Yu-Gi-Oh! : Dragon Knight Reborn!
Created by: DragonKnight15
Hello to all! This is Episode 69 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 69: Dreams of a Knight! Beyond the Crisis!
In the previous episode of DKR:
It had been a few days since Yugi lost to some of his revived villains turned Arrancars and Ichigo was kidnapped. Jonouchi and the others had to make up a lie that Ichigo ran away due to leaving Domino. Since Soul Society will not help since this could be a trap Aizen wants them to spring, the rest of Team Dragon Knight decided they will go alone after Yugi made the call and they knew he would agree. Yugi arrived but to hand over some homework and vowed to Shintaro that he would bring Ichigo back home. He nodded, having put his trust onto him.
Erika appeared and demanded what Yugi will do, feeling blame for not being aware of this and wanting to redeem herself by saving Ichigo too. Erika began to lose her temper, demanding what he was waiting for but Yugi wasn't sure. However, before the argument got worst; Anzu appeared from her dancing school on the other side of the world and calmed Erika down.
Anzu and Yugi talked after not seeing each other for a long time and knowing how Yugi thinks; Anzu encouraged him to go save Ichigo, no matter what. Yugi, smiling, thanked her and left.
After saving his goodbye to Jenny who also wished him luck though worried, Yugi headed out to meet Urahara to take him to the Hollow World only for Shadow Knight to appear before him and stopped him. Knowing well Yugi wanted nothing more but to save Ichigo, he challenged the young Dragon Knight to a fight to determine if he could land a strong blow to him and if he loses, he must listen to him. Yugi accepted and entered Burst Limit to fight him. Even with Dragon Blade Mode, Shadow Knight overpowered and disposed of any of his attacks, even the Dragonaun Tengoku.
Shadow Knight then reminded Yugi of the promise he made with Ichigo and not having a choice since he lost, Yugi accepted his terms. Now he is following Shadow Knight to unlock what the true power of the Dragon Knight is. Can he do it?
What will happen next?
And now the conclusion... last left off in the previous episode:
Yugi has been following Shadow Knight who takes him, Riolu and Skitty to Karakura Town. Even though he agreed to his training, Yugi still feels uneasy about the masked individual. He has no clue who he is and why he's helping him.
"Partner, I would feel the same being distrusting with someone we know nothing about…'' Atem, feeling his partner's uneasiness, begins to tell his partner about his distrust but then says also feeling the masked man. ''But something about this man is different. I think we can trust him.''
Yugi eyes him and nods. As much as he has no clue who he is, it's worth trying to trust him.
''The Pharaoh is not wrong.'' Yugi startles as Shadow Knight turns his head halfway. The tricolor head groans as he tells him slightly annoyed by his un-invitation to his mind. ''Yea well, I appreciate not having my mind read.''
Shadow Knight does not answer him. Yugi frowns a bit. It's Pegasus all over again but he could read more than one mind seemingly.
''So where are we going?'' The tricolor head then asks him. Shadow Knight then answers him. ''I need someone to form a special barrier while you meditate and enter the Dragon Sword again.''
Yugi blinks, questioning him as he knows what he's referring to. ''Path of the Dragon?''
''Yes, only this time perform the stance with the Dragon Blade.'' Shadow Knight admits, explaining it to him. Yugi hasn't done the Way of the Dragon, not since learning Burst Limit. He nods as he asks him. ''Okay. So who is this person in Karakura if Urahara-kun's shop is-''
But as he walks, he is suddenly stopped on his tracks. He feels something surrounding him while Riolu and Skitty are pushed back. Yugi stares confused, looking across the seemingly empty lot and yet… It feels like something is being hidden.
''You feel it, don't you?'' Yugi turns his head towards Shadow Knight, asking him. The tricolor head thinks about it, feeling this and it's a barrier and most importantly; he can feel Spiritual Energy through it.
''A spiritual barrier. Yea.'' He informs him, reaching with his bare hands and can feel it. It's like a wall and powerful, something that surprises him that he hasn't noticed sooner. ''It feels solid and I barely felt it at first.''
Shadow Knight nods as he then asks him. ''Can you cut it?''
Yugi, not needing to reply, grabs onto the hilt of the sheathed Dragon Sword. He pulls and swings it, cutting through the barrier. Energy reveals itself, vanishing to also reveal a warehouse in the empty spot.
''Impressive huh?'' Shadow Knight asks him with Yugi humming. The barrier is impressive though he's puzzled why it's here.
''A bit but-'' The tricolor head begins to say but then the masked knight interrupts. ''Let's proceed inside.''
He walks forward as Yugi sheaths his sword and follows him with the two mons behind them.
The group walks inside the warehouse. It looks and feels empty at first glance but Yugi can feel multiple auras but below them? How?
Approaching a spot in the warehouse, Shadow Knight raises his hand slightly down towards the ground. It begins to glow and reveals a downward stairway. Yugi is startled, amazed, proclaiming surprise. ''Oh wow! It's like the underground training room in Urahara-kun's shop!''
Shadow Knight hums, nodding, as the group walks down the stairway. They arrive in a similar underground desert place much like Urahara's too.
''Well this is a surprise.'' Yugi blinks, turning around to face Shinji Hirako. He has a calm yet surprising face with his open teeth smile as he asks. ''How did you two found my little home away from home?''
The upper teeth of the man had reminded Yugi of something he asked Kurosaki about his Hollow Mask and a group he ''technically'' joined to master those powers.
''Oh you're Shinji-kun right?'' Yugi asks him, aware of who he is. ''The one who taught Kurosaki-san about using his Hollow Powers?''
Shinji looks at him and oddly smirks at the young man's enthusiasm. He grins as he proclaims. ''Hehe. Same one, kid.''
''Awesome!'' Yugi expresses that the Hollow Mask power is insane. Shinji snickers, proclaiming. ''I know right-''
''STOP ACTING LIKE AN IDIOT, SHINJI!'' Suddenly a female voice shouts as something jumps and kicks Shinji across his face. Yugi staggers back in horror as he drops hard and someone drops on his place.
