With my introduction, I saw Jaden let out a sweatdrop, and Syrus nodded as if he understood me.
I couldn't help but laugh from seeing the two very contrasting reactions.
"Hehe, sorry. Sorry." I apologized before receiving a small ping from my PDA. "I think we should get a move on. Catch you guys later."
The ping was a small alarm that I set up if I had less than twenty minutes left.
Knowing my poor sense of direction, I think I should hustle.
But before I could get another step in the right direction, I felt a hand on my shoulder and turned around.
"Aw, come on, man! We're going in the same direction, aren't we? Let's walk together, alright?" He cheerfully offered as he pulled me along.
You aren't giving me much of a choice...
The Slifer Red's outgoing and friendly nature was infectious, as it was nothing I had seen before.
I wasn't too comfortable with walking a guy who chased me back to my dormitory, but it was nigh impossible to turn him down.
Besides, we joked about the chase, so I think it's all water over the bridge.
He has this weird... aura around him, as if he can be friends with anyone and anything.
I wouldn't mind being friends with him.
"Sure..." I mumbled, with a slight smile on my face. "Let's get going."
With that, the three of us recovered the lost ground and walked back, with Jaden making small talk along the way.
As we continued our walk, the smaller figure, who had previously been largely silent, finally found his voice.
Syrus, the boy with turquoise hair, cleared his throat and extended his hand toward me.
"H-Hi, there! I don't think we've properly met yet." He stated, his voice now softer now that he was introducing himself. "I'm Syrus Truesdale; nice to meet you!"
It was a little awkward to offer this while we were walking, but I obliged him.
I mean, he looks shy but sincere.
I extended my hand, returning a firm handshake and giving him a polite smile.
"Likewise, it's nice to meet you."
The conversation flowed more easily after that, as Syrus was a pleasant person, eager to share about his experiences so far at Duel Academy.
In contrast, Jaden's energy kept the conversation alive as he added details on what had happened so far.
"Yeah, I was so close to beating that Obelisk Blue. I drew a Miracle Fusion! That would've been enough to send his monster packing!" He exclaimed with a happy grin. "But before I ca-"
Before he can get another word out, his companion cries out to interrupt him.
"Jaden! Come on...!" Syrus whispered as if trying to keep a lid on the story, to which he sheepishly rubbed his head.
I could only arch an eyebrow at what they were talking about.
"What? I know what Miracle Fusion does. Banish monsters from the field or graveyard, and bring a Fusion Monster. So I'm guessing you were going to bring out another Elemental Hero Flame Wingman?" I added, which had caught Jaden by surprise. "What's so wrong about it? I played against HEROes before."
The two traded a glance as if trying to come to a consensus on something.
"You're right... That was exactly what I was going to do." Jaden answered before shrugging. "I couldn't play the card because campus security was about to catch us. Oh well."
Syrus let out an exasperated sigh, giving up on trying to hide the story from me.
It was perfectly reasonable, too, since I was pretty much a stranger to them.
However, Jaden wasn't fazed by this at all and instead gave him a warm smile.
"You don't have to worry, Sy. I'm sure Sora won't tell anyone about it. He did check up on you when you fell, right?" He reasoned. "Besides, I doubt Chazz or Alexis will tell anyone about it either."
My body tensed up at the mention of Alexis as I was immediately reminded of her scathing glares from before.
The two were now looking at me for reassurance, which I forced myself to give.
"Y-Yeah, there's nothing to worry about. If anything, having late-night duels shouldn't be a big deal, right?" I managed to say.
Jaden chuckled at this and nodded approvingly.
"That's what I was saying! This is a dueling academy, so why not let us duel for the entire day?!"
Syrus and I winced at the thought of constantly dueling opponents for such a duration.
Yeah, that's not going to be happening anytime soon.
Our conversation had shifted to what our dreams would be after we had graduated from this academy.
My answer from before didn't change in the slightest.
"A salaryman?" He echoed, the confusion evident in his voice. "But...why? You're at Duel Academy, man! You can do much better than that! Aim higher!"
I gave him a small shrug.
"I mean, it's not that I don't enjoy dueling or anything. But for me, a steady job and a comfortable life are more appealing, you know?"
Jaden didn't seem convinced, but Syrus chimed in before he could respond.
"I get where Sora's coming from, Jaden. Not everyone's goal is to be the top duelist or make a career out of it. Some people value stability more."
Jaden seemed to mull over this for a moment, scratching his chin in thought. "Huh. I guess that's true. Everyone has their own goals."
"Yeah, exactly," I said, grinning at Syrus in appreciation.
This was the main reason why I even enrolled here after all.
"But then again..." Syrus trailed off as he looked in my direction. "I'm not the one who forced an examiner to lose their hand... thrice."
That got the brown-haired duelist gears going.
"Wait a minute, are you the guy who decked out one of the examiners?! The 'Deck Wrecker'?!" He rhetorically asked, with stars in his eyes. "That's awesome! Dude, we have to duel!"
I felt an odd sense of deja vu from this exchange, as being impressed was an understatement.
It looked as if he had just found a rare booster pack from under a box.
Wait, a duel?
Deck Wrecker?
I gave a troubled sigh as I didn't know what to say.
Guess I'll be honest about my intentions for Duel Academy.
"Look, Jaden." I tried to explain. "I came to Duel Academy to study, not to duel. I want to graduate and show future employers that I attended this academy."
With these words, I had expected to deflate his enthusiasm.
However, Jaden didn't seem dissuaded by my refusal; if anything, it seemed only to fuel his enthusiasm further.
"But dueling is part of the experience, Sora!" He countered, his face beaming. "It's not just about winning or losing. It's about expressing yourself, honing your skills, and having fun! Besides, you can't deny that you were enjoying a duel, right?"
Dueling is part of the experience...
And that I was enjoying dueling...
With a bit of soul-searching, I couldn't deny what he was saying.
When I dueled against the examiner, it was true that I was having fun again.
And not to mention that I locked away a small part of me for so long.
Despite my reservations, I must admit he had a very compelling argument.
But if I'm building a reputation, then I should keep it low-key.
Having a spotlight in this school sounds like a death wish and outweighs any benefits, I think.
"That's... fair. Maybe you're right. But that doesn't mean I want to be some kind of dueling sensation." I argued, knowing that it didn't hold much weight.
The chips were in Jaden's favor as he chuckled, seeming undeterred by my resistance.
"Who said anything about becoming a sensation?" He teased, his eyes sparkling with mirth. "I just want to see your style in action, man. Come on, what do ya say?"
This guy's charm is something else...
"Alright, alright. I'll duel you, but only when I'm ready. It's been a while since I dueled seriously and against another Hero duelist." I finally relented. "Is that alright with you?"
For some reason, the Hero duelist was perplexed by what I had said but shrugged it off.
But nonetheless, he nodded and gave me a thumbs-up.
"Yep! That sounds good! Oh, man! I can't wait!"
We had finally recovered the distance we had lost and were now approaching the campus.
Although I didn't get a good view of it before, I was taken aback by how grand the main building was.
I glanced over at Jaden, who was looking at the Academy buildings with wide-eyed amazement, almost like it was his first time seeing them.
The Slifer Red had lagged a few steps behind, seemingly lost in thought.
He looked confused as if he were still trying to recall something.
However, every now and then, he'd chime in with a comment or a question, clearly not wanting to be left out of the conversation.
Despite this, I figured this would be a good time to ask him what he was thinking when he was chasing me.
"Well..." I began, taking advantage of the lull and trying to keep the conversation casual. "So why were you chasing me, anyway?"
He blinked, pulling his attention away from the scenery and onto me.
