Time for chapter 2, which will be Yuto vs Ruri! Speaking of which, I guess I should say that this chapter contains YutoxRuri...and AllenxSayaka. Just letting people know in case that bothers someone.
But without further ado, I don't own Yu-Gi-Oh! Arc-V. I hope you enjoy!
...
''With that, we'll move on to more advanced mechanics of Rank-Up and lesser known Rank-Down spells and...'' The teacher at the Clover Branch of the Heartland Duel School would have continued on with her lesson...if it wasn't for very noticeable snoring of a certain individual. Everyone turned their heads towards the noise to see a spiky and red-haired boy sitting...well, almost lying on his near window desk with his eyes closed. On the desk next to him sat a girl with light-purple hair and glasses.
''Allen...'' Sayaka sighed and then gulped when she saw that the teacher was walking towards them. She averted her gaze from her friend and just waited for the yelling.
''Allen Kozuki!'' Teacher yelled while slamming her hand onto his desk, which woke the sleeping boy up with a jolt.
''It wasn't me! I didn't do it!'' Allen yelled when he woke up, making Sayaka sigh again while most of his other classmates just laughed. Then he looked around and saw his teacher at his desk with a very agitated look on her face. ''Oh, Mrs. Kitano...'' Allen chuckled nervously, but Kitano's expression didn't change.
''Are those dreams you're having more interesting than my lessons?'' She asked with her arms crossed over her chest, holding a ruler on her right hand.
''Yes they...I mean of course not!'' Allen changed his answer immediately when Kitano's glare got even deadlier. If looks could kill, he would already be in the Graveyard and there would be no Monster Reborn to save him.
''That's good to hear, because you'll be having plenty of lessons in detention.'' Kitano turned back around to face the front of the class. ''Sayaka, catch him up on what we have learned so far...and make sure he doesn't fall asleep again.'' She said as she walked back to the front.
''Yes teacher.'' Sayaka said with a nod and then she looked back at his friend who looked little drowsy. She couldn't help, but smile a little. ''It isn't that bad, I get to be more with him after all.'' Sayaka thought as her cheeks turned a bit red. ''So Allen...'' She was about to tell him what he had missed, but now he was looking out of the window, once again paying no attention to the lesson. ''Allen.'' She tried to get his attention, but also not raise her voice too much...not that she raised her voice much in general. However Allen didn't turn towards her, making her wonder what took his attention so...
''Oh c'mon, that's such a cheap strategy!'' Allen yelled and Sayaka realized what he was watching, a duel. Which would be fine if it wasn't for...
''Allen Kozuki!''
...
''You really should pay more attention in class...'' Sayaka said as she and Allen left the classroom, a bit later than the others as Ms. Kitano still had a few choice words for the boy and Sayaka of course stayed behind to wait for him.
''Not my fault it's so boring. The best way to learn how to duel is to just duel. You can do all the reading in the world, but that won't help you in an actual duel.'' Allen said while looking at his duel disk and the deck in it with pride.
''I don't necessarily disagree, but your grades are suffering.'' She used to always ask him how his tests went so she could compare to hers, but after so many times of her having much better grades, she started to feel bad about it. ''You won't be able to become a pro duelist at this rate.'' Which is the ultimate goal of pretty much anyone and everyone who goes to Heartland Duel School.
''I know I know...I'll try.'' Allen muttered, clearly not pleased with the idea. Sayaka looked at him worried until she got an idea...an idea that made her blush a little.
''Well...'' She started to play with her fingers nervously. ''If you really need help I can...I could..'' Her cheeks were even redder now. ''I could tutor you and we could have study d-date!'' Sayaka tried not to focus too much on the word date, but the red on her cheeks was determined to stay there. ''What...'' She was about to ask his opinion on it, but...
''Hey Shun!'' He was using the Duel Disk's phone feature and talking to Shun! Sayaka sighed, he hadn't heard anything of course. ''Really, they are? Where?'' Sayaka raised an eyebrow. 'They?' Was he talking about Ruri and Yuto? ''At our usual lunchplace? Okay, we'll be there!'' Allen hang up and turned to Sayaka with a very excited look on his face. ''Ruri and Yuto are going to duel, let's go!'' Allen ran off already, leaving Sayaka standing in her place for a moment.
''If only he used that energy for studying.'' Sayaka then ran after her friend, thankful that the teacher had confiscated his rollerblades after his latest mishap. It would be so much harder to keep up with him otherwise. Soon the two reached a large tree in the middle of the school, a place they always came to have lunch. There were four different ways to go from here, each leading to one of school's branches. But they were only interested in what was under the tree, which was three people, one sitting down against the tree and two standing up with their Duel Disks active, ready to duel. ''Ruri!'' Sayaka yelled when she saw her closest friend. Ruri turned away from Yuto and smiled at her running friend.
''Sayaka!'' The two hugged when she got close, but soon let go. ''Looks like Shun told you and Allen.'' She glanced at her big brother, who just shrugged his shoulders.
''Yuto!'' Allen ran up to the boy and the two shared a quick high-five.
''Allen. Couldn't resist coming to watch I see.'' Yuto grinned and Allen laughed a bit. What can he say? He loves a good duel, as does every sane person!
''Especially if it's you two! What are the two of you dueling about anyway?'' Allen asked and Yuto suddenly glared at Ruri who was still talking to Sayaka...but when she noticed the glare, she returned it. This made both Allen and Sayaka nervous. ''Is it something serious?''
''You two...you two didn't have a big fight right?'' Sayaka asked nervously. It was hard to think they would have that big of a fight. Last time she saw them, they were happy with their relationship. The two kept on glaring at each other until...
''They can't agree where to go on their next date.'' Shun said bluntly. Sayaka and Allen paused for a minute, looked back and forth between the glaring couple and Shun and...
''Huh?!'' They both said at the same time. ''That's the reason?!'' Allen asked, hardly able to believe it, while Sayaka sighed from relief, glad it wasn't anything too serious.
''When you're that close, you start duels about just everything.'' Shun said and then smirked. ''Aren't you and Sayaka the same?'' He pointed out to Allen and got the desired results, two blushing faces.
