Johan had just been getting ready for the day when his vision suddenly blurred, the boy faltering before shaking his head a few times. The boy took a few moments to sit, his wavering strength slowly returning. Registering the familiar presences nearby, he opened his eyes to find Ruby and Jade by his side while Jack watched nearby. The rabbit's ears drooped 'Johan…'

''It's okay. It doesn't feel so bad this time.''

The spirits knew he was trying to reassure them and they hated the situation all the more for it. Ruby lowered her gaze, convinced that he shouldn't even try. They were the ones who should be helping him and yet there was nothing they could do.

Once she made that clear, Johan shook his head with a small smile ''It's the other way around, guys. I wouldn't have made it this far without all your support and I really don't think I'd be holding up this well if you weren't here, so that's definitely not true, okay?''

'…Well, it's still early. Why don't you get some rest?'

Nodding to Jack, he relaxed in the chair. He still had no idea how to deal with this but he truly appreciated his spirits' support. Johan knew very well that he likely couldn't have made it this far without their help.

His eyes soon found one of the pictures on the table, a reminder of the goal that drove him to come…


A blonde girl in the obelisk uniform approached Jaden, her brown eyes lit with amusement ''So you can actually make it early to class, I wondered…''

''Oh hey, Lex! Come on, it's not really that weird, right?''

Alexis Rhodes gave him an 'Are you really asking that?' look. ''Your track record speaks for itself.''

Emil quirked a brow ''You actually managed to get him here on time?''

''Actually, he woke up before me.'' Syrus nodded at the boy's clear surprise ''Yeah, I wasn't expecting it either. He seems really excited to go to class, that's definitely a first.''

''You heard about the Chancellor's new idea, huh?'' Alexis asked knowingly.

''Yeah, and it's awesome! I'm so psyched!''

Rolling her eyes, she turned to the curious onlookers ''Chancellor Sheppard decided to try a new approach today. We're going to be dueling with different archetypes and new decks to test our knowledge and adaptability.''

''Ah…'' Both shared glances, turning back to Jaden with the same thought in mind.

''Oh, so it's just his one-track mind at it again. Figures.'' Emil snorted.

Jaden looked back at him ''I'm right here, you know.''

''One. Track. Mind.''

Making a face, the brunet let his gaze roam around the class for a moment. If he was honest, there was another reason he wanted to make it here early.

He really had to talk to Johan again and soon. How could he not? All these years and he'd never seen anybody who could see spirits before, after all what happened, meeting someone who shared the same gift was worth its weight in gold.

But where…?

It was Winged Kuriboh who pointed the boy out as he entered, joining Chazz at their row. As much as he was raring to do this, it definitely wasn't the time. Especially with Crowler walking in moments later…


The practice duels took off with great success. A number of decks were prepared for use, they were simply to choose which ever deck they grabbed without peeking at the cards and challenge each other. It was a means to test their knowledge and adaptability, some like Bastion and Alexis fared well but others continued to fret and grumble as they lost.

''The Agent archetype, huh…'' Chazz examined his deck, vaguely remembering what he learned about this type back in prep school. He couldn't quite recall some of the cards but the archetype itself depended on manipulating life points. Well, time to test them out.

Others like Ciel and Emil found themselves with psychic monsters and Aromage cards respectively. Ciel giggled a bit as Emil struggled as to handling this turn ''What's wrong, floundering already?''

''Give me a break, these cards are completely new to me!''

''So are mine, genius. Now come on, get moving!''

Syrus was trying to figure out his own choice of decks, the Steel Swarms weren't like anything he'd ever dealt with before. Left with a different archetype himself, Johan took a few minutes to examine the cards comprising the Vylon deck.

It was just as he'd been finishing up that they registered the students talking in growing curiosity and excitement. Johan knew something was up when he noticed Citri gawking 'Is he trying to lose?'

The 'he' in question turned out to be Jaden, who was dueling Alexis. He had chosen a Spellbook deck and it couldn't be clearer that Alexis had the upper hand.

''For all we know, the idiot barely even read the cards before showing up.'' Chazz noted dryly.

''You think so? That's…'' Johan's doubts died a swift and painless death as Alexis handily dismantled Jaden's next move, revealing that she not only expected it, Jaden could've actually done much better if he'd played it earlier.

But even as they came to the realization, Jaden's frank admission that confirmed Chazz was right caught them completely off guard. Bastion and Alexis' shared exasperated glances as Chazz rolled his eyes.

''…well, ah, want to try testing our decks later?'' Johan wondered.

''Why not? It has to be better than this.''


While proud of his obelisk's performance, Crowler made a point to tell Jaden off for his clear carelessness. The teacher made it a point to remind everyone that these lessons were set up for a reason and they needed to take them seriously.

''Talk about a grinch…''

Johan didn't think that was quite fair ''He might mean you could've at least learned about your cards' effect, Jaden. You weren't likely to do well if you didn't even understand the deck.''

A pause ''…oh, yeah…''

Chazz suspected that this kind of attitude was just why the Chancellor set this class up ''You put up with this regularly, Truesdale?''

