Chapter 2
As I slowly opened my eyes, the throbbing pain in my head greeted me, intensifying with each passing moment. To make matters worse, a cacophony of sounds filled the room, courtesy of my two mischievous younger siblings, Leo and Luna.
"Leo, Luna, get out of my room, and leave Stardust Dragon," I groaned, sitting up on my bed and shooting them a stern look. The twins, both sporting vibrant green hair, glanced at each other mischievously before making a hasty retreat. I couldn't help but shake my head at their antics.
However, what surprised me the most was the sight of Yusei, one of my brothers, sleeping peacefully next to my bed. It was an unexpected and puzzling sight, as I couldn't recall him being there before I passed out.
I sat there, stunned into silence for a moment, trying to process the events unfolding around me. Before I could fully gather my thoughts, I was abruptly snapped out of my daze as Stardust Dragon, my plush duel monster, smacked me square in the face. Reacting swiftly, instinct taking over, I leaped out of bed, determined to catch the mischievous twins before they could escape the room.
With my head still throbbing, I chased after Leo and Luna, determined to put an end to their antics and perhaps find some answers to the questions swirling in my mind. The chase led me all the way into the living room, where an unexpected gathering was taking place. Aziel, his mother, and my dad were sitting at the kitchen island engaged in conversation. Two other men accompanied them, one of whom I recognized as Bolt Tanner, a familiar face from the dueling circuit. The other man, bent with age, was a stranger to me.
"Dad, I thought I had told you not to let the twins into my room, especially when they're bound to fight over my Stardust Dragon plushie," I exclaimed, finally catching hold of the mischievous duo by their collars. Their eyes widened, realizing they were caught red-handed.
My attention turned to Aziel, his mother, and the two guests, curiosity brimming within me. It was clear that something significant was unfolding, and I couldn't help but wonder if it was in some way connected to the events that had transpired earlier.
"What's going on here?" I asked, my voice laced with a mix of concern and confusion. I awaited their response, eager to uncover the secrets that seemed to shroud this unexpected gathering.
"While, other than the fact that you should be in bed resting... Yusei was freed from the facility along with these two," my dad explained, motioning towards Leo and Luna. "Then, with Leo and your cousin Dexter, they ran into the Black Rose."
His words washed over me, mingling with the persistent pain in my head. I tried to absorb the information while pushing through the weariness that threatened to engulf me. My once sleek, black hair now clung to my forehead, disheveled and damp with sweat. The bruise on my face served as a constant reminder of the forceful blow that had left me unconscious. Each tiny movement I made sent a jolt of pain through my body, causing me to wince involuntarily.
Despite the discomfort, I held Leo and Luna tightly by their collars, determined to maintain control even in my weakened state. The grip tightened, my fingers trembling slightly, evidence of the lingering effects of the attack. Frustration mingled with determination, fueling the fire in my eyes. My spirit remained unbroken, refusing to succumb to the pain and weariness. That was before Aziel came up behind me, sensing my fatigue and taking the twin terrors from my grasp. His presence brought a wave of relief as he gently relieved me of the responsibility. Aziel's mother, following her son's lead, guided me to the couch, where I gratefully sank into its comforting embrace.
"Don't worry, my lovely Lady. I'll deal with these two. You just sit there and rest," Aziel reassured me, his voice filled with tenderness. His words provided solace amidst the chaos that had overtaken the living room. Planting a gentle kiss on my right cheek, he imbued me with a sense of calm. Aziel's mother maintained a firm yet gentle hold on my shoulders, offering me support and comfort in that moment of vulnerability.
I observed with a mix of admiration and gratitude as Aziel skillfully maneuvered Leo and Luna, leading them towards the dining room table where they could focus on their homework. It was a relief to witness someone capable stepping in to handle the mischievous twins, granting me a much-needed respite.
My attention then turned to my dad, who seemed on the verge of losing his temper. However, before he could unleash his frustration, Bolt Tanner, one of the guests, reached out and placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. Tanner, a former pro duelist who had experienced his own setbacks, possessed a wealth of wisdom and experience.
