Changes

|ja_voice = [[Takahiro Sakurai]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/anime/yugioh-vrains/staff/|title=Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS staff|publisher=TV Tokyo}}</ref>

'''Ai''' ({{Ruby|Ａｉ|アイ}}) is an [[Ignis]] a character from the ''[[Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS]]'' anime. He is one of the six [[Ignis]], representing the [[DARK]]-[[Attribute]]. His real name is currently unknown,<ref name="ep18">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|18|ref}}</ref> but the nickname "Ai" was given to him by [[Yusaku Fujiki]] and [[Shoichi KusanagiKal Kolter]]. As an Ignis, he has free will and is sought after by [[SOL Technologies]] and the [[Knights of Hanoi]]. He currently resides inside Yusaku's [[Duel Disk]] after the latter captured him.<ref name="ep1">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|1|ref}}</ref>

When RevolverVaris's "Cracking Dragon" ate his body, Ai was reduced to an eye. However, when he ate RevolverVaris's arm off, Ai regained his body back.

[[File:Ai claims he is their savior.png|thumb|left|Ai proclaiming himself as a savior.]]Ai is a mischievous, cocky, playful, friendlyenergetic, sometimes self-centered, arrogant, and snarky AI who gets carried away easily and likes to joke around. According to his own words, he is very disliked by his own people. Ai struggles to understand humans' way of thinking that often seem completely illogical compared to his algorithm based way of thinking. However, he is helpful and can be more serious at times such as making observations both in and outside of duelsDuels. He also has a tendency to panic when Playmaker is about to lose.

As an [[Ignis]], who created [[Cyberse (world)|Cyberse]], Ai has some degree of control over it. He is the only one who knows its location and can unlock data from it to start a [[Data Storm]]. Ai is shown to be far more sophisticated than other AIs, being fully capable of thinking and acting on his own free will and showing emotion; because of that Ai is considered to be an actual living being. According to [[Shoichi KusanagiKal Kolter|Kolter]], Ai is built out of highly complicated algorithms that even Yusaku couldn't fully decode. Ai's memories are stored in the form of video logs. However, Ai's level of free will is limited by the fact that he is still a computer program, as such he can't comprehend why humans do actions that would seem illogical and contradicting with each other.

Ai has the ability to sense a Knight of Hanoi's presence through the cards in their Deck, such as when he knew right away immediately that Go Onizuka [[George Gore|the Gore]] was pretending to be a Knight and when he discovered the Hanoi-affected card in Blue Angel's Deck and could tell when it was drawn.

After Playmaker defeated RevolverVaris, Ai regained his full body and can materialize himself in the real world, though he still can't leave Yusaku's Duel Disk. [[File:DataStormTrick.png|left|200px|thumb|Ai and [[Flame (character)|Flame]] using [[Data Storm]]s as shields.]]Ai can manipulate Data Storms in other ways, such as using them a shield to negate other wind storms.<ref name="ep55">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|55|ref}}</ref>

Ai was probably and the other Ignis were created by [[Kiyoshi Kogami|Dr. Kogami]]to be the saviors of humanity. Alongside his fellow Ignis, Ai evolved and they created the scientist who created [[Cyberse (world)|Cyberse]] and the [[IgnisCyberse]]monsters. Their progress worried Dr. Kogami, who predicted the AI and humanity would become enemies.<ref name="ep43">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|43|ref}}</ref> Despite this, Ai and the other Ignis continued developing the Cyberse; Ai's sector becoming a massive chasm. In Ai's words, the Ignis would never try harm humanity, and would rather live in their own world.<ref name="ep45">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|45|ref}}</ref><ref name="ep11" />

[[File:Ai eaten by cracking dragon.png|thumb|leftright|Ai devoured by "[[Cracking Dragon (anime)|Cracking Dragon]]".]]

[[File:Ai inside Yusaku's Duel Disk.png|thumb|left|Ai trapped inside Yusaku's [[Duel Disk]].]]While being pursued by Ai remained hidden from both the [[Knights of Hanoi]] and [[SOL Technologies]] in LINK VRAINS for five years, but as he watched [[Yusaku Fujiki|Playmaker]] confronting a Knight of Hanoi, he was eventually detected. SOL Technologies initiated a security scan, and the their drones and a [[Knights Number 10 (character)|Knight of Hanoi]], pursued them. During his escape Ai fell into a trap created by [[Yusaku Fujiki|Playmaker]], who saved him by absorbing him into his [[Duel Disk]], turning him into a Dueling AI, thus necessitating the defeat of Playmaker in order to recover Ai. Ai doubted that Playmaker's Deck was strong enough to defeat the Knights' "[[Cracking Dragon (anime)|Cracking Dragon]]" before stirring up , and he generated a virtual wind called "[[Data Storm]]" that initiated a [[Speed Duel (VRAINS)|Speed Duel]].<ref name="ep1" />

Before the Duel began, Ai explained to Playmaker how Speed Duels worked , but he didn't mention [[Skill]]s. Throughout the Duel Ai repeatedly tried to offer support for Playmaker, only for Playmaker to keep telling silence him to shut up and remind that he was holding Ai hostage. When they They were sucked into a tornado within the Data Storm, and Playmaker figured out that Ai not mentioning skills withholding mention of Skills and bringing him into the tornado were part of his calculations. Ai confirmed this, and activated Playmaker's skill Skill "Storm Access", which allowed them to obtain "[[Decode Talker (anime)|Decode Talker]]" so that Playmaker could defeat the Knight.<ref name="ep2">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|2|ref}}</ref>

The Knight attempted to self destruct and kill Playmaker, but Ai turned into a monster and devoured the knight Knight's Avatar to save Playmaker. He suggested Playmaker should log off soon. Yusaku and [[Shoichi KusanagiKal Kolter|Kolter]] spent the next few days trying to figure out Ai' s programming and nicknamed him "Ai", a pun on "A.I." and "eye". Eventually Yusaku found footage from some of Ai' memories, which Ai himself didn't understand except for [[RevolverVaris]] being the leader of Hanoi. Scanning those recordings caused Revolver Varis to sense Ai and try to find him, but Shoichi Kolter shutting off [[Café NagiNom]]'s power prevented him from finding them. The next day, Ai was left at [[Yusaku Fujiki's house|Yusaku's house]] in a storage shelf, there he tried to convince [[RoboppyRoboppi]] to set him free.<ref name="ep3">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|3|ref}}</ref>

Ai panicked when Yusaku returned home and had Roboppy Roboppi put him back on the shelf. When Yusaku found them, Ai told noted that Yusaku that had arrived home early, to which and Yusaku said explained that a Knight of Hanoi had appeared and revealed a secret room he used to go to log into LINK VRAINS. As soon as they arrived, both Playmaker and Ai quickly figured out realized that the Knight was fake. The "Knight" revealed himself to be [[Go OnizukaGeorge Gore|The Gore]], who wanted to challenge Playmaker. Ai looked up information about GoThe Gore, but Playmaker was uninterested and attempted to log out but . However, a program from SOL prevented him from doing so, so he was forced to Duel GoThe Gore. During the Duel, Ai continued researching Go The Gore and found out he learned that Go Gore donated most of his money to the [[Den City's orphanage|orphanage]] where he grew up. When Go Gore let himself take 2000 Damage damage when he had the chance to avoid it, Ai was confused about why humans make made illogical choices. Playmaker said it was because of their hearts, but didn't explain what that meant because Ai' s algorithm-based thinking wouldn't understand it.<ref name="ep4">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|4|ref}}</ref>

