Hi, all! Here's the next chapter of the story! I am sorry (as is apparently becoming routine) for the delay as to posting this, but there were higher-priority works that had to be done before this was good to go.
Just so you know, this chapter has the character Michael Z. Palus, created by 'Myydraal' in a Duel. All cards that this character uses, as well as the character themselves, are owned by 'Myydraal'. If you like the character, be sure to give 'Myydraal' your comments; a good chunk of time has been sent to develop Michael's character.
Also, here are the character names for this chapter. They're coming up after someone reminded me about that (thanks, by the way), and they're listed in no particular order.
Yusei Fudo = Yusei Fudo
Maxx = Maxx
Michael Z. Palus = Michael Z. Palus
Saiga = Blister
Yanagi = Tenzen Yanagi
Ushio = Bolt Tanner
Bommer = Greiger
Mukuro Enjo = Hunter Pace
Ruka = Luna
Professor Frank = The Professor
Hope this helps you to know who's who.
DISCLAIMER! The author of this story does not own the card games Yugioh and Android: Netrunner, nor does he own the companies Konami and Fantasy Flight Games. The author does own his OC, Duel Runner and Duel deck.
Not too much to say this time around. I've just had my head piled in books and papers recently, so... yeah. Hope this chapter is worth the wait (and no, I'm not the creator of Valve) (Chuckle).
Onward to the Chapter!
I place my Deck back into my Disk after an unknown amount of time with a sigh; a few changes have been made, but it feels so wrong to make any changes at all. The Deck has only been used in one Duel; could it still succeed in more as it is?
[ADAPTING TO YOUR SURROUNDINGS AND ENEMIES IS ESSENTIAL TO SURVIVAL]
The words in my mind only confirm what I already know; I can't stick to one formula forever and expect it to win every single time. However, my emotions tell me to stick with what I've got—that I should give it another chance. This clash of logical action prevents me from realizing someone is next to me until I smell an unfamiliar aroma from my right.
I glance over in surprise and shift back along the wall when I see that Maxx is crouched down and staring intently at the right side of my face. Her earbuds have been removed, her music player probably in her pockets, but not visible. From her concentrated expression, I quickly reason she's looking at the Superior's implants. Her face quickly shifts to an annoyed look when she realizes I've noticed her.
"Don't be so jumpy," she says as she stands up, her eyes not leaving mine. "You'll get yourself or someone else hurt with wild moves like that."
"Well," I reply with a glare as I stand up as well, "you started it by getting so close to me. Does the term 'personal space' mean anything to you?"
"Not when I want to know something." Maxx's comment sets me on edge as she crosses her arms over her chest. "Especially not when what I want to know concerns public safety. I'm no cop, but I care for folks who like my talents just the same."
"For someone called the 'Maximum Punk Rocker'," I comment while walking towards the nearest table, "a cop doesn't sound like a very good job." Maxx snorts at me as I sit down in a chair. She saunters over to the chair across from mine and sits down with her hands underneath her chin.
"Hey," she calmly says as she moves a hand to her chest. "I'm a rock star. I depend on public appreciation and attendance to keep the cash flowing. Problem with that is, the entertainment business can get brutal and bloody at times." I raise an eyebrow as an invitation for her to continue; she lets a breath out through her nose before continuing.
"Listen, I was just curious about what those 'Superiors' did to you during your Duel, and if your appearance had anything big to do with it. Whoever or whatever these 'Superiors' are, their brainwashing was pretty scary to see."
"Is calling it 'brainwashing' your personal opinion?" I ask. "If it is, then most of the public don't seem to share it; they'd rather treat me with hatred and mockery. You saw how they reacted to the Superiors when they stated the Collective's goals."
"Oh, they're afraid," Maxx quickly replies. "They just don't want to show that to what's making them piss their pants. Like it or not, whatever brainwashed you during your Duel is trying to scare people into submission."
"It wasn't brain-" I stop myself with a grunt before I blurt out what actually caused the Superior's to control my body. Maxx smirks when she sees my muck-up.
"Hey, I don't think you're a monster," she says with a wave of a hand. "Besides, there's a lot of people like you around the seedier areas of town nowadays; people with machine implants, or word about people who could create them. What you've done different from them is stepped into the spotlight—gone public about what this 'Collective' can do. Right now, you probably shouldn't have done that."
"People are scared of the Black Rose Witch, as well, and she stepped out into the spotlight at this tournament," I counter. "What makes me any more special, or makes my revealing any worse?"
"You're new in town, 'Netrunner'. The Black Rose Witch is… was an urban legend in Neo Domino for a long time before this tournament. You've been able to enter this event mere days after the news calls you a 'Dueling Terrorist'. That's made some heads turn, you know."
"I don't believe you," I say as she takes a breath. "People are naturally afraid of things that they don't understand. If they would just take the time to listen and study things, then they'll be less fearful of the world."
"Many of us don't have that time," Maxx replies with irritation in her voice. "A good chunk of people like living in the moment, enjoying what's happening now. My stage shows are full of hedonistic assholes and partygoers because that's where they feel they belong. They're not going to just fork their pleasures over for something you can read in a book; if anything, they're going to hoard their desires like the greedy idiots they are."
"I don't need to listen to this," I comment as I forcefully push my chair back and stand up. "If you're just going to blab on and on about how I should regard society, then you're far from the first to say those words. Don't talk to me about this again. Actually, don't even get that close to me again."
Maxx remains silent as I walk back to the couches and take a seat, my inner emotions just as wild as before. I have no curiosity as to why she acted that way; if she's a high-paying celebrity like Godwin or Jaeger, I have no business with her. I take one glance at her from the corner of my eye to see her already back into her music, but she sends one last glare my way.
The lounge doors open a few moments later. I turn towards them to see Yusei carrying a few items in his hands and under his arms. He moves to the couches and hands me a wrapped sandwich. The label says the contents are bacon, lettuce, and tomato between white bread. I give Yusei a nod and a, "Thank you," before I open the food up and dig in.
