The sharp chime of a bell echoed gently as the door to the local bakery swung open. Ryuki stepped inside, his boots muffled by the polished tiles. The warm aroma of freshly baked bread and cream-filled pastries contrasted greatly with his current state-tattered coat, singed sleeves, and soot-smeared gloves. His arrival didn't go unnoticed.
"Ryuki-kun?" the bakery owner blinked, pausing mid-way while arranging a tray of matcha chiffon rolls behind the glass display. "Good heavens, what in the world happened to you? You look like you ran through a warzone!"
Ryuki gave an awkward chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck. "Well... I "did" duel someone, and let's just say it got a bit out of hand."
The owner leaned forward, squinting as if trying to see through the soot to the truth. "You duelists really don't know when to stop sometimes. You're not supposed to roast the other guy literally."
"Noted," Ryuki said dryly.
After selecting a variety of cake slices-strawberry shortcake for Ruri, chocolate fudge for Rin, a matcha one for himself, and vanilla for Dran and Tigar (though how exactly they ate was still a mystery to most), he left the bakery, bags in hand and the sound of laughter from the other customers trailing behind him.
As he climbed the stairs to the apartment, fatigue was starting to set in-not from pain, but the emotional weight of the duel and what followed. Facing Shun had been inevitable, but still more painful than expected. At least the fire had burned away the worst of the tension.
He keyed open the door. "I'm back-"
"RYUKI!?" Rin's voice cut through the air as soon as she saw him, the spoon she was holding dropping into a bowl of batter.
Ryuki blinked. "Oh. Yeah. I was going to change before coming in, but-"
Rin stormed toward him, pointing at the burn marks across his outfit. "What happened to you?! Were you hit by a truck? Lit on fire? Thrown off a building?!"
"In a manner of speaking," Ryuki said with a sheepish grin. "I... dueled Ruri's brother."
"You what?" Rin's hands were now firmly planted on her hips.
Before the interrogation could continue, Ruri appeared from the hallway, her eyes immediately going wide upon seeing Ryuki. "You really went to see him..."
"I had to," Ryuki replied, his voice turning serious. "And I didn't hold back."
A heavy pause fell between the three of them before Rin smacked Ryuki lightly on the head. "You idiot. At least tell us next time."
"I didn't want you both getting involved," Ryuki said sincerely. "Especially you, Ruri."
Ruri lowered her gaze for a moment, then nodded in understanding. "It's alright... I trust your judgment." Then her eyes lifted as Ryuki took a card from his coat and handed it to her.
"I want you to see this."
She gently took the card, and as her eyes scanned the name and the artwork, a soft blush came to her cheeks.
"Dragonic Waterfall..." she murmured. The majestic, water-clad dragon stared back at her with ethereal grace. A fusion of strength and calm. "It's... beautiful. And a WATER Attribute too?"
Rin leaned in, eyes wide. "Wait-hold on, that's an Xyz Monster?! Since when did you start using Xyz cards?"
"I didn't. Not until this duel. This card-" he gestured to Waterfall "-was the one I saw in my PSYqualia vision. I don't even know how it ended up in my Extra Deck, but it came to me when I needed it most."
Ruri exhaled, brushing her fingers across the foil. "So... you beat nii-san with this?"
Ryuki nodded. "I did. But more importantly, I made him listen. He calmed down by the end. I didn't use any real harm, even if it looked that way."
"What happened after?" Ruri asked, more gently this time.
"Yuto arrived right as the duel ended. He was about to flee with Shun, but I used PSYqualia to knock him out. Reiji and Nakajima arrived later. They're now in LDS' care."
Rin huffed and crossed her arms. "You just had to go in solo again. Next time, I'm coming whether you like it or not."
Ryuki gave her a half-smile. "You always say that."
He then moved to the kitchen, opened the fridge, and stored the cakes with care. "Don't worry-I did bring something for everyone."
The mood shifted to a lighter tone as the scent of rice and grilled fish filled the apartment. Ruri and Rin began setting up the plates and pouring tea while Dran and Tigar quietly phased into view, both giving exaggerated "I'm starving" gestures that made the girls giggle.
Just as Ryuki set the tableware down, the TV blared with the latest news update. Rin turned it up slightly.
"-In today's breaking news, LDS has confirmed the capture of two individuals suspected to be responsible for the recent disappearances. According to LDS president Akaba Reiji, the suspects were being "blackmailed" and forced into their actions. Effective immediately, they will be under LDS' custody and provide assistance to atone for their past deeds."
A picture of Shun and Yuto-edited heavily to obscure their faces-flickered across the screen.
Ruri's fork hovered mid-air. "That... was fast."
"I figured Reiji would handle the cover-up quickly," Ryuki muttered. "But even I didn't expect him to spin it like that."
"He's good at managing damage control," Rin added. "Though I do feel bad that he has to clean up so much of Leo Akaba's mess."
"I wouldn't be surprised if he has people working full-time just to contain his father's actions," Ryuki said, crossing his arms.
Ruri looked toward him. "What do you think will happen now?"
"I told Reiji to call me when they wake up. I want to talk to them again-but this time, not through flames or fury."
Dinner proceeded with quieter conversation. The battle scars from Ryuki's duel still lingered, but for the moment, he was home-among allies, companions, and people who genuinely cared.
Dran happily devoured his slice of vanilla cake (somehow), while Tigar sat calmly, sipping on what looked like chamomile tea from a porcelain teacup far too small for his large claws. Rin and Ruri exchanged looks, smiling at the bizarre normalcy that surrounded them.
Later that night, the apartment fell into a soothing silence. The moonlight bathed the floor in a pale glow as the city slept.
Ryuki stood by the window, staring out over Maiami City's skyline. His coat, now replaced with a black shirt and light hoodie, hung near the laundry basket. His duel disk rested on the table beside him, blinking gently in standby mode.
