Bakugan: Rise to Legend

by ariace613

Sequel to "Zenoheld's Revenge: Annihilation". In the aftermath of the Vexos and Zenoheld, the Brawlers have time to find the source of the mysterious data sent to them, only to find another enemy. They've taken down gods, destroyed world enders, but can they survive a Bakugan war? (You must read my earlier works to understand this.

27. Chapter 27

Good day, readers. I have returned with a new chapter for you all! I hope you'll enjoy it!

Disclaimer: I don't own Bakugan or the characters.

XXX

Chapter 27: The Battle of Gundalia

Ten humanoid figures were inside the bridge of Keith's Vestal Destroyer, conversing their strategies for the attack on Gundalia. The teen were Ren, his five teammates, Keith, Marucho, Mira and Ace.

Several holographic screens were in front of the conference. One of them disgusted the Gundalian capital city. It was several fortified buildings, all ringing one large spire. Obviously, it was prepared for war.

Beside that image was a display of just how many soldiers and combat ready Bakugan Gundalia had in the area. Excluding the Twelve Orders, there were two hundred and seventy soldiers, each with their own Bakugan.

"With a supporting cast like that, how can our performance make any kind of impression on our former employers?", Jesse asked.

"Forget that", Zenet said. "How the hell are we even getting to them?"

"That's only the numbers inside the city", Mason added. "Even if we hold our own, the emperor can call in reserve reinforcements from all over the planet. Close to twelve hundred battlers and Bakugan."

"Hold up. Time out", Ace butted in. "If they had so many all this time, how haven't they crushed Neathia yet?"

"Twelve Order cruisers couldn't carry that many", Lena answered. "Maximum capacity is forty soldiers per warcraft."

"But here, that's not necessary", Sid said. "How are we gonna hold our own for two seconds?"

"You forget, my friend, you do not battle alone anymore", Keith told the Gundalians. "Mira, how goes the construction of the Mechanical legions?"

"Better than I predicted", Mira replied. "We now have over two hundred and fifty units ready for deployment."

"Just two hundred fifty?", Mason questioned. "We're still pretty outnumbered. You sure those things can hold their own?"

"I'm positive", Mira responded. "Besides, we have a… a special surprise for them."

Another holo screen appeared, showing all of the others what Mira meant. A colossal sized Mechanical Bakugan. The main body was red, shaped like a dragon, but was overshadowed by giant legs, claws for arms, and four cannons hanging on top of it.

Marucho, recognizing the figure, gasped in shock. The last time bre saw that thing was in the battle that obliterated his first two Bakugan partners. "That's… That's…"

"Assail Farbros", Mira replied. "A replica, anyway. All of the power and regenerative systems of the original."

Lena took a quick glance at Assail Farbros's statistics. "Impressive. The most powerful thing I've ever examined, statistically."

"How many of those guys do we have, Mira?", Ace asked. "Forget the mechanical legions. I'm willing to bet that two dozen Assail Farbros units could decimate them!"

"Probably, but there's a couple problems", Mira cautioned. "The first is that the hardware itself is so massive and complex, mass production isn't nearly as practical. I've made two in all the time I've had. The second problem is that I couldn't bypass the semi automatic controls so they could fight independently." She took a breath before concluding. "Two of us will have to pilot those things from inside."

"Man, that sucks", Ace said.

"However, to compensate, the Assail Farbros units have been integrated with remote override of the Mechanical legions", Mira said. "Just to make sure the attack stays coordinated."

"Just remember to keep your Bakugan on the army itself", Ren said. "My team has a score to settle with the Twelve Orders."

"What about you and Barodius?", Keith asked.

Ren smiled. "Linehalt and I already beat him before", he said. "This time, it's enough for me to know he went down."

"I assure you, today marks his end", Keith promised. "But first things first: who's going to drive the Farbros units?"

There was a moment of pause after that.

"Maybe we could pick straws?", Marucho thought aloud.

"No need", Ace replied. "Mira's needed in the Destroyer to send in Mechanical Bakugan as they're constructed. Ren and Keith would be more proficient fighting alongside their Bakugan, and Ren's team already are going to finish off the Twelve Orders." Ace shot a look at Marucho. "It's gotta be us two, buddy."

"Whoa… I mean… Ok", Marucho stuttered, at first unsure, but he finished his sayings confidently. It was the most logical and effective course of action, after all. He was still hesitant of being on the giving end of Assail Farbros's power.

"Then it's decided", Keith stated. "We now know our roles in this battle. We'll begin our attack in thirty minutes. Best of luck to you all."

The group dispersed quickly after that, each doing their own business. Mira went to a console, resuming her construction of the Mechanical legions. When the battle began, she would send all the battle ready units to attack, periodically sending reinforcements to make sure the attacking force wasn't overwhelmed.

Each of Ren's team, excepting Ren himself, went to different monitors to examine the Twelve Orders. Their battles against the Brawlers had given the Battle Brawlers invaluable data against Barodius's posse, which their former minions would now use against them.

Ren, though, immediately walked up to Marucho. He had a faraway expression on his face. "Marucho… can we talk?"

Marucho's face was guarded as be looked back at Ren. "Ok", he said. The two began walking, side by side.

For a while, nothing was actually said. It was awkward for both people as they strolled through the Destroyer. Finally, Ren spoke up.

"Do you remember," Ren began, "the days were worked together on Interspace? Working side by side, like two hands of the same body?"

"I can't get it out of my head", Marucho replied. He tried for a humorous tone, but only managed one of genuine aggravation.

"I miss those days", Ren said. "I was wrong to betray the Brawlers like I did. My fear of Barodius's wrath made me do things I'll never forgive myself for."

"Where'd the nostalgia come from?", Marucho said. "Yesterday, you were pretty clear: our friendship was a thing of the past."

"I was paranoid and wrong", Ren admitted. "I recognized the bad blood between us. I couldn't let myself get distracted by guilt."

"Then why don't we finish this talk after the battle's over?", Marucho snapped, his tone faking sarcasm. His eyes glinted with emotion. "I wouldn't want you to get distracted."

Marucho sped up, doing his best to break pace with Ren. The Dark Bakugan protector let him go.

Ah, who am I kidding?, Ren demanded to himself. I'm just scared to take responsibility for my betrayal of the Brawlers. Blamed it on Barodius, then I blamed it on the Brawlers themselves. In the end, he knew who was at fault: himself. And when Marucho reached out emotionally, Ren bit the hand. It was like trying to save a sinking ship with the deck already submerged. In the end, Ren's final attempt was too little, too late.

Ren and Marucho's friendship had died.

XXX

Alice was inside her quarters in a Neathian apartment building, where the owner had allowed each of the Brawlers to take a room. It had everything she needed: a functioning kitchen, comfortable bed, and even a spot for Hydranoid to rest in ball form.

Like everything else in the capital city, it was beautifully decorated, with crystal walls and a magnificent chandelier. Large windows let plenty of natural light in. But Alice had grown blind to those accommodations over time. She was lost in her own thoughts.

In her mind, Alice was replaying the past few months in her mind, back to when she and the Brawlers were flung into the war.

Throughout it all, she only seemed to be going through the motions. She engaged her battling skills, sure, and she was intellectually interested, but she couldn't help but doubt her own motives.

Shun wouldn't understand her thought pattern. His years of ninja training had ingrained in him a warrior's code of honor. He was here for purely selfless reasons.

Marucho was always the optimistic one. He took a great risk to bring Ren into the light. He came to Neathia to bring prosperity to planets at war.

Even Dan, hot headed he may be, only cared about the interests of others in the final accounting. His ego and short temper were purely superficial compared to the moral compass Drago had left in him.

But Alice felt different. At first, she was drawn in this war from being attacked by Gundalian agents. Her choice was made for her. Of course she'd protect the innocent, but she felt something growing within her, a growing darkness familiar to her. One she'd felt and given in to before. It was based around the question of why she was fighting. Was it benevolent, or… was her darkness threatening to consume her again? Like it had on New Vestroia, when she had threatened Shadow Prove's life in the aftermath of Michael's death? The war was taking quite a toll on her, as it seemed to be up to her to win this from day one…

Before she could follow that line of thought to any kind of conclusion, there was a knock on the door, snapping Alice out of her thoughts.

Alice went to the door and opened it. A Castle Knight was outside, standing at attention.

"Miss Alice Gehabich", the Knight said formally. "This is private Leon of the Order of Castle Knights. I was sent to deliver the Battle Gear correlating to Darkus Blackout Hydranoid."

"Ok", Alice replied.

Leon took something from his pocket, opening his hand to show a device roughly cylinder shaped, of course purple and pink in color to correspond to Hydranoid's colors.

"Battle Gear Helmgund", Leon introduced. "One of a kind." He leaned in. "For real, I hope you can figure it out fast. The sooner, the better."

"Thank you, Leon", Alice said.

"It's fine", Leon promised. "Just doing my duty. It was an honor to meet you."

"Likewise", Alice said, giving a smile.

Leon smiled back, faintly, before stepping back and walking away.

Alice took a look at the device, taking out her Baku Pod. The Battle Gear deconstructed into purple particles, being absorbed into the Baku Pod.

"So now, we have our Battle Gear", Alice said. "Barodius… we're ready for you."

"Yes, we are", Hydranoid confirmed.

Alice didn't give a response. She was staying down at her wrist, suddenly consumed in thought again.

"Alice?", Hydranoid asked. "Is something wrong?"

Hydranoid's worried tone allowed Alice to shake herself out of her trance. "Oh, sorry", Alice apologized. "I've just been… thinking."

"What about?", Hydranoid asked, willing to listen.

"We've been fighting this war for a while, Hydranoid", Alice said. "I need you to answer this honestly. As the war is progressing, how are you feeling? Has the battling changed your attitude?"

"I feel… angrier", Hydranoid admitted. "I want to crush Gundalia already and be fine with it. I feel a darkness rising within me. It's not as much as protecting Neathia as it is getting back on Barodius. Why?"

