The sun had barely risen, painting the horizon with pale streaks of gold, but Ryuki was already awake. He moved quietly through the condo's kitchen, sleeves rolled up, apron tied, preparing breakfast with methodical focus. After the grueling duels from yesterday, he wanted to give the girls something hearty, something that would help them recover their strength.
The aroma of sizzling sausages and frying eggs soon filled the air, accompanied by the soft crackle of bacon on the pan. Ryuki had decided on a traditional full English breakfast—comfort food from his homeland, and one he rarely made unless it was for people he truly cared about.
As the smell spread through the living room, the door eased open and two familiar companions rolled their way in. Dran and Tigar, their metallic frames glinting faintly, returned from their brief journey to Cray. They hovered lazily before dropping down onto the sofa like tired pets coming home after a long day.
Ryuki glanced back at them while tending to the beans. "So, how was your journey?"
Dran let out a small hum before answering."We reported your cardfight against Gastille directly to Harmonics Messiah. We even mentioned how Gastille wielded a replica of Ibuki's Link Joker deck."
Ryuki's brow furrowed at the reminder, though he didn't stop cooking. That deck—just remembering it brought back the tension from the previous night.
Tigar floated a little higher, his voice calm yet firm. "Harmonics requests your presence at any time."
Ryuki paused, staring at the yolk of an egg as if deep in thought. Then, a small smile touched his lips. "I see... I think I might have just the thing to present once we meet." He didn't elaborate further, leaving the two Zodiac Beasts tilting their heads in curiosity.
The quiet morning was soon broken by soft footsteps. Emi emerged from her room, her hair slightly messy from sleep, but her smile bright as she greeted, "Good morning, Ryuki-kun."
"Morning, Emi," Ryuki replied, flipping a slice of fried bread. "How was your sleep?"
"Exactly what I needed," she admitted with a stretch. Her gaze shifted to the sofa, where Dran and Tigar had made themselves comfortable. "Oh! Welcome back, you two."
Dran bobbed in acknowledgment, while Tigar gave a small wave of his metallic paw. Emi's curiosity soon drifted back to the kitchen, her nose twitching at the savory aroma. "What are you making?"
"A full English breakfast," Ryuki answered matter-of-factly.
Her eyes widened, excitement sparking instantly. "That was the very first dish you ever cooked for me!"
Ryuki chuckled softly. "I remember. You nearly finished half the plate by yourself."
Before Emi could retort, the sharp buzz of the intercom cut through the air. Both turned, surprised at such an early call.
"Can you check that? My hands are full," Ryuki asked, carefully plating sausages.
Emi nodded and rushed to the panel. The screen flickered on, revealing Yuya and Yuzu standing outside. Behind them was Gongenzaka—his face partially covered with fresh bandages. Emi gasped, quickly telling the staff to escort them upstairs.
Moments later, the doorbell rang. Emi opened it and immediately hurried to Gongenzaka's side. "What happened to you?!"
The burly duelist scratched his cheek sheepishly. "Father... got a little too intense with training last night. Things escalated."
"A little too intense?" Emi repeated incredulously. "You look like you went ten rounds with a truck!"
Yuya stepped in quickly, changing the subject. "Ah—my mom made pancakes and asked me to bring some over." He lifted the large box in his arms with a proud grin.
Emi's eyes lit up like stars. "Ryuki! Yuya's mother brought pancakes!"
Ryuki, still tending to the stove, smiled knowingly. "Then breakfast just became a feast. Perfect timing." He gestured for them to sit. "You're all welcome to join."
The three happily accepted, taking off their coats and settling in.
Not long after, the sound of yawns echoed from the hallway. Ruri and Rin emerged from their rooms, still in their pajamas, and blinked in surprise at the sight of unexpected guests.
"Yuya? Yuzu? Gongenzaka? What are you guys doing here so early?" Rin asked, rubbing her eyes.
Before Yuya could answer, Dran and Tigar floated into the open. Their sudden appearance made the newcomers nearly jump.
Yuya leaned closer, narrowing his eyes at Dran. Recognition flickered. "Wait a second... That's the same Chrono Dran card Ryuki carries, isn't it?"
Emi quickly stepped in, smiling warmly. "They're not just cards. Dran and Tigar are real living beings."
The two Zodiac Beasts hovered gently around Yuya, Yuzu, and Gongenzaka, their mechanical wings whirring softly. The three stared in awe, realizing this was no illusion created by Solid Vision.
"They're... alive," Yuzu whispered, unable to hide her amazement.
"That explains why they spoke during your duel with Reiji," Yuya added, his tone filled with wonder.
Just then, Ryuki's voice called from the kitchen. "Alright, everyone. Breakfast is ready."
They gathered around the dining table, anticipation in the air. Ryuki carried over platter after platter until the entire surface was filled: golden fried eggs, thick sausages, crispy rashers of English bacon, dark slices of black pudding, a bubbling portion of beans, golden-brown bubble and squeak, toasted fried bread, and perfectly blistered tomatoes with a thin glaze of brulee on top.
Ruri and Rin both gawked at the spread. "You cooked all of this?!"
Ryuki set down the last plate and nodded. "Finding the right ingredients in this city wasn't easy, but it was worth it. This—" he gestured proudly to the table "—is a piece of home. England's classic breakfast."
Yuya then opened the box he had brought, and instantly the girls' jaws dropped. Inside were twenty-four neatly stacked pancakes, perfectly golden.
"Twenty-four?!" Emi exclaimed, her voice nearly a squeak.
Ryuki raised a brow, half amused, half exasperated. "Yuya... isn't that a bit much?"
"This is normal for me," Yuya said with complete seriousness, though the sparkle in his eyes betrayed his excitement.
Ryuki sighed, shaking his head, but he couldn't suppress a smile. "Then let's not waste any of it."
The group finally sat down, plates filled and laughter filling the condo as the morning light spilled warmly through the windows. After battles, after chaos and uncertainty, the simple act of sharing food together felt like a gift.
For a while, there were no duels, no looming threats—just friends, pancakes, and the taste of home.
-----
After finishing breakfast, Ruri and Rin excused themselves to change into their clothes, leaving Ryuki and the rest waiting for them in the living room. Once they were ready, the group set out together, their destination clear: LDS, and more specifically, Reiji Akaba's office.
The streets of Maiami were busier than usual that morning, yet when the citizens noticed Ryuki and his companions, the atmosphere shifted. People stopped what they were doing, waving at them, calling out words of encouragement. Some thanked them for their courage, others offered blessings for the battles ahead. Children tugged at their parents' hands, pointing wide-eyed at the heroes who had stood against Academia's might.
Ryuki, though not one to bask in praise, acknowledged the people with a calm nod. He understood their gratitude, but their cheers also reminded him of the weight resting on his shoulders. Every hopeful face he passed strengthened his resolve—failure was no longer an option.
After several minutes of walking, the towering structure of LDS loomed before them. At the entrance, Nakajima was already waiting, as vigilant as ever.
"Morning," Ryuki greeted. "Have the others arrived yet?"
Nakajima shook his head. "Not yet. You're the first group to come."
"Good. We'll head up to Reiji's office in the meantime," Ryuki replied.
"Understood. I'll stay here to welcome the rest."
With that, Ryuki led his companions inside. The familiar polished halls of LDS were eerily quiet, as though the building itself sensed the seriousness of today's meeting. When they reached the office, Reiji was already there, standing behind his desk with his usual composed demeanor. To their surprise, Reira was by his side.
Ryuki frowned slightly. "Reiji... why is Reira here?"
Reiji's eyes, sharp yet steady, moved to his younger sibling. "Because she will be joining the Lancers."
The announcement sent ripples of shock through the room.
"Joining?!" Yuya blurted out. "Reiji, she's just a child! Are you seriously fine with sending her into a war?"
Even Gongenzaka, usually steady as a rock, looked uncertain.
But before Reiji could respond, Reira stepped forward. "I volunteered," she said, her voice steady though her small hands trembled slightly at her sides. "I want to help. I don't want to just stand by while everyone else fights."
