Ishizu's Office

[Ishizu Ishtar]

It had been a few days since Ishizu returned to the Cairo Museum of Antiquities, and she could still not find any of the answers she was looking for. She had photocopies of the ancient texts before her scattered across her desk in her office in her attempt to dig up something she might have missed. Ever since hearing rumors of a fourth Egyptian God card she began to wonder why if it indeed did exist why the Ishtar clan was not informed. However, that was not the only thought within her troubled mind. Ishizu also began to wonder why Pegasus did not mention it to her as well. She had so many questions which were only answered by more questions.

I simply do not understand it. Why was my family not told of this so called fourth Egyptian God if we were in fact the Guardians of the Pharaoh? After all it fell upon the first born son of the Ishtar clan to bare the ancient scriptures on their bodies. Within them is the information of the other three gods Slyther the Sky Dragon, Obelisk the Tormentor, and the Winged Dragon of Ra. So why is there nothing mentioned within the hieroglyphs? Unless... Suddenly a thought occurred to Ishizu as she went through every thing in her mind.

”Unless of course there are no truths to these rumors. Afterall if we were not told of them, and if Pegasus did not say a word about creating it for duel monsters either then it does not exist." Immediately Ishizu thought about the ancient prophecy of the Pharaohs return.

Now that I think about it with the current situation as well as everything that has happened with Marik over the years it would have been truly ingenious of them to spread out the information of the Egyptian Gods between families. Our ancestors were probably afraid of one clan having too much power, or that they would use the power for evil. Perhaps it would be a wise idea if I asked Shadi for his council on the matter. If that was true then why is it that my attempt at seeing it with my Sennen Tauk last night failed?

At that moment Ishizu traced her Sennen Tauk with her fingers while her eyes simply stared out the window beside her desk that looked out towards the pyramids of Giza. Could it be that the Sennen Tauk is beginning to deny me its powers? Then she quickly reprimanded herself for ever thinking such a thing, and took on a more determined look on her face.

"No the Sennen Tauk still yields its powers to see the past, and future to me. It predicted correctly when Marik took the Winged Dragon of Ra, and Slyther the Sky Dragon,and it will continue to do so. Just like it predicted that Kaiba will come to Egypt. I must not loose faith in it. These rumors of a fourth Egyptian God card are mere talk started by someone with no knowledge of the ancient scripture." With a more detemined outlook Ishizu organized the photocopied texts, and got up from her chair to exit her office.

"In all honesty an Egyptologist can only gather so much information from a photocopy. It is not the same as looking at it with your very own eyes. Sometimes you could miss something that the camera did not pick up. If the fourth Egyptian God does exist then I will find it. Now I believe it is around the time Kaiba should be arriving at the Cairo Museum"

----> Unearthing The Past

[Kaiba Seto]

Kaiba allowed himself a small smirk as he fell into step behind Ishizu and followed her to the private office. A stranger might not be able to detect it, but Ishizu seemed slightly more terse than usual. Her eyes held their usual steady gaze and her lips appeared relaxed enough but overall, her blank expression seemed a bit forced. Kaiba sincerely hoped his words were the cause of her discomfort. He had a small bone to pick with her. His humiliation from the last visit still needed compensation No matter how temporary the phase, Ishizu had shattered Kaiba’s calm composure. She had forced him to his knees. This indignity would be burned into his memory until the grudge was satisfied. However, revenge was not a priority at the moment. Kaiba’s encounter with the strange lady had granted him an Egyptian God Card. He was temporarily contented. However, if Ishizu insisted on playing more mind games, he would not be so forgiving.

The trio traveled in silence, only the soft click of their heals against the tiled floor making any noise. Kaiba assumed Ishizu was lost in her own occult loving world. As for him...He still wasn’t sure what force possessed him and made him fly to Egypt. Although he had wanted to see Ishizu again, now that she was standing right before him, he was floundering for words. All of his contemptuous questions suddenly seemed flat and meaningless. What could Ishizu possibly tell him? Hadn’t she already shared the entirety of her absurd theories? And why was he here anyways? If her answers were even remotely similar to the explanations she gave in the Domino City Museum, listening would be a complete waste of time. Arguing would be a waste of breath as well. Fanatics were deaf to reason.

Kaiba decided to worry about something more practical than Ishizu’s riddles, the girl. What Kaiba did in his spare time was his own business and no one else’s. He didn’t want Ishizu asking nosy questions about the kid. However, if the girl woke up screaming, questions would definitely follow suit. Unfortunately, depending upon how loud the girl could shriek, Ishizu might not be the only one asking questions.

He really had no further use for the girl. She had been a fleeting amusement and now her purpose had ended. If she stayed longer, she would just cause trouble. As soon as she regained consciousness, Kaiba would inform her that she could leave. He would warn her not to let him catch her again and that would be the end of their meeting. Surely she would jump at the chance to escape without consequence. Then Ishizu could ask about their relationship all she wanted. He would say nothing. In any case, there were more important things to discuss.

