Yu-Gi-Oh Arc-Vrains: The Circuit Of Smiles

by donkeyboy100

A year after the Dimensional War and the revival of Zarc, and everything in Paradise City had seemed to die down. Until one day a mysterious group called the Arbiters came and invaded the Pendulum Dimension to capture Declan Akaba and Yuya Sakaki. It's now up to Yuya and his friends to travel to this unknown dimension in search for the answers to their questions.

14. Battling Beauties

Last time in Yu-Gi-Oh Arc-VRAINS The Circuit Of Smiles, Yuya, and Zuzu, along with the rest of Duel Club, helped volunteer at Den City's Orphanage where they met The Gore, a.k.a George Gore. Wanting to duel a fellow entertainer, Yuya decided to challenge Gore to a duel even though Zuzu wanted to avoid being caught. It was a tough duel for him, but with the help of his Synchro Counterpart, Yugo, and his Speedroid Deck, he was able to achieve victory. What kind of new adventures them?

"Good morning, LINK VRAINS!" The host of LINK VRAINS Frog announced as he appeared on the TV monitor in the central plaza. "It's time for morning news!"

"We have some interesting news to report about, so let's get this going," His colleague Pigeon said.

"That's right, so let's begin!" Frog declared. "So…what is it about?"

"Didn't you read the script, boss?" Pigeon asked, looking a bit disappointed.

"Well, I did…but you explain it better," Frog said, with a nervous tone.

"Very well. I will," Pigeon said as she sighed. "Anyway, as you all know, a duel between two of LINK VRAINS top duelists being Gore and Ringmaster, happened a few days ago, and in the end, Ringmaster won.

And today's news is about a certain debate that started right after the duel's conclusion, which is still going on with many people, from kids to young adults. Who is better? Blue Maiden or Maestra," Frog added.

"That's right, folks!" Pigeon added. "Just like Ringmaster, Maestra is also a current Charisma Duelist who has earned herself many loyal fans after her victory in the Master's Tournament and right after she was announced as one of the winning finalists, we posted a popularity poll for the most favorite Charisma Duelist, and the result was very surprising to see! Remind us that result, boss!"

"Well, according to our poll researcher's data, it seems to be that both Blue Maiden and Maestra had an almost equal amount of points from a poll of 1000 users, with Blue Maiden leading with only about 2 points ahead of Maestra. However, since then, people on the web forum, magazine, and even regular TV news show debated who is more popular than the other," He explained.

"Indeed! It's crazy like trying to catch a striped bass!" Pigeon remarked. "What's even crazier than the fan of the two idol Duelists is now in a fan war! One side, the True-Blue Crew they call themselves, are debating against the other group, the fan group of Maestra who is known as Maestra Maniacs."

"If this keeps up, who knows what will happen? I just wonder what Blue Maiden or Maestra feels about all of this," Frog stated.

"Who knows, but I know that I've been a fan of Blue maiden since her debut as Blue Angel, so True-Blue Crew all the way!" Pigeon cheered. "Right, boss?"

Frog just stared at him for a few seconds before she said anything else. "Well, actually, ever since the tournament, I've become more of a fan for Maestra."

Pigeon's expression then turned from happy to a surprised, bitter expression.

"WHAT THE HEC…..!" He exclaimed before she was interrupted with the 'Technical Difficulty' sign appearing over the screen.

Meanwhile, at Den City High, there was a huge commotion going on during the lunch session.

"Attention, good classmen of Den City High School!" The voice who spoke up through the mic was Shima, A student of Den City High and a member of the Duel Club. He was wearing a blue bandana with some pin that had the face of Blue Maiden, along with other male students who also wore the same thing.

"We are the members of the True-Blue Crew, who are dedicated to our greatest idol of LINK VRAINS, Blue Maiden!" He exclaimed so loudly that it created a screeching sound when he spoke up through the mic. "We only ask for your kind, simple support for our maiden, Blue Maiden, as she is the best in LINK VRAINS…no, the whole world!"

At the same time, another group was at present. This one was also full of mostly male students, except the members were wearing pink bandanas and pins with the face of Maestra on them.

"Good afternoon, students of Den City High School!" A single boy on the stand announced through a mic as well. This boy was about the same length as Shima, except he had a dark brown bowl-cut haircut, eyeglasses, upper two-buck teeth, and freckles.

"My name is Naota Shinki, and I am representative of the Maestra Maniacs. We support Maestra because she is the greatest idol of Link VRAINS for the next generation and beyond! Yes, Blue Maiden had won the popularity poll by two points, but they didn't tell you the statistic of the popularity rank! According to our research, Blue Maiden's popularity has been dwindling over the past months ever since the upgrade of LINK VRAINS. Our idol maiden, Maestra, is gaining momentum in the popularity chart. I only ask for remote support so that our idol can become the next Queen of Duelists!"

"Hey, what are you thinking, Shinki! This hour is reserved for us!" Shima shouted at the second group's rep.

"Tch, tch, Shima, my boy," Shinki replied as he wagged his finger. "Our school allows for any social group to spread their ideal or goal during any time at any place they want as long as the student body allows it and is aware of it ahead of time. It is only a coincidence that we are doing it at the same place during the same lunchtime."

"Coincidence, Schmoincidence! You get out of here!" Shima argued.

"How about you and your group do!" Naota yelled back as the two groups collided.

At the same time, the rest of the students who passed by or ate lunch felt uneasy and disturbed by the two groups. During this time, Yuya and Zuzu were having lunch with their counterparts, Yuji and Ena.

"Wow! Naoki Shima and that other guy are duking it out!"Zuzu commented.

"They're fighting over who's popular. Sounds so trivial. Ena asked.

"It is quite chaotic," Yuya stated.

"I like both of them, but I can't choose one over the other," Yuji said honestly.

Ena looked surprised at him. "Yuji, why would you think like that?! You should like Blue Maiden! "

"You're a fan of hers, Ena?" Zuzu asked.

"Of course! Yuji and I have been a big fan of hers ever since we saw her duel in LINK VRAINS, and we support her all the way, right, Yuji?"

"I didn't say that I like Maestra more. I just said that I liked them equally. You just misunderstood," Yuji said forwardly, making Ena feel bad for accusing him.

"Why does it matter so much on which duelist is better? It's more about how they use their dueling skills and what type of duelist they are," Yuya said.

"I agree with Yuya. Everything doesn't always have to be a competition, so you should let people like whatever duelist they like. Popular or not." Zuzu added. "Besides, I think that Blue Maiden might feel the same way even though I never personally met her."

"You know, speaking of Blue Maiden, how do you think she's dealing with all of this?" Yuji asked.

"Who knows? If I were her, I'd be pretty annoyed if people were bombarding me with questions about if I'm the best female duelist in LINK VRAINS," Ena replied.

"Me too," Zuzu added. "Then again, I wouldn't blame her if she feels like she's No. 2 now and wants to duel Maestra to prove that she's No. 1."

The four teens watched over the two fan groups continued to bicker and fight until two teachers came and stopped the fight. At the same time, this was happening; it was also happening at Blue Maiden or her real alias, Skye Zaizen.

Skye was currently reading the web forum about the debate. She told the school that she was still feeling a bit under the weather and couldn't go to school today when the real reason was that she would feel very embarrassed and awkward about the whole fan war. She sighed, putting away her Smartphone and just lying down on the couch, looking up at the ceiling.

That was the moment when her phone began vibrating. She checked it, and it was a call from someone named Ghost Girl.

"Hello Emma," She said as she picked up the phone.

"Hey there, Miss Popular. How are you doing?" Emma asked teasingly.

"Please don't call me that," Skye said as she sat up.

"Let me guess. You skipped school again because of what's been going on about the popularity poll, the fan war?" Emma guessed as she could hear a faint chuckle in her voice.

"Yeah, that," Skye sighed honestly.

"You know your big brother won't let you stay at home forever unless you want to be home-schooled for the rest of your life," Emma joked.

"No thanks, and Akira understands my feelings, but…. the fans. I am more worried about them," she admitted. "I don't want to say that I am…annoyed by them, but they could be just a bit troublesome to deal with."

"I hear you. I wish I had a fan who would fight over me, but I see you that you don't like the attention now, which sort of contradicting who you are as Blue Maiden back in the days," Emma said.

"Yeah," Skye agreed as she showed a small grin on her face. "So, are you just calling me to hear how I am feeling?"

"Well, something like that, but also to get you back on your feet and back to school," Emma said. "You can't this up forever, and you know it."

Skye sighed after hearing Emma's statement. "Your right. "I'll call the school first thing tomorrow and let them know I can come back."

"Good to hear. Hope everything goes well for you tomorrow," Emma said. "Anyway, talk to you later."

Emma then hung up as Skye did the same thing.

At the end of the school day...

After finishing their Duel Club meeting for today, Yuya and Zuzu were in the school library working on their project due tomorrow, along with Yuji and Ena.

"I still can't believe Skye's still not feeling better," Yuya said.

"Tell me about it. I assume that after a few days, Skye would be back to normal and return to school," Zuzu added.

"Well, people heal differently than others," Ena pointed out.

"Ena's right. We just have to let time do its thing, and hopefully soon Skye will be up and ready to come back," Yuji said.

"Hope your right," Zuzu said.

"If you like Zuzu after we're done with our project, we can stop by her place along with some treats and offer to help with her project if she isn't finished," Ena suggested.

"That's a great idea, Ena! What do you say, Zuzu?" Yuya asked.

"I say I'm in," Zuzu answered. "You mind if we stop your family's cafe after this to pick up the snacks?"

"Sure thing," Ena replied. "What do you two plan on doing?'

"Yuya and I were thinking about going down to Kolter's truck and helping feed some customers since he's coming back on Saturday," Yuji answered.

"Oh yeah, he is," Zuzu said. "How about we get up early and surprise him at the airport?"

"Sounds good to me. You guys up for it?" Yuya asked their counterparts.

"Absolutely!" They replied

"Alright, then! Now let's finish this up and head out," Zuzu said.

"Right!" The three teens responded.

At Den City's Shopping Center...

Skye was on her way back home from the grocery store after buying ingredients for tonight's dinner. After Akira informed her that he'd be coming home early from work, she told him that she'd be returning to school tomorrow and would cook his favorite food tonight. It was rare for him to come home early, especially since her brother is now the CEO of SOL Technologies, so this was a special dinner for her. He must be tired from his work, so she must do her best to make him comfortable and ease his exhaustion even though she was from waiting in that long line at the store.

"Not only was the line at the store a pain but hearing all those people debate about Maestra and me…." Skye thought to herself. All media everywhere also talked about when the big duel will happen ever since Gore's duel against Ringmaster. While normally she would like to duel strong opponents, she hated if it was forced and not natural.

"Maybe I should duel Maestra, and if I win, this stupid debate will end?" Skye wondered, considering challenging the fellow Charisma Duelist.

Skye was so deep in thought that she didn't notice someone was in front of her. The two of them bumped into each other, and the other person dropped the bags she was holding from the bump, causing them to be scattered around on the ground. Another person behind the one she bumped into, and she gasped in surprise at their crash.

"I'm sorry!" Skye immediately apologized. She quickly helped the girl she bumped into, picking all the papers scattered on the ground.

"It's okay, don't worr-…." The girl, whom Skye now saw closely, recognized who she was after seeing her face.

"Skye?" Zuzu said, surprised after seeing her classmate.

"Hey, Zuzu. Long time no see," Skye said as she helped Zuzu collect her items and helped her back up.

"Are you okay, Zuzu? I saw you fell to the ground," Ena said with a worried tone.

"I'm fine. Guess who I "bumped" into?"

Ena then turned to see Skye Zaizen in front of her.

"Hey, Skye! "I'm glad to see that you're feeling a lot better."

"Thank you, Ena, and I'm truly sorry, Zuzu. I wasn't paying attention." Skye apologized.

"It's okay. There's no need to apologize. I was also not paying attention to where I was going." Zuzu was about to offer an apology of her own to Skye before noticing the bags she was holding in her hand.

"Did you recently just go shopping?"

