[For this chapter, when using a Link Monster for a Link Summon, it can be treated as 1 Link Material or multiple Link Materials up to its own Link Rating.]

After a short break, I'm back! I was really in the mood to write VRAINS and this chapter happened. Thanks to everyone who reviewed the last chapter!

- In response to HunterHQ's review:

"The Numbers won't appear, but you should already know my plans for Xyz Monsters, heh heh. There are too many Numbers and not all characters have Xyz-based decks, sure, I could make them cards, but I don't like derailing what a deck's supposed to be (I already made that mistake once). I'm happy to see you realized what the tablets were based on. The Star Relics and their sins were intentional."

- In response to SoulMatter's review:

"I won't add other dark versions of the normal Summoning Methods, the reason is the same as why I won't add the Numbers... aaaand too much work." XD

- In response to scififan599's review:

"Almark also has a sin, and unlike the other Relics, he will state it himself in the story."

- In response to ZarcEternal's review:

"I'm very happy to see you realized that. I love Bungou Stray Dogs and thought that would be a good scene to demonstrate King's cunningness."

- In response to Super Shadow 2018's review:

"That's a tough question... Either choice would lead to an amazing Tag Duel. Since we got a Kaiba/Atem Tag Duel in the past, it's only fair we get a Playmaker/Revolver."

- In response to Binah the ignis's review:

"First: Hmm, that would be very entertaining to write, but sadly I don't plan on a Kioku/Aoi ship. Ryoken and Mizumi...only time can tell what will happen between them.

Second: Now that's tough. I'm not sure...I think only an actual Duel could tell.

Third: I thought of doing that, but maybe after I finish IANW Redux."

- In response to Guest's review:

"I still believe he misplayed on purpose, maybe he lied about being serious?"


(Season 3)

Extra Turn 8:

Strong Fortitude


Fifth day after Bohman's defeat...

"Project...Kreeper?"

Kioku, but more so Bloody Talker, never expected in a million years this is what Almark wanted to show them so badly since the household woke up. Apparently Nina was also kept in the dark about this project; she, Erika, and the Overdrive Monsters were amazement, but Kioku and his other self completely dumbstruck.

Almark planned on bringing back the "Creeper" archetype as the "Kreeper". Bloody Talker was at a loss as he stared at the file on Almark's laptop.

"That's right!" Almark startled him with his abrupt shouting, closing the lid of his laptop and revealing his eyes that literally sparkled with pride. "Your old deck only incorporated the Krawlers, Jack-Knights, Imduk and Lees from the "Star Chalice" archetype, and some "Star Relic" Monsters—excluding me, may I add! But this new deck will incorporate everything related to the Star Relic lore and- the best part in my opinion- with a new playstyle! Instead of destroying your own comrades, you send them to the Charge Zone!"

"A deck which harnesses the Charge Zone." Nina narrowed her eyes. "Like yours."

Almark gave a victorious chuckle. "Once again, that's right. But I must apologize for not coming up with this project sooner, namely before Bloody Talker-sama vs. Revolver: it has the potential to transcend his current Master Duel Deck, maybe it could've defeated Revolver."

"It's...not a problem." Bloody Talker murmured out of Kioku. It really wasn't; he prepared himself to fight his rival with his current Master Duel Deck and replacing it at the last minute would've felt forced. And he wasn't mad at his loss, either.

"But Almark-san," Grangadez spoke up. "If you create corrupted versions of the Star Relics using actual Star Relic coding...won't it create new, living Star Relics like yourself?"

"Interesting question, albeit negative." Almark said, sounding a little disappointed. "It won't create new Star Relics or affect the originals. There's only room for one Almark Baskerville in this universe! Though, not to brag, I would've made a great villain..." he then rubbed his chin. "But now I'm kinda tempted to see how we would fare against an evil Almark..."

"Should we let that comment slide or take act?" Grandeen showed a joking smirk.

"The second." Nina raised a hand.

"You meanie!" Almark puffed his cheeks, prompting the others to laugh, except Kioku.

Lees... Bloody Talker thought as he ran his fingers over his ex-ace Monster's card on the screen.

"Kioku-nii?" Erika placed a hand over her brother's, worried. That caught the attention of the others, noticing Kioku's downcast expression.

"Uuuhhhm..." Almark was at a loss of words. "Bloody Talker-sama, I humbly apologize. Let's forget this ever happened—"

"No, I..." Bloody Talker quickly spoke up. He then smiled sombrely. "This was very thoughtful of you, Almark. Thank you. To be honest, I haven't properly honored my past family yet. That doesn't apply only to the Creepers; the "Hex" Monsters and Fanatic Nightingale are on that list, too. It feels like I'm only honoring Protron and Grim by using Pixiel, the Cyberse Particles, and Creeping Blood Dragon."

"That isn't true, Master." Grangadez said.

"You're living and evolving." Erika smiled. "You're happy. That's what they wished for, I'm sure. They must be watching over you and smiling as well."

"Yeah, but...it still leaves a bad taste in my mouth," Bloody Talker explained. "I don't need a fake to replace the original. What's good in having a fake when it only reminds us of the original's death? Unless it's the real thing, I don't need it. That's my take on the matter."

His smile turned zestful. "But that doesn't mean I shouldn't give a chance to these new friends. Almark! Can you not incorporate the Monsters which were part of my old deck into this? If your answer is yes, then the lights are green for this project!"

"Hmm, we're talking about fifteen Monsters, not counting additional copies." Almark rubbed his chin again. He then grinned. "Can do."

While Almark carried out his new task and the others finished the preparations for tomorrow's planned activity, Kioku had to answer the phone call he received from an unknown number.

"Ketsueki Kioku speaking."

[Good afternoon, Kioku.]

His eyes widen in surprise. "Zaizen Akira?"

[Sorry if I startled you. I realized just now I never got your number; I got it from Aoi.] Akira stated.

"Ah, I see." Kioku said. Huh, he forgot to ask for his number when he got Aoi's... He'll make sure to save it this time. "How are things on your end?"

[I'm still nonplussed how Almark's program can keep us hidden from King. Thank Almark on my and Aoi's behalf.]

"Will do." Kioku chuckled. "And it's good to know King's not on your tail."

[Yes, it is. I know Aoi can hold her ground in VRAINS, but it's dangerous if she—or the majority of us, for that matter, are attacked in the real world.]

"Yeah... We'll have to find a way to get around that."

Akira hummed in agreement. [I'm serene to know Aoi's safe. Aoi's also doing great, especially after meeting Miyu. And you?]

"Everything's great here, too." Kioku glanced at the others as he said that. "The past is in the past."

[Good.] from his voice, it was clear Akira smiled. He turned serious again. [I've called you...on Onizuka's behalf.]

"Go Onizuka?" Kioku's eyes narrowed.

[First and foremost, I want to thank you for stopping Onizuka's capture unit instead of me.] Akira told. [I'm positive King wouldn't have let that slide if I was the one to stop it. After Onizuka lost to Playmaker, he was sent to the hospital and the A.I. chip was removed.]

