Hi everyone!
I'm so sorry about how long this has taken and how long it is but please just go with it beacause it's the "Big Event" and a turning point in the story.
I don't own Yugioh 5D's nor the song "At The Beginning"by Richard Marx and Donna Lewis.
Enjoy! :)
It was the big day and everyone was getting things prepared. The Tanaka household was full of people rushing from one room to the next and Sara and Luna had a lot on their plate that day, so Yusei and the guys offered to help them out. The day dawned bright and warm, with a peaceful atmosphere. The gardens were immaculate and the flowers were in full bloom.
"AHHHHHH!" There was a piercing shriek and everybody froze. No one breathed, no one spoke. They waited and then a thundering sound could be heard descending from the top floor making its way down to the ground floor. Zero and Sara walked out of their office and were looking confused at the sight that beheld them. Just as Zero opened his mouth to speak, Luna came rushing through and having seen everybody she stopped. Sara, waving everybody back to work, looked at her daughter who was red in the face and breathing heavily.
"Wow Sis, you really need to exercise more!" grinning, Leo made fun of his sister's appearance. Luna wasn't having any of it.
"Shut up Leo, we have a crisis!" Luna's golden eyes flashed and Leo slowly backed away.
"What's wrong honey?" Sara's soothing voice calmed her daughter down and Luna continued.
"It's the caterers – they're going to be late because there was an emergency in the kitchen but the food takes ages to get organised!" Rubbing her forehead, Sara thought this through carefully. Zero looked at his wife and placed a well muscled arm around her shoulders and Sara glanced at him. Smiling her beautiful smile, she came up with a plan.
"Okay, here's what we do. There's still plenty to do here and if we focus on that for the time being then when the caterers get here we can all help them get things organised. But, my darling – you need to relax. So take a deep breath and calm yourself down." Luna, doing what her mother said felt better afterwards. Yusei marvelled at how Sara managed to get the crisis reduced to nothing in less than two minutes. "Impressive." Smiling at the group, Luna clapped her hands.
"Let's get this party ready then!" With that, everyone continued their work and left the family alone.
"Luna, can you help me with the table decorations please?"
"Yes Mother." As she left, Luna punched Leo on the arm.
"What was that for?" Leo asked indignantly, rubbing his arm. "And that's not fair – I can't hit a girl!"
"Well I can hit you, so that's for telling me I needed to exercise more." Luna smiled and followed her mother to the dining room where the table decorations awaited her.
At the Izinski Manor, Akiza wasn't having much luck either. Her father refused to tell her in advance what the announcement was going to be. "Father, why can't you just tell me?"
"Just because Akiza – you'll have to wait like everybody else, but don't worry it will make this evening unforgettable!" For once, her father was relatively happy and Akiza hadn't seen her father like that in many years. Sighing, she left her father's office and leant against his door. "I wonder what Cordi is doing?" Akiza moved herself away from her father's office and made her way up the marble staircase, heading towards Cordi's room. Knocking on her door and hearing lots of rushing about, Akiza became worried.
"Is everything alright Cordi?"
"Umm...Yes just give me a minute please!" There was a slight hint of desperation in her voice that made Akiza even more worried. Before she could say anything, the door opened and there stood Cordi looking a little flushed but her emerald green eyes were bright, brighter than Akiza had seen them in a long time.
"Can I come in?" Akiza didn't really know why she was asking for permission, considering that Cordi had always allowed her into her room but for some reason Akiza felt that Cordi was different.
"Of course!"Smiling, Cordi stepped away from the doorway and invited Akiza in. Looking around Cordi's room, Akiza could see that she had been busy painting – the easel was covered up by a sheet of cloth.
"Still painting then?" Cordi nodded.
"I find it relaxes me – I can think better." Gazing at her long-time friend, Cordi could see that something was bothering Akiza. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing. Oh can I see your dress?" Akiza moved towards the wardrobe and Cordi rushed to stand in front of it so that she couldn't open the doors. Akiza raised an eyebrow.
"I...I'm sorry, but I'd rather no one see it until this evening." Cordi said quietly to her friend. Looking up at Akiza, she could see that she was confused and then it dawned on her.
"I understand now – you won't be travelling with us to the ball will you?"
"No, I wanted to make my own way there – so that I'm introduced as a de Chevalier and a member of the elite society in my own right"
"I see, so I guess I will be seeing you in your finery when everyone else does then?"
"I'm afraid so – but don't worry, I doubt I'll upstage you!" Cordi knew how important this day was for her and she could tell Akiza's parents were starting to look a little nervous – not that she knew why. Akiza grasped Cordi's hand and Cordi looked surprised.
"My dear friend, there's no way you would even consider upstaging me and I don't even care about that, if I'm perfectly honest – I just want you to have a wonderful time tonight and there's no doubt in my mind that you'll look stunning, whatever your dress is like!"
"Thank you so much, you have no idea how much that means to me!" Both women gazed fondly at one another and were grateful that they had this friendship. The grandfather clock chimed four o'clock and Cordi opened her bedroom door for Akiza.