"Yeah. Earlier today, my brother called me saying that he'll be coming early from work," Zuzu answered.

"Your brother works for SOL Technologies, right?" Ena asked.

"That's right," Skye answered. "His name is Akira, and ever since we were kids, he's always been there to take care of me."

"And judging by those groceries in your hand, you're planning on cooking dinner for him?" Zuzu asked.

"Correct. It shows that I care a lot for him the same way he cares about me," Skye replied. "Speaking of groceries, you were guys also at the grocery store, and I just didn't happen to see you two?"

"Not really. Zuzu and I were at my parent's cafe, and we thought we picked up some treats from there and surprised you at home by offering to help you with the project that's due tomorrow," Ena answered.

"To be honest, I already finished it yesterday," Skye sadly admitted. "But I wouldn't say no to those desserts you brought. How would you guys like to come over for dinner?"

"You serious?" Zuzu asked.

"You sure your brother's going to be okay with that?" Ena added.

"Positive. I was a shy kid back when I was younger, so it makes him happy whenever I make friends," Skye replied. "I'll text him to let him know that you two are coming.

"Well, thanks, Skye," Zuzu said.

"We appreciate it," Ena added. "Let's hurry and get there before all this ice cream we have starts to melt.

The three girls then headed off to Skye's home.

At the Zaizen Residence...

Akira was currently watching TV as the channel he was on was talking about the ongoing debate about his sister and Maestra.

"Boy. All this news about Skye and Maestra must be getting under her skin," Akira said. "Hope this all blows down soon, so she can go back to relaxing."

Suddenly, the elevator door ding catching Akira's attention as he got up off the couch and saw Skye coming out from it along with two other girls.

"Akira, I'm home! And I brought some friends who I was hoping could stay for dinner." Skye stated.

"They're more than welcome," Akira replied. "So, who are these two lovely ladies, Skye?"

"The girl on my left is Zuzu Boyle, and the one on my right is Ena Yamashiro," Skye replied. "They both attend Den City High School."

"Nice to meet you, Zuzu said.

"We're so happy to be here," Ena added.

"Well, nice to meet you two, and If I didn't know any better, I'd say that the two of you are twins," Akira said.

"Really?" Skye said before turning around to the two girls. "Now that you mention Akira, they kind of do look like twins."

"How have the two of you not noticed this before?" Akira asked.

"To be honest, I noticed it the first day when I met Zuzu," Ena replied.

"Wait, you did?" Zuzu asked, "Why didn't you say anything?"

"Yuji and I agreed that we might offend you and Yuya if brought it up with you that the four of us look alike, so we decided to leave it alone," Ena answered. "But it's probably just a coincidence that we look alike. I mean, they're a lot of people in the world who look a lot like other people."

"That's true, and thank you for telling me," Zuzu said. "I can tell it wasn't easy keeping that a secret."

"No, it wasn't," Ena said. "But enough about that, how about we start working on dinner?"

"Sounds good to me," Skye said. "You continue to relax Akira while we work on dinner?"

"Alright. Let me know if you guys need help with anything," Akira said as he went back to watching TV while the girls headed over to the kitchen to cook.

A few minutes later…

Everyone was at the dinner table enjoying the cooked meal Skye and the girls made for Akira. Especially Akira, who liked it.

"This is the best curry I've ever had in my life!" Akira exclaimed. "Excellent job, Skye!"

"Thanks, bro. But I don't deserve all the credit. Ena and Zuzu helped me make it," Skye pointed out.

"Your right, sis. Props to you, Zuzu and Ena as well."

"Thanks, Akira," Ena said.

"We're just happy to see you're enjoying your meal," Zuzu added.

"Well, I am, and it's delicious!" Akira stated.

While the four of them continued eating, the TV then showcased a report regarding the debate between Blue Maiden and Maestra.

"Good evening, Den City! My name is Claire Ai, reporting here to bring all of you an important news report!" The cheerful news anchorwoman said. "Take it away, Melissa!"

"Sure thing Claire," The other news anchorwoman said. "As most of you folks know and heard ever since the duel between The Gore and Ringmaster, many LINK VRAINS fans have wondered when the duel between fellow popular Charisma Duelist Blue Maiden against new and upcoming Charisma Duelist Maestra will partake, and we are here to share that there's been some info regarding the debate between the two!"

"That's right, Melissa! Recent numbers showed that before Maestra was 2 points in popularity, but we just got notified that Maestra now matches Blue Maiden in popularity!" Claire noted.

"Fans of the two aren't happy with this result and feel that the only way to resolve which one of them is better than the other is through a due-"

Akira suddenly cut the TV off as he held a remote in his hand.

"You didn't need to do that," Skye said, turning back to her food.

"I could tell she made you uncomfortable," Akira said.

"Is that true?" Zuzu asked.

"A little bit," Skye answered.

"Does that mean you're a fan of Blue Maiden?" Ena asked.

"I wouldn't say that I'm the type of fan who would partake in some crazy ridiculous debate between her and another duelist, but the type of fan who looks up to her," Skye answered.

"Well, that's nice," Zuzu said as Ena nodded in response.

"I hate to say it, but I think it'd be best if we could change the subject to something else," Akira suggested.

"No problem," The two girls said as they went back to eating as Skye and Akira did the same.

After dinner…

"Boy. Not only did that diner hit the spot, but so did the dessert," Ena stated.

"It sure did," Zuzu said as she and Ena were in the bathroom preparing for bed. "Thanks for letting us spend the night, Skye."

"No prob," Skye said. "I'm surprised that my brother allowed you to stay, though."

"Well, it was getting late, and he probably didn't want us to walk all the way home by ourselves," Ena pointed out.

"Makes sense," Zuzu said as she finished brushing her teeth. "Well, I'm ready for bed. You know where the spare blankets are kept, Skye?"

There are probably some in my closet," Skye replied.

Zuzu went over to the closet to get some blankets as she also knocked something down from the top shelf at the same time.

"What's this?" Zuzu wondered as she picked up the fell item.

"Were able to find the blankets Zu-" Skye stopped as she immediately saw what Zuzu was holding in her hands.

"That book…" Skye said while looking at the book.

"This? I noticed it fell from the shelf and went to pick it up, and I just got curious when I saw the title." Zuzu said as she stood up with the book still in her hands.

"What's going on out here?" Ena wondered as she exited the bathroom.

"When I was trying to get some blankets for us, I accidentally knocked something over, and it was this book," Zuzu answered.

"Oh? Let me see. What is this book about?" Ena leaned closer to Zuzu to take a look at the book. It was an illustration children's book. The cover showed a girl with blue-colored two pony-tailed-haired girls with white wings wearing a frilly dress. The girl in the book seemed to be an angel.

"Blue Angel." Skye suddenly said, causing the two younger girls to look at her. "It's a story about an angel who lived a lonely life due to her cold-hearted personality. Although she acted tough, the angel by herself cried due to loneliness, shedding teardrops with the blue. When the evil monsters attacked her, her fellow angel comrades came to her aid. Through the battles, she learned of friendship and kindness and changed for the better, gaining friends who filled the void in her heart. However, for a reason unknown, the angel continues to shed tears as she defeats the evil monsters."

"You've read this book?" Zuzu asked.

"My brother used to read the book for me when I was younger to comfort me," Skye answered while looking at the book with a smile. It was nostalgic. Whenever she was crying about something bad that happened, her brother would pat her head and then show the book to her, offering to read it for her. She would stop crying and sit on her brother's lap while he was reading the book, and she listened from the very beginning until the end.

"Storybook, huh… My dad also used to do that too whenever I was sad…." Zuzu stated while recalling her childhood days. Her father and Yuya's parents bought various storybooks that she and he liked. Her father often offered to read for her as bedtime stories before sleeping or, just like Skye's brother, to comfort her whenever she was crying due to something.

When Skye looked at the expression Zuzu made, she saw her younger self overlapped with hers. "If I may know…what kind of person your face is?" She asked. When she realized it, it was too late. When Zuzu made the same face as she was young, curiosity sparked in her head, and her mouth asked first before her mind.

Zuzu sat on one of the air mattresses Akira had made for her and Ena and then looked out the window and gazed her eyes on the night sky. "He is strong-willed and kind, but sometimes he is so easy to lose his temper and also a worry-wart and overprotective. Even though I understand that he cares for me very much, I also wanted him to understand that I'm not a little girl anymore. I can take care of myself." She answered. It has been a while since she talked about her father. It felt refreshing in a way.

Skye made a look of understanding as she sat down near Zuzu. "I can understand that. My brother is almost the same. He often worries too much about me. As I grew, I've been trying my best to gain his recognition. It took a very long time, but now finally realizes I'm able to take care of myself when he's not around…."

Skye understood that her brother had to work very hard for his sake and her sake so she wouldn't suffer any hardship. He tried the best of his ability to ensure she could live a decent life. Akira was so busy with his work that it made him fail to realize that she was not the same little girl she was years ago that needed to be protected by him. But now, with that everything they've gone through in the last year, he finally accepted she's old enough to take care of herself in a way.

"Have you shared this with your brother?" Ena asked, joining the topic.

"Back then, I didn't because I felt it would bother them, but one day I decided that it was time to stand on my own two feet and tell him how I felt," Skye said. "Even though he's so busy lately, he always tries to find and make time for the two of us."

Ruri placed a hand on top of Skye's, smiling at her. "It was a good thing that you finally decided to tell him otherwise, and you would've later regretted it. The best way to solve any situation is by talking directly and expressing how you're feeling, and hoping they understand. That's what sibling – what family does." She told her. There were lots of times she argued with her father. While arguing wasn't exactly a fun thing to do, it helped them understand each other better.

"What family does…?" Skye repeated, looking at Zuzu and Ena in question.

"Yes. There are times squabble between siblings brings them closer. It's like that between Yuji and me. Even though we're not technically related, we still see and treat each other as a family because, with family, you always have to be completely honest with each other. That way, we can understand and help one another." Ena added.

Ena has often had fights with Yuji from time to time since they were kids, for the tiniest to the biggest reason. While it was not something the both of them enjoyed, it also made them closer because they could know each other's feelings through their disputes.

"Understand…and help one another…." Skye clenched her chest. She never thought about that before. When younger, she didn't want to trouble her brother with her problems because she feared it would worsen. As far as she remembered, she never had a sibling dispute with her brother. She respected him so much that she didn't want to anger him to fear he may hate her. However, listening to these two, when they put it that way, a sibling squabble didn't sound so bad…

"It's almost time for us to go to sleep." Ena suddenly said, noticing the time from her cell phone.

"I'm sorry I took your time with my story. Thank you for inviting us over for dinner and letting us stay the night." Zuzu apologized and thanked Skye before setting up her bed.

"No, it's okay. It's nice talking to you two. The three of us should do this more often." Skye suggested.

"You mean like a Girls Night?" Zuzu asked.

"Yeah. Something like that," Skye replied. "I don't know if you guys noticed, but I don't have that many female friends to hang out with, but with you two, that problem's fixed. So what do you say?"

"I wouldn't mind a little girl time," Ena said. "Plus, I'm sure Yuji would be relieved to have a break from me. What about you, Zuzu?"

"I love to hang with you, Skye, so I say yes!" Zuzu answered.

"Then it's settled. How about we plan something for tomorrow during lunch period?"

"Sounds good to us," The two girls replied as they went to bed

"It's nice to see someone else have a close relationship with a sibling," A voice near Zuzu said.

She turned to see it was her Xyz Counterpart, Lulu.

"Seeing Skye with Akira made you think of Shay, didn't it?" Zuzu asked.

"It did," Lulu admitted. "Even though Shay knows I still live within you, I'm sure there are times where he misses me and wishes to spend one day with his little sister."

"I see. Tell you what Lulu when all of this over, how bout we make that dream of his a reality?"

"Really?"

"Yeah. Back when The Doctor was controlling you, Yuto's will and desire to get you back was so strong that he physically swapped bodies with Yuya, so I'm pretty sure we can do the same thing."

