AN
"Blah"- Normal Speech
'Blah'- Thoughts
"Blah"- Spirits
Yugioh GX
Coming of the Twilight
Chapter 25: Clash of Fate
The atmosphere in Obelisk Arena was still abuzz from the outcome of the duel that had concluded not moments ago, the fourth and final duel of the quarterfinals had come to a close with Aster Phoenix claiming victory, his opponent Zane Truesdale storming off in a huff.
"Congratulations Aster, that was an excellent performance," Chancellor Sheppard told the grey haired Pro-Duelist, "With that, the quarterfinals of the GX Tournament have come to a close and the four duelists for the semifinals are decided." The portly man looked over at each of the remaining finalists in turn. Chazz Princeton, Takuma Sartorius, Jaden Yuki and Aster Phoenix, all of them waiting to find out who they would be facing off against in the next round.
"After that display I see no reason to delay any further, lets find out the turn order for the semifinals." Sheppard glanced over at Crowler, the blond man then approached each of the remaining finalist and in turn handed them an envelope.
"The contents these envelopes will reveal whom your opponent for the semi-finals is," Sheppard told four duelists, "When instructed to, to please open the envelop."
"This is a waste of time, I already know who my opponent is." Chazz said, a sly grin on his face.
"Man, this is getting more and more intense," Syrus said to companions, "And things were hardly relaxed to begin with."
"No joke Truesdale," Hassleberry replied, "I can't even guess who the Sarge is gonna have to throw down with next. For all we know he could have Sartorius or Chazz as his opponent, then again we might be seein another rematch between him and Aster."
"All three of them are strong opponents," Bastion agreed, "Whom he goes up against, Jaden is going to have his work cut out for him."
"Now gentlemen, please open your envelope and present what is inside." Sheppard announced.
Without a moments hesitation Jaden tore the piece of paper open to discover a card inside, fishing it out he discovered that is had the number 2 printed on it. 'Huh, what's this?' he thought, despite his confusion the brunette held the card up for all to see, and he wasn't the only one. Chazz was holding up a card that also bore a 2, whilst the cards Aster and Sartorius both held had a number 1 on printed on them.
"And with that the match up's for the semi finals are decided," Sheppard announced, "The first match shall be Aster Phoenix VS Takuma Sartorius whilst the second will be Jaden Yuki VS Chazz Princeton."
Aster looked over at Sartorius, the pale skinned man looking very satisfied about the outcome. 'Sartorius, just a little longer…' He thought solemnly.
Chazz meanwhile wasn't even bothering to hide his feelings, the massive shit eating smirk on his face made it clear for all to see. "I knew it, destiny is rewarding me for my service." The dark haired duelist said to himself in glee, he then turned his gaze on Jaden, a grin on his face, "Jaden, its been a long time coming but now its so close that I can practically taste it. Just a little longer and I will finally prove that I am the superior duelist."
With the match ups decided, Sheppard tapped Crowler on the shoulder and took the man off to one side. "Crowler, I was hoping that you could do something for me." He told the effeminate looking Professor.
"C…Chancellor, I…of course." Crowler spluttered, "What do you need of me?"
"Oh its nothing really, I just need to step out momentarily," Sheppard said in a cheerful tone, "So I'll need you to cover for me."
"W…what, you want me to oversee the rest of the tournament?" Crowler exclaimed.
"Not the whole thing, and it won't be for long." Sheppard told him, "I just need to take care of something quickly and I'd rather not delay the competition. Besides, I can think of no one more suited to take over for me." Before Crowler could protest Sheppard patted him on the back before walking off, headed toward the entrance of the Arena.
Whilst this was going on Jaden was already preparing for his next duel, making sure all of his cards were in order. "You know, if you added those two Wicked Gods cards to your deck you'd have no problem crushing that annoying insect Princeton." Came the cold voice of Haou.
Jaden looked over at the Dark King. 'No way, that's not going to happen.' He told him, 'Those cards are way too dangerous, besides I'd never forgive myself if used them to hurt a friend.'
"You are far too soft hearted," Haou told him, his tone stern, "You really think that your opponent, the one whom you call friend, is going to grant you the same mercy."
'Its not Chazz's fault,' Jaden retorted, 'He's not in his right mind right now.'
"And that excuses him from his crimes." Haou said, his tone harsh, "Face it fool, whether you like it or not you will need all the advantages you can get. Since that third God Card hasn't revealed itself you have no idea about its power, if you are to fight it then you shall need something that can match it. "
"Hey Jaden." The HERO duelist was suddenly snapped out of his thoughts by the sound of someone saying his name, coming back to reality he found Aster standing before him.
"A…Aster," Jaden said, he then composed himself, "What can I do for you?"
"Listen Jaden, my match with Sartorius is only seconds a way but all the same I wanted to tell you something." Aster said, "I know that Sartorius has done so many terrible things, hurt so many people. However despite that I still think of his as my friend, and I will use all my power to bring the kind hearted person I know he is back."
"You really think you can do that?" Jaden asked.
"I don't know, but I have to try." Aster replied, "But that's not the only thing I wanted to say to you. I don't plan on losing my duel, I'll win and that I want you to be my opponent in the finals of the tournament. After all we're still tied at one win apiece, and I can think of no better place to find out which of us is the true master of HERO's."
