Britt Petrova

Olivia leaned forward, her eyes meeting mine. "The Queen within the bracelet... she's your former self. Your memories were locked away to allow you to reunite with your husband again."

I stared at them, trying to process this new revelation. "So, you all know about this?"

Miranda nodded. "We're here to help you, Britt. We've been waiting for this moment. In our past lives, we were your bodyguard court."

I felt a mix of shock and relief. "Why didn't you tell me sooner?"

Nina spoke softly, "We couldn't. There are rules and... timing is everything. But now that you're starting to remember, we can help you more."

As we delved into our research, the hours flew by. We scoured through books on Egyptian mythology, archaeology, and even some obscure texts about magical artifacts. The more we read, the more pieces of the puzzle began to fall into place. However, information about the Queen was surprisingly scarce. It was as if records had been deliberately erased or hidden, perhaps due to her connection with the Pharaoh.

At some point, as we were deep in discussion, the bell above the library door chimed softly, announcing a new arrival. I glanced up, distracted for a moment, and saw Yugi walking in. He looked around, clearly searching for something, and then his eyes landed on our table. He seemed surprised to see me surrounded by the five girls he didn't know.

"Yugi?" I called out, waving him over.

He hesitated for a moment before walking towards us. "Hey, Britt. I didn't expect to see you here."

"We're doing some research," I explained. "Yugi, these are my friends: Zoey, Nina, Olivia, Heather, and Miranda."

The girls greeted him warmly, and Yugi nodded politely. "Nice to meet you all. I'm just here to get a book for a school project."

"Maybe you can help us," Olivia suggested, always eager to include everyone in the research. "We're looking into some ancient Egyptian artifacts."

Yugi's eyes widened with interest. "Really? What kind of artifacts?"

I showed him the bracelet again. "This one. It seems to have some kind of power."

Yugi leaned in, examining it closely. "It looks familiar. I've seen similar designs in some of my grandfather's books."

"Do you think he might have more information?" I asked, hopeful.

"Probably. We can check with him later," Yugi said, glancing at the pile of books on our table. "It looks like you have quite a bit of research already."

"Yeah, we're trying to piece it all together," I replied, feeling a sense of camaraderie with my friends and Yugi. We were all in this together, unraveling the mysteries of the past to understand the present.

As the afternoon wore on, we continued our research, sharing theories and discoveries. The presence of the Queen within me felt less daunting with my friends and Yugi by my side. Little did we know, our quest for knowledge was only the beginning of a much larger adventure.

As the afternoon turned into evening, our research began to hit a wall. Despite our best efforts, the information we found was fragmented and vague. It seemed that anything directly related to the Queen and her connection to the Pharaoh had been deliberately obscured or removed from the historical records.

Olivia sighed, closing yet another book with a frustrated thump. "There's just not enough here. It's like someone went out of their way to erase her from history."

Zoey nodded in agreement. "Yeah, all we keep finding are references to her, but nothing concrete. It's frustrating."

Nina frowned, flipping through the last few pages of a dusty tome. "There has to be something we're missing. Maybe we need a different approach."

Heather, who had been silently taking notes, looked up thoughtfully. "Perhaps the key lies not just in the texts, but in the artifacts themselves. The bracelet, the puzzle... they might hold answers that books can't provide."

Miranda glanced at me, her eyes filled with determination. "We'll figure this out, Britt. We just need to keep looking and stay patient."

Yugi, who had been quietly observing our efforts, offered a reassuring smile. "Don't lose hope. Sometimes, the answers come when you least expect them."

As we packed up our things and prepared to leave the library, I felt a mix of frustration and resolve. We hadn't found the answers we were looking for, but we had strengthened our bond and renewed our determination to uncover the truth. With the weekend drawing to a close, I knew it was time to shift our focus back to school, even as the mysteries of the past continued to linger in the back of my mind.

Monday morning arrived with the usual hustle and bustle of a new school week. I walked into Domino High, my mind still preoccupied with the events of the weekend. The halls were filled with the familiar sounds of students chatting, lockers clanging, and the occasional shout from a teacher trying to maintain order.

As I made my way to my locker, I spotted Yugi up ahead, surrounded by Jonouchi, Anzu, and Honda. They were laughing about something, and I felt a pang of envy at their easy camaraderie. I was still the new girl, trying to find my place in this school and in the strange world that was unfolding around me.

"Britt! Over here!" Anzu called out, waving me over.

I smiled and hurried to join them. "Hey, everyone. How was your weekend?"

