After the assembly, Principal Mackenzie and his "Pride" left the auditorium. Their footsteps echoed through the school as they proceeded toward the guest rooms prepared for them prior. Guiding them, Mackenzie was careful not to let anything slip on his face, holding back his dark chuckles as he led his three students down the main hallway.

"Kukuku… to think the fool would invite us into his nest," he said. "Sheppard must be quite confident in his plans if he thinks they can outdo my own."

"What would you have us do, sir?" Wisteria asked, following closely behind him.

Mackenzie's lips curled into a smirk as he chanced a look at his students. He hadn't lied when he'd introduced them as the pride and soul of the North. They had passed each rigorous test he'd thrown at them in the cold, glacial wastes, pushing themselves to incredible heights—and despicable lows—to gain power. Certainly, some of them had needed a little more persuading than the others, but it all turned them into what they were now: His perfectly obedient puppets.

His smirk grew darker.

"The tournament doesn't officially start until tomorrow," he sneered. "Enjoy yourselves, for there is no evil to humans who grow bored of this world. To fulfill our mission, this island must be soaked in the darkest of evils: dueling. Starting tomorrow, we'll push all of Sheppard's pupils to the brink of despair… and use their energy as fuel to awaken the rest of my slumbering Beasts."

The three students nodded at that, acknowledging their true purpose without complaint. Mackenzie chuckled and turned away from them, continuing their walk down the hall.

"To that end," he continued, "you should spend tonight mastering your new Decks. The darkness you've earned is not freely given… and I'll take them back if you're weak."

"Hmph! Hear that, David?" Reggie asked, glancing over to her partner. "Better keep up or you'll lose your head."

"Kukuku…That's my line," he grinned, casting his gaze at Mackenzie. "But I don't think we'll lose to these students. There are only two worth my time."

"Two?" Wisteria asked, narrowing her eyes sultrily at his words.

"The current Kings of this Academy," David explained. "The Kaiser… and Rhodes."

Reggie giggled. "Oh, yes. The Blizzard Prince beat you before."

"Don't call him that!" David sneered, his frustration spilling over onto his face. "The fact that he continues to go by that ridiculous name is nothing more than an insult!"

"Oh, I don't know. I quite like it," Wisteria purred happily.

"Well, I don't. And if he shows his face… then I'll get my revenge!"

Reggie wrinkled her nose but didn't say anything in response to the words. Mackenzie, however, chuckled deeply.

"Good. Indulge those emotions," he said. "I, too, will be seeking enjoyment during the Duels of this tournament. Feel free to seek out your own in whatever way you deem fit… but be wary. There are students here whose prowess just might surprise you."

"You mean these weaklings actually have someone of merit?" David asked in disbelief.

"Oh, yes. There's one in particular I'd keep a very close eye on. An old student of mine. Kukuku… he's been quite popular lately."

David's fists balled as he turned to Wisteria.

"He's talking about him, isn't he?" he asked. "That new plaything you've been manipulating. Konami Kodo… The failure!"

Wisteria smirked.

"I actually prefer to use the term, 'Darling', myself. And can you blame me?" she cupped her cheeks, squirming in place. "He's so handsome! Seeing him get all riled up really gets my blood pumping, you know? You should've seen the expression he had when I told him about our dear principal… He looked so betrayed! Ahahaha… I want to see even more from him!"

"Tch…!" David growled.

"You'll get your chance," Mackenzie promised with a smirk. "For in the hunt for the remaining Sacred Beasts… our sides will surely come to blows."

TAG FORCE ALTERNATIVE: TWISTING THE TALE
LESSON SEVEN
GOTCHA!

Konami stormed down the hallway, his footsteps echoing against the cold floors. Mackenzie's smug face was still fresh in his mind. He had to confront him. And now! The man's appearance as the North's principal confirmed Wisteria's words, and he deserved to know why he had been thrown away like… like some piece of trash!

His fists tightened as he pushed through the corridors, eyes scanning for Mackenzie's tall figure. But before he could locate his target, a hand yanked him to the side, pulling him out of view. He barely had time to register the grip on his arm before he was slapped, his cheek stinging as he found himself face-to-face with a furious Kami.

"You have some nerve!" she seethed, her green eyes blazing with unrestrained anger. "Not one message. Not one call! It's like you forgot I exist!"

"Kami, I—"

"Do you have any idea how humiliating it was?" she sneered. "To find out what MY Duelist's been up to through school gossip of all things?!"