''Yeah, somehow, I've made it this far without wanting to rip my hair out.''

The bland statement elicited laughter from the listeners while Jaden grumbled, looking away. Those who knew of what Jaden had been getting up to, readily agreed that the response was quite understandable.


Fortunately, it hadn't taken the hero duelist long to find the person he was looking for with classes over.

''You wanted to talk? About what?'' Johan tilted his head.

''Yesterday! Your spirits, I've never seen anyone else who could…how long have you been able to do that? How many spirits do you know? Have you met anyone….''

Stifling a laugh, Johan waved his hands ''Slow down, Jaden. To try answering your questions, I've had the sight for as long as I can remember. Not sure how many I know, I've met plenty. And I have a close friend with the same gift, she gave me Kuraz's card.''

''Wow…and how'd you get Jack's Knight? I don't think I've ever heard of anybody who had that card besides Yugi.''

''I found it years ago.'' Johan sensed Jack appearing next to him, Jaden almost jumping ''We've been friends all this time. I wondered about that Winged Kuriboh I saw a few times before…'' His smile grew as the aforementioned spirit appeared, waving ''…hey there, looks like you're pretty good friends yourselves.''

''You bet; he's been a great partner ever since we met.''

The fairy beamed, a new voice speaking 'Now, now, aren't you going to introduce us?'

Johan's eyes widened, Jack arching an eye at the brunet's chuckle. The spirit of a blue anthropomorphic dolphin appeared ''Come on, Aquos, I was getting to that.''

'Well, since I'm already here, I'll handle this. Hello there! I am Neo-Spacian Aqua Dolphin, it's a pleasure to meet you.'

The two returned the greeting in kind, Jack unable to help his curiosity 'I've never heard of Neo-Spacians before.'

''That's because they're aliens.'' Jaden informed brightly.

Aquos tossed him a fondly exasperated look 'In essence, yes, we come from very far away. We actually happened upon this planet thanks to the realm of spirits a long time ago…'

Trailing off as Ruby and Flo appeared, the first jumping to Johan's shoulder while the other observed Aquos with interest 'Spirits from a different world? My, how fascinating.'

Giggling, Ruby's next words elicited an amused look from Johan as Flo continued asking questions which the bemused spirit answered. ''Oh, so that's what Flo's like with a new prospect. I know you guys described it but I wondered…''

'Ah, you're Crystal Beasts? Yes, I've heard of you.' Aquos' fascination was clear 'You were a legend as I understand, some of the spirits I know of weren't even sure you existed.'

What was that about? Jaden's eyes traveled between the two groups as Johan shared a glance with his spirits.

''…It's a long story.'' Johan put in ''But you're a pretty curious case yourself, how did you wind up meeting anyway?''

''Oh, that's easy. I just drew the cards and then they came.'' Jaden returned.

Flo seemed unimpressed 'No, you're going to have to explain that one.'

The boy made to respond, his stomach growling left him changing tack ''…Can we go get something to eat first?''


And so, they went to the card store, which also sold quite the impressive variety of sandwiches.

''Golden eggs?'' Johan echoed.

''Yup, it's the best one of the lot.'' The Slifer led him to the sandwich stand ''Apparently, the rooster only lays the egg once a week so it's super rare. Lots of us try to get it as a test of drawing skill.''

'Jaden, last I checked, roosters don't lay golden eggs.' Flo put in, confused.

''Hey, I know you're the brainiac but it happens!''

Ruby seemed more curious than anything, chirping what Jaden realized could be a question if the tone was any indication. The owl offered a translation 'She's asking if you ever managed to draw this sandwich.'

''Well…'' His expression already gave the answer ''…not yet but it'll happen! On that note, how about we try?''

''You mean…?''

''Yup! Let's try our luck now, I'm confident in my drawing skills. How about you?'' The hero duelist added brightly.

Frankly, Johan didn't see how this tested said skill at all. Jaden wasn't done though ''Come on, it'll be fun. Here, I'll go first!''

Grabbing a sandwich, he was soon eating in seconds. Silence reigned as his companions watched, his face slowly losing its pallor. Ruby and Winged Kuriboh were snickering, having already realized what happened.

So had Johan ''And how're those skills working out for you?''

''…Really, really badly…'' Fighting back the urge to spit his bite out, Jaden blanched ''…I think it's that liver and onion stuff Sy likes. How the heck does he eat this?!''

Looking at the amused Winged Kuriboh, Johan pointed out the obvious solution ''You realize you could've just asked your friend here for help, right?''

''That's boring. Come on, your turn!''

''I really don't know about this but suit yourself…'' Johan took a bite out of his own pick.

Jaden waited for a reaction ''…So you got a good one?''

''Well, the taste is unique if nothing else.'' He returned brightly. Jack and Flo chuckled as Jaden made a face.

''By unique, you mean weird, right?''

''You were the one who said you wanted to make things 'fun'.'' Pointedly ignoring the amused spirits nearby, Jaden wondered how he was still eating. ''Although by the looks of it, I think we know how your little contest worked out.''

