Princess Evelyn - Kings Rock, Elleria
October 18 - Year 18 4AOS
"Isn't she a dream?" said the raven-haired, Queen Sera Alteria.
She was sitting lazily on a decorated sofa, watching the fitting of her daughter's school uniform. She noisily sipped her wine showing off the massive diamond on her golden ring to the servants and guests who were attending brunch with the queen. They all sat around white-clothed tables around the hassock where Princess Evelyn Alteria stood.
Her bright blue eyes darted around the room at the guests; all were women; the most elite in all the land. Duchesses, noblewomen, anyone with the chips and title to be Sera's friend were all in the room helping themselves to a meal of tea, sweetly decorated cakes, and steamy buttery scones. The windows nicely covered with long crimson drapery and a few rays of the setting sun peered through to shine only on the princess. Evelyn wore a black blazer with gold buttons over a white shirt with a red tie, and a plaid skirt with leg-long, black, laced leather boots that had seven-inch heels.
The patch over her right breast showed the escutcheon of Broxiton University, also named The School of Kings for only those with noble title and wealth could enter its vast and majestic halls.
The Obelisk Blue Dorm. She worked tirelessly to maintain her rank throughout her years in school. Obelisk Blue is the top dorm of the school, a dorm where people spent thousands of pounds of gold to get their kids in. Many of Evelyn's summers and holidays were spent studying politics, mathematics, mannerisms, and Duel Monsters.
As a child, Evelyn would sit in her room, quill in hand; her desk covered with summer homework, gilded scales, and abacuses mixed with a mess of Duel Monsters cards. Her stained-glass windows were open to let in the cool grace of a summer breeze, but her ears rang with the blissful cries and laughter of the city's children playing games and making mischief out on the red cobbled streets of King's Rock. She could hear their happy cries ringing over the waves crashing on the cliffs. Evelyn would ask her mother for a break so she could go out and play, but Sera would refuse her daughter and send her back to her room to study.
She would sadly look outside and saw boys on the ramparts of the wall having a game of Duel Monsters. Their beasts were looking fierce and beautiful by the afternoon glow of the Bay of Lendos below. They played for the thrill of the game, but Evelyn was raised to play the game far more seriously. Her father once said that Duel Monsters was once a game played only by kings and the wealthy and powerful.
But since the foundation of the city-state of Domino, the game became heavily marketed towards younger players, and over the years the monsters grew more child-friendly. Decades past. Soon anyone from bakers to the lowly piss-boy could buy a pack of Duel Monster cards and play.
This game has lost its honor! Her father ranted one night at the dinner table. We once had monsters such as the noble Celtic Guardian and the frightening Summoned Skull. Now we have this! He held up cards that showed cartoon monsters such as Truckroid, Cycroid, and Maldoche Chickolates. The monsters grow childish and stupid. A mockery is what it is. And he tore them up furiously.
"Hold out your arms dear," said Evelyn's lady-in-waiting.
Josephine Hart had cared for Evelyn since the day she was born. It was she who taught the princess the basics of Duel Monsters. She taught her how to sit properly, eat properly, and speak properly. Evelyn knew not to test her patience. Josephine had a firm and swift hand that easily whipped Evelyn back into shape should she choose to be defiant.
Evelyn watched as Josephine approached, holding carefully with both hands a blue velvet pillow where a gleaming white bracelet rested.
Another expensive birthday gift, Evelyn thought. Mother could have fed an entire village with the chips spent on whatever that is.
It was enameled with gold that stretched over the pearly-white surface like vines. The leaves held tiny raindrop-sized crystals that twinkled like the morning dew.
"Arm dear," Josephine said again. Evelyn did as she was told and elegantly held out her right arm. Josephine undid the gold cufflinks, then raised up the sleeves of Evelyn's shirt to just above her forearm and placed the bracelet on her wrist.
"Ah, a perfect fit," said Sera.
Her guests clapped with delight.
"Well, activate it!" Josephine said, urgently.
The princess gave a timid nod, and she held up her arm to which the bracelet began to glow and morphed into a gleaming white Duel Disk; a magical device used to render monsters from their cards in a phantom form making them appear as though they were battling on the field for real. Her Duel Disk was shaped like the wing of a butterfly. Two glowing crystals spun over the contraption and each time they hit the sun they cast rainbow hues around Evelyn making her look like she was an Arva from the ages of old.
"Well, go on, summon something!" snapped her mother.
Evelyn took a card out of her deck and placed it on the surface. Outside the window a monster called Fairy's Gift appeared, flapping its wings in rapid motion. The women stood up from their seats and clapped. Josephine made a swinging motion with her hand and lowered her head, signaling Evelyn to perform curtsy. Evelyn bent her knees, hunched down, and gingerly held out the hems of her skirt while giving a grand smile.