Jonouchi grinned. "Pretty good. Got in some practice at the arcade. How about you?"

I hesitated, not wanting to reveal too much about my research just yet. "It was... interesting. Did some reading and hung out with friends."

Yugi looked at me curiously. "Did you find anything new about your bracelet?"

I shook my head. "Not much, unfortunately. It's like all the important information is missing."

Anzu frowned sympathetically. "That sounds frustrating. But I'm sure you'll figure it out eventually."

The bell rang, signaling the start of the first class. We all headed to our respective classrooms, and I tried to push my worries to the back of my mind. But it was hard to focus. Throughout the morning, my thoughts kept drifting back to the bracelet and the Queen within it. I felt like I was on the brink of a major discovery, but the pieces of the puzzle just weren't fitting together.

During the break, I found myself wandering the school grounds, lost in thought. I barely noticed when Yugi approached me.

"Britt? You okay?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.

I snapped out of my reverie and gave him a reassuring smile. "Yeah, just thinking about everything."

He nodded, understanding. "If you ever need to talk or need help with your research, you know you can count on us, right?"

I felt a warm surge of gratitude. "Thanks, Yugi. That means a lot."

We stood there for a moment, sharing a silent understanding. The mysteries of the past were daunting, but with friends like Yugi and the others, I felt a little more confident that we'd find the answers eventually. As the break ended and we headed back to class, I couldn't help but feel that the new week held the promise of new discoveries and unexpected adventures.

I realized that dwelling on the mysteries surrounding the bracelet and the Queen within it wasn't going to be good for my health. As I walked through the school corridors, thoughts of the other Yugi lingered in my mind. Was he my husband from a past life? The connection between the bracelet and the puzzle seemed undeniable, but the details remained elusive.

Amidst my contemplation, I overheard Yugi, Jonouchi, and Honda discussing their plans to visit Burger World. I had heard of the place, but my curiosity was piqued further when Anzu began to react with unexpected intensity. She seemed almost frantic in her attempts to dissuade them from going. Domino High had its share of strange rules, one of them being the prohibition of part-time jobs, which made Anzu's reaction all the more suspicious.

Deciding to follow her discreetly, I observed Anzu's movements. It soon became apparent that I wasn't the only one tailing her—Miho was also on her trail. As Anzu entered Burger World, I noticed a flicker of recognition in her eyes. It dawned on me that Anzu worked there, possibly against school rules.

The previous day, driven by a desire to save up for my dream of becoming a singer, I had boldly applied for a job at Burger World. Anzu's presence there confirmed my suspicions about her employment. The next day, as Anzu left school, I fell into step beside her, intending to learn more about her job and perhaps uncover the reason behind her secrecy.

Yugi and Jonouchi, noticing our departure together, exchanged curious glances. I could sense their suspicion.

I wasn't the only one intrigued by Anzu's secretive behavior. As I discreetly followed her into Burger World, I noticed Miho trailing not far behind. Her presence added another layer of intrigue to the situation. It seemed that Anzu's actions had sparked curiosity beyond just myself.

The next day, as Anzu left school, I fell into step beside her, intending to learn more about her job and perhaps uncover the reason behind her secrecy. To my surprise, Miho joined us, her expression a mix of determination and curiosity. It became clear that she, too, had discovered Anzu's employment secret and was eager to delve deeper.

As we approached Burger World, Honda's unexpected appearance caught us off guard. He had been following our movements closely, and his decision to join us signaled a growing determination to unravel the mystery surrounding Anzu. It seemed that our group was expanding, each of us driven by our own reasons to investigate Anzu's enigmatic behavior.

Yugi and Jonouchi, noticing our departure together once again, exchanged puzzled glances. The unfolding events had piqued their interest, leaving them curious about our sudden interest in Burger World and Anzu's role there.

As we walked away from school together, Jonouchi couldn't resist teasing Yugi. "Hey Yugi, your best friends Britt and Anzu seem pretty chummy. Are they getting into the compensated dating business now?"

Yugi's cheeks flushed with embarrassment, and he stammered a protest, "N-no, Jonouchi! It's nothing like that."

Anzu shot Jonouchi a sharp look, clearly displeased with his teasing. "Cut it out, Jonouchi. We're just going to Burger World," she said, attempting to steer the conversation away from the uncomfortable topic.

he next day, Yugi and Jonouchi couldn't resist their curiosity and decided to follow us to Burger World after school. They kept a careful distance, observing from afar as Anzu, Miho, Honda, and I entered the restaurant. The mystery surrounding Anzu's job and our sudden interest in Burger World only deepened their intrigue.

