Sorry for the long wait! Ever since school started, my bag's been pumped with homework and tests and there was a huge exam I had to take before. It was really bothersome, but the storm's passed...for now.
That said, let's get to it!
Disclaimer: Mage of Hope doesn't own Yu-Gi-Oh series, only the OCs!
Mist arose and surrounded the dark night as the waves clashed softly against each other in the endless sea. Other than the sounds of the wind howling and the waves striking one another, silence filled the atmosphere.
Emerging from the maze of mist, a gondola aimlessly swam the ocean waters while several bats suddenly started spreading the air around the gondola as if expecting something. Inside the gondola was a coffin half-covered by a sheet. The coffin crept opened by itself and a figure sat up.
The figure, despite the darkness of the night and the hazy mist around, was identified as a young, beautiful woman whose appearance seemed dull except for one particular thing about her. Her red, blood colored lips, which changed into a smirk as she opened her mouth to reveal sharp fangs...
"..." Staring down at Jaden's unconscious figure was Syrus, who was pondering what to do, clasping his shaky hands together as he sat down on a chair besides her bed. The more he spent time with Jaden, the more his crush for her became unbearable. Right now, he wanted to swoop down and kiss her on the lips, hoping it'd be just like Snow White or Sleeping Beauty.
But...what if he kisses her, and she wakes up? Yeah, it'll be great that she's awake and well, but she might also realize that he kissed her without her permission. What if she doesn't like that at all and hates him for the rest of his life? What if he screws this up? If...If he does do this, then he's pretty bold, doing this in the infirmary with Fonda around.
'Gah! I can't take it anymore!'thought Syrus, making up his mind. He leaned forward slowly, closing his eyes and pinning both his hands on both sides of Jaden's head, preparing to take what was going to be his first kiss.
Emphasis on 'going to be his first kiss.'
"AAAAAAHHH!" Eyes snapping wide, Jaden awoke from her friend and instinctively sat up. Or, at least she tried to. Since Syrus was close to her, their foreheads collided with so much force, both of them pulled back, clutching their foreheads in pain.
'Waaaaahh! I was so close!' Syrus mentally complained before focusing his attention on Jaden, hoping she was alright.
At first, Jaden felt instant pain on her forehead when it hit something hard, but now that she was moving around, the injuries from her Shadow Duel with Nightshroud took their effect and started to strain Jaden, causing her to wrap her arms around her stomach where some of the injuries reside.
"Jaden! Are you alright?" asked Syrus, worried as he placed his gentle palm on top of Jaden's.
"I..." Taking a deep breath, Jaden recalled what her mysterious dream was. "I had...a dream..."
"A dream?"
"Are you awake, Jaden?" called out Fonda.
"Oh, Ms. Fontaine! How's Nightsh-I mean, Alexis' brother?" asked Jaden.
Reverting towards the bed where Atticus laid unconscious, Fonda replied, "Well, he hasn't woken up yet, but he's in stable condition, so he'll be alright."
Like Ms. Fontaine said, Atticus was lying on another infirimary bed, covered in the bed covers with Alexis watching over him with a concern look on her face, refusing to leave his side after being reunited with him after so long. His breathing seemed a bit ragged but he wasn't in any danger as a
Meanwhile, unknowst to anyone, Jaden's dream wasn't a dream, but rather a prediction as the woman raised her arms into the dark night, speaking in a commanding tone, "Go, my minions! Find me my prey, so that we may succeed where Nightshroud has failed!"
Her bats hurried to obey her command, flying towards Duel Academy Island as the woman stood up straight, holding a rose near her bosom while she smirked in excitement over the upcoming events and who the rest of her challenging foes might be.
The next day...
"Vampire?!" cried out Chazz, shocked to hear such a mythical creature being mentioned by the Chancellor himself. And here, he thought all sorts of myths were...well, myths!
Gathered inside the Chancellor's Office were 5 of the holders of the Spirits Keys; Zane, Chazz, Crowler, Bastion, and Banner, who were called upon by Sheppard himself. Jaden was already too injured to come and Alexis was busy tending to her brother's side, so Sheppard was sympathetic enough to allow her out of the meeting.
"That gossip is currently the talk of the entire academy," explained Sheppard. "I'm afraid the rumors may not be rumors after all."
"Oh, my! An actual vampire? That is indeed frightening!" admitted Banner.
"Please!" scoffed Crowler. "There's no way a vampire actually exists! It's a mythical joke!"
"A joke?" questioned Bastion sternly as he crossed his arms. "It wasn't a joke when Jaden was put in the hospital. Furthermore, if this 'vampire' rumor is true, and if it's involved with the Shadow Riders..."
"There's a good chance that this vampire is already on the island," finished Zane, figuring out what Bastion was going to say.
Concern about the new situation at hand, Sheppard glanced at everyone. "Everyone, I sincerely ask that you don't let your guard down no matter what. Be on the lookout for anything strange!"
Bastion, Zane, and Chazz nodded firmly while Crowler and Banner nervously chuckled while glancing at one another. It would appear as though they didn't like the idea of a blood-sucking mythical creature lurking around in the shadows of Duel Academy, where she could potentially suck their blood in the middle of the night anytime, anywhere.
Later, Chazz was sitting on his dorm room floor, rearranging and forming up new combos for his deck in preparations for his duel. "Waiting for an opponent to come and challenge me doesn't really suit me," he mumbled under his breath as he checked out his cards.
Unknown to him, a bat was hanging upside down at the corner of the ceiling, examining Chazz's every movements along with studying every details of his cards as its eyes glowed red.
Some more bats laid in hiding within dark places, eavesdropping and watching not just Chazz, but Zane, Bastion, and even Crowler. As for Banner...he was the only other one out of the five not studying his cards, but rather trying out ways to ward the supposed vampire away, waving a spiritual stick around along with wearing spiritual robes, a headband, and even covering his room with garlic everywhere.
Needless to say, Banner wasn't even worth checking out.
In the meantime, Jaden had fallen asleep after being given treatment and medicine from Fonda, being instructed to get as much rest as possible. While Syrus was watching over the sleeping Jaden, Alexis came by to check up on the girl.
"How's she doing?" the Obelisk Blue girl asked.
"She hasn't said anything since last night," said Syrus, looking worried and discouraged. "So, how's your brother, Alexis?"
Shaking her head, Alexis didn't need to directly tell him that Atticus still hasn't awaken yet. "Pretty much the same. But he'll get better. I know it. He's a fighter, you know?"
"I know!" Syrus agreed, nodding in agreement.
"But..." Her confident smile changed towards a worriesome expression. "I wonder how long these duels will last? After all, it sounds as though the next Shadow Rider is here."
A bat in hiding decided that it had seen enough before quietly flying back to its mistress for the upcoming reports it needed to bring.
Somewhere on the island, inside the bathroom...
The female vampire laid against the warm water shielded by various bubbles that she had prepared for her lovely bath. Rose petals floated on top of the water, creating a flowery aroma which entinced the entire bathroom.
She opened her eyes after sensing one of her loyal bats flying towards her and lifted a hand in order for her bat to land on top of. "Ah, my darling...What is our competition?"
The bat's eyes glowed red and all the information is gathered transferred onto the female vampire's mind, causing her to chuckle in satisfaction at her competitors."Oh...I can see them all...all yours strategies...Now...which one will be my first..."
When her eyes laid upon a certain dark blue haired duelist with a serious expression, she instantly became attracted by his handsome appearance. "You...You will be my first!"
In the Chancellor's Office later on...
"Good news, Chancellor! We searched the whole campus!" announced Chazz, reporting in with Zane, Bastion, Crowler, and Banner alongside him. "And there's no-"
"VAMPIRE!" Barging in and intruding, Chumley panted as he revealed what he knew. "*Pant*We've got trouble! I saw her! She's...she's at the lake!"
