This story was done in collaboration between me and Jriddle41 (Sodormatchmaker on DeviantART), and we both own the OCs that are used in the story. Credit to author AaronCottrell97 for a few ideas and character suggestions (especially the duel layout for the story). Everything else belongs to their respective owners:

Thomas and Friends (c) Hit Entertainment and Mattel

The Railway Series (c) Rev Wilbert Awdry

Yu-Gi-Oh! (c) Konami

Song used in Intro and Outro (c) Unknown

WARNING: Once more, this story is rated entirely M for bloody violence, depictions of gore, sexual content (including a moment of language being used in context to sex), and some nudity. Reader discretion is strongly advised.


Opening up within a hallway somewhere in Boxford Corporation HQ, James was in the middle of a rematch with Commander Sledge. So far, the odds were not very hot:
-Commander Sledge (LP: 1700) controlled 'XX-Saber Gottoms' (Level: 9/ATK: 3100), 'XX-Saber Hyunlei' (Level: 6/ATK: 2300), 'XX-Saber Gardestrike' (Level: 5/ATK: 2100), and 'X-Saber Souza' (Level: 7/ATK: 2500).
-James (LP: 6000) controlled no monsters, having lost 'Elemental HERO Steam Healer' from an attack by 'XX-Saber Gottoms'

"James has no monsters to guard his Life Points." Edward was saying.

"Once James eats three direct attacks by Sledge's remaining monsters-" added Rebecca. "-he'll lose."

"James..." whispered Molly, hoping that her red-haired boyfriend can survive somehow.

Back in the duel field...

"This match was fun, but Sledge is about to win big!" boasted Commander Sledge. He then gave the command to another of his monsters... "'X-Saber Souza' will attack you directly!"

'X-Saber Souza' lunged forward, slashing at James. James stumbled back some as his Life Points dropped once more (LP: 6000 - 3500).

"That's one!" jeered Commander Sledge. "Next to attack will be 'XX-Saber Hyunlei'!"

'XX-Saber Hyunlei' slashed at James next (LP: 3500 - 1200).

"James's Life Points won't last the last attack!" cried Duck.

"And now, Sledge's finishing attack!" laughed Commander Sledge, giving the command to his remaining monster. "'XX-Saber Gardestrike', take the punk down for good!"

'XX-Saber Gardestrike' obeyed, slashing at James.


Title: James vs. Sledge, Part 2: The Nebula-Born HERO


A few seconds ago...

"And now, Sledge's finishing attack!" laughed Commander Sledge, giving the command to his remaining monster. "'XX-Saber Gardestrike', take the punk down for good!"

'XX-Saber Gardestrike' obeyed, slashing at James.

"Sledge wins!"

"I'm not out yet." interrupted James.

"What?" gasped Commander Sledge.

James allowed a card to eject from his Graveyard. "I activate the effect of the 'Explosive Wall' in my Graveyard!" he announced. "If this card is in my Graveyard when an opponent's monster declares an attack, I can remove it from play in order to Banish the attacking monster and all other cards I control."

A large explosion erupted over the field, causing 'XX-Saber Gardestrike' to explode as well. Since James had no other cards on his field, nothing else was taken away from him.

"He's safe..." sighed Nia.

"Sledge is not done!" cut in Commander Sledge. And so, he demonstrated an effect belonging to one of his monsters... "Sledge activates the effect of 'XX-Saber Gottoms'! Sledge can tribute one 'X-Saber' Monster he controls to make the opponent discard one random card from his or her hand."

'XX-Saber Hyunlei' faded away in a blue streak.

"By sacrificing 'Saber Hyunlei', one random card in your hand is discarded!"

Reluctantly, James discarded one card ('Elemental HERO Neos') from his hand. Finally, Commander Sledge took and slotted his last card into his Duel Disk, causing a facedown card to materialize on the field.

"Sledge will finally set one card and end his turn." The burly pirate commander finished.

"Ngh..." James grimaced. In his mind... "Look at what I have to face... three powerful Synchro Monsters. Not to mention I lost 'Steam Healer' and was forced to discard 'Neos'... What can I do to even the odds?"

He drew a card, hoping it would help him.


Turn Four: James Hughes (LP: 1200)
Deck: 50
Current Hand (2): "Neo Space Connector" and "Magical Sky Mirror"


"Huh?" gasped James, seeing as he drew a Spell Card called 'Magical Sky Mirror'. "Well, this is a new one." He started to read what the card did... "'Target one Normal Spell Card in your opponent's Graveyard that was activated during your opponent's previous turn; as this effect resolution, follow the target's card text as if you had used it yourself'." The red-haired boy's eyes brightened. "You know, this could actually be really helpful."

With that thought on hand, James slotted the new card into a Spell/Trap slot on his Duel Disk.

