#jean gray nightmare fuel

[newstfionline]

Friday, May 19, 2023

Biden cancels Pacific trip (Washington Post) President Biden was set to make history next week: With his trip to Papua New Guinea, he would become the first sitting American president to visit a Pacific island nation. Even though he was scheduled to spend only three hours on the ground, he was due to attend a meeting of the 18-member Pacific Islands Forum, and sign security pacts with the host and with Micronesia. The visit was to be a clear signal that after decades of neglect, the United States was focused once more on a region where China has spent a significant amount of time and money. Instead, Biden’s decision to return home after the Group of Seven meetings in Japan—canceling the Papua New Guinea and Australian legs of his trip—to deal with the U.S. debt crisis sent a starkly different signal: That American dysfunction at home continues to disrupt its agenda abroad. Rather than make history, the trip reinforced it. “This cancellation will be seen as the U.S. falling into familiar patterns, and not living up to the expectations it sets,” said Mihai Sora, a former Australian diplomat in the Pacific who is now a research fellow at the Lowy Institute, a Sydney think tank. “And it will make fruitful material for detractors seeking to undermine U.S. influence in the region.”

No to relocating (WSJ) Not many people seem willing to move for a new job. Outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas found that 1.6% of job seekers relocated for new positions in the first quarter, the lowest level on record for a survey that reaches back to 1986. “In the 1980’s and 90’s, nearly a third of job seekers would move for new positions. That has fallen steadily since, as housing costs have risen and companies have moved to where talent pools are located. Now, remote and hybrid positions are keeping workers at home,” said Andrew Challenger, the company’s senior vice president.

Haitians fight back against gangs (Washington Post) Jean Baptiste had watched Haiti descend into chaos as violent armed gangs marauded across the capital unchecked, forcing 130,000 people from their homes with a brutal campaign of kidnapping, rape and murder. But when bandits shot and dismembered a relative last month, he said, he decided he’d had enough. Enough waiting for the Haitian government—a weak and unloved clique of unelected officials—to restore order. Enough counting on its enfeebled police force to beat the gangs back. Enough suffering while the world mostly looked away. As Jean Baptiste and more than a dozen others in his neighborhood saw it, he said, the time had come to take matters into their own hands. Armed with machetes, they work in shifts, patrolling Turgeau and defending the Port-au-Prince neighborhood from gang members. He estimates neighborhood vigilantes have killed 27 in the past two weeks. The Washington Post could not verify Jean Baptiste’s claims. But Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry, Haitian police and U.S. and U.N. officials have acknowledged the phenomenon: In the absence of security, Haitians are arming themselves with rocks and machetes and banding together to fight the gangs who have turned their lives into what the U.N. human rights chief in February called a “living nightmare.”

The Offensive Before the Offensive: Ukraine Strikes Behind Russian Lines (WSJ) Early this month, four drones attacked a Russian oil refinery almost 300 miles from Ukraine. The next day, another drone hit it. Not long after another drone bombed a fuel depot on the other side of Russia, near Belarus. Call it the offensive before the offensive. Strike by pinpoint strike, Ukraine is taking aim at ammunition stores and caches of other supplies that Moscow’s forces need to fight, seeking to weaken them ahead of a broader ground campaign to push back the Russian invaders. For Ukraine, which is battling a larger military, the attacks are important to chip away at Russia’s battlefield resources. Any engagement longer than a few days becomes a logistical contest, say commanders, so destroying stores of ammunition, fuel and spare parts can be more significant than taking out individual tanks or artillery pieces, because the impact can be broader. A tank without fuel or shells is of little use. “This is the preparatory stage,” said Oleksandr Kovalenko, an analyst at the Ukrainian Center for Security Studies. “It is about destabilizing and weakening the capabilities of the enemy before the offensive.”

Pakistani police surround Imran Khan’s home, claim former leader is hiding suspects in recent riots (AP) Police surrounded the home of former Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday, claiming he was sheltering dozens of people allegedly involved in violent protests over his recent detention. The police deployment was likely to anger Khan’s many followers and raised concerns about more clashes between them and the security forces. Last week, Khan supporters had attacked public property and military installations after he was dragged out of a courtroom and detained. The popular opposition leader was released over the weekend and returned to his home in an upscale district of Lahore, Pakistan’s second largest city and the capital of the Punjab region. Pakistani authorities have said they would prosecute civilians involved in recent anti-government protests in military courts. The army chief, Gen. Asim Munir, said in a speech to troops Wednesday that “recently planned and orchestrated tragic incidents will never be allowed again at any cost.” The advocacy group Amnesty International and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan said they were alarmed by the government’s plan.

UN expert: Myanmar military imported $1 billion in weapons since 2021 coup (AP) Myanmar’s military has imported at least $1 billion worth of weapons and related material from Russia, China and other countries since its February 2021 coup, some of which it has used to carry out atrocities against civilians, according to a U.N. report released Wednesday. The weapons continue to flow to the military despite overwhelming evidence of its responsibility for the atrocities, including some that amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, said Tom Andrews, the U.N. independent investigator on human rights in Myanmar. As an example of what he called the junta’s brutality, Andrews pointed to its April 11 airstrike using a Russian Yak-130 fighter jet on a ceremony attended by some 300 opponents of army rule, which was quickly followed by an attack by Russian Mi-35 helicopters on those who came to help. He said at least 160 people were killed, including many children.

China loans pushing world’s poorest countries to brink of collapse (AP) A dozen poor countries are facing economic instability and even collapse under the weight of hundreds of billions of dollars in foreign loans, much of them from the world’s biggest and most unforgiving government lender, China. An Associated Press analysis of a dozen countries most indebted to China—including Pakistan, Kenya, Zambia, Laos and Mongolia—found paying back that debt is consuming an ever-greater amount of the tax revenue needed to keep schools open, provide electricity and pay for food and fuel. And it’s draining foreign currency reserves these countries use to pay interest on those loans, leaving some with just months before that money is gone. Behind the scenes is China’s reluctance to forgive debt and its extreme secrecy about how much money it has loaned and on what terms, which has kept other major lenders from stepping in to help. On top of that is the recent discovery that borrowers have been forced to put cash in hidden escrow accounts that push China to the front of the line of creditors to be paid. Countries in AP’s analysis had as much as 50% of their foreign loans from China and most were devoting more than a third of government revenue to paying off foreign debt. Two of them, Zambia and Sri Lanka, have already gone into default.

800 miles away (NYT) “Jakarta has a lot of problems,” says Hannah Beech, The Times’s senior correspondent for Asia, “but its most existential one is that it is sinking in some places by up to a foot a year.” Climate change is part of the reason: The Java Sea—which surrounds Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital—is rising. But an even bigger factor is that Jakartans, desperate for access to clean water, have dug thousands of illegal wells that effectively deflate the marshes underneath the city. Today, 40 percent of Jakarta lies below sea level, and flooding is increasingly common. The encroaching sea presents a threat to one of the world’s most densely packed cities, where 10 million people live in an area about half the size of New York City, and another 20 million reside in the surrounding region. To deal with that threat, Indonesia’s popular president—Joko Widodo, in his ninth year in office—has devised an audacious solution: He is moving the country’s capital. The new capital, now under construction, is called Nusantara. It is being built from the ground up, about 800 miles from the current capital, in Borneo. Nusantara won’t be just any planned city, the president asserts, but a green metropolis run on renewable energy, where there are no choking traffic jams and people can stroll and bike along verdant paths. There are, of course, a lot of doubts about whether Indonesia can really pull this off.

Johannesburg, Where Mayors Last Just Months, or Even Only Weeks (NYT) NOW HIRING: A mayor of Johannesburg. DUTIES: Managing fickle governing partners. Dodging insults from opposition parties. And cleaning up piles of garbage. LENGTH OF TERM: Likely very short. This month, after days of brinkmanship and arm twisting, the city inaugurated its sixth different mayor in 22 months: Kabelo Gwamanda, a first-term city councilor from a political party that got just 1 percent of the vote in the last municipal election. His ascent came after he won the majority of the votes of the city’s 270 elected council members. And it capped the latest chapter in a political soap opera where mayoral terms are measured in weeks and months, and where the inability of council members to stick with a leader has resulted in a municipal mess, with Johannesburg residents the biggest losers. While political leaders bicker over power and cliques, exasperated residents often struggle through days without electricity and water, dodge cratered roads and fret about dilapidated buildings.

With 62 Newly Discovered Moons, Saturn Knocks Jupiter Off Its Pedestal (NYT) The International Astronomical Union is set to recognize more than 60 new moons gravitating around Saturn. That’s a grand total of 145 moons for the ringed celestial object, surpassing Jupiter’s 95 moons.

She finished last, but this runner won fans for not giving up in a pounding rain (NPR) She could have just quit. The race was long decided, and rain was falling in torrents. But Bou Samnang was running for her country—Cambodia—so she kept going, racing alone on a track in Phnom Penh. And for that, she is being hailed as an inspiration. “I tried to reach the finish line because I wanted to show people that in life, even though we go a bit slow or fast, we will reach our destination all the same,” she said afterward, according to Agence France-Presse. “So we should not give up. We should try our best.” News of Bou Samnang’s persistence spread rapidly: Sports and news outlets around the world shared video of her finishing the women’s 5,000-meter race (3.1 miles) on May 8 at the Southeast Asian Games, which Cambodia is hosting for the first time. She raced that day despite struggling with the effects of anemia, Bou Samnang told the AFP, adding that she was committed to run for her country. The runner’s persistence was also noted by Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni, who said he was proud of her for reminding everyone that sports are about more than winning and losing.

[sunflowerandco]

After the Fact: Act V - The Duncan Special

Rating: T

I wanted to dedicate this chapter to @straighttxhell for just being so nice and supportive of this story! And I really hope you all like this one for the fact that’s it’s all very soft so prepare.

previous acts here

         Duncan, DJ, and Geoff were all settled on the couch in need of a game plan.

         "As much Courtney gives off that energy, I can't imagine her wanting this grand gesture, and I don't either. I'd rather it happen in the moment, like in a moment you wouldn't expect." DJ came up with an easy solution to Duncan's dilemma.

         "So basically, do the complete opposite of what Geoff did." Geoff responded in offense to DJ's suggestion. "Then why am I here?!"

         Duncan removed the hands behind his head and shrugged his shoulders. "Moral support?"

         "I think there'd have to be morality involved then..." DJ trailed off. They heard the door unlock and immediately straightened up despite only having to stop talking. Courtney walked into the living room and their joint silence automatically raised her suspicion.

         "Why are you being so quiet? What did you do? Did you eat my key lime squares?"

         Duncan didn't know what the hell a key lime square was, but his answer gave him a free ticket out of her line of questioning. "...Yes?"

         Courtney gasped like she just witnessed him kick a puppy. "Carlos makes them specifically for me! Now I have to go back to the bakery!"

         "I'm sorry, baby." Duncan grabbed one of her reusable grocery bags, handed it to her, and kissed her on the cheek in baseless consolidation. "Tell Carlos he's gonna be busy making you more." He went as far to turn her toward the door by her shoulders. She yelled out before closing the door.

         "You're picking up the order though!" As soon as the door closed Duncan turned back to his friends.

         "I don't even know what the hell a key lime square is." DJ felt sympathy for Courtney's unneeded frustration.

         "You didn't have to lie to ol' girl."

         "If I didn't, she would still be on my ass. Trust me, you don't wanna see Courtroom Courtney." It was the nickname he came up with after she got accepted into law school. It made her even better at arguing her point across, which Duncan didn't even know was possible for her to do.

         Geoff got up from the couch, eager to get his point across to his friends. "All I'm saying is it would be a shame if it wasn't a memorable moment. That's why I went all out for Bridge."

         Duncan pondered on what he said. He could understand why Geoff felt the way he did, considered the aspect of the event being memorable for Courtney, and not just a passing moment between them. He thought maybe grand gestures weren't such a bad idea. "Alright, then. What do you think I should do? When it comes to big, I have a few ideas.

        The three of them exchanged ideas until they could think of the most extra idea for the amount of time they had left to plan.

                                                        ***

        Duncan stood in the kitchen, leaning his back on the counter as he awaited an answer on the other end of the phone.

         "Hi, yeah, I'm calling to book a balloon ride for two on Saturday evening?"

        …

        "Uh, yeah it's Duncan Miller and Courtney Álvarez. I haven't been on one, but I think she has."

       …

        "Five-thirty's great. Okay, we'll be there. Thank you."

        Duncan mentally crossed a line on his list. If doing this meant they'd have a memorable, story-worthy day, it would all be worth it in the end. He turned to walk back to the living room but jumped at the sight of Courtney looking in the refrigerator. "Oh my God! How long have been standing there?"

        Courtney looked at him before refocusing on the contents of their refrigerator. She seemed to be low-energy and confused by him being startled. "Oh, hey, Babe. I just got here?" He appeared to calm down after she told him. She couldn't find anything that she wanted, so she closed the door defeated, and sighed against the door.

        "What's wrong? Didn't you have another class today?"

        "Yeah, but my professor went into labor, so it got cancelled. I'm happy for her and all, but now I'm glum." This was one thing he knew upset her, but one thing he couldn't understand. Her personal enjoyment for classroom settings, participation points, and homework made her feel most productive. So, missing out on it made her star dim.

        "Needa hug?" Duncan held his arms out to invite her in and hoped his heart rate didn't give away nearly getting caught by her. She responded by entering and wrapping her arms around his torso. She looked up at him. Her voice was so low and the number of times he'd seen her like this were very seldom.

        "Thank you. I'm gonna go shower now." He let her go do whatever she could to raise her spirits, but he couldn't help but find her crestfallen demeanor cute.

        He heard the bathroom door shut and he let out the breath he didn't know he was holding in. He couldn't remember the last time he felt this nervous around her. Duncan habitually relied on his confidence as a stand in and he couldn't decipher whether it weakened from the act of posing the question, or the method he chose to take under the influence of his best friends' views.

         Duncan's cell phone went off. It was a number he couldn't place but answered anyway. before he could say anything, he heard another man's voice speaking in a sultry tone.

         "Hey, Courtney. It's Carlos. You gave me this number for the order, right?"

         "This isn't Courtney. It's Duncan, her boyfriend. She wanted me to pick up her order. But, if you plan on talking to my girlfriend like that again, I can give you something I'm good at, too."

         "Oh, alright. it's ready for pickup. Bye"

         The call dropped immediately after he spoke.

                                                       ***

         Duncan sat on their couch with a picnic basket in his hands. It would be their first time in a month where they were able to devote a day to themselves without their busy lives getting in the way. Duncan was feeling the pressure now in hopes of the success of this day; he just hoped he'd done right by her with his plans. His head filled with preoccupations and all the possible ways it can go while Courtney readied herself for their outing. Duncan looked in the direction her voice was coming from, abruptly bringing him out of his contemplative state.

        "What do you think?" Her white dress highlighted her warm skin. The puffed sleeves-cottage core look was not her usual style, but she pulled it off effortlessly. He stood up from the couch, ready to hype his girl up.

         "I just thought I'd try something new since I haven't dressed up in a while. I think I look pretty good."

         "My god you look gorgeous, Princess."

         "Oh, stop. You really think so?" Courtney feigned bashfulness before she broke out into a few poses, looking over her shoulder and putting her hands on her hips. Duncan playfully scooped her up and kissed her on her cheek.

        "Ready to head out?"

        The car ride to the dock park filled with conversation of Courtney's excitement and Duncan's guise of normalness. When they arrived, the sky took on a gray hue, one Duncan did not expect from the forecast he checked today. They found the spot of their choice and unfolded their blanket. Their time was spent indulging in their favorite foods packed, relaxing, and reading.

        Courtney laid her head on Duncan's lap, holding a book in her face while he fed her grapes, helping her live up to his name for her. She closed it when she looked up and noticed Duncan was being quieter than usual. "What are you thinking about?" Courtney sat up to face him.

        Duncan tried to shift the focus of the conversation to her to deflect. Still, Courtney persisted. "How beautiful you are right now."

        "Nice one, but seriously. What's going on?"

        "Nothing. Why are you being such a lawyer?"

        "Because it gives me answers; you've been acting weird, key-lime-square-eater."

        Duncan threw a grape at her hoping to distract her. Courtney tried not to laugh when her mouth dropped open. To counter, she reached for the can of whipped cream to dispense some on top of his head. She couldn't suppress her laughter after some of it fell on the tip of his nose, using her finger to catch enough to eat. Duncan challenged her even further. This was just their one of many food wars, just at a new, unexpected location. "You really wanna do this. Right here?" He grabbed the can, making Courtney retreat behind a nearby tree. He felt a few droplets from the sky fall on his head, but it was nothing serious enough to wreck their plans. He caught up to her, grabbing her from behind and carrying her back to their blanket while he threatened to dispense confectionary mousse on her hair. Courtney pleaded for mercy in between laughs.

        "Duncan, please don't!"

        "Don't dish what you can't take, Princess!"

         Then, there were more droplets to which they didn't mind. The rain got a little heavier, but it didn't interrupt their preoccupation.

         A bolt of lightning near a tree and shower-like pour down confirmed their decision to make a run for it in the boathouse near the docks.

         They thanked the Gods for the door being unlocked as they entered the boathouse; the rain still beating loudly on the tin roof. This cabin proved to be nightmare fuel and they were surrounded by live bait, large, sharp fishhooks, and surprisingly no boat resting on the inside dock. Thunder rumbled loudly over the roof of the cabin just as they secured the door shut. Duncan's instincts compelled him to slip his leather jacket over Courtney's shoulders to stop her from shivering but took the ring box out of his pocket before doing so and stuffed it in his jeans pocket. He tried his best not to show his annoyance to their plans, but then it dawned on him that maybe this happened for a reason. He could read the signs the universe usually gave him, and this time he determined that the storm was a sign that he was right all along. He subtly joked about the fortunate event, trying to throw a curve to keep her surprised.

         "Worst date ever, huh?"

         Her hair was still dripping wet, and her natural waves made her hair shrink slightly. She was cold, wet. Her response surprised him. It was as if she tore a page from his book and didn't base her happiness on perfection. "I mean... it depends on how you look at it. I'm with you. We haven't had a day like this in a while." She wrapped her fingers around his arms to pull him in and attach her lips to his. Her acceptance of their situation confirmed his perception of their moment, and he felt more ready than he'd ever been to ask her. Their kiss was shortened when Duncan pulled away slowly, and his hands went from her hips to hold onto her forearms. He kept his eyes on hers as he brought one knee to the floor, still holding onto her when he started.

