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


"Hmmm. Well ... " Leaning forward, Ling's voice would lower as she whispered, "A better view, huh? Maybe something without extra help can be arranged tonight? I don't have a roommate anymore, after all."

Oh yeah. Her face was definitely even more red somehow.

But at the same time ... she was actually serious. He'd gotten enough nerve to kiss her, and even more to hoist her up. Even with Yusei helping, she was counting the fact Yamichi was in on that plan regardless. Hell, it was his idea, not even Yusei's. And truthfully? Ling wanted to do some more intimate things herself. If that wasn't a good enough sign, what was?

"E-Eh?! Good question," Ling chimed in, turning in time as she heard this woman suddenly address Jack and Yamichi.

"Business, Miss Ling. It shouldn't be too long."

Business? Ling wondered, raising an eyebrow. Well ... if that was true, better for it to be linked to that sorta topic than him getting an unlawful arrest.

"Jack?!" Mikage replied, clearly not used to him denying Goodwin of all people. "I mean, I understand your exhaustion and all. But he really -- "

However, when he insisted it was his job to get Fayth back, that made her stop. What did that mean, exactly?

"W-Well .... "

But before Mikage could convince Jack to stay or change his mind, he walked away, causing the assistant to sigh. Oh dear. Rex was not going to be happy about this. Not one bit. "Well then, Yamichi-kun ... please follow me."

However, Yamichi wouldn't only step forward. Ling would too. And before Mikage could argue, she shook her head no adamantly. "We're staying in the same hotel, after all. We're gonna walk back together. I'll wait outside, if needed. But I'm otherwise not standing out here looking like an idiot and waiting for him."

So today was gonna be one of those days, huh? Ugh. She'd need some Ibuprofen later on - or after escorting he two inside. Preferably sooner than later.

" ... Very well. Come along, Miss Ling."

Fayth blinked. Wow. That was ... surprising. She honestly expected Jack to say something more along the lines of "Hurry up", not "Nope, not now" to Mikage. But in all honesty? It was a nice surprise. She'd already had her share of Goodwin for the day, and didn't really feel like being near him again unless absolutely necessary. Reaching forward, she'd link her arm with his .... and then quickly trace the word Thanks on the sleeve of his coat.

"Yeah. I suppose it is, huh? Take care, Yusei."

Fayth would wave farewell, then turn with Jack to retrieve her own Wheeler so she could ride back to the mansion.
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Goodwin, meanwhile, was patiently waiting. How long could Ling end up keeping her title, anyway? That could certainly be something to help remove any negative imagery or reputation he'd received today - if someone managed to defeat her. Then, it'd look as if she truly were a fluke. As far as Jack's business went, he intended to relay the mansion could remain in his name. It had been a part of their agreement, and there was never a clause of any kind that said he had to remain the King of Games to keep the house. A generous offer, he figured.

It was obvious that from here on out, he'd need to be cautious on how certain cards were played over the next few days. More so than usual, especially. that damn Angelina had nearly made things even worse. Risks like that were ones he just couldn't take. Even with Jack being dethroned, he was still his protege of sorts.

"Thank you, Mika -- "

His eyes narrowed slightly as he noted only Yamichi walked in.

"Jack ... didn't feel up to talking. He said you could speak with him over the phone if it truly was so important."

..... That girl truly was becoming troublesome in her own rights. It was definitely something he would think more on after Yamichi left. He would nod, replying out loud with, "Duly noted. Thank you, Mikage. You can leave us. Yamichi ... please. Do take a seat."

And after he would comply - as well as the office door got closed - Rex would get down to business. That would be the good news, at least; there were no officers. So he wasn't at risk for being arrested, if that was still his worry. It was just Yamichi and Goodwin which, while intimidating, wasn't as bad as it could be.

"I run a side organization of sorts called Iliaster. Think of it as a group of elite duelists who help enforce security within The Tops. Don't worry - they're much more discreet than Sector. You'd be more akin to an undercover officer than anything. Even though you yourself didn't win, the fact is, you got very far in this tournament. And you dd so with a deck almost no one uses. You'd do very well, I think. So ... what say you, Yamichi?"
 
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Yamichi would definitely flush a bit as she got close...Too close. His face soon turned as red as hers; was she suggesting....?

Oh god, he didn't know if he could handle that! "Easy Yamichi...You're just overthinking it. Just like you did with Hajime....Calm. Down..." he said to himself mentally, replying sheepishly, "A-ah, is that right? W-well....Maybe we can work something?" he then replied, his voice certainly an octave or two higher out of sheer nervousness. Oh yeah, he knew she was getting him back...But he didn't expect her to be so good at it.

Which in a way, made him thankful that the blue-haired woman interrupted when she did. He and Ling would follow Mikage inside, being led up the elevator to Goodwin's office. And soon enough, he would be right at Goodwin's front door. Business, huh? Well...This couldn't be anything good. No matter what Goodwin wanted to talk to him about, he wasn't exactly comfortable with having a sit-down with the man who had his police brutalize and imprison people for stupid shit like a card game.

Nope, if he had his choice, he'd be off celebrating the victory with Ling. Though...He had a sneaking suspicion she would try to get him back for publicly kissing her and even hoisting her on his shoulders. Even so, that would be much more preferable.

"Don't worry, this won't take long" Yamichi re-assured her before being let inside; the office itself was warmly lit from the wide windows that let in the sun. Each piece of furniture seemed to be worth more than any of the factory workers could make in a year. "Must be nice to live in such luxury while adults and children starve..." he bitterly muttered in his head; honestly, how could this guy feel proud of himself?

Following the Director's instruction, he would sit down...Only to have the last thing he ever expected be asked of him. He wanted him....to join this 'Iliaster'? Why him, he got knocked out when he dueled Takeshi. Not that it mattered, since there was no way in hell he would accept.

Even so...Maybe he could use this to his advantage.

"I hardly think deck choice makes a Duelist strong, Director...With all due respect." Yamichi would start off. Taking a moment to pause and think about his words, he then said, "While I'm flattered you think that highly of my skill, there's a couple questions I want answered first."

The first one he considered to be relatively innocuous, "I get the feeling you're not someone who does things for no reason. You only asked because there was a spot that opened up, wasn't there. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I take some of those Duelists we all faced were part of this 'Iliaster', weren't they?"

When Goodwin answered, Yamichi then asked, "If that really was the case, then why not ask someone like Ling or even Fayth? They went on to win it....Something about this tournament just isn't adding up."

Which would then lead him to his third and final question, "I might not look like much, but I know a cover when I see it. This tournament wasn't just about finding the next King-slash-Queen of Games, was it?"
 
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Ling ​

Ling would swing her legs back and forth. Thankfully, there were a few chairs lined outside of Goodwin's office. All thte dueling had made her feet tired, including the turbo duel. Maybe especially that one, as she always had to keep at least one foot pushed down. Even if Yamichi declined on her earlier offer .... maybe they could snuggle and finally relax? That wouldn't be as nerve wracking.

Her head would lift as Mikage walked out, wearing a less-than-content look, closing the door behind her. While it was still in the midst of shutting, however, she heard what Mikage had insisted this meeting as for, but coming out of Goodwin's mouth as he uttered the word 'business'.

.... This would definitely be against her better judgement. But, why not? Sh'd already said and done so much as it was. What was adding one more item to that list?

Odd. No cameras?

Or, if there were any, then they were very, very well-hidden.

After looking up at the ceiling, she then moved closer to the door - not quite pushing her ear against the surface, but staying as near as possible so she could hear everything.

Well ... he picked up on everything faster than Rex would have supposed. Then again, that was another thing that helped him decide he wasn't affiliated with Yuna or Hotsuma. He was smart - way too smart. If anything, he could probably re-take the Facility back mostly, if not solely, by himself. "Well .... since it was that obvious for you, yes. Some of those duelists were indeed with Iliaster."

No reason to hide that much. Not when the answer could be kept vague. It was how to go about the last inquiry.

"See though, Yamichi, there's more to this job than simply needing a good deck. A steady head attached to your shoulders helps, and you definitely have that. Which is why I chose you. Fayth -- ohh. So you know her real name and that she wasn't Celeste, eh? Heh."

Interesting. Something he definitely tucked away to use for later. Clearing his throat, he continued, "Anyway, Fayth, I don't think, would have the stomach for this job. She barely handled herself in the Facility before it got overthrown. And Ling? It is true. She probably could do well. But after her declaration that included how she feels about me?"

Goodwin shook his head.

"She'd deny the offer in a heartbeat."

Damn fucking straight I would, Ling thought, feeling her fists clench. Why in the hell had someone like Fayth been sent to the Facility? Wait. Then ... that mark on her face .... she'd never dwelled on it much before, but .... was that supposed to be what they gave her as a criminal mark?

Cruel .... Ling thought, biting down on her lip slightly. She quickly sat back down as the elevator dinged once more, hinting someone else had arrived. She'd wear an innocent look on her face ... barely controlling the urge to laugh as a literal clown walked closer. Actually, ran. Oh lord was he running.

"And for the last question?"

Rex wasn't sure if he was more relieved or annoyed that someone was running outside his office. Well, that meant one hing for sure; it wasn't Mikage. She never ran. Not lest an emergency came up. Even then ... he didn't hear heels connecting on the floor, which spelled out that was someone else. "May have to hold on that thought; sounds like I'm about to get another knock if not outright have it opened without much warning soon."
 
"Again...With all due respect, Director, I'm sure you knew from the moment she set foot in the tournament who she really was. Which makes me curious why you had Takeshi arrested for his connections. He didn't lie about his name, nor was he here trying to hurt anyone." he would say in reply, keeping a very stern expression while doing so. If the man hadn't figured it out right now, the tech was more than a little upset about what had transpired.

"No surprises there; you weren't exactly Director of the Year with how you put her on the spot like you did" Yamichi quietly mused, keeping his thoughts private. Though anyone who was any good at reading expressions would see that he more than agreed with the Director's assessment of Ling's willingness to accept an offer to join.

However...Their meeting would be interrupted as someone burst through the door in a frantic hurry, his breathing hard as he hunched over to catch a second wind. "Dir...Director Goodwin! Terrible....Whew, terrible news!" At this the man stood up and almost shouted, "The Fourth District jailhouse was struck, sir! Yamaguchi is gone!"

And it was here that Yamichi's heart and stomach felt like they just dropped; he could feel a cold sweat break across his brow, his eyes wide as the gravity of the news hit him like a truck. "You....What do you mean HE'S GONE?!" Yamichi roared, bolting from his seat and grabbing the clown-faced man by the collar of his jacket. "Unhand me, you lout! Do you have any idea who you're roughing up?! The Assistant Director of Domino City and Sector Security!" Yeager said with more than an annoyed expression...One that quickly changed as Yamichi's gaze turn ice cold and harder than diamond. The grip on Yeager's lapels tightening even more.