"About time." Kioku sighed in relief. He didn't forgive the ex-Charisma Duelist yet, but he was glad to hear that abomination was gone from his head. "How is he?"

[He came back to his senses two days after the Duel,] Akira explained. [Today's his sixth day in the hospital, and he's being released as we speak. I visited him yesterday, and while he hasn't fully recovered yet, he's in better shape. He even smiled when we bid farewell.]

"I see."

[He...made a request.] Akira continued. [But to complete it I would've had to mobilize SOL, drawing King's attention. So I explained to him the whole situation with King where no ears could reach us.]

"That was a wise choice." Kioku nodded. They need all the firepower they can find to defeat King in the next battle, and it never hurts to know who are your enemies.

[His request...] Akira hesitated for a moment. [Was a chance to talk with you and Erika.]

Time Skip: at afternoon - LINK VRAINS: Bloody Talker's private server

"I'm grateful you accepted this meeting."

Were Go's genuine words after he finished marveling the youth's private server, which was usable even if LINK VRAINS was currently offline. He doesn't know a thing about programming, but he's confident this world's a chef-d'oeuvre. Go glanced at the female avatar before he continued.

"You're Bloody Talker's twin sister. This is the first time we meet face-to-face. Adam, was it?"

"I've recently changed my name from Adam to Eve." she stated.

"I see." Go nodded. He then addressed the other male. "I want to thank you, Bloody Talker, for not giving up on me. If it wasn't for your, Soulburner's, and Playmaker's united efforts, I wouldn't be here today. I... I wouldn't be alive to begin with."

"We were trying to knock some sense into an old comrade." Bloody Talker said. "It was the right thing to do, especially after the state you put yourself in."

Go avoided eye contact by looking off to the side, clearly abashed. He looked at him before continuing. "Do you think I deserve death?"

"What?" Bloody Talker's eyes widen, shocked like Eve.

"You heard me the first time." Go narrowed his eyes. "And answer truthfully."

"...OK." Bloody Talker resigned himself. "But I will only if you tell what made you ask that."

"...I wasn't in my right mind when it happened. I read of it in an article during my stay in the hospital: the fact that Deirdre was killed." Go said. "I won't accuse you or ask you about it as it is none of my business, but I don't think I'm wrong when I say you aren't disheartened by her death."

"Oh, I get it now..." Bloody Talker realized where this was going. "You're comparing your bad deeds to Deirdre's, right?"

Go nodded. "I sped up the war between humans and Ignis. If it wasn't for me, Earth wouldn't have been sacrificed and SOL wouldn't have been attacked by Lightning, resulting in Lily's death. I'm responsible for their deaths...and for leaving the orphanage, overshadowing the children's smiles and my friends' concerned will...and for endangering people. I did all that...just to satisfy my lame pride! Do I deserve death, Bloody Talker!?"

The youth in question stayed silent for some seconds. "...If I say yes, Eve wouldn't be standing here."

"What?" Go inquired in confusion.

"Onizuka, you and I are alike." Eve declared, surprising him. "Once we were both blinded by our ideals, but now we wish to make things right...to change and apologize to the world."

"Just like in your case, we didn't give up on Eve and we managed to sway her over." Bloody Talker said as he and Eve held hands. "Deirdre hurt many people on purpose to complete her revenge, but you and Eve feel sorry for what you've done. That's what makes you different from Deirdre, remorse. So no, you don't deserve death."

"The orphanage...and the world...need you, Onizuka, I won't let you die until you make things right!" he gave a thumbs-up with his free hand and grinned, and Eve nodded with a smile. "But seriously, what sort of dark question was that!? You sure you aren't from the DC universe?"

Go was shocked at first, but he eventually smiled. "Yes, I'm sure. You two...thank you. You and the orphanage helped me rediscover myself. No matter how many times I fall, I'll keep standing back up. And I'll keep going home to those who believe in me!" he raised a hand and closed it. "That's the real Go Onizuka."

"Nice spirit." Bloody Talker nodded. "It's good to see you back, Onizuka."

"Just Go will do." Go pointed out. "Also... Bloody Talker, could you Duel me? I want to prove to everybody- myself included- the old Go Onizuka is back, and this time, I'm willing to accept all your anger and I won't care about victory or loss."

Bloody Talker grinned. "Hoh? Interesting. I accept your challenge!"

"I'm sorry, Eve, but I have an unsettled score with your brother." Go apologized.

"I know the feeling." Eve admitted, thinking of Kaiba. She then logged out, and Bloody Talker raised a hand before closing it.

"Speed Duel course, on!"

Following those words, Data Material descended from the azure sky and flooded the canyon, creating walls of raging wind between the chasms and revealing a course. Bloody Talker aligned himself with his opponent and a holographic countdown screen appeared.

"When it hits zero, we race to the finish line." he stated. "Which is there."

A large, holographic red arrow appeared above a chasm as emphasis.

"To decide who goes first and second?" Go couldn't help but smirk. He was bedridden for days; he couldn't wait for the chance to finally move! "Let's go!"

The countdown reached zero and the two Duelists sprinted forward. Bloody Talker was able to get an early lead as he proved to be faster than Go on foot and flew past the finish line on his D-Board for first, followed by Go seconds later.

"You haven't fully recovered yet." Bloody Talker remarked as he glanced behind him. "But you accepted a race nonetheless?"

"Of course." Go's smirk widen. "It was clearly more exciting than rock-paper-scissors!"

"Point taken." Bloody Talker chuckled. "I choose to take the second turn! First turn's yours, Go!"

"SPEED DUEL!" they shouted in unison.

GO Onizuka: LP 4000

VS

Bloody Talker: LP 4000

(The Duel is conducted as a Speed Duel.)

"Ore no turn!" Go declared as his four cards appeared. "From my hand, I summon Gouki Suprex!"

A humanoid wrestler clad in a dinosaur-themed suit with long hair appeared in front of him.

Gouki Suprex: Earth / Warrior / Effect / ATK: 1800 / DEF: 0 / LV: 4

"Gouki, you say?" Bloody Talker blinked twice. "Not Dinowrestler?"

"When I was on the verge of death, I realized what deck I should be playing," Go explained. "It's the deck I've been using to bring smiles to the children! Not the deck which sped up a war!"

"Heh, a nice choice."

"I activate Suprex's effect! When this card is Normal Summoned, I can Special Summon a Gouki from my hand! Appear, Gouki Bearhug!"

A humanoid wrestler clad in a bear-themed suit appeared next.

Gouki Bearhug: Earth / Warrior / Effect / ATK: 2400 / DEF: 0 / LV: 6

"Appear! The circuit of fortitude!" a Link Portal opened above Go at those words. "The summoning conditions are two "Gouki" Monsters! I set Suprex and Bearhug in the Link Markers! Link Summon! Link 2! Gouki Heel Ogre!"

