Shun, Sora, and Yuzu continued to run as explosions went off throughout the city.
"Where are you taking us, Sora?!" Yuzu questioned as they ran.
"A subway tunnel. I scouted it out before coming so it should be a good spot to hide out this invasion while your friends deal with the Obelisk Force. We should be close-"
The boy was cut off by Shun grabbing Yuzu's arm and Sora's collar before leaping into a dark alleyway.
"What was-" Yuzu began to shout before Shun covered her mouth. A few seconds later, the group of Obelisk Force ran marched past the alleyway.
"Nice save, Kurosaki." Sora whispered.
"We should stay put for now." Shun advised.
"All of the people being carded...because of Academia's search for me..." Yuzu said in sadness.
"Yuzu, you can't think like that. Despite their mission, the professor still needs to people to be carded." Sora explained, gaining Shun's interest.
"And why's that?" Shun questioned.
"I'm not entirely sure. I wasn't exactly one of elites but I have a little knowledge on the subject. The Professor wants to unite the four dimensions to create a paradise using some sort of...reactor. But in order to power it, sacrifices are needed." Sora explained.
"So the carding isn't just a way for Academia to conquer the dimensions...it's a way for them to power their machine..." Shun realized.
"So despite them being here to capture me, they would need to card more people for their goal." Yuzu said.
"From what I've gathered, that's correct. But I'm still not sure why they want you and Serena...or what they are doing to Ruri and Rin." Sora said, causing Shun's eyes to widen.
"What did you just say?! What are they doing to Ruri?!" Shun shouted.
"Kurosaki, keep your voice down." Yuzu told the older teen but it was already too late.
"Priority target acquired. And the traitor is with her." An Obelisk Soldiers said into his duel disk.
"Proceed. Capture the girl and the traitor. Card anyone else." The voice of Barrett commanded.
"Yes sir." The Obelisk Soldier nodded as the group of soldiers activated their duel disks.
"I always found you guys annoying. If it's a fight you want then-"
Shun stepped in front of Sora and Yuzu before activating his duel disk.
"Kurosaki, you don't have to do this alone." Yuzu said in a worried tone.
"I refuse to let what happened to Ruri happen again. I'll deal with these guys and meet up with you later." Shun told the girl, causing her to frown.
"But Kurosaki..." Yuzu trailed off, not wanting to leave her teammate behind. Despite everything, they've been through so much already. She swore to herself that she would help him and Yugo save Ruri and Rin. She couldn't do that if he was carded trying to protect her.
"Yuzu...you believed that I wasn't irredeemable...that I wasn't past the point of no return...you remind me of her so much..." Shun said with a slight smile.
"Kurosaki..." The girl uttered.
"I'll give you both some time. I'll deal with these pests and meet up with you." Shun told the girl before turning to the blue haired boy.
"Don't worry, I won't let them lay a finger on her. I promise." Sora sincerely said.
"You better. Or being turned into a card will be the least or your worries." Shun warned.
"I wouldn't have it any other way." Sora smirked before taking Yuzu's hand and beginning to run away.
"Kurosaki, we are going to save Ruri!" Yuzu promised as they ran.
Shun uncharacteristically smiled at her words before turning to the Obelisk Force.
"You are the ones that made my homeland a living hell..."
As Shun paused, he looked at the Obelisk Force with a raging fire in his eyes.
"...So prepare to burn."
"DUEL!"
OP 1 V1: No Pain No Game by Nano
The Ending Of This story
A diagonal image of Yuya amidst a Pendulum background with a bright smile.
I Will Hold It Close As I Wonder So Aimlessly
Below the image of Yuya is Yuto, standing in front of a Xyz portal with a stern yet warm look.
Into this New World
Above the two is Yugo, who stands before a Synchro backdrop with a goofy grin.
The Game Has Only Just Begun
The three hold up their aces, Odd Eyes, Dark Rebellion, and Clear Wing, as they close their eyes...
I Can See It In Your Eyes!
...the three open their eyes in sync with their iris' glowing red, indigo, and cyan respectively as their ace dragons shine, engulfing the screen.
(This Is Where Tomorrow Brings a New Game)
Yuya stands atop a hill overlooking Miami City, his jacket blowing in the wind as a Leo Corporation jet flies past LDS. Yuto is shown in front of the Duel Sanctuary, gazing at the ruined Heartland.
(It's Time To Learn That Pain Is Gain)
Yugo is riding his D-Wheel down a Duel Lane at night, the neon signs and billboards of City aglow with life as he passes by. Out on a boat in the sea, Yuri faces Academia, arms visibly crossed.
READY FIGHT!
Yuya appears riding atop of Odd-Eyes, who fills the screen with its signature Spiral Strike Burst!
(Instrumental)
Odd-Eyes' attack fades, revealing the Four Dimensions. The "Yu-Gi-Oh! ARC-V" logo appears, the words "Altered Destiny" beneath it. Yuya's Pendulum appears in the background, swinging back and forth before the logo fades. Zoom in on the Standard Dimension to see Yuya walking to You Show Duel School.
I Gotta Crush and Paint Away
The Lancers appear standing in front of the LDS logo. From left to right; Hokuto, Masumi, Yaiba stand back-to-back, ready for battle, Yaiba holding his signature wooden katana over his shoulder.
The Anguish Of My Past For Sake Of My Future
Sawatari stands self-assure with a proud grin on his face. Yugo leans on his D-Wheel, sporting a big friendly grin. Serena holds herself ready for battle, the faintest hint of longingness on her face.
Until My Life Comes To An End
Yuya and Yuzu stand close to each other, ready to face the coming battles together. Gongenzaka stands behind of the Standard Pair, arms folded with a steadfast gaze.
I'm Gonna Fight To Tear Apart That Destiny
Yuto stands back-to-back with Kurosaki, who bears a stoic and battle-hardened scowl. Roy is holding up his Duel Disk, trying to look intimidating, failing because he's next to Kurosaki.
(Ahh-Ahh)
Tsukkikage kneels in front of the Akabas, holding an arm out in front of them in a declaration of protection. Reira hides behind Reiji.
Break Out And Start A Revolution
Rightmost is Sora, who is consumed by the shadow and looking away from the group. But two hands reach out to him, causing him to turn around towards the light.
Until You Find The Answer
Cut to the Standard, Xyz and Synchro counterparts together on a grassy hill, gazing at the starry night sky. Yuzu and Ruri rest their heads on Yuya and Yuto's shoulders respectively, who in turn drape an arm around them. Rin does the same with Yugo, who blushes redder than Yuya's hair. It is a touching scene….
You're Looking For!
… the screen falls to reveal the Fusion Counterparts falling into darkness. Yuri grins wickedly as his eyes are whited out by a violet glow. Behind him is the shadow of an older boy, face obscured with a monstruous, inhuman smile on his face. Above him, Serena holds out her hand, desperately trying to reach her former friend. The gem on her bracelet shines like a star, cutting through the miasma that surrounds them. Behind her is the golden spirit of an older girl, trying to reach out to the figure behind Yuri as tears flow. The older teens vanish as the Fusion Counterparts' silhouettes turn to black and a large, sinister pair of draconic eyes open wide behind them.
I'll Challenge All My Limits
Crow, Kiryu, the Black Rose Witch, and Jack race in a line on the highway and call forth their dragons; Black-Feather, Infernity Void, Black Rose, and Red Daemon's.
Knowing This Could Be My Only Chance Now
Yuzu and Serena stand together striking Fusion and Pendulum summoning poses respectively. On the right side of the screen behind Yuzu is Bloom Diva, Bloom Lorin, and Prodigy Mozart. On the left side of the screen behind Serena was Cat Dancer, Panther Dancer and Lio Dancer.
To Overcome This Fate That's Come Over Me
On his D-Wheel, Yuya extends his arm outwards as Enlightenment Paladin begins to glow and evolves into a blue and golden warrior with a large sword. The swordsman hovers over Yuya with Odd Eyes Rebellion on it's right and Odd Eyes Wing on it's left.
The Ending Of This Story
Yuri stands in a dark tunnel with a monstrous grin with Starve Venom and Greedy Venom behind him. To his sides are Ruri and Rin with soulless eyes. Behind the girls are Independent Nightingale and Crystal Bell respectively.
