LOBBY – THE BROTHERHOOD HQ – CAPITAL – CANTIDEL EMPIRE – ARC-V

Once they were done with their business at Maiami City, Sara, Yukiya, and Reiji immediately returned to Cantidel. However, once the car reached the lobby, only Sara and Reiji got out of the car while Yukiya stayed, asking the driver to take him somewhere else. Neither Sara nor Reiji asked where he was going. Only by looking at his face, they knew that wherever Yukiya was going, it'll help him to go through with their next battle.

"Once again, thank you for taking us to Maiami City, Reiji-san." Sara bowed gratefully to the Leo Corporation Chairman.

"It's the least I can do to help. I'm glad he's getting better now." Reiji replied.

"By the way, I've been wondering, what is that you're holding?" Sara asked while pointing at the envelope that Reiji was holding. Before they went to the memorial, they briefly stopped by Leo Corporation. His subordinate with glasses, Nakajima, if Sara remembered it right, gave Reiji the envelope.

"It's something left behind by my father to me before he died. I had Nakajima to complete and printed it out." Reiji answered, opening the envelope and bringing out a piece of paper. Before Sara could ask what it was, Reiji told her.

"In the envelopes there were a few cards developed by my father. And this paper is an adoption paper for Yuri." Reiji revealed while reading the paper with Yuri's photo.

"Adoption paper?" Sara said questioningly.

"Father asked me to take care of Yuri for him. This is what he meant. He wanted to make amends with Yuri through this adoption. He thought giving him a family would be a good first step." Reiji explained. While he was determined to fulfil his father's last wish, Reiji actually wasn't sure with how Yuri would react to this. He never had a chance to speak with Yuri after his father died, so he didn't know how Yuri now feels for his father.

"Yuri-kun would appreciate it." Sara said, as if reading Reiji's mind. She smiled at him. "I've spoken with him about your father after he died. Even if he didn't show it so clearly, he is saddened by Leo-san's death. Ever after everything Leo-san had done, Yuri still cares for him."

Reiji's gaze hardened at the girl who was the reincarnation of his sister. For a second, he thought he was speaking to Ray directly, but quickly dismissed the thought. She might be Ray's reincarnation, but she's not his deceased older sister. Still, it's evident that Sara was no doubt Ray's reincarnation. They were alike. Able to see through his stoic façade and say things that can make him feel better. Even if she's communicating with Ray's soul, Reiji has this strong feeling that this was not because of Ray's influence or anything, this was Sara's own will.

"I'll have to wait until Yuri returns. How long do you think it'll take until he is finished with the business in the Duel Monster Realm?" Reiji asked, putting the paper back inside the envelope.

"Maybe not until several hours."

Reiji and Sara turned to meet Yuhei approaching them.

"We just received an SOS from Sora. There's complication on the other side." Yuhei informed Sara and Reiji.

"What kind of complication?" Sara asked worriedly.

"We don't know. Looks like Sora didn't get to include the details because of a time constraint just to send a message. He only said that they need back-up. But the problem is, we can't send any back-up because the Rift was closed. We can't enter the Duel Monster Realm." Yuhei revealed.

"It was sealed?! How?!" Sara questioned, her worries intensified.

"We don't know! Most likely it was sealed from the other side! Right now, I'm going to enter the realm from another entrance that I know!" Yuhei replied, his tone clear saying he was in a hurry.

"Wait, there's another entrance to the other realm?" Reiji asked.

"Yeah. It's an entrance that can only be entered by Duel Monsters like me, so I'm the only one who can go."

"Have you told Yugo-kun about this?" Sara asked, not seeing the owner of Clear Wing Synchro Dragon nearby. She expected the Riding Duelist to follow his ace monster even if he can't enter the realm.

"He's preoccupied with his training with Lilac-san. I'm going without telling him." Yuhei answered. He obviously didn't want to put his master in danger. With the way his master's mental condition now, he'll most likely do something even more reckless than usual.

"Where is this other entrance?" Sara asked again, deciding not to argue with Yuhei about not telling Yugo where he was going.

"At the Cave of Desire in the mountain near Millia Town." Yuhei revealed.

"You mean the rumored cave where people who goes inside will get anything they want and never come out?" Sara repeated. She had heard the rumor about the cave, but she thought it was just that, a mere rumor. But if the cave does exist, and it was the entrance to the Duel Monster realm, then that means the people who went inside never returned because they were trapped and died in the Duel Monster realm.

"I'm going with you in Yugo-kun's place then. I'll wait outside the cave at least." Sara volunteered, no, she was demanding to come with Yuhei whether he liked it or not.

"I'll ask for a helicopter to get us there." Reiji said, holding out his Duel Disk to make the call. The faster they got there, the better.

Yuhei didn't even have the room to argue. Not like he'll object. He knew that Sara and Reiji would keep their word and stay out of the cave. They already lost Yuya and Odd-Eyes, so they won't do something so reckless like going inside the cave with him with the risk of death.

They won't do that, right?

A FEW HOURS AGO – MEADOW – DUEL MONSTER REALM

When they came out from the portal, Ifrit and the others arrived at a vast plain meadow with four pathways according to the four winds. At first, it was like a usual ordinary meadow, but the atmosphere, the air, everything felt different. They couldn't describe it in words, but there was no doubt that they were no longer in the human realm. There was just this feeling that was different than when they were in the human realm. Something that told them that whatever they're sensing right now could only exist in the realm of Duel Monsters.

"It's been a while since I came here." Starve Venom commented, enjoying the fresh air of her realm.

"Starve Venom! You're back in your dragon form!" Artemis exclaimed in shock as she saw Starve Venom no longer in her humanoid form. The others were equally shocked upon realizing Starve Venom has reverted to her original form.

"Must be because I'm in the spirit realm, so my soul reverted to my true form. I have to say that this is convenient, and I missed being in this form." Starve Venom said. After being in human form for a long time, it felt liberating to be in her dragon form again. Her days as humans were already over 1,500 years ago, her current human form in the human realm was only temporary, so this was her true form and she preferred to be this way.

"I have to agree." Venom said, patting Starve Venom who leaned her head for her master to touch.

"I'll carry you." Venom said, bringing her master to the top of her.

"Thanks for willing to carry us." Ifrit said as he was about to ride on the Fusion dragon, only to be thrown away back by the said dragon's tail.

"Only my Master can ride me. You walk on your own." Starve Venom hissed, which was equal to a person sticking their tongue out.

"Meanie! Don't be so stingy!" Ifrit protested, earning another hit from Starve Venom's tail.

"Enough. Where's our destination next?" Artemis asked, looking at the four pathways.

"The secret to the Last Supreme King Dragon is to the east." Ifrit pointed at the pathway directing to the east.

"I have to go somewhere else. I need to recruit a certain Duel Monster to strengthen my Deck." Benmaru said, pointing in the direction of the south pathway.

"We're in a hurry. We must reach the place and find the secret of the Last Supreme King Dragon now." Ifrit argued, disapproving of Benmaru's request.

