Aurasoul: Hey everyone! Welcome to another chapter of Yugioh Zexal!
Koru: Posting it again so soon?
Aurasoul: I did say I will.
Darka: Well she is ahead.
Aurasoul: Indeed I am. I don't own Zexal only my OCs but Antares and Sirius belong to Barian-chan, Shane to Shane Kor, Bakura to 0713MM, and Barian-chan and I share Lyra and also a shout out to MM for helping me with my work so now enjoy the show!
Chapter 29
"A final winner takes all?"
"Yes that was her deal."
Nasch had his arms crossed upon what Durbe had told him they and the rest of the Barian Emperors were in the old Kamishiro Manor as a temporary base until Durbe's return. "This can cause damage to either side Darka knows this yet she actually suggests something like this." Merag frowned.
"Yet it does speed along once we gain all the Legendary Numbers we'll be able to know where the Numeron Code is." Durbe pointed out.
"But there's obviously more than that for Darkalicia otherwise she wouldn't put her allies in danger." Misael scowled.
Nasch glanced at Misael for a moment before he spoke. "Darka obviously has another agenda with what I saw from the resonance she's obviously hiding something." He said.
"But so long as Manami is with them we can't do much." Durbe frowned.
"Did you get a chance to see her?" Merag questioned worried.
"Darkalicia allowed me to speak with her actually." Durbe replied.
"She did?" Nasch questioned shocked.
"Yes surprisingly saying that I had every right to see her." Durbe admitted.
"Well yeah she's one of us after all!" Alito snapped.
"But she didn't come back here with Durbe must mean she's a traitor." Girag began.
"Bite your tongue Girag before I freeze it." Merag threatened icely.
Girag became silent at once while Durbe sighed. "It's not so simple for after all we're asking her to betray her family and I can understand her hesitance to do so on them." He frowned.
"Is that what she told you?" Nasch asked.
"Yes and she may have a point as you spoke she has a kind mother and father and Darkalicia and Hotaru are dear sisters to her." Durbe remarked.
"Hmph she's clinging to her human life." Misael scowled.
"So there's no chance for her to come to us?" Merag demanded.
"I didn't say that and neither did she." Durbe countered. "She said it herself she needs time to think."
"And you knew we'd give her that." Nasch stated.
"And more." Durbe replied. "Nasch agree to Darkalicia's terms but under the condition you and Merag speak to Manami I'm sure if you two speak with her she'll come to our side and we'd gain the Legendary Numbers in the long run."
"It would be killing two birds with one stone." Merag agreed thoughtfully.
Nasch frowned lightly thinking back so far of the memories he saw when Darka's accusation rang in his mind.
"Yes that is exactly what I'm saying." She confirmed. They all were shocked as Darka went on. "A Barian Emperor is the only one who fits the bill and we know one is capable of murder, nearly killing me for dead is proof of that." She said.
Nasch turned to his fellow Emperors before shaking his head. Darka could only be doing this in order to put a strain between us all yet…
He then noticed Vector's absence. "Where's Vector?" He questioned.
"Who knows he always disappears like this." Alito shrugged.
"Honestly." Nasch scowled. "At any rate if Darka wants to make this a real fight then that's what we'll do."
"Ok so we're clear on the locations we'll go?"
"Yeah."
The others stood around a table with a map of the city laid out before them Hotaru ran a hand through her hair wearing a beige shirt, blue pants, a blue gray jacket, and brown boots. "Tell me again why these locations though?" She questioned.
"We need the Emperors separated far enough for the others to duel them the others have the citizens in one of the towers for the evacuation which means it's best for the duels to be farther from here." Darka explained.
"It should be fine." Astrana remarked.
Yuma looked at the map then felt a soft tap on his shoulder. He turned to see Manami. She wore a blue short sleeve dress that brushed her knees with a brown belt, a gray sleeveless jacket, and white laced up shoes that laced to her mid leg. "Yuma do you think we can talk for a minute? I need to ask you something." She told him.
"Eh? Sure Manami." Yuma said surprised. "Mind if Astral comes too?"
Manami looked slightly relieved and nodded lead them to another room in order to talk Darka and Hotaru watching. "Should we be worried?" Hotaru questioned.
"Honestly? Maybe but we all have things needing to be said in case of well…" Darka didn't finish, but Hotaru knew what she meant.
"Is that why Astrana isn't next to you like a watch dog with Kaito?" Hotaru asked amused.
"Heh yes she wished to speak with Michael surprisingly." Darka remarked.
Hotaru blinked surprised before she snorted in laughter. "Oh wow glad she's taking initiative." She snickered.
"Huh? What do you mean?" Darka asked surprised.
"Let's just say you missed some things while you were gone." Hotaru smirked.
"I'm still worried about this plan." III frowned.
"It's understandable." Astrana said gently.
The two stood on the balcony Astrana wishing to speak with him as she stood next to him in her human form as she gently touched his hand. "But we do not have to beat them in our duels all we need to do is destroy their Over Hundred Numbers with their Legendary Numbers and hopefully free them." She assured.
"But if one of you loses then you'll be." III couldn't finish looking pained holding her hand tightly.
"Oh Michael…" She whispered softly.
She then reached to hug him, surprising him for a moment before he hugged back. "You truly are so kind to worry for us and even for me." She smiled softly.
"Well I really care about you Astrana." He admitted, hoping to hide his flushed face as he held her.
She looked at him surprised but then smiled sweetly. "So do I." She smiled, kissing his cheek.
He looked at her stunned touching his cheek which made her worry. "Did I do something wrong? I've seen Hotaru and your brother do this before so I…" She began.
But III hugged her making her gasp. "No it's fine really it is." He smiled.
Seeing his smile made her flush slightly and she leaned on him happily unknown to them Darka, Hotaru, IV, and V were watching them IV and Hotaru grinning while Darka gaped. "I'm so proud of you III." IV grinned.
"Ok wait a moment you mean while I was gone for who knows how long Astrana and Michael?!" Darka began flabbergasted.
