We've reached the 100th chapter of the new version of Crimson Star Priestess and we're still far from the end of the story. I can't predict how long this fanfic will be in the end, but I hope you will enjoy the rest of the adventure and the surprises I'll be adding.
Big thanks to CitrusUnshiu who helped me coming up with a new summon chant for a Synchro Monster that will be reintroduced in this chapter.
Special thanks to darkworldprince who pointed out a crucial thing in the chapter when I posted it the first time.
Special thanks to Okazakisan who gave me an idea to edit the last part of the Turbo Duel.
Sherry and Mizoguchi's Team Royal Knights riding suits can be found on my DeviantArt page.
The chapter begins in Mizoguchi's point of view.
Disclaimer: I do not own any Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's characters! I only own my OCs!
Chapter 100: Royal Knights VS. New World – Part 2
It was quite unfortunate that Ms. Aki was defeated after her first victory of the Turbo Duel. However, both teams were now down to two Turbo Duelists each and our team was going to be victorious. There is no way I will let the organization who murdered Master and Mistress accomplish their objective of destroying our world.
I caught up to Primo as we both entered the Duel lane. Once I had adjusted my Duel Runner to drive straight, I drew the top five cards of my Deck. I received Elder of the Six Samurai, Kagemusha of the Six Samurai, Legendary Six Samurai – Kizan, Speed Spell – Speed Energy, and Call of the Haunted.
"Mizoguchi and Primo have entered the Duel lane!" the MC announced. "Continue the Turbo Duel!"
"Duel!" Primo and I yelled simultaneously.
Primo: 4000 LP = SPC 6
Mizoguchi: 4000 LP = SPC 6
"My turn. Draw!" I called, drawing my sixth card, which was Double-Edged Sword Technique.
Primo: 4000 LP = SPC 6 – SPC 7
Mizoguchi: 4000 LP = SPC 6 – SPC 7
I already had a plan formed, but my main concern was Primo's facedown card. It could be a trap to destroy my Monster once I summoned it. I recalled watching Team New World's quarterfinal Turbo Duel with Milady and Ms. Aki in which Primo had used the same Trap card multiple times while he was Dueling.
"When my opponent controls a Monster and I control none, I can Special summon Elder of the Six Samurai from my hand in defense mode!"
Elder of the Six Samurai, Level 3: DEF 0
"I activate my Trap; Torrential Tribute!" Primo counteracted. "When a Monster is summoned, every Monster on the field is destroyed!"
A wave of water poured out from the Trap card and caught his own and my Monster and washed them away before the exploded into pieces.
"I activate Machina Citadel's effect in my Graveyard! When a face-up EARTH machine Monster I control is destroyed by battle or card effect while Machina Citadel is in the Graveyard, I can Special summon it to the field!"
Machina Citadel, Level 10: ATK 3000
Just as I had suspected, and I was thankful he took the bait.
"I summon Kagemusha of the Six Samurai in defense mode!" I called.
Kagemusha of the Six Samurai, Level 2, Tuner: DEF 1800
"Since I control a Six Samurai with a different name, I am allowed to Special summon Legendary Six Samurai – Kizan from my hand in attack mode!"
Legendary Six Samurai – Kizan, Level 4: ATK 1800
"I tune Level 2 Kagemusha of the Six Samurai and Level 4 Legendary Six Samurai – Kizan! Synchro summon! Appear now, Goyo Guardian!"
Goyo Guardian, Level 6: ATK 2800
Goyo Guardian had been recently added to my Deck after Milady received new cards for her Deck by the Crimson Dragon. It was necessary to upgrade the Decks that were our only weapons effective against Iliaster, especially now during the finals of the Grand Prix.
"Hm? A new Synchro Monster of yours?" Primo asked. "It couldn't be found among your history of Duels when my team did some research about your team."
I chose not to comment on his remark. "I now play the Speed Spell – Speed Energy! I can play it while I have 2 or more Speed Counters. I target Goyo Guardian and it gains 200 attack points for each Speed Counters I have until the End Phase. I have 7 Speed Counters, so Goyo Guardian gains 1400 attack points."
Goyo Guardian, Level 6: ATK 2800 – ATK 4200
"Battle! Goyo Guardian, attack Machina Citadel with Goyo Lariat!"
Goyo Guardian twirled the chain of his jitte before he swung it at the large machine Monster. The weapon pierced itself through Machina Citadel, leaving a hole on its frame before it exploded into smoke and shards in front of Primo.
Primo: 4000 LP – 2800 LP = SPC 7
Mizoguchi: 4000 LP = SPC 7
"Goyo Guardian's effect! When he destroys an opponent's Monster by battle and sends it to the Graveyard, I can Special summon that Monster to my field in defense mode!"
The remnants of Machina Citadel flew around in a tornado as they reshaped the Monster. Once it was complete, Goyo Guardian swung his jitte as a lasso and wrapped Machina Citadel with it. He pulled Primo's Monster over to my field, giving me some defense against him.
Machina Citadel, Level 10: DEF 2500
"How intriguing", Primo chuckled sarcastically. "You're supposed to be the good guys and yet you stole one of my Monsters. How our positions have switched."
Once again, I chose not to answer him. "I place two cards facedown and end my turn. Goyo Guardian's attack points return to normal."
Goyo Guardian, Level 6: ATK 4200 – ATK 2800
"My turn. Draw!" Primo shouted.