A humanoid wrestler with demonic features and flaming hair emerged from the portal and flew in the Extra Monster Zone on Go's left.

Gouki Heel Ogre: Earth / Warrior / Effect / ATK: 1000 / Link 2: Top, Bottom

"The effects of Suprex and Bearhug activate as they were sent from the field to the Graveyard!" Go stated. "I add a "Gouki" card from my Deck to my hand, except another copy of that Monster. Next, I activate the Spell Card Gouki Re-Match! I target Suprex and Bearhug in my Graveyard and Special Summon them in defense mode!"

The two Monsters emerged from a GY Portal, Bearhug flying behind Heel Ogre and Suprex on the former's right.

"Appear again! The circuit of fortitude!" another Link Portal appeared. "The summoning conditions are two or more "Gouki" Monsters! I set Suprex and the Link 2 Heel Ogre in the Link Markers! Link Summon! Link 3! Gouki Thunder Ogre!"

A humanoid wrestler with a cape blowing from its shoulders and an electrical battery-like accessory attached to each of its arms emerged from the portal and flew in the Extra Monster Zone on Go's left.

Gouki Thunder Ogre: Earth / Warrior / Effect / ATK: 2200 / Link 3: Bottom-Left, Bottom-Right, Top

"I activate the Spell Card The Warrior Returning Alive!" Go exclaimed. "I target the Warrior-Type Suprex in my Graveyard and add it to my hand! Then here's Thunder Ogre's effect! During the turn player's Main Phase, they can Normal Summon one Monster to their zone this card points to, in addition to their usual Normal Summon. Using this effect, I summon Gouki Suprex!"

Suprex reappeared under Thunder Ogre's Bottom-Right Marker.

"I activate Suprex's effect again! I Special Summon Gouki Twistcobra from my hand!"

A humanoid wrestler clad in a snake-themed suit appeared in his remaining Main Monster Zone.

Gouki Twistcobra: Earth / Warrior / Effect / ATK: 1600 / DEF: 0 / LV: 3

"The circuit of fortitude!" Go gestured at the sky, causing another Link Portal to open. "The summoning conditions are two or more Gouki! I set Twistcobra and the Link 3 Thunder Ogre! Link Summon! Appear, Link 4! Gouki The Master Ogre!"

A humanoid wrestler with a cape blowing from its shoulders and holding an axe emerged from the portal and flew in the Extra Monster Zone on Go's left.

Gouki The Master Ogre: Earth / Warrior / Effect / ATK: 2800 / Link 3: Bottom-Left, Bottom, Bottom-Right, Top

"The effect of Twistcobra that was sent from the field to the Graveyard activates." Go added a new Gouki card to his hand. "I end my turn."

"Wagahai no turn! Draw!" Bloody Talker grinned like a Cheshire cat as he gazed at his opponent's field. "You summoned Master Ogre that can negate the effects of my face-up cards and placed it in the Extra Monster Zone on my right, blocking Backup Lady's effect... No mercy at all! I would've done the same, so I'm in no position to judge. That said, here I come! I summon Relativity Dragoflux!"

An evolved Dragotron, the very Monster that started their previous Duel, appeared with a roar. It was a muscular, bipedal dragon with blue scales, a light blue jaw, neck, and torso, cogs around its biceps and ankles, a holographic visor over its eyes, and holding a futuristic rocket launcher with glowing, violet highlights.

Relativity Dragoflux: Dark / Cyberse / Effect / ATK: 1800 / DEF: 200 / LV: 4

"I activate his effect!" Bloody Talker slid a card from his hand into the GY slot of his Duel Disk. "If Dragoflux is Normal Summoned, I can discard one card to add one Light and Dark Cyberse Monster from my Deck to my hand, except another Dragoflux."

"I won't let you! I activate The Master Ogre's effect!" Go abruptly declared. "Once during either player's turn, I can return to my hand any number of "Gouki" Monsters I control next to Master Ogre's Link Markers to target the same number of face-up cards you control and negate their effects for this turn! I return Suprex to my hand and target your Dragoflux!"

The said Monster vanished as Dragoflux grayed out.

"Then how about this? Manifest, the Circuit hiding in the shadows!" the Link Portal appeared above Bloody Talker. "The summoning condition is one Level 4 or lower Cyberse! I set the Level 4 Dragoflux! Link Summon! Link 1! USB-Executor!"

The petite, young male wearing a black bodysuit, a sleeveless, black trench coat with yellow trims and a purple interior, black and yellow high-knee boot, two black belts around its waist, a purple masquerade mask with black eye sockets, having short dirty blonde hair, and holding a sword whose end resembled a flash drive emerged from the portal and flew in the Extra Monster Zone on its user's left.

USB-Executor: ATK 500 / Link 1: Bottom

"Since I control a Link Monster, I can activate the Spell Card Net Browsing!" a card, which depicted a person surfing the net on Link Apple, appeared. "I add the Equip Spell Cynet Defrag from my Deck to my hand and activate it! I target the Level 4 Dragoflux in my Graveyard and Special Summon him equipped with Cynet Defrag!"

The bipedal dragon returned to the field at those words.

"Next, I activate the effect of NightMare Skull in my hand!" Bloody Talker revealed the card. "I target the Cyberse-Type Dragoflux on my field to Special Summon Skull!"

A humanoid Monster clad in skeleton-shaped silver armor that left some of its dark purple skin exposed, having green slitted eyes, a fanged mouth, three-toed feet that ended in white talons, clawed hands with four fingers each, two silver horns that pointed downward, and large bat wings protruding from its back with glowing, crimson veins appeared and posed, placing its left hand on its hip, right arm extended to the side, chin raised and head slightly tilted to the left.

NightMare Skull: Dark / Cyberse / Effect / ATK: 2500 / DEF: 1200 / LV: 6

"Also, the targeted Dragoflux returns to my hand." the bipedal dragon vanished at those words. "Cynet Defrag is sent to the Graveyard as the equipped Monster left the field. Then manifest, the Circuit hiding in the shadows! The summoning conditions are one or more Monsters, including a Cyberse! I set NightMare Skull and USB-Executor! Link Summon! Link 2! System Converter!"

The evolved Cyberse Converter leaped out of the portal with a mechanical growl, following its user in the Extra Monster Zone on his left.

System Converter: ATK 1200 / Link 2: Bottom, Bottom-Right

"Since he was Link Summoned, I can activate System Converter's effect to add a Cyberse Tuner Monster from my Deck to my hand!" Bloody Talker stated. "I add Relativity Resonator to my hand and Special Summon it!"

The legless fiend clad in a dark blue robe with a brown center, a gray head with purple membranes, an antique cog attached to its back, and holding a tuning fork and mallet appeared next.

Relativity Resonator: Tuner / ATK 600 / DEF 200 / LV: 2

"I can Special Summon this friend if I control a Cyberse Monster," Bloody Talker explained. "Then I Link Summon for the third time! The summoning conditions are two or more non-Token Monsters! I set Resonator and the Link 2 Converter! Link Summon! My proud knight, soar! Link 3! Relativity Talker Extended!"

