7. Yu-Gi-Oh ARC-V A New Story of Pendulum (Synchro Arc)

Chapter 14 The Light and Darkness of the City

"The special match commemorating the eve of the Friendship Cup!" Melissa's voice still echoed in the audience's ears as the roar of the crowd began to settle. "This exhibition has shown us the strength of our Duel King—and now, someone who could stand on equal ground against him!"

As Jack and Yuya exited the arena, the noise of the stadium dimmed, replaced by the lingering awe of the spectators.

Yugo stretched his arms with a groan. "Man... I wish I could battle too."

"Me too," Risu agreed with a wistful smile. "That duel was incredible."

Just then, two men in white suits stepped into their path. Their voices were calm, formal, and unyielding. "Please come with us."

Ryu narrowed his eyes. "Who are you?"

"They're members of the Council," Yuni answered immediately, his tone serious. "They've been sent by the Executive Council to guide us to our quarters."

"And don't worry," Katrina added, brushing her hair back. "The Security Bureau won't interfere with them."

"From here on, we'll show you the way," one of the suited men affirmed.

The group followed, and soon found themselves within the pristine halls of an opulent hotel. The air was crisp, the décor gleaming with polished stone and glass. Yet before they could admire it further, a holographic shimmer filled the room—five figures in white appeared before them.

Vivian yelped, startled. "What—what is that?!"

White Taki closed his eyes and bowed his head slightly. "My apologies. We did not intend to alarm you."

Risu frowned, pointing. "But what are you five doing here? And... you're transparent!"

"This is only a hologram," White Taki explained calmly. "In truth, we are not present. But as you can see, we can still observe and speak with you directly."

Gael spoke next, his voice flat, almost mechanical. "The Friendship Cup's participants..."

Gray continued seamlessly. "...are our guests. And at the same time..."

Azul followed, his eyes gleaming faintly. "...they are under our surveillance."

Bordeaux concluded with a slight smirk. "...isn't that correct, Chairman?"

White Taki inclined his head. "Yes. This penthouse is situated atop the Executive Council building. It is equipped with facilities equal to any first-class hotel. Do you find it comfortable?"

Yuni gave the surroundings another glance—the spacious rooms, the polished floors, the luxurious finishings. He gave a faint nod. "Well... judging by the interior, I'd say it's definitely luxurious."

Yuzu, however, stepped forward quickly. "But what about Yuya? Gongenzaka? And everyone else?"

The Council's voices overlapped in a rhythm, speaking one after another:

"You need not worry," Gael said.
"Everyone is here," Gray added.
"In this same building..." Azul followed.
"Though they are in separate rooms," Bordeaux finished.

Ryu blinked. "Everyone's here too?"

"Yes," Gael confirmed. "All thirty-two participants will reside in this penthouse during the tournament."

Gray's voice sharpened. "But you may only stay so long as you keep winning."

"If you lose," Azul said coldly, "you must leave immediately."

"And you will not be staying here any longer, correct, Chairman?" Bordeaux asked smoothly.

White Taki folded his hands. "That is correct. Only losers of the Friendship Cup are removed from this building. However, there is one exception—the Signers. Those who bear the red marks upon their hands may leave freely, as their duty to protect the Synchro Dimension takes precedence over all else."