It is a short, brown eyed, blonde haired girl who wears her short hair in spiky pigtails with her bangs clipped together by three clips. She wears a white shirt and a red jogging suit with white lines running down from the shoulders and decorated with the first kanji of her name, as well as yellow flip flops. She carries a sword, a Zanpakuto, over her back. On each cheek, under each of her eyes, she has three freckles. She has an overly long fang protruding from the upper left side of her mouth and tired lines under her eyes.
''Eh?'' Yugi utters, sweat dropping. The little girl looks at him uninterested before huffing and turns her back to him. The tricolor head sweat drops as a male voice speaks up. ''Don't mind Hiyori, she does that all the time.''
The tricolor head turns around, facing someone who is seemingly moving a musician conductor baton. The man has purple eyes, long, wavy, blond hair and a perpetually bored expression, though right now most happy. He wears a black suit with a thigh-length, black jacket. He also wears a white frilled shirt with frilled, large cuffs and high collar that are untucked.
Shinji gets up, grunting, as he informs the young man. "This here is Rojuro or Rose. He loves music."
''Mainly the Classical Period.'' Rose corrects his leader just as he panics by a woman's voice. ''NOT ENOUGH KICKS!''
He ducks as nearly kicking him is a young woman with hazel eyes and lime green short hair. She wears a white bodysuit with orange gloves, boots and scarf, along with a set of goggles over her head. She then leaps right in front of Yugi, startling him as she asks excitedly. ''Are you the one who knows Wizard?!''
Yugi blinks surprised, asking her. ''You mean Haruto-kun?''
The woman nods rapidly as she responds honestly. ''I never-never-never-EVER met him but I am a big fan of all Riders!''
She holds up a photograph of Wizard, in his Flame Dragon form, fighting what is a monster resembling a phoenix, asking him loudly. ''PLEASE HELP ME GET HIS AUTOGRAPH!''
Yugi sweat drops but nods kindly, going to try. It is weird being the one to make the autograph. It would be him getting asked to write the autograph.
''Don't mind Mashiro's weird obsessions.'' Yugi blinks as the woman, Mashiro, buffs her cheeks angrily towards a man who said that. He is a tall, muscular man with sharp features, short light-gray/silver hair and brown eyes. He wears a dark purple A-shirt with a white trim, in addition to green cargo pants, black combat boots, and a pair of orange fingerless gloves. He also has a series of piercings, with one on his left eyebrow and three on his left ear.
''They're not weird Ken-chan, they're AWESOME!'' Mashiro tells him off who sighs and advises the tricolor head. ''Again, ignore her.''
She groans more frustrated. Shinji sighs with his arms crossed as introduces the two to the tricolor head. ''The girl is Mashiro. She's friendly but don't be her enemy if you want to be kicked. And he's Kensei, nice guy too don't let him fool you.''
Yugi nods smiling, able to tell they're nice.
''Wonder how he got in here.'' A dark skinned man says with brown eyes and a thick black spiked afro which adds further to his above average height. He wears a green jogging suit as well as mirrored sunglasses.
''Hachi screwed up for once.'' A young adult woman with turquoise eyes, red oval glasses and long black hair says uncaring, too focused on her manga reading. Her hair has bangs in the front and she keeps the back in a braided ponytail. She dresses in a long sleeved sailor fuku outfit, with a teal green/blue collar and matching pleated miniskirt that ends at her stomach, completed with a pink neckerchief.
Yugi turns to her and sees the cover of the manga she's reading. His face lights up as he quickly approaches it. Yep, that is one erotic manga he read and liked, mainly for the plot but the other stuff is good too.
"Oh hey, I read that manga." Yugi expresses, laughing nervously. The woman hums, not battering a look at him though she does tell him. ''My 5th read.''
Yugi whistles as he admits. ''I've read it 3 times… for reasons.''
This causes her to smirk, admitting the same. ''Same.''
Shadow Knight lets out a cough as Shinji introduces them to the tricolor head. ''That's Love and Lisa. A not a perv and the actual perv.''
Yugi sweat drops and bows to the nod. Love chuckles a bit, shaking his hand while Lisa is still reading her book.
''I am amazed you sense us through my barrier, young man.'' Yugi blinks as he turns around to see a very large and rotund older man approach him. He wears an olive-green tuxedo with a yellow bow tie. He has golden eyes, a pink mustache and pink hair with a black crossbone design in the center.
"Likewise only Kurosaki's girlfriend was able to sense Hachigen's Kido barrier, kid." Shinji agrees with him as he introduces Yugi to him. "You can call him Hachi. The big guy is much friendlier than the rest of us."
Yugi cracks a chuckle, surprised he's not the only one to think Ichigo and Orihime do make a nice pair.
"It was nothing really haha." Yugi says, trying to laugh though he's still worried for Ichigo. He snaps out and then admits. ''It wasn't my doing though but Shadow Knight-kun's.''
Hachigen hums, turning towards the masked cloak figure. He can sense strong spiritual energy from him though… there is more to it. He could tell this man is not ordinary.
''I require your Hado Master member's power, Shinji Hikaro-kun.'' Shadow Knight tells the Visored leader. Shinji looks at him, silent but… that honorific is rather-
''OI! And what makes you think we'll-'' Hiyori begins to protest but Shadow Knight immediately interrupts. ''Because the Dragon Knight wishes to save someone who Sosuke Aizen kidnapped.''
This gets to Shinji who gets why the kid feels off. He sighs and ultimately responds. ''… Okay then.''
The other Visoreds are not surprised though Hiyori grunts though not going to protest any further.
''Hachi, do what he wants.'' Shinji orders Hachigen who nods, going to do his best.
Yugi looks at them and feels bad to ask for all this help. He then expresses, bowing down to the group. ''I don't know a lot about you guys but Kurosaki-san mentioned something about Aizen-kun doing the whole Hollow transformation so… thank you for-''
His words are interrupted by Shinji snickering. Yugi lifts up his head puzzled as the blond haired man explains, still grinning. ''Sorry, you're the fourth person who is called Aizen by that Honorific. That bastard deserves worst show of respect.''
Yugi oddly smiles, agreeing though he doesn't mean it. Shinji also knows he doesn't mean it. After all, his parents are the same.
''The two I can think of my head were Takao and Miyu.'' He then says, surprising Yugi as Shinji continues saying. ''One just teased him while the other thought he was too full of himself.''
Shinji frowns a bit, remembering a bit… about that night. Even though he was being Hollowified, he remembers that night too well and how Kisuke was broken down and Takao furious towards Aizen.
