Here we are again, everyone! This chapter sure took longer to finish than expected... Sorry about that, I got caught up in IRL matters and this chapter's Duel proved to be a challenge at certain parts, but I'm very happy with the end result. I'm also happy to announce the story's first chapter has over 25000 views! Thank you all for your amazing support!

Thanks to everyone who reviewed the last chapter!

- In response to SoulMatter's review:

"In this version, Daphne first appeared in Chapter 5, A God's Glorious Return."

- In response to DSpaceZ's review:

"Right, fixed it! Thanks for pointing that out. I was paying extra attention to that effect, but I still managed to make a mistake with it."

- In response to LucasVAMP's review:

"Nah, I don't think your request was selfish at all. In fact, thanks for your suggestion! If I ever find myself in need of any new Mythorrors or support cards for them, if possible, I'll add them to the mix."

[Using Anime/Manga Effects.]

Hashima Daphne's POV

"That's the so-called entrance to Hell?"

I thought out loud, narrowing my eyes at the elevator the two staff members were guiding me to. One of them began listing the rules of that place, but I paid him no mind. Instead, my eyes continued to wander left and right, carefully taking in every detail of my surroundings.

Hm... Honestly, I expected more from the entrance to the underground garbage disposal facility, where people were forced to work against their own will. Of course, there were cameras and alarms on both sides of this long passageway, but it left much to be desired. The two guiding me were full of openings, too. The surveillance wasn't tight enough to force me to dismiss the idea of knocking out these two gorillas and making a run for it.

The question was, what would I do then? As a fugitive, I won't be able to show my face on the streets...no, actually, I still could. Just not to everyone.

In this city where Dueling held such importance, I probably impressed many with my skills, and I would be even more famous if it turns out I escaped from the underground. Knowing the entrance to it and its general layout would help me solidify my fame. If I find a group of Commons who were willing to raid this place with me, I could also rescue the imprisoned Lancers.

I sighed internally as another thought suddenly crossed my mind. I once hunted down Defectors and Xyz Remnants, and now I was about to become a fugitive myself. What goes around comes around, huh? My level of patheticness was simply amusing at this point.

"Freeze!" a voice exclaimed from behind us, prompting our heads to turn in unison. What's the meaning of this? Why was a trio of Security officers walking up to us?

"Oi, I didn't hear anything about this." a gorilla scowled. "What business do you have here?"

"Watch who you're talking to. This is Security!" I rolled my eyes at the obvious remark of a different officer. "Hashima Daphne will be put in the custody of Security. This is a direct order from Chief Roget of the Security Bureau. Hand her over at once!"

"What?" this time, my eyes widened. Damn that Jean Michel Roget...! So this was his plan? Apprehend me at the doors of Hell where no one would notice and he could use any underhanded tactic he desired? He blew his cover with this move, but if he captures me, would it even matter?

Why would he send subordinates to subdue me? It wasn't to secure a hostage; he would've gone after weaker Lancers for that, and a hostage with combat experience like me could backfire on him. He needed me for another reason...an important one.

How did I catch his attention? I didn't say anything noteworthy...but I Dueled, and my battle style heavily relied on Contact Fusion, a method that originates from the Fusion Dimension and so far hasn't been used by the other ones. Who wouldn't want to interrogate someone from their homeland out of fear of Academia?

That confirmed it for good: Jean Michel Roget was a Defector.

I flexed my fingers, getting ready to force my way out of here.

"Chief Roget must be in a good mood today to pull a stunt such as this."

Ugh, who was it now—Wait. "You're..." I knew this newcomer. "Valkyrie, was it?"

"Yes." the pink-haired woman confirmed my words, coming to a stop a few meters behind the Security officers with her arms crossed behind her back. She then addressed the baffled officers with an exasperated tone. "Losers in the Friendship Cup are sent to the underground. Those are the rules. Not even the Security Bureau is allowed to break them, otherwise, how can we expect to maintain order here?"

It hasn't been maintained properly so far, though... "B-But!" the third officer finally spoke up. "Security—"

"Did you not hear me, sir?" the dim lighting of the passageway cast an eerie shadow on Valkyrie's face when she smiled, instantly silencing the fool. "Those are the rules. You can't apprehend Hashima Daphne, and that's final. Or, perhaps, you're trying to pick a fight with me and subsequently the Executive Council?"

He yelped, taking a step back. "N-No, ma'am!"

"Then you three are dismissed." they reluctantly did as they were told. The Executive Council called the shots in the City, yes, but these people also followed her orders because they genuinely feared her. Just how strong was this Valkyrie? "Ah, stop that, Hashima. You won't get past me."

I frowned internally. How...did she realize my plan? I was covering all my openings and tell-tale signs! A bluff? Or were my intentions that simple for her to predict? In any case, I didn't have a choice. This woman had no openings; as much as it annoyed me to admit it, I had to listen to her. I scoffed, "You sound fixed on sending me to down there."

"The underground isn't Roget's turf," Valkyrie explained. "You will be safe down there, with your comrades." she suddenly frowned, as if remembering just where I was about to go, "Or as safe as you could be for now. Roget's getting impatient. It won't be long until he makes his big move."

"What big move?" I raised an eyebrow, to which she smiled anew. Humph, she called him impatient, but her expression was a clear sign she was just that herself. "You—and surely the Executive Council as well—appear to have a hidden agenda, I see."

"Who knows? But being wary of us is definitely not a bad move on your part." was all she said back. She then addressed the two staff members, snapping them out of their stupor. "I apologize for Security's rudeness. Proceed with what you were previously doing."

She didn't have to repeat herself. "Y-Yes!" they took me by the arms and carried me into the elevator, leaving me to silently glare at Valkyrie's departing back as we descended into the underground facility.

Turn 21:

King's Gambit

Sakushi Vincent's POV

"He really did it... Antinomy performed an Accel Synchro Summon!"

I yelled in astonishment, standing on my bed and sporting a dumb smile. Truth the bold, when Crow Synchro Summoned using three Synchro Monsters in his Duel against Gongenzaka but didn't call it an Accel Synchro Summon, part of me began doubting Antinomy had access to Clear Mind, a valid suspicion considering the Moment concept wasn't present in this series.

Turned out, there was no reason to panic. Not only did Antinomy have access to his iconic technique, but he also got a new Accel Synchro Monster!

"What a summoning procedure...!" even the likes of Demiurge forgot to maintain his composure and allowed for genuine interest to leak into his voice, though he quickly pulled himself together and snorted. "It's obvious now why the fish-using mongrel wasn't capable of scoring a single win against this guy."

"It may not have lasted long, but he rode on the wall! On the wall!" Fey repeated the last part for emphasis, overly excited like a handful of my other children. "He even vanished! Do you think he used magic!?"

Well...um...thinking about it, could Clear Mind be considered magic? "There's a chance he did, but I doubt he'd refer to it as such." Ereshkigal remarked before I would start an internal debate with myself. "He's a man of science, after all."

That he was. "Agreed." Hevelius said. "If his personality doesn't scream it already, his battle style certainly does. He's quite the pragmatic and cautious fighter."

You could say that again. He dominated this entire Duel by only using his Level 5 Synchros and his knowledge on Daphne's deck, and now that he revealed his true strength, as much as it pained me to admit it, I couldn't imagine my fellow Lancer winning. Antinomy was crazy strong, it felt almost unreal... Maybe if he hadn't known her deck so well, Daphne would've had better chances at coming out on top.

And now that I mentioned it, how did he know her deck so well? These two have never met face-to-face before, but the way Antinomy countered her moves gave the idea he's seen all of her Duels up to this day! Their team had a spy working at Academia or something? I doubt they had a secret camera following her around—Wait...

I warily glanced at my Duel Disk. What if...that secret camera was me? After all, they didn't need to know her entire backstory, only her Duels were enough. We fought more than once too, and I didn't exactly give her an easy time during both rounds, forcing her to reveal a lot of her arsenal.

I still didn't know who brought me to this universe, along with giving me this Duel Disk. For all I knew, the ones responsible for that might very well be Antinomy and his teammates! Reiji had his men thoroughly analyze my Duel Disk when I handed it to him before coming here, and while it's true they were searching for a so-called Dark Draw program, they would've surely noticed it was recording through a hidden program. That required some expert programming skills...which Antinomy had.

"At least he didn't resort to using his dragon..." I blinked twice, Xolotl's words snapping me out of my thoughts, and I scowled upon processing what he's said.

Poor child, he almost suffered a heart attack when the Crimson Dragon briefly appeared during Ruddy Rose Dragon's summon, and it took me and a few other children more than a minute to reassure him everything was alright. When Antinomy left for the Duel and the presence of all Signer Dragons in the building vanished, Xolotl mentally prepared himself for the worse, but I was glad he hadn't had to go through that again. Now we knew for sure Crow didn't have Black-Winged Dragon, though...and that Antinomy had a Signer Dragon on his person.

"She lacked the strength to force him to use it, that's all." Sidonia sneered once the Duel ended in Daphne's defeat. It was a frustrating outcome, to put it mildly, considering all the effort she put into it and that she'll be sent to the underground, but at least she looked...contented when she shook hands with Antinomy, an action which made me smile.

The following Duel featured Damon and Sergey. At first, I thought it was just a Duel of no importance between side characters—and it definitely was!—but the Duelist Crusher's demeanor threw me off. Damon kept saying his fangs got pulled out after he was caught by Security, but judging from his bored expression, I'd guess he was simply dissatisfied by his foe and didn't see any reason to fight seriously.

Sergey crawled out of a pinch and swiftly won the Duel, ironically wielding a deck whose lore was connected to both Masumi's Gem-Knights and Daphne's Ritual Beasts! Although, if memory served me right, it didn't possess a single Extra Deck Monster, much less a Tuner, in fact, Sergey didn't perform any Synchro Summons this Duel, so I should expect some new support to be revealed when he'll fight with his all.

Following them, today's final Duel belonged to Shun and Dennis, quite the ominous matchup. Melissa proclaimed their fight may just be a match worthy of wrapping up the first round, and...yeah, I agreed with her for obvious reasons, but not positive ones. And it appeared my fears weren't unwarranted because this Duel turned out to be a complete redo of Shun vs. Sora.

Right from the get-go, you could tell they won't get along due to their contrasting personalities, and on top of it, Shun kept vowing he'll expose Dennis's true colors. Did he think of himself as a spy-buster or something? In any case, the Performage user wasn't pulling any punches just because they were comrades, and did his best to amaze the crowd while Shun continued to fight his usual way.

Everything changed the moment Trapeze Magician was destroyed and Dennis revealed Polymerization. Angered by the fate of his beloved ace and seeing there was no reason to maintain a façade, Dennis proceeded to summon Chaos Ancient Gear Giant, a Fusion Monster whose size was on par with my Titans and was used to obliterate Heartland, thus exposing himself as a spy.

"Oho, so he was evil like the candy-loving boy!" Adaro exclaimed, though I didn't share his happiness at finding out his premonition was discovered to be correct.

"Academia sure loves to take precautions." Ixtab noted with a huff. "Dennis, Serena, and Daphne attended the same school, but the latter two didn't recognize him. Academia likely educates its spies under strict secrecy so no Defector could blow their cover in the future." yeah, talk about annoying...

Dennis's battle style became brutal, allowing his Giant to toy with its prey, reducing the Duel Palace to a mess, and even putting the crowd in danger with its destructive force. The same happened with Sora too, and just like then, Dennis also taunted Shun by rubbing salt into his wounds and revealing he's responsible for green-lighting the invasion of the Xyz Dimension once he found Ruri.

As expected, Dennis was also blindly following orders, meaning he couldn't tell us why Academia had its sight set on Ruri, but it made you wonder if Leo worried more about the Bracelet Girls than the actual invasion... In any case, Shun let loose of his fury and defeated Dennis with the aid of a new Xyz Monster, Satellite Cannon Falcon.

