A/N: I decided to put this out in advance. So basically, this is the chapter for February. For the next chapter...it'll be out on my birthday on March. Anyways, enjoy the chapter and the beginning of the Synchro Arc.
Back at the headquarters of the Federation of International Vanguard Associations—FIVA for short—the sterile corridors were quiet save for the steady hum of electronics. The atmosphere was tense, as though the walls themselves were bracing for the storm to come. It was in this silence that Ibuki Kouji appeared, materializing at the main terminal after returning from his most recent mission.
He walked with his usual calm yet burdened expression, one hand absently brushing against the deck holstered at his side. His eyes lingered on the familiar cards, the very heart of his bond with the game. Yet, as he held them, his mind was filled with the heavy words exchanged with Harmonics Messiah. Duty, sacrifice, and the vanishing remnants of generations past weighed on him like chains.
A sharp sigh escaped him, breaking the silence—
Only to be shattered again as the office door burst open with a loud crash.
Standing in the doorway was a young man whose presence carried both energy and impatience. His dark blue hair spilled down to the top of his back, unruly yet striking, while his casual orange shirt was offset by a bold blue-and-white jacket. Blue jeans completed the look, though it was his fiery eyes that caught Ibuki's attention first.
"Kamui," Ibuki muttered under his breath, recognizing him instantly.
Katsuragi Kamui was no ordinary fighter—he'sone of Japan's best, a prodigy of Nova Grappler, and a name known worldwide in competitive circles. But to Ibuki, he was also someone who still wore his heart openly on his sleeve, for better or worse.
"Ibuki!!" Kamui's voice echoed through the room with unfiltered urgency. "I heard from Mamoru-san that Ryuki and Emi-san came here! Where are they?!"
Ibuki looked up at him, expression unchanged, and gave a simple answer. "If you'd come earlier, you would've seen them. They've already departed."
The fire in Kamui's eyes dimmed instantly, replaced by visible disappointment. He clenched his fists, the frustration obvious. "Damn it! I wanted to come along and help! I can't believe I missed them..."
Ibuki said nothing at first, studying him with that same sharp gaze. Kamui was loud and brash, but his sincerity was never in question. His drive to protect his friends, and his rivalry with Ryuki, burned as strong as ever.
Their history together was complicated. Years ago, when Ryuki first set foot in Japan, Kamui had been one of the first to greet him. Their friendship started strong, but as Emi began to grow closer to Ryuki, Kamui's insecurities flared. What began as friendly matches turned into desperate challenges, Kamui seeking to prove himself against the one who had, in his eyes, stolen the spotlight. But no matter how many times he fought Ryuki, the outcome was always the same—defeat.
There had been close calls, of course, moments where Kamui thought victory was within reach, only for Ryuki's resilience and calm tactics to snatch it away. It gnawed at him, this cycle of striving and falling short. And yet, beneath his jealousy, Kamui respected Ryuki deeply. Rivalry and admiration wove together like two sides of the same coin.
"It can't be helped," Ibuki finally said, his tone low but firm. "Ryuki's mission doesn't allow for delays. Time is a luxury they cannot afford."
Kamui exhaled heavily, as though forcing himself to accept the reality. But his restless spirit refused to settle.
After a pause, he shifted the conversation. "Ibuki... about the investigation you've been working on." His tone dropped, carrying a rare seriousness.
Ibuki raised an eyebrow. "What about it? Did you notice something new on your end?"
Without a word, Kamui pulled out two decks. One was his old Nova Grappler deck from his elementary school days. The once vibrant cards were now dull, the colors faded into lifeless gray. The other was his current deck, still radiant and full of energy. He placed both before Ibuki, his eyes filled with concern.
Ibuki's expression tightened. He had seen this phenomenon spreading, but it never grew easier to witness. "As I thought... the old generation is beginning to die out," he said grimly.
Kamui's heart sank at the words. "Then... what about Aichi-onii-san's deck? Or Misaki-san's, or Kai's... or even Ryuki's? So many of their decks are from that generation."
Ibuki leaned back in his chair, exhaling slowly. "Aichi's deck remains intact, for reasons I still don't fully understand. Perhaps it is his bond, or something deeper. As for Ryuki—he was forced to set aside his Kagero deck. For now, he wields Narukami... and something else."
Kamui's brow furrowed. "Something else?"
Ibuki's lips curled faintly, not quite a smile. "Gear Chronicle."
The reaction was immediate. Kamui's eyes widened in disbelief, his voice breaking louder than he intended. "Wait—Gear Chronicle?! That's impossible! Only Chrono or Myoujin Ryuzu could ever use that clan!"
"Impossible?" Ibuki repeated, shaking his head. "And yet, Ryuki forged a connection with Ryuzu's deck. Chronofang Tiger chose to fight by his side. The bond was undeniable."
Kamui blinked, trying to absorb the revelation. His rival, the man he chased endlessly, had now aligned himself with one of the most mysterious and forbidden clans in Vanguard's history. The thought made his chest burn with both envy and excitement.
"So... that makes him the third Gear Chronicle user," Kamui murmured, almost in awe. A grin tugged at his lips despite himself. "Heh... who would've thought? Ryuki, of all people, inheriting Myoujin's deck. Guess my rival just keeps climbing higher."
Ibuki allowed the moment to linger before his tone shifted again, carrying something heavier. "There's one more thing you should know."
Kamui tilted his head. "What is it?"
Ibuki's eyes softened, though his words landed like a blade. "Ryuki and Emi are now engaged."
For a moment, time itself seemed to stop. Kamui stood frozen, staring blankly at Ibuki as if he had misheard. His thoughts scrambled for explanation, for denial, for anything but the truth that had just been spoken.
Then it hit him all at once.