Black flames erupted from the portal, from which a muscular, "Code Talker"-like Monster with flaming white circuits over its skin, a black and white feathered wing protruding from its back, clad in golden armor with purple highlights and a visor of the same color, fanged shoulder plates, and a long blade attached to each of its wrists emerged. The knight gave a battle cry as it entered the fray, flying in the Extra Monster Zone on its user's left.

Relativity Talker Extended: Dark / Cyberse / Effect / ATK: 2300 / Link 3: Bottom-Left, Right, Top

"A new version of Relativity Talker...?" Go thought out loud. But that position and those Link Markers... Why would he summon it at this timing? "Its effect must suit the situation very well if you decided to seal your Extra Deck."

"Your hunch is correct!" Bloody Talker chuckled. "Extended, due to his effect, is unaffected by my opponent's Monster Effects; that means if Master Ogre manages to survive this turn, its power will be useless against Extended. Extended's other effect! While you control a Monster with Attack more than or equal to this Monster's original Attack, if Extended was Link Summoned this or the previous turn, its Attack is doubled. Integration Force!"

The winged knight was surrounded by a purple aura.

(Extended: 2300→4600 ATK)

So instead of pressing forward with the likes of Cyberse Berserker, he chose a Monster that hinders my options in the next turn!? Go realized as his eyes widened. "Tch, not bad, Bloody Talker."

"Obviously!" the youth gloated. "Battle! Relativity Talker Extended, attack Gouki The Master Ogre! Reality Void!"

"I activate the effect of Gouki Octostretch in my hand!" Go revealed the card. "If my opponent's Monster attacks, I can discard it to halve the battle damage I would take from that battle!"

Master Ogre raised its axe and assumed a defensive stance while Extended was flying across the field, ready to accept its foe's strike. Extended swung an arm at the axe, shattering it with its own blade, then it slashed Master Ogre across the chest with its other blade, causing it to gasp before exploding. Go gritted his teeth as his D-Board wobbled by the shock waves.

GO Onizuka: LP 4000 - 900 = 3100

"You searched Octostretch knowing I'll deal lots of damage at once..." Bloody Talker narrowed his eyes.

"Obviously." Go gloated this time, smirking.

"Humph, not bad. I end my turn."

"Ore no turn! Draw!" Go announced. "I reveal Gouki Moonsault in my hand to activate its effect! I target a "Gouki" Monster on my field to Special Summon this card and return that target to my hand. I target Bearhug!"

Bearhug vanished at those words and a humanoid wrestler clad in a rabbit-themed suit took its place, following Go in his Right Main Monster Zone.

Gouki Moonsault: Earth / Warrior / Effect / ATK: 1900 / DEF: 0 / LV: 6

"Hoh, so you had your own version of NightMare Skull up your sleeve!" Bloody Talker raised an eyebrow and grinned. "Since you don't control a Monster with 2300 or more Attack, Integration Force expires."

The aura surrounding the winged knight vanished.

(Extended: 4600→2300 ATK)

"I activate Moonsault's effect!" Go stated. "I target one "Gouki" Link Monster in my Graveyard, return it to the Extra Deck, and add one "Gouki" Monster from my Graveyard to my hand. I return Thunder Ogre and Twistcobra to my Extra Deck and hand respectively! Next, I summon Suprex!"

Suprex appeared on Moonsault's left.

"I activate its effect! Appear, Bearhug!" the said Monster returned to his field. "Appear! The circuit of fortitude! I set Moonsault, Suprex, and Bearhug in the Link Markers! Link Summon! Gouki Thunder Ogre!"

Thunder Ogre emerged from the portal and flew in the Extra Monster Zone on Go's left.

"The effects of Suprex and Bearhug activate!" Go stated. "I add two "Gouki" cards from my Deck to my hand. Using Thunder Ogre's effect, I Normal Summon a second Gouki Suprex!"

A new Suprex appeared under Thunder Ogre's Bottom-Right Marker.

"I activate its effect! Appear, Twistcobra!" the said Monster appeared on Suprex's left.

"It's like a replay of the last turn..." Bloody Talker's eyes widen in shock.

"Appear again! The circuit of fortitude!" the second Link Portal of the turn opened. "The summoning conditions are two "Gouki" Monsters! I set Suprex and Twistcobra! Link Summon! Link 2! Gouki Jet Ogre!"

A humanoid wrestler with a jetpack attached to its back and holding a sword emerged from the portal and flew under Thunder Ogre's Bottom-Right Marker.

Gouki Jet Ogre: Earth / Warrior / Effect / ATK: 2000 / Link 2: Left, Bottom

"Twistcobra's effect!" Go tore another card out of his deck. "I activate Gouki Re-Match! I target Octostretch and Moonsault in my Graveyard and Special Summon them in defense mode!"

Moonsault and a humanoid wrestler clad in a octopus-themed suit emerged from a GY Portal in Go's remaining Main Monster Zones.

"And again! The circuit of fortitude!" Go cried out. "The summoning conditions are three or more "Gouki" Monsters! I set Octostretch, Moonsault, and the Link 3 Thunder Ogre! Link Summon! Appear, Link 4! Gouki The Giant Ogre!"

A humanoid wrestler holding a sword emerged from the portal with a resounding battle cry and followed its user in the Extra Monster Zone on his left.

Gouki The Giant Ogre: Earth / Warrior / Effect / ATK: 3000 / Link 2: Left, Bottom-Left, Bottom-Right, Right

"Hoh, the Link Monster which forced Revolver to go serious against you..." Bloody Talker eyed the Link 4 with interest and excitement. "Use it to corner me as well, Go! Ekusutendo no kōka! Integration Force!"

The purple aura returned to give strength to the winged knight.

(Extended: 2300→4600 ATK)

"The effect of Octostretch that was sent from the field to the Graveyard activates!" Go threw an arm forward. "I add a new "Gouki" card from my Deck to my hand! Then, I activate the Spell Card Gouki Face Turn! I destroy Jet Ogre on my field to Special Summon The Master Ogre from my Graveyard!"

Jet Ogre exploded in particles and Master Ogre took its place seconds later.

"Since Jet Ogre was sent from the field to the Graveyard, its effect activates!" Go smirked confidently. "The Attack of all Gouki I currently control increases by 500 points until the end of this turn!"

His two Link 4 Monsters tightened the grip of their weapons as an orange aura surrounded them.

(The Master Ogre: 2800→3300 ATK; The Giant Ogre: 3000→3500 ATK)

"I activate the Spell Card Gouki Finishing Hold!" Go continued. "I target Giant Ogre and have it gain 1000 Attack for each of its Link Markers and the ability to inflict piercing battle damage until the end of this turn!"

(The Giant Ogre: 3500→7500 ATK)

"It gained 4000 Attack from a single card, which he searched!?" Bloody Talker gasped. In a lower tone, he added. "I guess that's his way to stand out among people who pull cards out of storms..."