"You'd better be going – there's a lot of preparing to do, we must look our very best." With that Akiza nodded and left the room. The minute she had gone, Cordi leant against the door and slid down to the floor. Holding her hand against her forehead and rubbing it, she could feel a headache coming on. It was most inconvenient – especially on a day that was the most important one of her life. Tonight would be the night that she, Cordelia de Chevalier, would make her entrance into the world she was born into, one of glittering jewels and fine parties.
"Oh! Would you look at this place! Everything is so beautiful!"
"Em – what did you expect?" Em was Emma Ridgemount and as Crow's girlfriend, she was accompanying him to this event. The whole group was gathered in the entrance hall of the Tanaka family home and they were waiting for Bruno and his date to arrive. Jack and Carly were attending together and Yusei was on his own. At the sound of running, the group all turned and saw Bruno and Sophie heading their way.
"I'm so sorry we're late!" Jack rolled his eyes.
"Typical woman – it's so like you." Sophie narrowed her eyes at Jack and corrected him.
"I see, except that our lateness was not my fault, its Mr It'll-only-take-me-ten-minutes, who slowed us down." Jack turned pink but composed himself and rounded on Bruno.
"Dude, do you know how important this evening is to us?" Bruno had the decency to look sheepish, however Yusei wanted to reduce the risk of an argument so he moved to greet Sophie.
"Hey, Soph – how's the new book coming along?" Kissing her cheek, Yusei recalled that she was writing another book. Sophie was a well known author and at a relatively young age, everyone was surprised when they realised who she was.
"Not bad thanks; my editor seems to like it so far."
"Shall we head in?" The group grew silent but they all nodded. The marble staircase leading up to the entrance into the ballroom was lined with white roses and orange lilies, these were winding around the banister and hanging down from the top of the staircase was the Tanaka family coat of arms. As they all climbed the stairs, Yusei remembered what Zero had said to him about the Senator. "Be careful when you speak to the Senator – he's against people from the Satellite and won't hesitate to start something." Yusei hoped the evening went smoothly despite his presence.
Reaching the top of the stairs, there was a flight of them heading down into the ballroom. At the top, there stood a gentleman who was talking to those who were arriving and announcing them, to the group's horror.
"So much for arriving discreetly then..." Crow said wryly. Yusei nodded but he continued forward. Reaching the man, Yusei waited for instructions.
"And you are...?"
"Yusei Fudo."
"From?" Yusei looked a little confused and the man eventually acknowledged his marker but didn't comment. "Do you have a title Mr Fudo?"
"Not an official one, but I am the Duel King if that's any help?" The announcer continued.
"A, Mr Yusei Fudo, our current Duel Champion." There was a silence as Yusei was directed down the royal blue carpeted stairs into the ballroom. The rest of the group followed suit and were introduced, but they all had the guests curious about their presence.
"A Mr Crow Hogan and Miss Emma Ridgemount of New Domino." The announcer moved slightly away from Crow as he passed him because he looked a little scary with all his criminal markers. Crow respectfully didn't comment on this because of Emma and Zero and Sara, who were watching from below.
"A Mr Jack Atlas and Miss Carly Carmine of New Domino City." There were a few sighs of appreciation as Jack escorted a gorgeously dressed Carly down the stairs. Jack looked particularly stunning, with his white blond hair shining like a halo above his head. And finally Bruno was announced along with his girlfriend who was dressed to impress.
"A Mr Bruno Hart and Miss Sophie Maxwell of New Domino City." By this time Yusei had met with Zero and Sara, who had been watching carefully and they greeted them all. The ball continued on, with a few of the guests still interested in the arrivals. Zero was pleased to see that all the guys had brushed up quite nicely and that they had brought a partner, except Yusei.
"Are you here on your own Yusei?" Sara was curious.
"Well, I haven't got a partner if that's what you mean."
"I see...well there are plenty of lovely young women here..." Zero nudged his wife discreetly but she took no notice and continued. "...so if you get lonely then just introduce yourself." And with a big smile, Sara linked arms with Zero and walked away to greet their other guests.
"Well...that was awkward." Crow was quick to point out and everybody else agreed.
"Why didn't you bring anyone? Your invitation said you could." Jack couldn't understand.
"Jacky, perhaps Yusei prefers to attend on his own, rather than having some bimbo on his arm or worse...an adoring fan!"Carly jokingly shuddered.
"Are you shuddering at the thought of my having a date or about the date herself?" Yusei chuckled. Carly reached up and patted his cheek in comfort.
"No, you're handsome... not my type but definitely handsome, however I don't blame you for coming on your own."
"I'm surprised you didn't!" Crow said laughing. Emma hit him on his arm and said very carefully
"Perhaps you should be quiet – you don't want Jack to beat you up again do you?" Crow glanced at Jack who was glaring and shook his head. Yusei smiled but moved away saying
"I'm going to wander around the gardens for a bit, get some air." With that, he left the group. Breaking the silence Crow said "I thought it was only women who "need to get some air"?" Rolling his eyes, Jack explained.
"I think Yusei is feeling a little stifled." Before anyone else said anything, the announcer spoke.
