Author's Note: Ah~ The sweet freedom of an iPod Touch. *smirks* Read stories all day long on my birthday present... Muahahaha! xD lol. Ahem, sorry about that. But lately...I'm in a very good mood. xD That is why I have begun to type out the rough draft of my story the day after I posted up the last chapter.
But time comes when it'll be two weeks and I've finally updated... x'D
Hopefully...that won't happen. I am determined to get through Battle City with as much detail as I can put together, suspense, tension, love-*panned* (Maybe... x'D), bond, and evil. O_O xD I sound like such a lunatic right now...
Enjoy the chapter! ^^ It officially marks the beginning of the tournament! *claps and hands out cookies to all readers in celebration* ^^'
In this chapter, Sarah reflects on the mysterious card Ishizu had sent her a while ago, Yami and Yugi discuss about the Fate of the ancient spirit and his just as ancient friend, and the beginning of the tournament is here with a lot more questions just waiting to be answered. ...suspension?...I think—Maybe. XDD lol. But I hope you enjoy this chapter. Thanks for reading! ^^'
Disclaimer!: Fanfiction, and I do NOT get any money out of it either. Thanks. ^^
Battle City-New Evil Emerges, Old Friends Reunite Chapter 19
I thought the gang had taken my confession pretty well. For the second time in this modern lifetime, I was expecting them to be angry, because I had kept such an incredibly large secret from them. Instead, they accepted it—and me. They realized from the beginning that I wasn't telling them something, and had thought that I would tell them whatever it was when I thought the time was right. Now, not only do they know who I am, but they also know that I am linked to the spirit of the Millennium Puzzle. Yugi and I had also talked about the tournament—in more detail—and what we were going to do. We came to the conclusion that we'd all try our best, to encourage each other and win every duel. And hopefully then we'll get the answers to the powers Ishizu had spoke of.
Well, today was the first day of the tournament. Finally, it about took a while. Back at the hospital yesterday morning, we planned a rendezvous in downtown Domino—the part of the city Kaiba is hosting his tournament in. And what a great day it was to start. The sun was shining brightly and the blue skies stretch all the way to the horizon. It contrasted nicely with the green grass and trees. Everything sparkled, and it made me feel energized to think it was a glorious day outside—and on the first day of the tournament as well.
In my room, with the curtains completely open to let the sun's rays flood the place, I was unpacking the Duel Disk I picked up from the registration office, though when I remembered the double-crossing man who had given it to me I almost growled. I removed the plastic covering and held the sleek device between my fingers. It looked pretty impressive the way Kaiba was wearing it the night he invited us to Domino Square, but I never thought I'd hold something as advanced in technology as this. Priest Seto's reincarnation was indeed a powerful and intelligent man in the modern world. He's the CEO of a major gaming corporation!
It's time. I thought, gazing perplexed at the Duel Disk in my hands. Once I put this on, I'm accepting whatever is in store in this tournament. There will be no turning back—now or ever. I'm going to have to go through everything those Rare Hunters will try. And even Bakura...if he decides to show up and start terrorizing again.
I slipped my left arm into the thick, grey band, just as the image of Kaiba wearing it that night came into mind. The hard and smooth material ran coldly past my hand and wrist coming to rest below my elbow where I locked it into place. The band tightened securely around my limb, and when it did, I heard a faint click. Then the arrows on each slot shimmered with rainbow colours, following each other from one side of the board to the other. I'm guessing it reset, just to tell me it's ready to be used.
I held my arm up, just to catch the Duel Disk shine under the sunlight, then tried turning my arm around to see how it looked. It fit perfectly and comfortably, and I almost felt smarter for holding—well, wearing in this case—the latest in technology. With a satisfied smile, I clasped my thigh sheathe around my right leg, making sure at the same time that my deck was inside it. Then I pocketed my cell phone and wallet. I looked at the Duel Disk, now a peculiar weight on my arm, and gave it another thoughtful look,
No turning back now. The words echoed throughout my mind. I clenched my hand and went to open the front door, letting a cool breeze of fresh air rush past, rustling through my hair.
I wasn't going to back down anyway. There's too much this tournament can help me with. And besides, if Yugi and Yami are entering—now even Joey—then of course I wasn't going to let them go in this alone. And I already put the Duel Disk on my arm, reminding me of the promise to not back down. Knowing full well what I was doing.
This tournament will hold the answers to our questions—I know it will. But if those cloaked idiots of Rare Hunters come back to finish what they've decided to start with us, then not only will we have to be careful with ourselves, but also of our information. We can't trust any outsider we have never met before until we know for sure we can trust them.
On the walk to Domino Square, I couldn't help but wonder about the Oath's Seal and how it sent me Joey's essence instead of the Pharaoh's. That was beyond confusion. It was only tied to the Pharaoh by invisible threads...not anyone else...
Hmm...maybe it was some sort of...malfunction? I shook my head, shoving my hands into my shorts' pockets. No, that can't be. The spell was powerful and accurate. It couldn't have been misused. Master Mahad had done everything correctly, and he even used the spell bounded knife needed to carve the loop...
Every time I look in the mirror and see the mark now, I was reminded of why this particular shape was used. It's because the outline of a circle represents never ending trust. The way someone draws a circle; it curves and never stops. Therefore, it's never ending. To show the lengths I would go to, this circle was used to represent my never ending loyalty to Yami.
I remember how it was Isis' idea. She proposed that the mark should look like a loop of rope (or the outline of a circle) to the Pharaoh and his Court. They found the idea appropriate and I was given the Seal the day after I graduated.
But that still doesn't explain why I felt Joey's essence...
It was so frustrating.
Something brushed past my fingers. Curiously, I pulled the object from out of my pocket. It was the card Ishizu had given me.
Why would she give me this card? I wondered as I gazed at the picture of the Guardian who looks a lot like me. But she has the armour to make it seem like a Duel Monster. Or was it to conceal her face and leave her eyes bare? It has the circulation number and set ID as all the other Duel Monster cards Pegasus created. She must have asked him to make this card, specifically to give to me.
But...why?
I'm still so very confused.
At the irony, I smiled curiously, as I returned the card into my pocket. Ironic. It was ironic to me because the Pharaoh was the one who didn't have any memories of his past, therefore, it's only natural for him to be confused. With him being the brave and prideful person he is, he doesn't show it, but merely tries coping.
