The plane's engines rumbled to a quiet hum as I stepped onto the jet bridge, the familiar sensation of solid ground beneath me.
Though the journey from Duel Academy was a solitary one, with Jaden, Alexis, and the rest catching different flights home, I wasn't lonely.
If anything, thoughts of my upcoming winter vacation filled my mind, pushing aside any sense of solitude.
The corridors of the airport were alive with people, everyone rushing to their destinations, but I moved at my own leisurely pace.
Thoughts of Koyo and the rest of my adoptive family brought warmth to my heart.
The Hibiki family took me in when no one else would, and now, the idea of spending this break with them was an oasis of comfort.
I could almost taste the home-cooked meals and hear the gentle teasing from Koyo about my dueling escapades at the academy, Midori teasing him in return about the duels and slight misplays he did, while Ms. Hibiki would watch on with a warm smile.
It felt surreal that only a semester ago I was here, nervous and excited about what lay ahead.
And now, returning with so many experiences, duels, friendships, and even rivalries, I felt a sense of accomplishment.
But beyond the prestige of the academy, I was yearning for the simple joys of home.
The laughter, the camaraderie, the feeling of belonging.
With Koyo and his family, I wasn't just an orphan or a student; I was part of something bigger, a family.
The chill of winter was nothing compared to the warmth these thoughts brought me.
Even then...
Jeez...
The frosty wind stung my cheeks, reminding me of how brisk winters in the city could be.
But for some reason, it didn't feel as bad than usual does.
Duel Academy is a lot of things, but it never got this chilly.
The temperature seems to be pretty warm all year round.
My breath misted before me, each exhale a testament to the drastic change in temperature.
Even though my coat was snug around me, I could still feel the biting but inviting cold.
Duel Academy was an isolated world of its own.
Coming back to the city, with its sounds, lights, and people, was a stark reminder of the life I once knew.
The honks of car horns and the laughter of people hustling through the streets brought back a rush of memories.
This was the environment where I had grown up, where I had played, laughed, cried, and found a family in the Hibikis.
Man... I am going to have so much fun in this break.
Koyo's home after his world tour and championships, he had been dying to know what I was up to.
My PDA has been buzzing constantly ever since he got home.
As I approached the bus stand, my anticipation grew.
I couldn't wait to get back to Koyo and share all my experiences with him.
His teachings had played a big part in my success at the academy.
Plus, I missed my family – the warmth, the fun, and even the disagreements.
Midori's home too.
She finally finished job hunting and she is excited to start her new job.
But for some reason, she wanted to keep it a surprise for me, for whatever reason.
I'm fine with that.
If she wants to keep it a surprise, then I don't mind.
I was brought out of my thoughts when a familiar shade of brown caught my attention.
It was Jasmine.
She sat there, engrossed with her flip-phone, her short wavy brown hair cascading just over her shoulders.
Her presence was a surprise.
What was she doing here?
A wave of nostalgia washed over me.
Our past encounters hadn't always been the smoothest, and seeing her again brought a mix of emotions.
Should I approach her?
The internal debate raged within me.
On one hand, the allure of greeting her was strong.
On the other, our past could make things awkward.
And then there was the risk that she might not even remember me.
Gathering my courage, I took a deep breath and decided to walk up to her.
But just as I took my first step, the shrill honk of an arriving bus pierced the chilly air, grabbing her attention.
As she stood up, our eyes met.
For a fleeting moment, there was a spark of recognition, followed by a hint of surprise.
"Err... uh, hey." I weakly waved at her.
The brown haired girl squinted before relaxing.
"Huh... Sora?" she replied, her voice filled with slight shock and indifference. "Didn't expect to see you here."
Sometimes, life has a way of putting you exactly where you need to be.
Whether it was fate or coincidence, that chilly winter night was about to take an unexpected turn.
The sleek, silver bus pulled up with a gentle hiss, momentarily capturing my attention.
Looking at Jasmine, I pointed at it, trying to change the subject, hoping it was her ride.
However, she merely gave it a cursory glance and a nonchalant shrug.
"That's not the bus I'm waiting for." She replied simply, seemingly uninterested.
She returned to her seat, and after a moment's hesitation, I decided to sit beside her.
The atmosphere was thick with unease, both of us seemingly searching for the right words.
I had duel many times, but now, faced with a mere conversation, it felt like a tougher challenge.
Jasmine finally broke the silence, her voice slightly hesitant.
"Hey, what do you think of Alexis?"
Huh?
Alexis?
Why her?
Caught off guard, I blinked, "What do you mean?"
My voice trailed off, the weight of her gaze making me uncomfortable.
"Ever since that duel you had with her, I've been watching you," she admitted, her tone revealing nothing of her thoughts. "I don't usually pay attention unless someone interests me. Dueling-wise, of course."
Realization dawned on me.
I had felt Jasmine's eyes on me numerous times after our duel, but to have it confirmed was a different feeling.
"She's a good friend," I replied cautiously.
She nodded slowly as she took in my answer.
"Huh, if you say so." She replied, the awkward silence now coming back in full force. "She is a good friend..."
Her voice was filled with nostalgia and had a slight inflection of admiration.
"Yeah, she really cares about her friends. She has been looking out for me ever since I transferred to Obelisk Blue."
Though the one time where she basically shadowed me, kinda makes me a little wary of her.
Then again, she might be looking out for me since we go way back.
At least I think she is looking out for me...
"That's sounds just like her alright. She is a really nice girl, even to people like me." Jasmine added with a self-deprecating smile. "It was weird that she didn't like you at first, ya know?"
My mind flitted back to the playground incident, where I had used Metamorphosis on her precious Princess of Tsurugi and how I dumped most of her favorite cards into the graveyard with my milling.
It probably stirred some residual anger, making her wary of me and my dueling style at first.
A silent grudge that had needed mending.
Jasmine continued, her voice slightly coarse.
"I was fortunate to make it to prep school. Didn't quite blend in with my way of speaking, and my mother's criminal history didn't help."
"I'm sorry," I murmured, feeling a pang of empathy.
She waved it off dismissively.
"Honestly, I'm glad that bitch is in prison. My dad's been a better parent in every way." Her voice quivered slightly, hinting at a depth of pain she rarely showcased.
I could relate to Jasmine's struggles, given my own turbulent history.
But that was a part of me I wasn't ready to share.
Not yet.
"In prep school, I was the odd one out, you know? Lotta of the girls didn't want anything to do with a girl who had a single parent." Jasmine continued, her face brightening a bit, "But that was until I met Alexis and Mindy. Alexis extended a hand of friendship when no one else did. She helped me through prep school, and I owe a lot of where I am today to her."
It was heartwarming to hear.
Beyond the duels, rivalries, and academy drama, genuine bonds of friendship were being forged.
Bonds that transcended backgrounds and pasts.
After a brief pause, I gathered the courage to turn the tables on her, "So... is that why you asked about Alexis? Are you... I dunno, interested in me?"