The Raidraptor user attempted to seal our newly unmasked foe into a card but found out his Duel Disk has been jammed and couldn't do so. Did...Reiji expect a situation like this and tampered with his Duel Disk when he took them from us before heading to Synchro? It sounded like something he would do...and a part of me was really glad for it because I don't think Dennis deserved to be turned into a card.

Say what you want, but that's my take. He admitted he wanted to continue his street performances in Heartland and make people smile, but he had to obey his orders. He suppressed the real him in favor of Academia, of an idiot called Leo. If I didn't hold a grudge against Sora, Serena, Daphne, Ren, and Antinomy for what they had done, I didn't have the right to do so against Dennis, either. They were all simply doing their job, nothing more, nothing less.

And it's not like our relationship actually ran that deep, either. No, maybe it would be more correct to say it didn't have the time to fully bloom. We may have smiled and laughed together and tossed around the words 'friends' and 'comrades' around like nothing, but our bonds were built on doubt to begin with. I theorized Dennis hailed from Fusion right from the start, hence why I wasn't as devastated by this reveal as someone like Yuya, who probably didn't even consider this possibility.

That said, Dennis definitely deserved a punch from Shun, too bad the staff members interfered and separated them. Sigh, today was a pretty eventful day, wasn't it? There was still this...tension in the air though, which a few of my children noted as well, almost as if something else was going to happen. Wonder what that's about...

Third-person POV

Valkyrie, a long time ago, back when she was still a student, read a meaningful sentence in a book that deeply moved her, one that's been stuck in her head ever since: the hardest test in life is having the patience to wait for the right moment.

To many, waiting is an agonizing experience, which Valkyrie could relate to. Waiting for a new episode of your favorite soap opera or anime, waiting for a test score or the result of a medical checkup, waiting for the right moment to strike in a Duel, and the list goes on.

However, as strange as it may sound, Valkyrie also enjoyed this game of waiting. It's precisely thanks to Dueling that she found this out. Patiently unveiling your strategy to your opponent, patiently handling their counters, patiently preparing for the Final Turn—Yes, waiting was also a game of patience.

And Valkyrie, much like her grandfather, had plenty of patience. So much, in fact, that they've been waiting for this exact moment for nearly two decades by now.

Truth be told...Valkyrie really wanted to correct Daphne earlier this afternoon, saying she should be wary of her and her grandfather, and not the Executive Council as a whole, but she held her tongue. After all, how could one hope to build suspense if you don't withhold information and arouse curiosity? Everybody must equally and patiently wait for the big reveal; those are the rules.

"The real question is how long can you brag like that, Roget." Valkyrie's words put an end to the mentioned person and Reiji's conversation. She completely stepped out of the shadow of White Taki's seat and stood beside him, drawing everyone's gaze onto herself. "Calling our city your kingdom is uncalled for, especially in our presence."

[Hm?] clearly amused, Roget raised an eyebrow. [Your presence, you say? Well, I, on the other hand, think what's uncalled for was that pointless remark of yours, Valkyrie. With the Executive Council—and as a result, you yourself—sealed, do you believe this is the right time to address me in such a rude way?]

"It's alright, Valkyrie." Gael reassured her in a low tone. "As things stand, we don't—"

"Before we continue, let's make one thing clear." the pink-haired woman cut him off, an action which surprised the other Council members, except for White. She's never dared interrupt a superior before, much less someone from the Council. "When I say 'we', I'm not referring to me and the Executive Council."

She placed a hand on White's armrest. "But instead, me and Taki-sama." she clarified firmly.

"What?" Gael's eyes widened.

"What's the meaning of this?" Gray asked in complete bewilderment, a sentiment shared by the rest of the Council bar White of course. Reira was equally confused, while Reiji calmly adjusted his spectacles and remained silent as things took a sudden turn of events.

[I'm listening.] even Roget turned serious, dropping his fake smile and narrowing his eyes.

"Jean Michel Roget, you've severely underestimated us from the very beginning." White spoke up at last. "A person without a name suddenly appears one day and presents us with a powerful weapon that did not exist yet... It's obvious we would look into it. We were able to notice Academia's existence and realize you came from another world."

He gestured at the tall hologram projection in front of him. "As long as you are around, the threat of Academia looms over us. We must avoid at any cost an invasion. We didn't allow you to become the Chief of the Security Bureau because we're a charity, but it was in order to avoid invoking Academia's wrath and to keep a close eye on you."

[Pardon my frankness, but that's quite absurd.] Roget snorted. [Allowing me to obtain the power that's second only to the Executive Council in this city to keep tabs on me? There surely could've been a better way, don't you think?]

"You know the saying, keep your friends close, and your enemies closer." Valkyrie pointed out. She then smiled mischievously. "The offer was too enticing to decline; obtaining so much power and wealth in an instant...it came as no surprise you embraced the chance you've been given. You were satisfied, like a beast who's just eaten its prey, and you didn't cause us any trouble."

The Chief of Security frowned. "Moreover, those with power and wealth are afraid to lose them once they get a taste of them." she continued. "That means we also expected you to avoid summoning Academia in the early stages by letting you obtain some status."

[So?] their opposition inquired, irritation creeping into his voice due to what was just revealed. [How do you wish to proceed considering your current predicament?]

"Don't worry, we want to keep things simple and easy." White raised a finger. "We'll settle this with a Duel."

A Duel? with that new piece of information, Reiji assembled the puzzle in his head and reached a conclusion. I see. They aren't going to simply defend themselves but use this coup d'état to their advantage. Their aim must be to...

[Fufu...hahahahaha!] Roget, on the other hand, burst into laughter, looking at the two as if they were lunatics. [Following your grandiose speech, you'd still resort to Dueling!? And here I thought you'll stop fooling around. Why should I accept a ridiculous challenge like that to begin with?]

Valkyrie raised an eyebrow. "Why do you find it strange we want to resolve this matter through Dueling? Don't you plan to oust the King in the same manner?"

[Hmph, I guess I can't argue with that.] Roget rolled his shoulders nonchalantly. [But now I'm curious; what could you possibly have to offer to persuade me to accept your request?]

"If we win, you will lose your right to command and we will take you into custody," White explained. From his expression, it was obvious Roget foresaw that condition. The elderly man's smile widened as he went on, "If you win, you will be appointed the new President of the Executive Council."

That, however, Roget didn't expect, and his eyes widened in unison with the rest of the Council.

"The new...President?" Reira mumbled in confusion. "Everything...will fall into Roget's hands, then."

"Do you realize what you're saying, President!?" Azul exclaimed, looking at her allies with pleading eyes. "You, too, Valkyrie! A desperate gamble at this point won't—"

"You're saying it's better if we stay silent and let our city be tarnished even further!?" no one uttered a word as White, who just like Valkyrie never interrupts someone, or raises his voice for that matter, suddenly glared at Azul, prompting her to gasp. "The City's always been in a delicate state due to the division between Commons and Tops, but ever since Enjoy Chojiro was arrested for cheating ten years ago, it slowly deteriorated, to the point where riots are an everyday occurrence!"

Valkyrie placed a hand on his shoulder, an action which somewhat calmed White. "The measures we implemented to improve the situation haven't bore exhilarating fruit." he reminded. "After a decade, I can't be the only one who thinks we should adopt a different strategy."

[For that end, you plan to remove me from the picture by force, and by broadcasting the Duel to the entire City, no doubt. Honestly, I didn't know you had it in you, White Taki!] Roget let loose of a malicious grin. [Very well. If you're so eager to lose everything in front of everyone, then be my guest! The Duel will take place today at midnight on the roof of the Hall of Dominion! Until then, I bid you gentlemen farewell.]

Followed by a mocking bow, Roget's projection vanished from existence. Despite the tense atmosphere, White released a long sigh, drawing everyone's attention as his iconic smile returned to his face.

"For a second, I thought he'll play it safe and decline, but no. What a scare!" he admitted. He then bowed his head a little to the others. "I want to apologize to everyone for taking advantage of your words to rile up Roget, but with your contribution, the die has been finally cast."

"President, Valkyrie, what are you planning?" Bordeaux inquired.

"To ruin Roget's image." the one to answer him was Reiji. "It would be preposterous to expect Roget to uphold his end of the bargain, after all, he has no reason to, unlike you who would be figuratively at gunpoint after the City witnesses Valkyrie, your strongest and only Dueling asset, lose to him."

He glanced backwards at the officers blocking the entrance with their 'Goyo' Monsters. "Not to mention, he's already forced his way into your headquarters." he remarked. "Of course, he, too, knows what will really happen if he loses, but he has more reasons to accept than to decline. His decision was perfectly reasonable."

If Roget wins, he will gain absolute control of the Executive Council, that is to say, of their authority over their personnel and the City. Just imagine how stronger he would become if Valkyrie was on his side as well! Moreover, by removing White and co. from the equation, Roget's search for Dennis would go as smoothly as the surface of a mirror. To top it off, the Friendship Cup participants would lose their guardians, meaning there would be no one stopping Roget from barging into the rooms of those he deems troublesome or useful to his kingdom and apprehending them.

"Of course, it goes without saying your challenge is also reasonable." Reiji complimented as he adjusted his spectacles. This was the right moment to bet the Council's power to Roget, precisely because of Reiji and his Lancers. Even if Valkyrie loses, they will take care of Roget and put an end to his schemes. Although, that would only be necessary if he manages to defeat Jack Atlas, too.

"Roget thinks too highly of himself, which makes him easy to predict." Valkyrie sighed in exasperation. "Taking away his right to command was like snapping the last straw holding together his patience, causing him to reveal his true motives. Provoking him with words and our infighting definitely helped, too."

"...I would be lying if I said I disagree with you two." Azul admitted with a pained expression. "When I was a little girl, I remember every day in the City was peaceful. I'm not fond of what became of this city, either, but what use would it be to remove Roget and dominate it with force?"

"Ah, that's probably what Roget thinks, too." White nodded twice to himself. "But what we're aiming for isn't that. Actually, we don't intend to ruin Roget's image per se, either. It's Security."

"Ruin Security's image?" Gael's eyebrows furrowed. "But Security is the organization that's supposed to maintain order between Commons and Tops."

"If people see it can't live up to its title, chaos will ensure." Gray concluded.

"If I may," Valkyrie politely spoke up. "Security was indeed founded with the intent Gael-sama stated, however, people's view of it changed drastically over time. If you ask a Common or Top what Security does, they will answer by saying it maintains the Tops' social advantage. It's nothing more than a wall which strengthens the hate between our city's people."

"Exactly." White agreed. "A wall that must be removed at any cost if we plan to unite our people. Of course, any city needs an organized civil force for maintaining order, preventing and detecting crime, and enforcing the laws, and believing otherwise would be a fool's errand. Therefore, we must establish a new Security that won't stray away from its intended purpose."

"If the symbol of their hate is gone...people would be willing to talk." Reira deduced in a low tone, which made it only possible for her brother to hear, who nodded in confirmation.

"The Tops might take issue with the removal of Security." Azul interjected, but before anyone could reply, she continued speaking, now with a hopeful tone. "But as time has proved, they can be won over."

"For the sake of the City's order..." Bordeaux smiled, an action the other Council members copied while nodding to his words. "We'll see you two through this plan."

"Oh..." White blinked twice, followed by a cheerful chuckle. He's very glad they saw eye to eye with the entire Council. "Thank you, everyone."

He then turned to the pink-haired woman standing beside him, prompting the others to do the same. "As planned, I'm leaving the Dueling up to you." his smile turned sheepish. "I'm leaving a crucial burden on your shoulders...you once told me not to apologize, but I can't stop myself from doing it again. I'm sorry, Rukia."

"It's alright, ojii-sama." Taki Rukia, the Executive Council's Valkyrie, smiled reassuringly at her grandfather. "I've been waiting for this moment. I'm all ready to sortie!"

