Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS: Hidden Memories

by scififan599

10 years ago, 8 children were kidnapped. One of them was Yasutake Narahiko, who today works as Morningstar, a bounty hunter in LINK VRAINS hunting criminals and hackers for companies like SOL Technologies. One day, he fights the Knights of Hanoi and encounters Playmaker, who was involved in the same incident. Follow him as he must decide whether to be Playmaker's ally, or his enemy

59. Chapter 59: Settling the Score

Responses to Reviews

Thank you to jdkeller2000, thirdegree101, TheBlazingButterfly777, LazinessRules, HunterHQ, D3lph0xL0v3r, Anonymous, Noobmaster, Ambiguous, Unknown, Hnnamed, SakushiRyu, Clearwing Yuta, Ddraig, ZarcEternal, Ethan Kironus, zodiaco zero, Black Force Demon, Summer, wolf354, FlameFireZero X, Zero Shadow-01, savagemaster1999, EclipsedSerpent, ChaosMegabot, and Guests for reviewing Chapter 58.

HunterHQ: It was only a moment back in Chapter 29, so I don't blame you for forgetting this, but Zahhak was able to watch Morningstar's and Playmaker's duel underneath Morningstar's Camouflage Dome. They have a special program that lets them see through such things.

Anonymous: Sylphid isn't a former Enforcer; she recognized Zahhak because Diana told her about him.

Ambiguous: Yes, Cassiel has her Link-5. She just hasn't had an opportunity to summon it. It's summoning conditions aren't exactly easy to fulfill with the Cyangel Deck.

SakushiRyu: You don't need to worry; Cam is specifically a non-action guy; he won't be dueling at all in Hidden Memories. His badassery will be contained entirely to the real world.

Clearwing Yuta: SOL's plan to make a high-end Ignis is no longer viable, as they need the Ignis data to make it, but now they've lost it.

EclipsedSerpent: We already have a new form of Neo Nova: Nebulous Nova. A new form of Rapid Revolutionary? We'll see.

ChaosMegabot: Yes.

Alright, let's get on to Chapter 59. This is one of the longest, most exhaustive duels I've ever written. I hope you all enjoy it!

---

Chapter 59: Settling the Score

In a black landscape, Morningstar and Zahhak stand back-to-back. The two walk away from each, Morningstar's eyes closed. His eyes then open and they both spin around, right arms raised. Their fists connect, generating a flash of light. When the light fades, Mirror LINK VRAINS is shown, with the title "Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS: Hidden Memories" overlaying it.

Yasutake, Sachi, and Masako are shown on one side of a picnic table, across from Yusaku, Takeru, and Aoi. Takeru talks animatedly and Masako laughs heartedly while the others lightly smile. At a nearby table, Cam and Emily are sitting and chatting with a standing Kusanagi, coffee and hotdogs in front of them. Back at the first table, Masako whispers in Sachi's ear while smirking, making the other girl blush as Yasutake and Aoi give her flat glares.

Kengo Dojun is standing in front of a grave that he places flowers on. Emma is off in the distance, holding her own flowers and watching with a frown. Yukaro is shown slumped over a hospital bed, his head in his hands and a wild look in his eyes. Akira is watching a monitor, his hands steepled and concern in his eyes. The monitor shows Go Onizuka strapped to a chair and performing an exercise. Hayami looks over Akira's shoulder nervously while Queen watches smugly in the background.

Takeshi and Katsumi appear standing outside an arcade, talking amicably with each other. Shizuka walks past them, listening to music on her headphones. She briefly stops and turns her head to look at them out of the corner of her eye, then turns and continues walking. At a nearby table, Kenshin, Ryoken, and Spectre are shown drinking coffee. Ryoken then smirks and raises his left hand. He snaps his fingers.

Morningstar and Playmaker appear, back-to-back, with Cyspirit Rapid Revolutionary and Decode Talker appearing behind them. They then spiral downward and are replaced by Cassiel and Soulburner, who have Cyseraph Blazing Uriel and Salamangreat Heatleo behind them. Heatleo fills the screen with orange flames, and when they dissipate, Blue Maiden and Lilith appear, Marincess Marbled Rock and Magical Musket Mastermind Ottokar behind them. They are then replaced by Galahad and Persephone, Black Luster Soldier – Soldier of Chaos and Malacoda, Netherlord of the Burning Abyss behind them.

The screen cuts to the interior of a palace, where Bohman sits cross legged, his eyes closed. His eyes open and glow. Windy is then shown, wearing a cape and eyepatch, riding Stormridership Bahamut Bomber through Mirror LINK VRAINS. Far below him, in a field of flowers, Jin Kusanagi stands with Lightning as the Ignis raises his hand, a legion of Armatos Legio Centurions and Decurions forming behind him, with Armatos Legio Magnus Dux in the center. The screen pans to show Diana and Goldie across from the Light Ignis. The duo sweeps their right arms to the side as VirtuaBeast Cryptograph Chimera appears and roars.

Techbane and Sylphid are shown back-to-back in shadows, their heads lowered. Techbane raises his head to face Merlin, while Sylphid raises hers to face Thaumiel, anger in her expression. Galahad appears riding his D-Board and plays a card. Black Luster Soldier – Soldier of Chaos appears behind him. The screen changes to Go Onizuka with Dinowrestler King T Wrextle next to him. Soldier of Chaos's blade then meets King T Wrextle's fist, making sparks fly. Galahad's and Go's faces are shown over the monsters, with Galahad shouting while Go's face remains blank.

Spectre appears and smirks, Sunavalon Dryanome growing behind him and two Sunvine Thrashers on either side. Terminus takes his place, Subterror Behemoth Fiendess and Subterror Behemoth Hydrossuary appearing behind him. The two monsters breathe blue flames and envelop the screen. When the flames dissipate, Revolver appears, Borreload Savage Dragon, Borreload Furious Dragon, and Borreload eXcharge Dragon behind him. The dragons roar and then glow with green, purple, and yellow energy.

A chain whips across the screen, before pulling back and reattaching the scythe top to its handle. Cydevil Prideful Helel swings its scythe down and connects with Cyspirit Savage Shogun's sword. Sparks fly as Morningstar and Zahhak are revealed on their D-Boards, facing each other with Morningstar's face set in a grimace. The screen changes to Cassiel, Cyseraph Guardian Michael with her, facing off against Merlin, who is supported by Witchcrafter Haine and Witchcrafter Golem Aruru.