He held the Dragonic Waterfall card again in his hand. The blue scales shimmered faintly in the low light. Something about the card felt peaceful... yet unresolved.
"Is this really the path I'm supposed to take?" he murmured.
"You're doing fine," Ruri's voice said softly from behind him. She was holding a pillow in her arms, her eyes drowsy but warm. "You're protecting what matters. That's what makes you different from the people we're fighting."
Ryuki looked at her, then back to the card. "I hope I can live up to it."
"You already are." She moved beside him and rested her head against his shoulder. "We'll face everything together. Even your new 'mysterious blue dragon' phase."
Ryuki let out a quiet laugh. "Thanks."
They stayed like that for a moment longer before heading to bed-knowing that whatever came tomorrow, they'd face it together.
-----
Three days had passed since the infernal duel that had nearly reduced the alleyway-and its combatants-to cinders. Maiami City had returned to its usual buzz of life. The only lingering sign of the battle between Ryuki and Shun was in the headlines, twisted into a tale of coerced criminals now redeemed by LDS' magnanimity. The truth, however, resided with only a few.
And among those few, Ryuki, Ruri, and Rin now stood at the heart of You Show Duel School's training field, surrounded by the vibrant chatter of students preparing for the upcoming Maiami Championship, now only a week and a half away.
"Alright! One more lap, let's go! If you can't outrun your opponent, at least outrun their monster's shockwave!" Ryuki called out, clapping his hands as several younger students jogged past him, sweat glistening on their brows.
Standing beside him was Shuzo Hiiragi, who was yelling encouragement while somehow also balancing three bentos and a thermos under one arm.
"These kids need more leg strength! Back in my day, you'd run ten laps before breakfast!" Shuzo bellowed with theatrical fervor.
Ryuki chuckled. "They're duelists, not athletes, Shuzo-san. But you've got a point. In an Action Duel, even one misstep could cost a match."
Meanwhile, just a few meters away, Ruri and Rin were locked in a rapid-fire crash course under the guidance of none other than Yuya and Yuzu. Rin was vaulting over obstacle markers with decent agility, while Ruri took a more calculated approach, taking stock of each platform and ledge before making a move.
"Rin! Ruri! Make sure to keep an eye out for Action Cards hidden in blind spots!" Yuzu called.
"And remember!" Yuya added, holding up a bright orange Action Card prop. "The best Action Duelists don't chase the field-they command it!"
Ruri stumbled slightly on landing, catching herself just in time. "Easier said than done!"
"You're both doing great," Ryuki said as he walked over, handing each of them a towel. "You picked it up faster than I expected."
Rin sighed, brushing back a few loose strands of hair. "I'm still more comfortable with regular duels. But I guess it doesn't hurt to learn something new."
"Keep in mind," Ryuki said with a serious look, "Action Duels are flashy, yes. But they're also dangerous. The field can be as much an enemy as your opponent. That's why awareness is more important than just speed. Know where to step. Know where to fall."
Shuzo chimed in from behind them, nodding sagely. "Safety first. No championship is worth a broken ankle-or worse."
The girls nodded in agreement.
Just as they were preparing to wrap up for the day, Ryuki's Duel Disk buzzed with a new message. He raised his wrist, eyes scanning the notification. His expression shifted immediately to something more focused.
"They're awake," he said.
Ruri and Rin looked at him with wide eyes. "Nii-san?" Ruri asked.
Ryuki nodded. "And Yuto too. Reiji just messaged me."
Without hesitation, the three of them gathered their things and made their way to LDS.
At Leo Duel School
The facility's towering spires loomed above them as always, pristine and clinical under the midday sun. Upon entering, they were met by Nakajima, ever dutiful, who silently gestured for them to follow. The hallway to the private medical ward was silent, sterile, and cold.
When they arrived, Reiji stood beside one of the beds inside the ward. Shun Kurosaki had already woken and was sitting upright, bandaged around the arms and forehead, but alert. His violet hair was slightly disheveled, and his eyes had lost their earlier rage-they were sharp, but calmer.
"I expected more chains," he muttered dryly upon seeing Reiji. "How long have I been out?"
"Three days," Reiji answered, his voice level. "Both you and Yuto."
Shun turned slowly to his left and spotted his friend still unconscious in the adjacent bed. His fists clenched slightly.
"What happened to him?"
Reiji glanced toward the doorway. "The same thing that happened to you. Ryuki did it."
Shun blinked, the name striking something unfamiliar. "Ryuki... That's the name of the duelist I fought?"
"Yes," Reiji confirmed. "He intervened when he saw what you were about to do to the three LDS students. He's also the one who subdued Yuto when he arrived."
Shun groaned. "Tch. I never even asked for his name. I was too blinded by..."
"Rage," Reiji finished for him.
Before Shun could respond, Yuto stirred on the adjacent bed, eyes fluttering open.
"...Shun...?" he murmured, his voice raspy.
"I'm here," Shun said, immediately turning. "You okay?"
"I think so... What happened?" Yuto looked around, confused.
"We lost," Shun replied calmly. "We both did."
That answer surprised Yuto more than anything else. "You... sound different."
Shun leaned back slightly, letting out a slow exhale. "Because someone made me realize how far I had fallen. Someone who didn't fight to destroy me-but to make me 'see'."
Before Yuto could ask further, the door hissed open.
And in stepped Ryuki, flanked by Ruri and Rin.
Shun and Yuto both froze. The air tensed.
Ruri smiled gently and waved. "Long time no see, nii-san."
"...Ruri?" Shun's eyes widened in disbelief.
Yuto sat up slowly. "Is that really...?"
Ruri stepped forward and nodded. "Yes, it's me. I'm alright."
Yuto noticed the other girl beside her and blinked. "Wait, she looks just like you..."
Rin stepped forward and gave a polite bow. "Kazehaya Rin. I'm from the Synchro Dimension. I was kidnapped too, like Ruri. We've been staying together."
