Yu-Gi-Oh Arc-V: The Ritual Fragment of Ice
Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh! Arc-V, its characters, or any other content that may be traced to other sources found in this story. I do own the OCs and the story itself.
Last time on Yu-Gi-Oh Arc-V: The Ritual Fragment of Ice: The Lancers had begun their escape from the facility with an entertainment duel as a distraction. However, their efforts proved futile as they were recaptured and send to the Hall of Dominion.
Hey guys, know it's been a long time but I'm finally back and what better way than with a new chapter of my first story.
"Speaking out loud"
"Speaking in thought/dream/flashback"
"Monsters speaking"
Enjoy!
Chapter 11: Warriors or Sacrifices
After hearing Yuki's story, the group was quiet for most of the remaining journey. Until Sawatari decided to break the silence. "So, what is this Hall of Dominion again?"
"It's the headquarters of the High Council." Crow replied. "Those fossils rarely leave their guarded sanctuary."
"Never mind them, I'm more concerned about Tony and the others." Shinji said, "Where in the world did those officers take them?"
"If I had to guess, the same place they were going to send us." Tokumatsu said with a frown. "While I understand your concern, I'd be more worried about us right now. If we caught attention of the High Council, nothing pleasant will follow."
"Does he have to make us even more nervous about this." Yuki thought
"Thanks, Tokumatsu." Yuya sighed. "As if we weren't anxious enough already with everything that's been going on. Not only did we fail to escape, we still have no idea whether Yuzu and the others are safe."
"Yugo wherever you are, you better hope I don't find you." Yuki thought remembering the image of Yugo and Yuzu that started all of this.
-In a random part of the city-
"Brrrr! That's weird, where did that chill down my spine come from?" said Yugo
-Back to the Plot-
"Oh, I think I see our destination." Dennis suddenly pointed outside at a large, tower-like construct. "Damn, it really looks like some sort of palace."
Shortly afterwards, the chopper landed almost right in front of the entrance, with the men dressed in white uniforms gesturing at them to move forward.
"Hey Yuki before we go in, I just wanted to say, sorry about making you talk about your past. I didn't mean to upset you." Yuya told the assassin
"Whatever Yuya I really only said all that to shut the lot of you up." Yuki retorted surprising the group
"T-Then was none of it true. Did you just make all that up!" said an increasingly aggravated Gongenzaka, "I shed tears over that story!"
"I'll leave that to your imaginations." Yuki replied callously "If I haven't made obvious before, let me make it clear now. I do not care about any of you or any of your problems… the only thing keeping me here are my own interests and those interests alone. Now let's get this over with." With that Yuki walked with the guards slightly ahead of the group
"The sad part is, this is totally expected from him." Said Sawatari "I wouldn't be surprised if his heart is literally made of ice."
"I'd take those odds." Dennis added
"How do you put up with him?" Crow whispered to Serena
"I tend to just disregard everything he says." The girl replied
"Yuki Kōriryu, is anything you say true or are you just an Academia spy?" Shun said in his head "However, I saw real pain and anger in your eyes when you told that story. No one could fake that. You're still suspicious, but you're not at the top of my list right now." Shun then quickly glared at Dennis
Upon entering inside, the group found themselves in a large, luxurious hall reminiscent of a courtroom. Seated on elegant thrones placed on the highest balcony were the five individuals who had ordered Roger to bring the Lancers and their associates before them, Neo Domino City's High Council.
After everyone was led to the side of the hall, Roger also walked inside, accompanied by two more uniformed men, coming to a stop at the midst of the room. Upon seeing that everyone was present, the man sitting on the middle throne spoke.
"Ah, thank you for your prompt response to our request, Director Roger. Before we start, I would like to introduce myself and my colleagues first. The man sitting on the rightmost chair from mine is Gael. The one next to him is Gray. To my immediate left is our only female member, Azul, and next to her is Bordeaux. As for me, I'm called White Taki. I'm pleased to make your acquaintance, everyone."
"No one here gives a damn you bag of bones, it's not like we're here because we want to be." Yuki thought
"Well then, let's begin." White Taki said. "First, Director Roger, you seem quite displeased that we didn't allow you to handle them at your own discretion. Might I inquire as to why?"
"Is it not obvious?" Roger pointed at the Lancers. "These people have incited the Commons and planned to disrupt this City's peace and order! It's clear from the testimonies of their arrested comrades and their break-out from the Facility!"
"Stop messing around!" Sawatari shot back. "We merely escaped from prison because we were wrongfully imprisoned! To begin with, why were we arrested in the first place!?"
"And come on, 'incited the Commons' how exactly did we do that?" Yuki remarked
"You resisted Security. When people resist the law, it gives rise to larger and larger forms of disharmony unless uprooted at the source quickly." Roger said with a severe expression. "Disturbing the peace alone is an indisputable crime."