Jaden's face broke out into a grin. "Count on it," He told his fellow HERO duellist, "I've been wanting another duel with you for ages now."
"Well, you better not lose to Princeton then." Aster said, he then turned away and headed towards the stage, "I'll be waiting in the finals for you Jaden."
At the same time Sartorius was also making his way to the stage when Chazz appeared before him. "Is there a problem Mr. Princeton?" the long haired man asked.
"Oh no master," Chazz replied, sounding like a total sycophant, "I just wanted to express my gratitude to you, you told me that I would be rewarded by following the light and now I will finally get my duel with Jaden."
"Your gratitude is unnecessary Mr. Princeton, we all have our part to play in this and your role will be fulfilled very soon." Sartorius replied, "Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to meet with an old friend."
With that the Fortune Teller strode past his remaining disciple and headed towards the stage where not minutes later both he and Aster found themselves standing across from one another, Crowler standing between them.
"Alright this is the first duel of the semi finals," he told both duelists, "Are you both ready to begin?"
"You even need to ask." Aster retorted.
"Indeed, let us proceed." Sartorius added.
"Very well then," Crowler said, "Duelists, activate your Duel Disks and draw your first five cards."
"DUEL!"
Just as the duel was starting, Zane had arrived in the lobby of the building, the only thing on his mind was to get as far away from his island as possible.
"Zane, stop." Hearing his name, Zane looked round and found Sheppard standing not too far away from him.
"What is it," the blue haired man snapped, "Come to rub salt in the wound?"
"We need to talk." Sheppard told him.
"I have nothing to say to you." Zane retorted, "I took part in your little game, I lost. What else is there to say."
"Quite a bit actually." Sheppard said, his tone stern.
[SLP: 4000] "I'll take the first turn." Sartorius said as he drew a new card. "I summon Arcana Force III – The Empress."
Arcana Force III – The Empress
ATK: 1300/DEF: 1300/Level: 4/Attribute: Light/Type: Fairy/Effect
When this card is Summoned, toss a coin:
• Heads: Each time your opponent Normal Summons or Sets a monster, you can Special Summon 1 "Arcana Force" monster from your hand.
• Tails: Each time your opponent Normal Summons or Sets a monster, send 1 card from your hand to the Graveyard
An extraterrestrial looking grey creature appeared, a version of the card appeared above Sartorius's head that began turning. "Arcana Force monsters have two special abilities depending whether it points heads or tails side up." Sartorius explained, he then reached into his pocket and took out a coin that he tossed it into the air, the metal object spun several times before handing in Sartorius's hand, heads side up.
"Well, it seems that The Empress gains its heads ability. I can now summon another Arcana Force monster from my hand when you Normal Summon or set a monster." Sartorius explained, "Next I shall set two cards face down, turn end."
[ALP: 4000] "My move then." Aster declared as he drew a card. "I summon Destiny HERO – Drilldark."
Destiny HERO – Drilldark
ATK: 1600/DEF: 1400/Level: 4/Attribute: Dark/Type: Warrior/Effect
If this card is Normal or Special Summoned: You can Special Summon 1 "Destiny HERO" monster from your hand with ATK less than or equal to this card's ATK on the field. You can only use this effect of "Destiny HERO - Drilldark" once per turn. If this card attacks a Defense Position monster, inflict piercing battle damage to your opponent
A man clad in red and black armor appeared on Aster's field, metal drill bits attached to the tips of his fingers on its left hand whilst a large metal drill attached to its right.
"Your Destiny HERO's arrival triggers The Empress's special ability," Sartorius said, "Letting me summon a new monster from my hand, so come forth Arcana Force IV – The Emperor."
Arcana Force IV – The Emperor
ATK: 1400/DEF: 1400/Level: 4/Attribute: Light/Type: Fairy/Effect
When this card is Summoned, toss a coin:
• Heads: All "Arcana Force" monsters you control gain 500 ATK
• Tails: All "Arcana Force" monsters you control lose 500 ATK
"Like The Empress, The Emperor's ability is determined by coin toss," Sartorius said, "However before that is determined, trap card open, Lucky Chance."
Lucky Chance
Type: Continuous Trap
When an Effect Monster's effect that requires only 1 coin toss is activated call Heads or Tails. If you call it right, draw 1 card
"Since all my monsters have effects determined by coin flip, if I can accurately predict the outcome, and I can, I can draw a new card." Sartorius explained, "I predict my Emperor will land on heads." He flipped the coin and caught it, "Well will you look at that, its heads. Meaning all my Arcana Force monsters gain 500 ATK." (AF3E 1300→1800 AF4E 1400→1900). "Plus I can draw a card thanks to Lucky Chance." The longhaired man drew a card.
"Guess what Sartorius, your not the only one who can pull that trick because Destiny HERO – Drilldark lets me summon another Destiny HERO from my hand when it's summoned as long as its ATK is equal or lower." Aster explained as he selected a card from his hand, "I summon Destiny HERO – Dunker."
Destiny HERO – Dunker
ATK: 1200/DEF: 1700/Level: 4/Attribute: Dark/Type: Warrior/Effect
You can send 1 "Destiny HERO" card from your hand to the Graveyard; inflict 500 damage to your opponent
A muscular tan skinned man with dreadlocks appeared beside Drilldark. Aster then selected a card from his hand and slipped it into his graveyard. "I Activate Dunker's special ability, I send a Destiny HERO in my hand to the grave and hit you for 500 damage." The tanned man charged up an orb of energy, which it then tossed at Sartorius [SLP: 3500] "I set a card, turn end."