Astonished, Sheppard stood up from his seat while the others were determined to check out the source of his information. So, the enemy has shown herself...That meant no mercy at all, especially when one of their Shaodw Riders has caused enough damage to both Atticus and Jaden.
Outside of the lake, the fog made it hard to see clearly, making the others, who just arrived, to see nothing but the endless ocean as well as the continuous shrouding fog.
A red carpet rolled down from the endless ocean, reaching at the feet of the land; Duel Academy Island. Somehow, the red carpet made it seem as though the ocean was a physical surface to stand on, otherwise, the carpet would have already pummeled underwater by now. Perhaps this was the works of the vampire's powers?
"She's coming..." warned Zane, staying alert for anything that happens.
"What now?" wondered Bastion as Crowler and Banner snuck and hid behind the three strong-willed students; Zane, Bastion, and Chazz.
"We have to rise to the challenge."
"Who's going first?" questioned Chazz. "'Cause if nobody calls up, I'm going first!"
Accidentally, both teachers collided with each other with their backs turned, causing them to shriek and for Crowler to leapt out as if he wished to go first. Not wanting the others to know he was scared, Crowler quickly said, "I-I'll go first! Yes! That's what I intended to do all along!"
"Wow, that's very impressive of you, Dr. Crowler!" praised Chumley, crossing his arms and nodding with a proud look.
"Yes, we'll be right behind you!" encouraged Bastion.
"By a good ten feet away!" added in Banner cheerfully. "In a way, you'll be representing the professors!"
"Eep?!" Swiftly facing the others, Crowler tried to find an excuse to get out of this peculiar situation. "O-Of course, I'll be going first! Ahaha...! But, why don't we pick straws to see who goes first? That way, it'll be fair!"
"Sorry, Crowler! You're up," said Chazz, having already figured out what was on Crowler's mind. It didn't take an idiot to see how cowardly Crowler was.
A few minutes later, in the infirmary...
"We've got trouble!" cried out Chumley, bursting inside, disrupting the two injured patients' rest. "Dr. Crowler's gonna duel against the vampire lady!"
"What?! Tell me you're kidding!" said Syrus, standing up from his stool.
Concern, Alexis tore her attention away from the unconscious Atticus to the new subject at hand. "That's crazy! It's absurd that he's starting another dangerous duel like that!"
Blinking her eyes awake, Jaden overheard the conversation and grew worried for her teacher. Sure, he may be an egotistic, self-centered jerk like Chazz at times, but she still cares for him. Besides, she's already gotten her revenge by beating him in a duel. If Crowler was weaker than her, which he would never admit out loud, and since Jaden just recently got injured from a tough duel with a Shadow Rider, the results will be catastrophic for Crowler should he actually go through with this duel.
Winged Kuriboh appeared and poked Jaden in the cheek, trying to make her feel better. He didn't like that teacher either, but he would never wish actual life-threatening harm to him just as Jaden would never wish for the same thing.
At the lake...
Crowler was screwed, no doubt about that. The signs of his fear were revealed through his trembling body, and it wasn't even that cold outside.
"Hey, you okay?" asked Chazz, a little bit worried. He knew there was a chance Crowler might screw up in his duel, considering he's all talk and no bark.
"I'm just swell!"
A slight, strong gust of wind instantly vaporized the fog as though it was nothing, revealing that at the end of the red carpet was a female, green-haired woman standing on a gondola, surrounded by her precious bats.
"Gentlemen...why don't I just come to you?" the woman said before stepping off the gondola and perfectly walking down the red carpet. The person in front of her...was this supposed to be her opponent? "And who might you be?"
"Y-your opponent!"
'You? I don't think so. How unpleasant,' thought the female vampire, displeased. 'But, I wouldn't mind a change of pace...' By that, she was glancing at Zane for a moment before looking back at Crowler.
"You are not worthy!" she stated bluntly, shocking Crowler.
"I BEG YOUR PARDON?! I HAVE A P.H.D. IN DUELING! I DIDN'T COME ALL THIS WAY FOR NOTHING, YOU KNOW!" hollered Crowler; a tick mark appearing at the corner of his head.
"Fine!" said the female vampire, finding a little bit amusement to his reaction. "If you're that anxious to lose your key, then you shall lose to me in a Shadow Duel! I, Vampire Camula, mistress of the Shadow Riders, shall be your opponent!"
She bowed slightly as a polite gesture before glancing up; her red eyes glowing as bats flew around her as if this was her grand entrance.
"Oh, so she is the rumored vampire everyone is talking about!" commented Banner.
"Hmph! Your tricks don't scare me!" said Crowler. "So, what are the winning terms of this duel?"
"Quite simple, really," started Camula. "If I win, I get your Spirit Key, and your soul, and it'll stay trapped in this little doll." To prove her point, she held up a small, lifeless doll right between her fingers.
"You want to take his soul and the key?!" exclaimed Bastion, finding the terms to be a bit unfair.
"You serious? Forget it!" shouted Chazz.
"What utter nonsense!" laughed Crowler, getting a bit too overconfident. "You expect me to believe in such fairy tales? You're better off telling those to another idiotic fool than me!"
Smirking darkly, Camula opened her mouth slightly, but enough for everyone to notice the sharp fangs she bared. "Be careful what you wish for...It may just come back to bite you! Now then, Key Keeper! Let's duel!"
"Gladly!"
Both opponents walked back for more distance between themselves and initiated their duel disks, preparing for their first Shadow Duel and for the fight for their souls along with the possession of the Spirit Key.
"DUEL!"
- DUEL -
Camula - 4000 LP
VS
Crowler - 4000 LP
"I'll take the first move! Draw!" announced Camula. "I summon Zombie Werewolf in Attack Mode!"
A muscular werewolf wearing torn pants, yet baring sharp fangs and claws as his primary weapons howled at the sight of the full moon.
Zombie Werewolf - (DARK/Zombie) - LV4 - (1200/1200)
"And I'll end my turn with a facedown card!"
Crowler scoffed and smirked at his brilliant thinking. "Please, what do you take me for? That facedown is clearly a trap, and that Monster is obviously the bait! But even so, I'll bite. My turn, draw! First, I'll activate the Continuous Spell, Ancient Gear Castle!"
With the ground rumbling, a fortress-like castle armed with cannons and other gear-like weapons spawned from the ground, appearing behind Crowler as it acted as a means for both offense and defense.
"Then, I'll summon Ancient Gear Soldier in Attack Mode!"
Kneeling a bit as if pledging his life towards fighting, a large, mechanical soldier wielding a multi-shooting rifle in his palms appeared.
Ancient Gear Soldier - (EARTH/Machine) - LV4 - (1300/1300)
Ancient Gear Soldier - (EARTH/Machine) - LV4 - (1600/1300)
"Alright! Thanks to Ancient Gear Castle, the Attack Points of any Ancient Gear Monsters rises by 300 Points!" exclaimed Bastion, impressed that Crowler made a good move.
"Furthermore, Ancient Gear Soldier has an incredibly useful ability," commented Zane. "Whenever that Monster attacks, the opponent can't activate Magic or Trap cards until the end of the Damage Step."
"With that said and done, it's time to attack!" shouted Crowler. "Magnetized Fury!"
The barrel of the rifle started rapidly spinning in place as Ancient Gear Soldier commenced a fury of attacks onto Zombie Werewolf. The Monster let out a howl of pain before being destroyed as Camula stayed calm, unfazed by the destruction of her Monster.
Camula - 3600 LP
Crowler - 4000 LP
"That actually wasn't half bad. Crowler actually did something good for a change!" admitted Zane, impressed. It takes a lot to impress the young man, and considering the fact that Crowler was older and has a lot more experience, it didn't take too long for Zane's approval.
"That was fun! I should get out of the classroom more often! That was certainly a magnificant attack!" squealed Crowler; his heart pounding with excitement. So, this is how fun dueling can be! Crushing your opponents into tiny little bits!
"Is that so? Then, I shall have fun enjoying my own magnificent counterattack," spoke Camula, smirking. "Be revived, Zombie Werewolf!"
