"Stop wasting time, Tanner! Get over here!" The voice of Amanda exclaimed with a frantic tone, shoving her companion into an alleyway, where Frank had already hidden himself in.

Pushing him further into the alleyway so they could be concealed, Amanda peaked her head out slightly to make sure the coast was clear. Glancing around the now chaotic streets of the City, she wiped a drop of sweat off her face.

"We're safe."

"H-Hey...Frank, Amanda." Tanner spoke up with a stutter. The two aforementioned children glanced at the younger boy. They both gasped as they saw tears creeping at the edge of his eyes.

"Tanner…" Frank mused the name of the crying boy. "Hey. Hey, come on! Wipe those tears off your face. Everything is going to be alright! Crow is looking for the three of us. I know he is!"

"I-I know…" Tanner sniffled, the sad expression on his face still prominent.

"Then why are you crying?"

"I...I'm just scared. This is all happening so fast...I don't even know what's going on right now!" He sobbed, the sudden reality of what was going on around him being too much. "I knew there was bad blood between the Tops and Commons. But, I didn't think it would ever get to this point…" Tanner looked out of the alleyway, seeing the rioting Commons fight against Security, whether it'd be through Dueling or through fists.

Amanda and Frank then realized what was getting Tanner down. Upon this realization, they both wore faces of understanding. Deep down, they were feeling the same way. Commons or not, they were still kids. And the shit that was going on right now was still too much to comprehend.

"I think all of the Commons feel that way deep down, Tanner." Amanda said suddenly. Frank raised an eyebrow towards, giving her a look of incredulity. "No one asked for this conflict. None of the Commons didn't want to be treated like trash. Everything that's happening...everyone wants it to stop."

"Huh?" Frank's eyebrows furrowed. "You're not being serious, are you? If you seriously think that way, then…" He trailed off as he realized what Amanda was doing. She didn't truly think that. She was trying to calm Tanner down. With a sigh, he spoke, "It is a possibility. But Tanner, you have nothing to worry about. Crow is coming!"

Tanner finally wiped his eyes, nodding his head in agreement. Crow was doing his best to find him as they spoke. And Crow would not want him crying like a baby at a moment like this.

He had to remain strong…

"Hey, you three!" A voice spoke suddenly. The three children paled as they looked to the entrance to the alleyway. Standing in front of them, their face and body enveloped by shadows, was a Security Officer. Immediately, the three of them huddled together. "Put your hands up. By order of the Security Bureau and our ruler Jean-Michel Roget-sama, all Commons are hereby under arrest for treason and rebellion!"

Tanner widened his eyes out of fear as he and the other two kids began to trek backwards. In response, the Security Officer would step forwards with each step that they took, not letting them out of his sight.

"Resistance is futile. Surrender yourselves now to save us the trouble of getting our hands dirty." The brainwashed man spoke with an emotionless tone.

Frank grit his teeth out of irritation. He could not stand for this. He couldn't just back up against a wall he couldn't climb, not when the lives of Amanda and Tanner were also at stake. He took a strong step forward, or at least an attempt of a strong step. He made the bravest face he could muster, and with a deep breath, he voiced his opposition.

"No!"

"What did you say, boy?"

"I said no! We're not giving ourselves up to you!"

"Foolish brat. You should know your place in this world. You are a kid, and a Commons. That means you are at the bottom. The lowest of the low. The bottom feeders that pick up for the ones at the top."

"It doesn't matter if I am as low as trash. I'm not just going to sit around and let you Tops bully us around, especially when you get these two involved!" Frank exclaimed, referring to his two lifelong companions. "They're like brother and sister to me. I can't abandon those ties, not when I am able to protect them. No matter how bad it may seem, I will fight you! Hell, I'll fight every single one of your kind!"

The mindless man gave Frank a blank stare. Perhaps one of incredulity, or perhaps a look of no emotion at all. "How interesting. The Tops are supposed to be superior in nearly every way to the Commons. Yet, it seems that one of the only things that the Commons have over the Tops is their annoying stubbornness and unwillingness to lie down. What a bunch of insightful rabid dogs!" The member of Security raised his Duel Disk as he walked towards Frank slowly and menacingly. Despite this threatening waltz, Frank did not waver. He did not move from his spot one bit.

A drop of sweat rolled down his face, however, betraying his actions that had showcased his determination and apparent lack of fear. Am I...going to fall here? Is this the end of the line for the three of us? It can't be...it just can't. Frank shut his eyes, awaiting the worst possible fate to be bestowed upon him, when suddenly he saw a white flash of light fill up the dark depths of his eyelids, followed by a single declaration coming from an all too familiar voice.

"Take flight, Assault Black Feather - Raikiri the Sudden Shower!"

The purple-armored Monster flew into the depths of the alleyway, crashing down to the ground in between Frank and the Security member.

The eyes of Frank, Amanda, and Tanner all shot up as they immediately recognized the Monster, remembering the only person who used those Monsters.

"Crow!" They all cheered in harmony.

"I didn't think my distaste for you Tops scum could go any deeper than the average Commons. But, I stand corrected." Crow spoke, the headlights of his d-wheel illuminating the alley, revealing his angry figure. "I'm absolutely pissed off right now!"

"Give him hell, Crow!" Tanner blurted out, surprising Frank and Amanda.

"Got it!" Crow gave him a thumbs up, his anger ceding slightly at seeing his precious children alright. Redirecting his attention to his opponent, he sharpened his gaze. "Alright, you bastard. I assume you're not gonna let down without a fight. So, I'm gonna have to resort to actual force." Jumping off his d-wheel, Crow punched his open palm as he cracked his knuckles.

Running forward, Crow raised his hand, forming a fist as he thrusted it forward towards the Security Officer, who was too slow to even react. The fist landed in the man's gut, impacting so hard that all of the wind was blown out of his lungs. Crumpling to the ground from the blow, the officer soon lost consciousness.

Taking a sigh of relief, Crow turned to the three children he has watched over for years. He crouched down as they all ran to him, embracing him in a tight hug, a feeling of security coming down on all three of them now that their guardian was here.

"Are you guys alright?" Crow asked. To the kids, it was like the sun was shining down on them, protecting them no matter where they went with it's watchful gaze.

"Yes." The three said in unison.

Crow once again let out a sigh of relief as silence flowed throughout the alleyway, betrayed only by the loud sounds of rebellion raging around the city.

Finally, Crow snapped. The three kids each let out a cry of pain as the Black Feather user smacked them on top of the head.

"You idiots! Do you have any idea how worried I've been?!" Crow demanded with an angry expression on his face, glaring at the three children who were grimacing and pressing down on the area of their head that was throbbing. "You should have stayed at home! Why did you guys have to risk your livelihood by trying to watch my match?

"We-We're sorry, Crow!" Frank apologized with tears streaming down his face. "We just wanted to support you!"

"You guys don't get it, do you? You guys don't need to be watching to support me! As long as you guys are around, I have all the support I need. You guys are my reason for fighting. If I lost you guys...I don't know what I'd do…" Crow mumbled, his voice cracking slightly from all of the emotions running wild in his head.

"C-Crow…" Amanda opened her eyes, suddenly ignoring the pain as she comprehended her guardian's words.

Standing up to his full height, Crow rubbed his face, turning towards the entrance to the alleyway. "Come with me, I need to get you guys to a safe place. I know a guy who'll take care of you. He was supposed to come and find you, but I guess I found you guys first."

"What will you do then?" Tanner asked.

"I need to help stop the rest of the rioting." He answered. While it was true that the alliance between the Tops and the Commons had quelled the fighting for the most part, there were still some small groups that were fighting, particularly the Commons against brainwashed members of Security.

