Echoes of Eternity

by Enigma2187

Meet Kazuyuki Sora, a somewhat skilled duelist attending Duel Academy. Unlike his peers, Sora doesn't dream of the Pro Leagues; he wishes for a stable job and a comfortable life. But as personal conflicts intensify and ideals are put to the test, a greater threat looms, blurring the boundaries of Light and Dark. Will Sora's unconventional approach be a strength or a liability? (OC)

7. Resonance

AN: I had used the anime effect of Overload Fusion here, just a heads up.

---

Alexis paced the room, her thoughts consumed by the palpable tension between Sora and Jaden.

The usually bustling Slifer Red dormitory was eerily silent, underscoring her growing unease.

The camaraderie that once defined Sora and Jaden's friendship had been replaced by strained exchanges and uncomfortable silences.

Despite her numerous attempts to mediate, to draw them into conversations or activities that might rekindle their bond, the rift only seemed to widen.

Sora's retreat from dueling, particularly after the harrowing Shadow game where he had risked his life to protect her, was a poignant reminder of the stakes involved.

Dueling, for them, wasn't just a hobby; it was a reflection of their spirits.

And while Jaden verbally accepted Sora's decision, his eyes betrayed an inner turmoil.

Days melded into weeks, and the ripples of Sora's decision extended beyond his strained friendship with Jaden.

His once vivacious spirit seemed dulled, and a sense of isolation hung around him, perceptible to all.

Conversations around him became fraught with caution, friends avoiding any mention of dueling or the incident, treading lightly so as not to reopen old wounds.

One evening, as Alexis sat with the group, the air felt thick with unsaid words.

Syrus and even Chumley exchanged glances, their expressions one of shared concern.

It was clear to all - the rift between Sora and Jaden, the shadow that seemed to darken Sora's mood.

Yet, out of respect or perhaps apprehension, no one broached the topic.

Lost in thought, Alexis gazed out of the window into the evening sky.

She felt a keen sense of responsibility, not merely as a friend but as someone intimately connected to the events that had transpired.

The question haunting her was: How do you mend a bond fractured by such a traumatic experience? How do you reignite the spark in someone's eyes when they've seen such darkness?

Her fingers absently traced the Duel Disk on her arm, a tangible reminder of the battles she had faced, both on the field and off.

And in that moment, she realized there might be someone who could offer the guidance they so desperately needed.

Someone seasoned in the art of dueling, who understood its highs and lows and the shadows it could cast.

With newfound resolve, Alexis decided it was time to seek out Zane.

The path to the lighthouse was lit by a smattering of stars, but Alexis's thoughts were elsewhere.

As she walked, her mind kept drifting back to that traumatic day in the infirmary.

The sight of Sora wincing in pain, clutching his chest as though the weight of the world pressed upon it.

The sound of his labored breathing, each exhale a reminder of the fragility of life.

She could still see the deep furrows of concern on Jaden's face as he watched Sora, pain mirrored in his own eyes.

Did Jaden's understanding of Sora's decision stem from this?

Was it the realization that beyond the facade of strength and willpower, Sora's health was precarious?

Nurse Emi's words echoed in her mind, reminding her of the hidden costs of their duels.

"Sora's willpower might have masked the true extent of his condition. The recent events just might have pushed him past his limits."

It was an unsettling revelation, complicating the already tangled web of emotions and decisions.

She remembered the dread she felt seeing Sora in that condition, the chilling fear that their world of duels and spirits might claim a real-life toll.

And yet, despite the myriad warnings, both spoken and unspoken, the allure of dueling, the sense of purpose it provided, was undeniable.

Reaching the lighthouse, she hesitated momentarily, gathering her thoughts.

Even with the weight of these revelations, Alexis still believed in the potential for healing, for bridging the chasm that had opened up between Sora and Jaden.

She hoped Zane, with his years of experience and understanding of the intricate balance between dueling and life, would have some insight and some wisdom to share.

Taking a deep breath, she continued down the path to the harbor, ready to seek his guidance.

The harbor was bathed in a soft glow; its peaceful ambiance was interrupted only by the gentle lapping of the waves against the pier.

There, she saw Jasmine, engrossed in the hypnotic dance of the sea, barely noticed Alexis's approach until she was mere feet away.

"Oh! Alexis," Jasmine exclaimed, taken aback, "I wasn't expecting to see anyone out here this late. What brings you?"

Under normal circumstances, Alexis's instinct would be to brush off the question, maintaining her usual guarded demeanor.

But the strain of the past days was evident in her tired eyes. "Just waiting for someone," she replied simply.

Jasmine's eyebrows shot up in surprise, her protective side quickly taking over.

"A romantic rendezvous, eh?" she teased, her eyes sparkling with worry. "Didn't take you for the type to have late-night meetings with boys."

Flustered, Alexis quickly waved off the insinuation.

"It's not like that," she sighed, running a hand through her hair. "I just need advice. About Sora and the current situation with the gang."

Jasmine's hardened demeanor faded, replaced by a more contemplative expression.

"Sora, huh?" she mused, "Hmph. He should be proud of what he accomplished. Instead, he's moping around and refusing to practice. Now I dunno much about the pro leagues, but a guy who can fight whatever shadow thing and protect you is a man, eh?"

Alexis felt a twinge of irritation at Jasmine's cavalier attitude.

"It's not that simple, Jasmine. He's been through a lot, more than most of us can understand."

Jasmine shrugged dismissively. "Yeah, yeah. We all face challenges, Alexis. It's how we respond to them that makes us who we are."

Their exchange was punctuated by a tense silence.

The weight of the situation hung heavily between them, a stark contrast to the serene backdrop of the harbor.

Jasmine's expressive eyes caught the subtle signs of Alexis' irritation.

In her typical frank fashion, she continued, hoping to drive her point home.

"Look, I'm just sayin' if he's a real duelist, he wouldn't be hiding like this. And him not taking the initiative? Kinda lame if you ask me. Can't stand people like that."

Alexis' temper, usually so well-contained, flared at the insensitivity of Jasmine's remarks.

She had witnessed first-hand the trauma Sora went through and understood the complexities of his emotions, making Jasmine's words sting even more.

Just as she opened her mouth to snap back and enlighten her friend about the depth of the situation, the sound of footsteps disrupted the tense atmosphere.

Zane, with his confident stride and characteristic serene demeanor, approached the two of them.

His silver-blue hair shimmered under the faint harbor lights, a sight Jasmine had always had a soft spot for.

Seeing him now, up close, left her momentarily starstruck.

"Well, seems like you've got company, Alexis," Zane remarked, amusement evident in his eyes.

He had expected a private chat, but the turn of events was intriguing.

Jasmine, attempting to recover her earlier composure and ignoring the intense conversation she was having with Alexis, grinned, "Zane! Didn't think I'd see you here tonight. Alexis' keeping secrets, huh?"

Alexis shot Zane an apologetic look, her expression clearly conveying the message, "She's not leaving anytime soon, unfortunately." Zane, ever the calm and collected figure, just raised an eyebrow and replied, "Well, the more, the merrier. I don't mind if she stays."

Much to Alexis' dismay, Jasmine beamed, "Knew you were a cool one, Zane."

The weight of the conversation and the surrounding atmosphere returned, leaving Alexis, Zane, and the suddenly more invested Jasmine to navigate the complexities of the situation.

Alexis took a deep breath, ensuring she collected her thoughts before speaking. "Sora's not been the same since that Shadow duel. He saved me, but the price was too high. We all saw how traumatic it was for him. The boy who once loved dueling, who'd take on anyone at a moment's notice, now only duels for exams. And the worst part? It's creating a distance between him and everyone else."

She paused, her eyes clouded with concern, "Especially with Jaden. There's this... rift growing between them. You know how much they looked up to each other, Zane. Jaden's been trying to be understanding, respecting Sora's choice, but it's evident that he's struggling with it. Sora's vibrancy, his enthusiasm, it's dimmed, and we all notice it."

Zane, his face betraying no emotion, listened intently, his sharp eyes taking in every word. He had an inkling of the situation, but hearing it laid out like this made it even more real.

As much as he was a figure of authority and strength, even he felt a twinge of intrigue at the mention of a bright duelist like Sora losing his spark.

Besides Alexis, Jasmine's earlier defiant posture had softened.

Her gaze had dropped to her shoes, and her cheeks were tinged with a faint shade of red – a mixture of embarrassment and regret. The full weight of her earlier comments, made without truly understanding the situation, now weighed heavily on her.

"I... I didn't know," she whispered, her voice shaky.

Alexis shot her a glance, a mix of sympathy and understanding.

"It's not just about dueling, Jasmine. It's about the bonds and connections we form while doing so. And right now, one of those bonds is at the risk of breaking."

Zane leaned back, taking a moment to process what he had just been told.

His gaze shifted to the far horizon, where the lighthouse's beam faintly illuminated the dark night waters.

