Somewhere in the dark

Trueman was travelling in his dark shadow form and he was communicating via the dark mind connection he held with Darkness.

"Why did you stop me from continuing my attack on Judai Yuki, master?" He questioned

"Because, my plan is in motion. Your attack and subsequent capture of Chronos de Medici was merely the beginning and opening performance of the suffering for Judai to endure". Darkness said.

"What is your plan, master?" Trueman asked.

"It shall become more clear in time". Darkness said cryptically, "I have already gathered some new pawns and my most faithful servant is awaiting orders. I shall need him soon, and we need to make our influence known across the other dimensions".

Trueman felt a tinge of annoyance. He frankly considered himself to be Darkness's most unexpenable ally.

"I sense your aggravation Trueman". Darkness said cotemptuously, "You're indeed a valuable assailant but you are merely my slave, meant to do my bidding. My servant obeys me simply because he is like me...He is one of many true spawns that being about my very essence and existence".

"I understand master". Trueman said in a defeated voice.

"Now no more petty questions...everything is going well so far and revenge shall soon be mine". Nightshroud concluded and he ended the mental mind connection between himself and Trueman.

Trueman travelled onward searching for more dark people to posses in Darkness's name.

At Duel Academy arena

At Duel Academy, Samejima had arranged back meeting in the main dueling arenas, with Judai, Asuka and Ryo by his side. He looked very serious, angered at Chronos's defeat.

Everyone was gathered, teachers, and students alike. Tome, Ayukawa, Sorano, and Professor Sartyr came in, looking stern as they led students into the arena and stood waiting for the news Samejima, Ryo, Asuka and Judai had to reveal. Students were just as curious but were sure that something was wrong. Damon and Belowski were also there. Belowski looked as dreamy as ever, but he was looking around for someone, Judai sadly assumed it to be Chronos. Damon must have realized something was wrong as he rarely left the forest.

Samejima cleared his throat and spoke for all to hear.

"I have deep regret to have to inform all of you that our school has just experienced an assault, as just beforehand, predicted by Yuki Judai here". He gestured to Judai, whom was listening to both Samejima and a horrified Banner's retorts on Darkness's diabolical ways.

"In this assault came a tragedy. Chronos de Medici, Vice-Chancellor of Duel Academy has been defeated by a servant of the dark entity, Darkness for trying to protect our guests, Professor Tenjouin, Professor Marufuji, and myself, and he has been subsequently sent away to the World of Darkness". Samejima continued, looking down upon his staff who were all gaing from one to the other full of fear and fury for Chronos's downfall and the return of Darkness, and also to his students, many of which seemed mixed between fear and amusement.

"For those I see who seem unconvinced, you should know better and believe more freely." Samejima said solemnly, "This Academy has been ambushed by the World of Darkness before and Darkness is our worst enemy. Plus Judai-kun here has seen many unusual threats as he, Professor Tenjouin and Professor Marufuji will confirm and think also of the past. Say for instance, the battle at the Mirac mansion some years ago. I am sure your parents have informed you of this world newsflash, and the many miracles that took place after".

The students continued to eye Samejima, puzzling on whether or not to believe him, but this was irrelevant now to Samejima as he went on with the meeting.

"I wish to express my deepest concern for the Academy's security. Therefore I want all staff to keep their respective students under their care safe".

The teachers nodded in agreement, including Asuka, Ryo, and invisible to all but Judai, Banner.

"I shall go over plans of action with my staff once they have returned all students to their dorms". Samejima concluded.

Soon the students were filled out of the arena and put to bed.

At Samejima's Office

Judai, Ryo, and Asuka went with Samejima back to his office. Samejima looked at the cracked window that Chronos had hit after his defeat. He felt guilty for his downfall and also taking away his dream job just before. Judai, Asuka, and Ryo could see what was passing in his mind and remained respectfully silent until, Ayukawa, Sorano, Sartyr, and Tome-san appeared.

Samejima stood stiffly behind his desk looking intently at the people before him.

"We all understand the threat that approaches us". Samejima said. "Darkness is the darkest being around, and long thought gone. But we must now work together to fight off this threat and destroy Darkness permanently."