His face flushed crimson, his entire body trembling with a storm of emotions—jealousy, heartbreak, rage. His mouth opened, and from the depths of his lungs came a roar that shook the walls.
"RYUKIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII!!!!"
The shout was primal, filled with the frustration of years of rivalry, the sting of unrequited feelings, and the unbearable realization that Emi, the girl he had quietly cherished, was now promised to his greatest rival.
Ibuki simply sighed, resting his chin in one hand, as though he had predicted this reaction down to the very second. Perhaps I shouldn't have told him... but it was bound to reach his ears sooner or later.
As Kamui's cries continued to echo down the corridors of FIVA Headquarters, Ibuki leaned back in his chair, staring at the ceiling with weary eyes. The world was shifting, the generations of fighters fading, and rivalries both personal and cosmic intertwining. Whether Kamui liked it or not, change was here—and it would not wait for anyone.
Meanwhile, back in the Standard Dimension...
The city stood at the edge of chaos. If not for Akaba Himika's swift approval, it would already have been reduced to smoldering ruins. Acting with foresight, she had authorized the activation of a vast Action Field encompassing the city. The shimmering barrier wrapped around every street and tower, a shifting landscape designed to prevent collateral damage. Thanks to it, the citizens could fight without fear of their homes being destroyed—but the battlefield was no less desperate.
All across the capital, duelists stood shoulder to shoulder, clashing against Academia's relentless Obelisk Force. The initial wave had been ferocious: black-clad soldiers swarming in formation, summoning monsters with military precision. Yet the duelists of the Standard Dimension—students from LDS, You Show, and even smaller schools scattered across the city—had risen together, fighting as one. Through grit and unity, they repelled the assault.
But victory was fleeting. The Obelisk Force, drilled to never retreat, regrouped quickly. Their losses mattered little; their numbers seemed endless. And so, while the battered defenders caught their breath, one duelist raised his voice, grim with resolve.
"Stay sharp! The second wave's already forming! They'll be here any moment!"
The words struck like a cold wind, yet no one flinched. Instead, they braced themselves, clutching their decks as though holding on to their very souls.
Then the sky rippled. A new portal tore open above the city, crackling with violet energy. Out from the vortex descended familiar figures—determined faces, coats fluttering in the unnatural wind. The Lancers had returned.
Cheers erupted among the weary defenders, morale soaring instantly. Hope had arrived not as an abstract promise, but as comrades in arms.
Christopher Lo landed at the forefront, his expression steeled with purpose. Having been entrusted by Reiji Akaba himself, he wasted no time taking command. "Report. What's the current situation here?"
A duelist hurried forward, sweat streaking his brow. "We managed to repel the first wave. But the second... it won't be long before they're on top of us."
Christopher nodded once, decisive. "Understood. You've done enough. Stand down and recover your strength. From here, the Lancers will take over." His tone carried no arrogance—only conviction. It was the voice of a leader rallying tired soldiers.
Before the duelist could even thank him, two more figures approached—Nakajima, the city's steadfast overseer, and Himika herself, her sharp eyes watching everything with the calm authority of someone who carried both political power and maternal concern.
"Christopher-san," Himika began, her voice tinged with surprise. "What are you doing here? Weren't you meant to be at Reiji-san's side?"
It was Barret who stepped forward to answer, the one-eyed veteran crossing his arms. "Reiji and Ryuki instructed us to return. When we saw the city under siege, we split our forces. Reiji leads the others into the Synchro Dimension even now."
Himika's stern features softened, a quiet exhale escaping her lips. She understood the weight of her son's decision. Splitting their strength was risky, but it was also the only way to protect every front at once. So... this is the boldness you've inherited, Reiji-san, she thought with quiet pride.
Christopher stepped in again, shifting the focus back to strategy. "Nakajima. Reiji has granted me access to the city's main system. If Academia attempts to disrupt or sabotage us digitally, I'll be able to track their movements and cut them off."
Nakajima, ever the reliable aide, produced a sleek tablet and handed it over. "This device is already linked to the system. All security layers are open to you. Use it wisely."
Christopher accepted the tablet with a firm nod. "Leave it to me. They won't blindside us while I'm watching."
The air grew heavier then, tension curling like smoke as the warning cries rose. The second wave had arrived. Down the main avenue, new squads of the Obelisk Force marched in rigid formations, their duel disks already igniting with sinister light. The sound of their boots striking in unison was like a war drum, announcing relentless aggression.
Barret stepped forward, rolling his shoulders with casual menace, his one good eye glinting. Beside him, Fubuki Tenjoin appeared, his ever-cheerful smile hiding a sharp focus that only surfaced in battle. The veteran cracked his knuckles audibly, as though the sound alone was enough to unnerve their foes.
"Guess it's our turn," Barret rumbled, his voice low but brimming with challenge. "Me and Fubuki will handle this group. The rest of you spread out and prepare for enemies on other fronts."
Fubuki gave a jaunty salute, his grin widening. "Don't worry, we'll warm them up for you. Just make sure you're ready when the real storm hits."
Around them, the Lancers broke into position with practiced efficiency. Aichi Sendou, always calm even in chaos, drew his deck with quiet reverence. Others followed suit, the glow of duel disks igniting across the battlefield, casting streaks of red, green, and blue light that danced against the backdrop of the Action Field.
The defenders of the Standard Dimension raised their voices as one, meeting the second wave without fear. The clash was inevitable, and no one intended to back down.
The duel disks activated simultaneously, the sound like the striking of swords.
"DUEL!!"
The word roared across the battlefield, a single cry of defiance against the shadow of Academia.
And so, the second battle for the Standard Dimension began.
-----
Meanwhile, outside the Standard Dimension...
