Meijosui's Authoress Notes: Sorry for being the hostage to hiatus but I have been playing this particular game and it got me hooked… Back to business! I want to write while this is fresh and beautiful.

Chapter 13- Valhalla on Earth

Monk Phi Long could see the Rare Hunters left not too long ago. He wanted to take Bryn but while that Blond Egyptian is protecting him, he will let them think he is chasing them. He knows the whereabouts of where Justus is. Berlin is just a detour for them as this will be swift. The race is too easy. He watched the planes take off from afar along the runway as he stroked his long beard. He knew this was going to challenge the Rare Hunters right. Kenosha won't be defeated.

Clara yawned loudly as her lean body stretched. She grabbed her phone to make a call to Abbey. The dial tone was cut off. Perhaps she turned it off. She huffed as she worries about her daughter and son's welfare.

In a way, she had wished she told her two children about the dangers in the criminal world. Clara started playing with her hair as a teenager. The air conditioning was blasting as her skin screams form warmth. Clara became restless as she turned her phone on again and on speaker mode and this time calling Bryn. She ran her slender fingers through her scalp and knew that her little boy must be participating in this very same race.

The airport had a fishy pungent aroma, which adds to the same frustration. Perhaps it was the boy beside her. Eon was somewhat an intelligent and disciplined student of the Pokhara region. Although she questions his hygiene ethics because she had seen him as one of the first to witness the boy's grubby habit of picking his nose and flicking the dried booger made her want to either punch the boy and teach him proper ethical hygiene or leave Kenosha. If Bryn were to mirror this boy, she would make him place a peg on his nose for 1 minute as a consequence.

Clara missed Canadian life. The fact that she could watch Karate Kid with her children every second week was one of the things that would draw her family in a close-knit.

"Master, tell me more about the Rare Hunters…" Clara rested her chin into her palm.

The other Kenosha members held her in high regard and bowed slightly.

"Where is my Husband, Patrick?" Clara asked.

"He is safe."

"Thank You, I think if we go straight to Berlin I can meet my children there. However, I want to see my prize in Frankfurt."

Eighteen Years Ago

She was a young and hopeful girl, the Nepalese graduate of Doctorate of Commerce Law as she sat in the chair of her convocation. Her graduation gown was draped gracefully as she approached her time on stage.

"Clara Ainesh Gandharva, Doctorate of Commerce Law with a thesis, 'Implications of data privacy laws on business operations- legal counsel from Canada.'" Clara stepped on stage and received her qualification. The round of applause roared as she smiled. As she walked back down a familiar guy she met a week ago in the Duel Monsters convention waved at her in the audience.

Meanwhile, Clara joined her Eida Gandharva for the photographs. "Ma, I think you better meet Hugh. He's a good friend of mine." The Nepalese girl held her mother's hand thoughtfully until her group of friends gave her bouquets of flowers and a graduation gift each. Hugh also graduated so he noticed the beautiful girl he waved to earlier.

"Clara!" Hugh waved to her and shook hands with the older woman.

"You look so handsome!" Clara's mom complimented. "No wonder my daughter would not stop talking about you."

Hugh smiled as he received the flattery. He gave Clara something in a bag, "I was really looking the limited edition and I found it."

"NO WAY EEEEK!" Clara squealed as she handed her bouquet to her mom. When she opened the gift, she opened it and realised it was the hat with bunny ears she was looking for the whole time. She then lunged at Hugh and hugged him. "I love it! Where did know where to get it?"

"Well I did a little research and I managed to-"

"Look, whatever… I want you to come over to celebrate!" Clara in high ponytails smiled.

"And there is also another thing… could you-" Hugh tried to gather enough courage to ask her out but was interrupted.

"Hey Tate, I read your research! I want to be part of your project." Clara said excitedly.

"Sure, I mean you have my number right?" Tate asked.

"Yeah!"

"Cool Cool… see you then." Tate said as he had to run.

Clara sighed and turned back to her mom and her mom gave her flowers to her Elder Sister Gale. Hugh took a little more courage to ask again. Hopefully, it isn't too soon and rushed. He really loved the way Clara was smart and sturdily strong.

"Clara, I will go home to open the house for your party. Be home early so I don't get worried." Clara's mom said.

"Sure Ma, I will be back soon," Clara said. When Hugh was left with Clara, they walked over to the lounge.

"Cla-"

"Hugh-"

Hugh then said, "You first…"

"I wanna watch Karate Kid!" Clara said.

"Sure now? I mean don't you wanna watch something more recent like The Sister Act 2?"

"Nope, I not going watch a gospel music movie over martial arts. C'mon!" Clara stubbornly took Hugh's hand.

"I also wanna say something… I was wondering if you wanna go out with me?" Hugh finally said.

"But we are already out, don't be silly… Oh! I get it!" Clara went beetroot red as she realised the boy she had a secret crush on just asked her out.

"I mean if you want, I can ask again…"

"Definitely yes, Hugh now let's go home before we have the party!" Clara jumped around.

"Do you wanna be my girlfriend?"

"Duh! I mean a week ago we met but I didn't even know you came to this same University. The Tournament was just my excuse to celebrate my end of finals." Clara confessed.

"WOW! I thought you'd reject me!"

"But I love me Eiii-rish boiii, how could aye rejects yer." Clara imitated the accent.

"No, I want to support mom as a single parent too so I need to be independent and find a career." As Clara found her wallet, she got her cash out to buy a ticket home. Hugh also did the same as he knew he found the right woman.

"May I ask then, what happened to your dad?" Hugh asked.

"I have never met him because he- I just don't know…" Clara looked up, "We were told he was a sergeant serving in Japan and so he started another family…" She sighed. "Who am I kidding, I came home and suddenly my mom suddenly kept calling me Chitra as if I was an alien."

"I see… Starting a family… For me, I will never leave you, Clara. I promise." Hugh said pondering about something deep.

"I think you are perfect, Hugh, I mean I have seen you in lectures for all the five years of studying…"

Meanwhile, as they arrived home, no one was present. Clara took the VHS of Karate Kid and started playing it. All the trophies his newly proclaimed girlfriend won from Kung fu and her commerce research projects, on the other hand, amazed high.

Hugh saw a family photo of Clara's mom and her older sister when one her sister was a toddler and Clara was a baby but no dad. Perhaps the mom was hiding something from her? Next to the family photo was a brass statue of Buddha sitting pristinely.

"Come and sit down Hugh!" Clara said. He turned to his heels and for the first time as her boyfriend sat and put his arms around her.

After the movie, the guests came over with games after party. Clara saw Amanda flirting with a few guys from college. Typical best friend…

As they locked eyes, Amanda lowered her tequila glass while she was still chatting with Trey. Clara came over and hugged her.

"Is it just me or are you having a thing with Hanky Hugh?" She covered her mouth as though there was gossip.

"Mandy, we're it!" Clara said in excitement.

"My my, so we're not the only hot couple now." Trey nudged Amanda.

"Well, I guess you're not then, where are you off to?" Clara asked Trey.

Trey then tapped his martini glass with a stirrer, It caught the parties attention, "Hey guys, first of all, I wanna congratulate all of you in completing this milestone. I would also give a shout out to Dr Clara Ainesh Gandharva for opening a place to spend our last few moments as graduates. As you all know, I have only told a few folks about my future plans. Today I have thought vigorously long and hard about this lucky girl And where my next 10 years. I will be heading to Nashville Tennessee to record my first album. I did not spend three years in the recording studio by University campus to end my passion for music. We had great times making our band with orchestral elements in our basketball cheerleading session for no reason. I'm now going to reveal the lucky girl. And the second year you brought me to tears show me your touching song weather brother passed away. You woke me up every 6 AM so that we have our share of Poutine and later run intensely to school. The way you smile lights up the whole room and even your glances make me want to spend my whole life with you." Trey pulled something out of his track pants, a red velvet box. Amanda cried up. "Miss Amanda Whitley, will you marry me?"

People started cheering and whistling as Trey went on one knee. Amanda nodded and started crying, "Yes… Trey, I'll marry you!"

The light from the sunrise woke the Egyptian blond. The hotel lacks curtains as the light seeped through the crack from the Venetian blinds. Bryn was still curled up and sound asleep. Odion must be in another hotel room, which he didn't mind. Marik stretched and yawned as his body clock had switched again. Funny enough, the wing of his Millennium Rod hooked his grey shirt in an odd twist and he smiled.

"And I woke up like this…" Marik murmured with sarcasm. He untwisted the seams and straightened his shirt.

As he entered his bathroom, he was shocked that the mess was Bryn's once again. The banana peel from the previous night in the sink, the Sakata packet was on the toilet seat. He clenched his fists and huffed, longing to scream as his lackey but he withheld the urge. Instead, he picked them up and threw it on Bryn.

"Wh-what?" As Bryn woke up, he saw Marik standing in front of him with his arms folded.

Marik looks rather pissed, and then Bryn remembered why he is now. His beautiful lavender orbs mixed with his wrathful expression made Bryn cringe. Yet Marik said nothing and pointed to the trashcan instead of yelling.