I Will Hold It Close As I Wonder So Aimlessly
Yuto and Yugo closely race next to each other on the highway as Dark Rebellion and Clear Wing flew through the sky. Yuto slaps a card on his duel disk causing Dark Rebellion to be consumed by flames and evolve into Dark Rebellion Apocalypse. Yugo throws a card on his duel disk and reaches his hand out to the sky as Clear Wing shined and evolved into Crystal Wing. The two dragons fly at each other full force as and smash their heads against each other as Yuto and Yugo yell with glowing indigo and cyan eyes.
Into This New World
The scene changes to Yuya standing beneath a blue landscape. A pendulum swings above him, draw arcs of light across the sky. Yusho's face is shown over the center of the arcs, smiling down at his son with pride.
The Game Has Only Just Begun
Yuya reaches his hand out as the image of his father fades. He is shown to have a look of surprise on his face...
I Can See It In Your Eyes!
…which quickly turns into a triumphant smile!
(Instrumental)
The screen flashes to Reiji with D/D/D Hell Armageddon on his field sternly standing in front of the laughing Hell Kaiser with the roaring Cyber End Dragon. The scene changes to a worn out Serena and Yuzu kneeling in front of the soulless Rin and Ruri, with the silhouette of Parasite Fusioner behind them. The scene shifts again to Yuya, Yuto, Yugo, and Yuri standing across from each other with glowing eyes and spiked up hair as their dragons roared. The four dragons crash against each other causing a bright light to engulf the screen. The song ends with a shot of the Lancers on the highway in the Synchro Dimension looking up at the screen with the three Yu-boys in the center, each sharing a look of determination.
Sawatari, Masumi, and Tsukikage continued their search for Yuzu's group as explosions sounded in the distance.
"C-Can we stop...to catch our breath..." Sawatari asked between breaths.
"Fine, but we must not waste too much time." Tsukikage said as the group stopped their running.
"Wow, this puts the invasion in the Standard to shame." Sawatari bluntly said.
"Yeah, it's weird that the Obelisk Force are causing this much damage when compared to the little amount they caused during in our dimension." Masumi wondered.
"I have an explanation." Tsukikage stated.
"By all means, enlighten us." Sawatari sarcastically said, earning a smack from Masumi. "Oww!"
"Please explain, Tsukikage." Masumi kindly asked as Sawatari rubbed his head in pain.
"Knowing of the invasion, Reiji Akaba chose to make the next round of the Miami Championship a Battle Royale. He told you all that it was to test you all against the Obelisk Force in order to repel Academia's forces and to form the Lancers. This is only part of the truth." Tsukikage explained.
"Did he lie to us?! Again?!" Sawatari growled.
"I'm really not surprised. He did temporarily wipe my memories after all." Masumi rolled her eyes.
"It wasn't necessarily a lie. The main reason why he decided to make the Battle Royale a city-wide event so he could have a reason to create an Action Field that was large enough to cover the entire city. He predicted the catastrophic damages that would take place during the fight against Academia, so he made sure the battle would take place on an Action Field that way all of the damage would be reverted after the battle was over. Also, this would force the majority of the city's population to be far from Academia's assault. That's why only a handful were carded versus innocent bystanders." Tsukikage thoroughly explained.
"I don't really know if I got all of that..." Sawatari admitted as he scratched the back of his head.
"Idiot." Masumi said under her breath. "He's saying that everything Reiji did was to minimize the damages caused by the Academia."
"Reiji really is a mastermind...it's almost scary what that guy can do when he sets his mind to it." Sawatari sighed.
"We need to start moving again. Are you two ready to continue?" Tsukikage asked.
"Well, we could take a few more minutes-GAH!" Sawatari yelled as he was smacked by the dark haired girl once again.
"We're ready." Masumi answered.
"Then let's get going-"
"There's no need to be in a rush." A sinister voice spoke from behind the group, causing them to whips their heads around.
They saw an older teen wearing a black mask that covered his eyes. He had long dark hair and wore a black coat. The man also had a red Academia duel disk on his arm.
"Who the hell are you?!" Sawatari shouted.
"I am Darkness." The Academia duelist sinisterly grinned.
"So you're the guy who dueled Yuya and Yugo..." Masumi remembered in a somewhat worried tone.
"That is correct. I defeated that annoying Synchro user but his look alike got in my way. If it wasn't for him, your friend would have been carded." Darkness explained.
"If this guy beat Yugo...he has to be a strong duelist." Masumi said to her comrades.
"Eh, I don't see it. He lost to Yuya after all. If he lost to my rival then he will certainly lose to me!" Sawatari smirked.
"I'm wouldn't be so sure about that if I were you..." Masumi sighed.
"If I was a betting man, I'd say you three are off to find Yuzu Hiragi, right?" Darkness asked.
"What makes you say that?" Sawatari shot back.
"Why else wouldn't you be engaging the Obelisk Force and fighting with your other comrades." Darkness answered.
"Shit, he's got a point." Sawatari whispered to his comrades.
"My objective is to assist in the capture of Yuzu Hiragi and Serena. But personally, all I want to do is get revenge on those pesky brats that share the same face. Tell me where I can find any of them and maybe I won't turn you into a card." Darkness offered.
"We won't let you lay a finger on Yuzu!" Masumi protectively declared.
"And I will be the only one that defeats Yuya!" Sawatari shouted.
"So you're challenging me? I'm sure the Professor won't mind a handful of Lancers being carded. Besides, I could use a warm up!" Darkness grinned as he activated his duel disk with a black blade.
"You two must go. I will give you the time you need to find Yuzu." Tsukikage said but Masumi stepped forward.
"Tsukikage, you should be the one to go. You're much faster then us so you can get to her quicker without us slowing you down. If Academia found us, they may have gotten to Yuzu already so you need to go help her protect her." Masumi explained.
"...Are you sure?" Tsukikage asked.
"Don't worry, I'll totally kick this guys ass!" Sawatari shouted.
"Good luck." Tsukikage nodded before racing off at top speed.
"We won't let you get to our friends!" Masumi yelled, activating her duel disk.
"Let's get this show on the road!" Sawatari smiled as he also activated his duel disk.
"Prepare to fall into eternal darkness!" Darkness sadistically shouted.
FIELD SPELL: CROSSOVER
"DUEL!"
DARKNESS: 4000 LP vs MASUMI: 4000 LP SAWATARI: 4000 LP
"This will be your last duel! My turn! From my hand, I summon Red Eyes Wyvern!" Darkness shouted as a smaller version of his ace appeared.
Red Eyes Wyvern (1800/1600) LVL: 4
"I set two cards facedown and end my turn. Now, show me the strength you Lancers claim to have!" Darkness shouted with a sinister grin.
"You asked for it! I, the magnificent, amazing, super-strong Sawatari will-"
"My turn!" Masumi yelled, cutting the boy off.
"Eh?! What's the deal?! I was giving a super threatening introduction that would have left him shaking in his black coat!" Sawatari immaturely pouted.
"Actions speak louder then words." Masumi brushed off Sawatari's complaining before turning to her opponent. "I activate the Spell Card, Gem-Knight Fusion! I fuse Gem-Knight Garnet and Lapis! Mysterious blue stone! Crimson truth! In a whirlpool of light combine to bring forth a new dazzling radiance! Fusion Summon! Come forth! Level 6! Shinning crimson light! Gem-Knight Ruby!"
A knight with red armor and a blue cape appeared. The knight carried a staff that had a sharp blade at the top.
Gem-Knight Ruby (2500/1300) LVL: 6
"From my hand, I summon Gem-Knight Roumaline!" Masumi shouted as a yellow knight appeared.
Gem-Knight Roumaline (1600/1800) LVL: 4
"Ruby's effect activates! Once per turn, by releasing a Gem-Knight on my field, it gains ATK equal to the released monster's ATK! I release Roumaline!" Masumi yelled as her monster bursted into particles which were absorbed by the red knight.
Ruby (2500/1300)-(4100/1300)
"That's quite a powerful start, but I'm not threatened." Darkness said with a devious smirk.
"You should be! Battle! Ruby, attack Red Eyes Wyvern! Crimson Slasher!" Masumi commanded as her monster leaped forward with it's shinning crimson blade.