"Then let's split up. I'll go with Benmaru. You guys can go to the east." Ginger suggested volunteering to accompany Gongenzaka so he at least won't be alone.

"That'll work. Let's meet up again here." Artemis agreed.

"Remember to be back here. The Gatekeeper is sealing off the entrance and exit until we finish our business and would only open it again from this portal. So, no matter what, we'll have to regroup here. Understand?" Ifrit reminded them, emphasizing that they must gather together again at the meadow.

No one raised an objection.

Having made up their mind, they split up and went separate ways.

BRIDGE – SOUTH – DUEL MONSTER REALM

Benmaru and Ginger arrived in front of a traditional Japanese style wooden bridge. Benmaru stopped before they crossed, making Ginger stop as well. Benmaru checked his Duel Disk, opening a file given by Lechter before they departed that showed a map and an image of a crossing swords symbol with a silhouette of cherry blossom as background. He recalled what Lechter told him before he departed.

"Gongenzaka-kun, this is a perfect chance for you to find the Duel Monster that you need."

"Recruiting a Duel Monster directly is better than trying to create a brand-new card, especially if this monster is from the spirit realm."

"I thought it's impossible because we thought humans could never step foot in that realm alive, but now that route is possible, you can try to find and recruit this Duel Monster."

"According to the archive, this Duel Monster is one of the rarest and oldest Superheavy Samurai monsters that ever lived. Many thought his existence is only a myth, but that's simply because that monster won't come out into the human realm."

"If you can convince this Duel Monster to help, he'll be a powerful ally that can overcome the limitation of your Deck in Tag Duel."

"Is that the file of the Duel Monster that you mentioned? Any picture?" Ginger asked, peaking at the file Benmaru was reading.

"Yeah. It was said that it lived somewhere in the village across this bridge." Benmaru replied, pointing at the other side of the bridge.

"It is as you said, Benmaru-dono. The samurai you're looking for is here."

Benmaru and Ginger were startled when Superheavy Samurai Big Benkei appeared behind them like he was there since the very beginning.

"B-Big Benkei?! Why are you here?!" Benmaru asked one of his monsters who somehow materialized himself.

"This is the realm of Duel Monster. I am free to be here whenever I want to, Benmaru-dono. Just like how Starve Venom reverted to her true form once entering this world." Big Benkei answered, not minding Benmaru and Ginger's surprise.

"I shall escort you to the village. Everyone is waiting for you." Big Benkei gestured to the bridge.

"Everyone?" Benmaru and Ginger repeated in question, but Big Benkei didn't answer and simply crossed the bridge, leading the two Duelists to follow in tow.

SAMURAI VILLAGE – SOUTH – DUEL MONSTER REALM

"WELCOME, BENMARU-DONO!"

Benmaru and Ginger were shocked beyond words upon arriving at the village. The village was immensely rich in nature with grand flourishing forests where lush vegetation thrives due to clean rivers and seas, brimming with various exotic fauna such as deers and boars. The houses are made from bamboo fibers and are shaped like Kabuto helmets with a chonmage on top. It was truly a Japanese style village back during the old era.

But what shocked Benmaru and Ginger was the fact that the Superheavy Samurai monsters who lived there were all bowing and greeting them (mainly Benmaru) politely, like they have been expecting them to come.

"I have told everyone beforehand that you'll come here. As the Duelist who bravely fought alongside us and defeated countless enemies, you are our pride and joy, Benmaru-dono." Big Benkei explained while escorting them.

Benmaru at first was confused as to how to react to these Superheavy Samurai monsters who either greeted him, bowed at him, or even kneeled in respect of his presence. They were cheering for his arrival like citizens welcoming their beloved rulers. Ginger was quick to recover though. He was quick to get used to it. For one thing, these Superheavy Samurai monsters reminded him of Benmaru in many ways. The way they spoke, the way they behaved, it was almost like they two cuts from the same cloth. And ironically, the only one who didn't notice this was Benmaru himself. It was amusing.

"Isn't this good, Benmaru? You should be happy that your monsters look up to you." Ginger said teasingly at the said Duelist.

"Right. All the more reason that I can't let them down!" Benmaru answered seriously.

This was the first time he could speak with his Duel Monsters. He didn't have the same ability as Yuya and his counterparts, so this was quite a surprise. Of course, he was also happy that now he was able to speak directly with his monsters. He always wondered how it was like. He was curious how his monsters feel. Now that he knew how they thought of him, Benmaru thought himself a fool for ever thinking of using Trap or Magic that would go against the way of the Superheavy Samurai.

"I'll never betray them. I'll follow the same path as them to the end!" Benmaru resolved. For that reason, he needs this Duel Monster.

"So, where is this Duel Monster?" Benmaru asked Big Benkei.

"Before we go there, I must warn you something, Benmaru-dono." Big Benkei stopped, turning to his master. "Other than you, there's someone else seeking the same power."

"Who is it?" Benmaru asked.

"He is also a Superheavy Samurai from this village, but he is an outcast. His pride causes him to refuse to fight alongside humans. You are bound to meet and fight him at the temple for that power." Big Benkei explained.

"Then, all you need to do is beat him and take that Duel Monster." Ginger said so casually, certain that Benmaru will win in the end.

"He is strong in Duel like you do, Benmaru-dono. Do not underestimate him." Big Benkei warned.

"I will. Thank you, Big Benkei." Benmaru thanked his monster.

GRAND SHRINE – SOUTH – DUEL MONSTER REALM

Benmaru, Ginger, and Big Benkei arrived at the Grand Shrine of the Superheavy Samurai monsters.

It is a shrine complex composed of many Shinto-style shrines centered on two main shrines. The shrine buildings are made of solid cypress wood and use no nails but instead joined wood. Purportedly the home of the sacred swords, the shrine is one of Superheavy Samurai's holiest and most important sites. Access to both sites is strictly limited, with the common public not allowed beyond sight of the thatched roofs of the central structures, hidden behind four tall wooden fences. However, visitors are free to roam the forest, including its ornamental walkways. Because the shrine is considered sanctuary, no security checkpoints were conducted, as it was considered sacrilege by the faithful.

"That's one big shrine." Ginger commented, mesmerized by the massive beauty of the shrine.

"I said that other than you, there are others who wishes to gain the power of the sacred one. However, it's not simple. One must prove himself worthy, and only then you'll receive his help. It is not something that can be taken by force." Big Benkei explained, walking into the shrine.

"What do I need to do to prove my worth?" Benmaru inquired while looking around the red torii gate surrounding them throughout the passageway.

"No one knows. Many have tried various ways to prove their worth, and plenty of a few who succeeded were not allowed to speak of it in exchange for attaining that power. However, the latest one who attained his help performed a Duel with someone else before gaining it." Big Benkei revealed. It was a rare occurrence for the event to happen, and he was lucky to get this information.

"So, it's possible that the way to prove our worth is by winning a Duel?" Benmaru asked again. He asked that, but he wasn't sure that was enough to prove their worth. He sensed there's something else needed to prove one's worth to this sacred Duel Monster.

"The only way to know is through Duel!"