"That was self-defense!" said Yuki
"You in particular broke an officer's arm." Roger fired back "And then almost killed a prison guard by kicking his neck in. Fortunately, the paramedics were able to save him."
"Once again, self-defense." Yuki said in an annoyed tone. "And seriously that guy survived!? Being with these Lancers is starting to make me lose my edge."
"You guys were the ones who started it first!" Yuya proclaimed. "The moment we arrived in this dimension, we were surrounded by Security members!"
"Dimension?" Roger turned back to the Council. "Did you hear that, esteemed Council members? He just said that he and his comrades 'arrived in this dimension'. What exactly does he mean by that? Unless these are just the ramblings of a delusional child." That last comment earned a stern look from Yuya.
"Dimension?" Tokumatsu wondered. "What's that about?"
"On the other hand, if you take his words at face value, that means they came from another dimension." Roger continued. "That would explain why they can use summoning methods not present in our world, like Fusion, Xyz, Ritual and Pendulum."
As he recounted the summoning methods, Serena, Dennis, Shun, Yuki and Yuya all hardened their expressions at the mention of their preferred summoning method. Making it apparent that Roger had been watching them for quite some time.
"Do these users of unknown summoning methods have a purpose for appearing in the City?" Roger let out a cold smile. "I ordered Security to arrest them in order to investigate that."
"You guys are from another dimension." Tokumatsu turned to Yuya. "Is that the case, Yuya?"
"Yeah." Yuya nodded. "We came here from another dimension called Standard. But…please believe me when I say we didn't come to this Synchro Dimension in order to cause trouble!"
"That's right." A familiar voice interjected. "Our aim isn't to cause mayhem."
At the moment, the doors opened once more, revealing the figures of Reiji, Reira and Tsukikage.
"Reiji!"
"And Reira too!" Sawatari and Yuya exclaimed.
"And the prodigal asshole returns." Yuki commented, which Reiji ignored.
We Lancers came to this Synchro Dimension in order to protect it from Academia's invasion." Reiji stated as he approached Roger. "We would also like to make an alliance with your dimension in order to win the Dimensional War."
"Lancers?"
"It's short for Lance Defense Soldiers." Sawatari responded to Crow's question with a proud expression. "The truth is, we're Duel Soldiers meant to take on Academia!"
"A soldier!?" Tokumatsu said with a look of disbelief on his face. "You!?"
"If we're talking about Sawatari, then not really. I'm more or less just keeping him around for food." Yuki smirked. "And Yuya is basically just here as the comic relief."
"HEY!" Yuya/Sawatari exclaimed
"How dare you, that is not funny!?" Sawatari exclaimed
"Why do you always gotta be so hostile!?" Yuya said
"Because shut up!" Yuki fired back with hostility, "and your fever dream of a circus parade when security hounded us wasn't exactly helpful."
"I was trying to defuse the situation, or at least create a distraction for us to escape." Yuya retorted "What were you going to do, throw knives at everyone!"
"Are still mad about that? It was one time." Yuki said, "It's not like it's the first time I've done that."
"That doesn't make it better!" said Yuya, Sawatari, and Gongenzaka in near unison
"I'm going to die surrounded by the biggest idiots in the 5 dimensions." Kurosaki thought in dismay
The argument was interrupted by Roger's laughter, causing Sawatari to turn to him with an angry expression. "What's so funny!?"
"Please forgive me." Roger said as he composed himself, although he still had a mocking grin on his face. "But between this talk of a dimensional war and this bad comedy routine, it's more than a little hard to take you seriously."
"It's no lie!" Sawatari insisted. "Listen here! You may not believe this, but this world-"
"That's enough." Gael cut Sawatari off. "We've already heard about that from Reiji Akaba."
"About the dimensional war…" Gray continued.
"…as well as about the Lancers." Azul finishing her colleague's sentence.
"Correct, Chairman?" Bordeaux asked.
"Yes, this talk is over." White Taki replied so.
"You already heard about it; you say?" Roger sneered. "Does the Council really believe such ridiculous claims!?"
"We don't know if it's fact or fantasy." Gael stated.
"After all, there are people who have indeed come from different dimensions before us." Gray said.
"You must believe that the existence of other dimensions has some degree of credibility, after all isn't that why you had them arrested for investigation." Azul pointed out. "Isn't that correct?"
"…You're not wrong." Roger admitted somewhat reluctantly, but then smirked. "However, I acted in such a manner because I was certain their aim is to invade our dimension!"
"Don't spout such senseless words!" exclaimed Gongenzaka
"That's absurd!" said Sawatari
"We are not invaders!" Yuya added. "The invaders are Academia! We came here in order to protect this dimension from them! Reiji said so before!"
"It's Security's job to protect this City, not yours." Roger declared. "We do not require help from the likes of you."