Unaware that they were being followed, all four of us warmly greeted them at the door of Burger World. However, upon realizing it was Yugi and Jonouchi, we exchanged knowing glances and turned to attend to our duties. Despite the situation, I took the time to seat them.

"Yugi, my dream has always been to be a singer," I confessed softly to him.

Even before discovering I was the reincarnation of some ancient Queen, I had held onto this dream. Yugi possessed power over the Yami no games, but what about me? A Queen wields power akin to her King, suggesting that deep within me lies an ancient power waiting to be unlocked.

The atmosphere at Burger World buzzed with a mix of anticipation and curiosity as Yugi and Jonouchi settled into their seats. Anzu and Miho exchanged knowing glances, their secrets veiled beneath casual smiles. Honda, sensing something was afoot, glanced around with a hint of suspicion.

As I made my way over to take their orders, Yugi's gaze lingered on me, silently questioning. "A singer, huh?" he mused softly, his curiosity evident.

I nodded, feeling a rush of determination to confide in him. "Yeah. Ever since I can remember, I've wanted to sing. It's like... my true passion."

Anzu, catching the moment, interjected with a playful grin. "Britt here has quite the voice, you know. Maybe one day you'll get to hear her."

I blushed at her praise but felt a surge of gratitude for her support. Miho, always perceptive, chimed in with enthusiasm. "You should join the school choir, Britt! They're always looking for new talent."

Her suggestion sparked a flicker of hope within me. Perhaps it was time to pursue my dream openly, regardless of the ancient mysteries entwined within my life.

After taking their orders and sharing a few laughs, Anzu motioned for us to take a break together. We gathered around a corner table, where Anzu leaned in conspiratorially. "So, spill it, Britt. What's with the sudden interest in Burger World?"

I hesitated for a moment, unsure how much to reveal. "Well, I needed a job," I began cautiously, "and I've always been curious about what goes on here. Plus, it's a chance to save up for something important."

Miho and Honda nodded in understanding, their expressions sympathetic yet intrigued. Jonouchi, ever the jokester, couldn't resist teasing. "Compensated dating pays better than flipping burgers, you know."

I shot him a mock glare, but inside, I appreciated the light-hearted banter easing the tension. "Trust me, it's nothing like that," I reassured them with a grin.

Yugi, ever observant, seemed to sense there was more to the story. "Whatever your reasons, Britt," he said gently, "we're here to support you."

His words resonated deeply with me, reminding me that amidst the mysteries of my past and the challenges of the present, I had friends who stood by me.

Yugi couldn't help but notice how both Anzu and Britt looked cute in their Burger World uniforms, though he kept his thoughts to himself to avoid any embarrassment.

As they chatted and enjoyed their meal, a new figure caught their attention—a stylish girl with confident strides entered Burger World. She had a distinct air of sophistication, her fashion-forward attire catching everyone's eye.

Britt's eyes widened in astonishment as she turned to see Tany approaching their table. "Tany! What are you doing here?" Britt exclaimed, rising to give her friend a warm hug.

Tany grinned, her demeanor as lively as ever. "Mom's setting up the new fashion store down the street. Thought I'd grab a bite and see if you're still around. Didn't expect to find you here, though!"

Introductions followed, with Tany meeting Yugi, Jonouchi, Miho, and Honda. Yugi found himself drawn to Tany's easy charm and striking presence. He couldn't help but admire her confident demeanor and sense of style, contrasting with Britt's more reserved nature.

"So, you work here now?" Tany asked Britt, curiosity dancing in her eyes.

Britt nodded, her expression brightening. "Yeah, trying to save up for something important."

Tany winked playfully. "Keeping it mysterious, huh? Well, if you ever need a break from burgers, swing by Mom's shop. We could use some extra hands setting things up."

Britt smiled gratefully, touched by Tany's offer of support. Amidst the chatter and laughter, the atmosphere at Burger World felt lighter, the bond between friends strengthened by unexpected reunions and shared moments.

As much as I wanted to catch up with Tany, I couldn't because of work. I delivered food orders, watching Anzu serve Yugi and Jonouchi their burgers. I glanced at the message Anzu made, pondering if I should keep this part-time job. Maybe working under the table for Tanya's mom, who often asked me to model for her fashion store, would be less hassle.

Then, an inspector arrived, prompting me to take a breather in the bathroom. Outside, I heard commotion. I splashed water on my face, overwhelmed by everything I was involved in and unable to control. When I returned, I was suddenly blindfolded and heard the unsettling sound of a gun.