"It pays to pay attention Darky." Hotaru snickered, pushing her away.
"B-But how could I have?!" Darka questioned, before she groaned. "She's growing up so fast!"
"Now you sound like a tearful parent." IV laughed.
Darka scowled at IV but on the inside she was glad Astrana found someone especially if it was III knowing he would be there for her the most when things got rough.
Darka stood on the roof of the tower both Astrana and Kaito by her side as they waited to see if the Barian Emperors would come. "Think they'll show up?" Kaito questioned.
"Shark isn't one to turn down a challenge plus with the stakes he shouldn't have a reason to turn it down." Darka replied lightly.
"You're calling him Shark." Astrana remarked.
Darka shrugged. "In all honesty I'm calling him whichever same with Rio I had to deal with stuff like this way too often." She replied.
"Somehow I believe that." Kaito smirked.
Darka smiled at him when she looked up to see colored lights coming toward them before landing to reveal the Emperors in their Barian forms. "You made it." She remarked.
"We have and you're not alone." Nasch remarked.
"Well considering what happened to me these two have become my watch dogs." Darka admitted with a small chuckle. "So then I take it you agree to the deal?"
"We do but under one condition." Nasch replied.
"A condition?" Darka asked curiously.
"You allow me and Merag to see Manami." Nasch replied.
"You wish to speak with her." Darka stated.
"Is that a problem?" Nasch challenged.
"Oh no not at all if you wish to speak with your wife you have the right." Darka replied nonchalantly.
At once Nasch and Merag flinched.
"So you know that too." Nasch stated.
"Yes though it wasn't hard to figure out." Darka shrugged. "Since she is your queen of, Barian World it only makes sense to realize she was your wife back then."
"Then if you know this, why block her from us?" Nasch demanded.
"Because before she is someone's wife she is my sister." Darka frowned. "And her safety comes first."
"And you think me and Nasch can't keep her safe?" Merag frowned deeply. "If so, what was the point of this deal of yours?"
"Because even if I am her sister she has the right to make her own choices." Darka sighed. "What happens next will be what she decides. Now then your opponents for each of you-! I see Vector isn't with you. I suppose that's fine…"
"I dunno what Vector's planning, but it can't be good." Nasch frowned. "If he intervenes in these 6 battles, I'll put an end to him." Darka looked at Nasch for a moment before she gave a light smile.
"Alright then. Now your opponents for each of you are in different locations and don't worry we already evacuated the citizens who weren't absorbed in Barian World to a safe location so you can go all out if you wish." She told them. "Alito your opponent is at the harbor, Durbe's at the school, Girag's near the Duel Sanctuary, and Nasch and Merag your opponent is at the main square."
"What of my opponent?" Mizael demanded.
"Come now Misael I thought yours would be obvious." Darka replied with a chuckle, the spirit of Dragluon appearing behind her.
"So you're my opponent?" Mizael frowned deeply as he narrowed his eyes. "What are you really planning here, Darka?"
"I just thought it would be best if I be your opponent to settle things between us." Darka replied. "And don't worry Kaito and Astrana won't intervene. It'll only be between us and our dragons."
"Humph. Fine." Mizael remarked. "I personally would rather face Kaito, but considering how insistent you can be, there's no point in arguing with you."
"You would know." Darka smirked.
"Wait a minute Darka, mine and Nasch's opponent. It's the same person?" Merag questioned.
"Your opponent was adamant on facing you both. I had no choice." Darka shrugged. "It was fine with me really. If you have a problem with it, take it up with your opponent."
"There's only one person who'd take me and my sister on at the same time." Nasch muttered to himself. He turned on his heel and began to walk out. "Come on Merag, let's go."
"Yes brother." Merag spoke as she followed him out.
"Darkalicia is my opponent, who I believe to be?" Durbe questioned with narrow eyes.
"You have to see for yourself Durbe." Darka replied. Without a word Durbe left along with Alito and Girag; leaving Darka, Mizael, Kaito, and Astrana on the roof.
"Now then shall we begin Mizael?" Darka asked with a smile.
"Humph. Fine." Mizael grunted.
"Hmph why am I not surprised it's you Yuma." Alito stood at the harbor where Yuma waited for him. Astral and Kotori by his side.
"Alito you're my friend and that's why I'll duel you in order to save you!" Yuma said, determined.
"Save me? From what?" Alito frowned. "In case you haven't noticed, I'm perfectly fine." He then narrowed his eyes. "I dunno what Darka told you guys, but this plan of hers makes it seems we're all just pawns in a game." He clenched his right hand into a fist. "Well I'm not a pawn! Especially not to her!" He pointed his right index finger at Yuma. "I'll duel you with my full strength! Nothing holding me back from crushing you! I hope you do the same, Yuma!"
"Alito…" Kotori frowned worried.
"Don't worry Kotori. Me and Astral can handle this." Yuma assured her, before facing Alito. "Then let's duel Alito!"
"So you're my opponent?" Girag looked unimpressed as Elizabeth stood in front of him Shane stood on the side emotionless.
"You may only see me as a human but I won't lose!" She yelled.
"Try if you can!" Girag cracked his knuckles.
"Let's do this Ponta." Elizabeth spoke, Ponta appearing next to her.
"Yeah! We'll snap Kiraku right out of it, pon!" Ponta nodded.
"So I was right you're my opponent Sirius." Durbe stood in front of the school where Sirius sat waiting for him before he stood up.
"Before you say anything, I chose to duel you. Darka didn't force me or ordered me." Sirius told his brother. "I'm here as your brother not a Barian Guardian, Durbe-nii."
"I see Then that would also mean." Durbe began.
"Yes that's right." Sirius nodded, confirming his suspicions. "Know these are our choices no one elses."
"Very well then Sirius." Durbe replied. "As one of the Barian Emperors, I will defeat you for the sake of Barian World."
"Heh didn't expect anything less." Sirius replied with a light smirk.
Nasch and Merag reached the main square walking before seeing a familiar someone sitting on a bench before looking up.
