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Yu-gi-oh 5Ds: Rise of Darkness and Corruption (Athene/ImaginaryMuse & Razgriz)


Fate really was a cruel and fickle thing. Before today, Fayth had never seen her own defeat in any form or fashion, be it while she was awake or asleep. But last night, she had. Lo and behold, it'd come true. Under normal circumstances, she would have heeded advice Reiji and Fuyu would give her; ignore such things. They're only dreams. But ... that couldn't be the case. Not this time. Yuna was living proof that apparently, there were very supernatural things in these dimensions. That plus ... whatever she had on her shoulder. Her ... brand or whatever.

Not to say she wasn't proud of how she'd done ...but knowing she could have won if the Archfiend Heiress hadn't been boosted ... that pained her.

But that agony was definitely not nearly as bad as the second set of flames caressing her body. A weak yelp barely passed her lips as she fell forward, slumping to her stomach once again. This time, she stayed down .... didn't get up.

"Fayth?! FAYTH!!"

What should have been relief tried to take over her own pain and sorrow upon hearing the Warden would get her treated. But ... no. It wasn't enough. She couldn't get rid of her own disgust. Her hatred. Her rage ... she may not be the Fiend of Satellite, nor anywhere as infamous as her lover. But right now? She felt as furious as a demon. And if any further incentive had been needed ... it came as a hand finally left her ass and squeezed a breast.

"I told you to watch your fucking hands! You were warned .... "

"Hah! Cute! What do you think you can do, huh? HOLY SHIT!"

The answer was easy and, in truth, Yuna had been waiting for this. The moment the idiot rose his hand high enough, she lowered her head and bit. Hard. Worse off, she didn't simply let go. Oh no. She kept her grip ... tightened it even and spun herself around, effectively using the trapped guard to slam into his comrades. Only when they were all on the ground did she let go, spitting some of the blood that had fallen into her mouth. Yuna knew she was already pushing her luck but ... fuck it. Discretion didn't matter.

Even less so when her head turned and she sensed the exact person she had wanted to find; Yusei.

The same almost god-like speed Hotsuma saw would be seen again -- but now not only by him, but everyone nearby.

" ... The fuck?!"

"That's ... what in the hell?!"

"Is she really that fast?! That's impossible! Inhuman even!"

SHUT UP! YOU! HOW DARE YOU!

Her head shook from side to side as she focused on both Yusei's aura and the internal message.

I don't care about me. I was dead on arrival when I entered this shitty world. I ... I should have stayed as Yukio. Even after you found out. At least it'd only be you .... I don't care. Just get Fayth and the others out. I've earned my stay ... probably execution, really. Let's not lie to ourselves. Right now though? You're right; I don't wanna talk for a good few days to you again. I am livid, very much so. Just forget about me ... leave me even, if that'll get your precious Emperor to leave you be.

Her head throbbed as she used a good chunk of her powers to block him out. Ignoring anything further he may try to say. Yuna then looked frantically from side to side. The speed boost had given her a head start .. but only that. If she was going to get answers, they needed to be done quickly. And step one would come into play when she found ...

"Yusei! Quick! My cell, follow me there, please!"

She no doubt looked like a mess; blood on her lips, the side of her head, handcuffed, a bit pale from the blood loss, and still sobbing every now and again. If it wasn't obvious enough yet that Fayth had lost from the feeling in his gut, the way Yuna looked would likely confirm it.

Yuna would wait for Yusei to enter. But only that. Seconds after, she put her back against the bars and pulled them shut, securing the two inside.

"Forgive me for being hasty, but I'm on a timer. I need to know while I still have the chance ... what kind of man is Kiryu? Is he going to hurt Fayth? Or worse? Molest her or some shit? If he is .... "

Her fists squeezed tightly on the bars as she looked pleadingly up to Yusei.

"Then .... take over where I've failed. I'm not gonna be able to look after her; even though I promised to. Please .... keep helping her as much as you can, no matter what the answer you're about to tell me is."
 

"Well, that's what I get for trying to show mercy! You! Take over the Pit! I'm gonna make sure these idiots get that stupid bitch into lockdown!" Armstrong shouted, leading his few remaining guards after her; of course, there was no in hell they were catching her. Not moving as she was; the fuck was all this shit, Armstrong couldn't help wondering. First Yusei gets special treamtment, then they have these two come in here and actually make Duels interesting? Not to mention apparently actually lethal?

Hotsuma was unceremoniously escorted out of the arena, the shackles finally undone; it was clear that her words had an effect on him, especially with how his head was hanging.

"I don't care about me. I was dead on arrival when I entered this shitty world. I ... I should have stayed as Yukio. Even after you found out. At least it'd only be you .... I don't care. Just get Fayth and the others out."

" Just forget about me ... leave me even, if that'll get your precious Emperor to leave you be."

The guards even noticed this, one muttering "The fuck's wrong with him...He looks like he just got gutted or something." with the other replying "I dunno...But with how he acted during the duel, I'm glad he's back in his cage...Let's get the fuck out, man. Dude gives me the creeps, yeesh."

"Yuna...." he barely whispered, his teeth clenching as he punched the bars to his cell. "If there's one thing I'm not doing...It's leaving you behind. Even if I have to butcher every single guard, spill every drop of blood I possess, break every bone inside me...You're getting out too," What really stung was how similarly it sounded to him in Arcadia...Like he'd given up. But she couldn't give up, he wouldn't let her; even if she hated his guts, he wasn't about to let her rot in this hell.

No....No one would ever be stuck in here ever again.


Yusei had been almost to where he felt the presence of Fayth's sign; if it was even possible, the dread got worse with each step. Right up until he ran into Yuna; what the hell happened? She looked like someone pushed her into a brawl and she had to fight her way out.

"Damn it..." he growled; he followed the bloodied woman into her cell, before long being locked in her cell with her. "Whoa, whoa, slow down....Yuna, what the hell's going on? What's wrong with Fayth? What happened to you?! Why are you asking me this?" He was kind of lost...Even more so when she asked him to take over. To watch over her.

"Yuna...I don't know how Kiryu is now. But when he was arrested, he'd gotten violent." he started, taking a deep breath. "I'll try to keep it short. One day, I used to be in a group with him...A Duel Gang. We'd managed to unite the others, but then something changed...He nearly killed a guard, and I managed to block him off. But when I tried to tell the officers that I was the leader of the Gang...They still arrested him. And I know he blames me for it...But he only really went after people that wronged others or him personally. He didn't go after people that were unrelated when it came to revenge." Squeezing his fists, he then looked at her and added "But...I promise to keep an eye on her. On that you can depend."

However, their union would be short-lived, for Armstrong shouted "There she is! Get her out of that cell and throw her in the Supermax wing!" Two guards would restrain her arms through the bars, another getting it open before they wrestled her away...Others grabbing Yusei and hauling him out, Armstrong coming over to address him "You, boy...Not causing trouble I hope." Yusei looked past him, seeing Yuna being led away in cuffs; this day just went from bad to worse. But he would keep his promise to Yuna...Not matter what.

"No..." Yusei replied simply, the Warden smirking "Good...Then out to the yard with you or some shit. It's free period, so don't do anything like the Fiend or that mouthy bitch unless you want to lose it for a year!"



Hours later, Fayth was laid up on a bed in the hospital wing, allowed to rest. Her blindfold still on, IVs run into her arm to help her recover; no one could figure out how she sustained such massive damage during a Duel. Part of it they figured was due to the brutal nature of the restraints the Warden used...But even this was too much, and as such several of the doctors and nurses there would keep her overnight at the very least to make sure she received proper care and restoration.

And when it was time for her to receive her sentence of a year in isolation, she would be dutifully escorted - by the same polite guard that had taken her to see Fuyu - to her cell. "Be well, Miss Milner." he would say before turning sharply on his heel and walking off. Across the way, there would be a familiar face...But at the very least she couldn't be touched by him.

"Ouch...Those look painful." Kiryu would comment, smiling gently; there would still be hints of the malice she felt from his aura present but significantly reduced. "So tell me...Who was your opponent? Celeste Belrose, right...Bet the Warden picked a winner for you, being a Fortune Cup contender and all."
 

"She lost! And now she's in solitary ... with him. We talked a lot earlier this morning. She had a nightmare, a fucking premonition about losing. Fayth's terrified of him and, truthfully, I can't blame her. Something is wrong about him. I felt it yesterday." One hand temporarily let go and started to wave through the air ... but opted to answer him. If he was going to return that favor, it seemed right to give that gesture back. "Some of the guards thought they could be fresh with me. So when her duel ended, I ... retaliated, to put it kindly. And unless some miracle happens? I'll likely be killed when they arrive."

.... She felt torn. He was violent, yes. But he was supposed to have these feelings against Sector also; much like herself and Hotsuma.

Yet even Yusei was admitting that he didn't know how Kiryu was nowadays, and that - more than anything else - made her very on edge.

"Thank you ... that means a lot to hear from you."

There they were. The sounds of rushed footsteps. Her eyes closed as she expected the worst. A gun against her head and the trigger being pulled back. ... So when that didn't happen, she looked something in between confused but relieved. Despite having insisted to Hotsuma she didn't care about her own life, she did care about others. Fayth .. Hajime ... and even with his goddamn, literal fiend, Hotsuma himself. And now, even this Yusei kid; he was seeming like a decent guy also.

Her fists let go of the bars as she moved with the guards, rather than against like one would have assumed.

"No, he's fine. I had to speak with him myself though so ... I took precautions to ensure that. He's clean though. Thanks again, Yusei ... "

A familiar sense of fatigue started hitting Yuna ... really hard.

Fuck! Fuck, fuck, fuck! Not again!

But she forced herself to stay conscious, at least until she entered her new cell. It took almost no time for her head to find the cot and within seconds, Yuna was in the same mini-coma from using her powers too much. Whether it would truly be 'mini', or not, would be revealed over time.
.... How long had Fayth been out? She had no idea. It was definitely much more than five minutes though; something she was glad for. She felt sore. Refreshed ... but holy fuck did her body ache. At least her shoulder was fine, more so compared to everywhere else. Her hands rose as she first checked. An audible sigh passed her lips; good. The blindfold was still in place. There were, however, a few rips, no doubt from Beelze's flames.

Must have been during the second attack; it was weaker than the first.

As her body started registering her coming to, the first thing Fayth felt was cold. Holy fuck, where was she?! A freezer, if she didn't know better. Her arms quikly wrapped around herself, beginning to rub along her outfit.

... The duel though. Wasn't she supposed to be in solitary since she lost?

Still, she didn't hear ----

"Ouch...Those look painful."

Fayth felt her heart race. Oh god; it was definitely him. For not being able to put faces with names, voices replaced that. There was no mistaking it ... that was definitely Kiryu.

W-Wait! Calm down! He's being civil. Maybe ... your senses were over-reacting?

It was certainly a possibility. That was, by far, one of the worst things about being blind. The other senses tried to kick into overdrive, for a lack of better wording. Sometimes, they succeeded a bit too well with that. Fayth was no exception to this rule.

Even still, there was that familiar feeling of malice. Even a slightly sadistic nature.

... She'd at least try to be civil. If push really came to shove? Well ... she'd figure something out.

"Sosuke," she finally answered, "I was put against Sosuke. Celeste was my fake name. I ... had to lay low during that tournament. My real name's Fayth ... Fayth Milner. Kiryu, correct? You went against Yuna yesterday if I'm not much mistaken."
 

Fayth Milner...So that was why he'd heard Yusei called her Fayth; he figured it was because of the cross under her eye or something. "Sosuke, eh? The Fiend of Satellite himself? I heard tales of him...Supposed to be a real asshole. And judging by how you look, he wasn't afraid to hold back. That's kind of an asshole thing to do, ain't it? Especially since you're both getting shocked each time you lose life."