Without missing a beat, Jasmine replied, "Heh, if you're thinking about a crush or some shit, then nope."
The bluntness of her answer felt like a slap, taking me aback.
My heart, though battle-hardened from numerous duels, felt the sting of her dismissal.
"Cold..."
Jasmine's smirk caught my attention, pulling me from the tapestry of thoughts weaving inside my mind.
"Aw, c'mon. You know, Alexis doesn't like guys who wilt after a minor setback," she teased, her eyes gleaming with mischief.
I couldn't help but chuckle.
"Why the sudden mention of Alexis again?" I mused aloud, genuinely intrigued.
Jasmine leaned back, locking her fingers behind her head.
"Like I said before, I've been keeping tabs on you. I wanted to see if that win against Alexis was just a fluke or not. After seeing you duel against Bastion and pulling a draw with Zane," she paused, her gaze assessing me, "I've come to think there's more to you than meets the eye."
I chuckled, "Flattered by the scrutiny. So, are you gauging me for a duel?"
She laughed – it was genuine, unrestrained. "Always straight to the point, aren't you? You're funny," she remarked.
I decided to push my luck. "If it's a challenge you're hinting at, I'm game."
Jasmine tilted her head, her smirk now replaced with a contemplative look.
"Might be interesting, but not today," she replied coyly. "We'll see how the next semester goes."
The rhythmic hum of an approaching bus signaled the end of our brief encounter.
She stood up, slinging her bag over her shoulder.
"That's my ride. Take care of yourself, ya hear?" she said, her voice laced with genuine warmth.
"Yeah. See you next semester, Jasmine," I replied, a hopeful note in my voice.
"It's Junko... Jasmine's my nickname."
Huh... her nickname huh?
"Err... right, see you, Junko."
She gave me a toothy grin as she entered the bus.
As the bus pulled away, I took a moment to reflect.
Our conversation, albeit short, felt like a prelude to the many challenges and duels that lay ahead.
The city's bright lights seemed to twinkle in agreement, and the streets resonated with the echoes of my determination.
The next semester couldn't come soon enough.
The cold winter air nipped at my face as I approached my apartment building.
The sight of it gave me a comforting familiarity amidst the dynamic life at Duel Academy.
Huh, how long has it been since I left for the entrance exams?
It really does feel like a couple months...
Shuffling through my thoughts, I reminded myself to unpack at my apartment first before visiting the Hibikis.
Living independently had been my choice.
Despite the Hibiki family's insistent offers for me to stay after they'd adopted me, I wanted to strike out on my own.
To them, my moving out might've seemed too soon, but for me, it was a gesture, a silent way of expressing my gratitude for their unyielding kindness.
Pushing open the door, the warmth of my apartment greeted me.
"I'm home," I murmured, half-expecting the echo of silence to greet me back.
That's weird, the lights are on.
Instead, a chorus of familiar voices surprised me, "Welcome home!"
I blinked in surprise.
Koyo, with his towering frame, sat on the tatami mats.
Beside him, Midori and Ms. Hibiki smiled warmly at me.
"Koyo? What are all of you doing here?" My voice trailed off in pleasant astonishment. "Heh, it's great to see you guys again."
Koyo rose from the mat, nearly brushing the ceiling with his head.
"Right back at ya, Kazzy. Thought we'd help you unpack. And, well, someone had to pick you up, right?"
I chuckled, "A call would've been nice. Besides, I live right next door, remember?"
Midori waved me off.
"Knowing you, you would take your sweet time unpacking, isn't that right, Kazzy?"
I playfully frowned at how much she knew my methodology.
"Yeah, yeah..."
Koyo took the suitcase from me and grinned, eyeing me from top to bottom.
"Seems like Duel Academy did more than just hone your dueling skills. Got yourself a little growth spurt, haven't you?"
I wouldn't be lying if that comment provided a small ego boost for me, especially since it's coming from him of all people.
"Maybe," I smirked, standing a bit taller. "But I'm still nowhere near your height. Seriously, why are you so freakishly tall? Did you grow another inch while I was gone?"
If I remember right, he had an interview with this lady and she asked him how tall he was.
And as expected from him, he gave a half-hearted answer of being 2 meters.
Crazy thing is, he wasn't off by much...
Ms. Hibiki laughed, "Honestly, I wonder the same thing sometimes. His growth spurts were one of the reasons why we had to pad our doorways..."
Koyo pursed his lips and whipped his head back to his mother.
"Mom! Come on...!"
Our laughter filled the room, making the apartment feel more like home than it ever had.
I continued to stared at Koyo, my eyebrow raised.
The tall figure returned the stare with a playful frown.
"Kazzy," he began, emphasizing the nickname only the Hibikis used for me, "I don't recall you being this sassy when we first met."
A smirk formed on my face.
"Well, time changes things, doesn't it? Plus, it might be my rebellious teenage phase. Mostly, though, it's just fun."
Midori, who had been quietly chuckling at our banter, piped up.
"Oh, Koyo, you were just the same. You should've seen him, Kazzy. I'd say you got your snark from him."
Koyo shot her a mock glare.
"Ah, so now you're teaming up against me? I remember when it was us against the world."
Sighing in exasperation, Midori retorted, "That's because you always made me run to get snacks in the middle of the night!"
"Hey, you started that trend!"
Their playful squabbles never ceased to make me smile.
They reminded me of the old days when we'd hang out after my medical appointments and school, scheming and plotting little adventures.
Ms. Hibiki, ever the peacekeeper, stepped in, her voice a soft lilt, "Oh, you two! Some things never change."
Despite the two arguing, it was obvious that it wasn't born out any discontent.
Deep down, I know they're as close as ever.
I chuckled, "They do have their moments."
Koyo shot me a glance, his eyes sparkling with mischief, "Come on, Kazzy, let's get you unpacked before we spend the entire night bickering."
As we walked around my room, Koyo glanced around, probably reminiscing about the times he'd crashed at my place.
We began unpacking my bags.
The Hibikis chatted and laughed, turning the mundane task into a joyful one.
Despite the few belongings I had, their mere presence made the apartment feel lively.
Midori shared stories from her college, Ms. Hibiki spoke about the neighborhood, and Koyo, ever the big brother, kept sneaking peeks at my stuff, ensuring I had everything I needed.
In no time, with many hands making light work, my apartment started feeling more like a home.
Once we finished, Koyo clapped his hands together, "Alright, Kazzy, done and dusted! Now, what do you say about a small celebration, tomorrow, huh? Your treat, of course."
I smirked, "Of course. As long as you promise not to eat everything on the menu."
Ms. Hibiki chuckled, "Well, with the way things are going, I see a lot more playful bickering in our future."
As I looked around at my chosen family, I couldn't help but agree.
The warmth of the Hibiki apartment enveloped us as soon as we stepped in.
Its spaciousness, the familiar scent, and the feeling of nostalgia made me feel instantly at ease.
We all settled in the living room, and I could hear the low hum of the city outside.