"I hope your right. Anyway, I should let you get back to sleep since you have school tomorrow. Goodnight, Zuzu."

"Goodnight, Lulu"

Lulu then disappeared as Zuzu went to sleep.

On the way to Den Academy...

"Ugh. That was a tough night for us yesterday."

This was said Yuji, who was currently walking with Yuya on their way to school. After finishing their project that's due today, they decided to work at Kolter's food truck to kill time and serve hungry stomachs. It was a very busy night, just like the one they had a couple of days ago, and it was even tougher for them without Zuzu and Ena.

"Tell me about it. Even after closing up, it was still hard for me to get some sleep after all that work," Yuya bitterly said.

"I now regret having the idea," Yuji stated. "Anyway, any word from the girls? I haven't heard from them ever since they told us they were staying over at Zaizen's place.

"Nothing from Zuzu or Ena," Yuya answered. "They're probably already on their way to school and be meeting us there."

"You're probably right, but I preferred for them to notify us first," Yuji complained. "I know that Ena can take of herself, but I do worry if I haven't heard from her or seen her for a while."

"I know, Yuji. I feel the same about Zuzu," Yuya said. "But there are times you have to let do things on their own. And if you continue to smother them, they're more likely to rebel and take drastic action."

"I know," Yuhiro said as he and Yuya both stopped walking, "But isn't it also normal for us to worry about those that we carry about and for them to do the same?"

"As far as I know, I do not have the best experience," Yuya replied. "But what I do know is that from my experiences, that there comes a time where you should worry about someone and times where you shouldn't. And a good example would be Zuzu and her father."

"How come?" Yuji asked.

"As Zuzu would get older, the more her father Skip would worry for her, even though she's shown others she could take care of herself," Yuya explained.

"So when did he finally realize that Zuzu's good on her own?"

"I'm assuming when she lost to a girl named Julia Krystal and wanted to hone her dueling skills so that the next time the two went against each other, Zuzu wins. Which in the end, she did."

"That's good to hear. I'll remember that next time when Ena feels that being overprotective and use that thought to better myself."

"I know you can do it," Yuya said as he and Yuya continued on their way to school.

"You know, I was thinking," Yuji said, "that we have plenty of time to kill before school starts, and my favorite donut shop is near the school. So how about getting ourselves a donut?"

"A donut, you say?" Yuhiro asked. "I already had breakfast this morning, but I could go for a donut. "What kind do they got? Glazed, chocolate, sprinkled, jelly?"

"Everything you just listed and more," Yuji replied. "Plus, I heard there's a buy one get one free deal going on only for today. What do you say we pick some up for the girls?"

"I say let's do it!" Yuya replied.

The rest of the walk was silent as Yuya and Yuji arrived at the donut store and purchased the donuts for them and the girls.

After buying the donuts and leaving the shop, the two teens continued their way own to school. Just before they reached Den City High, the boys noticed three familiar faces at a nearby tree.

"Is that who I think it is?" Yuji asked.

"Could be. Let's get closer to make sure," Yuya said.

As the two boys got closer to the tree, they noticed their friends Skye, Zuzu, and Ena, who was rubbing a dog's stomach.

"Hey, you guys!" Yuya and Yuji said.

"Good morning, Yuya and Yuji," Skye said as she turned to the two male teens while continuing to rub the dog's stomach along with Zuzu and Ena.

"Is this your dog? I didn't know you had one," Yuji asked.

"It's her neighbor's dog," Ena answered.

"Right before we left, her neighbor was called into work for an early meeting and asked us to walk her dog and drop him off.

"His name is Orion," Skye replied as she and the girls finished rubbing his belly and picked up his leash. "We found out that she just got him a few days ago and has been an absolute delight." The girls continued walking, with the boys following behind them.

"It's good to see that you're feeling better, Skye," Yuya said.

Skye nodded at Yuya's kind words. "Thank you. That means a lot."

Everyone was glad to see Skye back in full health and was confident all the Duel Club members would feel the same.

"Do you guys mind if I ask you a question?" Skye asked.

"Alright," Yuji responded, curious at what Skye's question might be. "What's up?"

"Have you and Yuya noticed that the two of you look alike?"

Yuya and Yuji both freeze after hearing Skye's question

"What brought that up?" Yuya asked.

"Last night, when my brother Akira met Zuzu and Ena, he immediately noticed that the two of them looked very much alike."

"So I told Zuzu that when Yuji and I first met you guys, we saw how the four of us look identical but decided not to say anything because we didn't want to offend you," Ena added.

"Is this true, Yuji?" Yuji asked.

"Yeah. Sorry for not telling you earlier," Yuji apologized. "At first, we thought you two could be our long-lost twin, but we figured it's just a coincidence that we look like each other because there are people who like alike but technically related to one another."

"Guess so," Yuya said as he sighed with relief, knowing it wasn't just a coincidence that two males looked identical.

"Also, if you don't mind asking, who are those donuts for?" Zuzu asked.

"We ended up buying them to surprise you guys with," Yuji said. "Guess it's no longer a surprise anymore, huh?"

"I know. How about we hand out the donuts at the Duel Club meeting after school?" Skye suggested.

"That's a great idea, Skye! I'm sure everyone there would like that," Yuya said.

Everyone nodded in response before Skye suddenly stopped walking, catching everyone's attention.

"Why'd you stop walking, Skye?" Ena asked.

"I stopped because I see the dog daycare center nearby where we have to drop off Orion," Skye answered.

"Aw, man. I'm not ready to say goodbye to this cutie pie here, Zuzu said with a sad look on her face.

"Don't be so upset, Zuzu," Yuya said. "I'm pretty sure that Skye's neighbor will have Skye watch her dog again and the three of you can hang out and play with the dog."

"Yuya's right," Yuji said. "This won't be the last time you see him?

"I know," Zuzu admitted. "Alright then. Let's drop off Orion and continue our way on to school."

The five teens went to the daycare to drop off Orion and resumed walking to school again, only at a much faster pace than before.

Yuya turned his head to Zuzu. "So, how was your sleepover with Skye last night?" Yuya asked.

Zuzu turned her head towards Yuya upon hearing his question. She turned to the girl. "It was a lot of fun. I had a great time."

"Is that so?" Yuya said. "I take it that you and Ena are probably going to be spending more time with her?"

"Of course. Back home, I didn't have that many girlfriends, and even after fusing with my counterparts, I've finally was able to get some female friends," Zuzu replied. "While their company is nice and all, I sometimes feel they wish they still had their bodies so we can experience real-life things together."

"I'm sure my counterparts feel the same as well," Yuya stated.

"Speaking of counterparts, you think we should tell Yuji and Ena the truth about us?"

"Probably not now," Yuya suggested. "They currently believe we all look alike is just a coincidence, and I feel that until they completely trust us, that's when we'll tell them."

"Ok then. Until then, we'll continue to keep it secret," Zuzu said as she and Yuya continued walking with the others to school.

Hours later...

After a long day of school and 30 minute Duel Club meeting, the five teens exited.

"Mmwaaahh...Finally, the school's over," Yuji yawned.

"You need to be more focus in class, Yuji, or the teacher will scold you if you get caught...again," Ena said.

"Don't give him such a hard time, Ena," Yuya stated.

"Yuya's right. I mean, the two of you ended up getting a good grade on your project," Zuzu pointed out.

"And isn't that equally important as staying focused in class?" Yuya added.

"Yeah, I guess so. At least your schoolwork's improving," Ena admitted.

"Why, thank you," Yuji said. "Are the three of you planning on hanging out tonight?"

"I'm afraid not," Ena answered.

"Something came up, so Skye had to leave early and had to put our plans on hold," Zuzu answered. "Why do you ask?"

"Because I was thinking of working another shift at Kolter's truck, so I wanted to make sure if you guys had plans or not, but by the looks of it, you're free now."

"While we would like to help, Zuzu and I were planning on heading down to the shopping center and Kolter a gift to thanks him for letting us stay at his place like you guys did when you planned the trip for him and his brother," Yuya explained. "Sorry."

"No sweat. Ena and I can work the truck, right?"

"Of course. Ever since Kolter left and with your guy's help, we're more confident to handle the truck on our own, so thank you, guys." Ena said.

"Your welcome," Zuzu replied. "Let's hurry and head down to the stores, Yuya, before it starts to get crowded."

"Good idea," Yuya replied. "See you guys tomorrow when we go and pick up Kolter and his brother,"

"Bye, you guys," Yuji and Ena said as they left.

Suddenly appearing from out of the corner was Skye, checking to see if no one was around. "Looks like I'm all alone, Good. "

Skye took her Duel Disk – a light blue model shaped like a flower with a dark blue gum at the back – out from her pocket and placed it on her wrist.

"It's time to Link into the VRAINS!''

In LINK VRAINS…

Blue Maiden logged into LINK VRAINS. Today was the day she made everyone's wish come true and put an end to this ridiculous feud. Ringmaster and Maestra were just like Playmaker in the past. They weren't trying to become Charisma Duelists, but miraculously they did. They just like to duel for fun and offer to help and work together with her and the other Charisma Duelists.

Even though she never met Maestra and has nothing against her, she hopes this duel will show everyone that popularity doesn't matter.

She noticed reporters rolling a camera at her. Good. She could use that. She turned to the camera, waving her hand before landing on a rooftop, pointing at the camera cutely.

"Everyone, I'm here! You there! And you over there! Watch! I declare that I, Blue Maiden, will duel one of LINK VRAINS Charisma Duelists!" Blue Maiden announced, indirectly referring to Maestra

"So come on out! C'mon! I know you're watching! Accept my challenge! Duel me!"

Frog and Pigeon smiled as they watched behind her. "It's finally happening! The duel between Blue Maiden and Maestra!" Frog said excitedly. "If this duel ends up being equally as interesting and exciting as her duel against Playmaker, our ratings will skyrocket and go through the roof!"

Den City's Shopping Center…

Later in the afternoon, Yuya and Zuzu were currently in a jewelry store, looking for the perfect gift for Kolter.

"How about this watch? You think Kolter would like it," Zuzu asked.

"While It's really neat, Kolter doesn't strike me as the kind of guy who likes expensive stuff," Yuya said.

"Well, what do you think would be a perfect gift for him?"

"Probably something the benefits both Kolter and his brother Jin."

"Why Jin?"

"Think about it. When Yuji and Ena got Kolter and his brother a week-long vacation as his thank you gift for helping with their school assignments and hiring them to work his truck, they not only took Kolter into account but Jin as well."

"I see. So you're saying we should find a gift that affects that equally affects Kolter and Jin?"

"Exactly!"

Suddenly Yuya and Zuzu were approached by a salesman.

"Do you two need help looking for something?" The man asked.

"Yes. We have this friend who's returning to town tomorrow after spending a week with his brother at a nice resort, and we're looking for a gift that says welcome back and thank you for everything you've done for us," Zuzu answered.

"You see. Their relationship became strained because they both work so much, and some of our friends decided to fix it by planning a vacation trip for them, so we want something that can do the same.

"I see. I think we have just the thing you're looking for," The salesman said as he led Yuya and Zuzu to one of the display cases.

"These are our brand new SolTech lockets."

"Wow. I didn't know SolTech invested in jewelry," Zuzu said.

"I'm just as surprised as you are," Yuya added. "What so special about these lockets?"

"They allow the wearers to connect to the internet, download and store videos, photos, and music, as well as communicate with others even if they're far away," The salesman replied.

"It's perfect! Just the gift we need!" Zuzu exclaimed.

"How much is it?" Yuya asked.

"Around $500," The salesman answered.

Zuzu and Yuya frowned upon hearing him.

"Aw man, we only have $300 on us," Zuzu said.

"You sure you guys don't have a cheaper version?" Yuya questioned.

"I'm afraid not," The salesman said. "But do feel free to continue looking around."

"Great, we finally found the perfect gift for Kolter, and now we can't get it because we don't have enough money," Zuzu said with an upset tone.

"Don't worry, Zuzu. Well, find the perfect gift for Kolter even if it takes us the rest of the day to do so," Yuya said.