Primo: 2800 LP = SPC 7 – SPC 8
Mizoguchi: 4000 LP = SPC 7 – SPC 8
"I activate Machina Ruinforce's effect in my Graveyard! In order to Special summon it from the Graveyard, I must banish machine Monsters from the Graveyard whose total Levels equal 12 or more. I banish Level 9 Machina Metalcruncher and Level 7 Machina Fortress from the Graveyard. Raise from the abyss, Machina Ruinforce!"
The sky suddenly turned dark by grey clouds that appeared out of nowhere. The atmosphere also became thick with the powerful scent of motor oil. A large gate appeared on the Duel lane as Machina Ruinforce levitated up from it. Its machine parts made noise as they moved after resting for so long that there were some rust marks on the frame.
Machina Ruinforce, Level 10: ATK 4600
"What is that monstrosity?!" the MC exclaimed. "A Level 10 with over 4500 attack points?! It looks like Mizoguchi is quite the pickle against that powerhouse! How will he get past Machina Ruinforce?"
"I activate Machina Resavenger in my hand!" Primo declared. "In case you do not remember, I can send it to the Graveyard to give my Machina Monster 1200 additional attack points."
Machina Ruinforce, Level 10: ATK 4600 – ATK 5800
I restrained myself from showing any signs of frustration. If Primo proceeded with the attack and he chose Goyo Guardian, my Life Points were going to receive a large amount of damage.
"Battle! Machina Ruinforce, attack Goyo Guardian!"
Machina Ruinforce released a metallic screech and raised its two arms with four barrels each. I could hear the sound of cartridges getting loaded from the frame before the Monster fired multiple bullets. Goyo Guardian tried using his jitte to block the bullets, but it was inevitable. He got struck by some of the bullets he missed and exploded into pieces.
Primo: 2800 LP = SPC 8
Mizoguchi: 4000 LP – 1000 LP = SPC 8
"Machina Resavenger's effect! Since Machina Ruinforce successfully destroyed your Monster, Machina Resavenger returns from the Graveyard to my hand. I place one card facedown and end my turn. Machina Ruinforce's attack points are back to normal."
Machina Ruinforce, Level 10: ATK 5800 – ATK 4600
"My turn. Draw!" I called, drawing Speed Spell – Shift Down.
Primo: 2800 LP = SPC 8 – SPC 9
Mizoguchi: 1000 LP = SPC 8 – SPC 9
"I activate my Continuous Trap; Call of the Haunted!" I continued. "I target Goyo Guardian in my Graveyard and Special summon him in attack mode!"
Goyo Guardian, Level 6: ATK 2800
"In that case, I activate my Continuous Trap; Cyber Summon Blaster!" Primo shouted as a blaster appeared on his field. "Each time a machine Monster is Special summoned, while this card is already face-up in my Spell and Trap Zone; I inflict 300 points of damage to you!"
Hm. Quite the bothersome Trap card.
"I activate my Trap; Double-Edged Sword Technique!" I called. "I target two Six Samurai Monsters in my Graveyard and Special summon them in attack mode, but they are destroyed at the End Phase of this turn and I will take damage equal to those destroyed Monsters' attack points. Return, Kagemusha of the Six Samurai and Elder of the Six Samurai!"
Kagemusha of the Six Samurai, Level 2, Tuner: ATK 400
Elder of the Six Samurai, Level 3: ATK 400
"I tune Level 2 Kagemusha of the Six Samurai and Level 3 Elder of the Six Samurai! The true warrior will lead its comrades to victory by sacrificing himself! Synchro summon! Appear, Legendary Six Samurai – Shi En!"
Legendary Six Samurai – Shi En, Level 5: ATK 2500
"There we have one of your signature Synchro Monsters", Primo commented. "I can't help but question why you would summon such a weak Monster against my Machina Ruinforce. You're just delaying the inevitable."
I hate to admit it, but he was right. Everything depended now on the last card in my hand. "I play the Speed Spell – Shift Down! By removing 6 Speed Counters, I am allowed to draw two cards."
Primo: 2800 LP = SPC 9
Mizoguchi: 1000 LP = SPC 9 – SPC 3
This was it. I prayed the spirit of Bushido was with me. Even if I might draw two cards unable to use, I will fight my way to the end. That is the way of the warrior.
I placed my fingers on top of my Deck and drew the top two cards. I rarely expressed myself, but now I felt my lips twitch slightly upward by the sight of the cards.
"I banish Elder of the Six Samurai and Legendary Six Samurai – Kizan from the Graveyard to Special summon Enishi, Shien's Chancellor!" I shouted.
Enishi, Shien's Chancellor, Level 6: ATK 2200
"Next I summon Shien's Advisor in defense mode!"
Shien's Advisor, Level 4: DEF 400
"Shien's Advisor's effect! If this card is Normal summoned while I control a Six Samurai Monster, I may declare one Monster type; while this card is face-up on the field, Monsters with the declared Monster type cannot declare an attack or be Special summoned. I declare…the machine Monster!"
"Curses!" Primo swore.
I couldn't help but feel relieved to buy some time and immobilize Iliaster's machine Monsters with Shien's Advisor. And with the help of Enishi…
"Enishi, Shien's Chancellor's effect! Once per turn, I can target one face-up Monster and destroy that target, but the price is Enishi isn't allowed to attack the turn this effect is activated. I target Machina Ruinforce!"