Kaiba strode into Ishizu’s office, entering the dismal room just a beat after the owner did. He contemplated setting the girl down in a chair so that her slumber could be more peaceful and so that he wouldn’t be burdened with carrying her anymore. However, in the end he decided to keep a firm grip on her. If she did wake up screaming, Kaiba would want to be close so that he could effortlessly silence her cries for help.

He crudely tapped his foot against the floor, the clamor alerting Ishizu to his growing impatience. There were issues to address and he still had a company to run. They should complete their conversation as soon as possible so that Kaiba could leave this dreaded place and return to work.

[Ishizu Ishtar]

Ishizu led Kaiba down the hallway where only employees, and archaeologist were allowed back to her office. She did not exact enjoy having someone walk behind her, but it was necessary right now. As they continued walking down the hall so many thoughts were running through Ishizu's mind. Obviously she had to ask Kaiba if he knew the rumors of the fourth Egyptian God card.

However, Ishizu also had to ask him his reason for visiting the Cairo Museum of Antiquities. Although the Sennen Tauk gave her the power to view visions of the future it did not give the reason as to why those events occur. Ishizu admitted she was curious as to what exactly was going on in Kaiba's mind at the moment. After all in their last meeting he did deny that everything she had told him was the truth.

Whatever the case may be for his sudden visit I am sure that even after we are done talking that he will still deny his heritage. Perhaps I can also find out the reason for him knocking out the girl.

After a few more paces down the hallway they arrived at Ishizu's office. She turned the doorknob, and led them inside. Once Kaiba was inside she shut the door, and headed for the opposite end of her desk to face him. Ishizu could hear the tapping of his foot on the floor as she took her time preparing things. If she was going to end up having to answer a lot of his questions then she should at least have to proper material in front of her to show him.

Ishizu grabbed two glasses from a drawer in her desk, and set them on top as she closed the door. Then she grabbed a pitcher of water on the top left corner of her desk, and filled the glasses up with water. When she was done she shifted one glass to sit in front of Kaiba, and the other in front of her. Ishizu figured that Kaiba was probably not so used to the desert just yet. If he did not drink the water then perhaps the young girl would.

”I have to say Kaiba that I find your visit to Egypt quite interesting. After all if I remember correctly you did not believe the truths that I told you. Nor did you believe what I showed you was real. Not to mention I am also interested in the reason why you bothered with this stranger you have never seen before. However, that is not the reason for our discussion. I know you came here for a very good reason otherwise you would not have bothered with something you clearly call a fairytale. So if you have anything you wish to ask, or say then please do so now. I assure you no one will here us talk, and that this discussion will only stay between you and I. As well as the young girl if she actually wakes up from that blow you gave her.” When Ishizu was done speaking she sat down in her chair, and gestured for Kaiba to sit if he wanted to in one of the two chairs facing her desk.

[Kaiba Seto]

Kaiba worked hard to refrain from cringing when Ishizu finally began their conversation. He suddenly regretted his impatience. Posed with such a direct question, he found himself unsure of how to proceed. Once again, visiting Egypt seemed like an incredibly dumb idea. What exactly had he expected Ishizu to tell him? His mind flashed to the maid that told him he needed a vacation. A strong urge to fire that woman the moment he returned home temporarily overwhelmed him.

He tried to relax his unusually stiff posture and restore reason. (His movements were subtle. He did not want Ishizu to sense his tension.) This wasn’t the maid’s fault. She had seen that he was on the brink of collapsing. She only insisted that he take a break so that he could recover his strength. The truth was some madness had gripped his mind long before he ever came here. After Kaiba had spoken to Ishizu, despite his disbelief in her stories, he had the greatest compulsion to fly to Egypt and examine more hieroglyphics for himself. He wasn’t satisfied with Ishiz’s incomplete tales. He needed more information if only to prove that her words were complete nonsense. He had overtaxed himself to prevent a trip to Egypt. He seized any excuse to work. The time, the money...Everything was meaningless. All that mattered was keeping his mind busy so that he wouldn’t be haunted by ludicrous queries. His efforts had been in vain. He couldn’t preoccupy his brain forever.

Contemplating his response, Kaiba wearily watched Ishizu fill two glasses with water. He hadn’t realized how thirsty he was until water was forced in front of him. However, in actuality, it was quite humid and Kaiba had not drunk anything since he landed his helicopter in Egypt. He had been so absorbed in his pursuit of ancient artifacts that he hadn’t even considered the issue of hydration. He was tempted to pick up the glass and relieve his thirst but this was a business trip. Kaiba could not allow compromises. Any indulgence was forbidden when he was working. He needed to keep his mind focused on the task at hand. This habit often annoyed his many clients and business partners. They couldn’t understand why he wouldn’t “cut loose a little bit”. Well, their confusion was only fair. He couldn’t comprehend why people would serve themselves distractions on a silver platter when they wanted to accomplish some task. If something was worth doing, it was worth doing efficiently and right. All obstacles needed to be removed. When the girl regained consciousness, she could drink the water.

