Yu-Gi-Oh! : Dragon Knight Reborn!
Created by: DragonKnight15
Hello to all! This is Episode 68 of the last arc of Volume 5: The True Dragon Knight
Intro: The Earth... is a great place where humanity and all other creatures live and learn to evolve little by little, but this great world has Darkness in it too. Evil beings who wish to conquer this world and everyone.
Only one being stood against them to show everyone the power of light and hope, but this great mythical dragon wasn't able to stop them. He gave his powers and hope to a human that was known by his name, the Dragon Knight!
Before this hero also met his end, he gave the legendary Dragon Sword and his hopes and dreams to the next knight, his youngest son who is destined to become a legend by the sides of his comrades and his love. This hero... is the Dragon Knight of Light!
(OPENING 4: Alones by Aqua Timez from Bleach)
Volume 5: Episode 68: The Vanishing Strawberry! Stand back up again, Yugi!
In the previous episode of DKR:
Yugi and Ichigo went to confront the ones they sensed to see the countless dead bodies. The three who did this were Arrancars but not any ordinary Arrancars as 2 of them were villains Yugi fought in the past: Yami Marik and Maximilian. The two, resurrected as Arrancars who are stronger than the Espada, declared their revenge towards Yugi who had no choice but to fight them.
Going all out from the start with Dragon Blade Mode, Yugi fought the two but was losing to his dislike. The situation was only worsened when the two villains revealed this was all part of Aizen's plan, gaining Yugi's DNA from past battles and the energy he had used in the past to make their bodies and abilities otherworldly, almost dubbing them Dragon Knight Killers.
More than irritated, Yugi unleashed Dragonaun Tengoku and his attack nearly damaged the two until the last Arrancar, a masked wearing one, not only deflected Yugi's attack with ease but damaged Yugi so badly that it forced Ichigo to get involved. Regardless, the Arrancars revealed they only came to get her. Shocked and angrier, Ichigo transformed into her Mew form then Evolution form but she wasn't enough till the Inner Tiger's power aura state reappeared and gave her some edges.
But just then Kojan, who returned to face Yugi, arrived to help Yugi and Ichigo instead, especially after hearing of what these Arrancars are made out of. However, the masked Arrancar smacked Kojan aside and took Ichigo. Yugi, enraged, regenerated his damage and entered a fourth tail of his Yin-Yang Dragon form. He tried to save Ichigo but a Menos Grande appeared and used its Negación ability to trap the others and take them to Hueco Mundo. Yugi tried to save Ichigo with the best of his abilities but none of his attacks worked. Ichigo pleaded to him to stop, telling him- assuring he would save her. Not sure that he can, Ichigo handed him her hair ribbons, believing in Yugi.
Their moment was ruined by the masked Arrancar slashing Yugi as they disappeared and Yugi passed out, saved by Kojan and found by the others.
What will happen next?
And now the conclusion... days since the previous episode:
It's been days, almost a week, now that Yugi has been out of commission, recovering from his vicious loss against Aizen's forces… and naturally Ichigo being kidnapped by them. Her parents have been looking for her since she never came home. She never told them she would leave to see Yugi, likely mad about the move, so they have no idea where she is. They even approach the others and Jonouchi lied how he hated to leave her home so she likely ran off.
That might have done more bad than good as now Ichigo's parents are getting the police involved in the search to find their daughter and once more no luck.
Jonouchi and Honda arrive at school where the others are waiting outside the school premise with Bakura actually greeting them. ''Good morning. Sorry, everyone is just well-
"I know. Thanks Bakura.'' The darkened color blond head tells him as he faces the group. Ruby simply groans, eyeing Usagi who's sobbing heavily. She hasn't greatly worried for her cousin, trying to be strong but she's still scared. The others feel the same way, concerned how Ichigo is handling herself.
''So that lie we told Ichigo's parents that Ichigo ran away about the idea of leaving here might be getting out of hand?'' Ed speaks up to Jonouchi, having seen Ichigo's mother sobbing more worry for her daughter than Usagi. Alicia nods as the other Mew Mews are just as worried for their leader, even Mint who's pretending nothing is wrong.
Jonouchi sighs as he reminds them. ''Okay, then let's tell them the truth that a bunch of undead-not-dead freaks who work under some super strong former soul slayer jackass.''
The group is silent as Hiroto nods firmly, agreeing that they had no choice but to go along with that lie.
''… Good point?'' Ryan simply utters, sounding questionable how right but off putting it feels.
They tried to get help but the only ones who could was Soul Society. Kurosaki already approaches and asks for their help but they refuse as they fear this is part of Aizen's plan to attack the human world and get the Soul Key-whatever for his big endgame.
They are stomped as Usagi grabs onto Jonouchi and starts begging him, sobbing as she shakes the poor dirty colored blond headed. ''WE NEED TO SAVE COUSIN ICHIGO-CHAN NOW, PLEASE!''
The others watch, feeling bad while Jonouchi groans, his eyes spinning in a daze.