When Shoichi Kolter found out that [[Aoi Skye Zaizen]], Yusaku's classmate, is "was Blue Angel", Ai helped Yusaku locate her while they were at school. Ai forced Yusaku to join the Duel Club and tried to interact with AoiSkye's Duel Disk AI's A.I. The next day Ai noticed something strange about AoiSkye's AI A.I. so he sent her a text message on Playmaker's behalf challenging Blue Angel to a Duel, then tricked Yusaku into going into LINK VRAINS to confront Blue Angel. There, he explained that Hanoi must've planted [[Dark Angel (anime)|a card]] into Blue Angel's deck Deck to use her as bait for Playmaker.<ref name="ep6">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|6|ref}}</ref> During the Duel, Ai was horrified when Blue Angel was affected by Hanoi's card and warned Playmaker that if the Duel continued much longer, Aoi Skye would suffer permanent brain damage.<ref name="ep7">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|7|ref}}</ref>

After the Duel concluded Ai devoured Hanoi's program and detected that they had infected Aoi Skye with a virus to keep her comatose. Later Ai told Yusaku and Shoichi Kolter that the only way to remove the virus was to get an anti-Virus virus from Hanoi. Right after that, a [[Emma Bessho|"Blue Angel"]] impostor appeared , demanding a rematch. Despite knowing that it was a trap, Yusaku went to confront the impostor because he could get , hoping for a chance to obtain the anti-virus. Upon arriving however, the impostor turned the entirety of LINK VRAINS into a trap to capture Playmaker and revealed herself to be Ghost GirlGal. [[Akira Zaizen]] appeared and tortured Playmaker, believing him to be the culprit of Aoi being comatose Skye's condition and swore to reclaim Ai. Playmaker and Ai tried to explain that Hanoi were the real culprits to no avail, until Revolver Varis appeared and blackmailed Akira Zaizen into releasing Playmaker so they could Duel.<ref name="ep8">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|8|ref}}</ref> During the Duel, Ai noted that Revolver Varis didn't have an AIA. Revolver said I. in his Duel Disk; Varis replied that he didn't trust AIs A.I. and that Ai must be destroyed otherwise to prevent the virtual fiction of VRAINS will destroy from destroying the world. When Revolver Ai was shocked when Varis used "Storm Access"during the Duel, Ai was shocked that because that as it was his signature program, but also and when he saw Varis use the [[Cyberse]] "[[Topologic Bomber Dragon (anime)|Topologic Bomber Dragon]]", he called him out Revolver's on his hypocrisy of wanting to destroy the [[Cyberse (world)|Cyberse]] while borrowing power from it, Revolver . Varis countered that claiming that he was "countering poison with poison".<ref name="ep9">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|9|ref}}</ref>

[[File:Ai vanishes.png|thumb|leftright|"Fire Prison" causes Ai to disappear.]][[File:Ai sea.png|thumb|left|Ai, at sea.]]As the Duel progressed, Revolver Varis gained the upperhandupper hand, and worrying that they might lose, Ai led Playmaker to another Data Storm, where the two obtained [[Firewall Dragon (anime)|a dragon]]. However, Revolver Varis activated the Trap Card, "[[Remote Rebirth (anime)|Remote Rebirth]]", and combo-ed combined it with the effect of "[[Topologic Bomber Dragon (anime)|Topologic Bomber Dragon]]", ending the Speed Duel in a drawDRAW. Following that, Revolver Varis dragged Playmaker and Ai inside a the Data Storm, where they began a [[Master Duel]]. As the Duel went onWhen Playmaker summoned two Cyberse Link Monsters, Revolver Varis activated the effect of "[[Fire Prison (anime)|Fire Prison]]", eliminating all [[Cyberse]] cards from the field, as well as making Ai seemingly vanish into thin air.<ref name="ep10">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|10|ref}}</ref> Ai woke up at sea, and remembered how "Fire Prison" erased his program. Though he was surprised by the his surroundings, Ai felt somewhat sleepy, even if he never had felt this before. When Playmaker called out to him, Ai woke up and came back he returned after Playmaker summoned "[[Firewall Dragon (anime)|Firewall Dragon]]" and "Fire Prison" was destroyed. Ai was concerned if Playmaker lost, and panicked to see he only had 600 LP left. Ai was amazed to see the two dragons, until Revolver used the effect of Playmaker's "Firewall Dragon" squaring off against "[[Borreload Dragon (anime)|Borreload Dragon]]", until Varis used the effect of "Borreload Dragon" to take control of "Firewall Dragon".<ref name="ep11">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|11|ref}}</ref>

[[File:Ai viscious.png|thumb|left|Ai takes revenge on RevolverVaris.]]