Konami blinked in surprise, the sudden change of pace catching him off guard.

Kami dragged him into an empty room and slammed the door shut behind her. "You think I'm okay with you running around like this without keeping me informed? As your sponsor— your manager, I need to know what you're doing at all times! How am I supposed to manage our reputation if you don't bother to communicate?!"

"I don't have time for this right now, Kami," Konami grunted, turning to grasp the doorknob. He needed to find Mackenzie, get his answers, and confirm the truth!

Kami, however, was not having it. She quickly yanked him back toward her, wielding far more strength than her petite frame suggested she had. "Oh no, Konami. You'll make time. For me, you have to. You're not just representing yourself anymore; you're representing my company! And that means you need to start acting like it, whether you want to or not!"

Konami's eyes narrowed. "I don't need a lecture—"

"On the contrary, I think you do!" she snapped, "Because I don't need my Duelist breaking beds while seeking pleasure from a Duel Monster!" Kami's voice raised a notch, her cheeks flushing angrily as the words left her mouth.

Konami sputtered, utterly caught off guard. "T-That's not what happened!"

Kami crossed her arms, glaring at him. "Then what did happen, Konami? Because from what I've heard, it sounds like you've been making a complete and utter fool of yourself! Do you know how embarrassing this is for me? How bad your stunt makes us look?"

"I didn't—!" he started, but Kami cut him off again.

"Shut up. I'm the one talking," she huffed. "Look, Commoner, you're one of the best Duelists in the Academy now, so act like it. You shouldn't be relying on some… card anyway. Not when you still have me."

Konami's brow furrowed in confusion. "Wait… Kami, what are you saying?"

Kami gave him a pointed look, her blush deepening in embarrassment. She glanced away, averting her eyes. "Are you really going to make me say it? We had a deal, you and I… and thanks to your Duel against Rex, Umi no Corp's now part of the dueling market, so…"

"So?"

She squirmed in place, wringing her fingers together as Konami turned to her. Her eyes darted between him and the floor. It was almost as if she'd turned shy.

"So… I'm saying there's no need for you to get involved with that… woman. She's plotting something. And her family's relationship with you… I don't like it!"

"Relationship?" Konami frowned. "Are you… talking about Wisteria?"

"Did you know she was coming?" Kami inquired. "Did you know she was… the North's best student?"

"I knew she was part of the North," he grunted, furrowing his brow in annoyance. "But I didn't know she'd turn up this soon. Much less that she'd bring some friends with her."

His eyes narrowed at the reminder. Wisteria had some explaining to do. She'd gone completely dark after he'd beaten Rex, and he had nothing but more questions. Fortunately, he'd managed to keep tabs on her through his own quiet scheme.

Now, he just had to collect on those tabs… by meeting with her face-to-face.

Before that, though, he had to deal with the angry heiress before him. Well, less angry now, he supposed, setting a hand on her shoulder.

"But that's not what this is about, is it?" he asked, gazing down at her. "Kami, tell me what's going on. Why are you really upset?"

"You… You said she kissed you," she murmured. "Before you dueled Rex."

"Not by my choice."

"Don't give me that! You're… you! You could have stopped her!"

His eyes widened as he saw her expression.

"Kami, are… are you jealous?"

"Wha-?!" the girl sputtered and stepped back. "Of course not! That's ridiculous! I… I'm just upset my property's not resisting the competition!"

"Is that right?" Konami smiled to himself as he sighed in relief. "Kami, I'm not into Wisteria. She's attractive, sure. But that's it. I've told you once, and I'll tell you again. You're the one I have eyes for. I'm sorry for letting Wisteria kiss me. I won't let it happen again."

Ba-Bump.

Kami's eyes widened as Konami pulled her closer.

"I-Is that so?" she stuttered, coughing into her fist. "Yes. Well. Very good then. I don't need you being distracted. The upcoming tournament is a chance for you to push our name to even higher heights. It wouldn't do for you to be seduced by that dumb harlot flashing her—"

"Kami."

Her words caught as he silenced her. She let out a soft, breathless sound as her earlier tirade was forgotten. After a long moment, her eyes finally fluttered shut, her body instinctively leaning into him and erasing the distance between them.

"C-Common…" she hummed. "Konami…"

"I recall you promised me a reward," he whispered.

"Yes…" she breathed, her face flushed.

"Do you mind giving it to me now?"

"...No…" she agreed, parting her lips, "You'll never think about her again."

