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: Burning Soul
Opening up inside his dorm, Michael, after returning from patching things up with Matt, was sitting on the couch reading a novel on the Inca when he came across something on one page—it was a page of a temple with hundreds of worshippers gathered. It helped remind him of years ago when he and his friends went to South America for a vacation, and he ended up getting more than he bargained for. The memory of that time was so strong, that Michael reached into his pocket and pulled out his 'Red Nova Dragon' Synchro Monster Card.
"'Scar-Red Nova', we've been through a lot over the last several years," he told the card, before closing his eyes for a moment, "We met in South America when I was just 16."
A long flashback ensued.
FLASHBACK
Taking place several months after Matt was crowned North America's best duelist, he, Michael, Discord, James R., and Carlie were traveling all the way to South America for a much needed vacation. Discord's private plane soon landed at an airport in a popular beach resort town in Peru. The small group stepped off the plane as they were greeted by various people speaking to them in Spanish.
(elsewhere…)
At the beach, a day later, the group, except surprisingly for Michael, were wearing their swimsuits and enjoying their day there. James R. and Carlie were happily building a sand castle, as Zack was in the process of playing volleyball with Matt. Discord was in the process of doing some paintings and getting ideas for new card archetypes when he returned to San Francisco. Michael, meanwhile, was the only one not having any fun because he (Michael) was remembering his loss to Matt at the start of the year.
"What did I do wrong in the duel?" thought Michael, "Matt says my loss was due to me giving into my pride in being King… But…" He clenched his right hand into a fist, "I must find a new way to fight if it will help me redeem myself."
"Hey, Mike!" The voice of James R. interrupted, causing Michael to look over. He and Carlie walked over to their friend, "Wanna help Carlie and I with building a big sand castle?"
Scowling over being asked to join in the fun and activities, Michael got up from the beach chair and stormed off without a word, leaving James R. and Carlie both confused as Zack and Matt walked up.
"Sheesh! What's bugging him?" pondered Zack, while Matt shrugged silently.
"I'm sure it's nothing serious," responded Discord, looking up from his work, "At least I hope it's nothing that bad."
Matt looked in the direction where Michael left, hoping that Discord was right about that.
(elsewhere…)
Entering the marketplace of the town, Michael started exploring the place in hopes of finding someone who could give him some advice. While walking around cautiously…
"Oye tu niño," A male voice whispered hoarsely in Spanish.
"Huh?" gasped Michael, turning to the right and finding a shady-looking man at an abandoned stand. He walked over, "Are you talking to me?"
"You look like you have a lot on your mind," The shady man remarked, "Why don't you tell me all about it? My old ear is all ready to listen."
Michael frowned, but agreed to speak as he walked to the stand and the man.
"I was once the North American Duel Monsters champion," began Michael, "But, this year, I lost my title to Matt Fudo."
The man grinned, "Is that all?"
"No," replied Michael, "In the process, I learned how horrible of a person I was during my time as champion," He (Michael) remembered when Zack got angry and threw a punch, and then Carlie spoke up, "My friends confronted me when I was about to leave to go on a journey, and, thanks to what they told me, I decided to stay and work hard to redeem myself," While he (Michael) continued speaking, the shady man listened with secret glee, "However, I can't seem to do that until I find a new way to duel."
"Tsk tsk tsk, what a shame," mocked the shady man, "You're right, you can't redeem yourself until you get stronger. But there might be someone who can help you."
Michael looked surprised, but agreed to listen.
"To the north of town, just two miles up the road, there's a shrine home to a spirit we all worship," The shady man explained, "There are rumors he can grant people wishes."
"A wish-granting spirit?" repeated Michael, but then lost his patience over the potential fairy tale, "Old man, enough of your foolishness! If you keep mocking me-"
"It's no lie, sonny," insisted the shady man, waving his hands. He then held out a map, "The location is on this map."
Michael roughly snatched the map, unrolled it, and started looking through it.
"If you visit this spirit, he'll grant you any wish you desire," said the shady man, as Michael looked unsure of what to do, "Including becoming stronger as a duelist. Now, you may keep the map, free of charge."
(elsewhere…)
As night dawned in town, soon after Michael returned to his friends, the small group stopped at a restaurant for dinner.
(inside…)
Inside, James R. was cheerfully enjoying his roast potatoes, chicken, and steak without a care in the world, as Zack and Carlie watched with surprise and disgust at their friend's eating habits. Discord was enjoying his steak, gorgonzola cheese, and delisious fruit juice when he (Discord) saw that Michael wasn't eating.
"What's the matter?" asked Discord, "Aren't you hungry?"
"Hm?" peeped Michael, looking up, "Oh, sorry, I just I'm just thinking about what I found in the market."
"What'd you find?" pressed Matt.
Michael frowned, "I bought a map from some old geezer," he answered, "He told me that the spirit that watches over the town can grant any wish a person desires."
"A wish-granting spirit?" repeated Matt.
"Pfft! That guy must have been trying to swindle you," scoffed Zack, "You really shouldn't believe that kind of crap from a conman."
"Maybe, but still…" mused Michael, "I feel that I have to find out for myself."
"Hold up!" cut in Carlie, "You're not thinking of checking that temple out, are you? What if it isn't real?"
"It's something I must do," figured Michael, "If I'm to find a new way to duel and redeem myself, I have to at least try," He looked all across the table at his friends, "Everyone, will you come with me?"
"You're not gonna let this go until you get the ultimate disappointment, am I right?" sighed Zack, fixing the glasses on his face, "I guess it can't be helped… We'll go."
"You never know, I might actually get more ideas for new archetypes," smiled Discord, "We'll leave tomorrow morning."
Matt merely grinned at his new friend/forever rival and gave a thumbs up, making Michael feel glad to have his friends with him.
(elsewhere…)
Next morning, the group was up earlier as Discord rented a car and they drove two miles north of the resort town. As Matt drove, Zack was looking over the map to the location of the rumored temple.
"Keep going on this path, Matt," advised Zack.
Matt obeyed and kept driving down the current road. Eventually, after an hour or so of searching, they arrived at a large, seemingly abandoned Incan temple.
"Is this the place?" wondered James R..
"According to the map, this is the temple," Zack, looking at the map, stated, before lowering the map, "Honestly, I still think that man swindled you, Mike. Let's just head back to town and enjoy our vacation."
"You know what? This place does make me feel unsettled," agreed Discord, "Maybe we should forget the whole thing?"
But Michael, more determined than ever to become stronger, didn't listen to them as he walked past his friends and approached the temple staircase.
"Hey!" objected James R..
"Wait up!" called Matt.
The group climbed up the staircase and found the entrance already open as though visitors were expected. They walked inside one-by-one.
