To Find Hope

by AyaxRoses

Yaoi and Yuri! Couplings: Kai x Aichi, Misaki x Kourin, Kai and Misaki both find themselves at a loss without their own eternal mate. Kai finds himself to blame for the disappearance of their two friends. Yet, perhaps the two friends can find hope and bring back their soulmates. Misaki and Kai friendship. MisaKou, KaiChi, Yuri and Yaoi. Shounen-ai, Shoujo-ai!

4. The Path to Hope

A/N: Sorry for long gaps between updates school has been well school and my computer has had some crashing problems so it's been difficult to get things started I meant to make the update just 1 month apart but it's turned into nearly 2 so I'll get started. Legion Mate's been making me a bit sad lately with the character losses (from the main story). Very brief summaries through the events from episode 184-194 (some more brief then others as I'm not a big Serra fan -.-)

---

It seemed to happen one loss after another like a domino effect, the force behind that one push was the quarte knights. It felt as if Aichi himself were playing a role in the matches giving each of the knights their assured victories, and needed triggers.

"Aichi Onii-san!" Kamui had called out the memories flushing through his mind. First of jealousy over Emi, thinking Aichi and her were something other then siblings, due to their closeness. Then seeing him as a rival, and growing to become on par with the best of the best. Being in team Q4 together and forming teams together throughout the years.

It all seemed but a dream, to the way Aichi was acting now. Gaillard had declared his final attack and the blue flames submerged him, to the point where all he could think or feel was of this judgement. To forget Aichi, who was like an older brother.

Gaillard seemed to have opened his eyes, noticed through their duel how important Aichi was to Kamui, yet never the less, remained beneath the cold exterior, to protect Aichi at all costs.

"I'm counting on you Kai!"

---

The air itself seemed colder as both Kai and Naoki found themselves advancing towards Aichi's throne, attempting to free him.

"What's wrong?" Kai noted looking to the side studying Naoki's current disposition. He looked straight down for a moment. His eyes were cold, and it seemed a shiver passed through him.

"Have faith, we have to," Kai responded quickly taking notice as they approached closer towards where Aichi was they could simply feel it. Kai knew, this was where his dearest one, Aichi, his eternal mate was located.

Naoki nodded with reasoning, "Mates should have faith in other mates," and suddenly it seemed his expression became that bit more determined.

"So you both have made it this far," a voice called out to them. Walking closer and closer, with a look of agitation on his face.

"Gaillard!" Naoki called out his name as if it were poison they were so close, so very close. Naoki had known from the second he met Kai, how terribly he loved and needed Aichi. These few months searching for him, led Kai to truly changing himself. Doing whatever it would take to bring his love back home. "Look, Kai…" Naoki had pointed out though he knew Kai's attention had already been drawn there from the second he stepped in.

"I know…" Kai noted "Aichi…" he called out his name again, as he had countless times before. As if calling his name and expressing his heart and out was to wake him out of the bond Link Joker held. He had that hope, it wasn't impossible. Aichi laid there drifting in his eternal sleep, and Kai could only see those soft blue locks of hair he loved to caress so dearly. He couldn't make out his face, but Kai knew, there was no mistaking that was his Aichi.

"I'd like to say I'm glad you made it this far, but this is as far as anyone will be getting to Aichi," Gaillard simply declared this, as if their match had been predetermined. Yet he had no idea how different things were now.

His eyebrows were furrowed and his expression almost longing as he looked behind himself to the sleeping blunette in his throne. Between them and Aichi was a barrier of blue electrical waves. "This will remain until all four Quarte Knights have been defeated, and as you can see you two are the only ones to make it through to Aichi, you're other so called mates have failed."

Gaillard has announced, causing Naoki to grit his teeth, while Kai remained eternally silent. Miwa, his friend since childhood, Kamui who worked with him on Q4, and Misaki his friend who showed tremendous faith hope and courage….in bringing back not only Aichi but her true eternal mate Kourin. She never lost that hope, and Kai would swear to continue on. He could only image the broken feeling, and wished these events were a lie.

"But it would seem you're really too late, What do you think you can do now?" Gaillard challenged, through the sharp words, there was something behind his eyes, in his expression, that seemed torn. He'd look back to Aichi. Gaillard pressed his lips to that precious ring as his thoughts filled with Aichi. Their match would begin surely.

"You're Mistake Kai, your sin refusing to forget Aichi," Gaillard began, a solemn expression upon his lips as he finished, "Put the entire world in danger. It will not be forgiven, and I will protect Aichi."

The red haired teen, could hardly contain his anger towards Gaillard. Knowing he and the other knights played a role in casting judgment on his fellow mates. However Kai remained calm, his arm stretched out before him as he said, "Ishida."

The red head seemed to understand as with a nod, he told Kai, "I'm counting on you, we all are."

Kai nodded as he approached the field, his deck no longer consisting on those previous Kagero Units.

"Why do you insist on bringing Aichi back with you, when he clearly wishes to stay here?" Gaillard asked pointedly, causing the brunette before him to pause. Their very own cardfight arena was currently engulfed by the blue flames, which held all Gaillard felt towards Aichi. "What do you and your mates hope to accomplish with all of this?"

"As mates, we've cried together, laughed together and gotten stronger together….we vowed to bring Aichi back, and ever since I knew of Aichi sealing himself away, isolated and suffering while the world forget his existence, I made my decision and have my resolve…" Kai answered at last, scanning his eyes over the current cards in his hands preparing to deal another damaging blow. "Why is it he wished to lock himself away?"

Gaillard looked shocked, he had talked so highly about his goal to bring Aichi back yet didn't even understand the first thing about him. Or his own wishes. "You should ask yourself that…" After all it was for all of us and especially you Kai, the one he couldn't stand to be forgotten by. You couldn't do that to him….even while I pledged my life to you, you held onto him, whether or not you'd admit it. You became the world's savior and held these mates, you held him higher then you'd ever let us know. But we all vowed to protect you and we will.

Gaillard, continued in his explanation, as Kai simply looked shocked, what was he implying? "Kai, there was a time in my own life I had lost everything, my parents, my friends all those who were important to me. I felt my life come upside down, and I was put in to live with other children in my own situation"

He began his tale, as those lonely and dark images from his past flashed before him. Young Gaillard had only been about 11 or 12 years of age, as he entered that crowded room with others his age or younger, in this foster care system.

"At first I kept to myself, I couldn't open myself open unless it was…through Vanguard, It was from there I was able to form those irreplaceable bonds, yet…" Gaillard paused, the images of the darkened sky around his world and that flashing color of red, representing the Link Joker came to mind. "I started to help out, teaching children who grew up like me of Vanguard in hopes they would find their own love and passion through the game, it was all until one day. That force…that threatening force known as the link joker, continued to spread throughout all of those children who once played Vanguard for the love of it…" He started as the images came to mind of those children with their red markings over their faces, flashed before him. "Until…Link Joker, the one you yourself Kai continued to spread across the world, became a threat. I had to defeat them one by one, and suddenly I felt myself becoming alone, like everything had gone back to that day when I was just a child, so cold and lonely.

"Yet there was that beacon of hope," Gaillard stated, as a smile graced his lips. He remained the boy with the darker blue hair coming in to sit down with him, talking about his love for Vanguard.

Aichi had spoke to him, like some angel sent just to him, in the kindest tone of voice, "I am willing to make the sacrifice, to save Vanguard, the fighters and the planet Cray from Link Joker…I'm here to ask you Gaillard if you would be by my side, as my Knight to help protect the game we both love so much…"

Gaillard could still feel his heart pounding rapidly recalling those words, there was nothing more important then keeping Aichi safe, and fulfilling his promise to him, and he intended to keep it. "And I will do whatever it takes to protect that hope"

"Gaillard," Kai answered, his eyes dead serious as they focused on his opponent before him, "I can very well understand that is a heavy burden for you, and your need to protect Aichi at all costs. He has been the very hope and reason in my own life. From the day we met, and that's why, we can't afford to lose him from the world. He's carved an irreplaceable mark upon each of our hearts. I know how you feel about Aichi…perhaps I had denied that for longer then needed, I should have cherished each moment beside him, but as it was my own sin, why should Aichi be isolated away, the one to take on my pain?" Kai answered though ending with a question that had struck at his heart.

Gaillard began his turn, reaching for his next card as he looked back towards Aichi. It was you Aichi…who saved them who saved me. "We need Aichi here, he's not only kept Link Joker within himself but even those who couldn't recover…" Gaillard thought fondly upon Aichi, bringing a smile upon the face of a young boy who swore to not play again.