To my surprise, my digestive system has no negative reaction to the food. Maybe my hunger is stronger than my fear at this point. I'm not too sure why. Whatever the case, I finish the sandwich in a few minutes and dispose of the wrapping in a wastebasket in the room; Yusei sits next to me on the couch with a small sushi platter wrapped in plastic, chopsticks already in hand. We remain silent for several minutes, or maybe just a few; each second that passes feels twice as long as usual because I know there's something I should know, but haven't yet figured out.
"All right," I blurt out just as I see Yusei finishing up his meal. "Time for some answers, Yusei. I saw you back at the Daimon Area arena, but I fell unconscious before you could get to me. What happened there? Tell me everything; we've got the time."
Yusei doesn't answer immediately, putting his meal in the same trash can and coming back without a word. Then he starts talking without much pause, his words so vivid that the scene plays out in my mind with great detail…
[3rd Person POV]
"Samuel! Samuel!" Yusei cries out as he charges towards the charred body of the 'Netrunner'. He vaguely sees another person racing forward as well, but he ignores that because of the more imminent problem in front of him. The Satellite sees Samuel's mouth briefly open, eyes wide in either pain or fear before they roll back into his head and his body slumps full onto the ground.
Before Yusei takes two more steps forward, a loud ping mixes with a female scream just before a massive cloud of thick smoke fills the Daimon Area arena. Yusei's eyes, nostrils and throat burn as he breathes in some of the gas; he covers his mouth and nose with his hands, his eyes streaming as he stumbles forwards to where he thinks Samuel is.
A large figure shoves Yusei aside, the Satellite's vision too watery to see any more than a shirtless chest, a red bandana, and some kind of mask. Two other figures, shrouded almost completely by the smoke, join the first and move as one in front of Yusei's former position. They quickly reach down and pick something up, and then race off into the grayness. Yusei's sides ache from the pain of impacting the arena's dirt and stone surface as he stands up and tries to follow them.
Unfortunately, when the smoke clears a few seconds later, those figures are gone, along with almost every other witness to the Black Rose's wrath, except Yusei's friends. The woman Yusei saw going towards Samuel pounds the ground with her fists, her voice a mix between sobs and coughs.
"Mac," Saiga shouts out as he approaches the woman. "Are you all right?"
"Damn it!" 'Mac' cries out after a short coughing spasm. "DAMN IT! Why didn't I think they'd take him away? They already got to him! Why do they need him again?!"
Anger sparks within Yusei as he hears this; he thunders over to the woman, grabs her by the shoulders and lifts her upright. Her green eyes are red from the smoke, her breath coming in short gasps.
"Who?" Yusei asks as clearly as he can. "Who did this? Who took Samuel away?!" Mac starts coughing again, and it takes her several seconds to recover. By the time she can speak again, Ushio, Yanagi, and Saiga have come over; Rua and Hayano are nowhere to be seen, probably having run off in fear.
"It's that Collective," she chokes out. "They took him away, and they probably made him act like he did in the Duel. I should have known they'd be behind this!"
"The Collective?" Saiga asks with a raised eyebrow. "Aren't they that group of new-fangled engineers working in this area? I haven't heard much about them." Mac looks at Saiga with a cold glare before she forces herself out of Yusei's grip and stands upright.
"If that's all you know, Saiga," she comments as she brushes dust off of her stained overalls and undershirt, "then you've grossly underestimated their power. I only know what I do because I used to be friends with one of their agents before she took the name 'Andromeda'. Before the Collective got to her." She then turns to Yusei with the same expression.
"Listen," she says to the Satellite. "I don't know how to get your friend out of the Collective's grip. More likely than not, you'll see him again after they change him with whatever it is they do to new recruits. I hope for your sake that he recognizes you after that happens."
"This is getting scary!" Yanagi screams out in the midst of biting his nails; Ushio rolls his eyes at the elder man's antics, but he's the only person to notice.
"The Collective are technological experts," Mac explains as she glances around the now-deserted arena. "No one who works with them for long will walk away without some kind of mechanical implant or contraption. I don't know what'll happen to your friend, specifically, but he won't be the same when you next see him."
"He's my friend," Yusei counters. "I'll recognize him for who he really is."
"That's easier said than done, especially since the Collective isn't the only threat in the city," Mac says as she brushes a stray hair away from her face, and then extends a hand to Yusei. "But, I'm all for keeping tabs on potential evils, especially with help. My name's Mac McCaffrey, but you can call me Kate."
"Yusei Fudo," the man replies as he shakes the offered hand. "Thanks for the help."
[Samuel's P.O.V.]
"So," I say as Yusei finishes his tale, "That's how you met Kate. I did see her coming towards me when you did; I just didn't see what happened afterwards. I think I've seen the agent you bumped into; the shirtless one with the bandana."
"You have?" Yusei asks with concern. "Who is he?"
"He's Edward Kim," I reply. "Apparently, he's a former track-and-field runner who had his legs broken when he reported on another runner injuring other competitors. The Collective found him in the sewers where he was left to die, and replaced his legs with cybernetic ones; in return, he guards the Superiors, or leaders of the group, from physical harm."
"The Collective replaced his legs?" Yusei raises his eyebrows in surprise. "That sounds more generous than Kate had described this group to be. What about the other two people I saw?"
"Can't help you there," I reply as I stretch back into the couch. "The only other agents I know of work in different areas of the city. There is a way to identify Collective agents, though-"
I clench my teeth and lightly moan as a pounding rebuttal to the words I plan to say makes my head ache and breaks my train of thought. The words in my mind don't say anything, but I get the message all the same; don't talk about the Collective's methods so openly. Yusei places a hand on my shoulder in support, but I sit back up a moment later, no worse for wear.
"Sorry," I quietly comment. "The Superiors don't want me talking about that, it seems." After Yusei blankly stares at me, I sigh and say, "It's the guidance implant I spoke about earlier; the Superiors installed it in my brain when they replaced my damaged eye, and it comments every so often on my actions or thoughts."
"You're not angry about that?"
Yusei's question makes me swallow hard before shaking my head several times with the words, "I've grown used to it." I want to tell him how I really feel about the implants, but I'm worried that doing so will make the Superiors mad. Since they can take direct control of my body, angering them could be a literal death wish.
A loud fanfare comes from the TV; I turn my attention to the screen as the music concludes and the MC comes into view. I feel a twist in my gut as I realize what he's probably going to say.