''Ruri and Yuto are dating! We aren't! There's a difference!'' Allen denied and Sayaka nodded meekly in agreement and Shun resisted the urge to say, it's only a matter of time. ''Still I'm surprised you haven't interfered with this relationship yet.'' Allen chuckled, but that died down when Shun glared at him. ''You know, since you're so protective of Ruri.'' Which was understandable. She was very pretty and a good duelist so many guys had their eyes on her. Emphasis on had.
''It's only because I trust Yuto. If it was you...'' Shun turned to stare at Allen and suddenly he felt like there was a vulture circling above him, waiting to go for the killing strike.
''Understood!'' Allen said nervously, seeing no need for Shun to finish that sentence. Shun nodded and turned his attention back on the couple.
''Just so you know, I'm going to go all out Ruri.'' Yuto said said as his deck auto-shuffled itself and he hoped it shuffled it well. He would need everything he had to beat his girlfriend.
''I wouldn't have it any other way.'' Ruri said as her deck did the same. She would unleash the full force of her Rank 1 deck to beat her boyfriend.
''DUEL!''
Yuto's Life Points: 4000
Ruri's Life Points: 4000
''I take the first turn.'' Yuto said and he was glad that his hope wasn't for naught. ''I Normal Summon The Phantom Knights of Ancient Cloak.'' For a moment, it looked like nothing appeared on the field, but from the mist formed a ghostly figure with a broken cloak and will o wisps around it.
Attribute: Dark Type: Warrior Atk: 800 Def: 1000 Level: 3
''Next since I control The Phantom Knights monster, I can Special Summon The Phantom Knights of Silent Boots from my hand.'' Appearing as swiftly as the monster before it was another ghostly figure in ragged clothing.
Attribute: Dark Type: Warrior Atk: 200 Def: 1200 Level: 3
''Two Level 3 monsters already...'' Ruri smiled. As expected of him.
''I overlay the Level 3 Silent Boots and Ancient Cloak. With these two monsters I create an overlay network. Souls of the knights who fell on the battlefield. Revive here and now, and become the light that breaks the darkness! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 3! The Phantom Knights of Break Sword!'' A headless swordsman on a metallic horse, wielding a huge sword took the center stage. Two lights started to float around it.
Attribute: Dark Type: Warrior Atk: 2000 Def: 1000 Rank: 3
''I set two cards face-down and end my turn.'' Yuto said with a smirk. Not even Ruri was going to get through this defense easily.
''My turn!'' Ruri smiled a bit wider. She was going to show that Rank 1 was just as strong as all the other ranks in the game. ''I activate a Spell Card, Lyrical Luscinia - Gathering. During the End Phase of this turn, I can draw one card for each Lyrical Luscinia monster I Xyz Summoned with four or more materials this turn.'' A flock of feathers started to spin all around Ruri's field.
''Here it comes, Ruri's Level 1 swarming.'' Sayaka said. Ruri wouldn't use a card like that if she wasn't sure that she could fill the field.
''Since I control no monsters, I can Special Summon this monster from my hand. Lyrical Luscinia - Turqouise Wabbler.'' Down from the skies flew down a small humanoid bird in yellow.
Attribute: Wind Type: Winged Beast Atk: 100 Def: 100 Level: 1
''When Turqouise Wabbler is Special Summoned, I can Special Summon another Lyrical Luscinia monster from my hand or Graveyard. I choose to Special Summon Lyrical Luscinia - Topaz Robin!'' Next bird to fly down was a humanoid bird in red.
Attribute: Wind Type: Winged Beast Atk: 0 Def: 200 Level 1:
''When Topaz Robin is Normal or Special summoned, I can send a Lyrical Luscinia monster from my deck to my Graveyard and add another from my deck to my hand. I send Diamond Babbler from my deck to the Graveyard to add Sapphire Swallow to my hand. Next since I control a Winged Beast, I can use Sapphire Swallow's effect to Special Summon it and another Level 1 Winged Beast from my hand...like another Sapphire Swallow.'' Two blue humanoid birds flew down in a beautiful formation.
Attribute: Wind Type: Winged Beast Atk: 100 Def: 0 Level: 1
''Four level 1 monsters already.'' Yuto smiled. As expected of her.
''I overlay the level 1 Turqouise Wabbler, Topaz Robin and two Sapphire Swallows. With these four monsters, I'll create an overlay network. Birds with beautiful wings! Gather on the battlefield and take brilliant flight! Xyz Summon! Dance in the sky! Rank 1! Lyrical Luscinia - Assembly Nightingale!'' The four smaller birds were replaced by a more human-like, more beautiful and more elegant monster. Four lights started circling around it.
Attribute: Wind Type: Winged Beast Atk: 0 Def: 0 Rank: 1
''Four Xyz material Summon...that's great Ruri!'' Sayaka yelled enthusiastically, surprising Allen. It wasn't like her to raise her voice like that after all.
''Not quite, there's one more.'' Shun said as Assembly Nightingale started glowing.
''When Sapphire Swallow is used for an Xyz Summon of a Wind Xyz monster, I can attach a Lyrical Luscinia monster from my Graveyard to Assembly Nightingale as an Xyz material. I choose Diamond Babbler.'' Fifth light flew from Ruri's graveyard and joined the others in circling the bird monster. ''Assembly Nightingale gains 200 Attack for each Xyz material on it and it can attack that many times directly. Since I have five Xyz Materials, that means 1000 attack and five direct attacks.'' Ruri held up five fingers as Assembly Nightingale let out a deep chirp.
''Total of 5000 damage. It's over...is what I would say if it wasn't Yuto.'' Allen said and Shun nodded in agreement.
''Yuto's forte isn't his monsters. It's his face-down cards. As long as he has those, there's no way he's losing...and I'm sure Ruri knows that.'' Despite this, his sister didn't seem concerned at all. Well, she wouldn't use up five monsters for the summon of one if she wasn't sure it could do something.
''Let's begin. Assembly Nightingale, first attack!'' Ruri ordered. ''Let's see what you got there Yuto!''
''I activate a Continuous Trap card, Phantom Knights' Fog Blade! Now I can target one monster on the field and that monster has its effects negated, plus it cannot attack or be targeted by attacks! In other words, your offense is completely sealed off!'' Yuto snapped his fingers and a shadowy blade shot out from Yuto's trap card, soon making contact with the monster. ''Now let's see how you counter this.''