"Pfft, your subordinates' dueling skills haven't exactly been what I'd call impressive, I'd say you need to reevaluate your staff, Director Roger." Yuki snorted. "As things stand right now, Academia will steamroll this city before the day is through when they arrive."
"Your opinion carries no weight here child." Roger narrowed his eyes at Yuki. "Regardless, Security will determine who you people are—"
"No, that is up to us." Gael interrupted Roger.
"In order to do that, the Executive Council will handle everyone present." Grey announced.
"Everyone!?" Tokumatsu looked surprised. "You doubt me as well!? Even though I've been imprisoned in the Facility for ten years!?"
"No exceptions. Even if it is merely by association." Azul declared, prompting Tokumatsu to growl.
"If you are our allies, we would like you to prove that to us." Bordeaux said.
"Prove it how exactly?" Sawatari asked.
"Participation in the Friendship Cup." Reiji suddenly stated.
"The Friendship Cup!?"
"That's what the Executive Council is aiming for." Reiji responded thus to the shocked Yuya. "To have the Lancers participate in the tournament and display their skills."
"Don't tell me…the rest of us will participate as well?" Tokumatsu's eyes widened. "I can actually enter the City's largest Duel Tournament, the one I've heard about for so long?"
"I personally would like you to enter as well." White Taki said with his usual smile. "After all, you were the catalyst for the formation of the Friendship Cup."
"I was the what?"
"The catalyst. Ten years ago, your arrest led the Commons youth to revolt against us." White Taki began explaining. "In order to control that situation, the Duel Chasers were formed. However, disorder only increased as we enforced greater control. Ultimately, we came up with a Duel Tournament to promote harmony between the Tops and Commons, appropriately named the Friendship Cup. The winner earns the honor of being a shared King for both Tops and Commons, just like the current King, Jack Atlas."
"What shared King?" Crow spat out. "I'm not entering this tournament! I refuse to put on a show for the Tops!"
"I know how you feel, but if we enter, the kids can see that we're doing okay." Shinji said. "Besides, I doubt we really have a choice in the matter. But when we get our chance…"
"Alright!" Tokumatsu cheered. "Now I can finally fulfil my promise to the city children as well as my underlings!"
"Oh Yeah!" Sawatari also looked excited. "In that case, I'll dazzle the audiences of the Synchro Dimension with my Entertainment Duel!"
"Oh, great something else to be angry at." Yuki thought to himself
"We still have to find Yuzu." Yuya said
"Oh?" Roger raised his eyebrow. "You wouldn't be referring to Yuzu Hiiragi would you?"
"You-" Yuya sounded furious. "Don't tell me that… you arrested Yuzu too!"
"She hasn't been arrested." Roger assured him. "She's an important Duelist who's also participating in the Friendship Cup after all."
"Yuzu is entering the Friendship Cup!?" Everyone was surprised by this sudden announcement.
"I bet this is Yugo's fault somehow" Yuki thought
"If you're that worried about her, I can let you see that she's doing well." Roger let out a sly smile before turning to the Council. "I understand. I consent to their participation in the Friendship Cup as well. However, I would like to make a proposal."
"A proposal?" Gael asked. "What is it?"
"Every year, on the eve of the Friendship Cup, the King carries out an exhibition match." Roger pointed at Yuya. "How about letting him serve as the opponent?"
"Me!?"
"Why him?" Azul questioned Roger.
"From what I've seen, he's the one most adept at the bizarre summoning method called Pendulum." Roger explained. "Plus, as an Entertainer, I'm sure his battle with the King will result in an awe-inspiring spectacle that will amaze the audience."
"I see." Bordeaux nodded. "Is that acceptable, Chairman?"
"Yes, that's fine." White Taki turned to Reiji. "What about you?"
"I have no objections either."
"In that case, please lead the participants to their quarters." White Taki gestured at the guards. "As for Yuya Sakaki, escort him to the pit area."
"H-Hey!" Yuya cried out as the group is led away by the white-uniformed guards. "Where are you taking everyone!?"
"Don't worry." Gael reassured him. "We have no intention of putting any of you in further danger."
"You may have been fugitives, but now, you are the warriors who will vie for the right to challenge the King." Azul continued.
"As long as they keep winning that is." Bordeaux said. "Correct, Chairman?"
"Yes." White Taki replied. "We will look after them as guests, as long as they emerge victorious in they're Duels."
"I don't think I liked the way they said that." Dennis remarked to himself
"Yuya, Yuzu must be watching close by." Gongenzaka said. "Win this and set her mind at ease!"
"Show our strength to everyone in the Synchro Dimension!" Sawatari exclaimed
"Crush that traitor Jack Atlas!" Crow exclaimed
One by one the group exited the room.
