Yu-Gi-Oh Vrains: Advent of New Beginnings

by donkeyboy100

Sequel to Circuit of Smiles. Months have passed since Yuji, Ena, along with their counterparts, Yuya and Zuzu put a stop to Roget's plans and saved LINK VRAINS. However, a new mysterious group has come along that plans to eliminate LINK VRAINS Top 10 to take control of SOL Technologies. Can Storm Rider and his friends stop this new enemy without the aid of their counterparts?

35. Secret Mission

Donkeyboy100 is here with Chapter 35. I apologize for the delayed releases, but I had much on my plate with work. I had to take a break to focus on mental health. Once I did, I decided to step down from my manager position. Hopefully, I will have more time to work on this story!

At Clover City's Orphanage, in the late afternoon...

"Duel!" Yuji and Scarlett shouted.

Yuji: 4000 LP

Scarlett: 4000 LP

"Ladies first," Yuji said.

"You're too kind," Scarlett responded, taking a card from her hand. "I Set a monster, and then I place one card face-down. With that, I end my turn."

"Eh?" Lily wondered. "That's all? I suspected Scarlett would do much more."

"There must be some reason behind her small play." Skye reasoned. "Either way, we'll find out soon enough."

"This is most certainly a trap, but hesitating won't get me anywhere…" Yuji muttered. "As such, it's my turn! I draw! First, I activate the Spell Card: Unexpected Dai, which allows me to Special Summon a Level 4 or lower Normal Monster from my Deck as long as I don't control any monsters! Come, Alexandrite Dagon!"

A winged, majestic dragon with jewels embedded in its scales appeared in Attack Position.

Alexandrite Dragon ATK 2000 DEF 100 LVL: 4

"Next, I summon Vanguard of the Dragon."

A grey-skinned humanoid wingless dragon wielding a shield and spear appeared in Attack Position.

Vanguard of the Dragon ATK 1700 DEF 1300 LVL: 4

"And I'll activate its effect!" Yuji declared. "By discarding one Dragon monster from my hand, it gains 300 attack points!"

After sending the card of his choice to the Graveyard, Vanguard roared as its muscles expanded from the boost.

Vanguard of the Dragon ATK 1700→2000

"Two monsters with 2000 attack points each," Theodore remarked. "Yuji is as ruthless as ever."

"Battle!" Yuji exclaimed. "Vanguard of the Dragon attacks your face-down monster! Vanguard Slash!"

The humanoid dragon rushed forward, impaling Scarlett's face-down monster, which was revealed to be an elven woman dressed as a mage with white feathers around her neck.

"My Set monster is Featherizer!" Scarlett said.

Featherizer ATK 700 DEF 1100 LVL: 3

"And at this moment, its effect activates," Scarlett stated. "When this card is destroyed by battle and sent to the Graveyard, I can send one Gemini Monster from my Deck to the Graveyard to draw a card."

After a quick search through her Deck, Scarlett selected her card, sent it to the Graveyard, and drew another.

"Gemini?" Ena muttered. "So that means she's using a Gemini Deck?"

"That's right," Robin confirmed. "As I'm assuming that all of you are aware, Gemini Monsters is a subtype that all share a unique special effect. The effect states that they're treated as Normal Monsters on the field and in the Graveyard. However, their effects can only be unlocked by Normal Summoning them once again while on the field."

"Which means they take two whole turns to activate their second effects," Nina continued. "That's why no one with half a brain cell in their heads ever uses Gemini cards. They take too long to work. But Scarlett believed they had potential and took it upon herself to create a Gemini Deck that would be able to win duels."

"And has she won duels with it?" Lily asked.

"Of course," Robin answered. "Round about 30."

Theodore's eyes widened. "30 duels!?"

"If she's won that many duels with that Deck, then it's safe to say that this duel will be more difficult than Yuji thought," Skye stated.

"It's still too early to make assumptions, " Ena said. "Let's continue watching and see what happens."

Scarlett narrowed her eyes. "So, Yuji. Do you have anything else for me?"

"Just this," Yuji replied as he gestured to his field. "Alexandrite Dragon attacks you directly!"

The dragon flew up and fired a stream of fire at Scarlett.

"I activate the Trap Card: Negate Attack!" Scarlett abruptly declared. "This card negates your attack, then ends the Battle Phase!"

A barrier appeared before Scarlett, with the flames striking it but failing to break through.

Yuji raised an eyebrow. "Not to be rude, Scarlett, but why would you wait until my second attack before using that card? You could've kept your monster from being destroyed."

"Why would I want that?" Scarlett pointed out. "If Featherizer hadn't been destroyed, I wouldn't have gotten a free draw out of it."

"Guess that makes sense," Yuji said. "Since I'm out of attacks, I'll place two cards face-down and end my turn."

"In that case, it's my turn!" Scarlett announced. "I draw! First, I activate the Spell Card: Pot of Greed to draw two cards from my Deck. Then, I summon Evocator Eveque!"

A warrior clad in red armor, with a cape and helmet wielding a scimitar, appeared in Attack Position.

Evocator Chevalier ATK 1900 DEF 900 LVL: 4

"Following that, I activate the Equip Spell Card: Supervise and equip it to Chevalier!" Scarlett continued as a flash of light illuminated the young warrior, and its left arm was engulfed with flames. "While equipped to a Gemini Monster, that monster is treated as an Effect Monster. And do you know what that means?"

"Oh, I do, I do!" Nina shouted from the side. "You can now use Evocator Chevalier's effect!"

"Give the girl a medal!" Scarlett grinned. "Now, since I've changed Chevalier into an Effect Monster, I think I'll activate its effect. So, by sending an Equip Card I control to the Graveyard, I can destroy any card on your field. I send Supervise to the Graveyard to destroy one of your face-down cards. And I'll choose the one on the left!"

The warrior raised its flaming hand as it conjured a blazing fireball, which it threw at Yuji's face-down card.

"In that case, I'll get rid of it for you!" Yuji said. "I activate the Trap Card: Destruct Potion! Thanks to its effect, I can destroy a monster on my field and gain Life Points equal to its attack points! I choose to destroy Vanguard of the Dragon and gain 2000 Life Points!"

Following Yuji's words, Vanguard's body exploded, with its remains turning into a dark haze that enveloped his body.

Yuji: 4000→6000 LP

Scarlett raised an eyebrow. "Why would you play a card that destroys your monster?"

"Because when a card effect destroys Vanguard of the Dragon, it causes its second effect to activate!" Yuji explained. "Thanks to it, I can Special Summon a Dragon Normal Monster from my Graveyard!"

Scarlett's eyes widened. "What!?"

"You heard me. Rise, Seiyaryru!"

Following Yuji's declaration, a bright light shone from his field, with a large magenta-colored dragon emerging. It screeched loudly and waved its razor-sharp wings.

Seiyaryru ATK 2500 DEF 2300 LVL: 7

"That must've been the card he discarded through Vanguard's effect," Lily deduced.

"See. I told you," Ena said with a smile. "I knew Yuji would outmaneuver his opponent."

Scarlett narrowed her eyes at Yuji and chuckled. "Okay, I didn't see that coming," she admitted. "But here's something you didn't see coming. I should probably mention that l Supervise has another effect."

"Another effect?" Yuji repeated.

"That's right. When it goes to the Graveyard, I can Special Summon one Normal Monster from my Graveyard." Following her words, Scarlett's Graveyard lit up. "And that includes Gemini monsters because they're treated as Normal Monsters while in the Graveyard. So let's warmly welcome the one and only Phoenix Gearfried!"

A pillar of flames erupted from the center of the field as a tall, imposing warrior clad in white armor with a flaming red trim, a crested helmet, a decorated broadsword and a shield appeared.

Phoenix Gearfried ATK 2800 DEF 2200 LVL: 8

"From there, I activate the Spell Card: Great Phoenixian Blitz!" Scarlett continued. "With this card, I target one face-up Fire monster I control, such as my Evocator Chevalier. Then, by destroying that target, I can Special Summon a Fire monster with a different name name from my hand or Deck to replace it!"

Evocator Chevalier dissipated in a whirlwind of flames following Scarlett's words as a card popped out from her Deckk.

"Come on out, another Phoenix Gearfried!"

A second copy of her regal-looking warrior appeared beside the first.

Phoenix Gearfried ATK 2800 DEF 2200 LVL: 8

"Interesting..." Theodore muttered. "She managed to summon two Level 8 monsters in an instant." He then smiled. "Not to mention the fact they're Fire monsters."

"Now's not the time to be impressed, Theo!" Lily shouted, causing him to cover his ears.

"I activate the Continuous Spell Card: Burden of the Mighty!" Scarlett declared. "With this, your monsters lose attack points equal to their Levels times 100!"

Yuji narrowed his eyes. "That's not good..." he muttered as his dragons groaned.

Alexandrite Dragon ATK 2000→1600

Seiyaryru ATK 2500→1800

"Battle!" Scarlett exclaimed. "I'll have my first Phoenix Gearfried attack Alexandrite Dragon!"

With a shout, the warrior shouldered its blade and slashed the dragon, destroying it and making Yuji grunt in pain.

Yuji: 6000→4800 LP

"Next, my second Phoenix Gearfried will attack Seiyaryru!" Scarlett stated. "Go, my monster!"

Gearfried slashed the large dragon with its blade, destroying it in an explosion with the backlash pushing Yuji back several feet.

Yuji: 4800→3800 LP

"I activate the Trap Card: Destruction Reward!" Yuji declared. "Because you destroyed the Level 7 Seiyaryru, I can draw two cards!"

Scarlett narrowed her eyes. "That's all I can do for now," she remarked. "I place two cards face-down and end my turn."

"My turn!" Yuji announced. "I draw! First, I activate the Spell Card: Cards of Consonance! I discard a Dragon Tuner monster with 1000 or fewer attack points and draw two cards." He drew, then said, "Then, I summon Dragard!"

A black armored dragon with a purple underbelly appeared.

Dragard ATK 1300→900 DEF 1900 LVL: 4

"Dragard's effect activates!" Yuji declared. "When this card is summoned successfully, I can Special Summon a Normal Monster with 1000 attack points or less from my Graveyard. Return, Galaxy Serpent!"

A portal appeared on Yuji's field, out of which emerged a small turquoise serpentine-like dragon with shining cyan plasma-like scales, giving out a tiny roar.

Galaxy Serpent ATK 1000→800 DEF 0 LVL: 2

Ena tensed upon hearing the monster's name. "A galaxy monster?!"

"Calm down, Ena," Skye said. "I doubt it relates to the monster you're thinking of."

Ena then cringed slightly, remembering the familiar roar of the old monster from her past.

Nina then squinted for a tiny bit, gasping immediately upon realization. "Wait, Galaxy Serpent is a Tuner Monster! That means-"

"He can Synchro Summon," Robin finished for her.

"Is that what you're up to?" Scarlett questioned. "You plan on Synchro Summoning using those two monsters?"

"Not quite," Yuji replied, confusing everyone. "I have something different in mind. But before I show you what I mean, I activate the Spell Card: Bountiful Harvest! It lets me draw five cards from my Deck if the combined Levels of all monsters on my opponent's field exceed mine."

Following his words, Yuji drew five new cards.

"At this moment, I activate the Trap Card: Talisman of Reversal!" Scarlett abruptly declared. "Since you drew cards outside your Draw Phase, I draw cards equal to the number you have in your hand!"

"What?" Yuji gasped as Scarlett drew seven new cards. He then smirked. "Interesting play. I didn't expect that. But I bet you didn't expect this. I activate the Spell Card: Tannhauser Gate. Through its effect, I can target two monsters on my field and make the Level of each one equal to the original combined levels of both monsters. As such, both Dragard and Galaxy Serpent become Level 6 monsters."

Dragard LVL: 4→6

Galaxy Serpent LVL: 2→6

Everyone watching blinked and gasped.

"Two Level 6s?" Lily said in surprise.

"That means-." Theodore started.

"I overlay my Level 6 Dragard and Galaxy Serpent!"

Following Yuji's declaration, he swung his Duel Disk out and shot a bolt of silver lightning behind him. The bolt created a giant blue "X" with four red dots at the corners. The two monsters disintegrated into silver data and entered the dots. A red circle formed behind the cross as the ends of it shot lasers and created a swirling galaxy in front of Yuji. The galaxy exploded with energy as he chanted.

"Great dragons of old, be reborn in a mighty flame and rise from your ancient tombs! I Xyz Summon! Arise, Rank 6! Hieratic Dragon King of Atum"

A strand of blue DNA formed, then broke apart and formed a sphere. The sphere reformed into a humanoid dark blue dragon clad in golden armor. The dragon roared in Attack Position, two yellow lights circling behind it.