A blinding flash split through the shadows of a narrow alleyway before fading into silence. When the light cleared, four figures materialized—Yuya, Sawatari, Serena, and Yuto.
Yuya blinked rapidly, disoriented from the sudden transition. Around them, the air was thick with dust, the faint smell of rust and smoke lingering in every breath. Dilapidated buildings lined the cramped alley, their walls cracked, windows shattered, and roofs patched with scrap metal. The silence here wasn't peaceful—it was suffocating.
Sawatari grimaced, brushing dirt from his flamboyant outfit. "Oi... this dump doesn't look like Paradise. Are we really in the Synchro Dimension?" His tone was skeptical, but the unease in his eyes betrayed his nerves.
Serena stepped out of the alley first, her boots crunching against gravel as she pushed forward. Once she reached the edge, she froze. "Yes... this is the Synchro Dimension," she confirmed, her voice carrying both certainty and concern. She motioned for the others to join her.
Yuya, Yuto, and Sawatari emerged and immediately stopped in their tracks. Above them stretched a massive city, glittering in harsh, artificial lights. The high-rise towers gleamed coldly against the night sky, their neon signs burning bright, yet far out of reach. From their vantage point in the alleys below, the contrast was stark—the shining metropolis looming above while they stood in the shadows of its neglected underbelly.
"The Commons..." Serena muttered grimly. "This must be the Commons area. These ruins... this is where the poor are forced to live."
Yuto narrowed his eyes, scanning their surroundings with quiet suspicion. "Ryuki and the others aren't here. We must have been separated when we crossed dimensions."
Yuya clenched his fists, frustration bubbling in his chest. "Great... just when we need to stay together."
As the weight of their situation settled, Sawatari bit his lip. The son of a politician, he had grown up around wealth, power, and order. To now stand in a place scarred by poverty and neglect rattled him more than he wanted to admit. He could feel the injustice pressing down on him, but unlike the privileged halls of his father's world, here he was powerless. Whatever fate awaited them, he could only grit his teeth and endure.
The stillness shattered with the piercing wail of sirens. Red lights flared, sweeping across the narrow streets as a squad of armored enforcers advanced.
"Sector Security..." Yuya muttered under his breath.
Yuto's jaw tightened, his instincts kicking in. "Damn it. They spotted us already?" The last thing he wanted was to waste time clashing with guards when their mission was more important.
The metallic clatter of boots grew louder as Sector Security agents funneled into the alleys, their duel disks primed and glowing. One officer barked orders through a megaphone, his voice echoing against the broken walls. "You four are surrounded! Drop your decks and surrender immediately!"
Serena stepped forward, defiance blazing in her eyes. "Like hell we will!" Her duel disk snapped open with a sharp metallic click, Sawatari following suit with shaky bravado.
But before they could escalate, Yuya's duel disk vibrated. A message had come through. He glanced down—and his eyes widened.
"It's from Ryuki!"
The others turned sharply. Yuya expanded the message, revealing a digital map projected in midair. A path highlighted itself in bright blue, threading through the labyrinthine alleys with precision.
"It's directions," Yuya explained quickly. "A route to dodge Sector Security and get out of this trap!"
Yuto gave a short nod, trusting Ryuki's judgment. "Then we follow it. Move!"
Without hesitation, the four broke into a sprint. Shouts erupted behind them as the Sector Security gave chase, boots thundering against concrete. The air filled with the shrill sound of whistles and the grinding whir of mechanical engines as drones rose overhead, spotlighting the fugitives.
Yuya led the charge, his eyes locked on the glowing path Ryuki had sent. Every turn they made, every sudden pivot, felt like a razor's edge escape. Yet the map's precision guided them, threading them through gaps just as blockades snapped into place behind them.
Still, the chase intensified. Sector Security had anticipated some routes, cutting them off with barricades and more troops. The narrow alleys became a maze of dead ends and choke points.
"Don't stop!" Yuya shouted, his lungs burning. "Keep running!"
Their legs pumped furiously, every second stretching longer as the noose tightened.
Then—salvation appeared.
From the rooftops ahead, a shadowed figure leapt down with uncanny agility. As he landed, he hurled a small sphere at the ground. The moment it cracked open, a thick plume of smoke erupted, swallowing the alley in gray haze.
"Over here!" the figure called.
Yuya's heart leapt with recognition. "Tsuchikage!"
The shinobi's sudden intervention threw Sector Security into chaos. Coughing and disoriented, the officers stumbled blindly in the smoke. Yuya, Yuto, Serena, and Sawatari bolted toward the figure, guided by his hand signals through the haze.
Within moments, the group vanished into the labyrinth once more, leaving the confused Security agents behind.
A distant corner of the Commons—far removed from flashing sirens and pounding boots.
The four collapsed against the walls of an abandoned building, gasping for breath. Their bodies shook from exhaustion, sweat dripping freely down their faces. Yuya bent over, clutching his knees as he panted hard. "I... I thought... all that stamina training... would help... but running from the police... is not what I had in mind..."
Sawatari slumped against the wall, face pale. "I—I think I left my dignity three streets back..."
Despite herself, Serena let out a short, exasperated laugh, though her expression quickly hardened. "We can't let our guard down. They'll regroup fast."
Yuto, though breathing heavily, steadied himself quicker than the others. His eyes turned toward their rescuer. "Tsuchikage. How did you find us?"
The shinobi adjusted his headscarf calmly, his demeanor as unshaken as ever. "Ryuki-dono foresaw the risk of separation. He activated a tracker linked to your Duel Diskss. When your arrival point registered closest to me, Reiji-dono instructed me to intercept and extract you."
Yuya's expression softened with relief. "So Ryuki... he already had a backup plan."
Sawatari straightened slightly, though his pride still stung. "And where exactly are they? Don't tell me they left us to wander while they're sipping tea in some fancy tower."
