Idea: Since Asahi is very fond of Isabeau, how about if at some point you make the girl find out about Isabeau's passion for manga, and then invite Samurai to watch some random anime episodes with her? This could be in some spare time they have, Flynn could be looking for Isabeau and he would end up finding Nanashi who would help Flynn as he knew where Isabeau was.
They would both go to Asahi's room and find them both laughing and having fun like two normal teenagers watching anime, at which point Flynn might blush at the sight of a relaxed and happy Isabeau at that moment. -Lucian Naruto
Maybe for a future chapter when the Samurai aren't busy.
Chapter 20 Lair of Darkness
Burroughs activated the coin toss function.
"Duel!", Isabeau said as their duel disks synced.
Isabeau LP 4000
Ren LP 4000
"I draw!", Isabeau said.
Isabeau
Hand: 6
"I summon Trident Warrior which will allow me to special summon a level 3 monster from my hand. I choose X-Saber Airbellum.", Isabeau said.
Isabeau
Hand: 4
Trident Warrior
(WARRIOR/LIGHT/EFFECT/ ATK 1800 / DEF 1200 / LV4)
Effect: When this card is Normal Summoned: You can Special Summon 1 Level 3 monster from your hand.
Ren tensed as he recognized the similarities between their uniform and the crown Samurai.
"I see your some of those Samurai…", Ren said.
"Indeed we are Samurai. I will then tune my Airbellum with my Trident Warrior! A warrior must rise in a world writhe with conflict! It's time to head out X soldier! Synchro summon! Level 7! X-Saber Urbellum!", Isabeau chanted.
X-Saber Urbellum
(WARRIOR/EARTH/SYNCHRO/EFFECT/ ATK 2200/ DEF 1300/ LV7)
1 Tuner 1 or more non-Tuner monsters
Effect: When this card inflicts Battle Damage to your opponent while they have 4 or more cards in their hand, place 1 random card from their hand on top of their Deck.
"Then, I will set two cards.", Isabeau said.
Isabeau
Hand: 2
"I draw!", Ren said.
Ren
Hand: 6
He lightly glared at them realizing they were Samurai now. His gaze lingered to their card sleeves which had confirmed it for him when he saw Isabeau doing her plays before she gave her confirmation.
"I cannot lose against her. Not only will I be declared weak, but Lady Yuriko may be jeopardized. I cannot go back on an agreement made for a duel either.", Ren thought.
"I activate Trade In allowing me to send a level 8 monster from my hand to the graveyard to draw two cards. I choose Cosmo Queen.", Ren said.
Ren
Hand: 6
Trade In
(Normal Spell)
Effect: Discard 1 Level 8 monster; draw 2 cards.
"I summon Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands. It's effect allows me to add one ritual monster or spell. I will add the ritual monster Demise, King of Armageddon. I will then use Advanced Ritual Art offering up a normal monster from my deck as a sacrifice. I choose Tri-Horned Dragon.", Ren said.
Ren
Hand: 5
He murmured incomprehensible words like Takuya before his body was engulfed in blue flames.
"Ritual summon! Level 8! Demise, King of Armageddon!", Ren said.
Ren
Hand: 4
He stood as Demise, King of Armageddon summoning the monster within himself.
Demise, King of Armageddon
(FIEND/DARK/RITUAL/EFFECT/ ATK 2400/ DEF 2000/ LV8)
Effect: You can Ritual Summon this card with "End of the World". You can pay 2000 LP; destroy all other cards on the field.
"I activate the effect of Demise allowing me to pay 2000 to destroy all other cards on the field!", Ren said.
"Not so fast! I'm activating my trap Torrential Tribute! When a monster is summoned all monsters on the field are destroyed!", Isabeau countered.
Demise and Urbellum shattered away before Demise could activate its effect. Ren snickered looking at the other ritual monster in his hand, Ruin, Queen of Oblivion.
"With Manju gone too I don't have the levels to summon her.", Ren thought.
"I will set two cards and end my turn.", Ren said.
Ren
Hand: 2
"I draw!", Isabeau said.
Isabeau
Hand: 3
"I summon XX-Saber Darksoul. Then I'll activate my other trap Gottoms Emergency call. When I control an X-Saber monster I can target two X-Saber monsters in the graveyard and special summon them. I choose Urbellum and Airbellum obviously.", Isabeau said.
XX-Saber Darksoul
(BEAST/EARTH/EFFECT/ ATK 100/ DEF 100/ LV3)
Effect: During the End Phase, if this card was sent from your side of the field to your Graveyard this turn: You can add 1 "X-Saber" monster from your Deck to your hand.
"I shall tune Airbellum with Darksoul! The feminine knight in shimmering gold armor appears! None can escape the swiftness of this X soldier! Synchro summon! Level 6! XX-Saber Hyunlei!", Isabeau chanted.
