Yugioh Arc V: A New War

by HunterHQ

Peace reigns supreme throughout the 4 dimensions as calm is restored, the war ended and the worlds united thanks to the efforts of the lancers. However this was not to last. A new evil existing since the time of the original dimension is beginning to awaken. In this new war who will win and who will survive? (Takes place between previous 2 stories)

21. Chapter 20

Chapter 20

It was late evening and the sun was beginning to set over the sea, painting the skies in a bright array of yellow and orange before slowly turning into dark blue and eventually black. Peace was soon returning to the city as a number of crowds looked on either cheering for the lancers' and Jack's efforts for saving their city, while others on the other hand were booing or throwing garbage at the criminals being carted away into the trucks to be locked away for a very long time…..

"We're lucky that Security just so happened to be close by too, that makes carting off those punks much easier than we thought." said Yugo wiping away the sweat from his forehead, "Not to mention all those cards they got hoarded up in their base." He said noticing they were also loading a turn full of the cursed dark cards inside another van, "Phew…glad that's finally over with…." he said breathing a sigh of relief.

"Yeah, at least for now….." said Rin as she walked up to him rather seriously while looking at the van and truck driving away into the city, no doubt to the facility where they would be locked in a cell without a key.

Yugo then turned to her curiously, "What do you mean Rin?" he asked as the other boys and girls materialised around them interest in listening in.

She appeared rather uneasy before mentioning what she overheard a moment ago, "I actually listened in on Securities earlier when they were questioning Divine and his cronies. Turns out all along they were nothing more than pawns themselves." she said to their surprise. She continued, "Apparently from what they said, someone had broken into the security vault through unknown means days before this whole mess started, then later shipped them off to those punks to use as part of a scheme to throw the City into chaos and in exchange they could have what was left of it after and do with it as they pleased." she said.

Yugo then hissed in anger along with his brothers who were just as disgusted, "Tch! That's the worst deal I ever heard of!" he growled.

"Who would want the city become a ruin anyway!?" added Yuto as the thought reminded him of Heartland's darker days.

"Yeah no kidding, who would've thought that there'd still be people who'd be so rotten to the core they'd refuse to let go of the past and move on with everyone else…." added Selena feeling frustrated herself eat the attitude of some people even after all they been through.

"I find it more unthinkable that there would be some people who haven't been at all affected by Yuya's entertainment duelling that saved the worlds in the first place…." said Yuzu sadly as they all turned to her and then she jumped in shock seeing Yuya lowering his head feeling reply discouraged.

Yuzu then frantically apologies, "S…sorry Yuya….I didn't mean-"

"No, you're right Yuzu." he said softly interrupted to her surprise, "I'll have to accept that even with all my power and all the heart I put into my duelling, there will always be a limit to the number or kinds of people that I can save….it's a harsh reality but that's just the way the world is, and pretty much always has been even before it got split into 4." he said admitingly, "I may have thought my success in making Reira and Zarc smile before would have been enough to convince me that duelling with my father's beliefs alone would solve everything and they have so far. But after today and what happened at Academia, I've come to realise the world is still as it is and people will always be people. There's only so much I can accomplish on my own even with all my strength, but the world is still a huge place with different people, if I am unable to see that then I'd only be deluding myself and be duelling in vainly."

"Yuya…." she said feeling empathising with his feelings. Similar expressions of worry and sadness were soon shared around all 8 of them.

Yuya then smiled lightly at his girlfriend, "It's alright Yuzu, I'm actually at peace with that. Even with such a hard obstacle before me, I'm not about to let that stop me, in fact I'll just look at it as another challenge to surmount, maybe even as something I can aim towards as my life's purpose. And even if I can't reach out and win the hearts of everyone with my duelling and entertainment spirit, then I'll just focus on doing the best I can and saving those that I can." he said feeling hopeful and grasping his pendant with his hand, "Hopefully those I am able to save and touch would be able to see my actions as an example, therefore helping as well spreading the philosophy that duels shouldn't be used as a tool for violence or self gain. That way, we can all build a better and longer lasting utopia where we can all understand each other and make peace without ever needing to resort to violence."

The others then gave him an applause for his inspirational speech, "That's a great way of thinking Yuya," said Yuzu encouragingly, "And I for one fully support you and your dream too."

"Yeah, I almost thought you'd be moping about it but you may be more of a man than I first thought." snickered Yuri before being pinched on the chin by Selena! "OW!" He then saw her smirking at his pain before he rubbed it begrudgingly, "Jerk…." he grunted.

"What Yuri meant to say is the fact you're not only humble and willing to accept the truth, that there aren't many people out there like you." said Selena eying him seriously before returning to Yuya, "Instead of facing their problems they cower with fear and may either make excuses and blame others without taking responsibilities or even turn tail and run like the cowards they are. You should be glad that you're not one of those Yuya, in fact you're definitely a shining example of what all people in the 4 dimensions should be following or living up to." she said proudly.

Yuto then went up to Yuya and placed a hand on his shoulder, "If you ever feel like you're about to fall, just remember the hearts of those you have already saved, use that to remind yourself that you have been a hero to so many before and you still can and will be."

"You're carrying on their hopes and wishes, so let them give you the strength to brave any kind of danger the world may throw at you no matter how bleak or hopeless the situation may be." said Ruri kindly clasping her hands together.

"Also, just know that, if your back is ever against a wall, just remember that you'll never be alone. We promise it'll never come to that." said Yuzu taking his hands, "We'll always be there with you in spirit or otherwise."

"Friends to the end." they all said together.

Yuma's eyes began to water as his heart began to well up with emotion, "Thanks you guys…sniff….it really…means a lot…." he sobbed trying hard to fight the tears and wiping away those that have already fallen from his eyes.

"Hey come on now don't cry on us now….you're actually making me tear up too…." sobbed Yugo who was far less adept at keeping control of himself compared to Yuya.

"Wimp…." snickered Yuri only to be smacked by Selena again!

SMACK!

"OW!" he yelped covering his other cheek which was now swelling up and glowing redder than an apple!

"Apologise now…." she said to him firmly.

Yuri scowled and muttered, "S…sorry…." though Yugo took no notice of it because it was almost inaudible and he wasn't paying attention.

Yuya then tightened his fist ad looked up proudly, "Now I no longer have any doubts about what I'll do in this new war. I won't quit trying no matter the odds, and if the situation demands it I'll fight if I must, and I'll be sure to back up my words with the strength and action necessary." he then turned serious, "I now know there is definitely someone out there who wishes to harm the dimensions, to hurt our closest friends, to destroy everything we know and love, and everything we worked so hard to repair and build. And I vow I'll do everything in power to prevent that from happening, I'll be willing to do anything it takes without hesitation and I'll never quit trying until the day I give up duelling!"

"So beautiful…." thought Yuzu as she and the others felt rather inspired and motivated by Yuya's own positive energy and outlook on life as well as his sincere desire to protect. Some even were beginning to get all emotional….all except Yuri.

"Hmph…you guys are such wimps…." he said.

"That's cause you have no soul Yuri…." added Yuto to Selena's amusement, considering he already was a soul now.

"Hmph….."

"Well guys, I think we've spent enough time here in synchro, let's head home to Maiami and let Reiji know about everything that's gone down." suggested Yuya seeing as the sun was going down and it was almost nightfall.

"Sounds good to me." nodded Yuzu in agreement as Yugo and Rin began dialling on their duel disks to take them home.

"Alright, Maiami here we-" right before he could press the button to take them back their names were called by a familiar voice.

"Yugo! Rin!"

"Huh?" they turned around to see Jack Atlas himself coming before them.

"Hey Jack, what's up?" asked Rin curiously.

He then did small bow, "On behalf of the synchro dimension allow me to extend my hand of gratitude to the both of you for your effort in bringing this scheme to an end before it could grow into a calamity." he said as the people around began to applaud and cheer for them in thanks, "Once more we owe you lancers a great deal, a debt we cannot possibly repay you easily. So thank you." he said gratefully.

Yugo and Rin couldn't help but blush red in embarrassment, with all the praise they were receiving now it was nearly impossible not to, "Aww don't mention it Jack, we were just doing what anyone should be doing." chuckled Rin as she gave winks and cute poses for the cameras.

"Then again as lancers it's part of our job to be thwarting dimensional threats after all hehehe…" snickered Yugo as he waved to the people around them or gave cool thumbs up and poses for the reporters as well. They always wanted to be stars in the city once, and now that they achieved it they didn't write exactly know how to react, especially not with dignity or restraint.

"That is true," said Jack with a smile on his face seeing the children enjoying themselves, "But still if it weren't for you the City's newfound peace would have been short lived and everything we worked hard to build would be destroyed in a matter of days." he continued, "As Synchro dimension's greatest duelist I shall be willing to lend you my strength to help protect the peace of all 4 dimensions should you ever require it."

"No worries Jack really! There's no need for you to be so-" Yugo then stopped as a thought came into his head, "Actually….there is something you could do for us."

"Hmm? And what would that be?" he then asked.

"Excuse me Yugo?" asked Rin feeling rather suspicious, "What crazy idea has gotten into your right now?" she asked raising an eyebrow and shooting him a firm gaze. Considering they were in public and on live tv now she did have her worries on her friend doing something stupid in front of the cameras and making them a laughing stock.

"Relax Rin, it's nothing sleazy I promise!" he said assuringly while waving his hands out, feeling rather anxious at her piercing gaze. "In fact, I think you'll love it." he then said as he then grinned.

A little while later both of them found themselves duelling along the highways against Jack himself while being followed by several large groups of people just like the commons and tops did when Yuya was in his Friendship Cup duel. From row's gang following them on their runners and reporters coming in live from helicopters, the city night was bustling with light and energy for sure, "Can you believe it Yugo!? We worked so hard to duel Jack long ago when we were kids, now we finally get to do it together! Isn't this awesome or what!?" cheered Rin at the top of her lungs.

"Yeah! I know! It's like being in a dream come true! That's the best feeling you could ever experience!" he replied back as they both began laughing together with measureless joy. As they continued riding on Yugo felt the wind blowing across his face and as it did he could feel himself drift off into a world of speed. It was peaceful and calm yet also powerful and energetic, you'd have to be a turbo duelist to understand this feeling as such a duel under such high stakes and excitement also links them together. As he looked to the side he noticed Rin smiling and grinning deeply in excitement. He also felt it rather ironic considering it was also En Winds that was clear wing's weakness, which it also happened to represent as well.