"I don't care...All I know is that you're someone who's about to catch a serious ass-whooping unless he starts talking." he would mutter with a lethal chill in his tone, Yeager's expression quickly turning to one of severe concern and fright as the young man's face and his became uncomfortably close. And moments later, he would shout "Now...SPILL IT, CLOWN! WHERE THE FUCK IS HE?! AREN'T YOU IDIOTS SUPPOSED TO KEEP PEOPLE SAFE NO MATTER WHAT?!" Probably not the best thing to say, as it could have very negative complications...But hearing his best friend was gone? Especially with all the shit that happened back home? One who knew would understand how pissed he was. And even if he didn't have many buttons, anything regarding people like Hotsuma and Takeshi was one...A very big one at that.

Yeager squealed and covered his face with his arms, eyes squinted hard closed "I DON'T KNOW WHERE HE IS, I SWEAR! THE GUARDS WERE UNCONSCIOUS WHEN WE GOT THE ALARM! THAT'S ALL I KNOW, I PROMISE!" Yamichi seemed dissatisfied, his scowl turning into a bared-tooth grimace, making Yeager cry out, "NOT THE FACE, PLEASE! I'M A BLEEDER!" But instead of hitting him, Yeager would find himself thrown backwards, landing hard on his ass and still shielding himself with an arm. Eyes closed

"Oh...And Director? I refuse, by the way."

That was all Yamichi said before he started to walk out the door, saying to his girlfriend, "We should go, Ling..." Yeager opened an eye to see it was only him and Rex. He then stood up and after checking to make sure Yamichi was gone, let out a very audible sigh of relief. "Director...Shall I send some units to apprehend him?" he would then ask; how dare that brat do that to him.
 

"Do you have proof of that? Bommer didn't seem like he wanted to hurt anyone. Lo and behold, though, he very well nearly cut Ling and her Wheeler to pieces. We've had too many people from the Satellite ruining our reputation. Now here's my golden question or you, Yamichi; why do you care so much? Are you associated with Takeshi?"

Luckily for Yamichi, Rex was forced to leave it at that; partly because the news about losing Takeshi was, indeed, troublesome to deal with. Also, he wanted to try to lull Yamichi into a false sense of security. Granted, he may already have done just that. But if he openly added he had paused investigating him due to considering he was linked with the Fiend and Takeshi ... that definitely wouldn't work well for him.

"Lost?! How?! Oi! Put him down, boy! He's my assistant. Let me deal with him appropriately."

And yet, despite his words, he stood still. Watched .... observed.

This was not the reaction of someone who was always shy and generous. No. This was the attitude of someone pissed off about a comrade. Which made him suppress a smirk. It seemed that investigation wasn't such a useless idea. He only regretted having everyone put it on hold. Never again; he couldn't second guess himself like that again. That was what this display taught Goodwin.

"Noted, but I still stand by my belief. You could have done well. Perhaps even prevented something like this personally from happening. Take care, Yamichi."

He would then take note - with his own eyes - Ling was indeed outside. She had been right in assuming there were cameras. They were simply incredibly small - borderline microscopic - in addition to very well hidden.

"I'm sorry about that, Yamichi. I really was going to to help .... "

A frown had now visibly formed on Ling's face. She gently rubbed Yamichi's back, hoping to calm him down, even if only a bit. Damnit. At this rate, anything she had thought about would likely need to be put on hold. It wasn't Yamichi's fault though ... nor could she blame him. One of these days, no unwanted bullshit like this would come up and they could move onto the next step in their relationship. Uninterrupted, too.

Rex would sigh, shaking his head in disappointment. "Tempting, but no. I'd love to give you the green light - for both of them at that matter. Now, however, would not be the smartest time. So ... as far as Takeshi-kun goes, have the guards start doing an investigation, beginning with the security footage. Something must have been seen, no matter how brief. As for Yamichi and Ling?"

Now he allowed his smirk to emerge.

"Resume investigating Yamichi. Immediately - but keep it quiet. If push ever comes to shove .... we have leverage to use against him."

But that was why it would be saved for the most desperate of measures. Even the non-believers in Ling would disapprove if she were used in such a low manner, just because of the methods it implied. Still, having a possible plan to use in the future was always good. Like Yamichi noted and dictated - the Director never did anything for the hell of it. That much had been true.
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Fayth and Jack would finally arrive back, with the former King finding someone waiting for him; Mister Evans.

"Welcome back, Atlas. Mr. Goodwin took up your advice and left his message on what he wanted to speak about to me. It's in regards to your mansion; you can keep it. He admits no agreement was made for you to remain King in order to keep it, and thus won't resort to any rash, unjust decisions. Would either of you like something to eat soon?"

That caused Fayth to elicit a sigh of relief. Even if the gesture was truly being done to avoid anymore negative backlash, she was comforted by this news all the same. She had actually intended to ask Jack that question this morning; what would happen if he lost?

But it partly slipped her mind, and then also didn't sound appropriate to ask. Maybe not wrong, but certainly too pessimistic, if nothing else. So she was relieved that no matter what, there wouldn't be worries to relocate.

"I umm .... I kind of would. If you don't mind."

"Of course not. I'm a butler. And while you're Jack's guest, I'm your butler also. Do you have any allergies, Miss Milner?"

"No."

And after hearing Jack's response, he would bow, before turning to leave, "Very well. I'll go get some dinner made straight away."

Fayth would wait until she heard Mr. Evans leave before very slowly standing up, keeping at least one hand on her Wheeler to support her. "I ummm .... I don't trust myself still. Hope you don't mind."

She tried to reach for a shoulder to hold onto - only to find he was a bit too tall.

Should have figured, Fayth thought, recalling all the times she'd spoken and heard his voice. So, instead, she wrapped her arm around his waist.

"You have no idea how relieved I was your Sign didn't go off when you fought Ling. Today was hellish enough in that regard .... "
 
"Of course, Director...Anything you need." Yeager would say with a grin of his own; he would be happy to find any dirt he could on the impudent little shit. He'd make he rued the day he got handsy with him! "Then if there's nothing else, sir...I'll get the Special Investigations Unit up to speed. Till then, rest well!" he then said in a rather shocking change of tone. If there was one thing he loved, it was sniffing out a rat...So only to crush it beneath his heel.

Yamichi tried not to show too much; he knew he'd likely gone overboard manhandling that guy as he did. But first he nearly lost Hotsuma and Yuna (twice in fact), and now Takeshi was missing. Ling would feel though, the subtle shakes that racked his body as she tried to comfort him. God bless her, he thought; he must look so pathetic.

His eyes shone with unshed tears, the bottoms glistening wet as he sniffed to try and hold it in for as long as he could...But once they got to the elevator, that was when the dam broke. The tech's knees just felt like they lost their strength, landing with an audible thump as he hunched over and cried. All he wanted was for Goodwin not to see it, at least not in person. His hands weakly gripped the floor as she said she would have helped.

"Ling...You don't need to say that...I know you would have, and that means a lot." he said, sitting up a little straighter and wiping his eyes on his sleeve; he didn't feel a whole lot better, to be honest, but at least he'd gotten the worst of it out of his system. But really, was it too much to ask to have more than just a few days of no bad crap happening? Last place he figured it would happen was here in the Tops of all places.

Finally able to stand on his feet, he turned and embraced her, whispering genuinely "Sorry for that...Just, I had hoped to at least go and assure him we'd get him out, you know? No one deserves to get locked up like that, regardless of affiliation. But...Thanks for coming with me. Means a lot." Of course, he was choosing his words carefully, just in case Goodwin had the elevator bugged. He was sure his outburst would make the man look more closely at him; if anything, he was certain the guy knew he was linked with Takeshi now.

But that didn't matter; he would have to do whatever he could to find out where his friend went.

However, as they would walk out of the stadium, Ling and Yamichi would soon find themselves swarmed at the barricades by newfound fans of hers. Thankfully, Sector seemed to be around to keep the crowds from getting too out of control. One officer approached the pair and said, "Your Runners were pulled from the garages inside and are parked in the reserved spaces out front. Don't worry, Sector has kept a close eye on them. Just try to be careful." the officer said over the screams and shouts for autographs from the 'New Dragon Queen' among other (genuinely flattering) titles people came up with for her.

Yamichi nodded solemnly, "Thanks..." before turning to his girlfriend "At least we've got one more night at the hotel if we want it. You don't....you know, if you joined the other guys and myself, do you? Just kind of want to be around others, you know?"

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Despite his best efforts, he and Fayth got momentarily swarmed by fans who still seemed to regard as the 'King'; thankfully, all he had to do was sign a couple of autographs before Sector allowed him and Fayth to get back home.

Upon hearing that Goodwin had indeed called...He honestly felt himself relieved. He didn't know what he would do, honestly; he'd lived here for so long now, and had only earned money through his sponsorship contracts. To hear that Goodwin was going allow him to live here? That was incredible and all...But that still came with the issue of what would he do for a living? The only sizable income he would have would be the revenue from the movie sales that was being produced about him...A thought that kind of nauseated him. Would people even see it now that he was dethroned?

Did he even want to see it, considering he'd got to where he was by stepping over others?

"Thank you, Mister Evans...I'll have my usual this evening, if it's all the same." he would say, looking down at Fayth as she rested her hand on his shoulder. It was here he noticed that she was a good deal shorter than him...But given what she apparently did back in her real home, her stature must work in her favor.

"True; I've rather had enough of it myself..." Jack would say aloud, adding mentally "Even more so now that this little plan of yours fell flat on its face, Goodwin." Honestly, it wasn't the fact that he lost irked him; it was more that he put his title on the line for what seemed like nothing. Only made his arm and his pride sore, try as much as he could to hide the wound to the latter.

"Fayth....I want to answer a question for me honestly. Do you think people will think less of me...Now that I'm not the King anymore? Do you think I'll just....fall away into obscurity?" he would then say; so much of his life had been spent in the spotlight that he'd come to expect it. The roars of adoration, the acknowledgment and exaltation of his skill as a Duelist. He had no real other skills besides that, that much he knew. And honestly? The thought of losing it all kind of scared him.
 

"Jack? You okay?"

It'd likely been a subconscious reaction, but his pace slowed, finally stopping with walking altogether towards the mansion. Her head turned, tilting up. She didn't need to ask, interestingly enough. He very openly voiced his concern, what was haunting him then and there. She already knew her answer rather well - but before saying it, she wanted to be able to back up her words. And that, more than anything else, was what kept Fayth silent for a bit over a minute.

"A few may forget you anyway, simply because some people have those types of tendencies and toxic nature to do so. Especially in this dimension. However ... overall? No, actually. In fact ... your Pendulum counterpart was recently dethroned also. Despite this, he's become one of the Lancer's best allies."

A knowing smirk spead over her face.

"How do you think me and Reiji have been able to speak of him? If he kept himself too secluded - like he did used to do - we wouldn't be able to talk about him at all. Least of all knowing him in a better, brighter light. If your worry is what to do now?"

Her left fingers tapped against the denim of her jeans as Fayth slowly nodded.

"I can probably make one last call to Reiji. Last as in I won't be able to contact him likely in a long while. Anyway .... considering Pendulum Jack also got recently dethroned, he's doing something, obviously. I can probably ask what to help give you some ideas. I promise you, though, it's not like this is the end for you. If anything, it's a new beginning. You don't have to be proverbially shackled down anymore. Nor used. I know well enough this was what you wanted; I haven't forgotten that. But maybe ... was there ever anything else you desired that you tried to deny yourself?"