''Your father was really someone else. If not for him and Kisuke, we all would be dead or worst.'' Shinji openly admits, thinking he and the others would not be alive if not for them.
Yugi smiles softly, once more questioning if he can be like his father would.
Shadow Knight looks at him and asks him firmly. ''Are you ready?''
The young Dragon Knight eyes him and nods firmly. He turns to Shinji and tells him with a smile. ''Shinji-kun, thank you!''
Shinji smirks and nods. Yugi walks forward, muttering a chant and transforms into his Burst Limit form. He twirls his Dragon Blade, sitting in a mediation pose with his claymore blade over his thighs. He breathes and closes his eyes.
''He's meditating?'' Hiyori questions, really puzzled. Shinji is aware of this position, muttering out. ''Path of the Dragon huh?''
Shadow Knight nods as he eyes Hachigen who nods and holds up his hands. He focuses and manifests a Hado-like barrier, a strong one that forms quadruple barriers.
''Takao almost died when he did that. Does he know?'' Shinji proclaims, asking if Yugi is aware of the risks. Shadow Knight looks at him and asks him. ''Did you tell Ichigo Kurosaki about his father?''
''... No comment.'' Widening his eyes a bit, Shinji just utters rather annoyedly. Who the hell is this guy who knows stuff he shouldn't?
Yugi doesn't listen as he begins to enter deep meditation. Riolu and Skitty watch with concern but hope that he will succeed and quickly so he can save Ichigo.
''Focus…'' Yugi begins telling himself, focusing deeper within just like back then. Soon his soul suddenly enters within the Dragon Blade without noticing it as his body remains still. Shadow Knight senses this, watching closely as he knows the next trial for Yugi will be much harder than last time.
''…'' Silent as breezes blow in front of him, Yugi opens his eyes and blinks. He finds himself in some wide open place with signs of former life, abandoned. He looks at himself as he looks like his regular form than in his Burst Limit form.
He sighs as Yugi tells himself, patting the back of his head. ''Here we go again.''
Not wasting time, he begins walking. He walks across these abandoned lands, concerned by this world. He can feel auras everywhere, small, almost unnoticed ones. It's like… the world is alive and souls are wrapping across the planet.
Regardless, this whole situation causes Yugi to be reminded of Ike's world. He looks down at his sheathed Dragon Sword, questioning himself out loud. ''I kinda wish why the Dragon Sword wants to test me with these memories?''
He walks forward, now walking on an abandoned bridge… well seemingly until something leaps before him. It resembles a human man wearing a unique red trench coat outfit but his brown hair is nearly a dirty colored white hair as well as his outfit, as if it's been bleached. He looks and feels almost not alive.
''Um hello? How can I-'' Yugi begins to question him until the figure suddenly comes at him, swinging with a giant gun-like sword. Yugi immediately pulls and blocks the sword strike, canceling it. The two swing their weapons, sparks flying out as they clash. The two pull back, away from the other, as Yugi twirls his sword, declaring. ''Never mind, you want to kill me. Level Up!''
His sword erupts in energy as he shouts, holding forward his transformed half-sized claymore sword. ''DRAGON SLAYER!''
The 'human' still comes at him with rapid, thrusting strikes but Yugi deflects each strike with quick blocks with the flat-side of his Dragon Slayer. He then slashes, swings downward, through the ground, and swings upward so fast that it slams the enemy upward in the sky. Yugi then twirls his raise Dragon Slayer, erupting in blue energy.
''DRAGONAUN-'' Yugi begins to chant, about to swing downward but then a figure leaps above him and comes down at the enemy, slashing him down. The enemy dissolves as the figure lands on his knees, wielding a larger sword.
''Woah!'' Yugi utters astonished, barely sensing him coming and it's just amazing. ''That was awesome.''
He watches as the new figure lands. He is a tall, well-built young man that has unique sky-blue eyes that seem to glow uniquely. He has spiky black hair, slightly wild with a single lock of hair hanging down in front of his face. He has an X-shaped scar on his cheek and a silver stud earring in his left ear. He wears a soldier-like black uniform with gloves and boots. The most noticed feature is his massive 5-6 feet long broadsword with a single-edged large blade approximately one foot wide. The sharp blade is a lighter color on the bladed edge, while the rest of the blade is dark gray, the handle is a reddish colored material with silver tinted segments at its ends and the handguard appears to be bolted or riveted into place. There are two holes near the handguard, variably said to be Materia slots. The handle is also wrapped in overlapping brown leather from the guard to the pommel.
"Just another clone but I must be-'' The young man begins to say, twirling the large broadsword before putting it on his back, attached and staying there, before he turns and startles to see Yugi. The tricolor head smiles as his Dragon Slayer reverts back to normal, sheathing the Dragon Sword as he greets him with a hand wave. ''Um hi.''
''Um… hi?'' The man replies rather surprised, waving back. He looks up and down at the stranger before concluding. ''You're not from Shinra or a Turk.''
''I don't know what any of that means.'' Yugi responds with a carefree smile, not familiar with any of those names. The young man hums, still observing him but he smiles, finally responding. ''… I believe you!''
He approaches the strange haired young man and greets him. ''Names Zack Fair, 1st Class SOLDIER!''
''Yugi Muto, Dragon Knight.'' Yugi responds, puzzled, by the whole 1st Class Soldier part. Zack blinks, curious as he replies. ''Dragon Knight? Never heard of that.''
''I'm sort of new to this world.'' The tricolor head then says honestly which causes Zack to laugh, liking his humor as he says. ''Ha, you're a funny kid!''
Yugi chuckles a bit nervously. He then asks him. ''So um where are you going?''
Zack becomes seriously at the dead clone. Genesis; he's calling out to him and he needs to make things right for Angeal.
''I'm going to confront someone who is a friend of my mentor but now he's danger to the people of this world.'' Zack answers him determinedly before then saying, thinking of the unconscious kid waiting for him. ''Then to help my friend.''
Yugi stares at him and something tells him that he should help Zack just like he helped Ike before.
''... You need help?'' Yugi asks him, wishing to help out. Zack blinks, looking back at him and hums, questionable. ''Well you're not a SOLDIER, you could get injected or worst.''