"You're right, Yuya! We can't give up now! Thanks for cheering me up."

"I'm always here for you when you're down."

"Hey, look! It's the Blue Maiden!" A random passerby shouted. Most of the people gathered at the front of the TV screen and the outdoor stage.

"What!? Blue Maiden?" Yuya and Zuzu ran and joined the crowds.

"It looks like we may get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity here, people!" the MC said on a TV screen in one of the Den City's Shopping Center's stores. The television next to him showed a smiling Blue Maiden. "A duel between two of LINK VRAINS' Charisma Duelists! So exciting!"

"Looks like Blue Maiden wants to duel you," Yuya said.

"Even so, I can't right now," Zuzu replied. "We're in the middle of finding Kolter's gift, remember?"

"Your right. Let's continue looking," Yuya said as he and Zuzu left the crowd to head to another store before they bumped into the salesman in front of them.

"Sorry. We didn't see you there," Zuzu apologized.

"It's alright," The salesman said. "Couldn't help but notice the two of you were watching Blue Maiden. I assume that the two of you are fans of hers?"

"I don't know if we would call ourselves fans of Blue Maiden," Yuya replied.

"So you're saying that you're fans of the lucky newbie Maestra

"What do you mean by a lucky newbie?" Zuzu said with an annoyed look.

"I mean that she just appeared out of nowhere and won her way through ease, especially with her duel against Zekt. She got lucky at the end and won," The salesman replied.

"I don't know about that," Yuya interjected. "I say it was her skills that made her win. And what about Ringmaster? He also appeared from nowhere and won with his Pendulum Summoning technique."

"While true, you have to admit that it is something that blew everyone's minds, and because of that, I can let that slide."

"So you can let that slide, but not Maestra's dueling?" Zuzu asked. "Tell you, what if Maestra shows up and duels Blue Maiden within the next five minutes and ends up winning? Then you have to sell us the locket at half price."

"Zuzu, what are you doing?" Yuya asked.

"Trying to get us the perfect gift for Kolter," she replied. "So, do we have a deal or not?"

The salesman was silent for a moment before responding. "Very well then, I accept. But if she doesn't happen to show up or ends up losing, then not only will you get a discount on the locket, but you'll be prohibited from shopping here." The man said as he left the area and went back inside the store

"You sure you want to do this, Zuzu? I mean, if you lose this, then we won't be able to buy that gift for Kolter," Yuya stated.

"Then I guess I just won't lose," Zuzu replied. "First, we need to find someplace for me to hide so that no one can see me long into LINK VRAINS."

"I saw an alley nearby," Yuya informed her. "And the best part about it is that there aren't many nearby, so there's a great chance you won't be seen."

"Perfect. Let's head there now," Zuzu said as she and Yuya headed to the nearby alleyway.

In Den City alley…

"Anyone around that could see us?" Zuzu asked.

"Nope. We're in the clear. You're free to log in," Yuya answered.

"Awesome," Zuzu said as she took her Duel Disk out of her bag. She placed it on her wrist and inserted her deck.

"It's time to Link into the VRAINS!''

In LINK VRAINS…

Back at LINK VRAINS, Blue Maiden was waiting for Maestra to appear. But a few minutes passed, and she never appeared. People who gathered expecting a duel started leaving one by one. Blue Maiden herself was about to give up when she sensed a presence behind her. She whirled around and saw Maestra behind her.

"Maestra! You came!" Blue Maiden exclaimed.

"Blue maiden, what is this all about you wanting to challenge me?" Maestra asked.

"Maestra, I invited you so that we can finish a business that needs to be taken care of!" She answered as if she was on a live show stage.

"What do you mean "business"?" She asked further.

"Don't play dumb. I know you know that there's a whole debate going around LINK VRAINS between which one of us is the better duelist, and today we'll finally settle that dispute right here, right now, to see who is the more popular female Charisma Duelist in all of Link VRAINS!" She answered as she snapped her finger.

Suddenly, spotlights shined on her, making Maestra covering her eyes until she heard a loud cheer of people. Soon, as she got her vision right, she noticed she was standing now in a coliseum with a large crowd of spectators watching them.

"What the?!" She gasped. "Where did all these people come from?!"

"It is time to duel, Maestra! A duel that will calm down the chaos!" Blue Maiden called to her.

In the VIP area, Ghost Girl watched over the duel with another figure.

"Well, looks like her plan is going well so far, but do you think she will win?" She asked the person behind her.

"Oh, she will," said the figure, who revealed to be Skye's brother Akira. "If I know Skye, she's going to go all out in this duel."

"I just hope Maestra does the same because she has no idea what she's in store for," Ghost Girl added.

"Right," he nodded. "Besides, I also wanted to see this, too, to be honest with you."

I will cheer for both of them."

"Really? Sounds like to me you are more of Blossom Star's fan than Blue Angel's, and you are very close to her," Ghost Girl said in a teasing manner as she gave him a look.

"It's…It's not like that, okay!" He yelled back, with a tint of blush on his face.

In the real world, two separate groups, the True-Blue Crew with Shima Naoki and Maestra Maniacs with Naota Shinki, watched in the Den City town plaza. Kusanagi Café was also present, with the owner and the protagonists at present.

Blossom Star looked around, noticing the spectators were mostly fans of Blue Angel and Blossom Star. She sighed and then smiled as she looked towards Blue Angel.

"OK, Blue Maiden," she replied as she put up her Duel Disk. "I accept your challenge!"

"I knew you would accept it!" Blue Angel responded as she did with her Duel Disk.

DUEL!

Blue Maiden: 4000 LP

Maestra: 4000 LP

"Since you challenged me, I'll go first!" Maestra declared. "I summon Aria the Melodious Diva!"

A pink-skinned woman in a peach-colored sarong, with a single harp-shaped wing on her back, appeared, singing a graceful melody.

Aria the Melodious Diva ATK 1600 DEF 1200 LVL: 4

"When Baila is Special Summoned, I can add 1 "Melodious" monster from my Deck to my hand," She said as she added another card to her hand.

"Next, I activate the Spell Card: Melodious Duet!" The card depicted Canon and Sonata singing together. "Since I control at least one Melodious monster, I can target one of those monsters and Special Summon a Melodious monster from my Deck that is one Level higher than the targeted monster. Come to the stage, Elegy the Melodious Diva!"

Elegy appeared, clasping Aria's hand with her own.

Elegy the Melodious Diva ATK 2000 DEF 1200 LVL: 5

"Since Elegy was Special Summoned, all 'Melodious' monsters I control gain 300 attack points!"

Elegy the Melodious Diva ATK 2000→2300

Aria the Melodious Diva ATK 1600→1900

"I set a card and end my turn."

"What a sensational start from Maestra! Summoning two monsters in one move!" The MC announced.

Blue Maiden seemed a little intrigued by Maestea's monsters, "Oh? Looks like you use Fairy monsters. When I was Blue Angel, I used an archetype called "Trickstars," which are also Fairy monsters. But as I've grown, I decided I can't keep using the same dueling style and to change my Deck."

"Well, whatever Deck you have, I'll show you that mine is just as good!" Maestra stated.

"That's what I like to hear. My turn, draw!" Blue Maiden looked at the card she drew and then had a small smile on her face. I summon Marincess Blue Tang!"

A woman with long blue hair tied into a ponytail appeared, wearing a black vest over a blue dress.

Marincess Blue Tang ATK 1500 DEF 1200 LVL: 4

Maestra narrowed his eyes. "A Cyberse monster? I wasn't aware that she had possession of them?"

Back at Den City's Shopping Center…

Yuya, who watched Zuzu's duel on one of the TVs in the stores, was surprised to see Blue Maiden's monster.

"A Cyberse monster? "If she has one, does that mean there are others out there in possession of them?"

"Back at the duel…

"Blue Tang's effect activates! When she is Normal or Special Summoned, I can send a "Marincess" monster from my Deck to the Graveyard. I send Marincess Pascalus to the Graveyard." Blue Maiden raised her hand. "Shine, the circuit of friendship and bonds! The summoning condition is one Level 4 or lower 'Marincess' monster. I set Blue Tang in the Link Arrow!" The woman entered the bottom arrow.

"Link the Circuit! I Link Summon! Appear! Link-1! Marincess Blue Slug!"

A short blue-haired girl in a blue dress and tights emerged from the portal into the right Extra Monster Zone.

Marincess Blue Slug ATK 1500 LINK-1 ↓

"1500 attack points is rather high for a Link-1," Maestra muttered.

"Since Blue Tang was sent to the Graveyard to Link Summon a Water monster, I can excavate the top three cards of my Deck and add a "Marincess" card among them to my hand, then shuffle the rest into my Deck." Blue Maiden pulled out three cards: Marincess Sea Star, Marincess Decision, and Marincess Bubble Blast. She added Sea Star to her hand and returned the other two to her Deck.

"When Link Summoned, I can activate Blue Slug's effect!" Blue Maiden stated. "I target one "Marincess" Monster in my Graveyard and add it to my hand. I choose Mandarin. Next, I discard Mandarin to Special Summon Marincess Harlequin from my hand!"

Emerging from a twister of bubbles was a young woman with fair skin, blue eyes, black hair tied up in a high ponytail, having earrings decorated with blue gems and a necklace with a heart-shaped crystal, dressed in a white costume with blue heart patterns over it, white gloves, a white ball mask, and blue fins attached to her boots and elbows.

Marincess Harlequin ATK 2000 DEF 900 LVL: 5

"I can Special Summon her by discarding another "Marincess" Monster from my hand," Blue Maiden explained. "Shine again, the circuit of friendship and bonds! The summoning conditions are two Water monsters. I set Sea Horse and Blue Slug in the Link Arrows!" Her monsters entered the left and bottom arrows.

"I Link Summon! Appear! Link-2! Marincess Coral Anemone!"

A young woman with orange hair emerged from the portal at the Extra Monster Zone. She wore a white and pink dress with yellow frills that resembled a jellyfish over purple tights.

Marincess Coral Anemone ATK 2000 LINK-2 ←↓

"Since Harlequin to Link Summon a "Marincess" monster. I can return one of your monsters to your hand, and if the one I selected was Special Summoned, it returns to your Deck instead! I choose Elegy the Melodious Diva!"

A spectral image of Harlequin appeared as it flew towards Elegy, making contact as it disappeared from the field.

"Since I no longer control Elegy, all my "Melodious" monsters lose 300 points," Maestra stated.

Aria the Melodious Diva ATK 1900→1600

"I now activate Coral Anemone's effect!" Blue Maiden stated. "Once per turn, I can target one Water Monster with 1500 or less Attack in my Graveyard, and Special Summon it to a zone she points to. Come back, Mandarin!"

The little girl in the orange dress reappeared at Coral Anemone's bottom Link Marker in Attack Position.

Marincess Mandarin ATK 100 DEF 100 LVL: 1

"I have to admit. I'm a bit impressed with the combos your Deck can make," Maestra chuckled.

Blue Maiden smirked at the kind comment. "I activate the Spell Card: Marincess Stream Flux!" The card depicted an image of Blue Slug and Coral Anemone releasing torrents of water at Armored Kappa. By targeting a "Marincess" Link Monster on my field, in this case, Coral Anemone. You take 200 damage for each Link Marker the targeted Monster has!"

Two streams of water erupted from the card, washing over Maestra and sending her skidding backwards.

Maestra: 4000→3600 LP

"Shine again, the circuit of friendship and bonds! The summoning conditions are two or more Water monsters. I set Sea Angel and Link-2 Coral Anemone in the Link Arrows!" Her monsters entered the left, right, and bottom arrows.

"I Link Summon! Appear! Link-3! Marincess Marbled Rock!"

A woman in a red dress with spiky violet hair appeared. Spiked coral sat atop her shoulders, and fins adorned the sides of her dress. She smiled as she crossed her hands in the Extra Monster Zone.

Marincess Marbled Rock ATK 2500 LINK-3 ←↓→

"Amazing!" The MC commented. "Blue Maiden summoned a Link-3 Monster on her very first turn and has already taken the lead in Life Points. And something tells me she isn't done yet.