"Hahahaha!"

A while into the duel when Jack synchro summoned Scarlight Red dragon archfiend and Rin had just finished calling out Wind witch-winter bell, Yugo then remembered something he meant to tell her so he dialled on to her communicator considering they were a little far apart, "Hey Rin, I just remembered something." he said.

"Oh? What's that Yugo?"she then asked curiously.

He then scratched his head rather uneasily, he usually had a huge ego as large as his head was so it was hard for him to show gratitude to others but he nevertheless managed to force the words out of his own mouth, "T…thanks a lot for saving my butt earlier today. If you hadn't come in at that moment, those goons would have had me flatter than a flapjack." he muttered.

Rin then grinned in response, "Hee hee, no problem Yugo, you'd have done the same for me anyways. We are friends after all." she giggled, "Then again, maybe I'd be doing the saving more than you since it's obvious who the smart and responsible one is."

"Heh! That's rich coming from someone who was completely helpless and locked in a tower 24/7 after being taken by Academia." said Yuri shrugging his shoulders.

"Yuri…." the others then eyed him with piercing glares.

"What? You know it's the truth, and no way am I about to let her get one up on us." he then added.

"About that…you wouldn't happen to know about a certain fusion card in my deck now would you?" said Rin after remembering something she wanted to say to them.

Yugo blinked, "Card?" he then remembered and turned rather pale after realising what she meant, "Wait could she mean….." he uneasily turned his face to the monitor where he could see Rin staring back a him with narrowed eyes, "Err Rin…about that…it was Yuri's idea!" he then said.

"Hey!" his brother growled angrily having the blame shifted to him.

"Is that so?" she replied as the monitor focused on his face despite him being a ghost.

Yuri then turned his head away and folded his arms, "Tch…fine…here it comes…let me have it as usual you nag…."

What she responded with instead came as a surprise to the others, "Thanks a lot."

As she said that the others looked to each other with puzzled looks or raised shoulders and arms in confusion, "Huh?"

"Say what now?"

"Definitely not what I was expecting….."

Rin continued, "It was thanks to you adding that card to my deck I've been able to get over my old trauma. Now I think I wouldn't mind using fusion as well as other methods in the future," she said feeling at peace now, "I may have used it to hurt last time, but now I'm not about to let that control who I am anymore. I'll use that power to help protect those who can protect themselves and make myself stronger, that's a promise!" she vowed giving him a firm expression of her vow.

Yugo felt rather speechless to learn RIn actually did use fusion and not only that she also got over what happened in the past "Wow Rin, that's great to hear. Glad you finally moved on from that too…." he said praising her efforts also knowing she was indeed stronger than before, "Maybe now we wouldn't have to worry about them so much as before…." he thought to himself.

Yuto on the other hand had thoughts go his own, "If Rin can grow out of her fears….maybe Ruri can too….I hope…." thought he still had a bit of uneasiness with her using fusion after what she once tired to do to him and Shun, he still knew the benefits if that power could be used for right instead, so began filling himself with hope that his close friend would be able to move and get stronger too.

Rin also recalled another previous thought form before and her smile vanished and was replaced with concern, "Although…."

Yugo's ears perked up hearing her, "Yes?" he asked curiously.

Rin then said her piece uneasily, "If it wasn't for a certain person the motivation I needed, I never would have worked up the courage to come to your aid or use fusion in the first place." she said admittingly.

"Really? Who?" the then asked as the other boys listened in interestedly.

The girls looked at each other before facing Rin, "The funny thing is…I don't really know…." she admitted scratching her head.

"Eh!? What do you mean you don't know!?" exclaimed Yugo in surprise.

"C…calm down will you!?" Rin responded, "I mean the guy who spurred me into casting aside my doubts to help you also gave me the this solid vision duel runner and riding suit, so I assume he's probably the same guy who gave you back your runner. Not sure how though….and I would've asked if he hadn't left in a hurry." she added.

"I see…." he replied interestedly, "Do you remember how he looks like though?"

"If you saw him like I did you'd never forget him." she answered, "You hold have seen his really gnarly black get up, also his runner, it was shaped like a really vicious black dragon! Even looks like one too! You won't believe how many times I felt it was going to snap at me at any time. It's like nothing I ever seen before!" she breathed in amazement as she described the whole experience as she began to relive that breathtaking moment once again.

Yugo's eyes widened in shock and exclaimed at the top of his lungs, "Shaped like a dragon!?"

"Y…yeah why?" Rin asked uneasily knowing that he knew something about this and wasn't screaming out of awe or surprise.

"Rin….you're not going to believe this….but the only one I know who uses a runner shaped like a dragon….is Yamata!" he answered to everyone's bewilderment.

"Say what!?"

"Yamata!?"

"The surprises never end do they?"

"Hmm?" Jack turned his head around suspiciously, "What are you both talking about over there? You seem to be rather unusually loud for a casual conversation…." he said.

"Oh! I…it's nothing Jack! Really! Honest!" cried Rin trying her best to hold a poker face.

"Y….yeah, just discussing a team turbo duel strategy to use that's all haha…." chuckled Yugo nervously.

"Is that so?" he replied before smirking in response, "Heh, well no matter what you come up with, I Jack Atlas shall easily smash through it with all my strength! Just wait and see!" he bellowed as the kids took a breath of relief that he actually bought what they were saying.

"Let's talk about this later Rin, right now let's focus on dethroning the King." suggested Yugo.

"Yeah, you get no argument from me…." she replied as they decided to put all their thoughts aside for the time being and focus on what was ahead for now.

(Ryuga POV)

Unbeknownst to the rest of the lancers, their efforts had not gone unnoticed by a certain rider who had been secretly observing them from afar the entire time. The same mysterious rider, who had given Rin the motivation she needed to come to Yugo's aid as well as the programme she needed to ride a solid vision duel runner, was watching overhead from a much higher platform onboard his dragon shaped runner. As he took of his helmet for a better look, it revealed to be none other than a smiling Yamata! "Look at them enjoying themselves, also I'd say the problems in the City will be solved for good after all that." said Ryuga who appeared next to him watching their friends in a fun duel against Jack with a warm smile, and they were soon joined by Jin and Nushi. Earlier today after sending the information to Jack and spurring him to aid in the attack against Divine and his men, they also sent word out to Security so they knew where to go and apprehend the criminals as well as helping to send word about their capture which would help bring peace back to the city at last.

"Yeah….would have been nice to enjoy the sights too along with them, and that duel looks like so much fun too….." said Yamata sighing rather disappointed, "Wish I could be down there with them to experience the new city rather than stay cooped up in an old garage working on those solid vision duel runners all day and night or patrol and observe the others from a distance." he pouted with a rather sour expression putting his hands on his hips.

Ryuga moved in and placed a hand on his shoulder compassionately, "I know how you feel Yamata, but you know if we want to protect them without exposing our cause we'll have to at least prepare and watch over them to make sure nothing wrong happens." he said patting him encouragingly, "Besides, after that pep talk you gave her back at the garage she and the girls will be able to defend themselves and their friends better than before. Overcoming their past fears and worries too, so the others won't need to keep protecting them, now they can protect others too." he continued.

"Yeah…." he then replied before looking at the others with an unpleasant expression, "But still why'd you have me talk like that? I sounded like some kind of old guru! Not to mention that outfit you made me wear, I also looked like some kind of shady hoodlum, the kind of person I absolutely can't stand the most!" Yamata then complained, "You won't believe how many bullets of sweat I made underneath my helmet the entire time, I even felt my tongue was about to get twisted or even choke at certain points!" he cried before lowering his head sadly, "Also, I can't believe you guys had me say some pretty nasty things to my friend too…."

"Why else would we role-play and have you rehearse those lines again and again the last few days?" said Nushi shrugging his shoulders.

"You'd easily give yourself away to them if you spoke normally, that's why you had to be…'out' of character so they wouldn't recognise you." nodded Jin in agreement.

"Also, you knew we had to motivate her somehow." continued Ryuga, "After their traumatic experience in Academia a while ago, no way were they fit to duel the way they were," he said acknowledging how severe that event was though gained a light smile after that, "Though it was lucky for us that Yuya and the others somehow snuck in a fusion card into her deck too, so that pretty much helped her out too in the duel and to believe in herself don't you think?"

Yamata sighed, "Yeah I guess so…but still….I sounded like a complete and total jerk too….also that dialogue was really corny and uncool too…." he said swallowing rather painfully with a memory that was engraved on his mind for a long time.

Jin then patted him encouragingly on the shoulder, "Well I found it to be very stoic and powerful in my opinion, if I were in Rin's shoes I'd definitely see the motivation in your words. You did great in my book that's for sure." he said praising him.

"I for one am relieved the girls could be fooled by a simple paint job and a little obvious acting too," said Nushi looking at the black dragon duel runner and Yamata's riding suit as he headed over to it.

They soon changed back to their normal colour schemes and design after Yamata dialled a few buttons on the runner. "Ahhh, that's much better…." he then breathed feeling more relieved to be in something more familiar and comfortable.

"We didn't have enough time to design and test out a new duel runner design, so we had to reuse your old dragon model with a different colour scheme. It's a miracle it turned out a success." said Jin.

Ryuga then placed his hands on his shoulder feeling rather pleased of their accomplishments over the last couple of days, "All in all, I'd say that everything here well won't you agree guys?" he asked to them as they nodded in response.

"Actually, I'd say that went way better than we hoped for." said Jin.

Yamata then nodded, "Mhmm, now not only is the City safe again but Rin managed to get over her trauma over fusion and hopefully Ruri would too later on. That would make them all much better prepared against whatever gets thrown at them in the future."

"Agreed, we'd also want to keep them all out of this as best as we can." said Ryuga in agreement looking down at the duel lanes seeing Yugo and Rin fighting with all their heart and determination Clear wing synchro dragon and Wind witch-winter bell against Jack's own burning soul, Scarlight Red dragon archfiend, "Hopefully while they deal with the symptoms we can handle the root cause and hopefully before it gets way out of hand. Last thing we want is to drag countless more innocents into another war, no….an extinction….." he then said with a serious expression which were soon mirrored by the other boys. "Who would've thought our dragons, would have had such a history too….maybe even before the Original Dimension." Over the last couple of days while in hiding, the 4 boys had been learning a few history lessons from each of their respective partners which had been quite the eye openers for them, a stunning revelation which would no doubt change the lives of everyone they knew and loved for the worst forever should they fail in their task…..