         "It isn't gonna get more memorable than this."

        Courtney caught on immediately and had no control over the tears flowing to her eyes. Her voice broke when she tried to speak. "Duncan..."

         "Courtney, when I told you that you save my life every time, I meant it. I don't know where the hell I'd be if you weren't in my life." He continued, and the more he spoke, the more relief he felt.

         "You are the only person who makes change worth it because you deserve the best of me if it means dealing with the worst sometimes. I want to keep giving the best of me to you. I love you so much, it's been this way for so long, and I don't think I'll stop."

        He reached into his pocket and pulled out that small box, and held it open in front of her while she tried to wipe away the tears on her face. "Will you marr-"

        "Yes" Duncan let out a breathy laugh, both relieved and humored by her fervent nature.

        She giggled as she choked back tears while Duncan slid the ring on her finger. He stood up to hold her in his arms tightly, not wanting to let go as she left lipstick marks all over his face and neck.

         Courtney forgot they were in a fish cabin. Duncan often had that effect on her.

                                                       ***

        When the rain let up, they decided the best way to spend the rest of their day was in the comfort of their own home, on the couch, wrapped up in blankets. Courtney finally got her hands on her favorite dessert, and they were watching whatever interested them on TV.

         "Carlos always nails it perfectly with these!" He glanced at her and remembered his interaction with that baker.

         "By the way that guy has it bad for you. I don't blame him though. Now, he knows better than to bother you, though." Courtney objected in disbelief, still chewing her dessert.

         "He does not!"

         "Of course you're blind to any guy having the hots for you. If it weren't that way, we would've been together since ninth grade."

         "That sheer confidence. What gave you the idea I wanted to date you in the ninth grade?"

         "The ring on your finger tells me otherwise."

         She held her hand out proudly and admired the oval-shaped gem on her finger.

  ��      "How did you afford this? You didn't rob a jewelry store, did you?" Duncan gave her a blank stare before she started giggling. He brought her hand down and intertwined his fingers with hers, looking at the TV again.

         "No. I started saving the day before you moved in with me."

         Courtney's chest warmed up with an unexplained feeling of completeness when he told her. She looked in his direction and into his eyes; she felt even more soothed after realizing he rubbed circles on her hand with this thumb. She gave him a look of contentment before positioned her head on his shoulder and stared at the TV while he slid his arm around her shoulder.

        "Thank you." He looked down at her, puzzled at her sudden gratitude.

        "For what?"

        "For giving me your shirt at the beach. For opening conversations about our feelings that I was too scared to have, and just growing with me. Had it been anyone else, I think my life would be very... fragmentary. Like, this just wouldn't feel right with another person. Maybe even... insipid? We might not make total sense to some, but I feel like I perfectly fit here." She let her mind speak for itself in this moment while she traced the lines of the tattoo on his hand out of habit.

        "You said it better than I did. I love you, and if I can express that in any way, I'll take it." Duncan knew he'd always remember feeling unfathomably lucky to have taken this route of fate.

        "I love you, too."

A/N: Well I hope you all enjoyed this one! Again thank you for reading and I’ll see you in act vi

[goodnight-socialiite]

Tag Yourself:

The Hargreeves Siblings as Aesthetics:

Luther;

Vines growing over an abandoned home; pine trees peeking up above a gray, murky mist; bitter, black coffee that’s cold; old black-and-white sitcoms that air at five in the morning; falling in love too easily; standing outside at night, watching the earth shift beneath the moon and stars; wearing sweaters and layers to feel safe; sensing unnecessary competition between your friends, and hating it; feeling unclean, despite just taking a shower; tipping your head back and waiting for the clouds to open; wanting to blend in with the crow;  wandering around your empty house, waiting for your parents to come home and fill the silence. 

Diego;

Wandering around the city at midnight, until finding a radio store with empty televisions in the window; rain that thunders and pours in the middle of the night, loud enough to wake you up; coming home late and falling asleep on the couch; wearing your scars proudly; dressing in leather and black; waking up early enough to watch the sunrise; feeling alone, despite being in a city that crowded with people; making sure no one is watching when you pour whiskey into your coffee; arguing for what is right above what your want, but knowing deep down that everything you say is motivated by bias; calling your mom and physically feeling the anxiety drain from your system.

Allison;

Taking the time and effort to know yourself and your strengths; romanticizing everything, like dancing alone and the sun setting, all while keeping your feet firmly in reality; having careful composure despite feeling your jaw twitch and the tears begin to prick your eyes; driving alone on an empty highway, the radio spewing old tunes from the fifties; mixed cocktails that make your head spin; dressing to impress no one but yourself; sipping white wine as the sun touches the earth; wrapping your arms around someone you’ve missed for years; sitting on the stairs and passing the time with a good book; sunsets in hazy shades of pink, orange, and purple.

Klaus;

Wearing no makeup except black eyeliner smudged across your eyelids; nightmares that you never remember in the morning; laughing louder than anyone else; people simultaneously loving and hating you; loving completely and fully, in a way that tears you apart; being in absolute control of the mood in a crowded room, having everyone’s laughter and tension in the palm of your hand; being underestimated by your peers; earning the title “lose cannon”; dressing how you want to and ignoring the attention it brings; feeling completely empty one minute, then full of emotion and purpose the next; wearing converse to every event; finding paint in your hair and under your fingernails; laying on the sidewalk and not knowing where to go.

Number Five:

Feeling superior without meaning to; wearing the same clothes everyday; being independent until your dying breath; carving out your own path ans accepting the consequences that comes with it; being too sarcastic for your own good; using self-importance as fuel to succeed in the future; drinking too much coffee; can’t sleep or sit sit without needing to be occupied; rarely enjoying physical contact; standing on the side of the road, watching cars pass by without having a destination of your own; notebooks upon notebooks crammed to the brim with sloppy writing and stray papers; putting in earbuds to avoid conversations.

Ben:

Laying in bed and listening to the rain gently hit your window, and waiting for the distant thunder; wearing full black in order to not draw any attention to yourself; finally listening to the voice at the back of your head that is desperately trying to keep you safe; having stacks of books and journals on your shelves that have never been opened; arriving to a party with every intention to leave in thirty minutes; laying on the ground, watching the clouds between your blinds as you lazily strum a guitar; bruises on your knuckles and arms; leather jackets and hoodies; always using a smile that never reaches your eyes.

Vanya:

Ink stains on your fingers and jeans; button-down shirts and heavy-looking boots; waking up in the morning, feeling as though your hadn’t slept at all; spends hours writing, but never sure if it will ever see publication; books with worn out covers and pages; the corners of your mouth turn up, but can never form a smile; late autumn nights with blistery winds and dropping temperatures; spending power outages by walking around the neighborhood, watching everyone else do the same thing; low ponytails; not letting everyone define you; growing up and getting out of that small town; making a name for yourself.

[lobocomicsandtoys]

JEAN GREY TRADE PAPERBACK VOL 01 NIGHTMARE FUEL

When the teenage Marvel Girl traveled through time and arrived in the present, she learned the terrible fate that befell her adult counterpart. Possessed by a cosmic entity called the Phoenix, that Jean Grey was trapped in an endless cycle of life and death. Now, determined to escape that future, young Jean sets out to write her own destiny. But when she has a premonition that the Phoenix is coming for her, she'll have to fight tooth and nail not to become its next victim! Jean enlists the help of some of its previous hosts - but will the ultimate brain trust of Rachel Grey, Quentin Quire, Hope Summers, and Peter and Illyana Rasputin have the answers she's searching for? Or will Jean have to cast her net wider across the Marvel Universe - to include Namor, Odinson, Psylocke and Doctor Strange? Collecting JEAN GREY #1-6

Available at Lobo Comics & Toys this coming Wednesday, 10/18/2017

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[jfsandoval]

Ignis Fatuus.

“Social reality is….nothing but a fragile, symbolic cobweb that can at any moment be torn aside by an intrusion of the real" - Slavoj Zizek

Chapter 1: ILLUSION

The commotion was unrelenting. There was the opening and slamming of the clunky register, the high-pitched screeching of the milk in the process of foaming, alongside the team of baristas announcing orders as they skidded on the wooden bar. Each sonic vibration was clutching his eardrums competing for attention. With his head pounding, the sounds echoing through the coffee shop felt like an avalanche. At some unknown point, however, the horde of noises culminated into some abstraction. Coughs, laughs, exaggerated hellos, and dramatized goodbyes. For Robert Lövestrand it all became a blur. With some serious yet subconscious effort he was able to ignore it all.

Once ignoring his surroundings, Robert honed in his thoughts. He found himself asking why he was awake so early. Rubbing his eyes and cracking his knuckles, Robert was doing mental gymnastics to stay awake. He didn’t want to leave the comfort of his bed. Who in their right mind would wake up and face the unforgiving cold Monday morning mist? The weekend had consisted of dissociated nights coupled with anxious afternoons. The outcome of this being a restlessness that intruded and entrenched itself in his everyday life. What had become of him?

Everything changed a few months earlier, when Robert’s company turned against him, and he lost the career had been investing in his whole life. Robert now found himself clinging to the only thing he had left: an artificial intelligence algorithm stuck on a flash drive. Regardless, Robert told himself it was worth it, that as much as it pained him to be awake so early outside of the comfort of his studio apartment where he had been walled up for the past three weeks, it was for good reason: to meet with Cecil Arelia. So there he waited, at the Peet's Coffee on the corner of 7th and 8th street in this urban bay area sprawl thousands dreamed of. And for what? To understand how exactly his life had turned from an emerging sistar to now being hunted down by the men and women behind the glass screens of all those startup corporations. So, there Robert sat, trying his best to not lose his most devoted work, aptly named: Peripheral_NET. Where had everything gone wrong?

Patience had been a skill Robert had acquired over the years and more so now with the ever growing feelings of danger which had been accumulating over his mulling weeks. Cracking the code of portals and then swiftly losing it, his newfound enemies could move in silence, lurking through the invisible, migrating in shadows. With his help, begrudgingly, they now had the power of omnipresence, these people could now exist anywhere and everywhere. That’s what you get when you merge artificial tech with the symbolic realm. There was no longer a need for physical commuting, depending on a linear cause-and-effect, or ironically enough waiting for things to fall in place. Pushing the veil of the visible to the symbolic world, you could no longer be a puppet to the whims of natural order you could pull/place/eradicate the strings themselves. Now in the day and age of technology- his passions, his life's work, had now ironically become his crux.

So there he sat: silent, waiting, stagnant. Patience is a funny thing isn't it? Patience in of itself after all is a state of neither here nor there- as much as one wants to live in the moment and forget the prospect of the future, they fail to do either and are pulled both ways missing the present moment. And so Robert found himself unable to escape his consuming what if’s of what was to come and all while unsuccessfully attempting to be grounded in the present moment. But Robert told himself to be patient, embracing cliche philosophies of reason behind actions, and purpose behind downfalls, one would hope that there was a reason why this was happening in the first place.

Robert unlocked his phone, and texted Cecil; “I’m here. Are you still coming?” To no avail, she failed to respond. Perhaps she was late, in this city of caffeine-fueled ambition traffic was frequent. He gave her the benefit of the doubt. He would just give her ten minutes and if she was a no-show he would pick up his things and leave. Drinking his iced dirty chai latte which swirled in marble lattices of amber and ivory, Robert sat in a reclining seat facing the window. Robert looked at the fog covering the ever steep hills which perhaps were once blossoming with poppies and sequoia trees but were now crowded with buildings and apartment complexes. He checked his phone here and there, but was wary of using it. Could they be tracking him? Could they have reached Cecil before he did? Was it all too late? Before he was completely consumed by thoughts his phone rang. It was an unknown number.

He stared and saw the phone vibrate on the coffee table. He was unsure of whether he should pick it up or let it go to voicemail. The phone vibrated louder as if in protest. Indecision plagued him but the clock was ticking, he needed to make his choice fast. He needed to decide now. Almost as if picking up on his thoughts, the phone appeared to shake with an accelerated vigor. He picked up his phone warily, there were probably only two rings left. He felt the phone vibrate once more. His thumb on the cold touch screen he began to slide the phone to answer. Putting the phone to his ear he felt the cold metal on his cheek and heard silence on the other side. He hesitated. Could this be Cecil? It couldn’t be though, he had her number saved. As if the caller could hear his thoughts a distorted voice responded as if whispering in his ear.

The stranger, in a crackly mystical voice said, “You’re probably wondering where she is right now aren’t you Mr. Lövestrand?”

Startled, Robert replied, “Who is this?”

In a cryptic response, “Are sure you can trust her? Trust can be as strong as steel yet just as easily unravel from a single loose string. How long have you known her?”

“How the hell do you know my name? I can have this number tracked. Tell me who you are. Either way I’ll find out”

“Don’t be fooled by appearances. Nightmares themselves start off as innocent dreams. We’ll talk again soon. Enjoy your drink.”

“Where are you—” Before Robert could fully respond, the phone clicked and he was left speaking with himself.

Robert was left in confusion. He was far from frightened, but the phone call was peculiar to say the least. He took it as a sign to head home. He picked up his things and set a Lyft to pick him up in exactly 3 minutes. He decided to meet the driver outside and wait by the sidewalk. It was windier than he had remembered, his brown old-navy overcoat was flapping viciously as he stood outside. As much as he wanted to not think much of the phone call, he couldn’t shake off the feeling that maybe some of what the caller was saying was true. How much did he really know her? They had met three months ago. And yet after a couple of sexual encounters, he knew only little of her life. But she knew much of his, and that was slightly unsettling now that he had come to think of it. Perhaps, she did have an upper hand in regards to knowing more personal facts about himself than he did to her. If she knew bits and pieces here and there that didn’t mean anything at all. He decided to stop overthinking, a bad habit he had picked up since his early years, and stood on the sidewalk.

The phone vibrated in his pocket, alerting him that his ride was here, he looked around and spotted a black sedan, with a young man in round spectacles no older than 25 in a gray hat waving at him. He crossed the street and as he opened the door to walk in, he heard from behind him a voice calling his name.

“And where do you think you’re going Robert?” It was Cecil.

Robert turned his head and stood up, “I didn’t think you were coming. I called you and it went to voicemail.”

“Well, let's just say I was fashionably late, do you still care for a bite to eat?” Cecil's black eyes piercing his nonchalant facade.

“Hmmm...I know a place by my apartment, why don't you hop on?” Robert lowered his head to the door to his uber. “You wouldn't mind if my friend tagged along with me right?”

Irritated from being placed in such an awkward position, the driver nodded and aggressively waved for both of them to come in. You could hear the emergency lights ticking relentlessly, as if ready to get back into the lanes of speeding cars and green lights. Robert opened the back door ajar, and signalled for Cecil to get inside. Clutching her black purse and hearing the clicking of heels on the cement floor Cecil did a semi-run to speed up, making sure to not fully follow instructions. Cecil took artistic interpretation from all orders, no one told her what to do. Even if the world would one day crumble before her very eyes, she would defy expectation and dance to the rhythms of crumbling earth she would because she could.

“Looks like chivalry isn’t dead after all” she said giving him a sly look

“Just get in before we get left behind” Robert responded abruptly.

Cecil ducked her head slightly to enter the car, and Robert stepped in behind her. As soon as the door closed, the driver sped off crossing the intersection heading uphill to the apparent wilderness of trees and fog to reach his place nearby in the presidio. The car was a centrifuge of febreeze and takeout. They sat in silence for a bit. Robert’s drink was melting and he could feel the condensation droplets wetting his hands. He dried them on the side of his jeans and looked over to Cecil who was staring out the window.

“So where exactly is your formidable place anyway?” Cecil started still looking out but with a sly smile forming at the cus of her mouth. “For your sake, I hope you're not trying to drag me down to your studio for another attempt at a romantic rendezvous.”

Chuckling with a menacing grin, “What a whimsical imagination Cecil, i'd never! Actually, I was thinking we could try out this Vietnamese cafe two blocks from my apartment. I'm sure that you out of all people would love it.”

“And how would you know that?” Displaying her signature seductive grin, “Have you been data-collecting and predicting my interests across my social media platforms?”

"Actually, I’ve been trying my best not to rely on electronic devices for human interactions any more. I haven’t entered Peripheral Net in three weeks” Pausing briefly as to recollect his thoughts, “The first place we sat down together to eat was at that hole-in-the-wall place near fisherman's wharf, remember?¨

“The same place where you offered me a spot in your AI research team in hopes to recruit me for PERIPHERAL_NET itself?¨

"Yes, and where you quickly declined. Deciding it was in your best interest to go off working with a private firm, moving to a petaluma and settling for the most practical option: data analytics" Robert said, looking at her. He noticed the contours of her face, the raven black hair, she was truly stunning.

With a deep sigh and short pause, Cecil responded, "Well life did not go exactly as planned for either of us did it? If so, we wouldn't be heading back to the same place we met all those years ago...¨

¨Yes, but if you wou---¨

¨---Life never goes to plan Robert. Years of compiled data and numerical codes couldn't have predicted the greed of your peers or how dangerous introducing an portal device could have been. Even in a tech-centered hub such as the silicon valley, surprising isn't it? Numbers can only predict so much, the evils and emotions of humanity have no computable deviation now do they?¨

¨Well, it may still be possible that a solu-––¨

¨No it does not, and we may very well never be able to Robert. Technology, exponentially complicated softwares, algorithms, they offer the solutions we think we want, but never the answers we need. You, out of all people should know that.¨

Silence filled the car, and the muddled radio station played in the background, bombarded with countless advertisements and shallow songs offering temporary feelings of invincibility that fade away as soon as the melody ends. The day had just begun, the sky was still partly dark, not even the sun was fully present. Entranced by the cars speeding by, colors of yellow and red lights, bikers rushing past, runners with their bright clothes and headphones on running on the sidewalks, birds singing their morning rituals, everyone as mundane and regular as ever, all while his life was far from it. Disillusioned, dismayed, dissociated, dreadful, and derailed, Robert's past was clinging burrowing into the depths of his thoughts and there was nothing he could do about it.

¨...There is a crash up ahead so that's as far as I can take you¨ the driver stated and began to brake, turning on his emergency lights. Cecil and the driver had momentary eye contact through his dash mirror.

Silence continued. Cecil was grabbing her things. Robert ever aloof in the sphere of his own mind.

¨Do you care to come Robert?¨ Cecil started drilling her eyes into the side of his head.