"Watch yourself during this Duel, Yuya." Yuki advised his twin. "Block out all outside distractions and don't underestimate your opponent. Whoever this King is I doubt he got to his current position with anything less than first rate strength."
"Y-Yeah I got it, Yuki."
"Also, at least try to not make us look stupid."
"I swear he brings out the worst in me." Yuya thought with a tick mark on his head.
After that exchange, Yuki was also led out of the hall where he was stopped by Reiji followed by Reira and Tsukikage. "Luck was with you this time." He said forebodingly
"What is that supposed to me?" Yuki retorted in moody tone
"What I mean is… it is fortunate that you're not as good at killing as you think you are." Reiji said which prompted an annoyed looked from the blue-eyed boy.
"Oh, you're referring to that prison guard. I'm just a little out of practice." Yuki said coldly causing Reiji to adjust his glasses before reveling a sharp look in his eyes.
"Let me put this in a way you'll understand. I have invested a large sum of time, money and resources into the Lancers and into defeating my father. A plan that requires the support of the Synchro Dimension. And I will not have you hinder that plan with senseless bloodshed. Despite what you may think this is a mission of peace and if you continue to jeopardize this plan, then you can find your own way back to the Ritual Dimension. Understand?"
"…Understood, Mr. Akaba." Yuki replied in a venomous tone as his "employer" walked away
As Yuki was about to turn away. "…Why do you pretend to be a bad person?" Reira asked causing Yuki to stop again and then look at the child
"Who said anything about pretending." Yuki replied coldly
"You bite at anyone who comes near you and act like almost nothing matters or affects you. But the confusing part is that your whole reason for coming here… is for the sake of someone else."
Yuki took a pause before answering Reira "Don't try to get to know me kid, your mental health will be better off for it."
And with that Yuki was led into an elevator, which brought him to the top of the Executive Council building. Upon exiting the elevator, Yuki noticed he was in a vast atrium ringed by balconies, with several doors on each floor.
"Fancy. Where are we?"
"We are currently in the penthouse situated on top of the Executive Council building." A bellboy said. "This is where participants of the Friendship Cup stay for the duration of the tournament. Now, allow me to lead you to your room, Yuki Kōriryu. I'm certain you are eager to see the King's exhibition match."
"Sure." Yuki said in a sarcastic tone, his eyes then motioned to the Real Solid Vision handcuffs. "Can you take these off now? They're really uncomfortable."
"Oh, my apologies." The bellboy turned to the guard. "I'll take it from here. You may release the participant."
The guard nodded as he pressed a few buttons on his terminal, causing the handcuffs to vanish. After that, he took his leave without a word.
"Wow they really make you feel welcome here, don't they?" Yuki said sarcastically as he stretched his arms.
"I apologize for any discomfort." The bellboy said. "In any case, let's hurry. All participants must be inside their rooms by the appointed time."
After walking past a few doors, Yuki was led inside a luxurious room beyond anything he had seen before. Upon surveying the surroundings, Yuki then tried to open the door, which had closed behind him when the bellboy left, but, unsurprisingly, it was locked.
"Locked in a cell once again." Yuki sighed. "Well, at least this cell smells better than last one." Yuki then jumps onto the bed. "And so much more comfortable." He says stretching across it.
Yuki's attention then turned to the wall-mounted television that turned on by itself, where he sees a blonde woman in a cowgirl outfit. The name Melissa Claire was appeared at the bottom of the screen. She went on to introducing Yuya and Jack Atlas. From the enthusiastic cheers Yuki assumed that Jack was pretty popular in the City even if people like Crow and Shinji despised him for supposedly being a traitor to the Commons.
"Now, let's see if this King lives up to the hype or at least see how fast he can make Yuya kiss the pavement."
As the two Duelists moved into the starting line, Yuki was surprised by Jack's declaration to the audience that he would finish this Duel in three turns. Judging from Yuya's expression, he was outraged by this statement.
"He's getting played and he doesn't even know it yet. If he's allowing himself to be manipulated by Jack before the battle even starts, then this is already over."
Shortly afterwards, the Duel started, with Jack taking the first move as he predicted summoning his Red Wyvern synchro monster. Although Yuya furiously counterattacked with Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon and Rune-Eyes Pendulum Dragon on his turn, Jack used the Reject Reborn trap to bring back Red Wyvern and Red Resonator, along with ending the Battle Phase.
"You said it yourself; an Entertainment Duel. However, your Duel is nothing more than self-satisfaction; far from entertainment!" Jack said through the screen
Then, during his turn, Jack used his Monsters to call out his ace, Scarlight Red Dragon Archfiend, using its effect to wipe out Yuya's Monsters and reduce his Life Points to 0, winning the Duel in exactly three turns as he had previously declared. This resulted in Yuya being blasted off his D-Wheel and taking a nasty fall.