Ryuki approached, crouching slightly so his gaze met hers at eye level. His expression softened, though his voice carried the weight of an older brother. "Reira... your courage is admirable. Truly, it is. But you're still so young. Joining a war means risking everything, and I..." He hesitated, not out of doubt but out of genuine concern. "I don't want to see your life thrown away before it even begins."
Reira clenched her fists. "I don't care if I'm young. I want to stand by my brother's side. I want to protect him, too!"
The firm declaration hung in the air. Ryuki could see her determination—it wasn't born of childish stubbornness, but of a sincere desire to contribute.
Reiji finally spoke again, his tone calm but final. "Our mother entrusted me with Reira's safety. She asked that I never leave her side, no matter the circumstance. I intend to honor that. Reira will remain with me throughout this war. Under my watch, she will not fall."
Ryuki let out a long breath, finally straightening. "...If that's the case, then I won't object. But Reira, promise me you'll listen to your brother at all times."
Reira nodded firmly.
The tension eased slightly, but only for a moment. The office doors opened, and the rest of the group entered—Yuri, Yugo, Serena, Barrett, Fubuki, Shun, and Yuto. With them, the last of those directly tied to Leo Akaba's machinations were now present.
Ryuki's gaze swept over the room. The time had come.
Taking a steadying breath, he looked to Reiji. "While we wait for Aichi and the others, there's something I must do. Yuya and Yuzu deserve to know the truth. If they go into this blind, they'll never be ready for what's coming."
Reiji raised a brow. "Are you certain? Once spoken, these words cannot be taken back."
Ryuki nodded. "They have to know. Them—and Yuri. Each of them is a crucial piece of Academia's plan, whether they realize it or not."
Yuya and Yuzu exchanged confused looks, while Yuri's brow furrowed. None of them understood why they were so central to Leo's schemes, and the mystery only fueled their unease.
Ryuki stepped forward, his voice heavy with solemnity. "Yuya, Yuzu, Yuri... what I'm about to tell you is the unvarnished truth. I'll only say this once, so listen well."
Reiji pressed a button on his desk, activating the office's soundproofing field. The hum of energy sealed the room, cutting them off from any prying ears. Silence fell, thick and suffocating.
And then, Ryuki began. He spoke of the four dimensions and their fractured nature. Of Zarc—the duelist whose brilliance and love for dragons descended into uncontrollable madness. Of Ray, the girl who sacrificed herself to seal Zarc away, shattering both him and herself across the four dimensions. Of Leo Akaba's relentless obsession with reuniting his daughter by any means necessary.
Each revelation widened Yuya's eyes, his fists tightening with every word. Yuzu trembled, tears already forming as the pieces fell into place. Gongenzaka and Fubuki, who had lingered in the back, could only stand in stunned silence.
But when Ryuki reached the part about the Arc Area Project—Leo's plan to use the countless souls trapped in cards as fuel for Revival Zero—Yuya snapped. His voice shook with fury. "He's using people... as fuel? That's—!" He slammed his fist on the desk, the sound echoing like a war drum. "And Yuzu... he planned to kidnap her—kill her—and the others, just to bring back his daughter?!"
Yuzu covered her mouth, sobbing softly. The thought of being nothing more than a sacrifice tore through her heart like jagged glass.
And then there was Yuri. For so long, he had obeyed Leo without question, convinced that loyalty would someday earn him the answers he sought. But hearing this truth... the betrayal burned deeper than any wound. His lips curled into a bitter sneer. "So that's what I was to him... nothing more than a pawn." His fists clenched, nails digging into his palms. The hunger for vengeance within him ignited brighter than ever before.
Still, the revelation was not done.
Ryuki's next words struck even harder. "Yuya. Yuto. Yugo. Yuri. If the four of you were ever to merge again... Zarc would return. And he would destroy everything."
Yuya paled, his heart pounding violently in his chest. He had struggled all this time to keep his other selves together, to find harmony, to ensure their shared existence was never twisted into something monstrous. The thought of Zarc's return made his entire body tremble.
But before despair could consume them, Ryuki continued. "Do not fear. That fate has already been prevented. The darkness within you—within all of you—has been purged."
Yuri blinked in disbelief. "Purged? What are you talking about?"
Ryuki's expression was steady, resolute. "I rid you of your darkness the first time we met back in Academia. Yuto's darkness was erased weeks before the Maiami Championships. Rin sealed Yugo's when she fought him herself. And as for Yuya... I've already ensured the darkness cannot touch you again."
The tension in the room shifted. Where moments ago there had been only despair and anger, now there was the faintest glimmer of relief.
Still, Ryuki was not done. He gestured toward Ruri and Rin. "And even if Leo's plan had continued, it would no longer work. The decks of the Bracelet Girls were once vital to his scheme. But look."
Ruri and Rin retrieved their old decks, placing them on the table. The once-brilliant cards were now blank, lifeless husks.
Yuya and Yuzu gasped.
"When they took up new paths—Ruri with Aqua Force, Rin with Royal Paladins—they severed Leo's designs entirely. His Revival Zero is already useless."
The room absorbed the revelation in silence. Finally, Fubuki spoke, his voice grave. "Then what should we do? What is our next step?"
Ryuki's eyes hardened, his tone decisive. "We stop Akaba Leo. At any cost. His plans don't just threaten the Four Dimensions—they threaten my world as well. If he succeeds, there will be no place left untouched by his madness."
The determination in his voice left no room for doubt. Everyone in the room knew, from that moment forward, that the coming battles would decide the fate of more than just their homes—it would decide the fate of existence itself.
After Ryuki revealed the entire truth to Yuya and Yuzu, the atmosphere in the room grew heavy with silence. Moments later, the sound of approaching footsteps broke the tension. One by one, the rest of the cardfighters arrived—Dennis, Ashley, and Sawatari stepping in at the same time with their usual dramatic flair. Not long after, Tsuchikage and Hikage entered in quiet unison.
With that, all the chosen duelists had gathered. The chamber seemed to breathe with a mixture of unease and anticipation. At the center of it all, Akaba Reiji finally rose from his seat, the calm authority in his movements drawing everyone's eyes. His tone carried weight as he began.
"Now that we are all here," Reiji said, surveying the room, "I believe it is best that we hold a proper introduction. We are not merely a collection of duelists thrown together by circumstance. We must understand who we are, where we come from, and the paths that brought us here. Only then can we fight as one. I will begin. My name is Akaba Reiji, President of the Leo Duel School. This is my adopted sister, Reira."
Reira, standing beside him, nodded lightly. Though she said nothing, her presence radiated quiet resolve.
Sawatari leaned forward with a skeptical look, while Ashley tilted his head slightly in polite curiosity. Both seemed to question Reiji's decision. Sawatari, of course, was the first to voice it.
"Wait, wait, wait. You're seriously letting her participate? She doesn't even look like she could win a children's duel festival."
Ashley's tone was gentler but echoed the concern. "She is quite young, President Akaba. Is it truly wise to place her amidst this battlefield?"
Reiji's response came swift and unwavering. "Reira will not be alone. She will remain by my side at all times. That is the path I have chosen for her."
Ashley studied Reiji's eyes and found no hesitation in them. He nodded, accepting the answer. "Very well. I trust your judgment."
With that settled, Dennis decided to brighten the air with his trademark charm. He stepped forward, one hand on his chest and the other sweeping in a theatrical bow.
"Well then, allow me to continue! My name is Dennis Macfield, an exchange student from the LDS Broadway Course. It is an absolute honor to perform and fight alongside you all!"
The sparkle in his voice made it clear he was aiming to lighten the mood.
Next came Ashley, straightening his uniform before introducing himself with formality. "I am Ashley von Hazelrink, a member of the Knight of Duelist. To stand here among fellow warriors gives me great pride. I will serve faithfully in this campaign."
The contrast between Ashley's knightly discipline and Dennis's flamboyant energy drew a few faint smiles.
Not to be outdone, Sawatari puffed out his chest and spoke with his usual grandiosity. "And now, it is time for the star to shine! I am Sawatari Shingo, proud member of LDS! Watch closely, for my dazzling dueling will leave you all speechless!"
Yuya sighed and muttered under his breath, "Some things never change..." Yuzu had to stifle a laugh.