Hieratic Dragon King of Atum ATK 2400 DEF 2100 RNK: 6 OU: 2

"Xyz Summon…" Ena muttered upon seeing this. "It looks like Yuji decided to add it to his Deck's arsenal. How interesting."

"Since Hieratic Dragon King Atum is an Xyz Monster, it's unaffected by Burden of the Mighty," Yuji stated. "Moving on, I detach and Overlay Unit to activate Atum's effect!" - One of the orbs going around the dragon was absorbed into its chestplate. "Now, I can Special Summon one Dragon monster from my Deck, but its attack and defense points become 0!"

Hieratic King Dragon of Atum OU: 2→1

A card was ejected from Yuji's Deck. "I Special Summon Hyozanryu!

A majestic diamond-blue dragon with a bright yellow underbelly, claws and horns descended on the field in Defense Position.

Hyozanryu ATK 2100→0 DEF 2800→0 LVL: 7

"That's an impressive dragon," Theodore said.

"I guess I shouldn't be surprised by how strong Yuji's deck is," Skye added.

"There's more..." Yuji said as he took another card from his hand. "I activate the Spell Card: Metamorphosis! By Tributing one of my monsters, I get to Special Summon a Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck with the same Level. So say goodbye to Hyozanryu and say hello to... King Dragun!"

The dragon made out of diamonds vanished as a light brown dragon with black wings, but instead of a head, it had the upper body of the Lord of D. Its entire body shone with rainbow light.

King Dragun ATK 2400→1700 DEF 1100 LVL: 7

"And check out his effect," Yuji grinned, "Once per turn, I'm allowed to Special Summon one Dragon monster from my hand. Appear, Luster Dragon #2!"

Everyone gasped as another emerald-based dragon appeared on the field with a deafening roar.

Luster Dragon #2 ATK 2400→1800 DEF 1400 LVL: 6

"From there, I activate the Spell Card: Stamping Destruction, which lets me destroy a Spell or Trap on your field and inflict 500 points of damage to you. I choose to destroy your Burden of the Mighty!"

King Dragun swung its tail, slamming down on the Continuous Spell Card, destroying it.

"And with Burden of the Mighty no longer on the field, my monsters' attack points return to normal."

King Dragun ATK 1700→2400

Luster Dragon #2 ATK 1800→2400

"I activate the Continuous Spell Card: Solidarity!" Yuji declared. "So long as I have monsters of the same Type in my Graveyard, all monsters of that Type I control gain 800 attack points!"

"The monsters in Yuji's Graveyard are all Dragon-type," Ena said. "That means all of Yuji's Dragon monsters will become stronger than before."

Hieratic Dragon King of Atum ATK 2400→3200

King Dragun ATK 2400→3200

Luster Dragon #2 ATK 2400→3200

"Since your Phoenix Gearfried supposedly wields a dragon-slaying sword, allow me to test its effectiveness!" Yuji exclaimed. "Battle! King Dragun, attack the Phoenix Gearfried on the right! Twilight Burn!"

King Dragun held a dragon-shaped horn in its right hand that released a blast of yellow fire at the armored warrior, destroying it and making Scarlett wince.

Scarlett: 3500→3100

"Moving on, Luster Dragon #2 attacks your second Phoenix Gearfied! Emerald Flame Attack!"

"I activate the Continuous Trap Card: Dimension Guardian!" Scarlett abruptly shouted. "Thanks to its effect, I select one monster on my field and prevent it from being by battle or card effects! I choose the Phoenix Gearfried!"

Following Scarlett's words, a semi-transparent barrier appeared around Phoenix Gearfried, shielding it from Luster Dragon #2 attack. However, several flames struck Scarlett's body, causing her to grimace.

Scarlett: 3100→2700

"Since I used Atum's effect, it can't attack this turn," Yuji said. "I place three cards face-down and end my turn."

"In that case, it's my turn!" Scarlett stated. "I draw!"

Yuji gestured to his field. "Since you have at least six cards in your hand, while I have none, I can activate the Trap Card: Gamble!"

"He's going to risk it on a coin toss," Robin wondered.

"What does it do?" Nina asked.

"It allows Yuji to flip a coin. If he calls it right, he gets to draw five cards. If he doesn't, he's forced to skip his next turn," Skye explained.

"Well, given how his hand is empty, it makes sense that he would have a card ready to refill it," Ena mentioned.

A holographic coin appeared before Yuji, which he grabbed and held ready, "I pick heads!"

Yuji flicked the coin high up into the air before descending. The coin fell onto Yuji's left hand, which he quickly covered with his right to stop it from falling. The spectators watched as he slowly removed his right hand to reveal...

"Heads!" Yuji rejoiced, "I can draw five cards!"

Scarlett narrowed her eyes. "Guess it's time for me to resort to Plan B. First, I activate the Spell Card: Advance Draw, which allows me to Tribute a Level 8 or higher monster I control to draw two cards! I Tribute my Phoenix Gearfried!"

Upon checking out her drawn cards, Scarlett grinned.

"I summon Gemini Scorpion!"

A white-haired warrior clad in elaborate black and red armor appeared on Scarlett's field. Suddenly, a ghostly, red-headed warrior appeared beside the first. They both wielded curved twin blades.

Gemini Scopion ATK 1600 DEF 400 LVL: 4

"Gemini Scorpion's effect activates!" Scarlett declared. "When this card is summoned, I can Special Summon any Level 4 or lower Gemini monster from my hand. So come on out, Solstice Pyromancer!"

A monster appeared in a whirlwind of flames. It was a man dressed in a ragged cloak with dull bronze armor visible underneath it. In his left hand, he wielded a long staff.

Solstice Pyromancer ATK 1700 DEF 1000 LVL: 4

"Solstice, huh…?" Yuji muttered. "I've never heard of this archetype, but I suppose it fits, given that she uses Fire monsters."

Ena narrowed her eyes at Scarlett's field. "Two Level 4 monsters," she mused. Her eyes widened. "Can it be…?"

"With my two Level 4 monsters, I build the Overlay Network!" Scarlett declared, causing Yuji to gasp as her Duel Disk released a bolt of orange energy. The bolt created a massive "X" with four red points. The two monsters turned into data and entered the red dots, glowing brightly. The ends of the "X" fired beams that created a miniature galaxy, which exploded with power.

"Go and fight for your future with the acolytes of the wind!" Scarlett chanted. "I Xyz Summon! Rank 4! Daigusto Emeral!"

In the explosion, residue leaped from a bright green humanoid. Its body was fortified with emeralds. Attached to both arms were shields with jagged rims, which could double as offensive weapons. Two green orbs of light circled it.

Daigusto Emeral ATK 1800 DEF 800 RNK: 4 OU: 2

"An Xyz Summon?" Yuji sounded surprised. "Moreover, its attribute isn't Fire compared to your other monsters? You've got me curious here about this monster's capabilities."

"Well, if you're that intrigued, why don't I show you them?" Scarlett grinned. "I activate Emeral's effect! By detaching one of its Overlay Units, I can Special Summon a non-Effect Monster from my Graveyard!"

A single green orb broke orbit and was absorbed into one of the monster's shields.

Daigusto Emeral OU: 2→1

"Oh, and just in case you've forgotten," Scarlett added, "That also includes Gemini Monsters because they're treated as Normal Monsters while in the Graveyard. So rise from the ashes and be reborn, Phoenix Gearfired!"

A large portal appeared on Scarlett's field, with Phoenix Gearfried emerging from it.

Phoenix Gearfried ATK 2800 DEF 2200 LVL: 8

"That's not all. I activate the Spell Card: Fusion Birth!" Scarlett continued. "This allows me to send the top five cards of my Deck to the Graveyard, and if any of them happen to be monsters that can be used as Fusion Materials, I can Fusion Summon! Let's see now."

Scarlett took the five cards from her Deck and showed them off by the holograms. Gemini Spark, Amulet of Ambition, Justi-Break, Gemini Soldier, and Chthonian Emperor Dragon! "Well, what do you know, two of them are monsters. I Fusion Summon using Gemini Soldier and Chthonian Emperor Dragon!"

Silhouettes of a small soldier in green armor with white boots, gloves and a cape and a towering, black dragon with a serpentine, armored body, massive wings and an arrowhead-shaped head coated in bony plates and crimson eyes. The monsters disintegrated into particles that formed a vortex. Two whirlwinds, colored red and blue, emerged from the vortex before merging into a purple tornado as Scarlett chanted.

"Now is the time to strike. Come together to ALL of our hidden power! I Fusion Summon! Arise and come forth, Superalloy Beast Raptinus!"

From the tornado emerged a large dragon with several colored limbs of other dragons. Nevertheless, it landed on the field and walked the grounds with a menacing roar toward Yuji.

Superalloy Beast Raptinus ATK 2200 DEF 2200 LVL: 8

"Raptinus's effect! So long as it's on my field, all my Gemini monsters gain their effects! Meaning my Phoenix Gearfried gains his effects!"

Raptinus' wings flowed bright blue as a blazing red aura surrounded the armored warrior.

"From there, I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card: Mystical Space Typhoon! I destroy one Spell or Trap Card on the field. I'll destroy Solidarity!"

Yuji frowned as his Continuous Spell shattered, causing his monsters to lose their attack boost.

Hieratic Dragon King of Atum ATK 3200→2400

King Dragun ATK 3200→2400

Luster Dragon #2 ATK 3200→2400

Yuji gritted his teeth… and smirked. "I activate the Trap Card: Burst Breath! I Tribute Luster Dragon #2!" The large dragon burst into a red inferno. "All monsters on your field whose defense points are less than or equal to Luster Dragon's attack points are destroyed!"

The flames exploded outwards, heading toward Scarlett's field.

"My monsters aren't going anywhere!" Scarlett stated. "By discarding a card, I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card: Card Guard!"

Three large guard-like shields appeared before each of Sacrlett's monsters, shielding them from the flame.

"Until the End Phase, my monsters cannot be destroyed by any means!" Scarlett explained. "Furthermore, Phoenix Gearfried's effect activates! Since you activated a Trap Card, I can Special Summon a Gemini Monster from my Graveyard! Return, Chthonian Emperor Dragon!''

The large dragon covered in bone-like armor reappeared on Scarlett's field in Attack Position.

Chthonian Emperor Dragon ATK 2400 DEF 1500 LVL: 6

"She's got four monsters now!" Lily exclaimed.

"And thanks to Raptinus, my dragon gains its effect!" Scarlett stated as her monster gained a blazing red aura. "I activate the Continuous Spell Card: Banner of Courage! Now, time to battle! Phoenix Gearfried, attack King Dragun! And thanks to Banner of Courgae's effect, all my monsters gain 200 attack points during the Battle Phase!"

Daigusto Emeral ATK 1800→2000

Superalloy Beast Raptinus ATK 2200→2400

Chthonian Emperor Dragon ATK 2400→2600

Phoenix Gearfried ATK 2800→3000

The white armored soldier ignited his blade as he sliced the Fusion Monster in half, with the backlash from the attack making Yuji wince in pain.

Yujii: 3800→3200 LP

"And now, Chthonian Emperor Dragon attacks Atum!"

"And just like before, I'll have it attack King Dragun through Baton of the Hero's effect!"

The armored dragon spat out a stream of flames at the Xyz Monster, destroying it in an explosion and generating a shockwave that sent Yuji back.

Yuji: 3200→2800 LP

"Thanks to its effect, Emperor Dragon can make a second attack during each turn's Battle Phase," Scarlett revealed. "Therefore, Chthonian Emperor Dragon will attack you directly!"

"As if you'd take me down that easily!" Yuji bellowed. "I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card: Shield Wall! This card lets me Special Summon four Shield Tokens to my field in Defense Position. However, they can't attack, be tributed, and are destroyed should they change to Attack Position. Now, emerge!"

At Yuji's command, four stone golems with large shields and swords strapped onto their backs appeared.

Shield Token ATK 1000 DEF 1000 LVL: 1

Shield Token ATK 1000 DEF 1000 LVL: 1

Shield Token ATK 1000 DEF 1000 LVL: 1

Shield Token ATK 1000 DEF 1000 LVL: 1

"Will you press on with your attack?" Yuji asked.

"Of course," Scarlett answered. "Chthonian Emperor Dragon will attack the Shield Token on your far right instead!"

The dragon lashed its tail at the token and tore it to bits.

"Following that, I'll have Daigusto Emeral attack the Shield Token in the middle, and Raptinus attack the one on the left!"