"I've heard the whispers, the rumors of a student being severely injured from a duel. But I never imagined it would be Sora," he murmured.

Sighing, he began, "Look, Alexis, I respect you, and I have seen firsthand how promising Sora is as a duelist. But getting involved in personal matters like these? It's something I don't do."

Before Alexis could even register his words or respond, Jasmine's voice pierced the night air, filled with a fervor Alexis hadn't expected from her.

"Are you kidding me? You've seen what he's capable of! He put everything on the line, and now you're just going to sit back? He needs some help, someone to pull him back, and you're one of the best duelists here! Who else could do it better?"

Her eyes flashed defiantly, challenging Zane.

Alexis watched in shock, trying to make sense of Jasmine's sudden fierce protective streak for Sora.

Maybe there was more to Jasmine than she'd initially thought.

But Zane didn't flinch. He met Jasmine's glare with a steady gaze, his signature cool demeanor unshaken.

After a few tense moments, he chuckled softly.

"I never said I wouldn't help. After my duel with Yuki, I wondered how different a duel would be against him. In fact, I've been thinking of challenging Sora for a while now."

Both girls stared at him, taken aback.

Alexis, still processing this unexpected twist, asked, "What do you have in mind?"

Zane's eyes twinkled mischievously, his lips curling into a sly smirk.

"Let's just say I have a plan. If he's as strong and skilled as everyone says, he'll rise to the challenge. And if not, well... he'll learn something valuable either way. But first. I need to see his will to fight."

---

The weight of the crisp white envelope bore a sense of gravity I hadn't felt in a while.

Printed in the bold, elegant font was "Zane Truesdale."

The Kaiser.

Of all people to send me a duel request, why him?

I examined the envelope once again, ensuring that it wasn't a cruel joke or a mix-up.

But no, my name was right there, clear as day: "To Kazuyuki Sora."

I was still lost in my thoughts when a fellow Ra Yellow student, Tomoya, strolled past, glancing over my shoulder.

"Whoa! Is that a duel request from... the Kaiser?!" He almost shrieked the last part, his eyes widening in shock.

Suddenly, all the ambient noise in the classroom ceased.

Heads turned, whispers began, and before I knew it, the entire class had their attention laser-focused on me and the envelope I held.

One of the few things I really dislike...

Is attention like this.

I could feel my face grow hot under their stares.

"I... I don't know why he sent this," I stammered, trying to keep my composure.

My voice didn't sound like my own.

More like the voice of a timid child caught in an act.

The murmurs grew louder, some in disbelief, others in awe.

Tomoya, oblivious to the embarrassment he had just caused, shouted, "Hey, everyone! Sora got a duel request from the Kaiser!" As if the whole class hadn't just witnessed that revelation.

By lunchtime, news had spread beyond our classroom.

Everywhere I went, students whispered, their eyes following me.

The Kaiser, Duel Academy's top dog, had challenged a Ra Yellow.

And not just any Ra Yellow, but me, someone who'd been steering clear of dueling.

The weight of those gazes and whispers felt heavier than any shadow duel.

Everywhere I turned, I could hear them talking. "Kaiser's going to wipe the floor with him," one student said. "Why would the Kaiser challenge a Ra Yellow freshman?" another added.

The words kept bouncing around in my head, playing on a loop.

Sure, I had faced down the Shadows and come out alive, but this?

Going head-to-head with the Kaiser? It was a whole different ballgame.

I mean, it's been a while since I really put my all into a duel.

Ever since that Shadow duel, I'd lost my spark.

And Zane?

He's the real deal, I've seen him duel, and there's a reason they call him the Kaiser.

Me going up against him is like a newbie trying to take on a pro.

Heck, if I could, I'd bet against myself too.

Students passed by, some giving me sympathetic looks, others snickering.

It felt like the whole school had placed their bets against me.

And honestly, I didn't blame them.

"I wonder if the Kaiser will duel in our dueling arena..." I heard a girl add.

And so, my confidence was shot, and this duel, which had become the talk of the academy, wasn't helping.

As I left the campus, I noticed a small crowd huddled together, buzzing with whispers.

Curious, I nudged my way closer and soon recognized that familiar silver blue hair.

Zane, the Kaiser himself, was in the midst of the throng, looking completely unbothered by the attention.

He stood there, arms crossed, just... waiting.

Maybe, just maybe, I thought, I could sneak past.

After all, he seemed pretty engrossed in his own thoughts.

I couldn't help but think how this felt eerily familiar.

It was like when I avoided Alexis, dodging a duel that I didn't want.

Deja vu, indeed.

I tried to make myself as inconspicuous as possible, blending with the departing students, hoping he wouldn't notice.

Just a few more steps, and maybe I'd be home free.

But luck wasn't on my side.

"Kazuyuki Sora." His voice echoed across the courtyard, causing the chattering to come to an abrupt halt.

Every eye turned to me.

I felt a pang of dread settle in.

No escape now.

Taking a deep breath, I turned to face him, trying my best to mask the anxiety bubbling within.

I felt like a cornered animal, looking for any possible escape route from the jaws of the impending duel.

Thoughts raced through my mind.

Could I fake being sick?

Feign an emergency?

Or even, if all else failed, whip up a strategy on the fly that might give me a fighting chance against the Kaiser?

My palms were sweaty, knees weak, arms heavy.

Swallowing my fear, I decided to face the music head-on.

"Was it really you who sent me the duel request?" I stammered, praying for a miracle.

Zane took a moment, his intense gaze never leaving mine.

The hushed murmurs of the crowd seemed to amplify the tension.

Then, breaking the silence, he gave a sheepish grin.

"Actually, it seems I filed that request by mistake," he said with an almost apologetic smile.

I blinked.

Once.

Twice.

The world seemed to freeze for a moment.

The collective gasp of the crowd was almost comical, followed by a wave of incredulous murmurs.

Here was the famed Kaiser, admitting to a silly error, and I couldn't help but let out a shaky laugh.

The tension was gone, replaced by a mix of relief and amusement.

Even some of the crowd chuckled at the unexpected twist.

But even as I felt the weight lifting off my shoulders, a nagging thought lingered.

Was this just a ruse, or did the Kaiser truly make a blunder?

The air grew thick with uncertainty, and slowly, the gathered crowd began to disperse, leaving just a handful of curious onlookers behind.

The news that one of the academy's titans made a "mistake" was just too anticlimactic for some to digest.

As they cleared, I noticed Zane's discreet hand gesture towards his bag, a clear sign to check my PDA when I had a moment of privacy.

Walking away, the remnants of conversations still buzzed around me, but I felt a weight lifting off my shoulders.

One minute, I had braced myself to face a duel against a legend; the next, it was all brushed off as a mere clerical error.

Yet, that brief interaction and Zane's deliberate glance made me suspect there was more beneath the surface.

Interrupting my thoughts, my PDA buzzed in my pocket, a notification from Zane that read, "Meet me at the harbor's lighthouse at dusk."

A mix of confusion and curiosity swept over me.

Why all this mystery?

Could he not have said this openly?

Or was this part of his "test"?

The lighthouse... Alexis had mentioned going there.

Were the dots connecting somehow?

As I made my way toward the dorms, the events of the day replayed in my mind.

The duel request, the surprise of the crowd, and now, the secrecy - it felt like Zane was gauging me, setting the stage for something bigger.

As dusk approached, I could only hope I was making the right moves on his chessboard.

---

Resting on my bed, I tried to process the whirlwind of events that had transpired.

Zane's unexpected challenge, his equally unexpected retraction, and now a mysterious meeting at the harbor.

Why would Zane, the top duelist at Duel Academy, have any reason to involve himself with someone like me?

I'm just a nobody, as usual.

Though the evident guess would be dueling, a nagging doubt lingered.

From everything I had heard, Zane wasn't the type to engage in idle chatter or show an interest in students beyond his own circle.

If Jaden and his crew managed without Zane's guidance, why was I any different?

Was the trauma of the shadow duel really that significant?

As these thoughts raced in my mind, a soft knock echoed in my room.

Without waiting for an answer, Misawa stepped in.

His eyes sparkled with curiosity. "Heard quite the rumor today," he began, looking directly at me. "Is it true? The Kaiser challenged you to a duel?"

Rubbing the back of my neck, I answered, "Yeah... but then he said it was a mistake."

Misawa raised his brows, clearly surprised. "A mistake? From the Kaiser? That's... unusual." He stated, clearly trying to process the news.

I shrugged, "That's what I thought too. But who knows? Maybe there's more to it."

Misawa stared thoughtfully for a moment. "Whatever it is, tread carefully, Sora. The world of professional league duelists is... different. Some are quite eccentric too."

Even though I wanted to vent out my frustrations and concerns when Misawa looked like he was about to ask another question, something in me snapped. "I need to go," I said abruptly, pushing myself off the bed. "I have a check-up at the infirmary."