Lilith and Terminus are then shown, back-to-back, their hands raised. They bring their hands down, and Magical Musket Sovereign Ottokar and Subterror Behemoth Fiendess appear and shoot blasts of energy and fire. The blasts impact, but when the smoke fades, Jester is shown unharmed. His mask then breaks, his face splitting into a sadistic grin as his Infinity Transformation takes hold. He raises his own arm as Life Force Trihexa forms behind him and roars.

Morningstar and Zahhak face off against each other in a field of flowers. The former raises his arm as Cyspirits Savage Shogun, Cosmic Crusader, and Martial Mameluke materialize behind him. The three Cyspirits then merge and form Cyspirit Superior Seraphim, who faces off against a massive twelve-winged figure wrapped in shadows.

Yasutake is then shown with Sachi, the two on a hill of grass and the former sleeping with his head in the latter's lap, a pine tree in the background. Sachi looks down on Yasutake's face, a loving smile on her face. Yasutake opens his eyes and both look upwards as the screen jumps to the sky and sun.

Techbane walked into the main hall and was slightly surprised to see Merlin had beat him here. The older man turned around and smiled at his protégé. "Ah, Techbane! You've returned. How did it go?"

"…I won." Techbane held out his Duel Disk. It's screen glowed green. "I have Galahad's consciousness data."

Merlin looked him in the eye and frowned. "You are still discontent with this course of action? You have mine and Jormungand's word that Galahad will be released once all of this is over."

"I know, and I trust you. It's just-." Techbane frowned. "Why did we attack them? What did Ouroboros have to gain from that? I can understand wanting to reduce the enemy's numbers, but wouldn't it have been smarter to go after someone like Morningstar or Playmaker? Don't get me wrong; Galahad is a strong duelist. But why did you have me go after him instead of any of the others?"

"…" Merlin smiled. "First off, let me just say that I'm glad to see you've been thinking about this."

Techbane tilted his head. "You're glad I'm questioning orders?"

"I'm glad you're thinking for yourself," Merlin clarified. "Critical thinking and making your own decisions is a valued skill among the Enforcers, and it is one that Jormungand wholeheartedly encourages. But to answer your questions… what we gain is an alliance between Playmaker's team and the Knights of Hanoi."

Techbane blinked. "What? You want them to work together?"

The Enforcer chuckled. "I know how that sounds but let me explain. Jormungand, and by extension Ouroboros, want this war the Light Ignis has started to go a certain way. To achieve that end, we need the Knights of Hanoi working with Playmaker and Morningstar. Revealing our presence, and our allegiance with the Light Ignis, will encourage our enemies to work together. As for why you were asked to target Galahad, it was because we believed him to be the one most likely to object to such an alliance."

The bounty hunter frowned as he thought it over and came to a realization. "Galahad is a Charisma Duelist, and someone with a strong sense of right and wrong. Considering the Knights of Hanoi's past actions, he would strongly object to working with them. And considering how they spend most of their time together, Persephone would probably follow his lead. So you had me target Galahad to get rid of a dissenting voice and encourage Persephone to agree to it?"

Merlin smiled proudly. "Exactly. In truth, I had hoped to take Cassiel out of the conflict…" And obtain her Link-5 monster, he thought. Techbane didn't know the importance of the three archetypes that the Silver Ignis made, and Jormungand wanted it to stay that way. At least until the first stage of the Final Ascension Plan was complete. "…But she was stronger than I anticipated. Our duel ended in a draw. But that hiccup aside, we achieved everything we needed to."

"…Why though?" Techbane questioned. "Why does Jormungand want the Hanoi and Playmaker to work together?"

"…" Merlin frowned. "I can't tell you all of the reasons right now, but what I can say is that Jormungand wants all of our enemies in one place. They are much easier to fight against when they're together instead of spread out." Techbane nodded. He could understand that logic. "As for the remaining reasons, I'm afraid you'll just have to have faith that Jormungand knows what he's doing." The older man smiled. "Do not worry; so long as you perform the task given to you, you will be rewarded handsomely."

Techbane frowned but nodded. That was what mattered most, after all. That he receive payment to help his grandfather. And right now, Ouroboros was his best option to do so.

---

Persephone leapt off her D-Board and landed on the island. Blue Maiden, Ghost Girl, Lilith, Soulburner, and Revolver were already waiting for her. She looked around and frowned. "Is everyone alright?"

"We're fine," Blue Maiden assured her.

"It was just Bit and Boot," Flame said. "Even if they've gotten stronger, they're still no match for us."

Lilith frowned. "But why did they attack us in the first place?"

"I would say the Light Ignis wanted to eliminate us," Revolver answered. "But a force that size and strength wouldn't be nearly enough."

"So what was this attack?" Ghost Girl wondered. "A distraction?"

"If it was," Soulburner spoke up, "then what were they distracting us from?"

They all frowned in thought before Aqua looked around. "We're still missing a few; Cassiel, Morningstar, and Cypher aren't here."

"Neither are Playmaker, Ai, or Galahad," Flame noticed. "Perhaps they're still dealing with their opponents?"

Persephone opened her mouth, but before she could say anything, three shapes dropped down.

Everyone turned as Cassiel, Morningstar, and Playmaker landed among them. "There you are!" Soulburner said in relief.

"We were worried about you," Blue Maiden said, her eyes flitting among the three.

Persephone frowned. "Have any of you seen Galahad? He hasn't gotten back yet."

The three all frowned and turned to each other. Their lack of response twisted Persephone's stomach. "Playmaker," she said slowly. "Where's Galahad?"

Cassiel, Morningstar, and Playmaker had a silent conversation among themselves before Playmaker stepped forward. "Everyone. There's something you need to know."

Playmaker told them about Techbane attacking and defeating Galahad before taking his consciousness data.

"Galahad," Persephone whimpered, taking a step back and looking down at the ground. Blue Maiden and Cassiel frowned with sympathy and approached her from either side, placing their hands on her shoulders.

"Are you going to be okay, Persephone?" Aqua asked.

Persephone's eyes wavered before she stamped down on her emotions. "I… I will be for now. We don't have time for me to fall apart." She wanted to cry. She wanted to log out, find Takeshi, and hold him tight. But she couldn't right now. At the moment, she needed to stay focused.

"Techbane wasn't the only one who appeared," Cassiel said, drawing everyone's eyes. "There was another: an older man who called himself Merlin. He said he was an Enforcer of Ouroboros."

Everyone except Morningstar and Playmaker gasped. "What?" Flame said.