Off to the side Jaden and his friends were watching as the duel played out. "Ah man, Aster is in big trouble." Syrus said, "They both have two monsters, however Sartorius;s The Empress's ability he can just keep summoning new ones."
"That is a problem," Bastion added, "These Arcana Force monsters are going to be tricky to overcome."
"Well go on, spit it out." Zane told his former master, "What is so important that your holding me up?"
"I wish to inquire two things from you." Sheppard said, "First is simply to find out what has become of you, what had become of the young man I met so long ago? The one who always treated his opponent with the upmost respect and honor."
"Respect and honor, you're the one who filled my head with that garbage," Zane spat in response, venom dripping from his words, "You taught me the most important thing about dueling was honor amongst duelists, that no matter who my opponent was I if showed them the utmost respect they would do the same to me. But it's not true, the Pro League was nothing like you described. What I discovered was a vipers nest filled with treachery and backstabbing. The people there only care about you so long as you're a winner and the instant your not they turn on you without a single thought."
Sheppard stared back at the young man, a serious look on his face. "You're right, the Pro League is like that. Call me foolish but I wanted to believe that I could change it." He told his former student, "I believed that if I ingrained the ideals of respect and honour into my students they in turn would pass them on to other duelists, making the League as a whole into a more honorable place."
"A foolish ambition." Zane snorted.
"Perhaps, but I still believe that I can make it happen." Sheppard told him, "I had hoped you, as this schools greatest student would be the one to be the focal point on this way of thinking. However your defeat at the hands of Aster and your downward spiral afterwards has been a very large set back in that plan."
"As I said, a foolish ambition, this plan of yours was going to work." Zane stated, "Because of you I was unprepared for the Pro League, I lacked the necessary power I needed to truly survive there. The I power I only obtained once I cast off your nonsense and focused only on victory."
"And what has that gotten you." Sheppard snapped, "Face it Zane, even with this new power of yours your no better off then you were after your defeat to Aster. It may seem that you are on the right path but what you have is not respect, its fear. You may think that may be enough to carry you through but eventually people will eventually tire of destroy opponents and you'll be right back where you started."
The portly man paused for a moment, his face shifting into an uncomfortable look. "However, that power you're so consumed with is unfortunately a necessary evil." He continued, "As much as I am disgusted to admit it your new power is the real purpose for inviting you to participate in the GX Tournament."
"And it's my turn again." Sartorius announced as he drew a card. "I call forth Arcana Force VII – The Chariot."
Arcana Force VII – The Chariot
ATK: 1700/DEF: 1700/Level: 4/Attribute: Light/Type: Fairy/Effect
When this card is Summoned, toss a coin:
• Heads: If this card destroys an opponent's monster by battle, you can Special Summon that monster to your side of the field.
• Tails: Your opponent gains control of this card
A strange looking black monster with many mechanical arms and a pair of cannons protruding from it (AF7C 1700→2200). "And of course I now flip a coin to determine its effect, I declared heads." The longhaired man flipped his coin, the metal object which again came up heads. "And The Chariot gains its heads effect, now when it destroys you monsters I can summon them to my field." Sartorius explained as he drew a card.
"The Chariot, attack Drilldark, Feeler Cannon…" charging up its cannons, Sartorius's monster fired a blast of energy at Aster's monster.
"Trap card open," Aster announced, "D-Fusion."
D-Fusion
Type: Basic Trap
Fusion Summon 1 Fusion Monster from your Extra Deck, using "Destiny HERO" monsters you control as Fusion Materials, and if you do it cannot be destroyed by battle or card effects this turn
"I offer up both my Destiny HEROS as materials and call forth a Fusion Monster." Aster said as both his monsters were sucked into the Fusion Vortex. "Fusion Summon, come forth...Destiny HERO – Dystopia."
Destiny HERO – Dystopia
ATK: 2800/DEF: 2400/Attribute: Dark/Level: 8/Type: Warrior/Fusion/Effect
2 "Destiny HERO" monsters
If this card is Special Summoned: You can target 1 Level 4 or lower "Destiny HERO" monster in your Graveyard; inflict damage to your opponent equal to that target's ATK. During either player's turn, if this card's current ATK is different from its original ATK (except during the Damage Step): You can target 1 card on the field; destroy it, and if you do, this card's ATK becomes equal to this card's original ATK. You can only use each effect of "Destiny HERO - Dystopia" once per turn
A burst of light erupted from the Fusion Vortex, from which emerged Aster's new monster, a man clad in a dark blue body suit and armor as well as a golden mask that covered his face with a red D on it, appeared before him.
"Now you get to witness the power of Dystopia, I target Dunker in my grave and Dystopia hits you for damage equal to its ATK." Aster retorted, "Now Dystopia, Squeeze Palm…" The ghostly image of Dunker rose up from the grey haired duelists graveyard and changed into a glowing ball of energy that was then sucked up into Dystopia's palm, the dark HERO's fist began to glow with energy which it then launched at Sartorius [SLP: 2300].