He didn't even bother to press her for details about why she had to lay low. "Even still...I heard some of the commotion from the television from the guard booth down the hall. You had quite a few fans, it seems; they were hoping you'd kick his ass." Giving a slight chuckle, he stopped there. If he wanted to get her to trust him, he didn't want to push her too hard.

"As for Yuna, I did go against...One tough cookie. I feel bad for anyone that has to face her; her deck's full of nasty surprises. And if she's with the Fiend, it's no wonder, eh?" he laughed, adding "But hey...I know I might not seem like the friendliest guy in the world. Truth be told, I only landed here because I wanted to stop Sector from arresting people in the Satellite for dueling. I mean, that is a bit ridiculous, isn't it? Thrown in jail for playing a game? Do they really have nothing better to do?"

Letting out a sigh, he then said "Oh well...Guess we're stuck here for a while. But....If you do anything, Fayth, just let me know and I'll see what I can do alright? Anyway...You're probably exhausted, so I'll stop bothering you."
 

"He's ... complicated. I can't really explain it, and frankly, even if I tried? I wouldn't blame you if you didn't believe me. I barely understood it myself. He was a bit of a jerk ... but at the same time .... he was kinda forced to bee one. It's the easiest way to put it. Even during the last attack ... there was a brief moment I felt regret and remorse from him." Fayth weakly grinned, knowing the words probably didn't make much sense. Buuuut that was why she warned him in advance. "It's ... the best way I can put the explanation intto words. You're right though; he definitely didn't hold back."

That last sentence would be mumbled, in a somewhat bitter tone. Fayth wasn't exactly too happy on having been hit directly - twice at that rate - with a 6,000 attack Beelze.

A small smile crossed her face as she heard Kiryu speak about Yuna. "Mhm. She definitely is tough. I envy her, to be a bit honest. I should have --- well, I guess that doesn't matter anymore."

Given the feelings hadn't yet faded, Fayth decided she'd keep being civil, bu also careful on what she did reveal. The unfortunate fact was everyone else had heard her true name; so that was redundant to keep hidden anymore. Everything else - regarding the night training, where she came from, almost anything linked with Yuna and Yusei - those were things Fayth intended to keep concealed.

"Oh wow," her head shook from side to side in disbelief. "If it weren't for the fact I'm here for something as dumb, I wouldn't believe you." Her eyebrows furrowed, hinting her eyes would have narrowed if they could properly. "Jack Atlas set me up. I don't get why exactly. Feels like a bullshit attempt to keep me out of the Fortune Cup."

Of course, she knew that wasn't actually the case. But it was a decent enough half-lie. Plus, she truly didn't know the entire reason for this wrongful arrest. That really was something Fayth was confused about to this day.

"N-No. You're not bothering me, per se. I'm ... not as tired. I passed out when my life hit zero but .... I probably should at least try for rest."

If there was a cot, Fayth didn't immediately feel it. Instead, she placed herself against the wall, shivering slightly. Not only from the temperature, but that was definitely part of what caused such a reaction from her. Her head tilted back as she closed her eyelids. Likely because she was willingly getting sleep, she actually fell asleep much faster than even the blind Signer expected.
By the time lunch rolled around the next day, Hotsuma would notice Yuna was gone. While it was fair to assume she was still angry with him, there was another set of alarms that hinted something was off. Even her thoughts - subconscious or otherwise - couldn't be sensed.

Fayth and Kiryu, meanwhile, would have a tray slid over to each of them. That was one of the few blessings. With how brutal Sector was, Fayth wouldn't have been too amazed if they tried to avoid going to solitary for any reason. Apparently, even they had some obligations. It was another of those 'something is better than nothing' scenarios. Her mind raced ... what could she even bring up or say while keeping to her discreet mindset?

... Finally, there was one thing. It was something that had bothered her. And since he'd faced Yuna .... there was a chance Kiryu could answer this inquiry.

"Kiryu? When you fought Yuna ..... did .... the damage feel ... a bit too real? That's the main reason I'm so bandaged up. It's been bothering me, and it kinda goes hand in hand with what I was trying to say about Sosuke seeming like a forced jerk yesterday. I guess in layman's terms ... it felt like he had a split personality. The problem with that, though, is even if it were true, it doesn't explain how he made everything feel the way it did."
 

Kiryu just watched as Fayth just drifted off; she seemed cautious, wary of him. Good instincts; but that was alright. He had plenty of time before he needed to put his plan into any real action. Besides...Best he get her to trust him as much as possible, if he had any intention.

He then decided to try and get some sleep himself, knowing that tomorrow would be extremely boring.


Hotsuma was led out of his cell that morning, refusing to step out for head count; this earned him a severe beating from the guards, and wanted as he much to punch the crap out of them...He didn't. And when they saw he was barey fighting, it seemed relatively quickly, themselves noting how he seemed to get really boring all of a sudden.

And when meal time was here, Hotsuma figured that Yuna was still pissed at him; he couldn't blame her, not with what happened yesterday. Even if it wasn't his fault entirely, he should have tried harder to resist. However...The dread in his gut just stopped his appetite altogether; even Toju wasn't around, having been put on laundry duty for the day. Not that it mattered; he didn't really feel like talking to anyone anyway.

However, when he picked up on the second set of alarms, the gnawing in his gut grew even worse; something was wrong. As a guard passed by, Hotsuma said "Hey...What the hell's going on? What's with the noise?" The guard gave an annoyed 'Tch' and replied, "Some inmate's probably fucking trying to kill themselves in Supermax. Good riddance I say." Hotsuma wasn't complacent with that; Yuna might have not bee suicidal but now he was sure something was wrong with her. "Take me over there...A friend of mine's in trouble." he muttered, the guard shaking off Hotsuma's hand and stating "Sorry, no low-level dregs allowed. Exclusive members only."

Hotsuma had about enough of this, and stood up violently and grabbed the guard's shoulders, "You're going to let me over there, even if I have to shatter your skull! She's in trouble!" He knew it, and he was going to do everything he had to make sure Yuna was alright. A small but very noticeable red flash passed through the guard's eyes, raising his hands and saying "Alright...Alright. I'll take you over there; the Warden won't have any trouble with this."

Now it was Hotsuma's turn to act surprised; the fuck, the guard just changed his mind? Did this guy break his brain? "R-really?" he asked, the guard nodding "It's no trouble...This way, let's hurry." Hotsuma just watched the guard walk off for a moment, confused as to what happened, but shaking his head he followed the guard. And when they were at the cell in question, Hotsuma looked in and saw his lover...He could feel she wasn't fully conscious, but there was more to it. He just knew there was.

"Yuna....Yuna?" Hotsuma shouted, turning to the guard and demanding "Open the cell! Something's wrong!" Again, the guard complied without question; once her door was open, the young man rushed in and felt her skin. Cold...Clammy, and placing his head against her chest, he could barely hear her heart beat. He would then gently open her eyelids, and see that not only where they back to their normal hazel color, they were also glassed over. "Shit, call the medics, you stupid fuck! Yuna, Yuna! Hang on damn it!" he wailed, the guard almost instantly getting on the radio and putting out a 'Code Black' for inmate YN5082-A.

"It's her fault, really...This time, anyway. She didn't learn the first time this happened..." the Emperor chided in, Hotsuma snarling mentally. "Heh...You have no idea, do you? Her contract gives her power...But like all, they come with a price...." he then added, Hotsuma growling "Either shut up or help me save her!" The Emperor sighed, "Fine...But only because I don't want you to give up over losing her. I don't plan for us to spend all of our time here...Place your hand over her chest; I can transmit some of your energy to her to help at least keep her stable for a time." Hotsuma did as such; and moments later, he felt a bit winded as a pulse of light emitted from his palm, some of his lifeforce running through Yuna's body. Forced out by the Emperor's own will and into hers; whether she would take it well or not, he obviously did not know, but that was out of their hands now.


Kiryu and Fayth, meanwhile, would get to enjoy their lovely meals....And by lovely, it was clearly not much better than dog food. However, he would pause about halfway through when she asked her question.

And what a question it was...Holy shit, did the Fiend have the capability that Yuna did? If she asked about it, then he had to have. There was no other explanation.

"You know, I honestly thought I was crazy...When I attacked her with Hell Twin Police, she used Magic Cylinder to redirect the strike. And I swear it felt like she had literally pulled out a gun and shot me herself. If the Fiend did that to you...What the heck? Seems we both got put against some rather unfair opponents; though I have to say, I fared better than you did against that Mister E guy. At least my match was honest, much as I would like to think my disk got tampered with."

He just laughed, "Kind of sucks that someone has to cheat in a card game; I mean, really, what did you do to get him mad? Did he ask you out and you told his weird ass no or something?" She would hear in his voice that he was largely joking, trying to use humor to help keep their conversation light-hearted.
 

The slow rising and falling of her chest continued. For now, it was probably a blessing. However, should history repeat ... that wouldn't be the case forever. While Hotsuma started looking Yuna over, she remained deathly still. Just like before, none of her thoughts were being heard. Somehow, this all seemed worse than when it first happened back in Arcadia. In all honesty? It was likely a fair assumption that was exactly the case. There was a relatively simple reason why; it just was a matter if one could figure the logic out or not.

When Hotsuma began complying with the Emperor's advice, the true test began.

Suffice to say, it did not work. If anything, the energy was making her heart threaten to cease altogether. For the briefest of moments, it would seem as if she started to accept the energy. Soon, though, her body rejected it once more.

If Hotsuma had thought her pulse was weak before ... now it was even worse.

This, too, had its own reason for why things were happening. Concept wise, it was easy enough to figure out. Whether either Hotsuma or the Emperor could understand it quick enough would remain a mystery for the time being.
"I'm .... I'm pretty sure he did, yes."

Faytth turned her had, allowing Kiryu to see the burned marks on her blindfold.

"How do you explain this? And the flames from his Beelze felt far too warm to just be the technical part of the duel disk." Her teeth briefly latched onto her lower lip. So .... Yuna did have something weird about herself too? It definitely hurt Fayth a bit. But not enough to lash out at her friend. As someone who had a shit ton of secrets - most of which none would even begin to believe - she could understand this was probably one of them.

" ... I kinda figured as much. Yuna hinted she has .... some weird powers. Not those but .... enough to imply she's ... much more than what meets the eye."

... So, assuming this theory was right, her and Hotsuma likely acquired ... whatever these abilities were, at or around the same time. Unless ... were they born with them? Highly unlikely, but at this rate, Fayth was finding more and more nothing was impossible nowadays.

Oh god ... he really did watch that tournament ...

Fayth's face quickly flushed, her head moving from side to side at his jests. "No, no. I don't really fret about dating much. I'm only seventeen."

... Well, too late for take backs. Then again, would that really be the worst thing to reveal? Even Yuna seemed to be her age. From what she'd heard, a good majority of the people in this dimension were in their teens to early 20s.

Hopefully that wasn't too dumb of a thing to give away ... she prayed, going back over that tournament before shaking her head again. "No. When he was against Jack ... he went on about ... trying to purge the light? I assume it has to do with my deck. I use angels so .... it's the only connection I can make. But ... it sounded much more complicated than simply dealing with my deck. Borderline personal. It was really weird and creepy." The more she thought on it, definitely much more of the latter. How exactly had he know that she possessed a light/fairy deck? that was too convenient, even for Fayth herself.

A soft sigh passed her lips as she suddenly felt nervous. Forget her feelings about this dimension being the worst. There was legitimately something very wrong with it. True, even in the Pendulum Dimension, some individuals had rather fucked up abilities, such as being able to card people. But this? This was taking things to a whole new level.

"Sorry. It didn't dawn on me until now that Mr. E is one of those topics I'd rather not discuss."