The older teen stormed back in the bathroom and locked the door. Bryn then got out of his bed and placed the peel and packet inside the trash can. What a morning! He went back to bed as he could hear Marik turn on the faucet of the shower.

When Marik finished his shower, he wore one of his Rare Hunter cloaks as it was easier to set his mind on work. He felt that there weren't any of his earrings on as he remembered he took them off the night before to thoroughly disinfect his jewellery.

"BRYN!" Marik yelled.

Bryn jumped as his master called for him. "Yes, Master?"

"Bring me my burgundy luggage!" He lowered his voice.

"Umm, you mean the one with the gold jewellery? They're really heavy." Marik heard that his jewellery was heavy, he sighed as he ignored Bryn's comment. Bryn was about to knock the door when Marik opened.

"They were bubble wrapped as you told me to protect them." The brunette chuckled.

"And you did a fine job, little Bryn. Let me know if you need a favour done today. I would like to reward you for your effort." Marik inserted his earring.

"So does it mean I get to play more of my guitar?" Bryn smiled enthusiastically.

"You fool, not what you want to do, what I desire but with my aid to you." Marik scolded him. However, Marik saw Bryn shatter slightly and smirked.

"What is the plan, Marik?" Bryn said glumly.

"Remember our little trip to the gate of Shadow Realm, I wish to send a few of the Kenosha buffoons thereafter some duelling." Marik chuckled as he pulled Bryn to him.

"BUT NOT MY MOM!"

"Of course not your mother, boy!" Marik growled. "I mean that little runt and the foolish monk. Tsk!"

"I see… you're still pissed at the boy for nuking you with his advanced kung fu." Bryn chortled nervous enough to detect Marik's peeve.

"Now I want my revenge by banishing him into the Shadow Realm, we will have less competition."

"Do you keep a list of the population in Shadow…Realm…" Bryn suddenly asked his Master.

"Just the ones I have banished. Bryn… Are you always on my side?"

Bryn watched Marik wear his gold choker and gulped as he saw the strangling sensation. "Sooo… do you want to breakfast on the go?"

"No. I want to focus on our race. Turn on your computer now!" Marik sneered. Bryn scrambled out before Marik grabbed his arm.

"Wait… could you bring your deck instead? I want you to duel with me."

"B-but you said you wanted—

"I know what I said, but I want to see you duel," Marik explained. Then a knock at the door distracted them.

"Who's that?" Bryn arched his brows.

"A Rare Hunter…"

"He has a name right?"

"You can ask him, little Bryn. He is named after the peanut butter cup chocolate" Marik chuckled.

"WHAT?" Bryn splattered. As the door opened Odion and an unknown Rare Hunter with silver spikes. Marik growled as he seemed to dislike the other accompanying Odion.

"Master Marik, the Exodia specialist is here. This is Rinoa Hershey." Odion informed but Marik closed the bathroom door locking Bryn and himself in.

As Bryn glanced at Marik, he took his deck from one of the other compartments. As he checked his deck he grabbed a second one out, which was labelled Bryn's deck. Bryn definitely doesn't own those cards but it was his Master's deck given to him.

"Since the time in London… I have formulated a new deck for you. You will sit with me during breakfast and go through each card." Marik stared down at his little lackey.

As Bryn sat at the dining table by the accompaniment of Marik, Odion and the random guy who called himself the self-deemed Exodia specialist. Marik decided to sit away from him at a table in the centre of the room and called Bryn over. Across the room was an average cafeteria with a worn-out chalkboard.

"Hey…come over here!" Marik leaned over, as he couldn't decide to call him by his nickname or something else.

Bryn pushed the chair over as the floor with a haul of squeaks. "I was kind of I the middle of leaving you along Master Marik."

"I have every right to request some accompanying if I desire. Now I want to talk about this half of the deck you have neglected to maintain the powerful." Marik stared down at him. Bryn gulped as his master had studied the deck well.

"You'll defeat me with no problem then." Bryn pouted.

"Of course I would but that is not what we're discussing right now. Could you work with me for a few hours to enhance your deck? I believe you have the skills to duel a spontaneous opponent." Marik finished his acai bowl and avocado and cheese toast. Bryn wondered about the Rare Hunter's name. Then he tummy rumbled just as he was thinking about breakfast.

"Why haven't you eat yet? You'll be famished after this sorting out your strategies. Here have my other toast..." Marik appeared angry in his caring gesture.

Bryn rubbed his eyes, "Oh gosh I'm not a puppy but I feel privileged to be fed." The little Irish boy was acting cute as he patted Marik's arm with his make believed paw.

"Enough, finish the toast so that we may begin and don't talk with your mouth full. Here are the salt and pepper." Marik pushed the two grinders to Bryn's direction.

"This would be your most valued counter traps, spells and monsters. I will be teaching you how to predict the opponent's moves, so even when your cards are shuffled…"

"Wait we could play the matching game!" That really irritated Marik as he glared at the boy. Bryn winced as though Marik had thrown a dart at him.

"...Shuffled at random. Now I believe the drawing phase will spare you some time to lease some normal summons and opportunity to be played. Your special summons and ritual summons are lacking, however. It is great that you have normal summon card to summon early but shan't you rely too much on that strategy." Marik explained what Bryn already knew but he was nonetheless an experienced duelist.

Bryn set the cards accordingly as Marik drew something from another deck. "What if I guess wrong?"

"Learn to adapt and recalibrate when you lose a couple of points. So if you have some tact and insults, by all means, throw it at your opponent." Marik smirked.

"Alright, I can try… so you're stalling Master Marik, you had too much bubble in the blond head of yours." Bryn laughed at his lame insult. Marik rolled his eyes and sighed.

"I'd much rather you concentrate on your duelling…" Marik said annoyingly.

"Master Marik had too much caffeine and all he dreamed of was grinding with 'Naturia Beans,'" Bryn wheezed as he dropped his cards on the table. He didn't even supposedly summon the card it was a real-life duel. Bryn helplessly held onto the table.

"A deplorably weak card, Bryn! I could use this trap card to eliminate all cards in both our side of the field…" Marik demonstrated, "furthermore I would have you render more than 2000 points but won't reveal my cards just yet, what will you do?" Marik showed Bryn the card, 'Twin twister'.

"Wow! I don't know sir. I would probably lose." Bryn lamented in his skills of prediction.

"Well, you have lost. You're just prolonging the outcome." Marik grinned.

"Not fair! You're using your powers." Bryn pouted.

"Huh! I have not used any of my powers, I just know little Bryn." Marik smugly informed.

"Oh… okay, that's discouraging…" Bryn pouted and lightly set aside his cards. Marik's grin subsided, he could see that Bryn wanted to give up.

"But you will need to duel for me and defeat opponents, Bryn. All opponents are not to be encouraging to say the least." The Egyptian boy placed his palm on the boy's shoulder.

Bryn looked at his cards again, and placed his cards in 'defence mode'. The practices are meant to be a rigorous training. Perhaps Marik knows what he needed to improve and even his strengths.

"You're… mmm… you're really helping me…"

Marik stared at him and nodded slowly. Then oddly shifted a card from Bryn's hand unseen and placed it in facedown positions. And placed his head on the table absorbing thoughts on a strategy Bryn was slowly learning. Marik looked directly at Bryn's eyes and placed a finger on another card.

"Trap or spell?"

"Marik, I… think it isn't working…" Bryn doubted."

"Well without my Millennium Rod I'm reading your eyes as to what is a trap or spell. Use one of them now." Marik instructed sternly. Marik placed his dummy opponent deck on his table.

"Oh… Oh… Oh… Oh My God! "I get it now!" Bryn laughed. Marik rolled his eyes.

"Don't rejoice too soon Bryn, you need to recover your life points or guard your life points with a versatile defence line. Remember that! The trap card that you just played saved you from this card." Marik showed Bryn. "Note that you need to do secondary summonings. If you had ritual and special summon, then you have to be quick. Again it that a lot of experience and patience." Marik explained.

Bryn was in awe that his move could advance Marik but of course with Marik's help. "Should we commence the race then?"

"As I said, you still have a lot to learn so do not rejoice too soon, you fool!" The younger boy was taken aback, as Marik snapped at him. Before Bryn could react Odion approaches them.

"You should respect Master Marik's time to put aside for you," Odion said to Bryn.

"That's right Odion, perhaps I should send you to the Shadow Realm in the efforts to refine your skills, little Bryn." Marik glared at Bryn.

Bryn simply just said, "Okay!"

"Not literally, you fool! Well just apply what I have taught you. Shall we walk around Berlin?" Marik calmed down.

"Master Marik, it's okay, I don't mind sitting a little longer and learn from you. It's just an honour to play with you and surreal to be refined by your expertise." Bryn said winsomely as he tried to gather his cards. He knew he was no match against Marik.

"Great to hear. I need our day to be free and refreshing as we are immersed in your duelling." Marik patted his back, "About the Rare Hunter over there, I think I want to have a little fun with him." Marik chuckled.

"What fun?" Bryn freaked out.

"You'll see…"

Marik rose from his seat as he approached the man and Bryn followed him too. "Do you know where the publishing outstation is?

"Master Marik! I-I…"

"Well, Hershey! Do you?"