"Can't say I didn't see that coming." Yuki said
"So, this is the current Duel King of Neo Domino City, Jack Atlas. Very interesting." Skoll said appearing on the bed with Hati.
Yuki had to admit that the man was truly skilled. Not only was he a talented Duelist, he was also excellent at controlling how the Duel played out, since he basically was leading Yuya by the nose the whole time. People are right to call him the King. Furthermore, he showed great adaptability, instantly grasping the function of Action Cards and the way to use them. Yuki couldn't help but feel if Jack wasn't so grandiose with his dueling he would make a great assassin duelist.
"Whoever ends up facing Jack Atlas in the final match will certainly be in for a very tough battle." Skoll remarked
"Yuya's confidence is going to take a nosedive after a beating like that. Between Jack's condescending attitude towards his Entertainment Dueling and how he absolutely destroyed Yuya in the exact way he said he would. He is unlikely to recover in time for the main event." Said Hati
"True, though now that I think about it, Jack's words sounded less like criticism and more like something a strict teacher would say to a failing student." Yuki answered back. "Boy do I know that feels, Jack sounded just like my instructors from Blood Vulture whenever I made a mistake." Yuki thought to himself as the image of a large man a pointed haircut flashed in his mind. "Well, not like I care about what happens to the clown." Yuki eventually said. "Even if we're right about all that, it's Yuya's problem and he needs to deal with it. Besides, the Executive Council's words and that annoying Roger's attitude are more worrying right now anyway."
"I do not like the long-nosed man. His smells like trouble." Hati commented
"And I find those council members untrustworthy." Said Skoll
Yuki moved to the window, gazing at the Duel Palace below him. "According to the Executive Council, the participants would remain in this place only as long as they kept winning and advancing in the Friendship Cup. So, then what happens to those who lose? Judging from this society's attitude towards losers in general, probably nothing good. Then there is Roger's aggression towards the Lancers, as well as the fact that he was obviously at odds with the Council. I liked it better when I all I had to worry about was who to point my knife at. Such a simpler time without politics being brought into everything." Yuki said as he jumped on the bed. "Guess we're all stuck in this place for the foreseeable future. Now that I think about it this tournament might be the best way to find powerful allies and keep track of the Lancers. As much as I hate to admit it, Reiji Akaba does seem to have a handle on this." The youth finished as sleep claimed him.
-FLASHBACK/DREAM-
A large building is seen on a dark cloudy night with several lights flashing on it. Inside of a smaller nearby building five youths are seen. Each are wearing full body ninja like attire consisting of sleeveless kimono-style tops, arm-warmers and leggings, with forearm and shin armor along with hoods, scarves, and military style goggles to help cover their faces, all dark blue in color but also had some black highlights mixed in, they also each had an assortment of throwing knives, various small weapons and duel disks on them. There were some noticeable differences; one had a pendant shaped like a snake tooth and unlike the others carried a katana on his back, another who seemed to be the only female of the group seemed to have a bracelet on her left arm that resembled a fish scale with a red gem in the center and was looking at the building with binoculars through a window, the next youth was taller than the other two and had his duel disk projecting some kind map, one had a large and bulky build, and the final youth who was shorter than the rest of his peers and seemed to carry an assortment of small explosive devices unlike his coworkers.
"So, the target is in that building correct?" The dark azure figure, who seemed to be the leader asked the female.
"Correct o fearless leader." The girl responded with a playful tone and salute
The leader nodded, "W4 is our little "hello" ready?" the leader asked his shorter comrade.
"Just waiting for the go-ahead W Leader." W4 responded holding up a detonator.
"Good… W2 how's security looking right now." Leader asked the one with the holographic scan on his duel disk.
"According to the bio-thermal readings, about a dozen guards on each of the upper floors and two guards right outside the target's office." Wolf 2 answered
"Alright then, the big man wants this done in thirty. So, let's keep it simple, go in, kill the guy, and meet on the roof for our exit. W1 secure the roof and deal with anyone who comes up there. W2 take care of the security cameras, erase any and all footage. Leave no evidence we were here. 3 and 4 you're with me, we'll make our way to the target's office." The leader said as his team nodded in acknowledgement. "But first, W4 give the guards below something to do." The leader said to his subordinate as both of them activated their duel disks.
"Yes sir." W4 answered as a sort of holographic guidance system was projected on his disk. Down on the ground a white van can be seen starting up and exiting the building the youths are in and began driving towards the entrance of the other building. However, the van did not go unnoticed by the two suit and tie wearing guards standing at the entrance as it got closer.
"Hey, were we getting any kind of delivery tonight?" asked one of the guards pointing at the van
"I don't think so." The other one answered as the van continued to drive closer. "They're… uh… they're not stopping."
"No, I think they're speeding up actually." The first guard said, just then he had a sudden realization. "Oh shit! JUMP OUT OF THE WAY!" he exclaimed as the two guards leaped to either side as the van crashed into the entrance doors and exploded completely destroying the lobby creating large amounts of smoke and fire.