He narrowed his eyes.

"The Lancers are doing their best, but they need all the help they can get to finally bring peace to this place."


Later-At the Stadium

Yugo let out a frustrated sigh as he parked his d-wheel next to a secluded watching area with a TV screen displaying the matches of the Friendship Cup. Soon, it would be playing the long-awaited Grand Finals. This year, it would be between Jack Atlas and Yugo's lookalike Yuto.

The Speedroid Duelist was happy for Yuto. He truly was, but a part of him held jealousy towards his counterpart for the sole face that he couldn't keep the promise he made. This was his big chance, and he blew it. The chance to fight against Jack Atlas.

Rin...He thought as he looked at the screen aimlessly.

"Yugo? Is that you?" A familiar voice snapped Yugo out of his session of silent brooding. He turned to the source to see Sawatari Shingo walking towards him with an interested look on his face.

"Sawatari!" Yugo exclaimed, remembering the boy from his match with him in the first round of battles in the tournament. He recalled that he got sent to the underground area, but it seems that he escaped like many other people did.

"I saw your match with Yuto. You put up one hell of a fight!" Sawatari applauded his former opponent. "You know, I'd never say this to anyone else, but I couldn't up that much of a fight against him when we first met."

Yugo looked at the boy in front of him with a fixed tone. While he didn't know that much about Sawatari, he didn't seem like the type of person to admit his losses and failures like that. He seemed like a very prideful person who was very confident in his Dueling skills.

"Yuto?"

"Hmm?"

Yugo looked past Sawatari to see a long-haired girl with purple eyes looking at him.

"Oh, you're Yugo. Sorry about that!" The girl gave him an apologetic expression.

Normally Yugo would be pissed that someone got his name wrong, but the way this girl apologized immediately wiped away all of his anger.

"Don't worry about it...ehh...Serena? Yuzu?" Yugo wracked his brain for a name, trying to match to a face he has seen many times.

"Kurosaki Ruri." The girl supplied.

"Hah?! You're the sister of that scary bird dude?!" Yugo exclaimed with a shocked expression. A lightbulb lit up in his brain when he remembered the Duel between the two siblings. "That's right...I do remember you winning against him."

He continued to stare aimlessly into her eyes. A sad expression came onto his face.

"I look like Rin, don't I?" The girl identified as Ruri asked.

"You know Rin?" Yugo widened his eyes with surprise and a hint of joy.

"Yes." Rin's Xyz counterpart nodded. "She and I were both prisoners of Academia. We both managed to escape but it seems that she got recaptured. I'm sorry I wasn't able to protect her..." With a sincere tone in her voice, Ruri gave Yugo a bow to further emphasize her apology.

Yugo then thought back to his Duel with the brainwashed Rin. He had remembered a lot of people being there, to the point where he couldn't really remember everyone. Apparently, Ruri was there also.

"It's okay, cause I'm gonna bring her back." Yugo assured her with a confident smile. "Whatever it takes, she's gonna come home with me some day!"

Sawatari sighed at the boy's determination. "Such a one-tracked mind…"

"What was that?!"

"Enough!" Yugo and Sawatari turned their heads to see Tokumatsu glaring at them. "You guys need to stop bickering before I-"

"Enjoy Chojiro!" Yugo exclaimed with a relieved tone as he jumped onto the man in a flash, causing him to fall onto the ground from the force of the hug. "Man, I'm so glad that you're okay!"

"Oi, brat! I have a broken arm here!" Tokumatsu shouted, gritting his teeth from the pain running through the arm in his cast.

"Oh! Please forgive me!" Yugo immediately got off and helped the old man to his feet, taking a deep, exaggerated bow.

"No use worrying about it now." Tokumatsu said, crossing his arms. "Boy, your match with Yuto was quite good. I can feel a strong conviction inside of you. A strong will ready to carry out any task you give yourself."

Yugo turned slightly away from Tokumatsu in order to hide his face, but it was to no avail as everyone could see the ecstatic expression on his face. "Hell yes, I've just been praised by Enjoy Chojiro himself!"

Tokumatsu sighed at the childlike demeanor of the boy. This boy was the one who put up such a fight against Yuto, who beat Ruri, who beat Chojiro himself? It was almost impossible to believe.

"Hey, brats!" Tokumatsu glanced behind him, making sure the three kids were there. "Don't go running off on me. Crow entrusted me with keeping you three safe. Now that he's brought you guys, you're under my watch!"

"We understand." Amanda spoke for the three, speaking with a polite tone.

The Cardian user nodded towards them, turning his attention to the TV screen. "To think that I would be watching the final match of the Friendship Cup after being thrown into prison. This is a once in a lifetime situation. This day...is a monumental day in the history of this city. Change is coming. The City will never be the same, for better or worse. No matter what happens, I am glad to be able to see it. Kurosaki Ruri…" Ruri made a sound of surprise at hearing her name. "You let me have this chance. I...am grateful."

"Tokumatsu-san…" The Xyz user murmured. She never knew that the man felt this way. She didn't think that he took their Duel to heart that much. She wasn't even the one to come up with the prison escape, yet he was still crediting her for saving him.

"Watch carefully, Ruri. Your friend Yuto holds the state of the relationship between the Tops and the Commons in his hands." Tokumatsu told her. "The outcome of this Duel will determine the future of the City."

Ruri frowned at that statement as the reality of what was at stake once again dawned on her.

Yuto, you need to win this...for the sake of the people of this city.

"Now then," Melissa Claire's voice boomed throughout the City, catching the attention of Yugo, Ruri, Tokumatsu, the other Lancers, and even a small portion of the remaining rioters. "After a short break, we can finally get to the grand finale of the Friendship Cup! Going up against our King is the winner of the last match and Duelist from the Exhibition Match, Yuto!"

There was mixed reception for Yuto, who was already on the field. Many people cheered for him because they hoped that he would defeat Jack. Others booed at him for trying to claim that his Duels were for entertainment despite his tendency for anger in his Duels as seen with his bout with Ruri.

Regardless of the reception that he got, Yuto would still carry on. It did not matter how the public felt about him right now, as long as he could reach their hearts through this Duel, then that would be enough. He made a promise…

"Smiles...give everyone smiles…"

He made a promise to Yuya that night. And even though Yuya was back, that doesn't mean he's going to go back on it.

Yuya...you changed me that night with your words. And though I never told you, I got a glimpse of some of your memories and feelings. I saw how your father left for my dimension 3 years ago, leaving you and your mother alone. Seeing your experiences, they...changed me. Before I met you, I was slipping. My best friend was giving into rage and becoming someone I didn't even know. The girl I loved was kidnapped. And all my other friends were going through Hell. I...was lost. However, I found my way again because of you. For that reason, I will bring smiles to this City. I will help others find their way like you have helped me.

Melissa broke Yuto out of his thoughts at the sound of another announcement. "Now, coming out to once again face Yuto! It's our King, Jack Atlas!"

Numerous groups in the audience began to cheer at the top of their lungs as the white d-wheel of Jack Atlas came speeding out into the stadium, jumping out from a cloud of smoke.

Boosting off towards his opponent, he slowed slightly as he held up a single finger, looking up to the audience.

"There is only one King, and it's me!" He boldly declared. This declaration only served to increase the intensity of the cheers he was receiving.

"YEAH! JACK!" A random Tops in the audience yelled out among the cheers.

"As expected of our King, the pride of the City, Jack Atlas! Just by making his entrance, he has already captured the hearts of our audience! After swiftly taking out Yuto and showing a fierce battle against Akaba Reiji and also leading the battle against our invaders, what kind of Duel will the King show us today in the final match?!"