Ruri glanced back at Ryuki and gave him a look of appreciation. "He's the one who rescued us."
Yuto turned to Ryuki, eyes still trying to process. "So you're... Ryuki."
Ryuki gave a respectful nod. "Himejima Ryuki, pleased to meet you. And good to see you, Kurayami Yuto. Me and Rin heard a lot from you from Ruri."
Shun narrowed his eyes. "Himejima. Are you... with the rebels?"
That got Yuto to sit up straight. "Wait-rebels? In Academia?!"
Ryuki nodded. "Somewhat, Ruri and Rin as well. There are those who don't agree with Akaba Leo's ambitions. We're small, but we've been doing what we can to slow Academia's progress from the inside. Yusho-san leads the rebels."
"Yusho-sensei?" Shun's eyes widened. "He's alive?!"
Ruri stepped forward. "After he defeated one of Academia's commanders during the early invasion, a trap activated. A dimensional transporter sent him to Academia directly. That's why no one saw him again. He's alive-and still fighting."
The weight of her words silenced the room. Then slowly, relief dawned in the eyes of the two boys.
Yuto clenched a fist. "So he didn't abandon us..."
"No," Ryuki said quietly. "He's risking everything."
Yuto turned to Shun. "We need to let the Resistance know. They deserve to hear the truth."
Reiji finally spoke. "You may return to Heartland and deliver the message. But I expect your return in a week. Agreed?"
Yuto stood from the bed and gave a nod. "Understood. I'll make sure the Resistance knows what's really happening."
He picked up his Duel Disk and gave Shun a firm look. "Take care of yourself until then."
"You too," Shun replied, his voice steadier than it had been in weeks.
As Yuto left the room, Reiji turned to Ryuki. "I have other matters to attend to. If you need anything, ask Nakajima who is on standby outside."
Ryuki met his gaze. "We'll handle the rest."
With a nod, Reiji exited the ward.
The room was quiet again. For a long moment, Shun simply stared at the now-closed door. Then he looked at Ryuki.
"I owe you an apology."
Ryuki raised a brow. "You don't need to."
"Yes, I do," Shun said firmly. "I let my hatred guide me. I nearly carded innocent people. That's not something the old me would've done. But you stopped me."
Ryuki simply offered a faint smile. "That's what duelists do. We show each other the path."
Shun chuckled dryly. "Hmph."
-----
The tension in the private hospital room had finally begun to settle. With Yuto having departed, and Reiji excusing himself to tend to other pressing matters, only Ryuki, Ruri, Rin, and Shun remained behind. Though the air had grown more still, the conversation was far from over.
Shun, still seated on the hospital bed with light bandages on his arms, finally turned to Ryuki with a calm but curious tone. "So... how exactly did you manage to rescue my sister and Rin from Academia?"
Ryuki leaned against the wall, arms crossed, his gaze sharp with memory. "I infiltrated Academia's island directly," he began. "Finding the blind spots, slipped past their surveillance systems. Once I got inside, I hacked into their mainframe and located the cell blocks where Ruri and Rin were being held. At the same time, I copied every sensitive file I could find-troop movements, R\&D projects, duel disk schematics, even the Arc Area Project's latest revisions."
Shun blinked. "You went in alone?"
"I did," Ryuki answered coolly. "It's better for me to act alone in that kind of mission. Once I had their locations, I moved. The prison tower was guarded around the clock, I knocked them out cold before the alarms triggered."
Ruri glanced at her brother, then back to Ryuki, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. "I was crying when he found us," she admitted softly.
Shun narrowed his eyes. "Did they... do anything to you?"
Ruri quickly shook her head. "No. They didn't hurt us. I was locked up the whole time. They kept us separated, Rin and I, but we were guarded constantly. They never gave us a moment of freedom."
Ryuki nodded grimly. "I had to fight off a squad of soldiers to break their cell open. Just when I thought we were clear, we ran into the one who captured them in the first place."
Shun's eyes sharpened. "Who?"
"His name is Yuri," Ryuki replied. "He looks exactly like Yuto. Same face, but that's where the similarities end. He's ruthless. Enjoys the hunt. He came after us the moment we tried to escape."
Rin continued. "Ryuki dueled him. He almost didn't make it. Yuri is unlike any duelist I've ever seen. The way he smiles... the way he toys with his opponents... it was terrifying."
"But you won," Shun said, looking Ryuki in the eyes.
Ryuki nodded. "Barely. And after the duel, the rebels helped us escape the island. It wasn't easy, but we made it back with our lives."
There was a long pause. Shun looked down, then slowly back up. "Then... I owe you everything. You saved my sister. Thank you."
Ryuki smiled faintly. "Don't mention it. It was part of my mission."
Still, Shun couldn't help but notice something had changed in Ruri-subtle but unmistakable. His eyes narrowed slightly. "Ruri, your outfit... your accessories. You used to wear feathers. Now it's... coral?"
Ruri hesitated, and her expression dropped. Rin's smile faded as well.
Ryuki stepped in gently. "Shun... before you say anything, I need you to keep your temper in check."
"Why?" Shun asked, suspicious. "What happened?"
Wordlessly, Ruri reached into her bag and pulled out a single blank card.
Shun's eyes widened. "Is that...?"
"My Lyrical Luscinia deck," Ruri whispered. "It's gone. This is all that remains."
The atmosphere shifted immediately. Shun's hands clenched into fists.
"How?" he demanded, his voice trembling.
Ryuki spoke calmly. "When Ruri was taken, Yuto lost control. The grief, the rage-it awakened something within him. His dragon, Dark Rebellion, snapped. Ruri's cards-her deck-tried to shield her from the backlash. But in the end..."
"...it was a massacre," Ruri finished quietly.
Shun stood frozen. His eyes were locked on the blank card in his sister's hands, and for a long moment, he didn't say anything. The silence was deafening.