Benmaru and the others stopped once they reached the innermost shrine where the Duel Monster resides. Before them, there was already somebody else standing in front of the shrine waiting for them. It was a tall, purple-colored mechanical droid in samurai armor wielding black-colored scabbard on its back. It wore a mask that resembles Japanese demon with a scar.

"What took you so long? I've been waiting for you!" He said, pointing at Benmaru.

"Let me guess, this is the guy you mentioned?" Ginger deduced, which Big Benkei confirmed with a nod.

"What do we have, here. To think mere human dare to step foot into this sacred ground. It is beyond my imagination how far humans' ignorance could go. Or perhaps, it was a foolishness?" The Superheavy Samurai said with hostility, glaring at Benmaru and Ginger.

"That's one energetic samurai there." Ginger commented, seeing bits of Superheavy Samurai traits in him.

"Watch your tongue, idiot! Benmaru-dono here is an honorable Duelist who always fights carrying the pride of our kind on the line! You, who never even take a glance at a human has no right to insult him!" Big Benkei defended his master, seemingly ready to take out his weapon.

"So what? We can do just fine even without those humans. We don't need them." The Superheavy Samurai retorted dismissively, not regretting even the tiniest bit of what he said.

"You sure talk big when all you did was picking pointless fights together with those samurais, do you know how much trouble you have caused?!" Big Benkei argued.

"Pointless? I'm just testing how you're faring as a samurai. And I was disappointed that you're weak. Must be because of all those times you fought alongside humans." He retorted back.

"Besides, 'those samurais' you're referring to, are our comrades. But just because you decided to try something new, you all deemed them like they are heretics. It's very stupid of you if you ask me." He added with a bitter hateful tone.

Before Big Benkei could say anything more, Benmaru raised his hand, motioning Big Benkei to say no more. Benmaru stepped forward, facing the Superheavy Samurai standing in front of him without a single sign of fear, glaring back to show his resolve that he wouldn't return until his business is finished.

"I don't know what happened between you two, but that is not why we are here. In this form, my name is Benmaru. My real name is Noboru Gongenzaka. What is your name?" Benmaru asked. It was a common courtesy to introduce oneself first before asking for the other, especially before a Duel.

"Heh, at least you know courtesy. I am Honmaru. I've heard that you'll come here, so I've been waiting for you." Honmaru pointed challengingly at Benmaru. He was already starting to become impatient. "We both want the same thing, so let's just get this over with! No more words are necessary!"

"I'll do this alone. Don't interfere." Benmaru told Ginger.

"I know. Just make this quick." Ginger said, patting Benmaru's back as a gesture of his encouragement.

Big Benkei returned to Benmaru's Deck as Benmaru prepared his Duel Disk. His opponent also materialized a Duel Disk in his arm. The instant Benmaru and Honmaru stood face-to-face at the center of the Field, flames lit up from the lanterns surrounding them.

[[MASTER DUEL!]]

"I'm taking the first Turn! I activate Continuous Magic: Gate of the Brave Six! Each time a Six Warmen Monster is Normal or Special Summoned, I can add 2 Bushido Counters on this card." Honmaru summoned a gate with a round Six Warmen insignia at the center of the gate, glowing a dim green light.

"A Spell Card?! But you're a Superheavy Samurai Monster!" Benmaru pointed out. The creed of the Superheavy Samurai is they will never use Magic or Trap, all of their Deck consisted solely of Monster cards.

"They are comrades who are willing to sacrifice their own lives for others' sake. I don't see a reason to refuse their help." Honmaru replied before continuing his Turn.

"I summon Shadow Six Warmen – Hatsume (ATK: 1600 / DEF: 1800 / LV: 3)!" Honmaru summoned a female humanoid monster wearing short purplish sleeveless yukata with hair tied in pigtails in Attack Position in the Main Zone. This added 2 Bushido Counters to Gate of Brave Six.

"On top of using Magic and Trap, you're not using Superheavy Samurai Deck?" Benmaru wondered in surprised.

"We may be of different clan, but we are still fellow samurais. Again, I don't see why we shouldn't refuse their help when they willingly give it to us." Honmaru replied.

"If I control Mizuho, I can Special Summon True Six Warmen – Shinai (ATK: 1500 / DEF: 1500 / LV: 3) from my hand!" Honmaru summoned a male humanoid blue armored samurai monster in Attack Position next to Hatsume, increasing the Bushido Counters to 4.

"If I control Shinai, I can Special Summon True Six Warmen – Mizuho from my hand!" Honmaru summoned True Six Warmen – Mizuho (ATK: 1600 / DEF: 1000 / LV: 3) in Attack Position in the Main Zone, increasing the Bushido Counters to 6.

"Appear! The circuit of the swords!" Honmaru summoned the Link Summoning circuit, placing Hatsume in Bottom-Left arrow and Mizuho in the Right-Left arrow, combining the circuit.

"Link Summon! Appear! Link 2! Great General of Six Warmen (ATK: 1000 / LNK: 2 / LM: Bottom-Right, Bottom-Left)!" Honmaru summoned his Link Monster in Attack Position in the Link Monster Zone, increasing the Bushido Counters on Gate of Brave Six to 8 counters.

"When this card is Link Summoned, I can discard one card and then add one card from my Deck to my hand that has an effect that places a Bushido Counter on this card." Honmaru added a Spell card to his hand and then activated it.

"I set a card and end my Turn." Honmaru concluded.

"My Turn! With Scale 8 Superheavy General San-B and Scale 1 Superheavy General Haku-A, I set the Pendulum Scale! With this I can simultaneously summon Level 2 to 7 monsters! Pendulum Summon! Come forth, my monsters!" Benmaru Pendulum Summoned Superheavy Samurai Horagai (ATK: 300 / DEF: 600 / LV: 3) and Superheavy Samurai Kageboshi (ATK: 500 / DEF: 1000 / LV: 3) from his hand, both in Attack Position in the Main Zone.

"Appear! My circuit!" Benmaru opened the Link Summoning Circuit, setting Hisu-E on the Top Arrow, Horagai on the Left Arrow, and the Jisha-Qs on the Bottom and Right Arrow of the Link Markers.

"Link Summon! Appear! Link 4! Superheavy Samurai Tsunayo-C (ATK: 2300 / LINK: 4 / LM: Top, Left, Bottom, Right)!" Benmaru summoned his Link Monster in Attack Position in the Link Monster Zone.

"I activate Tsunayo-C's effect! Once per Turn, this card gains 400 ATK for each Superheavy Samurai Monsters in the Graveyard!" As there were 4 Superheavy Samurai monsters in the Graveyard, Benmaru increased Tsunayo-C's ATK by 1600, making its current ATK 3900.

"Battle! I attack Great General of the Six Warmen with Tsunayo-C!" Benmaru declared Battle Phase. Tsunayo-C ready to thrust its naginata at the opposing Link Monster.

"Trap Card: Six Warmen Unannounced Visit! I can Special Summon a Six Warmen Monster from my Graveyard, but it'll be destroyed at the end of this Turn!" Honmaru revived Mizuho in Attack Position. As a Six Samurai Monster was summoned, the Bushido Counters increased to 10 counters.

