It seems like I know what things are or who people are with this strange yet familiar feeling. I know I've met the priests and priestesses before. I can feel it in my soul.
"Then, all of a sudden, one man stood above all the rest, and I heard him shout something to do with claiming the River Nile. I heard myself yell out in opposition; telling the man that it wasn't right for him to claim the River Nile, let alone fight for it.
"Then he drew back an arrow on his bow...and let it go. I saw a menacing smirk on the man's face and realized that the arrow was heading for me. For the moment, my character was occupied by another man trying to push me off my steed. So with a jolt of the sword in my hand, I threw him to the ground. When I finally looked up back to the man with the bow, the arrow was already a metre away from me. I thought I was dead.
"Then something shimmering gold blocked my view, and I never felt the arrow hit. The attack never came, but whatever flew into me knocked me over, sending the both of us onto the ground. My horse trotted away. But that was the least of my problems.
"What happened to the hit that I was supposed to receive? Since I never got it, where did it go? I opened my eyes to find myself on the ground, sand and rocks dusting me all over. I climbed onto my hands and knees and immediately looked for the person who flew into me. The streak of gold that had momentarily blinded me before I was knocked over still clouded my eyes, and I found what it belonged to laying not far from where I was. Not what, sorry. ...who... They were lying there near unconsciousness.
"With an arrow sticking through their golden plated armour.
"The enemies ran at the sight of their fallen leader, leaving our side to cheer. But then the group of priests, priestesses, and soldiers hurried to our side, wondering if we were all right. One of the priestesses removed the other one's helmet and who's face I saw almost made me choke."
Yami turned to face me, evident realization in his eyes. I had grown awfully quiet, and I was so sure my face was pale and my heart was in my throat.
"Sarah, it was you." said Yami, and I swear I heard his voice shake the slightest bit. "I saw you, bleeding to death in front of me. Tell me that wasn't true!"
I drew in a quaky breath, afraid to meet his gaze. "What's there to lie about anyway?" I muttered. "It's me and you know it. I had the same dream too, Yami, before we met up in Domino Square."
Yami's mouth parted slightly. "You did? Then you know know what I'm talking about..."
"Yes." I nodded unsteadily, feeling a bit queasy when I was reminded of the blood. That led to the arrow which led to the pain of not being able to breathe. "I know exactly what you're talking about it." I breathed in a sigh to keep myself from remembering the horrible pain. My abdomen throbbed, like it was hit with the arrow just yesterday. "And I knew every detail even without having to have the dream as a reminder."
Yami looked down in deep thought. "Sarah, what's the role of your Guardianship to me?"
I blinked, surprised he had asked such a random question. Or maybe it wasn't random. If you try linking it to the dream, that's almost what the whole dream talked about. You just have to think about it.
"Well, it was the sworn duty of a chosen person to keep the Pharaoh of Egypt safe." I said, as best as I could describe it. Then I looked away, murmuring the last part. "...by all means necessary."
Yami's eyes widened and he looked back up to try and meet my gaze. "So that includes risking your life, doesn't it?"
I met his eyes; crimson to scarlet. "Yes." I said. "Risking my life for you is just what the dream portrayed."
Yami looked shocked. He was speechless.
"Why are you so surprised?" I asked him with a raised eyebrow. "It's my duty as your Guardian. You should be glad I'm living up to those standards."
"Sarah, it's not about the standards." argued Yami. I don't know what he was getting so worked over. Wasn't I doing my job as his Guardian? "It's about letting my friends risk their life for me. It's unreasonable!"
I stopped walking, making Yami halt too. My eyes were still, trying to make those words play over and over in my head. "You...you don't want me to be your shield?" I asked quietly. I didn't even think he heard me.
Yami shook his head. "No," he said. "I don't. From the dream I had not a couple hours ago, I learned just the lengths you would go to. You almost lost your life when you took the arrow for me. I...I almost lost a friend."
His eyes softened incredibly and he shook his head discouragingly. "From the dream, I also felt a connection. An invisible string that linked us together. I now realize that it must have been how strong our friendship was back in Ancient Egypt. I understand now that you were one of my closest friends and if you had died that day..."
His voice quietened and his breath wavered. I watched in fascination. He was getting to the point of remembering me in this modern day Prophecy. He was going to remember a part of his past.
My heart leaped. I wanted him to continue. I wanted to see how much he could understand and remember. The connection was a big part of it; with it having to do with the Oath's Seal and what not. (You shall find out what that is in later chapters. Muahaha. ^^') I've waited a really long time just to see what he would remember of me.
