Yu-Gi-Oh! Arc-V: Pendulum of Connections

by Imagine97

(Remake of the Arc-V series starting from the beginning.) What would happen if Yuya was more confident and skilled as a duelist? What if he had an older brother? What if Yuya had slightly different beliefs in dueling but the same intentions? Conflict never ends. Everyone is tied by bonds they don't know that exists which lead to two choices: Peace or Destruction.

24. Duel of the Dimensions, Yuya vs Yuto

Thank you to everyone who read the last chapter. Also, thank you to Ravimar, Gonzox-kun, and Germancardfightfan for commenting on the last chapter. Here's some of my responses:

Ravimar - Thanks for the comments. Don't worry, it's a figure of speech. If you just like the story, you don't really have to do anything. :)

Gonzox-kun - Don't know how you concluded that but keep trying my friend. ;)

Germancardfightfan - From this chapter, Yuya only needs two more wins to qualify while Sora and Rin only need one. I guess I kinda understand the confusion so sorry about that. So basically a couple more chapters until the Maiami Championship officially starts. And thank you for enjoying the story.

---

Chapter 24 - Duel of the Dimensions, Yuya vs Yuto

---

MAIAMI CITY - HARBOR

Yuya just stared at Yuto who still had his duel disk pointed at him, asking for a duel with him. It seems Yuya was trying to guess what Yuto had in mind by dueling him. Lucine raised an eyebrow in intriguement as she watched this unfold. The other girls however looked worried and confused as to why this was happening.

Yuzu held out a hand in concern, "Wait a minute. Why do you want to duel Yuya?" She was confused as to why Yuto was challenging him.

Rin had a stern expression on her face, "Yeah. What gives? Aren't we on the same side?"

"We are. But that's not the issue." Yuzu and Rin turned to Lucine who appeared unfazed by what Yuto said. It seemed she had an idea as to why Yuto was doing this. Yuzu and Rin didn't really know what she was implying.

Ruri held a hand to her heart as she frowned, "Yuto...what are you thinking?" Even she wondered where this was coming from as she looked at both boys in concern.

Yuya didn't say anything as he continued to look at Yuto who was confused as to why he wasn't responding. Eventually, after a few seconds, Yuya smirked as he looked at Yuto, "Alright, I accept." Yuto nodded in response.

Soon after, Yuya and Yuto stood a few feet away from each other as they got their duel disk ready. The girls were sitting on some crates nearby as it was like watching from the sidelines. Lucine just had a passive expression on her face as she seemed a little interested in what might happen. Rin was mostly confused but looked interested at the same time. Yuzu looked a little worried for Yuya as she doesn't know how this will play out. Ruri, while concerned about both boys, just looked on with a frown on her face.

Yuzu turned to Lucine with confusion on her face, "Lucine, can you tell us why Yuto wanted this?" Ruri and Rin wanted to know the same thing as they stared at Lucine in anticipation.

Lucine didn't say anything for a few seconds before she replied with a neutral tone, "You'll find out later in this duel." Yuzu and Rin were confused by what they heard and didn't like that she dodged the question but they'll have to deal with it for now. Ruri stared at Lucine in curiosity before she turned to Yuto with a thinking expression on her face.

"Ready?" asked Yuto as he stared at Yuya with narrowed eyes. Yuya narrowed his eyes back at him, "Yeah." After a few seconds, both duelists shouted.

[DUEL!]

YUYA LP: 4000
YUTO LP: 4000

"I'll take the first turn. Draw!" said Yuto as he drew his card. He stared at his hand for a few seconds before he grabbed three cards from his hand and held them, "I set 3 cards from my hand." He placed them face-down as they all appeared in front of him.

Yuya raised an eyebrow, "Three cards face-down?" He wondered what the strategy was.

But then, to Yuya's surprise, Yuto said, "I end my turn." He did nothing else as he ended his turn.

"Huh? That's it?" wondered Yuya as he was a little surprised Yuto didn't do anything else. Yuto didn't respond as he looked at Yuya with a neutral expression.

Rin was confused by this, "Wait, all he did was set 3 cards. Did he get a bad hand or something?" This seems a little unorthodox in her opinion to just place set cards on the first turn.

Yuzu shook her head, "No. This is the same strategy he used before." She remembered that he used that type of move on Sawatari before and wondered how Yuya will respond to it.

Lucine and Ruri weren't fazed by what Yuto did as they have both seen him do this before when watching his duels. Now, they're both curious how Yuya will respond to him.

While still a little taken aback and seeing Yuto not giving an answer, Yuya shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly, "Alright then." He placed his fingers on his deck, "It's my turn, draw!"

He then raised his head and narrowed his eyes, "What is the strategy here?" He was trying to figure out exactly what Yuto was up to. From what he's seen, Yuto is being very calm about this whole thing. He needs to be careful about whatever he's up to especially with those set cards. He remembered a little bit of what Yuzu has told him about how Yuto defeated Sawatari but it wasn't much to go on so he'll just have to make due with it.

Meanwhile, Yuto was thinking about something as he looked at Yuya, "If what I heard is true, he might be very strong." When he had tea in a shop one time, he heard a rumor before about how Yuya dueled Reiji Akaba. According to the rumor, he even tied with him. Regardless whether that is true or not, Yuto is staying cautious and watching how Yuya duels.

After looking at his hand for a few seconds, Yuya picked up a card and showed it, "I Normal Summon Entermate Friendonkey (ATK: 1600, DEF: 600, LV: 3)!" Yuya summoned a friendly blue donkey that wore a top hat, green and red polka-dotted tie, and carried two star boxes on its saddle.

Yuya held out his hand, "I activate Friendonkey's monster effect! When this card is successfully Normal Summoned, I can Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Entermate" from my hand or Graveyard! I summon Entermate Momoncarpet (ATK: 1000, DEF: 100, LV: 3, PS: 7)!" From one of the boxes, it opened up and released a purple, furry squirrel monster that had the body of a carpet and was flying around as it was wearing a white turban.

Yuto narrowed his eyes as he noticed something about the two monsters Yuya summoned, "Two Level 3 monsters…" His eyes widened a little incredulously, "Can you actually…?" Does Yuya know how to Xyz Summon?

Yuya looked at his monsters, "I overlay my Level 3 Friendonkey and Momoncarpet!" Yuto was surprised as he watched the two monsters turn into dark energy that surrounded a portal.

"Watcher hawk of the show, descend upon the stage and fly! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 3! Entermate Archer Hawk (ATK: 1800, DEF: 1500, RNK: 3, OVU: 2)!" A cartoonish brown hawk appeared next to Yuya. It was standing on two legs as it held a bow while also wearing a green archer cap and vest.

Yuto got over his surprise as he regained his stoic expression, "I wasn't aware you could Xyz Summon." Yuya simply shrugged it off with a smile on his face.

Lucine looked a little intrigued, "Hm, interesting." Lucine was feeling the same as Yuto as she wondered what other skills Yuya has hidden. But it would take more than that for what Yuto is doing. The other girls were the only ones not shocked by this as they knew Yuya could Xyz Summon beforehand.

Yuya looked at the set cards Yuto had face-down with a cautious expression, "I don't know exactly what he's trying to do. In that case…" He pointed at his monster, "I activate Archer Hawk's monster effect! By using an Overlay Unit, I target a Magic or Trap Card my opponent controls and destroy it!" An Overlay Unit vanished as Archer readied his bow and launched an arrow that destroyed one of Yuto's face-down cards.

Entermate Archer Hawk (OVU: 2→1)

Yuto didn't react to it and just kept a straight face. Seeing this made Yuya sweatdrop a little, "Don't react much, do you?" Yuto didn't respond again as he looked at Yuya with a neutral expression. He was a little impressed that Yuto is keeping his cool under certain circumstances.

"Well, maybe this will make you! Archer Hawk attacks you directly!" Archer readied his bow and aimed at Yuto, ready to launch an arrow.

Yuto narrowed his eyes before he pointed at Yuya, "I activate the effect of the Trap Card: Phantom Knights Shadow Veil in my Graveyard!" A portal opened up in the ground in front of Yuto.

Yuya's eyes widened a little, "A trap from your Graveyard?"

Yuto took out the trap and held it up, "When my opponent declares a direct attack, I can Special Summon this card as a Normal Monster!" He placed the card on the duel disk and summoned the ghostly, sword-wielding knight that rode a horse.

Phantom Knights Shadow Veil (ATK: 0, DEF: 300, LV: 4)

"Huh, interesting strategy," said Yuya with an intrigued smile before he pointed at Yuto. "In that case, I'll have Archer attack Shadow Veil!" Archer launched his arrow and pierced through the knight which destroyed it.

"When it leaves the field after summoned this way, Shadow Veil is banished instead." Yuto pocketed the trap card after it left the field.

Rin looked a little surprised by what Yuto did, "I didn't expect him to use a trap from the Graveyard, let alone use it as a monster." It was an unorthodox strategy that many duelists don't see too often.

Yuzu nodded as she watched in anticipation, "He used the same strategy from before." Lucine and Ruri didn't comment as they both have seen Yuto do this before and are just waiting to see what happens.

Yuya placed a card in his duel disk, "I set a card and end my turn." He looked at Yuto, "It is only the first turn but I'm already intrigued by what Yuto is doing." He honestly can't help but feel a little excited as he wondered how this duel will go. However, he is aware that this duel isn't for fun or competition but for something else. And he might have an idea what it could be but he's waiting for Yuto to give him confirmation as he hasn't said anything. Yuya figured he might have to wait until Yuto is willing to reveal it himself.

Yuto stared at Yuya for a few seconds, as if he was contemplating something, before he placed his fingers on his deck, "My turn." He drew his card before he pressed two buttons, "I activate the Trap Card: Phantom Knights Corrode Scales. With their effects, I can Special Summon them as Normal Monsters in Defense Position." From the glowing trap cards came two monsters that were ghostly knights that had no legs or arms, each just wore an armored head and scale armor that appeared to be corroded.

Phantom Knights Corrode Scales (#1) (ATK: 300, DEF: 300, LV: 3)
Phantom Knights Corrode Scales (#2) (ATK: 300, DEF: 300, LV: 3)

"Two trap monsters that are both Level 3," commented Yuya. "I have a feeling I know what you're about to do."

As Yuto nodded in acknowledgement, he then held out his hand, "I overlay the Level 3 Phantom Knights Corrode Scales!" Both monsters turned into red energy that surrounded a portal.

"Phantoms that went through countless battles, revive and begin anew as old strength! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 3! Phantom Knights Worn Axe (ATK: 2200, DEF: 1300, RNK: 3, OVU: 2)!" Yuto summoned a ghostly knight that possessed a black suit of armor that protected the main body and legs. The knight had no head or feet as it was just carrying a black metal axe in its hands that appeared to be a little worn out.

"As expected from someone who lived in the Xyz Dimension," said Yuya as he looked at the Xyz Monster in intriguement. "Still, it is pretty cool to see non-monsters used for the summoning method."

Either Yuto didn't pay any mind or just didn't care right now, he brushed off what Yuya said as he pointed at him, "Battle. I'll attack Archer Hawk with Phantom Knights Worn Axe! Vengeful Chop!" The axe glowed purple as Worn Axe flew straight forward and slashed Archer Hawk in half, destroying the monster and made Yuya crossed his arms in front of himself to protect himself from the small blast.

YUYA LP: 4000→3600

Yuya moved his arms away to look at Yuto, "When Archer Hawk is destroyed, I can add an "Entermate" monster from my Graveyard to my hand." Yuya took Friendonkey and added it back to his hand.

However, as Yuya thought he was done, Yuto then said, "It is not over. I activate Worn Axe's monster effect. When it destroys a monster by battle, by using an Overlay Unit, it can attack again in a row." Yuya's eyes widened as Worn Axe absorbed an Overlay Unit into its axe.

Phantom Knights Worn Axe (OVU: 2→1)

"Go, Worn Axe! Attack Yuya directly!" Worn Axe then flew towards Yuya, ready to chop away at his life.

"Don't be so hasty! I activate the Trap Card: Defense Draw!" A barrier protected Yuya just as Worn Axe swung at him and was blocked. "This card reduces battle damage to 0 and I get to draw a card." The barrier soon disappeared as Yuya drew a card.

Yuto stared at Yuya for a few seconds in silence before he placed two cards down, "I set two cards and end my turn."

Yuya drew his card, "It is my turn. I draw!"

After Yuya drew, Yuto held out his hand, "I activate the Trap Card: Phantom Knights Dark Gauntlet! I send a "Phantom" Magic/Trap Card to the Graveyard from my Deck." He sent Phantom Death Spear as a result.

Yuya then brushed it off as he looked a certain card in his hand, "Should I use it?" Considering their situation, it might not be a good idea. However, he's also trying to prove himself and this might help out. Yuya sighed, "Well, I guess I'll go for it."

"I Normal Summon Entermate Friendonkey (ATK: 1600)!" Friendonkey was brought back before Yuya continued, "Friendonkey's monster effect! I bring back Entermate Momoncarpet (ATK: 1000) from my Graveyard!" Momoncarpet also appeared again on Yuya's field.

Yuya looked at the card again for a couple seconds before he picked it up and showed it, "I activate the Magic Card: Polymerization!" Yuto's eyes widened in both shock and intensity as he heard the card's name. Lucine glared at Yuya when she heard the name of the card. Ruri frown a little but didn't look concerned while Yuzu and Rin were.

"I fuse Entermate Friendonkey and Momoncarpet on my field!" yelled Yuya as the two monsters were absorbed into the colorful vortex. "Friendly donkey of tricks! Combine with the feline made of carpet in order to reach new heights! Fusion Summon! Appear, star protector of the natural world! Level 6! Entermate Natural Mage (ATK: 2400, DEF: 1900, LV: 6)!" As the vortex disappeared, a female green-haired mage wearing a brown dress appeared on the field. She had blue eyes as well a brown robe covering the top of her head. There was a ribbon made out of leaves tied from her left shoulder to the opposite side of her hip. She was wearing a necklace made out of sunflowers, hanging around her neck. In her right hand, she was wielding a wooden staff with an emerald on the end of it.

Yuto narrowed his eyes at Yuya cautiously, "You know how to Fusion Summon and still choose to use it regardless of learning about Academia?" He was really sceptical of seeing Yuya Fusion Summoning especially since he is aware of their conflict with Fusion. It is like that time he and Lucine witnessed Yuzu Fusion Summoning. He wasn't aware that both of them knew how to use that method even though he saw that Academia agent trying to teach Yuzu how to use it. Now, he's wondering what Yuya was thinking since he used that accursed method.

Yuya looked back at Yuto, "I learned how to Fusion Summon for a long time before I knew about Academia. Besides, I'm not narrow-minded." As Yuto was confused from hearing that, Yuya raised a fist in resolve, "Even though I use Fusion Summoning, I'm not like Academia. I don't use dueling for causing destruction or violence. And I don't believe the summoning method is bad. It is the people who use it for the wrong reasons are the ones to blame."

As Yuto's eyes widened in surprise, Yuya wasn't finished as he smirked, "And besides, if I don't use it, it would be considered holding back and I don't want to make that mistake again. As a part of respect and a fellow duelist, I will come at you with all of my strength!"

Yuto pondered what Yuya said for a moment before he muttered, "...I see." While he wondered what Yuya meant by not making the same mistake again, he was more concerned about the other things he mentioned. He will admit that Yuya might be right about how the method is used but he still remembers the pain it caused to him and his home. It can't be as simple as that.