Tsuchikage's eyes narrowed slightly, his tone firm but calm. "They are working their own mission as they negotiate with the people we're with now. If you want to reunite, follow me. But understand—this city is hostile to outsiders. Until then, you must keep a low profile."
The group exchanged glances. Weariness weighed on them, but so did determination. At last, Yuya nodded. "Alright. Lead the way. We'll follow you to Ryuki and Reiji."
And with that, the four duelists, under Tsuchikage's watchful guidance, began their cautious trek deeper into the Commons—toward danger, allies, and the battles that awaited them.
At the heart of the Synchro Dimension's shining metropolis stood a structure that dominated the skyline. The Sector Security Headquarters—an imposing fortress of glass, steel, and authority—dwarfed the skyscrapers around it, its spire casting a long shadow over both the glittering Tops and the dim Commons below. Within its nerve center, walls of monitors flickered with live surveillance feeds. At the center of it all, seated with a commanding presence, was Jean Michel Roget.
The man was instantly recognizable: sharp green eyes, ash-blond hair brushed back neatly, and a long nose that gave him an air of superiority. Draped in a tailored purple suit, Roget exuded the aura of someone who believed himself above the very world he monitored. Once a brilliant Academia researcher, he was now a fugitive—a man who had abandoned one master, only to establish himself as another. As Director of Sector Security, he ruled this dimension with both velvet glove and iron fist, though none could mistake his intentions for benevolent.
On the main screen, Roget observed the chaotic escape of Yuya, Yuto, Serena, and Sawatari. He leaned back with a soft exhale, almost disappointed.
"Persistent little pests," Roget murmured, his voice smooth, betraying no panic. "Always slipping through the cracks."
"Director," one of the operators called out, fingers flying across the console. "We've detected an unknown signal in the Tops area."
Roget's posture straightened slightly. "Pinpoint the coordinates."
"Yes, sir," the worker responded, bringing up a map with a flashing marker. The precise location appeared on the central display. A thin grin spread across Roget's face, his eyes gleaming with opportunistic delight.
"Perfect. Dispatch the Security Force to that location immediately. It's time... he finally receives the judgment he deserves."
The room stirred into motion at his command. Dozens of screens updated, showing squads of D-Wheel units and armed patrols mobilizing.
"Director," another worker interjected nervously, "we've also picked up a faint signal within the Commons. It doesn't match the first one, but it's there."
Roget barely spared it a glance. He waved a hand dismissively. "Irrelevant. The Commons is always teeming with interference. Focus on the priority signal. The rest will deal with themselves in due time."
"Yes, Director."
As the orders echoed across the control room, Roget's smile widened. The game board was set, and he was eager to make his next move.
Meanwhile, at a quieter corner of the Commons, another story unfolded.
A sudden shimmer of light deposited Yuzu, Ruri, Rin, Yuri, and Yugo onto cracked pavement in front of an old yet familiar building. The faint smell of concrete dust mixed with the distant aroma of street food drifting from the alleyways.
Yuzu steadied herself and looked around. "Is this... the Synchro Dimension?"
Before anyone could answer, Yugo's eyes lit up with recognition. His gaze snapped to the building before them, and he broke into a grin so wide it seemed to erase every hardship he'd endured.
"Rin! Look!" he shouted, pointing eagerly. "We're back! Do you see it?"
Rin followed his finger. Her breath caught, and her usual composure wavered. The sight before her—the whitewashed building with its modest structure and neat windows—was unmistakable.
"It is... it really is..." Her voice trembled with a mixture of disbelief and joy. "We're home."
Ruri tilted her head, curious. "Rin, what's this place? Why does it feel so important to you?"
Rin pressed a hand to her chest, her lips curving into a bittersweet smile. "This is the White Wing Orphanage. The place where Yugo and I grew up. We were orphans here, raised alongside so many others. This isn't just a building—it's... where our story began."
The group fell silent, absorbing the weight of her words.
Yuri broke the quiet, his sharp eyes scanning the structure. "Interesting. Compared to the other Commons buildings, this one is remarkably well maintained."
Rin nodded. "That's because the orphanage has a sponsor—someone who's been quietly funding its upkeep. They provide food and clothing, not just for us, but for other families in the Commons. It's why this place has been safe from Sector Security's harassment."
Yugo clenched his fists, a spark of boyish excitement igniting in him. "Do you think Mara-san's still here?"
Yuzu blinked. "Mara-san?"
"She's our caretaker," Rin explained softly. "A kindhearted woman who treated every child here like her own. If anyone can help us, it's her."
Without further hesitation, the group stepped inside.
The interior was alive with laughter and chaos. Children ran up and down the hallways, their bare feet slapping against the polished wood floors. Toys were scattered across the common room, and walls were decorated with crude but cheerful drawings. The moment the kids spotted Rin and Yugo, a cheer erupted.
"They're back! Yugo and Rin are back!"
The younger ones rushed them, tackling them to the ground in an uncoordinated wave of affection. Yugo and Rin burst into laughter, both overwhelmed and touched.
"Hey, hey—easy!" Yugo wheezed, arms flailing as children clung to him. "I can't breathe!"
Rin chuckled as she patted the heads of the little ones who refused to let go. "You all grew so much..."
"Children!" a firm, mature voice rang out. The crowd of kids instantly froze and parted like a tide.
Down the hallway came a woman in her late forties. Her maroon blouse and long skirt were modest, but the way she carried herself exuded authority tempered by warmth. Her long brown hair, tied back in a ponytail, swayed as she walked.
When her eyes fell upon Rin and Yugo, her breath hitched. "It can't be..."
"Mara-san!" Yugo's voice cracked with joy as he waved enthusiastically. "We're home!"