The room's soft lighting cast a mellow glow on everything, making it all seem even more homey.
While we were waiting for the food, Midori, with a twinkle in her eye, made her announcement.
"So... guess who's going to be the new teacher and dean of Slifer Red?"
I blinked, taken aback.
Ah, so this was the surprise she was talking about.
"You? At Duel Academy?" The surprise was evident in my voice. "Wow... congrats!"
Midori was always involved in one project or another, but joining Duel Academy was unexpected.
"Yup! It's part of the new initiative the Academy's doing. They are thinking of having more girls enroll there, so they figured they add in some teachers like us in the lower dorms."
Huh, that sounds neat.
So there are going to be more girls next year, I'm guessing, right?
If that's the case then...!
"I'm not liking the look on your face, Kazzy..." Midori deadpanned as she crossed her arms.
Koyo chuckled, leaning back in his chair.
"Ah, that's just his teenage hormones acting up. He's a growing boy!" He stated, defending my possibly ill intents. "But hey, imagine if you'd flunked the entrance exams, Kazzy. You could've had Midori as your dean, hehe."
She shot him a mock glare, "Sora has worked way too hard to land in Slifer Red. Besides, he's already an Obelisk Blue, which is where he belongs."
There was an evident pride in her voice, which made my heart swell.
It was true that my journey to Obelisk Blue was marked by sweat, determination, and countless duels, or at the very least, just one duel.
But that's not accounting for that dumb hazing ritual.
Koyo, ever the mischievous one, rolled his eyes.
"Come on, Slifer Red is where the fun is at. I mean, come on... Everyone at Ra Yellow and Obelisk Blue are so uptight. Right, Kazzy?"
Hmm, that isn't necessarily true.
But then again, I didn't go to Duel Academy when Koyo was enrolled.
So who knows how much was different back then.
I laughed, "Well, I won't deny that hanging with the Slifers is a lot of fun. But, there's something about the luxury of Obelisk Blue. I mean, I get my own bathroom!"
I deliberately left out the part about Ra Yellow having the same feature, just to poke a bit more fun.
Koyo sighed, shaking his head with amusement.
"You and your luxuries... Back in my day, us Reds used to go to the bathroom together. It's what kept my bonds with my former classmates tight..." he commented before redirecting his attention to the TV.
Midori and I eyed him with varying levels of unease.
...
That's something I don't want to hear more about.
Midori leaned closer to me, whispering, "Hey, I know I'm going to take my job there seriously. But you know, between us, Slifer Red really is going to be fun with me around."
I shrugged, "I don't doubt that for a second."
Midori does have a tendency to slack off, but when the time calls for it, she can be a hard worker.
Our banter was interrupted by the doorbell, signaling the arrival of our food.
As Koyo jumped up to get it, I thought about the coming semester with Midori at the Academy.
I hope Midori isn't the only female teacher in Slifer Red...
The feeling that she may have more eyes on her makes me a little uneasy.
The simple thought of seeing the Reds be mesmerized by Midori's beauty makes me frown.
Wait, why am I thinking like a possessive boyfriend?
When Koyo opened the door, however, it was a package rather than a delivery person with bags of delicious food.
"Mom, the new pressure cooker's here!" Koyo announced, holding the package like a prized possession. "Did ya buy this?"
Heh, he thought the food arrived.
"Yes, I did, honey! It was on sale on Alazon! Can't go wrong with having a new pressure cooker!"
I chuckled to myself; leave it to Koyo to be disappointed about a package when he was expecting food.
I teased him, noting that his legendary appetite was still very much intact.
"Still hungry as always, huh? Is that the secret to your towering height?"
Koyo shot me a playful glare, but before he could retort, he plunged his hand into a nearby snack bag, only to discover it was empty.
"Oh... we're out of snacks."
Midori's eyebrows shot up, "Wait a minute... where's my Sakura mochi? I bought a bunch before coming home today!"
Innocently, with crumbs probably still lingering around his mouth, Koyo pointed at her, "I dunno. You ate them."
I had to stifle a chuckle, especially when Ms. Hibiki chimed in.
"You two," she sighed, addressing both her children, "You're adults now. You can't keep snacking like children. It's going to catch up to you eventually."
Their guilty expressions were priceless.
If there was one trait that Koyo and Midori undeniably shared, it was their insatiable love for snacks.
And a tendency, I noted, to conveniently overlook their mother's words of caution.
Seeing the empty snack bag and the two dejected faces, I stood up.
"Want me to go grab some snacks?"
Ms. Hibiki tried to protest, probably thinking about healthy eating or the dinner that was soon to arrive.
But her voice was drowned out by the excited "Yes!" from both Koyo and Midori.
I couldn't help but smile.
Sure, I was teasing them earlier, but I had to admit, I was in the mood for snacks too.
With a resigned sigh, Ms. Hibiki just shook her head.
"The two of you are incorrigible, taking advantage of Kazzy's kindness."
Koyo grinned and waved a reassuring hand at his mother.
"Oh, it's fine, mom! Kazzy will be back before dinner gets delivered!"
Ms. Hibiki continued to shake her head towards her children.
"Alright, I'll be getting the usual, Koyo's favorite Onion and Garlic flavored chips, and Midori's Sakura Mochi..."
The two siblings exchanged looks and gave me an energetic nod.
With that, I put my shoes on and unlocked the door.
"Wait!"
A change of plans...?
Before I could leave, I felt Midori's arms wrap around me in a warm embrace.
I remembered when I was younger, she used to be so much taller than me.
But now, the roles were reversed.
I towered over her, and her head rested just below my chin.
But the warmth and comfort of her hug, a reminder of our shared childhood, remained the same.
The comfort of the embrace was momentarily overshadowed by a bout of nostalgia.
Midori had always been the warm, sisterly figure in my childhood, and every hug from her was a reminder of those innocent days.
But now, as a teenager, my perspective on certain things had shifted.
My sixteen, now soon to be seventeen year mind was still raging with hormones after all, though not as much as before.
There was another reason I enjoyed Midori's hugs, a slightly mischievous one but I wasn't brave enough to voice out loud.
"Thanks for buying the snacks."
Uh...
Why isn't she letting go of me?
My cheeks reddened as the embrace lingered.
"Yeah... no problem. Hey, could I go now?"
Midori's sudden deep breath startled me and it was there something in the back of my mind blared warnings.
Then, without warning, she began sniffing me, her face drawing closer.
"Something... is off." She whispered.
I could feel her breath, her movements methodical and deliberate, and I was paralyzed for a moment.
Why is Midori sniffing at me like this?!
"Kazzy... Have you been hugging other girls lately?" Midori asked, her eyes narrowing with suspicion.
Her tone had lacked the same warm and comforting inflection from before.
What the heck?
What kind of question is that?
And how did she know that?
I showered after the duel against Jinzo!
She pulled away to look me straight in the eyes, searching for a hint of guilt.
"Please don't lie to your older sister..."