He slowed to a halt when he reached the starting line, parking on Yuto's left.

Yuto took that moment to glance at Jack, a serious and determined expression on his face. However, what Jack said to him made him falter slightly.

"Your eyes...they are not as conceited as before. However, you are still lost in the storm on the mountain." Jack said with an almost disappointed tone but a quite neutral face to contrast. "As you are now, you could never go past the summit I stand upon!"

"I've come as high as I have because I'm carrying the power and feelings of the people who have lost in this tournament. Crow, Shinji, Ruri, Shun, Yugo, Sawatari, and everyone else! I'm here because of their feelings!" Throughout the City, Yuto's voice was booming as there were multiple screens and speakers projecting his voice. Crow and Shinji both let out sounds of surprise as they heard their names in Yuto's short speech. "So, right here and now, with their feelings entrusted in me, I am going to take you down, Jack Atlas!"

Jack looked away and closed his eyes. "The true King must always carry with him the feelings of those who were defeated. If that's how you feel, then stand proud. Be a man worthy of challenging the King, Yuto!"

After Melissa finished a speech about how this was the most interesting Grand Finals in the history of the Friendship Cup, she finally declared the start of the match.

"Action Field, on! Crossover Accel!"

Duel Mode! Auto-pilot! Stand-by!

Once again, like with all other matches, a large clock appeared in front of Yuto and Jack, counting down from 3.

3.

2.

"Riding Dueeeeeel!"

1…

"Acceleration!"

Yuto and Jack punched the engines, boosting off in a flash. And thus, the very last match of the Friendship Cup finally began.

"DUEL!" Yuto and Jack exclaimed in unison.

The race for the first turn was usually a close bout. However, being far more experienced than Yuto, Jack easily left the Phantom Knights user in the dust, taking the first turn.

"The first turn is mine!" Jack declared as he held up a Card from his Hand. "To start, I will Summon Red Sprinter to the Field!" A red-colored beast with purple horns appeared in a flash of light.

Red Sprinter: Level 4, 1700 Atk, 1200 Def

"If Red Sprinter is the only Monster on my Field, I can Special Summon a level 3 or lower Tuner Monster from my Hand! Come out, Red Resonator!" Jack shouted as he slammed the Card onto his Duel Disk, bringing out his flaming red Monster.

Red Resonator: Level 2, 600 Atk, 200 Def

Wait! This opening combination…Yuto widened his eyes out of realization.

"Now, I tune Red Sprinter with Red Resonator! The crimson souls shall become one. All shall tremble before the king's might!" Jack chanted as Red Sprinter turned into four white stars of light, all lining up into two green rings formed by Red Resonator. Then, a flash of light surged through the two rings, enveloping the four stars as Jack's Monster began to take shape. "Synchro Summon! Appear, Red Wyvern!"

Red Wyvern: Level 6, 2400 Atk, 2000 Def

"Jack has not only taken the first turn, but he's managed to bring out a Synchro Monster as well." Melissa reported, spectating the Duel from above in a helicopter. Her eyes widened when she noticed something. "Wait, aren't these the same moves that he made in the Exhibition Match?"

It's as I thought. Yuto thought with narrowed eyes. Jack is testing me. How much have you grown since then? That's what he is asking me.

"I set two Cards facedown and end my turn." Jack inserted two Cards into Magic and Trap Zone. Then, as if he was answering Yuto's thoughts, he looked back and spoke. "Now Yuto, I will judge your Dueling."

"Alright, I'll show it to you! With the power I've received from my comrades, and the Dueling I've inherited from my friend, I'll unite the people of the City and make them smile."

Jack took his gaze off of his opponent, as if he was disgusted with his answer. Quietly, he mumbled the words that Yuto gave him. "Power from my comrades? Inherited Dueling?"

"My turn!" Yuto continued, placing his hand on his Deck and drawing. "I activate the Magic Card Phantom Knights Armory! With this, I can add a Phantom Knights Magic or Trap Card to my Hand by sending two Phantom Knights Cards to the Grave."

Yuto sent Phantom Knights Secret Arsenal and Phantom Knights Stained Greaves to his Graveyard. In return, he added Phantom Knights Tomb Shield to his Hand.

"Ladies and Gentlemen!" Yuto shouted, spreading his arms, a sight that many found displeasing.

Sawatari facepalmed. "It doesn't sound right at all coming from him..." Yugo gave a small nod of agreement, cringing from Yuto's use of the phrase.

"Do not worry, because I'm not done just yet! When Phantom Knights Secret Arsenal is sent to the Graveyard, I get to add a Phantom Knights Card from my Deck to my Hand. I add Phantom Knights Ragged Gloves." Yuto said, taking a Card out of his Deck as it began to shuffle itself. "Now, I choose to Summon him."

Ragged Gloves: Level 3, 1000 Atk, 500 Def

"I now activate the Graveyard effect of Phantom Knights Stained Greaves!" He declared, removing the Card from the Graveyard. "By banishing this Card, I can a Special Summon a Phantom Knights Monster from my Hand, and if I choose to, I can increase its level by 1. Come out, Phantom Knights Tear Scale!"

Tear Scale: Level 3, 600 Atk, 1600 Def

"Next, I overlay the level 3 Ragged Gloves and Tear Scale." Yuto raised his arm into the air. His Monsters glowed yellow as they flew into a portal that opened in front of him. "Souls of knights who fell on the battlefield. Revive here and now, and become the light that breaks the darkness! Xyz Summon! Appear! Rank 3! Phantom Knights Break Sword!"

The knighted warrior galloped onto the Field, holding out his spear in a threatening manner.

Break Sword: Rank 3, 2000 Atk, 1000 Def

"Now, when Ragged Gloves is used as Xyz Material, the Xyz Summoned Monster gains 1000 Attack until the end of the turn." Yuto explained with a smile, whether it was forced or not remained to be seen.

Ragged Gloves: 2000-3000 Atk

Shingo frowned as he continued to watch the Duel. "This isn't right. He is not Sakaki Yuya. Why does he continue trying to be like him? His Deck and style do not fit Entertainment Dueling at all."

"It's time to battle! Phantom Knights Break Sword, attack Red Wyvern!" Break Sword's trusty steed let out a cry as it charged forward at great speeds with the knight holding out his spear.

"And this is why I said your style of Dueling is all over the place!" Jack shouted at the top of his lungs, swiping his hand across his Duel Disk as one of his facedown Cards was revealed. "Trap Card, activate! King's Synchro! If a Synchro Monster I control is targeted for an attack, I can target that Synchro Monster and a Tuner Monster in my Graveyard. Then, the attack is negated!"

As he spoke, Red Wyvern shot upwards, avoiding Break Sword's attack as the knight wheeled back around to Yuto's side. A ghostly image of Red Resonator appeared right next to Red Wyvern.

"Now, I get to perform a Synchro Summon using these two targets. However, the two of them are banished." Red Resonator once again turned into two rings as Red Wyvern turned into six stars traveling through the rings.

"Could it be...Scarlight?" Yuto mumbled as he witnessed the process of the Synchro Summon. However, when he heard the chant, he realized that he was not right at all.

"The King's determination is conceived with a flame that burns red and becomes a crimson blade! Appear from beyond the burning hot waves." A wave of green light flushed through the rings, enveloping the stars. "Synchro Summon! The burning fierce god, Crimson Blader!"

A crimson armored Monster with large dual blades appeared to the Field.