"Alright, Sledge, I'll activate the Spell Card 'Magical Sky Mirror'!" As the red-haired boy spoke, the mentioned Spell Card flipped face-up and revealed itself. "It lets me target one Normal Spell Card in the opponent's, that being you, Graveyard that was activated during my opponent's, again you, previous turn; as this effect resolution, follow the target's card text as if I had used it myself."

"Say what!?" cringed Commander Sledge, watching as a card ejected from his Graveyard. "Not that one!"

"I activate YOUR 'Card of Demise'!" declared James, drawing four cards and adding them into his one card hand. "Now I draw until I hold five cards."

Commander Sledge did not look all that thrilled. James's new hand contained 'Neo Space Connector', 'Neos Fusion', 'Damage Off Zone', 'Neo-Spacian Grand Mole', and 'Cocoon Rebirth'. With a strategy formed, James took the card from the far left.

"Now, from my hand, I'll Summon 'Neo Space Connector' in attack mode!" he went on.

Appearing onto the field was a monster dressed in a similar attire as 'Elemental HERO Neos' (Level: 4/ATK: 800/DEF: 1800).

"'Neo Space Connector'?" grunted Commander Sledge. "That's support for those 'Neo-Spacians'!"

"Got that right, pal!" confirmed James, taking a card from his Deck. "When this monster is Normal Summoned, I can Special Summon one 'Neo-Spacian' Monster or one 'Elemental HERO Neos' from my hand or Deck in defense mode."

On cue, 'Neo-Spacian Dark Panther' appeared on the field (Level: 3/ATK: 1000/DEF: 500).

"Using the effect of 'Neo Space Connector', I'll Special Summon 'Dark Panther'—but it isn't the only monster that will be on the field. The red-haired boy went on, just as 'Neo Space Connector' started glowing. "I'll sacrifice 'Neo Space Connector' to activate his next effect! I can sacrifice this monster, then target one 'Neo-Spacian' Monster or one 'Elemental HERO Neos' in my Graveyard and Special Summon it in defense mode. Come forth - 'Neos'!"

The glowing 'Neo Space Connector' stopped, what else, glowing. Standing on the field was now 'Elemental HERO Neos' (Level: 7/ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000).

"No fair!" whined Commander Sledge. "That's too broken of a card!"

"Oh, grow up." James snorted, although he was amused by his opponent's immaturity. He then took and held a card out. "Spell Card - 'Neos Fusion'! It lets me Special Summon one Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck that lists exactly two monsters as material, including 'Elemental HERO Neos', by sending those monsters from my hand, Deck, or field, ignoring its Summoning conditions. But for the rest of this turn, I can't Special Summon anymore monsters."

As expected, both 'Elemental HERO Neos' and 'Neo-Spacian Dark Panther' leaped into the sky to Contact Fuse together.

"Ready?" grinned James, before bringing both hands together. "Contact Fusion! Show yourself - 'Elemental HERO Brave Neos'!"

Appearing onto the field was 'Elemental HERO Neos' in a more advanced-looking suit (Level: 7/ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000).

"'Brave Neos'?" pondered Emily.

"'Brave Neos' is the perfect start for my counterattack." James was saying to Commander Sledge. "Let's start with his effect; 'Brave Neos' gains 100 Attack Points for each 'HERO' Monster and 'Neo-Spacian' Monster in my Graveyard."

Five cards ejected from James's Graveyard, before floating around him for a few seconds.

"With five such cards, that gives him an additional 500 Attack Points points!"

'Elemental HERO Brave Neos' grew stronger (ATK: 2500 - 3000). The Battle Phase then came...

"Let's do it, 'Brave Neos'!" announced James. "Attack 'X-Saber Souza'!"

'Elemental HERO Brave Neos' obeyed, diving forward and punching 'X-Saber Souza' in the face. The enemy monster exploded, with the force of the attack attempting to push Commander Sledge back a bit.

"'X-Saber Souza' has been destroyed!" declared James.

Commander Sledge seethed a bit as his Life Points took a hit (LP: 1700 - 1200). Just as quickly, however, he smirked right back.

"Too bad. Sledge has a way to reverse the damage you've inflicted." The burly pirate commander remarked, before pointing to his set card. "Facedown card, activate - 'Saber Reflection'!"

The facedown card flipped up and revealed itself.

"When Sledge takes Battle or Effect Damage while he controls an 'X-Saber' Monster, Sledge gains Life Points equal to the damage he took, and then, if Sledge does this, inflict the same amount of damage to the opponent, and then Sledge can add one 'Saber' Spell or Trap Card or 'Gottoms' card from his Deck into his hand."

James didn't like the sound of that.

"James will take 500 points of damage-" Edward was saying to the others. "-and Sledge will regain 500 Life Points."

The face-up 'Saber Reflection' Spell Card hit James with a blast (LP: 1200 - 700), while Commander Sledge's Life Points instead increased (LP: 1200 - 1700).

