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


Both Ling and Eikichi let out their own breaths. Apparently, they'd subconsciously held it while Takeshi attacked Shivini with two ridiculously strong monsters. That would have easily been the worst time for something to happen .. which made them relieved nothing had happened.

Well ... nothing including blood, at any rate.

Ling flushed, while Eikichi averted his gaze slightly.

... Bigger than I realized .... he thought, trying to dismiss the thoughts and images of Shivini's chest away. "Neither did I, Judai. Ugh. I should have fought harder with her to wear a more ... typical outfit though."

Unfortunately, Shivini had - in her own ways - 'blackmailed' Eikichi. More like insisted if he really wanted to apologize for his outburst the previous day, he'd shut up and let her go out in whatever she wanted. Now .... he was starting to regret caving in. At least slightly. He'd have to have another talk with her about that. Whenever this duel ended, more likely than not.

Thank you, my life-saver, Shivini inwardly mused, grinning as she pushed down on her duel disk.

"Silly! If I didn't have any way to stop you, I wouldn't have set something! Trap Card, Open! Divided Wall!"

Holy fuck. I ... actually have a chance!

Her heart pounded wildly at the thought. This was both the hardest yet closest she found herself to winning a victory, let alone against Takeshi of all people. "I never make bluffs. You should have known that much. Draw! I summon a second Amazoness Archer to the field. One will attack your War God."

Another arrow flew across the stage, landing in the weakened monster's midsection before making its image break and vanish.

"And now ... direct attack!"

Her eyes widened in horror. There it was again ... that odd gravity surrounding her and Takeshi. "No, wait! DON'T!"

Too late. The arrow had already been loosened ... and flew right for Takeshi.

Shivini whimpered, closing her eyes again. "I'm so sorry," she whispered, falling to her knees. Why? Why had this happened again? Either way, she couldn't look. She didn't want to see if the Archer's aim was too true. Or even if it'd risk aggravating his already badly wounded abdomen ... that wasn't much more merciful than missing any of his organs. Not when one took into account all the blood loss he suffered earlier.

"I can't ... not again. No ... "

One shoulder pressed against her ear, muffling the sound of Takeshi's disk registering his life plummeting. A shaky hand began moving, aiming tot land on top of her deck. Sure, she'd promised not to quit. But that had been before all of this happened. And now ... whatever the fuck this was had acted up again, she really didn't know if she could do this. Plus, with her having drawn zero spells or traps yet again, there was a very low chance of her coming out on top in this duel.

He'd all but won, as far as she was concerned.

.... And yet, it was the vow she made that kept her hand from landing on her deck. Instead, her eyes slowly opened as she looked fearfully to the other Disciple. It'd probably be against her better judgement, but she at least made sure the damage wasn't as bad as it could have been.

" .... Turn end ... "

Though they'd mainly been uttered instinctively, they had been said nonetheless. Enough that, should he be well enough, Takeshi would get the green light to continue.

Eikichi, meanwhile, grit his teeth. "I thought they fixed this!" he hissed angrily, his fists clenching tightly. And when Shivini actually chose to continue rather than quit - something he wouldn't have blamed her for deciding - his eyes widened. But ... why?

If this bug or whatever was still active .... she'd get hurt too. Wouldn't she? His ankles tensed. At this rate, the best he could do was be prepared for the worst. Push was probably going to come to shove ... and if - or when - it did, he'd be there to help her out. With Takeshi already injured as it was, the unfortunate truth was he doubted the other Disciple would have an overly easy time getting across to assist. So it'd be up to him ... and maybe ...

" ... Ling? Judai? If this next turn goes as bad as I'm fearing, come help me. Please."

"Of course. I'll .... do what I can." The hesitation hinted Ling had no idea - not off the top of her head - what she could even do. But she definitely wouldn't just watch. That was a 'hell no' in her books.
 

Takeshi just laughed as she replied to him, "Well, can't blame a guy for being hopeful right?" Though it was true; he should have expected her to have put something down with her monster in Attack mode like that. It was a fairly obvious bait and he still went for it. Still, at the very least, he hadn't been hurt by this. Yeah, it all seemed like it was over now...At least, from a life-threatening point of view. And with her at 300, all he would need was one solid hit in and this match would be his.

However...That became quite the grim unlikelihood when she summoned yet another Amazoness Archer. "Ah, hell..." he whined, seeing his War God get destroyed and his life down to 2100, only a small bit of wind to accompany his monster's destruction. And when she launched the next attack, the dangerous feel of that alien gravity came right back. Just seconds after the arrow had been fired; Takeshi's body flooded itself with adrenaline, making time appear to slow down as he tried to take a step to the right.

He barely succeeded in doing so, the rapid projectile piercing his left shoulder and making him cry out again in pain before the arrow disappeared; a few thin streaks of red ran down his arm, himself clutching the new wound on his body. The medics were quick to come out again, but Takeshi held up a hand, "T-trust me! I'm fine!" However, the medics didn't listen, "No, you're not! This Duel is over!" Takeshi then gave one of them trying to escort him off the stage a hard shove, making him stumble back and a loud collective gasp to come from the audience.

"Listen...Assholes. I said, I'm good! Once this match is over, then you can play doctor all you like! But right now...You heard Shivini, she wants to continue. And as a Duelist, I'm obliged to do so as well!"

Judai shook his head, "Takeshi, you don't need to go through with this!" But it seemed Takeshi was not going to listen; no, the last thing he would do - especially to preserve his and Shivini's pride as Duelists and as members of Yuna and Hotsuma's circles - was to give in.

"My deck...Please, answer me..."

That was the last thought he said before he would verbally declare, "My turn! Draw!" And when he looked at the card, he let a tired smile cross his face, eyes focusing on his opponent. "Shivini...I hope this doesn't hurt too bad...Alright? I activate the Field Magic, Shiranui Style - Reincarnation Formation!" And after some effort to slide it into his Field Card slot, their war zone was now a giant ritualistic circle, spectral threads of energy rising into the air and wisping about. "And since...I control no monsters...I can discard one Undead monster from my hand to the Graveyard, then target one Undead with 0 DEF in there and Special Summon it. I send Mezuki....And revive War God - Shiranui."

And as the animation played out of Mezuki's soul entering the center of the diagram, the entire ritual sight became alight in energy...His Synchro rising up in the torrent of luminous radiance before standing before Shivini once more. "War God...Attack her Amazoness Archer...End this Duel." he weakly declared, his monster rising an immolated blade up high before striking it down, shattering both her monsters and bringing her Life down to zero...

Something he didn't see because moments before it happened, he would feel super light-headed all of a sudden...And fall backwards, right into the outstretched arms of one of the medics, another pair rushing to deal with Shivini's injuries in a rather rapid fashion.
 

"Hopeful? No. Reckless? Yep. Especially when you really should have known better."

Those would be the more cheerful words Takeshi would hear from Shivini, before her voice quaked once again. "This isn't what I wanted!" she repeated, covering her face with her hands. Blood ... she'd drawn it yet again. And from a friend, no less! This would never go away! Not for a while, anyway. No, this would haunt her nights for quite some time. There was no doubt in her mind this was the worst duel she'd ever been. Now it was less because of whom her opponent had been and more from the odd effects that came from nowhere. Were it not for the fact even the techs acknowledged something very wrong had happened, this would look really horrible for Shivini.

.... Finlay. He wasn't here still watching, was he?

Part of her really hoped not. This would make her look much worse than brutal, though that was one adjective to use.

A weak smile spread over Shivini's face. Those words ... Takeshi wishing this wouldn't hurt too bad .... they all but confirmed her thoughts had been right. He drew something to help him secure a win. "Honestly? You're ... overdue for a hit against me. I'll ... endure."

That made Eikichi's eyes narrow; not annoyed at Takeshi, but whatever had tampered with their duel. This was bullshit. Neither of them should have resigned themselves tot accepting unnecessary, literal pain.

If you're going to accept whatever happens, you damn well better pull through like him.

His head turned as a hand gently landed on his shoulder. A look behind would reveal Ling, who then nodded to the stage where quit ea few medics were waiting. "Let them work. They're going to need room. You know how they often say to give people room and such? Same concept will probably apply. Trust them to help out."

" .... " A frustrated sigh finally passed his lips as he reluctantly nodded. "Fine. But if it starts taking a turn for the worse, I'm going up."

Oh god! My arm! It's going to cut it off!

That was what it looked like, anyway. With where the dual axes were even after cleaving through her Archers, it continued swinging through the air, going for her flesh. If it had to land .... she wasn't going to risk losing a whole limb. Fuck no. Her own adrenaline shot through Shivini as she hastily - albeit shakily - stood up. Her head tossed back as she screamed, a X-shaped wound appearing on her own midsection. Barely missing what was left of her top, going below her breasts and focusing more on her sternum area.

The Amazoness user fell back onto her knees, finally collapsing onto her back. Her body shuddered and shook .. and the doctors would easily recognize she'd gone almost immediately into shock.
"Well? What's the verdict?"

The impatient question came from Fuyu herself. Fayth, meanwhile, was sitting nearby. With the past almost week having passed, there was finally a chance for Fuyu to have recovered. Maybe not perfectly, but enough to either walk on her own or stop using the sling. Both in the best case scenario, but .... Fayth wasn't counting on that. Not out of spite, but rather, whom had stabbed her comrade.

"What do you want?" The nurse asked, "The good news or bad?"

Fuyu sighed, throwing her good arm up in frustration. "... Fuck it. Let's get bad out of the way."

"Okay. Then your arm needs a bit more time to heal."

Oddly, Fuyu's face lit up. If there truly was good news .... then .... it led to one immediate assumption. "So, I don't need the wheelchair?" she asked eagerly.

"No. However, I do recommend a crutch. Just in case."