Misawa's expression shifted from concern to a twinge of sadness, realizing that the conversation had taken an unexpected turn. "Of course," he said, trying to mask his disappointment with a smile, "I wouldn't want to hold you back."

"Sorry, Misawa," I replied, the weight of guilt heavy on my chest.

Without another word, I left, heading towards the infirmary.

Each step felt heavier, the thoughts of what had just transpired replaying in my mind.

I hadn't meant to snap at Misawa, but the mere thought of dueling had touched a raw nerve.

I missed the camaraderie of dueling and the joy it brought, but recent events had tainted those memories.

Deep in thought, I didn't even realize I had arrived at the infirmary until I found myself standing in front of its doors.

Taking a deep breath, I pushed them open, hoping the check-up would distract me from the turmoil inside.

Walking toward the infirmary, the weight of dueling and all the emotions associated with it pressed down on me.

Why did such a simple thing—playing a card game—have to be so emotionally heavy?

The more I thought about it, the more agitated I became the Shadow duel echoing in my mind.

That darkness, that creeping sensation, scared me.

I don't know to understand where this darkness was coming from or why it was happening...

But if I had to guess, my abrupt detachment from dueling might have deeper consequences than I had thought.

Pushing the doors of the infirmary open, my thoughts were momentarily interrupted by the sight of Nurse Emi.

With her crimson hair cascading down, she looked serene, vulnerable even, as she slept on her desk.

She was truly captivating. Without realizing it, my eyes wandered from her face, her plump lips.

Then their gaze began tracing her neck, and then unintentionally, to her chest and cleavage.

Whoa...

A rush of heat filled my cheeks, my teenage instincts momentarily taking over, hoping that she would somehow shuffle a bit so I could get a better view.

Fortunately, I snapped out of it quickly.

Get a grip, Kaz.

Jeez, who would have thought that I was a pervert?

Shaking off the shame and disgust, I gently knocked on the door, hoping the sound would rouse Emi.

But that didn't seem to awaken her.

When that failed, he called out softly, "Nurse Emi?"

But she remained deep in slumber.

And like that, I was caught in a dilemma—how could I wake her up without startling or embarrassing her, or worse, embarrassing myself even more?

I can continue to nudge her awake, only for her to whine in response.

Alright, this was new.

I had seen Nurse Emi in a lot of ways—professional, caring, a tad stern—but this was the first time I was witnessing "sleepy, don't-want-to-wake-up" Emi.

It was kind of...cute.

Crazy to think of her as 'cute' when she's usually so on top of things.

"Five more minutes…!" she mumbled, sounding like she was trying to bargain with an annoying alarm clock.

It was sort of endearing to see this side of her.

My cheeks started to feel a bit warm.

Was I actually blushing over this?

C'mon, focus, me!

She gave a big yawn, stretching her arms out while rubbing her eye.

"Aww... I don't wanna go to work today..." she murmured. "I wanna drink some more beer and eat some edamame... and sleep in."

It was hard to wrap my head around the fact that this was the same nurse who always had her act together.

Huh...

Who would have thought the well-disciplined and professional nurse be like this?

Heh, she kinda reminds me of Midori first thing in the morning when we first met.

I thought she was this cool older sister, but that couldn't be any further from the truth when she dropped her guard.

A couple of days after meeting her, I caught her raiding the fridge in her undies.

So much for first impressions.

This little moment made her feel more relatable... I think.

Emi's sleep mumbles kind of made her more... human?

I guess?

Less 'The Nurse' and more 'Just Emi.'

Plus, it gave me a bit of a break from stressing about the whole dueling thing.

Hmm, do all older women start to act like this after a while of staying single?

"I'm not old... I'm still pretty young." Emi mumbled, half awake.

I stammered out an apology.

How did she...?

Could she read my mind or something?

No way.

Emi's face turned a shade of deep red that I hadn't thought possible.

She was clearly horrified that I'd seen her like this, rambling and all.

Pulling her hands to her face, she let out a high-pitched squeal that was more 'cute flustered anime girl' than 'professional nurse.'

It took everything in me not to chuckle.

Trying to be helpful (and maybe a bit cheeky), I said, "Hey, it's not that embarrassing. I mean, I know someone around your age, Midori, who does way more... uh, interesting stuff in her sleep. Like wandering around in her underwear at 3 AM."

Emi's eyes widened, "Is this you trying to comfort me? By teasing?!"

Oops.

Maybe not the right move.

"Okay, okay! I'm sorry!" I raised my hands in a gesture of surrender, but Emi wasn't having it.

"On your knees," she commanded, pointing to the cold, tile floor of the infirmary.

Wait, seriously?

This was going a bit far for just some light teasing, wasn't it?

Still, the stern look on her face told me she meant business.

I cautiously knelt down, half-expecting some kind of trick or maybe a trap door to open beneath me.

However, what followed wasn't the tirade about respect or manners I was expecting.

Instead, Emi started on a rant about her age.

"Alright, listen up! I'm in my mid-20s, for crying out loud! That's young, okay? Not every woman my age is settling down. And yes, my parents won't stop nagging me about finding someone and starting a family. But that doesn't mean I have to rush into things. I have goals. Ambitions, goals! You know?"

I just nodded, trying my best to look remorseful.

Inwardly, though, my thoughts wandered.

If this was what the mid-20s were like, I wasn't looking forward to them.

I shuddered, thinking about Midori and Koyo.

They were the same age as Emi, and neither of them had settled down.

Wait, is this what they are going through at the moment?!

Wow, things must be rough for them, huh?

I grimaced at the thought of Ms. Hibiki, always so direct and cheery, asking me about when I was going to give her grandkids.

Knowing her, she'd probably hint at it every chance she got.

That, or she'd drop not-so-subtle comments about "good family friends" who had "lovely, eligible daughters."

Jeez, getting older sounds exhausting.

I silently made a pact with myself to take life one day at a time and not rush into things.

This was the last thing I needed to add to my already heaping pile of worries.

I tried to steer the conversation back to a safer topic.

"So, uh, about that checkup? Is it still happening, or...?"

Still kneeling, I tried to get a word in, but Emi was far from finished.

Her voice, rising and falling in passionate crescendos, detailed her experiences from med school.

"I mean, every other day, there was an invite for this party or that mixer, even dates! But I had to be the responsible one, right?" Her eyes looked far off, remembering a time I couldn't fathom. "I was so determined. 'No parties, no distractions!' I told myself. All I wanted was to study hard, get a good job, and lead a comfortable life."

Her words started to resonate with me more than I'd like to admit.

I was doing the same thing.

Choosing studies over friends, homework over fun...

Was I setting myself up for the same kind of regret-filled rants in the future?

I felt a sinking feeling in my chest.

The parallels between Emi's past and my present were too close for comfort.

Maybe I needed to reassess my priorities.

Sure, dueling and studies were essential, but so was experiencing life and making memories.

Emi finally seemed to wind down.

Taking a deep breath, she sighed in relief, "Whew! That felt good. I've been holding that in for ages, ehehe!"

Don't "ehehe!" me!

Now you're making me one who freaks out!

I tried to mask my growing horror, replacing it with a sympathetic smile.

But inside, the wheels were turning.

I had some serious thinking to do about how I wanted to spend the rest of my school years.

Pulling myself together, I said, "Sounds like you've had uhh... quite the journey, Emi. Thanks for sharing."

But deep down, my thoughts were swirling, contemplating the direction my life was taking.

She giggled at my words.

"No, thanks for listening. Wow... I feel so much younger now!" She sang with a blissful expression.

Huh, she actually does.

I can't tell if it's because of her words coming into effect.

"Now, are you here for your appointment?" She asked with a cheery smile.

Or if it's because she let off some steam...

"Yeah, I'm here for the appointment," I mumbled, still a bit taken aback from our earlier conversation. As I observed her, she appeared more refreshed, the weight she had been carrying seemingly lifted off her shoulders. That spirited youthful glow was back in her eyes.

We moved to the examination area, and she started with the usual check-ups: blood pressure, temperature, and reflexes.

Everything was going smoothly until she paused, her face slightly concerned.

"Sora, have you felt any irregularities with your heart recently?" She inquired, peering into her clipboard.

I blinked, thrown off by the question.

"No? What are you talking about? I haven't had those problems ever since I was a kid."

My confusion was genuine.

Emi's eyes widened a bit, realization dawning on her face.

"Oh, you... you don't remember, do you?"

Remember what?

My mind raced, trying to figure out what she was referring to.

She continued cautiously, "A few weeks ago, you were brought in here. You were in pain, clutching your chest. I had to plug an IV so you can stabilize. We were all worried about you."

That information was like a slap in the face.

I had absolutely no memory of such an event.

My heart raced, ironically, at the thought of it.

She seemed to notice my panic and quickly added, "Sora, your screenings came back normal. There's no indication of any heart problems. You're healthy."

I tried to process what she was saying.