"So you've attacked for nothing!" Commander Sledge laughed, before a card started sticking out of his Deck. "Now Sledge can add a 'Saber' Spell or Trap Card or 'Gottoms' card from his Deck into his hand.

The card chosen was a Spell Card called 'Saber Slash'. James, meanwhile, wasn't done with his turn...

"Now it's my turn!" The red-haired boy announced, aiming to use his monster's next effect. "When 'Elemental HERO Brave Neos' destroys an opponent's monster by battle, I can add one Spell or Trap Card from my Deck into my hand that specifically lists the card 'Elemental HERO Neos' in its text."

A card slipped from James's Deck into his hand; it was the 'Neo Space' Spell Card. Almost immediately, James held it out.

"I activate the Field Spell 'Neo Space'!" he went on. "Watch what will happen to the field!"

The scenery changed again. This time into the very colorful atmosphere of 'Neo Space'.

"'Neo Space'?!" scowled Commander Sledge. "Tch! It's far too colorful for Sledge's liking!"

"Thanks to this-" explained James, knowing that the advantage was his again. "-any and all 'Neos' Fusion Monsters and 'Elemental HERO Neos' receive a bonus of 500 Attack Points."

'Elemental HERO Brave Neos' grew stronger (ATK: 3000 - 3500).

"The best part of my card? It also prevents all 'Neos' Fusion Monsters from returning to the Extra Deck at the End Phase due to their own effects. In other words, 'Brave Neos' remains on the field after my turn ends."

"That means he'll be able to make another comeback attack next turn." rejoiced Gordon.

"So long as that pirate doesn't try anything funny on his own turn." put in Oliver.

"Quite right." agreed James, before taking and slotting another card into his Duel Disk. "I activate a Continuous Spell - 'Damage Off Zone'! It halves all Battle Damage inflicted to either player's Life Points. My turn has come to an end!"

"Finally!" grunted Commander Sledge, drawing a card. "Now Sledge can kick your ass!"


Turn Five: Commander Sledge (LP: 1700)
Deck: 48
Current Hand (3): "XX-Saber Ragigura", "Saber Slash", and "Saber Vault"
Card of Demise: 4 Standby Phases


His drawn card was a Spell Card called 'Saber Vault'.

"Sledge will save this for later." The burly pirate commander thought to himself, adding the card into his hand and choosing another one. "Sledge Summons 'XX-Saber Ragigura'!"

Appearing onto the field as a green lizard dressed as a warrior (Level: 1/ATK: 200/DEF: 1000).

"'Ragigura's' effect; when this monster is Normal Summoned or Special Summoned, Sledge can add 1 'X-Saber' Monster from his Graveyard into his hand."

A card ('XX-Saber Faultroll') ejected from Commander Sledge's Graveyard, and he added the card into his hand.

"And guess what?" continued Commander Sledge. "Since Sledge controls two or more 'X-Saber' Monsters, this monster can be Special Summoned from the hand." He took and held his card out. "Return to the field - 'XX-Saber Faultroll'!"

Within seconds, the black and red armored warrior reappeared on the field (Level: 6/ATK: 2400/DEF: 1800).

"Next, Sledge will activate 'Faultroll's' second effect - letting Sledge Special Summon a Level 4 or lower 'X-Saber' Monster from his Graveyard once per turn." As Commander Sledge spoke, the 'X-Saber Airbellum' Monster Card materialized face-up on the field. "Tuner Monster - 'X-Saber Airbellum'!"

The humanoid lion monster with wolverine-like claws was next to return to the field (Level: 3/ATK: 1600/DEF: 200).

"Sledge is Tuning his Level 6 Effect Monster, 'XX-Saber Faultroll', with the Level 3 Tuner Monster, 'X-Saber Airbellum'!" Commander Sledge went on. "Sledge Synchro Summons a second copy of 'XX-Saber Gottoms'!"

When the (rather short) Synchro Summon sequence ended, a second 'XX-Saber Gottoms' appeared from the beam of light.

"Two of those things?!" freaked out James.

The rest of the audience was equally shocked by the play by Commander Sledge.

"Gwa ha ha ha ha!" The burly pirate commander laughed. "Sledge is going to be the winner, this time! Once he gets the chance to attack, he will be the winner!"

"Not this turn!" interrupted James, just as his face-up 'Damage Off Zone' Spell Card faded away in a blue streak and he took a Life Point hit (LP: 700 - 350). "I remove 'Damage Off Zone' from my field and pay half of my Life Points to make all Battle Damage I take this turn become zero!"

"Pfft! That's not going to stop Sledge from attacking!" When Commander Sledge spoke, he held another card out. "Sledge activates 'Saber Slash'!"

With the audience...

"That's bad—bad for James, that is." frowned Edward.

"We're taking it you know what that card does?" figured Mavis.