''I activate a Quick-Play Spell, Rank Up-Magic - Lyrical Luscinia Ascension!'' A bright light filled the field when the spell was activated as Shun smiled proudly. They weren't siblings for nothing. ''I target my Rank 1 Lyrical Luscinia - Assembly Nightingale and construct an overlay network with it to Xyz Summon a monster that is one rank higher than it. Elegant birds in the sky, take to the waters to ambush your enemy! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Rank 2! Lyrical Luscinia - Chorus Dipper!'' The first humanoid bird disappeared into a beautiful vortex of colors and out came a slightly larger one, with blue tint all over it and wings that looked like combination of wings and fins.
Attribute: Wind Type: Winged Beast Atk: 0 Def: 0 Rank: 2
''As expected of you Ruri.'' Yuto said, making Ruri blush and smile and of course, seeing such an adorable expression on Ruri's face made Yuto blush as well.
''Right right. you like each other. Can we move on?'' Allen asked with his arms crossed while Sayaka sighed. He couldn't be romantic even if you paid him to be.
''Chorus Dipper gains 400 Attack for each Xyz Material on it. With a total of 6, that means 2400 Attack! But don't worry, she can only attack once...directly of course.'' Ruri extended her hand and her monster understood, attack the strange-haired boy in front of her!
''Rank 2 huh...How about I counter with a monster of the same Rank?'' Yuto said, confusing Allen.
''But how. He can't Rank-Up with it.'' He might sleep during the class, but that didn't mean he didn't know 3 +1 was 4.
''If you had listened during the class, you would know what's coming.'' Sayaka said and then blushed again as she thought back to her idea. ''I...I can of course teach you that if you...'' Sayaka's words became quieter with each word, not helped with...
''I activate a Quick-Play Spell, The Phantom Knights' Rank-Down Magic Funeral!'' Oh why did Yuto have to yell that? Instead of Ruri's spell which flooded the field with light, this one filled it with darkness as a grave appeared onto the field. ''I target one Xyz Monster I control and Xyz Summon a Dark Xyz Monster that's one Rank lower by using the targeted monster as an Xyz Material.'' Break Sword disappeared into the grave, which was followed by an explosion of darkness. ''10 000 warriors entombed forever in darkness! Pierce with the cursed spear of rebellion! Descend now! Rank-Down Xyz Change! Come forth! Rank 2! The Phantom Knights of Cursed Javelin!'' The dark knight was replaced by a more grotesque monster, a skeleton with a skull javelin and shield.
Attribute: Dark Type: Warrior Atk: 1600 Def: 0 Rank: 2
''Oh, so that's Rank-Down! Interesting, not that my deck needs it.'' Allen said with a grin, making Sayaka sigh in disappointment. There went that study plan.
''No matter how many skeletons from your closet you summon, it doesn't matter. Chrorus Dipper attacks directly.'' The bird kept on advancing with its talons outstreched.
''I activate Cursed Javelin's effect! By detaching Ancient Cloak, I target one monster my opponent controls, negate its effects and make its attack 0!'' One of the floating orbs disappeared into the skeleton's Javelin and it threw it at the flying beast.
''I activate Chorus Dipper's effect that can only be activated when it has a Lyrical Luscinia Xyz Monster as an Xyz Material. By detaching Diamond Babbler, I make Cursed Javelin unaffected by all other card effects...but also negate its effects!'' Floating orb went to Chorus Dipper's beak and it let out a piercing screech, deflecting the javelin and making Cursed Javelin fall to its knees. ''Now, continue the direct attack!'' With one less Xyz material, but still. This time Yuto had nothing to protect himself with and he took the attack head-on.
Yuto's Life Points: 2000
''Wow, half of Yuto's life points right off the bat!'' Sayaka cheered, but much to her confusion, Yuto started laughing along with Ruri and the two kept on doing it for a while, clearly enjoying the sound of their significant other's laughter.
''Looks like you win this round Ruri.'' Yuto said as he stood back up from the impact of the attack. Allen was equally confused while Shun just looked on.
''When you know each other and each other's decks as well as those two...the first two turns become a competition on who can deal the first damage. They try their best to outplay each other and this time, Ruri was the one who dealt the first damage.'' Shun looked down for a moment and shrugged his shoulders. ''To be honest, I don't know what's the point of it, but they seem to enjoy it.''
''That sounds like fun! We should keep score about that as well Sayaka!''Allen said, much to the surprise of the purple-haired girl. After getting over her surprise, she pouted and looked away from the boy.
''No way, you would win every time. Your deck can deal burn damage quickly while I play more defensively, it would never work out.'' Not that she would've minded to duel against Allen more, but not with that kind of score. ''Let's just focus on the match.'' Sayaka said and Allen nodded, albeit disappointed.
''When Chorus Dipper deals battle damage, I can activate her effect. I banish her, with her Xyz Materials still attached, until my next Standby Phase.'' The bird creature dived down and disappeared with a splash of water. ''I set a card face-down and end my turn. During my End Phase, since I Xyz Summoned two Lyrical Luscinia monsters with four or more materials, I get to draw two cards.'' The feathers that had floated around Ruri finally went into her deck and she drew.
''Don't worry Ruri, I'll pay back that damage to you. My turn!'' He might not be able to do as long of a turn as Ruri, but he could do the same damage in less moves. ''I activate a Quick-Play Spell, Xyz Shuffle! With this card, I detach Break Sword from Cursed Javelin, special summon Break Sword back and attach Cursed Javelin and all of its Xyz Materials to Break Sword as Xyz materials. In other words, I trade my two Xyz Monsters places.'' Break Sword appeared back on the field with its sword up-right and Cursed Javelin and all of its Xyz Materials were attached to Break Sword. ''Next I activate Break Sword's effect! I detach Silent Boots from it and destroy one card on both of our fields. I destroy my now useless Fog Blade and your face-down!'' Break Sword swung its sword twice, the first one destroying Yuto's card and the second Ruri's, but Ruri's flipped up instead of being sent to the graveyard.
''The card you destroyed was Continuous Trap, Lyrical Luscinia - Bird House. When it's destroyed by a card effect, I can add one Lyrical Luscinia monster from my deck to my graveyard and I choose Lyrical Luscinia - Cobalt Sparrow.'' She showed the card and then added it to her hand.