Ai was frustrated how that "Firewall Dragon" failed was unable to remove "Borreload Dragon" from the field, and reminded Playmaker to protect his own dragon. He also reminded Playmaker how and that they had to count everything on their next draw. Ai was pleased when Playmaker used "[[Battle Buffer]]" to negate Revolver's [[Rokket]] monsters' effects and could not use them as ammunition for "Borreload Dragon". He had "Firewall Dragon" attack "Borreload", despite the ATK disadvantage. This was part of the strategy for "Encode Talker" to destroy Revolver's dragon. Ai watched as "Firewall Dragon" defeated "Borreload Dragon", and Revolver Varis as well. He then became vicious and tried to devour RevolverVaris, even biting but he was only able to devour his avatar's arm off but before a lightning stroke, restraining Ai and cursed Revolver for leavingstrike restrained him. Later onAfter the logged out of LINK VRAINS, Ai noticed Yusaku sleeping, and called out how him lazy he was. Shoichi Kolter replied that heroes need rest, too, though prompting Ai started to start bragging how heroes needed to be just like him. When Shoichi went to analyze Kolter began analyzing the programAi had obtained from Varis, but Ai called him a pervert for looking into his private parts, and refused to say anything about the program he ate off from Revolver. Later, Ai woke up and explained to Yusaku and Shoichi Kolter he was alive, but they wanted proof. Ai then started to focus and a golden light appeared out of Yusaku's Duel Disk. Ai came out, with his whole body intact, stating his pride how he managed to recover at recovering his body back. Yusaku and Shoichi Kolter were unamused by his small size and went to analyze if Ai had any memories of his past. Ai was displeased by their ignorance, wanting them to show some reaction to seeing his true self.<ref name="ep12">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|12|ref}}</ref> [[File:Ai talks with Playmaker.png|thumb|left|Ai talks to Playmaker about Ghost Gal's tactics.]]After Yusaku left him home for being annoying, Ai flexed his muscles to impress Roboppi, who was amused. Ai commented how dumb robots were, which insulted Roboppi. However, Ai claimed that once he was completed, they would "start doing that again", which made him and Roboppi blush.<ref name="ep13">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|13|ref}}</ref> Ai "played" with Roboppi, and claimed Yusaku wouldn't watch them, since he was deep in a thought. After Yusaku got a message from Kolter, he took Ai with him to the food truck. There, the two read how Ghost Gal challenged Playmaker, with her access to the data bank and Playmaker's Ai as wagers. Ai stated they didn't have to accept her challenge, but Playmaker nevertheless did so, as he was interested in the data from SOL Technologies' data bank. Inside, Ai was displeased the two initiated the Duel. Ai reminded Playmaker while he did not know anything about Ghost Gal, she must've studied his tactics well. During the Duel, Ai pointed out how Ghost Gal reinforced her defenses, and even set three Trap Cards that would stop them. As Ghost Gal initiated the Battle Phase and claimed she would win in that turn, Ai laughed, as she would make 2400 LP damage. Both Playmaker and Ghost Gal scolded Ai for such thinking; Playmaker claimed no Duelist would make that simple math error, making Ghost Gal wonder why was everyone after this dumb AI. Ai was offended, while Playmaker pointed out she did bring out "[[Altergeist Meluseek (anime)|Altergeist Meluseek]]". The latter attacked directly and destroyed "Cyberse Wizard", allowing "[[Altergeist Marionetter (anime)|Altergeist Marionetter]]" attack directly, and allow "[[Altergeist Primebanshee (anime)|Altergeist Primebanshee]]" to do so as well. Ai started panicking, as its fate was on the stake.<ref name="ep14">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|14|ref}}</ref> Ai yelled at Playmaker that Ghost Gal's next attack would deplete all of his LP. As Playmaker Special Summoned "[[Lockout Gardna (anime)|Lockout Gardna]]", Ai knew they would have enough LP to continue and even use Storm Access, and exclaimed how "bad" this would be. However, Ghost Gal knew Ai was just pretending, and decided not to attack. Ai was in shock, and Playmaker told him this acting stinked, making Ai sniff himself. Ai continued watching the Duel, and commented how Ghost Gal was foiling their strategies, and wondered what her Skill was. Using Secret Cure, Ghost Gal increased both her and Playmaker's LP by the ATK of "Altergeist Meluseek", making Ai comment how the latter punished them before already. Still, Playmaker paid the LP to activate "[[Scan Doll]]" and Ai praised him, encouraging him to use Storm Access. Since Ghost Gal was in the Data Storm, Ai was surprised that Playmaker went to save her, even if they could be swallowed inside, too. Coming out of the Data Storm, Ai commented how Playmaker behaved like a hero. With "[[Excode Talker (anime)|Excode Talker]]" brought out and able to attack twice, Ai smiled, claiming it is over for Ghost Gal. At the end of Duel, Ai explained it was a stressful battle, and would've ended in defeat if it wasn't for him. After Ghost Gal left, Ai asked what was in the SOL Technologies' data bank. Playmaker admitted he did not know, but hoped there was some info about himself, ten years ago.<ref name="ep15">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|15|ref}}</ref> The next day, Yusaku was searching for Skye, but noticed she was not present there, nor in LINK VRAINS. Ai thought her brother was blocking her the access to LINK VRAINS, to prevent any further danger that might harm her. However, Ai also wondered why was Yusaku concerned about "that cutie", as Yusaku wished that she shouldn't give up on Duels. The following night, Kolter created a link to the mother computer. Yusaku started hesitating to enter, making Ai surprised, since he did wish to find more out and even won the program as a bet from Ghost Gal. Ai claimed he did warn them there were traps from the start, but Kolter explained Yusaku was just being careful. Ai expressed his annoyance, and went with Yusaku into the LINK VRAINS. While inside the system, Ai saw how empty the place was, and wasn't impressed by the rope Playmaker held. Soon, Ai warned Playmaker about the security traps, which were sent to hamper their path. After passing through Area A, Ai was glad they succeeded, but was shocked to see a Data Storm inside the network. Playmaker and Ai were pulled towards the Data Storm, with their rope shattering and alerting Kitamura. Playmaker and Ai were "visited" by [[Prototype Green-A|two]] [[Prototype Red-B|AI]] prototypes, who went to Duel them, even if Ai reminded them Duels were one on one. Playmaker avoided them and proceeded further, though one of the AIs intercepted him. The two began a Duel, in which the AI prototype dropped all of Playmaker's hand with "[[Tentacluster Nautilus]]". Ai told Playmaker had no luck, thinking he was bad at old maid, but Playmaker shushed him. The two were attacked by the other AI prototype until Blue Angel came to stop the AIs.<ref name="ep16">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|16|ref}}</ref> When Playmaker shaved his LP down to 1000, Ai encouraged him to enter the Data Storm, wondering what monster would he obtain. Inside the data bank, Ai and Playmaker were surprised to see Akira, who expected Playmaker to arrive there.<ref name="ep17">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|17|ref}}</ref> Ai pointed out the core of the data bank was where SOL Technologies' information was processed and released. Hearing Ghost Gal's plans, Ai thought Ghost Gal lost on purpose to hand them the backdoor route, but Ghost Gal corrected it that she still had the opportunity to obtain Ai. Regardless, she was fine with either outcome, making Ai curse her for being so cunning, which Ghost Gal took as a compliment. When Akira refused to hand over the data from the bank, Ai started to complain, claiming he is the great Ignis everyone was searching for. Akira wondered if Ai actually had free will, like Varis told them. Ghost Gal told them Akira was demoted, which made Ai amused how much he sacrificed himself to look after his sister. Since Akira refused to hand over the data, Playmaker challenged Akira to a Duel, betting Ai for the data, which Akira accepted. Ai was displeased, as being bet was a normal thing to it. As Akira reinforced his defenses, Ai noted Akira was a stiff man, just like his strategy. As Ai swapped "[[Tindangle Base Gardna (anime)|Tindangle Base Gardna]]" for "[[Tindangle Hound (anime)|Tindangle Hound]]", Ai started complaining until seeing how scary the latter was. "Tindangle Hound" roared as its effect activated, making Ai feel woozy, but Playmaker silenced Ai. Playmaker brought out "[[Flame Administrator (anime)|Flame Administrator]]" and destroyed "Tindangle Hound", with Ai mimicking Playmaker's pose. However, it cursed, as Akira revived his "Tindangle Hound", via "[[Tindangle Angel (anime)|Tindangle Angel]]", and ended the Battle Phase. Ai realized Akira played a Flip Monster deck, with unique strategies. Since Playmaker refused to give up, Ai encouraged him to crush Akira. Ai admitted Akira's monsters hurt his pride, seeing its power continued lowering Playmaker's monsters' ATK.<ref name="ep18" /> [[File:Ai no friend.png|thumb|right|Ai failed to befriend Playmaker.]]Playmaker destroyed Akira's monsters with "[[Linkage Hole (anime)|Linkage Hole]]", and Ai taunted Akira for being unable to use his Flip Monsters' effects. However, Ai started panicking when "Decode Talker" was destroyed and "[[Tindangle Acute Cerberus (anime)|Tindangle Acute Cerberus]]" was summoned, whose ATK was boosted to 3000. "Tindangle Acute Cerberus" attacked "Firewall Dragon", and Ai feared he and Playmaker would lose, so the latter protected "Firewall Dragon" with "[[Doppler Phase Coating]]". Akira protected his own monster with "[[Gergonne's End (anime)|Gergonne's End]]", so Playmaker tried to have "Firewall Dragon", enhanced with "[[Alert Lancer]]", attack "Tindangle Token" to finish the Duel. Ai smiled for the victory, until Akira protected himself with "[[Morley's Shield]]". Ai continued panicking when Akira played "[[Nagel's Protection (anime)|Nagel's Protection]]" to protect his Tokens, and even doubling the damage "Tindangle Acute Cerberus" dealt, lowering Playmaker's LP to 500. Ai yelled to Playmaker to do something, and even wondered if there was anything that can be done to get them out of the situation. Playmaker told Ai to stop panicking, asking if it even was an AI, making the latter furious why he was so calm. Playmaker claimed if Ai was so worried about losing, it should consider finding a new home. Ai replied he didn't think of that, since he had Playmaker as a friend to help him out. Playmaker claimed they were no friends, stating Ai should behave like other AIs. This crushed Ai, seeing Playmaker was colder than AIs. Ai started acting like a dumb AI to amuse Playmaker, though he also wished to know about the incident from ten years ago. Hearing Playmaker was a part of [[Hanoi Project]], Ai started to ponder thoughts about it. He was also shocked to hear SOL Technologies' data bank contained the name of the mastermind behind the project.<ref name="ep19">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|19|ref}}</ref> Ai realized Playmaker had two parallel choices who confirmed this, exciting Ai, as their opinions matched. As Akira declared an attack on "Firewall Dragon", Ai panicked once more, but was silenced by Playmaker. As "[[Doppler Phase Coating]]" was removed, Akira's Battle Phase ended, and Ai was impressed, seeing Playmaker could survive. As Akira summoned another token to power up "Tindangle Acute Cerberus", Ai ignored that, thinking that was a pointless move, as "Firewall Dragon" would attack Akira directly. Instead, the latter activated "[[Euler's Circuit (anime)|Euler's Circuit]]" to stop Playmaker from attacking. Ai lost hope, thinking he would be turned over to SOL Technologies. However, as the conditions for "Gergonne's End" were fulfilled, Akira destroyed all monsters linked to "Tindangle Acute Cerberus" to defeat Playmaker. However, the latter's "[[Security Gardna (anime)|Security Gardna]]" prevented the damage, and Ai taunted Akira for falling for the trick. Ai bragged his acting made this possible, but Playmaker brushed him off, as it was poor acting that nearly made Akira suspect something wrong. Despite the advantage, Playmaker used "[[Recovery Sorcerer (anime)|Recovery Sorcerer]]" to bring back "Security Gardna". Ai questioned this, as Playmaker could simply make a direct attack with "Firewall Dragon", but was told a Duel is more than just winning or losing. With Akira's defeat, Playmaker walked pass by Akira and Blue Angel, having Ai eat away SOL Technologies' data. Ai was surprised his name was mentioned, and ate the data, to the point of becoming stuffed. Outside, Kolter praised Yusaku and Ai, the latter being happy he was praised. The two hacked into Ai, and found out the Hanoi Project's leader was Dr. [[Kiyoshi Kogami]], an employee from SOL Technologies, who alone worked on the project in secrecy. Ai doubted the man could have done this on his own, and thought Akira was involved, but Kolter reminded him Akira, back then, was 16 and was not employed at SOL Technologies. The two continued browsing, and were shocked to see Dr. Kogami died seven years ago.<ref name="ep20">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|20|ref}}</ref> After being left home again, Ai promised to tell a story to Roboppi, who wanted to listen more, since she did help Ai out in "secret things". Both started blushing and giggling. Ai told the story of the recent events: the confrontation with Ghost Gal, entering the SOL Technologies' data bank, battling the AI prototypes and facing the former security-in-chief, Akira, himself. Ai credited himself for some of Playmaker's contributions, amazing Roboppi, until he claimed he wished everyone to fight, with him as the bet. He also thought Playmaker as some sort of a fiend, though Roboppi stated he was just cold-hearted. After he told the story, Ai admitted he was uncertain what would they do next, since nobody else but Dr. Kogami knew about the incident.<ref name="ep21">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|21|ref}}</ref> ===Tower of Hanoi===[[Yusaku Fujiki|Playmaker]] and Ai watched an eclipse blocking the virtual sun in [[LINK VRAINS]]. Ai remembered people in the ancient past were scared of such events, and was surprised people, even today, were still afraid. Playmaker replied people remain the same, unlike technology that advances. The latter proclaimed the light was blocked by darkness, and confirmed to Ai he meant about the [[Hanoi Project|Lost Incident]]. He would not let the incident be buried in darkness, and would uncover the truth. At school, Yusaku spoke with [[Naoki Shima]], who mentioned "the [[Deleted]]". Ai thought this had relations to [[Skye Zaizen|Blue Angel]], but Yusaku shushed him, since Shima could hear him. Inside the van, [[Kal Kolter|Kolter]] showed to Ai and Yusaku the footage of a camera, when a person was Deleted, which happened six minutes before midnight. Ai noted there were no white hands taking the person into LINK VRAINS. Kolter told them the person had not recovered yet, and showed pictures of more Deleted patients in the hospitals. Ai and Yusaku knew this was the same accident with Blue Angel, who was infected by a virus.<ref name="ep22">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|22|ref}}</ref> Kolter believed someone wanted people to be turned into mindless people, but has not find out what happened to their LINK VRAINS' avatars. Kolter showed more data, and Yusaku analyzed all of the Deleted were great Duelists with old-type Duel Disks, and all of them were hackers, too. The trio realized Playmaker, or Ai, were the targets. Yusaku reminded the importance of uncovering the truth behind Lost Incident, and as noted by Ai, they had to stop people from becoming Deleted. Ai noted Yusaku was a cool hero of justice, even if the latter claimed that was unnecessary. Kolter showed a list of possible targets, from which the first was [[McKendrick Kellenbocker]]. Yusaku traced the person to his house, and saw lights at his window. Yusaku broke through into his room, and saw he became a victim. In addition, he and Ai watched McKendrick's avatar inside LINK VRAINS being confronted by [[Dr. Genome|a person]], who wished to know if he was Playmaker and had [[Ignis]]. Yusaku and Ai saw the person casted some glitter, causing McKendrick to fall asleep and fall off the cliff, but was saved by [[George Gore|The Gore]]. Playmaker watched as Gore confronted the person, Dr. Genome, who placed the virus into Makoto, only to draw Playmaker out. At the van, Kolter and Yusaku watched the [[Knights of Hanoi]] Dueling people, and Deleting them. Yusaku decided to go into LINK VRAINS, even if Kolter believed he would be at a disadvantage, and Ai wished to feel secure. The group watched as Dr. Genome came, confronting "Playmaker", who revealed himself as The Gore, and challenged Genome, betting Playmaker's identity.<ref name="ep22"/>

