On My Own
Chapter 10
Author Notes: I liiiiiveeeeeee...at least until the christmas one shot week-it's a never ending cycle of work lol. But here we go guys. Chapter 10. Big 1 and 0~ Let's get started, I do not own Yugioh.
3rd P.O.V
"Yusei...don't tell me you're going to still refuse their offer." It was a long day, he was hoping his brother would let the matter drop. "Would it be so bad if I did Rally?" But he should've known better. There was no way either of them were going to sleep soundly with Blisters' words ringing in their minds.
That would be too easy. "Other then the fact he threatened you? Uh...yeah! This is your chance to help people AND find your dad." If he was being honest there was a sliver of hope in his heart at that potential fact.
But there were two big reasons for why he didn't automatically jump at the opportunity and instead requested time to think it over. One of them was obviously the teen pouting at him from the couch. The second...well, it was a lot more complicated than what Rally was thinking.
"My dad abandoned me for the sake of his job. He left me and Martha thinking he was killed so he could freely move and do what he wished. I refuse to follow in his footsteps." There was a bitter underlining to his words.
Rally winced, but there was no rebuttal to that statement. What Yusei said was true. When Blister came to Martha's house on his birthday all those years ago, he lied to the both of them. Having no guilt whatsoever in doing such for the sake of the mission.
And Isao allowed it with no hesitation. "This is my home Rals, you are my priority. To him, I wasn't-I've long grown past waiting for him to come back." That should've been the end to the discussion, but the redhead refused to let it drop.
"But what about Crow? And the others? If what Blister says is true, then those guys in the underground are in serious trouble! This is your chance to do something. Saint Martha's can afford to shut its doors for a little while." The elder man shakes his head.
Feeling absolutely frustrated. Why couldn't Rally let this go? "If I leave, where will you go? Doesn't count paying the bills either." At that the sixteen year old shrugs. Not concerned whatsoever at the potential thought of being homeless...again!
Despite only a few hours of being given an incredible amount of confidential information he was not only taking this very well, but he also was well prepared to counter any of his big brother's excuses. This was something Yusei couldn't just say no to. He needed closure.
"I can always bunk with one of the guys. Or better yet they can come stay here with me to help keep the shop running. Nerv and Blitz already have the basics down as far as machinery and if need be can pick up one of your books to learn. Tank can help me with customer service and chores."
Besides even if the boys couldn't take over- Blister promised that he'd take over any payments Yusei handled while he was out saving the world. All the bases were covered...and they both knew it. Even if one of them didn't want to admit it.
The mechanic slumps down next to him on the sofa, leaning his head against the plush back. So tired, yet too wired to sleep. His younger sibling inches closer, prepared to give him his strongest puppy dog gaze when Yusei speaks. His voice low.
"You know there is a chance I won't come back. Or they'll demand I become an official agent if I do this? They'll do the same thing to me as they do to my father. This time however it'll be you abandoned." Rally bites his lip at his quiet statement.
Again he couldn't deny or say that what Yusei's saying is wrong. "I'm not a hero Rally. Even though they say it has to be me...I feel like there's more to it. They don't randomly corner a mechanic from the slums and tell them all of this top secret stuff and walk out with no issues."
A sigh escapes the both of them. Their exhales nearly in sync. "You're right. I may not understand all the stuff they said, but I'm not stupid." It sucks that their roles were in reverse as far as this topic was concerned.
It should be Yusei having to to be the one trying to convince Rally he should go instead of the other way around. But Yusei had a heart of gold full of justice. And that was why Rally had to send him off with a smile and reassurances.
"Yus...you've always done whatever needs to be done to help others. Whether it's me or a random joe on the streets you've done what you've felt was right. You ARE a hero. And I want you to for ONCE in your life do something for yourself."
Even if Blister is planning bullshit, Rally had absolute faith his sibling would return safe and sound. Because if he didn't-the J-IPA agent was going have to deal with a mini army ready to tear him to pieces. With the redhead leading the charge.