Winged Kuriboh continued to laugh as his partner shuddered with another bite of his sandwich. Aquos shook his head 'I'd say something about pushing your luck but somehow I wonder if the point's going to sink in this time.'

Flo cleared his throat after a few minutes 'By the way, Jaden, regarding that odd tidbit you mentioned earlier…'

''Mm? Oh, yeah!'' The brunet nodded ''It's just like I told you. Kaiba Corp threw a card designing contest years ago and I wanted to try my luck. I didn't win but I didn't want to get rid of the cards either. I think it was like a year later, Aquos showed up in my room suddenly. He said something about my cards helping form a portal to our world and they just happened to find it.''

Johan's immediate impulse was to wonder how that was even possible, looking at the others. Jack only shook his head, equally taken aback. He'd certainly never heard of such a thing.

Both were distracted when Ruby spoke, her attention mostly on Jaden's spirits. Winged Kuriboh made a confused noise while Aquos half-smiled 'Kuriboh wouldn't know, Jaden was given his card on the day of the entrance exam. But yes, Johan is indeed the first we've met to share the gift. And…well, we've learned discretion with experience.'

No one missed Jaden's clear silence at this, the neo-spacian's tone spoke for itself. It went without saying that the aforementioned experience could not have been pleasant. seeing spirits was such a rare ability that it was often met with skepticism. People often have trouble believing what they couldn't see so it was no surprise that Jaden likely had a hard time due to the ability in the past.

Johan was no stranger to that either, Jack remembered what that was like. They'd come across quite a lot of people over the years and not many had been nice about it. Heck, even their friend Diana, Kuraz's previous partner admitted that she'd all but given up finding someone with the gift until she started working for Johan's family.

''…Come on. This was supposed to be fun, remember?'' Johan broke the silence ''We're both here now, let's focus on that.''

He perked up ''Yeah! Okay, so how about we check out the cards?''


It was a short while later that Syrus, Bastion, Chazz and Ciel arrived at the shop, finding the boys talking to Dorothy, the place's manager. The woman had been surprised to see Johan again, happily telling Jaden about their earlier encounter.

''Hey, did he look kinda green to anyone else?'' Ciel wondered.

''Yes, and I think that's why.'' Bastion glanced at the sandwich stand. ''It's safe to say he went and got carried away again.''

Syrus shared the sentiment ''Sorry, he really wants to draw the golden eggwich and nothing we say will convince him that this approach this isn't working.''

Johan shook his head ''It was fine-besides, maybe next time, we get to remind him of how he feels now.''

''You know, I really wouldn't have believed you were a noble if I hadn't seen it on the news.'' Ciel began conversationally ''I mean, here you are, just hanging out with us. You're that interested in the workshop and now you're even going along with Jaden's random whims.''

''Come on, we're people too…''

Both were distracted when Chazz spoke ''What's eating you?''

It took them a moment to realize that he was addressing the two Slifers staring at Johan in utter bafflement. Bastion arched an eye as Johan asked the question they both had in mind.

''You didn't know?''

''Weren't you the ones talking about how you recognized Johan before and all?'' Chazz clarified.

''That's different!'' Syrus cut in, Jaden nodding quickly. They hadn't expect Johan to be a noble...

Frankly, Bastion and Ciel thought this was an overreaction. Chazz made a face ''We already made it clear that we've known each other for years, dorks. You've heard how my family operates; you really think this could've worked with anyone?''

The two conceded that it was a good point. There were plenty of rumors about the Princetons due to their glowing rep and Chazz made his disdain for the talk quite clear. What some had noticed was that he never actually spoke up for his brothers either.

Chazz still remembered the time he got to know the family. It was after a chance encounter when he and Johan were applying to Duel Prep school…


Chazz clicked his tongue in annoyance as he stared at the pouring rain outside. Great, maybe he should've paid attention to the weather report after all. He'd seen a couple of the Princeton Corp employees carry umbrellas but he didn't think much of it…

''Chazz?''

The boy turned finding a curious Johan watching ''Oh, you're still here?''

''I was just heading out.'' Johan's gaze drifted out for a moment ''Looks like Sven's here…we could get you home if you want?''

''It's fine, besides, I don't exactly live here.'' He'd only come to the building because it was a convenient spot while his brothers were busy meeting with a potential ally. Chazz didn't even try calling either of them, he could just imagine the hassle Slade or Jagger would cause if he just asked for a ride out of the blue. They'd made it quite clear that their plans weren't to be interrupted. And the streets were far too crowded for him to find a cab to the hotel, he'd be stuck for ages. ''I'll just wait it out.''

''They're about to close up though.'' Johan pointed out, a hint of concern in his voice.

''Just leave it and go.'' Chazz closed his eyes as the boy left, only finding out that it wasn't that easy when the sound of footsteps reached his ears. ''I thought I told you…''

''Well, I heard and I think you're just being stubborn. Come on, is it really any better to stay like this?''

Grumbling to himself, Chazz knew he couldn't exactly argue and he didn't fancy getting stuck out here so…


Chazz couldn't help his shock as he took in the vast estate they were rapidly approaching, the beautiful garden becoming clearer as they neared the entrance. To say nothing of the mansion that lay beyond.