"You two made it." Manami replied with a faint smile. To them Manami looked exhausted just as Durbe told them both physically and obviously mentally as she stood up brushing any dust off her dress.
"So then the one we're dueling." Merag began softly.
"Is you Manami." Nasch spoke. Manami gave a gentle smile getting up from the bench she sat.
"Expecting Thomas maybe?" She asked.
"In a way." Nasch answered.
"Understandable, but I asked Darka to allow me to be the one to duel you two." Manami said.
"Do you honestly think you can beat us?" Merag questioned.
"Won't know unless I try." Manami said with a small smile.
"Manami, why are you fighting us? You're one of us; there's no point in you fighting against us." Nasch began. But Manami held up her hand to stop his words as she tapped the ground with her heel as it began to glow blue. "With this, the loser's soul won't be absorbed to Barian World." She said, looking at the two. "Nasch, Merag, truly I wish to return to you both so much, but I cannot betray the others such as the way you did. Instead I'll allow the cards to guide me."
"What do you mean?" Merag questioned.
"If I win this duel, you have to return back to our side." Manami explained, as she raised her arm. "But if I lose, then I shall go with you two and take my place as the rightful eighth Barian Emperor." The two gasped at this, shocked. They looked at one another before Nasch looked at her with a serious expression.
"If you would come back to us, then you have to fight with us against Yuma, Astral, Darka, Astrana, and the others; no matter the ties you have with them. You have to cut them all and be loyal to us alone. Do you understand?" He demanded. Merag looked at her brother, stunned before looking at Manami; who had a frown, yet nodded.
"Yes I understand completely." She nodded.
"Then it's agreed." Nasch nodded.
"Then let's begin." Manami said.
Within the City of Heartland, multiple voices rang out, starting their battles.
"DUEL!"
"I'll go first Durbe-nii." Sirius replied. "Draw! I Normal Summon Sacred Wing - Unicorn!" The unicorn Sacred Wing galloped onto the field with a neigh. (Sacred Wing - Unicorn, Attribute: LIGHT, Level: 4, Type: Normal/Beast, ATK/DEF: 1500/1200. Sirus's hand: 5 cards. Durbe's hand 5 cards. Sirius's LP: 4000. Durbe's LP: 4000.)
"When I have a Sacred Wing monster on my field, I can Special Summon this card from my hand. Come, Sacred Wing - Giant Eagle!" Sirius continued, as a large eagle flew with a screech landing on the unicorn's back. (Sacred Wing - Giant Eagle, Attribute: LIGHT, Level: 4, Type: Winged Beast/Effect, ATK/DEF: 1400/1200. Sirus's hand: 4 cards. Durbe's hand 5 cards. Sirius's LP: 4000. Durbe's LP: 4000.)
"I Overlay my Level 4 Sacred Wing - Unicorn and Giant Eagle!" Sirius yelled, as the two monsters became yellow mists and went in the Overlay Network. "With these two monsters, I build the Overlay Network! Xyz Summon! Appear, Number 44! Oh eternal laborer, now rise from your ancient sleep, and become the wings that soar through the sky! White Winged Horse - Sky Pegasus!" The pegasus Number appeared onto the field, flapping its wings with a neigh. (Number 44: White Winged Horse - Sky Pegasus, Rank: 4, Attribute: LIGHT, Type: Beast/Xyz, ATK/DEF: 1800/1600. Sirus's hand: 4 cards. Durbe's hand 5 cards. Sirius's LP: 4000. Durbe's LP: 4000.)
"Sky Pegasus…" Durbe mused. "Alright fine."
"Do you remember him, Durbe-nii? Do you remember Mach?" Sirius asked softly. Durbe closed his grey eyes, then reopened them.
"Of course I remember Mach." Durbe replied, however, if his lips could be seen, there'd be a deep frown on them. "But I do not need or want his help anymore. I'm here to defend Barian World. I'll do whatever it takes to ensure its survival. Even if it means I have to defeat you where you stand. Sorry Sirius." Sirius frowned yet continued.
"Then let me ask you something: Do you recall how you and Mach died back then?" He asked. Durbe paused for a moment or so. Eventually, he retorted:
"Yes, I do remember." Durbe replied. "We were assaulted by my fellow knights."
"Just them?" Sirius questioned.
"As far as I can remember, yes." Durbe remarked. "Why are you asking me this?"
Just like Darka had said. His memories don't recall Don Thousand. Which means I have to do as she instructed. Sirius thought with a frown, before replying.
"I wasn't there when you had died. I was only told what had happened that day. So I wanted to hear it from you."
"Well, that's what happened that day." Durbe retorted. "I was killed by my fellow knights."
"Thank you for the confirmation Durbe-nii." Sirius replied lightly, taking two cards. "I place two cards face-down and end my turn." (Sirus's hand: 2 cards. Durbe's hand 5 cards. Sirius's LP: 4000. Durbe's LP: 4000.) Durbe placed his right hand ontop of his Deck.
"My turn then. Draw!" Durbe declared as he drew. (Sirus's hand: 2 cards. Durbe's hand 6 cards. Sirius's LP: 4000. Durbe's LP: 4000.) Durbe looked at the cards in his hand, then grabbed 1 and revealed it to Sirius.
"Since I control no monsters, I can Special Summon Star Seraph Saucer from my hand!" Durbe announced as he placed the card on his duel disk. A flying yellow saucer (UFO/Castle of Dark Illusion-like kind of saucer) appeared onto Durbe's field. (Star Seraph Saucer, attribute: LIGHT, type: Fairy, Level 4, ATK/DEF: 600/2100. Sirus's hand: 2 cards. Durbe's hand 5 cards. Sirius's LP: 4000. Durbe's LP: 4000.)
"A different Star Seraph." Sirius frowned.