Ruri frowned a little before she turned her head and noticed Lucine staring at Yuya while clenching her hand against her arm. Ruri placed her hand on Lucine's shoulder which made her turn toward Ruri, "Please don't misunderstand. It's okay."

Lucine lowered her eyebrows, "How is it okay? He's using Fusion. You know what that method did to our home." Ruri frowned and turned her eyes away, telling everyone that she remembers clearly what happened to her home.

"I'm aware of that," said Ruri before she had a look of reassurance on her face. "But, I don't think you need to worry. Yuya's Fusion isn't like Academia's." She turned back to Yuya with a distant look on her face, "It is more...calm I should say." Lucine narrowed her eyes in skepticism but turning back to the duel and not saying anything.

Yuto narrowed his eyes, "Although…" He felt that Yuya's Fusion Summon was different than the way Academia does it, similar to Yuzu's in a way. It didn't feel like there was malice in this one which confused him even more.

"Fusion Summoning is a part of dueling which I show you right now!" said Yuya before he showed a card in his hand. "When I control an "Entermate" monster, I can Special Summon Entermate Support Swan (ATK: 2100, DEF: 1500, LV: 5) from my hand in Defense Position!" A white swan wearing a straw hat and had a peace symbol painted on the back her wings appeared next to Natural Mage.

Yuya pointed at Yuto, "Battle! I attack Worn Axe with Natural Mage!" Mage spun her staff with a warm smile before she gathered wind and leaves near her surroundings. She pointed her staff and launched a wind blast with leaves towards Worn Axe.

Yuto narrowed his eyes, "I activate the effect of Phantom Knights Corrode Scales from my Graveyard. By banishing this card, I can prevent a DARK Xyz Monster from being destroyed." A trap card was banished as Worn Axe accepted the blast but wasn't destroyed as the wind ended.

YUTO LP: 4000→3800

"Nice. But I am prepared for that," said Yuya as he then held a hand toward his other monster. "I activate Entermate Support Swan's monster effect! During the Battle Phase, in exchange for this card being unable to attack, I can target another "Entermate" monster on my field and it can attack twice this turn!" Support Swan began singing a song which made Natural Mage glow blue temporarily as she felt energized.

"Attack once again, Natural Mage! Take out Worn Axe!" Natural Mage gathered up wind energy and unleashed it at Worn Axe again, this time destroying the monster even though Yuto didn't flinch from the damage.

YUTO LP: 3800→3600

Yuto paused for a moment before speaking, "Since Worn Axe was destroyed while Xyz Summoned, I can Special Summon a "Phantom Knights" monster from my Deck with its effects negated. Appear, Phantom Knights Slash Visor (ATK: 1400, DEF: 1800, LV: 4)!" A knight that was possessing an iron, blue helmet with a one-ended pointed visor, that also appeared to be cut as there were slash marks on the design, appeared on the field as it was just the helmet and only ghostly blue arms attached to it.

Yuya felt Yuto's stare on him as it seemed like he was observing him, trying to figure him out. Yuya narrowed his eyes, "Feels like he wants to say something." He did wonder what Yuto has to say or at least why he hasn't said anything yet. Well, whatever he wants to say, he's not going to pressure him until he's ready.

Yuya grabbed two cards and placed them in his duel disk, "I set two cards and end my turn." He then held out his hand, "But not before Natural Mage's effect activates! During the End Phase, I gain 500 LP for each "Entermate" I control." There were two on the field as Natural Mage showered Yuya with warm spring flowers, making Yuya grow a smile on his face.

YUYA LP: 3600→4600

"My turn. Draw!" Yuto drew a card before he picked up another one, "I Normal Summon Phantom Knights Enchanted Scepter (ATK: 1600, DEF: 1000, LV: 4)!" Summoned from a dark portal, a possessed brown scepter along with a heavy armor plate appeared on the field.

Yuto held out his hand, "I activate Enchanted Scepter's monster effect! Twice per turn, I can increase or decrease the Level of a "Phantom Knights" by 1. I use the effect two times to raise both of my monsters' Levels!" Enchanted raised its scepter before it and Visor glowed purple as their levels were increased.

Phantom Knights Slash Visor (LV: 4→5)
Phantom Knights Enchanted Scepter (LV: 4→5)

"I overlay my Level 5 Slash Visor and Enchanted Scepter!" Both monsters morphed into dark energy that went into a portal. "The collective anger of knights' prides! Form together into a destructive vengeance! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 5! Phantom Knights Burst Cannon (ATK: 2600, DEF: 1700, RNK: 5, OVU: 2)!" A knight that possessed dark blue armor frame, complete with a helmet, leg armor, vambraces and black boots. A very interesting feature was that instead of gauntlets, its arms were replaced by miniature cannons with one attached to each arm. The cannons appeared to be ready to launch at any random moment. The knight was also wearing a dark red tunic that covered most of the chest area and upper body.

Yuya looked at the monster that was summoned and was impressed, "Awesome. With how easy you can Xyz Summon, it makes me wonder how many other people can do that in your dimension."

"It is too early to be impressed," said Yuto before he held out his hand. "I activate Burst Cannon's monster effect! By using an Overlay Unit, I can target a monster my opponent controls and destroy it. Then, you take damage equal to that monster's original ATK." Yuya's eyes widened in surprise as one of Burst Cannon's Overlay Units vanished.

Phantom Knights Burst Cannon (OVU: 2→1)

It aimed one of its cannon arms at Natural Mage. It was charging for a few seconds before blasting a dark sphere of energy that hit and destroyed Natural Mage. Yuya gritted his teeth and protect himself from the blast using his arms.

YUYA LP: 4600→2200

"Yuya!" shouted Yuzu in concern.

Yuya smirked as he then pressed a button, "Not bad. But I activate the Trap Card: Shock Draw! For every 1000 points of damage I just took, I can draw a card." He took 2400 damage so Yuya was able to draw two cards as a result.

Yuto held out his hand, "Battle! I attack Support Swan with Burst Cannon! Inferno Bomb!" Burst Cannon then aimed his arm and blasted Support Swan with a larger cannonball that was covered in flames. Swan was then destroyed as a result while the explosion created a huge crater in the pavement.

"I activate the Trap Card: Entermate Revival!" said Yuya as he retaliated. "Since a monster I controlled was destroyed, I can summon an "Entermate" from my hand or Graveyard! Return to the field, Natural Mage (ATK: 2400)!" A portal opened up and Mage's staff appeared while spinning before she grabbed it and landed on the field next to Yuya.

Yuto paused for a moment before he spoke, "I end my turn." He gazed at Yuya with a neutral expression on his face, still not saying anything to him.

Yuya felt Yuto staring at him again and felt a little awkward. He then sighed a little and rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly, "It seems like you want to say something." He figured maybe Yuto isn't one for talking during a duel though that's just a guess as he doesn't know much else about him. Otherwise, it was real awkward in his opinion for Yuto to keep staring at him without any reason.

Yuto, while caught a little off guard by the statement, closed his eyes, "Forgive me. I was...merely trying to figure you out."

Yuya raised an eyebrow, "Figure me out?"

Yuto nodded, "Yes. I am trying to understand what kind of person you are. And what kind of duelist you are as well." He has been very quiet as he was observing Yuya and trying to figure out the type of guy he is. He wanted to be sure as he was very cautious after seeing Yuya's sincerity about helping him.

However, Yuya closed his eyes and smiled like he was satisfied, "I was right. You are testing me." Yuto then nodded his head which confirmed that is correct.

"What do you mean?" wondered Yuzu. Rin had the same expression Yuzu had as she wondered the same thing.

Ruri, however, looked like she was beginning to understand why Yuto challenged Yuya, "So that's what it is."

Lucine had her arms crossed together with a neutral expression on her face, "That's right. He's trying to decide if you three are up to the task." She was referring to Yuya, Yuzu and Rin when she said that.

Lucine turned her head towards the other girls and saw that Yuzu and Rin were still confused. They wondered what exactly this accomplishes. Lucine sighed a little before she had a calm expression on her face, "Look, we appreciate that you want to help us but we're not sure if you'll be prepared for what's coming. We don't know your skill level. So, Yuto is dueling Yuya to see if you three have the resolve and skill to take on Academia." Even though they are willing to help them, Yuto and Lucine are reluctant to allow them because of the risks involved. So, Yuto decided to test Yuya in order to see if he can prove that he and the other girls can hold their own against Academia.

"Ohhhh, so that's the reason," said Rin as she understood the reasoning behind it now.

Yuzu was then curious as she looked at Lucine, "So, do you think we're up to the task?"

Lucine moved her eyes as she looked at both Yuzu and Rin from top to bottom. She then turned back to the duel, "...Maybe. But testing your skills isn't the only reason Yuto is doing this." Yuzu and Rin wondered what Lucine meant as they didn't know what other reason there could possibly be.

Ruri held a hand to her heart as she had a small frown on her face, "Yuya...Yuto…"

Yuya looked at Yuto in curiosity, "And? How am I doing so far?" Yuto didn't respond as he closed his eyes in silence.

Seeing as how Yuto hasn't made up his mind, Yuya raised a fist in resolve, "Well, I'll show you more of what I'm capable of." He placed his fingers on his deck, "My turn, draw!" He looked at the card he drew and smiled.

"I Normal Summon Gifting Magician (ATK: 0, DEF: 0, LV: 1)!" Yuya summoned the card he drew which was a male magician in a white robe with golden streams around the edges of the design. He was wearing a gray suit underneath along with brown boots and gloves.

"I activate Gifting Magician's monster effect," shouted Yuya as he held up the monster card. "By releasing this card, I get to draw a card. And if it happens to be a Pendulum Monster, I can reveal it to draw again." Gifting Magician destroyed itself before Yuya drew a card to look at it and revealed Dragonpulse Magician, "Must be my lucky day, it's a Pendulum Monster which means I draw once more." He then drew another card from his deck.

Yuto narrowed his eyes when he heard what Yuya said, "Pendulum Monsters…" Even though he saw Yuzu do it before, he doesn't know much about them but he'll be ready for them.

Yuya picked up a card and showed it, "I activate the Magic Card: Pendulum Call! By discarding a card from my hand, I can add 2 "Magician" Pendulum Monsters with different names from my Deck to my hand." He discarded Dragonpulse and added 2 Magicians to his hand.

He held up the two cards he added to his hand, "With the Scale 0 Treasurer Magician and Scale 8 Timegazer Magician, I set the Pendulum Scale!" He placed them in his Pendulum Zone as the two pillars of light appeared. Timegazer appeared in the second pillar.

In the first pillar, there was a spiky, black-haired magician with blue eyes wearing horn-rimmed glasses. He was wearing a brown coat with a black suit underneath, a dark red tie, and a white collar around the neck area. In his right hand, he had a book with magical writing in its pages and a symbol that looked like Yuya's pendant on the cover.

Lucine looked on in wonder as she has seen Yuzu do this before. The other girls, while they have all seen it a lot of times before, still thought it looked nice. Rin looked on in curiosity, "I've never seen a Scale 0 before." Neither have the others as this would mean you can Pendulum Summon Level 1 monsters with it.

"With this, I can summon monsters with Levels 1 to 7 simultaneously!" The giant pendulum was swinging as Yuya chanted, "Swing, my soul's Pendulum! Draw an arc of light across the ether! Pendulum Summon! Come forth, my monsters!" Yuya raised his hand into the sky as three lights appeared from the portal and morphed into monsters. "Appear from my hand, Power Magician (ATK: 1000, DEF: 1000, LV: 3, PS: 2) and Odd-Eyes Magician (ATK: 2300, DEF: 1500, LV: 6, PS: 8)! And from the Extra Deck, Entermate Momoncarpet (ATK: 1000)!" Both magicians and the feline carpet appeared on the field.

Yuto watched with wonder in his eyes, "Pendulum Summon...I don't know much about it but it is a wonder to witness it."

Yuya smirked as he held out his hand, "Well, I'm glad you're amazed by it but here's something else! I activate Treasurer Magician's Pendulum Effect!" Treasurer opened his book as he was flipping through the pages. "Since I successfully Pendulum Summoned, if I have another "Magician" in my Pendulum Zone, I can draw cards equal to the number of monsters I Pendulum Summoned!" Three monsters were Pendulum Summoned as Odd-Eyes, Power Magician, and Momoncarpet glowed temporarily so Yuya drew three cards from his deck. He then turned to Odd-Eyes, "Then, Odd-Eyes Magician's effect activates! Once per turn, when a card effect is activated in my Pendulum Zone, I can draw a card." Odd-Eyes turned to Yuya and nodded as Yuya smiled back while drawing another card, making him draw four cards in total.

"So, in addition to having extra effects in these Pendulum Zones, you were able to draw new cards to replenish your hand," said Yuto as he nodded his head in praise. "A nice move."

"It is interesting to see Pendulum Monsters having different effects depending on where they are on the field," commented Lucine. She turned to Ruri with a look of intrigue on her face, "Ruri, what do you make of Pendulum Monsters?"

Ruri, caught a little off guard by the question, pondered it for a second before she spoke, "I think they are pretty cool. They do provide a lot of benefits when using them. Yuya knows how to handle them the most I believe." Lucine lowered her eyes before she turned back to the duel, pondering what she heard.

Yuya held out his hand, "Now, I activate Power Magician's monster effect! When this card is Special Summoned, I can target a Level 4 or lower "Magician" monster in my Graveyard or face-up in my Extra Deck with its effect negated. Revive from the Graveyard in Defense Position, Dragonpulse Magician (ATK: 1800, DEF: 900, LV: 4, PS: 1)!" Power Magician aimed his staff at the ground which caused a black hole to appear and made Dragonpulse appear from it.

"Furthermore, Odd-Eyes Magician's effect allows all Pendulum Monsters to gain 500 ATK while they're face-up on the field," said Yuya as Odd-Eyes raised his staff and enveloped all of Yuya's Pendulum Monsters in a fiery blue aura.

Power Magician (ATK: 1000→1500)
Odd-Eyes Magician (ATK: 2300→2800)
Entermate Momoncarpet (ATK: 1000→1500)
Dragonpulse Magician (ATK: 1800→2300)

Yuto looked on with curiosity showing in his eyes, "While it is a nice showing of combos, are you planning on Xyz or Fusion Summoning again or just adding more to your arsenal?" He was mainly curious as to what Yuya was going to do with some of those monsters. Yuya did managed to summon multiple monsters at once to attack with but just having multiple monsters doesn't guarantee victory against your enemy.

Yuya simply smirked a little, "I've got plenty in my arsenal that I haven't shown yet but you should know that Power Magician is a Tuner monster!" He pointed at his magician as he said that last part.

Yuto was surprised by what he heard, "What?" Lucine had the same expression Yuto was showing, both thinking the same thing. If Yuya had a Tuner, that means he can Synchro Summon.

Yuya held out his hand, "I tune my Level 3 Power Magician with the Level 4 Dragonpulse Magician (3 + 4 = 7)!" Both Dragonpulse and Power flew into the air before Power Magician turned into three green energy rings that surrounded Dragonpulse. Dragonpulse's body disappeared as the four stars it left behind gathered inside the force of the rings.