"It's time to let her live her life, Ryo. You can't always protect her," Tanner advised, his voice calm and measured. His words carried the weight of truth, aimed at helping my dad recognize the importance of granting me the freedom to navigate my own path. It was a gentle plea for him to understand that facing challenges and growing stronger through my own experiences was an essential part of my journey.
As their conversation unfolded, a newfound clarity settled within me. I contemplated Tanner's words, understanding the significance they held. Perhaps it was indeed time for my dad to acknowledge that I needed the space to forge my own destiny, to discover my own strengths and weaknesses, and to embrace the challenges that lay ahead. Empowered by this realization, I pushed the hands on my shoulders off, asserting my independence.
Taking a deep breath, I stood up, straightening my posture to assert my resolve. "Mr. Tanner is right, Dad. It's time you let go a little bit," I spoke with a firm yet calm tone, hoping to convey my earnest desire for autonomy.
But just as the words left my lips, an overwhelming dizziness took hold of me. The world around me seemed to tilt backward, disorienting my senses. My vision blurred, and swiftly, everything faded into darkness. The throbbing pain in my head intensified, pulsating with each beat of my heart, until it consumed my consciousness.
When I finally regained awareness, I found myself lying down, the soft presence of a caring presence nearby. Blinking my eyes open, I saw Aziel's mother watching over me, her gaze filled with concern and reassurance. Her presence provided a sense of comfort and safety, reminding me that I was in capable hands.
As I gradually regained my bearings, I mustered a weak smile of gratitude. It was evident that Aziel's mother had been keeping a vigilant watch over me, ensuring my well-being during my unconsciousness. In that moment, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for her nurturing presence and her willingness to care for me in my vulnerable state. I slowly sat up, feeling a slight lightheadedness as I put my hand to my forehead, attempting to steady the spinning sensation. Mrs. Nudel, still concerned for my well-being, placed a comforting hand on my shoulder, urging me to take it easy and remain in bed. However, my curiosity was piqued as a distinct smell of something burning reached my nostrils.
Ignoring Mrs. Nudel's plea, I couldn't resist the urge to investigate. With determination, I swung my legs over the edge of the bed and rose to my feet. My head throbbed in protest, but my desire to uncover the source of the burning scent overpowered the discomfort.
Taking cautious steps, I followed the scent, which led me towards the kitchen. As I approached, my eyes widened in surprise. There, amidst a cloud of smoke, I saw my dad and Yusei, engaged in what appeared to be a cooking mishap. Flames danced ominously on the stovetop, causing a small panic to rise within me.
"Who let my dad and Yusei into the kitchen?" I exclaimed, my voice laced with a mix of concern and amusement. It was a lighthearted remark, acknowledging my dad's lack of culinary skills.
Mrs. Nudel hurried behind me, her eyes widening at the scene before us. She moved swiftly, grabbing a nearby fire extinguisher and quickly dousing the flames, extinguishing the danger. The room filled with the scent of chemicals, temporarily replacing the burning aroma that had initially caught my attention.
As the chaos settled, I couldn't help but chuckle, grateful that the situation hadn't escalated further. It was yet another reminder of the unpredictable moments that often colored our lives, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth and affection for my slightly clumsy, but well-intentioned, father and Yusei.
However, my amusement quickly faded as I noticed Yusei dumping my favorite pot into the trash can. Disbelief washed over me, mingling with the dizziness that still plagued me. Leaning heavily on Mrs. Nudel's shoulder for support, I struggled to maintain my balance as everything seemed to spin, and darkness crept in at the edges of my vision.
"Yusei Fudo, you did not just throw away my favorite pot. That was a gift from Martha," I managed to utter, my voice carrying a mix of disbelief and frustration. The significance of the pot, its sentimental value, made the loss sting even more.