The question would linger a few moments before Fayth smiled gently.

"You may not immediately know that answer, and that's fine. These things are going to take time. Just keep staying calm like you have been and don't succumb to any unnecessary panic attacks. I'll do all I can on my behalf to help out. Promise."
 
Jack just listened as he would walk inside the grand estate with his new companion; to call her a room-mate would be fitting sure, but there were too many rooms for that to be truly applicable. It was interesting that she was able to pick up on his turmoil, even asking without really needing to. And while her words made sense...Well, it was still only today he'd lost his title. How that would play out in the rest of ways would remain to be seen.

Even so...He was more than a little glad she was here now, helping him even if he didn't have all the answers yet himself. But it was more surprising to hear that his Pendulum self also was defeated; so, was it a matter of fate then? Heavy is the head that wears the crown, indeed. A bittersweet thought, in truth...But maybe now he could start trying to figure out more things for himself. And not let anyone use him ever again.

So in another way, she was also right. This was a new road...One he'd make for himself.

"In all honesty....Dueling has been my life. I always wanted to entertain people, to make them happy to see an action-packed duel. To give people a reason to smile...You might have figured it out by now, but being able to even do that in the Satellite's kind of hard. Especially now I imagine, with all the trouble this Yuna and her Fiend are causing."

He couldn't say he was happy right now with how he got into the Tops...But a part of him was definitely glad to have a reprieve. Even so...He did want to try and reconnect with Yusei, Crow and the rest. It was a long time and he imagined there would be some blood, especially after what happened with Kiryu, along with Yusei and himself. Even so...He couldn't stand idly by anymore. "I appreciate the offer Fayth...But if you're going to call him, do it as a friend. I see now that I have to make my own way in life, even if my Pendulum self could give insights...Still wouldn't feel like I had done anything to improve by own hand."

Then in a surprising move, he raised a hand and placed it gently on top of Fayth's head, giving it an ever-so-slight rub, "I know, Fayth. You're a good person...Probably too good for the likes of me. But, I can safely say - perhaps now more than before - that I'm glad we met. Talking with you has been enlightening, on many levels."

However, before things could get too much more awkward, dinner would be served. Jack's own meal was a seared chicken dish over steamed vegetables with some rice on the side, nothing too great. If he bothered to learn, he could probably cook stuff like this himself...But he supposed that was something else he would need to work on. Being more self-sufficient.

"So Fayth...Potential conflicts aside...You mentioned my Pendulum self having been dethroned." he would say as he paused from eating, asking "Considering what I was like when I first met, it sounds like this other me and myself are almost the same. What exactly is the Pendulum Dimension alike? Aside from having to fight this 'Academia' and all?"
 

A frown crossed her face as she shook her head.

"I don't think the source of the problems are from Yuna, nor even The Fiend. When I first went to the Satellite and bought all the cards to create my angel deck with Yusei, it held a very dreadful aura around it. And that was before all of our arrests. Whatever issues are being a consistent problem there, I really don't think they're the source .... not for the pessimistic atmosphere, anyway. Maybe some other factors, like the Facility being unavailable, yes. But frankly?"

Fayth shrugged.

"I'm kinda glad they overtook it. It .... really was the most - one of them anyway - inhumane situations I'd ever been in."

It went without saying, but it damn well nearly beat Sora blinding her. With her feeling confident Jack could piece that much together, Fayth figured he could deduce how bad the prison used to be.

"Sorry if I seem like I'm taking sides. But ... it feels like, for so long, you've been misled, misinformed about certain things. It's not only because I owe Yuna a lot. It just is the truth. I can't question if whatever picture Goodwin showed was real or not; however, recent is another question that feels relevant ... and it is exactly why I know Yuna and Hotsuma aren't at fault for all the unfortunate circumstances in the Satellite. If any major moves from either of them would have been made, I would have heard about it. Hell, the entire tournament probably would have been cancelled."

Fayth would nod, acknowledging Jack's response about her offer to call Reiji up. Smiling, even. Good. Hopefully it'd make everything she just said stronger; not to rub it in his face, but to help him understand just how much he truly needed to work on.

The patting of her head definitely made Fayth flush. And yet ... she didn't move away, or try to smack Jack's hand off like he may have expected. Instead, she giggled softly, though there was a clearly nervous tone to it.

"The likes of you? Don't word it like that. Makes you sound like you're actually an assassin or something. You're not - or if you are, you've passed up tons of chances to get rid of me. Trust me, compared to a lot of others I've met, you're nowhere near the absolute worst individual I've met. A few flaws here and there, but who doesn't have at least one nowadays?" Her smile would widen as she gave another affirmative nod. "I'm also glad we met, even if originally it was just for a mission."

Soon, they would hear Mister Evans announce dinner was done and ready. the two would walk into the living room, with Fayth more than eagerly taking a seat. She already knew how she wanted to use the rest of this evening; do a bit more talking, get a nice, long bath in so she could soak her muscles, and then sleep. Sleep like there was no tomorrow, with finally not having to worry about waking up or being bothered in the god-awful, early hours of the morning.

Luckily, Fayth understood Jack was asking about his other self due to curiosity, not narcissism like others may have tried to assume. "In all honesty? I haven't met your Pendulum counterpart. Most of the info I have on him is from Reiji. So I'm probably missing some details myself. From what I have heard, however, he's almost exactly like you. He duels to entertain - though I feel it's much simple to achieve over int he Pendulum Dimension. We have Action Duels, where you the scenery actually matters. You can use it and even your own monsters to your advantage."

A brief pause allowed Fayth to come up with a good example.

"If you saw any of the Action Trap or Magic cards on a cliff or otherwise impossible to reach surface, you could ride on your Red Daemon's Dragon and fly up to get it. There is one other major difference between these worlds and your other half. He doesn't use Red Daemon's Dragon for his ace. He uses Red Daemon's Dragon Scarlight. You know how you said my Red Daemon's Dragon Tyrant felt like an evolution of your ace card? In the simplest of terms - it sorta is. So your other half is using yet another form of Red Daemon's Dragon."

And with that revelation, Fayth would cease yet again. Bu now it was more to focus on her meal, while simultaneously allowing Jack to soak all of this new information in.
 
Jack was obviously still skeptical about her claims to Yuna and this 'Hotsuma' being innocent. Granted, he could believe the former far more easily; Fayth had even said the woman helped her survive the Facility. But Hotsuma? He couldn't help but wonder if that was the Fiend's name; he still had some things he needed to check in on with Goodwin, and that would be a question he would have. Because from all the reports he'd seen and the times he'd found Goodwin hard at work on a case involving him, the man sounded like a mad brute.

Even so, he found himself impressed to overthrow a place as well-fortified as the Facility just by the efforts of two people. He'd like to put a face to the names at some point though, if only to sate his own curiosity. More so of Hotsuma, since Yuna's real face was all but exposed on public airwaves.

All the same, that was a topic for another time, smiling as she indirectly complimented him. Well...At least he'd managed to turn one person's opinion of him around. And when she started talking about how people could apparently fly on Duel Monsters? That definitely got his attention; was technology really that advanced? It sounded like it; Fayth may have been a lot of things, but he couldn't imagine she would lie about this. Not after everything he'd seen.

"Red Daemon's Dragon...Scarlight? How very interesting...If it were all possible, I would love to see one of these 'Action Duels' in person. They sound extremely entertaining, especially if they can use their own monsters to traverse the battlefield." he would say; honestly, he was kind of wondering how that would even go. Would Red Daemon even want to be ridden like a common mule? No, he couldn't see himself reducing his strongest monster to such a petty role. It was far too glorious for such a simple notion as that.

And for a while, they continued to talk...Jack seeming to enjoy her company very much. And he was smiling more, even if he was still deeply conflicted. In truth, just being able to be around someone normally was enough of a reward.

But....Soon enough the meal would come to an end. The staff coming forward to clear their plates for them. Jack then said, "Well...Fayth, I just want to thank you again. Having someone around has been nice. With everything that happened today, however, I think I'm going to turn in. Don't be afraid to ask for anything though; one of the staff will be happy to make sure you stay as comfortable as possible."

And with that, the two would part ways....For now.
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Back in Yomi...Things weren't quite so peachy for the former leader. Even if he'd tried to brush it off...Yuna's dismissal of his outrage as being a 'whiny bitch' stung. And as such, he knew the only other way in this place to work off his steam. Luckily, the rec center was well stocked with all sorts of equipment; being the Facility though, it was heavily dilapidated and run-down. But, one thing that was accomplished was the repairs to the more broken pieces. It wasn't fantastic looking, but each station worked a hell of a lot better than it used to.

And because he was in such an amped and pissed-off mood...He used his powers to have the demons make sure no one bothered him. And as the Fortune Cup had gone on without him, he'd hit every station hard. It was but one reason he was more built now than he was before...With him having no real release now that he and Yuna weren't an item, along with the fact that he didn't want to do it with anyone but her, he needed a way to get rid of his anger and frustration. Luckily, the extra physical exercise was more than welcome

Unlike Yuna...He'd tried to do it himself, but it just didn't do anything. Something even the Emperor had commented on.

"Being pent-up isn't going to do you any good. You should know there are a couple of women here drawn to you, even if you don't notice it. I'm sure they'll be happy to relieve you." he heard his contract say to him, the ex-commander of the Disciples snorting derisively as

"That's no business of yours...Now fuck off. I can get it done like this...Why you even care is beyond me. " Hotsuma snarked, his attention focused on a badly-beaten punching bag. An equally battered picture of Goodwin's face hung on it, driving his rage towards him and even toward Yuna. Remembering word for word how their last conversation went.

NO, I HAVEN'T HAD TO BURY MY FAMILY! BUT YOU KNOW WHAT?! THEY MAY AS WELL BE DEAD! AT LEAST YOU HAD A FAMILY THAT LOVED YOU! DO YOU KNOW WHAT I'D GIVE TO HAVE HAD EVEN A FEW SECONDS OF THAT SORT OF UNCONDITIONAL LOVE?!

That bit in particular absolutely made his blood boil; by all accounts her family was still alive. As far as he was concerned? She gave up trying...What if she had a sibling she didn't know about? Would she just let her rot there? What if her parents had changed and started to want her back?

"Fucking...Bitch...!" he grunted, hitting the bag harder with each consecutive strike; the chain in the ceiling that held it up started to creak as he relentlessly wailed on it. The Emperor's influence on his inner aggression starting to make his aura flare up very noticeably, his body responding well to the external and internal changes. "At least you still have a family....People who could love you! People who do love you!" was his next utterance, his fists flying harder and faster, the screws for the eyebolt starting to loosen from their holes.

"You talk to me like I'm trash...And you won't even give them a second chance! Your own blood...You'd just leave them for dead..."

*POM POM POM POM POM*

"I gave up my life for my brother...Risked death to get back the only thing that matters in this cursed world...At least I don't back down...."