No heart problems, but I had an episode...?

How could I not remember?

Emi gave me a reassuring smile, "Maybe it was just a one-time thing, stress or exhaustion. But it's always good to be cautious. If you feel anything off, please let me know immediately."

I nodded slowly, my thoughts churning.

What had happened to me?

Why couldn't I remember it?

"So... you know, right?" I asked, to which she gave me an earnest nod.

Damn it.

"Your medical records were transferred over by the hospital you used to stay in. It was how I was able to find out and stabilize you." She answered.

I instinctively recoiled when she mentioned the medical records from that hospital.

That place... held memories that were difficult to confront.

The whispers in hallways, the pitying glances, all the signs plastered around with motivational quotes that did nothing but remind me of my condition.

I felt an overwhelming embarrassment wash over me, knowing that Nurse Emi had access to all that information.

As I looked away, trying to hide the vulnerability that threatened to break through, I felt a gentle touch on my shoulder.

Turning my head, I met her gaze, her gray eyes filled with warmth and understanding.

Up close, I could truly appreciate the intricacies of her beauty.

A faint, comforting scent surrounded her, which I hadn't noticed before, and it felt... nurturing.

"Sora," she said gently, her voice slightly wavering as if she was trying to choose her words carefully. "There's no shame in what you've been through. Your journey, battling against your body's limitations, speaks of your determination. It's a testament to your strength. Rather than being embarrassed, you should wear it as a badge of honor."

Her words sounded sincere, and the weight of her comforting touch on my shoulder felt like a balm to my hurting soul.

For a brief moment, I was back at that fateful event where I'd acted on the impulse to shield Alexis.

A sudden, sharp memory of pain pricked me, but the why... the reason for my actions still remained frustratingly out of reach.

Taking a deep breath, I nodded, grateful for Nurse Emi's kindness. "Thank you, Emi," I whispered, finally acknowledging my gratitude.

She offered a reassuring smile, and I felt, even if just a little, that I wasn't alone in my struggles.

I was thankful for Emi's care and understanding.

Emi watched me with a discerning gaze as I hesitated.

I had intended to hold back, not wanting to burden her any further, but the sincere concern in her eyes made me reconsider.

"You look like you're carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders," she remarked gently. "You listened to me earlier when I needed to vent. Maybe it's your turn now?"

Taking a deep breath, I began, "You know I've always been passionate about dueling. It's... it's been a part of who I am. But ever since that Shadow duel, things have changed."

I saw a flicker of worry in Emi's eyes.

After all, She read about it in my medical files.

"I can't shake it off, Emi. Every time I even think about dueling, all those terrifying memories flood back. It's not just the dueling itself but how it's affecting my relationships too. I've been avoiding my friends because they all love the game, and I... I just can't handle it anymore."

Emi listened intently, not interrupting, giving me the space to share my feelings.

"I've even considered cutting back on dueling entirely, except maybe for exams. But that's... It's like cutting off a part of me."

Emi nodded. "Trauma can have that effect, changing something you love into a source of pain. But Sora, running from it might not be the best solution."

"I know, but what can I do? Every time I draw a card, the fear... it's paralyzing."

There was a momentary silence after I spilled out my worries.

I half expected Emi to interject with medical jargon or suggest I see a therapist right away.

But instead, she just listened patiently, her gray eyes reflecting a quiet understanding.

"You've been through a traumatic experience, Sora," Emi finally said, "and from what you've described, it does sound like post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. Though I'm primarily a nurse, I know enough to recognize the signs. However, getting a confirmed diagnosis and proper guidance would require a specialist."

I looked down, fidgeting with my fingers. "I just... I miss the old days. Dueling used to be my escape when I was younger. But now? It's like a nightmare I can't wake up from."

Emi reached out, placing a hand on mine.

"Sora, it's okay to be scared. It's okay to feel lost. But you can't let the past dictate your future. You have to face your fears, no matter how daunting they may seem. If not, you might wake up years from now with regrets, wondering what could've been."

She paused, letting her words sink in.

"You know, it's never too late to get help. If not therapy, then maybe join a support group or talk to someone you trust. It's essential to face your trauma head-on but remember; you don't have to do it alone."

A soft smile spread across her face.

"You listened to me rant about my worries, which were nowhere near as serious as yours. The least I can do is offer some advice, even if I'm not an expert."

I nodded, her words resonating with me. "Thanks, Emi. I'll... I'll think about it."

She patted my hand gently.

"That's all I ask. Just promise me you won't bottle up these feelings. Reach out, seek help, and take it one step at a time."

As I left the infirmary, I felt lighter than I had in a long time. Emi's words echoed in my ears, a gentle reminder that healing, like dueling, is a journey best undertaken one step at a time.

The sun dipped low in the sky, casting the campus in a warm orange hue as I made my way back to the dorms.

Jaden. That guy. He always wore his heart on his sleeve.

In every duel, every joke, every move – you knew exactly where you stood with him. It was one of the things I admired most about him.

He reminded me a lot of Koyo and his antics, so it explains why I warmed up to him so quickly.

But as I replayed our interactions after that fateful Shadow duel, a different side of Jaden emerged in my memories.

The image of him looking at my chest with that sorrowful expression was hard to shake.

At the time, I hadn't given it much thought, dismissing it as one of his typical dramatic reactions.

But now?

It made sense.

He had seen the episode. He had seen the pain, the struggle, the raw vulnerability that I'd tried to hide from everyone, including myself.

And like the true friend he was, he gave me space, respecting my wishes to cut back on dueling.

I suddenly felt a twinge of guilt for not noticing it sooner.

Jaden probably had a million things he wanted to say, questions he wanted to ask, but he held back, fearing it might trigger another episode.

The realization that he had been suppressing his own love for dueling out of concern for me was humbling.

I let out a deep breath.

The dueling grounds, our usual hangout, seemed so distant now.

Those duels where I would spectate, the banter, the friendly challenges – they all felt like memories from another lifetime.

The wind blew a bit harder, ruffling my hair and snapping me out of my thoughts.

As the first stars began to appear in the orange sky, I made a promise to myself.

I would speak to Jaden and open up about everything.

The trauma, the fear, the confusion – he deserved to know.

And maybe, with time and understanding, we could find our way back, reigniting the passion that once defined our friendship.

The path to the dorms was more familiar to me than any other path on the island, but today, it felt different.

I wasn't sure if it was the revelations from my chat with Emi or the newfound realization about Jaden.

Before I could drown further in my thoughts, my PDA buzzed with a reminder.

Zane.

The chat I'd promised.

He was a senior, way out of my league in terms of dueling skills, but there was something he saw in me.

Maybe it was potential, or maybe he just liked mentoring younger students.

Quickly, I caught up on the pending assignments, occasionally glancing at my duel disk by my bedside.

The once emblematic piece of gear now felt alien, yet with a promise of familiarity.

Emi's words rang in my ears, urging me to reclaim the joy it once brought.

After jotting down the last answer and packing my things, I slung the duel disk over my shoulder, feeling its weight.

It was time to meet Zane.

And maybe, just maybe, I'd challenge him to a friendly duel if the conversation steered that way.

But before I headed out the door, I pulled my deck out of my disk and examined it one last time.

I had a weird feeling that I should switch some cards out, especially since I was going against the best duelist in the Academy.

With a quick cursory glance, I placed some last-ditch cards into my deck and swapped out cards that would only fail against Zane's onslaught.

Let's hope Zombyra could be a slight counter to his Cyber Dragons...

---

As I approached the lighthouse, the gentle hum of the waves and the distant call of seagulls filled the air.

The horizon was bathed in a warm, golden hue from the setting sun.

At the end of the pier stood Zane, his usually sharp blue hair now appearing softer under the sunlight's touch.

It was strange seeing him so still, so serene, especially when I had heard about his fierce, determined demeanor during duels.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" Zane started, not even looking my way; his voice tinged with unexpected gentleness. "The sun, the sea... it's all so tranquil. On evenings like this, when everything just seems to fade away, the world feels a little lighter."

His words painted the scenery in a more profound light. The lapping waves, the distant horizon, and the setting sun – all seemed to echo his sentiments.

"I started coming here after... after what happened at the abandoned dorms, after losing my best friend." Zane continued.

The weight of his words, filled with memories and sorrow, hung in the air.

"It was a way to cope, to remember, and to hope. This place, the vastness of the ocean, made my problems feel smaller, more manageable."

I took a moment to let that sink in.

Here was Zane, a top-ranking duelist, pouring out his vulnerabilities, finding solace in nature's grandeur.

But then, my mind started to drift, connecting dots that maybe weren't meant to be connected.

The soft lighting, the intimate setting, his heartfelt monologue...

Was this... a confession?

The thought made me chuckle internally.

Seriously? Here? Now?

The situation's irony is not lost on me.