Mrs. Nudel, ever the pillar of support, steadied me as my head swam with a combination of emotions and physical discomfort. I clung to her shoulder, seeking stability amidst the swirling sensations overwhelming me. The room felt distant, the sounds muffled, as if I were being pulled into a hazy void.
Awareness of my surroundings wavered, and I could feel myself losing consciousness once again. The world faded to black, leaving me engulfed in a fog of uncertainty and vulnerability.
The next time I regained consciousness, it was to the sound of a repetitive beeping coming from a machine beside my head. The sterile environment and the unfamiliar surroundings indicated that my dad must have taken me to the hospital after I had passed out for the third time within a short period.
As my eyes adjusted to the brightness of the hospital room, I saw my dad sitting by my bedside, his face etched with worry and exhaustion. His presence brought a mix of relief and concern. It was evident that he had taken swift action to ensure my well-being, despite his own worries and fears.
A doctor entered the room, her expression calm yet attentive. She assessed my condition, checking the monitors and reviewing my medical history. The beeping of the machines seemed to match the rhythm of my racing heartbeat, amplifying the tension in the room.
"What happened?" I managed to ask, my voice weak and filled with uncertainty.
The doctor explained that my multiple episodes of losing consciousness were a cause for concern, and they were conducting tests to determine the underlying cause. She assured me that they would do their best to provide answers and devise a treatment plan to address my condition.
As I lay there in the hospital bed, surrounded by medical equipment and the palpable worry of my dad, a mix of emotions coursed through me—fear, confusion, but also a glimmer of hope that the doctors would uncover the source of my health issues and provide a path towards recovery. The tests all came back negative, which was more confusing. But when the doctor went back to the basics they found out that I had a concussion from the wrench to the back of my head.
"I recommend that you take it easy for the next few days," the doctor said before moving on to their next patient. I was sent home with some medication, and by the time I got home, Aziel had already cleaned up the mess that my dad and brother had made a few hours earlier. Aziel, wanting to prepare a simple and comforting dinner for me, set about gathering the ingredients and creating a warm and nourishing meal. They know that I appreciate wholesome flavors and a touch of creativity, so they aim to incorporate those elements into the dish.
I watch as Aziel sautés a medley of fresh vegetables in a skillet, filling the kitchen with vibrant colors and enticing aromas. They carefully select bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, creating a burst of color and texture in the dish. As the vegetables cook, they sprinkle them with aromatic herbs and a pinch of salt, enhancing their natural flavors.
While the vegetables sizzle, Aziel prepares a fluffy bed of quinoa to serve as the base for the dish. They cook the quinoa in a pot of simmering vegetable broth, infusing it with a subtle richness that will complement the vegetables perfectly. The quinoa absorbs the flavors of the broth, becoming tender and flavorful, ready to provide a hearty foundation for the meal.
Once the vegetables are cooked to perfection, Aziel carefully arranges them over the bed of quinoa, creating a vibrant and inviting plate. They add a final touch by drizzling a light dressing made of balsamic vinegar and olive oil over the dish, lending a tangy yet subtle sweetness that ties all the elements together.
With the dinner prepared, Aziel brings the plate to the table and places it in front of me with a warm smile. The colorful array of vegetables atop the fluffy quinoa is a sight to behold, exuding both simplicity and elegance.
I take the first bite, and the flavors dance on my palate. The combination of tender vegetables, nutty quinoa, and the delicate tang of the dressing creates a harmonious balance that delights my senses. Aziel's effort to create a simple yet satisfying dinner has paid off, and I savor each bite, feeling nourished and appreciated in every mouthful.
Together, we enjoy the dinner, savoring not only the flavors but also the warmth and care that Aziel has poured into the meal. It is a simple dinner, but it speaks volumes of their thoughtfulness and their desire to create a moment of comfort and connection for me. Dinner was a quiet affair before Aziel and his mother had to go home for the night. Afterward, Yusei and I curled up in my room, seeking solace as he recounted everything that had happened since I left the Satellite. Kalin had succumbed to greed, our family had scattered in different directions, Crow had found his own place with similar kids, and Jack had become bitter towards everyone. Yusei remained unchanged, a mechanical genius armed with a wrench and a laptop.