-GX-

"Holy Shit, Konami. Yes!" Jasmine squealed, watching with Bastion. The two of them had followed Konami the second he ran off after the assembly, knowing him well enough to know he had gone to confront his old teacher, Mackenzie. They had planned on being there to support him in what was clearly a fruitless endeavor, but they never once thought that Konami would be distracted by more… physical pleasures.

"We should give them some space," Bastion gulped. "They clearly don't want to be disturbed."

"You've got that right," Jasmine said, wiping a tear from her eye. "I'm so proud! Our baby really went and nabbed him a girl! Even if it's that rotten brat, Kami! But this is a win, right? He's happy! This a win for Team Kodo!"

"I'm still not sure on the name," Bastion sighed, "But I suppose you could see it as such."

"Eh? No need to be coy, Genius," Jasmine said, poking him with her elbow. "Don't worry, there are girls out there for everyone. We'll find you a nice, nerdy type!"

Bastion blushed as they walked down the hall. "I've no interest in that at the moment! My studies are what's important right now, along with winning this tournament!"

"Shoot, you're right!" Jasmine gasped. "With everything going on, I nearly forgot! When the tournament starts, they're shutting things down to make things 'feel more authentic!' How the hell am I supposed to enjoy the hot springs if there's not gonna be any power?!"

"We won't be allowed to use the dorms either. They say it's unfair to the visitors," Bastion mused. His eyes flipped through the pamphlet in his hands, handed to them during the assembly. "In fact, this says that everything's closing save for emergency services."

"Seriously?" Jasmine groaned. "They're really going for the Duelist Kingdom feel, huh? What about those not participating?"

"They'll be allowed to stay in the Main Building. It seems drink and food will be supplied via Dorthory at the school store, and participants will be tracked through their Duel Disks to ensure no one suddenly goes missing."

"Right… That sounds thorough enough."

"Yeah, but accidents happen," someone said. "That's why it'd be smart to stay in a group. Especially since we can't use the school facilities."

Jasmine and Bastion glanced at each other, wondering which of them had spoken. A moment later, they glanced behind them, coming face-to-face with—

"Alexis?!" Jasmine gasped.

The blonde smiled hesitantly at her, making her furrow her brow. "What do you want?" she asked.

Alexis's smile faltered. "I… Jasmine, can we talk?"

Jasmine frowned, the last time they "talked" flashing through her mind on repeat.

"You can say what you need to here," she replied. "Bastion's a friend. I trust him."

Alexis bit her lip, the unspoken statement that she didn't trust her hurting deeply. Still, she nodded her head and agreed. Bastion needed to hear this, too.

"The truth is… Jasmine, I… wanted to apologize to you," she said. "I did some things I shouldn't have before, and I… well, I'm sorry. That goes for you, too, Bastion," she added, quickly bowing in their direction. "I shouldn't have called you out like I did. It was wrong, and we nearly died for it."

"Indeed," Bastion mused, folding his arms at her posture while examining her. "But if you've learned your lesson, then I see no need to foster a grudge."

"Hmph. Speak for yourself!" Jasmine huffed. "I still remember that slap! It hurt a lot! And why'd you wait until now to come to us, huh?"

"Because…" Alexis clenched her fist. "Because…! I was ashamed! You were right, and I was so stupid, and I nearly got everyone killed…! Between Judge Man, the Occult Club, Xyz… I… I just couldn't face you. But the longer I waited, the more I realized that I was just protecting my pride."

"Alexis…" Jasmine's gaze softened slightly, and she unfolded her arms to stare at her.

"Jasmine, you were one of my first friends here at the academy, and because I thought I knew better, I nearly threw that away on a hunch. I… I don't have any excuses. I was reckless. Stupid! I understand if you can't forgive me, but please, accept my apology."

A tense silence fell between them, and then…

"Of course, I'll accept it," said Jasmine. "I'm more upset you waited so long! We could've had this sorted out!"

"Jasmine…?" Alexis inhaled, glancing up at her in shock.

"Yeah, you made a lot of mistakes, but at least you're owning up to them now!" she continued. "And I never wanted to fight you in the first place. You're my friend, too, Alexis."

Alexis's eyes brightened, a small smile forming on her lips. "Thank you, Jasmine. Seriously. I… I really mean it."

"Don't worry about it," she sighed, waving it off like it was no big deal. "Ah…! But you can't just apologize to me! You've gotta to Konami, too! You said a lot of cruel things about him back when you thought he was lying! And I know he's a lot, but this is something I won't negotiate on!"