The dude's pouring his heart out about lost friends and coping mechanisms, and here I am, thinking it's some cheesy romance scene straight out of a movie.

I brushed the silly thought aside, focusing back on Zane and the weight of his words.

As the atmosphere thickened with tension, Zane's silence permeated the air, becoming almost suffocating.

The backdrop of the fading sun and the gentle lapping of the waves stood in stark contrast to the emotional weight that began to settle between us.

Feeling the need to alleviate the impending awkwardness, I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the words he needed to convey.

"Zane," I started, my voice gentle yet firm, "I need you to know... I don't see you in that way."

The sentence hung between us, its gravity echoing louder than the bustling surroundings of the port.

My words weren't spoken out of malice or jest but rather with deep solemnity.

"But give me some time. I'll try my best and think about your feelings for me."

Zane still hadn't turned, his gaze fixed on the distant horizon.

The moment felt like an eternity, the anticipation of his reaction looming large in my mind.

But sometimes, the unspoken words carry more meaning than those vocalized, and I just hoped my friend(?) would understand my sincerity.

All of a sudden, the Kaiser whipped his head towards me.

Zane's bewildered face was, for lack of a better term, absolutely priceless.

I never thought I'd see the day when I'd catch the always-composed Zane Truesdale completely off guard.

It was a once-in-a-lifetime expression that sent my internal self into a fit of giggles.

"Wait, what?" Zane exclaimed, eyebrows furrowing. "What are you talking about?"

His deep blue eyes darted around as if looking to escape from this unexpected twist in their conversation.

"I mean, come on!" I started with a playful grin, "The sunset, the sea, the whole 'let me spill my deepest feelings' vibe? It sounded like the beginning of a romance novel or something. Plus, you've got the whole 'tall, dark, and brooding' thing going on."

Zane shook his head, still processing the situation.

"I was just... trying to share something personal, to get our conversation started," he said defensively, but there was a hint of amusement in his eyes. "It's not my fault you have an overactive imagination."

I chuckled, rolling my eyes dramatically. "Well, next time, you might want to consider your audience. What if someone else had walked up? They'd think you were about to propose or something!"

He gave me a mock glare.

"And what makes you so special that I'd 'propose' to you?"

The banter was light, easy, a stark contrast to our usual dueling intensity. It was these moments, outside of the world of monsters and spells, that made our bond stronger.

"I mean, I must've made an impression on you," I quipped, "after all, you did pour your heart out to me."

Zane smirked, the tension from earlier now completely dissipated.

"Hmph. No wonder Alexis thought you were insufferable," he remarked, but his smile spoke volumes. "But it's good to see that you're doing better."

Our laughs echoed over the pier, the weight of the world momentarily forgotten.

The sunset, the ocean, and two friends sharing a genuine moment of connection.

Maybe it wasn't a scene straight out of a romance novel, but it was perfect nonetheless.

I remember feeling a tad caught off-guard.

The last person I expected to be approached by concerning my well-being was Zane.

Though looking back, Alexis had probably reached out to him, thinking he could help with my whole duel-related trauma.

But it did make me question... did everyone in the academy now know about my issues?

As my thoughts spiraled, Zane's voice brought me back.

"Looks like you're in a good place now, Sora," he remarked, a genuine smile on his face. "I think I don't have to do anything else now."

"Yeah, had some... enlightening chats today," I replied, still slightly taken aback but grateful for the concern.

His eyes then darted to the duel disk on my arm, an eyebrow raised in interest.

"Looking to duel?" he asked, though it felt more like a statement.

I hesitated for a split second, thinking about the shadow duel, the trauma, and everything that led up to this moment.

But then I remembered Emi's words about taking things one step at a time.

"Yeah," I responded, a newfound determination in my voice. "Think of it as... therapy."

Zane chuckled.

"Dueling as therapy? That's a new one." But before I could respond, with a swift and fluid motion that seemed to come from nowhere, Zane activated his duel disk.

Its bright light illuminated the fading daylight, signaling the beginning of our duel.

I couldn't help but smirk.

Maybe this was exactly what I needed – a challenge, a way to confront my fears head-on.

And who better to help me with that than Zane?

"Alright," I said, readying myself. "You've been looking forward to this, haven't you?"

He chuckled at my accusation.

"Maybe, I was. I'll let you have the first turn. Show me what you got, freshman."

With a nod, I pulled five cards out from my deck as my starting hand.

"Duel!" Zane shouted as he did the same.

(Kazuyuki 4000/Zane 4000)

Nice...!

This is a good hand!

Drawing that first card, the action itself was simple, something I'd done countless times before.

But this time, the weight behind it was different.

The smooth slide of the card against my fingers felt oddly reassuring.

There wasn't a sudden jolt of pain or a flash of that traumatic memory.

It was just... a draw.

With a relieved exhale, I thought, "Alright, so far so good."

I glanced at the card that I drew in my hand: Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke.

Perfect.

"I summon Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke (1800/800) in attack position!" I announced confidently, placing the card onto my duel disk.

The hologram of Sasuke sprung to life, his stance firm and ready.

Looking at him, a wave of nostalgia washed over me.

This card had seen me through numerous battles and had never let me down.

It was familiar, like an old friend, and having him on the field felt right.

Feeling that now was the time to add some security, I said, "I'll set one card face-down," sliding a card into my trap and spell card zone. "And with that, I end my turn."

I couldn't help but sneak a peek at Zane, trying to gauge his reaction.

But his expression was unreadable, the same cool and collected demeanor he always had.

Regardless of his response, though, I felt good about my move.

One turn down, and I was still standing strong.

As Zane confidently reached for his deck, a glint of anticipation was evident in his eyes.

Without hesitation, he announced, "I special summon Cyber Dragon(2100/1600) in attack mode!"

In a brilliant flash of light, the intimidating silhouette of Cyber Dragon materialized on the field, its many interlocking metal plates snapping together as it formed.

Its formidable presence and the mechanical roar echoing through the arena made it clear that Zane meant business.

However, this was a move I had anticipated.

My hand was already moving toward the face-down card I'd just set.

"I activate my trap, Bottomless Trap Hole!"

As the trap sprung to life, the ground beneath Cyber Dragon opened up, swallowing the mechanized beast whole.

Zane, taken slightly aback, gave a short chuckle.

"Impressive. Didn't expect you to counter my ace that quickly." He seemed both amused and intrigued.

Smirking, I replied, "You should know by now, Zane, I always come prepared."

But Zane wasn't done.

He had more up his sleeve.

"I summon Reflect Bounder (1700/1000) in attack position," he declared.

The creature, shaped like a metallic sphere covered in spikes, hovered menacingly in front of him. Its mirrored surface gave off an eerie glow, reflecting the surroundings with a distorted twist.

Zane then set a card face-down, mirroring my earlier move. "Your move," he said, signaling the end of his turn.

The atmosphere around us was thick with tension.

The pace of the duel was quick, and with each move, it felt like we were dancing around each other, testing boundaries and seeking an opening.

Drawing my card, I analyzed the situation. Reflect Bounder was a pesky card; its unique effect allowed it to bounce back damage, so attacking it head-on would be a losing proposition for me.

But then, glancing at the card I just drew, a smile spread across my face.

"I activate Enemy Controller!" I declared, holding up the spell card.

The field was enveloped in a pulsating electric glow as my controller started manipulating Reflect Bounder.

"I choose the first effect: switch your Reflect Bounder to Defense position." With a robotic movement, Reflect Bounder shifted, exposing its weaker defensive side.

Seeing his monster's position change, Zane raised an eyebrow, curious about my next move.

With a confident tone, I ordered, "Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke, attack Reflect Bounder with Shadow Sword Strike!"

My ninja's blade glinted menacingly in the dim light as he lunged forward, slicing through the metallic sphere with ease.

The mirror machine exploded in a burst of sparks and was removed from the field.

Alright!

That can create an opening if I keep this up!

Zane's gaze remained steady, but I could tell he was taking note of my strategic play.

Seizing the momentum, I declared, "I set a monster face-down," placing a card on my duel disk.

The card materialized on the field, its image obscured.

Feeling more in control of the game, I concluded, "Your move, Zane."

He looked across the field, assessing the situation and formulating his strategy.

The duel's intensity was palpable; each move, each card played was another step in a high-stakes chess match.

Zane, with a smirk on his lips, quickly took action.

"From my hand, I activate Pot of Greed! This card allows me to draw 2 additional cards from my hand."

I couldn't help but roll my eyes at how he needed to explain what the card did.

He noticed my eyeroll but all it did was fuel his next play as he drew 2 cards.

"Next, I activate the spell card, Different Dimension Reincarnation!"

With a dazzling burst of light, a dimensional portal opened, revealing a familiar metallic form.

"By discarding a card," Zane continued, sending a card to his graveyard, "I can bring back a banished monster. Return, Cyber Dragon!"

The sleek silver dragon once again took its place on the field, thrumming with energy.