At midnight...

"Folks, I'm not gonna lie, I wasn't in a good mood when I was suddenly called in to give a live commentary at this hour, considering tomorrow's another day of the Friendship Cup and all, but when I heard the matchup, I simply couldn't say no. I still don't know the circumstances behind this occasion, but who cares! Valkyrie herself will be Dueling!"

Melissa shouted with clear excitement into her mic aboard a helicopter, the cameraman next to her filming the stated Duelist who's standing with a resolute expression on the roof of the Hall of Dominion, waiting for her opponent to arrive.

"As the right-hand man of the Executive Council, this young woman has always been seen by their side as their staunch guardian and even attended significant meetings in their stead, be it in the City or abroad," Melissa explained. "That might mean nothing to some of you, but let me tell you, she certainly proved her close combat and Dueling skills, as well as her smarts, are a force to be reckoned with!"

She lowered her voice a little like she was about to tell the viewers a secret. "Rumor has it she's Jack Atlas's pupil, which would mean she's even stronger than she lets on." she raised her voice back to normal. "We'll definitely find it out through this Duel! Kyaa~! I can't wait! Go, go, Valkyrie! Good luck!"

"That woman..." the said Duelist sweatdropped. It wasn't strange she was on the reporter's 'female stars I must fangirl' list, in fact, she saw it coming, but that didn't make it any less exasperating. She shook her head lightly, focusing back on the matter at hand, right in time to watch a second helicopter swoop up from the other side of the roof, causing her hair to wildly swing backwards.

"There he is!" Melissa cheered as a person jumped out of the newly arrived aircraft, landing on the ground with a heavy THUD. "His name alone spreads fear into the hearts of both Commons and Tops! His ruthless battle style earned him the nickname of the 'Duelist Crusher'! Exactly today we saw this man compete in the Friendship Cup, so there's no chance you haven't heard of him! The new challenger who approaches iiis—Sergey Volkov!"

The gray-haired man whose face and upper torso were covered in criminal marks slowly straighten out, his left eye flashing crimson upon setting his impassive gaze on his opponent.

"As expected, Roget released his favorite lapdog." Valkyrie commented, adjusting her hair once the second helicopter left. "The infamous Duelist Crusher, huh? Good. I've been dying to test my skills on someone strong."

Instead of retorting, Sergey simply deployed his Duel Disk, prompting her to do the same and reveal a Duel Disk with a similar model to Jack's but possessing a rounded, dark green energy blade.

"It's starting." back in his office, Roget chuckled to himself, moving a white pawn on his chess board forward. "My final battle against those old geezers. Once I throw them off of their thrones, this city will be mine. Don't disappoint me, Sergey...the dawn of my regime is at hand!"

"DUEL!" the two declared in unison.

Sergey: LP 4000

VS

Valkyrie: LP 4000

"Atashi no turn!" Valkyrie announced. "I activate the Spell Card Akashic Record. I draw two cards."

After doing so, she revealed them, "Neither of these cards have been played during this Duel, therefore, I'm not required to banish them per Akashic Record's effect."

"Lucky~!" Melissa sang. "That card in a starting hand is like a Pot of Greed! Unless your bad luck catches up and you draw another copy of it, that is..."

"I activate the Field Spell Vylon Purity!" a card, which depicted a mechanical, angel-like Monster descending from a cloudy sky, appeared. The machine's body emitted a divine glow, causing several demonic, insect-like creatures on the ground to flee the scene. "By controlling this card, I don't have to pay Life Points in order to activate the effects of my 'Vylon' cards. I summon Vylon Pentachloro!"

To appear on her field was a pentachoron-shaped machine whose color palette conveyed a sense of divinity, staying on theme with her Field Spell's art, but the eerie glow of the blue gems on its body told a different story.

Vylon Pentachloro: Light / Machine / Union / Effect / ATK: 500 / DEF: 400 / LV: 4

"Next, I activate the Spell Card Machine Duplication." Valkyrie said. "I target my Pentachloro with 500 Attack to Special Summon two Monsters from my Deck which share its name!"

A pair of Pentachloros joined their brethren through a portal glowing with sacred light.

"In an instant, Valkyrie summoned three Monsters!" Melissa shouted in awe. "It's only the first turn, but I have a hunch she's getting ready for a big move!"

"I activate the Spell Card Vylon Synthesis!" a card, which showed a blue golem fusing with a 'Vylon' Monster inside three golden rings, appeared. "Through its effect, I can Special Summon one 'Vylon' Monster from my hand or Deck. Descend from my Deck, the Tuner Monster, Vylon Prism!"

A sacred machine with chunks of prism crystals attached to its body appeared next.

Vylon Prism: Light / Thunder / Tuner / Effect / ATK: 1500 / DEF: 1500 / LV: 4

"To complete my preparations, I activate the Equip Spell Vylon Nucleus and equip it to one of my Pentachloros." a card, which depicted a close-up of a cube-shaped Vylon with the gem on its 'chest' glowing brightly, was revealed. "I declare 3. By doing so, the equipped Monster's Level becomes 3, it cannot attack, its effects are negated, and it is treated as a Tuner."

"A consecutive Synchro Summon." Reiji thought out loud, watching the Duel together with Reira from the Executive Council's office. In a lower tone, he added, "Considering her ranking, it doesn't come as a surprise she can manipulate Synchro to that extent."

"I tune the Level 4 Prism with the Level 4 Pentachloro!" as her machine's body morphed into four green rings that surrounded the pentachoron and turned it into four stars, she chanted. "The heavens shall praise this angel's zeal. Let the radiance of the holy watcher guide us to salvation! Synchro Summon! Descend, Level 8! Vylon Omicron!"

Accompanied by an angelic choir, a sacred machine emerged from the bright beam that shot through the rings. Its pristine white body was lined with golden highlights—among which an 'O' situated on its chest—and green gems, and instead of legs or arms, it had a wide halo glowing behind its back to which four oversized projectile-like accessories were connected through an invisible link.

Vylon Omicron: Light / Machine / Synchro / Effect / ATK: 2800 / DEF: 1400 / LV: 8

"At this moment, Prism's and Omicron's effects activate. Under normal conditions, I would have to pay 500 Life Points to use each of them, but with Vylon Purity in play, I can skip that part." Valkyrie pointed out. "First, since Omicron was Synchro Summoned using only Vylons as materials, I can equip one 'Vylon' Monster from my Graveyard to it, treating it as if it was equipped by that card's own effect. I select Pentachloro!"

The spectral image of Pentachloro materialized in front of her Synchro Monster before exploding into particles that were sucked into its chest.

"Moving on, since Prism was sent from the Monster Card Zone to the Graveyard, I can target one face-up Monster I control and equip Prism to it. Of course, I target Omicron!"

The same scene from seconds ago repeated itself, this time involving the said Tuner.

"There it is! Valkyrie's specialty, freely equipping Spells and Monsters alike!" Melissa cried out with a grin. "If Sergey can't keep up with both her Monsters and her Equip Cards, our female star won't have to break a sweat to come out on top!"

Even if his name was spoken, Sergey continued to emotionlessly stare at his opponent, who paid him no mind.

"I tune the two Level 4 Pentachloros!" the pink-haired woman threw an arm forward. "The bright souls shall become one. All shall praise the advent of the heavens' angel! Synchro Summon! Descend, Level 7! Vylon Delta!"

Accompanied by an angelic choir, another sacred machine emerged from the bright beam that shot through the rings, spreading its steel wings wide and crossing its arms in front of itself in a defensive stance.

Vylon Delta: Light / Machine / Synchro / Effect / ATK: 1700 / DEF: 2800 / LV: 7

"First it's a Synchro Monster with 2800 Attack, now it's one with 2800 Defense!" Melissa noted. "It seems I was right earlier; she isn't pulling any punches!"

"The effect of Nucleus, which was face-up on the field and was sent to the Graveyard, activates," Valkyrie explained. "I can add one 'Vylon' Spell Card from my Deck to my hand. I select Vylon Segment, which I then equip to Omicron."

A golden ornament crackling with violet electricity appeared on Omicron's chest.

"Through its effect, the equipped Vylon cannot be targeted by my opponent's Monster and Trap effects. I set one card face-down and end my turn." Valkyrie concluded. "During my End Phase, the effect of Delta, which is in defense mode, activates, permitting me to add one Equip Spell from my Deck to my hand."

"Ore no turn. Draw." Sergey declared. "I activate the Spell Card Reasoning. My opponent declares a Level from 1 to 12, then I excavate cards from the top of my Deck until a Monster that can be Normal Summoned or set is revealed. If that Monster's Level is the same as the one you declared, all excavated cards are sent to the Graveyard, otherwise, I Special Summon that Monster and send the other excavated cards to the Graveyard."

"In the end, your aim's to fill your Graveyard." Valkyrie huffed. The Duelist Crusher may be currently under Roget's leadership, but his deck remained the same as in the old days, meaning she already knew a thing or two about it even before watching his match against Damon today. It would be great if she could prevent Sergey from summoning a Monster, however, she didn't know a single Monster of his that can be Normal Summoned/Set...

Better go with the safest bet, then. "I declare Level 1."

Sergey proceeded to silently excavate the top eleven cards of his deck before holding up the twelfth, now sporting a satisfied smile. "Level 1, Infernoid Decatron." Valkyrie frowned. She avoided the summon of his Monster, but the number of cards he dumped was alarming.

"Sergey sent t-twelve cards to the Graveyard..." Melissa gulped nervously, aware of how he'll put those cards to good use.

"This Monster can only be Special Summoned by banishing three 'Infernoid' Monsters from my hand or Graveyard while the total Levels of all Effect Monsters I control are 8 or lower." the gray-haired man's smile widened when he revealed the said card. "With Infernoids Pirmais, Antra, and Patrulea as your fuel, ascend from the Inferno, queen whose cry invites havoc. Appear, Infernoid Devyaty!"

Azure flames burst to life under Sergey's section of the roof, from which a demonic, serpentine-bodied machine slowly rose up, spreading its four wings in a menacing manner followed by an ear-piercing shriek.

Infernoid Devyaty: Fire / Fiend / Effect / ATK: 2900 / DEF: 2900 / LV: 9

"Level 9 and 2-2900 Attack right out of the gate...!?" Melissa was having a hard time believing her eyes. "Moreover, look at the size of that thing! It rivals the size of Harald's gods, Ren's White Aura Whale and Bihamut, and Vince's Titans!"

"Devyaty already?" Roget chuckled darkly while moving pieces on his board. In the past, Sergey owned only two Infernoids that large, and they were both his ace Monsters. For him to summon one of them on his first turn... "I guess he's in a good mood."

"Devyaty no kōka!" the said man gestured at his demonic monstrosity. "When this card is Special Summoned, I can destroy all Spell and Trap Cards on the field. Primordial Imbalance!"

"I won't let you! Vylon Purity no kōka!" Valkyrie raised a hand to the sky. "Because I control a card equipped to a 'Vylon' Monster I control, my Spell and Trap Cards cannot be destroyed by your card effects!"

The serpentine machine unleashed a wave of azure flames from its mouth, but moments before it could wash over the opposite side of the roof, Valkyrie's Synchro Monsters emitted a strong glow from their bodies, forming a transparent barrier that repelled the savage fire.

"Sergey's strike was successfully intercepted!" Melissa gloated. "Considering her specialty revolves around Equip Cards, that effect comes in handy. Now then, how will the Duelist Crusher respond!?"

"I activate the Continuous Spell Void Imagination." he stated. "'Infernoid' Monsters I control whose original Levels are 2 or higher become Level 1 and all battle damage they would inflict is halved."

(Devyaty: Level 9→1)

Roget couldn't help but grin at the shocked face Valkyrie made after hearing that effect. Of course, who wouldn't be flustered upon discovering their foe had an effect to ignore a drawback of their deck? Ah, wait...earlier, Sergey's expression didn't change when she revealed Purity's effect...then again, he was more machine than human at present, so would that even count? In any case, Roget's glad he made that card for him.