What the hell... I thought, disoriented.

Upon being led to a booth, I recognized the voice—it was the manager.

"Now then! Someone's gonna get what I demand!" he bellowed, and I reluctantly took a seat, realizing I was in danger. My thoughts turned to the other Yugi—would he come to my rescue?

"You! The wussy-looking brat over there!" the manager shouted, pointing at me. "You do it! Don't any of you move!"

Everyone, including Tanya, was on the ground. A warning shot rang out, and the manager demanded booze and cigarettes, revealing his habits. I hesitated, then found my voice.

"Yugi? Don't do it!" I yelled, just before feeling the manager's slap across my cheek.

"Britt!" I heard Yugi's voice call out in alarm.

As the chaos unfolded around me, I strained against the blindfold, my heart pounding with fear and frustration. "Let me take over," the Queen's voice urged urgently in my mind, "You must regain control." But trapped in darkness, I felt helpless, unable to see Yugi or assess the situation. I could only hope that Yugi wouldn't comply with the manager's demands, knowing the danger it posed.

I let the Queen take control, her calmness contrasting with my unease, yet I still felt the shift around me as Yugi transformed into his alter ego. Even in darkness, I remained aware of the sound of a bottle being set down, knowing the situation unfolding despite the Queen guiding my actions.

"It's time for a game," Yugi declared.

The other Yugi, the one who had faced Ushio, I thought, listening intently to his announced rules for the Yami no game. I anticipated several rules, but Yugi surprised me with simplicity.

"There is but one rule. Of our ten fingers, we may move only one each," Yugi stated. "You are free to choose which finger. Which will it be?"

As the Queen maintained control, keeping me composed, I heard the manager opt for his index finger—the trigger finger. Yugi chose his thumb. I waited, feeling tension mount until Yugi finally pulled me up from the booth.

"Let's go, Britt," he said.

Untying the blindfold, I saw that the manager had cheated and realized he was about to face consequences. The Queen, still guiding me, smirked, foreseeing his fate.

"The Door of Darkness has opened," Yugi and I declared simultaneously.

Here's a refined version with grammar corrections and rephrasing:

The Queen receded, allowing me to regain control. I had wanted to ask the other Yugi about our connection, but before I could, Yugi appeared. I was shocked and somewhat disappointed—I yearned for answers that seemed just out of reach. Deciding to quit Burger World after that incident, where I had unwittingly worked under a potentially criminal manager, left me unsettled. The restaurant closed temporarily due to the fallout.

As I collected my final tips, we all exited together. I shuddered at the realization that the manager could have endangered my life. "Are you alright?" Yugi asked, concern evident in his voice. I nodded, realizing that a big burger joint wasn't where I belonged; I needed to find a safer path.

Tanya caught up with us, panting slightly. She looked at me earnestly. "Britt, become my mom's model. You'll earn enough money to pursue your dreams freely," Tanya suggested.

The offer was tempting, coming from someone I trusted. "I'll consider it, Tany," I replied cautiously.

After leaving Burger World for good, I went home for a brief respite, needing time to process everything that had happened. The incident at the restaurant lingered in my thoughts, but I pushed it aside temporarily as I headed out to the park. Under the soft glow of moonlight, I unexpectedly encountered the other Yugi. His presence brought a mix of curiosity and uncertainty—I knew he was seeking answers just as I was.

"Yugi," I began tentatively, "what do you think connects us?"

Yugi looked thoughtful, his expression serious yet contemplative. "I'm not entirely sure," he admitted quietly. "But I feel something... familiar about you, Britt. Like we've known each other for a long time, in another life perhaps."

His words resonated with me, stirring a strange mix of emotions. "I feel it too," I confessed, uncertain of where this revelation might lead us.

He offered his hand to me, and I placed mine in his as we walked. The park around us seemed quieter under the moonlight, amplifying the weight of our conversation. "According to my friends, it was another life... I was... your Queen," I revealed tentatively, watching his expression for any sign of disbelief.

Yugi remained calm, his gaze steady. "I believe you," he said softly, surprising me with his earnest acceptance. "It explains a lot, actually. Like why I've always felt drawn to puzzles and games, and why I can't shake this feeling that there's more to life than what we see."

I nodded, relieved that he didn't dismiss my revelation. "Do you think we're meant to remember more?" I wondered aloud, thinking of the mysteries still locked away.

Yugi squeezed my hand gently. "Maybe," he mused, his voice barely above a whisper. "But maybe it's enough for now that we've found each other again."