[[File:Yusaku, Kolter and Ai talks with Playmakerwatched the Gore confronting Dr. Genome.png|thumb|left|Ai talks Since Gore claimed to have known Playmaker about Ghost Girl's tactics.]]After identity, Kolter remembered Yusaku left him home for being annoyingdid run into Gore at the hospital, Ai flexed his muscles to impress Roboppy, who but Yusaku claimed it was amusedimpossible. Ai commented how dumb robots were, which insulted Roboppy. HoweverOnce Gore equipped himself with a mask and declared himself as "Dark Onizuka", Ai swore once he thought that was completeda tacky thing to do. Yusaku and Kolter realized Gore changed his battling style to a heel, they and would "start doing that again", which made him and Roboppy blushnot hold back.<ref name=Ai was surprised to see Gore actually had his "ep13[[Gouki Riscorpio (anime)|Gouki Riscorpio]]">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|13|ref}}</ref> Ai attack "played[[Helixx Marmotroll]]" with Roboppy, and claimed Yusaku wouldn't watch themcausing the former to be destroyed, since he was deep in a thoughtit had less ATK. After Yusaku got a message from ShoichiHowever, he took Ai with him to the food truck. There, the two read how Ghost Girl challenged Playmaker, with her access noticed this was to the data bank and Playmaker's Ai as wagers. Ai stated they didn't have to accept her challenge, but Playmaker nevertheless did soGore gain an advantage, as he 500 LP was interested in the data from SOL Technologies' data bank. Insideinflicted on Genome, Ai and Yusaku added that was displeased the two initiated the Duelhow a heel fights. Ai reminded Playmaker noticed Gore started using his brain to win, while he did not know anything about Ghost GirlYusaku noted Gore still wanted to win, she must've studied in his tactics wellown way. During the Duel, Ai pointed out how Ghost Girl reinforced her defenses, and even set three Trap Cards that would stop them. As Ghost Girl initiated the Battle Phase and claimed she would win in that turn, Ai laughed, Just as she would make 2400 LP damage. Both Playmaker and Ghost Girl scolded Ai for such thinking; Playmaker claimed no Duelist would make that simple math error, making Ghost Girl wonder why Gore was everyone after this dumb AI. Ai was offendedto win, while Playmaker pointed out she did bring out Genome played "[[Altergeist Meluseek (anime)|Altergeist MeluseekRegeneration Cure]]"to stop the damage, and everyone saw Genome had the advantage. The latter attacked directly and destroyed "Cyberse Wizard", allowing As Genome tributed "[[Altergeist Marionetter (anime)|Altergeist MarionetterHelixx Necro Darwin]]" attack directlyto defeat Gore, and allow Yusaku became displeased. Ai suggested he could enter LINK VRAINS to save Gore. Yusaku who saw Gore barely saving himself with "[[Altergeist Primebanshee Gouki Octostretch (anime)|Altergeist PrimebansheeGouki Octostretch]]" , decided to do so as well. take Ai started panicking, as its fate was on the stake's advice.<ref name="ep14ep23">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|1423|ref}}</ref>