"What deck do you use now?" he finally asked, his voice a low rasp.
Ruri reached into her pouch and pulled out her current cards. "Aqua Force. A new deck that Ryuki gave me. One designed for swift strikes and relentless momentum."
Shun flipped through a few of the cards. He blinked. "I've never seen these before... the tactics are... brutal."
Rin stepped in beside her. "Ryuki gave me a deck too. My old one-Winter Witch-was destroyed when I was captured. Now I run Royal Paladins."
She showed him her own blank card, and Shun's lips thinned.
It was then that Shun realized something else-something even more unexpected. His sister was standing unusually close to Ryuki. Too close. He raised an eyebrow.
"...What exactly is your relationship with my sister?"
Ruri's face turned bright red. "I... I'm with Ryuki," she said softly.
Shun's mouth opened slightly, his expression dumbfounded. For a long moment, nothing came out.
"...I'm sorry, what?"
"She's my girlfriend," Ryuki confirmed.
Normally, Shun would have leapt out of bed and tried to punch him. But after getting burned-literally and figuratively-in their duel, and having now heard all Ryuki had done to save his sister, he knew better. Instead, he exhaled deeply and asked with reluctant restraint:
"...How did this happen?"
Ruri smiled faintly. "It started during the duel with Yuri. At first, I was scared. He used Fusion, and I flinched. But when his dragon looked at me... I felt safe. Warm. It wasn't like Academia's monsters-it was something else entirely."
She took Ryuki's hand. "During our time in the rebel base, he trained me. He believed in me. He protected both Rin and me. And somewhere along the way... I fell for him."
Shun then turned his gaze toward Rin. "And you? Are you... involved too?"
Ryuki opened his mouth, but Ruri answered for him. "Yes. We're together."
Shun blinked again. "You mean... you and Ryuki... and Rin...?"
Rin nodded. "It's complicated, but it works. I love them both. Ryuki gives us purpose and strength. And Ruri gives me hope and peace. I won't lie-my time with Yugo was good... but this? This is something I never thought I'd have. A normal life. A real future."
Shun's face contorted into a mix of confusion and understanding. "Yugo? Who's that?"
"My childhood friend," Rin said. "He has the same face as Yuto. We grew up together in the Synchro Dimension."
Recognition flashed in Shun's eyes. "Wait. We encountered someone like that in Heartland... He attacked Yuto out of nowhere."
Ryuki folded his arms. "Then its likely Yugo mistook Yuto for Yuri. It's not his fault. But if he's anything like Yuto... then he's probably searching for Rin."
Shun sighed, rubbing his temples. "So the Synchro Dimension isn't aligned with Academia at all..."
"Just a misunderstanding," Rin confirmed.
Shun looked down, ashamed. "I'm sorry, Rin. For what we did to your friend."
"It's alright," she said gently. "You were doing what you thought was right. And besides, if Yugo comes here by any chance, I'll just knock some sense into him like I always do."
Shun looked back to Ryuki. "You've done more for my sister than I ever could. I'll leave her in your hands. But promise me something."
Ryuki nodded.
"Protect her. With your life."
Ryuki's eyes narrowed in unwavering conviction. "Always. Ruri and Rin mean everything to me. I'll protect them even if it costs me my life."
The intensity in his voice left no room for doubt.
And then, it was Ryuki's turn to speak.
"There's more you need to know," he began. "About me."
Ryuki sat down and told Shun everything-his origins from another world where Vanguard was the dominant game, his status as the fifth strongest cardfighter in the world, and his achievements across Europe.
Shun listened intently, stunned. "So you're not even from this reality..."
"No," Ryuki said. "But that doesn't change what I fight for."
Shun slowly nodded. "Alright... You're the real deal."
With the air now open and honest, Ryuki looked toward Ruri and Rin. Both girls gave him a firm nod. It was time.
"Now, I'll tell you what Akaba Leo is truly planning."
For the next hour, Ryuki explained everything-the Arc Area Project, Revival Zero, the truth about Ray Akaba, and the history of the Four Dimensions. Shun listened, his expression growing darker and darker with each word.
By the end, he was trembling. Not in fear-but in fury.
"So all of Heartland... all of us... were just fuel for Leo's plan? And he's planning to sacrifice my sister and three others just to revive his dead daughter?"
Ryuki nodded solemnly. "That's the truth."
Shun clenched his fists. "I should go to Academia right now and burn it down."
"You'll be outnumbered," Ryuki said. "You're a strong duelist, but you'll be walking into a den of lions alone."
Shun gritted his teeth. "Then we stop him together."
A pause. Then Ryuki nodded.
"But what about Yuto?" Shun asked. "If this Zarc is real... then isn't Yuto-?"
"Yuto's alright now," Ryuki reassured him. "I beat him in a duel. The darkness in him is gone."
"...That was you?"
Ryuki nodded. "I found him at the docks. He came at me with everything he had. I calmed him down... and now, he's at peace."
Shun sighed, a long exhale of relief. "Thank you... again."
Just then, the door opened. Nakajima stepped in. "The President is calling for you. He's waiting for you all in his office."
Shun swung his legs over the side of the bed. His body still ached, but he was determined to walk. As he struggled to stand, Ruri came to his side and helped him up, her brother leaning slightly on her shoulder.
The four of them-Ryuki, Ruri, Rin, and Shun-made their way out of the room, their eyes set toward the future. Toward Reiji. Toward the inevitable confrontation with Leo Akaba.
The storm was coming. But for now, they stood together.
And that made all the difference.
-----
The elevator doors slid open with a soft chime, revealing the familiar dark-paneled interior of Akaba Reiji's office. The atmosphere was tense, as if the very air had solidified into something heavy with purpose. Ryuki, Ruri, Rin, and Shun stepped in and were promptly greeted by Reiji, standing stoically behind his desk.
But they weren't the only ones present.