"Beautiful," jeered Sera. "Simply beautiful. Crafted by the finest mages this side of the Emerald Mountains with gems from the dwarves of Greenton; and the most elegant gold from the lands of his Grace, Lord Peter Albrecht. Is it not befitting for the soon-to-be Queen of Rassay?"
Sera announced the words with such certainty. Evelyn did all she could to keep the smile on her face. With all the excitement, she forgot it was her duty to seek Daveed Wollcroft, the future High King of Termnnia, and impress him so he could take her hand in marriage.
It was a deadly burden, and it weighed her down more than the elegant Duel Disk on her arm. That was the reason why her mother and father went to great lengths to customize her uniform, to make her look beautiful, and even a tad racy. Her top was exquisite, but it showed off her shoulders, and her skirt was cut a little bit shorter to show off her legs to the prince when she met him
"If we are quite finished, mother," Evelyn said, summoning back her monster. "I must make my leave."
"To where?" Sera asked gulping down wine from her gem-encrusted goblet.
"Mother, have you forgotten? My friends have traveled from afar for my birthday next month. They're going to help us with the preparations. Afterward, we're going to aid my charity in helping the poor and downtrodden of Arborleen. The town is the hardest hit of the war with King Forrest. I am using the money I raised with the tourney to open a shelter for the orphans. The summers are quite hot here in Elleria, and the children will surely die from the heat if nothing is done to help them. Princess Rhodes will be joining me; she has brought food and water and Star Chips for the needy."
"You girls and your silly charities," Sera said with a roll of her eyes. She brushed her raven black hair over her shoulder and chugged down more wine. "Very well. You may go then."
"Thank you, Mother," Evelyn said with a bow. "Ladies," she said with another bow.
"Well wishes on your betrothal, princess," said the Baroness of Crestwood.
Evelyn bowed to more well-wishes and left the room.
"My lady must be happy with the news today," Josephine said, waddling after Evelyn who was doing all she could to gain distance from her mother.
"Why do you say that?" Evelyn asked.
Josephine laughed with excitement. "Prince Daveed blooms into his eighteenth year in a few days. He will return soon. You must make your preparations for the wedding."
"Josephine not you too," Evelyn groaned, following the indoor rivers on both sides of the hallway paths to the east wing. A squadron of Ebony Knights saw her and stood at attention as she passed.
"As you were," groaned Evelyn, gloomily walking past them.
Josephine stopped for a second to catch her breath and continued trailing Evelyn. "My Lady, I know this seems a little overzealous, but you must marry the boy. Not for yourself. But for your kingdom."
Evelyn stopped and made an about-face to look Josephine in the eye. "And will marrying some boy save my home from utter destruction?" she retorted.
"He is not some boy, princess," said Josephine. "He is the High-King. The Summoner of the Divine Beasts. Your betrothed has monsters that can wipe out a country. Surely that will stop the Naralian invaders."
"I don't have that much time," Evelyn said, turning around and continuing her walk back to her chambers. "Talion wrote to me a few days ago saying he lost many battles against Naralia. It looks grim. I don't have the time to wait for Daveed and say: 'Hello, I'm a beautiful princess from a country in distress. My parents want you to use your monsters to fend off my enemies will you marry me'? It doesn't work that way, Josephine. And it's completely unfair. Both to me and Daveed. You heard about how he's lived his whole life. He's been locked in a fortress for his own safety. Poor thing. The last thing he needs is to get pressured into marriage."
"But you must, dear. You're not the only daughter of nobility who's been obligated to marry the future High King."
"Exactly. He's going to have enough stress as it is with all those other daughters of nobility going after him. I won't be one of them. And my brother has already pledged an oath to join him in the alliance Master Yu-Gi-Oh plans to construct. He'll already be a great ally to my country so why does he need to be my husband?"
"You will go against the wishes of your parents?" Josephine said, getting rather stern. "Stop, young lady!"
Evelyn froze. She turned to face her lady-in-waiting after a stealthy scoff and folded her arms.
"You will do as you are told!" said Josephine. "You are a princess. You have as much of a responsibility to your nation and your people as your mother, father, and brother. You have done well with your charities and fundraisers for the war-struck in the cities near the border, but I fear that sadly it is not enough to ward off the oncoming charge of the Bear of the North. Now, you will do as you are told and heed your parent's wishes. And your House must atone for losing the golden eggs in the Battle of Red Ridge!"
"It was no battle," said Evelyn. "It was a massacre."
"Regardless, your House was chosen to aid Lord Pegasus in securing them to High King Antar. And we failed. You must marry Yuri to atone for that."
"I will not," seethed Evelyn. "To the shadows with all of them. And to you as well!"
