Greetings, community! Dvdryms here with chapter 54. My apologies for the delay, but the length of the chapter and unforeseen circumstances delayed the planned release of the chapter. First, in response to your questions.
—To Guest (1): Fubuki (or Atticus) isn't possessed by the dark entity here. He's simply using the alias Nightshroud instead of his true name as a sign that he's discarded the person he used to be. Academia has plenty of troops since they basically control the entire country they're based at, but they're running low as of the current chapter.
—To Guest (2): I'm not sure about the language, but if you're asking whether Yusho will face Yuya, then yes, that will happen towards the end.
—To Guest 1.0: Rank-Up Xyz Evolution was something I just used on the spot. It doesn't have any significance. And the line-up against Zarc will be slightly different, though I can't say too much right now.
—To Guest (3): Perhaps I'll have Yukio or Yuya use a Kuriboh Monster.
And now, on with the story!
Chapter 54 – Return to Zero
"Now then, how shall we deal with this, I wonder?"
Reiji remarked as he and the two people beside him, Yusho and Reira, gazed at their opponents, the Academia agents Nightshroud and Fujiwara Yusuke. Although he hadn't seen the two youths Duel before, Reiji could more or less gauge the strength of his opponents thanks to the numerous Duels he had participated so far. As such, he could tell that their current foes were no pushovers.
"It's true that there are several choices available regarding the battle format." Nightshroud said. "However, I hate overly complicated things, so let's just make it one-one-one fights. Would you agree to that?"
"I have no problem with that." Reiji responded as he straightened his glasses. "And I'm certain my comrades feel the same."
"Then, let's begin already." Yusuke said as he stepped forward. "I'll go first, so which one of you will face me and perish first?"
"Since you're so eager, allow me to—"
"You will stay right there and observe, Sakaki-sensei." Reiji stopped Yusho from moving forward. "You're in no condition to Duel right now. Don't think I didn't notice that you've been moving with some difficulty for a while now. I suppose the Duel against the simulacrum has aggravated your injury, so it's best if you take it easy for now."
"Damn, I was seen through, huh…" Yusho let out a self-deprecating smile. "In that case, who will go out there? You, Reiji?"
"I have a feeling that the masked youth will be a far greater challenge than our current opponent, so I'll refrain from participating in this match." Reiji stated before turning to his younger sibling. "Reira, are you up for it?"
"Yes, Nii-sama." Reira nodded as he stepped forward. "I won't disappoint you."
"Oi, oi, what's the meaning of this, Reiji!?" Yusho protested. "I know you said before that Reira is skilled, but sending him out there against opponents of this caliber—!"
"It will be alright." Reira interrupted Yusho. "I'm also a Lancer. I won't lose."
"And there you have it." Reiji said, traces of a smile evident on his face. "Don't look down on Reira, Sakaki-sensei. He's also grown as a result of our journey so far. I'm sure he can handle himself just fine."
"I sure hope you're right about that, Reiji…"
"So my opponent will be the leader's younger brother?" Yusuke remarked. "That's fine by me, but I warn you that I won't go easy on you just because you're a brat."
"That's fine." Reira said. "Bring it on."
"Despite your meek attitude, you have some guts." Yusuke smirked. "Then, let's begin. But before that, I should inform you that a special barrier has been deployed in the area to prevent the use of Action Fields and prevent intrusions from outside opponents. If you want to beat us, you'll have to rely entirely on your Deck and skills. Now, prepare yourself for a one-way trip to the abyss, young Lancer!"
[Duel!]
Both Duelists shouted together as they activated their Duel Disks.
Reira – LP: 4000
Yusuke – LP: 4000
"I'll take the first turn." Reira announced. "I summon Lens Magician (Light/Spellcaster/Effect/ATK: 0/DEF: 800/LV: 2)."
A small Monster dressed in a magician's robes with lens extending from various parts of its body appeared on Reira's field.
"I place one card face-down and end my turn." Reira said.
"Then, it's my turn!" Yusuke announced. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Terraforming, whose effect allows me to add a Field Spell Card from my Deck to my hand. I choose the Field Spell Card Clear World and activate it!"
Following Yusuke's words, the entire corridor was suddenly enveloped by intense light and was transformed into an empty white field with six large crystals hovering over it.
"The Field Spell Card actually altered the surroundings…" Reiji muttered. "How peculiar in this day and age."
"I activate the Continuous Spell Card Clear Radiance." Yusuke continued. "Then, I summon Clear Phantom (ATK: 1200/DEF: 800/LV: 3)!"
A Monster resembling a demonic creature encased in a transparent crystal appeared on Yusuke's field.
"Due to Clear Radiance's effect, the attack of all "Clear" Monsters on my field increases by 500 (Clear Phantom ATK: 1200→1700)." Yusuke stated. "Now, let's battle! Clear Phantom, destroy Lens Magician! Clean Kill!"
"I activate Lens Magician's effect." Reira declared. "If this card is targeted for an attack, I can release it in order to negate that attack and Special Summon this card from my Deck. Appear, C/C One-Eyed Past Eye (Dark/Fiend/Effect/ATK: 1400/DEF: 1200/LV: 3)."
Following Reira's words, a bright flash of light was emitted from Lens Magician, causing Clear Phantom to stop its attack. When the radiance died down, a deformed, mechanical eye could be seen hovering on Reira's field.
"Not bad, brat." Yusuke smirked. "However, no matter what you try to do, it will all be in vain. You'll come to understand the dreadfulness of my "Clear" Monsters and my Clear World soon enough. I place one card face-down and end my turn."
"My turn." Reira announced. "Draw. I activate the Continuous Spell Card Reel Fusion. Through its effect, once per turn, I can target a Monster my opponent controls and Special Summon a Token with the same name, Level and original attribute as it on their field. Come, Reel Token (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 3)."
A camera lens appeared out of Reira's Spell Card, emitting a wave of light that created a copy of Clear Phantom on Yusuke's field.
"The second effect of Reel Fusion activates." Reira continued. "Through it, I will fuse One-Eyed Past Eye with the copy of Clear Phantom!"
As the copy of Clear Phantom and Past Eye swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Reira chanted.
"Demon of the void! Dwell in this eye and grant me your power! Fusion Summon! Appear, Level 4! C/C/C Shadow Dagger the Embodiment of Fused Arms (Dark/Fiend/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 1800/DEF: 0/LV: 4)!"
A pitch-black dagger surrounded by black smoke that had a large ruby attached to its guard appeared on Reira's field.
"I activate Shadow Dagger's effect." Reira declared. "Once per turn, I can destroy a Dark-attribute Monster on the field. I will destroy Clear Phantom."
"It's useless!" Yusuke exclaimed with evident glee. "Due to their shared effect, all "Clear" Monsters are treated as having no attribute! Therefore, your Monster's effect cannot be used against them! In addition, one of Clear World's effect prevents you from declaring an attack as long as you control Dark-attribute Monsters! With this, your moves have been completely sealed!"
"A Field Spell Card which probably gives different negative effects according to the attribute of the Monsters on the field, as well as Monsters which possess no attribute, huh…?" Reiji remarked. "That fellow might have the worst compatibility with Reira, who generally relies on using his opponent's Monsters in order to summon various Extra Deck Monsters of varying attributes and take advantage of their effects against Monsters that share the same attribute."
"In that case, isn't Reira in a massive disadvantage right now?" Yusho spoke with evident agitation. "Damn, I knew I should have been the one to Duel…"
"Calm down, Sakaki-sensei." Reiji said. "Don't count Reira out just yet. Do you really think he's the type of Duelist who wouldn't have countermeasures prepared for such circumstances? As the one who raised him, trust me when I say that he's still very much in the game."
"I activate the Spell Card Persona Shutter Layer 3." Reira stated. "Through its effect, I can target a Monster I control and a Monster my opponent controls in order to have the first Monster gain the name, attribute, type and effects of that Monster until the End Phase. In addition, if the affected Monster destroys an opponent's Monster by battle, the battle damage is reduced to 0, but my opponent receives effect damage equal to half of the affected Monster's attack."
"With this, he can circumvent Clear World's effect." Nightshroud remarked. "Not bad."
Following Nightshroud's words, a pair of ornate lens attached themselves to Shadow Dagger, transforming it into a replica of Clear Phantom.
"Battle!" Reira exclaimed. "My Shadow Dagger which is treated as Clear Phantom will destroy your Clear Phantom! And due to Persona Shutter Layer 3's effect, you'll receive 900 points of damage!"
Two blasts of energy were shot out of the lens, destroying Clear Phantom and striking Yusuke's chest, causing him to grimace from the pain.
Yusuke – LP: 4000→3100
"At this moment, Clear Phantom's effect activates!" Yusuke shouted. "Since it was destroyed by battle, I can destroy a Monster my opponent controls and send three cards from the top of your Deck to the Graveyard! I'll destroy your Shadow Dagger!"
Several crystal shards shot out of the smoke generated from Clear Phantom's destruction, piercing through Shadow Dagger and destroying it.
"Moreover, I activate the Trap Card Clear Call!" Yusuke continued. "Through its effect, if a "Clear" Monster on my field was destroyed, I can Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Clear" Monster from my Deck! Come, Clear Rage Golem (ATK: 1600→2100/DEF: 1800/LV: 4)!"
The Monster resembling a stone construct encased inside a transparent crystal appeared on Yusuke's field.
"Since a "C/C/C" Monster was sent to the Graveyard, I can activate the Continuous Trap Card Nightmare Rewind Loop." Reira stated. "Through its effect, I can Special Summon a "C/C/C" Monster from my Extra Deck with a different summoning type, but the same Level or Rank and attribute as it by ignoring its summoning conditions. Appear, Rank 4! C/C/C Shadow Crushgaunts the Embodiment of Overlaid Armors (Dark/Fiend/Xyz/Effect/ATK: 1000/DEF: 2000/R: 4/OU: 0) in defense mode!"
A pair of black, ornate, armored gloves with gold lines running through them appeared on Reira's field.
"Since I Special Summoned a "C/C/C" Xyz Monster through this card's effect, I can attach the destroyed Monster as an Overlay Unit to it (Shadow Crushgaunts OU: 0→1)." Reira said. "I end my turn with that."
"My turn!" Yusuke announced. "Draw! Now then, I think that's enough playing around, brat. I'll bring out my full might in order to crush you from this point on. Since Clear World is on my field, I can Special Summon this card from my hand. Come, Clear Gazer (ATK: 0→500/DEF: 500/LV: 2)!"
A demonic-looking eye that was encased inside a transparent crystal appeared on Yusuke's field.
"Due to its effect, Clear Gazer can be treated as two tributes for the Advance Summon of a "Clear" Monster." Yusuke stated. "I release Clear Gazer in order to Advance Summon! Appear now, Clear Wrathful Cerberus (Dark/Beast/Effect/ATK: 2500→3000/DEF: 1900/LV: 7)!"
A Monster resembling a three-headed demonic-looking hound with azure flames erupting from various parts of its body that was encased inside a transparent crystal appeared on Yusuke's field.
"Next, since "Clear World" is on my field, I can activate the Spell Card Clear Bargain." Yusuke continued. "Through its effect, each time a "Clear" Monster on my field deals damage to you during this turn, I can draw a card from my Deck. Then, I activate Clear Wrathful Cerberus's effect. Once per turn, I can send up to three "Clear" Monsters from my Deck to the Graveyard in order to allow my Monster to attack that many times during this turn's Battle Phase. I'll send three "Clear" Monsters from my Deck to my Graveyard. Moreover, as long as Clear Wrathful Cerberus remains on the field, my "Clear" Monsters can inflict piercing damage when attacking an opponent's defense position Monster."
"That doesn't sound good…" Yusho narrowed his eyes at this. "If Reira doesn't do something, this might very well be the end."
"Battle!" Yusuke exclaimed. "Clear Wrathful Cerberus, attack Shadow Crushgaunts! Clean Vanishing Blaze!"
"I activate the effect of Shadow Crushgaunts!" Reira declared. "By detaching an Overlay Unit from it, I can prevent the destruction of a Dark-attribute Monster I control by battle for the rest of the Battle Phase and halve any battle damage from that battle! I will have it target itself for that effect!"
Following Reira's words, the three heads of Wrathful Cerberus emerged from the crystal, unleashing an azure-colored blaze that struck Shadow Crushgaunts, but failed to destroy it, with several stray embers striking Reira's body and causing him to wince.
Reira – LP: 4000→3500
"How annoying…" Yusuke growled. "In any case, thanks to Clear Bargain's effect, I will draw a card from my Deck. Now, let's continue the battle! Clear Wrathful Cerberus, attack twice more! Clean Vanishing Blaze!"
Clear Wrathful Cerberus shot two more blasts of flame from its mouth, striking Shadow Crushgaunts and sending Reira skidding backwards due to the ensuing shockwave.
Reira – LP: 3500→3000→2500
"Of course, I'll draw two more cards from my Deck thanks to Clear Bargain's effect." Yusuke smirked. "Finally, Clear Rage Golem, attack his Monster as well! Clean Cruelty!"
Several rocks appeared around Clear Rage Golem and were shot towards Shadow Crushgaunts, striking it and generating a shockwave that caused Reira to wince.
Reira – LP: 2500→2450
"Clear Bargain's effect activates once again." Yusuke said. "Thanks to it, I'll draw one more card from my Deck."
"With the Battle Phase's end, Shadow Crushgaunts is destroyed due to its effect." Reira stated as his Monster's body turned into particles and scattered. "At this moment, the effect of Nightmare Rewind Loop activates, allowing me to Special Summon yet another Monster from my Extra Deck. Come, C/C/C Shadow Bow the Embodiment of Tuned Attacks (Dark/Fiend/Synchro/Effect/ATK: 1900/DEF: 0/LV: 4)!"
An ornate black-colored bow that was surrounded by black mist appeared on Reira's field.
"Another one of these weird Monsters…" Yusuke muttered. "Well, it doesn't matter. In the end, they are completely helpless before my Monsters and Clear World's effects. I place a card face-down and end my turn."
"My turn." Reira announced. "Draw. I activate Shadow Bow's effect, which allows me to inflict damage to my opponent equal to the number of Dark-attribute Monsters on the field multiplied by 200. As such, I'll inflict 200 points of damage to you."
A single arrow made out of dark energy was shot out of Shadow Bow, striking Fujiwara's chest and causing him to grimace.
Yusuke – LP: 3100→2900
"Then, I activate the Spell Card Evil Eye Rebirth." Reira continued. "Through its effect, I can release a "C/C/C" Monster on my field in order to Special Summon a "C/C Eye" Monster from my Graveyard and draw one card from my Deck. I will release C/C/C Shadow Bow in order to Special Summon C/C One-Eyed Past Eye."
A portal appeared on the field, with Shadow Bow being consumed by it and One-Eyed Past Eye emerging from it.
"I activate the Spell Card Persona Overwrite." Reira stated. "Thanks to its effect, I can target a Monster on the field and change its original attribute into any attribute I wish until the end of this turn. I choose to change Clear Wrathful Cerberus's attribute to Wind. Then, I activate Reel Fusion's effect, Special Summoning a Reel Token with the same Level and attribute as Clear Wrathful Cerberus on your field. Come, Reel Token (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 7)."
A copy of Wrathful Cerberus appeared on Yusuke's field.
"Through Reel Fusion's effect, I will perform a Fusion Summon by using One-Eyed Past Eye and Clear Wrathful Cerberus as materials!" As the two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Reira chanted. "Hound prowling the wastes of the Underworld! Dwell in this eye and grant me your power! Fusion Summon! Come forth, Level 8! C/C/C Sonic Halberd the Embodiment of Fused Arms (Wind/Fiend/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 3000/DEF: 0/LV: 8)!"
A massive blue-colored halberd surrounded by gusts of wind appeared on Reira's field.
"Reira summoned a powerful Monster, and since it's not a Dark-attribute Monster, he should be able to declare an attack." Reiji commented. "However, what sort of negative effect will Clear World give Reira since he has a Wind-attribute Monster…?"
"Since your brother seems worried about you, let me inform you about Clear World's effect as a special privilege." Yusuke smirked. "Since you control a Wind-attribute Monster, you cannot activate Spell Cards."
"That doesn't matter right now." Reira said. "Battle! Sonic Halberd, destroy Clear Rage Golem!"
"Naïve!" Yusuke exclaimed. "I activate the Trap Card Clear Hush, whose effect allows me to destroy a Monster that targeted a "Clear" Monster I control for an attack and end the Battle Phase!"
"Sonic Halberd's effect activates!" Reira declared. "Since this card was Special Summoned, I can prevent its destruction from battle or card effects for the rest of this turn! Therefore, the attack resumes!"
Following Reira's words, Sonic Halberd shot forward and pierced through Clear Rage Golem, destroying it and sending Yusuke flying backwards due to the ensuing explosion.
Yusuke – LP: 2900→2000
"Next, Sonic Halberd will attack Clear Wrathful Cerberus since its effect allows it to attack twice per Battle Phase!" Reira pointed at Yusuke's remaining Monster. "And even though their attack is the same, Sonic Halberd won't be destroyed due to its effect! Do it, Sonic Halberd!"
Clear Wrathful Cerberus shot out a torrent of blue flames at Sonic Halberd, but Reira's Monster cleaved through them and split the Monster in half, destroying it.
