This story was done in collaboration between me, Jriddle41 (Sodormatchmaker on DeviantART), and DaveMan1000 (both here and on DeviantART), and we own the OCs that are used in the story. AaronCottrell97 (known as stevecottrell on DeviantART) provided the Duel Layouts and additional ideas. Everything else belongs to their respective owners:
Thomas and Friends (c) Hit Entertainment and Mattel
The Railway Series (c) Rev Wilbert Awdry
Yu-Gi-Oh! (c) Konami
Gundam SEED characters, Orb, Blue Cosmos, M1 Astray, Strike Rouge, Murasame, Akatsuki (c) Sunrise
Character of Lisa Drake (c) DaveMan1000
Character of David Xadashi (c) DaveMan1000
Jak and Daxter characters, Spargus, Tough Puppy, Sand Shark, Dune Hopper, Gila Stomper, Slam Dozer, Heat Seeker, Dust Demon, Desert Screamer (c) Naughty Dog
Crash Bandicoot characters, Wumpa (c) Activision
Ratchet & Clank characters, Veldin, Sargasso, Shatterbomb (c) Insomniac
Sly Cooper characters (c) Sucker Punch
WARNING: Once again, this story is rated T for violence, some blood, suggestive themes, and some language. Reader discretion is advised.
WARNING 2: If you haven't read "Yu-Gi-Oh! The Sodor Chronicles Season 2", "Yu-Gi-Oh! The Sodor Chronicles Season 4", "Yu-Gi-Oh! The Sodor Chronicles (Pyramid of Light", "David Xadashi", "Lisa Drake", or "Team 4D's", you might want to do so before reading this story
Title: What We Lost in the Fire
Opening up within one of Orb's cafeterias during breakfast the next day, everyone was absolutely silent from a sleepless night since it's been several long hours since Rutger, Clotho, Orga, and Shani were defeated. The only person absent from the meal was Matt, and everyone left wondering where he was—considering he learned what Dr. Fudo, his (Matt) Father, did in order to create the Ultimate Coordinator a long time ago, nobody actually blamed him for not showing up to eat.
"Damn… Matt's so shaken by the discovery of his life that he's lost the will to fight," grumbled Zack.
"Matt…" muttered James R., feeling bad for his friend.
"He won't stay that way," The voice of Michael cut in, getting the attention of James R. and everyone else. He (Michael) looked determined to pelt some sense into Matt, "I'll do it the same way I did to help Lisa."
"You're gonna try-?" questioned Lisa, before shaking his head, "Mike, don't take this the wrong way, but…" Michael looked at her, "…that might not be a smart plan for an occasion like this."
"What are you implying?" frowned Michael.
"Lisa-chan is right," agreed David, "She only lost her self confidence after losing to the robot duplicate of you, Atlas-sama."
A number of flashbacks ensued.
FLASHBACK
During the end of Flashback Lisa and Flashback Fake Michael's Turbo Duel…
"Absolute Power Flame!" The voice of Flashback Fake Michael roared.
As the effect name was bellowed, 'Scarlight Red Dragon Archfiend' went and held its flaming right fist out—which sent a wave of fire and burned both 'Ancient Fairy Dragon' and 'Naturia Barkion' alive and on contact, leaving Flashback Lisa's whole field completely empty as the fire died down and her LP dropped by 1000 as a result of having two of her Special Summoned monsters destroyed (LP: 4000 → 3000). It was then Flashback Fake Michael turned fake Wheel of Fortune turned towards his enemy (whilst still driving down the expressway ahead) once again, ready to put an end to the duel with one direct attack. The sinister smile on the imposter's face seemed to really scare Flashback Lisa as she realized the horrifying truth about her opponent's strategy.
"And now, I'll attack directly with 'Scarlight Red Dragon Archfiend!" commanded Flashback Fake Michael, as his ace monster flew above Wheel of Fortune again and leaned its head back, "Scorching Crimson Hell Burning!"
'Scarlight Red Dragon Archfiend' obeyed the echoed command, breathing out a powerful jet of orange/red flames at the vulnerable Strike Rouge. Flashback Lisa, unable to do anything to evade the approaching attack, could only look on in sheer terror.
"Stop it," whispered Flashback Lisa, just before unleashing a huge scream as the fire attack collided with her, "STOP IT!"
*KABOOM!*
The powerful attack resulted in Strike Rouge exploding, which threw the screaming Flashback Lisa and her Duel Runner straight off the expressway into the air before falling and sinking into the East River. Within the water, both Flashback Lisa and the utterly trashed Strike Rouge sank deeper and deeper with the former being completely stunned that she had been defeated by Fake Michael and 'Scarlight Red Dragon Archfiend' (LP: 3000 → 0). Soon after Flashback Lisa was rescued, she and Flashback David looked out into the river, where her Strike Rouge now rested
"But Fudo-san learned of his full origins and what Dr. Fudo had done to make him the Ultimate Coordinator," narrated David, as Flashback Lisa collapsed into his flashback self's arms, "Dr. Fudo was also Dus-san's Father!"
(new scene…)
During the duel between Flashback Matt and Flashback Rutger…
"Along with your Father, Dr. Fudo," rambled Flashback Rutger, "you were the biggest target of humanity at the time, after all."
"What… but…" stammered Flashback Matt, finding this to not make any sense.
"But you survived, grew up," Flashback Rutger went on, as faded stills of him, Flashback Rex, and Flashback Dr. Fudo tirelessly working on the Ultimate Coordinator project were superimposed over him, "and went on to become one of the greatest duelists in the world! Why do you think that is? You've even led me to want to believe…in their crazy dream."
"I'm what? What are you trying to say about me?" croaked Flashback Matt, wanting to know the truth. On the other end of the cliff, Flashback Michael listened to his (Flashback Matt) demand for answers, "What are you trying to tell me?"
Flashback Rutger smiled, knowing that his enemy was about to break when the truth came out.
"So, you want to know what you really are?" The Dark Signer leader joked in a sick way, "Very well, I'll tell you, Yamato Fudo… You are the dream of humanity. The Ultimate Coordinator!"
Cue gasps from Flashback Matt and everyone else on the other end of the cliff.
"It was in pursuit of that dream that Dr. Fudo first started the process of enhancing the continuing project," revealed Flashback Rutger, as more faded stills of the past (mainly the Ultimate Coordinator project and its setbacks) were superimposed over him, "And you were the only viable child it ever produced. For that reason, a very large number of your siblings and their Mothers were sacrificed…" He spread his arms out like a maniac, just as the faded stills ceased, "…all in the name of science!"
Flashback Matt fell to his knees, feeling extremely sick over discovering that his (Flashback Matt) own Father would go so far as to thoughtlessly kill women and children just to give his (Flashback Dr. Fudo) soon-to-be-born son the greatest gift of all. The sight of Flashback Matt beginning to crack greatly amused Flashback Rutger.
"You lie…" uttered Flashback Matt, "What you're saying is a lie… My Father… he would never do something so sick and twisted!"
"HA HA HA HA HA! It's no lie! Rex and I were there, helping in the creation of the most perfect Coordinator!" cackled Flashback Rutger, while the group listened to the ramblings of a truly insane individual, "We thirsted for knowledge. We sought to fulfill their desires. And ultimately, we forgot why we were doing it. Even as we proclaimed our reverence for human life, we began toying with it," He swung his right arm about dramatically, "And then we began destroying it!"