Hearing Scarlett's command, Emeral charged forward and smashed one of the tokens with its shield while Raptinus fired a stream of blue energy from its maw at another, burning it to a crisp.

"Okay, that was too close of a call there," Theodore commented.

Ena looked worried. Scarlett had the advantage. If Yuji had a plan, he better launch it on his next turn. Or else this duel will end in his loss.

"The Battle Phase has come to an end," Scarlett stated. "That means Banner of Courage's effect expires."

Daigusto Emeral ATK 2000→1800

Superalloy Beast Raptinus ATK 2400→2200

Chthonian Emperor Dragon ATK 2600→2400

Phoenix Gearfried ATK 3000→2800

"I place two cards face-down and end my turn," Scarlett concluded.

"This isn't looking good," Skye remarked. "Yuji has no monsters on his field. If he isn't careful, Scarlett's next onslaught might be the end of him."

"It's my turn!" Yuji announced. "I draw! Man, you're skilled. It's been a while since I had a duel where I was pushed to the edge so swiftly. However, the final victor will still be me! First, I summon Shitorinryu!"

A citrine-scaled dragon with a long, snake-like body appeared.

Shitorinryu ATK 1800 DEF 1700 LVL: 4

"Next, I activate the Spell Card: Plus Star 123! I target a Level 4 or below monster, then increase that monster's Level by up to 3! I target my Shield Token and increase its Level by 3, bringing it up to 4!"

Shield Token LVL: 1→4

"Now he's got two Level 4 monsters on his field," Lily noted.

"Is he going to Xyz Summon?" Nina wondered.

"He can't," Robin said. "You can't Xyz Summon using a token." Suddenly, her eyes widened in realization. "Which means he's going to…"

Yuji gestured to his field. "Level 4 Shitorinryu tunes with the Level 4 Shield Token!"

A bolt of green lightning struck the field, turning the two monsters into data particles that reformed into two rings, one yellow and the other brown, each made of four concentric circles. The rings turned blue and merged, then formed four blue rings in a tower. A screen displaying "4 + 4" appeared before changing to "8." Light surged through the rings as Yuji chanted.

"Isolated, absolute King! Rend the obsidian darkness and scorch Heaven and Earth! I Synchro Summon! Display your ferocious might, Level 8! Hot Red Dragon Archfiend!"

An imposing dragon with demonic features with crimson lines resembling birthmarks running through its body appeared on Yuji's field, letting out an outraged howl.

Hot Red Dragon Archfiend ATK 3000 DEF 2000 LVL: 8

"What!? A Synchro Summon!?" Theodore, Lily, Skye and Nina gasped.

"So you utilize multiple summoning methods," Scarlett noted.

"That's right. I feel it brings a more nostalgic feel to a duel." Yuji explained. "But don't take my word for it. Let my dragon prove my point! I activate Hot Red Dragon Archfiend's effect! It lets me destroy all other Attack Position monsters on the field. Crimson Crisis!"

A crimson aura surrounded the Synchro Monster as it raised its arm high, with several pillars of flames exploding from the ground shortly afterward, consuming all of Scarlett's monsters and leaving her field empty.

"This duel's been fun," Yuji said. "But all good things must come to an end." He gestured to his monster. "Battle! Hot Red Dragon Archfiend, attack Scarlett directly! Absolute Judgement!"

"Not so fast!" Scarlett yelled. "I activate the Trap Card: Offensive Guard! When a monster you control declares a direct attack, I can halve the attacking monster's attack points until the End Phase and draw one card!"

Hot Red Dragon Archfiend ATK 3000→1500

A large stream of flames erupted from the dragon's maw, engulfing Scarlett and making her grunt in pain. She quickly recovered as she drew.

Scarlett: 2700→1200 LP

"It's too bad I didn't have another monster to attack with," Yuji said as he narrowed his eyes at Scarlett. "I could have won this turn if I did. In any case, I place two cards face-down and end my turn. And since it's the End Phase, Offensive Guard's effect concludes."

Hot Red Dragon Archfiend ATK 1500→3000

"Incredible…" Skye murmured. "In a single turn, Yuji managed to shift the flow of the Duel in his favor."

"I was a fool to worry." Ena let out a small smile. "Yuji will not let himself be outdone by someone as talented as Scarlett. That's the kind of Duelist he is."

"It's my turn!" Scarlett announced. "I draw! I activate the Spell Card: Spellbook Inside the Pot, allowing us to draw three cards. Next, I activate the Continuous Trap Card: Call of the Haunted! It lets me Special Summon a monster from my Graveyard. Return, Superalloy Beast Raptinus!"

The large colorful dragon reappeared following Scarlett's words.

Superalloy Beast Raptinus ATK 2200 DEF 2200 LVL: 8

"Then, I activate the Spell Card: Bubble Burst!" Scarlett continued. "Through its effect, I destroy Banner of Courage to draw two more cards from my Deck. Following that, I summon Solstice Witch!"

A young female with white hair cladded in dark red robes wielding a small staff made of flames appeared on Scarlett's field.

Solstice Witch ATK 1600 DEF 1300 LVL: 4

"I'm on fire today!" Scarlett laughed. "Thanks to Raptinus, Witch gains her effects, which I'll activate now! Once per turn, I can Special Summon a "Solstice" monster from my Deck. Appear, Solstice High Sage!"

A pillar of flames erupted on Scarlett's field, revealing a new monster. It was a bald man in magician's robes who stood at least twelve feet tall with a wicked grin. His forehead had a fiery pattern.

Solstice High Sage ATK 3200 DEF 2800 LVL: 9

"From there, I activate High Sage's effect! By Tributing a Gemini monster on my field, such as Witch, I can Special Summon a "Solstice" monster from my hand, Deck or Graveyard. From my Deck, I Special Summon Solstice Guru!"

Solstice Witch vanished as a fiery portal appeared. Out of the fiery portal was an old man resembling a wizard clad in tattered crimson robes. He had a long braided beard and held a long crooked staff wreathed in flames in one hand and a flaming katana in the other.

Solstice Guru ATK 2900 DEF 2750 LVL: 7

"She brought out three powerful monsters in a single turn…" Yuji was amazed by this. "It looks like you're making a comeback, Scarlett."

"You haven't seen anything yet," Scarlett said with a smirk. "Battle! Solstice Guru, take down Hot Red Dragon Archfiend!"

"I activate the Trap Card: Draining Shield!" Yuji declared. "Through its effect, your monster's attack is negated, and I gain Life Points equal to its attack points!"

"That's what you think! I activate the Counter Trap Card: Anti-Magic Spear Gae Dearg from my hand!" Scarlett abruptly stated. "This card can be activated from my hand if I control a Spellcaster! As for its effect, it allows me to negate the activation of a Spell or Trap Card you control and destroy it! As such, Draining Shield is destroyed!"

A crimson spear suddenly appeared on the field, piercing Yuji's Trap and destroying it.

"Since your Trap was negated, my attack resumes," Scarlett said. "Destroy his dragon, High Sage!".

Flames surrounded High Sage's staff as it charged forward, blasting a wave of fire that engulfed and destroyed the Synchro Monster and making Yuji wince from the damage.

Yuji: 2800→2600 LP

"Now, Solstice Gura, attack Yuji directly and end this duel!"

Following its command, Guru yelled as his staff glowed red and gathered energy.

Yuji gritted his teeth before gesturing to his face-down card. "I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card: Hyper Refresh! Since I control no monsters while the combined attack points of your monsters exceed my Life Points, my Life Points are doubled!"

Within seconds, a purple aura surrounded Yuji's body.

Yuji: 2600→5200 LP

Guru's staff fired a red energy blast and struck Yuji, knocking him back several feet.

Yuji: 5200→2500 LP

"That had to hurt." Theodore winced. "If he hadn't raised his Life Points so high, Yuji would have outright lost."

"Nice defense." Scarlett praised Yuji. "However, I still have one more attack! Attack Yuji directly, Raptinus!"

Raptinus roared as it fired a multi-colored stream of energy from its maw, striking Yuji directly and sending him tumbling back.

Yuji: 2500→300 LP

"I place two cards face-down and end my turn with this."

"This is looking pretty bad," Lily commented. "Scarlett has three powerful monsters on her field while Yuji's is bare. He'd better think of something fast. Otherwise, he'll be overwhelmed on Scarlett's next turn."

"It's my turn!" Yuji announced. "I draw! From my hand, I activate the Spell Card: Greater Polymerization! Thanks to it, I can Fusion Summons a Fusion Monster from the Extra Deck by using three or more monsters from my hand or field as Fusion Material. I fuse Luster Dragon, Divine Dragon Ragnorok and Ruby Dragon from my hand!"

Silhouettes of a tall blue dragon with wings covered in sapphires, a white dragon made of energy, and a tall red dragon with wings covered in rubies appeared on Yuji's field. Moments later, the three dragons became a whirlpool of particles that formed into a violet twister as Yuji chanted.

"Through the dark shines of the gemstone dragons, emerge from the pitch darkness to destroy all light and eclipse all in your dark glow! I Fusion Summon! Rise, the Gem Dragon of Darkness! Blackstone Dragon!"

A large black, malicious dragon with glowing, piercing red eyes and lining emitting a black-red colored electrical aura appeared on Yuji's field in Attack Position and roared at Taigen.

Blackstone Dragon ATK 3000 DEF 2400 LVL: 8

"Blackstone's effect activates! When Fusion Summoned, I can target cards on the field equal to the number of monsters used for its Fusion Summon and shuffle them back into the Deck," Yuji stated. "Since I used three monsters, I get to target three cards. I shuffle your three monsters back into your Deck! Darkness Flash!"

"I activate my Trap Card!" Scarlett declared, drawing Yuji's attention. "Altar for Tribute! I send my Superalloy Beast Raptinus to the Graveyard and gain Life Points equal to its original attack points!"

"What?" Yuji said, watching with surprise as the Fusion Monster disappeared and a green light surrounded Scarlett.

Scarlett: 1200→3400 LP

Yuji raised an eyebrow. "Why would she Tribute Raptinus?" he wondered. "She would've gained more Life Points if she had Tribute Guru or High Sage. Blackstone's effect continues, returning your two remaining monsters to your Deck!"

Following Yuji's words, Blackstone's eyes glowed as beams of piercing dark light were emitted from its body and struck the designated cards, causing them to vanish from the field.

"This will finish you, Scarlett." Yuji grinned. "Thanks to its additional effect, Blackstone Dragon can attack twice since I used at least three monsters to Fusion Summon it. Yuji gestured to his monster. "Battle! Blackstone Dragon, attack Scarlett directly! Darkness Shine Burst!"

Blackstone opened its maw and fired a red and black energy beam at Scarlett.

"You thought it was going to be easy?" Scarlett asked. "I activate the Trap Card: Card Defense! By discarding a card from my hand, not only can I negate the attack, but I get to draw a card as well!"

As Scarlett discarded a card from her hand and drew another one, a swarm of cards protected her from Blackstone's attack.

"The battle still isn't over." Yuji reminded her. "Attack her again, Blackstone! Darkness Shine Burst!"

Following Yuji's command, Blackstone howled as it surged forward, striking Scarlett with its claws and sending her flying, with her eventually crashing on the ground hard.

Scarlett: 3400→400 LP

"So close…" Yuji clicked his tongue in irritation. "I place a card face-down and end my turn. What else have you got for me, Scarlett?"

"You're about to find out," Scarlett said. "My turn! I draw! I activate the Spell Card: Dragon's Mirror, using its effect to banish Superalloy Beast Raptinus, Solstice High Sage and Phoenix Gearfried to perform a Fusion Summon!"

"So that's why she Tributed Raptinus through Altar of Tribute," Yuji muttered through gritted teeth. "It was so it could be in the Graveyard to be used as Fusion Material."

A giant mirror with a dragon-like design materialized, in which the reflections of the designated monsters could be seen. Soon, the three monsters became a whirlpool of particles as Scarlett chanted.

"Mythical proxy of evolution! Bearer of the sublime dualism! As your bodies and desires become one, awaken the divine beast slumbering at the edge of reality! I Fusion Summon! Show yourself, Hyperalloy Sovereign Neptunios!"

A monster that resembled Raptinus but with two additional horns that curled outwards, a fish-like tail whose tip had a golden trident shape, and six wings composed of swirling water and wind appeared on Scarlett's field as it let out a large roar.

Hyperalloy Sovereign Neptunios ATK 4000 DEF 4000 LVL: 11

"Amazing!" Nina cheered. "Scarlett brought out her Deck's ace!"

"Even so, I bet Yuji doesn't plan to stay silent," Robin stated. "I can't wait to see how he plans to deal with Scarlett's assault."