The tricolor head doesn't follow the injection part but protests, saying strongly. ''A Dragon Knight can handle anything.''
Zack eyes him, debating if he should but it would help him having backup against Genesis. Nodding, he takes his offer. ''Alright then kid. Come along if you can keep up!''
He then immediately runs off. Yugi sweat drops but does run after him. Zack isn't playing around as he runs swiftly and surprises himself to see Yugi caught up to him, grinning softly.
Zack is surprised by his movement as he asks him. ''So a Dragon Knight is like some kind of hero?''
''I guess so.'' Yugi responds kindly though he frowns, saddened. ''Though, sometimes I question if I really am a hero at times, Zack-kun.''
Zack raises an eyebrow by that ''kun'' part, following closely to what he's saying. Yugi looks down again at the handle of the Dragon Sword, summarizing his events with a frown. ''I couldn't stop my own friend and now someone dear to me was kidnapped. I couldn't… I was forced to watch them take her from me.''
''Was she like a friend or-'' Zack asks him, understanding these frustrations he's going through. Yugi nods, blushing as he tells him with a small smile. ''My girlfriend.''
Zack smirks, having a feeling as much as he then asks him. ''And you're going to rescue her then?''
Yugi nods determinedly, remembering her last words to him and vows it to himself. ''Yea. But first I have to complete this task. She's counting on me to save her and I will save her.''
Zack oddly smiles, reminded of Aerith. Man, he hopes after this, he can see her again.
''I know the feeling kid. I have someone I want to see again badly after I'm done here'' He tells the tricolor head who chuckles, feeling his aura suddenly cheered up, as he tells him. "You're really nice, Zack-kun. I can tell.''
''Same with you. You're like how Cloud should act like.'' Zack admits, hoping that he would become less unsure in himself after he wakes up.
''Cloud?'' Yugi utters puzzled, wondering what that is. Zack just smiles as he informs him. ''The friend who I left behind.''
The tricolor head hums but smiles, able to tell this Cloud is someone important, promising to Zack. ''Then I'll do my best to stop this guy hurting your world so you can reach him.''
Zack is grateful, actually glad he's not doing this alone. With someone on his side, maybe Genesis will see through reason. With that, the two move it faster out.
Will Yugi be able to help Zack on his task?
Commercial Break:
Atem: Yugi, be careful you don't want to get hurt in this memory.
Yugi: I'll be fine! I'm going to help Zack-kun and then we're off!
Yugi continues following Zack as the two arrive at an underground cave entrance. Zack isn't sure but he can feel Genesis is in there.
"This is it, the Banora Underground.'' Zack begins to proclaim seriously. ''This is where Genesis is.''
''That's really his name?'' Yugi asks, still taken back that that is his name. Now he has a bad feeling about this and it only gets worse the deeper they precede this underground, engaging different types of monsters including Genesis' clones. Zack is surprised Yugi was able to fight them off, even putting them down after he informs them they're not able to live for long and are all nearly mindless.
As they went deeper in, Yugi can feel an aura deep within and it's… it's not truly evil but menacing.
''I can feel such distorted aura up ahead.'' Yugi tells himself as does Atem, warning him. ''I do too, partner. Be careful.''
Yugi nods as the two come across a cave entrance.
''This must be it.'' Zack proclaims, feeling that Genesis is in there. He turns to Yugi and tells him. ''You can wait outside if you want.''
''I want to come along Zack-kun.'' Yugi, however, protests, wanting to help him in this fight. Zack looks at him, able to tell he's serious about it and sighs. He might need the help, best take the help. Plus Yugi is able to fight a Genesis clone so it is worth having his help.
''… Let's go then.'' Zack declares as Yugi smiles.
The two walk inside the large entrance and the two startle at what they're looking at is some kind of shrine.
Standing in front of the strange stone-like shrine is a man and similar to the one Yugi engaged a bit against. He has reddish brown over the bleached white, downward spiky hair with the same blue-like eyes as Zack. He wears a black, high-neck shirt, black belt, black pants and a long red coat with crossed leather straps, black boots and shoulder guards though the red on the coat has become bleached too with white.
He wields, from his right hand, a rapier-like, long red-bladed sword with black angelic wing guard and hilt. He also has a one winged black angelic-like wing on the left side of his body.
''So that's…'' Yugi begins to ask, with Zack responding firmly. ''Genesis.''
Turning around, the man begins speaking through phrases from a poem. "My soul, corrupted by vengeance, hath endured torment to find the end of the journey, in my own salvation and your eternal slumber."
Zack stares at him seriously while Yugi blinks, puzzled by his phrasing.
''You have succeeded Angeal's spirit, and carry a part of Sephiroth with you.'' Genesis proclaims, praising Zack for appearing to complete the last step of his plan. ''Thus, the three friends are reunited once again… And LOVELESS is reenacted.''
However, Genesis narrows his gaze towards the stranger with the unique hairstyle and utters rather disappointed. ''Though… I am surprise by this… uninvited guest.''
Yugi just waves hello as Zack shouts seriously from his last comment. ''No! Open your eyes, Genesis!''
Smirking softly at his words, Genesis resumes quoting a phrase from his poem. ''When the war of the beasts brings about the world's end…''
''I've… I've come here to help you…'' Zack tries to tell him but Genesis ignores him and resumes. ''The goddess descends from the sky. Wings of light and dark spread afar. She guides us to bliss, her gift everlasting.''
He turns around just as the statue's orb glows brightly, releasing beams of green-like energy. Zack braces himself while Yugi watches with widened eyes.
"W-what is this surge of energy!'' Yugi questions in confusion, overwhelmed by the power releasing outward from the statue. This energy is completely different than anything he imagined.
''It's like…'' The tricolor head begins to say, feeling the aura of this energy and it's like hundreds, billions of souls within this surge of energy. ''I can feel the whole planet, every single being.''
It is overwhelming even for someone like Yugi while Zack is surprised that he can feel the lifestream. Someone with Mako is capable of understanding this so for him to feel it as well is surprising.
''The gift of the goddess. A heavenly boon found only in Banora.'' Genesis announces calmly to Zack's shock, questioning him from his own experience. ''I thought the cells were the gift!''
''There are various interpretations.'' Genesis simply responds to Zack's annoyance, uttering in more confusion. ''I don't understand.''