The next to step forward was Gongenzaka, his stance as firm as his voice. "I am Gongenzaka Noboru, heir to the Gongenzaka Dojo and practitioner of Steadfast Dueling! I look forward to proving the honor of my dojo alongside you all."
His introduction carried the weight of sincerity, grounding the room after Sawatari's flare.
Then, in perfect synchronization, two figures spoke. "I am Fuma Tsuchikage." "And I am his twin brother, Fuma Hikage." Their voices overlapped seamlessly. "We hail from the Fuma Ninja Duel School."
Their sharp, disciplined tone carried the aura of shadows. Several duelists found themselves straightening up instinctively at their presence.
After them, Yuya raised his hand casually, breaking the formality. "As most of you already know, I'm Sakaki Yuya. Beside me is Hiragi Yuzu. We're both from You Show Duel School."
Yuzu offered a polite bow to everyone, her eyes determined despite the heaviness in the air.
Next came the Resistance fighters from the Xyz Dimension. Shun crossed his arms, his tone clipped and edged with distrust. "Hmph. I'll play along with this. I am Kurosaki Shun. Behind me is my sister, Ruri, and beside her is my friend, Kuroyami Yuto. We are from the Xyz Dimension and part of the Resistance fighting against Academia."
Every word he spoke was sharpened with defiance, as if reminding them all of the war waiting just beyond these walls.
Ruri bowed respectfully but stayed quiet, her eyes watchful. Yuto simply nodded, his expression calm but guarded.
From the Synchro side, Rin stepped forward with a more relaxed tone. "I am Kazehaya Rin. With me is my brother in all but blood, Hayasaka Yugo. We're from the Synchro Dimension. Though we call each other siblings, we're orphans—we grew up together on the streets."
Her words made several eyes widen. Yuzu whispered, "Orphans...?"
Yuya, troubled, asked softly, "How did you two survive like that?"
Yugo scratched the back of his head but answered with unshaken honesty. "We learned to adapt. Down in the Commons, you either adapt or you don't make it. That's just how life is."
The bluntness of his words silenced the room for a moment. Even the most privileged among them felt a flicker of guilt or respect.
Then the former Academia duelists stepped forward, one after another.
Barret's voice was firm, his presence protective. "I am Barret Gomez. Once, I was sworn to Academia, serving as Serena's bodyguard. But when I learned the truth of the Professor's ambition, my honor would not allow me to follow him any longer. I chose defection—for her, and for myself."
Serena's tone was cool yet resolute. "I am Mikazuki Serena. At first, I only sought to find Ryuki and prove my worth against him. But after learning what Leo Akaba truly intends, I can no longer walk that path. I stand here now, determined to correct the wrongs of Academia."
The next introduction came with an air of charisma, though its shadow ran deep. "I am Tenjoin Fubuki," he said, smiling faintly. "An Academia alumnus, though in the Xyz Dimension they once called me the Black Dragon of Academia. But that is behind me now. When Aichi defeated me, I was freed from Darkness' control. And with that freedom, I resolved to return my alma mater to the glory it once held."
Ruri, Yuto and Shun stiffened at the mention of Darkness. Shun then remembered how he almost got beaten by him when Academia first attacked Heartland.
Finally, Yuri stepped forward, his smirk carrying a venomous edge. "And I am Kusakabe Yuri. Normally, I'd be the one tearing through your ranks. But after Akaba Leo branded me disposable and tried to kill me after I lost a duel, I decided I no longer owed him anything. Make no mistake—just because I stand here doesn't mean I want to hold hands and sing songs with you lot. I have my own reasons for destroying Academia. It just so happens our goals overlap."
The temperature in the room dropped at his words. Sawatari immediately pointed at him, bristling. "You arrogant snake! I don't trust you for a second!"
Yugo stepped up beside him, his temper flaring. "Yeah! Just because I heard your backstory from Ryuki, doesn't mean you can do anything!"
Before either could lunge, Gongenzaka blocked Sawatari with a steady hand while Rin stepped in front of Yugo. "Enough," she snapped. "This isn't the time for petty grudges."
Reiji raised his hand, his voice sharp as steel. "That is enough. As long as Yuri's objective remains the destruction of Academia, his methods are his own. I will not dictate how he pursues his vengeance, so long as our paths remain aligned."
Yuri smirked, amused. "Hmph. Works for me."
The tension lingered like static in the air, but at last, the circle of introductions had ended. Each duelist had declared not only their name, but the weight of the world they carried with them.
The hall grew quiet as another round of introductions began, and all eyes turned toward the soft-spoken young man who stepped forward.
"Now, I think it's our turn." His voice carried no arrogance, only sincerity. "My name is Sendou Aichi. Though I'm not a professional cardfighter, I can be considered one of the world's best. Currently, I'm a college student, enrolled at the California Institute of Technology, where I'm studying Astrophysics."
The revelation sent ripples through the group. Yuya blinked in astonishment, tilting his head as if trying to reconcile the Aichi he knew with the one standing before him. The timid, reserved fighter who often looked uncomfortable in the spotlight... was brilliant enough to thrive in one of the most demanding scientific fields in the world.
Before anyone could comment, a girl stepped forward, smiling brightly.
"I'm Sendou Emi," she introduced herself with grace and confidence. "I'm Aichi's younger sister, and I'm currently a candidate for Bermuda Triangle's Clan Master of the Magallanica Branch."
Ryuki's brow rose sharply at that. "Wait—Clan Master candidate? Since when?"
"Five months ago," Emi replied without hesitation as she smiled.
That left several stunned. Ashley, curious and visibly intrigued, asked the question on everyone's mind. "Just how strong are Clan Masters supposed to be?"
Ryuki answered, his tone carrying a certain weight. "Clan Masters are the strongest cardfighters in their respective clans. It isn't a title just anyone can claim—only one fighter can hold that position in each clan within every country. Emi being a candidate means she's already among the very best Bermuda Triangle users in Japan."
That statement alone widened more than a few eyes. Ruri and Rin stiffened, realizing that the cheerful girl before them wasn't just Aichi's sister—she was a powerhouse in her own right.
The introductions continued.
"Moving on," said a tall young man with piercing eyes and a measured voice. "I am Onimaru Kazumi. Former captain of Team Diffrider—the team that once held the top spot in the U-20 division."
The pride in his voice was tempered with something else—acknowledgment of change. Sawatari, never one to hold back his curiosity, leaned forward.
"You said 'former.' I take it someone dethroned you?"
Kazumi gave a short nod. "That's right. The team that beat us... was my brother's."
At that, another figure stepped forward, calm and self-assured.
"Shoji Kazuma," he said firmly. "Kazumi's half-brother. Member of Team Striders—the current number one team in the U-20 division."
The room stirred again. To some, it was shocking enough to learn of Kazumi's former glory, but realizing the sibling rivalry that defined their journey brought the picture into sharper focus.
"I am Enishi Satoru," came the next voice. Polite, controlled, and respectful. "Branch Chief of the Dark Zone branch in Japan. A pleasure to meet you all." He bowed lightly, his composure flawless.
The word Branch Chief immediately drew attention.
"Branch Chief?" Dennis echoed, puzzled. "So they're strong as well?"
"More than strong," Aichi explained, his tone matter-of-fact. "Branch Chief is a title only Clan Masters can earn after proving themselves through significant achievements. Satoru here is the youngest Branch Chief in history—he was promoted at seventeen. Now, he's nineteen."
Gasps spread through the non-cardfighters. To achieve such influence at that age was nothing short of astonishing. Even Yuri raised an eyebrow, reevaluating the man who looked so ordinary yet carried such authority.
Then another voice broke through. Firm. Confident. Carried with effortless weight.
"I am Christopher Lo. Captain of Team SIT Genius, President of Genius Communication Technology... and the Singapore Champion."
The title alone made several jaws tighten. Yuri felt his throat constrict. Until now, he had silently dismissed Christopher as an overblown name Ryuki respected too much. But remembering the tale of how this man faced Kaiser and survived—the disbelief evaporated. No ordinary fighter could boast such a feat.
Next came another declaration, this one ringing with unwavering pride.
"I'm Mitsusada Kenji. Captain of Team Caesar, and I currently hold the third rank in the world's Cardfight Rankings."