"Everyone, listen!" he announces with the same gusto as before. "The intermission has finished up; the Stadium technicians have completed their repairs. The Fortune Cup can now resume!" The audience cheers as they hear this, no doubt wanting more Duels to take place.
"With this in mind," the MC continues, "I am pleased to announce the final Duel of the Fortune Cup's first round. Considering how amazing the past Duels have been, this will surely be interesting to see!" The audience agrees, though the volume of cheers is less than before; I judge this to be from the damage caused to the Stadium and the people inside.
"First, introducing one of the respected mechanics from the Daimon Area, and calling himself the 'Kelolon Commander', Michael Z. Palus!" The crowd cheers for the tall Duelist as his platform rises up under the spotlight, the man giving a few waves to the crowd as he fully rises to the level of the stage. His Duel Disk is a standard Battle City variety, but with an additional shade of light green and a round helmet around the Deck holder.
"Now, his opponent! The 'Mistress of Metal', the 'Spell Screamer', with three chart-topping albums to her name; ladies and gentlemen, I present Maxx, the 'Maximum Punk Rocker'!" A burst of smoke accompanies the musician's reveal, the crowd apparently consisting of several hundred fans, judging from the volume of their cheers. Maxx's Duel Disk is a mix of black, red and orange, along with the sides having extra protrusions, like an electric guitar would have.
"Neo Domino City!" she shouts out to the crowd, her voice amplified by an unseen microphone that's probably on her person. "Are you ready to ROCK?!" The crowd cry out their approval as Maxx raises her hands up and flashes peace signs to the assembled audience.
"All right, Duelists," the MC cuts in once most of the cheering has died down. "Let's shake those hands!" Michael and Maxx both advance to the center end of the arena, both of them walking with confidence and smiles.
"Let's make this last Duel entertaining, OK? I think the folks here want a good show," Michael states this with a wider grin than usual as she shakes Maxx's hand.
"Every one of my shows is entertaining," Maxx responds with a sultry smirk. "This Duel won't be any less exciting, I guarantee that. I'm also curious about these 'Kelolon' you have; don't disappoint me with them." Michael nods back before the two separate and head back to their former positions. They turn towards each other and activate their Disks almost at the same time.
"Let the first round's final match begin!" This comes from the MC as the Solid Vision projectors reactivate.
"DUEL!"
[DUEL BEGINS] [ROUND 1] [Maxx: 4000 LP/Michael: 4000 LP] [CARDS IN HAND: 5 (Maxx), 5 (Michael)]
"The commander will go first," Michael says as he draws a card. "I'll lead the charge for my troops."
[CARDS IN HAND (Michael): 6]
The mechanic looks at his hand for several seconds before taking a card and saying, "A musician like you values creation, right? So, you'll probably like this idea. I activate the Continuous Spell Wish Upon a Star!" The card's image shows a large constellation of stars amidst a clear night sky, with a single shooting star streaking towards the ground in a stream of fire.
[CARDS IN HAND (Michael): 5]
"This card gets a Wish Counter whenever another Spell Card is activated," Michael explains as seven points of light glow in a circle on the arena floor, surrounding Michael's field. "Something really cool will happen once it reaches 7. I'll get the Counters going by activating the Spell Role Call!"
The card's image shows a tadpole-like creature in the distance blowing a bugle, and two similar creatures racing out of a hut towards the bugler while hastily putting on helmets, or drawing spears. The rushing figures have a comical sweat drop on their faces that further shows their displeasure with being called out like this. One of the seven points glows blue as the Spell activates (Wish Counters: 1).
[CARDS IN HAND (Michael): 4]
"This Spell is pretty simple," Michael explains. "I get to search through my hand and Deck and Special Summon two Level 3 or lower Monsters to my field in Defense Mode. I'll bring out Kelolon Sentry and Warrior Kelolon!"
The blare of a bugle accompanies two separate small vortexes of blue-green water that rise from the arena's surface. They dissipate after a few seconds to reveal two 'Kelolons'; tadpole-like creatures with bulging stomachs, two thin arms and legs, as well as human-like hands, that stand up to Michael's waist.
The 'Sentry' has its body mostly-hidden in a ghillie camouflage suit. What can be seen of its green limbs reveal them to be extremely short, but apparently strong enough to wield a large bow, an arrow already nocked to fire. A pair of red eyes stare from beneath the suit; the creature's disguise looks out of place on the arena floor, but that doesn't seem to discourage it (WATER, Aqua/Tuner, 300 ATK/800 DEF, LVL 2).
The 'Warrior' doesn't have the same camouflage, or even a weapon, but it does wear the same helmet as the Sentry. Its green body bulges out like a sack compared to its thin arms and legs; its head is an even darker shade of green underneath its helmet. It shields its face with clenched fists as it lets out a loud, high-pitched, "Ribbit!" (WATER, Aqua/Beast-Warrior, 700 ATK/400 DEF, LVL 2).
"Those are the Kelolon?" Maxx's voice doesn't hold back on her disappointment as both Monsters turn a dark shade of blue. "I expected something… cooler." Michael just snorts and waves a hand nonchalantly.
"Everyone's got their own definition of cool," he says with a glance at the rock star. "I assure you, though, the Kelolon Army is not to be underestimated. I'll bring out a fellow leader to the battle; the Kelolon Commander, in Attack Mode!"
[CARDS IN HAND (Michael): 3]
Another vortex of water brings forth a Kelolon with a gold helmet, but this one wields a sword in one hand and a shield in the other. It skillfully twists the sword in the air before stabbing the air in front of it with a high-pitched grunt. The other Kelolon emit cheers when they see this display of prowess (WATER, Aqua/Beast-Warrior, 1500 ATK/1200 DEF, LVL 4).
"Commander's effect," Michael calls out with a quick wave of his hand. "Morale Boost! All other Kelolon receive 400 more Attack Points and Defense Points points while Commander is on the field. Soldiers fight harder when a superior officer is with them." The Sentry and Warrior both shift into a better defensive posture when the Commander gives them an order in what sounds like high-pitched croaks (ATK/DEF (Sentry): 300-700/800-1200) (ATK/DEF (Warrior): 700-1100/400-800).
