Hey ya, dudes and dudettes of the world! Glad you could all make it for the next chapter of the story that's getting everyone's attention. Hey, I got three things to tell you guys before I get this next chapter started.
1. Even though it's coming up in July, I'd like to tell you all that I'll be turning fifteen on the 19th of July! And since I'm Latino, I get to have a quinceanera and everything! I know that doesn't really concern ya but hey, I felt like sharing :D
2. Because Anime EXPO is going to happen in the previous June before my birthday, and since my school's anime club will be attending the first day, I might (thought I'm still not entire sure) cosplay as Hisoka :D I mean, it could be so easy to make a cosplay of him. All I need is a dark blue T-shirt, a grey jacket, dark jeans, black shoes or boots, a hex blot with a chain as Hisoka's necklace, and I could dye my bangs black, or just buy a blonde wig and do that. I might do another protagonist from another fic I have but if I do that, I will still do a Hisoka cosplay and take a picture of it and post it on DeviantART when I have the time.
3. There is some artwork of a few of the TAAS series on DA. Remember to look at my DeviantART page, MewStar13, if you'd like to look at them.
Oh yeah, and I will no longer be accepting OCs. Since I know I'm just going to keep track of more than I can handle if I keep it on. Oh yes, and I am now adding a new piece of format.
"This means that original English is being spoken." As you can tell, the characters speak Japanese, but the words are translated into English. With this format, it's means that they're speaking real English. Get me?
Disclaimer: I own nothing of Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's. I own the given characters that were so generously offered, the plot, and the newest OC that I wanted to let out for a while. I also do not own In My World (English dub) by shadowlink4321, the original composer being ROOKiEZ is PUNK'D. A very excellent song that I wished I owned and another song that I think represents Hisoka:D Now lets get this chapter rolling!
"People Should not be protected from the world... It cripples them." ― Josephine Humphreys, Rich in Love
~Chapter Seven~ If I am Protected, Then I am Weakened~
At first, Hisoka thought he had gone blind. Everything he saw was dark. And his eyes were itchy for some reason. Blinking, he rubbed the back of his hands over his eyes and looked around, seeing his sheepish-looking science partner give a weak chuckle to his science teacher, who did not find his antic very happy. Black soot covered their entire work station from their failed formula, and everyone was either laughing or groaning. The bell than rang, signaling that seventh period was over.
"Alright, class. Ignoring our little show for today, I would like all of you to review the formulas we have reviewed today as homework. Have a nice day." said the teacher. The students nodded and they all filed out of the room, Hisoka amongst them with his book bag, Duel disk, and guitar case slugged over his shoulder. It was a calm Monday at Neo Domino Duel Academy and Hisoka was pretty much in a rut. Today was like another day. Well, at least his Music class was next. At least he had something to look forward to.
"Oi, Izayoi. A moment of your time!" Hisoka stopped and turned, seeing the school's vice-principle walk over to him. This man had been here since Aki was in school. He seemed to be on fine terms with Hisoka, who had maintained beyond exceptional grades.
"Yes, Heitmann-sensei?" asked Hisoka. The vice-principle walked over to the young lad and looked at him pointedly.
"Izayoi, since your social skills seem to be suitable, the principle wishes for you to show our newest student around the academy. Though he came late at this time, we want you to show him most of the school, tell him about the schedule, and help him get use to a new learning environment. Think you can handle the job?" asked the man. Hisoka nodded and smiled.
"I don't see why not. Where is he?" asked the blonde adolescent.
"He was with me a second- Ah, there he is. Must've stopped to tie his shoe. Freeman! Front and center, young man." said Heitmann, waving his hand to the young-looking nineteen-year-old. The boy was as at Hisoka's height with sun-tan skin and light brown eyes. His hair was a mix of russet and orange and it was short and combed back. His uniform was pressed and clean and he had a America-style backpack on his shoulders. He walked over with easy and long strides.
"Yes, Mr. Heitmann? Sorry, I was tying my shoe back there." said the student, speaking in English.
"That can be forgivened. Freeman. This is Hisoka Izayoi, one of our most top students here at the academy. You could learn a lot from him. He speaks English fairly well but it would be best that you use your two-years worth of Japanese speaking. Hisoka will be showing you around so stay with him. Good day to the both of you." With that, the principle walked away and new student grinned.
"Can you speak English well?" he asked. Hisoka gave a small smile and shrug.
"Yes, but I prefer Japanese." he responded.
"Oh, then I am sorry," apologized the new student, speaking in Hisoka's native tongue, "I'm use to speaking English since I come from California. My name is Sefathonos Freeman. But please call me Seth, I absolutely hate my given name." said Seth, holding out his hand. Hisoka took it with a smile.