"…and if I don't participate in the Fortune Cup, our friends will pay the price," Yusei said, pulling a photo out of his pocket. I let out a sigh and reached into the hidden pocket of my ancient Sacred Wyvern, retrieving the invitation to participate in the Fortune Cup.
"No one knows that I'll be participating in the Fortune Cup. They think the Blind Saint will be competing," I explained, holding out the invitation for my brother. Inside, there was a picture of Yusei and Crow, accompanied by a written threat.
"If you don't duel, they pay the price," Yusei read aloud, his face losing color. His eyes then landed on the third picture: Martha.
"They've threatened Martha," Yusei uttered, his gaze shifting between me and the picture. I nodded, confirming his fear, but suddenly, a sharp pain radiated from the back of my head.
"Take it easy, Yu," Yusei said, attempting to shield my eyes. However, I pushed him away and hurriedly made my way to the bathroom adjoining my room, just managing to reach it before the urge to vomit overwhelmed me. The first night with a concussion was always the most difficult. One moment, I would feel relatively fine with only a mild headache, and the next, I would be wracked with nausea, tears streaming down my face as I pleaded with Yusei to alleviate the pain. Throughout the night, Yusei remained by my side, offering unwavering support. He even held back my long hair as I emptied my stomach.
By the time morning arrived, I was desperate for some much-needed rest. However, I was not prepared to face our family lawyer, doctor, and an unexpected acquaintance of my father's—a congressman, no less. While I could understand the presence of the first two, the presence of the congressman puzzled me.
"Ryo, how many times do I have to tell you that there is nothing I can do for a concussion? But I do hope that you plan to press charges against those ungrateful thugs who did this," remarked our family doctor, Taka Chinen, as he examined me. I made sure to conceal the fact that several of my old burn scars were inflamed from my dad, as I knew I would be confined to the house until everything settled down. Gently, I placed my glasses back onto the bridge of my nose. I then turned my attention to Yusei, who was diligently working on paperwork, likely to have his mark removed and to be officially adopted by my dad.
Our family lawyer, Ren Goto, was one of the best in the field. It took him just 24 hours to press charges against the group of boys who had attacked me with a wrench, as well as the group of students who had repeatedly vandalized my runner. Wanting to support my brother in any way possible, I moved to sit next to him at the table, determined to provide a distraction and be his cute little sister.
"You're not helping me, Yu," Yusei said, giving me a side-eye glare. Undeterred, I simply flashed him my biggest smile before grabbing his pen and starting to fill out the forms. Yusei might be a genius with a wrench, but when it came to writing, his skills were lacking. That's why he relied on a computer for most tasks. Granted, Martha had taught all of us how to write, but Yusei's handwriting had always been the worst.
"Riyuki, that's Yusei's paper... What is this at the top?" Mr. Goto said, attempting to take the pen from me but pausing when he noticed my brother's messy handwriting at the top of the page.
"Yusei has chicken scratch for handwriting. It's easier for everyone if I write everything down. Plus, Yusei has a better working memory than me right now," I explained, offering a sheepish smile. As I continued going through the paperwork, I discovered things about my brother that I had never known before. I knew about the incident with the roach in his ear, but I didn't realize that the roach had actually pierced his eardrum, resulting in hearing loss on that side of his head. It was a shocking revelation, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of empathy and admiration for Yusei's resilience in dealing with such challenges.
I smiled up at my brother before getting back to work. The adoption paperwork was relatively straightforward, but the process to remove my brother's mark took much longer. By the time it was finally completed, I was about ready to crash from exhaustion.
"Thank you, Riyuki, for your help. I should have some answers for you two by tonight. Also, Ms. Fudo, if you ever want to give up dueling to become a lawyer, I will have a job for you at my firm," Mr. Goto said, placing his hand on my shoulder. I pushed my glasses up to the top of my head and looked up at him as if he had grown a second head. Did he really forget that my dad was also a lawyer at the Hatake and Fudo Law firm?