XX-Saber Hyunlei
(WARRIOR/EARTH/SYNCHRO/EFFECT/ ATK 2300/ DEF 1300/ LV6)
1 Tuner 1 or more non-Tuner "X-Saber" monsters
Effect: When this card is Synchro Summoned, you can select and destroy up to 3 Spell or Trap Cards on the field.
"I haven't seen that one.", Issachar said.
"Neither have I.", Flynn replied.
"Hah! That ritual user is screwed now!", Navarre said.
"When this monster is synchro summoned I can destroy up to three spell or traps on the field. I will destroy your two facedown. Golden Tempest!", Isabeau said.
"W-what?!", Ren questioned as his End of the World and Negate Attack were destroyed.
"I will attack you directly with Urbellum!", Isabeau declared.
Ren winced in pain from the slash of the synchro monster's blade.
Ren LP 4000 - 2200 = 1800
"Then I will attack you directly with Hyunlei! Fierce Golden Strike!", Isabeau declared.
Ren LP 1800 - 2300 = 0
"Damn it!", Ren cursed after picking himself up after the attack.
"I win. What do you know of the Black Samurai?", Isabeau questioned as Ren sweated.
"Let her through.", a female member said as she appeared behind Ren, surprising him.
"What are you saying?!", Ren questioned.
"She would like to see you all.", the female member said.
Flynn tensed finding the sudden invitation suspicious.
"Are you referring to the Black Samurai?", Flynn questioned.
"Indeed. Right this way.", the female member replied.
"This seems rather suspicious. We should keep our guards raised.", Jonathan said and the others nodded in agreement.
The Samurai followed the Ring members cautiously looking around in case of a possible ambush. Eventually they reached another chamber before finding themselves falling into yet another trap door. The Samurai grumbled before the room they fell into was filled with gas. Flynn stumbled as his vision got shaky. It seems they've truly fallen into yet another trap.
When he awoke next he found himself tied to a chair. His arms were bound to the arms of the chair by cuff. He struggled with the chair to no avail. He looked around seeing the others were tied up. Flynn then turned his attention to a figure who walked forward, the Black Samurai.
"It has been quite awhile, Samurai.", the Black Samurai said.
"What are you planning by tying us up like cowards?", Flynn questioned.
"It was simply a necessary precaution. After all, from watching your battle against the tyrannical king I've seen how close minded you can be. I will free you and your friends if you're willing to listen to me.", the Black Samurai said.
Flynn glared daggers at the Black Samurai. Issachar turned to see the Black Samurai after he started to regain his consciousness.
"It's quite sad to see just how tight your leash is. It must be quite tough. Despite knowing the truth about what happened to your family you are still a dog of the Monastery.", the Black Samurai said.
"It was one rogue angel unlike the ritual users who constantly harm others!", Flynn replied.
"You and your fellows are truly ignorant. I guess finding out about their manipulation of the king didn't sway you either? The claims of King Ahazuya were true.", the Black Samurai replied.
"As if I'd believe the words of that tyrant or you! You're the reason why so many innocents in Mikado have lost their lives!", Flynn replied.
Flynn growled at the Black Samurai as the chair creaked. The chair tilted slightly. His glare was full of unbridled hatred. This made the Black Samurai sigh as the others were starting to rouse.
"And so the dog barks. Down, boy. This is exactly why I restrained you.", the Black Samurai said.
"There's no use, none of us will be willing to fall for your temptations.", Issachar said.
"It's exactly as I thought. You are all far too close minded. If that's the case…", the Black Samurai said as she cupped Flynn's cheeks with her hands.
Isabeau gasped in surprise when she saw the Black Samurai bringing Flynn's face closer. The Black Samurai slipped her hands up to his forehead before forcing his head back. Flynn flinched at being forced into such an uncomfortable position.
"Hoy, get away from our fellow!", Jonathan yelled.
"Why is she getting so handsy with him?!", Isabeau questioned, with a light blush.
"What are you doing?", Flynn questioned, before the ground under them suddenly lit up.
The Samurai gasped in surprise seeing a red pentagram glow on the floor. Navarre squealed in fear as he squirmed. They sweated nervously as they tried to move away from the circle. Flynn was stuck in the middle of the circle. He squirmed trying to get out of the chair.
"Perhaps the only way you can understand is if you can be given a taste of such power. First I will open your mind.", the Black Samurai said.
"I'm not interested in your evil power!", Flynn yelled, before he was forced back down.
He suddenly froze when the Black Samurai started to chant something incomprehensible.
"Flynn!", Issachar called out as he tried to squirm towards Flynn.
Flynn started struggling intensely as he sweated heavily. He felt something dark rising up within his chest. The Samurai struggled in panic. They had no idea what the Black Samurai was doing, but they knew they had to stop it. Isabeau felt her heart beating rapidly against her chest as she feared for her fellow. However suddenly the Black Samurai winced as she was struck by Chevalier De Fleur. Flynn gaped in surprise as the spirit spun, slicing his cuffs and the ropes bounding the others. Isabeau's signer mark was glowing as she got up and ran over to Flynn. Flynn got up stumbling in surprise.