''Me neither.'' Yugi speaks up, all of this much more shocking than he would want.
''To ponder the mystery is in itself a gift…'' Genesis then announces, accepting the energy swirling around him. ''We will all… join the lifestream.''
He then points his left index finger towards Zack and tells him. ''You… are no exception. This planet… has become my guardian.''
''Stop this, Genesis! This is not who you are! You-'' Zack tries reaching out to him again, not wanting him to go through this path just like Sephiroth. However, Genesis is much aware of this and protests. ''Zack, there is nothing we can discuss on the matter. The cards have been dealt to us all but this is all part of LOVELESS final page.''
Genesis reaches into his coat as Yugi watches and feels something evil within it.
''The Gift of the Goddess will bliss me!'' He declares as he pulls out a strange black crystal. ''And this special Mako Crystal, I will transcend.''
Suddenly all the Lifestream energy dives downward into the crystal, causing it to glow a black ominous glow. Zack watches, worrying while Yugi becomes concerned, sensing a similar dark power from the crystal.
''Where did you get that?'' Yugi demands Genesis about the crystal. Ignoring this unimportant 'character', Genesis then declares to Zack. ''Behold Zack. This is where Angeal and even Sephiroth failed to see!''
Zack watches worrying as Genesis places and stomps the crystal into his chest and soon gasps, his eyes glowing an ethereal glow.
''The bliss of-'' Genesis begins to proclaim before the dark covers and consumes his voice, speaking with a darker, monstrous voice. ''WILL REVIVE ABSOLUTE DESTRUCTION!''
The darkness consumes the Lifestream before it explodes, bracing both Yugi and Zack from it as flames consume the spot that Genesis is standing.
''Genesis?'' Zack utters, looking towards the flames and sees a pair of red piercing eyes. A dragon's roar is heard, blasting the flames away while causing Yugi and Zack to brace themselves. Emerging from the dissolving black flames is Genesis, transformed into Dark Leader Dragon. His body has become black scaled dragon with red highlights and lining, muscular like with red piercing dragon eyes, glowing viciously as he is only wearing his pants. The Black Mako Crystal is implanted on his chest, glowing viciously.
''SUCH POWER!'' Genesis declares in a strong roar, loving this power he's had before. Such power suits him and now he has the means to change this world in his mother's image.
''I will return everything back to zero, for you, mother!'' He declares before letting out a monstrous, echoing roar. ''RAAAWRRR!''
Zack braces himself, actually feeling that. Yugi does too as he already pulls out his Dragon Sword to defend himself, having seen this before.
''Just like before, he became Dark Leader Dragon.'' Yugi proclaims, recalling it back in Ike's world. He eyes Zack, glaring worry before he asks him. ''Zack-kun, do you want to save him?''
Zack turns to face him and simply nods firmly, wanting to. He owes it to his mentor; he won't fail him. The tricolor head smirks softly and declares strongly. ''Then let's beat him together!''
The spiky black haired SOLDIER looks at the young man and just smiles, nodding. He grabs onto the handle of the Buster Sword behind his back and it comes off his back. He twirls it up before holding it forward with both hands, declaring strongly. ''We'll stop you from hurting any lives!''
Genesis looks at the two and simply lets out a shrieking roar.
''Level Up!'' Yugi then shouts as his sword transforms once more. ''Dragon Slayer!''
Growling rather even more furious, the transformed Genesis roars furiously. ''YOU ARE NO A PART OF THIS!''
He comes dashing towards them, mainly Yugi as he thrusts his claws at him. The tricolor head counters and blocks the claws, sparks flying out as Genesis is going at it extremely aggressively but Yugi deflects each claw strike and moves around as well.
As they crash around, Zack leaps in as he swings his Buster Sword downward. Genesis, still attacking Yugi, feels him coming and whips out its dragon tail, smacking Zack's broadsword away and slams him back. Zack rolls on the ground as he holds up his free hand and fires Firaga at the dragon but the Genesis tanks it. In fact, he absorbs the flames and breathes a blast of flames from its mouth. Zack rolls out of the wave, charging forward with a sword slash but Genesis smacks him aside by the tail.
Yugi tries to slash him swiftly but Genesis catches it, lifted up by the Dragon Slayer and tosses him aside. Zack then uses Blizzaga but the ice spell does no damage, burning through the ice. Grunting, Zack applies the Haste spell and dashes with quick speed but Genesis slams its claw across his face and slams him onto the ground. He roars, charging black flames between its fangs.
''DRAGONAUN TENSHO!'' Genesis turns his head and Yugi appears right behind him, swinging the Dragon Slayer and unleashes a blue energy wave slash, blasting him. Genesis is pushed backwards, brushes off the damage. Yugi dashes at him but Genesis gut punches him instantly and then unleashes a blast of flames from the palm of his hand, crashing him into the cave walls.
Distracted, Zack unleashes Thundaga towards Genesis until he lets out a roar. A pair of black dragon wings grows out from his back and he takes flight to his surprise. Zack is shocked but comes leaping at him, slashing his sword against his Genesis' claws. Sparks fly out as the two swing and clash with each other's strikes, dropping slowly on the ground. Zack pulls back as Genesis charges, roaring as he breathes flames. Zack rolls away as he does a rolling swing with the Buster Sword, causing the transformed SOLDIER to catch the sword and pushes him back slightly.
Zack breathes as Genesis roars and shoots out multiple fireballs at him. He deflects and slashes each fireball with his broadsword, cutting them all down. He's then tail stomped by Genesis, roaring as the tail wraps the stunned Zack, squeezing him alive. He grunts as Genesis until Yugi's voice shouts. ''DRAGONAUN SWORD!''
The black dragon barely turns as Yugi dashes through his tail and cuts through it. Genesis roars in agony, re-growing it instantly but Zack uses Stop spell, freezing him up. He eyes Yugi, panting, as he uses Curaga on Yugi.
Feeling better, the two come charging at the black dragon and swing their swords in union, slashing down the freezing dragon. However, Genesis' eyes glow and he lets out a roar, breaking free from the spell. He immediately releases a dark energy pulse, blasting both Yugi and Zack hard.
Zack thrusts the Buster Sword into the ground, slowing himself down as his feet grind on the ground. Yugi tries to do the same but Genesis appears to his right and stomps his right claw foot across his chest and slams him once more into a cave wall.