"Ren, Riyuki is the heir to my law firm," my dad said, wrapping his arms around both me and Yusei. The rest of the day, we spent it as a family, watching movies and trying to teach my dad how Duel Monsters worked. It was a much-needed break from all the recent chaos, and I couldn't help but feel grateful for the love and support surrounding us.
Two days after everything happened, it was the start of the Fortune Cup. As the MC called out the names of the participants, there were cheers from the crowd, except for Yusei, who was marked. As the Blind Saint, I would have said something, but before I could, Greiger stepped in and spoke up. However, I couldn't stay silent.
"The Lord has made us equal in all things, for we are made in His image. This child may have been judged by your system of laws, but in the Lord's eyes, he is perfect," I spoke with conviction, and the crew and the crowd bowed their heads in silence, acknowledging the truth in my words.
"Both Greiger and the Blind Saint have spoken the truth," Mr. Goodwin declared, his voice carrying through the crowd, filled with hope and unity. "In our society, we are separated by more than belief. There are those who believe that those who live in New Domino are better than those of the Satellite. I hope that through this tournament, the people of the world will be able to see that life can be changed for the better in our two cities."
His words resonated deeply, igniting a sense of possibility and understanding among the spectators as the tournament commenced. It was a significant step towards breaking down the barriers that divided our society and fostering a greater sense of harmony.
The first duel featured Greiger facing Leo, who was disguised as his sister Luna. It ended with Greiger's victory, which triggered a fit of frustration from Leo. The subsequent duel was between Akiza and Sir Rasborn. To everyone's surprise, Akiza revealed herself to be the rumored Black Rose, possessing telepathic abilities that guided her to triumph.
Now, it was my turn to step into the spotlight as I prepared to face off against Shera, who was revealed to be none other than Hunter Pace. Although I held the title of the Blind Saint, my visor's thickness obscured any glimpse of my eyes, making it a name-only representation. Nonetheless, I felt a surge of anticipation as the Duel Runner's engine roared to life, filling my ears with its powerful sound.
The vibrations coursing through the vehicle sent a rush of excitement through my body as I firmly grasped the handles, ready to embark on this thrilling turbo duel. The track stretched out before me, a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes blending together into a mesmerizing blur. However, my instincts and honed reflexes became my guiding compass, allowing me to navigate the high-speed battlefield with precision.
The wind whipped against my face, but my unwavering focus remained steadfast. I relied on my acute hearing, listening for the distinct sound of Hunter's Duel Runner, using it as a beacon to determine his position and movements. Each twist and turn became a calculated maneuver, executed with the utmost precision.
Drawing my cards, I felt the texture and weight of each one in my hand. Swiftly, my fingers activated the Speed Spells, the controls becoming an extension of my body. The Duel Runner responded to my commands, accelerating and decelerating flawlessly as I weaved through the turbulent course.
Hunter's presence loomed large, his aggressive tactics reverberating through the thunderous sound of his Duel Runner. I remained attuned to the shifting energy patterns and the unmistakable sounds of his cards hitting the field. My mind processed this real-time information, strategizing and adapting with split-second decisions to counter his every move.
As the duel intensified, the speed and chaos melded into an exhilarating symphony. The cheers of the crowd mingled with the rush of the wind, fueling my determination to emerge victorious. Summoning my monsters, I felt their presence through the vibrations of the field, orchestrating their attacks with the precision of a master conductor.
Hunter's assaults were relentless, his monsters racing alongside us, determined to overpower me. But I refused to succumb to the pressure. Pushing my limits, I anticipated his every move, countering with calculated precision. The turbo duel became a testament to skill, strategy, and unwavering resolve, and I met each challenge head-on.
The crowd's excitement reached its zenith, their cheers and gasps echoing in my ears as the race approached its climax. With an unwavering surge of determination, I launched my final assault, my monsters colliding with Hunter's defenses in a magnificent display of power. The impact reverberated through the air, signaling the conclusion of our intense competition.