Zombie Werewolf - (DARK/Zombie) - LV4 - (1700/1200)
"But how?!" gasped Crowler, his energetic attitude diminishing the second he saw the Zombie Werewolf return, stronger than before.
"Ah, my apologies. I must have forgotten to tell you that, when Zombie Werewolf is destroyed in battle, I can Special Summon another one from my deck and raise his Attack Points by 500."
The rest of the Key Keepers weren't impressed the second they heard of Zombie Werewolf's effect. Wasn't Crowler supposed to know stuff like that? He's a skilled teacher with a P.H.D. in dueling after all. He even admitted to having one a few minutes ago.
"And he's supposed to be teaching us?" questioned Chazz.
"Hey, weren't you supposed to know that?" wondered Bastion.
Realizing that his reputation as a skilled duelist was at stake, Crowler quickly defended himself. "E-everything's under control! I place one card facedown and end my turn!"
"Why, thank you. It's my turn," Camula said politely. "I summon Vampire Bat in Attack Mode!"
A small group of bats acting as one Monster appeared side by side Zombie Werewolf.
Vampire Bat - (DARK/Zombie) - LV3 - (800/1200)
"And with my wicked friend on the field, every Zombie-Type on the field gains 200 extra Attack Points including itself!"
Zombie Werewolf - (DARK/Zombie) - LV4 - (1900/1200)
Vampire Bat - (DARK/Zombie) - LV3 - (1000/1200)
"Now, I'll attack Ancient Gear Soldier with my Zombie Werewolf! Howling Slash!"
Surged with new strength hidden within, Zombie Werewolf rushed forward in a much faster speed, slashing Ancient Gear Soldier in a matter of seconds and leaving his remains in ruins.
Camula - 3600 LP
Crowler - 3700 LP
"Please, that was nothing!" laughed Crowler confidently. "I've still got more Life Points!"
"Yes, but not for long! That was only the beginning!" corrected Camula. "Vampire Bat, attack him directly!"
Shrieking in unison, the group of bats began swarming around Crowler, biting him in small, but multiple areas while unleashing their supersonic waves on him. Gripping his head and trying to bear the pain, it took everything out of Crowler not to scream out loud.
'T-this pain...! It's not some mere hologram! This...is real! The Shadow Games really do exist!' thought Crowler, fear overtaking his heart at the realization that his life was actually at stake here.
Camula - 3600 LP
Crowler - 2700 LP
"Heh, I end my turn," spoke Camula, smirking as she watched her opponent groveling in pain.
Meanwhile, in the infirmary...
"Professor Crowler's really in big trouble!" cried out Syrus as he, along with Chumley and Alexis witnessed the duel from Syrus' PDA. "That looks pretty painful!"
"Well, at the very least, the others should have all the proof they need that Shadow Games really do exist," spoke Alexis.
Jaden opened her eyes, and glanced at the direction where Syrus and the others were. She couldn't really see much, but she did managed to catch a glimpse of Crowler being attacked by bats. Everyone assumed that she was asleep, so they left her alone, but with her teacher in agonizing pain, there's no way she can let anyone else suffer like this!
Hearing some shuffling noises from the bed, Syrus turned and saw Jaden grunting in pain while trying to get up. Chumley and Alexis noticed as well, and the three of them ran up to Jaden, pushing her down on the bed.
"L-let me go! I have to stop the duel! Crowler's getting hurt!" cried out Jaden, struggling, though her strength was faltering due to her body still weakened and the fact that three people's combined strength was outweighing hers.
"Jaden, don't worry! The others will take care of it!" replied Alexis, trying not to hurt her friend too much.
"You've done enough! Just rest!" said Syrus.
"Yeah, you need your rest!" agreed Chumley.
Back to the duel...
"So, how does it feel, being tormented by the underlings of the dead?" insulted Camula, smirking at the battered form of Crowler, who had bite marks all over his body, even his face.
Crowler gritted his teeth, wiping some blood off of some of his wounds as he was kneeling on one foot, trying to get up and resume the duel.
Seeing the pitiful, weak human struggling, Camula sighed, deciding to feel some pity for him. "Listen, dear...You don't have to endure this. Step down, and I shall duel him in your place." Who she was staring at was now directly towards Zane, something the others picked up as well.
"Heh, congrats, Zane. Looks like you're her type," teased Chazz, also mentally cheering since that's one less rival off his list for something other than dueling.
"So, how about it? It's not too late to change," offered Camula. "Just exchange your student with yourself, and you're free to go."
"As tempting as that may be..." grunted Crowler before standing up straight, furious that Camula would offer such a despicable offer like that. "I WON'T LET YOU LAY A SINGLE FINGER ON ONE OF MY STUDENTS! Do you understand?! I'm the leading professor of the most famous Duel Academy in the world! And if you want to get to my pupils, you'll have to go through me first!"
"But, you can barely stand, Crowler!" shouted Chazz, worried for the teacher. He may be a prick at times, but no way did he ever deserve to be treated like this!
Crowler forced a grin, no matter how painful it may be to form, turning to Chazz. "D-don't worry...! I've still got my deck...and a few tricks...up my sleeve! Like this, for example! I activate my facedown Trap card, Damage Condenser! Due to it's effect, I can Special Summon one Monster from my deck with Attack Points less than or equal to the damage I took this turn! And I Special Summon that Monster in Attack Mode! And the Monster I've chosen is Ancient Gear Soldier!"
Another Ancient Gear Soldier popped out, and due to the effect of Ancient Gear Castle, his Attack Points increased by 300.
Ancient Gear Soldier - (EARTH/Machine) - LV4 - (1600/1300)
"And now, it's my turn. Draw!" continued Crowler. "I'll sacrifice Ancient Gear Soldier to Tribute Summon Ancient Gear Beast in Attack Mode!"
An animalistic armored Monster with the appearance of a beast-like hound dog approached the field, growling at the opponents before him. Once again, due to Ancient Gear Castle's effect, he also gains an additional 300 Attack Point boost.
Ancient Gear Beast - (EARTH/Machine) - LV6 - (2300/2000)
"And now, I'll use Ancient Gear Beast to attack your Zombie Werewolf!" shouted Crowler.
"Wait, don't do it!" called out Chazz, recalling Zombie Werewolf's nasty effect. "If you destroy the werewolf, she'll just bring him back over again! Hello?!"
"Appreciate the advice, but you're forgetting all about my beast's ability," spoke Crowler. "Ancient Gear Beast's special ability allows him to negate the effect of a Monster he destroyed in battle!~"
Bastion sighed in relief. "Clever calculations!"
Banner agreed as well. "Yes, good thinking!"
With all the confusion aside, Crowler faced Camula once more with new resolution. "Now, attack her annoying Zombie Werewolf!"
Ancient Gear Beast pounced on top of the opponent's Monster, biting his fangs onto a fatal spot of the Zombie Werewolf before he was destroyed.
Camula - 3200 LP
Crowler - 2700 LP
Camula's confident attitude vanished once she realized that her Zombie Werewolf's ability was no longer effective. Not only that, but her worthless opponent had the stronger Monster on the field at the moment.
"Haha! How's that?" Crowler said, his overconfidence getting the best of him yet again. "If you'd like some help with some dueling strategies, feel free to stop by my class!"
"Maybe Crowler's lesson plans do work," admitted Chazz.
Sweatdropping, Bastion gave an awkward smile. "Quiet. He'll only give us more homework."
"Hmm...Nice move. My turn," said Camula. "I now cast the Field Spell, Infernalvania!"
Shaking like an earthquake, a brand new castle just as grand and large as Ancient Gear Castle sprung up, resembling like Dracula's castle.
Recalling the disastrous effects of the Field Spell, Crowler cried, "B-but that's a forbidden Field Spell! Not only that, but you'll destroy everything with that!"