"I activate Sovereign Neptunios's effect!" Scarlett declared. "By sending Poly-Chemicritter Dioxogre from my hand to the Graveyard, I can prevent you from activating any cards or effects for the entire turn."

Yuji gritted his teeth and gestured to his field. "I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card: Residual Reflection! By banishing Hieratic Dragon King of Atum and Hot Red Dragon Archfiend from my Graveyard, I take no damage this turn!"

Scarlett smirked. "Impressive. You chained your Spell Card's effect to Neptunios's effect so it wouldn't be negated," she narrowed her eyes at Yuji. "Even so, the effects of your other cards are all negated!" Scarlett gestured to her field. "Battle! Sovereign Neptunios attacks Blackstone Dragon! Superconducted High-Energy Eruption!"

Neptunios slams its fist into the ground, unleashing a wave of electrified energy from the ground at Yuji's dragon, destroying it.

"I failed to finish you off, but at least your field is clear," Scarlett remarked. "I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"It's my turn!" Yuji announced. "I draw! Now, let's do this, Scarlett! It's time to settle things!"

"You seem pretty confident," Scarlett said with a grin. "In that case, don't hold anything back! Come at me with everything you've got!"

"You got it!" Yuji said. "I activate the Spell Card: Double Spell! If I discard a Spell Card, I can use the effects of a Spell Card in your Graveyard as this card's effect. I discard Adamantine Sword Revival and apply the effect of Dragon's Mirror!"

Yuji gestured to his field. "Through the effect of Dragon's Mirror, I can Fusion Summon a Dragon Fusion Monster by banishing Fusion Materials from my field or Graveyard! I banish Luster Dragon, Divine Dragon Ragnarok, Alexandrite Dragon, Ruby Dragon, Hyozanryu, Luster Dragon #2, Seiyarryu and Galaxy Serpent from my Graveyard!"

A giant mirror with a dragon-like design materialized on Yuji's field, in which the reflections of the selected monsters. Moments later, the eight dragons became a whirlpool of particles that formed into twisters as he chanted.

"Legendary Dragon beyond the gems and light, awaken from your slumber and bring forth the shining beauty of the Gem Dragons! I Fusion Summon! Now rise, the God Gem Dragon, Rainbowstone Dragon!"

A white, green-lined, rainbow-colored dragon with horns resembling a crown, an opal gem on its forehead, and a larger one on its chest roared as it appeared on Yuji's field in Attack Position.

Rainbowstone Dragon ATK 3400 DEF 3100 LVL: 9

"Another dragon…" Scarlett said in awe. "You never fail to surprise me, Yuji. But I'm afraid I was one step ahead. I activate the Trap Card: Titanocider! This card will-!"

"Fail to save you." Yuji interrupted. "I activate Rainbowstone's effect! Once per turn, during either player's turn, when you activate a card effect, I can banish a Dragon monster to negate and destroy it!"

The large dragon blasted a beam of light from its maw at Titanocider, causing it to shatter.

"That certainly is a powerful effect," Scarlett remarked. "However, my monster still has more attack points than yours. In other words, you won't win."

"Is that so?" Yuji let out a sly smile. "Then, let's test that theory out! Battle! Rainbowstone Dragon, attack Hyperalloy Sovereign Neptunios! At this moment, Rainbowstone's effect activates! Since I used at least eight monsters for its Fusion Summoning, its attack points are doubled!"

Rainbowstone Dragon ATK 3400→6800

Skye narrowed her eyes. "The difference between their attack points is 2800.

"If this attack connects, Yuji wins," Theodore added.

"Go, Rainbow Gem Burst!"

Following Yuji's command, Rainbowstone Dragon unleashed a powerful multi-colored energy blast at Neptunios.

Scarlett smirked as she narrowed her eyes toward Yuji. "You put up a good fight, but this finale belongs to me!" she declared. "I activate the effect of Trap Re-Arm from my Graveyard! By banishing it, I can Set a Trap Card from my Deck!" A face-down appeared on Scarlett's field. "I activate the Trap Card: Causality Reversal!" The card showed a wounded Rabid Horseman wielding a large battleax, charging at Ocean Dragon Lord - Neo-Daedalus. "Through its effect, when a monster I control battles a monster with higher attack points, I make my monster's attack points equal to that monster's attack points plus 1000!"

Yuji gasped. "What!?"

Hyperalloy Sovereign Neptunios ATK 4000→7800

"Let's settle this!" Scarlett exclaimed. "Counterattack, Neptunios! Superconducted High-Energy Eruption!"

Neptunios shot a blast of electrified energy from its maw, meeting Rainbowstone Dragon's blast midway. The two beams struggled briefly before Neptunios's attack overpowered Rainbowstone's. The energy blast hit the Fusion Monster and destroyed it in an explosion. Yuji cried out as he was sent tumbling onto his back.

Yuji: 300→0 LP

"Yes!" Nina cheered. "Scarlett won!"

"Humph, I knew she would win," Robin said with a smile.

"I can't believe it…" Lily murmured in shock. "Yuji… lost?"

"Well, there's a first time for everything, right?" Theodore nervously giggled.

Scarlett walked across the field as her monster dispersed. She approached Yuji, who had pushed himself into a sitting position.

"It's been a long time since I've had a challenging duel like that," Scarlett said with a smile. "I have never been on the ropes that much since the first time I played this game with my father."

"…Same here," Yuji said with a grin. "Whew! I almost had you! I might've won if you didn't have that Trap Card in your Graveyard. I assume you sent it there through Card Defense, right?"

"Sure did," Scarlett confirmed as she moved closer to Yuji. "But more importantly, we're now even in terms of wins. Right, Storm Rider?"

Upon hearing that, Yuji's eyes widened.

"So you know, huh…?" He narrowed his eyes at Scarlett. "Since when?"

"Around about halfway through our duel," she answered. "But don't worry, I won't tell anyone. Your secret's safe with me."

"It had better be."

"Splendid duel, you two," Ena praised as everyone approached the duo. "Very interesting match."

"Yeah, it was an almost shutout victory for Yuji," Skye said.

"All in all, I'd say it was one of the best matches I've seen in my life," Lily said.

Yuji and Scarlett smiled. "Thanks!" Looking at her watch, Scarlett panicked. "Oh no, it's almost time for the sun to set! We have to hurry!"

"What?" Yuji said, panicking too. "You're right, and if we don't hurry, we'll be too tired for school tomorrow."

"Then let's get a move on!" Theodore yelled as he and others left the backyard.

Meanwhile, elsewhere…

Later…

"I want you to promise me one thing. Please do your best not to slow me down, meatbag. As I failed my last mission, I must complete this one to prove to Queen Priscila that I have not lost my edge."

"Uh, I'll try my best." Natua frowned at Umbra. She knew Umbra was the type of person who takes things seriously, but not so seriously that he neglected his teammates.

She shook her head and looked ahead, ignoring her partner's comment. The two were approaching a gateway leading to SOL's mainframe. Past this gate was a maze of turns filled with security traps to get through.

Umbra stopped at the gateway and pressed several buttons on his Duel Disk. "The stealth systems I created are operating at 100% functionality. Even if a security trap hits you, it will not detect you."

Natura raised an eyebrow. "You're assuming I'll be the one getting hit?"

"In case you've forgotten, I have plenty of experience invading enemy lines without being detected. You are thus more likely to fail to calculate a safe passage through the security traps in time before they touch you."

Natura fought the urge to sigh as she watched Umbra continue to push buttons. "Are you sure we won't be detected?" she asked.

Umbra nodded. "I assure you we won't. The stealth program we will be using is highly advanced. We will be able to get through the maze without trouble. Furthermore, the programs I've interwoven into our avatars will prevent any of SOL's security personnel from watching our activities."

"That's good," Natura muttered. "So we just hit the data core, delete the program to permanently disable Action fields, and leave?"

"Yes and no," Umbra answered, causing Natura to blink. "There is a massive Data Storm between the outer layer maze and the core. The interference from that storm will disrupt our stealth programs. And it will draw the attention of SOL's Security AI."

"And we have to fight through them?" Natura said with a frown.

"We only have to defeat two of them," Umbra said. "To better coordinate between them, the security AIs are all interconnected. Dr. Willow has provided us with viruses in our Duel Disks. When we defeat them, that virus will infect them and will spread from them to the rest of the security AI. Thus, our path will be clear."

Natura smiled. "That's good to hear," she said. "And even if those AI were provided with strong Decks, they'll be no match for me, thanks to the new cards the doctor provided me."

Before Umbra could say anything, his Duel Disk beeped. "The gate is open. We can go through."

Following his words, Umbra and Natura headed through the gate. They came to a stop when they came across a massive digital canyon.

Umbra turned to Natura. "Activate your stealth program and follow me." She nodded and pushed a button on her Duel Disk. The stealth program covered her, making her feel like she had been submerged in water. Umbra had similarly activated his, leaving the two looking like transparent versions of themselves. The two leaped forward, summoning their D-Boards and headed down the passage, Umbra leading the way.

A few minutes later...

"Don't say it."

"I didn't say anything."

"I can see it in your face."

"My face doesn't say words. It just conveys feelings."

"Well, you feel like you want to say it."

"Would you prefer I say it?"

"I would prefer we save this for later."

Natura sighed. Umbra was right; now wasn't the time to get into a childish argument, not with two AI duelists bearing down on them.

The plan had been simple: Infiltrate SOL'S mainframe, delete the Action Field program, and then leave. The first part had been simple enough… at first. Then, an alert was triggered, and two AI duelists appeared to apprehend the duo.

Refocusing on the present, Umbra decided to break their situation down. "I've jammed the alarms, so we only have to worry about automated defenses," he said.

"Like the two AIs chasing us?"

"Yes," he replied to Natura. "Like them. And with the help of the new cards we received, they shouldn't be a problem." He narrowed his eyes. "Let's split up and deal with them. And avoid any further traps."

"Sure thing!" Natura agreed. Umbra took the left route at a two-way intersection, and Natura took the right. A single AI followed each of them.

Natura looked back at the AI chasing after her and deactivated her D-Board, with the AI doing the same. "Sorry!" she said cheerily. "While I assume we were going to Speed Duel, I prefer Mater Duels. Time to send you back to the junkyard where you belong."

The AI readied its Duel Disk, as did Natura.

"Duel!" they shouted.

Natura: 4000 LP

SOL Security AI Duelist: 4000 LP

"I'll take the first turn," SOL SAD #1 said. "I activate the Spell Card: Polymerization, sending two copies of Ancient Gear from my hand to the Graveyard to Fusion Summon."

Two small monsters whose upper bodies were made of a large gear combined with smaller ones, with two small metal arms, appeared on the field before disintegrating into red and blue particles and swirled into a vortex before shooting upwards as tornados. The two tornados merged into a single violet twister.

"Utilizing my vast combat experience and superior tactical intellect, I will reconfigure my mechanized warriors into a devastating war machine! I Fusion Summon! Ancient Gear Howitzer!"

A winged, mechanical monster with two large gears with three cannons extending from them attached to its hands appeared on the AI's field in Defense Position.

Ancient Gear Howitzer ATK 1000 DEF 1800 LVL: 8

Natura raised an eyebrow. "Ancient Gear, huh? From what Queen Priscilla told us, Roget used that Deck before switching to Qli for his duel against Varis."

"I activate the Equip Spell Card: Ancient Gear Magic Shield, equipping it to Antique Gear Howitzer." SOL SAD #1 continued as a large shield that conjured an energy barrier appeared before its monster. "Thanks to its effect, Howitzer's defense points increase by 1200, and it cannot be destroyed by battle."

Ancient Gear Howitzer DEF 1800→3000

"Also, when Ancient Gear Howitzer is equipped with an Equip Card, it's unaffected by my opponent's card effects. Next, I activate Ancient Gear Howitzer's effect! Once per turn, I can inflict 1000 points of damage to my opponent for every Spell Card on my field. Since there is only one such card on my field, you'll receive 1000 points of damage."

The cannons attached to Howitzer targeted Natura, unleashing a barrage of blasts that bombarded her body and caused her to grunt in pain.

Natura: 4000→3000 LP

"I activate the Spell Card: Aurora Draw, which lets me draw two cards since I have no other cards in my hand," SOL SAD #1 drew, then said, "I place two cards face-down and end my turn."

"My turn!" Natura exclaimed. "I draw! You've got a pretty solid defense, you piece of scrap metal. However, I will tear it to pieces and you along with it! I activate the Spell Card: Foolish Burial and send Spiritual Beast Pettlephin from my Deck to the Graveyard. Next, I summon Ritual Beast Tamer Lara!"