" .... Will support work? Like if I leaned on Fayth?"

"Huh? Me?"

"Fayth, understand. I'm sick of these medical devices. You would be too; trust me."

That .... was very likely true. Even though Fayth didn't have much experience with all Fuyu had endured, she couldn't imagine being much happier herself. She was already blind, and that was annoying enough. If she'd been crippled as well, even if only temporarily?

Yeah. That made her grimace.

"Okay. Fair point. I wouldn't mind, Miss. Really."

The medic sighed. She could tell she wasn't going to convince Fuyu to use the actual, medical crutch. "Alright. But I sincerely hope you're not just saying you'll use support to get me to leave. Just ... take it easy, okay?"

"I will, I will," Fuyu muttered under her breath.

After what felt like forever, the doctor finished gathering her things and left. Fuyu elicited a sigh of relief, smiled, and turned to face Fayth. "So ... let's go out for a bit. I will be cautious, don't worry."

" .... Okay. Where to though?"

"There's supposed to be a mini-tournament going on. It's not too far away, luckily. We should be able to arrive in time to see some of it."

"Okay. Lemme go change real fast."

Within five minutes, Fayth arrived in a new outfit. "I don't wanna hear any teases, or I may decide to drop you."

" ... You wouldn't."

"Try me."

Fuyu held her hands beside he head, smirking as she chose tto leave her be ... for now. "Okay, okay. Fine."

"Besides, between the two of us, I think you need a guy more than me. Maybe they can help you cool down a bit."

... Okay. Even Fuyu couldn't help but chortle. "Did you include that pun on purpose? That was really fucking good, regardless."

"Actually," Fayth said, wincing lightly as she felt Fuyu wrap an arm around her shoulder, "I did. Goddamn, you're heavy."

"Not that much! Only by ten to twenty or so pounds!"

The two eventually chuckled, walking cautiously out of the studio and into the streets of the Tops.
 

Once the doctors assessed Shivini and Takeshi's respective situations, two ambulances were called; Shivini would be administered an oxygen mask to help cope with shock, her wounds patched up in a dressing to help stem blood loss and her legs elevated to keep her blood pressure up. It would be a hasty rescue, but thankfully one perk of being in the Tops was speedy response times by emergency personnel. And within a matter of minutes, both the Satellite-born Duelists would be carted off in gurneys, Eikichi riding with Shivini and Judai tasked with heading back to Yomi to let everyone know what was going on.

Indeed, it was a grim situation; with both of the Duelists now out of commission, continuing would simply be too dangerous. "Folks, hopefully you can understand, but because of the dangers of what just transpired, the final Duel between Ling and Takeshi will be postponed until he is medically cleared to resume." MC would then come on over the microphone, something that would be broadcast to every screen around the Tops that was tuned into this Duel.

And the only thing that could be said was: This year had not been kind to the Dueling Committee or the tournaments it was holding. From tampering to abduction and now to grave personal injury, it was going to be quite the blow to the reputation of the Director and the respective Committee members. But...If there was one thing that Goodwin was capable of, much like Divine: It was allaying the fears of the general populace. This would be chalked up to a bad case of malfunctions in the Solid Vision system...And it would likely cost some people their jobs, as both the designers and operators of this system would be to blame.

Fair? Unlikely considering all the diagnostics had come back as normal, but at this point it was a two-front battle between administering timely medical care and helping Goodwin's organization to save face. Something that was so direly needed.


Meanwhile, outside of the Dueling Stadium, the crowds that didn't get in were in shock at what happened; and much like the vultures they were, the media was all over it. This was a perfect story to cover, and already reporters from various news agencies were blotting the feeds of various televisions in store windows about the failures of the Solid Vision system and how two Duelists were injured during a match. Something that was sure to make headlines tomorrow.

Something that Demak couldn't care less about; he only wished some of the Signers had gotten involved, that would make their search even easier. Get them while they were weak, helpless even. But alas...He was certain the involved parties were no one of any particular concern, which meant he could continue his search for Fayth unabated. He remembered exactly what Kiryu had said she'd look like. The distinguishing feature of wearing a blindfold, along with being in the company of a woman with white hair.

He had been searching high and low these past few days, scouring the deepest areas...But now had taken to the streets, his Dark Signer regalia hidden and looking very much like a normal human male. The marks that streaked over his eyes were gone, as were the robes that marked him for who he was, dressed in plain clothes consisting of a yellow shirt and white shorts. And it was here that would he finally catch his big break, seeing someone matching their newest comrade's description.

And making his way closer, he would also notice her comrade...Again, a perfect match; he looked down at the thin band around his wrist, which if anyone looked more closely would have a few too many blinking 'lights' on its length. "Lord Rutger...I've found her..." he then spoke very lowly into it; on the other end, Rutger smiled and said, "Excellent...Get close enough and let my little friend hitch a ride. It will be weightless, so she shouldn't be able to detect its presence."

Cutting the connection, Demak would walk forward...All he needed to do was get close, and the spider on his wrist would hide itself in an inconspicuous area on her attire. And only when Rutger would see where she resided would it disembark from her. And after a slight bump on Fayth's exposed shoulder - easier to hide since there were more than a few people on the sidewalk where they were headed, as well as letting him see the Mark on her - he would just say "Sorry, miss." and walked right past her.
 

Eikichi felt ... torn. At a loss. This day had started out decently enough. And now ... it had turned into another nightmare. This was just as bad as being imprisoned in Arcadia ... probably a bit worse. If only because the damage he witnessed was far more lethal. Granted, he didn't dare forgive Divine for shocking Hajime at all. But at least he hadn't been at risk for dying. Shivini and Takeshi though .... they had to face that very grim risk. His fists clenched as he forced himself to stay back, watching and ensuring the medical staff were able to tend to his friends fine.

"Judai," he finally replied, turning to face the brunette. A shaky hand reached down, pulling the paper Ling had given him. "I can't afford to not go. I'm the closest to any blood siblings they have. Please ... give this to Yamichi for me. I'll trust him to look at it when he feels ready. Do include this is from Ling."

He had little doubts everyone else would be in a cheerful mood to hear two more had been administered into the hospital. Even less so given they would be in ICU, just like Hotsuma.

We're gonna need a fuck of a morale boost .... Eikichi thought, trying to come up with ideas on how that could be achieved. The money would help, but not completely. There would need to be something more. Finding their lost leaders?

Probably ... maybe. Fuck if he knew. This as one of the few times the Spellcaster wasn't sure or able to come up with a completely certain answer.

Eikichi sighed, sitting beside the now unconscious Shivini, having passed out likely from the blood loss. Reaching down, he gently grasped one of her hands. "Hang in there," he pleaded, his voice quaking in fear and anger for his comrades. "I'm gonna stay with you both. I promise. Don't you dare leave me .... neither of you."
"Hey, hey, wait! Stop, Fayth!"

"Huh?"

The two would hear the MC repeating the announcement. Both women's mouths fell agape, shocked and horrified. Two duelists had been critically injured.

"But .... how?" Fayth murmured, "The disks here aren't like -- "

Fuyu quickly placed a hand over her mouth, giving a nod to hint she understood where her thoughts had been going. "Not here! Don't speak of it in public! Anyway, we need to get back. Now. Reiji needs to know this. If that happened ... I get the uneasy feeling things are getting wore over there."

Nodding upon hearing the Ice Barrier user's suggestion, the two would turn around and begin to walk back home.

"Ahhh! Oh god! I'm so sorry!"

Fayth politely bowed her head. Fuyu would at least wait to be out of earshot before scoffing, "You shouldn't be the one to apologize," she muttered. "He still has his sight."

Even though the spider likely stood out - particularly given Fayth's top didn't have sleeves - the two were so focused on returning that it went unnoticed. Even as it jumped off. The arachnid thus completed its mission while Fayth and Fuyu began to work on their own. Fuyu's disk would be the one they used to call Reiji. And once he appeared, she looked at him with one of the most stern looks on her face. "Reiji. What's going on over there? Have things gotten worse? We just received word two duelists were injured while participating in a tournament. But apparently, the damage was ... as if they were home. In our dimension so .... everything was apparently amplified. How though? Any theories or explanations for this?"
 

Needless to say, Judai complied...But once he got back to the secret wharf where their boat was tied, he made a shocking revelation: He had no clue how to drive this boat! A bead of sweat ran down his neck; damn it all, now how was he supposed to get back? "Well...This is a problem." he muttered defeatedly; he could go through the pipeline, but with the fact that Sector was apparently watching it even more closely than ever, he couldn't risk being captured by them.

"Eh-hem...Judai, you do realize I can help with this endeavor, yes? All you need to let me do is assume control...I'll get us back."

And much as he didn't like Yubel doing just like that...Unfortunately, he was kind of stuck. So, after undoing the anchor rope and getting to the pilot's seat, he closed his eyes...Soon opening them to reveal dual-colored irises, Yubel powering up the boat and taking them back to the Satellite pier...

Just like a couple of others, he was slowly starting to hate this dimension...Easily worse than Duel Academy had ever been, even with all the attacks.


The spider, meanwhile, had stayed perfectly still while Fayth would go about her business. "Excellent, Demak. Your assignment is complete. I can carry on from here...Standby for further instructions." he would then say to his accomplice, Demak acknowledging the order and after disappearing into a side alley...Changed back to his original appearance, pulling the hood over his face before seeming to jump with inhuman ability to the top of the roof ahead of him, bounding away to an area where he could more effectively hide. Where he would indeed await his leader's instructions.

Reiji, however, was more than surprised to have been contacted by Fayth and Fuyu; answering the call, he paused as they would explain the situation. About how Duelists there were severely hurt during the course of a Duel. "Hmm...As far as I know, nothing's really changed. At least, not from a battle perspective; in fact, in that respect it's been eerily quiet. But...If it's as you say, then I'm afraid the only plausible explanation is that the dimensions are starting to overlap even more so, and it's somehow bleeding artifacts of our Real Solid Vision system into theirs."