"Vaguely, they make counterfeit currencies, Master Marik." The man quickly got to his knees and whimpered.

"That is not what I'm asking for you fool! Do you even have the brains to perceive a simple request?" The Egyptian Teen was pissed.

Bryn started tugging on to Marik's sleeves, "Master Marik, maybe you ought to be gent-"

"DON'T TOUCH ME BRYN, YOU FOOL!" Marik took the cup of water and splashed it on the other Rare Hunter, not Bryn.

"No-NO I'm sorry s-sir-" Marik grabbed his silver locks.

"I MEAN WHERE YOU'VE OBTAINED YOUR FIRST COUNTERFEIT SET OF EXODIA, YOU FOOL! PERHAPS YOUR BRAIN IS SWOLLEN THAT YOU HAVE FORGOTTEN YOUR PURPOSE!" Marik was loud enough to alarm the empty cafeteria. Bryn scanned around and there wasn't anyone at all. Thus the chefs' wall was blocked.

"BRYN!" The little jumped as he felt his skin leapt out of him. He could feel his Master's blood boil, not with him specifically perhaps. Bryn, however, didn't want to be involved in the issue, was it too late?

"It's… okay...erm, I stay away…" Bryn stepped back.

"TOO LATE! KNEEL LIKE THIS INSOLENT FOOL!" Marik pulled his ear. Bryn reacted in perhaps a little too much. He blocked Marik followed by a spin and jumped with a fly kick. Marik had no time to dodge and the little boy's foot landed on the Egyptian teen's head. What self-defence!

"Master Marik! Are you okay?" Odion caught Marik in time.

"YOU!" Marik's rage had completely turned to the little boy. Bryn freaked out but quickly ran out of the cafeteria and hotel. Marik's head was sore, as he felt the sting escalating in layers. He had almost forgotten his Millennium Rod as he searched for the young lad's mind. Should he stay mad at him?

He could see the boy running across the road without looking at the cars. What is he doing? Marik also ran out of the hotel. The merging intersection was easy to get to and hence Marik stopped at the island in the middle of the crossroads. Bryn had already proceeded in the next crossroads as a bus was approaching. Then the bus driver slammed on the breaks but he couldn't stop the vehicle on time. Marik used his Millennium Rod to push Bryn to the other side with a powerful force and the driver to swirl the bus to the other direction as the bus collided with the traffic light pole. Bryn surely tripped as he had a serious graze on his arms and knees.

When Bryn glanced back, he saw that was Marik who saved him, "BRYN YOU BETTER STOP WHERE YOU ARE!" However, he still felt a little off so he proceeded with his injuries as he limped. Bryn felt guilty for his self-defence, just the thought of it made it difficult to justify the actions. Perhaps it is also the fact that he fears Marik a little. He preferred it when Marik wasn't doing hurtful things.

Marik growled, he just saved the boy, how could he proceed running away from him. He could enter Bryn's mind but he decided against it. Marik will run to him and so he did as he crossed the road. Bryn had entered a building as he watched further though his Millennium Rod. Marik crossed a narrow bridge.

"Entschuldigung, welches Gebäude ist das?" Marik asked an older man with a camera.

"Es ist die Museumsinsel, Sir." The tall photographer said as he gave Marik a free sample of his artwork.

"The Pergamon Museum in Museum Island...G-Gibt e-ss einen Workshop zum Veröffentlichen der Duel Monsters Card?" Marik struggled a bit with his German.

"Ja, es läuft gerade." The man replied as he showed him a card that looked like a Duel Monsters cards but it customised into his garden and pet cat.

Without saying thanks, although he meant it, Marik nodded "Dan-" Perhaps he needs to work on his German but for not he needs to pursue after Bryn and attend the workshop.

"Namu!" Odion called from behind. Marik smirked as he remembered the silly alias he had made up.

"It's in there Odion, what a convenient trip. Now to find that foolish boy so our trip would be easier. That little runt will pay dearly" Marik hissed.

"Master, we will find him," Odion assured his little Brother.

"Why didn't you use your Millennium Rod to control his steps?" Odion asked Marik but he really shouldn't have asked him as he shot a death glare. "We split Odion, whoever finds Bryn will deal with him. I'm sure he won't want to deal with me right now." Marik chuckled.

"Yes, sir." Odion diverted to another part of the museum.

They both proceeded inside the building with a dome. This is the Pergamon Museum. Marik smirked, as he loved the historical context of this place. The museum's famous monument such as the Pergamon Altar was something he had read about the Roman influence to the so-called 'Throne of Lucifer' which was later erected by the ruthless Adolf Hitler himself. As he strolled past the monument, he stopped to walk on the steps where no one was. The sovereignty of the Pergamon was the very spiritual reality he wanted to taste to become the Pharaoh. Although some tourists were present, they didn't bother stepping on the monument.

Bryn limped into the room with busks. One was Cleopatra and Julius Caesar; he decided to hide behind the monument. As he looked behind, there were blood trails. Marik will definitely find him but he was taking his time. Did Marik save him earlier? Should he say sorry to Marik? He saw a familiar baldhead walk past; it was Odion so he quickly ducked. Odion isn't a mean guy, Bryn remembered but he is very loyal to Master Marik.

"I can see you, you know Mr Harkin," Odion said with honesty.

"You can?" Bryn said in surprise as he emerged out of the hiding.

"Are you feeling okay?" Odion said as he glanced at the grazes.

"Not well, but am I in trouble?" Bryn asked with concern.

"I am not aware what Master Marik plans for you but he isn't pleased with the incident earlier," Odion said.

Bryn saw Odion sitting on the ground next to him. Odion was not mad? Bryn felt a few drops of tears on his cheeks. Odion was empathetic as he placed one of his hands on Bryn's shoulder. Then suddenly Bryn burst into tears. "I'm scared of him…" Bryn was implying Marik.

"You do need your grazes fixed first." Odion side hugged the boy.

Meanwhile, Marik spotted them but he didn't join them right away. Instead, he hid behind the door while Bryn was crying and talking to Odion about him.

"Maybe I am not fit to be in the Rare Hunters… I mean, I can't duel like Master Marik and I cause more trouble and I'm afraid of him." Bryn sniffed.

"I'm sure you will improve, just let Marik handle his own affairs when it is the right time," Odion explained.

"What happens to quitters?" Bryn asked.

"It's not my place to answer that Bryn."

"Then the many souls that he sends to the Shadow Realm because they failed or have made into mind slaves I mean what do I do when I'm in this position over and over again? I am chaotic… I'm worthless and I think Master Marik…"

"No, Bryn Master Marik doesn't think of you that way. He is strict to keep us benefitted." Odion noticed his brother was listening to their conversation.

"But I- I- I- kicked him, and how am I any different to the other Rare Hunters that m-m-messed up their behaviour and- and- Master Marik will not for- for forgive me-"

"Surely our Master Marik is a reasonable judge of character and he does forgive." Bryn then stared for a few seconds at the adolescent Egyptian man.

"I'm not worthy to be here…" Bryn cried a bit more. "What it… What if, Master Marik is unforgiving! He won't accept my apology and he will send me to the Shadow Realm!" This was too much for Marik to hear. He stepped out and folded his arms.

"Enough of this drama, fool! I expect more from you now get up. I SAID GET UP!" Marik hissed. Bryn quickly hid behind Odion and embraced the little boy's need for refuge as his little brother stormed over to the boy.

Bryn burst into more tears, he as so afraid of Marik, so he started wailing. Marik seized Bryn's hand and chin and stared right into his watery eyes. "Bryn… you are a fool…" Marik wiped his tears with hands. He didn't look as angry as before but more like an apologetic gesture. "You nearly died Bryn!"

"But- you pulled my ear and it scared me-Aaah!"

"WELL IF YOU DIDN'T BUD IN ON MY CONVERSATION WITH YOUR INSOLENCE, THEN I WOULDN'T HAVE, BRYN!" Marik was outraged as his voice echoed through the museum followed by a dead silence.

Odion then cleared his throat at the pair stared at each other. Marik then drew a long sigh as he relieved the tension. Bryn's cooing continued as he felt guilt was overcoming his situation again. Marik didn't like treating Bryn like he was entirely at fault and if he had been careful about separating the attention to the Rare Hunter before Bryn, then it would have a different outcome.

"I admit, I would have sent you to the Shadow Realm if you were not with me in this mission. However, I do not think you are worthless from the beginning that we have met. You have never taken your tasks lightly, besides having some harmless and useless fun is all I want today. Bryn, you have respected me before anyone knew their obligation… so… we are destined to work as a formidable force together."

"It was you that pushed me safely." Bryn glanced over to the Millennium Rod that was lain on the floor. Marik picked it up and nodded.

"Of course," Marik affirmed.

Bryn rubbed his own ear remembering it still stung from Marik's tight pull a while ago that caused the havoc. Marik firmly turned the boy's head to check how his ear was. Bryn felt something cold on his ear. It was only Marik's, Millennium Rod.

"Wh-what?"Bryn felt Marik's hand with his own.

"I'm sorry for pulling your ear…" Marik averted his eyes towards Odion who was sitting silently and somewhat awkward about the situation.