Emphasized and duly noted by the fact Kiryu would hear Fayth actually curse in front of him.

"He's just one of those bastards I never wanna run into ever again, plain and simple."
 

When Hotsuma felt her heart rate plummet even further, he was naturally both extremely panicked and furious. "The fuck, you said this would stabilize her!" he shouted at his contracted spirit, who simply replied "I said it *should* stabilize...Never guaranteed it would work, whelp....Better hope that medical aid comes soon."

But the real reason the Emperor was being so dismissive was that he felt a faint resonance...One that could very easily spell trouble if provoked. And while he was essentially fearless, he knew better than to discount the severity of a potential threat. And as it was, he was all too vulnerable. Especially with this useless flesh as his vessel.

Hotsuma was beside himself; however, at the very least, he would have one prayer answered, as the medical team would finally show up...Along with several Sector officers who immediately laid eyes on the Fiend. "The fuck, how did you get in here?!" one guard shouted, two more rushing in and pulling him off; Hotsuma tried to resist, to be near Yuna, calling out her name over and over, begging her not to die...But a crack over the head by a billy club or several ended that little charade, blood leaking from his temple as he collapsed limply...His vision swimming as he could only watch his lover be carted off, the nurses' voices garbled and incoherent before feeling himself be dragged off...Likely back to his cell to have this incident investigated by the Warden.


Kiryu raised an eyebrow as she explained that she got those marks from Beelze; so, that was who stole the Beelze shipment. "Heh...Figures the Fiend would have a card like that. Should have heard the Warden; he was outright pissed when that heist happened. Those were some of his best guys guarding it too, his elite squad." Kiryu said, having listened to the Warden go on and on...They were on total lockdown for two weeks after that happened, and he interrogated everyone, thinking that someone on the inside had given the information out. Even his own men weren't safe at that time, it was crazy.

Seeing her cheeks flush, he just laughed, "Nah, I'm only joking; didn't exactly strike me as your type. Kind of in the same boat as you with dating...Regardless of me being in prison, though I'm nineteen, if that helps." Shaking his head, he then continued, "I don't even know what his deal was...The hell does 'the light' even mean? Good thing Atlas knocked his ass out after that...Was pretty cool of him to give you second place, though. Shows the guy, douche that he is, can be decent when he wants to."

Laughing when she commented about Mister E being someone she didn't want to see again, he just said "Well...Can't say I blame you, so consider that idiot dropped. But...If I can ask, how in the world did you get in here? You don't strike me as someone who seeks out trouble...But then again, wherever Sector reaches, misfortune typically follows. Even if you had nothing to do with the situation at all. And...Some of us are just cursed to have trouble find us."


Hotsuma would soon be in the room with Yuna, his head bandaged from the blows he received while trying to fight off Sector guards; and honestly, seeing her lying here again was hard. Was this his curse? To have his world torn down piece by piece? To drive all everything that he held dear? They say heavy is the head that wears the crown...But he wasn't a ruler, nor did he aspire to be one. He could lead, sure, but never command. Not like that bastard Rex did.

"God damn it....Yuna...Please hear me..." he whispered, holding her hand and not even bothering to hide it anymore; everyone knew that they were an item, and if the Sector goons watching over him on this visit. "Kami-sama...If you're listening....Please....If you can do anything...Trade my blood for hers...If need be, take my life. Don't let her suffer for my sins." the man added, tears starting to stream down his cheeks. All his life he fought to be a shield, to use his body to save others the suffering he endured...And here he was, failing the woman he fell in love with for the second time. Even worse was that his attempt to save her.

"Ugh, get a room...Another room, I mean...Whatever, let's go, Fiend. Visiting time is over...Back in your cage." a guard grumbled, yanking Hotsuma up and pulling him out of the room.

A short while later, Yusei himself would be allowed to visit; he wanted to let Yuna know that Fayth was still safe...But heard that the Fiend had broken in to the Supermax wing and alerted the medical staff. "A strange man; to show such mercilessness to one and such drive to protect for another. Yuna and Fayth were good friends, and yet he did that to her...And Yuna, running like a woman possessed...What in the world is going with these two?" he wondered, approaching her bed.

"Yuna...I know you probably can't hear me, but I just want you to know that Fayth is still safe for now. A bit cold, from what she tells me, but otherwise well. Recovering from the injuries your lover inflicted on her."[/i] he then said, unaware of the phenomena that was able to unfold in front of him.
 

Fayth smiled. There was something very satisfying about hearing Hotsuma and Yuna had screwed Sector over pretty hard; likely due to her disdain for this prison. It wasn't bringing out the absolute worst in her, but it was definitely tempting her to become less than civil every now and again. She could only blame this shit hole ... and Jack for sending her here. Hopefully, whatever Yuna had in store, would be executed sooner than later. "Well ... glad they got their hard-knock schooling on Karma. She really is quite the bitch. Seems like his place is overdue for that kinda lesson."

Her head nodded as she shrugged, "I'm pretty sure that somewhere in my life, I became cursed. Trouble has definitely been finding me rather frequently the past few years."

She hesitated, thinking long and hard how to bring it up. Vague, Fayth opted, and pointed to the blindfold. "This, unfortunately, wasn't ... a natural occurrence. It was forced .... by Sector, in fact."

It wasn't a complete lie. The Obelisk Force were essentially the equivalent of Sector, after all; however, since Fayth was going along and pretending she didn't know how to dimension hop, it was best to replace the true culprit with Sector.

"Yeah. I definitely appreciate Jack giving me my spot." A small chuckle passed her lips, "But I think he may regret that. I intend to make up for the fast stunt he pulled against me when I get out. Yuna's been hinting she's got something up her sleeve; I'm trusting her. She's one of the few people I can sincerely say that about. If anything, I owe her far too much not to. I really don't know what I did. Jack asked me to meet him one night. And .... as far as I know, he set me up. If I had to guess, ordered by Goodwin. Son of a bitch. It just ... felt too perfect, and random. Plus, like you hinted and confirmed, Jack does have a moral compass. This doesn't seem like him; to just throw someone away with no actual reason."

... Hopefully he wasn't all that bad. He couldn't be, could he? Fayth hadn't forgotten that Jack, too, had a Sign of his own. Thus, he couldn't be the worst person in the world to have earned such a thing. Hopefully that was the case, anyway.
During the entire time she was transported, Yuna never once moved. Her breathing continued at a gradual pace that all but threatened to stop soon enough. It never went that badly, fortunately, but it wasn't a pretty visit. This was definitely much worse than what Hotsuma saw back at Arcadia. She was getting colder and paler, even with medical attention. The IVs were working ... but only to certain extents, it'd seem.

Sure enough, everything did indeed change once Hotsuma left the infirmary.

Hearing the voice ... no. That wasn't what made Yuna groan. Was it mentioning Fayth? Oddly, no. There was something else; another factor so simple but yet one she just couldn't pinpoint off the top of her head.

"Fayth ... "

As if her mind suddenly clicked on the name hat passed her lips, she sat quickly up, eyes wide and breathing heavily. It would have been a sight Hotsuma would recall; looking and acting like she'd damn well nearly drowned. Her pulse almost immediately went from being too slow to just a bit too quick.

"Sh-She really is? Where am I? W-what happened?"

"That's what we would like to know!" A nurse said, gently but firmly pushing Yuna back down. "You were found in your cell in a coma. But ... without any obvious triggers. Has this been a problem with you?"

" ... Only one other time."

"One?! That's one too many! What caused it?"

Yuna's head weakly moved from side to side. "I really don't know. I'm not just spouting that. It was random too back then."

The nurse was hastily jotting notes down as Yuna spoke. Very likely putting this on her medical record. "And how long ago was that?"

... Good question. It felt like a fucking eternity. But ... the truth was ....

" ... A month ago? Probably sooner, like two to three weeks."

"Dear god! Where were you when this happened?!"

Yuna sighed. If it weren't for the fact she wanted to get this mystery solved, she'd beg the nurse to just leave her be. As it was? Even this was something that - admittedly - did creep her out. Particularly since the first time ... she'd died for a minute or so. Seemed she got lucky this time around. Somehow. But ... if she gave that answer away, would it reveal her powers?

Probably. And that's why she opted to lie, even against her better judgment.

"I ... don't remember. Sorry."
 

Kiryu just laughed, "Yeah, suppose it was Karma's time to shine. Guess the Fiend is more slippery than we thought though; usually he's the type to broadcast what he does to Sector. It was a manhunt trying to find out who did it."

And when she found out that Sector forced her in here, he just shook his head, "Sheesh. You know, I used to know Jack. I'm sure it's all very hush-hush, given how he was to maintain his Kingly image." Giving her a very sly smile, he then added after he was sure no one was listening, "Jack was originally from Satellite himself. Used to run with me in my Duel Gang, the Enforcers. He's definitely strong, but he's not the poster boy their City thinks he is. Imagine if that juicy tidbit got out."

Of course, it was an easy olive branch for him to extend, especially with how disdainfully she was speaking of 'The King'. And he knew from his various interactions with the guards that no one was the wiser; if Sector didn't know of all people, there was no way that those peon Topsiders would know about it.

"But even then, you're right; he did have a moral compass. I don't know much about Goodwin, other than that he clearly has an extreme control fetish or some weird shit. Throwing a blind girl in the Facility? That's a new low, even for him."



Yusei didn't interrupt as Yuna would answer the nurse's questions; even so, the young lady looked a bit worried that the girl couldn't recall where she was. Had to have been something traumatic, to make her forget that. They would certainly need to add whatever they gathered here to her record, to keep an eye on her. All in all though, Yuna would find that she was being treated quite well, all things considered.

Only when the nurse left did Yusei approach her again; he could tell she was holding information back, but he wouldn't push her for information too hard. Whatever had happened, was personal; but honestly, he was just glad to see she was alright. "To answer your question, Yuna...Yes, she really is fine. She's recovering quite well; I haven't really seen Kiryu even engage with her all that much. Seems to keep to himself. So, for now at least, she doesn't appear to be in any danger."

At this he would sit in the seat next to her bed, "But Yuna, much as I don't mind helping you, I can't help but feel like there's more you're not telling me. After your display in the Pit, The Fiend breaking into the maximum security wing to find you after doing what he did to Fayth, and now this? I understand if it's too personal...But there are so many things that aren't adding up." He then looked at her and asked, "What happened with you two?"
 

"You sound like you know The Fiend? Is that true or ... is he just that infamous around here?"

Fayth gave a quick, casual shrug. "Like you noticed, I try to stay out of trouble. So I don't really pay much heed to names, particularly of ... well, delinquents. No offense, but that is what most of this area seems to have; punks or thugs in some form or fashion."

... Seems to? Goddamnit, Fayth. You may have just given too much away.

She swallowed softly ... then tilted her head as he started very freely speaking of Jack.

... The Enforcers? Is that when Yusei used to know him? When they were all together as the Enforcers?

Curious as she was, Fayth had already decided since being placed into solitary that bringing Yusei up would be about as intelligent as playing Russian Roulette. If he ever came up ... it wouldn't be from her. And hell, maybe she could circumnavigate that topic .... somehow.

"If you used to know Jack, why are you telling me this? Have a fall out with him or something?"

It was indeed otherwise a very nice sign of good will. Still, Fayth couldn't help but feel like it was handed over too easily. Worse off, there wan't really any gesture she could return back; not without exposing too much information she was desperately trying to keep hidden.

"Not that I'm ungrateful or anything ... quite the opposite, in all honesty. Just a bit surprised to hear you so openly give that away."

.... And that was when the possibility clicked.

"Is there some sort of catch I'm missing? Not trying to sound accusing or anything, but that does tend to be how people operate. Particularly in settings like prison."

Oddly, the moments after the nurse left were some of the best for her.

Oh thank god; he is smart enough to figure out I'm a crappy liar ..