"With the battle line secured," Michael says as he takes a card from his hand, "I'll place one card in my back row and end my turn."
[CARDS IN HAND (Michael): 2]
"What a start!" the MC calls out. "Michael is going out guns blazing, Summoning 3 Monsters in one turn! I'd say that's against the rules, but it all checks out!" Maxx doesn't look as impressed, or she is choosing not to show it as she draws for her turn.
[TURN 2: Maxx] [CARDS IN HAND: 6]
Maxx grins as she looks over her hand and says, "That lineup of yours is looking pretty tempting to take down. I think I'll start with this guy—a friend from before the Stone Age, when raw power and energy helped you make your place in the world. Kick it off, Jurrac Guaiba!"
A red portal materializes on Maxx's field and stays open long enough for a two-legged red, yellow, and blue-skinned dinosaur that looks similar to a Guaibasarus to emerge and stand at equal height to Maxx. Orange flames sprout from the yellow skin and spines along its back and head, its small four-fingered arms, the ends of its large four-clawed feet, the end of its red tail, and from its mouth as it lets out a throaty cry. Blue skin mostly covers the inner red skin of its face, its yellow eyes hungrily looking at the opposing Kelolon (FIRE, Dinosaur, 1700 ATK/400 DEF, LVL 4).
[CARDS IN HAND (Maxx): 5]
"Guiba, let's show these Kelolon who's really got the power," Maxx commands. "Take out that Commander with Burning Roar!" Guiba follows the command and roars, a stream of fire flying from its mouth towards the Commander. The Kelolon tries to block it with his shield, but his body is eventually consumed by the flames. A few sparks fly onto Michael's coat; he quickly brushes them off (Michael: 4000-3800 LP). The other Kelolon let out cries of disapproval at the sight (ATK/DEF (Sentry): 700-300/1200-800) (ATK/DEF (Warrior): 1100-700/800-400).
"We're not done yet," Maxx says as the sound of approaching footsteps can be heard. "Since Guiba destroyed a Monster in battle, its Killing Call lets me Special Summon one 'Jurrac' Monster with 1700 or less Attack from my Deck to the field. The only downside is that the Summoned Monster can't attack this turn. Let's back Guiba up with the Tuner Monster Jurrac Gallim in Defense Mode!"
The source of the footsteps reveals itself; an orange and blue-skinned dinosaur similar to a Gallimimus. Fire emerges from a chest cavity and trails behind its blue feet, but its skin is otherwise un-charred. A small feathered wreath shrouds the bottom of its long neck to its orange body, stripes along the legs leading to the three-clawed feet. Its long tail provides balance as its four-clawed arms snatch at something in the air; it lets out a soft cry as it switches to a defensive posture and turns a shade of blue (FIRE, Dinosaur/Tuner, 1200 ATK/0 DEF, LVL 2).
"Well," Michael comments with a nod to Gallim, "it looks like both of our Decks can Special Summon allies to the fight. Then again, I didn't think you'd be running Dinosaurs as a Deck, considering your line of work as a musician."
"True music can come from anywhere," Maxx replies with a spreading gesture to the arena crowd. "Why wouldn't I draw on the time of the dinosaurs for pulse-pounding beats and wild solos? The dinosaurs made their own music, just as I do. Their song is the music of battle, survival of the fittest; mine speaks to the working Joe or Rosie and makes each day great to live in. Can your Kelolon do that?"
"The Kelolon are a simpler kind," Michael comments after a moment to think. "They are considered weak by many, but they work better together, probably more so than your dinosaurs do. I don't recall carnivores being so cooperative with each other."
"You're right on that," Maxx admits as she takes another card from her hand. "But, I can say we've learnt from that time with cards like this. I play the Spell Fossil Dig! This lets me add one Level 6 or lower Dinosaur-Type Monster from my Deck to my hand." The card shows the members of the A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit mulling over a site grid with plans to dig the area up. Another of the points around Michael's field lights up as Maxx looks through her Deck (Wish Counters: 2)
[CARDS IN HAND (Maxx): 4]
After a moment to deliberate, Maxx takes one card with a quick nod and the words, "This'll do." Michael doesn't react to the vagueness of the phrase as Maxx's Deck is automatically reshuffled once placed back in the Disk.
[CARDS IN HAND (Maxx): 5]
"I'll place one card face-down and end my turn," Maxx comments with a smirk. "Let's see if you can recover; I'd say you're in trouble now."
[CARDS IN HAND (Maxx): 4]
"Maxx isn't letting Michael get any field control," the MC comments. "Will the Kelolon army be able to stand against this threat?"
[ROUND 2] [Maxx: 4000 LP/Michael: 3800 LP]
"Let's see what I get," Michael says as he draws. He laughs for a moment as he notes his new card.
[TURN 3: Michael] [CARDS IN HAND: 3]
"If you were hunting for trouble," he says, "here's my answer. I Tribute Warrior Kelolon to Advance Summon Diamond Kelolon!" The soldier in question jumps up as its form is covered by another vortex of water. When the vortex clears, a chubbier, silver-colored Kelolon lands on the ground, its body glowing very brightly under the sun's light, to the point where it is almost blinding to look at directly. It grunts as it stands at full height, slightly taller than the Commander (WATER, Aqua/Beast-Warrior, 2000 ATK/400 DEF, LVL 6).
[CARDS IN HAND (Michael): 2]
"Time to show you the force the Kelolon can achieve!" Michael shouts confidently. "After I switch Warrior Kelolon to Attack Mode, Diamond Kelolon will attack Jurrac Guaiba. Reflection Punch!" The Kelolon twists its arm at a right angle, sunlight reflecting off its fist to make it glow brightly. Guiba stumbles a bit as it rapidly blinks its eyes under the intense light; the Kelolon takes that moment to jump forwards and slam its fist into the dinosaur's forehead. Guiba cries out as its entire body is covered in light, and then explodes into pixels. Maxx cries out as a few shards fly past her face, but don't leave wounds (Maxx: 4000-3700 LP).