The young genius could only curse his father, and it was here that he said, "I appreciate the update Fuyu; I'll look into this immediately. But I must leave...Keep up the good work." And with that, he would terminate the call on his end. He would have to call upon Tsukikage again, to have him scout Leo's fortified Academy and see if the activity there had changed at all.

Rutger caught all of this; their Dimension? Well, it was no wonder this Signer wasn't found. If the Crimson Dragon was going so far as to mark others from different dimensions...But then again, if Kiryu's statements held any water, it could very well be that this 'Fayth Milner' was in fact not the one intended for the Mark. Regardless, he would resign himself to idly observing her for now...See if she perhaps would be able to find any more of the Signers for them.



"Awww, do you really have to leave already? It was just getting fun!"

That was what Lua had said, apparently quite fond of the guy that had been living with them for the past few days. Not from a romantic standpoint or anything like that...But it wasn't like they had people from the Satellite visit them everyday. Plus, Yusei just seemed like such a cool dude that he didn't want the guy to leave.

"I should get going yeah; it's not that I don't appreciate your hospitality, but it really would be bad for you guys if I got caught in your apartment." Yusei clarified, Lua just nodding "Yeah, I get it...But hey, before you go!" And just like that, he took off again, Yusei not able to help a slight laugh from leaving him, looking to Luca and asking "He's an energetic one, isn't he?"

Moments later, Lua returned, wearing his Duel Disk on his arm...But seeming to try and hold it up with one hand. "We never had a Duel of our own! And don't worry, I promise to easy on ya!" he laughed, Yusei shaking his head "Sorry...But I really shouldn't." However, he did notice that Lua had to keep readjusting his Duel Disk every few seconds. Was it too big on him?

"Lua...Does your Disk not fit properly?" Yusei asked, Lua grinning, "Yeah, but I think it's because it's a standard one...Never had it properly fitted." But this would give Yusei an idea, giving the twins a smile "If it's not too much trouble, I can help them fit your arms better. That way you don't have to keep messing with it." This made Lua's eyes light up, "Really?! Awh, thanks! Can you do Lua's too?! She's got skinnier arms than me!"
 

Fuyu raised an eyebrow. If the battle situation hadn't gotten worse ... something had happened. And there was only one option coming to her mind that made any remote bit of sense, especially if the dimensions were indeed beginning to overlap.

"So ... has Leo found a way to speed things up? Is that what this implies?"

Hopefully, that was why he so hastily left; to check those possibilities and more.

"Thank you, Reiji. Understood. We'll ... keep you posted."

Begrudgingly, she allowed the contact to end, looking incredibly dissatisfied. This situation had left her with far more questions than answers. But ... it wasn't only her.

"So ... it's really happening, huh?" Fayth slowly asked.

"Slowly but surely, yes." There was a slight pause before Fuyu added, "In all honesty, Fayth, I'm not sure if this was something we could have completely stopped. Delayed, at best. But completely forced to end?" Her head shook from side to side, "Maybe if we'd been assigned to remain in the Pendulum Dimension. But not here."

Sensing her friend's distress, she placed a hand gently on her shoulder.

"You said it yourself ... you need to stay here, even if just for a bit longer. I'm gonna help ensure that doesn't become a problem."

Now it was Fayth's turn to raise an eyebrow. "What does that mean?"

"Well ... we can't keep asking Reiji for favors. I know he did one when your disk first broke with funds. So ... I'm gonna start job hunting, I suppose."

"But you don't have papers or anything to prove you're really from here!"

Fuyu merely smirked. "Have you forgotten I'm a hacker as well as an Ice Queen, my dear? I've got this. Don't worry. That's why I'm gonna get started now."
"I ... have to agree with Lua. It really has been nice with you around."

Unfortunately, the same fear even Luca had felt before taking him in was expressed by Yusei himself. He didn't want to get them in trouble for helping out someone who was still technically a wanted man.

"Welcome to my world, Yusei. He's like a non-stop ball of energy ... and yet. I kinda wish I had that attitude some days."

Being cursed and constantly frail really was something that, after quite a while, got very frustrating and annoying. She wasn't even a teenager yet, and already she was resigned to this sort of condition?!

Pushing the thoughts aside, she grinned as her brother returned.

"Careful with that thing. You know it doesn't fit properly." Even Luca's eyes couldn't help but shine as Yusei offered to adjust their disks. It remained as her brother spoke ... it just got accommodated by a very bright set of red tinges adorning her face.

"S-Skinny?!" she repeated, huffing slightly. "It's not like you're overly buff or anything yourself. You also have skinny arms too!"

Clearing her throat, she'd then turn her attention back to Yusei. "If you could do that much before leaving, it'd definitely be appreciated."
 

Judai was quick to return to Yomi, where he would still see others working hard to finish up the repairs from the breakout. There wasn't much left really, and a short trip later he would arrive back at Hajime's office...or rather Yuna's office, but with Hajime on temporary leader duty. And after the Demon Commander finished giving the bluenette a status report, Judai approached.

"Hey...Hajime...I'm sorry to have to tell you this...But let me finish..." he said, sensing the lieutenant's desire to demand to know what was going on. And Judai would tell him, about how Takeshi was in the final two but because of a malfunction with the Solid Vision system both he and Shivini were hospitalized. He assured the man that both would be alright, and that Eikichi had gone with them to ensure they would be alright.

"And so far...That's pretty much it. Eikicihi wanted me to come back here and tell you that. Oh..." And Judai would pause here and pull out the package Ling had wanted Yamichi to have. "This came for Yamichi, from Ling. Mind if I go give it to him? I don't know what it is, but I can't imagine it would be anything too harmful."



"I know that, sis! But that's just because I'm small for my age!" he replied, still wearing a dumb smile. But in any event, Yusei took both of their Disks and after using a tape measure to get their wrist measurements, went to work. He found it to be a simple fix: All he had to do was shorten the revolving clamp a little and add a new notch for the catch to hook onto. It was a job that took maybe ten minutes, fifteen if only because he wanted to make sure there would be no rough edges or anything like that.

"Here...Try them now." Yusei proferred, Lua slipping his on eagerly. "Hai-yah!" he yelled, giving a mimicking karate chop, swinging his arm wildly about but still maintaining distance from his sister. After a few minutes of animatedly trying everything he could to shake it off, he found that it didn't budge in the slightest. And yet...It didn't cut off his circulation. "Wow, you really are good, Yusei! Thanks!" he said, adding as he brought up the Disk before him, "Now come on, let's Duel! I want to see what someone from the Satellite is capable of!"

At Yusei just laughed, "Sorry, Lua...But I really should get going. Thank you again, for the hospitality. And Luca? Keep your brother out of trouble." And with that, he would hop on his Runner and take off from the pair's parents' garage, having used some of the tools to make some rudimentary repairs to his Runner. He would get a full opportunity to fix it up once he got back to the Satellite.

Unfortunately, that wasn't going to be possible; since he was almost instantly surrounded by Sector officers not five minutes after he left the twins' apartment. "Off the Wheeler, Fudo! Don't make this harder!" the officer to his immediate left said heatedly. And with every avenue of escape cut off, he could see no getting out of this, and after stopping, complied. At least he was by himself. However...What made this even stranger was the fact that a limousine pulled up behind the giant group. Yusei, having stepped off and removed his helmet, was more than curious as to who would be in this.
 

"Yeah, you are," Luca agreed, giggling at the way her brother set himself up to be teased. Sure, she was also small. But she hadn't been the one naive enough to admit it out loud. While Yusei worked first on her brother's disk, she hurried inside and grabbed her own, coming out a few minutes later with it in her hands.

Luca merely shook her head as Lua opted to test his newly modified disk out with a karate move of all things. "Sometimes," she murmured, smiling as she merely slid hers and lightly moved her arm. Testing it, seeing that it remained secured, yet wasn't too tight around her arm. "Wow, Yusei! You did a really good job! Thank you!"

Now, it truly was time to say good-bye. A sad sigh left her lips; it was a shame. Yusei had been great company. But ... he was right. "Take care, Yusei! Hehe, I'll definitely try to. That's not usually an easy task though. Come on, Lua. Let's go, alright?" She'd wave farewell once more before walking back inside their house, knowing - even if not happily - her brother would come in.
Hajime's heart almost immediately sank as Judai arrived ... without the others.

Aniki? Shivini and Takeshi? The hell happened now?!

His teeth latched onto his lower lip as he forced himself to stay seated. And, very begrudgingly, stay quiet. Hearing him out, even if it would contain some harsh truths, was the best thing for him to do right now. By the end of it all, he had an eyebrow raised, no doubt about the 'malfunction'.

You're sure this is a malfunction and not some crap Arcadia pulled? That's what it sounds like to me.

No, it wouldn't make sense to cause a public scene. But Divine was a hard man to read, and unless Judai had some proof to suggest otherwise, it was a possibility he couldn't ignore.

Heh. I shouldn't be too surprised Takeshi got through. His deck's ridiculously strong. I just .... fuck, Judai. I want us all to get a break. If I didn't know better, this is a curse from simply being born in the Satellite.

And, more so than ever, Yuna to return. How she did half of this shit was beyond him. He as barely keeping himself in a decent enough mindset to take charge.

Oh? From Ling, huh?

A ghost of a smirk crossed his face. He'd been fortunate enough to see that fight, and thus knew exactly who Judai was speaking of. He looked ... something in between ticked off but content. There were sets of good and bad news. And even with him trying to focus on the 'good' ... it was never that simple. The main saving grace was Eikichi would be with Shivini and Takeshi. Hopefully, he could help ensure nothing went wrong while they were at the hospital.