That was…damn, he didn't think even his home had anything on this place. And the way the driver treated Johan…he hadn't really thought much of it before but who was the boy, really? And more importantly…

''Why're you helping me?'' He couldn't help ask. They barely knew each other. Heck, even in the few encounters they've had, Chazz knew fully well that he hadn't given the boy reason to care. And if he was this well off, he'd hardly be angling for something from the Princeton Group.

''Why not? Do you always expect help to come with strings attached?''

''…That's usually how it goes for me.''

''Well then, let's change things up, shall we?'' Johan led him towards the mansion, opening the door.

The first to spot them was a somewhat stern looking blond man with sharp blue eyes, his gaze softening with his smile ''Welcome home, young master. I see we have a guest.'' He blinked ''…Actually, haven't I seen you somewhere…?''

''This is Chazz, remember that tournament you told me about?'' Johan supplied.

''Ah, yes! It's a pleasure, my name is Luthor. I have the honor of serving as the head butler here. By the way, we thought you were quite impressive.''

''Uh, thanks…'' More confused than anything, he let Luthor lead him to the living room after a maid arrived to tell Johan his mom had been asking about him.

It felt a bit awkward but the servants were quite welcoming. Chazz would've expected a fancy place like this to be cold and impersonal but on the contrary, it seemed quite lively and warm.

As he glanced outside, he couldn't help but think this may be a good thing after all. The rain clearly wasn't going to stop soon.

Johan arrived after a few minutes ''Everything all right?''

''Oh…yeah…I'm just confused.'' For more than one reason ''I really wouldn't have pegged you to be…well…'' Unsure how to put it, Chazz gestured at their surroundings.

A laugh ''I get that a lot. But…well, it is what it is.''

''…Why'd you participate in those tournaments then?'' Chazz spoke before he even realized it but he couldn't help his curiosity ''You didn't even seem to care one bit about winning, what're you really after?''

''Experience.'' Johan returned simply ''It just started out on pure chance and then I found that I learned a lot, things I wouldn't have experienced otherwise. And it just went on from there. I can't just stay behind my family name. I'm still figuring things out but I want to make my own path.''

That was actually worthy of respect. He was pushing himself out of his comfort zone and looking to learn all he could to grow. Chazz wished he had such strong motivation but…well, Slade and Jagger had been what pushed him to this path.

''Ah, there you are!'' The new voice brought their attention to the door just as a brunette woman with vivid blue eyes poked her head in, Johan approaching her in moments.

''That's a bit much, Mom…''

''Oh, nonsense!'' Maja waved a dismissive hand, revealing that she brought a trolley which Johan was pushing in. ''Sometimes you just had to go big or go home and since I had the time, you can be sure I'm going big!''

The trolley certainly emphasized that, it had an assortment of different foods, enough to fit a full course meal. Chazz blinked, thinking of her words. Did she make all that herself?

The woman gave him a warm greeting ''My name's Maja. I had quite a bit of free time today and I found myself in the mood to cook. I thought you boys might like to join me for a spell.''

''At least tell me you're taking a break after this?'' Johan put in.

Laughing, she patted his head ''Sure, sweetie. Now can I take that as a yes?''

Chazz's attempted protests died with her enthusiasm; she was clearly quite passionate about cooking. In moments, she'd managed to make him agree before he even realized it.

Although, if her son's expression was anything to go by, this clearly par for the course…

Things certainly grew livelier with her arrival but Chazz found that he didn't mind, drawn by the mother and son's warmth. He couldn't help but think that this day was looking up after all.


His introduction to the Andersen household, sudden as baffling as it had been, was still one of Chazz's fondest memories. They'd shown him nothing but kindness since day one and it meant more than he could ever describe.

It was just another reason why above all else, he really just wanted them to be okay…


It was only after he'd taken a walk as another attempt to explore the island that Johan appreciated how big it really was.

It had taken them sometime to get to the ruins the other day but apparently the Slifer dorms were in the opposite direction and perhaps just as far. But even when he heard vague descriptions about how old it was, Johan hadn't expected this.

The building itself wasn't bad per se, he was just having trouble wrapping his head around the sheer differences between the dorms. Sure, each dorm varied but this much?

Honestly, sometimes it felt like the more he learned about the academy, the more questions he had…

Given recent circumstances, his reservations remained. A part of him was glad he was here; it was nice to be able to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones. The teachers were nice and it felt like he could learn a lot here. Yet despite that his unease remained.

Sometimes he wondered if coming now was a good idea. Anything would've been better than to stay as he was back then, even taking one step forward was enough but still...his head felt like a mess.

But it was another matter he needed to handle. It was why he'd chosen to take action, something had to change. This was a long shot, he knew. But he needed answers. He couldn't stand to leave things this way.


As they were on their way to the lighthouse for the duel they agreed on, Chazz decided to breach a subject that had been on his mind for a while…

''You never did explain. About why you came when you did.''

''Oh…right, well…'' Johan considered his next words ''…you remember what it was like two months ago.''