Kaiba knew that Ishizu expected him to sit down but he remained standing. He preferred to handle this business in an upright position. He was in a foreign area with a strange woman Comfort was not a luxury he could afford. He must prepare himself for Ishizu’s unsettling questions and descriptions.

After a few seconds of silence, Kaiba finally pieced his comment together. Being unable to answer Ishizu’s inquiry about his visit, he decided to begin with a practical question that had been troubling him. Ishizu would not be able to ridicule him for this.

“Ishizu, you may be aware that Kaib Corp has vast resources. Our information network covers the globe. I want to know, have you heard the rumors about a fourth Egyptian God Card?” he asked, voice retaining authoritative confidence. Ishizu was the person who originally owned three God Cards. Certainly she must know something about this rumor. Was it a rumor or was it fact?

Kaiba had no intention of explaining his relationship with the unconscious girl. He was aware this his silence could breed wild theories but he was not obligated to answer any questions. What he did with his spare time was his concern and no one else’s. He doubted he would explain why he came here either. Besides, it would be tough to explain something he himself didn’t completely understand.

[Ishizu Ishtar]

While Ishizu was waiting for Kaiba to find the words for any question he might want to ask she took the glass of water next to her into her hand, and took a sip from it. Although she had spent her entire life in Egypt there were those days when the humidity was a bit too much for her at times.

Then again most of her life was spent under the sands. When she was done Ishizu sat the glass back down on the desk, and turned her attention once again to Kaiba as she still waited patiently.

It did not take Kaiba very long to ask his question to her though. However, the question itself took Ishizu back a bit. Being as composed as she was though Ishizu did not show her shock. She had never expected Kaiba to ask about the rumors of the fourth Egyptian God card.

So he has heard the rumors after all. Perhaps he is just asking about it because he wishes to have it for himself. After all Kaiba constantly insists that he does not believe in what the tablet holds to be true.

"Indeed I am aware of the fact that you have almost all the world's information at your fingertips. To answer you question quite honestly Kaiba I have heard of the rumors of a so called fourth Egyptian God card. However, I do not have any information regarding whether it is true or not." At this point Ishizu got up from her chair, and walked over towards the window to look out towards the landscape of Egypt.

"Pegasus never told me of a fourth Egyptian God card when he gave me Slyther, Obelisk, and Ra." After she finished her last sentence she was silent for a few seconds before turning around to around to face Kaiba.

"I have looked over everything from photocopies to where the Pharaohs tablets were found. Every where I look the search is fruitless. So unless we receive a sign from the Gods themselves, or it actually shows up I will assume it is safe to say it is nothing more than a rumor." Ishizu said as she walked back over towards her desk. As she was making her way over towards it she took a quick glance at the girl to make sure she was at least still breathing.

[Matana]

Matana head hurt rather badly. It confused her that she was in pain as she couldn't remember at the moment what caused it. She had been gradually regaining her awareness of the outside world since being picked up after she had been put down in the hall way.

Her memories were not complete as to how exactly she ended up no longer on her own two feet but she knew instinctively that she was floating or rather being held by someone. But by who, was the most predominate thought in her rather fizzy mind. She did not open her eyes because she was afraid of what or rather who. she would see.

Then she became aware that she heard sounds, voices that seemed familiar to her or at least one did. There was a woman's voice that sounded farther away from herself some how and a man's voice that was much closer and it was his voice she recognized. She ought to know it he spent the better part of a while lecturing her with it. Then it all came back to her in a rush of images her captor, the struggle with him to get loose and lastly blackness. She made a small noise of surprise when she comprehended what they were talking about.

Her captor and an unknown lady were discussing something. She had only caught snippets of their words something about rumors of a god card and a girl. Matana thought she had heard the word fourth in there some where too but couldn't be to sure. She floated in and out of awareness not sure is she was awake or asleep.

Mentally shaking herself she quickly attempted to clear her head and things reason out. Her assumption was that she was being held by her captor simply because his voice was closest. Also that she had changed local because she could not detect other voices aside from the man and woman or any sound at all but them really.

Unknown to Matana she was begin to show signs of waking up. She could hear more of what the lady was saying and understood much of it. it seemed that she was talking in answer to a question put by her captor. Matana supposed now would be a good time as any to make her presence known.

She opened rather blurry eyes with the quiet request of " put me down..please." Her hope was the one who was holding her up wouldn't just drop her. That would hurt more so if she was at any great distance above the ground. Which she thought she was.