"You saved us, Isabeau.", Flynn said.
Isabeau looked away, chuckling nervously. She seemed to want to hide her face, but her ears were visibly red. He wondered how she materialized a monster without activating her gauntlet.
"I suppose I did.", Isabeau replied.
The Samurai tensed, getting closer to each other and looked at the Black Samurai wearily as she got up to face them. She put her hand over the wound which became surrounded by dark energy before it vanished. The Samurai looked surprised to see how easily she recovered.
"It seems I've miscalculated. I should have separated all of you beforehand.", the Black Samurai said as dark energy surrounded her.
The Samurai hastily raised their gauntlets.
"It seems we both made foolish mistakes. Now, you're faced with two choices: duel for your freedom or face our monsters!", Flynn threatened.
"The way you say it makes it sound so villainous, Flynn…", Navarre said with a funny expression.
The Black Samurai simply laughed at the threat.
"Oh you're all so serious…but your mere children. I will show you real power.", the Black Samurai said, motioning her hand as darkness clustered together in front of her.
The darkness formed into a black dragon with red eyes, glowing blue marks and broken chains around it who roared fiercely at them.
Flynn, Isabeau, and Jonathan's signer marks glowed strongly before Stardust Dragon and Power Tool Dragon appeared in front of them without needing to do anything. This stunned the Samurai Navarre especially due to having not seen the monsters before.
"You will not escape justice, Black Samurai!", Jonathan said.
The two signer dragons worked together against the dark dragon. They were stunned by how in tune the two synchro monsters were. Together they were pushing back the dark dragon despite the immense power radiating off it.
"It seems you intend to use numbers to overpower and enforce your will. How is that not cowardly?", the Black Samurai questioned.
"We are working to protect the people, don't compare it to you capturing us!", Jonathan replied.
"Such unbridled hypocrisy…you truly are Messian.", the Black Samurai replied.
"We won't let you run away again!", Flynn said.
As the Black Samurai tried to scurry away Flynn materialized Doomkaiser who shot flames at the Black Samurai. She dodged out of the way before being struck by De Fleur once more. Issachar materialized White-Horned Dragon and Navarre materialized Trisula who shot ice at the Black Samurai freezing her in place. The darkness dragon was flung into the wall by the combined blasts of the two signer dragons. Darkness surrounded the Black Samurai and her monster freeing her and her monster got back up roaring.
"If you don't want to be ganged up on then duel.", Flynn said.
"Fine…then. You cannot defeat me with your current power.", the Black Samurai said as Flynn raised his gauntlet.
However, Issachar got in front of him, raising his gauntlet.
"Let me do this, Flynn! I need to. Defeating her here now is the best way to atone for everything I did. When I win she shall come with us without resistance.", Issachar said as Flynn looked at him.
"Alright Issachar…", Flynn replied, smiling before nodding.
"How embarrassing. You're really going to make such a promise? When you've fallen so far in power? Perhaps there's one way you could still prove useful at this point. Then how about this if you fail to defeat me you will lose your body to a spirit.", the Black Samurai replied.
"Absolutely not!", Flynn refused as a wave of protectiveness filled him.
"It seems even your best friend has no confidence in your abilities.", the Black Samurai taunted as Issachar looked down.
"Flynn…", Issachar said.
"The answer is no Issachar! I won't risk you! You can risk me instead!", Flynn replied.
"Don't say that, dumbass! You're not expendable!", Issachar replied angrily.
Flynn looked concerned and the other Samurai sweated. He could tell Flynn was completely terrified of losing him.
"Your not dueling to leave?", Jonathan questioned.
"I can do that whenever I want. I simply intend to give you children an example of the difference in power.", the Black Samurai replied.
"That's just a load of nonsense! She's bluffing! We have her on the ropes!", Navarre replied.
"Navarre is right, this is nonsense!", Flynn said.
"Flynn!", Issachar said, making Flynn freeze.
He put his hands on Flynn's shoulders in assurance.
"Just have faith in me. Like against, Nathan.", Issachar replied and Flynn did not respond.
Flynn remembered far too vividly how his duel against Norman went. Issachar's hand shook; he knew Flynn was doubting him even if he didn't say it. He thought he was weak; he wouldn't be so worried if he had confidence in his abilities. Flynn yanked Issachar back when he tried to raise his gauntlet against the Black Samurai harshly.
"Issachar please…", Flynn begged with pleading eyes.
Flynn's grip on his was vice-like refusing to let him go.
"Guys…", Isabeau said, wearily.
"Flynn…", Issachar replied, on edge.
"I'll risk myself instead!", Jonathan offered.
"Not you too, stupid! You guys have the chosen one dragons!", Navarre replied angrily.
"He's right. Neither you or Flynn can be replaced if something went awry. So, I'll bet myself.", Issachar replied.
Flynn was shaking, wanting to refuse more and say no.
"Please. Win. I won't forgive you if you lose.", Flynn said, simply.
"I'm willing to accept that.", Issachar replied.