Alright. Thanks. I'll get this to Yamichi.

Hopefully that would be a start in making his mood better, even if only a small bit. Pushing himself out of the chair, he began walking towards what had more or less become Yamichi's "room". He knocked against the door frame, allowing himself to be seen, and waited for a reply.
Eikichi had arrived with the others - although both still unconscious - at the hospital. The mask on Shivini's face had appeared to help, but only to certain extents. Worse off, both still were suffering from the wounds they each received. It hadn't gone unnoticed both sets of gauze continued turning a very deep shade of red, having to be replaced more times than Eikichi wanted to take note of.

"So?" he asked one of the nurses, "What do they need? Procedures, stuff like that?"

"Stitches, a blood transfusion, and rest. Basically in that order. Do you know either of their blood types?"

"Only hers. B+. I have O+."

While walking by the numerous ICU rooms, one in particular had a very familiar face that Eikcihi mentally noted; Hotsuma. Good. He was here, and safe. The fact he was asleep and his heart monitor was still functioning implied as much.

"We can see about having the lab identifying Mr. Yamaguchi's blood type while giving them stitches."

And it would be when they arrived outside of an empty room that the nurse held a hand up. "At least for this first part, please wait outside. We'll come get you as soon as we're done."

" .... Fine. Then I'm gonna go visit another friend of mine. Hottsuma Oboro; if I'm not in the halls, I'll be in his room."

The nurse opened her mouth to protest, ending up eliciting a sigh as he stormed off. "Stubborn boy," she muttered, turning around. Fine. It was still visiting hours, to be fair. And at least she'd know where to find him. More importantly, she didn't have time to argue. She and the others had work to do, quite a bit of it.

The two patients would be given anesthesia - to help them remain unconscious - and thus make the stitching process easier. A bit of painkillers would be included in their IVs, but not nearly as large of a dose as Yuna had been forced to endure back when Armstrong still ran the Facility. Just enough to make waking up tolerable for them, rather than returning to a world of pain once more.

Eikichi, meanwhile, shakily sat down beside Hotsuma. "I doubt you can hear me," he said in a trembling voice, "But we really need you and Yuna back. Please get better soon. Where is she anyway? At least .... she is alive still. Isn't she?"
 

Yamichi still hadn't really moved from this room; while some could argue he was just doing everything he could to streamline everything Hajime would need to run this place as efficiently as possible, he was also trying to find ways to occupy his time. Mostly to just try and not think about the possibility that Hotsuma was dead.

He wanted to believe it...He wanted to believe what the Demon Commander had said. That Hotsuma was alive...But he couldn't help remembering that horrific chill through his whole body. Even worse that Yuna had caused it...Could he trust her again if she came back? Probably not right away...Maybe not even ever. Lying about her real name, that was forgivable...But killing someone she worked with? What did that say about their safety? Hotsuma was hot-headed, sure...And more often an idiot, but...That didn't deserve what she did to him!

"God damn it, Hotsuma...What did you do? Yuna wouldn't let Rose control her like...Not without good reason" he said, wiping away the tears that threatened to form up and fall down his thin cheeks. However, he heard a knock at the door and looked to see Hajime standing there. He pressed a buzzer, allowing the door to be unlocked as he wiped his eyes again with the sleeve of his shirt. "Hajime...Hey. What's going on? Everything alright?" he said, keeping his eyes focused on the screen; he couldn't let the bluenette see him right now. He was a mess...And it was clear he hadn't been eating properly, even with the meager food scraps that they managed to get together for the growing population in the new Yomi.


Yusei watched the limousine with continued interest; and his eyes widened when he saw a shorter-stature male dressed in a long wide-necked coat and possessing identical lines that ran down over both his eyes. And he honestly had no idea who this was; granted, he had no real idea how many worked for Goodwin. Only that it must be a sizable number.

"Ah...Yusei Fudo. Pleased to make your acquaintance. I am Yeager, Vice Director of Neo Domino City. Jack's told me quite a bit about you...And seeing as you're currently a fugitive on the run, it would be so easy for me to arrest you right now. Stupidly easy, really." the clown-faced man started off, a sinister grin crossing his face. Yusei narrowed his eyes, "If you'd be so kind, can you please state what it is you want?"

Yeager would then clap his hands thrice, "Very good, down to business. I like your style. Director Goodwin has extended an invitation for you to join the Fortune Cup as a special guest." At this, Yusei just crossed his arms, "Why would he want me there? That makes no sense." Yeager just laughed, raising his right index finger "Oh come now, a Duelist of your caliber should be eager to test their mettle. It's the biggest tournament currently in progress of being planned...So Goodwin's seeking the best talent. Besides, who wouldn't want the man who defeated Warden Armstrong in a Duel?"

Yusei's fists clenched, something that made the shorter man just chuckle, "Of course, that's not the only reason." Reaching into a back pocket, he then pulled out a photo...Something that made Yusei freeze in place. "I take it from your expression that you know them? Be an awful shame if something happened, wouldn't it? Hehehe." Yeager sneered, Yusei grimacing, "Leave them out of this. They have nothing to do with this."

Yeager just waved his finger again, his eyes closed as he replied "Ah-ah-ah, temper...All you have to do is agree to participate, and then your friends will be turned away unharmed." He then opened his bright-blue orbs once more, a devilish smirk on his face as he then asked, "So what do you say...Yusei? Do you accept our Director's hospitality?"

Yusei's hands clenched even harder; damn it all, he thought. This brought back bad memories of Jack holding Rally hostage. "Fine...I'll participate." he grumbled, taking a breath afterward. Yeager just clapped his hands together, "Splendid! Now...You can hop back on that trash-pile of yours; the officers here will guide you to a nearby hotel where you'll have an all-expenses paid stay. Nothing too fancy, so don't get too comfortable. And be sure to talk to Jack when the time comes...He has something he wants to give you. But don't tell him I told you; I think the boy wanted to surprise you, ehm-hee."

And with that, Yeager would be allowed back into the limousine...Before long the sleek vehicle pulling away and leaving Yusei with the company of officers. "Alright, punk...On your Wheeler, and don't deviate! We've authorization to arrest you if you try, so stick close." one of the officers growled...The 'escort' soon leaving the area where he was stopped.


With Hotsuma in his current state, he wouldn't be able to reply to Eikichi. The hollow sounds of his breathing through the mask of the respirator and the solemn expression the Disciples' leader wore painted a very grim picture for him, especially with the massive criminal mark marring the entire left side of his face. lightened only by the slow and steady rhythm of beeps from the electrocardiometer.

"Uhm...Sir?" he would then hear, a nurse coming to approach Eikichi; why had he come to visit this person? Did he not know who this was, or was he curious to see the man known as the Fiend? It wouldn't be unusual; several patients demanded that the monster be kicked out immediately, and that the world was better off with him dead.

"We've got the test results for Mr. Yamaguchi's blood type. Surprisingly quick, I know...He's AB-positive, so thankfully we can use supplies here to help him recover from the blood loss." she explained, adding "But...Your friend's wounds are rather severe. They'll need to be here a few days, so I need to ask. Is there any family they have?"

She then whispered, "And...For your own safety, I don't recommend being near him for too long. I'm not sure if you know who he is, but he's...well, not exactly well-liked. For good reason, if half the things they've said about him are true."
 

... How to go about this?

He knew the truth about Shivini and Takeshi's status would have to be relayed eventually. But ... it probably wouldn't be smart to begin talking and giving out the bad news. So, instead, he walked forward and set the parchment down.

Ling gave this to Judai. She wanted you to have it. She was at the same tournament the others went to ... and advanced high enough to secure her own spot at the Fortune Cup.

When the paper was unfolded, it had a simple note. Above that were numbers .... a phone number, to be more precise.

Hey Yamichi,
I hope you've been well since we last saw one another. I know this is probably gonna be abrupt - and for that I'm sorry. But I'd like to see you again, preferably before the Fortune Cup. For a date.

Call me when you can with a verdict, even if just to say hey.

-Ling

Hajime kept quiet, allowing him to enjoy one of the rare moments of peace - and probably pure happiness - he'd experienced in a long while. God knew they were all overdue for that one of these days.
His gaze slowly lowered, finally stopping at Hotsuma's chest. His fingertips lightly traced over the bandages, shuddering harder. Had that really been Yuna's doing? It was really hard to believe. There was, thankfully, one saving grace from having seen Hotsuma. He could call the others and let them know he was alive. Maybe not in the best shape, but at least alive. That'd definitely be a start, particularly for Yamichi. The poor guy had been horrified and fearful he'd died.

Not an unfair assumption, especially with how grave the wound likely had been. The wrappings made it impossible to tell just how bad the damage had been, but ... from what he remembered - as well as the form she took up - it was probably as grim as Hotsuma looked then and there.

His head turned as the nurse returned. Indeed, that was fast. But not too amazing. With how much he and Shivini had been bleeding, getting a sample had likely been more than easy enough. "You're probably going to need more than just supplies. Even for Takeshi."

By now, Eikichi was rolling both his sleeves up.

"I didn't simply come here because I know them. I kinda had a feeling they'd need a transfusion. So .... use me. For both of them."

"Both?!" the nurse repeated, her mouth falling agape, "I mean, that's honorable and everything. But --- "

"I understand what I'm saying. Look. I'm offering because I can't imagine you have much as far as supplies go. O-positive or even negative blood, in particular, is especially precious. For reasons you should understand. So let me help them both."

The nurse just shook her head. This guy was unreal, but .... he was also correct. "Alright. I'm not overly happy about this, but I'll allow it. Now, the other answers, if you don't mind? Ummm ... let's walk and talk, shall we?"