As if he could ever forget.

Johan's parents, Maja and Stellan Andersen were involved with a project meant to devise a new medical treatment for a dangerous illness. They were last seen heading off, no one ever hearing from them even months later. Many search attempts had gone underway but none yielded any fruit, it was like they just vanished off the face of the earth.

Thus, Chazz had been among many who thought Johan wouldn't be coming to the academy. He and the rest of Johan's friends had a lot of trouble getting in touch with the boy, things being in utter chaos for a while. And it made sense, he had his hands full as heir and his responsibilities likely magnified even in this upset.

That did raise a question ''What about their partner? The guy who actually involved in this mess, I asked a lot about this but no one could give me a clear answer-where's he?''

Johan shook his head ''No one knows. By the time everyone realized what was happening, he was long gone into hiding. Uncle Sheppard's been trying to help find answers too but it never worked.''

''Hold on, what's he got to do with this? I get that he was their old friend but…''

''It's because of the partner, he was actually the academy's superintendent.''

''Say what?!'' He'd only heard talk here and there about the man who'd been among those responsible for founding the academy but he'd hardly ever seen him. To think this was the truth…

But if he'd already gone into hiding, that was even more suspicious. What did the bastard do?

''We're still looking into this but the academy is the only clue we haven't checked out.'' Well, that made sense. ''It sounds like he already knows the authorities are after him and he's definitely lost his position but there's a chance he's not done with this place. He's always kept such a close eye on the island that there might be something he's especially invested in.'' His fist clenched ''There's no telling how this is going to go but anything is better than just sitting back and waiting for an answer that might never come. If there's even a chance…I have to take it.''

''You mean we.'' The latter crossed his arms ''Like hell I'm staying back down now-if there's something here than you'll need help figuring it out. I've had plenty of experience seeing through bullshit after dealing with Slade and Jagger, so I like my odds better than yours.''

And there was no way he would even think of staying out of it-not after all the Andersens had done for him. They deserved better and Chazz was determined to help make sure it happened.

Johan almost smiled, the trust in his gaze speaking volumes ''…Thanks…''

''Come on, let's just go.'' The abrupt reaction was no surprise, Johan only following with amusement. The boy never did do well when it came to emotions.

''Well, what do we have here?''

Both started at the voice, turning just as a tall figure came out of the bushes. ''Hello there, boys. Nice day, isn't it? Good to finally meet you, Mr. Andersen. It's a shame I haven't had you for one of my classes yet, Ms. Yelan was quite complimentary of you earlier.''

The boy remembered talking to the history teacher about the way he visualized her stories. Despite his reservations that had been fun, they'd even lost track of time while trading stories. While she hadn't said it in so many words, he was getting the impression Yelan knew about duel spirits.

''Well, you've only got yourself to blame. How long did your chemicals knock you out for this time?'' Chazz drawled, the man laughing sheepishly in acknowledgement.

Johan was sure he heard that wrong ''Chazz-what…?''

''Oh, yeah-this is Banner, the head of Slifer and sciences teacher.''

The former found himself remembering an oddity that happened yesterday ''…wait, so you mentioned chemicals and…is that what loud bang I heard from the lab was?'' A nod ''Is it really that usual?''

Banner smiled good naturedly ''I'm afraid my curiosity does get the better of me at times. I've improved a lot but it's a work in progress, I've mostly got it figured out and before long I'll come up with better creations than ever.''

''The fact that you used to be worse really isn't helping your case, you know.''

The teacher deflated so fast that it was almost like popping a balloon. ''You don't have to say it…''

Jade appeared on Johan's shoulder 'Okay, what's this guy's deal? Is he really a teacher?'

''What're you doing here? Should we looking for a place to duck and cover?'' Chazz clarified.

Banner seemed to be mumbling about the comments being uncalled for, making Jade snort 'Who does he think he's kidding?'

''I was just taking another look at the ruins, somehow, even when I've seen them so much, they continue to fascinate me!''

''That weird place?'' Johan hadn't exactly intended to say it, still having no idea what happened when he first saw it. He'd never come across anything like it before that was for sure.

This immediately caught the teacher's attention ''Ah, you've seen it as well? Quite interesting, wouldn't you say? Just thinking of the mysteries they hold is exciting to me.''

''Ah…w-well…''

''Shouldn't you know more about that? You're the teacher.'' Chazz deadpanned.

''Fair point.'' He shrugged ''But one of the parts I enjoy about being here is the sheer history held by this island. There's actually so much even we teachers don't know about it. But that brings me to my next point, Mr. Andersen, what exactly stood out to you when you saw it?''

The boy opened his mouth and shut it, if Sapphire was right about him reacting to the place because of his spiritual aptitude…well, he had no idea how he could explain that.

'Maybe just the fact that they're ruins? How many schools are built near a place like that anyway?' Jade offered helpfully.

Silently thanking her, Johan relayed the rabbit's words. Banner seemed a bit disappointed but not surprised ''I suppose there is that. Sorry, I know I get carried away but I do enjoy getting others' perspectives.''