END FLASHBACK
The flashbacks ended.
"I'm aware of that and more, Dave," insisted Michael, confident he could pull it off, "However… It won't stop me from trying!"
(elsewhere…)
While breakfast was going on… Inside Matt's dorm, he was alone and busy laying on his bed, looking at the ceiling, and brooding. He was thinking about how Dr. Fudo, his (Matt) own Father, killed women and unborn children to give another unborn child the greatest gift of all. His thoughts were soon interrupted when there was a knock on the door.
"Who could that be?" thought Matt, looking at the door, "Come in."
The door opened, and Michael, James R., and Ashima walked inside. Matt blinked as he waited to hear what brought them here. Ashima started to say something, but then felt a hand being placed on her shoulder—which she noticed came from James R., who shook his head as if to silently tell her to let Michael speak instead. Initially concerned, Ashima nodded back and did as she was told.
"Matt, I challenge you to a duel with neither of us holding back," requested Michael
Matt looked surprised.
"A Turbo Duel will do you a world of good," The voice of Michael went on, before he was shown clenching his right hand into a fist, "Only you, and you alone, can give me the challenge I continue to crave for!"
"You know, you've forgotten the one time where…OUCH!" James R. pointed out, only to feel his upper right arm being pinched by Ashima. He looked over with a pouty look, "What? What did I say wrong?"
Ashima sighed with annoyance. Matt and Michael, meanwhile, continued to stare at each other, with the latter waiting for the former to make a decision on whether or not to accept the challenge. At last, the decision was made.
"Fine then, Mike… I'll face you," nodded Matt.
Michael smirked, pleased to hear those words.
(elsewhere…)
An hour later, Orb's Turbo Duel stadium was filled with spectators invited to watch the duel between two dueling champions, both who hardly, if almost never in Matt's case, lost a duel. Among those watching were the remaining members of Team 6D's, Zack, Ashima, Rin, Mr. Zimmerman, Ms. Simmons, and Mr. Kisaka. On the track, Michael, riding Wheel of Fortune, and Matt, riding Fudo Go, were wearing their respective motorcyclist outfits and helmets and sharing a quick conversation before their match began.
"I will request you do this for me, Matt," said Michael, "Fight me with all of your power… Show me how truly powerful you are as the Ultimate Coordinator!"
"Mike…" whispered Matt.
After a brief beat, he nodded, and Michael nodded back. It was then both players pressed a button on their respective Duel Runners.
"Field Spell, 'High Speed…" started Michael.
"…World', set on!" finished Matt.
On the monitors of Wheel of Fortune and Fudo Go, a whole new Spell Card materialized and activated.
"Duel Mode, engaged," came a computerized voice aboard the two, respective Duel Runners, "Autopilot activated."
From there, both Duel Runners became surrounded by a purple dome as autopilot activated. The crowd burst into cheers as Mr. Zimmerman approached the podium and took hold of the microphone to address the crowd.
"Good morning, students and guests," began Mr. Zimmerman, "Today, we are holding a special exhibition match between two of the strongest duelists in the whole continent of North America!" Focus first went towards an unsettled Matt, and then towards Michael, "Matt Fudo…and Michael Atlas!"
As the cheering resumed, James R., Zack, and everyone else of Team 6D's watched anxiously to see what would happen in the duel. Finally, down on the track, the timer was counting down. Once it reached three seconds…
"Turbo Duel! Acceleration!" The voice of Mr. Zimmerman hollered.
Fudo Go and Wheel of Fortune took off down the track as both players drew their opening hands. As the Duel Runners reached the finish line, Michael took a look at his cards for barely a second before easing up the handles, causing Wheel of Fortune to slow down enough for Fudo Go to pass and cross first. In the stands, everyone gasped that Michael let Matt win the race for the first turn. Back on the track, the duel finally began.
"Duel!" Matt and Michael announced at the same time (LP: 4000) x2.
Once more in the stands, Ashima prayed that Michael would be able to help Matt regain his (Matt) will to fight the Dark Signers—or simply fight at all. Back on the track, Matt drew a card.
"It's my turn!" announced Matt.
Turn One: Matt Fudo (LP: 4000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Synchron Explorer", "Big One Warrior", "Synchro Deception", "Shield Wing", "Prevention Star", and "Backup Warrior"
Speed Counters: 0
His drawn card was a Monster Card called 'Backup Warrior', which he placed into his hand—containing 'Synchron Explorer', 'Big One Warrior', 'Synchro Deception', 'Shield Wing', and 'Prevention Star'. He then took one of the last cards ('Shield Wing') and placed it onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Runner (sideways).
"I Summon 'Shield Wing' in Defense Position!" Matt went on.
Appearing onto the field was the green bird-like creature with shields on its wings (Level: 2/ATK: 0/DEF: 900).
"I Set one card face-down…" As Matt spoke, he made a face-down card appear on the field in-front of Fudo Go as it faded away for later use, "…and end my turn!"
"Hmph! Already on the defense, huh?" huffed Michael, unimpressed, "You won't win against Michael Atlas with that kind of dueling!" He drew a card, "It's my turn!"
With it being the second turn, both players gained a Speed Counter:
-Matt: 0 → 1
-Michael: 0 → 1
Turn Two: Michael Atlas (LP: 4000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Assault Slash", "Half or Nothing", "Twin-Sword Marauder", "Dark Bug", "Sword Master", and "Lineage of Destruction"
Speed Counters: 1
Michael's drawn card was a Trap Card called 'Lineage of Destruction', one of his favorites back when he was North America's champion. He placed the card into his hand—which contained 'Assault Slash', 'Half or Nothing', 'Twin-Sword Marauder', 'Dark Bug', and 'Sword Master'. Michael then held up and looked at a card before addressing his opponent.
"Matt, I'll beat down anything standing in my way!" he boomed.
"Huh?" wondered Matt.
"I Summon…" began Michael, placing the card ('Twin-Sword Marauder') onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Disk, "…'Twin-Sword Marauder'…" He retracted his right hand, "…in Attack Position!"
Appearing on the field was the human male wielding twin swords (Level: 4/ATK: 1600/DEF: 1000).
"'Twin-Sword Marauder'!" remembered James R..
"Its first effect is a doozy!" added Lisa, before going over the first effect of 'Twin-Sword Marauder', "Once per Battle Phase, if this card attacks a Defense Position monster, it can make a second attack in a row."
"And there's 'Shield Wing's' effect," recalled Carlie, before going over the effect of 'Shield Wing', "Twice per turn, this card cannot be destroyed by battle."
"Fudo-san will get hit twice for major damage!" acknowledged David.
Back on the track…
"Battle!" announced Michael, entering the Battle Phase, "'Twin-Sword Marauder', attack 'Shield Wing'!" As 'Twin-Sword Marauder' charged into battle, he revealed his monster's second effect, "If this card attacks a Defense Position monster, I must inflict piercing battle damage!" He then announced the attack name, "Double Assault!"
'Twin-Sword Marauder' raised a sword and struck the defending 'Shield Wing', causing Matt to glow red and take damage from the attack (LP: 4000 → 3300). Rather than stop, 'Twin-Sword Marauder' raised his other sword and brought it down upon 'Shield Wing', delivering more damage to Matt (LP: 3300 → 2600). In the stands…
"He took some damage, but he managed to stave through, huh?" thought James R., "Don't relax too soon, Matt."