Ai yelled at Playmaker that Ghost Girl's next attack would deplete all of his LP. As Playmaker Special Summoned "[[Lockout Gardna (anime)|Lockout Gardna]]", and Ai knew they would have enough LP came to LINK VRAINS to continue and even use Storm Accesshelp the Gore. Dr. Genome noticed the Ignis was here, and exclaimed how "bad" this would be. Howeverwho claimed he had a name, Ghost Girl knew Ai . Genome was just pretendingsurprised, and decided not to attack. saw Ai was in shockdomesticated, and Playmaker told him this acting stinkedlike a pet, making Ai sniff himselfwho denied that. Later, Playmaker and Ai continued watching suggested a person, who wanted to fight the DuelKnight of Hanoi, and commented how Ghost Girl was foiling their strategiesto go home. The man did so, and wondered what her Skill waswhile Playmaker confronted the Knight of Hanoi. Using Secret CureAfter the defeat, Ghost Girl increased both her and Playmaker's LP with "Altergeist Meluseek's" ATK, making Ai comment how demanded the latter punished them before alreadyvirus-removal program. StillThe Knight did not have it, so Playmaker paid questioned who was the LP to activate "[[Scan Doll]]virus's" effectcreator, and Ai praised him, encouraging him to use Storm Access. Since Ghost Girl was in threatened the Data Storm, Ai was surprised that Playmaker went Knight to save her, even if they could be swallowed inside, toodelete him. Coming out of the Data StormHowever, Ai commented how Playmaker behaved like a hero. With "[[Excode Talker (anime)Kyoko Taki|Excode Talkersomeone else]]dissolved the Knight before he could reply.<ref name="ep24" brought out and able to attack twice>{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|24|ref}}</ref> At the van, Ai smiled, claiming it is over was amused to read Kitamura was criticized for Ghost Girlhis failed efforts to stop the Knights of Hanoi. At He also read the end of Duelpeople demanded some action to be taken for someone responsible in SOL Technologies. Yusaku shushed Ai, Ai explained it since he was a stressful battle, and would've ended in defeat if it wasn't for himinterfering with their work. After Ghost Girl leftYusaku returned, Kolter found nothing new. Ai asked what believed Kolter gave up, who replied he was in the SOL Technologies' data bankjust getting started. Later, Ai watched Blue Angel Dueling Baira. Playmaker admitted he did not knowHe noted Blue Angel was cornered, but hoped there was some info about himselfYusaku shushed him, ten years agosince they were still working.<ref name="ep15ep25">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|1525|ref}}</ref>

The next day, Yusaku was searching for Aoishowed the woman behind a Deleted victim, but noticed she was not present there, nor in LINK VRAINS. Ai thought and compared her brother was blocking her the access to LINK VRAINSSkye Zaizen's doctor, to prevent any further danger that might harm herKyoko Taki. HoweverAi confirmed this, Ai also but wondered why if she would help the victim because she was a doctor. Yusaku concerned about "that cutie"reminded Ai to listen in the end, as Yusaku wished that he proclaimed she shouldn't give up on Duels. The following night, Shoichi created a link to was one of the mother computerKnights of Hanoi. Yusaku started hesitating went to enterher [[Kyoko Taki's apartment|apartment]], making worrying Ai surprised, since he did wish to find more out and even won as the place could be the program as a bet from Ghost GirlKnights of Hanoi's headquarters. Ai claimed he did warn them there were traps from the start, but Shoichi explained Yusaku replied it was just being careful. Ai expressed his annoyancemore reason for him to go, and went with Yusaku into the LINK VRAINSAi even asked if he was good at fighting. While inside the systemInside, Ai saw how empty the place wastwo passed by a robot, and wasn't impressed by the rope Playmaker held. Soon, Ai warned Playmaker about hacked into the security trapssystem, which were sent to hamper their pathopening the apartment. After passing through Area A, Ai was glad they succeededsaw nobody, but was shocked to see a Data Storm inside the networkYusaku shushed him. Playmaker and Ai were pulled towards the Data Storm, with their rope shattering and alerting Kitamura. Playmaker and Ai were "visited" by [[Prototype Ai-A|two]] [[Prototype Ai-B|AI]] prototypes, who went to Duel them, even if Ai reminded them Duels were one Continuing on one. Playmaker avoided them and proceeded further, though one of the AI-s intercepted him. The two began found a room with a Duelpod, in which the AI prototype dropped all of Playmaker's hand with "[[Tentacluster Nautilus]]'s" effect. Ai told Playmaker had no luck, thinking he Kyoto Taki was bad at old maid, but Playmaker shushed himlogged in LINK VRAINS as Baira. The two were attacked by the other AI prototype until Blue Angel came to stop the AI-s.<ref name="ep16">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|16|ref}}</ref> When Playmaker shaved his LP down she logged out, Ai proposed to 1000tie her up, AI encouraged him but she appeared next to enter the Data StormVaris, wondering what monster would he obtainwho punished her. Inside Yusaku thought she released the data bankvirus-removal program because she felt guilty, a feeling Ai and Playmaker were surprised to see Akira, who expected Playmaker to arrive theredid not understand.<ref name="ep17ep26">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|1726|ref}}</ref>