"An Enforcer?" Lilith repeated.

Revolver's eyes narrowed. "So he is an ally of Jester and Zahhak. But if Ouroboros attacked us alongside Bit and Boot, then that would mean-."

"Yes," Cassiel nodded. "Merlin confirmed it; Ouroboros and Lightning have formed an alliance."

"But why?" Soulburner asked. "Lightning wants to dominate humans! Ouroboros is composed of humans, aren't they?"

"We haven't seen any signs that they're AI," Morningstar confirmed.

"Merlin didn't say why they would ally with Lightning," Cassiel said. "But… that's not all he said." She turned to look at Lilith, who raised an eyebrow in response.

"What? What is it?"

"…Merlin said that Thaumiel was an Enforcer too."

Lilith's and Revolver's eyes widened. "But if Thaumiel is an Enforcer," Ai said nervously, "wouldn't that mean-?"

"That Ouroboros was behind the Breaking of Osaka," Cypher finished solemnly. "It would appear so, yes."

Soulburner grit his teeth. "Damn it. This fight was already difficult to begin with. Now we have to worry about Ouroboros and Thaumiel? How are we supposed to match that?"

"…By joining forces."

Everyone turned to look at Revolver and the serious look in his eyes. "I had considered the Light Ignis to be the greatest threat to humanity; I still do. But Ouroboros is something that even the Knights of Hanoi know little about. We don't know their motivations or how widespread they are. But what we do know is how strong Zahhak is, and how dangerous Thaumiel is." His neutral frown turned into a scowl. "Be honest, everyone: Do any of you believe you can defeat these people on your own, on top of the Light Ignis?"

…

They all turned to look at each other, and they all saw the uncertain looks in their eyes. Zahhak had made his presence known by defeating Morningstar, and they all knew that he was their second strongest duelist, right after Playmaker. And yet Zahhak had defeated him and had done so in a manner that suggested he had been holding back. And on top of that, there was Jester, who could block Hurricane Heavensgate and Storm Access. And now Merlin, Techbane, and Thaumiel, alongside Bohman and Lightning… Revolver was right; Ouroboros wasn't an enemy they were confident they could defeat on their own.

Soulburner growled and glared at Revolver. "Fine. You've made your point. But do you actually have a plan to defeat Lightning and Ouroboros?"

"He's right," Lilith agreed as she crossed her arms. "I don't have a problem working with you; hell, knowing that Thaumiel is with Ouroboros is making me even more motivated to fight. But we'll need a concrete plan to deal with them. We can't just hope that working together will be enough."

Revolver nodded in agreement. "I do, in fact, have a plan. I had intended to show all of you this before we were attacked. Follow me." Revolver snapped his fingers and opened a portal. He turned and walked through it, followed by Playmaker, Morningstar, and Cassiel. Lilith, Ghost Girl, and Blue Maiden followed them, while Soulburner and Persephone reluctantly trailed them.

None of them noticed a certain duo chase after them through the closing gate.

The portal opened and everyone walked out into a blinding sandstorm. "Where are we?" Ai wondered as he shielded his eyes.

Morningstar looked around and frowned. Something about this place felt… familiar. "Is this…?"

"It is," Revolver confirmed. He stopped in his tracks, everyone else stopping behind him. They looked as the sand fell away, revealing a single structure supported by numerous cables.

"Is that-?"

"This is… the Tower of Hanoi!" Playmaker exclaimed.

Lilith frowned. "Which makes this place the previous LINK VRAINS." Sure enough, they could all see ruined buildings in the background.

"How is it still around?" Soulburner wondered. "Shouldn't it have been deleted?"

"Perhaps SOL saw no reason to," Flame suggested.

Blue Maiden frowned at Revolver. "Why did you bring us here?"

"Don't tell me you're planning to bring back the Tower of Hanoi?" Ai asked, only half joking.

"That is what I'm saying." Everyone turned to stare at Revolver.

"Seriously?" Ghost Girl asked.

"I'm serious," Revolver confirmed. "In order to find the Light Ignis, and by extension Ouroboros, I'll restart the Tower of Hanoi."

"…I see." Cypher nodded. "You're going to modify the Tower's systems. If you do that, it could emit a scan program instead of releasing high density data."

"Exactly," Revolver said. "With a scan program that powerful, we'll be able to find the Light Ignis's location. No matter where it's hiding in the network."

Persephone frowned. "Is that really possible?"

"The Tower of Hanoi was built to emit a signal that would reach across the entire world," Ghost Girl said. "Its systems should be capable of a scan like that."

"But you would need a high-level programmer to modify it like that," Morningstar said. "And since you would be using it to find the Light Ignis, then you would need someone who could use and detect Ignis algorithms."

Cassiel's eyes widened. "Blood Shepherd! This is why you tried to recruit him?"

"It is," Revolver answered. "But unfortunately, Blood Shepherd was erased."

Lilith frowned as she looked up at the Tower. "Revolver, I think I speak for everyone when I say we want to defeat Lightning. But restarting the Tower of Hanoi, after what happened last time…"

"Lilith is right," Persephone said with a nod. "Even if Galahad would have been willing to accept an alliance, he wouldn't have agreed to this."

Blue Maiden nodded in agreement. "The Tower of Hanoi can be a powerful weapon. Revolver, how do we know you won't betray us?"

"You haven't forgotten what you did to us, have you?" Ghost Girl asked, her expression carefully neutral.

"You don't need to worry about me betraying you," Revolver assured her. He held up his hand, materializing a polyhedron with a side missing.

"What's that?" Playmaker asked.

"This will be the main program that'll reactivate the Tower of Hanoi," Revolver answered. "We'll work together to build it. In other words, the Hanoi are only a part of the plan. You can stop this plan whenever you want."

"I see…" Ghost Girl frowned and looked among the group. Counting herself, she believed the best programmers here were Playmaker and Morningstar, though she didn't know enough about Lilith's or Persephone's skills to comment on them. Adding in Cam and Playmaker's friend on the outside, along with the four Ignis they were working with, they could modify the Tower.

The eight humans and four Ignis looked among themselves before sharing a nod, though Soulburner's and Persephone's were far more reluctant.

"Fine," Playmaker said. "We believe in different futures. But by working together on this plan, we may find a new future."

"I'll remember that," Revolver promised.

Morningstar frowned. He had to admit that he shared Soulburner's reservations with working alongside Revolver, but at the moment, this was their best chance to defeat Lightning and Ouroboros.