Crimson Blader: Level 8, 2800 Atk, 2600 Def

"What's this?" Melissa blinked as if she couldn't believe her eyes. "Our King decided not to Summon his ace?"

"That bastard…" Tokumatsu spoke from his place with a scowl.

"What is it?" Frank looked up to his senior with curious eyes.

"Jack is taking it easy on Yuto." The Cardian user stated. "In his eyes, Yuto is not worthy of having Scarlight used on him. Jack is planning to humiliate him without even using his ace. That will be the true entertainment from the King. I'm sure Yuto sees this as well."

"I can see it." Jack said, looking back at his opponent with a disappointed glare. "You haven't grown at all. Not one bit since you were defeated in the Exhibition Match."

"That can't be…" Yuto mumbled with narrowed eyes, taking two Cards from the remaining three in his Hand. "I set one Card and end my turn."

Break Sword: 3000-2000 Atk

"Break Sword's Attack is lower than Crimson Blader!" Frank exclaimed with wide eyes.

"The effect of Ragged Gloves only lasts until the End Phase." Melissa supplied the necessary information for the audience. "Therefore, Break Sword loses the boost."

"Entertainment Dueling…bringing smiles to people…" Yuto closed his eyes. "Yuya's style-"

"It's because you've been focusing on the style of another, that you haven't noticed! Your own style of Dueling!" Jack yelled out to Yuto as the two made a turn.

Yuto raised his eyebrows out of surprise. "My own style?"

"This entire time, you've been fighting with the words you've inherited from another." Jack spoke with a knowing glance. "You've been wearing a mask, masquerading as this friend you speak of. His ideals have now drowned out your own. If you want to speak to me, then speak to me with your own words. Your own Dueling style! The measure of your identity, not the one of another."

Yuto looked down as he considered Jack's words.

"My own identity…"

"My turn!" Jack shouted, drawing his Card. "Battle! Crimson Blader, attack Phantom Knights Break Sword!" Crimson Blader leaped towards Yuto's Monster, bringing down its blade and destroying the Monster.

Yuto grunted as smoke filled his vision. As I planned…

"I activate Break Sword's effect. When destroyed, I get to Special Summon Break Sword's Materials from the Graveyard as level 4 Monsters!" With the wave of his hand, Tear Scale and Ragged Gloves returned to the Field.

Tear Scale: Level 3-4

Ragged Gloves: Level 3-4

Yuto: 4000-3200 LP

"The Phantom Knights will never fall!" Yuto declared. "No matter how many times you destroy them, they will always revive!"

"Is that so?" Jack enquired. "Show it to me then. Show me the perseverance that allows your Monsters to cheat death! I end my turn."

"Very well. It's my turn!" Yuto announced as he added a Card to his Hand. "Now then, I overlay the level 4 Phantom Knights Tear Scale and Ragged Gloves! Formed from pitch-black darkness, to fight those foolish enough to oppose it with its treacherous fangs! Now, descend! Xyz Summon! Appear! Rank 4! Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon!"

Dark Rebellion: Rank 4, 2500 Atk, 2000 Def

"Once again, Ragged Gloves gives the Xyz Monster 1000 Attack until the end of the turn." Yuto reminded Jack and the rest of the City.

Dark Rebellion: 2500-3500 Atk

"I activate Dark Rebellion's effect! By detaching an overlay unit, I can halve the Attack of a Monster on the Field. Then, the lost Attack is added to Dark Rebellion until the end of the turn. Treason Discharge!" With electricity spewing out of his wings, Dark Rebellion weakened Crimson Blader, signified by said Monster slumping over.

Crimson Blader: 2800-1400 Atk

Dark Rebellion: 3500-4900 Atk

"Once again, I detach an overlay unit from Dark Rebellion to use his effect. Treason Discharge!" Yuto yelled.

Crimson Blader: 1400-700 Atk

Dark Rebellion: 4900-5600 Atk

"Just like in the Exhibition Match, Yuto heavily weakens Jack's Monster. If he succeeds with this attack, Jack's life will nearly be wiped out!" Melissa exclaimed with a fixed gaze on the Duel.

"Battle! Go, Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon, attack and destroy Crimson Blader! Rebellious Lightning Disobey!" Yuto declared as his ace Monster charged towards a Crimson Blader.

Turning his head away from the battling Monsters, Jack increased his speed while reaching out his hand and snatching an Action Card on the road. Only glancing at it for a moment, Jack inserted it into his Duel Disk.

"Action Magic, Battle Change! During your Battle Phase, when a Monster you control attacks, I can switch the battle position of a Monster I control once per turn." Taking a defensive position, Crimson Blader was destroyed as Dark Rebellion flew upwards, slashing him with his fangs. "Do not think that the same tricks will succeed as last time."

Yuto grunted out of annoyance. Nonetheless, he relented. "I end my turn. At this moment, Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon's effect ends, and his Attack returns to normal."

Dark Rebellion: 5600-2500 Atk

"While the King must have the power to stand on his own, it would be foolish not to take advantage of other sources for strength. You, however, rely only on the strengths of others. My turn, draw!" Jack roared, swiping the top Card off his Deck with enthusiasm. With the flick of his finger, Jack revealed his remaining facedown Card. "Trap Card, activate! Lost Star Descent! I can target a Synchro Monster in my Graveyard and Special Summon it in Defense Position. However, it's effect is negated, it's Defense is reduced to 0, and it's level is lowered by 1!"

As he spoke, a purple portal appeared behind Jack. Coming out of the portal was Crimson Blader, who took a defensive position immediately. The Monster glowed blue as he lost his Defense.

Crimson Blader: Level 8-7, 2600-0 Def

Jack ensnared a Card from his Hand between two fingers, placing it onto his Duel a Disk. "From my Hand, I Normal Summon Mirror Resonator!" Appearing next to a Crimson Blader was another devilish-looking Monster holding up a purple mirror in the air.

Mirror Resonator: Level 1, 0 Atk, 0 Def

"Next, I tune the now level 7 Crimson Blader with the level 1 Mirror Resonator." Jack declared as the usual process for a Synchro Summon occurred while the King chanted. "The heaven and earth shall tremble before the king's might. Let the power of the one and only supreme ruler be carved into your soul! Synchro Summon! The savage soul, Red Daemon's Dragon Scarlight!"

A torrent of flames appeared to the Field. With one swipe of his arm, the scorching-red ace Monster of Jack Atlas extinguishes the flames, flying alongside its owner, letting out a ferocious roar.

Scarlight: Level 8, 3000 Atk, 2500 Def

"Constantly chasing after the dreams of a friend and always relying on the strength of others only makes you a second-rate Duelist." Jack spoke with frustration evident in his voice. With a loud roar, Scarlight turned around to face Yuto and Dark Rebellion, his right arm surging with fire. "It seems I expected too much. I have no reason to exchange words with a man who is only imitating another. You who do not understand the principles of Dueling shall disappear! I activate Scarlight's effect!"

"Yuto's life is at 3200! Could this end in the exact same way as last time?" Melissa wondered, leaning forward slightly out of her helicopter, unfazed by the dangerous heights.

"Once per turn, Scarlight can destroy all other Special Summoned with Attack less than to itself. Then, for each Monster destroyed, 500 points of damage is dealt to you! Absolute Power Flame!" A wave of fire was released from Scarlight's arm, moving to burn Dark Rebellion.

"Not so fast!" Yuto bellowed, removing a Card from his Graveyard. "When Monsters I control would be destroyed, I can banish Phantom Knights Secret Arsenal instead."

Dark Rebellion was completely enveloped by Scarlight's flames. The dragon let out a wail from the pain. Fortunately, he managed to fight through the pain, spreading out his wings.