As we continued walking, the moonlight cast long shadows around us, illuminating a path forward that seemed both uncertain and promising. Suddenly, we came upon Zoey, who was waiting under a lamppost nearby.

"Hey, Britt, Yugi," Zoey greeted us warmly. "I've been waiting for you. I have something for you." She held out a small ring with an intricate design.

"What's this?" I asked, intrigued by the unexpected gift.

"It's a communicator ring," Zoey explained. "With this, you can communicate with Yugi even when he's in the puzzle, and vice versa. It's a way to stay connected no matter what."

Yugi looked at the ring thoughtfully. "That's incredible," he said, impressed by the idea. "Thank you, Zoey."

Zoey smiled. "Consider it a gift from all of us," she said, glancing at Nina, Heather, Olivia, and Miranda who were standing nearby, watching with curiosity. "We're all here to support you both."

I slipped the ring onto my finger, feeling a sense of gratitude and determination. "Thank you, everyone," I said sincerely, feeling a renewed sense of purpose in our shared journey.

Now, as I stand on the brink of returning to Domino High for high school, I feel a mix of excitement and anticipation. Reuniting with Yugi, Anzu, and meeting new friends would be wonderful, but there was also a sense of purpose. Even without fully understanding the connection, I knew that returning to Domino City was a step towards uncovering the truth about my past and my destiny.

Walking through the halls of Domino High felt like stepping into a dream. The familiarity of the place, mixed with the excitement of new beginnings, created a whirlwind of emotions. It had been years since I last saw Yugi and Anzu, and I wondered if they would recognize me.

The school year was already in full swing, about a month or two in, and I felt the pressure of being the new student. My first class of the day was history, a subject I had grown to love thanks to my parents. I took a deep breath, clutching my books tightly as I approached the classroom door.

"Here goes nothing," I whispered to myself before stepping inside.

The room fell silent as I entered, and all eyes turned to me. The teacher, a kind-looking woman with glasses perched on the end of her nose, smiled warmly.

"Ah, you must be Britt Petrova, our new student," she said. "Welcome to Domino High. Please, introduce yourself to the class."

I nodded, feeling a blush creep up my cheeks. "Hi, I'm Britt. I just moved back to Domino City from Egypt. I lived here a few years ago, so it's nice to be back."

As I scanned the room, my eyes locked onto a familiar face. Yugi's eyes widened in recognition, and he nudged Anzu, who turned to look at me with equal surprise. A wave of relief washed over me, knowing that my old friends were here.

"Why don't you take a seat next to Yugi and Anzu," the teacher suggested, pointing to the empty desk beside them.

I walked over, trying to maintain my composure despite the nervous excitement bubbling inside me. As I sat down, Yugi leaned over with a grin.

"Britt? Is it really you?" he whispered.

I smiled back, feeling the warmth of our old friendship rekindle instantly. "Yeah, it's me. It's been a long time, huh?"

Anzu joined in, her eyes sparkling with delight. "It's so good to see you again! We have so much to catch up on."

The rest of the class passed in a blur as my mind raced with memories and questions. After the bell rang, Yugi and Anzu guided me through the bustling hallways, catching me up on everything that had happened since we last saw each other.

"How's Egypt?" Yugi asked, his curiosity evident.

"It's amazing," I replied. "My parents are still working on archaeological digs, so I've learned a lot about ancient history. But I missed Domino City... and you guys."

Anzu smiled. "We're glad you're back. Things have been pretty interesting around here too."

As we made our way to the cafeteria for lunch, I couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging. Despite the time and distance that had separated us, our bond remained strong. And with the mystery of the Millennium Bracelet still lingering in the back of my mind, I knew that this was where I needed to be.

Lunch was fine for the most part as we all got along and laughed, but then Yugi mentioned he had a treasure. I was curious, but I wasn't about to just ask around.

After a few days at Domino High and settling into the school schedule, I noticed that Yugi was a bit of a loner, which I couldn't blame him for. My friends and confidants were in another classroom, but that was fine.

One day, I walked out to get lunch, bought something to eat, and got a little extra. When I returned, I saw a blonde-haired male holding a box. I quickly realized the box was Yugi's. I put the extra sandwich in my bag and walked in at the same time as Anzu. I snatched the box and walked over to Yugi, setting it down along with the extra sandwich.

"Who are you?" Jonouchi asked.