"That's right. I activate Coral Anemone's effect!" Blue Maiden stated. "Since she was sent from the field to the Graveyard, I can return a different "Marincess" card from the Graveyard to my hand. I choose Stream Flux, which I'll activate again, this time on Marbled Rock!"

This time, three streams of water hit the other female Duelist.

Maestra: 3600→3000 LP

She has a new deck, but her strategy to inflict effect damage numerous times hasn't changed. Ghost Girl thought, amused.

"Once per turn, I can activate Marbled Rock's effect to return a "Marincess" card from my Graveyard to my hand, and I choose Stream Flux. I activate it again on Marbled Rock!"

The same scene from before repeated itself.

Maestra: 3000→2400 LP

Whoo boy, what a Turn! The MC whistled. Blue Maiden is on fire today, but it seems that Maestra isn't giving an inch!"

"Come on, Zuzu. I know you can do better," Yuya said.

"Looks like Maestra isn't doing great," The snarky salesman said.

"Just you wait and see! Maestra's going to survive this turn and make a comeback!

"We'll see if that's true or not."

The two of them went back to watching the duel.

"I now activate the effect of Marincess Sea Star's effect from my hand! By discarding it, Marbled Rock gains 800 attack points!"

Marincess Marbled Rock ATK 2500→3300

Battle! Marbled Rock attacks Aria the Melodious Diva! Marincess Submerge!"

Marbled Rock raised her hands and formed a sphere of water. She then brought them down and fired a torrent of water at Aria.

"I activate my Trap Card: Tempo Shift!" Maestra abruptly stated. The card depicted Opera the Melodious Diva doing a quick costume change. "Through its effect, I can target a "Melodious" Monster I control, shuffle it back into my Deck, and Special Summon a "Melodious" Monster with a lower Level than it from my Deck! I will return Aria to my Deck to Special Summon Serenade the Melodious Diva in defense mode.

A veil of music notes surrounded Aria, dispersing to reveal Seranade in her place, sitting on one knee.

Serenade the Melodious Diva ATK 400 DEF 1900 LVL: 4

"And due to my Trap's second effect, until the Battle Phase's end, Serenade can't be destroyed by battle.

"It looks like I can't do anything else for this turn…." Blue Maiden begrudgingly admitted. "I place one card face-down and end my turn."

"Yeah! Go, Blue Maiden!" Shima and the rest of True-Blue Crew cheered as the opposite group felt ill or looked worried for Maestra.

"What do you think, Maestra?" Blue Maiden asked. "You're not done yet, right?"

Maestra looked up with a smile on her face. "Of course not! I am just warming up!"

"My turn! I draw!" Maestra said, drawing the top card of her deck. I'm in a pickle here, Maestra thought as she looked at her field. Due to that Marbled Rock of hers, she'll be able to return any "Marincess" Monster she wants, and she'll probably use it to get back Sea Star to power up her monster again, so I need to take it out immediately. Her smile widened, though, as she looked at the card she drew. But I can flip the odds in my favor with this one card.

"I activate the Spell Card: Clasing Cacophony!" The card depicted Solo the Melodious Songtress having a sing-off against Musician King. "I can target any number of "Melodious" monsters I control and an equal number of monsters my opponent controls to destroy them!"

"What!?" Blue Maiden shouted as a sudden harsh and discordant sound exploded from Maestra's card, causing her Marbled Rock and Maestra's Serenade to burst into particles.

"Per the effect of Clashing Cacophony," we both draw cards equal to the number of monsters sent to the Graveyard by this effect. Since two monsters went to the Graveyard, we both draw two cards."

"Your card lets me draw as well. How generous." Blue Maiden said as she drew her cards. "And lucky me, I drew Marincess Pufferfish, which I'll discard to use its effect to revive a destroyed "Marincess" monster, and if the monster I select is a Link Monster, I can summon another Link Monster along with it, so long it has a lower Link Rating. Return, Marincess Marbled Rock and Coral Anemone!"

A portal appeared in the center of Blue Maiden's field, and emerging out from it were Marbled Rock and Coral Anemone.

Marincess Marbled Rock ATK 2500 LINK-3 ←↓→

Marincess Coral Anemone ATK 2000 LINK-2 ←↓

"Just because you brought back your monsters doesn't mean they intimidate me." Maestra continued as she drew. "I activate the Spell Card: Ostinato! As I control no monsters, I can Fusion Summon a "Melodious" Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck by using monsters from my hand or Deck as Fusion Material!"

Blue Maiden's eyes widened. "You're fusing monsters in the Deck?!"

"From my Deck, I fuse Quartet the Melodious Songtress and Elegy the Melodious Diva!"

Spectral forms of Quarter and Elegy appeared on the field before swirling together in a multi-colored vortex.

"Inspiration of the divine! Mournful requiem! Blend your pitches under the light of the full moon and gather your new power! I Fusion Summon! Sing in the center of the moonlit stage! The song of justice! Luna Diva the Melodious Choir!"

Wrapped in a cloak of moonlight, Maestra's elegant and graceful Fusion Monster appeared to the field, emerald eyes radiating with warmth as she let out a sustained operatic note.

Luna Diva the Melodious Choir ATK 2000 DEF 2000 LVL: 6

"Maestra just summoned the monster that helped her beat Zekt!" The MC announced, making everyone excited while back at the store. Yuya smiled with pride and relief while the salesman had an angry look on his face.

Looks like Zuzu's starting to get serious, Yuya thought.

Maestra quickly looked up Luna Diva's effects. I see, she thought. This monster can't be destroyed by battle or effects. She doesn't take damage from any battles involving it, can attack twice by releasing another monster and increases her Life Points by 200, and make all my monsters lose 200 ATK if it or another "Melodious" monster destroys one of my monsters.

That effect kind of annoyed her, but she had to admit it was a good tactic. Against a duelist like herself, such an effect would limit her options. Or at least, it would make them work to adapt.

"I activate the Trap Card: Marincess Wave! Since I control a "Marincess" Link Monster, I can negate the effects of one monster you control! I negate Luna Diva's effects!"

Marincess Wave released a stream of water at Luna Diva, draining it of its effects.

"That isn't Marincess Wave's only effect!" Blue Maiden revealed. "Since I control a Link-2 or higher 'Marincess' Link Monster, all monsters I control are unaffected by your card effects until the end of the turn!"

"I won't let that stop me! Quartet the Melodious Songstress's effect activates!" Maestra continued. "When it is used as material for the Fusion Summon of a "Melodious" Fusion Monster. I can add one "Melodious Songstress" monster from my Deck to my hand. I add Soubrette the Melodious Songstress from my Deck to my hand."

A card ejected Maestra's Deck as she added it to her hand.

"Next, I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card: Photon Lead! I can now Special Summon a Level 4 or lower LIGHT monster from my hand in attack position. Come forth! Soubrette the Melodious Songstress!"

Twirling onto the field was a small sprite with long deep black hair, green and sapphire-blue garments, and magical runes painted onto her wings and skin.

Soubrette the Melodious Songstress ATK 900 DEF 300 LVL: 2

"Since I Special Summoned Soubrette while I control another "Melodious" monster, I can add a Spell Card from my Deck to my hand as well as a "Melodious" monster since I control a Fusion Monster."

Blue Maiden narrowed eyes at Maestra. "So you're planning on bringing out another Fusion Monster? Even if you do, thanks to Marbled Rock's effect, I can save her from being destroyed in battle as well as shielding me from damage at the cost of discarding a "Marincess" monster."

Maestra smiled as she added the card to her hand, her bracelet letting off a faint glow. "Who said anything about it being Fusion?" She asked rhetorically, confusing Blue Maiden.

"I activate the Ritual Spell Card: Melodic Ritual!" The card depicted Shopina the Melodious Mozarta reading a piece of sheet music with unknown blue-colored musical notes.

"A Ritual Spell Card!?" Blue Maiden seemed shocked. "Where and when did you learn how to Ritual Summon!?"

"Did you think I only specialize in Fusion?" Maestra smirked. "By forming a strong bond with a very special friend of mine, she was able to teach me how to Ritual Summon. Now then, let's see if I was a good student, shall we? Due to the effect of my Ritual Spell Card, I can tribute "Melodious" Monsters in my hand or on my field, or return "Melodious" Monsters from my Graveyard back to the Deck to Ritual Summon.

A large pipe organ manifested in front of Maestra, resting atop a crystalline stage decorated with flowers. Positioned around the edge of the stage was a series of eight lotus flower-shaped fire pits, a flame resting within the center of each petal.

"I'll tribute my Soubrette, who can be used as the entire tribute per her effect."

Slowly coming to life, the pipe organ began playing a beautiful tune, with Maestra's monster singing along. Soubrette raised her voice in tune with the organ's melody as she began transforming into particles of light. The pipe organ absorbed the essences of Soubrette before reaching a sustained high note, a towering pillar of light erupting from the pipes. Basking in the light of her first Ritual Summon, Maestra chanted proudly.

"Enraged prodigy, proudly stand as you blow the horn of the heavens and descend triumphantly on the path of victory! I Ritual Summon! Wagnera the Melodious Maestra!"

"A set of four snow-white Pegasus, clad in golden armor plates, galloped down the pillar of light as they pulled a golden chariot that carried Maestra's monster, a Valkyrie-like woman with long blonde hair tied into a braid, wearing a blue and white knee-length armored dress with a slit up the side and matching armor-plated boots. An elegant silver circlet with two wing-shaped extensions wrapped around her head, an opal gemstone rested snuggly in place on her forehead. Hanging from her side was a sword held firmly in a burgundy scabbard, golden trim sewn into the front. Descending closer down the pillar, slid off of the chariot and landed while the winged horses flew off. Drawing her sword from its sheath, exposing the music-note-shaped runes inscribed onto the front of the blade, the Ritual Monster belted out a deep operatic note before pointing her sword at Blue Maiden's monsters, staring them down with a warrior's gaze.

Wagnera the Melodious Maestra ATK 2000 DEF 1400 LVL: 5

"So that's your new Ritual Monster, huh?" Dennis seemed spellbound by the beauty and majesty of Wagnera but quickly snapped out of it. "I'll admit it looks very impressive, but in terms of attack power, it's far below Marbled Rock and Coral Anemone."

"Wagnera's effect! While she is on the field, all LIGHT Fairy monsters I control gain 400 ATK and DEF! Consonance Leitmotif"

Wagnera raised her hand as it emitted a bright light, enveloping her monsters.

Wagnera the Melodious Maestra ATK 2000→2400 DEF 1400→1800 LVL: 5

Luna Diva the Melodious Choir ATK 2000→2400 DEF 2000→2400 LVL: 6

"Wagnera's other effect!" Maestra continued. "Once per turn, by discarding a "Melodious" monster, like Soprano the Melodious Songstress, I can either increase the ATK of one of my monsters or decrease the ATK of one of yours. Since your monsters are unaffected by my cards, I'll choose to increase Wagnera's ATK by 1400!"

Wagnera the Melodious Maestra ATK 2400→3800

"Battle!" Maestra declared, stretching out her hand towards her Fusion monster. "Luna Diva, attack Coral Anemone! Moonlight Wave!"

Luna Diva became surrounded by glowing lunar light before shooting a powerful sound wave at the Marincess monster.

Blue Maiden's eyes narrowed. "Marbled Rock's effect activates! When your monster declares an attack, I can discard a "Marincess" monster to prevent my "Marincess" monster's destruction and reduce the damage to 0!"

"That's not going to happen!" Maestra stated. "Thanks to Wagnera's effect, whenever one of my "Melodious" monsters battles your monster, you can't activate their effects until the end of the damage step!"

"What?" Blue Maiden gasped as Luna Diva's sound wave stuck Coral Anemone, destroying it and sending Blue Maiden skidding backwards.

Blue Maiden: 4000→3600 LP

"Luna Diva's effects activate!" Maestra exclaimed, "Each time a Melodious monster I control destroys a monster in battle, I regain 200 Life Points! Lunar Radiance!"