''Tsch, of all the bad luck.'' Allen said with a small frown. Why couldn't that be Mirror Force or something?
''Not really. Had Yuto attacked recklessly, Ruri would have activated Bird House normally, which allows her to special summon a Lyrical Luscinia monster from her grave. She would have defense, which she now doesn't have.'' Shun explained. ''Adding a monster is bad, but much better alternative for Yuto.''
''Next, Break Sword attack Ruri directly!'' The headlesss swordsman rode forward and brought its sword down on Ruri's head, making her cover it with her arms. ''You okay Ruri?'' Yuto asked concerned. Looked like that attack hit hard.
Ruri's Life Points: 2000
''It's nothing. Dark Rebellion is much more fearsome to deal with. But I'll make sure this duel ends before it's summoned.'' Ruri said confidently as she brushed herself off from the attack.
''We'll see about that. I activate Ancient Cloak's effect from my grave. By banishing it, I add one The Phantom Knights card from my deck to my hand. I choose The Phantom Knights' of Wrong Magnet ring. I set one card face-down and end my turn.'' Yuto said, making Ruri raise an eyebrow. Setting a card immediately after adding a trap to his hand...could he be that obvious or was Yuto baiting her with a surprise trap? In any case, she couldn't back down if she was going to make sure of her promise to win before Dark Rebellion hit the field.
''My turn!'' Before Ruri could get any further, Chorus Dipper returned to the field with a splash of water. ''Good to have you back Chorus Dipper. Don't worry, you don't have to be alone for long. I Normal Summon Lyrical Luscinia - Cobalt Sparrow.'' Like all the other main deck monsters, this was a small humanoid bird, only it was dressed in brown.
Attribute: Wind Type: Winged Beast Atk: 0 Def: 100 Level: 1
''Next I activate Diamond Babbler's effect from my graveyard. By returning a Lyrical Luscinia monster I control to my hand, I can Special Summon her.'' With a wave of its wing, Cobalt Sparrow disappeared and was replaced by a similar looking monster, only in white.
Attribute: Wind Type: Winged Beast Atk: 200 Def: 200 Level: 1
''On the turn I use Diamond Babbler's effect, I can Normal Summon a Lyrical Luscinia monster in addition to my usual Normal Summon. So I Normal Summon Cobalt Sparrow back.'' The two brids high-fived. ''I overlay the Level 1 Diamond Babbler and Cobalt Sparrow. With these two monsters, I create an overlay network. Beautiful singing of the supporting bird. Let your song last forever! Xyz Summon! Take to the skies! Lyrical Luscinia - Recite Starling!'' Another older and more mature humanoid bird appeared, this one with a darker color scheme.
Attribute: Wind Type: Winged Beast Atk: 0 Def: 0 Rank: 1
''When Recite Starling is Xyz Summoned, I can target one monster on the field and that monstar gains 300 Atk and Def for each Xyz Material on Recite Starling. I target herself! Also, since Cobalt Sparrow was used for her Xyz summon, you can't target Recite Starling with effects.'' Recite Starling was surrounded by blue hue as it's attack grew to meager 600. ''Next I activate her second effect. By detaching Diamond Babbler, I can search my deck for a Level 1 Winged Beast and add it to my hand. I choose Turqouise Wabbler.'' Recite Starling made a high-pitched cry as Ruri searched her deck for yet another Level 1 monster. ''Everything's ready. Chorus Dipper, attack Yuto directly.'' Ruri said and as much as she hated to admit it, she was pretty sure this direct attack wouldn't quarantee her victory.
'I activate a Trap Card, The Phantom Knights of Wrong Magnet Ring. This card negates your attack and afterwards, it's summoned on to the field as a monster!'' A floating magnet ring absorbed Chorus Dipper's attack, forcing the bird to retreat. As soon as the threat was over, a hooded ghost grabbed the ring and floated down on to the field.
Attribute: Dark Type: Warrior Atk: 0 Def: 0 Level: 2
''As I thought. Maybe next time don't reveal your trap immediately before you set it.'' Ruri said in a teasing tone, making Yuto grin sheepisly.
''Well it worked didn't it?'' Yuto asked and the grin turned into a smirk. ''Besides, knowing it's there is only half the battle. You always have to find a way to deal with it too.'' And sometimes, running into those traps was the only way to do it.
''Well I know exactly how to deal with this. Recite Strling, attack Wrong Magnet Ring.'' The second bird creature flew up high, ready to go for a strike.
''I activate Wrong Magnet Ring's effect! By sending it and Break Sword to the graveyard, I can draw two cards.'' All of the sudden, the two dark and ghostly monsters disappeared from the field, leaving Yuto completely defenseless, but with more cards in his hand.
''Fine then. I'll just attack directly. Recite Starling!'' Said monster dove down from the sky, slashed Yuto with her wing and flew back to Ruri's side of the field.
Yuto's Life Points: 1400
''I set a card face-down and end my turn.'' Ruri said, pretty satisfied with what she's got and what she can still bring out.
''Things seem to be back in Ruri's favor.'' Sayaka said with a smile, glad that her best friend was doing so well against Yuto. However, this enthusiasm was not shared by Allen.
''Don't count Yuto out yet, he just drew two cards after all. He'll turn this around.'' Allen said, his faith on the Rank 3 duelist unshakeable.
''I'm...I'm glad we can get along like this even if we cheer for different people.'' Sayaka said, making Allen a bit confused.
''Is that so weird? We're friends after all.'' Allen said with a small smile as Sayaka looked away, as if she was disappointed.
''Friends...right.'' Sayaka focused her attention back on the match and while Allen thought this was a bit odd, he didn't press the issue. Shun gave them a cursory glance, but didn't comment further either.
''My turn!'' Yuto was very satisfied. He might have gotten bit behind on life points last turn, but that was worth it for what he had right now. ''I banish Phantom Knights' Fog Blade from my graveyard in order to special summon Silent Boots back to the field.'' A pair of boots appeared on the field and soon the rest of their spiritual owner appeared as well. ''Then I Normal Summon The Phantom Knights of Torn Bandage.'' Another ghost figure appeared, but this one had bandages all of its body and clothes, but none of them were complete. All of them were torn in half or ripped in some other way.