The room fell silent. Some jaws quite literally dropped. The third-strongest fighter in Ryuki's world was here, standing casually among them. To most, that rank was unthinkably high—practically untouchable. Only Ryuki, Reiji, Reira, and a few cardfighters appeared unsurprised, as though Kenji's presence was expected.
And then, finally, the man who had been quietly observing everything stepped forward. His aura was heavy, commanding, though not oppressive.
"And I'm Himejima Ryuki," he said steadily. "Clan Master of the Kagero Clan... and ranked fifth in the world, and the former United Kingdom Champion."
The title hung in the air like a thunderclap. The words Clan Master and fifth in the world pressed down with weight few could deny, but hearing that Ryuki was a former Champion got them convinced that he''s the best of the best. It was one thing to hear of Clan Masters in theory, another to see one standing in front of them—one who had already proven his strength countless times.
For the Lancers, it was humbling. For others, awe-inspiring. And for the enemies lurking beyond their walls, perhaps a warning.
Reiji's eyes swept the gathered group, his composure unshaken as always. The introductions had shifted the atmosphere entirely. What had once been a gathering of strangers now resembled an assembly of titans. The collective strength in the room was staggering—champions, masters, prodigies, and leaders, all bound together by circumstance and the battles yet to come.
Satisfied that no further words were needed, Reiji adjusted his cuffs and spoke.
"Now that we've all become acquainted, let us proceed without delay. We have a war to prepare for."
The tension in the room shifted from awe to solemn resolve. The time for pleasantries was over. The true battle—the one that would test all of their strength, resolve, and bonds—was drawing closer.
And each introduction had served as a reminder: this was no ordinary assembly. This was a gathering of some of the greatest fighters the worlds had to offer.
The meeting was about to begin.
-----
"Now, here's where we stand," Reiji began, his tone clipped and direct. "Aside from the Xyz Dimension welcoming us as allies, and Ryuki's world extending its hand in alliance, we are still unprepared if it comes to assaulting Academia."
The bluntness of his words filled the room with a silence that pressed on everyone. Shun instinctively clenched his fists. Every fiber of his being wanted to argue, to say they were ready, that they had to be ready. But the bitter truth lingered in his memory of what Barret said to him—Academia's defenses were nothing short of impenetrable, their ranks brimming with duelists who had been conditioned for war. He forced himself to stay quiet, his anger simmering.
"You said we're going for the Xyz Dimension first, right?" Yuto's calm yet strained voice cut through the silence. His sharp eyes locked onto Reiji. "That means you're going to help us liberate our home. Is that correct?"
Reiji gave a single decisive nod. "Yes. First, we go to the Xyz Dimension to liberate it from Academia's grip. After that, we turn our focus to the Synchro Dimension."
Barret stepped forward, his expression hardened like steel. "There, we'll have to deal with Jean Michel Roget. He has entrenched himself as the de facto ruler of the Synchro Dimension. He's already tightening his grip."
The unfamiliar name made Gongenzaka tilt his head. "Roget? Who is that?" he asked, his tone filled with suspicion.
Barret's voice was ice. "Jean Michael Roget was once an Academia researcher. But his ambition outgrew his loyalty. He betrayed the Professor and took control of duelists by force. Hundreds of them were mind-controlled into servitude. When the Professor deemed him a liability, Roget was exiled. Instead of vanishing, he found refuge in the Synchro Dimension... and seized power. That's what our sources said."
Rin's eyes darkened as she picked up where Barret left off. "Since the day he rose to power as the chief of Sector Security, he's ruled the Synchro Dimension through fear. He keeps the Tops obedient and has Security patrols arresting anyone they even suspect might oppose him. Age, status, innocence—it doesn't matter. Children, the elderly, entire families—he has them dragged away like criminals. Sometimes, arrests happen for no reason at all... just because the Security feel like it."
Her voice trembled with controlled rage, each word cutting sharper than a blade. The weight of her testimony pulled the atmosphere into something heavy and suffocating. Everyone present could feel it—the oppressive shadow Roget had cast over her world.
Yuya's hands balled into fists. "That's... unforgivable," he muttered, his voice shaking with indignation. Beside him, Yuzu's face mirrored both anger and pity, as she glanced at Rin with quiet worry.
The group now understood clearly why both Reiji and Ryuki insisted that their first priority should be the Xyz Dimension. Charging recklessly into Synchro while Roget's tyranny still reigned would be a mistake they couldn't afford.
Reiji, noticing the heavy silence that had taken root, shifted the discussion. His sharp gaze turned toward Ryuki and the other Vanguard cardfighters. "There is another matter. Ryuki... I want to ask about the cards you used in your battle against Gastille."
The name itself sent a faint ripple through the room. Those who had witnessed the duel shuddered, recalling the overwhelming aura of power Ryuki had drawn upon. Reiji continued, "When I attempted to have our technicians analyze them, everything was proceeding smoothly... until you summoned Demiurge."
His expression hardened. "The moment that card appeared, all the data we had gathered was erased in an instant. As if the system itself rejected the information."
The revelation startled several of the Lancers. Even Reiji's resources, which had proven capable of dissecting near any anomaly across the dimensions, had failed.
Christopher exhaled through his nose, his arms crossed with knowing disdain. "You cannot simply scan those cards as if they were ordinary constructs of data, Reiji. Vanguard cards don't bend to artificial replication. They're tied to something far deeper—to the world of Cray itself. Every cardfighter forms a connection with that world, and it's through that bond that those cards manifest."
The words carried weight, and though Reiji's expression didn't waver, a small crease of frustration tightened around his eyes.
"So," Reiji muttered, "my attempt to create functioning Vanguard cards in this dimension... has failed."
For a brief moment, the room was silent again. Then, Satoru—the composed Branch Chief—spoke with steady conviction. "Failure is not the right word, Reiji. Vanguard isn't something that can be engineered or manufactured. It is a bridge. If you truly wish for Vanguard to take root in the Standard Dimension, then what you need is not technology..." His eyes gleamed faintly, as if reflecting the weight of his position. "...but connection. If this dimension can form a link to Cray, the cards will come naturally. Through us, through the fighters who walk between the two worlds, they can exist here."
Ryuki nodded, his presence commanding yet calm. "Exactly. Forcing them won't work. But if a path opens between this world and Cray, then Vanguard will not just be an imported element—it will be a living, breathing part of this dimension, just as Duel Monsters is."
Reiji's fingers tapped against the table, his mind calculating every angle. For the first time, his meticulously crafted strategies had encountered something beyond numbers and data. Something organic. Something alive.
Shun, observing all this, let out a small breath. "So even with all of Reiji's resources, Vanguard is something that can't be controlled like Academia's tactics or Roget's oppression. It's... different."
"Different," Ryuki agreed quietly, "and that difference is what gives it strength. It isn't about domination. It's about bonds."
The word bonds struck a chord, resonating through Yuya, Yuzu, Yuto, Rin, and even the stoic Reiji himself. Everyone present knew that in this war—where survival and strategy were essential—there was also something greater at play. A force that tied not just duelists to their decks, but people to each other.
Ryuki and Christopher exchanged a knowing look before stepping forward. Everyone's eyes were on them, especially since the atmosphere still carried the weight of everything they had endured up to this point. With deliberate calm, Ryuki reached into his jacket and pulled out his FICA, the small device glinting faintly under the room's light. With a single motion, he activated it, and a holographic projection of a massive sphere filled the space in front of them.
The group gasped as the floating image rotated slowly, its surface etched with continents and regions illuminated in various hues.
"This," Ryuki began, his voice steady yet carrying a subtle gravity, "is Planet Cray. The world where our cards come from. Every time we engage in a cardfight, a reflection of that battle is fought there as well. What happens here... echoes in their reality."
His words hung heavy in the air. Even those familiar with Duel Monsters—Yuya, Yuto, Yugo, Yuri—stared at the projection with a dawning sense of awe. For them, dueling had always been a matter of soul, bond, and willpower, but here was an entirely different dimension.
"Wait, so you're telling us..." Reira's voice broke through the silence, hesitant but curious, "...that every single one of your fights is more than just a game? That they're real battles... with consequences?"