His attention, and everyone else's, was drawn by a voice behind a nearby rock. They all turned to look, only for Revolver to hold up a hand and walk towards the rock. Now that he was paying attention, Morningstar could pick up the words.

"We'll get a big bonus-!"

"Sorry, but I can't let you leave."

Frog and Pigeon leaned out from behind the rock, just in time for Revolver to zap them with a blue beam. When the light faded, the two reporters were trapped in a small sphere.

"You're staying with me for a while," Revolver said with a glower at the two. The two panicked on hearing that.

Cassiel frowned. "Is that alright?" she asked the others. "Keeping those two captive?"

Persephone frowned as well. "I definitely don't agree with it, but after everything that's been said, we can't let them go."

"Agreed," Playmaker said. Blue Maiden, Cassiel, and Soulburner all looked like they wanted to argue, but they decided to stay silent.

The nine duelists left the old LINK VRAINS through the gate and ended up back on the island. "I'm going to find Galahad in the real world," Persephone said, the strength that had been sustaining her starting to wane. She turned to Revolver. "I don't trust you, and I know Galahad wouldn't either. But Ouroboros has made this personal twice over now. If it means saving Galahad, then I'll work with you." She turned away before Revolver could respond and logged out.

Lilith pursed her lips. "I need to talk to Tagoma," she said. "If Thaumiel's part of Ouroboros, then I need to get as much training in as I can." She smiled lopsidedly at the others. "I'll do what I can to help with the Tower, but I don't think I'll be able to contribute as much as the rest of you. Just be sure to give me a call when you're ready."

Morningstar and Playmaker nodded to her. Lilith then logged out, leaving behind seven others.

"Does Zaizen know about Ouroboros?" Morningstar asked Blue Maiden. Since everyone here knew her identity, he saw no reason to pretend.

Blue Maiden shook her head. "I haven't spoken to my brother since Aqua and I teamed up. I know that he was looking into Jester and Zahhak, and he told me and Ghost Girl about Thaumiel. But I don't think he knows about Ouroboros as a whole."

"You should tell him," Playmaker said. "Techbane was SOL's bounty hunter before he joined Ouroboros. Zaizen might be able to use him as a lead to find and identify Ouroboros's other members."

Blue Maiden frowned but nodded. "Alright, I'll tell him."

"But you shouldn't get your hopes up," Aqua warned. "This 'Ouroboros' group has covered their tracks exceedingly well; it wouldn't surprise me if Zaizen didn't find anything."

"Even if he can't, we should still try," Ai insisted. "If we know who they are in real life, we can try and find ways to permanently stop them."

"That's not something I object to," Ghost Girl said as she stretched her arms over her head, "but at the same time, we should keep our priorities in mind; Lightning first, then Ouroboros."

"Agreed," Cypher said.

"We'll see you all later," Blue Maiden said. The others nodded goodbye as she and Ghost Girl logged out.

"We should head back too," Ai said. Playmaker nodded and reached for his Duel Disk-.

"Wait."

The four remaining humans and three Ignis turned to Revolver. "There is something I must discuss with Morningstar," he said.

The former bounty hunter raised an eyebrow. "With me?" Revolver nodded. "I don't mind, but anything you have to say to me can be said in front of Cassiel."

"And us!" Soulburner interceded. "Playmaker and I aren't leaving Cassiel and Morningstar alone with you!"

"Do you want us to stay, Morningstar?" Playmaker asked. The former bounty hunter glanced at Revolver, who frowned but ultimately shrugged.

"Very well. The rest of you can stay as well. But Morningstar? Could you put up your Camouflage Dome?"

Said duelist raised his eyebrow again but did as Revolver asked and activated said program. The five duelists were encased inside a transparent dome, hidden from the rest of LINK VRAINS. But not hidden from Cam and Kusanagi, both of whom watched from Cafés Junpei and Nagi.

"What is it you want, Revolver?" Morningstar asked. "Was there something else the Tower needs?"

"No. This isn't about the Tower." Revolver's lips dipped into a frown. "It's about Ouroboros. Or rather, a particular member of theirs."

Morningstar's eyes narrowed. "Zahhak." Images of the man in black and red armor filled his mind. The man who had defeated him. Playmaker had done so before, and Blood Shepherd and Ghost Girl had outsmarted him before. But none of them had done so as easily as Zahhak had defeated him.

"Can you keep up with me?"

He hadn't had any nightmares since his duel with Playmaker. The hacker had helped him regain his confidence. And yet every time he thought of challenging Zahhak, he couldn't deny the slight tremor that ran through his hands. The small acceleration of his heartbeat. And the constant question that entered his mind.

"Can you keep up with me?"

"Among the Enforcers, Zahhak is likely the strongest," Revolver said. "But we don't know how strong he really is; all we know is that he is strong enough to defeat you while barely trying."

"We know that already," Cassiel said sharply, her narrowed eyes making clear her opinion of Revolver's words. "Why are you bringing this up?"

"Because Morningstar is Ouroboros's primary target." The other four humans' eyes widened at Revolver's statement. "Think about it: Bohman, Blood Shepherd, Onizuka; they all prioritized Playmaker over the rest of you. But Jester and Zahhak? Jester made his presence known to fight you. You were the one Zahhak challenged." The Knight of Hanoi's eyes narrowed. "I am uncertain as to why, but Ouroboros wants something from you."

"It's obvious, isn't it?" Cypher asked. "It's moi. I'm the Silver Ignis, second strongest to Goldie. Who wouldn't want me?"

"It might be because of Cypher," Cassiel said softly. "But I think there's more." She frowned. "When I challenged him, he demanded we fight for my Link-5."

"And when I dueled Jester," Morningstar remembered, "he said he wanted the Cyspirits' data."

"Hey, don't ignore me! That's not cool!"

"But why would Ouroboros want your Decks?" Ai wondered.

"Why they want them is irrelevant," Revolver said. "They won't have them. But only if you two are strong enough." His eyes narrowed. "Zahhak will come after you again, Morningstar. From what we saw, Jester attacked you for his own amusement. But Zahhak wanted to face you. And he'll come after you again."

"I know," Morningstar said. "And what does that have to do with you?"

"Ouroboros has allied with the Light Ignis. We will be fighting them as well once we find it. And if Zahhak has his way, he will go after you." Revolver's eyes narrowed. "And he will win. Because you aren't strong enough."