A blonde girl in green robes and a cloak appeared, leaning on a wooden staff.

Ritual Beast Tamer Lara ATK 100 DEF 2000 LVL: 1

"Lara's effect activates! When summoned, I can Special Summon a "Ritual Beast" monster from my Graveyard. Resurrect, Pettlephin!"

A pink dolphin with a blue gem on its forehead appeared in Defense Position.

Spiritual Beast Pettlephin ATK 0 DEF 2000 LVL: 4

"I activate Pettlephin's effect!" Natura continued. "Once per turn, by banishing a "Ritual Beast" card from my hand, I can target one of my opponent's cards and return it to their hand. I'll banish Spiritual Beast Apelio, and I think I'll return your Magic Shield to your hand!"

"Your move is inferior!" SOL SAD #1 stated. "I activate the Trap Card: Card of Pandora! When you target a card in my Spell & Trap Zone with an effect, that effect is changed to Card of Pandora!" The Trap Card glowed with an eerie color, forcing Pettlphin to blast a volume of water at it, causing it to vanish. "Then I can draw two cards."

Natura frowned at that. "Well, that's inconvenient." She smiled. "However, I have a backup plan." She raised her right hand. "Appear, the fused circuit!"

A Link Portal appeared above her.

"Link Arrows authorized! The summoning conditions are two "Ritual Beast" monsters. I set Lara and Pettlephin in the Link Arrows!" Said monsters entered the bottom-left and bottom-right arrows. "Link the Circuit! I Link Summon! Appear! Link-2! Ritual Beast Ulti-Kimunfalcos!"

The monster that emerged from the portal was a massive green bird wearing spiked green armor with a green-haired woman riding on its back. The bird cawed from the Right Extra Monster Zone.

Ritual Beast Ulti-Kimunfalcos ATK 1800 LINK-2 ↙↘

"I activate Ulti-Kimunfalcos's effect!" Natura continued. "Once per turn, I can banish a "Ritual Beast" card from my Graveyard to Normal Summon one "Ritual Beast" monster from my hand. I banish Lara to Normal Summon Ritual Beast Tamer Wen!"

A young blonde girl wearing a violet skirt appeared, holding a staff with a blue top.

Ritual Beast Tamer Wen ATK 1500 DEF 1000 LVL: 3

"Wen's effect activates! I can Special Summon a banished "Ritual Beast" monster when it's Normal Summoned. Come, Spiritual Beast Apelio!"

A red-skinned lion appeared and roared in Attack Position.

Spiritual Beast Apelio ATK 1800 DEF 200 LVL: 4

"From there, I activate Apelio's effect! During either player's turn, by banishing one "Ritual Beast" card from my Graveyard, all Ritual Beasts I control will gain 500 attack and defense points for the rest of this turn. I banish Spiritual Beast Pettlephin. Roar of Wisdom!"

Apelio let out a roar, causing it and the rest of Natura's monsters to gain a green aura.

Ritual Beast Tamer Wen ATK 1500→2000 DEF 1000→1500

Ritual Beast Ulti-Kimunfalcos ATK 1800→2300

Spiritual Beast Apelio ATK 1800→2300 DEF 200→700

"Next, I banish Wen and Apelio and fuse them!" Natura exclaimed as the Fusion Portal reappeared, and her two monsters broke into particles and entered the vortex. "Beast with mystical powers coursing through its veins. Gain the tamer's wisdom and become a new power! Contact Fusion! Appear before me, Ritual Beast Ulti-Apelio!"

A much larger lion emerged from the Fusion vortex, with a blonde woman riding on its back. The lion roared from Ulti-Kimunfalcos's bottom-left Link Arrow in Attack Position.

Ritual Beast Ulti-Apelio ATK 2600→3100 DEF 400→900 LVL: 6

"Ulti-Kimunfalcos has another effect," Natura said. "All "Ritual Beast" monsters that it points to gain 600 attack and defense points."

Ritual Beast Ulti-Apelio ATK 3100→3700 DEF 900→1500

"And that's just the tip of the iceberg," Natura stated. "Speaking of which, I activate the Spell Card: Blizzard! Due to its effect, since you have a face-up Spell Card on your field, I can negate that card's effects!"

Following her words, Ancient Gear Magic Shield became encased in ice.

Natura grinned. "Since Magic Shield's effects were negated, your monster loses 1200 defense points."

Ancient Gear Howitzer DEF 3000→1800

Natura gestured to her field. "Battle! Ulti-Apelio attacks Howitzer! At this moment, Ulti-Apelio's effect activates! When it attacks, it is unaffected by other cards' effects until the end of the Damage Step!"

Ritual Beast Ulti-Apelio ATK 3700→2600 DEF 1500→400

The lion charged forward and raked its claws across Howitzer's chest. The machine cried out as it exploded.

Ritual Beast Ulti-Apelio ATK 2600→3700 DEF 400→1500

"I activate the Trap Card: Ancient Gear Bargain." SOL SAD #1 declared as the card showed Goblin of Greed happily trading Ancient Gear for a Pot of Greed with a humanoid machine at a market stall. "Since an "Ancient Gear" Fusion Monster I controlled was destroyed, I can draw two cards from my Deck."

"You may have refilled your hand, but you're now defenseless," Natura remarked. "Ulti-Kimunfalcos attacks you directly!"

"I activate the effect of Swift Scarecrow in my hand!" SOL SAD #1 declared. "When you declare a direct attack, I can discard Swift Scarecrow to negate that attack!" A metal scarecrow with an engine attached to its spine appeared and was shattered by Ulti-Kimunfalcos's attack. "Swift Scarecrow's effect then ends the Battle Phase."

Natura frowned. "In that case, I activate the Spell Card: Emergency Recharge, letting me draw four cards since my hand is empty. Finally, I place a card face-down and end my turn. And during the End Phase, Apelio's effect ends."

Ritual Beast Ulti-Apelio ATK 3700→3200 DEF 1500→1000

Ritual Beast Ulti-Kimunfalcos ATK 2300→1800

"My turn." SOL SAD #1 announced. "I draw. I activate the Spell Card: Graceful Charity, whose effect allows me to draw three cards and discard two from my hand. Then, I activate the effect of the Spell Card: Cards of Compensation I just sent in my Graveyard. It lets me draw two cards from my Deck. Following that, I activate the Field Spell Card: Geartown."

The area around them turned into a city filled with buildings made of and themed after its namesake gears.

"I activate the Spell Card: Ancient Gear Catapult, targeting Gear Town and destroying it.''

The giant mechanical city was then destroyed by the appearance of a modern mechanical catapult, shattering the scenery and returning the field around them to normal.

Natura raised an eyebrow. "Huh!? Are your circuits fried or something? Why would you do something as dumb as that?"

SOL SAD #1 ignored her and continued. "With the effect of Catapult, I can Special Summon an "Ancient Gear" monster from my Deck by ignoring its summoning conditions. I choose Ancient Gear Golem – Ultimate Pound."

An imposing mechanical giant with multiple gears appeared on the field in Attack Position.

Ancient Gear Golem – Ultimate Pound ATK 3000 DEF 3000 LVL: 8

"Since Geartown was destroyed, its effect activates, allowing me to Special Summon an "Ancient Gear" monster from my hand, Deck or Graveyard." SOL SAD #1 stated. "I Special Summon Ancient Gear Statue."

A human-sized statue appeared. It resembled the upper half of Roman battle armor, with cogwheels decorating its chest arms and one inside its helmet, below a glowing red eye. Behind the statue were additional metal pieces, symbolizing a sunrise.

"I activate Ancient Gear Statue's effect, Tributing it to Special Summon this card from my hand." The AI continued. "Come, Ancient Gear Golem."

A mechanical giant almost identical to Ultimate Pound appeared on the AI's field.

Ancient Gear Golem ATK 3000 DEF 3000 LVL: 8

"Battle." The AI declared. "Ancient Gear Golem – Ultimate Pound, destroy Ulti-Kimunfalcos."

Natura gritted her teeth as she gestured to her field. "I activate the Trap Card: Enchanted Javelin! Thanks to its effect, I gain Life Points equal to your monster's attack points!"

Natura: 3000→6000 LP

The mechanical giant threw a mighty punch that obliterated Natura's Link Monster and caused her to wince due to the ensuing shockwave.

Natura: 6000→4800 LP

Ritual Beast Ulti-Apelio ATK 3200→2600 DEF 1000→400

"At this moment, Ancient Gear Golem – Ultimate Pound's effect activates." The AI said. "Since it destroyed an opponent's monster, I can send Ancient Gear Wyvern from my hand to the Graveyard to allow it to attack again. Attack and destroy Ritual Beast Ulti-Apelio."

"I won't let you!" Natura shouted. "I activateUlti-Apelio's effect! By returning Ulti-Apelio to my Extra Deck, I can Special Summon a banished "Ritual Beast Tamer" monster and "Spiritual Beast" monster in Defense Position." Ulti-Apelio disintegrated. "Come to me, Tamer Wen and Apelio!"

The little girl with blonde hair and the red lion reappeared following Natura's words.

Ritual Beast Tamer Wen ATK 1500 DEF 1000 LVL: 3

Spiritual Beast Apelio ATK 1800 DEF 200 LVL: 4

"A battle replay occurs." The AI stated. "Ultimate Pound attacks Tamer Wen!"

The previous scene was repeated as the mechanical giant's fist crushed Wen.

"Next, Ancient Gear Golem attacks Spiritual Beast Apelio!" The AI continued. "Mechanized Melee!"

Ancient Gear Golem pulled back its right arm and punched the red lion, destroying it in an explosion.

"Ancient Gear Golem also inflicts piercing damage."

"What?" Natura said, her eyes wide. She watched as the Golem's fist rammed through her.

Natura: 4800→2000 LP

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." The AI concluded.

"It's my turn!" Natura announced. "I draw! First, I activate the Spell Card: Pot of Greed, which allows me to draw two cards from my Deck. Then, I activate the Spell Card: Special Hurricane. By discarding one card from my hand, I can destroy all monsters on the field that were Special Summoned."

A very strong whirlwind erupted from the Spell Card and collided with the two Ancient Gear monsters, making them explode.

"Since "Ancient Gear" monsters on my field were destroyed, I can activate the Trap Card: Scrap Barricade." The card showed destroyed parts of Ancient Gear Golem floating in the air and connected through electricity, forming a barrier that protected a damaged Ancient Gear Hunting Hound. "Through its effect, all damage I receive for this turn is reduced to half. In addition, since it was destroyed, Ancient Gear Golem – Ultimate Pound's effect activates. Through it, I can add a "Fusion" card from my Deck to my hand and an "Ancient Gear" monster from my Graveyard to my hand. I add Welding Fusion and Ancient Gear Wyvern to my hand."

Natura narrowed her eyes. "So it's planning on Fusion Summoning next turn," she muttered. "In that case, I'll fight fire with fire. Since the card I discarded through Special Hurricane was Cards of Compensation, I'm allowed to draw two cards. Then, I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card: Emergency Teleport! It lets me Special Summon a Level 3 or lower Psychic monster from my hand or Deck. But during my End Phase, that monster will be banished. Come from my Deck, Ritual Beast Tamer Esaw!"

A young male wearing a hoodie-like cloak and a long green scarf armed with a staff appeared in Defense Position.

Ritual Beast Tamer Esaw ATK 400 DEF 1300 LVL: 2

"And since I control a "Ritual Beast" monster, I can Special Summon this card from my hand. Come, Spiritual Beast Petashark!"

A dark blue-scaled shark with sharp fangs and purple tribal markings on its body appeared. It wore a warrior helmet across its head fin.

Spiritual Beast Petashark ATK 2300 DEF 500 LVL: 5

Natura smirked as she gestured to her field. "Now, I banish Esaw and Petashark to perform a Contact Fusion!"

The Fusion Portal appeared behind Natura as she spread her arms. Her monsters turned into red and blue particles and swirled into the vortex.

"Creature of the sea! The master tamer! Enter the realm of the spirits, and combine your power into a new form!" She clasped her hands together. "I Fusion Summon! Come forth! Ritual Beast Ulti-Petashark!"

A man resembling Tamer Esaw with an ornate staff rode on the back of a large dark blue shark. The shark had armor on its head and arms with purple tribal markings all over its body. It let out a yellow as it appeared on the field in Attack Position.

Ritual Beast Ulti-Petashark ATK 1800 DEF 1200 LVL: 6

"And it doesn't end there. I activate the Equip Spell Card: Fusion Weapon and equip it to Petashark!" Natura declared as the man's staff transformed into a red trident. "This card can only be equipped to a Fusion Monster whose Level is 6 or lower, giving that monster 1500 attack and defense points."