Enishi drew his katana out from the sheath strapped by his waist and held it in front of him as he closed his eyes. He soon opened them with a serious expression and flew towards the machine monstrosity. He raised his katana and slashed Machina Ruinforce from the top to the bottom, cutting the machine Monster in two. Enishi flew back just before Machina Ruinforce exploded into an inferno that engulfed Primo. I kept driving ahead with my four Monsters as I watched the display screen on the dashboard. The rearview camera showed Primo driving out of the massive cloud of smoke, so I knew he was safe. I didn't wish my enemies harm, but this Turbo Duel had to continue to the finish line.
"Curse you!" Primo snarled as he drove past me. "I cannot activate Machina Ruinforce's effect to Special summon one of my banished Machina Monsters because of your Shien's Advisor!"
"Battle!" I yelled. "Goyo Guardian, attack directly with Goyo Lariat!"
My Synchro Monster flew toward Primo while swinging his jitte around to prepare his attack. Once he felt satisfied, he threw the jitte at the enemy and hit him straight on his back. Primo grunted loudly by the impact as his Life Points were reduced to zero.
Primo: 2800 LP – 0 LP = SPC 9
Mizoguchi: 1000 LP = SPC 3
"That was a quick Turbo Duel!" the MC exclaimed in the intercom as Primo left the Duel lane. "Mizoguchi was in a disadvantage because of his low Life Points and Primo dominating the field with his Machina Ruinforce, but the samurai fought back and not only immobilized the machine Monsters but also destroyed the monstrosity! This may look bad for Team New World's last Duelist, Jakob Carreras."
I drove off the Duel lane by the next exit to follow Primo to the pits and entertain my team's admirers with the presence of my Monsters. It didn't take long before I caught up to Primo and we drove together to the stadium. He drove to Team New World's pit as I made a dash through the stadium. I gave a nod to Milady and the rest of our team as I passed them and drove forward to return to the Duel lane.
I drove past a corner when my ears heard the noise of a Duel Runner approach me from behind. I looked over my shoulder and saw the third Emperor of Iliaster drive toward me on a large orange Duel Runner with Primo's Cyber Summon Blaster floating next to him. I knew I had quite the large body, but Jakob's was obviously unnaturally large.
"I knew Lester and Primo were too weak to take care of you and the Signer", Jakob spoke through the intercom while we entered the Duel lane. "I shall dispose of you and your madam."
"I will not allow you to harm Milady", I responded while maintaining my emotions.
"Team New World's final Duelist has entered the lane!" the MC announced. "Will Jakob turn the Turbo Duel or will he get defeated by Mizoguchi? Let's find out!"
"Duel!" Jakob and I yelled determinedly.
Jakob: 4000 LP = SPC 9
Mizoguchi: 1000 LP = SPC 3
"My turn. Draw!" Jakob called.
Jakob: 4000 LP = SPC 9 – SPC 10
Mizoguchi: 1000 LP = SPC 3 – SPC 4
"Before I do anything reckless, I Tribute your Shien's Advisor to Special summon Gameciel, the Sea Turtle Kaiju from my hand to your field in attack mode!"
The ground below Shien's Advisor transformed into water and it didn't take long before a shadow swam beneath the surface. Its bright eyes shone through the water before a large blue reptile head shot out with its mouth open and devoured Shien's Advisor with one bite. Gameciel flew up from the water and screeched before it settled down among my warrior Monsters.
Gameciel, the Sea Turtle Kaiju, Level 8: ATK 2200
"What a move!" the MC exclaimed. "Jakob got rid of Mizoguchi's Shien's Advisor by Special summoning Gameciel, the Sea Turtle Kaiju! This means Jakob is able to Special summon and attack with his machine Monsters without any restrictions!"
That was unexpected. I recalled Jakob didn't have this kaiju Monster in his Deck in the quarterfinals. Did he modify the Deck after his team's first victory?
"I can tell I caught you off guard with Gameciel, you brave but foolish warrior", Jakob commented. "I continue my turn by activating Speed World 2! I remove 10 Speed Counters to destroy one card on the field and I choose your Goyo Guardian!"
Jakob: 4000 LP = SPC 10 – SPC 0
Mizoguchi: 1000 LP = SPC 4
The Speed World 2 Field Spell's effect caused thunderclouds to appear above us with the lightning cracking among them. Seconds later, a lightning bolt struck Goyo Guardian and destroyed him along with Call of the Haunted. I was down to three Monsters now, but that wasn't going to stop me.
"I summon Superheavy Samurai Battleball in defense mode!"
Superheavy Samurai Battleball, Level 2, Tuner: DEF 800
"I activate Superheavy Samurai Battleball's effect! If all Monsters I control are Superheavy Samurai and I have no Spell or Trap cards in my Graveyard, I can target one face-up Monster my opponent control that has a Level; I send both Superheavy Samurai Battleball and Gameciel, the Sea Turtle Kaiju from the field to the Graveyard to Special summon from my Extra Deck one Superheavy Samurai Synchro Monster whose Level equals the total original Levels of those two Monsters in the Graveyard. This Special summoning is treated as a Synchro summon. I Special summon Superheavy Samurai Warlord Susanowo in defense mode!"
Superheavy Samurai Warlord Susanowo, Level 10: DEF 3800
"Cyber Summon Blaster's effect activates! It inflicts 300 points of damage for my Special summoned machine Monster!"