"I was- was s-so… caught up and I kicked you…" Bryn also felt guilty as the two tried to reconcile.

Marik glared at Bryn as he remembered the crazy kick. No one had kicked him like that through self-defence. "Rare Hunters usually grovel… and I don't expect you to be in any of their position."

Odion whizzed in laughter and Bryn just looked confused. "Bryn… that really hurts…" At least Marik was open to Bryn about his feelings whether it was for self-defence or not.

"I'm really sorry Master Marik." Bryn hugged the teenage Egyptian.

Marik looked up and saw the to bust and recognised the Lady of Egypt, Cleopatra. Bless that little wench of a self-proclaimed pharaoh. Layla hated that girl and perhaps he does too.

"Apology accepted, my dearest little Bryn."

"Master…? You're so comfortable to hug." Bryn giggled.

"Hah, am I now?" Marik chuckled. "The publishing workshop is just here," Marik informed him. Bryn blinked in response to the mere coincidence.

"No Way!" Bryn snorted.

"It's for fun and other things. I could make a deck completely out of counterfeit but that would be a waste of effort."

"And you're teaching me to cheat!"

"No Bryn, that comes later."

So they proceeded to the workshop now that their chaotic morning was resolved. Much to Marik's relief, he was afraid Bryn would leave him but he won't admit that to Bryn.

The traffic gave in to massive detours as Budapest's afternoon was in a panic. The paled skin woman caressed her Persian white feline as she watched her followers pursue the escapees. Tasara finally decided to send his guards to pursue the R.H. She slid her purse across the seat to retrieve information about a race. The Kenosha is her threat as well as she read her information from a torn newspaper.

"Take me to this race, Kian. I'm exhausted and I need some time to take that brat down." Tasara popped her long slender 4-inch cigar and lit it.

"Yes, Ma'am!"

"Besides, I want to be reunited with my darling daughter. Oh how I miss her," Tasara puffed her first smoke and rolled down the window.

The trio sat at the side as Bryn tries to treat his own wound. Odion bought all the supplies and handed it to Bryn. Marik scowled as Bryn's hand kept slipping as he was working on his own elbows, so he chuckled awkwardly. Odion tried to help but Bryn insisted that he does his own.

"Nah it's okay I can do it myself big guy…"

"You have only one hand to treat your elbow though," Odion said.

Marik tapped his own foot watching the two discussing how Bryn should apply first aid. With amusement, he took the bandaid and pulled Bryn's elbow. Odion wasn't expecting Marik doing something for Bryn. Then Bryn got the other elbow and Marik did the same. "Perhaps the 'big guy's' little brother can help you. Surely you don't have to think about the hassle." Marik firmly pastes the bandaid after applying antiseptic on his elbows and his knees.

"Well, I kinda do worry about what people think about us, the odd trio hanging out in the museum." Bryn joked.

"I'm not odd…" Marik narrowed his eyes.

"Haha, then I am the oddity." The Irish boy said.

Marik chuckled, "Looks like these people are heading in for the workshop…"

"Wow, not a lot of people participating."

"I will not participate though," Odion informed Marik.

Marik nodded at Odion sat alone as he didn't want to be a part of the card publishing art. He watched the two boys drawing something.

"Master Marik, did you remember the time you sat on the throne on your ship? I still have a photo of it and this is my design." Bryn showed his Master the card design and the photo of Marik sitting on his throne.

"Why a literal card of me?" Marik furrowed his brow.

"I think it will be a powerful card to have yourself in your deck." Bryn poked his tongue out.

"It's meant to be an abstract card design. Fine, I guess I can keep it and remember how great I am." Marik sighed.

"What are you drawing?" Bryn looked over at Marik's work but Marik covered it.

"It's a surprise little Bryn, but I will give you a hint." Marik laughed.

"Okay, no thanks... you finish it." Bryn pouted.

The man in grey tuxedo then announced the submission instructions and the attendants did so. Another lady offered a business card of the company that was running this workshop. The motto was "Fake Deal that Works".

"Fake deal...that works…" Marik read the card as he found just the people to help him make counterfeit cards.

"Is it legit?" Bryn asked.

"I think they make it work as they are the ones that aided Maximillion Pegasus with card manufacturing before the technology had slightly been upgraded." Marik pondered.

Bryn had a hiccup and watched the display of the fake cards being played. Then he took the woman's attention as she walked over to the front.

"Hi, do you speak English?" Bryn asked the lady.

"Yes I do, I'm Helene Aderwiese. I'm the founder of Copy & Co. Did you enjoy your card making?"

"Yeah I did, I'm Bryn by the way. I work for this boy." Bryn pointed to Marik who was designing his fake card.

"You'd surprise how many people desire our partnership." She smiled. "Helping people motivationally is my way of building this business up."

"Come and meet my boss then. I mean he fancies what you're doing with making Duel Monsters a universal and free game for all." Bryn warmly took her hand.

"Namu… sir…?" Bryn addressed Marik rightly. Marik looked up as he glanced up and saw the lady.

"I'm Helene Alderweise", the lady pulled her hand out.

Marik looked at her hands but he did not shook hands with her. "I am busy but it's a pleasure to meet you."

Helene sat opposite the Egyptian teenager. Bryn could feel the tension building up so he said, "Miss Helene-"

"Mrs Helene Alderwiese, I would offer your company high pay if you are willing to partner with us. Should we be honest in our endeavour? Deal?" Marik pulled his hand for a handshake.

"Indeed Namu-"

"I preferred to be called Marik now that we have removed our walls and we have established a clean slate to begin our partnership." Marik continued drawing and Bryn was impressed with how Marik could handle a grown woman as his subject. Marik was too confronting in a passive-aggressive way. Then Bryn got a glimpse of Marik's Millennium Rod as a means of communicating to her.

"Y-yes, anything sir, I will do anything in my power to make you happy." Her expression suddenly changed.

"Excellent, now please publish this card for me." Marik handed the drawing to her and chuckled. Bryn cringed as Marik was somewhat being a jerk. "We'll be in touch then." Marik then shot a taunting glare at Bryn and Bryn panicked. Why did Marik use his Millennium Rod?

"You told her something with the Millennium Rod because her expression changed suddenly." Bryn was trying to make sense of what had happened.

"I have some ownership of this little company now. I was simply being honest and introduced myself in her mind. It is quite civil of me, Bryn. I only go undercover when I tell you to." Marik corrected Bryn's blunder.

"I didn't know, so I apologise Master."

"It is not a blunder that we couldn't fix so don't worry too much. She was polite and respectful as I offered a full salary. Money in our case can buy happiness. Don't you agree, Bryn?" Marik smirked.

"I don't agree-"

"Well?" Marik only wants to hear what he wants to hear.

"Aye, sir…"

"'Yes sir' is better." Marik was like Bryn's older brother that bosses him too much.

"Master Marik, even if I disagree I have to be honest with you, so I can't possibly lie."

"I know you disagree but there are times I just want you to please me. I am the one who is raising you up not your pathetic Kenosha of a mother." Marik scolded Bryn.

The little boy absorbed all the negativity from Marik. "Whatever… At least I was given my proper upbringing from her; Clara Ainesh Harkin… my mother and Monk Phi Long doesn't insult me when I disagree with them."

"How naive can you be about that foolish monk, my little Rare Hunter. He cursed you with the seal, and I'm sure your memory is not in absentia about that matter. How easily do your words betray your own emotions little Brynny?" Marik taunted Bryn knowing he'd win. Bryn shrugged to disguise his defeat in a poorly orchestrated debate, as he was neither going to fight against his Master or agree with him. Marik mockingly surveyed Bryn's defeated argument. Sometimes Bryn didn't mind the older boy stepping over him but today he did a little.

"Master Marik I- I don't like arguing with you and I regret all of my confrontations… to-today." That a slap on the cheek for Bryn as he knew his Master is his superior. Marik should have his way. Marik again wiped the tears away from Bryn's cheek but his mocking expression remained though.

It was not intentional as Bryn recalled, he just knew Marik's verbal fights are always one-sided. In that regard, he also felt the warmth of someone that amicably gives countless chances only to those who are scarcely deemed worthy in a strictly formed neo autocratic- fascist organized hierarchy, such as the Rare Hunters.

"I highly doubt it, and I don't mind helping you to revise your situation as I was the one that removed the curse. Your mother is travelling with that oaf so they are my enemies. So if I were in your little shoes my dear little Brynny, forget your family's role for now with them. I will be your elder brother." A more sincere expression formed in Marik's face. The kind of sincerity happiness cannot be bought. "Now that we're on the same page, I hope you reflect your childish behaviour today since the morning so we don't repeat another humiliating event. Shall we have lunch now?" Marik stood up, dusting off his leather jacket.

"Your cards are ready, please proceed to the front desk and collect them. The man announced as so they did. "Hello, the young short boy." Bryn turned to see what that announcer wanted.

"Sweet Mother of Valhalla… I hope my card looks good." Bryn muttered and Marik also approached him.

As three envelopes were given to them Bryn opened his. "Ahh!"

"Mariky the Purple King Octopus!" Marik was shocked about the richly edited fake Duel Monsters cards. His face went instantly bell pepper red as it has even the Millennium Rod and Golden jewellery and they both laughed.