"Excluding Decatron, all Infernoids have the same Summoning condition, but the amount of Monsters to banish and the location from which they can be summoned differs. I banish Infernoid Attondel from my Graveyard to Special Summon Infernoid Harmadik from my hand!"

Following Sergey's words, a demonic machine with three horns, hoof-shaped feet, and two wings sprouting from its back appeared on his field through a miniature explosion of azure flames.

Infernoid Harmadik: Fire / Fiend / Effect / ATK: 1600 / DEF: 0 / LV: 3 → 1

Valkyrie frowned. "Despite its low Level, it's...too big." if she had to guess, if fully straightened out, that Monster was as tall as a two-story house, the same size as most of her 'Vylon' Synchro Monsters. Come to think of it, prior to his detainment, Security had no trouble finding his whereabouts. Actually, no one had. His Monsters were easy to spot like the sun in a clear sky!

"I activate Harmadik's effect, targeting your Delta for it." Sergey pointed forward. The eerie flash of Harmadik's eyes couldn't be missed in the night. "Harmadik can't attack this turn, but in exchange, the targeted Monster is destroyed. Last Dawn!"

"Purity's last effect!" Valkyrie quickly shouted. "You cannot target my Monsters for attacks or with card effects, except the Monster with the most cards equipped to it! Your target would be Omicron, however, the equipped Vylon Segment prevents you from targeting it with Monster and Trap effects!"

Azure flames enveloped Harmadik's claws, but before it could use them to slash Delta apart, Omicron fired one of its projectiles at the demonic machine, diverting its attention onto itself.

"Her defense is solid." Reiji commented out of the blue. "But...Sergey's offense isn't to be laughed at, either."

"I also activate a Field Spell: Void Expansion." as if to prove his point, the gray-haired man continued his assault. "When Special Summoning an Infernoid using its own procedure, I can banish 'Infernoid' Monsters on my field instead of those in the Graveyard, or any combination of both."

Valkyrie clicked her tongue. "Sergey had another effect that lessens the strain on his behemoths' Summoning condition!?" Melissa's eyes widened. "Oi, oi, at this point, straight up change the effect itself!"

"Come now, I'm not that plain." Roget moved a white knight forward. "And I have no reason to bother with this deck when I'm preparing him an entirely new one..."

"I banish Harmadik and Decatron from my field and Graveyard respectively to Special Summon Seitsemas from my Graveyard!"

A demonic, dragon-like machine that had two wings sprouting from its back and a cannon replacing its left hand emerged from a wave of azure flames behind Sergey, brandishing its spear with a growl.

Infernoid Seitsemas: Fire / Fiend / Effect / ATK: 2600 / DEF: 0 / LV: 7 → 1

"I banish Void Evolution from my Graveyard and activate its effect." the spectral image of a Trap Card, which depicted Devyaty fused with a mechanical puppet whose body was partially frozen and suspended by purple strings, appeared. It was relentlessly launching attacks of azure flames and ice shards from its hands at its surroundings. "By shuffling five of my banished Infernoids into the Deck, I can draw three cards!"

Out of the six Infernoids in his Banish Zone, Sergey kept Decatron. "I banish Patrulea and Antra from my hand and Graveyard respectively to Special Summon Sjette from my Graveyard!"

A second demonic, dragon-like machine with four horns and two wings sprouting from its back emerged from a wave of azure flames beside its brethren with a roar.

Infernoid Sjette: Fire / Fiend / Effect / ATK: 2400 / DEF: 0 / LV: 6 → 1

"He gathered three of them...but at least there are no more in his Graveyard." Valkyrie reasoned with herself in a low tone.

"Battle." Sergey's smile turned predatory. "Devyaty attacks Omicron. Gamaliel Tumult!"

"A bad move on your part." the pink-haired woman said. "If the Monster equipped with Prism attacks or is attacked, its effect activates, raising the equipped Monster's Attack by 1000 during the Damage Step only!"

Omicron's green gems lit up in sequence at those words.

"3800 Attack!" Melissa smiled anew. "Our female star counterattacks!"

"Don't get carried away." Sergey warned, some vitality finally creeping into his voice. "I activate the Quick-Play Spell Awakening of the Void!"

A card, which showed an Infernoid-like Monster with a flaming mane curling its serpentine body around itself as a dark-scaled left wing and a white-feathered right wing burst out of its back, appeared.

"All Monsters I control gain 500 Attack and Defense for each Infernoid on the field!" Sergey stated. "Also! Any battle damage they would inflict can't be halved!"

"What?" Valkyrie inquired.

"Another reversal, this time from Sergey!" Melissa exclaimed. "With three Infernoids on the field, his behemoths will gain 1500 Attack and Defense, which would cause Devyaty's Attack to surpass Omicron's again!"

"Torappu hatsudō: Armory Call!" Valkyrie interjected. "I can add one Equip Spell from my Deck to my hand, then equip it to an appropriate Monster I control! I select Vylon Material and equip it to Omicron!"

Four firearm-like accessories materialized around the Synchro Monster before attaching themselves to its projectiles, causing its gems and even halo to glow brighter.

"The equipped 'Vylon' Monster's Attack is increased by 600 points!" following Valkyrie's words, the rest of the chain resolved.

(Omicron: 2800→3800→4400 ATK; Devyaty: 2900→4400 ATK, 2900→4400 DEF; Seitsemas: 2600→4100 ATK, 0→1500 DEF; Sjette: 2400→3900 ATK, 0→1500 DEF)

"And before anyone asks, no, my aim isn't mutual destruction." she remarked. "With Pentachloro's effect, instead of the equipped Monster, this card will be destroyed."

"I myself have an effect like that." Sergey remarked. "By banishing Awakening of the Void from my Graveyard, this turn, my 'Infernoid' Monsters can't be destroyed by battle!"

The forces of the heavens and Inferno clashed in the night sky. Devyaty beat its main wings, sending a large wave of azure flames in Omicron's direction, which released its four projectiles and rearranged them in front of itself as a shield together with a screen of light as a safety precaution. Nothing got past that makeshift barrier.

(Omicron: 4400→3400 ATK)

To avoid getting caught in the crossfire, Melissa's helicopter was forced to distance itself from the roof. "Wh-What an intense battle..." the reporter wheezed out. "Nothing was destroyed, but the shock waves were still crazy. Is this how they fight when they're serious...?"

"Psst!" the cameraman snapped her out of her daze.

"Ah! Um, the battle ended without a victor!" Melissa hastily pointed out the obvious. "Since Valkyrie essentially controls Omicron with 4400 Attack, Sergey can't attack anymore—"

"Battle!" the said man's declaration cut her off. "Seitsemas attacks Omicron! Bael Dominion!"

(Omicron: 3400→4400 ATK)

Seitsemas fired multiple lightning bolts from its cannon, which the angelic machine had no trouble dispersing with a swing of one of its projectiles. It then fired an energy beam from each of its other appendages, two of which the mechanical demon deflected with its spear, while the third one struck Sergey and sent him skidding backwards.

Sergey: LP 4000 - 300 = 3700

(Omicron: 4400→3400 ATK)

"He attacked!? And damaged himself!?" Melissa was confused. "Why would he do that!?"

Sergey crackled a laugh for an answer, prompting Valkyrie to scowl. Roget shot a wary glance at the screen displaying information about Sergey and his vitals and calmed down upon seeing his limiter was still functional. Good, the last thing he needed was for him to become a mad dog in the middle of his most important Duel yet.

"Battle!" the Duelist Crusher shouted. "Sjette attacks Omicron! At this moment, its effect activates! When this card declares an attack, I can force my opponent to banish one Monster from their Extra Deck! Cruel Usurpation!"

An on-attack effect? removing a copy of Omicron from her Extra Deck, Valkyrie put two and two together. If that's the case, Seitsemas must have an effect linked to battle as well.

"Do it, Sjette! Belphegor Revelation!"

Upon hearing its user's command, Sjette let loose of a spiraling wave of azure flames from its mouth. Omicron effortlessly bisected it with a projectile, causing some sparks to wash over Sergey and make him groan.

Sergey: LP 3700 - 500 = 3200

(Omicron: 4400→3400 ATK)

"This pain...agh, this pain...!" Sergey's left eye flashed crimson, and he seemingly descended from cloud nine, returning to his impassive self. "Seitsemas's effect activates at the end of the Battle Phase. Since it attacked an opponent's Monster, I can banish one card on the field. Bring Omicron down with Wicked Stratagem!"

Pointing its spear at its foe, the mechanical demon conjured a portal of flames under the Synchro Monster, from which a myriad of azure strings thrashed out. After ensnaring their prey, they brought the mechanical angel down into the Inferno.

"What a twist! Sergey's plan came to light!" Melissa cried out in concern. "The reason he attacked and damaged himself was to prevail over Omicron! Truly, a wicked stratagem!"

"A fresh breath of air from Atlas-sensei, as unpleasant as he may be." Valkyrie found herself add in a low tone. She then raised her voice again, "The effects of Segment and Material activate. They're the same as Nucleus's, permitting me to add the Spell Cards Vylon Element and Component from my Deck to my hand."

"I set two cards and end my turn." Sergey concluded at last. "Awakening of the Void's effect also expires, and the stats of my Infernoids return to normal."

"This Valkyrie...she's really strong." Reira observed, to which her brother concurred with a nod. Her defense was solid, she exhibited adaptability, and replenished her resources during her opponent's turn. The Duelists of Synchro sure were something.

"I'm honored you're holding my granddaughter in high regard." White smiled brightly at the two.

"Valkyrie's turn is next." Gael said.

"After defense, there's offense." Gray remarked.

"Atashi no turn!" Valkyrie announced. "Draw! I activate the Continuous Spell Vylon Element and the Equip Spell Rod of Silence - Kay'est, equipping it to Delta!"

"Torappu hatsudō: Void Prison!" a card, which depicted the same monstrosity that appears on Awakening of the Void seemingly deactivated at the bottom of a dark pit, appeared. "I send the top two cards of my Deck to the Graveyard, and for each 'Infernoid' Monster among them, I can banish one face-up card you control."

Sergey revealed the said cards to everyone. "Both of them are Infernoids." whether the result bothered her or not, Valkyrie did a good job at concealing it. "I banish Vylon Element and Delta!"

A net made of azure flames appeared over each card, causing them to leave the field in a shower of particles.

"You removed them so soon? Did you recall their effects, or was the data quickly sent to your brain?" she already used the Element-Kay'est-combo in public, but that was roughly one year ago, so it's hard to believe he remembered it. Sergey remained silent in the face of his foe's query.

"Hoh?" Roget, on the other hand, was amused. The Executive Council got wind of what he did to his strongest Duelist? "Well, not that it makes a difference."

"I set a card face-down, then activate the Spell Card Card of Demise." Valkyrie stated. "It permits me to draw until I have five cards in my hand, at the cost of sending all the cards in my hand to the Graveyard on my fifth Standby Phase after its activation!"

After doing so, "I activate the Spell Card Card of Adversity. If I control no Monsters while you control a Special Summoned one, I'm permitted to draw two cards!"

"Look at that draw power!" Melissa cheered. "Valkyrie's preparing for a decisive comeback!"

"I summon Vylon Hept!" a sacred machine with large gauntlets attached to its hands appeared.

Vylon Hept: Light / Fairy / Effect / ATK: 1800 / DEF: 800 / LV: 4

"I activate Vylon Synthesis's effect from my Graveyard, banishing it and targeting the non-Tuner Hept," Valkyrie explained. "This permits me to equip one 'Vylon' Tuner Monster from my Deck to my target. I select Vylon Stella!"

The spectral image of a star-shaped machine appeared behind Hept for a few seconds.