"Nice to meet you, Seth-ya. And it's quite alright. We all like speaking the languages we've learned. So you have Music class next as well, yes? Well, lets get going. Shall we?" he asked. Seth nodded and the two walked together, Seth telling Hisoka about his move from half-way across the world and about the scholarship he was given. Their conversation went on good. Just around half-way of the conversation, Hisoka, with much years of a good talk from Ryu, could tell that Seth was gay. He didn't have a built in gaydar or anything like that, that was telling him. Though, he could tell that Seth was hinting. He was complimenting Hisoka, smiling at him a lot, looking at him with a certain something in his eyes. Hisoka had no way to react to this. He didn't even know if his preference was in guys or girls. He shook it off, figuring that he would deal with it later. The two had finally made it to the Music classroom, Hisoka leading Seth to his group of friends.
"Hey, Hisoka. Who's the new guy?" asked Haru.
"This is Seth Freeman. He's an exchange student from America. Seth-ya, these are all my friends." said Hisoka, Seth exchanged names and greetings with the big group. The bell than rang again before anyone could talk and Jack walked in, him being the substitute teacher even though he didn't know squat about music or singing.
"Alright, alright. Calm down everyone. Take your seats and we'll begin class." he said to all the students. He pulled out the notice sheet he was given and looked over it.
"OK, so it seems that there is still one group who has yet to perform their three or four minute original song. Lets see, we have Doci-san, Izayoi-san, and our two Borelli brothers. Are you prepared?" asked Jack.
"I have the song, guys. But we need someone to play the drums." said Stephanie, her composed song printed in multiple copies.
"I could play the drums for you, if you'd like." offered Seth.
"You know how to play, Seth-kun?" asked Asucchi.
"Yeah, sure. Just give me a few minutes and I can memorize it." said the rust-haired boy. Within that time line, the group was in front of the class. Hisoka was on his guitar while Taka was on the electric guitar and Tyler was playing the electric keyboard. Seth was set up at the drums and Stephanie was setting up their equipment. The crimson-stained haired girl gave a pleasant smile.
"The song I composed for our project is called In My World. It's suppose to reflect that we can live our lives the way we want to. There is no fate that leads us towards our destiny. Only we control our lives. We choose the path we choose. I hope you'll enjoy it." said the girl with a smile, nodding at her friends as she stepped off. The guys nodded and Taka started off with the first beat, Hisoka coming along with the second melody. Then came in Tyler with the third back-up melody and then Seth with the rhythm. Both Hisoka and Taka nodded, starting the song.
Hisoka and Taka: Dark side in my heart is…
It's always bringing in the sadness that just hides in my past.
It's alright, 'cause it's nothing to me.
I'll stretch out my arms and fight this fight.
My life is in my control.
I'm gazing at this world, but I can't feel my burning soul.
It's like I don't exist, and I can't find the power to protect myself.
The beat went soft, the same with Hisoka's voice.
Hisoka: When was my path chosen for me?
Right down this road I've long avoided?
'Cause now there's no one left to be my light...
The two friends then picked up and sung in unison.
Hisoka and Taka: I won't let fate be my guide!
I will stand and will make my cry for pride!
Ah-ah-ah-alone in my world.
Inside this vibe of love.
Reality and all twisted prayers.
Make all my dreams and days ahead just fall apart.
Throwing all the lies away is pointless-
Goodbye, precious life.
They played their intermission for a few seconds. And amongst those few seconds, Jack could've sworn he heard a familiar baritone play in Hisoka's voice. It reminded him… of Yusei's. Just how was that? How could he hear that lowness sung so blissfully? He shook his head, thinking he was over-reacting.
Hisoka and Taka: Dark cloud in my heart is…
Fading away, and letting all the light shine on the that road I'm on.
Let's fight, there's no need to fear.
I've gathered all my strength in my two-edged sword.
My life isn't left in the black-
Hisoka: I have a shining light that I can count on to have my back!
Hisoka and Taka: I feel myself exist again, and I know that I'm never alone.
Hisoka: Why was my path chosen for me?
Right down this road I've long avoided?
But I won't wait to run through the unknown...
Hisoka and Taka: I won't let fate be my guide!
And I will take this chance to try for pride!
Ah-ah-ah-alone in my world.
And hearing this wave of love.
I'll crush the numbness, of all the sorrow.
That this entire world has given me for far too long.
But it's hard to throw away my soul, 'cause…
It's my precious life!
Expertly and coolly, Hisoka and Taka switched instruments and Hisoka played a solo, the cords ringing throughout the room and everyone getting more and more impressed. The two string instruments were given back to their respectful owners and the lyrics played again.
Hisoka and Taka: I won't let fate be my guide!
I will stand and will make my cry for pride!
Ah-ah-ah-alone in my world.
Inside this vibe of love.
Reality and all twisted prayers.
Make all my dreams and days ahead just fall apart.
Throwing all the lies away is pointless…
Goodbye, precious life-
Go! Change this destiny of mine.