She stormed down the hall leaving Josephine dumbstruck and paralyzed in the hallway. When she finally reached her chambers, she dressed out of her school uniform and put on her Dueling Raiment to practice in the gardens in the back as she awaited her friends. It was an outfit with tight black breeches, and a laced white shirt. There was a knock on her door.
"Uh, enter!" Evelyn said, yanking up her breeches.
Ser Kevin opened the door and kneeled. "Princess. Your friend is here. She awaits you at the ramparts."
Evelyn smiled and fixed her hair. "Well, it's about time. Thank you, Ser Kevin. You are dismissed."
"My Lady," said the Knight. He rose back up and slammed his fist on his chestplate. He bowed and made a quick turn, leaving her alone.
Evelyn made a few more adjustments to her Dueling Raiment then proceeded to a tent up in the ramparts of the city walls to meet with her long-awaited guest. An Eldori girl stood behind a table eating candied fruits. The girl was tall and blonde with a tiara made of platinum and sapphires glittering on her head. She wore white arm-length gloves and a gleaming white gown with tiny diamonds sewn onto it in the shape of waves and water flowers. A pendant of aquamarines glimmered around her neck as did the earrings shaped like drops of water.
"Alexis!" Evelyn cried out.
She ran and embraced her friend. Alexis Rhodes. The princess of Lorin; a majestic kingdom down South. The city was unique in that it was built like a colossal water fountain with the castle on the top level, and it was quickly adapting to the technology from the city-state of Domino. Alexis had a device in her hand that was alien in Evelyn's eyes. Even after all these years as friends, she had never known such a thing existed.
"It's called a cellular phone," explained Alexis. "With a push of a button on the touch-screen, I can keep in contact with all my friends. It has a reliable tool called texting."
"Texting?" Evelyn asked, looking at Alexis swipe her finger across the screen activating all sorts of applications. She was so confused, yet intrigued.
"Uh-huh," said Alexis. "It's so much faster than sending letters." Alexis suddenly beamed, looking up at her friend. "Which totally reminds me. I even bought you one, birthday girl."
Alexis turned towards the table and picked up a white box with a fancy golden laced ribbon.
"Oh no, I couldn't," stammered Evelyn. "My family looks down upon the technology of Domino. And even if I did keep it, I wouldn't know how to use it."
"You've seen us use them before, girl. I thought you loved Domino City."
"The city is beautiful, but your technology is quite alien to me. Especially with these gadgets."
"It's easy," said Alexis. "Come on, I'll teach you."
The two princesses then walked around the gardens. Evelyn's fear of the cell phone quickly washed away and became a fascination. Her favorite feature was the texting application. Alexis showed her how by sending her a message. She dashed to the other side of the park and sent her a quick hello. Evelyn was astonished by how quickly she got it. By traditional mail, it would have taken days or even weeks to get a message. But Evelyn got hers in mere seconds.
"Incredible," said Evelyn.
"Have I changed your mind?" Alexis asked, putting an arm around her friend's neck.
"Oh, yes. I think it's wonderful." Evelyn said, putting the device in the pocket inside her sleeve.
"So, has Kevin been accepted into the Obelisk dorm as well?" Alexis asked as they strolled down a red brick path through the trees and gardens of flowers, adding shades of yellow, red and pink to the vast canvas of green. Ebony Knights trailed behind them holding up their black halberds bearing the black and red flag of Elleria.
"Not yet," Evelyn replied. "He's still trying, though."
"He's going to have to work even harder," chuckled Alexis. "I remember trying out for the Obelisk Blue dorm too. I had to attend that prep school in Monde to do so, but I tell you it was worth it. And maintaining that rank is much more fun. Now that we're university students, we're going to get much grander benefits and privileges. Oh, and what news of your brother?"
"Poor Talion," Evelyn said, looking up at the sky. "Another victim of our crumbling world."
"So, it's up to Termnnia's youth to change things," Alexis proclaimed. "Our elders have failed to restore order in Termnnia after Anubis' downfall. But let's face it. That was never their agenda. All anyone has done since the defeat of the Dark Lord was quarrel for a bigger slice of pie on the map. Thank the Mothers that Master Yugi is forming that alliance with the princes of Termnnia and Daveed our future High King. When you think about it, we're also part of that plan. So really, it's up to us kids to save Termnnia."
"Daveed," said Evelyn, changing the subject, for she wished to discuss her current conundrum with Alexis. "Or do they call him Yuri now. What do you prefer?"
Alexis smiled and looked at the sky, pondering the question. "Well, I kind of like Yuri. It's a cute name. And it matches with his master, Yugi, who will be teaching him at the university. I can't believe that's coming so quickly. In a matter of weeks, he will come to reach his eighteenth year and return to us. He'll have many burdens when he comes back."