"Hmm?" He hummed as he rubbed his chin in thought. "Oh, right. That."
The Slifer Red's brown eyes drifted into thought for a moment, a sheepish smile forming on his face.
I awaited his answer as we slowed our pace.
"You know... I'm not really sure, ehehe." He answered.
Despite the unspoken forgiveness from before, I felt a slight irritation popping up inside of me.
"What do you mean, 'not sure'?" I pressed.
For all his cheeriness, he knew that his words would slight anyone, so he looked me in the eye.
"Well..." He hesitated, looking for the right words. "It's like... I recognized you from somewhere, you know? But I couldn't remember from where, so I thought maybe if I could talk to you, I might remember."
He... recognized me from somewhere?
From where?
Was it during my childhood when I was playing with other kids in Duel Monsters?
Did we duel?
I don't remember dueling any other Elemental Hero decks as a kid, except Koyo's.
Yeah, nothing's ringing a bell.
"Recognize me? I don't think we met before, right?"
He shrugged, grinning at our mutual confusion.
"Guess so. But still, I had the feeling I'd seen you somewhere."
Jaden's statement piqued my curiosity, and I tried to place a face in my memories.
So he saw me somewhere?
But where?
"Hmm... OK." I mused, giving him a thoughtful nod. "That's weird, but it's alright. It's in the past anyway."
We both chuckled at the absurdity of the situation, and the walk to class didn't feel that long anymore.
It was a strange encounter, but it made the morning more interesting.
As we reached the main building, I could see other students starting to fill the halls. It was clear that another exciting day at Duel Academy was about to begin.
However, as we walked, I couldn't help but notice the subtle sneers from the Obelisk Blues and Ra Yellow students alike.
So this is the discrimination that the Slifer Reds must always deal with.
No wonder so many of them want to transfer over to other dorms.
Jaden was either aloof or didn't care about them, but I couldn't say the same for Syrus.
He looked like he was on the verge of a nervous breakdown.
I gave him a smile to reassure him to keep pushing on, to which he gave me a grateful nod back.
As we walked into the lecture room, I spotted Bastion in the middle row, engrossed in a book.
The title was a mouthful about 'Advanced Math Applications in Dueling Strategies.' I led Syrus and Jaden over to him.
"Bastion," I called out, catching his attention.
He looked up from his book, adjusting his reading glasses.
"Sora, good to see you," he greeted me, then glanced at the duo beside me. "You two are... Jaden Yuki and Syrus Truesdale, right? We met briefly during the orientation."
"Yep, that's us," Jaden confirmed with a grin. "Good to meet you again, Bastion."
"Likewise," Bastion returned the sentiment, closing his book to give us his full attention.
As the four of us exchanged a few more pleasantries, I couldn't help but notice that same intense heat on the back of my neck.
The sensation was beginning to become too familiar, and instinctively, my eyes darted toward the upper rows of the lecture hall.
There they were.
Alexis and her two friends sat in the upper rows, chatting away. Alexis, however, was looking directly at me.
The same glare, the same intensity. It was almost as if her eyes were trying to bore a hole through me.
But this time, she simply averted her gaze from me.
Feeling a sudden pang of unease, I quickly did the same, my focus returning to the group and the conversation at hand.
But my mind remained distracted, her icy glare leaving a lasting impression.
Just as I was about to strike up another conversation, the professor walked in, signaling the start of the lecture.
All chatter in the room promptly died down, and everyone turned their attention towards the front.
It was time to focus on the class.
But somehow, I had a feeling that dealing with Alexis was going to be a class of its own.
As long as I keep my back turned and my eyes up front, I think I'll be just fine.
I took another look at the professor and was surprised by the amount of makeup she put on.
Her face was adorned with somewhat exaggerated eyelashes, eyeshadow, and lipstick.
Not only that, she had a ponytail and wore crescent-shaped earrings.
Wait...
Something's off.
It took me a moment to realize that this wasn't a woman but, in fact, a Doctor.
"Good morning, first-year students!" He boomed, his voice echoing through the lecture hall with a hint of an accent that I couldn't place my finger on. "I will be teaching the first class of the day! Dueling 101!"
It was obvious that the professor was flamboyant and reveled in the attention.
In fact, I could hear whispers around me; some students were awed, others giggled, and a few just seemed taken aback by his appearance.
Looks like I belong in the latter category.
I turned to Bastion, who had been razor-focused on the professor.
"Wait, that's a guy, right?"
He turned to me with an odd look, perplexed that I would ask a question like that in the first place.
"Yes...? Yes, he is. Doctor Crowler is the head professor and department chair of techniques at Duel Academy. Why do you ask?"
I shook my head and chuckled nervously.
"Hehe, nothing... Just curious."
Jeez, I should stop asking such weird questions.
Time seemed to blur as the initial days at Duel Academy swiftly turned into a week.
It was a rhythm, a consistent pattern of lecture halls, friendly duels, and late-night discussions about dueling strategies.
The academic rhythm was something Bastion, and I effortlessly fell into, our days naturally aligning with one another.
Our morning routine consisted of attending lectures where professors like Crowler expounded upon the intricate mechanics and tactics of Duel Monsters.
We'd often find ourselves scribbling notes vigorously, trying to keep up with the pacing of the lesson, and digesting the wealth of information handed to us.
Post lectures, we'd retreat to our dorms for a quick refresher and personal time, often absorbed in individual pursuits.
Bastion would lose himself in the pages of advanced dueling textbooks or scratch away at complicated formulas on his notepad.
I would prefer to practice the physical aspect of dueling, my cards becoming extensions of my thoughts as I strategized various combinations and possibilities.
Practical applications dominated our afternoons and evenings.
The grassy courtyards or empty lecture halls would transform into makeshift dueling arenas as we invited Jaden and Syrus for friendly duels.
Jaden's enthusiasm was infectious, his duel strategies unconventional but effective, which seemed eerily familiar to someone I knew.
Syrus, though lacking the natural instinct of his friend, showed promise with his solid understanding of basic dueling principles when he wasn't panicking about what card to play.
I would often find myself in the role of a spectator during these duels.
Observing their unique strategies and play styles was both educational and entertaining.
Whenever there was a dispute regarding a rule, I'd step in as an impromptu referee, using my books of the game's rules and mechanics to settle the disagreement.
The duels, disputes, strategies, and whatnot served as an unconventional form of rehab for me.
I had begun to remember the many strategies I used to come up with as a kid and began writing some of them in my journal.
If I wanted to re-explore a part of myself I had locked away for so long and passed some of the classes here, I needed to innovate myself.
But the toughest part was how I was going to express myself when I didn't know where to begin.
Still, the evenings were filled with light-hearted banter and laughter.
With each passing day, our group grew closer, and we began to feel like more than just classmates or dormmates but genuine friends.
During these moments, amidst the camaraderie and shared passion for dueling, I truly began to appreciate the experience of being at Duel Academy.
Despite this, the unresolved situation with Alexis loomed over me like a dark cloud.
I knew it was only a matter of time before it would need to be addressed, but for now, I chose to revel in the positivity of the present, hoping to gather the courage and right words to face that particular challenge when the time came.
Throughout this time, I haven't still forgotten my promise to the girls to apologize to Alexis, whatever the reason was.
If anything, I had been reminded of it by her earlier today.
Without wasting time, Professor Crowler dived straight into the topic of today's class.
He started the lecture with a pop quiz on the mechanics of Duel Monsters.
Alexis was quick to raise her hand to answer one of his questions on card types.
As she answered the question, I couldn't help but think about how odd Crowler's class was.