'The faces of these kids when they play Vanguard. Their passion and smiles when playing. It's something I hope will never go away. Gaillard will you help me in protecting their smiles as well?'

Aichi asked those words to him, after showing he could truly be their savior to the horrible Link Joker, to bring joy back into the hearts of every fighter. He loved that about him. "It's through Aichi that my blue flames can burn even brighter. He lit a spark in me, and I will fight as many mates as it takes to ensure he is able to continue his rest. You of all people should understand…he took on your own sin, the power of the link Joker, preventing you, despite what you've done from feeling the pain…you are that important to him…despite your sin"

"I know my sin will always be unforgiveable, no matter what I go through..." Kai confessed as he felt those blue scorching flames engulfing him as they attacked right at his vanguard. "No matter what pain, I know I won't be forgiven for what I've done…and yet still…" Kai stopped that image of the one most dear, his precious smile, the look of joy on his face back when he'd give so much as a small compliment, or look his way. "Even so I have to bring him back…even if it means going against his wishes and all he's done so far.. I have to bring him back, it's not just me but there are so many people who can't live in a world without Aichi."

Kai paused as he began his next turn, feeling a scorching flame within himself begin to ignite as he drew from his deck. This turn he would show, how deep his ties lied with Aichi, how he's felt all these years due to him. "Even in the darkest world, Aichi would always remain that light to bring me back to myself..Blaster Blade, his avatar, came to me…asking to save Aichi…and I will believe in his will, I will bring him home, that's way…now I'm going to show you the true color of my own flames." Kai proclaimed as the scorching crimson flames seemed to surround him as he next spoke.

Gaillard found himself in shock, unsure that someone was able to carry such passion, and hold such determination towards another. Still he couldn't let him win like this.

"These are the true colors of my flames. Trinity Crimson flame." Kai called out to his own avatar, as he announced his first attack.

"One.." the image of his beloved flashed before him, his first meeting with Aichi just as kids, as Gaillards front unit was destroyed.

"Two" he called, the image of the painting just Junior High boy coming into Card Capitol asking for his card back, came to mind. Kai knew he should have let him have the card from the start, he knew who he was…yet he had to challenge Aichi, be his first and last opponent. And make sure Aichi would remember him.

"Trinity Crimson!" Kai called, at last the feeling seemed to overflow in him, the last time he held the younger boy tight in his arms, later that day when he thought the Link Joker Travesty would come to an end.

The scorching crimson flames came straight towards Gaillard. He drew for his first heal check. And seemed relieved, "Heal trigger."

Yet Kai was unfazed as he explained even triggers would have no effect against Trinity Crimson flame. Kai's overwhelming passion and feelings for his eternal mate came head first at Gaillard, he was finally able to see just what Aichi meant to Kai.

"You may have won Kai, but you must realize you're only making the same mistake you're going to destroy the world all over again. The one Aichi strove to protect."

It was incredibly overwhelming, and he felt his own body falling back. "No matter the cost, I will bring Aichi back. There will be another way for all of this as. I will believe in Blaster Blades will..." the brunette stopped as he looked at Gaillard, finally making him understand just how deep his bond lies, with Aichi. "Judgment!" he called as the crimson flames completely engulfed Gaillard, overwhelming the blue flames all around the stadium.

It was clear he had victory. "I'm sorry Aichi…I couldn't keep my promise to you and protect you." Gaillard spoke as he felt his body weakening as he fell to his knees. The second pillar had fallen. Kai and Naoki felt assured of their victory yet it seemed as soon as the battle ended, the stadium they fought it began to change as well.

Large crystals of ice encircled the entire room, slowly but surely entrapping Kai, Naoki and Gaillard.

From a distance stood, another sinister knights, with bright purple hair as he spoke to a white haired male next to him, watching the pillar go down…with satisfaction?

The ice trap all around blocked their vision from seeing more of what he was doing. Or how they would manage to escape from here. Still Kai knew, as he felt those moments ago, whatever it took he would bring his eternal mate back home.

---

A read head and rather serious young blonde male stepped in through the doors of Card Capitol. It was easy to spot him being in his rather formal white attire bright blonde hair and striking dark purple eyes.

He hoped to open the door and find it was not true. Not after what they all went through Aichi's mates. Yet as he opened the door, there she was. Misaki shouldn't be here, meaning she was back in Card Capitol meant…

"Welcome to…oh, Leon-san?" Misaki tilted her head to the side, what would make him want to visit the shop? Why? Hadn't he been with Ren before, discussing something or another. Ah. There it was again that dark blank image flashed before her, dissolving her original memory. What were they working on together? Something for a tournament? Were they dating or something? Why did she picture them together before? It seemed so important. Were they somehow planning to host something at Card Capital. Or to see Kai…wherever he was. He hadn't wanted to come by the shop lately at all.

"Tokura-san." Leon spoke formally, as he noticed the puzzled look upon her face. "It seems the winds have changed their course again. Leading you back here."

"Back here?" she asked, "Where else had I been?" she tried to look back but felt that piercing sting against her forehead. As if something was blocking her out.

He shook his head, his concerns confirmed. He stopped to look down at a particular ribbon tied tightly upon her wrist. "You still have that." He said almost relieved, even if the memories weren't there the feelings would carry on.

"Y-yes. ." She paused, looking down at it fondly, "It feels like something that's always been there."

Leon felt a soft smile form on his lips, he could sense the winds calming. How her face showed such emotion simply looking at the remnant. "You should always hold onto that.." he advised, "It belongs to the one who had always held your heart," he advised.

"The one who...held my heart?" she repeated after, looking down at the ribbon, yet strangely understanding, the one most precious to her. Someone irreplaceable...it felt like it. She nodded for a moment, holding tight to the ribbon as Leon exited the store.

He started heading over to a rather intimidating high rise building. Upon which he would find that idiotically smiling red head. As he entered through the doors, he came in, informing him. "I believe it's time, we've intervened…"

"Aww I guess you're right Leon-chan~" Ren spoke in a childish manner leaning back in his seat.

---

Amidst the icy enclosure, Kai, Naoki and Gaillard himself were captured. There seemed to be no true way out, despite the passion, power or determination they could hold.

Trying to physically break through the walls had no effect. Gaillard had awoken as they witnessed Serra's plan to take over the power of the Link Joker and force Aichi to awaken. It all seemed impossible getting through this wall yet then came a scream, that familiar voice of the man who was nearby Serra before. A blinding white light came through as the white haired male fell through and a large part of the ice wall broke apart.

There stood Leon and Ren, looking as different as night and day. They had looked towards the three, explaining how even if it meant going against Aichi's original wishes. There would be another way. "Living in a world of peace is not worth it at Aichi's expense." Leon explained, as they led Kai, Naoki and Gaillard out of the icy enclosure.

"So we're going to help you out and bring Aichi home! Especially to you Kai-chaaaan~" Ren explained placing a hand on the brunettes shoulder, with a childish grin as he finished. "You must be very lonely without your boyfriend for all this time neh? Neh? Sleeping alone as well, must be lonely. Soon you won't have to worry about that either!"

Kai opened his mouth about to say something but turned to the side a blush staining his cheeks. Not even denying it, although he still wasn't sure what to say. How to respond to Ren's direct and childlike approach to life. He had wanted to thank them and still would, but thinking about Aichi again like that, as his love, and imagining him beside him again. It was a lot to take in. As the rest of the males gave a knowing look. While Gaillard held more…disdain in his eyes. It had been common knowledge.

The five males had agreed to find Aichi, as they led finally out enough to see Serra, and the final pillar having fallen. There was a look of anger upon Gaillard's eyes, he kissed that precious ring, swearing to protect Aichi his time. Serra wouldn't come close. On behalf of the knights no traitors would go unpunished.

---

The last two pillars had come to a fall. Before after Aichi's awakening came Neve, who fought with all his determination, to bring Aichi back to himself, which prevailed for but a moment. He had been tricked into fighting Aichi through Sera's manipulation, awakening Aichi from his slumber. He awakened a possessed Link Joker Aichi. The last to fall would be Rati, as Serra approached her issuing a challenge for her, her only hope to protect her beloved Cray would be to fight him.

Serra had become enraged with a thirst for power. "The Seed of the Link Joker" is what he spoke about, betraying Aichi and causing Rati to fall.

"I'm sorry, Aichi, Misaki…everyone…" Rati had said, the images of protecting her beloved planet Cray had been shattered. She finally understood Misaki's words before. Having friends and that person most important to you.