"At least mine is a product of sensibility, Bryn." Marik showed only his first card of a picture with him and Bryn sitting back to back on a millennium eye symbol engraved on the rock as Marik held a flag of an Ankh and Clover. It was titled 'Chasseur Rares'.

"Dayum, we look so lit!"

Odion waited for Keren who was working at the café. She rounded up the food from the white marble countertop to where Odion, Marik and Bryn sat.

"We have a few more things to do today before we find the Justus. I-"

Marik felt like he was talking himself after watching Bryn and Odion exchange funny faces and giggling at the same time. Marik growled as they were meant to be listening to him.

"Indeed sir but the problem we are waiting for Emet to turn up," Odion responded as he chowed down his mushrooms.

"We don't need him, we have enough leads." Marik watched the time on his tiny watch under his armband. "However we need Abbey and Carissa around and hopefully our confrontation with the Kenosha. What do you think Bryn?"

Bryn was somehow playing with his food and ignored Marik. It's not that he didn't know the plans but he lost interest in the mission.

"I'm waiting, Bryn!" Marik slammed the fork on the plate.

"Sir… you do all the planning, I will just tag along…" Bryn shrugged again and that wasn't what Marik wants.

"I need a moment with you Bryn…" Marik stood up as he used his Millennium Rod to control Bryn in doing the same thing. Marik pulled him aside since his lunch was already finished.

"Master Marik I am just a boy who does cool stuff with the computer…" Bryn explained what he feels about his role.

Marik crouched down and grinned, he was willing to listen this time. He took Bryn's little hands and rubbed his frozen hands. "When you feel out of place, I'm here to counsel you. If you feel lonely and unworthy I am the one that tells you otherwise that you are not. If you think I'm too lenient on you… ever…"

"See? I'm ninth rank serving the boss directly as the youngest. I have no time to settle down in my life as-"

"I can't promote you if that is what you want now, Bryn. Hence I need you to work with me to prove your ranks." Marik shook his head as his tan fingers lift Bryn's chin up.

"I didn't say I want promotion now."

"You implied that your rank is too low so I presumed that was what you wanted. So earlier I was asking about Abbey and Carissa's presence, now I value your opinion." Marik was patient as he could see Bryn contemplate on the subject. Then Marik chuckled, " And don't say it's all my decision, I'm only giving you a say in their welfare."

"I eeeerrm… I think uh… I… don't know…"

Marik was growing impatient with his stuttering, maybe he should teach Bryn to answer on the spot. "Heh… I'm surrounded by stutterers, Bryn you have time to think, don't rush."

Bryn quickly shut his mouth and smiled nervously. Soon Bryn has an idea but he'd rather discuss it with Marik first.

"Abbey and Oliver can be together, but they are back up and Carissa can be with Bailey and Jung Yoon also as a backup. Since they will be coming to aid us, I think they can help us when called. So it's still you, Odion and I." Bryn was again nervous to complete the suggestion but he was glad he did not stutter. It appeared as though Marik was going to say 'Aww', so Bryn grinned widely.

"That's a fair idea, except this race does not only involve Kenosha and Rare Hunters but many more organisations. Perhaps you should reconsider the backup team. If we divide our team too sparingly we will lose. If we cluster all our team without a trace of backup, we will also lose." Marik circled his finger on his palm.

"How many people are in our ranks?"

"Eighty-two present in Europe including the people we brought with us."

"Oh shit…" Bryn accidentally blurts out.

"Watch your mouth!" Marik directed him to the water fountain. "We sit and discuss this so that you're not lost."

"You already know the answer right?"

"Incorrect." Marik surprised Bryn.

"How—"

"I know my strengths but not of the other organization, besides I could use more mind slaves," Marik said too casually.

"I'm a purple Octopus, tag, you're it!" Bryn randomly said something and he waved his arms.

"What are you talking about?"

"At school, we used to play a game of Octopus tag where we accumulate allegiance. As people run towards their destination, the people who were already the perpetrators try to catch people to be on their team. We've been doing it all along! Recruiting people and helping people to help us." Bryn giggled again.

"Hmm... I see, so theoretically we turn our opponents into 'purple octopuses'. But I can't recruit people while running the race, undoubtedly! Unless they seal an allegiance and then I recruit them as Rare Hunters. And surely we will be precocious over Kenosha."

"Then all the 'Purple Octopuses' and allegiance fight for you but we may lose some valuable stuff…"

"Like what?" Marik tried to decipher Bryn's train of thought.

"Some old friends…" Bryn glumly identified the danger in the mission.

"Bryn you can only trust me, not the others," Marik warned him.

"Why can't I trust Abbey?" Bryn asked innocently.

Marik sighed; this boy was drilling his head in. The blonde lowered his tone with cautionary intertwined with virtuousness; Marik revised his role to Bryn. "We win some, we lose some. Heed my words Bryn; Rare Hunter isn't some kind of Boy Scouts with bubbles of the grand finale and living happily ever after. It is my organization; my society where I decide who lives or die."

"But I don't wanna lose you Master Blonde Purply Mariky Oct O'Mighty…" Bryn clasped his hands together and leaned on him. Marik chuckled as Bryn came up with the strangest nicknames.

"Who knows, my everlasting reign as your Master could grant you many successful career paths. You're staring at greatness himself..." He was flattering himself.

"How about who farts and who doesn't?" Wind bypasses from Bryn's butt and Marik stared until he realised he needed to walk away from Bryn because of the stench. Marik fanned his nose with disgust as the boy was embarrassed and amused at the event unfolded.

Marik chuckled as Bryn got up and started to fan his butt. This boy was amusing to watch. As he watches from afar Emet had already arrived. Perhaps he should employ Emet.

"Hello, Sir boss… I have good news about today, the airport in Berlin is shut temporarily because of the worker's strike." Emet said to Marik.

Marik laughed evilly and sometimes Bryn wish he'd know how to do that without choking, "How convenient! I was beginning to think they have given up due to my intimidation."

"You got kicked twice, Master…" Bryn muttered.

"No, I didn't!" Marik snapped at Bryn I'm an attempt to deny being defeated physically.

"T-t-the b-bad n-news is, the c-c-crazy l-l-l-l-lady 'Spawny' Ebony that lend us the plane is u-u-un-uncontactable." Emet was scared of Marik as he told him the girl had vanished. Marik kept rubbing his Millennium Rod as he shook his head mockingly as he stared at the ground.

"If only it was fake news… I really would enjoy making someone scream in misery." Marik rolled his eyes.

"By the way Emet, Namu doesn't like stutters." Bryn winked at Emet.

"Boys, you ought to know that I know where she is. She is just retreating to rest instead of finding a significant other but who knows if they will ever reunite. So… we go explore Berlin a little more..." Marik must have contacted her through his Millennium Rod.

England was experiencing a heavy downpour and the runway was shut as the workers were carrying megaphones and signs while they were demonstrating their indignation from the wages. A little over 6pm the pilot had already announced their predicament about the issues regarding their underpaid staff.

Umbrella formed a mosaic below the runway as the demonstration proceeded. Passengers were on the verge of doing their own protests but not for Clara. She was ignoring all the hype and some used her. An example to not be too anxious. Above all, the other flights have it much worse.

She couldn't stop thinking about Hugh and her past. She loves that man from top to bottom and inside out. They used to do things simple couples do and won't mind it if they were lame. He didn't have to watch Karate Kid on their year of graduation. He also didn't ask further about her daily structure or about her father till this day, she was only just relieved to tell him as much as he needed. As to why her father left her mom she swore when she got her answers, it would only be her journey not involving her kids.

Clara sat with the newspaper on the plane was delayed. She didn't sit next to Eon, that boy makes her skin crawl. Then she received a text message from an anonymous sender, it was definitely no encryption whatsoever and even if there was it only said 'Angel of Val'.

"Well anon…" she shits her phone again. Joe disappointing was her house spent. The airhostesses were busy preparing dinner cart and deafening wails of babies.

Seventeen Years Ago

When Clara moved out with Hugh, she also played on the orchestral as a harpist. She was fast with her reading reflexes and could memorize all the notes. Amanda was too far to contact nowadays. She performed with Hugh who was on the classical flute.

Soon, the audience clapped as the stage curtain was folded back. As they will perform Amadeus Mozart's 'Concerto in C Major', Hugh saw his girlfriend feeling nervous. The way she bites her nails whilst reading the notes was charming. She was wearing her silver rhinestone dress and earring.

The audience was mixed with attentive and docile listeners but well dressed. The conductor Graham Lars was an old composer at his best.

Clara was relaxed as she strummed her harp. It brought her to a whole different world. She enjoyed listening to the music that irrevocably helps her meditate.

After the concern, the orchestral team bowed and that was the end of the performance. As they walked off stage, Hugh was sharing with a violinist who was hugging him. Hugh pulled away and gave her a peck on the chick. As Clara saw what had happened, she turned around and started chatting to Graham.

" I guess we'll have to wait until next year," Graham said.

"Indeed I would be honoured to play for Symphony. Are you touring to Europe by any chance?" Clara asked.