I felt my back shiver from the odd statement.
Older sister?
Even though we aren't related she usually says something like that when she is upset.
Caught off-guard by the intensity of her question, I replied, "Well, uh... I did help a girl during a duel. She needed some moral support, so I kept her close."
What I failed to mention was that it wasn't just any duel - it was the high-stakes Shadow Duel against Jinzo.
I did hold Alexis up since she was struggling to stand...
My explanation seemed to darken Midori's mood further.
The sparkle in her eyes dimmed, replaced by a distant, contemplative look.
The shift in the atmosphere was immense, though it seemed I was the only one who sensed it.
Midori's expression darkened further, an undercurrent of something I couldn't quite place.
It looked like her eyes had no light in them whatsoever.
The room's atmosphere thickened, an unsettling tension in the air.
Still, it seemed I was the only one who sensed this ominous shift.
Ms. Hibiki clapped her hands, "Ah, that's my Kazzy! Such a gentleman!"
And Koyo, in his usual boisterous manner, teased me, "Heheh, looks like someone's being a ladies man, huh? Ah, they grow up so fast!"
All the while, I felt the weight of Midori's stare, giving me a strange sensation of unease.
"You should introduce her for me." She requested with an eerie smile. "Otherwise, your older sister won't be at peace."
Feeling increasingly uncomfortable, I waved at the two.
"Right... I will! Look, I'll be back in a bit!" I stated as I nearly bolted out of the room.
It was a welcome escape from the suddenly strange and oppressive atmosphere, and I hoped that when I returned, things would be back to normal.
The brisk embrace of the city's cold night air wasn't as off-putting to me as it once was.
It was a welcome escape from the suddenly strange and oppressive atmosphere, and I hoped that when I returned, things would be back to normal.
As I walked along the city streets, feeling the chill settle on my skin, I felt oddly reassured.
Maybe my newfound tolerance for the cold had something to do with that unexpected ice barrier I conjured during the shadow duel against Jinzo.
I found it curious how, in a moment of desperation, I had formed a protective shell of ice.
Each step I took was punctuated by the memory of that duel.
The icy shield was surprising enough, but the guardian-like aura that had emerged, standing between me and imminent danger, was even more perplexing.
I can't shake off the possiblity that whatever that aura was, could it have been my spirit and guardian?
Jaden has Winged Kuriboh, and it makes me wonder if perhaps I have one too.
A force or being that watches over me in times of dire need.
I made a mental note to discuss this with Jaden later; maybe he could provide some insights.
As I entered the convenience store, the warm fluorescent lighting snapped me back to reality.
I started browsing through the aisles, searching for the specific snacks Koyo and Midori had mentioned.
Hmm, let's see if they have them on stock...
Yep, there we go.
As I reached to pick up a packet from the top shelf, a brief flash of a familiar silver hair color caught my eye from the next aisle over.
Is that...?
Nah, that's too much of a coincidence.
A strand of thoughts spiraled in my mind, suggesting that it might be someone I knew.
The temptation to peek and confirm bubbled inside me, but given the day I had, I chose not to let curiosity lead the way.
I had a singular focus: get the snacks and get back to the safety of the Hibiki apartment.
As I browsed through the aisles, my eyes landed on a familiar soda.
Memories washed over me; that particular flavor always had a special place in my heart.
But as I approached the refrigerated section to get a better look, another familiar sight took precedence over my soft drink musings.
There, right beside the fridge, was Fujimoto.
Her striking silver hair was unmistakable, cascading down in waves and shimmering under the store lights.
Her eyes, a deep shade of violet, met mine and for a moment, time seemed to stop.
She looked different, more casual than I'd seen her at school, with her hoodie and jeans outfit.
It was clear she was just as taken aback as I was.
For a second, my instinct was to retreat.
I wasn't particularly eager to face the tension between us, so I slowly turned around and walked off.
But before I could make a quiet exit, I felt a tug on my shirt.
I turned around to find Fujimoto gripping it, her expression a mix of determination and vulnerability.
Her words broke the uneasy silence.
"Is this how you greet someone? Isn't that a little rude?" she inquired, a hint of jest in her tone.
I rubbed the back of my neck sheepishly, "I... I thought you didn't like me, Fujimoto."
A shade of pink tinted her cheeks as she fumbled for words, "I... I don't hate you, Sora. I never did..."
Her eyes dropped as if searching for the right words.
"Hey... are we... friends?" she hesitated.
My heart missed a beat.
The Fujimoto I had known was strong-willed and fierce, but this version of her was completely different.
Her vulnerable demeanor was surprisingly endearing.
A thought snuck into my mind - she looked incredibly cute this way.
And not to mention, I am getting some crazy deja vu, right now.
It is as I seen something like this, a long time ago...
She deepened her bow, her grip still firm on my shirt.
Now, are we friends?
That is something I can't answer honestly, especially since I am the one who's been messing with the so-called timeline or storyline.
As if reading my thoughts, her grip grew much tighter.
"I'm sorry for how I acted in school," she admitted softly.
Her voice was barely audible over the ambient noise of the store.
"And it's hard for me to believe you're a main character, but I promise I'll treat you as such from now on."
I wasn't entirely sure what she meant by "main character", but looking into her earnest violet eyes, I decided not to question it.
"Look, just... treat me like a normal guy, and I will do the same for you. Treating me like a main character gives me the heebie-jeebies."
That had brought some light into her previous sullen eyes.
"I-I will!"
I sighed, nodding with a slight smile.
"Alright, Fujimoto. I guess we are friends now."
The sudden change in our dynamic was unexpected, but not unwelcome.
A part of me hoped this chance encounter would be the start of a new chapter in our relationship.
A chapter where we could move past the misunderstandings and genuinely get to know each other.
But for now, I was just content with buying my favorite soda and heading back home.
And I can't forget about the snacks.
The hum of the overhead lights and the soft chatter of customers filled the store as Fujimoto and I stood in line.
The sensation of her fingers lightly wrapped around my sleeve was peculiarly familiar, but I couldn't place why.
I could only wonder if we'd had some interaction in the past that I had forgotten.
Trying to recall, I was suddenly jolted back to the present when Fujimoto let go, her cheeks flushed.
"I'm sorry," she began, her voice soft and a tad embarrassed. "It's... a habit. I used to do this with someone a long time ago. Or at least, I think I did."
Her gaze dropped to the floor for a split second, a shadow of a memory perhaps.
She didn't elaborate, and I didn't push further.
Some memories were meant to be kept private.
But then her gaze shifted to the plethora of snacks cradled in my arms.
A small laugh escaped her lips.
"Anyway, are you planning a party or feeding an army?" she teased.
I chuckled, "Just a family gathering. My siblings have quite the appetite. What about you?"
She tilted her head, indicating her own small pile.
"Ehehe, and here I am with only a few bags and sodas. My parents aren't exactly fans of snacks, given their... more refined tastes," Fujimoto explained, her tone a bit sarcastic. "So, I go on these covert snack missions every so often."