"That's right." Durbe nodded. "And since it was Special Summoned, I can Special Summon 1 Level 4 Star Seraph monster from Deck with its effects negated." A card ejected out of Durbe's Deck; thus he grabbed it placed onto his duel disk. "I'll Special Summon Star Seraph Scale from my Deck." A scale with the Star Seraph emblem appeared next to Saucer. (Star Seraph Scale, Level 4 LIGHT Fairy-type monster, ATK/DEF: 1500/900. Sirus's hand: 2 cards. Durbe's hand 5 cards. Sirius's LP: 4000. Durbe's LP: 4000.) After the scale appeared, a card in Durbe's hand glowed yellow; thus he revealed the card to Sirius.
"Since a Star Seraph monster was Summoned, I can Special Summon Star Sovereignty from my hand." Durbe continued as the chair appeared next to Scale. (Star Seraph Sovereignty, Level 4 LIGHT Fairy-type monster, ATK/DEF: 800/2000. Sirus's hand: 2 cards. Durbe's hand 4 cards. Sirius's LP: 4000. Durbe's LP: 4000.)
"And since Sovereignty was Summoned via its effect, I can draw 1 card." Durbe continued. "If I draw a monster, I can Special Summon it."
"Then make your draw." Sirius replied.
"I will." Durbe spoke as he drew a card from his Deck. He looked at the card he drew and he chuckled. "I drew a monster card. Star Seraph Scepter to be accurate. Which is now Special Summoned." The blue scepter fairy appeared next to Sovereignty. (Star Seraph Scepter, Level 4 LIGHT Fairy-type monster, ATK/DEF: 1800/400. Sirus's hand: 2 cards. Durbe's hand 4 cards. Sirius's LP: 4000. Durbe's LP: 4000.)
"Four monsters…" Sirius frowned.
"Four monsters?" Durbe remarked. "I might as well make it five monsters." Durbe grabbed another card from his hand. "I Normal Summon Star Seraph Scout from my hand." The blue-winged fairy soared down from above so it was next to Scepter. (Star Seraph Scout, Level 4 LIGHT Fairy-type monster, ATK/DEF: 1200/1800. Sirus's hand: 2 cards. Durbe's hand 3 cards. Sirius's LP: 4000. Durbe's LP: 4000.)
"Now that's all done, I shall use my Level 4 Scepter, Sovereignty, and Scale to build the Overlay Network!" Durbe announced as he raised his right arm upwards. Once he did, his 3 monsters became 3 yellow streams of energy and flew into the galaxy-like portal, which exploded. "Arise from the depths of Barian World become the soldier that shall fight by my side! Xyz Summon! Appear! Rank 4! Star Seraph Soldier!" A yellow-armored fairy warrior wielding 2 swords appeared onto Durbe's field. (Star Seraph Soldier, attribute: LIGHT, type: Fairy/Xyz, Rank 4, ATK/DEF: 2500/2000. Xyz Materials: 3. Sirus's hand: 2 cards. Durbe's hand 3 cards. Sirius's LP: 4000. Durbe's LP: 4000.)
"Soldier, huh?" Sirius frowned.
"That is correct." Durbe replied. He looked at Sirius, then at Sky Pegasus, then back at Sirius. If Durbe wasn't in Barian form, Sirius would see a sly smile on his brother's lips. "Did you really think I'd Xyz Summon my Over-Hundred Number this early in the duel? I know your plan with Number 44. You plan to use it to defeat Number 102: Star Seraph Sentry. Well as you can see, Star Seraph Soldier is not my Over-Hundred Number. But it gets worse." Durbe thrusted his right hand forward. "And to prove it, I shall activate Scepter's 2nd effect! Since he was used as Xyz Material for the Xyz Summon of a monster that requires at least 3 Xyz Materials, I can destroy 1 card you control, then I can draw 1 card. So Sky Pegasus, begone!" Soldier raised his 2 swords and fired 2 energy beams towards Number 44 in the shape of an X.
"Trap activate! Sacred Cleansing! Scepter's effect makes that effect the Xyz's monster's effect, which means I can activate cleansing to negate it." Sirius spoke, as a shield blocked the energy beams.
"Humph. Not bad brother." Durbe commented. "But even so, Number 44's effect is absolutely useless to you thanks to my Soldier. So long as it has Xyz Material, I take 0 effect damage."
Should've known it wouldn't be that simple with Durbe-nii. He isn't the Barian's White Shield for nothing. Sirius thought with a frown. Even so, to free him I have to get him to Summon his Over Hundred Number.
"Since I Normal Summoned this turn, I can now Special Summon Star Seraph Shield from my hand in Defense Position." Durbe continued as the yellow shield monster appeared onto Durbe's field. (Star Seraph Shield, attribute: LIGHT, type: Fairy, Level 4, ATK/DEF: 100/2000. Sirius's hand: 2 cards. Durbe's hand 2 cards. Sirius's LP: 4000. Durbe's LP: 4000.)
"Thanks to my Shield, not only does it gain an extra 1000 DEF, but you cannot attack any other monsters I control except him." Durbe explained. "Which means you'd have to get a monster with more than 3000 ATK on your field."
"So I see." Sirius remarked lightly.
"But now Scale's effect that got added to my Soldier activates." Durbe spoke. "Once a turn, if a monster(s) is Special Summoned from the hand, I can draw 1 card. I shall do so now." Durbe drew his card and looked at it. "Perfect. I now activate the Field Spell Star Seraph Supremacy." The field around the 2 changed to show Scepter, Scale, and Sovereignty in the background of what appeared to be Seraph Energy. "Thanks to this card, all my Star Seraph Xyz monsters gain 500 ATK/DEF. And so long as this Field Spell remains on my field, you cannot negate the activations of my Star Seraph effects, nor can you negate the Special Summons of my Star Seraph monsters." Durbe explained. "So basically, I've nullified your strategy. What will you do now, Sirius?"
"Do what I think is right. Just as I've always done." Sirius frowned.
"I know." Durbe nodded as he grabbed the last 2 cards in his hand. "I set 2 cards. Then battle! Soldier, attack Number 44! I know a Number cannot be destroyed by battle except by another Number, but you'll still take damage!" Just like with its effect Scepter gave it prior, the Soldier leapt forward and slashed at Number 44 in an X formation.