"Not bad," Maxx comments as she brushes her face once to clear any remnants of the attack, "but I don't think you've realized the presence you've made for yourself here. The land knows you're here, and it's going to react if you treat it badly. Here's an example! Continuous Trap, activate: Seismic Shockwave!"
The arena floor rumbles as Maxx's Set Card reveals itself, showing the landscape of 'Jurassic World' shaking from a massive earthquake. Michael looks on in surprise as three small fissures appear in the arena floor beside him with ominous cracks, filling the only places in his back row that don't have a Spell or Trap Set or activated.
"What this little Trap does is a bit unique," Maxx explains after the rumbling dies down. "Since you destroyed one of my Dinosaurs in Battle, three of your empty Spell and Trap Card Zones can't be used to hold or activate cards. Even better, those cracks are going to remain until my 3rd Standby Phase from now; if it lasts until then, I can fetch a Dinosaur-Type Monster from my Graveyard and put it in my hand!"
"Maxx has used an interesting reaction to Michael's attack," the MC comments. "With both of his open Spell and Trap Card Zones occupied, the Kelolon Commander can't use any Spell or Trap Cards other than Field Spells!" Michael doesn't seem too upset by the limitation, considering his expression doesn't change.
"I've still got some fight left," he says. "Warrior Kelolon attacks Jurac Gallim. Whirling Fist!" Warrior croaks loudly as he races towards the blue-shaded dinosaur, spinning his right arm faster and faster in preparation for a massive punch. Gallim tries to dodge the impact by tilting its neck to one side, but the warrior fakes it out by attacking with its left fist first, and then uppercutting it with its right fist with a loud crunch. The impact is strong enough to shatter the dinosaur into pixels, but Maxx's laugh cuts the victory short.
"You've done it now," Maxx comments while pointing at Michael. "By destroying Jurrac Gallim in Battle, you've activated its Vengeful Spirit ability! Now, you have to discard one card from your hand; otherwise, the Monster that destroyed Gallim goes down with it!" A ghostly image of Gallim starts to peck at the offending Kelolon, who covers its face with its arms as it runs around the field, shrieking loudly.
Michael sighs as he says, "I'll pay the cost." He discards a card from his hand, and the phantasmal Gallim instantly vanishes. However, a distant roar makes Michael look on in worry.
"Oho, we're not done yet," Maxx says as she takes a card from her hand. "By destroying one of my Defense Position 'Jurrac' Monsters in Battle, you've activated the Prideful Arrival of my Jurrac Herra; now, it can be Special Summoned from my hand or Graveyard. Come on out, Jurrac Herra!"
[CARDS IN HAND (Maxx): 3]
A column of fire bursts from the ground to reveal a green and yellow-colored Herrerasaurus with two large black cannons studded with yellow spikes mounted on its shoulders, the weapons supported by a green ridge along the creature's lower back. The yellow on its skin overlaps the green, leaving differently-sized pointed spots to the view, along with two yellow bracers on its ankles. Its arms and legs each have four black claws, and black pupils shine within its white eyes. It lets out a deep cry as it is fully revealed, along with a large stream of fire from its mouth and its two cannons (FIRE, Dinosaur, 2300 ATK, 1500 DEF, LVL 6).
"Well," Michael comments with a frown, "I should have seen that coming. Scavengers usually do come to places where others have been killed." Maxx frowns back at him as she hears this, but she doesn't comment further.
"However," he continues with a grin, "the Kelolon have ways to deal with threats bigger than themselves. Luckily for me, I also know how to call a bluff. I activate my Set Spell Card: Kelolon's Final Directive!"
The card shows a large, shadow-infused Kelolon gesturing to a frightened Goblin Attack Force. A Warrior Kelolon jumps towards the Force, its entire body glowing with dark energy. Another of the seven points light up as the Spell activates (Wish Counters: 3), Kelolon Warrior glowing with a black aura; Maxx looks on with a small frown and clenched fists.
"This Spell requires me to Tribute one Kelolon Monster I control," Michael explains as the Warrior starts to levitate off the ground, its fists tightly clenched. "But, the benefit is that I can destroy one card you control! Go, Warrior; destroy her Jurrac Hera and make your Commander proud!"
Warrior lets out a high-pitched scream as it flies towards the twin-cannon dinosaur, a stream of black fire following in its path. Herra tries to blast the Kelolon out of the sky with a few shots of its cannons, but Warrior punches each one into pixels with its now-burning fists before they can strike him. When the two collide, the audience shields their eyes from a large cloud of black fire that engulfs most of Maxx's field. When the cloud dissipates, Maxx stumbles for a moment before she regains her senses, but is otherwise unharmed, save for the lack of any Monsters on her field.
"I'll end my turn with no further cards," Michael says once he sees that Maxx is still standing. "So, have I beaten back the trouble you brought?"
"Neither Duelist is backing down!" the MC shouts into his mic as Maxx takes a confident stance as her response to Michael's comment. "Michael's cleared up a space for his cards, and he's currently the only one of the two with Monsters on the field. What will Maxx do now?"
"Well," Maxx responds with a flick of her head, "I'll draw my card, first!"
[TURN 4: Maxx] [CARDS IN HAND: 4]
"This… isn't what I was wanting," Maxx comments with a raised eyebrow after taking a moment to check her new card, "but it'll have to do." The ground rumbles slightly as Maxx's Trap lingers in play (Standby Phases: 1).
"I Set one Monster in Defense Mode," Maxx continues, "and one card in my back row. You're up!"
[CARDS IN HAND (Maxx): 2]
"My turn," Michael announces as he draws. After he looks at his new card, he smirks and says, "Time to show you some of my aggression!"
[ROUND 3] [Maxx: 3700 LP/Michael: 3800 LP]
[TURN 5: Michael] [CARDS IN HAND: 3]
"I Normal Summon Kelolon Soldier in Attack Mode!" Another column of water comes up between Diamond and Sentry, revealing a Kelolon wielding a spear in one hand, and a wooden shield in the other. A few notches are visible in its metal helmet, its position a bit more refined than the Warrior's was as it slams its spear against its shield, attempting to intimidate the opponent (WATER, Aqua/Beast-Warrior, 900 ATK/900 DEF, LVL 3).
