Greetings, community. With this chapter, the Fusion Dimension arc officially begins. First though, let me respond to your reviews.
—To Guest (1): The thing about Gloria is an interesting idea that I wish I had thought of a bit sooner, but it's somewhat late to implement it now.
—To Guest (2): Yes, Chaos Karma will have a final form, as will the other four dimension dragons.
Now, without further ado, on with the story!
Chapter 37 – The Vengeful Dragon Slayer
At the Standard Dimension…
"How curious…"
Inside the top floor of LDS Tower, where the President's office was situated, Akaba Reiji was staring at the screen of his computer with an intense expression while he muttered so. Across him, Sora was relaxing on the luxurious sofa while licking a lollipop with a content expression on his face. Upon hearing the grey-haired youth's words however, Sora turned to him with an inquisitive expression on his face.
"What's wrong, Akaba Reiji? Did you finally manage to discover anything in Leo Corporation's database regarding the Professor's plan?"
"Only bits and pieces I'm afraid." Reiji said as he turned the computer towards Sora. "My father made sure to delete most of his research and personal files right before disappearing, so I was unable to salvage anything of value regarding this Arc Area Project of his. However, I did come across something interesting that he overlooked."
With his curiosity piqued, Sora approached the computer and was surprising upon seeing the familiar people depicted on the screen.
"This is…a younger Serena and…Yuri?" Sora frowned. "What's the meaning of this?"
"I'm not certain." Reiji said as he leaned back on his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Apparently, they and the rest of their counterparts in the Four Dimensions are supposed to play a key role in a plan my father simply refers to as Revival Zero. It's most likely connected to the Arc Area Project, but there are no further details regarding this within the remaining files."
"Then this means…Yuya, Yukio and Yuzu are also supposed to play a major role in the Professor's plan?" Sora wondered. "But why? Apart from having the same face, what's so special about them? Is there perhaps some sort of hidden power or something within them that will enable the Professor to unite the dimensions?"
"I wonder…" Reiji rubbed his chin. "I always found their situation odd for more reasons than one. Yuya and Yukio's capacity to evolve was simply astounding, progressing much faster than regular Duelists while pulling out the full power of Pendulum. Despite our understanding of Pendulum Summoning and our technological might, Leo Corporation is still incapable of creating stable Fusion-Pendulum, Synchro-Pendulum, Ritual-Pendulum or Xyz-Pendulum Monsters. And yet, these two were able to create such Monsters seemingly out of nowhere with ease. I even gave Yukio one of our unstable prototypes, Sorcerer King Solomon, to test his strength and he was able to use it as a fully functioning card much to my surprise. From that, I can only infer that these five youths hide some extraordinary power within them that my father covets…or fears."
"That makes sense I guess…" Sora murmured, but then frowned. "Wait a minute here. You said Leo Corporation was unable to grant the power of Pendulum to Extra Deck Monsters and Ritual Monsters, right? In that case, how come Serena has Fusion-Pendulum Monsters in her Extra Deck? Did she also generate them by herself like Yuya and Yukio?"
"No, these were made by Leo Corporation, albeit in a different manner compared to the other Pendulum cards we created." Reiji began explaining. "Having detected some strange energy readings coming from Serena's bracelet, we discreetly examined it without her knowledge and found out that it possesses a significant amount of natural energy. Since I was curious about it, I collected a sample of energy from it and experimented with it after finding out that it had good compatibility with Duel Monster cards. So imagine my surprise when I found out that the collected energy was capable of stabilizing the experimental Fusion-Pendulum Moonlight Monsters I made for Serena. I tried this with other Pendulum hybrids as well, but it was incapable of producing the same result for some reason. Maybe it only reacted to Serena's Monsters due to them being in such close proximity with the bracelet for all this time."
"The bracelet she wears has such power…?" Sora sounded astonished. "Then, since Yuzu and probably the other two also have similar bracelets, you think that's the reason the Professor is targeting them?"
"That's the only conclusion I can arrive with the data available to us." Reiji said. "These bracelets must contain some sort of power that my father requires to complete the Arc Area Project. And if that's the case, then it's imperative that we, the Lancers, do our utmost to protect them and their bearers from his clutches. As such, Tsukikage, Reira, me, you and our volunteer from the Synchro Dimension, Crow, will now set out for the Fusion Dimension in order to put an end to this Arc Area Project once and for all."
"We're heading out, you say? But what about Yuya, Yukio and the others?" Sora asked in an agitated manner. "You still haven't discovered their whereabouts after we were separated in the Synchro Dimension, right? Don't tell me you're planning to abandon them in order to focus on settling your vendetta with your father!?"
"Of course not." Reiji replied with an even tone. "No matter what, I will never abandon those who have placed their trust in me. The reason we're moving out is because the situation has changed. Yuya, Yukio, Gongenzaka and Sawatari are currently in the Fusion Dimension. Therefore, we should also head out as soon as possible in order to join with them and begin our final assault on Academia."
"These guys are in the Fusion Dimension?" Sora opened his eyes wide. "How do you know this, Akaba Reiji?"
"Simple really." Reiji let out a sly smile. "I have installed tracking devices in the Duel Disks of every single member of the Lancers. How else would I be able to keep track of them in case we were separated like now? While I was unable to determine their location up until a few days ago, I finally managed to track them down in Heartland, and shortly afterwards, to the Fusion Dimension."
"You've really thought of everything, huh?" Sora smirked. "As expected of the Professor's son, you're quite resourceful."
"Since the vanguard has headed out, we cannot idle here any longer." Reiji declared as he stood up. "The rest of the Lancers will immediately head to the Fusion Dimension. It's about time we put an end to my father's little fascist regime and this irrational war along with it."
At the Fusion Dimension's You Show School branch…
A tense atmosphere permeated the headquarters of You Show Duel School as its students confronted the Academia agents led by Dennis and Nightshroud. Due to how explosive the current situation was, neither side seemed willing to make the first move for the time being. However, the delicate balance was broken as Yusho moved forward while leaning on his cane.
"Sensei! What are you doing!?"
"Get back here, Sensei! Fighting in your condition is too reckless!"
Ignoring the concerned cries of his students, Yusho merely smiled as he spread his arms wide.
"Welcome, students of Academia. My deepest apologies for not receiving you properly, but your sudden visit caught us by surprise. I do hope that our meager quarters will suffice while accommodating you. And since you gentlemen took the trouble to come here, what say you we enjoy ourselves with a nice Entertainment Duel to pass the time?"
"I'm afraid I have to decline your invitation, Sakaki Yusho-san." Nightshroud replied. "We don't have time to waste on your childish games. The only reason we came here is to harvest the miserable lives of those who turned their back on Academia and retrieve the final piece the Professor requires. Whether we'll do this painlessly or not, that's entirely up to you. Since none of you stand a chance against me, I advise you to surrender peacefully."
"Cocky bastard!" Yugo exploded, shaking his fist at the black-clothed Duelist in a furious manner. "If you think you are so strong, come at me! I'll take you down in a flash! And after that, I'll force Rin's whereabouts out of you!"
"You're still chasing after Rin?" Dennis shook his head in amazement. "You are one persistent fellow, Yugo-kun. However, like my partner here says, your journey ends here. And when Academia's Grim Reaper declares something, that's law, you know?"
"Then I'm afraid we'll have to break that law." Yusho said with a smile. "Neither me nor my students have any intention to back down until we fulfil our vow to end this senseless war that has brought so much misery to the dimensions. For that reason, I have to meet with Akaba Leo and convince him to put an end to this madness."
"Madness…you say?" Nightshroud glared at Yusho. "Ignorance truly is bliss, Sakaki Yusho-san. Very well then, let's settle this the hard way. I will pass the final judgement to you on behalf of Academia."
At Nightshroud's words, all Academia students present activated their Duel Disks, with the You Show students, Asuka, Yuzu and Yugo following suit. However, Yusho merely smirked.
"Didn't you hear me before? I'm not a fan of meaningless violence and mayhem. What's important above all is to have fun while Dueling. Unruly children who don't understand that—will receive a special lecture from this Sensei!"
Before anyone could react, Yusho pressed a button on his Duel Disk. Immediately afterwards, particles of light enveloped the interior of the building as it began glowing.
"Damn! This is—!"
Dennis attempted to run towards Yusho, but found his path blocked by a wall that suddenly rose from the ground. Shortly afterwards, the area transformed into a scene straight out of an old RPG game as the Academia agents found themselves trapped inside a large labyrinth-shaped structure.
"Action Field, Fantasy Quest." Yusho's voice echoed throughout the labyrinth. "I took the liberty of installing a Real Solid Vision generator when You Show claimed this building for training purposes. Honestly, I never thought the day would come when we would use it as deterrent against invaders… Everyone from Academia's side, I hope you'll have fun exploring this labyrinth filled with romance and adventure. As for me and my students, you'll have to excuse us as we take our leave. My business with Akaba Leo is quite urgent after all."