"To finish it up, I activate the Spell Card Gouki Replace!" a card, which depicted Thunder Ogre exiting a wrestling ring while Destroy Ogre took its place and the two high fived, appeared. "I can activate this card if I control at least two Link 3 or higher "Gouki" Link Monsters. Through its effect, I add two Level 2 or lower "Gouki" Monsters with different names from my Deck to my hand, then I can draw one card since I control a Link 4 Gouki!"

"And this time, from one card came three..." Bloody Talker sweatdropped. "Your new cards are...pretty good."

"The old Go Onizuka was always stronger than the one I was weeks ago." Go replied with a smug grin. "Let's Battle! The Giant Ogre attacks Relativity Talker Extended! Upon my attack declaration, I activate Giant Ogre's effect! Once per turn, if this card's current Attack is different from its original value, I can make it gain 1000 Attack until the end of this turn!"

(The Giant Ogre: 7500→8500 ATK)

"Do it, my Monster!" Go ordered. "Ogre Sword!"

"Too bad it won't do you any good!" Bloody Talker abruptly grinned. "During damage calculation, if my Cyberse Link Monster battles an opponent's Monster, I can banish NightMare Skull from my Graveyard to activate its effect! My monster's Attack becomes equal to the Attack of your battling Monster plus an additional 100 during damage calculation only!"

(Extended: 4600→8600 ATK)

"What!?" Go cried out. "However, Giant Ogre can't be destroyed by battle due to its own effect!"

The two Link Monsters clashed blades and released an energy wave that threw them back to their owner's side.

GO Onizuka: LP 3100 - 100 = 3000

(Extended: 8600→4600 ATK)

"I end my turn." Go concluded begrudgingly. "My Monsters' Attack Points return to normal and your Integration Force expires."

(The Master Ogre: 3300→2800 ATK; The Giant Ogre: 8500→3000 ATK; Extended: 4600→2300 ATK)

"Wagahai no turn!" Bloody Talker exclaimed. "Draw! I resummon Relativity Dragoflux!"

The bipedal dragon reappeared in his Middle Main Monster Zone.

"And I activate his effect." Bloody Talker said. "I discard one card to add one Light and Dark Cyberse Monster from my Deck to my hand! I activate the effect of Crypto Exulter that I added to my hand: if this card is added to my hand, except during the Draw Phase, I can Special Summon it!"

A small, lavender machine that somewhat resembled a bat skull and had six, yellow slits for eyes, four claws extending from its back, and a long centipede tail attached to its neck appeared on Dragoflux's right, cradling a glowing coin in its little legs.

Crypto Exulter: Dark / Cyberse / Effect / ATK: 1100 / DEF: 800 / LV: 4

"Now I activate the Ritual Spell Gathering Cynet Clouds from my hand!" his bodysuit's stripes started glowing blue. "By releasing Monsters from my hand or field whose total Levels equal 10 or more, or by releasing one Link 3 or higher Cyberse Link Monster I control, I can Ritual Summon this specific Ritual Monster!"

"What!?" Go gasped. "You cut it short by using only one Monster!?"

An ancient altar, which depicted an eight-headed serpent fighting a swordsman on its sides, and had a stone sword embodied in it materialized on the field.

"Using this effect, I sacrifice the Link 3 Relativity Talker Extended!" Bloody Talker shouted as his Monster exploded into particles that formed a magic circle behind the altar. "The contract has been made! The sword of valor inherits this body, using it to wield itself and to settle old grievances! Ritual Summon! Appear now, Cyberse Diviner Ame-no-Murakumo!"

Some of the clouds in the sky were sucked into the sword as it glowed. It then shattered to reveal a newer version of itself, made of polished metal with a blade that also glowed half vermilion, half azure. The magic circle glowed brighter as a figure emerged from it: it was a young man with fair skin, amber eyes, elf ears, long and black nails, and long silver hair tied into a high ponytail with the bangs over its forehead swept back. The warrior wore a dark-brown haori with yellow trims that left its torso exposed, dark-brown baggy pants that extend into tabi socks, a pair of zori with black straps, and bands of white cloth wrapped around its calves. It took hold of the sword and followed its user on Dragoflux's left.

Cyberse Diviner Ame-no-Murakumo: Light / Cyberse / Ritual / Effect / ATK: 3100 / DEF: 2500 / LV: 10

"A Level 10 Ritual Monster..." Go muttered in shock.

"There's more to come! Manifest, the Circuit hiding in the shadows!" Bloody Talker shouted. "The summoning conditions are two Cyberse! I set Dragoflux and Crypto Exulter! Link Summon! Aid me, Backup Lady!"

The Monster reminiscent of Playmaker's Backup Secretary emerged from the portal, flying on its platform and holding a holographic tablet.

Backup Lady: ATK 1400 / Link 2: Bottom-Left, Top-Right

He went for Lady even if he can't use all of its effects? Go's eyes widen a little.

Bloody Talker opened his mouth but closed it. He then continued, staring at his opponent in the eyes. "I'm sorry, Go." the Gouki user blinked in surprise. "For making fun of you during our last Duel, by saying those provoking things."

"You..." Go was taken aback. "It's alright, Bloody Talker. I...wasn't in my right mind as well, so...I guess we're even?" he then smiled. "But thank you, for caring. You may grin and act like a psycho from time to time, but you have a heart of gold."

"I try my best." Bloody Talker gave a genuine smile. "When Lady is Link Summoned, I can return a Cyberse Link Monster from my Graveyard to the Extra Deck, and if I do, I can return a Monster Card from my Graveyard to my hand as well. Using this effect, I return USB-Executor and Relativity Resonator to my Extra Deck and hand respectively. Then I Special Summon Resonator by using its effect!"

The said Monster reappeared in his Middle Main Monster Zone.

"I activate Link Restore's effect in my Graveyard, which I discarded through Dragoflux in my first turn!" Bloody Talker stated. "I banish it and target Extended in my Graveyard to Special Summon it!"

The winged knight returned to the field through a GY Portal.

"Manifest, the Circuit hiding in the shadows! The summoning conditions are three or more non-Token Monsters! I set Resonator, Extended, and the Link 2 Backup Lady!"

A spectral image of Backup Lady emerged from the real one, and the four Monsters turned into twisters as they entered four of the Link Portal's markers. At the same time, dark clouds covered the sky as if it was about to rain.

"Preserver of bonds!" Bloody Talker chanted, and a yellow beam erupted from the portal before heading into the clouds, vanishing. "Protect what you love with your sword of knowledge! Link Summon! Come forth, Link 4! Creeping Kaiser Dragon!"

The clouds parted and let a lotus bud slowly descended from the Heaven's above. When it reached the Extra Monster Zone on Bloody Talker's left, the bud bloomed and revealed a bipedal dragon inside of it, illuminated by a blinding light: it was tall and slim, had navy scales, snow-white armor on its shoulders, chest, and knees with yellow highlights, a glowing gem on its chest, a featureless face, long and black hair, and it had four arms, two of which held a bow, another a lotus, and the last one a sword.