"Most likely if your mom allowed me." Graham reminded her that he had been dating her mother for quite some time. Clara was a little uneasy with the idea but she had to respect her mom's happiness.

"True true… I will be looking for a job soon… any suggestions?"

"You could work with the new café at Mirages. My niece owns that place and they have the best Montreal Bagels." Graham offered. He offered his nieces business card to Clara.

As she saw the name was Fena Whiteley and Mandy Whiteley Jenkins. They are sisters after all. "I actually know them…"

"Perfect, then you won't have a problem meeting them." Then another orchestral member bud in to greet the conductor. Clara smithed packed her belongings into her Louis Vuitton black handbag and slung it over her shoulders.

Hugh tapped her shoulder and pecked her lips. "Should we go for a walk?" Hugh asked her.

"Yes about time!" Clara was as agitated and walked in front of him.

As they both walked to the wharf, Hugh tried to catch up to her. She sure could walk fast with high heels. As he caught up to her, he grabbed her and asked her, "What's wrong Clara?"

"What's wrong? I'll tell you what's wrong! You were all nice and fuzzy towards the violinist while I'm trying to look for a job and by the time I find one, it is Amanda's Uncle who is the conductor who happens to date, my mom!"

"Look Clara it isn't what you think babe."

"Then what is?" Clara spat. "I need to go to Nepal… you should come with me for 2 weeks."

"Why?" Hugh was really puzzled.

"Well, I need to do some soul searching. And obviously, I get jealous easily so I need you to sort out a few things with me before I agree to marry you. I mean who knows when you will propose and all." Clara was speaking her mind and now Hugh was feeling awkward around her because tonight was meant to be the night. He then fished out a small paper bag and in it was the ring.

"Today…? Hmm, you're supposed to kneel but I hate that idea." Clara chuckled. Hugh did it anyway and slip the ring.

"This is not how I planned it but I wanna spend the rest of my life with you and raise special children," Hugh said.

Clara rolled her eyes to the cliché of engagements. "Aye, I wanna be part of that!" Hugh spun her around.

Approaching Sixteen Years Ago

Clara only sighed the marriage papers without a wedding. She hated spending so much on the ceremony. She stayed in Nepal longer than she wanted to. She felt safe and all the more, Hugh and she spends most of the nights in the temple praying. Hugh was used to his Presbyterian beliefs but he married someone with the Buddhist faith.

She started helping even the temples, villages and churches with music and connecting to the internet with Hugh by her side. Some of the villages were fascinated about Hugh as he was rather paler in the skin and spoke in a peculiar accent. He also introduced Uilleann pipes to them and some Irish culture.

One day, she kept vomiting as she was in the temple. The monks offered her some remedy as they chanted something to ease the sickness. Hugh was out of town as he was shopping in the city capital. Clara then felt dizzy knowing that she needed to recover. Soon one of the nuns helped her and noticed that she was pregnant.

"Chitra, you are having a baby soon." The nun patted a warm cloth on her head.

"But I just got married! Stop calling me Chitra..." Clara was shocked by the claims. She took a long breath as she realised it was July and she will have the baby in Toronto by the time the is due around April.

"Yes ma'am, we also offered disciplinary for the next generation as part of the Drukpa Order." The nun said trying to persuade her with something.

"I have another home in Toronto, I will do the disciplining… I have enough stress thinking about my life there." Clara said but groaned as started finding something from her bag to spray the incense away.

"Monk Do Kadesh is already retired so he won't be able to continue helping foreigners." Thanks to Sister Bilhana, she had always been like Clara's godmother.

"Sister Bilhana, I have a question to ask you." Clara felt miserable.

"What is it?"

"Who is my father?" Clara asked.

"Clara, I don't know dear. As much as I want to figure out what I will become in my next life. I have always wanted to be a princess." Sister Bilhana was trying to joke. Clara sighed as she wanted to track her father for such a long time.

"I also have a dream, it was pretty scary at first."

"What is the place you've experienced?" The nun asked.

"It was really a dark place at first, like pitch black and peaceful. I was standing underneath a bridge and there were Viking like people there that looked happy in the outside but sad within. Then there was a stairwell much like heaven but when I reached the end, there was an ominous gate that was towering like a tree. There weren't any buildings but when I entered the gates, it brought me to a fight. Then I fought one soldier after another. After slaying them they still come back. Soon I joined the gods in something like a Ragnarok as I have wings."

The nun was speechless as though she has gone insane. It was a pretty sick dream to be in a specific place.

"When I told Hugh, he said it was Valhalla." Clara finally said.

"You think it is a calling of something spiritual but I think it is symbolic. To interpret that dream is not hard but you need one that can interpret correctly. Next week, there will be some people leaving the temple for an annual homage to the chosen Dalai Lama. You're in time for the celebration."

"Are the Drukpa sister's going there?"

"Yes, the Gyalwa Dok Hampa and us Gyalwang Drukpa will be attending but a few have joined the Kenosha group, unfortunately." The nun said in disappointment.

"Who are the Kenosha? They aren't from around here, I know." Clara asked sceptically.

"If I say it out I will be in trouble…"

"Well, who are they? Are they gangsters?" Clara was so worried and she was proven that she was right when the nun nodded.

"Listen, we are being exploited by the newly for criminal group. I can only take care of this temple and maintain peace here." Bilhana kept a small treasure box, as she handed to Clara, she unlocked the box with photos of the missing nuns and monks.

"Then they are the ones that never returned after the Yatras ride to Pokhara! Including Illy... I mean I read about it and they said it was a gang that ambush the riders." Clara remembered.

"It's too dangerous Chitra, you can't free them…" Bilhana told Clara desperately.

"Who says it's only going to be me. I will make my team..." Clara rubbed her stomach.

"So you're not doing it now?" Bilhana asked.

"I will join Kenosha to free our people, Bilhana," Clara smirked.

An audible yawn came out of the little Irish boy's mouth as he was pushing the trolley in a grocery shop. The TS Food Supermarket was something Marik chose instead of the Asian Mekong even if Bryn wanted to get something. Marik strolled tossing whatever he found useful including paracetamol, aspirin, toothbrushes, cereal, apples, oranges, avocado, towels, body lotion, deodorant, salt, spinach and the list goes on.

Then he placed another part of the shopping cart with the specific ingredients. Olive oil, cauliflower, butternut squash, raisins, shallots, Garlic, ginger, hot pickled peppers, like jalapeño, seeded, skinned, and turmeric, mild curry powder, red pepper flakes, Salt and pepper, coconut milk, chickpeas, lime juice and flat-leaf parsley. Marik stood there directing Bryn to turn but the little boy just stared at him.

"What?" Bryn then at the cart that was hard to push now. Bryn was bored as he watched his Master place anything in the cart. As they reached the end of the dairy aisle, Bryn was craving for cheese and crackers.

He stopped pushing the cart as he stopped at the frozen aisle of the dairy section. "Why did you stop?" Marik questioned him as he pointed at the cart.

Bryn pouted, "I'm kinda craving for cheese…"

"And you want me to purchase cheese for you…?" Marik furrowed his eyebrows.

"Do you allow me to?" Bryn asked innocently.

"I have tonight sorted in terms of food and supplies. Your craving is not my problem and your shopping preference is a definite turn off. Asian Mekong, Are you kidding me?" Marik was really annoyed.

"I promise that it is the only thing I want to get Master Marik…" Bryn's eyes went watery.

"You'll need probiotics and don't blame me if you get a stomach ache." Marik opened the fridge. "Which cheese, Brie, Camembert, Gouda, Mozzarella or Harvati?"

Bryn's face brightened. "Brie please!" Bryn jumped for joy as the cheese made it to the cart. "Woohoo!" Marik was really good with aiming his shot. Marik counted the groceries and noticed Odion could pay instead.

"I need Odion to pay…" Marik scanned his surroundings to check where his brother had gone.

"Hey move it kid", a group of teenagers pushed Bryn. Marik turned back as Bryn was on the floor. Marik growled as the older teens were laughing at Bryn.

"Is the blondy your girlfriend?" One of them said as they looked at Marik. Marik then smirked as the boys were the ones he wanted to recruit.

"You boys are looking for something useful to do." Marik reached or his Millennium Rod. Then one of the boys laughed.

"We just want to have fun." As he foolishly pushed Marik but Marik remained calm and sturdy.

"Fun, then I assure you I want that just as much as you." Marik chuckled as he brought his Millennium Rod to his chest.

"What the hell, I can't move!" The Jacob was terrified as he couldn't move. Marik prowled around them as he turned to the one that pushed Bryn over. Marik approached the teen as he did something to make his movements go out of control.

"Bryn, show then you can't be trifled with," Marik smirked. So Bryn got up and did a tiger fist on them.

Soon he made the two run to each other and bump heads with one another. "So you want fun, but I do it better." Marik sadistically chuckled. Then Odion came and joined Marik by his side. He really did scare those goons. "Roger and Jacob… the boy you pushed over is as dangerous as me. However, he will spare your pathetic lives, because I still need you to do my bidding." Marik found their identity in an instant which mortified them.

"W-We're s-sorry for pushing over the young boy!" Jacob pleaded to Marik.