Flynn shook, still holding his hand. He desperately didn't want to let go just like back at Lake Mikado when he first met his fellows. Even if he wasn't as obvious about it Flynn still depended on him. He had to win for all those he wronged, the people of Mikado, Flynn and himself. He could see small tears in Flynn's eyes as he struggled to let go. His hand very slowly retracted from his own. Flynn looked down solemnly as Issachar walked forward. The others looked extremely nervous not just for Issachar, but for Flynn. Perhaps this was the Black Samurai's true scheme.
"Duel!", the two said.
Issachar LP 4000
Yuriko LP 4000
The wind kicked up as they were all transported to the Shadow Realm. They all looked extremely wary at the familiar scenery.
"So that's her name. Yuriko.", Jonathan said.
"I suppose I never introduced myself yes I am known as Lady Yuriko the leader of the Ring of Gaea.", Yuriko replied.
"I expected nothing less from su-", Flynn said, harshly but Isabeau held him back.
"Just stay calm, Flynn.", Isabeau said, feeling nervous as she saw a similar dark miasma to Beelze appear around Flynn briefly.
"She's right, just stay calm. I draw!", Issachar replied.
Issachar
Hand: 6
"I will set a monster and two cards facedown.", Issachar said.
Issachar
Hand: 3
"Pathetic…I draw!", Yuriko said.
Yuriko
Hand: 6
"I activate the effect of the monster Ahrima, the Wicked Warden allowing me to discard it to add Lair of Darkness to my hand.", Yuriko said.
Ahrima, the Wicked Warden
(FIEND/DARK/EFFECT/ ATK 1700/ DEF 0/ LV4)
Effect: You can discard this card; add 1 "Lair of Darkness" from your Deck to your hand. You can Tribute 1 DARK monster; draw 1 card, or, if you Tributed a DARK monster other than this card to activate this effect, you can add 1 DARK monster with 2000 or more DEF from your Deck to your hand, instead. You can only use this effect of "Ahrima, the Wicked Warden" once per turn.
"Now, I activate Lair of Darkness.", Yuriko said.
Yuriko
Hand: 5
Lair of Darkness
(Field Spell)
Effect: All face-up monsters on the field become DARK. Once per turn, if you would Tribute a monster you control to activate a card effect, you can Tribute 1 DARK monster your opponent controls, even though you do not control it. Once per turn, during the End Phase: Special Summon as many "Torment Tokens" (Fiend/DARK/Level 3/ATK 1000/DEF 1000) as possible to the turn player's field in Defense Position, up to the number of monsters Tributed this turn while this card was face-up.
Darkness creeped in from all around only making the realm more eerie.
"Now, I will summon my true self…Lilith, Lady of Lament.", Yuriko said as darkness swirled around her hitting the field.
Yuriko
Hand: 4
The power it gave off forced them to raise their arms in defense.
Lilith, Lady of Lament
(FIEND/DARK/EFFECT/ ATK 2000/ DEF 0/ LV3)
Effect: If this card is Normal Summoned, its original ATK becomes 1000. (Quick Effect): You can Tribute 1 DARK monster; reveal 3 Normal Traps from your Deck, your opponent randomly chooses 1 for you to Set on your field, and you shuffle the rest back into your Deck. You can only use this effect of "Lilith, Lady of Lament" once per turn.
Lilith, Lady of Lament ATK 2000 - 1000
"When I am normal summoned my attack is reduced to 1000.", Lilith said.
"I see…so you've been an evil spirit this whole time.", Issachar said.
"Not just any she's Lilith…the seducer. When I think about it now it makes sense.", Jonathan said, becoming very tense.
"From your limited perspectives I may seem evil. But, I fight for a world of freedom where the strong can shape it as they see fit.", Lilith said.
"What a disgusting world…what about the weak, huh? What happens to them?", Jonathan questioned.
"Heh. Obviously they either get smart or they die.", Lilith replied, dismissively.
"The strong are supposed to protect the weak.", Isabeau replied.
"You think that because you've all been collared by weak cowards and drafted into battle. You'll see soon…I activate my effect to tribute one dark monster to reveal three normal traps from my deck. You must randomly pick one and that one is set. The rest are shuffled back into my deck.", Lilith said.
She revealed: Full Force Virus, Eradicator Epidemic Virus and Mirror Force.
After sacrificing herself she jumped back onto where she was in human form. She shuffled the three cards around showing their backs to Issachar. He sweated nervously; two of the three were unfamiliar to him and the one he knew could be catastrophic if chosen.
The others were very nervous as well hoping it wasn't Mirror Force.
"I choose…the middle card.", Issachar declared as he pointed at the middle one.
Lilith then set the card facedown.
"Next I will activate Ancient Rules allowing me to special summon one normal monster from my hand. I choose Tri-Horned Dragon.", Lilith said.
Yuriko
Hand: 2
Tri-Horned Dragon
(DRAGON/DARK/NORMAL/ ATK 2850/ DEF 2350/ LV8)
Card text: An unworthy dragon with three sharp horns sprouting from its head.