"The souls of the spiritual realm vibrate within the earth! O magical being, engrave yourself into the auras among the living! Synchro Summon! Appear, Level 7! Resonance Magician (ATK: 2200, DEF: 2700, LV: 7)!" From blue cracks visible in the air around the field, a female magician emerged as a wormhole bursted through the cracks. She wore a silver trilby hat and red headband that was tied in a way that covered part of her short, brown hair and left eye, hiding a scar as both eyes were hazel-green. There was a golden, metal strap shaped like a belt with gears tied around from her waist to the top of her opposite shoulder. She wore violet clothing with a black robe, boots, and brown belt underneath. In her right hand, she was wielding a golden short staff with the end of it was shaped like a circle with spiked points connecting and a hole in the middle. Also, in her left hand, she had a golden bo staff that extended all the way to her height. The magician had a look of confidence on her face as she stared at Yuto.

Yuto stared at Yuya for a few seconds in surprise before he spoke, "Xyz...Fusion...and now Synchro. You know all of the summoning methods." It was the first time he's met a duelist that has learned all of the Extra Deck summoning methods. Now that he's seeing this, Yuto couldn't help but look at Yuya in a more respectful light than he did before.

Lucine couldn't hide the shock in her voice either, "Unbelievable...He did all of those methods in a single duel…"

Yuzu smiled a little from seeing Lucine's shock before she admired the same things she was seeing. It amazed her that Yuya already knows how to perform all of the summoning methods and part of her was a little jealous at the same time. She swears she'll catch up to him eventually.

Yuya, while chuckling a little on the inside from seeing Yuto's shock, felt he already spoke about this and pointed at his monster, "I activate Resonance Magician's monster effect! When this card is Synchro Summoned using a "Magician" monster as Synchro Material, I can target a monster you control and banish it! Spacial Oscillation!" Resonance aimed her short staff at Burst Cannon, Yuto's only monster, and released a small ball of electricity from it. Burst Cannon was hit by the electricity before suddenly a black hole appeared in the middle of its body and engulfed the armored monster entirely, making it disappear from the field.

Yuto, as soon as he got over his shock, narrowed his eyes as he understood, "So that's why you Synchro Summoned. You weren't just blindly summoning multiple monsters without a purpose." If Yuya had simply battled and destroyed Cannon, he could use its other effect but he did something he didn't expect.

Yuya smiled, "I always plan out my moves but I also believe in my cards. As long as I believe in my deck, they will answer me back." Yuto narrowed his eyes even more but it was almost like his eyes had a look on understanding in them.

"It is not over yet! Resonance Magician gains 200 ATK for every "Magician" Pendulum Monster that's face-up in my Extra Deck," said Yuya as he gestured toward his duel disk. "Since I have two in my Extra Deck, Resonance gains 400 ATK." It seemed as though the spirits of both Power and Dragonpulse resonated with Resonance as her wand trembled and she felt the power flowing through it.

Resonance Magician (ATK: 2200→2600)

"Battle! Resonance attack Yuto directly!" Resonance clanged both weapons together before she flew straight towards Yuto who kept a straight face. "At this moment, the effect of Power Magician is in play! When it is used as Synchro Material, the monster summoned gains 1000 ATK during the Battle Phase only!" A fiery aura surrounded Resonance as she gained more power while still charging at Yuto.

Resonance Magician (ATK: 2600→3600)

Yuzu had a look of surprise on her face, "Yuto has 3600 LP. If this attack succeeds, Yuya wins!"

"Nice! Go for it, Yuya!" cheered Rin as she had a fist raised. She personally wants Yuya to win as he is her friend but she wouldn't hate Yuto winning either. She's just going with her heart at the moment.

"No. Yuto wouldn't fall this early to something like this," said Lucine as she had her arms crossed together. She said that in a tone that didn't seemed to be concerned, knowing that Yuto is going to be fine. Ruri just had a worried frown on her face but felt the same thing.

Then, Yuto calmly pressed a button on his duel disk, "I activate the Trap Card: Phantom Gate! When my opponent attacks me directly, the attack is negated and I draw a card." Resonance was pushed back by transparent black gates blocking her way as her attack was stopped before Yuto drew a card.

Yuya held his hand toward Yuto, "But I still have plenty of monsters to attack with. Odd-Eyes Magician attack him directly! Spiral Magic!" Odd-Eyes nodded his head with a smile, "As you wish, Master Yuya!" He spun his scepter around before charging it up.

"At this moment, Timegazer Magician's Pendulum Effect activates! When a Pendulum Monster battles, you aren't allowed to activate Trap Cards until the end of the Damage Step! Inverse Gearwidth!" Timegazer activated a gear-like mechanism in his gauntlets that extended around his body as a clock appeared to be stopping time itself.

Yuya is aware that Yuto can activate Trap effects in his Graveyard so this should prevent him from using them for now. After he said that, Odd-Eyes launched a rainbow magic blast toward Yuto.

Yuto, knowing what Yuya is up to, then smiled a little for once as he held up a monster card, "It was a smart move to seal my Graveyard but Phantom Knights aren't limited to just that. When I'm attacked directly, I can Special Summon Phantom Knights Fractured Knuckles (ATK: 700, DEF: 1300, LV: 2) from my hand!" Yuto summoned a knight that was possessing an armor frame with arm guards and knuckles attached to them, appearing to be a little fractured as pieces were missing.

"And due to Fractured Knuckles' effect, it cannot be destroyed by battle once per turn." Knuckles floated in front of Yuto and absorbed the blast with its body, protecting Yuto from taking damage and Knuckles wasn't destroyed from the attack.

Yuya frowned a little before he smirked again, "Then, I'll have Momoncarpet attack Fractured Knuckles!" As Timegazer activated his mechanism again, Momoncarpet flew in and headbutted Knuckles before the knight was destroyed.

"Natural Mage attack him directly!" Natural Mage unleashed a wind storm of leaves toward Yuto.

"Timegazer's effect only works with Pendulum Monsters," said Yuto before he held out a hand. "Therefore, I activate the effect of Phantom Knights Dark Gauntlet in my Graveyard. While I control no cards and I'm attacked directly, I can Special Summon this card as an Effect Monster with the effect of it gaining 300 DEF for every "Phantom" Magic and Trap Card in my Graveyard." In a black haze, a monster emerged before Yuto, blocking Natural's storm. Like all other Phantom Knights, it had no actual body and instead a black aura surrounding intimidating black gauntlets with a metal helm that had possessive dark eyes, glaring at Yuya in defiance.

Phantom Knights Dark Gauntlet (ATK: 300, DEF: 600→1500, LV: 4)

"Well then, Natural, destroy Dark Gauntlet!" Natural created another storm that connected and corroded Gauntlet's armor, destroying the monster as it vanished.

Yuya held a hand to the side, "Now, I activate Natural Mage's effect! When she destroys a monster by battle, I can Special Summon an "Entermate" from my hand or Graveyard!" Natural Mage drew a magic circle on the floor, creating a portal in which Support Swan (DEF: 1500) emerged from.

Since it was now the end of the Battle Phase, the effect of Power Magician ends as well.

Resonance Magician (ATK: 3600→2600)

Yuya placed a card in his duel disk, "I set a card and end my turn." Since it was the End Phase, Natural raised her staff, with her and the other two Entermates glowing temporarily, and showered Yuya with warm spring flowers again.

YUYA LP: 2200→3700

Yuya sighed a little before he smiled, "Well, that didn't go how I expected. You're really something, Yuto." At the very least, he figures that Yuto would have less resources to work with now that some of them are banished. He is impressed by the sheer number of cards he can use in his Graveyard and it is an interesting strategy nonetheless.

Yuto stared at Yuya for a second before he nodded, "Likewise. You are impressive as well, Yuya. From my perspective, it seems you have the drive and resolve similar to us Resistance members." For some reason, he then narrowed his eyes in a serious manner, "But will that be enough for you?"

Yuya narrowed his eyes, "What?" He wondered what exactly that was supposed to mean as the other girls, save for Lucine, looked on in confusion.

---

UNKNOWN

Mikleo kept a straight face as he looked at the shining woman in front of him, "You're the woman from my dreams before." They were still inside this odd space area with portals and wormholes in the background.

The woman nodded as it appeared she had a relieved smile on her face, "Yes. I'm glad I was able to bring you here."

Mikleo narrowed his eyes before he looked left and right as to observe where they were. He then looked at the bracelet in his hand before he closed his eyes as if to ponder something.

Although it was hard to see her face since her silhouette was still blurry, her expression appeared confused as she tilted her head, "What's wrong?"

Mikleo didn't say anything for a few seconds before he soon smirked and let out a slight chuckle, "So that's what it is." He turned back toward the woman in front of him, "Considering the bracelet shined just then, it didn't do that out of random chance. You must have brought me here to this...space, inside the bracelet."

The woman gasped in shock before, after a few seconds, suddenly smiled like she was almost satisfied, "...How'd you know?"

Mikleo held up the bracelet he was holding, "Considering that these things can teleport people, I figured there had to be more that meets the eye. Plus..." He narrowed his eyes at this next part, "I detected a small gravitational pulse coming from inside the bracelet." Even though it was faint and the scanner did say that there was nothing unusual about it, while searching part by part, Mikleo noticed a spike of energy detected throughout the inside of the bracelet although he wasn't sure what it was at first. However, seeing all of this and hearing this woman acknowledging it, it confirmed a theory he had when he arrived here. While he wouldn't call it a whole world, there appears to be some sort of area inside the bracelet.

The woman stared at him for a few seconds before she sighed with a smile, "It is so much of a relief to see you haven't changed, Mikleo. You're still as smart and intuitive as ever." She said that in a warm tone as it seemed she was relieved about Mikleo's behavior.

He crossed his arms together as he looked at her with narrowed eyes, "You keep saying this stuff like I'm supposed to know you. Have we met before?" This part has been kinda bugging him ever since he last spoke to her and he's a little curious if he's met her before or not. He's pretty sure he would remember a glowing woman although he wagers that's probably not her true appearance. He just can't see what she looks like for some reason.

She lowered her head and frowned as she shifted a little awkwardly with her feet, "...We have met before. We were even friends once. You just don't remember at all. You probably lost your memory." She's not saying anything else cause she feels like he wouldn't be ready yet with all of the information not said.

Mikleo felt a little skeptical as he narrowed his eyes even more, seeing the hesitation this woman this displaying despite not seeing her face. However, he paused for a second before his eyes softened and he shrugged his shoulders, "Alright. Fair enough." She raised her head in surprise before he continued, "If what you're saying is true, I'm sure it will come back to me. Not a big deal." He said that in a nonchalant manner as he figured it isn't a big deal for now.

She blinked her eyes for a few seconds before she started giggling while holding a hand to her mouth, "I see your tact is still unpredictable as ever too."

Mikleo smirked, "I'll take that as a compliment." Both of them then laughed a little as they found this funny. The woman felt it was nice talking to Mikleo like this again while Mikleo felt a little happy talking to her for some reason.

Mikleo then gave a serious expression, "So, what's this about? Why have you brought me here?"

She paused for a moment before she floated a little so that she was in the air by a few feet. She motioned her hand towards him, "Come with me." She then flew in a different direction towards something. Mikleo raised an eyebrow before he shrugged his shoulders and followed her behind.

Soon after, they both stopped as the scenery around them changed so that it actually looked like outer space. Mikleo noticed the Earth nearby them except there was a huge difference: there were four planets that looked exactly the same as Earth. One was glowing green, another was glowing dark purple, third was light purple, and the last was glowing blue.

"This is…" said Mikleo as he looked at the planets in curiosity, wondering what they mean.

"That's right. These are the Four Dimensions." said the woman as she floated down and landed next to Mikleo.

Mikleo turned his head toward her with his eyes narrowed, "You know about them?"

She nodded her head, "I do. I'm also aware that you're going to fight against Academia with your brother and the girls." Mikleo narrowed his eyes even more before the woman floated again so that she was a few feet in front of him. She held her hands behind her back as she wasn't facing him, "Fusion...Synchro...Xyz...Standard. These dimensions were all originally one."

"All originally one?" asked Mikleo with skepticism in his voice.

She turned to face Mikleo as she nodded, "That's right. Once, it was a single dimension. Now, it has split into four different dimensions."

Mikleo was wondering about something, "Does this have something to do with that crap about 'uniting the dimensions'?" He wondered if Academia knew about this as it seemed a little convenient. Mikleo had his hands in his coat pockets as he asked, "Is that so? Then, why did they split?"

The woman paused a moment as she seemed a little hesitant to answer that question. She frowned as she didn't know where to start. She eventually sighed before she held out a hand, "It all began one day where a man named Z…."

At first, Mikleo was listening very closely as it seemed that the girl in front of him would answer something really important. However, as she got to a certain word, Mikleo couldn't hear her anymore as there was a loud ringing in his ears. Mikleo grunted as he held his head in irritation, annoyed at the loud ringing he was hearing.

The girl stopped talking as she soon noticed Mikleo holding his head in pain. She moved closer to him as she looked worried, "Mikleo, are you okay?!" What was wrong with him?

Mikleo grunted a little, "I'm fine. Just loud ringing in my ears." Soon after, the ringing stopped which made him move his head as he was feeling better. He turned back to the girl, "What were you saying?"

The girl still looked concerned before she continued, "...As I've said, it started when…"

Mikleo heard ringing in his ears again as he couldn't hear the girl speaking. He grunted as he held his head again. The ringing was getting on his nerves.

The woman looked at Mikleo with a concerned expression, "Mikleo!" She placed her hands on his shoulders as he was trying to recover from the noise. She was very confused. Why is Mikleo having trouble hearing her?

Mikleo grunted again as he opened his eyes, "The hell? What's with this ringing?" He doesn't know where it was coming from but it was preventing him from hearing what she was saying and it's annoying.

The woman narrowed her eyes as she watched Mikleo calming down, "Is there something blocking him from hearing certain things?" Whatever this ringing is, it happened just as soon as she was getting ready to talk about someone which raises her suspicions. She held a hand to her chin, "I might have to look into this later. Maybe I should be careful with what I say to him."

Mikleo sighed a little as he rubbed his forehead, "Damn it. That was annoying." As he was feeling better again, he motioned his hand towards the girl, "Continue."

The woman narrowed her eyes before she pondered what to say now. After a few seconds, she floated in the air as she decided to say something different, "It has to do with your brother, Yuya."

Mikleo, once he regained his composure, looked at the woman with his eyes narrowed, "My brother? What does he have to do with this?" From what she is implying, in his opinion, it sounded like Yuya is responsible for the dimensions splitting.

She had her hands behind her back as she faced Mikleo, "Well, it's not just Yuya. You are aware of the other boys that have similar faces like Yuto."

Mikleo narrowed his eyes as he is aware of the other boys that have the same face as Yuya: Yuto, Yugo and whoever the duelist from the Fusion Dimension is. Although he wonders what the connection they have with each other as Mikleo noticed the woman looking at him in a certain way: the kind that implies she figures he should notice something suspicious.

It took Mikleo a second for him to connect the dots before he noticed something. Although his face doesn't show it, he realized something as he held up the bracelet, "So, this thing was intended on activating whenever two of those boys come close to each other." The woman nodded in acknowledgement as she then had a smile of gratitude on her face.

Mikleo crossed his arms together as he looked at her with narrowed eyes, "So, is that a bad thing? Because you don't seem to be concerned much, are you?" With all of the trouble gone through because of these bracelets, it seemed like having Yuya with someone like Yuto was a bad thing for some reason especially with how this woman is implying it. However, seeing the look of her face (or mouth so to speak) tells him that she doesn't looked worried much which confuses him.

The woman frowned as she turned her head to the side and not looking at Mikleo, "...It is a bad scenario. For good reason." However, she then smiled a little as she turned back to Mikleo, "But it is going to be fine. The others are with your brother. So, I'm not worried." Mikleo raised an eyebrow as he wondered what that meant while the expression she was giving was a look of reassurance for a reason he can't figure out yet.