On the other hand, there's me, who was supposed to help the Pharaoh in his predicament. In order for me to do that, I needed information, or knowledge, on everything that has anything to do with us and Ancient Egypt. But the irony was that even with the majority of the knowledge already in my brain, there were still some things that I didn't know.
Like how the card will come into play with our lives.
"Put a bit of your soul into the card. That way, when he plays this card, you're by his side no matter where you are."
No matter where I am...
But...I already had the Oath's Seal to guide me to the Pharaoh if somehow we're at different distances. I thought, furrowing my brows in slight agitation. Then again, Ishizu has the Millennium Necklace, just like Isis did back in Ancient Egypt. She could have seen something predicted for me in the future. Could it be that I might never be able to reach the Pharaoh in time in one particular moment? Is that why she gave me the card?
The card brushed past my fingers once again as I sighed and saw Domino Square coming into view. The start of the tournament...the tournament that supposedly holds all our answers...was right there, merely paces away. If the part this card plays is really important, then it will definitely come into play here.
I'll keep it on me at all times. Just in case. Maybe I'll figure out the meaning behind Ishizu's words after a while into the tournament. Hopefully, I won't find out too late.
Yugi placed the completed deck of Duel Monster cards onto his desktop before giving it a contented smile. Sunlight burned through his bedroom curtains, producing a comfortable warmth over the carpet and bedsheets. His room was bright without having the need to turn on any lights. With his tight jeans belted on and his black sleeveless shirt on, Yugi stood tall and determined, satisfied with the way their deck came out.
"We've created a powerful deck," commented Yami in his ghost form as he stood next to Yugi.
Yugi gave his dark a light shrug, but the smile he had on his face was thoughtful now. "Yes, but I'm worried that it won't be good enough," he said.
"There comes a time when all you can do is trust in your cards," said Yami. "This is a different challenge than we have ever faced before."
Yugi nodded, determinedly glancing up at Yami. "So we'll have to use every ounce of strength between us to meet this challenge," he said confidently. "Your game isn't over, Yami. I think it's only beginning."
With a thoughtful nod, Yami said, "You may be right, Aibou. According to Ishizu, this tournament will answer Sarah's and my questions." At the name of the Guardian, his voice almost faltered, but he held it steady.
Yugi didn't notice. Or he chose not to. Whatever the Pharaoh was thinking had to be personal. "I'm really glad Téa and Sarah gave us those cards as gifts," he said, referring to the time both their friends had bought the packages of cards for all the boys in their group. "They came in real handy. And I'm pretty sure our deck is stronger because of them."
The Pharaoh's spirit nodded, also remembering the girls' smiling faces as they had given them. "Yes, it was quite thoughtful," he said sturdily. Then his train of thoughts changed, and his cerise eyes flickered uncertainly, yet never dislocating his sense of superiority. "but Sarah being a part of my past is quite unbelievable, I might say. I never expected I would have a Guardian. And one so devoted."
Yugi slowly nodded, fully understanding the meaning behind Yami's words. "You don't really think she would give her life for an attack though, do you?" he asks the spirit cautiously. His usually shimmering amethyst eyes now darkened a little bit by curiosity and concern. "Certainly she doesn't...talk about her life like it doesn't mean anything but a shield?"
The ancient spirit shifted uncomfortably, just as troubled by his ancient friend's actions and the way she always talks like her life is something to be dismissed. "I'm not sure," he said with a slight frown. "But it is obvious in some ways that it can be taken true."
"Right...when the two of you were going to her house to take care of that wound," said Yugi, recalling the incident that had occurred in the dead of night. The way Sarah had described it yesterday morning at the hospital had been horrifying. All that blood lost only so she wouldn't let that cloaked figure near the Pharaoh... "She talked about how the scar she will receive now from that hit will just be another one; like it wasn't such a big deal."
Yami nodded. "Yes," he said. "And the time before, when I discussed with her about the dream I had. The one that we ended up witnessing together."
Yugi slowly nodded again, remembering the troubled feeling the ancient Pharaoh had at the time, though he doesn't always show it physically. "Maybe she does value her life as little as we think," he murmured quietly. "Why would she though? Well, other than the fact that she thinks she can't go back to her normal life again after her family had...passed on."
He noticed the Pharaoh gazing emotionlessly out the window, letting his handsome face bask in the warm rays of the sunlight streaming through, merely thinking. "As I said not a few moments ago," he said, not looking away from the window. Under the golden light, his crimson eyes shined mysteriously; exotically. "She's very devoted. And because her family was deceased, she thinks her life is meaningless. Other than that, I don't believe there are any other reasons.
"But what she doesn't know is that even though her devotion and conviction are inspiring, she needs to stop treating herself as only a shield. She needs to be shown how much she is actually cared by so many different people."
Yugi nodded, a small smile starting to form on his face, as he began recalling how many people really did care about their friend. "There's the gang for sure," he said. "We all care for her like a really close friend, especially after that fire she saved you and me from, and yesterday early morning, when she helped us to find Joey. It seems like after those close calls with life, we've become a lot closer with her."
"Don't forget the woman at the museum, Ishizu," added Yami. "Sarah had said she was the reincarnation of her caretaker from Ancient Egypt, and through her is the link of Isis. Ishizu cares for Sarah as though Isis herself is caring for her."
Yugi raised a brow at his Dark curiously. "And what about you?" he asked. "Do you care for her?"
The ancient Pharaoh visibly faltered.
"Oh, come on. You're not saying that you don't, are you? Because I can tell you right now that that lie will not work."
Yami gazed at his Hikari through his normally assertive eyes. Though at the mere mention of Sarah, they grow somewhat softer, all because she was his friend from 5,000 years ago. "Of course I care for her," he said defiantly. "She said we were close, after all, and just because I am not able to remember any time we might have spent together back in Ancient Egypt, that doesn't mean that I will give up."
Yugi smiled. "That's the spirit," he said with a thumbs up. "Keep that Faith going, and soon, the two of you will be as close as ever. This tournament might be just what the two of you need."
At Yugi's words, he somehow remembered about yesterday morning, when everyone was at the hospital for Joey and his family. He recalled Sarah telling everyone everything about her that she could. Including the Oath's Seal. For some odd reason, the thought bothered him. And he was left pondering in his thoughts...