What's the point of having a class on basic game mechanics?
Something for the curriculum or to average out grades?
"Excellent, Signora Rhodes," Professor Crowler praised as she correctly named and explained all the monster card types. "As expected from my dear Obelisk Blues."
Honestly, it's kinda ridiculous to have this class.
I mean...
"Please select another student to answer the next question," He instructed.
As Alexis scanned the room, I continued to ponder on what class I could take instead of this.
I wouldn't mind a class on art.
Like a class that focuses on the art styles, inspirations, and the history behind it.
Maybe it'll help me understand dueling a little more.
Maybe...
A sudden cold dread washed over me.
"I choose... that Ra Yellow student sitting in the middle row." She answered.
W-What?
Professor Crowler then scanned my row and looked into my eyes before turning to Alexis.
"Hmm, did you mean Signore Sora?" He asked.
Oh... Crapbaskets.
"Yep! I think Sora can handle the next question, right?" She cheered with obvious malice in her voice.
I was reluctantly thrust into the spotlight as she called out my name.
She's deliberately targeting me, isn't she?
I turned around to meet her smug eyes.
The smirk on her face confirmed my suspicions, and I felt the eyes of the entire class on me, including the professor.
My annoyance simmered beneath the surface, but I pushed it aside.
I guess I'll just answer the question and sit back down.
"Very well, Signore Sora, if you will." He requested, to which I stood up. "Tell the class what is the similarity between a quick-play spell and a trap card?"
This should be a cinch.
"Quick-play spells can be activated similarly to a trap card, so that means it can be activated on the opponent's turn. But it also can't be played when it is set on the field in the same turn." I briefly explained.
After all, I did the same exact thing against the examiner back during my exam.
"Well done for a Ra Yellow. It could be better. You may sit." He ordered, with the last few words laced with arrogance, which grated on my nerves.
Pff, he's a prime example of why no one should be promoted.
He exemplifies Obelisk's Blue disdain and dismissiveness for others.
Why would I want to be in a dorm full of people like him?
"We seem to be doing well so far... Let's end this pop quiz by calling on a Slifer Red, shall we?" He snarkily asked as he looked around for a target. "This may spice things up."
His words held a sneering undertone that set the atmosphere on edge.
Syrus seemed to be trembling at the notion that Crowler was prowling, his body language practically screaming anxiety.
"What about you, Slifer Red?" He pointed, which just had to be the boy who was quaking.
Said the boy pointed at himself to make sure that he was chosen for the sacrifice.
"Yes, you. Prepare for the question." He commanded with a cruel glint in his eyes as he saw Syrus nervously stand with visible effort. "Explain to the class what it means to miss an effect's timing."
I winced at the complexity of the question he got, which was something that even some of my fellow Ra Yellows didn't get correct.
Missing an effect's activation isn't really heard of in the more casual side of the games.
But it sometimes makes or breaks the card.
Cards with an effect that starts with an "if" can have their effects go off without a hitch most of the time.
But cards with an effect that starts with a "when" that's when things get a little murky, thus missing the effect timing.
"I-It's uh... It's where you... If you know, when you..." He mumbled, with the majority of his words being inaudible to everyone. "Um, if you sort of..."
His murmuring had caused some of the students to giggle and whisper at him, which had caused his face to flush.
Although I couldn't see, I could tell he was in pain.
Crowler, on the other hand, was grinning at how he was struggling.
"So, you don't know, Slifer Red?" He asked, to which Syrus defeatedly shook his head. "Typical. Slifer Reds are known for being slackers, after all. Leave it to them to mess things up, hmm?"
I balled my fist up and tried my best not to glare at the obnoxious professor.
His words were a jab, a direct insult to Syrus, Jaden, and every Slifer Red student in the hall.
My knuckles turned white as I looked at my desk with heated eyes.
I felt the immense urge to stand up and challenge Crowler's blatant display of cruelty.
But I couldn't.
Speak up! Don't let him talk to your friends like this!
Well, is it worth the risk? What if it makes things worse?
As I battled within myself, Crowler continued his tirade, his words slicing through the air like a finely sharpened blade.
"And this is why you Slifer Red are bottom-run students!" He spat, his voice echoing throughout the room. "Your lack of discipline and knowledge clearly reflects your dorm's reputation. It's a miracle that it hasn't been demolished yet."
This...
This isn't fair!
All of a sudden, a seat flew back.
My eyes were greeted by Jaden standing, his eyes burning with a familiar determination, a challenge.
"Hey, Crowler!" He called out, his voice clear and resounding. "I think you're forgetting something. Didn't I beat you in the entrance exam? And guess what I'm wearing!"
He tugged against his jacket to display its colors proudly.
The room fell into an instant silence, everyone turning their attention towards Jaden.
Crowler seemed to have been taken aback for a moment.
Jaden's reminder was like a slap in the face, an abrupt check on Crowler's condensation.
Just like how it was on the day of the exams, the same feeling of respect emerged towards the Slifer Red duelist.
He had dared to stand up against Duel Academy's finest teachers, speaking up for those that were being wronged.
Class ended shortly after, and Crowler had to wrap things up quickly.
But that look in his eyes...
They were infuriated, and it was something I had seen a long time ago.
Whatever he was planning, it definitely wasn't going to be good.
Anyway, back to the problem at hand.
That being about... her, again.
I mean, I wasn't intentionally avoiding her.
But the problem is, I have been so busy with studying and my school life that I haven't had the-
Oh, who am I kidding?
I am still scared of confronting her!
There are still too many unknowns between us!
The main one is that I have no idea what her deal is!
One day, after coming back from a practice duel I proctored, I found a letter tucked into my locker.
The words were vague, asking to meet at a certain place and talk things out, but the sender was anonymous.
I dismissed the letter because I thought it was a misdirected message meant for someone else.
However, there was a nagging sensation that I knew exactly who it was, but I remained hopeful that it wasn't.
If anything, Rhodes hadn't been giving me the stink eye for a while now, which helped with forgetting it momentarily.
Jeez, I'm such a coward.
Dealing with girls isn't my specialty and never will be.
They are just as confusing as what field spells do.
Days passed, and more letters appeared in my locker, each being vague as the last, asking to meet and talk.
I kept dismissing them with no clear sender or recipient mentioned, thinking they weren't meant for me.
However, this cycle of receiving letters and dismissing them ended abruptly one day after class.
In the form of getting a duel request from... her of all people.
So I simply turned it down and went on my merry day.
It was a bit of a pain to deny the request since I needed to write an essay stating why.
But I think the effort was worth it.
Maybe we can let bygones be bygones with time...
However, that all changed today.
As I left the lecture hall with my friends, I found myself being confronted by Alexis herself, her friends flanking her.
Her eyes were narrowed, and her face showed a clear hint of frustration.
"Why have you been ignoring my letters?" She demanded, crossing her arms.
Her friends stood behind her, their expressions equally stern.
Huh, now that I realize it, this is the first time we've spoken.
Not to mention... she's really pretty.
Well, whatever.
Taken aback, I blinked at her.
"Your letters?" I repeated, trying to understand her accusation.
Is she talking about the weird letters that I've been getting recently?
"Wait, you've been leaving those letters in my locker?"
Recognition dawned on me as I finally understood the situation.
Those letters were from Alexis, and they were for me.
I had promised to apologize, but here I was, having accidentally ignored her attempts to communicate for days.
"I... I didn't realize," I stammered, offering her a sheepish smile. "I'm really sorry, Rhodes. I truly didn't know those letters were from you."
The excuse sounded weak even to my ears, but it was the truth.
Now, it was up to Alexis to decide how she wanted to handle the situation.