In all honesty, hiding what she truly could do was ... annoying. Att least from certain people; mainly those she had even a slither of faith in. It was bad enough keeping her now ex-student in the dark; literally and proverbially so. She didn't want to risk doing that with everyone, though. Shit, she already had a lot of explaining ot do with her own group. And .... even with how loyal Hajime usually was, she wouldn't blame him if this would make him want to leave. Assuming he wasn't already like her, that was.

"This stays between us," she said in a low, stern voice. "Given Goodwin already came here and visited me once ... I had to lie. Me and Sosuke ... you've already pieced together we're not normal. And I mean way past the typical aspects of whatever bit of normalcy even exists nowadays .... that's true. You're right. I do really remember perfectly where I was ... though I wish I didn't. We were ... found and abducted by Arcadia. They did a shit ton of experiments and made us Psychics. They were too ambitious ... and succeeded a bit too well, in my honest to gods opinion."

Reaching over, Yuna closed the door. Even took a moment to ensure no cameras were here ... and was pleasantly surprised to see there weren't. Well, that was likely what the "Call Nurse" button was for, anyway.

"I'm not fully sure what's going on with Sosuke ... but it seems like his Fiend is getting the best of him. And that's really worrying me. A lot."

One moment, Yusei would be looking at the Yuna he knew ... the next, it was a very familiar red-haired warrioress. Complete with everything, even the sword adorned on her back.

"This," she said, gesturing to her new form, "Is the result of Arcadia's tampering with my body. Sosuke has a Fiend equivalent .... and I'm fearing it's dominating him much more than the man I allied myself with. He never used to be this way. His mannerisms when he fought Fayth .... that's not the real Sosuke. If it were, I wouldn't have even associated with him. I know something's wrong with him."

Her fists clenched the sheets as she shifted back to her normal form.

"It is true that I don't know what caused... whatever I woke up from. But ... given there is a common trend, I'm guessing it involves using my form too long. I just used the more subtle parts, but I was definitely in it for far too long yesterday. I don't know if Fayth's hinted we're certain about forcing our way out. But ... that's basically he long and short of why. Because we have the capability of making this place collapse ... and more. However ... if Sosuke is changing in a very literal sense ... this may be a blessing and a curse. And when the latter arrives ... "

Yuna's head moved from side to side.

"I'm not even sure if I - or anyone, really - will be safe."

She'd stay quiet, allowing everything he saw and heard to sink in, before repeating once more. "Seriously, this has to stay between us. Please. I'm already kicking myself for not telling Fayth as it is. But that's ... more of a precaution. You ... you'e smarter than me. You know when to keep your head down and mouth shut much better than me. Fayth ... she probably can. The problem is ... if Goodwin decides to visit again ... he's already figured ways to manipulate her. And me, even; really annoying to be honest. I kinda am half-expecting a visit, simply from me falling into this fucking coma. He may wanna ask, so .... I'm taking quite the leap of faith by giving you all of this information. The only other person who knows is Sosuke himself; assuming he hasn't told anyone, that is."
 

"Wasn't always that way though; when the Enforcers were around, we actually managed to get things in line. But then Sector came in and started arresting us for dueling...That's when things got ugly." he explained; she wasn't wrong, the area was chaotic before and after the arrival of his own gang. "No offense taken though; to Sector, I'm definitely their poster boy of a punk and thug. But they shouldn't have come into our home and thrown us in prison for a game...Would have solved that problem."

When she asked about the situation with Jack, he just grinned, "Nah, no real bad feelings with him. Just someone I'd like to see fall from grace is all; he's built quite the popularity around himself, and part of me just wants to see it come crashing down."

And then she came to the part he was expecting: The catch. Oh, yes, he could very well include a stipulation of some kind if he chose...And he just might.

"I won't lie to you, Fayth...There is something I would like you to do for me. I'm not going to get out of here...Not ever, no matter what your friend says. So, when you get out, and you find the opportunity for it...Expose Jack for who he really is. You were looking for payback...I don't know if it will help, but hopefully it's something that can. That's my catch...Just use it whenever you see an opportunity."


Had Yusei not seen the Crimson Dragon before he arrived here at the Facility, he would have found Yuna's tale far too incredible to believe. But given everything that had happened, it was making more sense. His eyes did widen in surprise as she literally transformed right in front of him, becoming a different woman altogether. And if Sosuke did have this 'Fiend' within him just as Yuna did her Rose.

Well, suffice to say that certainly explained a lot. He even went so far as to look down at his right arm, holding it up closer to him. "Is this part of what Yanagi was talking about? These events that would herald the arrival of an evil that the Signers are destined to fight?" Yusei mused; even if he wasn't a true believer in destiny, he was certain that things didn't just happen for no good reason. There was always an explanation, even if it might defy normal expectations.

After all, Yuna just shifted into a Duel Monster, and he witnessed a giant spectral dragon appear. He wasn't so daft as to ignore when things were obviously different than they usually were, and these last few days had certainly qualified.

He just shook his head as she explained again that he needed to keep it between them, "So far, Goodwin doesn't know that I know...And I will keep it that way." And with this, he stood up; if he wanted to maintain the illusion that she and he weren't all that interested in each other, he needed to keep his visits short. If only to keep their common hingepoint on Fayth alone and nothing else. "I should probably go; they'll start asking questions if I hang around for too long." he then said, making his way to the door....

But before he left, he would say one last thing, "Yuna...If it's true what you said about Sosuke...You should also know that part of him is clearly still fighting it, even if it is a losing battle. After all...He was the reason you were found." And before giving her a chance to reply, he would go on his way, leaving her be once more.
 

... If Fayth hadn't felt uneasy before, that did it. He held no ill will but wanted to see someone he knew fall from grace? That practically contradicted itself. Even though Fayth herself wanted the same, she had a reason. As far as she could hear, Kiryu wanted it for the sake of pure ... desire? Want of some kind?

Either way, this felt very wrong.

And the amiss sensation only got stronger when he did reveal his 'request'. Fayth chuckled, moving her head from side to side before looking up to make eye contact with Kiryu. "Well then ... if you want to go off that logic, I likely won't get out either. As far as Sector's concerned, I 'assaulted' Jack ... even though it was very much the other way around. He grabbed me and tried to keep me from leaving when the talk started going south. But of course, with Sector being who they are ... they probably labeled him a hero or some shit."

A low scoff passed her lips as she shook her head disapprovingly, "Seriously, don't say that. Please. I won't lie; I am wondering how much longer they need. But part of what's been keeping me even a slight bit sane is ... I do trust Yuna. Even if you don't Sosuke or Yuna. She keeps her promises. So if nothing else, she will go through with whatever they have in mind."

For a few seconds, Fayth had almost seriously considered slapping Kiryu for being so pessimistic and making her worry. To help keep her from doing something too rash, she held onto her pant leg and gripped it firmly, only letting go when the urge disappeared.

"But ... let's assume you're right. That, somehow, I get out but you don't. Trust me when I say you don't need to tell me twice. I fully intend on doing just that."
Yuna leaned her head back on the pillow, looking visibly relieved. "I owe you so fucking much. I don't even know how to start repaying you. I just ... I had to get this off my chest somehow. So ... thank you."

... It was only there for a few seconds. But part of Yuna wanted to sit up and offer him thanks with a quick kiss. No. That wasn't her style, and she doubted he'd accept it.

Besides, if Fayth really does like him, it would be unfair to be steal something like that, she decided, smirking at the thought.

" ... Yeah. Unfortunately, I get where you're going with that point. Nosy pricks, they would likely prod about me having a visitor for so long." Yuna started carefully pulling the covers up over her. When Yusei halted, she looked over ... and felt tears begin to form in her eyes.

Every fucking time she thought she'd cried all she could, nope. Something set her off. Hearing Hotsuma had been why she was found was good. But then ... it confirmed exactly what Yusei said. He probably was losing his fight. She definitely did not imagine things yesterday so ... it was one of the few things that made sense.

" .... Thank you for that. It ... does help, actually."

And after he left, she took her turn to slam a clenched fist against the wall, not caring if her IVs were moved at an uncomfortable angle or if she bruised her hand.

Goddamnit, love. What's going on with you? You're starting to worry me .... a lot.

As reassuring as the news had been, it further strengthened her original vows she made to him yesterday. Yuna definitely didn't want to see him. Not yet ... but not it was less out of anger and more out of fear that she wouldn't be talking with the person she wanted to. Just as she and Rose weren't the same person, that exact concept applied to the Emperor and Hotsuma. Same body, maybe, but they were both very different as far as personas and personalities went.
 

Kiryu got the idea that she maybe distrusted him a bit from that statement; still, he wouldn't pay it much mind. It was the same way most people in the Satellite felt: He was an arrogant brat who deserved to be taken down a few pegs.

Besides, he could feel she was still being civil and he would continue to do the same.

"Well, that hardly seems fair. Most would see it that he'd be the bigger threat, not you; not to call you weak or anything, but anyone in the Satellite wouldn't call you much of a fighter by looking at you." He did seem surprised that Jack actually forced her to try and stay; what had she said that got him all worked up, he wondered. Now he was curious about this girl...And more convinced that using her would be excellent for his plans with Yusei.

Still, he just chuckled, "Forgive me if I seem dismissive, but so far all they've done is just beat up us two. Yuna with me, and Sosuke with you. Even so...I can tell you believe in her. So for your sake, at the very least, I hope you're right. And if I do somehow manage to leave this place...I just want to say thanks, Fayth. Having someone to talk to...It really helps."


With Yusei having completed his visit, he decided to return to visit the Fiend. And since it was still about an hour before curfew, he would keep his visit short just as he'd done with Yuna. He couldn't help thinking about what Yuna had said; if this Fiend did have such control, then he definitely have a long and hard battle ahead of him.

At the very least, he could give the guy some comfort in knowing he didn't have to face this alone...And that if he could help him, he would.

He found the Fiend sitting in his cell, looking rather despondent; if it was as bad as Yuna said, then he could only imagine what it was like. Having a literal demon inside one's body was probably unsettling. Hotsuma just looked up and saw this kid staring at him, growling "The hell you looking at?" Yusei didn't respond at first, only saying "Just wanted to stop by and let you know Yuna was awake. Tell me though...Why did you do it?"

Hotsuma sighed, "Well...Supposed I shouldn't be surprised. Hasn't been the first time it's happened. Anyway...Thanks, I guess. Now fuck off, yeah? Trying to figure shit out." Yusei's eyes narrowed; it was clear that the transformations did affect him like Yuna said. All he saw was a guy that wanted to protect that which he valued, a sentiment he understood all too well. And with that, Hotsuma was left alone once more.

"So...About the reason you were able to have that guard let you in, that was your question?" he then heard the Emperor ask, Hotsuma smiling weakly, "Yeah...So, that weird shit in my arm did it? Can it help me find Miyamoto? Find a way to let everyone out at once?" His contracted spirit just chuckled, "Whelp, if you want it bad enough, there is very little it can't do. It won't reverse death or anything ridiculous as that...But for simple things as possession? Child's play...Why else do you think the pictograph on your Falling Down card looks like your mark? That is what my power is largely known for. It takes, all that it needs is its wielder to know what they desire...Understand? Now...When another guard comes by, we'll try it again..."


The next day, Hotsuma would indeed put his newfound ability to use; the first thing he tried was on a guard to get him another blanket. Something that would earn him a few hard stares, but wouldn't raise suspicion by the Warden. Today, he actually found out that he was on kitchen duty, so he got to help the meals. Not that he was going to have to do much; the food in here was barely edible as it was, made with the intents to let idiots heat it up and serve it on trays. Only the guards and staff got anything decent, and naturally the Warden's fat ass got the best.