"He got us…" Dennis muttered with annoyance and some reluctant admiration in his tone. "Who would have thought there was such a trick set up in this place? Sensei sure is a cunning one. And thanks to this contraption, we're trapped here."
"I see. As expected of the renowned Sakaki Yusho whom even the Professor respects. However—that much won't be enough to stop me."
Following these words, a massive fireball was launched seemingly out of nowhere, destroying the wall next to Dennis and forcing him to scurry out of the way to avoid being burned to a crisp. Turning his gaze towards the direction from where the fireball was launched, Dennis saw Nightshroud standing there with a massive shadow with red eyes hovering behind him.
"If this is an Action Field, it stands to reason that we can summon Monsters with real mass inside it in order to destroy it." Nightshroud stated. "I don't have time for that man's foolish games. Everyone, summon your strongest Monsters and destroy this construct! After that, hunt down these lowlifes and show them what happens to everyone who dares to make a fool out of Academia!"
Every Academia member present, Dennis included, summoned their Monsters following Nightshroud's orders and had them slowly tear down the labyrinth. Upon hearing the sounds of destruction coming from behind him while running through the secret passage alongside everyone else, Yusho sighed.
"To think that they would result to such brutal methods without fear of compromising the structural integrity of the building and having it collapse on themselves… Should I call fiercely determined or completely insane here? In any case, I'm afraid they'll catch up to us sooner rather than later as things stand. It looks like a fight is unavoidable after all…"
"You shouldn't push yourself, Uncle." Yuzu said. "You're still convalescing from your injuries, aren't you? As such, you should aim to get to the harbor while avoiding combat as much as possible along with Asuka-san. The rest of us should split up and try to divide Academia's forces as much as possible. Since I'm one of their targets, I'll definitely be able to draw a sizeable number of them towards me. If all goes well, you'll be able to get to the harbor without much hassle."
"But…if you do this, you'll only be placing yourself in more danger, Yuzu." Yusho argued. "I don't really like the idea of you taking such a big risk."
"Don't lose sight of our goal." Yuzu countered. "What matters the most right now is getting you to Academia. If you truly are capable of reasoning with the Professor, then we might have a chance to put an end to this war. As such, you should leave this place to me and hurry to the cruise ship. And if you're worried about me, then don't be. I can handle myself just fine."
Yusho looked unconvinced, but at that moment, Yugo spoke.
"I'll also stay behind with her and make sure she remains safe. Yuzu is my friend after all, and I can't stand the thought of losing another friend to the likes of these bastards. Rest assured that if Academia wants to get to her, they'll have to go through me first!"
Yusho was silent for a few seconds, but then chuckled.
"Really now, you don't only look like Yuya, but you also sound like him… Very well, we shall go with your plan, Yuzu. But you absolutely can't be reckless, got it? Shuzo is going to roast me alive if he finds out I let his precious daughter get hurt."
"Right." Yuzu nodded. "Take care of Uncle, Asuka-san."
"You be careful as well, especially if you come across…Nightshroud." Asuka's voice trembled a bit at the end. "Don't underestimate his power, Yuzu. Among Academia's elites, only Kaiser Ryo ranks above him. It's best that you avoid confronting him altogether if possible."
"I understand." Yuzu said. "You be careful as well, Asuka-san."
After that brief conversation, Yuzu and Yugo split up from the main group along with a handful of students, entering a side tunnel.
"If I remember correctly, this should lead us to the garage where your D-Wheel is parked, Yugo." Yuzu said. "If the Academia students spot us moving around in it, they should divert some of their forces away from Uncle's location and pursue us instead."
"That idea sounds both dangerous and risky." Yugo let out a toothy grin. "Count me in on that. Leading Academia's forces around while they try in vain to catch us should be quite amusing to watch."
"As for us, we'll return to street level and try to attract the attention of as many Academia soldiers as possible as well." One of the students said with a resolute expression. "We sure as Hell won't let them lay even a finger on Yusho-sensei."
"Alright. However, don't be reckless, everyone. Uncle will be saddened if anything happens to any of you."
The You Show students nodded as they separated from the two youths, leaving Yuzu and Yugo alone as they ran through the stone passageway. Eventually, they arrived at a trapdoor that led them into a concealed garage, where Yugo's D-Wheel was currently parked.
"Hop on, Yuzu." Yugo pointed at the back of his D-Wheel's seat with a wide grin. "I'll let you experience the full extent of my driving technique today. We're going to have these bastards eat our dust!"
"Suddenly, I'm not too sure about this…" Yuzu nervously said as she recalled all the stunts Yugo had pulled while they were trying to escape Security in the Synchro Dimension. "Maybe I should just run around or something instead…"
"Nonsense! This isn't the time to be getting cold feet, Yuzu! Times like this, you just have to grit your teeth and move forward!"
"You have a point, although I still don't feel safe with your insane manner of driving…" Yuzu sighed and climbed on the D-Wheel as well. "Let's just do this before I change my mind."
"That's the spirit!" Yugo shouted as he revved up his D-Wheel. "Now, here I come, Academia!"
Upon saying so, Yugo dashed out of the garage at full speed, ignoring Yuzu's terrified cries as he weaved through the narrow speeds in a haphazard manner, barely avoiding crashing into walls. As he passed by several Academia students in his way, cries of recognition could be heard from several of them. Shortly afterwards, a number of vehicles appeared behind the D-Wheel and began pursuing the two youths.
"Yosh, it's all according to plan." Yugo said with a smirk. "Hang on, Yuzu! I'm going to go even faster from this point on! Come and get us if you can, you slowpokes!"
"Even faster, you say!? Give me a break!"
Yuzu's screams went unheard as Yugo sped forward with a maniacal grin on his face while Academia's forces were hot on his trail.
"As expected of Yugo-kun, he's acting in a crazy and unrefined manner as always." Dennis said while observing Yugo's movements from one of the vehicles pursuing him and Yuzu. After checking a map of the area on his Duel Disk, he opened a communications channel with the other vehicles. "Everyone, follow the directions I'm transmitting to you right now. We'll trap our quarry in the central plaza using this plan and seize them."
[Acknowledged.]
[Understood.]
[Affirmative.]
Upon receiving confirmation from the other three vehicles, Dennis turned to his two co-passengers.
"My apologies for having you two participate in a hunt unrelated to your personal objectives." Dennis said. "However, I'm afraid the Professor was quite adamant about putting you to use during this operation. We are a bit understaffed after the fiasco at the Xyz Dimension after all."
"It doesn't matter to me." One of the two youths responded. "As long as I get to fight Sakaki Yuya once again and defeat him when he inevitably arrives here, I'll be your pawn for as long as needed."
The other youth remained silent. However, one could feel hatred similar to that of the first youth's emanating from his body as he simply stared ahead.
"In that case, it will be a pleasure working with you, gentlemen." Dennis smirked. "I'll be counting on you to deal with any unforeseen circumstances along the way, and I'll also be looking forward to your performance."
Meanwhile, in another area of the port town…
In an abandoned alley, a bright blue light suddenly appeared out of nowhere. Once it died down, seven figures could be seen standing on the previous empty street.
"It seems we've arrived. So this…is the Fusion Dimension…"
Yuya muttered as he looked around, with Kaito, Yukio, Gongenzaka and Sawatari following suit. Everyone seemed quite surprised at how normal the town seemed, expecting to encounter a heavily militarized fortress or something along these lines upon arriving.
"We don't have time to be gawking around like idiots." Gloria said. "It's only a matter of time before Academia's instruments detect our intrusion. And when that happens, this place will be swarmed by Academia's soldiers. We must quickly make our way to the harbor as discreetly as possible and secure a vessel that will be able to take us to Academia."
"I think it's a bit late for stealth, Gloria." Grace seemed troubled as she checked her Duel Disk. "There appear to be a considerable amount of Academia troops present here at the moment for some reason. Could they have been expecting us to arrive today?"
"That doesn't seem likely to me judging from the movement of their forces." Kaito said as he checked the screen of Grace's Duel Disk. "If they were after us, they would be converging on our position as we speak. Instead, the bulk of their forces appear to have separated into two large groups, with one heading for the plaza not too far from here, while the other seems to be breaking up into smaller ones for some reason while trying to head to the harbor. I would say they're probably hunting for something."
"Something…or someone, I wonder?" Yukio looked at Yuya, who seemed to have arrived at the same conclusion. "Are you thinking what I'm thinking, Yuya?"
"Yuzu." Yuya said with a grim expression on his face. "They're after Yuzu. I just know they are."
"If Yuzu truly is here, then we must waste no time in assisting her." Gongenzaka said. "We cannot allow her to fall into Academia's hands. But if she is pursued by Academia's forces, where could she be heading?"
"Why don't we try heading for the plaza as well?" Kaito suggested. "Since a large number of Academia's troops are heading there, it stands to reason that your friend is most likely to be somewhere around that area as well."