Yami nodded apprehensively, though on the inside, he was grateful for his partner's words. "Speaking of the tournament, Aibou, you haven't really pressed me for any details," he said, watching the younger pull on his school blazer. The blue contrasted nicely with the black he was already wearing.
"What's there to ask about?" he asks, straightening the back of the blazer to fit fittingly over his defined shoulder blades. "Even if there was something I don't know, I won't ever push you to answer me. I know there are so many things going around in your head that you yourself are wondering about, so I'm not going to invade your privacy. And it's enough to know that you aren't dueling for the Rare Cards Kaiba's making everyone ante-up in every duel, but for a vital reason. I won't ask or trouble you into giving me answers until you decided to tell me. I trust you—and the deck we made together."
Yami gave his partner a smile, and rare as it was, it was always dazzling. "Aibou...I can't do anything without you..."
"Hey don't forget," Yugi winked. "It was you who stood by me at Duelist Kingdom and helped me rescue my grandpa. Now, it's my turn to stand by you."
"Then it's settled," said Yami confidently to his other half, mostly because of how much devotion Yugi had himself. "In order to defeat the evil that has come back, see to it that those Rare Hunters don't try anything more, and gain answers about my past, we must enter Battle City."
With the boost of confidence, both Yami and Yugi merged into one, and Yugi gets a fierce face as he buckles on his dueling belt with his deck safely inside. The courage and determination both souls held burned stronger than ever, and now, they were ready to duel; ready to start on a whole new adventure.
"We'll do it together, mou hitori no boku."
Domino Square was sunny, both from the sun and excitement of the Battle City Tournament coursing through everyone's veins. Duelists flooded the streets, wearing the new Duel Disk Kaiba had made for the tournament on their arms. Friends and family tagged along with the competitors to watch them duel and cheer, which made the streets of Domino City even more unusually crowded. It wasn't enough to suffocate anyone though, which was odd...But everyone looked like they were enjoying themselves, and eager to start the tournament.
But what they don't know of is the evil that could be lurking around every corner...
I shook my head to clear my thoughts as I walked into the city centre plaza, staring at a clear glass card I found in one of the Duel Disk's slots. It was as big as my hand and there was what looked to be like a piece of a map in the centre with an "N" at the top for what I thought could mean "North". I wondered what it was for. Maybe Kaiba had something else planned...
In the midst of my wondering, I almost ran into a familiar clock tower. With an abrupt start, I barely missed banging my head into it. I looked up at the intricately carved design of the base of the clock. It was the same clock tower Yami and I were standing under with Mai and Eric on the night Kaiba invited us all to the introduction of his tournament. It seemed like it was a while ago, and I never really thought fully about everything that had happened that day and night. But if I had to give my opinion on it, I thought it was pretty epic. I told my friend who I was after all this time, and now, we're a team again. The void in my heart from losing him—well not technically losing him, but he was trapped into the Millennium Puzzle which seemed a lot like losing him—very slowly was beginning to disappear. My soul was being enlightened.
Drowned in my thoughts, I barely felt someone poking my shoulder to get my attention. My mind went to alert mode as I carefully turned around to see who it was. I found Yugi standing there with that kind smile on his face; the one he usually has on all the time. He was wearing his Duel Disk like he was ready to go.
"Oh, hey there Yugi," I greeted, returning the smile. "How are you this beautiful morning?"
"I feel great," he said ecstatically. "How about you? Excited to get some answers?"
I pursed my lips thoughtfully. "I don't know..." I admitted. "Should I be excited? I mean...there might be Rare Hunters all over the place being the cowards that they are. And Bakura could be anywhere, trying to plot out his next scheme..."
Yugi merely rolled his eyes at me and began murmuring something like he was thinking aloud. "You're occupied with those thoughts...the Pharaoh is distracted the same too..."
I blinked at him a little confused. "The Pharaoh?" I asked curiously, wondering if I had heard right. "Yugi, what are you talking about?"
The other sighed, thinking it was no use to hide the evident truth. "Both you and the Pharaoh seem distracted," he admitted. "You're wondering about the Rare Hunters and Bakura while the Pharaoh was wondering about the same just yesterday." Then he opened his mouth as if to say something more, but he didn't continue, merely closing his mouth and waiting for my reply on his analysis.
"What are you saying?"
"I'm saying that it isn't healthy," he said. "The both of you just need to calm down and take this in little steps. So much stress on two pairs of shoulders isn't good for you guys."
Well...I've been in the same predicament 5,000 years ago and back then I had no problem at all. I wanted to retort, but I knew he was right. Even though I could handle the stress most of the time, it actually affects me one way or another. I either end up getting tired more easily or have slow reaction times. I was beginning to get used to it when I began my training, so it wasn't as hard at the beginning.
Arguing would be useless. Yugi is the type of person who hates seeing a friend in a hurtful position. If he thinks stress isn't good for me, then I'll have to listen and try to reduce thinking. Though that might be a little stressful itself, seeing as how I'm not used to it.
"Oh, alright," I sighed. "Maybe I'll let go of some stress." Then suddenly, I remembered the morning from yesterday. The time I confessed to the gang about me. "Yugi, did Yami hear everything I said yesterday? I never got the chance to ask..."
Yugi looked a little bit unsure, like he was uncertain to answer. "Well...he did hear you," he admitted. "But he never told me his thoughts on it, so I can't be sure what he's thinking about it."
"Hm," I sighed and looked meekly around, wondering about something else we can talk about if the subject was a little uncomfortable. I know I would be too if a friend of mine decided to tell me everything about them all this time later. Yami didn't even know of the Seal. I would have told him myself if I hadn't been in such a predicament as finding Joey.
"But, I know you're getting closer to each other," offered Yugi. "At least there's more to talk about."
I shrugged lightheartedly, "I suppose you're right," I said. "How is he in general though?"
Yugi shook his head solemnly. "Like I said, he's as stressed as you are. Especially because the tournament is finally here and it's going to be so tough."
"What makes him say that?"
"I don't know," he admitted. "His reason is far beyond my knowing, but I can guess it's from the thought of Rare Hunters and Bakura. Plus he's found out about that Seal of yours."
I shifted uncomfortably. "Oh," was all I said. I think it was all I could say. The connection between us from the Seal's spell is a big deal. And it isn't something to be taken lightly. At the moment though, because it being a big deal, Yami might be pondering over it, wondering how it could work, what's it's purpose, or something completely different. "Yeah, that Seal is going to be something hard to wrap your mind around."