While he was doing this, he got to another guard; it was here that he handed the guard a note, to have it sent to Yuna in the infirmary. He knew that she probably still wouldn't speak to him, and honestly she might even throw the note away...But at the very least, he was going to let her know that in the next day or two, he was going ahead with the plan. That he'd found a way to break them all out. And that he'd carry her out on his shoulders if need be.

And of course, he got the chance to deliver a meal to one of the Warden's higher-ups, second or third in command...And after a quick little branding of both him and his escort to make sure nothing happened, Hotsuma learned where the cell was and was even given the access codes to a restricted area of the prison. "Nee-san...Don't worry, I'm getting you out." he mentioned in his head; as much as he wanted to just go in there right now...There was still one last loose end he needed to confirm.

Raiko. The question was, how to get him out here...

That would come on the next day, when the Warden actually confronted another inmate...And found a switchblade in his jumper pocket. "That was a bullshit plant..." Hotsuma muttered, clenching the rails as he was dragged to the center for everyone to see. Soon enough, the pained howls as he was beaten could be heard, Hotsuma holding himself back; soon, very soon, he would unleash hell on this prison. And bring it crashing down; and then, THEN, he'd have the last laugh at Sector's pathetically despotic dictatorship.

Only when the Warden spoke up, throwing a very broken and bloodied Jin Himuro on the ground, would there be a noticeable change in the atmosphere "Since this maggot not only concealed a weapon, probably to try and stab one of MY officers, but refuses to tell me who gave it to him, GUESS WHAT?! All you losers get to sit in your little cages for another year! And, you don't get to leave them at all!"

Naturally, this caused an uproar, the guards in the towers readying their riot weapons as they shouted about how that was unfair and they didn't all have to be punished for it, Armstrong laughing "Awww, shut up! You bunch of ladies think you have rights, huh? You're trash! Always have been, always will be! The reason you're here is because this is where you belong! No one cares about you, society thinks you're better off dead and if it were up to me, I'd gas the blocks just to make more room! Because you little shits seem to breed like rabbits! If you bitches have any complaints, speak up now!"

Yusei at this point, did step in, right in front for everyone to see "No one in this world is unneeded, Warden; thinking otherwise is downright idiotic Jin is innocent. As a genuine Duelist, I know for a fact he wouldn't go so low as to carry a weapon like that." At this the Warden paused, a slightly confused expression on his face before he laughed, "Is that what you think, boy? Then tell me, how did it get in his pocket? You're not going to say something ridiculous like I planted it, are you?"

At this Yusei didn't say a word, only looking right at the Warden the whole time; the big man just gave a loud 'Hrmph' and replied, "Well, suppose you're not going to let this go...What are you going to do about it, huh? Duel me?" At this Yusei did smile a little, "Actually, that's exactly what I was thinking...And here are the conditions. If I win, Jin there is pardoned for his offense and everyone gets their free time back. If I lose...I'll be the only one stuck in a cell. Sound fair?"

The Warden couldn't help grinning, "Fine by me...We'll have our match in one hour! Half past ten! Until then, all you maggots back in your cells! Guards, use whatever force you have to!"

And sure enough, the guards began forcing prisoners back inside, locking the cell doors after each was secured. And one guard put his hands on Hotsuma, who just grinned and grabbed his wrist, saying mentally after getting a short read, "Do me a favor...Let the warden know his 'special guest' is about to be set free. Might want to have someone look into that...And tell Officer Raiko Tsunohire that Sosuke knows. And that he's VERY upset." Naturally, Hotsuma's last desire was to have his brother harmed...But if he was vague enough, he imagined that Raiko would show up to confront him; with the Warden busy in a duel,



Kiryu, meanwhile, was just listening; the Warden made sure to broadcast his little speech across the entire prison, it seems. Even to the wings where they couldn't see what was going on. But even more amazing was Yusei's unmistakable voice coming over the loudspeakers as well.

"Well...Guess we're not so different, eh Fayth? For a year, this entire prison's a Supermax wing...Unless Yusei wins, of course. I know who I'm rooting for, of course...But I don't put it past the Warden to try and cheat. All I can say is...If your friend Yuna doesn't do something soon, we're all looking at a very long stay."
 

Fayth took her turn to accept some of Kiryu's words with a grain of salt. He'd been fine with her saying most people were delinquents and punks; even admitted to being one himself. So ... she could accept that, yes, she was not the fighting type. Not usually, anyway. "Not normally, no. Only if I absolutely have to. But even then, I'm not nearly as good as Yuna is. I didn't hear the commotion, but I did catch wind of her beating some of the guards after I passed out. They thought they were smart enough to get away with .... well, trying to inappropriately touch her."

The thought made her shudder. Not that Fayth wasn't glad Yuna had dealt with that situation. But .... really? Even rape or attempted rape was seriously an issue here? That honestly made her sick to think about.

"Oh ... no, no. I should be apologizing. I probably have seemed overly quiet or paranoid. I would't blame you if you thought that, anyway. But .... well, trust isn't something to just give away, particularly here of all places. Still ... "

Her own smile spread over her face as she nodded. "The talking has helped. Immensely. So ... thanks for that, also, Kiryu. I appreciate it."

Shifting against the wall, Fayth elicited a small sigh. Her eyes shut as she did one of the few things she could without much interruption; get some rest.
Yuna had - very begrudgingly - been kept in the infirmary. And, as far as she could detect, was kept on far too many sedatives for her own good. She was groggy as fuck. Holy hell, did she feel like shit.

Wouldn't be surprised if the Warden ordered this for soome fucking reason ....

"Oi! Why am I still here?! I'm better, aren't I?!"

"Surveillance," she heard for what felt like the millionth time, making her roll her eyes. Thankfully, there was a part two, "But .... you're clear today."

... Oh lovely. When I don't know about being able to leave, this shit happens? Fan-fucking-tastic.

She had gotten the note from Hotsuma. And it was true that, at first, she wasn't sure whether to say anything back. However, if only to test who was in charge by this point, she took a deep breath and focused on making a link with him while the nurse gathered her dismissal papers. Okay, not only, but that was a correct reason nonetheless.

"Yo. So ... you may have to carry me. These pricks have kept me injected with far too much medicine. Okay, who am I kidding; sedatives? Shit, I don't know if I should be moving out of the infirmary alone .... but I'll try. Thanks though. We're done with our stay, as far as I'm concerned. Please .... careful. Hopefully in the next day or two, I can better help out."

Yuna groaned, gripping quickly onto the bed as she felt herself damn well nearly fall over.

"You alright?" the nurse asked, causing Yuna to glare angrily over at the medic.

"Do I look it?! Jesus, the hell have you all been doing to me?! No ... not what. Why? I'm not stupid; I've been feeling it."

" .... Here are your papers."

... Of course they'd ignore her. Nothing new; go figure. An irked huff left Yuna's lips as she took the clipboard and began signing. "Seriously though," Yuna emphasized, "I should not be going out like this. Can .... can you get Yusei to help me out or someone? Fuck. I can barely .... oh god."

Pen and clipboard fell out of Yuna's hands as she collapsed back onto the bed. "You .... are idiots! Too much ... of ... what-fucking-ever you used! God .... " Her hands rose as Yuna held her head. She felt dizzy ... like everything was quickly spinning. Whatever this was, nothing good could come from having any of this still in her system.
Fayth, meanwhile, lifted her head as the broadcast played.

.... NO, YUSEI! You don't have to sacrifice yourself like that!

Her fists clenched as Yusei offered to willingly let himself be locked up. This was wrong. This whole place ... it was beyond fucked up. Her head turned, falling atop her kneecaps as she hid herself the only way she could. "I haven't heard from Yuna in a while .... I'm getting worried about that."

.... Oops. Well, another thing she couldn't take back, so ....

" ... Somehow, she has telepathy. She usually has been talking to me. The last I heard from her was she ended up in the infirmary ... "

Not from Yuna, but Yusei, whom had been checking on them. Very likely due to Yuna, if she had to guess. Either way, this was the easiest way to keep her half-lie guise continuing while avoiding directly bringing Yusei up.

"I'm not sure what's going to happen," she admitted, whimpering weakly. "Unless, as you said, Yuna acts soon .... then we have to hope Yusei doesn't get cheated too badly that he can't get a win secured."
 

Hotsuma had heard the reply after his little talk with the guard, having implanted a few other things he wanted relayed before being seated back in his cell.

"Well now...And here I thought I had made your shit-list. Seems your friend was right about you...But seriously, I'm glad that you're alright. And I don't care if I have to push you out on the hospital bed you're laying in; you might have told me to leave you, but there's fucking no chance I'm doing that. Just get your rest...I'm going to see about something. Stay safe yourself, alright?"

And when he didn't hear anything back, he figured it was whatever they injected her; fucking pricks, he thought. Well...At least she was safe in the hospital for now; that took one less worry off his mind.

But now...He had to play the waiting game, and have another guard or two come by. Then he could put his plan into action.

Once Yuna was sufficiently under the influence of the drugs, that was when the call was made. And moments later, the Warden himself appeared in the sick bay, standing over Yuna's bed. If he had any intent of molesting her, this would be very much like her stay in Arcadia...But no, the man had something else in mind.

"You sure that shit works? You know what she pulled off yesterday right?" Armstrong asked the nurse, nodding "Against my advice, yes...She should be completely immobile. But Warden, it was dangerous to administer that level of sedative to a patient with her...'condition'." The Warden just sneered, "So long as she ain't dead, I don't care if she's a drooling mindless fup. Fucking vagrant who thinks she's somebody; let's see how that trash Yusei likes it when I up the stakes a little. Boys...Take her away."

And just like that, Yuna would be lifted off the bed and hoisted over two men's shoulders, one arm over each. Armstrong just grinning as she was carted off...Before he ran into someone else. "Eh, the hell do you want?" Warden asked the guard, who blankly said "Sir...It seems Sosuke knows of our 'special guest'." The Warden huffed, "So? Is that supposed to scare me?"

The officer just shrugged, "I don't know sir...But he says to let Officer Raiko Tsunohire know that he's on his way...And that he's very upset." Armstrong's eyebrows twitched a bit, "That's not funny, dickhead!" The officer could only shake his head, "It is no joke, sir; I let him out myself...And gave him the codes needed to access the cell near your office." This promptly earned him a hard punch across the jaw, knocking him out and leaving the Warden shaking with anger.

"Officer Tsunohire, get your ass up to my office, double time! Do not let the Fiend access Prisoner 0XAG51A's cell! Take as many people as you need with you!" The Warden shouted into his radio, gripping it so hard it actually started to creak and groan in his fingers. Damn it all; did the Fiend convince that Fudo punk to duel him so that he could create a diversion?

"Gotta fucking do everything my damn self...Fudo, I'll make quick work of you boy, then I'll see to the Fiend." he grumbled, making his way to the arena where he would duel that piece of trash in front of everyone.


Hotsuma, meanwhile, was walking out and about of his cell, flanked by two of Sector's finest; unlike trying to lift things with the tendrils from the spot on his arm, he found the concept of mental domination quite easy. He wasn't entirely sure how it worked, nor how long he might have had it...But it was a welcome surprise.

"You...Open it" he then said to the guard on his left, the trio coming up to the door leading to the restricted area. She would only nod in response, coming in to push the code and allow them through. With the Warden about to Duel, Hotsuma felt it the best time to make sure that he would get two things accomplished here.

Get his brother free...And see whether Raiko was truly a blue-blooded traitor.

"Well, worm...You seem to be getting this much more fluidly. Perhaps I was wrong about you yet. But tell me...How do you plan on getting out? You basically all but told the Warden you were coming here?" his spirit asked, Hotsuma smiling "Simple. Once I get my brother, you're going to be his shield...And then we're quite literally busting out of here, and letting everyone out. Unless the armor you wear is paper-maiche shit?" The Emperor just scoffed, "Whelp, even the most powerful firearms your security force uses could not penetrate it."