"Trap Activate! Red Eyes Incineration! By sending a Red Eyes Black Dragon from my hand or field to the graveyard, I can destroy a card on the field! I discard Red Eyes Black Dragon to destroy your monster!" Darkness shouted as a red blast of flames incinerated the knight.
"Grr...I set a card facedown, turn end!" Masumi angrily concluded.
"As people alway say, the best has been saved for last! My turn! From my hand, I summon Abyss Actor Curtain Raiser!"
A fiend with a red and yellow circus tent for a body appeared.
Abyss Actor Curtain Raiser (1100/1000) LVL: 4
"The spotlight is on you, Curtain Dancer! Battle! Attack Red Eyes Wyvern!" Sawatari shouted as his monster jumped high into the air. "At this moment, Curtain Dancer's effect activates! Once per either player's turn, while I have no other cards on my field, this card's ATK doubles during battle!"
Curtain Raiser (1100/1000)-(2200/1000)
The fiend fired a colorful blast of energy from it's hands at the wyvern which destroyed it.
DARKNESS: 4000-3600 LP
"Alright! That's how you do it! I'll end my turn with that!" Sawatari grinned.
Curtain Raiser (2200/1000)-(1100/1000)
"Drop the cockiness, Sawatari. We still have a long way to go." Masumi saidin an irritated tone.
"Hey, you're just mad my attack didn't get stopped like yours did!" Sawatari argued.
"Stop acting like a child!" Masumi growled.
"You children are quite amusing." Darkness laughed.
"Shut up and take your turn!" Sawatari shouted.
"Heh. I'll put you kids in your place! My turn! By sending a Red Eyes monster from my hand or field to the graveyard, I can special summon this monster from my hand! I discard Red Eyes Lightning Lord Evil Daemon! Come forth! Level 7! Red Eyes Alternative Black Dragon!" Darkness shouted as a black and red armored dragon with red eyes appeared.
Red Eyes Alternative Black Dragon (2400/2000) LVL: 7
"Trap Activate! Red Eyes Spirit! This card lets me special summon a Red Eyes monster from my graveyard! Come to my field, Level 7! Red Eyes Black Dragon!" Darkness shouted as his dark dragon with red eyes appeared beside his other dragon.
Red Eyes Black Dragon (2400/2000) LVL: 7
"Not good..." Sawatari gulped as the two dragons roared in unison.
"Battle! This is the end for you! Red Eyes Alternative Black Dragon, attack her directly!" Darkness pointed at Masumi as his dragon began to charge a red blast.
"Trap Activate-"
"Leave this to me!" Sawatari shouted as he leaped onto a platform, trying to take charge of the situation. "Hah! Action Spell, Attraction! I change the attack target to Curtain Raiser!"
"Fine! Destroy that foolish monster! Dark Alternate Flame!" Darkness shouted as his monster fired a bright crimson blast of flames at the fiend.
"Due to Curtain Raiser's effect, it's ATK will double during battle once per either player's turn since I control no other cards!"
Curtain Raiser (1100/1000)-(2200/1000)
The blast incinerated the fiend, causing a minor shockwave that knocked Sawatari off of the platform he was standing ground.
SAWATARI: 4000-3800 LP
"Looks like I saved you." Sawatari said to his teammate as he got off the ground.
"That was unnecessary." Masumi said as she crossed her arms.
"In that case, I'll attack you next! Go, Red Eyes Black Dragon! Attack that boy directly! Dark Mega Flare!" Darkness shouted as his monster fired a dark blast of fire at the panicking boy.
"E-Eh?!" Sawatari gasped.
"Trap Activate! Gem-Radiance! When an opponent declares a direct attack, I can special summon a Gem-Knight Fusion monster from my graveyard with it's effects negated! Revive, Gem-Knight Ruby!"
Gem-Knight Ruby (2500/1300) LVL: 6
"And due to my Trap's effect, you can only target the summoned monster for attacks until the end of the turn! And I wouldn't do that if I were you since Ruby has more ATK then your dragons." Masumi explained.
The knight leaped in front of Sawatari and used it's blade to cut through the flames.
"You alright?" Masumi asked the boy.
"Tch...I'm the hero of this show! You don't need to be worrying about me!" Sawatari yelled as his comrade.
"As selfish as always..." Masumi grunted.
"You two are really starting to piss me off...I set a card facedown, turn end." Darkness concluded.
"I'm ending this here and now, my turn! I activate the Spell Card, Gem-Armory! I add a Gem-Knight monster back to my hand! I add Gem-Knight Roumaline! And since I control a Gem-Knight Fusion monster, I draw a cards! Next, I summon Gem-Knight Roumaline once more!" Masumi shouted as a yellow knight appeared.
Gem-Knight Roumaline (1600/1800) LVL: 4
"I activate the Spell Card, Particle Fusion! This card lets me use monsters on my field to Fusion Summon a Gem-Knight Fusion monster! I fuse Gem-Knight Roumaline and Ruby! Gem tinged with lightning! Shinning crimson light! In a whirlpool of light, combine to bring forth a new dazzling radiance!Fusion Summon! Come forth! Level 6! Gem-Knight Paz!" Masumi shouted as a yellow armored knight with a green cape appeared.
Gem-Knight Paz (1800/1800) LVL: 6
"Particle Fusion's effect! By banishing this card, my monster gains the ATK of a Gem-Knight Fusion monster that was used as Fusion material until the end of the turn! Gem-Knight Paz gains Gem-Knight Ruby's 2500 ATK!"
Paz (1800/1800)-(4300/1800)
"Gem-Knight Paz can attack twice through it's effect. Also, when this monster destroys a monster by battle, you take damage equal to it's ATK! Meaning, if one of my two attacks connect, you lose!" Masumi confidently shouted.
"She really isn't playing around..." Sawatari gulped.
"BATTLE! Gem-Knight Paz, attack his two dragons and end this duel!" Masumi shouted as his monster leaped forward.
"Your strength is admirable, but it's nothing compared to mine! Quick Play Spell, Fusion Cancel! Your Fusion monster is returned to the Extra Deck and it's Fusion materials are summoned to your field!" Darkness smirked.
"What?!" Masumi gasped as her monster turned back into two lights that reformed into her knights.
Gem-Knight Ruby (2500/1300) LVL: 6
Gem-Knight Roumaline (1600/1800) LVL: 4
"Tch...it's not over yet...I can still destroy one of your dragons! Go, Gem-Knight Ruby! Destroy Red Eyes Black Dragon! Crimson Slasher!" Masumi exclaimed as her monster rushed forward and sliced through the dragon.
DARKNESS: 3600-3500 LP
"I set a card facedown...turn end." Masumi concluded.
"There's no need to worry! I, the magnificent Sawatari, will eradicate those who stand against me!" Sawatari declared.
"Is that so?" Darkness said as his held tilted in anticipation.
"Prepare yourself, my second act is about to begin! My turn, draw!" Sawatari shouted as he dramatically drew his card. He saw that he had drawn Big Star and his face lit up. "Alright! My ace is here! You're so going down now! With the Scale 1 Abyss Actor Devil Heel and the Scale 8 Abyss Actor Funky Comedian, I set the Pendulum Scale!"
Devil Heel 1 - 8 Funky Comedian
"With this, I can simultaneously summon monsters with levels 2 through 7! Pendulum Summon! Come to the stage, my monsters! From my Extra Deck, Abyss Actor Curtain Raiser! And from my hand, the star of the show, Abyss Actor Big Star!" Sawatari shouted as ace monster and his previously destroyed monster appeared from the portal in the sky.
Abyss Actor Curtain Raiser (1100/1000) LVL: 4
Abyss Actor Big Star (2500/1800) LVL: 7
"Big Star's effect activates! When summoned, I can add a Abyss Script Spell Card from my deck to my hand! Next, I activate the Spell Card, Abyss Script Fire Dragon's Lair! I can target an Abyss Actor monster on my field and if it destroys one of your monsters in battle, you three monsters in your Extra Deck are banished!" Sawatari explained as his ace gained blue knight armor.
"Banishing monsters from my Extra Deck?!" Darkness shouted.
"It's time to complete my star's wardrobe change! After all, what's a knight without it's trusty sword? I activate the Equip Spell, Abyss Costume Hero's Sword! By equipping this card to Big Star, my monster gains 300 ATK!" Sawatari shouted as a sword materialized in the fiend's hand.