Silence. He didn't acknowledge her words, or anyone for that matter.

frustrated, Cecil raised her voice ¨Robert! Are you listening to me?¨

He always does this when things become too complicated, falling into the fortitude of his own mind Cecil thought to herself

Delayed but eventually the sound of his name awakened his conscience and Robert came back into reality. The opening of the door cemented and the gush of the brisk morning air startled him his entrance into the human realm. He turned and looked at Cecil saying “Yes?”

¨If you wanted a morning of contemplation and daydreaming, you shouldn't have invited me.¨

“---- yeah, I was just remembering something. got trailed off for a biẗ¨

“Whatever...let's just get out of the car, and let our lovely driver go on his own merry way. He has better things to do than wait for us.” She cut off her crystal gaze with Robert, and tapped the shoulder of the man wearing a olive green corduroy jacket with a bill saying, “My apologies from the both of us, have a nice day.¨

“Oh, yes! Sorry. it's a bit too early for me still” Robert interjected with a nervous chuckle.

In the middle of his half dazed and half awake meaningless apology, Cecil grabbed his arm and pulled him out as the driver irritated sped away, probably already heading for his next pick up as there were others needing a ride for their monotonous 9 to 5's.

The red neon sign stating OPEN was bright, and inside he could already see a blonde haired waitress in a black and white striped long sleeved t-shirt, jeans, and some black converse, taking an older couples order through the window which stated, in bold dark orange italic letters: Rustic Precipice. They crossed the street, Robert could hear the seagulls flapping their wings, the bustling of tourists walking to the pier, and he could hear the wind in the distance. He opened the door and held it open for Cecil who walked in. Cecil in defiance raised her hands letting him know he should go first. Before Robert stepped in, the hairs on his neck stood up and a gust of wind circulated his entire body, he surveyed the street unable to shake the feeling that they were not alone. Outside his field of vision, a cameraman shutter clicked consecutively three times and swiftly drove away in a black sleek motorcycle, disappearing into the morning mist again.

||||||

[@BlankUser291]: It seems our target is still in San Francisco. Reference the images attached.

[@thenefaria]: That’s all we need for now. Keep following them and Remain in the area

[@BlankUser291]: Alright. How will I know when it’s time?

[@thenegaria]: No need to worry about that, We know how to find you. Scrap the phone & Stay put.

||||

[circumswoop]

Game & performance.

The opening shot of The Killing Of A Sacred Deer is of a heart splayed, a chest jacked open with ribs akimbo. It is apparently a real heart: photographed in extremis, under surgical duress. With its discernible hemispheres, the heart almost looks more like a brain gobbed in unspeakable fat. If a brain cld be said to beat, it would look like this: the grossest opening shot maybe in movies, or at least that I have ever seen. What comes from confusing the brain and the heart, however lightly? Utter gore, and Colin Farrell being ritually undressed afterward, headlamp and funny surgical glasses on top of other funny surgical glasses and layers of scrubs and gloves reversing off him. If all your life you have been sick with fantasy abt hospitals and their demented sense of enlightenment––the Byzantine corridors the corners of which echo with coughs, in light that can only be described as taurine-colored––you will not so much watch as wander this movie, the latest from a Greek filmmaker whose remade myths are both catchier and kitschier than the originals.

Steeped as easily in opera, The Killing Of A Sacred Deer explores impossibly big moods with a neck-craning soundtrack of Schubert and Ravel. But for a film addicted to classicism, the visual joke of Nicole Kidman being married to another doctor would not be possible if you've never had an affair with Eyes Wide Shut. Alice Harford, having rid herself of the locked-down and oblivious Dr. Bill, landed in the arms of a cardiac surgeon with several shakers full of salt and pepper in his beard. When nicole stares into the mirror of a medicine chest you think she will withdraw a band-aid container that contains weed instead of band-aids. This pot is making her aggressive. No it’s not the pot. It’s you.

Giorgios Lanthimos is notorious for having his actors speak in gray mono, not the stereo of Actorville. This mannerism is Mametian, and takes me back to watching State & Main or Spartan when I was a moviegoing pup, trying to spot how Sarah Jessica Parker or Val Kilmer arrived at such impeccable deadpan. Young audiences schooled on YouTube minimalism may recognize it better now than I did then, albeit as something else. Lanthimos has his own version of Mamet’s command to “just say the lines”, so there are no scenes in TKOASD that cld rightly be called “acted” except for one in which Farrell expertly trashes a kitchen. And yet the threadbare flatness of the performances is still stylized, even glamorized, into fantastic states of catatonia or even anhedonia. The inability to feel pleasure, carried by Farrell, contrasts with the inability to feel anything at all, carried by Kidman: her reliance on psychosomatic diagnoses for her children falling legless to the floor is just her belief that they’ll never stand on their own.

Included in the soundtrack is “Enantiodromia”, a piece by the (also Greek) composer Jani Christou that alternates between narrow and wide frequencies. Carl Jung used the term enantiodromia for “the emergence of the unconscious opposite in the course of time”. He updated this from Heraclitus, flipping it into “the most marvelous of all psychological laws”–that which accounts for the subconscious occasionally overruling control freaks. (Jung would describe it as extreme one-sidedness, but he meant control freaks.) The first and really only thing Colin Farrell discusses at length in TKOASD is wristwatches, their waterproof depth and if metal or leather bands are better. For insisting on an ordered life, his unconscious opposite punishes him with a disordered effect, scrambling the health of his family into nightmare fuel. It’s treated as a placed-upon curse by the script, but the odd boy who introduces this malevolence to Farrell’s life probably doesn’t know his Jung from his Young Thug. He simply sells Farrell on the concept of a favor owed, then lures him into a funhouse of unconscious glitch. 

Farrell fears two things: drowning without knowing what time it is (apparently), and killing a patient. He even denies the second one is possible, insisting that surgeons don’t kill patients anesthesiologists do. The boy character, played by the fascinating Irish actor Barry Keoghan, is the son of a patient who died on Farrell’s table which still doesn’t remind Farrell of revenge––only recompense. So when the boy begins to art-direct Farrell’s life, promising catastrophe in three-act structure (paralysis, bleeding from the eyes, death), Farrell’s too committed as a father figure to get out with honor. One thing the Greeks knew: honor as tool for sorting things is always DOA.

As a surgeon, Farrell simply regards the unconscious as a performance space. This extends to erotics, as he and Nicole act out a bizarre and really hot operating room scenario as sexual prelude. General anesthetic? Nicole asks, semi-naked, before going limp. First of all, I’m thrilled by how much this rape fantasy probably horrified woke Twitter. But later, when Nicole ups the ante and gets naked on her own, Farrell isn’t interested. There’s a plague on his family so he’s got a lot going on, but it’s more like he cannot block a sex scene if there’s too much motility. 

French neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot got famous for expanding the limits of hysteria, and for his pyromanic teaching style that probably tricked Freud, his most famous student, into thinking he was a performer. Charcot’s work moved the chains on nervous abnormalities, using techniques like hypnosis to source seats of trauma. He also liked to get high and paint. His portraits and caricatures were known to liven up meetings. Although his findings on hysteria eroded, he is still reputed as the father of neurology. Several neuropathological disorders carry his name, including Charcot arthropathy––a progressive denaturing of weight-bearing joints. This disconnect between bone and soft tissue usually affects the foot or ankle, and can result in pathologic fractures and paralyses––both of which Charcot interrogated as neurotraumatic. So, the condition that leaves Colin Farrell’s teen daughter and adolescent son suddenly unable to use their legs can be explained as a rare or unprecedented form of Charcot arthropathy, which none of the experts at Farrell’s hospital think of since it’s ordinarily progressive. The effects of a curse are not always immediate, but can be. 

Images of the kids slithering down steps and across floors are so disturbing they cause Farrell to confess that he once jerked off his own dad. His dad was asleep and there was no coercion, but this is still a trauma so unbelievable it must be true. Farrell is so desperate to prove his son is faking paralysis that he relates it as heartfelt. Or his brain and heart have finally traded places. Either way it’s a morale-destroying instance of metapraxis, normality blurred by the deep need to perform. The battle of the pragmatic against the unconscious is rendered hilariously anecdotal, as Lanthimos tips his farcical hand. 

Altogether austere, absolutely clinical scenes in basements and one involving the most nightmarish spaghetti usage since Gummo echo further perversity and nonsense. Jung, writing abt the psychoid archetype, found “no hope that the validity of any statement about unconscious states or processes will ever be verified scientifically”. But filmically? Performatively? The Killing Of A Sacred Deer is either tragedy reëxperienced as camp, or a feature-length realization that the desires for recompense and revenge are never evenly matched. Although in a race of opposites, they’re never far apart. 

[spnsimpleman]

Cavanaugh Park

This is my One Shot for @iwantthedean ‘s SoCo summer challenge!! 

My lyric prompt was “You always said Destiny would blow me away.”  The whole song, Cavanaugh Park by Something Corporate, had a hand in inspiring this one shot.  

Reader x Dean

Word Count: 4653

Warning: mentions/memories of attempted rape.

And this is where it all goes sideways. Yes, even for a hot shot like me. As I stood in the dark alley across the street and watched the candy coated idiot I’d been tailing all night slip behind her very nice apartment door, the thing I thought I was tracking had snuck up behind me.

Three fucking days in the strip club from hell very aptly named Hell’s Angels that held not only strippers as any type of demon or supernatural creature desired but also legit hell scape decor. Well, top two levels, at least, and depending on who you talked to, it wasn’t that hellish. Even in hell, they get all snobby.

That glitter storm wench that probably just skipped into her fancy ass kitchen and popped a bottle of wine was the only one with any connection to the two men and one woman who lost their shit and destroyed someone they cared about. But of course, that’s how a clever Siren would play it even if it didn’t know anyone was watching.

This one covered their tracks like a goddamn pro and poked me in the back with a small gun like I was some stupid hack on my first hunt. 

“Well, fuck me.”

“Ooo, whatta mouth,” she purred in my ear, really laying it on thick. “I’d really like to see what you could do with it, sailor.”

You always said Destiny would blow me away, pops. I just never knew it would be so fucking literal. “That’s either the business end of a tiny gun or the end of your stiletto needs a little work, Destiny.”

Destiny, the terrible, too-innocent-and-prude-for-this-job stripper who dressed as a fallen angel complete with broken gray wings. Like I said, fuck me. Bravo, Fate, you nasty bitch. She’s probably cackling her ass off somewhere too.

The gun pressed harder into my back before the blade of a knife, my fucking bronze dagger to be precise, kissed my jugular. “Oh, honey,” she hummed and sniffed my neck. “All thorns and… mmm, aren’t you interesting?”

I didn’t really have a move at this point so I went for my old stand by, fake it til you make it. “Putting your friend on them to hide your scent? Poor Candy never saw it coming, did she? You’re a terrible friend and a bloody awful stripper. Anyone ever tell you that?”

“Better to have poor friends than none at all,” she giggled. She fucking giggled in my ear.

“Oh, fuck you.”

She sniffed my hair and exhaled with a sigh that held way too much arousal for my taste, “well, they didn’t, did they?” Her hand slid around my waist and tucked into the front of my jeans. She was checking for more weapons. Smart, damn it. I really hate the clever ones. “You are delicious. I love a good challenge.” The voice morphed on her last word, the stripper who’d been Candy’s innocent best friend forced to work to make ends meet was gone as the octave dropped and took on a distinctly male pitch. “Just a voice. Who knew a human could be so simple?” It whispered against the side of my neck with a voice from long ago.

It spun me around and I jabbed my fist into its wrist, knocking the dagger away. I grinned then had to clench down on every reaction to the fuzzy blur in front of me. It still had the gun and didn’t seem at all bothered by my removal of its second weapon.

“I could be your hero. I could be your everything.” That voice, I knew that voice.

I growled, “I am my own hero.”

“Not that night. I was.” I could hear the smile in the voice and it sickened me. It shouldn’t affect me so much, but I couldn’t stop the rage flowing back as the memory hit me hard.

Could Sirens do that? Pull forth the worst memory and that was how they boosted their victims urge to do what they wanted? But it didn’t make sense. Who knew where those boys were today.

The dark blur leaned in, “mmm, true. I guess we’ll just have to find some replacements. Surrogates can work just as well, at least I would make that sacrifice for you. Would you make the sacrifice for me?”

“Sacrifice?” I grit my teeth, “I don’t love them, they are nothing. That’s not your ballpark.” I kept my eyes open refusing to give a straight answer or block out the blur in front of me. I’d had that dream too many times and wasn’t willing to make it easier for it. I glared, not even glancing in the direction of the bronze dagger I would soon plunge in its chest. Hopefully, it would forget about it and keep all its attention on me.

The blur of a body pressed against me and sniffed from my chest all the way up the side of my face. I shivered and it pissed me off.

“There’s no one you love left, I make exceptions for special cases and honey, I love something a little different.”

The voice still fucked with me, how could it find that memory so easily? I hadn’t thought of that night in years. I hadn’t had the nightmare in weeks, if not months. A rough hand was on my face squeezing my cheeks trying to get me to open my mouth. So unlike the gentle hands that pulled me from the nightmare before it took another horrific turn.

The flash hit me hard, that night so long ago, two boys prying my legs open as the other held my arms above my head. I had screamed and fought like hell until two sucker punches smashed into my face. I could almost feel the blood vessels bursting, the pain blossoming around my eyes…

My jaw started to open and knocked me from the nightmare’s hold. I shoved away the images and kicked out hard. The siren’s grip slipped, the gun clattered across the asphalt as it stumbled back a step swinging its arms to balance. I gave it another swift kick square in its blurry chest. It crashed to the ground with a satisfying thud against the brick wall and I took off for the dagger.

But the memory wasn’t done with me yet, maybe the siren had a way of pulling it forward. It continued to play out in my head, words screaming from the guy that had pulled me from the pack of animals clawing at me. Go! RUN! GET OUT OF HERE!

The sounds of a fight behind me but I kept going, kept running no matter how many times I fell. I couldn’t see much through my swollen eyes but what was behind me could be so much worse. I still felt their rough hands on me, the stink of their breath, the slurring taunts echoing in my head no matter how far I stumbled…

No! I shook out of it. I didn’t run anymore.

The alleyway filtered back in, the nightmare cleared completely and I spotted the dagger only a foot to my left; I dove for it. I closed my hand around the handle I had made myself to fit like a glove as adrenaline rushed through my veins. I stood but the siren had caught up, shoving me into the brick wall. It grabbed my wrist and slammed it above my head but I wouldn’t let go. That dagger was mine. I wasn’t letting go.

I made myself a promise that night it wanted me to remember so damn bad, that I would never be overpowered again. If they had brawn, I had the smarts and I kicked the shit out of myself to heighten my brawn as well. There was always possibilities, I just had to find them. Outwit, outplay, outlast, or just straight up beat them with stubbornness. My pops called it determination, my uncle called it will power, but a rose by any other name and all that junk. Out-stubborn was kind of my forte.

Pride swelled in my chest when it stopped trying to break the dagger from my grip but that deflated quickly when I realized it didn’t need me to let go. The siren’s unidentifiable face was hovering over mine and the anger radiated off the only image I had of the guy that had saved me when I was sixteen. There was another promise I had made that night as I ran, that I would find him and thank him, but it’s impossible to thank a ghost. My promise morphed into being like him; when something’s wrong, don’t turn a blind eye, kick it in the ass.

It roughly grabbed my face and no matter how hard I grit my teeth, my jaw was slowly opening. No, no, no, NO! I struggled against it but its weight and position made it impossible to move. I glared, refusing to give up and become the one thing I had fought against my whole life.

It opened its blurry mouth and the pit that spit poison to control me was in there somewhere. I thrashed as much as I could but it wasn’t even close to any good. We both knew it and it infuriated me. Which gave me an idea.

I pulled my hand away from the wall with every ounce of that rage fueling me, each half an inch I gained messed with it. I grinned, “that’s right, bitch. Tell me you’re my hero again.”

“HEY!”

The weight shifted against me but it gripped my wrist tighter and slammed it back to the wall. “I’ll get to…” It’s blurry head turned and then it roared, “YOU!”

I stared at the man stalking toward us with a voice that held an air of familiarity. He stopped in the center of the alleyway where just enough of the street light landed on his face. A brief flash of confusion crossed his quite ruggedly handsome face as he studied the blur holding me. I caught a glimpse of a bronze dagger at his waist. A hunter. Fucking figures.

His hand dropped near his barely hidden dagger and he taunted, “if you were going for the Blob I think you got the wrong element there, sport.”

The blur vibrated, moving a step in the man’s direction before looking at me. It couldn’t make up its mind.

“Come and get it, shadow bitch!”

I flinched as it wrenched its grip away from my arm then raked its nails against my wrist. It roared and charged the other hunter. I cradled my wrists against my chest and stood there watching the action play out. Something about the hunter’s voice…

It lunged at the hunter and the scuffle was confusing. The blur and the man trading blows and remarks as it tried to spit its poison.

Go! RUN! GET OUT OF HERE!

The voice shouted and it took me a second to realize it was only in my head. I closed my eyes shaking the remnants of the memory and nightmare off with a mantra of my own making. I am Y/n, I am a fucking awesome hunter. I was a victim, but that never defined me just like my name or my mistakes don’t define me. I define me by every action, every decision, every damn time I scrape myself up off the floor and move the fuck on. I am a survivor, a fighter, and a goddamn badass with a blade!

I snapped my eyes open. Time to go to work. I pushed off the wall and assessed my best way in. The siren had changed, had shaped back into Destiny. Apparently, it considered the man as the room’s more dangerous occupant. Good. I liked to be underestimated.

It slammed the man into the wall and leaned in as I moved around behind it dipping the dagger into the blood filled pouch thankfully still attached to my belt.

“Oh, baby, are we gonna have some fun.”

I rushed the last few steps and plunged the knife into its back. It shrieked as it spun around. “Raincheck, bitch.” The anger I felt from the blurred image was painted all over Destiny’s face. “I guess you’re not the right Destiny after all.” I side kicked her into the wall and the point of the dagger popped through her chest. The siren finally dropped and I stepped back.

The man pushed off the wall and looked at me, “you’re a hunter?”

“Takes one to know one.” Wow, real smooth. I met his gaze and hopefully kept my inner thought to myself.

He studied my face and his brows furrowed. “Do I know you?”

“I don’t know you so, I guess not.”

He dropped his gaze and sighed as he rolled his shoulders. He surveyed the mess we had made in the alley but really who would notice?

“You wanna get a drink?”