As the engines of our Duel Runners gradually quieted, I took a deep breath, basking in a mixture of exhilaration and satisfaction. The dust settled, and the referee's voice pronounced my victory. It was a moment of triumph, a testament to my skill, adaptability, and unwavering resolve.
Though I couldn't see the expressions on the faces of the spectators, I could sense their awe and respect. The turbo duel had pushed me to the limits of my abilities, showcasing the strength that resided within me. As the Blind Saint, I stood there, grateful for the opportunity to prove myself in the heat of battle, ready to embrace new challenges and continue my journey as a duelist. Next was Yusei vs. a duelist by the name of the Rabi. I found myself eagerly watching the turbo duel between Yusei and the Rabi unfold before my eyes. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as their Duel Runners roared to life, their engines filling the air with a symphony of power. I could feel the vibrations coursing through my body, mirroring the intensity of the duel that was about to take place.
The track stretched out before them, a twisting and turning path filled with obstacles and challenges. Yusei and the Rabi were both skilled duelists, their expertise evident in the way they maneuvered their Duel Runners with precision and grace. I marveled at their control, their movements synchronized with the ebb and flow of the turbo duel.
With each twist and turn, Yusei and the Rabi drew their cards, their hands moving swiftly and decisively. I watched as they activated their Speed Spells, their fingers dancing across the controls of their Duel Runners. The machines responded to their commands flawlessly, accelerating and decelerating with expert timing.
The clash of strategies and tactics filled the air, as Yusei and the Rabi engaged in a mental and physical battle. I could sense the determination in Yusei's eyes, his unwavering focus as he analyzed the field and planned his moves. The Rabi, on the other hand, exuded confidence, his every action calculated and deliberate.
The speed and precision with which they dueled was awe-inspiring. Yusei and the Rabi seemed to anticipate each other's moves, countering with split-second decisions. The roar of their Duel Runners echoed through the track, chasing each other, their monsters racing side by side.
The turbo duel became a breathtaking display of skill and strategy, as Yusei and the Rabi unleashed the power of their monsters. The crowd held their breath, their excitement palpable as they witnessed the clash of titans. I, too, was captivated by the intensity of the duel, my heart pounding in sync with the rhythm of the race.
Yusei's Stardust Dragon soared through the air, its majestic presence commanding attention. The Rabi's monsters fought back with equal ferocity, their attacks colliding in a dazzling display of light and power. It was a back-and-forth struggle, each duelist pushing themselves to the limit in pursuit of victory.
As the duel reached its climax, the crowd erupted in cheers and gasps. Yusei and the Rabbi's final moves held the weight of the entire duel, their monsters clashing with a force that reverberated through the air. The outcome hung in the balance, and it was impossible to tear my eyes away from the unfolding spectacle.
And then, as the dust settled, the referee's voice rang out, declaring Yusei the victor. The crowd erupted into thunderous applause, their admiration for both duelists filling the arena. Yusei stood there, a smile of triumph on his face, while the Rabi accepted defeat with grace and dignity.
As I watched Yusei and the Rabi, I couldn't help but feel a sense of inspiration. Their duel had showcased the incredible skill and determination it took to be a turbo duelist. It was a reminder of the endless possibilities and the boundless potential that lay within each of us. And as the echoes of their duel slowly faded away, I carried that inspiration with me, ready to face my own challenges and continue my journey as a duelist. That ended the first round or so I thought because Luna and some man by the name of the Professor were dueling in a loser bracket that was suddenly announced. I had a bad feeling about everything, so the first thing I did was go and find The Rabbi who I know was Aziel because of how they dueled.
"So you thought you could trick me, Rabbi," I said, my arms crossed tightly over my chest as I entered Aziel's garage. There he stood, wearing a black wig over his familiar black beanie, a disguise that had concealed his true identity.
"Just as you did, Blind Saint," Aziel retorted, his gaze scrutinizing me from head to toe. The tension between us was palpable, the rivalry and secrets we held weighing heavily in the air.