"That should keep a large chunk of the target's personal occupied. The unmanned exploding van trick never fails." W4 said
"Good, now we can enter under a veil of smoke." The leader said as pulled a card from his deck. "I activate Frozen Shackles Gleipnir!" the leader said as large icy chains appeared and connected the two buildings like a bridge. "This will get us four floors below the target. Wolf Squad move out!" With that the assassins used the blades on their duel disks as makeshift ziplines with the chains, ziplined through the smoke, and crashed through the window into the building, after which the chains dispersed into particles. From there the assassins split up and move throughout the building with ninja like speed as the guards on the lower floors dealt with the fire.
-On the Roof-
Several guards stationed near a helicopter noticed the fire and smoke from below. "What is going on down there?"
"Not anything you need to worry about." A mysterious voice from behind them said. The men turned around and saw it was the ninja clad female. "Sorry guys, nothing personal." She said as she activated her duel disk.
Another guard is seen in what seems to been a monitoring room looking through the security cameras seeing several other guards engaging Ghosts 3 and 4 in different areas of the building. "Just what are we dealing with here" he said in disbelief
"Angus the Great Bear attack!" The monster clad in bear fur swung its axe causing shockwaves through the hallway dispatching several guards. "Too easy" 3 said before moving on to the next group of opponents.
As this was happening 4 found himself surrounded by about half a dozen guards "End of the line punk." One of the guards said pulling out a gun however 4 seemed unfazed.
"Yeah for you. Sorry, this will be painful but short." He said as a limbless creature appeared, causing the guards to step back before they were consumed by the creature's stream of fire. They're screams of agony gone the next second.
"Like I said, painful but short."
"Damn it all this is a nightmare." A frustrated guard grimaced as he watched from the monitor room the intruders cutting down his comrades.
"I better inform the boss about the situati-" he was cut off mid-sentence as he fell lifelessly to the floor, a throwing knife lodged into the back of his neck. Courtesy of Ghost 2 who made his way to the control panel.
"Now then, I'll just delete all footage recorded within the last, let's say 30 minutes, turn off all functioning cameras and just like that no record of us at work. Well minus our motley crew's handy work." 2 said before taking his leave his task complete.
-Meanwhile-
A lean adult male, with short brown hair and dark eyes, wearing an expensive looking black suit, is seen at a desk in an office type room clenching a phone in a stressful manner.
"Dammit, what the hell was that!?" He said before pulling up a monitor of the buildings front entrance. Revealing fire, smoke, and the wreckage of a crashed vehicle. "That is not a good omen." He commented as a guard entered the room.
"Kousei sir! A van has just crashed into the lobby."
"I'm well aware of that Brian." Kousei said annoyed, "Uugh, if this is who I think it is, time to bounce, prepare my helicopter we leave in five."
"Understood sir." The guard known as Brian responded taking out a phone, "Hello its me prepare Mr. Kousei's Transpo-" just then Brian was cut off by the sound of screams, gurgling and what seemed to be running water coming from his phone.
"What the?" Just as Brian finished a large rush of water could be seen running down the large window behind the two men like a waterfall. Along with the water, several bodies, assumingely guards, could be falling down as well with a transport helicopter going down with them. The two men ran to the window just in time to see their transport plummet to the ground in a fiery explosion. Leaving the pair in shock and horror.
"Dear lord what is happening out there." Kousei said with dread
-Meanwhile on the roof-
On the roof, the female assailant could be seen. The floor was wet and riddled with puddles, no other people could be seen. But most notably was the large silhouette behind her. It was that of a huge serpent like creature with a spear like horn on its forehead."Well that's my job done. Now just to wait for the boys to finish up." The girl said as the creature lowered its almost as if it was trying to nuzzle its master.
"No one is responding." Brian said after attempting several calls. This caused Kousei to become more anxious as he was packing up a briefcase. Then a second guard came in weapon in hand.
"Sir I fear your safety is in jeopardy, we must leave."
"Yes Eugene, that much is obvious. Forget it. We'll just take our chances and make a break for the car." Kousei said taking both a framed picture and a duel disk out of his desk. "Eugene, Brian prepare our escape route. We'll inform my business partners of what's happened after we are a safe distance away." The man said to this two bodyguards who nodded and ran out the door. Kousei then looked at the picture again which was of a dark haired woman who looked several months pregnant. "Looks like I've pissed off the wrong people."
Just then a chilling wind could be felt in the room, when Kousei looked up he saw ice coming from the door that began covering the walls, floor, and ceiling spreading more than half way across the room.