(inside…)
As Michael, Discord, and everyone else walked inside, all they found in the ruins was a large chamber with unlit torches.
"This is it?" frowned Matt.
"I knew it," groaned Zack, "That man was a swindler."
"Oh well, we tried," remarked James R. innocently, turning around, "Let's leave now."
But Michael still didn't give up; he walked down the staircase until he reached the ground level, while everyone else stayed near the top of the stairs. Once he reached the bottom, the torches suddenly lit up on their own and revealed a large statue at the end of the hallway.
"What the-?" stammered Zack.
"Welcome, Michael Atlas!" A high-pitched voice (male) greeted, "You sure took your sweet time getting here!"
"What was that?" worried Discord.
"Was someone actually expecting us?" came from Carlie.
"Show yourself!" demanded Michael.
On cue, two balls of flame appeared, giggling maliciously as they swooped around Michael, then Discord and the other members of Team 4D's, before approaching the statue and combining into the body of a flame spirit.
"Who are you?" asked Michael cautiously.
"Ah ha ha ha ha! I've been waiting for you, Michael Atlas," The flame spirit cackled, "I humbly welcome you all to my home!" He bowed, "I am known as the Familiar of Red Nova."
"Familiar of Red Nova?" uttered Michael.
"Is that supposed to be the name of a Duel Monsters card?" questioned James R. naively.
"My master is deep inside this temple," screeched Familiar of Red Nova, holding both arms out before pointing forth, "He's been waiting a long time for you to come here."
Michael frowned, "Me?"
"The rumors you heard from that man in town was speaking nothing but the truth the entire time," revealed Familiar of Red Nova, "I am a spirit capable of granting a person any wish they desire—you have been looking for me, yes?"
"Good!" exclaimed Michael, pleased that the rumor was true, "I wish to learn a new way to duel in order to redeem myself!"
Familiar of Red Nova chuckled, "Oh, but there's no rush to granting a wish like that!"
"What?!" yelled Michael, annoyed.
"For a wish like that to be granted, we have to conduct a ritual—with it being a duel," said Familiar of Red Nova, "If you, Michael Atlas, win, you will be granted the power to duel in a new way."
On the staircase…
"That sounds like a good reward," figured Carlie.
"No," denied Matt, "I got the feeling something bad will happen to Mike should the duel be lost."
Back below…
"But if I were to win," Familiar of Red Nova began, before pointing at Michael, "then your body will become the property of the Crimson Devil, also known as Scar-Red Nova!"
The group gasped.
"The Crimson Devil?" thought Matt.
"Who the hell is that supposed to be?" thought Zack.
While that was going on, Discord was busy checking out the carvings on the walls and finding them to be very strange.
"These weren't built by nature," realized Discord.
"Eh?" Carlie and James R. gawked, looking over.
"Someone built this place," The voice of Discord continued, looking thoughtful, "That man Mike said to have met in town… We must have been led here by him."
"A trap?! It couldn't be!" panicked James R..
Back below the staircase…
"So, Michael Atlas, will you accept the duel?" dared Familiar of Red Nova, "Or will you decline?"
Michael gritted his teeth, "I just can't let myself…" he recalled, before looking up at the statue behind Familiar of Red Nova as the spirit laughed, "I want to grow stronger and redeem myself!"
"Well?" grinned Familiar of Red Nova, "I'm waiting!"
"It's so obvious!" boomed Michael, "I accept your challenge! Start the ritual!"
"I knew it! I knew it! I knew it!" Familiar of Red Nova praised, dancing about happily, "Let's make your wish come true!" He snapped his fingers, "It's showtime! The contractual ritual will now begin," Michael listened to the rest of his (Familiar of Red Nova) rambling, "Since long ago, the ritual is always a duel."
Michael took a step forward and activated his Duel Disk, which automatically shuffled his Deck.
"Wait, Mike!" interrupted Matt, getting Michael's attention, "Forget about the duel! This Familiar of Red Nova is nothing but bad news! We should get out of here while we still can!"
"Don't interfere!" howled Familiar of Red Nova.
The spirit started dancing about, causing the whole area to shake itself apart before the floor cracked apart and left Michael on a barely sturdy-looking platform. Still laughing in a deranged way, Familiar of Red Nova aimed his left hand and fired a powerful blast of wind at the lower staircase, destroying it. Then he raised his right hand and fired a wind blast at the exit at the top of the staircase, completely trapping everyone inside.
"Everyone!" bellowed Michael, before facing Familiar of Red Nova in anger, "You bastard!"
"It's too late to leave," said Familiar of Red Nova, "The contractual ritual has already begun."
"This agreement is void!" Michael refused hotly.
"That's not allowed!" rebutted Familiar of Red Nova aggressively, "If you win, you'll learn a new duel method and redeem yourself," He pointed at his opponent, "But if you lose, then you will allow the Crimson Devil to take over your body."
"Damn it! I won't allow any demon to possess my body!" argued Michael, before swinging his right arm about, "Do you hear me?!"
"But, Mike, my master has chosen you," smiled Familiar of Red Nova, speaking in a sneering tone, "Even if you fall into Hell, your yearning for power still burns red. You should feel honored that the Crimson Devil will take over."
"Just try letting your master take over," challenged Michael, before addressing his friends, "Just wait, everyone. I'll finish him quickly!"
With that said, he drew five cards as the duel finally commenced.
"Duel!" Michael and Familiar of Red Nova announced at the same time (LP: 4000) x2.
Familiar of Red Nova raised his arms and summoned five large stone tablets that looked remarkably like Duel Monsters cards.
"Let's begin the ritual," began Familiar of Red Nova, "I'll go first!"
Turn One: Familiar of Red Nova (LP: 4000)
Deck: 35
Current Hand (5): "Bewitching Butterfly", "Abyss Kid", "Spirit Wave Barrier", "Guidance to the Abyss", and "Bewitching Butterfly"
One of the stone tablets ('Abyss Kid') turned over and revealed itself.
"I Summon 'Abyss Kid' in Defense Position!" The voice of Familiar of Red Nova proclaimed.
Appearing on the field was a ghostly Fiend monster wielding a large knife and fork (Level: 1/ATK: 0/DEF: 0).
"I Set one card face-down and end my turn," finished Familiar of Red Nova, as another of his stone tablets placed itself on the field, "Now, Mike, it's your turn."
On top of the destroyed staircase…
"The ritual has begun," commented Matt gravely.
"Unbelievable," agreed Discord.
Back on the field…
"What can you hope to do with a monster that can't defend itself?" scolded Michael, unimpressed. He then drew a card, "It's my turn!"