Looking around and noticing the people working more closer than ever in rebuilding the city and their ties with each other, they could tell the problems in the synchro dimension would be solved in a matter of days. "Well, looks like our enemies won't be attacking synchro again anytime soon, so I say it's time we moved on." said Ryuga as everyone then nodded in agreement.

"I say we check out the xyz dimension next," Nushi suggested, "No doubt that would be the most likely target, considering it's still undergoing repairs both physically and emotionally, making it an invitation for them to strike." he said from his experience as a former assassin of Academia when to capitalise a moment of weakness.

Jin nodded uneasily agreeing with Nushi's logic, "I agree, there's no way they'd risk attacking pendulum at this point, after their failures here and in fusion it stands to reason that xyz is most likely next on their hit list." he said before smiling lightly, "Also, personally I'd like to check up on my old home and comrades while we're there to see how they're doing too."

"Sure thing Jin, we'll do that while we're there." said Ryuga as he took control of the body from Yamata.

"Thanks Ryuga." said Jin in response.

"Then to xyz we go. Any objections?" asked Ryuga to the others for their opinions.

"Nope."

"None here." They all said or simply shook their heads.

Smiling firmly Ryuga then looked towards his disk and began dealing the coordinates, "Alright, now we-" right before he could press though, his eyes caught sight of something on a rooftop a few blocks away. A sight that made him skip a heartbeat and freeze in place for a moment.

The other boys looked at him curiously finding his sudden silence to be odd, "Is something wrong?" asked Jin knowing that if he were to get like this something was obviously wrong.

"Why did you stop Ryuga? What's holding you-" As Yamata looked in the direction of his eyes, the same feeling of anxiety came over him as the others turned around and saw the reason for Ryuga's pause. Far across them they could see a pair of figures leaping across them at rapid speed and heading towards where they were. They had suspicions on who they were but confirmed them after getting a closer look through an ancient telescope, revealing them as both Tsukikage and Hikage! Reign's loyal ninjas who were no doubt sent to hunt them down!

"Tch!" Taking refuge behind an alleyway, Ryuga then clicked his tongue in frustration seeing as though they were pretty much cornered, "I knew they'd find us here eventually, just never expected it to be this soon…." he muttered under his breath.

"You think they'd spotted us?" asked Yamata who was starting to panic somewhat.

"I hope not," Ryuga replied with a firm expression, "If they did no doubt they'd alert Reiji by now and pretty soon we'd have even more search parties after us. It's far too soon to get them involved in something they wouldn't understand or know how to handle, they'd only be hindering us and put themselves in danger."

Nushi then smirked deviously, "Then it's a good thing we're one step ahead of them right?"

Taking out his duel disk, Ryuga narrowed his eyes as he dialled over to a 'secret programme' we designed for this moment, "Yeah, I think it's time we used…that…." he said pressing it without hesitation.

(Ninja POV)

Both ninjas were in hot pursuit after catching site of their target assigned to them by Reiji. After learning of the attacks that took place in synchro a while ago they eventually returned knowing there was a chance Ryuga would be present as his sense of loyalty to his allies and his concern for the innocent would not allow him to ignore their cries for help when they are need. Sure enough their suspicions were confirmed when on patrol they caught sight of what appeared to be Shirogane down by a lower duel runner highway. "Do you see him brother?" asked Hikage turning to Tsukikage as they stopped right above the rooftop at where they last saw him before he vanished..

His brother narrowed his eyes, "It was for a brief moment, but I am certain it was him. Though I cannot confirm it just yet….." he replied.

"Regardless, Master Reiji did require us to alert him the moment we acquire the slightest lead." Hikage then added.

Tsukikage nodded, "I suppose this would count then." he said as he reached out and began to switch on his disk as he began transmitting a call, "Master Reiji, this is Tsukikage We have-"

BZZT!

Suddenly his connection was cut off, "What?" he said dumbfounded.

Hikage walked over he himself was surprised at the sudden unexpected development, "No signal? Impossible…."

Tsukikage placed a finger to his chin in thought, "Hmm…There can be only 2 reasons for this, 1. The connection is poor which is unlikely, 2. There is a jamming signal being used." he said.

Hikage nodded acknowledging his brother's theories, "But who would-"

VROOM!

The sound of a duel runner engine caught their attention. As they turned to the side they saw a red dragon shaped duel runner shoot out of the alleyways and rode away through the streets in a flash! Taking a closer look Tsukikage immediately recognised the runner and rider from the Friendship Cup, "It's him! It's Ryuga!" he cried out.

"What!? Are you sure!?" Hikage gasped.

Tsukikage nodded, "Yes I am certain of it," he said, "Think about it, would it be a coincidence that our signal would get jammed the moment a duel runner takes his leave from an alleyway? I think not."

Hiakge then nodded, "Come, let's make haste like the wind before we lose him! This may be our only chance yet!" They both then leapt across the rooftops and lower ground levels as fast as their ninja skills could take them! Not once letting the runner out of their sight!

(Ryuga POV)

Ryuga kept riding across the highways before breaking off the main road and into the lower grounds of the alleys to prevent drawing too much attention and giving away his position to anymore people. Eventually after zig zagging across the streets he came to the end of a narrow alleyway, covered in old strips of posters and graffiti and surrounded by rubbish of all sorts, and made a stop there when reaching the end. "Tch! A dead end….." he hissed at first before smirking slightly. After getting off he then dialled a few buttons on his duel disk before causing the runner to dissipate back into data and the riding suit to vanish as well, being replaced with his usual attire. After that he turned around to the entrance,

"Or so we want them to think, it won't take them long to come after and find us."

The other boys appeared around him ready, "Mhmm, we've prepared for this day and went through all sorts of scenarios, we're fortunate we ran through this one the most….and so far it's going according to plan….here they come….." said Nushi as Tuskikage and Hikage appeared in a flash before them.

"So we have finally found you Ryuga Shirogane." said Tsukikage as he and his brothers stepped forward and began closing the distance between them and Ryuga.

"Our search for you has taken us far and wide across Maiami and even the entire pendulum dimension." continued Hikage.

"But never in our widest imagination did we expect to come across you in another dimension, in the very same one where we detected chaos and dark synchro summoning." said Tsukikage, "I highly doubt that this can be a coincidence."

"It's good to see you guys again…." said Ryuga rather uneasily in his tone before admitting some truth, "And you're right, I am here on a mission of my own. One which I prefer to keep to myself and would appreciate if you'd not interfere or inform anyone else of." he said rather firmly.

"Regardless of whatever your cause is, we are here right now standing before you after searching for quite some time, and therefore we humbly request that you accompany us back to LEO Corporation," said Tsukikage as respectfully as he could, "Master Reiji has several things he would like to discuss with you."

"I admire your tenacity and determination to carry out Reiji's plans to the end with devotion and loyalty you guys." Ryuga replied as the ninjas smiled feeling relieved that their old friend was willing to come around, sadly for them, he had other plans in mind, "But as much as it pains me, I can't do that just yet."

They both raised their eyebrows suspiciously, "And why would that be?"

Ryuga sighed painful as he lowered his head feeling rather remorseful, "First off, I'll admit I may have been lying to you guys and doing plenty of things behind your backs for quite some time now, so I deeply apologise for that," after that he opened his eyes firmly, "But like I said, I'm on an investigation of my own and it's one which I wouldn't want anyone else to get involved in no matter what." he then said.

Hikage narrowed his eyes rather seriously, "Whatever your intentions are, we won't allow to continue operating like a loose cannon, you're returning with us one way or another, this is for your own-" As he stepped forward his brother then stopped him by holding out his arm, "Brother?" he asked turning to him surprised he was stopped.

"Wait Hikage," the blue ninja replied, "Let's be reasonable here, Ryuga is a fellow lancer and he probably has his reasons too." he said, "Allow me to speak with him more openly, he'd be more forthcoming if he weren't threatened or cornered." Hikage thought for a member moment before sighing and backing down, allowing the alter brother to do the talking instead. "Ryuga, surely you must have witnessed the events that have transpired here in the synchro dimension, and in the fusion dimension not long ago." he said, "The lancers are in need of your help and you know it. Even if you may have a secret mission of your own, but there's no need to undertake it all on your own. And besides, after what just occurred it isn't safe for one of our comrades to be on his own without any additional support." he said.

"Technically you guys I'm not quite alone on this." Ryuga replied placing a hand to his chest, "You do know that like Yuya and Yuzu, I have….inside friends that will lend me a hand when I need them most."

"Perhaps, but for what reason would you have to cut all ties with the lancers and to undertake this mission all on your own? It isn't like you at all." he continued trying to understand.

"Indeed, you are who values friendship and bonds more than any of us as far as we know." added Hikage, "Furthermore, many of us have feared the worst since your absence, and now that we have found you we can help them feel much more at ease knowing you are alive and well, or better yet back within our ranks."

Ryuga then hardened his expression at the thought of what his friends may be going through without him around in these dark times, "I'm well aware of that you guys….you won't believe how painful it has been to have kept such a secret from you all….my closest friends…or the pain or burden of having to have undertaken this task alone." he said, "But I can't afford to stop now, in fact it's because I can't let you all get involved is because I have to keep doing this by myself! And I'm not about to let anyone stop me now, even you!" he announced with unwavering determination.

The 2 ninjas then closed their eyes sighing that words won't be getting them anywhere now seeing as their friend had made his decision, "I see, so you have reasons you do not wish to disclose with us or with your follow lancers." said Hikage, "It is also clear you know something that we do not."

"It would also appear that your mind has been made up and you won't be listening to words or reason anytime soon." said Tsukikage next, "We will not force you to speak, however, we were ordered by master Reiji not to return without you." As Ryuga expected the both of them got into a fighting stance as they both armed themselves with their duel disks, "Because we are duelists of honour like you, I believe it's only fair we settle this with a duel, followed by an equal wager on both parties."

"We shall settle this with a duel. If we win you will return with us without another word or any shred of resistance immediately." said Hikage.

"However, should you somehow manage to emerge victorious against the both of us, not only shall we keep quiet about this meeting but we should the time come we will do everything in our power to convince Master Reiji to leave you alone." added his brother at the end.