"...I would've been devastated." he finished finally, realizing how much he's been missing. He locked his eyes with mine, feeling this invisible pull beginning to thread between him and me. His heart seemed to beat a little more livelier and his thoughts rained on about Sarah. (No everyone. Not love wise. -^^-) All he could see was her for a good moment or two before his mind cleared and he saw her standing before him. He blinked his eyes to clear his head and saw me standing their with a thoughtful smile.
"...and how do you think I would've felt if it was you who got hit with the arrow instead of me?" I asked him softly, touching his arm carefully.
Yami didn't know what to say, but he had a thought for now. "Would you have felt the same as how I would've felt?" he answered with a question of his own, but not to challenge.
I gave him a nod. "That's right." I said. "I would have felt devastated too. And I wouldn't have been doing my job properly if I let you get hit in the first place. You have to understand, Yami, that I was trained for this sort of stuff; fighting, and injuries, and how to maintain both. You were only raised to be Pharaoh. Cunning, brave, courageous, determined, and assertive. I was raised to Guard you.
"But...during that time, we became really good friends. We would hang around in the palace gardens, come up with or update battle strategies for any battles that might come up, and just enjoy each other's presence like friends would. But when you lost your memory..."
I sighed, feeling myself grow mentally tired. All that stress of having to deal with being Yami's Guardian, Yami losing his memory about me, and the thought of the Prophecy was so much to think about, my head always felt heavier. Whenever I start reflecting on them, it both hurts and is tiring to think of all the time. Like the hour at the museum earlier this day. I talk about my family, I begin to feel hurt.
Why do I feel hurt anyway? Was it natural instincts? It just...hurts to think of my family gone. Because the only people I had ever loved, before Ishizu took me in as her own, passed away. It was like ripping half my heart out and throwing it somewhere to let it shrivel to dust. There's been that horrible void in me for years and years and it's still there.
It's the same when Yami lost his memory.
My heart was ripped at again and thrown away.
I didn't know I started rubbing at my collarbone with a pained look on my face, like I had heart burn or something. Yami immediately looked concern.
"...when I lost my memory...it was like you lost someone again, wasn't it..." he said.
"That's exactly how I felt." I said. "It wasn't easy accepting so much pain for one life time but...somehow I've endured it all. And now I'm here by your side again, 5,000 years later. It's great to see you, Yami."
Though with the sad and troubled atmosphere we created, he displayed a small smile. "I might not remember anything from our past," he said. "or how close we actually were, but I say the same. It's great to see you too, Sarah."
"Now you understand, right? It's my duty to protect you with my life so don't push me out of the way if I try taking another arrow this time."
Yami's smile stayed on his face, but he still didn't think it was a good idea if Sarah took such dangerous hits. Maybe things would change along the road. But overall, Yami wished there would be no dangers whatsoever. That way, no one would have to worry about anything bad happening to anyone. With Sarah trying to lighten the mood just now, he couldn't help to smile.
"I understand." he said.
Suddenly, a cold gust of wind blew in from the other end of the street. It was sharp and so sudden in the still night it sent shivers down my spine. I felt Yami's arm brush against mine as he turned around to see where it had come from. His skin was cold and I could feel my own begin to drop in temperature. We looked around hastily, but couldn't find anything out of the ordinary. I automatically went to battle stance.
"Did you feel that?" I asked Yami, quietly.
He nodded and his eyes narrowed to try and look through the partial darkness surrounding the middle of the street. "I did." he said. "Be on your guard. That wind didn't feel right."
Just as we were about to scan the area, a dark cloud of shadow began to form in the middle of the road. It was shimmering with a deep purple and black, not to mention it looks ultimately mysterious. It was then I raised my fists, ready for a fight.
A figure, wearing a black cloak appeared from within the shadows. They held the same dark aura we felt back at Domino Square. Not only was their hood up to conceal their face, but the person held a sword by their side; a long blade which was glistening against the moonlight.
"Now then," said the mysterious person, holding the blade at exactly the right angle to let it shine blindingly in our eyes. "Time to get what we came for."
Author's Note: *hits herself over the head with a frying pan* I'm so sorry for updating after three weeks. I was stuck with an exam to study for and a bunch of tests and projects. =.= I truly am sorry. But I still hope you like this chapter! ^^ And wow...who's the mysterious person? lol. You're gonna see Sarah and her amazing fighting skills in the next chapter. ^^' Have a good day everyone! xD