That person who means the most to you and is closest to your heart. Misaki had told her with that lonely and distant expression staring down at the black ribbon on her wrist.

Kourin-chan. That must have been it, the image of the blonde idol almost immediately came to mind at Misaki's words, it had to be her. Not only that but the way

If only she had realized that bit sooner, yet now it was too late. All four pillars have fallen. Gaillard I know you can stop this.. Serra, your betrayal will not be forgiven.

---

I made a vow to you, Aichi. Gaillard thought as he looked towards the blue haired boy, the one he cherished beyond reason. I will protect you at all costs. Even if it means taking down a fellow quarte knight. Traitors would not be forgiven.

Even Kourin who strove to protect Aichi as well had become locked up in Serra's ice barrier. He walked over to Aichi's throne, as his hands grasped at Aichi's shoulder blades trying to force him to awaken.

"Serra!" Naoki had called out bitterly.

His attention was turned towards the voice, Kai, Naoki and Gaillard stood beside each other, they had escaped. He grit his teeth noticing Leon and Ren beside them, they must have led to the escape. "You're here again?" he said, not truly at ease nor surprised. He held his hand out casting again that encapsulating wall of ice.

"So you've been betraying Aichi all this time?" Gaillard had known the answer, he stepped before both Kai and Naoki, silently vowing to put an end to everything Serra had begun. He held out his ring, the striking blue flames emerging and meeting with Serra's blizzard like effect. "We heard all about your whole scheme."

"I guess it seems with the help of Leon and Ren, even escaping an Ice Prison will become possible?" he spoke with a menacing look upon his lips.

"After all you've been trying to do to Aichi, betraying him like that." Naoki began

"I'll do it," Gaillard began earning rather surprised looks, "Quarte Knights will take responsibility for other quarte knights."

Kai nodded to him, "Alright," As Gaillard proceeded to dueling Serra. It was a duel between the power hungry ice user and blue flamed fighter who fought of his passion for protecting what he loved the most.

"None of you can beat me, I've already manipulated all of you," Sera said while accepting the challenge none-the-less.

Gaillard looked back at Aichi still unconscious at his throne, he would protect the one he cherished at all costs.

Throughout their duel, Serra found himself to be revealing more and more of his previous plan. "You see, Aichi had his strengths, enough to contain Link Joker. But his pure heart was also one of his weaknesses….it allowed me to get right in as a Knight beside him, and harness the power that neither Aichi nor Kai could possible contain. And now with all four pillars removed, I can finally do what Aichi was unwilling to do…"

Gaillard's blue flames seemed to light up that much stronger, and brighter in a rage. His turn began, and he felt himself beside with more and more anger. "Aichi let you in, he trusted you. And all of this time you've been laughing at his pure heart!" He cursed those words, at Serra, who seemed unaffected.

"It was a waste for someone simple, and "pure hearted" to have that power, which could be more suited for someone else.." Serra said. "I can use that power better than anyone can…" he spoke so haughtily

"as he locked Gaillards units, using Omega Lock.

Still Gaillard would not give into him or these demands. "I will not forgive you for this," he said as he continued meeting Serra attack by attack.

There was another force that would drive him to victory, despite Serra numerous attempts locking his units, Gaillard had finally drawn the piece he needed. "I know I'm stronger then you Serra. For I have chosen to rely on my allies, and have taken on all their feelings…Neve…Rati…! Legion Skill!" he called out, as the images of Serra's fellow knights seemed to appear beside Gaillard. At last he declared his attack and final turn.

Serra's expression darkened as he realized now it was over. Despite his attempts to escape, to create another Ice Prison, the fellow knights would not allow him to escape or go any further. "Judgment!" Gaillard called as that small pendant around Serra neck broke. There would be no more harm done from him, and he would never get to Aichi again. Gaillard kept that promise.

---

Serra's form became engulfed in a blinding light, as Gaillard pressed his lips against that ring. Casting judgment upon him. "You've betrayed Aichi, and lost the right to become a knight or even be here." He declared as Serra began to fade from the area itself, as far away from Aichi as possible.

What seemed like a victory again led to another derailment. As Kai and Naoki attempted to approach Aichi, now with all the pillars gone, yet still Gaillard turned to him, in a glare telling him. "I won't let you have Aichi."

However much to the Knights surprise a certain blonde idol stepped off a platform and down before Aichi's mates.

"Kourin." Naoki said, in an uneasy tone, You can't act like you don't truly care about your past life. About what happened to the one who fought so hard for you…she always defended you. Sure she must know about what happened to Boss Lady Misaki!

"There's nothing else I can do for Aichi now," Kourin stated turning to Gaillard and the other guardians.

"Kourin." Kai spoke coldly another block in their road to finally reaching Aichi. She too was determined to keep Aichi in that eternal sleep!

Kai had his resolve he would fight whatever it takes to get to Aichi, and fight whoever it was, he was blinded in that way. " Kai I'll fight this one," Naoki said with a look of determination placed upon his lips. He stepped forward towards the blonde idol, a bit of irritation laced in his voice. "There's something I wanna say to her." He turned back to his fellow mates, giving a thumbs up towards them, assuring he could do this, they would have their comrade back.

The arena filled with that certain darkness, with electrical flashes of red. She was using Link Joker. Naoki grit his teeth, as his eyes narrowed at the scene. They would get her back!

He stepped forward seeing Kourin holding that eerily glowing red deck. It had to be. Link Joker. Naoki managed to meet Kourin during the first turn, attack by attack, and they became evenly matched. He fought with his straightforward fighting.

"How can you be so insistent on taking Aichi back, and waking him from his slumber. The world will be in danger, and it goes against his own wishes and sacrifices." Kourin pleaded, she had already dedicated her life to protecting that world alongside her friend. Even giving up….those that mattered to her.

"We're not gonna let Link Joker take over again, but we're not going to keep Aichi locked up and away from the world." Naoki proclaimed, "Even if there's no hope and no way to fix things we'll still do something." He spoke true to his character, as he always held on to those direct feelings. No matter what they'd get through it.

Naoki was going to begin his turn, as he noticed that dark lonely expression in her eyes. We'll bring you back Kourin. "I will win this fight, I'm fighting with the emotions and feelings of my mates.." Naoki said, hoping to get some part of the old Kourin back. You couldn't have stopped caring like that! You're in there. "Misaki, Believed in you!" he declared, speaking straight out of his heart, as he felt a stingy pain knowing, she more than anyone else deserved to be here by Kourin. How she should be here, after all she went through for her.

Kourin looked down upon the cards in her hand, breathing after the past attack from Naoki. Her breathing turned to panting as she found herself forced to think of those memories once again.

"When you appeared to us as an enemy, even when I badmouthed you she…" Naoki started, gaining attention from the Blonde at last. The old Kourin was truly in there somewhere no matter what she did to dedicate herself to protecting the world, she would always have that place for her.

The memory would flash before Naoki's mind clear as day. Misaki's eyes downcast, mixed in a countless amount of emotions, as they gleamed a darker shade of blue. "Back then Kourin was suffering on the inside," she stated, truly knowing, as she could barely meet their gazes. It was as if she had taken in Kourin's pain herself. "She desperately kept all her pain bottled up." Misaki declared, lifting her head up, giving a cold glare her thoughts filled with. Kourin…And It's not just Aichi you have to save!

"At least that what it looked like to me!" She had finished, making her resolve, as she quickly turned and left back towards the inside of the island's home. She had never seemed that scary, in Naoki's mind then the moment she defended her like that. There was no way to be right, especially with the way Misaki spoke of Kourin, and the look on her face. She would go to all costs to bring back not only Aichi, but Kourin.

She loves you, you idiot idol! Naoki inwardly cursed. She had reflected on her last conversation.

Misaki…Kourin thought to herself, that name that ran through her mind now, and truly before almost constantly.

"You held onto that," was all Kourin could manage to say, she noticed that ribbon, as she had stared back at it several times. For Misaki…held on to that, all this time. It was tied around her wrist as if her life depended on it.

"Is that really…Aichi?" Misaki asked, truly unable to say the words she longed to speak for so very long.

"I wouldn't lie to you," Kourin answered, and it was a promise.

I'll always have that part of you with me Misaki..but… Kourin felt her chest begin to ache. Misaki I was moved by your feelings. I always have been. You saw through me…and after all that time. I never even could say to you what I felt. And how terrified I was.

But I've made up my mind there is truly no other way. To protect this world, the one that we all cherish, that you live in Misaki. And for me to lose all of those memories it feels so cruel..