''We need to do something.'' Alicia suggests, feeling that if no one will help them, they need to do it on their terms. Judai, having been the most calm, has been reflecting on his past mistakes. After all, this event is similar to when Johan had been taken along with Yubel in the other Dimensions and how his actions to find him cost the lives of everyone else. Yugi might have made up his mind and gotten to know him; he'll want to do things alone rather than to risk the lives of everyone else.
Haruto is the same, not going to argue or complain but he'll follow Yugi regardless of his thoughts.
''The decision is up to Yugi.'' Hiroto then declares to Edward's protest. ''You can't be serious.''
''Honda is right. It is up to Yugi how he wants to approach it.'' Jonouchi, still feeling, tells the group knowing this is Yugi's choice. Usagi sniffs deeply, nodding as she proclaims. ''Well then we'll wait when he says we're going to save Cousin Ichigo-chan.''
''Or Yugi-san goes alone.'' Judai then speaks up. Alicia startles, eyeing him and asks. ''Why would you say that?''
He looks at her and answers, rather serious yet sad. ''Because it's something I would than risk the lives of my friends again.''
''Judai…'' Alicia mutters, concerned about Judai's past. Danny told her a bit about Judai that he gathered up but not enough.
''So we wait till-'' Ed begins to ask if they'll actually wait till Yugi recovers only to get interrupted by a familiar voice. ''Morning, everyone…''
The group startles and turns to see Yugi approaching them. His forehead is wrapped in bandages as well as most of his body underneath his clothes. He still looks banged up but it doesn't seem to bother him.
''Yugi!'' The whole group utters in dismay, not thinking he'll return while still looking like he needs to recover.
''W-what are you doing here?'' Hiroto asks, thinking his bones still need time to recover. Yugi just smiles as he tells them. ''I came to deliver my homework and then…''
His words trail away as he just walks inside the school. The others watch with nearly all of them sure what the last part of his sentence would have been: Save Ichigo.
Yugi finds Ichigo's father in his office after handing his homework to his professor and asks him permission to leave. This startles Shintaro, questioning him. ''You're going to find my Ichigo?''
The tricolor head nods as he theorizes. ''I think I know where she left and she's doing all of this for me. It's my fault and I need to make things right.''
Shintaro looks at him, able to tell he looks sad for all of this and he understands him.
''… I see…'' He begins to say to the young man before he says, trying to laugh with his arms crossed. ''Haha… You care a lot for my daughter.''
He's not going to lie that he cares a lot for his daughter, sometimes more protective for who she's with. It's how he felt about Masaya. The boy might have been like any other boy who wants a girlfriend or does not care about protecting her. The boy proved him wrong and he will admit it.
''That kid Masaya did too but well, I had to be serious about him.'' Shintaro admits to him, trying to not chuckle that it did amuse him terrorizing him a bit. Yugi can imagine how hard it was for Masaya before he asks him. ''So why not with me?''
Shintaro blinks, eyeing Yugi and just smiles, admitting the truth. ''Why? Because you're Takao's son. Because you're my best friend's son and someone I could always count on.''
Yugi stares surprised before he slowly forms a smile, now asking him. ''My father was something else right?''
''The greatest man I ever met!'' Shintaro declares with a smile. That man has always been as good as strong-headed on top of that. It's how he saw Yugi plus his school reports on him and not just on his grades. He's aware how he's been bullied and it has never stopped him from going to school. In fact, he made friends with those who bullied him and the three with Anzu became a rather interesting group. Sure, they've gotten themselves in more trouble but have done more good too, just like his old friend would.
''That's why I had nothing against you. You remind me a lot of him.'' Shintaro tells him, trying to sound happy just thinking of him. Yugi stares at the older man and can't help but smile… and yet it also upsets him that he can be as great of a person as his parents.
''… Thank you.'' Yugi begins to say somber before he then says, concerned to live up to his father's memory. ''Sometimes, I don't think I'm like my father.''
''Well why should you be? Being yourself is who you are.'' Shintaro, however, declares, reminded of something his close friend would tell him. Yugi just smiles softly, nodding.
Shintaro then becomes sad, thinking of his Ichigo and reminded of the little girl he raised and loved deeply with his wonderful wife. He eyes the young man before him and asks- begs of him with a bow. ''Bring her back home, please.''
Yugi looks at him with a stare, almost like telling him without words that he will. He turns back and walks out from his office, determined to save her. Shintaro watches him leave and for a moment, sees Shintaro through him. He slowly smiles again, able to believe in him.
The others watch in the hallway as Yugi approaches them, staring at them before walking past them. Jonouchi can tell Yugi is off to save Ichigo. He frowns, thinking back to what Honda asked about their involvement in Yugi's journey as a Dragon Knight and this might be the crossline if he should walk past it… and he will. He owes it to him, no, it's because he's a brother to him.
''Yugi! I-'' Jonouchi begins to call out to Yugi until he stops as does Yugi; both staring at Erika standing in front of the tricolor head.
''Erika.'' Ryan utters, worrying as he can imagine why she's here like this. Other than Usagi, Erika feels responsible for what has happened to her dear friend. She's been blaming herself for not fully seeing that vision of the future and ignores it till it's too late. It hit her really hard and he can't blame her; Erika cares deeply for her closest friend.