Turn Two: Michael Atlas (LP: 4000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Dark Resonator", "Attack Gainer", "Red Screen", "Trap Pause", "Synch Blast Wave", and "Big Piece Golem"
Upon seeing his drawn 'Big Piece Golem' Monster Card…
"If my opponent controls a monster and I control no monsters: I can Normal Summon this card from my hand without Tributing," Michael went on, placing his card onto his Duel Disk, "Come, 'Big Piece Golem'!"
Appearing on the field was the big, gray version of the 'Golem' monsters (Level: 5/ATK: 2100/DEF: 0). The Battle Phase began immediately afterward.
"'Big Piece Golem', attack 'Abyss Kid'!" ordered Michael, as 'Big Piece Golem' went into battle, "Power Pressure!"
With a punch, 'Big Piece Golem' destroyed 'Abyss Kid', only to leave behind yellow energy which went and struck Michael, weakening him a little bit (LP: 4000 → 3200).
"'Abyss Kid's' first effect!" explained Familiar of Red Nova, "When this card is destroyed and sent to the GY: I must inflict 800 damage to my opponent."
"Ugh… I…Set one card face-down…" recovered Michael, taking a card from his hand and slotting it into his Duel Disk, "…and end my turn!"
A face-down card appeared over the abyss.
"He just might know how I duel, so he might play a Deck full of ways to evade power," thought Michael, while Familiar of Red Nova smirked smugly, "But still…"
"It's my turn!" boasted Familiar of Red Nova, as another tablet came down.
Turn Three: Familiar of Red Nova (LP: 4000)
Deck: 34
Current Hand (4): "Bewitching Butterfly", "Spirit Wave Barrier", "Bewitching Butterfly", and "Abyss Boat Watchman"
Without wasting half a second…
"I Summon 'Abyss Boat Watchman'!" cried Familiar of Red Nova.
The 'drawn' stone tablet turned itself over, and appearing on the field was a ghostly Fiend monster armed with an oar and riding a boat of sorts (Level: 1/ATK: 0/DEF: 0).
"This is where 'Abyss Kid's' second effect activates," Familiar of Red Nova pointed out, wagging the index finger of his right hand, "If I controlled this card when it was destroyed and sent to the GY, then while this card is in the GY: I must destroy all monsters I control," His 'Abyss Boat Watchman' shattered into shards of glass and became yellow energy, "This activates 'Abyss Boat Watchman's' first effect! When this card is destroyed and sent to the GY: I must inflict 800 damage to my opponent!"
The yellow energy surged forward and struck Michael, damaging him further (LP: 3200 → 2400). Familiar of Red Nova chuckled humorlessly.
"Next, I'll activate the Continuous Spell, 'Spirit Wave Barrier'!" declared Familiar of Red Nova, as his next stone tablet turned over and revealed itself, "When an opponent's monster declares a direct attack: I must negate the attack, then destroy that monster. I must destroy this card during my 3rd End Phase after activation."
On the destroyed staircase…
"'Abyss Kid', 'Abyss Boat Watchman', 'Spirit Wave Barrier'," murmured Discord, "Those are all cards I never created. How in the world did this creature make them?"
"Doesn't matter," replied Matt, "What matters now is even though that guy's field is empty, Mike can't attack."
Back below…
"I end my turn," snickered Familiar of Red Nova.
"His strategy is to destroy his own monsters in order to inflict effect damage, while that Continuous Spell is designed to stop all direct attacks," thought Michael, "It's the perfect strategy to stop someone who uses nothing but power—but I will find a way to break through it even if power doesn't work!" He drew a card, "It's my turn! Hear this! I will keep going and going with nothing but power until I have a breakthrough!"
That statement only caused Familiar of Red Nova to cackle with amusement.
Turn Four: Michael Atlas (LP: 2400)
Deck: 53
Current Hand (5): "Dark Resonator", "Attack Gainer", "Trap Pause", "Synch Blast Wave", and "Power Breaker"
At last, Michael saw that his drawn card was a Monster Card called 'Power Breaker'.
"My prayers have already been answered!" bragged Michael, readying his card before placing it onto his Duel Disk, "I Summon 'Power Breaker' in Attack Position!"
Appearing on the field was a muscled, shirtless Fiend monster (Level: 4/ATK: 1900/DEF: 0).
"If I can just destroy that card…" Michael told himself, before giving an order, "I use 'Power Breaker' to attack directly!"
"But why would he attack despite that Spell Card?" protested Carlie.
"'Power Breaker's' first effect," answered Zack, "If this card in your possession is destroyed by your opponent's attack or card effect and sent to your GY: Target 1 face-up Spell/Trap your opponent controls; destroy that target."
Everyone else finally understood. Back below, 'Power Breaker' was moving in for the kill.
"Power Slash!" The voice of Michael yelled out.
'Power Breaker' struck Familiar of Red Nova's face-up 'Spirit Wave Barrier' Spell Card and ended up destroyed.
"Oh dear," joked Familiar of Red Nova, "Why would you make such a boneheaded move if you already knew that, thanks to 'Spirit Wave Barrier', direct attacks will backfire?"
"Getting my monster destroyed was a requirement for me to destroy 'Spirit Wave Barrier'," insisted Michael, "When 'Power Breaker' is destroyed, one face-up Spell or Trap on your field will be destroyed!" He pointed at the face-up 'Spirit Wave Barrier' Spell Card on the enemy's field, "Your ultimate defense against attacks is no more!"
The 'Spirit Wave Barrier' Spell Card cracked apart before shattering into shards of glass, but Familiar of Red Nova didn't seem to mind losing his card.
"Now your field is completely empty!" raged Michael, unaware that Familiar of Red Nova might be hiding a different strategy, "'Big Piece Golem' attacks you directly!" As he announced the attack's name, 'Big Piece Golem' charged into battle with a headbutt, "Power Pressure!"
"I won't let you do that," rebutted Familiar of Red Nova, "Trap Card, open! 'Guidance to the Abyss'!" His Set stone tablet flipped face-up and revealed itself, "If there are exactly 2 'Abyss' monsters in my GY: I must Special Summon 1 'Abyss' monster from my Deck!" He pointed forth, "I Special Summon 'Abyss Guardian' in Defense Position!"
Appearing on the field was a ghostly specter monster wielding a hand axe for a weapon (Level: 1/ATK: 0/DEF: 0).
"But due to the second effect of 'Abyss Kid', who's still in the GY, my monster is destroyed," reminded Familiar of Red Nova, as 'Abyss Guardian' shattered into shards of glass, turned into yellow energy, and fired forth, "When 'Abyss Guardian' is destroyed and sent to the GY: I must inflict 800 damage to my opponent, then, if this card was destroyed during the Battle Phase, end that Battle Phase."