[CARDS IN HAND (Michael): 2]
"Soldier's effect activates!" Michael calls as his Deck holder spits out a card for him to take. "One Leading Many! When Soldier is Normal Summoned, another copy of him is added from my Deck to my hand." Michael reveals the card after he says this; Maxx quickly nods to confirm that it is the right card.
[CARDS IN HAND (Michael): 3]
"Now," Michael says with wide eyes, "the fun can begin! I switch Kelolon Sentry to Attack Mode, and activate the Spell Greater Marsh Tactics! This gives two Monsters I control 800 Attack Points this turn, as well as the ability to inflict Piercing Damage through your defenses. Soldier, Diamond, power up!"
[CARDS IN HAND (Michael): 2]
One more point lights up on Michael's field as the Sentry stands upright (Wish Counters: 4); the new Spell shows the image of Diamond Kelolon holding Alexandrite Dragon back while Kelolon Commander is mid-leap towards the dragon with a drawn sword. The pictured moment takes place in a dimly-lit swamp, the dragon looking a little out of place. Soldier and Diamond glow bright green as their strength spikes (ATK (Diamond): 2000-2800) (ATK (Soldier): 900-1700).
"Let's move, troops," Michael says with a wave of his hand. "Soldier leads the charge with Practiced Slash!" The spear-wielding Kelolon charges forward, its body shining green with the spear held high. The Set Monster reveals itself as a small red, green, and purple Staurikosaurus, its body curled into a defensive posture as three small streams of fire emerge from three large red claw marks on its back. It lets out a small cry as its yellow eyes stare at the oncoming weapon, and its body easily breaks into pixels upon impact (DEF: 400). Soldier then looks up at Maxx and boldly bashes its shield against her knee, racing back to Michael's field as the musician clutches her leg with a hiss (Maxx: 3700 LP-2400 LP).
"Ooh," the MC comments with a wince. "That's got to hurt, Solid Vision or not!" The audience laughs with the MC before looking on in surprise at two small balls of fire that appear where Stauriko once stood. In addition, Jurrac Herra reappears in a column of fire just as Maxx stands back upright (ATK: 2300).
"Herra's Prideful Arrival triggers in a Chain Link since Jurrac Stauriko was destroyed in Defense Mode," Maxx explains. "Stauriko's own ability, Lingering Blaze, also triggers; since it was destroyed in Battle, I get two Jurrac Tokens in Defense Mode. You see," she then says with a quick wink toward Michael, "armies aren't the only way to make one lead to many." The flames flicker as Maxx gestures to them, with Herra adding in a roar (FIRE, Dinosaur, 0 ATK/0 DEF, LVL 1).
"Glad to see you're not backing down," Michael comments with a smile of his own. "However, your Tokens are easy prey for Diamond Kelolon to take out and win me the Duel. Go, Reflection Punch!" The shining Kelolon charges towards one of the balls of fire, but it doesn't get far before Herra steps in its path just as Maxx's Set card reveals itself.
"Herra'll take the hit once I activate the Trap Card, Shift!" Maxx says. The revealed card shows a purple-skinned fiend with golden scales on its shoulders and upper legs, green eyes and fangs shifting places on a rocky field with a silver-armored knight. Purple and yellow arrows mark the switch, the fiend standing in the front with its arms outstretched. Arrows of the same color show the Jurrac Token now in Herra's previous position.
"This Trap lets me switch the target of your attack, or a Spell or Trap effect that targets one Monster I control, to one other face-up Monster I've got. Looks like I'll still be alive, after all!" Herra fires several shots at close range into Diamond's crystal body, but the Kelolon manages to slam its glowing fist into Herra's face. The dinosaur explodes into pixels, Maxx stepping back and shielding her face with her arms as a small shockwave passes through her (Maxx: 2400-1900 LP).
"Sentry," Michael calls out to the last Kelolon on his field. "It's your time to shine. Attack one of the Jurrac Tokens with Careful Shot!" Sentry nods back, and then raises its bow while drawing back the arrow. After a moment to calculate the shot, Sentry releases the projectile; it easily pierces the ball of fire, which flares once before it explodes.
Maxx instantly calls out, "Prideful Arrival!" as Jurrac Herra, once again, reappears on her field, its roar sounding angrier than before even as the audience starts to cheer for its apparent immortality (ATK: 2300).
"Geez," Michael says as he sees Herra stand before Maxx once again. "I just can't get a break with your Monsters, can I? Then again," he continues while briefly wiping his nose, "a commander always likes a challenge in their battles, and you are certainly providing a challenge for me."
"Glad to hear it," Maxx replies with a smile. "Your army is certainly proving its namesake, as well. What else have you got?" Michael pauses as he looks over his hand, and then he smiles wider than ever before.
"I'd say it's time I set my defenses," he says after a moment. "This isn't the best of options, but it'll have to do. I Tune my Level 2 Kelolon Sentry with my Level 6 Diamond Kelolon. Soldiers, your Commander orders you to combine your powers!"
The two Monsters obey; Soldier stands to one side as Sentry turns into two green rings that overlap Diamond as it turns into six white stars. Green energy flows through the rings as Michael utters a chant with a raised fist.
"Issho ni, guntai subete no kunan ni taeru koto ga deki masu. Kelolon no bougyo ryokuwo sanshoushite kudasai! Shinkuro Shoukan! Gunwo hogo, Daiyamando Kelolon!"
(Together, an army can endure all hardships. See the Kelolon's defensive power! Synchro Summon! Shield the troops, Adamantine Kelolon!)
The Synchro Rings dissipate as a golden Kelolon that stands equal to Michael's height appears on his field. This Kelolon's body shines in the sunlight, the shield, sword and helmet it holds and wears just as golden as itself. Even its eyes have a golden glint as it twirls its sword before bashing it twice on its shield. It then kneels and puts its shield in front of itself while turning a shade of blue to show that it is in Defense Mode (EARTH, Aqua/Synchro, 1500 ATK/3800 DEF, LVL 8).
"Adamantine's ability," Michael announces as the Synchro spreads a blue aura across his field. "Empowered Defense! All Level 5 or lower Kelolon Monsters I control gain 250 Defense for each Kelolon I control!" Soldier's body glows a light blue as his Defense increases, but Adamantine's remains the same (DEF (Soldier): 900-1400).