Standing just beside Reiji were two identically sized boys, their posture disciplined and their presence quiet yet keen. They both wore ninja-style uniforms, the boy on the left clad in red, and the one on the right in deep blue.
Reiji spoke first, his voice as composed as ever. "Welcome. You're right on time."
Ryuki's gaze sharpened. "Who are they?"
Reiji gestured calmly. "These two are elite duelists from the Fuma Duel School-Hikage, in red, and Tsukikage, in blue. The Fuma school specializes in ninjutsu-based dueling tactics. Their speed, stealth, and information gathering are among the best in the city."
Ryuki nodded thoughtfully, a subtle smile flickering at the corners of his lips. The Nubatama branch back home would love these two...
Ruri and Rin exchanged glances, impressed by the ninja twins' quiet aura. Meanwhile, Shun stepped forward, arms crossed. "So, what do you need us for?"
Reiji's expression didn't change. "I've called you here because there's a growing problem-one that needs to be dealt with swiftly and discreetly. There's been a sharp rise in Underground Duels."
"Underground?" Rin asked, tilting her head.
"What are those?" Ruri followed up, brows furrowed in concern.
Hikage answered, his tone serious. "Underground Duels are unsanctioned duels held outside of the laws governing Duel Schools or sanctioned entertainment circuits. High-stakes gambling is involved."
"And the danger is very real," Tsukikage continued. "These duels use modded duel disks that bypass safety protocols. Damage becomes physical. Bones can break. People can die."
Ruri and Rin grimaced in unison. Rin clenched her fists. "Why would anyone even support something like that?"
Ryuki answered grimly. "Because people are always hungry for more. Action Duels were the high point of entertainment... but that wasn't enough. They wanted to see the other side-the blood, the pain. It's not about strategy anymore. It's about survival."
Reiji gave a brief nod. "Precisely. And that is why I need the both of you-Ryuki, Shun-to help Hikage and Tsukikage in tracking down and dismantling these illegal circuits. Not only are they a danger to civilians, but it's possible Academia agents may be using them to scout or test recruits."
Shun's eyes narrowed. "What's in it for me?"
Reiji didn't flinch. "LDS will provide you with anything you need-resources, tech, intel. You'll have full backing, and your involvement will give us a legitimate reason to access certain channels and records that are otherwise sealed."
Shun crossed his arms, then nodded. "Deal."
Ryuki's reply was swift. "Count me in."
"Good," Reiji said. "The operation begins in two days. A major match is rumored to take place, one that will draw in several high-profile participants and their financiers. That's when we strike."
As the two ninja boys bowed in silent acknowledgement, their figures suddenly vanished into thin air, leaving nothing but a faint breeze behind.
Shun blinked. "...That's a neat trick."
"They are trained in more than just dueling," Reiji remarked.
Shun looked around the office, then back at Reiji. "Where will I be staying?"
"You'll remain here in LDS. I'll need to borrow your duel disk temporarily," Reiji said. "There's a dimensional transporter in your deck's database. I want to replicate it for potential use in interdimensional transport."
Shun nodded slowly. "I see... And Ryuki?"
"I'm staying at an apartment with Ruri and Rin," Ryuki answered. "We used funds Yusho gave us to settle in. I've also started teaching at You Show Duel School, and both of them are enrolled in Maiami High."
Shun gave a faint smile. "So she really is living a normal life again..."
As Ryuki, Ruri, and Rin turned to leave, Shun looked at Reiji one last time. "I still don't understand. Why go against your own father?"
Reiji's expression darkened slightly. "Because he abandoned my mother and me. That alone is reason enough. But above all... his plans threaten everything."
Shun said nothing more. He merely nodded, then looked out the window, wondering just how deep the rabbit hole would go.
Meanwhile, back in Heartland...
The moon hung high above the ruined city of Heartland, casting pale light over fractured buildings and scarred pavement. Beneath its light, Yuto approached one of the few remaining structures still standing: a duel school once brimming with young minds, now repurposed as the heart of the Resistance.
As he stepped inside, the lights flickered on. Familiar faces looked up-tired, wary, but hopeful.
Allen, a short but determined fighter with tousled reddish-brown hair, immediately rose from his seat. "Yuto!"
Yuto nodded. "I've returned... with information."
The small group gathered quickly. Faces once filled with grim resolve now braced with anticipation. Sayaka, a girl with lavender hair and spectacles, pushed her clipboard aside and stepped closer.
"What did you find?" she asked.
Yuto exhaled. "Standard is not aligned with Academia. In fact... Akaba Reiji, Leo's son, is preparing to take a stand against his father. He's assembling forces as we speak."
Murmurs of disbelief passed through the room. One of the older resistance members frowned. "You sure this isn't a ploy?"
Yuto nodded. "I heard it directly from Reiji himself. They're working to resist Academia from within. They even sheltered Shun and me."
Relief washed over several faces. Sayaka leaned against the wall, visibly letting go of the tension in her shoulders.
"That's not all," Yuto continued. "Sakaki Yusho... is alive."
Everyone in the room froze.
"He's the one leading the rebels within Academia."
Gasps rang out. Allen's eyes widened. "But... everyone thought he abandoned us."
Sayaka shook her head. "You're telling us he's inside Academia now?"
Yuto explained everything. How Yusho had defeated a high-ranking commander only to be transported directly into Academia by force. How, in the shadows of the enemy's own halls, Yusho had gathered like-minded duelists to resist Leo's ambitions.
"The rebels are the reason Heartland has been relatively quiet these past weeks," Yuto said. "They've been buying us time."
The skepticism was fading quickly now, replaced by something rarer: hope.
"Yusho-sensei's not a coward," Sayaka whispered. "He never was."
"And that's not all," Yuto said, smiling faintly. "Ruri is alive. She's safe."
Sayaka's hands flew to her mouth, her eyes brimming. "She's... really okay?"