"I suppose that makes sense." Sawatari grinned as he punched his palm. "In that case, let's go kick some Academia butt! They'll rue the day they messed with the Lancers, the most elite Dueling force there is!"
"In that case, Grace and I will head to the harbor in order to secure a ship that will able to transport us to Academia." Gloria said. "Let's go, Grace."
"But I want to see Yuya's Entertainment Duel again!" Grace complained like a child throwing a tantrum. "That's not fair, Gloria! Let me stay behind too!"
"For the love of…just get a move on, Grace! We have a job to do!"
Gloria grabbed her sister's hand and started dragging the struggling Grace away much to the amusement of the five youths watching this scene.
"Alright, let's move as well." Yukio said. "The sooner we locate Yuzu and get out of this place, the better. I wouldn't put it past Academia to send an entire army against us if they find out we're smack dab in the middle of their home turf."
Everybody nodded and started running as fast as they could, making sure to avoid crowded areas as much as possible. After a few minutes, they reached the plaza, only to be surprised as a bright pink light was emitted from it. Upon approaching closer, they saw Yuzu standing alone in the middle of the square, surrounded by three vehicles filled with Academia students.
"Yuzu!"
Yuya's shout attracted everyone's attention as the girl in question turned her sight towards the five youths running towards her. An expression of relief and joy appeared on her face as she realized that her friends had arrived.
"Yuya! Everyone!"
"Yuzu! I'm so glad you're alright!"
Yuya attempted to approach Yuzu, but was suddenly tackled by a familiar purple-haired youth, with the force of his charge sending them both tumbling to the ground. The youth held Yuya down as he glared at him.
"Do you remember me?" He asked Yuya. "Because I sure haven't forgotten about you. I've been waiting for this for a long time, Sakaki Yuya!"
"You're…Kachidoki Isao!?" Yuya exclaimed at the unexpected reappearance of the opponent he had defeated during the Maiami Championship. "Why are you here!?"
"Ever since I lost to you and disgraced the good name of Ryozanpaku, it felt like I was trapped in a bottomless pit of darkness, out of which there was no escape." Kachidoki responded with evident hostility. "That's why I accepted the clown's invitation and came here in order to have my revenge. Once I defeat you, I'll finally be able to escape from the darkness and rise up once again!"
"Clown? Is that any way to talk about your benefactor, Kachidoki?" Dennis, who was standing on top of one of the vehicles, shook his head in an exasperated manner. "In any case, I'll leave Yuya to you."
"Dennis!" Gongenzaka bellowed. "How dare you show your face before us again, you traitor!?"
"Oh, if it isn't Gon-chan." Dennis waved at the burly youth. "My, it sure has been a while. Are you doing alright?"
"Why you…" Gongenzaka growled. "Not only were you involved in the kidnapping of Kurosaki's sister, Ruri, you're now trying to take Yuzu away as well!? That's unforgivable! I, the man Gongenzaka, will absolutely not allow your evil ploy to succeed! You will pay dearly for your actions!"
"What the big guy said." Yukio narrowed his eyes at Dennis. "Moreover, I'll have you tell me where Serena is. And you'd better give me an answer in the next five seconds, or else I'll use you to demonstrate my newest trick; how to make an entertainer disappear using only a pencil and a table."
"Since that sounds a bit scary, I'm afraid I'll have to pass on that, Yukio." Dennis smirked. "Now then, since I have more important business to attend to, feel free to play with these fellows in the meantime."
Following these words, Dennis snapped his fingers, with a large number of Academia students surrounding the area in response. Yukio, Sawatari, Gongenzaka, Kaito and Yuzu grimaced in response and prepared their Duel Disks. Immediately afterwards, Dennis performed a somersault and dashed off towards the harbor.
"Oi, wait!" Sawatari shouted. "Don't run away, you coward!"
As the Academia students approached them, Kaito run forward and jumped over them with several graceful maneuvers. At the same time, Yukio activated the Duel Anchor of his Duel Disk and soared over the Academia students, landing next to Kaito.
"Leave Dennis to us!" Yukio shouted to the rest of the Lancers as he and Kaito started running. "You do something about the situation here!"
"Hey, don't decide things by yourselves, Tachibana, Kaito!" Sawatari complained. "Damn, you guys truly are…"
Yukio and Kaito quickly left the site of the battle behind them as they chased after the retreating figure of Dennis. Although surprised by their former comrade's speed, Yukio was certain they'd catch up to him soon enough. However, at that moment—
"Found you, Tachibana Yukio!"
An armored figure suddenly appeared from a side street, swinging his sword at Yukio. Driven by instinct, Yukio quickly activated his Duel Disk and clashed its blade against his opponent's sword, producing a large number of sparks.
"Yukio!"
Upon taking note of the fact that his comrade had been attacked, Kaito sharply turned on his heels and attempted to rush to his aid. However, a semi-transparent Real Solid Vision wall suddenly materialized in front of him, halting his progress.
"Sorry, but I won't let you interrupt us." The armored man declared as he struggled to overpower Yukio. "This…is personal. Wouldn't you agree, o Wicked Dragon?"
"That condescending tone and attitude…" A flash of recognition appeared on Yukio's eyes as he scrutinized the familiar face of his assailant. "Now I remember. You are…Ashley from the Knight of Duels, aren't you?"
"How very kind of you to remember me, Tachibana Yukio." A savage grin appeared on Ashley's face. "As for me, I haven't forgotten your face for even a second. How could I, especially after that shameful defeat you dealt me!?"
Ashley put even more strength on his blade in an attempt to strike Yukio's body. However, Yukio pressed a button on his Duel Disk, which caused a baton to extend from it that struck Ashely's shoulder. As the knight winced from the blow, Yukio seized the chance to overpower him and send him skidding backwards with a shoulder tackle.
"So, another former participant of the Maiami Championship shows up today. What's this, some sort of reunion party…?" Yukio remarked, and then turned to Kaito. "Why are you still here, Kaito? Go after Dennis and capture him. I'll deal with this fellow here in the meantime and join you later."
"You two seem to have some history together." Kaito said. "Can you handle him on your own?"
"Do I look concerned?" Yukio said with a smirk. "I've already beaten him once, and I will do so again if need be. You focus on dealing with Dennis."
"Alright. I'll leave this place to you then, Yukio."
Upon saying that, Kaito took his leave, running towards the direction Dennis was last seen heading. Meanwhile, Ashley was giving Yukio a nasty look.
"Such boundless confidence as always, you scum. However, don't think I'm the same Duelist you humiliated in the past. After joining hands with Academia, I made sure to make several improvements to my Deck in preparation for the day we would confront each other once again. This time, I will utterly crush you and make you grovel before me like the worm you are before I seal you into a card for the rest of eternity."
"Let me see if I got this straight." Yukio said with a hostile tone. "Both you and Kachidoki decided to become pawns of Academia, the very same organization whose members sealed fellow members of your respective Duel Schools into cards and is hell-bent on uniting the Four Dimensions no matter the cost, out of some misguided desire to exact revenge on Yuya and me respectively? Are you two idiots out of your mind? Even after seeing what they did when they invaded Standard, you still chose to follow them out of your own free will?"
"I'm not sure what Kachidoki is thinking, but I personally don't see anything wrong with it." Ashley responded in a nonchalant manner. "I had no attachment to my former Duel School or my classmates, who so callously tossed me, one of the chosen elites, aside after I lost my Duel to you, so I can't bring myself to care about the members of the Knight of Duels that were turned into cards. Moreover, the way I see it, Academia is going to be the winner of this interdimensional war, so joining the winning side and being a part of the upcoming new world order is the logical option here. And since I get to destroy with my own two hands as an added bonus, I really can't ask for anything more."
"…You really are a worthless piece of scum, you fake knight." Yukio spoke with a tone filled with contempt. "Then, as you wish, I will Duel you. But when I defeat you for the second time, I'll make sure you stay down this time."
"Just try it, you lowly Wicked Dragon." Ashley sneered as he activated his Duel Disk. "I will thoroughly enjoy watching you suffer."
"Then, let's begin!" Yukio exclaimed as he also activated his Duel Disk. "Action Field, on!"
[Field Spell, Cross Over, activated.]
The rudimentary Action Field comprised of several glowing platforms appeared around the two Duelists following the announcement coming from Yukio's Duel Disk.
[Duel!]
Both Duelists shouted together as the Action Cards spread across the field.
Yukio – LP: 4000
Ashley – LP: 4000
"I'll take the first turn." Ashley announced. "I activate the Spell Card Proof of Dragon Destruction. Through its effect, I can add a "Buster Blader" Monster from my Deck to my hand. Next, I summon Dragon Whelp of the Destruction Swordsman (Light/Dragon/Effect/Tuner/ATK: 400/DEF: 300/LV: 1)."
A small, white dragon with wings extending from its back appeared on Ashley's field.