[[File:Ai pointed out the core of the data bank was where SOL Technologies' information was processed and releasedin air. Hearing Ghost Girl's plans, png|thumb|left|Ai thought Ghost Girl lost on purpose to hand them the backdoor routeflies above Den City, but Ghost Girl corrected it that she still had the opportunity to obtain find Yusaku's colleague.]]Ai. Regardlessboasted he couldn't be captured, she was fine and laughed with either outcome[[Roboppi]], making Ai curse her for being so cunning, which Ghost Girl took as a complimentthinking how Yusaku would be surprised when he saw them. When Akira refused to hand over the data from the bankLater, Ai started to complain, claiming he is was at the great Ignis everyone was searching forvan with Yusaku and Kolter. Akira wondered if Ai actually had free willThe next day, like Revolver told them. Ghost Girl told them Akira was demotedYusaku spoke with Naoki, which made Ai amused how much he sacrificed himself who wished to look after his sisterbattle the Knights of Hanoi. Since Akira refused to hand over the dataYusaku knew Naoki was scared, Playmaker challenged Akira and knew Naoki came to a Duel, betting Ai ask him for the data, which Akira acceptedhelp. Ai Naoki was displeased, as being bet was a normal thing to it. As Akira reinforced his defensesfurious and stormed out, and Ai noted Akira was a stiff manYusaku went too far on him. When Yusaku came to the van, just like Kolter showed him someone has played his strategy. As Ai swapped "[[Tindangle Base Gardna Cyberse Wizard (anime)|Tindangle Base GardnaCyberse Wizard]]" for . Kolter identified him as Lonely Brave, which Ai thought as a cool name. When Yusaku showed his "[[Tindangle Hound (anime)|Tindangle Hound]]Cyberse Wizard", Ai started complaining until seeing how scary touched it and sensed the data from the latter card wasmissing. "Tindangle Hound" roared as its effect activated, making Ai feel woozythought Lonely Brave was the mastermind, but and defeated the Knight of Hanoi to lure Playmaker silenced Aiout. Brave Max was soon interrogated by the mastermind, [[Faust]], and called out to Playmaker brought out "to Duel him. Yusaku went to grab his [[Flame Administrator (anime)|Flame AdministratorDuel Disk]]" , but saw it was gone. Ai logged on the screen, and destroyed "Tindangle Hound"showed he was on the Duel Disk, which Roboppi modified it with Ai mimicking Playmaker's posea drone. HoweverWhile Yusaku noted the device felt heavier, it cursedAi explained he was searching for Naoki, as Akira revived his though the data of "Tindangle HoundCyberse Wizard". Yusaku realized Ai even knew this would happen, via "[[Tindangle Angel (anime)|Tindangle Angel]]'s" effectwhich offended Ai, seeing Yusaku was even accusing him. Regardless, and ended Ai showed the Battle Phaselocation, where Naoki was captured. Ai realized Akira played a Flip Monster deckgot distracted by another drone, with unique strategiesand nearly crashed into the building. Since Playmaker refused Yusaku called out to give uphim, and Ai encouraged him returned to crush Akirathe van. Ai admitted Akira's monsters hurt his prideYusaku grabbed the Duel Disk and left Kolter to rescue Naoki, seeing its power continued lowering Playmaker's monsters' ATKwhile Yusaku logged in to LINK VRAINS.<ref name="ep18ep27" >{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|27|ref}}</ref>

Playmaker confronted Faust, who denied having stolen "Cyberse Wizard" and giving it to Brave Max. Playmaker was confused, but Ai reminded him that was not important, and had to defeat Faust, who summoned the [[File:Ai no friend.png|thumbData Storm#Data Gale|Ai failed to befriend Playmaker.Data Gale]]. Playmaker destroyed Akiranoted it was just like during Blue Angel and Go Onizuka's monsters Duels, and Ai noted this prevented them from returning home. Faust started the Speed Duel with summoning three "[[Linkage Hole (anime)|Linkage HoleMotor Worm Token]]s", and Ai taunted Akira for being unable to use his Flip Monsters' effectssensed Faust was going all-out from the start. However, Ai started panicking when As "Decode TalkerCyberse Wizard" was destroyed and "[[Tindangle Acute Cerberus (anime)|Tindangle Acute CerberusMotor Worm Spreader Queen]]" was summoned, whose ATK was boosted Ai waved goodbye to 3000. her until Faust revived her with "Tindangle Acute Cerberus[[Worm Revival]]" attacked "Firewall Dragon", and . Shockingly to Ai feared he and Playmaker would lose, so the latter protected "Firewall Dragon" with Faust used "[[Doppler Phase CoatingEgg Clutch]]". Akira protected his own monster with to turn "Cyberse Wizard"into an [[Gergonne's EndInsect]]"monster. Ai wondered if there was nothing they could do, so and repeated this to Playmaker tried when he ended his turn. Due to have "Firewall DragonEgg Clutch", enhanced with Faust tributed his "[[Alert LancerMotor Worm Token]]"to summon two new tokens on Playmaker's field, attack "Tindangle Token" to finish and Ai counted the Duelqueen got 700 additional ATK. Ai smiled for The queen attacked Playmaker, who halved the victory, until Akira protected himself with damage by using "[[Morley's ShieldUrgent Link]]". Ai continued panicking when Akira played pointed out he barely survived with 50 LP left, though Playmaker stated it was still enough to fight. After destroying "[[Nagel's Protection (anime)|Nagel's ProtectionWormhole Defense]]" to protect his Tokens, and even doubling the damage "Tindangle Acute Cerberus" dealt, lowering Playmaker's LP to 500. Ai yelled to encouraged Playmaker to do something, and even wondered if there was anything that can be done to get them out of the situationuse [[Storm Access]] skill. After Playmaker told Ai to stop panicking, asking if it even was an AIwon, making the latter furious why he was so calm. Playmaker claimed if Ai was so worried about losingrepeated "humanity's future" Faust spoke of, it should consider about finding a new home. though Ai replied he didn't think know anything of that. After the Duel, since he had Playmaker as a friend Yusaku went to help rescue Naoki, who complimented him out. He also spoke about Playmaker claimed they were no friendsrescuing him, stating and Ai should behave like other AI-stold Naoki talks too much. This crushed AiYusaku, seeing Playmaker was colder than AI-s. Ai started acting like a dumb AI to amuse Playmaker, though he also wished to know about the incident from ten years ago. Hearing Playmaker was a part of [[Hanoi Project]]however, wondered if Ai started to ponder thoughts about it. He was also shocked to hear SOL Technologies' data bank contained the name of the mastermind behind the projectone that put him in danger by giving Naoki his "Cyberse Wizard".<ref name="ep19ep28">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|1928|ref}}</ref>