Evelyn stared at her gleaming white bracelet. "First, he trains with the Aurelian Legion, then he must learn the art of Duel Monsters at Broxiton. Afterward, he has to rule the Kingdoms of Termnnia."
"Let us not forget he must cross the Sea of Glass and climb the Pillar of Termnnia to reclaim the Children of Horakhty," added Alexis. "It's a perilous journey. Many who attempted to claim the God Cards failed miserably. He's going to have so much on his plate the moment he gets back."
"Yes," said Evelyn. "Poor thing."
"And what of you, old friend?" Alexis said stopping on a bridge over the garden stream. She turned to look at her friend and placed her glove-covered hands on Evelyn's hands. The knights ceased their march with a loud halt. "How have you been with all this nonsense with King Forrest?"
"It... it's been difficult," Evelyn replied.
"Any word on Talion?" she asked.
"Yes," Evelyn replied sadly. She opened one of the pouches on her belt and handed her a letter from Talion.
"What does this mean?" Alexis asked when she finished reading the letter.
"He's staying longer," Evelyn said, biting her lip. "He's not going to make it to my birthday."
"I'm so sorry," Alexis said sadly.
"My life couldn't possibly get any worse," she stuttered. "My brother risks his life in a pointless war, and my family asks the impossible."
"What do they want?" asked Alexis.
"They expect me to marry Prince Daveed."
Alexis's eyes bulged. She gasped and covered her mouth politely with her hand. "They can't be serious!" she stammered.
"I'm afraid they are," Evelyn replied. "I'm more afraid of what they'll do to me should I not fulfill their wishes."
"It is a daunting task to undertake," said Alexis. "They should at least give him some time."
"My parents won't see reason, my friend," Evelyn said looking at Alexis' eyes, getting wet with sorrow. The wind blew her curled bangs over her forehead. "Our country is in turmoil. We're on the verge of economic collapse, King Forrest is but another few battles away from conquering my home, and our army is too broken and weak to fight back. What's worse is my father is in debt to the Termnnian Bank."
"The Termnnian Bank!" Alexis said aloud in shock. She leaned against the iron guard of the bridge. "Your father took a loan from the Termnnian Bank?"
"He owes The Big Five twelve million gold Star Chips."
"Oh, by the Stars of Entuli," Alexis cursed, using the name of the light goddess in vain. She sighed, burying her face in her hands. "Things in Elleria must be dire if its king is asking for loans from the Termnnian Bank, and one so huge. Helmsley should know better than to seek aid from The Big Five. They're snakes, crooks, and murderers. Why didn't you come to me for help? We can send you the finest navy in Termnnia to guard the Bay of Lendos."
Evelyn gasped. "And have you at war with Forrest too? No, this is our conflict."
"It will be mine as well if Forrest conquers Elleria," said Alexis. "This land is a one-way ticket to my mother's kingdom. To say nothing of how much their power will grow if Forrest and the Church get their greedy hands on our technology. Ships or no ships Lorin must deal with him sooner or later."
"Hopefully, my mother and father's plan will come to motion, and we can avoid a long and costly war," said Evelyn.
"You actually want to go through with this?" said Alexis. "Why not just befriend Daveed and then ask to see if he can help?"
"I told them that," said Evelyn. "But they want more. With Elleria having close ties to Emboldor they'll have their grip on the Grand Vaults and their rolling hills of Star Chips."
"Is that what this is all about?" Alexis asked. "They want a little spending money?"
"And Daveed's seed in me," Evelyn replied coldly.
"Ew," Alexis shuddered. "Don't worry, Evelyn. We'll think of something."
"I hope so," Evelyn said, feeling pools of tears welling up in the corner of her eyes.
Alexis used her thumbs to wipe her friend's tears away. "It's okay," she whispered. Alexis then spotted a group of youngsters approaching them. She smiled and gave a wave. Evelyn turned, and she felt a surge of relief go through her frame when she spotted her friends from her days at Cloxonia, Academy of Witchcraft.
Four youths in their late teens, all human, happily made their way into the tunnel and greeted the two princesses.
The first to kiss Evelyn's hand was Antoine Veradius, of the Redborne; a dark-skinned race of people from Akuuda; a continent across the sea. His hair was short-cropped, and he smelled of very sweet perfume. His eyes were like molten gold, as are all the eyes of the Redborne people, and he wore a long leather trench coat. His left arm was shielded into a long metal gauntlet that morphed into his Duel Disk.