"I activate Dragon Whelp's effect." Ashley declared. "When this card is Normal Summoned successfully, I can add a "Destruction Sword" card from my Deck to my hand. I choose Destruction Sword – Arms Buster Blade (Dark/Machine/Effect/ATK: 1600/DEF: 1200/LV: 4). Then, I activate Dragon Whelp's second effect. By releasing this card, I can Special Summon a "Buster Blader" Monster from my hand or Graveyard. Come from my hand, Buster Blader (Earth/Warrior/Effect/ATK: 2600/DEF: 2300/LV: 7)!"
An imposing armored warrior holding a large broadsword appeared on Ashley's field.
"Buster Blader, huh…?" Yukio murmured. "Talk about an old-school card. I see you switched from the Chaos Soldier archetype to the Buster Blader one, which mainly focuses on anti-Dragon tactics. However, don't tell me you believe a mere Buster Blader can take on my dragons, do you?"
"Of course not." Ashley said. "However, thanks to their extensive research on various Duel Monsters archetypes, Academia was able to come up with several upgrades to a large number of obsolete archetypes, including the Buster Blader one. I'll be sure to thoroughly demonstrate to you how utterly deadly its evolved power can be against any sort of opponent, especially someone like you, who favors Dragon-type Monsters. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. First, I activate the effect of Arms Buster Blade in my hand, equipping it to Buster Blader through it."
A small winged dragon carrying a hilt out of which an energy blade was emitted appeared on Ashley's field, giving the weapon to Buster Blader before disappearing.
"Finally, I place two cards face-down and end my turn." Ashley said. "Now, come at me, Tachibana Yukio. And make your move count, for you will experience the true extent of my newly acquired power in my next turn. I'll have you grovel at my feet before delivering the final blow on your miserable existence and prove once and for all that I am the superior one."
"I see your habit of spouting nonsense hasn't changed one bit, you sorry excuse for a knight." Yukio smirked. "I don't have time to waste on a small fry like you, so I'll try to make this as quick and painless as possible since I'm not an unhinged sadist like you. My turn! Draw! Using the Scale 1 White Wing Magician and the Scale 5 Wisdom-Eye Magician, I Set the Pendulum Scale!"
Two columns of light appeared next to Yukio's sides, with his Monsters rising to their top.
"I activate Wisdom-Eye Magician's Pendulum Effect." Yukio continued. "By destroying it, I can—"
"Not so fast." Ashley interrupted Yukio with a smirk. "Thanks to the effect of the equipped Arms Buster Blade, face-up Spell and Trap Cards on your side of the field cannot activate their effects. Now the Pendulum Effects of your Pendulum Monsters are useless!"
"Tch, is that Monster's effect part of the upgrades Academia made to the archetype?" Yukio clicked his tongue in irritation. "Even so, it's only a minor inconvenience for me. With my current Pendulum Scale, I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 2 through 4. Guided by destiny's hand, cross the walls of space and time and manifest a new possibility! Pendulum Summon! Come to my side, Double Magician (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1200/LV: 3/SC: 8) and Chimeric Magician (ATK: ATK: 1100/DEF: 1300/LV: 3/SC: 5)!"
Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Monsters upon landing on Yukio's field.
"Chimeric Magician's effect activates, allowing me to add a "Fusion" Spell Card from my Deck to my hand." Yukio said. "I choose Cross Oscillatory Fusion. Next, since Double Magician can be treated as two tributes for the Advance Summon of a high-level Monster, I will banish it in order to Advance Summon! Show yourself, eerie dragon with beautiful, dichromatic eyes! Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7/SC: 4)!"
The dragon with dichromatic eyes covered in grey-colored armor appeared on Yukio's field, letting out a loud howl.
"Idiot." Ashley sneered at Yukio. "You would use Dragon-type Monsters against me even though you are aware of Buster Blader's effect? There should be a limit to your arrogance, Tachibana Yukio. As I'm sure you know, Buster Blader gains 500 attack for every Dragon-type Monster on your field or in your Graveyard (Buster Blader ATK: 2600→3100). Your feeble tactics only serve to dig your grave deeper."
"We'll see about that." Yukio seemed unperturbed by Ashley's taunts. "I release Chimeric Magician to activate the Spell Card Cross Oscillatory Fusion. Through its effect, two random Pendulum Monsters will be sent from my Deck to the Extra Deck, and if they can be used as material for the Fusion Summon of a Fusion Monster in my Extra Deck, I can Special Summon that Monster. If not, I will receive damage equal to their combined Levels multiplied by 200. Now then, let's see what cards will be chosen."
Yukio briefly checked his two cards and then placed them in his Extra Deck.
"The Monsters I drew are Black Fang Magician and Ascension Magician." Yukio said. "As such, I will perform a Fusion Summon with them since there is a Monster in my Extra Deck which can use these two as materials!"
As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yukio chanted.
"Spellcaster which wields the fang of darkness! Arcane master endlessly seeking greater heights! Become one now to call forth the ravenous dragon with fangs dripping with venom! Fusion Summon! Appear now, Level 7! Starve Venemy Dragon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7/SC: 1)!"
The Monster which resembled a cross between a dragon and a carnivorous plant appeared on Yukio's field, glaring at Ashley with a hostile gaze.
"And I'm far from finished!" Yukio declared. "Since I control Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon and have two cards in my Pendulum Scale, I can send it to the Graveyard to call forth its evolved form! Undead dragon with dichromatic eyes that resides in the Netherworld! Accept this offering and revive the restless soul that yearns for ruin! Ascend now, Level 8! Odd-Eyes Phantasma Dragon (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500/LV: 8/SC: 0)!"
Following Yukio's words, Phantom Dragon sank into a portal surrounded by wraiths that appeared on the ground. Immediately afterwards, Phantasma Dragon emerged from the portal and came to land behind Yukio.
"Since you summoned two more Dragon-type Monsters, Buster Blader's attack increases even further (Buster Blader ATK: 3100→4100)." Ashley stated. "Honestly, are you retarded or what? You may have summoned two powerful dragons, but their presence only served to make my Buster Blader even more powerful. Are you seriously trying to defeat me here?"
"I'm always one hundred percent serious, even when I'm fighting against scum like you." Yukio responded. "Moreover, attack points are hardly a decisive factor when it comes to Monsters. Or are you perhaps unaware of my dragons' effects? In that case, allow me to give you a demonstration. I activate Starve Venemy Dragon's effect! Once per turn, I can target a Monster my opponent controls, negate its effects and reduce its attack by 500, while you will receive 500 points of damage and Starve Venemy will gain your Monster's effect! Gluttony Spore!"
"I activate my Trap Card, Destruction Sword Awakening!" Ashley shouted. "Through its effect, when a "Buster Blader" or "Destruction Sword" Monster I control is targeted by a card effect, I can negate that effect! Therefore, your dragon cannot affect my Buster Blader with its effect!"
"In this case, battle!" Yukio exclaimed." Odd-Eyes Phantasma Dragon, attack Buster Blader! And at this moment, my dragon's effect activates, reducing your Monster's attack by 500 for every face-up Pendulum Monster in my Extra Deck! Phantasma Brand!"
"Naïve!" Ashley yelled. "I banish Destruction Sword Awakening from my Graveyard to activate its second effect! If I control a "Buster Blader" Monster, I can equip a "Destruction Sword" Monster from my hand or Deck to it! I choose to equip Destruction Sword – Demon Buster Blade (Dark/Fiend/Effect/ATK: 1400/DEF: 400/LV: 3) from my Deck!"
Another small winged dragon carrying a sinister-looking blade in its mouth appeared on Ashley's field and landed next to Buster Blader. Immediately afterwards, a third hand emerged from Buster Blader's back and grabbed the blade.
"Demon Buster Blade's effect activates!" Ashley said with a sly grin. "Once during either player's turn, the equipped Monster can negate the effect of an opponent's Monster! As such, I'm afraid your dragon is the one getting destroyed here!"
"Not if I have anything to say about it!" Yukio climbed on Starve Venemy's back after saying so, with the Monster aiding him in reaching an Action Card in a platform above it. "I activate the Action Spell Card Miracle! Thanks to its effect, Phantasma Dragon isn't destroyed and the battle damage is halved!"
Following Yukio's words, Buster Blader swung its swords at Phantasma Dragon and struck its body. Although the Monster wasn't destroyed, the ensuing shockwaves sent Yukio skidding backwards.
Yukio – LP: 4000→3450
"It appears there are various "Destruction Sword" Monsters with a variety of effects that can be equipped to Buster Blader…" Yukio muttered. "I should tread carefully from here on out… I end my turn with this."
"In that case, I should probably start going all out from here on." Ashley let out a sly smile. "My turn! Draw! I activate the Trap Card Destruction Sword Memories, whose effect allows me to discard a "Destruction Sword" Monster from my hand in order to Special Summon a "Buster Blader" Monster from my Deck. I send Wizard Buster Blade to the Graveyard to Special Summon Destruction Swordsman – Buster Blader (Earth/Warrior/Effect/ATK: 2600/DEF: 2300/LV: 7)!"
