Hi!

Woohoo! Course Card Distribution is a success, and I thank God for the great blessing. (Yes, I'm still on the Dean's List!)

Now, all I have to worry about is next term XD Because, my freaking majors are more harder than it used to. (Swear)

Anyways, I make a fuss about grades because it could be a cause as to why I may not update anymore FOR A VERY LONG TIME. (in short, my parents might ban me T-T)

Of course, the issue in The Heart Of The Crimson Dragon wasn't that. It was definitely personal.

(for some reason, I kind of wonder how I'm able to manage school work and writing :/ Will I even be able to handle this kind of lifestyle next term XD)

To be honest, I was supposed to make a side story, but I kind of find it difficult right now, and for some reason I think it would be better to create it with someone. (yes, a joint fic, which would definitely be my first if I ever did one) I'm still thinking of tapping the person for it at the same time reconsidering, because it can be bothersome for her. Another reason for my reluctance is it's kind of against my own standards for the fic (the plot of the side story), though it is about Autumn Tryst itself (not really important, but more for character development?). But, oh well, we'll see. If you guys would want to see that then tell me, and I'll see what I can do :)

Moving on, I'd like to thank those who reviewed:

Crystal-Wolf-Guardian-967

1supergirl4

The Silver Magician of Chaos

SnapeisLoyal

Anemos

and those who have read, faved, and subscribed!

Know what, going back to the time when I was thinking of creating Searching and this fic makes me wanted to continue Searching again. Sadly, I forgot how I wrote the summary for Searching back then XD, and if ever I do write it again I have to retrace back to my track of mind back then to achieve the goal of the story, and regain inspiration (which is highly possible). But, I wonder if the readers (who have read it) would still want to read it XD I mean, I did say that I would abandon it because it's an AU, but after reading a few AU's made me wanna write at least one again.

Anyways, I really feel like starting something new after this XD and now, it can be rewriting Searching, another sequel for this, or definitely something from scratch. (which would be the story about what my friend, Sister Of The Pharoah suggested me)

Anyways, if you feel like suggesting, I made up a poll where you can vote in my profile XD

Anyway, enjoy this brand new chapter!

Whoops, I forgot, I've never done a disclaimer for the this fic ever o.o

So, I shall say that Yugioh! 5ds doesn't belong to me. However, Hikari, Clyde and Ares does :p

Okay, that's all!

The Heart of the Crimson Dragon: Autumn Tryst

-Chapter 10-

It's been days since Hikari, Clyde and Ares' stay with Yusei, Crow and Jack. For the three guys, though Hikari and the rest are in a dire circumstance, it did help them gain a better a life as Hikari and Clyde proposed to help them in regards to their utility bills as a compensation for letting them stay.

Cylde would often hang out with Crow as he would help Crow in his Black Bird Delivery Services. Jack still does his daily routine, whilst Yusei is still staying at the garage and is often assisted by the four-year-old Ares who has somehow become his apprentice, as he grew fond of the child himself that has shown great liking to gadgets, and repairing and making them per se. On the other hand, Hikari also stays by Yusei's side as she most of the time spend her time on the computer, online to deal with school and managing the company. Though it wasn't the same, it did somehow reminded Yusei of his times while he was still in Satelite where everything was just plain and simple.

However, despite the serenity of the present situation, there was still a mind that hasn't been appeased—Yusei Fudo's.

Like the usual, with his usual quietness he has once again worked on their D-wheels specifically Jack's and his, since Crow is going to use his for his Delivery Services, and would just work on it when he's done. However, as he work on it, he can't help but ponder on Ghost, or rather Yliaster who has been the source of these Ghosts that has caused havoc not only in Hikari's life, but Neo Domino per se.

'Ghost. I may have defeated you twice, but that isn't enough. I was only able to do that with the help of Crow, Jack and Hikari.' He thought as he let out a sigh, whilst he tried to tweak on Jack's engines. 'Synchro Killer.'

"Hey, Yusei." A deep low voice tried to call his name, however due to the concentration on his thoughts and what he's doing, his ears seemed to have been blocked away from the outside world.

'Unlike the rest, my deck mainly relies on Synchro Summoning. Crow, despite him relying on Synchros, he can still win and pull off a combo with his Blackwing-Aurora of the Northern Lights. Jack even without Synchro Summoning can always overpower his enemies, while Hikari can always rely on other monsters like her Levia-Dragon Daedelus, despite her reliance on Synchro Summoning.'

"Uhm, Yusei?" Another male voice called, now with a concerned tone.

'True, I may have Turret Warrior, but I don't think that I can always rely on just one card. All cards must work and have great synergy, and no matter what card it is, it can still pull-off a win regardless of the situation. I need to find a new way of dueling.'

"Yusei, you okay there?" This time it was a feminine voice, as he felt something tug on to his jacket. He finally snapped back to reality as he saw concerned sapphire eyes staring at his azure ones, whilst a small hand kept on tugging on his dark blue jacket.

Though his mind may be in disarray, he was still able to keep his composure as he gave a calm reply. "Yeah, I'm fine."