For a moment, Mara stood frozen. Then her stern expression melted into one of astonishment and relief. "You two... after all this time..." She stepped forward quickly, her arms half-raised as though she couldn't decide whether to scold them or embrace them. Only then did she notice the others standing behind.
"And you've brought... guests," Mara said, her tone wary but not unkind.
Rin straightened, her voice calm. "Yes. They're our companions. It's a long story, and one best not told in the open. Could we... use your office to explain?"
Mara's eyes lingered on the group for a moment longer before she gave a small nod. "Very well. Follow me. But keep your voices low—the little ones needn't be burdened with matters beyond their innocence."
As the group trailed behind her down the hallway, Yuzu glanced at Rin, whispering. "She seems strict, but caring."
Rin's lips curved into a faint smile. "That's Mara-san. She saved us when we had nothing. If we can trust anyone here, it's her."
They entered a modest office lined with bookshelves and neatly stacked files. A simple desk sat near the window, sunlight filtering through the curtains. Mara gestured for them to sit.
"Now then," she said, folding her hands together, "tell me everything. I want to understand why fate has returned you to us... and who these new companions truly are."
Inside the quiet refuge of her office, Mara folded her hands atop the desk and regarded the newcomers with calm eyes. Despite the laughter of children echoing faintly down the halls, there was a subtle weight in the air—like the silence before a storm.
"My name is Mara," she began, her tone warm yet authoritative. "I am the caretaker of the White Wing Orphanage. Yugo and Rin have been with me since they were small—among the eldest of the children I've raised. Now..." Her gaze shifted to the three unfamiliar faces. "...who are you?"
Yuzu was the first to speak, dipping her head politely. "I'm Hiiragi Yuzu. I traveled here with them."
Ruri followed, her voice steady but tinged with quiet determination. "I'm Kurosaki Ruri. I've been by Rin's side for the past few months."
The last to answer was Yuri. His introduction came softer than usual, lacking the arrogant edge the others had come to expect. "And I'm Kusakabe Yuri."
The shift in his tone was subtle, but noticeable. Yuzu and Ruri exchanged a quick glance; even Rin caught it, and her eyes softened slightly.
Introductions complete, Rin took a deep breath and began recounting everything. Her voice trembled at first, but as the memories resurfaced—the abduction, Yuri's role in it, the escape through fire and shadow, the mysterious aid of Ryuki—her words grew steadier. She spoke of her new life, the comrades she had found, and the truth that weighed on all of them: the war engulfing their worlds and the looming threat that had brought them back to the Synchro Dimension.
When her story ended, silence lingered. Mara leaned back in her chair, exhaling through her nose. For a moment, the five feared skepticism.
"...That is quite the tale," Mara finally said.
Yuzu clasped her hands nervously. Ruri's expression tensed. Even Yugo held his breath.
But Mara's gaze returned to Rin, unwavering. "Yet I believe you. Rin has never been one to fabricate stories, no matter how outlandish they might sound. If she says this is the truth... then I accept it."
Relief washed over the group, but Mara's eyes drifted toward Yuri. His shoulders stiffened, expecting condemnation. He was the cause of Rin's pain, after all—the one who had stolen her away.
Yet Mara surprised him. She rose from her chair, walked around the desk, and placed her hands gently on his shoulders. Her touch was firm but not harsh.
"Young man," she said softly, "you carry guilt. I see it in your eyes. But guilt alone does not define you. You are still so very young, and the young make mistakes—sometimes grave ones. What matters is that you are here now, striving to right your wrongs. That courage, that willingness to change, is worth more than endless apologies."
Yuri's breath caught. He looked down, unable to meet her eyes, but whispered, "...Thank you."
Mara gave his shoulder a reassuring squeeze before returning to her seat. "Now then. Tell me—what comes next?"
Ruri was the first to respond. "We need to find our friends, regroup, and plan our next move. We can't face this war alone."
Mara nodded slowly. "And do you know where these friends might be?"
Yuzu shook her head. "No. We were separated when we arrived. Right now, we don't even know if they're safe."
"Then until you do, stay here," Mara said firmly. "This place is safe, for the moment. Rest, gather your strength. You'll need it."
She hesitated, then added, "Besides... in a few days, the Friendship Cup begins."
Yugo's eyes widened, and Rin's lips parted in surprise. Excitement immediately colored their expressions.
"The Friendship Cup!" Yugo blurted.
"Of course..." Rin said softly, her face lighting up.
Ruri tilted her head. "What's that?"
Rin explained, her tone tinged with nostalgia. "It's the Synchro Dimension's grand tournament. Duelists from the Tops, the Commons, and even other parts of the world gather to compete. And the prize—" her eyes gleamed "—is the chance to challenge Jack Atlas, the city's strongest duelist. He's... practically a legend here."
At the mention of Jack's name, Yugo clenched his fists. "If I win, I'll get to duel Jack! This time, I'll prove myself for real! Well, we can't participate since we're underage back then. But now, we have a chance."
Yuri's lips curled into a calculating smirk. "This could work in our favor. If the Lancers enter the Friendship Cup and one of us rises to the top, defeating even Jack Atlas, we could sway this entire dimension. Imagine it—the Synchro Dimension, allied with us in this war."
The idea struck the others like lightning. Yuzu, Rin, and Ruri all stood at once, their resolve clear. Yugo practically vibrated with energy, though a sudden realization wiped the grin from his face.
"...Wait. My D-Wheel!" His panic rose instantly. "It's gone! I—I can't duel in the Cup without it!"
Before he could spiral further, Mara's calm voice cut through. "Breathe, Yugo. Look at me."
Her steady tone grounded him. Rin, ever quick-thinking, pulled out her Duel Disk and began scrolling through its functions. Her eyes widened as she discovered a hidden feature.