"Trap activate! Lumenize! When your monster attacks, I can negate that attack and one LIGHT attribute monster on my field gains ATK equal to the attacking monster's ATK until my next End Phase!" Sirius yelled.
"So be it." Durbe remarked. "So now Number 44 gains my Soldier's 3000 ATK until your End Phase. Very well. I end my turn." (Sirius's hand: 2 cards. Durbe's hand 0 cards. Sirius's LP: 4000. Durbe's LP: 4000.) "And at my End Phase, Soldier's effect activates! Dealing us both 1000 damage. Of course, since my Soldier has Xyz Material, I don't take 1000 damage." A yellow formed around Durbe as the 2 swords shot 2 energy beams towards Durbe and Sirius. The first beam bounced off of Durbe's shield and dissipated. The 2nd beam however, flew towards Sirius; thus hitting him in the upper chest area.
"UGH!" Sirius winced, as the beam hit him. (Sirius's LP: 4000 - 1000 = 3000. Sirius's hand: 2 cards. Durbe's hand 0 cards. Sirius's LP: 3000. Durbe's LP: 4000.)
"Your move, Sirius." Durbe told his brother.
"Ngh. My turn, draw!" Sirius spoke. (Sirius's hand: 3 cards. Durbe's hand 0 cards. Sirius's LP: 3000. Durbe's LP: 4000.)
"It's true that Number 44 has 4800 ATK." Durbe spoke up. "But unfortunately, it'll be wasting its attack on my Star Seraph Shield. Meaning your attack boost from Lumenize won't do you much good."
"You think so?" Sirius smirked. "Sky Pegasus, attack Star Seraph Shield!" Sky Pegasus neighed as it galloped towards the fairy shield. Durbe watched in amusement as Sky Pegasus continued its galloping towards his Star Seraph Shield.
"You seem confident that your attack will hit its mark." Durbe noted.
"You have a countermeasure?" Sirius questioned.
"Why yes I do." Durbe remarked as he gestured to one of his set cards. "I activate the Counter Trap card, Holy Barrier! Since you declared an attack on my LIGHT monster, your attack is negated!" A barrier of holy wall blocked Sky Pegasus's attack, which said horse bounced off.
"It'll take more than that to defeat me, Sirius." Durbe told him. "But your main obstacle in that goal of yours is my Star Seraph Shield. And once you get past him, you have to get past my other 2 monsters."
"Then that Shield has to go." Sirius frowned. "I activate the Quick-Play Spell, Return to Battle! When my Battle Phase has ended and I inflicted no battle damage, I can attack again!"
"What?" Durbe frowned.
"Now go Sky Pegasus attack Star Seraph Shield once again!" Sirius yelled. Sky Pegasus's wings glowed before galloping and striked the Shield. Durbe tsked as his monster shattered. (Sirius's hand: 2 cards. Durbe's hand 0 cards. Sirius's LP: 3000. Durbe's LP: 4000.)
"Now it's my Main Phase 2. I activate the Spell Card Sacred Feather. Which lets me draw 2 cards!" Sirius continued.
"Very well." Durbe remarked as Sirius drew 2 more cards from his Deck. (Sirius's hand: 3 cards. Durbe's hand 0 cards. Sirius's LP: 3000. Durbe's LP: 4000.)
"I play another Spell card, Sacred Xyz Removal! By paying 200 LP, I can banish the Overlay Units of 1 Xyz monster on the field! So your Soldier's Overlay Units are gone."
"Not quite yet!" Durbe countered. "I activate my Soldier's Quick Effect! By using 1 Xyz Material, I can return 1 card you control to the hand, and I think you know which card I'm picking." Durbe pointed his right index finger at Number 44. "Sky Pegasus, begone!" Soldier began to glow yellow as it slashed one of its Xyz Materials with one of its two swords, which then fired a beam of energy at said Number. "Me and Mach used to be friends, Sirius, but I see no reason to go back to something I can never have again! Number 44 represents that past bond, so by getting off it the field, I don't have to be reminded of it!"
"Then would that mean our bond as brothers is the past to you Durbe-nii?" Sirius challenged with a frown. At Sirius's words, Durbe froze for a few seconds. He quickly replied with:
"N-No Sirius, that's not what I meant." Durbe retorted. "I meant my bond with Mach being severed by getting his Number form off the field. Our brotherly bond will always be eternal. Even if we're fighting on opposite sides of this war."
"Forgive me if I have my doubts Durbe-nii. For that was the same for you and Mach." Sirius frowned. "You and Mach had an eternal bond as well and still do. Saying you would sever it is the same as saying you would sever the bond between us. Along with yourself and Manami."
"Tch…..! You're twisting my words, Sirius." Durbe frowned. "My eternal bond with you and Manami is different than with Mach." He paused, then added. "It's true that I held an eternal bond with Mach, but unlike him, humans have a longer lifespan. Barians and Astral Beings have a longer lifespan than anything. Aside from the universe itself. My bonds with you and Manami will become stronger than what they already are. Mach on the other hand...not so much. Animals do not live as long as humans anyways. They probably get a good 10-15 years of life before passing away. Humans get a good 80 to 90, perhaps even 100 years of life, if they treat their body right." Durbe paused, then added. "In other words, what I'm trying to say Sirius is that my bond with Mach was over the moment me and him died at the hands of my fellow knights."
"...You truly haven't come to realize it." Sirius frowned with a sigh. "For though it is true lives are short, their souls live on with us."
"Their souls?" Durbe questioned.
"That's right." Sirius nodded, tapping his chest with a fist. "For it is the same with Guardian Wolf and Glorious Serpent. For though they perished with me on that day, they still continued to stand by my side." As Sirius said this, the spirits of Guardian Wolf and Glorious Serpent appeared next to him, along with Corvus, his sisters Regina and Lupine, and even Bandit Wolf.