"I'm beginning to think I'm the same way", Alice admitted. "It's becoming harder and harder to remember what we came here to accomplish. …Hydranoid, I don't know what's happening to us."

XXX

The Gundalian war meeting between the Twelve Orders had an aura of tension, just beneath the surface of what was happening.

"Kazarina," Barodius said, his voice completely cold as ice, "I trust that you've fixed the Colossus system."

"Yes, sire", Kazarina promised, her voice showing fear. "Double and triple tested it. It won't fail you again."

"I'll believe that when it happens", Barodius said. "Nurzak, what is the status of our assault party?"

"They are all ready for battle", Nurzak said. "Primed for action."

"Last time, we shattered Neathia's second reliable line of defense", Gill stated. "This time, we'll wipe out all forms of Neathian resistance. The rise of the Gundalian empire is about to begin!"

"Well said, Gill", Barodius said. "Twelve Orders, gather your battalions. We launch our armada for Neathia in ten minutes!"

And then, alarm blared throughout the chamber. A red light flashed.

"Perimeter alarm?", Airzel questioned. "Who the hell is crazy enough to attack our capital?"

"Ren and his team?", Stoica asked thoughtfully. "Maybe their arrogance has outgrown their grey matter."

"We shouldn't jump to conclusions", Gill said, already making contact with the perimeter guard. His Baku Pod made a holographic screen, showing a Gundalian lieutenant.

"Commander Gill!", the lieutenant cried. "We're under attack! We need reinforcements!"

"You'd think that the soldiers you expertly trained could handle six battlers", Kazarina said, sniping Gill under a faint guise of innocence.

That earned Gill's ire, but he kept his attention to his communicator. "What is the attacking force?"

"A whole army", the lieutenant replied. "Two hundred, at least! We're outmatched!"

"Two hundred?", Barodius questioned. "You must be mistaken. The Castle Knights are too cowardly to launch an attack like that."

"Unless…", Airzel began. "Do you remember those machine Bakugan that forced us to retreat our last attack? What if they made more of those things?"

"That would allow them to launch a large attack with little to no militaristic cost to Neathia." Nurzak groaned silently. "I suppose we'll have to delay our final attack against Neathia. It's too risky with a force like that up our front door."

"I'm down to thrash these guys", Stoica cheered. "This way, I don't have to wait until Neathia to battle! It's a win-win in my book!"

"Fine", Barodius snapped. "We will squash this… annoyance… and then we will attack Neathia." He glanced at Nurzak. "Nurzak, send a signal to our reserves. Grind these pests underfoot."

"By your command", Nurzak said.

The Twelve Orders then departed, leaving to make the attacking force desist.

XXX

It was total carnage outside the Gundalian capital city. Gundalian Bakugan of all attributes were engaging against variants of Boriates, Dryoid and MAC Spider. There was aerial combat, as well, as Aluze and Macubass variants combated Ventus Gundalian Bakugan.

Although the Mechanical legions were outnumbered, they are holding their own. But, thanks to two other units and two live Bakugan, they were winning. The two live Bakugan were Supernova Helios and Linehalt, each one mowing down Gundalian Bakugan. The other units were identical Assail Farbros units.

Inside his unit, Marucho was directing Farbros. Sitting on a comfortable chair, he placed ability cards onto a green holographic table, and that was directing the goliath's actions. And Marucho was having a total blast.

"Yeah! Let's go! Ability Activate!", Marucho called out, putting an ability into place. "Shadow Crowley!"

Marucho's Farbros unit aimed his cannons at a large group of enemy Bakugan, who were approaching the combat. Each cannon charged up a boat of red energy, powering up a large blast. When it released the energy, four identical lasers shot towards the group. The lasers hit the group, causing a large explosion that wiped out the whole platoon before they could even get close.

"Yeah, like that!", Marucho cheered.

On his monitor, he saw a Darkus Glotronoid and a Haos Ramdol race towards him, trying to get close enough to make the cannons useless.

"Bad idea, guys!", Marucho called, his hand moving to place another ability on the table. "Ability Activate! Garland Claw!"

The two gargantuan chanute attached to the titanic Mechanical Bakugan shot out from their place, connected to their former positions by metallic cables. The claws quickly intercepted the approaching Glotronoid and Ramdol, then pulling them back like fish in a hook.

After the claws snapped back, the Farbros unit channeled red lightning into the caught Bakugan, electrifying them into submission. Both Glotronoid and Ramdol reverted, being defeated.

"Man, this is awesome!", Marucho chirped.

"You're certainty enjoying yourself", Elico said.

"It's like the greatest shooter game ever made!", Marucho said back. "And I've played every shooter game!"

"It's not a game, Marucho", Ace said through comm. His face was on a nearby holographic screen, as he was controlling the other Assail Farbros unit. "I thought you were nervous about this."

"Well, I'm not using lethal force against any of these guys", Marucho said. "You have to admit it's fun."

Ace cracked a smile. "Yeah. It is."

Marucho checked the damage levels of his unit. Unit integrity was at 38%. He needed to change that.

"Dryoid units ten through thirteen and Aluze units seven and eight, cover my unit", Marucho directed, the Farbros units being an override for the Mechanical legions.

Immediately, three Dryoid units, of Subterra, Pyrus and Darkus variants moved in front of the command unit, utilizing their energy blades to protect the Farbros unit. At the same time, two Aluze versions, Ventus and Haos, worked as air support for the same focus.

"Great, now, Ability Activate!", Marucho yelled, putting the correct ability in place. "FARBAS XM!"

While Marucho's Assail Farbros was being guarded, the unit began to glow red. Depleted energy cells regenerated, and all the damage done to the unit self repaired. When it was finished, the Assail Farbros unit was at 100% integrity.

"Nice work, Marucho", Keith congratulated via comms. "You're a natural at this."

"Like I said, I've done all the shooter games", Marucho said. "Long range attack, short range attack, and healing system. It's the same basic stuff."

"So I guess we have the enemy sufficiently held off", Ren's voice came through.

On his end, he and Keith had their Bakugan engaging a whole platoon of Gundalian Bakugan alone. Helios and Linehalt may have been fierce allies, but they were equally proficient battling partners.

"Atomic Quasar!", Helios roared. He opened his mouth, channeling energy and heat into his mouth. A fireball condensed within his maw, growing to a substantial size and heading up so much, the flashes were white, comparable to plasma. Remarkably, Helios seemed unaffected by the heat of his fireball as he charged it up even further.

Then, he released the fireball, sending it colliding into a Pyrus Snapzoid. The fiery explosion not only consumed the Snapzoid, but also a nearby Aquos Spidaro. Both Bakugan were eliminated in the subsequent firestorm.

"Nice one, Helios", Linehalt said. "My turn. Ren?"

"Ability Activate!", Ren shouted. "Gigarth Ray!"

Linehalt's wings began glowing in a similar purple energy as his previous attacks, the energy glowing brighter and more intense by the second. Before long, the energy condensed into smaller blades, glowing harshly with Linehalt's power.

Linehalt launched the energy blades forward, each of them slamming into a Ventus Farakspin and a Subterra Luxtor. The two targeted Bakugan quickly went down to Linehalt's power.

"I'm glad Helios and Linehalt are enjoying themselves", Keith said to Ren. The two were backed up against a stalagmite, watching their Bakugan tear into the enemy.

"Yeah, they're working together well", Ren agreed. "How many have we taken down?"

"I have no idea", Keith admitted. "They just keep coming!"

And they were. It was a seemingly endless wave of Bakugan. Fortunately, attrition didn't work for Mechanical Bakugan. They did work for Linehalt and Helios, though.

Neither would admit it, but their respective staminas were depleting. It was only a matter of time until they fell to the hordes. That, and a matter of how many enemies they brought down with them.

XXX

Mira was at her place in the Vestal Destroyer's control room, at a control monitor. Two holographic screens floated in front of her. One displayed her Mechanical Bakugan factory, and the other showed an overhead view of the battle.

On her first screen, Mira saw that five Dryoid units had been completed, a full squad. "Keith, do you need help?", she called through comms. "I've got a squad ready for deployment."

"That'd be appreciated", Keith admitted. "We're a bit over our heads here."

"Got it", Mira confirmed. "Dryoid units 26 through 30, transport to Supernova Helios's location." Relaying the commands through her controls. The Dryoid units disappeared, being transported to Keith's location.

"Thanks, sister", Keith said.

"Not a problem", Mira replied.

"Hey, Mira, I've got a visual", Ace called from his comm.

"You see them?", Mira questioned.

"Yeah", Ace confirmed. "They're here."

A third holographic screen appeared, from Ace's feed. The Twelve Orders were there, behind several lines of Gundalian Bakugan. They stood on high fortifications, looking down on the battle. They didn't engage their Bakugan yet, but Barodius looked like he was about to engage Dharak.

"Locking onto their biometrics", Mira muttered, connecting the Transporter to Gill, Airzel, Kazarina, Stoica and Nurzak. "Initiating transportation."

Barodius launched Dharak into the battle, but the Twelve Orders beside him disappeared, being forcibly transported from the battlefield. Barodius looked around, obviously confused.

"Mason, get your team ready. They're on their way."

XXX

"We've got it", Mason promised Mira. He and his team were all grouped up in a mountainous area, secluded from the rest of the Gundalia. "We're ready."

"It is time for our superiors to meet the consequences for abandoning their star talents", Jesse proclaimed. "We shall give them a performance they will never forget!"

"For once, I understand what you're saying", Sid told Jesse. "We're gonna thrash them for throwing us in the dirt."

"This is gonna be fun", Zenet said. "Seriously. I'm really going to enjoy this."

"Our retribution is at hand", Lena stated. An image of Kazarina flashed through her mind, of how Lena's superior took her down almost maliciously. "We're taking them down, here and now."

"Good", Mason said. "Everyone, get ready! Cause here they come!"

As per his announcement, five figures materialized in front of the rogue agents, easily recognized as Gill, Kazarina, Airzel, Nurzak and Stoica.

Gill began to glare at the opposing side. "What did you do to us?"

"Us? Please", Mason admitted. "We couldn't have orchestrated something like this. But we have friends now."