The energy struck Michael and dealt more effect damage to him (LP: 2400 → 1600), while 'Big Piece Golem' returned to his field after having failed to do any damage to the opposition.
"By repeatedly Summoning and destroying, Familiar of Red Nova's playing around with Mike's power—no, he's cornering Mike," corrected Matt.
"Mike…" uttered Carlie.
Back on the field, Michael was still reeling from getting hit by effect damage a third time.
"I end my turn," The lime green-haired young man grunted.
"Hmhmhm… It's my turn!" giggled Familiar of Red Nova, making another stone tablet drop.
Turn Five: Familiar of Red Nova (LP: 4000)
Deck: 33
Current Hand (3): "Bewitching Butterfly", "Bewitching Butterfly", and "Magic Law"
However…
"There's nothing left for me to do," shrugged Familiar of Red Nova, practically making fun of Michael by leaving his (Familiar of Red Nova) field open, "I end my turn."
"Damn you…" swore Michael.
On the stone staircase…
"He's practically daring Mike to attack," acknowledged Zack, "The question now, however, is will Mike accept it?"
"Mike might be reckless, but he isn't stupid," proclaimed James R..
"That we do know; he was champion for a long time before finally losing to Matt," added Carlie.
Back below…
"Why don't you give up?" taunted Familiar of Red Nova, "That way, you can become the new body for the Crimson Devil, therefore making you both immortal and unstoppable!"
"Heh! Keep dreaming!" retorted Michael, drawing a card, "I have no desire to let my body become an offering!"
Familiar of Red Nova smiled with amusement.
Turn Six: Michael Atlas (LP: 1600)
Deck: 52
Current Hand (5): "Dark Resonator", "Attack Gainer", "Trap Pause", "Synch Blast Wave", and "Nightmare Archfiends"
Adding the card into his hand, Michael took and placed another one onto his Duel Disk.
"I Summon the Tuner monster, 'Dark Resonator'!" announced Michael.
Appearing onto the field was the familiar 'Resonator' monster wearing black robes and wielding a tuning fork and a mallet of sorts (Level: 3/ATK: 1300/DEF: 300). On the staircase, there were a number of stunned reactions from the spectators.
"A Tuner monster!" stated Matt.
"What?! Mike knows outright power won't work and yet he's not stopping it?" fretted Zack.
Back below…
"I tune Level 5 'Big Piece Golem' into Level 3 'Dark Resonator'!" commanded Michael.
'Dark Resonator' banged both its tuning fork and mallet together, turning itself into three Synchro Rings which hovered over 'Big Piece Golem' before lowering and surrounding it, turning it into five orbs of light as a Summon Chant ensued.
"The ruler's heartbeats will now file through here! Take witness to its creation-shaking power!" chanted Michael, as the symbols 5 + 3 = 8 were shown briefly before the five orbs of light within the trio of Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! My very soul, 'Red Dragon Archfiend'!"
Appearing on the field in a massive explosion of fire, as the Synchro Summon sequence ended, was the demonic servant of the Crimson Dragon (Level: 8/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2000). 'Red Dragon Archfiend' faced off against Familiar of Red Nova, who was practically squealing with delight over seeing it.
"It's here! It's finally here!" rejoiced Familiar of Red Nova, "The ace monster that symbolizes you!"
"'Red Daemon's' will attack directly!" spat Michael.
On the platform…
"Mike, attacking like that won't work!" argued Matt.
"Does he really want to change? Or is he too stuck with the want of power?" came from Discord.
Back on the field, 'Red Dragon Archfiend's' right claw was lit on fire.
"Absolute Powerforce!" The voice of Michael roared.
Even as the attack neared him, Familiar of Red Nova was not scared of it and merely laughed with amusement.
"I like your spirit since it never gives up!" screeched Familiar of Red Nova, "But I use this moment to activate 'Abyss Boat Watchman's' second effect!" As he explained, 'Abyss Guardian' reappeared on the field (Level: 1/ATK: 0/DEF: 0)—just as 'Red Dragon Archfiend' came at it with Absolute Powerforce, "If I controlled this card when it was destroyed and sent to the GY, then while this card is in the GY, when an opponent's monster declares an attack: I can target 1 'Abyss' monster in my GY; I must Special Summon it!"
Michael was dismayed, knowing what would happen next.
"Next, the second effect of 'Abyss Kid'!" reminded Familiar of Red Nova, as the spirit of 'Abyss Kid' reappeared on the field behind 'Abyss Guardian', impaling and destroying it with the knife and turning it into yellow energy, "If I controlled this card when it was destroyed and sent to the GY, then while this card is in the GY: I must destroy all monsters I control!" He then revealed (again) 'Abyss Guardian's' only effect, "When this card is destroyed and sent to the GY: I must inflict 800 damage to my opponent, then, if this card was destroyed during the Battle Phase, end that Battle Phase"
The energy was fired, pelting Michael multiple times and leaving him with very low LP (LP: 1600 → 800).
"I end my turn!" concluded Michael.
"Familiar of Red Nova's seemingly unbreakable strategy of Special Summoning monsters from the GY and destroying them in order to use their effects to deal damage and end the Battle Phase," observed Zack, "What a powerful defensive combo!"
James R. nodded, "It's reduced Michael's LP all the way to 800," he agreed, "If Mike tries attacking again, that strategy will reduce his LP to 0, defeating him."
"Mike…" worried Carlie.
Back on the field, Michael glared at his opponent with a cold glare from his eyes.
"It's my turn!" yelled Familiar of Red Nova, as another stone tablet came down, "Draw!"
Turn Seven: Familiar of Red Nova (LP: 4000)
Deck: 32
Current Hand (4): "Bewitching Butterfly", "Bewitching Butterfly", "Magic Law", and "Bewitching Butterfly"
However…
"But I have to end my turn," cracked Familiar of Red Nova, entering the End Phase, "After all, there's isn't a thing I can do."
"It's my turn!" seethed Michael, drawing a card. He knew he was being made fun of, "Draw!"
Turn Eight: Michael Atlas (LP: 800)
Deck: 51
Current Hand (5): "Attack Gainer", "Trap Pause", "Synch Blast Wave", "Nightmare Archfiends", and "Extra Veiler"
Upon looking at his card, Michael knew just what to do—he would attack again.
"I use 'Red Daemon's' to attack you directly!" vowed Michael.
Sure enough, the spectators were not thrilled to hear that.
"Mike, don't!" begged Carlie, "That guy has a defensive combo!"
"Mike!" called Matt.
As expected, 'Red Dragon Archfiend' lit its right claw on fire again.
"Absolute Powerforce!" The voice of Michael ordered, as his monster threw a flaming punch.