[Kaiba Seto]

Kaiba’s thirst grew as he watched Ishizu sip her water. His pride would not allow him to avert his gaze but he did his best to focus his mind on other matters. He wrapped his brain around the concept of a fourth Egyptian God Card. Could such a thing truly exist? If so, why hadn’t Ishizu told him about it? It seemed pointless to withhold information on one God Card if she already discussed the other Three. There were two possibilities. One, Ishizu was completely ignorant to the existence of a fourth God Card if such a card was real. Two, Ishizu needed Kaiba’s help collecting two God Cards but the fourth God Card was the most powerful one of all and she wanted to limit the people that knew about its existence. Perhaps she still had the fourth God Card in her possession and she wasn’t releasing this information because she feared Kaiba would try to steal it or obtain it by force. If this was the case, Kaiba had to admit her fears were well founded. Kaiba had done terrible things in his quest to gain the Blue Eyes White Dragon cards. He had changed. His methods weren’t as severe as they used to be but if he discovered the location of an even more powerful God Card, he would do nearly anything to obtain it. He wouldn’t resort to robbery but he would try to corner Ishizu into a duel where she would be forced to surrender her coveted card if the match ended in his victory.

Still, it was unlikely that Ishizu did have the fourth God Card. If she was so obsessed with maintaining ownership of the cards, she would never have parted with Obelisk the Tormentor. But what if she wasn’t confident in her abilities to regain the other two cards? What if she didn’t think Kaiba’s deck was strong enough to get them back without Obelisk? In such a scenario, she might have pretended there were only three cards to ensure Kaiba’s cooperation without the added complication of him targeting her treasure. Then again, if she had the fourth God Card, would she really need Kaiba’s help to recollect the lost cards? Yes, she might. These rare hunters stole the card from Ishizu. They would be wary of her presence. She wouldn’t be able to draw them out. Only a tournament hosted by an esteemed duelist such as himself could gather enough talented competitors to lure the rare hunters into the open. Yes, it made sense.

Kaiba’s composure collapsed for a fraction of a second and he stared at Ishizu with suspicion. He quickly recovered himself. “I shouldn’t be too hasty. It’s a possibility and nothing more. It’s still more likely that Ishizu speaks the truth. After all, if she was overly worried about the Egyptian Gods she never would have given me Obelisk. For some unknown reason she trusts me. She expects me to return the card. If she enough faith to let me borrow God, she should have no reason to intentionally deceive me,” he reasoned.

Whether Ishizu knew anything about the fourth God Card was now irrelevant. It was clear that if she did have any information she was unwilling to discuss it. So now...what? Onto the next question? Kaiba couldn’t begin to phrase one without sounding like an idiot and he didn’t intend to make a fool of himself.

As Kaiba contemplated where to lead the discussion next, he felt the girl stir in his arms. The movement was barely perceptible but he detected it. He knew the girl was conscious or at least on the brink of consciousness. However, he decided to remain silent. The girl could announce her presence when she was good and ready. This conversation would be next to meaningless to her and he had no inclination to rush things. As soon as she did make some comment, Ishizu would probably ask more annoying questions. He wasn’t looking forward to that.

Finally the girl spoke. Kaiba eased the runt to the ground with a smirk. My, wasn’t the little devil being polite? She must be intimidated to speak with such pleasantries.

“I have no more business with you. You can leave whenever you see fit. If you wish, you can drink some water first,” he offered while pointing towards the glass Ishizu had poured for him. “Don’t let me catch you again,” he said in a mildly threatening tone, utilizing vague words to ensure that the relationship between Kaiba and the girl eluded Ishizu. Ishiz didn’t need to know an inept thief haunted her museum.

[Ishizu Ishtar]

While Ishizu was taking a quick glance over at the limp form of the girl in Kaiba's arms she noticed something. At first she thought it was just her imagination so she decided to take another look at the girl for a bit longer as she arrived at her desk. Ishizu's curiosity was soon rewarded for she saw the girl moving, which meant she was becoming conscious.

Soon enough though after the movement the mysterious girl in Kaiba's arms spook. This is turn caused Ishizu to raise an eyebrow at the calm tone the voice had. She had half expected the girl to start screaming her head off, and act irrationally. However, that was not the case, and it made Ishizu even more curious about the girl. This girl was making a scene earlier out in the museum so why is she not doing the same thing now?

Ishizu's thoughts were interrupted immediately when Kaiba settled the girl onto the ground. She decided to simply stay still, and quiet to observe the scene before her for the moment. After all whatever happened between them earlier needed to be concluded before Kaiba could ask another question if he had one.

Other than that though Ishizu was seeing another side of Kaiba she had not witnessed back at the Domino Museum. The Kaiba she witnessed back at their first meeting was that of a man wanting to be the most powerful duelist in Duel Monsters history. It was the side of a man wanting to excel at being the best at everything he was involved in. Now before her was a different side of the very same human being. It was a more protective side of Kaiba. Perhaps this was the side that only his little brother saw.

It was at this moment that Ishizu decided to step into the scene. With a very calm, and sisterly demeanor she rounded around the left side of her desk, and towards the front to where the girl was. When Ishizu was standing before the girl she picked up the glass filled with water from the desk that was sitting in front of Kaiba.

Then she stepped over towards the girl's right side, and held the glass of water near her hands just in case she wanted something to wet her throat. ”Kaiba I believe our discussion can wait till the girl is fully capable of leaving on her own. After all you did knock her unconscious.”