"I activate Mizuho's effect! I can tribute a Six Warmen Monster on my Field and then destroy a card on the Field!" Honmaru released Shinai, pointing at the attacking Tsunayo-C. The spirit of Shinai emerged, locking Tsunayo-C's naginata before swinging down its own weapon to crush the Link Monster.

"I activate San-B's Pendulum Effect! Once per Turn, when a Superheavy Samurai Monster I control is about to be destroyed by an Effect, I can negate its destruction, but that monster's ATK is halved until the end of this Turn!" Benmaru halved Tsunayo-C's ATK to 1950. While weakened, Tsunayo-C was able to deflect Shinai's spirit's attack and proceeded with its attack towards Six Warmen Link Monster.

"I activate Great General of the Six Warmen's third effect! This card gains 100 ATK for each Bushido Counters on the Field." There was a total of 10 counters on Gate of the Brave Six and 2 counters on Great General itself since Mizuho was summoned on the zone pointed by Great General's Bottom-Right arrow, so it makes 12 counters in total, increasing Great General's ATK to 2200.

"What?!" Benmaru exclaimed in shock. He couldn't stop Tsunayo-C's attack. Tsunayo-C thrust its naginata at Great General of the Six Warmen, who blocked it with its own sword. The two Link Monsters pushed each other's blades. However, Tsunayo-C's naginata began to crack from the powerful pressure of the Great General's sword and it pushed him back.

"I activate Haku-A's Pendulum Effect! Once per Turn, I can negate the destruction of a Superheavy Samurai Monster I control during Battle Phase!" Benmaru declared. The Great General slashed Tsunayo-C's body, leaving a scar, but not deep, and Tsunayo-C retreated to its master's side.

BENMARU LP: 4000 = 3750

"I end my Turn." Benmaru concluded. Following the effect, Honmaru's Mizuho was destroyed at the end Phase and Tsunayo-C's ATK reverted to normal as well.

"That guy is not bad. Benmaru may be in trouble in the next Turn." Ginger commented while licking a lollipop.

"My Turn! I activate Magic Card: Black Arte of the Six Warmen! I can draw three cards for each Six Warmen Monster I control!" Honmaru controlled Great General, so he drew 2 cards from his Deck.

"I summon True Six Warmen – Enishi (ATK: 1700 / DEF: 700 / LV: 4)!" Honmaru summoned a green-armored samurai in Attack Position in the zone pointed by Great General's bottom-left arrow. Due to Great Genera's effect, it gains 2 Bushido Counters for each time a monster is summoned on the zone pointed by its Link Marker. And in addition to the Gate of Brave Six's effect, it gained another 2 counters, increasing the Bushido Counters on the field to 16 in total, thus, increasing the Great General's ATK to 2600.

"When I Normal or Special Summoned a Six Warmen monster, I can Special Summon True Shadow of the Six Warmen (ATK: 500 / DEF: 2000 / LV: 4) from my hand!" Honmaru summoned a purplish spirit clad in red-colored samurai armor in Attack Position, increasing the Bushido Counters to 18 in total.

"I overlay Enishi and True Shadow!" Honmaru opened the Overlay Network.

"Xyz Summon! Appear! Rank 4! Shadow of the Six Warmen – Shien (ATK: 2500 / DEF: 400 / RNK: 4 / ORU: 2)!" Honmaru summoned a red-haired male samurai monster with pale skin in Attack Position in the Main Zone, increasing the Bushido Counters to 20 in total.

"I activate Shien's effect! By detaching an Overlay Unit, I can target a Six Warmen Monster who's original ATK is below 2000. That monster's original ATK becomes 2000 until the end of this Turn!" Honmaru chose Great General. Its original ATK was 1000, and then it changed to 2000. Adding 20 Bushido Counters on the Field equals to 2000 ATK, its ATK became 4000 in total.

"I knew it. This is not going well for Benmaru." Ginger stated with a strained smile. At least Tsunayo-C couldn't be destroyed due to Haku-A's Pendulum Effect...or so he thought.

"I activate Magic Card: Cyclone! I can destroy a Trap or Magic my opponent controls! Since Pendulum Monster is treated as a Spell Card when it's in Pendulum Zone, I can destroy your Haku-A!" Honmaru pointed at Haku-A as he activated his Magic Card, destroying Benmaru's defense.

"I thought too soon." Ginger stated.

"Battle! I attack Superheavy Samurai Tsunayo-C with the Great General of Six Warmen!" Honmaru declared Battle Phase. Benmaru activated Tsunayo-C's effect to increase its ATK again to 3900. While it was still weaker than the Great General, at least the damage would be reduced to a minimum. Great General sliced Tsunayo-C into three pieces before it then exploded, pushing Benmaru back from the impact.

BENMARU LP: 3750 = 3650

However, Benmaru couldn't let his guard down yet because Honmaru still has his Xyz Monster. And he was right, Honmaru declared his second attack using his Xyz Monster. Shien slashed its sword at Benmaru who barely dodged the blade. Benmaru winced as the blade sliced his chest. Fortunately, it wasn't a deep cut.

BENMARU LP: 3650 = 1150

"I end my Turn." Honmaru concluded. "See? You're no match against me!"

"As long as I still have LP, the Duel is not over yet!" Benmaru stated firmly despite his disadvantage.

"At least you have some spirit, for a human." Honmaru praised, though still sneering at the Superheavy Samurai user.

"Why do you despise humans and the Superheavy Samurai so much?" Benmaru questioned. He became an outcast to his own clan and even constantly picked a fight with them, there must be a reason for this.

"Because they're able to accept humans but yet unable to accept the Six Warmen, their own fellow samurais." Honmaru answered.

"What do you mean?" Benmaru inquired more.

"The creed of the Superheavy Samurai clan is to fight solely using their own strength without relying on the use of Magic or Trap like you already knew. Originally, the Six Warmen were the same. They were Duel Monsters who has the same fighting style as my clan." Honmaru recalled the old times when they were still living in harmony, when they fought side by side as brothers-in-arms. It was a wonderful time. The best time he had ever experienced in his life. Until that day...

"One day, several samurais from the Superheavy Samurai clan were held hostage by a rivaling Duel Monster clan who was at war with them. They were a formidable opponent, able to disrupt our strength and took advantage of it. To save them, the Six Warmen clan discovered and developed the arte of Magic and Trap and used them to save the Superheavy Samurai clan. But instead of being grateful, my foolish clan felt insulted by the Six Warmen for breaking their creed, and they cut any ties with them. As a member of Superheavy Samurai clan, I was disgusted by what my own clan had done." Honmaru clenched his fists in fury, recalling the day when his Six Warmen friends were banished from the village. He couldn't understand what's the problem was, and in fact he didn't care. His clan was saved by them, so how come that instead of being grateful, they were admonishing them? What an ungrateful bunch.