Ritual Beast Ulti-Petashark ATK 1800→3300 DEF 1200→2700

"Battle!" Natura exclaimed. "Ritual Beast Ulti-Petashark, attack that piece of junk directly!"

An energy twister erupted from Petashark's mouth, enveloping the AI's body and pushing it back several feet.

SOL Security AI Duelist: 4000→2350 LP

"At this moment, Ulti-Petashark's effect activates!" Natura stated. "Since it inflicted battle damage, I can add a "Ritual Beast" monster from my Deck to my hand. I select Spiritual Beast Aperilla. Lastly, I place two cards face-down and end my turn."

"My turn." The AI announced. "I draw. I activate the Spell Card: Pot of Greed!" The AI drew its two cards. "Then, I summon Ancient Gear Wyvern."

A green-and-gray mechanical dragon appeared and roared.

Ancient Gear Wyvern ATK 1700 DEF 1200 LVL: 4

"Wyvern's effect activates! When it's successfully summoned, I can add an "Ancient Gear" card from my Deck to my hand. I'll add Ancient Gear Box to my hand. And since I added Ancient Gear Box from my Deck to my hand, I can now add an Earth Machine monster with 500 attack or defense points from my Deck. I'll add Ancient Gear Gadget to my hand. Then, I will send Ancient Gear Box from my hand to the Graveyard to activate the Spell Card: Welding Fusion." The card showed three Ancient Gear Hunting Hounds with different parts of their bodies glowing as they smashed against each other in an attempt to mold into one. "This card allows me to perform a Fusion Summon by banishing "Ancient Gear" monsters from my field and Graveyard. I banish Ancient Gear Golem, Ultimate Pound and Wyvern to Fusion Summon."

Silhouettes of Golem and Ultimate Pound appeared beside Wyvern. The three monsters disintegrated into particles that formed a vortex. Three whirlwinds, colored red, blue, and green, emerged from the vortex before merging into a purple tornado.

"Ancient giant. Dragon raised in the sky. Vicious ancient giant. Become one now and awaken the war machine of terror. I Fusion Summon. Appear now. Ancient Gear Megaton Golem."

A towering mechanical giant with three sets of arms and three legs appeared on the AI's field.

Ancient Gear Megaton Golem ATK 3300 DEF 3300 LVL: 9

"I activate the Spell Card: Ancient Gear Union." The AI continued as the card showed different parts of Ancient Gear Hydra flying out of a portal and equipping themselves to Ancient Gear Knight, giving it a new appearance. "Its effect allows me to target an "Ancient Gear" Fusion Monster in my Graveyard and equip it to an "Ancient Gear" monster I control. Moreover, the equipped monster gains the selected Fusion Monster's attack points. I choose Ancient Gear Howitzer."

Following the AI's words, Howitzer emerged from a portal on the ground and attached itself to Megaton Golem's body.

Megaton Golem ATK 3300→4300

"Battle." The AI declared. "Ancient Gear Megaton Golem, destroy Ritual Beast Ulti-Petashark. Megaton Pound."

"Like I'll let you do that! I activate Ulti-Petashark's effect!" Natura abruptly declared. "Once per turn, during either of our turns, I can-!"

"I activate the effect of Effect Veiler from my hand." SOL SAD #1 responded. "By sending this card from my hand to my Graveyard, I can target one monster you control and negate its effects until the end of this turn."

Following SOL SAD #1 words, Ulti-Petashark greyed out as Megaton Golem struck it with its six fists, pulverizing it and generating a shockwave that caused her to grunt in pain.

Natura: 2000→1000 LP

"Due to its effect, Megaton Golem can attack twice per Battle Phase since it used two "Ancient Gear Golem" monsters as materials for its Fusion Summon." SOL SAD #1 stated. "As such, Megaton Golem will attack you directly. Megaton Pound."

"Before that, I'll activate my face-down card!" Natura stated. "The Continuous Trap Card: Direct Border! Due to this card's effect, monsters with 1000 attack points or more cannot attack directly!"

"The attack was interrupted." SOL SAD #1 remarked. "I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"My turn!" Natura announced. "I draw! Now, time for me to stage my comeback! I activate the Spell Card: Magic Planter, sending Direct Border to the Graveyard to draw two cards. Then, I activate the Continuous Trap Card: Limit Reverse! This card lets me Special Summon a monster from my Graveyard with 1000 attack points or less. I Special Summon Ritual Beast Tamer Esaw!"

The robed young male reappeared.

Ritual Beast Tamer Esaw ATK 400 DEF 1300 LVL: 2

"Then, by banishing Ritual Beast Ulti-Petashark from my Graveyard, I Special Summon Spiritual Beast Aperilla from my hand!"

A red-skinned gorilla with flaming fists and orange lining appeared on Natura's field and howled.

Spiritual Beast Aperilla ATK 1500 DEF 1000 LVL: 4

"And since Aperilla was summoned successfully through its effect, its attack points become 2000."

Spiritual Beast Aperilla ATK 1500→2000

Natura gestured to her field. "Now, I banish Esaw and Aperilla to perform a Contact Fusion!"

The Fusion Portal appeared behind Natura as she spread her arms. Her monsters turned into red and blue particles and swirled into the vortex.

"Beast of the jungle! The master tamer! Enter the realm of the spirits, and combine your power into a new form!" She clasped her hands together. "I Fusion Summon! Come forth! Ritual Beast Ulti-Aperilla!"

A girl with short amber hair wearing a brown robe and holding a jeweled staff rode on the back of a large armored gorilla. The gorilla had flaming red fists and orange lining all over its body. It roared as it appeared in Attack Position.

Ritual Beast Ulti-Aperilla ATK 2500 DEF 2000 LVL: 8

"Moving on, I activate the Spell Card: Riryoku! Until the End Phase, Megaton Golem's attack points are halved, and Ulti-Aperilla gains those attack points!"

Ancient Gear Megaton Golem ATK 4300→2150

Ritual Beat Ulti-Aperilla ATK 2500→4650

"Bye-bye!" Natura waved with a smile. "Feel free to try again later. Battle! Ulti-Aperilla attacks Megaton Golem!"

"I activate the Trap Card: Half Counter." SOL SAD #1 abruptly stated. "Due to its effect, since you declared an attack against my monster, I can increase Ancient Gear Megaton Golem's attack points by half of your Ulti-Aperilla's original attack points!"

Natura narrowed her eyes. "My monster's original attack points are 2500! That means Megaton gains 1250 attack points!"

Ancient Gear Megaton Golem ATK 2150→3400

The armored gorilla slammed its fist into the Ancient Gear Fusion Monster, destroying it in an explosion.

SOL Security AI Duelist: 2350→1100 LP

"Since Megaton Golem was destroyed, I can activate the effect of Welding Fusion in my Graveyard." SOL SAD #1 said. "By banishing it and Megaton Golem, I can place the Fusion Materials used for its summon from the banish zone to the Graveyard."

"Another defense, huh?" Natura grimaced. "In that case, I'll place a card face-down and end my turn. During the End Phase, Riryoku's effect wears off."

Ritual Beast Ulti-Aperilla ATK 4650→2500

"My turn." SOL SAD #1 announced. "I draw. I activate the Spell Card: Card of Burial Magic, banishing Polymerization, Geartown and Ancient Gear Catapult to draw two cards. Then, I pay half my Life Points to activate the Spell Card: Cybernetic Fusion Support."

SOL Security AI Duelist: 1100→550 LP

"What?" Natura asked. "Why would you do that?"

"Because in exchange, if I Fusion Summon a Machine monster this turn," SOL SAD #1 explained, "I can banish monsters from my hand, field, and Graveyard as the materials." Natura's eyes widened. "Then, I activate the Spell Card: Ancient Gear Fusion. Through its effect, I can Fusion Summon an "Ancient Gear" Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck. Using Cybernetic Fusion Support's effect, I fuse Ancient Gear Golem, Ultimate Pound, Howitzer and Megaton Golem in my Graveyard!"

The four monsters reappeared on his field before disintegrating into red, blue, orange and green particles. The particles swirled into a vortex before four different-colored tornados burst out. The tornados merged into a single violet twister.

"Mechanized weapons of war that inherited the ancient soul. Become one now in the vortex of chaos and transform into a herald of destruction. I Fusion Summon. Appear. Ancient Gear Catastrophe Meltdown Dragon."

An imposing mechanical dragon with an exposed reactor that pulsating attached to its torso, several gears with energy orbs jutting from various parts of its body, mechanical wings with cannons attached to them and crimson energy lines running through its body appeared on SOL SAD #1's field, letting out a loud screech.

Ancient Gear Catastrophe Meltdown Dragon ATK 4800 DEF 4000 LVL: 12

"I will send Ancient Gear Gadget from my hand to the Graveyard to activate Catastrophe Meltdown Dragon's effect." SOL SAD #1 stated. "Through it, I can destroy all cards on my opponent's field and inflict 300 points of damage to them for each destroyed card. And since my monster is unaffected by my opponent's card effects, any card you play is useless here."

The cannons on Catastrophe Meltdown Dragon's wings aimed forward, unleashing a barrage of blasts that destroyed Natura's cards and struck her body, causing him to grimace in pain.

Natura: 1000→100 LP

"Through its effect, Catastrophe Meltdown Dragon gains attack points equal to the discarded monster's attack until the End Phase."

Ancient Gear Catastrophe Meltdown Dragon ATK 4800→5300

"Now, let's battle. Ancient Gear Catastrophe Meltdown Dragon attacks you directly. Nuclear Fission Torrent."

"Slow down, would you?" Natura said. "This duel is far from over. Let me show you why. From my hand, I activate the Trap Card: Defense Draw!"

"A Trap Card from the hand!?" SOL SAD #1 repeated. " You can't do that!"

"I can because of you," Natura explained. "You see, one of the cards you destroyed was the Trap Card: Cross-Counter Trap. And thanks to its effect, I can activate a Spell or Trap Card from my hand. And because of Defense Draw, I take no damage from your monster's attack!"

A hazy barrier appeared around Natura, shielding her from Meltdown Dragon's blast.

"Defense Draw's second effect lets me draw a card from my Deck."

"I end my turn with this." SOL SAD #1 said. "At this moment, Catastrophe Meltdown Dragon's effect expires, returning its attack points to normal."

Ancient Gear Catastrophe Meltdown Dragon ATK 5300→4800

"You fought well for a robot, but it's time to draw the curtain on this Duel," Natura stated. "My turn! I draw! I activate the Spell Card: Card of Demise, whose effect allows me to draw cards until I have five in my hand. Then, I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card: Trap Booster! I can activate a Trap Card from my hand by discarding a card. I activate the Trap Card: Return from the Different Dimension! By paying half my Life Points, I can Special Summon as many banished monsters as possible."

Natura: 100→50 LP

"Return to me, Aperilla and Esaw!"

Ritual Beast Tamer Esaw ATK 400 DEF 1300 LVL: 2

Spiritual Beast Aperilla ATK 1500 DEF 1000 LVL: 4

"I activate the Equip Spell Card: Living Fossil!" Natura continued. "Its effect allows me to Special Summon a monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated and its attack points reduced by 1000. Resurrect, Ritual Beast Ulti-Petashark!"

A wide crack appeared on the ground following Natura's words, which emerged Ulti-Petashark.

Ritual Beast Ulti-Petashark ATK 1800→800 DEF 1200

"Time for me to get truly serious," Natura stated as she clenched her fist. "I banish Ulti-Petashark, Tamer Esaw, and Aperilla to perform a Triple Contact Fusion!"

The three monsters turned into red, green, and yellow energy and swirled together into the Fusion vortex as Natura spread her arms.

"Spiritual bird of prey! Tamer of the wind! Beast of the plains! Enter the realm of the great spirits, and reveal a new power!" Natura chanted as she clasped her hands together. "I Fusion Summon! Come forth! The king of the spirits and beasts! Ritual Beast Ulti-Gaiapelio!"

The monster that emerged from the vortex was massive, at least three times larger than Ulti-Apelio had been. It had pale green skin, four legs, and the head of a lion. For its mane, it had a red flower, and there was a large tree on its back. Silver and black armor covered its legs, chest, and head. The black tubes attached to its armor were wreathed in fire, and an older version of Tamer Lara rode on its back. Ulti-Gaiapelio roared directly at Specter as it appeared on the field in Attack Position.

Ritual Beast Ulti-Gaiapelio ATK 3200 DEF 2100 LVL: 10

Natura smirked. "Now then, let's end this! I activate the Spell Card: Forced March! By halving Ulti-Gaiapello's attack points, it can attack you directly!"