Creeping Kaiser Dragon: Dark / Cyberse / Effect / ATK: 3000 / Link 4: Top-Left, Bottom-Left, Bottom-Right, Top-Right

"A new version of Creeping Blood Dragon, too!?" Go gasped.

"I activate Creeping Kaiser Dragon's effect." Bloody Talker grinned wide. "Once per turn, I can target and change one Monster you control to attack mode, and if I do, until the End Phase, that Monster's Attack becomes 0, it cannot change its Battle Position, change or gain Attack, and my Monsters can only target that Monster for attacks. Of course, I select Master Ogre! Sharanga Arrow!"

"I won't let you! I activate Giant Ogre's effect!" Go interjected. "When you activate a card or effect that targets this card or a Monster it points to, I can make Giant Ogre lose exactly 500 Attack Points to negate the activation!"

Kaiser Dragon fired an arrow of light from its bow, but Giant Ogre deflected it with a swing of its sword.

(The Giant Ogre: 3000→2500 ATK)

"In that case, let's Battle! Cyberse Diviner Ame-no-Murakumo, attack Gouki The Giant Ogre! Due to his effect, Monsters attacked by Ame-no-Murakumo have their effects negated until the end of damage calculation, also, their effects can't be activated after their destruction by that battle. Moreover, if he battles a Monster, he gains 900 Attack during that damage calculation only!"

Clouds started swirling around the Ritual Monster's sword.

(Ame-no-Murakumo: 3100→4000 ATK)

"Since its effects are negated, you can't activate Giant Ogre's effect!" Bloody Talker pointed out.

"But I can activate this Monster's effect!" Go revealed a card from his hand. "Gouki Iron Claw! During the Damage Step, if my Gouki battles your Monster, I can send this card from my hand to the Graveyard and activate its effect! Until the End Phase, Giant Ogre gains 500 Attack and becomes unaffected by your card effects!"

(The Giant Ogre: 2500→3000 ATK)

"Unaffected!?" Bloody Talker's eyes widen.

"That's right! Now I can activate Giant Ogre's effect!" Go declared. "It gains 1000 Attack!"

(The Giant Ogre: 3000→4000 ATK)

"Giant Ogre can't be destroyed by battle due to its own effect...!" Bloody Talker muttered. "But my Monster can do the same thing! While I control a Link Monster, Ame-no-Murakumo can't be destroyed by battle or leave the field by your card effects!"

The two Monsters clashed blades and released an energy wave that threw them back to their owner's side.

(Ame-no-Murakumo: 4000→3100 ATK)

"Battle! Creeping Kaiser Dragon, attack Gouki The Master Ogre! Nandaki Lunge!"

"I activate Gouki Diver's effect in my hand!" Go cried out. "When my opponent's Monster declares an attack, I can banish this card from my hand or Graveyard so I won't take any battle damage from that battle!"

"Another Hand-trap!?" Bloody Talker gritted his teeth.

The two Monsters clashed blades, and Kaiser Dragon's sword shattered Master Ogre's axe, then it slashed Master Ogre across the chest and caused it to explode.

"Then, the attacking Monster loses 600 Attack and it must attack again once in a row, if able."

(Kaiser: 3000→2400 ATK)

"The only Monster you control now is Giant Ogre..." Bloody Talker muttered after Go's words. "It can't be helped. Kaiser Dragon, attack The Giant Ogre! Gathering Cynet Clouds's effect from my Graveyard! I banish this Ritual Spell instead of having Kaiser Dragon be destroyed by this battle!"

The Giant Ogre let loose of a resounding roar, causing Bloody Talker's D-Board to wobble.

Bloody Talker: LP 4000 - 1600 = 2400

"To lose half of my Life Points in my own turn... You really changed, Go. I end my turn." Bloody Talker concluded with a smile. "Giant Ogre's Attack returns to 2500. Also, don't go into raptures yet! Due to its effect, you can only declare attacks which target Kaiser Dragon. Ame-no-Murakumo, on the other hand, prevents you from attacking my other Monsters while I control a Link Monster."

"A lockdown?" Go asked in surprise. He glanced at the only card in his hand, Gouki Tagpartner. As it is, I can't break through his defense. Dammit, only a miracle can save me now. But...

Go smiled as he focused on the road. I won't care about victory or loss, is what I said, didn't I? There's a chance I won't draw the card I need, but if that will be the case, then so be it. I want to change. No, I will change! Victory or loss doesn't matter! Either way, I'll continue to march forward and evolve! "Ore no turn! DRAW!"

Following his overdramatic draw, Go slowly looked at his new card—and smirked.

"Yosh! I summon Gouki Guts!"

A humanoid wrestler with flames emitting from its head appeared.

Gouki Guts: Earth / Warrior / Effect / ATK: 800 / DEF: 0 / LV: 1

"Appear! The circuit of fortitude!" Go pointed at the sky. "The summoning conditions are two or more Warrior Monsters! I set Guts and the Link 4 Giant Ogre! Unleash your power! Destroy the mountain and open my path! Link Summon! Appear, Link 4! Gouki The Powerload Ogre!

A humanoid wrestler with a blade attached to its right arm emerged from the portal with a roar, and flew in the Extra Monster Zone on its user's left.

Gouki The Powerload Ogre: Earth / Warrior / Effect / ATK: 2800 / Link 4: Bottom-Left, Bottom, Bottom-Right, Right

"Giant Ogre as a material..." Bloody Talker murmured. "For a new Link 4 Gouki?"

"Guts's effect!" Go shouted. "I add a non-Guts "Gouki" card from my Deck to my hand. It will be my last copy of Gouki Re-Match, which I activate! I target Octostretch and Bearhug in my Graveyard and Special Summon them!"

The two Monsters emerged from a GY Portal in defense mode.

"I activate Bearhug's effect!" Go stated. "If this card is Special Summoned by the effect of a "Gouki" card, I can target one face-up Monster you control so its current Attack becomes half its original Attack, until the end of this turn! My target is your Ritual Monster!"

Bearhug performed its namesake on Ame-no-Murakumo, followed by a takedown into a nearby wall.

"Ouch! And that's the reason why I'll never give wrestling a try..." Bloody Talker said. "Are you alright, Ame-no-Murakumo?"

The Ritual Monster was rubbing its back with an irritated look, answering its user's query.

(Ame-no-Murakumo: 3100→1550 ATK)

"Appear again! The circuit of fortitude!" the second Link Portal appeared. "I set Octostretch and Bearhug! Link Summon! Gouki Jet Ogre!"

A new Jet Ogre revealed itself and followed Go under Powerload Ogre's Bottom Marker.

"Octostretch's and Bearhug's effects activate!" Go added two new cards to his hand. "I activate the Continuous Spell Gouki Shout! Its effect is irrelevant because I activate Gouki Face Turn! I destroy Shout to Special Summon Giant Ogre from my Graveyard!"