"Exactly!" said Camula, intent on using the effects. "By discarding one Zombie-Type Monster from my hand, I can send every creature that's on the field straight to the Graveyard!"
"Heh, that's true. But, don't you forget!" called out Chazz, being smug. "If you activate that effect, you won't be allowed to Normal Summon or Set this turn!"
"That's true, but surely you haven't forgotten to mention a certain effect from one of my Monsters...right, Professor Crowler?" Now it was Camula's turn to be smug as she focused the attention onto Crowler.
A little sweat dripped from his forehead as Crowler already knew what she was saying. "T-that's...! Your Vampire Bat's ability-!"
"Ah, so you do know! When he's destroyed, by simply sending another Vampire Bat from my deck to the Graveyard, I can negate his destruction!"
Shocked, the spectators gasped as they grew worried for Crowler. If her vampire Monster is left unharmed on the field, Crowler's going to take more terrible damage, worst than before!
"Now I discard one of my Zombie Monsters to activate Infernalvania's effect," announced Camula.
The moment she's done so, the castle's surrounded glowed red as its effect began to take toll on all the Monsters on the field. Ancient Gear Beast and Vampire Bat burst into pieces, though Vampire Bat's remains scattered around the field like rose petals.
"And like I said, by discarding another Vampire Bat from my deck to the Graveyard, I can negate my Vampire Bat's destruction. And with that done, attack! Bloody Spiral!"
The group of bats swirled together rapidly, forming a miniature tornado as they lunged towards Crowler. Once close, they resumed biting him and letting loose their soundwaves, injurying Crowler furthermore as he yelled in pain.
Body trembling with anger and a rising urge to help him out, Zane muttered to himself, "He needs our help!"
As if hearing Zane, Crowler shook his head, trying to fight off the pain. "S-Stay back! This is my duel! You must take this as a lesson not to mess things up! You must...protect your keys...!"
Having finished what seemed to be his final words, Crowler collapsed on the ground, blood dripping onto the soiled dirt from his injuries.
Camula - 3200 LP
Crowler - 1700 LP
Shocked, the only noises heard were the gasping sounds coming from the Spirit Key holders along with the flapping of the wings and hissing from the Vampire Bat Monster. Bastion was the first to try to run up to Crowler, only to back away when the Vampire Bat turned their attention to him.
"Crowler! We can't just stand here and do nothing!" said Zane, ready to jump in and take over Crowler's place. Crowler's tried his best to protect his students, so now, as the top student of the academy, it's time for him to live up to his own reputation and fight against the nasty Shadow Rider.
"Yes, I completely agree with you, darling," agreed Camula. "Please, step in. Save your teacher, because obviously, he can't save himself!"
"YOU'VE GOT THAT WRONG!"
Reverting to the direction of the voice, everyone was surprised to see Syrus carrying Jaden on his back. Well, he was having trouble, so Chumley helped by pushing Jaden up so she wouldn't fall off.
"Dr. Crowler is definitely strong! No doubt about it!" continued Jaden, defending Crowler even more.
Waking from being unconscious for a little while, Crowler heard the voice of the person he disliked the most. "I know that voice...Slacker...!"
"I know because I've dueled him before! Believe it! Sure, he can be overconfident, rude, mean, wears too much perfume, a big jerk like Chazz, looks like a girl, has a huge ego..."
'Is she trying to make me feel better or worst?' wondered Crowler, sweatdropping as he listened to Jaden rant on of how a terrible person he can be. If it weren't for the fact that he was severely wounded, he would have ran up to Jaden and yelled at her, giving her at least a month's-no, two month's worth of detention!
"But even so, he can throw down!" Jaden ranted on, now talking positive about her teacher. "And he'll beat you! So, get up, Dr. Crowler, and get your game on!"
"I...am...not...giving...UP!" hollered Crowler, taking most of his strength to stand up and fight for what's right. As much as he hated it, he knew Jaden was right, and her words motivated him...except for the part where she started talking bad about him.
"Oh? Are you still here?" mocked Camula, having lost interest in her opponent just moments ago.
"You better believe it! And here to stay, too! I, Dr. Vellian Crowler, will absolutely not be defeated in some Shadow Game! As much as I hate to admit it, Jaden's right! I can thrown down! I can beat you, and I can get my game on! Ugh...now I feel the urge to rinse my mouth!"
"Aw, it's not that bad to say it! But you're right. You said it, Crowler!" cheered Jaden.
"Yes, but now the situation's turned on Crowler. More importantly, his field and Life Points," reminded Bastion, getting back on subject.
"Crowler's going to need a large comeback if he wants to win this," agreed Zane.
"It's my turn! I draw!" said Crowler. "Yes! I summon Ancient Gear Golem in Attack Mode!"
His ace Monster rose from underground and stood tall and strong like a fortress right besides his owner.
Ancient Gear Golem - (EARTH/Machine) - LV8 - (3000/3000)
"Check it! Crowler's best Monster!" pointed out Chazz.
"But, where's the sacrifice?" wondered Syrus.
"It's on the field. The Ancient Gear Castle!" explained Zane. "And a very skillful move! With the Continuous Spell, Ancient Gear Castle, for the Tribute Summon for another Ancient Gear Golem, the castle can be used for as many sacrifices as however many Monsters you Normal Summoned."
After Ancient Gear Castle vanished, Crowler shouted, "Ancient Gear Golem, attack her Monster with Mechanized Melee!"
Smashing his iron first onto the group of Vampire Bats, they dispersed like rose petals once again.
Camula - 1200 LP
Crowler - 1700 LP
"Did you forget that Vampire Bat can't be destroyed so long as I use his effect?" reminded Camula. "On my next turn, I will definitely smite you using my combo of both Vampire Bat and Infernalvania!"
"I believe you're quite mistaken!" said Crowler.
"What's he going to do?" wondered Chazz, stunned just like the others that Crowler still has some unexpected tricks up his sleeve.
"Simple! I'm going to destroy every Spell and Trap card on the field using the wrath of my Heavy Storm Spell card!"
Powerful gusts of winds overtook the duel and blew away every single Spell and Trap on the field, especially Infernalvania, leaving the field empty except for the Monsters on the field.
"Hmph. You really are weak and predictable, you know that?" replied Camula, acting unfazed, almost as if she knew that would happen.
"Please! You don't know what you're talking about!"
Revealing her hideous expression with her tongue sticking out sharply, Camula grew serious, yet full of confidence herself. "Oh, don't I?! I activate the Trap card, Zombie Bed!"
Startled, Crowler said, "You can't! I just destroyed all the Spell and Trap cards!"
"That's precisely what I wanted you to do!"
"But why?!"
Being familiar with certain effects like this, Zane said, "Of course! It's so obvious! In order to be activated, Zombie Bed has to be destroyed!"
"Very good, my darling! And now that it's effect has been triggered, it allows me to Special Summon Zombie Werewolf in Attack Mode! And due to Vampire Bat's ability, he'll gain 200 more Attack Points upon return!"
Zombie Werewolf - (DARK/Zombie) - LV4 - (1400/1200)
"She knows Crowler's moves even before he does!" said Chazz.
"It's almost as if she's psychic herself!" spoke Syrus before shuddering in fear. "A psychic vampire...I never thought I'd actually see one!"
"Hmph. It's easy when you have a hundred flying bats spying on everyone!" bragged Camula, returning to normal. But even with her beauteous appearance, everyone can now see she was a monster both metaphorically and literally on both the inside and out.
'Huh? What's she talking about?' thought Jaden, confused about her previous statement.
A bat flew down besides Camula's shoulder, folding its wings as its eyes glowed red; something Crowler noticed and was taken aback with a hint of fear.
"It's over, Crowler! My turn!" said Camula. "I activate Book of Life! It ressurects my Vampire Lord which I had previous sent to my Graveyard before! And due to Vampire Bat's effect, he gains 200 extra Attack Points!