''Damn it!'' Zack utters, pulling his sword out of the ground and focuses, going to try to settle this with his signature attack.
''Limit Break…'' He utters out before he comes charges at Genesis while his body glows a thin blue outline. Genesis turns around as Zack shouts, swinging his blade instantly. ''CHAIN SLASH!''
He swings his massive sword, delivering striking slashes but Genesis releases a burst of dark energy blast from his mouth upon Zack. It sends him flying backwards as the Buster Sword flies off Zack's possession, leaving weaponless. Zack manages to somersault himself onto his feet, panting as the broadsword stabs into the ground but away from him.
Genesis suddenly starts laughing loudly, almost insanely, before he declares. ''Without Angeal's blade, you stand no chance against me now! Now LOVELESS will be completed!''
Zack oddly smirks as he pulls out the standard, slightly short long bladed SOLDIER sword. Genesis gazes confused as the spiky black haired declares. ''Good thing I had this as backup.''
''Grrwlll… A mere SOLDIER Sword cannot beat me!'' Genesis roars viciously towards the foolish hero. Zack is aware that his chances are low but right now no one else can stop Genesis but him. He owes it to his mentor to win, he owes it to himself for failing Sephiroth from whatever changed him and he owes it to Aerith who he wants to see again.
''… Maybe but…'' Zack begins to proclaim, recalling all the events he's experienced so far. ''I promised Angeal and myself that I would save you. I failed Sephiroth, I failed in my duties but I will not succumb and shatter!''
Remembering Angeal's words, Zack holds forward his sword, twirling it to the flat-side, leaning his head over it before beginning to declare. ''I too have honor and dreams through this sword! And I will not…''
Swinging the sword as it points to the transformed Genesis, Zack proclaims with determination. ''I will not lose here!''
Yugi watches, pulling himself out as the Dragon Slayer reverts back to the Dragon Sword and starts to glow. He notices it as he then sees Zack's other sword begins to glow in response too. This surprises him as the shine becomes brighter.
Genesis watches and can't help but wrap one of his wings forward as the light starts burning his wing.
''What… is this light?'' He utters puzzled, finding the light almost… godly. No, it couldn't be.
The light soon fades as the SOLDIER sword has transformed into a greatsword with golden trimmed, tint and lining with the guard resembling a wide open dragon's mouth with its eyes being Matera gems. The handle is also trimmed with golden lining with the bottom hilt connected to a long white bandage wrapping.
Zack stares astonished, feeling a surge of power running through his veins. Yugi watches and feels this power. It's the same that happened to Ike; Zack has become a Dragon Knight too!
''Is this too… the gift of the Goddess?'' Unfolding his burned wing, Genesis questions as his eyes are fixated on the transformed sword. He begins to calm down, acknowledging the sword's shining beauty before he starts gasping in agony; the darkness of the Mako Crystal intensifies and consumes him. Genesis howls in agony as his eyes turn black and completely possessed by its dark power, roaring even more monstrous.
Zack glares as Genesis charges, acting more berserk and wild, as it swings his claws. Zack repels quickly evades, much faster before slashing his hand off with one swing of his new sword. This shocks Zack and even Genesis who growls in pain, gripping on his missing chop claw.
''T-that was…'' Zack tries uttering, really amazed that just happened. Genesis roars, regenerating a new claw and comes at him. Zack swings his greatsword, clashing his claws with his sword. Both parry and counter the other almost evenly matched but Zack is becoming better with the new sword. Genesis tries launching his head to bite off his head but Zack backflips and kicks the dragon head hard as he backflips and then thrusts forward with a piercing strike. It forces Genesis to catch the blade with its claws but the force of the sword actually stabs through him.
Genesis gasps, widening his eyes as Zack lets out a battle cry and lifts the transformed black dragon and launches him over him, slamming him downward onto the ground. The dragon man is slammed hard, actually skipping him like a rock. Genesis growls and grunts, pulling himself up and charges once more at him. Zack charges in too, the two dashing around the other as sparks fly out from their slashes.
Zack then gets behind Genesis and swings his sword in an arc but the dragon takes flight, laughing insanely. He growls, going to need to use-
''Zack, use your Dragon Sword's power!'' The SOLDIER startles, turning to Yugi who advises him. ''Focus deep in yourself and release that power passionately!''
Zack doesn't understand that passionate part but if it'll help him; he'll try. He breathes, holding his greatsword forward. He focuses as swirls of golden energy begin wrapping around the blade. Genesis watches aggressively, opening its wide dragon mouth as swirls of black flames begin forming between its fangs.
''Limit Break…'' Zack begins uttering, waving his sword to his side as he takes aim and then swings forward. ''DRAGON SLICE ATTACK!''
His blade swings and immediately fires a golden energy beam that takes on the form of a dragon's tail just as Genesis breathes the Dark Lord's Black Flame Inferno. The two attacks collided, light and dark energies smashed between each other. Yugi watches but smirks as Zack's attack is overpowering Genesis'. Soon the black flames are cut through by the golden energy wave that hits the black dragon directly.
Genesis roars in agony, hitting him as he crashes onto the ground. Zack breathes deeply, staring at his new sword and just amazed by its power.
''That was really cool.'' He comments with Yugi answering with a small grin. ''Yep!''
Zack smiles back. The moment is cut short as they hear intense roars. Genesis once more stands up, his body erupting in dark energy as his eyes are so tainted with hate and fury.
''I-I will not…'' Genesis begins to proclaim as he loses himself to the power of darkness. ''LOSE TO YOU!''
His body is overloaded with his growing power as Zack sweats, taking on a sword stance. He can feel Genesis won't hold anything back. He gulps as he has to do something but just then Yugi walks forward, appearing out of nowhere.
''NOW BE GONE!'' Genesis announces furiously, about to unleash Apocalypse but just then…
''Dragon of the Heavens!'' Genesis staggers as Yugi begins to chant softly, gripping on the handle of the sheathed Dragon Sword. ''Roar across the boundaries of reality and fantasy, and grant me the blade that creates impossibilities!''
The Dragon Sword shines brightly, even piercing the darkness that is trapping Genesis' consciousness, confusing it with the light of the Goddess.