"My bonds with them, along with the rest have been with me even while I became a Barian. We have all come this far together. For our bonds are not just through the living, but also in spirit. Such is the same for you and Mach. For Mach lives on within Sky Pegasus."
"...I know." Durbe replied.
"If you do know this, then why fight it?" Sirius questioned.
"Humph. You're my brother, you should know the answer to that." Durbe retorted coolly.
"Is it just because of this war? A war that doesn't need to be fought?" Sirius questioned.
"...Do you know another way to save Barian World from its death? One that doesn't include gaining all the Numbers?" Durbe inquired. "Because if you do know, please tell me."
"I may not have the answer, but that doesn't mean we can all find another alternative together." Sirius frowned.
"Another alternative? Working with Yuma and his pals?" Durbe remarked with a frown. He waved his hand dismissively at the thought. "Thanks, but no thanks. I don't need to hear about Yuma's impossibility striving."
"I'll admit, Yuma may be reckless, but even he can form the impossible with that Kattobingu spirit of his." Sirius smirked. "Not just him, but Darka as well. The two are people that can help us find another way that won't cause any striving. They have my trust, along with the leader of the Barian Guardians."
"...Then you and Mother are fools." Durbe snapped. "Putting your faith in Yuma and Darka to help us save Barian World? That's like a 1 and 1,000,000 chance of succeeding! And that's a risk I'd rather not take!"
"And you think doing all this will save Barian World? Sacrificing this world for us?" Sirius demanded. "The world where we all once lived?"
"In war, sacrifices have to be made Sirius." Durbe retorted. "And I can agree with you that sacrificing Earth is a desperate move. But desperate times call for desperate measures I'm afraid."
"If that's really the case Durbe-nii, then I'll have to show you that there's more than 2 paths in front of you." Sirius frowned. "I Summon Corvus the Sacred Wing Pup!" The young wolf pup appeared on the field with a happy bark rushing to Sirius's side. (Corvus the Sacred Wing Pup, Attribute: LIGHT, Level: 4, Type: Beast/Effect, ATK/DEF: 1300/1400. Sirius's hand: 1 card. Durbe's hand 0 cards. Sirius's LP: 3000. Durbe's LP: 4000.)
"Your Soldier's effect only sends cards to my hand and since Sky Pegasus is an Xyz monster, he returned to the Extra Deck instead. Which means I can Summon him once again." Sirius spoke.
"And your Corvus counts as 2 Xyz Materials for the Summon of a LIGHT Xyz monster if I'm not mistaken." Durbe noted.
"That's right I overlay my Level 4 Corvus who counts as 2 Xyz Materials!" Sirius called, Corvus barked happily before becoming yellow mist and going to the Overlay Network. "With this monster I build the Overlay Network! Xyz Summon! Return once more, Number 44: Sky Pegasus!" Sky Pegasus reappeared to the field once more, neighing.
"Humph. So you Summoned Number 44 again." Durbe spoke. Suddenly, his grey eyes widened. "Oh no! Since your Quick-Play removed my Soldier's Xyz Materials, Number 44's effect can work now!"
"That's right Durbe-nii. Now I activate Sky Pegasus's effect! By using one Overlay Unit, I can destroy one monster on your field!" The Overlay Unit hit Sky Pegasus's wings causing them to glow. "But you can negate this effect by giving up 1000 LP. What will it be Durbe-nii?" Sirius questioned.
"I'll pay 1000 LP to negate your effect." Durbe retorted. He tsked as Sky Pegasus glowed brightly. (Durbe's LP: 4000 - 1000 = 3000. Sirius's hand: 1 card. Durbe's hand 0 cards. Sirius's LP: 3000. Durbe's LP: 3000.)
"I activate the Xyz Treasure to be able to draw cards for Xyz monsters on the field. Since there's 2, I draw 2 cards. Next I Equip Spell Sacred Wings of Power and equip it to Sky Pegasus!" Sirius continued, Sky Pegasus's wings glowed in power. "With this, Sky Pegasus's ATK points are doubled, but I can't Summon or attack with any other monster, except Sky Pegasus." (Number 44: Sky Pegasus ATK: 1800 * 2 = 3600. Sirius's hand: 1 card. Durbe's hand 0 cards. Sirius's LP: 3000. Durbe's LP: 3000.)
"I end my turn by placing 1 card face-down." Sirius finished. (Sirius's hand: 0 cards. Durbe's hand 0 cards. Sirius's LP: 3000. Durbe's LP: 3000.)
"That very well may be." Durbe spoke. "But because of my Soldier, we both take 1000 damage." The Soldier raised his 2 swords up and slashed both Sirius and Durbe. (Durbe's LP: 3000 - 1000 = 2000. Sirius's LP: 3000 - 1000 = 2000. Sirius's hand: 0 cards. Durbe's hand 0 cards. Sirius's LP: 2000. Durbe's LP: 2000.)
We both now have 2000 LP and Durbe-nii doesn't have any cards in his hand. What happens next will be the most crucial. Sirius thought with a frown.
"My turn, draw!" Durbe declared as he drew his card. (Sirius's hand: 0 cards. Durbe's hand 1 card. Sirius's LP: 2000. Durbe's LP: 2000.) Durbe looked at the card he drew and he frowned.
"Not the best card to draw, considering your Number's effect." Durbe frowned. "Oh well. Might as well use it. I Normal Summon Star Seraph Sarcophagus to my field." A yellow coffin-like fairy that bore the Star Seraph symbol appeared next to Scout. (Star Seraph Sarcophagus, attribute: LIGHT, type: Fairy, Level 4, ATK/DEF: 900/1900. Sirius's hand: 0 cards. Durbe's hand 0 cards. Sirius's LP: 2000. Durbe's LP: 2000.)