"Isn't it funny? They're able to accept humans so easily despite their differences, but they continue to scorn the Six Warmen even though we are Duel Monsters and fellow samurais. They are hypocrites. So stupid. They're always desperate to reject anything that they can't understand." Honmaru let out a humorless chuckle as his anger began to rise.

"If everyone just goes along with the flow, then they can't come face to face with their true feelings. Not only that, but they might also even stop thinking for themselves, and that'll be a problem. Before they know it, they'll start to get controlled by the heat of time and start a fight that makes them lose important friends. I won't become like them. I will get that power and prove my friends' worth that those ungrateful members of my clan cannot deny them." Honmaru stated determinedly. He didn't care how many years it would take; he'll help his Six Warmen friends to rise again and gain the recognition that they deserve.

"So... for the sake of your friends, you're fighting so hard..." Benmaru could understand that feeling very well. He was weak against this. To Ginger and Honmaru's astonishment, Benmaru started to tear up.

"I'm completely touched! You're truly the man! Alright! I'll let you have the power!" Benmaru wailed loudly, sounding incredibly moved.

"What the hell?!" Ginger and Honmaru exclaimed in shock together, losing their footing.

"Time out! Time out! Wait just a sec there, Big Guy! Do you even know what you're saying, Ben-chan!" Ginger interrupted, not believing that this happened now of all times. He knew that despite his appearance, Benmaru was a rather sensitive person, especially when it comes to pure friendship and sport, but this was just plain stupid.

"You bastard! Are you misjudging me?! You almost gave me a heart attack from the shock! Don't make fun of me!" Honmaru equally protested by the sudden burst of emotion displayed by his opponent, completely not expecting such a reaction.

"He is truly an admirable samurai of the century!" Benmaru continued, still crying from the story.

"Get a grip, idiot!" Ginger gave the big guy his strongest kick on the face, enough to make Benmaru fall to the ground.

"Did you forget why we came all the way here?! We have too many important things that we don't want to lose! We have our own friends waiting for us!" Ginger reminded the Superheavy Samurai user. As he hoped, that snapped Benmaru from his emotional condition.

"You're right! I was too entranced by his story and determination that I lost myself for a moment there!" Benmaru wiped the remains of his tears. He was so stupid for letting his sentimentality take over him for a moment. He mustn't forget that he was also fighting for the sake of his friends.

"Are humans all like this?" Honmaru asked Ginger, sweat dropping.

"No, it's just him. He is very easy to be so emotional." Ginger answered, sweat dropping as well.

"I must agree with you about that. I can understand if they want to fight following the creed, they're so proud of, but that doesn't give them the right to treat you and your friends like that when you saved their lives. There's no meaning in having creed or pride, if they come at the cost of our friends..." Benmaru has decided to continue fighting using the Superheavy Samurai Deck that he and his family were so proud of. However, he's willing to go against the teaching if it means saving his family and friends. Pride, creed, that's something that can always be recovered. Life, however, was something that can never be replaced or recovered.

"But what you're doing is not right. The way you despise humans is not different from the way the Superheavy Samurai despise you and your friends. Instead of using force, there's a better way to reach an understanding. If you think just a little, even people living happily together even though they're poor could stop hating people they don't even know." Benmaru could sense the frustration in Honmaru's heart. He and his friends weren't even given a chance to explain themselves, so they had no choice but to use brute force to show their powers, that their powers could benefit both sides. It wasn't like they were trying to force the Superheavy Samurai clan to use the same method as them, they simply wanted acceptance.

Still...

"I understand your suffering, but I won't lose this Duel. Because just like you, I'm also fighting for the sake of my precious friends." Benmaru raised his Duel Disk, ready to begin his Turn again.

A loud thunderous lightning stopped Benmaru from beginning his Draw Phase. The three Duelists looked up to see the sky darkened. From the clouds, lightning bolts down, shaking the earth. Benmaru and the others shielded their eyes from the blinding light.

From the smoke, they saw a silhouette of a person along with an announcement from their Duel Disks.

{{DUEL INTRUSTION: BATTLE ROYAL MODE}}

Rowan emerged from the smoke, Duel Disk activated and started his Draw Phase.

"He is Apophis' offspring, Rowan!" Ginger recognized the guy from the file shared by Serena. After their encounter with Shiki at the mall, Yuno gathered the Lancers and explained to them about the Apophis offspring that they hadn't met. Although the meeting was cut short, because of an emergency that time, Yuno didn't get a chance to reveal about Kamui and Zira, which is why Sawatari, Allen, and Sayaka didn't recognize them when they first met.

"The Dragon of Calamity's offspring? Perfect timing! I'll show those Superheavy Samurais that we are strong enough to defeat an Apophis offspring!" Honmaru declared, welcoming the challenge from the said offspring.

"Is he planning to take the power too?" Benmaru wondered warily.

"My Turn! From my hand, I summon Knight of the End (ATK: 1400 / DEF: 1200 / LV: 4)!" Rowan summoned Knight of the End in Attack Position.

"When this card is summoned, I can send a DARK-Attribute monster from my Deck to the Graveyard." Rowan sent Ritual Djinn Demolisher (ATK: 1500 / DEF: 600 / LV: 3) from his Deck to his Graveyard.

"I activate Ritual Magic: Ritual of Salvation to perform Ritual Summon." Rowan revealed his Ritual Spell Card, but before he performed Ritual Summon, he pressed the screen of his Duel Disk that showed Djinn Demolisher in the Graveyard.

"When I'm about to Ritual Summon, I can banish Ritual Djinn Demolisher from my Graveyard as 1 of the monsters required for the Ritual Summon." Rowan banished Djinn Demolisher, allowing its spirit to appear by Knight of the End's side as a white altar bathed in light appeared on the Field. Both monsters became flames that lit the altar.

"I use Knight of the End and Djinn Demolisher! Ritual Summon! Appear! Level 7! Beautiful Goddess of Salvation – Northwemko (ATK: 2700 / DEF: 1200 / LV: 7)!" Rowan summoned Northwemko in Attack Position in the Main Zone.

"Battle! I attack directly with Northwemko!" Rowan pointed at Benmaru whose Field was empty due to Honmaru's previous Battle Phase. Northwemko pointed its staff towards Benmaru, shooting a bright stream of light.

"I activate Tsunayo-C's last effect! By banishing it from Graveyard, I can Special Summon all of its Link Materials from Graveyard with their effects negated and their ATKs and DEFs became 0, and then end the Battle Phase!" Benmaru declared, reviving heavily weakened Hisu-E, Jisha-Q, Horagai, and Kageboshi from his Graveyard, but allowed them to end the Battle before Northwemko's attack could reach him. His four monsters used themselves as a shield to protect him from the attack, causing their armors to crack.

"I set 2 cards and end my Turn." Rowan finished his Turn.

"What are you plotting?!" Benmaru questioned the Apophis offspring.

"We can't have you becoming stronger any more than you already have, so I obviously I came to stop you from gaining that power." Rowan answered.

"How did you even get here?! The Rift has been sealed!" Ginger questioned.

"I have no reason to answer to that question to my enemies." Rowan replied, refusing to answer.