'That's right I had became Resolved right then…'

There above the high rise building, where Kai and Aichi had their final fight. She could only briefly make out the image of that building and the world seeming that bit peaceful. Her friends had celebrated as their faces and names one by one became a blur.

After a while, she had slipped away unknown to her the lavender girls' had watched her leave, a pained expression. She must have known. 'Kourin..' she would speak her voice so softly.

The days seems to go on meaningless, she felt like a doll trapped in a dollhouse, she had no memories of any idea of her purpose. The one she held so close to her heart. The one who held her close, while Aichi left to save Kai…She too was fading. As she walked down the empty streets with the blank expressions, it became hard to tell friend from stranger. As there was no clue as to her previous life.

She could only feel empty. Yet, she heard that voice that call.

"No, stay back…I need to control this. The Link Joker." His voice was desperate and she suddenly felt a part of her memories awaken. When she arrived at the 'palace' of sorts Aichi caged himself in, she saw her friend toppled over in pain.

"Aichi," She said as the images of him, all her friends…Misaki, they all came flooding back. It felt overwhelming. But at last she could see, she had a purpose to help save that world, take in some of the pain from Link Joker. And maintain those happy memories. Even the empty street she just walked through reminded her of that previous image, the gentle smile on Misaki's face as they walked ever so close side by side. The urge to want to feel her hands, know if they were soft and fit her image of the goddess Amaterasu. She didn't want to look away or lose that. The cardfight all before her. Those irreplaceable bonds.

"You're keeping yourself away…from even Kai?" she had asked, noticing the darkness of the room, how solitary it had been. "Or because of Kai.."

The blunette nodded wincing in pain as the Link Joker continued to spread throughout him. "I guess it was that obvious from the start,"

Kourin felt her hand grasping the clothing over her chest, You too have someone dear you need to protect. You're most important person. She thought as the image of that soft smile, the girl who stayed by her side up until the moment her memories faded. She would protect her too, and their world.

"Naoki, there is no other way, no matter what I will stay as Aichi's knight, and protect this world from being destroyed by Link Joker." She said though truly she felt pained. Even if it means isolating myself…

"I'm still not convinced!" Naoki proclaimed towards her, as he held onto those steadfast feelings, the passion he held for his mates, it seemed to flow all throughout the arena. His feelings he held, those past memories. "There has to be another way. I really loved the Cardfight Club! Laughing like an idiot, being excited like an idiot, Being fired up like an idiot. That place.. I loved the hell out of it Kourin you were the first one I won a fight against too, you're an irreplaceable member of our club. You can't tell me you don't love that club as well. You loved being a part of that club and still do don't you?"

Kourin remained with a passive expression. "Kourin!" Naoki called to her hoping to bring back the joy she held for the club back to her. "I want to fight again being the vice captain, having Aichi as the captain…Shing-granny glasses" he corrected himself remember that nickname, "That slightly scary Misaki, and one stuck up idol. Kourin, I'm talking about you! There is still hope. We can have that club back again"

Naoki's fighting spirit came back fully, as he realized Kourin was finally coming back to herself. She must know there's another way to all of this. "I even had someone I really liked in that club, but I never told Shingo, always seeming superior to me. I'd lost my memories of being in a club with him and everyone…and I know Misaki too had someone she held so close to her…to this day I know she still is looking for answers and hoping to see you and that's why I'm bringing you back"

He declared that final attack. "I'm going back to the Cardfight Club with you, Misaki , Shingo and Aichi!" His avatar came crashing through to fight against Kourin's vanguard, she felt the overwhelming bit of hope, passion and determination Naoki held towards their club. All of her friends there.

As the last card fell into her damage zone, she felt weak she slowly recalled memories of that club. Naoki and Shingo…she would think of it now they did act like a bickering couple, if only one of them had the ideas to just figure out their own feelings each other held. Not to say I've done any better with her… Aichi. The dear friend who would help her save this world from Link Joker again.

And she'd remember across from that room, watching the males of their group engaging in cardfights, that same kind woman sat a few tables across from then. She was so close to her, Kourin remembered sitting by her before, laughing over whatever it was, simply because she could and she was happy. "Misaki…" her voice was pained, as the final piece came together, I do want to go back…with you. The isolation had paid it's toll upon her. As she felt her body collapsing under the pressure from the link joker.

"Kourin!" Naoki called out to his friend who began to fall unconscious. That's right the world I want to protect and my memories…Misaki…with you. That's what I could never afford to lose.

---

Aichi had placed the fallen Kourin, down upon the seat of his throne. Unable to stay away any longer from confrontation with his friends again. He knew it only had to be a matter of time. He had thanked her as he took on the power of the Link Joker he originally intended to take on himself.

"Aichi!" Naoki called out to him. Seeing as the full power of the link joker taken in by Aichi made him nearing the point to return back to his slumber.

"There's a dark wind filled with a deep amount of pain and sorrow." Leon spoke, feeling the harsh sway of the wind, watching Aichi in that state.

"Aichi…." Kai felt a deep pang against his chest. Seeing the one he loved so much in this kind of pain. He needed to be near him, and take on that pain.

"Kai-kun.." Aichi said softly, his eyes locked upon the brunette across the room. The one who held his entire world in his hands, who was truly his only. He took on Kai's pain to protect him from this, yet..Kai came back. A part of Aichi was glad, having needed to see him again, yet the other part was overwhelmingly upset. There was no other way couldn't he see that. Their glance portrayed the sorrow, anger, pain, confusion and longing they held all this while apart.

"Aichi-san I'm sorry!" Gaillard came running through the room, upon one knee he kneeled before Aichi. "Kai got in here because of…No it's my fault please give me one last chance to protect you." He begged, him bowing his head down upon his arm across his bent leg, as if praying for forgiveness. He couldn't let Aichi down, not like this. Aichi's wishes…they meant the world to him.

"The fault lies within us your knights, please Aichi give me one more chance," he pleaded

Aichi's smile was gentle gazing down at his dearest of the knights, "Alright, Gaillard."

Kai felt himself finally able to reach his goal, the one who was most dear was right before him. He could walk to him now, almost. The light blue haired male had walked before him blocking that small path that kept him from Aichi once again.

Gaillard looked back at Kai, in his own piercing gleam of determination. He would win this, and protect Aichi at all costs. He would prove to Aichi too in this match who's flames burned stronger, and who held the most passon to truly be at his side? Who's will was stronger? all of that would be decided.

Kai looked back, certain this was the last step before reaching his beloved. He would believe in Blaster Blade's will and that there was that other way, a way to save their beloved world and Aichi. The one who changed his life forever.

"I call on you Kai Toshiki," as he stood across from Kai in the soon to be arena for their final cardfight.

"Yes," Kai noted, holding his deck out before him, "We need to finish this here and now." Now this would be determined who's flames burned stronger. Kai had summoned his whirlwind dragon, his current Vanguard on the field, while Oliver Gaillard had used his Bluish Flame Liberator Percival. They were both down to an even amount of health left on their field. Kai had been preparing himself to call out to seek his Legion Mate. While Gaillard declared his attack, using the power of the bluish flames that represented his passion for this battle.

"Kai can only guard with grade 0's using that effect!" Naoki thought aloud, his voice laced with great concerned.

Leon turned to Ren who seemed to have a curious expression upon his lips. "Ah what will you do now.. Kai?"

The brunette seemed to not be swayed by the bluish flames persisting to strike his vanguard, as from his hand he laid down three grade 0's creating a shield total that was plenty enough to block off Gaillard's attack.

"Hmm, I like that look in your eyes," Gaillard began, "That amount of passion you hold so dear for your mates, for your eternal mate and to bring him back with you. I know the feeling all too well, which is why I can't afford to let things end here."

Kai smirked, as he himself found himself enjoying this match. He looked back at Aichi making sure his eternal mate would see him as he called for his mate. "Seek the Eternal mate!" he was bound and determined to get through to Aichi no matter what it would take. Aichi, I will bring you back home. We will find another way, together. Kai promised.

The deep crimson flamed surrounded the battle field yet again as Kai declared, "Trinity Crimson Flame!"

"One!" he started, attacking one of Gaillard's front units. He made sure to hold Aichi's gaze steady on him. He would come for Aichi, there were no other barriers in his way. There was no other way to live, until he could see his eternal mate again.

"Two." Yet another attack landed on a side unit, the two cards fell to Gaillard's discard pile, as he clenched his jaw for a moment.

"Trinity Crimson.." the final attack came in, Gaillard searched his deck, after having done Legion Mate previously before, he knew this wasn't the end. There was that chance for the heal trigger. He revealed the top card, "It appears the heavens have favored me," he smirked, revealing the heal trigger. "Have they favor upon you, Kai Toshiki?"