"Since Clear Wrathful Cerberus was destroyed while Clear World is on the field, its effect activates." Yusuke stated. "Thanks to it, I can draw cards from my Deck equal to the number of "Clear" Monsters that were sent to the Graveyard during this turn, including itself. As such, I will draw two cards."
"I place one card face-down and end my turn." Reira said. "At this moment, Reel Fusion's effect would destroy Sonic Halberd, but its effect will protect it from destruction."
"That was well-played." Yusuke praised Reira, but then his expression hardened. "Then again, it's only natural that you are this strong, right? You, privileged little brat, are Akaba Reiji's younger brother after all. That man runs one of the biggest and most successful companies in Standard, being one of the richest and most influential people in your dimension. Things such as constructing the best Deck possible for you and hiring professional trainers to educate you should be a simple matter for him. Good old nepotism at its finest, no?"
Reira only frowned slightly at Yusuke's words, with the Academia agent continuing to speak.
"Such a world, where everything you can accomplish or acquire is greatly limited by your status and where everyone wars against each other because of their individual wishes, is abhorrent to me. The country I grew up was just like that. Just like that detestable Synchro Dimension, all the citizens were placed in classes according to family standing, with the privileged ones getting the lion's share of the resources and leaving the rest of us to work for scraps. No matter how talented you were, you could never hope to get acknowledged as anything more than a useful tool for those with higher social standing. And the ensuing war…that's where the true ugliness of humanity really showed."
Yusuke spread his hands wide as he let out a malicious smile.
"For the sake of their goals, dreams, hopes or desires, humans were willing to lower themselves to the point where they became savage beasts in order to attain victory, committing every sin imaginable in the process as they slaughtered each other. History has proven time and time again that humanity's greatest flaw is their fierce sense of individuality. That meaningless trait has only served to make us suffer. Everything…everything should become as clear and pristine as this beautiful world spreading around us, united under a single will. And once Academia accomplishes its goal of uniting the dimensions, we'll be one step closer to creating a world of true equality, where people won't have to be burdened by trivialities that only serve to split them apart."
"You mean a world where everyone will be just a mindless drone following the will of my father…or perhaps your will?" Reiji interjected. "How ridiculous. I didn't know Academia also had comedians among their ranks."
"To be expected by someone bound by the chains of the current world, you don't understand anything about the liberation nihility offers." Yusuke sneered. "But I digress. Let's continue the Duel. First, I activate the Continuous Spell Card Clear Wall. Then, I activate the Spell Card Fusion, sending two copies of Clear Cube from my hand to the Graveyard in order to Fusion Summon!"
As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yusuke chanted.
"Hollow existences traversing the unblemished world of void! Join together as one and transform into the herald of death reaping the souls of the forgotten! Fusion Summon! Come forth, Level 8! Clear Noxious Reaper (ATK: 0→500/DEF: 2000/LV: 8)!"
The Monster resembling a cloaked demon with scythes instead of arms that was encased inside a transparent crystal appeared on Yusuke's field.
"I activate the Spell Card Clear Sacrifice, whose effect allows me to reveal a Level 5 or higher "Clear" Monster in my hand and banish "Clear" Monsters from my Graveyard equal to the number of Monsters required to Advance Summon it in order to Normal Summon it without a tribute." Yusuke continued. "I will reveal Clear Void Sorcerer, banishing both copies of Clear Cube from my Graveyard in order to Normal Summon it (Dark/Fiend/Effect/ATK: 2800→3300/DEF: 2000/LV: 8)!"
A masked Monster, which was clad in ornate robes and held a black staff with an orb attached to its tip in its left hand, that was encased inside a transparent crystal appeared on Yusuke's field.
"I activate Clear Void Sorcerer's effect." Yusuke declared. "Once per turn, I can destroy a number of Spell and Trap Cards on my opponent's field equal to the number of "Clear" Monsters I control. In addition, if Clear World is on my field, I can destroy one more such card. I will destroy Nightmare Rewind Loop, Reel Fusion and your face-down card!"
Clear Void Sorcerer extended its staff forward, unleashing three bolts of lightning that destroyed Reira's designated cards.
"Since Nightmare Rewind Loop was destroyed, its effect activates." Reira said. "Thanks to it, I can draw one card from my Deck for every "C/C/C" Monster on my field, in this case one."
"Battle!" Yusuke exclaimed. "Clear Noxious Reaper, attack Sonic Halberd! At this moment, Clear Noxious Reaper's effect activates! When it battles an opponent's Monster while Clear World is on the field, I can banish it before damage calculation occurs! Clean Purge!"
The scythes attached to Noxious Reaper's arms extended outwards, piercing through Sonic Halberd and causing it to vanish.
"This will finish you, brat!" Yusuke shouted. "Clear Void Sorcerer, attack him directly! Clean Oblivion!"
"I activate the effect of the Continuous Trap Card Persona Shutter – Revive in my Graveyard!" Reira declared. "When I'm about to receive a direct attack, I can Special Summon this card as a Normal Monster from my Graveyard in attack mode with the same original attack, defense, type, Level and attribute as the attacking Monster! Come, my Monster (ATK: 2800/DEF: 2000/LV: 8)!"
An ornate lens-like device emerged from a portal that appeared on Reira's field, taking the form of Clear Void Sorcerer.
"In that case, Clear Void Sorcerer, destroy that pathetic copy!" Yusuke shouted. "And thanks to my Monster's effect, any battle damage you receive from battles involving "Clear" Monsters I control and Monsters you control is doubled! Take this! Clean Oblivion!"
Clear Void Sorcerer emerged from its transparent crystal and conjured a magic circle, unleashing a wave of darkness that consumed its copy and sent Reira tumbling backwards.
Reira – LP: 2450→1450
"Reira!" Yusho shouted with evident concern. "Are you alright!?"
"I'm OK…" Reira said as he slowly got up. "No problem at all."
"Tch, you're a stubborn one, aren't you?" Yusuke clicked his tongue in irritation. "Still, you won't hold up for much longer at this rate. I place one card face-down and end my turn."
"My turn." Reira announced. "Draw. I summon C/C One-Eyed Mirage Eye (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 3)."
The Monster that resembled a mechanical eye that seemed to be phasing in and out of existence appeared on Reira's field.
"One-Eyed Mirage Eye is treated as One-Eyed Past Eye as long as it's on the field." Reira stated. "Then, I activate the Ritual Spell Card Mirror Ritual, whose effect allows me to Ritual Summon a "C/C" Ritual Monster by sending Monsters whose Levels match or exceed that Ritual Monster's Level to the Graveyard. I tribute Mirage Eye in order to Ritual Summon!"
A large mirror appeared on Reira's field, with Mirage Eye being absorbed by it. As a towering pillar of flames erupted from it, Reira chanted.
"Ritual Summon! Come forth, Level 3! C/C One-Eyed Demon Eye (Dark/Fiend/Ritual/Effect/ATK: 1000/DEF: 300/LV: 3)!"
A demonic-looking eye attached to a camera-shaped machine appeared on Reira's field, letting out an ominous glow.
"I activate One-Eyed Demon Eye's effect." Reira declared. "Once per turn, I can target a Monster my opponent controls and Special Summon a Token with the same type, Level, attack and defense as it, but a different attribute of my choice on their field. I will target your Clear Void Sorcerer and Special Summon a Remnant Token with its attribute being Light. Come, Remnant Token (ATK: 2800/DEF: 2000/LV: 8)!"
Demon Eye opened wide and shone, causing a copy of Clear Void Sorcerer that was surrounded by golden light to appear on Yusuke's field.
"In addition, I will activate the Spell Card Pot of Greed to draw two cards from my Deck." Reira continued. "Next, I will banish Mirror Ritual in order to add a Spell Card from my Deck to my hand whose description includes the word "C/C". I choose the Quick-Play Spell Card Past Tuning and activate it, targeting the Remnant Token in order to treat this card as a Level 5 Monster with the same type, attribute, attack and defense as your Monster, while also treating Demon Eye as a Tuner Monster. Now, I tune the Level 5 copy of Remnant Token with the Level 3 One-Eyed Demon Eye!"
As Reira's Spell Card turned into five stars and Demon Eye turned into three rings surrounding them, Reira chanted.
"Echo of the nefarious spellcaster! Synchronize with this eye and grant me your power! Synchro Summon! Come forth, Level 8! C/C/C Radiant Artillery the Embodiment of Tuned Attacks (Light/Fiend/Synchro/Effect/ATK: 2800/DEF: 0/LV: 8)!"
A pair of massive mechanical cannons with intricate, geometric patterns engraved on them appeared on Reira's field, letting out a soft glow.
"Since you have a Light-attribute Monster on your field, Clear World's effect activates." Yusuke stated. "Thanks to it, your hand must be revealed at all times."
"So the Light attribute forces you to reveal your hand…" Yusho commented. "We couldn't see that effect in action since that Fujiwara fellow's hand was empty when the Light-attribute Remnant Token was summoned to his field. Still, Reira must have judged that the effect shouldn't be something that debilitating since his opponent didn't appear to suffer from any negative effects. Well played."
"Since Remnant Token was targeted by a card effect, its own effect activates, destroying it." Reira said as the Remnant Token disappeared. "I activate Radiant Artillery's effect. Once per turn, I can target a "C/C/C" Monster in my Graveyard or banish zone and attach it to Radiant Artillery as an Equip Spell Card. Moreover, Radiant Artillery gains attack equal to half of the equipped Monster's attack. I choose to equip the 3000 attack Sonic Halberd from my banish zone (Radiant Artillery ATK: 2800→4300). Finally, when Radiant Artillery battles, my opponent cannot activate face-down Spell or Trap Cards. Now, let's battle! Radiant Artillery, destroy Clear Void Sorcerer!"
"Clear Wall's effect activates!" Yusuke bellowed. "Thanks to its effect, attack position "Clear" Monsters cannot be destroyed by battle!"
Following Yusuke's words, Radiant Artillery unleashed two massive blasts of energy that struck Clear Void Sorcerer and generated a powerful shockwave that sent Yusuke flying.
Yusuke – LP: 2000→1000
"Radiant Artillery's effect activates!" Reira exclaimed. "If this card successfully attacked an opponent's Monster, I can send the equipped Monster to the Graveyard in order to destroy all of my opponent's Monsters whose Level is equal to or lower than the sent Monster's Level. I will send the Level 8 Sonic Halberd to the Graveyard (Radiant Artillery ATK: 4300→2800) in order to destroy both your Monsters!"
Radiant Artillery launched two spheres of energy that struck Yusuke's Monsters and destroyed them.
"In that case, I activate the Trap Card Attribute Transmutation!" Yusuke stated. "Thanks to its effect, I can change the attribute of all Monsters you control into attributes of my choice until the start of my turn! I will change your Monster's attribute to Fire!"
"Fire…" Reira muttered. "I place one card face-down and end my turn. At this moment, Radiant Artillery would be destroyed by Past Tuning's effect. However, I will banish Demon Eye from my Graveyard in order to prevent its destruction."
"Since you control a Fire-attribute Monster, Clear World's effect activates!" Yusuke let out a sinister grin. "During the End Phase, you'll receive 1000 points of damage! Take this!"
A torrent of flames erupted from one of the large crystals hovering above the field, enveloping Reira and causing him to let out a cry of pain.
Reira – LP: 1400→400
"It's my turn!" Yusuke announced. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Life-Shaving Treasure Cards in order to draw five cards from my Deck. In exchange, I have to send my entire hand to the Graveyard during the fifth Standby Phase after activating this card. Next, I activate the Equip Spell Card Clear Vault, whose effect allows me to target a "Clear" Monster in my Graveyard, Special Summon it and equip it with this card. I choose to Special Summon Clear Noxious Reaper!"
A portal appeared on the ground, with Clear Noxious Reaper emerging from it and landing on the ground.
"I activate the Spell Card Fusion in order to fuse Clear Noxious Reaper on my field and Clear Vice Dragon in my hand!" As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yusuke chanted. "Hollow existences traversing the unblemished world of void! Join together as one and transformed into the depraved dragon of decay eroding the foundations of the world! Fusion Summon! Come forth, Level 10! Clear Impurity Dragon (Dark/Dragon/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 0→500/DEF: 0/LV: 10)!"
A large dragon with four wings, whose body was composed or pale, rotting flesh with its bones being exposed in various places, that was encased inside a transparent crystal appeared on Yusuke's field.
"I activate Clear Impurity Dragon's effect." Yusuke declared. "Once per turn, I can reduce the attack of all Monsters my opponent controls to 0 and have this card gain attack equal to twice the total amount lost by those Monsters. Do it, Clear Impurity Dragon!"
Yusuke's Monster let out a resounding howl that echoed across the corridor, causing cracks to appear on Radiant Artillery's body.
(Radiant Artillery ATK: 2800→0, Clear Impurity Dragon ATK: 500→6100)
"Battle!" Yusuke exclaimed. "Clear Impurity Dragon, destroy his pitiful Monster and end this! Clean Corruption Blaze!"
"I activate my Trap Card, Past Viewing!" Reira stated. "Through its effect, I can release a "C/C/C" Monster in order to Special Summon a "C/C" Monster from my Deck! I will Special Summon a second copy of One-Eyed Past Eye from my Deck in defense mode!"
Radiant Artillery disappeared from Reira's field following his words, with Past Eye taking its place.
"If you think that's enough to save you, you're sorely mistaken!" Yusuke bellowed. "Clear Impurity Dragon's effect activates! When this card attacks a Monster, I can change that Monster's battle position! As such, your Past Eye will be switched to attack mode! This is the end, brat!"
"No, it's not." Reira stated. "Due to Past Viewing's effect, Past Eye cannot be destroyed by battle and the battle damage from any battles involving it is reduced to 0 for this turn."
Following Reira's words, Clear Impurity Dragon unleashed a powerful flame that struck Past Eye, but failed to destroy it as a semi-transparent barrier appeared around it, shielding it from the blast.
"Damn you…" Yusuke cursed. "In that case, I activate the Continuous Spell Card Rule of Nihility. Thanks to its effect, your Monsters can only attack Monsters that have the same attribute as them. But since "Clear" Monsters have no attribute, your attacks will be completely sealed with this. I end my turn."
"My turn." Reira announced. "Draw. I activate the Spell Card Past Recall. Through its effect, I can destroy C/C One-Eyed Past Eye on my field in order to Special Summon a "C/C/C" Monster from my Extra Deck with the same summoning type as that of a Monster on my opponent's field by ignoring its summoning conditions. However, that Monster cannot declare an attack as long as it remains face-up on the field. Come forth, C/C/C Water Bardiche the Embodiment of Fused Arms (Water/Fiend/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 3000/DEF: 0/LV: 8)!"
An ornate cyan-colored axe with a gem-encrusted handle that was surrounded by a bluish aura appeared on Reira's field.
"Next, I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Persona Break, whose effect allows me to destroy a "C/C/C" Monster on my field." Reira continued. "In exchange, I gain Life Points equal to half that Monster's attack."
Following Reira's words, Water Bardiche was destroyed, with a blue aura surrounding him.
Reira – LP: 400→1900
"Since Water Bardiche was destroyed by a card effect, its effect activates." Reira declared. "Thanks to it, I can destroy all cards on the field."
"What!?" Yusuke cried out in surprise. "Still, thanks to its effect, Clear Impurity Dragon cannot be destroyed by card effects once during either player's turn. In addition, it can also prevent one more card from being destroyed by the same card effect! I choose to protect Clear World!"
A massive wave appeared on the field following Yusuke's words, destroying all cards apart from his Monster and Clear World.
"Since Clear Radiance was destroyed, your Monster's attack is lowered (Clear Impurity Dragon ATK: 6100→5600)." Reira stated. "Then, I activate the Spell Card Joint Past Loop. Through its effect, I can target a Monster on the field and change its attribute into an attribute of my choice, along with negating its effects. Then, I can Special Summon a "C/C/C" Monster from my Graveyard with the same attribute as the targeted Monster. I will change your Clear Impurity Dragon's attribute to Water in order to Special Summon Water Bardiche from my Graveyard!"
A portal appeared on the ground, with Water Bardiche emerging from it and landing on Reira's field.
"Battle!" Reira exclaimed. "Water Bardiche, attack Clear Impurity Dragon! At this moment, Water Bardiche's effect activates! When this card battles a Water-attribute Monster, I can shuffle that Monster back to the Extra Deck before damage calculation and inflict damage to my opponent equal to that Monster's attack on the field!"
Water Bardiche shot forward following Reira's words, striking Clear Impurity Dragon and generating a torrent of water that headed straight for Yusuke.
"I won't let you!" Yusuke shouted. "I activate the effect of Rule of Nihility in my Graveyard! By banishing this card when I'm about to receive damage, I can reduce that damage to 0!"
A semi-transparent barrier appeared around Yusuke, shielding him from the torrent of water.
"There's nothing more I can do for now." Reira said. "I end my turn."
"At this moment, Clear World's effect activates, forcing you to send one card from your hand to the Graveyard since you control a Water-attribute Monster." Yusuke said. "However, that's meaningless since you have no cards in your hand. Now then, it's my turn! Draw! I activate the Spell Card Angel's Charity, whose effect allows me to draw three cards from my Deck and discard two. Then, I activate the effect of the discarded Clear Fusion, banishing it along with Clear Vice Dragon, Clear Noxious Reaper and Clear Void Sorcerer in order to Fusion Summon!"