I hated bullies more than anything else, and I felt my anger rise as I looked at him. "Who am I? My name is Britt. I've been the new student here for a few days, and you're bullying my friend," I said, despising the situation.

"No one is bullying. I was just teaching Yugi to be a man—" Jonouchi said.

I rolled my eyes, knowing Yugi was a teenage boy and didn't have to grow up just because someone else wanted him to. "He doesn't have to be a man by your standards," I said firmly.

Then a girl with purple hair walked in, and Honda Hiroto called her 'Miho-chan.' I knew that sometimes people referred to each other with '-chan' or '-kun' at the end of their names. I heard her mention she was hungry, and the two boys left.

Anzu looked at me, noticing that I had stood up for Yugi, and smiled. "Same as always, you haven't changed a bit," Anzu said. Miho seemed surprised by Anzu's words as she looked at me. My dark brown hair with purple highlights was an odd combination, but I felt like I was always meant to look this way.

"Um, I went to lunch, but if you're hungry, Miho... I could give you this," I offered, holding out the extra sandwich. She shook her head.

"Honda will get it," Miho said.

I nodded as I looked at Yugi. "So, what's in the box?" I asked, genuinely curious. Yugi's eyes lit up with excitement as he began to explain about his treasure—a strange puzzle unearthed from an Egyptian ruin, now shattered into several pieces.

"It's this puzzle," Yugi explained, his hands carefully holding the pieces. "Legend says it's from ancient Egypt. It's supposed to be really special, but I haven't figured out how to put it together yet."

As Yugi spoke, I couldn't help but feel drawn to the pieces of the puzzle. My own Millennium Bracelet, unbeknownst to me, held its own ancient power. It began to glow softly on my wrist, reacting to the presence of another mysterious artifact nearby. Lost in the moment, I found myself slipping into a trance-like state, mesmerized by the faint pulsing of light.

In my trance, visions flashed through my mind—scenes of ancient Egypt, a powerful Pharaoh holding the puzzle intact, and a catastrophe that shattered it into fragments. It was as if the memories sealed within my bracelet were unfolding before me, showing me the puzzle's journey through time.

Anzu's concerned voice broke through my reverie. "Britt, are you okay?" she asked, gently shaking me out of my trance. I blinked, coming back to reality, and realized everyone was staring at me with a mix of curiosity and concern.

"I'm... I'm fine," I stammered, trying to gather my thoughts. The connection between my bracelet and Yugi's puzzle felt profound, yet elusive, like pieces of a puzzle just out of reach.

Yugi, who had been absorbed in explaining the puzzle, finally noticed my bracelet—its intricate design and the faint glow that had subsided. His expression turned curious, as if noticing something peculiar for the first time.

"It seems like your bracelet has a story of its own," he said softly, his eyes darting between me and the puzzle pieces.

As the bell rang, signaling the end of lunch, I couldn't shake the feeling that my encounter with Yugi and his broken puzzle was just the beginning of something far greater. The ancient spirits whispered through the ages, urging me to uncover the secrets buried within both the puzzle and my own past.

I stepped out to get something when I noticed Jonouchi and Honda. I saw Jonouchi throw something out the window, sparking my curiosity. I wondered what it was, but I had a feeling I'd eventually find out. Later, I walked with Yugi out of the school and we came across a group of men training. I questioned exactly what they were doing, but a sense of unease crept over me, especially when Ushio approached us.

"Yugi-kun," Ushio addressed him, and we halted. He then turned to Yugi, interrogating him about whether he was being bullied. I knew Yugi faced some form of bullying, as was common in school environments.

"He's not being bullied, and if he were, he has me to back him up," I interjected firmly to Ushio's inquiry, but he didn't seem pleased.

"And who are you? No offense, but you're a girl. Starting today, I, Ushio, shall take responsibility for him as his bodyguard," Ushio declared.

It became clear to me that Ushio held sexist beliefs, doubting a girl's ability to protect a boy from another boy. It infuriated me deeply, though I couldn't deny he had a physical advantage over me.

"My name is Britt. I've been friends with Yugi since Kindergarten, and if he were having such a problem, I would know," I asserted.

Yugi took my wrist and swiftly led me away before the situation could escalate further. It became apparent to me that Yugi lacked confidence around Ushio, but I refrained from passing judgment. There was something unsettling about Ushio; he seemed more concerned with personal gain than genuine protection, though I could have been mistaken.

Yugi was visibly excited as we walked to the game shop. Upon arriving, we found Anzu there.

"Anzu..." I greeted her.

"Hey, I thought I'd visit Yugi. It's been a long time since we played, but since you're here, we can all play together," Anzu suggested warmly.