"I do; it lets Sledge destroy a number of face-up cards on the field equal to the number of face-up attack position 'X-Saber' Monsters he controls."

"That will leave James without a defense for next turn!" Molly gasped.

"While he won't be dealing any damage this turn, he's going to make sure he can get at James's Life Points anyway he can!" added Henry.

Back in the duel field...

"As Sledge controls two 'X-Saber' Monsters-" explained Commander Sledge. "-he can destroy TWO of your face-up cards!" He pointed forth. "'Neo Space' and 'Elemental HERO Brave Neos'!"

"Hold on a sec!" cut in James, as a card ejected from his Graveyard. "If one or more Fusion Monsters I control that lists 'Elemental HERO Neos' as material would be destroyed by battle or Card Effect, or shuffled into the Extra Deck by its own effect, I can remove 'Neos Fusion' from my Graveyard instead to protect my monster(s)!"

Before 'Elemental HERO Brave Neos' could be destroyed, he started glowing all gold, which allowed him to survive Commander Sledge's' Spell Card. Unfortunately, the same couldn't be said for the face-up 'Neo Space' Spell Card, which shattered into shards of glass. The card's destruction resulted in 'Elemental HERO Brave Neos' losing his power bonus (ATK: 3500 - 3000).

"Finally-" Commander Sledge held out one more card. "-Sledge activates a Field Spell of his own - 'Saber Vault'!"

The scenery began to change once again. This time, it turned into a temple-like vault with a huge sword in between several large columns.

"'Saber Vault'?" blinked James, but did not say anything more.

Commander Sledge smirked. "Each face-up 'X-Saber' monster on the field gains 100 Attack Points times its Level, and loses 100 Defense Points times its Level."

The remaining 'X-Saber' Monsters on the field had the following Levels:
-'XX-Saber Gottoms': 9
-'XX-Saber Gottoms': 9
-'XX-Saber Ragigura': 1

"Both 'Gottoms' gain 900 Attack Points and lose 900 Defense Points." realized James. "While 'Ragigura' gains 100 Attack Points and loses 100 Defense Points!"

That's right... The two 'XX-Saber Gottoms' grew stronger (ATK: 3100 - 4000/DEF: 2600 - 1700) x2, as did even 'XX-Saber Ragigura' (ATK: 200 - 300/DEF: 1000 - 900).

"BATTLE!" boomed Commander Sledge, entering the Battle Phase. "Sledge uses the first copy of 'XX-Saber Gottoms' to attack 'Brave Neos'!"

The first 'XX-Saber Gottoms' obeyed, slashing at 'Elemental HERO Brave Neos.

"Thanks to the effect of 'Damage Off Zone', the Battle Damage is reduced to zero!" declared James (LP: 350). "I'm still in the game!"

"But, your monster is still destroyed!" reminded Commander Sledge, just as 'Elemental HERO Brave Neos' was hit and destroyed by the first copy of 'XX-Saber Gottoms'. "As a result, you've banished your 'Neos Fusion' card all for nothing!"

James scowled. "Ngh..."

With the audience...

"James has nothing left to stop Sledge from attacking on his next turn." groaned Mavis.

Unfortunately, it was about to get even worse...

"Sledge activates the effect of the first 'XX-Saber Gottoms'!" The voice of Sledge announced.

"What?!" gasped Thomas.

Back in the duel field...

"In case you've forgotten, Sledge will explain his monster's effect once more." Commander Sledge offered. "He can tribute one 'X-Saber' Monster to make the opponent discard one random card from his or her hand."

James REALLY did not like this.

"I'll use the effect twice!" continued Commander Sledge, as the second copy of 'XX-Saber Gottoms' and even 'XX-Saber Ragigura' both faded away in streaks of blue. "Now both of your cards are discarded!"

"Dammit!" cursed James, discarding the remains of his hand.

"Now you truly are all out of options!" Commander Sledge went on, laughing at his opponent. "You will be completely and utterly crushed by the Mighty Sledge of Awesomeness...next turn!"

With the audience...

"Mighty Sledge of Awesomeness?" deadpanned Toby; there was an anime style sweatdrop on the side of his head.

"Talk about being overconfident." added Mavis.

"James..." worried Molly.

(elsewhere...)

In another part of the building, some pirates were busy patrolling around for any sign of Commander Laura, having been informed by Hurricane to search for her (despite Frankie insisting on letting the female pirate commander find her). Meanwhile, Commander Laura peeked from behind a corner, finding a clear spot to sneak through.

"Nice try, 'captain', but I'm far smarter than you believe me to be." she thought to herself, moving forth. "I'll reach you before any of you realize it!"

Were those your final words, Professor Laura? Because they sure sound like they were final words to me.

(elsewhere...)

Back in the hallway Commander Sledge was occupying...

"Sledge is so excited!" The burly pirate commander bragged. "He's going to win and get his revenge!" He entered the End Phase. "Sledge's turn is over!"