A Monster resembling the original Buster Blader, only with slightly different armor, appeared on Ashley's field.
"A different variant of Buster Blader…?" Yukio muttered. "Does it also have an ability that gives it an advantage over Dragon-type Monsters…?"
"Next, I equip Destruction Sword – Blaze Buster Blade (Dark/Pyro/Effect/ATK: 1500/DEF: 900/LV: 4) to my Destruction Swordsman." Ashley announced as a small winged dragon carrying a sword enveloped in flames landed next to Destruction Swordsman, with the Monster seizing the blade from the dragon. "Through its effect, the equipped Monster gains 300 attack for every "Destruction Sword" card on my field (Destruction Swordsman ATK: 2600→3500). Then, I activate the equipped Demon Buster Blade's effect once more, which allows me to negate the effect of a Monster on the field. I choose your Odd-Eyes Phantasma Dragon, meaning I can attack it now. Now, it's time for battle! Buster Blader, destroy Odd-Eyes Phantasma Dragon! Dragon Buster Blade!"
Buster Blader surged forward following Ashley's command and slashed at Phantasma Dragon, destroying it and sending Yukio flying backwards.
Yukio – LP: 3450→2350
"Due to the second effect of the equipped Demon Buster Blade, all Monsters that are destroyed by battle are sent to the Graveyard without exceptions." Ashley smirked. "Therefore, you won't be able to use Pendulum Summon to bring them back. Moving on, Destruction Swordsman, take down Starve Venemy Dragon! Downfall Buster Blade!"
In a manner similar to Buster Blader, Destruction Swordsman charged forward and pierced Starve Venemy Dragon's body with its blades, destroying it and causing Yukio to wince in pain due to the ensuing shockwaves.
Yukio – LP: 2350→1350
"At this moment, Destruction Swordsman's effect activates." Ashley declared. "When this Monster destroys an opponent's Monster by battle and sends it to the Graveyard, I can equip that Monster to this card. Next, I activate the Spell Card Destruction Swordsman Spoils, whose effect allows me to send a card equipped to a "Buster Blader" Monster I control to the Graveyard in order to draw two cards from my Deck. I choose to send the equipped Starve Venemy to the Graveyard. Finally, I place a card face-down and end my turn. How did you find my newly acquired power, Tachibana Yukio? In a single turn, I depleted more than half of your Life Points and reduced your proud dragons to smoldering carcasses. On my next turn, I'll obliterate you for sure."
"Like Hell I will lose to a conceited bastard like you who would betray his homeland and join a bunch of warmongers simply for petty revenge." Yukio said with evident hostility. "My turn! Draw! Now, the counterattack begins from here. I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Emergency Oscillation, destroying both cards in my Pendulum Zones in order to draw two cards from my Deck. Then, I will reset the Pendulum Scale with the Scale 2 Swordmaster Magician and the Scale 8 Iris Magician!"
The columns of light appeared next to Yukio once more, with his two Monsters rising to their top.
"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 3 through 7. Pendulum Summon! Revive from the Extra Deck, Chimeric Magician, Black Fang Magician, White Wing Magician (ATK: 1600/DEF: 1400/LV: 4/SC: 1) and Wisdom-Eye Magician (ATK: 1500/DEF: 1500/LV: 4/SC: 5)!"
Four beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Monsters upon landing on the field.
"Due to Chimeric Magician's effect, I will add the Spell Card Fusion from my Deck to my hand." Yukio continued. "In addition, I banish Cross Oscillatory Fusion to add the banished Double Magician from my banish zone to my hand and summon it."
Double Magician appeared next to Yukio's other Monsters.
"I tune the Level 4 Black Fang Magician with the Level 4 White Wing Magician!" As Black Fang Magician turned into four stars and White Wing Magician turned into four rings surrounding them, Yukio chanted. "Gathering winds will now turn into a furious squall ravaging everything in its path! Become the personification of the storm itself! Synchro Summon! Emerge now, Level 8! The warrior wreathed in raging gusts, Tempestuous Gale Paladin (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2800/LV: 8/SC: 2)!"
The Monster clad in thick white and green armor, surrounded in raging winds and holding two war fans appeared on Yukio's field.
"I activate Tempestuous Gale Paladin's effect!" Yukio declared. "When this card is summoned, I can return either all Monsters or all Spell/Trap Cards on your field back to your hand and inflict 400 points of damage to you for each returned card! Auster Tempest!"
"That won't work, you lowlife." Ashley sneered. "Did you forget about Demon Buster Blade's effect? Thanks to it, your Monster's effect is negated!"
"I'm well aware of it." Yukio smirked. "However, I'm not finished yet here. I activate the Spell Card Fusion, using it to fuse Double Magician, Chimeric Magician and Wisdom-Eye Magician!"
As his three Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yukio chanted once more.
"Spellcaster with two minds inhabiting a single body! Arcane master with the chimeric body! Spellcaster with the sage eyes! Swirl into a vortex of the moon's gravity and awaken a new power! Fusion Summon! Appear now, Level 9! The warrior blessed by the moon's radiance, Lunar Glow Paladin (ATK: 3200/DEF: 2000/LV: 9/SC: 10)!"
The Monster clad in silver and purple armor with crescent moon shapes on it and holding a double-bladed scythe appeared on Yukio's field.
"I activate Lunar Glow Paladin's effect to switch your Buster Blader in defense mode." Yukio stated. "Phase Shift!"
A silver radiance was generated from Lunar Glow Paladin's staff, forcing Buster Blader on its knees as it switched to defense mode.
"Battle!" Yukio exclaimed. "Lunar Glow Paladin, attack Buster Blader! At this moment, I activate Swordmaster Magician's Pendulum Effect, increasing Lunar Glow's attack by 600 until the Battle Phase's end (Lunar Glow Paladin ATK: 3200→3800)! In addition, when Lunar Glow Paladin attacks an opponent's defense position Monster, it can inflict piercing damage! Go, Lunar Glow Paladin! Crescent Moon Slash!"
Lunar Glow Paladin swung its scythe, bisecting Buster Blader and sending Ashley tumbling backwards due to the ensuing shockwave.
Ashley – LP: 4000→2500
"Since the two "Destruction Sword" cards that were equipped to your Buster Blader left the field, your Destruction Swordsman's attack is reduced by 600 (Destruction Swordsman ATK: 3500→2900)." Yukio pointed. "Next, Tempestuous Gale Paladin, take down his Destruction Swordsman! Heavenly Storm!"
"Not so fast!" Ashley shouted. "I activate my Trap Card, Destruction Sword Tenacity! Thanks to its effect, if a "Buster Blader" Monster would be destroyed by battle, it's not destroyed and I can add a "Destruction Sword" or "Destruction Swordsman" Spell or Trap Card from my Deck to my hand. In exchange, the battle damage I receive from this battle is doubled!"
Following Ashley's words, Tempestuous Gale Paladin swung its war fans, generating a powerful wind that sent both Ashley and his Monster skidding backwards.
Ashley – LP: 2500→2300
"Thanks to my card's second effect, I will add Destruction Swordsman Fusion from my Deck to my hand." Ashley said so as he dusted himself. "Your counterattack wasn't half-bad for an unrefined brute, but it barely fazed me. Do try a bit harder than that, or else my victory won't feel that satisfying."
"Then how about this!?" Yukio shot his Duel Anchor at the side of the building and soared into the air, grabbing an Action Card that was embedded into a nearby house's chimney. "I activate the Action Spell Critical Strike! Thanks to its effect, if a Monster on my field failed to destroy an opponent's Monster through battle, I can increase its attack by 600 (Tempestuous Gale Paladin ATK: 3000→3600) and have it attack that Monster once again! Do it, my Paladin! Heavenly Storm!"
"In that case, allow me to respond in a similar manner!" Ashley shouted as he jumped on a nearby platform and grabbed an Action Card from it. "I activate the Action Spell Card Selection of Miracle, which allows me to either prevent a Monster I control from being destroyed by battle or halve the damage I receive from one battle! I choose to protect my Destruction Swordsman from destruction!"
Tempestuous Gale Paladin generated yet another powerful gust of wind that struck Destruction Swordsman and sent him crashing into a nearby wall, while Ashley let out a grunt of pain due to the shockwave.
Ashley – LP: 2300→1600
"With the Battle Phase's end, my Monsters' attack returns to normal (Lunar Glow Paladin ATK: 3800→3200, Tempestuous Gale Paladin ATK: 3600→3000)." Yukio said. "I end my turn. Was that good enough for you, you petty scoundrel?"
"Indeed, it was a very satisfying performance." Ashley grinned, but then his face hardened. "However, for lowly scum like you to inflict so much damage to me, that's something I won't tolerate. You must be punished for your insolence. And what better way to do this than have you taste despair after I utterly crush you!? My turn! Draw!"
Ashley smirked upon seeing his drawn card.