*POM-POM-POM-POM-POM-POM*

Sweat poured off his forehead and ran over his exposed skin, the flesh of his knuckles starting to crack and split as he kept up the frenzied pace. The mark on his chest also seeming to stretch outward, snaking along his exposed torso and neck like a plague virus. The black bead on his forearm also reacting, small black tendrils going up the underside, as if trying to join with its twisting brethren. His brewing tempest of ire fueling its spread.

"AT LEAST I DON'T RUN AWAY!"

And with one last punch, the bag's chain ripped itself from the ceiling, causing the heavy object to thud audibly on the floor. Hotsuma, exhausted and feeling the salt of his sweat sting the splits in his hands and his eyes, collapsed to all fours. Blood leaking from his knuckle wounds and starting to fall off his hands, similar crimson spots dotting the surface of the fallen punching bag. His heart raced like a beast possessed, his mouth open as he gasped for air. His body felt sore all over, having used nearly every machine in there; his extremities shook as he finally allowed himself to get a second wind. The mark and the bead's tendrils stopping in their motions, still pulsing visibly against his skin before beginning to recede slowly. Still very prominent, but now it wasn't looking like some kind of alien bug trying to dominate his body.

"Better now?" he then heard the Emperor ask, Hotsuma replying as his aura began to settle out but still putting off a repulsive pressure over the area of the gym, "Much...Though probably won't be if I have to talk to her anytime soon. Seriously considering having her kick my ass out by breaking Hajime's jaw or something. Really give her a reason to want me gone."

It was this that made the Emperor smile inside; good, he thought. Soon, he'd drive a wedge so far between them that he could finally put the rest of his plan into action. She was annoyingly good at helping to anchor Hotsuma's turbulent psyche...This whole place was, in fact. But....Much like trying to crack steel with a stone, it was all about finding the chink in the work. A weak point, and carefully applying as much pressure as one could to provide the desired ultimate failure.


______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________​
Upstairs, hoots and hollers would be heard as the Finals came to an end. Cheers erupting for Ling having won it and her display at bringing Fayth forward, excited how the Tops' prized champion was beaten. And by a girl no less, though it was more the fact that he was dethroned at all that made them happy.

However...Their celebrations would come to a pause as the Demon Commander and a trio of Demon Soldiers approached Yuna and Hajime near the main sofa of the entertainment, the three guards in perfect wedge formation. "Yuna...This repulsive gremlin has an urgent message. I would have given to the Lord, but he gave us instruction to not disturb him at the moment." the Commander holding up an arm to reveal to a very skinny and bulging-eyed demon in his sharp-clawed hands, weakly struggling. Its frail body - only a tattered cloth to hide its shame and its wings far too small even for its petite form to be remotely effective - looked badly bruised, like it had gotten into a fight, and under its right eye was a sizable gash that bled black liquid, the wound slowly healing shut.

"Well...Go on, runt. Tell her what you found...." the Commander growled, the little demon squeaking and hiding behind Yuna's legs. The three Demon Soldiers growled harshly and advanced, reaching for their blades before it finally spoke. Its voice was feeble and raspy, like it was someone who didn't drink water for a week.

"Was sent by Lord....Instructed to find taken boy...But boy not in 'Tops' anymore...Boy here...Taken by dangerous foes! Very dangerous!" it half-shouted, continuing to use Yuna as a shield, "Master said that if I find where 'Takeshi' is...He reward me. If it is beating like before though....I not want it." The Commander snarled, "Impudent wretch; you suffered because you grossly overestimated yourself in comparison to Him. You paid for your act of foolishness...Speak like that again and I'll sever those useless stumps from your hide and bludgeon you to death with them!"


This statement sent the tiny creature scurrying, now hiding behind Hajime, its misshapen long head poking out just enough to keep a wary, crimson eye on the giant demon that threatened its very life.
 
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.... Crap ...

In all honesty, Fayth hadn't intended to say Hotsuma's name. Just as a sign of her own faith, and if only because Yuna hinted he truly was as conflicted as she assumed. He hadn't wanted to hurt her. She did believe that, even more so with learning of his and Yuna's powers.

Oh well. For now, the name by itself meant nothing. Besides, what were the odds he'd learn she let that accidentally slip?

Though she couldn't see the smile, she could 'feel' it when Jack tried to imagine how action duels went. "I do have some recorded on my disk. I can show you if you ever want to see them. But ... not now. I'm also worn out."

Fayth would stretch as she stood up, extending her arms briefly above her head before lowering them to her sides.

"Mmmm, indeed. It ... definitely has been more pleasant to have these conversations. Rest well, Jack."

He wasn't the only one who had some 'what now?' thinking to do. Fayth had a bit to do; both short and long-term. Upon entering her room, she would grab a new nightgown to change into afterwards and take it with her. The bathroom door would close ... and then she'd begin stripping.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________​

Yuna felt ... tormented. On one hand, she was truthfully a bit annoyed Fayth hadn't been able to go against Jack. But, on the plus side, someone had beaten him. A woman, to make it all the more interesting.

Her head tilted as a certain part of the post-tournament celebrations were filmed.

Ohhh? Hehe ... Fayth, you sneaky bitch. You bewitched Jack! Cute!

She probably didn't really do such a thing. Still, it'd be interesting to jest to her about, especially now that she had a good idea where to find her so she could visit her. No strings attached this time though; she truly did feel crappy their last encounter had been full of bad news.

So now what? Hajime asked.

I was kinda wondering that myself. Probably --

But before Yuna could finish voicing her thoughts, some of the demons walked in. That alone caused her to raise her eyebrows. Usually, they answered and went straight to Hotsuma. There had been almost no times they ever sought her out. Luckily, she didn't need to wait long to hear an explanation. And if she hadn't already worn a skeptical enough expression, it only strengthened as the newest 'recruit' - from what she could assume - stepped forth.

Although Yuna still loathed his transforming abilities, it had been a talk she'd lost long ago. So .... she tried to accept it as best as possible. That had just been one of the few things she couldn't talk Hotsuma out of not doing ever again.

Fine, fine. Go on with your report ....

And when she heard the words 'dangerous people', Yuna's eyes narrowed.

Who?! Kiryu andhis new pals?! Who was it?!

Goddamnit. Not what she wanted to hear. Nor what Hotsuma would want to. But that was why she needed to confirm if she was even freaking out over the right concern or not. She barely snuck a sideways glance a her blue-haired lieutenant before he nodded, smiling.

You're an open book to me. Five steps ahead of you, Yuna.

Both would kneel down before the transformed Mihara, with Hajime placing his left hand atop the smaller demon's head. His right remained on top of Yuna's shoulder to ensure the flashback would remain linked between the two. The face was a different one, but those robes. No mistaking it ... it was them.

FUCK! Yuna snarled, latching tightly onto her lower lip before glaring down to the demon. How long ago was this?! When did those fuckfaces take Takeshi away?! How long ago?!
 
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"K-kiryu? I know no such person..." the imp stammered; it could only assume that whoever that person was with somehow an ally to the people that had Takeshi. "But yes...Takeshi was among them. I sought him out, as ordered by the Lord...Or rather, His vessel."

The tiny demon shuddered as Yuna appeared to become quite animated when it mentioned that Takeshi was seen, stilling as Hajime would use his own abilities to form a link with it. The images were hazy at first, like it was trying to adjust the bunny ears on an old television set. But they quickly focused, showing the world through the eyes of the demon. It was not too far from where Yomi used to be, the building a scorched and shattered ruin after Hotsuma destroyed it to give Sector nothing to work with in case they came snooping around.

The image became only slightly blurry as its tiny form scampered across the building, still searching through various empty buildings until it came across an open stretch of land where there was a large burned-out trench of scarred land, that happened to form a rough circle. No one in the Satellite really knew what had caused it, only that the inside was slippery smooth with just the right roughness to ride on. When kids weren't using it to do tricks on skateboards and such, Duel Gangs often used it as a course for having their own versions of illegal Turbo Duels. It even had a name, 'Death Ring'. A fitting name considering that because of how the track was laid out, more than one gang member had met their end after sliding along the surface and colliding with the opposing rider's machine. Or if that didn't happen, those that didn't land on their head got launched out and skidded across the broken land above the trench.

The image then turned, as if the demon was about to go look somewhere else...But Hajime would feel that it sensed something, and it would turn to its right. Right in the field of view was something Yuna would recognize instantly: A spider identical in every way to the one that silenced her voice, except it was the size of a city bus. And on it was a bald-headed dark-skinned male and a woman with long raven hair. Both wearing the same style of robe Kiryu did, except the man's accents were a darkened yellow and the woman's were a deep forest green.

And between them lay an unconscious figure; the sight of the demon seemed to automatically adjust, much like a telescopic lens....And when it stabilized, the sight of Takeshi was unmistakable. It then ran towards it, trying to follow the giant arachnid without being spotted...However, a pained screech would resonate in both of their minds as it stopped in its tracks. The man in the yellow-trim robes suddenly appeared before the creature, a sick grin on his face as a booted foot then rapidly crushed against the creature's face. The vision distorting before a hard 'crack' was heard, evidence of the creature landing against a wall or a pile of rubble. A weak gasp leaving its throat as it tried to stand back up...Before long its face stomped underfoot.

"What's this now...A spy? Lord Rutger has had enough interference from meddlers..." the muttered, standing over the creature as he pulled a fist back...And struck the demon. Again and again, the creature howled as the man pummeled him with the intent to kill. Blow after blow, punches followed by kicks and stomps...All delivered with what was inarguably unnatural strength for a mortal man.

"Demak!"

Then came a female voice, the hazy and splotchy vision looking towards the source with enough clarity for both Yuna and Hajime to make out an image: The woman sitting atop the giant spider looking down at the pair from on high. "Don't waste your time; it is beaten. Besides, you said it yourself. He's waited long enough...So, if you're quite finished." she then added in a somewhat haughty tone, Demak looking between her and the tiny demon. "Tch...Be thankful I have more urgent business than ending you, dreg. Know this: If I ever see you again, Misty will not be around to save you."

And with a powerful leap, Demak jumped back on top of the spider as its vision faded to black...And with that, the flashback would end.

Now free of the connection, the tiny demon shuddered hard and held itself. "Man was scary.....Man hurt....Barely escaped alive. Found Takeshi...But not know where he was taken. Woke up to find them gone. No traces to be found...No concept of time either. Was not long, however; sun was still high, as it is now." The little creature then wrung its bony hands, asking Yuna "Did...Good, yes? Pleased?"
 

Yuna couldn't help but scoff and roll her eyes as she saw that bitch again. Misty.

Go figure; she failed at interrogation, so she's gotta be good at something aside from being a pretty face, huh?

Mentally noting that Misty seemed to be decent enough with asks including espionage, Yuna paced back and forth a few times. Purposely cutting herself off from Hajime so she could scream and curse loudly without hurting anyone else's ears. Her expression, clenched fists, and the fact her mouth moved at all would give a hint, sure. But right now, Yuna didn't feel like sharing her internal thoughts with anyone else.

What?! Yuna snapped, her head turning as she felt Hajime place a hand gently back on her shoulder.

His mark .... it's going off.

.... Yay. Lovely.

So either he already knew the news somehow ... or was in an even more pissed off mood. God forbid case C should be it, as that would mean both applied.