"Announcing, Mr Hideo Izinski, Senator of New Domino City and his wife, Setsuko Izinski." They all glanced up and saw a tall man with greying hair, dressed in a dark suit with a silk cravat the colour aquamarines in the breast pocket. His wife was at least a foot smaller than him and with her reddish hair styled to one side of her head; the elaborate braid was hanging over one shoulder and was decorated with little gems that matched the earrings hanging from her earlobes. Her dress was made of the finest aquamarine silk and it was a simple creation. Floor length and lightly skimming over her gentle curves, she had the grace of a woman brought up in a high social standing family. Behind them was a young woman who looked like Mrs Izinski.
"Announcing, Miss Akiza Izinski of New Domino City and the daughter of our Senator." When the young woman entered the light at the top of the stairs, every single guest was thinking the same thing – "what a stunningly beautiful girl."
Akiza did not want to enter on her own, but her parents insisted on it. Breathing deeply, she moved to walk down the stairs. There was an absolute silence – so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Picking up the folds of her dress, she descended the stairs until she met her parents. They moved to one side and let her pass them so that all the attention was on their daughter. Akiza wished she knew what the guests were thinking, as all of them staring at her made her nervous. Zero and Sara moved to greet them at the base of the stairs and by a nod of Zero's head, the music and the party continued.
"Welcome Senator. We're pleased you decided to attend."
"Oh come now, Zero! You've known us for years – you're allowed to call us by our names." Mrs Izinski laughed.
"How nice to see you, Setsuko." Sara kissed Setsuko's cheek and then noticed Akiza standing beside her father. Having caught her gaze Zero and Sara noticed that she was looking a little lost. "You must be Akiza; I'm Sara Tanaka – how do you do?" Akiza looked up from staring at the floor and smiled hesitantly at them.
"It's a pleasure to meet you; I'm a big fan of your work Mr and Mrs Tanaka..." Mr Izinski coughed loudly and Akiza stopped talking.
"If you don't mind – perhaps we could greet some guests as there is somebody I would like my daughter to meet." Stepping to one side, the Izinski family moved forward and into the crowd but not before Sara gave Akiza a comforting smile.
"That was quite abrupt Father – was that really necessary?" Mr Izinski sighed and replied.
"Akiza, as you know I will be making an announcement later on this evening and as it's regarding you I would like you to concentrate on surrounding yourself with people that we know well because they will be the ones that you would rely on as well as us. Ah! Here they are!" They, was a group of Mr Izinski's business associates and their wives. Akiza was not impressed and all the women were staring at her like they had never seen her before. One of her father's associates and his family walked up to them and Mr Izinski introduced them.
"Setsuko, Akiza – this is Mr Maximilian Deveraux and his wife Loretta and their son, Rei."
"It's a pleasure to meet you; this is the first time that my husband has introduced his business associates to us." Mrs Deveraux smiled but remained by her husband's side, Akiza raised her eyebrow. It was clear to her who ran the Deveraux family and Maximilian did that with an iron fist.
"My dear, this evening is going to be a tremendous one – so to get into the spirit of things, why don't we all have a dance?" Mrs Izinski's eyes shone and she agreed.
"Oh, Akiza perhaps you would like to partner with Rei?" Akiza glanced at her father and seeing the look on his face, she knew there was no getting out of it.
"Of course father." Offering her hand to Rei, he led her to the dance floor ahead of their parents. Grasping her hand in his and placing a slightly uncomfortable hand on her waist, they proceeded to dance to the music. The two of them tried to have a conversation.
"So Akiza, what do you like to do in your spare time?" Rei asked casually. Akiza looked up into his cold, grey eyes and almost shivered.
"I like to read and ride horses, mostly – what about you?"
"I'm always busy preparing to run my father's company and making sure I earn lots of money." He was quite blunt about this but didn't seem bothered by it.
"I see..." Akiza felt that the conversation had ended, Rei did not.
"Money is what makes the world go round and I intend to make plenty of it. It is power after all." She looked away from his gaze and tried to focus on something else, when Rei spoke again. "I say, did you hear that there are some people from the Satellite here tonight?"
"No, I did not – they didn't gatecrash did they?" Akiza was interested but Rei snorted rudely.
"No they didn't – they were invited if you can imagine that! I wonder what possessed Mr and Mrs Tanaka to do such a thing, allowing scum like them to mix with our social group, I mean seriously!" Pulling away from him abruptly, Akiza had had enough. Rei looked at her, daring her to make a scene and Akiza, realising this, spoke quietly but firmly.
"If you'll excuse me, I think I will do a turn about the room – you know to mix and meet some other people. Thank you for the dance." Bowing her head slightly, she turned and walked away, leaving Rei in the middle of the dance floor smirking to himself.
"What an interesting woman, she might be stunning but she's not stupid and definitely has a mind of her own – we'll have to get rid of that!"
Cordi took a deep breath as she got out from her car. Smiling at the man holding the door open for her, she proceeded to gather her dress and head towards the entrance of the Tanaka household. Handing her invitation to the doorman, she was directed up the stairs. Reaching the top, she realised that she was still wearing her cloak but she continued until she arrived at the announcer. He looked at her and his eyes widened. Feeling a little nervous she spoke.
"I'm so sorry, but I seem to have brought my cloak up here with me – is there anywhere I can put it until I'm ready to leave? The announcer blinked a couple of times and then replied.