"She is," Yuto nodded. "She's in Standard. One of the rebels rescued her-she's safe."
Sayaka looked away, a tear slipping from her eye. "I've blamed myself for what happened to her... for so long. Thank you. Thank you, Yuto."
Another resistance member, older and gruffer, asked, "And Shun? Why didn't he come back with you?"
Yuto looked down, ashamed. "We made a mistake. A big one. We... we carded duelists in Standard, thinking they were Academia agents. Shun took it too far. I tried to stop him, but-"
Sayaka cut him off, her voice stern but not cruel. "You both let your anger cloud your judgment. Innocents got caught in the crossfire."
"I know," Yuto said quietly. "And I'm sorry."
Allen stepped forward. "What now?"
"I return to Standard in one week," Yuto replied. "Reiji needs me back. The mission continues."
"Then we'll use the time wisely," another fighter said. "We can spread this intel across the resistance networks."
"With Academia patrols thinning out," Allen added, "we can dispatch messengers at dawn."
Yuto nodded. "Do it."
Sayaka looked at him with a mixture of pride and worry. "Will you be alright, Yuto?"
"I've slept three days straight," he said with a dry smile. "I'm fine."
Allen clapped him on the back. "You're one of the last of us still standing. If you need anything-rest, food-just ask."
Yuto nodded, appreciating the gesture.
Later that night, he stood on the balcony of the ruined school, gazing up at the moon. The sky seemed clearer than it had in weeks. The wind was cold, but not bitter. For the first time in a long while, there was movement... not just of strategy or strength, but of hope.
"We're not alone anymore..." Yuto murmured.
The time for reckoning was coming.
And the resistance would be ready.
-----
The sun rose over Maiami City like a curtain rising before a grand performance. The streets were alive with energy, and every duel school across the city pulsed with excitement. Today was the day-the long-anticipated Maiami Championship had finally arrived. Duelists from every corner of the city, from prestigious academies to humble grassroots schools, were prepared to clash and prove their mettle on the grandest stage in the Standard Dimension.
Inside the dazzling structure of the Maiami Arena, preparations were reaching their crescendo. Staff bustled about, duel fields were calibrated, and massive monitors blazed the tournament's emblem high into the air.
But for Ryuki, the past week and a half had been anything but restful.
Between orchestrating covert raids on the underground dueling circuit with Shun, Hikage, and Tsukikage, and helping both Rin and Ruri fine-tune their decks, Ryuki had scarcely had time to breathe. In just five days, the four of them had successfully dismantled 20 illegal dueling events scattered across the city. When Yuto returned to Standard and joined the operation, the team's efficiency skyrocketed-10 more locations shut down in a mere two days.
It was grueling work, kept strictly under wraps from the public, but Reiji had seen fit to reward their efforts. Discreetly, of course. All four duelists were compensated for their success, including Shun and Yuto, whose knowledge of the underground networks and sheer skill had proven invaluable.
Ryuki, as always, had his suspicions. "If the truth ever gets out," he'd warned Reiji, "there could be backlash."
"I'll take care of it," Reiji had replied, calm and calculated as ever.
Now, with the city secure and the dark corners of its dueling world cleansed, Ryuki had spent the last four days pouring himself into supporting Ruri and Rin. Together, they carefully integrated new options into their decks: a Synchro-Tuner for Rin to enhance her versatility, and a selection of Rank-Up Magic cards for Ruri to unleash new evolutions of her Aqua Force units.
Today was their moment.
The stadium buzzed with voices-excitement, nerves, anticipation. In the staging area, Ruri and Rin stood with Yuzu and the younger You Show students-Ayu, Futoshi, and Tatsuya-while looking around for Ryuki. He was nowhere in sight.
Yuzu, scanning the crowd anxiously, voiced what many of them were thinking. "Where's Yuya?"
Futoshi scratched his head. "He's not at the Duel School either."
Ayu and Tatsuya looked around nervously, but before their worries could fester, a familiar face approached.
Yoko Sakaki, Yuya's energetic and ever-supportive mother, gave them a reassuring smile. "Ryuki left earlier to go pick up Yuya. Said he knew where he'd find him."
"Really?" Yuzu tilted her head. "Where would he go?"
As if on cue, footsteps echoed through the corridor.
Yuya appeared alongside Ryuki.
"Sorry I'm late," Yuya said sheepishly.
Yuzu rushed to his side, clearly relieved. "You had us worried! Where were you?"
"I just needed some time," Yuya admitted. "I went to the bridge to clear my head. The view... helps."
Ryuki nodded behind him. "I figured he'd be there. The breeze and the ocean-it calms the heart."
But the moment of peace shattered when Yuya was suddenly shoved forward. He nearly lost his balance, only to be caught by a quick-handed Sora.
"Yuya!" Yuzu cried out.
Ryuki's gaze darkened as he looked toward the culprit.
Towering slightly over Yuya was a broad-shouldered student, his salmon-red and black hair pulled back into a messy ponytail. His eyes gleamed with arrogance and menace.
Ankokuji Gen. A senior at Maiami High-and a longtime tormentor of Yuya's.
"Well, well," Gen sneered. "Look who finally showed up. Surprised you didn't run off like your old man."
Yuya, to his credit, didn't flinch. He met Gen's gaze with a hard stare. "Is that all you have to say?"
Gen's smug expression faltered. He stepped forward, raising a hand as if to grab Yuya by the collar-but a steel grip stopped him in his tracks.
Gongenzaka.
The towering duelist stepped between them, his stern glare fixed on Gen. "Back off."
Gen growled. "I'm your senpai, Gongenzaka."
"Not anymore," Gongenzaka replied coldly. "You were exiled from the Gongenzaka Dojo. You have no right to speak to me."
Yuya exhaled, grateful for the timely intervention. Ryuki, watching silently, turned to Ruri and Rin.
"You two. Give it your all today."