Yugi shrugged, his usual amethyst eyes wondering. "Are you worried about him?" he suddenly asked.
I blinked at his question. It was a bit strange—though I have no idea why.
Seeing my taken aback expression, Yugi quickly waved his hand dismissively. "Ah, never mind," he said quickly. "I shouldn't have asked."
Before I could answer, my mouth automatically closed. I don't know why I'm gawking. Was it because of my thinking? I don't ever recall worrying for him...My Guarding; I took it as a job. Could it be another way of saying that I'm worried for him? I haven't thought of it that way before...
But Yugi asked me as though it was a general question; like it had nothing to do with me being worried about Guarding him.
He was asking if I was worried about him.
I couldn't think of anything to say. Should I say yes, because I am? Or no, because I'm worried about something different? No matter how much I might want to think about it, I always know that I will be worried; for everyone's well being, including the Pharaoh's. It's simply the nature between friends.
That kind of worried, I will say yes to.
But before I could tell Yugi anything, I heard the familiar click of high heeled boots walking along the street. The sound was coming closer and closer, and before we can have time to contemplate why it was so familiar, a figure had walked right up to us.
"Hey, you two. Long time no see." It was Mai Valentine, wearing her usual ensemble of violet and white. She looked strikingly pretty under the morning sun and the Duel Disk on her arm glinted under the bright star as well.
I smiled warmly up at her. "Hey there, Mai! It's great to see you!"
Yugi smiled as well. "Hello. Are you ready for the tournament?"
Mai nodded, her usual determination already settling into her violet eyes. "Oh yeah, you bet," she said. "But I wonder who's butt I should kick first. There are a lot of duelists around that I haven't seen before. Maybe I'll duel them.
"Oh, by the way..." Something shimmered across her eyes; something I never saw in her before, but it lasted only a split second. "Where's Joey? I hear a rumour going around that he was joining the tournament. Is it true?"
Yugi nodded, though he seemed a bit unsure all of a sudden. "Yeah, he's in the tournament," he explained. "or supposed to be. I haven't seen him since yesterday."
I shrugged. "Me neither. He's probably on his way right now." The Oath's Seal wasn't hurting at all yesterday or today. Not even now as it hid beneath the collar of my white t-shirt. I mentally sighed in relief. If the Seal wasn't sending Joey's essence in pain, then it meant that he wasn't in trouble like he was yesterday morning.
But still...the whole idea of the Seal being connected to Joey was unreal. Though he wasn't in trouble now, that did not mean the link was severed, never to send me Joey's essence again. No...I can still feel the invisible thread tying Joey's heart and the Seal together. I'm still able to feel us connected. And yet, I still don't know why. Or how. Though this dilemma is confusing I wonder and hope, with all my being, that the Pharaoh is still connected.
But...is Joey being connected really a dilemma? I mean, if I hadn't woken up in time to find pain searing on my collar bone, the gang and I wouldn't have found Joey and brought him to the hospital for his sister's operation. He would've been sulking around on the beach about his loss the whole time.
Quickly, I prayed a silent thank you to the Gods. It was very fortunate we found him in time. Otherwise...who know what would've happened.
Though it was a good thing...I still want to know how it all happened. I know the why now—I think—but what about the how?
Mai looked towards the end of the street, as if she could see Joey coming this way. What she was thinking was unrecognizable, mostly because Mai was the type of girl to keep her emotions to herself whenever she wanted to.
A two second silence reigned over us. We were all thinking where Joey could be.
Just then, Weevil Underwood and Rex Raptor showed up with their game faces on. At the the sight of the bug duelist, I started glaring at him. It was an instinct I've grown into all because of that one moment Weevil used to throw Yugi's Exodia cards into the ocean on the boat to Duelist Kingdom. He was such a coward; trashing the cards so Yugi didn't have a chance to beat him. Yet, even without those cards, Yugi did defeat him—and sent him home only after his very first duel.
And when I see Rex...I think of dinosaurs. Who wouldn't? He specializes in dinosaur cards and strategies. Even though he did have the rare dragons along with his dinosaurs, it's still fact that he likes powerful cards.
I frowned. He reminded me so much of Joey's Red-Eyes Black Dragon, the card that is now in the deck of a Rare Hunter's. It was infuriating to know how that coward used the shadows as a disguise, all so he could get his hands on Joey's Red-Eyes. That card was powerful. And they wanted it. It's a shame Joey was caught in the middle of the Rare Hunters...He didn't deserve it.
(Author's Note: If you want to know why I added the above paragraph, please read the Important Note at the bottom of this chapter. Thank you. ^^)
"Oh no..." I murmured next to Yugi, as I watched them approach us. "They're coming this way..."
Yugi blinked. "Er...they don't look happy either..." he muttered back.
I shrugged, keeping my eyes fixated on Weevil's growling face as I noticed his eyes set on Yugi like he wanted a rematch. "I don't think they ever are happy unless the win," I replied.
Yugi nodded. "True."
We watched them approach—and the scene almost looked like a showdown; with a team on both sides of a line, matching each other glare for glare. Even Mai's eyes narrowed.
"I can't believe you played me for a chump back at Duelist Kingdom, Mai. I won't ever forget it," Rex tells Mai snidely. His fists were clenched and his eyes narrowed, like he was ready to duel her for revenge right then and there. "Now it's payback time! I'm not going to be looked down by you."
Weevil began directing his always constant smirk towards Yugi. I swear, it was like his smirk was implanted into his face. "And Yugi, don't think you're off the hook either," he said, his abnormally squeaky little voice as annoying as ever, just like him. "I've come a long way since Duelist Kingdom, and my new and improved deck of powerful insect cards will tear you apart!" Then he begins to chuckle, like he's some evil mastermind ready to put his plan into use.
Suddenly, Mako Tsunami, the Ocean Duelist Yugi defeated back at Duelist Kingdom, appeared from behind the two threatening boys and locked Weevil into a headlock, making the bug duelist choke on his evil sounding laughter. "Those are some big words coming from such a small guppy," he commented in his own fish language, wearing an amused smirk as Weevil tried wrenching himself from Mako's grip. "If anyone should be making any waves, it should be me, because I can actually understand how to."
Weevil managed to break out of his grasp and began to retort. Soon, the three duelists were engaged in a little battle of "Let's Threaten Each Other" and were quickly rising the tension in the air that was already created by the moment these three showed up.