"How interesting," grinned Familiar of Red Nova, "I'll stay around with you until the very end!" He pointed forward using one hand at a time, "When your monster attacks, due to the second effect of 'Abyss Boat Watchman' in my GY," Reappearing in the air was 'Abyss Guardian (Level: 1/ATK: 0/DEF: 0), "I Special Summon 'Abyss Guardian' once more!"
"Now it's my turn to Special Summon a monster," cut in Michael, taking a card ('Extra Veiler') from his hand and readying it—using the monster's first effect, "When my opponent Special Summons a monster(s), except during the Damage Step: I can Special Summon this card from my hand," He placed the card onto his Duel Disk, "and if I do, my opponent takes any effect damage I would have taken from their card effects this turn, instead."
Appearing on the field was a humanoid matador-like monster (Level: 2/ATK: 600/DEF: 200).
"'Extra Veiler'!" remembered Zack.
"Mike must have planned for that move," said Matt urgently.
"When an "Abyss' monster is Summoned while 'Abyss Kid' is in the GY, the Summoned monster will be destroyed," explained Michael, going over how Familiar of Red Nova's cards worked, "Then, when 'Abyss Guardian' is destroyed, its effect will inflict 800 damage to the opponent and end the Battle Phase," He smiled darkly, "Am I right?"
"GAH! Y-You're right-!" freaked out Familiar of Red Nova.
The spirit of 'Abyss Kid' reappeared on the field behind 'Abyss Guardian', impaling and destroying it with the knife and turning it into yellow energy—which fired towards Michael, but 'Extra Veiler' got in the way and absorbed the energy with his cape, then, while waving the glowing clothe, fired it back and striking Familiar of Red Nova reducing some of his LP (LP: 4000 → 3200).
"I Set one card face-down and end my turn!" finished Michael, slotting a card into his Duel Disk and causing another face-down card materialized above the abyss next to the first card. He then looked at 'Extra Veiler', "Next, I'll activate 'Red Daemon's' second effect! Once per turn, during my End Phase: I must destroy all other monsters I control that did not declare an attack this turn," The monster getting focused on shattered into shards of glass, "This card must be face-up on the field to activate and to resolve this effect."
On top of the staircase…
"Thank God Mike made it through that turn alive," sighed Discord.
"Mike has used strategy for the first time in the duel to avoid the attack," admired Carlie.
"He used it to inflict damage to the opponent," added James R., "Could this be the start of a whole new duel?"
Back on the field…
"Oh my, I know how it feels to hold on to an ideal," mocked Familiar of Red Nova, pretending to be impressed before smirking, pointing forth, and putting down his opponent, "After talking on and on about your ideals, that wasn't cool," Focus then went to the large statue behind him, "My master, the Crimson Devil, is also angry!"
The statue started glowing in response.
"Michael Atlas, even if you have changed your way of fighting, you still can't beat me, the Familiar of Red Nova, nor my master!" accused Familiar of Red Nova, while Michael kept his (Michael) bowed and eyes shadowed, "You should duel in your usual manner and let the Crimson Devil take you!"
Finally, Michael raised his head and dispelled the show over his eyes.
"SHUT UP!" shouted Michael. He pointed at the enemy's field, "Tell your master that things won't go as planned!"
"Hmhmhm… You'll regret that," hissed Familiar of Red Nova, chuckling slightly.
The statue lit up further and fired off a blast of hot wind at Michael Atlas, blowing him off the platform but he saved himself by grabbing the edge as his friends watched in horror and Familiar of Red Nova laughed madly.
"Mike, even if you fall from the platform before the duel ends," teased Familiar of Red Nova, "it will count as a loss and your body will become the new vessel for my master!" As he (Familiar of Red Nova) went on with the mocking, Michael was still hanging onto the edge, "Please be careful."
Michael's only response was climbing back onto the platform.
"Mike!" called Matt.
"I'll be fine, Matt!" reassured Michael, "I will save all of you! I'll find a way out even at the cost of my own life…" The rest of the group listened to his words, "Everything we worked for won't end in this place!"
"Mike!" protested Zack.
At last, Michael pulled himself back onto the platform and faced Familiar of Red Nova.
"I won't lose!" promised Michael, "As long as my soul burns brightly, I will do whatever it takes to keep fighting!" He pointed at the statue, "And keep you where you belong!"
Back on the stone staircase…
"You know, even when Mike was growing increasingly antagonistic as champion, his strong will and soul, plus his passionate words about how they would never once burn out, was one of his few redeeming traits," recalled Discord.
"That was something good about him then," nodded James R..
Back on the field below…
"Bring it, Crimson Devil!" challenged Michael.
"Don't be so over confident!" Familiar of Red Nova brushed off, "After all, you're no match for the Crimson Devil!" A stone tablet dropped down, "It's my turn!"
Turn Nine: Familiar of Red Nova (LP: 3200)
Deck: 31
Current Hand (5): "Bewitching Butterfly", "Bewitching Butterfly", "Magic Law", "Bewitching Butterfly", and "Battle Mania"
The 'drawn' stone tablet was placed face-down on the field.
"I Set one card face-down and end my turn," finished Familiar of Red Nova.
"It's my turn!" thundered Michael, drawing a card.
Turn Ten: Michael Atlas (LP: 800)
Deck: 50
Current Hand (4): "Attack Gainer", "Trap Pause", "Synch Blast Wave", and "Synchro Soldier"
That was what Familiar of Red Nova had been waiting for…
"Trap Card, open!" began Familiar of Red Nova, as his Set card flipped face-up and revealed itself, "'Battle Mania'!" Focus went towards the face-up 'Battle Mania' Trap Card, then towards 'Red Dragon Archfiend', "During my opponent's Standby Phase: All face-up monsters my opponent controls are changed to Attack Position, and cannot change their battle positions this turn, also, all monsters my opponent currently controls must attack this turn, if able."
Back on the staircase…
"He's forcing 'Red Daemon's' to attack so that 'Abyss' combo will activate again," acknowledged Matt.
Back below, Michael smirked a little bit over how naive both Familiar of Red Nova and even Matt were being about 'him', the King.
"From my hand, I'll Summon 'Synchro Soldier'!" exclaimed Michael, placing his drawn card ('Synchro Soldier') onto his Duel Disk.
Appearing on the field was a human male wearing army gear and carrying a large weapon (Level: 1/ATK: 0/DEF: 0).
"I activate 'Synchro Soldier's' monster effect!" began Michael, "I can banish 1 face-up Synchro Monster you control; I must inflict.…" Focus went towards 'Red Dragon Archfiend', then towards 'Synchro Soldier', "…600 damage to my opponent, but I cannot conduct my Battle Phase the turn I activate this effect!" He held up his 'Red Dragon Archfiend' Synchro Monster Card, "I banish 'Red Dragon Archfiend'!"