''Ah, well…I only did pass it that one time so…''

A chuckle ''True. Well, that's enough from me. I'll let you boys get back to your fun.''

Rolling his eyes, Chazz looked at his friend ''Come on.''

''That was…whoa…'' Johan managed, blinking a few times.

''Be glad you haven't seen him in class.''

The boy looked back, seeing Banner waving before heading off. ''I think I've seen that lighthouse on my first day.'' He looked around, wondering if it was visible from here.

''Yeah, it's not that far. Just keep up, I don't need you getting lost.''

''Somehow, I knew you'd bring that up…''


Once they stopped at the lighthouse, the two did a game of rock, paper, scissors to determined who would go first and it wound up being Johan. The boy opted to set a monster before passing his turn.

''All right then!'' Chazz scrutinized his card ''I play Trade-in to draw two cards after sending Rabidragon to the graveyard. And then I summon Lancer Lindwurm…'' A green dragon in silver armor appeared (A: 1800/ D: 1200) ''…now attack!''

Chazz: 3800

Johan: 4000

Barely paying attention to the loss of life points, Chazz's focus was on the defensive monster.

It turned out to be a green turtle with a blue shell that had emeralds jutting out of it (A: 600/ D: 2000).

His thoughts came to a screeching halt as he read the card's name on the hologram ''Wait, but that's…You were the one who got the deck this whole time?!''

Johan blinked, laughing weakly as the realization sank in. He'd almost forgotten there had been a fair bit of talk and rumors about someone finally getting the crystal beast deck given Pegasus' staunch refusal to sell them no matter the price. ''It completely slipped my mind with all that's going on…''

''…Okay, that's fair-but seriously how? And more importantly why?''

''I'm not sure you'd believe me…'' Shaking his head, Johan made to draw a card but paused ''…but that can wait, so if you're done…?''

''Oh, right-go ahead…'' He set a card, still a bit thrown.

''First, I send two cards from the top of my deck to play Iris Cove.'' Their surroundings changed into a cove lit up with a number of crystals of various shapes and forms ''And now I summon Crystal Beast Citrine Canine!''

Citri bounced into the field, his grin as bright as the namesake gem shining on his chest 'Oh, our first duel here, huh? Cool!' (A: 1600/D: 1100)

Chazz quirked a brow ''So there really is more than the original seven…''

'Where do people keep getting that idea anyway?' Citri droned, unimpressed.

Emerald chuckled 'We are a mystery to many out there.'

Johan began to smile ''Well, Iris Cove grants crystal beasts two hundred attack and defense points.'' His present monsters were surrounded by an aura that amplified their power (A: 1600-1800/ D: 900-1100) (A: 600-800/ D: 2000-2200) ''For now though, I'll just end my turn with this.'' A set card appeared before him. ''Oh, for the record, so long as Iris Cove is on the field, our spells and traps can't be targeted for destruction. Everything else is fair game though.''

''Right.'' This was promising to be interesting. So he was the first to face the legendary crystal beasts here, the prospect made Chazz grin ''Now let's see…first, I summon Delta Flyer!'' (A: 1500/ D: 1100) ''And now I'll use him to give Lancer Lindwurm and tune up to synchro summon Kuibelt, the blade dragon!''

The new dragon emerged with a mighty roar (A: 2500/ D: 1900)

''Now when he's summoned, I get to destroy one of your monsters, so say goodbye to Emerald Turtle!''

Johan's eyes widened as Kuibelt unleashed a blast that an explosion which blew Emerald away. But then it was Chazz's turn to be surprised as instead of simply going to the graveyard, the card seemed to shimmer before an emerald appeared next to Johan.

''When crystal beasts are destroyed, they can stay on the field as precious gems.'' His friend informed.

Huh, now that was intriguing. He wondered how such an effect would come into play…

First things first, though ''Well then, Kuibelt, attack Citrine!''

''Not so fast. I cast Glorious Arc!'' The quick play spell depicted a crystalline forest with a rainbow in the sky and a vague serpentine figure soaring high ''This gives Citri 1000 attack points!''

''What?!'' The boy stiffened, knowing it was too late with Kuibelt initiating the battle. Citri grinned as he tackled the dragon back, reducing it to pixels.

Chazz: 3700

Johan: 4000

Clicking his tongue, the dark-haired boy carried on ''My monster's still got one last effect, I can choose one of yours and seal their attack for your next turn.''

'Wha-hey!' Citri yelped as ethereal chains surrounded him, struggling to move. Catching Johan's concerned glance, he added 'I'm okay, it's just annoying!'

''And then I'll play Spark of the Light Dragon, sending two of my dragons to the grave to special summon Galaxy Eyes Photon Dragon!''

Johan looked on in growing curiosity at the powerful dragon of light towering over them. Well, Chazz had only just found this card himself and he wanted to see if he could make it fit with his deck but he found it satisfying that he could still surprise the other boy.