The blaster of the Trap card loaded energy before firing a white laser beam that engulfed me. I gritted my teeth as my Duel Runner wobbled a little, but I quickly regained control as I rounded a corner.
Jakob: 4000 LP
Mizoguchi: 1000 LP – 700 LP = SPC 4
"Superheavy Samurai Warlord Susanowo's effect! Once per turn, during either player's turn, if I have no Spell or Trap cards in my Graveyard; I can target one Spell or Trap card in my opponent Graveyard and set it on my side of the field, but it is removed from play when it leaves the field. I target your Call of the Haunted."
The holographic image of my Trap card appeared on the field before it was transferred over to Jakob's side of the field and was set next to his face-up Cyber Summon Blaster.
"The special thing about Synchro Superheavy Samurai is that they are able to attack while in face-up defense mode and they will use their defense points for damage calculation", Jakob explained. "Battle! Superheavy Samurai Warlord Susanowo, attack Enishi, Shien's Chancellor!"
Warlord Susanowo drew his sword from a compartment on his back before flying toward Enishi. I knew there was only one outcome of this battle. There was nothing else I could do but to submit to the sword.
Enishi was slashed through the abdomen before he shattered into pieces, his remnants raining upon me as my Life Points scrolled down to zero.
Jakob: 4000 LP
Mizoguchi: 700 LP – 0 LP = SPC 4
"That was an incredible comeback from Team New World's Jakob Carreras!" the MC called. "This means the final match is between both teams' captains!"
My part of this battle was over. Everything was now up to Milady.
XXXXXXXXXX – Sherry's POV
I expected some hardships against Team New World, but this Turbo Duel had certainly astonished me. From my observation, Lester's way of Dueling was like a game for him. Primo stepped up and brought out quite the force, but now Jakob was using defense as offence. It was like they completed each other in a perfect harmony, like they somehow were one…
I had to remind myself the Three Emperors were androids, so it made sense they must have used their advanced machine brains to come up with a flawless strategy. However, the human brain could possibly still outsmart the artificial intelligence.
As soon as Mizoguchi's Turbo Duel was over, I immediately prepared my Duel Runner with Nakamura's help. We rolled it out of the garage and parked it in front of the stripe where I had to wait for my guardian to pass the tag patch.
I inserted my Deck in the Wrist Dealer that shuffled the cards for three seconds. There was a tense silence as my teammates and I waited for Mizoguchi's return. Aki especially looked anxious with her hands clenched tight and her shoulders shaking.
"Aki", I spoke up.
She snapped out of her trance and the focus in her eyes returned as she concentrated on her. "Y-Yes?" she stuttered.
"Nothing will happen to me out there", I told her. "I swear I will defeat Jakob and lead our team to victory."
Aki was silent for a moment before her expression slightly softened and she gave me a hesitant smile. "Right. But still… You have to be careful."
"Yeah, especially now since both teams are down to their last Duelists", Tanaka nodded. "Jakob is a bulky man with his Superheavy Samurais. He's going to be hard to beat."
"I'm sure Sherry has a plan on how to breach his defense, Sakura", Nakamura told her precious friend.
Mizoguchi pulled into the pit and parked next to me. Tanaka ran forward and grabbed his Synchro Monster from the Duel Disk and placed it on mine. "Forgive me for failing my duty, Milady", Mizoguchi said as he ripped the tag patch from his arm and passed it to me.
"You did everything you could, Mizoguchi", I replied as I placed the sticky tag on my left arm. "I'll make sure to crush Team New World and not waste your and Aki's efforts."
With that said, I sped out of the garage with Mizoguchi's Legendary Six Samurai – Shi En flying above me. I drove out onto the course just as Jakob drove past the stadium with his Superheavy Samurai Warlord Susanowo and the blaster of Primo's Continuous Trap.
"I expected some sort of retaliation from your team, but you exceeded my expectations", Jakob spoke through the intercom.
"I take that as a compliment", I replied as I drew the top five cards of my Deck.
"You should, because this is the last time you will receive one from us", Jakob said as we drove onto the Duel lane.
"This is it, people!" the MC called. "Team New World and Team Royal Knights are down to their last Duelists. Which team will advance to the final and Turbo Duel against the winning team from Block B? Let us find out!"
"Duel!" Jakob and I yelled simultaneously.
Jakob: 4000 LP
Sherry: 4000 LP = SPC 4
"It's my turn! Draw!" I shouted, drawing my sixth card.
Jakob: 4000 LP = SPC 0 – SPC 1
Sherry: 4000 LP = SPC 4 – SPC 5
The first five cards I had in my hand were Guardian Angel Joan, Floral Shield, Fleur Synchron, White Steed of the Floral Knights, and Speed Spell – Speed Energy. The sixth card I had just drawn was Horse of the Floral Knights. This hand was really good; in fact, I already had a strategy in mind.
"I summon Horse of the Floral Knights in attack mode!" I yelled.
Horse of the Floral Knights, Level 3: ATK 400
"Horse of the Floral Knights' effect! When it's successfully summoned, I may add one LIGHT Noble Knight Monster from my Deck to my hand. I choose Noble Knight Joan! Next, I activate Horse of the Floral Knights' second effect! I can Fusion summon one Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck using this card I control and other Monsters from my hand as Fusion Material. I fuse Horse of the Floral Knights and Noble Knight Joan in my hand! I Fusion summon Centaur Mina!"