The dragon smiled wickedly at the Samurai. Issachar noticed the play wasn't too dissimilar from one he would make. Perhaps this was some sort of test?
"I will set a card.", Lilith said.
Yuriko
Hand: 1
"Now, I will attack your monster with Tri-Horned Dragon! Over Doom Cannon!", Lilith declared.
The card destroyed was Totem Dragon.
"I end my turn. Now, due to my field spell I get two Torment Tokens. Try not to disappoint me, Issachar.", Lilith said.
"So, you remembered my name? Hah, I won't! I draw!", Issachar said as a wind kicked up.
Issachar
Hand: 4
"During my standby phase when I control no monsters I can special summon Totem Dragon.", Issachar said.
Totem Dragon
(DRAGON/EARTH/EFFECT/ ATK 400/ DEF 200/ LV2)
Effect: This card can be treated as 2 Tributes for the Tribute Summon of a Dragon-Type monster. If this card is in your Graveyard during your Standby Phase and you control no monsters, you can Special Summon this card in Attack Position. You cannot activate this effect if there are any monsters in your Graveyard that are not Dragon-Type. If this card is Special Summoned with this effect, remove it from play when it is removed from the field.
"Then, I shall tribute it! With its effect it counts as two tributes! Dragon with a heart of The Lord and the fury of the devil! Spread your different colored wings to rise and defeat evil! Level 8! Light and Darkness Dragon!", Issachar chanted.
Issachar
Hand: 3
Light and Darkness Dragon
(DRAGON/ LIGHT/EFFECT/ ATK 2800/ DEF 2400/ LV 8)
Effect: Cannot be Special Summoned. While face-up on the field, this card is also DARK-Attribute. Once per Chain, during either player's turn, when a Spell Card, Trap Card, or monster effect is activated: This card loses exactly 500 ATK and DEF and that activation is negated. When this card is destroyed and sent to the Graveyard: Target 1 monster in your Graveyard (if possible); destroy all cards you control, also Special Summon that monster (if any).
"I activate Stamping Destruction allowing me to destroy a spell or trap on the field if I control a dragon monster and deal 500 damage to you.", Issachar said, pointing at the card she set with her effect.
Issachar
Hand: 2
Stamping Destruction
(Normal Spell)
Effect: If you control a Dragon monster: Target 1 Spell/Trap on the field; destroy that target, and if you do, inflict 500 damage to its controller.
"Then I'll activate my trap Full Force Virus! I can tribute one dark monster with 2000 or more defense then I look at your hand, all monsters you control and all cards you draw until the end of your third turn with 1500 or less defense.", Lilith countered, making the Samurai flinch.
Full Force Virus
(Normal Trap)
Effect: Tribute 1 DARK monster with 2000 or more DEF; look at your opponent's hand, all monsters they control, and all cards they draw until the end of their 3rd turn after this card's activation, and destroy all those monsters with 1500 or less DEF.
"This is the power of cards created from the souls of the weak.", Lilith said.
Yuriko LP 4000 - 500 = 3500
Flynn's eyes visibly widened, Isabeau put her hand over her mouth, Jonathan tensed and Navarre looked slack jacked.
"I beg your pardon?!", Navarre said as Issachar was forced to reveal his hand.
"Not so fast! I activate my monster's effect! Once per chain of a monster, spell, or trap effect is activated my monster loses 500 and the activation is negated!", Issachar countered.
Issachar sweated nervously as he did so. Flynn felt his heart practically stop as worry filled him.
Light and Darkness Dragon
ATK 2800 - 500 = 2300
"This isn't over! I shall attack you your monster! Chaos Destruction Cannon!", Issachar declared.
"What is he doing?!", Navarre questioned.
"I activate my trap Dimensional Prison! When an opponent's monster declares an attack I can target and banish that monster.", Lilith countered.
Dimensional Prison
(Normal Trap)
Effect: When an opponent's monster declares an attack: Target that attacking monster; banish that target.
Issachar snickered at this frowning deeply,
"I end my turn. But now I get a Torment Token.", Issachar said.
"Is that truly all the power you possess? I draw!", Lilith said.
Yuriko
Hand: 2
"I summon Armageddon Knight.", Lilith said.
Yuriko
Hand: 1
Armageddon Knight
(WARRIOR/DARK/EFFECT/ ATK 1400/ DEF 1200/ LV4)
Effect: When this card is Summoned: You can send 1 DARK monster from your Deck to the GY.
"I will send a dark monster to my graveyard using its effect. I will send Dark Grepher. Now, since I have exactly 3 dark monsters in my graveyard I can special summon Dark Armed Dragon!", Lilith said.
Yuriko
Hand: 0
Dark Armed Dragon
(DRAGON/DARK/EFFECT/ ATK 2800/ DEF 1000/ LV7)
Effect: Cannot be Normal Summoned/Set. Must be Special Summoned (from your hand) by having exactly 3 DARK monsters in your GY. You can banish 1 DARK monster from your GY, then target 1 card on the field; destroy that target.