Morningstar narrowed his eyes. "Hey, don't insult my partner!" Cypher objected. "Yes, the Cydemons are strong, but the Cyspirits do have a good chance to beat them!"

"It is not just the strength of the Deck, but the will of the duelist that matters. And Zahhak's will far surpasses yours. Which is why…"

Revolver raised his Duel Disk. The others' eyes widened. "You want to duel me?" Morningstar asked in surprise.

"The data we have on Zahhak suggests he duels using sheer overwhelming power," Revolver said. "Much like I do. If you can handle me, then you'll be better prepared for facing him."

"Hold on!" Soulburner stepped forward angrily. "You'll duel Morningstar seriously, but not me?!"

Revolver's gaze never left Morningstar. "Morningstar needs this. You did not."

"What?!"

"Soulburner." The fire duelist turned as Playmaker placed a hand on his shoulder. The hacker guided his friend away to the far side of the Camouflage Dome.

"Are you okay?" Playmaker asked in concern.

"Of course I'm not!" Soulburner exclaimed. "After that farce of a duel I had with him, and now he's challenging Morningstar? Is he not taking me seriously?"

"Are you angry at Morningstar?"

Soulburner blinked at the question before shaking his head. "Of course not; he's a friend. I wouldn't be mad at him over a duel!"

"So you're angry at Revolver for insulting you?" Ai asked.

"Yes! Of course I am!"

"In that case, I have a question." The other three looked down at Flame. "Soulburner: why did Revolver invite you?"

"Huh?" Soulburner looked at his partner in confusion. "Because he wanted to talk to me."

"He was searching for an excellent programmer," Flame reminded him. "Your programming skills suck."

Soulburner winced at that. "That's true, but…"

"Revolver only needed to invite Playmaker and Morningstar, and maybe Ghost Girl and Lilith. Even if he wanted mine or Aqua's help, he could've discussed it with Playmaker and then gradually gotten us involved. He doesn't need you."

"That's not true!" Soulburner exclaimed. "I'm part of this team!"

"No, Revolver definitely doesn't need you." Flame shook his head. "Revolver knew you'd be angry with him, so that would be a problem."

Soulburner frowned. "When you put it that way, you're right." Ai and Playmaker shared a glance.

"He knew that'd happen, but he still invited you. Why?"

"Well… Why?"

"Maybe he wanted to apologize to you."

Soulburner gasped and thought back to his duel with Revolver. How Revolver ended his turn without doing anything. "That's why he dueled like that?"

"It is." He turned to Playmaker's sympathetic look. "He knew you were hurting, so he wanted you to take your anger out on him." The hacker turned to look at Morningstar and Cassiel, who were watching their friends with concern. "It's the same reason he asked to duel Morningstar; while the rest of us might duel Zahhak, there is little doubt that he will target Morningstar. Revolver wants to prepare Morningstar for that."

"…So this is his way of apologizing to Morningstar, too?" Soulburner asked.

"It would seem that way," Ai agreed.

Flame sighed. "Humans never seem to say what they are really feeling. Am I wrong in thinking that?"

"No," Soulburner replied with a shake of his head.

"Yeah; Morningstar and Cassiel are proof of that," Ai said cheekily.

Soulburner's lip twitched. "You two seem to understand humans better than me."

"It feels nice to hear that," Flame responded.

The two duelists walked back to the group. "Are you alright, Soulburner?" Cassiel asked.

The fire duelist frowned but nodded. "I am now."

"Are you sure?" Morningstar asked. "Because if you are uncomfortable with this, then I won't go through with it."

Soulburner smiled at that. "Yes, I'm sure. Go ahead." He turned to Revolver. "And besides, this might give me some hints to use against you when we duel!"

Revolver's lip twitched. "If that is what you wish to believe, then so be it. Then do you accept my challenge, Morningstar?"

The former bounty hunter turned to him. He allowed a small smile to cross his face. "I have to admit; ever since our run-in before the Tower, I've been wanting to have a rematch. This will do."

"Then let me set the stage!" Revolver raised his right hand, and in a wave of green, the world changed. The others gasped and look around as they found themselves surrounded by walls made of dark brown wood. The floor was made of stone and covered in wooden pews. Stained glass windows lined the walls. On one end of the building, behind Revolver, was a door with a crucifix hanging over it. On the other end, behind Morningstar, was a stone altar with a cross, a goblet, and a tray on it. A massive stained-glass window sat behind the altar. It depicted a woman in blue robes, with light shining around her.

"This is…" Ai said.

"A church?" Soulburner said in surprise.

"Why would Revolver bring us here?" Flame asked.

"Morningstar," Cassiel whispered. The others turned to the former bounty hunter, who had stiffened as he looked around.

"This," he breathed. "How did you know about this place?"

"Terminus and I overheard your conversation with Spectre. When you told him about your past." Revolver's eyes narrowed. "And since we knew your name, it was a simple matter to look at churches in Den City and find the names of their priests."

Playmaker widened. "This is the church Father Narahiko preached at," he realized. "This is where Morningstar was raised."

"…It's more than that." Playmaker and Soulburner turned to Cassiel. "This is where Morningstar was born."

The former bounty hunter remembered the painting of Lucifer's fall from heaven in the priest's office. He remembered learning about how the devil brought down justice upon sinners. "Why would you bring us here?" Morningstar asked sharply.

In the back room, Cam grit his teeth. What was Revolver doing? Was he trying to psychologically pressure Yasu?

"To remind you of where you came from," Revolver said. "And to see how far you've come from there."

"…Very well." Morningstar planted his feet in front of the altar. Cassiel, Playmaker, and Soulburner moved to the sides next to the windows. Revolver planted his own feet at the beginning of the aisle. Both duelists raised their Duel Disks.

"Duel!"

Morningstar: 4000 LP

Revolver: 4000 LP

"I'll take the first turn!" Revolver declared. "I summon Gateway Dragon!" A thin golden dragon with a golden gate appeared.

Gateway Dragon ATK 1600 DEF 1400 LVL: 4

"Gateway Dragon's effect activates! Once per turn, I can Special Summon a Level 4 or lower Dragon monster from my hand. Come, Rokket Synchron!" The gate opened and released a small blue mechanical dragon with green holographic wings in Attack Position.

Rokket Synchron ATK 300 DEF 0 LVL: 1

Playmaker, Cassiel, and Soulburner gasped. "Rokket Synchron?" Ai wondered. "Is he Synchro Summoning?"

"No," Playmaker said. "His Synchro Monster benefits from having a Link Monster in the Graveyard. He doesn't have one, so a Synchro Summon is unlikely."