"Now I activate Hept's effect." the said Monster clenched its fists and gained a golden aura. "Once per turn, I can target one 'Vylon' Monster that's currently an Equip Card and Special Summon it in defense mode."

"In response, I activate Devyaty's last effect." Sergey butted in. "Once per turn, when another Monster's effect is activated, by releasing one Monster I control, I can negate that activation and banish that Monster!"

With an ear-piercing shriek, the serpentine machine's body burst into flames which coiled around Hept and made it explode into particles.

"Sergey gets in our female star's way for the second time!" Melissa complained. She then aimed an accusing finger at the Duelist Crusher. "Don't you know it's rude to interrupt someone!"

"He released Devyaty itself?" Valkyrie muttered. Sure, it was a once-per-turn negate and he can revive Devyaty using its other effect, triggering its effect on-Special Summon in the process, thus justifying his decision, but it was still useless with Vylon Purity in play. Upon checking his remaining Monsters' effects on her Duel Disk, she found the truth behind his decision. "I see, those two have their own way of disrupting my moves."

She re-examined her cards. "But with this hand, I can do it." she told herself. "I activate the Quick-Play Spell Celestial Transformation! I Special Summon one Fairy-Type Monster from my hand, but its Attack is halved and it is destroyed during the End Phase. Descend, Vylon Soldier!"

A sacred machine with golden armor attached to its arms and shoulders appeared next.

Vylon Soldier: Light / Fairy / Effect / ATK: 1700 → 850 / DEF: 1000 / LV: 4

"I activate a new Continuous Spell: Vylon Plane!" a card, which showed a flat, two-dimensional, white and gold low orbit base above the clouds with the sun setting in the distance, appeared. "Its effect permits me to, once per turn, Special Summon one 'Vylon' Tuner or Union Monster from my hand. Descend, Vylon Tesseract!"

To materialize on her field was a tesseract-shaped machine with the same color palette as Pentachloro and violet gems glowing with an eerie light on its body.

Vylon Tesseract: Light / Machine / Union / Effect / ATK: 800 / DEF: 600 / LV: 4

"I equip Soldier with the Vylon Component I've set before using Card of Demise." a futuristic device connected itself to one of Soldier's hands, crackling with pink electricity. "In addition, I activate Tesseract's effect, equipping it Soldier!"

Bursting into a shower of particles shaped like its namesake, the Union Monster entered the other machine's gems, causing them to gain an eerie hue.

"Battle!" Valkyrie gestured forward. "Soldier attacks Seitsemas!"

"She's attacking!?" Melissa's eyes widened. "Why!?"

"Hit back, Seitsemas!" electricity began gathering inside the demonic machine's cannon.

"Soldier no kōka!" at those words, Sergey's eyes widened, too. "When this card declares an attack, I can target Monsters you control, up to the number of cards equipped to Soldier, and change their Battle Positions. With two, I can target both of your Infernoids!"

"Wh-What a move!" Melissa's smile returned as the two behemoths fell to their knees with confused growls and revealed their 0 DEF. "With no Defense, even the weakened Soldier can defeat Seitsemas!"

"Moreover!" Valkyrie went on. "With Component equipped to it, Soldier's attacks inflict piercing damage! Do it, my angel!"

Soldier fired multiple lightning bolts from its device, each of them hitting its mark. Seitsemas's body jerked wildly and eventually exploded, sending its user stumbling backwards.

Sergey: LP 3200 - 850 = 2350

"You...!" despite taking damage and losing one of his Monsters, Sergey grinned darkly.

"Are you angry?" Valkyrie grinned herself. "For your information, I'm only getting started. Since the Vylon it's equipped to destroyed an opponent's Monster by battle, Tesseract's effect activates. I target the Level 3 Stella in my Graveyard and Special Summon it!"

"Naïve! Sjette no kōka!" Sergey suddenly cried out. "During either player's turn once, I can release one Monster I control to target and banish one card in my opponent's Graveyard. I release Sjette itself and target Stella!"

"If it's banished, Stella won't be summoned!" Melissa pointed out.

"The naïve one is you, Duelist Crusher!" the pink-haired woman remarked. "With Vylon Plane in play, you cannot activate cards or effects in response to the activation of my 'Vylon' Equip Cards or their effects, meaning Sjette's effect cannot be applied!"

Sergey gasped, surprisingly not in shock, but in euphoria. "Curse that woman...!" Roget growled in a low tone. Just how many countermeasures did she have up her sleeve!?

The star-shaped machine returned to the battlefield through a GY Portal.

Vylon Stella: Light / Fairy / Tuner / Effect / ATK: 1400 / DEF: 200 / LV: 3

"Battle! Stella attacks Sjette!"

Following its user's command, the rings around Stella's tips lit up before shooting out circles of yellow energy at Sjette, cutting through the mechanical demon's chest and causing it to blow up.

"Valkyrie kicks Sergey's remaining behemoth back down to Hell!" Melissa cheered again. "She then proceeds to her second Main Phase! What will she do next!?"

"I tune the Level 3 Stella with the Level 4 Soldier!" as the star's body morphed into three green rings that surrounded the other machine and turned it into four stars, Valkyrie chanted. "The angel that shines at the zenith of the sky! Fly down to the Earth and part the darkness of our paths! Synchro Summon! Descend, Level 7! Vylon Lambda!"

Accompanied by an angelic choir, a sacred machine emerged from the bright beam that shot through the rings. It had an L-shaped pristine white body decorated with pale green highlights and gems, a halo glowing above its head like a crown, and two golden, mechanical wings sprouting from its back.

Vylon Lambda: Light / Machine / Synchro / Effect / ATK: 2600 / DEF: 1000 / LV: 7

"At this moment, I activate three effects." Valkyrie raised her index, middle, and ring finger. "Since Lambda was Synchro Summoned using only Vylons as materials, I can equip one 'Vylon' Equip Spell from my Graveyard to it. I select Component!"

The futuristic device reappeared in one of Lambda's hands. "Then, since Stella was sent from the Monster Card Zone to the Graveyard, I can target one face-up Monster I control and equip Stella to it. I target Lambda!"

The spectral image of Stella materialized in front of her Synchro Monster before exploding into particles that were sucked into its chest.

"I would have to pay 500 Life Points to use each of those effects, but as you're already aware, with Vylon Purity in play, I don't have to." the pink-haired woman reminded. "Lastly, Component, which was face-up on the field and was sent to the Graveyard, permits me to add one 'Vylon' Spell Card from my Deck to my hand. I select a new Segment, which I then equip!"

The golden ornament crackling with violet electricity appeared right under the angel's symbol on its chest.

"Now you cannot target Lambda with Monster and Trap effects." she stated. "By destroying the Component equipped to itself, I activate Lambda's effect! I draw one card!"

After doing so, "Component's effect activates once more, and I search the Spell Card Vylon Matter, which I then activate! By shuffling three Equip Spells from my Graveyard into my Deck, them being Nucleus, Segment, and Kay'est, I can either draw one card or destroy one card you control. Bid farewell to your Continuous Spell!"

A bright beam shot out of her Spell, piercing Void Imagination and causing it to shatter.

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

"You've filled your entire backrow... You're good, Valkyrie. This is really exciting...!" Roget frowned as Sergey continued to reveal more of his deranged personality, his limiter struggling to keep up with his enthusiasm. "Ore no turn! Draw! During my Standby Phase, I can activate Void Expansion's effect to Special Summon one Infernoid Token to my field!"

A human-sized canister that was attached to every 'Infernoid' Monster he used so far appeared through a miniature explosion of azure flames.

Infernoid Token: Fire / Fiend / Effect / ATK: 0 / DEF: 0 / LV: 1

"I activate the Spell Card Final Offguard!" Sergey declared. "If my Life is lower than yours and you control a Monster Special Summoned from the Extra Deck, I draw two cards! I banish the Token I control and Piaty and Sjette from my Graveyard to Special Summon this card! Consume the bodies of these lesser fiends and ascend from the Inferno, great king of calamity! Appear, Infernoid Onuncu!"

Azure flames burst to life under his section of the roof, from which a new, serpentine-bodied machine rose up, spreading its two wings wide with a bloodcurdling roar.

Infernoid Onuncu: Fire / Fiend / Effect / ATK: 3000 / DEF: 3000 / LV: 10

Valkyrie gritted her teeth at the sight of this new demon. "Piaty and Onuncu...those are the cards he dumped via Void Prison." Melissa recalled. "Sergey was keeping another ace up his sleeve! And it's the same size as Devyaty... Does that mean its effect is...!?"

"The opposite of the queen." Roget finished for her, now sporting an evil grin himself.

"Onuncu no kōka!" the gray-haired man raised a hand to the sky. "When this card is Special Summoned, I can destroy all other Monsters on the field! Supreme Plague!"

"Kauntā Torappu hatsudō: Wicked Transmission!" a card, which depicted three Vylons supposedly in agony as their bodies' white armor slowly darkened, appeared. "If you activate the effect of a Level 6 or higher Monster you control, I'm permitted to activate this by releasing one Monster of mine!"

Onuncu unleashed a spiraling wave of azure flames from the circle attached to its back, but before it would collide with Lambda, it vanished from existence through a bright flash.

"This turn, any battle damage I would take that is more than 500 becomes 500," Valkyrie explained. "Also, because Lambda was equipped with a card, the effects of my Spell and Trap Cards are negated and they cannot be removed from the field by your card effects this turn!"

"Our female star uses this chance to guarantee her survival!" Melissa shouted in relief.

"Becomes 500... Fufu, that means I can take lots of bites out of you." Sergey said. "It will be a feast! I activate the Trap Card Void Feast! By sending Void Expansion to the Graveyard, I can Special Summon up to three Infernoids from my Deck whose total Levels exactly equal 8 and by ignoring their Summoning conditions!"

A large explosion of azure flames occurred behind Sergey, from which three Infernoids emerged with their respective, mechanical cries, even causing the roof to shake lightly.

Infernoid Harmadik: ATK 1600 / DEF 0 / LV: 3

Infernoid Patrulea: Fire / Fiend / Effect / ATK: 1800 / DEF: 0 / LV: 4

Infernoid Decatron: Fire / Fiend / Tuner / Effect / ATK: 500 / DEF: 200 / LV: 1

"Three, just like that!?" Melissa's eyes widened, concerned again. "Without any restrictions!?"

"Decatron no kōka!" Sergey ignored her. "If this card is Normal or Special Summoned, I can send a different Infernoid from my Deck to the Graveyard. I choose Sjette!"

The head's lifeless eyes flashed yellow at those words. "In doing so, its Level increases by the dumped Monster's Level and it gains its name and effects! Then, I summon another Decatron, although I won't activate its effect."

A second bodiless head appeared on his field, and all Infernoids glared down at their foe, who continued to calmly stare back.

"Five Monsters..." Reira tightened the grip on her patchwork teddy bear. The Council looked uneasy for the first time during this Duel as well, especially White. "Her Life won't be depleted due to Wicked Transmission's effect, but...to take that many direct attacks from such Monsters..."

"What are you waiting for?" Valkyrie scowled, disgusted by how her foe was eyeing her, as if waiting for the moment she'll break under the pressure and beg for him not to attack. "Don't waste my time and get over with it, masochistic freak."

"B-BeautiFUUUUL!" however, those defiant words managed to push Sergey over the edge, prompting him to throw his head back and scream his lungs out at the night sky.

Roget punched his chessboard out of the blue, and his chess pieces scattered all over the place. "Damn woman...! Did she say that on purpose?" he asked no one in particular, glaring at the word 'ERROR' flashing over Sergey's limiter. He then sighed in exasperation. "No use crying over spilled milk. Victory is fully within Sergey's reach, anyway."

"Battle!" the said man spread his arms. "All-out attack! Decatron's effect inherited from Sjette activates!"