Then, there was a young girl, Ezra Bryce. She was a mage on holiday from The Citadel, a home away from home for youths gifted with the power of magic. She was a fair-faced young woman with red hair tied in a long braided ponytail. She was clad in a black leather corset decorated with bright gold filigree. The runes on her skin were of arcane designs; planted on her when she became a master of magic. Her leather gloves had gold plates with the symbol of Spellcaster monsters forged onto the surface. She clung to a long metal staff with a bright glowing crystal spinning on the top.
The third youth was a dark-haired young man named Ethan Morris, the son of a duke from the kingdom of Riverturn in Emboldor. He walked with confidence and a bright smile on his face, wearing stylish black clothing and a black Duel Disk. He wished to travel to the University to learn alchemy as well as be a skilled duelist, and meet the beautiful University girls he heard so much about.
And finally, Dancer Firewing. The handsome youth from the battle of the Emerald Marches. Evelyn felt herself getting weak in the knees seeing the Knight of Wine and Song approach her. His smile seemed to make her day light up.
"I thought I saw the two of you walking about," said Antoine. "Ser Kevin," he said greeting Evelyn's champion, who was standing behind Alexis and Evelyn. The knight nodded his head and smiled.
"How've you been?" asked Ezra, resting her cheek on her staff. "It's been a while."
"Yeah, we thought you forgot about us," said Ethan.
Dancer chuckled softly. The sound was soothing and revealed his teeth as white as the snows of the ice-capped mountains looming above the city. Evelyn felt herself melting inside.
"You guys make it sound like we haven't seen each other in ages," he said. "It's only been two seasons." He slowly and proudly marched to Evelyn. He took her hand and raised it to his lips. "Princess," he said before kissing it.
"No, I'd never forget any of you," said Evelyn. "I'm so glad you all could make it."
"I regret Talion could not join us," Dancer wistfully said. "I pray, too, that he is safe." He looked at Ser Kevin, who looked like he was about to weep before them. "Ladies, if you don't mind, I wish to have a word with Ser Kevin. Antoine if you could join me, please."
Antoine nodded. "Yeah, I see there is much we must discuss."
"I shall remain with the girls then," said Ethan.
"You most certainly will not," said Alexis. "We're about to change into our Dueling uniforms and there are no dressing rooms here in the gardens."
"Come little one," said Dancer. "Let us leave the girls in peace. Maybe you can help me prepare for my match in the games later today."
"Very well," said Ethan. "Ladies, Princess; I will see you in the arena at sundown."
"Knights, you are dismissed!" commanded Evelyn.
The knights slammed the bottom of the halberds down in compliance and marched away to let the ladies have their privacy as they slipped into their dueling raiment to play a few matches.
When they were done changing they decided who would go first. Ezra grunted with displeasure as she tried to pull up her trousers. "These breeches!" She grunted. "They're always so tight on my butt!"
"Well, it's not the fault of the raiment," giggled Alexis. "You're giving them too much to work with."
"Why do we need to dress into these anyway?"
"Because Duels are violent and we don't want to get our dresses dirty," said Alexis. "A lot of handsome knights from Rimgarden, Emboldor, and Monde are on the way to fight for Evelyn in the games. I want to look my best."
Evelyn found that notion humorous. "Hah!" she said. "And since when does Alexis Rhodes the legendary Glaive of Entuli care about men all of a sudden?"
"You let me worry about that," said Alexis. "Anyways, I'd like to see those Buster Bladers that Master Yu-Gi-Oh gave to you, Evelyn. So why don't you play first Ezra?"
"Okay, if you insist." Ezra walked to her side of the field, pulling at the back of her breeches.
Evelyn took her place as well and morphed her bracelet into a Duel Disk. "As Master Yu-Gi-Oh would say: It's time to Duel!"
LP-8000
"I'll start first," said Evelyn. "I use Foolish Burial to discard my Buster Blader the Destruction Swordsman to the Graveyard. Then I place two cards face down and end my turn."
"It's been a while," Ezra said. "Let's see if I still got it. I Pendulum Summon the Magical Abductor!" (ATK/1700 DEF/400 LV 4)
"Pendulum Summon?" Evelyn said in amazement. "Interesting, I thought those rules stayed in Domino City."
Ezra smiled and began to explain. "Since Pendulum Monsters are a mix of Spell and Monsters, my order has taken an interest to them. Now, to continue my turn, I use the Spell Card, Spellbook of Secrets! This will let me add a Spellbook card from my deck to my hand. And I'll bring it to the field immediately. Say hello to the Spellbook Magician of Prophesy!" (ATK/500 DEF/400 LV 2)
Once the mage came onto the field. He began to glow, for his effect activated, allowing Ezra to bring another Spellbook card to her hand.
"And now I activate the Spell Card, Spellbook of Masters. I reveal a Spellbook card in my hand. The Grand Spellbook Tower. Thus my Spellbook of Masters gains the effect of my Spellbook of Secrets and I add another Spellbook to my hand. Now for my Magical Abductor. When I activate a Spell and its effect resolves, she gains a Spell Counter. But I'll get to her later.'