'Cause I will never stop my try for pride!
Ah-ah-ah-alone in my world.
And singing this song of love.
I'll let it's wish break through all the burdens.
To build up all our bonds, and make tomorrow come.
All the lies that I threw away have helped 'cause-
Hisoka: It's my precious life.
The boy's eyes went soft, and Jack could see Yusei up there, instead of Hisoka, for a short moment. The lord music brought him back to reality.
The whole group: YYYYYYEEEEEEAAAAAHHHHHH!
The last notes were played fierily before stopping, everyone in classroom whopping and cheering, standing from their seats as the team took bows. Jack found himself in a mind-retching haze. He saw a figure come close to him and his heart reached out when he saw big blue eyes.
"Yusei!" he yelled, grabbing the arm of the owner of the eyes and pulling them into a tight embrace. His heart was beating against his ribcage and his breathing was irregular. This sensation of warmth he held in his arms, this smaller body so close to his. Yusei… Yes, this just had to be Yusei. It just had to-
"Ax-Axis-sensei?" that tone, so soft and in a low voice, sounded like Yusei's. But, when his eyes opened, his heart dropped and an embarrassed looked came to his face. He was holding Hisoka. And the poor boy looked utterly confused, though his face didn't look flustered. He pushed away and coughed awkwardly.
"I-I apologize, Izayoi-san. That song was just so moving." he lied, trying to look his respectable self. Hisoka shrugged.
"It's alright, Axis-sensei. If you should be giving compliments, it should be to Stephanie-ya. She's the one that made the song." he said. Stephanie gave a light laugh.
"Aw, come on, Hisoka. You and the guys did all the singing. I only composed." she said humbly. Hisoka returned the laugh.
"It was still amazing. Oi, Stephanie-ya. We still have that attributes project we need to get working on for Thursday's class. Should we make it at your place or mine?" he asked. Stephanie looked at him thoughtfully.
"It's too quiet over there, and no offense, but your house is just the same. Why don't we start on the main notes and meet at Piece of Paradise?" she asked. Hisoka nodded.
"That sounds good." he responded.
"What is Piece of Paradise?" asked Seth, looking confused.
"We could show you, Seth-san. It's a very interesting place." said Rose.
"Yeah, you're gonna love it, bud." said Ryu with a grin.
"How about we all go there together? We can split the money on the food and mine and Hisoka's project could get done faster." suggested Stephanie. Everyone nodded and Hisoka tapped his fist to him palm.
"Alright. We go there after school."
"So… the next elements that go in this row are… Iron, Cobalt, Nickel, and… Copper, right?"
"Yeah. Then it's Zink, Gallium, and Germanium."
"I thought Zink was after Geranium."
"Nope. Look at the text book."
"Oh,"
Z bashed his head against the table.
"Can we please take a break? It's after school time, people!" he said, lifting his head. Madilyn placed down the text book she held.
"I have to agree with Z on this one. I am really starting to wonder why you guys picked Advanced Science as an elective." she said, looking at Stephanie and Hisoka. The whole group was sitting at a large table with text books, papers, smoothies and sherbets of all sorts around them and a few of them ready to fall asleep.
"Alright, since it seems like our fault, lets go get the next round of desserts, Hisoka." said Stephanie, standing up. Hisoka placed down the sheets of papers he had and he nodded, fallowing his friend to the food counter.
"Well, things are running smoothly, aren't they?" asked Hisoka.
"Besides everyone complains, all seems good. At least we're not getting any lip from Seth." said Stephanie, looking over the thirty-five different flavors of ice cream the place had to offer.
"Yeah, he's pretty nice, huh?" asked Hisoka, taking a number for their order.
"Yeah. And you do know that he's trying to get with you, right?" asked Stephanie, giving a giggle as Hisoka looked ready to sputter, which the usually relaxed young man would never do.
"N-No! You're just saying things, Stephanie-ya. I don't even know if he goes that way. I don't think I go that way either!" he said, looking ready to blush.
"Oh, you don't think, but do you know?" asked Stephanie, finally letting out a burst of laughter as Hisoka looked like a child caught with his hand in the cookie jar. "You're so cute when you want to be, Hisoka."
"Have I ever told you that you just might be that annoying yet perfect sister I never asked for?" asked Hisoka, recovering from his stained face.
"Only a number of times. Sorry, it's just funny when someone breaks you from your lax façade, Hisoka. It's cool to see you blush. It shows that you're human, you know?" asked the scientist-in-training, selecting a few smoothies and ice creams for everyone.
"Well, I'm glad to know that I'm human." said Hisoka with a smile, taking the other tray of sweets they ordered. The two of them walking back to their table. The two stopped when they saw a familiar group of bullies.
