In the waiting area, the short Syrus Truesdale was fastening his Duel Disk's wrist strap with his head down, his whole body huddled in the shadows.
"What's wrong with Syrus? Is the pressure of facing expulsion making him nervous? If that's the case, given how strict the older Truesdale usually is, I'm afraid..."
Yūki shook his head and did not explain any further.
Possession by the remnants of the dark sphere in the underground cavern beneath the Abandoned Dormitory, his mind eroded by negative emotions... Bringing that up now would not only sound like a charlatan's nonsense, but would also be extremely troublesome to explain.
Syrus Truesdale's inner demon was the padlock Zane Truesdale had given him back then. The one who tied the knot had to untie it.
"Some things can't be explained in a few words. Anyway, the sooner I see him, the safer it'll be."
Yūki withdrew his gaze and looked at Asuka.
Seeing the rare seriousness on Yūki's face, Asuka nodded earnestly despite all her questions.
"All right. Once this duel ends, I'll take you to him."
"Thanks."
As the two spoke, the announcer's booming voice rang out over the central speakers.
"The first punishment duel has officially ended! The winners: Yūki and Alexis Rhodes! In accordance with the rules, both contestants' demotions are revoked!"
"Next, we move on to the second punishment duel! Duelists on both sides, please take the stage immediately!"
Another uproar erupted from the stands.
Jaden Yuki tugged at the collar of his red uniform, flashed his trademark sunny grin, and threw an arm around Syrus Truesdale beside him.
"Let's go, Syrus! Yūki and Asuka already gave us an awesome example. It's our turn to get out there and raise some hell!"
Syrus Truesdale did not shrink back and cry, "Easy, big