He started, declaring his Vangaurds main attack, using it's effect once again preventing Kai from guarding with anything but grade zeros.

The brunette smiled, closing his eyes for that moment as he declared, "Even if heaven had forsaken me, and I'm to be dragged into the depths of a hell, it won't stop me from my goal. I will save Aichi! And I will make a path for myself," he answered, successfully guarding with the cards from his hands. This was the end of the damage step, and Kai declared himself to now be entering the "Final Turn!"

This declaration was quite familiar, as it brought Aichi's attention to him once again. Lingering, his eyes were shaking seeming so lost, and perplexed on what to do. There was little distance between them now yet they were so far.

Aichi, I'll always continue to search for you, and seek you. I love you my eternal mate, and now I'll prove once again, I'm not the person I was before. I will succeed now that I have the power to save you. No matter the cost to myself.

Using again the power of his Trinity Crimson flames he destroyed the remaining front units upon Gaillard's side of the field. His final attack was to come in, Gaillard had managed to use his remaining hand to guard from Kai's final attack with his Legion Mate.

Yet, the winds were blowing along side of Kai's passionate flame, creating an even stronger crimson flame around him and his units. He would win this no matter the cost. He drew the card from his deck, the first check, a critical trigger. His second was surely his remaining hope, he would find that hope. No matter how far it was against the odds.

Second check. Both Kai and Gaillard found themselves smiling, even under this moment. Kai revealed the card,

"A second critical trigger?" Naoki was astounded.

"It seems as if the wind was guiding the triggers to Kai, leading him towards his goal," Leon explained.

Kai declared his final attack, "Dragonic Overload the Great, mow them down" Now Gaillard had all his heal triggers upon his field, there was no question. The pride of Kai's crimson flames had overpowered him again. "Realize the power of my mates."

As the vanguard field faded out, Gaillard felt himself going weak from that attack. "Since I have failed to protect him from you. And Now that you've defeated me. You need to save Aichi." He passed on that will to Kai, feeling a sense of hope. Perhaps there was another way.

Kai smirked in a rather arrogant manner, as he held strong to his belief he would succeed in carrying on Blaster Blade's will and saving his eternal mate. "That goes without saying, you don't need to tell me that" Aichi I will save you. No matter what it takes. Whatever it takes, I will save you from this suffering. I will take on whatever pain and save you from this isolation. My love. You will not be alone, anymore, sealed away from all you love and need. I will promise you that.

Kai turned towards the center of the room, as the once sleeping prince walked toward him, tugging onto his chest as he felt the pain of link joker, trying to break free from him. He looked towards Kai, thanking all of his knights for all they've done so far.

Aichi I will save you.

At last the final match was set to begin, Aichi stepped off the platform, the distance between them was finally reaching its close!

---

"Kai-kun" Aichi breathed out the name, his voice almost in a state of yearning. The moonlight seemed to cast over the two during their duel, against one another. Aichi's eyes were usually full of love, excitement compassion seeing Kai. Yet now they were darkened in deep pain and sorrow.

Kourin fought to keep consciousness as she feared for the worst, losing who she was before. That world. "Don't lose…" she left behind those who were so dear to her, all for this

"Aichi," Kai's voice commanded firmly, yet desperately. You can't look away from me anymore. We can't avoid this, and I will save you.

"The day I feared for more then anything has come," Aichi spoke rather bitterly, to be right here to see his beloved under these circumstances. The feeling of frozen daggers piercing against his heart, knowing well what he put Kai…and his friends through. All to protect them yet, There's no way around this. Kai-kun I can't protect you now that you've come this far. You'll be by my side, isolated from existence itself, as my Knight. As soon as this match is over. Naoki, Leon, Ren…all of you. "You know about what happened to me don't you?" Aichi asked his voice filled with anger and pain.

"Yes Gaillard told me," Kai responded, unwilling to lose his resolve, he wouldn't lose this, more then anything he couldn't afford to lose Aichi. The one who changed everything in my life, there is no world without you.

"After that fight with Takuto, Link Joker's seed entered my body," Aichi held his deck tightly against his heart, "There is no way to destroy the seed…" There is no other option. "When someone wins the fight the seed will carry on, onto them."

"It's an endless chain," Kai stated, knowing fully well how bad things had gotten, and his part in all of this. Which is why I don't want you to be alone…not anymore.

"When someone wins a fight and becomes more powerful, so will the seed of the link joker. It will only continue to grow…" Aichi stopped, "That's why there is no other choice, I have to seal this within myself, away from the world again. And disappear from existence, this entire world. That is the cost."

"There is no other way, Kai, to save the world from Link Joker." Aichi proclaimed, noticing the pained look upon Kai's face his lips pursed tightly as his eyes focused upon him. Just on him. It has been so long Kai…I only wish there was another choice. I won't have you go through this suffering. More then anyone else. Kai-kun…

Kai gazed at Aichi, looking into him, his eyes were solemn, yet had a small spark ignited. When remember the words of Blaster Blade, their avatar. The card that brought them together all of this time.

"Ren and Leon. Both of you I had believed you truly understood where I was coming from with this." He turned towards the blonde and red head, trying to read them. "I had believed you'd remain neutral, that you wouldn't interfere with this."

Ren was the first to begin, a sheepish smile on his face. Looking very much like a child who was being scolded. "Yeah sorry about that…I guess I ended up giving Kai my support in the end. But I still think there is another way. Besides you should have really seen how desperately Kai searched for you. I don't think I've ever seen him that passionate before. Coming to me for help." He scratched at the side of his cheek, still smiling despite his apology.

Leon looked over at Ren, as he finished, and closed his eyes before thinking to respond. "I am truly apologetic over this. But I have no wish to live in a peaceful world, at your expense." He explained there was nothing right with living that kind of life. Happiness at the expense of Aichi. Happiness being torn away from Aichi, and his eternal mate. Seeing Misaki and Kai two truly strong and generally adamant personalities, remaining so lost and broken, without a word to say. Ren's request in addition, he couldn't say no. "And at your destruction, Sendou Aichi, It would never be worth it"

The winds were guiding him in that direction, helping Misaki to find Kourin, and Kai to find Aichi. It seemed natural to help them, and Aichi's mates. "The thought of a world without you, was at the heart of why I had to refuse your request to watch beside you. At the time we couldn't see any other way around it. So until then we remained neutral. Now though we've learned through your mates, through Kai's belief that there was another way. A way to save you and the destruction from this world. Aichi you must have known how deeply you've become Kai's world. That he would be able to force open a new path. And is the only one able to do this now. We put our trust and faith in him. "

Aichi however remained solemn, looking down as he answered, "There is no other way…"

"Aichi." Ren spoke concerned. "You must know how far Kai was willing to go for you. That he led himself to you through the path that doesn't even exist. Or hadn't."

Naoki found himself unable to contain his frustration, clenching his fist as he added in. "That's right Aichi. Kai is the only one who remember you. After all this time, all of those times before, no matter the pain or suffering from Judgment he refused to forget about you. You have to know that! He had lost again and again, against Kai and Gaillard yet never gave up, he'd grit his teeth and get back up again. Refusing to give up on you, until he could see you again! You have always meant the most to Kai. And I may not know much about this. But I swore Kai meant the world to you as well! You can't honestly believe there is no hope."

Aichi remained quiet, refusing to truly step in, or persuade any of his mates, not now. Their persistence was painful. If only there was that other way. "Kai-kun…" Aichi felt him calling to him, wanting to understand, what other choice was there?

"Aichi it all started with that first encounter. Blaster Blade led me here." Kai started, that image of the Royal Paladin, Aichi's precious avatar their bond together being held through that link. That was what gave him the hope, the will to carry on and find Aichi. He knew he'd never stop longing and searching for his eternal mate. But it was at that moment there was hope. The path between him and Aichi would forever intersect. It was inevitable.

Aichi however would not sway his eyes appeared lifeless, as he held out a card from his deck. It appeared to have the same dark and sinister aura before it. The image on the card struck Kai, it was similar to Blaster Blade, yet the appearance alone felt surreal. That wasn't Blaster Blade, with that look in his eyes, so far gone as they were tainted. The eyes and all around were simply replaced with that bright red light from Link Joker. So lost… Much like his Aichi. "You mean this one.." Aichi held out the card, that had become tainted through Link Joker, that very card that represented the bond between them.

It wasn't Blaster Blade…It was… Kai gasped unable to truly accept that would happen, to their avatar. Their bond. "Blaster Joker?"