Back on the track, the Battle Phase should have been over by then—but it wasn't.
"If a Warrior monster I control attacks my opponent's monster, and the opponent's monster is not destroyed by battle, at the end…" As Michael spoke, he held up a new card ('Sword Master') "…of the Damage Step: I can Special Summon this card from my hand!" He placed the card onto his Duel Disk, "I Special Summon 'Sword Master' in Attack Position!"
Appearing on the field was a male, Arabian-styled Warrior monster wielding two swords (Level: 3/ATK: 1200/DEF: 0).
"An opponent that doesn't go down on two attacks will go down on the third!" warned Michael, before revealing his monster's second effect, "If this card attacks a Defense Position monster, I must inflict piercing battle damage! Go forth, 'Sword Master'!" As he announced his monster's attack name, 'Sword Master' approached 'Shield Wing' with both weapons, "Master Slash!"
*SLASH!*
In two mighty slashes, 'Shield Wing's' wings were clipped by 'Sword Master' before it shattered into shards of glass, causing Matt to shut his eyes and wince while losing more LP (LP: 2600 → 2300). The loss of heavy LP caused Fudo Go to slow down and allow Wheel of Fortune to pass. In the audience…
"This ain't shaping up good," groaned James R..
"Matt's off to a less than stellar start," agreed Lisa.
"The game's only begun," Carlie remarked, not losing any faith, "He'll definitely make a comeback before any of us know it."
Back on the track, two face-down cards materialized on the field around Wheel of Fortune.
"I Set two cards face-down…" declared Michael, as the Set cards faded away for later use, "…and end my turn!" He looked over his shoulder at his opponent, "Now, come at me, Matt! Don't hold back!"
"It's my turn!" exclaimed Matt, drawing a card.
Both players gained another Speed Counter:
-Matt: 1 → 2
-Michael: 1 → 2
Turn Three: Matt Fudo (LP: 2300)
Deck: 53
Current Hand (5): "Synchron Explorer", "Big One Warrior", "Prevention Star", "Backup Warrior", and "Junk Synchron"
Speed Counters: 2
Matt's drawn card was the 'Junk Synchron' Monster Card; a card he would play immediately.
"I Summon 'Junk Synchron'!" declared Matt, placing his drawn card onto his Duel Disk.
The orange, robotic-like monster appeared on the field (Level: 3/ATK: 1300/DEF: 500).
"When 'Junk Synchron' is Normal Summoned: I can target 1 Level 2 or lower monster in my GY; I must Special Summon that target in Defense Position, but negate its effects," explained Matt. He then held up a card ('Shield Wing') taken from his GY, "Resurrect, 'Shield Wing'!"
The green bird-like creature returned to the field (Level: 2/ATK: 0/DEF: 900). In the audience…
"A Level 3 Tuner and a Level 2 monster…" murmured Mr. Kisaka.
"'Junk Synchron' and 'Shield Wing'," realized Ashima.
"Will 'Junk Warrior' show up?" wondered Rin.
Back on the field, Michael was hoping 'Junk Warrior' would be Synchro Summoned—not because he (Michael) had a plan to deal with Matt's monster, but because it would mean Matt really was dueling with no holding back. Unfortunately, his hopes were dashed when Matt made a completely unrelated move.
"If there are two defending monsters on my field," The voice of Matt was saying, as focus went on the two occupied Monster Zones on his Duel Runner. He held up another card ('Backup Warrior') taken from his hand, "I can Special Summon this card from my hand!" With the swing of his right arm, the card was placed on the Duel Runner, "I Special Summon 'Backup Warrior'!"
Appearing on the field was a human male wearing army gear and wielding two large machine guns (Level: 5/ATK: 2100/DEF: 0).
"Next, I'll activate a Trap!" continued Matt, as his Set card flipped face-up on the field next to him (on his left) and revealed itself, "'Synchro Deception'! I must choose 1 Synchro Monster in my Extra Deck, then target 1 monster on my field; I must send the former to the GY, then, if all the Synchro Materials for the chosen monster are on my field, the latter gains ATK equal to half the ATK of the chosen Synchro Monster that was sent to the GY, until the end of this turn," As he (Matt) finished explaining, Michael listened with a look that mixed surprise and anger into one emotion, "Monsters other than the one that gained ATK by this effect cannot attack this turn."
"That's Matt's plan!" said Zack urgently, "He intends to send 'Junk Warrior' from the Extra Deck to the GY to power up 'Backup Warrior'!"
Back on the field, that's what happened. A card emerged from the Extra Deck, which Matt took and sent to the GY. And then, merging from the face-up 'Synchro Deception' Trap Card and onto the field, was the spirit of 'Junk Warrior'—who then merged with the smirking 'Backup Warrior' and started to give him a much needed power boost.
"'Backup Warrior's' ATK increases by 1150!" revealed Matt.
'Backup Warrior's' ATK went up (ATK: 2100 → 3250), and the Battle Phase began.
"'Backup Warrior' attacks 'Sword Master'!" ordered Matt, as 'Backup Warrior' started warping around the field as though he were teleporting, "With 1200 ATK, you will take 2050 damage!"
After 'teleporting' three times, 'Backup Warrior' took aim at the much weaker 'Sword Master'.
"Not good enough, Matt!" shouted Michael, making a move by causing his first Set card to reappear on the field in-front of Wheel of Fortune, "I activate a Trap, 'Half or Nothing'!"
The Set card flipped face-up and revealed itself.
"What?! 'Half or Nothing'?" gasped Matt.
"During my opponent's Battle Phase (except during the Damage Step): My opponent chooses 1 of these effects," explained Michael.
These were the effects written on the Trap Card in-question:
-"I must halve the ATK of all monsters they currently control, until the end of the Battle Phase!"
-"End the Battle Phase!"
Matt remained stunned in his (Matt) spot, while Michael patiently waited for what effect would be chosen. At last, Matt made a choice.
"I will resume my attack!" accepted Matt, "The ATK of 'Backup Warrior' will be halved!" Before he announced the attack name, 'Backup Warrior's' ATK was reduced (ATK: 3250 → 1625), "Support Attack!"
And 'Backup Warrior' opened fire upon 'Sword Master', destroying him. Michael was completely unfazed by the destruction of his monster since he drastically reduced the amount of damage he would have taken if he hadn't played his 'Half or Nothing' Trap Card (LP: 4000 → 3575). Back in the stands…
"Mike was well prepared for Matt's attack," noted Ms. Simmons, causing Mr. Kisaka and Rin to look in her direction, "He anticipated Matt would attack him with a high ATK monster, Synchro Summon or not, and Set 'Half or Nothing' in order to reduce the amount of damage he would have taken."
"Not only that," put in Mr. Kisaka, "Matt doesn't seem to be dueling at his usual strength."
"Not at his usual strength?" observed Rin, before looking back at the track as both Fudo Go and Wheel of Fortune were starting to ride along the walls, "I wonder… Could it be because of what he heard from Rutger?"
Over with Matt, his turn had ended, with the effects of the 'Half or Nothing' and 'Synchro Deception' Trap Cards wearing off on 'Backup Warrior' (ATK: 1625 → 2100).
"Matt!" The voice of Michael called out, getting Matt's attention, "Your attack was very weak! I specifically told you to not hold back!" He narrowed his eyes, "I will show you what happens when you deliberately hold back against the King!" A card was then drawn, "It's my turn!"