I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at her choice of disguise.
A hoodie and jeans didn't exactly scream 'undercover', but it was amusing nonetheless.
Before I could make a playful retort, the cashier signaled for the next customer.
I moved to place my items on the counter, intending to also pay for Fujimoto's as a friendly gesture.
But, in a swift move that caught me by surprise, she snatched the snacks from my grasp and handed them to the cashier along with her own pile.
"Consider it a peace offering," she said with a sweet smile, pulling out her wallet.
I could only stare, momentarily flustered.
This was not how I'd expected our interaction to go, but it was pleasantly surprising.
The warm glint in her eyes was a far cry from the frosty exterior she had shown at school.
"Um... thanks for paying for the snacks. I can pay you back right now, if you want."
She simply shook her head.
"It's fine, I meant what I said when this was a peace offering. Besides, I want to make it up to you, okay?"
I nodded with a small smile.
"Alright. Still, I appreciate it."
Emerging from the warm glow of the store, the brisk chill of the night made its presence known immediately.
I could see Fujimoto tensing up against the cold, her shoulders shuddering slightly.
Even though she put on a brave face and brushed off my concerns, it was evident that she was affected by the cold.
"I think we should part ways here," she stated, her breath forming small clouds in the cold air.
While it would be easier for me to nod and head back home, the thought of her navigating the dimly lit streets alone didn't sit well with me.
"You sure? I could walk you home," I offered, trying to sound casual, but underlying it was genuine concern.
Her eyes widened a fraction, then shifted, as if she was weighing the idea.
"What about your family?" she asked, teasingly. "Aren't they waiting for those snacks?"
I smirked, "Well, they shouldn't have snacks before dinner anyway."
Fujimoto's laughter danced through the cold air, a melodious sound that instantly warmed my spirit.
"Your siblings sound... lively," she commented. "I didn't expect you to be the older brother."
"Oh, you have no idea," I replied, my thoughts drifting to my ever-energetic siblings.
As our feet crunched on the frosty pavement, I couldn't help but notice her occasional shiver.
This girl...
She's going to get a cold at this point.
Before I could think twice, I was slipping off my coat and draping it over her shoulders.
She froze for a moment, her violet eyes meeting mine, clearly taken aback by the gesture.
It's amusing how, for someone who always appeared so assertive and unyielding, there's this side to Fujimoto – almost delicate and undeniably feminine.
Her blush was evident, even under the dim lights of the street.
I grinned, realizing the coat was oversized for her, making her look endearingly small.
The corners of her lips twitched as she attempted to smother a smile, all the while tugging at the coat, as if trying to hide herself in it.
"You really are a oddity in this world..." she mused, her voice barely above a whisper.
A slight teasing tone, but there was an undeniable warmth there.
"Yeah, don't mention it," I replied, "Honestly, the cold doesn't bother me much."
Walking side by side, the chill of the evening barely noticeable, Fujimoto's musings caught my attention.
"You know, Sora," she began, her voice thoughtful, "For someone who's supposed to be in the background or a mob character, you're showing some real bravery."
I raised an eyebrow, curious.
"Hm? What do you mean?"
She glanced at me, a hint of surprise in her eyes, then explained, "You stepping up against Titan, helping Alexis with Jinzo... it's commendable. Jaden, he's the one always scripted to save the day. But with how things are unfolding, that narrative seems to be changing."
A shiver of unease passed through me.
"Scripted? What are you talking about?"
Her eyes turned distant.
"In the story I know, Jaden was supposed to face Jinzo alone. Titan too. And remember when you were in Ra Yellow? You weren't supposed to duel Bastion for that seat in Obelisk Blue." She paused, collecting her thoughts, "But now, others are stepping into the limelight. And that makes things... intriguing."
I stopped walking, trying to process her words.
Is our reality really just a version of another story?
"Fujimoto... before you came to this world, what was yours like?"
She took a moment before answering, her gaze wandering the stars above.
"It was peaceful, for the most part. The Occult and dueling weren't as deeply ingrained as they are here. Heh, they didn't call dueling as Duel Monsters either.This is my second chance at life, and I had planned to live it quietly, without entangling myself with the story's main events. But with the changes you've unknowingly made, I don't know if that's still possible."
Guilt welled up inside me.
Did my actions inadvertently changed her fate?
Our fates?
The weight of responsibility felt heavy, especially since I too wished for a life separate from the events of the so-called plot.
I looked at her, remorse evident in my eyes.
"I'm so sorry, Fujimoto. I didn't mean to change things."
Her smile was gentle, forgiving.
"It's not your fault, Sora. From what I've seen so far, this world isn't a carbon copy of the GX. I knew even before the changes started happening, something was off. The rules might be changing, and my knowledge of future events might not be as accurate anymore... But, I hope I can help somehow."
We continued walking, the silence comfortable.
"Hmm..."Fujimoto began, brushing a strand of silver hair behind her ear, "with the way things are rolling now, I haven't nailed down an actual plan. There are just too many things to account for. But one thing I do know, is the Shadow Riders. Their end game's about reviving the sacred beasts."
I raised an eyebrow, genuinely curious, "Sacred beasts?"
She nodded.
"Yeah, they are the counterparts of the Egyptian God cards, or at least weaker, demonic versions of them."
What, so like the Wicked Beasts?
I remember the King of Games having to deal with those alternative God cards.
Taking a deep breath, I tried to soak in the information.
Fujimoto's casual tone about these events was a sharp contrast to the weight they carried.
But even so, something about her confidence was reassuring.
"Alright, so these 'Sacred Beasts,' they're like the academy's wannabe Egyptian Gods?"
Fujimoto chuckled, kicking a small pebble off the path.
"Pretty much," she replied, her violet eyes twinkling under the streetlights. "But trust me, in card effects, they're more all bark and no bite. You can get rid of them with a trap or spell, no problem. And have you ever tried building a deck and felt like the cards just didn't want to work together? That's what it's like with them, that's if you plan on making a deck with all three of the beasts. But separately, they can be bit of a problem."
I smirked, my earlier tension easing up a bit.
"You know, I never heard of them before now. Guess that says a lot about their 'power'. But this set of cards sounds familiar. I mean, you remember the Wicked Beasts right? I heard that they were evil versions of the God cards."
She took a moment, "Different set, equally dramatic name. In my world, the Egyptian God cards weren't that great when they first came out. But what's got me concerned is the Shadow Riders' leader. They've got a knack for... let's say, conversing with Duel Spirits. Like, intimately."
A cold chill passed over me, recalling the events with Jinzo.
"So, you're telling me this leader could just summon something like Jinzo whenever they feel like it?"
"Potentially," she nodded, her casual demeanor switching to one of seriousness. "Obviously not playing without tributing or anything, but summoning the spirit to cause some havoc."
My steps slowed as I let that sink in, and we walked in silence for a while.
The hushed sounds of the city around us were a stark contrast to the cacophony of thoughts in my mind.