As his three Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yusuke chanted.
"Hollow existences traversing the unblemished world of void! Join together as one and become the iron fist of the tyrant ruling over the empyrean realm! Fusion Summon! Awaken now, Level 10! Clear Malevolent Emperor (ATK: 4000/DEF: 3000/LV: 10)!"
An imposing Monster, which was clad entirely in pure white and violet-colored armor with six differently-colored wings extending from its back and holding a large battle axe, that was encased in a large transparent crystal appeared on Yusuke's field.
"I activate the Spell Card Clear Alchemy." Yusuke continued. "Through its effect, you can draw from one up to six cards from your Deck, with a "Clear" Monster on my field gaining 500 attack for each drawn card. Of course, I choose Clear Malevolent Emperor as the target."
"In that case, I choose to draw one card." Reira said. "That means your Monster gains only 500 attack (Clear Malevolent Emperor ATK: 4000→4500)."
"Next, I activate Clear Malevolent Emperor's effect." Yusuke smirked. "Once per turn, I can declare an attribute, and if my opponent controls Monsters of that attribute, I can apply one of my Monster's effect. I choose the Water attribute, and since you have one such Monster, you have to discard one card from your hand while I can draw one from my Deck. Now, let's settle this, brat! Battle! Clear Malevolent Emperor, destroy Water Bardiche! Clean Death Decree!"
Clear Malevolent Emperor exited the crystal and struck Water Bardiche with its axe, destroying it and sending Reira tumbling backwards as he screamed.
Reira – LP: 1900→400
"With it's farewell, you little runt." Yusuke let out a sinister smile. "I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Nihilistic Outcome, whose effect allows a "Clear" Monster that destroyed an opponent's Monster by battle to attack once again! Finish him off, Clear Malevolent Emperor! Clean Death Decree!"
"I activate the effect of Joint Past Loop in my Graveyard!" Reira declared. "Since I'm about to receive a direct attack, I can banish this card in order to Special Summon the Monster summoned due to its effect from my Graveyard with its effects negated! Revive, Water Bardiche in defense mode!"
Following Reira's words, Water Bardiche returned to the field, only to receive Clear Malevolent Emperor's attack and disappear within an explosion.
"How needlessly stubborn…" Yusuke grumbled. "However, you won't be able to escape for much longer with your petty tricks. I activate the Continuous Spell Card Nihilistic Annihilation Technique. Through its effect, I can inflict 500 points of damage to you for every "Clear" Monster I control during each of my Standby Phases. As such, once my next turn comes, you're finished, privileged brat! I end my turn! Now, show me your last, pathetic struggle before your inevitable demise! And become another part of the foundation for the ideal world!"
"You're wrong…"
"What was that?" Yusuke raised an eyebrow at the unexpected words that came out of Reira's mouth. "Did you say I'm wrong? Don't tell me that you actually think there's still a possibility of you winning? If so, then you're truly deluded, child."
"That's not it." Reira shook his head. "Your view of the world…is really sad and lonely. The ideal you seek…I was just like that before. Empty, hollow, a vessel that could only capture the light of others in order to shine. However…upon meeting my comrades, the Lancers, that slowly changed. Each and every one of them is unique, shining with their own beautiful color. I learned from all of them…what bravery, kindness and compassion truly mean."
Reira raised his head and stared at Yusuke with a strong gaze, causing the Academia agent to flinch.
"…I will reject this world of yours. You only experienced pain and suffering from other people, but I gained strength and conviction from them. People can only truly shine when their light blends together. That's why, I will defeat you and free you from this curse."
"Reira…" Reiji let out a small smile. "It seems you've grown quite a bit."
"Nonsense." Yusuke scoffed at Reira's words. "You speak big, but I have the overwhelming advantage here. If you think you can defeat me, just try it!"
"My turn." Reira announced. "Draw. I activate the effect of Past Recall, banishing it and Water Bardiche from my Graveyard in order to Special Summon C/C One-Eyed Past Eye from my Graveyard."
A portal appeared on the ground, with Past Eye emerging from it and landing on Reira's field.
"Next, I activate the Spell Card Reflective Ray." Reira continued. "Through its effect, I can target a Spell Card in my Graveyard and apply its effects if possible if I control a "C/C" Monster. I choose Reel Fusion, using its effect in order to target a Monster my opponent controls and Special Summon a Token with the same name, Level and original attribute as it on their field. I will target your Clear Malevolent Emperor. Come, Reel Token (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 10)."
A camera lens appeared out of Reira's Spell Card, emitting a wave of light that created a copy of Clear Malevolent Emperor on Yusuke's field.
"Using Reel Fusion's effect, I will fuse One-Eyed Past Eye with your Reel Token!" As the two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Reira chanted. "Tyrannical ruler of the empyrean realm! Dwell in this eye and grant me your power! Fusion Summon! Come forth, Level 8! C/C/C Shadow Greatsword the Embodiment of Fused Arms (Dark/Fiend/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 3000/DEF: 0/LV: 8)!"
A large, obsidian-colored cleaver with a demonic eye attached to its hilt and a flesh-like substance covering parts of the blade's body appeared on Reira's field.
"How foolish." Yusuke sneered. "What can you do with merely 3000 attack? Not to mention, Clear World's effect prevents you from declaring an attack as long as you control a Dark-attribute Monster. Or did you perhaps forget about that?"
"I haven't forgotten about that." Reira stated. "Shadow Greatsword's effect activates! When this card is Fusion Summoned, I can negate the effects of all cards on my opponent's field!"
"What!?" Yusuke cried out in shock. "All card effects, you say!?"
A dark mist emerged from the blade following Reira's words, enveloping the field and causing the scenery to return back to its former state, while the crystal encasing Clear Malevolent Emperor lost its shine.
"Battle!" Reira exclaimed. "Shadow Greatsword, attack Clear Malevolent Emperor! And since its effect is negated, it's treated as a Dark-attribute Monster, meaning I can activate my Monster's effect! Thanks to it, when it battles a Dark-attribute Monster, I can destroy that Monster before damage calculation and inflict damage to its opponent equal to its attack on the field! Do it, Shadow Greatsword!"
Reira's Monster shot forward, piercing through Clear Malevolent Emperor and destroying it, with Yusuke being sent flying backwards due to the explosion and right into Nightshroud's feet.
Yusuke – LP: 1000→0
Reira: WIN
"Unbelievable…" Yusuke grimaced. "To think that I would lose…to a good-for-nothing brat… Teacher, help me up… I…can still fight!"
Nightshroud gazed at Yusuke for a few seconds, and then slowly pointed his Duel Disk at him.
"Oi, what do you think you're doing…?" Yusuke asked with clear agitation. "Don't tell me you—!"
"I'm afraid you must abide by the outcome of the Duel, Yusuke." Nightshroud declared. "In addition, your warped ideals are unnecessary for the future the Professor envisions. Thank you for being his strength until this point and for your services."
"Wait! I still—"
Yusuke's words were cut off as he was bathed in violet light, turning into a card that Nightshroud promptly placed on his Duel Disk, with the card turning into particles and disappearing. He then turned his sight towards his opponents, noticing that Reiji had stepped forward, with Reira having run to his side.
"You did very well, Reira." Reiji patted the young boy's head. "As expected of my younger brother, you've made me proud once again. I'll handle the rest, so feel free to relax."
"Yes, Nii-sama."
Reira nodded and walked to Yusho's side. Reiji then directed a reproachful gaze at Nightshroud.
"To think that you would do that to your own student of all people, I guess you Academia people have little loyalty to one another. How deplorable."
"That's not something you should concern yourself with, Akaba Reiji." Nightshroud stated. "You should be more worried about yourself and your companions. I declared that I would take you down, and I intend to keep my word."
"Before that, answer my question." Yusho suddenly spoke. "Your sister, Asuka, what did you do to her?"
"My little sister is quite popular I see." Nightshroud smirked. "The last person who shared her fate, Tenjo Kaito, also seemed quite concerned for her."
"Kaito…" Yusho muttered as he glared at Nightshroud. "So not only you took down Kaito, but your own sister as well? Have you really no conscience whatsoever left, Tenjoin Fubuki?"
"Don't use the name of my ignorant and weak self to address me, Sakaki Yusho." Nightshroud spoke with a cold tone. "As for my conscience, I discarded it long ago along with anything else in order to accomplish the Professor's goal."
"Another foolishly loyal person who blindly follows my dear father, huh?" Reiji snorted. "In that case, there's no need for any further words. I'll take you down and that's that."
"You will try." Nightshroud said. "Now, let's begin!"
[Duel!]
Both Duelists shouted together as they activated their Duel Disks.
Reiji – LP: 4000
Nightshroud – LP: 4000
"I'll take the first turn." Reiji announced. "I activate the effect of D/D Lamia in my hand, sending D/D Necro Slime from my hand to the Graveyard in order to Special Summon it (ATK: 100/DEF: 1900/LV: 1)!"
A Monster whose upper half was that of a woman and its bottom half was that of a snake appeared on Reiji's field.
"Next, I summon D/D Baphomet (ATK: 1400/DEF: 1800/LV: 4)."
Following Reiji's words, a demonic, winged Monster appeared on Reiji's field.
"I activate D/D Baphomet's effect." Reiji continued. "Thanks to it, I can target a "D/D" Monster on my field, declare a Level from 1 to 8 and make that Monster's Level equal to the declared Level. I choose to make D/D Lamia a Level 3 Monster (Lamia LV: 1→3). Then, I tune the Level 4 D/D Baphomet with the Level 3 D/D Lamia!"
As D/D Baphomet turned into four stars and D/D Lamia turned into three rings surrounding them, Reiji chanted.
"The blood washed away by time! Become the sacrifice for the advent of the new king that obtained the speed of the gale itself! Synchro Summon! Be born, Level 7! D/D/D Gale King Alexander (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7)!"
An armored warrior wreathed in winds and holding a large sword appeared on the field.
"Since it was Special Summoned through its own effect, D/D Lamia is banished." Reiji stated. "Next, I activate the effect of D/D Necro Slime in my Graveyard, banishing it and D/D Baphomet in order to Fusion Summon!"
As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Reiji chanted once again.
"Arcane swirl that takes in all forms! Engulf the grotesque god, become one and give birth to a new king! Fusion Summon! Be born, Level 6! D/D/D Raging Inferno King Temujin (ATK: 2000/DEF: 1500/LV: 6)!"
An imposing warrior wreathed in flames and holding a large crimson broadsword and shield appeared on the field next to Alexander.
"I activate the Spell Card Contract with the Mad King." Reiji declared. "Through its effect, I can inflict 300 points of damage to my opponent for every "D/D/D" Monster with a different summoning type that I control, along with drawing one card from my Deck for every such Monster. In exchange, I cannot conduct my Battle Phase during this turn. Since there are two such Monsters, I'll draw two cards from my Deck and inflict 600 points of damage to you!"
Two bolts of violet lightning erupted from Reiji's card, striking Nightshroud and causing him to wince.
Nightshroud – LP: 4000→3400
"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Reiji said. "Now, let's see how strong my father's favorite lapdog is."
"A Fusion and a Synchro Monster on the first turn without the aid of Pendulum Summon…" Nightshroud muttered. "As expected of the Professor's son, your skill appears to be quite high. However, in order to protect the world from the upcoming disaster, I'm not allowed to lose here. My turn. Draw. I activate the Spell Card One for One, whose effect allows me to send a Monster from my hand to the Graveyard in order to Special Summon a Level 1 Monster from my Deck. Come, Black of Legend (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 1)!"
A black stone with red cracks on it appeared on Nightshroud's field.
"I activate Black of Legend's effect, releasing it in order to Special Summon a Level 7 or lower "Red-Eyes" Monster from my Deck." Nightshroud declared. "Come, Red-Eyes Psycho Shocker (Dark/Machine/Effect/ATK: 2400/DEF: 1500/LV: 6)!"
A Monster resembling an imposing android clad in black and crimson armor appeared on Nightshroud's field.
"Red-Eyes Psycho Shocker's effect activates." Nightshroud continued. "When this card is summoned successfully, I can Special Summon a Level 4 or lower Dark-attribute Monster from my Graveyard. Revive, Black Dragon's Chick (Dark/Dragon/Effect/ATK: 800/DEF: 500/LV: 1)!"
A red egg with a small, black dragon emerging from it appeared on Nightshroud's field.
"I activate Black Dragon's Chick's effect." Nightshroud stated. "By releasing this card, I can Special Summon this Monster from my hand. Come, the pitch-black dragon embodying infinite potential, Red-Eyes Black Dragon (ATK: 2400/DEF: 2000/LV: 7)!"
Nightshroud's signature Monster appeared on the field, letting a resonant howl in the process.
"In addition, I activate Black Metal Dragon's effect in my hand, equipping it to Red-Eyes Black Dragon in order to increase its attack by 600 (Red-Eyes Black Dragon ATK: 2400→3000)." Nightshroud continued. "Then, I activate Red-Eyes Psycho Shocker's effect. Once per turn, if I control another "Red-Eyes" Monster, I can target a face-down card in my opponent's Spell/Trap Card Zone and destroy it, with cards and effects being unable to be activated in response to this effect. I will destroy your face-down card. Suppressor Gaze!"
Two beams erupted from Psycho Shocker's eyes following Nightshroud's words, destroying Reiji's face-down card.
"Battle!" Nightshroud exclaimed. "Red-Eyes Black Dragon, destroy Gale King Alexander! Dark Flame Shot!"
A crimson sphere erupted from Red-Eyes Black Dragon's maw, striking Alexander and destroying it, with the shockwave causing Reiji to grimace.
Reiji – LP: 4000→3500
"It's your turn, Red-Eyes Psycho Shocker!" Nightshroud stated. "Destroy Raging Inferno King Temujin! Dark Energy Shock!"
Psycho Shocker extended its palms forward, generating a sphere of energy that struck Temujin and destroyed it, causing Reiji to wince due to the stray sparks that struck him.
Reiji – LP: 3500→3100
"That should suffice for now." Nightshroud said. "I place one card face-down and end my turn."
"It's my turn!" Reiji announced. "Draw! I activate the Continuous Spell Card Forbidden Contract with the Devil King. Through its effect, once per turn, I can Special Summon a Level 5 or higher Fiend-type Monster from my hand, but that Monster cannot attack, its effects are negated, and it's destroyed during the End Phase. Appear now, the supreme deity that passes judgment upon the twilight of the gods! D/D/D Oblivion King Abyss Ragnarok (Dark/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 2200/DEF: 3000/LV: 8/SC: 5)!"
A demonic Monster sitting on a stone throne with several cables extending from its back appeared on Reiji's field.
"I activate the Spell Card Daemon King's Advent, which allows me to Special Summon a non-Pendulum "D/D/D" Monster from my Deck with its effects negated if I control another "D/D/D" Monster." Reiji declared. "Come, D/D/D Supreme Dragon King Pendragon (ATK: 2600/DEF: 2400/LV: 7)!"
A winged armored dragon appeared on Reiji's field, letting out a furious howl.
"Next, I activate the second effect of Forbidden Contract with the Devil King, which allows me to perform a Fusion Summon by using Monsters from my hand or field as materials, including the Monster summoned by this card's effect." Reiji continued. "I will fuse Supreme Dragon King Pendragon and Oblivion King Abyss Ragnarok!"
As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Reiji chanted.
"Crush the twilight of gods, and with the force of your surging wave, open up a new world! Fusion Summon! Come before me, Level 10! Autocratic god of limits, D/D/D Wave Oblivion King Caesar Ragnarok (Dark/Fiend/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 3200/DEF: 3000/LV: 10)!"
An imposing Monster surrounded by a blue aura that was clad in violet armor with spikes protruding from it and had cable-shaped whips extending from its back, along with sitting on a stone throne, appeared on Reiji's field.
"Battle!" Reiji exclaimed. "Caesar Ragnarok, attack Red-Eyes Psycho Shocker! At this moment, Caesar Ragnarok's effect activates! When an attack is declared involving this card, I can return a "D/D" or "Contract" card on my field back to the hand in order to equip one of my opponent's Monsters to Caesar Ragnarok! Moreover, Caesar Ragnarok gains attack equal to that Monster's attack! I choose to equip your Red-Eyes Black Dragon!"
The whips extending from Caesar Ragnarok's back shot forward, entangling Red-Eyes Black Dragon and turning it into a sphere of energy that was absorbed by Caesar Ragnarok.
(Caesar Ragnarok ATK: 3200→5600)
"The attack resumes!" Reiji stated. "Destroy his Monster, Caesar Ragnarok! The End of Judgment!"
"Not so fast!" Nightshroud shouted. "I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Red-Eyes Overcharge! Thanks to its effect, when a "Red-Eyes" Monster on my field battles a Monster with a higher attack, I can double that Monster's attack (Red-Eyes Psycho Shocker ATK: 2400→4800)! In exchange, that Monster will be destroyed during the Battle Phase's end!"