Still, as much as the circumstances around it sucked...Rally had to be the one encouraging him. Especially since there was no one else that could convince him. "Forget helping people or stopping the bad guys for a minute. Your dad has been a sensitive subject for years, you deserve answers. So do what you gotta do. Me and the guys will hang tight for you."
Tears were pricking Yusei's eyes. He didn't deserve such a stupid brat for a brother. "Thanks Rally." The little pain in his ass had the nerve to give him a thumbs up and a wink. "Anytime~" That deserved a noogie! But instead of vile insults and a playful struggle there was laughter.
One they cherished as there wouldn't be much time before Blister returned.
"Hey man you alright?" Groggy blue eyes blinked as the ceiling came into view. He saw white tiles before an orange broom took over his vision. "Dude you've been mumbling in your sleep. You with me?" Yusei sat up, muffling a yawn with his hand. "Who are you?" He almost stumbled with his words.
Being still so tired, Yusei wasn't completely functioning just yet-especially since he didn't have any sort of caffeine to perk him up. "The names Crow-I'm your new roommate during this seasons tournament." There were still so many things the newly established agent didn't know.
But now that he was somewhat more coherent, he had to play it smart and remain calm. He was Dust. Not Yusei. "A pleasure. I'm Dust Fairfite." A yawn comes forth, once more politely covered with his hand.
"Not much of a morning person are ya? Sorry for waking you but I was getting worried. Whatever dream you were having didn't seem to be a good one." Of all the participants he was forced to share living quarters with...it had to be Crow.
Lady Luck was really messing with him. "Apologies. I didn't mean to inconvenience you." A snort escaped the ginger as he waved his hand. "Dude, no need to be so polite. And you weren't an inconvenience or whatever. I was already up. Like I said I was just worried."
A stranger wasn't going to be at all a problem for Yusei to handle. Crow however was going to be a challenge. One false statement or inconsistent action and he'd be onto him in an instant. And that was the last thing he wanted.
"Are you always so laidback? Though I must say I'm surprised...I wasn't even aware we're given roommates during the competition." If his friend had any sneaking suspicions of his true identity he didn't show it.
Though he did raise an eyebrow as he took in Dust's extravagant attire. Even in sleep he seemed sophisticated. "I take it you're a newbie to this here underground ring?" Those familiar blue eyes look away.
Confirming Crow's suspicions, though his instincts were telling him something was up with this new guy. But he wouldn't pry, everyone has their skeletons in their closet. Besides he had just met the guy, as much of a snoop as he could be-it was way too soon.
"Figured as much. Well to answer your first question. So long as you're not an asshole there won't be any problems between us. And secondly, it depends. Usually we each get our own rooms. But when there's a ton of participants, they put people together so there's more space."
It sounded more like people entering some sort of private school then entering a secret, illegal tournament but it at least explained why there were so many people walking around. "I see. Well I'll do my utmost not to cause you any trouble." A chuckle escapes the shorter male.
He couldn't believe how formal his new roommate was. "Dude you need to lighten up-seriously!" Dust couldn't help smiling. "I'd rather not. Especially since we may end up having to face each other." His smile turning wry as Crow rolls his eyes. "God you remind me of someone."
A sigh escapes him as he plops onto his own bed. Immediately Dust had to backpedal in confusion. "I do?" The ginger duelist's expression thoughtful. His gaze eyeing Dust up and down once more.
"I mean. Kinda? Even though you're polite there's this undertone cockiness you got. I dunno. Maybe it's because I'm missing him but I feel like you guys are caught from the same cloth." His heart was pounding against his chest.
Deep, painful thuds. He should've changed the subject or distracted him. But Yusei...there was something within him that made him want to ask Crow. To know if the words the ginger told him all those weeks ago was the truth.
To see if he truly valued the friendship they once and to an extent do have. "Do we look similar to one another? I'm usually told that there aren't too many people who have characteristics like mine." He was doing his utmost to keep himself composed.