"Reiji... and Ryuki..." she murmured. "They thought of everything."
She turned the screen toward the others. A sleek model of a D-Wheel shimmered into view, coded into the Duel Disk itself.
"They installed a system," Rin explained. "We can materialize D-Wheels directly from our Duel Disks. Portable, convenient, and designed for emergency use. Just—" she gave Yugo a pointed look "—not indoors."
Yugo quickly checked his own Duel Disk, and relief flooded him when his familiar D-Wheel appeared in holographic form. He almost fell to his knees in gratitude.
"Thank goodness..." he muttered.
Mara, however, had more news. "There is something else. Today, visitors are coming to the orphanage—not to adopt, but to ask for support. They want the orphanage to back them in the Friendship Cup."
Rin raised a brow. "Support them? Who are they?"
"You'll know soon enough," Mara replied. Right on cue, a knock echoed from the front door.
"Come in!" Mara called.
The door opened, and two men entered. The first was rugged, with spiky orange hair and a casual yellow t-shirt beneath a brown cargo vest. The second carried himself like a duelist born for the track: purple hair with streaks of blue at the base, a fitted biker suit patterned in yellow and blue, his half-open jacket revealing a gray shirt beneath. His boots and gloves completed the look of someone accustomed to speed and risk.
"Crow! Shinji!" Yugo exclaimed, his voice bursting with joy.
The orange-haired man grinned broadly. "Yugo! You're back!"
The purple-haired Shinji's eyes softened as he glanced at Rin. "If you're here, that must mean you found her."
Yugo beamed, placing a hand proudly on Rin's shoulder. "I did! And we've decided—we're entering the Friendship Cup too!"
Crow chuckled, folding his arms. "Think this is your time, huh?"
"Sure do!" Yugo shot back confidently. "I've gotten a lot stronger while I was away, you'll see!"
Before their reunion could continue, Yuzu's Duel Disk chimed. She tapped the screen, revealing a new message.
"It's from Yuya," she announced.
Yuri leaned forward. "Well? What does he say?"
Yuzu scanned the text quickly. "He says he, Serena, Yuto, and Sawatari are with Tsuchikage. They're on their way to Ryuki right now."
Crow frowned, curiosity piqued. "Ryuki? What's going on here, Yugo? Rin?"
Rin exchanged a glance with her friends, then sighed. "It's... a very long story."
Shinji leaned against the wall, crossing his arms. "We've got time. Start from the beginning."
And so Rin did. From the shadows of Academia to the rise of the Lancers, from despair to defiance, she began weaving the tale once more—this time for the comrades who would soon share in their fate.
-----
Meanwhile, beyond the crowded Commons district, the cityscape transformed into something altogether different. Gleaming towers rose into the night, their mirrored surfaces catching the glow of neon and moonlight alike. This was the Tops—where luxury and authority intertwined, and where the glitter of wealth deliberately blinded the world to the suffering beneath it.
On the eastern edge of this district stood a manor unlike any other. Its walls, carved from marbled silver, shone with a cold brilliance, a monument to affluence and silent defiance. The air smelled faintly of polished steel and perfumed gardens, as though every inch of the property was designed to remind visitors of who truly held power here.
Within the manor, a gathering had already formed. Ryuki, Reiji, Reira, Emi, and Kenji stood together in the vast entry hall, its vaulted ceiling adorned with ornate chandeliers. Waiting for them was a man of quiet authority: Rex Goodwin. He appeared to be in his early forties, tall and broad-shouldered, his long silver-gray hair cascading to his lower back, save for one section tied neatly into a ponytail. Dressed in a sharp dark-gray suit over a collared shirt, Rex radiated the refined presence of one who had once held immense power—and had not entirely let it go.
The reason for this meeting was no coincidence. Rex had been expecting them. His network of informants and his mastery of the city's hidden channels had allowed him to pinpoint the very moment Ryuki and his companions entered the Synchro Dimension. The signal he traced led directly to his manor's vicinity. When Ryuki's group had arrived, they found themselves instantly surrounded by Rex's private security, every man and woman loyal to their master.
Ryuki and Reiji, both keenly alert, had instinctively prepared themselves for confrontation. Yet Rex defused the tension with calm words and an open gesture. He introduced himself without arrogance, explaining that he intended to share his story. His tone carried the weight of sincerity—tinged, perhaps, with a guarded desperation. Trust was not easily earned, but in this moment, the Lancers could sense that he was not their enemy.
Still cautious, Reiji had turned to Tsuchikage before they followed Rex inside. "Locate the others," he ordered. "Bring them to safety."
The shinobi gave a curt nod and vanished into the night, leaving Ryuki's group to enter the manor behind Rex Goodwin.
Inside the grand chamber, conversation soon gave way to revelations. Rex, settling into a high-backed chair, began his tale. His voice was steady but carried undercurrents of bitterness, as though each word had been sharpened by years of betrayal.
"Once," he began, "I served as Director of Sector Security. Under my watch, the divide between the Tops and the Commons was far narrower. The city was not perfect—far from it—but there was balance. Wealth and hardship coexisted without open bloodshed. The people had hope, and even the Commons could dream of better days."
His eyes hardened, his expression turning grim. "Then Roget came. With him, came the decay."
The name alone was enough to darken the room. Emi drew in a sharp breath, while Reira stiffened beside her.
Rex continued, "Roget stole my position and twisted everything I had built. Under his reign, wealth was seized from the hands of the many and hoarded by the few. Today, ninety-nine percent of the city's riches are clutched by the Tops, while the Commons are left to starve on the one percent that remains. It is not governance—it is tyranny dressed in the guise of order."
Silence fell after his words, heavy and suffocating. The faint crackle of the fireplace was the only sound.