'Red Dragon Archfiend' roared and dissolved into specks of red dust, which were then sucked up by 'Synchro Soldier's' weapon. With it charged up, all that was needed was the command to fire it off.
"Feel the roar of 'Red Dragon Archfiend's' soul!" threatened Michael, "Go, 'Synchro Soldier'!"
The attack was fired as a massive blast of fire while the roar of 'Red Dragon Archfiend' was heard. Familiar of Red Nova got struck, causing him to scream as his LP took another hit (LP: 3200 → 2600).
"As I mentioned seconds ago, I can't attack the turn I use this effect," reminded Michael, "So 'Synchro Soldier' can't strike you. More to it, during my next Standby Phase, I must return that monster to the field!"
"How dare you!" fumed Familiar of Red Nova, nearly exploding with anger, "Unforgivable!"
Back on the staircase…
"Mike truly is changing battle tactics from power to more of a strategy to stop the opponent," breathed James R..
Back below…
"Yeah, this must be a new way for me to fight," thought Michael, "My new soul of fighting is getting close at hand!" He then held his left hand (with the Duel Disk) out, and, a few seconds later, his second Set card flipped face-up and revealed itself, "Trap Card, open! 'Nightmare Archfiends', activate!" As he explained the effect, his 'Synchro Soldier' faded away in a blue streak before pointing at the opponent's field, "I must Tribute 1 monster; I must Special Summon 3 'Nightmare Archfiend Tokens' to my opponent's field in Attack Position. Each time 1 is destroyed, its controller takes 800 damage!"
The face-up 'Nightmare Archfiends' Trap Card glowed white and released three arrows of light onto Familiar of Red Nova's field, becoming three 'Nightmare Archfiend Tokens' (Level: 6/ATK: 2000/DEF: 2000) x3.
"O-Oh no, I control three monsters, but that's bad for me!" wailed Familiar of Red Nova.
"That's right," confirmed Michael coldly, "The second effect of 'Abyss Kid' activates. If you controlled this card when it was destroyed and sent to the GY, then while this card is in the GY: Destroy all monsters you control."
To Familiar of Red Nova's horror, the spirit of 'Abyss Kid' reappeared on the field, raised its weapons, and summoned lightning to strike three 'Nightmare Archfiend Tokens', destroying them and causing him to scream as his LP dropped to really low levels (LP: 2600 → 200).
"Just like that, that creep's LP have gone from 3200 to 200 in an instant," whispered Carlie, before smiling big, "Mike outsmarted the 'Abyss' combo! By not relying on power, Mike's new strategy is paying off!"
"Mike!" encouraged Matt.
Back on the field, Michael had ended his turn and waited to see what Familiar of Red Nova would do next. Speaking of whom, Familiar of Red Nova was no longer playful or making any jokes—no, he (Familiar of Red Nova) was absolutely furious with Michael.
"I can't forgive anymore of your defiance of the Crimson Devil," snarled Familiar of Red Nova, "You will die for your disobedience!" He raised his arms up, "The anger will turn into flame and consume you!"
The statue above him continued to glow and soon released another wind blast, but Michael was able to hold on.
"It's my turn!" boomed Familiar of Red Nova, as a stone tablet came down, "Draw!"
Turn Eleven: Familiar of Red Nova (LP: 200)
Deck: 30
Current Hand (5): "Bewitching Butterfly", "Bewitching Butterfly", "Magic Law", "Bewitching Butterfly", and "Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl"
Upon seeing what the tablet was, he smiled evilly and made his move.
"Michael Atlas, I can no longer use my old 'Abyss' combo against you," remarked Familiar of Red Nova, "I banish 'Abyss Kid', 'Abyss Boat Watchman', and 'Abyss Guardian' from my GY!"
Appearing above him were the spirits of the three mentioned 'Abyss' monsters, before they were absorbed into a black hole behind them—a burst of fire soon followed.
"I Special Summon 'Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl' in Attack Position!" The voice of Familiar of Red Nova howled.
Appearing on the field was a red-scaled serpentine dragon-like Fiend monster with sharp teeth and a long tail (Level: 10/ATK: 3800/DEF: 3000).
"Feel the wrath of the Crimson Devil!" roared Familiar of Red Nova, before going completely mad, "FEEL HIS VENGEFUL WRATH!"
With that final scream of hatred, the statue finally broke apart and revealed the Crimson Devil, ready to possess Michael once the duel was won by its minion. On the staircase…
"That's Scar-Red Nova?!" began Zack.
"And that 'Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl' has 3800 ATK!" gawked James R., talking about 'Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl'.
"Mike also controls no monsters!" put in Carlie, "He'll lose if he gets attacked directly!"
Back on the field, Familiar of Red Nova laughed madly now that his master had arrived and he also controlled the strongest monster in his whole Deck.
"I hope you're ready to be possessed by the Crimson Devil, Michael Atlas," sneered Familiar of Red Nova, entering the Battle Phase, "'Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl', attack directly!" As he belted out the attack name, 'Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl' went over to chomp on the opponent, "Hundred Demon Serpent Bite!"
"I activate a Continuous Trap!" cut in Michael, before pointing to his already activated Set card, "'Red Screen'!" As he explained the first effect, 'Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl' found itself backing off from attacking, "My opponent's monsters cannot declare attacks!"
"In that case, I'll just activate 'Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl's' effect!" rebutted Familiar of Red Nova, just as 'Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl' loomed over the opponent's field before, after three seconds, letting loose a massive blast of fire, "Once per turn: I can target 1 face-up card my opponent controls; I must destroy that target, and if I do, inflict 600 damage to my opponent!"
The flame blast struck and destroyed the face-up 'Red Screen' Trap Card in an explosion, causing Michael to brace himself from the backlash as his LP dropped really low (LP: 800 → 200).
"Both players' LP are equal!" realized Zack.
Unfortunately, Familiar of Red Nova was not done piling on the pressure.
"From there, I'll activate the Continuous Spell, 'Magic Law', from my hand!" he went on, as another tablet turned over and revealed itself, "I can send 3 monsters with the same name from my hand to the GY, and if I do, my opponent cannot activate Spell Cards until my next End Phase!" Laughing wickedly, he made his remaining tablets ('Bewitched Butterfly') turn over to be shown to the opponent before destroying them, "Now, Mike, you can no longer use Spell Cards to help yourself out! On my next turn, you will feel the full wrath of 'Abyss Ruler Miclancoatl'!"
Michael remained defiant in his spot, even as Familiar of Red Nova continued to speak.