Centaur Mina, Level 6: ATK 2200
"Centaur Mina's effect! Once per turn, I'm allowed to Special summon one Level 2 or lower Monster from my hand or Graveyard! I Special summon Fleur Synchron from my hand in defense mode!"
Fleur Synchron, Level 2, Tuner: DEF 200
"Cyber Summon Blaster's effect activates, since Fleur Synchron is a machine Monster!" Jakob spoke up.
The blaster hummed as it warmed itself up before firing a beam at me. I was engulfed by the light for a brief moment as the effect dealt a small amount of damage to my Life Points.
Jakob: 4000 LP = SPC 1
Sherry: 4000 LP – 3700 LP = SPC 5
I knew that was going to happen, but I had to sacrifice some of my Life Points to proceed with my plan. "Since I control a Level 2 Monster, I can Special summon White Steed of the Floral Knights in defense mode!"
White Steed of the Floral Knights, Level 6: DEF 1800
There was only one Synchro Monster I could use to actually have a chance against Jakob's Superheavy Samurai Monster. I had added the mysterious Monster to my Extra Deck as a backup plan, and now it was time to use it.
"I tune Level 2 Fleur Synchron with Level 6 White Steed of the Floral Knights! Synchro summon! Appear, Draco Berserker of the Tenyi!"
Draco Berserker of the Tenyi, Level 8: ATK 3000
"What is that Monster?! That wasn't in the database when we researched about your Deck!" Jakob exclaimed in surprise.
"I now play the Speed Spell – Speed Energy!" I called, ignoring my opponent. "I target Draco and increase his attack points with 200 times my five Speed Counters until the end of this turn!"
Draco Berserker of the Tenyi, Level 8: ATK 3000 – ATK 4000
"Battle! Draco, attack Superheavy Samurai Warlord Susanowo!"
Draco screeched as he flew toward Warlord Susanowo. He raised his right arm and clenched the hand into a fist, preparing himself to punch the machine Monster. Susanowo in return drew its sword and used it to block the incoming punch. Sparkles erupted between them while the machine Monster didn't get destroyed. Instead, it got enveloped in a red aura.
"I discard Superheavy Samurai Soulfire Suit from my hand to the Graveyard to reduce Superheavy Samurai Warlord Susanowo's defense points by 800 for this turn, but he isn't destroyed by battle or card effects this turn!" Jakob called.
Superheavy Samurai Warlord Susanowo, Level 10: DEF 3800 – DEF 3000
The attack didn't work, which made me frustrated. If Jakob hadn't used that Soulfire Suit effect to protect his Synchro Monster, it would've been destroyed and cleared the field for a major assault with my two other Monsters.
"I place one card facedown and end my turn!" I shouted as I set my Trap card.
"And both our Monsters' attack and defense points return to normal", Jakob added.
Draco Berserker of the Tenyi, Level 8: ATK 4000 – ATK 3000
Superheavy Samurai Warlord Susanowo, Level 10: DEF 3000 – DEF 3800
"My turn. Draw!" Jakob shouted.
Jakob: 4000 LP = SPC 1 – SPC 2
Sherry: 3700 LP = SPC 5 – SPC 6
"Since I have no Spell or Trap cards in my Graveyard, I can Special summon Superheavy Samurai Trumpeter from my hand in attack mode!"
Superheavy Samurai Trumpeter, Level 2, Tuner: ATK 300
"Since I Special summoned Superheavy Samurai Trumpeter this way, I cannot Special summon Monsters for the rest of this turn, except Superheavy Samurai Monsters. And Cyber Summon Blaster's effect activates!"
The blaster warmed up before it fired a new laser beam at me. I braced for impact and felt the Duel Runner wobble by Solid Vision as the light of the beam engulfed me for a second.
Jakob: 4000 LP = SPC 2
Sherry: 3700 LP – 3400 LP = SPC 6
"I have another Monster in my hand that I can Special summon to the field by not having any Spell or Trap cards in the Graveyard, so I Special summon Superheavy Samurai Big Waraji in attack mode!"
Superheavy Samurai Big Waraji, Level 5: ATK 800
"This means Cyber Summon Blaster activates once again!"
I gritted my teeth as I lowered my head and prepared myself for another blast from the Continuous Trap card. The beam was fired and engulfed for the third time of this Turbo Duel.
Jakob: 4000 LP = SPC 2
Sherry: 3400 LP – 3100 LP = SPC 6
I had to say; this strategy was remarkable. Not only was Jakob playing with Monsters that could attack in defense mode, but he was using the Special summoning to inflict effect damage to me as a back-up plan of defeating me with a burn strategy if his Monsters weren't able to inflict battle damage.
However, I had to somehow get rid of Cyber Summon Blaster. I did have one card in my Deck that could provide me a little help, but I needed to draw it in order for that.
"I tune Level 2Superheavy Samurai Trumpeter with Level 5 Superheavy Samurai Big Waraji! Synchro summon! Appear, Superheavy Samurai Stealth Ninja!"
Superheavy Samurai Stealth Ninja, Level 7: DEF 2800
"Cyber Summon Blaster activates!"
This was getting very repetitive. I rounded a sharp curve as the Trap card fired another laser beam and engulfed me. I did my best to keep the balance while having the eyes on the course. It was difficult because my eyes instinctively wanted to close because of the bright light, but I had to endure it. I made it through the curve and straightened my Duel Runner as I silently released a sigh of relief.