Attribute: Dark Type: Warrior Atk: 1000 Def: 1400 Level: 3
''I overlay the level 3 Silent Boots and Torn Bandage. With these two monsters, I create an overlay network. Spirit of the hunter warrior. Rise from the grave and take aim on the living! Xyz Summon! Appear now! Rank 3! The Phantom Knights of Arrowless Bow!'' This Xyz monster was another knight-like figure, but it's armor was lighter shade of black than Break Sword's and instead of a sword and shield, it had a bow. But there was not a single arrow in sight.
Attribute: Dark Type: Warrior Atk: 2200 Def: 500 Rank: 3
''When Torn Bandage is used for an Xyz Summon of a Dark attribute monster, I can use this effect. I gain 500 life points for each banished The Phantom Knights monster and Phantom Knight's spell/trap card. With two, I gain 1000 life points!'' Small orbs of darkness fell down on Yuto, making him feel slightly more refreshed.
Yuto's Life Points: 2400
''Now Bowless Arrow, attack Chorus Dipper!'' The knight took aim with its bow and...threw it at the larget bird with surprising amount of force, destroying the monster on the impact and the bow returned to the attacker, almost like it was a boomerang.
Ruri's Life Points: 1800
''And don't think that Recite Starling is safe! On my Main Phase 2, I activate Arrowless Bow's effect! I detach Torn Bandage and banish the monster my opponent controls with the lowest attack. Since this effect doesn't target, Cobalt Sparrow's effect doesn't save it!'' Yuto declared and one of the floating orbs around Arrowless Bow flew into its bow and formed an invisible arrow, which it shot at the only remaining monster on Ruri's side of the field. Once the arrow hit, Recite Starling disappeared completely. ''I set two cards face-down and end my turn.''
''See, I told that Yuto would turn things around.'' Allen said with a thumbs up that Yuto gladly returned. ''Duels this intense are awesome! I wish I could have duels like this...'' He continued, making Sayaka look downcast.
''Sorry for not being a good opponent...'' She said while twiddling with her thumbs and Allen turned towards her worried.
''No, I didn't mean it like that! You're a good opponent, it's just that...'' Allen paused, having not thought how to end this sentence before he actually started it. ''C'mon, think of something that doesn't insult her.'' ''It's just that, Yuto and Ruri are better duelists...of course they're better than me as well and not just you...I mean...'' Allen felt like every time he opened his mouth, he just stuck his foot in there.
''I think you could beat both Ruri and Yuto.'' Sayaka said, smiling again and showing she hadn't taken it that badly.
''Oh...thanks.'' Allen said while looking away, trying to hide the blush that was starting to creep up.
''My turn!'' Ruri might've looked like she was in a tight spot, but she knew exactly how to handle herself. ''Once again, since I control no monsters, I can Special Summon Turqouise Wabbler from my hand.'' The yellow humanoid bird made her second appearance and started singing. ''When she's Special Summoned, I can Special Summon Cobalt Sparrow from my hand.'' Next was the brown one, who also started signing. ''When Cobalt Sparrow is Special Summoned, I can add one Level 1 Winged Beast monster from my deck to my hand and I choose Topaz Robin, which I Normal Summon to the field.'' Red joined the others bird in singing. ''With her effect, I send Agate Martin from my deck to the grave to add Sapphire Swallow from my deck to my hand. Next I activate Diamond Babbler's effect from grave! I return Cobalt Sparrow from my field to my hand and Special Summon Diamond Babbler back to the field.'' Brown was replaced by white, but the singing remained mostly the same. ''Finally I use Sapphire Swallow's effect from my hand. Since I control a Winged-Beast monster, I can special summon it and another Winged-Beast from my hand, like Cobalt Sparrow that I just returned.'' Brown bird returned, this time accompanied by a blue one and now the field was full of singing birds.
''Wow, did you see that?''
''She just filled the field with monsters.''
''That's amazing!''
Yuto and Ruri's little duel had started to gather more of an audience than just Allen, Sayaka and Shun and more importantly, everyone was smiling and looking happy.
''I'm so glad my dueling can make so many people happy.'' Ruri said with a big smile of her own. She never cared if she won or lost as long as the people watching were happy...though this was one duel she definitely wanted to win.
''If you ask me, it's impossible not to be happy and smiling when you're around.'' Yuto said, blushing a little at what he said and Ruri blushed as well.
''Thank you Yuto...but no amount of flattery will make me go easy on you.'' Ruri reminded him and Yuto nodded.
''I wouldn't have it any other way.'' Yuto said and Ruri took this a sign to continue with her turn.
''I overlay Level 1 Turqouise Wabbler, Cobalt Sparrow, Topaz Robin, Diamond Babbler and Sapphire Swallow. With these five monsters, I create an overlay network. Graceful birds in the sky, create the most beautiful form of battle! Xyz Summon! Rule the skies! Rank 1! Lyrical Luscinia - Duet Cardinal!'' This humanoid bird was very red in color and its claws and beak looked especially sharp.
Attribute: Wind Type: Winged Beast Atk: 0 Def: 0 Level: 1
''I activate Sapphire Swallow's effect. Since it was used for an Xyz Summon of a Wind monster, I can attach a Lyrical Luscinia monster in my grave to Duet Cardinal as an Xyz material and I choose Assembly Nightingale.'' Sixth orb of light started to circle around the monster. ''Duet Cardinal gains 500 Attack for each Xyz Material on it, making for a total of 3000. But don't worry, she will be 500 weaker now that I use her effect. By detaching an overlay unit, I can destroy a monster who's original attack is higher than Duet Cardinal's original attack and Arrowless Bow fits that description!'' Duet Cardinal let out a powerful screech towards the knight bowman.
''I remove Torn Bandage from my graveyard from play to activate its effect. The first time The Phantom Knights monster would be destroyed this turn, it isn't.'' Spirit of Torn Bandage floated in front of Arrowless Knight and it took all of the soundwaves on, before disappearing from the field once more.
''Let's do this the old-fashioned way then. Duet Cardinal, attack Arrowless Bow.'' Since Yuto had two face-downs, she was expecting something to happen, but instead, Duet Cardinal's claws tore Yuto's monster apart and threw it at him, making Yuto flinch a bit.