I glanced down at the body of a woman flat on her face between us. My hackles rose, I didn’t owe him anything. “It was impossible to move where it had me but I was getting under its skin.” I knew how hunters were but I had to admit I was curious. His voice had such a touch of familiarity and kinda sounded like… no, it was just because the memory was so fresh but… there was no such thing as coincidence, did I just trade one monster for another? My mind warred and I glanced up trying to study him without looking at all interested.

“You seemed to have a good handle.”

“Don’t patronize me.”

He held up his hands, “I was just trying…” He sighed again and his body language spoke of a man running on little energy. He dropped his hands, “I need a drink. It’s late and you just closed my case. You can join if you want. It was just the first thing that came to mind. I’m Dean, by the way.”

I eyed him for a moment, trying to figure out why it hadn’t occurred to me that I didn’t even know his name. “Dean.” I pointed to myself, “Y/n.” Wow… way to go, Tarzan. “Sure.” I shrugged, “I would head to a bar anyway. I’m starving and really could use a drink.” Hello, I’m crazy lady and now that you’ve given me your name, I’m totally cool with going out with you. Shit. Getting a drink with you on a totally we’re in the same career field way. Ugh, fuck.

He gave me a nod and lifted the siren up easily. Show off. “Think you could help me get around that apartment building unnoticed? I’ve got a hole out back.”

Double show off. I gave a sharp nod and walked to the mouth of the alley. I pulled my gun from my back holster and shot out the two closest streetlights.

“You have a silencer?”

I winked but he probably couldn’t see it. “Top of the line, C.I.A. research and development. Go across, I’ll keep a look out to distract anyone until you get into the next alley.”

I may have walked behind him to study the way he moved and how he carried himself or maybe tried to figure out just how much muscle he had under that flannel shirt. He was way better looking than most, if not all, the hunters I’ve ever had contact with but there was no way in hell this man had any of my trust.

I was no damsel in distress. Never again. But if he was nice and we get along, I might just play right into his bed. It would give me a chance to check out what he’s packing in his hunter’s bag of toys and maybe find out who he was.

He dropped the body in the hole and lifted a shovel with a glance my way. He certainly had nice bone structure, I’d give him that. “What, no backup shovel?”

He looked at me as he pushed dirt into the hole, “why would I have a second?”

I shrugged and looked around, “never know when help might show up.”

He chuckled, “yeah. I’d just ask them if they wanted to help me hide a body.”

“I tried that once.”

He stopped and stared at me, “really?”

I smirked, “it was either that or try to pretend it wasn’t a body when I didn’t have anything but the head covered.”

He threw his head back and laughed. It was a nice laugh, maybe too loud for the situation we were in but maybe that’s what made it better. Maybe I might just see what he’s packing under those jeans too.

~~

Dean watched Y/n as she made her way across the floor of the tavern. He had chosen the first open booth and wasn’t completely sure she’d even come. She wasn’t stupid; she didn’t know him and didn’t trust him. That much was easy to uncover but he was a hunter so maybe she was curious. There didn’t seem to be many of them left anymore.

He smiled as she slid into the bench seat across from him. He raised his hand catching the eye of the waitress, “I ordered already. I didn’t think you’d show.”

“Sorry, I needed to change. That damn glitter was driving me nuts.”

The blonde waitress turned that smile on bright as she sauntered over. Oh yeah, she was definitely into him. Too bad he just didn’t have it in him tonight. Her gaze flicked to the newcomer and she kept that smile on without even a crack in it, “what can I get ya?”

She ordered a burger and a whiskey then the waitress swayed those hips away. Y/n shifted in her seat and he glanced around trying not to stare. It was driving him crazy that something felt so damn familiar but the name didn’t ring any bells and they didn’t run in the same circles.

He shook it all off as the situation just being similar to so many other cases, but something had tugged up that old memory when he was seventeen and stumbled upon monsters of a different kind. He couldn’t even remember the name of the town. He should, it was the first time he got arrested and the asshole cops didn’t believe his story. There wasn’t even anything supernatural involved. At least, dad believed him though.

The jail cell wasn’t uncomfortable as much as it pissed him off. He was the hero here and yet they were treating him as the fucking bad guy. The cell finally opened and the uniformed officer waved him forward. “Your father is here.”

“Good. Someone with a brain is finally in the building,” he spat as he moved out. The officer pushed him. “Fucker,” he hissed under his breath covered by a cough as he walked down a hallway toward the next room.

His dad stood next to a desk looking pissed. Damn, he’d have to get the real story out quick.

“Dean.”

“Dad, you know I wouldn’t…”

“This officer said you beat the living hell out of three local boys. Is that true?”

“Yes.”

A flash of shock in his eyes, what did he think happened? Then the tight line in his mouth, the jerk in his jaw muscle. “What in the hell…”

“They were trying to rape a girl! I got them off her and told her to run! Just because these assholes can’t do their damn job they blame everything on me!”

The fat ass sorry excuse of an officer leaned on his desk, “the boys say there was no one else…”

“Of course, they would!” He clenched his fists not caring how much they ached.

Detective Chuckles crossed his arms over his chest. “These boys are known here in town. They’re good kids and no girl has called in or come in about an assault.”

Dean dropped his head and shook it. These assholes were going to pin this whole thing on him because he wasn’t local. Sonsofbitches.

“Yes, I’m sure a terrified girl who just went through the worst experience of her life thought her best option would be to come forward against three of the good ol’ boys in town.”

Dean snapped his head up and stared at the barely concealed rage that rolled off his dad.

“What would you have said to her? That it was her word against the good local boys who all denied it?”

The two officers ruffled and rolled their shoulders. Detective Chuckles responded as he tightened his arms across his chest, “the only evidence we have…”

His dad’s face twisted and he slammed his fist on Detective Fatass’s desk. “Did you even look at the area? Did you even consider my son’s story? What the hell were those boys doing out there, huh? Did you do your job at all or just take the good local boys word for it?”

His dad gave them barely a second before he steamrolled on. “I don’t see anyone else here but my son so I’m pretty damn sure what happened here.” He pulled out his FBI badge and slammed it on the desk. “You let my son go now and we don’t have to go any further but I’m telling you now, I’m watching this station. I’m keeping my eye on this town because if it happened tonight, it could’ve happened before. If they got away with it tonight, they’ll probably do it again. Clean up your town and do your fucking job.” The officers stared at a livid John Winchester and Chuckles even had his jaw hanging like a broken rear bumper. “Get those fucking cuffs off my boy, now.”

Dean walked out of the station completely blown away. His dad was still fuming as they strode to their sides of the car. His dad stopped before opening the driver’s door and looked at Dean over the roof. “What…” He grit his teeth and looked away, “did you stop them?”

Dean dropped his gaze as the memory of earlier that night shot into the foreground, “they didn’t but… I didn’t get there soon enough. Jesus, dad, I hung out with those guys at school. Adam was…” Dean shook his head, his stomach churning at what he found when he made it to the area of the park Jordan had told him to meet. “If you saw what they had done to her… I just lost it. They were ripping her underwear off when I got there and I caught a glimpse of her face. I was running late because I stole a forty to bring… if I had been on time…” His muscles clenched and he had a sudden need to punch something again. “I did beat the shit out of them and I would do it again.”

His dad was quiet and he looked up. His dad was smiling but there was something there in his eyes, haunted. “Good. No man should ever treat a woman like that. And anyone that does deserves whatever you gave him.”

“You still here with me, Dean?”

He shook his head and looked up at the strong, self-possessed woman who killed the siren. He hoped that girl had the chance to become something like her, or just the chance to become whatever the hell she wanted. He cleared his throat, “yeah, sorry. Just… memories sneaking up on me.”

She nodded, looking into her glass. Another haunted look. “Yeah, I know all about that.”

“You don’t have to answer but what was with the siren…  going all shadowman?”

She shrugged and rolled her eyes. “It said I didn’t know what I really desired. Just knew a voice.” She forced a laugh but her back tensed, “there’s no one left I love so… and nothing I’m in desperate need of, you know? When I’m tired, I sleep. When I’m hungry, I eat. When I’m feisty…” she blushed and took another sip from her glass, “you know what I’m saying. The hunter’s lifestyle.” She turned her glass as she stared down at it.

“Yes.” He smirked, “my brother disagrees with what he calls my version of the lifestyle but sometimes you just need a good roll in the hay to clear out the nightmares.” He took a swig from his beer, “he’s also a pain in the ass so…”

She chuckled, “I don’t know. Having a partner sure would make hunting a bit easier but it’s hard to find one that doesn’t screw shit up or make you want to kill them because they think they get a free pass in your pants just because you closed a case.” She glanced at him with a smirk, “but you probably don’t have that problem.”

“Are you kidding? I get that problem all the time. Damn hunters and insane libidos. Thinking they can get in my pants just because they looked my way.”

She stared at him and he thought he read her wrong until she finally let go and laughed. A full out burst of joy. The tight hold she had over her features softened, her eyes brightened and glittered in the soft light above their booth, and her smile was just something else. He loved it. Every damn carefree second of it.

Her laughter calmed and she looked down at her glass, her mouth curled in a grin and her face warm with a glow that made him lean a little closer. She glanced his way before finally gazing into his eyes again, she lost some of that edge from earlier, “I gotta admit, this is nice. I thought you’d push liquor on me and try to talk me into a quickie in the bathroom. You’re a welcome change on this shitty road.”

“Never. The bathroom definitely wouldn’t give me enough time.” He winked, “I’m just surprised we’ve never bumped into each other before. There’s not many of us left.”

“And I thought the Winchesters were a damn myth.”

He grinned, “is that right?”

“I mean come on, do you know half the things they say about you? That you’ve got an angel for a best friend, that God himself brought you back from the dead, multiple times mind you, and you shacked up with a vampire in purgatory.” She cackled, “I mean seriously…” her sparkling eyes met his and her smile faltered. “You’ve gotta be shitting me.”

“Okay, the vampire shacking up thing is completely misconstrued…”

“Fuck you.”

He pulled back, studying her assessing gaze, “ahh…”

The waitress set down their plates and glanced between the two of them, “need anything else?”

She narrowed her eyes then turned to the waitress, “we need more whiskey, thanks.”

The waitress looked at him and he nodded. She headed back to the bar as y/n leaned forward, “I can tell if you’re lying. I was trained by the best.”

“Would you like to talk to that angel?” He pulled out his cell phone.

She quirked a brow, “you’re going to call him. You’re telling me your angel has a cell phone?”

He nodded, “and a ridiculous voicemail.”

“Bullshit.”

“You wanna put some money down on that?”

She leaned back and eyed him. He swiped the phone open, tapped the right icon, then held his finger over Cas’s contact.

“If you can prove some of the wildest theories,” she grinned, “I’ll give you fifty bucks and for each one you can’t, you owe me.”

Dean had a feeling she held an ace but he knew some of the stories and most were true. She lifted her burger as if she was no longer concerned but she smiled before taking a bite with a look in her eye he knew well.

This night was just about to get awesome. Thank you, Destiny. Nah, fuck her. He still had it. Some things just never change.

@duchessofwinchester , @jodyri, @jencharlan , @deanssweetheart23 @torn-and-frayed , @chrisatplay , @mogaruke , @captainemwinchester , @escabell , @mrswhozeewhatsis

[real-life-pine-tree]

Rehabilitation: Knight or Beast (5/?)

Side effects may include a loss of self-identity and individuality, frequent nightmares, questioning your own existence, severe mental trauma, constant panic attacks, spontaneous crying at random moments, and a strong desire to stay with loved ones at all cost. Co-written with @violetganache42​​. Takes place between Chapters 6 and 7 of Arc-V Aftermath.

The next morning, back at the Sakaki residence, Yuya and Yuto were both on the second floor getting ready for the weekend. After the fireworks show last night, the family decided their recently-discovered relative can have a sleepover with his cousin. Right now, Yuto was showering to freshen up and get rid of his bed head while Yuya had a bit of an empty stomach and hoped this wouldn't be similar to the day he dueled against Reed Pepper.

"Hey Yuya, can you hand me another bottle of shampoo?" Yuto asked.

"Shouldn't one bottle be enough?" Yuya asked as he washed his face and neck.

"No," Yuto answered. Then he proceeded to toss an empty bottle of shampoo out of the shower.

Yuya was surprised. "There was a third of shampoo left in there!" he pointed out.

"And I need a bit more," Yuto explained. "My hair is longer and thicker than yours, so I need more shampoo than what you normally use."

It was practically a never-ending shampoo issue for him. On the day of the LID dance, he had to use Yuya's shampoo brand because there wasn't any Spike and Curl; now that there were some for him, he uses the bottles up faster and uses a larger amount for his eggplant-shaped hair.

"Fine," Yuya said. He took out a bottle of Spike and Curl from the bathroom cabinet and tossed it to Yuto. "But this is the last bottle! Mom only bought two."

Using the last bottle, Yuto added a bit more of his shampoo to wash his hair and proceed with the rest of his shower. He usually showers in the morning and follows it up with brushing and blow-drying his naturally spiky hair so that it will look nice for the day. Yuya's routine was different in which he showers at night and combs his hair in the morning to untangle any knots that may have formed when he was sleeping.

When Yuya was done washing up, he proceeded to comb his hair. While that was going on, Yuto had finished with his shower. He wrapped a towel around his waist and stepped out of the shower. He then plugged in a hairdryer and proceeded to brush/blow-dry his hair.

"Geez Yuto, doesn't that seem a little too much?" Yuya asked.

"Not for me," Yuto clarified. "My hair is much thicker than yours, so I need to properly maintain it on a constant basis."

Yuya always preferred combing because he felt like hairdryers make his hair…flatter and straighter. Of course, it wasn't as thick and spiky as Yuto's, but it sure is soft and fluffy. Heck, their contrasting textures and colors pretty much gave them their different physical appearances yet so many people couldn't tell the two apart for a while…that is until Alex noticed Yuya's hairstyle and mistook it for a wig, marking the end of the color blind situation among the Yu-Salad.

Yuya chuckled at the memory, which Yuto quickly noted. "What's so funny?" the XYZ Duelist asked.

"I was thinking about when I first met Alex," Yuya said. "He thought my hair was a wig."

"That's not surprising," Yuto said. He turned off the hairdryer and brushed his now-dry hair into place. "Alex is one of my close friends. He can easily recognize my hair in an instant. He even calls me 'eggplant head'."

"Kinda like how Sora calls me 'tomato head'?" Yuya asked, placing his comb on the bathroom counter and finger-combing his hair to help emphasize the fluffiness.

"I guess," Yuto answered.

Now that he thought about it, his other two counterparts may have also been given nicknames based on their food-like hairstyles. He knows Yugo often gets called a moron, but how often does he get called "banana bangs"? What about Yuri? He was bound to be referred to as "cabbage head" by someone, but they only recently met after Yuya's revival; Yuto wasn't counting the duel prior to Zarc's return because he was fully corrupted by the darkness and it caused him to assist his Fusion and Synchro counterparts in convincing Yuya to reuniting as one again. Regardless, he wasn't entirely sure if Yuri has been called "cabbage head" at all since he and Celina are practically rivals at this point.

"By the way, mom got some new clothes for you," Yuya said.

Yuto was surprised to hear that. "When?" he asked, finishing with brushing his hair.

"After she found out you're her nephew," Yuya answered as he ruffled his own hair a bit. "I hope you don't mind wearing some Pendulum Dimension-native outfits."

"Of course not," Yuto said. "I could use a change in style."

Yuya's new clothes consist of a white t-shirt containing an orange diamond overlapping a light blue square and a pair of dark greenish pants with a lighter chartreuse stripe around the waist that contain medium greenish strings that tie and help give support to the pants. Yuto's were incorporated of a light gray tanktop, a dark gray, short-sleeved, button-up shirt, and dark jeans with a black belt.

When the cousins got dressed in Yuya's room, Yuto was satisfied with his new look. "Not bad," he said, looking at his reflection in the mirror as he adjusted his glasses. "I could get used to Pendulum Dimension fashion."

"That's the spirit!" Yuya cheerfully said. "Now come on, mom made fresh pancakes and I don't want Sora eating all of it."

The two cousins left Yuya's room. "Why does Sora live here now?" Yuto asked. "And why is he your adopted brother?"

"Funny story," Yuya replied. "After the whole Zarc thing, everyone returned to their home dimensions, but Sora admitted that he doesn't have any memories of his birth family. So mom got Leo to sign some adoption papers and now Sora is part of the Sakaki family."

Yuto never knew about this information; Celina and Yuri didn't have memories of their families, but that was because they became existent after Ray and Zarc split. How come Sora doesn't have memories of the Perse family if he wasn't a reincarnation?

"What happened to his memories?" Yuto asked.

"I'm not really sure," Yuya admitted. "He said his first memory was waking up in a lab. He doesn't have any memories prior to joining Duel Academy. Apparently that was part of the previous student registration program before Leo changed it."

Leo initially wanted to have all the new students' memories erased because he wanted to mold them into loyal—albeit ruthless for a selected few—soldiers capable of assisting him in bringing back the Original Dimension by carding people to fuel ARC-V. The last thing anyone needed was to think of their loved ones.

"That would explain why Sora apparently became attached to your m- I-I mean, Aunt Yoko," Yuto said. "He probably doesn't even remember what his mom looks like."

"Probably," Yuya agreed as he approached the pole he normally uses to get downstairs.

Yuto noticed the pole as well. "Couldn't we take the stairs?" he asked.

"Yeah, but this way is more fun," Yuya answered. He grabbed onto the pole and placed both hands on it before wrapping his legs around it and sliding down with Yuto watching on.

"You want me to go down that pole?" Yuto asked.

"Yep!" Yuya happily replied.

Yuto has never went down a pole in his life; heck, it was rather a bit peculiar that a house like this would even have one. "Alright..." he said, carefully grabbing onto the pole.

Yuto's hands got a firm grip, but his legs wouldn't move. He looked down to see Yuya had already made it to the first floor; although his worry of landing on top of him was the least of his problem, he couldn't quite figure out how to wrap his legs around without losing his balance or fumbling.

"Come on, Yuto!" Yuya encouraged. "Take a step forward and jump!"

Yuto took a deep breath, then he wrapped his legs around the pole and closed his eyes. He felt a slight gust coming from below him, causing him to open one of his eyes. He took a look at his surroundings to see that he was in the living room. Stunned by what had just happened, both eyes opened wide, realizing he has successfully slid down a pole.

"Alright, you did it!" Yuya happily said, patting his cousin on the back.

Yuto couldn't help but chuckle at Yuya's enthusiasm. "Thank you," he said.

"Aw, you're welcome," Yuya said. "Now let's get some breakfast."