Jakob: 4000 LP = SPC 2
Sherry: 3100 LP – 2800 LP = SPC 6
"I saw you struggling by that curve", Jakob commented. "It would've been nice to see you crash and allow our team to win by default. But then again, the victory wouldn't taste so delicious, so well done staying on your Duel Runner."
"It takes more than a simple Cyber Summon Blaster to bring me down on my knees", I retorted.
"Then I shall continue my turn. I summon Superheavy Samurai Fist in defense mode!"
Superheavy Samurai Fist, Level 2, Tuner: DEF 900
Another Tuner? Was he planning to Synchro summon again? Well, one good thing about this summon was it wasn't a Special summoning, so I didn't receive any effect damage.
"Superheavy Samurai Stealth Ninja's effect! By cutting its defense points in half this turn, it can attack my opponent directly!"
Superheavy Samurai Stealth Ninja, Level 7: DEF 2800 – DEF 1400
It was a good thing I still had more than enough Life Points to survive the direct attack, but not that much.
"But that isn't all! I Tribute your Draco Berserker of the Tenyi to Special summon Jizukiru, the Star Destroying Kaiju to your side of the field in attack mode!"
"What?!" I exclaimed in shock.
Draco's shadow beneath his changed its color from black into blazing fire before a large spear reached out and pierced him. He screeched in pain before he fell into the flames and got dissolved as he was pulled down into the pitfall of doom. The second he was gone, a massive machine Monster flew up and dominated my field. It was even bigger than Draco. If I had to guess, it was a twice as big as Zushin the Sleeping Giant.
Jizukiru, the Star Destroying Kaiju, Level 10: ATK 3300
"Cyber Summon Blaster's effect!"
I braced myself as the blaster fired another white beam at me, my hair flying violently around me as I kept my Duel Runner steady.
Jakob: 4000 LP = SPC 2
Sherry: 2800 LP – 2500 LP = SPC 6
I couldn't help but be stunned by the change of the Turbo Duel. My Signer Dragon had been removed from the field as a Tribute and she couldn't help me bring my team to victory.
"Battle! Superheavy Samurai Stealth Ninja, attack directly!"
Stealth Ninja spun the staff in its hands before it released smoke that quickly faded away to reveal it was gone. I looked around to try finding the machine Monster, but I still got caught off guard when it appeared in front of me.
"I activate my Trap; Floral Shield!" I yelled. "When an opponent's Monster declares an attack, the attacking Monster's attack is negated and I draw one card!"
A whirlwind of white flower petals blew out from the card and created a shield in front of me. Stealth Ninja punched the shield and caused the petals to scatter around him. He got distracted by the petals and had no choice but to fly back while trying to get rid of the remnants of the petals that got stuck on his face.
While the machine Monster retreated, I drew a card from my Deck, which was the Speed Spell – Angel Baton.
"I wish I could eliminate you in this turn, but it will have to wait. Superheavy Samurai Warlord Susanowo, attack Jizukiru!"
Warlord Susanowo drew its sword from the compartment on his frame before flying toward the Kaiju Monster. I decided to take the damage instead of activating Intrigue Shield to save it from destruction. It was clear that if I chose to protect Jizukiru, he would then choose Centaur Mina as target and that would mean game over. I refused to throw in the towel yet. The Superheavy Samurai Monster slashed Jizukiru into pieces and its remnants rained upon me.
Jakob: 4000 LP = SPC 2
Sherry: 2500 LP – 2000 LP = SPC 6
"I'm looking forward to see what kind of defense you will set up on your next turn", Jakob chuckled."Main Phase 2! I tune Level 2 Superheavy Samurai Fist with Level 7 Superheavy Samurai Stealth Ninja! Synchro summon! Appear, Superheavy Samurai Beast Kyubi!"
Superheavy Samurai Beast Kyubi, Level 9: DEF 2500
He had another Synchro Monster?! I hadn't seen this one before, so I didn't recognize it nor had any idea about its effects.
"Superheavy Samurai Beast Kyubi gains 900 defense points for each of my opponents' Special summoned Monster they have on the field. Since you have two Special summoned Monsters, his defense points are increased to 4300!"
Superheavy Samurai Beast Kyubi, Level 9: DEF 2500 – DEF 4300
"And Cyber Summon Blaster is activated again."
The course was straight, so I didn't have to worry about crashing, so I closed my eyes and allowed the laser beam to engulf me for the umpteenth time.
Jakob: 4000 LP = SPC 2
Sherry: 2000 LP – 1700 LP = SPC 6
"I activate my facedown; Call of the Haunted!" Jakob yelled. "I Special summon Jizukiru, the Star Destroying Kaiju from my Graveyard!"
Jizukiru, the Star Destroying Kaiju, Level 10: ATK 3300
"Cyber Summon Blaster activates!"
I gritted my teeth as the energy beam of the blaster struck me once again. That Trap card was so annoying!
Jakob: 4000 LP = SPC 2
Sherry: 1700 LP – 1400 LP = SPC 6
"I end my turn. I warn you; I shall win next turn, so try doing your best in your final turn of the World Racing Grand Prix", Jakob taunted me.
"I refuse…", I growled as I placed my fingers on top of my Deck. "I refuse…to give up! I will fight until my body can no longer move! DRAW!"
Jakob: 4000 LP = SPC 2 – SPC 3
Sherry: 1400 LP = SPC 6 – SPC 7
The card I had just drawn was Noble Knight's Shield-Bearer. At this point, I had to admit I was bricking, so I needed to improvise.