''BURST LIMIT!'' Yugi shouts loudly as he transforms and enters his Burst Limit form. He swings the Dragon Blade, unleashing a burst of power that nullifies Apocalypse as he declares. ''The Power of our Friendship, the Dragon Blade!''
This shocks Genesis as well as surprise Zack, actually bracing himself by this power.
''W-what in the-'' Genesis utters in confusion before he's suddenly kicked stomp by Yugi, almost snapping him out. He's pushed back as he growls, enraged by the kick. He flies at him at top speed but Yugi appears right in front of him and swings the Dragon Blade, nearly slashing him down if not for Genesis to block with his claws that he's pushed into the ground as Yugi pushes him back by the sheer force of his blade.
''Poems or destiny doesn't define us!'' Yugi tries to tell him, showing him another way to live his life. ''We do! We have the power to make our own destiny!''
This enrages Genesis who roars and releases a wave of black mouth flames that Yugi swings and cuts through them with ease. He then tells him strongly, standing a defensive stance. ''That is something no one can take away from us!''
Genesis immediately snaps, breathing multiple fireballs at Yugi who swings them down expertly before dashing to the right and blinks as he bumps his foot to the bladeless edge of the Buster Sword.
''SILENCE, YOU ARE NO-'' Genesis begins to shout as he comes charging at him. Grabbing onto the handle of the Buster Sword, Yugi swings it out of the ground and nearly slashes Genesis if he doesn't pull back. He breathes loudly as a stream of blood comes out from his chest, revealing a deep cut from that slash.
''Wrong! I am a Hero, I am the Dragon Knight!'' Yugi declares passionately as he charges once more, swinging both swords. Genesis is forced to fly over him but Yugi smirks, wanting this.
''TWIN…'' Yugi begins to proclaim, swinging the Buster Sword upward with swift speed. Genesis blocks it but it launches him upward into the sky followed by both large swords. Genesis flaps his wings, floating only to look down and his dragon eyes widen; that nobody was gone. He then staggers, feeling a shadow above him and he looks up fast and sees Yugi above him, once more holding both swords over his head. Both blades glow purple-like flames as he shouts, roaring while swinging the blades downward. ''DRAGONAUN AETHER!''
Genesis tries to do something but he suddenly pauses; his dragon eyes staggering to see this nobody and instead could see illusions of dragon feather wings of light and dark on his back. Could it be… that-
This hesitation is enough for Yugi to slash through Genesis's dragon, but most of all directly across the crystal on his chest. The black Mako begins to quake and crack open, causing Genesis to scream in agony as the blades release an explosion as he crashes into the ground.
Zack watches speechless, dust settling around where Genesis crashes as dark energy shoots upward and begins dissolving.
Yugi breathes heavily, descending rapidly back on the ground. He watches alongside Zack as emerging from the smoke is Genesis except he's back to normal human form and without any white. He's been fully cured as Zack proclaims, amazed. ''Genesis's body has been restored!''
Gasping for confusion, Genesis raises his right gloved hand towards his face. He allowed such dark taint to consume him, becoming a devil than a being his Goddess would praise.
''My soul… corrupted by vengeance and hatred…'' Genesis begins uttering with a dramatic tone, disgusted at his actions. ''Hath endured torment, to find the end of the journey. In my own salvation…''
He then eyes Zack and tells him in a still dramatic voice. ''And your eternal slumber.''
Yugi raises an eyebrow, really confused but Atem understands as he informs his partner. ''He wanted to die.''
This shocks the tricolor head as Zack then asks Genesis, also realizing what he wanted. ''Does that mean… you knew… from the beginning?''
Not answering his question, Genesis raises his sword forward and demands the man before him. ''Stand and fight, SOLDIER 1st Class Zack!''
''Why is everyone… always pushing things on me?'' Zack questions in annoyance, not wanting to fight him anymore.
''Truth be told… same here.'' Yugi begins to tell him, admitting his frustrations but he also tells him honestly. ''But I guess that's why we're the heroes of our own story too? No one else but us can do this.''
Zack startles, turning to face Yugi who smiles and tosses the Buster Sword back to him who catches it.
''Help your friend out, Zack-kun!'' Yugi encourages him with a small smirk. Zack eyes him and smiles, stabbing his Dragon Sword into the ground and once more wields the Buster Sword towards Genesis. He stares at the black spiky haired man and proclaims, pointing his own rapier sword right back. ''Now let us turn to the last page of our story, Zack Fair!''
Zack glares strongly before dashing forward as does Genesis, both their swords swinging and clashing once more. Yugi watches as the two clash blades as they swing and parry the other's attacks but Yugi can tell Genesis is not trying. In fact, it's like he's allowing himself to lose.
Zack manages to kick Genesis across the chest hard as he twirls the Buster Sword over his head, breathing as a blue outline forms around his body.
''Limit Break…'' Zack begins to proclaim as he forms a wide squatting battle pose before dashing forward, shouting. ''OMNISLASH!''
Genesis stands there as Zack comes at him and performs 7 continuous slash strikes that not even Genesis can respond or do anything against the onslaught. However, Genesis releases a burst of his power and breaks free, trying to attack Zack but he vanishes with such speed and proceeds to slash him all over him 7 times, making it impossible for Genesis to respond again. For the final slash, Zack leaps up and as the Buster Sword and his Dragon Sword glow, he swings both swords downward and he slashes through the front of Genesis's body but only enough to damage him. This is enough as Genesis gasps, staggered back and soon he drops on one knee before dropping face forward, unconscious.
''A-awesome!'' Uttering in awe, Yugi watches with a look of amazement across his face. That technique looked and was so awesome as he wants to try it one day.
He continues watching as Zack twirls the Buster Sword and places it on his back, attached automatic. He picks up Genesis and takes him outside after grabbing his new sword too. Yugi follows as they exit the cave and arrive at a spot of some camp where two people are waiting. One looks old, almost aging older with white wings and the other was unconscious with blond spiky hair. There is also some kind of monster protecting them but hurt, like part horse but dragon-like. Yugi can feel their auras; they don't have much time left to live.
Yugi watches from a distance as Zack and the man spoke with Zack chuckling in agreement. He then witnesses both the white haired man die as well as the strange horse-dragon-like creature with the same wing. The tricolor head frowns, watching them pass on.