"I call off my attack." Sartorius said, The Chariot's energy blast bypassing Aster's monster entirely. "I switch The Empress and The Emperor to defense mode, turn end."
"My move," Aster declared, drawing a new card, "I play Pot of Greed."
Pot of Greed
Type: Basic Spell
Draw 2 cards from your deck
Aster drew his extra cards, noting what he'd picked up. "Next I summon Destiny HERO – Diamond Dude." He announced, the gem encrusted HERO appearing alongside his other HERO.
Destiny HERO – Diamond Dude
ATK: 1400/DEF: 1600/Level: 4/Attribute: Dark/Type: Warrior/Effect
Once per turn: You can reveal the top card of your Deck, and if it is a Normal Spell Card, send it to the Graveyard, otherwise place it on the bottom of your Deck. During the Main Phase of your next turn, you can activate the effect of that Spell Card in your Graveyard (even if you no longer control this face-up card)
"Summoning that Monster trigger's The Empress's ability," Sartorius said, "I summon Arcana Force I – The Magician in defense mode."
Arcana Force I – The Magician
ATK: 1100/DEF: 1100/Level: 4/Attribute: Light/Type: Fairy/Effect
When this card is Summoned, toss a coin:
• Heads: When a Spell Card is activated, this card's ATK becomes double its original ATK until the End Phase of that turn.
• Tails: When a Spell Card is activated, your opponent gains 500 Life Points
A strange looking grey creature clad in clothing that gave it the look of a jester appeared (AF1M 1100→1600). "Now I flip my coin to find out what my new creatures ability is to be, and of course I declare heads." Sartorius explained as he then tossed his coin, the metal object spun several times before handing in his hand, heads side up.
"Well, it seems that The Magician gains its heads ability, now when a spell card is activated its ATK doubles until the End Phase." Sartorius explained.
Aster frowned, now he had 4 of Sartorius's monster's to deal with. "I activate Diamond Dude's ability," he drew the top card of his deck and discovered it to be Allure of Darkness, "Since it's a Normal Spell card, it gets sent to my grave where I can activate it next turn." He said as he placed the card in his grave.
"Now Dystopia, attack The Chariot," Aster ordered, "Dystopia Blow…" The grey haired pro's monster launched itself at The Chariot, destroying it with a vicious punch [SLP: 1700].
"But that's not all, now my Diamond Dude is gonna wipe out The Empress." Aster announced, "Diamond Blow…" his monster then unleashed a barrage of diamond shards at The Empress, the Arcana Force monster standing little chance against the onslaught.
"With Empress gone, you can't use its ability to swarm the field," Aster explained, "But I'm not done yet, next I play De-Fusion."
De-Fusion
Type: Quick-Play Spell
Select 1 face-up Fusion Monster on the field and return it to the Extra Deck. If all the Fusion Material Monsters that were used for the Fusion Summon of that Fusion Monster are in your Graveyard, you can Special Summon them
"I now send Dystopia back to the Extra Deck and summon Drilldark and Dunker back to the field." Dystopia suddenly vanished in a burst of light with both of Aster's HERO's appearing in its place.
"Now Drildark, attack The Emperor." The red and black HERO lunged at Sartorius's monster, its drill making short work of it [SLP: 1500] (AF1M 1600→1100).
"Your turn Dunker, attack The Magician." The tanned skinned man charged up a glowing energy sphere and hurled it at The Magician, the defensive monster offering little resistance before it was vaporized.
"Sartorius, I know that buried deep inside you somewhere is the man that I called my friend and I will save him. " Aster stated, determination in his voice, "Turn end."
Just then Sartorius began to laugh, starting off as a chuckle and quickly escalated into full-blown laughter. "Save him, that's a rather bold statement to make Aster, however I'm afraid I'm going to have to disappoint you." The long-haired man told his opponent, he then drew a card. "My turn and I play Cup of Ace."
Cup of Ace
Type: Basic Spell
Toss a coin: • Heads: Draw 2 cards. • Tails: Your opponent draws 2 cards
"With this I toss a coin and if it hands on heads I can draw 2 cards, however if it lands on tails you draw 2 cards." Sartorius explained, tossing the coin into the air, "And of course it comes up heads."
"Y'know I've noticed somethin, this guy has managed to get a heads results every time," Hasselberry told his friends as they watched Sartorius draw his two cards, "Either he's got the greatest streak of good luck of all time goin on or somethin's seriously screwy here."
"I concur, something isn't adding up," Bastion added, "The result of a coin toss is normally to be 50/50, getting a heads result two or three times in a row I could understand, but doing so on each turn and being able to call it is astronomically low.'
Back on the field Sartorius was taking his next turn. "I activate the spell card Necro Sacrifice." He announced.
Necro Sacrifice
Type: Basic Spell
Select 1 Level 5 or higher monster in your hand. Special Summon monsters from your Graveyard to you opponent's side of the field equal to the number of Tributes required to Normal Summon that monster. (Your opponents selects the battle position(s) of the Summoned monster(s).) During this turn, you can Normal Summon monsters without tributing.
"Since I have a level 5 or higher monster in my hand, I choose 2 monsters in my grave and summon them to your field." Sartorius explained, "I summon The Emperor and The Magician, in return you get to choose their position."
"Fine, I'll put them in defense mode." Aster said, seconds later the two monsters appeared on Aster's field.