"Judging from your moves during the previous turn, I assume you thought that you could evade Buster Blader's effects by making use of your Spellcaster-type ace Monsters instead of your Dragon-type ones, correct? In that case, allow me to demonstrate why exactly this logic of yours is both naïve and flawed. I activate the effect of Dragon Whelp in my Graveyard. Since I control a "Buster Blader" Monster, I can send Dragon Buster Blade from my hand to the Graveyard in order to Special Summon it!"
A portal appeared on the ground, out of which Dragon Whelp emerged on Ashley's field.
"Your downfall starts from here. I tune the Level 7 Destruction Swordsman with the Level 1 Dragon Whelp!" As Destruction Swordsman turned into seven stars and Dragon Whelp turned into a single ring surrounding them, Ashley chanted. "Incarnation of viciousness preying on the hapless! Turn this world into an ocean of fire and brimstone! Synchro Summon! Swoop down, Level 8! Sinful Savage Dragon – Buster Dragon (Dark/Dragon/Synchro/Effect/ATK: 1200/DEF: 2800/LV: 8) in defense mode!"
A black-colored winged dragon with four arms descended from the sky in front of Ashley, letting out a furious howl that caused several windows in the area to shatter.
"A Synchro Monster, huh…?" Yukio narrowed his eyes at the sight of the Monster. "You weren't capable of such a feat the last time we faced each other. It looks like you learned a few new tricks before this encounter. It's such a damn shame that you are wasting your talents and your future in this pursuit for revenge."
"Spare me the lecture." Ashley scoffed at Yukio's words. "Unless I settle our score and repay you for that humiliation, I won't ever be able to move forward and quell this burning fury within me. Instead of worrying about me though, Tachibana Yukio, you should be more concerned about Buster Dragon's effect, which changes the type of all Monsters you control into Dragon."
"All my Monsters…are now Dragon-type?" Yukio grimaced. "Kuh, this means they are now susceptible to your "Buster Blader" Monsters' effects."
"That's right." Ashley smirked. "Moving on, I activate Buster Dragon's effect, which allows me to Special Summon a "Buster Blader" Monster from my Graveyard since I don't control any such Monster. Revive, Buster Blader!"
Buster Dragon struck its tail on the ground, creating a portal out of which Buster Blader emerged and landed on the field.
"Now, it's time for my trump card to take the stage." Ashley declared. "I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Destruction Swordsman Fusion, using my Buster Blader and your Tempestuous Gale Paladin, which is treated as a Dragon-type Monster, as materials in order to Fusion Summon through its effect!"
"What!?" Yukio cried out in shock. "You're using a Monster from my side of the field!?"
As the two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Ashley chanted once again.
"Valiant dragon hunter of legend, consume the strength of your prey and be reborn into a new dragon-slaying warrior! Fusion Summon! Come forth, Level 8! Dragon Destroyer Swordsman – Buster Blader (Light/Warrior/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 2800/DEF: 2500/LV: 8)!"
A warrior resembling Buster Blader, which was clad in white, gold and blue armor and held a large broadsword decorated with white dragon scales in its right hand, appeared on Ashley's field.
"My new Buster Blader's attack increases by 1000 for every Dragon-type Monster on your field and in your Graveyard." Ashley announced. "Since there are currently four such Monsters, my Buster Blader's attack increases by 4000 (Buster Blader ATK: 2800→6800). In addition, as long as my Monster remains face-up on the field, all Dragon-type Monsters you control change to defense position and cannot activate their effects."
"I see." Yukio remarked as Lunar Glow Paladin was forced on defense mode. "Thanks to your Buster Dragon, all Monsters on my field automatically become Dragon-type ones. And thanks to your new Buster Blader's effect, they are incapable of doing anything while it grows stronger from their presence. That's a troubling combo for sure."
"And things will only get worse for you." Ashley revealed a malicious smile. "You see, when Buster Blader attacks a defense position Monster, you receive piercing damage. And with your Monster's defense being merely 2000, my next attack will put an end to your wretched existence. So, without any further ado, let's battle! Buster Blader, destroy Lunar Glow Paladin and end this! Destruction Sword Flash!"
Upon seeing that Buster Blader was getting ready to attack, Yukio started running in search of an Action Card. In response, Ashley motioned at his dragon, which swiped its tail in an attempt to crush Yukio. However, he rolled away in the nick of time, grabbing an Action Card situated near a lamppost just as Buster Blader's sword was about to make contact with Lunar Glow Paladin.
"I activate the Action Spell Twilight Healing!" Yukio exclaimed. "Thorough its effect, I can negate one instance of damage and increase both our Life Points by 600!"
With a mighty swing, Buster Blader bisected Lunar Glow Paladin, with its remains turning into particles of light that enveloped the two Duelists.
Yukio – LP: 1350→1950
Ashley – LP: 1600→2200
"You stubborn bastard…" Ashley growled. "No matter. Struggle all you wish, but the end result won't change. I place one card face-down and end my turn."
"Then, it's my turn!" Yukio announced. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Foresight Draw, which allows me to draw five cards from my Deck as long as I can correctly guess what type of card is the top card of my Deck. If I call it wrong, I'll have to send five cards from the top of my Deck to the Graveyard and skip my next Draw Phase. I declare that my top card is a Spell Card."
Yukio drew the card and showed it to Ashley.
"It looks like I was correct, so I will draw five cards from my Deck." Yukio stated. "Next, I think I'll get rid of your annoying Buster Blader. I send a card from my hand to the Graveyard to activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Unraveling Bonds. Through its effect, I will destroy your Dragon Destroyer Swordsman – Buster Blader and Special Summon the Monsters used for its summon with their attack doubled and their effects negated in attack position. Revive, Buster Blader and Tempestuous Gale Paladin!"
A beam was shot from Yukio's Spell Card, striking Buster Blader and causing it to separate into two waves of energy. One of them landed on Yukio's field and transformed into Tempestuous Gale Paladin, while the other landed on Ashley's field and turned into the original Buster Blader.
(Buster Blader ATK: 2600→5200, Tempestuous Gale Paladin ATK: 3000→6000)
"Tch." Ashley clicked his tongue in irritation. "I can believe you brought down my ace Monster with such petty tricks…"
"And I'm just getting started." Yukio declared with a smile. "Using my already set Pendulum Scale, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Revive from my Extra Deck, Chimeric Magician! And from my hand, come, Sovereign Magician (ATK: 2400/DEF: 1800/LV: 7/SC: 7) and Dharma-Eye Magician (ATK: 2000/DEF: 2500/LV: 7/SC: 2)!"
Three beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Monsters upon landing on the field.
"Due to Chimeric Magician's effect, I will add Dowsing Fusion from my Deck to my hand." Yukio stated. "Next, I Overlay my Level 7 Dharma-Eye Magician and Sovereign Magician!"
As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy and were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yukio chanted.
"Dragon born from pitch-black darkness and obscured by the stars' radiance! Become the avatar of wrath and let your furious cry resonate across the cosmos! Xyz Summon! Appear now, Rank 7! Dark Anthelion Dragon (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500/R: 7/SC: 10)!"
Dark Anthelion appeared on Yukio's field, letting out a furious howl in the process.
"That rotten dragon again…" An expression of hatred appeared on Ashley's face. "I swear I still have nightmares about the time its evolved form almost burned me alive during our last Duel… I will greatly enjoy destroying it and you and along with it."
"I wonder about that." Yukio said. "Moving on, I activate the Spell Card Dowsing Fusion, banishing Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon and Chimeric Magician from my Graveyard and field respectively in order to Fusion Summon!"
As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yukio chanted once again.
"Arcane master with the chimeric body! Become one with the eerie dragon to call forth a new power! Fusion Summon! Appear, Level 7! The unstoppable dragon which carries the raging winds within its body, Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 3000/LV: 7)!"
Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon appeared on the field next to Yukio's other two Monsters, generating gusts of wind all around its body.
"Vortex Dragon's effect activates upon being summoned, allowing me to send your Buster Dragon back to the Extra Deck." Yukio stated as a powerful whirlwind enveloped Buster Dragon and caused it to disappear from Ashley's field. "Next, I detach an Overlay Unit from Dark Anthelion to activate its effect, targeting Buster Blader with it. Thanks to it, your Buster Blader loses half its attack, while Dark Anthelion gains the same amount of attack until the End Phase and I gain Life Points equal to the lost attack. Absorb Eclipse!"
The mechanical parts of Dark Anthelion's wings opened up, unleashing tendrils of darkness that bound Buster Blader and forced it on its knees.
(Buster Blader ATK: 5200→2600, Dark Anthelion ATK: 3000→5600)
Yukio – LP: 1950→4450
"Battle!" Yukio exclaimed. "Dark Anthelion Dragon, attack Buster Blader! And at this moment, I activate Swordmaster Magician's Pendulum Effect to increase Dark Anthelion's attack by 600 (Dark Anthelion ATK: 5600→6200)! Take down that miserable wretch, Dark Anthelion! Dawn of the Dark!"