Her attention would go back to the smaller demon as it answered her questions. Not the reply Yuna would have wanted to hear, but it was better than nothing.

So very recently, huh? Well .... that actually helps. So here's my golden question for ya; how are you completely sure they're still here and didn't go to the Tops?

The thought was a valid enough concern, especially because that had been where Yuna was held. So ... was that why they decided to change locations? Because they were hoping they'd go in the wrong section of town? No matter. Once she came up with a plan - with or without Hotsuma's help - she'd prove those bastards wrong. Of course, she'd prefer that Hosuma could redirect his anger away from her and put it to a much more productive use. But ... it was a wishful thought for now.

Hotsuma had already proven - very recently too - he could keep grudges for unnecessarily long periods of time.

So ... Yuna was fully expecting for him to help out - though not before getting a hit he'd wanted in.

Whatever. Heh. Joke's on those fucktards, Yuna darkly thought, trying to wait as patiently for the imp-like creature to respond.
 

The tiny demon actually seemed proud of itself that Yuna had said its information was helpful, its hands never seeming to stop rubbing against each other. However, when she asked her next question, its expression became what could only be described as crestfallen. "Is sorry...Lost sight of Takeshi. But knows not back in Tops...Going wrong way for that. Satellite in direction giant spider was heading, further into it....Tops in opposite direction. Takeshi here in Satellite, am certain!" it then proclaimed, adding "Also...Can feel energy from man that attacked. Still here....Faint, but present. Would not be in Tops if that was true, can say certainly!"

"Feh...Why our Lord wastes time with these pathetic vermin is inexplicable. They are not even true Demons, just low-class hybrids. Can't even complete the job of finding what it was supposed to be looking for." said the Commander, having watched the entire spectacle. The tiny demon whimpered at the larger demon's voice and hid behind Yuna again, the Commander growling at the obvious sign of weakness, "Be thankful his Lordship deems you valuable enough to keep you alive, vermin. Were we back in our realm, you would either be subject to the Princess' whims or tossed into the Giant's cage for food."

At the mention of Lordship, however, the demon stood up straight and said rather excitedly, "Yes! His Lordship must know right away!" And before anyone could stop him, the imp took off again down to the gym center. "Hehe...Perhaps now the rodent will be well and truly squashed. The less of those pathetic insects infesting the Palabyrinth, the better off we Demons will be. if that one's idiotic enough to defy a direct order of being left alone, he deserves whatever punishment befalls him." the Commander chimed in once more, the soldiers that surrounded chuckling in a strange mix of growls and clacking sounds.

In the gym room, Hotsuma had just finished wiping down the bag (after using the shower facility to clean himself off) and started to wrap his knuckles to stem the bloodflow when he heard someone coming down the hallway. "God damn it, I said don't bother me!" he shouted after giving a disgruntled sigh, but then saw a familiar figure rushing towards him. The tiny demon coming forward and bowing before Hotsuma, "Master, Master! Found Takeshi! Takeshi here, in Satellite! Abducted by dangerous robed people!"

Hotsuma's red eyes glared down at the creature, his aura increasing once again as the creature failed to elaborate exactly, "Well? Where is he then?" Even for those with high tolerance, the air would feel a good deal heavier inside the gym. Like the gravity was turned up just enough to make moving a little harder; the tiny demon however, seemed especially sensitive and squeaked weakly as Hotsuma's presence seemed to squeeze in all around. Effectively acting like a full-body vise grip.

"Not know....Was attacked...People were able sense me!" it choked out, wheezing just a little as it then looked up at Hotsuma. "Master! Please...Mercy! It hurts!" the creature begged, Hotsuma's lips contorting into a snarl before his foot connected with the creature's body, sending it bouncing twice across the floor before it stopped, its form unmoving before he would approach it again. The little demon struggling to push itself up. "You worthless sack of crap! You come back here without any real information on where he is!? You even know how big the Satellite is?!" At this Hotsuma raised his arm and let those black tendrils crawl from the underside, waving about threateningly.

"You've got five seconds to tell me what I want to know...Otherwise, you're dead."

However...After watching the small creature cower and beg for its life for a few moments, he eventually stopped. "God damn you're pathetic...Get out of here. I'll scour the Satellite myself." he grunted, the demon standing weakly upward before moving as fast it could out of the room. Sighing to himself, Hotsuma grabbed his duster and slid it on...Not knowing that the mark itself was still very much visible, even if the lines on his arm were hidden.

Eventually, he would reemerge to see Yuna and Hajime talking, a sour look crossing his face and his aura still heavy around him. Even the Soldiers noticeably winced a bit as he would come into the room. "Well...Good news, Yuna! Turns out Takeshi ain't in the Tops...So if I'm still free to go, I'm going to get Takeshi now. Even if it means I have to turn the whole Satellite upside down to find him." His eyes narrowed as he would go to walk past her, adding in a snarky tone, "Even if it means you have to kick me out....Whatever. I know the Satellite just as well as you do, after all, maybe even better. But with or without your permission, I'm not letting anyone just cross my guy like that." Pausing for a moment in his steps, he then finished with "But don't worry, I'll be back before curfew."
 

.... Fine. Fair point. I suppose it did go the wrong way or the Tops. Fine.

Yuna sighed, plopping back down on the couch and beginning trying to conjure a plan. The most dominant though that entered her head, unfortunately, was regret. She really hated not convincing Takeshi to leave her side and let her handle that stupid gun fight by herself. Her head shook as a grimace spread over her face. Although the scurrying of the small demon was heard, it wasn't paid much heed. She had more important shit to handle.

After a minute or so, she made a 'come here' motion to Hajime.

So ... you're probably gonna have to --

... Breaks. What were those?

The things Yuna and all members of the Disciples and Yomi were direly overdue for. A frustrated sigh passed her lips. She didn't even wait for Hotsuma to finish speaking before standing in front of him, shaking her head adamantly.

Not alone. Fuck and no.

One hand would go atop Hotsuma's shoulder to ensure he heard her. The other hand rose beside her head, hinting there was a part two to those words.

I want Takeshi back also. Make no mistake about that. But - literally - look at me. Think back to the two weeks worth of crap I showed you. Kiryu didn't have to touch me to seal Rose away. You may have an Emperor, but that does not make him immune to things like this. And it's been, as we discussed, almost a month since this happened. This state I'm in may very well be permanent. Do you really wanna rush out and take that risk?

Her head moved again from side to side.

This requires planning. Besides, you just admitted you have no idea where he is. Going off the memory me and Hajime saw from your new recruit's mind, there's more people than I personally saw while being held captive. So at least four people. And only two of their identities - as well as powers - are known. There may be more. Probably are, if I had to guess. I'd really, really, really prefer you stop and talk to me to figure a plan out. But if you must insist on leaving? Then you're not doing so alone. That's not up for negotiation.

Her left hand mvoed from being beside her head to pointing at herself.

It's my fault Takeshi was linked to us to begin with. I need to make up for that. Which means I either go with you now ... or we wait and do this in a smarter, more methodical way. But the moment your Emperor gets sealed? It won't just be Takeshi who's screwed; we all will be also. So please ... think carefully.

For the time being, Hajime stayed calmly near the couch. However, he listened closely, and watched even more so. Namely with Hotsuma and how he'd react to all of this.
 

Hotsuma glared down at Yuna as she stood in front of him, his lips forming into a hint of a bare-toothed grimace; the fuck was her deal, anyway? Didn't she want him gone? Where was her whole schtick about him being free to leave but forfeiting any right to return?

And in fact, he would voice as such, "Feh...What the fuck do you care? You made it pretty damn clear that I don't belong here. Way I see it, I'm doing you a favor...Figured you'd be at least grateful for that much." How many times could someone change their mind in a day, he thought to himself. "Besides, last thing I want is to drag everyone into this shit. If you're worried about the demons turning on you, then don't."

And who said he would suffer her same fate? Emperor was a good deal stronger than Rose, of that much he was certain. And....Maybe with this, he might just finally get her to leave him be.

"Master...If I may..." then came a familiar raspy voice, Hotsuma turning his head to see the frail little demon approaching him from behind. The cold stare seemed to make the little demon shrink away, but its voice didn't fade, "Yuna is right; much we do not know. Would be unwise to go looking without more information...Would be willing to scout again, if it helps. Try to narrow down location. Until then...Best not to move too rashly, yes?"

Hotsuma let out a 'Tch', "You mean after you lost to some robed douchebags and couldn't pick up where Takeshi went? Yeah....Lot of help you'll be, you pathetic worm." Hotsuma didn't seem to catch himself using one of the Emperor's own common insults, turning now to face the shriveled imp. "Come here...." he commanded, the little demon refusing at first. The young man's face then contorted into an expression of sheer rage as he then shouted and pointed at the ground in front of him, "GET OVER HERE! NOW!"

The demon approached ever so slowly, body shaking and being cautious in his steps as he neared Hotsuma inch by inch...A few moments later, the tiny demon cowered before him, eyes looking down at the ground in abject terror. "Look at me..." Hotsuma then commanded, the creature lifting its head...And being dealt a swift kick that knocked it back to where it had been previously. "Next time...You best mind your tone. You're lucky to even be alive, Mihara....Remember that. You should be thankful I didn't kill you the night before, and that I found a way to make even remotely useful to us."
 
Look ....

Yuna paused, choosing her words as carefully as possible. Not that she couldn't handle a punch. But in all honesty? She didn't want to lose Hotsuma; not if it could be avoided.

Yes, I got upset you with you. Unfortunately, in my outburst, there were a few things I said out of anger, and others that were sincere. I definitely don't want you starting a senseless war, least of all against all of the Tops. If it's just against Goodwin? A whole different story, and something I'd be more willing to help out with. That being said, no .... I don't want you gone. You can feel that if you really don't believe me. We may not be the exact same as we were before .... but if absolutely nothing else, are we not - at the very least - partners still?

Maybe only in crime, yes. But at this rate, it was better than having all ties cut off.

I mean ... you must feel something. Enough that you joined the others in coming to get me. Don't you?

Her head shook - partly to make the tears stinging her eyes harder to see and also in response to his next sentences.

Yamichi was at the Fortune Cup! News about this incident is going to go around! And then ... it's not going to stay hidden from Shivini and Eikichi! Disciples and Yomi still work together, Hotsuma. You going out .... and putting yourself at risk. Do you not see this'll drag us all in by default?! We all look out for one another. That's what we've been doing all this time. Hasn't it been obvious yet we're not gonna stop now?

Yuna rose an arm, hastily moving it across her face and getting rid of any hints of tears trying to show on her face.

If you're still adamant on going, fine. Not alone though. I meant it - that's not up for discussion. Hajime? Get ready to take over for a bit.

Hajime merely sighed, obviously not happy to hear this. But ... Yuna was right. Leaving the fort alone and without a leader would be stupid. Especially because not everyone was here. He rose an eyebrow; goddamn. Hotsuma was mad over Yuna trying to talk sense into him?

At least he hadn't laid a hand on her. That was good enough.

However, his attention went back to the smaller demon as he heard Hotsuma utter the name 'Mihara'.

.... Wait a minute. Mihara? Mihara Kenzo? The same one from the selection tournament?