Zack leaves for a moment, grabbing strange fruit from a distance before returning and handing one of them to Genesis who slowly reawakens.
''W-why…'' Zack looks down at Genesis, still breathing weakly but alive. ''Why have you not swung your last strike as a lethal blow?''
Closing his eyes for a moment, Zack answers him strongly. ''Because… both our stories should not end here, Genesis. We're no longer bound to Shinra or fate; we choose the path that will lead us to a better future.''
Zack still isn't sure about all of this but he knows there is never one path.
''I don't understand any of this…'' Zack openly admits about his shortcoming but does also say. ''But I know there's a better way to find meaning in life than to give up on what makes you. Our paths are not just one.''
Genesis looks down rather sad, not sure. Yugi soon approaches him, overhearing their conversation and suggests. ''Your book can always have a second part. Then the gift is your second life, Genesis-kun.''
This staggers Genesis, looking up weakly towards Yugi who smiles. Genesis soon smiles a bit. Yugi then asks him about the black crystal he used to transform and how he got it. Genesis simply says it was a gift of his goddess that it found him but he weakly admits now that thing was the devil. Yugi is relieved as that means he must not have become a Dark Lord or well deny it.
With that, Genesis can now rest, dreaming… of a second book. LOVELESS: The Second Journey. No… but… it's a start.
Yugi smiles as that might have helped him find closure… wondering now if he can do the same with Dark Leader Dragon.
''Hey.'' The tricolor head snaps out as Zack tosses him something and he catches it. He eyes it before uttering in surprise. ''A purple apple?!''
He looks back at Zack who bites on his, smiling to tell him it's perfect to eat. Yugi eyes the fruit and takes a bite on it, startling in amazement by its sweet taste and softness.
''Hmm, juicy!'' The tricolor head expresses with a smile, taking another bite on it. Zack smiles, happy to see that.
Just then Yugi's body begins to glow as the apple phases through his hand, dropping on the ground. Zack notices this and staggers to witness Yugi floating upward. He drops his mouth, now realizing that Yugi was serious about being new to this world.
''Guess my time here is over.'' Yugi utters in surprise, assuming his time here is done much like with Ike's.
''Yugi, wait!'' Zack shouts, trying to leap up to him to grab his leg but his hand passes him through him. He lands on the ground as Yugi tells him, sadly. ''Sorry Zack-kun, guess my time here is up.''
Zack watches, also sad that he's leaving but he's still grateful he did meet him.
''Thank you though, for helping me.'' Zack tells him, showing his appreciation for all he's done. Yugi nods as he then asks him. ''Promise me you'll return to that person you want to see again.''
''With this new power, I might.'' Zack promises her, looking at his new weapon and the power he has now that he will not just reunite with Aerith but also turning towards the conscious Cloud, also oddly vowing. ''And Angeal and my dreams can be his dreams too.''
Remembering his mentor's words, Zack looks up at Yugi and tells him those very words to him too to help him in his own struggles. ''A hero needs to have dreams, Yugi. You need to make goals to yourself and always strive to surpass not anyone but yourself.''
''Hero needs dreams to surpass oneself?'' Yugi mutters, summarizing what he shared with him and even though he seems sad; he was in deep thought about such things. His only dream is to protect his friends but… he has other goals and Zack is right about that.
''Never forget, value your dreams and honor on yourself and your sword.'' Zack advises him strongly about it. Yugi looks down at him and smiles, promising to him. ''I will!''
Yugi begins to fade away as Zack watches till he vanishes. He finds himself in the similar floating space of energy, leading him to one path. He flies through it, thankful for Zack as he says mentally. "Thank you Zack-kun. I'll never forget you, I promise.''
The young Dragon Knight is now more determined to save Ichigo and-
However just then two different portals open up between Yugi and before he can turn around, two figures emerge from one of the portals and they slam hard across him, mainly something yellow-like head hitting his face.
''WAA!'' Yugi shouts as he and the two figures are pushed inside the other portal as both vanish.
Yugi managed to help the SOLDIER hero only to be pushed into another situation. What will happen now?
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…
As he was being taken deep into the Dragon Sword, Yugi is instead taken to a digital-like cyberspace along with a familiar young boy and his dinosaur Digital Monster. Now the three need to escape this place while attacked by an unknown enemy.
Alicia: Hope Yugi is okay.
Jonouchi: I'm sure he's okay! We have to trust Yugi.
Jenny approaches the group: Good, you're all here.
Anzu: Oh Jenny-san!
Jonouchi: So what's the call for?
Jenny: … We're going to help my brother.
Ed: … Yea sure, let's!
Yugi: … So… Next time in Yu-Gi-Oh! Dragon Knight Reborn: Lost in a Digital Translation! *no one* EH… Please remember to read, enjoy and review? See you all next time… I miss Ichigo-kun, I hope she's okay, really.
Author's Note: A LOT TO COVER. First, the Visoreds. YEA, not Vizards. Who knew?
So as I mentioned last time, the latest memory from the Dragon Sword is now on Final Fantasy, mainly FF7 aka Crisis Core (the original)… aka Zack Fair. Why Zack and not Cloud? I like both characters but for this story it needs to be Zack and reasons I cannot say yet. Also happy Crisis Core Remake was made... sad I can't play it unlike the PSP one since the new version has made good changes, especially for the last scenes in the game.
I figure it makes more sense that it is Genesis becoming a new Dark Lord over Sephiroth because it would screw up the timeline of that world-ish. And yes, I know FF7 Remake is VERY special on this topic (which I approve of!). But yea, Zack is a Dragon Knight in this timeline. I had fun.
Also yes, I know Zack never used Omnislash but it would make sense that he could so here's this.
Plus gave a somewhat redemption for Genesis then pure out getting him killed to prove even the powers of the Dark Lord cannot truly possess the hearts of others.
And before someone ask, these "memories" are not just on Yugi's timeline or world... it can be any world that a Dragon Knight could become a thing. And yes, it doesn't have to be another hero with powers already but anyone with the traits that a true Dragon Knight carries in the cases of Ike and Zack so someone like... give me a name of a main character without powers that have traits of someone good and he or she can have the powers of a Dragon Knight too. Just so we're cleared.
Next time, a bit of a side track as Yugi meets someone he once met and you can say it is a small ''adventure''.