"I know," Alexis admitted, "to be honest, I thought I had seen him with you. Is… he not around?"

Jasmine froze. "Er… he left to do something. You know how it is…"

"Yes!" Bastion coughed. "He had some…"

"Make-up work!"

"For Sartyr!" "-Crowler!"

Jasmine exchanged a quick glance with Bastion.

"Both," they said with a smile.

"Right," Alexis said, glancing between the two of them strangely. "Well, if you see him around, point him my way, would you? I'd like to clear the air between us. At least, in regards to before."

"Sure thing, Alexis! Oh, by the way," Jasmine added, quickly stepping forward. "Are you competing in the tournament, too?"

"Of course, I am. Why wouldn't I?" she asked. "A chance to test my skills against the best Duelists in the whole world? Sounds like a pretty good time to me. What about you, sitting out?"

Jasmine frowned. "No, actually. I plan to compete!"

"Really? You should come with me then. Chazz and I are making a group. We figured there'd be more safety in numbers considering how we'll all be camping. So far we've got Jaden and Syrus, too. Chumley's not gonna compete."

"Hmm, those two Slifers huh?" Jasmine wondered, unimpressed.

"They might not look it, but they're pretty tough. I think we'll all get pretty far."

"Sorry, but I think I'll have to pass," Jasmine said, waving apologetically. "I promised I'd stick with Konami and Bastion. Too much and it'll become a crowd. Besides…" she trailed off for a moment, sucking in a deep breath. "Alexis, you're one of the ones I want to duel in this tournament!"

Alexis's eyes widened at that. "You want to duel? Really?"

"Yeah. I want to show you I'm not the same girl from before! I won't just stand by on the sidelines and cheer. I'm a Duelist now, too! So, when the time comes… will you accept my challenge?"

Alexis smiled. "You're on. Just don't expect me to hold back."

"I wouldn't dream of it," Jasmine replied, shooting her a sporty grin.

"Hm, she's not the only one who'll be looking for a rematch, Alexis," Bastion said. "The next time we duel, don't think you'll escape without me at least scratching your Life Points."

Alexis smiled confidently at that. "Sure, whatever you say."

The two shook hands, and without another word, turned to go their separate ways.

-GX-

"Alright! I think that does it," Jaden said, examining his newly built deck. "I was worried I wouldn't be able to finish, but we figured it out just in time!"

"I'm not sure this counts as 'figuring it out.'" Yubel's voice echoed from his shoulder. "Why do I, your most valuable card, have to share a deck with this rodent?!"

"Kuri Kurii!" Winged Kuriboh's voice chirped from Jaden's other shoulder.

The two Spirits glared at each other, sparks flying as they fought over Jaden.

'A Kuriboh who rose and became a Fairy…' Yubel thought. 'Bah! How ridiculous!'

As if sensing the jab, Winged Kuriboh flew and rammed itself into Yubel. The Spirit gasped and staggered back, immediately swatting the furball away.

"Hey, you two! Cut it out!" Jaden said. "We're all on the same side, remember?"

"He started it!"

"Kuri Kuri!"

The two spirits pointed at each other.

"Hey, Kuriboh! Yubel's my friend, can't you be nicer to them?" Jaden asked.

"Kuri! Kuri!"

"Yeah, I know. But they only want to help. I promise!"

"Heh Heh Heh…" Yubel grinned upon seeing the furball get chastised.

"And you, Yubel! I know you've been gone for a while, but you've gotta chill out!"

"What?"

"I know you had to suffer a lot while you were stuck in that other dimension, but you're with me now! So try to relax. Dueling's about having fun!"

"Jaden…"

He held up his deck, showing it to the two spirits.

"Both of you are important to me. All the cards I have in here are! And thanks to you, Yubel, I've got new cards that'll really surprise my opponent! Oh, man…! They look gnarly, too! I can't wait to try 'em all out! This tournament really can't start soon enough! When's it starting again?"

"Midnight, loser," Chazz's voice barked from the hall as he entered the room. "You in here talking to yourself again?"

"Oh, hey, Chazz! What's up?" Jaden grinned.

"Just checking to make sure you're still here. We don't need you running off again!" Chazz sneered. "I don't want me and Lexie's cheerleaders getting lost before the Semifinals!"

"Cheerleaders?" Jaden asked, a bead of sweat dripping down his forehead. "I don't think we have a cheerleading squad."