Every now and then, Fujimoto would glance over, perhaps sensing my unease.
I could tell that she was grappling with the vastness of what lay ahead, just as I was.
We passed by a small park, its swings swaying gently in the wind, reminding me of simpler times.
The streetlights gave off a soft glow, casting long shadows that danced around with every step we took.
Fujimoto broke the silence.
"You know, Sora, despite everything, I believe in you guys."
Her words, though simple, resonated deeply with me.
My steps felt lighter, and my resolve strengthened.
"Yeah," I replied with a smile, "it's something my mentor would do."
Walking along the dimly lit street, Fujimoto's hair shimmered like cascading silver under the flickering lampposts.
She seemed deep in thought, and I was about to break the silence when she spoke up, her voice carrying a note of vulnerability I hadn't heard before.
"You know, I've seen a lot of duelists in my time, lots of shows, like 5D's, Zexal, Arc-V. But your level of commitment? Risking your life for others? I mean, other than Jaden and some of those protagonists, it's something else, Sora. Honestly, I don't know if I could ever do that."
I have no idea what she is talking about.
I looked down, rubbing the back of my neck.
Memories from the Shadow Duel flooded back – the sharp pain, the fear, and the agonizing aftermath.
"Honestly, I didn't want to at first," I admitted, my voice low. "After that duel, where I was so badly hurt, I thought... maybe I should just give it all up. The very sight of a duel disk made my stomach churn and I couldn't bear with holding some cards in my hands."
We passed a fountain, its water reflecting the soft moonlight.
"But running away wouldn't solve anything," I continued, "Someone has to stand up. Someone has to be the beacon in the dark, and ensure that others don't face the pain I did."
She looked at me, violet eyes wide in astonishment.
"You...you were the one who got hurt in the duel? The whispers around school made it sound like it was someone else."
Shaking my head, I shrugged, "It's no big deal now. I've made my choice. Even if my body feels like it's going to crumble, even if every bone aches, I'll keep dueling. I'll keep fighting."
"Why?" Fujimoto's voice was soft, almost a whisper. "Why push yourself so hard, especially if your body can't keep up?"
Stopping for a moment, I looked up at the night sky.
The stars were faint, but they shone with a gentle light.
"Koyo. My mentor. Every lesson he taught me, every duel we had... It was always about being there for others. To be their shield, their sword. He always said, 'Duel with purpose, with passion. Duel for those who can't.' I want to be the hero he always believed I could be. To show him that his teachings weren't in vain."
A soft sigh escaped Fujimoto's lips.
"That's... That's really noble of you, Sora. Koyo must have been someone special."
I smiled faintly, "Yeah, he is. And I'll do everything in my power to make him proud."
We continued walking side by side in companionable silence until I realized how my previous words may have sounded.
"Oh, wait a minute. Koyo isn't... well, he's not gone or anything. He's very much alive. Actually, I'm buying snacks for him since he just got back from his pro league tour and... he ate them all."
Fujimoto halted in her tracks, blinking up at me in surprise.
"Wait, when you say Koyo... do you mean Koyo Hibiki? The legendary Hero duelist in the pro leagues?"
I scratched my head, a bit sheepish.
How could I have forgotten to mention that?
I guess it's because I hang around that I forget that...
"Yeah, that's him. And the siblings I mentioned? Koyo and Midori. They're waiting at home for me."
A range of emotions flashed across Fujimoto's face, from shock to disbelief to what seemed like awe.
She was quiet for a little bit.
"I...I'm trying to piece this all together. It feels like the manga and anime storylines are getting mixed up. This isn't how I remembered things," she murmured, almost to herself.
I felt a pang of worry.
"Hey, are you okay?"
Before I could say anything else, Fujimoto suddenly perked up, her eyes shining with excitement.
"Hey, can I... Can I come over? Please?"
I hesitated, unsure of what to do.
It wasn't that I didn't trust Fujimoto, but I wasn't sure how Koyo and Midori would react, especially Midori.
Plus, inviting someone over at this hour?
Seeing my hesitation, Fujimoto's face fell, but she quickly rallied, resorting to tactics I hadn't expected.
She clung onto my arm, giving me those pleading eyes that were impossible to resist.
She looked like a little kid begging for candy.
For some reason, the deja vu that I was experiencing earlier came back once more.
Why am I feeling so... odd?
It's like I remember that same look a long time ago...
"Please? It would mean so much to me. I always wanted to meet them! I promise I'll be good," she wheedled. "Please, please, please?!"
I sighed, unable to muster the simple no to her.
"Alright, alright. But, not today! Tomorrow, got it?"
Her face broke into a radiant smile, her earlier worries momentarily forgotten.
"Yay! Thank you! This means a lot to me!"
As we started our walk towards my home, I couldn't help but wonder how this evening would unfold.
Would Koyo and Midori welcome her?
Oh, who am I kidding, Koyo would definitely welcome anyone.
Ms. Hibiki would let it slide too.
But Midori...
A shiver went down my spine as I thought of her greeting Fujimoto.
I don't know...
"Hehe! If I can't stay out of the story, I might as well embrace it~! I can't wait for tomorrow!" She sang, overjoyed with meeting what I assumed to be her childhood hero. "Let's go, let's go!"
Her cheery and bright behavior brought about the same deja vu from earlier.
Weird...
Pushing open the door to our apartment, the cozy scent of home wafted over me.
The warm ambiance of the apartment enveloped me as I stepped inside.
With the day's events, especially the moments with Fujimoto, swirling in my head, I briefly lost myself to those thoughts.
The memory of her request, wanting to meet Koyo tomorrow at the park, gave me mixed feelings.
But that reverie broke as soon as I entered.
"About time!" Koyo's voice boomed across the room, playfully snatching the bag of snacks from my grasp. "Thought I'd starve waiting for you! Come on!"
There in the dining room, illuminated by the soft glow of the overhead light, sat Ms. Hibiki and Midori.
Both were grinning in amusement, perhaps at my slightly frazzled appearance.
Midori's bright eyes sparkled with mischief, while Ms. Hibiki, ever the image of kindness, smiled warmly.
"Welcome back," Midori chirped, "You took your sweet time!"
"I'm sorry for the wait," I murmured, sliding into my usual seat at the table.
Despite the playful jabs and teasing, the warmth of the moment wasn't lost on me.
This... this was what a family felt like.
The laughter, the small nudges, the occasional bickering; it felt right.
I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for having met Koyo and being taken into this wonderful family.
But as I was about to dig into the feast before us, Midori's observant question caught me off guard. "Hey, where's your coat?"
My heart rate picked up, recalling how I'd wrapped it around Fujimoto earlier.
Thoughts of Fujimoto, shivering in the cold, and the spontaneous decision to lend her my coat played in my mind.
Flustered, I tried to muster up a plausible explanation, but words eluded me.
I hadn't thought of a proper explanation for its absence, and now I was cornered.
"Uh..." I stammered, trying to find the right words.