Big Star (2500/1800)-(2800/1800)
"It's not over! Funky Comedian's Pendulum Effect activates! By sending Curtain Raiser to the Extra Deck, Big Star gains it's 1100 ATK points!" Sawatari explained as the smaller fiend bursted into particles that were absorbed into Big Star.
Big Star (2800/1800)-(3900/1800)
"Battle! Big Star, attack Red Eyes Alternative Blade Dragon! Dragon-Slaying Slash!" Sawatari commanded. The fiend leaped forwards and slashed through the center of the dragon, causing a powerful explosion that knocked Darkness back.
DARKNESS: 3500-2000 LP
"And since Big Star successfully destroyed your monster, Abyss Script Fire Dragon's Lair's effect activates! Now, three monsters from your Extra Deck! Get to it!" Sawatari confidently shouted at his opponent.
"Damn brat..." Darkness grunted as the spirits of Red Eyes Slash Dragon, Meteor Black Dragon, and Black Daemon's Dragon appeared before dissolving into particles.
"Alright! Good work, Big Star!" Sawatari jumped up and down as his ace gave the boy a thumbs up.
"Not bad..." Masumi said in a surprised tone. Not only has Sawatari clearly gotten stronger, but he has also developed a bond with his deck. But despite all of that, he still acted like a child.
"...Hehehe...you really think you have gained an edge in this duel...think again!" Darkness maliciously shouted.
"What are you on about?!" Sawatari questioned.
"Red Eyes Alternative Dragon's effect! When this card is destroyed, I can special summon a level 7 or lower Red Eyes monster from my graveyard! Rise, Red Eyes Black Dragon!" Darkness shouted as his ace returned.
Red Eyes Black Dragon (2400/2000) LVL: 7
"And since Red Eyes Black Dragon was summoned through Red Eyes Alternative Black Dragon's effect, it's ATK is doubled!"
"D-Doubled?!" Sawatari and Masumi shouted.
Red Eyes (2400/2000)-(4800/2000)
"N-No way..." Sawatari uttered in shock before shaking his head. "No...this isn't over! The hero always prevails in the end! I end my turn!"
Big Star (3900/1800)-(2800/1800)
"Hahaha! I activate the Spell Card, Pot of Greed! I draw two! I'm going to take pleasure in watching you both suffer! I activate the Spell Card, Dragon's Mirror! By banishing monsters in my graveyard, I can Fusion Summon a Dragon-type Fusion monster! I banish Red Eyes Black Alternative Dragon and Red Eyes Lightning Lord Evil Daemon!" Darkness shouted as his two monsters appeared in the fusion vortex.
"This can't be good..." Sawatari gulped.
"Dragon with Eyes of Red! Become one with the Red Eyed Embodiment of Lightning and spread your darkness! Fusion Summon! Come forth! Level 10! Fiend Dragon – Black Daemon's Dragon!" Darkness shouted as a black and red dragon with the body similar to Evil Daemon appeared with burning flames erupting from the dragons back appeared.
Fiend Dragon – Black Daemon's Dragon (3200/2500) LVL:9
"Prepare to feel my wrath! BATTLE! Black Daemon's, attack Abyss Actor Big Star! Burning Fiend Flare!" Darkness yelled as his monster fired a powerful blast of fire at the knight.
"Grr..." Sawatari grunted as his knight was consumed by the flames.
SAWATARI: 3800-3400 LP
"It's not over! Black Daemon's effect activates! When this card destroys a monster by battle, by shuffling a Red Eyes monster in my graveyard back into my deck, you take damage equal to it's ATK! The only monster currently in my graveyard is the 1800 ATK Red Eyes Wyvern, so I'll shuffle it back into my deck and you take 1800 damage! Death Blaze!"
"GRAAH!" Sawatari screamed in pain as another blast of flames sent him flying backwards.
SAWATARI: 3400-1600 LP
"Sawatari!" Masumi shouted in concern.
"You'll pay for that...!" Sawatari grunted in pain as he got up.
"There's no point in standing up. Your fate has already been decided! Red Eyes Black Dragon, attack him directly! Dark Mega Flare!" Darkness commanded as his ace fired a powerful blast of flames at the defenseless boy.
"Trap Activate! Brilliant Stand Off! During this turn, I can target a Gem-Knight Fusion monster and my opponent must attack it! I target Gem-Knight Ruby!" Masumi shouted as her monster intercepted the attack and was incinerated. The ensuing explosion hit Masumi, knocking her back.
MASUMI: 4000-1700 LP
"Tch..." Masumi clicked her tongue as she regained her composure.
"Thank you...for that..." Sawatari said, surprising the girl.
"...We're comrades, Sawatari. We need to work together to beat this guy." Masumi told the blonde boy.
"You're right...After all, what's a good show without a cast that can work together?" Sawatari said with a smile.
"That's right. Let's put this guy in his place!" Masumi smirked.
"It doesn't matter! Even if you stop bickering, you still can't come close to my power! Take your final turns before I end this duel. I set a card facedown and end my turn!" Darkness concluded.
"Our counterattack starts right now! My turn! This is it! I activate the Spell Card, Pot of Greed! I draw two! Next is the Continuous Spell, Brilliant Fusion! This card lets me Fusion Summon a Gem-Knight by using Fusion materials from my deck!" Masumi explained with a smirk.
"Using fusion materials from the deck? Interesting!" Darkness grinned.
"I'm fusing Gem-Knight Obsidia, Crysta, and Alexand! Sharp jet-black darkness! Gem with facets of day and night! Eye of Quartz! In a whirlpool of light, combine to bring forth a new dazzling radiance! Fusion Summon! Come forth! Level 10! Dazzling lady, Gem-Knight Lady Brilliant Dia!" Masumi shouted as the shinning female knight appeared.
Gem-Knight Lady Brilliant Dia (3400/2000) LVL: 10
"Due to Brilliant Fusion's effect, Lady Brilliant Dia's ATK and DEF is reduced to 0."
Lady Brilliant Dia (3400/2000)-(0/0)
"Now, Lady Brilliant Dia's effect activates! Once per turn, I can send a single Fusion material to the graveyard perform a Fusion Summon! By using Gem-Knight Roumaline as material, I can Fusion Summon this monster!" Masumi shouted as her knight swirled into the fusion vortex while a card popped out of her Extra Deck slot. "Grind Fusion! Come forth! Level 7! Gem-Knight Prism Aura!"
A knight with yellow and white armor appeared next to Lady Brilliant Dia.
Gem-Knight Prism Aura (2450/1400) LVL: 7
"Prism Aura's effect activates! Once per turn, by discarding a Gem-Knight card, a card on your field is destroyed! I discard Gem-Knight Fusion to destroy Red Eyes Black Dragon!" Masumi shouted as her monster swung it's sword, creating a yellow energy slash that flew through the air. The energy slash sliced through the dragon, causing a powerful explosion.
"Grr..." Darkness grunted.
"Masumi, up there!" Sawatari alerted his comrade, pointing out an Action Card on a platform above her.
"Right!" Masumi shouted as she quickly leaped onto the platform and grabbed an Action Card. "Brilliant Fusion's effect activates! By sending a Spell Card from my hand to the graveyard, Lady Brilliant Dia's ATK returns to normal! I discard the Action Spell, Evasion!"
Lady Brilliant Dia (0/0)-(3400/2000)
"I'm ending this duel right now! Battle! Lady Brilliant Dia, attack Fiend Dragon - Black Daemon's Dragon! Majestic Diamond Strike!" Masumi yelled as her monster lunged forward with it's thin sword pointing at the dragon.
"Trap Activate! Inferno Wall! When a Dragon-type Fusion monster would be destroyed by battle, the destruction is negated!" Darkness countered as a her monster sword clashed against a wall of flames.
DARKNESS: 2000-1800 LP
"Then, the attacking monster is destroyed!" Darkness grinned as the flames consumed Masumi's knight.
"Damn it..." Masumi grunted.
"It's not over!" Sawatari shouted as he leaped up on to another platform, grabbing an Action Card. "This is the strength of the Lancers! Action Spell, High Dive! Gem-Knight Prism Aura gains 1000 ATK until the end of the turn!"