---

MAIAMI CITY - HARBOR

YUYA LP: 3700; Yuya's hand: 4
YUTO LP: 3600; Yuto's hand: 2

On Yuya's field, there was Odd-Eyes Magician, Resonance Magician, Entermate Natural Mage, Support Swan and Momoncarpet all on the field along with a set card. Yuto had nothing on his side of the field.

As the girls looked on in confusion, Yuya narrowed his eyes at Yuto, "What do you mean by that?" He was confused by what Yuto said. Even though it sounded like Yuto's acknowledges his skill and resolve, there was something else that wasn't enough for some reason.

Yuto closed his eyes as he calmly spoke, "You are certainly strong enough to take on Academia just like the Resistance." He then opened his eyes, "But will you be mentally prepared for it?" He said that in a serious tone which confused Yuya as he wasn't sure what he was implying.

"What you said about what dueling should be…" said Yuto as he placed a hand on his chest. "It resonated with me. In fact, I feel the exact same way when it comes to dueling. But that may not matter in the long run." He frowned as he looked down at the ground, "Even though I wanted the same thing, fighting against Academia has forced me to duel with steeled resolve and hardships."

Yuto then raised his head back up with a look of certainty on his face, "Regardless of what you want out of dueling, Academia isn't going to care about having fun or connections. As we've said many times, this is war. We've had to watch dueling being used for destruction and pain on our homeland. This is the reality we had to face." Like Yuya, he and his friends dueled with having fun and connections while being happy with them. It was very peaceful especially for Heartland. However, they can't do that anymore with the way Academia fights against as they use any method necessary to win. Until they win this war, they won't be able to duel with hope in their hearts again.

Yuto held out a hand toward Yuya, "So I ask you, if you fought against many Academia soldiers who don't share similar opinions as us, can you accept the fact that you might have to duel to just survive and not duel for excitement or happiness?" Even though he shares the same values Yuya has, Yuto is worried that Yuya, Yuzu, and Rin might not fully understand the reality they have to face if they are going to help them fight against Academia. He wants to be sure if Yuya wants to fully take a risk such as that. That is the other reason as to why he needed to challenge Yuya: to see if he can handle a duel to just survive.

Yuya was about to retort before he stopped himself and turned his eyes away while frowning. He didn't know what to say to that as he couldn't find a counter argument although he admits that what Yuto said wasn't false.

Yuzu, as she watched Yuya having hesitation on his face, frowned in worry, "Yuya…"

"That's right." Ruri, Rin and Yuzu turned to see Lucine with a look of certainty on her face. She turned to them with a frown on her face, "Even though you are possibly strong enough to fight alongside us, are you able to risk facing the pain and consequences we had to go through?"

Rin turned her eyes away in doubt as she didn't respond, not knowing what to say to that although part of her wanted to retort that has suffered somewhat during her childhood but it probably doesn't come close to what they've been through. Yuzu frowned in sadness as she looked down at the ground in deep thought, acknowledging that they have a point.

Ruri saw the looks Yuzu and Rin had and frowned in concern, "Everyone..." It would be a hard reality to face as they haven't experienced actual war.

Although Yuya wasn't sure how to respond, he still felt strongly about wanting to help them as he turned back to facing Yuto with resolve in his eyes, even if he is feeling a little bit of doubt.

Yuto saw the mixed expression in Yuya's eyes and closed his eyes, "Maybe it is not the right time to answer that but I do want you to keep that in mind." He then felt resolve as he opened his eyes, "Now, I believe it is my turn. Let us continue the duel." He decided to give Yuya time to see if he can stand up to the risks as he felt the need to continue this test.

"I draw!" Yuto drew a card before he held out his hand, "I activate the effect of Phantom Knights Fractured Knuckles in my Graveyard. By banishing this card, I can add a "Phantom Knights" from my Deck to the hand during the End Phase." Fractured Knuckles was banished as a result of its effect.

"I activate the Magic Card: Phantom Knights Cursed Treasures. I shuffle 5 banished "Phantom" cards back into the Deck which allows me to draw two cards." His five banished cards were shuffled into the deck before Yuto drew two cards.

Yuto held up a card from his hand, "I Normal Summon Phantom Knights Torn Mail (ATK: 1500, DEF: 1300, LV: 4)!" Yuto summoned a hooded monster that wore brown chainmail armor that was torn. It had no legs but had ghastly hands and a face.

"When Torn Mail is successfully Normal Summoned, I'm allowed to summon a Level 4 or lower "Phantom Knights" monster from my hand or GY. Return to the field, Phantom Knights Slash Visor (ATK: 1400)!" Slashes were cutting the air before Slash Visor appeared back on the field from a dark portal in the ground.

"As you have shown me much of your strength, I will answer back with my strength!" yelled Yuto before he held out his hand. "I use the Level 4 Torn Mail and Slash Visor to construct the Overlay Network!" Both monsters turned into dark energy that went into a portal.

Yuya narrowed his eyes, "A Rank 4 monster. "

Yuzu looked on in uneasiness, "Those monsters...It's coming." She knew what monster he was about to bring out since it was a Rank 4 which made her a little concerned for Yuya. Rin looked on in curiosity as she didn't know what monster it was while Ruri and Lucine knew what Yuto was bringing out.

"Formed from the pitch-black darkness, to fight those foolish enough to oppose its treacherous fangs! Descend, now! Xyz Summon! Rank 4! Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon (ATK: 2500, DEF: 2000, RNK: 4, OVU: 2)!" The armored, purple colored dragon with claws on its chin, hands, and wings appeared on Yuto's field as it roared.

Yuya looked at the dragon in wonder, "Dark Rebellion...Xyz Dragon…?" He then noticed something odd about that dragon as his eyes widened, "Wait, that dragon…!" A flashback appeared in his head as he remembered that dream he had about the different colored dragons: one of them being gray which looks exactly like Dark Rebellion.

Rin looked at the dragon, "What is that monster…?" For some reason, she is getting this odd feeling in her chest like she had when she first saw Yuya's Odd-Eyes as it reminded her of Yugo's Clear Wing.

As it stopped roaring, Dark Rebellion lowered its head and turned its gaze at Yuya. Yuya could feel the gaze from that dragon and wasn't sure why it was staring at him. Dark Rebellion had its eyes narrowed as it watched Yuya with interest.

"Now, the real fight begins. You'll experience some of the hardships we've endured on the battlefield!" Yuto yelled out before he held out his hand towards his dragon. "Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon's effect activates!" Dark Rebellion absorbed one of his overlay units as he continued. "By using an Overlay Unit, it can lower the ATK of one of my opponent's monsters by half while increasing Dark Rebellion's ATK by that same amount until the end of the turn! Treason Discharge!" As Yuya's eyes widened in surprise, Dark Rebellion extended his wings before he used them to charge purple electricity and unleashed it onto Resonance Magician, binding and sapping her strength while powering up the dragon's strength.

Resonance Magician (ATK: 2600→1300)
Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon (OVU: 2→1) (ATK: 2500→3800)

Yuya looked at the dragon, "3800 ATK…" That's enough to destroy any one of his monsters.

"Go, Dark Rebellion! Eradicate his Resonance Magician!" Dark Rebellion flexed his wings and flew straight towards Resonance, who powered up a little thanks to Power Magician.

Resonance Magician (ATK: 1300→2300)

Yuya gritted his teeth a little before he retaliated, "Trap Card, open! Attack Invulnerability! During the Battle Phase, I can choose to activate one of two effects. I select the second one where I take no battle damage this Battle Phase!" A clear wall formed in front of Yuya before it disappeared slowly after.

"You may have survived this turn but your monsters won't. Revolt of Lightning Disobey!" Yuto yelled out as the horn under Dark Rebellion's chin glowed. The dragon lunged and stabbed through Resonance with its horn, destroying her.

"It is not over yet. Dark Rebellion gains an additional attack for every Overlay Unit it has. Dark Rebellion attack Entermate Natural Mage! Revolt of Lightning Disobey!" As soon as it was done with the first attack, Dark Rebellion flew and stabbed Natural Mage which destroyed her as well. Since Yuya's trap was still in effect, he didn't take any damage.

"I set two cards and end my turn. Since it is the End Phase, the effect of Fractured Knuckles allows me to add a "Phantom Knights" monster to my hand." Yuto placed two face-downs before he added a monster to his hand from his deck.

Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon (ATK: 3800→2500)

Yuto narrowed his eyes a little as he noticed something a little odd. Throughout this duel Yuya has been giving it his all with excitement in his eyes but in some cases the dueling he has displayed feels as though it is close to the iron resolve the Resistance members have trained to fight back. So while Yuya still has hope and passion in his dueling, he also duels like a warrior which puzzles Yuto a little. It is probably not his place to ask anything but he wondered how Yuya obtained something similar to a steeled resolve.

Meanwhile, Yuya noticed Yuto looking a little troubled which confused him a little before he shook it off, thinking it wasn't a big deal right now. Yuya placed his fingers on his deck, "It's my turn, draw!" He looked at what he drew which was Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon and smiled.

The giant pendulum was swinging as Yuya chanted, "Swing, my soul's Pendulum! Draw an arc of light across the ether! Pendulum Summon! Come forth, my monsters!" Yuya raised his hand into the sky as two lights emerged from the portal and morphed into monsters. "From my hand, Dragonpulse Magician (ATK: 1800) and Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 2500, DEF: 2000, LV: 7, PS: 4)!" Dragonpulse appeared alongside Odd-Eyes who let out a mighty roar as it was brought out.

However, Yuya grunted in shock as he felt a pressure and burning feeling in his heart. He then held a hand to it, "What...is this? What's wrong with my chest?" His body felt a little hot for some reason. Yuto held his chest while his expression didn't change, though he felt the same thing Yuya did and was confused by it.

The girls noticed something was up as both boys were holding their chests. Lucine narrowed her eyes, "Yuto? What's wrong?" Yuzu looked a little concerned, "Yuya?" They wondered what was wrong as both of them look exhausted with sweat dripping from their foreheads.

Yuto, while still feeling that pressure, released his hand and let out a deep breath, "It's nothing." Yuya nodded in agreement as he took a deep breath as well before letting go of his chest, wondering what this feeling is about.

Meanwhile, Odd-Eyes and Dark Rebellion gazed at each other. Odd-Eyes felt confused as he looked at the other dragon, "What the…?" For some reason, he's getting this odd feeling when looking at this dragon. It was making him feel cautious as he didn't know what to make of this dragon. Dark Rebellion looked at Odd-Eyes for a moment before he raised his head towards the sky and roared. Yuya and Yuto closed their eyes and groaned as they felt the pulsating feeling getting stronger. Both dragons' had their energies released with an aura surrounding them even though Odd-Eyes is just staring at Dark Rebellion in confusion.

Sensing something was amiss, Odd-Eyes Magician turned to Odd-Eyes Pendulum in a serious manner, "Odd-Eyes, what's wrong?" For some reason, he's feeling an eerie power from not just Dark Rebellion but Odd-Eyes also which concerns him.

Odd-Eyes started breathing heavily as he looked at the other dragon, "I...don't know." He doesn't know why but he feels drawn towards that other dragon as his own power started getting out of control. Whatever this feeling is, he doesn't like it one bit and feels like he needs to get rid of it soon.

Dark Rebellion soon stopped roaring and stared down at Odd-Eyes again as both dragons' auras calmed down while the feeling in Yuya and Yuto's chests started to diminish. They both calmed down too as they let go of their chests again but still felt a little sweaty from whatever that was.

While Yuya was confused by what this feeling is, he ignored it as he held out his hand, "...Treasurer Magician's Pendulum Effect activates in which I draw cards equal to the number of monsters I just Pendulum Summoned. Then, thanks to Odd-Eyes Magician, I draw another card." Yuya started to feel a little better as he drew two cards along with another one from his deck. Also, since Odd-Eyes Magician is still out, his effect is play as the Pendulum Monsters Yuya just summoned got stronger.

Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 2500→3000)
Dragonpulse Magician (ATK: 1800→2300)

"Now, I release Momoncarpet and Dragonpulse to Tribute Summon Sacredragon Magician (ATK: 2400→2900, DEF: 3000, LV: 8, PS: 7)!" Momoncarpet and Dragonpulse disappeared before Sacredragon emerged onto the field in their place.

Yuya felt an uneasiness when he looked at Dark Rebellion but brushed it off, trying to focus on the duel at hand. He had to take care of that dragon otherwise it was going to be trouble the longer this duel goes. He looked at his hand for a few seconds before he picked a card up and showed it, "From my hand, I activate the Magic Card: Magical Thunder! By discarding a Magic Card from my hand, I can target a card on the field and destroy it. So, say goodbye to Dark Rebellion!" He sent Draw Muscle to the Graveyard before lightning came down and was striking toward Dark Rebellion.

Yuto pressed a button before he held out his hand, "I activate the Trap Card: Phantom Wing! With this card, one face-up monster on my field gains 500 ATK also it cannot be destroyed by battle or card effects one time this turn!" Just as the lightning struck, Dark Rebellion's wings glowed as the dragon withstood the lightning before it stopped completely.

Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon (ATK: 2500→3000)

Yuya frowned a little as he failed to destroy Yuto's dragon. He then heard someone, "Master Yuya." He turned to see Odd-Eyes Magician who was looking cautiously at Dark Rebellion, "Proceed with caution. I sense something...ominous within that dragon." The magician felt something didn't feel normal with this dragon as he sensed hatred within that dragon's heart. Yuya narrowed his eyes before he looked at Dark Rebellion, wondering what that could mean. He felt the dragon's gaze on him again which set him a little uneasy.

"Odd-Eyes and Dark Rebellion both have the same amount of ATK. Is Yuya willing to attack at all this turn?" wondered Lucine as she looked on in interest with both dragons having 3000 ATK.

"If I know Yuya, he has something up his sleeve." said Ruri with an unwavering expression on her face.

Yuya held up a card, "I activate the Equip Magic: Power of the Guardians and equip it onto Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!" Odd-Eyes roared as a magical aura surrounded the dragon's body.

Yuya pointed at Dark Rebellion, "Battle! Odd-Eyes Pendulum attack Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon!" Odd-Eyes charged straight towards Dark Rebellion who flew towards Odd-Eyes in response.

The dragons both collided as they headbutted each other with one trying to push back the other. Odd-Eyes roared as he tried to push back, "W-Who are you?!" Dark Rebellion didn't say anything and just roared angrily instead as he also tried to push back, not listening to what Odd-Eyes said. Odd-Eyes scoffed, "Not much of a talker, are you? In any case, you're going down!" Odd-Eyes and Dark Rebellion jumped back and stood away from each other. Odd-Eyes jumped up and swung his tail towards Dark Rebellion who countered with his own. Odd-Eyes flew back and then launched his fiery red blast towards Dark Rebellion before the other dragon air dodged the attack. Dark Rebellion's horn glowed as it charged straight to Odd-Eyes who then swung his tail and blocked it. The collision of attacks forced both dragons to push away from each other by a few feet.

Meanwhile, the girls were watching intently as the dragons clashed with each other. As they were watching, they heard a noise right near them that sounded like a chime. They looked down and saw what was making that noise as Ruri and Rin held up their arms, showing where the bracelets were blinking and making that chime noise.

As Yuzu, Rin and Ruri were surprised by this, Lucine looked cautious and confused as she looked at the two bracelets, "What's wrong with your bracelets?" She has seen Ruri wear that thing since she first met her and it never did that before.