"I hope you like your gift Aster, but now we must determine their effects." Sartorius said as he took out his coin, "And I predict they both land on tails." He then tossed the coin into the air, caught it then tossed it again, both times the coin landed on tails (AF1M 1100→600 AF4E 1400→900), he then drew two cards.
"Oh come on." Aster complained, "You get nothing but heads but I can't even get one?"
"You seem disappointed Aster, I just gave you two of my monsters." Sartorius replied, "Although Necro Sacrifice does give me something as well, it allows me to summon a monster from my hand without tribute. I summon Arcana Force XXI – The World."
A giant pillar of light appeared behind the long-haired man, from it emerged a massive monster. Its black body shaped vaguely like a torso with various gold patterns running across it and a metallic arch mounted to its shoulders.
Arcana Force XXI – The World
ATK: 3100/DEF: 3100/Level: 8/Attribute: Light/Type: Fairy/Effect
When this card is Summoned, toss a coin:
• Heads: During your End Phase, you can send 2 monsters you control to the Graveyard to skip your opponent's next turn.
• Tails: During your opponent's Draw Phase, add the top card of their Graveyard to their hand.
"Aster, the end of this duel draws ever closer." Sartorius said, a sly grin on his face, "And now lets see what ability of The World will be. Not that I don't already know its going to be heads." He tossed the coin into the air, the circular piece of metal spun several times before falling into the man's out stretched hand, heads side up, Sartorius then drew a card.
"And now I play a spell card from my hand," he said as he selected a card, "Arcana Conscription."
Arcana Conscription
Type: Basic Spell
Discard an "Arcana Force" Monster card from his hand, take control of all face-up "Arcana Force" monsters your opponents controls.
"Simply by sending an Arcana Force monster from my hand to the grave, I reclaim control of The Emperor and The Magician." Sartorius discarded a card from his hand, no sooner had he done so both The Emperor and The Magician vanished from Aster's field and reappeared on his.
"Now The World, attack Drilldark," Sartorius ordered, "Over Catastrophe…" The World's orange 'eye' gem began to glow before firing a beam of energy at Aster's HERO, the attack making short work of it [ALP: 2500].
"Your torment is not over yet Aster, for now I activate The World's ability." Sartorius told his old friend, "I Release both The Emperor and The Magician from my field and your turn is skipped over."
"What, he can do that?" Bastion exclaimed, "I though the only card that can skip over the opponents turn was Mischief of the Time Goddess."
"But that's not fair." Syrus protested, "Not letting your opponent have a turn is really dirty thing to do."
"I don't think tall, light and creepy is interested in playin fair Truesdale." Hasselberry told his fellow Ra.
"Since your turn was skipped we jump straight to my Battle Phase," Sartorius said, "The World, annihilate Dunker, Over Catastrophe…" The large creature fired another beam of energy, destroying Aster's remaining monster [ALP: 600].
"Aster, your part in this story is almost at an end." Sartorius told his opponent, "So take your turn, it'll be your last."
"You hear that," Syrus said, "That creep is already declaring his victory."
"Unfortunately Syrus, he may be right." Bastion said, his tone solemn, "Aster is a good duelist, one of the best in the world, but with the power of The World at his opponents disposal I really can't see anyway that Sartorius can lose at this point."
Aster glowered at his opponent. Throughout the entire duel fortune had been on Sartorius's side, always having the cards and outcomes just as he needed them, with such overwhelming odds stacked against him, not to mention facing down a monster with the power to skip his turns, any resistance seemed futile.
'No, I can't think like that, I've come too far to just give up.' Aster berated himself, 'I swore that I would save my friend from the evil that's sunk its claws into him. Even if he's right and this is my last turn I will not back down, I'll go down fighting…'
"Real purpose?" Zane said, sounding a little confused.
"I'm sure the activities of the White Dorm hasn't gone unnoticed by you, this group has become a serious menace, all but a handful of the student body and even some of the staff have joined its ranks." Sheppard told him "They are being led by Sartorius, the man you saw take part in the second match of the quarterfinals, whom I suspect maybe be more dangerous then all of the Society members put together."
"So what," Zane retorted, "What do I care about some weak willed people who are stupid enough to join some random cult."
"That cult you're dismissing is very dangerous, until recently all but taken over the entire Island," Sheppard said firmly, "Whilst I have faith in the skills of Jaden and Aster, placing all responsibility solely on them is irresponsible on my part. As such I had to be prepared in case they failed. So I invited to you, despite the path you've gone down, I was willing to gamble that you would be powerful enough duelist to defeat Sartorius incase Jaden and Aster were defeated."
Placing his pointer and index fingers on top of his deck, the grey haired duelist slipped the top card off of it. "I activate the effect of Allure of Darkness from the graveyard," he declared.
Allure of Darkness
Type: Basic Spell
Draw 2 cards, then banish 1 DARK monster from your hand, or, if you don't have any in your hand, send all cards in your hand to the Graveyard.
"I can draw cards in exchange for banishing a Dark monster in my hand." Aster said as he prepared to draw his extra cards, 'Here we go, everything rides on this…' Slipping the top two card off the stack, he glanced at what he'd picked up, 'Its here, that card…' He then took a monster and slipped it into his pocket.