"Don't you worry, just give it to me and I'll put it with the rest downstairs." Cordi smiled and unfastened her cloak and handed it to the man. Hanging the teal coloured velvet cloak over his arm, he spoke again.
"What's your name? I need to know, so I can announce you." Cordi swallowed silently. "This is it. I hope I'm making the right decision..."
"Miss? Is something wrong?" Cordi shook her head and cleared her throat.
"My name is... Cordelia de Chevalier." The announcer gasped in shock and just stood there staring at this young woman who claimed to be a member of one of the most prestigious families in New Domino City, a family that hadn't been seen or heard from for twelve long years.
While Cordi was trying to get introduced, the group were having issues of their own.
"Where's Yusei?" Bruno couldn't see if he'd come back in from the grounds. Jack looked around and finally spotted him standing by a table.
"Hey Yusei! Is everything alright?" Crow and the others walked up to him.
"I'm fine, just came back in. Did I miss anything?"
"Only the entrance of the Senator and his family but that's not really important anyway." Jack wasn't that phased by the Senator's presence and it showed.
"Speaking of the devil, here he comes." Crow narrowed his eyes as the Senator made his way over. He was flanked by his business associates and together they looked slightly menacing. The guys grouped together and stood their ground. The Senator smiled but it was a smile that didn't reach his eyes. Cold and calculating, it made the girls nervous.
"I believe we haven't been introduced. My name is..."
"Hideo Izinski, Senator of New Domino City. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance." Emma spoke and looked up to meet the Senator's eyes, they narrowed.
"Likewise, but please do not speak out of turn again Miss Ridgemount." Blushing, Emma nodded and moved to stand next to Crow who comfortingly put his arm around her waist. Noticing this, Mr Izinski tutted and shook his head. Yusei stepped forward and held out his hand.
"Good evening Senator, I'm Yusei Fudo." Mr Izinski looked down at Yusei's hand but grasped it and they shook hands.
"Good evening. I finally get to meet the Duel King, how interesting." Before Yusei could say anything Jack spoke up.
"How is it interesting exactly?" Mr Izinski turned and looked at Jack for a moment before replying.
"I haven't met people from the Satellite before, you know because they're considered second class citizens." The guys were not impressed but Mr Izinski's business associates laughed.
"Senator, people from the Satellite are good hearted and respectable, but you need to give them a chance and stop treating them like you think they're scum!" Emma implored to him. Mr Izinski's eyes flashed and he grew red in the face.
"How dare you speak to me like that Miss Ridgemount? I thought young, well brought up women like yourselves would understand our reasoning and that you would follow our advice and stay away from people like them, who are Satellite scum!" Mr Izinski advanced forward, towards Emma in a very frightening manner.
"That's enough! Sir, we're guests in somebody else's house and we don't want to cause any trouble and I'm certain you don't want to cause a scene, do you?" Yusei said calmly. Mr Izinski's head snapped around to look at the young man and he glared.
"You should have thought about that before you attended this event. Mark my words Mr Fudo, I'm very powerful and I can make things happen. You haven't a chance in hell of beating me at my own game."
"With all due respect Sir – we're not playing a game here and it's high time you realise that you can't keep controlling people through fear, otherwise you'll have a disaster on your hands." Before Mr Izinski could say anything Zero and Sara were seen walking to the base of the stairs waiting for their next guest, who was to be announced. The announcer cleared his throat loudly. The room was deadly silent, even quieter than before.
"My Lords, my Ladies. It is my honour to announce to you and I take great pleasure in doing this, Miss Cordelia de Chevalier, of New Domino City." Everyone saw the announcer bow deeply until a figure came into sight, a tiny figure at that. Everyone gasped as she came into the light and descended the stairs.
The young woman could not have been more than nineteen years old. She was quite small, standing roughly at about five foot tall and she had the most luscious blonde hair that shone like gold in the light. With her slender figure, her ball gown was emphasising everything. The ball gown itself was a white strapless, sweetheart cut creation that had a full skirt, with at least two layers of smooth satin and it was covered with a light dusting of pearls. To finish it off there was an emerald green ribbon tied around the waist of the dress with the bow on the side. The ribbon matched the woman's eyes perfectly which were framed by thick, dark eyelashes. There was no doubt in anyone's mind, this woman was the most beautiful person they had ever seen and if she was who she said she was – it wasn't surprising.
"Is it just me or was that girl absolutely beautiful?" Sophie was wide-eyed and she couldn't help but stare at her as the girl walked past them and into the crowd.
"Don't worry, we agree with you!" The three girls all turned to look at their boyfriends with raised eyebrows.
"Oh really?" The guys slowly realised their mistake.
"What did we say again?" Jack asked Crow.
"I think it was that she's really ugly – isn't that right guys?" Crow nudged Yusei and Bruno. Yusei laughed.
"I don't have to get involved in this – I'm single!"Crow glared at him.
"I think you're right guys – she's definitely ugly." Bruno confirmed the statement and the girls smiled.
"Do any of you lovely ladies wish to dance?" Bruno, Jack and Crow all bowed low and held out their hand. Sharing a look that only females would be able to understand, they nodded.
"I'm sure we can give them one dance..." Carly laughed as Jack whirled her away.