"Exactly," Christopher confirmed, stepping closer as the map shifted. "Cray is divided into six nations. Each one has its own culture, clans, and leaders. Together, they form the balance of the planet. And it's that balance that has often been tested, especially in times of war."
One by one, the nations began to glow. Yellow. Red. Violet. Green. Blue. Silver.
Ryuki gestured toward the golden-yellow expanse. "First, the United Sanctuary—the holy nation. This is a realm defined by justice, order, and the pursuit of ideals. At its heart stands the King of Knights, Alfred, of the Royal Paladin clan. Alongside them, the Shadow Paladins, Gold Paladins, Angel Feather, Genesis, and Oracle Think Tank form the Sanctuary's might. They are the guardians of light, faith, and wisdom."
The yellow region zoomed in, revealing radiant marble cities with towering spires gleaming under the simulated sunlight. The group could almost hear the echo of cathedral bells and see knights patrolling the streets in their immaculate armor. The architecture bore a stark resemblance to classical palaces, yet infused with a divine energy that seemed otherworldly.
"Woah..." Ashley muttered, unable to hide his astonishment. "It's like something out of a fairy tale. Shiny castles, noble knights... the works."
Shingo, always eager to impress, adjusted his glasses and smirked. "Indeed. It seems they embody an ideal society. But I imagine it's not all glory and perfection, is it?"
Ryuki gave a small nod. "You're right. Light always casts shadows. The Sanctuary is powerful, but its pursuit of order has often led to strict laws and sacrifices. That's why the Shadow Paladins, though part of the nation, often tread their own path."
Before the thought could linger, Christopher shifted the focus to a vast, crimson landmass. "Next—the Dragon Empire. Unlike the marbled halls of the Sanctuary, the Empire is forged from fire and raw might. Its landscape is desolate, riddled with molten cliffs and towering volcanoes. This land belongs to the dragons, and its ruler is none other than Dragonic Overlord himself."
At once, the red region expanded, showing volcanic cities and fortresses carved into mountains of fire. Lava rivers glowed in the distance, painting the scenery in molten orange. The heat seemed to radiate even through the hologram.
Yuya and the others turned instinctively to Ryuki, for they knew his ace. Their astonishment deepened when the realization sank in.
"Hold up," Yugo blurted out. "Your card—Dragonic Overlord—he's the actual leader of a nation?!"
Ryuki gave a wry smile. "Yes. The Kagero clan, which I inherited, serves directly under him. But the Dragon Empire isn't just Kagero. The Narukami, Tachikaze, Murakumo, and Nubatama also call this land their home. Together, they embody ferocity and discipline."
The revelation sparked murmurs through the group. Even Reira shrank back slightly at the sheer intensity of the imagery—an empire literally built on fire and steel.
The projection shifted again, this time casting a deep violet shadow across the room.
"The Dark Zone," Ryuki intoned, his voice dropping as if to match the eerie energy of the region. "This is where Cray's darkness resides. Demons, vampires, and those who thrive in shadow find their home here. The Dark Irregulars, Pale Moon, and Spike Brothers all hail from this place. Though there is one more—Gear Chronicle. They wander through time itself, but they use Dark Zone as their home base."
The hologram zoomed closer, revealing landscapes shrouded in perpetual twilight. Obsidian castles jutted from the earth, rivers of mist winding through desolate plains. Strange, bat-like figures glided through the skies.
Reira gripped the edge of his sleeve tightly, trembling slightly. Just the sight of it sent a chill crawling up his spine. "It feels... wrong. Like the air itself is alive and watching you."
"Darkness often carries fear," Ryuki admitted. "But even there, power is not inherently evil. Many who dwell within Dark Zone simply embrace what others fear to face."
Christopher quickly guided them onward, sensing the unease. The green expanse came to life, lush and vibrant.
"Here lies Zoo," he explained warmly. "Unlike the harsh landscapes of the Empire or the shadows of the Dark Zone, Zoo is a world of growth and life. It is home to the most intelligent species of Cray. The Great Nature clan, a society of scholars and inventors, thrives here. But they are not alone—Neo Nectar, the guardians of nature's beauty, and Megacolony, the hive-minded invaders, also reside within its jungles. Their rivalries keep balance in the ecosystem."
The hologram displayed verdant forests stretching endlessly, trees taller than skyscrapers, and cities built seamlessly into the landscape. Bioluminescent plants glowed with soft hues, illuminating walkways and settlements.
Yuri's gaze lingered longer than the others. His eyes narrowed when he noticed one of the images—an ancient grove, bathed in silver moonlight. Recognition flickered across his face.
"That's..." he whispered under his breath, "the same place where I first saw Cecilia."
But he let the thought trail off, unwilling to share more.
The projection shifted again, painting the room in shades of ocean blue.
"Next," Ryuki announced, "the archipelago of Magallanica. At first glance, you'd think the nation lies scattered across islands. But the truth is... the real nation exists beneath the waves."
Images of sprawling underwater cities appeared, crystalline domes shielding them from the crushing depths. Creatures of the sea glided effortlessly among the glowing towers.
"The Aqua Force form its naval military might, sworn protectors of the oceans. Yet the Granblue—undead pirates—threaten them constantly. And then there is the Bermuda Triangle clan, a group of idol mermaids whose songs hold both beauty and power."
Shingo nearly fell forward. "Idol mermaids?! You mean to tell me there are literal underwater pop stars down there?"
Yuto shot him a look. "Somehow, that doesn't surprise me as much as it should."
Even so, the images of mermaids with shimmering tails, surrounded by coral amphitheaters, left the group mesmerized.
Finally, Christopher's hand swept toward the silver region at the planet's edge. "And then... there is the final frontier. Star Gate."
The projection shifted dramatically, showing vast stretches of space littered with colossal structures. Futuristic spaceports, colossal mechs training in open fields, and alien ships hovering just beyond the planet's orbit all painted the picture of a technologically advanced stronghold.
"This region," Christopher continued, "is where entities from across dimensions converge. The Nova Grapplers—fighters who thrive on relentless combat—share this space with the Dimension Police, defenders of justice. But not long ago, another joined their ranks: the Link Joker clan. Once invaders, now... a part of Cray itself."
The group gazed in silence. The images of colossal battleroids locking fists, law-enforcers wielding radiant power, and cosmic anomalies twisting reality were unlike anything they had seen before.
"It looks..." Yugo finally muttered, "...like something out of a science fiction movie. But way scarier."
Christopher nodded. "Each nation is unique. Each one represents an aspect of existence—order, fire, shadow, life, ocean, and the cosmos. Together, they shape Cray into the living world it is. And through our fights, we are bound to them."
The hologram slowly retracted, leaving only the faint outline of the world shimmering before vanishing completely. Silence fell again, but it wasn't the silence of confusion. It was reverence, awe, and a dawning sense of responsibility.
For the first time, many of them realized the truth: cardfights weren't just about victory or defeat. They were echoes of something greater—a world whose fate was entwined with their own.
Ryuki closed his FICA, exhaling softly. "That's why every cardfight matters. Every decision, every clash of power... it all shapes Cray's destiny. And in turn, ours."
No one argued. No one joked. The room, heavy with understanding, carried only the sound of their breathing.
For the first time in a long while, they weren't just duelists or fighters. They were guardians of something much larger than themselves.
-----
After Ryuki and Chris concluded their explanation about Cray, the room felt strangely lighter, though a thread of tension still lingered. Reiji, ever composed, rose from his seat and looked across the gathering of Lancers. His voice was calm yet commanding.
"You all now understand the truth of Cray. Take this time wisely. One week—use it to rebuild your decks, strengthen your resolve, and prepare yourselves for what lies ahead."
The words fell like a decree, not a suggestion. Every member nodded with varying degrees of seriousness. Some exchanged brief glances, determination shining in their eyes. Others simply bowed their heads, already contemplating the challenges to come. With that, Reiji raised a hand, dismissing them.
"This meeting is adjourned."
Chairs scraped against the floor as the group began filing out. The once-lively chatter of strategizing dulled into whispers, each person lost in thought. But as the last few were about to leave, Reiji's voice cut sharply through the silence.
"Dennis. Shun. Stay."