They nodded in unison, and Ryuki slipped away into the shadows of the corridor.
Just then, his Duel Disk pinged. A message from Reiji: "Report to the Arena Command Center."
Ryuki sighed. And so it begins again.
At the heart of the arena, Nico Smiley stood on the central platform, his trademark grin as wide as ever. The crowd erupted into cheers as he addressed the competitors and audience alike.
"Welcome, duelists! This year's Maiami Championship is unlike any before it! With duelists from across the city competing, only the best will rise to the top!"
He raised a card high into the air. "Each of you has been given a Participant Registration Card. Insert them into your Duel Disks and find out who you'll face and when!"
A chorus of beeps and holographic projections lit up the air as duelists complied.
Yuzu, Rin, Ruri, Yuya, Gongenzaka, Ayu, Futoshi, and the rest of the You Show students examined their matchups.
"I got Sawatari?!" Yuya exclaimed as Sawatari slowly apporaching Yuya.
"Looks like we get our fated rematch this early. I hope you bring your all tomorrow, Sakaki Yuya!" Sawatari declared as he left with confidence.
"I'm facing Masumi?!" Yuzu exclaimed as well as Masumi looked at Yuzu and smiled.
"You can do this, Yuzu. You prepared yourself for this." Yuya gave Yuzu a pep talk and that got her focused.
"Thanks, Yuya. And to think that I will start this tournament off." Yuzu said as she sighed.
"Mine is today." Futoshi said.
"My match starts tomorrow." Tatsuya said.
"Mine is after Yuzu-nee-chan's duel." Ayu said.
"Mine is tomorrow...and it's against Ankokuji. I guess its fated for me to duel him sooner." Gongenzaka looked at his former senior as his eyes lit in determination.
"Mine is today as well and it's the last match of the day. I'm facing someone from the Knight of Duelists." Rin said as she looked at her opponent.
"Be careful, Rin. The Knight of Duelists are the third strongest duel school in this city." Yuzu warned Rin, but that alone made her more hyped up.
"What about you, Ruri-nee-chan? Who's your opponent?" Futoshi asked.
Both Ruri and Sora stared at each other as Yuya and the rest were shocked to see who is facing who.
"Wait, Ruri-nee-chan and Sora?!" Ayu gasped.
"But this is the first time that both schools will face each other!" Tatsuya exclaimed.
Sora gave Ruri a grin. "No hard feelings, okay?"
"Of course," Ruri replied politely, though her eyes held a flicker of something darker. Perfect... I've been waiting for a chance to unload everything I've felt about Academia. You'll be my message, Sora.
Meanwhile, in the Command Center, Ryuki arrived to find Reiji standing before a massive digital display. Beside him stood Shun and Yuto, each with a serious expression.
"You're here," Reiji said. "Good."
Ryuki raised an eyebrow. "You pulled me away from the arena. What's going on?"
Reiji turned to the screen. Displayed was a dark, ornate card. Its energy pulsed ominously.
"I need to ask you something," Reiji said. "This card-Drachma. Are there others like it?"
Ryuki's expression turned solemn. Shun crossed his arms. "What even is that thing?"
Ryuki stepped forward. "That's a Zeroth Dragon. One of the six forbidden dragons from my world. Weapons of pure destruction."
Shun, Yuto, and Reiji listened intently as Ryuki explained. He recounted the story of Gyze, the Dragon Deity of Destruction, and how the Zeroth Dragons were used in a desperate war to control the world. He told them of the GIRS Crisis, Stride Gate, the Diffrider Incident and the war against the Apostles, the cost of wielding such monstrous power, and the oath he made when he took Drachma's card into his deck.
"These dragons... they aren't cards," Ryuki finished. "They're forces of nature."
Shun turned to Ryuki, concern in his voice. "Is Ruri safe? I saw her deck. She's using one."
"Megiddo?" Ryuki nodded. "She's fine. Her using it is only a matter of time. And that depends on Megiddo as well."
Reiji adjusted his glasses. "So it's not just a power... it's a pact."
"Exactly," Ryuki said. "It's not about domination. It's about one's resolve. When I summoned Drachma, it wasn't because I wanted to. It was because I had to. I bet my life... and it answered."
Reiji gave a long, contemplative sigh. "You're reckless."
"I'm me," Ryuki replied with a shrug.
"I'm keeping you in the Command Center today," Reiji declared. "If something happens, I want you ready."
"Understood," Ryuki said, folding his arms as the monitors began to switch to the live feed of the arena.
The Maiami Championship had officially begun.
The spotlights flared. The crowd roared.
And the flames of destiny, once again, began to burn.
-----
The Maiami Championship roared into full swing like a celebration of dreams and determination. Each duel brought with it not only a clash of cards and skill, but a display of every duelist's soul-and their reason to fight.
The very first match of the day opened with a thunderclap of tension: Hiragi Yuzu versus Kotsu Masumi, the top student of LDS' Fusion Course. The Action Field selected for their duel was none other than the treacherous Infinity Bridge-a sprawling steel labyrinth suspended high above a seemingly endless chasm. One wrong step, and even the most talented duelists could find themselves plummeting into defeat.
Yuzu took the initiative, Fusion Summoning her beloved Schuberta the Melodious Maestra on her very first turn, her voice resonating with confident resolve. The crowd cheered, but Masumi was unfazed, countering with her signature ace, Gem-Knight Master Dia, whose polished armor and crystalline brilliance struck terror and awe in equal measure.
The duel escalated rapidly, Yuzu finding herself on the backfoot with only 300 LP remaining. Masumi, standing tall at 2000 LP, unveiled her newly enhanced ace-Gem-Knight Lady Brilliant Dia, who threatened to end the duel in a single, decisive strike.
But Yuzu had not come this far to give in.