A tense silence fell between us as Alexis digested my explanation.
Her stern expression didn't waver, but there was a slight shift in her eyes that hinted she was considering my words.
Finally, she broke the silence.
"Alright, if you didn't know, you didn't know," she said, her voice devoid of any warmth. "But you can make it up to me."
"How?" I dared to ask, feeling my throat go dry.
Her icy gaze fixed onto mine. "A duel."
My heart pounded in my chest.
A duel? With her?
"No, I... I can't," I admitted, my voice sounding smaller than I intended.
Her eyes flashed with something that looked like a disappointment.
"You can't, or you won't?" She challenged.
"I... I'm not ready to... I mean... I need to focus on my studies right now," I stammered, my mind grasping at any excuse that came to mind. "I got other priorities, you know? I want to make something out of myself that can make me feel worthy of people's time... Something to tell others that I work for my dreams. Isn't that what people do? Working towards their dream?"
Despite my words, they felt like excuses to me.
Alexis's stern expression seemed to soften for a moment, replaced with a look that suggested she was trying to understand me.
But just as quickly, it returned with an added coldness.
"Your dueling style might be unique and tricky," she acknowledged a hint of grudging respect in her voice. "I've heard about your duel with the examiner. But when you're faced with a real challenge, you're stepping back. Looks like you're afraid to duel without your tricks. Are you scared they won't hold up when someone's prepared for them? If that's how you plan to duel, maybe you should've looked for a school that appreciated such methods more."
Her words were a punch to the gut.
She was accusing me of being a one-trick pony, relying only on my unusual strategies to win.
She was saying I was afraid to face a straight, honest duel.
"Hey, uh... Lex... That's a little too much don't you think?" I heard Jaden trying to defend, who also felt like he was being attacked.
I felt my face heating up, her words stinging more than I'd like to admit.
I wanted to retaliate, to tell her she was wrong, but my voice caught in my throat.
"I'm not a coward," I managed to assert, though I could hear my voice trembling. "I told you. I just have... different priorities."
She paused, scrutinizing me silently before she finally spoke, "Well, it's clear now. My first impression wasn't wrong."
And with that, she turned away, leaving me alone with her words echoing in my head.
A mix of guilt and anger bubbled within me.
I'm not a coward.
I am not!
Or am I?
Because right now, it really feels like I'm running away.
Suddenly, it felt as if I was indeed running away.
Retreating, hiding, avoiding confrontation at every possible turn, and the realization hit me like a truck.
I clenched my fists, feeling a heat rise in my chest.
It wasn't the scorching fire of embarrassment but rather a simmering determination.
...
I'm not running anymore.
If Alexis saw me as a coward, then I would prove her wrong.
I will confront this duel head-on, no matter the outcome.
I will stand my ground, showing her, the academy, everyone- and most importantly, myself- that I wasn't a coward.
Show them that I could face challenges, even if they seemed insurmountable.
With renewed resolve, I found my determination turning into action, shifting gears from passive avoidance to pragmatic preparation.
I might be stepping into unfamiliar territory but I won't do it as a coward.
The sting of Alexis's words and the defiance in her eyes sparked a flame within me.
A flame that was strangely nostalgic, as if I had once felt this long ago.
It was a sentiment I couldn't let go unanswered, a challenge I couldn't just walk away from.
"Hold on," I found myself calling out, my voice steadier than before, resonating with a newfound determination. "You want a duel? Fine, you've got it. I'll take you on."
Her stride faltered at my declaration, a flicker of surprise crossing her face once she saw my glare.
Her friends glanced at each other, eyebrows raised.
Even Syrus and Jaden, who had been watching the exchange with uneasy expressions, looked shocked.
"I won't hide from a challenge. I'll show you that my strategies aren't just tricks. They're part of who I am as a duelist," I asserted, my heart pounding in my chest. "I'll prove that I'm not the coward you think I am."
I didn't wait for her to respond; I didn't look back for their reactions.
Instead, I turned on my heel, walking away with a purposeful stride, my mind buzzing with a mix of adrenaline and apprehension.
The decision had been made; the gauntlet had been thrown.
Whether I felt fully prepared or not was irrelevant now.
The duel with Alexis was happening, and it was time for me to face the challenge head-on.
My PDA pinged with a message from her, with a simple request to duel her in front of the lighthouse at 8 PM.
"Dudeeee!" I heard Jaden chant, which caused me to whip around in surprise. "You sounded like a hero back there! That was cool!"
I recounted what had happened a few minutes ago and groaned, now realizing what I had said.
"Really? I thought it was... well, cringy. I just felt this fire inside of me, and I couldn't stand it anymore. I wanted to show her that I wasn't a coward, and well... you saw it."
The cheery Slifer Red slung his arm around me.
"Haha! Cringy? Nah, what you said sounded like something out of a comic book! Looks like you have a..."
He rummaged through his deck and pulled out a card waving it at me with a teasing grin.
"A Heated Heart, huh?"
Even though the quip was cheesy, I couldn't help but let out a laugh, which helped ease my nerves.
"Hehe, alright. That's a good one." I admitted, shaking my head in amusement.
Despite the joke's window having ended, he didn't put it away. Instead, he continued to hold it out.
"Wait, is this..."
He nodded, his gaze serious as he offered the card to me, to which I cradled it.
"For real, though, I think this card might come in handy, especially since you sound like one of my hero monsters. I know you can make it work, Sora."
His words took me by surprise, but the sincerity in his voice was genuine.
I gave my friend a warm smile and gave a curt nod.
"Thanks, Jaden. I'll... make this work."
After filling him in on the details of where the duel will be, we parted ways for now.
After my encounter with her, my mind was buzzing with thoughts, strategy, and anxiety.
With the duel challenge accepted, I felt like I had to prepare myself for the upcoming battle, but I had no idea where to start.
Trying to sort out my thoughts, I decided to head back to the dorms.
Lost in my own world, I accidentally wandered into the wrong room.
Instead of finding my bed and my belongings, I found Bastion intensely scribbling away equations on the walls of his room.
What the-!
Startled, I blurted out, "Misawa, what on earth are you doing?"
Jolted out of his thoughts, Bastion turned to face me, a look of pure surprise on his face.
"Sora?! I...I..." He stammered, seeming to realize the strange scene he was part of. "Oh! Right, my equations. I sometimes find it easier to visualize my thoughts on a larger canvas."
Seeing the myriad of equations on the wall, I raised an eyebrow in curiosity.
"That's... quite a way to study," I remarked, stepping further into the room. "Ever think of having an actual canvas in here?"
Bastion gave me an embarrassed chuckle, scratching the back of his head.
"Right, well... I got carried away. It slipped my mind." he confessed before walking over to his desk and picking up a book. "Here, take a look at this."
He handed me a book filled to the brim with mathematical formulas and explanations. The sight of it only reaffirmed my belief that Bastion was indeed a genius.
Noticing the bewildered expression on my face, Bastion quickly assured me, "Oh, don't worry. You won't need to know all this for dueling. It's just my way of understanding the world, one equation at a time."
Despite his reassurance, seeing his work's complexity and dedication toward it, I couldn't help but feel a bit more anxious about my preparation for the upcoming duel with Alexis.
"Sora? You look... conflicted. What's going on?" he asked, setting down his pen and focusing his attention on me.
"Well, I...," I started, hesitating before finally deciding to tell him the truth. "I challenged Alexis to a duel."
Bastion blinked, taken aback.
"You did what? I didn't expect this from you, Sora, considering how you well... don't go out of your way to trouble others."