The two paused mid-step. Dennis blinked in surprise, his usual bright smile flickering for a moment. Shun, meanwhile, froze, suspicion already clouding his features. The fact that Reiji and Ryuki were both standing, their gazes fixed firmly on them, told him this was no casual request. After a tense moment, both complied, stepping back into the room as the door closed behind the last of the others.
Now only four remained. The air shifted—denser, heavier.
Dennis tried to mask his unease with a chuckle. "Heh... so, what's with the sudden secret meeting? Did I do something special to deserve an audience with both the head of the Lancers and the Flame Monarch himself?"
Shun's eyes narrowed at the forced levity, but Reiji didn't flinch. His expression was carved in stone.
Reiji's voice was flat, almost surgical. "Tell me, Dennis. How long do you intend to continue this charade?"
The words sliced through the atmosphere like a blade.
Dennis' smile froze. For a split second, panic flickered in his eyes, though he tried to recover with a weak laugh. "Charade? I'm afraid I don't follow..."
"You know exactly what I mean." Ryuki's tone carried no anger, only cold certainty. "We already know you're part of Academia."
The color drained from Dennis' face. His mask cracked. Instinctively, he stepped backward, as though searching for an escape route. But before he could move another inch, Shun seized him by the arm, grip ironclad.
"Going somewhere?" Shun's voice was low and dangerous, years of anger boiling beneath his calm exterior.
Dennis winced, realizing escape was impossible. Surrounded by Reiji's sharp gaze, Ryuki's quiet authority, and Shun's physical restraint, the walls of the room suddenly felt like a prison.
"So," Dennis muttered bitterly, "is this where I'm dragged out in chains? Am I going to be declared an enemy of the Lancers? A traitor?"
Reiji shook his head. "No. That depends entirely on your answer. I will ask you once more, Dennis: where does your true allegiance lie? With Academia... or with us?"
The silence that followed was suffocating. Dennis' throat tightened. He could feel Shun's grip like a noose, Reiji's gaze like a scalpel dissecting his every movement, and Ryuki's presence radiating like fire ready to consume falsehood.
Finally, Dennis sighed. Shoulders slumping, he whispered, "My allegiance... to Academia is conditional."
Reiji's eyes narrowed slightly. Ryuki, however, leaned forward, his voice quieter, sharper. "It's because of Layla, isn't it?"
Dennis froze. The name alone struck him like lightning. His eyes widened, his forced composure shattering completely. "H-how do you...?"
Ryuki crossed his arms. "Tsuchikage overheard it while patrolling the Iceberg Zone. He mentioned you said that name."
Dennis swallowed hard, realizing there was no longer any point in hiding it. Slowly, he nodded. "You're right. The only reason I ever agreed to work with Academia is because they're treating her."
At this, Reiji's eyes softened—just barely. "She is ill, then."
"Gravely." Dennis' voice trembled. "She's had a weak constitution since birth. Can't run, can't even go outside without collapsing. The only times she ever smiled were when I did magic tricks for her, or when I took her to the park to watch me perform. But the medicines... the treatments... they're so expensive. Even with the money I earn performing, even with my dueling, it's never been enough."
His hands balled into fists. "I tried everything, and then Academia came. They offered to cover the costs. All they asked was that I work for them. At first, I thought their goals were noble, even grand. That maybe, just maybe, I could serve a greater cause while protecting Layla."
Shun's jaw clenched. "And your 'first mission'... was Heartland, wasn't it?"
Dennis looked down. "...Yes."
The admission struck like a hammer. Shun's eyes widened, fury boiling over.
"My mission was to infiltrate one of the schools and get close to Ruri," Dennis confessed, voice breaking. "I was supposed to gain her trust, then give the signal. That signal brought the first wave of soldiers into Heartland. I thought I was prepared. I told myself it was all for Layla. But when I saw the destruction... the way Academia tore the city apart without mercy... I—"
His voice cracked. "I wanted to vomit. I wanted to scream. But I was already too deep. I couldn't stop it. I couldn't stop them."
Before Dennis could say more, Shun's hand shot upward, gripping him by the neck and slamming him against the wall. Rage burned in his eyes, years of grief and hatred now given a target.
"You—!" Shun's voice shook with anger. "You dare stand here and admit it?! You brought them to us! You signaled the slaughter of Heartland! You—"
Dennis didn't resist. He didn't even raise his hands to pry Shun off. He met his furious gaze with empty resignation.
"You're right," Dennis rasped through the tightening grip. "It was me. I'll carry that weight. I'll be accountable for all of it. But understand this—if I hadn't done it, Academia would have cut off Layla's life support. She would have died."
Those words struck like a thunderclap. Shun froze, grip loosening as the meaning sank in.
Reiji's eyes narrowed, studying Dennis with renewed calculation. Ryuki's face darkened, his voice heavy. "Life support...?"
Dennis nodded weakly as Shun released him, and he slid down the wall to his knees.
"Before I was sent to the Xyz Dimension, Layla's condition worsened," Dennis whispered. "She was put on life support. If I disobeyed, if I failed... they would pull the plug. I had no choice. None. My hands were chained from the start."
His voice cracked, tears finally spilling down his face. He slammed his fist against the floor, over and over, each strike echoing his self-loathing.
"I hate it!" he cried, voice raw. "I hate everything I've done! The lies, the destruction, the betrayal! Every smile I forced, every trick I performed, all while knowing I was a coward shackled by fear!"
He collapsed forward, shoulders trembling, tears staining the floor beneath him. "But what else could I do?! Layla... she's all I have... she's my everything..."
For a long moment, no one spoke. The sound of Dennis' broken sobs filled the room. Shun stood frozen, fists clenched, his fury warring with the image of a man shackled by desperation. Reiji's eyes were unreadable, though his silence suggested calculation. And Ryuki... Ryuki simply watched, quiet sympathy flickering behind his calm gaze.
Amidst the tears streaming down his face, Dennis somehow held himself together long enough to continue speaking. His voice was unsteady, but each word carried the weight of a man who had seen too much and could no longer keep the truth hidden.
"Academia isn't as unified as Leo wants everyone to believe," Dennis confessed, his trembling hands tightening into fists. "There are four branches. Akaba Leo himself commands the South Branch... but the West and North don't share his vision. They don't agree with his obsession, so they've sealed themselves off, refusing to take part in his war."
Reiji, Shun, and Ryuki exchanged tense glances at this revelation.
Dennis continued, his tone bitter. "The East Branch, though... they support him. They've pledged to his cause without hesitation. And then, there's the rest of the Fusion Dimension—the ordinary residents. They've chosen neutrality. They won't raise their voices or their blades. All they'll do is provide supplies when asked, nothing more. To them, silence is survival."
Ryuki quietly nodded. "That's exactly what I saw when I walked through the mainland. The people avoided eye contact, turned their backs, pretended I wasn't there. Fear clung to them like a shadow, and none of them dared get involved."
Reiji's gaze sharpened behind his glasses. "Fear isn't accidental. It's a weapon. Leo must have planted it deliberately, a tactic to keep his people docile. If they never find the courage to question, then they'll never find the courage to resist."
A heavy silence followed, dense enough that words struggled to surface. Reiji was deep in thought, already constructing possibilities and contingencies in his mind. Each second stretched thin with the weight of looming war.
It was Ryuki who finally moved. Without a word, he pulled out his communicator and began dialing. The others watched, puzzled. Reiji frowned, Shun leaned closer, and Dennis blinked through his tears, none of them recognizing the person Ryuki was contacting. Yet, the air changed—the call wasn't ordinary. Whoever was on the other end mattered.
Ryuki's tone was sharp, purposeful. They couldn't hear the full conversation, but the fragments carried an urgency that set their nerves alight. When the call ended, Ryuki lowered the device, his expression steady as stone.
"Dennis," Ryuki said firmly, his eyes locking onto him. "There's hope. We might still be able to save your sister."
Dennis's breath hitched, disbelief flashing in his swollen eyes. "Wh-What did you just say...?"
Ryuki explained. "I reached out to the rebels inside Academia. I told them there's someone important who needs to be rescued, someone who can't be left behind."
Dennis's lips trembled. "And... and...?"