"Or maybe two..." Sophie said as Bruno led her to the middle of the dancefloor. Emma and Crow were a little more reluctant.
"Are you going to be alright Yusei?" They didn't really want to leave him on his own but Yusei waved them away.
"I'll be fine – go and dance!" Yusei pushed them and they joined the huge number of guests who were dancing, leaving Yusei standing on his own.
Akiza, having escaped from Rei, had found some comfort by standing near the dining tables. Hearing someone coughing delicately behind her, she turned round and saw Sara Tanaka standing there with her hands folded neatly in front of her.
"Is something wrong Miss Izinski?"
"No, everything is wonderful – I just needed to be on my own for a little while."
"I see you were dancing with young Mr Deveraux?" Sara cocked her head to one side and waited for Akiza's response.
"Hmm, I mean don't get me wrong – he's handsome, wealthy and I'm sure there are plenty of women who would date him. But for me he was... he was..."
"Too pro-elite?" Akiza nodded and Sara smiled knowingly. "Unfortunately some people are like that, but remember to stand by what you believe in – that's important."
"I'm finding that harder every day and I feel that it's just going to keep getting harder." Sighing, Akiza glanced at the dancing guests with a blank look on her face. Sara had an idea.
"If you would excuse me for a minute – I will be right back!" She quickly walked away and Akiza couldn't see what she was doing or where Sara had gone. Fingering the table decorations carefully, she waited patiently.
"Here we are... Yusei this is Miss..."
"Akiza – you can call me Akiza." The young man before her must have been about twenty-two years old and he had crab- like hair that was jet black with golden streaks. His big, ocean blue eyes complimented his tanned skin perfectly but what caught her attention was the jagged criminal marker on the left side of his face – running down his cheek and emphasising his surprisingly good bone structure.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, I'm Yusei Fudo." Akiza blushed at his intense stare. There was a slight pause before Sara spoke.
"Well, I think I will leave you both so that you can get properly acquainted with each other." With a small smile and a pat on Yusei's arm, Sara left them alone. Still feeling a little flushed, Akiza awkwardly started the conversation.
"So what do you do Yusei?"
"I'm a mechanic but I'm applying for a position at New Domino University to start on their Advanced Science programme."
"Oh? Um..." At the look of surprise on Akiza's face, Yusei laughed. Blushing even more, Akiza didn't know what to say. "Why are you laughing?"
"I think you just need to relax a little more and not worry about offending me." Yusei explained.
"How did you know?"
"I could tell by the look on your face when I mentioned my application to the university." Akiza nodded apologetically.
"I just found it unusual that's all, I mean how is it that you can even apply or get in? People from the Satellite are known to not have had much of an education right?"
"That's true, but people from the Satellite only learnt what they needed to, in order to survive the daily hardships."
"So what does that mean?"
"It means that although I haven't had an official education, I've been told I have a natural understanding of science – that I get that from my parents who were top scientists in New Domino city before the Zero Reverse incident...according to Rex Goodwin anyway." Yusei's eyes were filled with pain at the mention of his parents, whom he had never met. He expected Akiza to be bored but as he looked into those velvety chocolate brown eyes of hers, he was surprised to see that she was absolutely fascinated by his story and that she could tell he was in pain when speaking about his parents. Curious about her situation, Yusei started to ask about her life.
"So Akiza – what's your home life like?"
Before she could answer, Akiza saw Rei coming through the crowd and not wanting to speak to him again or listen to him talk about himself again (which was more accurate), Akiza grasped Yusei's hand and as quickly as she could, she hurried to a side door that led to the gardens below. Yusei had never met a girl like Akiza before and he was intrigued.
"Are we running from something in particular?" Yusei asked as he shut the door behind him.
"Somebody, I don't want to speak to again – so come on!" Smiling, Akiza made her way down the stone steps until she and Yusei reached the path. "I've wanted to wander around the gardens anyway and now is the perfect time to do so."
"In that case, allow me to be your guide as I have already explored the grounds but not accompanied by a beautiful lady, such as yourself." Akiza looked over her shoulder at Yusei, who was becoming more and more interesting to her as the minutes went by and when he smiled a charming but sincere smile, she felt her heart flutter. Taking his proffered arm and linking it with hers, they proceeded to walk through the gardens underneath a clear, evening sky decorated with millions of shining stars.
The man watched as the young woman gracefully walked about the room. It appeared as if she was looking for something. Coming across a door that lead out onto the balcony she looked around her to see if anyone was watching and with her dress trailing behind her, her petite hands picked up the satin folds of her dress, she descended the few stairs to the balcony. Cocking his head to one side, he was curious about what she was going to do. Deciding to follow her, he made his way across the room and quietly moved towards the balcony. He encountered her, resting her hands on the balcony edge and he was left breathless by her outstanding beauty. This was going to make it harder for him.
Hearing someone behind her, Cordi turned around and saw a very handsome young man standing on the last step before reaching the balcony, looking at her. Just looking at her.
He was wearing a black tuxedo with matching trousers and this made his white dinner shirt stand out even more. Cordi also noticed that he had a cravat in his breast pocket. An emerald green one. His eyes were wandering down her body, gazing appreciatively over her flawless figure and creamy skin and moving back up to her face where his dark brown eyes settled on her green ones, Cordi's heart leaped. "Why is he staring at me?" speaking out loud she said, "Can I help you?" The man moved down from the last step and walked up to her until they were nose to nose, well Cordi's nose reached his shoulders.