"I'm not done yet," Zane declared. "I summon Proto Cyber Dragon (1100/600)!" The smaller, black-tinted counterpart of Cyber Dragon appeared, its mechanical growl filling the arena.

Without skipping a beat, Zane played his next card. "I activate Polymerization!" Both his monsters were engulfed in a swirling vortex of energy. "I'll fuse my Cyber Dragon with Proto Cyber Dragon!" he exclaimed.

From the midst of the whirlwind, a formidable, double-headed beast emerged the powerful Cyber Twin Dragon (2800/2100).

Oh, crapbaskets.

With a swift motion, Zane commanded, "Cyber Twin Dragon, attack Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke!"

The twin-headed dragon unleashed a powerful energy beam, obliterating my ninja from the field.

(Kazuyuki 3000/Zane 4000)

But Zane wasn't done. "Now, attack the facedown monster!" he ordered.

The dragon once again fired, targeting the concealed card I had placed on my field.

As it flipped up, Wall of Illusion (1000/1850) was revealed.

A ghostly wall of miasmic energy emerged, its gaze focused intently on the Cyber Twin Dragon as if focusing its last remaining energy onto him.

And so, the wall erupted in light thanks to the energy beam, and its wake left a ball of dark energy which targeted the Fusion Monster.

Thanks to Wall of Illusion's effect, Cyber Twin Dragon was returned to Zane's Fusion Deck, its brief moment of devastation on the field cut short.

With a sly grin, Zane said, "Well played, Sora. I wasn't expecting that to see that card again." But even with the unexpected turn, he exuded an air of confidence. "That ends my turn."

Taking a moment to reassess the board, I realized that while Zane had lost his fusion monster, he was now left wide open for the next round of attacks.

Wait, see that card again?

The memory of my dueling exam, where I had employed a unique strategy, suddenly flashed back in my mind.

At that time, amidst the pressure and intensity of the exam, I hadn't noticed who was in the audience.

"You watched my exam?" I responded, slightly taken aback.

I hadn't expected one of the top duelists of the academy, much less someone of Zane's caliber, to take notice of a freshman's duel.

Zane's eyes shifted, giving away a hint of amusement.

"Yes," he replied, "Your strategy was... unconventional. Using Wall of Illusion and then milling your examiner out. Not a strategy you see every day."

I felt a mix of pride and slight embarrassment. "Well, I had to find a way to stand out," I said, chuckling lightly.

Zane crossed his arms, leaning back a bit.

"What caught my attention was not just the strategy but the audacity. Milling 15 cards in a single turn, then forcing a win through Gravekeeper's Servant? It's not just about the cards, Sora. It's about the mindset. The audacity to attempt such a move, especially during an examination, shows both your confidence and your creativity."

His words were a welcome surprise.

To hear such a compliment from Zane, someone I had admired for his dueling prowess, was certainly motivating.

"Um... uh... thanks, man," I replied, genuinely touched.

"But don't let it go to your head," Zane added with a teasing tone, "While I'm impressed with your past performance, we're in the middle of a duel right now. And I'm eager to see how you fare against me."

The atmosphere was once again charged with competition.

But his words had given me renewed confidence.

I felt a rush of excitement, ready to face the next round.

"I won't disappoint," I said, my grip tightening around my duel disk.

If I can somehow deal 4000 life points in this one turn, then I can end the duel!

I drew the card from my disk and examined it.

Hmm...

I can wait and see things out, but given how he is defenseless, I can go in for the kill.

"Here goes! I activate Monster Reborn to bring back your Cyber Dragon!"

I announced, revealing the iconic card with its ankh symbol.

The graveyard's energy swirled around, culminating in a dramatic return of Zane's Cyber Dragon, which now roared to life on my side of the field.

Its metallic sheen gleamed under the artificial lighting of the duel arena, but I had other plans for it.

A second idea formed, one that would catch Zane off guard. "Next," I declared, "I'm going to use Metamorphosis on your Cyber Dragon. And summon a Fusion Monster!"

Sliding the spell card onto my duel disk, the dragon roared in protest before getting engulfed by mystic energy.

"Come out, Fiend Skull Dragon (2000/1200)!

The transformation took mere seconds, but when the light dissipated, standing in its place was the menacing Fiend Skull Dragon, its hollow eyes and fierce stance, wrapped with purple wings, promising a powerful onslaught.

"Now, attack the Kaiser directly with Shadow Inferno Blaze!"

The Fusion Monster's body began to glow an intense purple and blue aura, charging up its attack.

The dragon then reared back and opened its maw, revealing a maelstrom of purplish fire.

Its aura grew more and more vibrant, and it unleashed a massive stream of inferno onto him, dimming the surroundings.

As the dust settled from Fiend Skull Dragon's assault, Zane's life points took a significant hit.

(Kazuyuki 3000/Zane 2000)

Watching the sequence of events play out, Zane's eyebrows slightly lift in intrigue.

The loss of his Cyber Dragon didn't seem to faze him much, but he was still amused at what I was concocting.

Zane rubbed his chin thoughtfully, "Using my own Cyber Dragon against me and then morphing it into Fiend Skull Dragon? Interesting play, Sora. I should've expected that you would use something like this against me."

With a triumphant smirk, I responded, "Just a trick I picked up along the way. You're not the only one with surprises up his sleeve."

For a brief moment, I wished I had Megamorph to finish the duel right then and there.

Still, Zane looked unperturbed.

"I'll admit, that was a good move. But remember Sora, every action has a reaction. You've got the momentum now, but how long can you maintain it?"

My eyes narrowed slightly, sensing the challenge in Zane's words.

He was reminding me that in the world of dueling, especially at this level, one could never rest on their laurels.

"Long enough, Zane. Let's see how you handle what comes next." I stated as I set two cards.

I glanced at the cards I set, hoping it would be the key to keeping the momentum in my favor during the next turn.

The atmosphere grew tense as Zane drew his card. I could tell from his focused expression that he had drawn into a strategy. "Let's see if you can keep up the momentum, Sora," he stated with a smirk.

Zane then flipped his facedown card, revealing the eerie glow of Call of the Haunted.

Chains materialized out of thin air, reaching into the dark depths of the graveyard, and they brought back his Proto Cyber Dragon.

Zane's plays were getting more intense, and I knew something big was coming.

"Next, I play Overload Fusion. Remember the card I discarded with Different Dimension Reincarnation?"

I watched, a mix of awe and apprehension, as a torrent of green energy consumed his Proto Cyber Dragon and the two Cyber Dragons from his graveyard.

"Behold, my Cyber End Dragon!"

The arena darkened, and out of the energy emerged the fearsome, towering form of Cyber End Dragon, its three heads roaring in for a challenge.

That monster had a staggering 4000 attack points.

My heart raced. Fiend Skull Dragon stood no chance in a direct confrontation.

But I reminded myself to keep faith in my cards and strategy.

Still, Zane wasn't done.

"Next, I play Card of Sanctity! Which lets us draw until we have six cards in our hands!"

Wait, really?

As he played the card onto his duel disk, a bright light enveloped the field for a moment.

When it subsided, I looked down at my hand, and I saw I had indeed drawn six cards.

Before the Kaiser could lay onto his plan a little more, I raised my hand.

He was perplexed as to what I was doing but let me have the floor.

"Yes?"

I looked down at my hand and looked back at him.

"Why does a card like Card of Sanctity exist? This is a little too broken, don't you think?"

Zane raised a brow, an amused glint in his eye.

"It's called strategy, Sora. Every card has its place in the world of dueling. Plus, isn't it fair that both of us get to draw up to six cards? Makes the game more interesting."

I rolled my eyes.

"It just seems... overpowered. Like, who thought, 'Hey, let's let duelists fill their hands up to six cards with a single card!'?"

Zane chuckled lightly, "The same people who made a card that allows you to immediately summon a monster from my graveyard to your side of the field without any costs, I guess."

I grinned sheepishly, realizing I had done just that earlier in our duel with Monster Reborn.

"Well... I guess you got a point there. But still..."

He raised an eyebrow, a teasing tone in his voice.

"Still?"

Shrugging, I responded, "I mean, if I had known that card existed, I would've included it in my deck ages ago! Just imagine the combos! Imagine how quickly I could have taken down Alexis if I had Brain Control, Change of Heart, Smashing Ground, Metamorphosis, Heavy Storm, and...!"

Zane laughed outright at that.

"Good, good... Think of all the possibilities with six cards. Let the ideas flow through you!"

I shook my head playfully as I struggled not to burst into laughter.

"All right, all right, Mr. Kaiser. Get back to trying to obliterate me."

With another chuckle, Zane refocused.

"Very well, let's continue, shall we?"

And with that, the duel resumed with even more intensity, but there was a newfound camaraderie between us.

"Next, I will play Different Dimension Burial to bring back the cards banished by Overload Fusion back to my graveyard."