"No, you won't!" Ashley shouted as he threw his sword at a nearby platform, causing an Action Card to fall down from it next to him. "I activate the Action Spell Battle Lock, which prevents your Monsters from declaring an attack on this turn!"
"Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon's effect activates!" Yukio announced. "Once during either player's turn, when a card effect is activated, I can shuffle a face-up Pendulum Monster from my Extra Deck back to the Deck in order to negate the activation and destroy that card! I will return Black Fang Magician back to the Deck in order to negate Battle Lock's effect! Overpowering Gale!"
Several twisters were generated from Vortex Dragon's wing panels, enveloping Battle Lock and destroying it. At the same time, Dark Anthelion unleashed a torrent of darkness from its maw, which headed straight for Buster Blader.
"No choice then…" Ashley gritted his teeth in frustration. "I activate the Trap Card Destruction Sword Sacrifice! Through its effect, if a "Buster Blader" Monster on my field would be destroyed as a result of battle, I can send a Monster from my Extra Deck to the Graveyard to halve the battle damage and end the Battle Phase! I choose to send Buster Dragon to the Graveyard!"
Following Ashley's words, Dark Anthelion's blast struck Buster Blader and obliterated it, sending Ashley tumbling backwards.
Ashley – LP: 2200→400
"I end my turn with this." Yukio said. "At this moment, Tempestuous Gale Paladin is destroyed due to Unraveling Bonds' effect, while Dark Anthelion's attack also returns to normal (Dark Anthelion ATK: 6200→3000)."
"You worthless piece of trash…" A murderous glint appeared on Ashley's eyes as he slowly got up, his voice tinged with madness. "You still think yourself superior to me, don't you…? You, a glorified criminal, actually consider yourself to be beyond me…? Well, you are wrong! You are nothing before me and my power! You hear that!? Nothing! Compared to the worthless you, I'm a chosen existence! You will pay dearly for damaging me to such an extent!"
"Oh dear, he's finally snapped…" Yukio sighed. "Why must I always deal with the crazy ones?"
"My turn!" Ashley bellowed. "Draw! I activate the effect of Destruction Sword Sacrifice in my Graveyard, banishing it along with Buster Blader and Destroyer Swordsman in order to destroy your two Monsters!"
"I activate Vortex Dragon's effect, shuffling Tempestuous Gale back to my Deck in order to negate the activation of your effect." Yukio stated. "Therefore my Monsters are safe."
"I knew you'd do that." Ashley said while cackling madly. "But my true aim is this! I activate the Spell Card Destruction Swordsman Union! Through its effect, I can Fusion Summon a "Buster Blader" Fusion Monster by banishing Monsters from my field, hand or Graveyard as materials! I will banish Dragon Destroyer Swordsman – Buster Blader and Buster Dragon from my Graveyard in order to Fusion Summon!"
As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Ashley chanted.
"Peerless dragon hunter endlessly seeking prey! Become one with the dragon of devastation and awaken the bloodthirsty berserker from its slumber! Fusion Summon! Come before us, Level 10! Dragon Slaying Swordmaster – Ultimate Buster Blader (Dark/Warrior/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 3600/DEF: 2800/LV: 10)!"
A Monster clad in obsidian black armor resembling that of Buster Blader with red lines running through it and several dragon parts attached to it, which held a sinister-looking broadsword and had dark aura emitting from its body, appeared on Ashley's field.
"This is the ultimate dragon slayer I prepared just for you, Tachibana Yukio." Ashley let out a sinister smile. "Now, bear witness to the full strength of my grudge and resentment towards you. Due to my Ultimate Buster Blader's effect, the effects of all Dragon-type Monsters on the field are negated as long as it remains face-up on the field. Now, it's time for battle! Ultimate Buster Blader, destroy Dark Anthelion Dragon! And at this moment, my Monster's effect activates! When it battles a Dragon-type Monster, that Monster's attack gets added to my Ultimate Buster Blader's attack until the End Phase (Ultimate Buster Blader ATK: 3600→6600)! Take down that wicked dragon, Ultimate Buster Blader! Ultimate Destruction Flash!"
With a mighty swing of its blade, Ultimate Buster Blader decapitated Dark Anthelion, destroying it and sending Yukio tumbling backwards.
Yukio – LP: 4550→950
"And that's not all!" Ashley extended his hands with a gleeful look on his face. "Ultimate Buster Blader can attack all Dragon-type Monsters my opponent controls once each! And that means you're finished! Go, Ultimate Buster Blader! Destroy his last pathetic Monster and end this! And of course, my Monster's attack increases even further (Ultimate Buster Blader ATK: 6600→9100)! See you in Hell, Tachibana Yukio!"
"I'm going to say no thank you to that!" Yukio exclaimed as Ultimate Buster Blader's sword pierced through Vortex Dragon's body. "I banish Null Magician from my Graveyard to reduce the battle damage to 0!"
"You persistent piece of trash!" Ashley bellowed. "You still insist on clinging on to your miserable life!? Then, I will inflict even more pain and suffering to you! When Ultimate Buster Blader destroys an opponent's Dragon-type Monster and sends it to the Graveyard, you receive 800 points of damage! Take this!"
The dark aura around Ultimate Buster Blader intensified and transformed into a fang that struck Yukio, causing him to let out a cry of pain as he fell to his knees.
Yukio – LP: 950→150
"Hahahaha!" Ashley laughed with a mad expression on his face. "Serves you right, you scum! That position is the most appropriate for you! Suffer in agony, despair and finally die! And when you do, my defeat at your hands will finally stop haunting my nightmares! I end my turn, with Ultimate Buster Blader's attack returning to normal (Ultimate Buster Blader ATK: 9100→3600). Now, what will you do? If you're thinking about using one of your Spellcaster-type Monsters to turn things around, I regret to inform that won't work! As long as Ultimate Buster Blader is on the field, my opponent's non-Dragon-type Monsters cannot declare an attack or target it with their effects! There's nothing more you can do other than die a pitiful death!"
"Sorry, but I have no intention of giving up just yet." Yukio declared with a resolute expression as he got up. "My friends and I came here to stop this war, protect the innocent and save those who were captured by Academia. I won't allow a small fry like you who only dreams about vengeance stand in our way."
Yukio then regarded Ashley with a pitying look.
"However…I will at least apologize for the brutal manner in which I defeated you last time. It's a fact that this action drove you over the edge. Even so, that doesn't excuse your actions or the blatant disregard for the fate of the world. That's why I'll take you down before your sins become irredeemable."
"You…" Ashley growled at Yukio. "Are you still looking down on me, you worthless piece of trash!? I don't need your apologies or your forgiveness! All I need is for you to grovel before my feet like the insignificant vermin you are!"
"It appears any further discussion is pointless…" Yukio sighed. "In that case, the only thing left is to take you down with extreme prejudice! My turn! Draw! I activate the Spell Card Resurrection of the Dead to bring back Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon from my Graveyard!"
A portal appeared on the ground, out of which Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon emerged on Yukio's field.
"Next, I will use my already set Pendulum Scale to Pendulum Summon once again." Yukio continued. "Revive, Dark Anthelion Dragon!"
A single beam of light emerged from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the form of Dark Anthelion Dragon.
"Didn't you listen to me before?" Ashley sneered. "No matter how many Dragon-type Monsters you summon, they cannot stand up to my Ultimate Buster Blader. It's impossible for them to defeat it! Your efforts will amount to nothing in the end!"
"Is that so?" Yukio smirked. "Then watch me prove you wrong as I take you down. Using Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon and Dark Anthelion Dragon as materials, I will perform a Contact Fusion!"
As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yukio chanted.
"Dragon hosting the raging gales! Dragon of everlasting darkness! Become one now and call forth the progenitor of winds from the ends of the world! Contact Fusion! Descend now, Level 10! The almighty dragon which commands the storms, Odd-Eyes Hraesvelgr Dragon (Wind/Dragon/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 3000/DEF: 3400/LV: 10)!"
A dragon clad in dark green armor with massive wings resembling those of an eagle extending from its back and massive talons protruding from its feet appeared on Yukio's field.
"A Contact Fusion…?" Ashley narrowed his eyes, but then snorted. "Ridiculous. That's also a Dragon-type Monster, is it not? Therefore, it's useless against Ultimate Buster Blader! As expected, your final play amounted to nothing in the end!"
"Premature as always, I see." Yukio said. "On the turn that it's Special Summoned, Hraesvelgr Dragon is unaffected by card effects, meaning your Ultimate Buster Blader's effect cannot negate its effects for this turn. Therefore, Hraesvelgr Dragon's effect now activates, allowing it to gain attack equal to the half the attack of the Pendulum Monster used for its Fusion Summon, meaning it gains 1500 attack (Hraesvelgr Dragon ATK: 3000→4500)."