Yugi stares at the silent black headed girl before she finally questions him. ''… Will you go to save Ichigo?''
''… I have to do one thing before-'' Yugi begins to answer her only for Erika to clench her fists and yells out enraged that her black eyes turned bright orange of the Inner Scorpion. ''WHAT IS ONE THING COMPARE TO ICHIGO!''
Yugi looks at her, frowning upsetly. Erika scowls out of her helplessness; frustrated mainly towards herself. She knows he will go and save Ichigo and she wishes to come too, asking him. ''If it's about asking for help then I'll come with you and-''
''No.'' Erika soon staggers; her eyes revert back as Yugi stares firm yet calmly towards her. He then explains himself to not just her but also the others. ''Ichigo-kun is in a dangerous place and I have to think about what my approach will be. Going with all of you would put you all in danger and I won't do it. I can't.''
The group startles as does Erika, except Judai who figured as much. Bakura also frowns, imagining the enemies in the other world will be too much or too powerful for any of them.
Erika looks down, actually freaking out before she lets out a shout at him while looking back at him.. ''ICHIGO IS MY DEAREST FRIEND! You have to understand that we need to save her, no matter what the-''
Yugi frowns, about to protest by informing her of the dangerous Arrancars they will face but before he can, a new voice speaks up. ''Erika-san, Yugi is more concerned of the danger going in there without a clear head.''
The group blinks except Yugi, Jonouchi, Hiroto and Bakura startle heavily. The tricolor head walks around Erika who also turns around, facing towards Anzu Mazaki. The brunette haired girl looks more mature as her hair looks slightly different with a strain of her front hair pointing to the left. Jonouchi and Hiroto would want to whistle how much hotter she looks.
''Anzu?!'' Yugi utters, blushing red, utterly happy to see her… yet he can't remain like this due to Ichigo.
Alicia, Usagi, Ruby, Ryan and Haruto stare at the girl that even Haruto finds her rather cuter.
''Took your time showing up.'' Jonouchi complains which causes Anzu to shoot him a look with her blue eyes. Jonouchi laughs nervously as the others eye him and he explains himself. ''Momomiya suggested and we agreed.''
Ed nods, figuring as much too. Yugi overhears that, making sense too but he begins to protest, questionable. ''Is that why you're here? What about-''
''Just finish my classes.'' Anzu informs him with a small smile before becoming determined, aware of the situation. ''And helping a dear friend.''
Yugi stares at her silently but still blushing. Anzu turns to Erika and asks her. "Erika-san, trust in Yugi, please.''
Erika looks at her before she frowns, not wishing to be mean but it hurts her so much not able to protect Ichigo.
''Sorry, I-'' She begins to apologize but Anzu just smiles softly, telling him. ''He knows.''
She now turns to Yugi and tells him. ''And we should talk.''
Yugi nods as he walks up in the stairway. The others did not follow, knowing this is a private conversation.
Yugi and Anzu are up on the rooftop, the two looking down below them as they grip on the fence. They were silent, just enjoying the breeze of the wind. Atem watches them in spirit form, crossing his arms but smiling.
''So how's it been everything?'' Yugi begins to ask her.
It's been months since Anzu left to the dancing school in the United States; it was in New York and temporarily. It was thanks to Ichigo, through Mint's connections and Anzu's skills that allowed her into that school to begin with. He thought she'll be there a little longer… but Yugi is slightly happy to see her. This would have been better if Ichigo wasn't kidnapped.
Anzu eyes him and smiles, responding. ''Oh you know, I wanted to come back home to finish my graduation and see you all.''
She's had fun learning so much and improving her skills as a dancer. She feels like she will become a great dancer though she missed her home and Ichigo called her last week.
''In fact, I was in talk with Ichigo about a surprise party but then well, Jonouchi called and told me what happened.'' Anzu explains herself, causing Yugi to chuckle. He would have liked it. The brunette smiles as she then asks him, looking sad. ''You're going to go save her alone, are you?''
Yugi does not answer her, looking down with a look of determination. Anzu just smiles softly; he hasn't changed much as she tells him. ''Look, I'm not going to disagree with you. You kept the secret of the Dragon Knight from us to protect us. But are you really okay with this?''
Simply nodding, the tricolor head tells her of everyone in pain. ''I have to save her. Her family misses her, Erika misses her, the other Mew Mews miss her, her friends miss her…''
He then frowns, admitting to her. ''And I miss her too.''
Anzu stares at him and smiles, glad he hasn't changed.
''Then are you scared to enter an enemy base.'' She asks him but Yugi protests. ''No…''
Anzu hums, thinking as she rubs her chin and then guesses. ''Scared you might not be strong enough.''
Yugi doesn't answer her, looking down. The brunette sighs smiling as she encourages him. ''I know this won't stop you. You would die for someone dear to you. Ask Jonouchi and me when Marik brainwashed us the first time.''
Yugi oddly chuckles, admitting that she's not wrong. She smiles and feels like he has to ask him something and this might be her only chance.
''I need to say something.'' Anzu begins to ask him. Yugi looks at her and nods. She looks away, embarrassed to bring this up but does. ''I didn't break up with you because you wanted to become strong… I broke up because I thought I would hold you back or well… I thought you would become like Atem.''