"What's your name?" His voice was pleasantly low and smooth like melted chocolate. Swallowing nervously, Cordi replied.
"I'm...my name is Cordelia de Chevalier." The young man nodded.
"I thought as much, but you can never be too sure, especially in your case."She must have looked confused because the young man continued "You're a maid...and therefore not very well known." Cordi wasn't sure if she should take offence to that comment but she was starting to dislike him.
"Who are you exactly?" Raising an eyebrow at her feistiness, the young man smiled showing a set of perfect white teeth.
"My name is Hiro Gillespie; it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance" He inclined his head slightly. There was an awkward silence before Hiro spoke again. "I was hoping to bump into you at some point this evening before the announcements and it looks like my wish was granted." His gaze intensified and Cordi found herself staring into those deep brown eyes of his – almost losing herself in them.
"Well" She thought to herself "They do say that the eyes are the windows to one's soul and judging by those eyes – he must have a beautiful one." Realising that she was still staring at him she quickly turned away and looked out over the grounds. Hiro came and stood next to her but instead of looking at the view, he continued to stare at her. Feeling his gaze on her, yet again Cordi said "Mr Gillespie – do I have something on my face?
"It's Hiro and what do you mean?" Turning to face him Cordi replied.
"Well, Hiro your eyes seem to be riveted to something on my face and I was wondering what." Hiro's eyes flicked up to meet hers and he quietly said "You have a kissy mole on your cheek and it's driving me insane." Cordi was surprised and then she smiled and looked back at the view.
"You said you wanted to meet me before the announcements – why?"
"I just wanted to introduce myself to you before I make an announcement that all of the elite society will be very interested in. I also needed to judge whether or not you're the person I thought you were." Then a thought hit Cordi.
"Over the last few days I have been sensing the fact that someone has been following me – was that you?"
Akiza and Yusei were wandering around the immaculate and blossoming gardens and they ended up at the marbled fountain at the front entrance of the mansion. The fountain was on and the water looked as pure as Akiza's skin – which Yusei noticed, was looking smooth and silky.
Running her hands over the stone seating on the fountain, Akiza gathered the folds of her dress and sat down, spreading her ball gown around her. Motioning for Yusei to join her, he sat down beside her and as if it were the most natural thing to do, they both turned to face each other and took the other's hands in their own. It made quite an impression on Yusei – seeing Akiza's little hands that were so soft in his big hands that were no longer covered by his usual brown gloves.
"So enlighten me then. Who were we running from?" Akiza laughed.
"The son of my father's business partner. He was a little creepy."
"How so?"
"Unlike you, his eyes were very cold and it looked like he was planning something when he looked at me – it always sent shivers down my spine." As if to emphasise that comment, Akiza shivered and felt Yusei pull her a little closer.
"And my eyes are like that?" Akiza immediately shook her head and a few tendrils of her hair came down from its elaborate hairstyle and framed her face- making it appear even softer.
"Definitely not. Your eyes are really warm and they tell me that you are a good hearted person which is more than I can say for Mr Deveraux, but there is some sadness in those eyes of yours too.." A silence fell between them and then clearing his throat, Yusei stood up and offered his hand to Akiza.
"May I have the pleasure of this dance with you?" Pleased and touched that she was actually being asked instead of told, Akiza accepted with a smile and a blush. Placing one hand on her waist and holding her left hand in his and feeling her right hand touch his shoulder, the proceeded to dance slowly to get used to the other's proximity.
"You're very good at this- which is surprising."
"Martha, our foster parent, gave us a lesson or two when we were younger and some of it has remained in my memory, I guess." Yusei said wryly. Akiza laughed and allowed herself to be turned around – her dress flowing around her.
Cordi was still waiting for a response from Hiro and he, looking down into those flashing but somewhat fearful eyes of hers, knew he couldn't lie to her.
"Yes, I have been following you these last few days." Unable to believe what she was hearing, Cordi was silent. Hiro continued. "But I have a reason – honest!" At this remark Hiro sounded like he desperately wanted Cordi to believe him, no, he needed her to believe him.
"Okay, so what's this reason then?" Sighing Hiro walked to the edge of the balcony, looked out at the view and realising that there was no easy way of telling her this, he told her straight. If anyone from the ballroom had looked at them both on the balcony, they would have been shocked at the ever changing expression on Cordi's face as Hiro told her the story that she needed to hear and the one he knew would scar her already bruised heart.
Cordi stepped back with her hand over her mouth – she was in complete shock. "Is everything you've just told me true? If it's not and you're lying to me..."
"It's true." Hiro reassured her. At this confirmation, Cordi promptly burst into tears and as if by instinct, Hiro pulled her towards him and let her cry out all her tears.
"I can't believe this is happening – and after all this time." Sobbing, Cordi turned her head into Hiro's shoulder and he rested his cheek on the top of her head until eventually her sobs subsided.
"Do you feel better now?" Looking into her green eyes, Hiro wished he hadn't caused her this pain. Cordi nodded and Hiro cupped her face in his hands, where he gently wiped away her tears with the pads of his thumbs, until her face was dry and streak free. "Why don't we go back inside?" he asked gently.