"Your Monster's attack surpassed mine?" Ashley grimaced. "Even so, attacking my Monster is useless! Its effect will still add your Monster's attack to its own during battle! Ultimate Buster Blader is still superior to your dragon!"
"Let's test that theory, shall we?" Yukio grinned. "Battle! Odd-Eyes Hraesvelgr Dragon, attack Ultimate Buster Blader!"
"You fool!" Ashley exclaimed. "I activate Ultimate Buster Blader's effect! When it battles a Dragon-type Monster, I can—"
"Odd-Eyes Hraesvelgr Dragon's effect activates!" Yukio interrupted Ashley. "Once per turn, when this card declares an attack, I can negate the activation of an opponent's card effect and destroy that card! Anticyclone Bind!"
Powerful gusts of wind were generated from Hraesvelgr Dragon's wings, surrounding Ultimate Buster Blader's body and shredding its to pieces, leaving nothing behind once they abated.
"Impossible!" Ashley cried out in shock. "My strongest Monster was brought down so easily!?"
"Now, the finale!" Yukio declared. "Odd-Eyes Hraesvelgr Dragon, attack Ashley directly and finish this! Monsoon Pressure Wave!"
Odd-Eyes Hraesvelgr Dragon opened its maw wide and unleashed an enormous twister that headed straight for Ashley and enveloped his body.
"Not again!" Ashley screamed. "I…will once again by defeated by the likes of you!? Curse you! Curse you, Tachibana Yukiooooooo!"
After being tossed like a ragdoll around while inside the cyclone, Ashley was thrown into a nearby wall and crumbled to the ground unconscious.
Ashley – LP: 400→0
Yukio: WIN
"That's a wrap." Yukio commented as he surveyed the fallen form of his opponent. "Now, what to do with you? I could leave him here, but there's no guarantee he won't come after me later. And I really am not in the mood to deal with persistent stalkers…"
"E-Excuse me, the silver-haired youth over there…"
Turning his head towards the general direction of the voice that had called out to him, Yukio noticed two somewhat battered individuals slowly approaching him, caution evident in their eyes. Yukio momentarily tensed upon seeing the Duel Disks around their arms, but relaxed upon noticing that their design was different from the Academia-issue ones.
"Who are you people?" Yukio asked them. "What are you doing here?"
"We are students of Sakaki Yusho-sensei's Duel School." One of the youths answered. "We were fighting Academia's students not too long ago, but we were separated from the rest of our group. We saw the explosions from the distance, so we thought that maybe fellow students of our school were fighting against Academia and rushed here."
"Sakaki…Yusho, you say?" Yukio was surprised to say the least. "So Yuya's father really is here after all… He'll definitely be overjoyed once he hears about it… Do you know where I can find Sakaki Yusho? I'm a friend of his son and I'd like to help him if he's in trouble."
"Well, Sensei should be heading to the harbor in order to sail to Academia." The other youth said. "However, we split up from him in order to draw as many Academia agents as possible away from him, so we don't know where exactly he is right now."
"I guess that explains why Dennis seemed to be in such a rush to head to the harbor…" Yukio murmured. "In that case, I should also make my way to the harbor to assist Kaito. Do you guys think you can restrain that unconscious fellow over there in the meantime? He is an ally of Academia and it would be a problem if he woke up and came after me or my friends."
"Don't worry, we've got it covered." The second youth said as he materialized a pair of Real Solid Vision cuffs around Ashley's hands and feet. "He won't be going anywhere for a while. You do what you have to do. I just have one request. Should you encounter any of our fellow students fighting against Academia's agents…would it be possible for you to assist them? I'm aware that you probably have your own priorities, but we'd appreciate any help we can get, especially since Academia outnumbers us by quite a wide margin."
"Say no more." Yukio said with a smile. "I'll do my best to aid your comrades if I come across them. The enemy of my enemy is my friend after all, right?"
"Thank you very much!"
Nodding at the two Duelists who bowed to him, Yukio took off, running as fast as he could towards the harbor…
Card Corner
Destruction Sword – Demon Buster Blade
ATK: 1400, DEF: 400, LV: 3
Dark/Fiend/Effect
Monster Effect: You can target 1 "Buster Blader" you control; equip this Monster from your hand or your side of the field to that target. While this card is equipped to a Monster, you can activate this effect; once during either player's turn, you can negate the effects of an opponent's Monster. As long as this card remains face-up on the field, your opponent's destroyed Monsters are sent to the Graveyard.
Destruction Sword – Blaze Buster Blade
ATK: 1500, DEF: 900, LV: 4
Dark/Pyro/Effect
Monster Effect: You can target 1 "Buster Blader" you control; equip this Monster from your hand or your side of the field to that target. The equipped Monster gains 300 ATK for every "Destruction Sword" card on the field. You can send this Equip Card to the Graveyard to target a "Buster Blader" or "Destruction Sword" Monster in your Graveyard; Special Summon it. You cannot Special Summon other Monsters on the turn you activated this effect.
Dragon Slaying Swordmaster – Ultimate Buster Blader
ATK: 3600, DEF: 2800, LV: 10
Dark/Warrior/Fusion/Effect
"Dragon Destroyer Swordsman – Buster Blader" + "Buster Dragon"
Monster Effect: This card can only be Fusion Summoned by using the above Monsters as materials. The effects of Dragon-type Monsters your opponent controls are negated. Non-Dragon-type Monsters your opponent controls cannot attack or target this card with their effects. This card can attack all Dragon-type Monsters your opponent controls once each. Each time this card battles a Dragon-type Monster, increase its ATK by an amount equal to that Monster's ATK until the End Phase. Every time this card destroys a Dragon-type Monster and sends it to the Graveyard, inflict 800 points of damage to your opponent.
Odd-Eyes Hraesvelgr Dragon
ATK: 3000, DEF: 3400, LV: 10
Wind/Dragon/Fusion/Effect
"Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon" + 1 Pendulum Monster on the field
Monster Effect: You can Special Summon this card by sending the above materials from your field to the Graveyard (you do not use Fusion). This card is unaffected by card effects on the turn it's Special Summoned. When this card is Special Summoned, you can increase its ATK by an amount equal to half the ATK of the Pendulum Monster used for its Fusion Summon. Once per turn, when this card declares an attack, you can negate the activation of an opponent's card effect and destroy it. Each time this card destroys a Monster as a result of battle, shuffle it back into the opponent's Deck after damage calculation.
Cross Oscillatory Fusion
Normal Spell Card
You must tribute a Pendulum Monster on your field to activate this card's effect. Select two random Pendulum Monsters from your Deck and place them in your Extra Deck face-up, and if you can perform a Fusion Summon of a Fusion Monster by using these two Monsters as materials, Special Summon that Monster from your Extra Deck (this Special Summon is treated as a Fusion Summon). If you cannot, take damage equal to the combined Levels of the sent Monsters x 200. You can banish this card from your Graveyard to target a Pendulum Monster in your banish zone; add it to your hand.
Destruction Swordsman Spoils
Normal Spell Card
Send a card that is equipped to a "Buster Blader" Monster you control to the Graveyard; draw two cards from your Deck.
Critical Strike
Action Spell
If a Monster you control failed to destroy an opponent's Monster through battle, you can increase its ATK by 600 and have it attack that Monster once again.
Twilight Healing
Action Spell
Negate one instance of damage and increase both players' Life Points by 600.
Destruction Swordsman Union
Normal Spell Card
Fusion Summon one "Buster Blader" Fusion Monster from your Extra Deck by banishing Monsters from your hand, field or Graveyard as materials. If both the Fusion Monster summoned by this card's effect and this card are in the Graveyard, you can banish them to Special Summon its Fusion Materials from the banish zone.
Destruction Sword Awakening
Normal Trap Card
When a "Buster Blader" Monster on your side of the field is targeted by a card effect, you can activate this card to negate the activation of that effect. You can banish this card from your Graveyard and target a "Buster Blader" Monster you control; equip a "Destruction Sword" Monster from your Deck to it.
Destruction Sword Tenacity
Normal Trap Card
If a "Buster Blader" Monster you control would be destroyed by battle, it's not destroyed and you can add a "Destruction Sword" or "Destruction Swordsman" Spell or Trap Card from your Deck to your hand. In exchange, the battle damage you receive from that battle is doubled.
Destruction Sword Sacrifice
Normal Trap Card
If a "Buster Blader" Monster on your field would be destroyed as a result of battle, you can send a Monster from your Extra Deck to the Graveyard to halve the battle damage and end the Battle Phase. You can banish this card along with any number of "Buster Blader" Monsters from your Graveyard to target an equal number of Monsters on your opponent's field and destroy them.
And that concludes Chapter 37. Not much to say here. I had Ashley, Yukio's opponent in the Maiami Championship, return here in a manner similar to Kachidoki mostly in order to show the Buster Blader archetype and Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon's evolved form. Expect things to escalate a bit more during the next chapter, where Nightshroud enters the fray.
That's all for now. As always, please read, review, favorite and follow.
See you all next time!