Everyone nodded.

"But I fear we alone are not sufficiently enough to fend him off or all of his slaves. Therefore, I ask the favors of Judai-kun, Asuka-kun, and Ryo-kun to gather their friends and allies to help us fight the dark forces to come". Samejima added.

Judai stared and realized that Samejima was asking him, Ryo, and Asuka to bring their close and dear friends into the battle ahead, to ask them to put themselves at risk.

Both the former Obelisk Blue elite's were also hesitant, but Asuka eventually said, "I shall contact my friends sir".

"Me too". Ryo added hesitantly.

Judai looked at them in suprise. Asuka and Ryo were willing to put their friends at risk, if there was one thing that Judai got scared of, it was endangering his friends. The last time he had willingly done so, he had been taken over by his Haou persona after his friends were sent to the stars and were amplified with negative emotions beforehand.

"Judai". Said a voice only he could hear.

It was Yubel.

"Judai, you'd need to gather your friends". She said insistently.

Judai was more paranoid. "I can't Yubel". He replied in his mind, "I can't bear my friends hatred because of me nearly killing them again...and who's to say my friends won't be sent to World of Darkness, just like Chronos-sensei."

Yubel sighed. "It was what unlocked the Haou and you had to learn to accept him". Her voice dwindled sadly for her love. "And since then, you never failed your friends again. I promise, you need your friends. They would never forgive themselves if they didn't help you now".

Judai knew what Yubel was saying was true.

"Judai, Yubel is right". Banner said, "You will need the light of friendship in the darkness ahead of you".

Judai smiled faintly and aloud he said, "I agree too, Principal. I will contact Sho, Kenzen, Chazz, and everyone I can!".

"Splendid". Samejima said proudly, "And now, Asuka-kun, I intend to do as I had predicted to do before, and that is to leave you in charge of the Academy."

Asuka, Ryo, Judai, and the others were confused.

"You're leaving us?" Asuka asked in bewilderment.

"Only temporarily". Samejima said reassuredly.

"Where are you going?", Ryo asked.

"I wish to inform Maximillion Peagasus of the events due to take place". Samejima explained. "I am certain he will be concerned. When the threat from the Dimensions appeared, he was very worried, and he always had high regards for Judai-kun and many others here. He may even be able to help rally our forces".

Everyone nodded in understanding.

Samejima walked around the desk and said, "I shall set off immediately by my helicopter. Judai-kun, my fellow teachers, I humbly wish you luck and I pray nothing will go wrong in my short absence".

Everyone wished him farewell and a safe journey particularly Tome-san, as Samejima departed the office to travel to Duelist Kingdom.

Contacting Allies

It was several hours after Samejima left. Asuka had taken her new position as temporary Principal of Duel Academy very seriously. She had given orders to all her fellow staff members. Each was to guard their respective dormitories and the students within. Tome-san took charge of the Slifer Red dorm, Sartyr guarded the Ra Yellow Dorm, Sorano and Ayukawa guarded the Obelisk Blue dorm, They all and Ryo had no issue obeying Asuka. Despite being only 23 she had strong head of authority and had everyone's best interest at heart.

Asuka herself had contacted her friend's Junko and Momoe. She informed to both Judai and Ryo they had agreed to come and help her out and also told them that her friends were both aspiring Duelist's since they graduated. Junko was devoted soley to dueling while Momoe was doing both dueling and working as a part time beauty parlour.

Then she contacted Fubuki. She explained the situation. Her face fell as she knew the terror her brother was now experiencing due to his past with Darkness. She affirmed that he two would come to help, as a mean to ensure his sister's safety and even inform the casting director and the production house to replace him with some other actor for his upcoming project..

Ryo contacted Yusuke and he also explained the situation. Just like Fubuki, Yusuke felt a bit traumatized knowing about Darkness's return and Chronos' defeat, due to his experience being Darkness's final host. Ryo affirmed to both Asuka and Judai that Yusuke is willing to help and take part in the battle because he wants to atone for his sins he comitted as Darkness 5 years ago and wanted to make amends so badly.

"Will you contact Edo"? Judai asked to Ryo.

"Not now, because his schedule is hectic, so I will tell him once his free". Ryo replied.