"Yeah, well...," I mumbled, scratching the back of my head awkwardly. "I guess I just got fed up with her always looking at me like that like she's got something against me."
I recounted the day's events, explaining how Alexis had been singling me out since our first meeting at the entrance exam.
Bastion's brows furrowed as I spoke, concern etching lines onto his usually calm face.
"Hmm... that does sound unsettling," he mused. "She's a tough duelist, Sora. Are you sure you want to go through with this?"
I nodded, determination flaring in my chest. "Yes, I have to do this, Bastion. I need to show her and myself that I'm not a coward."
Bastion gave me a contemplative look before nodding slowly. "Alright, if you're sure about this, Sora. But you should know Alexis isn't one to be taken lightly. You'll need to prepare for this duel, both in terms of strategy and deck composition."
A grateful smile tugged at my lips as I nodded at Bastion. "Thanks, Bastion. I really appreciate your support."
Bastion simply gave me an encouraging smile. "Of course, Sora. That's what friends are for, after all. Let's see if we can give your deck a boost."
With that, we dove into the world of deck editing; our heads bent over my deck as we strategized and contemplated each card's potential.
This duel was more than just a challenge—it was a declaration of my courage, and I was going to give it everything I had.
"We need to reconsider your deck, Sora," Bastion suggested, surveying my collection of cards spread out on the table. "Your milling strategy is quite unique, and it's been effective so far. However, against Alexis, I believe it might need some slight adjustments."
I watched as Bastion sifted through the pile of cards with careful precision.
With his analytical mind and thorough knowledge of the game, I knew he was the best person to help me prepare for this duel.
"Your deck already has a good number of traps and spells. Needle Worm, Morphing Jar, and Cyber Jar are quite effective for a mill strategy," Bastion mused, placing those cards aside. "But against Alexis, we might need to add a few more high-stat attack monsters for defense and offense."
I nodded in agreement; his point made sense.
"Well, I haven't seen her duel before. You?" I asked, to which he shook his head.
"Same here. So we will need to improvise. Can you tell me anything about her personality? Her demeanor during the... confrontation you two had?"
I rubbed my chin in thought as I went back to what happened before.
Each recollection was painful as the last.
"If I had to say, she comes off as very determined, assertive. I mean, she had to get my dumbass attention. If I had to guess, she's probably an aggressive player that makes plays after disrupting the opponent. Just like... how she provoked me."
Bastion nodded as he took my thoughts into account.
"I see. Let's see what we can do."
Digging into his collection, Bastion pulled out a Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke card. "This should provide a strong offensive front and can immediately destroy any face-up Defense Position monsters," he said, adding it to my deck. "And for monster removal... how about Smashing Ground?"
As we continued refining the deck, I remembered the card Jaden had given me earlier - H- Heated Heart. I pulled it out of my pocket and showed it to Bastion.
"Jaden thought this might be useful," I explained. "He gave it to me after he saw it all godown."
Bastion examined the card closely, a thoughtful expression on his face. "This is an excellent choice, Sora," he finally said. "H- Heated Heart is perfect for giving your monsters a power boost and inflicting piercing damage. We're definitely including it."
After some more strategic planning and rearranging, we finally refined a deck that seemed ready for the upcoming challenge. I thanked Bastion profusely for his help.
"Thanks, Bastion," I expressed sincerely. "I really couldn't have done this without you."
Bastion just smiled, brushing off my gratitude. "Don't mention it, Sora. We're in this together, after all."
Before I could invite him to come to watch the duel, Bastion stifled a yawn and pushed back from the table. "I think I'll head off to bed now, Sora. All this strategizing has really worn me out."
I chuckled, respecting his decision. "Of course, Bastion. Get some good rest. You've earned it."
With my newly revised deck in hand and the feeling of readiness in my heart, I was set for the duel against Alexis.
The challenge was intimidating, thanks to Bastion and Jaden, but I felt prepared.
All that remained now was to face the duel head-on.
As I approached the predetermined spot, the silhouette of the lighthouse loomed above me, casting long, ominous shadows.
There was a sense of anticipation hung heavily in the air.
Alexis stood a short distance away, her friends Jasmine and Mindy flanking her.
Jeez, does she always have her posse with her?
As I got closer, Jasmine sneered at my arrival.
"So, the little Ra Yellow actually showed up," She taunted, her words dripping with mockery.
My neutral expression darkened with the discriminatory remark.
Before I could respond, Alexis cut her off, her gaze unwaveringly locked onto mine.
"Enough, Jasmine. He showed up, didn't he?" She said, the tone of her voice now noticeably lighter. "That's commendable."
Feeling a sudden surge of confidence, I straightened up, meeting her gaze head-on.
"I'm not here to be commended," I retorted firmly, "I'm here to prove a point."
I reached for my Duel Disk, ready to start the duel, but a chorus of panting and footsteps caught our attention.
We turned to see Jaden and Syrus, both out of breath, with a sleep-deprived Bastion trailing behind, a cup of coffee in his hand.
"Phew! We made it just in time!" Jaden exclaimed, grinning despite his heavy panting. "Ain't that right, Sy?"
The turquoise-haired Slifer Red rubbed his eyes and groaned.
"You know, it would be nice if you gave me a heads up, Jaden. I had no idea there was going to be a duel this late!"
Bastion just sighed, taking another gulp from his coffee cup.
"Hah... I knew about this, and I wanted to get some sleep. But he wouldn't let me fall asleep." He uttered, shooting a peeved glance at the sheepish Jaden, then smirked in my direction. "Can't let you have all the fun now, isn't that right, Sora? In retrospect, it would be fun to see our deck theory in action."
I was surprised but grateful for their support.
This feeling in my heart...
So this is what friendship feels like...
I gave them a nod, appreciative of their effort to be here.
"So... shall we get this duel started, Rhodes?" I asked, turning my attention back to her.
Instead of giving me the same glare or frown, she instead smirked.
"Yeah, let's do this."
Without any further interruption, our duel finally began.
"Duel!" She shouted as we both activated our duel disks, projecting the familiar green-tinged grid onto the field.
(Alexis 4000/Kazuyuki 4000)
Just like on the day of the exams, I felt a jolt of excitement travel through my veins as my Duel Disk responded in kind, both of our life points setting to 4000.
Alexis went first, her hand glowing as her disk dispensed five cards into it.
"I'll go first! I draw!" She declared as she drew another card.
Whatever she drew transformed that smirk into a smile.
"I summon Etoile Cyber(1200/1600) in attack mode!"
Huh, did I see that card before?
Meh, whatever.
A bright light flashed, and the form of a slender, elegant ballet dancer materialized on her field.
The monster struck a graceful pose, her pink tutu and flowing hair glistening in the artificial light.
Damn, there's a reason why she played that monster in attack mode...
"I then set two cards face down and end my turn," Alexis concluded, flicking two more cards onto her Duel Disk.
The cards flickered into existence behind her monster, which ensured its protection.
I knew it.
She set defenses up in case I get aggressive.
But I can't be on the defensive like I usually am, so I need to push forward!
Alexis was waiting, gauging, readying to counter anything I threw at her.
"I draw!" I declared, pulling the top card from my deck into my hand.
My heart pounded in my chest as I looked at the card, H-Heated Heart, the card that Jaden gave me.
With newfound determination, I smirked slightly. "I summon Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke(1800/1000) in attack position," I announced, placing the monster card onto my Duel Disk.
In response, a holographic projection of a powerful ninja, cloaked in shadows and wielding twin blades, materialized on the field.
He wasn't as flashy or glamorous as Alexis's Etoile Cyber, but he had a formidable presence of his own.
"I set two cards face-down," I added, placing two more cards onto my Duel Disk.