Taking his turn at Chazz's indication ''…Well, first off, I play Double Summon, so I get to call up Crystal Beast Pearl Swan and Crystal Beast Amber Mammoth…''

A beautiful white swan with pearls on her wings and head emerged, blue eyes bright (A: 1500-1700/ D: 1700-1900). Next to her was a violet mammoth with an amber on his head stepped up (A: 1700-1900/ D: 1600-1800). ''Pearl's effect lets me get one card back from the graveyard. Citri's gives him 200 attack points each turn until his score hits 3000.''

The puppy's grin grew with his power(A: 2000). Johan could summon a more powerful monster but he wasn't quite sure that was a good idea. Not only was he familiar enough with Chazz's style to know that simple power won't let him prevail, he didn't know enough about that new monster. ''I'll just set this to finish.''

'What?! But we…' Citri stared.

'Come on, Citri, wait a bit longer. Let's have faith in Johan.' Pearl put in, Amber nodding to her.

Little did Johan realize that was actually the correct choice. Chazz had a set up to make him pay had he attacked with reckless abandon.

Chazz drew a card but found that he couldn't use it now so ''Galaxy Eyes, attack!''

''And I use Amber Crystal Circle!'' The trap on Johan's left shone ''So by selecting Pearl, she gets my other monsters' original attack points!'' Pearl shone with a vivid aura…

''Not bad-but it's not enough!'' Chazz countered as both Galaxy Eyes and Pearl disappeared.

''What just…?''

''My dragon can banish both itself and the monster its targeting to the end of the turn.'' The dark-haired boy played another card ''And I'll throw in Dragon's Gunfire, dealing you 800 points of damage!''

A fireball came into being, Johan automatically holding up his duel disk as it struck.

Johan: 3200

Both monsters came back, the baffled Pearl blinking a few times as Amber gave Citri a look.

'…And clearly my big mouth strikes again.'

Biting back a smile at his friends' antics, Johan went on ''Well, since I played my trap with Amber Mammoth on the field, I get to draw one card.''

So, some of his cards had effects specific to certain monsters? The more he came to know, the more Chazz's curiosity grew ''I'll just set this monster and call it a turn.''

Johan surveyed his hand ''I'll start thing off with Take Flight!'' This was a spell depicting Sapphire shimmering with the colors of the rainbow ''So with this, I can return up to three cards on my field to the deck, in this case it'll have to be my set card and the field spell, then shuffling…'' He did just that. ''…and I draw two new cards. And since I have three crystal beasts on the field, I can special summon Crystal Beast Chrome Chameleon.'' A small green chameleon with crystal speckled spikes emerged (A: 700/ D: 500)

''And his effects boosts my monsters' attack points by 400. It also means you can't attack him when I have a crystal monster on the field. Citri gains 200 more attacks.'' (A: 400) Citri (A: 2200-2400) Amber (A: 2100) Pearl (A: 2000) ''Next up, Crystal Beast Topaz Tiger!''

A powerful white tiger leaped out, his eyes narrowing at their opponents (A: 1600-2000).

'Oh, this is looking better and better!' Citri chirped, Topaz chuckling at the enthusiasm while Pearl rolled her eyes.

''Now Topaz Tiger, attack Galaxy Eyes!''

Chazz's eyes narrowed suspiciously, barely acknowledging the tiger's effect giving him 400 more attack points. He knew perfectly well that this couldn't be all there was to it.

And he was soon proven right ''I send Crystal Pixie from my hand to the graveyard, and now Topaz gets half your monster's attack points for this battle.'' The image of small pixie with shimmering wings appeared behind Johan for a moment before she sent a burst of power that entered Topaz (A: 25001500=4000)

Chazz was far from done ''Then I play Lumenize! Your attack's cancelled and my dragon gets the tiger's points until my next turn.''

The trap shone brightly; almost blinding Topaz as Galaxy Eyes gave a mighty roar. But then…

His rival allowed himself a smile ''That's not all, I play Crystal Flash. So, by sending Emerald back to my hand, your dragon's going straight to the deck!''

Chazz's gaze flickered in alarm as Galaxy Eyes vanished out of the blue, Amber Mammoth destroying his set monster, a Wish Dragon. He reflexively held up his duel disk as Pearl's attack hit home. ''In that case, I activate a monster effect from my hand, Mahaama the Fairy Dragon! When I'm attacked with no monsters on my field, I can special summon him and use one of two effects, in this case, I choose to deal you the same damage I took!''

Chazz: 1700

Johan: 1200

'Those are quite the tactics.' Topaz couldn't help but think that it explained Johan's caution, it was easy to see that anyone who underestimated the boy would be in trouble. Fortunately, the same could be said for their duelist.

Chazz smirked ''Let's kick things up a notch. I summon Kidmodo Dragon.'' A small, pinkish dragon appeared (A: 300/ D: 200) ''Now to tune him and Mahaama to synchro summon Scrap Dragon!'' The beast of rusted iron appeared; eyes gleaming (A: 2800/ D: 2000) ''Now attack Citrine!''

But instead of the intended target, Scrap Dragon destroyed Amber Mammoth instead.