Vampire Lord - (DARK/Zombie) - LV5 - (2200/1500)
"In addition, I can target one Monster on your Graveyard and remove it from play! So, I'll be taking your Ancient Gear Beast so you can't use him again! I remove from play Vampire Lord to Special Summon Vampire Genesis in Attack Mode!"
A beast that's supposed to resemble a vampire made his appearance, making up his hideous appearance for his huge amount of power.
Vampire Genesis - (DARK/Zombie) - LV8 - (3000/2100)
"And since Vampire Bat is still on the field, his Attack Points increase by 200!"
Vampire Genesis - (DARK/Zombie) - LV8 - (3200/2100)
No words were need to be told that Vampire Genesis was definitely stronger than Crowler's ace Monster. Even if he didn't get that power boost, Camula still would have caused both Monster to destroy each other, then use her Monsters to take down Crowler.
Crowler...had no more tricks left.
Even so, Crowler turned to his students with some hope left in his eyes. "My students, no matter what happens to me, always remember this, and please promise me one last thing! It's true that I may have been harsh on you, but it's simply because I believe in you! Therefore, if I fall here, there's still hope! Please promise me that you will believe in hope, and that you will never waver or doubt your own hearts!"
"Don't talk like that!" shouted Zane, refusing to believe the reality that is to come.
Now Jaden was feeling terrible about herself and regretting the bad things she's said about Crowler. While what she said was her perspective, she was now undoubtable witnessing full proof of Crowler caring for his students. Sure, he was annoying at times but-No, right now, he's truly a respectable teacher who would sacrifice his life for his students.
"Have you spoken your final words, Crowler?" called Camula. The pathetic human before her should be grateful that she's even allowing him a final word with his students.
"EXCUSE ME, BUT THAT'S 'DR' TO YOU!"
"Ahahaha! If you wish, I will put it in your tombstone when I am finished with you! Attack, my minions! First, his Ancient Gear Golem, then his Life Points!"
Her loyal Monsters were happy to obliged as they got straight to work. Vampire Genesis made short work of Ancient Gear Goldem, while Zombie Werewolf and Vampire Bat finished off Crowler's Life Points for good.
Camula - 1200 LP
Crowler - 0 LP
Winner: Camula
"And that's the end. His key is mine," proclaimed Camula proudly.
Throughout the entire assault, everyone stayed silent and still, wishing with all their might that they could have saved Crowler, but it was inevitable. One cannot simply interfere in a Shadow Game like that. Besides, Crowler wouldn't have allowed it anyways. Still, that didn't stop everyone from despising Camula and her cruel methods.
Watching Camula approach Crowler's body, Chazz refused to believe the outcome of the duel. "No way...I can't believe it! Damnit!"
"We-We can't stop her...She's already won the duel," spoke Syrus timidly.
"One down, six to go," muttered Camula, picking up Crowler's Spirit Key, which vanished from her fingertips and towards the holding place where the Sacred Beast cards were hidden. "And now for my second prize!"
She took the mini mannequin doll from her pocket and focused her powers onto it. A surging aura consumed Crowler's body before it vanished; his remaining soul stuck in the doll as it transformed into a doll version of him. Disgusted, she tossed the doll to the ground and stepped on it.
Angered by this action, Jaden moved in to leap at her. "Why you-!"
Zane stopped her, blocking her path with his arm and shaking his head. He was just as angry as Jaden and desired justice as well, but now wasn't the time to lose one's cool. If they wanted to win this, they have to do so using their brains instead of their hearts.
Amused, Camula said, "I bid you farewell. I look forward to our next challenge."
Behind her amongst the hidden fog was a now visible castle in front of the shining moon. The moonlight shined down upon the castle, revealing all of its glory and ancient structure. That must be the next destination of their duel.
"Is that...a castle?"
Smirking, Camula spoke one more time. "We shall meet again!" A whirlwind swallowed her up and transformed her into a bat, which she joined her fellow bats up into the night skies; her laughter echoing in the skies as everyone remained dead silent.
The next day...
"Damnit! How could she make Dr. Crowler...? Camula's gonna get it sooner or later!" Too weakened to get up, Jaden let her anger out by speaking harshly about Camula and the rotten things she's done. Besides, it's not like she can get up like that, for the others would easily take her down if she tried.
"..." Staring at the Crowler doll in his hands, Chazz decided to keep it for safekeeping. Clearly, he didn't want it, but if Crowler's soul was inside the doll, then he might as well protect it a bit until they defeat Camula. Chances are that Crowler should return to normal should she be defeated. Besides, if anything happened to the Crowler doll, Crowler may never come back.
"I mean, seriously! Taking the Spirit Key was one thing, but Crowler's soul too?!" ranted on Jaden while the others remained uneased and silent. "Just...just how the hell are we gonna return Crowler back to normal?!"
"Jaden..." Growing worried, Syrus gently spoke, "You really oughta rest."
Banner couldn't agree more with him. "Sy's right. After all, we're going to have to place everything we have in these Shadow Games. If we lose, we'll be put in dolls like Dr. Crowler! And I really don't want to-!"
Unknowingly gripping Pharaoh's fur as he was stroking it, Banner accidentally tugged on the fur too much, causing Pharaoh to cry out in pain and jump off his lap. Pharaoh quickly escaped under the infirmary bed Jaden was using, with Banner crawling after him and shivering in fear.
"I-it's alright! I've got Pharaoh! And we shall be under here! ...For a few minutes. Maybe an hour? It'll be a while, though."
Anyone can obviously tell that he won't be coming out there anytime soon.
Everyone grew silent, worried about their obstacle up ahead. They certainly needed to defeat Camula, but if she's this tough, just imagine how much more powerful the other Shadow Riders are like.
Bastion decided to speak up for everyone's sake. "The worst part is, since Camula was about to take Crowler's key, she needs six more to unleash those Beast cards."
"And it won't just be our lives and souls at stake, but everyone's in the world," said Alexis, finishing what Bastion was meant to say.
Letting out a frustrated cry, Jaden tugged harshly on her bedsheets. "Damnit! We just need to win, right? Then, that settles it! I'm dueling her tonight!"
"You, duel? Please, gimme a break!" said Chazz, pulling the bedsheets over Jaden and practically trapping her inside as she struggled and fumbled with the sheets. "Leave all of this to the Chazz!"
"Hold on...! Yeah!" Using all her strength, Jaden managed to free herself of the bedsheets, gasping for breath afterwards before crotching over in pain.
"Tch." Clicking his tongue, Chazz stepped forward and pulled the sheets even harder before shoving her back in the bed. "You're injured, so shut up and get some rest!"
"Chazz! That was mean of you!" cried out Syrus, rushing to Jaden's side and glaring at the black coated student. "You didn't have to be so rough!"
"Oh, quiet! I'm doing what's best for her! For all of us!" said Chazz, growing annoyed, yet determined to beat the female vampire. "One of us is going to have to face Camula!"
"And by 'us,' you mean you, Chazz?" questioned Bastion. "I'm sorry, Chazz. But I'm not entirely convinced that you're the man for the job. I should go."
"You?" Now it was Chazz's turn to distrust the Ra Yellow. Bastion may have beaten him once, but that time was only a fluke! A fluke! He's changed and grown much stronger than last time!
"Chazzzy! Please, let me outta here!" complained Jaden, continuing to struggle with her ensnaring bedsheets.
"Shut it!"
"...Fine! Meanie..."
"What we need is to work together!" said Alexis, bringing the topic back into attention. 'Protecting the keys and Crowler's soul is all that matters! That's why we can't lose to these Shadow Games anymore!"
The others gave a nod in unison, agreeing with Alexis that the menace known as the Shadow Riders definitely needed to be taken down, starting with Camula.
Zane, having heard enough, walked out of the infirmary quietly with Syrus being the only one who noticed. Getting up, Syrus left the infirmary as well and caught up with his brother down the hallway.
"Zane! Zane, wait!" he called, causing Zane to stop. "W-what's wrong? Didn't we all agree we would work together? I-If it comes to it, when you have to duel, at least be careful!"