"There are no cards capable of defeating 'Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl'," insisted Familiar of Red Nova, "But you shouldn't feel ashamed about losing, because your real future will be coming real soon—when the Crimson Devil, Scar-Red Nova, takes over your body, the former Duel King, and rises to a greater height!"
The Crimson Devil roared in agreement, patiently waiting for its minion to end the duel in a hurry. The power of the roar punished Michael closer to the edge, but he managed to continue holding on. All of a sudden, the whole temple began to shake itself to pieces, causing Discord, Matt, Carlie, James R., and Zack all to begin fleeing.
"There's no point in escaping!" laughed Familiar of Red Nova, "Your deaths will serve as the climax of the ritual, and they will be truly agonizing!"
"Damn you! I won't let you hurt my friends!" vowed Michael angrily, "I'm not about to let them perish for some stupid wish-granting spirit like you!"
"What a thing to say!" shrieked Familiar of Red Nova gleefully, much to Michael's further anger, "You'd been pushing them away during your time as the former Duel Monsters champion of North America, so you can't go saying nonsense like that!"
"Even if my body and soul burns out, I will continue to protect my friends!" rebutted Michael.
"Ridiculous!" objected Familiar of Red Nova, as the Crimson Devil roared in agreement, "See? My master agrees with me. He says 'Michael Atlas, in your hand, there aren't any cards you can use to defeat me!', and he's always right! The duel is over, the observers will die, and your body will become the vessel for the Crimson Devil!"
"My soul won't be taken that easily!" refused Michael, as he crossed his right arm across his chest and began to glow in a red aura, "Don't you forget! My very soul will return shortly!"
Familiar of Red Nova blinked, "Your very soul will return shortly?" he pondered, "I don't get what that even means—wait, 'Red Dragon Archfiend' comes back during the Standby Phase."
Michael, meanwhile, was channeling all of his anger and power into his soul, causing his whole body to begin burning with fire as he gave one of the most passionate statements he ever wanted to give about one of his own monsters.
"'Red Daemon's' is the symbol of my very soul!" admitted Michael, as the roar of 'Red Dragon Archfiend' was heard during the speech, "No matter how desperate of a situation, I would never allow it to be destroyed! Even if my body were to be destroyed because of it!"
"'Red Dragon Archfiend', so what?!" screamed Familiar of Red Nova, "My master won't forgive you anymore!" He spread both arms out, "Prepare to die, Michael Atlas!"
"I can feel it, my fiery soul!" muttered Michael, with his voice growing louder, "It has evolved!"
It was then his fist was lit on fire instead of his whole body. The audience watched from the staircase, growing amazed by what was going on—although they also hoped their friend would be able to use it to help turn things around. At last, the time came for Michael to end the match.
"It's my turn!" announced Michael powerfully, drawing a card with a Destiny Draw.
But at that point, Familiar of Red Nova finally had enough and decided to just kill Michael and be done with it.
"I won't let you… I won't let you!" Familiar of Red Nova flailed about, holding his left hand out.
The Crimson Devil let out a roar as it unleashed another wind blast. Above Michael, a bit of the ceiling started coming down on him.
"Oh no!" panicked Discord.
"Look out, Mike!" called James R..
(outside…)
Outside the pyramid, people were starting to gather around for their annual prayer when they saw the whole structure exploding into a pillar of fire.
"¿Qué diablos?" One woman wondered in Spanish.
"¿Está enojado nuestro Dios?" One man mused in Spanish.
(inside…)
Back inside the structure, the birthmarks belonging to the members of Team 4D's began glowing, which they noticed. Suddenly, the Crimson Dragon appeared and stopped the debris from falling onto Michael. Everyone was seeing it for the first time since the battle between Matt and Michael at the start of the year.
"That's-!" stammered James R..
"Ngh… It's the dragon that showed up during Matt and Mike's duel," grimaced Zack, clutching the sides of his head.
As Michael and the Crimson Dragon both faced 'Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl', Familiar of Red Nova, and the Crimson Devil, the former's eyes started glowing red as the reflection of an Incan man from long ago was seen briefly.
Turn Twelve: Michael Atlas (LP: 200)
Deck: 49
Current Hand (4): "Attack Gainer", "Trap Pause", "Synch Blast Wave", and "Creation Resonator"
"Because of 'Synchro Soldier's' effect, 'Red Dragon Archfiend, who was banished earlier, will return to the field!" recalled Michael, swinging his right around about, "Resurrect, 'Red Dragon Archfiend'!"
Reappearing above the abyss in a stream of fire, was none other than 'Red Dragon Archfiend' (Level: 8/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2000).
"If I control a Level 8 or higher Synchro Monster, I can Special Summon this card (from my hand)!" continued Michael, holding out his drawn card ('Creation Resonator') before placing it onto his Duel Disk, "Appear now, 'Creation Resonator'!"
Appearing onto the field was the 'Resonator' monster with a fan on its back (Level: 3/ATK: 800/DEF: 600).
"From my hand," As Michael said that, he placed a card ('Attack Gainer') onto his Duel Disk, "I'll also Normal Summon 'Attack Gainer'!"
Appearing on the field was a small, human male monster wearing a power suit (Level: 1/ATK: 0/DEF: 0).
"With these two Tuner monsters, I double tune Level 8 'Red Dragon Archfiend'…" commanded Michael, finally having his answer. He was then flanked by 'Red Dragon Archfiend', 'Attack Gainer', and 'Creation Resonator', "…into Level 1 'Attack Gainer' and Level 3 'Creation Resonator'!"
On the staircase…
"What?! Two Tuner monsters?" cried Discord.
"Is there seriously such a Synchro Summon?" put in Matt.
On cue, both 'Attack Gainer' and 'Creation Resonator' turned themselves into flaming Synchro Rings (one for 'Attack Gainer', and two for 'Creation Resonator'), which 'Red Dragon Archfiend' flew into as the symbols 8 + 3 + 1 = 12 were shown briefly before the body of the Signer Dragon turned into eight orbs of light from within.
"A Level 12 Synchro Monster!" admired Carlie.
"I think…this might be the power Mike has been seeking all this time!" figured Zack, as, on the platform, Michael stood surrounded by a flaming aura, "The power known as Burning Soul!"
The glowing red-eyed Michael silently crossed his right arm (with the glowing birthmark) across his chest as the aura around him grew stronger and stronger.
"My savage soul!" thundered Michael, "I will seal the Crimson Devil with my newfound power!"
Raising his right hand in the air, a new, blank card appeared in the palm of his gloved hand and he clutched it hard. Familiar of Red Nova was growing increasingly scared of the scene.
"W-What?!" panicked Familiar of Red Nova, "What's going on?!" He then saw his master, the Crimson Devil, in terrible pain, "Could it be? C-Could it be?!"