"So you allied with the Brawlers?", Kazarina demanded. "They're the ones who put you in our disfavor by constantly beating you!"

"No, they were simply protecting themselves", Lena retorted. "You were the ones who damned us by setting us up for failure and punishing us when we failed!"

"What do we care about vermin like you punks?", Stoica jeered. "Seriously, why don't you accept that you're nothing and just die?!"

"I'm going to put you into a world of hurt for that comment", Sid promised. "You'll regret every moment of treating us like dirt!"

"It seems we don't have much of a choice", Nurzak derived from the situation. "You won't let us leave without a battle."

"Ah, you've read the script", Jesse replied. His tone was cordial when speaking to Nurzak, contesting the others' open hostility to those who wronged them.

"Can the talk", Zenet snapped. "You think we can all stop stalling and get down to business?"

"Very well. Let the battle begin!", Airzel yelled. He picked a Gate Card and threw it down. "Gate Card, set!" Airzel looked around him, speaking to the Twelve Orders he commanded. "They're nothing compared to us. Time to prove it!"

"Bakugan, brawl!", the five older Gundalians yelled, throwing in their Bakugan. "Bakugan, stand!"

"Rise, Ventus Strikeflier!"

"Rise, Pyrus Krakix!"

"Rise, Subterra Sabator!"

"Rise, Haos Lumagrowl!"

"Rise, Aquos Lythirus!"

In near immediate succession to each other, the announced Bakugan appeared on the field. Upon arrival, each one made quick battle preparations. Strikeflier rose into the air to gain an aerial edge. The others, being ground based, spread out, readying themselves to fight.

Mason looked back at his group. "It's time", he said. "They threw us away, like trash." He gripped Avior in his hand, jaw clenched in anger. "This is everything we've trained for. Let's make them pay!"

"Bakugan, brawl!", the five yelled, engaging their own Bakugan. "Bakugan, stand!"

"Rise, Subterra Avior!"

"Arise, Ventus Plitheon!"

"Let's go, Pyrus Rubanoid!"

"C'mon, Haos Contestir!"

"Here we go, Aquos Phosphos!"

In five flashes of attributed light, the five called Bakugan rose onto the battlefield, hosting down their adversaries. Plitheon refused to ascend immediately, knowing the danger of confronting Strikeflier. The five stood, unified in effort.

(Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900)=4500

(Avior: 800, Plitheon: 800, Contestir: 800, Phosphos: 800, Rubanoid: 800)=4000

"It's best we take the early lead", Airzel reasoned. His Baku Pod revealed one ability. "Ability Activate! Down Clash!"

Strikeflier's head horns began to glow an intense green, bolts of stray energy crackling around, over his allies' heads. As he was charging his attack, Strikeflier eyed all five of his opponents, targeting them.

"Who ordered some barbecue?", Strikeflier taunted, blasting bolts of green lightning at his enemies. "Because my electric fried specials are available!"

(Strikeflier: 900+300=1200, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900)=4800

(Avior: 800-300=500, Plitheon: 800-300=500, Contestir: 800-300=500, Phosphos: 800-300=500, Rubanoid: 800-300=500)=2500

"Sorry, but we're not buying", Mason replied. His Baku Pod flashed an ability in counter. "Avior, let's play defense! Ability Activate! Offering Armor!"

Avior quickly got in front of his cohorts, his brown shell glinting in the light of the electric blast. As the lightning neared, Avior negated to erect an orange dome around his body.

The lightning impacted the shell, bouncing off and sparking harmlessly in other directions. Taking down the shield, Avior glared at Strikeflier.

"Yeah, nice try", Avior sniped.

"Won't be that easy, boss", Mason said sarcastically.

(Strikeflier: 1200-300=900, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900)=4500

(Avior: 500+300+300=1100, Plitheon: 500+300=800, Contestir: 500+300=800, Phosphos: 500+300=800, Rubanoid: 500+300=800)=4300

"Lumagrowl, crush these vermin underfoot!", Kazarina ordered. Her Baku Pod flashed two abilities at once. "Double Ability Activate! Wolf Howler, plus Death Fantasma!"

Lumagrowl's mouth began to open, a bright yellow energy forming within. With a predatorial roar, Lumagrowl unleashed the energy in a blast of Haos power straight at Avior.

At the same time, Lumagrowl's tails once again lit up, glowing yellow with energy. This time, the energy shot out in the form of electric bursts. The electric charge fused with the energy blast in a monumental attack against Avior.

(Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 900+400=1300, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900)=4900

(Avior: 1100-500-400=200, Plitheon: 800-500=300, Contestir: 800-500=300, Phosphos: 800-500=300, Rubanoid: 800-500=300)=1400

"This one will wipe you all out at once", Kazarina said. "I don't usually do an exterminator's job, but this time, it'll be a pleasure."

"I'll save you the trouble", Sid shot back, his Baku Pod displaying an ability. "Rubanoid, Ability Activate! Crimson Defense!"

Rubanoid's body was suddenly coated in a layer of elastic red shell, light enough to allow movement and extremely durable. With speed unlike his capacity before, Rubanoid rushed to intercept the Haos attributed blast.

When the Haos power hit Rubanoid's defense, it lasted only a few seconds before it dissipated, its power undone. Rubanoid dropped to a knee from the effort, but rose back up.

(Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 1300-400=900, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900)=4500

(Avior: 200+500+400=1100, Plitheon: 300+500=800, Contestir: 300+500=800, Phosphos: 300+500=800, Rubanoid: 300+500=800)=4300

"That it?", Rubanoid taunted.

"How dare you-?!", Kazarina outraged.

"Yeah, we dare", Sid countered. "If you think we'll roll over like that mutt of yours, you're dead wrong!"

"Watch who you're calling a mutt!", Lumagrowl howled.

"I'll hear you scream for that", Kazarina promised lowly.

"Kazarina, why don't you let the actually capable accomplish what you fail to", Gill suggested. Kazarina was so flabbergasted, she failed to respond, so Gill went on. "Stoica, Nurzak, let's go."

"Gladly", Stoica replied.

"If you insist", Nurzak said gravely.

Gill was first off the trio to attack. His Baku Pod flashed red, projecting an ability. "Ability Activate! Argon Stream!"

Krakix's two hands both retracted, pulled into his arms and leaving empty holes. Those jokes began glowing brought red, blasting red energy and hot air towards the opposing side.

Stoica cackled dangerously, his Baku Pod revealing one ability. "Ability Activate! Megalo Theria!"

Lythirus's massive claws suddenly opened, glowing a royal blue color for a moment. When that moment passed, the claws fired a stream of bubbles, imbued with his own Aquos power, right at the enemy Bakugan.

The bubble stream went beside the blast of heat, two forces that shouldn't have worked together, but did. A combination like that made both attacks all the more potent.

Nurzak went last. His Baku Pod speedily glowed an ability card. "Ability Activate! Brute Cam Wilder!"

Sabator suddenly rushed ahead, his power and momentum rivaling that of the energy attacks previously fired. As he charged, the metal drills on his knees, shoulders, and elbows all began whirring, somehow granting him more strength.

Sabator's pace showed him to move in tandem with the other two attacks. All three together made four a deadly combo. One the rogue Gundalian agents had only seconds to stop.

(Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 900+500=1400, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 900+500=1400, Lythirus: 900+500=1400)=6000

(Avior: 1100, Plitheon: 800, Contestir: 800, Phosphos: 800, Rubanoid: 800)=4300

"I believe that's our cue, dearest friends", Jesse said, seemingly unconcerned with the approaching threat.

"You said it, mister theater", Zenet joked, her tone careless as well.

"Let's get this done", Lena said. Her tone did convey urgency.

All three held their Baku Pods high, having then each display an ability. "Ability Activate!"

"Stealth Claw!"

Phosphos suddenly drew out his claws, making them glow bright red with excess energy. But then, his entire form disappeared, being camouflaged into the surroundings. Because of the low light level, his shadow was impossible to track.

"Bolting Storm!"

Contestir moved his hands so only a small space was between them. Contestir channeled energy into them, which formed into a single yellow orb, beginning to crackle as the power overloaded. Then, Contestir shot the energy burst forward to counteract the incoming attacks.

"Hyper Verde!"

Plitheon outstretched his sharp blades, preparing his attack. He then began to spin, forming a large twister of green winds and energy. The winds were harsh enough to draw in rocks from the surrounding landscape. Then, he charged downward to block the threat.

(Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 1400-300=1100, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 1400-300=1100, Lythirus: 1400-300=1100)=5100

(Avior: 1100, Plitheon: 800+300=1100, Contestir: 800+300=1100, Phosphos: 800+300=1100, Rubanoid: 800)=5200

Lythirus's bubble attack was suddenly diverted, being drawn into Plitheon's twister. The sharp blades within the tornado popped the bubbles, neutralizing the attack.

"No!", Lythirus shrieked.

The yellow blast that Contestir shot connected with Krakix's heat blast, the two energies contesting four seconds. In the end, they destroyed each other. Krakix growled in aggravation at the development.

Then, Sabator's charge ahead was stopped when he was slammed into by an invisible force. The bull was knocked to the ground. Then, Phosphos reappeared, chuckling menacingly.

"An invisible attack, courtesy of Phosphos, I presume", Nurzak said. "They've grown stronger."

"You're reading too much into it", Stoica jeered. "They're no match for us!" His Baku Pod revealed another ability. "Ability Activate! Merfolk!"

Lythirus's mandibles started glowing blue, charging energy up for his attack. After a few seconds, he fired blue energy in a jagged shape in Rubanoid's direction.

(Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 1100, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 1100, Lythirus: 1100)=5100

(Avior: 1100, Plitheon: 1100, Contestir: 1100, Phosphos: 1100, Rubanoid: 800-400=400)=4800

"As if it'll be that easy", Sid yelled back. His Baku Pod flashed another ability. "Ability Activate! Joule Deeper!"

Rubanoid's mouth opened up, a red glow visible within his maw as he charged up an energy blast. After a few moments, Rubanoid blasted a beam of red energy towards the blue energy bolt heading his way, which was shot by Lythirus.

(Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 1100, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 1100, Lythirus: 1100)=5100

(Avior: 1100, Plitheon: 1100, Contestir: 1100, Phosphos: 1100, Rubanoid: 400+400=800)=5200

The two energy blasts hit each other, the collision making a large explosion. But, at the end, the two canceled each other out, continuing the stalemate between the ten Bakugan.

"Something has to give", Gill said. "We can't let this fight go on forever."

"Then let's break this stalemate", Airzel proclaimed, swiping his hand rightward. "Gate Card Open! Element Merge!"

As the Gate Card opened, the white glow seemingly did nothing for a second. Then, attributed energy poured from the Bakugan of Mason's team and into the Twelve Orders, tipping the power balance towards the Twelve Orders.

(Strikeflier: 900+200=1100, Krakix: 1100+200=1300, Lumagrowl: 900+200=1100, Sabator: 1100+200=1300, Lythirus: 1100+200=1300)=6100

(Avior: 1100-200=900, Plitheon: 1100-200=900, Contestir: 1100-200=900, Phosphos: 1100-200=900, Rubanoid: 800-200=600)=4200

"They transferred 1000 points from our side to theirs' ", Mason murmured. "No. No, I won't let this happen!" His Baku Pod generated two abilities. "Avior, let's go! Double Ability Activate! Luft Howling, plus Bolting Chain!"

Under the brunt of the Gate Card, Avior came out of his shell. The dragonic wings, forked tail, and long neck all extended from beneath the shell, giving Avior full offensive capabilities.

Then, the head opened, charging up orange energy into a compressed blast. At the same time, the two prongs of Avior's tail began generating energy between them. As Avior unleashed his first ability, the orange energy blast slammed into the Gate Card, shattering the card. The energy the Gate Card transferred had returned.

Then, Avior unleashed his second hits second attack. Volleys of orange lightning rocked the Twelve Orders' Bakugan, unsettling their power. The balance was tipped the other direction.

(Strikeflier: 1100-200-300=600, Krakix: 1300-200-300=800, Lumagrowl: 1100-200-300=600, Sabator: 1300-200-300=800, Lythirus: 1300-200-300=800)=3600

(Avior: 900+200=1100, Plitheon: 900+200=1100, Contestir: 900+200=1100, Phosphos: 900+200=1100, Rubanoid: 600+200=800)=5200

"We shall prevail", Nurzak declared. He typed several buttons on his Baku Pod, causing orange particles to appear and assemble a Battle Gear.

"Ready: Chompixx", the Baku Pod reported.

"Battle Gear… Boost!", Nurzak yelled, throwing the Battle Gear at Sabator. When it connected, the field was engulfed in orange light.

When the light subsided, Sabator had two metal sickles arching on the sides of his head. His back had a metal axe on it. Sabator roared with new power.

"Yes, I agree", Gill said. He typed several buttons on his Baku Pod, causing red particles to appear and assemble a Battle Gear.

"Ready: Vicer", the Baku Pod reported.

"Battle Gear… Boost!", Gill yelled, throwing the device toward Krakix. When it connected, a bright red flash resulted.

When the glow died down, Krakix's Battle Gear was on display. Two different weapons connected to an attachment on Krakix's back via long red chains. The first weapon was a sword blade, and the other was a grasping claw.

(Strikeflier: 600, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 600, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 800)=3800

(Avior: 1100, Plitheon: 1100, Contestir: 1100, Phosphos: 1100, Rubanoid: 800)=5200

"Stoica, buy us some time", Airzel commanded.

"Fine", Stoica said stoically, his Baku Pod revealing another ability. "Mow them down, Lythirus! Ability Activate! Acid Bath!"

Lythirus suddenly shot from his mandibles a foamy stream of bubbles straight ahead, threatening to encase all of his adversaries. A stray bubble landed on the ground, dissolving the area to a crater.

"We won't be such easy targets!", Lena yelled, her Baku Pod generating another ability. "Ability Activate! Gorgon Viper!"

With a moment to prepare, four more heads revealed themselves from Phosphos's form. Two from the shoulders, and two from the waist. Then, Phosphos attacked. The three original heads unleashed a torrent of venom, and the other four heads fired a blast of cold.

(Strikeflier: 600-500=100, Krakix: 900-500=400, Lumagrowl: 600-500=100, Sabator: 900-500=400, Lythirus: 800-500=300)=1300

(Avior: 1100-500=600, Plitheon: 1100-500=600, Contestir: 1100-500=600, Phosphos: 1100-500=600, Rubanoid: 800-500=300)=2700

The two Aquos attacks clashed against each other centerfield, both Phosphos and Lythirus giving everything that they had to bring down the others. But they both held, and the stalemate died down once again.

"It's time to end this", Gill said. "Nurzak, with me!" His Baku Pod quickly formed another ability. "Battle Gear Ability Activate! Vicer Oroch!"

The sword blade on Krakix's Vicer Battle Gear started glowing red, channeling energy. With a single effort, the blade blasted a red energy shot at the enemy Bakugan. The red blast seared the air as it continually progressed.

Nurzak went immediately afterward, his Baku Pod flashing another ability. "Sabator, let's go! Battle Gear Ability Activate!", Nurzak yelled. "Chompixx Land Breaker!"

Sabator plunged his sickles into the ground, this time making two cracks in the earth, quickly spreading toward Ingram. As the cracks appeared, huge explosions came as they expanded.

The two Battle Gear attacks kept going, virtually uncontested while on it's path towards the targeted Bakugan. When they came close enough, a mighty explosion resulted.

(Strikeflier: 100, Krakix: 400+500=900, Lumagrowl: 100, Sabator: 400+400=800, Lythirus: 300)=2200

(Avior: 600-500=100, Plitheon: 600, Contestir: 600-400=200, Phosphos: 600, Rubanoid: 300)=1800

The dust cloud from the explosion covered the rogue's side of the field.

"... and that's it", Stoica said. "No way they could've survived that."

"Think again!", Mason's voice shot through thre chamber. The dust cleared, revealing all five Bakugan surviving the attack.

"What?!", Gill questioned in shock.

"Fun fact", Mason called. "Large and straight moving blasts are easy to dodge."

Sid, Jesse and Zenet each had their Baku Pod reveal an ability card. "Ability Activate!"

"Fly Slasher!"

Plitheon flew upward, high above the field. Remaining stationary, his wings shot a barrage of green arcs at the Twelve Orders' Bakugan.

"Scarlet Plate!"

Rubanoid suddenly created several miniature diamond shaped plates, all around him, out of what seemed to be red energy. Without touching the plates, Rubanoid directed them forward, straight at the Twelve Orders' Bakugan.

"Bolting Glow!"

Contestir's right hand began glowing yellow, crackling with electric energy. In one thrust forward, Contestir shot the lightning attack straight ahead, towards his opposing Bakugan.

(Strikeflier: 100, Krakix: 900-300=600, Lumagrowl: 100, Sabator: 800-200=600, Lythirus: 300)=1700

(Avior: 100, Plitheon: 600+400=1000, Contestir: 200+200=400, Phosphos: 600, Rubanoid: 300+300=600)=2700

The Twelve Orders' Bakugan were suddenly under the brunt of powerful barrages from Plitheon, Contestir and Rubanoid. They began groaning in pain.

"Continuous barrages like this one, though, are much harder to evade", Mason said. "You're the ones that are finished!"

After a few seconds of the barrage, each of the Twelve Orders' Bakugan were forced to ball form, returning to their battlers in defeat.

Airzel: 60%

Nurzak: 60%

Stoica: 60%

Kazarina: 60%

Gill: 60%

The Twelve Orders were, put simply, in complete shock from how that battle turned out.

"They couldn't have", Kazarina said. Get head was shaking in denial. "Beating us so… decisively. It's not possible!"

"And without using their Battle Gear, either", Gill added, for once in total agreement with his rival. He glanced at Nurzak with his next part. "I'm beginning to think your assessment of them was right, Nurzak."

"Yeah, whatever", Stoica jeered. "They just got lucky. And that luck is going to run out soon!"

"Wishful thinking like that will damn our chances of victory", Nurzak reprimanded his ally. "They expertly blocked our attacks, then counterattacked with a vengeance. If we're hoping to bounce back from this setback, it won't be from treating them as the inferior battles they once were."

"You're being overdramatic, old man", Stoica insisted. "I can beat them by myself if I wanted to."

"This isn't the time for your vindictive and careless attitude, Stoica", Airzel said. "Nurzak is, more or less, correct in his assessment of our former underlings. If your baseless carelessness costs us this battle, I will personally see you relieved of your rank and status."

On the other side, Mason and his team were watching with serious glares, even Zenet.

"It looks like our predictions were correct", Lena said.

Mason nodded. "Failure made them turn on us", Mason said. "I'd were bailed them together, failure would make them turn on each other."

"Despite their stellar achievements, cohesion amongst a cast is vital", Jesse added. "If there is enough friction between even the best actors, their performances together will be amateur at best."

"This will be easier than taking candy from a baby!", Zenet declared.

"Hold up, Zenet", Sid cautioned. "They're still dangerous. Can't get cocky yet."

"No, we can't", Mason shed, drawing out a Gate Card, throwing it down. "This card will bring them to their knees! Gate Card, set!"

After the Gate Card was fully deployed, all ten battlers gloated at the center of the field, waiting a moment before unleashing their Bakugan once again. "Bakugan, brawl!", they all yelled at once. "Bakugan stand!"

In unison, the ten combating Bakugan rose onto the rocky terrain, their stares boring into their respective opposition. The second round had officially started.

(Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900)=4500

(Avior: 800, Plitheon: 800, Contestir: 800, Phosphos: 800, Rubanoid: 800)=4000

"Lumagrowl, end this now!", Kazarina snapped, her Baku Pod revealing another ability. "Ability Activate! Fang Dome!"

Lumagrowl's body began to light up yellow, an aura covering his fork. The canine growled at his enemies, making a move towards them. His speed was so high, he was only a blur, unable to be locked onto.

(Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 900+300=1200, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900)=4800

(Avior: 800, Plitheon: 800, Contestir: 800, Phosphos: 800, Rubanoid: 800)=4000

"Quite a delicate line you've used", Jesse said. "While pronounced boldly, it lacks a necessary finesse. Allow me to demonstrate!" His Baku Pod flashed two abilities in succession. "Double Ability Activate! Metal Verde, plus Zone Verde!"

"I'm going to smack you into next week!", Plitheon shrieked. His sharp wings and appendages on his body sharpened and began to glisten.

Then, Plitheon's body began glowing green, his power heightening considerably. He began to zoom ahead, with a speed to match even Lumagrowl's efforts.

(Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 1200, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900)=4800

(Avior: 800, Plitheon: 800+300+400=1500, Contestir: 800, Phosphos: 800, Rubanoid: 800)=4700

The ensuing conflict became one between two glowing blurs, one leaving a yellow trail, the other leaving a green streak. It was impossible for anyone to decipher anything more detailed; the two were simply moving too quickly to track.

"What's going on?", Kazarina wondered. "Lumagrowl, finish that insect!"

The two fighting Bakugan only replied by heightening their speed even further. The yellow blur suddenly slammed into the green one, but couldn't force Plitheon down. After what looked like another blow from Plitheon, Lumagrowl's speed ability was broken. The canine Bakugan flow toward the ground, landing with a sickening crunch.

"Yeah, nice one, Jesse!", Zenet cheered.

"Plitheon matched Lumagrowl's speed, with an added melee advantage", Lena noted. "Impressive."

"It's always good for stellar performers to receive appreciation", Jesse stated.

"Heh. That was fun", Plitheon chuckled, coming out of his speed rush. He still looked raring to go, however.

"Useless mutt!", Kazarina yelled, angered and embarrassed at the setback. "Can't you do anything right!?"

"Get out of the way, woman", Gill snapped. "If you can't pull your weight, move aside!" His Baku Pod revealed another ability. "Ability Activate! Burning Nightmare!"

Krakix extended his arms so that they aimed at the enemy. Krakix's hands glowed red, and energy was channeled into the space between the two hands, forming a blast of red energy. Krakix eventually released the blast, sending a large beam of flaring red energy straight at the other side.

A stalagmite was in the park, but Krakix's blast had no trouble melting it into slag. It went on to threaten the rogues' Bakugan.

(Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 900+400=1300, Lumagrowl: 1200, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900)=5200

(Avior: 800, Plitheon: 1500-400=1100, Contestir: 800, Phosphos: 800, Rubanoid: 800)=4300

Mason snickered. Everything was going to plan: the Twelve Orders were beginning to fight each other. Divided, they would fall. "Sid, want to help me out?"

"You got it, boss", Sid replied. Both agents had their Baku Pods display one ability each.

"Ability Activate!"

"Long Aercules!", Mason concluded the naming of his ability.

With a bestial roar, Avior came out of his shell, literally. Two dragonic wings, a forked tail, and a massive neck all extended from the shell. Avior's mouth charged up orange energy.

"Get ready to hurt!", Avior exclaimed, blading the orange energy straight at the other beam, which was fired by Krakix.

"Corundum Tusk!", Sid added.

The fingers on Rubanoid's right hand glowed red, Rubanoid channeling power into them. When Rubanoid pointed those fingers at Avior's orange beam, he blasted red hangs into the blast.

The red energy conjoined with the orange blast, fusing the two powers.

(Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 1300-400=900, Lumagrowl: 1200, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900)=4800

(Avior: 800+400=1200, Plitheon: 1100, Contestir: 800, Phosphos: 800, Rubanoid: 800+300=1100)=5000

The two combined beams overcame Krakix's powers, slamming into the samurai like Bakugan. Krakix dug in his heels, holding his ground against the impact. He outlasted the blast, though his front steamed a bit.

"They're outclassing us again", Nurzak forewarned. "We must turn the tide to our favor quickly, or the battle is already lost."

"Then we'll turn the tide to our favor", Airzel said. "They're not the only ones who can coordinate their attacks. Nurzak, Stoica, with me!" His Baku Pod flashed another ability. Ability Activate! Burst Mistral!"

Strikeflier suddenly ascended high into the air, his form casting a long shadow over the rogues' Bakugan. Once he was high enough, Strikeflier began to spin, his rate accelerating with every passing moment. As Strikeflier kept spinning, a snowstorm shot out, going in every direction. The blizzard ended up reaching each of Strikeflier's opposition, pummeling them harshly.

(Strikeflier: 900+500=1400, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 1200, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900)=5300

(Avior: 1200, Plitheon: 1100, Contestir: 800, Phosphos: 800, Rubanoid: 1100)=5000

Stoica went next, his Baku Pod quickly showing another ability. "We're doing that trick? Fine", he said jovially. "Ability Activate! Merfolk!"

Lythirus's mandibles started glowing blue, with every crackling as it charged. When he was ready, Lythirus leaned forward and blasted the blue lightning ahead at the opposing Bakugan.

"Get ready for torment! Hahahahaha!", Lythirus cackled.

The lightning surged on, striking Plitheon head on. The impact and shock of the attack forced Plitheon to the ground in a painful crash, though he got up for more.

(Strikeflier: 1400, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 1200, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900)=5300

(Avior: 1200, Plitheon: 1100-400=700, Contestir: 800, Phosphos: 800, Rubanoid: 1100)=4600

Finally, Nurzak went. "We won't be defeated so easily. You overestimate yourselves if you think otherwise", he proclaimed. "Ability Activate! Range Sonic!"

Sabator opened up his mouth, channeling energy within. His maw began to light up orange as Sabator's attack charged. A second later, Sabator unleashed a blast of his own Subterra energy. The energy blast struck the ground directly ahead of the rogues' Bakugan, destabilizing their stances.

(Strikeflier: 1400, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 1200, Sabator: 900+300=1200, Lythirus: 900)=5600

(Avior: 1200-300=900, Plitheon: 700-300=400, Contestir: 800-300=500, Phosphos: 800-300=500, Rubanoid: 1100-300=800)=3100

"Whoa, they're getting serious", Zenet remarked. "Lena, let's show those guys our teamwork." Her Baku Pod constructed another two abilities. "Double Ability Activate! Vanguard Lola, plus Shining Monk!"

Contestir lurched over, his horn glowing an increasingly brightening yellow light as Contestir charged up his attack. After another moment, his whole body began to glow in a light just as harsh, until the energy channeled into his horn. The two abilities fused into one devastating attack, and Contestir continued charging it up.

"Yes. I agree", Lena said. Her Baku Pod flashed another ability. "We'll stop them in their tracks." Her Baku Pod displayed another ability card. "Ability Activate! Spit Poison!"

Phosphos aimed his three heads at the Twelve Orders' Bakugan, on the other side of the field, opening each mouth. He let out triplet streams of blue venom from each maw, sending them gushing at the opposing Bakugan.

As Phosphos unleashed his torrent of venom, Contestir then blasted out his energy from his horn. The energy blast soared through the air, flanked by the torrents of venom.

(Strikeflier: 1400-400=1000, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 1200-300=900, Sabator: 1200-200=1000, Lythirus: 900)=4700

(Avior: 900, Plitheon: 400, Contestir: 500+200=700, Phosphos: 500, Rubanoid: 800)=3300

"What was what you said about straight blasts being easy to evade?", Airzel reprimanded, echoing Mason's earlier words. "We'll deal with that easily."

"Then Plitheon and I shall hold you in place", Jesse replied. His Baku Pod flashed another ability. "Ability Activate! Gravity Mine!"

"After your cheap shot, I'm going to enjoy dragging you down!", Plitheon yelled, raising his arms high. His hands glowed green, which spread out to each of the Twelve Orders' Bakugan. The green energy clung to each of them, bringing them to the floor more effectively than even a Land Pressure Gate Card could.

(Strikeflier: 1000-300=700, Krakix: 900-300=600, Lumagrowl: 900-300=600, Sabator: 1000-300=700, Lythirus: 900-300=600)=3200

(Avior: 900, Plitheon: 400+300=700, Contestir: 700, Phosphos: 500, Rubanoid: 800)=3600

While being pulled down by Plitheon's gravitational attack, there wasn't anything the Twelve Orders or their Bakugan could do to prevent the yellow energy and venom torrents from hitting their marks. All five Bakugan were impacted, being knocked to the ground.

"Let's keep going, Cotestir!", Zenet yelled, pressing buttons on her Baku Pod. Yellow electrons appeared, assembling a device.

"Ready: Spartablaster", the Baku Pod reported.

"Battle Gear… Boost!", Zenet exclaimed, throwing the Battle Gear at Contestir. When it connected, it lit up a light that temporarily hid him from view.

When the light subsided, Contestir had equipped his Battle Gear. Four metal blades stick or on his back, spinning to lift him into the air. Contestir groaned with newfound power.

(Strikeflier: 700, Krakix: 600, Lumagrowl: 600, Sabator: 700, Lythirus: 600)=3200

(Avior: 900, Plitheon: 700, Contestir: 800, Phosphos: 500, Rubanoid: 800)=3700

"Let's light it up a bit!", Zenet cheered. Her Baku Pod flashed another ability. "Battle Gear Ability Activate! Spartablaster Sun!"

With the call of Zenet's ability, the Spartablaster on Contestir's back began to light up an impossibly harsh light, spreading the light throughout the field. The light was all the more effective in the sun devoid Gundalia, to the point where nearly everyone was blinded. Bit the Twelve Orders suffered the most.

(Strikeflier: 700-400=300, Krakix: 600-400=200, Lumagrowl: 600-400=200, Sabator: 700-400=300, Lythirus: 600-400=200)=1200

(Avior: 900, Plitheon: 700, Contestir: 800, Phosphos: 500, Rubanoid: 800)=3700

"Lythirus, what are you waiting for? Let's get going!", Stoica shrieked, pressing buttons on his Baku Pod. However, his Battle Gear didn't construct itself.