"Jun, what brings you here?" asked Hisoka, he and Stephanie placing the trays of food down. Hisoka took noticed that Jun had gotten his hair cut. No longer was there a long wolf-tail going all the way to his back. It was gone, and the hair was done in a shaggy yet spiky way.
"Nothing that concerns you, Koshinuke. I've just come to deliver the class schedule to our newest student. He forgot it in the front office." said Jun, his eyes then narrowing at the American. "And watch the crowd you hang around with, Freeman. People like these Koshinukes are not the types to be around with." he warned in perfect English. Stephanie gave a glare.
"If you have something to say, say it right to us, Jun Divine! You don't have to make us feel lower than you just because your life has been nothing but crap!" she snapped. Everyone held their breath that moment. Stephanie was usually and calm and happy girl, not really in the mood for picking fights unless it was absolutely needed. However, that blazed look in her eyes said otherwise.
"What was that you just said, Koshinuke? Are you trying to puck a fight with me?" Jun asked, his comrades coming up with him. Stephanie didn't look afraid.
"No, I'm not. I'm just pointing out the truth. Like if that Duel wasn't interrupted a few days back, then Hisoka would've wiped the floor with you! He's a much better Duelist than you." she said smartly.
"Care to make a wager for that? A Duel, perhaps?" growled Jun, the Duel disk on his arm already readied.
"I will! You'll be sorry, I swear!" she yelled.
"Are there any wages? Perhaps those necklaces that you and the Koshinuke wear. Your's is too gaudy for my taste but I know that the both of your prides would be brought to where they belong if I had them." said Jun. Stephanie glowered at him.
"Gaudy! Take that back, you jerk! That's it, it's a deal! Hisoka, you in or what?" she asked, looking at the blue-eyed Duelist. Hisoka had to a take a while to register what was happening before nodding. He didn't see why not. Jun needed to be put in his place. Though, he hoped Stephanie would be careful. He knew how much her necklace meant to her. The same was to the hex bolt around his neck.
"Very well. Let's take this outside." said Jun. the groups exited the building and they found an empty lot they could use. Jun got on one side and Stephanie got on the other. Haru was the ref.
"Alright, you are each given 4000 Life Points and the first turn will be determined by the flip of a coin. Pick you choice!" he said as he flipped the coin.
"Heads!"
"Tails!"
The coin landed on the floor.
"The side is tails, so that means Stephanie goes first. First one to knock out their opponents Life Points wins. Begin." said the brunette.
"Lets Duel!"
Stephanie: 4000
Jun: 4000
"I go first!" said Stephanie, drawing a card. "And I start off by placing my Summoner Monk (LV:4/ATK:800/DEF:1600) in defense mode. And because I normal summoned him, I can discard one spell card from my hand and Special Summon a level four monster from my deck. So I think I'm gonna bring out my Dark Grepher ( LV:4/ATK:1700/DEF:1600) in attack mode." said Stephanie as her bounty hunter monster and spiritual monster appeared. "I place one card face down and end my turn."
"My draw," said Jun. "And since I control no monsters and you control two, I can special summon my Unknown Synchron (LV:1/ATK:0/DEF:0) from my hand, and I also get to summon my Ally of Justice Reverse Break (LV: 4/ATK:1200/DEF:1200) in attack mode. And if I send it to attack a defense position monster that you have in control, then that monster is destroyed. I then place down one card and end my turn." said Jun as Summoner Monk was destroyed.
"That still won't stop me from attacking your weak monsters!" Go, Dark Grepher! Beat his Unknown Synchron to a pulp!" she yelled, the bulky monster attack with a swinging axe.
"I now activate my trap card, Waboku! None of my monsters are hit and I take not battle damage." said Jun, his card playing and both his monsters left un-harmed.
Stephanie: 4000
Jun: 4000
"So far, so good." said Youkai.
"Lets just see if Dark Grepher will still remain." said Xerxes wisely.
"Don't count on that! Because I now play this card! Swords of Revealing Light!" called Jun, green swords of empowerment covering Stephanie's monster. "And with this card in play, you cannot attack for three moves. Your turn." said Jun. Stephanie let out a huff of breath before drawing.
'There's no way I'm gonna lose to him.' she thought as she looked at the cards in her hands. She gave a small groan to herself. 'I can't use these guys right now. I just have to pass.'
"I have no cards, so end I end my turn." muttered the black-haired girl flatly.
"Then I go. And first summon my spell card, Enemy Controller. And now, your monster is now in defense mode," as he said this, Stephanie's hunter monster huddled to the ground. "And now, I am allowed to summon my Ally of Justice Enemy Catcher. I can now take control of your Dark Grepher since he is in defense mode."
"No way!"
"Can he do that?"
"I can and I will," said Jun as Stephanie's beast marched to his side. "I now place one card face-down and end my turn." said the black-haired boy.
"Damn, this is looking bad." muttered Z.
"Stephanie can pull out of this. We must have confidence." said Hisoka, shifting on his feet a little.