"They told me they already secured her," Ryuki answered. His voice softened, carrying a rare warmth. "A very sick girl named Layla Macfield. She's alive. She's safe. She's being treated by the best doctors on the mainland... under the orders of Sakaki Yusho, and it appears they'd done it right under Academia's nose."
The room froze. Shun and Reiji both stiffened, their eyes widening.
"Yusho...?" Reiji murmured, astonished.
"Why would he—?" Shun muttered, almost to himself.
Dennis's tears flowed anew, but this time they weren't born of despair—they were tears of pure relief. His knees nearly buckled as he clutched his chest, overwhelmed. "She's... safe...? Layla's safe...?"
Ryuki nodded. " From what the rebels told me that they thought Yusho-san was reckless. They didn't understand why he'd risk a dangerous operation for someone outside their ranks. But Yusho-san told them this: if they saved the patient, they wouldn't just be saving one girl—they'd be gaining a potential ally. Someone worth protecting."
Reiji leaned back slightly, his expression betraying surprise. "He saw beyond the immediate gain... He anticipated the bonds such an act would create. He's thinking two steps ahead."
"Exactly," Ryuki said. "That's Yusho Sakaki for you."
Dennis fell to his knees, crying openly now. Not the hopeless sobs of earlier, but cries that carried release—relief, gratitude, a fragile spark of hope. "She's alive... my sister's alive...!"
It was then that the air shimmered, and a presence materialized. Dran, the Zodiac Time Beast, appeared before them, his eyes fixed on Ryuki. In his claws, he held out a small deck box.
Ryuki blinked. "Dran? What are you doing here?"
The dragon inclined his head. "The deck in your possession has been glowing for some time now. And I think you know why."
Frowning in confusion, Ryuki accepted the box. When he opened it, the glow pulsed brighter. His gaze fell on the top card. He studied it for a moment, then looked toward Dennis. His expression shifted—he had realized something.
Kneeling down before the crying man, Ryuki held out the deck. "Dennis. You've been carrying a heavy weight, a burden no one should bear alone. But right now... you have a chance to make things right. Take this. It's the first step toward that future."
Dennis blinked through his tears, hesitantly reaching for the deck. When he pulled out the top card, his breath caught.
Masked Magician, Harri
Rank 4 / DARK / Elf / Xyz / Effect / Magia
ATK: 2500 / DEF: 2000
Dennis's voice wavered. "Wh-What is this...?"
"The Pale Moon clan," Ryuki explained. "A clan of circus performers. Their playstyle is close to your Entermages—but this deck focuses on Xyz summoning. Its core strategy is unique: calling forth allies directly from the Overlay Units of your Xyz Monsters."
Shun raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite himself. "Summoning from Overlay Units...? That's possible?"
Reiji's eyes glinted with academic interest. "Fascinating. An unorthodox mechanic."
Dennis stared at the card, his mind spinning. "Why... why give this to me?"
"Because the deck chose you," Ryuki said simply. "It responded to your heart, to your desperation. It sees something in you."
Dennis's hands trembled as he clutched the card tighter. And then, without warning, the world around him shifted.
He was no longer in Reiji's office.
Instead, he stood inside a vast circus tent, larger than anything he had ever imagined. The air was alive with sound—cheers, gasps, the drumbeat of excitement. All around him were performers and animals: trapeze artists, acrobats, tamed beasts in glittering armor. Each pair of eyes shone with color and light, watching him with a mixture of expectation and welcome.
Above, spotlights danced, illuminating a figure leaping gracefully from the trapeze. The performer landed with practiced precision before Dennis, cape fluttering behind him.
The man's hair was short, ash-brown, glinting under the lights. His eyes were ash-gold, carrying a mysterious charm. He wore a magician's outfit of deep blue, accented with a crimson cape. A top hat perched on his head, and a mask obscured his left eye, adding an aura of mystery.
It was him—Masked Magician, Harri.
The performer extended his hand toward Dennis, palm open, a smile tugging at his lips. His gesture was simple, yet it carried profound meaning. "Welcome, Dennis. Will you take the first step with us?"
Dennis's breath caught. Instinct overrode hesitation, and he slowly extended his own trembling hand. When their palms met, the warmth that surged through Dennis was unlike anything he had ever known.
In that instant, understanding blossomed within him. Not in words, but in clarity. He finally understood—his purpose, his path, the bond he had yet to form.
The circus around him dissolved into brilliant white light, washing away the doubts, the despair, the fear.
Dennis closed his eyes as the brightness enveloped him, tears sliding down his cheeks one last time. But now, those tears carried not sorrow... but resolve.
He was ready.
As Dennis slowly opened his eyes, the tension in the room eased just slightly. He blinked a few times, disoriented, before his gaze settled on Ryuki and Reiji. His lips curved into a tired but determined smile.
"I'll cooperate," Dennis said firmly, his voice steady despite the weight pressing on him.
Reiji gave a small nod, his sharp eyes unwavering. "Very well. Then listen carefully—this is the plan."
Everyone leaned in, aware of the fragile line Dennis now walked.
"From this point forward, aside from those already aware of your true identity—myself, Aichi, and Serena—nothing changes. You continue as you have been. Your status as an Academia spy remains hidden to the rest. Should your identity be exposed, you must return to Academia at once. There, you will act as a double agent, feeding us information from within."
The words landed heavy. Ryuki folded his arms, his expression tense. "That's a dangerous gamble. If Academia begins to suspect him, they won't hesitate to eliminate Dennis."
Shun, always quick to guard against betrayal, agreed. His eyes narrowed like a hawk ready to strike. "Ryuki's right. It's reckless. The risk isn't small—it's enormous."
But Dennis didn't flinch. He exhaled deeply, and for a moment, his usual showman's grin softened into something far more human. "If this is what it takes for my sister's safety... then I'll do it. I'll walk into the fire if I have to."
That struck a chord. For the first time in a long while, Shun's sharp stare softened. Even so, his voice was edged with steel. "Fine. But if you go that far, don't expect me to forget Heartland. You betrayed our home and sold us out to Academia. That will never disappear." He paused, then added, "But... if a man is willing to risk everything for his sibling, I'll respect that. And I'll make sure you don't fall alone."
Dennis gave a short, dry laugh, though it trembled at the edges. "Then if someone ever decides to expose me, it should be you, Shun. You'd do it without hesitation."
Shun's scoff was almost a smirk. "Count on it."
Ryuki, watching their exchange, finally stepped forward. "Then it's settled. But remember this, Dennis—you'll keep using your Entermage deck as your public face. Only when the time comes, when it matters most, will you draw upon Pale Moon. Show your loyalty subtly. If Academia sees a completely foreign deck in your hands, they'll grow suspicious. Blend in, until the stage is set."
Dennis nodded immediately, almost gratefully. "Understood. I'll play my part."
Reiji's voice cut in again, brisk and decisive. "Good. Then remain here until further instruction. Shun, Ryuki—you're dismissed."
The two men gave sharp nods and turned, the air still heavy around them as they left Reiji's office. The walk through the long halls of LDS was quiet at first, only the echo of their footsteps filling the silence.
Finally, Shun broke it. "Do you really think it's wise to entrust him with a deck from Cray? After everything he's done?"
Ryuki's expression didn't waver. His gaze was calm, almost gentle. "I do. Because Dennis deserves the chance to prove himself. Pale Moon reached for him, just as Aqua Force reached for Ruri. It's not about what he was—it's about what he chooses to become."
Shun frowned, his arms folding. "You put a lot of faith in people. Faith can get you killed."
Ryuki glanced at him, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Or it can save worlds." He slowed his pace, then added, "You asked me earlier if we can beat Academia. We can. Because we have something they don't."
Shun raised an eyebrow. "And what's that?"
Ryuki's smile turned enigmatic, his footsteps already pulling him forward. "Figure it out yourself."
And with that, he left Shun behind in the hall.
When Ryuki finally stepped out of LDS, the air outside was fresher, lighter. Waiting for him near the entrance were three familiar figures—Emi, Ruri, and Rin—chatting with one another while they waited. The moment they spotted him, all three turned, smiles blooming.
"Finally!" Rin called, placing her hands on her hips. "You sure took your time."
Ryuki blinked, then chuckled softly. "You were waiting for me all this time?"