Mai, Yugi, and I merely rolled our eyes at the scene they were making. We decided to ignore them and make it look like we had no idea who the three were, while trying to talk amongst ourselves and making sure their threats didn't get to our heads.
"I can't believe Weevil is in the tournament," I sighed, holding the side of my head in disbelief.
Mai nodded. "I suppose that there are some things we can never understand."
"True that."
Yugi held his hands together. "Alright, I guess we should go look for some duels," he suggested, looking like he wanted to get away from the trio behind us in case their argument got any worse. I can see why; those three are really competitive.
As if reading his mind, Mai agreed. "And when you run into Joey, say hi for me, okay?"
"You bet," I said, giving her a thumbs up. "We'll see you later. Good luck with your duels!"
She smiled, the brightness of her smile making her determined eyes shimmer. "Thanks. You too. I'll catch you guys later." The blonde turned away and began walking down the street, Before she was completely out of range, Yugi shouted out an encouragement as a sentence telling her we will certainly meet again. His voice echoed off the building walls.
"Hey, Mai! Don't rattle anyone too much!"
The blonde walking away merely rose an arm to wave back reassuringly, before disappearing around a corner.
I sighed, feeling the annoying vibes the trio of shouting duelists behind us bounce off my head. "Let's go find Joey before we decide to go do any dueling," I suggested to Yugi.
He nodded. "I was thinking the same thing," he said. "Let's go start."
"One moment. There's something I want to take care of." The moment I got the both of us a few metres away from Rex, Weevil, and Mako, I snapped my fingers—and let an earsplitting crack shatter the air, making the three jump a foot into the air before staring around them in shock and surprise at the sound, too busy trying to find what had caused the incredibly loud sound to keep arguing. Yugi and I stifled our laughter.
"You love manipulating air, huh?" smiled Yugi, able to contain his laughter.
I was struggling. "Jee...I wonder...what gave...that away..." I managed to stutter through my bits of laughter. We finally shared a laugh together and walked away from the disoriented group of duelists, including the ones who stopped to see what the three boys were staring around them for, and left them rattled to wonder what the hek just happened.
I admit it wasn't nice of me, but who said I can't be a bit devious at times? The more I hung around with Yugi and the rest of the gang, the more I felt like I was with my family, carefree and just enjoying life. When they had gone, I slowly began to realize how different I was becoming. I had become almost completely serious. Ever since I met Yugi, Téa, Joey, Tristan, and Mr. Muto, I felt like how I did when I did have my family with me. It was like they had become a part of a family I had lost.
It was a thrilling feeling to think there are people out there who do care about me. Ah~ I feel so loved~ x3
What about the Pharaoh? I don't really know...my feelings are always different around him.
I stopped thinking. Wait...different? Why are they different? Why did I say my feelings were different? Mentally sighing, and wishing that I obeyed Yugi and ditched the stress, I pushed the thought aside and replaced it with the simple answer of Yami being King. It was most likely the reason I acted a little different around him anyway. I couldn't think of anything else...
Ah...what life loves throwing at me...
Somehow, while trying to find Joey amidst all the duelists and anywhere we can think of Yugi and I managed to find ourselves walking around on the roof of a building. There were small attractions, like rides for little kids, scattered around, and families looked like they were having a blast, just enjoying the time they spend together. The sunny atmosphere showed the cheeriness in everyone's eyes.
A lone and dark feeling slowly crawled into my heart. How long has it been since I've been that young and carefree? And with my family too? Not to get distracted, I pushed the heart wrenching feeling away and tried focusing on the task at hand.
There was a wired fence caging the roof for everyone's safety. I sighed and leaned against it, looking down at all the duelists crowding the streets below. They looked so carefree as well. All unaware of a danger possibly among them.
"We've looked everywhere," sighed Yugi as he stood beside me also looking down. His eyes held question; wondering where his friend could be. "and we still couldn't find him. Where could Joey have gone? He knows that the tournament starts today."
I shrugged lazily, feeling my shoulders become heavy at the thought of the blonde not being anywhere in sight. "If it helps, the Seal isn't sending me any kind of signal," I offered Yugi, though it felt just a bit strange when I said it for Joey and not the Pharaoh like I did millennia ago. "At least he's safe."
"That does help," he said. "It lets us know that he isn't in trouble."
"It only sends me warnings if he's hurt," I said, smiling ruefully. "It doesn't tell me if he is in another kind of trouble like an argument or something like that."
Yugi lightly shrugged. "At least he's not hurt then. That would have been bad."
I nodded agreeably.
Suddenly, a giant shadow blanketed the city. Something decided to block the sun's warm rays from falling down upon my face only to replace the comforting feeling with a cold wind. All the other duelists below who I was watching, in hopes of catching a glimpse of Joey, stopped what they were doing and looked up to see what caused the unusual disturbance. The half silence now turned dead with shock.
Yugi and I looked up in confusion too.
Our eyes widened.
It was a massive airship in the shape of a giant blimp. It hovered down a piloted path, humming and whirring noises coming from its propellers and engines. Huge video screens were attached underneath, and on the side were red letters against the grey surface. They read "Duel Disk".
Without really having to think too much, I kind of realized who's blimp this could be. After all, who else other than him invented the Duel Disk? No one. He was the first to come up with it. I could tell Yugi had also noticed who this was, because he held his stance rather than become shocked.
Our suspicions were confirmed when Seto Kaiba appeared onto the video screen.
"Wow..." I sighed at the sheer size of the airship and abruptness in its appearance.
"Kaiba...he sure knows how to make an entrance," murmured Yugi agreeably under his breath. We watched on, in fascination and shock to see what the CEO had in store now.
"Greetings, duelists," his picture on the screen said with his oh-so-cool smirk on his face; the one he wears almost all the time to let everyone know of his superiority. "Welcome to Battle City, Everyone I thought good enough to enter this new tournament is now amongst you, wearing Duel Disks. These new devices invented by Kaiba Corp. is the latest in technology, and it will let you duel anywhere at any time. The whole city is your stage.
"Your Duel Disks contain a tracking chip which allows me to keep track of your duels," he continued, facing into the camera with challenging blue eyes, as the airship kept following its invisible path over the city.