"You've got to be kidding me." Naoki had added in. To think that even Blaster Blade would become involved in this.

"Blaster Blade's been tainted by Link Joker?" Kai spoke in disbelief, as Aichi held that card before him as if this was all bound to happen. He had seemed so numb.

"Kai the Blaster Blade that led you here no longer exists." Aichi pointed out holding it before, him his words were cold as if spoken by someone else, through Aichi. What had the Link Joker done to him? Kai knew he'd find a path, to bring himself to save Aichi, he needed it now more then ever. Aichi's oceanic eyes were cold and dark as he finished, "The Blaster Joker, I have now is going to defeat you"

"I didn't think I'd be able to forge a path without fighting you, it would have to come to this.." Kai responded, I only wish I could make you see there's another way.

"Very well," Aichi prepared his deck. "I want you to promise me one thing. If you are to lose this fight you, Kai-kun…" the blue haired boy paused looking at Kai who gasped a bit in shock seeing the way Aichi looked at him. Asking again for Kai to obey his wish.

"Naoki, Ren and Leon when I win this fight, I want you to become the new quarte knights..." Aichi said, looking back towards Kai yet again. For Kai to come this far, for all of them to do so, awakening him and Link Joker within, they would have to take on the responsibility of sealing it away again.

While Naoki called out Aichi's name in confusion. Ren and Leon looked towards each other equally as perplexed.

Gaillard, Rati and Neve all seemed shock to hear of this as well for the first time too. So they were replaced? "I'm sorry you did nothing wrong," Aichi responded seeing the concerns laced on their faces. "I was too weak, and when I decided to seal myself away, I didn't want to involve people I knew. That's why I couldn't tell Kai…Naoki…Kamui, Misaki and those I knew so well. Instead I relied and asked of you all to become my knights. But this time it will be different."

I won't make the same mistake again. I couldn't find the courage to tell everyone what I was planning to do. I feared I'd be swayed and stopped by those I cared for. Especially by you Kai, after all I knew you'd never accept this. And I'd listen, because the words that come from your lips, have always been the most endearing.

"I'll defeat you Kai, and whoever else I need to face, I will fight them as well." Aichi declared this, "And when I defeat you all, I will have you four watch over my sealed form. The Link Joker travesty will not repeat itself again!"

"That's fine." Kai accepted it. He would go under any conditions if it meant he had a chance to free his beloved, his eternal mate. No matter what, he'd risk it all, and he'd be by Aichi's side until the end of time either way. His fellow mates however, seemed completely in shock.

"Kai?" Naoki called. How can you agree to something like that so easily?

He couldn't and wouldn't leave Aichi! Not after how far he'd come! "Aichi I understand your resolve. If I lose I will become a quarte knight and seal you away. But.." he held his deck close against his chest, the feelings from his fellow mates all were riding on this duel as well. "I will not lose!" His feelings towards his eternal mate, and bringing him home, was worth any sacrifice.

"Of course you wouldn't intend to lose, Kai, but neither do I" Aichi responded. The air around them grew thicker as they both placed their respective decks down beginning the fight.

"Stand up"

"The."

"Vangaurd!"

Their fight began from a start evenly matched. The power of the Link Joker was overflowing all across the cardfighting arena, it felt impossible to shake it. Yet Kai had his own resolve, he would not lose this. The wind blew through his own path, as he summoned his avatar. "Aichi I will be the one to bring you back, I realize your resolve and how strong you are. But I will show you there is another way, arise my avatar Dragonic Overlord the Great"

The crimson flames of passion spread throughout, demolishing the aura that came from the Link Joker, if only for this turn. "Aichi I will show you my crimson passionate feelings! The powers of mates. All I've learned along the way. To get to you, I've lost many matches, endured grueling punishments but It will be worth it. When I have you back. Aichi I won't leave your side, No matter the outcome." He promised the blue haired boy.

"I had a feeling, when I sealed myself up. That you wouldn't forget me." Aichi admitted, as he felt himself lost and wound up in those memories. I can't let myself be swayed by you. Influenced by your every word… Not again. Yet a part of me….am I happy? No that's not it this is going against the objective the fate of the world is at stake.

"You had the right idea, not telling me. Had you told me you would have planned to sacrifice yourself and seal yourself away. I would have stopped you. No matter what, I would never have let you go through with that. You know how much I love you, and all this time. I'd go through hell and back, whatever punishment it took, however many losses and judgments I'd follow you! I'd bring you home, away from this pain!" Kai confessed whole heartedly, as the crimson flames around him only began to intensify, he was honest, unlike those years before, all the words he kept inside he would use to reach towards Aichi. I've always loved you. My most important mate.

The words were enough to bring Aichi out of the trance and hold from Link Joker, as he looked at Kai desperately. There was not a doubt in Kai's mind as he saw him that he'd save Aichi, and Aichi needed to be home. That he needed to be with Aichi whatever the costs, whatever the circumstances.

"I never had anticipated you coming all this way," Aichi confessed, that pang on guilt stinging against his chest. He turned toward Kai, his knights, his friends….Why had it gone like this? Why wasn't there another way? Yet, there was no other choice.

"You were not mistaken," Kai caught him off guard. "Had I been the Kai you knew then there's no way I would have made it this far. But I'm no longer who I was before."

"You're not the Kai-kun I knew?," Aichi asked, he hadn't expected that. Kai's passionate crimson flames, they were starting to get to him.

"Through each of the battles, every loss and time I had to get back up again. I realized I wasn't alone, that I couldn't do everything on my own. I relied on my mates, those irreplaceable bonds. Naoki, Miwa, Tokura who risked it all to save not only you but Kourin as well. Each of these mates helped me believe in the path I was making for myself, and allowed me to be stronger. Now Aichi I will show you the power of my mates. I will bring you home, you are the hope our life. In mine…Each of us wished to see you, to never forget you. You changed their lives. You changed mine, Aichi."

"Kai-kun"

"You are our mate too. And my eternal mate."

The blunette felt himself moved by those passionate feelings, the words that made his heart shiver as soon as they fled from Kai's lips. He couldn't stop now…there was no choice. "I understand you Kai…" Aichi looked down for that moment, unable to think as Link Joker took over him once again, "But I'll show you how pointless that was, your mates all of that. And you four will become the new knights to seal me away. There are some things passion, emotions and mates can not accomplish…" He spoke so coldly the seed of Link Joker spreading in him even more, even his own knights couldn't truly see that this was the only way.

I've pledged my life to stay by Aichi's side yet…I'm somehow looking forward to seeing Kai fight. Gaillard had pondered there was something about him, that made you want to believe, to believe in that hope.

Aichi's heart became consumed with the power, as he no longer looked at Kai with those same eyes, he couldn't. His heart was breaking, as he summoned Blaster Link Joker. And proceeded to locking all of Kai's rear guards and attacking his vanguard.

This should be the end, Aichi had thought.

"So this is the power of Aichi's Blaster Joker." Kai clenched his jaw, finding himself in this bind. In just that one turn he already obliterated my rear guards. There's something different though. Kai said as he held his hand closely over his heart, Something about that attack Aichi. I felt something from you. It's so strong yet it feels as though you were calling out to me in that attack.

Kai had managed to save himself, barely from Aichi's attack taking two units from his hand to guard himself from further damage.

"I've understood when fighting Kai before, they are evenly matched.." Gaillard stated standing amoung the sidelines, "His resolve is just as strong as Aichi's."

Ren gave a knowing smile. "It seems that Kai has started to understand"

Kai stared into Aichi, their resolves equally as strong and overwhelming. It was as if their passionate and burning wills had made their way through to each other.

"How have you made it this far, Kai?" Aichi needed to know, was this truly all due to the power of the mates.

Kai closed his eyes, unknowingly, as the image of all of his fellow mates and their spirit emerged. He could feel their presence, and knew all too well with this bond there was never an intent to lose, no matter how bad things would get.

"Aichi," Kai called out to him, just as he understood Aichi, he needed for Aichi to hear him. To not give into the despair, and doubt there is only one way. They would forge a path together. Their paths should not have been separate from the start. He at last heard Aichi's plea. "I challenged you to this fight so I could defeat you. As I heard of the circumstances of your resolve to seal yourself away, I made a vow to myself. I swore that I would defeat you and let that seed inhabit me in your place." Kai pressed his hand right over the left side of his chest, holding it tightly. That area where Aichi would always belong regardless of the circumstances.