This was his first real obstacle as Dust. If he couldn't trick his old high school buddy, then he wasn't going to last very long here. Plus, like Rally told him back after Blister first came to him that he deserved answers. Though it was more or less for his father, it didn't hurt learning about his friends.
"Nah, like I said it's more a personality thing. Though...I wouldn't be too sure where I stand with him. Things are-well complicated." Crow frowned as he rested his palms on the sheets. Deep in thought he glances up at the ceiling. He's silent for a few moments, making Yusei nerves stand on end.
But before the gentleman duelist could apologize or try to change the subject, his friend continues quietly. It didn't even seem like he was aware of Dust being there as he spoke. There was this underlining of fear and guilt to go along with his honesty. Something that neither Yusei or his persona was prepared for.
"Truth is I messed up big time with him. He's a good guy who despite his shitty luck, always puts his all into whatever he's doing. Me and some other friends of ours had a serious falling out. It took years for me to utter the courage to see him and try to explain my side of things. But...without meaning to I hurt him."
There was anguish in his gray eyes. Regret and shame shining in the light of their room. He truly was sorry for how things played out in their high school days. If he was given the option to go back in time to change things-he'd do so in a heartbeat.
If for nothing then to at least stay in touch, to show that he cared. "What was his response? You stated you explained quote on quote 'your side of things."
'Dust' already knew the answer to his own question. Still, he couldn't stop himself from asking. If for nothing else then to see how Crow would react to such a personal question. To see if he would remain honest. But of course...Yusei wasn't surprised with the response he got.
"Ha. He said I'd have to gain the trust I lost back, but he didn't kick my ass like I was expecting. Though considering things, he couldn't of even if he wanted to-er point is...he gave me a chance to make things right and I plan on doing it." Yusei released a small sigh.
Not even aware that he was holding his breath. "If that is the case, I do not see the issue then. Sounds like this friend of yours is willing to let go of the darkness within him in order to move on. Perhaps you should do the same." His roommate crooks his smile a tad. If only it were so simple.
"As much as I appreciate the advice it ain't that easy. I know I still got a long way to go before things get better. But I'm willing to wait as long as it takes and do whatever to earn that friendship back. He didn't deserve anything he went through back then. Once I win this tournament I'm gonna see him again-and hopefully he won't punch my lights out."
A small chuckle was shared between the two. Though Yusei had no intention of beating the crap out of Crow(for now) it was funny seeing how intimidated the hot headed duelist was of him. Out of their old friend group-Yusei was considered the most merciful of the bunch.
Never picking a fight unless thrown his way first or someone was in desperate need of help. Something that still held true today. Though, as much as he appreciated Crow's honesty...there was one thing he just had to comment on.
"So bold of you to assume you're going to win. You do realize you have to defeat me and a couple dozen others in order to achieve that?" Sheepishly his companion rubs the back of his head.
Though he doesn't apologize. "Well not to brag but I'm ranked number four of the top ten duelists that have competed and won these here underground rings. I'm one of the crowd favorites. Sorry man but with you and most of the folks here complete newbs and me not wanting to go back empty handed...I'm not losing." Those were fighting words.
Ones that both Yusei and his Dust persona were not going to back down from. "Is that so...well I guess we'll just have to wait and see when we reach the finals then." At that Crow laughs, holding his belly before falling over his bed to land painfully on the floor.
Despite the embarrassing fall, he couldn't stop himself from grinning ear to ear at his new friend turned rival. "Guess so." Crow couldn't wait to see just how good this guy really is. "Let's see how far you can reach newbie."
to be continued
Author Notes: So what do you think guys? We got some backstory on what made Yusei agree to this crazy idea, some interactions between "Dust" and Crow-hinting towards fun times. It's going to be interesting for sure~
But let's stop that here. Everyone thank you all so much for reading this story. If you like this please feel free to fav/follow/review as it would mean so much to me. I'll see you all next time. Tchao for now~