"I was talking about you, ya slacker!" he yelled.

"What? Me?!"

"Why else do ya think we asked ya to camp together?" Chazz asked. "I need somebody to hype me up. The Chazz doesn't hype himself, see?"

"Uh… Uh-huh?"

"Jaden, permission to comatose this buffoon?" Yubel asked.

"What? No way! Chazz is a friend."

"Who are you calling friend, slacker?!" Chazz shouted. "You're my hypeman, nothing more! You're here to help me get with Alexis!"

"Wha-?! Alexis? You making your move? Sweet! Good luck, Chazz!" he giggled. "Maybe if you ask real nicely, she'll let you hype her up!"

"Stop teasing!" Chazz sneered. "And get your stuff ready! We're heading out in an hour!"

"What? Already?! But I thought the dorms weren't shutting down until seven tomorrow?!"

Chazz smirked. "That's what the rules say, but the smart'll start early. I wanna be in position to beat all the scrubs as soon as I can!"

"Oh, I get it! You wanna set up shop so we can duel the best, don'tcha? Speaking of which, we never did have a rematch. You up for a Duel?"

"Hmph! Me? Duel a Slifer Slacker? Ha! Meet me in the Finals!" Chazz scoffed. "I don't have time to waste on a Red. I'm going after Zane's throne!"

"Zane? Wait, he's competing?!"

"That's right. Along with another! Someone's who's supposed to be as good as he is. Alexis's brother, Atticus."

-GX-

"Thank you for returning at such short notice," Chancellor Sheppard said sternly.

He was seated in his office, his eyes fixed on the young man standing before him. It had been over a year since the dark-haired youth last set foot in Duel Academy, having spent the time studying at several prestigious academies abroad. His accomplishments had garnered much attention, and the eyes of numerous sponsors, but they were not the reason for his visit today.

Sheppard had called him back, and for what, he didn't yet know.

"No problem, Chancellor. I've missed this place," Atticus said, sporting a charming smile. "The ladies overseas were nice and all, but nothing beats that hometown feel."

"I certainly hope I won't be getting any calls from lovestruck exes?" Sheppard joked.

"Of course not. I know how to let girls down easy. But I've gotta ask. Why the big fuss?" the boy asked. "Is this about the upcoming tournament? What was it? Duelist Kingdom GX?"

"So, you've heard."

"How could I not? It's been broadcast across the whole world! Did you call me back to compete? I'm game, but I've never been in it for titles. Although I wouldn't be mad to see how my little sis has grown as a Duelist."

Sheppard smiled. "You'll be happy to know Alexis is doing just fine. A few incidents aside, she's currently the reigning Queen of the school."

Atticus grinned and gave a thumbs-up. "Yup. That's my Lexie, for ya! She's been a great learner ever since she was little, and I can't wait to see how she's grown!"

"I'm certain you'll have the chance, but I didn't call you back to talk about your sister. I'm afraid there's a more serious matter at hand… one requiring those of your strength."

"Oh, yeah?" Atticus's bright smile turned into something more serious. "What's the matter."

"I'll explain when the others arrive. They should be here soon."

Just a few minutes later, Sheppard's words were proven correct as the door opened. From the entranceway, Zane Truesdale and Sartorius Kumar stepped in.

"Atticus?" Zane greeted, his voice carrying a rare warmth. "It's been a while."

"Zane! Man, it's good to see you! Still the stoic, I see!" winked Atticus. "Wow. You haven't changed a bit."

Zane chuckled. "Neither have you."

The two shook hands, smiling at one another in their own ways. Sartorius watched them, and once they parted, politely offered his own greetings. "Atticus Rhodes. I've heard much about your exploits overseas," he started. "They say you've bested several of the top Duelists from various academies."

"Indeed, he has," Sheppard smiled. "Overseas, he's our pride and joy. As shining a Duelist as Zane's ever been. In fact, the two were once rivals."

"Once?" Atticus asked, raising a brow in Zane's direction. "Someone else come and take my position?"

"Not yet. Though some have tried," Zane said.

"Impressive," Sartorius noted. "This Academy is full of such interesting Duelists…"

Atticus waved a hand dismissively, "Ah, well, you know. I stay busy. But who are you again? I don't remember seeing you around before, Mr…"

"Kumar. Sartorius Kumar. I'm the Academy's new Counselor. I was given the position to curb some of the students' more… violent… tendencies."