I smiled, but our reunion was interrupted by approaching footsteps. I turned to see Sugoroku Mutou, Yugi's grandfather, who looked surprised to see me.

"Britt, you've returned," Sugoroku Mutou remarked with a smile.

"Yes, sir," I replied respectfully.

As Sugoroku Mutou conversed with us, he began discussing the unfinished puzzle Yugi had. He explained how solving it would grant the solver the power of the "Yami no Game," also known as the Game of Darkness or Shadow Game. My bracelet glowed once more, and for a brief moment, a vision flashed before me—a man extending his hand, his face obscured from view.

Again, Anzu's voice snapped me out of it. She was visibly shaken by the story—after all, someone had died in the Valley of the Kings. I had been there myself, inside the Pharaoh's tomb where my bracelet had been discovered. Strangely, there were no bodies found in that tomb. I couldn't help but wonder why now that I thought of it.

Sugoroku Mutou, a former archaeologist, then noticed the bracelet on my wrist. His eyes widened with recognition as he gently reached out to touch it.

"Britt, this bracelet... it's more significant than you realize," Sugoroku Mutou began, his voice carrying a weight of solemnity. "It's a Millennium item, like the puzzle Yugi has. These items hold ancient power, connected to the Pharaoh's legacy."

I glanced down at my bracelet, now glowing softly in response to Sugoroku's words. It seemed to pulse with a hidden energy, as if waiting for its true purpose to be unlocked.

"It was found in the Pharaoh's tomb," Sugoroku continued, his expression thoughtful. "Until now, it couldn't be removed. Its connection to you is a mystery we must unravel."

Anzu looked between us, her curiosity evident. "Britt, does this mean...?"

"I'm not sure," I admitted honestly, feeling a mix of fascination and uncertainty. "But I believe there's more to discover about this bracelet and its ties to the ancient past."

As we stood there, the game shop around us seemed to fade into the background. The mystery of my bracelet and its connection to the Millennium items had opened a new chapter in my life—one filled with intrigue, ancient power, and the quest for answers buried deep within the sands of time.

After returning home to my parents and siblings, I settled down to do my homework. As I glanced at the bracelet on my wrist, I knew I could usually remove it, but sometimes it seemed to have a mind of its own. I touched the eye symbol on the bracelet and pushed down, attempting to take it off before bed, but it wouldn't budge. It was rather odd that it didn't always cooperate.

Maybe there's a reason for this, I thought to myself.

With homework finished, I climbed into bed and drifted into a dreamless sleep. Yet, in the middle of the night, I awoke to find the bracelet glowing softly. I blinked, uncertain if I was still dreaming, as I found myself standing in what appeared to be a labyrinth. The stone walls loomed high around me, illuminated by a faint, eerie light.

As I cautiously explored the labyrinth, each turn seemed to lead me deeper into its mysterious depths. Shadows danced on the walls, and the air grew cooler with each step. I could hear the faint echo of my own footsteps mingling with another set, as if someone else were navigating the labyrinth alongside me.

Who else could be here? I wondered, my heartbeat quickening.

Suddenly, a figure emerged from around a corner ahead—a silhouette cloaked in regal attire, bearing a striking resemblance to myself but different, ancient somehow. Before I could make out any details, the figure vanished into the shadows, leaving only a lingering whisper in the air.

"Find me," the voice echoed, haunting yet faintly familiar.

My heart raced with a mixture of awe and apprehension. The encounter left me with more questions than answers, but one thing was clear—the labyrinth held secrets, and my connection to it ran deeper than I had ever imagined.

When I woke up the next morning, sunlight streamed through my window, casting a warm glow across my room. After getting ready, I headed off to school as usual, the mysterious labyrinth from my dream still lingering in my thoughts. The day passed in a blur of classes and conversations, but I decided to stay after school for a while.

As I was leaving, I spotted Yugi returning for something he had forgotten. Ahead, I saw Ushio stopping him and demanding a bodyguard fee. I followed behind them, sensing trouble brewing. My heart sank when I witnessed Ushio kick Yugi, a cruel act that shocked me to the core.

"Yugi..." I called out, my voice filled with concern.

Jonouchi and Honda arrived just in time, and Jonouchi knelt down beside me where Yugi lay. I watched in silence as Jonouchi placed the last piece of something into Yugi's hand. In that tense moment, my bracelet began to glow softly, as if responding to the escalating situation.

"Let me help you," whispered the haunting voice from my dream, resonating within me.