"Forget it", Nurzak reprimanded. "That ability blocks us from deploying our Battle Gear."

"Now, time to finish you off!", Mason roared, extending his hand forward. "Gate Card Open! Forcement Enemy!"

The Gate Card responded to Mason's command, emitting a white glow. In unison, each of the rogue's Bakugan flowed their Attribute color, their power being enhanced tremendously.

"Oh… Yeah!", Plitheon yelled. "Whatever you did, I like it!"

"I know what you're saying", Rubanoid agreed.

(Strikeflier: 300, Krakix: 200, Lumagrowl: 200, Sabator: 300, Lythirus: 200)=1200

(Avior: 900+500=1400, Plitheon: 700+500=1200, Contestir: 800+500=1300, Phosphos: 500+500=1000, Rubanoid: 800+500=1300)=6200

"How… he increased all their powers", Kazarina gasped.

"Forcement Enemy", Gill said. "It increased all their powers by 100 times the number of enemy Bakugan they are facing. So, our numbers boosted their power big time."

"And we can't use our Battle Gear thanks to Zenet's little trick", Airzel added.

"You've got that right!", Contestir yelled. His Battle Gear was shining bright as ever, unsettling the Twelve Orders' chances of regrouping.

"I'll… pummel you…", Sabator groaned, marching into the light, doing his next to glare st Contestir. "Maybe a thrashing will stop that light of yours!"

"You won't get that far", Lena retorted, her Baku Pod forming another ability. "Ability Activate! Tri Viper!"

Phosphos locked his three heads onto the approaching Sabator, gurgling as he felt vile poisons rise through each of his throats. When the Subterra Twelve Order Bakugan got himself in range, Phosphos unleashed a torrent of venom, all of which consumed Sabator.

(Strikeflier: 300, Krakix: 200, Lumagrowl: 200, Sabator: 300-300=0, Lythirus: 200)=900

(Avior: 1400, Plitheon: 1200, Contestir: 1300, Phosphos: 1000, Rubanoid: 1300)=6200

With the venom engulfing his entire form, and Contestir keeping his Battle Gear Ability going, even the rigid and impossibly stubborn Sabator couldn't find the strength to continue. He dropped to his knees, unable to go further.

"Sabator!", Nurzak yelled in distress.

"Looks like the old geezer is finally getting some comeuppance", Kazarina sniped.

"He's not the one who deserves it", Gill said, gloating at his Haos counterpart.

"You're correct. He isn't", Kazarina said, returning the glare.

"He's buying us time", Airzel growled, glaring at them both. "Time that will be squandered if you keep up your refusal to cooperate!" He sighed, having his Baku Pod generate an ability. "I'll hold them off as long as I can. Then, you attack! Strikeflier, Ability Activate! Mirage Typhoon!"

Strikeflier suddenly ascended weirdly over the battlefield, charging up his attack. He flexed his legs, revealing gray bird-heads on his kneecaps. Those bird-heads opened their mouths erode, creating a pulse of green energy, spreading down to the opposing Bakugan. The pulse wave showed down the rogues and forced them to defensive positions, yet it was nowhere near enough to deter them.

(Strikeflier: 300+400=700, Krakix: 200, Lumagrowl: 200, Sabator: 0, Lythirus: 200)=1300

(Avior: 1400-400=1000, Plitheon: 1200-400=800, Contestir: 1300-400=900, Phosphos: 1000-400=600, Rubanoid: 1300-400=900)=4200

Gill and Kazarina glared at each other, both refusing to abandon the stare down.

"Are you going to stand down and let me finish this properly?", Gill asked.

"I won't back down to you. You're not the general anymore", Kazarina shot back.

"You never listened to me when I was general!"

"So why would I listen now?"

"Enough!", Airzel ordered. He glared at them with an even greater intensity. He said nothing more, but the look in his eyes conveyed the point.

"Fine", Gill and Kazarina said in unison, with equal aggravation. Each one prepared an ability. "Ability Activate!"

"Deadly Inferno!"

"Arcadia Sword!"

The two horns on Krakix's samurai helmet glowed red, red lightning crackling between them, similar to Avior's Bolting Chain. Krakix then launched the lightning towards the opposing side, sizzling the air add it progressed toward its target.

Meanwhile, the six sword-like tails on Lumagrowl started glowing bright yellow. As Lumagrowl aimed his tails at the enemy, they shot a barrage of yellow energy swords with a vengeance, mercilessly assaulting the rogue Bakugan.

In no time at all, the bunkered down Bakugan were forced on a complete defensive, with one powerful attack being supplemented by two others. There was simply nowhere to go.

(Strikeflier: 700, Krakix: 200+400=600, Lumagrowl: 200+500=700, Sabator: 0, Lythirus: 200)=2200

(Avior: 1000-400-500=100, Plitheon: 800-400=400, Contestir: 900-400=500, Phosphos: 600-400=200, Rubanoid: 900-400=500)=1700

One by one, each of the rogues' Bakugan glowed their Attribute color, going to ball form in defeat. The Twelve Orders' followed, but went to their battlers' hands, proving their victory.

Mason: 80%

Lena: 80%

Sid: 80%

Zenet: 80%

Jesse: 80%

"Huh?", Zenet questioned.

"They got us back", Sid stated the obvious.

"We're not finished yet!", Mason encouraged. "We're stronger, remember? We can do this."

"Bold words, Mason", Nurzak called, tossing a Gate Card down. "Let's put them to action, shall we? Gate Card, set!

After the Gate Card was fully deployed, all ten battlers gloated at the center of the field, waiting a moment before unleashing their Bakugan once again. "Bakugan, brawl!", they all yelled at once. "Bakugan stand!"

In unison, the ten combating Bakugan rose onto the rocky terrain, their stares boring into their respective opposition. The final round had officially started.

Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900

Avior: 800, Plitheon: 800, Contestir: 800, Phosphos: 800, Rubanoid: 800

"We must keep them behind on the defense. It's our best chance!", Nurzak yelled, his Baku Pod revealing another ability. "Ability Activate! Destroy Horn!"

Sabator's metallic horns began charging up a new attack. Bolts of orange lightning shot in random directions, charring the ground where it was struck. In one moment, Sabator blasted the lightning ahead, at all five of his adversaries.

"This one's going to hurt you in the morning", Sabator yelled. "And every morning after this!"

Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900

Avior: 800-400=400, Plitheon: 800-400=400, Contestir: 800-400=400, Phosphos: 800-400=400, Rubanoid: 800-400=400

"Not so fast", Mason retorted, his Baku Pod revealing another ability. "Avior, up front! Ability Activate! Offering Armor!"

Once more, Avior quickly got in front of his cohorts, his brown shell glinting in the light of the electric blast. As the orange lightning neared, Avior negated to erect an orange dome around his body.

The lightning impacted the shell, bouncing off and sparking harmlessly in other directions. The Subterra defense proved more than adequate if taking on the Subterra attack. Taking down the shield, Avior glared at the enemy.

"Try harder", Avior sniped.

Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900

Avior: 400+400+300=1100, Plitheon: 400+400=800, Contestir: 400+400=800, Phosphos: 400+400=800, Rubanoid: 400+400=800

"Contestir, go!", Zenet exclaimed, her Baku Pod revealing another ability. "Take them down! Ability Activate! Bolting Glow!"

Contestir's right hand began glowing yellow, crackling with electric energy. In one thrust forward, Contestir shot the lightning attack straight ahead, towards his opposing Bakugan. The lightning bolt continued ahead, unchallenged for its entire flight time until it was right in front of the Twelve Orders' Bakugan. It's direct path would strike Lythirus dead on.

Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900-200=700

Avior: 1100, Plitheon: 800, Contestir: 800+200=1000, Phosphos: 800, Rubanoid: 800

"Don't make me laugh, little girl", Stoica growled, his Baku Pod flashing another ability. "Go, Lythirus! Ability Activate! Eel Weakness!"

Lythirus started at the incoming energy bolt, his fractured eyes glowing blue with a strange energy. The yellow bolt began glowing blue, stopped in place by Lythirus's ability. After a moment, the lighting bolt broke down, dissolving from Lythirus's power.

Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 900, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 700+200=900

Avior: 1100, Plitheon: 800, Contestir: 1000-200=800, Phosphos: 800, Rubanoid: 800

"They nullified my ability, Zenet!", Contestir reported to his battler.

"And we're blocking any more abilities you rodents might have!", Stoica cackled, butting into Contestir's statement. "So good luck trying to attack now!"

"Your blessings are not necessary", Jesse replied, his Baku Pod shining another ability. "We've learned to make our own luck! Ability Activate! Fencer Shield!"

Plitheon stretched out with his hands, expressing energy directly outward. Green winds twisted in a sideways formation, being funneled right at Lythirus.

The cyclone engulfed Lythirus, doing no direct damage to the Aquos Bakugan, but his eyes returned from glowing blue back to its natural orange color.

"My ability!", Lythirus protested.

Contestir raised his hands, testing the waters. Lythirus didn't seem to have a hold on him anymore. "Plitheon, thanks", Contestir said.

"Forget about it", Plitheon projected in response. "I do need some backup when I take these losers down."

"I won't need any help to take you down", Gill said, his eyes blazing with barely contained rage. He may not have been the General anymore, but he was still the best battler there. And he would prove it. "Krakix, obliterate them, now! Double Ability Activate! Gaia Exclamation, plus Deadly Inferno!"

From the double ability just put into action, Krakix's body began lighting up red with an energy surge. Power followed into three earth, causing cracks to spread to the other side of the field. From each crack rose up columns of flames.

At the same time, the rest of the amassed energy was channeled into Krakix's samurai like helmet. The yellow blades on the helmet glowed bright red, with bolts crackling between them. Krakix, along a monstrous roar, blasted a large bolt of red lightning straight ahead at his opponents.

Strikeflier: 900, Krakix: 900+600+400=1900, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900

Avior: 1100-400=700, Plitheon: 800-400=400, Contestir: 800-400=400, Phosphos: 800-400=400, Rubanoid: 800-400=400

The devastating combination of ground based blazes and airborne lightning bolts forced each of the rogues to scatter, breaking their defensive formation and putting them all on the run. They all escaped the direct fallout of Krakix's attack, but the real damage had been done.