Stephanie: 4000
Jun: 4000
"I place one card face-down and I end my turn." said Stephanie. 'I only have to wait two turns. I just have to hold out.'
"I draw. And since I have three Allies of Justice on the field, I sacrifice all of them so now, I can summon a monster from my Extra deck,' said Jun, all of his Allies disappearing with a green light forming. Jun's eyes closed as wind whipped around the area.
"The will-power of justice strives in his blood, as the weaken and fallen bow before him. Let all see his way towards the way to dawn! I Synchro Summon my Ally of Justice Field Marshal (LV:9/AT:2900/DEF:2600) in attack mode!" yelled Jun, a warrior of blue, gold, and silver armor appearing, pumping a fist in the air with red and glowing eyes.
"Dear God," muttered Ashter, his eyes and some of the other's eyes widen. Jun gave a smug smirk, much similar to his father's.
"As you can see, I always strive to be the best. And now, you shall witness IT! Go, Field Marshal and Dark Grepher, attack her directly!" yelled the teen as the two monsters attacked. Stephanie held out her hand.
"I activate my trap card, (#*#) Plus and Sub! With this card, I only take half a direct attack and I get four Dark Tokens played on my side of the field." she said, taking the weakened attack and receiving four black and cloud-shaped sprites on the field.
Stephanie: 1700
Jun: 4000
"So? You've only taken half of an attack but you've still lost a lot of Life Points. And the effects of Swords of Revealing Light are still in played. By the next move, you're finished." sneered Jun. Stephanie flipped her hair back.
"I'm still gonna win this either way!" she shouted.
"How's she gonna do that?" asked Taka, scratching the back of his head.
"I think I'm getting a pretty good idea. All she need is this one draw to be on her side." said Haru. Hisoka nodded in agreement.
"Humph, very well. I end my turn. You're move." said Jun.
"Gladly," said Stephanie, drawing a card and then smiling at it. "Well, it looks like this Duel is gonna come to an end, Jun!"
"And how is that, Koshinuke?"
"It's like this! I first play my spell card, (#*#) Miracle Water of the Forbidden Garden! I can only activate this card when I have at least three or more Dark Tokens on the field. And now, I also play another spell card! Allure of Darkness! By sending one of my Dark-type monsters from my hand to my Graveyard, I get to draw two cards. And with the effects of Miracle Water, I can take these two dark-type monsters I have in my hand, and my four tokens, in order to Synchro Summon my own monster! Here we go!" called Stephanie as all the monsters came together.
"Thundering hope and long-lived protection, a new master has taken the stage! Let him shine and prevail! I Synchro Summon my (#*#) Darklord Heratosworrn (LV:9/ATK:2700/DEF:2000) in defense mode!" she yelled as a swordsman appeared on the filed, kneeling to the ground with red and white armor shinning on him.
"And this is suppose to help you how?" asked Jun with a unimpressed look.
"It's because of his effect! When I summon him in defense mode, any dark-type monster lower than two-thousand attack points on your side of the field are sent to the Graveyard and any spell card effects are destroyed! Not only that, but since my monster was summoned by four Dark Tokens, it gains a hundred attack points for each one (ATK:3100)! And now he attacks your monster! And since it was in attack mode, he attacks you twice! Go, Heratosworrn, use Piercing winds of Heart!" she yelled finally, finishing off the entire thing.
Stephanie: 1700
Jun: 0
Jun clenched his teeth as he staggered back, refusing to succumb to his slightly buckled legs. He breathed heavily as the rest the Academy students he despised so much gathered around Stephanie, with high-fives and praises.
"Ah yeah! You showed him, Steph!" said Z, pumping his fist in the air. Stephanie scratched the back of her head with a laugh.
"It was nothing," she then turned to Jun and she nodded. "I won, so I think that means you have to leave us be, Jun. It was a good Duel, but you still need some work." she said. Jun straighten himself and threw a cold look. He then gave a huff and he jerked his head, silently ordering his group to walk over to their D-Wheels. They left and the group whooped around some more.
"Alright, this calls for some celebrations! C'mon, lets get us some Sundays!" Asucchi said, whooping. The team nodded and they all walked inside, Hisoka, Youkai, and Xerxes noticing that something was happening to Stephanie. Her eyes dilated for a split second before she gave a soft sound and fell, Hisoka caught her in a nick of time.
"Shit! It's not-!"
But her disappearing shadow told the blue-eye boy otherwise.
"Does this mean she has a Shin No Jiko, too?' asked Xerxes.
"It looks so, Xerxes-san. Hisoka-san, should we get to Donbureiku immediately?" asked Youkai. Hisoka nodded and he carefully picked up Stephanie and took her to a bench, placing her down. The group of three then closed their eyes and let Youkai do his work. Within a second, they were already fast asleep.