"Remember that in each duel you must ante-up your rarest card, and the loser of the duel will forfeit his card to the winner. Anyone foolish enough can also challenge me, for I myself will also be a part of my tournament. I intend to win—and there's one duelist in particular I can't wait to defeat."
From the corner of my eyes, I saw Yugi glare up at him confidently. "You're on," I heard him say quietly, as he held up his determination even more.
"The twelve best duelists who survive my tournament will enter the finals, which will be held in a secret location. The clear cards you received are locator cards—six of them stacked together will reveal the location of the finals. The winner of each duel will get the loser's locator card. If you do the math, you'll need to win five duels in order to get a locator card from each one. " With a great flourish, he announces the official beginning to the tournament, setting off fireworks in the process. They showered over buildings and people, not harming a living thing as they meretriciously rained down.
"Let the tournament begin!"
We missed the cheerful aura from the street below. The beginning of the tournament meant a chance to have some fun for them, but for us, it was a whole new threat that needed to be taken care of.
For a moment there, I actually forgot why Yugi would and Kaiba exchanged silent challenges. But then, I remembered the carving we saw at the museum. The one with Kaiba and the Pharaoh battling in ancient times.
As the blimp flew away, leaving fireworks and celebration in its wake, I sighed and leaned against the wired fence again. "Right..." I murmured sadly, remembering how a loyal court member, hardworking priest, and good friend to the Pharaoh and his son...turned against us. All because of someone wanting him to be Pharaoh... "The two of you are rivals. You know, ever since the mention of the tournament went public, I noticed Kaiba giving you an especially long glare, like he's silently challenging you. I get the feeling he's organized this tournament just so he could try and beat you."
Yugi shrugged. "He could've," he said, not too thoughtfully though. "but I can't let his intimidation get to me. We're not here to win the tournament for a title, we're here to help the Pharaoh regain his memories and stop Bakura and the Rare Hunters, We can't let them get away."
I stared at the Yugi I thought I knew. He seemed more determined now than I've ever seen before. Maybe it's all because of the Pharaoh. Ever since he knew for certain there was a 5,000 year old spirit in his Millennium Puzzle, he hasn't been abnormally shy anymore...
"You seem...devoted, Yugi," I commented kindly, looking out over the city through the wired fence the same as Yugi. "I haven't seen that kind of loyalty in 5,000 years."
"I'm here for the same reason you are, Sarah," he said with a confident smile. "We're both here in the tournament to help the Pharaoh and you. There's things that need solving and memories needing to be given back."
It was like Yugi suddenly remembered something, and turning away from the fence, he looked at me. I noticed this and returned the gaze, his amethyst eyes shining hopefully.
"I've actually never thought of this before until now, now that I was speaking of memories. But I was wondering...couldn't you tell the Pharaoh's memories to him? I mean, you said you were friends. That means you must have seen almost everything he did. Maybe if you tell him about his past, like recite it as a story or something, he'll remember about his power, and Bakura won't stand a chance!"
My thoughtful stare fell and I was left frowning sadly.
I didn't want to have to go near this subject. Ever...
It's an excellent strategy... I thought merely. And how I wish it were that easy! But...unfortunately...it's not.
Yugi noticed my haunted face and watched me slowly sit down on the paved roof, over looking the city below with glassy eyes. Thoughtful, saddened, and full of crushed hope.
"I do wish it were that easy..." I said, watching all the duelists and their friends walking around, trying to get a feel of the exciting tournament air; all without the knowledge that someone with a cloak and thirsty for rare cards might be among them. It was like everyone was really happy for this tournament, while Yugi and I were living in our own little bubble of misery.
"But, Destiny had funny little ways to make things seem like how they are when really...you have to go through a year without rain."
Yugi carefully sat down beside me, thinking that I was about to tell him something important right then and there. We forgot about the tournament for a moment; the retreating blimp, which was now gone; the colourful fireworks; the happy cheers of children checking out the small playground behind us with their families; and the duelists below who were ready to duel.
Everything seemed faraway, especially when we're this high up. It was like we were away from everything; all the troubles, worry, concern. But, I know that whenever I close my eyes, it all comes back. All the thoughts of Bakura, the Rare Hunters, my past, the Pharaoh's past, OUR past, my magic, the Millennium Items, my dreams, nightmares, the current predicaments, the Prophecy, the gang, Yugi, and the Pharaoh flooded my mind with such intense heaviness in huge waves the size of mountains I'm always surprised I can keep my head up. There wasn't a sign from the Seal, so Joey wasn't in any danger to worry about. He'll soon show up for the tournament.
So many different things...and not once had I thought about how bad it could be.
Yugi's right...stress isn't good for me.
But...can I really help it?
"So, why can't it be easy to the Pharaoh of his past?" asked Yugi quietly, turning his gaze from the street below to me. A quiet wind despite all the usual city chatter blew past us, rustling through our hair and clothes like leaves.
I opened my eyes, realizing that I never even noticed them closed before. A lot of ways to answer Yugi's question came into mind, but it took me no time at all to find the easiest.
"When memories are lost, the mind won't be able to imagine them the same without experiencing them again,"I explained. "It's just how the mind works. Now, if I was to talk to Yami about his past, he won't be able to know everything about it like he did before he lost his memory. Sure, he'll try to imagine it, but he won't be able to remember every particular detail; like the emotion, the dust, minor details that could mean a lot, and especially, the even smaller details—like how he himself was feeling exactly in that memory."
"What do you mean he won't be able to guess right about his feelings?" asked Yugi curiously. His brows were slightly furrowed as he thought about everything I was telling him—and was about to tell him.
The silent wind quietly rushed into my face; swiftly and softly. It made my bangs waver in front of my eyes, obscuring my view of the city street below. With a quick but swift move of my hand I moved my bangs so their tips would rest just behind my ear. I've become so familiar of moving my hair from my eyes, the swipe came naturally. I sighed, my gaze becoming really glassy with thought.
I hate to use this as a model, but I can't seem to think of anything else at the moment. I sighed inwardly too, feeling my heart beginning to ache. This thought always haunted me, ever since I can remember. But I've never fully anticipated about it before. It was like it ate away at my core...just to think about this horrible, horrible situation...
"I've been thinking about that, and my answer might be graphic."
Yugi didn't show his confusion and surprise from hearing my reply, but he did listen attentively...waiting for my explanation...
"Back in Ancient Egypt, everything was in order. Royals were treated like royals, villagers were treated like villagers, and servants were treated like servants. Everything was based on status. That's just how it was back in the day.