"That's it!", Airzel shouted. "Twelve Orders, let's go! Take them down before they can regroup!" His Baku Pod generated an ability. "Ability Activate! Burst Mistral!"

Once more, Strikeflier suddenly ascended high into the air, his form casting a long shadow over the rogues' Bakugan. Once he was high enough, Strikeflier began to spin, his rate accelerating with every passing moment. As Strikeflier kept spinning, a snowstorm shot out, going in every direction.

The blizzard ended up reaching each of Strikeflier's opposition, pummeling the separated Bakugan harshly. The snowstorm severely limited their chances of regrouping.

Strikeflier: 900+500=1400, Krakix: 1900, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900

Avior: 700, Plitheon: 400, Contestir: 400, Phosphos: 400, Rubanoid: 400

"Mow them down! Mow them all down!", Stoica yelled, his Baku Pod revealing another ability card. "Ability Activate! Megalo Theria!"

Lythirus's massive claws suddenly opened, glowing a royal blue color for a moment. When that moment passed, the claws fired a stream of bubbles, imbued with his own Aquos power, right at the enemy Bakugan.

The bubbles all barraged the rogue Bakugan, who were already under bront from Strikeflier's snowstorm. The five Bakugan managed to endure both until they ceased, though they were much worse for wear.

Strikeflier: 1400, Krakix: 1900, Lumagrowl: 900, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 900+500=1400

Avior: 700, Plitheon: 400, Contestir: 400, Phosphos: 400, Rubanoid: 400

Avior huffed, faring the beast amongst his comrades. "Is that… the best you can do?", he

"Lumagrowl, get in there!", Kazarina ordered. Her Baku Pod flashed another ability. "Get Avior! Ability Activate! Spiral Blade!"

Lumagrowl ran ahead of the group, charging at Avior. His six tails each glowed bright yellow, lengthening by several times. When Lumagrowl got in range of Avior, he slashed with each of his tails, barraging the shelled Avior and retreating before Avior could react.

Strikeflier: 1400, Krakix: 1900, Lumagrowl: 900+300=1200, Sabator: 900, Lythirus: 1400

Avior: 700-300=400, Plitheon: 400, Contestir: 400, Phosphos: 400, Rubanoid: 400

Finally, Nurzak raised his arm, his Baku Pod revealing another ability. "This is the end of your line", he declared. "Sabator, Ability Activate! Range Sonic!"

For another time, Sabator opened up his mouth, channeling energy within. His maw began to light up orange as Sabator's attack charged. A second later, Sabator unleashed a blast of his own Subterra energy. The energy blast struck the ground directly in the center of the rogues' Bakugan's area, destabilizing their stances and forcing them to the edges of their respective staminas.

Strikeflier: 1400, Krakix: 1900, Lumagrowl: 1200, Sabator: 900+300=1200, Lythirus: 1400

Avior: 400-300=100, Plitheon: 400-300=100, Contestir: 400-300=100, Phosphos: 400-300=100, Rubanoid: 400-300=100

"They're pushing hard", Mason grunted. "Guys, let's push back a bit harder!"

"Trust me. It'll be my pleasure", Sid grunted. His Baku Pod formed two abilities at once. "Double Ability Activate! Scarlet Plate, plus Joule Deeper!"

Rubanoid suddenly created several miniature diamond shaped plates, all around him, out of what seemed to be red energy. Without touching the plates, Rubanoid directed them forward, straight at the Twelve Orders' Bakugan.

Then, Rubanoid's mouth opened up, a red glow visible within his maw as he charged up an energy blast. After a few moments, Rubanoid blasted a beam of red energy alongside his jewel barrage. The jewels circled the energy blast, making one combination attack heading in Krakix's direction.

Strikeflier: 1400, Krakix: 1900-300=1600, Lumagrowl: 1200, Sabator: 1200, Lythirus: 1400

Avior: 100, Plitheon: 100, Contestir: 100, Phosphos: 100, Rubanoid: 100+300+400=800

The combination attack struck Krakix dead on, though the samurai had absolutely no trouble withstanding the attack.

"Alright, go!", Sid motioned to his four other teammates. Each of them had prepared their counterattack.

"Ability Activate!"

"Advance Rapier, plus Bolting Storm!"

Contestir's hands, head horn and shoulder cannons all began top light up an increasingly brightening yellow, energy being amassed within them. After a moment of powering up, Contestir moved his hands closer together, condensing the energy on his hands into one orb in the space between.

"See how you like this!" Contestir yelled, unleashing all of his energy onto one fused orb of Haos power.

"Long Aercules!"

With a bestial roar, Avior came out of his shell, literally. Two dragonic wings, a forked tail, and a massive neck all extended from the shell. Avior's mouth charged up orange energy, with avior's power being channeled through hours long neck.

"Get ready to hurt, all of you!", Avior exclaimed, sending the orange energy straight at the opposition alongside Contestir's energy blast.

"Drake Twister, plus Hyper Verde!"

"We will not be overcome!", Plitheon exclaimed. His body began to spin in the air, collecting winds and energy from around him. In no time, he was surrounded by a large green tornado, which was only enhanced by metallic blades from Plitheon. It was a deadly combination.

"Gorgon Viper!"

With a moment to prepare, four more heads revealed themselves from Phosphos's form. Two from the shoulders, and two from the waist. Then, Phosphos attacked. The three original heads unleashed a torrent of venom, and the other four heads fired a blast of cold.

Strikeflier: 1400-400-500=500, Krakix: 1600-400-500=700, Lumagrowl: 1200-300-500=400, Sabator: 1200-300-500=400, Lythirus: 1400-400-500=500

Avior: 100+400=500, Plitheon: 100+400+300=800, Contestir: 100+400+300=800, Phosphos: 100, Rubanoid: 800

The nine blasts from Contestir, Avior and Phosphos all crashed against the Twelve Orders' Bakugan, doing as much damage as was given to them. Plitheon's tornado then got top them, splashing them with metal blades. The tornado kept going, keeping the Twelve Orders momentarily at bay. When it finally stopped, all five were winded, unable to counterattack for the moment.

"Lena, Zenet, let's finish this", Sid ordered. "We'll stop them in their tracks!" All three of them raised their Baku Pods for one more attack from each.

"Ability Activate!"

"Hyper Sky Bolt!"

The shoulder cannons on Contestir began glowing brought yellow, forming orbs of Haos energy. After a few seconds, the orbs began jutting out of the cannons, crackling with an energy overload. At that time, Contestir released them, sending them flying at Strikeflier.

The energy orbs hit Strikeflier, consuming his form in a coating of gray. His power was completely suppressed. He quickly fell and crashed to the ground.

"Strikeflier!", Airzel exclaimed. "You'll regret that."

"Tri Viper!"

Phosphos's original three heads all aimed st Lumagrowl, taking the four legged Bakugan while he was still winded. Phosphos blasted Lumagrowl with the torrents of blue venom, which consumed the Haos Bakugan quite effectively. Lumagrowl grunted and howled, but his power was already neutralized.

"Lumagrowl!", Kazarina barked. "What are you doing? Get back in there!"

"Mirage Field!"

Rubanoid's eyes flashed red for only a moment, sending a pulse of energy. The field was engulfed in a dome of rubies, large enough to cover all three of the remaining opponents, Sabator, Krakix and Lythirus.

"Oh, you think a pathetic move like that will stop us?", Stoica demanded.

"Actually, it will", Nurzak pointed out. "Between those three abilities, all of us have been stopped in place. We cannot use our abilities. But I have a solution." Nurzak reached out with his arm. "Gate Card Open! Enemy Resetter!"

Add the Gate Card reacted to Nurzak's call, a white glow permeated through all three of the rogues' latest abilities. Strikeflier returned to normal, the venom on Lumagrowl evaporated off him, and the ruby dome disappeared like an illusion.

"Enemy Resetter not only nullifies all of the opponents' active abilities," Nurzak began, "but it also connects with all Battle Gear on my side, instantly upgrading their power to level two capacity. This is over." With one look alongside each other to confirm, each of the Twelve Orders summoned their Battle Gear.

"Ready: Chompixx."

"Ready: Vicer."

"Ready: Barias Gear."

"Ready: Battle Turbine."

"Ready: Razoid."

"Battle Gear… Boost!", each of the Twelve Orders yelled, throwing their Battle Gear to their respective Bakugan. Within moments, each one was fully deployed.

Sabator had two metal sickles arching on the sides of his head, pointing downwards threateningly. His back had a metal axe on it, capable of sinking into the ground.

In addition, Lumagrowl had new weapons on his body. Two circular cannons lined up on one side of his back, connected to each other by metal going over Lumagrowl's back.

It was also so with Krakix. Two different weapons connected to an attachment on Krakix's back via long red chains. The first weapon was a sword blade, and the other was a large grasping claw.

Strikeflier's appearance had also changed noticeably. Two turbines appeared, one on each wing, and each one had innumerable holes in them. Two large cannons rested on the side of his waist. Strikeflier was ready for action.

Finally, Lythirus's appearance changed significantly. His regular claws had been pulled back, making room for a pair of metal claws. He stood more upright, pointing the fingers of his new claws at the opponents.

As each Battle Gear was deployed, they began glowing in their respective Attribute color, the Gate Card truly heightening their power. The advantage belonged to the Twelve Orders.

Strikeflier: 600, Krakix: 800, Lumagrowl: 500, Sabator: 500, Lythirus: 600

Avior: 500, Plitheon: 800, Contestir: 800, Phosphos: 100, Rubanoid: 800

"What will you do?", Kazarina mocked. "In just a second, we'll wipe you all off of the map!"

"Thanks for the warning, witch", Mason retorted, his Baku Pod already putting an ability into action. "That's all the time I need! Ability Activate! Battle Howling!"

"You're going down! All of you!", Avior yelled, his mouth unleashing a pulse shockwave of orange energy. The shockwave overcame each of the Twelve Orders' Bakugan, though it seemingly did nothing to damage them.