Two face-down cards appeared behind Sasuke, their identities a mystery to my opponent.
The onlookers, including Alexis, seemed somewhat taken aback by my relatively passive play.
This was no doubt different from the aggressive, fast-paced duels they were used to seeing.
Nonetheless, I was satisfied with my setup.
It was a solid defense, and it gave me room to adapt to Alexis's next moves.
"That ends my turn," I concluded, a surge of anticipation coursing through me.
Alexis stared back at me, her earlier confidence slightly shaken as it was her turn to respond.
And I, for one, was eager to see what she would do next.
There's no way I am going to attack just yet.
I know she's planning something.
The real duel was just getting started.
She gritted her teeth and returned the same glare she was infamous for.
Ugh, what's her deal?!
I still don't know why she's ticked off at me!
The tension heightened as she picked up the top card from her deck, holding it up for a moment before glancing at it.
"Going back to using your tricks, huh? Well, good thing I planned ahead! I draw!" she announced, pulling a card from her deck.
A confident smile spread across her face as she looked at the drawn card, then her eyes flicked up to meet mine.
"I activate the Field Spell card, Cyber Ballet!" she announced, placing the card on the side of her Duel Disk.
My body tensed up with the card she just played.
"Wait, what?!" I shouted.
Suddenly, a dazzling light enveloped her side of the field, blinding my eyes.
As the light dimmed, a field spell materialized around Etoile Cyber (1200-1800/1600), creating an enchanting stage.
Her monster then performed a graceful twirl, evoking a rhythmic beat that echoed around us.
"Cyber Ballet allows my Cyber Ladies to attack this turn directly! And guess what? Etoile Cyber's one of them!" she explained, her confident grin widening. "And because she can attack directly, she gets a nice bump in attack points!"
I never heard of a card like that before!
Without wasting any time, she declared her attack, "Etoile Cyber, attack Sora directly with Digital Nova Strike!"
"Uh, oh! Sora's gonna take one heck of a hit!" Syrus cried.
"No... He's not. Watch." Bastion replied as he took another sip of his coffee.
As her monster charged towards me, I responded by flipping one of my face-down cards, "I activate my Trap card, Defense Draw!"
"This trap card allowed me to negate the damage I would receive and draw a card."
The monster's attack fizzled out, and I drew a card from my deck.
However, Alexis was undeterred, "Hmph. I summon Blade Skater in attack position and end my turn!"
A new monster appeared on her field, a warrior on skates with blades gleaming under the virtual spotlights.
Her turn concluded with an implicit challenge, her monsters poised for the next round of attack.
My mind spun with potential strategies as I watched the opposing monsters, anticipation coiling in my stomach.
"I draw!" I declared, and a new card was added to my hand.
Glancing at my newly drawn card, a plan began to formulate in my mind.
That Cyber Ballet is going to be a huge problem if I don't take it out now.
"I activate the Spell card Mystical Space Typhoon! With this, I can destroy one Spell or Trap Card on the field." I called out, locking onto Alexis' field spell.
The card on her field shimmered for a moment before being engulfed in a stormy holographic vortex, eliminating Cyber Ballet from the field.
Alexis gritted her teeth but didn't comment, her gaze remaining unfazed.
With the threat of her trap out of the way, I turned my attention back to the battlefield.
"Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke, attack Etoile Cyber!" I commanded. "With... with um..."
I turned to my friends for help, with Syrus and Bastion being clueless.
Jaden, on the other hand, knew what attack to use.
"Shadow Sword Strike! Come on, man! Having cool names for your monsters' attacks is the fun part!" He shouted.
The ninja leaped into action on Jaden's command, launching himself at the balletic monster.
As Sasuke launched his attack, Alexis responded.
"I activate my trap card, Doble Passe! This makes your attack a direct attack instead and allows my card to attack directly too! And guess what?! Etoile's effect also triggers as well!"
Her trap activated, causing my attack to bypass her Etoile Cyber and strike her Life Points directly.
"Ghh...!" She hissed as the ninja sliced past her.
On the other hand, her monster twirled and gave me a spinning backheel kick.
Although it didn't hit me, I felt the wind being sliced by the attack, which made me flinch.
"Umph!"
(Alexis 2200/Kazuyuki 2200)
After the exchange of attacks, we were both left panting, our Life Points now even.
Her gaze, which had been stern until now, seemed to flicker with respect.
Just as I was about to end my turn, I caught Alexis' gaze, and a question that had been lingering in my mind rose to the surface.
I think I should ask.
"Rhodes," I began, my voice steady despite the rapid pounding of my heart. "Why are you so... against me? What did I do? We didn't meet before, did we?"
Her gaze, which had been cool and focused throughout the duel, hardened.
But there was something else there too.
A spark of curiosity, perhaps?
"I'm only here to teach you a lesson." She dismissed, her eyes narrowing at the cards in her hand. "Besides, it doesn't matter."
She thinks it doesn't matter?!
I had to deal with her stink eyes, her endless letters, and a duel request?!
And she has the nerve not to tell me?!
No way she's getting off that easily!
I glared at her as my patience was starting to wear thin.
"No, I think it matters!" I exclaimed, my anger starting to boil. "You owe me for giving in to your challenge. So, tell me!"
Her face stiffened, and her eyes widened by my volatile words before giving me the icy stare she had given me for a few weeks.
I fired back with the same look, filled with heat and passion.
After a brief moment of silence, she relented.
"The entrance exam," She finally spat out, her voice laced with immense venom. "Your... playstyle. It was unlike anything I've ever seen before. It was... unsettling. It went against everything I believed in. I thought it was an... affront to everything I knew."
A shiver of understanding ran down my spine.
The entrance exam?
Does she mean when I decked out the examiner?
I had used an unorthodox strategy to win my duel, something that didn't align with the noble spirit of dueling Alexis believed in.
"What are you talking about?" I asked, the weight of her words settling in. "I... I was just dueling the way I thought was best. The only way I know how. It's part of my strategy."
She scoffed, crossing her arms over her chest.
"Yeah, your... strategy." She emphasized the word as if it left a sour taste in her mouth. "It's an insult to how dueling should be. You treated your cards like tools and saw dueling as a means to an end, not as something to express yourself."
"I... see," I said slowly, trying to process her words.
"And that's why I challenged you," she continued, her gaze never leaving mine. "I want to show you what dueling is truly about. That it's not all about tricks and strategies, it's a test of skill to show others a duelist's spirit and resolve. And most importantly, it's about trusting in your deck and your cards."
Her declaration hung in the air, punctuating the tension that had built up between us.
And with that, I knew what I had to do.
With a frown, I crossed my arms as well.
"You know what, Alexis?" I retorted, meeting her stern gaze head-on. "You make a good point. But the thing is, this is how I duel. This is my way! And I'm not going to change that just to fit your ideals!"
I saw her taken aback slightly, perhaps not expecting my defiant stand.
But it didn't matter.
"Let's do this. I'll set one card and end my turn," I concluded, setting a card onto my duel disk.
Despite the major setback, I felt a rush of satisfaction.
Alexis was a strong duelist, no doubt about it, but I am holding my ground.
Obviously, she wasn't thrilled with my response, but it was my truth.
This duel was no longer a contest of skills but a clash of convictions.
The atmosphere was palpable as Alexis reached for her deck, a single card wedged between her fingers.
Her gaze was as steely and unwavering as ever.
"Fine. Have it your way. I draw!" she announced, pulling the card from her deck.
It was a swift, precise motion; her eyes flickered briefly, a spark of satisfaction igniting in them.