"I now summon D3." He announced. A small black machine animal shaped like a cat appeared on his field, the creatures face covered by a purple plate with a "D" emblazed on it.
D3
ATK: 0/DEF: 0/Level: 1/Attribute: Dark/Type: Machine/Effect
If this card is Normal Summoned: It is treated as a "Destiny HERO" monster while it is on the field. You can only use each of these effects of "D3" once per turn.
• You can discard up to 2 cards; Special Summon the same number of "D3" from your hand, Deck, and/or Graveyard, also you cannot Normal or Special Summon monsters for the rest of this turn, except "Destiny HERO" monsters.
• If this card is destroyed by battle or card effect: You can send 1 "Destiny HERO" monster from your Deck to the Graveyard
"I now activate D3's ability," Aster said, "I ditch a card from my hand to summon another D3 from my deck." A second black mecha cat appeared alongside the first.
"Next I use the effect of monster in my grave, Destiny HERO – Malicious." Aster continued, "I Banish it I can summon another one from my deck."
The demonic looking Destiny HERO appeared alongside the two mecha cats.
Destiny HERO – Malicious
ATK: 800/DEF: 800/Level: 6/Attribute: Dark/Type: Warrior/Effect
You can banish this card from your Graveyard; Special Summon 1 "Destiny HERO - Malicious" from your Deck
Aster then selected another card from his hand. "I now Release all three of my monsters to summon forth a HERO you know all too well, the card that the thing that now uses my friends body as a shell forced my father to create and I will now be use it to destroy you." He announced as all three of his monsters were transformed into a trio of light pillars, "I summon...Destiny HERO – Plasma."
The three pillars vanished and once again the winged monster appeared before Aster, its fearsome visage aimed at Sartorius.
Destiny HERO – Plasma
ATK: 1900/DEF: 600/Level: 8/Attribute: Dark/Type: Warrior/Effect
Cannot be Normal Summoned or Set. Must be Special Summoned (from your hand) by Tributing 3 monsters you control, and cannot be Special Summoned by other ways. Negate the effects of all face-up monsters your opponent controls. Once per turn: You can target 1 monster your opponent controls; equip that target to this card, and this card gains ATK equal to half the ATK of that equipped monster (you can only equip 1 monster at a time to this card with this effect)
"You were right old friend, this is the last turn. The last for you." Aster announced, "I use Plasma's special ability and equip it with The World. Plasma, Gravity Blood…"
Dozens of tendrils emerged from Plasma's wings and like Zane's Cyberdark Dragon before it, The World was absorbed into Plasma's wings (DHP 1900→3450). "Now Plasma, attack him directly." Aster ordered, "RAIN OF BLOOD!" Hundreds of crimson projectiles were unleashed from Plasma's wings, all of them aimed at Sartorius.
The longhaired man however seemed unconcerned. "From my hand I discard Arcana Force XIV – The Temperance." He declared.
Arcana Force XIV – The Temperance
ATK: 2400/DEF: 2400/Level: 6/Attribute: Light/Type: Fairy/Effect
During damage calculation, in either player's turn: You can discard this card; you take no Battle Damage from that battle. When this card is Summoned: Toss a coin and apply this effect. The effect lasts while this card is face-up on the field.
• Heads: Halve all Battle Damage you take.
• Tails: Halve all Battle Damage your opponent takes
"Simply by discarding it during damage calculation, I cancel out all damage from your attack." He explained, a glowing white aura appearing around him that intercepted Aster's attack. "Poor Aster, your big play turned out to be for nothing."
Aster growled in frustration, despite summoning Plasma he still couldn't bring the duel to an end this turn. "Fine, your move." He said sternly.
"Damn, that's a real kick in the teeth." Hassleberry commented, "And Aster was so close too."
"Yeah, but at least he's got the strongest monster on the field now." Syrus pointed out, "I mean with The World gone, there's no chance that Sartorius can win now."
"Statistically I'd say you're right Syrus, however with the way this duel has played out I wouldn't be so sure." Bastion replied, "After all both Aster and Sartorius have managed to turn the tide in their favor on nearly every turn."
"My turn," Sartorius declared, he then drew a card. As he did a cold shiver ran down Jaden's spine, a strange sensation was felt coming from his pocket. Sartorius looked down at the card, a sinister smirk spreading across his face. 'It's here, just as I had foreseen it…'
He then selected one of his card. "I play the Spell Fortune's Call." he declared.
Fortune's Call
Type: Basic Spell
Pay half your Life Points. Declare a number between 1 and 5 and toss a coin. Special Summon a monster from your Graveyard for each heads result. The ATK and DEF of the Monster's Summoned by this effect become 0 and their effects are negated and are banished during the End Phase.
"First I pay half my Lifepoints and then I declare a number between 1 and 5," The long haired man explained, "Next I toss a coin that many times and for each heads results I get, I can Special Summon a monsters from my Graveyard." [SLP: 750].
"So wait, your betting the outcome of this turn entirely on chance?" Aster exclaimed, shocked at his friend's words.
"Foolish human, there is no chance, not for one who controls destiny itself." Sartorius replied, "I now declare 3." He tossed his coin into the air, each time it landed on heads.