".... Fine. I ... thought I recognized him. Guess not." It pained Eikichi to lie. He shouldn't haven't had to. But at the same time ... there were certain things that could - and likely would - be relayed to the very wrong people. Hinting he did indeed know Satellite's Fiend would lead to more problems before less.

Sorry. Don't hate me for that. I hope you understand.

There was only one saving grace from lying. After the transfusion, he'd definitely call and cautiously relay to everyone Hotsuma was here and alive. They all deserved to know. So now came the next question. Eikichi thought briefly before giving the most fair reply. "I'm the closest family they have," he finally said, deciding to be honest but simultaneously vague.

" ... Very well. Okay. Have you had anything to eat recently?"

"Nope," Eikichi quickly replied, arriving in the room where Shivini and Takeshi had just finished getting their stitches. While walking between them, he grabbed a chair and placed it between the two members. Both arms would be turned up as an IV was hooked into each arm, a bit above the elbows. The other end, meanwhile, would be attached to the patients on either side of Eikichi. They would get their own IVs, with Eikichi's blood flowing through both of their bodies.

"I really hope you're sure about this. Because .... now you have to remain still."

" .... I understand that. I'm young, and certainly not certified like you. But I'm not stupid."

" .... Alright. We'll come back every now and again to check up on you three."

Eikichi leaned his head back, otherwise staying perfectly still. His eyes closed as he sent up a silent prayer and relaxed, allowing his comrades to receive his own life force. "You both better pull through. You have to ... "
 

Yamichi's eyes widened a little as Hajime would mention that he had something for him; his eyes followed down to the parchment. Only staring at it for a few seconds before a hand would tentatively reach out for it. "Me? She wanted to give me something?" he whispered; his fingers slowly undid the bundle, not really expecting what he would see.

And when he did see what it was, Hajime would be treated to quite the reaction. If there was ever a brighter shade of red, Hajime would be hard-pressed to find it; the tint spread to every possible area of his head, even the tips of his ears somehow.

"A-A date?! Wh-what the heck? Where did she even get that impression from?! I can't go on a date! She doesn't know who I am...Who I work for! Besides, I'm a mess! No, no, I can't, I can't!" he said; with how he was talking it was almost like it was the end of the world. "Hajime...Please tell me this is a forgery. A clever joke, a terrible joke...There's no way I'd be good enough for her! Plus...What if we don't click? And to be perfectly honest..."

His cheeks flushed as he would relay one of his greatest secrets to Hajime, "Hajime..What I'm about to tell you...I need to you to promise me you won't ever repeat to anyone, especially not Hotsuma!" And only when he would get the bluenette's answer, he would then say, "The truth is...I...uhm...I 'swing both ways'."
 
Hajime​

Apparently. I'm just playing messenger at the moment. Judai's the one who gave this to me.

... He couldn't help his curiosity. So, after a bit, he peeked over the tech's shoulders, smirking as he read the contents of the letter. Heh! Not bad! Takeshi did wonder why you didn't get that before. Cong --

But before he could finish congratulating Yamichi, the poor guy started panicking. Definitely not the reaction Hajime expected. His head tilted as he looked at the other second-in-command ... very much confused.

Whoa, whoa, whoa! Dude, slow down!

Hajime gently placed his hands on Yamichi's shoulders, hoping that'd help out, even if only a bit. A secret, huh? Was this the reason why he was so scared?

You do know I can't even really technically talk? No, but seriously. No one will hear this from me. I promise.

.... He wasn't sure whether to be shocked or not. A good chunk of both Yomi and the Disciples were male-dominant. But ... hearing someone admit they were bisexual? That was new.

Well, he finally began to slowly reply, First thing's first. As far as Ling goes, I don't think it's a joke. I doubt it is. Judai doesn't come off as the type to forge stuff. He'd likely be the one to since he gave it to me. If you don't wanna, I'll understand. But from what I saw, she doesn't seem very judgmental. I honestly don't think she'll care if she did learn who you worked for. This seems really genuine though. Anyway, that's your verdict to decide. Part two's the more important part.

If the simple gesture of pointing at himself didn't help Yamichi figure it out, his own confession would.

... I .... kinda may be also. I'm not as sure as you are. But I do know that for the longest time, I had a crush on Yuna. Even - maybe especially - as Yukio. But .... heh. How could I act on something like that? It didn't feel right. I'm not sure if I was more relieved or disappointed when she revealed being a woman. Either way, I'm not gonna dismiss that as a possibility.

Hajime gave a casual shrug.

It's not my place to judge. And I can't easily imagine Hotsuma doing so. You've been loyal as fuck to him. Why should he care? Still, I won't say anything, just as I promised. I just don't think you should let that upset you as much as it is right now. That's what I'm trying to say, anyway.

Even if he still didn't feel confident enough to accept Ling's offer, hopefully he'd just feel better about himself. that'd be a good enough start. Anything to help Hajime continue stalling from revealing where the others were right then and there.
 

"I work for the Fiend, Hajime...The Fiend. You know, the guy who broke the Facility apart? Who let out all the 'bad guys'?" he would reply right back; it was true, maybe she wouldn't care. But...He didn't expect to let a tidbit like that ever be made public if he could help it. And while he knew Judai wasn't the type to fib stuff, or at least had a very good gut feeling about him being that way...He was just shocked that someone actually expressed that kind of interest.

But...Yamichi would get his own own revelation. However, Hajime wouldn't see the same degree of surprise on his face as Hajime did for his declaration, not that it was much. Yamichi just kind of scratched his cheek a bit before replying, "Well...If I can be honest, Hajime, I kind of had you pegged for...well, full-on homosexual. You were always super close to Yuna, even when she was Yukio. But...That's not a bad thing. And it kind of worked out better, if only from an outside point of view...Because we both know that a lot of people out there don't exactly go for those kinds of relationships."

But...When Hajime asked why Hotsuma would care, he kind of shut up and just flushed even more, his fingertips tapping together. "Well...I kind of...Uhm..." he would say, silently praying for Hajime to fill in the blanks.
 
Hajime​

Hajime merely shrugged again as Yamichi relayed who he worked for.

I get it. Maybe she won't even ask about that though? I dunno. I'm just trying to be an optimist. Our ... lines of work haven't exactly given any of us time to date or anything. So I'm ... well, naive on this subject matter.

He had wanted to say the more blunt word and simply use 'a virgin', but ... no point. Yamichi was smart enough. He'd figure that out without any hints. Upon hearing Yamichi hear he half-guessed he may be at least partially homosexual, Hajme inwardly chuckled.

.... You did, huh? Well, fuck. I didn't think I was that easy to read. Like I said, I don't know for sure. I just know I don't wanna die alone. That's maybe the only thing I can thank that bastard Divine for. He helped me realize that when he tried to ... I guess .... taunt me? I dunno. Whatever he was going for by saying Yuna and Hotsuma are a couple. .... Were now, I'd assume.

That had been relatively obvious. But had Yamichi picked up on that? He'd find out soon enough, Hajime guessed.

..... So ...... you were - are - crushing on your own leader? Is that what you're trying to hint?

Well .... that was definitely ironic.

Okay. I get where you're coming from. Your secret's safe with me.

And he did understand too. It wasn't just words he spouted out. The worst case scenario if he tried to tell Yuna now was ... timing. That she had been - or on the rare, but still possible chance, was still - with Hotsuma, it'd just make retorted with that explanation.

But for Yamichi?

Yeah. He easily got why it'd be much, much more awkward. Even if their leaders weren't intimate with one another either, he didn't view Hotsuma as anything aside from heterosexual.

I'm sorry .... but I figured starting off on a better note would be better.

Sighing softly, Hajime leaned against the wall, crossing his arms over his chest.

So, to answer the other question ... apparently there was some freak accident. When Shivini and Takeshi went to duel one another ... the damage became real. Like how Divine and those bastards made it. But Judai insisted no one from Arcadia was there, so ... it seems to be a malfunction in the Solid Vision Technology. Given this did happen in the Tops, it's likely in the news now. Probably gonna be for a while, or can be found online, more likely than not. Eikichi is with them at the hospital. I'm sorry. But ... probably better to hear it now than get a phone call from the hospital.

Granted, that may not even happen. But just in case ... it did seem like the best precaution to take.
 

Yamichi appreciated the fact that Hajime was being so open-minded; it wasn't easy to talk to someone about this...And in truth it was starting to help out a lot. He became less flustered, and looked at the note once more. A look of contentment on his face now making itself known...Hajime was right. Their duties didn't leave much time for personal enjoyment outside of friendly Duels to let off steam. "Yeah...But it's...also more complicated than that. I owe him a lot...But, that's a story for another time."

And like Hajime would surmise, he did know of Yuna and Hotsuma's intimacy...Or former intimacy, as it were; he was doubting that if things did pan out how he felt them go that that little candle was long since snuffed out. "I hear you, Hajime...That's why...I'm going to give this a shot. We live a dangerous life...And I have a girl who's interested in me. And...You guys were right, back in the arena. I should embrace this opportunity, you never know if it might happen again."

When Hajime brought up the incident, Yamichi just nodded, "Yeah I saw...It was on the news almost immediately. People posted to social media like crazy, a lot of pictures and videos from their cellphones on their accounts. Even the Daily Duel's media site had Angela covering it. I am glad Eikichi's there though; it'll be good to have someone with a familiar face to keep them company."

Standing up, he then did something rather forward...And gave Hajime a super-tight bear-hug. Stronger than one might expect for someone of his size. "Still...Hajime, I just want to thank you. For taking up the seat while this whole mess gets sorted out. I know it's a lot to handle...But it's not just me who thinks you're doing an awesome job. A lot of people appreciate the effort you're putting in; Yuna's out there, and I know she'd be ecstatic as hell to see you've kept it running. And...We'll find where she and Hotsuma went. I can promise you that."