But before I could formulate a coherent sentence, Koyo interrupted with a chuckle, "Lost it, huh? It's fine, Kazzy. We'll buy a new one, K? It's been a while since we went clothes shopping anyway!"
The atmosphere lightened with laughter, but to me, it was a blessing in disguise.
Even though the moment passed and the topic shifted, a hint of unease lingered.
My little secret, my connection to Fujimoto, felt like it was teetering on the edge, waiting to be discovered.
I knew it wouldn't be long before I'd have to share it with them.
I knew it was only a matter of time before my connection with Fujimoto would come to light.
My little secret with her was balancing on the brink, and it felt like it wouldn't be long until everything would be laid bare in front of my family, especially if the siblings press me.
And that prospect?
It is both exhilarating and terrifying.
How in the world am I going to explain to that everything is more or less determined by some author in another world?
...
I hope time will give me an answer to this question...
Sunlight streamed into the room, casting a gentle warmth over everything.
This bed... feels familiar.
I blinked a few times, trying to familiarize myself with the surroundings.
The memories of last night's dinner came flooding back, reminding me that I had decided to spend the night in my old room at the Hibiki apartment.
Ah, that's right.
We had a small party with the four of us.
With Midori getting her job as a teacher in Slifer Red and being it's dean, and me rising to Obelisk Blue...
It was a fun time.
A faint hacking sound caught my attention. Concerned, I followed the noise to its source — the bathroom.
What the...?
That coughing...
It sounds like Koyo!
The coughing continued, sounding a bit distressed.
With my heart racing, I approached the door, hand poised to knock.
But before I could, the door slid open to reveal Koyo, looking a tad flustered.
"Morning, Kazzy," he greeted cheerfully, using the nickname he'd fondly coined for me.
His carefree demeanor contradicted the earlier sounds of distress.
"Didn't expect you to be up this early."
His coughing was still fresh in my mind.
"Are you okay? I heard you coughing," I remarked, trying not to sound too alarmed.
Koyo chuckled, waving off my concern.
"Oh, that? Swallowed some toothpaste by accident. I tried to cough it out, hehe."
The answer felt a bit too convenient, making me suspicious.
Yet, seeing Koyo's usual upbeat demeanor, I decided not to press the issue.
Koyo has a tendency to not let others know how well is feeling.
It's something causes all of us to worry since he does it unconsciously.
"What's got you up so early?" I asked, aiming to shift the conversation.
Koyo stretched and smiled.
"Well... I might like waking up in the early mornings now, Kazzy," Koyo began, looking out the window, "there's something about them. It's so calm, serene. And the sunrise? It's like the world's way of saying 'hello'. A way to show the world will continue to go round, no matter what happens."
His poetic musings brought a smile to my face.
I don't remember Koyo being a poet.
What brought this on?
Before I could respond, he quickly added, "Hey, if you're free, how about we hang out today?"
Remembering Fujimoto's request from last night, I nodded.
"Sounds good, but I've got a friend who's pretty eager to meet you."
Koyo raised an eyebrow, looking intrigued.
"Really? Well, that sounds neat. I'm looking forward to it."
As he started preparing for the day, he shot me a mischievous grin.
"Oh, and Kazzy, don't forget to bring your duel disk. I'm itching to see what you've got. You must have picked up a thing or two in the Academy, right?"
I couldn't help but roll my eyes at Koyo's never-ending love for dueling.
However, deep down, I knew that it would be yet another memorable day.
After all, dueling with Koyo always brought unexpected surprises.
The morning light illuminates the room, and my competitive spirit is already stirred by Koyo's duel proposition.
"Well, I've added a few tricks up my sleeve since our last duel," I remark, smirking slightly. "I've been itching for a rematch."
Koyo returns my grin with a smile of his own, but something's off.
There's a shadow lurking behind his eyes, dimming their usual sparkle.
It was very worrying to say the least.
What's he hiding?
Why's he masking his emotions with that uneasy smile?
"Uh, hey... I want you to meet someone today," Koyo says suddenly, breaking the short-lived silence. "You might've seen him in your classes."
Curious, I try to probe further.
"Who might that be?"
Koyo pauses, searching for the right words.
"Heh... Well, he was a lot like you back in the day. Passionate about dueling, but had some trouble before he got into dueling. He's got a fondness for HERO cards."
My mind instantly jumps to Jaden.
It has to be him.
But the Jaden I know is always brimming with energy, ever the enthusiastic and cheerful duelist.
What could possibly make him similar to the way I was back then?
Besides, it's too much of a coincidence anyway.
The thought is perplexing.
However, the morning waits for no one. We hustle through breakfast, the earlier conversation creating an undercurrent of tension.
With every bite, my mind races, trying to piece together the puzzle Koyo presented.
As we step out into the fresh morning air, I find myself filled with a mix of anticipation and concern.
The park awaits, as does this mysterious friend Koyo mentioned.
The sun casts long shadows on the ground as we approach the park.
The sight of Koyo's custom-made duel disk, glinting in the sunlight, brings back fond memories.
It's a testament to our combined creativity and engineering skills.
His insistence on gifting it to me, even though it was a birthday gift for him, had been a touching gesture.
I spot Fujimoto's familiar figure, waiting by the designated dueling area.
It's a bit jarring seeing her so animated and warm, so different from her usual composed demeanor.
As we approach, she smiles and gives a friendly wave in my direction.
I gestured for her to join us.
"Hey there," Koyo greets enthusiastically, always one for making new friends. "You must be Fujimoto! Name's Koyo Hibiki! It's great to finally meet you."
She gave him a polite bow and smile.
"Yes, it's a pleasure to meet you, Hibiki. I am a big fan of your duels."
"I'm glad you enjoy em'! Ah, Kazzy, she's a good one!" He nudged me as he turned his attention to the silver haired girl. "Thank you!
The abruptness of his gratitude confuses both Fujimoto and me.
"Why are you thanking her? For what?" I asked, baffled by his sudden gratitude.
Koyo gave his signature grin, "For being Kazzy's girlfriend, of course!"
The sudden declaration catches us both off guard.
My cheeks flush, and from the corner of my eye, I see Fujimoto's face turning a shade of pink as well.
"That's... um, we're not..." She stammerred, struggling to comprehend the sudden statement from the man.
Argh, Koyo and your dumb jokes!
I decided on trying to rectify the situation.
But before I can, Koyo reaches over, giving my head a playful noogie.
"I always knew you had it in you! Hahaha! Who would have thought a guy like you is such a womanizer! Koyo teases, his laughter filling the air. "So, how did you two meet? Was it between a duel? Ah, love at first sight, huh?"
Fujimoto was flustered with the claims and struggled to make out any words.
I sighed and elbowed my brother's gut.
"We're not dating," I exclaim, a little exasperated. "She's a friend, and a fellow duelist."
Koyo feigns a dramatic sigh.
"Ah, the same old Kazzy, always focused on 'getting a good job' and 'working on my resume' and not on romance. And here I was, hoping for some juicy stories!"