"You cannot keep running away forever!" Jack shouted, declaring battle. "Red Daemon's Dragon Scarlight, attack Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon! Fiery Crimson Hell Burning!"

A stream of fire blew out of Scarlight's mouth, enveloping and destroying Dark Rebellion. The particles of the destroyed Dark Rebellion rained down on Yuto. The boy grunted as his life points dropped.

Yuto: 3200-2700 LP

"I set two Cards. I'll end my turn here." Jack concluded as two Cards materialized in front of him before disappearing. Soon after ending his turn, Jack sped up, rushing towards an Action Card he saw ahead of him. Snatching the Card from the road, he glanced at it and placed it into his Hand for later use. He then looked back at Yuto to see how he would react.

The boy made no sudden movements. He looked down deep in thought as he and Jack passed through a tunnel.

"Yuto managed to avoid losing by just a hair. Ehh? What are you doing?" Melissa questioned with a curious tone. "It's your turn right now!"

I've tried to make my way through the war with the ideals of Yuya and his father. Bringing smiles to people. It's something I like to believe in. But as the war went on, I found that desire slipping as I thrived only for the survival of myself and my loved ones. Yuto thought to himself with a sharpened gaze. But Yuya...you changed me. You made me believe in making people smile again. But…

"What's wrong?" Jack spoke up with an annoyed tone. "Are you still planning on following the dreams of a friend? Are you still going to rely on others? If you no longer have the will to fight, then surrender and get out of my sight!"

"I'm not going to surrender! My turn, draw!"

But I can't bring smiles the way you did, Yuya. I can't bring smiles through entertaining people. I…

"I choose to place the Scale 1 Phantom Knights Scavenged Armor in the Pendulum Scale." Yuto said, placing the lone Card on the right side of his Duel Disk as the Monster rose up into the air on his right. "Next, I activate the Trap Card Phantom Knights Tomb Shield! Upon activation, this Card is Special Summoned in Attack Position as a Normal Monster."

At that moment, a chained shield appeared to the Field with blue flames spreading to resemble a ghostlike image.

Tomb Shield: Level 3, 0 Atk, 0 Def

"Following that, I choose to Summon Tuning Magician from my Hand!" Yuto said as the pink-haired magician appeared to the Field with a smile.

Tuning Magician: Level 1, 0 Atk, 0 Def

"Tuning Magician?" Sam gasped as he watched the Duel.

"Tuning Magician's effect activates! Upon activation, I lose 400 life points while my opponent gains 400."

Yuto: 2700-2300 LP

Jack: 4000-4400 LP

Jack glanced back at his opponent with a slightly intrigued look.

"Next, I activate the Pendulum effect of Scavenged Armor!" Yuto declared as his Pendulum Monster lit up. "Once per turn, I can declare a level from 1 to 6. Then, all Monsters with the declared level have their level doubled. I choose level 3."

As Tomb Shield's level was 3, its level was doubled.

Tomb Shield: Level 3-6

"Jack!" Yuto yelled out to his opponent. "You said that I haven't grown one bit since the Exhibition Match, but you're wrong! Using this Card that Sam entrusted to me, I have come to understand this dimension's method of Summoning."

"Have you now?" Jack asked with a wary tone. "Then show me if that new power is enough for you to stand on even ground with the King!"

"With pleasure!"

This one's for you, Yugo!

"I tune the level 6 Phantom Knights Tomb Shield with the level 1 Tuning Magician. Spread those wondrous and beautiful wings, and strike down your enemies at the speed of light! Synchro Summon! Appear now! Level 7! Clear Wing Synchro Dragon!" Yuto finished the chant as Yugo's Monster flew onto the Field.

Clear Wing: Level 7, 2500 Atk, 2000 Def

"I-Is that…" Melissa trailed off with surprise.

"My ace! Hell yeah!" Yugo eyes lit up as he beamed at the screen.

"You gave him your dragon?" Sawatari questioned the boy with shock evident in his voice.

Yugo nodded. "This way, I'm fighting against the King as well."

"You haven't listened to a single word I've said!" Jack shouted with a furious tone. "The power from a fallen opponent. You have no ground to stand on your own!"

"It was Yugo's dream to make it to the top and change the City. He entrusted me with Clear Wing, the embodiment of his hopes and dreams!" Yuto retorted with a resolved look on his face. "And I will accept his hopes and dreams! I activate the Magic Card Monster Reborn! Using this Card, I choose to revive Dark Rebellion from the Graveyard."

Yuto's ace rose from a portal appearing in front of him. As soon as Dark Rebellion was on the Field, both he and Clear Wing howled to the sky. Yuto grimaced as he felt the presence of another crashing down on his mind all of a sudden.

No! Not now...I will not give in to these feelings. I will fight!

Yuto removed another Card from his Hand, sliding it into the Magic and Trap Zone. "I activate the Magic Card Phantom Knights Possession! With this Card, I target an Xyz Monster I control, and treat it as a Monster with a level equal to the level of another Monster on the Field. I give Dark Rebellion the level of Clear Wing, 7!"

Dark Rebellion: Rank 4-Level 7

"I overlay the now level 7 Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon with Clear Wing Synchro Dragon." Yuto declared as both of his dragons swirled into a portal that opened up in front of him. A yellow pillar of light erupted from the portal as Yuto began to chant. "Dragon with wondrous and beautiful wings. Unleash that black scale of wrath, eradicate all opposing enemies! Xyz Summon! Come forth, Rank 7! Dragon with eyes of rage! Supreme King Black Dragon - Odd-Eyes Rebellion Dragon!"

Multiple shockwaves flushed throughout the road as the powerful dark dragon stormed to the Field, a misty purple cloud spreading out around him as he let out a low growl.

Odd Eyes Rebellion: Rank 7, 3000 Atk, 2500 Def

"This monstrosity?" Jack mumbled, remembering the dragon from Yuto's rage-filled Duel with Ruri. "I'm not impressed! You cannot unite the City with mindless raging and violence!"

"I know that!" Yuto spoke back. "However, this dragon is not a mere tool for destruction. I admit it, I am a fraud. All this time, I've been masquerading as my friend, trying to spread the beliefs he had. I did it because I also believed in his dream of making people smile. I realize now however that my method of making people smile is not the same as his. The job of uniting the City and bringing smiles cannot be done by me. It must be done with a collective group of people. The citizens of the City must put their bad blood aside and work together in order to move forward into the future. It would be a long process, but I believe that it can be done. It already has been done!"

Jack remained silent as Yuto continued with his speech.

"The fight against Academia. Without the Tops and Commons working together, the City would have been destroyed! We need to prevent another attack from happening ever again. If the people of the City worked together, we can help preserve peace. By protecting people and giving hope for the future...that's how I believe in bringing smiles!" Yuto said with a smile as he finally began to accept a part of himself that he thought was lost in the ashes of Heartland. "This dragon is the embodiment of multiple powers working together to move forward. The combined power of my Dark Rebellion and Yugo's Clear Wing was used to make this Monster! The combined power that transcends dimensions!"

Jack raised his eyebrows. "Is that so? Are those your words to me? Those are the ideals that you wanted to convey to me?"

Multiple powers working together to move forward. Powers that transcend dimensions. The King's lips curved into a smile.

"Very interesting. Very interesting indeed." Jack admitted. "Now that you've finally begun to fight with your words, come at me with all that you have! This power that cuts down the barriers between the dimensions, show it to me!"

Yeah, he'd do it. He would show him that power. He was not here alone. His parents who nurtured him and took care of him...his friends who kept him grounded…

It was because of them he was here…


Meanwhile

"Wh-What am I doing here?"