"I don't know – everyone will stare at my face which is probably all blotchy and at my red nose." Hiro shook his head.
"I think you look beautiful and that's what everyone else will see. Besides, a nose with rose pink colouring won't change that!" he said with a wink.
"I guess." An idea popped into Hiro's head.
"Why don't we have a dance before I make the announcement – it'll help you relax, trust me." Looking at Hiro, Cordi instantly felt at ease and even though she wasn't feeling entirely sure with her decision, she agreed.
"Sure, I think you may be right." With that, Hiro offered his arm to Cordi and together they walked into the ballroom with Cordi's heart beating that little bit faster and as they walked, Cordi thought to herself "I was right about his eyes – they are indeed the windows to a beautiful soul."
Dancing together, Yusei and Akiza made quite a sight. Being complete opposites – they were a wonderful contrast. Yusei with his tanned, olive skin and jet black hair (not to mention the highlights) and his blue eyes and Akiza with her pale, luminescent skin, dark red hair and big, expressive brown eyes. From inside the mansion, they could hear music playing – a song that made them become much more aware of the other.
We were strangers
starting out on a journey
Never dreaming
What we'd have to go through
Now here we are
And I'm suddenly standing
At the beginning with you
No one told me
I was going to find you
Unexpected
What you did to my heart
When I lost hope
You were there to remind me
This is the start
And...
[Chorus]
Life is a road
And I want to keep going
Love is a river
I wanna keep flowing
Life is a road
Now and forever
Wonderful journey
I'll be there
When the world stops turning
I'll be there
When the storm is through
In the end I wanna be standing
At the beginning with you
With the moonlight shining down on them as they danced next to the water fountain, the light caught the water drops as they fell and made them shine almost as bright as stars. A breeze came about and sifting through the trees, the blossom petals floated all around them gently landing on the ground – almost like confetti.
[Bridge]
I knew there was somebody somewhere
Like me alone in the dark
Now I know my dream will live on
I've been waiting so long
Nothing's gonna tear us apart
Life is a road
And I want to keep going
Love is a river
I wanna keep flowing
Life is a road
Now and forever
Wonderful journey
Thinking to herself as she danced with the handsome Yusei, "It's strange, when people first see Satellite residents like Yusei – all they really see are their markers. In fact it was what I first saw but never as a negative thing. If anything, I see it as something that proves Yusei fights for what he believes in and I can't deny that it makes him very attractive..." Akiza smiled a beautiful smile that lit up her entire face and this sight made Yusei breathless. Spinning her around, Yusei pulled her closer to him and her arms came up to rest on his broad shoulders.
Hey ay ay
Life is a road and I wanna keep going
Love is a river I wanna keep going on...
Starting out on a journey
Life is a road and I wanna keep going
Love is river I wanna keep flowing
In the end I wanna be standing
At the beginning with you...
Yusei and Akiza finished their dance reluctantly and leaning his forehead against hers, Yusei didn't want to leave the gardens to rejoin the other guests in the ballroom. Sighing, Akiza removed her arms from around his neck where they had naturally put themselves during their dance and placed her hands on his chest – feeling his strong muscles beneath them. She liked the feeling of his head touching hers and couldn't help but notice that Yusei's lips were inches from her own, which were looking soft and very much kissable according to Yusei.
"Is he going to kiss me? Do I even want him to kiss me? I think I do..." Akiza had so many thoughts running through her mind that the next thing she knew, Yusei had cupped her face in his hands and lowered his mouth those last few inches to gently touch her lips – in a kiss that left her wanting more. And more he gave her – in a kiss that made her breathless and curious.
Raising his head, Yusei could see that he had caused Akiza to blush heavily and after she had slowly opened her eyes, he knew that he couldn't simply stop at a kiss or two but before he could do anything, Akiza had moved away.
"Perhaps we should be heading back – it's almost time for the announcements." Yusei agreed and he smiled at her before he replied.
"You look so beautiful standing there in the silver moonlight... no, you are beautiful." And at that, Yusei offered her his arm and together they walked into the ballroom and back to reality – something they both wished, they didn't have to do. In ten minutes, both their lives will have changed forever. Not that they knew or were expecting that...
Zero and Sara were standing on the last step of the stairs in their ballroom. Indicating that the music should stop, the room fell silent. Clearing his throat, Zero spoke.
"Ladies and gentleman and our honoured guests. It has been our pleasure to host this party once again for you all to enjoy and it is an honour, as always when we have the Senator and his family with us." Zero paused and Sara continued.
"As you are all aware, we are now going to pass you over to two of our guests, who have each got a very important announcement to make." Sara, indicating to someone standing by the side of the stairs – allowed them to come forward and stand in front of an eagerly awaiting crowd. Zero and Sara moved to one side and the room was gazing up at the handsome young man, who stood before them.