Caesar Ragnarok extended its hand forward following Nightshroud's words, unleashing an energy blast that pierced through Red-Eyes Psycho Shocker and destroyed it, with Nightshroud being blown backwards due to the ensuing explosion.
Nightshroud – LP: 3400→2600
"Since Black Metal Dragon was sent to the Graveyard, its effect activates." Nightshroud stated as he stood up, dusting himself. "Thanks to it, I can add a "Red-Eyes" card from my Deck to my hand. I choose the Spell Card Red-Eyes Fusion."
"I activate the effect of Contract with the Mad King from my Graveyard." Reiji declared. "By banishing this card from my Graveyard along with a "Contract" card from my hand, I can draw three cards from my Deck. However, if there are no "D/D" Monsters in the drawn cards, I must send my entire hand to the Graveyard and receive 1000 points of damage for every discarded card. Now, let's draw!"
Reiji drew three cards, checking them briefly before speaking.
"Since there was a "D/D" Monster among the drawn cards, I don't have to discard anything." Reiji said. "I place one card face-down and end my turn."
"As expected, Nii-sama is performing flawlessly." Reira commented. "However, his opponent also seems to be quite strong."
"So far, they've only been feeling each other out, each of them trying to grasp each other's style and skill." Yusho remarked. "The real deal will probably start about now."
"My turn." Nightshroud announced. "Draw. I activate the Spell Card Red-Eyes Fusion, using its effect to send Red-Eyes Black Flare Dragon and Red-Eyes Doomstar Dragon – Meteor Dragon from my Deck to the Graveyard in order to perform a Fusion Summon with them!"
As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Nightshroud chanted.
"Dragon of darkness bearing the raging inferno! Soar across the skies with the speed of a shooting star and transform everything before you into a burning wasteland! Fusion Summon! Descend now, Level 8! Comet Dragon – Meteor Black Dragon (ATK: 3500/DEF: 2000/LV: 8)!"
The Monster resembling a dragon cloaked in flames with a body made out of volcanic rock and a dragon head attached on its chest appeared on Nightshroud's field.
"Meteor Black Dragon's effect activates." Nightshroud declared. "When this card is Fusion Summoned successfully, I can send a "Red-Eyes" Monster from my hand or Deck to the Graveyard in order to inflict damage to you equal to half its attack. I choose to send the 2800 attack Red-Eyes Darkness Metal Dragon from my Deck to the Graveyard in order to inflict 1400 points of damage to you!"
Meteor Black Dragon opened its maw wide, unleashing a dragon-shaped torrent of flames that enveloped Reiji, causing to grunt in pain.
Reiji – LP: 3100→1700
"Next, I activate the Spell Card Fusion Treasure, which allows me to draw one card from my Deck for every Fusion Monster on the field." Nightshroud continued. "In addition, if my opponent controls the Fusion Monster with the highest attack on the field, I can draw one more card from my Deck. Next, I activate the Equip Spell Card Pitch-Black Scale Array, equipping it to Meteor Black Dragon. Normally, this card can only be equipped to "Red-Eyes" Monsters, but Red-Eyes Fusion's effect changes the name of the summoned Monster to "Red-Eyes Black Dragon", so it can be used here. Now, let's battle! Meteor Black Dragon, attack Caesar Ragnarok!"
"He's attacking even though his Monster's attack is lower?" Yusho wondered. "Surely, this must be…"
"I activate the equipped Pitch-Black Scale Array's effect!" Nightshroud exclaimed. "When the equipped Monster declares an attack, I can target a Spell or Trap Card on the field and destroy it! I will destroy the equipped Red-Eyes Black Dragon, reducing Caesar Ragnarok's attack (Caesar Ragnarok ATK: 5600→3200)! Do it, Meteor Black Dragon! Darkness Giga Impact!"
An oversized sphere of molten lava erupted from the dragon's maw, striking Caesar Ragnarok and obliterating it, with Reiji wincing due to the ensuing shockwave.
Reiji – LP: 1700→1400
"I hope this isn't the full extent of your power, or this is going to be over very soon." Nightshroud said. "I place one card face-down and end my turn."
"It's my turn!" Reiji announced. "Draw! I activate the Continuous Spell Card Contract with the Hellgate, whose effect allows me to add a "D/D" Monster from my Deck to my hand. In exchange, I'll receive 1000 points of damage during each of my Standby Phases. I choose to add D/D Magical Savant Paracelsus from my Deck to my hand. Then, using the Scale 1 D/D/D Knowledge King Tomb Conquistador (Dark/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2000/LV: 10/SC: 1) and the Scale 12 D/D Magical Savant Paracelsus (Dark/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 0/DEF: 600/LV: 1/SC: 12), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"
Two columns of light appeared on Reiji's sides, with an oddly-shaped device that contained a large brain within it and a complex machine resembling a distiller rising to their top.
"Due to Paracelsus's Pendulum Effect, the Pendulum Scale of the Monster in the other Pendulum Zone is doubled (Tomb Conquistador SC: 1→2)." Reiji stated. "Now, with my current scale, I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 3 through 11. O grand power that shakes my very soul! Arise within me and give birth to a new light that rends the darkness! Pendulum Summon! Revive from the Extra Deck, Abyss Ragnarok! And from my hand, come forth, D/D/D Great Death Lord – Hell Armageddon (ATK: 3000/DEF: 1000/LV: 8/SC: 4)!"
A massive wave of energy erupted from Reiji's Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Abyss Ragnarok and a Monster resembling a giant crystal with a robotic head attached to it and a pulsating core in its center.
"So this is the fabled Pendulum Summon…" Nightshroud muttered. "How magnificent indeed…"
"Magical Savant Paracelsus's Pendulum Effect activates." Reiji declared. "Each time I Pendulum Summon a "D/D/D" Monster, I can draw a card from my Deck. Since I Pendulum Summoned two such Monsters, I can draw two cards from my Deck. Then, I summon D/D Lilith (ATK: 100/DEF: 2100/LV: 4)!"
The female figure with a serpent-like lower body and a single wing on its back appeared on Reiji's field.
"D/D Lilith's effect activates, allowing me to add a "D/D" Monster from my Graveyard to my hand." Reiji continued. "I choose Supreme Dragon King Pendragon. Then, I activate Abyss Ragnarok's effect. Once per turn, I can tribute a "D/D" Monster in order to banish a Monster on my opponent's field. I will release D/D Lilith in order to banish your Meteor Black Dragon!"
The cables extending from Abyss Ragnarok's back shot forward, striking Meteor Black Dragon and causing it to burst into numerous particles that scattered on the air.
"However, the effect of Pitch-Black Scale Array activates." Nightshroud abruptly said. "If this card is sent from the field to the Graveyard before my opponent's next Battle Phase, my opponent can only declare an attack with a single Monster during that Battle Phase."
"In that case, I'll use Hell Armageddon to attack you directly!" Reiji exclaimed. "The End of World!"
"I won't let you!" Nightshroud shouted. "I activate the Trap Card Rising Red-Eyes! Through its effect, if my opponent's Monster is about to declare an attack, I can target a Red-Eyes Black Dragon in my Graveyard, Special Summon it in attack position and force my opponent to attack it! Furthermore, that Monster cannot be destroyed by that battle! Revive, Red-Eyes Black Dragon!"
Following Nightshroud's words, a portal appeared on the ground, with Red-Eyes Black Dragon emerging from it. Immediately afterwards, Hell Armageddon unleashed a barrage of violet-colored energy blasts that struck the dragon, but failed to destroy it, although the ensuing shockwave sent Nightshroud skidding backwards.
Nightshroud – LP: 2600→2000
"As expected, I'll need to exert myself much more in order to defeat you." Reiji said. "I end my turn with that."
"My turn." Nightshroud announced. "Draw. I activate the Spell Card Crimson Awakening – Infernal Fusion. Through its effect, I will return Red-Eyes Darkness Metal Dragon and Red-Eyes Doomstar Dragon – Meteor Dragon from my Graveyard back to the Deck in order to perform a Fusion Summon with them!"
As his two Monsters swirled inside a vortex of crimson-colored flames, Nightshroud chanted.
"Ferocious dragons embodying infinite potential! Let those blazing eyes of yours become the catalyst that will awaken the relentless warhound terrorizing the depths of the abyss! Fusion Summon! Arise now, Level 6! Crimson-Eyes Cagnazzo Dragon (Dark/Dragon/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 2400/DEF: 500/LV: 6)!"
A towering, amethyst-colored dragon with a muscular build, two hound heads extending from its shoulders, blazing crimson eyes, four legs extending from its lower half, chains around its limbs and inverted wings that pointed downwards appeared on Nightshroud's field, letting out a piercing howl that caused almost everyone present to wince.
"I activate Crimson-Eyes Cagnazzo Dragon's effect." Nightshroud declared. "Once per turn, I can target a "Red-Eyes" or "Crimson-Eyes" Monster I control apart from itself and increase my Life Points by an amount equal to half that Monster's attack. I choose the 2400 attack Red-Eyes Black Dragon, meaning that I'll regain 1200 Life Points."
Cagnazzo Dragon spread its malformed wings, scattering crimson particles that fell on Nightshroud's body, giving him a foreboding appearance.
Nightshroud – LP: 2000→3200
"Battle!" Nightshroud exclaimed. "Crimson-Eyes Cagnazzo Dragon, attack Hell Armageddon!"
"I don't know what you're planning by attacking with a Monster with lower attack than Hell Armageddon, but I don't intend to just stand there without doing anything." Reiji stated. "I activate the Continuous Trap Card Contract with the Valkyrie, whose effect increase the attack of all "D/D" Monsters on my field by 1000 during my opponent's turn (Hell Armageddon ATK: 3000→4000, Abyss Ragnarok ATK: 2200→3200)!" In exchange, I'll receive 1000 points of damage during each of my Standby Phases!"
"Even if you do that, it's useless!" Nightshroud shouted. "Cagnazzo Dragon's effect activates! When this card attacks an opponent's Monster while my Life Points are higher than theirs, its attack increases by an amount equal to the difference, in this case 1800 (Cagnazzo Dragon ATK: 2400→4200), until the End Phase! Do it, Cagnazzo Dragon! Downfall Pride Buster!"
Cagnazzo Dragon's three maws opened wide, unleashing a stream of crimson flames that vaporized Hell Armageddon, causing Reiji to wince from the intense heat.
Reiji – LP: 1400→1200
"As long as Cagnazzo Dragon remains on the field, all Monsters destroyed by battle are banished instead of being sent to the Graveyard, meaning your Pendulum Monsters cannot revive." Nightshroud stated. "Next, Red-Eyes Black Dragon, attack Abyss Ragnarok! And thanks to Cagnazzo Dragon's effect, when a "Red-Eyes" or "Crimson-Eyes" Monster apart from itself attacks an opponent's Monster while my Life Points are higher than theirs, that Monster gains attack equal to half the difference between our Life Points, in this case 1000 (Red-Eyes Black Dragon ATK: 2400→3400) until the End Phase! Do it, Red-Eyes Black Dragon! Dark Flame Shot!"
Red-Eyes Black Dragon opened its maw wide, unleashing a crimson blast that destroyed Abyss Ragnarok, with the ensuing shockwave sending Reiji skidding backwards.
Reiji – LP: 1200→1000
"Due to Cagnazzo Dragon's effect, your Abyss Ragnarok will also be banished." Nightshroud said. "I place a card face-down and end my turn, with my Monsters' attack returning to normal (Cagnazzo Dragon ATK: 4200→2400, Red-Eyes Black Dragon ATK: 3400→2400)."
"It's my turn!" Reiji announced. "Draw! During my Standby Phase, the effects of my two Contract cards activate, dealing 2000 points of damage to me. However, at this moment, Tomb Conquistador's Pendulum Effect activates. If I would receive damage from the effect of a "Contract" card, I gain that many Life Points instead. Therefore, I'll regain 2000 Life Points."
Following his words, Reiji was surrounded by a green-colored radiance that was generated from Tomb Conquistador.
Reiji – LP: 1000→3000
"So you also managed to restore your Life Points to a significant extent…" Nightshroud smirked. "As expected of a shrewd businessman, you know your way around contracts and their conditions."
"Manipulating even the disadvantageous parts of contracts to one's advantage is the basics of the basics after all." Reiji remarked as he straightened his glasses. "I activate the effect of Contract with the Hellgate in order to add D/D Vice Typhon from my Deck to my hand. Then, using my current Pendulum Scale, I will Pendulum Summon once more! Come, my Monsters! D/D/D Supreme Dragon King Pendragon, D/D Vice Typhon (ATK: 2300/DEF: 2800/LV: 7) and D/D/D Supersight King Zero Maxwell (ATK: 2800/DEF: 2500/LV: 7/SC: 4)!"
Three beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Reiji's Monsters upon landing on the field.
"Due to Paracelsus's Pendulum Effect, I will draw two cards from my Deck since I Pendulum Summoned two "D/D/D" Monsters." Reiji stated. "Next, I Overlay the Level 7 Vice Typhon and Supreme Dragon King Pendragon!"
As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Reiji chanted.
"Blood-soaked tyrant ruling over shadows! Emerge from your slumber and guide the wicked to the dusk of life! Xyz Summon! Arise now, Rank 7! D/D/D Ruthless Impalement King Vlad (Dark/Fiend/Xyz/Effect/ATK: 2700/DEF: 1700/R: 7/OU: 2)!"
A Monster clad in black plated armor with several spikes extending from it, which had two bat-shaped wings growing from its hand and held a crimson spear in its hands, appeared on Reiji's field.
"I activate Ruthless Impalement King Vlad's effect." Reiji declared. "Once per turn, I can detach an Overlay Unit from it in order to reduce the attack of all face-up Monsters my opponent controls to 0. Fortress of Impalement!"
Countless spikes suddenly erupted from the ground beneath Nightshroud's Monsters, piercing through them in numerous spots as they howled in agony.
(Red-Eyes Black Dragon ATK: 2400→0, Cagnazzo Dragon ATK: 2400→0)
"Next, I activate the effect of Daemon King's Advent in my Graveyard." Reiji continued. "By banishing this card, I can target a Monster in my Graveyard and treat it as a "D/D/D" Monster until the End Phase. I choose to target Vice Typhon, which was sent to the Graveyard in order to activate Vlad's effect. Then, I activate Vice Typhon's effect, banishing it along with D/D Lilith from my Graveyard in order to Fusion Summon a "D/D/D" Monster from my Extra Deck!"
As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Reiji chanted once again.
"Raging storm spirit, join together with the strange witness in the dark night, and become a dragon-slaying hero! Fusion Summon! Be born, Level 8! D/D/D Cruel Dragon King Beowulf (Dark/Fiend/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500/LV: 8)!"
A humanoid wolf Monster clad in armor with a cape extending from its back appeared on Reiji's field.
"Three "D/D/D" Monsters…" Yusho muttered. "Reiji fully intends to settle this during this turn…"
"Battle!" Reiji exclaimed. "Impalement King Vlad, destroy Crimson-Eyes Cagnazzo Dragon! Execution Thrust!"
"I activate the Continuous Trap Card Crimson Hell Gate!" Nightshroud abruptly stated. "Thanks to its effect, each time a "Red-Eyes" Monster or a Monster which was summoned by using a "Red-Eyes" Monster as material is destroyed by battle, I can reduce the battle damage to 0!"
Following Nightshroud's words, Cagnazzo Dragon was skewered by Impalement King Vlad's spear and was destroyed.
"Crimson Hell Gate's second effect activates." Nightshroud continued. "Each time one of the aforementioned Monsters is destroyed, I can place a Sin Counter on this card (Sin Counter: 0→1). In addition, Cagnazzo Dragon's effect activates, allowing me to Special Summon a "Red-Eyes" Monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated and its attack and defense at 0. Revive, Red-Eyes Psycho Shocker!"
A portal appeared on the ground, with Psycho Shocker emerging from it and landing on Nightshroud's field.
"In that case, Cruel Dragon King Beowulf will attack Red-Eyes Psycho Shocker!" Reiji shouted. "The End of Wyvern!"
Beowulf slashed at Psycho Shocker with its claws, shredding it to pieces and destroying it.
"Crimson Hell Gate's effect activates." Nightshroud said. "My card gains one more counter (Sin Counter: 1→2)."
"Finally, Zero Maxwell will destroy your Red-Eyes Black Dragon!" Reiji pointed at Nightshroud's final Monster. "Zero Scope Blast!"
A single ray of energy was unleashed from Zero Maxwell's telescope-shaped head, piercing through Nightshroud's dragon and destroying it.
"Due to Crimson Hell Gate's effect, the damage is reduced to 0 once again." Nightshroud reminded Reiji. "In addition, my card gains yet another counter (Sin Counter: 2→3)."
"My instinct tells me these counters will be troublesome…" Reiji murmured. "I place one card face-down and end my turn."
"My turn." Nightshroud announced. "Draw."
"At this moment, the effect of Contract with the Valkyrie activates." Reiji abruptly stated. "Thanks to it, all Monsters I control gain 1000 attack until the start of my turn (Beowulf ATK: 3000→4000, Vlad: 2700→3700, Zero Maxwell ATK: 2800→3800)."