This question was asked by many throughout the large crowd of Security members as they found themselves in front of a group of angry, rioting Commons. They didn't remember anything that had happened, all they knew was that they all had a blackout.

The shock of the rioting Commons immediately put fear into the minds of the officers. As a result, each and every officer, inched backwards while the slightly larger Commons group marched forward.

"Get them!" Yelled a blond Commons holding up a bat, his eyes filled with rage.

"During Yuto and Jack's heated Duel, a few Commons have started to overwhelm Security throughout the City!" The voice of Melissa Claire could faintly be heard in the distance.

Almost on cue, the officers began to run after Melissa finished speaking.

For many years the members of Security were always in control, looking down on the powerless Commons as they squirmed in the dirt. Things were different now. Now, the Commons had the upper hand as the true character of the officers were revealed.

All of this was seen by members of the Lancers, who were trying to quell the conflict between the Tops and formerly brainwashed officers.

"If this goes on, the Commons riots will begin to intensify even more." Akaba Reiji said, adjusting his glasses to sit upon the bridge of his nose. "We must take further action and surprise the rioting for good."

"Understood." Ruri and the other Lancers nodded or grunted to signify their acceptance of the plan.

Unbeknownst to everyone in the area, even the Lancers, a damaged Sergey Volkov was lurking in the shadows. His red eye glowed in the dark confines of the alleyway he hid. His gaze kept switching from person to person in the Lancers, but his eyes fell on three people in particular…

Serena, Hiragi Yuzu, and Kurosaki Ruri…


Back at the Duel

"I have my words, Jack." Yuto started as he straightened his back, sitting up to his full height. "And I'm going to keep shouting them out loud for you to hear! Battle!"

"Then come!" Jack urged his opponent from another dimension. "Do not start to let down now!"

Yuto stomped on the gas pedal of his d-wheel, increasing his speed and slowly beginning to overtake the King, much to the crowd's surprise.

"Just watch..." Yuto spoke as he finally passed Jack, reaching his arm out towards the ground, grabbing an Action Card. "This is the combined power from multiple dimensions! I activate the Action Magic Extreme Sword! This Card allows me to increase the Attack of one Monster on the Field for the Battle Phase. Of course, I will pick Odd Eyes Rebellion Dragon!"

The Xyz dragon let out a ferocious howl as his eyes glowed from the increase in Attack, a purple aura surrounding his form.

Odd Eyes Rebellion: 3000-4000 Atk

"Now, Odd Eyes Rebellion Dragon, attack Red Daemon's Dragon Scarlight!" Yuto commanded as his dragon circled around in the air before rushing back towards Jack's ace. The dragon's fangs surged with electricity as he charged. "Rebellious Wrath Strike Disobey!"

Jack inserted the Action Card he had picked up earlier into his Duel Disk and activated it.

"Action Magic, Miracle! For this battle, Scarlight can't be destroyed. Also, the damage that I would take is halved!"

Odd Eyes Rebellion Dragon shot upwards, piercing Scarlight and shocking the enemy dragon with electricity. Jack scrunched his eyes slightly, swerving his d-wheel from left to right in order to stay in control during the ensuing shockwaves, doing so with relative ease.

Jack: 4400-3900 LP

"What a turn of events!" Melissa widened her eyes. "Yuto nearly manages to take out the King's ace! But, as per usual, the King manages to protect his ace."

"I end my turn." Yuto concluded as his Monster lost the Attack boost from Extreme Sword.

Odd Eyes Rebellion: 4000-3000 Atk

Jack smirked. "Not bad. However, you are foolish if you think that is the extent to the King's strength! My turn!" Jack drew the top Card of his Deck with energy. "My soul is much like your Phantom Knights. My soul will never fall! It will always thrive and become even stronger and stronger. There is no limit to the King's potential and desire! The King looks beyond, further beyond the summit in which he stands! Once again, I activate Scarlight's effect! Absolute Power Flame!"

Once more, a wave of flames was released from Scarlight's arm, enveloping Odd Eyes Rebellion Dragon, causing the dragon to writhe out of agony. The flames were so intense that the dragon dissolved out of existence, shattering into multiple particles that rained down on Yuto.

The Phantom Knights user let out a cry of pain as pain shot throughout his upper body from the remnants of his destroyed Monster.

Yuto: 2300-1800 LP

Despite the sharp pain, he quickly recovered. Yuto removed the Xyz Monster from the Monster Zone as he began to speak once again.

"When Odd Eyes Rebellion Dragon is destroyed, I can destroy the Pendulum Cards in my Pendulum Zone and place this Monster in one of them!" After his explanation, Scavenged Armor disappeared from the Field as Odd Eyes Rebellion Dragon reappeared in his place.

Odd Eyes Rebellion: Scale 4

"Never underestimate the power of the King! Scarlight, attack Yuto directly!" Jack's ace released a fireball at the Heartland resident.

Yuto quickly accelerated, once more reaching his hand out in sheer desperation as he just barely managed to grab an Action Card in front of him.

"Action Magic, Evasion! When a Monster you control declares an attack, I can target that Monster and negate the attack!" Yuto explained as he drove to the left, dodging the fireball and avoiding a loss.

"You just barely managed to escape using Action Cards, huh?" Jack mused with a fixed gaze on his opponent. "However, you cannot hide behind Action Cards forever. I set one Card and end my turn."

"My turn!" Yuto sweeped the top Card off his Deck. Holding his arm out, he spoke. "I activate the Pendulum effect of Odd Eyes Rebellion Dragon. Once per turn, if there is no Card in my other Pendulum Zone, I can place a Pendulum Monster in the Pendulum Zone!"

"Counter Trap, activate!" Jack revealed one of his set Cards. "Red Vanish! When a Magic or Trap Card is activated, I can negate the activation of the Card and destroy it! I know from Akaba Reiji that when in the Pendulum Zone, Pendulum Monsters are considered Magic Cards. Therefore, even they are not safe from this effect!"

Melissa's eyes creeped up out of surprise. "Wow! I didn't even know that. As expected of our King to know of such a trait about Pendulum Monsters!"

Ignoring Melissa's commentary, Yuto removed a Card from his Graveyard. "I activate the Graveyard effect of Phantom Knights Tomb Shield. By banishing this Card from the Graveyard, I get to negate the effect of a face-up Trap Card you control until the end of the turn. Of course, I'm negating the effect of Red Vanish!"

After Yuto's interruption, Jack's Trap began to be covered in a dull, gray coat before it disappeared from the Field.

"Now that that Card has been negated, I get to go through with Odd Eyes Rebellion Dragon's effect. I choose to place Phantom Knights Shady Pauldron into the Pendulum Zone!" Yuto finished using his dragon's effect as his Deck automatically began to shuffle itself.

A pauldron with a ghostly body sprouting out of the openings appeared to the Field.

Shady Pauldron: Scale 8

"I activate the Pendulum effect of Shady Pauldron!" Yuto began, raising his hand up to his Pendulum Monster. "Once per turn, I get to banish a Pendulum Monster in my Hand, Deck, or Graveyard. Then, until the end of the turn, Shady Pauldron gets to copy the banished Monster's Pendulum effect. From my Deck, I choose to banish Phantom Knights Deceased Comrade!"

Yuto removed said Card from the Deck as he looked back at Jack.