Rouge's counterparts appeared around him, most of them with suspicion though only Yamata was the only one oblivious to it, "Alright, if we win this we'll be able to get the others off our backs for a while!" he cheered excitedly before looking to Ryuga enthusiastically, "I say we go for it, we can take these clowns easy."

Nushi placed a finger to his chin, "This sounds way too easy and good to be true." he said cautiously, "What's to stop them from running away in the middle of the duel or even giving away our position in the middle of the duel?"

"Nushi makes a valid point there…." added Jin, "They too have pledged loyalty and their word to Reiji, so it's likely they too would be doing something else instead to inform him, maybe they would be alerting him to our presence now."

I nodded in repose to them, "Thanks you guys for the heads up, and I think I've already got that covered." he said to them before facing his rivals, "A tempting offer you guys….But…."

"But what?" they then asked.

"How will I know you guys will keep your end of the bargain?" questioned Ryuga, "You guys are loyal to Reiji you'd even give up your own lives to help his cause and mission, how will I know if I can trust you on this?" he continued shooting them a firm expression, "As far as I know you might try to run in the middle of the duel and give away our location to the others, or you might have already notified them and are just stalling me till they get here."

"A fair point, but know this, despite being ninjas of the Fumma Duel School and clan, we too are noble duelists by heart." said Tsukikage, "We know much better than to for that would not only break our oath as honourable ninjas, it would also sully our honour and disgrace ourselves as duelists."

"Therefore we swear that you have our word we will keep our end of the promise, after all, not only are we allies as lancers but friends as well are we not?" added Hikage further reinforcing his brother's point, "Also, we will keep this duel between us, and we shall duel with our upmost abilities without any dishonourable means or tactics until the last life point is lost."

Ryuga then turned back to his brothers for their opinion, "What do you guys think?" he asked, "Sounds like they can be trusted."

While the others seemed satisfied with what they overheard Jin still had his doubts, "Just be prepared for when they may pull wool over your eyes or would try to make a break for it at any time." he said, "Knowing how tactical and crafty they are, they may use loopholes to our agreement or even somehow establish contact with Reiji or anyone else during the duel or even now. They might even be recording this here and now for later even if they can't share it to them."

"Then it's a good thing we have that little contingency ready as well." said Nushi motioning to my duel disk alone with another fail safe programme we also developed over the past few days.

Secretly tapping it and activating his duel disk Ryuga responded, "Very well you guys, I accept your challenge. We'll duel to settle my fate."

"Thank you for being reasonable Ryuga." said Tsukikage feeling grateful.

"But since we're duelling we'll play by a few conditions, after all it's 2 against 1 so I think it's only fair that you play by my rules." he then added.

"Hmmm…..despite the importance of our mission it too would be most disgraceful for the both of us ninja to duel against you under normal battle royale means." said the Blue ninja narrowing his eyes and finding my reasoning to be plausible, "Very well, name your conditions Ryuga and we shall determine if they are acceptable."

"Glad you guys can always be counted on to listen to reason." the dragon user replied, "Firstly, since it's 2 vs 1, I think it's fair that you both share 4000 life points to yourself, as well as sharing a single field, graveyard and a pair of pendulum zones to your side as if you both were 1 duelist. I on the other hand will still keep the basic 4000 life gauge and field setting for myself." he explained, "Then like a normal duel, the player that goes first cannot attack, and finally you both will be switching control when your side's turn comes around. Any objections?"

Both ninjas then looked to each other as if they were communicating on a telepathic level from what it appeared, "Hmmm…." they both then nodded in response.

"Your requests are both reasonable and acceptable." said Hikage.

"Very well then, may the best duelist win!" Ryuga respond as the field was enveloped in blue space and action cards were dispersed around and platforms materialising around.

Field Spell, Crossover!

DUEL!

Ryuga: 4000

Ninjas: 4000

"You guys can have the first move." said Ryuga calmly.

"We shall take you up on your kind and generous offer Ryuga." said Tsukikage politely.

"However, this is a duel for keeps so do not expect us to show any mercy." added Hikage strongly after that.

"I shall go first." his brother said picking a card from his hand, "First I set Scale 1 twilight Ninja Jogen in the pendulum scale!" he said laying 1 half the scale on his disk and the ninja monster rose in a pillar of light.

"I can almost bet Hikage's got the other half in his hand right now…." thought Ryuga narrowing his eyes as Tsukikage continued his move.

"Then I shall summon Twilight Ninja Shingetsu!" The swift and agile 4 armed ninja leapt onto the field, "Next I equip my loyal ninja with the equip spell substitution shield!" An ancient hazy shield appeared around the right side of the ninja, "With this my monster can negate an attack which targets it once per turn." Tsukikage explained as he took another 2 cards from his hand, "I then set one card facedown and activate the continuos spell Illusion ninjutsu art of hazy shrunken!"

As the all too familiar spell revealed itself Ryuga couldn't help but sweat a little anxiously knowing its effects all too well, "Oh boy….."

"That card sure brings back memories…." said Yamat sharing his brother's same expression and worry.

Nushi looked to them curiously, "What does that supposed to do?" he asked.

Tsukikage then explained, "While I control a ninja monster, if I ever add a card to my hand I can send it to the graveyard in order to inflict 300 points of damage to you!"

"*Whistle* Well that's going to be very annoying…." he then replied narrowing his eyes knowing we could be in for a rather short duel if we slip up even once.

"Yeah, if he adds so much as an action card to his hand he can inflict 300 points of damage to me." said Ryuga noticing the action cards hidden in various places around us and the fact they were facing off against 2 expert opponents.

"There's 2 of them on top of that, if they keep it up we may run out of life points before we even finish our next turn…." said Jin as Nushi then narrowed his eyes to Ryuga.

"You just had to challenge them both didn't you?"

"Relax guys, I have a plan, don't worry." he whispered to them assuringly, which had been noticed by their opponents.

"Discussing a plan of attack with your alter egos? You'd better hope it is a good one for your sake." said Tsukikage narrowing his eyes, "My turn is complete, it is your move now."

Ryuga then held back for a moment thinking carefully, "If I remember correctly Tsukikage usually plays defensively and prefers to wait for the right moment to strike while defending effectively, while Hikage focuses on a much more offensive play style and unleashes a powerful onslaught of attacks….just like the sun and moon they portray despite their contradictions they also greatly support each other." he said.

Yamata then smirked, "Guess it's a good thing we put together a new deck that should throw them in for a loop and give them a taste of their own medicine." he said knowing the ninjas themselves were in for a surprise of their own.

"I draw!" Ryuga declared drawing a card!

"Pardon my rudeness, but I shall take advantage of my brother's spell card right now!" declared Hikage who seized the opportunity of the standby phase to snag an action card from a wall before ejecting it into his duel disk! "Take this!" He declared as he threw 3 purple shurikens straight at Ryuga who held out his arm to block the incoming projectiles!

Ryuga: 4000-3700

"Urgh….That actually stung…." he grunted but as soon as he recovered he widened his eyes to see Tsukikage on the move too!

"And now from me!" he declared taking another and using it to deal damage a second time

Ryuga: 3700-3400

"Urgh….Double teaming on me alone?" grunted Ryuga as he pulled out one of the blades from his arm and tossed it aside.

"Call it unjust if you want, but there is a limit to our honour as duelists." said Hikage.

"We are still ninjas bound by an oath to see a mission to the end, so we will do what is needed to defeat you and succeed for Master Reiji." added Tsukikage as they both leapt into the air to continue their assault before he could continue his turn!

"I expected nothing less from you guys, but you'll need way more than chip damage to beat me." said Ryuga determined to stop them, "Since you control at least 1 monster and I have none, I can special summon Envoy of the Sun from my hand!" he called out as the ancient sun priest appeared on the field. "Then I activate the spell tuning! This spell allows me to add any tuner monster from my deck to my hand in exchange for sending cards from the top of my deck equal to its level." A card ejected from his deck, "The monster I choose is the level 3 Fire Ant Askator!" The monster was added to his hand and the top 3 cards of his deck were discarded being Prime material dragon, Kaiser Glider and Stardust shimmer, "But it won't be staying in my hand for long because I summon it to my field!" Appearing on the field was the ancient red ant monster.

The ninjas couldn't help but stop and see, "A tuner monster?"

"That can only mean one thing…."

"That's right you guys, what comes next is a synchro summon!" he announced as the level 3 ant changed into 3 rings for the priest to fly through! "When the Sun rises in the sky, it will illuminate all darkness! Pour down, radiant light! I Synchro Summon! Show yourself, Sun Dragon Inti!" As the light disappeared a powerful dragon appeared as its 4 heads roared an snarled viciously protruding from its sun body and it glowed as bright as the morning sun despite being under the night of the moon!

"A dragon that represents the blazing sun itself, impressive…." complimented Hikage as he had to cover his eyes with his arm due to its glaring radiance.

"3000 attack points…..but even so attacking is futile! My Shingetsu is still protected by substitution shield!" countered Tsukikage fearlessly.

"For one attack only, which is why I'm going to wait till I can get a second monster out or at least take out that shield." said Ryuga, "But for now I have no other choice but to end my turn."

"Then it is my turn then! I draw!" declared Hikage as he drew his card, as he did he then turned his head to his brother nearby, "Tsukikage!"

"I am on it brother!" he answered as he leapt onto a floating platform and snatched an action card there, "With hazy shuriken's effect I'll inflict 300 points of damage!" Once more the spell shot 3 dark shurikens which then struck Ryuga directly!

"Urgh…." he groaned as his side cringed with pain forcing him to clutch it.

Ryuga: 3400-3100

"You'd better do something quick Ryuga." said Jin feeling concerned.

"Yeah, at this rate if they keep this up, not only will we run out of action cards but we may run out of life points!" cried Yamata frantically.

"I'm way ahead of you guys." he responded eying his opponents carefully with their various movements and formations, "If I know them, what they plan to do now is-"

"Now for my turn!" declared Tsukikage as he raced for another action card, as he predicted.

"Don't think for a second I'm going to just sit back and let you!" Ryuga called out as Sun dragon shone brightly from the sky and into the ninja's line of sight!

"Gah! My eyes!" he cried as he stumbled back to the ground and began rubbing them, "Urgh…." he groaned trying to regain his balance and his vision only to find Ryuga now in possession of it while riding Inti!