Yuna, also, was putting two and two together - at least in regards to the night he left wihtout saying where he went.

So .... this is what you did? she asked, barely hiding a grimace.

... I'm not going to be an idiot and say reverse it. But ... if too many people go missing, this sorta thing will be traced back. Eventually ... but it'll still happen all the same. You just said not too long ago you don't want everyone dragged into your messes, yeah? That's what this can end up doing if things go badly enough. So please - one more time - just think carefully about what you wanna do. I'm all for getting Takeshi back. I really am. But the smarter way would be heavily preferred. Please, Hotsuma ...
 

The ex-coleader of Yomi just kept that same annoyed expression as Yuna explained to and pleaded with not to be so foolish. "Tch...Don't bullshit me, you meant every damn word. At least have the balls to admit that much." he would reply, growing frustration evident in his tone as her words just seemed to do anything but assuage his anger." he would say, holding up a finger as he then added, "And for what I felt? I felt Yomi deserved a leader, one they knew and were familiar with. Good as Hajime did holding the fort down, you're the original. They know, they'll look up to you for guidance."

And it was here that he would deliver his final sentiments to her (largely unspoken) request about where they stood with each other. "THAT is all I felt when I came with them to get you. Hajime even said it himself: They had to keep themselves between you and me, remember? Nothing more, nothing less. Pretty sure we're both well past the point of trying to make this work. There's a reason behind my stepping down, which I thought you understood."

Even so...The fact she was crying? Maybe she did care more than he thought...But he wasn't exactly keen on trying to make her clarify how much. Because to him, it ultimately didn't matter.

And when she then got irritated with him about his transforming Mihara, "You say that as if Goodwin could even do anything; did you forget what happened when we first took over this place? Their officers were going to be missing in action whether we killed them or transformed them. You certainly didn't seem to care about it when you put one between the Chief's eyes. Self-defense or not...You really think Goodwin would care about the intent? Us even talking back would get us thrown in here, or did you forget about how petty Sector's brass was?"

Giving a huff he then said, "And if Goodwin did send any more of his goons here...I got a lot of aggression I need to work off. Kicking in some pig heads might actually be therapeutic, and we can do with some more bodies for security." Giving a slight grin, he then said, "Besides...I actually Dueled Mihara honorably; if I lost, I'd go with him. To where? I have no clue; he'd be stupid to take me here, so I knew he had no real leverage."

It was here that he grabbed Yuna's wrist, "Wanna see how it went? I think even you'll appreciate how this played out, hahaha." And whether she liked it or not, she would get a good glimpse of how their fight transpired:

The first part played out, of him dropping his Demon Fortress Field Magic into the massive crater hole. His vision traveling upward after a beam of light shot from the mouth, to see a green bolt of what looked like lightning coming down from the heavens to strike him down, the viewpoint playing out him tumbling down the slope before he would then see Mihara trying to grab him. And from here their Duel commenced.

Hotsuma seemed to be at a disadvantage at first, Mihara having Genocide-King and Inferno Queen Daemon in play, the latter having used its effect to boost the ATK of the former to 3000 and cut Hotsuma down to 5000 Life points. But in one turn, Hotsuma would turn it around. Having used Daemon's Roar to Special Summon his Daemon's Cavalry and Foolish Burial to send Double Resonator to the Graveyard, he then summoned Daemon Soldier...And in another move, that same dark miasma enveloped his side of the field, the dark orbs entering his Soldier and forcing its image to break apart. A black vortex appearing as Hotsuma Dark Synchro Summoned the same monster he used against Fayth, the twin heads howling in utter rage before the two sets of eyes then settled in a predatory manner on the Sector officer.

After that....Mihara tried to use 'Hate Buster' to destroy the massive beast. But because of Beelze's monster, the only thing he succeeded in doing was giving Hotsuma a weaker target to attack. A mad gleam in his eyes as Beelze's dark flames burned Mihara. And two turns later, a very sorely beaten and scarred Mihara could be seen on the ground, Hotsuma's Emperor and Beelze standing next to him as the oppressive aura faded. And then, Hotsuma would say 'Well now...Guess you get to hold up your end of the bargain. Don't worry, you'll get used to being my bitch soon enough.' And after extending his arm, those black tendrils rushed out and enveloped the prone male...Moments later falling away to reveal Mihara in the state they would see him in now. "Now...Who you do serve, maggot?" Hotsuma asked the demon with a wicked grin, Mihara looking up feebly and whispering "Y-you...I serve you...Master."

And once it was done, and only then would he let go. "Well? Not bad, right? Guess I still got it enough to whoop Sector's ass, eh?" Indeed, reliving that moment seemed to oddly cheer him up and make him smile.

Of course...He knew this wouldn't last, so he added "AND TO BE FAIR...The dickhead came after me first. Practically forced me to Duel, so you can't blame me for him biting off more than he could hope to chew. Now...If you REALLY want to come along, I guess I don't have a choice since you'd probably just follow me out anyway. That being said, we would have a much easier time tracking him down if we looked in different spots. Besides, our Runners have comms, right? We can tell each other where Takeshi is when we find him....How's that sound?"
 

You know I don't do that, Hotsuma. I never bullshit people. Fuck, I could have when you found out I wasn't Yukio. No, it wouldn't have worked, but that isn't the point. I still could have kept the guise up, lied right to your face. But I didn't ... because that's not who I am. I thought you knew that much about me.

The frown she'd barely kept hidden wold finally reveal as Yuna quickly moved her head from side to side.

Regardless, that's still something. You think I'm bullshitting you? Excuse me if it feels a bit more so the other way around - definitely technical as all fuck.

And although Yuna could keep - and maintain - a strong front pretty damn well, it crumbled slightly as Hotsuma gave a smile far too uneasy to simply gaze at. Even Kiryu had needed to do much more than speak or look eerily at her to make her uncomfortable.

You don't ... I mean, the results are pretty clear, given his state and and --

Unfortunately, she didn't step back far enough. To be fair, though, she'd need to do much more than that.

Hajime's eyes narrowed slightly. Aside from a bit shocked, Yuna a least wasn't wincing or giving any pained reactions from Hotsuma's touch. That was ample evidence o keep him in place. No, he didn't agree with Hotsuma forcing Yuna to watch something she'd tried to say no to. Intervening now, sadly, would only result in Yuna possibly getting hurt. And, worse off, losing Hotsuma for good.

Since she was trying to prevent that from happening, he would watch his tongue and actions - even if the man was steadily becoming more and more .... what was a good word? Vile? Not quite yet. Corrupt? He'd go with that for now, yeah. He definitely wasn't seeing the same Hotsuma from before, and that was worrying enough in his mind and eyes.

... No. No, I suppose not.

Her hand deftly wove through the air.

That's why I kept that topic brief. It's not the fact you changed Mihara I'm caring about. It's if this comes back to put this place at risk. For the longest time, we were confident in Yomi being safe. Impenetrable, even. And look how that turned out. Precaution -- because unless you or any of your guys had a plan C should this place fall, I don't feel like losing here, thank you very much. Anyway ...

Yuna could scarcely believe her luck.

No, this was definitely not the answer she would have preferred. Then again, it was far better than she expected. He was agreeing to let her join him, rather than knocking her out like she half-figured he would try to do.

Deal. That works perfectly. Yeah, agreed. I can check the warehouses near the docks. Okay, Hajime - confirmed. Watch over the Facility with the demons. I'll be back sometime tomorrow.

... Understood. Careful, especially since Yamichi hasn't disabled either of your Signs and made them untraceable.

Yuna would turn back to face Hajime, flashing him a tired but appreciative smile before looking back in front and walking alongside Hotsuma. As quickly as Hajime would see the two, a sense of deja vu would swarm through him as they both disappeared from sight, causing him to sigh softly.
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Yuna and Hotsuma wouldn't return until well after midnight. For Yuna, around 3 AM to be more precise. It took almost no time for her to find the living room couch, fall on top of it, and pass out.

Unfortunately, the search went as well as anyone could have assumed - shitty. Not even a clue or lead, and it felt like they did indeed turn the whole goddamn Satellite upside-down.

So, upon waking up, Yuna made a decision. She had to get out. Now it was less fueled out of spite compared to if she'd exited the base last night and more to prevent herself from falling too deep into depression.

She had been standing over Hajime for about ten minutes now, silently watching him sleep. Finally .... she decided enough was enough. It was past lunch, anyway. They'd both - probably all - overslept.

Hmmm? Hajime would groggily ask.

I'm gonna visit Fayth. But ummm ... I'm gonna need your help.

.... You're not really gonna use telepathy with anyone else she's around, are you?

Maybe only with Jack. But any guards or butlers? Nope. That's why I need you.

Yuna would gently take a hold of Hajme's hand and begin tracing messages on his hand. Starting with a simple example. Like this. It'll be the less freakier way to 'talk' to them.

Hajime nodded, understanding now why Yuna was seeking him out. You really care for this Fayth, huh?

Yuna merely smirked, lightly tugging at his sleeve before beginning to leave the base once again.
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Misty, meanwhile, would stretch slightly. She'd been here ... how long?

Several hours, if she could take a good enough guess.

Unfortunately, now more than ever, her presence was required. Rutger and the others were making all the final preparations, which meant someone had to watch their newest 'guest'. To sum up how Takeshi had been treated thus far, the 'cold shoulder' approach was a valid expression to use. Most questions Takeshi asked were either ignored completely or replied with very, very vague responses.

He would be offered meals; but at a cost. He wasn't let loose from his restraints even for those, which would mean either Kiryu or herself would have to feed him. Lest, of course, he refused. Then it was a matter of starving himself.

But no matter. That wouldn't be anything he'd need to worry about soon enough, hence why neither Misty or Kiryu would make him eat.

Finally, Misty would turn her head and look over at the chained male.

"Tell you what - I'll do an exchange. If you answer a question of mine, I'll return that gesture. How's that sound?"

Another factor that wouldn't matter too much. Once he was 'converted', he'd respond and obey even if he didn't wish to. Still, it'd be better if she could get a reply sooner instead of later.
 
Hotsuma seemed to be satisfied, even if the look on his face suggested otherwise. "Fine...I'll check the industrial district. Lot of hiding places." And as Hajime made his comment, Hotsuma said nothing.

Let Sector find me. They'll shit themselves if they do.

Of course, to avoid any more bitching, he kept this thought private. And without much else than a 'See you later' from him, he would get on his Runner and take off. The hours went by, and per the agreement, he would keep in contact with Yuna. So far, she'd found nothing...And he was having the same luck. Which was to say, none at all.

He stayed out for a few more hours than she did, but not much more...He'd actually gone back to where he might the guy. Takeshi was targeted, this much he knew for certain; he knew there were other people in those jails. And despite his skill, they were plenty of strong Duelists behind bars. Who those people were, he had no clue...And the Emperor wasn't doing much to help.

"I think you know something, dickbag. Quit holding out..."

"Even if I did, would I tell you? You seem to forget who you're talking to, whelp. All the same...I will say this, and don't you dare breathe a word of this to Yuna."

"Why the fuck would I? Once Takeshi's back, she can forget about me sticking around."