"Now, with the set Pendulum Scales, I get to simultaneously Special Summon Monsters with levels from 5 to 7!" Yuto said as a giant pendulum appeared above, swinging between his two Scales as a light blue portal appeared. "Swing! Pendulum of my soul! Carve an arc of hope across the ether! Pendulum Summon! Appear, my Monsters! First, from the Extra Deck, is Phantom Knights Scavenged Armor! Then, using the copied effect of Deceased Comrade, I Summon Clear Wing Synchro Dragon from the Graveyard!"

Scavenged Armor: Level 5, 2100 Atk, 1000 Def

"Alright! Go, Clear Wing!" Yugo cheered at the sight of his ace Monster.

"I'm not finished just yet." Yuto said with a small smile on his face, holding up the only Card in his Hand. "From my Hand, I Summon Phantom Knights Dusty Robe!"

Dusty Robe: Level 3, 800 Atk, 1000 Def

"I activate the effect of Phantom Knights Possession from my Graveyard! By banishing this Card, I get to take control of a Monster you control until the end of the turn." Yuto explained as he removed his Magic Card from the Graveyard.

"You've misplayed!" Jack declared as he revealed another one of his set Cards. "Trap Card, Revival Gift, activate! With this Card, I get to select and Special Summon a Tuner Monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated. Then, two Gift Fiend Tokens are Special Summoned to your Field in Defense Position. Return, Mirror Resonator!"

Mirror Resonator returned to Scarlight's side in a defensive position. Then, on the last two slots on Yuto's Field, two black creatures appeared, both in Defense.

Gift Fiend Tokens: Level 3, 1500 Atk, 1500 Def

Yuto widened his eyes. "Shit…"

"Now, all of your Monster Zones are filled up. With this, my Scarlight cannot be possessed."

"Amazing!" Melissa gushed over Jack's play. "The King not only manages to protect his ace from destruction, but he can protect it from possession as well!"

"If I cannot control Scarlight, then I'll have to destroy him. I activate Phantom Knights Dusty Robe's effect. By changing this Monster to Defense Position, I can increase the Attack of a Dark Monster I control by 800! I will choose to increase the Attack of Phantom Knights Scavenged Armor!" Yuto then motioned to Yugo's dragon. "Now, I will activate the effect of Clear Wing Synchro Dragon! If a Monster effect targets a level 5 or higher Monster on the Field, I can negate the effect of that Monster and destroy it. Dichroic Mirror!"

Clear Wing released a green light from her wings. The light enveloped Dusty Robe and destroyed the knight. Clear Wing's eyes then glowed yellow as Yuto explained that she gained the Attack of the destroyed Monster until the end of the turn.

Clear Wing: 2500-3300 Atk

"Alright! Nice play, Yuto!" Yugo commended his counterpart with a wide grin.

"They keep trying to one up another…" Sawatari muttered with a look of awe. "They keep exchanging blows back and forth."

"Battle! Now go, Clear Wing Synchro Dragon, attack and destroy Red Daemon's Dragon Scarlight!" The Synchro Monster obeyed Yuto's command as she launched into the air, spinning in the air once before spiraling downwards like a drill. "Whirlwind Helldiving Slasher!"

"Naive!" Jack bellowed, flipping open his final facedown Card. "Continuous Trap, King Scarlett, activate! When a Red Monster I control would be destroyed by battle, I can make that Monster invulnerable to destruction by that battle and then Special Summon this Trap as a Normal Tuner Monster!"

Clear Wing rammed right into Scarlight, the dragon was blown backwards as Clear Wing tumbled back over to Yuto's side. The ensuing shockwaves from the attack shook Jack's body. At that moment, a flaming horned Monster appeared to the Field in Defense Position.

Jack: 3900-3600 LP

King Scarlett: Level 1, 0 Atk, 0 Def

"Very well, then I will just attack Mirror Resonator with Phantom Knights Scavenged Armor!" Yuto pointed towards the only other Tuner Monster on Jack's Field. Scavenged Armor charged forward, ramming into Mirror Resonator and destroying it.

Yuto let out a deep breath, wiping sweat off his brow. "Whew. With this, I end my turn. At this moment, Clear Wing Synchro Dragon's effect ends, and his Attack is returned to normal."

Clear Wing: 3300-2500 Atk

Looking away from Clear Wing, Yuto cursed himself.

"Damn it! I almost got you...but you're not the King for nothing, Jack." Yuto spoke as he slowed down so they were riding side by side.

Jack smirked. "You are a very interesting opponent, Yuto. A very interesting one indeed. You do rely on the strengths of others, but that power is what you use to move forward. And you make something unique of that combined power as well. Never have I encountered a Duelist such as yourself. That friend you take after so much must be an exceptional Duelist."

"Yes, he is." Yuto nodded.

Jack closed his eyes with a disappointed smile. "I would have liked to face him. Perhaps sometime after this conflict is over."

Yuto blinked out of surprise. Was Jack making small talk with him? The same guy who had so harshly criticized his style of Dueling earlier...was acting friendly?

Jack's softer expression than turned serious once again as he sped up. "However, we must not focus on what could have been. We must focus on the now! And the future! You may be strong, Yuto, but the King must provide the ultimate entertainment for his audience. The King must go beyond his limits!"

"A bold declaration from our King!" Melissa commented, looking at the crowds of people in the stands. "And it seems that it is resonating well with the audience!"

"As expected of the Grand Finals." A Tops citizen said.

"I can't take my eyes off of this Duel!" Multiple Commons were yelling out.

As of now, there were no split feelings. Each and every person watching was viewing the match with excitement and joy. For once, the people of the City were united...

"Now that you are speaking with your own words, then I have no choice but to respond!" Jack yelled, drawing a Card from his turn, marking the beginning of his turn. "From my Hand, I Summon Synchron Resonator to the Field!"

Synchron Resonator: Level 1, 100 Atk, 300 Def

"Two Tuner Monsters…" Yuto mumbled before widening his eyes out of shock. "Don't tell me…"

"I will make my own road. Listen to the roar of my soul! Bear witness to my Dueling!" Jack shouted as he removed all three Monsters from his Duel Disk. "With my level 8 Red Daemon's Dragon Scarlight, my level 1 King Scarlett and Synchron Resonator, I perform a Double Tuning!"

"Here it is…"

"The King's unique Double Tuning!" Melissa unknowingly finished Yuto's sentence.

"Ruler and Devil, they cross now and here! Touch the soul of the Crimson Dragon, and raise up the cry of creation! Synchro Summon! Appear! Level 10! Red Daemon's Dragon Tyrant!" Jack shouted as the advanced form of Scarlight appeared in a burst of flames.

Tyrant: Level 10, 3500 Atk, 3000 Def

"Nice job, Jack!" A member of the audience raised a fist to the air, giving the King his support while others looked on in awe.

"This is the King's power?" Another person said to themselves with wide eyes.

"Battle! Red Daemon's Dragon Tyrant, attack Clear Wing Synchro Dragon!" Jack motioned towards Yuto's Synchro Monster as Tyrant released a torrent of fire. "Crimson Hell Tide Inferno!" The attack enveloped Clear Wing, destroying the Monster and subsequently toasting Yuto.

The boy let out a cry of pain as his life points were lowered even further.

Yuto: 1800-800 LP

"Now that Clear Wing is gone, I activate Tyrant's effect! Once per turn, Tyrant gets to destroy all other Cards on the Field!"

"Shit!" Yuto cursed under his breath as Tyrant's right hand surged with fire, flying up into the air and crashing back down to punch the ground.

"Absolute Power Inferno!"

The ensuing shockwaves from Tyrant's fist enveloped all of Yuto's Cards and destroyed them.

Despite his current predicament however, Yuto did not falter…

"I activate the effect of Phantom Knights Scavenged Armor. If this Card is destroyed, I can place it in my Pendulum Zone!"