"Sorry, but this card is mine." he said flashing it to the ninjas and halting their assault for the time being.

"Using your monster to stop me….impressive." Tsukikage muttered admittingly.

"It's obvious I'm no match for your physical skills, yet I can't just let you both keep damaging me as you please, so I'll have to improvise." replied the dragon tamer.

"In that case, perhaps I'd best get on with my turn." said Hikage preparing to avenge his brother, "I now set Scale 10 Twilight Ninja Kagen in the other pendulum zone!" The second ninja pendulum rose in a pillar of light and finished the scale, "Now with our complete scale we may summon ninja monsters from levels 2-8 simultaneously! Pendulum summon!" announced the red ninja as a pair of lights shot out, "Appear! Twilight Ninja Shingetsu!" A second 4 armed ninja appeared on the field, "And next, Twilight Ninja Getsuga the Shogun!" The powerful level 8 shogun appeared on the field in the center of both smaller ninjas!

"While 1 Shingetsu is in play, you can't target any other ninja monsters on our field for attacks or effects," said Tsukikage.

"But now that we have 2, our field is now untouchable!" concluded Hikage powerfully and proudly.

"Or so you say….." thought Ryuga already seeing a way around it.

Hikage unaware of this continued his move, "Next, I shall activate an equip spell of my own known as Fuhma Shuriken! And equip it to my own Shingetsu!" A large razor sharp shrunken appeared on the back of the ninja, "Now my ninja gains 700 attack points!"

1500-2200

"Prepare for defeat Ryuga, as our army now storms forward into battle!" he called out announcing his battle phase like a war general, "First Shingetsu attacks Sun Dragon Inti!" His ninja leapt several feet into the air before rising above Inti as it prepared to throw its massive new shuriken!

Ryuga narrowed his eyes, "Your monster is 800 attack points weaker, and if you think I'll let either of you snatch an action card like just now you're sorely mistaken!" he called out.

"A bold statement, but unfortunately for you that is not the case this time Ryuga." said Hikage, "I activate the pendulum effect of Kagen! Once per turn when a ninja battles, it gains 1000 attack points during the damage step!" The pendulum monster flowed which then caused Shingetsu to gain an extra 1000 points to surpass Sun dragon Inti's!

2200-3200

"Tch! That makes it stronger than my dragon….." Ryuga clicked his tongue before smiling under his breath, "But….at least my dragon won't be going down in vain nor alone." As the shrunken pierced the core of Inti it caused it to crack apart as light began gushing out of it! The dragon roared in pain before exploding!

BOOM!

The shockwaves only pushed Ryuga back slightly as he dug in his heels and held out his arms to shield himself.

Ryuga: 3100-2900

"Now your beast of the sun has been slain by a true warrior of the sun!" boasted Hikage triumphantly as his ninja took a stand by his side once more.

Ryuga looked up from his arms and smirked to their surprise, "Not bad Hikage, too bad I just so happen to be one step ahead of you."

"Excuse me?"

"When Sun Dragon is destroyed in battle, its special ability os triggered which not only takes its attacker down with it but it also deals you damage equal to half its attack points!" he called out as the soul of Inti rose form the grave and prepared to charge up a powerful ghostly flame in its jaws!

Both ninjas were taken aback by the unexpected development, "What!?"

"Impossible!"

"Hope you guys packed sunscreen because here comes Solar flare!" The synchro dragon fired its powerful flames at Shingetsu causing it to cry in pain before exploding into flames in front of both ninja brothers!

BOOM!

"ARGH!" they both cried being blown back before backflipping into an upright position again.

Ninjas: 4000-2900

"How's that for a counterattack? Now our life points are even!" smiled Ryuga also aware that he managed to shatter their invincible wall in a single turn.

"Huff….most impressive…." breathed Tsukikage admitingly before pointing out at their opponent! "Yet we too are also one step ahead of you!"

"When Fuhma Shuriken is sent to the graveyard it deals 700 points of damage straight to your life points!" declared Hikage as the shuriken materialised in HIS hand!

Ryuga widened his eyes in shock, "Say what now!?"

"Consider this a parting gift from vanquishing our comrade!" he declared throwing it himself at full force knocking the boy off his feet!

"GAH!" he cried landing with a hard thud on the ground!

Ryuga: 2900-2200

"Tch! That actually stung…." he hissed grasping the side of his shoulder before forcing himself back up.

"When Twilight Ninja Shingetsu is destroyed, its special effect allows me to add a new ninja from my deck to my hand to take its place." a card ejected from Hikage's deck, "The monster of my choosing is Twilight Ninja-Nichirin the Chunin!" he declared revealing it, "Now that your field is laid bare, Getsuga the Shogun and the remaining Shingetsu now attack your life points directly!" The shogun bellowed loudly as he threw his ;once straight at Ryuga! "Take this!"

Without hesitation Ryuga played the action card in his hand, "I activate the action spell big escape! Thanks to this the battle phase is now over!" The lance froze in place inches from Ryuga's face before returning to Getsuga's hand.

"A miraculous escape indeed." said Hikage before raising an eyebrow in curiosity, "Why did you decide to play it now? Had you used it earlier, you could have saved your sun dragon."

"True, but if I did that I wouldn't have been able to break your impenetrable lock would I?" Ryuga replied.

"Hmm?" After realising what he meant Hikage couldn't help but smile underneath their masks impressed, "Very clever indeed…..a risky manoeuvre but one necessary in order to achieve a great reward…." he said concluding his turn, "I now end my turn. It is your move now."

"Okay then, I draw!" called out Ryuga drawing his card.

Tsukikage then turned towards Hikage, "Brother quick! Before he summons any monsters!" he called out to his partner who responded with a firm nod as they both leapt into the air repeating their combination once more!

"Tch! They're certainly not wasting any time…." grunted Ryuga in annoyance as they each snatched an action card on opposite sides!

"Take this!" they both cried out as they threw a flurry of shrikes each which struck Ryuga and brought him to his knees!

Ryuga: 2200-1600

"Argh!" he hissed in pain but managed to hold himself together before collapsing to the ground, "Not yet….." he grunted forcing himself to his knees and seeing the card he drew. As he did he brightened up with a light smile, "Perfect! I activate the spell double summon! This spell allows me to normal summon twice this turn! With it I then summon Apocatequil and the tuner monster Supay!" Appearing on the field were a pair of ancient looking monsters, one a humanoid shaman wearing a huge mask and the other a large fiendish head, "While a tuner monster is on the field, Apocatequil's level increases from 4 to 5!" The level 4 thunder monster became 5 as Supay glowed in resonance with it, "Now I tune level 1 Supay to level 5 Apocatequil to synchro summon the embodiment of the night's moon!" The head changed into a single ring for the other monster to leap through, "When the moon is full in the darkness, the whispering of the night will be heard! Bury your foes in the shadows! I synchro summon! Show yourself, Moon Dragon Quilla!" Rising from the light into the moonlight sky was a beautiful blue dragon with 4 heads, similar in appearance to Inti though weaker in attack strength and had a moon core.

Both ninjas took a few steps back in awe at the magnificent monster appearing before them, "A second synchro summon…." breathed Hikage.

"First was a dragon of the sun, now a dragon which represents the moon….." added Tsukikage before eying Ryuga, "Surely this can't be a coincidence can it Ryuga?" he questioned.

"Maybe it is, maybe it isn't." he shrugged in response, "Next I activate the spell pot of greed, which lets me draw 2 extra cards from my deck." He drew 2 more cards and played them, "Now I play 2 continuos spells! Card of safe return and then Temple of the sun!" Both spells appeared on the field and glowed.

"What function would those 2 cards serve?" asked Hikage.

Ryuga smirked, "Wait and see," he replied picking another card from his hand, "I activate the spell monster reborn! With it I resurrect prime material dragon from my graveyard!" The physically disproportionate dragon of light rose form the graveyard, "Card of safe return's effect activates! When a monster is revived I may draw 3 cards!" He drew 3 extra cards due to the spell, "Then, with temple of the sun, when a monster is revived it gains 300 extra attack points!" The spell glowed brightly which gave power to the revived dragon!

2400-2700

"This is most troublesome…."

"Yes it is indeed brother…." both ninjas muttered under their breath realising the potency of their opponent's combo.

Ryuga then hardened his gaze at the new cards he acquired, "Hmm…these cards aren't what I was hoping for…..but maybe this one can….." he said noticing one of them which helped him think of a possible strategy later on. Returning his focus to the duel, "Since Substitution Shield can only negate one attack a turn, now that I have 2 they are now free to do battle! Moon Dragon Quilla attacks Twilight Ninja Shingetsu! Moongeist Flare!" The moon dragon's heads snarled viciously before firing bluish flames from them towards Tsukikage's monster!

Unfortunately, they were prepared for such an event, "It won't be that easy!" called out Tsukikage, "I activate the trap ninja smoke ball! With this trap I now end the battle phase!" The trap shot out a smoke ball which exploded after coming into contact with moon dragon's fire, completely smothering Ryuga's side of the field!

"Cough! Cough! I can't see!" he coughed covering his mouth as his eyes began to water and sting from the dust in the air!

"Now is our chance Hikage!" called Tsukikage immediately seizing the opportunity.

"Yes Tsukikage!" responded Hikage as they both leapt up and grabbed an action card each from different areas, "With Hazy Shuriken's effect you now receive 300 points of damage!" Declared Hikage as he discarded his and fired out 3 shrikes into the smoke! But as the dust cleared Tsukikage was about to discard his when his eyes widened at Ryuga instead standing firm with fewer injuries and more life points!

Ryuga: 1600-1900

"Hehe thanks for the extra life points guys." he chuckled in amusement.

"What!?" they both gasped in bewilderment, "Why did you gain life points instead!?"

"Simple, as long as prime material dragon is on the field, all effects that would damage a player instead increase their life points instead." he replied motioning to his dragon who was shining a bright healing light over him, earlier as the shurikens closed in Prime material flew into their way and caused them to explode into yellow sparkles which instead rained down upon Ryuga and restored his points rather than damage him! "Also, any effects that would destroy a card(s) on the field would be negated as long as I discard a card from my hand." he then added at the end.

Tsukikage then narrowed his eyes, "Hmmm, that monster very much shuts down nearly all of our tactics…..It's as if he planned for this very scenario when we were to find and duel him…." he muttered as his brother nodded in agreement.