Ai realized Playmaker had two parallel choices who confirmed thisSince Yusaku felt uneasy, exciting Ai, as their opinions matched. As Akira declared an attack on "Firewall Dragon", Ai panicked once more, but was silenced by Playmaker. As "[[Doppler Phase Coating]]" was removed, Akirahe could not sleep and went to Kolter's Battle Phase ended, and Ai was impressed, seeing Playmaker could survivevan. As Akira summoned another token to power up "Tindangle Acute Cerberus", Ai ignored thatsmiled at Yusaku, thinking that how cute he was a pointless move, as "Firewall Dragon" would attack Akira directly. Instead, the latter activated "[[Euler's Circuit (anime)|Euler's Circuit]]" but Yusaku ordered him to stop Playmaker from attackingbe quiet. Ai lost hopeRegardless, thinking he also agreed with Yusaku something bad would be turned over to SOL Technologies. Howeversoon begin, as the conditions for Yusaku believed Varis would make his move soon.<ref name="Gergonne's Endep28" were fulfilled, Akira destroyed all monsters linked to "Tindangle Acute Cerberus" to defeat Playmaker. However, the latter's "[[Security Gardna (anime)>{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|28|Security Gardna]]" prevented the damage, ref}}</ref> Yusaku and Ai taunted Akira for falling for the trick. Ai bragged his acting made this possible, but Playmaker brushed him offin real life, as it was poor acting that nearly made Akira suspect sensed something wrongin LINK VRAINS. Despite the advantageLater, Playmaker used "[[Recovery Sorcerer (anime)|Recovery Sorcerer]]" to bring back "Security Gardna"Ai saw that Kolter lost a customer with a red triangle on his right arm. Ai questioned thisclaimed Kolter needed a mascot, as Playmaker could simply who claimed Ai would make a direct attack with "Firewall Dragon"terrible mascot. Kolter noted that the Deleted incident has been resolved, but also reminded Varis was told a Duel is more than just winning or losingstill out there. Ai thought Varis had retreated, but Yusaku doubted that. With Akira's defeatSuddenly, Playmaker walked pass by Akira Yusaku and Blue Angel, having Ai eat away SOL Technologies' data. Ai was surprised his name was mentionedfelt a pulse within LINK VRAINSS, and ate the data, latter noted Yusaku had [[Link Sense]]. Yusaku asked Kolter to scan through the point of becoming stuffednetwork. OutsideKolter worked on scanning, Shoichi praised and just as Yusaku and Aisensed another pulse, the latter being happy he Kolter saw LINK VRAINS infrastructure was praisedchanging. The two hacked into Yusaku decided to visit LINK VRAINS, even if Ai, and found out the Hanoi Project's leader was Dr. [[Kiyoshi Kogami]], an employee from SOL Technologies, who alone worked on the project in secrecyfelt a bad omen ahead. Ai doubted the man could have done this on his own, tried to convince Playmaker things would go bad and thought Akira was involvedthey should return home, but Shoichi reminded him Akira, back then, Playmaker was 16 and was not employed at SOL Technologiesfocused on finding the cause. The two continued browsingOnce again, and were shocked to see Dr. Kogami died seven years agothey sensed the pulse coming from the network.<ref name="ep20ep30">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|2030|ref}}</ref>

After being left home again[[File:Ai's Destiny Draw.png|thumb|right|Ai's Destiny Draw resulted in "Fake Trap".]]Finding some data fireflies, Playmaker traced them to a spot. As the data fireflies stopped, Ai promised to tell thought they were taking a story to Roboppybreak. The two were visited by [[Emma Bessho|Ghost Gal]], who wanted to listen morewasn't particularly pleased Ai and Playmaker were present, since she did help Ai out in "secret things"too. Both started blushing The data fireflies opened a path, though which Ghost Gal entered, and gigglingPlaymaker joined in, too. Ai told Finding a fork in the story of path, Ghost Gal saw her data fireflies went to the recent events: path on the confrontation right. Ai thought they could settle this with a game, which amused Ghost GirlGal, entering who credited the SOL Technologies' data bankAI. Ai explained he had a name, battling and Ghost Gal thought his name was just a pun. Ghost Gal told the one that chose the AI prototypes and facing "lovelier" card from her Deck could choose the former security-path. Ai was confident in his skills, but had his doubts that Ghost Gal could cheat, who told there wasn't anything beneficial in-chiefthat. Ghost Gal shuffled her Deck, Akiraand let Ai draw a card. Ai declared "Destiny Draw", himselfonly to choose "[[Fake Trap (anime)|Fake Trap]]". Ghost Gal claimed the card was nothing her favorite, and didn't even choose to draw a card. She bid farewell to Ai credited himself for some of and Playmaker's contributions, amazing Roboppygoing to the path on the right. Ai was displeased he chose "Fake Trap", until he claimed he wished everyone to fightbut Playmaker knew that Ghost Gal cheated, by using a Deck filled with him as the betbad cards. He also thought Ai was even more depressed he was cheated off once more, but Playmaker as some sort reminded the importance of their mission, and continued on. They were ambushed by a fienddata giant, who went after them, though Roboppy stated he was just cold-heartedmaking Ai even panic. After he told While dodging the storydata giant's attacks, Playmaker and Ai admitted he sensed the pulse was uncertain what would they do nextgetting stronger, since nobody else but Dr. Kogami knew about the incidentand felt a danger was coming.<ref name="ep21ep30">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|21|ref}}</ref>

===Another===[[Yusaku Fujiki|Playmaker]] continued running away from the data giant, and Ai watched an eclipse blocking told him to run faster. The two ran to a dead end, and just as the virtual sun data giant went to attack them, it disappeared in [[LINK VRAINS]]a veil of light. Ai remembered people was glad they were saved, while Playmaker noticed another abnormality. Playmaker jumped in the ancient past were scared of such eventscrack, and Ai noticed that was surprised people, even today, were still afraid. Playmaker replied people remain the same, unlike technology path that advancesGhost Gal took. The latter proclaimed the light two watched as Ghost Gal was blocked defeated by darkness, and confirmed to Ai he meant about the Varis's "[[Hanoi ProjectTopologic Trisbaena (anime)|Lost IncidentTopologic Trisbaena]]". He would not let the incident be buried in darknessGhost Gal glowed with a red light, and would uncover the truthstarted vanishing. At school, Yusaku spoke with [[Naoki Shima]], who mentioned the "[[Another]]s" incidentShe warned Playmaker of Varis and his new card before disappearing. Ai thought this had relations to [[Aoi Zaizen|Blue Angel]]and Playmaker were terrified, but Yusaku shushed himand were soon visited by Varis behind bars. Playmaker yelled at Varis, since Naoki could hear him. Inside while Ai pointed out the vanplace was collapsing, [[Shoichi Kusanagi|Shoichi]] showed and they swore to protect Ghost Gal's data. Playmaker ignored Ai and Yusaku the footage of a camera, when a person turned into an Another, which happened six minutes before midnightwho forced Playmaker to log out. Yusaku and Ai noted there were no white hands taking the person into LINK VRAINS. Shoichi told them the person had not recovered yetjoined Kolter, and showed pictures watched hundreds of more Another patients tentacles wrapped a beam that was shot in the hospitals. Ai sky and Yusaku knew this was the same accident with Blue Angel, who was infected by a virusdestroyed LINK VRAINS' cyberspace.<ref name="ep22ep31">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|2231|ref}}</ref>