Instead of rudely ignoring his little brother like usual, Zane unexpectedly gave Syrus a soft smile of reassurance before walking off. Unknown to both of them, another vampire bat was spying on them, reporting all to Camula through the red eyes.
Back in Chazz's room...
Lost in thought about which deck his should use, Chazz sat on his bed with three decks laid before him. Each of them he managed to gather by himself by buying Booster packs and collecting all the useful cards he could find. Clearly, there was no way he was using his Ojama deck, so the only things left were to choose which deck...
Once again, Ojama Yellow, curious to see what his Boss was up to, flew up to his face. "Hey, watcha doing, Boss?"
"None of your business."
Irritated, Chazz casually smacked Ojama Yellow as usual, sending him straight towards his TV. Thankfully, since Ojama Yellow's body wasn't physical, he dove inside the TV before flying back, quickly recovering.
Chazz, who decided to rearranged a brand new deck using the cards in his three decks, tried to swat Ojama Yellow away. "Go away!"
"Hey, hey! Boss! Can I help? Can I? Can I? Can I? Can-"
WHACK! Finally, Chazz successfully hit Ojama Yellow once more, making him crash and bounce onto the Crowler doll.
"OW! That hurt!" cried out the Crowler doll. Surprised and curious, Ojama Yellow began to lift up his arm and tickle the doll. "What are you doing?! Stop! AHAHAHAHA! STOP! I'M-AHAHAHAHA! TICKLISH! AHAHAHAHA!"
Gasping, Ojama Yellow called out, "Boss! This doll's alive!"
Getting up from his bed and walking towards Ojama Yellow, Chazz picked up the Crowler doll as the doll itself started complaining. "Would you mind not moving me so much?! You're wrinkling my coat!"
Judging from the obnoxious tone along with the new, high-pitched voice the Crowler doll seemed to adopt, there was no doubt that this doll contained Crowler's soul.
"Oh yeah. That's Dr. Crowler, alright," assured Chazz before smirking. "But...you don't get an opportunity like this every day, so..." He placed the Crowler doll back on the desk before turning around and walking towards something.
"Hmm? Chazz? Where are you going?! Don't leave me here with this...this weird yellow freak!"
"Hey! I'm not a freak! Take that back!"
"Ow! You cretin! You kicked me! You do NOT kick me! Me, a superior teacher in the greatest dueling school in the world!"
"I'm back." This time, Chazz returned...with an evil grin and scissors. More specficially, tiny, yet sharp and sword-like scissors.
"W-what are you doing with those?!" exclaimed the Crowler doll, wanting to scootch away. Unfortunately, he couldn't move, therefore, he was helpless and vulnerable to whatever move Chazz makes.
"I've been waiting for something like this for a long, long, LONG time..." chuckled Chazz with a evil glint in his eyes, approaching the Crowler doll while raising the scissors. "Total payback for all those times..."
If the Crowler doll could sweat, he could already have been doing it already. "N-now, now! Let's not do anything drastic!"
"Drastic? Oh no, I'm just going to change your appearance a bit. I don't normally deal with stupid dolls like yourself, but I'll make an exception this one time. And I'm starting with your girly hair..."
"EEP! NO! NOT MY HAIR! MY LOVELY, LOVELY HAIR! AND HOW DARE YOU CALL MY HAIR GIRLY?!"
"Oh, I am sooo gonna enjoy this..."
Being sympathetic with the Crowler doll while hearing his cries for help, Ojama Yellow wanted to help him, but noticed something else outside. Looking out the window, Ojama Yellow saw several bats flying around the dark clouds in the night sky. Chazz ceased his 'activity' with Crowler and tugged aside the curtains, also spotting the bats.
Knowing that Camula was ready for the next duel, Chazz snatched his deck along with the Crowler doll, ignoring the doll's cries to be left alone because he didn't want to be left alone with Chazz of all people.
The others must have noticed the bats, because they all started to leave their dorm rooms to confront the current threat at hand; Camula.
At the castle...
Soon after gathering at the beach, everyone proceeded to walk down the velvet carpet presented to them by Camula the night before, which would evidently lead them straight towards the vampire's castle.
Somehow, Jaden managed to convince Chumley to carry her, probably something of a deal with grilled cheese sandwiches, bringing her to reunite with the others. At first, they protested, wanting her to get some rest back in the infirimary, but after a few minutes, everyone finally agreed to let her come along, seeing as she can't do anything due to her condition and how everyone else will stop her physically if she tries to. Besides, Jaden can be rather persistant.
The group entered inside the dark, mysterious castle altogether, staying close so that they wouldn't get lost. They passed through dark hallways lit up with torches until they made their way to the main room where Camula was waiting.
Zane walked ahead first and entered the main room as a result, looking around until he spotted Camula on top of one of the balconies.
"Welcome, children! Let me welcome you!" introduced Camula, raising her arms high in the air.
Immediantly, Jaden was set to go after seeing Camula, wishing to avenge Crowler. "I'm your opponent, Camula!"
"Get back, Jaden," ordered Chazz, stepping forward. "I'll be the one dueling her."
"No, I will," said Bastion.
"I have no interest in little boys or girls," remarked Camula, shaking her head.
"She means you," Bastion said, referring to Chazz.
Chazz growled at the indirect insult. "No, she means you!"
"Once again, you mortals are wrong," spoke Camula before pointing her finger at Zane. "I want you."
With no disagreeing, Zane turned to Camula, having made up his mind. "Alright, let's duel."
Seeing that Zane was going to duel and that Camula had chosen for him, nobody else had any objections, though Syrus looked like he wanted to say something. "Good luck, bro..." he whispered. His brother was definitely strong, but he had some weird feeling about this...
As lightning crashed down from the outside, Camula and Zane were facing off against each other in opposite balconies while everyone else watched from the sidelines.
"Darling, you do know the rules, don't you?" reminded Camula. "The winner will advance on, while the loser will have their soul sealed in another doll. If you win, you get Crowler's soul back. But if I win, I get your soul, your Spirit Key, and I'll be on my way to completing the path to unlocking the three Sacred Beasts!"
Both duelists inserted their dueling decks inside their duel disks as they're about to begin the duel.
"DUEL!"
- DUEL -
Camula - 4000 LP
VS
Zane - 4000 LP
"I'll go first. Draw!" said Camula. "I summon Vampire Lady in Defense Mode!"
A beautiful female vampire resembling Camula and wearing a gown appeared, smirking sinisterly at Zane.
Vampire Lady - (DARK/Zombie) - LV4 - (1550/1550)
"Next, I'll lay a card facedown and end my turn."
"My turn, draw!" said Zane. "From my hand, I activate the Spell card, Power Bond!"
Nobody could contain their gasps when they saw Zane about to trigger the effects of Power Bond. Normally, Zane wouldn't pull out a reckless card such as Power Bond, so naturally this came as a surprise to them.
"What? Power Bond?" asked Camula.
"It allows me to Fusion Summon Machine-Type Monsters with this card," explained Zane. "I fuse the three Cyber Dragons in my hand! Now, unite and merge into the all-powerful Cyber End Dragon!"
Upon appearing on the field momentarily, the three metallic dragons started to fuse with each other; their bodies and strengths combining with each other to form the most strongest Monster on the field.
Cyber End Dragon - (LIGHT/Machine/Fusion) - LV10 - (4000/2800)
"Zane summoned his most powerful Monster on his very first turn!" gasped Alexis.
'Wow, that's not like Zane at all,' thought Syrus, growing suspicious and more worried for his big brother. 'He usually feels out an opponent before playing Power Bond! It's almost like he's just...using it...instead of playing it...' Syrus' thoughts halted when he realized that Zane was acting like when Syrus did when they were young. Syrus wanted to use Power Bond, but didn't play it exactly, which nearly cost him the duel with that bully. Could it be that...Zane is in that sort of situation, yet he doesn't realize it himself?