Yugi freezes up as does Atem, both blushing bright red as they hear laughs from Yin-Yang Dragon's voice. The tricolor head gives her a ''Seriously'' look and Anzu, blushes red, nods. She did find him amazing to see him grow and it caused her to fear the idea that he would become like Atem and then her feelings for him would change and she felt… honestly, she felt scared. She didn't want to lose him too and… she made the choice. Give them time and space to relax and then come back but… she waited too long and when Yugi saw Ichigo the first time; she saw that spark that Yugi had for her. She smiled softly then, letting things play its course and see if maybe this girl would be right for him and she hasn't let him down.
''I was an idiot to feel like that. But, at the least you met someone who saw you as you, not afraid to see you grow.'' Anzu admits, grateful it was Ichigo rather than Rebecca or that other one aww… She snaps out and continues saying. ''Ichigo… is really special. I think only she understands how you feel better than anyone.''
The tricolor head pulls out Ichigo's red ribbons, staring at them and squeezes them, vowing he would save her.
''… She is.'' Yugi smiles sadly, also admitting to her. Anzu smiles as she approaches him and holds his hands with hers.
''Yugi, save her.'' Anzu asks her as Yugi looks at her eyes and nods. "I will.''
The two look at each other's eyes, recalling their romantic times but also about their friendship too. He missed her; she also knew how to get him thinking.
''I'm happy you're back, Anzu.'' Yugi expresses happiness. Anzu smiles back, also feeling the same. ''I'm happy to be back too.''
Anzu then claps her hands and expresses happiness. ''Also Jonouchi and Hiroto said you met Red Riding Hood and a magician. I want to meet them and all the others too!''
Yugi can't help but smile, advising her. ''Go for it.''
She smiles, watching as Yugi turns his back and starts walking. She then asks him with a concerned face. ''… Come back safe, the both of you.''
Yugi, not turning around, lifts his right hand and gives him a thumb up. He leaps off, vanishing with Dragon Speed Burst.
Anzu stands there, alone, still frowning as she can't help but let him go do this alone. She nods, her heart pounding at the idea she has but she has to try! She rushes back downstairs to meet the others and discuss her plan.
What is Anzu's plan and is Yugi ready to save Ichigo?
Commercial Break:
Anzu: Yugi, never forget that our bonds will always be in your heart. Now save Ichigo-chan!
Yugi: I will, Anzu. And I will not fail you either!
Yugi goes home first, saying his goodbyes to his grandfather and older sister. He even packs a bag of stuff to at least eat and recover his strengths. Hopefully that will be enough. He also asks them to watch over Riolu and Skitty who stayed with him. He promises the two Pokémons he will return, not going to fail.
With that, Yugi walks out of the Kame Shop but before he dashes off, Jenny chases after him and calls him out. ''Yugi! I… I just… I-''
''Don't stop me, Nee-san.'' Yugi, not turning his back, asks her kindly. He knows she doesn't want him to go but he has to. If he doesn't then Ichigo is lost to them. Jenny actually thinks the same too, feeling that this Aizen will not release Ichigo unless Yugi walks over his trap. For once, she has to let him try.
''I wasn't going to.'' She tells him but she bites her lips and utters saddeningly. ''… I just don't want to lose you.''
Yugi widens his eyes, turns around and shakes his head and vows to her. ''Then I promise I will come back home with Ichigo-kun, safe and sound!''
Jenny stares at him and nods silently. Yugi smiles as he turns around and dashes off with Dragon Speed Burst.
"… Be safe, little brother.'' Jenny begs to herself, hoping he does bring her back. And yet… she can't help but let things play out like this. She too should do something.
As Jenny decides to head out to make a call, both Riolu and Skitty sneak out and chase after Yugi.
Yugi moves through the streets, nearly unnoticed by anyone to see the blur. He runs quickly in small bursts, recovering his strengths to use Burst Limit later. Right now, he needs to get to Karakura and to the one man who can take him to where Aizen is.
''Are you sure about this?'' Atem asks his partner telepathically with Yugi replying back, more than certain. ''Yep. Urahara-kun might have the means to take me to the world of the Hollows and then get Ichigo-kun out of there.''
The Pharaoh has to agree. Urahara Kisuke is not part of Soul Society and the man has his own personal grudge towards Aizen. They can count on him to-
''But how do you plan to fight the Arrancars, especially the ones that have a portion of your Dragon Knight's powers?'' Yugi widens his eyes as a voice speaks next to him as he runs like a blur. He turns towards his side and he's left stunned. It is Shadow Knight, actually floating beside him.
''Y-You?!'' The tricolor head utters in surprise, stopping on his track and backing away fast. The two are alone and now standing on top of a rooftop, still within Domino.
Yugi looks at the masked knight, shocked that he just appeared out of thin air. Not even his ability to read aura didn't warn him of-
Yugi pauses, becoming more shocked as he questions him, realizing what he said. ''Y-You read my mind just now.''