James scowled. This was his last chance to win the duel, but he had no cards in his hand, and his field was completely empty. What was he going to do now?

"Damn! This is really bad..." James thought to himself. "Sledge really has me in a bind, and I only have one more turn before he finishes me off. No matter, I'll continue dueling until my last Life Point is wiped out." He looked at his opponent. "The duel isn't over until the last card is played!"

Commander Sledge scoffed in response. With that said, James drew his card, performing the ever handy Destiny Draw.


Turn Six: James Hughes (LP: 350)
Deck: 43
Current Hand (1): "NEXT"
Card of Demise: 4 Standby Phases


His drawn card was a Trap Card called 'NEXT'.

"A Trap Card?!" gasped James, worried at first. After taking a moment to read what the card did, the sense of worry was replaced with triumph. "Hey, this could work!"

"Huh?" quizzed Commander Sledge.

And so, the final turn began...

"I activate a Trap Card, 'NEXT', from my hand!" began James, holding his drawn card out. "This lets me Special Summon any number of monsters with different names from my hand and/or Graveyard, in defense position, that are all 'Neo-Spacian' Monsters or 'Elemental HERO Neos', but their effects are negated, and as long as I control any of those Special Summoned monsters face-up, I can't Special Summon monsters from the Extra Deck, except Fusion Monsters."

"But since it IS a Trap Card-" objected Commander Sledge. "-you're unable to activate it now!"

"But since I control no other cards, I can activate this card directly from my hand immediately."

Commander Sledge cringed, "What?!" he stuttered. "Directly from hand immediately?"

"A 'Hand Trap'!" realized Thomas. "It could be just what James needs!"

"And so-" continued James, as three cards ejected from his Graveyard. "-I'll Special Summon 'Neos', 'Dark Panther', and 'Grand Mole' from the Graveyard!"

The three mentioned monsters briefly appeared on the field.

"Blegh! You're trying to fight Sledge with those three monsters?!" grumbled Commander Sledge in disgust. "How pathetic!"

"Guess again." cut in James, before giving the command to his three monsters... "Go forth, my three monsters!"

'Elemental HERO Neos', 'Neo-Spacian' Dark Panther', and 'Neo-Spacian Grand Mole' each jumped into the sky for a Contact Fusion. Not only that, James started speaking in a Summon Chant...

"Hero of the Stars, curve the wills of darkness with the firm hand of the earth, and rain down against your foes!" chanted James, soon bringing both hands together. "CONTACT FUSION! Descent, Level 9! Ruler of the Cosmos - 'Elemental HERO Nebula Neos'!"

Emerging from the sky (or ceiling) was a brand new form of 'Elemental HERO Neos'. This one wore armor with a mixed of black and gold colors with metallic-looking wings, drills on one hand, and a gauntlet of dark energy on the other (Level: 9/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500).

"'Elemental HERO'..." began Thomas.

"...'Nebula Neos'?" finished Emily.

"A space-themed 'Neos', too." commented Gordon with approval in his tone.

Back in the duel field...

"'Nebula Neos', eh?" huffed Commander Sledge. "Rather powerful Sledge admits, but it doesn't match the power of his own monster!"

"You might want to listen up." said James. "First off, I'll activate my new monster's effect. If this monster is Special Summoned from the Extra Deck, I draw cards equal to the number of cards my opponent controls."

"Sounds pointless to Sledge, but go ahead. Sledge controls two cards, so you draw two cards."

James drew two more cards from his Deck. To his surprise, the drawn cards were 'Double Hero Attack' (Spell Card) and 'Neo Space Pathfinder' (Monster Card). From there...

"I continue the effect of 'Nebula Neos'!" continued James. "I target one card face-up on the field and negate its effects until the end of the turn! In this case, the card to be negated will be 'Saber Vault'!"

"NO!" screamed Commander Sledge.

He watched helplessly as 'XX-Saber Gottoms' grew weaker (ATK: 4000 - 3100/DEF: 1700 - 2600). Even then, the advantage was still his at the moment.

"It... it still won't be enough!" The burly pirate commander insisted.

"I'm not finished." reminded James, before sending one of the new cards in his hand to the Graveyard and allowing another to eject. "I can discard 'Neo Space Pathfinger' from my hand in order to add one copy of 'Neo Space' from either my Deck or Graveyard into my hand."

The familiar 'Neo Space' Spell Card materialized face-up on the field.

"Now, I'll activate it once more. Say goodbye to 'Saber Vault'!"

The face-up 'Saber Vault' Spell Card shattered into shards of glass, just as the colorful space-like area returned.

"Impossible!" wailed Commander Sledge.

'Elemental HERO Nebula Neos' grew stronger once more (ATK: 3000 - 3500). With his monster now stronger, James was ready to take advantage of it...