I reached up and pulled my cowl off, revealing my face to him. It was time to confront him directly.
"When did you put it together, Aziel?" I asked, my voice steady but tinged with curiosity. I wanted to know how long he had been aware of my own hidden persona.
Aziel's expression softened slightly, a flicker of understanding crossing his face. "I've had my suspicions for a while," he admitted, his voice carrying a hint of respect. "Your maneuvers, your style of play... they were reminiscent of the Blind Saint. It was only a matter of time before I connected the dots."
I nodded, acknowledging his astuteness. Our dual identities had been carefully crafted, shrouded in mystery and deception. But now that the truth was out, a new level of understanding and respect grew between us. I couldn't help but laugh beside Aziel, relieved that someone had finally picked up on my unique dueling style.
"So do you think the rumors about the singers and the Crimson Dragon are real?" I asked, finding a spot to sit down on the steps, feeling the weight of the first layer of heavy black clothes I had been wearing slowly dissipate.
Aziel joined me, taking a seat nearby. His expression turned thoughtful as he considered my question. "The rumors have been circulating for years, and there have been whispers of ancient prophecies and powers tied to the Crimson Dragon. I've seen things that defy explanation, but the truth remains elusive. Perhaps there's more to it than meets the eye."
I nodded, mulling over his words. The stories of the singers and the enigmatic Crimson Dragon had always intrigued me, but the line between myth and reality was blurred. As I pulled off my second layer of heavy black clothes, revealing a skin-tight midnight blue tank top and black leggings covered in paint and grease stains, Aziel couldn't help but comment.
"Wow, I always thought you wore a dress under that thing," Aziel said, chuckling as he looked me over from head to toe. I rolled my eyes, accustomed to his teasing, before unzipping the bottom half of my robes to show him that I was ready for a turbo duel.
I grinned at his reaction. "Looks can be deceiving, Aziel. The Blind Saint has a few tricks up her sleeve."
Aziel raised an eyebrow, a mix of amusement and curiosity dancing in his eyes. "I suppose it's fitting for the mysterious duelist to have a hidden style," he remarked. I couldn't help but roll my eyes playfully, knowing that he was always quick with a witty comment.
Without missing a beat, I grabbed Aziel's hand and pulled him towards my brother's garage. It was there that we would wait for him to return with Luna. The duel in the loser's bracket had ended in a tie, neither side emerging as the victor. However, amidst the unresolved outcome, something remarkable had occurred. Luna regained her memories of a time when she was three years old, and despite the skepticism that would arise from discussing the spirit world, I knew deep in my heart that her words held truth.
Day two of the Fortune cup started with an amazing duel from Yusei and Greiger with Yusei making it to quarter finals, next was commander Coda vs. Akiza, Akiza almost killed the man and I wouldn't blame her, the guy was stuck up. Finally it was time for my quarter finals match against an unknown duelist by the name of Sayer, a psychic duelist. The arena was ablaze with anticipation as I stood across from my opponent, Sayer, known for his psychic abilities and strategic prowess. The crowd's cheers and the hum of energy coursed through my veins, setting my heart racing. This was a duel that would test my skills and determination to their limits.
Sayer's eyes locked onto mine, his gaze intense and focused. I could sense the confidence emanating from him, a silent challenge that urged me to bring my best. As the referee signaled the start of the duel, I drew my first card, feeling the weight of this critical moment.
"My turn," I declared, my voice steady despite the nerves that threatened to betray me. With a swift motion, I played a Spell card, setting the stage for my strategy. The holographic projection materialized, revealing a powerful monster ready for battle.
Sayer's expression remained unfazed as he calmly drew his card. His eyes glinted with a hint of amusement, as if he had already anticipated my move. With a wave of his hand, he summoned his own monster, one that posed a formidable challenge to my strategy.
The duel unfolded with a dance of strategy and anticipation. Each move I made was met with a calculated counter from Sayer, as if he could read my mind. His psychic abilities were truly remarkable, and it became clear that this would be a battle of wits as much as it was a clash of monsters.