Luna Diva sang a low-sounding note, Maestra becoming enveloped in a silvery shaft of light.

Maestra: 2400→2600 LP

"You're not the only one who can use an effect," Blue Maiden stated. "Since Coral Anemon went to the Graveyard, I can add a "Marincess" card from my Graveyard to my hand. I'll add Sea Star to my hand."

"But you won't be able to it because Wagnera's going to attack your Marbled Rock! Lorelei Wave!"

Wagnera's body was clad in pink light as it moved its sword once more, unleashing a golden lightning bolt towards Marbled Rock, destroying it.

Blue Maiden: 3600→2300 LP

"Yes! Maestra has turned the tables!" Shinki exclaimed as the Maestra Maniacs cheered.

"Luna Diva's effect activates again!" Maestra exclaimed as her Life Points went up.

Maestra: 2600→2800 LP

"I set a card face-down and end my turn, and with it, the effect of Wagnera wears off."

Wagnera the Melodious Maestra ATK 3800→2400

"Are you OK, BlueMaiden?" She asked as the latter started to get back up on her feet.

"I am a fine and nice move. I never expected you would turn the table around so quickly," Blue Maiden answered. "Hope you know that I plan to return the favor."

"I'm very well aware," Maestra said. "Now, show me what you can do!"

"No problem! My turn! Draw!" Blue Maiden drew her card as she looked at it and smiled. "First, I activate the Spell Card: Pot of Greed!" Everyone's eyes widened in surprise upon seeing that card. "It lets me draw two cards from the top of my deck!"

"Pot of Greed is a really old card, you know," Akira commented. "With the arrival of Link Monsters, people managed to find new ways of adding the cards they wanted to their hand, to the point where..."

"Pot of Greed no longer found a place in any deck." Ghost Girl finished for him. Rather, it instead became an antique card.

"Next, I summon Marincess Sea Horse!"

A blonde girl in a blue and gold dress appeared.

Marincess Sea Horse ATK 1400 DEF 1000 LVL: 4

"Appear! The circuit of friendship and bonds! The summoning condition is one Level 4 or lower "Marincess" monster. I set Sea Horse in the Link Arrow!" Her monster entered the left arrow.

"Link the Circuit! I Link Summon! Appear! Link-1! Marincess Sea Angel!"

A girl with platinum blonde hair wearing a white dress emerged from the portal at the Extra Monster Zone.

Marincess Sea Angel ATK 1000 LINK-1 ←

"Sea Angel's effect activates! When she is Link Summoned, I can add a "Marincess" Spell Card from my Deck to my hand. I'll add and then activate the Spell Card: Marincess Surfacing!" The card showed an open clam sitting atop the ocean, with Marincess Coral Anemone standing on and bowing. "This card Special Summons a 'Marincess' monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated. Resurrect, Coral Anemone!"

The orange-haired woman reappeared and giggled.

Marincess Coral Anemone ATK 2000 LINK-2 ←↓

"Shine again, the circuit of friendship and bonds! The summoning conditions are two or more Water monsters. I set Sea Angel and Link-2 Coral Anemone in the Link Arrows!" Her monsters entered the left, bottom, and right arrows.

"I Link Summon! Appear! Link-3! Marincess Marbled Rock!" Another spiky-haired woman in a red dress emerged from the portal at the Extra Monster Zone.

Marincess Marbled Rock ATK 2500 LINK-3 ←↓→

"Since Coral Anemone was sent to the Graveyard, I can add a "Marincess" card from my Graveyard to my hand. I'll add Marincess Wave to my hand. And then, by discarding Sea Star, Marbled Rock gains 800 attack points!"

Marincess Marbled Rock ATK 2500→3300

"Marbled Rock's effect activates! Once per turn, I can add a "Marincess" card in my Graveyard to my hand. I'll add Sea Star to my hand. I then activate Sea Star's effect again to increase Marbled Rock's attack points by 800!"

Marincess Marbled Rock ATK 3300→4100

"I activate the Equip Spell Card: Marincess Trident and equip it to Marbled Rock!" A trident with a blue shaft appeared in Marbled Rock's right hand. The Marincess crest rested at the base, while the head was silver, and the three prongs were gold. Marbled Rock spun the trident in her hand.

"While Marincess Trident is equipped, Marbled Rock cannot be targeted or destroyed by your card effects!"

"Seriously?" Maestra said with shock

"Not only that, but I activate Marincess Wace from my hand, which I can do since I control a Link-3 Monster. Now I use its effect to negate Luna Diva's effects.

Marincess Wave released a stream of water at Luna Diva again, draining it of its effects.

Blue Maiden pointed to the field. "Battle! Marbled Rock attacks Wagnera the Melodious Maestra!"

The woman spun the trident and leaped into the air.

"Marincess Trident's effect activates! When the equipped monster battles, I can banish a "Marincess" monster from my Graveyard to increase that monster's attack points by the banished monster's Link Rating or Level times 300!"

"What?"

"I banish the Link-3 Marbled Rock!"

Marincess Marbled Rock ATK 4100→5000

Marbled Rock's trident struck Wagneras sword, with both weapons clashing before Marbled Rock got the upper hand, destroying Wagnera as Maestra winced from the resulting shockwave.

Maestra: 2800→200 LP

"Since Wagnera is no longer on your field, Luna Diva loses 400 ATK."

Luna Diva the Melodious Choir ATK 2400→2000

"Marincess Trident's final effect!" Blue Maiden declared. "The monster equipped with it can attack again during the Battle Phase!" Maestra gasped. "Marbled Rock attacks Luna Diva! Marincess Submerge!"

Marbled Rock spun her trident, building up momentum. As she did, the trident glowed blue. When she stopped spinning, she brought it down, and the trident fired a stream of water at Luna Diva.

"If this attack connects, Maestra will take over 2000 damage!" The MC stated.

"Maestra!" Yuya yelled.

"My show isn't over just yet! I activate the Trap Card: Rhythm Cure!" The card showed Score the Melodious Diva and Tamtam the Melodious Diva sprinkling a golden shower of flowers over Mozarta the Melodious Maestra. "It allows me to gain life points equal to two "Melodious" monsters I banish from my Graveyard! I banish Wagnera and Elegy to gain 4000 Life Points!"

Silhouettes of both monsters appeared before they vanished, and Maestra gained life points before Marbled Rock's attack struck Luna Diva, destroying it, with the backlash causing Maestra to wince in pain.

Maestra: 200→4200→1200 LP

"Wow. Maestra is tough… I mean, curse her!" Shima commented.

Yuya narrowed his eyes towards the screen as he frowned in worry, "Zuzu doesn't have much life left. I hope she can come back from this."

"Looks like Maestra's struggling a bit." Yuya turned to see the salesman watching the match with a snarky look on his face. Yuya narrowed his eyes before turning back to see how the match would go on.

"Since the battle's over, Trident's effect wears off."

Marincess Marbled Rock ATK 5000→4100

I set a card and end my turn."

Maestra narrowed her eyes at Maestra. "Three Link Summons in one turn. Even when I thought I had the upper hand against you, you managed to turn things around. It seems that if I want to win, I have to go all out! My turn! Draw!

Maestra drew her card as her bracelet shined brightly, so much that Blue Maiden recoiled in its radiance.

Looking down at the card she drew, Maestra smiled widely. "I'm not sure I'm ready to use a card like this, but beggars can't be choosers." She remarked, "Allow me to show you the true power of my Deck."

"Can't wait to see it," Blue Maiden replied.

"I activate the Spell Card: Cantata!" Maestra shouted as the card depicted light erupting from the organ of Melodic Ritual swirling into the center of a Fusion Portal.

Blue Maiden raised an eyebrow. "What does that card do?"

"Cantata first lets me Fusion Summon a Melodious monster by shuffling the materials from my Graveyard into my Deck. I return Luna Diva the Melodious Choir to my Extra Deck, as well as Quartet and Soprano into my Deck and Fusion Summon!"

The spirits of Maestra's three monsters rose, joining hands together as they ascended to the center of a glowing Fusion portal and swirled into the center in a vortex of blue, yellow, and red light. Raising her hands above her head, Maestra chanted:

"Song of justice! Divine Inspiration! Angel's Song! Harmonize your voices together underneath the moon's silver light! Gracefully sing and dance on this radiant stage and awaken your true power! I Fusion Summon! Sing at the height of the moonlit stage! The song of moonlight! Luna Prima the Melodious Choir!"

Floating down from the portal was the silhouette of a woman, composed completely of cyan energy, as she opened her eyes, revealing to be golden, which briefly shined with white light. She wore a white silk dress, with cyan ribbons wrapped around her forearms, covered with the same moon patterns, held in place by a moon-flower-shaped bracelet. A gold and silver tiara was placed gently on her forehead with a deep blue gemstone in the center surrounded by two crescent moons. Her hair, colored black as the night sky with small deep blue and silver streaks, was tied into a braid. She had a pair of elegant, sparkling silver crescent-shaped wings with cyan patterns on her back. Bowing before an invisible audience, she belted a high operatic note as she landed beside Maestra.

Luna Prima the Melodious Choir ATK 2800 DEF 2200 LVL: 8

"Cantata's additional effect!" Maestra continued, not missing a beat. "After I Fusion Summon with this card, I immediately afterward Ritual Summon a Ritual Monster from my Deck with a Level equal to or less than the total Levels of the monsters I shuffled into my Deck!"

"Both Quartet and Soprano were Level 4," Blue MaideL summarized. "Together, that's a total of eight. In other words, you're Ritual Summoning a Level 8 or lower."

"Bingo!" Maestra exclaimed as the set-up from Melodic Ritual reappeared, the spirits of her monsters being absorbed into the instrument as it began playing before erupting with light.

"Paganist artist, share your soul and work with the heavenly master that your music may bring about rebirth and renewal! I Ritual Summon! Let the heavens ring with your triumphant song! Stravinska the Melodious Maestra!"

Maestra's new monster jumped onto the field in an explosion of light, heavily stomping on the ground. Wearing an iron armor top, helmet, and flower-like skirt that went down to her knees. Her sunny-blonde hair was braided with white flowers and green leaves, with strands of healthy green vines wrapping around her bare arms, midriff, calves, and feet. A pair of crimson-and-gold angel wings were on her back, feathers decorated with musical notes. In her hand, she held an immense staff made of tree roots, vines, and blooming flowers arranged into a lush wreath.

Stravinska the Melodious Maestra ATK 2200 DEF 1900 LVL: 6

"Stravinska's effect activates!" Maestra declared. "When she's Special Summoned, I can draw one card for every Special Summoned monster on the field! Since there are three monsters, I can draw three cards!"

"Not only was she able to summon two powerful monsters, but she also refilled her hand as well," Akira said.

"That Maestra sure is something," Ghost Girl added.

Maestra drew and played one of the cards. "It's here!"

"I activate the Equip Spell Card: Melodious Crescendo and equip it to Luna Prima!" The card showed Aria the Melodious Diva, Score the Melodious Diva, and Shopina the Melodious Maestra singing into a microphone on a stage. "The monster equipped with Melodious Crescendo gains 500 attack points!"

Luna Prima the Melodious Choir ATK 2800→3300

"Battle! Luna Prima, attack Marincess Marbled Rock!"

"Have you forgotten that I can use Marbled Rock's effect to save it from being destroyed as well protecting me from damage?" Maestra asked.

"I didn't forget," Maestra replied. "Because thanks to Stravinska's second effect, you can't activate any effects in response to one of my "Melodious" monster's attack or effect."

"What?"

"Not only that, but I'm activating the Quick-Play Spell Card: Melodious Battle Conductor from my hand!" The card depicted Mozarta the Melodious Maestra composing a symphony. "If I control a "Melodious Maestra" or "Melodious Choir" monster, then during the Battle Phase, I can activate this card to choose from one of three effects! I choose to activate the first effect of this card, increasing Luna Prima's ATK by 1000 while also making it so that each time Stravinska destroys a monster by battle, she can destroy one card my opponent controls!"

In Luna prima's hand, a glittering golden conductor baton appeared before, glowing with intense light as her ATK increased.