"That doesn't look like it'll change too much," Maxx quickly notes with a raised eyebrow. "You've still got a weak Monster in Attack Mode, and I can say Herra's looking pretty hungry." Herra accentuates these words with a small stream of fire from its mouth.
"Unfortunately," Michael says after a moment, "all I can do is end my turn." Maxx quickly draws her card, noting it with a quick glance before looking over her hand. Kelolon Soldier's aura fades away as the seconds pass (ATK (Soldier): 1700-900).
[TURN 6: Maxx] [CARDS IN HAND: 3]
"Let's see how this goes," Maxx says as she takes a card from her hand, the ground starting to rumble slightly (Standby Phases: 2). "I activate the Spell Big Evolution Pill! This'll stay in play for 3 of your turns, and I can–"
"I'm not letting that stay in play," Michael calls out as his Set card flips face-up, showing Kelolon Commander angrily waving a piece of paper at a pair of Warrior Kelolon's faces. "Quick-Play Magic, activate: False Report! This negates any effects that Spell had, but it still successfully activates. That means Wish Upon a Star gains two more Wish Counters!" Two more points on Michael's field light up (Wish Counters: 6) as Maxx's Spell, which shows a group of dinosaurs surrounding three glowing purple and blue pills, vanishes from the field.
[CARDS IN HAND (Maxx): 2]
"Well," Maxx says with a huff, "there goes my main strategy. However, I've still got something up my sleeve. Jurrac Herra attacks Kelolon Soldier; Dino Firepower!" Herra roars as it towers over the now-shaking Soldier and aims its cannons at the Kelolon. Two spheres of fire grow within the barrels, and are shot along with a burst of fire from Herra's mouth. The Kelolon's shield breaks under the blasts, and the fire burns its body away. Michael jumps to the side as the flames lick at his coat, but the Solid Vision leaves no actual burn marks (Michael: 3800-2400 LP).
"I'm kind of in the same situation as you, 'Commander'," Maxx comments with a smirk as she uses Michael's apparent tag name. "I can't make any other plays right now, so it's your turn."
"It looks like the Duelists are at a stalemate," the MC comments as he leans forwards with his microphone in hand. "Both are relying on the luck of the draw. Which one will get what they need first?"
"The Kelolon Army never gives up," Michael declares as he draws his card. "My turn!" He looks at his hand, and smiles as an apparent plan comes to mind.
[ROUND 4] [Maxx: 1900 LP/Michael: 2400 LP]
[TURN 7: Michael] [CARDS IN HAND: 3]
"Don't be too upset," the mechanic comments to the audience, "but, my Synchro is no longer needed to protect me. It's time to end this! I Tribute Admantine Kelolon to Advance Summon Golden Kelolon Captain!"
The golden Synchro shrinks down to a slightly smaller golden Kelolon, but the new Monster's gold is slightly duller and its helmet is silver against its golden body and weapons. It lets out a short croak as it points its sword at Maxx in challenge (WATER, Aqua/Beast-Warrior, 1900 ATK/1600 DEF, LVL 5).
"Now, I activate the Equip Spell Swamp Armory! Wish Upon a Star activates with 7 Wish Counters; by removing them all, I can Special Summon any Monster from my Graveyard! Return to the front lines, Diamond Kelolon!" Michael's field starts glowing a bright white as all the points brightly shine, to the point that Maxx and the audience have to shield their eyes. When they look again, the shiny Kelolon is back in play (ATK: 2000).
"Swamp Armory gives the Equipped Monster 700 Attack and 500 Defense," Michael explains as Golden Kelolon Captain suddenly gains a brown and green suit of thick hide, along with a polished coating to its sword and shield (ATK/DEF: 1900-2600/1600-2100). "What's more, Captain's Inspiring Presence ability gives all other Kelolon I control 600 extra Attack and Defense Points. This Duel is over!" Maxx steps back with widening eyes as Diamond Kelolon gains a golden aura from the Captain and powers up (ATK/DEF: 2000-2600/400-1000).
"Soldiers!" Michael calls out with a sweep of his hand. "It's time to execute the final attacks! Diamond, lead the charge and take down Jurrac Herra once and for all; Reflection Punch!"
The two Monsters glare at one another as Diamond charges forwards with a shining fist. Herra braces itself before firing several cannon blasts one after another at its foe; the impacts chip Diamond's body in a few places, but the Kelolon is still able to get within striking distance and deal it an uppercut worthy of a boxer's finishing move.
Maxx braces herself against the ensuing shockwave before looking at the Captain with wide eyes and the words, "Ah, hell," (Maxx: 1900-1600 LP).
"Captain," Michael commands, "let's give our opponent a worthy defeat. Attack Maxx directly with Heroic Slash!" The golden Kelolon grunts as it raises its sword and charges towards the Jurrac Duelist. Maxx raises her Duel Disk to try to block the sharpened weapon; the Solid Vision system registers this with a loud grinding noise as it recognizes the impact. Maxx grits her teeth as she actually holds her ground for a few seconds, but the Captain soon overpowers her and knocks her prone with a quick shield bash to her face (Maxx: 1600-0 LP) [DUEL ENDS].
"Michael claims the win over Maxx's Jurrac with his Kelolon army! What a Duel!" the MC announces as the crowd adds in their appreciation through loud cheers. Michael quickly walks over to Maxx's position as the Solid Vision turns off and offers her a hand; she clasps it with a smile and a slight blush.
"Be glad I didn't get the chance to unleash Titano or Meteor on your ass," the rockstar comments as she stands up with Michael's help. "Then, you'd have really been sunk."
"I don't doubt it," the mechanic replies with his usual smirk. "In fact, I have bigger things that I could have Summoned, myself, but we both put up good fights with what we had. Isn't that enough of a success?" Maxx just laughs in agreement as she gives Michael's back a good thump, the mechanic staggering slightly under the force. The crowd applauds their apparent friendship as they move back to their platforms and descend below the arena floor…
[Samuel's P.O.V.]