Tapping into her spirit, her courage, and the bond she shared with her monsters, Yuzu Fusion Summoned her new finisher: Melodious Floral Saint, Bloom Diva. Elegant and radiant, Bloom Diva unleashed her unique ability-reflecting all damage back at the attacker, negating harm to herself. Masumi launched her attack with confidence, but the mirror of Bloom Diva's light punished her decisively.
Winner: Hiragi Yuzu
The audience roared. Yuzu dropped to her knees, breathless but smiling. She'd done it. Her hard work had paid off. From the stands, her friends and classmates from You Show Duel School cheered their hearts out. Even Masumi gave her a respectful nod.
The next match followed swiftly.
Ayu, the energetic little sister of the You Show students, was set to duel against none other than Akaba Reira. The youngest member of the Akaba family, Reira's solemn expression stood in stark contrast to Ayu's bubbly demeanor.
Backstage, Ruri and Rin had gently encouraged Ayu.
"Don't be nervous," Ruri said with a smile.
"Just enjoy yourself out there," Rin added. "That's what Ryuki would say."
As the duel began, something felt different. Even Yuya noticed it.
"Reira... looks nervous."
Ruri nodded somberly. "That's because Reira's lived a hard life. Reira's not just a duelist-Reira's been through more than most kids ever should."
The students around her listened closely.
"But..." Rin continued, "Reira's living better now. This duel might actually bring Reira joy."
Despite Ayu's cheerful start, Reira's dueling was razor-sharp. With methodical precision, she Fusion Summoned his trump card: C/C/C Fused Arms, Water Sword, slicing through Ayu's defenses with stoic force. The duel ended swiftly.
But Ayu, ever the optimist, smiled through her defeat. "That was fun! Good luck in your next match, Reira!"
Reira only nodded, a flicker of a smile tugging at her lips.
Winner: Akaba Reira
The third match was a whirlwind.
Futoshi took to the field with a thunderous laugh and unshakable confidence. His opponent, a duelist from the Wild West Duel School, barely got a chance to breathe. In just three turns, Futoshi clinched the win, setting a new record for fastest duel in the Maiami Junior Division.
Shuzo sobbed tears of joy from the stands. "That's my boy! You Show pride!"
As the hours passed, duel after duel saw duelists rise, fall, and shine. The first day began to dwindle, and now-only one match remained.
Inside the waiting room, Rin stood in front of the mirror, her Duel Disk clipped to her arm, adjusting the green ribbon in her hair. She inhaled deeply, mentally running through her strategies. I've got this. I have to show them what I've learned.
The door creaked open.
"Rin?"
She turned. "Ryuki!"
Her eyes lit up as she ran to him. "Where have you been? Ruri and I were looking all over for you!"
He smiled gently. "Sorry. Reiji needed me at the Command Center."
Rin gave him a small pout before softening. "Well, at least you're here now."
He stepped forward and placed a hand on her shoulder. "You've trained hard. Trust in yourself... and your deck."
Rin smiled, cheeks warming slightly. "You really believe in me, huh?"
Ryuki nodded. "I believe in you with my whole heart."
And with that, he leaned in and gave her a brief, sincere kiss on the lips.
A soft gasp escaped her before a smile bloomed. "Thanks... I'll go all out."
The stadium thundered with excitement.
Nico Smiley stepped forward once again, his voice booming through the speakers, matched only by the roar of the crowd.
"Now everyone! This is what you've all been waiting for! It's the final match of the day!"
Spotlights swirled across the field.
"In the left corner, the ace of the Knight of Duelists! A student of discipline, chivalry, and pure knightly honor! Please welcome the shining armor of Maiami-Ashley von Hazelrink!"
A loud cheer erupted as Ashley strode confidently onto the field. He wore ornate blue-themed armor, his presence proud and regal. The cape flowing from his shoulders shimmered under the lights, and his helmet glinted like polished steel.
"And in the right corner... a new challenger from You Show Duel School! But don't be fooled-she's no beginner! With plays as unpredictable as the wind, with knights at her side that strike faster than lightning! Welcome... Kazehaya Rin!"
The stadium cheered again, this time with a more explosive energy. Rin jogged into the arena, her eyes fierce, the wind catching her hair. She waved briefly to the crowd before locking eyes with her opponent.
Ashley's smile was firm, but condescending. "You wield a knight-themed deck?"
Rin blinked. "Yes?"
"It doesn't suit you," he said bluntly. "Knights demand discipline and honor. They don't belong to just anyone."
Rin narrowed her eyes. "Then you don't know anything about my knights. They chose me. And I'll show you why."
Ashley drew his sword-shaped Duel Disk and activated it. "Very well. Prove your worth."
The Action Field generated around them. A mountainous plateau surrounded by gleaming temples and snowy peaks emerged-the Holy Mountain of the United Sanctuary. The divine, solemn energy of the field hummed through the air.
Rin's Duel Disk pulsed.
She felt it-something calling from within her deck. A familiar chill. She brushed it off, focusing on the duel.
She and Ashley raised their arms as they recited the traditional chant.
"Duelists locked in battle!" Ashley shouted.
"Kicking the earth and dancing in the air alongside their monsters!" Rin echoed.
"They storm through this field!"
"Behold! This is the newest and greatest evolution of Dueling!" they declared together.
Nico raised his hand dramatically. "Action-!"
"DUEL!" both duelists roared.
The crowd exploded with excitement as Rin and Ashley took their positions.
From the Command Center, Ryuki watched intently, Reiji standing beside him.
Shun crossed his arms. "Let's see what she can do."
Ryuki smiled faintly. "She's about to show Maiami what it means to fight for the future."
As Ryuki said that, his PSYqualia activated and he saw a vision, Rin winning the duel with a gigantic white dragon behind her, as the dragon swung its blade into Ashley resulting in his loss.
Ryuki closed his eyes as he tries to remember where he saw that dragon.
Rin: 4000 | Hand: 5
Ashley: 4000 | Hand: 5