The two put on their usual sneakers and headed to the kitchen where they saw Sora had gotten a head start on breakfast; fortunately, Yoko was at the stove cooking up some more of her homemade pancakes.

"There you two are!" Sora said, drizzling some chocolate syrup on his plate of pancakes. "I thought I was gonna have to eat all these pancake all by myself."

Yuya noticed the kitchen was lacking a certain someone. "Where's dad?" he asked.

"He went to Heartland Duel School," Yoko answered. "They were some technical problems with the Action Duel lab, so they needed him to do some repairs."

"That's no surprise," Yuto said. "He did found the school."

"By the way, Yuto, Kameron Obsidian called me," Yoko added. "He wants to know when you'll be ready to move in."

Move in? Why? Why does Kameron want him to move in with the Obsidians? Was this about the job offer that he was accepted into? But then Yuto remembered that Shay and Lulu wanted him to move in with them during the LID dance. However, that was currently going to be a bit of a problem...

"Yuto?" Yuya asked, noticing his tensed expression. "You feeling alright?"

"I'm not sure," Yuto admitted. "Before the separation, I was looking forward to living with the Obsidians as I worked at their company." He glanced down at his new outfit. "But after spending time with this family, I'm not sure if that kind of environment is right for me."

"Come on, cuz," Yuya said. "You're already close with Shay and Lulu. You'll fit in just nicely."

"That's what you think," Yuto said. "Before the Invasion, it was hard to believe that Shay and Lulu come from a wealthy family. They're very down-to-earth and don't flaunt their wealth a lot. But what if that's how they act among non-wealthy people like myself?"

He has kept those thoughts hidden for quite some time now. Before Shay and Lulu transferred to Heartland Duel School, they attended an expensive private school called Heart Prep. What if the Obsidians boast about their wealth among the elite citizens and only act reasonable towards the middle class because they pity them about how they're not as rich as them?

Sora let out a laugh. "It's not funny!" Yuto exclaimed, his fists clenched tightly.

"No, but your overreaction is," Sora said once he calmed down. "There's gotta be a reason why Lulu fell in love with you."

"But I fell in love with her first," Yuto pointed out. "When I found out she and Shay are wealthy, I secretly doubted their motives. I don't call her a princess just because of her radiant beauty. It’s also because of her status. If we were in the medieval era, she would have been an actual princess."

"No wonder you snapped when we found out about the Fusion Parasites," Yuya said. "You kinda take this whole knight thing seriously."

Yuya was right; his cousin does take being knightly very seriously. Yuto was absolutely livid when he learned the Doktor implanted Fusion Parasites in Celina and especially Lulu and he wouldn't forgive Duel Academy for taking away his girlfriend's sweet smile and forced her into fusing with her counterparts against her free will. He was molded into who he was because he joined the dueling club and Shay instructed him to envision himself to be as brave, noble, and chivalrous as the Phantom Knights. Because of the Obsidians' high class lifestyle, he always felt like he was Lulu's knight in shining armor who will do anything to rescue and protect her.

"I'm not a big history fan, but don't knights ultimately marry princesses?" Yuya asked.

"Not quite," Yuto answered. "Only men who were originally born into nobility could marry royalty. Take Mary Tudor for example. She initially planned to marry a duke, but the marriage was done in secret and it wasn't until her first husband died of old age."

"Oh, Yuto..." Yoko said, having finished cooking this morning's batch of pancakes. "You don't think you deserve to marry Lulu?"

"Never," Yuto admitted as he and Yuya sat at the kitchen table.

Yuya helped himself to some pancakes. "You said you officially hooked up with her when you asked her to the Heartland Duel School dance," he recalled with his mouth full of pancake. He swallowed his mouthful. "And why else would her parents set up an arranged marriage for you two?"

"I honestly don't know," Yuto replied, putting a few pancakes on his plate. "But for all I know, I'm only a poor orphan to the Obsidians. They probably took pity on me when they found out my mom died during the Invasion." He took a bite of his pancakes.

For the next couple minutes, Yuya pondered about something. Something medieval. He may not be into history, but he has been finding the parallels on how Yuto was a knight and Lulu was a princess. Does that make Shay, Kameron, and Astra the prince, king, and queen respectively? Definitely. Just then, an idea popped into his head on how to cheer Yuto up again; he remembered hearing stuff about these Renaissance Faires that occur every year in America, but he wasn't sure if Japan has their own Faires too. They must have something similar because medieval history still plays an important role in today's society.

"Hey mom, do you know if there's a Renaissance Faire going on today?" Yuya asked.

"I think so," Yoko answered. "But it's in another town."

"That's all I needed to hear," Yuya said. "Yuto Osaku, we're having a family fun day at the Renaissance Faire!"

Yuto nearly choked on his mouthful of pancake. "What?" he asked once he swallowed.

"You heard me," Yuya said. "If you're gonna keep comparing yourself to a knight and Lulu to a princess, you might as well get a taste of what that bond is really like."

Once they were all done with their pancakes, they all headed out to the car so that Yoko can drive her sons and nephew to the Faire. She may not duel as much as she used to, but she always kept her Duel Disk around for other usages, one of them being using it as a GPS. She opened up the Maps app and typed down the location of where it was taking place in order to get directions.

The event was occurring in Hiroo, a town located in the second largest island in Japan called Hokkaido. The Tsugaru separates it from Honshu, Japan's largest and most populous island, but they are connected by a railway called the Seikan Tunnel, the second deepest and second longest railway tunnel. Her plan was to park the car at the Aomori Station—named after the capital of Honshu's Aomori region���and take a train that runs through the Seikan Tunnel and stops at Hakodate Station, then take another train from there to Hiroo to check out the Faire.

The name of this Faire the family was going to see was part of the West Kingdom, the founding kingdom of the Society of Creative Anachronism (SCA) that was established in 1966 in Berkeley, California. The people who founded it were big fans of history and science fiction and held outdoor parties with food, drinks, revelries, and tournaments. In 1969, when words of the SCA were spreading after multiple events were planned one after another, the East Kingdom was founded; soon enough, the non-profit education society developed a total of nineteen kingdoms with over 30,000 members. The West Kingdom had areas formed in the United States and Asia, which can be found in northern and southern regions of California, northern Nevada, Alaska, Guam, South Korea, Thailand, and Japan.

When the family arrived at the Faire's entrance, they were greeted by one of the employees. "Greetings!" he said. "Welcome the West Kingdom! But before you can continue, you must state your statuses so we may provide the appropriate attire for you."

Yuto was deeply confused. "Uh..."

"We're from the royal Sakaki family in Paradise City," Yoko explained, giving the employee an ID card. "The boy with magical corrective lenses is our knight."

The employee checked the ID card. "My apologies, Lady Sakaki," he said, giving the ID card back to Yoko. "It has been a long time since you came. Please come with me for your attire."

"You were here before?" Yuto asked.

"Only once," Yoko answered. "It was a anniversary celebration."

"I think I remember coming here several years ago," Yuya recalled. "But the memories are a bit blurry."

He was only six, maybe even younger, when he went to the West Kingdom's Faire for his parents anniversary, so it was going to be his and Yoko's second time attending this event. Sora and Yuto have never been to something like this before for different reasons. Their first order of business was to change into the proper clothes for a medieval atmosphere.

"My goodness, young lord," the employee told Yuya. "You have grown so much since we last saw you, so you are due for new measurements."

"I thought so," Yuya said.

The employee then looked at Yuto. "So this boy with the eggplant-like hair is your knight?" he asked.

"I am a knight," Yuto explained. "But my actual allegiance is to another royal family."

"And what about this young blue-haired boy?" the employee asked.

"I was adopted into the Sakaki family," Sora answered.

"I see," the employee said. "Then it seems you two might need to get your measurements recorded as well."

The three boys followed the employee to a separate room where he measured each of them. He noticed how similar Yuya and Yuto looked and caught on to how slightly buffer the young Osaku's physique was. As for Sora, he was the shortest out of them all, so he was going to need some smaller clothes that will fit him.

Yuya noticed the employee's confused expression. "Is somethin' wrong?" he asked.

"Aside from the different hairstyles, your looks and voices are eerily similar," the employee remarked. "Are you two related?"

"We're cousins," Yuto answered. "Our moms are sisters."

"Of course!" the employee said. "That would explain the similarities."

After the measurement were recorded, he handed the pad of medievalesque paper to another employee to give the boys the best fitting prince and knight outfits for them to try on. He then instructed Yuya, Yuto, and Sora to head on over to the nearby fitting room to try on their respective clothes.

"Young lord, let us know when you are properly dressed," the employee told Yuya.

"How come?" Yuya asked.

"It's your hair, sire," the employee explained, moving Yuya's bangs away from his forehead. "It is not suited for a young prince such as yourself."

"Uh... Okay..." Yuya said, baffled by the sudden request. "I'll think about it..." Those fears were unexpectedly returning to him. The fears of getting a haircut. He didn't mind his hair getting sprayed with water to make it easier to comb through and preferred to have it air-dried than blow-dried, but there was one thing that he couldn't stand about haircuts: scissors. He had that issue for as long as he could remember, hence why his hair always looks so fluffy and longish. He doesn't want his hair getting cut too close to his scalp.

Pretty soon, the family got dressed into their proper outfits for today's Faire. Yoko's was that of a regal queen whereas her sons wore matching attires that distinguished them as princes with obvious differences. Yuya's had warm and bright colors consisting of a red top, green pants, a white cape with yellowish-gold linings, magenta shoes with dark gray decals, and had his sash on his right shoulder; on the other hand, Sora's was cooler and darker with a moderate blue top, gray pants, a black cape, brown shoes, and had his sash on his left shoulder. Yuto's dawned a knight's uniform with dark purple shoulder pads that held his black, knee-length cape in place and a small broach that depicted a bird to represent he was from another kingdom.

Yuya let out a whistle. "You look good, Yuto," he said, his tomato hair already gelled down thanks to one of the employees. "Like a true knight."

However, instead of smirking like he normally did whenever someone complimented his looks, Yuto got on one knee and knelt before Yuya. "Your highness," he said.

Yuya was taken back by what his cousin had done. "You can get back up," he said.

"My apologies," Yuto said, still kneeling. "But knights live to serve royalty, not get treated as equals."

"No, Yuya is right," Yoko said. "You are still family."

"Yeah," Sora agreed. "Now get back up and snap out of this stupid funk."

It wasn't much of a funk; it was more of a force of habit, but can you blame him? For Yuto Osaku, being knightly is one of the biggest—if not, the biggest—changes of his life. He was no longer the shy, timid loner outcasted by a cheerful and colorful city and it surprised everyone, but they have gotten used to his sudden change and he became a part of their society. It paid off immensely because he has his own circle of friends, a long-lost extension of his family, and is currently dating his first friend's younger sister. Of course, he was hoping his personality has truly captivated the Obsidian family.

Yuto stood back on his feet. "My apologies," he said, bowing slightly. "But I'm only getting into character."

"Alright," Yoko said. "It was Yuya's idea for us to come here."

"Yeah!" Yuya happily said. "Now let's make this the best family fun day ever!"

Once the family stepped outside, trumpets blared. "Presenting the royal Sakaki family and their accompanied knight!" an employee announced.

The people attending the Faire turned their attentions towards the newly-arrived guests, who were walking down a long carpet from the castle to the entrance where all the festivities were. Everyone gave a massive round of applause for the family as a welcoming greeting to their annual event. But while Yuya was smiling and waving, Yuto covered his face with his hand.

"No one said there would be this much attention," Yuto muttered.

"It's alright," Yoko told her nephew. "They do this to the guests who want to dress up like royalty. We're not a special exception."

Yuto isn't much of a big fan of attention unlike Yuya who was basking in the applause from the people applauding for them. Eventually, the family entered the Faire where a vast variety of festivities were provided: sampling medieval food, drinks, and entertainment, SCA members teaching visiting college students about a pre-seventeenth century world subject called "Current Middle Age", guilds and other groups holding meetings including dancing, cooking, making armor, needlework, and music, and the ever popular tournaments. Their tournaments were rather unique because the members host Magical Duels instead of jousting due to the popularity of Duel Monsters.

"Come one, come all!" a Faire employee announced. "Don't miss this noon's tournament of Magic and Wizards!"

"Heh... I haven't heard that name in years."

Yuya and Yuto's eyes widened in surprise. "Was that you?" Yuya asked.

"No, it wasn't," Yuto answered. "But that means...?"

"That's right, my reincarnations. The great Zarc Nightstone is still here."

Yuya and Yuto immediately grew concerned at the sound of hearing Zarc's voice. How is that even possible? Was he not completely gone? Are there any lingering traces of his darkness lurking within the Yu-Salad? If so, then will it grow stronger like the last time and manipulate them into fusing back into one again?

"What are you still doing in our heads?" Yuto angrily asked.

"Geez, calm down. When Leo used that machine to separate Ray and I back into you eight, we technically didn't cross over. Our spirits still reside in each of you. I have no desire to reemerge in all my wonderful glory. Just think of me as your guardian angel."

"Then why did you show up now?" Yuya asked.

"Because I remember when Duel Monsters was originally called Magic and Wizards, so I figured I might pop in and give you two newbies some old-school pointers."

"Wait, that's what Magic and Wizards is?" Yuya asked. "An older version of Duel Monsters?"

"Indeed, my tomato-haired self. Back before Seto Kaiba changed things up to make things fairer for everyone who enjoys the card game."

"So what are these rules like?" Yuya asked.

"The whole premise of Magic and Wizards is that you and your opponent are wizards with the cards allowing you to cast spells or summon monsters. The gameplay style is the same as what you youngsters are familiar with, yet there are a few exceptions."

"What exceptions?" Yuto asked.

"The levels mean absolutely nothing. You can summon any monster at any moment, with some people even summoning Fusion monsters without needing to fuse the required monsters. Oh, and you can pretty much make up special card rules as you go. In other words, whoever manages to wipe out their opponent's 2000 starting life points with the strongest imagination is the winner."

"But that would mean Dark Rebellion would be completely powerless," Yuto realized, knowing his trusted dragon wouldn't have any Overlay Units.

"Yeah, about that... Synchro and XYZ monsters weren't created until after Kaiba changed the rules, but I'm sure Dark Rebellion will adapt to those rules. He's a pretty chill guy."

Yuto heard Dark Rebellion growl from the Extra Deck, reassuring his owner about how he didn't mind the rules to Magic and Wizards. Yuya and Zarc also heard the growls since the three do share the same ability to communicate with Duel Monsters. It didn't change the fact on how the two cousins were developing some worries regarding said rules.

"But what about Odd-Eyes?" Yuya asked, taking out his trusted dragon from his deck. "Do I have to revert him back into a regular monster?"

"Nah, you'll be fine. Odd-Eyes is a good boy. He loves a good performance. These things are right up his ally."

"You sure?" Yuya asked.

"Just be glad the other two aren't here. Starving Venom can't stand friendly performances. They kinda restricts his full power. But the worst of it is Clear Wing. She simply wouldn't like being summoned the old-fashioned way. For her, it's go synch or go home."

Yuya and Yuto's eyes widened in shocked realization at what Zarc just said. Did he just refer to Clear Wing as a "she"? That could mean...

"Clear Wing Synchro Dragon is actually a girl?!" Yuya asked.

"Of course she's a girl. I remember hearing her snarl at Yugo whenever he called her a guy-"

"Come on, you two!" Sora called out. "You gotta try this barbecued pig on a stick!"

"And that would be my cue to leave. Just remember what I said about the Magic and Wizards rules."

"We'll try," Yuto said as Yuya put Odd-Eyes back in his deck.

The two caught up with Sora, who was sampling the barbecued pig on a stick that he got from a nearby stand. Although it smelled delicious, they weren't sure if what he was eating was the entire pig or just a portion because people often roast the whole animal on a stick and it was honestly a bit creepy seeing its lifeless face.

"Uh... Sora?" Yuya asked. "What exactly are you eating?"

"Oh, relax," Sora said, showing his treat to the cousins. "It's just a slice of ham coated in barbecue sauce on a stick."

"Then what was with your choice of wording?" Yuto asked.

"Just wanted to mess with ya," Sora answered with a cheeky grin.

Ever since the Interdimensional War was over, Sora has grown into quite a troll not long after Yoko adopted him. Yuya sometimes forgets about it and easily falls for his younger brother's tricks.

"But seriously, try it out," Sora said, gesturing to the samples on display. "It's delicious."

Yuya and Yuto looked over at the stand that was displayed and walked towards it. They saw a couple employees slicing up some ham, cooking them up, poking sticks through them, drizzling barbecue sauce on them, and placing them on the display box.

"Good day, young prince," an employee told Yuya. "Care to try the West Kingdom's famous barbecued ham? You'll never find ham tastier than this!"

Yuya picked up one of the samples. "I never saw ham served on a stick like this before," he remarked.

"Well of course, sire," the employee said. "Our ham is far more worthy than being served in a simple sandwich."

Yuya didn't mind having ham sandwiches every now and then, but he was right about never seeing it served on a stick, let alone eating it, especially when it's covered in barbecue sauce. Curious about the taste, he took a bite out of the ham. His eyes widened in amazement.

"This is absolutely delicious!" Yuya exclaimed. "Yuto, you've gotta try this!"

He handed his cousin another ham on a stick for him to sample. Yuto usually had ham for dinner during Easter or whenever he felt like he wasn't sure what to have for lunch. The barbecue sauce does smell good though; it seemed to help boost the smell of the deli, but did it also make the flavor more edible? He bit into the ham, and much like his cousin, the Phantom Knights user was amazed with the taste.

"I never tasted ham like this before," Yuto remarked.

The two cousins delightfully ate the rest of their ham samples as they embraced the combined flavor of a thin, rolled-up sheet of meat moistened in a thick layer of flavorful and savory sauce.

"So what else does this Faire provide?" Yuto asked.

"You never attended any Faires back in the XYZ Dimension?" Yuya asked.

"Not like this," Yuto answered. "Heartland always had numerous festivals each year, but none of them had a special period theme."

"Then how about we watch the chess game?" Yoko suggested.

That baffled Yuto. "What's exciting about watching a chess game?" he asked, imagining a crowd of people watching two old men play chess.

"I think I saw one on TooYube," Sora recalled. "It's when a group of people get together to act out a mock battle as characters from Robin Hood lore."

"Yeah," Yuya agreed. "The stage is set like a giant chess board. It's pretty cool to watch."