Yuto's Life Points: 2100
''Duet Cardinal can make a second attack each Battle Phase. Attack directly!'' Ruri ordered and if this time nothing happened, she would be very confused.
''I activate a Quick-Play Spell, The Phantom Knights' Rank-Up Magic Vengeance. On the turn The Phantom Knights Xyz Monster I control has been destroyed by battle and sent to the graveyard, I can activate this card to Special Summon that Xyz Monster and then use it for an Xyz Summon of a Dark Xyz that is one Rank higher! And I think we both know what's coming.'' Yuto grinned victoriously as Ruri nodded. It was going to be a Rank 4 anf there was only one of those in Yuto's deck. Arrowless Bow returned to the field, but it didn't stay there for long. "Formed from pitch-black darkness, to fight those foolish enough to oppose it with its treacherous fangs! Now, descend! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Appear! Rank 4! Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon!'' Yuto's signature dark-colored dragon took the stage with a terrifying cry.
Attribute: Dark Type: Dragon Atk: 2500 Def: 2000 Rank: 4
''What's with that thing?''
''It's kind of scary...''
''Can we get back to pretty birds?''
Yuto sighed. His dragon wasn't bad despite its appearance and name. He was glad that Ruri understood that, since she was smiling. ''Xyz Monster summoned with Rank-Up Vengeance gains Attack equal to the original attack of the monster used for its Xyz Summon until the end of this turn.'' Dark Rebellion's Attack climbed all the way up to 4700, which was too much for Duet Cardinal to get past.
''Yuto, do you remember the last time we did deck-building together?'' Ruri asked suddenly. Yuto was caught a bit off-guard, but luckily he remembered it.
''It was a week ago, why?'' Yuto asked, wondering if this was some sort of test. Was she going to ask when they started dating next?
''Do you remember how I recommended that you add Xyz Shuffle to your deck?'' Yuto nodded, still not sure where this was going. ''Do you remember why I recommended it?'' There was something about Ruri's tone that worried Yuto and then it hit him.
''it was because...''
''Because I have it. I activate a Quick-Play Spell, Xyz Shuffle! As you know, what this basically does is switch Duet Cardinal and Assembly Nightingale's places.'' The two elegant birds changed their places, Duet Cardinal turning into one of the light orbs while Assembly NIghtingale took center stage. ''In case you don't remember, Assembly Nightingale gains 200 Attack Points and an attack from each Xyz material on it, plus it can attack directly.'' The situation was exactly the same as in the beginning of the duel. 1000 Attack Point Nightingale threatening to attack Yuto directly many times for victory. ''Let's make it happen this time! Assembly Nightingale, attack Yuto directly!'' Maybe for once Yuto's face-down was a bluff and she would...
''I activate a Trap Card, Overlay Wave!'' Ruri sighed. Yep, Yuto never bluffs. ''By detaching all Xyz Materials from Dark Rebellion, my opponent's monsters lose 800 attack for each one. With one, Assembly Nightingale's attack drops to 200.'' The light orb floating around Dark Rebellion burst into many smaller ones which came back together in a wave that washed over Assembly Nightingale, significantly weakening her.
''I'll attack directly anyway. Five attacks Assembly Nightingale!'' Ruri held up five fingers and put one down each time one of Assembly Nightingale feather storms hit Yuto. Once the last of the attacks hit, Yuto knelt down from the impact.
Yuto's Life Points: 1100
''I end my turn there. Are you going to stand up Yuto or stay on your knee for more...romantic purposes?'' Ruri teased, making Yuto blush and rub his neck nervously, before getting back up.
''If I was going to do that, I would pick a better spot and a moment.'' Yuto laughed nervously, until he felt a chill go down his spine. ''Don't worry Shun, I have no plans like that.'' He said to Shun who had started to glare at him intensely. He kept on glaring for a while until his gaze finally softened. ''Note to self, don't joke about marrying Ruri around Shun.''
''So...can we get invitations to the wedding when it happens?'' Allen asked, having picked up on the romantic context as well. Shun would've responded with a glare, but he had a better response in mind.
''As long as we get invited to your and Sayaka's.'' Allen's face turned bright red and so did Sayaka's.
''I walked right into that one...'' Allen mumbler under his breath and glanced at Sayaka, which made his cheeks even redder.
''My turn! I activate The Phantom Knights' Rank-Up Magic Launch. By targeting a Dark Xyz Monster I control with no Xyz Materials, I can Xyz Summon a Dark Xyz monster that is one Rank higher by using it as a material. From the depths of purgatory, sing the song of rebellion dedicated to the unsinking souls! Appear and echo forevemore! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Appear, Rank 5! Dark Requiem Xyz Dragon!'' This dragon was more skeletal in design, making it look intimidating, but the colorful design on its wings gave some sense of hope.
Attribute: Dark Type: Dragon Atk: 3000 Def: 2500 Rank: 5
''Dark Requiem...'' Ruri was surprised. She had never seen this card before, despite having dueled Yuto so many times. ''You're really taking this date thing seriously, aren't you?'' Ruri asked. On one hand, it was kind of cute, but it was also frustrating since that meant she wasn't getting what she wanted.
''Of course I am. After activation, Launch attaches itself to the Xyz monster as an Xyz material, but it won't stay as one for long since I activate Dark Requiem's effect. By detaching an Xyz Material, I reduce Assembly Nightingale's attack to 0 and Dark Requiem gains attack equal to her original attack...if she had any.'' Orbs on Dark Requiem's body started glowing and dark energy erupted from them, which wrapped around Ruri's Xyz Monster, making it unable to move. ''Next I activate Launch's another effect. By banishing it from the graveyard, I can attach The Phantom Knights monster from my hand to Dark Requiem as an Xyz Material. I attach The Phantom Knights of Ragged Gloves.'' And with that, two orbs of light were once again circling around the powerful dragon. ''Now Dark Requeim, attack Assembly Nightingale.'' The large dragon flew high up in the sky and then rushed down on the opponent's monster.
''I activate Assembly Nightingale's effect! By detaching an overlay unit, my Lyrical Luscinia cannot be destroyed this turn and I take no battle damage.'' Ruri thought that she was safe with this move, but...