Prism Aura (2450/1400)-(3450/1400)
"Thanks, Sawatari. Go, Prism Aura! Attack Fiend Dragon - Black Daemon's Dragon! Light Saber!" Masumi commanded as her monster slashed through the dragon, causing a powerful shockwave that knocked Darkness back.
DARKNESS: 1800-1550 LP
"I set a card facedown, turn end. He's wide open. End this, Sawatari." Masumi said to her teammate.
Prism Aura (3450/1400)-(2450/1400)
"Right! I'll end this with a spectacular final attack! My turn! With the set scale, Pendulum Summon! Come to the stage, my monsters! From my hand, Abyss Actor Sassy Rookie! And from my Extra Deck, Abyss Actor Curtain Raiser! Abyss Actor Big Star!"
Abyss Actor Sassy Rookie (1700/1000) LVL: 4
Abyss Actor Curtain Raiser (1100/1000) LVL: 4
Abyss Actor Big Star (2500/1800) LVL: 7
"Big Star's effect! I add Abyss Script Opening Ceremony to my hand and then I'll activate it! I gain 500 life points for every Abyss Actor on my field!" Sawatari shouted as fireworks shot out of the card and into the night sky.
SAWATARI: 1600-3100 LP
"Funky Comedian's Pendulum effect! By sending Curtain Raiser back to the Extra Deck, Sassy Rookie gains it's ATK!"
Sassy Rookie (1700/1000)-(2800/1000)
"Battle! Big Star, end this duel! Show Stopper Smash!" Sawatari yelled as his monster leaped high in the air. The fiend began spinning as it descended towards the dragon and then stuck it foot outwards.
"I banish Inferno Wall in my graveyard to use it's effect! By targeting a Dragon-type Fusion monster in my graveyard, the attack is negated!" Darkness countered as a wall of fire intercepted the fiend's attack.
"Grr..." Sawatari grunted in anger.
"Then, I can special summon the targeted monster! Return, Fiend Dragon - Black Daemon's Dragon!" Darkness shouted as his dragon returned with a furious roar.
Fiend Dragon – Black Daemon's Dragon (3200/2500) LVL:9
"It's not over yet!" Masumi reminded her teammate.
"Right! Go, Sassy Rookie! Attack Black Daemon's Dragon!" Sawatari commanded as his monster charged forward. "Now, Masumi!"
The Fusion user expertly leaped through several platforms and grabbed an Action Card. "Action Spell, Over Sword! Sassy Rookie's ATK is increased by 500 and it's attack can't be negated!"
Sassy Rookie (2800/1100)-(3300/1100)
"Cowards!" Darkness growled in anger.
"Do it, Sassy Rookie! Slay that dragon!" Sawatari yelled as his fiend punched through the center of the large dragon.
DARKNESS: 1550-1450 LP
"Take that! I set a card facedown, turn end!" Sawatari concluded.
Sassy Rookie (3300/1100)-(1700/1100)
"You damn weaklings make me sick with your tactics! I'll make you suffer for your cowardly dueling! MY TURN! I activate the Spell Card, Card of Demise! I can draw five cards in exchange for discarding my hand in five of my turns! Now, I activate the Spell Card, Red Eyes Fusion! This card allows me to Fusion Summon a monster that lists a Red Eyes monster as fusion material using monsters from my field, hand, or even my deck as Fusion Material!" Darkness explained with a smirk.
"This isn't good..." Sawatari gulped.
"I fuse Red Eyes Black Flare Dragon and Meteor Dragon in my deck! Fiery eyes of red! Become one with the burning dragon and ignite the fire of destruction and pure chaos! Fusion Summon! Come Forth! Level 8! Meteor Black Comet Dragon!" Darkness shouted. A dragon with red eyes and pitch black armor appeared. The dragon was consumed in flames which began to surround the battlefield.
Meteor Black Comet Dragon (3500/2000) LVL:8
"This fire should prevent you from getting anymore Action Cards!" Darkness grinned.
"Damn it..." Masumi grunted.
"HAHAHA! Meteor Black Comet Dragon's effect activates! When this card is Fusion Summoned, I can send one Red Eyes monster from my deck to the grave and inflict damage equal to half of it's ATK! I send the 2800 ATK Red Eyes Darkness Metal Dragon from my deck to the graveyard! Meaning one of you will take 1400 damage! And the one that will be taking the damage is you, brat!" Darkness pointed at Sawatari.
"M-Me?!" The panicking blonde shouted.
The dragon fired a powerful blast of flames at the teen, sending him flying backwards.
"GRAH!"
SAWATARI: 3100-1700 LP
"Now, I activate the Spell Card, Monster Reborn! Revive, Fiend Dragon - Black Daemon's Dragon!" Darkness shouted as the fusion dragon returned.
Fiend Dragon – Black Daemon's Dragon (3200/2500) LVL:9
The two fusions roared in unison, causing Masumi and Sawatari to nervously sweat.
"Game over, pests! BATTLE! Meteor Black Comet Dragon, attack Abyss Actor Sassy Rookie!" Darkness shouted with a malicious grin.
"That's 1800 damage...!" Masumi realized.
"BURNING METEOR IMPACT!" The dragon flew up in the air and created a giant ball of fire resembling a meteor and through it down towards the fiend.
"I won't be...defeated so easily...Trap Activate! Stunt Double Save!" Sawatari shouted through the pain as Big Star appeared in front of the attack. A powerful explosion ensued as Sawatari's ace was destroyed, knocking Sawatari to the ground once more.
SAWATARI: 1700-700 LP
"What the hell?! I didn't attack that monster!" Darkness shouted in confusion.
"That's because the Trap that I activated...switched the attack target...to another Abyss Actor monster on my field..." Sawatari uttered as he struggled to get up. "Not only that...but I can't don't take any damage...for the rest of the turn..."
"But that protection doesn't apply to your teammate! Go, Fiend Dragon - Black Daemon's Dragon! Attack Gem-Knight Prism Aura! BURNING FIEND FLARE!" Darkness shouted as his monster fired a dark blast that incinerated the knight.
MASUMI: 1700-950 LP
"Grr..." Masumi grunted from the shockwave of the attack.
"It's over for you! Black Daemon's effect activates! When this card destroys a monster by battle, by shuffling a Red Eyes monster in my graveyard back into my deck, you take damage equal to it's ATK! I shuffle the 2800 ATK Red Eyes Darkness Metal Dragon! DEATH BLAZE!" Darkness grinned as his monster fired a powerful blast of flames at Masumi.
"Masumi, do something!" Sawatari shouted.
"Trap Activate! Gem-Refraction! By targeting a Gem-Knight monster in my graveyard that was destroyed this turn, any battle or effect damage I would take is reduced by that monster's ATK! I target the 2450 ATK Gem-Knight Prism Aura!" Masumi explained as the spirit of her monster protected her from the flames.
MASUMI: 950-600 LP
"And then...I can draw a card each time a take damage after this card's activation...I draw one card!" Masumi weakly shouted as she drew.
"Grr...your tenacity is proving to be quite annoying...I guess you both have one more turn until you meet your inevitable demise! I set two cards facedown, turn end!" Darkness concluded.
"We can't keep at this much longer...we have to end this duel right now..." Masumi turned to her teammate.
"I'm with you...lets give this guy a show that he'll never forget!" Sawatari determinedly shouted.
"Right...I'll show you my full power right now!" Masumi declared while glaring at her opponent.
"Hurry along, I don't have all day. I won't let anyone get in the way of my assignment!" Darkness growled.
"You'll never lay your hands on Yuzu! MY TURN!" Masumi shouted as she drew. "I activate the effect of Gem-Knight Fusion in my graveyard! By banishing Gem-Knight Roumaline to add it back to my hand! Next, I activate the Spell Card, Double Spell! By discarding Gem-Knight Fusion, I can activate the effect of a Spell Card from your graveyard, treating it is my own! I choose Card of Demise! I draw five cards!"
"Impressive move, but it won't get you anywhere in the end!" Darkness sneered.