"Perhaps we'd best hold off our shuriken strategy until we can rid the field of his dragon…." he said.

"While I am satisfied about the extra 300 points and having preventing you from continuing your strategy of using your teamwork wot whittle down my points, I still am a little disappointed I couldn't get you guys this time, but I can wait an extra turn before that happens. Turn end." said Ryuga ending his turn feeling satisfied with what he accomplished so far even if it wasn't as such as he initially hoped for.

The ninjas on the other hand held back and regrouped to strategise once more, "It appears we may have underestimated our opponent Tsukikage." said Hikage seriously.

His brother nodded, "Indeed, perhaps it is time we started duelling with all our might, for the glory of the Fuuma Duel School!" he responded as he began his turn, "I draw!" He then shifted to a different card in his hand, "I activate the spell armour ninjutsu art of reveal in order to resurrect Twilight Ninja Shingetsu!" The spell created a portal in the ground which caused the 4 armed ninja to rise up from the grave.

"I should thank you for that." said Ryuga suddenly.

"And why's that?" asked Tsukikage curiously.

"Because, since a monster was just revived, Card of safe return's effect activates! Allowing me to draw 3 new cards!" The spell glowed as Ryuga drew 3 new cards into his hand.

"So that card activates no matter which player revives a monster? This can be most troubling…." muttered Hikage while his brother held his firm expression.

"No matter what cards you drew, none of them will be able to break through our newly restored Ninja Combo Wall!" he proudly announced showing how the 2 Shingetsus once again created an impenetrable defence over their shogun warlord!

"We'll see…." said Ryuga under his breath as he narrowed his eyes.

Looking to each other the ninjas nodded, "It is time we divided and conquer!" announced Hikage loudly.

"Agreed! I shall draw his fire, you cover me!" his brother replied as they both leapt into action splitting off in 2 separate directions, making it impossible to keep an eye on both at once!

"They're splitting up? Guess they're trying to split my focus…." thought the dragon emperor as his brothers helped him keep a close eye on both opponents and their rather erratic movements all over the walls and platforms.

"Ryuga!" Tsukikage then called out catching his attention as they all turned to him as he closed in from their left side! "Your opponent is me! Twilight Ninja Getsuga the Shogun attacks Prime material dragon!" The large warlord bellowed a battlecry as he leapt forward and prepared and to cleave the dragon in 2!

"Here it comes…." thought Ryuga knowing exactly what was coming next.

"Due to the pendulum effect of Kagen, Getsuga now gains 1000 attack points!" called out Hikage as the pendulum glowed and gave a power boost to the warlord!

2000-3000

"Not if I can help it!" announced Ryuga seeing exactly what he was up to. He then ran up to a nearby dumpster and grabbed an action card stuck there, "I activate the action spell battle change! With it I can make my moon dragon the new target of your attack!" Prime material dragon flew out of the blade's way as Quilla appeared in its place! "At this timing, Quilla's effect activates! When targeted for an attack, I gain life points equal to half the attacking monster's attack points! Moonlight restoration!" Quilla let out a cry as it glowed brightly in the moon's light, showering Ryuga in more restoring light as he gained more life points.

Ryuga: 1900-3400

After that, Getsuga's blade cleaved it in half as it cried in pain before exploding!

BOOM!

Ryuga: 3400-2900

Ryuga used his arm to shield himself from the rest of the blast.

As Tsukikage landed on the ground after the attack he couldn't help but feel respect and admiration for the monster's sacrifice, "So your monster gave you a final parting gift before it met its end, a very noble and loyal monster it was." he said rather solemnly but was immediately replaced by surprise after seeing a smirk appear on Ryuga's face.

"Your victory over my dragon is my gain and for that I'm actually grateful to you for doing that Tsukikage." he said to the ninja's shock.

"Come again?"

"Because you destroyed my moon dragon it's final ability activates! This revives Sun Dragon Inti which sleeping in my graveyard! Now rise and avenge your comrade!" A portal opened in the graveyard and rising from it was the even more powerful sun dragon Inti! It roared powerfully and gave off a newfound radiance like a phoenix revive from its ashes!

Both ninjas took a few steps back in shock and disbelief at the development before their eyes, "Impossible!" they exclaimed.

"I'm afraid not," said Ryuga shaking his head, "Now due to my spells I draw 3 new cards and my dragon gains 300 attack points!" Both spells glowed brightly rigging the deck's key revival combo as Sun dragon grew stronger and Ryuga reloaded his hand with more cards to use for later.

3000-3300

"One more thing you ought to know." he continued, "If sun dragon inti gets destroyed, during my next standby phase I can then bring back Moon Dragon Quilla. However, if Quilla itself gets destroyed I can revive Inti automatically." he explained as both Hikage and Tsukikage were beginning to sweat rather nervously.

"I see, when the sun falls the moon rises in its place." said Tsukikage.

"But when the moon falls the sun rises to avenge it…..An impressive way of showing the cycle of night and day." Hikage added.

"It's like you guys in a way too, opposites yet also the same, aiding each other side by side despite being beings of light and darkness." said Ryuga.

"I shall take that as a compliment. I am deeply honoured." replied Tsukikage praising Rouge's efforts, but as Ryuga turned his head to see what his brother thought, his heart skipped a beat to see he wasn't present there anymore.

"Wait a minute..…where's Hikage?" asked Yamata who was beginning to feel just as nervous as Ryuga was.

As they all looked around for him, Jin was the first to notice him leaping above the higher platforms for an action card from behind! "Over there Ryuga! Behind you!" he cried out as they frantically turned around to where he was pointing.

"Huh!?"

As they did they saw Hikage grab hold of an action card, "You are too late!" he cried out, "I activate the action spell illusion fire! Now Getsuga the Shogun may attack once more in exchange for our other ninjas to stand down this turn!" The spell glowed around Getsuga as he stepped forward glowing with the aura and powers of his fellow ninja!

"Just like your dragons we too can aid each other when one needs it!" called out Hikage as he landed beside his partner.

"When it comes to bonds and trust in a partner no pair of duelists comes close to our skill!"

"Having me focus on the battle and using your own brother as a decoy to make me lose track of a sneak attack from behind? Sneaky….but clever…actually…." muttered Ryuga narrowing his eyes realising how easy it would be for them to take advantage of a situation the moment he lets down his guard. A mistake he would be very sure not to repeat again next time, if there was one.

"Oi! Is this really the time to be complimenting them!?" exclaimed Yamata who was starting to panic.

Ryuga looked to him assuringly, "Despite the stakes this is still a duel between honourable duelists and each with a noble cause so why not?" he said as the others nodded in agreement with him though Yamata still wasn't as enthusiastic.

"Now prepare to face our full powered teamwork!" called out Tsukikage as he resumed his battle phase, "Getsuga! Attack his Prime material dragon now!" he commanded as his shogun leapt into action once more! This time he won't miss since battle change only works once per monster. Anticipating what would happen next Ryuga turned around to see Hikage leaping out for an action card!

"Inti! Stop him!" Ryuga called out as his dragon charged ahead and bared its fangs trying to stop his advance!

"Too slow!" A second sooner, the red ninja managed to snatch the floating action card before narrowly avoiding the dragon's 4 jaws!

Ryuga grit his teeth in frustration, "Tch, now they're being way more coordinated and synchronised….they're moving too fast now, I can't keep up with their movements!" he inwardly cursed as Hikage played the card he gained to aid his brother's attack.

"I activate the action spell attack and defence exchange! This changes Getsuga's 2000 attack with its 3000 defence!" The shogun's stats were swapped, outranking prime material's strength by 600!

2000-3000

"Now! Slay his dragon!" he commanded as Getsuga managed to slice up the second dragon in half causing it to screech in pain before exploding!

"Tch! There goes my life shield…" grunted Ryuga seeing the balance of power shifting away from him once more.

Ryuga: 2900-2600

"Now that your defence is no more, you have nothing to protect yourself with from our combined barrage!" yelled Hikage pointing out at him, "It is only a matter of time now….I end my turn." he said concluding his turn.

Narrowing his eyes Ryuga was beginning to feel the pressure getting to him, but realising the stakes of the duel and wanting to keep his friends safe spurred him to continue fighting. "I won't give up….I can't….not with everything's that on the line….I have to win this no mater what!" He thought as he reached for his deck, "Here goes…I draw!" he declared drawing his card. Looking at it he smiled seeing it to be something he could really use now, "Alright! This could be just what I needed!" he thought to himself.

His cue to use it came just as Hikage called out. "I activate the effect of Hazy Shrunken! With it you will receive-" Before he could discard the action card-

"Not this time!" Ryuga interrupted cutting him off, "I activate the quick spell Bounce spell!" He quickly activated the spell form his hand, "With it I can take control of a faceup spell card as if I just activated it myself! Meaning Hazy Shrunken is now mine!"

"WHAT!?" both ninjas gasped and widened their eyes in disbelief as the spell glowed and caused hazy shuriken to disappear from their field and appear on Ryuga's!

"Since it can only remain in play if I control a ninja monster, it destroys itself since I have none," the spell then exploded into sparkles, "With it gone it means you guys won't be able to keep attacking me from a distance with your cheap cowardly tactics anymore." he said smiling confidently.

Tsukikage then placed a finger to his chin in thought, "Hmm….that was very unexpected yet most effective…impressive work breaking through our combination." he praised clapping before hardening his gaze seriously, "However, our teamwork is much more than hazy shuriken just so you know. Our bond will not be easily broken after a single fortunate move as that."

"I'm well aware of that, but at least this is a start." replied Ryuga as he narrowed his eyes at the situation, "Hmm since they both have their Shingetsu out, attacking and targeting them with effects would be meaningless….guess I have no other choice now…." he thought before looking at his hand, "Still, these 2 cards could be what I need to win this right here and now, or at least, gain one more turn…." He then took them, "I set 2 cards facedown and end my turn."

"That's it?" questioned Hikage, "Still unable to break through our combination I see…."

"Brother, we should strike while we have the chance!" called out Tsukikage to Hikage who responded with an affirmed nod.