I cannot risk speaking of the Egyptian God cards in the presence of this girl as long as she is awake. For all we know she could be one of Marik's followers, and I do not want to take that kind of chance. Marik can never succeed in getting all the Egyptian God cards in his hands. For if that were to happen the whole world would be in even more danger that it is at the moment, and I would have lost my brother forever to the shadows. I made a promise to save Marik, and I will not break that promise as long as his mind is still being clouded by the evil half of his mind. I am just thankful to the Gods that Rishid is able to hold the darker side of Marik at bay. Without him Marik would have been lost to the darkness forever the day his evil half sent our father to the shadow realm. Therefore I must not take that risk even if the fourth Egyptian God card is nothing but a rumor. Ishizu said to herself as she calmly waited to see if the strange girl before her would take the glass of water, or not.

[Matana]

Matana stared up at the woman who had offered her water. Scrutinizing her with something more than childish curiosity. she reached up and took the cup that was offered to her and brought it to her lips. Matana sniffed it briefly before deciding it was safe to drink then took a gulp of the liquid it held.

She glanced from one tall figure to the other and back knowing full well how helpless she really was. Matana was apprehensive about this not but from fear. She didn't know the way back to the streets of Cairo, nor did she know for sure where she was. If the two standing nearby wanted to detain her for some reason there was not one little thing she could have done to stop them. but thankfully they didn't seem inclined to that as of yet. Matana hoped they wouldn't be, ever or at least if they were that she would be well out of the city and less traceable by that time.

Truth be told she knew what they had been talking about at least partly. What she didn't know was exactly what they knew or what she was really up against. The spirit who had appointed her didn't tell her who she would be protecting the secret from. So she kept quiet about her knowledge and general she avoided people to keep them from asking weird questions of her. Matana trusted no one and most of all those who are curious about her. She looked up over the rim of the cup she was drinking from to ask her question.

" what is a god card?" Her question was addressed to either of the two older people but she privately didn't think her captor would answer her." Am i really free to leave?" This question was address directly to her captor as she edged warily out of his arms reach. Matana didn't trust him not to make a grab at her..if he had done so before he could very easily do so again." i heard you talk about it and just am curious I've never heard that word before." She wanted to see their reactions.

It was true she hadn't heard it nor the rumor to the fourth god card. Her curiosity was very real, she had the desire to ask what exactly what the rumor they had mentioned was and where they had heard it. Matana did not how ever, as they probable wouldn't tell her any way.

At a safe distance from both she sat down and began to carefully check over her right wrist. it was reddened and hurt when she pressed down slightly but otherwise seemed fine. She could move all ways without to much pain. Then she moved to her head and grimaced. Where the ache was centered she found a good size bump." why did you hit me? you could have let me go, you know."

[Kaiba Seto]

Kaiba smirked after Ishizu’s cutting comment. If this was an attempt to make him feel guilty, Ishizu had failed miserably. Kaiba would crush any opponent as needed. He felt no qualms for those that stood in his way. In this world, one had to look out for their own interests because no one else would.

There was also the possibility that Ishizu’s pointed remark was a tool meant to force Kaiba to reveal the reason for his attack. If this was the case then her efforts were still in vain. Kaiba was not one to be toyed with. People could poke and pry all they wished. Let the masses compose wild theories to their hearts’ content. If Kaiba felt there was no reason to explain his actions, he would remain silent no matter what accusations or insults were hurled at him.

“Hmmm. So Ishizu does not wish to discuss the God Cards in the presence of a stranger. Now why would that be? Even supposing this girl is a spy for the rare hunters, hypothetically speaking, Ishizu shouldn’t be able to provide this person with any new information. The rare hunters already hold the God Cards. They must know everything Ishizu does.

Unless...Perhaps Ishizu has uncovered some clues as to whereabouts of the God Cards. If that’s the situation, she wouldn’t want the rare hunters to know what she knows. Even if that isn’t the scenario, she wouldn’t want her shortcomings to be publicized to the rare hunters.

When dealing with competition, you should never allow the enemy to comprehend your strategies or resources. That will put you at a disadvantage. Always act confident. Act like you know more than you do. A cool composure can unsettle your adversaries and if they’re particularly weak, perhaps make them slip up. Yes, discussing the God Card’s in front of the child is foolish at best and harmful at worst,” he concluded although he still doubted that the girl was a threat.

He wasn’t worried about the runt overhearing snippets of their conversation. By now, a decent percent of the population should be aware of the God Cards’ existence. It’s true that knowledge is power but knowledge alone isn’t enough. Most who knew of the God Card’s were incapable of influencing the situation in any way. Only strong people could successfully hunt the cards down and pry them from the rare hunter’s greedy fingers.

Kaiba gazed at the kid with approval. So she was slightly cautious after all. In this humid weather, most people would have poured the water down their throats before stopping to consider the probability of poison or drugs. Although, the likelihood of a laced drink was slim. The girl was already in their possession. Why bother tampering with toxic substances when the girl was at their mercy?