Both players gained another Speed Counter:
-Matt: 2 → 3
-Michael: 2 → 3
Turn Four: Michael Atlas (LP: 3575)
Deck: 53
Current Hand (3): "Assault Slash", "Dark Bug", and "Assault Mode Activate"
Speed Counters: 3
Without wasting a second, Michael placed a new card onto his Duel Disk.
"I Summon 'Dark Bug'!" began Michael.
Appearing on the field right behind Wheel of Fortune was a black Insect monster resembling a tetromino block (Level: 1/ATK: 100/DEF: 100).
"When 'Dark Bug' is Normal Summoned: I can target 1 Level 3 Tuner in my GY; I must Special Summon it, but negate its effects!" proclaimed Michael, revealing his monster's only effect, "I Special Summon 'Sword Master'!"
Reappearing on the field was 'Sword Master' (Level: 3/ATK: 1200/DEF: 0). Matt gritted his teeth, knowing what was coming next. Sure enough…
"I tune Level 4 'Twin-Sword Marauder'," The voice of Michael announced, as his three monsters soared into the air, "Level 1 'Dark Bug' into Level 3 'Sword Master'!"
Crossing his swords together, 'Sword Master' turned into three Synchro Rings, which 'Twin-Sword Marauder' and "Dark Bug' both entered at the same time before turning into five orbs of light (four for 'Twin-Sword Marauder' and one for "Dark Bug')—all while a Summon Chant from Michael was heard throughout.
"The ruler's heartbeats will now file through here! Take witness to its creation-shaking power!" chanted Michael, as the symbols 4 + 1 + 3 = 8 were shown briefly just before the five orbs of light within the three Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! My very soul, 'Red Dragon Archfiend'!"
Coming out of the beam of light, and flying into the sky, was the large and red-scaled dragon (Level: 8/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2000).
"Matt, let me show you how naive your ideas are!" roared Michael, entering the Battle Phase, "'Red Daemon's', attack 'Shield Wing'!" As he announced the attack name of his monster, 'Red Dragon Archfiend' lit its right claw on fire, "Absolute Powerforce!"
'Shield Wing' was impaled by the flaming claw. Matt scowled, knowing that, normally, 'Shield Wing' couldn't be destroyed by battle twice per turn—but he brought it back via 'Junk Synchron's' effect, meaning the effect was negated. The weakened 'Shield Wing' shattered into shards of glass, but that wasn't the worst bit.
"Matt, even you know that all defensive play is useless against the power of 'Red Dragon Archfiend'!" scolded Michael, before revealing his ace monster's first effect as 'Red Dragon Archfiend's' eyes started glowing red and it lit both its claws on fire, "After damage calculation, if this card attacked an opponent's Defense Position monster: I must destroy all Defense Position monsters my opponent controls!"
"Oh no!" cried Ashima.
"'Junk Synchron' will be destroyed, too!" came from David.
"Take this!" The voice of Michael yelled, as 'Red Dragon Archfiend' hurled both flames towards 'Junk Synchron' like fireballs, "Demon Meteor!"
The pair of fireballs collided with 'Junk Synchron' and destroyed it, too, leaving only 'Backup Warrior' behind.
"Next, I'll…" As Michael spoke, he made his remaining Set card reappear on the field in-front of Wheel of Fortune, which then flipped face-up and revealed itself, "…activate a Trap, 'Lineage of Destruction'! When I destroy a Defense Position monster my opponent controls: I must target 1 Level 8 monster I control; during this turn, the targeted monster can make a second attack in a row!" He narrowed his eyes dangerously, "That worthless piece of trash… It can just get out of my sight!" Yelling the attack name of his ace monster, 'Red Dragon Archfiend' lit its right claw on fire, soared into combat, and threw a fiery punch at the enemy monster, "Absolute Powerforce!"
'Backup Warrior' was no match for Absolute Powerforce, and exploded from destruction upon being hit. Matt yelled in pain as his LP took another big drop (LP: 2300 → 1400). With the Battle Phase over, Michael took and readied two cards from his hand.
"I Set two cards face-down and end my turn!" concluded Michael, slotting the cards into his Duel Disk. This caused two face-down cards to appear on the field in-front of Wheel of Fortune before fading away for later use, before he (Michael) addressed Matt again, "Matt, this is your last warning! Fight me with all of your power—unless you've become too scared to duel due to your old man having a hand in your origins!"
Matt gasped over being reminded of Dr. Fudo, growing increasingly defiant and desperate.
"I… I will duel!" stammered Matt, "I… I won't lose!" He drew a card, "It's my turn!"
Both players gained another Speed Counter:
-Matt: 3 → 4
-Michael: 3 → 4
Turn Five: Matt Fudo (LP: 1400)
Deck: 52
Current Hand (4): "Synchron Explorer", "Big One Warrior", "Prevention Star", and "A/D Changer"
Speed Counters: 4
Matt's drawn card was a Monster Card called 'A/D Changer'; knowing what to do, he added the card into his hand, and picked up another card ('Synchron Explorer') to play.
"I Summon 'Synchron Explorer'!" declared Matt.
Appearing on the field was a red robotic monster (Level: 2/ATK: 0/DEF: 700).
"'Synchron Explorer's' effect activates!" continued Matt, holding up a card ('Junk Synchron') taken from his GY, "When this card is Normal Summoned: I can target 1 'Synchron' monster in my GY; I must Special Summon that target, but negate its effects!" He placed it onto his Duel Runner, "Resurrect, 'Junk Synchron'!"
Reappearing on the field was 'Junk Synchron' (Level: 3/ATK: 1300/DEF: 500).
"Next, I'll activate the effect of 'Big One Warrior'!" As Matt said that, he held up a card ('A/D Changer') and sent it to the GY before placing another card ('Big One Warrior') onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Runner. And appearing on the field was a white and green-colored monster with the number '1' on his mask (Level: 1/ATK: 100/DEF: 100), "During my Main Phase: I can send 1 Level 1 monster, except this card, from my hand to the GY: I must Special Summon this card from my hand!"
"Will Matt finally try something worthy?" thought Michael, getting hopeful.
"From there, I'll activate the third effect of 'High Speed World'!" interrupted Matt.
"What?! 'High Speed World's' third effect?"
"Once per turn: I can…" The dirty blonde-haired young man went on, as his Speed Counter gauge went down (SPC: 4 → 0), "…remove 4 Speed Counters of my own, then reveal any number of Spell Cards in my hand; I must…" He held up a card ('Prevention Star') "…inflict 800 damage to my opponent for each card revealed!"
Michael gritted his teeth before glowing red, causing him to grimace and lose LP (LP: 3575 → 2775).
"I tune Level 2 'Synchron Explorer', Level 1 'Big One Warrior' into Level 3 'Junk Synchron'!" declared Matt.
'Junk Synchron' pulled on the cord on his armor, causing his motor backpack to start revving as his whole body started glowing a golden yellow. He then turned into three Synchro Rings, which 'Synchron Explorer' and 'Big One Warrior' soared into before turning into three orbs of light (two for 'Synchron Explorer', and one for 'Big One Warrior') as a new Summon Chant from Matt was heard.
"When wishes of steel gather round the messenger of the gale, that wish will become an invincible shield! Become the path its light shines upon!" chanted Matt, as the symbols 2 + 1 + 3 = 6 were shown briefly just before the three orbs of light within the three Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, which slammed onto Fudo Go on the track, "Synchro Summon! Appear now, 'Junk Gardna'!"