''Let's just say I'm good at reading minds.'' Shadow Knight simply tells him calmly, his arms down over his trench coat. Yugi frowns, staring at him before he ultimately asks him. ''Are you going to stop me, Shadow Knight-kun?''
''… Yes, and we both know why.'' Silent at first, Shadow Knight answers him firmly and honestly. ''You cannot save Ichigo Momomiya in your current state.''
Yugi frowns while still gazing seriously. He can't think twice about not saving Ichigo; she's counting on him.
Feeling his aura, Shadow Knight shakes his head as he tells him. ''Even by chance you do save her and you two return, Kojan will make his move and you will die by his sword. Saving her would mean nothing then.''
Yugi staggers by his statement. Kojan might… but…
''But I will give you a chance to prove me wrong.'' The masked knight then announces, getting Yugi's attention as he tells him. ''Fight me, Yugi.''
Yugi is startled heavily. Why would he challenge him now of all times?
''If you land a serious blow on me, I will let you go.'' Shadow Knight informs him, lifting up his left hand. ''But if you lose to me, you must accept my conditions.''
The tricolor head gazes, not interested to fight him especially-
''And yes, time is valuable but time is on my side. So if you run, I will stand in your way.'' Yugi startles again by Shadow Knight interrupting him again, almost taunting that he can stop him. ''So… What do you say?''
Yugi narrows towards him firmly, debating mentally in what he should do… but if he'll stand in his way, he does not have any choice.
''Partner…'' Atem utters telepathically towards Yugi, wondering if he'll go through with this. Breathing deeply, Yugi makes up his mind, reaching his right hand and gripping on the hilt of his Dragon Sword.
''Dragon of the Heavens…'' Yugi begins to chant as Shadow Knight stares, putting his arm down to observe. ''Roar across the boundaries of reality and fantasy, and grant me the blade that creates impossibilities!''
''BURST LIMIT!'' Yugi shouts loudly, his eyes glowing red, as he transforms and enters his Burst Limit form. He swings the Dragon Blade, unleashing strong swings as he declares. ''The Power of our Friendship, the Dragon Blade!''
Shadow Knight observes calmly, telling himself mentally. ''Already using his trump card, huh?''
Depending on the situation, it would be a waste to use the trump card now but in this case; Yugi wishes to win badly. Shadow Knight can't help but chuckle, responding to this. ''That's a good answer.''
Yugi glares firmly, still recalling the last words Ichigo asked of him. ''You will save me but don't do it yet until you keep that promise Nya.''
Frowning seriously that she's counting on him, he comes dashing forward at Shadow Knight. The masked knight does not move, not even an inch. Hesitating for a moment, Yugi snaps out and comes swinging with his blade only for the blade to hit through the masked knight but literally through him. His body wavers around before vanishing, revealing to be some kind of illusion or afterimage.
Yugi barely turns as Shadow Knight is right behind him, just staring with his arms under his coat. He can't believe he did not feel him, no aura or anything.
''He's fast!'' He tells himself mentally, twirling around fast to swing his sword at him again but once more his blade cuts through shadows to his surprise. Yugi looks around fast and once more Shadow Knight reappears behind him, not doing anything like before. Yugi twirls, delivering a palm strike this time but his hand hits nothing but air as his body dissolves like it never existed.
He turns around and Shadow Knight is again behind him, just staring at him. Grunting, Yugi forms Dragon Clones as two of the clones slashes him only for him to dissolve once more. All the clones turn to look at the real one's back, realizing he's moving to his back he never appears… until one of them spots the masked knight behind one of the Dragon Clones.
This shocks Yugi and his clones as they continue assaulting him but none of their attacks physically touch him as he reappears on another clone's back. Yugi grunts as he forcefully vanishes his clones, realizing something is off about him. The way Shadow Knight stands straight without moving a single movement can't be speed; it's something else.
''No, he's moving still and yet…'' Yugi starts theorizing mentally before he soon comes up with a conclusion, shocking him. ''Teleportation?''
Realizing that now, Yugi comes charging at Shadow Knight as he grips on his Dragon Blade, engulfed in purple dragon flames.
''DRAGONAUN BLADE SLASH!'' He shouts, swinging his blade vertical right through the seemingly vulnerable Shadow Knight but like all the other times, his blade goes through him as his body vanishes. However, Yugi places his left hand's index and middle fingers over his head and focuses, vanishing. He teleports instantly right in front of Shadow Knight, having manifested where Yugi was from behind. Smirking, Yugi swings his blade but the enhanced Dragon Blade is stopped by Shadow Knight's blade. It looks like a rather empty dark blade, smaller than the Dragon Blade and distorted like it isn't real.
Yugi growls, pushing his blade forward but Shadow Knight, not even trying, holds his guard against Yugi's attack, not even struggling.
''The way you swing your sword is swift and precise, countering my technique with that technique was the key to nearly hitting me. Not bad.'' Shadow Knight proclaims, praising the young Dragon Knight's quick thinking and skills.
Groaning, Yugi extends his left arm and shouts, swinging his fist, engulfed in energy.