Reiji was the first to break it. His tone was sharp, probing. "If you were stripped of your authority, how is it that you still live among the Tops? Roget does not leave loose ends."
A faint smile tugged at Rex's lips, though it did not reach his eyes. "Connections," he said simply. "The web I spun as Director extends far beyond this city—into other nations, outside of the city's borders even. Roget could take my title, but he could not erase my influence. He dared not move openly against me, lest he reveal his own fear of what I still represent."
Ryuki crossed his arms, studying Rex with an unreadable expression. He could sense the truth in the man's words, but he also knew that truth often came laced with hidden motives.
Rex's gaze swept across the group, lingering briefly on each of them. "Do not think for a moment that Roget has not tried. Time and again, he has sent his hounds to drag me into chains. Each time, my people—those loyal beyond coin or coercion—drove them back. This manor has withstood sieges, infiltration, and more. And still, I remain."
Kenji, who had remained silent until now, frowned. "You speak as though you are untouchable. But what you're really saying is that Roget's shadow looms over everything, and even here, you're fighting for survival."
Rex inclined his head, acknowledging the truth in Kenji's words. "Indeed. My survival is not comfort—it is resistance. And it is only because of that resistance that I am able to stand before you today."
Reira, small but sharp-eyed, leaned forward. "Then why help us? Why not simply protect your own? Surely it would be easier to let outsiders burn themselves against Roget's walls."
At this, Rex's gaze softened just slightly. "Because I have seen the cost of doing nothing. The Commons are bleeding. The Tops are rotting from within. Roget's grip tightens by the day, and if no one acts, this city will collapse into chaos. I alone cannot topple him. But with you—perhaps there is a chance."
Ryuki exhaled slowly, his mind racing with possibilities. This man, Rex Goodwin, had once been the pillar of this world. Stripped of power yet still standing, he was both a remnant of the old order and a potential ally for the future.
The room seemed to hold its breath, as though even the walls waited to see what decision would be made next.
After Rex finished telling his story, the air in the silver-walled manor settled into a contemplative silence. Then Reiji, ever the strategist, took the lead. His voice carried steady authority as he explained the truth of the Four Dimensions, the war Harmonics had forewarned them about, and the purpose of the Lancers' journey to the Synchro Dimension.
He spoke without pause, weaving together the history of the dimensions, the manipulations of the Fusion army, and the gravity of their mission to unite every world against the encroaching threat. Each word seemed to weigh heavily, echoing against the marble walls as though the manor itself acknowledged the enormity of their task.
When Reiji finally finished, Rex leaned back in his chair, folding his hands before him. A slow smile crept across his face—not mocking, not skeptical, but tinged with the relief of a man whose suspicions had at last been vindicated.
"You know," Rex said, his voice low but firm, "I expected half-truths or political maneuvering. But this... this confirms everything I uncovered. Your tale is no fabrication. It matches too closely with my own findings."
Ryuki narrowed his eyes. "You believe him too quickly. Most men would scoff at talk of parallel worlds."
Rex chuckled, the sound carrying both weariness and sharp confidence. "I might have, once. But when Roget seized my post, I began to dig deeper. I reached beyond the walls of this city, calling upon my contacts in places that even he cannot touch. And what I uncovered..." He leaned forward, his tone sharpening. "Roget is not of this dimension. The records, the trails he left behind, the inconsistencies—they all point to that truth. Once I realized this, I devoted myself to the study of different-dimensional theory. The evidence was scattered, fragmented... until you appeared. Your arrival makes the puzzle whole. My years of suspicion—proven beyond doubt."
Kenji crossed his arms, tilting his head. "So... what now? Do you intend to turn us over to him? Offer us up like bargaining chips?"
The faintest flicker of amusement crossed Rex's eyes. He shook his head. "Oh heavens, no. On the contrary—I would ask for your help."
That made Emi's expression tighten. She leaned forward, eyes sharp as glass. "You want us to help you remove Roget from power."
"Precisely, young lass." Rex's smile widened, though it was tempered by the gravity of his words. "I have prepared for this day. Built networks, rallied loyal men and women, and weathered Roget's constant assaults. With you here, with your strength, we may finally succeed. I can take back what was stolen."
Ryuki, however, was far from satisfied. Adjusting the gloves on his hands, he fixed Rex with a piercing look. "Tell me, Mr. Goodwin. Suppose you do reclaim your position. What then? Do you simply rebuild the old order? Or do you intend something different?"
Rex grew solemn. His gaze drifted to the window, where the faint lights of the Commons flickered in the distance like dying embers beneath the gleaming towers of the Tops. "Ten years ago, I had a dream. A plan. To abolish this wretched dichotomy between Tops and Commons. For too long, the elite have taken everything while leaving the masses with scraps. I envisioned a city where both could flourish together—a balance of prosperity and opportunity. But Roget shattered that dream before it could take form. Now..." He turned back to them, his voice unwavering. "Now, with your help, I may yet see it realized."
The sincerity in his tone was unmistakable. Ryuki and Reiji exchanged a long, silent glance. For once, the two tacticians found their instincts aligned.
Reiji inclined his head slightly. "Very well. We will lend you our aid. But on one condition: my team, who came here with me, must be kept safe. They are under my protection, and I will not see them lost to Roget's schemes."
"Consider it done," Rex answered without hesitation. "My men will shield them as though they were my own blood."
Satisfied, Reiji pressed further. "You also spoke of gaining this dimension's support. How?"
Rex's smile returned, touched now with a strategist's spark. "Through the Friendship Cup."
Reiji's brow arched. "The Friendship Cup?"
"It is a tournament held once a year," Rex explained. "A spectacle of dueling where Tops, Commons, and even challengers from abroad converge. Duelists fight their way through the brackets for the honor of facing the reigning King—Jack Atlas. And thus far, none have dethroned him. The Cup is more than a tournament—it is the city's heartbeat, where strength earns respect and reputations are forged."