"Are you sure? We've been calling you over and over for God-knows how many, and you didn't even nod or whatever. We even have to ask Hikari to wake you up from your daze." Jack exclaimed in complete annoyance, as it made him heave a sigh. Yes, he may have been annoyed, but he definitely knows that something's on. I mean, seeing him like that for almost a year is definitely suffice to signal him that he has a problem.

"I'm sorry, I was just engrossed into to improvising this thing, since I've been working on it for days and I haven't been successful. So, what is it?" Jack sighed, 'Yes, of course, expect Yusei to admit that he has a problem.'

"Anyways, I was about to ask, Crow and I have been wondering, I mean sure we've been training for almost a year now for the upcoming tournaments, especially WTGP, but you haven't decided on a partner yet. And it's already weeks from now."

"Wow, so you guys are joining that too!" Clyde exclaimed in amusement, as he sat on the table with Crow as they chowed down their breakfast.

"Yeah, why? You guys aren't?" Crow asked with a skeptical brow raised on the brunette.

"Hmm, we weren't really able to consider joining with all the commotion going on. But, I guess, it could be fun."

"So, Yusei, what it'll it be? Registration is a just a week away." Jack asked once more. "I mean, it's just that you could pick me, or Crow. If not any of us, then we can either partner up or search for other partners. To increase our chances of winning through it." Yusei just continued to stare at him seriously, with Ghost in mind he definitely can't make sound decisions right now.

"I'm still thinking, unlike the WRGP where the three of us can work together, I just can't pick you or Crow or anybody else, because WTGP is all about partner collaboration. True, that our bonds could definitely bring us to great heights, but I'm still trying to discover my true potential I guess." Yusei stated as he just shrugged, whilst he went back to fixing Jack's Wheel of Fortune.

"Is that what you really wanted to say, or is it because Ghost has hampered your decisions?" Jack suddenly blurted causing Yusei to just stare at him for a while, then quickly stared back to what he was working on again. 'Sigh, I guess they really just no me that well, huh?'

"So, that's it, huh?" As Jack heaved a sigh. "I understand. Anyways, I'll be going." With that Jack just completely left the room as he stomped away to the front door, off to his usual routine: drinking coffee at the nearby cafe.

"Know what, Jack's right you know. I mean, you're right that you have to choose your partner carefully, but the tournament's near. You also need to practice with the partner you're going to choose. Anyway, Clyde and I are late so we're heading out now, bye!" With that Crow and Clyde quickly hopped on to their D-wheels as they dashed away from the place, leaving a perplexed Yusei, a worried Hikari and a clueless Ares behind.

Yusei just sat there on the ground, just beside Jack's D-wheel. Jack was right, it was Ghost, no, rather Yliaster that has affected his mind greatly. Sure, the WTGP might not be related to that, but if he can't beat Ghost, how could even face world-class opponents that has the capacity to seal off Synchro Summoning?

"You okay?" Hikari asked as she sat beside him. "Is Ghost really bothering you?" She asked, almost whispering as she placed a hand on his shoulder, as her sapphire orbs stared at him filled with concern. Ares once again tugged on his jacket, as he also gave him a concerned look with his dark azure eyes.

"Is Daddy not feeling good?" The little add uttered. He may look apathetic, but like Yusei, his eyes speaks a lot than the expression per se.

Why is Ares calling Yusei daddy? Well, he may be a kid, but with the way he sees the intimacy or rather closeness between his so-called mom and Yusei, he just got the feeling that maybe they could be together, like any child would assume seeing people of two opposite genders having a very close relationship. Other than that, with his own fondness and great liking for the raven-haired teenager and the way they resemble each other in regards to features, Ares felt that he could actually identify himself with Yusei prior to the loss of his own father. Sure he was close to Clyde, but he saw Clyde more of a big brother than as a father.

Yusei just cracked a small smile at little Ares as he gave him a pat on the head.

"I'm fine, Ares. I just got a few things at mind, right now." He stated as he heaved an almost unnoticeable sigh. Though he may be able to smile for the child, Hikari could definitely feel the uneasiness that his aura is emitting.

"Hey, know what, maybe we should go out?" Hikari said in the most elated tone that she can muster, as she stood up whilst pulling Yusei's hand up.

"But, aren't you hiding yourself from the public?" He asked, as Hikari just chuckled at him.

"Silly, it's fine to go out once in a while. Plus, even if I am the so-called whatever prodigy," She stated the last two words sarcastically. "I bet people won't recognize me right way with this anyway." She then pulled out her pink specs and placed it on her face, as she tied her mid-length blond hair into a pony-tail. "Plus, I've been going out tons under the sun, even before I moved in with you guys."

"Weren't you busy just now? I mean, I just saw you doing stuff a while ago on the PC." It wasn't that Yusei was trying to come up with reasons, but he just thought that he wouldn't want to be bothersome. Despite, his good intentions it just made Hikari just sigh in disappointment.