Revolver raised his hand. "Appear, the future circuit that lights up my path! The summoning conditions is one Level 4 or lower Dragon monster. I set Rokket Synchron in the Link Marker!" The Tuner monster entered the left arrow. "Link Summon! Appear! Link-1! Striker Dragon!" A light blue mechanical dragon with light green holographic wings emerged from the portal at the right Extra Monster Zone.

Striker Dragon ATK 1000 LINK-1 ←

"Striker Dragon's effect activates! When it is Link Summoned, I can add Boot Sector Launch from my Deck to my hand."

"I see," Playmaker said. "This monster was just to bring his Field Spell Card to him."

"But at least he got rid of his Tuner monster," Ai pointed out.

"I activate the Field Spell Card: Boot Sector Launch! While it is on the field, all 'Rokket' monsters gain 300 attack and defense points. I activate Boot Sector Launch's effect! Once per turn, I can Special Summon up to two 'Rokket' monsters with different names from my hand in Defense Position. Come, Autorokket Dragon and Magnarokket Dragon!" A light brown metal dragon with a rocket attached to its head appeared, along with a blue metal dragon with a laser on its head.

Autorokket Dragon ATK 1600 DEF 1000 LVL: 3

Magnarokket Dragon ATK 1800 DEF 1200 LVL: 4

"Boot Sector's Launch's effect! All 'Rokket' monsters gain 300 attack and defense points!"

Autorokket Dragon ATK 1600→1900 DEF 1000→1300

Magnarokket Dragon ATK 1800→2100 DEF 1200→1500

"Since a Dark Dragon monster was Special Summoned to my field, I can Special Summon this monster. Come, Noctovision Dragon!" A larger metal dragon appeared in Defense Position. This one was colored dark green and had a much thinner body with green holographic wings.

Noctovision Dragon ATK 0 DEF 2800 LVL: 7

"Striker Dragon's effect activates! Once per turn, I can destroy a face-up monster I control and then add a 'Rokket' monster from my Graveyard to my hand. I destroy Autorokket Dragon to add Rokket Synchron to my hand."

"Ah! It's back!" Ai screamed.

"I figured there was a reason he was willing to use a Tuner monster to Link Summon," Cypher said.

Revolver raised his hand again. "Appear, the future circuit that lights up my path! The summoning conditions are three or more Effect Monsters. I set Gateway Dragon, Magnarokket Dragon, Noctovision Dragon, and Striker Dragon in the Link Markers!" His monsters entered the left, bottom-left, bottom-right, and right arrows. "My gale that slices open the closed world!" Inside an underground hangar, lights turn on, illuminating a massive red and silver mechanical dragon with a gun cylinder in its chest and green holographic wings. "Link Summon! Appear! Link-4! Borreload Dragon!" The dragon shot out of the hangar and portal and roared from the right Extra Monster Zone.

Borreload Dragon ATK 3000 LINK-4 ←↙↘→

Morningstar narrowed his eyes. "Revolver's ace monster," he said.

"And on the first turn too," Cypher said, matching his partner's scowl. "He's taking this really seriously."

"Since Noctovision Dragon was sent to the Graveyard as Link Material, I can draw a card!" Revolver drew. "I end my turn. During the End Phase, as Autorokket Dragon was destroyed and sent to the Graveyard this turn, I can Special Summon a new 'Rokket' monster from my Deck. Come, Magnarokket Dragon!" Another metal blue dragon appeared in Defense Position.

Magnarokket Dragon ATK 1800→2100 DEF 1200→1500 LVL: 4

"It is your turn now, Morningstar," Revolver said. "Do not think to hold back! If you wish to defeat Zahhak, you must first defeat me!"

The former bounty hunter narrowed his eyes. "Magnarokket Dragon can send a monster from the field to the Graveyard if it is targeted by a Link Monster's effect."

"And Borreload Dragon has an effect that can target it and be activated during our turn," Cypher analyzed. "He has no Set cards, so we don't have to worry about a potential Mirror Force or Magic Cylinder."

"That's true. So let's take advantage of this! My turn! Draw! Since you control a monster and I do not, I can Special Summon Cyspirit Swordsman!" A skeleton in blue armor wielding futuristic swords appeared in Attack Position.

Cyspirit Swordsman ATK 1200 DEF 900 LVL: 3

"Swordsman's effect activates! When it is Special Summoned by its effect, I can add a 'Cyspirit' monster from my Deck to my hand. I add Cyspirit Kid to my hand, and then Normal Summon it!" A dwarf skeleton in a t-shirt appeared.

Cyspirit Kid ATK DEF 200 LVL: 1

"Appear, the circuit between light and darkness! The summoning condition is one 'Cyspirit' monster. I set Kid in the Link Marker!" Kid entered the bottom arrow. "Link Summon! Appear! Link-1! Cyspirit Cacophonic Caller!" A skeleton in a business suit holding a cellphone and handheld radio emerged from the portal at the Extra Monster Zone.

Cyspirit Cacophonic Caller ATK 500 LINK-1 ↓

"Kid's effect activates! When it is used to Link Summon a 'Cyspirit' monster, I can target and destroy one of your face-up cards. I'll destroy Magnarokket Dragon!"

Revolver narrowed his eyes. "I see. Magnarokket Dragon's effect can only be activated when it is targeted by a Link Monster. So you intend to destroy it with an Effect Monster."

"Smart move," Flame said.

"But I anticipated that!" Revolver revealed. "Borreload Dragon's effect activates! Once per turn, I can target a monster and reduce its attack and defense points by 500. I target Magnarokket Dragon! At this point, Magnarokket Dragon's effect activates! Since it was targeted by a Link Monster's effect, it is destroyed!" Magnarokket Dragon disintegrated and then its remains turned into a blue orb that entered the cylinder embedded in Borreload Dragon's chest. "I can then send a monster on the field to the Graveyard. I send Cacophonic Caller to the Graveyard!" A gun barrel extended from Borreload Dragon's mouth. It fired a large blue bullet at Cacophonic Caller, making the suit-wearing skeleton explode.

Morningstar grimaced. "Cacophonic Caller can Special Summon a 'Cyspirit' monster from the Deck," Playmaker remembered. "It is a cornerstone of the 'Cyspirit' strategy."

"So Revolver not only invalidated Kid's effect, but also slowed Morningstar down," Ai said.

"But not for long," Cassiel said confidently.