"What is going on now? First fire then water now ice. Brian, Eugene are you there?" Kousei said in a nervous tone as he put the picture down and activated his duel disk. There was now answer just a brief chilling silence before footsteps could be heard and soon a pair of glowing blue eyes could be seen out of the darkness of the hallway beyond the room. From the darkness came. Then the leader of the assailants entered the room slowly. W Leader had his duel disk and cards at the ready
"A child." Kousei muttered in confusion, "Well whatever I'm not going down without a fight." He said in defiance ready to duel. Ghost leader also appeared ready.
Kousei: (LP: 4000) (hand: 5) (field: 0)
Wolf Leader: (LP: 4000) (hand: 5) (field: 0)
"I go first. I activate the ritual spell Curse of the Masked Beast in order to perform ritual summon. I sacrifice Ritual Raven who can cover the entire level cost since my ritual monster is DARK. RITUAL SHOKAN! APPEAR! LEVEL 8, The Masked Beast!" A tiny man faced bird briefly appeared on Kousei's field, it was then absored into a demonic patterned jar which then shattered and demonic looking monster with masks decorating its body appeared in its place. "Turn End."
Ritual Raven: (LVL 1/DARK/FIEND/ATK 300/DEF 300)
The Masked Beast: (LVL 8/DARK/FIEND/ATK 3200/DEF 1800)
"Freeze…" The cold wind blew the room once again. Suddenly it became a blizzard swirling behind the assassin with the silhouette of a dragon able to be seen behind the veil of snow. The Masked Beast was poised to fight as the dragon prepared to battle.
"… and shatter." Ominous words in cold yet almost feral tone came from the duelist. With a roar from the snow clad beast a blizzard is fired at Kousei and his monster.
-back on the roof-
Wolf Squad, minus their leader is seen on roof of the infiltrated building alarms and sirens can be heard in the distance.
"Evac is almost here. Where is our squad leader?" Asked 2 slightly impatient
"Not my job to keep track of him." 4 answered back before 1 smacked him on the head "OW!"
"Don't be mean. And yes it was job to go with him to the target's location. Your's too 3." 1 said reprimanding her teammates.
"Forgive me, dealing with security took longer than expected." 3 Said a slight bow "Besides I'm sure our leader is wrapping up as we speak."
As if waiting for a cue the W Leader appeared behind W3 giving the team a fright.
"Gah! How many times have we told not to do that Yuki!" W3 said in annoyance
"Can't, too fun." W leader said lifting his googles and hood revealing Yuki underneath. Following this, the rest of the squad lifted what covered their faces revealing Shina, Everett, Kiba and Ricky.
"So what about the target?"
"Oh don't worry its taken care of." Yuki answering Kiba's question
-Back at Kousei's office-
Several guards run into Kousei's office only to stop in shock seeing the room almost completely frozen, but more importantly the lifeless body of their boss covered in frost. Then one guard turned to the rest of the group.
"Call the family. Tell them that the Vultures were here."
-Roof-
"So with the target eliminated I guess it's time we leave." Kiba said touching an ear piece he was wearing. "This is Wolf 2, target is eliminated and all squad members are accounted for. Alright, heading for pick up location now."
"They ready for us?" Ricky asked to which Kiba responded with a nod
"Well then time to get to the rendezvous." Yuki said pulling a card, "Time to fly, I summon Arctic Zero Ritual Dragon." With a flash of blue light the ice dragon appeared carrying the assassins on its back as it flew into the sky.
In the sky the dragon flys close to a nearby cargo helicopter which promptly opens its rear cargo door allowing the assassins to jump in afterwards the dragon disappears.
Just then a buff man with pointy hair wearing a dark colored military uniform and an angry scowl. Prompting the assassins to stand in attention as he began to speak in stern commanding tone.
"The target has been successfully eliminated, so the mission has been completed." He began exciting the team, "However, the client wanted this done quietly, With the stunt you lot pulled this is likely to go on the news." Hearing this dejected the assassins as he continued, "You are assassins of Blood Vulture, you move quick and quietly through the night, you obey the contract, snuff out the target and disappear without leaving a trace. You do not, for example push helicopters off of buildings." The man continued looking at Shina specifically when he said the last bit before he turned to look at Yuki. "Yuki as squad leader you are held to a higher standard than your piers as such you also held responsible for their actions. You will meet me in the training center once we return to the academy."
"Understood sir." Yuki responded with a small bow
"Good, now take your seats." The man finished and the proceeded into the cockpit
"We're never gonna win with him are we?" Ricky asked
"Ricky, shut up." Shina said back in a tired tone
Meanwhile in the cockpit, the man sits down next to the pilot who is revealed to be Harada
"Those children cause more trouble than they're worth." The man stated
"Considering you have committed as much time and effort to their development as I have, I'm not sure I believe you." Harada stated back, "Then are young they will learn Cobra."
-Dream/Flashback end-
Yuki suddenly awoke in the middle of the night. He got outta bed and walked to window staring at cityscape at night.