"What's all this about?" Evelyn asked. "Spells, spells, and more spells."
"I am a mage after all," said Ezra. "So it's only natural I play with cards that fit my lifestyle." Both continued to play fiercely. As their best monsters and spells came onto the field, the friendly smiles they wore on their faces turned into competitive looks of determination. "Now I will Xyz Summon, Empress of Prophesy!" Ezra shouted.
It gained 300 for each Xyz material she had on her monsters. It was just her and with the two cards stacked at the bottom of the Empress of Prophesy, she gained 600 attack points bringing her to 2600 ATK. But it was lowered to 2300 when Ezra activated her monster's ability. She removed a material monster from her Empress to excavate the top five cards on her deck, and for each Spellbook card she found, it meant one less monster for Evelyn. Fortunately, Ezra only drew one card, so Evelyn lost her Buster Blader.
"Attack!" Ezra commanded her Empress.
The Empress of Prophesy stood up from her throne, gave her staff a twirl, and struck Evelyn with a powerful spell that sent her flying backward. Evelyn dug her heels to the ground and skidded to a stop. To retaliate, she summoned Buster Whelp of the Destruction Swordsman. Used its effect and summoned a Buster Blader from her hand."
"Oh shoot, he's back!" Ezra cried.
"He won't be staying for long," Evelyn said.
She equipped her Buster Blader with a monster called Dragon Buster Destruction Sword. The little furry dragon-like cat hopped onto the swordsman's massive shoulder. The creature was a Tuner monster, meaning Evelyn could perform a Synchro Summon. The little whelp became a colossal dragon with six arms and massive wings armored with natural plating colored black. At the bottom of the armor plating were rows of gleaming feathers.
Buster Dragon
ATK/1200 DEF/2800
LV 8
"Uncle! Uncle!" Ezra shouted for mercy.
Evelyn let out a hearty laugh as she activated her Buster Dragon's effect and summoned her Buster Blader back from the Graveyard. She played Destruction Swordsman Fusion which merged her Buster Blader on the field and a Buster Whelp in her hand into her ultimate monster. "Come forth and unleash your fury, O' mightiest of Dragon Slayers! Buster Blader, the Dragon Destroyer Swordsman!"
A sword fell from the sky and landed at Evelyn's feet. Then, a swordsman in armor colored white, indigo, and gold flew down from the back of a Buster Dragon and landed with a powerful crash on the dueling field, causing a large crater to form at his feet. He raised himself, looked down at Evelyn, and nodded his head. Buster Blader the Dragon Destroyer Swordsman picked up his sword and then struck the Empress of Prophesy taking Ezra down to 0.
Ezra flipped through the air from the impact and landed on her stomach.
"Hey now!" said Alexis. "That was awesome. You still up for a game, Ezra?"
"Sure," Ezra said, brushing the dirt off her butt. "Why don't we make this a three-way match."
Evelyn nodded. "I like the sound of that, let's play."
They formed a circle around the water fountain and activated the Duel Disks, ready for an intense game.
"Let's let the birthday girl go first," said Alexis. "So, Evelyn, looking forward to any of the knights coming to the festivities tonight. You are one lucky girl mind you. A week-long celebration for your eighteenth year."
"Well," Evelyn said, drawing her card. "It's worrying me. People out there are starving and here we are having a festival with fifty-seven-course meals, jugglers, and musicians from all around. Not to mention father has set up a tournament with a pool of one million Star Chips." Once her combos were done, she summoned Buster Blader to the field. "RROF!" he growled, swinging his sword to intimidate his opponents. Evelyn beamed at her monster. "As for knights, well, I can't think of any. I end my turn."
"He should know better than that," said Ezra, drawing to start her turn. "That's the Big Five's money he's giving away." She played spell after spell until she had what she needed to summon Master Peace the True Dracoslaying King."
"Wow!" Evelyn said, admiring the brilliant dragon-warrior monster. His overall design was just beautiful to look at. "Evelyn is that your Spellbook/Dracoslayer deck?"
"It sure is," said Ezra. "I've been playing it easy the past few games, and I've been meaning to save this deck for the university. But, you've really fired me up, princess. And just because he's a dragon doesn't mean he's going to be easy pickings for your Buster Bladers."
"Oh, we'll see," said Evelyn. "So, are you done yet? I'm eager to see Alexis' new Cyber Angels."
"Nope," said Ezra. "I still have a few tricks up my sleeve."
Another dizzying combination of her Spellbook cards and soon she had another Master Peace on the field. Even though they gave Evelyn's Buster Blader more strength, she seemed less than worried.