"Issachar…", Flynn said in a worried tone.
"I activate the effect of Dark Armed Dragon. I can banish a dark monster to target one card on the field and destroy it! I will banish Amrima and Dark Grepher to destroy both your facedowns! Dark Destruction!", Lilith said.
"Then, I will activate my trap Threatening Roar! Now, you can't declare an attack this turn!", Issachar countered.
Flynn desperately tried to calm his beating heart as he closed his eyes. The other card destroyed was Rush Recklessly.
"I must have faith in Issachar now more than ever.", Flynn thought.
He put his hand over his chest. It took everything within him not to just pounce on Lilith.
"You can do this, Issachar!", Flynn cheered.
"It seems this duel isn't over just yet. I end my turn.", Lilith said.
Jonathan found himself praying for Issachar's success. Lilith's cards were ridiculously strong so he'd need it.
"I draw!", Issachar said.
Issachar
Hand: 3
"I activate Pot of Greed allowing me to draw two cards."; Issachar said.
Issachar
Hand: 4
"I set a monster and a card then I end my turn.", Issachar said.
Issachar
Hand: 2
"I draw!", Lilith said.
Yuriko
Hand: 1
"I will banish myself from the graveyard to destroy your facedown monster! Dark Destruction!", Lilith said as Issachar tensed.
"I attack your token with Armageddon Knight!", Lilith declared.
Issachar sweated as now he was left wide open with only one facedown.
"I attack you directly with Dark Armed Dragon! Darkness Claw!", Lilith declared.
Issachar LP 4000 - 2800 = 1200
Issachar winced in intense pain when the dragon slashed him leaving a noticeable gash on his chest. Jonathan and Navarre hastily tried to hold Flynn back from jumping in.
"I'm alright…!", Issachar assured.
"Not for long! I attack you directly with Tri-Horned Dragon! Over Doom Cannon!", Lilith declared.
"I activate Draining Shield allowing me to negate your attack and gain life points equal to its attack.", Issachar countered.
Draining Shield
(Normal Trap)
Effect: If an opponent's monster declares an attack: Target the attacking monster; negate that attack, and if you do, gain LP equal to that target's ATK.
He felt revealed as the shield healed his wounds after draining power from Lilith's monster.
Issachar LP 1200 2850 = 4050
"I end my turn.", Lilith said.
"I draw!", Issachar said.
Issachar
Hand: 3
"The effect of Totem Dragon triggers special summoning itself. I will tribute Totem Dragon! This monster cannot and will not be contained or yield! A massive dragon with scarlet red flames descends! Tribute summon! Level 8! Tyrant Dragon!", Issachar chanted.
Issachar
Hand: 2
Tyrant Dragon
(DRAGON/FIRE/EFFECT/ ATK 2900/ DEF 2500/ LV8)
Effect: During your Battle Phase, if your opponent controls a monster after this card's first attack, this card can make a second attack. Negate any Trap effects that target this card on the field, and if you do, destroy that Trap. This card cannot be Special Summoned from the GY, unless you Tribute 1 Dragon monster.
Flynn's face became more hopeful seeing the monster Issachar summoned. Isabeau rubbed his shoulder.
"Like I said. It will be alright.", Isabeau said.
"I will set a card then attack Dark Armed Dragon! Tyrant Inferno!", Issachar declared.
Lilith LP 3500 - 100 = 3400
"Then, I will activate Tyrant Dragon's effect! If my opponent possesses a monster after his first attack he can attack twice! Wind Stamping Destruction! He'll attack Tri-Horned Dragon! Tyrant Inferno!", Issachar
Lilith LP 3400 - 50 = 3350
"Haha! That's my boy!", Navarre cheered.
"I'll end my turn and I get a token because of your field spell.", Issachar said.
"At least you plan to make things interesting. Perhaps I didn't waste my time on you. I draw!", Lilith said.
Yuriko
Hand: 2
"I activate Hammer Shot, destroying the strongest monster on the field. Which means your Tyrant Dragon says bye bye.", Lilith said.
Yuriko
Hand: 1
Issachar raised up his arms in defense against the force of the impact from his monster being crushed. Flynn looked at Issachar's facedown hoping it wasn't a fake out.
"I attack your token with Armageddon Knight then I end my turn.", Lilith said.
"I draw…", Issachar said.
Issachar
Hand: 4
"Totem Dragon returns to the field! Now, I will tribute! Now, rise up mystic dragon with the soul of a mighty warrior! Burn away all evildoers with your flames of justice! Level 7! Seiyaryu!", Issachar chanted.
Issachar
Hand: 3
The dragon puffed out its chest glaring daggers at Lilith.
"Now, I'll attack Armageddon Knight! Soul Saber Stream!", Issachar declared.
Lilith LP 3350 - 1100 = 2250
"I end my turn and I get another token", Issachar said.
"The duel is much more exciting with all this interaction. Does it not get your blood pumping? I draw!", Lilith said.