Well, time could be an issue. Suppose the captors were unsure of how long the girl would remain unconscious and they wished to experiment on her. In that case, they might allow her to regain consciousness just so that they could knock her out more efficiently. Then they could accurately predict the time of revival. It’s always best to err on the side of caution.

“You know that there are plenty of poisons that have neither taste nor smell, right? They’re practically undetectable. Toxicologists have to run specific tests just to confirm that they were used,” Kaiba educated the girl. He debated whether or not to list particular poisons that fell under that category. In the end he decided it against it. It would be best not to let the general public know just how many hours his step-father made him study poisons.

“What is the point of this? I’m being trained to inherit KaibaCorp not to become some toxicologist or doctor. I don’t need this kind of knowledge for the business world,” he had confronted Kaiba Gozaburo.

“Seto, to lose is to die. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Every competition is a fight for your life.” At the time, his younger self hadn’t possessed the courage to ask how many lives Gozaburo had taken. He had only stared into those cold and pitiless eyes with something resembling terror.

To this day, Kaiba still wondered what Gozaburo had done. Did he ever rely on poisons or were they just a backup in case he became desperate? Kaiba had studied old newspapers. He searched online as well. His findings were inconclusive. All he knew was the Gozaburo had never been formally charged with a crime.

As expected, the girl had overheard part of their conversation. After a moment’s hesitation, Kaiba chose to indulge the child. “God Cards are rare and powerful duel monsters cards.” Telling her that much wouldn’t hurt.

“Don’t make me repeat myself. You heard me. I don’t say useless things,” he said with a harsh edge, eyes straying to Ishizu on the last sentence. (No one said more useless things than her. Although, Yuugi did love to babble about the occult as well.) In Kaiba’s mind, one of the worst sins was wasted time. He couldn’t tolerate those that minced words or those that forced him to reiterate himself.

“Might I make a suggestion?” he asked, addressing the girl. He continued before giving her a chance to respond. “When you’re in a precarious situation, it’s best not to be too curious.”

“Why didn’t I let you go? If you need to ask you’re an even worse judge of character than I originally thought,” he said with a disappointed shake of his head.

[Ishizu Ishtar]

When the girl took the cup from her hand Ishizu looked down at her with a slightly raised eyebrow. Ishizu found it interesting, and slightly odd that the young girl before her would do such an act. Did she honestly think that either one of us had poisoned it before giving it to her? Such an odd thing for one of her age to do. This girl must have had a hard, rough life if she suspects of such a devious act.

As soon as Ishizu was satisfied with the girl drinking the water from the glass she stood back up, and rounded back over behind her desk. She felt as if she had done her part in helping the girl out for now. Although she was still curious as to the reason Kaiba would have been speaking to the girl. Perhaps she was merely a guide for him so he wouldn't get lost around the city.

Of course there were plenty of other things Ishizu could think of. However, she did not want to start assuming too much about the matter or get overly curious. After all curiosity was a very dangerous feeling to have in the Ishtar family.

Then Kaiba started to talk to the girl about poisons, and how some are undetectable. At first Ishizu wanted to slap the man for putting the idea into the girls head. The fact that he was trying to say that she would think about poisoning someone, or even let someone slip poison into her water was absurd.

Still Ishizu kept her claim composure, and stayed behind the desk watching him closely to see what else he would say to frighten the poor girl even more. It was not just that thought though that made Ishizu want him to stop, but the fact he seemed to know so much about poisons that was scary. She did not want to know the reason behind such knowledge.

Even though Ishizu did not fully suspect the girl of anything too criminal her mindset changed as soon as the strange girl asked what a god card was. She overheard our conversation? But how? I do not understand she was unconscious. Unless of course she was beginning to awaken in the middle of the discussion. Of course that's the only possible way she could have heard us.

While Ishizu was shocked on the inside she did not let the emotion slip onto the outside of her face. To Kaiba, and the girl it would have appeared as if the question was like a visitor asking Ishizu what each hieroglyph sounded like.

Ishizu was about to answer the girls question regarding God cards when Kaiba beat her to the punch. She was extremely grateful that he did not reveal anymore than that. The Egyptian woman knew that the god cards were common knowledge by now around the world even if you did not play duel monsters. So the question did not ring any alarm bells that the girl before her might be a rare hunter, and she easily see the genuine curiosity within her eyes. That did not remove any suspicion Ishizu had about the girl though. Ishizu was not sure what it was, but she felt a peculiar vibe flowing off the girl like The Nile. It was unclear to her whether or not she should trust the girl just yet.

It was obvious as well though that the young girl did not trust neither one of them as Ishizu watched her go to a chair a fair distance away. Now I know she has had a rough life growing up. It is hard to not be able to trust anyone. To always have eyes behind your back just in case the worst does happen, and to not have anyone too close to you. Yes...I know this feeling all too well with Marik, and his rare hunters. I truly feel sorry for her.

Suddenly though something flashed into Ishizu's mind about what the strange girl had said not too long ago. It was not the words that she used in her speech rather it was the way she spoke them about being able to leave. The possibility of her being Kaiba's guide was now gone from Ishizu's mind. Something was wrong with the picture in front of her, and she wanted to know what it was.