"I activate the Spell Card: Cyspirit Emblem!" Morningstar declared. "By sending a 'Cyspirit' monster from my Deck to the Graveyard, I can Special Summon another 'Cyspirit' monster with the same Level from my Deck. I send Cyspirit Wanderer to the Graveyard to Special Summon Cyspirit Prisoner!" A skeleton in a prisoner's jumpsuit appeared in Attack Position.

Cyspirit Prisoner ATK 1600 DEF 2100 LVL: 5

"Appear again, the circuit between light and darkness! The summoning conditions are two 'Cyspirit' monsters. I set Prisoner and Swordsman in the Link Markers!" His monsters entered the bottom-left and bottom-right Link Markers. "Link Summon! Appear! Link-2! Cyspirit Jubilant Jester!" A metal skeleton in a black and gold medieval jester's outfit emerged from the portal and spun a staff from the Extra Monster Zone.

Cyspirit Jubilant Jester ATK 1800 LINK-2 ↙↘

"Prisoner's effect activates! When it is used to Link Summon a 'Cyspirit' monster, I can add a 'Cyspirit' card from my Deck to my hand." Morningstar took a card and then played it. "I activate the Field Spell Card: Cyspirit Mausoleum!" The card showed a vast cavern, filled with small platforms holding up silver skeletons. In the background, an edifice of Cyspirit Superior Seraphim raised its staff to the sky. "So long as Cyspirit Mausoleum is in play, my linked 'Cyspirit' monsters are unaffected by your monster effects, and control of my 'Cyspirit' monsters cannot switch!"

Revolver's eyes narrowed. "That's an impressive card," Ai said approvingly.

"It's more than that," Playmaker said, thinking fast and reaching a realization. "That card was made to counter the Cydemons."

"Huh? What do you mean?"

It was Cassiel who answered. "The Cydemons' strategy focuses on punishing linking. When Morningstar dueled Zahhak, he used a Link Monster to keep Morningstar's linked monsters from attacking."

"But with that Field Spell, that strategy won't work," Soulburner realized.

"It does more than that," Playmaker said. "Borreload Dragon can take control of a monster it attacks. But Cyspirit Mausoleum prevents Morningstar's monsters from switching control."

"So Borreload Dragon's been shut down!" Ai said in delight.

"Hmm," Cypher said smugly, having heard all of their comments. "It seems my latest card go the desired reaction. This is the greatest 'Cyspirit' Field Spell, the one made to counter the Cydemons! Be honored, Revolver! You're the first one to face it!" Revolver showed no outward reaction to Cypher's taunting.

"I activate the effect of Cyspirit Wanderer in my Graveyard!" Morningstar said. "By shuffling it into my Deck, I can Special Summon a 'Cyspirit' Link Monster from my Graveyard. Resurrect, Cacophonic Caller!" The suit-wearing skeleton reappeared at Jubilant Jester's bottom-left Link Marker.

Cyspirit Cacophonic Caller ATK 500 LINK-1 ↓

"Jubilant Jester's effect! When it points to at least one monster, all 'Cyspirit' monsters I control gain 400 attack and defense points."

Cyspirit Cacophonic Caller ATK 500→900

Cyspirit Jubilant Jester ATK 1800→2200

"Appear for a third time, the circuit between light and darkness! The summoning condition is one 'Cyspirit' Link Monster. I set Cacophonic Caller in the Link Marker!" His monster entered the bottom-right arrow. "Link Summon! Appear! Link-1! Cyspirit Kooky Kommandant!" A skeleton in a silver officer's uniform emerged from the portal at Jubilant Jester's bottom-right Link Marker.

Cyspirit Kooky Kommandant ATK 1000→1400 LINK-1 ↘

"Since my 'Cyspirit' monster was sent to the Graveyard as Link Material, Cyspirit Mausoleum's effect lets me draw a card!" Morningstar drew and smirked. "Kooky Kommandant's effect activates! When it is linked to a Cyberse Link Marker, I can Tribute it to Special Summon a Level 4 or lower 'Cyspirit' monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated, and then add a Level 8 or lower 'Cyspirit' monster and a 'Cyspirit' Spell Card from my Deck to my hand." The Link Monster disintegrated at his words. "I Special Summon Cyspirit Swordsman!" The armored skeleton reappeared at Jubilant Jester's bottom-left Link Marker in Attack Position.

Cyspirit Swordsman ATK 1200→1600 DEF 900→1300 LVL: 3

Morningstar took two cards from his Deck and then played one of them. "I activate the Ritual Spell Card: Cyspirit Ritual!" he declared. Revolver's eyes widened. "I Tribute monsters from my hand and field whose total Levels equal or surpass the Level of the 'Cyspirit' Ritual Monster I'm Ritual Summoning!" A silver circle appeared on Morningstar's field. "I Tribute the Level 5 Cyspirit Firefighter in my hand!" A skeleton in a firefighter's outfit appeared as five blue flames materialized around the circle. The skeleton broke apart into particles and entered the circle, which emitted a beam of silver light.

"The contract has been made! The amphibious beast who brings about ruin inherits this one soul!" Morningstar chanted. "Ritual Summon! Rise, Level 5! Cyspirit Catastrophe Crocodile!" A silver metal crocodile with two cannons attached to its back emerged from the pillar with a hiss. It thumped its tail as its red and blue eyes glowed from Jubilant Jester's bottom-right Link Marker in Attack Position.

Cyspirit Catastrophe Crocodile ATK 1800→2200 DEF 900→1300 LVL: 5

"A new 'Cyspirit' Ritual Monster!" Playmaker realized.

"This one must be a support monster," Ai theorized.

"Catastrophe Crocodile's effect activates!" Morningstar declared. "When it is Ritual Summoned, I can add a 'Cyspirit' Spell Card from my Graveyard to my hand." He took a card from his Graveyard and then flipped it around, revealing it. Revolver's eyes widened on seeing it was Morningstar's Ritual Spell Card. "I activate the Ritual Spell Card: Cyspirit Ritual! I Tribute Level 3 Swordsman and Level 5 Catastrophe Crocodile to Ritual Summon!" The circle reappeared as the lines on Morningstar's suit turned blue. Eight flames appeared around the circle before the two monsters disintegrated and their data entered the circle, making it shoot a beam of light at the sky.