Rin blinked her eyes in confusion as she twisted and turned her arm around to view the bracelet, "I don't know."

Ruri narrowed her eyes and frowned as her gaze shifted toward both her bracelet and the duel, "Could it be...responding to those dragons?" That was just a thought that crossed her mind though she doesn't know why that would be the case. Yuzu, meanwhile, wondered if her bracelet might be doing the same thing right now.

Yuya held out his hand, "Power of the Guardian's effect activates! When an attack is declared involving the equipped monster, this card gains a Spell Counter. And for every Spell Counter, Odd-Eyes gains 500 ATK & DEF!" A spell counter was placed onto the face-up card as Odd-Eyes glowed a little, gaining more magical power.

Power of the Guardians (SC: 0→1)
Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 3000→3500)

"Go, Odd-Eyes! Spiral Strike Burst!" Odd-Eyes spun around and launched his fiery red blast again towards Dark Rebellion.

Yuto clicked his tongue before he retaliated, "I banish the second Corrode Scales in my Graveyard to prevent Dark Rebellion's destruction." As the other monster card was banished, Dark Rebellion took the blast although it was holding his own.

"But you still take the damage! Also, when Odd-Eyes battles a monster, the damage dealt to you is doubled! Reaction Force!" The blast got stronger as the force of it pushed Yuto back as he held up an arm to shield himself.

YUTO LP: 3600→2600

Yuya felt himself sweating for some reason after that attack. Yuya sighed a little in slight exhaustion, "My turn is done."

Yuto was breathing a little heavily in and out as he felt exhausted as well. Yuto placed his fingers on his deck, "It's my turn!" He looked at the card he drew before he raised his head back toward Yuya, "I activate the effect of Torn Mail in my Graveyard. By banishing this card, I'm allowed to Special Summon a "Phantom Knights" from my Deck but I am unable to activate its effects this turn." Torn Mail was banished before Yuto took a card out from his deck and showed it, "Appear, Phantom Knights Ragged Glove (ATK: 1000, DEF: 500, LV: 3)!" A hollow knight wearing chest armor and a helmet with just a blue flame flowing down the lower body appeared on Yuto's field. It wore dark green sleeves, blue metal guards on the shoulders and the back of its hands, black leather gloves and what appeared to be red flames flowing from the holes of both the armor and gloves.

"Since I control a "Phantom Knights" monster, I can Special Summon Phantom Knights Silent Boots (ATK: 200, DEF: 1200, LV: 3) from my hand." Yuto showed the monster before he summoned Silent Boots to the field.

Yuto held out his hand, "I use the Level 3 Ragged Glove and Silent Boots to construct the Overlay Network!" Both monsters turned into streams of dark energy that were absorbed into a portal as Yuto chanted, "Souls of knights who fell on the battlefield. Revive here and now, and become the light that breaks the darkness! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 3! Phantom Knights Break Sword (ATK: 2000, DEF: 1000, RNK: 3, OVU: 2)!" A headless warrior mounting an eerie horse and clad in armor surrounded by blue flames, which held a sword missing its tip in its right hand, appeared on Yuto's field.

"Due to the effect of Ragged Glove, Break Sword gains 1000 ATK since it was Xyz Summoned." Yuto said as Break Sword gained more power from one of its materials.

Phantom Knights Break Sword (ATK: 2000→3000)

"Additionally, I activate the effect of Phantom Wing in my Graveyard," said Yuto as he held out a hand. "I can banish this card then target a "Phantom Knights" in my Graveyard and Special Summon it, but it is banished when it leaves the field. Return, Phantom Knights Enchanted Scepter (ATK: 1600)!" After Phantom Wing was banished, Enchanted Scepter appeared from a dark portal in the ground.

"Even though they're sent to the Graveyard, they keep coming back." commented Yuya. "Gotta say that I admire the tenacity of those Phantom Knights."

"Yes. Phantom Knights are never gone and can return as many times as needed. They will strike back at the enemy with all of their might." Yuto said as he raised a fist. He then held it out towards Break Sword, "I activate Break Sword's effect! By using an Overlay Unit, I target a card both me and my opponent controls and destroy them." Break Sword aimed his sword at Yuya as one of the Overlay Units vanished.

Phantom Knights Break Sword (OVU: 2→1)

"If I'm reading it right, your Odd-Eyes can't be destroyed as long as Power of the Guardians has a Spell Counter to be removed. So, I'll destroy Enchanted Scepter and Power of the Guardians." Break Sword thrusted his long sword into the ground which caused an eruption of dark fire that engulfed both Scepter and the face-up magic card away.

Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 3500→3000)

Yuto took out Silent Boots from his Graveyard, "I banish Silent Boots from my Graveyard in order to add a "Phantom" Magic/Trap Card from my Deck to my hand. I add Phantom Fog Blade to my hand." He pocketed Silent Boots before he added a card to his hand.

"Next, I activate the Trap Card: Phantom Sword! By activating this card, one monster I target gains 800 ATK." The sword Break Sword wielded got bigger as it glowed purple.

Phantom Knights Break Sword (ATK: 3000→3800)

Yuto held out his hand toward Dark Rebellion, "I use Dark Rebellion's effect once more by using an Overlay Unit. Treason Discharge!" The last of Dark Rebellion's Overlay Units vanished before the dragon generated and zapped Odd-Eyes with its electricity, binding the other dragon and sapping its strength away as Odd-Eyes groaned in distress.

Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 3000→1500)
Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon (OVU: 1→0) (ATK: 3000→4500)

"This is bad. If Yuya takes attacks from both of Yuto's monsters, he'll lose!" cried Rin as she looked a little worried for Yuya. With the amount of ATK difference between Yuya and Yuto's monsters, the damage Yuya could take would cause him to lose.

Lucine frowned a little, "Is this all that Yuya amounts to?" She said that with a little disappointment in her voice. Although, she has a feeling that it is not over, there is more to Yuya than meets the eye as Ruri had said and she has witnessed it before.

"No, Yuya will pull through. I know he will." said Yuzu with confidence in her voice. Ruri didn't say anything but felt the same thing Yuzu had said.

Yuto pointed at Yuya, "Battle! I attack Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon with Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon!" Dark Rebellion roared before he flew straight towards Odd-Eyes who ran to intercept him.

Yuya gasped a little as he felt the pressure in his chest again, making him grab it with his hand. Yuto grunted a little too as he held his chest. Odd-Eyes and Dark Rebellion headbutted each other as they continued to clash, one trying to outmatch the other.

While still confused by this burning feeling, Yuya had to react as he held out a hand, "It is not over yet. I activate Treasurer Magician's Pendulum Effect! During either player's turn, I can destroy it and another "Magician" in my Pendulum Zone, my Pendulum Monsters cannot be destroyed this turn and I take no battle damage from battles with them!" Treasurer flipped the pages through his book before he held the book towards Yuya and bowed to him along with Timegazer, both magicians were then destroyed as all of Yuya's Pendulum Monsters, including Odd-Eyes, glowed yellow momentarily. Just then, Dark Rebellion's horn glowed as he pushed back and stabbed Odd-Eyes but, although it connected, the dragon didn't feel anything as it was protected by the magic barrier put up.

"And because I activated an effect in my Pendulum Zone, Odd-Eyes Magician allows me to draw a card." Yuya drew a card after Odd-Eyes Magician nodded to him in approval.

Yuto narrowed his eyes before he pointed at one of Yuya's monsters, "In that case, I'll target the one monster that's not a Pendulum Monster. Break Sword, attack Entermate Support Swan! Decapitation Slash!" Break Sword swung his broken sword, cutting Support Swan in half and destroying it.

"It is impressive that he managed to survive for this long," commented Lucine as she was referring to Yuya's tenacity.

"I activate the effect of Phantom Knights Cursed Treasures in my Graveyard. By banishing this card, I can return up to three of my banished "Phantom Knights" monsters or "Phantom" Magic or Trap Cards to the Graveyard." announced Yuto as he returned Silent Boots, Corrode Scales, and Torn Mail to the Graveyard after banishing the magic card.

Yuto placed a card in his duel disk, "I set a card and end my turn." Yuto began breathing a little heavily as Dark Rebellion roared again while facing Odd-Eyes, almost like the dragon is calling out to him.

Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 1500→3000)
Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon (ATK: 4500→3000)

After regaining his composure again, Yuto calmly stated, "At this moment, I activate Dark Rebellion's last effect. During the End Phase, if it has no Overlay Units, I can target up to 2 Level 4 or below Monsters from my Graveyard and attach them as Xyz Material." A dark portal emerged before two spheres of light appeared from it and hovered around Dark Rebellion.

Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon (OVU: 0→2)

Yuya frowned, "So that means Dark Rebellion can use its effect as many times as needed." Learning from his brother, one of the weaknesses for Xyz Monsters was that if it had no Overlay Units left, in most scenarios, it can't use its effects anymore but this dragon has found an answer to that weakness.

"My turn!" Yuya drew his card before he took out a different one, "I Normal Summon Entermate Fire Mufferlion (ATK: 800→1300, DEF: 800, LV: 3, PS: 5)!" Yuya brought the fire-maned lion, wearing a colorful hat and tie, onto the field.

"And when I have an "Entermate" on my field, I can Special Summon, the Tuner monster, Entermate Security Jackal (ATK: 1500, DEF: 600, LV: 3) from my hand!" Security Jackal appeared next to the fiery lion.

Yuya moved his arm around as he said, "I tune my Level 3 Security Jackal with my Level 3 Entermate Fire Mufferlion (3 + 3 = 6)!" Both Mufferlion and Jackal flew into the air before Jackal turned into three green energy rings that surrounded Mufferlion as his body disappeared, turning into the three stars it left behind, gathering inside the force of the rings.

"Warrior clouded in shadows, master of the elemental arts! Reveal yourself as the one who seeks honor and justice! Synchro Summon! Appear, Level 6! Entermate Infiltration Ninja (ATK: 2000, DEF: 1300, LV: 6)!" The dark clad, performer ninja appeared from a puff of smoke.

Yuya then pointed at Ninja, "I activate Entermate Infiltration Ninja's monster effect! By halving this card's ATK this turn, it can attack directly!"

Entermate Infiltration Ninja (ATK: 2000→1000)

"Even if it can attack directly, it would only be 1000 points of damage," commented Yuto as he narrowed his eyes in curiosity. "I do wonder what you have planned. Your skill has shown you have many surprises hidden." He frowned for some reason at that last part.

Yuya, however, gave off a smile as he held up a card, "You'll have to find out soon. For now, anything can happen in a duel. Like this for example! I activate the Magic Card: Power Vitalization! With this card, for the rest of the turn, when my monsters attack yours, they gain ATK equal to half of the monster it battles until the end of the Damage Step." A red aura surrounded all of Yuya's monsters as they gained extra abilities.

"Battle! Infiltration Ninja, attack Yuto directly! Stealth Kamui!" Infiltration Ninja performed a few hand signs before disappearing into from a puff of smoke and silently dashing towards Yuto, holding his dagger while invisible.

However, Yuto was unfazed as he took a trap out from his duel disk, "I activate the effect of Phantom Gate in my Graveyard. When my opponent declares a direct attack, I can banish this card to negate that attack and then gain LP equal to that monster's ATK!" Hollow, black gates blocked Ninja's path just as he was about to strike before he silently retreated.

YUTO LP: 2600→3600

Yuya gritted his teeth before he turned to Odd-Eyes who nodded in approval as he wanted to get into the action. Yuya turned back and pointed at Yuto, "Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon attack…!"

Yuto, however, interrupted him as he pressed a button on his duel disk, "I activate the Continuous Trap: Phantom Fog Blade!" As Odd-Eyes took a step, he grunted in surprise and shook around vigorously before realizing he couldn't move. It was then that he noticed there was a sword, with the blade made out of ghostly energy, piercing into his back, realizing that was what's stopping him.

As Yuya was surprised, Yuto clarified what he did, "I can activate this by targeting an Effect Monster on the field. As long as this card is active, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon's effects are negated, it cannot attack and is unable to be targeted for attacks." Although, nobody noticed that something was happening to Yuto as his eyes flashed for a second.

Dark Rebellion roared again as it stared up into the sky. Yuya grunted as he felt the burning feeling again before he noticed something. With the observations he made, whatever he is feeling has something do with Dark Rebellion though he can't quite tell what or why that is. Dark Rebellion's eyes flashed red as a dark aura surrounded the dragon.

As Yuya felt unnerved for some reason as he looked at the dragon, he heard someone, "...one." He turned to the sound of the voice in confusion, "Huh?" He heard it coming from Yuto but he couldn't see his face as he hung his head low.

The girls noticed that something was off as Yuya and Yuto weren't doing anything. Ruri looked on in concern as she saw Yuto looking down at the ground, "Yuto?" Meanwhile, the chiming got louder before the girls, minus Yuzu and Lucine, raised their arms again to look at the bracelets, showing that they were blinking even faster. Lucine looked even more cautious than ever as she saw the bracelets, "What's happening?"

While no one can see his face, Yuto had his head lowered as his whole eyes appeared to be whited out and glowing blue. He was gritting his teeth as he was struggling to stay calm.

Yuya noticed Yuto not saying anything and looked concerned, "Hey, are you okay?" As soon as he said that, he felt his head was spinning as he grabbed the side of his head in pain. Yuya was breathing heavily again as he felt the world was spinning. His hearing was getting worse as Dark Rebellion's roaring sounded farther and farther away. Eventually, Yuya was feeling really groggy and felt like he was going to pass out for some reason. As he felt his eyes drooping, for a split second, he thought he saw a black aura around Odd-Eyes.

However, he heard something cry out in concern, "That's enough! Yuya!"

As the girls felt unnerved and confused by what the boys were doing, suddenly, the chiming stopped as Rin's bracelet shined a bright light over the entire area, blinding everyone as they couldn't see anything. The shining got bigger as it engulfed both Yuya and Yuto who were unaware of what was happening. Nobody could see anything for a few seconds though the roaring eventually stopped altogether.

Once the light dimmed out, Yuzu, Ruri, Rin and Lucine opened their eyes in shock and surprise as to what just happened. Ruri and Rin looked at their bracelets and noticed they stopped blinking and making that chime noise, appearing to be back to normal. They all blinked their eyes as they don't know what transpired before they turned to Yuya and Yuto. There was no longer a dark aura around either dragon. Yuto's eyes weren't glowing anymore as he raised his head, showing everyone they were normal again as he held his forehead in confusion, not really sure what just happened.

Odd-Eyes opened his eyes before he gasped in shock, "Huh?" He looked around the field frantically as he doesn't remember what just happened. He felt like he wasn't himself for a moment. Odd-Eyes Magician narrowed his eyes as he watched that whole situation transpire, not sure what to make of it either.

Yuya felt his vision clearing as the headache was no longer there and he didn't feel sleepy anymore. He soon felt better as he let go of his head. Yuya was looking at the ground, deep in thought as he breathed in and out, "What was that?" All of a sudden he had a bad headache and his vision was fuzzy before it stopped soon after. It was very strange.

Yuto was looking down as he stared at his hand, "What happened?" He wondered why he felt tired and just woke up from something. The last thing he remembers is when he activated Phantom Fog Blade but nothing else comes to mind.

"Yuto! Yuya!" The boys turned to see Ruri with a worried expression on her face, "Are you okay?!" She doesn't know what just happened but she has a feeling that it wasn't good for the both of them and wanted to make sure they were okay.