"We'll see about that! I activate the Spell Card, Fusion! I fuse Gem-Knight Sapphire, Emeral, Lazuli! Strong willed blue! Brilliant emerald of good fortune! Green stone that hides mysterious power! In a whirlpool of light combine to bring forth a new dazzling radiance! Fusion Summon! Come forth! Level 9! Supreme radiance who illuminates everything! Gem-Knight Master Dia!" Masumi shouted as her large knight with gem-like armor and a long sword appeared.
Gem-Knight Master Dia (2900/2500) LVL:9
"It's not over! I activate the Spell Card, Monster Reborn! Return, Gem-Knight Lady Brilliant Dia!"
Gem-Knight Lady Brilliant Dia (3400/2000) LVL: 10
"This it is! I activate the Spell Card, Fusion Substitute! I fuse Gem-Knight Master Dia and Lady Brilliant Dia! "Supreme radiance that illuminates everything! Dazzling brilliance that shines brightly! In a whirlpool of light, combine to bring forth a new dazzling radiance! FUSIOM SUMMON! Come forth! Level 10! Radiant ruler that shines through the darkness! Gem-Knight Queen Brilliant Dia!"
Out of the shinning light, a large female knight appeared. The knight had glimmering diamond armor and carried a large diamond sword in her right hand and a large diamond shield in her left hand. The knight had a shiny crown-shaped helmet on her head and a red cape on her back.
Gem-Knight Queen Brilliant Dia (3700/2500) LVL:10
"...Woah...!" Sawatari uttered in awe.
"Queen Brilliant Dia's effect activates! Once per turn, I can equip a Gem-Knight Fusion monster that is banished or in my graveyard! I equip Gem-Knight Master Dia! And due to Queen Brilliant Dia's effect, she ATK equal to half of the equipped monster's ATK!"
Queen Brilliant Dia (3700/2500)-(5150/2500)
"Also, Queen Brilliant Dia also gains Master Dia's effects! My monster's new effect activates! By banishing Gem-Knight Paz, this monster gains it's name and effects! Meaning, my monster can attack twice and inflict damage equal to the destroyed monster's ATK!" Masumi explained as the soul of her knight was absorbed into her giant knight.
"With that kind of power, you'll be able to wipe out Darkness life points for sure!" Sawatari grinned.
"It doesn't end there! Queen Brilliant Dia's other inherited effect activates! She gains 100 ATK for each Gem-Knight monster in my graveyard! Meaning, she gains 900 ATK!"
Queen Brilliant Dia (5150/2500)-(6050/2500)
"Over 6000 ATK...it seems I underestimated the potential of duelists from Standard..." Darkness smirked.
"This is for all of those who have fallen due to the heinous acts of Academia! BATTLE! Queen Brilliant Dia, attack Meteor Black Comet Dragon! END THIS DUEL! ROYAL DIAMOND EDGE!" Masumi shouted as her monster's sword gained a colorful glow. The queen leaped up in the air and raised her glowing sword to the sky.
"Trap Activate! Red Eyes Survival! By releasing a Red Eyes monster on my field, the battle phase if forced to end!" Darkness grinned.
"But you don't have any Red Eyes monsters on the field?!" Sawatari shouted in confusion.
"That's not true. Because Meteor Black Comet Dragon was summoned through Red Eyes Fusion, it's treated as a Red Eyes monster while on the field!" Darkness explained.
"What?!" Masumi gasped.
"I release Meteor Black Comet Dragon to end the battle phase!" Darkness declared as his dragon dissolved into particles.
"S-So close..." Masumi angrily uttered. "I...end my turn."
"Don't worry, Masumi. I won't fail this time...I will kiss your ass back to the Fusion Dimension! MY TURN!" Sawatari shouted as he drew. "With the set scale, Pendulum Summon! Come to the stage, my monsters! From my Extra Deck, Abyss Actor Curtain Raiser! Abyss Actor Big Star!"
Abyss Actor Curtain Raiser (1100/1000) LVL: 4
Abyss Actor Big Star (2500/1800) LVL: 7
"Big Star's effect! I add an Abyss Script to my hand! From my hand, I summon the tuner monster, Abyss Actor Loyal Sidekick!" Sawatari yelled as a small cloaked fiend with blue skin and a broad sword appeared.
Abyss Actor Loyal Sidekick (500/300) LVL: 1
"It's time for the true star of the show to appear! I tune my level 1 Loyal Sidekick to my level 7 Big Star!" Sawatari exclaimed with a smirk as the small fiend turned into a single green ring that flew around his ace.
"Go for it!" Masumi cheered.
"Magnificent artist famed for a thousand roles! Appear on this stage and dazzle the masses with your legendary talent! SYNCHRO SUMMON! To the center of the spotlight! Level 8! Abyss Actor Legendary Star!" Sawatari exclaimed as his brand new fiend arrived onto the fiend. The monster had a striking resemblance to Big Star, but was much more flashy with a crystal white robe that black and gold star accessories. Also, the monster was surrounded by a large spotlight.
Abyss Actor Legendary Star (3000/2200) LVL: 8
"Legendary Star's effect activates! When Synchro Summoned, I can add an Abyss Actor from my deck or graveyard to my hand!" Sawatari explained as a card popped out of his deck. "Let's do it, Legendary Star's other effect activates! By releasing up to 3 Abyss Actors on my field, cards on your field up to that amount are returned to your hand!"
The dazzling Synchro monster began to shine as the spotlight on it began expanding outwards.
"This is our victory! I release Curtain Raiser and Sassy Rookie! Therefore, your remaining facedown and your dragon are now sent back to where they came from! MAGNIFICENT STARDOM!" Sawatari exclaimed. The supernova-like light began to push back the struggling dragon, causing it to roar.
"He'll be wide open for a direct attack!" Masumi grinned.
"You really think I'll lose so easily? Think again! Trap Activate! Darkness Wing! By targeting a DARK Dragon-type monster on my field, that monster is unaffected by card effects until the end of the turn!" Darkness countered.
Sawatari's eyes widened as the light faded, revealing the menacing Fusion monster to still be on the field.
"For every move we make...he already has a counter prepared..." Sawatari uttered.
"He brushed off our strongest monsters with ease...this is the strength of Academia's elites..." Masumi said in disbelief.
"Hahaha! Have you finally realized how outmatched you are?!" Darkness sneered.
"No...I won't give up...Sakaki defeated you once...if he can defeat you...so can I!" Sawatari declared as he pointed as his opponent.
"Still got some fight left, eh?" Darkness smirked.
"This is the final act! Quick Play Spell, Abyss Script Triumphant Return! I can special summon a Abyss Actor Pendulum monster from my Extra Deck that was sent there during this turn but with it's effects negated! Rise, Abyss Actor Big Star!" Sawatari shouted as his ace returned.
Abyss Actor Big Star (2500/1800) LVL: 7
"Next, Funky Comedian's Pendulum effect activates! By sending Big Star back to the Extra Deck, Legendary Star gains 2500 ATK!"
Legendary Star (3000/2200)-(5500/2200)
"You added that Abyss Script to your hand as a back up plan...how unexpected..." Darkness said with a hint of nervousness.
"This is the climax! BATTLE! Legendary Star, attack Fiend Dragon - Black Daemon's Dragon! SHOOTING STAR SMASH!"
The Synchro monster gained a shiny white aura as it jumped high in the air and slammed downwards feet first like a shooting star.
"I underestimated you Lancers..." Darkness smirked as he looked down.
The Synchro monster's foot crashed through the fiery dragon, causing a powerful explosion that consumed the masked duelist.
DARKNESS: 1450-300 LP
"What the hell?!" Sawatari shouted.
"Darkness Wing's other effect...any damage I take from a battle involving the targeted monster is halved during this turn!" Darkness explained.
"...I failed...again..." Sawatari grunted as his fists trembled. "...I end my turn..."
Big Star (5500/2200)-(3000/2200)
"Focus, Sawatari. We still have the advantage in life points and monsters." Masumi told the boy.
"You think you truly have the advantage? HAHAHA! You haven't seen anything yet! MY TURN!" Darkness shouted as he violently drew. "I activate the Spell Card, Altar of Restoration! By banishing the top two cards of my deck, I can add a Spell Card from my graveyard to my hand! I add...Dragon's Mirror back to my hand!"
"That means...!" Sawatari gasped.