"Well what do you know, I was right." Sartorius said, his tone mocking, "I get three monsters back from my grave, return to me Arcana Force III, IV and VII." The three monsters reappeared on his field (AF3E 1300/1300→0/0 AF4E 1400/1400→0/0 AF7C 1700/1700→0/0).
The grin on the pale skinned man's face grew wider as he selected a card from his hand. "I now release my three Arcana Force monsters in order to call forth my Ultimate Weapon."
All three of his monsters burst into black energy, the mass merging together and growing larger as it took the form of a large dark sphere that hung over the field. "N…no way," Jaden exclaimed, staring up at Sartorius's new monster, "He had it all along, the final Wicked God Card."
"Jaden!" The sound of Syrus's voice drawing the brunette's attention off of the giant sphere, "Jaden you really need to see this."
Looking over Jaden was greeted by the sight of Bastion, the dark haired Ra was down on his knees and clutching at his own throat, a look of utter terror on his face as he stared up at the orb.
Unbeknown to them, he wasn't the only one.
In the Nurses Office Alexis was thrashing about violently in her bed, her body was coated in a cold sweat as gasping cries escaped her mouth, her face twisted into a look that matched Bastion's.
Beside her Atticus looked on, a look of horror on his face as he watched as his sibling thrashed about in front of him. "A…Alexis…"
Grabbing ahold of her shoulders he tried to calm her down. "Alexis…Alexis, what's happening?" he cried out, "Please, you've got to calm down…" His words however seemed to fall on deaf ears.
"W…what is that thing? Aster exclaimed, unable to take his eyes off of the dark sphere.
"That Aster is the embodiment of the future, the being that will guide the fate of all man kind." Sartorius told him, "The Wicked Avatar."
The Wicked Avatar
ATK: ?/DEF: ?/Level: 10/Attribute: Dark/Type: Fiend/Effect
This card cannot be Special Summoned. This card cannot be Normal Summoned or Set except by Tributing 3 monsters. Your opponent cannot activate Spell or Trap Cards until the end of their 2nd turn after this card is Normal Summoned. The ATK and DEF of this card are each 100 points higher than the highest face-up monster's ATK on the field (except "The Wicked Avatar")
"The…Avatar…" Aster gasped. Just then the dark sphere began to change shape, taking on a more humanoid form as well as shrinking in size. This continued until staring back at Plasma was a dark clone of itself.
"What, it turned into a copy of Plasma?" Aster exclaimed.
"That is the power of the Avatar," Sartorius replied, "It has no form of its own, instead it copies the strongest monster on the field, gaining all it power plus an extra 100 points." (TWA ?/?→3550/3550).
"What, no!" Aster exclaimed, "It can't be…"
"But it is Aster," Sartorius replied, "Avatar, attack Plasma, Dark Rain of Blood…" Dark projectiles were fired from the dark clone of Plasma, the attack making short work of the original [ALP: 500], the moment it vanished the Avatar returned to its original form.
"Did you see that?" Syrus gasped, "That monster of Sartorius took out Plasma like it was nothing."
"I ain't blind privet, I saw what happened." Hassleberry retorted, "But seriously that monster is seriously overpowered. It's ability essentially means it's always the strongest monster on the field."
"Trap card open," Sartorius announced, "Behold, Call of the Haunted."
Call of the Haunted
Type: Continuous Trap
Activate this card by targeting 1 monster in your Graveyard; Special Summon that target in face-up Attack Position. When this card leaves the field, destroy that target. When that target is destroyed, destroy this card
"With this I target a monster in my graveyard and summon it to my field," Sartorius said, "And I choose to summon Arcana Force XV."
Aster's eyes widened at the sound of this name. "…The Fiend." He exclaimed.
Arcana Force XV – The Fiend
ATK: 2500/DEF: 2500/Level: 7/Attribute: Light/Type: Fairy/Effect
When this card is Summoned, toss a coin:
● Heads: When this card attacks, select and destroy 1 monster on the field. Then, inflict 500 damage to the controller of the destroyed monster. If that monster is not destroyed, destroy this card.
● Tails: When this card attacks, destroy all monsters on the field.
Instantly a new monster appeared on Sartorius's field, a mass consisting of three large eyeballs connected to some kind of black fleshy mass with several red tendrils protruding from it with scythe like blades connected to them. No sooner had this creature appeared The Avatar began to change shape, becoming a dark version of The Fiend (TWA ?/?→2600/2600).
Seeing The Fiend, Aster was reminded of a half forgotten memory from his childhood. Of Sartorius explain tarot cards to him, telling him about the meaning behind each of the cards. It was on that day his friend had informed him of how one day The Fiend would represented him.
No, that was wrong, The Fiend didn't represent his friend at all; rather it represented the man Sartorius was right now, the twisted evil version that had been corrupted by whatever the space entity that was using Sartorius form called itself.
Over to the side Jaden and his other friends watched on. "This is bad," Bastion said to the others, "Aster has no monsters or set cards, his chances of victory are pretty much nil."
"Not to mention that new monster of Sartorius has looks super freaky." Syrus added.
Jaden's said nothing, his eyes were fixed upon the duel that was playing out before him, a serious look on his face. 'Aster…'
"Aster, this is the end." Sartorius told his opponent, "The Fiend, attack Aster directly. Devil Disaster…" The monstrosity launched one of its tendrils, the red whip like appendage striking Aster in the chest and knocking him off of his feet [ALP: 0].