"Agreed." he said reaching for his deck, "I draw!" Looking at it he smirked under his mask, "This shall do nicely," he said taking it, "I set one card on the field facedown!" A new card appeared on the field, "And then I shall Pendulum summon!" A single light shot out from the pendulum portal, "Appear! Twilight Ninja Nichirin the Chunin!" A red muscular ninja warrior appeared on the field, "And now my warriors is time to wage an attack against the enemy! Getsuga the Shogun attacks Sun Dragon Inti!" He commanded as Getsuga charged forward into battle and laid out his great lance! "Kagen's effect activates! When a ninja battles it gains 1000 attack points during the damage step!" The pendulum glowed transferring a large amount of power into the charging shogun who lead his army into battle against the great sun dragon!

3000-4000

"What is he thinking!?" exclaimed Yamata in bewilderment as Ryuga looked on just as puzzled.

"Even if he boosts its attack….." The ninja sliced a deep cut into the core of Inti as it roared on pain, sending a surge of electricity from Ryuga's disk into him! "Grrgh!" he grunted as it surged through him!

Ryuga: 2600-1900

Ryuga grit his teeth in frustration looking up as Inti's soul rose from the graveyard, "I don't know what you were thinking Hikage, but by destroying Inti it's special ability now destroys Getsuga! Inflicting damage to you equal to-"

"I activate the action spell Mirror barrier!" Tsukikage then called out activating the action card from his hand which created a forcefield around the shogun and blocked the incoming flames from Inti's spirit, "With it Getsuga is spared from being destroyed by your dragon's ability!"

Ryuga clicked his tongue, "Tsukikage…of course…." he hissed in frustration before looking to a backup plan, "Even so, I still have this! The trap cosmic blast!" The trap flipped up which then absorbed the sun dragon's soul inside, "When a dragon type synchro monster is removed from the field I can then inflict damage equal to its attack points! Meaning this duel is now over!" he called out defiantly as the trap fired a powerful dragon shaped flame straight at the blue ninja!

"What!?" gassed Tsukikage widened his eyes as he had only just exhausted himself physically after the previous move and was now trying to recuperate. Considering they both were sharing the same life points it wouldn't really matter who he targeted, though if he struck while Tsukikage was recovering he wouldn't be able to provide backup to his brother at a later time. As underhanded as it sounded Ryuga had to do what was necessary in this scenario to win. "Tch!" he hissed as he began sweating under the immense heat approaching him!

"Fear not brother!" a voice called out catching his attention at the last second!

Ryuga then quickly shot glance to the direction of the voice and gasped, "Huh!?"

Hikage charged into the fray holding out an action card, "I activate the acton spell acceleration! Thus negating your effect damage Ryuga!" He sped forward with his speed tremendously boosted by the spell as he leapt in and snatched Tsukikage out of the flames' way!

"They even avoided that too?" gasped Yamata who was nearly pulling out his own hair out of sheer frustration over the ninjas' store of miraculous escapes!

Ryuga narrowed his eyes, "You guys planned that from the start didn't you?" he suspected.

They both nodded, "We told you that you would be no match for our team work!"

"And now the bond of the fuuma brothers will see us victory!" They each said before ushering their command!

"Go! Shigetsu! Nichirin! Attack him directly and bring us victory!" they commanded as their remaining ninja warriors leapt into action straight towards Ryuga!

He narrowed his eyes and grit his teeth in response, "It's not over yet! I activate the trap Iron Resolve!" The trap flipped up and created a shield against their incoming flurry of blows and fists! "By halving my life points I can stay and fight for one more turn!" he grunted as the vibrations through the shield shook violently though he held his feet in place and remained firm!

Ryuga: 1900-950

As the ninja monsters returned back to their place both Tsukikage and Hikage couldn't help but feel impressed at his determination yet also rather remorseful that they had to crush it in order to defeat their old ally, "So you hang by a thread now…." said Tsukikage.

"Your resolve is admirable, but even so we cannot allow you to win this duel." said Hikage picking another card from his hand, "I set one card facedown and my turn is done."

Ryuga then fell to his knees and cringed with pain, "Urgh….This is getting way out of hand, but like them I can't afford to lose this match….for everyone's sake I must win!" Despite how much his body was suffering his spirit hadn't wavered at all. Slamming his fist into the ground he then pushed himself back up and stood up rather groggily before panting with exhaustion. Before the ninjas could say something out of concern, "It's my turn! I draw!" he declared drawing his card while fighting every ounce of pain coursing through his veins, in fact even his own breathing was beginning to put a strain on him but still his spirit continued to fuel his determination to win. "Now that the standby phase has been reached, Moon Dragon Quilla now rises from the grave!" The dragon of the moon rose from the graveyard into the night sky, "And due to my spells it gains 300 attack points and I draw 3 cards!" Both spells glowed unlocking the revival blessing combo once again as Quilla became stronger and Ryuga gained new cards.

2500-2800

Seeing his field was no longer bare, Ryuga gained a brief moment of hope, "Alright, now that I have a monster I can-"

"Not this time!" called out Hikage as he leaped into the air and grabbed a floating action card! "I activate the action spell Sky meteor! With this card I can banish a monster on the field with 2500 or more attack points!"

"What!?" Ryuga looked helplessly as a huge meter came in from the sky which hit its mark on Quilla, causing it to screech in pain before exploding into purple sparkles! "Quilla NO!" he cried as his monster was banished. But losing his monster and his field being bare again was only the beginning of his troubles.

"Since Quilla was banished it's special ability cannot bring back Inti! Thus breaks your cycle of the sun and moon!" called out Hikage pointing out at him.

"To think they'd managed to find its weak point…." muttered Jin rather disappointedly though also somewhat impressed.

"Now your field is laid bare, what will you do now?" asked Tsukikage calmly.

Ryuga then grit his teeth in annoyance, "Tch! There's nothing much I can do now…." he muttered painfully.

The blue ninja then closed his eyes, "It appears you can do nothing more, but perhaps that is your fate." he said, "You should make it easier on yourself and come quietly with us Ryuga, we shall allow you this one chance to resolve this peacefully without anymore needless force or violence." he said calmly offering a chance, "Whatever it is that is troubling you Ryuga, we can help you. Come back to the lancers with us, end your fruitless struggle and surely we can-"

"I refuse." said Ryuga taking a card from his hand, "I set one card facedown….and end my turn."

Hikage raised an eyebrow, "So you wish to go on?" he asked while Tsukikage sighed in disappointment seeing his negotiations turned down.

"Why would you continue to fight against us so much? Are your reasons that important?" he asked.

"More than you could ever imagine…." Ryuga replied under his breath while tightening a fist, "The very thought of seeing you guys get hurt by the disaster that would befall us too enough haunts me ever since I found out about it. In fact, everything that's happened so far is just a prelude and nothing more!" he yelled as if saying the very words were hurting him, in fact his expression tightened so much a tear could be seen falling from one of his eyes.

Both ninjas were taken aback, "D…Disaster!?"

"Prelude to something far worse!?" they gasped.

Ryuga clicked his tongue, "Tch! Guess I said too much there…then again I'm really frustrated so something was bound to slip up…better make sure that doesn't happen again.…" he thought to himself before sighing and deciding to confess at least a small amount of info so they wouldn't be left hanging, "I'll say this, thing will only get a whole lot worse if I don't do something about it soon! I can't disclose anymore about it for your sakes, and that's why I can't let you win this duel!" he declared.

Both ninjas said nothing at first till Tsukikage said, "If that is truly the case, you must know much more about this crisis than we first expected, perhaps this may be on a more cataclysmic scale than Academia or even Supreme King Zarc….."

"Which means we have all the more reason to win this duel and fulfil our mission!" finished his brother confidently before closing his eyes with some amount of remorse, "We hope you can forgive and hold nothing against us Ryuga, but we are merely following Reiji's orders and we shall see them through to the end!" Looking toward his partner on the side with his most serious expression ever, "Brother! Let us win this together with one last move! And dedicate this to our opponent who fought most honourably to the finish."

"Agreed." Tsukikage responded firmly as his turn began as he reached for his deck yet now he and his brother were now of both 1 mind and spirit for this, "Our draw!" they both yelled as the draw commenced.

"This is our final move Ryuga! Twilight Ninjas Shingetsu, Nichirin and Getsuga! Attack Ryuga directly with all your strength!"

"Bring us victory!" They commanded as all their monsters charged forward and leapt into battle against the now defenceless Ryuga who now narrowed his eyes and didn't budge form his spot despite the inkling monsters ready to assault him! "You are finished Ryuga!"

As they declared that, he couldn't help but smirk as his brothers too kept the same expression of confidence as he did, "They fell for it…." snickered Nushi in amusement.

"Do it Ryuga." said Jin instructing him to use their facedown card.

Without hesitation Ryuga did as told, "I activate the trap Full Steam Synchro!" As the trap flipped face up it displayed Junk warrior, Turbo warrior, Road warrior and Nitro warrior all charging straight into a Gate blocker 2 which was cracking up and about to smash into pieces, "This trap ends the battle phase the moment I am attacked directly, and when it does it special summons both a tuner monster and a synchro monster from my graveyard! Rise once more! Fire ant Askator and Sun Dragon Inti!" Both the fire ant tuner and sun dragon rose from the graveyard onto the field, "Now with my combination of spells, temple of the sun and card of safe return, they each gain 300 attack points and I draw 3 cards for each for them!" The spells glowed empowering both revived monsters and allowing Ryuga to draw 6 cards and refill his hand.

3000-3300

700-1000

"Even now you still continue to resist…." stated Tsukikage, "Most admirable, but also futile! I trigger the trap Armor Ninjutsu art of rust mist!" The trap flipped face up and generated a rain clid over the field as it poured down rather quickly and ended shortly after that before a mist rose and enshrouded the field.

"Wh….what is this?" asked Ryuga uneasily knowing there was more to the card's effects than a change in the weather. He could tell also seeing that his sun dragon and fire ant were becoming slower and more sluggish from the cold and moist air.

"Allow me to answer your question," said Tsukikage calling out from his side of the field, his figure and side almost completely hidden from sight because of the mist, "With this toxic mist, the attack points of all your special summoned monsters are now cut in half!" As he said so, both monsters shivered gained a dark aura which drained them severely of their strength!

3300-1650

1000-500

Ryuga's brothers narrowed they eyes or hissed in frustration alone with him in the tight spit their were forced into, "Tch! They're really trying to pin us down now….." grunted Yamata in annoyance.

Jin and Nushi however weren't as put off as he was because they knew they still had a chance to turn their situation around, "Even so, we still do have one shot at this Ryuga." said Jin a he nodded in response.