"I banish Red Eyes Darkness Metal Dragon and Meteor Black Comet Dragon to perform a Fusion Summon!" Darkness grinned as the two menacing dragons flew into the fusion vortex.
"Armored dragon plagued by darkness! Become one with the dragon covered in the flames and become the inferno of calamity! FUSION SUMMON! Come forth! Level 10! Red Eyes Dark Inferno Dragon!" Darknes cried. A dragon with glowing red eye and sharp pitch black armor with lines of lava coursing through dragons armor. The dragon had large black wings with red spikes and glowing red claws on it's hands. In the center of the dragon, their was a large source of lava which was boiling.
Red Eyes Dark Inferno Dragon (3000/2800) LVL:10
"What is that thing...?!" Masumi gasped.
"I-It's still not strong enough to defeat us!" Sawatari shouted.
"Red Eyes Dark Inferno's effect! It gains ATK equal to half of the original ATK of the level 8 or higher fusion monster that was used as material!" Darkness shouted as his dragon gained half of Meteor Black Comet Dragon's ATK.
Dark Inferno Dragon (3000/2800)-(4750/2800)
"My dragon's other effect! By banishing Fiend Dragon - Black Daemon's Dragon, this monster can attack twice this turn!" Darkness shouted with a sinister grin.
"T-Two attack...?!" Sawatari gasped.
"Prepare to fall into eternal darkness! BATTLE! Red Eyes Dark Inferno Dragon, attack Gem-Knight Queen Brilliant Dia!" Darkness commanded as his dragon flew upwards.
"But my monster has higher ATK-"
"Dark Inferno Dragon's final effect! When it attacks a monster, that monster's effects are negated!" Darkness sinisterly grinned as his dragon's eyes shined.
Queen Brilliant Dia (6050/2500)-(3700/2500)
Masumi's eyes widened in horror as she looked at the ground.
"I'm sorry, Yuzu...Yaiba...Hokuto...I failed you..." Masumi uttered in sadness.
"M-Masumi..." Sawatari said, trembling in fear.
"Sawatari...I believe in you." Masumi said, looking up and smiling at the boy as a tear rolled down her cheek.
"DEVASTATION INFERNO BURST!" Darkness screamed as his dragon fired a blast of black and red flames at the knight.
The blast incinerated Masumi's monster and consumed the fusion-user, sending her flying through the air.
MASUMI: 600-0 LP
"MASUMI!" Sawatari cried as he reached out to the as she lifelessly fell to the ground.
The blonde boy ran over to his unconscious comrade with tears in his eyes.
"N-No...this can't be happening...I can't do this alone...I'm not strong enough..." Sawatari uttered, completely dropping his cocky persona while trying to wake the dark haired girl but to no avail.
"You're next, brat! Fall into eternal darkness with your comrade! Second attack! Incinerate Abyss Actor Legendary Star! DEVASTATION INFERNO BURST!" Darkness roared as his dragon fired another powerful blast of red and black flames at the Synchro.
Legendary Star protectively stood in front of Sawatari as it was hit by the surging flames.
As Sawatari watched his monster being overtaken by the blast, all of his previous defeats flashed before his eyes.
He couldn't defeat Yuya twice, despite calling himself the boy's rival. He was utterly humiliated by Yuto. He failed to protect Roy and Hokuto by not defeating Kiryu. And he failed to protect Masumi from Darkness. The only thing he was good at was acting tough and cocky to hide his weakness.
He wasn't as strong as Yuya.
He couldn't protect anyone.
He was weak.
He was a failure.
"DIE!" Darkness screeched as the Synchro monster bursted into particles, causing the flames to head for Sawatari.
"Sawatari...I believe in you..."
Masumi's final words rang through Sawatari's mind, causing something to snap within the boy.
"I...activate the effect of Abyss Actor Backgrounder in my hand! By discarding this card, the damage is reduced to 0!" Sawatari countered at the last second, causing the flames to disperse before reaching him.
"So that's the card you added to your hand through your Synchro monster's effect, eh? I guess you have stalled out one final turn before your defeat! I set two cards facedown, turn end!" Darkness concluded.
"...Masumi believed in me...I won't fail again...I won't be weak...I WILL REVENGE HER!" Sawatari shouted with determination in his eyes as he gripped the top card of his deck. "My...TURN!"
As Sawatari violently drew, his eyes widened as he glanced at the card.
"This is..." Sawatari trailed off before glaring at his opponent. "Let's go! With the set scale, Pendulum Summon! Come forth, my monsters! From my Extra Deck, Abyss Actor Big Star! Abyss Actor Sassy Rookie! Abyss Actor Curtain Raiser!"
Abyss Actor Sassy Rookie (1700/1000) LVL: 4
Abyss Actor Curtain Raiser (1100/1000) LVL: 4
Abyss Actor Big Star (2500/1800) LVL: 7
"Big Star's effect! I add an Abyss Script to my hand!Evil Heel's Pendulum effect activates! By sending Abyss Actor Sassy Rookie to the Extra Deck, your dragon loses 1700 ATK!" Sawatari shouted as the fiend dissolved.
"Trap Activate! Red Eyes Gaze! When a Red Eyes monster is targeted by a card effect, that effect is negated and that card is destroyed!" Darkness grinned as his dragon's eyes shined, causing the Pendulum monster to burst into particles. "Now even if you use Funky Comedian's Pendulum effect to increase your Big Star's ATK, it won't be nearly enough to match my dragon! YOU'RE FINISHED, WEAKLING!"
Darkness covered Sawatari's face as he looked at the ground.
"I'll admit...I used to be weak. I relied on my father for everything I had in life. I relied on Reiji to become a stronger duelist. I imitated Sakaki's style, thinking it would make me as strong as him. But the truth is, I've learned how to grow and become stronger on my own terms with the help of my friends and my cards! I'm no longer the same person that only cared about himself...I am a Lancer! I am an Entertainment Duelist! I am the new and improved Shingo Sawatari!"
"None of that changes the outcome of this duel!" Darkness yelled.
"Heh, I guess you really are an idiot!" Sawatari smirked.
"What the hell did you just say?!" Darkness growled.
"I said...I baited you, asshole! I activate the Spell Card, Abyss Fusion!" Sawatari shouted as he slammed the card into his duel disk.
"Fusion?!" Darkness shouted in a surprised tone.
"That's right! I fuse Abyss Actor Big Star and Curtain Raiser!" Sawatari shouted as his monsters began to rise into the fusion vortex. "Star of the show! Fiend that hide behind the curtains! Merge your talents together and bring forth the writer whose scripts preach taboos and chaos! Fusion Summon! Appear, Level 8! Abyss Actor Blasphemous Playwright!"
Out of the fusion vortex, a Shakespeare-like fiend appeared. The fiend had grey skin and wore a long black coat with purple trims. The fiend wore a fancy black hat with a purple feather attached.
Abyss Actor Blasphemous Playwright (2800/2100) LVL: 8
"Alright!" Sawatari cheered, happy that he was able to perform another summoning methods. His happy expression became serious as he went from looking at his new monster to glaring at his opponent.
"Though I'm a bit impressed with your ability to perform multiple summoning methods, you still are far too weak to defeat me!" Darkness shouted.
"I wouldn't be so sure about that! Blasphemous Playwright's effect activates! When this card is fusion summoned, cards on your field are destroyed up to the amount of fusion materials that were used! Meaning, I can destroy two cards on your field!" Sawatari grinned.
"What?!"
"Say goodbye to your dragon and your facedown! Do it, Blasphemous Playwright! Phantom Alteration!"
The fiend took the purple feather off of it's hat and began waving it through the air as if it was crossing writing out on a script. The feather began to glow, causing purple energy blades to materialize and slash through the two cards.
"Grr...damn you!" Darkness cursed.
"That's not all! Blasphemous Playwright gains 300 ATK for each card that was destroyed!" Sawatari shouted as the fiend put the glowing feather back on it's hat.
Blasphemous Playwright (2800/2100)-(3400/2100)
"This is the finale!"Sawatari declared as he snapped his fingers. "BATTLE! Blasphemous Playwright, attack him directly-"
"I WILL NOT FAIL AGAIN! Red Eyes Survival's effect in the graveyard activates! When I'm attacked directly, I can banish this card to special summon a Red Eyes monster in my graveyard in ATK mode and with it's effects negated! Revive, Red Eyes Dark Inferno Dragon!" Darkness shouted as a fire erupted from the ground, revealing the dragon.