"Pitiful worms", Kazarina sniped. "I think I'll just put you out of your misery! Battle Gear Ability Activate! Barias Gear Thunderbolt!"

Lumagrowl waited for the power surge that accompanied his Battle Gear's attack, but nothing happened. The ability was preempted before it ever began. "Mistress! It's not working!", Lumagrowl howled.

"What?!", Kazarina questioned.

Mason had a small smirk on his face. "Too easy", he said. "We forced you to open your Gate Card. Now that it's open, there's nothing to stop Battle Howling from blocking all of your abilities!"

"You… no! You couldn't!", Stoica shouted.

"We did", Mason said. "Guys, pick your targets. Avior and I will keep their leashes on tight."

"And I'll enjoy every moment of it!", Avior declared.

"Cool", Zenet said. Her Baku Pod flashed another ability. "Ability Activate! Vanguard Lola!"

Contestir lurched over, pointing his head horn at Lythirus. Said head horn began glowing yellow as energy was channeled within. When Contestir was ready, he blasted Lythirus with a small bolt of yellow energy.

Lythirus: 600-200=400

Contestir: 800+200=1000

The bolt struck Contestir with surefire precision, knocking the targeted Bakugan down. Made useless by Avior's persistence, Lythirus was forced to ball form, which flew through the air to go to Zenet's palm.

Stoica: 0%

Stoica was, for once, shocked into complete silence, unresponsive to the development.

"I never liked you much, Stoica", Zenet said, concluding her role in the battle.

"It is time for your career to conclude, Nurzak!", Jesse exclaimed. His Baku Pod flashed another ability. "No encores for you! Ability Activate! Fly Destroyer!"

"This is the end!", Plitheon exclaimed, creating a green see-through booster shield, and firing a green beam through it. As the beam passed the booster shield, it turned jagged, like lightning, and was greatly enlarged. The energy blast connected with Sabator, sending him to the ground.

Sabator: 500-400=100

Plitheon: 800

From the power of Plitheon's attack, Sabator began following orange, his bak form shooting into Jesse's hand.

Nurzak: 0%

"I hold no ill will towards you personally, Nurzak", Jesse admitted. "You have previously treated me according to my talent. But if you stand with the Twelve Orders, I cannot hold back."

"Your cordiality is appreciated, Jesse", Nurzak replied. "But my fate is sealed."

"Here we go, Phosphos!", Lena called out, throwing her previously summoned Battle Gear, Terrorcrest. "Battle Gear… Boost!"

In a second, Phosphos's Battle Gear was summoned. It was shown to be two claws machines over his real claws, along with a metallic tail on his back. Phosphos yelled as he felt the power surge through him, raising his level to 200.

Lena quickly had her Baku Pod reveal another ability. "Battle Gear Ability Activate! Terrorcrest Stigma!"

Phosphos's two enlarged claws glowed blue with energy. After a moment, Phosphos released the energy outwards at Lumagrowl.

Lumagrowl: 500-400=100

Phosphos: 200+400=600

The energy hit Lumagrowl, forcing the Haos Bakugan to ball form. Lumagrowl soared into Lena's hand in the defeat.

Kazarina: 0%

"You!", Lena roared in outrage. "You sabotaged me! You ruined me, but now, you're the insect!"

"I will not be ridiculed, worm!", Kazarina spat. "Return Lumagrowl and get on your knees, and I'll grant you a swift death!"

"You're the one who should kneel!", Lena returned.

Meanwhile, Strikeflier quickly flew up, hoping to get out of range. "I'm not going that easy!", he yelled.

"Yeah. You are", Sid replied. His Baku Pod displayed another ability. "Rubanoid, Ability Activate! Corundum Tusk!"

The fingers on Rubanoid's right hand glowed red, Rubanoid channeling power into them. Aiming at the airborne Strikeflier, Rubanoid unleashed the energy in the form of red bursts.

Strikeflier: 600

Rubanoid: 800+300=1100

The red bursts somehow connected with Strikeflier with a direct hit, blasting him out of the sky. Turning to ball form, Strikeflier's course shifted until he landed in Sid's palm.

Airzel: 0%

"Big bad general", Sid mocked. "You're not so tough now, huh?"

"I… I can't believe it." Airzel, in shock, dropped to a knee. "I lost."

Gill looked around. One by one, each of his allies had been bested by their former inferiors. But he was still in the battle. Once Mason made his move, so would he.

Mason, whose Battle Gear was already in his hand, threw Lashor ahead, directly at Avior. "Battle Gear… Boost!"

In a moment, Avior's Battle Gear had arrived. Two circular jet engines lined under each wing, making four in total, and a metallic drill rested on Avior's back. Avior's power rose to 600.

"I'll enjoy this", Mason predicted. His Baku Pod flashed another ability card. "Battle Gear Ability Activate! Lashor Heavy Striker!"

All four of Lashor's jet engines began to glow orange, energy being poured into them all. When he was ready, the jet engines themselves fired four identical blasts of orange energy, all heading for Krakix.

Krakix: 800-400=400

Avior: 600+400=1000

"Fools", Gill said. "When you attacked, Battle Howling lost its effect on Krakix. And with the Gate Card like it is, I'm not done yet!" His Baku Pod flashed another ability, successfully. "Battle Gear Ability Activate! Vicer Fire Clout!"

The two weapons on the Vicer Battle Gear began to change. The grabbing claw opened wide, and the sword blade split into two. Each weapon generated electricity between their spaces.

The two spilt weapons shot red electricity, but not at the opponents. They fired their energy at the space directly in front of Krakix, allowing the bolts to merge into a massive blast of light-red energy, growing by the moment. When Krakix unleashed the power, it went directly for three four beams from Avior.

The resulting shockwave sent all of the rogues backwards, except Avior, who was caught in stalemate.

Krakix: 400+700=1100

Avior: 1000-700=300, Plitheon: 800-700=100, Contestir: 1000-700=300, Phosphos: 600-700=0, Rubanoid: 1100-700=400

Slowly, the point of collision moved towards

Avior. Everything the Lashor Battle Gear had wasn't enough, insufficient against Krakix.

"Avior", Mason muttered.

"What're you doing, standing there?", Avior demanded. "I could use a hand!"

"Yeah. Right", Mason responded, his Baku Pod shining another two abilities. "Double Ability Activate! Long Aercules and Ifreet Cannon!"

While keeping up his attack through his Battle Gear, Avior lit up a power through his maw. Opening his mouth wide, Avior unleashed a flaring power into the stalemate.

Krakix: 1100-400-300=400

Avior: 300+400=700, Plitheon: 100, Contestir: 300, Phosphos: 0, Rubanoid: 400

The collision began to shift back towards Krakix, the advantage very slightly in Avior's favor.

"Jesse, preemptive attack!", Mason directed. "Don't let him turn the tide!"

"It'll be a pleasure", Jesse replied. His Baku Pod shined another ability. "Ability Activate! Life Eater!"

Plitheon ascended quickly, flying over Krakix. Plitheon fired down several orbs of green energy, many of which hit down onto Krakix.

Krakix: 400-300=100

Avior: 700, Plitheon: 100, Contestir: 300, Phosphos: 0, Rubanoid: 400

Plitheon's interference diverted Krakix's attention just enough that the Vicer Battle Gear caved into Avior's attack. Krakix was blasted by Avior's full power almost instantly. Even Krakix was forced to ball form, dropping into Mason's hand.

Gill: 0%

"You never should've betrayed us", Mason said. "You claimed us weak, but we just took you down. What does that make you?"

Each of the rogues' Bakugan glowed their Attribute color, going to ball form and returning to their battlers.

"It makes us… wrong", Gill said. "I surrender."

"As do I", Nurzak agreed.

"You're insane!", Kazarina shouted. "Both of you!"

"Look, it's not like you have much choice", Sid pointed out.

Lena fished out a communicator, quickly hailing the Vestal Destroyer. "Mira, do it!"

Each of the Twelve Orders began to fade, being forcibly transported.

"No. No!", Stoica raged.

Airzel, however, reached out to Barodius and sent a message. "Emperor Barodius, the Twelve Orders have been captured! Do not attempt a rescue operation!"

He might've continued, but he disappeared, being transported onto the Destroyer's dungeon alongside the rest of his allies.

That left Mason and his team to celebrate their successful retribution.

XXX

Barodius was standing atop Dharak's head, battling Mechanical Bakugan when he received Airzel's desperate message. It would be a gross understatement to say he was disappointed by it.

"Dharak, clear a path to the fleet!", Barodius commanded. "Thunder Prove!"

Dharak's body began to flow a faint purple aura, power rising a bit. Bolts of dark energy sparked in every direction, each one connecting with and destroying a machine opponent. Dharak eventually blasted a straight bolt, which tore through an entire squad on its own.

"I want a full party on each warship, now!", Barodius snapped to his forces. Dharak began flying through the gap, granting Barodius access to his ship.

Within a minute, each shop was fully attended, captained by juniors officers in the Twelve Orders' places.

"I want immediate departure", Barodius ordered.

Responding to his command, the six ships lifted to the air, beginning a jump to Neathia.

"Barodius, what are you doing?", Dharak asked. "Gundalia is under attack! Your senior officers are out of commission! This is the worst time to split up our forces and attack Neathia!"

"I'll see Neathia burn for this embarrassment", Barodius swore. "They don't have the power to hold Gundalia. The battle was just a distraction to take my right hands and cripple me! I will grind their precious city into dust!"

"We can't have a Gundalian empire without Gundalia as it's center!", Dharak protested.

"Then let it all burn."

XXX

And that's it! I hope you enjoyed. If you did, be sure to follow or favorite the story. If you want to say anything, feel free to leave a review or PM me. Before I go, responses:

Alice Gehabich: Well, you'll see soon.

David: First off, I won't put this in Spanish, because I don't know it. Second, you're right. I'm doing my best to give everyone some spotlight. Sorry if Alice seems a bit stale.

Until next time, goodbye!