Johan: 500

''Huh, so the big guy's effect redirects attacks?'' Johan nodded at the accurate guess, Amber's crystal forming before him ''Well then, I play Dragon's Charge. Since my dragon destroyed a monster, I can draw a card. And if it's another dragon, I can special summon it.'' A pause ''Here's Spined Lindwurm!'' (A: 1900/ D: 1400)

But since he wasn't exactly able to get at any of the other beasts…''I end my turn with Scrap Dragon's effect, by destroying one of my cards, I get rid of one of yours and I choose Citrine!''

The dragon fired a pair of lasers, taking out the Lindwurm and Citri.

Johan knew that he had to turn things, fortunately he had what he needed ''All right, here's my trap, Kaleidoscopic Fusion!'' The card depicted a rainbow and many shining gems ''So by using Topaz and Amber, I get to fusion Crystal Beast Iolite Yeti!''

A towering white beast with iolite spheres on her arms and legs appeared (A: 2500-2900/ D: 1900-2300)

''They can even be used like that?'' Chazz supposed it made sense but he didn't see it coming. Gritting his teeth as the monster attacked, the boy knew there wasn't much he could do.

Chazz: 1600

''Iolite's effect activates, when she destroys a monster, you take 600 points of damage!'' A red aura surrounded Chazz to signify the loss. ''Now let's end this, Pearl!''

'Right!' Flapping her wings, she summoned a spiral of water that pushed Chazz back.

Chazz: 0

Johan: 500

Johan: Winner

Johan let out a breath, walking over ''That was fun, it could've gone either way.''

''Maybe…'' At least Chazz had a better of which cards he should keep for this deck ''…Although, that reminds me, you're still following the deal, right?''

Ah, that. For some time, Johan disliked the idea of playing cards that would destroy monsters, Chazz having taken it upon himself to disabuse him of the notion. ''Yeah, I didn't back out, I'm still using the cards. I just didn't draw them.''

Chazz looked a bit suspicious still but left it at that ''Fine, just need to make sure you don't start restraining yourself again, that was as stupid as it was annoying.''

''Well, I'm still getting used to this deck. Besides, I seem to remember that same restraint bringing you down to 500 points.''

While this would have annoyed Chazz before, he couldn't help smirking ''And who won in the end?''

''And who got beat next time?''

Both couldn't help chuckling after a moment, Chazz satisfied that he got as good as he gave. This was far better than being stuck with those annoying hangers on of his.

''You realize I'm still waiting for the explanation, right?''

''Like I don't know you by now?'' Johan tried to think, where should he even begin?


Cards:

Crystal Beast Citrine Canine (Att: Light, LV 4, A: 1600/ D: 900) This card gains 200 attack points per turn until reaching 3000. When this card is destroyed, you can place it in your spell and trap zone.

Crystal Beast Pearl Swan (Att: Water, LV 4, A: 1500/ D: 1700) When this card is summoned you can return a card from your graveyard to your hand. When this card is destroyed, you can place it in your spell and trap zone.

Crystal Beast Chrome Chameleon (Att: Light, LV 3, A: 700/ D: 500) If you have 3 or more crystal beasts on the field, you can special summon this card, it cannot be targeted for attacks with another crystal beast on the field. So long as it remains face up on your field, your crystal monsters gain 400 attack points. When this card is destroyed, you can place it in your spell and trap zone.

Crystal Beast Iolite Yeti (Att: Earth, LV 7, A: 2500/ D: 1900) Must be fusion summoned. If there's another crystal beast on the field, this card can protect crystal beasts from destruction by battle once per turn. If this card destroys a monster by battle, your opponent takes 600 points of damage. When this card is destroyed, you can place it in your spell and trap zone.

Kaleidoscopic Fusion (Trap): You can fusion summon one Crystal Beast fusion monster from the extra deck using monsters from the field and the spell and trap zone. You can use a crystal beast from the spell and trap zone if it matches the attribute of the fusion monster. If you do, you can't normal summon or set monsters this turn.

Well, let's stop here.

So, this story is basically me playing with the gx world sandbox. I'm trying to figure out how best to expand the crystal beasts but seriously the fact that there's only the seven monsters and Rainbow Dragon is totally lame. Anyway, the neo-spacians have been Jaden's only friends for years (thanks to Yubel, I've got plans for her too) and I'll be showing more of them soon. So yeah, while they're definitely not going to be ashamed of their spirit sight, experience taught Johan and Jaden to be careful regarding their gift. Johan doesn't actually have any special power but he befriended a lot of spirits over the years and he gained their blessing. Anyway, now you see why Johan was reluctant about coming here. The academy may or may not have any leads but it's the only clue he has at this point.

Chazz has long gotten sick of the obelisk snobs and while he'd never just outright admit it, he does like spending time with Johan. I'm giving him more than one deck and taking some inspiration from the manga. He'll still be getting the ojamas but his anime deck really confuses me, so I'm trying to align it in a way I can work with. It's the same reason why I changed some of the crystal beasts' card effects, not only are some of them awful, I can't even picture myself working them in otherwise

Anyway, how is the story so far? I'm completely new to writing yugioh stuff so I was looking forward to a challenge. I'd love to hear what you think.

Well, thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it. Till next time!