Luna Prima the Melodious Choir ATK 3300→4300

"Continue your attack, Luna Prima! Lunar Choir!"

Rising into the air, Luna Prima began glowing with soft moonlight before singing a clear, high-pitched note, a moonbeam of energy blasting from her mouth and flying straight into Marbled Rock, destroying it.

Blue Maiden: 2300→2100 LP

"The effect of Melodious Crescendo activates! When the equipped monster destroys your monster in battle, I can destroy a Spell or Trap Card you control! I destroy your set card!"

Luna Prima let out another wave of energy.

"Not so fast! I activate my Trap Card: Marincess Snow!" Blue Maiden declared. "When my "Marincess'" Link Monster is destroyed, I can Special Summon a "Marincess" Link Monster with a lower Link Rating from my Extra Deck and treat it as a Link Summon!"

"What?" Maestra gasped.

"Appear! Link-2! Marincess Crystal Heart!"

A heart made of blue crystals appeared in the right Extra Monster Zone, circled by white fog attached to a feminine face.

Marincess Crystal Heart ATK 0 LINK-2 ↙↘

Maestra blinked. "You summon a Link Monster with 0 attack points?"

"Since Marincess Snow's effect summoned crystal Heart, it is unaffected by your card effects!"

"That means I can't use Battle Conductor'ss effect," Maestra realized. "But even so, I can still attack I don't know what you're planning, but I'll find out what it is," Maestra stated. "Stravinska, attack your Crystal Heart!"

Pointing her conductor baton at Blue Maideni's monster, Stravinska unleashed a blast of golden light from the tip of the baton at the Marincess Link Monster.

"Crystal Heart's effect activates! When it is attacked, I can send a 'Marincess' monster from my hand to the Graveyard to prevent its destruction and make the battle damage become 0!"

Blue Maiden tapped one of her cards and made it disintegrate. The golden was then repelled by a band of water appearing around Crystal Heart.

"You may have stopped one attack, but thanks to Luna Prima's effect, she can attack twice. Go, Lunar Choir!"

Once again, Luna Prima glowed with soft moonlight before singing a clear, high-pitched note, a moonbeam of energy blasting from her mouth and flying straight into Crystal Heart.

"I banish Stream Flux from my Graveyard to activate its effect!" Blue Maiden declared. "I target my Crystal Heart, and for every Link it has, I get to add a "Marincess" to my hand."

Two cards emerged out from Blue Maiden's Graveyard

"I choose to return Blue Tang and Sea Horse to my hand. And then, by discarding Sea Horse, Crystal Heart isn't destroyed, and I take no damage!

Luna Prima's sound wave was also repelled by the band of water surrounding Crystal Heart.

"Since my Battle Phase is over, Battle Conductor's effect wears off."

Luna Prima the Melodious Choir ATK 4300→3300

"Next, I activate the Spell Card: Singer's Anchor!" The card depicted Bloom Diva and Bloom Prima singing together in perfect harmony. "Since I have at least two "Melodious" monsters on my field, I draw two cards!" Maestra drew two more cards from her deck as a result.

"I set two cards face-down and end my turn."

Blue Maiden smiled. "I have to admit. I'm having more fun than I thought I would today. That said… since you decided to go all out, it's only right for me to do the same!"

"Oh? Well, in that case, I would love to the true power of your "Marincess" Deck."

"Oh, I'll show you right now! My turn! Draw!" Blue Maiden looked at her card and smiled. With this… yes!"

"Before you make a move, I activate my Trap Card!" Maestra declared.

"Trap Card?" Blue Maiden repeated, his eyes widening with surprise.

"Musical Mayhem!" Maestra explained. "This card deals you 800 points of damage for each "Melodious" monster I control!"

"What?" Blue Maiden said, his eyes widening even further.

"Since you're planning to turn things around this turn, I might as well activate this while they're still here!" Maestra said. "I control two "Melodious" monsters, so you take 1600 points of damage!"

An aurora appeared in the sky that shot down a blast of green lightning, which struck Blue Maiden. She screamed in pain from the Trap Card's effect.

Blue Maiden: 2100→500 LP

The MC held up his mike as he smiled, "Maestra used her trap to lower Blue Maiden's Life Pints to a measly 500!"

As the crowd got more hyped, Shima, who was watching from a cafe, pumped his fist, "Wow! This duel is getting more intense by the minute!" Shinki stood up beside him, "Yeah, this is a great fight!" They both smirked at each other as they were both getting hyped up as well.

"No! Unacceptable! Blue Maiden can't lose to the lucky newbie!' The salesman yelled!

Yuya chuckled after seeing his expression before turning back to the screen. "I feel like Zuzu's evolved again in this duel…."

"She sure has," A voice nearby Yuya said, revealing it to be Yuto's.

"Hey, Yuto. You enjoying Zuzu's duel?"

"Of course. I've may not of known Zuzu long, but by how things look right now, I can tell she's come a very long way to become the duelist she is now."

"You said it, my friend."

Back at the duel…

After shaking the pain off from Maestra's trap, Blue Maiden stood back up.

Gongenzaka nodded while holding out a fist, "Yeah, and Sawatari is doing pretty well." Ruri nodded as she smiled, "They both look like they're having fun." Rin nodded as well, "I think it is getting to us as well." Mikleo stared at the field for a moment before letting out a small and amused smile, "Well, who would've thought that guy has gotten this stronger."

"I have to say, I didn't expect that, but that just makes me even more pumped to win!" Blue Maiden exclaimed. Continuing from where I left on, I summon Marincess Blue Tang!"

The girl with long blue hair in a blue vest reappeared.

Marincess Blue Tang ATK 1500 DEF 1200 LVL: 4

"Blue Tang's effect activates! Since she was summoned, I can send Marincess Crown Tail from my Deck to the Graveyard." Blue Maiden raised her hand. "Shine, the circuit of friendship and bonds! The summoning condition is one Level 4 or lower 'Marincess' monster. I set Blue Tang in the Link Arrow!" The woman entered the bottom arrow.

"Link the Circuit! I Link Summon! Appear! Link-1! Marincess Sea Angel!"

A girl in a white dress with long white hair emerged from the portal at Crystal Heart's bottom-left Link Marker.

Marincess Sea Angel ATK 1000 LINK-1 ←

"Sea Angel's effect activates! When it's Link Summoned, I can add a "Marincess" Spell Card from my Deck to my hand. I'll add Marincess Battle Ocean to my hand." Blue Maiden took the card and then played it. ''Plus, since I used Blue Tang to Link Summon, I can excavate the top 3 cards of my Deck, add a "Marincess" card among those cards and shuffle the rest back to my deck.''

She pulls out her top three cards and eyes them. She picks one of them and returns the rest. "I now activate the Field Spell Card: Marincess Battle Ocean! This card increases my "Marincess" monsters attack points by 200!"

Marincess Crystal Heart ATK 0→200

Marincess Sea Angel ATK 1000→1200

"And since I control two or more "Marincess" Link Monsters, I can Special Summon Marincess Mandarin from the Graveyard!"

A pink-haired girl appeared in an orange robe over a blue skirt at Sea Angel's left Link Marker in Defense Position.

Marincess Mandarin ATK 100→300 DEF 100 LVL: 1

"Shine again, the circuit of friendship and bonds! The summoning conditions are two or more Water monsters, including Marincess Crystal Heart. I set Mandarin, Sea Angel, and Link-2 Crystal Heart in the Link Markers!" Blue Maiden's monsters entered the left, right, bottom-left, and bottom-right arrows.

"I Link Summon! Appear! Link-4! Marincess Wonder Heart!"

A pale-skinned woman emerged from the portal at the right Extra Monster Zone. She wore a blue dress that exposed her chest, where Crystal Heart sat. A gold and dark blue crown sat atop her head.

Marincess Wonder Heart ATK 2400→2600 LINK-4 ←↙↘→

"A Link 4 Marincess!" Maestra gasped.

Blue Maiden stares at Wonder Heart, oddly smiling as she could see Aqua in her. She gazes at Maestra and informs her determined. "Battle Ocean's effect! Any "Marincess" Link Monster that is Link Summoned using Crystal Heart is unaffected by your card effects!"

"What?"

"Not only that, Battle Ocean's second effect activates Since a "Marincess'" Link Monster was Special Summoned to the Extra Monster Zone, I can equip up to three "Marincess" Link Monsters with different Link Ratings from my Graveyard to that monster!"

"What? Equip?"

"I equip Coral Anemone and Marbled Rock to Wonder Heart!" Spectral images of the two female monsters appeared before disappearing into Wonder Heart, making her glow blue. "While Battle Ocean is on the field, monsters equipped with 'Marincess' Link Monsters gain 300 attack points for each of the equipped monsters' Link Markers!"

"Blue Slug us Link-1, Coral Anemone is Link-2, and Marbled Rock is Link-3. So, Wonder Heart gains 1800 attack points."

Marincess Wonder ATK 2600→4400

I activate the effect of Marincess Pascalus in my Graveyard! I banish it to add a 'Marincess' Spell or Trap Card from my Graveyard to my hand. I'll add Marincess Trident to my hand." She took the card, then played it. "I activate the Equip Spell Card: Marincess Trident and equip it onto Wonder Heart!"

A trident with a blue shaft, silver head, and golden prongs materialized in Wonder Heart's left hand. "While Marincess Trident is equipped, Wonder Heart cannot be targeted or destroyed by your card effects!"

"Now it's immune to all my cards," Maestra muttered.

Blue Maiden gestured to the field. "Battle! Wonder Heart attacks your Stravinska!"

A dark blue longsword formed in Wonder Heart's right hand, which it swung back.

Maestra grit her teeth and gestures to her field. "I activate the Trap Card: Rallentando!" The card showed Elegy and the Melodious Diva, sitting on a chair between the letters "r" and "a" and "l" and "l," all written in blue cursive. "By Tributing a "Melodious" monster, all battle damage I take for the rest of the turn is reduced by that monster's original attack points. I Tribute Luna Prima and reduce the battle damage by her 2800 attack points!" The woman in the cyan, purple, and white dress disintegrated.

The woman lunged forward with her trident. The prongs impaled Stravinska, destroying it, but a blue barrier formed around Maestra, shielding her from damage.

"Don't forget that Marincess Trident allows Wonder Heart to attack twice!" Blue Maiden stated. "Wonder Heart, attack Maestra directly!"

Wonder Heart crossed her sword and trident before swinging the sword.

"I activate Rallentando's second effect from my Graveyard! By banishing it and Sonata from my Graveyard, I can reduce the battle damage from this attack as well all other attacks to 0!"

A blue barrier formed around Maestra once again as it protected her from Wonder Heart's attack.

"Looks like you were able to survive another turn, but I feel like I should even things up. I activate the Spell Card: Aria from Beyond and use its effect to copy the effect of my banished Stream Flux to deal you 200 points of damage for every Link Wonder Heart has."

"Wonder Heart is Link 4," Maestra stated.

"Exactly! So you take 800 damage!"

Four streams of water erupted from the card, washing over Maestra and sending her skidding backwards.

Maestra: 1200→400 LP

"Maestra!" Yuya yelled.

"Well, well, well. Looks like your favorite Charisma Duelist is now at a disadvantage while Blue Maiden now holds the advantage," The salesman pointed out.

"Just you wait. Maestra will turn this duel around on her next turn!

"Sure she will. And you'll get the necklace for your friend and his brother. Oh wait, you won't!

"Oh yes, I will! You're going to end up eating those words!" Yuya stated as he turned back to watch Zuzu's duel.

Back at the duel…

Both sides of the fan war were cheering, but they weren't cheering for one side or another. Instead, they were cheering for how exciting the duel was, and everyone was rather interested in that rather than which one was better over the other.

It's working. The plan is working. Blue Maiden thought to herself before she turned her attention to the duel. "Ladies and gentlemen!" She began saying to the spectators. "What do you all think of the duel so far?"

"YEAH!" The crowds cheered back.

"My opponent, Maestra, only has 400 Life Points left, but do you want her to lose here?" She asked.