"Crimson Devil, your power now belongs to me!" Michael stated remorselessly, "Accept me as your new master!"
'Red Dragon Archfiend', now trapped in a sphere of fire, started absorbing the remains of the Crimson Devil as a brand new Summon Chant followed.
"The King and The Devil, here and now, shall become as one," chanted Michael, while the above scenario played out and while Familiar of Red Nova watched his master getting sucked away in complete terror, "A Raging Spirit! Lift up the very cries of Creation itself! Synchro Summon!" Soon 'Red Dragon Archfiend' finished absorbing the Crimson Devil, "Come forth, 'Red Nova Dragon'!"
The sphere of fire then exploded, and, there in the air, a much bigger, much more powerful-looking version of 'Red Dragon Archfiend' had shown itself. 'Red Nova Dragon' (also known as 'Scar-Red Nova Dragon') was a gigantic scarlet red-colored, armored dragon that looked similar to 'Red Dragon Archfiend', but instead with skin-covered horns, a thinner jaw, and four wings. Spikes also lined its massive, powerful body (Level: 12/ATK: 3500/DEF: 3000). The blank card then filled itself in with 'Red Nova Dragon's' illustration and stats, while the monster itself was shown to be behind Michael.
"Impossible! You've subdued my master, the Crimson Devil!" quivered Familiar of Red Nova, before focus went towards 'Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl' (ATK: 3800), "But even if you did that, your efforts to win are all in vain! With only 3500 ATK, even 'Scar-Red Nova' can't beat 'Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl', who has 3800 ATK!"
"'Red Nova Dragon's' first effect!" countered Michael, placing his new card ('Red Nova Dragon') onto his Duel Disk, "It gains 500 ATK for each Tuner in my GY!" He got surrounded by the images of three Monster Cards from his GY ('Attack Gainer', 'Dark Resonator', and 'Creation Resonator'), "There are three Tuners there," The spirits of the three Tuner monsters raced into the sky, "increasing 'Scar-Red Nova's' ATK by 1500 all the way to 5000!"
'Red Nova Dragon' absorbed the spirits and let out a demonic roar as its ATK went through the roof (ATK: 3500 → 5000).
"No way…" cowered Familiar of Red Nova, knowing he was finished, "H-How dare you do this to my master!"
"I will show you no mercy," assured Michael ruthlessly, "All of the various strategies I've used to gain ultimate power… How I evolved my very soul into something new!" He entered the Battle Phase, "Battle! 'Red Nova Dragon', destroy 'Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl'!" As he announced the attack name, 'Red Nova Dragon' started gaining a fiery aura around its body, "Burning Soul!"
'Red Nova Dragon', through magnificent aerial dynamics that rivaled those from 'Shooting Star Dragon', burst through the body of 'Abyss Ruler Mictlancoatl' and left a wound there. The enemy monster exploded from destruction, and Familiar of Red Nova screamed from the backlash as he LP was wiped out (LP: 200 → 0).
DUEL RESULTS: Michael Atlas wins!
Due to the chaos going on, a large stone pillar crumbled and started falling…towards Familiar of Red Nova. Unable to get out of the way in time, the flame spirit was seemingly crushed to death as the whole building started coming down. The stone staircase crumbled, and Matt, Discord, Zack, Carlie, and James R. started falling. The platform Michael was standing on also crumbled apart, and he started falling, too. The Crimson Dragon, not about to let the chosen ones fall to their doom, roared and chased after them.
(outside…)
Back outside, the people gathered around watched as the fire around the Incan pyramid died down and the building was finally demolished. They gathered around the ruined pyramid, finding some foreigners laying in the middle of the debris. Luckily, they didn't appear to be injured, and Michael was the first to regain consciousness.
"Where are we?" he asked groggily, before being approached by some of the Incan people, "What happened?"
"¿Qué acaba de pasar en nombre del cielo?" A man pressed in Spanish, before speaking in English, "We were on our way to pray at this temple when it suddenly got surrounded by a pillar of fire before…"
"What just happened in there?" The same woman from earlier wondered.
Michael got back up, not knowing how to explain what happened. Suddenly, he heard his friends beginning to wake up.
"Oh man, what a rush," groaned James R..
"Did that flaming dragon save us from falling to our deaths?" came from Carlie.
"Well, what I want to know is who the hell built a pyramid like that in the first place?" finished Zack.
"I don't know, Zack," answered Discord gravely, as two men helped him back up, "and, perhaps, we may never know the answer."
Indeed, they would never know the answer about both Familiar of Red Nova and the Crimson Devil. But maybe, just perhaps, they would find out more about this mysterious Crimson Dragon and the cards they all own.
END FLASHBACK
The flashback ended, with present day-Michael still looking at his 'Red Nova Dragon' Synchro Monster Card before finally pocketing it.
"Our encounter with Familiar of Red Nova was one of the first steps my friends and I took to learn that we were Signers, destined to fight the Dark Signers and save the world," thought Michael, before turning to look out the nearby window, "The thing that worries me is what the Dark Signers will potentially try next?"
That's a good question, indeed. What would the Dark Signers try next in order to beat the Signers, and would it be successful?
(elsewhere…)
Inside one classroom, Mr. Kisaka was busy doing some paperwork—while also thinking about the Turbo Duel between Matt and Ms. Simmons. He had been very surprised that his longtime friend had actually been defeated in a duel, but was otherwise very proud of both Ms. Simmons and Matt. As Mr. Kisaka took a sip from his mug of coffee and went back to his work, before he overheard a giggling sound echoing somewhere around the classroom. At first, Ledonir Kisaka looked up when he heard the voice, but, otherwise, paid no real attention. However, a few seconds later, he stopped his work and stood up from the desk as his eyes narrowed and started glowing a purple, just like how the eyes of Grady, Gwen, and Ashima glowed when they got possessed by one of the late Rutger's spiders. However, Mr. Kiska standing was followed by very familiar shrill laughter. It would seem Muruta Azrael and the remains of the Dark Signers were on the move again, but what would they have one of Orb's teachers do? But here's a little something for all of you to think about; what if…this was the doing of something else entirely? Find out the answer next time.
As I mentioned in the last chapter, the original ending scene that was there ended up getting cut and moved to here instead. Anyway, in addition to a sweet duel adaptation, we've learn just how Michael obtained "Red Nova Dragon" and Burning Soul, causing him to become stronger than when he was the champion before Matt defeated him. This one chapter might have been a brief breather, but stay tuned for next time since we're gonna be in for an epic two-part duel, where Michael is going to be getting a huge amount of focus and a possible rematch with an old foe. Until then, please continue staying safe, everyone.