The other Link 4 Monster returned to the field under Powerload Ogre's Bottom-Right Marker.

"Pawārōdo Ōga no kōka!" Go threw an arm forward. "I release Jet Ogre to target and destroy cards on the field up to the released "Gouki" Link Monster's Link Rating! Your Ritual Monster can't be destroyed, but Kaiser Dragon can!"

Jet Ogre turned into a blue lightning bolt that struck Kaiser Dragon and destroyed it.

"Jet Ogre's effect activates!" Go declared. "The Attack of all Gouki I currently control increases by 500 until the end of this turn! Powerload Ogre's other effect increases its Attack by 200 times the total Link Rating of all other Link Monsters I control!"

(The Powerload Ogre: 2800→3600→4100 ATK; The Giant Ogre: 3000→3500 ATK)

"Battle! Powerload Ogre attacks Cyberse Diviner Ame-no-Murakumo! Powerload Impact!"

"Not so fast!" the youth grinned and his bodysuit's stripes glowing red. "I pay 600 Life Points to activate my Skill, Strong Conviction!"

Bloody Talker: LP 2400 - 600 = 1800

"A Skill at this timing!?" Go gasped.

"Without Grim, Cyberse Horizon isn't an option. My old Skill was Storm Access, which I shamelessly copied from Playmaker." Bloody Talker said. "It's time for something fresh and unique, something that fits my style."

"Humph, well said." Go smiled. He's in no position to judge, after all, he uses Fighting Spirit again.

"Strong Conviction enables me to target one Monster I control, and until my next Main Phase 1, that target can't be destroyed by battle and I take no battle damage involving it! Obviously, I'll target Ame-no-Murakumo!"

The two Monsters clashed blades, but nothing happened.

"I end my turn." Go concluded. "Jet Ogre's effect ends."

(The Powerload Ogre: 4100→3600 ATK; The Giant Ogre: 3500→3000 ATK)

His Skill is more than probably Fighting Spirit...if that's the case, this will be my last chance! Bloody Talker thought. He then gripped the top card of his deck."Wagahai no turn, draw! I pay half of my Life Points to activate Cynet Defrag's effect in my Graveyard. Once per Duel, if it is in the Graveyard, I can pay the cost and activate its other effect! I target the Level 2 Resonator in my Graveyard and Special Summon it equipped with Cynet Defrag!"

Bloody Talker: LP 1800 / 2 = 900

Resonator returned to the field with a dark giggle.

"Manifest, the Circuit hiding in the shadows! I set the Level 2 Resonator! Link Summon! USB-Executor!"

The Link 1 Monster reappeared in the Extra Monster Zone on its user's left.

"I activate USB-Executor's effect, targeting Backup Lady in my Graveyard for it. The targeted Monster returns to the Extra Deck and I gain 300 Life Points for each of her Link Markers, in this case two!"

Bloody Talker: LP 900 + 600 = 1500

"Manifest for the second time, the Circuit hiding in the shadows! I set Ame-no-Murakumo and USB-Executor! Link Summon! Backup Lady!" the female Monster took USB-Executor's spot. "Thanks to my Skill's other effect, since Ame-no-Murakumo left the field, I gain 600 Life Points!"

Bloody Talker: LP 1500 + 600 = 2100

At the cost of his Life, he protects his Monsters, which then give him strength. Go thought. Heh, that's so like you, Bloody Talker...

"Using Lady's effect upon Link Summon, I return Extended and Crypto Exulter to my Extra Deck and hand respectively. Then, using its own effect, I Special Summon Exulter!" the ominous little Monster also returned to the field. "Then I Link Summon for the third time! I set Exulter and the Link 2 Backup Lady! Soar once again, Relativity Talker Extended!"

The winged knight flew out of the portal with a battle cry.

"Ekusutendo no kōka! While you control a Monster with Attack more than or equal to this Monster's original Attack, if Extended was Link Summoned this or the previous turn, its Attack is doubled! Integration Force!"

(Extended: 2300→4600 ATK)

"Battle! Relativity Talker Extended, attack Giant Ogre! Reality Void!"

Extended slashed Giant Ogre across the chest, causing it to explode and make Go's D-Board wobble by the shock waves.

GO Onizuka: LP 3000 - 1600 = 1400

"Since you don't control other Link Monsters, Powerload Ogre's Attack returns to normal." Bloody Talker stated, prompting Go to grit his teeth. "If Crypto Exulter is used to summon a Cyberse, that Monster gains a new effect, namely the following: it can attack all monsters my opponent controls, once each!"

"What!?" Go gasped.

"The finale! Extended, attack Powerload Ogre! Reality Void!"

Both Link Monsters pulled their left fist back in response, and after letting loose of a loud shout, they punched each other on the face. They both grunted in pain and remained in that position for some seconds, until Powerload Ogre fell back and exploded, knocking Go off his D-Board.

GO Onizuka: LP 1400 - 1800 = 0

Winner: Bloody Talker!

Bloody Talker caught his opponent by the arm before he could fall into the river below, and they returned to the main pillar of the server. The Duelist with heterochromia was surprised when Go suddenly burst into laughter after some panting.

"I can't believe it!" he fell backwards and onto his butt. "You've had it all set up...the path to victory. It looks like I'll need more training before I can beat you."

"Are you alright?" Bloody Talker inquired. They were both covered in bruises, but Go was also panting. "You're breathing heavily."

"Truth be told, I'm kinda worn out." Go admitted with a smile. "I haven't fully recovered yet, remember? But I'll be fine. The Duel...was amazing. It was worth it."

Should I...?

Yes. Kioku answered his other self's question. He deserves to know.

Bloody Talker nodded and offered a hand to Go. "Ketsueki Kioku," Go made a face, and he added. "Other Me's real name. Eve's is Erika. It's a pleasure, Go Onizuka."

"Your real names...!?" Go's eyes widen. He couldn't contain a short laugh. "Sorry, but I thought I'll never get to hear it! Thanks, for trusting me." he took the hand and stood up.

"One more thing," Bloody Talker continued. "Erika and I thought of holding a funeral for the Ignis that died in the war tomorrow, except for Lightning of course. We'd like for you to come as well, Go."

"A funeral?" Go parroted, seemingly unsure. "But...after all I've down for the Ignis...wouldn't I be out of place?"

"Feeling remorse is the first step in having a desire to change." Kioku said.

"You said it yourself you want to prove to everyone the old Go Onizuka is back, no? If anything, you should come to this funeral and make your point." Bloody Talker added.

"...Alright." Go eventually nodded, still unsure but also optimistic about the offer...


Fan-made Cards/Skills:

Bloody Talker:

Relativity Dragoflux (Dark/Cyberse/Effect/ATK: 1800/DEF: 200/LV: 4)

If this card is Normal Summoned: You can discard 1 card; add 2 Cyberse monsters from your Deck to your hand (1 LIGHT and 1 DARK), except "Relativity Dragoflux". If this card is Special Summoned: You can add 1 "Rate-Up" Trap from your GY to your hand. You can only use each effect of "Relativity Dragoflux" once per turn. You cannot Special Summon monsters during the turn you activate this card's effects, except Cyberse monsters.