"I activate the Spell Card Unexpected Supply." Nightshroud stated. "Since I control no Monsters while my opponent does, I can draw one card from my Deck for every Monster with 2000 or more attack that my opponent controls, in this case three. Then, I activate the Spell Card Red-Eyes Fusion, sending Red-Eyes Black Dragon, Red-Eyes Black Flame Swordsman and Red-Eyes Metal Knight Gearfried from my Deck to the Graveyard as materials in order to Fusion Summon!"
As his three Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Nightshroud chanted.
"Dragon of darkness embodying infinite potential! Iron-encased knight with the burning gaze! Swordsman of the phantom flame! Join together as one now and become a one-hit kill strike of lightning! Fusion Summon! Come forth, Level 9! Red-Eyes Gilford the Pitch-Black Lightning (ATK: 3400/DEF: 1900/LV: 9)!"
The red-eyed warrior with crimson and black armor that held a longsword surrounded by black lightning appeared on Nightshroud's field.
"I activate the Spell Card Explosive Red Summon." Nightshroud continued. "Thanks to its effect, I can target a Level 4 or lower "Red-Eyes" Monster in my Graveyard and Special Summon it by ignoring any effects that prevent its summon if my opponent controls more Monsters than I do. Revive, Red-Eyes Black Flame Swordsman!"
A portal appeared on the ground, with Black Flame Swordsman emerging from it and landing on Nightshroud's field.
"I activate Red-Eyes Gilford's effect." Nightshroud declared. "Once per turn, I can destroy a number of cards on my opponent's field equal to the number of "Red-Eyes" Monsters on my field. Since there are two such Monsters on my field, I can destroy two of your cards. I choose to destroy Contract with the Valkyrie and Cruel Dragon King Beowulf. Do it, my Monster!"
Red-Eyes Gilford raised its blade high, calling down two bolts of lightning that destroyed the designated cards.
(Zero Maxwell ATK: 3800→2800, Vlad ATK: 3700→2700)
"Next, I activate the Equip Spell Card Black Flame Salamander, equipping it to Black Flame Swordsman." Nightshroud stated as a flaming dragon appeared around his Monster's blade. "Thanks to its effect, my Monster gains 1000 attack (Black Flame Swordsman ATK: 1800→2800). Now, let's battle! Red-Eyes Gilford, destroy Zero Maxwell! Abyss Lightning Slash!"
Red-Eyes Gilford charged forward as its sword was enveloped by black lightning, striking Zero Maxwell and destroying it.
"Due to Zero Maxwell's effect, any damage I receive from battles involving it is reduced to 0." Reiji said.
"I see." Nightshroud said. "Since a "Red-Eyes" Monster on my field destroyed an opponent's Monster by battle, Black Flame Swordsman's effect allows me to draw one card from my Deck. Next, Black Flame Swordsman, destroy Ruthless Impalement King Vlad! Catharsis Salamander!"
Black Flame Swordsman swung its blade, unleashing a dragon-shaped wave of black flames that consumed Reiji's Monster, causing him to wince as a few stray embers struck him.
Reiji – LP: 3000→2900
"I activate the Continuous Spell Card Mirage of Nightmare." Nightshroud said. "Finally, I place one card face-down and end my turn."
"It's my turn!" Reiji announced. "Draw!"
"At this moment, the effect of Mirage of Nightmare activates, allowing me to draw cards until I have four in my hand." Nightshroud stated. "In exchange, I must discard the same amount of cards in my next Standby Phase. As such, I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Emergency Provisions, whose effect allows me to send any number of Spell or Trap Cards I control to the Graveyard and gain 1000 Life Points for every sent card. I will send Mirage of Nightmare to the Graveyard in order to gain 1000 Life Points."
Nightshroud – LP: 3200→4200
"You're not the only one who can recover Life Points." Reiji said. "Due to the Pendulum Effect of Tomb Conquistador, the damage that Contract with the Hellgate would deal me increases my Life Points instead. Therefore, I will also gain 1000 Life Points.
Reiji – LP: 2900→3900
"And that's not all." Reiji continued. "Ruthless Impalement King Vlad's effect activates. If this card was destroyed while it had Overlay Units attached to it, I can Special Summon it from my Graveyard during my Standby Phase with its effects negated. Revive, Vlad!"
A swarm of bats suddenly appeared on the field, converging into the form of Ruthless Impalement King Vlad.
"I activate the effect of Contract with the Hellgate, adding Earthbound King Nobunaga to my hand." Reiji stated. "Then, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Revive from the Extra Deck, Zero Maxwell!"
A single beam of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the form of Zero Maxwell upon landing on Reiji's field.
"Now then, this might be my first time trying it out, but this Duel should make for good practice." Reiji suddenly remarked. "I'll have you assist me in mastering the only form of summoning that had eluded me so far, Nightshroud."
"Hoh?" Nightshroud grinned. "You intend to improve yourself even further through this Duel?"
"That's right." Reiji said. "After all, I made a promise about a rematch to one of my comrades, so I intend to be in my absolute best when I face him once again by having mastered every form of summoning. I activate the Ritual Spell Card D/D/D Ritual, whose effect allows me to Ritual Summon a "D/D/D" Ritual Monster by offering the appropriate tributes. However, if I control two or more "D/D/D" Monsters, I can Ritual Summon without offering any tributes."
A large magic circle appeared above Reiji following his words, with several flames igniting around it. As a large dimensional gate appeared in its middle, Reiji chanted.
"Restless souls wandering between the alternate plans! Gather here and now, and give form to the demonic king of unification slumbering beneath the earth! Ritual Summon! Appear now, Level 10! D/D/D Earthbound Demon King Nobunaga (Earth/Fiend/Ritual/Effect/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2600/LV: 10)!"
An imposing Monster giving off a sinister aura that was clad in russet-colored mechanical armor reminiscent of a samurai and held an oversized katana appeared on Reiji's field.
"Oh, as expected of Reiji." Yusho commented with an amazed look. "He acquired Ritual Summoning, and was even able to summon a Ritual Monster without tributes. Truly impressive."
"Battle!" Reiji exclaimed. "Earthbound King Nobunaga, attack Red-Eyes Gilford! At this moment, Nobunaga's effect activates! When this card battles an opponent's Special Summoned Monster with a higher attack than it, I can reduce that Monster's attack to 0 (Red-Eyes Gilford ATK: 3400→0)! In exchange, the damage from this battle will be halved! Do it, my Monster! Gravity Cut!"
Earthbound King Nobunaga brandished its blade and charged forward, cleanly bisecting Red-Eyes Gilford with a rapid slash.
"Crimson Hell Gate reduces the damage to 0 and gains one more counter thanks to its effect (Sin Counter: 3→4)." Nightshroud stated. "Furthermore, Red-Eyes Gilford's effect activates. When this card is destroyed, I can Special Summon a "Red-Eyes" Monster with a lower Level than it from my Deck or Graveyard and have you receive damage equal to half its attack. I choose to Special Summon Red-Eyes Lightning Lord – Evil Daemon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 1200/LV: 6)!"
A demonic Monster with bone armor and wings extending from its back appeared on Nightshroud's field. Immediately afterwards, Reiji was struck by a red-colored bolt of lightning that descended from the sky, causing him to stumble.
Reiji – LP: 3900→2650
"Next, Zero Maxwell, destroy Evil Daemon!" Reiji shouted. "Zero Scope Blast!"
Zero Maxwell unleashed an energy wave from its telescope-shaped head, piercing through Evil Daemon and destroying it.
"Crimson Hell Gate's effect activates." Nightshroud said. "The damage is reduced to 0 and this card gains one counter (Sin Counter: 4→5)."
"At this moment, Earthbound Demon King Nobunaga's effect activates!" Reiji declared. "When another "D/D" Monster destroys an opponent's Monster by battle, I can inflict 600 points of damage to them! Take this!"
A dozen arquebuses appeared around Nobunaga, unleashing a barrage of shots that struck Nightshroud's body and caused him to grunt from the pain.
Nightshroud – LP: 4200→3600
"Since you can't inflict battle damage, you decided to switch to effect damage, huh?" Nightshroud smirked. "Not bad, Akaba Reiji."
"Finally, Ruthless Impalement King Vlad, attack Black Flame Swordsman!" Reiji pointed at Nightshroud's last Monster. "At this moment, I will send D/D Dullahan (Dark/Fiend/Effect/ATK: 700/DEF: 2000/LV: 4) from my hand to the Graveyard in order to activate its effect, increasing my Monster's attack by 700 until the End Phase (Vlad ATK: 2700→3400)! Go, Vlad! Execution Thrust!"
Vlad's lance pierced through Black Flame Swordsman weapon and body, destroying the Monster.
"My Continuous Trap Card's effect will reduce the damage to 0, while it will gain a counter (Sin Counter: 5→6)." Nightshroud stated. "In addition, when Black Flame Salamander is sent to the Graveyard because the equipped Monster was destroyed, I can draw one card from my Deck."
"Nobunaga's effect activates once again." Reiji declared. "Thanks to it, you'll receive 600 points of damage once again!"
Nightshroud was struck by a barrage of arquebus fire once again, causing him to stumble from the impact.
Nightshroud – LP: 3600→3000
"I end my turn with this." Reiji said. "At this moment, D/D Dullahan's effect ends, with Impalement King Vlad's effect returning to normal (Vlad ATK: 3400→2700)."
"How magnificent, Akaba Reiji." Nightshroud praised the grey-haired youth. "I see that the rumors of your skill and abilities aren't exaggerated in the least. No, I believe they've failed to grasp your true potential. It's a shame that you've chosen to oppose us. If you worked together with us, we could have used your skill and expertise in our goal of saving the world."
"I'll praise your exceptional skill, tenacity and drive as well." Reiji responded. "Your Dueling is like a sword that's been sharpened to the limit, swift, precise and lethal. However, this is a good opportunity. Why have you chosen to follow my father? What sort of goal do you wish to accomplish so desperately that you'd discard even your own family? Somehow, I don't believe it's the ridiculous fantasy of building an ideal world that all Academia lapdogs spout."
Nightshroud was silent for a few seconds before eventually responding.
"…My goal is the same as your father's; the salvation of this world." Nightshroud stated. "However, our idea of salvation is fundamentally different to the one most Academia members envision."
"Hoh?" Reiji raised an eyebrow. "Do explain."
"To answer your question fully, I must first pose a question of my own." Nightshroud said. "Did you not ever think it strange that the four dimensions are almost identical to one another except for one major factor, the different summoning methods employed by them?"
Reiji narrowed his eyes at this. It was true that he had considered such a thing strange before, but had never given it much thought and had simply dismissed it as an odd quirk in the end. Was he implying that there was some hidden purpose behind this that he had missed?
"The explanation for that can be traced back to the origins of the four dimensions." Nightshroud continued. "Yes, back at the time—when the dimensions were one."
Cue shocked gasps from everyone present.
"What…did you say?" Yusho seemed astonished. "The dimensions used to be one? What are you talking about?"
"While it sounds like a far-fetched tale, this is the undeniable truth." Nightshroud stated. "The Fusion, Xyz, Synchro and Standard Dimension were once one, the Original Dimension. That dimension was the originator of anything, including the root of the tragedy that still threatens everyone."
"If we assume that what you say is true, there was a reason that Original Dimension was split into four." Reiji straightened his glasses. "And that reason is something that still lingers."
"That's exactly right, Akaba Reiji." Nightshroud said. "In the Original Dimension, a powerful Duelist who stood above all else, a young man named Zarc, used the Real Solid Vision system developed by Akaba Leo to transform himself into a powerful Monster that plunged the world into chaos and despair. A brave Duelist wielding the power of nature put an end to Zarc's campaign of terror and destruction by splitting him into four parts, unwittingly creating the four dimensions in the process. However, Zarc hasn't perished and intends to become one once again. Once he does, the world will be destroyed for sure. Our only chance is to acquire the same power that defeated him once before through the Arc Area Project, putting an end to him once and for all."
"From your words, I can tell that you really believe this little fairy tale of yours that my father fed you, including the fact that he somehow experienced all this." Reiji spoke with a derisive tone. "However, if you wish to convince me, you'll have to give some solid evidence of this supposed Zarc's existence and imminent resurrection. Otherwise, I'm afraid I'll have to dismiss your words as a childish fantasy."
"Believe what you wish." Nightshroud shrugged. "I didn't wish to believe it at first when the Professor spoke of this to me, who was wavering in his loyalties after my sister's defection. However, the Professor showed me his memories as a resident of the Original Dimension before its separation, giving me a first-hand view of the destruction wrought by that Monster, a Monster he had unwittingly created. He even humbled himself before me by bowing and even wagered his life, being willing to let me eliminate him should I have doubts about him. That man's determination to stop the revival of the Demon Duelist was definitely genuine, which is why I decided to follow him…even if that path leads to Hell."
Nightshroud gazed at the ceiling for a brief moment before speaking once again.
"I used to be a soft-hearted fool, a young brat who believed in naïve ideals and treated Duels as a sport." Nightshroud stated. "In order to acquire the strength needed to protect this world, I had to abandon everything and everyone; friends, family, even conscience and morals as a human. While our skills are nearly equal, do you really believe your conviction can match mine, Akaba Reiji?"
"You seem to be misunderstanding something fundamental." Reiji stated. "You believe that by abandoning everything important to you, you demonstrate your strength? That's a laughable outlook, Nightshroud. Let me teach you this. Recklessly discarding everything doesn't make you strong; it makes you weak."
"…What did you say?" Nightshroud's mouth became a thin line as he glared at Reiji. "I'm weak?"
"That's right." Reiji insisted. "You are laughably weak, to the point where I'm starting to pity you. Your reckless disregard for the things precious to you is not proof of strength, but proof that you didn't have the fortitude and resolve to pursue your goal while carrying the weight of everything that once mattered to you."
Reiji then straightened his glasses before resuming speaking.
"It appears we're fundamentally different at our core after all. I chose to pursue my goal while carrying the burden and responsibility of being the leader everyone trusted to follow. Treating the Lancers as mere tools would have been easy, and perhaps even more effective against you in the long run. However, the victory I seek, the ideal future I seek, is one that as many of us as possible can share together. The future you pursue on the other hand is an empty one, devoid of everything that once mattered to you, a truly hollow victory. That's why, in the end, a person like you who easily relinquished his bonds, his freedom of will, and even core aspects of his humanity to become a weapon will never be able to match me. It's impossible no matter what."
"What do you presume to know of the weight of my sacrifices…or the scars I carry and the pain I have to endure…?" Nightshroud spat out in a barely audible voice before composing himself and speaking to Reiji. "What you perceive as strength sounds like meaningless chains that only drag you down and prevent you from unleashing your full potential to me. Since we can only agree to disagree, let us ascertain through this Duel which viewpoint is ultimately the correct one; is strength born from the resolve to abandon everything for the sake of a single goal greater, or does strength cultivated through persistently carrying one's own burdens even to one's own detriment surpasses it?"
"That sounds just fine to me." Reiji gestured at Nightshroud. "Now, no need to hold back. Hit me with your best shot."
"Be careful what you wish for." Nightshroud smirked. "My turn! Draw! I activate the Spell Card Fusion Revival Technique, which allows me to add a "Fusion" card from my Graveyard to my hand. I choose Crimson Awakening – Infernal Fusion and activate it, using its effect to shuffle Evil Daemon and Black Flame Swordsman from my Graveyard back to the Deck in order to Fusion Summon!"
As his two Monsters swirled inside a vortex of crimson-colored flames, Nightshroud chanted.
"Swordsman of the phantom flame! Lightning-clad demon with the burning gaze! Let those blazing eyes of yours become the catalyst that will awaken the roaring blaze of destruction dwelling in the depths of Hell! Fusion Summon! Come forth now, Level 5! Crimson-Eyes Dragunazo Dragon (Dark/Dragon/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 2300/DEF: 0/LV: 5)!"
A navy-colored dragon with dragon heads extending from its chest, hands, legs and tail, which had crimson veins running through its body and ashes falling off its body, appeared on Nightshroud's field, letting out a resonant howl.
"I activate Dragunazo Dragon's effect." Nightshroud declared. "Once per turn, if my opponent controls more Monsters than I do, I can Special Summon a "Crimson-Eyes" Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck whose Level is lower than the Monster with the highest Level my opponent controls by ignoring its summoning conditions. Since the Level 10 Earthbound King Nobunaga is the Monster with the highest Level, I can Special Summon a Level 9 or lower Monster. Appear now, Crimson-Eyes Farfarel Dragon (ATK: 3100/DEF: 2700/LV: 9)
The reddish brown-colored dragon with crimson eyes and a demonic appearance, which had two sets of wings extending from its back and several serpents extending from its body, appeared on Nightshroud's field.
"I'm not finished yet." Nightshroud continued. "I activate the Spell Card Akashic Fusion. Through its effect, I can Fusion Summon a Fusion Monster that requires a specific "Fusion" card to be used for its summon by treating this card as that specific Fusion card as long as the materials are the correct ones. I will fuse Red-Eyes Tracer Dragon and Red-Eyes Wyvern!"
As his two Monsters swirled inside a vortex of crimson-colored flames, Nightshroud chanted for the second time.
"Ferocious dragons embodying infinite potential! Let those blazing eyes of yours become the catalyst that will awaken the scorching breath of Hell! Fusion Summon! Come forth, Level 4! Crimson-Eyes Libecolle Dragon (Dark/Dragon/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 1900/DEF: 1200/LV: 4)!"