"When I became Guardian, I was considered a servant."
Yugi's eyes showed realization. "So, before you became a servant at the palace you were a normal villager?"
I slowly nodded. "Yes, I was a normal villager. Once I was announced Guardian, I lost all privileges of a villager. Then, I was strictly told to do my job properly or suffer the consequences. No one regarded me with praise, and no one regarded me as an equal. I was only to be a shield to the future Pharaoh; nothing more. It was...just how things were.
"Ah, but Yami was a different Pharaoh. He didn't care about my low status, and somehow, we became great friends. Though he said I was his friend, he didn't stop me from doing my job the proper way; if you know what I mean."
Yugi looked down. I couldn't read his expression all too well right then, but I thought I saw confusion; mild confusion, and only from hearing something new. "I think I understand," he said. "The Pharaoh looked past your status. But even though he did that and the two of you became friends, he couldn't make you stop being his Guardian. You still had to Guard him."
I nodded. "That's right," I said. Then I absentmindedly began to play with the golden chain of the Millennium Locket. I don't know how, but it seemed like my fingers found their way to it themselves, for comfort. "The Court made it my duty to protect the Pharaoh with my life. There was a reason I was given the job. I couldn't fail. So the Pharaoh and I stayed friends, but I also had to focus on my duty.
"Now...after 5,000 years...the years Yami spent alone trapped in the Millennium Puzzle, he's been in the dark without any of his memories. All he knew was that he was a Pharaoh from Ancient Egypt and that now he resides within the Item. He was there for all that time without any memories at all...
"What I'm trying to say, Yugi, is that even though we were close friends back in Ancient Egypt, when Yami lost his memories and tried to remember them when I told him who I was...he won't think of them the same. It's like I said before; When memories are lost, the mind won't be able to imagine them the same without experiencing them again.
"When I begin to tell Yami of his memories, just by telling them to him, he won't be able to think of them the same like he did back then.
"If I begin to tell him about our friendship from back then, for example...he might not think of us the same anymore. We could end up not being friends at all after this is all over."
Yugi shook his head. "But, Sarah! That's not true at all. Your friendship and the bond you share with the Pharaoh will beat time. You'll stay friends."
I smiled, but it wavered. "I wish it were true," I said quietly. "but, who knows? You have to admit; 5,000 years is a long time. And like I said before; the mind won't remember lost memories the same anymore after losing them. To imagine every single detail the same as before, the mind will have to relive those memories."
"That's why you said the feelings or emotion won't be the same," realized Yugi.
"Exactly. Even if Yami does regain his memories, but only from me telling them to him, he won't act the same around me."
Silence reigned. I knew of this truth from the very beginning, but I never actually talked about it aloud before. When the Prophecy was being recited, I came to the horrifying conclusion all on my own. It hit me like a tonne of bricks and almost shattered my heart under its weight.
I couldn't get the most loneliest feeling in the world out of my head. No matter how hard I tried.
It definitely did feel like my world shattered once again.
First it was my brother...
Then my mother and father...
...and then...the closest friend I had ever had...
Why does life hate me? Did Destiny put me through so much hardship just so I can do my job as Guardian to the Pharaoh? Sometimes, I even think it was bad luck. But, no...it's all Destiny's will. And though the natural way to handle such heartbreak was depression, I just tried to pull myself together as much as I could and decided to keep going on the road Fate has made for me. I willed myself to be strong and hoped.
Boy, was it tough. It was really hard to pick up the broken pieces of my heart and try to put them back together again. The first time, I was young, so it was harder; much harder. As I grew older, sure I became stronger, but because of the past damage...it was only slightly harder than what it would've been.
"So, you see now, don't you, Yugi? I can't just tell him of the past. Somehow...I have to show him.
"Without those memories...he won't be able to do anything. That's why I'm saying that it can't happen. He needs to know every little detail of all of his memories.
"All so he won't forget how to beat Bakura."
Yugi's mind was in a whirl.
I thought she wanted to show him his memories so he can remember how close he was to her...
Yami appeared next to him in his spirit form, almost giving his light a heart attack. He looked as serious as ever, with his crimson eyes vivid with infinite determination and bravery, as he cast them over Yugi—and then on Sarah. She hasn't seen him. The boys don't even know if she can.
'I'm sorry, Aibou,' said Yami thoughtfully, watching his blinking friend. 'I didn't mean to frighten you. I just...couldn't help it. I need to know.'
'Actually, mou hitori no boku, I don't think Sarah will mind,' replied Yugi. 'I really do think she knows you're listening, because it's like she's talking to the both of us.'
Yami nodded in response, but found his eyes unable to tear away from Sarah, who was sitting with her arms and legs crossed and her eyes shut tight, like she was concentrating on something hard. His jaw tightened.
Yugi noticed the Pharaoh become tenser. He couldn't blame him. Sarah wasn't making any sense.
'First, she talks about the two of you...'
'Then she suddenly brings up Bakura...'
'Do you think she was using it as an example?'
Yami stared expectantly at Yugi.
'Well...what I mean to say is that she might have been using her actual feelings about one thing in order to emphasize her actual point.'
The Pharaoh's stare never faltered.
Yugi sighed. 'Listen, mou hitori no boku; when Sarah told us the reason why she can't simply talk to you about your memories, I asked her why on one of those reasons. As an answer, she referred to how close the both of you were before you lost your memories.'
'Aibou, I witnessed all those things, but the meaning behind your words is what I don't understand.'
'The reason I questioned her on was the one about you not being able to feel the same about the memories as you once did before you lost them. I'm pretty sure as an example she compared the way you two were back in Ancient Egypt to how you two will become after she talks to you about the memories.'
'She meant that exact same thing; without actually showing you the memories, you won't take them, or understand them, or feel the same about them, as you did back in Ancient Egypt.'
'Of course!' said Yami. 'Then she went on saying that she has to show me the memories in order for me to know the exact and right way to defeat Bakura, as if all her explanations was for that particular thing.'
'She disregarded the part of us being friends.'
Yugi gave the Pharaoh a meaningful look. 'I'm sure it's not because she doesn't cherish it,' he said. 'She doesn't seem like the person to throw away a friendship at all. Especially when she's so close with it. We could be thinking too much about this...'