"Let's do it, 'Nebula Neos'!" he declared. "I use you to attack 'XX-Saber Gottoms'!"

'Elemental HERO Nebula Neos' jumped high into the sky, aiming himself towards 'XX-Saber Gottoms'.

"NEBULA'S WRATH!"

'Elemental HERO Nebula Neos' fired a dark energy beam at 'XX-Saber Gottoms' while also striking the monster with its drills. 'XX-Saber Gottoms' was unable to withstand the powerful attack and ended up exploding. Commander Sledge managed to withstand the force of the attack, but some of his Life Points were still removed (LP: 1700 - 1300). When the attack ended, the burly pirate commander became pleased.

"That did no good!" he laughed. "While your monster will remain on the field, Sledge will still have another chance to finish you off!"

"Oh really?" James asked in fake surprise. "Well, gee... I guess I have no way to change that." Suddenly, his grin reappeared. "Oh, wait a minute. Yes, I do!" He held his final card out. I activate a Quick-Play Spell - 'Double Hero Attack'!"

Commander Sledge recoiled in absolute horror.

"If I control a Fusion Monster that lists 'Elemental HERO Neos' as material, I can target one 'HERO' Fusion Monster in my Graveyard and Special Summon it, ignoring its Summoning conditions!"

Almost immediately, 'Elemental HERO Brave Neos' reappeared on the field (Level: 7/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2000).

"And my Battle Phase is still on." continued James. "I can use 'Brave Neos' to attack you directly!"

"NO! I REFUSE TO LOSE TO YOU AGAIN!" screamed Commander Sledge, surprisingly not referring to himself in the third person.

"Like it or not-" James pointed out. "-it's game over!" He gave the command... "'Brave Neos', direct attack!"

'Elemental HERO Brave Neos' obeyed, diving in and punching Commander Sledge right in the face! The burly pirate commander was thrown across the hallway into the wall, destroying it a bit as his remaining Life Points went down the drain (LP: 1200 - 0).


DUEL RESULTS: James Hughes wins!


"And that's game!" winked James, before turning and shooting his friends a thumbs up.

"Wonderful dueling, James!" praised Gordon.

"Way to show that brute!" added Molly.

Unfortunately, the triumphant atmosphere came to a quick end when the Bio-Bands on James's wrist and Commander Sledge's wrist chose to activate.

"Not again..." whispered James, which was all he could say.

With that said, the red-haired boy let out a cry of anguish as a great amount of his energy was sapped from his soul.

"NO!" Molly and the likes called out, scared.

"This is going too far." mused Nia. "First Rosie, then Percy, and now James!"

"At least that's another pirate out of our way." Mavis pointed out.

James collapsed to his knees. "Too much energy...lost." He looked towards Thomas with regret. "Sorry, Thomas, but I can't risk dueling again without losing the rest of my energy! Go on without me!"

Before anyone else could say anything...

"Hey... Do you guys hear something?" pondered Duck.

"I do hear something." confirmed Toby. "But aren't we inside a building?"

Getting an idea, Thomas approached the nearby door and opened it, which lead into a boardroom.

"In here!" he suggested.

Nodding, Emily first approached the unconscious Commander Sledge and took the Keycard from him. She was the first to enter the nearby boardroom. Without wasting a second, the rest of the party followed their friends into the boardroom.

(elsewhere...)

Within the boardroom, the group saw something outside that really surprised them.

"'Blue-Eyes White Dragon'?!" gasped Rebecca.

Out the window was what appeared to be 'Blue-Eyes White Dragon'. Thomas rubbed his eyes, and saw that it was not the real dragon itself, but rather...

"That's the Blue-Eyes White Jet!" cried Toby. "Then, that must mean-!"

(elsewhere...)

Outside Boxford Corp, the Blue-Eyes White Jet was trying to find a place to land.

(inside...)

Inside the jet, Spencer was the main pilot of the aircraft.

"Alright, Frankie Clarkle, let's settle this!" The young man thought to himself. "I won't let you nor your crew stop me from saving Skiff and regaining ownership of the company!"

(elsewhere...)

Standing on a helipad on one of the highest levels of the whole building, gazing at the Blue-Eyes White Jet, was Commander Leon. On his face was a very dangerous-looking smile.

"Welcome back, Spencer Gresley." The former pirate second-in-command said to himself. "We meet again...for the last time." He drew a card from the top of his Deck and held it up. "I won't let you stop our new captain!"

Appearing on scene was a dragon-looking Machine monster called 'Constellar Ptolemy M7'.

"Shoot that jet out of the sky!"

The monster obeyed, firing a blast at the Blue-Eyes White Jet.

"Spencer!" The voice of Mrs. Gresley (Boxford) warned.

The jet hovered out of the way just in time to avoid the enemy's attack. Back on the helipad, Commander Leon laughed evilly.