''DRAGONAUN GEYSER!'' He roars, pushing the sword clash away as he tries to slam his attack at Shadow Knight's chest but he holds up his free hand and forms a shadow-like barrier, blocking the attack. Yugi expects much as he brute forces through the barrier but Shadow Knight vanishes to his shock.
''You must be questioning if I'm using a special technique to dodge your aura senses and reflexes. You're not.'' Yugi widens, looking up to see Shadow Knight above him, saying those words. Growling, taking aim with his blade, Yugi roars loudly. ''DRAGONAUN BURNING!''
He fires a burst of purple flames from the tip of his blade, blasting it at Shadow Knight but instead of blocking or vanishing; he slashes the flames with his sword, splitting the flames in half.
''It's not that your aura is failing you. On the contrary, it's my power that is overcoming yours.'' Shadow Knight announces to Yugi's annoyance, breathing as he holds up his left hand. Swirls of wind wrap around the palm of his hand, growing wider by the second, as he shouts loudly. ''DRAGON ART: VORTEX CANNON!''
He fires a burst of wind like a cannon blast right at Shadow Knight but holds up his hand and repels it with a similar attack but shadow-like, canceling both attacks but mainly the masked knight's attack overpowering Yugi's.
Yugi, though, uses that as he appears on his side with Yin-Yang Dash and swings a slash only for multiple shadow-like tendrils coming out from not just Shadow Knight's shadow but even Yugi's stops his attack. This horrifies Yugi as Shadow Knight turns around calmly and tells him. ''The reason why I'm called Shadow Knight is by my name alone. I am the knight of shadows themselves. Meaning, the shadows will always move faster than the light, because the shadows are both there and not there.''
The tricolor head just sweats with a concerning face, struggling to break free but can barely budge his blade out of the shadow tendrils. Shadow Knight lets out a chuckling, waving his right hand wrist as the shadows dissolve. Yugi staggers, pulling back and holding forward his Dragon Blade at Shadow Knight.
''… Are you not done yet?'' The masked knight questions him, almost taunting him to keep fighting.
Groaning, Yugi focuses as multiple Dragon Clones surround Shadow Knight, each one coming at him with a sword swing.
''Then…'' Uttering calmly, Shadow Knight holds forward his blade and vanishes instantly. He's actually moving with such speed, not of light but of shadows. He swirls and dashes through each of the Dragon Clones until he appears behind Yugi, shocking him as his clones explode all at once. Yugi engages him, clashing blades against Shadow Knight. He scoffs as he vanishes and Yugi follows in pursuit. The two clash around, moving too fast for any to see the fight. And yet, Yugi is being overpowered by Shadow Knight precise swings, countering each one of Yugi's swings. Yugi tries to be more aggressive, swinging wider and harder and yet Shadow Knight parries and deflects them one after the other until he swings a downward swing and slams Yugi back, nearly knocking him off the edge of the roof. He tries to hold his balance only for Shadow Knight to appear from behind, kicking Yugi hard and before the tricolor head can react as he's launched; his chest is suddenly stabbed through by Shadow Knight's blade by the back.
Oddly smirking, Yugi explodes as more Dragon Clones surround him again. Shadow Knight swings his sword but the clones repel and counter his swings, managing to do so with teamwork. The masked knight scoffs as he pulls back and dashes forward, slashes down each clone before they can even stop his attacks. He cuts through all of the clones but no Yugi.
Remaining still, the masked knight looks ahead as Yugi instantly appears in front of him, shouting as he thrusts the star-shaped energy sphere. ''ULTRA DRAGON RASENGAN!''
He thrusts his attack right at Shadow Knight's chest but he grabs it to Yugi's dismay. Swirls of shadow-like energy manifests from the palm of his hand and absorbs the light of Yugi's attack, dissolving it into nothing. This horrifies Yugi as Shadow Knight tells him, putting down his hand. ''A Dragon Knight should be smart as well as strong. Your talent as a strategist has let you learn things and take a step back to best approach the situation while also fighting in close quarters…''
''… But a Dragon Knight must be fierce and terrifying like a dragon.'' He then proclaims, almost sounding upset but not of disappointment or anger but something else. The masked knight moves back, floating over the ground, as he then says. ''You're there but you're held back by your doubts and another reason.''
Yugi frowns, upset, hating how correct he is or how he can read his thoughts.
''Become your Dragon Knight who will always protect everyone!'' Ichigo's words echo in the back of Yugi's mind.
Seeing his concerns, Shadow Knight then asks of the young Dragon Knight. ''Attack me with your strongest attack.''
Growling, Yugi shouts as he wields the Dragon Blade with both hands. ''FINE BY ME!''
He leaps upward as he holds up his Dragon Blade, immediately wrapped and consumed in purple flames with a pair of red eyes glowing through the flames.
''ROAR, HEAVENLY DRAGON!'' Yugi shouts fiercely before swinging his blade downward. ''DRAGONAUN TENGOKU FULL POWER!''
The flames of the blade shoot downward from his swing, unleashing the purple energy, serpent body dragon as it roars viciously. Shadow Knight observes as the dragon comes at him. He then sighs as he holds up his left hand and utters calmly. ''… SHADOW REFLECTION.''