However, now was not the time since Kaiba was not exactly in the mood taking any questions. When he made his comment about saying useless things Ishizu shot a glare shooting venom an Egyptian cobra would be proud of. Now seemed the right time though to interfere with their conversation. ”Perhaps the reason that you have to say such useless things is because knocked her out. For all we know you may have done some damage to her brain without realizing it.”

Of course Ishizu had said all of this while still glaring at him. When she felt he got the point she turned her attention over towards the girl. ”Would you like a bag of ice for your head? I am afraid that Ra is not so forgiving today. The heat may affect your head injury. I think it is best that you stay inside until the pain has subsided a bit for now. Unless of course you feel that you must leave at once then no one will stop you.”

[Matana]

Matana smiled to herself inwardly at the concern the lady was showing her. It was nice, she had to admit that. It spoke volumes about the lady's compassion for others. The male occupant of the room was also showing her things about and lecturing again. He seemed to love to do that, which was a little odd. She had added what he said to her memory, about every thing he had said. It was unlikely that she would get this chance with no consequences again. People were getting weirder almost by the day now.

And now she knew for sure that some groups were looking for the secret she kept hidden. The lady and gentleman for one and there probably were more to come. For where was one or two as rumor got out people would come to search. Thank goodness they hadn't thought to ask her about the secret. But why would they do that she was just a little girl and children weren't likely to know things like that.

Not that she would tell them anything anyway. The worst the gentleman had down to her had not compelled her and he had asked if she had a secret. She had replied in the negative. It really wasn't her secret to tell in any case. The secret she thought belong to the ghost.

Matana would have to think of a way to get more useful information without giving away her own. Her mind was occupied with that and getting out of the room quietly or rather without arousing the lady’s notice. She could just walk through the door but what would help to her if she did that without a 'good-bye or thank-you's' in suspicious manner they would almost certainly call her back. Matana didn't want that if she could help it.

Out wardly it looked like she was staring into space or perhaps in deep thought. which she was but that would probably seem unnatural for a child of her age. the ability to sit still for that long was alomst unheard of for active six year olds. Matana was not like most children her own age so her oddness could be acounted for.

"No thank you, i'm fine ma'm" She dicided to answer Ishizu's question but it came out in a soft murmur as she was only have paying attention to what she said. Shaking herself from her musings she turn to face the gentleman to answer his comment on asking stupid questions " I wished to ensure that the lady would not object." That was all that need to be said on that.

Matana finished the water in one glup as she slipped off the chair she had been sitting on. Carfully walking up to the desk she set the glass upon it. She looked up at Ishzu for a brief moment, meeting her eyes." thank you for the water. "

She turned on her heel and walked as calmly as she could to the door, skirt the standing gentleman as she went. matana still didn't trust him."I'm going to leave now."

"Farewell and I hope you find what you seek." Matana for all her fear did truly wish them a good hunt but knew she had to leave. this last remark was shot over her sholder at the pair still in the room as she walked through the door. she was still walking slowly even as her mind was screaming that she bolt as fast as she could.

[Kaiba Seto]

Kaiba laughed. He was not the type of person to do things in half measures. When he laughed it was always a fairly drawn out sound. People filled with either courage or fear had often said he had a weird laugh. “It’s deep and throaty and...” They always seemed to lose their nerve before finishing the sentence but Kaiba suspected that what they wished to say was dark.

He didn’t blame them. Even to his own ears his laughter had always possessed a dark quality. Not dark enough to sound cruel or menacing but definitely dark. This never bothered Kaiba. If he felt like laughing, why shouldn’t he laugh? He was in a favorable position after years of brain numbing labor. There was no longer a need to hide his true self. Well, most of it anyways.

It was obvious that he was laughing at Ishizu. He made no effort to deceive Ishizu or the little girl. He didn’t act like he was laughing with her. He didn’t pretend that the general situation was amusing. His cold blue eyes rested easily on Ishizu’s face and Kaiba grinned a devil’s grin as the dark, intimidating noise poured out of his mouth and enveloped the room.

So the little girl had been able to repay Kaiba after all. The inconvenience she caused was minimal compared to the benefit of meeting her. The last time Kaiba saw Ishizu, throughout their entire conversation, she had been completely stoic. Challenging Ishizu’s beliefs had done nothing to damage her composure. She was so distant and mysterious. It was as if nothing he said could reach her.

Ishizu wasn’t surprised when Kaiba accepted her request so not even that piece of news stirred her. Kaiba’s not so subtle threat to keep Obelisk for himself once the location of the two other God Cards was known had not phased her. Meanwhile, Kaiba had been brought to his knees thanks to some fake vision. He had struggled to remain complacent but his strife was useless.