"Again!" he commanded, showing eagerness to destroy the jet and kill whoever was inside it. "Don't stop!"

Another blast was fired by 'Constellar Ptolemy M7', but again and again, the Blue-Eyes White Jet avoided them.

(inside...)

Inside the cockpit...

"That dragon's keeping us from landing the jet." figured Mr. Gresley (Boxford).

"Heh!" scowled Spencer, deciding to fight back.

(outside...)

Outside, the cockpit seemed to open up, and Spencer jumped out.

"So, this is the building's guard dragon?" The silver-haired young man frowned, before raising his voice. "You dare to sully this company's reputation with that fake dragon, Frankie?!" He drew a card and held it out. "THIS is the building's TRUE guard dragon! Come forth - 'Blue-Eyes White Dragon'!"

In a burst of light, the mighty 'Blue-Eyes White Dragon' appeared in the sky with a loud roar.

"BURST STREAM OF DESTRUCTION!" Spencer commanded.

'Blue-Eyes White Dragon' obeyed, charging and firing off a blast of whitish electricity, while 'Constellar Ptolemy M7' responded by charging and firing off another blast of its own. The two attacks collided and caused a massive explosion.

(elsewhere...)

Inside the boardroom, Thomas and the likes were all watching in amazement.

"Whoa..." admired Gordon.

"So, Spencer and his parents flew all the way here from America?" wondered Edward.

"It would seem so." figured Henry. "I say we get up there as fast as we can."

"Agreed." nodded Emily. "We'll need Spencer's help if we want to take Frankie down."

"There's a sliiiiight problem." interrupted James, managing to get some of his strength back (but not enough to start dueling again). He was looking at the Keycard. "Wherever Spencer's landing, this Keycard won't get us to that level."

"That means we have to keep going farther up the building." said Toby. "Chances are we'll have to duel a pirate in order to get the Keycard leading to where Spencer is."

And it was agreed to keep going after the pirates.

(elsewhere...)

When the lightshow ended, only 'Blue-Eyes White Dragon' was left standing. The legendary dragon let out a triumphant roar before fading away. On the helipad, the Blue-Eyes White Jet started to land. Commander Leon, meanwhile, just watched with a bored expression on his face. When the jet finally stopped, Spencer was the first to jump out. He narrowed his eyes dangerously when he saw Commander Leon.

"As I expected." commented Spencer. "You're Sailor John's old second-in-command, Leon, if I'm not mistaken."

"The one and only." Commander Leon confirmed, grinning deviously. "I hope you haven't missed us too badly, Spencer Gresley. After all, we haven't forgotten you."

"Like a bad rash." The silver-haired young man grunted. He then pointed at his enemy. "Now, if you would be so kind, I want you and your cronies out of this building and out of my life!"

"Such harsh language!" huffed Commander Leon, sounding like he was hurt or something (which he was obviously not). "What did we ever do to deserve such hatred from someone as famous as you?"

"It's a long list, and at the moment I'm short on patience. You and your band of psychos tried to steal my family's company and hurt other people in your mad quest for power, once upon a time. Now, it would seem you're trying your luck at it again. Why can't you fools learn from your mistakes, and accept that bad guys never win?"

"You're the one to actually talk." The former pirate second-in-command pointed out. "Besides, wouldn't you like to hear how I survived being in prison so well? It's a great story, and-"

"Not interested." retorted Spencer, coldly. "But, if I were to guess how you survived, I would suppose it's because you had your two friends in Laura and Sledge to keep you company."

"That's part of the reason." said Commander Leon. "But there's also Diesel 10."

Spencer raised an eyebrow. "Diesel 10? Who's he?"

"A new friend we made while in prison." explained Commander Leon. "He's said to have once tried to take over one of the high schools on this silly Island. He is also a personal enemy of Thomas Billinton. You know, your main rival."

A flashback ensued.


FLASHBACK

Inside the prison at a later time, a parade was going on (if you would call it one)... Over with the three former pirate commanders…

"Sledge wondering what the new prisoners will be like." Flashback Commander Sledge grunted, before grinning. "Hopefully some so he could bash some skulls in."

"Not unless you want to end up in confinement like I was." frowned Flashback Commander Laura.

As the three former pirate commanders watched as the parade of new prisoners walked by, one of them (one with ochre-colored hair and a black prison jumpsuit) noticed the trio and smiled to himself. That wasn't lost with them, however.

"Who was that guy?" asked Flashback Commander Leon. "Why did he smile at us?"

"Sledge not sure, but he creeps Sledge out." snorted Flashback Commander Sledge.

Same here...

(elsewhere...)

During lunch in the cafeteria, the three pirate commanders were eating lunch at their usual table.

"Finally, Sledge and allies get something different!" sighed Flashback Commander Sledge. "Wild Turkey Surprise and buttered toast!"

"Yippee for you." said Flashback Commander Laura sarcastically.