Hotsuma just grinned, "Good...That means we shouldn't have any interruptions then." Once the door to the restricted area was opened, he then said, "Alright you two...Lead the way."



The Warden would already be at the center of the Dueling Arena, having a certain set-up covered by a black drape. He planned on surprising Yusei with this when he came here; make him see what he was really fighting for. The boy still had a ways to go.

"He's got twenty minutes...Otherwise I win by default! Bahahaa!" the Warden laughed, definitely planning on using whatever advantage he could to bring Yusei down.
 

Poor Yuna tried to reply to Hotsuma. She wanted to reassure him he only temporarily made her shit list. But more importantly, while she was laying on the bed feeling god-awful, she wanted to inform him that something was very wrong. Whatever had been in her IVs was more than just pain medication; that was becoming more and more clear as she felt everything stop. Almost, that was. Her pulse remained. Yuna's muscles, however, failed to heed her commands. Even the simpler tasks such as sitting up felt impossible.

"Why?" she muttered, narrowing her eyes as she barely managed to recognize one voice who soon walked inside; Armstrong's. "You ... you fucker! What .... what have you done?!"

Her body tensed as she attempted once more to coerce her body to cooperate by trying to pull her arms away. Alas, the efforts were to no avail. If anything, the guards squeezed down on her limp arms.

"Wouldn't recommend it," one advised, "Not unless you wanna fall on your face and bust your head open again."

Unable to argue save for a weak 'Tch', Yuna's head lulled forward as she reluctantly allowed herself to be guided into Dueling Arena. Somewhere in between blinking and trying to readjust her sight, she must have passed out a few times. When Yuna finally came to, she was chained down on the floor, forced on her knees. Her head lifted as she raised an eyebrow. "Yo. Armstrong. I ... don't really think I can duel too well like this. You know that right?"

Unbeknownst to Yuna, the PA was already active ... which gave away to everyone in the entire Facility it wouldn't only be Yusei inside the Dueling Arena.
Yusei had been going over his deck. Save for his missing Stardust Dragon, it was the same. As much as it bothered him to be without his important card, it'd have to do. When he heard a familiar voice on the PA system, his eyes widened ... and then narrowed. Having been done with checking his deck, he broke into a run. That was his mind playing tricks on him. Right?

His eyes narrowed further as he walked in and found Yuna. "Why have you dragged Yuna here?" he asked calmly ... yet very much irked at the sight before him. She looked barely coherent. Somehow, even weaker than in the infirmary ... why? Whatever was going on, this was even worse than the coma he found her briefly in.
Fayth's head whipped as she heard her friend's voice.

".... What bullshit is this?! She already had her fight!"

Fayth sighed, crossing her arms over her chest. It wasn't as obvious due to no cameras in solitary. But there was something ... off about Yuna's voice. Her teeth nervously grabbed onto her lower lip. Irritating as it was, the most she could do was wait for the warden to give some sort of a response. And given the PA was hooked throughout the entire prison, it was easy to assume everyone would hear it. Including a very certain, over-protective lover of hers.
 

Armstrong just watched as Yusei was led in - or rather, as he sprinted ahead of the guards that were supposed to be tailing him - and started demanding to know why Yuna was chained up. He hadn't even bothered to reply to her, simply stating "Well, I have to imagine that it's because I felt like upping the stakes a little. See, these rules are simple, just like the Pain Pit. The lower your Life, the higher voltage you get each time it's drained."

He then placed a hand on his chest, saying to the bound woman in a sickly sweet tone "And you know what? I happen to know that shit fucking hurts, so Miss Takeda 'volunteered' herself to take it for me. Isn't that sweet of her? Love you too, darling, hahaha." He then turned his attention back to Yusei, "Of course...You can always just quit. And tell you what: If you do, I'll even honor the part where it's just you that gets locked away for year. No one else has to suffer...Seem like a fair deal?"

At this, he would hear several waves of successive booing, looking up to seeing the other inmates watching them from the levels above. "Oh god, we have an audience....They can watch as their hope for liberation dies with you, boy. You're always going to be trash...No matter what you do, no matter what you say...Now, are we going to do this or what? Officers, give him his disk...And remove the voltage limiters while you're at it. He wants to come in here all smug and sure, let's see if he can really take what he wants to dish out."

And once they were set, both of their disks would read '8000', and Armstrong saying "And hey, you know what? I'm feeling generous today, so why don't you take first move, hm? Gotta keep it fair, you know, hahaha."


Hotsuma just paused as he heard the commotion; the fuck was this about?! "Coward..." the Emperor hissed, seeming quite upset with this tactic. Something that even surprised Hotsuma, "And here I thought you were just another heartless dirtbag." If Hotsuma could see his spirit's face, it would definitely be a huge scowl as he replied, "There is a difference between commanding loyal troops and using hostages...The latter is a deplorable tactic when one knows they cannot win. Better to die with honor than live through cowardice...Let us go there, and ram our blade through his still-beating heart."

At this Hotsuma was definitely contemplating it; especially when the Warden went so far as to call Yuna 'darling'...That definitely made his rage spike, so much so that even Yuna and Fayth would feel it. But, he did calm down and shook his head "No...She'll probably get pissed at me if I break away now. I can only hope Yusei does...whatever he did to get Yuna awake, and keep her safe here." He then would add, not even sure if the guy could hear him "Yusei....If you can hear this, kindly kick his fat fucking ass for me. I'll be there shortly and figure out how to get you both out of that shitshow."

Pressing onward, he would arrive at the door to the cell where his brother was kept...Except he would soon be stopped when he heard a voice...One that was all too familiar.

"Sosuke...Freeze. Put your hands in there...Officers, step away from the inmate." And when they didn't comply, he commanded "Officers! Lay down your weapons and step away from Sosuke! That is a direct order!" At this, the two that were escorting Hotsuma turned around and tried to fire...Only to be met with a volley of bullets that dropped them both, the Fiend still with his back turned facing the door.

At this, Hotsuma just sighed, "So....Guess Yuna wasn't lying...Raiko, after everything I did for you...All the times we had each other's backs...This is how you really are?" Raiko narrowed his eyes, adding "You're a danger to society, Sosuke; you're so caught in your mission for revenge you don't even see who you're hurting...How many more have to be beaten to near death, and some even to death, until you're satisifed?" At this Hotsuma grimaced, "I could ask you the same question...Do you know how many famililes your forces have torn apart? How many loved ones lost their lives in the name of your so-called justice? How many people just trying to survive have to be imprisoned for your Director to be happy?" Raiko clenched his fists, "That's not my decision to make...He helps keep us safe, keep the rogue elements in check! Were it not for thugs like you, Sector wouldn't even be needed!"

At this Hotsuma turned around and shouted, "IT'S BECAUSE OF SECTOR THAT I'M THIS WAY! YOU KNOW WHO'S BEHIND THAT DOOR!? HUH?! MY GODDAMN BROTHER! SO DON'T YOU FUCKING DARE LECTURE ME ABOUT BEING SAFE! AND THAT'S AFTER YOU BARBARIANS CRACKED OUR FATHER'S HEAD OPEN LIKE A MELON! LEFT HIM TO DIE AND BLEED RIGHT IN FRONT OF US! HE WAS JUST A TRASH COLLECTOR BUT YOU MORONS THOUGHT HE WAS SOME KINGPIN OR STUPID SHIT AND KILLED HIM!" Hotsuma was definitely breathing hard, his eyes tearing up as he recalled that day, holding himself back from outright sobbing. His cries of despair as his elder brother tried to calm him down, hugging him and making sure that he wouldn't be alone...Seeing the red stain the dirtied carpet of their run-down home. "And now....Now you have the audacity to even try to justify your heinous crimes by saying it's for the greater good?" Hotsuma choked out, looking right at Raiko with his fists clenching and eyes red.



Kiryu clicked his tongue; so, this was how far the Warden was willing to sink, huh? What a clown. "Hey, Fayth....Don't worry, alright? Remember how we were talking about Karma? Well...I think I'm starting to feel a bit of faith for that to happen. Call it a gut instinct, but I think our jolly fat ruler is about to get a huge steaming plate of it...Right in his ugly face."
 

"Darling?" Yuna repeated, scoffing and rolling her eyes. "Only one person has the right to call me that. Groggy as I am, it sure as shit ain't you; that I can say without any hesitation."

Yusei didn't necessarily look it, but both Hosuma and Yuna could feel it. He was livid; just simply keeping his words, emotions, and actions all in check. This was probably the most unfair thing he'd seen. True, the Pain Pit wasn't necessarily much better. But it was more fair in the sense of there weren't any hostages used. Armstrong could try to sugar coat and lie about Yuna volunteering; anyone with even just half a brain could obviously see that was the last thing she willingly agreed to do.

... Between how she appeared now and what she'd recently gone through, was it really fair to go through with this duel?

For a bit, he was ready to consider taking his own offer. If Armstrong would only lock him away .... that'd be more just than dueling and forcing Yuna to accept the Warden's pain.

No it wouldn't, he heard, making him sneak a sideways glance at Yuna. When she weakly smirked, he knew and understood where the voice came from.

Psychic, remember? Anyway .. don't let this bullshit tactic sway your determination. They .. they deserve their freedom, don't they? That's why you offered to duel this fucker, right?

"You're right," Yusei replied, turning to stare right at Armstrong. "Sorry to disappoint you, Mr. Armstrong, but I'm not backing down. I've already seen Yuna in and out of duels; she's tougher than you give her credit for. Even in the state you've forced her in ..... she'll live. She can endure this." His left hand rose as his own duel disk read 8000 LP.

A faint smirk crossed Yusei's face; both from seeing his starting hand and hearing Sosuke. There was - what he could assume - the more true man Yuna had joined with. Good; it helped confirm he had correctly let Yuna know he was indeed fighting his Fiend. Hearing the encouragement also made him feel better. There didn't sound like there would be any hard feelings or misinterpretations because, more likely than not, Yusei would have to carry Yuna out. Assuming this went as smooth as he was hoping, that was.

"Very well. Draw! I'll summon Marauding Captain. I activate his effect to special summon a second Marauding Captain. I'll set a card and end my turn!"

Anyone with a basic warrior deck would understand exactly what Yusei had done. Effectively, he kept himself invincible by creating an impenetrable wall. If there had been a completely different monster, this would be another story. But two Marauding Captains had their effects count for any others on the field which meant ... even if Armstrong got a stronger monster out, he couldn't attack.

As another warrior-user, Yuna chuckled. "Wow, Warden. Sucks to be you right about now. Already off to a crappy start, aren't ya?"

Fayth couldn't help but smile. Yep; that was definitely Yuna alright. Even while being forced in an unwanted situation, only her cell mate could come up with such a quip. Her grin expanded as she slowly scooted beside Kiryu. When she finished moving, she wasn't right next to him ... but easily in arm's reach. "I'd say right now it's less about the duel results and more ... what did they even do? I can only guess she was still in the infirmary when this happened. So ... I mean .... are they just gonna start .... doing whatever they did to Yuna upon others?"

Fayth shuddered at the thought.

"Neither Satellite nor the Tops are by any means perfect. But anywhere is hands down better than here. I'm ... scared of what'll happen to us. Especially if actions can't be taken yet ... or anytime soon."
 

The Warden just snickered as Yusei - almost predictably - shot down his offer. Shame, he would have honored the deal too...For about a day. "Tsk, tsk...Such pride, and you would willing harm this young woman, just to get back at little ol' me? This is exactly what I was talking about; and you wonder why the Director has to work so hard to keep this place operational. With such violent savages running about, you don't honestly think we can have that, do you? Gotta keep the folks in the Tops safe, after all."