The dark-blue colored dragon with crimson eyes and bulges that resembled exhaust ports which discharged scorching winds throughout its body appeared on Nightshroud's field next to his other two dragons.
"Three of these malicious dragons at once…" Yusho remarked. "This could spell trouble for Reiji…"
"Nii-sama…" Reira clutched the stuffed toy hanging from his belt. "Hang in there…"
"I activate Dragunazo Dragon's second effect." Nightshroud stated. "Once per turn, if I Fusion Summoned another Dark-attribute Dragon-type Fusion Monster during my Main Phase, I can target a Spell or Trap Card on my opponent's field and destroy it. I will destroy your face-down card."
"In that case, I'll activate it first." Reiji said. "Thanks to the effect of my Trap Card, D/D Backdoor Deal, all battle damage from battles involving "D/D" Monsters is reduced to 0 for the rest of this turn."
"Then, let's battle!" Nightshroud exclaimed. "At this moment, I activate Farfarel Dragon's effect! Once per turn, during the Battle Phase, I can target a Monster my opponent controls, make its attack equal to Farfarel Dragon's until the End Phase and have it attack another Monster my opponent controls! I choose to have your Earthbound Demon King Nobunaga (Nobunaga ATK: 3000→3100) attack your Ruthless Impalement King Vlad!"
Following Nightshroud's words, the serpents attached on Farfarel Dragon's body shot forward, entangling themselves around Nobunaga and forcing it to turn towards Vlad. Immediately afterwards, Nobunaga dashed forward and plunged its sword deep into Vlad's chest, destroying it.
"Due to its effect, Vlad will be banished." Reiji said. "And thanks to my Trap's effect, all battle damage will be reduced to 0."
"Moving on, Dragunazo Dragon will attack Zero Maxwell!" Nightshroud shouted. "At this moment, Libecolle Dragon's effect activates! When a Dark-attribute Dragon-type Monster declares an attack, I can increase that Monster's attack by 800 (Dragunazo Dragon ATK: 2300→3100)! Do it, Dragunazo Dragon! Abyss Wrath Howl!"
All mouths on the dragon's body opened wide, unleashing a powerful shockwave that broke Zero Maxwell's body to pieces.
"Next, Farfarel Dragon will attack Nobunaga!" Nightshroud declared. "And of course, Libecolle Dragon's effect activates once more, boosting my dragon's attack (Farfarel Dragon ATK: 3100→3900)! Go, Farfarel Dragon! Scornful Phantasma Flare!"
Farfarel Dragon opened its maw wide, unleashing a large, grey-colored fireball that consumed Reiji's Monster, obliterating it.
"Nobunaga's effect activates!" Reiji abruptly stated. "When this card is destroyed, I can Special Summon a "D/D/D" Monster from my Deck with its effects negated! Come forth, the second copy of Hell Armageddon!"
A dimensional rift appeared above Reiji, with Hell Armageddon emerging from it and landing on his field.
"Even with the attack boost, Libecolle Dragon cannot match Hell Armageddon…" Nightshroud remarked. "It can't be helped then. I place one card and end my turn. At this moment, Red-Eyes Wyvern's effect in my Graveyard activates. Since I didn't perform a Normal Summon during this turn, I can banish this card from my Graveyard in order to Special Summon a "Red-Eyes" Monster from my Graveyard. Revive, Red-Eyes Gilford!"
A portal appeared on the ground, with Red-Eyes Gilford emerging from it and landing on Nightshroud's field.
"It's my turn!" Reiji announced. "Draw! During my Standby Phase, Tomb Conquistador's Pendulum Effect activates, enabling me to regain 1000 Life points instead of receiving 1000 points of damage from Contract with the Hellgate."
Reiji was once again surrounded by a glowing aura that was generated from Tomb Conquistador.
Reiji – LP: 2650→3650
"Moving on, I will perform a Pendulum Summon!" Reiji declared. "Revive from the Extra Deck, Zero Maxwell! And from my hand, come, D/D Pandora (Dark/Fiend/Effect/ATK: 1700/DEF: 2100/LV: 5) and D/D Brownie (Dark/Fiend/Pendulum/Tuner/Effect/ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 3/SC: 2)!"
Three beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Zero Maxwell, a masked woman whose lower body consisted of a box, and a misshapen demon with a single wing extending from its right torso and a tail instead of a lower body appeared on Reiji's field.
"I activate the effect of Contract with the Hellgate to add one of my strongest Monsters in my hand and release Zero Maxwell in order to Special Summon it!" Reiji continued. "The inexorable decrees of fate will awaken the Demon of Causality! Descend now before us, almighty god-king who reigns over destiny itself! D/D/D Destiny King Zero Laplace (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 10/SC: 1)!"
The massive Monster which had a skull-shaped face, an elongated body, four arms and numerous tentacles sprouting from its back appeared on Reiji's field.
"Next, I tune the Level 5 D/D Pandora with the Level 3 D/D Brownie!" As Pandora turned into five stars and Brownie turned into three rings surrounding them, Reiji chanted. "Climb over the corpses of heroes, carrying your bloodstained blade! Synchro Summon! Be born, Level 8! D/D/D Cursed Blood King Siegfried (ATK: 2800/DEF: 2200/LV: 8)!"
The armored warrior with long, white hair that carried an oversized broadsword on its back appeared on Reiji's field.
"I activate Siegfried's effect." Reiji stated. "Once during either player's turn, I can target a Spell or Trap Card on the field and negate its effect until the next Standby Phase. I will negate the effects of your Crimson Hell Gate."
"I won't let you!" Nightshroud shouted. "I activate the Counter Trap Card Crimson Lock. Thanks to its effect, if I control a "Crimson-Eyes" Monster, I can negate the activation of an opponent's card effect that would target a card on my field. Therefore, Siegfried's effect won't apply."
"In that case, I activate the Continuous Spell Card Sinister Contract with the Outer Deity." Reiji stated. "Now, let's battle! Zero Laplace, attack Crimson-Eyes Farfarel Dragon! At this moment, Zero Laplace's effect activates, making its attack equal to double the original attack of the Monster it's battling until the end of the damage step (Zero Laplace ATK: 0→6200)! Destroy his Monster, Zero Laplace! The End of Fate!"
Following Reiji's words, Zero Laplace unleashed a sphere of dark energy that struck Farfarel Dragon's body, destroying it.
"Farfarel Dragon's effect activates." Nightshroud stated. "Thanks to it, I can draw two cards from my Deck when it's destroyed. And Crimson Hell Gate gains one more counter (Sin Counter: 6→7)."
"Next, Cursed Blood King Siegfried will attack Red-Eyes Gilford!" Reiji exclaimed. "And since a "D/D/D" Monster on my field battles an opponent's Monster with a higher attack than itself, the effect of Sinister Contract with the Outer Deity activates, increasing my Monster's attack by 1000 (Siegfried ATK: 2800→3800)! Take that warrior down, Siegfried! Phantasmal Greatsword Balmung!"
Siegfried swung its large blade, unleashing an energy blast that cleanly bisected Red-Eyes Gilford, destroying it.
"Crimson Hell Gate gains yet another counter (Sin Counter: 7→8)." Nightshroud stated. "In addition, Red-Eyes Gilford's effect activates! Thanks to it, I will send the 2400 Red-Eyes Black Flare Dragon from my Deck to the Graveyard in order to inflict damage to you equal to half its attack!"
"The second effect of Sinister Contract with the Outer Deity activates!" Reiji declared. "When I'm about to receive effect damage, I can negate it and increase the attack of a "D/D/D" Monster I control by an amount equal to that damage! In exchange, the effect damage I will receive from this card's effect during my next Standby Phase will be doubled! I choose to increase Siegfried's attack (Siegfried ATK: 3800→5000)! Finally, Hell Armageddon will destroy Libecolle Dragon! The End of World!"
Several energy blasts were unleashed from Hell Armageddon's core, destroying Nightshroud's dragon.
"The effect of Crimson Hell Gate activates, allowing me to reduce the battle damage to 0 and place one counter on this counter (Sin Counter: 8→9)." Nightshroud said. "With this, your attacks have come to an end."
"Is that so?" Reiji straightened his glasses. "Unfortunately for you, my assault is far from over. I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Forbidden Contract with the Rampaging Warrior. Thanks to its effect, "D/D/D" Monsters that declared an attack during the Battle Phase can attack once again on this Battle Phase. In exchange, they will be destroyed during the Battle Phase's end. As such, Siegfried will destroy Dragunazo Dragon! Phantasmal Greatsword Balmung!"
Siegfried swung its sword several times, severing every dragon head on the Monster's body and destroying it.
"Crimson Hell Gate's effect activates once again." Nightshroud stated. "The damage is reduced to 0 and this card gains a counter (Sin Counter: 9→10)."
"With this, you're wide open." Reiji pointed. "Let's end this! Hell Armageddon, attack him directly and wipe out his Life Points! The End of World!"
"Crimson Hell Gate's final effect activates!" Nightshroud bellowed. "When I'm about to receive damage from a direct attack, I can destroy this card to reduce the damage to 0 and end the Battle Phase!"
"So you escaped…" Reiji muttered. "With the Battle Phase's end, my Contract's effect activates, destroying Hell Armageddon and Siegfried. And since Siegfried was destroyed, its effect activates, allowing me to gain 1000 Life Points for every "Contract" card on my field. Since there are two such cards, I'll gain 2000 Life Points."
Reiji was surrounded by a silver aura following his words.
Reiji – LP: 3650→5650
"I place one card face-down and end my turn." Reiji said.
"That was so close, and yet so far." Yusho remarked. "Still, Reiji has a solid formation and the advantage in terms of Life Points. However, I can't help but feel that the situation will change once again…"
"My turn!" Nightshroud announced. "Draw! During my Standby Phase, the effect of the destroyed Crimson Hell Gate activates. Thanks to it, I can Special Summon a "Crimson-Eyes" Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck whose Level is equal to or lower than the number of Sin Counters on this card at the time of its destruction by ignoring its summoning conditions. Since there were ten Sin Counters, I will Special Summon a Level 10 Monster! Come to the stage, apostle of inferno! Level 10! Crimson-Eyes Rubicante Dragon (ATK: 3500/DEF: 3000/LV: 10)!"
A mechanical dragon covered from head to toe in blood red armor with a thick crimson mask attached to its face and several cannons extending from its body appeared on Nightshroud's field, letting out a furious howl.
"What is this…?" Reira spoke with his eyes wide open. "It feels scary…"
"I activate Crimson-Eyes Rubicante Dragon's effect." Nightshroud declared. "When this card is Special Summoned, I can send all cards my opponent controls to the Graveyard and inflict 300 points of damage to them for every sent card. You currently have six cards on your field, meaning you'll take 1800 points of damage! Endless Inferno Realm!"
Rubicante Dragon stomped its armored foot on the ground, generating pillars of magma from the ground that consumed Reiji's cards and enveloped him, causing him to let out a cry of pain as he fell to his knees.
Reiji – LP: 5650→3850
"Next, I activate the Spell Card Hellbound Soul." Nightshroud continued. "Thanks to its effect, I can increase the attack of a "Crimson-Eyes" Monster on my field by 500 (Rubicante Dragon ATK: 3500→4000). Now, let's battle! Crimson-Eyes Rubicante Dragon, attack him directly and end this!"
"I activate the effect of D/D Dullahan in my Graveyard!" Reiji exclaimed. "When I'm about to receive a direct attack, I can Special Summon it! Revive, D/D Dullahan in defense mode!"
A portal appeared on the ground, with a headless armored knight surrounded by blue flames that held its severed head in its left hand appeared on Reiji's field.
"Futile resistance…" Nightshroud growled. "In that case, Rubicante Dragon will destroy your D/D Dullahan! And thanks to the effect of Hellbound Soul, I can inflict piercing damage to you! Do it, Rubicante Dragon! Purgatory Blaze Drive!"
The cannons on the dragon's body swung forward, aiming at D/D Dullahan. Immediately afterwards, they unleashed a fiery inferno that enveloped the Monster, vaporizing it and causing Reiji to scream once again as he was struck by the flames.
Reiji – LP: 3850→1850
"Due to its effect…D/D Dullahan is banished…" Reiji wheezed out.
"It looks like you managed to survive yet again." Nightshroud said. "However, I'm afraid you won't be so lucky next time. I place one card face-down and end my turn."
"It's my turn!" Reiji announced. "Draw! Using the Scale 6 D/D Magical Savant Thomas (Dark/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 1800/DEF: 2600/LV: 8/SC: 6) and the Scale 10 Magical Savant Kepler (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 1/SC: 10), I reset the Pendulum Scale!"
The two columns of light appeared next to Reiji's side once again, with his two Monsters rising to their top.
"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 7 through 9! Pendulum Summon! Revive from the Extra Deck, Zero Maxwell and Hell Armageddon!"
Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Monsters upon landing on Reiji's field.
"This pattern…" Yusho muttered. "Is that thing coming next?"
"The conditions have been met." Reiji declared. "When I Pendulum Summon a "D/D/D" Monster while the combined value of my Pendulum Scales exceeds 12, I can Special Summon this Monster from my hand!"
As the Pendulum portal behind Reiji was enlarged, moving outside of the confines between the two columns of light, he chanted.
"The quaking soul will now exceed the boundaries of reason! Seize the absolute power of the origin lying beyond light and darkness, and reign supreme upon this world! Transcendent Pendulum Summon! Come forth, Level 12! D/D/D/D Super-Dimensional Sovereign Emperor Zero Paradox (ATK: 3000/DEF: 3000/LV: 12/SC: 12)!"
The massive Monster resembling a mechanical demon, which had a spherical lower body, four arms extending from portals that were hovering near its torso and several chains with small blades attached to their ends extending from its body appeared on Reiji's field.
"Transcendent Pendulum Summon?" Nightshroud wondered. "So this is the final trump card in your disposal, huh? How magnificent indeed."
"Zero Paradox's effect activates." Reiji stated. "When this card is Special Summoned successfully, I can destroy all other cards on the field! Oblivion Factor!"
A storm of energy erupted around Zero Paradox, obliterating all other cards on the field apart from itself.
"Since a "D/D/D" Monster left the field, Zero Paradox's effect activates, allowing me to double its attack (Zero Paradox ATK: 3000→6000)." Reiji stated. "Now, let's battle! Zero Paradox, attack Nightshroud directly! Twisted Equinox!"
"I activate the effect of Red-Eyes Giltia the Dark Knight in my hand!" Nightshroud exclaimed. "When I'm about to receive a direct attack, I can Special Summon this card from my hand! Come, Red-Eyes Giltia in defense mode (Dark/Warrior/Effect/ATK: 1850/DEF: 1500/LV: 5)!"
A Monster clad in a violet robe with black armor parts attached to it, which held an ornate staff in its hand, appeared on Nightshroud's field.
"In that case, Zero Paradox will destroy Red-Eyes Giltia!" Reiji declared. "Do it, my Monster!"
Zero Paradox pointed its arms forward, unleashing shockwaves that distorted the knight's body, causing it to collapse on itself and vanish.
"Red-Eyes Giltia's effect activates." Nightshroud stated. "When this card is destroyed, I can add a "Fusion" Spell Card from my Deck or Graveyard to my hand. I'll add Crimson Awakening – Infernal Fusion from my Graveyard to my hand."
"This means that another one of those Crimson-Eyes Monsters is coming next turn…" Reiji muttered. "I end my turn with this."
"My turn!" Nightshroud announced. "Draw! Now then, since you were so kind as to show me your ultimate trump card, it's only proper that I respond in kind. I activate the Spell Card Crimson Awakening – Infernal Fusion, shuffling Farfarel Dragon and Rubicante Dragon from my Graveyard back to my Extra Deck in order to Fusion Summon!"
As his two Monsters swirled inside a vortex of crimson-colored flames, Nightshroud chanted.
"Dragons of Hell with eyes of disaster! Let those blazing eyes of yours become the catalyst that will awaken the fierce ruler of eternal damnation! Fusion Summon! Descend now, Level 12! Apostle of torment and demise, Crimson-Eyes Malacoda Dragon (Dark/Dragon/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 4000/DEF: 4000/LV: 12)!"
A pitch-black dragon with a massive body that had crimson armor parts attached to it and an oversized tail with a blade attached to its end, which had a figure resembling a tall, cloaked skeleton that held an ornate scythe in its hands protruding from its back as a grotesque rider of a sorts, appeared on Nightshroud's field, letting out a howl that shook the whole chamber, causing cracks to appear on the walls.
"What…is that?" Yusho narrowed his eyes at the Monster. "Such a horrifying aura…"
Next to him, Reira was silent. However, his trembling body and disturbed breathing accurately conveyed his emotions at the appearance of this behemoth.
"Time to draw the curtain on this match, Akaba Reiji." Nightshroud declared. "Battle! Crimson-Eyes Malacoda Dragon, attack Zero Paradox! At this moment, Malacoda Dragon's effect activates! When this card battles, I can send a "Red-Eyes" or "Crimson-Eyes" Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck to the Graveyard in order to increase its attack by an amount equal to that Monster's attack! I choose to send the 3700 Scarmiglione Dragon to the Graveyard (Malacoda Dragon ATK: 4000→7700)! Do it, my Monster! Anti-Genesis Paradigm!"