"Noooo!" They replied.

"What is she saying?" Maestra wondered.

"Come on, everyone! Let's all cheer out to her and make this duel even more fun!" Blue Angel exclaimed.

"YEAAAAAHHH!" The crowds went wild.

"I see! I get it now!" Maestra got back up and put on a smile.

"Blue Maiden, I am not done yet! This is only the beginning!" Maestra stated.

"And with my help, you're sure to win," A voice said, revealing it to be Lulu's.

"Lulu?" Zuzu muttered.

"Take this. I'm sure it'll help bring you victory."

Lulu held out her hand as a golden orb of light flew towards Zuzu, who grabbed it.

"Thanks, Lulu.

"No problem. Now go on and win this duel!"

"Right!" Maestra nodded at Lulu, who disappeared as she returned to her duel.

"It's time for me to put on a show that this crowd will never forget!' Maestra exclaimed.

"That's what I like to hear, Maestra," she replied with a grin. "Now, give me everything you got!"

"I will! My turn! I draw!" Maestra drew her card excitedly yet confidently.

Slowly turning the card around, Maestra's eyes widened when she saw what it was.

"The fun has just begun!" Maestra shouted, causing them to react crazily in response. " I activate the Spell Card: Card of Reversal! Since I have no other cards on the field or in my hand, I can draw a card for each card you own on the field, Blue Maiden! That's six!"

Maestra then drew out her six-card hand.

"So, did you get the cards you wanted?" Blue Maiden asked with a smirk.

"Indeed I did, and they'll be the key to my victory," she answered. First, I summon Ode the Melodious Diva from my hand!"

A female monster clad in a dress with a violet flower motif and holding a small microphone appeared on Yuzu's field.

"Next, I activate the Spell Card: Polymerization." Maestra continued. "Through its effect, I will use Ode, which as treated as two materials for the Fusion Summon of a "Melodious" Monster while she's on the field, along with Rondo the Melodious Songstress in my hand as materials to Fusion Summon!"

As Ode swirled inside a multi-colored vortex alongside a ghostly copy of itself and a female monster clad in a vermillion dress reminiscent of a flower with a single wing extending from its back, Maestra chanted.

"Composer of epic tales! Vivacious Melody! By the guidance of the baton, assemble your power!" She brought her hands together. "I Fusion Summon! Now on stage, the song of passion! Bloom Prima the Melodious Choir!"

A pale blue-haired girl in a yellow dress with two flowers on her shoulders emerged from the vortex in Attack Position.

Bloom Prima the Melodious Choir ATK 1900 DEF 2000 LVL: 7

"Maestra performed a Fusion Summon!" The MC cheered, as did the audience. In the store, Yuya couldn't resist smiling while the salesman frowned.

"When Bloom Prima is Fusion Summoned," Yuzu continued, "she gains 300 attack points for each of its Fusion Materials. I fused two monsters, so she gains 600 attack points!"

Bloom Prima the Melodious Choir ATK 1900→2500

"And since Rondo was used to Fusion Summon a "Melodious" Fusion Monster, I can draw cards from my Deck equal to the number of Fusion Materials used for that Fusion Summon, in this case, two." Maestra declared.

Blue Maiden smirked. "Not bad. Not bad. A Fusion Summon and new cards. As expected, you're not making this easy, Maestra."

"It's about to get even more difficult! I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card: Celestial Transformation and use its effect to Special Summon a Fairy monster from my hand by halving its attack points. Come on out, Shopina the Melodious Maestra!"

A purple-skinned woman with solid red eyes appeared. She had mint green hair and wore a pouf dress of varying shades of purple.

Shopina the Melodious Maestra ATK 2300→1150 DEF 1700 LVL: 7

"You may have brought out two high-level monsters, but they aren't strong enough to beat my Wonder Heart," Blue Maiden pointed out.

"Who said I was going to use them against your Wonder Heart?" Maestra rhetorically asked, confusing Blue Maiden.

"So what, are you planning of Fusion Summoning another monster by using those two?"

"Nope. Something even better. Maestra brought her hands in front of her. "I overlay the Level 7 Shopina and Bloom Prima!" She then brought her Duel Disk in front of her face and raised it above her head as it released a burst of pink energy that struck the sky. The field changed into outer space from where the bolt struck, streams of pink energy floating in the air.

"What the-?" Blue Maestra blinked as he looked around.

"No. This…" The salesman said in fear.

"Here it comes," Yuya whispered.

"With these two monsters, I build the Overlay Network!" Maestra declared. A digital blue cross with four red dots in its corners came below her monsters, which dissolved into pink particles. The particles flowed into two of the red dots, making a red circle appear beneath the cross. The ends of the cross fired blue beams into the sky, converging on a point and creating a galaxy that exploded with energy.

"Serene angel flying through the music-filled air with a song of delight in your heart spread your elegant wings now and touch the mind and heart of all who gaze upon you with your divine inspiration! I Xyz Summon! Take your place on stage now, the song of salvation! Rank 7! Wing Diva the Melodious Choir!"

In a storm of feathers, Maestra's new Xyz Monster unfurled her black-and-white wings while she twirled through the hair, gems in her hairnet and dress glimmering in the light of the stage as she sang a beautiful aria.

Wing Diva the Melodious Choir ATK 2000 DEF 1000 RNK: 7 OU: 2

"Maestra summoned an Xyz Monster! She's following in the footsteps of Ringmaster and Gore! This duel truly is incredible!"

All eyes were upon Wing Diva as she descended from high above the stage, steadily lowering herself with each wing flap until she hovered just above Maestra.

Lulu appeared next to Zuzu with a smile on her face. "Not bad for your first Xyz Summon," she praised.

"Well, I wouldn't have it if it weren't for you," Zuzu replied

"So, that's Zuzu's Ace," Yuya remarked, amazed that Yuzu had been able to drag the duel out for so long successfully. "It represents her bond with Lulu, doesn't it, Yuto?" Yuya asked.

"Seems so. It has the characteristics of Zuzu's Melodious monsters and Lulu's Lryilusc's." Yuto answered.

Blue Maiden couldn't but stare in surprise. She hadn't expected this. "Xyz Summon…" A smile then formed on her face laughing. "Magnificent! Fusion Summoning, Ritual Summoning, and now Xyz Summoning! I can't believe you've mastered three different summoning methods! You truly are a worthy opponent!"

"Thank you, Blue Maiden," Maestra replied somewhat solemnly before her eyes lightened. "But this isn't the time for compliments. I activate the Spell Card: Monster Reborn! With this, I Special Summon Luna Prima back from my Graveyard!" The jutte-wielding monster reappeared in Attack Position.

The woman in the cyan, purple, and white dress reappeared.

Luna Prima the Melodious Choir ATK 2800 DEF 2200 LVL: 8

"I activate the Spell Card: Gift of the Martyr!" Maestra said, surprising Blue Maiden. "With this card, I can Tribute one monster I control and increase the attack points of another monster I control by the Tributed monster's attack points. I Tribute Luna Prima to grant its attack points to Wing Diva!"

Luna Prima disintegrated as Wing Diva sang and glowed yellow from its increased power.

Wing Diva the Melodious Choir ATK 2000→4800

"Yes!" Yuya cheered. "Now Wing Diva's strong enough to destroy Wonder Heart!"

"But not enough for her to win," The salesman pointed out.

"I applaud you for making your monster stronger, but if it can't reduce my Life Points to 0, then it's sad to say it was all for nothing," Blue Maiden stated.

"Or was it? I activate the Continous Spell Card: Fortissimo! It lets me increase the attack points of one "Melodious" monster by 800 until my next Standby Phase," Maestra explained, with a friendly smile on her face. "I target Wing Diva for Fortissimo's effect!"

Wing Diva's dress started shining and glittering as her attack points increased.

Wing Diva the Melodious Choir ATK 4800→5600

"She's beautiful," Shima said, then smiling.

"And more importantly, strong enough to destroy Wonder Heart and beat Blue Maiden," Shinki added.

"So, Blue Maiden, it looks like I have the advantage now. What do you have to say to that?" Maestra asked.

"I say that I'll activate Marincess Crown Tail's effect!" Blue Maiden replied.

"It's effect?"

"That's right! By banishing her from my Graveyard, for every Link Arrow that the "Marincesses" in my Graveyard has, I can reduce the battle damage I take by 1000 points.

"The "Marincesses" in her Graveyard have a total Link of 4...," Maestra said.

"So even if we deal 4000 points or less of battle damage, she won't lose a single Life Point," Lulu finished for her.

"But with the difference between Wing Diva's and Wonder heart's ATK is only 1200," Yuya stated.

"Which isn't enough for her to win," The salesman said as he started laughing.

Yuya ignored him as he returned his focus towards the duel. "Zuzu…"

"I know I'm cautious by preventing 4000 points of battle damage, but against a duelist like you, being prepared for anything is important," Blue Maiden stated. "On my next turn, all I have to do is attack with my Wonder Heart and win. Guess I'll end up being the best female Charisma Duelist in LINK VRAINS."

"Or so you think?" Maestra said. "I activate Wing Diva's effect! Wing Diva lets me Special Summon a "Melodious" monster from my hand or Graveyard by detaching one Overlay Unit. With this effect, I summon Luna Prima the Melodious Choir!"

Wing Diva absorbed an overlay unit into her chest before singing a low-pitched note. Luna Diva reappeared, belting out a deep operatic note before standing alongside Wing Diva, the two monsters clasping their hands together.

Wing Diva the Melodious Choir OU: 2→1

Luna Diva the Melodious Choir ATK 2000 DEF 2000 LVL: 6

"Even if you try to use Luna Diva's effect, thanks to Crown Tail, I won't take any damage that isn't over 4000," Blue Maiden pointed out.

"Who said I brought back Luna Diva only to use her effect?" Maestra rhetorically asked.

Wing Diva's other effect activates!" Maestra declared, "Every time a Melodious monster is Special Summoned, I can inflict 500 damage to my opponent!"

"But that's all the Life Points l have left, and I can't use Crown Tail's effect to stop it since it only works on battle damage."

"That's exactly what it means! Go, Elegant Surge!"

The near angelic monster brought her hands to her diaphragm and began singing a sustained, high-pitched note. A sphere of light and music notes formed just in front of her mouth before she flapped her wings, her singing voice now doubled in volume, and sent the orb flying towards Blue Maiden. It burst into an explosion of notes that knocking her off her feet.

Blue Maiden: 500→0 LP

"And we have a winner! Maestra is victorious!" The MC shouted out excitedly.

Maestra walked over to Blue Maiden and offered her hand.

"Thank you, Blue Maiden, for the duel. It was tough, but also fun! Let's do it again sometimes," she said, helping Blue Maiden up.

"Of course. Thank you, too," Blue Maiden as they shook hands.

The spectators and people watching from the real world applauded the two duelists. It seemed like the two sides agreed that no matter who was better, what's most important was the enjoyment of the duel itself. The two of them then logged out.

Meanwhile, at the Den City Shopping District...

"Looks like Maestra won her duel after all," Yuya said. Guess we'll be getting that necklace after all.

The salesman grunted in disappointment after seeing Blue Maiden lose. "I'll go ring it up."

"Hope that guy learned his lesson to judge a duelist by their skills and not just one duel."

Yuya turned around to see the voice belonging to Zuzu.

"Hey, you're back," he said. "How was the duel?"

"It was a lot of fun. And I hope that after this, everyone will pin us against other duelists.

"I'm sure they well," Yuya replied. "Now, let's go and purchase that gift for Kolter.

The two teens then headed over to the check-out counter and purchased the necklace as they left the shopping center and headed home.

And that's Chapter 14, everybody. As you know, bold cards are OC's. Credit to Dvdryms for letting me use his Melodious Cards. As always, favorite follow and review, and don't be afraid to send me a PM.

Preview for the next three chapters.

15: Yuya/Yuri vs. The Shephard

16: Yuya vs. Soulburner

17: Declan vs. Kurai Okabe: An old rival of his and an OC created and credited by DivadX