"Oh? Not planning to be there for your allies? You really think she'll let you go so easily."

"Ain't a matter of 'if'...More like 'when'. I meant when I said she was taking over. They deserve better...She deserves better."

Standing here in the B.A.D. was a trip...Especially in the Fringes, where Takeshi grew up. Here, power dictated everything. Cards, girls, money...Anything that could be gotten was in ample supply here. Even more so now that Hotsuma's releasing all the prisoners reinvigorated most of the local Gangs. And it was here that he recalled their last real match, taking off his helmet to view the darkening sky...The one that Hotsuma had lost, but not by much. Even now, the stars seemed like just then.

"I meant when I said it, Tak. You'll never have to fight alone again. Even if it's not us together."

He knew Takeshi was a survivor...He'd lived here, one of the hardest and most jaded places of the Satellite. He'd built his deck to survive the Gangs that tried to attack him, to make him become part of their team. Hotsuma remembered their encounter...And the challenge that Takeshi gave him upon hearing his offer.

"Get me past 1000 Life and I might consider it!"

Their Duel had raged on; it was one of the most challenging fights he'd ever had...And when Sector tried to arrest the both of them in a surprise raid?

"What now? You gonna run? I can hold off Sector, so go ahead! Leave me!" he remembered Takeshi yelling...But instead of doing that, Hotsuma just smiled widely.

"The hell you talking about?! Now it gets fun! You didn't tell me we had guests to this party!"

To this day, he still remembered Takeshi's look of surprise...Something the guy had commented on after the arresting officers tried and failed to bring them in. He was still relatively nameless then, the 'Fiend' epithet still selective to just Sector themselves.

"So...You actually stayed. Not bad; your deck's a bit slow though." Takeshi would joke, Hotsuma laughing, "That's alright; I prefer my fists to cards anyway. Especially when these dickheads get butthurt and try to use their shitty batons. But seriously...Interested? Someone strong like you, we can really get Sector's panties in a bunch."

Takeshi's smile in the flashback made Hotsuma grin himself, hearing him ask "But...If I do join, you gotta promise me: No turning back, even when shit gets bad." At this point, he said aloud what he remembered saying to him all those years ago:

"I don't run...And with us fighting and kicking ass, you'll never fight alone again. We'll take the Satellite back...And drive Sector out for good."

It was here that Hotsuma was brought back to reality, seeing the sky become the darkest it ever would. And now even more pissed, knowing that somewhere...Those fuckers were toying with Takeshi, likely in crazy ways. And he'd make sure they all suffered if they did anything to him.

"Hang tight bro...We're gonna get you home." he would say aloud, putting his helmet on. For now...He would rest. Strong as he'd gotten, he was still mostly human. And after returning back around 5am, he would go to his room and pass out. Not waking up as Yuna would take her leave until the late afternoon.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________​

There was very little Takeshi remembered from the jail; all he remembered was seeing this Aiyami woman transform and be joined by someone who dressed alike...And that was it. Then he woke up here. Bound in chains, not even allowed to move. Oh sure, he was belligerent at first...But they knew, much like he did, that there was very little he could even hope to do. As such, they let him struggle all he liked.

But in the end...It was pointless. All the same though,

Unlike Yuna, though...Not much came in the physical torture. A punch for insubordination by the guy named 'Demak', a couple of kicks just for the hell of it by Kiryu...And even a slap across the face by Misty after he made intentionally lewd noises while she fed him, something he had done to both Kiryu and herself. The former just laughed it off, calling him 'spunky' and even said 'A for effort'. It was just a day...But the sheer boredom of it all was getting to him.

Up until Misty addressed him. His eyes glared up at her with contempt; to think he'd been fooled like this again. Let his guard down because she played the nice and beautiful enchantress role too good. Too many girls in his youth had done the same; oh sure, there were several he was serious about. But...Something always ended up happening to them. Not all of it was bad, but the majority eventually led him to believe he was cursed. And now? That belief was returning stronger than it had ever been.

Instead of a snarky reply, she would find him answering rather honestly. Albeit with no less disgust in his voice, but honest nonetheless.

"Well...If you got something that'll put me on my ass like that, then you probably got something that'll make me tell you what you want to know anyway. But....I'd like to at least get an answer while I have my own mind, if it's all the same."

And with that, he would just sigh and say,

"Ask away...For whatever good it will do you."
 

Fayth, meanwhile, had been awake. Only for about twenty minutes, mind you. But that was long enough for her to wake herself up and get changed into a casual outfit. Not that she was expecting to do much, but she at least wanted to be presentable. It'd be embarrassing if Mister Evans or even Jack walked in on still clad in a nightgown. They were, she had been told, somewhat transparent, after all, and would thus leave not much - if anything - to the imagination.

Her feet lightly swung over the edge of the bed. It should be a no brainer that getting a meal should be on her immediate to-do list, but for some reason, she wanted to be damn sure Jack was awake. And with how tiring he whole Fortune Cup had been?

She wouldn't overly blame him if he was still unconscious. Either way, she was too used to being near him. It'd be awkward for Fayth to do much without Jack around, save for the few exceptions such as tasks like bathing.

Fayth would barely stand up before hearing a knock near the front door. Her heart froze. Goddamnit, that wasn't Goodwin, was it? She wouldn't put it past him to find some excuse to stop by.

But when Fayth didn't immediately hear a voice or two, that made her head tilt ... and caused her to descend down the stairs.

Poor Yuna was getting rather rapidly exasperated. Then again, the results - or lack of, depending on one's point of view - of looking for Takeshi didn't really help her mood much. For what felt like the sixth time, she began quickly tracing the same message she'd been trying to relay to Mister Evans.

I. Am. A. Friend. Of. Fayth's. Is. She.. Around?!

Was she going too fast?

.... Or ... did he recognize her from the picture Goodwin revealed at the Fortune Cup? That thought definitely made her pulse quicken. But no one couldn't say Yuna wasn't doing her damnedest keeping a straight expression to avoid giving herself away.

There was indeed a reason the butler was hesitant to say the truth. He may not have known that she was in grave danger, but the fact Fayth resided here at all was known by very few people. And even with the post-tournament celebrations being televised, it didn't seem as if it would immediately appear like that was the case.

"She is, yes; however, last I saw --- "

"It's okay, Mister Evans. I'm pretty confident that's her. She likely has a companion with her, yes?"

"Indeed, she does. So ... you're fine with her visiting you? That's what she's been saying -- err -- relaying she's here for."

"Yes. More than fine."

That definitely made Yuna grin to hear those words. The butler, meanwhile, still seemed uncertain. After pausing and contemplating on it for a few moments, he wanted to get one last thing checked out. "So .... Miss Milner? What happened to your friend? Why is she mute?"

"Excessive force from Sector."

It wasn't the truth, no. But it was a reasonable fib she could offer. The real answer? He'd never believe that - understandably so.

"And ... her friend was another victim?"

"Yes, Mister Evans."

"Very well. As long as it's not her purposely hiding or anything of the like. My apologies. You both may enter."

Not needing much more encouragement, the two would hastily remove their shoes, with Yuna all but running towards Fayth and hugging her. Hajime would wave to her, smiling softly.

"Here. Follow me."

No doubt it would be an odd sight for a blind person to lead two people who still had their sight. But Fayth had gotten used enough to Jack's residence and, with no trouble, guided them into her room.

Finally! Yuna happily exclaimed in Fayth's head. Ugh. I hated playing dumb like that, but I doubt he'd appreciate the voice in his head.

"I understand ... " A concerned tone quickly replaced her happier one as Fayth added, "You ... weren't seen coming here? Were you?"

Pfft, nah. And as far as I'm concerned? I passed the last obstacle -- I think. But I wasn't intending on staying too long, just as a precaution. So ... Yuna smirked, clapping her hands together. You look like you're doing very well. Also, congrats on getting as far as you did in the tournament. Very impressive. So ... you never got to properly meet him, but this is my right-hand man, Hajime. He's ... helping me bypass whatever curse I seem to have on me.

"Right-hand man?" Fayth repeated, stretching her hand out and feeling Hajime accept it. "So ... does that mean you really do have a gang?"

Of sorts. It's ... not the typical kind you've likely heard or maybe run into. But ... since people could argue it still is one, yes. Yomi is technically a gang. I view us more as a safe haven to get the fuck away from Sector and get a reprieve, though.

"I see. I'm glad. Makes me feel relieved I told Jack you and Hotsuma weren't the source of the problems in the Satellite."

That resulted in Yuna blinking a few times .... before mentally laughing in Fayth's head.

You fucking serious?! He thinks it's my - our, technically - fault?! Oh good lord! Ahhh, wow. I needed that laugh. Thanks, Fayth.. Is our infamy that exaggerated here or something? Haha .... wheeeeew. No, though. Satellite's been shit even before I found Yomi. Waaaaaay before.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________​
"There we go. Smart answer. So .... "

Only for about five seconds did Misty stay quiet - and that was mainly to gather her thoughts. Make sure they were organized, and that there would be absolutely no misunderstanding.

"Has Yuna told you of us? Even if not who exactly we are, has she mentioned our existence? Since the Director revealed you're one of hers, common sense implies you would know this answer. She didn't crack against any of the torture or interrogation, despite Rutger and Kiryu's best efforts. Quite the sight to behold. And yet, even with the state she was left in, I don't feel confident. Mind you, she's going to be dealt with regardless. This'll just help me - and a few others, more likely than not - determine how exactly to go about making certain decisions."

Even with her purposely being vague, Takeshi could probably piece together well enough where Misty was really going with her inquiry.
 
Unlike Fayth, Jack had slept in a little later than usual; knowing that he didn't have to get up early to go meet with a new or existing sponsor? Or get ready for a book signing event? Having the time to just sleep in would be incredible; though even he knew this couldn't last forever. His savings weren't all that high, and even with the effort Goodwin had taken to keep his investments stable by hiring a financial manager, he was struggling to stay in the black.

All the same...The day after one of the most stressful tournaments he'd ever overseen was a reason to sleep in a little. So much so, however, that he didn't even notice that his home had visitors. And wouldn't until he awoke and showered, dressing up in his usual attire but with a black undershirt and grey khakis instead sans the duster. Didn't need it right now...However, as he would go downstairs to see about getting some food, he would then hear Fayth through her door.

Weird...Was she talking with someone?

However...What really caught him was that he was hearing voices in his head, perfectly tuned as responses to the very questions Fayth was asking. Still, who could it be that she was so familiar with?

Opening the door, he would see not one but two people in her quarters. One face of which was very familiar...And if he wasn't mistaken, it was the same woman who had helped her survive in the Facility. But...What was she doing here.

Crossing his arms in front of his chest, he then said in a somewhat cold tone, "Well, Fayth...You seem to have made yourself comfortable." It wasn't that he was displeased or upset...Just wishing that someone would have at least had woken him up to make sure any guests weren't dangerous. Plus, he figured she would have seen it as a faux paus to let people into a home that wasn't even hers, even if she did know them. She was a guest, after all.