The words drew Ryuki's attention. His eyes narrowed with curiosity. "Interesting. And when does this tournament begin?"
"In one week's time," Rex replied. "Registration is still open, and—"
The sudden arrival of one of Rex's maids cut him off. She rushed into the room, her expression pale and urgent. "Sir—Sector Security has been dispatched. Roget's forces are here. They've surrounded the manor."
For a heartbeat, silence reigned. Rex exhaled, the weariness in his breath betraying how familiar this scenario had become. "So... it begins again." He rose from his chair, straightening his suit as though preparing for battle. "Forgive the disruption, my guests. But it seems I must deal with this myself."
Ryuki stepped forward, stopping him with a raised hand. His voice carried calm certainty. "No. Allow us. Let the Lancers show you what we are capable of. Consider it both a demonstration of our strength—and a message to Roget."
Rex paused, studying the young duelist with keen interest. There was steel in Ryuki's gaze, a quiet resolve that reminded him of men he had once commanded. Slowly, Rex's lips curved into a faint grin. "Very well. Impress me. If you succeed, I will personally endorse the Lancers' entry into the Friendship Cup."
At that, Ryuki turned to his allies. Kenji and Emi rose beside him, determination alight in their expressions. The three walked toward the manor's great doors, each step echoing across the silver hall. Outside, the rumble of engines and the shouts of Sector Security officers grew louder. Floodlights washed over the gates, and the metallic clang of weapons being readied filled the night.
Kenji smirked, cracking his knuckles. "Guess it's time we gave Roget's lapdogs a proper welcome."
Emi's eyes burned with resolve. "Let them come. We'll show them the strength of the Lancers—and why they should never underestimate us."
Ryuki simply adjusted his gloves once more, his gaze sharp as lightning. "This is more than a fight. It's our declaration. Let's make sure they hear it loud and clear."
With that, the great doors swung open. The night air rushed in, carrying with it the tension of battle about to unfold. Sector Security forces lined the front gates, their vehicles forming barricades, their weapons gleaming beneath the floodlights. The officers raised their voices, demanding surrender.
But Ryuki, Kenji, and Emi stepped forward without fear. They would not bow to intimidation. Tonight, they would fight not just to protect Rex's manor, but to prove—to Rex, to Roget, and to the city itself—that the Lancers had arrived.
As Ryuki, Kenji, and Emi stepped out onto the marble steps of Rex Goodwin's manor, the sight before them was daunting. Sector Security had already thrown a cordon around the estate. Floodlights blazed down, casting stark shadows across the courtyard, while rows of officers stood firm, their Duel Disks gleaming like drawn weapons. Nine officers advanced in formation, splitting neatly into trios as if to box the defenders in from every angle.
The three Lancers exchanged quick nods. No words were needed—they understood the plan. Each of them would take three opponents, cutting through Roget's men in their own way.
Ryuki narrowed his eyes, his expression unreadable as he calmly raised his Duel Disk. With a flick of his wrist, the crimson GIRS system activated. A surge of energy burst forth, and a sleek, scarlet Duel Board materialized in front of him, hovering in midair with a low hum. His deck glimmered into being, cards sliding into place as though answering his call.
Emi smirked, her ocean-blue Duel Board roaring to life, its sharp edges reflecting the light like polished steel. "Let's show them just what the Lancers are made of."
Beside her, Kenji activated his own GIRS. A mechanical silver Duel Board with angular plating and glowing circuitry unfolded before him, every part of it radiating his affinity for precision and machine-like efficiency. He cracked his neck, sizing up his assigned opponents with a fighter's composure.
From the manor's grand windows, Rex Goodwin and his attendants observed intently. His eyes widened slightly as he took in the strange, advanced systems. "So this... this is the power of the Lancers' technology. Fascinating." His voice carried both curiosity and approval.
Back in the courtyard, one of the Sector Security officers squaring off against Ryuki stepped forward, his voice amplified by his Duel Disk's speakers. "You're making a grave mistake, boy. Facing three of us at once isn't bravery—it's suicide. Surrender now, and perhaps we'll only bring you in for questioning."
The officers behind him chuckled darkly, already imagining an easy capture.
But Ryuki's gaze never wavered. He adjusted the cuff of his gloves and replied in a steady, unshaken tone. "If you want me, then earn it. Beat me here, if you can."
The sharpness of his voice carried across the courtyard, silencing the mocking laughter. It was not arrogance but a promise—a declaration that he would not bend.
The officers exchanged glances, clearly unsettled by his composure. Then, with grim resolve, they raised their Duel Disks in unison. The whirring sound of activation filled the night air as holographic projectors lit up the space between them.
"Fine then," one of them spat. "You've chosen your fate. Don't think you'll walk away once this is over."
Ryuki raised his arm, crimson sparks racing along the edge of his Duel Disk. "Save your threats. Let your cards do the talking."
The holographic field surged, surrounding the courtyard in a shimmering dome of light. Duel Boards hovered into position, engines humming as the systems synced. The entire atmosphere shifted, the air alive with the energy of battle about to begin.
The call echoed from both sides, loud and commanding:
"DUEL!"
Holographic Life Point counters flickered to life, casting their glow across the stone pavement.
Ryuki: 4000 | Hand: 5
Security 1: 4000 | Hand: 5
Security 2: 4000 | Hand: 5
Security 3: 4000 | Hand: 5
Rex watched with an intensity that none of his attendants had seen in years. "Show me, Lancers... prove to me your strength. Prove that you are worthy of standing against Roget—and against the fate that looms over us all."
The first cards were drawn.
The battles for Rex's manor had begun.