"Odion, take these two to the arriving headquarters and the cart with you. I expect our team will be arriving soon. They are now my Rare Hunters."

Once Marik and Bryn reached the hotel, Marik went to the multifunctional kitchen and there their groceries were there. Marik pulled out a recipe from his phone and started pulling out the ingredients for a vegetarian stew.

"I feel like cooking today, Bryn…" Marik smiled.

"Really Master Marik? Do you need help?" Bryn was confused with Marik's abnormal thought of doing things himself.

"No Bryn, you should rest as I want to make something for once. I will call you down for dinner once I am finished." Marik looked stressed, perhaps cooking is the way to relieve his stress. Marik was tired as well but he didn't need to race yet.

"Oh, mkay Master Marik. By the way, I had fun today." Marik's little Rare Hunter was sometimes too adorable.

"Most welcome little Bryn." Marik smiled weakly. And he watched Bryn skip out of the kitchen whistling.

He took the card Bryn drew him from the photo of him on his throne. He loved it, even if it was ridiculous, part of Marik wished he drew something as crazy as Bryn. The third card, it was a copy of an Egyptian God Card, the Winged Dragon of Ra. Wherever those real ones is, he will obtain it sooner or later.

"Great beast of the sky, please hear my cry.

Transform thyself from the orb of light and bring me victory in this fight.

Envelop the desert with your glow and cast your rage upon my foe.

Unlock your powers deep within so that together we may win.

Appear in this Shadow Game as I call your name,

Winged Dragon of Ra!"

As he read it in his mind, he remembered he had to memorise it in two minutes before his late father came in to hound him for not studying the scriptures. He remembered it so well; he wished he were the one that sent his father to the Shadow Realm instead of the Pharaoh, Yami.

Marik finished in the kitchen and everything was made perfect just for once for himself. He needed to prove that he was capable of making even good food when his servants are not here with him. He then saw a large truck parking outside. It must be his people. He then picked up his Millennium Rod.

"Bryn, dinner is ready and let your family and friends know. To come down..." Marik had never hosted something for Bryn. He then heard a loud strum of an Electric guitar in the function room and so he frowned. That was meant to be their function room for the upcoming meeting.

Bryn saw his long-time friends Carissa, Bailey, Jun Yoon enter with Abbey as he strummed again and went over to hug them. He was excited to see them and he ran to them.

"Oh, my Gawd! We're really meeting up for real!" Bryn hugged Abbey first.

"Uh, don't you need to pack 'cos we are having a meeting after dinner." Jun Yoon pointed out as there were more Rare Hunters entering, Oliver and Rivah were wheeling in especially Marik's heavy throne.

"Oh…" Bryn glanced at the golden throne and then saw Marik standing at the doorway. "Master Marik, I-I didn't know we're having a meeting."

Marik rolled his eyes as he grabbed Bryn's guitar and placed it on the stand. "Of course you didn't know because I have been resting." Marik was rather calm.

"Master I did hear your call but was in the zone of playing my guitar earlier," Bryn said apologetically.

Marik sighed again, "Whatever please join me for dinner." He called from behind. A dining table was also being wheeled in large enough for all of them to fit.

"Master Marik, are you okay?" Bryn was wondering why Marik's demeanour was so calm. Odion then walked to join the dinner that Marik had prepared on a cart.

"I'm famished, let's end it there." The Egyptian teen pulled Bryn to the table and let him sit with whoever he wanted. Marik sat in one of the ends.

There were salads as well, vegetable soups, his cauliflower curry, fruit salad and so on. Bryn was so chatty the whole time to his friends and family but not Marik. That made sense to Marik, Bryn was missing them and being homesick could jeopardize their mission.

"Odion, where is my slave Farrah?" Marik suddenly asked. Everyone was suddenly silent.

"She is here, sir. She is tied up in the truck." Marik's sadistic smile returned.

"Excellent, then we leave some food scraps for her." Marik was please as the rest of the Rare Hunters were outside while he was able to execute this exclusive dinner. Bryn pushed his chair back with a scrape of the ground and wiped his mouth cautiously as Marik glared at him.

Then he quickly sat back down as Marik narrowed his eyes. The meal was satisfying. "Thank our Master Marik for preparing the meal. He is always worthy of praise." Odion said.

"Thanks be to our Master Marik! It's an honour to be served today. "Bryn chimed. Marik smiled as his youngest Rare Hunter did so.

"Bring Farah to my hotel room, I need a massage. Also, I will commence the meeting tomorrow at 5am sharp. If anyone fails to attend, there will be severe consequences." Marik announced.

Marik lay on his massage table as the tiny little slave girl reluctantly stepped towards Marik. She was afraid of the Egyptian teen as he finds pleasure in her anguish.

"It's a shame you don't enjoy my company, little fool. I need you to massage me until I fall asleep." Marik smirked mockingly. "But I doubt you can even succeed in this simple task."

"I-I" She stuttered.

"Come, at least help me maintain my good mood." Marik just wanted a day of rest. She stilled bit Marik took control of her as he was always holding his Millennium Rod. She rubbed the oil in Marik's back. Just what he wanted all day, he watched her unkempt hair swaying.

"Master Mma—Marik How was your d-day?" Farah took the courage to ask.

"Well, you are quite bold to ask that question. I have been well. By the looks of you, you aren't well as usual. The pale ungrateful child that you are." His words were like darts. She said nothing as she continued kneeling his back. Then he heard Odion enter from the door with some of their belongings.

"Master Marik these are the reports from the past few days." Odion kneeled hoping he didn't catch his brother in a wrong time.

Marik growled as it was not the right time. He lifted himself off the table and signalled for Farah to stop. He got his purple cloak.

"Must I repeat that I do not want to be disturbed today?" GET OUT!" Marik's piercing voices reached the hallway. Bryn peeked from the outside as he was wearing his pyjamas. Marik caught Bryn but Bryn quickly ran off. Odion did so too.

Marik got a small tub of water and cloth and placed it beside Farah. He placed a few drops of scented oil in the warm water. "Now Farah, if you ever wish to be free as my little pet, I will make your life a living hell." Marik pulled out a human collar and secured it to her neck with chains like a dog. "On your knees!" He casually kicked her in reminding her she is beneath him. The girl was obedient and hoped Marik's wrath did not turn against her. "Wash my feet and kiss then too my little pathetic pet!"

"Yes, Master Marik," Farah responded dolefully as she began doing something humiliating.

Marik took the papers and skimmed through the reports. More about Valkyrias Mages, those buffoons are pathetic. His Rare Hunters were effective. Rivah was very specific and careful in all his reports. He was wise and his favourite to work with. He flipped again and Oliver's report was just in points. That annoyed him, as anything can be overlooked. Hugh is safe and sent back to Industrial Illusions. Actually, that was crossed out. He was sent to here in Berlin, the very hotel they are staying at. He also read a bracketed message, Oliver is looking after Hugh's welfare. The two boys Jun Yoon and Bailey helped out so he didn't expect them to write anything. Then there was a small notebook As he looked into it was Bryn's technological advancements he had been working on but why is it in this pile. As he looked into it there was a photo of Bryn and his friends and family in Nepal. Another he spotted was it was going to be sent as a postcard to none other than Monk Phi Long.

She wrote:

Hello Dear Teacher PL,

I have something to talk to you about. Do you know anything about the C.R? Can they be trusted? I met a tall guy and he said I will be meeting the most important Leader. I guess Bryn and I need a job cos' I don't go to school anymore. I know there are other schools but I can't afford to meet new people. I have been meditating but these days it doesn't work for me as well as Bryn.

Yours Kindly,

Abigail Leigh.

Marik did not as he had just read. The two Harkin siblings looked up to the Monk. He knew as he recruited the two, some degree of betrayal would happen. He checked how Farah was cleaning his feet. "Kiss them now!" The girl whimpered. He pulled her locks and shoved his foot down the girl's throat. The girl gagged as Marik. "I said worship me!"

Then Marik heard the two chatting from outside. "...I don't know, if my mom has arrived it means we can have a short reunion."

"Depends on the mission Mr Bryn, I can only grant you certain missions but Master Marik can grant all," Odion explained.

"Master Marik doesn't wanna talk right now," Bryn said.

"Shouldn't you be asleep by now? It will be a long day tomorrow." Odion said.

"Bryn, what did you want to see me about?" Marik yelled. Bryn peeked at the door and pointed.

"Why is Farah trying to eat your 'foot'?" Bryn closed his eyes.

Marik pulled Farah away, "Who said she is eating my foot, she is cleaning them. And it's not why your here to see me, what did you want to ask me about?"

"My dad, he is safe right?" Bryn's concerned look was evident as he hesitated to ask.

"Yes he is Bryn, but you may see him only when your mother is out if the Kenosha. He must not know her place in the Kenosha, understand?" The Egyptian teen instructed him.

Bryn nodded and smiled, "Understood sir. So uh, yeah that's all."

"You should rest now, spend time with your friends before we race again."

"Sure well, aye! Goodnight sir."

"Goodnight Bryn."

The next morning, Bryn check the time and it was five past five. He then panicked and he hurriedly grabbed his Rare Hunter garb. He went down and noticed the door was shut. He could feel the Shadows creeping up his back. Luckily Oliver was at the door and he opened it.