"Woo," I say with a long sigh as I stretch out my back on the couch. "That was a good match. The best part of it was that no one died during it!" Yusei and Bommer both laugh dryly at my comment, both of them getting the apparent message.
"I've never heard of those 'Kelolon' Michael uses," Yusei then comments with his previous stoic expression. "Are they a new archetype or something?" I shrug my shoulders in response while Bommer shakes his head to indicate that he also doesn't know.
"Come to think of it," Bommer then says with a thoughtful glimmer in his eyes, "I know of a government official working for Godwin with the last name of 'Palus'; I believe his first name is Arias, the Director of Education. However, I don't think he ever publicly mentioned having a son."
"You think he wanted to keep his son's identity a secret from the public?" This question comes from Yusei, who beats me to the punch with the same thought pattern.
"I can't say," the Reactor Duelist replies. "I don't know much about Arias, other than his name and his position. If he wanted to keep Michael a secret, he's failed horribly by letting him come here."
Is Michael even this 'Aria's' son at all? I muse.He could just be using the name as a proxy, or this could be all be a wild coincidence of identities. But, he doesn't seem like the type who'd openly lie; maybe he's–
"Everybody, listen!" the MC suddenly calls from the screen, interrupting my train of thought. "Big news! We have just received a special proposition from Director Godwin. All those who lost in the first round, listen closely, because Godwin is offering you a second chance in the Fortune Cup. There will be two consolation matches to advance to the second round!"
The audience 'ooh's' in surprise as holographic screens of the six defeated Duelists this round appear above the main arena stage. I understand their surprise, but I am not as excited as they are that more Dueling will happen today.
Consolation matches? The words leave a bad taste in my mouth, even though I didn't say them. I didn't think Godwin would offer this type of compensation for losers, especially considering how dangerous most of the Duels in this round have been. I suspect the audience would feel better if they were allowed to go home and recover from what they've seen here.
"Now," the MC says after the audience takes in the sight before them, "it's time to announce the two Duelists for the matches! Only these Duelists will be given the chance to advance, so they'll certainly be giving their all! The first of Fortune's chosen Duelists, placed in the second consolation match; just recently defeated by contestant Michael Palus in a high-stakes Duel, but able to fight viciously with her 'Jurrac' dinosaurs, it's Maxx, the Maximum Punk Rocker!" A screenshot of Maxx appears across the Stadium as the MC finishes; the audience seconds this decision with a great many cheers.
"Her opponent," the MC continues over the crowd. "Defeated in a spectacular combo play by Satellite Duelist Yusei Fudo, it's the self-proclaimed 'King of Speed', Mukuro Enjo!" The crowd's excitement grows stronger as they see Mukuro's photo alongside Maxx's.
"Now for the first match! The first Duelist; regretfully defeated by contestant Bommer, a Dueling prodigy at age eleven and having earned Godwin's attention for her skills, Ms. Ruka-chan!" The audience cheers again as, to my surprise, a spotlight shines down on a specific seat in the audience. The true Ruka is illuminated to the crowd, her shocked image reflecting my own shock for their scheme being foiled after having worked so well.
"That's the genuine Ruka, right?" I whip my head over to Bommer as he looks at the screen with a small smirk before turning to face Yusei and me. "Her twin was pretty good at Dueling; I'm really curious to see how the genuine article handles herself."
"I'll assume you didn't have a hand in making this happen," I state to Bommer while trying to keep my anger down.
Bommer shakes his head and says, "It was Vice-Director Yaeger who figured their plan out; he informed me of it just after our Duel had ended." I nod quickly, satisfied with his answer as I turn back to see Ruka's worried face on the screen.
The twin turns towards Rua, who is seated next to her and hidden in darkness; and the two exchange a few brief sentences as the crowd begins to chant Ruka's name. Ruka then takes a deep breath, cradles her Duel Disk in her arms as she stands up, and begins to walk down an adjacent set of stairs towards the arena. The crowd cheers her on, but her expression is nervous as the spotlight remains trained on her as she walks.
"Now, her opponent," the MC announces after Ruka is at the arena with her Duel Disk on her arm. "Beaten by the spectacular workings of the 'Netrunner' and its 'Collective' of futuristic cards, it's the 'Dueling Counselor', Professor Frank!"
An explosion of smoke from opposite Ruka at the arena melds in my ears with the sound of my fist pounding the couch's armrest. Yusei and Bommer jump in surprise before looking at me; my teeth clench as the impact's pain mixes with my anger.
"Why is he getting a second chance?" I snarl with shaking hands. "I'd have preferred that DeLancebeaux knight over him!"
"What's got you so worked up?" Yusei comments with a glance my way. "You weren't Dueling him for most of your match, you know."
"The Superiors let me see everything that happened while they had control the moment they gave it back to me," I quickly reply. "That man hypnotized me for his 'tests', and I think he's going to do the same to Ruka!"
"Well," Bommer says with a huff, "we'll just have to see what happens; you can't go out there and interfere with the Duel unless you want to get disqualified."
I glare at him, instinctively rising out of my seat before Yusei grips my arm with the words, "Don't, Samuel." I sit back down with burning cheeks and stare at the ground while taking a few deep breaths to calm myself down.
I purposefully ignore Frank's greetings to Ruka as I look back to the screen; I don't believe that that man is acting sincere, but I can't stop him from doing what he plans to do. The best option, then, is to observe and hope that Ruka will be safe.
[WE SECOND THIS CHOICE]
I blink at what the words in my mind say; I don't think they ever simply agreed with whatever I thought before. It's probably not too important, so I disregard it just as the MC calls for the match to begin. Ruka and Frank are both at the ready, Ruka looking a bit more confident while Frank has the same smile that he had when I Dueled him.
"DUEL!"
Well, that's all for now. Please comment, constructively criticize, and suggest ideas as you please. Also, please give any comments about Michael Z. Palus to 'Myydraal' for their efforts.
The next chapter will come out at some point. I cannot say a date at the time this chapter is posted; there's too many things going on for me right now, so I need to shift back from this story for a time. I'm sorry, but that's how I've decided things to be. I'll come back, though, when I feel I can be confident in what I post here will be posted at a regular schedule, or if I feel it's good enough for you all to see.
Draconos is taking off!