Yuriko
Hand: 2
"If by that you mean about to have a heart attack then yes.", Issachar replied.
"I activate Pot of Greed allowing me to draw two cards.", Lilith said.
Yuriko
Hand: 3
"I summon a facedown monster then I set a card.", Lilith.
Yuriko
Hand: 1
Flynn got more excited as he saw Issachar putting her on the edge.
"Get her, Issachar!", Flynn cheered.
"I will, buddy! I draw!", Issachar said.
Issachar
Hand: 4
"I summon Luster Dragon.", Issachar said,
Issachar
Hand: 3
Luster Dragon
(DRAGON/WIND/NORMAL/ ATK 1900/ DEF 1600/ LV4)
Card text: A very beautiful dragon covered with sapphire. It does not like fights, but has incredibly high attack power.
"Now, I will attack your facedown monster with Luster Dragon! Emerald Flame!", Issachar declared.
"I activate my trap Waboku! I take no battle damage and my monsters can't be destroyed by battle this turn.", Lilith countered,
Waboku
(Normal Trap)
Effect: You take no battle damage this turn. Your monsters cannot be destroyed by battle this turn.
Her facedown monster was revealed to be Double Coston.
Double Coston
(ZOMBIE/DARK/EFFECT/ ATK 1700/ DEF 1650/ LV4)
Effect: This card can be treated as 2 Tributes for the Tribute Summon of a DARK monster.
"I end my turn.", Issachar said.
"I draw!", Lilith said.
Yuriko
Hand: 2
Lilith smirked from under her helmet at what she drew.
"I tribute my monster! Awaken dragon slumbering within the darkest depths of Hell! You are bound by your chains no longer! Tribute summon! Level 7! Diabolos, King of the Abyss!", Lilith chanted as darkness enveloped the monster and expanded.
Yuriko
Hand: 1
Issachar looked nervous as the dragon Lilith summoned earlier suddenly emerged with a loud roar. Its gaze made him flinch as if it was gazing into his soul with its eyes of supreme darkness. It gave him a predatory smile,
Diabolos, King of the Abyss
(DRAGON/DARK/EFFECT/ ATK 2800/ DEF 1000/ LV7)
Effect: Cannot be Special Summoned. If you Tribute Summon this card, the Tributes must be DARK. Cannot be Tributed by card effects while face-up on the field. Once per turn, during your opponent's Draw Phase, before their normal draw: Look at the top card of your opponent's Deck, and if you do, place that card on either the top or bottom of their Deck.
"Now, I will attack your Seiyaryu with Diabolos! Supreme Darkness!", Lilith declared.
The dragon fired dark energy that annihilated the light dragon who cried out in pain.
Issachar LP 4050 - 300 = 3750
"I end my turn. Now, I gain a token.", Lilith said.
Issachar sweated at the intense eerie feeling the monster gave off. He felt like it was looking at him like he was raw meat.
"I dra-", Issachar said.
"The effect of Diabolos activates during my opponent's normal draw phase before your draw I can look at your top card then choose to put it on the top of bottom! Inescapable Despair!", Lilith said as Diabolos' eyes glowed menacingly and it roared as it was surrounded in dark energy.
"W-what?!", Issachar questioned.
He nervously revealed his top card which was Fissure. He paled intensely knowing she wasn't going to let him draw that.
"Your card is going to the bottom.", Lilith said as Issachar grimaced at having to send the card to the bottom.
"I draw!", Issachar said.
Issachar
Hand: 4
"I will set a monster and a card. I will set my monsters to defense mode and end my turn.", Issachar said nervously.
Issachar
Hand: 2
"I draw!", Lilith said.
Yuriko
Hand: 2
"I set a card. Then, I will attack your Luster Dragon with Diabolos! Supreme Darkness!", Lilith declared.
Yuriko
Hand: 1
"I end my turn.", Lilith said.
"I-", Issachar said.
"Diabolos effect triggers! Inescapable Despair!", Lilith said as Issachar sweated nervously.
He revealed White-Horned Dragon.
"To the bottom.", Lilith said.
"Is this even fair?!", Navarre questioned.
"I draw…", Issachar said.
Issachar
Hand: 3
"What the hell am I supposed to do if she's constantly manipulating my draws?! I just have to break through somehow…", Issachar thought.
"I will set a card.", Issachar said.
Issachar
Hand: 2
"I draw!", Lilith said.
Yuriko
Hand: 2
"I will summon Doomcalibur Knight!", Lilith said.
Yuriko
Hand: 1
"I will attack your facedown monster with Diabolos! Supreme Darkness!", Lilith declared.
The card destroyed was Golem Dragon.
"I end my turn.", Lilith said, making Issachar raised an eyebrow.
"Why did you…?", Issachar questioned as Flynn became deathly pale.
"White-Horned Dragon is at the bottom of your deck so you cannot tribute a monster with the token strong enough to defeat Diabolos. Not to mention because of that token you can't summon Totem Dragon to allow you to tribute summon a stronger monster. Next, turn the Diabolos and the token will attack you directly. This duel is over.", Lilith explained as Issachar stumbled back.