"Yeah," looking at his hands he noticed a handful of cards that would help finish a winning combo, one which neither Tsukikage nor Hikage would be able to defend against. All that was missing was just a single card, "I need just the right card then our winning combo will be complete….." he thought as he focused his attention on the duel.

Both Hikage and Tsukikage were planning contingencies of their own, "At this point, Ryuga's only possible aim would be to aim for our ninjutsu cards…..however," Tsukikage looked to his brother Hikage who nodded back at him.

"I now possess a twilight ninja Shingetsu in my hand, with nichirin I can send it to the graveyard in order to protect them from being destroyed." he said eying his field and hand, "Furthermore, Tsukikage and I each have an action card, evasion and acceleration. With this our strategy and teamwork cannot fail!"

"This duel is ours!" they both thought together confidently.

Ryuga took notice of their facial expressions even when afar and through the mist, "I know that look in their eyes…..they think they've gotten us beaten and cornered." he thought out loud to his brothers.

"Hehe, well they couldn't be more wrong." snickered Nushi as the others nodded in agreement.

"We still have one draw left, and despite these odds I know my deck will respond…..it has to…." as Ryuga put his hand on the top of his deck his brothers placed their hands with him, showing how they were going to give him their strength for this last draw. Feeling the power and faith coursing through his hand he knew his next draw would not miss, "Tsukikage, Hikage." he said to their surprise.

"Hmm?"

"I understand your determination to see every mission through, the courage to brave any and all risks and dangers, and your honour as both ninja and duelists to keep your customs and traditions passed down from your many generations." Ryuga continued, "You both have been worthy duelists to drive me and some of my best monsters into such a small corner. With that you both have earned my respect."

Both ninjas were rather taken aback by his words expecting something else rather then praise and respect. But nevertheless they were flattered and could tell he was indeed genuine, "We are honoured to be praised by you Shirogane." said Tsukikage as he and his brother bowed down. "Does that mean you will be surrendering peacefully?" he then asked.

"Far from it." Ryuga replied to their surprise, "It's because you earned my respect I'm going to hold nothing back from this point on. Also, for the sake of our mission and to protect our friends I have to win this! Which is why I'm betting this outcome on one final draw!" he then called out.

The ninjas blinked in disbelief at what they just heard, "Sake of your mission?"

"Protect your friends?" They both questioned.

At that point they both could sense Ryugas determination not only to win but also to protect grow even more stronger than ever, "His resolve….it's growing even stronger than ever….."

"His quest….Is it truly….that serious? If so….."

"We've come too far to lose, and there's no way I'm about to let myself get defeated here, losing isn't an option, not in this duel and not in this war!" said Ryuga as he and his brothers performed their destiny draw, "Draw!" After that looking at it they could see it was exactly the card they needed, "It's time to end this once and for all! I tune level 3 fire ant Askator to level 8 sun dragon Inti!" he called out as fire ant changed into 3 rings for the flaming sun dragon to pass through!

Both ninjas widened their eyes, "What!?"

"A third synchro summon!?

"Out of two will come one, and out of one comes great cosmic might! Watch, as the cosmos creates a monster of galactic right! I synchro summon!" A star in the sky began to flare up brightly despite being so high above in space, "Appear! Emissary of the flaming star! Level 11! Star eater!" A massive supernova of an explosion occurred in deep space, rising out and wrapping its body around it was an enormous red serpentine dragon which wrapped itself completely around it and it roared powerfully before descending to earth and blazing so brightly in the night sky that it could be seen from anywhere in the entire city!

The ninjas couldn't help but step back in awe and stagger at its enormous pressure that it gave off, "A dragon that represents the brightest star of the galaxy….." breathed Tsukikage.

"The one used by a tops duelist in the Friendship cup…..but now it runs brighter than ever in the hands of a true dragon master….." gasped Hikage before narrowing his eyes firmly, "Remarkable, but even that monster cannot hope to overcome us! Especially with rust mist still in effect!" The mist rose up and enshrouded itself around Star eater's flames weakened and its attack power halved and it groaned rather weakly as well.

3200-1600

"Now your dragon's flames are about to get extinguished!" he called out.

"It won't be long before that star burns itself out." added Tsukikage feeling more confident about their chances of winning.

Ryuga however held a firm expression, "Even in such a weakened state, my star can shine brightly, and will even more so after this!" he said taking a card from his hand, "I activate Shrink! This halves the attack of a monster on the field!" He said as the spell appeared on the field and glowed.

"Pointless! With our Shingetsus on the field you can't target any ninja monsters with attacks or effects!" called out Hikage defiantly but Ryuga only smirked in response.

"I never said I was going after your ninjas." he said.

"Hmmm?"

"You're not?" they asked raising an eyebrow suspiciously knowing something was up.

"No, the monster I intend to weaken is my own star eater!" Ryuga answered as the spell caused Star eater to shrink to half its size.

1600-800

"Why would you weaken your own monster?" asked Tsukikage curiously and rather surprised as the move made little sense, unless there was one more card left to play. Which of course was the case.

"It's so that I can use this!" Ryuga answered taking the card to complete his winning combo, "The continuos spell Hidden Passage!" he announced activating the spell from his hand, "Once per turn, if all my monsters have attack points lower than my opponent's weakest monster, this turn it can attack directly!" The spell glowed around Star eater as it granted it the power to bypass the enemy monsters, "Go Star eater! Attack directly with Burning Supernova!" Despite being weakened the dragon glowed a bright red as its flames flared up best it could as it fired a stream of vicious fire pass the twilight ninjas and straight at both Hikage and Tsukikage!

Seeing the attack as hardly a threat to them, both ninjas simply held firm, "You would waste so much effort in order to attack us directly with a mere 800 points of damage?" asked Tsukikage feeling rather unimpressed.

"Too bad it is all for naught!" called out Hikage as he planned to activate evasion from his hand, "I activate-"

"It's over for you guys! Nothing you do will save you now!" Ryuga interrupted as Star eater suddenly flared up and its size began to increase!

"What!?" they gasped in disbelief.

"When Star eater attacks, it is unaffected by other effects until the end of the damage step! Therefore the effects of Shrink and Rust mist are no longer applied, so my dragon gains its full strength once more!" called out the Dragon emperor as Star eater rose back into the sky and regained its full power once more, in a direct attack that could not be stopped!

800-3200

Seeing themselves unable to do anything to prevent their inevitable defeat, both ninjas couldn't help but stagger to the ground or fall backwards as the attack closed in, "Impossible! How could our teamwork be easily overcome!?"

"There's nothing we can do….we're finished…." as they focused their eyes on Ryuga's expression they finally understood why they had lost, and so they closed their eyes gracefully accepting their loss.

"His determination to keep fighting brought him a miracle…."

"So this is his…..resolve….." they both said as the attack finally hit its mark!

BOOM!

Ninjas: 2900-0

Ryuga: WIN!

As the field dissipated and the dust cleared, it revealed both Fuuma brothers knocked back several feet through the alleyway and they were now lying on their backs, "Urk…I never once fathomed the possibility that our combination would actually lose….." groaned Tsukikage as he awoke to see Ryuga holding out his hand with a smile to him. "Urgh…you are as strong as always Shirogane….no wonder you were able to handle yourself just fine all this time….then again, it shouldn't be a surprise." he smiled taking the hand and getting up. After that he did the same for Hikage and helped him to his feet as well.

"Thanks, and you guys were great too. In fact your teamwork skills are far beyond anything I ever imagined." said the victorious dragon duelist as he smiled back at them putting his hands on his hips, "But we did have a deal…..I won the duel, so you keep quiet about our meeting okay?"

Both ninjas looked to each others for a monist before nothing firmly at Ryuga, "Yes, as the victor of the duel you have earned your reward and we shall honour our agreement." said Tsukikage as he and his brother both bowed down in respect to the victor.

"Perhaps we can trust you to handle yourself on your own mission, and you have our word that we will not say a word of this to Master Akaba." said Hikage in response.

"After that stunning performance as well as managing to breakthrough the teamwork we spent years mastering, it's only fair that we keep end of the promise as well." added his brother who was still rather reluctant though his honour and pride as both ninja and duelist kept him from dwelling too much on their defeat. They both then looked up to Ryuga rather firmly, "We still do not know what would drive you to go so far, but if it is that important to you, perhaps we should respect your reasons."

"But know this, if you are ever in need of assistance, know that the both of us shall rush to your side without a moment's haste." said the other after his brother.

"I'll keep that in mind you guys. Thanks." replied Ryuga knowing that they had earned the trust and respect of the Fuuma clan duel school's best students as well as Reiji's most trusted warriors.

"Farewell." with said as they vanished into thin air, no doubt returning to the standard dimension.

After confirming that they had curly left the area, Ryuga placed a hand to his chest and breathed a deep sigh of relief, "Finally, it is finished….." he said pretty much tuckered out completely from the duel as the fatigue returned to his entire being once again. The feeling was mutual among the rest of the dragon boys as they appeared and sat around Ryuga.

"Phew! That was way too close for my comfort." said Yamata wiping away some ghostly sweat from his brow, "I was biting my finger nails the entire time!"

"Even I had some doubts that we'd be able to win, but in the end you can never count out faith in your cards." said Jin feeling rather proud of their new victory and achievement.

"Yeah, let's hope we can keep up that firm belief in our cards and friends too." stated Nushi, "I have a feeling things in the xyz dimension would only become that much harder….."

"All the more reason to keep believing in each other and in our cards I suppose." said Ryuga as he mustered the strength to stand up again, "Anyways, lets get out of here while we still can. No doubt that match caught the attention of the entire synchro dimension. We'd better hurry on out of here while we still can." As the others nodded in agreement, Ryuga dialled a few buttons on his disk which opened a new dimensional portal to the xyz dimension which they all stepped through.

And thus concludes the synchro arc. Hope you enjoyed the duel conclusion as the lancers' mission will soon take them into xyz! What new challenges shall they face and overcome? Just what lies in wait for them in the city of Heartland? Find out and stay tuned!

Full steam synchro

When an opponent's monster declares a direct attack: End the Battle Phase, then you can Special Summon 1 Tuner and 1 Synchro Monsterfrom your Graveyard, but they have their effects negated.

Substitution shield

Once per turn, you negate an attack on the equipped monster.