"I use my Sarcophagus's effect. By paying 900 LP, I can revive 1 Star Seraph monster from my Graveyard." Durbe explained. "I choose to revive the monster that was detached from my Soldier last turn. Return, Star Seraph Scepter!" The scepter returned as Durbe's glowed red. "Tsk…! Now Number 44 deals me 900 points of damage." (Durbe's LP: 2000 - 900 - 900 = 200. Sirius's hand: 0 cards. Durbe's hand 0 cards. Sirius's LP: 2000. Durbe's LP: 200.) "Now that Scepter is back, I shall use it to add another Sovereignty from my Deck to my hand." A card ejected from Durbe's Deck and he added it to his hand. (Sirius's hand: 0 cards. Durbe's hand 1 card. Sirius's LP: 2000. Durbe's LP: 200.)
3 Level 4 monsters once again. Is it coming? Sirius thought.
I COULD Xyz Summon Number 102: Star Seraph Sentry and get a draw to occur. Durbe thought. But wait! Maybe that's what Sirius wants! Well in that case… Perhaps I should Xyz Summon my Over-Hundred Number. Durbe shook his head. No! I refuse to Xyz Summon my Over-Hundred Number!
"I overlay my 3 Level 4 Star Seraph monsters!" Durbe declared as he raised his right arm upwards. All 3 monsters turned into 3 yellow streams of energy that soared into the overlay network portal. "The survivor of many wars has become the greatest veteran of the battlefield and ascended to the heavens above! Xyz Summon! Appear now! Rank 4! Star Seraph Survivor!" The banged out yellow-armored fairy warrior came out of the Overlay Network holding a hammer in its hand as its weapon. (Star Seraph Survivor, attribute: LIGHT, type: Fairy/Xyz, Rank 4, ATK/DEF: 3000/2500 (originally 2500/2000.) Sirius's hand: 0 cards. Durbe's hand 1 card. Sirius's LP: 2000. Durbe's LP: 200.)
"Another different Star Seraph Xyz?" Sirius scowled.
"Are you surprised?" Durbe questioned. "Even if I Summon my Over-Hundred Number, I'd have to deal you at least 1000 damage for this duel to end in a draw. But I see clearly that it is impossible. However…" Durbe thrusted his right hand forward. "I still intend to fight until the bitter end! Sovereignty and Scepter's effects activate! Scepter shall destroy your set card and I'll get to draw 1 card!"
He didn't destroy Sky Pegasus? Sirius thought with a frown as his set card shattered and Durbe drew a card.
"Now that that is done, Sovereignty Special Summons itself and I draw 1 card." Durbe explained. "You know the dealio, so I won't explain it and just draw." He drew again and he smiled. "Good. I drew Star Seraph Seal, which is Special Summoned to my field." A blue lock-like fairy monster with the Star Seraph symbol appeared onto Durbe's field next to Sovereignty. (Star Seraph Seal, attribute: LIGHT, type: Fairy, Level 4, ATK/DEF: 1300/1500. Sirius's hand: 0 cards. Durbe's hand 1 card. Sirius's LP: 2000. Durbe's LP: 200.)
Now there's 2 Level 4 monsters and he's surely not done yet. Sirius thought with a frown.
"Seal's effect!" Durbe announced. "Since it was Special Summoned, I draw 1 card, then I can Special Summon 1 Star Seraph monster from either my hand or Graveyard. I shall draw!" He drew and looked at the card he drew, then he revealed it. "I drew Star Seraph Spear, which I'll now Special Summon!" A yellow spear appeared next to Seal. (Star Seraph Spear, attribute: LIGHT, type: Fairy, Level 4, ATK/DEF: 2000/1000. Sirius's hand: 0 cards. Durbe's hand 1 card. Sirius's LP: 2000. Durbe's LP: 200.)
"Now a spear?" Sirius frowned.
"I have 3 Level 4 monsters once again Sirius." Durbe told his brother.
"Then get it over with Durbe-nii." Sirius retorted. "Like you I won't back down."
"Then I shall overlay 3 Level 4 monsters!" Durbe announced as the 3 monsters soared into the now formed Overlay Network Portal, which exploded. "Come forth Number 102! Golden Halo wield your weapon of lightning in thy name of your ruler! Star Seraph Sentry!" Out of the portal came forth the Over-Hundred Number next to Soldier. (Number 102: Star Seraph Sentry, Rank 4 LIGHT Fairy-type Xyz monster, ATK/DEF: 4000 (originally 2500)/2000. Xyz Materials: 3. Sirius's hand: 0 cards. Durbe's hand 1 card. Sirius's LP: 2000. Durbe's LP: 200.)
"Star Seraph Sentry." Sirius frowned.
Something is telling me to play this card! Durbe thought as he stared at the last card in his hand. He looked up at Sky Pegasus. Could it be the aura radiating from Number 44?
Sky Pegasus neighed flapping his wings making Sirius look up at him.
Sky Pegasus? Could you be trying to reach out to him even now, Mach? He thought. Durbe grabbed the last card from his hand and activated it.
"I activate Mystical Space Typhoon to destroy my Field Spell!" Durbe declared, not even fully realizing why he was doing it.
"What?! Your Field Spell?!" Sirius gaped.
"Yeah." Durbe nodded as his Field Spell shattered and all his Star Seraph Xyz monsters ATK dropped by 500.
Just what is Durbe-nii planning? If he uses Star Seraph Sentry's ability to half Sky Pegasus's ATK. With the boost from the Field Spell, he could still easily win. So why? Sirius thought with a frown.
What am I doing?! Durbe thought. I could have won this duel had I used Number 102's effect to not only half Sky Pegasus's ATK, but negate his effects. Now because of my stupid move, I've cost myself the duel. He glanced over at his 2nd face-down card. Wait! If I play that…..!
"I now activate Safe Zone! I target Number 44 with this card so he won't be destroyed in battle!"
"Eh? So Sky Pegasus won't be destroyed?" Sirius questioned, watching as Sky Pegasus glowed by the card's effect. Durbe switch his other 2 Xyz monsters to Defense, which surprised even himself.
What am I doing?! Durbe thought. I can still win this duel! So why am I doing this?! He shook his head.
"No matter. Sentry's effect! I use 1 Xyz Material to half Sky Pegasus's ATK and negate its effects!" Durbe continued.