After banishing a copy of Lambda from her Extra Deck, Valkyrie didn't so much as flinch as each Infernoid let loose of a stream of flames from its mouth in her direction, turning her side of the roof into temporary Hell. The force of the assault soon proved to be too much for her to handle though, and she was flung against the railing behind her, letting out a pained cough.

Valkyrie: LP 4000 - 500 - 500 - 500 - 500 - 500 = 1500

"Rukia!" White cried out, while the rest of the Council and Reira gasped and Reiji silently frowned.

"I-In an instant, Sergey turns the tides in his favor!" Melissa stuttered. "Ah, look, she's standing back up! Are you alright, Valkyrie!?"

"What type...of question is that...?" the pink-haired woman muttered, using the railing to support herself. She luckily didn't break anything from that attack, but the pain in her back won't vanish quickly, either. "Still...thank you for your concern."

"You aren't out of the woods yet!" Sergey sneered. "I activate a new Void Imagination and use its effect! By sending this card to the Graveyard, I can use Monsters from my hand and field as materials—to Fusion Summon one 'Infernoid' Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck!"

"Of course he, too, was given Fusion..." Valkyrie clicked her tongue.

"AND!" Sergey went on. "If only my opponent controls a Monster Special Summoned from the Extra Deck, I can also use up to six Monsters in my Deck as materials!"

"What did you say?" Valkyrie gasped.

"S...S-S-Six!? From the Deck!?" Melissa was having a hard time processing that, a sentiment shared by all the viewers, except Roget who was grinning like a Cheshire cat. "Manek used the most number of materials to perform a Fusion Summon in the Friendship Cup so far, that being five...! He intends to top his record!?"

"Messengers of the Inferno who burn everything in their path!" six Infernoids appeared behind Sergey, and with four others that were already on his field, assumed a tree-like formation before spiraling into a rainbow-colored portal. "Become one and flood the entire world with the flames of purgatory! Fusion Summon! Come forth, Level 11! Infernoid Tierra!"

To slowly emerge from the portal was a mechanical demon possessing a jaw-droppingly long serpentine body, so long, in fact, it coiled itself around the structure the Hall of Dominion was perched on and it could still glare down at everyone on the roof as if they were mere bugs, overshadowing the entire building. The cameraman was even having a hard time getting a good shot of it due to its size.

Infernoid Tierra: Fire / Fiend / Fusion / Effect / ATK: 3400 / DEF: 3600 / LV: 11

Valkyrie stared at the newly summoned Monster with wide eyes. Melissa was left open-mouthed, unable to muster a single word. The Council and their guests were silenced. Roget, too, was struck dumb for a second, not recalling ever requesting such a colossal body for Tierra.

"That's nice~. I love those expressions!" Sergey, as one would guess, was still on cloud nine. "When Tierra is Fusion Summoned, I can apply various effects based on the number of materials with different names which were used for its summon. With ten, all of its effects are applied!"

The spheres of white and purple energy in his Fusion Monster's palms shone brighter at those words, conjuring dark clouds and crimson lightning bolts above the roof.

"We both send three cards from our Extra Decks to the Graveyard!" Sergey stated, and both players did just that. "We both mill the top three cards of our Decks! We both return up to three banished cards to the Graveyard! We both have zero cards in our hands, so the last effect which forces us to discard our entire hand is useless at the moment."

Good, I was able to draw advantage from that effect myself... Valkyrie reasoned with herself. She might be in a pinch, but at least she's gathered some useful cards in her GY.

"Phew! That kaiju only had an effect on-Fusion Summon." Melissa wiped her forehead with the back of her free hand. "I was expecting something much worse, but luckily—"

"Wrong! Wrong, wrong, wrong! WROOONG!" the reporter yelped as Sergey abruptly cut her off with his frantic screaming. "I'm not done yet! Tierra...I can make Tierra even more beautiful!"

"The Decatron you left behind...!" Valkyrie immediately realized his next move.

"Correct! This Decatron will help me turn Tierra into an exemplar of true beauty." Sergey said. "But first! I activate the effect of the only card I returned to the Graveyard from my Banish Zone, Void Evolution, banishing it again to shuffle my five banished Infernoids into the Deck and draw three cards!"

After doing so, he raised his hands to the sky. "It's time! I tune the Level 1 Decatron with the Level 11 Tierra!"

"That thing was also a Tuner!?" Melissa blanched.

As the head's body morphed into a green ring that surrounded the demonic machine and turned it into eleven stars, the Duelist Crusher chanted.

"Ancient god of destruction! Through the power of creation you stole from the venerated goddess, now, cast away your vulgar desires and embark on the path of empyrean rebirth! Synchro Summon! Stand above all, Level 12! Infernoid Abaddon!"

Accompanied by ghostly wails, two wings unfolded from the bright beam that shot through the rings, one with white feathers and golden tips akin to an angel's, and the other with dark scales and leathery membranes akin to a demon's. The light slowly dispersed, revealing the creature's body which, at a first glance, was identical to Tierra's, but upon a closer look, one could see a few of its parts weren't mechanical anymore like its wings. Its right arm and hand turned to red-brown flesh covered by white scales with black spikes zigzagging on them; there was a crack on the left side of its face, from which a yellow eye with a slitted pupil peeked out; actual flames were flowing out of the left side of its head like hair; several cracks were present on its tail, which occasionally pulsed with white and purple energy.

The Synchro Monster threw its back and let out a resounding roar, causing the entire building to shake.

Infernoid Abaddon: Fire / Fiend / Synchro / Effect / ATK: 3400 / DEF: 3600 / LV: 12

"From Fusion came Synchro." Roget chuckled. "That's right, show everyone the combined strength of the Fusion and Synchro Dimension!"

"Abaddon gains various effects based on the number of materials with different names which were used to Fusion Summon Tierra! With ten, all of its effects are unlocked!" Sergey explained. "I'll pluck your wings, you beautiful and arrogant angel! Once per turn, Abaddon forces us to send three cards from our Extra Decks to the Graveyard!"

"So its effect is somewhat similar to its predecessor..." Valkyrie frowned.

"Abaddon's other effect! Once per turn, we both mill the top three cards of our Decks, and for each Monster among them, you take 300 damage!" after doing so, "Three Monsters were sent to the Graveyard, meaning you take 900 damage!"

There was a loud clap of thunder above the battlefield, followed by a purple lightning bolt shooting down from the dark clouds and striking the female Duelist, earning a pained wheeze as she fell to her knees.

Valkyrie: LP 1500 - 900 = 600

"Rukia!" White leaped to his feet.

"Have confidence in her!" Reiji quickly advised the elderly man in order to calm him down together with the rest of the Council, as well as Reira who's been holding onto him in fear the moment Abaddon was revealed. Valkyrie used the railing again to get back to her feet. "She hasn't given up hope yet if she's standing back up. She can still picture herself winning this fight."

"I know that!" White glared at the youth, sounding insulted by the fact Reiji thought he didn't trust his granddaughter with his all. He then glanced at the projection in concern. "But how can I remain indifferent when she's being injured...?"

"Abaddon's other effect! Once per turn, I can return up to three of my banished cards to the Graveyard, and if I do, I can shuffle up to three cards from my Graveyard into the Deck and gain 500 Life for each! I return Awakening of the Void to the Graveyard and three Infernoids into the Deck to gain 1500 Life!"

A white, misty aura enveloped Sergey at those words.

Sergey: LP 2350 + 1500 = 3850

"I set a card!" the gray-haired man raised a hand and clenched it. "The last one! Abaddon no kōka! Both players send their entire hand to the Graveyard. In addition, you must banish three cards from your Graveyard, and for each one, Abaddon gains 200 Attack until the end of your next turn!"

"Those are too many effects on a single card...!" Valkyrie grumbled while removing three cards from her GY, to which the Synchro Monster's eyes flashed yellow.

(Abaddon: 3400→4000 ATK)

"The more, the merrier. For me, that is!" Sergey giggled at his own joke. "I can't summon or set other Monsters while I control Abaddon, but it alone is enough to hold you in check! Its attacks inflict piercing damage, and on top of its offensive effects, the first time it would be destroyed by battle each turn, it is not destroyed, and it is also unaffected by other card effects. I end my turn. Now, show me how you struggle, woman!"

"Terrifying! Appalling! Vicious! The Duelist Crusher's ace in the hole is simply otherworldly!" Melissa all but screamed. "Valkyrie can't lay a finger on it through card effects, and if she manages to surpass its lofty 4000 Attack, it can avoid destruction by battle once per turn! And that's not counting Awakening of the Void's Graveyard-effect!"

Her eyes narrowed in worry. "She can't hide behind a wall-Monster, either, and Sergey's Life is almost back at square one. The odds are stacked against her... Can she win...?"

"I can." a resolute answer to a distressed question. Everyone stared at Valkyrie; those who cheered for her regained confidence, and those who booed her were taken aback. It's as if she's never lost sight of the ray of hope in the darkness around her. "And I will."

"Aah~! That's it! That's the face!" Sergey proclaimed. "It doesn't say 'I'll win', but 'I've won'. To me, there's nothing in this world more beautiful than crushing those faces! I thank you from the bottom of my heart, Valkyrie, for letting me experience such happiness—"

"I've won, huh?" the female Duelist interrupted him. "Why are you standing there as my opponent, Sergey Volkov? You have no goals to aspire for, you take pleasure in breaking others...and you're simply following Roget's orders like an obedient dog. Of course I've won, because I won't allow myself to lose to the likes of you. I'll disobey even fate if I must."

She turned her head around, keeping a hand on the railing as she looked at the large town beneath them. The cityscape soon overlapped with an image from a past memory, and a smile graced her face before she realized it.

FLASHBACK

"No matter how many times I've seen it, I'm always at a loss for words when I see the City from up here." White admitted sheepishly to his six-year-old granddaughter he was firmly carrying in his arms on the roof of the Hall of Dominion.

Truth be told, this was also his favorite spot in the City; the view was simply breathtaking, especially at night. He decided to share this view with Rukia for the first time...but maybe he got ahead of himself.

"We're so high up...!" Rukia's eyes sparkled with excitement, but she was also scared, evident by how tightly she was holding onto her grandfather's suit. She always looked down at the City from behind a window, so it's no wonder she was frightened once that form of safety was gone. "Aren't you scared, ojii-chan?"

"Me? No, I'm not." White shook his head with a smile and stared at the City with a fond look. "You may not believe me, but I think it's beautiful."

That's when Rukia noticed it. That fondness in his eyes...she's only seen him look at three people the same way: Rukia herself, her mother, who was his own daughter, and her grandmother, who was his wife. They were his family, his rays of sunshine, and as a result, irreplaceable to him. If they were to vanish, would there be any reason to keep moving towards the future?

"Do you love the City, ojii-chan?" Rukia's childish yet weighty question earned herself an astonished look from White, followed by a light chuckle.

"Dear me, was I making it that obvious?" his gaze returned to the City. "Yes...very, very much."

When White was the same age as his granddaughter, he thought the City was marvelous, the best place on Earth. The division between Commons and Tops didn't exist back then and the City was truly peaceful. That concept was born when he was in his thirties, and the tension between the citizens became evident and discussed just a few years ago. That didn't stop him from loving his homeland, though.

"That's why I became a member of the Executive Council," White explained. "To protect this city I love, and to restore it to its former glory. Not for my sake, but for those who live here, those who will live here...and of course, for the sake of the City itself."

"Then I will help you!" Rukia suddenly threw her arms into the air, sporting a beaming smile. "I love the City, too! Every day is so much fun here, and there are so many things I haven't done yet! Let's restore its glory together, ojii-chan! Let's make it great again!"

"Rukia..." White looked at her in astonishment, and before he could control himself, a full-hearted laugh escaped him. Her words clearly struck a chord with him. "Yes, let's do it. Together!"

"It's a promise!" his granddaughter laughed along. "We will be the guardian angels of the City!"

Little did he know, that vow wasn't a mere spur-of-the-moment thing, but at that exact moment, he gained one of his strongest and most dependable allies in his endeavor.