As the beam of light died down, appearing on the field was a large mechanical Warrior monster with two large green shields for armguards (Level: 6/ATK: 1400/DEF: 2600).
"I activate 'Junk Gardna's' first effect!" called Matt, "Once per turn (Quick Effect): I can target 1 monster my opponent controls; I must change its battle position!" He pointed forth, "Mike, your 'Red Daemon's' will immediately go into Defense Position!"
'Red Dragon Archfiend' found its body moving against its will as it went into a defensive stance (ATK: 3000 → DEF: 2000). Michael was not happy seeing such a, in his eyes, weak move. Even so, Matt was not finished.
"Then I'll activate the effect of 'A/D Changer'!" thundered Matt, as the mentioned Monster Card ejected from the GY and faded away into oblivion, "I can banish this card from my GY, then target 1 monster on the field; I must…" As the remains of the effect was being explained, 'Junk Gardna' found himself gratefully shifting into a more defensive stance (ATK: 1400 → DEF: 2600), "…change its battle position! I target my own 'Junk Gardna'!"
The audience watched as Matt was managing to turn the tide of the duel. But the turn still wasn't done…
"In addition, I'll activate the Equip Spell, 'Prevention Star'!" While speaking, Matt was shown with another card ('Prevention Star') in-between the index and middle fingers of his right hand. He slotted the card into his Duel Runner, causing the mentioned Spell Card to materialize face-up on the field, "I must equip only to a monster I control, if it was changed from face-up Attack Position to face-up Defense Position this turn. I must target 1 monster my opponent controls; that monster cannot attack or change its battle position. When the equipped monster is destroyed and this card is sent to the GY, I must banish the targeted monster!"
Michael said nothing.
"Mike, with my combo, your 'Red Daemon's' can no longer attack!" informed Matt, "And with 2600 DEF, 'Junk Gardna' can shrug off the attacks of nearly any of your other monsters!" He entered the End Phase, "I end my turn!"
The furious Michael Atlas finally lost it with Matt… but it wasn't because the turn got 'Red Dragon Archfiend' crippled. It was because this wasn't the kind of duel he (Michael) had been hoping for, because Matt was supposed to show everyone the power of being the Ultimate Coordinator, so that he (Michael) could ultimately surpass it with his own power. Instead, Matt was making a pathetic dueling display throughout as though he was being desperate.
"MATT, YOU BASTARD!" screamed Michael, causing Matt to ease up, "This whole duel… Your dueling is absolutely pathetic! Rushing to win a duel will never defeat me, the King, and you know it!"
Matt gasped in shock, while, in the stands, the audience had mostly been hushed from hearing the hateful words from Michael Atlas.
"Atlas-sama… How could he call Fudo-san pathetic?" protested David.
"It's wrong, but Mike does have a point," interjected Zack bluntly, "Matt has made too many mistakes, and it's going to cost him—Mike will make sure of it."
"Matty…" worried Ashima.
Back on the track, both Fudo Go and Wheel of Fortune crossed the finish line again and began another lap. As for Michael, he would use this turn to show Matt what happens when you hold back against the one, true King.
"It's my turn!" snarled Michael, drawing a card, "That was your last turn, Matt! Now you will face the King's true power without any mercy!"
Both players gained another Speed Counter:
-Matt: 0 → 1
-Michael: 4 → 5
Turn Six: Michael Atlas (LP: 2775)
Deck: 52
Current Hand (1): "Red Giant"
Speed Counters: 5
His drawn card was a Monster Card called 'Red Giant', but a card he would not need—all he needed were his two Set cards.
"I activate a Trap, 'Assault Mode Activate'!" began Michael, as his first Set card flipped face-up on the field in-front of Wheel of Fortune and revealed itself, "I must Tribute 1 Synchro Monster; I must Special Summon 1 "/Assault Mode" monster, whose name includes the Tributed monster's name, from my Deck in Attack Position!" While he (Michael) explained the rest of the effect, Matt flinched from horror and listened, "During the turn it is Special Summoned, that monster cannot be destroyed by battle, and is unaffected by my opponent's card effects!"
'Red Dragon Archfiend' roared as its whole body caught on fire and armor pieces started forming while a Summon Chant was heard.
"Covered in blazing armor, the ruler descends here!" chanted Michael, as the flames began to die down, "Come forth, 'Red Dragon Archfiend/Assault Mode'!"
With the fire gone, 'Red Dragon Archfiend' had become 'Red Dragon Archfiend/Assault Mode' (Level: 10/ATK: 3500/DEF: 2500). The audience was both amazed and scared by what Michael just brought out.
"Matt's so screwed…" whispered Lisa.
And Matt was… Back on the field, Matt watched in horror as 'Red Dragon Archfiend/Assault Mode' flew into the sky until it was right above 'Junk Gardna'.
"'Red Daemon's', lay destruction upon 'Junk Gardna'!" The voice of Michael commanded, as the above scenario played out. It was then he announced his monster's attack name, just as 'Red Dragon Archfiend/Assault Mode' lit its right claw on fire and threw a punch, "Extreme Crimson Force!"
The attack struck 'Junk Gardna', who tried his hardest to withstand the power behind Extreme Crimson Force, but was overwhelmed and exploded from destruction. Even after destroying the weaker monster, Michael was not satisfied; not until he won the duel. With his final Set card, that desire would be granted.
"I activate a Trap!" bellowed Michael, as his final Set card reappeared on the field in-front of Wheel of Fortune, flipped face-up, and revealed itself to be… "'Assault Slash'!"
"What did you say?" panicked Matt, "'Assault Slash'!"
"If I control an '/Assault Mode' monster: I must destroy all face-up monsters on the field!" explained Michael, before giving the command to his glowing 'Red Dragon Archfiend/Assault Mode', "Do it, 'Red Daemon's'! Destroy yourself!"
With a final roar, 'Red Dragon Archfiend/Assault Mode' flew high into the sky and exploded into a massive ball of fire, causing everyone in the stands to cover their eyes from the sight. When the attack ended, all that was left was a thick fog of smoke. Michael destroyed his own monster on purpose, since it would reward him greatly with another monster.
"I activate 'Red Dragon Archfiend/Assault Mode's' second effect!" The lime green-haired young man called out, while the smoke cleared away and showed a pair of glowing red eyes from within, "When this card on the field is destroyed: I can target 1 'Red Dragon Archfiend' in my GY; I must Special Summon that target!"
The smoke in the sky fully cleared away, showing 'Red Dragon Archfiend' back on the field as it let out a demonic roar (Level: 8/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2000).
"My very soul has returned, Matt—in Attack Position!" Michael pointed out viciously, as the horrified Matt remained absolutely silent, "As for you, you lost 'Junk Gardna'! Meaning one direct attack will defeat you!" Driving further up ahead, he made Wheel of Fortune slide against the road ahead of him while holding his right hand out in the direction of the opponent, "I attack directly with 'Red Dragon Archfiend'!" As he announced his monster's attack, 'Red Dragon Archfiend' leaned its head back and charged fire in its mouth, "Blazing Crimson Hell Flare!"
The devastating fire blast-like attack was fired off on command.
"Bow down before the King!" demanded Michael, having won the duel.