He then pulled back away again, "But...If it's alright with you...I think I'm going to give Ling a call. So...If you don't mind..." He would stop and make a shooing motion with his hands...Evidence that he wanted to not have someone eavesdropping on him.


A few days had passed since the incident, and though both Shivini and Takeshi were in rough shape, they were well enough to be cleared for discharge. When Shivini would come to, however, she would see quite the gift next to her bed: An elaborate and well-oriented bouquet of flowers, likely very expensive ones at that, with a hand-written card that said, "Get well soon. F. Cromwell."

Thankfully, Takeshi's wounds were bad but not irreparable; he'd have some serious scarring because of the rough edges of the weapons that cut him...But he would heal. Of course, the fact that these sutures would need to be removed was going to suck. And changing those dressings was going to be a bitch to do...Hopefully Mei knew her way around antiseptics, that was one thing that went through Takeshi's mind.

However...One thing he did see when he checked his night-stand was a card on the table. Gingerly picking it up, he found a note taped to the face...It was a copy of Supreme Arcanite Magician. "No...You've gotta be kidding me...." And when he read the note, he actually found it....Thoughtful, in some weird way.

"I know I'm not the best at this...But you fought admirably in your Duel. Should you ever wish to face me in a test of strength, I eagerly await a call from you. My number if the thought intrigues you..."

Takeshi wasn't sure whether to laugh or cry...But he ended up going with the former for a few seconds, only to stop as bolts of pain ran up his midsection and torso. "Ow fuck...." he groaned, eyes shutting a bit and clutching his abdomen; what a hell of an awakening gift. Now if he could just get his discharge papers, they'd be in business. But he figured he would flip on the television while he waited...And what he saw made his eyes widen. A news reporter was just outside the hospital, among a throng of other spectators, her words painting him and Shivini as brave survivors of a tragic accident and how there'd been no further comment from Goodwin aside from the standard, "The investigation is still ongoing". Typical autocratic response, he thought.

"Aw man...We're not going to have to deal with that noise, are we?" he muttered.
 

There we go. That's what I wanted to see. You're already pushing yourself as badly as me. Maybe worse, depending on what we're talking about. I don't need to have my ... abilities to know you'v been skipping meals. Far too many of them.

Hajime moved his head from side ot side.

I'm giving you the more generous scolding. Hotsuma would definitely chew you out for denying yourself the essentials and not taking care of yourself. Try to alter that before he returns ... I'm going of the assumption that demon general was right and he's in the hospital. Alive .... even if probably sore as fuck. But trust me, when he's well enough to get up .... you'll be in for it if he finds out all you haven't been doing for yourself.

Indeed, the hug was very unexpected. Not by any means bad, though. The gesture just had been something even Hajime hadn't seen or sensed coming.

Heh. I don't know if I've been doing that well, but thanks. It doesn't feel like it some days. Ugh. I don't know how Yuna dealt with this, before or after her Yukio days.

A soft snicker would be heard as he finally agreed to call Ling ... and even went so far as to make the 'shoo' motion.

Hmph. I'll leave just because you asked nicely, Hajime teased. That wasn't the only reason, and Yamichi would know that much. It was just his way to jest.
Although the transfusion had taken a few hours, Eikichi had stayed unconscious for twelve hours straight. The process had drained him quite a bit .... and earned him scoldings from not just the nurse, but Shivini.

"Still can't believe you did that," she muttered, carefully pushing herself to better admire the bouquet.

Eikichi shrugged. "It helped you two, didn't it? I'll regain what I've lost. Easily enough. But ... you both were far too close to Death's door for me to not act."

" ... I appreciate it. Really, I do. But you should have let some of the supplies be used and not only you."

"Should have, would have, could have."

Stretching his arms over his head, Eikichi turned and glanced over at Takeshi. When he sounded shocked, his head tilted. Standing up, he moved forward ... and couldn't help but chortle.

"Heh! If she came in and put this directly in the room, I must have been very unconscious. Because I definitely didn't see her at all. Huh. Well .... you all are growing up rather quickly, aren't you?"

"Maybe it's your turn to do just that?" Shivini teased, making Eikichi roll his eyes.

"Wrong wording. Anyway .... I don't know. I'm not as worried about such affairs as I probably should be. I'd rather have Hajiime find someone; I know that's been something he's wanted."

Honestly, after all the shit his ototo had gone through?

Just any change of luck would be greatly appreciated.

With them merely waiting on hte dismissal papers, Eikichi sat back down .... and frowned as he noticed the large crowd all but outside on the news.

"Hey ... Takeshi. I would have told you this way sooner, but .... well, I was out." His head nodded, trying to nod to several rooms down. His voice lowered as he added, "Hotsuma is here. I saw him. Alive .... unconscious .... but otherwise well. I'm gonna tell the others when I get back with Shivini. But since you work directly under him, per se, thought you'd wanna know."

"Really? He is? How'd he look?"

Eikichi tilted his hand. "Could have been better ... but certainly could have been worse."

Even though he'd originally wanted to call, the Spellcaster opted not to. Just in case he was overheard. Knowing the doctors were occupying themselves with paperwork, this seemed like the best chance to let them know about one of the leaders' status.

His fingers tapped lightly against his denims as he stared up at the screen. "As for that crowd? I'm sure we can see about avoiding them. Somehow."
You're amazing. Have I told you that?

Although Rose was simply in Yuna's head, her room indicated she - or someone, anyway - had been there. Hinted by the imprint on her bed as well as the sheets still a bit damp with sweat and juices.

Those would be dealt with later.

Right now, Yuna - now known around here as Akane - was getting a shower in before her fight. Sure, it seemed a bit redundant. She'd sweat again and need another; but at least this time around, it'd be from more orthodox physical labor.

Awww. Why the cold shoulder?

"I'm still pretty pissed at you. For even letting things go as far as they did. You're a good reason I can't go back.

A defeated sigh passed her lips as she softly confessed, "But ... fine. I can't lie; you are good."

Rose had easily sensed after Yuna ran from Hotsuma the poor girl was very pent up. So, she agreed to help out with that, as well as her disguise. Granted, her hair was actually dyed red. But a bit was her own power helping keep the new guise up; mainly for times Yuna had to give her hair touch-ups.

And honestly, there had been another reason Yuna agreed to the arrangement ... aside from the fact Rose had been right about how she felt.

This was an easy and one of the only ways to ensure no unwanted consequences could happen.

Plus, can't really be cheating on him. It's technically with myself, so ...

Her head shook. Why did it matter? She didn't get it, but Hotsuma often plagued her dreams. Even though by now, she was confident she as the last thing on his mind. Everyone she used to lead probably knew too .... and likely didn't want her back.

It had been exactly why Yuna fled to an underground fighting pit and began her life as Akane. She couldn't face them ... nor would they want to see her. She was positive about that.

Aftter stepping out and drying herself, Yuna grabbed an outfit she laid out. Every opponent was dumb eough to have the same reaction; they focused on the appearance. But never once did they dwell on the point of it.

The fabric was relatively light, which allowed her to move far faster than her opponents counted on. And that was without the speed boost Rose could easily give, if ever needed.

This place did offer the ability ot have underground duels ... but Akane was cautious of those. One of her other nicknames around here, aside from "Crimson Blade" Akane, tended to be "Demonic Child" Akane.

The latter hadn't really gotten around to anyone she would have wanted to stay hidden from.

But that was why she kept herself discreet and favored physical fights over duels. If anyone recognized her deck ....

She didn't want to really think very long on what could or would happen to her.

Akane reached forward, first grabbing some deodorant and applying it to her underarms. Next was some air freshener, which as promptly distributed through her room. When she could get some free time - probably after this fight - she'd get to doing the mundane shit like laundry and whatnot.

Part of Akane's payment was being given a studio to live in. Rent was reduced ... to a certain extent, anyway. But she otherwise paid for it. She had freedom for the first time in years ... and very few, if any, worries.

Even though she did miss her old life ... she was done with it; or so she kept convincing herself. They were all better off without her. Wasn't that why no one had come to find her? Or try to?

Another grimace spread over her face as she dismissed the thoughts. Finally, she grabbed a hair band and tied her crimson locks in a tight ponytail. With a graceful pivot, Akane left her new place and began walking to her work which, thankfully, was close by. This wasn't the time tot think about her past; rather, it was time for her to go out, kick ass, and take names.
 

Takeshi just chuckled, "I'd say you were more than unconscious, doof. I'm surprised you're not still laid up; Shivini's right, you should have let them use what they had." But...He also knew the guy was too stubborn and would do "Eikichi, he's an able Duelist and a got a hell of a protective streak. Anyone would be happy to him their partner." And it was true; Hajime was one of the few that Takeshi - and almost everyone at Yomi - would refer to as completely dependable. Any person that managed to hook his attention would be very lucky indeed.

However...His eyes widened as he would mention that Hotsuma was here, before long a loud sigh of relief could be heard. "Man...Once we get back, we can give Yamichi the good news. Poor guy's been worried sick." he replied; as much as he wanted to go check on his boss - the guy who sacrificed his blood to save them more than once - he also knew that too much asking around could attract the wrong kind of attention.

"But...How do you propose we get around the vultures? The moment we step out those doors, they're going to be all over us. And the last thing I want to do is have cameras shoved in my face." he then asked; and it was true, especially if the doctors were all about 'proper healing'. That kind of attention wouldn't be very conducive to their healing process.

"But...We could try to sneak out the back? I know it's cliche, but if we can't convince the nurses to help us that might be the next best option."