Ritual Beast Ulti-Gaiapelio ATK 3200→1600

"Go, Ulti-Gaiapello! Attack the hunk of junk directly! Nature's Force!"

Ulti-Gaiapelio opened its maw and fired a large beam of energy. The beam struck the Security AI, making it break apart. By the time the beam faded, SOL SAD #1 and Meltdown Dragon were gone.

SOL Security AI Duelist: 550→0 LP

Natura smirked and clenched his fist. "Yes! Thanks to these new cards, the Top 10 won't stand a chance against us! Now, I should meet Umbra at the core."

Meanwhile…

Umbra stared back at his AI opponent. "I suppose this is a good opportunity," he mused. "I will finally get a chance to test out the new cards Dr. Willow constructed for me."

"Engaging trespasser. Commencing duel."

"Duel!"

Umbra: 4000 LP

SOL Security AI Duelist: 4000 LP

"I will take the first turn," SOL SAD #2 said. "I activate the effect of Switchyard Shunting Car." The card showed an eight-wheeled metal railway car that carried two electric circuit boxes with a yellow frame in between the two and metal railings docked on its edges. "By discarding it, I can add the Field Spell Card Revolving Switchyard to my hand." It took the card from its Deck, then said, "I activate the Field Spell Card: Revolving Switchyard."

A wave of light rippled from beneath the AI's feet, transforming the surrounding area into a train yard. Closed garage doors surrounded the two duelists, and spotlights illuminated the revolving track between them.

"Revolving Switchyard…?" Umbra repeated.

"This card has two effects, which I can activate once per turn," SOL SAD #2 explained. " I activate its second effect. By discarding Ruffian Railcar from my hand, I can add a Level 10 Earth Machine monster from my Deck to my hand. I'll add Heavy Freight Train Derricrane to my hand. And now I'll summon Lionhearted Locomotive."

A green train engine with a silver bumper at its front appeared.

Lionhearted Locomotive ATK 2400 DEF 2100 LVL: 4

"A monster with 2400 ATK right off the bat?!" Umbra said, surprised.

"I place two cards face-down and end my turn." SOL SAD #2 concluded. "And during the End Phase, my discarded Ruffian Railcar's effect activates, letting me add a Level 10 Earth Machine monster from my Deck to my hand. I'll add Snow Plow Hustle Rustle."

So it uses a Train Deck. Umbra thought to himself. Their strategy revolves around Xyz Summoning Rank 10 Xyz Monsters and performing an OTK with their high ATK and aggressive, blunt effects. However, it's usually played as a going-second deck. Regardless, it should be no match for me.

Umbra placed his hand over his Duel Disk. "My turn! I draw! First, I activate the Continuous Spell Card: Dark World Arena!" The card showed a torn-down battle area within a castle with Brron, Mad King of Dark World, sitting on a throne with Scarr, Scout of Dark World and Snoww, Unlight of Dark World, on each side. In the ring, Zure, Knight of Dark World, fought against Freed the Brave Wanderer. "As long as this card is on the field, all "Dark World" monsters I control gain 200 attack and defense points. In addition, whenever an effect discards a "Dark World" monster from my hand, it's treated as having been discarded by an opponent's card effect. Next, I activate the Spell Card: Dark World Misdirection. Thanks to its effect, if I control no monsters while my opponent does, I can send two cards from my hand to the Graveyard and treat them as having been discarded by an opponent's card effect." Umbra slid two cards into his Graveyard. "The first card I discarded was Broww, Huntsman of Dark World, whose effect allows me to draw two cards from my Deck since it's treated as having been sent there by your card effect. My second card is Lucent, Netherlord of Dark World, whose effect allows me to Special Summon it!"

A humanoid pink and purple fiend monster appeared and roared.

Lucent, Netherlord of Dark World ATK 2400→2600 DEF 0→200 LVL: 6

"Furthermore, Lucent's second effect also activates, allowing me to Special Summon a "Dark World" Monster from my Deck on either player's field." Umbra continued. "I will Special Summon Sepphia, Fighter of Dark World!"

A large demonic humanoid wearing a sapphire-colored fighter's Gi appeared alongside Lucent.

Sepphia, Fighter of Dark World ATK 2300→2500 DEF 1400→1600 LVL: 5

"I place a card face-down," Umbra said. "And before I attack, I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card: Anti-Magic Arrows! This card will prevent us from activating Spell or Trap Cards for the rest of the turn. Now, let's battle! Sepphia, attack Lionhearted Locomotive!"

Sepphia charged forward, striking Locomotive with its fist, destroying it in an explosion.

SOL Security AI Duelist: 4000→3900 LP

"Next, Lucent will attack you directly!"

"Your move is inferior." SOL SAD #2 stated. "I activate the effect of Snow Plow Hustle Rustle in my hand. By destroying both my Set cards, I can immediately Special Summon it in response to a direct attack!"

"What?! Umbra exclaimed.

A door slid behind the AI, bringing a giant red train with a snow plow attached. The track it was on took it straight to SOL SAD #2's face-down cards, two copies of Dummy Marker, which it smashed straight through them without stopping.

Snow Plow Hustle Rustle ATK 2500 DEF 3000 LVL: 10

"That's not all. You now take 200 damage per card destroyed this way."

Following the AI's words, Umbra winced as the train zoomed past him, pelting him with shards of the destroyed Trap Cards.

Umbra: 4000→3600 LP

"Furthermore, the effects of the two destroyed Dummy Marker activate." SOL SAD #2 stated. "I get to draw a card from my Deck. Since two copies were destroyed, I draw two cards."

Umbra frowned as his opponent drew. "Then, the other effect of Revolving Switchyard activates." The track brought Hustle Rustle back to SOL SAD #2's side, where it stopped. "Once per turn, if a Level 10 Earth Machine monster is Normal or Special Summoned, I can Special Summon a Level 4 Earth Machine monster with 1800 or more attack points from my Deck and make it Level 10. Come out, Express Train Trolley Olley."

A red train engine with black coal cars appeared in Attack Position.

Express Train Trolley Olley ATK 1800 DEF 1000 LVL: 4→10

"It now has two Level 10 monsters," Umbra muttered. "However, it made the foolish mistake of summoning its new monster in Attack Position." Umbra gestured to his field. "Since a new monster was summoned, a replay occurs. And this time, I'll have Lucent attack Express Train Trolley Olley!"

"That won't work either," SOL SAD #2 stated. "When your monster declares an attack, I can Special Summon this card from my hand and force your monster to attack it. Come on out, Construction Train Signal Red."

A pair of green buffers set into an orange and yellow machine appeared in Defense Position.

Construction Train Signal Red ATK 1000 DEF 1300 LVL: 3

Umbra gritted his teeth as Lucent changed its target to Signal Red and punched it.

"On top of that, Signal Red can't be destroyed by this battle," the Security Duelist added.

Umbra growled. "I have no choice but to end my turn."

"My turn! I draw!" SOL SAD #2 drew. "I activate the effect of Switchyard Shunting Car from my Graveyard. Since I control Revolving Switchyard in my Field Zone, I can Special Summon it in Defense Position and change its Level to 10!"

A portal appeared on the ground with Switchyard Shunting Car emerging.

Switchyard Shunting Car ATK 1800 DEF 1000 LVL: 4→10

"Four Level 10 monsters!" Umbra said, surprised.

"I overlay my Level 10 Hustle Rustle and Trolley Olley!"

A bolt of blue energy shot out of SOL SAD #2's Duel Disk and created the Xyz cross. Its two monsters turned into data and entered the cross. The ends shot beams of light, creating a galaxy. "Xyz Summon! Appear! Rank 10! Superdreadnought Rail Cannon Gustav Max!"

A truly massive machine emerged from the portal. Its base was red and gray, and its top half comprised numerous green blocks. Two orange lights orbited the machine as it was summoned in Attack Position.

Superdreadnought Rail Cannon Gustav Max ATK 3000 DEF 3000 RNK: 10 OU: 2

"Now I activate the effect of Express Train Trolley Olley!" SOL SAD #2 declared. "When used as Xyz Material, it grants the summoned Xyz Monster an effect that gives it an extra 800 attack points!"

Superdreadnought Rail Cannon Gustav Max ATK 3000→3800

"Moving on, I activate the Spell Card: Resonance Device!" SOL SAD #2 continued. "I target two of my monsters with the same Type and Attribute and change the Level of one to the Level of the other. I target Shunting Car and Signal Red and change the latter's Level to the former's."

Construction Train Signal Red LVL: 3→10

"I overlay Level 10 Shunting Car and Signal Red! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 10! Superdreadnought Rail Cannon Gustav Max!"

From out of the portal, a second giant train trundled onto the field, stopping just behind the first.

Superdreadnought Rail Cannon Gustav Max ATK 3000 DEF 3000 RNK: 10 OU: 2

"Two Rank 10 Xyz Monsters..." Umbra muttered.

"I activate Gustav Max's effect!" SOL SAD#2 declared. "Once per turn, I can detach an Overlay Unit to inflict 2000 points of damage!"

Superdreadnought Rail Cannon Gustav Max OU: 2→1

The monster's body opened up and extended a massive cannon. One of the lights entered the barrel. It charged and fired a powerful beam at Umbra.

"I don't think so!" Umbra shouted. "I activate the Continuous Trap Card: Translocation Damage! Through its effect, once during either player's turn, if I'm about to receive effect damage, I can send a card from the top of my Deck to the Graveyard to reduce that damage to 0!"

The beam shot past Umbra's shoulder and hit the far wall, with him showing no reaction.

"Change of plans then." the Security AI stated. "I'll now use my second Gustav Max's effect! Using an Overlay Unit to inflict 2000 points of damage!"

The powerful beam erupted from Gustav Max's stuck Umbra, making his scream in pain as he was forced to one knee.

Superdreadnought Rail Cannon Gustav Max OU: 2→1

Umbra: 3600→1600 LP

"Battle! Gustav Max No. 1, attack Sepphia!"

The cannon charged and fired another shot, tearing through the Dark World monster. Umbra grunted as the shockwave hit him.

Umbra: 1600→1100 LP

"Next, Gustav Max No. 2 attacks Lucent!"

"Not so fast. I activate the effect of Necro Guardna in my graveyard!" Umbra countered. "I remove it from play to negate your monster's attack!"

A ghostly figure of a white-haired, armored man appeared and blocked Gustav Max's attack.

"Opponent escaped defeat," SOL SAD #2 said. "I place one card face-down and end my turn."

"Then, it's my turn!" Umbra declared. "I draw!"

Checking out his hand, Umbra couldn't help but smile. The path towards victory was wide open with his current hand.

"Time for me to end this. First, I activate the Spell Card: Card Destruction. Thanks to its effect, all players discard the cards in their hands and draw new cards equal to the amount of discarded cards."

Upon drawing his new cards, Umbra gestured to his field. "Two of the cards I discarded were Quoisse, Sharpshooter of Dark World, and Vellve, Temptress of Dark World, whose effects allow me to Special Summon them when discarded!"

Two new monsters appeared on Umbra's field. One was a turquoise-colored female humanoid wearing stealth-like robes and wielding a sniper, and the other was a velvet-colored female humanoid wearing an elegant yet raggy dress and a small crown.

Quoisse, Sharpshooter of Dark World ATK 2400→2600 DEF 1600→1800 LVL: 6

Vellve, Temptress of Dark World ATK 1600→1800 DEF 300→500 LVL: 4

"That's not all! Thanks to Dark World Arena, Quoisse and Vellve are treated as having been discarded by an opponent's card effect, which triggers their effects!" Umbra continued. "First, since an opponent's card effect discarded Quoisse, the attack points of all your Special Summoned monsters are halved!"

Superdreadnought Rail Cannon Gustav Max ATK 3000→1500 x 2

"Next is Vellve's effect, which lets me Special Summon a "Dark World" monster from my Graveyard. Return, Sepphia!"

Sepphia, Fighter of Dark World ATK 2300→2500 DEF 1400→1600 LVL: 5

Umbra raised his right hand. "It's time to demonstrate my newest evolution! I overlay the Level 6 Lucent and Quoisse!"

Umbra's Duel Disk released a burst of violet energy, creating the Xyz cross. The two monsters entered the cross, firing several beams of light and creating a galaxy as Umbra chanted.

"Emerge onto the battlefield with shrieking cries of battle! Cut down your enemies and show no mercy! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 6! Ghry, Footsoldier of Dark World!"