Blazing Crimson Hell Flare connected with Fudo Go, causing an explosion that threw the screaming Matt off the Duel Runner and into the air as his remaining LP fell all the way to 0 (LP: 1400 → 0).
DUEL RESULTS: Michael Atlas wins!
Poor Matt landed on the ground, bounced and tumbled about a few times (also removing his helmet in the process), and laid on his front, luckily unhurt. The whole audience watched the scene in sorrow, since, with the exception of a few like James R., Ashima, Carlie, and Zack, this was the first time they saw Matt actually lose a duel.
"Fudo-san…lost," murmured David sadly.
Carlie placed a hand on David's shoulder in an attempt to console him, while Lisa, who heard that Matt lost to Discord and Thomas once upon a time, was now wishing she never saw the duel in the first place. Back on the track, Matt managed to get to his hands and knees before punching the ground in anger as a shadow started looming over him. Looking up, he (Matt) found a helmetless Michael glaring down at him (Matt).
"This whole duel's outcome was long decided after you completed your first turn, Matt," said Michael coldly.
Matt weakly glared at his best friend/rival before looking at the ground in shame.
"I guess…you've won, Mike," he uttered.
"I 'didn't' win the Turbo Duel!" shouted Michael, causing Matt to visibly flinch and look back up, "Not against the 'real' Matt Fudo, who time and time again has proven to be the strongest rival I ever had!" He pointed forward an accusing finger from his right hand, "The person I was facing was a 'weak', 'pathetic' Matt Fudo! One who wasn't even making a solid effort to try in the duel!"
"Mike…" grimaced Matt.
"I've misjudged you, Matt!" spat Michael furiously, turning around, no longer wanting to even look at Matt, "I've got nothing more to say to a loser like you!"
He turned, got back on Wheel of Fortune, put his helmet back on, revved the Duel Runner, and roared out of the arena. Everyone still watching from the benches knew that Michael's friendship with Matt had become noticeably strained—if not ended outright.
(elsewhere…)
A little later after the duel, Carlie and Sherry were hanging out in the park and had finished talking about the recent battle between Matt and Rutger.
"And that's basically it," admitted Carlie, "Rutger, along with Rex and Dr. Fudo, were involved in turning Matt into the Ultimate Coordinator."
"That bastard…" growled Sherry, growing to hate Rutger more every second, "It makes me glad to hear he's been finally dealt with—I only wish I could have witnessed it for Elsworth's sake."
"I know," nodded Carlie, "Because Rutger killed your guardian."
"Yes," confirmed Sherry, becoming grieved once more. She (Sherry) dried her eyes and faced Carlie again, "Even so, I'm sorry Matt had to learn that his own Father was involved in performing such an experiment when his Mother was pregnant with him."
"The Ultimate Coordinator project ended up killing numerous women and unborn children," Carlie recalled, "Matt's completely lost his will to fight from learning of it, to the point Mike easily defeated him in a duel earlier today," Wanting to change the subject, she knew just the thing to ask, "Sherry, how are you holding up from Elsworth's death?"
"Struggling as much as anyone else would," answered Sherry, as a faded image of her and Shinji embracing on the balcony of their hotel room at night was superimposed over her, "Shinji has been looking after me as best as he can in…" As she (Sherry) poured her heart out, all Carlie could do was simply listen to her (Carlie) best friend, "But for once, I'm actually embarrassed to admit it since I'm still in mourning."
"Sherry…" whispered Carlie, "I can't really say I have the right to judge you for it—but if sex for solace actually helps you somewhat alleviate the pain," She smiled slightly, "then that's good enough for me," Her smile was then lost as she looked away, "But…"
A curious Sherry looked over, wondering what else Carlie had to say.
"Listen, we, the Signers, want you to be a part of the fight against Azrael and the remaining Dark Signer," offered Carlie, as Sherry simply stared, "I know you can no longer get revenge against Rutger since he's already dead, but this could at least still serve as a bookend to helping us stop the Dark Signers," She held her right hand out, "What do you say? Will you and Shinji both stay and fight alongside us?"
Instead of accepting the handshake or even saying a word, Sherry did something else out of the blue; she smiled and wrapped her (Sherry) arms around Carlie and hugged her (Carlie). Initially surprised, Carlie smiled back and returned the hug. Carlie and Sherry remained in their spot for at least a minute before they started to feel the hot summer air begin getting cooler like fall. In fact, it got so cold that the two young women broke apart and started shivering.
"W-What's going on?" coughed Carlie.
"I don't know," Sherry replied, who could practically see her breath, "It's supposed to be a very hot summer day!"
All of a sudden, from behind a nearby tree, the hooded Misty made herself known to Carlie Izayoi and Sherry LeBlanc.
"I'm afraid I can't let you leave," warned Misty icily.
Carlie and Sherry gasped when they saw Misty—not knowing her identity. Luckily for them, the cold air warmed back up into warm summer air.
"A Dark Signer!" realized Carlie.
"I'm honored to finally meet with you, Ms. Carlie Izayoi," said Misty, being unbelievably polite to someone considered her enemy, "However, at the same time, you should actually be very familiar with me."
Carlie and Sherry said nothing in response, and Misty smiled underneath her hood, pleased that she (Misty) planted seeds of confusion into the Signer (Carlie) and her best friend (Sherry).
"It doesn't matter either way," continued Misty, "You cannot escape from my revenge."
"Revenge?" repeated Sherry, growing upset, "What the hell did Carlie do to make you want revenge on her?"
"It's okay. I never expected neither of you to know the truth," said Misty calmly, closing her eyes briefly, "Nothing he hears will make him come back."
"'Him'?" quizzed Carlie, "What are you talking about?"
Misty responded by making the birthmark of the Lizard glow on her right arm. Sherry, knowing a duel was on the horizon, grabbed Carlie by the right forearm.
"Carlie, I'll fight alongside you!" suggested Sherry, causing Carlie to look over, "Together, we can defeat this Dark Signer!"
But Misty, not having any of it, waved her left arm and sent out a shockwave that didn't faze Carlie but did hit and threw the screaming Sherry away by a small distance.
"Sherry!" cried Carlie, before facing Misty, "You-!"
"I am sorry, Ms. Sherry," apologized Misty, who seemed genuinely regretful she had to attack Sherry like that, "But the duel will be between me and Carlie—there will be no outside interference allowed."
Holding up her right hand, the black-haired young woman summoned the geoglyph to trap herself and Carlie inside. Managing to get back up after getting the wind knocked out of her, Sherry ran towards the geoglyph's firewall and pounded her fists on it.
"Carlie! Carlie!" wailed Sherry, "Bon sang! Let me in!"
Inside the geoglyph, Carlie looked at her surroundings when she (Carlie) heard soft laughter coming from Misty.
"This is our fated fight, Carlie," giggled Misty, "You have no other choice but to fight me. And when I'm finished with you, I will destroy your friends."
"Fine then," grunted Carlie, accepting with agitation, "I don't know what it is you have against me, but I shall face you, regardless. This is where I belong. If you say you want to get rid of it, I have to fight you."
With that said, both players activated their Duel Disks and drew five cards.
"Duel!" Carlie and Misty announced at the same time (LP: 4000) x2.
Outside the geoglyph, Sherry frowned over her friend facing the Dark Signer all alone—but, at the same time, was confident Carlie could win. Back in the geoglyph, Misty looked at her hand, and suddenly pointed at Carlie.
"I will let you have the first turn," smiled Misty.