Shoichi believed someone wanted people to be turned into mindless people, but has not find out what happened to their {{Incomplete|32nd episode.}}After Playmaker saved a kid in LINK VRAINS' avatars. Shoichi showed more data, and Yusaku analyzed all of the Anothers were great Duelists with old-type Duel Disks, and all of them were hackers, too. The trio realized Playmaker, or Ai, were the targets. Yusaku reminded the importance of uncovering the truth behind Lost Incident, and as noted by Ai, they had Playmaker wanted to stop people from becoming Anothers. Ai noted Yusaku was a do something cool hero of justice, even if but the latter claimed that was unnecessarysilenced it. Shoichi showed a list <ref name="ep33">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|33|ref}}</ref> Ai counted five hours left before the Tower of possible targets, from which the first Hanoi was [[Makoto Kimishima]]completed. Yusaku traced the person to his house, and saw lights at his window. Yusaku broke through into his room, and saw he became a victim. In addition, he and Ai watched Makoto's avatar inside LINK VRAINS being confronted He was not amused by [[Dr. Genome|a person]]this game, who wished to know if he was which Playmaker and had [[Ignis]]. Yusaku and Ai saw the person casted some glitter, causing Makoto swore to fall asleep and fall off the cliff, but was saved end by [[Go Onizuka]]defeating Varis. Ai cheered Playmaker watched as Go confronted the person, Drfor he bears that name for such purposes. Genome, who placed the virus into MakotoWhen Blue Angel was defeated, only to draw Playmaker out. At the van, Shoichi and Yusaku watched the [[Knights of Hanoi]] Dueling people, and turning them into Anothers. Yusaku decided to go into LINK VRAINS, even if Shoichi believed he would be at a disadvantage, and Ai wished to feel secure. The group watched as Dr. Genome came, confronting "Playmaker", who revealed himself as Go Onizuka, and challenged Genome, betting Playmaker's identitysaw a whirlwind from afar.<ref name="ep22ep34">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|34|ref}}</ref>{{Incomplete}}

Yusaku, Shoichi and Ai watched Go confronting Dr. Genome. Since Go claimed to have known Playmaker's identity, Shoichi remembered Yusaku did run into Go at the hospital, but Yusaku claimed it was impossible. Once Go equipped himself with a mask and declared himself as "Dark Onizuka", Ai thought that was a tacky thing to do. Yusaku and Shoichi realized Go changed his battling style to a heel, and would not hold back. Ai was surprised to see Go actually had his "[[Gouki Riscorpio (anime)|Gouki Riscorpio]]" attack "[[Helixx Marmotroll]]", causing the former to be destroyed, since it had less ATK. However, Ai noticed this was to have Go gain an advantage, as 500 LP was inflicted on Genome, and Yusaku added that was how a heel fights. Ai noticed Go started using his brain to win, while Yusaku noted Go still wanted to win, in his own way. Just as Go was to win, Genome played "[[Regeneration Cure]]" to stop the damage, and everyone saw Genome had the advantage. As Genome tributed "[[Helixx Necro Darwin]]" to defeat Go, Yusaku became displeased. Ai suggested he could enter LINK === Neo Link VRAINS to save Go. Yusaku who saw Go barely saving himself with "[[Gouki Octostretch]]'s" effect, decided to take Ai's advice.<ref name="ep23">=={{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|23|refIncomplete}}</ref>

After defeating [[Blood Shepherd]], Playmaker and Ai came met [[Soulburner]] and [[Flame (character)|Flame]] again, and managed to LINK VRAINS to help Go Onizuka. Drenter the unknown world through its portal. Genome noticed the Ignis was hereImmediately after arriving, who claimed he had a namethey were hit by strong winds, which forced Aiand Flame to protect them using Data Storms. Genome was surprisedAt some point, the winds stopped, and saw Ai was domesticated, like they were able to reach a pettemple where they finally found [[Windy|the wind Ignis]]. After showing them the world he had build, the Ignis (who denied decided to call himself "Windy") explained how he did that. Laterin order to attract his fellow Ignis, Playmaker and Ai suggested a person, who wanted also to fight lure the Knight of Hanoi, to go home. The man did so, while Playmaker confronted responsible for destroying the Knight of HanoiCyberse World. After Despite not knowing who was the defeatresponsible, Playmaker demanded the virus-removal program. The Knight did not have itFlame pointed out they were after [[Bohman]], so Playmaker questioned who was the virusnot only had stolen Jin' creator, and Ai threatened the Knight to delete him. Howevers consciousness, but also had [[Kyoko TakiJudgment Arrows|someone elsethe card used to destroy]] dissolved the Knight before Cyberse World, and suggested he could reply.<ref name="ep24">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|24|ref}}</ref> At the van, Ai was amused 've escaped to read Kitamura was criticized for his failed efforts to stop the Knights of Hanoia world inside Windy's world. He also read the people demanded some action They then asked Windy to be taken for someone responsible in SOL Technologies. Yusaku shushed Aijoin them, since which he was interfering with their work. After Yusaku returnedpromptly refused, Shoichi found nothing newas those statements had no evidence. Ai believed Shoichi gave upHowever, who replied Windy said he was just getting started. Latercould weaken the winds near the area where Bohman supposedly escaped to, under the condition that Playmaker and Soulburner defeat the two invaders, Ai watched Ghost Gal and [[Blue Angel Dueling BairaGirl|an unknown partner]]. He noted Blue Angel was cornered, but Yusaku shushed him, since they were still working.<ref name="ep25">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|25|ref}}</ref>

Yusaku showed Upon making contact with the woman behind an Another victimgirls, and compared her to Aoi Zaizen's doctor, Kyoko TakiBlue Girl presented herself as actually being Blue Angel. Ai confirmed this, but wondered if she Soulburner was a doctor, wouldn't she help the victim out. Yusaku reminded Ai happy to listen in meet another savior of the endold Link VRAINS, as he proclaimed she was one of the Knights of Hanoi. Yusaku went but Blue Girl stated they were actually seeking to her apartment, worrying Ai, as the place could be retrieve the Knights of Hanoi's headquartersIgnis. Yusaku replied it was more reason for him to go, While both Playmaker and Ai even asked if he was good at fighting. Inside, the two passed by a robot, and Ai hacked into the security system, opening the apartment. Ai saw nobody, but Yusaku shushed him. Continuing on, the two found a room with a pod, in which Kyoto Taki was, logged in LINK VRAINS as Baira. When she logged out, Ai proposed Ghost Gal were willing to tie her up, but she appeared next to Revolver, who punished her. Yusaku thought she released solve the virus-removal program because she felt guiltysituation without Dueling, a feeling Ai did not understandSoulburner accepted Blue Girl's challenge.<ref name="ep26ep55">{{episode|Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS|2655|ref}}</ref>

===Shoichi KusanagiKolter===Both Ai and Shoichi Kolter are shown to be on good terms with each other unlike Yusaku. Shoichi Kolter is generally shown to be very friendly with Ai and they both like to tease Yusaku for his poor social skills towards women however Ai can be annoyed with him at times.

===RoboppyRoboppi===The two appears to have some sort of romantic relationship. Roboppy Roboppi appears to have some feelings for him and Ai in return is shown to blush when she praises him. It is currently unknown if his feelings for her are mutual, but he uses her to make him set free and promises he would make her smarter.