"Why were you, late mate?" Oliver asked Bryn.

"Overslept bro, won't happen again," Bryn whispered.

"Well, Master Marik already noticed but he hadn't addressed it yet," Oliver said.

Marik was trading his reports and dealing with successful ones today. He had the failed pile on the left side.

"Some of you have dealt with my current missions successfully and I wanted to congratulate Rivah and Oliver. Had it not been two of your efforts, Mr Harkin would still be in the hands of the Valkyria Mage." The two stepped up to the centre of the meeting.

"Other successful teams, in the marketing sector, you have sold over 60 000 € worth of cards. I'm impressed by this short amount of time. I would like you to meet your new trading partner Mrs Helene Alderweise." The woman stepped into the light with a black veil. The audience weakly gave them a round of applause.

"Now we have Hayley as our transport assistant, now these ladies are not Rare Hunters but they play an important part in our alliance. Treat them well." Marik then shifted his attention to Roger and Jacob, the newly hired Rare Hunters. They were scared stiff when Marik used his Millennium Rod to make them kneel. He brought another two Rare Hunters that were already there among the audience.

"With little time, I will send Clyde and Jordan a task to monitor my new Rare Hunters. We now will skip the assessment until we have finished our mission." Marik said.

For the failed pile he had excused the people previously. Garnet was someone that was deemed incompetent for a while now. He lost two briefcases full of worthy cards. He stood up shaking his head as he left his throne and surveyed each member. "Bruce, you weren't assigned so you're excused." He saw Oliver, Bryn, Rivah and Odion standing together, "Bryn I knew were late today…" He narrowed his eyes.

"Sorry…" Bryn looked guilty.

"I will deal with you later," Marik said as he held a familiar notebook. Bryn's eyes widened as he was looking for that. As he continued with searching for Garnet he was a middle-aged man with a long ginger beard. He walked straight to his throne and a light gleamed and Odion and Rivah then walked to Garnet and seized the Rare Hunter. Marik read again but out loud.

"'Misplaced a briefcase during shipping' that is very foolish of you to misplace one. 'Authorities obtained the second', what a disappointment Garnet. Would you be able to retrieve them if it fell off a bridge?" Marik laughed wickedly.

Garnet didn't say a thing as Odion forced him to go on his knees. Marik knew Garnet was honest in his report, they had to be. He could see the man trembling as he awaits his own demise. Marik's hand tightened as this was not a blunder he wanted to read about.

"What a shame, that you don't recall to write that you traded the finest rare cards for the fake ones?" Marik read further and smirked as he would now toy with his mind. Then Garnet hallucinated when his limbs went missing, replaced with amputated limbs.

Garnet started to scream. "WHERE ARE MY LIMBS, AHHH."

"I must be in the briefcases that you lost, they are thrown over the bridge, won't you get them?" Marik said with false sympathy and chuckled again. Garnet screamed more as the hallucination overcame his sanity.

Bryn hid behind Oliver as this was one of the things Marik loves to do. He was late and in Marik's bad list so all the more he is in trouble. Perhaps going to the Shadow Realm is not too bad. That's where he usually send Rare Hunters when they fail.

"Farewell, now you pathetic fool!" Marik finally said, "You will go to the Shadow Realm!"

He then picked up Bryn's notebook and a photo that Abbey was going to send to Monk Phi Long. Bryn quickly came to the centre of the room behind Garnet's body and kneeled volunteering as he needed to clear this up with Marik.

"Bryn… I don't believe this was meant to be in the failed pile. Did you accidentally leave your report in your room and if you did, you didn't need to write one either." Marik laughed.

"Odion was rushing me actually sure because I told him I would show him how to work a CCTV without a battery. The photo currently in your mighty hand, Master Marik, is just Abbey's concern when we first heard about you and this organisation and we mean no harm. Also, I'm happy to go to the Shadow Realm for five min-"

Marik walked over to Bryn and handed him his notebook and photo back. "It's in the fail pile so you failed and it means I failed as well because I'm currently in your mission." Whispering in Bryn's ear was something he had to do.

"Pretend you are under my Millennium Rod's control and lose your mind in the Shadow Realm." Marik whispered, "Then you count to five minutes when I said 'Rise'.

"Okay…"

Marik rolled his eyes as he realised how ridiculous it is. He is mocking his own system. "Actually I will just correct the situation, come stand by my side." Marik took Bryn's hand and led him to the throne.

"I apologized Master Marik and Bryn, I should have checked with Bryn before the report submission." Odion bowed.

"It is not a report Odion, Bryn had other tasks and when he does, I will be the one writing it," Marik explained.

"Yes, Master Marik."

"Davion, a successful report also in the fail pile. I think Odion we have to assess them separately at different times. There is also Salem's report about purchasing of shares in the successful pile and to me, that is just news of progression and not a report of success." Marik finally remedied the situation.

"Master Marik, I have a word about Justus in Tüchersfeld." Bailey finally bowed.

"Bailey?" Bryn was overwhelmed as he reunited with his closest friends.

"Partly mine and mostly Bryn's effort Sir. I know my country resourcefully so I can aid Bryn in locating the goal."

"We will fly again to Tüchersfeld." Marik gestured to Hayley.

"No problem." She purred. "I've got just the right vessel for the big block of a throne."

"We're moving again?" Bryn asked.

Meanwhile, Marik dismissed them and asked Rivah and Odion to rid the body of Garnet in hydrofluoric acid. He was pleased that today the Rare Hunters were helping him earnestly.

Eon saw his surroundings as he stepped off the aeroplane. Clara really didn't like Eon so she stayed far away from him. They are finally in Frankfurt. He had a tracker where he knew exactly where to find the Rare Hunters so both Monk Phi Long and Clara followed him.

Eon took the cab waiting for the other two to join him. "Tüchersfeld!"

The driver nodded and with the two hours of driving Clara imagined reuniting with the lost nuns, Illy, her children and Hugh.

"It's not long until we grow the Kenosha with the newly instituted Justus. What I would love to see is my students come to the right side." The monk said.

An aeroplane landed not long ago. Clara saw no one was on the plane. Tüchersfeld was beautiful, so must be just the influx of tourists. "She took a photo of the scenery as she could remember the place without a map. "Chitra I bet your children have surpassed black belt. What kind of teacher are you to leave them for a pathetic job for Duel Monsters." Eon mocked her.

"They need to learn mercifulness before they could obtain the black belt. Although the tone of the belt does not determine how great of a fighter you are, it is your heart." Clara calmly said. She was annoyed but she kept it in.

"Haha, very well, in that case, I will be the Justus again and not Bryn." Eon unremorsefully said. That brat Eon was making Clara's bloodstream boil.

When the car stopped, Eon got off the taxicab and looked at Clara. "You should pay for the cab…" Monk Phi Long also followed Eon. However, Clara stayed as she wanted to check the massive private jet. Clara's had a premonition as she climbed the stairs of the aeroplane, the stairs of Valhalla replayed.

She turned the knob and pulled the handle and soon was met with a tall Egyptian man with scars of ancient hieroglyphs on his left side of his face grabbed her by the mouth.

"Mom?" Abbey appeared from her Rare Hunter hood. Odion released her as Abbey confirmed. "Mom!"

Abbey came to Clara and they both hugged. Rivah then said, "How do we know you're not working for the Kenosha?"

"Because I have brought Eon or the Monk with me." Clara appeared to figure they really also an organization that is dangerous but her children chose this organization to work.

"Where is Bryn?" Clara looked around.

"He and our leader had already left to look for Justus. They are in the race." Odion said.

Marik grasped Bryn's wrist and ran, he had to find the real Justus quickly. Bryn was panting as his Master figured out the way. "Master Marik, should we ask someone- I-I", Marik stopped as Bryn felt dizzy.

"We can't afford to fail in finding Justus. You're dehydrating… come on there is a café." Marik was in a hurry as Bryn didn't have time to think. The village was peaceful and quiet. What Marik failed to notice was Bryn couldn't run with all the gadgets in his backpack. If Bryn was navigating, he would know what he needed.

"Two bottles of water," Marik ordered at the counter. The book Emet gave him should help him. The map of Tüchersfeld was there too but if only it was translated to a digital platform. Then Marik took Bryn's backpack and saw his laptop on the Tüchersfeld page.

"You never told me you were working on this map. Make things a lot easier." Marik smirked, as the coordinates associated with the book were exactly the same.

"You never bid for it and I was going to bring it up but you were having a foot porn session with Farah." Bryn earns a death glare from Marik. A bartender with the name of Anyang Suttus gave them a coupon. Marik didn't know why he did that was a letter J.

"You have found me Chasseur Rares. The final line is at the Devil's Cave in Pottenstein."

"You're Justus Tang!" Marik was stunned.

"Indeed I am, go and declare your race there," Justus suggested. "The race is my way of passing in my legacy. Now 8 minute is all you need to take the position." Justus Tang explained.

Soon they were grateful that they were close to the end. Then Bryn heard a burst of familiar laughter and it was Eon. Will Bryn and Marik reach the final line?