Yuto asked himself some curious questions about this Robin Hood-themed chess match. Are the competitors acting out as the characters and the chess pieces are their armies? Is it some kind of reenactment of a scene from the legend? Whatever was going on, it admittedly piqued his interests about this game.

"My only piece of Robin Hood knowledge comes from a single movie," Yuto admitted.

"Which one?" Sora asked. "'Cause the Disney version is a bit inaccurate. None of the characters are actually animals."

"Men in Tights," Yuto answered.

Yuya and Sora chuckled out of amusement after hearing their cousin's response. Out of all the Robin Hood movies, he saw Men in Tights? That Mel Brooks film produced in America back in 1993?

"What's so funny?" Yuto asked.

"That's...not exactly true to Robin Hood lore," Yuya explained. "It's more like a parody."

"Wait, so women in the lore didn't wear iron underwear?" Yuto asked, sounding genuinely confused.

"Nope," Sora answered.

After a long discussion about the true story of Robin Hood and the many differences in its modern adaptations, the four went to see the chess match. Yuya and Sora were right about how this was no ordinary game of chess. There was an outdoor stage set up that stood in front of a large, grassy chess board where the people playing as the King and Queen give orders to their army, who are their "chess pieces". Their opponents also have "chess pieces" of their own and commands them to retaliate against the King and Queen's army.

"Thank you for coming to today's chess game!" the King announced. "And it seems we have special visitors among the crowd."

"Indeed," the Queen agreed. "Let us give a grand West Kingdom welcome to the royal Sakaki family and their accompanied knight!"

The audience applauded for the Sakaki-Osaku family once again since it's been less than a decade since Yoko and her son attended the Faire. As usual, Yuya smiled and waved at everyone while Yuto blushed slightly and tried to divert himself from the attention.

"Now then, shall we begin this year's wondrous chess game?" the Queen asked.

"Indeed, my wife," the King replied. He looked back at the crowd. "And don't forget about this afternoon's Magic and Wizards tournament, where the winning knight shall receive the greatest treasure in all the land!"

Yuya, Yuto, and Sora raised their eyebrows in astonishment and started to ponder on what the "greatest treasure" even is. "Oh man, I bet it's a lifetime supply of candy!" Sora gushed.

"It's not candy," Yuto said. "It's probably gold or-"

"My goodness, I almost forgot!" the King said, unknowingly interrupting Yuto's statement. "Come on out, my dearest daughter!"

Coming out from backstage was a young woman with long, silky, blonde hair and teal eyes. She was, without a doubt, the King and Queen's daughter, meaning she was a princess; her appearance made Yuto love-struck, mostly because she reminded him of Rapunzel, his favorite fairytale.

"...or the princess' hand in marriage," the eggplant-haired teen muttered.

"Snap out of it, cuz!" Yuya said. "You have a girlfriend, remember? I don't think she would like seeing you get all lovey-dovey towards other long-haired girls."

Yuto did end up snapping out of his love-struck gaze, but it had different results. He suddenly remembered he was arranged to get married with Lulu in the future and he was going to move in with the Obsidians as soon as possible so that he could be able to work at his job at the family company. Before he knew it, the dilemma and worries he was focused on earlier this morning soon crept back up to him. But despite those worries about not being worthy enough to have Lulu's hand in marriage, there was another issue he had ever since the Zarc thing was resolved.

"Yuya..." Yuto said. "How do you really feel about Zuzu?"

"I already told you," Yuya replied. "She's a good friend, but I don't see her as a girlfriend."

"So I'm the only one who feels desire and ache whenever I think about my girlfriend?" Yuto asked.

Yuya was baffled by Yuto's choice of words. "What are you talking about?" Yuya asked.

"Desire to hold her close all the time..." Yuto clarified. "And ache when she's not in your sight."

"Uh... I don't think so?" Yuya replied, not sure how to properly respond.

"It's why I had to help Shay find Lulu," Yuto said. "When I'm by her side or gently touching her, I feel calmer. I always assumed it was because of how much I love her, but after what happened..." He looked at his hand. "I'm not even sure anymore." He clenched his hand into a fist. "Could it be because she's the only one who can tame the beast within myself? Or is there something more to that?"

Yuto could feel something that was…indescribable. With everything that had happened, especially at Duel Academy, this burning darkness grew within him and had gotten stronger overtime. Lulu's agonizing scream made him give into it because he wanted to protect her, but there was more to it than meets the eye; his strength to resist was weakening, making him more vulnerable for corruption until…it consumed him. With Yuya and Yuri dueling each other, resistance was futile. The Four Dimension Dragons were brought out, Smile World was sent to the Graveyard via the face-down Break Away, ARC-V was activated, and all four dimensions were starting to fuse back into one. He didn't want to merge back with his counterparts, but the growing darkness became too much for most of them to withstand, and before anyone knew it, Zarc was back and ready to continue his onslaught that was interrupted by Ray.

Slight trembles travelled all over Yuto's body because he felt it was virtually impossible to try to tackle Zarc's manipulative control on his reincarnations and rescue the Bracelet Girls from being transferred into ARC-V, especially Lulu. She was one of the few people that meant everything to him and they demonstrate it through genuine feelings and love for each other. However, after everything they went through, he wasn't sure why he needed to be with her in the first place. Having her sweet smile forcibly taken away or seeing her in pain made him furious and awakened this hidden beast that made itself known to the world. Why does he need to be with her? Was it to remind him on how danger won't do any harm to them from now on? Was it out of protection? Reassurance? Compassion? Concern? Love? Was it to make sure something like that won't happen again?

Was it to prevent him from becoming part of…a single monster again?

He didn't want history to repeat itself, but after what they endured, it became too confusing for him to comprehend or handle. Trembles increased to subtle yet noticeable shakes as he had difficulty trying to not focus on the personal conflict he mentioned this morning.

"Yuto..." Yuya said out of concern. "Is that why you feel unsure about your new life?"

"Part of me feels unworthy to be the commoner-born husband of a beautiful princess," Yuto continued, small tears dripping from his eyes. "Yet this other part, a beastly side, wants to be comforted and tamed by her and her alone." He looked up at his cousin. "But which side is more dominant? The knight or the beast?"

But before Yuya could reply, trumpets blared, indicating the chess game was about to begin and the 'pieces' were finally set up. "Sorry for the delay, everyone," the King said. "Let the chess game commence!"

Throughout the next half hour, the King and Queen commanded their army members to attack their opponents while following the rules of chess: the pawns generally move one with a couple exceptions, the rooks move forward, backward, left or right from one to seven as long as the other "pieces" don't obstruct their paths, the knights move two spaces in one direction and one space in a perpendicular direction and can skip over other pieces, inhabit spaces not taken by their team's "pieces", and can move up to eight of the board's pieces, the bishops move diagonally as long as its path isn't obstructed by another piece—in which it can't move past said piece—and can take any other piece within its movements, the queens can move in all eight directions and can capture the opponent's "pieces", but it can't "jump" over them, and the kings help declare the winner by moving one space in any direction. What makes this entertaining is that each member of both armies engage in mock combat to represent one chess piece capturing the other and they all continue to do so until one team declares "checkmate", making this one really unique chess match to watch.

During the show, Yuto suddenly looked angry. "Are you alright?" Yuya asked.

"Look at the King and Queen's army," Yuto explained. "Do you recognize one of the knights?"

Yuya turned his head back to face the King and Queen's army to see which knight Yuto was referring to. Sure enough, he recognized him alright from the short green hair, dark eyes, and green cape; it was Ashley from the Knights of the Duel Disk who was carded by the Obelisk Force alongside Bram and Carl.

"How dare he show his face and pass off as a knight," Yuto said, glaring at said knight. Suddenly, he stood up. "He has no right to be here!"

That outburst caused the show to get interrupted. "I beg your pardon?" the King asked.

"You heard me," Yuto said, stepping onto the field. "The man dressed in green is a false knight!"

Ashley noticed Yuto and approached him. "And who are you to make such an accusation?" he demanded.

"I am Sir Yuto Osaku of the Obsidians," Yuto answered, showing no fear. "I serve the family's beloved princess, but today I chose to accompany the Sakakis to protect them from harm."

Yuto knew Ashley didn't deserve such a cruel fate like getting carded as ordered by Leo, but he was certain as hell that Ashley, Bram, Carl, and Chalac were part of a duel school that makes its students come off as such dishonorable knights. And as a true knight, Yuto couldn't tolerate that kind of false nobility.

"You imposter knights make me sick," Yuto continued. "A true knight is noble and kind at heart, but all you do mercilessly beat up innocent people. How dare you tarnish the knight's image!"

"You challenge me, young lad?" Ashley asked, aiming his sword at Yuto.

"If it will get through to you, yes," Yuto said.

"Good," Ashley said. "I haven't had a good duel in a whi-"

"That's quite enough!" the Queen interrupted. "If you wish to settle a dispute, save it for the Magic and Wizards tournament."

Yuto sighed, sounding like a mix of obedience with a tiny hint of reluctance. He really wanted to show Ashley the true meaning of being a knight, and if he has to do it during the Magic and Wizards tournament, then so be it. He angrily glared at his soon-to-be opponent before sitting back down to let the chess match continue.

"Uh... Yuto?" Yuya asked. "The Magic and Wizards tournament only allows professional actors to participate."

"So what?" Yuto asked. "I'm sure they will make an exception for me."

"Well good luck with that. Combining Magic and Wizards with the current Solid Vision technology can kinda make things pretty aggressive, even moreso than my four dragons."

Yuya and Yuto heard Zarc's voice again and wondered what he meant by that. Implementing mass into Solid Vision is what caused the end of the world for those that lived in the Original Dimension prior to the split. How on earth could using Solid Vision in Magic and Wizards be worse than that?

"What are you talking about?" Yuya asked.

"There was a reason why Kaiba changed the rules. If someone were to summon something like...let's say...a Blue-Eyes White Dragon, that could cause some mass uproar and the duels would have been over pretty darn quickly if the opponent didn't have the right cards. Can you imagine what that would have been like?"

"I don't know what a Blue-Eyes White Dragon is, but I'll take your word for it," Yuto replied.

He and Yuya began to wonder what would happen if Kaiba hadn't changed the rules and Duel Monsters was still Magic and Wizards. Zarc did say that that people can summon monsters without performing a tribute or even a Fusion Summon and can make up card rules as the duel progressed. ATK and DEF were important to the game and the person has to use their monster's strong stats and their imagination to eliminate their opponent's 2000 LP. Would that mean people would get too creative with making up rules? Maybe; after all, with so many effects that people can come up with out of the blue, it would get somewhat convoluted just from trying to keep track of them by itself.

Yuya muffled a laugh as Yuto smirked, thinking about the endless made-up card rules. However, Sora was fed up with all the talking. "We can chat later," he said. "I'm trying to watch the chess game."

"Sorry Sora," Yuto said.

Later on in the afternoon, after the chess match had ended, Yoko, Yuya, Yuto, and Sora headed on over to a medieval arena where the Magic and Wizards tournament was going to be held. Since it required only professional actors to participate, there needs to be some way for them to make an exception so that the Phantom Knights user can show Ashley what it means to be a true knight, but how are they going to do that?

But as Yuto was searching through his deck, he look surprised. "Are you alright?" Yoko asked.

Yuto took out a card. "What is this Tuner doing in my deck?" he asked. "This is supposed to be a pure XYZ deck."

"Yeah, about that... My dragons may or may not have modified each of your decks while you were all fused together. But look on the bright side: now Yuya has access to updated versions of all my Magician cards."

Yuya took his deck out and skimmed through it to see a huge number of Magicians he never had before prior to Zarc's return. This would really come in handy with his strategies; maybe when he's at You Show Duel School, he can show them to Zuzu, Allie, Frederick, and Tate to see what kind of tactics he can come up with that he can use in the future. As for Yuto, he simply stared at Lady of the Lake. He was a pure XYZ user, so including this Tuner may seem meaningless because there aren't any Phantom Knight Synchro monsters…but were there Synchro monsters that are similar and work well with his archetype?

"So your dragon put a useless card in my deck?" Yuto asked, getting irked at Zarc.

"Not exactly. I had a feeling you would get mad at the change Clear Wing made, so I snuck a new Synchro card into your Extra Deck. I hope it fits with your whole knight theme."

Yuto took out his Extra Deck to see where this card was and found it next to Dark Rebellion. He grabbed it to analyze its stats; it was Gaia Knight, the Force of Earth, a Level 6 EARTH Warrior-Type Synchro monster with 2600 ATK and 800 DEF. It doesn't have any effects, but like most Synchros, it requires one Tuner and one or more non-Tuners in order to Synchro Summon it.

"But why this Tuner?" Yuto asked. "She doesn't seem to fit with any of my Phantom Knights."

"Well a Duelist's deck reflects his or her personality, kinda like my Frightfur Fusions," Sora said. "And that Tuner could reflect how you see your girlfriend."

He was right; the Phantom Knights reflect on how chivalrous, noble, and gentlemanly Yuto had become over the years. With Lady of the Lake still in his hand, he analyzed her stats to see how it reminds him of Lulu. She was a Level 1 LIGHT Aqua-Type Tuner monster with 200 ATK and 1800 DEF. She can't be used as Synchro Material unless the Synchro monster is a Warrior-Type; in this case, she gets banished. If she was normal summoned, she can target a Noble Knight monster in the Graveyard and special summoned it to the field. If she was in the Graveyard, she can target a Level 5 Noble Knight monster, decrease its Level by 1, and special summon it to the field.

Seeing all of the card's information and image, there was something about her made drew parallels to Lulu. They both possess natural beauty from their long, luscious hair to the clothes they wear. Their personalities also weren't so different; they may be sweethearts, but they are quite strong. Lady of the Lake's Level, ATK, and effects reflect on Lulu's usage of the Lyriluscs where they rely on powerful effects and how Duelists shouldn't judge the low Levels and low ATK. Yuto blushed due to the realization, making Zarc chuckle.

"That's Clear Wing for you. She's fierce and pretty powerful, but she's a huge romantic at heart."

"So do you think you can figure out a new strategy?" Yuya asked Yuto.

"I think so," Yuto answered. "But for now, we need to figure out how I can participate in the Magic and Wizards tournament."

"Maybe we could talk to some of the employees," Yoko suggested. "Someone here could register you as an official participant."

The Sakaki-Osaku family searched for any employees that were in charge of managing the tournament to see if Yuto is capable of qualifying. Luckily for them, they found a women dressed in black and silver.

"I see," the employee said. "So you wish to join this year's Magic and Wizards tournament."

"Of course," Yuto replied.

"Normally we don't let guests take part in these tournaments due to the possibility of serious injury," the employee said. "But if the Queen gave you permission, I suppose we can make an exception. We did only manage to find three participants this year, so including you should even things out."

"Thank you," Yuto said with a slight bow. The Queen did mention about how him and Ashley can save their dispute for the tournament, so he was glad to know exceptions can be made.

"So may I please see your magic caster?" the employee asked. "I must make it tournament-legal."

"Huh?" Yuya asked.

"I think she means she wants to program the Magic and Wizards guidelines into my Duel Disk," Yuto explained, taking out his Duel Disk and giving it to the employee.

Since it was programmed to follow the rules to Duel Monsters, it would lead to a high probability of him receiving alerts of him "breaking the rules". For example, using Fusion, Synchro, and XYZ monsters like regular normal/effect monsters would cause the ERROR notification to appear on his Duel Disk, much like how Yuya couldn't Pendulum Summon during his duel against Zuzu.

"Thank you for your corporation," the employee said, returning the Duel Disk to Yuto. "I will register your wizard ID code into my magic mirror. The tournament will begin in a few hours, so I would suggest you to prepare your wizardry skills."

Yuto nodded as he put his Duel Disk away; with only a few hours left, he needed to figure out strategies he can use that revolve around the Magic and Wizards rules. To pass the time, he accompanied his aunt and cousins and saw various performances.

During a show featuring two jugglers who use fire, Yuto thought about what Zarc said about Magic and Wizards. He could normal summon any monster he wants and make up special abilities during duels. But what could he say? And what about his dueling code of honor? He still wants to show mercy to his opponent and finish them off as only a last resort, but how could he do that if there's still corrupting darkness inside him?

"Uh... Yuto?" Yuya asked. "Earth to Yuto?"

"Hmm?" Yuto mused, snapping out of his thoughts.

"You alright?" Yuya asked.

"Sort of," Yuto admitted. "I feel a bit unsure about these new rules."

"You got this, Yuto. You have all of my kindness and compassion. I know you'll show that jerk of a knight the true code of nobility."

"Zarc's right," Yuya agreed. "You can defeat this Knight of the Duel Disk."

"But what if I lose control?" Yuto asked. He clutched his chest near his heart, much like when Odd-Eyes and Dark Rebellion spoke to each other for the first time. "I can't stand that fake knight, but I can't let my rage control me."

Even though Zarc redeemed himself by bringing back the Original Dimension and splitting into his reincarnations again, there could be potential side effects to the amount of trauma Yuto had to endure, with rage being one of them. He was worried it could occur in random bursts like when he and the dueling club discussed with Declan about the effects of someone being merged with their counterparts or a gradually increasing darkness similar to the Awakened state.

"Then don't use Dark Rebellion in the tournament," Yuya suggested. "Besides, don't you have any other Rank 4 cards you could use?"

"Just one," Yuto answered. "Cairngorgon, Antiluminescent Knight, but I don't use it a lot."

"Perfect!" Yuya said. "As long as you use that card, you won't have to worry about losing control."

With their dragons' strong connections with each other still intact, Yuya figured this would cause a repeat of their Awakened states whenever he and his counterparts brought them out. The lingering spirit of Zarc overheard this decision and he couldn't help but feel guilty about what his Pendulum reincarnation settled on. He even heard remorseful sounds coming from Odd-Eyes and Dark Rebellion. He knew Dark Rebellion would love to take part in a Magic and Wizards duel, but it didn't seem like that would happen after all.

A few hours later, the annual Magic and Wizards tournament was about to begin as the Faire attendees walked inside the arena to get themselves concessions and claim their seats. Due to Yuto taking part in the tournament, the Sakakis (and Sora) were given special seating arrangements.

"I hope Yuto knows what he's doing," Sora said.

"He's going to be alright," Yuya replied. "Yuto's not only noble. He's calm. He would never panic during things like this."

Ironically, Yuto was pacing around backstage, panicking at what was about to happen shortly. He would normally remain calm in most situations, but in this one, he was taking part in a tournament that involves Duel Monsters' predecessor—a card game that he has never played before, mind you—and plans to face off against a formerly carded disgrace of a knight.