"I summon Noble Knight's Shield-Bearer in defense mode!" I called.
Noble Knight's Shield-Bearer, Level 4: DEF 1300
"Noble Knight's Shield-Bearer's effect! I banish my LIGHT Monster, Noble Knight Joan, to draw one card from my Deck!"
I braced myself before I drew the top card. I checked it and saw it was one of the new Monster cards I received by the Crimson Dragon; Necro Fleur.
"I activate Speed World 2's effect!" I called as I revealed my only Speed Spell in hand. "I remove 4 Speed Counters to inflict 800 points of damage for each Speed Spell in my hand!"
A thundercloud appeared above Jakob that crackled by the static electricity. Seconds later, a lightning bolt struck him. Jakob grunted slightly in the intercom as his Life Points took a small hit.
Jakob: 4000 LP – 3200 LP = SPC 3
Sherry: 1400 LP = SPC 7 – SPC 3
"That was Jakob's first damage to his Life Points!" the MC spoke up. "It was a major hit, so maybe it was just a prelude of a counterattack from Sherry."
"Next, I play the Speed Spell – Angel Baton! I can play it while I have 2 or more Speed Counters. I can draw two cards from my hand and send one from my hand to the Graveyard!"
I drew the top two cards and got Speed Spell – Defense Buster and Liberty at Last!. Both cards were really good, so I kept them and sent Guardian Angel Joan to the Graveyard.
"I play the Speed Spell – Defense Buster!" I called. "I can play it while I have 2 or more Speed Counters! I choose one Monster on field that's in defense mode and change it to attack mode! I choose Superheavy Samurai Beast Kyubi!"
Jakob said nothing in comment as Beast Kyubi was forced to change to attack mode.
Superheavy Samurai Beast Kyubi, Level 9: DEF 4300 – ATK 1900
"Next, I activate Centaur Mina's effect! I Special summon Fleur Synchron from the Graveyard in defense mode!"
Fleur Synchron, Level 2, Tuner: DEF 200
"Cyber Summon Blaster activates and Beast Kyubi's defense points are also increased!" Jakob shouted.
I made sure to steer my Duel Runner in a straight line as the heat of the blaster's beam engulfed me and inflicted another amount of damage to my Life Points.
Jakob: 3200 LP = SPC 3
Sherry: 1400 LP – 1100 LP = SPC 3
"I tune Level 2 Fleur Synchron with Level 6 Centaur Mina! Body born from speed, the time for revolution has come! Bring victory into my hands! Synchro summon! Shine, Chevalier de Fleur!"
Chevalier de Fleur, Level 8: ATK 2700
"When Centaur Mina is sent to the Graveyard as Synchro Material for a WIND warrior Monster, I can destroy one face-up Monster on the field! I destroy Superheavy Samurai Warlord Susanowo!"
Chevalier de Fleur aimed the rapier at the chosen Monster and fired a lightning bolt. The lightning struck Susanowo and forced it to explode into pieces.
"When Fleur Synchron is sent to the Graveyard as Synchro Material, I can Special summon one Level 2 or lower Monster from my hand. I Special summon Necro Fleur in defense mode!"
Necro Fleur, Level 1: DEF 0
"Beast Kyubi's defense points are increased once again", Jakob muttered irritably.
"Battle! Chevalier de Fleur, attack Superheavy Samurai Beast Kyubi!" I commanded.
Chevalier de Fleur raised her rapier before she flew toward the Superheavy Samurai Monster. Beast Kyubi raised its staff and used it to block her. The two Monsters struggled against each other before Chevalier de Fleur kicked Beast Kyubi on the chest and did a somersault backward. She landed in a crouch before she flew toward his enemy and pierced the rapier through Beast Kyubi's chest. He took a big gasp of air before he shattered into pieces.
Jakob: 3200 LP – 2400 LP = SPC 3
Sherry: 1100 LP = SPC 3
"I switch Legendary Six Samurai – Shi En to defense mode and place one card facedown before I end my turn!"
Legendary Six Samurai – Shi En, Level 5: ATK 2500 – DEF 1400
This was all I could do. Everything was now up to Jakob if he was going to try attacking my Monsters or use his Trap card to defeat me by effect damage.
"You cannot avoid the inevitable anymore, Signer. Victory is within my grasp", Jakob commented. "My turn!"
Jakob: 2400 LP = SPC 3 – SPC 4
Sherry: 1100 LP = SPC 3 – SPC 4
"Yes… This Turbo Duel is over! I summon Superheavy Samurai Scales in defense mode!"
Superheavy Samurai Scales, Level 4: DEF 1800
"Superheavy Samurai Scales' effect! When this card is Normal or Special summoned, I can target one Level 4 or lower Superheavy Samurai Monster in my Graveyard and Special summon it in defense mode! I Special summon Superheavy Samurai Trumpeter!"
Superheavy Samurai Trumpeter, Level 2, Tuner: DEF 600
"Cyber Summon Blaster activates!"
I gritted my teeth as I sensed the frustration grow within me. Something told me Jakob was going to finish the Turbo Duel soon. I didn't even blink when the energy from the blaster engulfed me and caused my hair to fly around me.
Jakob: 2400 LP = SPC 4
Sherry: 1100 LP – 800 LP = SPC 4
"Sherry is now out of the safety zone!" the MC commented. "This could be the beginning of the end, people! Unless she has a plan to counteract Jakob!"