"This Dark Signer is letting me go first?" thought Carlie, surprised by the polite offer, "Just who is she?" She spoke aloud, "Very well, I accept your offer!" A card was drawn, "It's my turn!"
Turn One: Carlie Izayoi (LP: 4000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Witch's Strike", "Rose Girl", "White Rose Dragon", "Fragrance Storm", "Rose Lover", and "Copy Plant"
Her hand contained 'Witch's Strike', 'Rose Girl', 'White Rose Dragon', 'Fragrance Storm', 'Rose Lover', and the drawn 'Copy Plant'. Nodding silently, Carlie made her move.
"I Summon 'Rose Lover'!" she began, holding up a card ('Rose Lover') and placing it onto her Duel Disk.
Appearing onto the field in its place was the young woman with long blonde hair and wearing a lovely rose red dress (Level: 1/ATK: 800/DEF: 800).
"Then, from my hand, I'll activate 'Fragrance Storm'," continued Carlie, holding up another card ('Fragrance Storm'), "I must target 1 Plant monster on the field; I must…" On cue, 'Rose Lover' shattered into shards of glass, "…destroy that target, and if I do," She drew a card and looked at it, "draw 1 card, then if that card is a Plant monster, I can reveal it and draw 1 more card."
The drawn card was a Monster Card called 'Fairy Archer Ingunar', which was a Plant monster.
"I've drawn a Plant monster," informed Carlie, drawing a second card, "I will draw another card!" She saw her drawn card was the 'Black Rose Sowing' Trap Card, adding it into her hand before taking another card ('Rose Girl') from there in an attempt to use its first effect, "If a face-up Plant monster(s) I control is sent to the GY (except during the Damage Step): I can Special Summon this card from my hand!" She placed the card onto her Duel Disk, "I Special Summon 'Rose Girl'!"
Appearing onto the field was the small female girl dressed in an outfit resembling a rose, and carrying a rose-like staff in her hands (Level: 3/ATK: 800/DEF: 600).
"From there, I'll activate 'White Rose Dragon's' second effect!" As Carlie spoke, she reached for and took a card ('White Rose Dragon') from her hand, "If I control a Dragon Tuner or Plant Tuner: I can…" She readied the card briefly, "…Special Summon this card from my hand."
"'White Rose Dragon'," muttered Misty.
"Precisely," confirmed Carlie, placing the card ('White Rose Dragon') onto a Monster Zone on her Duel Disk, "Come, 'White Rose Dragon'!"
Appearing onto the field was the small plant-like dragon with white rose features (Level: 4/ATK: 1200/DEF: 1000).
"I tune Level 4 'White Rose Dragon' into Level 3 'Rose Girl'!" declared Carlie.
'Rose Girl' turned into three Synchro Rings as 'White Rose Dragon' soared into it, turning into four orbs of light as a Summon Chant echoed throughout.
"Chilling flames engulf the entire world. Pitch-dark flower, set into bloom!" chanted Carlie, as the symbols 4 + 3 = 7 were shown briefly just before the four orbs of light within the trio of Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Appear now, 'Black Rose Dragon'!"
Emerging from the dying down pillar of light and onto the field, was none other than the dragon littered with rose-like features (Level: 7/ATK: 2400/DEF: 1800). The birthmarks of Carlie and Misty started glowing in-response to the appearance of a Signer Dragon during a battle between Signer and Dark Signer. Misty, meanwhile, was pleased to see 'Black Rose Dragon' of all monsters.
"Carlie Izayoi… The usage of 'Black Rose Dragon' is proof that you are a Signer," admitted Misty.
A flashback ensued.
FLASHBACK
Within the darkness of her mind, a depressed-looking Flashback Misty sat on the cold, hard ground with her knees tucked near her chest as she prepared to enter the afterlife—well, she would have done that had a new voice not chosen the time to speak up.
"Misty Tredwell…" A deep, menacing voice (male) echoed, "Is being dead like this the right thing for you?"
"Wh-Who's there?" peeped Flashback Misty, startled.
"I said, is being dead like this the right thing for you?" The voice (male) repeated.
Flashback Misty looked down, "Yes, it is," she replied melancholy, closing her eyes near the end of her explanation, "I've been prepared to die ever since I learned of my beloved younger brother's death from a horrible accident. With him gone, what have I left to live for than an eternity in pain?"
"Hmhmhm… That is so bold of you to say," The voice (male) chuckled in response, "But you're wrong about one thing; it wasn't an 'accident' that took your kid brother from you—it was 'someone'!"
"S-Someone?" stammered Flashback Misty, looking up again.
"Yes, it was by someone you've once met," The menacing voice (male) recalled, "The person who killed your beloved brother…was none other than the 'Black Rose Witch', Carlie Izayoi!"
Flashback Misty rapidly stood up in shock; did she hear that right? It was Carlie Izayoi, the same one she met at the beach in New Haven? The one she saw in a vision of Flashback Azrael and his scientists torturing without remorse, then her battling Flashback Matt? The same Carlie Izayoi who had changed for the better after Yamato Fudo successfully defeated her in that San Francisco tournament years ago? 'That' Carlie Izayoi? No, it had to be a mistake… It had to be a lie… It just couldn't be true! The mixture of emotions poor Misty was feeling at this revelation was getting to her very quickly.
"No… You're lying," whispered Flashback Misty, before raising her voice into the darkness, "It's a lie! A lie! Carlie would never… She would never-!"
"Search your feelings…" The voice (male) said mockingly, "You know it to be true…!"
Flashback Misty, trying her absolute hardest to deny it all, could only clutch the sides of her head and scream from hearing what she believed to be the truth—she screamed in shock, she screamed in sadness, but, most of all, she screamed in anger. The deep voice laughed softly at the rage Misty was now showing from the confession.
"Please, tell me!" demanded Flashback Misty in desperation, "What can I do to avenge Toby?!"
"Pledge your loyalty to the Dark Signers and obtain the unmatched power of the 'Earthbound Immortals'," The voice (male) instructed seriously, "Only then will you become powerful enough to avenge your brother's murder—by destroying Carlie Izayoi!"
"Yes… Yes! I'll do it!" The voice of Flashback Misty accepted, as she allowed the darkness to completely consume her, "I'll sell my soul to the 'Earthbound Immortals'. When I do, I will do anything to pay Carlie back for taking Toby from me!"
END FLASHBACK
The flashback ended, and Misty continued to stare blankly at 'Black Rose Dragon'. Outside the geoglyph, Sherry took out her cellphone and made a quick call to Shinji.
"Shinji, it's Sherry," began Sherry, once the call was picked up, "I don't have time to explain all the major details, but Carlie and I ran into some trouble in the park… We've come across a Dark Signer hellbent on defeating Carlie. Find James and anyone else willing to come and hurry here!" After three seconds, she spoke again, "Okay, we'll be waiting."
And the blonde-haired young French woman hung up. Back in the geoglyph, Carlie's turn was ongoing.
"I activate the third effect of 'White Rose Dragon'!" she proclaimed, holding up a card ('Staysailor Romarin') and sending it to the GY, "If this card is sent to the GY as Synchro Material: I can send 1 Level 4 or higher Plant monster from my Deck to the GY… However, this is where I'll activate the second effect of 'Staysailor Romarin'!"
"Mm?" wondered Misty.