"I don't think listening to Yuya's advice is a good idea. I heard Dark Rebel-"

"Will you shut up?!" Yuto snapped, his eyes briefly glowing periwinkle. "How am I supposed to keep up with a card game where everyone makes up rules?!"

"Look, I told you that the person with the biggest imagination wins. Just say your monsters are completely invincible to your opponent's cards and you should be fine."

Invincible? Wasn't that a little overpowered? Well, "little" is an understatement because the Phantom Knights would become as strong as—if not, stronger than—a rumored "forbidden" monster, one that supposedly required five cards needed for an automatic win. Yuto wondered what else his Phantom Knights can be used for with his imagination. He then pictured each monster and took note on how a lot of them resembled an article of clothing, mainly armor. A realization popped into his head; with a selected few taking form of different body parts such as Break Sword and Cloven Helm, was it possible for them to become a single Phantom Knight? Was it possible for them to combine or even equip to each other? With Magic and Wizards, the Duelist's imagination was limitless, so it may seem Yuto may have an idea on how to beat Ashley and demonstrate to him on what it means to be a true knight.

"First up is Sir Kingsley of Heathen vs. Sir Yuto of Obsidian!"

"Wait, I'm not dueling the imposter first?" Yuto asked aloud.

"Looks like it. But don't worry. If you win this round, you can face off against him in the finals."

Yuto wasn't sure who this Kingsley person is, but he was certain he has to make it through the tournament and reach the finals. He knew Ashley was strong enough to make into the Junior Youth division's Battle Royale finales in the Arc League Championship, landing in the Top 16 position, so this would surely be one tough duel he was going to face. With that in mind, he decided to save his Phantom Knights equip tactic for when he does face off against the disgraceful, dishonorable jerk of a knight.

Upon stepping onto the arena, Yuto was greeted by the knight who was apparently Kingsley. "So you're Sir Yuto of Obsidian," he said. "I suppose the Obsidian family is whom you swore allegiance to."

"It is," Yuto replied. "Especially the family's princess."

"Well that princess must be lucky to have you," Kingsley said. "With that face, you could woo any girl of choice."

Did…that sound like a compliment? If it was, then at least Yuto might have found a worthy opponent to kick off the tournament. "Thank you," he said, adjusting his glasses as he smirked. "I do have such handsome features."

Once again, Yuto's habit of letting a single comment about how nice his appearance was feeding his ego was making itself known. The last time he did that was when he realized Yuya was right about how wearing glasses with a suit makes him look like a sharp businessman. Needless to say, Yuya ended up face-palming.

"Was Yuto always this egotistical?" Sora asked.

"Yes," Yuya explained. "I'm not sure why, but he likes being praised for his looks."

Sora let out a small laugh. "Kinda sounds like he knows he's the handsome one compared to you, Yugo, and Yuri."

But before Yuya could respond, the tournament was about to begin. "Are the knights ready?" the Queen asked.

Yuto and Kingsley got in position on opposite sides of the arena. "Yes, your majesty," Kingsley replied, bowing slightly as he activated his Duel Disk and prompting Yuto to do the same.

"Then let the West Kingdom's annual Magic and Wizards tournament commence!" the Queen announced.

The two knights drew their five starting cards, started out with 2000 LP, and shouted, "Let's duel!" to signal the beginning of the tournament. Yuto glanced at his hand. He was starting off with The Phantom Knights of Lost Vambrace, The Phantom Knights of Wrong Magnetring, Call of the Haunted, The Phantom Knights of Ancient Cloak, and Lady of the Lake. Since he was going first, he decided to go with his signature opening move, then try out his new Synchro technique.

"I set three cards face down and end my turn," Yuto announced, setting his three traps face down. "Your move."

Kingsley was rather puzzled on why Yuto would play three face downs on the first turn. Doesn't he know that leaves him vulnerable for a direct attack? What was he planning?

"Very well, young knight," Kingsley said. He drew a card to start his turn. "For my first turn, I shall bring forth Sacred Noble Knight of King Artorigus! And with the support of Gwenhwyfar, Queen of Noble Arm, she shall grant her strength to her beloved king!"

A flash of light appeared from the ground that looked similar to the Overlay Network yet was far different from it. King Artorigus and Gwenhwyfar both flew out from it and onto the field; they were respectively a Rank 5 LIGHT Warrior-Type XYZ monster with 2200 ATK and DEF and a Level 2 LIGHT Spellcaster-Type monster with 300 ATK and DEF. Normally, they would use their given effects, but that was not the case in Magic and Wizards; in turn, this gave Yuto a better understanding of the card game now that he was witnessing and playing it. It was something similar to an RPG game where you can summon creatures, cast spells, and initiate traps while also declaring attacks. Well, technically speaking, it's basically an RPG in the form of a card game.

"So you're treating Gwenhwyfar as a Spell card," Yuto observed.

"Precisely," Kingsley replied. "As you can see, she is chanting a spell on King Artorigus so her attack points are transferred to him. Isn't it quite a lovely sight?"

Yuto glanced at his new Tuner. "I have seen prettier maidens," he answered, thinking about Lulu. After thinking about the realization a few hours ago, he was admittedly glad that Zarc gave him this Tuner. Sure Gwenhwyfar looks cute, but Lady of the Lake was absolutely beautiful. The Phantom Knights user knew that even though his new Tuner was part of the Noble Knight archetype, he was going to make her shine bright among his Phantom Knights.

"Now King Artorigus, attack Yuto directly!" Kingsley commanded.

"I don't think so," Yuto said. "I activate the Trap card Phantom Knights of Wrong Magnetring to shield myself from your king's attack!"

Wrong Magnetring is a Normal Trap card that becomes a Level 2 DARK Warrior-Type monster with 0 ATK and DEF when activated; it is special summoned in attack position as the declared attack is negated, which is exactly what it did.

"I see," Kingsley said. "Then I suppose that will end my turn."

"Very well," Yuto said. "My turn." He drew a card, which was The Phantom Knights of Mist Claws. "And I'll start things off with The Phantom Knights of Ancient Cloak in defense position."

Kingsley was confused. "A monster with only 800 attack points?" he asked. "Is that the best you could do?"

"Not quite," Yuto said. He revealed the Tuner in his hand. "I call upon the Lady of the Lake! Arise from the loveliest of waters, fairest maiden!"

As the light illuminated in response to the card being played, water bubbled on the floor and gushed out and up into the air as the Lady of the Lake soared out from it and landed in her monster zone.

Kingsley was surprised. "The Lady of the Lake?!" he asked. "How did you obtain such a card?!"

"Just a little something from a friend," Yuto answered. "But I didn't call upon her because of her radiant beauty. Lady of the Lake, use your lovely song to revive Ancient Cloak back into its original glory!"

Lady of the Lake placed Noble Arm - Excaliburn into the ground to clap her hands together and sing her melody. The harmonic tune of her song caused a wave to materialize and head towards Ancient Cloak; at the same time, gusts of wind encircled around it and sucked the surrounding water, creating a waterspout that encased the monster in it to help transform back to its original appearance.

"Now return to the realm of the living, Gaia Knight, the Force of Earth!" Yuto exclaimed.

The waterspout grew bigger and stronger until it exploded, unleashing water and wind across the field that engulfed and "vaporized" Level 1 Lady of the Lake and Level 2 Wrong Magnetring; standing in Level 3 Ancient Cloak's place was the Level 6 Synchro monster: Gaia Knight, the Force of Earth.

"My god..." Kingsley said, alarmed. "You really are quite a powerful knight. He's stronger than my comrade!"

"There's more," Yuto continued. "When Gaia Knight is brought out onto the field, he can equip a sword from my deck. And I think I'll have him wield Phantom Knights' Sword to increase his strength by 800."

The Continuous Trap card was ejected from the deck and Yuto took it out to activate it. Phantom Knights' Sword appeared from the enlarged rendition of said card and dashed over to Gaia Knight's free hand, who grabbed it and raised his ATK from 2600 to 3400.

"Now Gaia Knight, attack King Artorigus!" Yuto declared. "Specter Strike Slash!"

The Synchro knight used his horse to gallop towards the XYZ king, firmly grasping onto Phantom Knights' Sword and slashing through him, destroying the monster and bringing Kingsley LP down to a shocking 900.

"Such power..." Kingsley remarked. "I have never seen a boy this young be at the same dueling level as a professional Duelist!"

"I have left you with enough life points to survive this turn," Yuto said, standing tall and showing no fear. "If you surrender now, I may show mercy."

"Not a chance," Kingsley replied. "I must see more of your power!"

"Very well," Yuto said. "I chain Gaia Knight's attack with Call of the Haunted, allowing me to retrieve The Phantom Knights of Ancient Cloak from my Graveyard. And by equipping The Phantom Knights of Mist Claws to Ancient Cloak, it can inflict an additional 400 points worth of damage."

"So it seems you have won this round," Kingsley said. "I applaud you for the performance."

"Thank you, fellow knight," Yuto replied with a satisfied smile. "Now go, Phantom Knights of Ancient Cloak! Ensure my victory with a direct attack!"

Ancient Cloak charged towards Kingsley and unleashed its signature attack, dwindling his remaining Life Points down to 0 and ensuring Yuto an easy victory.

"And there you have it!" the tournament hostess announced. "The winner of the first round is Sir Yuto of Obsidian! Young knight, please head backstage to prepare for the finals."

Yuto gave out his chivalrous comments to Kingsley about how he enjoyed their duel and how he wishes to see each other again for another match with someone as noble as him before heading backstage. During that time, he watched the next rounds of the tournament to see who will be advancing; as he expected, Ashley was there and he was doing surprisingly well…for an unkinghtly knight, that is.

"Well someone hasn't changed their dueling style."

"I know," Yuto agreed. "He's still using the same Assault Knight card he used on Yuya and Shay." He tightly clenched his fists. "But those tactics go against everything a true knight is."

"Then how about you teach that guy a lesson? Maybe with a certain purple-scaled dragon?"

"But using Dark Rebellion is too risky," Yuto disagreed. "I want to defeat him with true honor."

"But I keep telling you that won't work. A bully like him deserves to be punished-"

"I don't care!" Yuto interrupted. "Let me defeat him my way."

From the moment he first "saw" him during the Junior Youth Battle Royale finals, he could tell their was a huge difference between the two archetypes. The Phantom Knights may have the word "knight" in their archetype, but they weren't part of the Knight archetype. They visually represented flaming ghosts, armor, and weapons while named that relate to disrepair, disuse, emptiness, darkness, death, and mistake; however, through Graveyard manipulation, banishment, Spell/Trap card searches, and the support from their XYZ companions, their playing style reflect on what knights truly represent. Slash the Assault Knight was part of the massive Knight archetype, a group of monsters that share the same gallant, heroic, and courageous personality as Yuto and his Phantom Knights, but what makes Slash different from all of them lies within its name and effect. It assaults its opponents with direct attacks and reduces any receiving battle damage to 0; this shows how Ashley, Bram, Carl, and Chalac neglect this important conduct as the Knights of the Duel Disk.

"A true knight is never that reckless," Yuto said. "Shay and Yuya nearly got hurt because of that same recklessness. Those false knights aren't knights at all. They're nothing more than bullies."

"That's exactly what I said! You should punish him for being reckless!"

"And give in to the same violent tactics?" Yuto asked in response. "That would go against everything I believe in."

This act was the epitome of Yuto's personality for the past several years and this dilemma he was currently facing was basically challenging it. How can he punish Ashley for his recklessness while still cherishing his beliefs without facing the risk of Awakening again?

"And the winner is Sir Ashley of the Duel Disk!"

"Okay Yuto. If you feel that strongly about not wanting to use Dark Rebellion, I won't interfere."

"Thank you," Yuto said, using his Duel Disk to give his deck a quick shuffle.

"Now will Sir Yuto of Obsidian join Sir Ashley of the Duel Disk for the tournament finals?"

Yuto let out an exhale once his deck was done shuffling. He got up from where he was sitting and headed towards the doorway that leads to the backstage. Opening the door, he walked out and trailed himself back towards the arena, where he saw Ashley still standing where he was from his previous duel.

"You look rather familiar," Ashley remarked. "Have we met?"

"No," Yuto answered. "But you met my cousin."

"Cousins...?" Ashley said. Then he noticed the resemblance. "You're related to Yuya Sakaki."

"Correct," Yuto responded as he activated his Duel Disk, not bowing like he did in his previous duel. "But I saw what you did to him. I won't forgive you from hurting him!"

"Hurting him?" Ashley repeated. "I did no such thing. I was merely sparring with my fellow comrades. He only got in the way."

"Liar!" Yuto exclaimed. He winced as he clutched his chest, feeling a stabbing feeling in his heart. "You and your friends purposely 'sparred' next to him! You thought that by injuring him with your monsters' blades would leave him in no condition to continue the Battle Royale! I...ugh... I refuse to let you leave unpunished!"

Deep within the recesses of Yuto's mind, Zarc could see something was off about him. He hasn't seen him this mad in all of his life; could this be a random burst of rage or something worse? He wished he could help his XYZ reincarnation out and warn him about what may happen if this boiling rage becomes too strong for him to bear, but because he states how he wasn't going to interfere, he had no choice but to watch this train wreck unfold. He honestly wasn't sure how he should feel about this situation once it blows over, but he was clearly concerned about everything that was leading up to this unfortunate turn of events.

"Now then, are the knights ready?" the Queen asked.

"Of course, your majesty," Ashley replied, bowing as he activated his Duel Disk.

"S-Sure..." Yuto muttered, his Duel Disk already activated. Why was his vision getting worse even with his glasses on?

"Then let the tournament finale commence!" the Queen declared.

The two knights drew their five cards and shouted "Let's duel!" to signal the start of the finals, with each of them beginning with 2000 LP. Ashley declared that he will be making the first move.

"I shall start things off with Slash the Assault Knight!" Ashley announced. "And because he was summoned on the first turn, he's allowed to inflict effect damage to your life points equal to his strength!"

At the time of the Arc League Championship, Slash's ATK, DEF, Attribute, Type, and Level was unknown; however, as it raised its sword and slashed out a luminescent purple blast, it took out a huge chunk of Yuto's Life Points, leaving him with only 500 left. The direct attack was strong enough to knock his light gray glasses off, worsening his already-blurry vision.

"I will have to end my turn," Ashley informed Yuto. "But know this: it doesn't matter which monster you summon. My Assault Knight will still attack you directly, allowing me to win this duel."

"We'll see about that," Yuto said, feeling even more angry at the imposter knight. He drew a card. He was holding The Phantom Knights of Ragged Gloves, The Phantom Knights of Silent Boots, Phantom Knights' Fog Blade, The Phantom Knights' Rank-Up-Magic Launch, and Phantom Knights' Spear. If he could time his cards just right, he should be able to bring out his Antiluminescent Knight before the end of his turn. He smiled confidently, ignoring the already-worsening pain inside him.

"I told you, there is nothing you can do!" Ashley taunted. "Even if you get rid of Slash, I still have plenty of Assault Knights in my deck! I'll simply bring out another one to finish you off during my next turn!"

Yuto winced in pain. "Laugh all you want, imposter knight," he said. "But I am a true knight."

"So what?" Ashley asked. "It's not like anyone cares. All they want is a good show, and a good show is what they shall have!"

"It's not like anyone cares..."

Those five words that spilled out of Ashley's mouth echoed in Yuto's head, except instead of subsiding into silence like most echoes do, it kept ringing and repeating over and over, increasing in speed and volume until it hit a certain point where it all came crashing down. Where a nerve has been struck. Where the rage became too much to control.

His opponent had unleashed the beast from its cage.

"GAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!"

The Sakakis were alarmed to see Yuto in such pain as he dropped his Duel Disk and the cards in his hand. "Yuto!" Yuya called out. "You have to control it!"

"I can't!" Yuto exclaimed, slowly losing consciousness as dark purple scales appeared on his body. "I- GAAAAHHHH!"

As he screamed out with all the energy left in his conscious, the dark purple scales completely covered his body, which was gaining some new and monstrous features in his werewolf-esque transformation. Wings pierced through and ruined his armor and sprouted from his back, his hands and feet became claw-like, the color of his eggplant hair turned darker, and once the transformation was complete, his eyes flashed open and glowed yellow. This unexpected form's appearance was parallel to Zarc's revived look, but it was more of an XYZ variant of it. Much like how his incarnation became Supreme King Dragon Z-ARC through Astrograph Sorcerer's effect, the intense struggle of maintaining his heated anger turned Yuto into a creature who looked like he fused with Dark Requiem XYZ Dragon.

Everyone was surprised, especially the Sakakis. "Yuto...?" Yuya muttered.

"I tried to warn him. Repressing all that built-up rage can lead to some disastrous results."

"Wait, that was his doing?" Yuya asked.

"Dark Rebellion was getting anxious to fight that poor excuse of a knight. So when Yuto refused to use him, he kinda...came out on his own."

But, if this was Dark Rebellion's doing, then why does Yuto bear Dark Requiem's physical traits? Did his heated fury cause his ace to…Rank-Up? Just as Yuya was processing what happened, he witnessed his cousin activating Dark Requiem's first of two effects since Dark Rebellion used himself as an Overlay Unit. By detaching himself, he reduces the opposing monster's ATK to 0 as he gains ATK equal to the target's. With Slash the Assault Knight having 1500 ATK, it will increase the dragon's strength up to 4500, giving Yuto an OTK win.

"Do you really think your little costume change can scare me?" Ashley asked.

The Dark Requiem-Yuto hybrid looked like he was charging towards Slash, but he skyrocketed up in the air instead before stopping and extending his wings. Light illuminated from them and revealed what resembled stained glass windows on each wing; he slowly opened his mouth to let out a growl as his chin started to glow. Within mere seconds, he bolted towards Ashley's monster to finish his signature attack: Dark Destruction.

When the dust cleared, Ashley was laying down on the ground and his Duel Disk appeared to have been pierced. But despite this victory, everyone in the audience was stunned.

"The winner is...Sir Yuto of Obsidian?" the tournament hostess announced, confused with what just happened.

With the duel now over, the hybrid's Dark Requiem features began to disappear. The stained-glass "feathers" withered away as the wings shrunk back into his back, the claws transformed back into human nails on his hands and feet, and the darker dual-colored hair lightened up its tint, immediately followed by the light purple bangs falling down and covering his forehead and eyes—which have faded from yellow back to golden-yellow—due to being covered in sweat from trying to restrain himself from his anger. Yuto was back to normal, but as he was trying to remember what had happened, silence continued to fill the arena.