"Since a "D/D" Monster on my field is targeted for an attack, I can activate the effect of the Trap Card Zero Sum Penalty in my Graveyard that was sent to the Graveyard due to Rubicante Dragon's effect, setting it on my field and activating it!" Reiji exclaimed. "Thanks to its effect, each time a Monster on my field would be destroyed by battle during this Battle Phase, I can pay 300 Life Points and send a card from the top of my Deck to the Graveyard in order to prevent its destruction and reduce the battle damage to 0! I will use that effect to prevent Zero Paradox's destruction!"
Malacoda Dragon opened its maw wide, unleashing a storm of violet-colored energy that struck Zero Paradox, but failed to destroy it, with Reiji wincing due to the ensuing shockwave.
Reiji – LP: 1850→1550
"Not bad, but unfortunately, my attack is far from over." Nightshroud smirked. "During each Battle Phase, Malacoda Dragon's number of attacks is equal to the number of unused Monster Zones on my field, in this case four, plus its own. As such, Malacoda Dragon will attack once again! And of course, my Monster's first effect activates once again, meaning I can send the 3500 attack Rubicante Dragon, 3100 attack Farfarel Dragon, 2800 attack Gatolhog Dragon and 3800 attack Red-Eyes Ultimate Dragon from my Extra Deck to the Graveyard in order to further boost my Monster's attack (Malacoda Dragon ATK: 7700→11200→14300→17100→20900)! Anti-Genesis Paradigm!"
"In that case, I'll counter your attacks with Zero Sum Penalty's effect!" Reiji shouted. "By paying 300 Life Points and sending one card from the top of my Deck to the Graveyard, I can prevent Zero Paradox's destruction and reduce the battle damage to 0!"
Following Reiji's words, Malacoda Dragon unleashed four consecutive blasts of energy that struck Zero Paradox, with the ensuing shockwave sending Reiji tumbling backwards.
Reiji – LP: 1550→1250→950→650→350
"You survived by the skin of your teeth, huh?" Nightshroud remarked. "Even so, your situation is still nearly hopeless. And it's about to become even worse. At the Battle Phase's end, I can Special Summon as many Monsters as possible that were sent to the Graveyard through Malacoda Dragon's effect with their effects negated by ignoring their summoning conditions. Revive, Scarmiglione Dragon, Rubicante Dragon, Farfarel Dragon and Gatolhog Dragon!"
The skeleton rider on Malacoda Dragon's back raised its scythe high, causing a wide crack to appear on the ground, out of which emerged the four dragons and landed on the field, letting out furious howls.
"Behold." Nightshroud gestured at his Monsters. "This is my strongest formation. Malacoda Dragon's effect prevents me from taking damage from battles involving other "Red-Eyes" or "Crimson-Eyes" Monsters I control, while its other effect prevents it from being targeted for an attack if I control any of the aforementioned Monsters. In addition, if Malacoda Dragon would be destroyed by a card effect, I can destroy a Monster I control instead. With this, there's absolutely no way you can break through and defeat me. The only thing you can do is surrender to your inevitable fate. I place one card face-down and end my turn."
"At this moment, Zero Sum Penalty's effect activates." Reiji said as he stood up. "Any Monsters affected by its effect are banished during the End Phase."
"On top of all that, you've also lost your final trump card." Nightshroud stated. "Your defeat is all but set in stone, Akaba Reiji. I would advise you to surrender and spare yourself the upcoming agony. You fought skillfully and ferociously, so there's no shame in admitting that you're simply outmatched."
"Unfortunately, I cannot do that." Reiji stated as he straightened his glasses. "My comrades are fighting their hardest right now across Academia in order to make sure that the path to my father remains as unobstructed as possible. There's no way I can betray their trust by stumbling at this place. Therefore, I will seize victory no matter what! It's my turn! Draw!"
"Those are some big words, but what are you going to do with only a single card in your hand?" Nightshroud said. "If you believe you can somehow turn this hopeless situation around, I'd love to see you try."
"I absolutely will break through this pinch, and crush the symbol of your lonesome strength, that fiendish dragon that sacrifices its comrades and treats them as disposable shields." Reiji declared. "I activate Zero Sum Penalty's final effect. By banishing this card from my Graveyard, I can draw cards from my Deck equal to the number of times I used its effect during the previous turn, in this case five. However, during the End Phase, I'll receive 1000 points of damage for every card I drew."
"So it's all or nothing at this point." Yusho remarked with a frown. "Either way, Reiji has no choice but betting everything on finding a way to win during this turn."
Reiji checked his drawn cards with an unfathomable expression on his face before speaking.
"Using the Scale 6 D/D Proud Chevalier (ATK: 2000/DEF: 700/LV: 5/SC: 6) and the Scale 8 D/D Magical Savant Nicola (Dark/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 2000/DEF: 2000/LV: 6/SC: 8), I Set the Pendulum Scale for a third time!" Reiji announced as the columns of light appeared once again on his sides, with his Monsters rising to their top. "Now I can simultaneously summon Level 7 Monsters! Pendulum Summon! Come, D/D/D Ultimate Wisdom King Chaos Apocalypse (ATK: 2700/DEF: 2000/LV: 7/SC: 4)!"
A single beam of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the form of Chaos Apocalypse.
"A single Pendulum Monster against my five dragons?" Nightshroud wondered, but then his eyes opened wide. "Unless… Don't tell me!"
"It's as you've probably guessed." Reiji stated. "When I Pendulum Summon a "D/D/D" Monster while the combined value of my Pendulum Scales exceeds 12, I can Special Summon this Monster from my hand by destroying all other Monsters on my field!"
As the Pendulum portal behind Reiji was enlarged, moving outside of the confines between the two columns of light, he chanted.
"The quaking soul will now exceed the boundaries of reason! Seize the absolute power of the origin lying beyond light and darkness, and reign supreme upon this world! Transcendent Pendulum Summon! Come forth, Level 12! The aloof and proud king gazing at the world from outside the boundaries of creation, D/D/D/D Legend Origin Valiant God-King Gilgamesh (Light/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 4000/DEF: 3500/LV: 12/SC: 0)!"
A spatial distortion suddenly appeared above Reiji, with a humanoid Monster clad entirely in shining gold armor with a crown-shaped helmet covering its head, which had two blades attached to its back and ornate gold chains wrapped around its arms and legs, emerging from it and illuminating the entire area.
"Another D/D/D/D Monster?" Nightshroud glared at the new Monster. "Zero Paradox wasn't the only one?"
"I never said that it was." Reiji smirked. "Now, bear witness to the transcendental power of the almighty king standing above all others!"
A golden portal appeared in front of Gilgamesh following Reiji's words, with an oddly shaped blade that had a cylindrical body emerging from it. Gilgamesh grabbed it and raised it high, generating a storm of energy that enveloped the entire field as it hovered upwards while the cylindrical part spun.
"What's this!?" Nightshroud shouted while covering his face. "What are you trying to do, Akaba Reiji!?"
"I activate Gilgamesh's effect!" Reiji exclaimed. "Once per turn, if there is a Ritual, Fusion, Synchro, Xyz and Pendulum Monster in my Graveyard, I can shuffle them back to the Deck in order to banish all cards from my opponent's field, hand and Graveyard, along with banishing five random cards from their Extra Deck!"
"What did you say!?" Nightshroud cried out in shock. "You're using such an absurd effect at this stage!?"
"I speak of genesis!" Reiji chanted as the storm intensified. "The elements amalgamate, coalesce, and bring forth the stars that weave all of creation! It's time for judgment! Take this! The peerless Sword of Rupture, Enuma Elish!"
Three massive spatial distortions appeared above Gilgamesh, with the Monster directing downwards as it pointed its blade at Nightshroud's field. Immediately afterwards, a raging wave of destruction erupted from it, consuming everything on Nightshroud's field and leaving it bare once it subsided.
"Such power…" Nightshroud fell to his knees, stunned. "My proud dragons, my soul, my resolve…everything was consumed…"
"It's time to end this for good!" Reiji declared. "Now, prostrate before the true king's might! Battle! Legend Origin Valiant God-King Gilgamesh, attack him directly and finish this! Gate of Babylon!"
Numerous golden portals appeared around Gilgamesh, with a vast array of weapons extending from them. With a gesture of its hand, Gilgamesh sent all the weapons flying with the speed of a meteor, striking Nightshroud and sending him flying backwards as his mask shattered, revealing his face.
Nightshroud – LP: 3000→0
Reiji: WIN
"To think that I would lose here…" Nightshroud let out a humorless chuckle. "How pitiful… But at least…I've bought some time for the Professor… Once the Arc Area Project is complete, we'll finally…live in a world free of fear…"
After saying so, Nightshroud lost consciousness. At the same time, Reiji stumbled and was about to fall, only for Yusho to support him with his arm.
"Easy there, Reiji." Yusho said. "That was quite the intense Duel you had there. Maybe we should take a break and rest for a bit."
"There's no time for that." Reiji responded as he stood to his full height. "Judging from Nightshroud's words, my father has begun preparations to initiate the Arc Area Project. We need to hurry to his chambers and put an end to it before it's too late."
"You're probably right." Yusho nodded, but then frowned. "Still…that story Nightshroud told us about the Demon Duelist Zarc…could this really be the reason Leo is doing all this?"
"I'm not sure." Reiji said. "Nightshroud certainty thought this was the case, but it's a rather tall tale to take at face value. I'm more inclined to believe my father lied to him and concealed his true purpose. Either way, the only way to elucidate the truth is to move forward and confront my father."
"Right you are." Yusho agreed. "Well then, let's move on and hope that we won't have any other unfortunate encounters like this one. We need to save our strength for the main event."
After saying that, Reiji, Reira and Yusho moved further into the fortress, leaving the corridor and the unconscious Nightshroud behind them. At the same time, Leo, who had been observing the situation through his holographic scenes, sighed.
"Even Nightshroud has fallen to the Lancers, while my son and his group have almost reached me. That's truly unfortunate. Regardless, his sacrifice and that of everyone else won't be in vain. The Arc Area Project is almost ready to begin. And when it does, my heart's desire will finally be fulfilled…"
Leo remarked so as he stared at the distance, mentally preparing himself for the upcoming battle…
Card Corner
Lens Magician
ATK: 0, DEF: 800, LV: 2
Light/Spellcaster/Effect
Monster Effect: If this card is targeted for an attack, you can tribute it in order to negate that attack and Special Summon "C/C One-Eyed Past Eye" from your Deck.
C/C/C Shadow Dagger the Embodiment of Fused Arms
ATK: 1800, DEF: 0, LV: 4
Dark/Fiend/Fusion/Effect
"C/C One-Eyed Past Eye" + 1 Level 4 or lower DARK Monster
Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can target a face-up DARK Monster your opponent controls; destroy it.
C/C/C Shadow Crushgaunts the Embodiment of Overlaid Armors
ATK: 1000, DEF: 2000, R: 4
Dark/Fiend/Xyz/Effect
2 Level 4 DARK Monsters
Monster Effect: Once during either player's turn, you can detach an Xyz Material from this card and target a DARK Monster you control; prevent its destruction by battle and halve all battle damage from battles involving it until the Battle Phase's end. During the Battle Phase's end, destroy that Monster.
Clear Wrathful Cerberus
ATK: 2500, DEF: 1900, LV: 7
Dark/Beast/Effect
Monster Effect: This face-up card is not treated as a Dark-attribute Monster. All "Clear" Monster you control can inflict piercing damage as long as this card remains face-up on the field. Once per turn, if "Clear World" is on your field, you can send up to three "Clear" Monsters from your Deck to the Graveyard; your Monster can attack a number of times equal to the number of discarded cards during this turn's Battle Phase. If this card is destroyed while "Clear World" is on the field, you can draw cards from your Deck equal to the number of "Clear" Monsters that were destroyed during this turn, including this card.
C/C/C Shadow Bow the Embodiment of Tuned Attacks
ATK: 1900, DEF: 0, LV: 4
Dark/Fiend/Synchro/Effect
1 "C/C" Tuner Monster + 1 Level 1 DARK Monster
Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can inflict 200 points of damage to your opponent for every DARK Monster on the field.
Clear Void Sorcerer
ATK: 2800, DEF: 2000, LV: 8
Dark/Fiend/Effect
Monster Effect: This face-up card is not treated as a Dark-attribute Monster. As long as this card remains face-up on the field, all damage your opponent receives from "Clear" Monsters you control is doubled. Once per turn, you can destroy a number of Spell and Trap Cards on your opponent's field equal to the number of "Clear" Monsters you control. If Clear World is on your field, you can destroy one more such card.
C/C One-Eyed Demon Eye
ATK: 1000, DEF: 300, LV: 3
Dark/Fiend/Ritual/Effect
Monster Effect: You can Ritual Summon this card with Mirror Ritual. This card's name is always treated as "C/C One-Eyed Past Eye" as long as it remains on the field. Once per turn, you can target a Monster your opponent controls and Special Summon a Remnant Token with the same type, Level, ATK and DEF as it, but a different attribute of your choice on their field. If the Remnant Token is targeted by a card effect, destroy it. If a "C/C/C" Monster on your field would be destroyed, you can banish this card from your Graveyard to prevent its destruction.
C/C/C Radiant Artillery the Embodiment of Tuned Attacks
ATK: 2800, DEF: 0, LV: 8
Light/Fiend/Synchro/Effect
1 "C/C" Tuner Monster + 1 Level 5 LIGHT Monster
Monster Effect: When this card declares an attack, your opponent cannot activate face-down Spell or Trap Cards. Once per turn, you can target a "C/C/C" Monster in your Graveyard or banish zone; equip it to this card and have it gain ATK equal to half of the equipped Monster's ATK. If this card successfully attacks an opponent's Monster, you can send the equipped Monster to the Graveyard in order to destroy all of your opponent's Monsters whose Level is equal to or lower than the sent Monster's Level.
Clear Impurity Dragon
ATK: 0, DEF: 0, LV: 10
Dark/Dragon/Fusion/Effect
"Clear Vice Dragon" + 1 "Clear" Fusion Monster
Monster Effect: This face-up card is not treated as a Dark-attribute Monster. Once per turn, you can reduce the ATK of all Monsters your opponent controls to 0 and have this card gain ATK equal to twice the total amount of ATK lost by these Monsters. When this card attacks an opponent's Monster, you can switch that Monster's battle position. Once during either player's turn, if this card would be destroyed by a card effect, it's not destroyed, and you can also prevent another card on your field from being destroyed by that same effect.
C/C/C Water Bardiche the Embodiment of Fused Arms
ATK: 3000, DEF: 0, LV: 8
Water/Fiend/Fusion/Effect
"C/C One-Eyed Past Eye" + 1 Level 7 or higher WATER Monster
Monster Effect: When this card battles a WATER Monster, you can shuffle that Monster back to the Deck before damage calculation and inflict damage to your opponent equal to that Monster's ATK on the field. If this card is destroyed by a card effect, you can destroy all cards on the field.
C/C/C Shadow Greatsword the Embodiment of Fused Arms
ATK: 3000, DEF: 0, LV: 8
Dark/Fiend/Fusion/Effect
"C/C One-Eyed Past Eye" + 1 Level 7 or higher DARK Monster
Monster Effect: When this card is Fusion Summoned, you can negate the effects of all cards on your opponent's field. When this card battles an opponent's DARK Monster, you can destroy it before damage calculation and inflict its ATK as damage to your opponent. If this card is destroyed by battle, halve the ATK of the Monster that destroyed it.
Red-Eyes Psycho Shocker
ATK: 2400, DEF: 1500, LV: 6
Dark/Machine/Effect
Monster Effect: If this card is summoned successfully, you can target a Level 4 or lower DARK Monster in your Graveyard; Special Summon it. If you control at least one other "Red-Eyes" Monster, you can target a face-down Spell or Trap Card in your opponent's Spell/Trap Card Zone; destroy it. Cards and effects cannot be activated in response to this effect.
D/D Magical Savant Paracelsus
ATK: 0, DEF: 600, LV: 1, SC: 12
Dark/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect
Pendulum Effect: If the Pendulum Monster in your other Pendulum Zone isn't a "D/D/D" Monster, destroy this card. When this card is placed in your Pendulum Zone successfully, target the card in your other Pendulum Zone; double its Pendulum Scale. Each time you Pendulum Summon "D/D/D" Monsters, draw one card from your Deck for every such Monster.
Monster Effect: Once per turn, if you would take damage from the effect of a "Contract" card, you can reduce that damage to 0 and target one "D/D" Monster on your field; increase its ATK by an amount equal to the amount of damage you would have received.