Scavenged Armor: Scale 1

"I also activate the effect of the destroyed Shady Pauldron." Yuto prompted, holding up the Monster. "When this Card in the Pendulum Zone is destroyed, I can banish a Phantom Knights Monster in my Graveyard and then reset this Card into the Pendulum Zone. Then, I can have Shady Pauldron copy the Pendulum effect of a banished Pendulum Monster until the end of my turn. I banish Break Sword and copy the effect of the banished Deceased Comrade!"

"So you were planned for even that much, huh?" Jack mused as both Pendulum Monsters rose to Yuto's sides. "I end my turn here."

"No." Yuto shook his head. "I didn't plan it at all. I only did everything that I could have done."

Jack smiled. "Then that makes it even more interesting. However, you must realize that you no longer have any Cards in your Hand. If you do not get the right Card next turn, this Duel is as good as over."

Yuto frowned. He knew that.

No matter what happened, this would be Yuto's last turn of the Duel.

So, I have to make this final turn count! Yuto thought to himself, placing his hand on the top of his Deck. He closed his eyes, and thought of his friends and family. Mother...Father...Brothers...Shun...Ruri...Ryoga...Yuya...and everyone else...lend me strength!

"My turn, draw!" Yuto cried out of desperation, stealing a glance at his final draw. He widened his eyes when he laid his eyes upon the Card, remembering what had happened before his Duel with Yugo.

"Here, take this."

"Yuya I-"

"I don't want to hear it. Take it. I think it will be very useful for you in the future. Besides, as long as you have that, it will be like a part of me is always fighting with you."

Yuto closed his eyes, a feeling of gratitude filling his insides.

Thank you, Yuya…

"The inherited Pendulum effect of Shady Pauldron allows me to Pendulum Summon two Monsters from the Graveyard if I control another Phantom Knights Monster in the other Pendulum Zone." Yuto explained as he raised his hand. "With the current scale, I can Summon Monsters with from levels 2 to 7. Pendulum Summon! Appear, my Monsters!"

A portal opened above Yuto as three beams of light flew out. The first two Monsters were from the Graveyard. The first was the level 3 Phantom Knights Ragged Gloves in Defense Position. The second Monster was the level 3 Phantom Knights Tear Scale, also in Defense Position. Lastly, from Yuto's Hand, was Entermate Curtain Switcher.

Curtain Switcher: Level 2, 0 Atk, 0 Def

"I activate the Monster effect of Entermate Curtain Switcher! Once during either player's turn, I can switch one characteristic of two Monsters on the Field or in my Graveyard until the end of the turn. This characteristic can be anything from level, Attack, or even Tuner and non-Tuner."

"What?!" Jack gasped, showing shock for the first time in the entirety of the Duel.

"I will switch the status of Curtain Switcher with Tuning Magician to make this Monster a Tuner."

"Incredible!" Melissa exclaimed. "Yuto just transformed a non-Tuner into a Tuner Monster."

"Now, I tune the level 3 Phantom Knights Ragged Gloves and Phantom Knights Tear Scale with the level 2 Curtain Switcher!" Both Phantom Knights Monsters turned into six stars while Curtain Switcher changed into two green rings. "Souls of warriors that fell on the battlefield! Resonate your spirits here and now to give birth to a new soldier! Synchro Summon! Appear! Level 8! Phantom Knights Silent Paladin!"

The ghostly knight appeared to the Field, unsheathing its long black sword.

Silent Paladin: Level 8, 2500 Atk, 2000 Def

"It's the Monster from Yuto's Duel with Yugo!" Melissa immediately recalled from the previous Duel.

"When Silent Paladin is Synchro Summoned, I get to negate the effects of all Monsters you currently control until the end of the turn. Silent Persecution!" Yuto spoke as Silent Paladin held out its blade, with a yellow light glowing at the tip of the sword. A small beam was released from the blade, connecting with Tyrant, who received a gray outline. "Since I have succeeded, Silent Paladin gains half the Attack of the negated Monster with the highest Attack until the end of the turn."

Since Tyrant has 3500 Attack, Silent Paladin gains 1750 Attack.

Silent Paladin: 2500-4250 Atk

"Now, I activate the effect of Phantom Knights Silent Paladin. Once per turn, by banishing a Phantom Knights Monster from my Graveyard, I can allow Silent Paladin to attack twice this turn!" Yuto said as he removed Phantom Knights Ragged Gloves from the Graveyard.

"Don't tell me…" Melissa whispered into the microphone, loud enough for everyone to hear. "Don't tell me that the King is going to lose!"

In all of her years of commentating the Friendship Cup, Melissa has never seen anything like this. The King...was going to lose!

The King however, seemed to accept his impending doom with pride.

"Good! Good!" Jack shouted with a smile on his face, turning his d-wheel around and constantly reversing at a consistent speed. "Now, come at me, Yuto! With all of your power, strike at the King!"

"I will!" Yuto yelled, holding his arm out towards Jack's Monster. "Battle! Go, Phantom Knights Silent Paladin, attack Red Daemon's Dragon Tyrant!"

Silent Paladin leaped into the air. Slashing downwards, destroying Jack's Monster with the ensuing shockwaves causing the King to shake.

Jack: 3600-2850 LP

"No way!" A Commons from the audience gasped. "The King...is going to lose!"

"Now, for the final attack!" Yuto bellowed as he motioned to his Monster. "Phantom Knights Silent Paladin, attack Jack directly and end this Duel!"

Silent Paladin stood up and raised his sword, striking the ground and releasing a wave of energy towards Jack. The wave enveloped Jack, who only accepted the attack with a smile of content.

Jack: 2850-0 LP

It was over.

And then a moment of silence…


Card Catalog

Revival Gift: I changed it so that the Tokens would be forced to be Special Summoned in Defense Position.

Phantom Knights Shady Pauldron, Dark, Warrior, Pendulum, Scale 1: Pendulum Effect: Once per turn, you can banish a Pendulum Monster in your Hand, Deck, or Graveyard. Then, until the end of the turn, this Card gains the Pendulum effect of the banished Monster. Monster Effect: When this Card in the Pendulum or Monster Zone is destroyed, you can banish a Phantom Knights Monster from your Graveyard. Then, reset this Card into the Pendulum Zone. Until the end of your turn, the Pendulum effects of this Card will be the same as a banished Pendulum Monster.


Hey everyone! I hope you all are healthy and well. I'm sorry I haven't been able to update for a while. I've honestly been feeling like a sack of shit this past month. I felt really sick and I just felt very trapped in a place I felt like I didn't belong in.

I went to the doctor and apparently I have a case (not a horrible case) of depression which might have to do with the lack of social contact with my friends because of the virus in the past couple of months and also due to a fear that I have of death and just the far future in general causing anxiety, panic attacks, and a couple of breakdowns.

Regardless however, I've been feeling much better in the past week. My family has been very supportive and I'm starting to feel grounded in reality again. Sometimes, I do get these weird feelings of not belonging, but I've managed to calm down and I am proud to say that I am much better and I'll do my best to release the next chapter quicker than all of the other times.

Anyways, next chapter, we'll go over to the Yuya and Yuri Duel. And then, we will set up the final Duel in the Synchro Dimension. However, if you wish, you can consider this chapter to be the end of the Synchro Dimension arc and consider the next two chapters to be the beginning of the Xyz Dimension arc.

DivadX: Thanks for the support, and if I need help, I will take your PM into consideration.

That's all that I have to say for now guys. I hope you all enjoyed the chapter.

Take care, goodbye!