"I think it's time to end this! I'm activating a spell card," she stated, flipping the card onto her duel disk, "Polymerization!"
In the span of a heartbeat, the field was bathed in a dazzling burst of radiant light.
Alexis's voice cut through the vibrant display like a razor, eclipsing the lighthouse's dim glow.
"I fuse my Etoile Cyber and Blade Dancer on the field! Radiant fusion of light, coverage now, with power shining bright! Combine the grace of a warrior's blade with the strength of machines; I summon you, Cyber Blader! (2100/800)"
The air around the two designated monsters began to warp and ripple, the light bending in ways that defied logic.
It was a fascinating spectacle, watching the two creatures twist, contort and blend; when the radiant light finally dimmed and faded, a new entity had emerged from the raw elemental energy.
Standing amidst its predecessor's remains was a warrior exuding a formidable aura, Cyber Blader.
Alexis was visibly more relaxed, her smirk never wavering.
"Cyber Blader possesses a unique ability," she began, her tone full of self-assured confidence. "Since you only have one monster on your field, Cyber Blader can't be destroyed in battle."
"What?! That's nuts!" Syrus lamented. "How's Sora going to get rid of it now?!"
My heart sank at her declaration, and with Syrus's comment, her Cyber Blader was a significant threat, especially under the current circumstances.
And then came the attack command, "Cyber Blader, attack Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke!" Alexis' voice resonated in the quiet night air, firm and resolute.
Her warrior responded immediately, crying defiantly as it charged toward my Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke.
The collision was inevitable, and within seconds, my monster was wiped off the field in a blinding flash of light and energy.
The resulting impact wasn't just on the battlefield; it hit me, too, a direct blow that cost me precious life points.
(Alexis 2200/Sora 1900)
As the dust settled, Alexis confidently declared the end of her turn, crossing her arms over her chest and leaning back, a picture of supreme confidence. "I end my turn."
The conclusion of her move sent a clear message. Alexis was still a formidable opponent and was still very much in control.
The power dynamic on the field had shifted significantly in her favor, and the pressure on me was mounting.
But this wasn't the time to buckle under pressure. This was far from over.
A quiet lull fell upon the field as the tension between us palpably mounted, broken only by the distant crashing of waves against the shore.
Under the revolving beacon of the lighthouse, Alexis' eyes, steely and unwavering, were boring into mine.
"So, you think you can duel with 'your way'?" Her words cut through the silence like a finely honed blade. "Your way has gotten you on the back foot."
A frosty edge to her voice made the ambient temperature feel a couple of degrees colder.
Her words hit me hard, a stinging slap to my principles and my view of dueling.
My fingers clenched around the deck in my hand, the edges of the cards digging into my skin.
Despite the knot of mixed emotions her words evoked within me - frustration, guilt, defiance - I stood my ground.
I was not about to back down, not now.
With a steely resolve set in my heart and a fierce determination coursing through my veins, I looked directly at her.
"Argh! I'll show you! This duel is not over!"
"Man! Sora's sounding more and more like a hero!" Jaden cheered. "But... they both make really good points about dueling."
Syrus looked at his friend with slight confusion.
"You care about that stuff, Jaden?" He asked.
The brown-haired Slifer Red nodded.
"Yeah. On the one hand, Lex wants to show that dueling is about having will and soul. But on the other, Sora believes dueling is about who he is. His heart, his hopes, his way of dueling..." He seriously noted.
"Maybe they both have a point." A voice added.
Syrus looked to whoever just spoke, and his eyes widened in surprise.
"Z-Zane?! What are you doing here, big bro?!" Syrus exclaimed, his face turning a shade paler.
He simply rolled his eyes.
"I've been here, Syrus. Even before you guys showed up."
Even Jaden seemed surprised, although he was trying to hide it behind his usual grin.
Bastion, having been on the verge of falling asleep, now was wide-awake.
"Zane Truesdale... The Kaiser of Duel Academy." He uttered, clearly impressed. "I didn't expect to see you here."
The older Truesdale shrugged as he continued to watch the ongoing duel.
"Alexis told me that she had a duel with an 'annoying jerk,' so I thought it would be interesting to see how it played out," He explained calmly and measuredly. "But as for your discussion... both of them have valid points. Dueling is about expressing yourself, your strategy, your spirit, and your will. But at the same time, it's also about believing in yourself and the cards you hold."
Jaden frowned at the harsh name Alexis used on his friend, which Zane sensed.
"If there is anything to note, it's that Alexis usually isn't like this. She had one duel that traumatized her as a kid, and Sora's playstyle happened to resemble that. It went against everything she believed in."
He crossed his arms and turned his gaze to us, clearly in thought.
"Still, in the end... it's about finding the right balance between the two. This duel might show them that."
Book of Moon, huh?
If I can bring back Sasuke, then I can flip Blade Dancer face-down, and then...
Hmm...
"Oh wow~! Is it me, or are things starting to heat up here~?!" The soft-spoken girl suddenly squealed.
That's... Mindy, right?
What I assumed to be the other girl, Jasmine, simply shook her head and rolled her eyes.
"It's definitely you, Mindy. Alexis is going to crush that Yellow."
Ugh, I need to focus!
This plan needs to work!
"From the field, I activate Call of The Haunted! With that, I'll bring back Sasuke!"
A spectral chain shot out from my Duel Disk, spiraling into the air before plunging back down into my Graveyard slot.
In a burst of light, the ghostly figure of my Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke reappeared on my field.
But I wasn't done yet.
"Next, I activate Book of Moon!" I called out, slapping the Spell Card onto my Duel Disk. "This allows me to change your Cyber Blader to face-down Defense Position!"
With that, Cyber Blader was flipped over, now vulnerable for the time being.
"Alright, now I'll use my Spell card Jaden gave me, H- Heated Heart! This card gives my Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke an extra 500 ATK, and if he attacks a Defense Position monster, you'll take piercing damage!"
"Haha! Alright!" Jaden cheered as I slid the Spell card onto my Duel Disk, setting the field ablaze.
The flames enveloped my Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke, his figure radiating with an intense glow.
The heat wave then rushed over Alexis's field, causing her to brace herself against it.
"Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke, attack her Cyber Blader!" I ordered, pointing at her monster. "Shadow Sword Strike!"
Empowered by the H- Heated Heart, my monster's blade sliced through her defense position monster, the flames sparking on impact.
But it wasn't enough to destroy the monster as it simply winced in pain and shook it off.
However, the backlash caused Alexis to stumble backward, clutching her Duel Disk.
"Awesome play, Sora!" Jaden exclaimed, his fist pumping in the air. "That's the way to use H-Heated Heart!"
From the sideline, I could see the numbers on Alexis's Duel Disk decreasing rapidly, landing at 700 life points.
(Alexis 700/Sora 1900)
This is my chance.
It's my time to take the lead.
"And with that, I end my turn," I concluded.
Let's see how she'll respond to that.
The Obelisk Blue student still had the same icy look as she placed her fingers on her deck.
"It's my turn; I draw!" She announced, her voice steady and resolute. "First, I'll equip my Cyber Blader with Raregold Armor. This makes her the only monster you can target for attacks, but that's not all! She also can't be destroyed by spells!"
Wait that doesn't sound right!
Since when did Raregold Armor protect against Spells?!
Her Cyber Blader gleamed anew, the golden armor reflecting the moonlight and making her monster seem almost untouchable.
The change in power was palpable as the armored glowed with a bluish effect, indicating its immunity.
"Next, I summon Cyber Tutu(1000/800) in attack position in Attack Mode! She declared, placing the card onto her disk.
A small, tutu-clad figure emerged from the card, twirling and giving me a taunting wink.