"It's your turn, Princess Alexis," said Ezra. "Speaking of which. Alexis, you finally find something hard to go between those white-bread thighs of yours."
"Draw," said Alexis said with a quick laugh. "No," she answered, examining her hand to figure out what to play. "Who knows. Maybe I'll get lucky tonight."
She played Prepreperation of Rites, allowing her to draw a Ritual Spell from her deck. She used it and summoned Cyber Angel Dakini. She then summoned Manju of the Thousand Hands which brought a ritual to her hand. And she ended her turn, handing the match to Evelyn.
Evelyn drew, and in no time at all had her beloved Buster Blader the Dragon Destruction Swordsman on the field. The Dracoslayers went to defense mode, and Evelyn ordered the attack. Buster Blader the Dragon Destruction Swordsman readied his attack, but Ezra saved herself with a Negate Attack. Evelyn grunted, seeing her beloved Swordsman slam his extravagant sword on a swirling force field. Sparks of electricity surged all around the Buster Blader, knocking him back to Evelyn's field on her side of the fountain.
"I'm so sorry," said Evelyn. "Are you all right?"
Buster Blader nodded. He picked up his sword and stood proudly by her side, eager for her next turn to do battle with Ezra's dragons. It was now her turn. She tributed one of her Master Peace Dracoslayers for a Vanity's fiend. She tried to attack Alexis, but she was well-defended behind her trap cards. Evelyn even came to her rescue with some of her won.
"Two against one!" cried Ezra. "It isn't fair. You two are ganging up on me just because you're princesses!"
"No," said Alexis. "I'm sure you would have done the same for us, too, right."
"Oh don't play dumb with me, Alexis!" said Ezra.
"So come and get me!" Alexis turned and slapped her rump vexingly to get a rise out of Ezra.
"Fuck you, Alexis. I end my turn."
"Now it's my turn," said Alexis. "Draw!"
She ritual summoned again, this time calling forth her newest ace monster. She sang the summon chant and out from heavenly flames emerged Cyber Angel Vrash. With an ATK of 3000, Ezra and Evelyn had a lot to contend with.
They heard someone clapping from the tunnel leading toward the gardens. "Ah, such allurement can only be a gift from Ava!" Dancer said approaching the grounds where Evelyn and her friends played.
"Dancer!" said Ezra. "What are you doing here?"
"I've come to watch the games. You are looking quite ravishing in your Duel Raiment, princess. And those monsters are nothing short of spectacular. My compliments. The three of you make such a beautiful bouquet alongside your monsters. The Cyber Angels. Warriors of untold beauty being summoned by the lovely Alexis of the House Rhodes. Princess of Lorin. Ah, and the legendary dragon hunter himself, Buster Blader, in his ultimate form as the Dragon Destroyer Swordsman. And under the command of the birthday girl, Princess Evelyn. And Ezra, with her majestic Dracoslayers and her Spellbook monsters. I must be blessed to witness such a work of art."
"You're too kind, Dancer," said Alexis.
"Do you really like my Dracoslayer's Dancer?" Ezra asked.
"How could I not?" said Dancer, taking a seat on a white stone bench. He feasted on an apple while he watched the girls pummel each other with their monsters. In the end, Alexis came out on top, attacking Ezra with Cyber Angel Natasha, and Evelyn with Cyber Angel Vrash after she wiped their fields clean. Both girls grunted as they were launched in different directions across the garden. They landed with a heavy thump on the ground. Their Life Point counters dropping to 0.
Dancer clapped. "Bravo!" he said. "That was wonderful."
Alexis bowed. She then wiped sweat off her chest. Evelyn and Ezra got up from the ground and dusted themselves. Their monsters and all the damage they caused in the battle disappeared.
"Well played!" Dancer joyously declared. "The three of you played a spectacular match."
"Are you done with your preparations?" Alexis asked. "You're Dueling a former Emboldorian champion."
Dancer tossed the finished apple core away in a nearby trash can and said: "Yes, and as much as it delights me seeing you beauties duel, I fear I must cut your game short. Queen Sera demands you proceed to the hall for dinner. The nobles and their knights are arriving as we speak. If I may have a word alone with Princess Evelyn."
Alexis grinned. "Very, well," Come, Ezra, let's go wash up."
"You mean bathe together!" Ezra squealed as Alexis grabbed her by the wrist and dragged her away.
"Princess," said Dancer. "Would you care to dance with me?"
"What? Now?"
"If you please. You will be busy on the floor this evening dancing with the other lords of the kingdom. And, I may not get my chance to dance with the birthday girl at the party this weekend."
"Oh, of course," Evelyn said with a bright smile. Dancer held out his hand and she took it. He then led her to the middle of the garden with only limestone statues of warriors and Arva watching them.