Yuto blinked his eyes for a second before he regained his composure and turned back to facing Yuya, "I'm fine." While he questions what exactly happened, he feels he shouldn't bother anyone with something he isn't sure yet.

Yuya regained his senses fully as well before he gave Ruri a thumbs up and smiled, "I'm okay as well." He's not sure what happened either but he feels better now.

Ruri sighed in happiness as she held a heart to her heart, relieved that both of them are alright and nothing bad had happened to them.

Yuzu lowered her eyes and frowned, "Why did I feel something...ominous?" She was at a loss for what she saw but, for some reason, felt a bad feeling in the pit of her stomach during that situation.

Lucine narrowed her eyes in suspicion as that scene did not look like normal. She wagered something must've happened to Yuya and Yuto although she can't tell what it was. She looked at the two dragons on the field, "I wonder...did those dragons do something?"

After a few seconds of pause, Yuto faced Yuya with a neutral expression on his face, "Yuya. Although, I'm not sure if it is needed but do you wish to continue this duel?" Given the fact that the duel was interrupted for whatever reason, he is curious as to Yuya's response if he wants to keep going.

Yuya paused for a moment before he smiled, "Sure. If you're okay with it as well."

Yuto nodded his head before he closed his eyes, deep in thought, "...You really are a genuine guy."

Yuya looked at his hand and his duel disk to reassess the situation, "Alright, if I remember right…"

"Yuya!" Yuya's eyes widened in surprise from hearing someone yelling before recognizing the voice: it was the one he heard when he had that headache and he knew who it belonged to. Yuya looked a little confused, "Mystic?" He wondered what his other dragon had to say.

"Listen to me. You mustn' fight that dragon right now. It is too dangerous." Yuya raised an eyebrow before realizing Mystic was referring to Dark Rebellion. Yuya turned his head to look at the dragon who was roaring again up into the sky.

Yuya turned his eyes to the side again in confusion, "But why?" Mystic immediately answered, "You'll have to trust me." Yuya narrowed his eyes and looked at Dark Rebellion before he nodded, "Alright."

"It is still the Battle Phase. Odd-Eyes Magician, attack Phantom Knights Break Sword!" Odd-Eyes nodded and spun his staff before he flew towards Break Sword. "At this moment, the effect of Power Vitalization activates! Odd-Eyes gains ATK equal to half of Break Sword's ATK!"

Odd-Eyes Magician (ATK: 2800→4700)

"Spiral Magic!" Odd-Eyes unleashed his magic blast towards Break Sword, who was blocking part of the attack with his sword by using it as a shield.

"Then, I'll use Phantom Sword's other effect. By destroying this card, I can negate Break Sword's destruction." said Yuto as the energy disappeared from the sword before it returned to its regular form. Odd-Eyes' blast then redirected towards Yuto who was pushed back a couple feet.

YUTO LP: 3600→2700

Odd-Eyes Magician then returned to Yuya's side as Break Sword had his own sword back to normal.

Odd-Eyes Magician (ATK: 4700→2800)
Phantom Knights Break Sword (ATK: 3800→3000)

Yuya pointed at his other monsters, "Sacredragon, attack Break Sword!" Sacredragon gathered magic into his staff before launching it at Break Sword.

Sacredragon Magician (ATK: 2900→4400)

Yuto still looked determined as he announced, "I banish the second Corrode Scales in order to prevent Break Sword from being destroyed again." As the second trap was banished, Break Sword took the blast again while trying to defend himself. Break Sword was alright but Yuto gritted his teeth a little from the damage he took.

YUTO LP: 2700→1300
Sacredragon Magician (ATK: 4400→2900)

Yuya placed the last two cards in his hand into his duel disk, "I set two cards and end my turn."

"My turn. I draw!" Yuto looked at the card he drew and paused for a moment before he held out his duel disk. "I activate the effect of Silent Boots in my Graveyard! By banishing this card, I add a "Phantom" Magic or Trap Card from my Deck to my hand." Silent Boots was banished again as Yuto added a card to his hand.

Yuto held up the card he just added, "I activate the Continuous Magic: Phantom Chariot!" A dark gray chariot with purple pattern designs and a ghostly, blue aura around it appeared next to Yuto. There wasn't anything attached since it was just the carriage itself.

"I use Break Sword's last Overlay Unit to destroy both Fog Blade and Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon." said Yuto as he held out a hand. Break Sword absorbed the last orb of light into his weapon before he destroyed both Odd-Eyes and Fog Blade, banishing them from the field.

Phantom Knights Break Sword (OVU: 1→0)

Yuya picked up Odd-Eyes' card and was about to put it in his Extra Deck. He was then caught off guard when Yuto spoke, "I'm afraid it won't be going to the Extra Deck." As Yuya was confused, Yuto continued in a calm manner, "With Phantom Chariot on my field, as long as I have a "Phantom Knights" card in my Graveyard, any monsters that you control that would be destroyed and sent to the Graveyard are banished instead."

Yuya's eyes widened in shock from what he heard, "They're banished?!"

Yuzu looked on in concern, "If they are banished, that means Yuya can't summon them back anymore."

Yuto placed a hand under his chin, "I don't know much about Pendulum Monsters but I do know when they're destroyed, they go to the Extra Deck and can be resummoned. So, what happens if they banished?" He lowered his eyes at that last part. Yuya gritted his teeth in response.

Rin narrowed her eyes as she looked concerned for Yuya, "I wonder if Yuya can counter something like this."

Ruri frowned, "Be careful, Yuya." She wondered if this is another part of Yuto testing him. She does know it will be a little tricky from now on.

Lucine narrowed her eyes a little, "He must have prepared for this." She wagered that Yuto must have taken extra precautions regarding Pendulum Monsters after seeing them in her duel with Yuzu. After all, if you don't prepare for things your opponent throws at you, then you won't be able to win.

Yuya frowned as he reluctantly pocketed the card, forced to banish Odd-Eyes. He turned to back Yuto as he pondered what to think. Yuto managed to figure out a weakness of the Pendulum Monsters. If they're banished, they can't be Pendulum Summoned back. While he is impressed and has more respect for Yuto, it is going to be harder to win this duel since he has to be careful with the Pendulum Monsters he summons if they're destroyed. Just then, Yuya noticed something strange as he held his chest, "Huh? That burning feeling is gone." He felt normal again after that strange feeling left his chest.

Yuto held up a fist, "Just as we're pushed back, we of the Resistance push back even stronger. I activate Dark Rebellion's monster effect! Treason Discharge!" Dark Rebellion roared before it absorbed one of his Overlay Units and charged up purple electricity in his wings. He then unleashed onto Odd-Eyes Magician who groaned from having his strength sapped away.

Odd-Eyes Magician (ATK: 2800→1400)
Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon (OVU: 2→1) (ATK: 3000→4400)

"Battle! Dark Rebellion attacks Odd-Eyes Magician! Revolt of Lightning Disobey!" Electricity was still in Dark Rebellion's wings as the dragon flew towards Yuya's magician.

Yuya frowned before he retaliated, "I activate the Trap Card: Trick Barrier! With this card, Dark Rebellion must now attack the monster I choose instead." He pointed at his ninja, "I select Infiltration Ninja!" Dark Rebellion changed his trajectory, now flying in the direction of Infiltration Ninja just as Yuya pressed another button, "I activate the Continuous Trap: Magicians' Protection! As long as I have a Spellcaster on my field, all damage I take is halved!" Dark Rebellion's horn glowed before it lunged and stabbed Ninja in the chest, destroying it and making Yuya take a step back from the shockwave.

YUYA LP: 3700→2500

"Since the monster I selected with Trick Barrier was destroyed, I get to draw a card." Yuya drew a card after his monster was destroyed.

"I still have plenty of attacks left. Dark Rebellion, attack Odd-Eyes Magician!" Yuto called out as the dragon then turned and striked Odd-Eyes with his horn, destroying the magician.

YUYA LP: 2500→1000

"Since Odd-Eyes Magician is no longer on the field, his effect to increase ATK isn't in play anymore." stated Yuto as Yuya's last monster went back to normal strength.

Sacredragon Magician (ATK: 2900→2400)

"Break Sword attacks Sacredragon Magician!" Break Sword's horse galloped and charged forward toward the magician. The knight slashed through the magician, destroying it. Yuya grunted as he felt the impact of the slash.

YUYA LP: 1000→700

"I see. You used your resources strategically enough so that you'd survive this turn. Well done." said Yuto neutrally as he was a little impressed by how Yuya used his traps to survive the rest of the turn. Had Yuya used Trick Barrier on something else, he would have taken more damage and lost.

Yuto grabbed a card from his hand and placed it in his duel disk, "I set a card face-down and end my turn."

Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon (ATK: 4400→3000)

"It's my turn! I draw!" Yuya drew his card before he looked at the other card in his hand to consider his options. Yuya frowned as he then called out, "I Normal Summon Entermater La Panda (ATK: 800, DEF: 800, LV: 3, PS: 3)." Yuya brought out the adorable, tuba playing panda.

"I set a card and end my turn." Yuya reluctantly just placed a face-down as he had nothing else left to do.

Rin frowned in concern, "With his option of Pendulum Summoned weakened, Yuya can't do much else this turn."

Yuto stared at Yuya for a few seconds before he closed his eyes, "I see. Very well then." He then opened his eyes as he drew a card, "My turn, draw. I activate the Trap Card: Phantom Knights Shadow Veil. One monster on my field gains 300 ATK & DEF."

Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon (ATK: 3000→3300, DEF: 2500→2800)

Yuto held out his hand, "I activate the effect of Phantom Fog Blade in my Graveyard. By banishing this card, I can summon a "Phantom Knights" from my Graveyard but it is banished when it leaves the field. Return to the field, Phantom Knights Worn Axe (ATK: 2200)!" Worn Axe returned to Yuto's side of the field.

"I follow up with another effect. I banish Slash Visor in my Graveyard in order to shuffle a banished "Phantom" card back into my Deck." After Slash Visor was banished, Yuto took Cursed Treasures and shuffled back into the deck. "Then, I activate Ragged Glove's effect. By banishing this card from my Graveyard, I can send a "Phantom" card from my Deck to the Graveyard." Ragged Glove was banished as Yuto took the same magic card, Cursed Treasures, and placed it back into the graveyard. After that, Yuto immediately took out Cursed Treasures from his duel disk, "By banishing Cursed Treasures from my Graveyard again, three of my banished "Phantom" cards return to the Graveyard." He returned Silent Boots, Enchanted Scepter, and Corrode Scales back to his graveyard.

"I activate the Magic Card: Phantom Reincarnation. I discard a card and add a "Phantom" card that's banished or in my Graveyard to my hand." Yuto send a card to the Graveyard and added another to his hand before he immediately activated it, "I activate the Continuous Magic: Phantom Death Spear." A face-up magic card, that shows an image of a dark spear with a magical circle, appeared next to the chariot.

Yuto took out Phantom Sword from his duel disk afterward, "I banish Phantom Sword from my Graveyard in order to summon a "Phantom Knights" from my Graveyard. Come, Phantom Knights Enchanted Scepter (ATK: 1600)!" Enchanted Scepter reappeared from a dark portal in the ground.

Yuya looked on in curiosity as Yuto now had four monsters to attack with, "He's definitely not pulling any punches." Not that he wants him to anyway but it will be more tricky.

"Battle! Worn Axe attacks Entermate La Panda. When Worn Axe attacks a monster in Defense Position, it can inflict piercing damage." Worn Axe extended his arm and threw the axe towards the panda with the blade of it glowing purple.

"Watch out!" shouted Ruri in concern. Lucine raised an eyebrow from seeing Ruri react like that before she turned back to the duel, curious if Yuya has a response.

Yuya held out a hand as he responded, "I activate Entermate La Panda's monster effect! Once per turn, when a Pendulum Monster I control is attacked, the attack is negated!" La Panda blew into his tuba in which the sound waves deflected the axe back towards the knight.

Yuto gestured towards Break Sword, "Then, I'll have Enchanted Scepter attack La Panda." Enchanted held up the scepter in its hollow hands, making lightning come crashing down and destroying Yuya's monster.

"Break Sword, attack Yuya directly!" As the girls watched in anxiety, Yuya just watched as the headless knight galloped his horse and charged straight for him. Then, Yuya pressed a button on his duel disk, "I activate the Trap Card: Entermate Call! When my opponent's monster declares a direct attack, it targets the monster and negates the attack!" The knight swung his sword which was blocked by a red barrier, making the knight go back to Yuto's side.

Yuto, however, held out his hand towards his face-up card, "Phantom Death Spear's effect. Each time my opponent activates a card or effect that targets a "Phantom Knights" I control, this card inflicts 500 damage to him!" Yuya's eyes widened as a dark spear came out and flew towards Yuya to stab him. Yuya quickly sidestepped out of the way as the spear missed and hit the ground behind him.

YUYA LP: 700→200

Yuya took out two monsters from his deck and added to his hand, "Entermate Call also allows me to add up to 2 "Entermate" monsters to my hand whose total DEF is equal or less than the ATK of the monster that attacked. But there is one drawback. Until the end of my next turn, I can't Special Summon from the Extra Deck." He added Kuribohrder and Skullcrobat Joker to his hand.

"In that case, Dark Rebellion attacks you directly!" Dark Rebellion flew towards Yuya as the horn under his chin was glowing again.

Yuya narrowed his eyes before he looked down at his hand and revealed a card from it, "I activate the effect of Entermate Kuribohrder in my hand. When I'm attacked directly, I can negate the attack and Special Summon Entermate Kuribohrder (ATK: 300, DEF: 200, LV: 1) to my field!" Kuribohrder was summoned to the field and made a kuri-kuri sound after Dark Rebellion stopped advancing at Yuya. "And then, I gain LP equal to the ATK of Dark Rebellion."

YUYA LP: 200→3500

Yuto narrowed his eyes in response before he pointed at his dragon, "Then I'll have Dark Rebellion attack Entermate Kuribohrder!" Because of Dark Rebellion's effect, it has an extra attack as it flew and knocked around Kuribohrder with his wings, destroying the cute kuriboh. As the explosion subsided, Yuya thought he saw something shining in Dark Rebellion's eyes before he was too far away to see it up close now as it returned to Yuto's side.

Lucine turned her head to Ruri, "Ruri, what was that?" As Ruri looked confused by the question, Lucine further clarified, "You reacted like you didn't want Yuya to lose. Do you not want Yuto to win?" She would think that Ruri would prefer Yuto winning over Yuya.

Ruri was caught off guard by the question and hadn't really thought of it before. After a few seconds of thinking, she then sheepishly rubbed the back of her neck, "Well...I don't want to see Yuya lose but I also want Yuto to win." She can't decide between the two as they're both her friends.

Lucine widened her eyes in surprise and was about to respond before Rin interrupted her, "There's nothing wrong with that, Ruri." Rin had a hand on Ruri's shoulder as she smiled at her encouragingly, "I think it's nice that you can't choose between friends. After all, if Yuya and Yugo were to duel, I'd have a hard time picking either one as well." Ruri smiled back in response. Lucine could only watch on in surprise and Yuzu watched this exchange, smiling as well.

"I end my turn," stated Yuto.

"My turn!" Yuya drew his card before he looked at his hand and pondered what to do while narrowing his eyes. He was kinda stuck in a corner since he doesn't have many options this turn.

"It is difficult, isn't it?" Yuya raised his head to see Yuto who had a serious expression on his face. "Having your options restricted while experiencing actual pain in a duel. I have seen Academia soldiers do that to so many of my comrades and the only thing I saw on their faces was anger and despair." Yuto lowered his eyes as his expression softened, "I am certain that you will experience similar hardships. Especially when facing a hardcore type of dueling."