Though he did click his tongue when Yusei summoned two Marauding Captains, creating a rather strong wall...But that was fine; his deck was built for defensive playing anyway. Laughing at Yuna, he would just reply, "Hah, you think this is anything to sweat over? This is a rookie move, one any newbie would instantly pick up on. I won't lie, it's effective...But it would do you a damn bit of good. If you can't break through an opponent's wall. But since you're done, I guess it's my turn then. Draw!"

Taking a quick look at his hand, he knew exactly what to do. "Since we're starting off on easy mode, I guess I won't spank you too badly at the very start. Besides, even if you hit me...I won't feel a damn thing. So I'll just set a monster face-down....Your move, trash."

Unknown to either of them, another squad of inmates was making their own moves; they'd heard the bullshit the Warden was pulling, and decided to help out Yusei. The leader of this little ragtag group was Kohei Aoyama, someone who knew his way around wiring and was actually arrested for vandalizing power boxes that led into Sector checkpoints. "Okay...This should be the control room that will let us help Yusei out. Just remember, hit the guards hard and hit 'em fast...Tobi, hand me the screwdriver." Taking the tool in hand from the scrawny brown-haired junior in his group, he carefully undid the access plate; they wouldn't have very long, and would need to barricade the door.

"Three...Two...One...Go!" he declared, using the makeshift tool to sever several lines and open the door; and before the group inside the room knew what him them...They were inside, the Sector team here all knocked unconscious. "Isara, Hanachi, use whatever you can find to barricade the entrance. Tobi, get the interface ready; I'm going to try and re-route the power to get you inside the Warden's disk...That fucker wants to cheat, let's level the playing field!"


Raiko was stunned, shocked in fact, at the revelation; so that was why he came all the way here. This whole deal of getting arrested, of just giving himself up...Damn, even he had to admit this was ballsy. Hard to find even family that would risk it all in the Facility just to get them out. And he could just tell the Fiend wasn't lying....Even so, he was here because of his crimes, and he couldn't just walk away from that.

"Shit....Sosuke, look...If what you're saying is true...Well, I can only say I'm sorry." Raiko started off, adding "But the fact is YOU broke the law. You have to answer for what you did...Just come quietly, and we can try to work this out, alright?"

Hotsuma's eyes drifted towards the floor, "Come...quietly? That it? Just roll over like a dog and take it?" His hands pushed back against the wall, preparing to do what he had to. "Raiko...You should know me better than that...After all, you said I was a danger, right? I'm the Fiend...Remember?" At this Hotsuma's eyes - the iris and sclera too a bright shade of red - shot right back to stare at the officer, his voice now possessing a hint of a manic quality, "So here's a better idea! Why don't YOU COME QUIETLY!?"

And before anyone knew it, a mass of black tendrils instantly erupted from behind him, all swarming towards the officers...And in a matter of seconds, they were wrapped from head to toe, only their faces exposed. "Good...Good! We can use these peons to help us escape. I'll subsume the others...But take Raiko personally...Make him pay for his betrayal; I would only cheat you by doing it myself."

"You know...THAT is a swell idea." Hotsuma said aloud, the entirety of his right arm now encased in a pulsing black mass, revealing itself as the source from which the binding tendrils came from. "Raiko, Raiko, Raiko....Did you really think I just gave myself up? That I came in as I was? Tough as I am...I would break before long, even if I fought day in and day out. No...What you see is why I grew so bold. I'm much different than you realize, my old friend..." Hotsuma sneered; honestly? He was kind of enjoying this. Even as the other guards his former accomplice brought with him fel to the will of himself and the Emperor, he left Raiko untouched...If only to see

If there was ever a definition for divine retribution, he may have just found it.

Walking up to the still restrained traitor, Hotsuma continued, "Now...Your friends are going to help me break everyone out. See?" He would then let the rest of them go, all of the Sector officers now possessing a tinge of red in their eyes as well. "We serve the Demon. We serve the Lord. His will is ours, His word is law." Well...Hotsuma didn't expect that, but thought little of it, turning his attention back to the traitor in his grasp. "And guess what, Raiko? You're joining them!" And slapping a hand on Raiko's cheek, the grey-haired young man would just howl as he felt his body squirm and his mind start to blank...

Kiryu just chuckled and laid a hand on Fayth's shoulder, keeping the interpersonal contact to a minimum to help her be more comfortable, "Well, no matter what happens, Fayth...Just know that I'll do what I can to protect you, alright? But hey, Yusei's already off to a strong start...All we gotta do is believe, right? And things will work out."
 

"Quite honestly, Armstrong, I'm pretty fucking sure this duel's gonna hurt you a lot more than me. Even with these electronic devices."

Yusei couldn't help but grin. As good as it was to see Yuna not being completely hindered by the muscle relaxing medication ... he still shook his head no after a few moments. "Yuna ... it's fine. Save your strength. Even if you are right on your guess, you'll need it also." His gaze then moved to the warden, watching him take his own turn. Defensive .... good. It'd give him time to get everything he needed. Even without Stardust Dragon, he had quite a few other Synchros that could pack quite a punch.

"My turn then. Draw! I summon Road Synchron." He nodded towards the first Marauding Captain. "Attack the set card!" The virtual image shattered, signaling the set monster wasn't strong enough even against the Marauding Captain.

"Now, attack him directly!"

It was at this exact moment that Yusei seemed to fully grasp the reality of how dire this match would be. Although it was the warden's life that dropped, it was as he said. He didn't wince or make any pained sounds.

Yuna, on the other hand, shuddered as she bit hard on her lower lip. Her fists clenched as she fought, trying her damnedest to keep relatively quiet. Shocks were still just that, though. Combined with the sedatives still flowing through her blood, it made everything even worse, as she could feel the volts about as strongly as Fayth would were she in Yuna's place.

"AHHHHHHH!"

"Yuna?!" Yusei gritted his teeth, narrowing his eyes at Armstrong. "Turn end!"

"Oi! You didn't have to stop!" Although slumped and basically on all fours, her head managed to lift so she could make eye contact with Yusei. "I told you .... don't let my presence and forced hostage position ruin your ability to duel. You ... you said I'd endure, right? Too many instances like that ... it'll bite you in the ass. Next time ... no holding back."

Yusei grimaced. She was right ... but he wished that wasn't the case. Still ... he couldn't argue either. "You're right .. okay. No more restraining myself then; I promise." He wouldn't like it ... but he'd do it. If only to keep his word to the other inmates. Besides ... he'd make up for hurting Yuna by getting her somewhere safe. Where that could be? He'd figure that out soon enough. Right now, his gaze and concentration lingered on the warden, waiting to see what he'd do for this turn.
... How? How was everyone else so confident? So brave? So much tougher than her? Was it as simple as they all had their sight but she didn't? Or was there something more?

Fayth envied people like Yuna, Fuyu, Reiji .. and now even Kiryu. Then again, the separation from Yuna had meant over the past days that she hadn't been able to get her night lessons. Without any actual mentor, it wasn't actually something she could simply teach herself. Even if she could ... she didn't want to risk Kiryu seeing. It felt too .. embarrassing.

Her smile further widened as she steadily leaned back, allowing Kiryu's hand to press a bit more firmly on her shoulder.

But when the scream resounded, she quickly rose her hands and covered her ears, whimpering.

"I really hope so," she replied softly, waiting for Yuna's cries to stop before replying.

Damnit ... this really isn't fair. Haven't we all suffered enough? Fucking cowardly warden .... he better get his karma!
 

"Hurt me, huh? Funny, I feel right as rain, hahahah." Armstrong laughed as the attack went through...And shocked Yuna with a painful current. Something that made his opponent understandably falter. "Tch, all talk...Well then, since it's my turn, surely you don't mind if I take it, right?" And he found the perfect card to play, grinning quite smugly. "Sorry, boy, but with this monsters with 1500 or more ATK are forbidden from attacking. Of course....I do have to pay 100 Life every turn....Surely you can figure out what that means, yes?"

He then would show a monster card, "I then summon Chain Coil in attack position, and activate its effect! Once a turn, I can select a 'Chain' monster I control and raise its ATK and DEF by 300! And naturally, I choose Chain Coil itself! Which means your shitty little captains are too weak to destroy it, and your crappy steamroller scrap heap can't attack it either! Too bad, so sad...I'll then set one card face-down and end my turn!"

At least with this, he could buy himself a few turns before he could get his field set up...At least, that was what he was sure of.

However, a certain group was already busy on their own work. "Oi, Tobi...See anything yet?" Kohei asked, the scrawny other male typing furiously and trying all sorts of different prompts and execute commands. "No, no, no...Nothing...Wait, wait! What'd you do there? I had it!" Tobi replied, eyes glued to the screen; Koehi made one last adjustment and soon Tobi was looking right at the Warden's decklist. Including where the position of each card was in the deck; holy shit, this guy was about to unleash hell. "Oh man...Kohei, what should we do?!" Tobi asked excitedly, fingers just waiting to push whatever buttons he needed.

Kohei just grinned, "Hmm...He's running a burn and mill Lock deck. How much can you move without him noticing?" Tobi smiled too, "As much as you need!" Kohei just laughed, "Alright...Send all his Poison Chain, Paralyze Chain, and Chain Destructions to the bottom....And put Gravekeeper's Familiar down there too, if you can." The seemingly genius young man snickered, "One royal screw-over, coming right up!" And his fingers seemed to move fast as lightning...Unseen to the Warden, his deck being reassembled.

"Now, the piece de resistance....Need just one last touch, Tobi, then we can make it happen...Is it transmitted?" Kohei said, disappearing back down after Tobi confirmed with a nod...Moments later, the Warden Yusei and all others in the arena would see the lights go out for a second or two before coming back on, the Warden's deck shuffling itself without him seeming to notice.

"The fucking hell...Piece of shit wiring" Armstrong grumbled, shouting at Yusei as he would turn his attention back to him "Well maggot, you gonna take your turn or what?"

All of this still being played through the loudspeakers, Kohei and his team laughing with the former thinking "Yusei...We've done what we could do. Now bring it home!"


Raiko seemed to fight it, truly he did...And Hotsuma even heard his cries. "Sosuke...Don't! Whatever this is, I don't want this!" the ex-Disciple pleaded, Hotsuma laughing sinisterly "Should have thought of that before double-crossing me, asshole...Now, submit!" Raiko would give one last cry of anguish out loud before falling silent, his head limping forward. "Now then...What are you going to do?" the Fiend asked commandingly, Raiko lifting his head up and replying flatly, "Liberate the Facility....Liberate Miyamoto Oboro...Serve the Lord."

Again, the lord comment...He wasn't trying to make them his slaves, just work to get every single cell door open before Goodwin would find out. "Ahem....Might be something I might have done. They view us as their true master; mayhaps my influence was a bit TOO strong for their weak minds." he then commented, Hotsuma letting out a 'Tch' and replying "Bullshit...But whatever. We have what we need....Now the fun part."

He would then speak to Raiko, "You...Open the cell door, then each of you, go to a command center and do whatever you have to do to get each of the blocks open completely. Understood?!" And when this was met with an eerily unanimous 'Yes!', he would just smile and let Raiko do his thing...The giant metal door slowly swinging open as his former 'enemies' would turn to go on their assigned directives. "Hold on...You, redhead...You stay with me, just in case" he commanded, the guard almost instantly turning on her heel and standing right beside.

Aside from his temporary escort, he was left momentarily alone with his brother...Who he found strapped in and hooked up to all sorts of monitoring devices, eyes closed as he laid unconscious; Kiryu wasn't lying. His brother didn't look good, not at all. Something that made Hotsuma clench his fists; the hell did these bastards do to him?