Dancer couldn't help but notice how upset she looked. "You look troubled, Your Highness."
"I am," said Evelyn. "My brother will not grace me with his presence tonight. He promised."
"I know he did," Dancer said, giving her a twirl. "But he is a patriot. And he loves his country. He does what he's doing, not for his father or the upcoming alliance, but for you. If the Fat King conquers Elleria I fear what plans he has for you. He has been known to treat beautiful women as mere objects. But I've heard that Talion's absence is not all that bothers you."
Evelyn did what she could to change the subject. "Josephine brought up those golden eggs again. You lost your mother and father in that battle yes?"
"Aye, I did. But that's ancient history, and those eggs were snatched by the Orcs, so I imagine they're long gone. I can't help but have a feeling that golden eggs are not what's bothering you. Tell me the truth."
"My mother and father want me to marry the Prince of Termnnia when he returns."
"Daveed sounds like a nice young man," said Dancer. "I bet when he sees you he will propose on the spot."
"What do you mean?" Evelyn said blushing.
"You have grown to be very beautiful, princess. Your heart is pure and you are very thoughtful and kind. You are also very brave, for any person in a situation like yours would have given up by now. Despite all you go through, you have the will to continue. To keep fighting for what you believe in. One would have to be a complete fool not to fall in love with you, Evelyn."
"I... I appreciate that, Dancer." Evelyn said, full of joy. "But...being his friend is all I care about. My heart...has no place for him I'm afraid."
"And who deserves the honor of having a place in your heart, princess?" Dancer said softly.
Evelyn's heart beat faster than ever. He knew the answer to that question. They had made love before and on this very spot many months ago. Just that thought alone made her feel almost breathless. She recalled putting his manhood in her mouth that night. The places he put his fingers to make her happy. Those memories excited her, as he most likely had planned, playing with her emotions in a place like this. Dancer lowered his head to look at her closely, his eyes shimmered like two chocolate diamonds.
"You're shivering," he said in a whisper. "Do you grow cold?"
Evelyn gasped when she suddenly missed a step and tripped. Dancer caught her at once. "Whoa! You okay?" he asked.
Evelyn nodded and fixed her tiara, which dropped from her head during the fall. She looked back up at him and smiled. Her eyes widened as he lifted her to bring her close. She gasped as Dancer leaned forward to kiss her. She couldn't resist and buried her mouth in his. An icy blast of minty breath from his mouth chilled her tongue and throat. His long, thin bangs tickled her forehead. Not since Talion vanished had the princess felt such bliss. A fiery sensation ran through her veins, hot like sweet wine. Her skin got covered with goose prickles as she felt her the hands of her forbidden love caress her body, searching for a place that was not covered in the engraved silver plates of her Duel Raiment.
Dancer's hands ran into the gold-demasked breeches of her raiment. Evelyn gasped timidly and let out a soft moan feeling his fingers squeeze her tender buttocks, molding them as though they were made clay. The hot, sweaty, flesh burned his hands as he slid them up and down the form of her perfect rump. His fingers snaked around, looking for her forbidden parts. Dancer pushed her closer. His masterwork iron chestplate was crushing her breasts.
Evelyn felt his hardened manhood rub between her legs from inside his black silk trousers. She wanted more of him. She wanted his cock in her mouth now! She released herself from his lips, pushed him against the railing, and knelt down. She started fumbling around his golden belt buckle, panting with passion and frustration, for it seemed wedged tight and proved difficult to dislodge. She wanted him to do her right here in this spot, and she didn't care who was watching.
"Princess!" cried out Josephine.
Evelyn jumped, releasing herself from Dancer's embrace.
Damnation!
"Josephine what are you doing here?" Evelyn cried.
"Lady Josephine," Dancer said, his voice quivering. He quickly took his hands out of Evelyn's pants.
"Everyone is looking for you, princess. Look at you! You haven't even bathed or brushed your hair. If Ser Dancer wasn't here I would put you over my knee and tan your bottom!"
"By all means don't mind me!" Dancer said backing off.
Evelyn glared at him narrowing her eyes in fury.
Josephine angrily stomped her foot on the ground and pointed toward the castle. "Go to your room this instant and prepare yourself for the party."
"Okay, okay," said the princess. "Good luck in your match, Dancer."
Evelyn yanked up her trousers and walked away. Without warning, Josephine slapped her in the butt to quicken her pace. "OW!" yelped Evelyn with a jump.
"Move!" commanded Josephine. "And as for you, Ser Knight. I suggest you keep your distance from the princess. She is betrothed to Daveed Wallcroft the Lord of Termnnia. She is not for you. You'd do well to remember that, lest you want your head mounted on a pike!"