Ishizu’s preposterous words about the ancient past and Kaiba’s role as well as Yuugi’s role in it had unsettled him. The hieroglyphs hadn’t helped matters. Kaiba knew there was a possibility that the stone was forged. There was a possibility it wasn’t as old as Ishizu claimed but somehow at the time, the hieroglyphs seemed to confirm her story. It was just a moment of madness, sheer insanity. Looking back on their meeting, Kaiba couldn’t understand how he could have considered her words to be anything more than the babbled ravings of an occult fanatic. His reactions were shameful. Purely shameful.

Ishizu’s venomously glare and rattled voice did not equate to forcing Kaiba to his knees but the mere fact that she shouted was quite remarkable. Any break in her ironclad equanimity was impressive. Ishizu seemed to find any display of emotion disgraceful and Kaiba had unintentionally caused her to express anger. How odd. When he tried to break her composure all efforts were fruitless but by chance they had been placed in a situation where he unwittingly pressured Ishizu into losing her calm demeanor. Of course the girl had been a big help.

“Ishizu, calm down,” Kaiba said in a patronizing tone, eyes trained on Ishizu. Even someone as placid as her was bound to reveal some hint of annoyance when confronted with such painful condescension. “There’s no need to raise your voice or look so upset. As you can see, the girl is fine,” he continued, thoroughly enjoying the Egyptian’s discomfort.

He briefly wondered if he had payed back his humiliation. It was true that the blow he dealt her was far weaker than the one she had dealt him but she had compensated for the insult by offering him an Egyptian God. Nothing could compare to that. Of course Kaiba wasn’t compelled to like the people that granted him favors. In actuality, Kaiba often ended up hating those that offered services. He loathed being in debt to anyone. It made him feel helpless and incapable. He much preferred relying on himself but sometimes using the skills and resources of others was necessary. Now was one such time.

“Hmm...Perhaps the real reason you’re so disgruntled is because you feel guilty. Have your amazing magical powers failed you, Ishizu? I thought you could see everything that would happen but somehow you didn’t predict that this girl would be knocked unconscious. Do you feel bad that you were unable to prevent such an unfortunate occurrence?” he taunted.

He had no qualms about discussing Ishizu’s supposed abilities in front of the little girl. The kid was crazy if she actually believed the woman had supernatural powers. She would be able to discern Kaiba’s sarcasm anyways. The girl would most likely assume that Kaiba was provoking Ishizu in a nonsensical way.

Kaiba’s attention was so focused on Ishizu that he barely noticed the kid’s movements. She was already at the door before his piercing blue eyes swivelled their way back to her face. Something about her seemed odd. What was it? Upon further inspection, Kaiba realized her stance was a bit strained. She was anxious about something.

What could be the problem? Did she feel awkward about leaving? That would make sense. After all, she was in a precarious situation. Perhaps she was nervous because she feared that Kaiba would prevent her escape. No...She seemed more perturbed than the situation deserved. Why? Was it because of Kaiba’s talk of poison? No. If that was the case her fear would have been more immediate.

Kaiba continued to analyze the girl’s behavior. Her pace was abnormally slow, a common trait for a worried person. What was going through her head? What could have agitated her so much? Could it have been their God Card conversation? Besides the poison that was the only other disconcerting topic discussed. Could this girl actually know something about the God Cards? Is that why she questioned them? Did she want to determine how much they knew?

“You’re being paranoid,” Kaiba scolded himself but his admonishing did not settle his disquieted mind. In the past his paranoia had saved him from several bad business deals. He couldn’t afford to ignore the cynic within him. It was unlikely that this girl held any useful information but on the slight chance she did...She needed to be questioned.

Of course Kaiba couldn’t force her to stay but her departure would look suspicious after Kaiba invited her back to the room. If she did know something, she wouldn’t want to arise suspicion so she would return. Kaiba would be able to detect any knowledge she possessed about the Gods with a few precise questions.

No matter how well trained an individual was, when they were placed in a stressful situation, they would without fail expose some piece of what they were trying to protect. It was only a matter of being clever enough to read the hidden meaning in words and small changes in facial expressions. Before the girl was out of sight Kaiba called to her.

“Of course you’re allowed to leave. I promised you that but I was wondering if I could ask you a few more questions. There’s no need to worry. It won’t take long,” Kaiba assured her.

[Matana]

Matana would have cursed at this point if she had known how. It was as she feared and she rapidly was hoping for a mercle to save herself from answering the gentleman. She could not think of a good reason why not to return and answer his questions. Matana did not wish to make emenies for all that she was wary of making friends. Turning slowly as slowly as she had walked out almost. Keeping her head hung low so that they could not see her eyes she passed back into the room.

She turned slowly to face the taller gentleman and crossed her arms. Matana wanted this over quickly and hoped she could just avoid the questions she didn't want to answer. In the dept of her soul however she did not believe that this would be so. She resined her self to a through questioning and hopedto come out on top. "how many questions will you ask,sir."

matana starred at the floor and her own feet while deliberating on many things. She was nervous but buried it deep in where no one would see it or so she hoped. The gentleman seemed to her very smart and did not have a soft heart as some she had meant. Silently she waited on a knife's edge.