With the Cyber End Dragon's loyalty right behind him, Zane knew his chances of winning has increased immensely, yet he kept a stern and calm look on his face. He couldn't afford to take any chances prolonging for a victory. He has to carve out a shortcut to victory himself before Camula pulls out a big move on him. That may have worked on Crowler, but it sure as hell won't work on him!
"You do recall Power Bond's risks, right?" reminded Camula. "Can you truly handle all the consequences?
"She's right," muttered Chumley, recalling the effects of the dangerous Fusion card. "At the end of his turn, he'll take Cyber End Dragon's original 4000 Attack Points as damage."
"With Power Bond's additional effect, Cyber End Dragon's Attack Points double," revealed Zane.
Cyber End Dragon - (LIGHT/Machine/Fusion) - LV10 - (8000/2800)
"8000 Attack Points?! But, even so, my Vampire Lady is in Defense Mode, so-"
"Not so fast! Cyber End Dragon can inflict Piercing Damage, so there's no point in defending yourself!" said Zane. "And luckily for me, I won't have to worry about the consequences after this turn! Go, Cyber End Dragon! Evolutionary Burst Stream!"
Fully charged, Cyber End Dragon fired streams of explosive power from his mouths, which would serve more than enough to wipe out Camula and her Vampire Lady.
"I activate my Trap, Red Ghost Moon!" countered Camula. "By discarding a Zombie-Type Monster from my hand, this card adds the Attack Points of your attacking Monster to my Life Points while ending the Battle Phase!"
A fire barrier flared up and shielded both Camula and Vampire Lady, rending Cyber End Dragon's beam attacks useless as his were absorbed in the fire barrier and changed into sparkles that showered onto Camula.
Gritting his teeth, Zane glared at the female vampire with frustration. While he was focused on making his Monster stronger, he had forgotten all about the set card Camula had laid out. He had to get his head straight! He can't afford to make another mistake like this again!
"Now that Cyber End Dragon's Attack Points are being added to my Life Points, I'll have a grand total of 12,000!" bellowed Camula proudly.
Head straight, Zane shouted, "From my hand, I activate the Quick-Play Spell, De-Fusion! It cancels the fusion of a Fusion Monster on the field, leaving you..."
"With absolutely nothing!" finished Bastion. "That means that since Red Ghost Moon lost its target, the effect is canceled!"
"My points!" cried out Camula as Cyber End Dragon dispersed into the three original dragons they were composed of.
Cyber Dragon - (LIGHT/Machine) - LV5 - (2100/1600) X3
"Hey, you know what else?" spoke up Chumley. "Now that Cyber End Dragon's gone, Power Bond isn't effective anymore, which means Zane won't take any Effect Damage!"
"As I thought, Zane's pretty cool!" exclaimed Jaden excitedly, making Syrus nod in agreement.
"I set one card facedown and end my turn," said Zane.
Camula chuckled to herself, finding more amusement in this duel than her duel with Crowler. "Oh, my darling! You're quite interesting! No wonder I always loved types like you!"
"Sorry, but I always hated types like yours," countered Zane, coldly showing disgust towards the merciless vampire.
Instead of being hurt, Camula just grew more interested. "Ooh!~ How cold! Still, that's why you're something I want for myself. Still, it's my move, isn't it? I draw! I sacrifice Vampire Lady to Tribute Summon Vampire Lord!"
Vampire Lord - (DARK/Zombie) - LV5 - (2000/1500)
"Next, I shall remove him from the game in order to Special Summon Vampire Genesis!"
Vampire Genesis - (DARK/Zombie) - LV8 - (3000/2100)
While the others stared at awe at the powerful Monster who took down Crowler's ace Monster, Camula spoke up, "Darling, I will at least acknowledge your tactics of using De-Fusion to avoid the huge Effect Damage you would have taken from Power Bond. But, did you honestly think I wouldn't prepare for your ace Monster? Now that I've forced you to dismantle your Monster, there's no hope for you now! So, what say you?"
Despite her comments, Zane made no move to speak. He didn't need to, for he had no wish to engage in conversation with the sadistic vampire.
"Tch! How annoying!" complained Camula when he didn't even utter a word. "Vampire Genesis, attack!"
Just as Vampire Genesis was pumping up for an full-charged attack, Zane said, "You must have truly underestimated me if you thought that Cyber End Dragon is the only Monster I could rely on. I activate the Trap card, Attack Reflector Unit! Attack Reflector Unit will now evolve one of my Cyber Dragons into Cyber Barrier Dragon!"
Particles of light began to surround one of the Cyber Dragons, transforming him into a brand new, defensive-looking dragon.
Cyber Barrier Dragon - (LIGHT/Machine) - LV6 - (800/2800)
"When Cyber Barrier Dragon is in Attack Mode, it can negate a Monster's attack once per turn! Thanks to his Monster effect, I negate Vampire Genesis's attack!"
Cyber Barrier Dragon began to unload his defensive barriers right as Vampire Genesis charged through head on, but was instantly blocked by the strong barrier effect Cyber Barrier Dragon held up, thus the Zombie-Type was forced to retreat.
With no other choice, Camula said, "I end my turn."
"My turn! I activate the Spell card, Pot of Greed!" said Zane. "This lets me draw two cards from my deck. Then, I activate the Quick-Play Spell, Photon Generator Unit! By sacrificing the two Cyber Dragons on my field, I can Special Summon Cyber Laser Dragon!"
A new version of a steel-like dragon resembling Cyber Dragon, yet having more power, appeared on the field right next to Cyber Barrier Dragon.
Cyber Laser Dragon - (LIGHT/Machine) - LV7 - (2400/1800)
"Once per turn, Cyber Laser Dragon is able to destroy one Monster with Attack or Defense Points higher than his Attack Points."
"Wait...if his ability is to destroy one Monster with higher Attack Points than him...And since Vampire Genesis has 3000 Attack Points..." muttered Camula, trying to calculate the results.
"That's right! I activate Cyber Laser Dragon's effect on your Vampire Genesis!" shouted Zane.
Revealing his cannon-like tail, Cyber Laser Dragon unleashed a powerful blue laser which blasted through Vampire Genesis, destroying him.
"Cyber Laser Dragon, attack her directly!"
This time, Cyber Laser Dragon shot his laser blast from within his jaws, effectively hitting Camula as she shrieked in pain.
Camula - 1600 LP
Zane - 4000 LP
"Cyber Barrier Dragon, attack her as well!"
Letting loose painful soundwaves, Cyber Barrier Dragon's head struck back as he concentrated on his attack. Camula screamed; the force of the soundwaves being enough to drive her up the wall.
Camula - 800 LP
Zane - 4000 LP
"He did it!" cheered Syrus as everyone else was also pleased. Just a little bit more, and Camula will be defeated.
"Zane's really amazing, huh?" commented Chumley.
"Of course! After all, he did beat me, after all!" said Jaden, grinning. Despite the fact that she lost, it didn't appear like she was that bothered by it. In fact, by acknowledging her defeat, she was also acknowledging a respected duelist like Zane.
"Yeah! Now, you guys see why my brother's never lost! This is why I always look up to him!" said Syrus. "Although, Mom says I've always got the looks!"
"I'll set a card facedown and end my turn," said Zane.
"Darling...do you realize that you're forcing me to reveal my ugly side?" Camula's face disorted to that of the same hideous, frightening expression she gave to Crowler with her tongue sharply sticking out, disgusting Zane. "I shall play Illusion Gate!"
A mysterious, ancient-looking gate that appeared to be from relics, yet looked untouchable, showed itself right behind Camula. The designs were something out of this world and completely unknown, yet at the same time, held a mysterious power.
"Behold! First, this card can destroy all Monsters on my opponent's field!" Camula began explaining the effects of Illusion Gate.