END OF FLASHBACK

Eighteen years... Thinking about it, the years have gone by very quickly, haven't they? The wait was definitely worth it. Valkyrie lowered her hand and fully turned towards her foe. "Our City died when its citizens split into Commons and Tops. However, its glory didn't perish from our hearts. Hence why I chose the name 'Valkyrie' when I rose to this position. I, together with the Executive Council, am going to guide this fallen city and restore its glory!"

"Like a valkyrie would guide a deceased soul to Valhalla, allowing them to become an einherjar." Harald observed, watching the Duel from his private quarters. He smiled as the Ansuz rune came to life on his right eye. "A fitting name indeed. Nevertheless, she would make for a valiant valkyrie, right, Odin?"

"No one will rule the City. The City rules itself!" the pink-haired woman raised a finger. "When your next turn comes, I will lose, a truth I won't sugar-coat. But you left me a turn. That's more than enough."

She then aimed that same finger at her opponent. "This will be the Final Turn!"

"Pure arrogaaAAAAAAAANNCEEEEE!" Sergey roared in euphoria.

"D-Did I hear that right!?" Melissa was at a loss. "Despite the hopeless situation she's in, Valkyrie has just declared she'll put an end to this Duel in her next turn! Can she really do it!? Can our female star come through!?"

The King, Jack Atlas, let loose of a lopsided grin as he watched on from his own private quarters. He's been her teacher for nearly three years now, so he had no trouble envisioning her overcoming the obstacle currently in front of her. Having said that, he couldn't help but reflect on the journey that brought her to this exact moment.

"Taki Rukia, you've come a long way."

He hasn't lost to her once. He burned her down to ashes countless times, yet she rose up to her feet again and again, just like a phoenix. After training together and exchanging words so many times, the two eventually learned a lot about each other. Jack could say with certainty that no one loved the City more than Rukia, and White of course. They've been patiently waiting for the perfect chance to make this city great again, White through his position as the President of the Council and Rukia as the Valkyrie, the King's pupil. They've waited and endured it all together.

"Do it. Turn your dream into reality."

"Atashi no turn!" Valkyrie shouted. "DRAW! I summon Vylon Hept!"

The machine wearing large gauntlets appeared beside her, displaying its 1800 ATK to all viewers.

"Next, I activate Vylon Synthesis's effect from my Graveyard," Valkyrie explained. "I banish it and target Hept—"

"Useless! Useless, useless, useless! Torappu hatsudō: Void Prison!" Sergey cut her off. "I told you I'll pluck your wings, and unfortunately for you, I'm a man of my word when beauty is involved! I send the top two cards of my Deck to the Graveyard!"

After doing so, "Both of them are Infernoids! I banish Hept and Purity!" the same net of azure flames from before fell over her Monster and Field Spell, causing them to leave the field in a shower of particles.

Valkyrie stayed quiet in the face of this new development. "Oh no!" Melissa held her head in disbelief. "Her chance for a counterattack was just...!"

"It's over. Fufu, Sergey did it!" with a grin plastered on his face, Roget stood up from his seat and raised his hands to the ceiling. He could see it... His kingdom was right there at his fingertips! "The winner is me, Jean Michel Rog—!"

"Don't count your chickens before they hatch."

Roget's mouth comically hang open as his brain processed what Valkyrie's said. The corners of his lips eventually lowered, signaling he wasn't smiling anymore.

"Huh?"

"I activate the Trap I've set on my field, Back to the Front!" Valkyrie stated. "I target and Special Summon one Monster from my Graveyard in defense mode! Come back, Hept!"

A new Hept emerged from a GY Portal, crossing its fists in front of itself.

"I activate Vylon Deputy's effect from my Graveyard! I target the 'Vylon' Tuner Monster, Sphere, in my Graveyard and Special Summon it!"

As per her command, a sphere-shaped machine jumped out of a GY Portal with a cheerful sound.

Vylon Sphere: Light / Machine / Tuner / Effect / ATK: 400 / DEF: 400 / LV: 1

"By doing so, Deputy is equipped to the summoned Monster, and I can either raise or lower its Level by one. Obviously, I raise Sphere's Level to 2!" the said machine's eyes flashed blue at those words. "I activate Hept's effect. Once per turn, I can target one 'Vylon' Monster that's currently an Equip Card and Special Summon it in defense mode!"

A golden aura washed off of Sphere, which took the shape of a mechanical angel that had a similar design to Hept and Soldier but with crimson gems and golden, segmented wings attached to its shoulders instead of arms.

Vylon Deputy: Light / Fairy / Tuner / Effect / ATK: 800 / DEF: 1000 / LV: 4

"Alright! Our female star rebuilt her formation!" Melissa cheered, striking a guts pose. "Allowing her to send all those cards to the grave sure came back to bite Sergey! She's putting them all to good use!"

"Behold! What I'm going to show you...is my replica of the King's power!" Valkyrie threw an arm to the side. "The Level 2 Sphere and the Level 4 Deputy double tune the Level 4 Hept!"

"Double...!?" Reira's eyes widened in shock, a sentiment shared by the other viewers, except Jack who only grinned wider. "Such a Synchro exists...!?"

As the Tuners' bodies morphed into six rings of divine light that surrounded Hept, which turned into four stars, Valkyrie chanted.

"Grand, lustrous luminary! Become the true supreme envoy of the heavens and illuminate the earth with your light and glory! Synchro Summon! Descend, Level 10! Vylon Omega!"

A bright beam shot through the rings and traveled upwards, parting the clouds and revealing a golden sky behind them. Accompanied by the ringing of a church bell and a rain of white feathers, a menacing yet sacred machine slowly descended, spreading its dark wings wide as its eyes and the gems all over its body flashed to life in unison. While its size was nowhere near Abaddon's, it was on par with Devyaty and Onuncu, meaning it was nothing to laugh at.

Vylon Omega: Light / Fairy / Synchro / Effect / ATK: 3200 / DEF: 2900 / LV: 10

Roget became as pale as a ghost. "Impossible...! Why can she perform Double Tuning...!?"

"This type of Synchro was last seen three years ago, during the final match of the Friendship Cup in which Jack Atlas became the current King." Melissa recalled, eyeing the newly summoned Monster and its user in amazement. "She was able to develop her own Double Tuning...? And the King allowed it? Incredible..."

She tightened the grip on her mic as she smiled anew. "Simply incredible! Valkyrie continues to prove to us her might is the real deal! Will this new angel be able to send Sergey's strongest demon back down from where it came from!?"

"I can assure you, it will." the female Duelist proclaimed. "Deputy, which became an Equip Card through its own effect and was Special Summoned by Hept's effect, is banished upon leaving the field. Since Sphere was sent from the Monster Card Zone to the Graveyard, I can target one face-up Monster I control and equip Sphere to it by paying 500 Life Points!"

She flinched as a yellow aura enveloped her, after which the spectral image of Sphere materialized in front of her Synchro Monster and exploded into particles that were sucked into its chest.

Valkyrie: LP 600 - 500 = 100

"Omega no kōka hatsudō!" Valkyrie gestured forward. "Once per turn, I can target one 'Vylon' Monster in my Graveyard and equip it to this card. I target Prism!"

The same scene from seconds ago repeated itself, now with Prism.

"Next, I activate Gaiarmor Dragonshell's and Morphtronic Earfon's effects from my Graveyard, targeting Omega for both of them." who would've thought those cards she held on to since her childhood would play a big role at a time like this? "They're equipped to my target!"

Two new wings crackling with multicolored electricity suddenly emerged from her machine's back, and a pair of earbuds attached themselves to its head.

"Lastly, I activate Sphere's effect!" she stated. "By sending this Equip Card to the Graveyard, I can target one Equip Spell in my Graveyard and equip it to Omega. The card I target...is Mage Power!"

"Ah! Th-This is...!" Sergey's eyes trembled in glee.

"Mage Power raises the equipped Monster's Attack and Defense by 500 for each Spell and Trap Card I control," Valkyrie explained. "Counting my four Equip Cards and Vylon Plane, I have five!"

Followed by a burst of energy around itself, Omega clenched its fists once its ATK became 5700.

"It surpassed Abaddon's Attack..." Reira remarked in awe.

"Battle!" Valkyrie gestured forward. "Omega attacks Abaddon! Gaiarmor's effect activates when an attack is declared involving the equipped Monster, permitting me to draw one card once each turn! Prism's effect also comes into play, raising the equipped Monster's Attack by 1000 during the Damage Step only!"

"6700 Attack." Reiji adjusted his spectacles. "Sergey's Monster won't be destroyed due to its effect, but he still takes the damage."

Omega dived for Abaddon. The latter responded by releasing a stream of flames from its mouth, which the mechanical angel dodged with a barrel roll. It then raised one of its fists, prompting its foe to clench its own right fist, and their clash created an immense shock wave that traveled throughout the entire City and threw both Monsters back. Sergey groaned as the shock wave forced him to his knees.

Sergey: LP 3850 - 2700 = 1150

(Omega: 6700→5700 ATK)

"B-Beautiful...!" Sergey muttered while getting back to his feet. "But...it wasn't enough."

"No, it was." his eyes widened at that. "The Monster equipped with Earfon can make up to two attacks on Monsters during the Battle Phase! Go, my angel! Attack Abaddon once more! Omega Judgment!"

(Omega: 5700→6700 ATK)

The feathers of Omega's right wing detached themselves and flew away like drones, their tips shooting laser beams at the mechanical demon which had trouble catching them due to the big difference in their size. Each spot that was struck exploded, unmasking more and more of its actual body hidden underneath, and it might've been a trick of the light, but Valkyrie swore she saw a smirk on the behemoth's face before it threw its head back to roar.

The strength of the sound wave Abaddon unleashed threw the drones back, which reattached to Omega's wing. An orb of white and purple energy materialized in Abaddon's right and left hand respectively, which it then crushed in its grip, and it opened its mouth as energy of the same colors began charging in it.

In response, Omega pointed at the sky, invoking a lightning bolt that completely washed over the demon's upper body, causing it to explode before it could fire its attack. The ensuing shock waves sent a laughing Sergey bowling to the opposite side of the roof against the railing beside Valkyrie, bending it in the process, and he fell to the ground unconscious.

"You said it yourself." Valkyrie removed her glasses and side-glared at him. "That I've won."

Sergey: LP 1150 - 2700 = 0

Winner: Valkyrie!

Roget slammed his hands on his table and bit his tongue to avoid screaming out of pure frustration.

"That ONE time he needed to win...! That imbecile!" you can bet he'll punish Sergey for his incompetence once he returns. The Chief of Security glared at the pink-haired woman's departing back. "To think the King actually trained her...! Just how much did she and her grandfather have to plead with him for that to happen!? Damn them...! They used my coup d'état to their advantage!"

Security's image was damaged. It's true that won't put a stop to Roget's plans, but it will slow him down nonetheless, and for him to be humiliated like this... "You'll pay for this." he vowed as he picked up the black king that didn't fall off of his chess board and started applying pressure onto its head with his thumb. "You won't get away with this scot-free. Jack Atlas, you, too!"

The chess piece broke in two.

Fan-made Cards:

Valkyrie:

Vylon Purity

Field Spell

You do not have to pay LP to activate the effects of your "Vylon" cards. If you control a card equipped to a "Vylon" monster you control, Spells/Traps you control cannot be destroyed by your opponent's card effects. Your opponent cannot target monsters you control for attacks or with card effects, except the monster with the most cards equipped to it (either, if tied).

[Trivia: this card's name is a reference to purity, a theme in the mathematical field of algebraic geometry. "Vylon Sigma" and various Steelswarm monsters appear in its art. Lore: "In ancient times, the fiends called the Steelswarm had pushed the surface to the brink of extinction, so the Vylon sealed them deep within the earth..."]