"If this card is sent to the GY by a card effect: I can send 1 Level 5 or lower Plant monster from my Deck or Extra Deck to the GY," revealed Carlie, "Yes, I know that it's weird to include a card effect that lets you send monsters from the Extra Deck to the GY, but, at times, it can be useful. But this time, I won't do that," A card ('Gigaplant') ejected from her Deck and started to get taken, "Instead, I'll send Level 6…" She held the card up before sending it to the GY, "…'Gigaplant' from my Deck to the GY."
"I know…" confessed Misty, "I know a lot of your strategies, because back when I was alive, I saw many of her duels on TV. I almost never missed a single one."
Carlie became unsettled once again, wondering just who this Dark Signer was. Shaking her head, she took two cards from her hand.
"I Set two cards face-down and finish my turn," concluded Carlie, "Now, Dark Signer, it's your turn."
"Certainly," accepted Misty, drawing a card, "It's my turn!"
Turn Two: Misty Tredwell (LP: 4000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Reptilianne Lamia", "Reptilianne Recoil", "Reptilianne Scylla", "Greed Grado", "Reptilianne Spawn", and "Reptilianne Invigoration"(!)
Her drawn card was a Spell Card called 'Reptilianne Invigoration'—which got placed in the hand while another card was taken from there.
"Field Spell, 'Reptilianne Recoil', activate!" began Misty, holding up a card ('Reptilianne Recoil').
As soon as the card was placed in the Field Spell Zone and closed up, a beam of light fired itself into the sky towards the geoglyph of the Lizard.
"What is this?!" demanded Sherry.
"'Reptilianne Recoil'…" worried Carlie. "'Reptilianne' is the name of the archetype Misty Tredwell used back when she was alive."
Misty simply smiled, amused that Carlie or Sherry still didn't understand the truth of the matter. Well, soon they would find it out, and, by then, it would be too late.
"My card has two effects, both with hard once per turn rulings," explained Misty, "I will show you them when the time comes," She held up a familiar card ('Reptilianne Scylla'), "I Summon 'Reptilianne Scylla'!"
Appearing onto the field was what appeared to be the top half of a reptile-like woman mounted on a snake-like beast with an additional set of mouths on its side (Level: 4/ATK: 1800/DEF: 1200). Carlie and Sherry recoiled when they saw that monster, having a flashback to when it was played.
FLASHBACK
During Flashback Misty's Turbo Duel with Flashback Clotho in New York City…
"I Summon 'Reptilianne Scylla' in Attack Position!" proclaimed Flashback Misty, holding up a card taken from her hand.
Appearing onto the field was what appeared to be the top half of a reptile-like woman mounted on a snake-like beast with an additional set of mouths on its side (Level: 4/ATK: 1800/DEF: 1200).
END FLASHBACK
The flashback ended, and Misty was making another move.
"Furthermore, I'll activate the first effect of 'Reptilianne Lamia'!" While speaking, Misty held up another familiar card ('Reptilianne Lamia'), waited a few seconds, then placed it onto her Duel Disk, "If this card is in my hand and all monsters I control are face-up Reptile monsters (min. 1): I can target 1 face-up monster my opponent controls; I must change its ATK to 0, and if I do, Special Summon this card, then take damage equal to that monster's original ATK!"
First, 'Black Rose Dragon' found itself turning to stone with its ATK falling all the way to nothing (ATK: 2400 → 0), and, next, appearing on the field was a rather beautiful-looking woman with the bottom half of a snake (Level: 2/ATK: 0/DEF: 0). Suddenly, there was a reaction from the petrified 'Black Rose Dragon', which came in the form of a Black Rose Flare from the Signer Dragon's head, hitting Misty as she tried her hardest to withstand it even as she glowed red and sustained massive damage (LP: 4000 → 1600). While that was going on, Carlie and Sherry continued to stare intently at the Dark Signer before them, trying to study her (Misty) physique as best they could given the Dark Signer regalia she was wearing.
"This is so strange," thought Sherry.
"There's only one woman we know of with a voluptuous figure on par with Sherry's, and who also uses 'Reptilianne' monsters," thought Carlie.
Meanwhile, Misty eased up once the attack ended, having been mostly unfazed by it.
"The loss of 2400 LP," mused Misty, bringing her right hand to her chest and keeping it there while remembering the past, "Such pain is nothing compared to the pain and sorrow inflicted by my younger brother's death."
Carlie and Sherry were surprised to the point they stopped observing their opponent's body. Misty, meanwhile, held up another card ('Reptilianne Invigoration') to play.
"I activate the Spell Card, 'Reptilianne Invigoration'!" declared Misty, "If I control a 'Reptilianne' monster: I must target 1 face-up monster my opponent controls whose current ATK is different than its original ATK; I must gain LP equal to the change in ATK," She slotted the card into her Duel Disk, causing the mentioned Spell Card to materialize face-up on the field, "The monster I target will be your 'Black Rose Dragon', Carlie," As she (Misty) rambled on, Carlie gasped and looked up at her (Carlie) petrified 'Black Rose Dragon', "It currently has an ATK different than its original ATK."
With that said, Misty started glowing all gold as she recovered all of her LP (LP: 1600 → 4000). Carlie, meanwhile, started to grow more and more frightened as to what would come next.
"Now that 'Scylla' and 'Lamia' have been assembled, I can guess what will come next," Carlie told herself, mentally.
"My physical pain can be healed, but the pain and scars of my heart can never recover or be the same as it once was," stated Misty coldly, blaming Carlie for what happened to her younger brother without actually making the accusation, "The only way to soothe that pain is by getting revenge on the monster that inflicted those wounds—only after murdering the one who killed my younger brother…" She pointed at her enemy, "I must defeat you, the 'Black Rose Witch' Carlie Izayoi!"
Carlie gasped in horror over being called her alter ego, while outside the geoglyph…
"How dare you!" snapped Sherry, disgusted that the Dark Signer would hypocritically call Carlie a monster, "Carlie isn't a murderer!" Inside the geoglyph, Misty listened while closing her (Misty) eyes and chuckling humorlessly, "We're sick of being left in the dark! Tell us who you are!"
"But you should already know who I am," Misty pointed out, opening her eyes, "Since I'm playing the 'Reptilianne' archetype, it means I have to be-"
"No!" The voice of Carlie cut in, stopping Misty's from speaking further and grabbing her (Misty) attention. She was hyperventilating hard over who she believed the Dark Signer was, "It just can't be possible! A-Are you really…Misty Tredwell?"
"Misty?" repeated Sherry, stunned, "Her?"
Misty, meanwhile, knew that the jig was up; her identity was revealed, and she couldn't deny it. With no other option, she reached for the hood of her cloak and lowered it, showing off the markings of the Dark Signer on her face and her black eyes with blue pupils. Carlie Izayoi and Sherry LeBlanc were shocked to the core when they found out the Dark Signer was none other than the deceased Misty Tredwell.
While "we" the readers and writers knew Misty is the Dark Signer because of the chapter where she was killed (by Azrael) and then revived, the other characters like Carlie and Sherry didn't know until they figured it out. And earlier on in the chapter, Matt has suffered a big duel loss (his first since facing Thomas in Season 4 of "The Sodor Chronicles") to Michael in the worst way possible, and now he and Michael might not be on good terms anymore. Will Carlie be able to defeat Misty, or, better yet, will she be able to find a way to save her instead? Stay tuned for more, and, as ever, stay safe in these very annoying times.