"And since you have a monster that's stronger than mine on the field, Cyber Tutu can attack you directly! Go attack him directly with Ballet Blitz!"
The tutu-clad figure leaped through the air with a dancer's grace, artfully dodging my monster's swords, and landed a swift, powerful kick.
I grimaced as my Life Points fell.
(Alexis 700/Sora 900)
"And now, Cyber Blader, break through his defense!" Alexis called out, now ready to attack my monster.
Now!
"Don't even think about it, Rhodes!" I interjected, with a smirk creeping onto my face. "I activate a Quick-Play Spell! Enemy Controller! I can switch your Cyber Blader into Defense Mode!"
Her attack halted, her fusion monster now kneeling in defense mod.
Alexis simply looked annoyed but masked it with an unreadable expression. "In that case, I set one card and end my turn."
She set a card onto her Duel Disk, her movements calculated and controlled.
The duel wasn't over yet, but it very well may be.
"Uh, oh! If Sora doesn't deal with the monsters, it's game over for him!" Syrus cried.
Yeah, I figured...
"Nah, he's got this! After all, he knew when to play my card!" Jaden countered. "He just needs another monster card, and it'll be good!"
I looked over and saw Bastion with another guy watching my duel with intense focus.
Who's that guy?
That doesn't matter...
I need to draw the right card...
Without announcing my draw, I looked at the card.
Feeling the weight of the duel, I paused, reflecting on the turn of events. With just a few life points left and facing an opponent who was convinced of the superiority of her approach, the odds seemed stacked against me.
But... I knew I had to continue fighting.
"Rhodes," I began, meeting her gaze with determination, "you're right about one thing. Dueling isn't just about tricks or strategies. It's about willpower... It's about showing that you have the will to push onwards and take the steps into the unknown."
A flicker of surprise crossed her features at my words, but she remained silent, awaiting my next move.
"But that doesn't mean my way of dueling is wrong," I continued, "My way, it might not be as grand or as noble as yours, but it's mine. It's what I believe in. And I'm going to stand by it."
A newfound resolve surged within me, giving me the strength to fight back. The duel wasn't over yet.
"Maybe... you're right in a way. Everyone has their own form of dueling, but it all depends on their perspective. Still, I'm not giving up just yet. I still believe in my beliefs too!"
A small smile tugged at the corners of my lips as I extended my hand to draw my next card. "Right back at you! So, I'm not giving up, not yet. Because as long as I have even a single life point left, the duel is not over!"
I drew my card, the feeling of the cardboard cool in my hand. I glanced at it, and a spark of hope ignited within me.
This is...
My lips turned into a smile as I saw what I drew.
Alright, old timer...
Ready for another duel?
"It's time to end this! I summon La Jinn, the Mystical Genie of the Lamp(1800/1000), in attack mode!" I declared, placing the card on my Duel Disk.
A swirl of smoke erupted from the card, and in a flash of light, the imposing figure of the genie appeared.
With Sasuke and La Jinn both ready for battle, it was time to turn the tides of the duel.
Ugh, damn!
She has a set card down; for all I know, it can be Magical Cylinder!
No, I have to take that chance!
If I don't attack, the next turn will be curtains!
Just need to... step into the unknown.
"Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke, attack Cyber Blader with Shadow Sword Strike!" I commanded. "And since your fusion monster's on Defense Mode, his effect activates and destroys your monster!"
With a swift and precise strike, Sasuke's blade cut through the equipped Cyber Blader, its effect ensuring the destruction of the monster.
Alexis could only watch in shock as her monster was destroyed, leaving her with only Cyber Tutu on the field.
With a focused stare, I looked at Alexis, who pretty much had accepted what was going to happen next.
"You're right, Rhodes. Spirit does play a part in duels. Thanks... thanks for teaching me that."
For a brief moment, her cold gaze softened to show a little bit of warmth.
"I'm glad I got my point across your thick skull. Now finish the duel already." She stated, without a hint of malice in her voice.
"La Jinn, attack Cyber Tutu directly with Lamp Burst Stream! Show her that I will duel my way!"
Yeah, that sounds way cooler than Mystical Blast.
La Jinn let out an amused chuckle and sent a burst of energy directly at Cyber Tutu.
The attack hit, causing Alexis to flinch as her Life Points dropped to zero.
And with that, the duel was over.
(Alexis 0/Sora 900)
(Kazuyuki Wins.)
Despite the intense battle, a feeling of satisfaction washed over me.
This was my duel, my way. And I had proven my point.
"I couldn't have said it any better, Sora." Jaden's voice echoed. His excitement was palpable in the cool night air. "That's the spirit! Dueling is about self-expression! It's about showing who you are!"
Beside him, Syrus looked on in awe. His eyes were wide with admiration as he watched the conclusion of the duel.
"Dude, that was awesome!" he exclaimed, his words heavy with admiration.
Even the usually stoic Bastion had to admit, "That was...impressive. An unexpected turn of events, but an interesting outcome nonetheless."
I grinned, my heart filling with pride and relief.
I had won the duel, but more than that, I had stood my ground and fought for what I believed in.
The duel had been a test of my will and my beliefs.
And in the end, it was my spirit that led me to victory.
The cheers of my friends echoed in the still night, their excitement fueling the elation that was already bubbling within me.
I was brought back from my reverie by Alexis's voice, "Hey, that was... a good duel."
Her gaze had a new respect; her cold demeanor softened ever so slightly.
"Yeah," I replied, looking at her, my voice laced with sincerity. "It was a good duel. You're an amazing duelist, Rhodes."
A small smile formed on her face, "And you... you're not as much of a coward as I thought."
I laughed at her words, feeling the tension between us dissipate.
"Not much, huh?"
We might have had our differences, but we both respected each other's dueling styles.
In the end, it wasn't just about winning or losing.
It was about respecting each other as duelists, about understanding that everyone had their own unique way of dueling.
The night sky seemed brighter than before as I looked up at the stars, my heart filled with a newfound sense of determination.
This was my way of dueling.
It was unconventional and different, but it was mine.
And I wouldn't change it for the world.
"That was an impressive duel," a calm, collected voice noted, its tone bearing an unmistakable note of approval.
We turned to see an older, blue-haired duelist approaching us, his face stoic and his blue eyes piercing.
Even without recognizing him, his presence's aura told me he was no ordinary duelist.
He was clearly in Obelisk Blue, but something different about him.
Something that differentiated him from the rest.
Other than his senior coat, this regal sense was coming from him.
Something that was earned through sheer power.
"Sora, Alexis, you both showed your resolve in this duel. Your contrasting philosophies brought out an intense battle," he started, his voice steady and powerful.
"Alexis, you believe in the artistry of dueling, the spirituality that the cards provide. Sora, you believe in expressing yourself through your strategy and adapting to situations. Both views have their merits."
He gave us a nod of acknowledgment before turning his gaze to me, "You might not follow the traditional norms of dueling, but your style is unique. You managed to prove that there is no single right way to duel. Everyone has their own path."
The words hit home, validating my beliefs.
Coming from him, they held an even greater significance.
As he began to walk away, he added, "Remember, no matter what anyone else says, stick to your guns. Your way of dueling might be unconventional, but it's a reflection of who you are."
With those parting words, he walked away, leaving us with a newfound sense of respect and understanding.
AN: That's all for chapter 3. In the next chapter, I will focus on the mysterious entity from the first chapter and its relationship with the other powers. Though, I am unsure if I should start writing it since I'm kind of walking blind without any feedback. Still, thanks for the follows and favorites. I'll try my best to write for you guys.
See you in the next one.