He forms a barrier made of shadows, blocking the Dragonaun Tengoku. The purple dragon roars, trying to shred through the barrier with its fangs but the barrier instead grows and expands massively to Yugi's shock. The energy dragon tries to break through with all of Yugi's strength but Shadow Knight's defense does not break at all.
Soon the barrier is like a wall as it glows and releases a storm of darkness, vaporizing the energy dragon. It roars in agony as the attack now tries to consume Yugi until he teleports again and vanishes out of the way. He reappears, beginning to pant as he utters mentally in surprise. ''T-That was like Mirror Force but bigger. If I took the full blast of-''
''SHADOW WAVE.'' Yugi panics as he turns and Shadow Knight is now behind him, swinging his blade and fires a wave of shadow-like energy at him. The tricolor head can barely put up a guard, blocking it but the wave still consumes him. He grunts, struggling as waves push him away before the attack explodes, wrapping everything in shadows.
Shadow Knight watches, unsheathing his sword but then looks up to see Yugi dashing out of the smoke of the explosion, thrusting his Dragon Blade right at him but Shadow Knight acts by vanishing but not by his technique but the very technique Yugi has used. This horrifies Yugi as descends too fast and hits the ground through his blade.
On his knees and breathing heavily, Yugi grunts pulling out his blade quickly but stops, sweating as Shadow Knight is behind him, facing away as their backs nearly touch the other.
''Y-You also know that technique too?'' Yugi questions him weakly. Shadow Knight does not answer him and instead says. ''You've gotten used to using Instant Transmission. Not bad.''
''I-Instant what?'' Yugi utters really puzzled and the masked knight corrects him. ''Instant Transmission. You unlock it when you saw into Sir Dragonaun's memories. It was one of his abilities he learned.''
This staggers Yugi, completely stunned that he knew that. How?
''It is a technique that lets you to travel to anywhere you want with such speed that it is considered instant.'' Shadow Knight begins to explain calmly what it does in detail and other things. ''However, while one needs Ki, someone with Aura prowess can not only feel a person's aura better but even the place they are going as long as the user can sense the one or the other.''
Yugi makes a face so confused on this whole Ki part but also that Shadow Knight knows this much.
''However, your inexperience with the technique has hindered and puts strain on your body.'' Shadow Knight then points out, already sensing Yugi's aura shaking as he's lost too much energy.
Yugi just frowns weakly, actually growing weaker through the usage of the ability.
Shadow Knight then points out, crossing his arms concerned. ''The same is said about the Dragonaun Tengoku. The real power of the attack can ignore even the worst of foes and shreds through the best of defenses. It shatters reality and time at its fullest but yours… it lacks that yet.''
''… Why do you know so much about my attacks and techniques?'' Yugi finally questions his knowledge on his powers only for Shadow Knight to reply, firmly with his head slightly lower. ''… I know plenty.''
He lifts it up, turning to face the tricolor head and expresses. ''Regardless of your inexperience and haven't gotten the true power of a Dragon Knight; you're strong and I respect that.''
''… So are you.'' Yugi admits, knowing Shadow Knight is someone he's never fought before to give him such trouble and the idea that even if he went all out; he could lose… but he shakes his head, proclaiming strongly. ''B-But I am not giving up! Ichigo-kun is-''
''I have yet to even use my full power, not even a quarter.'' Shadow Knight immediately interrupts him, admitting he has yet to touch his limits. Yugi just glares not caring about-
''And I can use Burst Limit too.'' Now those words cause Yugi to widen his eyes. He stares at Shadow Knight, looking at him with his arms crossed as he then proclaims. ''Even if we continue, you will lose and die. You have doubt and despair in your heart.''
Yugi freezes up by his words, his gripping tighten but not of fury but of fear that he's right.
''Your battle against Deep Blue, you began to feel a desire to win. Your battle against Aizen, you gather your first roar to oppose him. Your battle against Maximilian, you muster the willpower to break through his evil. Your battle against the Dark Lord and Black Moon, you and your roar almost became one. Your battle against Zorc and his forces, you surpassed your own roar's current limit.'' Shadow Knight begins to counter many of Yugi's victories and his growth, each one making the young Dragon Knight grow and mature.
''What about those fights? What do those fights have to do with me?'' Yugi, however, protests as he had to win in those fights and nothing else. Shadow Knight then reveals to him firmly. ''That roar has become soften; replace with terror of losing those you love, and your own humanity as you continue seeing Kojan's descend and your own self-doubt weakening you.''
Yugi staggers heavily as the masked knight continues speaking. ''It is because of that your Dragonaun Tengoku will never strike me down. That's why your determination to become stronger than your opponents has vanished. And that is why you put more trust in your friendship than your own power to protect Ichigo Momomiya-kun.''
The young Dragon scowls upset. He's not wrong; his power right now wasn't enough against Pain or Kojan or those Arrancars.
''… If you wish to save Ichigo-kun, remember her words.'' Sighing at his harsh words, Shadow Knight then begins to make him remember as Yugi does as he then points out. ''You cannot save anyone, not her, not your friends, not even Kojan-kun locked in his darkness without truly becoming a true Dragon Knight. Even your bonds will not be enough and you know it.''