Realization sunk in as Yuto saw Ashley laying on the ground. "What have I done...?" he asked aloud. He fell to his knees, his hand covering his face as tears started to fall from his eyes. "WHAT HAVE I DONE?!"

After a few minutes of silence, the King stood from his throne. "I'm not quite sure what had happened, but I wish for Sir Yuto to stand before me."

"Wait, your highness!" Yuya exclaimed, standing up from his seat. "My cousin had every right to be angry at Ashley." He activated a holographic projection from his Duel Disk. "Everything he said was true. The Knights of the Duel Disk are more like bullies than real knights."

The holographic projection displayed a moment from the Arc League Championship. As Yuya was explaining Shay about what happened, Ashley, Bram, and Carl deliberately interrupted them with their duel. They figured they would surround Shay and have the three Slashs' attacks and effects hit him as a way to not get penalized; with Yuya also caught in the fray, he felt the physical harm of them by getting blown away from one of the attack's force. The two didn't want to duel these "knights" because doing so would result in an intrusion penalty and would lead them to lose 2000 LP. Even so, the three purposefully unleashing attacks with 0 damage just to injure Shay and Yuya wasn't part of being knightly, which was why Yuto despises them.

"You see?" Yuya asked. "The Knights of the Duel Disk are nothing more than Duelists who use cheap tactics to win. So if you're gonna punish anyone, punish the false knight, not Yuto. He's noble, loyal, and has a big heart, making him a true knight."

"I know, young prince," the King said. "I suspected Sir Ashley was some kind of trickster, so I wish to award Sir Yuto with the greatest treasure in all the land for not only winning the tournament, but for also punishing a wicked person."

However, Yuto was too broken to even stand up. "I'm not a knight..." he muttered under his breath, sobbing hard. "I'm nothing more than a mere beast..."

Yuya turned off the holographic image. "Come on, cuz!" he encouraged. "Stand up and accept your reward!"

"I can't!" Yuto snapped, his eyes glowing periwinkle. "I don't even deserve to call myself a knight!"

"That's not true, Sir Yuto," the King said. "I have witnessed a lot of knights take part in this tournament, but I have never encountered a soul as brave as yours. You have the heart of a true champion and a soul that is courageous and true. In another time, you could have been a great king such as myself."

Yuto removed his hand from his face. "Me...? A king...?" he asked, looking up as his eyes stopped glowing.

Yuya approached Yuto and knelt next to him, picking up his glasses. "So whaddya say?" the tomato-haired teen asked, moving his cousin's bangs away from his eyes and putting his glasses back on him. "Ready to accept this great treasure?"

Yuto simply stared back at Yuya, with a much clearer vision now that his glasses were on and his bangs weren't covering his eyes. Was it really true that he could have been a king? A brave, powerful, genuine, and tenacious king? Despite transforming into whatever he had become? If that was the case, then he could be a king…to Lulu's queen.

Yuto picked up his cards and Duel Disk, strapping it to his left wrist as he stood up. "Very well," he said. He smiled softly at his cousin. "Thanks Yuya."

Yuya pulled Yuto in for a one-armed hug. "Don't mention it," he said. "Now go get that treasure."

Yuto adjusted his glasses and walked over to where the King and Queen were sitting; behind them was a chest, which housed the greatest treasure in all the land.

"Behold, the greatest treasure in all the land!" the King announced, prompting a Faire employee to open the chest on his behalf.

The treasure was none other than a golden sword with a thick, sky blue lining along the blade and a sky blue gem encrusted on said blade.

"The greatest treasure is a sword?" Yuto asked.

"Not just any sword," the King explained. "This is the Sword of Nobles. Only knights with the purest of hearts can wield it."

"And you're...giving it to me?" Yuto asked.

"Of course," the King answered. "It's yours to keep. Think of it as a reminder of how worthy you truly are."

"Now why don't you pick it up and accept your destiny as a noble knight?" the Queen asked. "I'm certain that the family you are loyal to would be proud to see what you have accomplished."

Family he's loyal to? Was she mentioning…the Obsidians? With his eyes lock onto the sword, it was starting to become clear for Yuto. This sword was being given to him because he inherits the qualities of a true knight: nobility, loyalty, chivalry, purity, bravery, heroism, and courage. These were all part of his gentlemanly personality, which was why Lulu probably fell in love with him in the first place. As a result, it led to Kameron and Astra arranging their future marriage, giving him a job offer, and letting him live with them until he has an official plan for his future. They knew from the moment their daughter talked about how she met him that he was a perfect fit for her; their discussion must have occurred after the school day had ended.

This quickly led to the realization that the Obsidians were actually a really nice family, whether they were out in public or staying at their house. He had let his fears and worries about not being able to fit into an elite environment cloud his mind, but his core personality generally remained unaffected. Perhaps he can find living with Lulu and Shay to be quite the learning experience; it never hurts to pick up some tips about being in a high class society. He may need them when he sets off on his own journey, after all. If there was one thing clear about this journey, it was still under construction, but him marrying his girlfriend was definitely going to be something to look forward to.

With newfound confidence in his eyes, Yuto picked up the sword. "I, Sir Yuto Osaku of the Obsidians, accept this gift," he told the King and Queen. He felt the urge to kneel, but he refused. If he was going to start blending in with the rich and elite, he had to stop belittling himself.

"Yeah, but next time Dark Rebellion is anxious to fight someone, please use him in a duel. He seems to have developed the same code of honor you have."

"Ladies and gentlemen, presenting the winner of this year's Magic and Wizards tournament: Sir Yuto Osaku of the Obsidians!" the King announced.

Yuto presented himself to the crowd and raised his newly-gifted sword in the air, leading to everyone—now having an understanding as to why he transformed thanks to Zarc—cheered for their new champion. With his newfound confidence and self-esteem, he knew he was finally ready to begin his new life among the rich and elite.

[easkyrah]

An Assassin’s Affection 2

The dark-haired female stares at herself in the mirror, staring at every blemish and scar decorating her own face. If she’d been a tapestry, she’d been strung and strewn over layers of needlework, many loose strings and scissors surrounding her.

“Oh, how your kingdom will fall

when you find that your discarded pawn

was the queen all along”

[Nessian Assassin AU]

Varian had patched her silently as she stared blandly at the wall. The faint sounds of water droplets hitting the cement broke the silence, with the atmosphere of the void of emptiness persisting. The empty warehouse had been a meeting point of theirs, just to trade information that leaked through her employer’s mouth or the ones that the streets whispered when she coasted on the rooftops; he just told her anything she asked to ease her mission stuffed into her arms she had no part she desired of.

One of the notorious underground crime lords, he had become one of her unlikely allies as she had posed as one of his escorts to kill one of his contacts—also one of Tomas’s targets. Varian hadn’t noticed her among his personal escorts and immediately ordered her capture, but she’d escape, only to see him the next day, holding a silver dagger through the heart of one of her targets. He offered a deal, and she took it, needing every ounce of help and assistance she could find in this black and dark world where it seemed only monsters thrive.

He slew the last stitch through her, a slight hiss escaping her throat. A tap to her wrist indicated that he was done, and she flexed her shoulders.

She knew Varian had most likely looked her up as soon as they started seeing each other in the most unlikely places that was not meant for a consort. It didn’t matter as soon as he saw her snap the neck of one of the other target’s bodyguards and shoot the target through the head. He knew that she wasn’t pure and what she stood for. He knew who she worked for, and had stood disgusted, not that she blamed him.

Until she could pay off her debts to Tomas for the shelter, however unwillingly, and all the weapons she used, she remained hostage to him. Varian had set up a trust fund in the underground markets for her, and some nights, she would see him surreptitiously dropping a gold coin or two into her bank deposit.

He was the Phoenix’s shadow, or no way near her guardian angel. An older brother of sorts. They had never had a full on normal conservation, discussing this arrangement of theirs, but Nesta didn’t mind.

She pressed a ruby necklace in his hand, the one he’d been eyeing from the shops the last time they’d stood together at the end of the sewers, searching for one of the other crime lord’s one-eyed informats scurrying around.

A faint smile graced his lips and he slipped the pendant into his pocket. She changed out of the hospital gown cut open at the back and into her gear as he washed his hands with brutal efficiency, packing his medical kit. She saluted him as she headed for the door, throwing open the metal panel. However, before he returned her usual farewell with a tip of his hat, and jumped out the window, he whispered a request in her ear, leaving her face ashen for a split-second.

Nesta nodded, and a viper’s smile formed on her face.

The hardest part of the ordeal was shopping for clothes. She had headed for the athletic section, still finding the entirely cotton shirts worthless and unnervingly short pants absolutely ridiculous.

Dismissing one of the store employers who didn’t seem to know the difference between a strain and a sprain, Nesta grabbed a set of blouses and other unnecessary pairs of jeans that would hinder her maximum performance if she was caught in the middle of a fight. The most dangerous enemies knew what her true face looked like without a mask and would most likely be tracking her every moment.

She didn’t like this different approach, and gritted her teeth as she went to the cash register. When the worker dared to short-change her, Nesta called the manager and threatened to sue, pulling up her shades to indicate that she meant business. The tiny man had profusely apologized and let her choose another set of clothes for free, in which she took up, sneaking in a pair of boots when the cameras weren’t looking.

Sighing, she closed her trunk shut, and cursed loudly as her earpiece crackled into existence.

“Get your fine piece of ass over to second base,” Tomas said, and then shut down the link.

Nesta instantly shut her car door, and changed into her gear, sending a blessing for the tinted windows. By the time she arrived at the warehouse, the clouds had matched her mood, gray streaks piercing the air. Soft rain pattered down her windshield, and Nesta shoved her bags under the seat lest one of Tomas’s goons catch sight of her non-contraband materials by any chance.

When she stalked inside, forcing herself to loosen her muscles, the man of her nightmares sat at the head of a table, another of his acquaintances in a black trench suit sitting on his left.

The man turned, and she recognized the one-eyed man. Or at least, now two-eyed man. Varian had pinched out the other orb at as a means of last resort in extracting information when the man wouldn’t speak of Tomas’s plans.

“Hello, Nesta.” Tomas grinned, and gestured to the empty seat to his right. “Why don’t you take a seat?”

Dining with the wolves. Her favorite.

She obediently sat, wondering why he was here. Varian nor her hadn’t tipped him off of who she was, wearing one of her random masks that she fine-tuned to change a bit in appearance every time she hit the streets.

“This here is a man who was attempting to rise to the top of the hierarchy.” Tomas gleefully gestured to his left, but the man showed no indication of hearing. Her employer frowned, eyes flashing. “You see, Nesta, he’s blind because two bitches on the streets took his eye. The first was his employer, and the second a man he wants to kill.”

She slid a dagger out of her sleeve, and glanced at the man warily. Those pinkish, dirty yellow colors swirling around in his eyes were the first sign of infection. He should be demanding treatment, but—

“Tonight, this man will take you, and then you will continue with your latest mission.” Those black eyes pitied against, and Nesta felt bile roll up in her mouth. It had been a month since her employer had scheduled her appointment in the sex trade, choosing instead to use her abilities out on the field where a different type of monster of degradement awaited.

The man, looking straight ahead, placed a pair of steel chains on the table, the clinking sound having her insides shudder. She knew what he wanted to do to her, and her toes curled in protest.

“No,” Nesta said, watching the man’s eyes furrow. “No,” she repeated, this time louder.

“No?” Tomas snapped, almost disbelievingly. “You don’t have any choices here. You have no say and no freedom, and no right to decline.”

Her eyes turned to storm, and her back straightened, a pillar of steel and ice. “You had no right to kidnap me a rape me no more than any other female around here. You shaped me into a weapon when I was weak. You are lucky I continue to kill and pay my debts that I should never had accumulated in the first place. So no, Tomas, look for another girl to pick on.”

“You will respect me!” Tomas roared, and within a second, a whip laid wrapped around his wrists.

She flinched, and he grinned, one smile full of vile and vices. The way he moved that whip—

Nesta lifted her head. “This is not respect. This is control and dominance. This is abuse.”

The other man cocked his head, rubbing a knuckle. Slowly, his head turned towards Tomas, who was breathing heavily. “She’s a bitch, isn’t she?” He lowered his voice. “I don’t need to see her to know what fun she’ll be under me.”

“I may be a bitch, but no female deserves to be treated like this,” Nesta hissed, and flung the dagger outwards, a second following a different path. She didn’t watch them hit their targets as she fled the building, starting the engine.

No one followed her as she jerked the truck forward, the taste of blood clogging her nostrils and the tang of metal ringing in her ears.

The bar was a sorry excuse for one, with cheap shots and disgusting liquid that stung as it poured down her throat. Nesta didn’t care, as long as no one recognized her. She’d braided her hair and changed into one of the fruitless pieces of material that exposed more skin than she’d liked. Loud music drained out any thoughts as she tried to imagine the expressions that would cloud the other trained faces she’s seen walking in the hallways—what they would think when their boss no more.

She knew someone would seek retaliation against her for the second man’s death. There was always unwarranted ties and unspoken alliances that spun through the underground streets, fueling the tensions and cracks in their bittered society. The second man’s eyes had been gutted partly because of her, and his death had been laid in her hands. His last wisps of air, Nesta had decided, would serve as a symbol to others that would seek vengeance against her.

Her blade had flung at an expert arc horizontally that had sliced through his neck completely. A beheading.

An execution. Those soulless eyes had blinked no more.

Tomas was a different story.

It had been unspeakable to lay a hand nor speak a syllable in front of her master. There were no consequences for killing a boss since no one would dare in the first place. Except Nesta knew she hadn’t murdered Tomas with the first blade that had landed directly between his eyes. If she had, she would have accumulated more death and decay her already full plate would have no means of rejecting.

She’d thrown the dagger so softly at Tomas it’d barely pierce his flesh. No, at most the blade would hit his frontal bone and spur him unconscious. He’d bleed out, risk brain damage, but be alive—and live to torture another soul.

He wouldn’t die by her hand. She had made sure of that.

“I need a body to experiment a new drug on,” Varian had whispered in the warehouse hours ago. “By the end of the day.”

So Nesta had obliged, providing him with Tomas’s body.

Varian had headed over and stolen his body, interrogating his last minutes on Earth. He had asked why she’d provided him with this body over the blind man’s; she’d only replied with a sick smile plastered on her face, over their untraceable phone, “It’s him.”

The man who had created this nightmare and kept her under it for years—when she needed respite with peaceful dreams rather than the undulating, poisonous thoughts. The one who had touched her where she had deserved to be worshipped. The man who had broke her when she needed someone to build her up.

So Varian had informed her he had pumped Tomas’s body with morphine and other drugs to keep his brain fluids from leaking and heart beating—so that after the tested the opiate, he could further wreck pain like no other on Tomas’s body.

Nesta had merely stated to make sure that his dick was caught off and he was whipped.

Tomas’s last moments here wouldn’t be pretty, nor would it be grand. It would be brutal and messy, Varian gutting apart each socket and stuffing pins and needles through his sunken flesh.

A cold smile seared her face, and she sipped the cup harshly.

“You’re looking a little tense there, sweetheart.” A male voice, dripping honey, appeared next to her. A large, well-built body slid in the stool next to her. “Can I buy you a drink?”

Beautiful, deep brown eyes with ropes of corded muscle that white-collared shirt could not hide. Each movement had a ripple of tendon as he flexed his arms in a casual manner Nesta knew all too well. He looked oddly familiar as he waved the bartender over, and there was something to that rugged face that sent her on edge.

No rutting way. Even though that shot had been across ten buildings, she would never forget that smirk as her bullet had sunken through the wrong person. Her first missed shot. Her first whipping. Her first realization that she deserved more, than just pain and emptiness.

His own appearance didn’t seem quite as fully relaxed, those arms tense as if readying for a fight. The gauze and pad on his shoulder had her more suspicious. Her nail jabbed it, not too nicely. “Where did you get that?”

The male huffed and flinched as pain shot through his shoulder. “Just in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

That confirmed her fears and she flung out of the seat and headed towards the bathroom. A sense of calm rage appeared over her, and senseless feelings of violence and the absence of peace had long nagged at her. Two women emerged from the bathroom, clad in skimpy clothing and red lipstick dotting their mouths.

She froze as they passed her, completely oblivious to her ignorance.

Those mouse brown strands of hair, one shorter than the other, her giggle—the older one’s hand on the younger’s elbow as they sashayed onto the dance floor—

Her sisters were in town.

Nesta cursed herself and the world as she went into the parking lot, the cold air kissing her skin. She found herself shivering for no reason, not when this night was nothing compared to others of being locked outside, chained to a lamppost, where other males would paw and jeer at her.

She didn’t know silent tears had flowed down her face until a thumb gently wiped it away, and the male at the bar stood in front of her. It had taken her entire willpower to allow him to sneak up on her and let him carry on his business. Except she didn’t think he would approach her.

“I’m Cassian,” he offered, his own body radiating heat and warmth.

She deserved to rot in empty coldness for every body that was now decaying and decomposing because of her. They taught her to have no remorse, and to not think except to focus on her next assignment. But Nesta was human and had a family before, so she’d transformed into a shell instead of a truly empty weapon. She’d become fixed between knowing her own mortality and the deaths of others, her mind shattered beyond repaired. There was no healing and mending save for her own injuries.

Cassian stared at her, an unreadable expression on his face. “Crying is just a sign of being strong for too long.” He hesitated for a second before extending an open palm. “Would you like to go out for dinner?”

Nesta looked down at his hand. At what he could give her: happiness and contentment and undeserved fortitude.

So she stared at him, letting that calm mask fall over her face. “No,” she firmly said, and headed towards her truck. She could feel the other male’s eyes burning in hers, and she wondered if he had been outright rejected before.

No.

She needed to think, and Cassian had already started to plague her mind. Too much emotion in too little time—her sisters were here, and Nesta needed to get her hands on that file, and see what Tomas accusations against Feyre had deemed her worthy of death.

As she started pulled the gears in reverse, the male stood outside the bar, his hands in his pockets, watching her go—and flee from him as usual.

“She doesn’t recognize me.” He grinned into his earpiece. “At all.”

[bermudaagentofchangebooks]

America by Gabby Rivera and Joe Quinones

Phasma (Star Wars): Journey to Star Wars: The Last Jedi by Delilah S. Dawson

Journey to Star Wars: The Last Jedi Leia, Princess of Alderaan (Star Wars: Journey to Star Wars: the Last Jedi) by Claudia Gray

Jean Grey Vol. 1: Nightmare Fuel by Dennis Hopeless and Victor Ibanez