Yugioh: The Hope of Six

Chapter 40: Kaiser Arc - Part 12

"Way to go Ryo!" Judai cheered.

"That was really awesome!" Johan added, sounding just as impressed.

"It certainly was." Edo said.

"Incredible." Serena said in total awe, having seen Ryo's dueling skills for the first time.

"Wow." Sho admitted. Now that he finally saw him in action, he could say this alternate Ryo was every bit as strong as his brother used to be. He was actually very happy to witness it. 'Ryo... thank you. You've given me a push in the right direction. I'm not there yet, but it's a start.'

"Alright!" Grace cheered.

"That's my man." Gloria said, smiling.

"Most impressive." Principal Samejima said. It reminded him so much of the times he witnessed the Duels of the Ryo he knew.

Makoto lay there, defeated by Ryo's most impressive OTK. He stared up at the vastness of empty space, awaiting his demise. "It happened again. Once more, I got my ass handed to me by a Cyber-Style Duelist. Why?" He then sounded angry with himself. "Why the hell can't I win against you Cyber-Style bastards? Having a chance to gain the power to fulfill my task getting my revenge was why I accepted Amon's invitation to join his so called "team" to begin with. But even with the Legendary Planet I was given, I still failed my mission. Why is my Jinzo-Style not strong enough? Am I... just not worthy to avenge my dojo? Am I... just weak?"

"No. You are not weak, Makoto." Ryo said as he stood above him. "And Your Jinzo-Style isn't weak either."

"Then why couldn't I beat you?" Makoto asked, refusing to look at the man that defeated him.

"I fought for my little brother. You fought for revenge. The answer should be clear from that." Makoto scoffed at him.

"I might as well face it: I'm a failure. The Jinzo-Style is finished. There's nothing left for me."

"None of that is true!" Sho shouted at him outside the arena. "There's no reason for you or your dojo's Dueling Style to call it quits!"

"Meaning what?" Makoto asked.

"Join my Pro League!" Sho answered. Makoto was surprised enough that he actually sat up. He stared at Sho with utter confusion and disbelief.

"Me? Join your Cyber Pro League? Why would you want me to do that?" Sho smiled.

"I don't want you to have to feel alone. My Pro League welcomes all Duelists that specialize "Machine" Decks! That would include Jinzo too! You can show the world just how formidable Jinzo-Style Dueling really is! I'm sure it would inspire others to follow your example! Perhaps one day, your dojo could be restored!"

"You... think so?" Makoto asked him, now sounding hopeful. Sho nodded eagerly.

"Absolutely! Just give it a chance!"

Makoto actually started to consider the idea. Maybe he could revitalize his Jinzo-Style through the Cyber Pro League. But there was one thing Sho clearly overlooked. And that one thing chose now to take the defeated Duelist's life.

Before Makoto could say another word, The Unbreakable Earth (glowing white now) returned and held him in a tight hold.

"Makoto!" Sho shouted in dismay.

As much as he struggled, the Jinzo Duelist was unable to get free. Then, right on cue, the tentacles reappeared to claim another victim. But like before, an energy shield surrounded Makoto, blocking the tentacles.

"Our mystery helper is doing his fine work once again." Dr. Zweinstein said to Misawa, who nodded in agreement.

"Indeed. Let us hope it works like before." Misawa replied.