Yuya had a frown on his face as he looked down at both the ground and at his cards. However, after a few seconds, he raised his head and smiled at Yuto. Yuto was confused as he narrowed his eyes, "What are you smiling for?" He wondered what Yuya would be smiling about especially since he just explained how hard it would be to enjoy dueling with Academia.

"Yuto. While I admit that you might be right, I decide how I want to duel. Even if Academia doesn't agree, I'll still keep fighting with how I've always believed in dueling." He held up a card with a smirk, "Even if the future is bleak, I believe there's always a small chance of hope. And I intend to take it. I activate the Magic Card: Pot of Riches! By shuffling three Pendulum Monsters face-up from my Extra Deck or Graveyard in the Deck, I draw two cards. However, I can't Special Summon during this turn except if I Pendulum Summon." He took three cards (Power Magician, Treasurer Magician, and Momoncarpet) and shuffled them into the deck before he drew two cards.

"And now I Normal Summon Entermate Skullcrobat Joker (ATK: 1800, DEF: 100, LV: 4, PS: 8)!" Skullcrobat Joker appeared on Yuya's field as it posed, ready to perform for an audience. "When Joker is Normal Summoned, I can add an "Entermate" or "Odd-Eyes" monster, or a "Magician" Pendulum Monster from my Deck." Yuya added Entermate Drago Remora to his hand after he revealed it.

Yuya had a look of determination on his face when he looked at his hand with an idea in mind, "I hope this works…" He then placed another card in his duel disk, "I set a card and end my turn!"

Yuto pondered what Yuya said for a few seconds before he yelled out, "My turn!" He then pointed his hand that was holding the card toward Yuya, "If you think you have the resolve to face them, then prove it by surviving this turn and overcoming these odds." Yuya lowered his eyes as he said nothing in response, silently accepting the challenge.

"Dark Rebellion, attack Skullcrobat Joker! Revolt of Lightning Disobey!" Lightning charged up in Dark Rebellion's wings as it flew towards Joker.

Yuya held out his hand, "I activate the Counter Trap: Attack Nullification! It negates Dark Rebellion's attack and end the Battle Phase!" Dark Rebellion then redirected his flight and flew back to Yuto's side.

"The fact that you managed to hold on this long is impressive. Such tenacity would be appreciated among many of us." said Yuto in an impressed tone before he gestured his duel disk, "I banish Silent Boots from my Graveyard in order to add a "Phantom" Magic or Trap to my hand." After Silent Boots was banished, Yuto added a trap from his Deck before he immediately placed it in his duel disk, "I set a card and end my turn."

Lucine watched with wonder showing in her eyes, "It is impressive that Yuya manages to keep fighting after taking so much punishment." She might have found a newfound respect for him as a duelist, much more so than Yuzu probably.

"That's just how he is. He's not the type to give up on any challenge," stated Yuzu with a smile on her face. Rin nodded in agreement while Ruri, though she agreed as well, just watched with a concerned expression on her face.

"My turn!" Yuya drew his card with a lot of force and determination into it. Yuya smiled as he held up a card, "This was fun, but it is time that I end this! I activate the Magic Card: Pre-Preparation of Rites! With this card, I add a Ritual Magic from my Deck to my hand along with a Ritual Monster whose name is listed on that card from my Deck or Graveyard."

Yuto's eyes widened in surprise, "Both a Ritual Magic and a monster?" That meant Yuya also knew how to Ritual Summon which would truly mean he knows all of the summoning methods.

Yuya held up the two cards he added to his hand, "I add both Holy Glow Ritual and Mystic Glow Ritual Dragon to my hand!" He then placed one of them in his deck, "I now activate the Ritual Magic: Holy Glow Ritual! I tribute the Level 4 Entermate Skullcrobat Joker and Entermate Drago Remora in my hand!" The dark blue temple with metal torches and ancient pillars appeared behind Yuya. Next to Skullcrobat Joker, a green dragon, whose body was similar to a remora, with orange horns, red polka-dotted tie, blue scarf, and a star coin on top of its head materialize on the field. Joker and Remora turned into blue flames that lit up the touches, opening the gate as Yuya chanted.

"Blue dragon that lives in the skies! Come down to this earth to shine your holy judgement upon our foes! Ritual Summon! Appear, Level 8! Mystic Glow Ritual Dragon (ATK: 2800, DEF: 2000, LV: 8)!" Mystic emerged from the gateway as it roared proudly with its wing shining brightly.

Yuto looked at the dragon, "Mystic Glow…" He then noticed something as he held a hand to his chest, "That feeling is getting...weaker?" Dark Rebellion looked at the new dragon and roared in defiance while Mystic just narrowed its eyes in response.

"He can Ritual Summon as well?" Lucine stated as she felt a strange warmness from that dragon as soon as it appeared on the field. The other girls were feeling the same thing as they watched in anticipation.

"Yuya!" He turned his head toward Mystic as his gaze was on his master, "Please. Have me fight against Dark Rebellion." Mystic seemed to asking this as a favor but Yuya wasn't exactly sure why he asked that. Yuya stared at him for a second before he smirked, "Sure!"

Yuya held out his hand, "I activate Mystic Glow's monster effect! Once per turn, I target a monster in my Graveyard and Special Summon it in Defense Position with its effects negated! Holy Resurrection!" Mystic roared while the inside of his wings were glowing, creating a white portal in the ground that Entermate Natural Mage (DEF: 1900) emerged from.

"And then, Mystic's ATK is increased by that monster's ATK until the end of the turn!" A white veil surrounded Natural Mage before it shifted towards Mystic roaring as it gained more power, "It is time...my friend!" Mystic said that as his gaze was directed at the other dragon.

Mystic Glow Ritual Dragon (ATK: 2800→5200)

Yuto's eyes widened, "5200 ATK?" That's enough to defeat any one of his monsters. Meanwhile, Dark Rebellion was growling at Mystic for some reason as a shine in his eyes got brighter.

Yuya pointed at Yuto, "Battle! Mystic Glow Ritual Dragon attacks Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon!" Mystic flapped his wings before flying straight towards Dark Rebellion who also flew forward to counter back.

Yuto gritted his teeth before he reached out to his duel disk, "I activate the Trap…!"

"Sorry, but you can't! When Mystic attacks, you're not allowed to activate Magic or Traps during the Damage Step!" interrupted Yuya which surprised Yuto even more as he was basically defenseless.

Mystic and Rebellion clashed with each other as their horns collided, one trying to push back the other. Mystic grunted as he fought back, "Dark Rebellion, I know you can hear me! You have to stop!" Dark Rebellion roared in annoyance before the dragon stepped back and tried to knock Mystic back with his wings. Mystic dodged them by jumping in the air before kicking Rebellion in the face who groaned in pain.

Then, Mystic's whole body was glowing blue as Yuya called out, "Imperial Light Sacred Cleansing!" The horn on Mystic's head glowed white as well as the gem in his chest. Mystic flash-forwarded at tremendous speed and stopped right in front of Dark Rebellion. Dark Rebellion hadn't recovered from the kick yet but it was too late. Mystic reached out and grappled Rebellion with his arms, preventing him from escaping as he struggled in pain. After Dark Rebellion roared in defiance while it tried to headbutt Mystic, Mystic pushed back and roared, "Come to your senses, my old friend!" His horn was fully charged before Mystic lunged forward and pierced Dark Rebellion in the chest with his horn. The horn unleashed light energy across Dark Rebellion and engulfed the dragon fully as it blinded everyone in the arena, no one being able to see what happens next. Dark Rebellion roared as it was feeling an unfamiliar pain in his body, shaking restlessly before the dragon was blown back by the sheer force of the light blast. As Mystic and every other monster slowly vanished from the field, the red shine in Dark Rebellion's eyes disappeared. Dark Rebellion took a second before he regained his senses; surprised and confused by what he was now seeing as he was flying backwards, "...Mystic?" He saw a familiar face although it was faint and blurry before Dark Rebellion was completely destroyed and gone from the field.

Yuto, while still blinded by the light, seem content with the attack as he kept a calm expression on his face before he witnessed his dragon getting destroyed. Although it was faint, a small smile appeared on Yuto's face as he took the last damage.

YUTO LP: 1300→0

YUYA: WIN
YUTO: LOSE

All monsters eventually disappeared from the field entirely after the light became less intense and then gone completely. Yuto exhaled as he kneeled on one knee, feeling exhausted from both the attack and the duel itself. Yuya felt a little fatigued as well as he stumbled a bit before he walked towards Yuto.

Ruri gasped in worry before she ran right toward them. As Yuya stopped in front of Yuto, Ruri stopped and kneeled down at him, "Are you okay?"

"Yeah. I'm fine." Yuto said as he tried to quell her concerns although he felt a little tired. Ruri smiled in relief before she turned to Yuya which she saw him nod in response which told her the same thing.

Yuzu, Rin and Lucine also ran to where they were and stopped behind Ruri, wondering what would happen now. Yuto regained his energy before he noticed Yuya in front of him who had a look of curiosity on his face. Yuto stared at him for a few seconds before he closed his eyes in acceptance, "Well done." He was impressed by what he had seen and accepted that Yuya is strong enough to help take on Academia as well as maybe his other friends.

He raised his head as he looked at Yuya, "Tell me, even if you have hope in your heart, do you still think you can keep that mentality if you help us?" He was curious as to what Yuya's answer is.

Yuya looked at the ground with a grim expression, "...I don't know. I understand the risks when dueling trained soldiers that cause pain and destruction." His face then looked determined as he looked back up, "But, I will keep dueling the way I believe in. No matter what happens, I will fight for what is right." He said that resolve in his voice which surprised Lucine while the other girls smiled in response.

Yuto gasped a little in surprise before he processed what Yuya said. Yuya reached his hand out toward him and Yuto, giving off a small smile, accepted it as Yuya pulled him off the ground and helped him stand back up. As the girls watched in anticipation, Yuto stared at Yuya for a moment to ponder on his genuine sincerity. Yuto closed his eyes, "...You're a good guy. And your help would be much appreciated." After hearing that, Yuya smiled as it meant that Yuto is accepting their help which is great. Ruri giggled a little from seeing Yuto finally accepting Yuya's help, having seen him both protective and stubborn a few times when it comes to protecting others. Lucine, after giving it some thought, seemed content with the idea as well, nodding and smiling a little in acception.

After a minute passed, everyone was gathered as they pondered what to do next. Then, Yuya had a thought as he suggested something to everyone.

Yuto looked at Yuya, "You want to talk with Reiji Akaba?" Yuya suggested that they should talk to Reiji to get more information about their situation. Lucine raised an eyebrow as she wondered where this was going.

Yuya nodded with his eyes narrowed, "Yeah. I need to talk to him." Even hearing from Yuto and Lucine that Reiji may not be allied with Academia, he doesn't necessarily believe it either even if told otherwise. Since he is the son of Academia's ruler, he needed to ask him some questions. Yuto nodded after seeing Yuya's resolve.

Yuzu looked at Yuya curiously, "I agree with you, Yuya, but how do you suppose we do that? Reiji is not an easy person to talk to or at least meet with him." Considering his position as the president of LDS, you can imagine how difficult it would be to meet with him unless you're someone important. From what Yuya has told them, Mikleo couldn't go further up into the building without having a higher level of authority or identification; figured that they were really cautious of what goes in and out. Sure, they kind of got lucky meeting Reiji for the first time at You Show but she doubts it can happen anytime soon for a while.

As everyone wondered the same thing, a thought came to Ruri's mind as she spoke, "You said that Shun formed an alliance with Reiji, right?"

Lucine nodded her head, "Yes, from what Shun has informed us, it seems that the Professor's son wanted to form an alliance. In exchange for our help, he will help provide allies for the fight against Academia." From the last time they met, Shun specified some of the details from the deal they made.

It seemed Yuto was a little conflicted about it since the crease between his brows deepened before he sighed, "I'm skeptical about it but it will have to work for now. I've told Shun to be on his guard just in case."

"You know I am as well but it is what Shun chose to do," Lucine stated.

"I just hope that Reiji is actually on our side," said Rin with some doubt in her voice.

"Yuya." Yuya snapped out of his trance and turned to Yuzu who looked like she had an idea, "There may be one way we can meet Reiji." She pointed at the direction where the stadium was.

Yuya pondered it for a second before he realized what she was saying, "The Maiami Championship." Yuzu nodded in acknowledgement.

Rin had a look of realization on her face, "I get it. We can use the Maiami Championship as a way to contact him." It is not a bad idea to start with.

The more Yuya thinks about it, the more of a possibility it could be. Reiji is most likely going to be watching the Maiami Championship since Leo Corporation is sponsoring it. There's more of a chance to meet him there than going through security and many different appointments just to get to the man.

"Although…" Yuya had a hand holding his chin as he thought about it more, "Even if we're in the tournament, it is probably not likely we can meet him right off the bat." After all, any higher up of LDS isn't going to waste their time with every duelist they can talk to. If it was someone with more of a reputation, then it would be more likely.

"So, someone might have to win the championship in order to get a chance to meet with him," Rin surmised.

Yuto narrowed his eyes, "Maiami Championship…" It was that same tournament he heard about some time ago. He had thought about entering it to potentially get more allies but chose not to as they had more pressing matters to deal with.

"It's good that you have a plan but I'm more concerned about that Fusion agent," said Lucine with a serious expression on her face.

Yuzu frowned in sadness, "You mean Sora." Lucine was referring to Sora who they now know is someone from the Fusion Dimension.

Yuya looked at Lucine which made her turn to him, "About that, I want to try and convince Sora about what he is doing." As Yuto and Lucine narrowed their eyes in confusion, Yuya explained how he wants to believe in Sora and wants to try to convince him that what Academia is doing isn't right.

Lucine frowned, "You want to try convincing that guy?" Doesn't Yuya understand who and what Academia is all about? To try and talk some sense into a dueling soldier would almost be pointless considering how much they enjoyed causing destruction to their home.

Yuya nodded, "Yeah." He raised a fist up as he looked determined, "Despite who he is, I still consider him a friend. And as his friend, I want to help convince what he is doing is wrong." He figured that maybe Yuto and Lucine would disapprove of this as much as Ruri did before but he had to get his point across.

Yuto and Lucine narrowed their eyes in skepticism and doubt as they thought that it isn't possible for someone from Academia to be convinced. Before Yuto could question even further, he saw the passion in Yuya's eyes for a moment which told him that he was determined to try it even if it might be pointless. Yuto's expression was full of serenity as he closed his eyes, "I understand." If Yuya wanted to, then he'll allow it. He doesn't have much hope of it happening but he figured it can't hurt to try.

Lucine gasped in shock as she turned to Yuto incredulously, "Yuto!" She couldn't believe he would easily allow something like this.

Yuto turned to Lucine and looked at her seriously before he gestured toward Yuya, confusing Lucine for a moment. Lucine looked at Yuya for a second and soon noticed the look on his face, it was telling her that he had hope for Sora and won't give up on him. She stared at him for a few more seconds before her eyes softened and she sighed, "Fine." She doesn't think it will happen but she can't say no to someone with that much passion.

Yuya looked at Yuto and Lucine in curiosity, "What are you guys going to do?"

"We're planning on trying to contact Shun in the meantime," said Yuto. "We haven't heard from him since he made the deal with Reiji."

"We're going to investigate more in this dimension," added Lucine. They think there is still some information to be gathered in this dimension regarding Academia. Lucine turned to Ruri, "Ruri?"