The monster that emerged from the galaxy was a grey-skinned humanoid cladded in matching heavy grey armor wielding a small arm shield and ax. Two violet lights circled behind the monster as it was summoned to Umbra's field in Attack Position.

Ghry, Footsoldier of Dark World ATK 2500 DEF 2000 RNK: 6 OU: 2

"I detach an Overlay Unit from Ghry to activate its effect!" Umbra announced. "Through it, I can target one monster on your field and return it to the hand. I return one of your Superdreadnought Rail Cannons to the Extra Deck!"

Superdreadnought Rail Cannon Gustav Max OU: 2→1

Ghry aimed its shield as a small compartment opened, firing a bomb that struck Gustav Max, causing it to vanish from the field.

"After Ghry's effect resolves, I have to discard a card from my hand," Umbra said as he discarded a card. "And since the card I discarded was Reign-Beaux, Overlord of Dark World, I can Special Summon it via its effect!"

A massive black fiend monster with giant dragon wings carrying a two-pronged staff appeared on Umbra's field.

Reign-Beaux, Overlord of Dark World ATK 2500→2700 DEF 1800→2000 LVL: 7

"That's not all! Since your card effect made me discard him, Reign-Beaux's second effect activates! I can destroy all of your monsters or Spell and Trap Cards!" Umbra stated. "And naturally, I destroy your monsters!"

Reign-Beaux's chest glowed as it unleashed a rainbow-colored blast that obliterated every one of Brave Battler's monsters off the field.

"Now you're defenseless!" Umbra exclaimed.

SOL SAD #2 gestured to its field. "Trap activate! Xyz Reborn! I Special Summon an Xyz Monster from my Graveyard and attach Xyz Reborn to it as an Overlay Unit. Resurrect, Gustav Max!"

The massive machine reappeared in Attack Position, a single orange light circling it.

Superdreadnought Rail Cannon Gustav Max ATK 3000 DEF 3000 RNK: 10 OU: 1

Umbra's expression didn't change. "That was expected of you. And this is expected of me. I activate the Equip Spell Card: Burning Soul Sword and equip it to Reign-Beaux!"

Reign-Beaux's halberd vanished and was replaced by a large blade made of red metal and shaped in a way that resembled fire. He held it menacingly.

"Allow me to explain this card's effect," Umbra said with a wicked smile. "I can Tribute monsters I control to increase the equipped monster's attack points equal to the combined attack points of the monsters Tributed through its effect!" He gestured to his field. "I Tribute Sepphia, Vellve and Ghry to increase Reign-Beaux's attack points!"

The three Dark World monsters vanished into flames, and the flames flowed into the Burning Soul Sword. Reign-Beaux's skin turned metallic and golden as a fiery red aura appeared around him!

Reign-Beaux, Overlord of Dark World ATK 2700→9700

"Reign-Beaux, Overlord of Dark World, attack Gustav Max!" Umbra declared. "Devilish Vacuum Wave!"

Reign-Beaux raised its staff and slashed the large machine in half, destroying it in a massive explosion. The explosion hit the AI head-on and disintegrated it.

SOL Security AI Duelist: 3900→0 LP

Umbra scoffed. "Hardly a challenge."

A while later…

Natura rode her D-Board up to the entrance of the data core and blinked. Umbra was already there.

"What took you so long?"

"It took me a while to get through the Data Storm," Natura said defensively. "Though I didn't see any more Security AIs."

"Then it seems the virus was successful. Let us hurry. There is no point dawdling."

Natura nodded and followed into the data core. They approached the central processor and watched it open up, allowing them access.

"You plant the virus. I will keep watch."

Following Umbra's orders, Natura stepped up to the core and started pressing buttons on her Duel. Suddenly, a black-colored reverse pyramid surrounded by red data bits materialized and was inserted into the core.

"Question. Will it work?" Natura asked hesitantly. "SOL and the Top 10 are very thorough. You'd think they would have some strong firewall or program installed."

"I considered that." Umbra's eyes narrowed. "They do. But luckily for us, they were shut off during the update, meaning our virus should have no problem turning off the use of Action Fields."

Natura smiled. "I like the sound of that," she said. "Alright. Should we get out of here?"

"Affirmative." The two turned and headed for the exit, their mission complete.

OC Card Memo:

Yuji:

Shitorinryu
Attribute: WIND Type: [Dragon/Tuner/Normal] ATK 1800 DEF 1700 Level: 4
A majestic dragon, made out of Citrine that moves with swift speed and striking power.

Scarlett:

Solstice Pyromancer
Attribute: FIRE Type: [Spellcaster/Gemini/Effect] ATK 1700 DEF 1000 Level: 4
This card is treated as a Normal Monster while face-up on the field or in the Graveyard. While this card is face-up on the field, you can Normal Summon it to have it become an Effect Monster with this effect. ●When this card destroys an opponent's monster by battle and sends it to the Graveyard: You can target 1 FIRE monster in your Graveyard; Special Summon that target in face-up Defence Position.

Solstice Witch
Attribute: FIRE Type: [Spellcaster/Gemini/Effect] ATK 1600 DEF 1300 Level: 4
This card is treated as a Normal Monster while face-up on the field or in the Graveyard. While this card is face-up on the field, you can Normal Summon it to have it treated as an Effect Monster with this effect: ●Once per turn; Special Summon 1 "Solstice" monster from your Deck.

Solstice Guru
Attribute: FIRE Type: [Spellcaster/Gemini/Normal] ATK 2900 DEF 2750 Level: 9
A Spellcaster casts waves of fire to confuse and frighten its enemies before attacking. He is the only one left alive who is familiar with the lore surrounding the disappearance of the Solstice magicians.

Solstice High Sage
Attribute: FIRE Type: [Spellcaster/Gemini/Effect] ATK 2800 DEF 3200 Level: 9
This card is treated as a Normal Monster while face-up on the field or in the Graveyard. While this card is face-up on the field, you can Normal Summon it to have it treated as an Effect Monster with this effect: ●Once per turn, during either player's turn: You can Tribute 1 other face-up Gemini monster; Special Summon 1 "Solstice" monster (except "Solstice High Sage") from your Deck.

Hyperalloy Sovereign Neptunios
Attribute: LIGHT Type: [Dragon/Fusion/Effect] ATK 1600 DEF 1300 Level: 11
"Superalloy" Fusion Monster + 2 Gemini monsters with different names

Must be Fusion Summoned and cannot be Special Summoned by other ways. All face-up Gemini Monsters on the field are treated as Effect Monsters, and gain their effects. Once per turn, you can send 1 Gemini Monster from your hand or your field, to the GY; for the rest of this turn after this effect resolves, your opponent cannot activate cards or effects. If this face-up card you control leaves your field by a opponent's card (by battle or by card effect): You can return this card to your Extra Deck, then target 1 Gemini monster in your GY, Special Summon it, also that monster are treated as Effect Monster, and gain their effects, while face-up on the field. You can only use each effect of "Hyperalloy Sovereign Raptinus" once per turn, and can only control 1 "Hyperalloy Sovereign Raptinus".

Great Phoenixian Blitz

Normal Spell Card
Target 1 face-up FIRE monster you control; destroy that target, and if you do, Special Summon 1 FIRE monster from your hand or Deck. You cannot Special Summon other monsters (except FIRE monsters) during the turn you activate this card.

Anti-Magic Spear Gae Dearg

Counter Trap Card

If your opponent activates a Spell or a Trap Card, you can negate its activation and destroy it. This card can be activated from your hand if you control a Spellcaster-type Monster. When an opponent's monster activates its effect, you can banish this card from your Graveyard to negate that effect's activation.

Causality Reversal

Normal Trap Card

When a monster you control battles an opponent's monster with a higher ATK, you can make your monster's ATK equal to that monster's ATK plus 1000. During the Battle Phase's end, take damage equal to the difference between your monster's original and current attack.

Natura:

Ritual Beast Tamer Esaw
Attribute: WIND Type: [Psychic/Effect] ATK 400 DEF 1300 Level: 2
Once per turn: You can banish 1 "Ritual Beast" monster from your hand; draw 2 cards. If you draw a "Ritual Beast" monster(s) this way: Special Summon 1 of those "Ritual Beast" monsters, otherwise send both cards to the Graveyard. You can only Special Summon "Ritual Beast Tamer Esaw(s)" once per turn.

Spiritual Beast Petashark
Attribute: WIND Type: [Psychic/Effect] ATK 2300 DEF 500 Level: 5
Once per turn: You can banish 1 "Ritual Beast" monster from your Graveyard; this turn, if this card attacks a Defense Position monster, inflict piercing damage to your opponent. You can only Special Summon "Spiritual Beast Petashark(s)" once per turn.

Ritual Beast Ulti-Petashark

Attribute: WIND Type: [Aqua/Fusion/Effect] ATK 1800 DEF 1200 Level: 6

1 "Ritual Beast Tamer" monster + 1 "Spiritual Beast" monster

Must be Special Summoned (from your Extra Deck) by banishing the above cards you control, and cannot be Special Summoned by other ways. (You do not use "Polymerization".) When this card inflicts battle damage: You can add 1 "Ritual Beast" card from your Deck to your hand. (Quick Effect): You can return this card you control to the Extra Deck, then target 2 of your banished monsters (1 "Ritual Beast Tamer" monster and 1 "Spiritual Beast" monster); Special Summon them in Defense Position.

Umbra:

Ghry, Footsoldier of Dark World

Attribute: DARK Type: [Fiend/Xyz/Effect] ATK 2500 DEF 2000 Rank: 6

2 Level 6 Fiend-Type monsters

If this card destroys an opponent's monster by battle: You can target 1 "Dark World" monster in your Graveyard; add it to your hand. Once per turn: You can detach 1 Xyz Material from this card, then target 1 monster your opponent controls; return it to the hand, then discard 1 card. During the turn's End Phase, if this card is destroyed and sent to the Graveyard: You can add 1 "Dark World" monster from your Deck to your hand. Any "Dark World" monster discarded from your hand is treated as if it was discarded by an opponent's card effect.

Dark Worla Arena

Continuous Spell Card
All "Dark World" monsters you control gain 200 ATK and DEF. If a "Dark World" card is discarded from your hand to your GY while your opponent controls a monster: You can treat it as though it was discarded by your opponent's card effect. If out of all the monsters (if any) on your side of the field and in your Graveyard, there are any that are not "Dark World" monsters: destroy this card.

Translocation Damage

Continuous Trap Card

Once during either player's turn, when you're about to receive effect damage, you can send a card from the top of your Deck to the Graveyard in order to reduce that damage to 0.

Security AI:

Ancient Gear Catastrophe Meltdown Dragon

Attribute: EARTH Type: [Machine/Effect] ATK 4800 DEF 4000 Level: 12

This card must be Fusion Summoned and cannot be Special Summoned by other ways. This card is unaffected by your opponent's card effects, also negate the effects of the opponent's Monsters this card battles with. Once per turn, you can send an "Ancient Gear" monster from your hand to the Graveyard in order to destroy all cards on your opponent's field and inflict 300 points of damage to them for each destroyed card, then increase this card's ATK by an amount equal to the discarded Monster's ATK. If this card is destroyed, you can Special Summon one of its Fusion Materials from your Graveyard by ignoring its summoning conditions.

Welding Fusion

Normal Spell Card

Fusion Summon an "Ancient Gear" Fusion Monster by banishing "Ancient Gear" monsters from your field and/or Graveyard. If the Fusion Monster summoned by this card's effect is destroyed, you can banish this card and that monster from your Graveyard in order to return its materials from your banish zone back to the Graveyard.

Ancient Gear Union

Equip Spell Card

Target an "Ancient Gear" Fusion Monster in your Graveyard; equip it to an "Ancient Gear" monster you control and increase the equipped Monster's ATK by an amount equal to that Fusion Monster's ATK.

Ancient Gear Bargain

Normal Trap Card

If an "Ancient Gear" Fusion Monster you control is destroyed, draw two cards from your Deck. If you had no cards on your hand when you activated this card, draw two more cards from your Deck.

Scrap Barricade

Normal Trap Card

If "Ancient Gear" monsters on your field were destroyed, you can activate this effect; halve all damage you receive for the remainder of this turn.

Switchyard Shunting Car

Attribute: EARTH Type: [Machine/Effect] ATK 1800 DEF 1000 Level: 4

You can discard this card from your hand; add 1 "Revolving Switchyard" from your Deck to your hand. If "Revolving Switchyard" is in the Field Zone: You can Special Summon this card from your GY in Defense Position, and if you do, this card's level becomes 10 until the End Phase. You can only use 1 "Switchyard Shunting Car" effect per turn, and only once that turn.