And as if on cue, a doctor came back - dressed in a white button down shirt and khakis, his bright blonde hair shining in the light and his shuffling through a shock of documents - and gave the three of them their papers. "Shivini, Takeshi...We would like you to come back in a couple of weeks for a post-op visit. These painkillers will be hopefully be enough until then; we'll need to re-evaluate your wounds." Takeshi nodded, "So...When can I Duel again?" The doctor sighed, "Well...So long as you don't push it, I would say tomorrow. But to be perfectly honest, I sent my recommendation to the Board...It's going to be a few days. So I suggest you take this time to rest up...Both of you. Are you sure you want to leave now?"



Given that it had been a few days since their meeting, Kiryu was all too eager to start; if it was true what Rutger said, then this 'Fortune Cup' was probably where they were all going to meet up. Would they hit them while they were here though? Or would they wait until afterward, when they were softer and not so well prepared? He opted for the latter; tournaments like that were hard on the body. All that strategy, planning, and actually fighting out the Duel...It took its toll, and frankly Kiryu would be all too eager to prey on Yusei after it was done.

It would be the perfect time to kick him while he was down.

But...That still left the issue of trying to find him first. And that meant searching up and down through every hellhole he could find. Yusei was here, Kiryu knew it...But where?

Thankfully...He knew how to get around, and just like in the Satellite, there was an underground for every vice. Gambling, dueling, cage fighting. Yusei wouldn't risk exposing himself above ground in the Tops...He'd be somewhere in here. Somewhere a marked criminal like him would fit in.

"Yuseiiii....Come out, come out, wherever you are. Hehehe." the silver-haired male chuckled, pulling the dark hood over his face a little more. If there was anything to help him out, he knew of one underground fighting pit over in the Tops. One that he had visited before during his time in the Enforcers. Granted it was a Dueling Circuit before, but he'd seen the physical fighting. And he knew quite well that by this point, they developed an actual fighting ring.

And with that, he would make his way there...However, when he got close, he felt a familiar energy. It wasn't Yusei's...But he couldn't help feeling like he knew it from somewhere. Who could it have been, he had no idea...But with this, he was more determined than ever to find out. His travels would take him to an abandoned Runner production facility, 'Foreclosed' signs all over its surface. And after checking around him, he would let himself in; guess they didn't have much need for a doorman. The Sector morons were too stupid to check here; Goodwin was too conceited to think such deplorable crimes would infect his precious city.

Oh, the very thought of making hell erupt in this great golden jewel was almost too much for him to handle. Almost...But not enough for him to stop checking out who this might be. However, he seemed to have just missed and went back out.

And when he did...He was more than a little surprised to see a flash of red hair. And it happened to be in the direction that he felt the familiar energy; and so, he decided to follow this mystery person. Where they would take him, he could only guess. "Ahhh....I wonder, I wonder...Let's see what this unfolds to, shall we?"
 

"Yeah. We all have been."

" ... You didn't happen to see Yuna here, did you?" When Eikichi moved his head in the direction of a 'no', she sighed softly.

"Actually, that's good. She's probably laying low. When I went directly into his room to confirm it actually was Hotsuma, the nurse made it very clear quite a few people wanted him out. If Yuna were here, she'd get the same treatment. Word on her being his partner has likely gone around by now."

"You sure she's hiding?"

"I'm sure she's not suicidal. She's more likely to be under our noses than dead."

Before Shivini could triple check how certain the purple-haired male was, a doctor walked in. Eikichi nervously chuckled as he hesitantly took the third set of papers. "Are mine really necessary? I mean ... I'm fine now. I wasn't really treated, per se .... "

... But he shut up and opted to go on and sign. Just to make this process go faster and much smoother for all of them.

He'd take Shivini's and Takeshi's papers when they were done, handing them back over so they could be looked over.

Shivini would politely smile and nod. "He's gonna keep watching over me," she said, nodding towards Eikichi. "And honestly? I didn't have any plans for the next few days that'd put me at risk for re-opening anything. So I'm fine with taking its easy. Your main worry is him." she half-teasingly stated, grinning at Takeshi.

"She's correct," Eikichi would confirm, "... Mainly about me watching over her. And Takeshi, if needed. My main question - and it was also Mr. Yamaguchi's - is ... got any way to help them avoid the media? They really don't need that attention and, quite frankly, I don't imagine you all do either." With the inclusion of trying to add the hospital into the equation, hopefully it would make paring some security even easier. An ironic thought, no doubt.

But they were all wild cards. None of them had links to Hotsuma or Yuna, so they'd be fine.

Besides, they could lie about a drop off point and return the rest of the way there on their own. Not easily, but it wasn't outright impossible, either.

Alternatively, maybe the doctor would propose an even smarter and less riskier plan for them. Eikichi wouldn't be overly picky, and he honestly doubted the others would also. As long as they could get back, that would be what would really matter.
Akane's eyes narrowed as she started to turn her head. There was a feeling she hadn't sensed in a while; the one indicating she was being watched, followed, or both.

Don't! You are right, but don't. Act normal.

.... Who is it?

Would you believe me if I said Kiryu?

Not overly, no. Odd. Think this is a fluke? Him just following me to do so?

No. It definitely isn't.

That made Akane frown, latching slightly onto her lower lip. Her hands would move behind her head as she readjusted her ponytail ... a very typical habit she accustomed, particularly after working at her new job. And hell, it was never like he saw or picked up on anything she would normally do during her Facility days. She was, or the most part, an unknown factor. The most the had on her was her deck; something that made Akane all the more relieved she had been scheduled in a physical fight today.

Why do you think it isn't a fluke?

It's hard to explain, but .... he's different. Far more dangerous than when you last dueled him. Use caution.

Akane smirked, unable to help but find the thought hard to believe ... but simultaneously amusing.

Look ... I man handled him easily before. I can do so again just with pure strength if it comes to that. If push really comes to shove? I'm not alone. You should know that.

You're oddly confident.

Should I not be? I've fought guys older, taller, and much stronger than him. And seriously, he's got no proof, no nothing of who I really am. It'll be easy to get him kicked out of work, or even worse.

Kiryu would see Akane walk into a now unused building. Inside, however, it was rather active and very full of life, despite how the exterior otherwise appeared. Tons of men - and even some women - were huddling around a cage arena.

"Akane! About time! You were almost late!"

"Amost doesn't count, now does it, boss?" A sly grin adorned her face as she waved, hurrying past the crowds and downstairs. An irked sigh would be the last thing she heard before numerous cheers, be it in the form of cat calls or more traditional methods. Once both feet entered the cage, she waited near one end of the corner, and lightly jumped on her feet. Getting warmed and psyched up before her opponent walked in; a very common, but effective, tactic that was used by the smarter fighters.

An underground MC walked among the crowd, holding a mic. "We're here to see if anyone can give our champion, 'Crimson Blade' Akane, a decent challenge. She's been undefeated thus far since her debut a week and a half ago. Come now! This has to be really embarrassing for you all, particularly the gents, isn't it?!"

Akane smirked, knowing this MC was as correct as the one she'd seen announce all the public duels. She had stopped bouncing and was now stretching one arm across the other, switching back and forth while patiently waiting to see who she'd fight today. "I think I may have scared all of the competition away," she finally said, earning some chuckles from the audience.
 

"Oi, it's not like I'm going to be running a marathon. It's just going to be a Duel." Takeshi reminded them, the doctor clearing his throat, "Yes, but unfortunately it was in fact a Duel that landed you here in the first place. Honestly, that Solid Vision system is suicidal." Takeshi raised an eyebrow, "What makes you think that? Aside from what happened to us, there've been relatively few injuries from what I understand."

The doctor laughed, "Oh boy, if only you knew. We get so many injuries from that damned system's effects that it's almost absurd. Thankfully none have been anywhere near as severe as yours have been, but we've had plenty of fractures, bruises, and a number of concussions from people hitting their heads after. And I should know, I've been with this hospital for nearly fifteen years." Takeshi whistled, "Wow...That's pretty impressive, Doc." The doctor just laughed, "Please, just call me Taemon."

Once the papers were collected, Taemon would then say in response to their question, "Normally, I wouldn't allow a patient to go this way...But I think, given your circumstances, your concerns are well-warranted. I have no idea why they're even here; should be hounding that damn Director. Especially since he's letting that man stay here." The tone would imply intense dislike, all but obviously pointing to Hotsuma. Takeshi did his best to still his tongue, his fists clenching; the fuck was wrong with these people, eh?

"But...That's nothing to concern you. Please, follow me...I'll have you leave outside the ambulance bay. Do you have money for a cab?" he then asked, prepared to offer them fare to get wherever they needed to go. "Yeah...We do. Thanks again, Taemon. It's appreciated." Takeshi replied, Taemon leading them to the counter and asking for the main nurse desk to call a taxi and have it arrive on the south side of the building; and once all three did follow the doctor to an elevator, they would take the car to the ground level. And after swiping his badge a few times, he would then have them leave outside...Free of any hounding cameras.

And sure enough...Their ride awaited, Takeshi giving the driver the name of the hotel they had been staying at. While they rode, he would then say, "Well...Guess we'll need to extend our stay. But...Getting pretty light on the wallet; and I hate to be spending all of Yamichi's money like this." Takeshi added; and while he knew that this wasn't all of it, it should be going more towards helping to keep Yomi stocked up on goods.


Kiryu followed and followed; where in the world was this person going? Did she - he assumed it was a she from the body and super long ass ponytail - go between fight pits or something? Or did he catch her managing to just leave her place? Well...Either way, he imagined he would find out soon enough.

And following right behind her, he would notice that it was a packed house as well; so, they moved shop did they? Made sense; could never stay in one place too long after all. "Ah, I missed this." Kiryu grinned, the blackened sclera of his eyes making his golden irises stand out rather prominently. Unlike Misty and Demak, he chose not to change back despite being informed that he could. No, he wanted to be ready to show Yusei a true meaning of nightmare incarnate. And if his appearance helped that asshole reinforce the fact that he should be dead, then all the better.