A deep feeling of despair settled in the pit of his stomach. There was no way…his facedown card was a fakeout. He couldn't stop the attack and Lilith controlled his draws and practically his destiny with Diabolos. It was completely hopeless.
Issachar was completely speechless as he looked down at his duel disk. He had no counter; he could only stall if he was lucky enough to get a monster. He prayed to God for a monster and his fellows did the same. Issachar revealed his top card to be Masked Dragon.
"Diabolos' effect activates! Inescapable Despair! Your card goes to the bottom!", Lilith said.
"Please dear God I need this draw. Surely I must have come this far with Flynn for a reason!", Issachar thought.
"Please God let Issachar stay with me! I'll do anything!", Flynn thought full of panic.
"You have all our support Issachar!", Jonathan said.
"That's right we believe in you and your bonds!, Isabeau added.
"Come on, don't lose like this! Your so close!", Navarre said.
"Issachar…show her that things like fate are meaningless before determination!", Flynn said, his eyes still watery.
"This is what my journey I've gone on with Flynn has been leading me this whole time! Now it's hero time!", Issachar thought.
"I draw!", Issachar said intensely louder than he ever had before.
Issachar
Hand: 3
But there was no wind.
Not even a fart.
Everything was deathly quiet. Issachar's cards were sent to the bottom and currently undrawable leaving him with…Issachar shook seeing his top and probably the last card he'd ever draw Dragon's Gunfire.
Issachar practically dropped his cards left completely stunned. Flynn's heart dropped as the others became extremely nervous.
"I-I end my turn…", Issachar said, sounding like he was going to faint.
In that moment the Samurai were suddenly encompassed with an all consuming despair.
"No! This isn't right! Issachar has heart! I've seen it!", Jonathan said as Flynn shook.
"This is the end…I draw!", Lilith said, menacingly.
Yuriko
Hand: 2
"Now, the image I had of your ultimate despair is complete. I attack your token with Doomcalibur Knight!", Lilith declared.
Now, Issachar was left completely defenseless with only face outs. Issachar collapsed on his knees consumed with despair.
"I attack you directly with my token!", Lilith declared.
Issachar LP 3750 - 1000 = 2750
"Flynn can't bail me out this time…I'm really about to die…", Issachar thought, his gaze went over to Flynn who looked like he was going to lose it.
Isabeau held him closely trying to calm him down. She looked immensely worried for not just him, but Flynn. Issachar put a thumbs up confusing the others. He had a melancholic smile.
"I'm entrusting him to you okay.", Issachar said, addressing Isabeau which made the two flinch.
"What…?!", Isabeau questioned.
"I can tell you really care about him. Make sure to watch him in my place okay.", Issachar said.
"Don't say that, Issachar! You must have something right?!", Flynn questioned, practically begging.
"I attack you directly with Diabolos! Supreme Darkness!", Lilith declared.
Flynn was held back again by all three of his fellows watching as Issachar was blasted with dark energy that completely engulfed him.
Issachar LP 2750 - 2800 = 0
Flynn was unable to control the tears flowing down his face.
"Why…? Why?! What does this always happen?!", Flynn thought as Jonathan had to put his arm around his neck to restrain him.
Jonathan was looking away, his expression looked like he swallowed a bitter pill. Tears threatened to spill as he pulled Flynn back with a heavy heart. They just conducted a Shadow Game and its rules were absolute. Flynn uselessly waved his hands trying to reach Issachar.
The blast left Issachar passed out on the ground. Light burns littered his body which had smoke coming out of it. Lilith stood over Issachar with Diabolos remaining as the only monster that didn't disappear.
"It only seems fair considering he's the one who beat you. In this world there are those who are born special and those who aren't. The only thing the latter can hope for is to be a good meal for a strong spirit.", Lilith said.
She looked over to Flynn who was about to completely lose it. She smirked under her helmet.
"I shall simply make your hate stronger till it completely consumes your being leaving you with nothing else…than a desire for power at any cost.", Lilith thought.
Jonathan and Navarre felt themselves buckle as Flynn's eyes glowed red and he threw Jonathan off him. Jonathan gasped in surprise as he impacted Navarre. Flynn dashed forward and Isabeau grabbed his sleeve. However, Flynn pushed forward till the sleeve broke and Isabeau ended up in a mad dash towards Flynn.
"F-Flynn!", Isabeau cried out as the other two struggled to their feat.
However suddenly a wall of darkness appeared in front of them jutting up from the ground as if the realm was alive. Flynn stumbled back wincing in pain when he hit it dead on causing his nose to bleed.
Behind the wall he saw a spiral of darkness. Suddenly an intense pressure pushed them back and out of the Shadow Realm.
"Issachar!", Flynn cried out.
To be continued...
Extra long chapter because this will probably be the last one for awhile since school starts for me tomorrow. This story's updates will come much slower now.