"Counselor?" Atticus took in the words for a moment. Then, he gave a thumbs up. "Cool! Always thought we needed one! But… what's a Counselor doing here?"

"You took the words out of my mouth," he replied, solemnly turning to Sheppard. "Why am I here, sir? You wouldn't call me to meet him."

Sheppard nodded at Sartorius's perceptiveness, his expression now completely serious. "You're right, I'm afraid. This meeting isn't just to introduce you to Atticus. There's a larger issue at play. One that requires your help." He took a deep breath. "Have any of you ever heard of the three Sacred Beasts?"

Sartorius's eyes narrowed slightly, though his calm demeanor remained intact. "Yes, I've heard of them. They're said to be Ancient Duel Monsters. Creatures of unparalleled power who were sealed beneath an old, remote island. Are you suggesting the worst has come to pass?"

"I believe so," Sheppard said. "The students aren't aware, but this tournament isn't just to find a new King of Games. It's to draw out a certain group planning on freeing the three Sacred Beasts! If they succeed, the world of Duel Monsters will be changed for the worse. Forever! Cities will die. Spirits will fall. And darkness shall roam the earth!"

"Sounds an old fairy tale," Zane said.

"Oh, I assure you… it's true," someone said. The group turned toward the voice, gazing into the darkness in the corner of the room. From its depths, a tall, lanky figure emerged, holding a box.

"You're…"

"Professor Banner!" Atticus gasped. "You're here, too?"

"Quite so, my boy!" Banner replied. "And I once saw the three Beasts myself! They… are what gave me this scar."

He slowly lifted his shirt, revealing a jagged bruise covering his chest and stomach. Atticus and Zane stepped back in surprise, while Sartorius fixed his gaze on the scab.

"As you can see, these cards are no laughing matter," said Sheppard. "Fortunately, freeing them won't be as easy as learning their location."

Covering his bruise, Banner stepped forward and placed his box on the table. The group watched with bated breath as Sheppard opened it slowly. Inside were five glowing shards, each attached to a tied leather necklace.

"These… are the Spirit Keys," Sheppard said, taking one out. "As you may guess, they are the ticket to freeing the three Sacred Beasts. Without them, not even the darkest of magics can break them from their cage."

"If that's the case, why not destroy them?" Zane asked, taking one out of the box.

"Because the keys and the cage are tied. To destroy one is to break the other," Banner said. "Hiding them is impossible, too, for they give off incredible energy! Left to their own devices, they'll draw nearby Spirits and Duelists to claim them."

"Sounds tough," Atticus said. "But what do we have to do with this?"

"You say that as if you haven't guessed already," Sartorius said, taking a key. "Let me guess. You intend for us to protect these keys during the tournament."

"Not just protect them," Sheppard said, "but to defeat those who seek them out, too. This tournament's prize, the Blank Card, will draw many aspiring Duelists. And among them will be those who seek the real prize: the three Sacred Beasts! I've already received word that one such Duelist has arrived on the island… and I have reason to believe that Mackenzie's pupils will seek them out, too."

"Yes, I surmised as much," Sartorius mused, closing his eyes. "Very well. I suppose we are allowed to utilize any method to protect them?"

"Yes," Sheppard said, "but be warned that the keys can only be claimed in a Duel."

"Heh, sounds like fun," Atticus said, snatching his and grasping it out of the air. "I don't need an excuse to help you out, teach. You've done a lot for me this past year."

"I see no reason to decline," Zane agreed, draping his over his neck.

"Thank you. All of you. You truly are the Academy's jewels," Sheppard said. He took one of the keys and draped them over his own neck, then turned to Banner, watching as the man took the last with a nod.

"Before we end, a question, Chancellor," Sartorius said with a frown. "Would it be alright to relinquish my key to another I trust implicitly?"

"Oh?" Sheppard inquired, raising a brow. "Who did you have in mind?"

"A Duelist who prides himself on seeking out justice… and a dear friend."

TAG FORCE ALTERNATIVE: TWISTING THE TALE
LESSON SEVEN
END

As Duelists worldwide approach Duel Academy to compete in the upcoming tournament, students everywhere complete their new decks, prepare themselves, and… find love? Well now, looks like Konami's sealed the deal with Kami! But will their new relationship flourish or falter in the approaching storm? Guess we'll have to find out together, next time on Twisting the Tale! Lesson Eight! Island-Wide Battle!

Good Luck!

Class dismissed!