He approaches him, looking down at Yugi as he questions his goals. ''Do you believe in yourself? Do you want to fight for them and protect the world Atem died for?''
That last part shocks Yugi, looking up at the masked man. How does he know that? And yet he's not wrong again. Ichigo needs him and he needs to be better so he can become the person Atem sees in him and be the one to protect this world he died for.
Becoming calmer, Yugi then asks the masked knight. ''Why do you want to help me this much?''
''… Someone has to.'' Pausing, Shadow Knight replies. ''And I want someone like you as the Dragon Knight.''
He lowers down, getting onto one knee and then proclaims wise words to Yugi, with an honest voice. ''Kindness is not a weakness or a sin, compassion is not foolish; they are strength. Never forget.''
''…'' Yugi stares at him silently, blushing that his words are something he would believe in. Seeing this, Shadow Knight stands up straight and tells him, stretching his left hand towards him. ''Stand back up and show me why that sword wants your worthiness, Yugi!''
Yugi stares at him, more curious about who he is under that mask but for now he is right. He has to master his power and save Ichigo and protect his friends better, as well as save Kojan.
Breathing, Yugi focuses as the Dragon Blade reverts back to the Dragon Sword as does himself who finally pulls out the sword from the ground. He sheathes it, looking back at Shadow Knight and nods. He lost so he might as well go alone with this training. It's what Ichigo-
''Riofu!'' Yugi blinks rapidly, hearing a familiar cry as he turns. He stares as Riolu and Skitty appear before him, both concerned deeply.
''Riolu-kun, Skitty-kun.'' Yugi mutters, able to tell Riolu wishes to help him and so does Skitty to save Ichigo.
Shadow Knight snickers rather happily, surprising Yugi who turns back.
''They can come too.'' The masked knight proclaims, letting them come. ''They wish to help you too.''
Yugi looks at him and just smiles. He turns back to the two mons and nods, telling them. ''Let's go!''
''Riofu!'' Riolu barks smiling as Skitty purrs joyfully. ''Nyan!''
The three soon follow Shadow Knight who leads the way. Yugi walks, hoping this training does not take a long time. The quicker he finishes this, the faster he can save Ichigo.
What is this training Shadow Knight wishes to give Yugi? Will it help him save Ichigo and give him the power he will need?
To be continued…
(ENDING 4: Omae Dattanda by Kishidan from Naruto Shippuden)
Thank you for another great episode. I thank those who are helping me get this story noticed and enjoy it. For those who love it, please review my story and give me your opinions or thoughts on it.
Next Time…
Shadow Knight takes Yugi to meet the Vizards to set up the barrier required so Yugi may enter the soul memories of the Dragon Sword and try to unlock the full potential of a Dragon Knight. However, much like last time, Yugi must first be tested by entering a past memory. This time, Yugi found himself in a different world where comes across a man who is a soldier, about to face a former soldier who plans to bring destruction and avenge his master. If you wish to become a hero; a hero needs to have dreams.
DragonKnight15: … Dreams, are they fake or false to have? Or are they what inspires people to live on? Could they be a hero's desires? Can heroes have dreams? Will Yugi achieve his dreams?
Next time in Yu-Gi-Oh! Dragon Knight Reborn: Dreams of a Knight! Beyond the Crisis!
Please remember to read, enjoy and review. See you all next time.
Author's Note: A lot to cover and DAYS HAVE PASSED?! WELL… yes.
SO YEA, Anzu is back for the rest of the series… but um… I gotta say something. I have been looking at the Volumes I know I should have mentioned (mainly and especially Volume 3) but I can't find it. It seems I might have forgotten or more precisely, forgot to put in one of the Volumes that Anzu is leaving to the US for a special dancing school that Ichigo, with Mint's connections, let her go there for a few months, at least 4 months. I HAD THOUGHT I put this important detail BUT NOPE. I am upset I did NOT put that information not even in the last chapter of Volume 3 when Anzu left. SIGH…
I want to say I do like the pairing of YugixAnzu/Téa but the only problem is how alluring she gets with Atem which is my pairing for the two. Again, I don't mind either way.
Also, what do you guys think of Anzu and Ichigo's relationship? Like Anzu gets jealous of any girl who wants Yugi (ask Rebecca) but Ichigo is the exception because unlike other girls; Ichigo does care for Yugi in the same deep way Anzu would. Haha… if I could, I would break my rule and go full on harem on this story with Ichigo and Anzu… but I won't, though it doesn't mean I don't have to tease the idea.
And of course the small 'clash' between Yugi and Shadow Knight and the level gap Yugi is to the masked knight and his unique shadow abilities. Wonder how a real fight between the two would be… one day…
I wonder how some of you are trying to figure out who Shadow Knight is, hmm. With his skills and abilities… it is a mystery no?
Much like I did with the one-shot Fire Emblem chapter long ago in Volume 3, Yugi will enter another world as a test of the Dragon Sword on what kind of Dragon Knight he can become. SO… Any guesses what the next memory of another Dragon Knight is and yes, these memories aren't fully based on those in the past but alternative worlds too. The title of the next chapter is your only hint.