"Kai-kun!" Aichi's voice yelped out, his eyes were finally starting to swirl with emotion. This isn't what I wanted. Kai-kun, you above all else. I wanted to prevent this from happening to you. To protect you and yet…

The brunette smirked, "Hmm..," he felt a great deal of victory getting that reaction out of Aichi. There was an unrelenting light in those aqua-green eyes as they met with Aichi. The bluenette felt that certain feeling inhabiting him again, seeing that look, that overwhelming confidence. A part of his chest was throbbing and he felt his heart going off pace. He shouldn't have been moved yet! Seeing you like that. How are you always able to do this…Kai-kun. I-I can't though. I can't let you.

"Aichi," Kai asked, speaking his name as if it were the most precious and delicate word on all of earth and the planet Cray. He refused to let Aichi turn away to not see himself, calling out to him. A natural warm smile enveloped his lips, one that felt lost and misplaced, until seeing this boy once again. "Then will you become one of my Quarte Knights, and watch over my sealed form?" You will be the one closest to my heart. As long as you are beside me, I will take any pain. This is my resolve for you, my dearest, beloved eternal mate. Sendou Aichi...

Aichi was clearly moved from that question. How was he supposed to react? Those feelings he felt all those years were slowly but surely coming back twice as hard. It felt as if he was being exposed before Kai, and he was breaking down every wall, every shield every pillar of defense he held before him. Kai created his own path to him. And he couldn't deny that small part of him that needed Kai all along was growing bigger. Why did he feel he could believe in him?

But still. "Kai that's ridiculous!" How could he believe in this solution, wouldn't it be destroying all he worked for. Crushing his hope to protect his beloved from all of that pain before? "I could never do that" I can't let you be a sacrifice. Kai! He felt himself gasping softly, how had he let his emotions slip through this easily?

Kai's expression had turned from that gentle smile, to a rather somber look. His eyes would not move from Aichi, and the blue haired boy could see the extent of the pain, Kai was going through. "Yet, you'd let yourself go through that, Even though you'd sacrifice yourself, you can't bear the thought of me sacrificing myself? Do you really think I'd be alright. That either of us are meant to live in a world, or that we can survive without each other. Aichi, I know somewhere…we have a place."

"Aichi…" Kai breathed out his name. His soul mate, eternal mate. "You should know by now, my life without you has become meaningless. No matter the cost, knowing you are beside me, the person I love more than anyone else… I will be alright.

Aichi couldn't respond to that. His dark blue eyes were glistening at the words of his lover. How was he supposed to make Kai see? Why was this all seeming more possible, the more Kai would talk to him? He managed to forge his own path back into his heart all over again, or perhaps just rekindle the path that had existed his whole life.

"It makes sense, when I think about it Aichi. I'm exactly the same way. Aichi I'm going to shatter that determination. The idea that if one person is sacrificed everything can be saved…I will burn that image to nothing" Kai promised, his resolve would not yield. I will bring you home, with me. Wherever we are whatever the circumstances. That is where we belong.

"Kai-kun," It was all Aichi could muster, he felt himself entranced within Kai's world, his resolve.

"Picture it Aichi, That fragility of your will after I burn it away with my crimson flames of purgatory! I will make you see the will Blaster Blade entrusted to me. I will save you!" Kai vowed, as the flames around him engulf the entire arena. Leaving Aichi's previous resolve to start to dissipate.

Time itself seemed to stop in that moment, when Kai with his eyes blazing with those passionate flames, clenched his hand into a fist. He held his clenched hand before him as he spoke with absolutely certainty. "Final Turn!"

There was not a face in the room that wasn't at some degree surprised by his declaration. All of those memories and previous, heart racing moments were coming back to Aichi even harder than ever before.

He drew from his deck, with the power of his mates, Blaster Blade's will and his determination and feelings for Aichi. Those overwhelming emotions ran through to his deck, causing him to draw the card he needed all along, the one Kai foresaw the moment he declared this was truly the final turn.

"I ride Perdition Emperor Dragon, Dragonic Overlord the Great!" Kai called as the crimson colored avatar arose into the arena, burning with the passionate flames that could only come from Kai Toshiki. "And then seek the mate!" he had called, the third time during this duel, and he would continue to call for until his feelings overflowed within Aichi.

"This is his third Seek Mate?" Naoki was astounded.

"He really has been milking that strategy.." Ren added with a sheepish smile

"Seek Mate represents Kai's feelings for his mates. Those he fought alongside to get to this point, those who lost, who's feelings and wills he carried on." Leon explained, "And of course the feelings for his eternal mate, Sendou Aichi! As long as he holds to those feelings, Kai will continue to call on his legion mates."

"That's right," Naoki found himself agreeing, they had to believe in him. "Go Kai, slam into Aichi with your feelings!" We'll believe in you all the way. You are the only one to save Aichi.

Kai smiled hearing the support from his fellow mate, he nodded, before turning back to Aichi.
"Aichi!" Kai called the name of his dearest, eternal mate again. Instantly causing Aichi to react, showing that gleaming emotion in his eyes as their eyes met.

"If it would mean relieving you of your misery you must know that I'd-" Kai paused, "I'd be happy to offer myself up!"

"No, Kai!" Aichi cried out to him. I love you too much for this. You can't sacrifice yourself, I won't let you. Please…don't.

"Look around you Aichi," Kai turned his attention towards the knights, his fellow mates. Everyone who's heart had been moved by Aichi in the past. His precious friends. "Who else here is prepared to take on Aichi's suffering?"

There wasn't a soul in that room that hadn't found themselves in agreement.

"Of course," Ren answered with certainty.

"There's no need to ask," Leon responded.

"Naturally" Naoki spoke straight from his heart.

"I would be an honor," Neve had responded with diligence, pressing his lips towards his ring once again, his bond with Aichi.

"Yes!" Rati exclaimed enthusiastically.

Gaillard was dead serious, and certain as well. "I would be pleased to, Aichi."

At last Kai turned toward Kourin knowing the answer as well. The look on her face confirmed it.

Aichi has made an impact on all of their lives, and they would find that hope together.

Kai turned towards Aichi in confidence, the smirk not leaving his lips. It caused Aichi to only continue to react, stuttering in his speech. "W-what?"

"And I know even your mates who aren't here now would say the same!" Kai exclaimed to him. "Miwa, Kamui, Tokura.." Kai spoke their names softly, closing his eyes as their images reflected into his mind. They too shared this resolve. "If asked if they would be sealed away in your place, not one of them would shake their heads!"

"What are you trying to say?" Aichi's voice was being drowned out in the uncertainty.

Kai called to his eternal mate again, saying his name so tenderly as he explained. "Aichi, There's no need to accept your fate alone and sacrifice yourself. All of us will share that fate!"

"It's impossible!" Aichi stubbornly exclaimed. "There is only one seed," Yet Kai's resolve still hadn't shaken in the least. "There's no way you could do that." He tried to convince Kai…or perhaps himself.

"It's possible, Aichi, with Blaster Blade!" Kai remarked.

"Blaster Blade?" Aichi repeated, that avatar that brought them together throughout all of their lives.

Kai explained, "Aichi, before when you hit me with that attack from Blaster Joker. I understood. I sensed that strong will coming from Blaster Blade's sword. 'My Blade can cut through anything' was what he was saying, not only my avatar…but it had to be Link Joker's seed as well. Even though Blaster Blade is a Joker now, he still carries that will. His former knight soul exists. And if Blaster Blade too feels this way, I'm sure even Cray itself is willing to take in Link Joker."

"Aichi, can't you see it's just like during the battle of the Shadow and Royal Paladin" Kai finished, as Aichi looked in with great doubt. "But there's no way."

Even his former knight Rati spoke up, her too believing this way. "It has to be possible Aichi, cray is a wonderful planet. I'm sure it's possible!"

Aichi was beside himself in great doubt, unable to turn away until Kai called to him once again. "Aichi," he started, keeping the blue haired boy's gaze upon him firmly. "I'm going to defeat you now. And prove to you that I'm right." Kai proclaimed as his opened hand extended before him leading the way for his avatar to come into play. "A new avatar will arise. Dragonic Neoflame! Legion!" Kai commanded as his final attack was coming into play. The crimson flames of passion had now all but completely flooded out the darkness from the link joker. They came towards attacking Aichi's Garnet star. The two drive checks were made, both critical triggers, which he used towards the power of his avatar.

"I now stand Neoflame and Dragonic Overlord!" he called, feeling the passionate flames extending from his finger tips as they were commanded to stand once again. This would be it!

"Guard!" Aichi in an act of desperation took two of his units out to guard, as he clenched his teeth, overwhelmed by Kai's resolve. Those crimson flames burned their brightest at this moment, it was almost blinding.