"Nee-san..." he murmured, feeling a bit overwhelmed by this as he touched his brother's forehead...Even with his brother's deplorable state, it still felt surreal. Finally, his goal was realized! He would get his brother out, get him set up in the Tops somehow...Let him live in luxury. And maybe...Once shit settled down in Satellite, he'd come over too. And it seemed his touch did rouse his elder brother from slumber, his eyes parting to reveal deep-green irises. "Ugh....H-Hotsuma? Is that...Is that really you?" Miyamoto asked, seeing his younger brother for the first time in years, Hotsuma himself starting to tear, "Yes...It's me, bro...Don't worry, we're going to get you out. Get you to a real doctor..." He couldn't even finish his sentence he was so damn happy, leaning down and hugging him; the joy of even seeing him too much to bear almost.

Standing up, he then said to the person who was with him, "Hey you...Go find a doctor to help me get him ready for transport." The guard nodded in the affirmative and quickly left, leaving Hotsuma alone again with his bed-ridden sibling, "Don't worry, Miyamoto...Once the doc gets here, you're leaving with me. I made a promise, remember?" At this Miyamoto just smiled weakly, "Yeah...Yeah I do...But forgive me if I seem surprised that you actually were able to get here...How?" Hotsuma just shook his head, "Don't worry about that; once we're out of here, I'll tell you everything....I promise."



Kiryu just sat there, keeping his hand on Fayth's shoulder and applying just a little bit of extra pressure. Not enough to hurt, but more to let her know that he wasn't leaving her behind.

Far from it...She was integral to what he had in store for Yusei. "Man, you'd think with how the Warden talks, he's all but won this match. So far, the loser hasn't even touched Yusei's Life yet...He better step it up if he doesn't want to turn into this place's laughing stock."
 

Yusei frowned. A stall deck? Was that really what the Warden had? That alone felt like an insult. Dueling was about giving it your all; or it was supposed to be. This ... was the exact opposite. Well ... any chance of seeing even a slither of redemption from Armstrong was officially gone now. Between all he'd done to Yuna and seeing his true self reflected in his deck ... he knew what had to be done. Step one, though, came in the form of winning, as step two was something that normally he wouldn't resort to. Mainly because it would be a severe rule violation. But the hell with it; this was a mandatory thing. Thus, even though Yusei wasn't typically fond of defying authority, he could make exceptions.

That Messenger of the Peace ... it would have to be he first thing he'd need to get rid of.

"Draw ... "

Before he could say anymore, though, the lights went out. His had tilted. Blackouts could be common but ... this felt like it was more than a simple coincidence.

His head shook. That didn't matter. Right now, there was something more important to tend to; Yuna and ending the duel. For her sake, as well as the other inmates.

"I activate Tuning. It allows me to get a Synchron monster to my hand. In exchange, I send the top card of my deck to my graveyard. I'll choose Junk Synchron and summon it. Turn end."

Goddamnit! Yuna angrily hissed, barely comprehending the duel. But enough to understand Yusei was in as much of a bind as she literally was. Tired ... that was the best way to describe how she felt. It likely was just actual fatigue. Still ... in case her body was threatening to stay asleep, she took her own precautions. She pressed tightly ino her lower lip, panting and yelping lowly as blood began to trickle down.

Fuck me some days; preferably the better and much more pleasurable way, thanks. Ugggh. I ... hope Hotsuma ... is doing so much better than me. Holy fucking shit ....
The squeeze didn't go unnoticed. Granted Fayth did lean back to give him easier access. But for a few seconds, her 'fight or flight' instinct kicked in, with the latter almost activating. In the end, she shoved both aside. She'd been with him .. what? Two? Three days? So he was either a really good actor or ... maybe he was in his forced state? Like Sosuke had been?

Whatever the case, I haven't really been sensing anything off from him recently.

For now, that was good enough.

"True, he does need to step up. At the same time, what he's said so far is also correct. Yusei's limited on what he can do."

Much like we are by being kept locked here ...

That was slowly beginning to drive her the maddest at that moment. One of the few people she could sincerely look at as a friend was in real trouble. If that wasn't frustrating enough, her other comrade was the one out there dueling. And she could do, once again, absolutely nothing. Then again ... even if she were free, what could be done? Her head snuck a sideways glance at the mark upon her right shoulder. It'd activated only when she was in really dire situations, as far as she'd noted.

So ... even that is out of the question as something to assist. I'd probably need whatever Yuna has, power-wise.

Fayth grimaced, hating the feeling and sensation of powerlessness. But for now, that plus Kiryu would have to do in terms of keeping her company. She quietly pulled her knees up against her chest, laying her head down and listening to the ongoing duel. Please, Yusei ... figure something out. Please win ...
 

Armstrong sneered as Yusei only added a Tuner monster to his hand, laughing as he then activated Safe Zone on the boy's turn. With this, he could continually power-up his monsters. And with this set cards, the kid stood no chance of attacking.

"My turn...Draw!"

And with that, he would go into his Standby Phase...Something Tobi noted. "Me thinks the Warden's feeling greedy...And doesn't feel like paying those Life Points." the tech chuckled, tapping three keys and executing the command.

"I choose to..."

However, he would then see that his card image shattered, along with his Disk prompting him to send Messenger of Peace to the Graveyard for not paying the cost. "The hell...I was going to pay that cost! Damned machine! Fine, I don't pay the cost! Don't need that shit anyway, not with this! I summon Chain Snake, and switch my Coil to defense mode!"

He then pointed to Yusei's Road Synchron, "I activate Chain Snake's effect! I can equip it to a monster you control, and when it's destroyed, you send cards equal to that monster's Level!" The animation would then show his chain-link serpent binding itself to the giant steam-roller like machine, and if he noticed, its ATK would be halved. "Oh...And your shitty little Tuner also loses 800 from both its attacking and defending strength. So go ahead, punk, make your move! Turn end!"


Hotsuma just waited...And waited. "Ugh...What's taking her so long?" the Disciples' leader groaned; honestly, he was too eager to start raising hell so that he could use the chaos to get them all out of here. "Hotsuma...I still don't understand...Why would you..." he then heard his elder brother mutter, to which Hotsuma smiled and poked his nose, "Because, stupid...You're family. I don't let family rot in prison, especially not for actually wanting a better life than in this place." While Hotsuma had long since accepted the Satellite as his home...Part of him wondered from time to time what life would be like in the Tops.

No...He'd become blind like everyone else; maybe not right away, but he would likely forget what living here was like. What the commoners had to go through every day, trying to just live by the skin of their teeth. Doing menial jobs or having to join a Duel Gang just to get enough money to put food on the table.

Eventually, the guard would come back...With a middle-aged woman in tow. "So...You're the infamous Fiend. Hmph...Who'd have figured you gave a damn about someone other than yourself?" she spoke, clearly displeased with having to deal with him. "Stow it and let's just cut to the chase...Can we move him or not?" Hotsuma snarked back, Miyamoto groaning with a weak smile "Oi...Hotsuma. I know you want me out of here, but come on, you were raised better than that." This definitely made Hotsuma wince; to think his elder brother was still able to sass him even when laid up like this. "Tch...You're just lucky you're blood, otherwise I might punch you...Jerk." Hotsuma replied teasingly, turning to the doctor, "Ok...Look, I'm sorry...But even you have to admit, he doesn't belong here...Is there anything I need to do to get him out?"

The doctor could only push up her glasses, "Well...Seeing as I have a guard that for whatever reason is helping you, and no one else is coming...Not much choice is there? Plus...You should be thankful I agree; this place may be called the Facility, but its medical ones are ridiculously lacking. If you do plan to move him, this bed can fold into a more compact gurney to carry him out; his condition isn't the most stable and too much jostling about could be detrimental to his health."

Well...Not that Hotsuma expected much less, but that was still problematic. "Ok...Anything else I should know?" At this she could only smirk, "Yes...We'll need to make sure his IVs are restocked. And...You'll be taking me with you,; if I'm going to discharge him, I'll need to be nearby to make sure you don't fumble anything." At this Hotsuma raised a brow, but the doctor gave a small laugh, "Consider this my termination notice...I know something's about to go up in here, so you'll have to forgive me if I don't plan on sticking around." This earned a little smile from the Fiend, who just replied, "The more the merrier...And you're right, things are about to get loud in here...How long do you need?"

The doctor wouldn't reply, only going over to a series of medical cabinets and opening it, "Thankfully, I'm one of the chief medical staff here...And I've been in contact with this man for some time." Hotsuma then asked, "So...Guess I have you to thank for the fact that he's as well as he is...So yeah...Thanks, Doctor...?" The woman just shook her head, "Call me Mei...And stop gawking; if you want him out, help me get these supplies ready. Should take all of five minutes to get him prepped."



Kiryu just laughed as he heard the Warden curse, "Well now...Karma's finally kicking in, eh, Fayth? Guess there is a God...And he or she's feeling like a trickster, screwing with his Duel Disk like that." At this he couldn't help laughing, "Oh man, I wish I was there to see it...He's about to catch a serious ass-whooping I can feel it!"
 

Well ... this deck really was beginning to get very annoying. There seemed to be one primary saving grace, and it came in the fact that Armstrong appeared to lack any heavy-duty attack monsters. But if that was the only downside ... Yusei was going to be in a lot of trouble. Especially if he couldn't figure out a way to get rid of that Messenger of the Peace card. His eyes narrowed ... almost as if the simple stare could make it go away. No such luck, of course. So, instead, his eyes went over to Yuna.

... Keep hanging in there.

A weak chuckle echoed in his head as Yuna gently replied, Silly, I'm not dying. May feel like it a bit, but that's not literally what's happening. I ... just can't move too well. Some sorta numbing or relaxing agent. I don't know; not an actual doctor. And the ones in the infirmary all but fucked me over.

Yusei nodded, sighing as he watched the Warden take his turn.

His eyes blinked ... then widened as the Messenger of the Peace card ... vanished?

Well, well ... that was an interesting but unexpected development. He couldn't help but smirk; however that'd happened, it could very well be the opening Yusei had been waiting for. "Here I go! Draw!" Perfect. With that annoying magic card out of the way, this could definitely work. His mind rapidly worked as he connected the dots courtesy of his Clear Mind ability. He saw the perfect plan, one that would lead to a major step in turning this duel around.

... Forgive me. This is likely gonna hurt.

When Yusei saw the sly smirk Yuna gave him as a response, he nodded and continued with his turn. "I summon Synchron Explorer. He plus one of my Marauding Captains and Junk Synchron will move forth and call out one of our allies!"

His smile widened as the familiar symbols indicating he was performing a Synchro Summon appeared.

"Level eight, Junk Destroyer! Synchro Summon! And now, his effect activates! For each non-Tuner monster I used to summon him, I can destroy that amount of cards. Since two were used, I'll select .... your Iron Chain Snake and your Safe Spot." And once the latter vanished, Armstrong would find he was wide open.

Yusei took a deep breath. He didn't like this .... but he'd made his 'no more holding back' promise to Yuna. And he would have to go through with it to keep the one he'd made since turn one. "Marauding Captain! Junk Destroyer! Road Synchron! Direct attack!"

Yuna smirked, hissing and whimpering as Armstong's life plummeted from 6800 to 1300 in one attack. "You ... may be physically hurting me, Warden. But I'd like to guess ... your pride must really ... be killing you ... about now, huh? Hehehe ... "

"Turn end!" Yusei declared.
Fayth felt torn. Her prayers were getting answered, it seemed. Still, this would all be much more satisfying if Yuna hadn't been forced to take the hits. "Good," she replied, grinning as Fayth heard Kiryu was correct. Karma had definitely appeared, and was all but viciously attacking Armstrong. Screw biting him in the ass; oh no. This was much, much worse from what she could hear.

"I honestly haven't cared about losing my sight many times. But this would also be one moment I wouldn't mind being able to fully see play out, too. I'm sure we could get a better visual when we get outta here, though."
 
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