[Trivia: this card's an evolved form of "Dragotron", a monster used by Kioku/BT in Season 2.]

Net Browsing

Normal Spell

If you control a Link Monster: Add 1 "Link", "Arrow", or "Cynet" Spell/Trap from your Deck to your hand. You can only activate 1 "Net Browsing" per turn.

NightMare Skull (Dark/Cyberse/Effect/ATK: 2500/DEF: 1200/LV: 6)

During your Main Phase or your opponent's Battle Phase, if this card is in your hand (Quick Effect): You can target 1 face-up Cyberse monster you control; Special Summon this card from your hand, and if you do, return that target to the hand. During damage calculation, if your Cyberse Link Monster battles an opponent's monster: You can banish this card from your GY; your monster's ATK becomes equal to the ATK of the opponent's battling monster +100, during damage calculation only. You can only use each effect of "NightMare Skull" once per turn.

[Trivia: the NightMare is a scareware program. This card's also an allusion to "Summoned Skull", bearing its ATK, DEF, Attribute, and Level.]

Relativity Talker Extended (Dark/Cyberse/Effect/ATK: 2300/Link 3: Bottom-Left, Right, Top)

2+ non-Token monsters

This card's name becomes "Relativity Talker" while on the field, and it is unaffected by your opponent's Monster Effects. While your opponent controls a monster with ATK more than or equal to this card's original ATK, if this card was Link Summoned this or the previous turn, its ATK is doubled. You can only control 1 monster whose original name is "Relativity Talker Extended".

Crypto Exulter (Dark/Cyberse/Effect/ATK: 1100/DEF: 800/LV: 4)

If this card is added to your hand, except during the Draw Phase: You can Special Summon it. If this card is Tributed for the Tribute Summon, or used as material for the Summon, of a Cyberse monster, you can have that monster gain the following effect.

- This card can attack all monsters your opponent controls, once each.

You can only use each effect of "Crypto Exulter" once per turn.

[Trivia: this card's name and the glowing coin in this card's artwork also appear in "Cynet Mining" and "Cyberse Reminder" and are a reference to cryptocurrency mining.]

Gathering Cynet Clouds

Ritual Spell

This card is used to Ritual Summon "Cyberse Diviner Ame-no-Murakumo". You must also Tribute monsters from your hand or field whose total Levels equal 10 or more, OR, Tribute 1 Link 3 or higher Cyberse Link Monster you control. If a card(s) you control would be destroyed by battle or card effect, you can banish this card from your GY instead. You can only use each effect of "Gathering Cynet Clouds" once per turn.

[Trivia: this card's an evolved form of "Fictional Ritual", a card used by Kioku/BT in Season 2, and a reference to cloud computing and the Heavenly Sword of Gathering Clouds (Ame-no-Murakumo-no-Tsurugi).]

Cyberse Diviner Ame-no-Murakumo (Light/Cyberse/Ritual/Effect/ATK: 3100/DEF: 2500/LV: 10)

You can Ritual Summon this card with "Gathering Cynet Clouds". While you control a Link Monster, this card cannot be destroyed by battle or leave the field by an opponent's card effect, also monsters your opponent controls cannot target monsters you control for attacks, except this one. If this card attacks a monster, that monster's effects are negated until the end of the damage calculation, also, its effects cannot be activated after its destruction by that battle. If this card battles a monster, it gains 900 ATK during that damage calculation only. If this card in its owner's possession is destroyed by an opponent's card: You can add 1 Cyberse monster from your Deck to your hand.

[Trivia: this card's an evolved form of "Cyberse Tsurugi Dragon", a monster used by Kioku/BT in Season 2, and a reference to the legendary Ame-no-Murakumo-no-Tsurugi.]

Link Restore

Normal Trap

Target 1 Link Monster in your GY: Special Summon it. If this card is in your GY: You can banish it, then target 1 Link Monster in your GY; Special Summon it. Monsters Special Summoned by this card's effects cannot attack directly that turn. You can only use 1 "Link Restore" effect per turn, and only once that turn.

Creeping Kaiser Dragon (Dark/Cyberse/Effect/ATK: 3000/Link 4: Top-Left, Bottom-Left, Bottom-Right, Top-Right)

3+ non-Token monsters

You can only control 1 "Creeping Kaiser Dragon". You cannot Summon/Set monsters to any Extra Monster Zone this card points to. Your opponent can only declare attacks which target this card. Once per turn: You can target 1 monster your opponent controls; change it to Attack Position, and if you do, until the End Phase, its ATK becomes 0, it cannot change its Battle Position or change/gain ATK, and your monsters cannot attack, except to attack that monster.

[Trivia: this card's name is based on the Kernel page-table isolation (previously called KAISER).]

Strong Conviction

Skill

Pay 600 LP, then target 1 monster you control; until your next Main Phase 1, that target cannot be destroyed by battle and you take no battle damage involving it, and if it leaves the field, you gain 600 LP.

GO Onizuka:

Gouki Replace

Normal Spell

If you control at least 2 Link 3 or higher "Gouki" Link Monsters: Add 2 Level 2 or lower "Gouki" monsters with different names from your Deck to your hand, then you can draw 1 card if you control a Link 4 or higher "Gouki" Link Monster. You can only activate 1 "Gouki Replace" per turn.

[Trivia: this card's a reference to the palm-to-palm tag action, which usually takes place during a team match.]


I am SOOOO pleased and happy with how this chapter came out to be. Go didn't win, but we can all agree he put up one Hell of a fight with the need of only one Custom Card and without the use of his Skill (which would've set up his field for the win if BT's assault hadn't defeated him).

BT used many new cards in this Duel, mainly because his Speed Duel Deck differs drastically from his Master Duel Deck. Here's its synopsis!

Taking into account a player only has 3 Spell & Trap Zones at their disposal during a Speed Duel, this deck was built using as less Continuous/Equip Spells/Traps as possible (making Overdrive Summoning practically impossible), moreover, to fit Speed Dueling's "speed" theme, this deck makes use of various effects to summon strong Monsters and defeat your opponent in a flash.

As Bohman said in Chapter 27 of Season 2, Creeping Blood Dragon protects what it loves by destroying and using brute force. You could say Kaiser Dragon is its "pure" form, the yang of the yin, which protects what it loves with knowledge and conviction. And talking about conviction, I hope you readers like BT's new Speed Duel Skill. A kind thank you to Erik, scififan599, and HunterHQ who helped me and gave me ideas to give life to this chapter!

The next Extra Turn will be the last before Season 3 officially starts!

Reviews really make my day and it's a great way to communicate with you readers, and maybe find out errors I can avoid making. Please review, and with that said, I'll see you all next time!

QOTC: Which corrupted Monster do you think will be the "Kreeper" Deck's new ace?