Crimson-Eyes Cagnazzo Dragon
ATK: 2400, DEF: 500, LV: 6
Dark/Dragon/Fusion/Effect
1 Level 5 or higher "Red-Eyes" Monster + 1 "Red-Eyes" Monster 2 Levels higher than the other one
Monster Effect: This card can only be Fusion Summoned through the effect of "Crimson Awakening – Infernal Fusion". This Monster is also always treated as a Fiend-type Monster. As long as this card remains on the field, Monsters that are destroyed by battle are banished. Once per turn, you can target a "Red-Eyes" or "Crimson-Eyes" Monster you control apart from this card; increase your Life Points by an amount equal to half that Monster's ATK. When this card attacks an opponent's Monster while your Life Points are higher than theirs, increase its ATK by an amount equal to the difference until the End Phase. When a "Red-Eyes" or "Crimson-Eyes" Monster apart from this card attacks an opponent's Monster while your Life Points are higher than theirs, that Monster gains ATK equal to half the difference until the End Phase. If this card is destroyed, you can Special Summon a "Red-Eyes" Monster from your Graveyard with its ATK and DEF at 0 and its effects negated.
D/D/D Ruthless Impalement King Vlad
ATK: 2700, DEF: 1700, R: 7
Dark/Fiend/Xyz/Effect
2 Level 7 Monsters
Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can detach an Xyz Material from this card; reduce the ATK of all face-up Monsters your opponent controls to 0. When this card declares an attack, you can target the attacking Monster' change its battle position. If this card is destroyed while it has Xyz Materials attached to it, you can Special Summon it during your next Standby Phase with its effects negated, but banish it when it leaves the field.
D/D/D Earthbound Demon King Nobunaga
ATK: 3000, DEF: 2600, LV: 10
Earth/Fiend/Ritual/Effect
Monster Effect: You can Ritual Summon this card with D/D/D Ritual. When this card battles an opponent's Special Summoned Monster with a higher ATK than it, reduce that Monster's ATK to 0, but halve the damage from that battle. When another "D/D" Monster you control destroys an opponent's Monster by battle, you can inflict 600 points of damage to them. When this card is destroyed, you can Special Summon a "D/D/D" Monster from your Deck with its effects negated.
D/D Dullahan
ATK: 700, DEF: 2000, LV: 4
Dark/Fiend/Effect
Monster Effect: When a "D/D" Monster you control battles an opponent's Monster, you can send this card from your hand to the Graveyard; increase that Monster's ATK by 700 until the End Phase. If you would receive a direct attack, you can Special Summon this card from your Graveyard, but banish it when it leaves the field.
Crimson-Eyes Dragunazo Dragon
ATK: 2300, DEF: 0, LV: 5
Dark/Dragon/Fusion/Effect
1 Level 4 or lower "Red-Eyes" Monster + 1 Level 5 or higher Fiend-type Monster
Monster Effect: This card can only be Fusion Summoned through the effect of "Crimson Awakening – Infernal Fusion". This Monster is also always treated as a Fiend-type Monster. Once per turn, if your opponent controls more Monsters than you do, you can Special Summon a "Crimson-Eyes" Fusion Monster from your Extra Deck whose Level is lower than the Monster with the highest Level your opponent controls by ignoring its summoning conditions. Once per turn, if you Fusion Summoned another DARK Dragon-type Fusion Monster during your Main Phase, you can target a Spell or Trap Card on your opponent's field and destroy it.
Red-Eyes Giltia the Dark Knight
ATK: 1850, DEF: 1500, LV: 5
Dark/Warrior/Effect
Monster Effect: If you would receive a direct attack, you can Special Summon this card from your hand. As long as this card remains on the field, "Red-Eyes" Fusion Monsters you control cannot be destroyed by card effects. If this card is destroyed, you can add a "Fusion" Spell Card from your Deck or Graveyard to your hand.
Crimson-Eyes Malacoda Dragon
ATK: 4000, DEF: 4000, LV: 12
Dark/Dragon/Fusion/Effect
1 Level 8 or higher "Red-Eyes" Fusion Monster + 1 Level 8 or higher Fiend-type Fusion Monster
Monster Effect: This card can only be Fusion Summoned through the effect of "Crimson Awakening – Infernal Fusion". This Monster is also always treated as a Fiend-type Monster. This card cannot be targeted for an attack if you control other "Red-Eyes" or "Crimson-Eyes" Monsters. You take no battle damage from battles involving other "Red-Eyes" or "Crimson-Eyes" Monsters you control. If this card would be destroyed by a card effect, you can destroy another "Red-Eyes" or "Crimson-Eyes" Monster on your field. During each Battle Phase, this card can declare a number of attacks equal to the number of unused Monster Zones on your field plus its own. When this card battles, you can send a "Red-Eyes" or "Crimson-Eyes" Fusion Monster from your Extra Deck to the Graveyard in order to increase its ATK by an amount equal to that Monster's ATK. At the Battle Phase's end, Special Summon as many of these discarded Monsters as possible from your Graveyard with their effects negated by ignoring their summoning conditions. If this card is destroyed, your opponent receives damage equal to half its ATK on the field.
D/D/D/D Legend Origin Valiant God-King Gilgamesh
ATK: 4000, DEF: 3500, LV: 12, SC: 0
Light/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect
Pendulum Effect: If you do not have a "D/D/D" Monster in your other Pendulum Zone, negate this card's effects. All "D/D" Monsters you control gain 500 ATK. Any card effects that would reduce your Life Points increase your Life Points instead. Once during either player's turn, you can target a "D/D" Monster on the field; that Monster is unaffected by your opponent's card effects until the end of that turn.
Monster Effect: This card cannot be Normal Summoned or Set. This card can only be Special Summoned when you Pendulum Summon a "D/D/D" Monster while the combined value of your Pendulum Scales exceeds this card's Level by destroying all other Monsters on your field. This card cannot be destroyed by battle or card effects. Once during either player's turn, you can banish a Monster from your Graveyard; all Monsters your opponent controls with the same summoning type as the banished Monster cannot declare an attack and their effects are negated until the End Phase. Once per turn, you can return a Fusion, Synchro, Xyz, Pendulum and Ritual Monster from your Graveyard back to the Deck; banish all cards from your opponent's field, hand and Graveyard, along with five cards from their Extra Deck. Cards and effects cannot be activated in response to this effect. If this card leaves the field, you can Special Summon a "D/D/D" Monster from your hand, Deck, Graveyard or Extra Deck by ignoring its summoning conditions.
Reel Fusion
Continuous Spell Card
Once per turn, you can target an opponent's Monster; Special Summon a Reel Token with the same name, Level and original attribute as it on their field. Then, if you control "C/C One-Eyed Past Eye", perform a Fusion Summon by using it and that token as materials. The summoned Monster is destroyed during the End Phase.
Clear Radiance
Continuous Spell Card
Increase the ATK of all "Clear" Monsters on your field by 500.
Persona Shutter Layer 3
Normal Spell Card
Target a Monster you control and a Monster your opponent controls; the first Monster gains the name, attribute, type and effects of that Monster until the End Phase. If the affected Monster destroys an opponent's Monster by battle, the battle damage is reduced to 0, but your opponent receives damage equal to half your Monster's ATK.
Clear Bargain
Normal Spell Card
Each time a "Clear" Monster on your field inflicts damage to your opponent during the turn you activated this card, you can draw one card from my Deck. You must have "Clear World" on your field to activate this card.
Evil Eye Rebirth
Normal Spell Card
Tribute a "C/C/C" Monster on your field; Special Summon a "C/C Eye" Monster from your Graveyard and draw one card from your Deck.
Persona Overwrite
Normal Spell Card
If you control a "C/C" Monster, you can target a Monster on the field; change its attribute into an attribute of your choice until the end of this turn.
Mirror Ritual
Ritual Spell Card
This card can be used to Ritual Summon "C/C One-Eyed Demon Eye". You must also tribute Monsters whose Level is equal to or exceeds its Level from your field. You can banish this card from your Graveyard to add a Spell Card which includes the word "C/C" in its description from your Deck to your hand.
Clear Vault
Equip Spell Card
Target a "Clear" Monster in your Graveyard; Special Summon it and equip it with this card. If the equipped Monster is destroyed, destroy this card. If this card is destroyed, banish the equipped Monster.
Persona Break
Quick-Play Spell Card
Destroy a "C/C/C" Monster on your field; gains Life Points equal to half its ATK.
Joint Past Loop
Normal Spell Card
If you control no Monsters, you can target a Monster your opponent controls; change its attribute into an attribute of your choice, negate its effects, and then Special Summon a "C/C/C" Monster from your Graveyard with the same attribute as that Monster's current attribute. If you're about to receive a direct attack while the Monster summoned by its effect is in your Graveyard, you can banish this card from your Graveyard to Special Summon that Monster with its effects negated.
Rule of Nihility
Continuous Spell Card
Monsters your opponent controls can only attack Monsters that have the same attribute as them. If you're about to receive damage, you can banish this card from your Graveyard to reduce that damage to 0.
Past Recall
Normal Spell Card
Destroy a "C/C One-Eyed Past Eye" on your field; Special Summon a "C/C/C" Monster from your Extra Deck with the same summoning type as that of a Monster on your field. The summoned Monster cannot declare an attack as long as it remains face-up on the field. You can banish this card and a "C/C/C" Monster from your Graveyard in order to Special Summon a "C/C One-Eyed Past Eye" from your Graveyard. This effect cannot be activated on the turn this card was sent to the Graveyard.
Clear Alchemy
Normal Spell Card
Target a "Clear" Monster on your field; have your opponent draw up to six cards from their Deck (the number of cards drawn is their choice), and then have that Monster gain 500 ATK for every drawn card.
Nihilistic Outcome
Quick-Play Spell Card
Target a "Clear" Monster you control that destroyed an opponent's Monster by battle; that Monster can attack once again on this turn's Battle Phase.
Nihilistic Annihilation Technique
Continuous Spell Card
During each of your Standby Phases, inflict 600 points of damage to your opponent for every "Clear" Monster you control.
Reflective Ray
Normal Spell Card
If you control a "C/C" Monster, you can target a Spell Card in your Graveyard; apply its effects if possible.
Contract with the Mad King
Normal Spell Card
Inflict 300 points of damage to your opponent and draw one card from your Deck for every "D/D/D" Monster with a different summoning type on your field. You cannot conduct your Battle Phase on the turn you activated this effect. You can banish this card from your Graveyard along with a "Contract" card from your hand or field; draw three cards from your Deck, but if there are no "D/D" Monsters among the drawn cards, send your entire hand to the Graveyard and receive 1000 points of damage for every discarded card.
Daemon King's Advent
Normal Spell Card
If you control a "D/D/D" Monster, you can Special Summon a non-Pendulum "D/D/D" Monster from your Deck with its effects negated. You can banish this card from your Graveyard to target a Monster in your Graveyard; treat it as a "D/D/D" Monster until the End Phase.
Red-Eyes Overcharge
Quick-Play Spell Card
If a "Red-Eyes" Monster you control battles an opponent's Monster with a higher ATK than it, double your Monster's ATK, but destroy it at the end of the Battle Phase.
Fusion Treasure
Normal Spell Card
Draw one card from your Deck for every Fusion Monster on the field. If your opponent controls the Fusion Monster with the highest ATK on the field, draw one more card from your Deck.
Pitch-Black Scale Array
Equip Spell Card
Equip this card only to a "Red-Eyes" Monster you control. When the equipped Monster declares an attack, you can target and destroy a Spell or Trap Card on your opponent's field. If this card is sent from the field to the Graveyard before your opponent's next Battle Phase, your opponent can only declare an attack with a single Monster during that Battle Phase.
Unexpected Supply
Normal Spell Card
If you control no Monsters, you can draw one card from your Deck for every Monster with 2000 or more ATK your opponent controls.
Explosive Red Summon
Normal Spell Card
If your opponent controls more Monsters than you do, you can target a Level 4 or lower "Red-Eyes" Monster in your Graveyard; Special Summon it by ignoring any effects that would prevent its Special Summon.
Black Flame Salamander
Equip Spell Card
Equip this card to a "Red-Eyes" Warrior-type Monster you control. Increase the equipped Monster's ATK by 1000. If this card is sent to the Graveyard because the equipped Monster was destroy, draw one card from your Deck.
D/D/D Ritual
Ritual Spell Card
You can use this card to Ritual Summon any "D/D/D" Ritual Monster. You must also tribute Monsters whose Levels are equal to or exceed their Level from your hand or field. If you control at least two "D/D/D" Monsters, you can Ritual Summon without offering a tribute.
Fusion Revival Technique
Normal Spell Card
Target a "Fusion" card in your Graveyard or banish zone; add it to your hand.
Akashic Fusion
Normal Spell Card
If you perform a Fusion Summon of a Fusion Monster that requires a specific "Fusion" card to be summoned, you can treat this card as that "Fusion" card as long as the materials for that Fusion Summon are the appropriate ones.
Sinister Contract with the Outer Deity
Continuous Spell Card
During each of your Standby Phases, receive 1000 points of damage. Once per turn, when a "D/D/D" Monster you control battles a Monster with a higher ATK than it, increase that Monster's ATK by 1000. If you would receive damage from an opponent's card effect, you can reduce that damage to 0 and increase the ATK of a "D/D/D" Monster you control by an amount equal to that damage. In exchange, double the amount of effect damage you will receive from this card's effect during your next Standby Phase.
Forbidden Contract with the Rampaging Warrior
Quick-Play Spell Card
"D/D/D" Monsters on your field that declared an attack during the Battle Phase can attack once again on this Battle Phase. In exchange, any Monsters that declared a second attack due to this card's effect will be destroyed during the Battle Phase's end.
Hellbound Soul
Normal Spell Card
Increase the ATK of a "Crimson-Eyes" Monster on your field by 500. When it attacks a defense position Monster, inflict piercing damage to your opponent. If the Monster affected by this card's effect is destroyed by battle, destroy the Monster that destroyed it and inflict damage to your opponent equal to its Level/Rank x 200.
Clear Call
Normal Trap Card
If a "Clear" Monster on your field was destroyed, you can Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Clear" Monster from your Deck.
Nightmare Rewind Loop
Continuous Trap Card
When a "C/C/C" Monster on your field is destroyed, you can Special Summon a "C/C/C" Monster from your Extra Deck with a different summoning type, but the same Level or Rank and attribute as it by ignoring its summoning conditions (if you Special Summon an Xyz Monster through this card's effect, attach the destroyed Monster as an Xyz Material to it). If this card is destroyed, you can draw one card from your Deck for every "C/C/C" Monster on the field.
Clear Hush
Normal Trap Card
If a "Clear" Monster you control is targeted for an attack, you can destroy the attacking Monster, end the Battle Phase and add a "Clear" Monster whose Level is equal to or lower than the destroyed Monster's from your Deck to your hand.
Persona Shutter – Revive
Continuous Trap Card
Target a Monster in your opponent's Graveyard; Special Summon it to your field and equip this card to it. If this card is destroyed, your opponent gains control of the equipped Monster. If the equipped Monster leaves the field, destroy this card. If you're about to receive a direct attack, you can Special Summon this card as a Normal Monster from your Graveyard in attack mode with the same original ATK, DEF, type, Level and attribute as the attacking Monster.
Past Viewing
Normal Trap Card
Tribute a "C/C/C" Monster you control; Special Summon a "C/C" Monster from your Deck. That Monster cannot be destroyed by battle and you receive no damage from battles involving it.
Rising Red-Eyes
Normal Trap Card
When your opponent's Monster declares an attack, you can Special Summon a "Red-Eyes" Monster from your Graveyard and force your opponent to attack it. That Monster cannot be destroyed by that battle.
D/D Backdoor Deal
Normal Trap Card
All battle damage from battles involving "D/D" Monsters you control is reduced to 0 for the rest of this turn.
Crimson Lock
Counter Trap Card
If you control a "Crimson-Eyes" Monster, you can negate the activation of an opponent's card effect that would target a card on your field.
Zero Sum Penalty
Normal Trap Card
Each time a Monster on your field would be destroyed by battle during this turn's Battle Phase, you can pay 300 Life Points and send a card from the top of your Deck to the Graveyard in order to prevent its destruction and reduce the battle damage to 0. During the End Phase, banish any Monsters affected by this card's effect. If this face-down card was sent to the Graveyard and a "D/D" Monster on your field is targeted for an attack, you can set this card from your Graveyard to your field and immediately activate it. You can only use this effect once per Duel. You can banish this card from your Graveyard; draw cards from your Deck equal to the number of times you used its effect during the previous turn. During the End Phase, take 1000 points of damage for every card you drew.
And that concludes Chapter 54. As most of you had guessed, the Duels here were Reira vs Yusuke and Reiji vs Nightshroud, with Yusho sitting this one out. I had Reira face Yusuke because his Clear Monsters and Clear World gave him a big advantage over Reira, whose Deck relies on using his opponent's Monsters to Special Summon his own. As such, I wanted to showcase Reira's skill by having him circumvent the unfavorable circumstances and emerge victorious. On an unrelated note, you've probably noticed that I've been referring to Reira as a 'he' all this time. Arc-V revealed towards the end that Reira was a girl all along (I think so at least? The anime didn't explicitly stated it as far as I remember), but since I always considered Reira a boy until then, it's really hard for me to refer to him as a her. Therefore, Reira will be a boy in this story.
The second Duel was Reiji vs Nightshroud, an intense clash that Reiji emerged victorious from. Regarding his final trump card, Gilgamesh, I'm aware that a Link Monster sharing the same name as it has appeared in the OCG. Still, I had been planning to introduce this fellow since some time ago, so the name will remain as is.
Well, that's all for now. Please read, review, favorite and follow.
See you all next time!