"Ah, you've arrived already. Thank goodness." said Lunalore as the three teens walked over to him, the knight, and the king. The area around them was a clearing with crystal-like flowers everywhere, the wind blowing in a harsh way despite it's beauty.
"Are we in Stephanie's Donbureiku, Gareth?" asked Hisoka, looking around the area. The white-haired monarch nodded.
"Yes, the commotion should be not too far from here. Hurry, we must not make haste." he said, the group agreeing with him and the lot already running in a pack. A flash of purple caught their attention and they already knew that the worst had came. They all ran over to a field to see… not exactly what they expected to see.
Stephanie was holding her ground, her fist balled-up on her sides while her other self was lounging around lazily, surprisingly not insulting her.
"Uh… are you OK, Stephanie-ya?" asked Hisoka as the group of six walked over to her. Stephanie gave a shrug.
"I'm fine. A little weirded-out by this place but I'm still fine. What is this place, Hisoka?" asked Stephanie, looking as calm as ever.
"This makes no sense, half of her Shin No Jiko is still painted half-black and it still looks like her. What does this mean?" asked Xerxes, eyeing the other self. They were all surprised when Stephanie's yet-to-be-self gave a harsh laugh.
"So stupid… All of you are so weak and stupid. I guess that means I have to save the day again, huh?" she asked, placing one hand on her hip. The crew stared at her with wide eyes, Stephanie's being the widest.
"Wh-What? What did you just say?" she asked.
"It's obvious, isn't it? I'm much better than everyone. I have to protect everyone. I have to be the most perfect daughter while mommy and daddy are away. I'm just so perfect!" she cried, laughing afterwards and smirking with pride. Stephanie glared and shook her head.
"Don't say things like that with my face! I don't think like that at all!" she yelled.
"Oh, it so IS what you think! You have to protect everyone! You want to be BETTER than everyone else! That's you, sweetie!" she yelled, more and more of her laughter screeching like a banshee's scream.
"NO! NO! NO! SHUT UP! SHUT UP! SHUT UP!" yelled Stephanie, her voice cracking. Hisoka never saw her act liked this.
"This is what you think! This what you are! This is you! Because I am you!" yelled the dark and evil Shin No Jiko. Stephanie stomped her feet and gave a shrill scream.
"NO! NO! NO! There's no way you can be me!"
"Why did we wait for this? Geez!" exclaimed Xerxes, just as the dreaded Shinjitsu No Ketto force field spread around Stephanie and her other self.
"Even if we tried to stop her, Stephanie-ya still needs to so this. She needs to accept her other self either way." said Hisoka, knowing that Stephanie had to take this on her own.
Stephanie closed her eyes as wind blew and dried at her eyes, a crystalline figure of herself printing everywhere across the clearing, laughing and screaming all the way.
"I am a Shadouserufu! The true ideal. Who you wish to be. To be better than everyone is what you wish! To be the most sensational person in the world is what you want to be!" cried the crystal-like evil self, laughing all the while. Stephanie looked at it and shook her head.
"Stop it… I mean it! That's not me!" she yelled. She yelped as a crystal bolt was shot at her, the projectile barely missing her by an inch.
"Don't bitch at me like that! Accept who you are, damn it!" screamed her darker self.
"I… I cannot…" her breath went shallow and she stood up straighter, trying to keep her head in tack.
'Is… could this actually be what I think?'
"Oh, you did such a good job, Stephanie."
"Look dear, she wants to be a scientist like us."
"I'll be the best!"
'But that was only a dream I had as a kid… I thought I gave up on it a long time ago.'
"You did. But yet you still strived with an undying will. Don't you remember that one time in your past?" asked the other Stephanie. The other self sighed before standing, giving one wave of her hand and the scene around them changed. Stephanie blinked as she saw it was now a bright and sunny Neo Domino Park, people passing her and her other self.
"Wh-Where are we?" she asked, turning around and watching as people didn't noticed her.
"We are in a vision of your memories. Look, over there." said the other Stephanie, pointing to a group of boys who were surrounding someone. Stephanie's eyes widen when she spotted a head of blonde hair.
"That's-!"
"Hey, leave him alone! What did he ever do to you!"
The blue-eyed girl gasped as she saw her eleven-year-old self stomp over to the group, glowering at them. The group separated a bit and it revealed to have a twelve-year-old Hisoka in the middle, bruises all over his body from the many kicks and punches he received with a torn and bloody lip. He was crying, tears making his dirty cheeks clean.
"This kid's a bastard! He's got no dad! He's a disgrace." sneered one of the boy's, kicking Hisoka in the ribs. The little boy barfed up a little blood with a whimper.
"I SAID KNOCK IT OFF!" yelled Stephanie, charging and kicking the boy in the face with a circling kick. Everyone gasped and the older Stephanie gaped.