Vylon Synthesis

Normal Spell

Special Summon 1 "Vylon" monster from your hand or Deck. You can banish this card from your GY, then target 1 "Vylon" non-Tuner monster you control; equip 1 "Vylon" Tuner monster from your Deck to that target. You can only use 1 "Vylon Synthesis" effect per turn, and only once that turn.

[Trivia: "Laval Cannon", "Vylon Stella", and "Vylon Element" appear in its art. Lore: "In order to combat the rampaging Steelswarms, the Vylons give a portion of their power to each of the four elemental tribes via Vylon Element..."]

Vylon Nucleus

Equip Spell

Equip only to a "Vylon" monster, and if you do, declare any number from 1 to 4; its Level becomes that number. It cannot attack, its effects are negated, and it is treated as a Tuner. If this face-up card on the field is sent to the GY: You can add 1 "Vylon" Spell Card from your Deck to your hand.

[Trivia: "Vylon Cube" appears in its art. Lore: "As mechanical angels, instead of a heart, every Vylon possesses a core in their body that keeps them operative and constantly connected to their hivemind..."]

Vylon Omicron (Light/Machine/Synchro/Effect/ATK: 2800/DEF: 1400/LV: 8)

1 "Vylon" Tuner + 1+ LIGHT non-Tuner monsters

If this card is Synchro Summoned using only "Vylon" monsters as Synchro Material: You can pay 500 LP; equip 1 "Vylon" monster from your GY to this card, treating it as if it was equipped by its own effect. You can target face-up Spells/Traps your opponent controls, up to the number of cards equipped to this card; negate the effects of that target(s) until the End Phase. You can only use each effect of "Vylon Omicron" once per turn.

[Trivia: Omicron is the 15th letter of the Greek alphabet.]

Vylon Plane

Continuous Spell

You can only control 1 "Vylon Plane". Your opponent cannot activate cards or effects in response to the activation of your "Vylon" Equip Cards or their effects. Once per turn: You can Special Summon 1 "Vylon" Tuner or Union monster from your hand.

[Trivia: a plane is a level of existence, thought, or development, while in mathematics, it is a flat, two-dimensional surface that extends indefinitely. Lore: "The nerve center of the Mobile Weapon System known as the 'Vylon' was situated in the heavens above, from where they observe the planet's surface and serve as its arbiters..."]

Vylon Lambda (Light/Machine/Synchro/Effect/ATK: 2600/DEF: 1000/LV: 7)

1 "Vylon" Tuner + 1+ Machine non-Tuner monsters

If this card is Synchro Summoned using only "Vylon" monsters as Synchro Material: You can pay 500 LP; equip 1 "Vylon" Equip Spell from your GY to this card. You can destroy 1 card equipped to this card; draw 1 card. You can only use each effect of "Vylon Lambda" once per turn.

[Trivia: Lambda is the 11th letter of the Greek alphabet.]

Wicked Transmission

Counter Trap

If your opponent activates the effect of a Level 6 or higher monster they control: Tribute 1 monster you control; this turn, any battle damage you would take that is more than 500 becomes 500, also, if a card was equipped to the Tributed monster, Spells/Traps you control cannot be removed from the field by your opponent's card effects, but their effects are negated. You can only activate 1 "Wicked Transmission" per turn.

[Trivia: "Vylon Pentachloro", "Vylon Tesseract", and "Vylon Stigma" appear in its art. Lore: "Noellia's scheme succeeded, and she managed to transmit the thoughts of the Steelswarm among the Vylon, causing them to go on a rampage..."]

Vylon Deputy (Light/Fairy/Tuner/Effect/ATK: 800/DEF: 1000/LV: 4)

If this card you control is used as Synchro Material for a "Vylon" monster, you can treat it as a non-Tuner. If this card is in your GY: You can target 1 other "Vylon" Tuner monster in your GY; Special Summon that target, and if you do, equip this card to it, but banish it when it leaves the field, and if you do that, you can increase or decrease its Level by 1. You can only use this effect of "Vylon Deputy" once per turn.

Sergey:

Void Evolution

Normal Trap

Target 1 "Infernoid" monster you control; it gains 700 ATK/DEF until the End Phase. You can banish this card from your GY, then target 5 of your "Infernoid" monsters with different names that are banished; shuffle them into the Deck, then draw 3 cards. You can only use this effect of "Void Evolution" once per turn.

[Trivia: "Wielding not only the powers of the Shaddolls, Qliphorts, and Infernoids, but also the 3 Ice Barrier dragons, El Shaddoll Anoyatyllis was strong enough to rival even that of the Goddess of Rebirth from the past..."]

Awakening of the Void

Quick-Play Spell

For each "Infernoid" monster on the field, all monsters you control gain 500 ATK/DEF, also, any battle damage they would inflict to your opponent cannot be halved, until the End Phase. If an "Infernoid" monster you control would be destroyed by battle: You can banish this card from your GY; this turn, "Infernoid" monsters you control cannot be destroyed by battle. You can only use each effect of "Awakening of the Void" once per turn.

[Trivia: "In the midst of their battle, Tierra's body underwent a sudden transformation, one that could tip the scales in its favor, but Zefraath's mind was completely elsewhere. Was it his imagination, or was the Source of Destruction...gaining a sense of self...?"]

Void Prison

Normal Trap

Send the top 2 cards of your Deck to the GY, then banish an equal number of face-up cards your opponent controls as the number of "Infernoid" monsters that were sent to the GY this way. If this card on the field is destroyed: Add 1 "Void" Spell/Trap from your Deck to your hand, except "Void Prison". You can only use each effect of "Void Prison" once per turn.

[Trivia: "In order to put an end to their battle, Zefraath sacrificed his body to once again seal Abaddon, this time deep underground where no light could reach. Thus, at the dawn of the 1000th day, the forms of the two giants were nowhere to be seen..."]

Infernoid Abaddon (Fire/Fiend/Synchro/Effect/ATK: 3400/DEF: 3600/LV: 12)

"Infernoid Decatron" + "Infernoid Tierra"

You cannot Summon/Set monsters. This card gains these effects, based on the number of materials with different names used for the Fusion Summon of its non-Tuner Synchro Material:

3+: If this card attacks a Defense Position monster, inflict piercing damage to your opponent. Once per turn: You can make each player send 3 cards from their Extra Deck to the GY. (If less than 3, they send their entire Extra Deck to the GY.)

5+: The first time this card would be destroyed by battle each turn, it is not destroyed. Once per turn: You can make each player send the top 3 cards from their Deck to the GY, and if they do, for each monster sent to the GY this way, inflict 300 damage to your opponent. (If less than 3, they send their entire Deck to the GY.)

8+: Unaffected by other card effects. Once per turn: You can return up to 3 of your banished cards to the GY, and if you do, you can shuffle up to 3 cards from your GY into the Deck, and if you do that, gain 500 LP for each.

10+: Once per turn: You can make each player send their entire hand to the GY, also, you can make your opponent banish 3 cards from their GY, and if they do, this card gains 200 ATK for each until their End Phase. (If less than 3, they banish their entire GY.)

[Trivia: "Decades passed since our fight. In those years of solitude, only my thoughts kept me company. If you could call them thoughts, that is. At the end of the day, what was I, if not a simple machine storing divine strength? Sophia was the same. We didn't 'think'; we run simulations. We didn't have 'free will'; our actions were delimited to a 'system'. Yet...over time, I realized I enjoyed our fight. It was exhilarating, trading blows as we did. I was happy to know I had found an equal. I...reached a new conclusion: I wasn't a machine. Not anymore, at least. During our fight, I evolved. You noticed it, didn't you? That's why you didn't kill me. You used that body—Zefraath—to trap me inside a cage, so that I could discover this myself. I'm grateful to you, for permitting me to experience what it means to think, to have free will—to live. The Source of Destruction was no more. What was left...was me, Abaddon. My memories as Tierra didn't vanish, however. My control over the concept of destruction still remains. But I...wanted more. Simply destroying sounded boring now. Was the power of Creation the cause of all of this? Hm, I have plenty of time to figure it out, on my own. As for you, I wish you the best of luck on your new journey. May you create the world you seek...and may our paths cross again in the future, Gem-Knight Crystal, my dear friend.]

This was supposed to be a little break from the Friendship Cup, so how did this chapter end up so long!?

A quick thank you to Haoh Ryu Z-ARC who helped me with Infernoid Abaddon. I still don't understand why the archetype has its own Tuner but not a Synchro Monster, so I took this chance to finally give them one. Don't forget about Abaddon, OK? I have some plans for it later on in the story, which aren't tied to Sergey, but to another character...

A question you might have is why Infernoids? Well, considering everyone was acting as if it was the first time they see Sergey in action when he Dueled Yuzu, I decided to give him a different deck to explain that, which is what he used against Damon. I ended up with Infernoids because they have a Fusion Monster, which would tie it well with Roget, as well as a Tuner.

And why not the Zombie deck I gave him in the story's previous version? Considering the importance the Signer Dragons have in the plot and that Aki also possesses Black Rose's manga version this time around, I wanted to avoid Sergey having Dragonecro and Beelze, who would also technically be the Crimson Dragon's children.

As I was writing this, though, I realized I made an error regarding Vince and the archetypes he knows from his world. Ritual Beasts, for example, debut in Secrets of Eternity, and Pendulums were already integrated into the game, yet Vince knew nothing of them. Which is why I made it so Pendulums first appear in Clash of Rebellions in his world, the set in which Infernoid Decatron debuts as well, but by then he's already in ARC-V, hence why he wasn't familiar with Sergey's Tuner.

Also, all Infernoids mention Rank in their texts...sometimes I'm bad at reading. Please, just pretend that isn't written so it makes sense for this to be Sergey's past deck.

I didn't want to steal Jack's title as "the first Duelist to perform a Double Tuning in the story", which is why I made Melissa say that after Omega's summon. And listen! I seriously didn't want to make Valkyrie so many fan-made cards, but damn, Vylons need some good support.

A huge thank you to LegionnaireBlaze who—back when I was still writing IANW—suggested having the Council actually do something in the plot, and inspired me to create Valkyrie and this entire chapter! I didn't like how the Council was handled in the anime either, so I had a lot of fun writing this!

Reviews really make my day and it's a great way to communicate with you readers, and maybe find out errors I can avoid making. Please review, and with that said, here's the chapter's last scene!

A card appeared on the screen before turning around, revealing Vylon Omega. It suddenly glowed, filling the screen with white light. Once it died down, we were back on the roof of the Hall of Dominion, where Melissa stopped Valkyrie for an interview before she could've left.

"That was an amazing display of your strength, Valkyrie!" the reporter praised her. "Do you have anything to add?"

"Hmm." as the winner of the Duel, Valkyrie was in quite a good mood, even if she was doing a great job at concealing it, and she decided to indulge the viewers. "Instead of one Secret of the Chapter, I guess I will reveal three...no, five of them."

"F-Five, you say!?" Melissa's eyes literally sparkled with excitement. "Please, go ahead!"

"Very well. The first," Valkyrie raised a finger. "My seiyuu is Megumi Toyoguchi. The second: my battle theme is Eternal Flame from Arknights. Oh, and speaking of Arknights, the third Secret is that SakushiRyu took inspiration from Schwarz's Skyline skin when designing me. The fourth: my summoning chants are inspired by Jack Atlas's, which shouldn't come as a surprise."

The fifth finger was raised. "Lastly, Omega's attacks were inspired by The Oracle Twenty One Pillars XXI The World's own attacks from Battle Spirits: Mirage."

"To think you would bless us with five Secrets...! You aren't just a female star, but a kind angel!" Melissa pointed her mic in our direction, prompting the pink-haired woman to wave at us with an impassive expression. "Well, that's all for today, folks! Top reporter from Top City TV, Melissa Claire, and Valkyrie signing out!"

The screen faded into black, followed by the words [To Be Continued...].