"Thank you, Mr and Mrs Tanaka. Citizens of New Domino City, I stand before you to present some wonderful and yet shocking news. Earlier this evening, all guests were shocked by the attendance of a certain guest whose family has been lost for the last twelve years." The young man paused and Yusei and the gang could feel the tension of the other guests. "My news is that, even though twelve years is a long time, it's not long enough to destroy a family. As it happens, a member of that family is here tonight and I would like to introduce you to Miss Cordelia de Chevalier." A few mutters and murmurs were heard but the room became silent once more as the young woman from before came and stood next to the man.
"Mr and Mrs de Chevalier, my parents, as members of an elite family were forcibly removed from the country because they disagreed with the decisions regarding the ENERD Reactor and the matter of enslaving the Satellite residents. Roman and Rex Goodwin could not have anyone standing in their way and my parents had to be dealt with. Having their money removed from their accounts, it had been used by Goodwin to fund the programme that my parents disagreed with. However, that is to change due to the current situation..." Cordi spoke and her voice was relatively low but powerful and her eyes flashed dangerously as she expected the guests to argue against her. Yusei and the rest of the guests couldn't help but admire her. Cordi continued to speak after taking a deep breath. "To help my parents and myself get through this emotional time will be Mr Gillespie...um Hiro." Flushing slightly she looked at him out of the corner of her eye and smiled at the rest of the guests. Inclining his head and when Cordi gave a small curtsey, Hiro helped her down off the step and moved to one side where Zero and Sara stood – welcoming her with hugs, kisses and big smiles. The guests applauded and talked among themselves.
"Well done my dear – that was beautiful and your parents would be proud of your first public speech!" Sara was impressed by the way Cordi had handled the situation. While the women talked, Zero took Hiro to one side. "You're that private investigator that was hired to find Cordelia aren't you?" Hiro raised his dark eyebrows in question but then nodded.
"Yes, it took me a while but I managed it – I found her." With an expression on his face that Zero couldn't read, he nodded and shook his hand.
"You and Cordelia should come over for lunch in a couple of days time – there is plenty to discuss." Hiro nodded and smiled as they rejoined the two women.
Jack looked at Yusei and whilst the girls were talking about what had happened, he spoke to him – his Australian accent more pronounced.
"So, where's this girl you met and disappeared off with then?"
"I don't know Jack, we came inside and as I was looking for you guys – she'd disappeared...it's strange." Jack could tell that this bothered Yusei and Jack being the blunt guy he is responded.
"Maybe she realised you weren't compatible with her..."
"Whaaat?" Crow and Bruno joined them.
"Dude, don't lie to me – you can't hide it, your face is like an open book!"
"What are you on about Jack?" Crow was confused and Bruno looked thoughtful.
"Yusei here has gone and fallen for a city girl..."
"What?" Crow was shocked but Jack continued.
"...Who's now disappeared."
"Huh?"
"You heard right..." Jack, Crow and Bruno all turned to look at Yusei. He was about to speak when Zero and Sara had taken their place to introduce the next announcement.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, we would like to give you Mr Hideo Izinski, Senator of New Domino City with an important announcement." The man who walked up to speak in front of everyone looked slightly different from the man the group had met earlier; it was almost as if he'd undergone some form of personality transformation. Clearing his throat, the room took the hint and fell silent.
"My fellow businessmen, Ladies and Gentleman and others..."
"No need to ask who "others" are..." snorted Crow. The group shared knowing looks and Carly shushed Crow because she was trying to catch what the Senator was saying via her voice recorder. Hideo continued.
"As you know, I have a business partner – Maximilian Deveraux. Following discussions we've had, we have come to a decision regarding the future of the business." Maximilian had since joined Hideo on the step, both of them giving off an incredible amount of power.
"We have been deciding on the best way to keep the business within both families and have come to a decision and we hope that you will all celebrate with us." Maximilian said whilst smiling. At this point both men were joined by their wives.
"We are delighted to announce the engagement of my daughter and Maximilian's son – forever combining the houses of Izinski and Deveraux together. We present to you the happy couple, Rei Deveraux and Akiza Izinski!" Descending the stairs was the couple and as they came to stand next to their parents, Yusei immediately recognised the young woman.
"It's...it's her!" The group all turned to look at Yusei in shock.
"That's the girl you met? SHIT!" That said it all and the group turned to watch the scene unfold. Akiza and Rei had moved to stand together and Rei had pulled out a velvet box and taking out the ring – he placed it on her wedding finger, sealing the agreement. Together they turned to face the guests who applauded but none of them missed the look of despair on Akiza's face – neither did the group.
"She looks happy..." Crow commented.
"Father, why didn't you tell me about this earlier? You've just sprung this on me – not to mention the city." Akiza said quietly. Hideo Izinski laughed loudly and the guests all waited to hear what the Senator was going to say.
"I wanted the city to see your reaction first – that's why I didn't tell you sooner!" Hideo Izinski was over the moon as were Rei's parents and Akiza's mother, Akiza remained silent. There was an awkward pause before the guests started clapping hesitantly but they knew if Mr Izinski had wanted to see Akiza's true reaction and feelings on the matter, the New Domino could possibly say that he got more than he bargained for, as Akiza's face fell.
Okay guys - that's Chapter 4 done! I really hope you liked it and I apologise again that it's so long but I wanted to put in plenty of detail because of it's importance. I also apologise for the really rubbish romantic scene with Yusei and Akiza (It was so hard to write!).
Teeny x