Ruri tilted her head with her usual calm grace. "Of course. We weren't going to leave without you."
Emi chimed in, eyes bright with enthusiasm. "While you were busy inside, we tried one of LDS's simulation duels. It was incredible! The systems here are so advanced—it was almost like the real thing."
Ryuki's eyes softened at their excitement. "I see. I'm glad you made the most of it." He looked at the three of them, their energy, their warmth, and suddenly the weight of strategy and planning eased from his shoulders. "So then... we've got a week off. Where do you want to go?"
The answer came immediately, in perfect unison.
"A date with you!"
Ryuki froze. His composure cracked for just a moment as he processed their words. Then he sighed, though his lips curved into a resigned smile. "A date... with all three of you, huh?"
Rin grinned mischievously. "That's the only fair way, don't you think?"
Emi nodded eagerly, tugging lightly at his sleeve. "Come on, Ryuki-kun. You promised you'd spend time with us."
Ruri simply gave him that serene smile, her eyes saying everything words could not.
Ryuki closed his eyes and let out another sigh, though this one was softer—almost amused. "Fine. A date it is, then."
And with that, surrounded by the three who had chosen to stand by his side, Ryuki allowed himself a rare moment of peace as the future battles waited quietly on the horizon.
-----
A week passed since the Lancers' first official gathering. In that brief reprieve, Ryuki allowed himself something he rarely indulged in—rest. Days were spent in quiet company with his fiancés, sharing simple moments that steadied his heart before the storm he knew was coming. Yet even in those tranquil days, there were conversations that carried weight far beyond leisure.
One afternoon, Yuya had come to see him. His expression was conflicted, earnest, and strangely hopeful. He spoke of Zarc—how he had met him, and how the encounter was not what Ryuki had envisioned. Yuya's words painted a picture not of a monster wrapped in shadows, but of a man—lost, weary, yet still carrying fragments of who he once was.
Ryuki listened carefully, arms folded, his gaze thoughtful. He had always regarded Zarc as the embodiment of chaos, the abyss into which the four dimensions had nearly been swallowed. Yet Yuya's testimony stirred something different in him.
"Then what you saw," Ryuki finally said, his voice calm but firm, "was not the demon consumed by madness. That was Zarc before the darkness devoured him. Perhaps... the real one. The duelist who stood at the peak before tragedy twisted him."
Yuya clenched his fists, determination shining in his eyes. "If there's still a trace of him left, I want to reach it. I have to believe that even he—can be understood."
A faint smile tugged at Ryuki's lips. "Then trust in that Zarc, Yuya. If you do... it might guide you. Not just as a duelist, but as someone destined to surpass even the legends of the four dimensions. Do not fear the shadow. Let this chance temper you."
That conversation lingered with Yuya. And though Ryuki spoke it with his usual measured tone, his words carried the weight of prophecy.
The week did not go to waste for the others either. The Lancers threw themselves into training, sharpening their playstyles, refining every strategy, and bolstering their unity. By the end of it, there was a tangible shift in the air—an edge of readiness.
And now, the time had come.
The Lancers assembled in the LDS Observation Room. Outside, Maiami City stretched in quiet brilliance, its towers gleaming in the sunlight as if offering a final farewell. Within the room, the air was charged with anticipation. Families had been bid goodbye; tears and promises left behind. All that remained now was resolve.
Reiji Akaba, ever the unshakable commander, stood at the front. His sharp gaze scanned the group before he began.
"Today," Reiji declared, "the Lancers set forth. Our campaign in the Xyz Dimension begins. From here, our steps will shape the outcome of a war."
His technicians wheeled in a set of cases, sleek and metallic. At Reiji's signal, the cases opened to reveal freshly calibrated Duel Disks.
"These are not ordinary Duel Disks," he explained. "Each has been installed with the Dimensional Transport Program, as well as the Force Recall Program. Should any of you sustain severe injury, this will pull you back to safety."
One by one, the Lancers stepped forward to receive them.
The Cardfighters too were called, and for them, Reiji had prepared something special. Aichi's eyes widened slightly as he was handed a Duel Disk of radiant yellow, emblazoned with the blue crest of Royal Paladin—his clan, his pride. Kazumi received a crimson disk, its white sigil of Nubatama gleaming like a silent oath. Kazuma's matched Aichi's in color, though its emblem bore the Shadow Paladin—a mirror and a contrast to his brother.
Satoru's was deep violet, marked by the grim insignia of the Dark Irregulars. Christopher's shimmered in green, carrying the scholarly emblem of Great Nature. Kenji received a disk of metallic silver, sharp and proud, marked with the black crest of Dimension Police. And Emi—her eyes softened as she accepted a navy disk, the emblem of Bermuda Triangle catching the light like the glisten of an ocean tide.
Each disk was more than equipment. It was a bond—between fighter and clan, between determination and purpose.
Serena, Barrett, Yuri, and Fubuki too were provided Duel Disks modeled after those of the Standard Dimension. A precaution, as Reiji explained. "Resistance forces may mistake you for enemies. These will serve as both camouflage and defense."
The preparations were nearly complete. Reiji raised his hand to speak again, but before his words could leave his lips, Ryuki's voice cut through.
"There has been a change of plans."
A hush fell over the room. Reiji turned toward his vice-commander, eyes narrowing. "Explain."
Ryuki's gaze swept the group, his tone even yet carrying weight. "Before we leave for the Xyz Dimension, there is someone who wishes to see us. Not here, not in the Standard Dimension—but in my world."
Murmurs broke out among the Lancers. Yuya blinked in surprise. "Your world? Someone from there... wants to meet us?"
Ryuki nodded. "Yes. I did not tell you earlier because the timing was not right. Our first meeting carried too much tension. And more importantly, I wanted all of you recovered before I spoke of it. But now... it is time."
Aichi stepped forward, curiosity etched across his face. "Why reveal this only now, Ryuki-kun?"
"Because this meeting is not trivial," Ryuki replied. "The one who called for us is no ordinary figure. Their words could shape the path ahead. I needed certainty that you all could bear it."
Reiji studied Ryuki for a long moment. Finally, he gave a slight nod. "Very well. If this is the course you set, I will allow it. The opportunity to meet an ally from another world... is one I cannot ignore." His gaze sharpened. "How do you intend to take us there?"
Ryuki reached into his coat and withdrew a familiar deck—the Gear Chronicle Vanguard Deck. As his fingers brushed the cards, a resonant hum filled the room.
In an instant, twelve radiant figures materialized—the Zodiac Time Beasts. They circled the room in arcs of golden and silver light, their movements weaving together in intricate harmony. Energy pulsed between them, gathering at the center until reality itself began to ripple.
Before the Lancers, a wormhole opened, its spiraling light both beautiful and daunting.
"This," Ryuki announced, "is the Stride Gate. The bridge between the Standard Dimension and the world of Vanguard."
The group stared, awe struck. Yuya's eyes widened with wonder. Gongenzaka's jaw slackened. Even Reiji, ever composed, allowed a flicker of intrigue to cross his features.
"Do you know where it leads?" Reiji asked carefully.
Ryuki inclined his head. "Yes. The coordinates are locked. It will take us directly to my office in the Dragon Empire Japan Branch. It is secure."
Silence lingered for a heartbeat, then Reiji turned back to the group. "Then hear me well, all of you. The Lancers will make a detour. Before the Xyz Dimension, we go to Ryuki's world. There, we will forge ties and strengthen the alliance between two worlds."
One by one, the Lancers stepped toward the portal. Yuya looked to his friends, determination etched across his face, before plunging in. Aichi followed, his Royal Paladin crest glinting in the light of the Stride Gate. Soon, the room filled with the rush of movement as duelist after duelist entered the swirling light.
At last, only Ryuki remained.
He lingered for a moment, his gaze turning toward the city skyline of Maiami. The sunlight painted the skyscrapers gold, the waves of the bay glittering like scattered jewels. He let the sight settle in his memory—the city that had been both battlefield and sanctuary.
Then, with a quiet breath, he stepped forward. The hum of the Stride Gate enveloped him as he crossed its threshold.
He was returning home—yet this time, not alone. This time, the fate of two worlds would intertwine.
To be continued...