Both Judai and Asuka nodd since they feel its better to call the ones who are free from their hectic job.

"Kaiser shall I contact Sho on your behalf?" Judai asked hesitantly since Ryo is a bit protective towards him and he feels like he needs Ryo"s approval.

Ryo nodd his head which indicates he already trusts Sho's ability as a Duelist

Judai then went on to use the phone to contact Sho.

"Sho, I have bad news". He said.

"What is it, Aniki?" Sho asked worriedly.

"Darkness is back again, And so is Trueman. Chronos-sensei is sent to World of Darkness". Judai said frankly, because the longer it took him time to explain, the more precious time would be wasted before the allies came to help against Darkness, and there was no telling when he and Trueman would strike again.

Sho had paused after those few words, he was clearly terrified.

"Sho". Judai said sharply, "I need your help. We need you to come here to Duel Academy, to help us fight against Darkness, should his allies ambush the place again".

Sho paused again but it didn't last as long as the first time he replied, "I will help, Aniki. Shall I contact Chazz and Kenzen-kun?"

"Yeah, please Sho". Judai replied, and after giving instructions to await an Academy helicopter after gathering Chazz and Kenzen, Judai hung up and made to contact few other friends.

Asuka and Ryo listened closely as Judai got the support of Austin O'Brien. His voice boomed through the earpiece at Judai's head.

"I am on my way Judai"

After that, Judai contacted his best friend Johan Anderson.

"Oh, alright there, Judai! How are you?". Johan asked enthusiasticlly,

Judai, as happy as he was to hear from Johan again, remained grave.

"Not too great, Johan, that's why I'm calling you. I need your help".

And just like the others, Judai told Johan about Chronos, the attack of Trueman and Darkness. Johan was now shocked.

"So Chronos-sensei is gone?" He asked.

"Yes and we are gathering fighters to see that Darkness never takes anyone else again". Judai said. "Can I count on you to help Johan?"

It was extra pressure on Judai to ask Johan's help, as it was Johan who had the worst ordeal in the Dimension, possessed and kidnapped by Yubel.

"I will come Judai, My Crystal Beast pals are itching to shine their rainbow over Darkness!" Johan said determinedly

"Thanks, Johan I will see both soon". Judai hung up again and thought of who else to contact.

Then it hit him and Asuka at the same time.

"Rei Satome". They said to each other.

Judai called her number and Rei soon answered.

"Hello?" She said

"Hi, Rei". Judai said, "We need you to come to Duel Academy".

Once more, Judai told his story and Rei listened, though there was some distinctive small gasps from the parts that consists of Chronos and Darkness.

"So". Judai concluded, "I am asking our friends to come and help fight against Darkness once more. I am now asking you. Will you come and help us?"

There was a pause and Rei reluctantly said, "No".

Judai's jaw dropped. He never expected Rei to refuse to help protect Duel Academy.

"I am sorry Judai-sama". Rei said solemnly, "I have just started to find happiness in my life outside of work and dueling and I really don't want to risk losing it so soon, not now".

"But...Rei". Judai said quietly, "Without your help, we could fail... and your happiness will be doomed anyway".

Rei was silent for a moment then she spoke once more.

"If that is true", she replied and this time sounded final, "Then I will spend these last days with the happiness I have found in them...not doing sentry duty at Academy I have suffered so much fear and pain at".

Judai could sense that Rei was not going to be convinced so he murmered in a voice filled with disappointment, despite his efforts to hide it, "I understand Rei. I hope we can protect your happiness, whatever form it is, and if it's true we might fail, I hope you enjoy to the last".

"And I hope you do succeed". Rei replied and Judai had a feeling there were tears on her face as she spoke, "Because I have faith in all of you".

Another moment passed in mournful silence and without a word they respectfully hung up Asuka and Ryo went to Judai and the new Principal of Duel Academy patted his shoulder.

"It was always their choice Judai". Asuka said.

"Honestly I would be suprised if everyone agreed to come". Ryo added.

In Judai's mind, Yubel was reacting to the news in the exact opposite way as Asuka and Ryo.

"Traitorous little brat". She said viciously.