Regardless, he stuck more to the back as they would go through the motions, others going around collecting bets and hearing the MC call out the woman's name...But when he caught sight of her face, he just had to laugh, the noise drowned out over all the cheering. "Akane...Interesting, so this is what you did after you got out of the Facility." Kiryu mused; even with the hair-color change, he'd never forget that face. Especially when she turned her cheek a bit and he saw the mark just below her eye. The one that landed his ass in solitary. Well...He was still awaiting orders from Goodwin, so he figured he'd stay and watch whatever poor bastard decided to step into the ring. If she fought anything like she dueled, then her opponent would be damn lucky to walk out of this without a few scratches or fractures.

As Akane would insult the crowd, they would all see another male jump in. And while not overly built, his body rippled with lean muscle, hands, ankles and arms covered in bandages, not a single bit of hair on his head. Scars adorned his lips, limbs, chest, and eyes, marring a good majority of his dark-tanned flesh. Evidence of the numerous fights he'd been in. And from the sounds of the thunderous applause, it seemed the crowd knew who he was indeed. Whether Akane did or not would remain to be seen.

"Oh, oh, folks! We got a regular here! Iron Will Alito steps into the ring! Who will win?! And who gets carried out on the bed! Let's find out!" the MC announced, Alito bouncing a bit on the balls of his feet before striking a combat stance. No words of demeaning intent, no words at all in fact; he had heard of this 'Crimson Blade' Akane and wished to fight her with his own two hands. He had waited because she was new, and he wished to see what she could do. Needless to say, now he would take his turn at her.

And with the MC now having left the ring, he had an arm raised as if to signal the start of a race. "You all know the rules! One round, winner take all! Fight until you can't fight anymore! No mercy, no rules, NO SURRENDER!" And with this, he would bring his arm down and yell, "FIGHT!"
 

Silence; that was htte primary response both Shivini and Eikichi would give. At first, it simply started off because Takeshi had done most of the talking with the doctor. Bu then, when he very blatantly spoke so ill of Hotsuma ... well, it shifted to more personal reasons. He ma not have been either Eikichi nor Shivini's boss, but he was still a man linked to their own. A respected individual. Eikichi had already felt bad enough having to lie about knowing him. Not being able to defend him was much worse.

But they were literally seconds away from laving; speaking now would definitely make things worse.

"Thank you for the cab arrangements, Taemon-san. It's greatly appreciated."

And there would be another pause. This one, however, only lasted until the doors to the tax shut. When Eikichi was certain no one else could hear, he smiled reassuringly to Takeshi. "You two are gonna get your own winnings at the end of this tournament. Until then?"

Shivini looked nervously to Eikichi, seeming to be getting on edge about the financial part as well.

"O-Oi, don't give me that look, imouto. We'll figure something out, okay? We always do. And besides, you can let Finlay know you're dismissed from the hospital when we return."

"True enough, I suppose," she concurred, smiling and blushing simultaneously at the thought.
... Oh?

Alto was a man she had definitely heard of. So when he entered and revealed himself to be shorter than she'd assumed ... that was unexpected. Only by a few inches, but it was enough to reveal between the two of them, Akane was definitely taller.

Then .... hmmm. He shouldn't be much heavier than you.

Her eyes firmly studied Iron Will, trying to guess what kind of fighting style he would have. Couldn't be something that relied solely on power. There was likely a bit of speed. Was he mixed like her?

Well ... no matter. Maybe he could be more of a challenge, for once. She'd been long overdue for those, anyway. And because of the hope that came with this man being more interesting tan the others, she pushed her gun further down into her pocket, hiding it from immediate view. There was an outline in the one next to it; likely a switchblade. Things that some men had forced her to bring often with her to her work. Granted, those items were only used against the ones dumb enough to try to rape her. Still, those had been the ones that ended up 'on the bed'. The rest left alive ... although with their pride and egos very much shattered.

What was better?

Well, that depended on one's point of view.

Time had slowed slightly; not literally. But the sensation as if it had was a common feeling for Akane. She used the last few seconds while the MC reminded everyone of the traditions and rules how to go about approaching her opponent. This one would likely be alive ... lest he gave her a reason to change her mind. So now, it came down to what moves would be best to use.

By the time "FIGHT!" had been cried out, though, she knew. Her arm would stretch out, appearing to go for a simple clothesline. When she got beside Iron Will's right arm, however, it quickly lowered as she went for an arm twist clothesline.
 

Takeshi didn't add much else during the car ride back; he just wished they could bring Hotsuma with them. It felt wrong leaving him there, completely exposed and vulnerable; if the doctor's words were anything to go by, it was only the oath of 'do no harm' that was keeping him there. And he just hoped that they would uphold it.

"Yeah, I know...Just still feel bad having Yamichi foot the bill for everything. I'll pay the guy back once we get our winnings." he would reply to Eikichi, the three of them soon arriving at their hotel room. "You guys head on up, I'll tell the hotel to extend our stay for another four nights." he would then say, paying the taxi driver his fare plus a tip. "Thanks, friend; good luck in the tournament. Don't see too many players using Undead decks; you got my vote as the one to win it." the driver replied, Takeshi pinking a little as he said, "Well...Appreciate it, I'll fight my hardest."

Going into the lobby, he would walk up and tell the receptionist to place a four-night extension on their room, showing her the keycard as verifying evidence. Once that was squared away, he would rejoin his friends.



This fight was going to be brutal; Alito wasn't undefeated like Akane, but he had the strength of character and bodily endurance to go toe-to-toe with the best of them. Evidenced as such when the first round began, Akane going for a classic move that would normally make most opponents land on their ass.

However...There was one glaring weakness in it, one trained in close combat could easily exploit. And even if it meant taking damage, he could lessen it on himself and deal a good bit in return. As he was caught in her arm twist...He did something unexpected and actually went forward into her move. His body torquing itself at the hips and driving a brutal knee into her celica plexus. Though the momentum of her doing the clothesline still went through, forearm catching him across as the head as they would both go down for a moment.

It wouldn't be for long though, both fighters shakily standing up; Alito just smiled, however. But it wasn't one of mockery, no this was one of acknowledgement. She was skilled, and he planned to enjoy this fight as much as possible. And when his wind returned, he would rush at her and go for a jumping roundhouse kick.
 

... The fuck's he doing? Or not doing?

By the time one had their arm grabbed, most fought and struggled to keep the inevitable from happening. But this guy? He was all but accepting it.

Well ... that was an easy way to figure the answer to her earlier curiosity on what type of fighting this guy favored. With how strong his knee landed in her gut, Akane lost much more oxygen than usual, despite the technique being common. So that was it; something favoring his lower body. Akane winced, coughing a few times while staying on her back.

Hehehe .... you should have just listened to your instincts.

Her observation of the guy had actually thought of simply going to town on his lower body. She'd chosen not to out of desire to make this fight last longer. But now? She would have to follow through with her plans. It'd become less of a want and more of a very essential need.

Hmm ....

When he rushed forward with his next attack, she came up with something. The height - courtesy of the jump - would have to be accounted for. But it was the only counter Akane could come up with. When his leg got close enough, she'd wrap around and, with some effort, throw Alito down to the mat. Purposely doing so a bit rougher than usual since his forte was linked to his lower body. With any luck, the extra 'oomph' would not only weaken him, but make his reaction time slower.
 
Alito::Kiryu Kyosuke​

Alito didn't expect her to react as well as she did, evidenced as such when he tried to pull back from the roundhouse and ended up being caught with his leg in her arms. His left leg slammed hard onto the mat, trying to stabilize himself but she would then sweep it out and throw him over, landing hard on his side.

"Ooomph!" he grunted; and with his leg in such a compromising position, it would be difficult to get himself out of this. But thankfully...Being on the shorter side had its advantages. Namely a surprising ability to contort oneself.

And doing so, Akane would find Alito rotating into her hold, able to draw his leg super close to his body before unleashing the leg into a devastating straight kick with his heel connecting to her jaw, forcing her to release him. He would definitely be a more tenacious adversary for her. And leaping back to his feet, the fight that followed next would be one of the most brutal Akane had ever faced...And with how much experience he's had.

Kiryu meanwhile, just watched 'Akane' fight; this was getting good. They were really slugging it out now, and for some of the time, most of the people who bet on Akane to win looked to be in danger of losing. "Well, well...Yuna, you've gotten quite dangerous since we last met." he mused; but then again, so had he. And with how she would be after this fight...Could be an excellent time for some payback. For having him thrown inside solitary, and as far as he was concerned, cheating during their Duel. How could one reasonably fight when they made a card game damage feel even more real than Solid Vision itself?
 

Whilst keeping his leg held, Akane began slowly moving her hands further down, going for an ankle lock. She hadn't changed her mind on whether he'd live or not; however, he needed much more than to be brought down only one peg. He needed far worse. And with the strength in his legs? It was clear drastic measures needed to be taken, even going so far as to destroy his Achilles Heel. Her hands barely finished moving in place before the rough boot landed on her jaw.

"Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"

Thankfully, her being bent at an angle had helped make it less lethal. With enough force, even a place like the jaw could be a deadly one to hit. And with someone like Altion? That could have been at a higher than usual chance due to his skills being honed in on his legs.

Akane backed away, panting slightly as she watched her opponent carefully. Allowed him to stand up, even. However, she didn't intend tot let him regain too much of his balance. Not long after he got up, she moved forward, wasting little tie in getting one of her finishers done and executed.

Unfortunately, she really couldn't savor this match like she'd hoped.

And that was what this next move would reveal.

Furthermore, if he could move well enough even after this ... then he'd likely be her first loss. One she would accept. He had been honorable, if nothing else, and that was more than she could say for about half of the other men she'd fought before.
 
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