"It's okay, I can manage later. Unless, you don't want to go out with me." Her lips started forming a pout, as her eyes reflected a bit of her dismay.

"Of course, not. I just don't want to bother you, especially since you're busy managing your company and everything." He stated, as he reached for her hand. Hikari then grinned playfully in response.

"Then what are you waiting for let's go already! Ares you can come too!"

It didn't took more than an hour, but being outside was nice. As the trio felt the nice outdoor breeze, whilst they basked the sun's warm rays. It was just a wonderful day out.

Hikari and Yusei just sat at Neo Domino's Central Park's bench, which is situated in front of nice fountain. The ground was carpeted with emerald green grass, as some trees stood at random places. It was definitely simple yet wonderful, a place great for the general to hang out at.

They really don't talk much, as they would just watch Ares play on his own on the playground situated not so far from the fountain. Though it may seem awkward, the silence wasn't deafening at all as they just enjoyed each other's company as Hikari laid her head on his shoulder. She just knows for a fact that it would be better if Yusei would be left alone to think than rather talk it out.

Admittedly, the change of environment did help him as he felt more calm and appeased, whilst he let his eyes wander to every detail that he can see on the park whether it would be Ares playing on the playground or the vast azure skies.

True, the solutions to the problem didn't come striking him immediately like lightning, but he was able to realize that other than he as is right now wouldn't be able to deal with Ghost alone, he lacks the confidence, or rather the courage itself if he'd face another encounter.

I mean, sure Machine Emperor Wise Infinity might be an instant Synchro Killer, but it is not an invincible monster. Synchro Summoning at the wrong time would definitely be a big disadvantage, as he also reflected on the triple Tag Duel with the three Ghost, it was still possible to beat them with Synchro Summoning that is done at the right time, but more effective if he doesn't Synchro Summon at all.

Yes, it may be possible that he could device a new deck that includes no Synchros too remove his disadvantage against Ghost; however, playing something that is not your style, wouldn't it be really much, or rather more of a disadvantage?

True, all decks can be playable to any person that knows how to duel, but not all decks are compatible to all people because of a person's certain playing style. In short, a deck is something that reflects the user itself. It has to be something that jives well with not just your personality and style but you as a person per se.

Deck building isn't easy as just playing what is the Meta or the world's best deck and even if it would be a deck made especially for novices, it's all about the deck and user synergy.

However, with the way his deck is, despite its great defenses could he have been able to hold up before he could prepare his hand for a massive Synchro attack?

That he isn't sure. But, possible at the same time risky.

"Feeling better?" The blonde suddenly uttered as she beamed him a calm smile.

"Yeah, I guess. Going out did make me feel a bit better."

"Just curious. Have you ever thought of choosing a partner yet?"

"In all honesty, I haven't thought of an appropriate one yet." Hikari then reached towards his hand as she tried to clasp it completely with her small hand.

"I know that I may not be as strong as your friends, but if ever you're cramming on making a decision and you have no one, I'm just here for you." Yusei smiled at her statement as he let go of her hand that's trying to hold his, and instead placed it protectively over her shoulders.

"Thanks." He stated, but the moment he got a view of his deck of cards placed securely on his Duel Disk for some reason, an idea suddenly popped into his mind, as if he had a Eureka-type of experience. 'A duel. I may not be able to find the answer by just thinking, but maybe...'

"Hikari, I hope you don't mind, but is it alright if we dueled?"

Weeh! It's done!

In all honesty, it took me time on how I'd compose the chapter! :p

Yes, it's a brand new arc! I just thought that it would be good enough to advance the story and get into the juicy parts! XD

So, anyway I hope that you enjoyed the latest chapter! ^^,

To be honest, I could have made it longer but I just thought that it would be better to end it there. So, that's why it was sort of cut short.

Anyway, please do review! XD

TC

Review Reply Section:

Anemos- Once again thanks for the lovely review! XD Well, since I got the idea from you, I might as well dedicate it to you XD

To be honest, after I've read your review I just can't stop thinking about its silliness to the point that I just have to include it in the chapter itself XD

Anyway, I'm quite happy to hear that you've enjoyed reading it despite the fact that it was emotional rather than being romantic XD And Jack being territorial, I have to agree with that so much XD (lol you made me remember where Jeager tried to steal Jack's ramen XD that was so epic! His face was definitely priceless! XD)

Lol, true. I mean, if as a writer of the story I'm not satisfied with my fic how much would the readers would be satisfied? (which applies to all matters happening in the universe XD)

And yes, it is draining! T-T writing is draining T-T. I remember so well when I was writing THOCD, every time I compose a chapter I felt that my brain turned into mash or drained to its last drop T-T (well, it could have been due to the stress I undergo during the day because at that time I usually compose and post the chapter during Fridays, and on that time my Fridays schedule composes of three subjects that is continuous. Other than continuous, all of them lasts for three freaking hours omg)

However, at the moment it isn't XD Because, I'm definitely enjoying it XD

Anyways, I hope that this chapter was suffice to satisfy you along with the rest of the readers :p

TC!

-jory014