"Drive check," Kai said, with the first revealed card, being a critical trigger. Now was even more a moment of truth, how far Kai's passionate flames and fighting style would lead him to victory. As he revealed the second card, he found his hope. His second double critical trigger!

Aichi let out a breath he had been holding for some time. Was this how you planned it all along, Kai-kun?

The flames were truly blinding as Neoflame and Overlord striked directly at Aichi's vanguard. The tainted Link Joker units faded from the battle field as the arena returned to its normal state. The four critical triggers in a row.

"That is Kai Toshiki's power." Gaillard stated having dueled him before, seeing the fighter Kai was now. That was what led him to victory, even under impossible circumstances. "It's what allowed him to withstand those overwhelming circumstances and call for a Legion Mate 3 times during their duel. That passion he held for his mates. For Aichi. Was what led him to victory.. Those triggers responded to his feelings"

The stands upon the cardfighting area collapsed down into the ground.

"I lose," Aichi admitted, his eyes overshadowed by the blue bangs falling in front of his eyes, as he felt himself growing weaker. Those red waves from Link Joker, began to make their way towards Aichi, threatening to possess the next user.

He grimaced in pain, as Kai came running over towards his side. "Aichi!" he called out, a part of him breaking inside seeing the one he loved in that much pain.

"Kai-kun." Aichi's voice lost it's strength as it desperately begged to hold onto his eternal mate. The waves from Link Joker escaped from Aichi's body, causing him to scream out in pain, as he felt himself no longer able to maintain that power within himself.

There is another way, Aichi. I know it. Kai found himself torn seeing Aichi in that state, he couldn't stand to see him like that a moment longer. Aichi bit on the inside of his lip and winced his eyes tightly shut, the Link Joker cards fell onto the ground before him. His avatar, that had once been Blaster Joker, began to change glowing with a translucent blue light.

The small arrowhead like seed emerged from Aichi's body as he struggled to maintain his balance. That small seed is what had caused all of this to begin.

Kai knew this was the time, he would believe as he called, pointing out his middle and index finger close together, calling out to their avatar. "Blaster Blade!"

As if a prayer had been answered Blaster Blade fought to become free from the possession held by Link Joker, he returned to his natural state. Just as the seed moved swiftly towards Kai, a glowing blue summoning circle, appeared around Aichi. From it arose Blaster Blade.

Kai called out merging his spirit with Blaster Blade. "You who would destroy the world. Be accepted by forgiveness and resolve. Now become a member of the world you had destroyed" Blaster Blade's spirit dashed towards the threatening seed, striking through it and breaking it apart. The seed may have not been able to be destroyed but that was not to say there was another way.

Kai split the seed in half, followed by Aichi and soon all of Aichi's knights, mates and friend's had merged their own spirits within Blaster Blade giving it the strength to divide the Link Joker seed further and further.

Those small fractals of the seed spread into the hearts of Kai, Aichi and all of their friends who came this far. They each took on their own part of the pain. "With forgiveness and resolve, fighters are able to head towards the future. This is the will Blaster Blade had always believed in." Kai proclaimed.

Aichi turned towards Blaster Blade. "Is Link Joker gone?"

The white paladin looked upon Aichi, having missed all that time that kept them apart. "While there is no way to destroy Link Joker, My vanguard. The seed was split into pieces and divided into the fighters who hold forgiveness and resolve in their hearts, each sliver of the seed will not have the power to take over a fighter. My sword also gave the seed a new property, when a fighter goes up against another fighter with resolve and forgiveness the seed will be split even further. The power from Link Joker will surely fade and become weaker, until it is within the hearts of all fighters" the paladin explained, stating also there would be a place for Link Joker, upon planet Cray it would too have its place.

"It was through those who fought to protect Cray, with such forgiveness and resolve that will lead them to find their place within Cray," Aichi's avatar turned toward the brunette, seeing his avatar looking at his eternal mate. Kai held a soft smile just for him, "Picture it, a land where Link Joker and other clans are able to coexist and compete, within Cray." The hope of that image came to mind, every clan having it's place. It made Aichi feel lighter.

"I see." Aichi finally found himself within Kai's resolve, You knew all along. "There is a future that awaits us."

The palace upon the moon began to fade from its original place. Aichi clenched his teeth tightly in pain, as he felt his body starting to collapse. "Aichi!" Kai called out, rushing to the side of the one he needed the most. Before Aichi could fall, Kai was right there beside him, his hand reached for Aichi's shoulder as he held the boy's slender figure against himself.

Kai's other hand held onto Aichi's back, pulling him close. "The long dream is over." Kai said, Finally. "It's all over my love, Aichi." You'll never go through that nightmare again. And never will you take this on alone.

It was truly all over, this nightmare, that seemed never ending. Kai could at last feel his beloved within his arms, he pulled him closer. "Kai-kun?" Aichi asked weakly as he felt that all too familiar blush staining his cheeks. Kai's warmth.

Kai pressed the boy's head against his chest. His heart beating, just for his love. "I love you," Kai whispered pressing his lips upon Aichi's temples. Kai-kun…Aichi found himself drifting into sleep. I loved you too. Thank you…

Kai and Aichi's friends seemed to fade into the background as Kai, pulled the boy in, a finger under his chin as their lips met softly, after so long they locked against each other, in that soft tender kiss. It represented their love and longing, after all this time.

Gaillard found himself, restrained by Neve, as he clenched his hand tightly. "Relax," Both Rati and Neve decided it was best to leave. "Ah, Oliver-chan, I think it's best we leave them alone for now. We'll see Aichi again. After all we are mates~" Rati spoke cheerfully and Neve steered him away. "Aichi had to be overwhelmed by those Crimson flames. Kai!" Gaillard spoke bitterly to his current rival in affections.

As soon as Rati left to guide Gaillard away. Neve returned slowly to help Kourin up and out from her current slumber. Her too exhausted from the Link Joker's previous attack on her. He carried her out along with the other knights.

"I think we should be leaving too," Leon spoke at the voice of reason, while Naoki and Ren seemed to stare on with interest.

"I always knew they were going to find each other again," Naoki said turning to follow Leon.

"Aww but it was getting to the good part!" Ren whined, feeling his wrist tugged on by the blonde as they turned to leave the two mates alone.

Kai-kun.. Aichi groaned out as their kiss ended, his eyes closed shut his head leaned against Kai's chest. The brunette scooped the smaller boy into his arms, holding him bridal style, his arm around the boy's slender waist and under his legs.

The half asleep blunette dangled his arms around Kai's neck, as he slowly fell asleep. Kai leaned down to kiss the boy upon his temple. "Aichi it's all okay now, we're going home"

---

At the crowded card capitol shop, Misaki Tokura sat by idly at the counter before her. The Jr. Tournament had begun so there wasn't anyone coming near the counter.

She'd occasionally glance over to the new fighters, and their matches. Then back down to that black ribbon upon her wrist.

I wonder where you are now...and of your memories. Even if they are gone. I know it'll be alright. If I could just see you. Misaki sighed staring off at the current matches being held.

The sound of the door opening that time hardly caught her surprised. Misaki stated nonchalantly, "Welcome to Card Capitol. Sign ups for our current tournaments however are currently full. But you're free to watc-" She stopped.

Time itself became frozen, as the smiling figure by the door, gazed towards her, with her soft green eyes. The woman at the door, seemed to have a brightened expression, as she caught Misaki's gaze. The lavender haired female, all but jolted from her seat.

That spark lit inside her again, the world around her began to flood over with color and vibrance. Misaki's eyes gleamed with passion as she said.

"Kourin!"

---

A/N Closing!

~Thank you so much for your support with this story. Sorry for the cliffhanger but it IS a happy end and within this week with the season finale I will be posting this stories finale/epilogue! There was a lot of events that happened and we're sadly coming to a close with the original cast being main characters. So much love for all the KaiChi and MisaKou moments 3And I swear Naoki loves that cardfight club,and was like the shipping mascot that day. It's like pretty much a rainbow club everybody can get a girlfriend or boyfriend we have Naoki/Shingo who in turn are the biggest Misakou Shippers and Aichi's already been with Kai since like he was 10 years old, so everyone at the club can be couplely, during club hours, except Aichi who has his cute moments after school as Kai waits by the gates for him and they totally have to stop sometimes for makeout sessions along the way to Kai's place. Because they're freaking newlyweds now. That's my headcanon and I'm sticking to it! Next chapter will be the finale/epilogue a week past now involving the season finales moments and my own rendition of how it should end. Stay tuned!