Red Eyes Dark Inferno Dragon (3000/2800) LVL:10
"Then, the summoned monster gains 500 ATK for every Red Eyes monster that was destroyed by battle or card effect during this turn!"
Dark Inferno Dragon (3000/2800)-(3500/2800)
"I won't be bested! YOU WILL FALL INTO DARKNESS!" Darkness screamed.
"...Blasphemous Playwright, attack Dark Inferno Dragon!" Sawatari commanded while pointing at the terrifying dragon, surprising the Academia elite.
"You're still attacking?!"
"Blasphemous Playwright's effect activates! Once per either player's turn, when an Abyss Actor monster battles, I can reveal Abyss Script Spell Cards in my hand to increase it's ATK by 1000 for each card! I reveal Abyss Script Romantic Terror and Blasphemous Playwright gains 1000 ATK!" Sawatari grinned, revealing the card he added to his hand through Big Star's effect.
Blasphemous Playwright (3400/2100)-(4400/2100)
"T-This can't be...n-not again..!" Darkness stuttered as he stepped back in fear.
"Time for a climatic finish! Go, Blasphemous Playwright! FINAL ACT!" Sawtari screamed as he snapped his fingers.
The fiend's eyes gained a fiery purple color as it held the eerie skull outwards. The fiend channeled it's magic into the skull, causing it to gain a dark purple glow. The glowing skull opened it's mouth, releasing a powerful wave of purple and black energy that rushed through Darkness' field. His dragon tried to fight the wave of dark energy but it was eventually consumed.
Darkness simply looked down in defeat as the rush of dark energy collided with him.
DARKNESS: 300-0 LP
WINNER: SAWATARI and MASUMI
"...I...won..." Sawatari uttered in shock as he looked at the slumped over duelist from Academia.
The boy immediately crouched down to Masumi, shaking the girl.
"Masumi! Masumi! Wake up, Masumi!" Sawatari yelled.
"...Sawa...tari...?" Masumi muttered as her eyes started to open.
"Masumi!" Sawatari shouted in relief.
"We're not...cards?" Masumi questioned, causing the blonde boy to pout.
"Hey! I thought you believed that I could win?!" Sawatari growled.
"Hehehe...I'm only kidding...I knew you could do it..." Masumi smiled.
"I didn't do it alone. There's no way I could have won without you." Sawatari admitted, surprising the dark haired girl.
"Wow, I thought your cockiness would have been through the roof after beating an elite from Academia." Masumi said, making the Pendulum user slightly blush.
"Well...it was really cool...it just sucks no one got to see it..." Sawatari sighed.
"Hey, you don't have to prove yourself to everyone all of the time. We all know how capable you are. That's why I had faith in you." Masumi said as she placed her hand on the boy's shoulder.
"Grr..."
The two teens shifted their attention to the beaten Academia duelist.
"...You have no idea...what is coming..." Darkness uttered.
"It doesn't matter what Academia throws at us! We won't lose!" Sawatari shouted.
"...Heh...Heh...Haha...Hahaha..." Darkness weakly laughed.
"What's so funny?" Masumi questioned.
"I...wasn't talking about...Academia...it's those boys...you should fear..." Darkness warned, confusing the Lancers.
"What are you on about?!" Sawatari snapped.
"...I've seen it for myself...the inner darkness that resides within them..." Darkness weakly explained.
"Are you talking about...Yuya?" Masumi fearfully asked.
"It's not just him...it's all four of them...I can sense their darkness resurfacing...it's only a matter of time before they are forever consumed by their inner darkness...leading to the end of everything..."
As Darkness spoke, his duel disk began to shine.
"In time...you will see that I was correct...and you will curse yourselves...for stopping me from doing what is necessary...for the survival of every dimension...!" Darkness weakly said as he was consumed by the light.
"Wait!" Sawatari reached out, wanting to know more but Darkness vanished in a flash of light.
Sawatari and Masumi just stood in silence for a moment before slowly turning towards each other.
"...Did he just say Yuya, Yuto, and Yugo...are going to end the world...?" Masumi uttered in horror.
Though Sawatari wasn't there since his team was already eliminated, Masumi thought about when Yuto and Yugo dueled each other. The two were screaming at each other with glowing eyes and demonic voices. Their dragons were causing real damage, almost as if the dragons were actually real. She also remembered how Yuto brutally defeated Lotten and Rudger during the Friendship Cup. She remembered when Yuto went berserk after hearing that Dennis was involved with Ruri's capture.
At the same time, Sawatari remembered watching Yuya violently defeat Kachidoki during the Miami Championships. He remembered watching Yuya snap at Reiji with glowing eyes during their duel. He remembered watching Yuya launch Frost off his D-Wheel during the Friendship Cup.
"...T-There's no way they can be capable of such a thing...right?" Sawatari nervously asked.
"...I would like to think that...but I don't know anymore..." Masumi trailed off before shaking her head. "W-We can't be thinking about this right now! We need to go help Yuzu!"
"R-Right. But we should inform Reiji about this..."
"We'll do that when we see him. Let's go!"
The two then sprinted off, with a feeling of dread in the back of their minds. But little did they know...
...they were right to be afraid.
Wow, things are really taking a turn. With this chapter complete, we will finally be heading into the battle of the counterparts. And full disclosure, the reason this took a bit longer then expected is because I was so inspired to right the yu-boy duel that I wrote most of that chapter before working on this. That chapter is about 70% finished so all I have to do now is write the one or two chapters in between. After that, we have the Reiji vs Kaiser duel which I am also looking forward to.
Thanks to BladeWriter3 for Abyss Actor Blasphemous Playwright. This duel was very challenging to write if I'm going to be completely honest. I kind of lost inspiration to write about half way through and I ended up writing the yu boy duel that is coming in a few chapters before coming back to this chapter. But I love Sawatari and Masumi so I wanted to give them a duel before focusing on the main characters for a while. We even got some really nice character development for best boi Sawatari.
Reviews:
Tachyon9: Yuya's trauma and fears are making things very hard for him. His clashing ideals will be more drawn out in the Xyz arc when he's face to face with a literal warzone. And I personally can't wait for the Reiji vs Kaiser duel.
Hell Kaiser Younes: There will be variations of the numbers and I only plan on including two of the emperors but they won't be barians, they will just be normal humans.
Aquatic Dragon: A darker variant of Odd Eyes Venom Dragon may come. Something involving Zarc is about to happen. And thanks for your kind words.
charly12: I love the Yuya and Serena duo too!
way2dumb2live: Serena has grown into one of my favorite characters. I personally love her tragic backstory and her straight forward duel style. I've had so much fun developing her into a more flexible duelist, which she learns from Yuya and becomes stronger in the process. And yes, I have played Lunalights in the past.
Bluedada: I'm glad you are liking Reira's role in the story!
Guest 01: I've always found the CCC deck very interesting and hopefully they will print it one day. And I too wish the girls got more support but they were treated horribly in the anime so I'm not really surprised.
BladeWriter3: I also found it super weird that Ray ONLY connected and helped Reira, not literally any of her counterparts. You would think the counter to Zarc powering up his counterparts would be for Ray to power up her counterparts, right? I honestly just chalk that down to Arc-V's hate for the bracelet girls. That's why I like to write Ray as more of a guiding spirit compared to what Zarc is. Instead of taking control of his counterparts, she leads them and gives them strength when necessary. Plus, there is the powers of the bracelets. Though, all of the bracelets have different powers in this AU. Yuzu's teleports as already seen. And although it's more subtle, Serena's has the effect to calm the Yu-boy's emotions. Ruri and Rin's will be expanded on later. As for Odd Eyes's evolution, or lack of one, shame on Konami for not making an evolved Pendulum Dragon.
Thank you for all of the reviews and support!
Preview: Yuzu and Sora are backed against the wall when the Obelisk Force attacks and Reira arrives just in time to assist his comrades. Meanwhile, Yuya races against the clock in order to save his friends! Will he get there in time to save his friends from the horde of soldiers and Captain Barrett? Find out next time on Yugioh Arc V Altered Destiny! The fun has just begun!
See y'all next time!