"Now Sky Pegasus is back to 1800." Sirius frowned.
"That's right it is." Durbe retorted as he thrusted his right hand forward. "Battle! Star Seraph Sentry, attack Sky Pegasus!" Bow at the ready, Star Seraph launched an arrow of light hitting Sky Pegasus's wing causing it to neigh in pain.
"Sky Pegasus!" Sirius gasped. At Sky Pegasus getting injured by his Over-Hundred Number, Durbe winced and clutched his shoulder that was on the same side as Sky Pegasus's wing.
"Tsk…..! What is this feeling?" Durbe questioned aloud. Sirius grew wide eyed looking at his brother before at Sky Pegasus.
Could the Barian Emperors be connected to their Legendary Numbers in a more deeper sense? He thought shocked, before facing Durbe.
"Durbe-nii don't you see?! You may think you have lost the bond you had with Mach, but it still lives on; even now!" Durbe didn't even hear Sirius as several memory flashes went through Durbe's mind.
*Flashback*
Durbe winced in pain, clutching onto Mach who was wounded, yet still held up his wings to shield his master. Durbe looked at the 3 knights he considered his allies as they raised their swords to them.
"Why my friends? Why would you do this?" Durbe questioned weakly. Then suddenly Durbe heard dark chuckling he looked and gasped to see a dark cloaked figure behind the 3 knights, a scythe in hand; chuckling maliciously.
"Wh-Who are you?" Durbe gasped, shocked. Mach neighed seeing the cloaked figure as he raised his hand and the 3 knights stepped forward raising their swords and Durbe saw their expressions.
"So it was you! You did this to them!" Durbe yelled.
"That's right. And now you will be my piece for my revival." The figure smirked wickedly. The figure threw a glowing light that embedded into Durbe's chest, causing him to scream in pain just as the 3 Knights swung their swords.
*End of Flashback*
Durbe's grey eyes widened as the memory flashes faded from his vision.
"Durbe-nii?" Sirius voiced worried.
"Huh?!" Durbe gaped as he looked up at Sirius. "Sirius?"
"Could it be…? Your memories, do you remember?" Sirius blinked, shocked.
"Ugh…...my head." Durbe groaned as he put his hands to his head; his Barian form dissipated and he returned to his Human form.
"Durbe-nii!" Sirius gasped, rushing to his brother's side.
"Sirius!" Durbe retorted. "Stop!" Sirius gasped, stopping, shocked by the shout. "I understand you're concerned about me and all, but our duel isn't over yet." He closed his eyes, a small smile appearing on his lips, then he reopened his eyes. "And to answer your earlier question, yes, my memories have returned. My real memories." Sirius grew wide eyed glancing at Sky Pegasus who neighed.
"So Darka was half right." He remarked with a small smile.
"Half right?" Durbe questioned before he glanced at Sky Pegasus, then back at Sirius. "Wait, so she was wrong about the Legendary Numbers having to destroy the Over-Hundred Numbers? Humph. So if I'm right, that means they only have to battle for us Barian Emperors true memories to be revealed. Interesting." He then chuckled lightly. "Not as interesting as the fact that you took 1700 points of damage, Sirius. Which means at my End Phase, my Soldier will deal us both 1000 damage."
"And this duel will end in a tie." Sirius realized.
"That's right." Durbe nodded. "I end my turn." Upon him saying that, Soldier raised his 2 swords and threw them at the 2 brothers. (Durbe's LP: 200 - 1000 = 0. Sirius's LP: 300 - 1000 = 0.)
Both Sirius and Durbe cried out, falling to the ground as the swords pierced them before their monsters disappeared. Sirius winced sitting up and went to Durbe's side.
"Are you alright?" He asked, worried.
"Ugh…" Durbe groaned as he sat up slowly.
"Close enough." Sirius sighed, before he got serious. "So then you saw who was responsible for your death."
"Yeah." Durbe nodded as he stood up fully.
"That was Don Thousand. He manipulated you and the rest of the Emperors in order to use all of you for his revival." Sirius told him.
"Kuh…!" Durbe tsked angrily. "He'll pay for that!"
"Darka knew you wouldn't believe her if she told you all this, so that's why she planned this." Sirius sighed.
"Wait you mean?!" Durbe began.
"It was never about gaining the Legendary Numbers. It was all to free you." Sirius smirked. "Didn't expect that huh Durbe-nii?" Durbe crossed his arms.
"Unexpected? Yes. Stupid? Also yes." Durbe remarked coolly.
"Hmph. At any rate you should know the real enemy." Sirius frowned, motioning to the tower. "Vector is working with Don Thousand and is responsible for the worlds coming together. We all need to work together in order to defeat them."
"I already knew Vector was the reason the 3 worlds are merging." Durbe frowned. "Regardless, fine. I'll team up with you lot to defeat Vector and Don Thousand." He put a hand to his chin. "But who will Vector go after next?" His eyes widened. "Oh no! Knowing Vector, he'll go after Nasch and Merag next! Who should still be dueling at this rate. With the 2 dueling, they'll be vulnerable to Vector's assault!"
"Not just them. Manami too." Sirius paled. "She's the one dueling them!"
"You're right!" Durbe nodded in agreement. "She is closest to Nasch and Merag. Vector hates Nasch, Merag, and anyone close to them. With that in mind, Manami will be struck first to anger Nasch and Merag." He paused, then frowned deeply. "Thomas Arclight, also known as IV, is close to Manami. If she is indeed Vector's next target, and Thomas gets word of it, he'll be furious."
"Not only that, but if Vector attacks Manami, then he'll absorb her soul and Don Thousand will be a step closer to his revival." Sirius scowled. "We have to go now."
"Right." Durbe nodded. "Let's go, Sirius!"
"Right!" Sirius nodded. The 2 then quickly headed off, hurrying to center square.
Aurasoul: And that is done!
Hotaru: So you put Sirius and Durbe's duel first.
Aurasoul: Indeed I did and the next duel is coming up next so until then read and review!