I frowned, a little peeved by his accurate but well deserved strikes.
"Yeah, well? You haven't changed a bit even after winning a bunch of tournaments in the pro leagues!" I retorted, to which Koyo laughed wholeheartedly.
Fujimoto, recovering from her initial surprise, chuckles.
"You two are really close."
Koyo beams, wrapping an arm around my shoulder.
"This guy? He's more than a friend. He's my little brother. Blood doesn't define family, after all. And believe me, when we first met he didn't want anything to do with me. But after a while, he grew attached to me like a puppy. Ain't that right, Kazzy?"
My cheeks burned with how Koyo was teasing me.
"Y-You didn't have to bring that up, you know..."
Fujimoto's violet eyes widened with the information she received.
But it mellowed not long after.
Huh, I wonder what's got her worked up there.
"Anyway..." Fujimoto cut in before looking up to the tall, lumbering man. "I am a big fan of your duels, Mr. Hibiki. Your Hero deck always makes way for unpredictable plays."
Koyo put his hands on hips and smiled brightly.
"Yup! My Heroes and I make a great team! It never gets old dueling with em'."
The two then began an impromptu interview, with Fujimoto asking him questions and Koyo answering them without any hesitation.
Witnessing this happening was an interesting experience to say the least.
I never really watched the interviews of him on television since it never appealed to me.
But seeing it here is different.
I feel proud and lucky that someone like Koyo is my mentor and older brother.
Not only that, it's rare to see her having this much fun asking him questions.
I feel... at peace looking at this.
"Okay, last question! I, um... don't know how put this into words but, um..." Fujimoto began stutter, the weight of the question now evident. "Do you... remember dueling against an American blonde woman?"
A... what?
I couldn't help raise a brow from the oddly specific question.
Koyo, however, didn't judge her and tapped his chin in thought.
"Hmm... No, I don't think so. I would have remembered dueling against foreign duelists, but a blonde woman isn't one of them."
Although subtle, I saw Fujimoto's expression harden for a bit before giving him a polite smile.
"I... see. Sorry about the weird question." She apologized.
Koyo shook his head.
"It's fine, it's fine! If it helps, I did duel against a lot of Americans in my matches. Some of em' duel with spirit, y'know?"
Fujimoto's question began to worry me.
Given how she knows about the future to an extent, does that question have to do with something important...?
There's a good chance it's important, right?
The sudden sound of Jaden's enthusiastic voice cuts through the gentle hum of the park.
I turn to find him sprinting towards us, his brown coat flapping behind him.
His outfit – the brown coat, the classic jeans, his ever-present energy – is unmistakable.
As he approaches, the puzzling realization dawns on me that Jaden might have been the person Koyo mentioned earlier.
"Jaden, what's he doing here?" I muttered.
"You know Jaden?" Koyo asked, an eyebrow raised in surprise.
"Of course I do," I replied, watching Jaden's approach, "We're friends from Duel Academy."
Jaden finally reaches us, panting slightly but with a characteristic grin on his face.
"Hey, guys! Sorry, I overslept," he says, giving Fujimoto a friendly wave.
She acknowledges him with a nod and wave of her own but then squints at our gathered group, sensing the heavy air of anticipation.
"Hmm, I think I'll just head home for the time being. It was nice meeting you Koyo Hibiki." she murmured, quickly excusing herself from the two of us waving her goodbye.
But right before she began to take her leave, she moved close to my ear.
"I'll need to talk to you after you're done here, okay?"
I gave her a curt nod, to which she walked away.
"So, Kazzy," Jaden starts, scratching the back of his head. "Funny seeing you here with Koyo, huh?"
"Yeah, Koyo invited us. But I had no idea you were involved," I reply, my tone more curious than accusatory.
So that's why I was able to warm up to Jaden quickly...
He also met Koyo...
Does that explain why he started chasing me in our second day of school?
Koyo chuckles, running a hand through his hair.
"Well, I wanted you two to meet for a while now. But back in the day, your schedules never seemed to align, with Kazzy working and all."
Jaden and I exchange a knowing look.
We had spent plenty of time together at Duel Academy, and many of those memories are cherished.
But there are also memories that weigh heavy on our hearts.
Koyo, sensing the shift in the mood, takes a deep breath.
"I think it's time I tell you both how everything fits together; how I met each of you and why I brought you guys here today." he says, his voice filled with an earnest gravity. "But only if you're both comfortable discussing it."
The two of us share another glance.
There's a silent understanding between Jaden and me – an acknowledgment of our shared past, and an agreement to confront whatever revelations Koyo might bring.
With a mutual nod, we signified our readiness to hear Koyo's story and perhaps the missing link between us.
AN: Sorry for the long delay on getting this chapter out, work still hasn't let up. I am also very happy that a lot of you guys are putting out comments. I will do my best to respond to you guys.
The next chapter will contain a duel, and the outcome of the duel will serve as a plot point and hope to further evolve Sora's playing style. I won't spoil on who he is dueling against, that's up for you guys to guess.
Also, I apologize if the chapter is a little off in terms of quality. I put an effort and have a writing session for this story, but given how busy I was, I only was able to come back and forth periodically.
Now, onto the reviews.
To clank2662, I understand wanting to have Sora duel against Jinzo, but I wished to showcase Alexis' growth as a duelist snd introduce her usage of Cyber Angels.
Also, I feel that although Jinzo is a Dark Machine Type, it would fit in with his control based deck, it isn't quite what I am aiming for, in terms of his playstyle. I hope I can illustrate what I mean in the next chapter.
To Phantom zero v2, I sent you a pm regarding your question. But to reiterate, no I didn't separate Midori into 2 characters. She is still one person. Could you put out where the confusion may arise?
To Darth Mando, hey thanks for stopping by! I am happy that you're enjoying the story so far! I was worried that my writing on making duels isn't that great but reading your comment is fulfilling.
Sora's relationship with the Light and Dark will be expanded on as the story progresses don't you worry!
As for using Chaos cards such as Chaos Emperor Dragon, I initially thought of using them but I opted for the more gimmicky control switch Metamorphosis strategy. But be on the look out for a Chaos card in the upcoming duel!
To motherfcking oak, nice name btw, and thank you for your kind words! I hoped to make Alexis, Bastion, and Zane into more human characters rather than them being dueling fanatics. I mean, they have to have some hobbies and odd traits, right? It's what makes us human.
And yes, I am aware Fujimoto is not very likeable at the moment, but that's my intention. I hope this chapter rectify some of those concerns.
As for Jasmine, I apologize for the misunderstanding there. I hope the beginning portion of the chapter addresses your criticism. I do plan on having her interact with Sora more though.
I have plans to introduce the two in the coming chapters, and I hope you will stick around to see what I am cooking. The interactions between them will be a little different compared to his interactions eith everyone else. Either way, thanks for the kind words and I hope you stay for the ride!
And that wraps up all the reviews. See you guys in the next one.