"This-This chick is crazy! Run like Hell!" yelled the group, running away like dog's with their tails between their legs. The smaller Stephanie walked over to the younger Hisoka and smiled.
"Are you OK?" she asked. Hisoka nodded weakly and he got on his feet, grinning a little.
"That-That was so cool! You knocked that guy out in one kick!" he exclaimed.
"Why didn't you fight back?" asked the younger Stephanie. Hisoka gave a small frown, stuffing his hands into the pockets of his overly-sized sweater.
"I… didn't want to. My Okaasan says that violence never solves anything." he said. The younger Stephanie gave a cross look.
"Adults say that all the time. You gotta defend yourself at least, or else they'll come back again. Look, here's what we'll do; I'll teach you a few fighting moves so that you could defend yourself. Oh, my name is Stephanie, by the way. Stephanie S. Doci." she said, holding a hand. Hisoka looked at the hand before taking it with a gentle smile.
"Hisoka Izayoi. Lets be good friends, Stephanie-ya."
"Hey! Don't be calling me 'Miss', short-stuff!"
"He was kind of the shorty back then when we were kids." said Stephanie with a light laugh.
"And then he grew up. Taller and stronger. You were the one who protected him. Yet, the love you to had was not of star-crossed lovers." said the other self. Stephanie gave another laugh.
"Well, yeah. Because since then, I only saw him as my best friend, an older brother I had to protect, not a crush or anything like that. I don't know," she gave another shrug. "I just… can't bring myself to like him like that, you know? Hisoka's not the one for me."
Her mirrored self nodded, slowly changing back into her black-smeared self.
"So, do you now understand?"
Stephanie gave a nod.
"Yeah… you are me. And I am you."
Hisoka took in a sigh of relief as he saw that the purple force of the area disappear, Stephanie walking over with a smile on her face and her other self next to her.
"She… was right. I've always wanted to protect people and I've always wanted to be the best of the best, but… it was hard for me… because of all that weight and pressure fell on me…" she looked at the ground, giving a pained smile before speaking again.
"I know who I am. I can't go over-thinking this, but I can't push it aside either. If I protect, then the defenseless are weakened. I've now realized… that once my job is done, it's done. There can be no 'better me.' There is only me, and there are those as well." she turned to her other self. "And with that, I know you need your name as well. So… can you tell me it?"
The other Stephanie smiled before pulling a playing card from the folds of her white robe. Stephanie took it and looked at the picture of a Queen chess piece, similar to the one she had given Hisoka. Above the picture read "QUEEN". She flipped the card over and read the name in the back.
"St… Starphire."
"Ah, it's good to be hearing my actual name." said the other Stephanie, her form changing. Her hair was still raven and crimson but her eyes were know silver with violet flecks. She wore a one-sleeve, black tank top that exposed her midriff with a black silk choker with a pewter dragon charm. She also wore one long glove that covered most of her right arm, and one black bracelet was on her left arm. The finishing touches were a pair of what appeared to be leather pants with a silver belt and platform boots. She seemed more 'up to date' then the others.
"So this is the real me." said Stephanie, nodding to herself.
"It appears so. And that means we have only more to enter our circle. King Gareth, sir Lunalore, lady Aisu, fancy seeing all of you again. The world and this world is in peril, as I presume?" asked Starphire with an arched brow.
"Indeed. I must suggest that you take rest though, Starphire. It would be a wise thing." said Gareth. The newest spirit to the team nodded.
"Very well. But we shall discuss more later on." she said.
"That includes, you guys." said Stephanie, looking at Hisoka, Youkai, and Xerxes. Hisoka smiled.
"Of course. But first, let us return to the real world. We can't miss out on those desserts, now can we?"
No one objected to that.
"So you're serious on all of this Hisoka?" asked Stephanie an hour later, via cell phone. The whole group had left from Piece of Paradise a while ago, Hisoka chatting with Stephanie through their cellar devices since the both of them lived on opposite sides of the city.
"A hundred percent sure, Stephanie-ya. Please tell me you believe me. I know it sounds crazy, but it's the truth." said Hisoka. There was a long pause.
"You know, if I didn't see it for myself, I wouldn't believe you the first time. But now that I've witness the whole thing, I believe you. And… I'll help you out, Hisoka." Hisoka let out a smile.
"Thank you so much! You won't regret it! I'll see you tomorrow, yes?" he asked.
"Yeah. I gotta go. See you."
"Bye."
Hisoka hung up and he made it back to his home. He walked to the front door, opened the front door, and he walked in, announcing his arrival. When there was no response, Hisoka walked to the kitchen and found a note. He read it and saw that Aki was going to be out till eleven because an old friend of her's in Uptown Neo Domino had a baby a while ago, and her friend needed some help. For dinner, he ordered himself a Mochi Pizza (1) and he walked up to his room and brought down his laptop. He turned it on and he decided to look at his E-mail. He blinked as he saw there was a letter from school. He opened the tab.