"No..." Judai replied on his head, "She is protective of whoever it is that's making her happy. She wants to make that person happy too...She's not protecting herself, she's protecting the one she makes happy from having a stressful time worrying for her safety".

Judai rose up from his seat and with Ryo and Asuka looked out the damaged window towards the night sky, knowing that soon it would be filled with helicopters carrying faces from long ago.

Reuinting with Old friends

It was dawn the following morning. Judai, Asuka, and Ryo hadn't slept a wink. They were guarding the main building of the Academy and patiently waiting for their friends to arrive. They were outdoors and still watching the red sky as the morning sun shone dimly on the horizon reflecting sparkles across the wavy sea.

Soon they saw specks in the sky and the specks carried a sound of buzzing. Helicopters were arriving. The trio ran down to the harbour to welcome the landing party.

All but one of the helicopters had landed by now. Out of the first helicopter came Sho and Kenzen, but Chazz wasn't there.

"Hi there, Judai-aniki!" Kenzen called and he bearhugged Judai.

"Hi, Kenzen". Judai choked.

Then he turned to Sho. "Where's Chazz?"

"I couldn't get hold of him". Sho replied. "Must be busy".

Judai sighed. Both Chazz and Rei were out of action.

Sho then ran to hug Ryo, "I miss you alot Ni-san, its been almost two months".

"Same here" Ryo returned the hug with a affectionate smile and then warned him cautiously, "Make sure you take care of yourself Sho, because you know this battle is going to be a tough one." Sho has grown a lot taller after graduating and his height has now reached till his brothers neck while before when he was a teenager his height was till his brothers waist..

Sho nodd with a determined look.

Then the next friends arrived. From one helicopter came Asuka's friends, Junko and Momoe. They looked rather despondent but delighted to see their friend again and they gave her a friendly hug, which were responded with deep relief and joy.

"So glad you two are here". She said and was wondering if one of the last two helicopters had her brother inside.

The third helicopter had O'Brien and Johan in it. Johan high fived Judai and O'Brien gave him a stern and respectful salute.

"Good to be here again, aibou". Johan said.

"If only it were in more cheerful circumstances". O'Brien added grievously.

Judai smiled gravely and they all stood waiting as the final helicopter arrived and landed alongside the others. Out of it came Fubuki and Yusuke and Judai could see the latter also have Honest by his side and they both looked gracious and willing to protect all there with them.

Both Fubuki and Yusuke gave Ryo a friendly hug, each were responded with deep relief and joy.

"It's good to see two again and thanks for coming" Ryo said and then Fubuki once again hugged him and Yusuke tightly in a group hug, glad to reunite with Ryo once again and eager to work with him and Yusuke as a team.

Fubuki then went to embraced his sister tightly, relieved that she was safe. Yusuke shook hands with Judai gently.

"Its good to see you again, Judai". Yusuke and Honest greeted in unison.

"Same here". Judai replied happily.

After all the reunions were completed, Asuka made her move.

"Everyone". Asuka said authoritatively, "We all know why we are here; to protect Duel Academy our alma matter from Darkness and the World of Darkness. Until Principal Samejima returns, I have been appointed as Principal, and Judai and Ryo are the frontman of our allies force. We will all protect certain areas of the Academy and we will keep in touch to inform each other if we see anything dangerous at hand".

Judai smiled at her and using it to command for the good side.

Everyone nodded to Asuka obediently and Judai placed out his fist.

"Who's with us? Who here is going to help wipe out Darkness, protect Duel Academy and never forget the bonds of friendship in battle?"

Sho placed his hand over Judai's fist. "I am".

Johan followed suit, "Me too".

Then Asuka, then Kenzen and so on. Everyone including Yubel, Banner and the other Duel spirits had their hands together in friendship, ready to battle Darkness once more.

As the sun fully broadened over the sky, which was turning clear blue, something else was specking in the horizon. But it wasn't a helicopter and it certainly wasn't a star...

Notes

The gang are all reunited once again for action including O'Brien and Johan. I know a certain few people who have hoped to see them again!

But what is the speck in the sky? Who is Darkness'a loyal ally? And what is the next threat he intend to throw?