Regardless, Jack then added, "So...I recognize one of you. But you...." His gaze then turned to Hajime, violet hues focused intently...Belying experience that his visage in the news and all the shows about him seemed to never pick up on. "I don't know you. Now....Care to tell me your name?"
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________​

Takeshi bit his lip, eyes staring at the ground as he contemplated his options; even if he refused, they would likely wrench the answers out of him in some sick and twisted manner. And while that would be preferable in terms of loyalty...It could prove detrimental to him if he were to somehow be freed from this. At the very least, it was a one for one...And if she kept her word, then he could perhaps even find a way to take them down from the inside.

All the same...He wasn't told all that much. Mostly just about what was done to her.

"She said some people tortured her...That you asked her about not just us, but some group called 'the Signers'. And that there were three of you...That was it. Oh, and she seemed rather proud of not breaking under your friend's efforts. And I'll say I'm happy for her too." he would then reply honestly. All the same...He was being straightforward. He hadn't heard who they really were, or what it was they wanted with their names. But even that was obvious; if they were a threat to their plan - whatever the scale - they would obviously seek to get rid of them.

"Now....Your turn. Why me? Why any of this? Of all the Duelists, all the people you could have taken for...whatever reason...you chose me. And...If I can be so blunt, I'd appreciate you being honest and not just saying it was because you knew I was with Yuna."

He knew there was more...But for all he was thinking, he couldn't think of why they would just take him. If they really wanted to take out Yuna, he had a deep gut feeling they would just go after her now.
 

Hajime's eyes narrowed as he felt Jack outside the door.

Don't be rude like that, he would then hear from Hajime. Just come in. Besides, you wouldn't have been able to hear the whole talk prior to this link being made with you.

And when the de-throned King entered, he'd see an irked looking Hajime with his arms over his chest, a calm enough looking Yuna, and a rather embarrassed Fayth.

"Sorry, Jack. I didn't mean to .... "

Sorry? For what? Being able to talk and have somewhat of a social life? Look, maybe if you accidentally assisted in a freak break-in, maybe. But just this? Yuna shook her head. No need for that .... not in my mind and eyes, anyway. So ...

Although her mood wasn't too different from Hajime's, Yuna was at least trying to keep herself from caving into the more pissed off half that was still very much lingering.

Technicalities aside, don't scold Fayth. I'll woman up and admit I fucked up in that regard. I should have given a notice or something. My bad.

Hajime paused, looking very visibly hesitant ... before giving the best - and most civil - response to Jack.

Is this going to go to Goodwin if I reveal that type of information? Takeshi was already 'dealt with'. And now, because of his hastiness, Takeshi's --

Yuna sighed, shooting a less-than-pleasant look at her right hand man. Oi, oi. We agreed this wasn't what I was here for. But ..... finish what you start. No sense keeping it hidden now.

He's been found and captured by Kiryu and his new friends, whoever they may be. I already got found by Divine and his freak group Arcadia, no thanks to Aki. Made me mute with her damn powers. I don't really feel like 'disappearing' and ending up with another group of sadists, if you don't mind.

" .... You're sure it was Kiryu and the others .... ??"

Yep, Yuna confirmed, And the fact me and my partner couldn't find even a goddamn trace of where they're hiding Takeshi is doing little to help our morale at the moment. So excuse the tense tone from my right-hand man, Jack, but it is - sadly - justified. And ... well, I don't blame him. If he doesn't wanna answer, I'm not gonna make him.
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Misty merely sighed when he mentioned Yuna was very proud about withstanding Kiryu's torture ... and then lowly chuckled.

"I won't deny, even I was impressed. She's got far more fight than one would assume from a simple glance. But .... it also made me all the more frustrated with Kiryu. He just dragged me to where he was hiding her and tried to show her off like some abused pet. Ugh. Would have been far more productive if he'd succeeded in making her talk. But now? Both him and Rutger-sama have made a grave error by simply muting her. You helped me confirm that much."

Her head slowly shook.

"I can't say I'm too amazed, though. If she handled two weeks of Kiryu's crap, then she could have found some way to bypass the curse placed on her. Which, if I'm understanding you correctly, is exactly what she did."

Misty sighed again, this time rubbing her forehead slightly.. Although the breath could have been assumed it was directed at Takeshi, it wasn't, actually. In fact, she was rather pleased he was being far more cooperative than Yuna had.

" .... I thought it would have been a bit obvious. But, very well. I can enlighten you. Who better to kill Yuna than one of her own? Also, since you know of them, the Signers aren't going to remain alive - not if we ensure we get our way. So using them and converting them into one of us, even if briefly, would be rather redundant. But most of all? Your deck proves it easily has the potential to cut anyone down. Very likely even Yuna - not sure. She didn't have her deck on her when Kiryu abducted her, so that's one advantage she has over us. Still ... your Shiranui will be very useful, especially when you're aligned with us."

Her head tilted as Misty briefly paused before including, "If there's any other reasons, then Rutger-sama will know of them. This may have been Kiryu's idea, but Rutger gave him the go-ahead ... which means he, too, saw potential in this idea, and thus knows more than myself."
 
"Awfully brave to talk like that to a homeowner...Especially since you were technically here uninvited" Jack replied right back to Hajime, reminding him they were by the letter of the law trespassing; if he was with Yuna, then it should be no surprise that he would do as such. He could have Sector down here in a matter of seconds, if he wanted. But really, he could tell they were just friends, so he wouldn't press the issue.

However, when Yuna and this mystery man would then go on to mention Kiryu and his 'friends' having abducted Takeshi, his expression turned to one of noticeable shock. Definitely softening from the initial (if mild by comparison of how he used to be) manner. "Well...That's unsettling that Kiryu's found a new group that would accept him. My condolences for your loss...But, how could that have been possible he found Takeshi? Even if he was watching from afar, there was no way he could have known which jail he was taken to." Moreover, how did he get inside the Satellite? The guy wasn't exactly known for subtlety, after all.

Regardless, he just said, "Perhaps we should sit to a meal before talking further. I was about to have the staff make breakfast. Fayth...Yuna...Whoever you are...You're free to join us if you so wish to. And relax; as far as Goodwin knows, you were never here. I'll do anything I can to help you, if it puts you at ease." That last bit was said more to Hajime to help console that he wouldn't sell them out to Sector just for visiting a friend. The old him might very well have though, especially since he viewed this place as his 'castle'.

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Takeshi's eyes narrowed as she explained his purpose-to-be; he knew he had a powerful deck...But to make him kill her?

At this rate, it was taking everything he had to respond without laughing. "While I appreciate that someone sees how powerful my Deck can be...Unless you can find a way to make Solid Vision deal real, physical damage, they're still just cards."

"Oh, but that's where you're so very wrong, my friend!"

A third voice interrupted as another robed figure entered, this one having blue accents on his robes, ear-length silver hair barely hiding the maniacal glint in his golden irises. "Well now...Seems you don't know all that much, do you?" the male said with a sadistic grin. Takeshi raised a brow, adding "No, I don't. But what do you mean I'm wrong? If you're talking about what happened between me and that one girl, that was a fluke."

Kiryu just laughed, "Nah, not that...See, one cool benefit about these powers is that you can kick ass both in and out of Duels. Mind you, I don't know if you'll get everything we have, buuuuuut....Let's not focus on that. For right now, man...You're a beast, someone with so much power they can't help but bring it all during a fight. Your duel with Ling proved that...And you got robbed for it. Trust me, brother, I can relate."

Takeshi snickered, "Oh? And how's that?" Kiryu just smiled, "I got robbed too. Betrayed rather. Someone didn't like that I was going off like a mine field and decided to try and have me arrested to keep me off the streets. You and I are more alike than you think. I can see it in you, especially now that I'm up close." And it was here the silver-haired male knelt down and looked Takeshi in the eyes, stating rather calmly, "Your boss....And I don't mean that bitch Yuna. I mean her friend, the Fiend, Sosuke. He encourages you to go full throttle doesn't he? Everyone else though...They probably tell you to lay off. Be sporting...Don't press too hard, all that shit weaklings say when they know they don't have a fighting chance."

Takeshi's gaze seemed to soften a little, Kiryu just smiling slyly, "Come on...You're not fooling anyone. He's the only one who tells you to fight with everything, doesn't he? You should listen to him! And besides, think of it this way! You join us, you can fight without ever having to worry again!"

Takeshi seemed to be quite in thought after this, Kiryu just grinning before the brunette would reply, "You're right...That does sound very tempting. But one thing you should about the Fiend: He's lost a lot lately. Everyone from my group has, but his have been really close to home. And now that you took me? He'll find out...And when he does, if I don't crush you first...He'll make short work of you. You think I'm strong?" At this Takeshi couldn't help but laugh, "And even if you can make me fight, can you be so sure him or Yuna won't find out? They'll find a way to make this plan of yours fall dead on its face. And then they'll do the very same to you. You might be lucky with Yuna...At least she'll finish you quick. Sosuke though...Let's just say he's got an art for making people who cross him suffer."
 

What the hell do you mean uninvited?! Your butler let us in! We didn't force -- !!

Yuna shook her head, squeezing slightly on Hajime's shoulder. Enough to hint he needed to stop while he was ahead.

It's fine. Really. Take a few deep breaths.

While Hajime began working on that, Yuna elaborated. No sense keeping them in the dark now that Hajime had hinted what happened. Well .... you're right. It wasn't technically Kiryu, per se. I recognized one face, though.

Yuna couldn't help but raise an eyebrow. Was the table really an appropriate place to talk about something like that? Even if not, it would at least be one location where they could all sit and, hopefully, relax. Even if only a bit.

.... I'm holding you to that promise, then. It's Hajime. No surname ... just Hajime.

"Sorry again," Fayth would whisper, causing her to have her hair ruffled.

It's fine. Really. Although this really wasn't what I came for, maybe it's for the best. No sense keeping you both in the dark, especially when it's linked to a crazy bastard looking for you Signers.

Between waking up late and all but rushing over here, there were no arguments on the offer of food. Jack was very quickly followed by the other three members, who each took a seat at the table.

So before I start saying anything ... I'm assuming Fayth has given you some details about my two weeks with Kiryu and his group of sorts? If not ... I'll need to back up and start from there, otherwise nothing I'm about to say will make any sense.

Sure enough, Jack would notice that compared to a few moments ago, Hajime was definitely more relaxed. Not to a point where his guard was fully let down - but he also wasn't ready to lash out at even the simplest of words or gestures.
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As Kiryu entered, Misty would stay mostly silent. However, when Takeshi tried to give some 'fair warnings' about the Fiend and his temper ..... her eyebrows rose before she glanced over to Kiryu.

" ... Didn't Yuna say she killed him? And yet .... he's talking as if that's not the case."

... That'd just be their luck, huh? The one lie she may have gotten away with was hiding the existence of arguably one of the strongest duelists in the Satellite. And thus, by default, a legitimate threat.

"So, which is it? You still being honest with us, Takeshi? Or is that a bluff and Yuna was being earnest?"

It could go either way, as far as she was concerned. Yuna definitely proved she had the endurance and will power to go through with taking a life. Certainly the bloodlust. But then ... that posed another question, one that was just as important as the last one.

"Any ideas why she'd lie about something like that? Especially if he's right and Sosuke's truly your boss rather than Yuna?"
 
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