To Mr. Hisoka I.
You have been chosen as one of the very first to participate in our Academy's Social Service network. Duels-thr0ugh-the-Ciibrs is a online social network where students of our academy take part in meeting students they have never been well acquainted with. It's a fun way for many to get to know each other. This is also a much safer site for you to chat with friends and interact well. Please submit the fallowing sign-up sheet and we will set you to one of the chat rooms with a few other of our participants.
Hisoka looked over the letter again before looking to the sign-up sheet. He typed in his E-mail address and his student ID and all he had left was to type in his user name. he was advised to type in a creative one. He had to think on that one for a while. He then thought of one and typed it in:
Wandering-Archfiend XIII
"That's an interesting name." commented Gareth as he floated in mid air in a cross-legged position. Hisoka gave a shrug.
"It was the first thing that came to my head." he said before entering the rest he needed and he submitted his sign-up. Instantly, he was in a chat room, with only one other occupant:
Sleepless_0-racion
"Again, another interesting name. What does 'Oracion' mean?" asked Gareth, taking a closer look.
"It's Spanish, I believe. It's suppose to mean 'prayer.'" replied his Sotogawa No Serufu as he began typing.
Wandering-Archfiend XIII: Hello. It's nice to meet you.
Sleepless_0-racion: Likewise. You go to Neo Domino as well, yes?
Wandering-Archfiend XIII: Yes. It's going to be my last year there before I graduate.
Sleepless_0-racion: I see. Have you decided what you will be doing with your life?
Hisoka paused for a second before typing in his response.
Wandering-Archfiend XIII: Nothing has come to mind yet. Though my Physics teacher suggest that I could get a scholarship into Neo Domino Labs. What about you?"
Sleepless_0-racion: I have nothing to pursue yet either. I do have a love in music though, so I might be lucky enough to submit a application form to Neo Domino's Grand Orchestra.
Wandering-Archfiend XIII: Wow, that sounds amazing! Only the best can get into that. You must have a lot of confidence. Tell me, what instrument do you play?
Sleepless_0-racion: When I was younger, I always loved playing percussion instruments.
Hisoka's fingers paused, remembering how good Seth was on the drums when they played in Music class today. Could this person be Seth? He then saw another message.
Sleepless_0-racion: But I've always liked string instruments more. I've taken in learning the violin. I… really do hope to impress someone.
Oh, now things were getting real interesting.
Wandering-Archfiend XIII: Impress someone? Do you mean like a crush?
Sleepless_0-racion: Yes. It feels like that I've just met him today and now I just want him and him only.
Hisoka's face paled before it turned red.
Wandering-Archfiend XIII: Did you just met them today? And did you just say 'him?'
Sleepless_0-racion: It feels like I've saw him for the first time in my life. The first time I've actually noticed him. And yes, I said him. That doesn't bother you, does it?
Wandering-Archfiend XIII: Not at all. In fact, I do hope that your song will impress your crush. Does he mean that much to you?
Sleepless_0-racion: Yes. More than anyone else in this world… And now I've just realized I spilled my guts in front of someone I don't know.
Hisoka gave a light laugh.
Wandering-Archfiend XIII: It's alright. I'll tell no one or doing anything else of the sort. You're secret is safe with me.
Sleepless_0-racion: I'll hold you onto that. Oh, I must be going now. If it's alright, can we chat again sometime tomorrow night?
Wandering-Archfiend XIII:… I'd like that. Goodnight.
Sleepless_0-racion: Goodnight.
*Sleepless_0-racion has logged off*
*Wandering-Archfiend XIII has logged off*
Hisoka turned off his laptop and lied back in the couch, his mind doing a few flips and a stain still on his cheeks. Was the person on the other side of that screen really Seth? It very much sound like him. And the man was very sweet, saying that he wanted to impress and captivate the one he loved. He then heard a knocking at the door and got up, ready to get his pizza.
'Well, I guess I'll have more time to think on it later.'
Ah~! Now that chapter took a lot out of me. Man, I been on this thing for a long time. My back is starting to hurt a little. Ah well, anyway, I hope you all liked this chapter. Yes, there is a new Duelist Website in this story. All hail Duels-thr0ugh-the-Ciibrs! Make sure to submit your OC's username so that they can join on the chatting site!And aw~! Hisoka's got a crush! Isn't that adorable? Well, in later news:
1. Yes, they do serve and deliver pizza in Japan. The pizza Hisoka ordered was a Mochi Pizza, which has rice cake, bacon, double cheese, seaweed, and some Parmesan cheese. Hey, blame his weird eating habits from his dads. And you just gotta wonder why these people don't get fat from the stuff they eat. Huh, ah well.
I hope you all liked this chapter! Make sure to read and review, and I'll see you all later! So long!
This is me saying, Peace!