''i activate Dark Requiem's second effect! By detaching Ragged Gloves, I negate my opponent's monster's effect and destroy the monster, plus Special Summon an Xyz Monster from my Graveyard.''
''What?!'' Ruri hadn't realized the monster would have such a powerful effect. If she didn't do something soon, she would lose! ''I activate a Trap Card, Overlay Barrier! For each Xyz Material I detach from Assembly Nightingale, I reduce battle damage I take this turn by 1000. I detach four, so I reduce this turn's battle damage by 4000.'' Before it was destroyed by Dark Requiem's effect, all light orbs around the bird disappeared and surrounded Ruri, creating a barrier around her. ''Sorry about that, Assembly Nightingale.'' It was her ace monster after all, even if it wasn't the strongest one she had.
''As per Dark Requiem's effect, I Special Summon Arrowless Bow from my Graveyard.'' Next to the terrifying dragon appeared back the warrior with the bow, but with zero arrows. ''Now Dark Requim, attack Ruri directly.'' The dragon continued its attack and despite all the force behind it, the barrier around Ruri stayed firm. ''Arrowless Bow, continue where Dark Requem left off.'' The knight threw its bow at the barrier, which reflected it off...but then the bow came around again behind, which broke thte barrier to pieces and hit Ruri, before returning to its owner.
Ruri's Life Points: 600
''On my Main Phase 2, I banish Silent Boots from my Graveyard to add The Phantom Knights' Around Burn to my hand. I set a card face-down and end my turn.'' Yuto's hand was empty, meaning that the card he had just set was the one he just added to this hand.
''Around Burn? Why would he add that card in this situation?'' Ruri was confused by Yuto's strategy, but she had no time to focus on it. It was her own turn and she needs a really good draw to turn this around.
''Ruri is in a pretty tight spot. Her field swarming is dependant on monster effects and Dark Requiem still has one Xyz Material yet. With no cards in her hand, if Ruri draws a monster, she loses.'' Allen said, already feeling pretty confident about Yuto's victory.
''I believe in you Ruri! You can do it!'' Sayaka yelled, really wanting her best friend to win this duel.
''Thank you Sayaka.'' Ruri said and drew the card. From the corner of her eye, she saw that the card frame was green, a spell card. But it wasn't just any spell card. ''I acivate Lyrical Luscinia Ascension's effect from my grave. By banishing it, I can Special Summon one Lyrical Luscinia Xyz Monster from my grave with her effects negated and I choose Chorus Dipper.'' The aquatic bird appeared back on to the field, but with its effects negated and no overlay units attached, it posed no threat to Yuto. ''It's so sad to see one of my monsters with no materials on it. I think I'm going to summon a new one...with nine materials.'' Ruri smiled and Yuto stared at her like she had just grown a second head.
''What?!''
''Nine materials?!
''That's impossible!'' Allen and Sayaka agreed, there was no way Ruri could do what she was proposing. Only one who didn't look shocked, was Shun.
''I activate Rank-Up Magic - Lyrical Luscinia Concert. I target a Lyrical Luscinia Xyz Monster I control and Xyz Summon a monster that has double her Rank by using the targeted monster as an Xyz Material. Take flight to the heavens, the most beautiful and talented of all birds. Rank-Up Xyz Change! Rank 4! Take over the skies! Lyrical Luscinia - Supreme Raven!'' On Ruri's field appeared a very large bird creature with extremely large four dark wings, feathers that made it look it had a cape and claws and beak that looked extremely sharp. But like all other Ruri's Xyz monsters, she had a humanoid form and she was easily the tallest of all the birds so far.
Attribute: Wind Type: Winged Beast Atk: 0 Def: 0 Rank: 4
''Okay, I admit that looks strong, but how are you going make it have eight more materials on it?'' Yuto asked, his whole body shadowed by the large creature.
''With her effect. When Supreme Raven is Xyz Summoned, I can attach as many differently named Lyrical Luscinia monsters in my Graveyard to it as an Xyz Material and if you do the math, there's eight of them there.'' Yuto's eyes widened. He couldn't allow that effect to go off.
''I activate Dark Requiem's effect! By detaching Dark Rebellion, I negate your monster effect and summon Dark Rebellion to my side of the field.'' He couldn't even imagine how terrifying Ruri's monster with that many materials on it would be so he wasn't going to allow it!
''I banish Lyrical Luscinia Concert from my Graveyard to activate its effect. This turn, Lyrical Luscinia monsters I control are unaffected by effects from monsters who's rank or level is higher than theirs. As Dark Requiem is Rank 5, the effect fails!'' And since there was no destruction, Dark Rebellion wasn't summoned to the field. ''Now allow me to continue. With Supreme Raven's effect I attach to her Sapphire Swallow, Cobalt Sparrow, Turqouise Wabbler, Topaz Robin, Agate Martin, Diamond Babbler, Assembly Nightingale and Duet Cardinal.'' With that, Supreme Raven had a total of nine light orbs circling around it.
''Wow...she really did it.'' Allen could hardly believe it. And while Sayaka was very happy that her friend managed to pull that off, there was a part of her that was worried.
''Can I ever hope to match up to her?'' Sayaka thought as she glanced between Allen and Ruri. Since Ruri was dating Yuto, she doubted Allen had feelings for her, but you could never really know. It's not like you could prevent yourself from falling in love with someone. If Allen became interested in Ruri, would she...
''When Supreme Raven has three or more Xyz Materials, she gains 800 Attack Points from each Xyz Materials on her. With nine that means 7200 Attack Points.'' Supreme Raven surged with power as her attack points vastly outclassed the two other monsters on the field. ''And now I'll use those attack points! Supreme Raven, attack Dark Requiem Xyz Dragon!'' Supreme Raven flew up high and spread out its four wings. It flapped all four of them at the same time, creating a very powerful storm that was about to hit Yuto's field.
''I activate a Quick-Play Spell, The Phantom Knights' Around Burn! By banishing Break Sword and Rugged Gloves from my Graveyard, I destroy all monsters on the field, end the Battle Phase and we both lose 800 life points for each monster that was sent from our fields to our graveyard by this effect.'' A large circle of fire surrounded the battlefield, making Supreme Raven stop her attack.
''But Yuto has two monsters and Ruri has one. Is he hoping for a draw?'' Allen wondered.