Back in the lobby Zane and Sheppard were still staring at each one another, both waiting for the other to say something. Just then a beeping noise was heard. Reaching into his blazer Sheppard took out his PDA.
"The duel between Aster and Sartorius is over," he told Zane, "Aster lost, with his defeat that leaves only Jaden to oppose Sartorius."
"So what, case you forgot I've already been eliminated from your little Tournament." Zane told the man, he then began to walk off, "I'm leaving, there's nothing left for me to do here."
"Zane…" Sheppard called out, before he could say anything else he was cut off.
"Save it," Zane said sharply, "You're not my teacher anymore; so spare me the lecture."
Sheppard frowned. "Your right, you're no longer my student." He told the blue haired Cyber Duelist, "However, that doesn't mean there isn't a thing or two left for me to teach you."
These words stopped Zane dead in his tracks. "Are you threatening me?" He demanded.
"No, I just want to impart you with some final words before you leave." Sheppard replied, "I suggest you take a good long look at yourself Zane, see what you have become. I want you to ask yourself if you can truly live with being that person."
The bald man then turned on his heel and began to walk away. "I need to be getting back to the Tournament," he said, "You're free to go of course, however if even the slightest trace of the duelist you once still remains, I encourage you to stick around and support the young man that you passed your crown onto. The duel he is about to partake in may just be the toughest of his life. Or you can leave. The choice is yours."
With those words Sheppard departed, leaving Zane alone in the lobby.
Aster collapsed onto the ground, wincing he glanced over and found Sartorius baring down on him, being flanked by both versions of The Fiend. "Aster, you've failed." The longhaired man said, his face twisted into a cruel looking smirk, "You tried to go against Destiny despite being shown that all things play out as they are supposed to, your defeat to me was preordained by fate. But do not worry friend, there is still one last thing that you can do."
No sooner had he said these words the same glowing mist that had appeared after Chazz's duel with Blair seeped in and covered the Arena floor. "Oh just great." Hassleberry said in voice of frustration, "This stuff again."
"What do you mean," Syrus asked, "What is this stuff?"
"Oh right, both you and Bastion were unconscious the last this stuff showed up." Hassleberry said, "This stuff showed after Chazz beat Blair, can't explain how but it appeared outta nowhere and covered the entire Arena. When it vanished Blair was just gone."
As they were talking Jaden was watching Aster, the mist beginning to envelop the Destiny HERO duelist. "Aster!" he cried out, he then made to dash over to Aster's side.
"No Jaden, stay back. I'm done, I tried and failed and now its up to you" Aster shot back, "Please, please promise me you'll beat whatever is possessing Sartorius's body. You're the only one who can do it now."
Jaden stared at him, the only thing still viable of Aster was his head. "Aster…"
The grey haired Duelist's features then shifted into a sad looking smile. "Looks like we won't be meeting each other in the finals after all, guess our tie breaker will have wait a little while longer." He told him, "It's all on you now dude, don't mess this up."
As he spoke the mist enveloped him completely, his voice growing faint until it faded away. Not long after the mist began to dissipate the only thing of Aster being his Duel Disk and cards that were scattered across the floor.
The sight of this brought Jaden to his knees, at that moment he felt small and powerless. He had just lost another friend. "No, not Aster…" he managed to say, a feeling of anger then began to well up within him. "No more, no more. This ends now."
He then turned his gaze upon Sartorius, the longhaired man standing above him with a sinister grin on his face, as he did his eyes shifted to match Yubel's. "That's it, I'm done. I'm done losing friends to you." He said in a low tone, "Sartorius, I'm coming for you and I'm ending this."
AN And with that another is fini.
Not gonna lie to you, researching Arcana Force for this duel was a rather sizeable pain in the behind cos the archetype as a whole suuucks. The idea for them being based on the 22 Major Arcana of the tarot is an interesting one however the execution being based entirely around coin tosses is kind of a pain (unless of course your Sartorius who has the power to control fate). Not to mention only 14 of the 22 Major Arcana got some kind of representation, the ones that didn't being…
II - The High Priestess. V - The Hierophant (which in the show represented Aster). IX - The Hermit (which represented Eisenstein). XI - The Justice. XVI - The Tower (which represented Domino City). XVII - The Star. XIX - The Sun (which represented Alexis) and XX - The Judgement.
Plus of those 14 cards that were played in the show only 9 ever made it into the OCG/TCG and that's not even getting into the Spell/Trap support of which only 3 were ever printed and Cup of Ace and Tour of Doom (the card supposedly representing XIII The Death) aren't even considered part of the Archetype. If your still curious on why this is a bad set of cards, there's a guy on Youtube called Rank10YGO who does a series called 'Legacy of the Worthless' where he talks about bad archetypes and Arcana Force was the second entry in the series.
I'm done for now, next time is Jaden VS Chazz. Feel free to leave feedback cos I'd love to see what you all thoughts for this chapter are.
Next time...
Jaden: Aster has been defeated and it turns out Sartorius is in possession of the final Wicked God Card.
Chazz: Jaden, the time for our final duel has finally arrived.
Jaden: Chazz…I guess I have no choice.
Yubel: Next time of Yugioh GX Coming of the Twilight: Dragons Wrath
Jaden: Hey Chazz, where are the Ojama's?