He then retrieved the three removed cards from his disk and slotted them into his graveyard.

Without much hesitation, Zane commanded, "Now, Cyber End Dragon, attack Fiend Skull Dragon with Cybernetic Annihilation!"

The ground trembled as the massive dragon lunged forward, its three heads charging bluish energy, preparing to strike.

If Fiend Skull Dragon fell, my defense would be severely weakened.

Now!

"Not so fast! I activate Sakuretsu Armor!"

The metallic plate of Sakuretsu Armor glinted in the virtual light as it sprung from my trap zone. I smirked, certain I had stopped Zane's mighty dragon in its tracks. The trap was primed, ready to shred the approaching Cyber End Dragon to bits.

However, Zane's seasoned experience shone through as he quickly declared, "I chain with De-Fusion!"

His quick-play spell card flipped up, and the dominant form of Cyber End Dragon began to dissolve, separating into its original components.

In the blink of an eye, where the tri-headed behemoth once stood were now three sleek machines: Proto Cyber Dragon and two Cyber Dragons.

I watched in mild disbelief, my trap card now utterly useless against these split monsters.

With a confident grin, Zane ordered, "Cyber Dragon, obliterate Fiend Skull Dragon!"

One of the Cyber Dragons lunged, releasing a burst of energy directly at my dragon.

The impact was instantaneous, and Fiend Skull Dragon was reduced to pixels, clearing the path for Zane's next move.

(Kazuyuki 2900/Zane 2000)

I could feel the pressure mounting. Without hesitation, Zane declared, "Now, my dragons, direct attack!"

Thinking fast, I shouted, "Hold on! I activate Scapegoat!"

Four fluffy tokens materialized on my field, acting as a barrier between me and Zane's impending onslaught.

Zane's eyes narrowed, but he seemed intrigued. "Interesting, Sora. Using tokens to absorb the attack, huh?"

I grinned back at him, trying to keep my nerves in check.

"It's all about strategy, right, Kaiser?"

Zane's smirk didn't waver as he played two cards in quick succession.

"I activate Future Fusion and send the necessary materials into my graveyard." He announced as he pulled out his deck and slipped in his monster cards.

"Next, I'll play Pot of Avarice, retrieving five monster cards and then drawing two cards." he declared confidently, making his intentions clear.

He was gearing up for a massive play in the coming turns.

And to top it off, he set two cards facedown, giving him even more options.

Regardless, it was my turn, and I drew.

My eyes caught onto the card that I needed to turn the tables in my favor.

With a glimmer of an idea and ignoring the stinging sensation at the back of my neck, I began to set my plan into motion.

"I activate Magical Stone Excavation! With that, I can take two cards from my hand to the graveyard..." I stated, extending my arm to the virtual graveyard in front of me.

With precision, I retrieved the previously used Metamorphosis.

"And bring back a Metamorphosis!"

Now to phase two of my strategy.

"I activate Change of Heart!" I announced, targeting Zane's Cyber Dragon.

The dragon hesitated for a moment, then its glowing eyes changed, signaling its loyalty was momentarily mine.

The Kaiser raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by the turn of events.

"Bold move," he remarked as I continued with my plan.

Taking a deep breath, I declared, "And now, I'll switch one of my Scapegoat tokens to attack mode."

The small, fluffy creature, seemingly out of place amongst these formidable monsters, eagerly jumped to the front.

Zane's eyes darted between the token, his Cyber Dragon under my control, and the Metamorphosis card in my hand.

"What are you plotting, Sora?" he mused.

I grinned, letting the tension build.

With these moves, I was paving the way for a powerful play.

The real question was: would Zane see it coming?

And even if he did, could he stop it?

The unexpected twist was evident in Zane's eyes as I initiated my next move.

"I'll be using Metamorphosis on my token!" The innocent fluffy creature began to contort and twist, morphing into a horrific sight.

Both of us instinctively recoiled, our eyes fixed on the ghastly, grotesque being that emerged.

"I summon Thousand-Eyes Restrict..." I announced, trying to keep the unease out of my voice. "And use its effect on your Cyber Dragon."

Its single enormous eye, located in the center of its formless body, shifted to Zane's remaining Cyber Dragon.

Without warning, thick tentacles shot out from the Restrict, wrapping around the dragon.

Moments later, the dragon was sucked into the Restrict, merging as one.

Zane's lips thinned.

"I should have seen that coming," he admitted grudgingly.

"But wait, there's more," I said with a smirk.

Playing my next card, I declared, "I activate Creature Swap!"

Zane's eyes widened as he caught on.

The token, now in attack position, switched places with his Proto Cyber Dragon.

A now-vulnerable token stood on his side while I gained a powerful monster.

With this series of plays, the tide of the duel had shifted.

The field, once dominated by Zane's dragons, now lay in a precarious balance.

I took a deep breath, focusing on my intentions.

My Thousand-Eyes Restrict, having absorbed Zane's Cyber Dragon, looked fearsome.

I turned my attention to one of Zane's monsters.

"I'll have Cyber Dragon attack your token!" I declared, pointing towards the unsuspecting creature on Zane's field. "Go!"

But as my Cyber Dragon roared and lunged towards Zane's remaining token, a blue barrier materialized around Zane, shimmering with energy.

"I activate a trap! Draining Shield!" Zane announced, his voice filled with anticipation. "Not only does it negate your attack, but I also gain life points equal to the attack points of your attacking monster."

I watched in frustration as Zane's life points started to rise, the numbers climbing up to add the 2100 points that would've been damaged.

(Kazuyuki 2900/Zane 4100)

That's a minor setback...

"Alright, Thousand-Eyes Restrict! Attack the token!" I ordered.

The abomination lunged towards the token, obeying my command.

However, as my monster readied its tendrils to strike, Zane coolly flipped one of his set cards.

"I activate another trap card," Zane interrupted, a hint of smug satisfaction in his voice, "Ring of Destruction!"

A blazing ring of fire suddenly appeared around my Thousand-Eyes Restrict, encircling it menacingly.

I felt a pit in my stomach, realizing what was about to happen.

Damn it.

Zane continued, "With this, we both take damage equal to the attack points of your monster, which happens to be 2100, thanks to my Cyber Dragon. Oh, and Thousand-Eyes Restrict? It gets destroyed too."

The fiery ring detonated, sending a massive shockwave through the arena.

Both our life points counters decreased sharply.

As the numbers settled, I sighed, running a hand through my hair.

Drawing from the surge of determination that coursed through me after the setback, I once again commanded, "Proto Cyber Dragon, attack his token!"

This time, there were no surprises, no sudden traps.

My Proto Cyber Dragon's energy beam made contact, destroying Zane's token.

(Kazuyuki 800/Zane 900)

The grim satisfaction in Zane's eyes was evident, but I couldn't let this shake me.

In fact, I could feel a smirk forming on my face as I realized the irony of the situation.

"You know," I began, a hint of amusement in my voice, "It's usually me putting others through this trap marathon. I see how annoying it must feel now." I said, recalling all the times I'd watched my opponents falter against my strategy.

Zane merely raised an eyebrow in response, his expression unreadable.

Still, I thought I caught a hint of a smile there.

Now...

How do I get out of this mess?

Once again, the momentum had shifted over to Zane, who no doubt has something to counter my board.

I looked back at my hand and hoped to see if there was anything I could do to protect myself.

There it was, the card that I had almost forgotten about — a trap that I had placed in my deck just before this duel, thinking it might come in handy.

It wasn't a card I was familiar with in terms of strategy, but at this point, I was willing to try anything.

Swiftly, I set the one card face-down, trying to mask any hint of desperation from my demeanor.

"All right, I'll summon Zombyra, The Dark (2100/500) in attack mode and end my turn," I muttered, mostly to myself. "Your move, Zane."

As the cloaked Dark Warrior appeared on the field, Zane's Cyber Dragon returned to his side of the field.

But instead of making his next play, Zane looked directly at me, his typically stern eyes softened with a hint of curiosity.

"Before I proceed," he began, hesitating just slightly, "may I ask you something?"

I nodded slowly, intrigued. "Sure, ask away."

He took a moment, collecting his thoughts. "During your dueling exam, you had an extraordinary technique, different from the norm. And today, again, your strategy stands out. Why do you opt for such unorthodox moves?"

For a moment, I was taken aback. I never really thought about it, or at least, no one had ever asked me in such a direct manner.

Reflecting for a few seconds, I answered, "I guess... I like to keep my opponents guessing. The unpredictable nature of my style keeps them off balance, and it's more fun for me."

Zane's eyebrows furrowed further, a clear sign my initial answer didn't appease him. "That's not quite what I meant," he clarified. "Your style... it reminds me of someone I used to watch in the pro leagues when I was younger. It's similar, yet there's a distinct flair to it. Do you know who I'm referring to?"