"I knew it. Benmaru, I'll lend you a hand!" Ginger took out his Duel Disk, ready to join the Duel. However, he stopped when Benmaru held out his hand at him.

"No! This is my Duel! Don't interfere, Ginger! I can handle this!" Benmaru insisted, narrowing his eyes at Rowan. Regardless of the interference, it's still his trial to prove himself worthy to gain the power of the legendary Superheavy Samurai monster.

"I tune Hisu-E with Jisha-Q, Horagai, and Kageboshi!" Benmaru declared, performing Synchro Summon.

"Oh, steadfast fiendish divines! Grasp tightly on my fist's resolve. Become the fiend of iron and run across the battlefield. Synchro Summon! Now, come before us. Appear! Level 12! Superheavy Steam Oni Tetsudo-O (ATK: 2000 / DEF: 4800 / LV: 12)!" Benmaru summoned his strongest Monster in Defense Position in the Main Zone.

Honmaru was taken aback by the appearance of the Synchro Monster. He then realized that Benmaru could have summoned it before on his first Turn instead of summoning that Link Monster. Why didn't he do that? Was he looking down on him? Was he only playing around?

"You! Stop messing around! So, you're also like them, after all! You're looking down on us the whole time! That's why you didn't summon that Monster earlier!" Honmaru accused Benmaru furiously.

"You got it wrong. I always take my opponent seriously. The only reason I didn't summon Tetsudo-O earlier is because he didn't want me to summon him. There are times I depend on him too much, so that's why I followed his request and didn't summon him on my first Turn." Benmaru replied calmly. Tetsudo-O knew the importance of relying on all of his monsters to avoid creating an imbalance in his Deck. Benmaru was grateful for his monster to show concern for his growth as Duelist, and he trusted his monster, and thus, he agreed to his request without question. But now that a much dangerous opponent has appeared, Tetsudo-O's power is necessary to fight against the offspring.

"Tetsudo-O can attack while in Defense Position! Battle! I attack Northwemko with Tetsudo-O!" Benmaru declared Battle Phase. Tetsudo-O activated its engine, running towards the Ritual Monster with burning flames thrusting his speed.

"I activate Northwemko's effect! I can choose two Monsters my opponent controls up to the number of Ritual materials used to summon it. As long as those monsters are in the Field, Northwemko cannot be destroyed by effects!" Rowan declared, choosing Tetsudo-O and the Great General of Six Warmen as his targets.

"What's the point of activating that effect? Benmaru is going to destroy it through Battle." Ginger wondered.

"Trap Card: Northwemko's Wish! When I control Northwemko and activated its effect, I can equip this card, and Northwemko cannot be destroyed by Battle!" Rowan revealed, equipping the Trap Card to his Ritual Monster, allowing it to block Tetsudo-O's attack simply by pointing its staff at the train-like monster.

"But you still take damage!" Benmaru reminded.

ROWAN LP: 4000 = 1900

"When I take Battle Damage, I can activate Trap Card: Djinn's Three Wishes! I can choose between the effects to activate!" Rowan opened his second Trap Card. There were three effects to choose: First is to summon one Level 4 Monster from Deck in Defense Position, second is to recover LP by 500, and third is to add a Magic or Trap from Deck to hand.

"I summon a Level 4 Monster from my Deck!" Rowan summoned Hand-Holding Djinn (ATK: 1000 / DEF: 1600 / LV: 4) from his Deck in Defense Position in the Main Zone.

"While Hand-Holding Magician is on the Field, my opponent cannot attack monsters I control except this one." Rowan revealed.

"I end my Turn." Benmaru concluded. He eyed Rowan carefully. He heard that Rio and Kino once were beaten by this guy, so he mustn't let his guard down for even a second until the Duel is truly over. Going against an Apophis offspring is fighting until either one is down for good. He could die if he let himself open.

Honmaru noticed Benmaru's attention now focused solely on Rowan. It was almost like he didn't even pay attention to Honmaru anymore even though he was his opponent first. He ignored him and his friends just like that. That was insulting. He wouldn't take it. For the sake of his friends who had fought honorably by his side and those who were no longer there who met a noble death, he must offer them glory to prove that they were the best.

"My Turn! I activate Shien's effect! By detaching Overlay Unit, I can increase Great General of Six Warmen's original ATK to 2000!" Honmaru once again increased Great General's ATK and combined it with his 20 Bushido Counters, increasing the Link Monster's ATK to 4000.

"I summon Relic of the Six Warmen (ATK: 500 / DEF: 500 / LV: 3)!" Honmaru summoned the deep blue armored samurai Monster in Attack Position in the Main Zone pointed by Great General's Link Arrow, increasing the Bushido Counters by 4 due to the Link Monster's and the Continuous Magic Card's effects, increasing Great General's ATK to 4400.

"I activate Relic of Six Warmen's first effect! I can equip this card to Great General and increase its ATK by 500!" Honmaru equipped Relic to Great General, increasing the Link Monster's ATK to 4900.

"An ATK of 4900. His monster is the strongest Monster on the Field right now...!" Ginger thought. He hoped that Honmaru wouldn't target Tetsudo-O for his attack. Benmaru at the moment has no means to defend himself if Tetsudo-O is destroyed, and that'll give Rowan the chance to finish him on his Turn. Fortunately, Ginger's wish was fulfilled.

"Battle! I attack Hand-Holding Djinn with Shien!" Honmaru declared Rowan's Monster. Shien slashed the Djinn into two, destroying it. With the Djinn destroyed, Honmaru and Benmaru were now free to attack Northwemko even if it couldn't be destroyed.

"Battle! I attack Northwemko with Great General of Six Warmen!" Honmaru declared Battle Phase. The Great General stood from the sitting position and then ran towards the Ritual Monster. It couldn't be destroyed, but Rowan will still take damage. He only has 1900 LP left, so it'll be over for him once the attack connects.

"I activate Northwemko's Wish's effect. By unequipping this card, I can negate destruction by Battle and halve the damage!" Rowan unequipped the Trap Card he activated earlier, protecting Northwemko from Great General's sword that was blocked by an invisible force, and halved the strength of its attack.

ROWAN LP: 1900 = 800

"I end my Turn." Honmaru clicked his tongue at the close call. He almost got him. Since his Turn was over, Shien's effect ends, reverting Great General's ATK to 3900.

"My Turn. I activate Ritual Magic: Ritual of Massacre. By banishing Monster on my Field and my Graveyard as Ritual Materials, I can summon a Monster equal to the total Levels of the banished Monsters." Rowan banished Northwemko and Knight of the End, summoning an altar with pure black box surrounded by four lanterns with purple flames and green-colored magic circle beneath it.

"Almighty being who brings forth to the lost ones. Ascend to the world and erase the hope from the world! Ritual Summon! Appear! Level 11! God of Djinn – Garnashia (ATK: 4500 / DEF: 3000 / LV: 11)!" Rowan summoned a black-colored genie-like Monster with silver hair, wearing a transparent grey mixed with red colored robe. It had no legs, and its arms were those of beasts.