"I've been MIA for quite a number of number of days now. I wonder how the guys are doing." He said himself
-Meanwhile in the STANDARD DIMENSION-
The enormous LDS tower is seen shining under the night sky with all its lights. Just then on the roof of smaller nearby building three figures in ninja like outfits appeared from a blue light.
"So this is Yuki's last known location Everett?" The shortest of the figures asked
"Correct and within that building we will find answers we need." Everett replied
"Good a chance as any to field test your new deck." The other figure remarked, "Now lets go to work."
-Meanwhile in the Fusion DIMENSION-
From within tower inside a small room akin to a prison cell a girl could be seen sitting in front of a mirror with what appeared to be a broken security camera on the desk in front. She had magenta eyes and long dark red hair that ran down her back with lighter strands of red hair in the front. She wore a green jacket with a white undershirt, black pants that reached down her knees, finally on her left arm was a bracelet that resembled a fish scale with a red gem in the center. The had just finished styling her hair into a dragon braid but end was knotted to look like a fish tail.
"Finally finished, this so much harder to do when Kiba is here to help me." After quickly stretching her arms the stood. "Now that I have this fabulous new look time to focus on my escape." Just then the girl could hear someone approaching. "Ah right on time." She said before the door opens and an Academia guard enters carrying a tray of food.
"Alright prisoner time for your mea- Hey wait where did she go." It was true the girl was seemingly gone. As the guard looked around the girl jumped down from the ceiling and struck the guard from behind knocking them out.
"Sorry about that but I have places to be. Also I'll be taking this." The girl said taking the guard's duel disk before beginning to fiddle with it.
"Let's see here, damn no teleportation device on this one but at least there's a map of the island. Good at least I'm not going to be running around blind out here. Okay so I'm in the south tower now where to go from here" As the girl examined the map two specific locations caught her eye. "The east and west towers huh? Judging by how they are marked I'm guessing they're important. Hmm seeing as I don't know where to go yet let's see what's over there." With that the girl ran out of the room to find a large spiral staircase.
"Well now I just feel bad about knocking that poor guy out after he carried that tray all the way up here. But seeing as I have about 5 minutes before they notice that security can I broke I better get a move on. Time for old Shina to have some fun." Shina then began running down the stairs with her current destination being the east tower.
-Author Notes-
So I'm finally back with a new chapter, sorry that it has so long but I think my creative juices have finally begun to flow again. Can't promise consistent updates, life has kept me busy. But I hope you enjoyed the chapter. Also writing duels and designing cards are hard so if you have a suggestion or a card design leave it in the comments and who knows you might just see it, the help is appreciated. The Friendship Cup is set to begin and Blood Vulture sets its sights on LDS. Shina has begun her jailbreak and Yuya suffers a crushing defeat. What will happen next?
-Card Errata-
Absolute Zero Ritual Dragon (LVL 8/WATER/RITUAL/DRAGON/ATK 3000/DEF 2500)
Effect: You can Ritual Summon this card with "Frozen Ritual". Must first be Ritual Summoned. When this card battles you can change all of the monster(s) your opponent controls into Face-up Defense Position and reduce their DEF to 0. (Flip effects are not activated). If this card attacks a Defense Position monster, inflict piercing battle damage to your opponent. If this monster attacks level 5 or higher monster: your opponent's cards and effects cannot be activated until the end of the Damage Step.
Arctic Zero Ritual Dragon: (Level: 7/ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/Water/Dragon/Ritual)
Effect: You can Ritual Summon this card with "Frozen Ritual". Must first be Ritual Summoned. When this card attacks you can change all of monster(s) your opponent controls into Face-up Defense Position and half their DEF. (Flip effects are not activated). If this card attacks a Defense Position monster, inflict piercing battle damage to your opponent. If this monster destroys level 5 or higher monster by battle your opponent controls inflict 1000 points of your opponent.
Frozen Hunter Chieftain Aurora Griffin (LVL8/WATER/SYNCHRO/WINGED BEAST/ATK 2800/DEF 2400)
Effect: 1 Tuner + 1 or more non-Tuner monsters
Once per turn: Destroy all face-up DEF Position monsters your opponent controls and inflict 800 points of damage for each destroyed card. When this face-up card is destroyed (either by battle or by card effect) Special Summon one WATER monster from your GY except this card.
Frozen Hunter Ice Raptor: (WATER/DINOSAUR/LVL 4/ATK 1800/ DEF 700)
Effect: You can tribute this card, if you do special summon up to two "Frozen Hunter Ice Raptor" from your hand, deck, or graveyard. The monster(s) summoned with this effect can't declare an attack this turn. Your opponent must control a monster to activate and resolve this effect. You can only use the of effect of "Frozen Hunter Ice Raptor" once per turn.
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