At the same instant, Yugi's demeanor changed abruptly. His eyes flashed with an intense determination, and his posture became more confident. It was as if a different presence had taken over him. Simultaneously, I felt a strange surge of energy through my own body, and the regal persona of the Queen from my dream emerged within me, urging me to take action.

Yugi and I moved as one, each driven by our respective ancient spirits. With a swift and graceful motion, we were suddenly on the roof of the school, and there was a rope wrapped around Ushio. He looked scared at first.

"Now, Ushio," Yugi's voice resonated, overlaid with a deeper, commanding tone that was not his own. "Let's play a game."

At the same time, I stood beside Yugi, my gaze fixed on Ushio. The Queen's presence within me radiated an aura of authority and challenge. I didn't fully understand what was happening, but I grasped part of it: this was the Yami no Game that Yugi's grandfather had talked about. I noticed the other part of the rope was wrapped around Yugi.

Yugi ran the cards along the side of the roof, explaining the rules: they would take turns drawing cards and climb up the number indicated on the card, while the other would lower by the same amount. The first to reach the top would be the winner.

Ushio agreed and went first, drawing a ten and climbing up. Then Yugi drew a king. This continued for a while, with them lowering and climbing alternately. Watching it wasn't very engaging, but I noticed Yugi's unwavering focus. Eventually, Yugi won.

I wasn't concerned, even though I had no control of my body at the moment with the Queen within me. That changed when I saw Yugi fall. I was in shock and feared my friend had died, but the Queen didn't show any of my emotions. Did she know something I didn't? I watched as Ushio tried to take the prize, anger radiating off him as he approached me.

"The door of Darkness has opened," Yugi and I said in unison.

The door of Darkness... I've heard of that before, I thought.

Suddenly, Ushio fell off the roof, and it seemed he was going to land in water until three giant worms with sharp teeth emerged and swallowed him in darkness, a manifestation of his own greed. Before I could regain control of my body, I felt my arm lifted, and my eyes met Yugi's... only that wasn't Yugi.

It looks like Yugi, but it is not, I thought.

Yami and the Queen within me safely descended from the roof, looked at each other, and then I closed my eyes. When I opened them, I was back in control. I questioned if it had all been a dream as I saw Yugi looking confused in front of me, the puzzle now around his neck.

That wasn't a dream... I thought.

I walked with the others to get them bandaged up for the next day. As I entered school the following morning, I saw Yugi and Jonouchi talking. Jonouchi called Yugi a friend, and they ran off together. I smiled, though my mind was still preoccupied with what had happened last night and the presence of the other Yugi.

As the morning progressed, I couldn't shake the lingering thoughts from the night before. The strange transformation, the surreal game, and the intense presence of the Queen within me—all of it swirled in my mind, refusing to settle. I found myself replaying the events over and over, trying to make sense of what had happened.

Classes passed by in a blur. I sat through lectures and took notes, but my mind was elsewhere. Every so often, my fingers would brush against the bracelet, now a constant reminder of the mysteries I was entwined with. I barely noticed the puzzled looks from my classmates or the concerned glances from my teachers.

By the time the break came around, I was lost in thought, staring blankly at my notebook. The classroom emptied out, but I remained seated, absorbed in my own world. I was so deep in my thoughts that I didn't notice Yugi approaching until he gently tapped my shoulder.

"Britt? Are you okay?" Yugi asked, his voice filled with genuine concern.

I snapped out of my reverie, blinking up at him. "Oh, Yugi. Yeah, I'm fine. Just... thinking about some stuff."

He sat down next to me, his eyes searching mine. "You seemed really distracted today. Is something bothering you?"

I hesitated, knowing I couldn't share everything. The events of the previous night were still fresh, and I remembered every detail vividly, even though the Queen had been in control. "It's just... a lot happened last night," I finally said, choosing my words carefully. "I'm still trying to wrap my head around it."

Yugi nodded, looking thoughtful. "I know I finished the puzzle, but after that, everything's a blur. The next thing I remember is waking up and seeing you in front of me. It's like there's a gap in my memory."

I nodded slowly, hiding the fact that I remembered everything. "Me too. And this bracelet," I said, holding up my wrist, "I think it has something to do with it all. It glowed last night, and I felt... different."

Yugi's eyes widened slightly as he looked at the bracelet, the same one that had glowed during the game. "It's definitely unique. Maybe we can figure it out together."

His words brought a small smile to my face. "I'd like that, Yugi. I think we're both in this together, whether we understand it or not."