"When Garnashia is Ritual Summoned, I can target all Attack Position Monsters on the Field except itself. Those monsters are destroyed and banished. This effect cannot be negated, and all my opponent's monsters, Magic, and Trap effects are negated!" Rowan revealed as Garnashia unleashed a thunderous red cloud that strikes Honmaru's Shien and Great General, destroying them.

"No way! In an instant, he destroyed Honmaru's monsters just like that!" Benmaru was shocked. To think there're still offspring who are this strong. Their battle ahead would be much more difficult than he originally thought.

"Dammit!" Honmaru cursed. He has nothing left on his Field to defend himself.

"Battle. I attack directly with Garnashia." Rowan declared Battle Phase. Garnashia moved its cloud right above Honmaru, sending a lightning bolt down to Garnashia. The lightning was too quick for the Superheavy Samurai to dodge.

HONMARU LP: 4000 = 0

Honmaru was lying on the ground. He was struggling to get up from the attack. A difficult feat because his body was paralyzed. He was almost close to black out.

"I set a card and end my Turn." Rowan concluded.

"Honmaru!" Benmaru exclaimed in concern. He ran towards the fallen Superheavy Samurai to help. However, when he tried to help him stand, the Samurai slapped his hand away, refusing to help.

"We're enemies! I don't need your pity! You fight with regard for your opponent's life. How can you use your full strength like that? I trained together with my friends on the edge between life and death just for this! Don't insult us with your sympathy!" Honmaru yelled sharply at Benmaru. He mustered up all of his strength to stand up, standing wobbly, but still raised his Duel Disk, ready to restart.

"I will win this Duel and prove our worth!" Honmaru stated firmly.

"You are wrong, Honmaru." Benmaru told the weakened Superheavy Samurai Monster, earning him a glare from the said Monster.

"With that Deck, you are strong. But inside, your heart is weak. I understand you want to give your friends the glory they deserve. But that exactly what makes your heart weak." Benmaru said, turning his back on Honmaru to return to his spot.

"What was that?!" Honmaru spat out angrily at Benmaru.

"Right now, you're not fighting for the sake of your friends! You're unleashing your hatred because of them! You have lost your way!" Benmaru pointed his finger at Honmaru to emphasize his meaning, taking Honmaru aback.

"Of course, this also goes the same for Big Benkei and the other Superheavy Samurai monsters in the village. They have also got their prides into their heads that they have forgotten the kinship they have with you and your friends. There shouldn't be any reason for the same kind to hate one another! What about their rules, their creed, though you might howl about it all the time, those are nothing but empty words! Instead of continuing to live in conflict, you should think about what you can do for the future together!"

Benmaru learned from the war last year and the battle before this. Synchro Dimension was almost destroyed because back then the citizens were divided into Commons and Tops that tried to take down one another. If Yuya and Jack didn't interfere, either Roget or Academia would have brought hell to earth. And then, Cantidel. They were divided between the nobility, reformist, and the neutral faction. Again, they would be in a much bigger mess if only the Lancers and Yuno didn't interfere and unite the whole factions.

"All of you want the same thing: to protect the ones and the home you care for. Then, wouldn't it be better if you protected them together? If you really are a samurai, then you must know what the best path is to protect what is precious to you, without straying from your way."

They all have a common enemy, so why would they fight against each other when they could have worked together to protect their world? It's the same for these samurais. Maybe it's not his place to say that since he's a human and not even one you can consider a true samurai, but as someone who also has people and home he wishes to protect, he wishes to help them in any way he can.

As Benmaru prepared to start his Turn, the altar from the inner shrine started to shine, letting out blue-colored light. The orb of light came out from the altar and floated above the three Duelists. The flame briefly took form of a Superheavy Samurai Monster with full-bodied grey armor with red parts designed to look like exposed muscle tissue, as well as back armor that resembles a spine. It also wore a menacing helmet with the appearance of a skeletal demon. Its gauntlets are black and its hakama tucked into its dark green greaves with gold decorations.

"I have been waiting for the one who is able to reach and embrace that answer. You're able to understand the true essence of our kind, and thus, you have proven your worth. I shall lend you my power for the fight that is to come."

The Superheavy Samurai Monster went into Benmaru's Deck, accepting him as its wielder. Benmaru could feel the surge of power coming from his Deck. He might be able to win with this power now.

"Thank you." Benmaru thanked his new Monster.

"You sure got some spunk and head, for a human."

Benmaru turned to Honmaru who fell on his knees, his legs had given up from Benmaru's outburst earlier. He hated to admit it, but the human was right. Honmaru was rendered speechless by his words. He couldn't think of anything to retort his every word. The fact that he took it seriously and was unable to deny it, was the proof that he knew what Benmaru was saying was true, and he admitted it. He was too clouded by the need to succeed that he overlooked what's the most important. What he did wouldn't bring glory for his friends, it'll just worsen the rift between them and the Superheavy Samurai monsters.

"...I guess I'll lend you a hand and observe you..." Honmaru turned into an orb of light that went into Benmaru's Deck, effectively surrendering the Duel.

"My Turn! I summon Superheavy Samurai Honmaru (ATK: 200 / DEF: 1400 / LV: 3)!" Benmaru summoned Honmaru in Defense Position in the Main Zone next to Tetsudo-O.

"When Honmaru is Normal Summoned, it can be treated as two Monsters. With this, I open the circuit!" Benmaru summoned the Link Summoning Circuit, confirming the arrowhead and setting Honmaru in the Link Markers, combining the circuit.

"Link Summon! Apppear! Link 2! Superheavy Samurai Aku-B (ATK: 2000 / LINK: 2 / LM: Bottom, Right)!" Benmaru summoned his new Link Monster in Attack Position in the Link Monster Zone.

"I activate Aku-B's first effect! When this card is Link Summoned, I can negate the effects of all monsters my opponent controls on the Field!" Benmaru declared. Aku-B threw one of its swords, stabbing the genie-like Monster in its abdomen.

"Battle! I attack Garnashia with Tetsudo-O!" Benmaru declared Battle Phase. Tetsudo-O once again charged forward at the Ritual Monster, hitting it at full speed. Garnashia caught Tetsudo-O with its bare hands and tried to push it back, but Tetsudo-O's force was too powerful for the Ritual Monster to endure, eventually striking it down.

ROWAN LP: 800 = 500

"You got it, Benmaru! Now all that left is use Aku-B to–" Ginger cheered, thinking that Benmaru got this. He expected Benmaru then to use Aku-B to declare Direct Attack and end Garnashia's LP. However...

"I activate Garnashia's second effect." Rowan declared calmly the moment Garnashia left the Field.

"What?!" Benmaru exclaimed, not expecting Rowan to activate an effect now.

"Once per Turn, when Garnashia leaves the Field, I can banish the opposing Monster!" Rowan revealed, pointing at Tetsudo-O who was caught by Garnashia's haunting spirit's giant hands. The spirit of the Ritual Monster crushed the Synchro Monster until it exploded, destroying it.