''I wonder what that would mean for their date.'' Sayaka said, also confused by Yuto's strategy.
''When Supreme Raven has five or more Xyz materials, she can't be destroyed or targeted by card effects. So it looks like you'll be wiping yourself out Yuto.'' Ruri said. Even if her monster would be destroyed, it would just end in a draw, so she didn't understand why Yuto searched that card out of all cards. The fire circle around the field got closer and closer until it demolished both of Yuto's monsters. Once that was done, a smaller ring of fire surrounded Yuto, burning him for damage.
Yuto's Life Points: 300
''But...two of your monsters were destroyed. Why did you only lose life points for one?'' Ruri asked, having already expected her victory to be certain.
''When Arrowless Bow is destroyed by a card effect, it's banished instead of being sent to the graveyard so I only took damage for Dark Requeim. And now, the Battle Phase is over.'' Yuto said, feeling frustrated about that move. Sure he survived another turn, but he had only managed to damage himself.
''I see. Had my monster been destroyed, I would have lost. That's why you searched for that card.'' Ruri said and Yuto nodded.
''Don't worry Yuto! You can still draw a card that can beat her!'' Allen cheered for his friend. After all, Ruri had no cards in her hand before her turn either and she was able to bring out a monster like Supreme Raven so he was sure that Yuto could do the same.
''Unfortunately, Yuto can't draw a card for his next turn.'' Ruri said, surprising the trio of friends that were watching and especially the boyfriend that was dueling. ''In fact, he won't have a turn at all.''
''I...I won't have a turn?'' Yuto didn't understand what she was talking about unless...no way. Could it have that kind of effect?
''When Supreme Raven has seven or more Xyz Materials, I can detach seven to skip your next turn.'' Seven orbs of light disappeared into Supreme Raven's wings and she flapped her wings, making a tornado that resembled an hourglass. It sucked Yuto in and spun him around and around for a bit and once he was out of there, he looked at his duel disk and gasped.
''Turn 10, Ruri Kurosaki.'' His turn had really been skipped and Ruri had already drawn a card for her next turn!
''It's...it's okay Yuto! Since Supreme Raven only has two Xyz materials, none of her effects are active. If you survive this turn, you can still turn it around!'' Allen said, sure that Ruri made a mistake in skipping Yuto's turn. She should have just stayed with a 7200 attack point, near unbeatable monster.
''Ruri, you have to finish it during this turn!'' Sayaka said. After all if she didn't, she would have a 0 attack and defense point monster on the field with only 600 life points left.
''I activate...Agate Martin's effect from my graveyard. By discarding a card, I can attach it from my grave to a Lyrical Luscinia Xyz Monster I control as an Xyz material.'' An orb of light came out of Ruri's graveyard and started floating around the great bird. ''With three Xyz materials, Supreme Raven gains 800 Attack Points from each, for a total of 2400!'' Which was eight times more than what she needed to finish Yuto off. ''Supreme Raven, attack Yuto directly!'' Ruri smiled, her victory and date was secure! Supreme Raven created another storm that took Yuto with it one more time and left him lying on to the ground.
Yuto's Life Points: 0
Allen, Sayaka and Shun started clapping immediately after the duel ended and some of the other spectators joined in as well. Ruri on the other hand, ran over to her fallen boyfriend to check if he was okay.
''Does it hurt anywhere?'' Ruri asked, almost hoping Yuto would say yes so she could kiss him better.
''No, I'm fine.'' Yuto said as he got up from the ground to be on the same level as Ruri. ''That was really impressive, you just keep improving by the day.'' One of these days, he was sure she could even take on Kaito.
''Thank you.'' Ruri blushed and moved some of her hair that was getting to her face to the side. ''So since I won, you know what that means...'' Ruri said in a sing-song tone, very fitting considering the deck she used.
''Romantic movie?''
''Romantic movie!'' Ruri repeated and hugged Yuto, so glad about this. ''Oh, but don't worry. We'll do what you want next time.'' Ruri said, making Yuto smile as wide as she.
''That duel was so awesome! Sayaka, let's have a duel right now!'' Allen said, already activating his duel disk, much to the shock of his meeker friend.
''W-What?! S-Sorry, but I can't. I...I'm in the middle of adjusting my deck and I'm still not sure on what to take out and put in and...'' Sayaka said, hoping that Allen wasn't too disappointed by this. He looked so eager too.
''Oh is that all? In that case, why don't I come to your house after school and help you with it?'' Allen asked and Sayaka could hardly believe her ears.
''Really? You mean it?'' She had to make sure that he wasn't pulling her leg here.
''Yeah of course. Unless you don't want me to...''
''No of course I do! I would love it!'' Sayaka said...maybe a bit too enthusiastically and too loud. She seemed to realize it herself as her face turned red and she started playing with her fingers. ''I'll...I'll just tell my parents you're coming.'' She said as she walked a bit further and activated her duel disk's phone mode. ''Hey mom, Allen's coming over after school. ...He's not my boyfriend!'' Sayaka may have been farther away, but Allen still heard that, making him blush. He glanced at Shun who was just smirking.
''Is this some sort of karmic punishment for teasing Ruri and Yuto so much before they got together?'' Allen asked, not that he expected Shun to answer...but he did anyway.
''And after all that teasing they got together. What does that say about you and Sayaka?'' Shun asked and Allen looked back at Sayaka, who was still red and clearly frantically saying something to her mother.
''Who knows...'' Allen said with a smile and then he glanced at Ruri and Yuto. ''Still, I'm surprised. Ruri and Yuto are kissing there and you're taking it pretty well.'' When he said the word kiss, he could swear he saw Shun's eyes twitch a bit.
''Like I said, I trust Yuto to...
''Hey hey, where is Yuto putting his hands now?'' Allen asked and Shun made a mad dash for the couple immediately when he heard that and separated the two. Shun started chasing Yuto around while Ruri laughed. Allen looked back at Sayaka and smiled a bit further. Hopefully things would last like this forever.
...
And we're done! This actually turned out to be pretty close to the length of the first chapter. Didn't actually mean that to happen, but I doubt anyone complains about a lengthy chapter and a duel.
Two duels down and two more to go. Can bracelet girls keep up their winning streak? Who knows!
Review if you liked, review if you didn't like