Before long, one of the new prisoners (the one who smiled at them earlier on) showed up with a tray of food of his own.

"Hey, mind if I join you three?" he asked hopefully.

"Knock yourself out." Flashback Commander Leon answered, not looking up from his meal.

The ochre-haired man sat down, and the four inmates began to chat...

"I'm Alexander Swindon, but I'm more known as Diesel 10." The new prisoner began. "Who are you guys?"

"My name is Leon." Flashback Commander Leon introduced himself.

"Sledge's name is Sledge!" put in Flashback Commander Sledge.

"My name is Laura, I'm a former college professor." finished Flashback Commander Laura. "We three used to be pirates under the command of the late John Clarke - better known as Sailor John."

"Pirates, you say?" quizzed Flashback Diesel 10, before scoffing. "Pirates don't exist, you know."

"Well, these pirates did exist!" frowned Flashback Commander Sledge. "Sledge and crew would have made this world ours and change it for the better, had it not been for brats interfering!"

"Brats?"

"A group of kids stopped our plans." growled Flashback Commander Leon. "Soon before our group was disbanded, we heard our captain got defeated in a duel, and, soon after, was killed."

"The one kid we hate the most is the one who defeated our captain in a duel." put in Flashback Commander Laura, as her right eye bulged with anger and insanity. "The infamous Thomas Billinton. Not only that, but our former second-in-command also betrayed us." Her tone dropped. "Thomas... How much I hate him for not only getting out group disbanded, but also for defeating and rejecting me!"

Flashback Diesel 10 was surprised; Thomas Billinton was the same punk who got him put behind bars, and he hated that boy every since then. With Thomas stopping him once again, Flashback Diesel 10's hatred for the blue-haired boy increased. Of course, Thomas also defeated Sailor John, and the pirate captain was then found dead shortly after... This gave Flashback Diesel 10 a devious idea...

"Well, maybe Thomas was the one who killed him?" he suggested.

Flashback Commander Laura, Flashback Commander Sledge, and Flashback Commander Leon each looked at their new 'companion'.

"That's right; Thomas might have been the one who did the deed." Flashback Diesel 10 went on. "Defeating him in a duel may not have been enough, and so, with help from your former second-in-command, decided to just murder him."

The three former pirate commanders listened on, before finally realizing the truth to the whole thing.

"Of course..." mused Flashback Commander Leon. "It all makes sense!"

"Yeah!" agreed Flashback Commander Sledge. "When captain get defeated by blue-haired boy, he then disappeared and was later found to be dead."

"It was Thomas!" snarled Flashback Commander Laura. "He, with help from Skiff, was the one who murdered our captain!"

"I share a personal grudge with you three; the same type." said Flashback Diesel 10. "I, too, fought with him, but got defeated." He then had a few personal flashbacks inside his head. "He ruined my plans to become principal of his school."

"So, it seems we all share a common foe." frowned Flashback Commander Leon. "How intriguing."

"Yes, indeed." agreed Flashback Commander Laura. "But what are we gonna do about it? How do we get our revenge on Thomas?"

Nobody else said a word; they simply resumed eating (but with a ton on their minds).

END FLASHBACK


The flashback came to an end.

"All because of that runt-" Commander Leon ranted on. "-we lost everything we worked hard to obtain, and our captain was killed! When Diesel 10 told us that Thomas killed him, that gave us motivation to get revenge."

"You hyenas 'deserved' to get thrown in jail!" snapped Spencer. "And how dare you accuse Billinton of a crime he didn't commit! He may have hated Sailor John for the terrible things he did, but he's not a murderer!" His tone then became even more fierce. "Now, get out of my way! I don't have the time to deal with a nobody like you!"

"Well, too bad, so sad." retorted Commander Leon, taking a Keycard out of his pocket for a couple of seconds. "You want to get inside? You'll have to defeat me and earn the Keycard I have on me."

"Keycard?" asked Mr. Gresley (Boxford).

"Captain Frankie is now in charge of this here building, and she made a few changes to it while you guys were away in America. Now, if you wish to go after Captain Frankie, you will need to get through her pirate army first!"

"That's fine by me." Spencer agreed to the terms, activating his Duel Disk in the process. "I'll just beat you up here so we can be on our way!"

"Oh, I think you'll find me to be more difficult to beat than from before!" grinned Commander Leon, activating his own Duel Disk. "To be honest, 'Exodia' Decks are too pathetically easy to beat! This new Deck, provided to me by our new captain, will be much harder to take out."

"I don't care what kind of Deck you're running, I'll win just as I did last time!"

Before long, the next big rematch commenced...

"DUEL!" Spencer and Commander Leon both exclaimed at once (LP: 4000) x2.

Can Spencer win and allow himself and his parents into the building? Can he also rescue Skiff and regain control over Boxford Corporation? Well, we'll have to find out next time.