Ruri had a look of reluctance on her face as she stared at the ground while holding one of her arms. She appeared to be conflicted about something which confused Lucine and wondered what was the matter.

An idea came to Yuto's mind as he closed his eyes, "...You want to stay with them."

Everyone else was surprised, including Lucine as her eyes widened, that Ruri was willing to stay with Yuya and the others even after reuniting with her friends. The fact that she didn't respond and looked even more nervous confirms Yuto's suspicion. They wondered what compelled her to make that decision. Yuya, Yuzu and Rin figured she would want to go with Yuto and Lucine after reuniting with them.

Even though she was conflicted, she had an expression of both pleading and reluctance on her face, "...Yes, I'll stay with them for a little longer."

At first, Lucine didn't know what to think and was confused before she got an idea of why Ruri wanted to stay. When she saw Ruri the first time since the war in Heartland, she noticed at some instances where Ruri appeared to be more cheerful than before when she watching the duel just now. Ruri was always an optimistic girl but she was depressed when she fought alongside the Resistance since she never liked using dueling for purposes such as war. Seeing some of her happiness coming back has her thinking, maybe these three have something to do with it. She wagered Yuto was thinking the same thing as he kinda gave in a little too easily so he figured it out faster than she did. Plus, she can keep an eye on that Fusion agent while staying with them. Having reached a theory, she reluctantly sighed before her expression softened, "Alright."

Lucine turned to Yuya, "Please make sure she stays safe." She entrusted her friend's safety to them.

Yuya nodded with a smile, "Sure. You have my word." Yuzu and Rin nodded in agreement before they smiled reassuringly. Lucine stared at Yuya for a second before she nodded in approval.

Ruri frowned in a disapproving manner, "Guys…" She understands their concern but she doesn't need to be protected all of the time. She thinks she can take care of herself pretty well.

"We're just wanna make sure, Ruri." said Yuto. They had to be careful since anything can happen to either one of them. After all, just sometime ago, they thought Ruri might have to be taken by Academia.

After a while, they all decided to eventually meet again in the future to discuss further on what to do. Yuya held out his hand, "Good luck to you, Yuto." Yuto looked back at Yuya while accepting the handshake, "Same to you."

Lucine suddenly hugged Ruri who accepted the gesture back with a warm smile, "Goodbye, Ruri." Ruri replied, "Bye, Lucine." After the hug, Lucine reached out and shook hands with Yuya before doing the same with Yuzu and Rin. Yuya, Yuzu, Ruri and Rin soon left the area altogether leaving Yuto and Lucine by themselves.

Yuto and Lucine weren't saying anything for a moment and were staring off into space. Eventually, Yuto decided to ask, "What do you make of Yuya?"

Lucine didn't respond immediately as she had to think about it for a second. She raised her head while having a pensive expression on her face, "He's...interesting. I'll give him that. I'm more surprised by the fact that he beat you. He's really good." Lucine turned to Yuto as she said that last part before her eyes widened in surprise as she saw something she hasn't seen in a while: Yuto having a genuine smile on his face. "Yuto, you haven't smiled genuinely in a long time." She said that with shock in her voice.

Yuto's smile grew as he looked deep in thought, "...Perhaps so." Maybe it has been a long time since he felt a little joy in his heart. He hasn't kept track since the war started.

"Did he make you smile?" wondered Lucine as she wagered maybe the duel with Yuya sparked something within him.

Yuto raised his head more before he answered, "He's a good guy. People like him...give me hope. Just like him."

---

UNKNOWN

Back in the empty space, Mikleo had his arms crossed together as he looked at the woman, "So, I'm supposed to believe that my brother is involved with the reason the dimensions were split?"

Although it was faint, her expression looked a little grim as she nodded, "Yes. Something like that." She shifted around a little awkwardly as she didn't say anything else.

The woman felt Mikleo's gaze on her as if he was judging her. She looked up and saw that Mikleo looked at her with narrowed eyes. She looked at him before she frowned, "...You don't believe me."

Mikleo shrugged his shoulders before he frowned in skepticism, "Well, forgive me for being suspicious, but how exactly am I supposed to believe my brother is involved with the split of the dimensions? On top of that…" He pointed at her, "I notice you're being extremely vague with me. There's a lot of things you aren't telling me." He could tell she wasn't telling the whole story as he watched her body language with how nervous she looked.

She lowered her head in shame and didn't say anything at the moment which told him she was acknowledging that suspicion. She sighed and then raised her head to look at Mikleo with a frown, "I'm sorry. Due to certain...circumstances, I am unable to tell you everything." She didn't mention that there was some sort of "block" on Mikleo's memories since she didn't want to cast any more suspicion on him. Plus, she wagered he'll figure that out eventually or maybe right now.

As Mikleo narrowed his eyes even more, the woman felt something as her whole body shook for a moment and gasped in surprise. Mikleo heard that and raised an eyebrow, "What's wrong?"

She suddenly smiled as she seem oddly content, "Good. It appears to be over." Mikleo wasn't sure what that was supposed to mean.

Then, she suddenly gasped again with her body fading in and out like a blinking light. She had a solemn look on her face, "Seems I've run out of time for now." She used a lot of her power just then and has almost run out.

Mikleo was confused by what he was seeing before she floated closer to him, "Mikleo, listen to me." She reached out and one of his hands with both of hers and held it out which surprised him, "I need you to help me stop Academia. And...the Professor, Leo Akaba." She said that last part with hesitation in her voice.

Mikleo raised an eyebrow, "Akaba?" If his memory serves right that is Reiji's last name, which would mean that…

"I don't mind that you don't trust me right now," said the woman as she had a pleading expression on her face. "I just need you to believe me. I'm begging you. Please stop them. For me."

Mikleo could only watch in surprise and was about to retort before he noticed the expression the woman was giving him. She was entrusting him with an important task to him and simply needed his help. Even though he was still a little skeptical, he decided to shrug it off for now and sighed, feeling like he should help her. He then smirked, "Don't worry. You have my word."

She smiled back and nodded before she let go of his hands and floated back a few feet, "It's time for you to go Mikleo." Before Mikleo could ask what that meant, a bright light appeared behind her which shone over the entire area. Although she noticed, she kept her gaze on her Mikleo, "When we meet again, you might remember more of me and I'll look forward to it."

Mikleo held a hand to his face as the light was getting brighter, reaching into his eyes. As he tried to block out the light, he frowned at the woman, "Could you at least tell me your name?" It occurred to him that he doesn't know this woman's name which would be very appreciated.

She kept a sweet smile on her face as the light enveloped the entire area, blinding Mikleo after she said one thing, "My name...is Ray." He couldn't see anything anymore as he was blinded.

Soon after, Mikleo opened his eyes and gasped in shock before he noticed that he was back in the garage, right where he was standing before. He was back where he was before.

As Mikleo narrowed his eyes, he raised his hand and looked at the bracelet that was holding it, "Ray…" There was one thing on his mind right now: why did that name sound really familiar to him?

---

Fanfiction OC Memo:

Entermate Archer Hawk
(RNK: 3, Winged-Beast, WIND, Xyz, ATK: 1800, DEF: 1500)
(2 Level 3 monsters)
Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can detach 1 Xyz Material from this card: Target 1 Magic/Trap Card your opponent controls; destroy it. If this card is destroyed: You can target 1 "Entermate" monster in your GY; add it to your hand.

Phantom Knights Corrode Scales (Trap Card) - Special Summon this card in Defense Position as a Normal Monster (Warrior/DARK/Level 3/ATK 300/DEF 300). (This card is NOT treated as a Trap.) If a DARK Xyz Monster you control would be destroyed (by battle or card effect), and this card is in your GY: You can banish this card from your GY; that monster isn't destroyed.

Phantom Knights Worn Axe
(RNK: 3, Warrior, DARK, Xyz, ATK: 2200, DEF: 1300)
(2 Level 3 monsters)
Monster Effect: If this card attacks a Defense Position monster, inflict piercing battle damage to your opponent. Once per turn, if this card destroys an opponent's monster by battle: You can detach 1 Xyz Material from this card; this card can attack once again in a row. If this Xyz Summoned card is destroyed by an opponent's card (battle or effect): You can Special Summon 1 "Phantom Knights" monster from your Deck but it has its effects negated.

Entermate Natural Mage
(LV: 6, Spellcaster, WIND, Fusion, ATK: 2400, DEF: 1900)
(2 "Entermate" monsters)
Monster Effect: Once per turn, if this card destroys a monster by battle: You can Special Summon 1 "Entermate" monster from your hand or GY. During each of your End Phases: Gain 500 LP for each "Entermate" monster you currently control.

Entermate Support Swan
(LV: 5, Winged-Beast, WATER, ATK: 2100, DEF: 1500)
Monster Effect: If you control an "Entermate" monster, you can Special Summon this card (from your hand) in Defense Position. Once per turn, during the Battle Phase, you can target 1 "Entermate" monster on the field; it can attack twice during each Battle Phase this turn. This card cannot attack during the turn you activate this effect.

Phantom Knights Slash Visor
(LV: 4, Warrior, DARK, ATK: 1400, DEF: 1800)
Monster Effect: If you control a DARK monster, you can Special Summon this card (from your hand). You can banish this card from your GY: Target 1 of your banished "Phantom" cards other than "Phantom Knights Slash Visor"; shuffle it into the Deck. You can only use this effect of "Phantom Knights Slash Visor" once per turn.

Phantom Knights Enchanted Scepter
(LV: 4, Warrior, DARK, ATK: 1600, DEF: 1000)
Monster Effect: Up to twice per turn: You can target 1 "Phantom Knights" monster on the field, then activate 1 of these effects.
• Increase its Level by 1.
• Reduce its Level by 1.
You can banish this card from your GY: Target 1 "Phantom Knights" monster you control that has a Level; all "Phantom Knights" monsters you currently control (that have a Level) become that monster's current Level until the end of the turn.

Phantom Knights Burst Cannon
(RNK: 5, Warrior, DARK, Xyz, ATK: 2600, DEF: 1700)
(2 Level 5 "Phantom Knights" monsters)
Monster Effect: Once per turn: You can detach 1 Xyz Material from this card, then target 1 monster your opponent controls; destroy it, and if you do, inflict damage to your opponent equal its original ATK. If this card is destroyed by an opponent's card (battle or effect): You can target 1 "Phantom Knights" Xyz Monster in your GY; Special Summon it, and if you do, attach this card as Xyz Material.

Gifting Magician
(LV: 1, Spellcaster, LIGHT, ATK: 0, DEF: 0)
Monster Effect: You can tribute this face-up card to draw a card. If you draw a Pendulum Monster Card by this effect, you can reveal it to draw one more card. You can only use the effect of "Gifting Magician" once per turn.

Treasurer Magician
(LV: 7, Spellcaster, DARK, ATK: 2000, DEF: 1700, PS: 0)
Pendulum Effect: If you do not have a "Magician" card in your other Pendulum Zone, this card's Pendulum Scale becomes 5 and it cannot activate its other effects. (This effect cannot be negated.) Each time you successfully Pendulum Summon a monster(s), draw a card for each monster you summoned. During either player's turn, you can destroy this card and a "Magician" card in your other Pendulum Zone; for the rest of the turn, Pendulum Monsters you control cannot be destroyed by battle or card effects, also you take no damage from battles involving them.
Monster Effect: When this card is Pendulum Summoned: You can draw 2 cards, then discard 1 card. You can only use this effect of "Treasurer Magician" once per turn.

Resonance Magician
(LV: 7, Spellcaster, LIGHT, Synchro, ATK: 2200, DEF: 2700)
(1 Tuner + 1 or more non-Tuner monsters)
Monster Effect: If this card is Synchro Summoned using a "Magician" monster as Material: You can target 1 monster your opponent controls; banish that target. This card gains 200 ATK for each face-up "Magician" Pendulum Monster in your Extra Deck. If this card is destroyed and sent to the Graveyard: You can target 1 "Magician" card in your Pendulum Zone; Special Summon that target.

Phantom Gate (Trap Card) - When your opponent's monster declares a direct attack: Negate the attack, and if you do, draw 1 card. When your opponent's monster declares a direct attack while this card is in your GY: You can banish this card; negate the attack, and if you do, gain LP equal to the ATK of the attacking monster. You cannot use this effect the same turn this card was sent to the GY.

Phantom Knights Fractured Knuckles
(LV: 2, Warrior, DARK, ATK: 700, DEF: 1300)
Monster Effect: When an opponent's monster declares a direct attack: You can Special Summon this card from your hand. Once per turn, this card cannot be destroyed by battle. You can banish this card from your GY: During your End Phase, add 1 "Phantom Knights" monster from your Deck to your hand. You can only use this effect of "Phantom Knights Fractured Knuckles" once per turn.

Phantom Knights Cursed Treasures (Magic Card) - Target 5 of your banished "Phantom" cards; shuffle them into the Deck and draw 2 cards. You can banish this card from your GY; target up to 3 of your banished "Phantom Knights" monsters and/or "Phantom" Magic/Trap Cards, except "Phantom Knights Cursed Treasures", and return them to the GY. You can only use each effect of "Phantom Knights Cursed Treasures" once per turn.

Phantom Knights Torn Mail
(LV: 4, Warrior, DARK, ATK: 1500, DEF: 1300)
Monster Effect: When this card is Normal Summoned: You can Special Summon 1 Level 4 or lower "Phantom Knights" monster from your hand or GY. You can banish this card from your GY; Special Summon 1 "Phantom Knights" monster from your Deck, but you cannot activate effects with that monster's name for the rest of the turn. You can only use this effect of "Phantom Knights Torn Mail" once per turn.

Power Vitalization (Magic Card) - During the Battle Phase this turn, if a monster you control attacks an opponent's monster, it gains ATK equal to half of the attack target, during damage calculation only. You can only activate one "Power Vitalization" per turn.

Phantom Chariot (Continuous Magic) - While you have a "Phantom Knights" card in your GY, any opponent's monster that would be destroyed and sent to the GY is banished instead. You can banish this card from your GY, then target 1 "Phantom Knights" monster in your GY; Special Summon it, but banish it when it leaves the field. You can only use this effect of "Phantom Chariot" once per turn.

Phantom Reincarnation (Magic Card) - Discard 1 card. Target 1 "Phantom" card that is banished or in your GY; add it to your hand. You can only activate one "Phantom Reincarnation" per turn.

Some OCG, TCG, Anime and/or Manga effects are changed for the sake of convenience

---

Not gonna lie, I kinda went nuts on this duel but hopefully I made it good and entertaining. I'm not sure if I did the clash between Odd-Eyes and Dark Rebellion well but I did the best I could.

As for those wondering why Yuya and Yuto didn't fuse, they were pretty much in control of themselves for most of the time. As long as they can get ahold of themselves and not be influenced, then they'll be fine. Plus, the dragons themselves (Odd-Eyes in particular) weren't fully conscious of their actions, so to speak. I could explain more but I don't want to give too much away nor can't explain it directly in the story. That's the gist of it at least. I think having Yuto being absorbed in the show early was a waste similar to having Ruri and Rin kidnapped early which is why I'm not going that route.

Anyway, I hope y'all like the chapter and I'll see you in the next one.

---

NEXT CHAPTER PREVIEW:

The Fiery Flames of Loyalty - After training and mastering his new deck, Bryan demanded a match against Yuya which he accepts. Yuya finds himself caught off guard with this new deck as Bryan continues a barrage of attacks, desperate to get his friend back.

---

Like or please review ~