"Impossible!" Benmaru yelled out in dismay at his Monster's destruction. He quickly tried to regain his composure, reminding himself he still has Honmaru by his side. Unfortunately, his last hope was immediately crushed like his Tetsudo-O earlier.

"And then I can inflict damage equal to half the original ATK of the banished Monster!" Rowan added. Garnashia's spirit turned to Benmaru. Using its right fist, it threw Benmaru flying up, reducing his remaining LP.

"Darn it! I can't fall now! I can't die yet...!"

BENMARU LP: 1150 = 0

"Benmaru!" Ginger rushed into the field as Benmaru fell flat to the ground, coughing out blood from the impact and barely conscious. His entire body was hurt. While it wasn't his real body, he was positive that it'll still feel hurt once he returned to the real world.

"He is getting too cocky just because he gained two new Monsters. He let himself open. What a fool." Rowan stated coldly.

Ginger gasped when Rowan was approaching. Ginger stood protectively in front of Benmaru, glaring at the Apophis offspring. He clicked the screen of his Duel Disk, sending a message back to the HQ. Their little trip has just turned unexpectedly worse than he imagined.

"I'm your next opponent!" Ginger challenged the Apophis offspring, activating his Duel Disk.

CAVE OF DESIRE – MOUNTAIN – MILLIA TOWN – CANTIDEL EMPIRE – ARC-V

When Yuzu entered the cave, at first, it was all pitch black, she couldn't see anything. But then, the deeper she walked, it started to get brighter and brighter until she was standing in an infinitely vast sky. It was so beautiful. It was so warm. The atmosphere was serene. It felt good.

"Yuzu!"

Yuzu gasped when she heard the voice calling her name. The voice she has been longing to hear. The voice she thought she could never hear ever again. Countless bubbles then appeared. Each of the bubbles showed reflections of her memories with Yuya. She even could hear his voice from them. She watched them one by one. She touched them, and it was like she was reliving those moments all over again, facing Yuya like he was still alive.

"Yeah, I may behave differently with you in front of other guys aside from Gongenzaka, but you're still my best childhood friend."

This one was when they were children. Yuya refused her valentine chocolate because he didn't want to be made fun of by other boys, but then he quickly apologized and ate all of it in gratitude.

"Yuzu…! I'm glad. We finally met. We're finally… Yuzu…!"

This one was when they were reunited after being separated in Synchro Dimension. Before she could even feel relieved, he rushed and hugged her tightly. It took a few seconds for her to snap out from her stupor before returning his hug and accepting his warmth.

"It's time to fulfill that promise."

This one was when she and Yuya faced each other at the final of the Maiami Championship last year. Both of them were determined to fulfil Zarc and Ray's last wish and duke it all out. Despite her best efforts, she was still lost against him. But the Duel was fun, so she didn't mind. She was very happy for him and promised that she'd catch up to him soon.

"I've just realized this after our Duel in Maiami Championship a year ago… We were so close since we were young…that I took it for granted and was late to realize it…"

This one was when he first tried to confess to her properly after infiltrating the underground prison. She was so nervous hearing what he was trying to say to her. Her heart beating faster and faster, only for Yukiya to interrupt right at the most important moment.

"Do you…want to go out…somewhere with…just the…the two…of us…?"

This one was when he finally confessed his feelings to her. All her nervousness that she had before disappeared in the blink of an eye, and all she felt at that moment was immense happiness. She almost thought it was merely a dream. It was one of the best days of her life.

Yuzu fell on her knees, hugging herself while tears falling uncontrollably from her eyes. She sobbed as she saw more of her memories with her most precious person. Each and every one of them were so precious to her. She could relive this moment over and over again.

If it means she could hear his voice again. If it means she could see his smile again...

"I want to stay here forever..." Yuzu thought while watching more of her memories. She didn't want to leave. She wanted to be with Yuya. This place gave that chance to her.

"Now, that's a very sad soul you have."

Yuzu gasped when a loud voice echoed throughout the place. She almost fell from the shock.

There was a presence behind her.

Turning around, Yuzu saw the person she didn't expect to see.

"You're..."

FOREST – EAST – DUEL MONSTER REALM

Venom and the others have been walking for an hour now, but they're still stuck in the forest, it's started to become tiring for them to walk...maybe except for Venom who was still carried by Starve Venom, looking completely fine. They frequently asked Ifrit if they were really going the right way, and the Crimson Duelists' answer was always the same: Yes, they are, just follow him. And that brought another question for them. How did he know where to go in the first place?

"Alright, stop." Ifrit said, stopping them from their tracks. The path was split again into two paths. And between those two paths stood a Holy Elf, smiling gently at them.

"Welcome, travelers. I have been expecting you." The Holy Elf said, greeting them.

"Wait, you know why we're here?" Artemis asked, feeling suspicious. Even though they're the same Holy Elf as Haruna, she's still unsure. After all, even if they're the same archetype, each Duel Monsters could still be different from one another, like humans are.

"We don't know exactly why you came here. However, we have received a dream that five souls who seek to save the world will come. We, Holy Elves, always wish for the safety of the world, be it the spirit realm or the human realm. Therefore, if there's anything that we, the Holy Elves, can be assistance of, we will gladly give you our help." The Holy Elf explained, joining her hands together in prayer.

"Then, can you please guide us to where we can find the secret of the Last Supreme King Dragon?" Ifrit inquired, to which she replied with a nod.

"Please, follow me–" Holy Elf stopped upon seeing Venom. She stared at him while slowly walking closer until she gently held both sides of his face, confusing Venom and the others.

"W-what are you doing?" Artemis asked, somehow not liking Holy Elf holding her friend like that.

"My apologies. I didn't mean to be rude." The Holy Elf quickly let go of Venom who just stared at the Duel Monster in bewilderment. Her next words, however, got him off from his dragon's hand and back to his feet. "Last night, there's this dragon passing by while carrying a human boy who has similar soul as you who is in the state of neither alive nor dead."

Artemis and the others looked at each other, particularly Artemis and Venom. They stood closer to the Holy Elf, demanding more information.

"This dragon...what does it look like?" Venom asked, feeling a bit nervous inside.

"Its body is red, it has a big blue jewel in its stomach, and two different colored eyes." The Holy Elf answered, blinking at the change of attitude of her two visitors.

Venom and Artemis felt their bodies tensed from various emotions. They stared at each other, both wearing the same expression along with one feeling emerging in their chest that they thought had disappeared since that night. Hope. The two of them were at a loss for words and struggled to get them out. Finally, Venom was the first to regain his voice and get the words out of his mouth.

"Yuya and Odd-Eyes...are here...?"


NEXT CHAPTER PREVIEW:

Resolve to Let Go – Yuri and Starve Venom decides to follow the trail where Yuya and Odd-Eyes are said to have been seen while Serena, Kino and Ifrit go to the village of Holy Elves. At the human realm, sensing the danger occurring in the Duel Monster realm, Sara follows Yuzu into the Cave of Desire with Ray's guidance to help her.


Next, things will start getting intense again, but less depressing. And then there's the matter of Yuya and Odd-Eyes... You'll know soon enough what happened to them!

Please don't forget to review this chapter!