"I tune Level 2 Superheavy Samurai Trumpeter with Level 4 Superheavy Samurai Scales!" Jakob called."Synchro summon! Appear, Superheavy Samurai Ogre Shutendoji!"
Superheavy Samurai Ogre Shutendoji, Level 6: DEF 2500
"Cyber Summon Blaster activates!"
The frustration within me grew bigger as my Life Points were reduced once again by Jakob's Trap card. At this point, my body was almost numb whenever the heat of the energy beam engulfed me.
Jakob: 2400 LP = SPC 4
Sherry: 800 LP – 500 LP = SPC 4
"Superheavy Samurai Ogre Shutendoji's effect! When it's Synchro summoned and I have no Spell or Trap cards in my Graveyard, I can destroy all Spell and Trap cards my opponent controls!"
"What?!" I exclaimed in disbelief.
Ogre Shutendoji swung its needle club around with a screech before it flew toward my facedown Trap card. The Monster slammed the club down onto the card and forced it to shatter into pieces.
I resisted the temptation to slam my fist on the dashboard. My only defense against an incoming attack was gone! However, that didn't anger me the most. I had a strong feeling that Jakob was going to defeat me with effect damage and not by attempting to attack me. What a coward move!
"I activate Superheavy Samurai Fist's effect in my Graveyard! Since I have no Spell or Trap cards in my Graveyard, I can target one Superheavy Samurai Synchro Monster I control and reduce its Level by 1 and then Special summon Superheavy Samurai Fist from the Graveyard! I reduce Superheavy Samurai Ogre Shutendoji's Level!"
Superheavy Samurai Ogre Shutendoji, Level 6 – Level 5: DEF 2500
Superheavy Samurai Fist, Level 2, Tuner: DEF 900
"Due to its summoning, I cannot Special summon Monsters for the rest of this turn, except Superheavy Samurai Monsters. And since it was the Special summoning of another machine-type Monster, Cyber Summon Blaster's effect activates!"
I was silent as the Trap card fired another energy beam at me, reducing my Life Points so I was barely holding on.
Jakob: 2400 LP = SPC 4
Sherry: 500 LP – 200 LP = SPC 4
"Battle!" Jakob declared. "Superheavy Samurai Ogre Shutendoji, attack Necro Fleur!"
Ogre Shutendoji pounded its chest with its free fist like a gorilla before floating toward the withering flower. It swung its club at Necro Fleur and flattened it into a thin pancake before my Monster got destroyed.
"Superheavy Samurai Fist's effect! During my Battle Phase, if my Superheavy Samurai Monster destroyed an opponent's Monster by battle, I can immediately Synchro summon one Synchro Monster using materials I control, including Superheavy Samurai Fist! I tune Level 2 Superheavy Samurai Fist with Level 5 Superheavy Samurai Ogre Shutendoji! Synchro summon! Appear, Superheavy Samurai Stealth Ninja!"
Superheavy Samurai Stealth Ninja, Level 7: DEF 2800
My eyes widened in shock. He had another copy of that Synchro Monster?!
"I told you this was going to be your end! No one can defeat Team New World! We are going to become the first champions of the World Racing Grand Prix! Cyber Summon Blaster activates! Taste the humiliating defeat, Sherry LeBlanc!"
I said nothing as the heat from the laser engulfed me for the last time of this Turbo Duel. My hair flew around me as the light of the white laser faded away before the display on my Duel Runner informed me the Turbo Duel was over.
Jakob: 2400 LP = SPC 4
Sherry: 200 LP – 0 LP = SPC 4
"What a Duel! Instead of ending it in a battle, Jakob ensured a victory with the collaboration of his two teammates!" the MC called as I exited the Duel lane. "This means the team from Block A that will Turbo Duel in the final is Team New World!"
I was doing my best to bottle up my emotions, but it was difficult. My hands were shaking in anger as I drove to the stadium and into the pit where my teammates were waiting. I parked my Duel Runner next to them, but I didn't look at them. My eyes were just staring at the dashboard of my Runner.
"Sherry?" Tanaka spoke up in a concerned voice. "Are you okay?"
That question came at the wrong time. I couldn't hold it back anymore and punched the dashboard in frustration, causing Tanaka to yelp in surprise.
I failed to destroy Iliaster, my longtime enemy, and avenge my parents. The worst part was the humiliation I felt by this defeat. Jakob used this cheap trick to inflict effect damage to claim victory instead of defeating me in battle.
I snapped out of my anger trance when Aki placed her warm hand on top of mine that was gripping the handle. I blinked my eyes until my mind was no longer foggy. I looked up and saw Aki's concerned expression. Her face soon shifted into a small forced smile. "You did your best, Sherry", she said. "We simply underestimated Team New World."
She was right. Despite all the research I had done on Iliaster's team, I had found very little data about their Decks and cards, so they had truly caught us off guard.
I exhaled a sigh before I removed my helmet while the cheers from the audience echoed in the stadium as Jakob drove into his team's pit. The Three Emperors soon walked out to the main lane and waved to their admirers, which increased the volume of their shrieks.
I had to admit defeat…for now. The battle wasn't over just yet. Everything was up to Jack, Crow, and Yusei. They had to win the semifinal so they could advance to the final Turbo Duel of the World Racing Grand Prix and defeat Iliaster before it was too late.
Team 5D's… Do not disappoint me!