'No, Aibou, you're right,' said Yami surely. 'There must be a reason behind her using that specific explanation.'
Yugi sighed again and looked back over to Sarah, confused as to why she would change he points so quickly. There had to be a reason...
Sarah opened her eyes and kept them in the direction of the street below. The answer to Yugi's and Yami's question hit them with sharp abruptness.
Their answer was literally in her eyes.
'Pharaoh, do you...see that?'
'The hidden secrets?'
'Yeah.'
'Then, yes.'
Both Light and Dark stared at the Guardian's bright scarlet eyes. They hadn't seen anything like it before. At least one question of many had been answered.
Behind Sarah's usual determination, which kept her a bit different from normal girls, something was hidden. An emotion she kept in the darkness in the depths of her eyes. It wasn't something Sarah showed so care freely. In order to see it, the boys had to look really close...
What Sarah had behind her strict composure, and her stashed away hyperness, was hope. So much hope, it would be a lie to say it wasn't bad. It seemed to burst dangerously behind her collectiveness. almost fighting with her internally with her serious gaze to get a chance to dominate. She was so good at hiding what she really felt.
'So there is a reason,' sighed Yami, surprised by how well she lidded her real emotions.
'Sarah really doesn't think she's only s shield!' exclaimed Yugi, happy to say that his friend wasn't giving up. 'She knows she's something more—someone!'
'Or...it could be about the bond we used to share,' acknowledged Yami. 'Don't forget, she thinks the little knowledge of my past that I have will affect what we had. It could also be why she used that specific scenario as an example to emphasize her point about defeating Bakura.'
Yugi smiled. 'She's not given up yet,' he said, almost disbelievingly. 'After 5,000 years, she still thinks—or, I mean to say, hopes—that the two of you will become good friends again.'
'You should feel special.'
Despite his collective appearance, Yami felt the corners of his lips tug upwards. He managed just a small smile to Yugi, only to reassure him.
'I won't disappoint.'
'Yeah, you better not.'
As the ancient Pharaoh returned into the Millennium Puzzle, Yugi also managed a small and very thoughtful smile. This morning when they discussed about Sarah making herself act like a shield, they were troubled. Not because they were confused, but because they were saddened by their friend's objectives and ways of thinking. She was seriously willing to go to any lengths in order to be Guardian. But now, as they saw the hidden emotion of hope Sarah was hiding deep within her this whole time, they felt hope rise in themselves as well.
Hopefully... thinks Yugi, as he looks over the crowded street below with Sarah, a thoughtful gaze on his face. ...she'll come to realize just how much people care about her to keep her from thinking this way.
That hope stayed. And so did the hope Sarah was keeping.
My Locket glowed just when I had decided to close my eyes in order to start thinking. It sensed Yami's presence nearby and I realized instantly that him and Yugi might have been talking. I gave them some privacy.
I could have seen Yami and said hi, but his knowing stare set on me couldn't be faced. And him and Yugi had already started to talk.
It was a harsh truth, but it also made more sense. In order to get my point through of why I can't tell the Pharaoh of his memories, I needed to use a solid tactic. He's already in the right mind to be Pharaoh, and according to his modern duels, he hasn't lost his touch. So, I had to use something that can change over time, only to make my point.
We still weren't back to normal.
So, that means our friendship could be wavering.
But...then again...we just me, what—two, three days ago?
A sharp pain jolted through my heart at the thought of the worse happening. I don't know how much more loss I can take.
But...like I said; there's a chance that our friendship can die. It could either go downhill or back to normal. Hmm...I wonder if it can go any higher? (;D)
Anywho...whatever happens, I'm keeping the Faith. That our friendship will go back to normal; I'm keeping the Faith. No matter how far fetched it may seem to me, there's just no way I will let it go.
It was then I opened my eyes again to look over the streets below. By now, Joey should have been at the tournament, but where is he? For the past half an hour Yugi and I haven't seen him.
Where could he be?
"Hey, I think I see him," said Yugi suddenly, pointing below. I followed his gaze and saw a familiar looking blonde making his way through the crowd of duelists. From up here, his hair was covering his face, but then again, we can distinguish him from others just by his mop of blonde hair.
Relief flushed through me. "Thank Gods! It took him a while to get here," I said, standing up to my feet along with Yugi. "Let's get off this building and join him." With a nod from him, we ran carefully passed everyone else on the roof and made our way out.
We were just going down the wide staircase when I saw Yugi turn to me mid run. His amethyst eyes showed compassion which dominated his kind face.
"I get it now," he said with a thoughtful smile. "We'll find a way to show him his memories. Don't worry."
I smiled too, just as we burst through the exit doors and made our way to where Yugi spotted Joey.
"Thanks, Yugi. And...I know."
Author's Note: Holy cannolli...just for this one part of my fanfic...this one chapter...it took me 25 pages on OpenOffice to write out. O_O That is crazy!
But then again...so am I. XDD I really hope you liked that part, although I dunno how 'good' I did. *anime falls* ^^' Still...reviews and messages are always very much appreciated! Thank you so much for reading!
Now...I know what you might be thinking; "What the hell is wrong with this author?" Now, before you say anything, the whole discussion with Yugi, Yami, and Sarah has to do with the bond between Sarah and the Pharaoh. ;) You know how 'close' the two of them will become and these are just baby steps. So please...bear with my horrible writing! xO
Important Note: As I announced in previous chapters, I am rewriting most of season 1. It will definitely take me a while, but I am determined. ^^' Hopefully...it'll be only Duelist Kingdom. Because I like the rest of season 1 the way I have already written it. XD
Now, Rex's duel with Joey was what I was going to talk about. In the rewritten version of DK, I AM putting up their original duel. That's right; Joey will get his Red-Eyes from Rex. The chapters might even go on longer and there might be even more as I add in more and more detail...
NOTHING, and again, I say NOTHING, big will be put into the rewritten version. It will only develop Sarah more as a character, and let her get a chance to get used to being my main character.(*smirks*) x'D
You are welcome to read the rewritten version when you like (I will be letting you know when I rewrite a chapter as I update season 2) but if you don't want to, then you don't really have to. But it'll be great to know how I did. X3
I am truly, really truly, sorry for any inconvenience at all and for my bad writing at the beginning. I hope I got better. ^^ And thank you so much for bearing with me.
You guys are awesome. ^^
Thanks so much again! ^-^
(I'm sorry for any errors. x3)