I could feel the sweat forming on my brow as the duel intensified. The crowd's cheers became a distant echo, my focus narrowing solely on Sayer and the cards in play. Every decision weighed heavily upon me, as I sought to outmaneuver my opponent and seize the advantage.
But Sayer was a formidable adversary. His knowledge of the game was vast, and his strategy seemed flawless. Yet, I refused to yield. With every setback, I adapted, searching for hidden opportunities and pushing the boundaries of my deck's capabilities.
As the duel reached its climax, both our life points teetered on the edge. The tension in the arena was palpable, each spectator holding their breath, captivated by the battle unfolding before them. My heart pounded in my chest, the adrenaline surging through my veins. I had come too far to falter now.
And then, in a final, decisive move, I unleashed my trump card. The monster emerged, its power overwhelming, and I could see a flicker of surprise in Sayer's eyes. With a resounding cry, I attacked, determined to secure victory.
The moment hung in the air, suspended in time, as the dust settled and the outcome became clear. The cheers erupted from the crowd, the thunderous roar of their approval washing over me. I had done it. Against all odds, I had emerged victorious against the formidable Sayer.
As I stood there, breathless and triumphant, a sense of exhilaration washed over me. This duel had tested my limits, pushing me to new heights of skill and resilience. And in this moment, I realized that I had not only defeated Sayer but also discovered a newfound strength within myself.
With a nod of respect, Sayer extended his hand in acknowledgment. Our duel may have been fierce, but it had forged a bond, a mutual understanding of the dedication and passion we shared for the game. As I shook his hand, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to face such a formidable opponent.
In that arena, surrounded by the echoes of victory, I knew that this duel would become etched in my memory forever—a testament to my growth, my determination, and the unyielding spirit of a duelist. My next battle would be with my brother. But before that, I needed to nourish myself, and now seemed like the perfect time to make up for the ruined picnic date we had the other day.
I had prepared a delightful meal, packed with all of Aziel's favorites. Loaded potato soup with extra cheese and homemade sweet potato bread filled the containers in my bag. The warm aroma wafted through the air, tempting my taste buds. I had even taken the initiative to find out what Aziel had already eaten, thanks to a text I had sent to his mother the night before. Pasta with cheese for dinner and a banana nut muffin for breakfast were his recent meals, and I wanted to complement his day with a special lunch.
I spotted Aziel among the others in the stands, engrossed in the match between Crimson Comet and a mysterious, unfamiliar duelist. With a smile on my face, I approached him, feeling a flutter of excitement in my heart.
"Hey, Love," I greeted him, my voice filled with warmth. "I bought lunch. Would you like to join me on this lovely day?" I tilted my head to the side, a playful expression on my face.
Before coming up to him, I had taken a moment to freshen up and change into a beautiful outfit that I knew Aziel would appreciate. A beautiful soft blue sundress with a floral pattern. The vibrant colors and soft fabric added an extra touch of charm to our encounter.
Aziel's eyes lit up as he turned towards me, momentarily distracted from the ongoing match. A soft smile tugged at the corners of his lips, and I could see the affection in his gaze.
"Absolutely, my Lovely Lady." he replied, his voice filled with genuine excitement. "I'd love to join you for lunch. You always know how to make the simplest moments special."
Together, we stepped away from the bustling arena, finding a quiet spot where we could enjoy our meal. The sun bathed us in its warm glow, creating a serene ambiance as we sat down. I unpacked the containers, revealing the aromatic soup and freshly baked bread.
As we savored each bite, our conversation flowed effortlessly. We laughed, shared stories, and reconnected on a deeper level. In that moment, the duel with my brother was temporarily forgotten, replaced by the joy of simply being together, nourishing both our bodies and our bond.
The world around us seemed to fade into the background as we focused on the present, relishing the flavors and the company. Time stood still, and the duel ahead no longer felt daunting. I felt at peace for the first time in days.