The gate doors flung open as a terrifying wind along with a bright light coming from inside the gates started to shine through. The only Monsters left on the field, Cyber Laser Dragon and Cyber Barrier Dragon, gazed upon the light before vanishing instantly. At the same time, a clone of Camula forged by the Illusion Gate appeared right besides her, almost as if both Camulas were twins.
"But, that's not all Illusion Gate has to offer," spoke Camula. "This card can Special Summon a Monster that was used during the duel, ignoring any requirements. And even though you already defused your Cyber End Dragon and returned him to the Extra Deck, he can still be Special Summoned since he was used during this duel."
"That's ridiculous!" shouted Zane, losing his cool. "A powerful card that has all those effects...you'd have to pay a serious price to keep Illusion Gate up and running!"
"Yes, you're quite right. Everything has a price," Camula agreed as her clone began glowing. "And the requirement for keeping this card would be...that I would have to offer a soul. Should I lose this duel, my soul will be offered to the Sacred Beasts."
"That's...just too life-risking!" gasped Bastion.
"Well, good! That's what you get for taking Crowler's!" scoffed Chazz.
"Oh? Who said anything about my soul? Since we are playing a Shadow Game, the shadows don't care whose soul it is they take so long as they get a soul," replied Camula, smirking as she glanced down at Syrus. "And wouldn't it be more exciting if I took my opponent's precious little brother as the soul bargainer?"
Eyes widening, Zane immediantly knew that Camula meant as he hollered, "RUN, SYRUS! RUN!"
"Huh?"
"I won't let you!" Swooping downwards, the clone Camula instantly got behind Syrus and sunk her teeth into Syrus' neck, sucking quickly and enjoying the innocent nectar-like blood coming from the boy's bloodstream. Losing consciousness due to lack of blood, Syrus went limp, unable to put up a fight even though he had no chance of succession. Before any of the others could lunge for the clone Camula or even rescue Syrus from Camula's clutches, the vampire flew right back to the spot where her true self was dueling.
"B-brother..." mumbled Syrus tiredily as blood slowly seeped from the two holes in his neck.
Satisfied, Camula announced, "I sacrifice this child's soul to Special Summon Cyber End Dragon!"
The gates burst opened once more, and a slight hologram of Cyber End Dragon appeared. With the appearance of the powerful beast, Syrus cried out in agony as his life energy was being drained and placed onto Cyber End Dragon, making him completely physical and visible.
Cyber End Dragon - (LIGHT/Machine/Fusion) - LV10 - (4000/2800)
Zane grunted and was about to make a move to finish off Camula when Camula foresaw this and spoke up quickly. "Oh! Before you grow hasty, I should let you know that should you ever defeat me in this duel, only your brother's soul will be taken instead of mine. So, what shall you do?"
'The facedown Trap card on my field is Call of the Haunted,' thought Zane. 'If I brought back Cyber Barrier Dragon, I can use his effect to negate Cyber End Dragon's attack. But, even so...even if I do make it past this turn...What if she pulls off another cowardly move? If I waste more time thinking, Syrus will die! He's already suffering from blood loss and his life draining from Illusion Gate! He doesn't need more treatment from tha-'
"STOP!" yelled Jaden, catching everyone's attention. "Pick me! I don't care what happens to me! Exchange my soul for Syrus'!"
"What are you saying?!" cried out Alexis.
"Chumley, put me down!" ordered Jaden, growing frantic.
"W-what-?! I'm not doing that!" said Chumley, shaking his head.
"Do it, stupid!" Jaden didn't appear to be joking around. "If you're not going to...Then, I'll make you!" Being true to her word, she sunk her teeth down deeply onto Chumley's shoulder.
"OW!" Nearly losing his grip on Jaden, Chumley struggled to get her teeth off his shoulders. Naturally, the others tried to help by attempting to pry Jaden off of Chumley's shoulder while keeping her on his back, which worked successfully.
Jaden then resorted to more drastic matter, such as jabbing the back end of her elbow down onto Chumley's arm, causing him to yelp in pain and release Jaden as he tended to his arm. Jaden fell to the ground painfully, but that didn't matter to her as she used all her strength to get back up and rush forward.
However, Bastion and Chazz easily stopped her by grabbing onto her arms and holding her back. "Let me go! I need to save Syrus! Syrus! SYRUS!" screamed Jaden, desperately trying to save her little friend.
"Jaden..." Shocked by Jaden's determination to save Syrus, Zane then made up his mind. Yes...the choice was clear.
"So, what will you do?" called out Camula. "Win and lose your brother's soul? Or will you lose and give up your own soul and Spirit Key?"
"Zane...Go on, Zane. Do it. My soul is a small price to pay," spoke up Syrus weakly. "Big brother...I've always looked up to you, and I always will. So, don't worry, I won't blame you for this. Besides, if anyone else finds out that me, a pitiful, weak, and useless Slifer Red duelist, was your little brother, no doubt that your reputation will doubt. It's okay...I might have the looks, but Zane, you have pretty much everything, even the good looks. Anyways, this is good for both of us. If I go down like this, you won't have to worry over weak old me, and I'll always be remembered as the hero. And we both knew that I would never have survived in Duel Academy. It's just like you said, big bro...I never belonged here."
"DON'T SAY THAT!" screamed Jaden, tears running down as Bastion and Chazz continued to hold her back. "No! No, no, no, no, NO! Please...don't do this! NO! NO! I WON'T LET YOU! TAKE MY SOUL, CAMULA! I DON'T CARE!" Unable to handle it, she collapsed to the ground before Alexis rushed over to support her.
"..."
The decision was final. Of course Zane would save his little brother. After all, he wouldn't go so far to win a duel if it meant sacrificing someone. Besides, Syrus has changed a lot ever since he's gained some good friends such as Jaden. Evidence of that was being presented right now as Jaden was pleading for Camula to take her soul in exchange for Syrus's soul. Therefore..."
"I stand down," declared Zane.
"Zane, no! What are you doing?!" exclaimed Syrus, not expecting this from his brother.
"Very well! Cyber End Dragon, attack him directly!" ordered Camula.
Being influenced by Illusion Gate, Cyber End Dragon tried his hardest not to attack his master, but ultimately gave in and blasted away the rest of his Life Points, leaving him not even a shred of his Life Points.
"BROTHER!" screamed Syrus as everyone else stared in astonishment.
Camula - 800 LP
Zane - 0 LP
Winner: Camula
Zane's body went still and motionless as his eyes went dull, no longer filled with life. Holding up another doll, Camula watched as Zane's body disappeared due to the powers of the Shadow Games. Zane's soul quickly merged with the doll, creating a Zane-lookalike as Camula carried him with much care.
Jaden managed to snap out of it in time to see the conclusion of the duel, which she was left stunned just like the others. Unable to believe it, Syrus fell to his knees, thinking it was his fault.
"Don't worry about Zane," assured Camula to everyone. "I'll be sure to cherish both him and his Spirit Key tenderly. Mwahahahaha!" With that said, she dispersed into a whirlwind of dust, vanishing away.
When everyone managed to leave the castle and make it back to land, they were still depressed that they lost not only the powerful duelist in Duel Academy , but their friend as well. Even so, the one who felt more affective was Syrus, given that his brother sacrificed himself of him.
However, instead of falling into despair, Jaden just grew more angry and determined through Zane's defeat as she struggled to walk, but fell due to her injuries. Didn't stop the as she's feeling, though.
"What the hell...what the hell is with this?!" shouted Jaden. "Dueling has to be all about fun, right?! Then, why is Syrus suffering like this?! Why did Crowler's soul have one be taken?! And why did Zane's soul also have to be taken unfairly?! Urk!"
As she tried standing up, her injuries started affecting her, but she didn't care. "Camula...the Shadow Riders...I won't forgive any of you! Mark my words, I will defeat you and bring back all the souls lost!"
Hey, guys! Sorry for the long wait, but surely you guys understand due to life's hardships! Besides, I made this extra long due on two episodes altogether! Hope you enjoyed the extra scenes!