I instantly recognized the implication behind his words. The memories flooded back, and I could almost hear the clink of the cards and the cheers of the crowd as I watched those duels from the sidelines. I nodded slowly, a touch of nostalgia in my eyes. "Koyo," I murmured.

Zane's eyes lit up in recognition. "That's the one. Koyo Hibiki. He was a legend in his own right. I always wanted to duel him or watch his matches upfront. But his matches were always... enlightening. But what does he have to do with you?"

Taking a deep breath, I began, "Koyo was... is my mentor." The surprise in Zane's eyes was evident, but I pressed on. "I was just a kid who didn't know anything about dueling. But once I played, I became passionate about dueling. Passionate but lacking direction. One day, our paths crossed in the most unexpected of ways. Out of the kindness of his heart, he decided to teach me about Duel Monsters to someone like me. He saw something in me, I guess. He took the time to share his wisdom and skills, and that's how I learned everything I know."

I carefully left out the hospital part, unsure if I wanted to delve into that aspect of my past just yet.

Zane processed this information, looking momentarily contemplative. "That explains the similarity in style. But your unique flair... is that something Koyo taught you?"

I chuckled, shaking my head. "Not exactly. While Koyo provided the foundation, he always encouraged me to find my own path, adapt his teachings, and make them my own. The unexpected moves, the sudden shifts in strategy – they are my personal touch. Koyo believed that every duelist should have their own signature, something that makes them stand out. And I guess this is mine."

Zane looked thoughtful. "It's been years since I last heard Koyo's name," he mused. "But seeing his legacy through you... it's quite something."

I smiled, grateful for the acknowledgment.

Pausing for a moment, I felt a swell of emotion as memories flooded back. "You know, I owe Koyo more than just my dueling skills. He saved my life in more ways than one."

Zane raised an eyebrow, signaling for me to go on.

"When I was younger, there was a point in my life when everything seemed bleak," I started, my voice heavy with the weight of the past. "I felt lost, isolated. Every day felt like a struggle like I was being pulled deeper into a dark abyss. I didn't have any hope, nor did I see a way out. But then dueling entered my life, and it became more than just a game."

I glanced up at the sky, the gentle rustling of the leaves offering a soothing backdrop to my words.

"It gave me purpose, a sense of belonging. Every card I drew, every strategy I devised, it was like piecing together fragments of my shattered self. And while dueling started as an escape, it eventually transformed into a beacon of hope. But without Koyo, I don't think I would've made it this far."

I met Zane's eyes, "Koyo didn't just teach me about cards and tactics. He showed me that even in our darkest moments, there's always a glimmer of hope, a strategy to pull us through. Every duel and every challenge became a metaphor for the battles I faced in my life. And with Koyo's guidance, I learned not just to play but to live."

Zane seemed deep in thought, absorbing the weight of my words.

He finally responded, "Sounds like Koyo had a profound impact on your life."

I nodded, grateful for the understanding in his eyes. "He did. And that's why I'll always be thankful to him. Not just as a mentor, but as a savior who showed me, there's always light at the end of the tunnel."

The duel had taken a personal turn, but it felt right, connecting over shared memories and reverence for a shared idol.

Gazing into the distance, the duel with Zane momentarily faded as I was transported back to those countless sessions with Koyo.

I could almost hear his calm but cheery voice, guiding me through intricate strategies, teaching me to anticipate my opponent's moves, and, most importantly, to always trust in my cards and myself.

"There's a lesson in every draw, Sora. Sometimes, it's not about the card you get but about how you use it," Koyo's words echoed in my mind.

I remembered the countless duels we'd shared, the laughter, the frustrations, and the breakthroughs.

Each match was not just about winning or losing but about understanding oneself better.

A memory flashed, and Koyo's wise eyes locked onto mine.

"Remember, the heart of the cards isn't just a concept. It's the bond between you and your deck, the trust you place in each draw. Let your emotions your beliefs resonate with each card. That's when the real magic happens."

I felt a tugging sensation like I was on the verge of unlocking a memory buried deep within me.

That moment after the Shadow duel where I protected Alexis, a moment of darkness, panic, and then... something important.

Something Koyo had shared, a secret, maybe?

No, it wasn't a secret.

It was something that I kept close to my heart.

Desperately trying to grasp the fleeting memory, my fingers instinctively brushed over the deck, hoping the familiar texture would trigger a revelation.

But it was just out of reach, like trying to remember a dream after waking up.

Shaking my head to dispel the frustration, I locked eyes with Zane, determination burning anew.

Whatever that forgotten memory was, I felt certain that this duel, the challenge, and excitement of it, would be the key to finally unearthing it.

I had to keep pushing, keep trusting in my cards and in the lessons that Koyo bestowed upon me.

Because deep down, I knew that every draw, every decision, was bringing me one step closer to remembering.

Zane drew his next card with an unreadable expression as he pursed his lips.

I can only wonder what he drew.

"I activate my trap card!" I shouted. "Last Turn!"

As I activated "Last Turn," a heavy silence descended on us. The duel disk's light illuminated the card's foreboding artwork, and for a moment, it felt like the entire world was watching.

Zane's eyebrows knitted in surprise.

"Last Turn?" He glanced at me, a hint of respect in his eyes.

"Quite the controversial card. Banned in official tournaments for its... unpredictable nature."

His response wasn't unexpected.

Last Turn was known for its high-stakes gameplay, essentially turning the duel into a sudden death situation.

Only one monster from each player would remain, and the battle between them would decide the victor, but there was one caveat too.

"I'm honestly surprised you'd use it," Zane continued, a smirk curling on his lips. "Especially considering you must know that if you play this card against a player like me, the outcome is almost certain."

I couldn't help but smile back, even as my heart raced.

"Zane, you said before that a duel isn't just about the cards you hold but about the spirit with which you play them." I looked at the card, then back at him. "And right now, I'm just applying your wisdom."

Zane chuckled softly, nodding in acknowledgment.

"Very well then, let's see how this last turn unfolds."

The strongest monster on my field was Zombrya, so I had no choice but to pick him.

"I'll choose Zombrya, The Dark, to represent the Last Turn."

Zombrya stood tall on my field, his dark energy pulsating and ready to face whatever monster Zane chose.

Despite the earlier tricks and strategies, it had come down to this: a single, powerful clash.

Zane surveyed his hand and graveyard carefully, then smirked.

"Well, it seems this duel has been full of unexpected surprises, hasn't it? For the third time this duel, I'll choose... Cyber Dragon."

We both knew what the outcome of this duel would be now.

With a flourish, the mechanical dragon appeared once more on the field, its thrusters roaring to life.

The atmosphere grew tense as the two powerful monsters stared each other down.

The mechanical whir of Cyber Dragon and the dark, eerie aura emanating from Zombrya, The Dark seemed to fill every inch of the arena.

With a deep breath, I gave the command, "Zombrya, attack!"

Simultaneously, Zane shouted, "Cyber Dragon, strike!"

Zombrya rushed forward, jumping and going forward with a Superman punch, while the Cyber Dragon unleashed a beam of energy straight at him.

The entire field lit up in a massive explosion, causing shockwaves that rippled throughout the arena.

When the dust settled, both monsters were gone, destroyed by each other's attacks.

The duel disk screens showed our life points still intact, but our fields empty.

"So, this is how a DRAW feels?"

I let out a deep breath, feeling both relief and disappointment.

"Seems so."

Zane chuckled, extending his hand.

"That was one of the most unpredictable duels I've ever been part of. Well played, Sora. You had me on the ropes there."

I took his hand, shaking it firmly.

"You too, Zane. And I thought I was going to lose too. It was an honor."

The soft hues of pink and purple painted the sky, signaling the end of another day at Duel Academy. I blinked, realizing how lost in the duel I had been, and asked, "How long were we at it?"

Zane glanced at his wristwatch and grunted, "Only about 15 minutes or so. Although, with the intensity of our duel, it did feel like a lifetime."

As we continued our conversation, my stomach let out a loud, echoing growl, cutting through the evening stillness.

I couldn't help but wince at the unexpected interruption while Zane merely smirked.

"Did you even eat anything before coming here?" Zane inquired, an eyebrow raised.

Scratching the back of my head, I admitted, "Guess I kinda forgot after my checkup."

Zane shook his head in mock exasperation.

"You really should take better care of yourself. How about joining me for dinner at the Obelisk Blue Dinery? On me."

I pretended to think it over before smirking, "Well, as long as you know that a free meal isn't going to change my 'feelings' for you."

He rolled his eyes dramatically. "Oh, what a shame," Zane retorted playfully, "and here I thought a good meal was the way to a duelist's heart."

With a shared laugh, we made our way to the Obelisk Blue dormitory's dining hall, looking forward to a hearty meal and some much-needed relaxation after a fierce duel.

---

AN: And that's a wrap. I hoped to bring Sora out of his slump with this chapter and add the unconventional duel between the two. Let me know if you guys liked or disliked this chapter, any feedback helps immensely.