"The contract has been made. The horseman who was born anew inherits these two souls! Ritual Summon! Rise! Cyspirit Digital Dragoon!" A silver skeleton wearing a silver and gold officer's uniform emerged from the light, riding a silver skeleton horse and armed with a cavalry saber and blunderbuss. The horse reared back onto its hindlegs and neighed from Jubilant Jester's bottom-right Link Marker in Attack Position.

Cyspirit Digital Dragoon ATK 2500→2900 DEF 2000→2400 LVL: 8

Revolver narrowed his eyes on seeing Morningstar's Ritual Monster. "I activate Cyspirit Mausoleum's effect! Until my next Standby Phase, one 'Cyspirit' Link Monster is treated as pointing to a number of monsters equal to its Link Rating! I target Jubilant Jester!"

"Eh?" Ai blinked. "That's a good effect to have, but what does it matter? Doesn't Jubilant Jester's second effect only work if another 'Cyspirit' Link Monster inflicts battle damage?"

"It does," Playmaker agreed. "But the important part is that this effect lasts until Morningstar's next Standby Phase."

"Cyspirit Mausoleum makes Morningstar's linked 'Cyspirit' monsters unaffected by Revolver's monster effects," Cassiel reminded Ai. "The effect he just used means that even if Digital Dragoon leaves the field, Jubilant Jester will still be unaffected."

"And it will maintain it's attack point boosting effect," Soulburner said.

"Oh! I see!"

Morningstar gestured to his field. "Battle! Digital Dragoon attacks Borreload Dragon!"

"What?" Soulburner blinked. "But isn't Digital Dragoon weaker than Borreload Dragon?"

"Digital Dragoon's effect activates! When it battles a Link Monster, that monster's attack points become 0! And when it battles a monster in the Extra Monster Zone, that monster's effects are negated until the end of the turn! Process Shoot!" Digital Dragoon drew its blunderbuss and fired a shell at Borreload Dragon. Silver magma covered the dragon's chest and made it groan in pain.

Borreload Dragon ATK 3000→0

"Go! Harbinger's Fury!" Digital Dragoon leapt into the air and then its cavalry sword down on Borreload Dragon. The dragon exploded with a cry. A shockwave of wind struck Revolver, making him grunt in pain.

Revolver: 4000→1100 LP

"Morningstar took out most of Revolver's Life Points!" Ai said in surprise.

"If Jubilant Jester attacks directly, he'll win!" Cassiel exclaimed excitedly.

"Jubilant Jester attacks you directly!" Morningstar declared. The Link Monster spun its staff and then blasted Revolver with golden energy.

"Did you think it would be that easy?" Revolver demanded. "When your monster declares a direct attack the turn I take battle damage, I can Special Summon Checksum Dragon from my hand in Attack Position!" A red dragon with a large shield atop its head appeared.

Checksum Dragon ATK 400 DEF 2400 LVL: 6

"When Checksum Dragon is Special Summoned by its effect, I gain Life Points equal to half its defense points!"

Revolver: 1100→2300 LP

Morningstar narrowed his eyes. "Jubilant Jester attacks Checksum Dragon!" The golden bolt struck the dragon and exploded, creating a massive smoke cloud. But when the smoke faded, Checksum Dragon was revealed to be unhurt. Revolver, not so much.

Revolver: 2300→500 LP

"The turn Checksum Dragon is Special Summoned by its effect," Revolver explained, "it cannot be destroyed in battle."

"Darn it," Cypher whined. "We were so close. Well, he at least only has 500 Life Points left."

"…Does this remind you of anything, Revolver?" Morningstar asked, confusing their watchers.

Revolver himself just smirked. "Yes. It does seem to resemble that situation."

"When we dueled in the LINK VRAINS sewers, I destroyed Topologic Bomber Dragon and reduced you to 100 Life Points," Morningstar said. "Even with your Life Points that low, you still believed you could win. I assume you haven't lost that confidence?"

"Continue the duel and find out," Revolver taunted. Morningstar's lips turned upwards.

"I Set one card. I end my turn."

"And during the End Phase, as Magnarokket Dragon is in the Graveyard because it was destroyed and sent there, its effect activates!" Revolver declared. "I Special Summon a new 'Rokket' monster from my Deck. Come, Silverrokket Dragon!" A bright silver mechanical dragon with violet holographic wings appeared in Attack Position.

Silverrokket Dragon ATK 1900→2200 DEF 100→400 LVL: 4

"My turn! Draw!" Revolver looked at his card and smirked. "I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card: Squib Draw. I destroy my 'Rokket' monster to draw two cards. I destroy Silverrokket Dragon!" The dragon shattered and Revolver drew. "I activate Boot Sector Launch's effect! Once per turn, if you control more monsters than me, I can Special Summon different 'Rokket' monsters from my Graveyard up to the difference. You control two and I control one, so I Special Summon Magnarokket Dragon!" The blue metal dragon reappeared in Defense Position.

Magnarokket Dragon ATK 1800→2100 DEF 1200→1500 LVL: 4

"I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card: Quick Launch! This Special Summons a 'Rokket' monster from my Deck. Come, Metalrokket Dragon!" Another blue metal dragon, this one with a missile attached to its head and green lines covering its body, appeared in Attack Position.

Metalrokket Dragon ATK 1700→2000 DEF 1400→1700 LVL: 4

"Appear, the future circuit that lights up my path! The summoning conditions are two 'Rokket' monsters. I set Magnarokket Dragon and Metalrokket Dragon in the Link Markers!" The two monsters entered the bottom-left and bottom-right arrows. "Link Summon! Appear! Link-2! Booster Dragon!" A dark blue metal dragon with a gun barrel for a head and green holographic wings emerged from the portal at the Extra Monster Zone.

Booster Dragon ATK 1900 LINK-2 ↙↘

"I activate the Spell Card: Arrow Charge! Since there are two Link Monsters with the same Link Rating in the Extra Monster Zones, I can draw and reveal two cards." Revolver drew and Morningstar frowned as his screen revealed two Spell Cards. "But if those cards are still in my hand during the End Phase, they will be banished. I activate the Spell Card: Link Burst! This card targets my Link Monster and your monster and destroys them. I target Booster Dragon and Digital Dragoon!"

Morningstar grit his teeth. Cyspirit Mausoleum only kept Revolver's monsters from affecting his linked 'Cyspirit' monsters. It did nothing against Spell or Trap Cards. Fortunately, Morningstar had been prepared for this. "I activate the effect Digital Dragoon gained from Catastrophe Crocodile!" he declared. "Since Catastrophe Crocodile was used to Ritual Summon Digital Dragoon, I can banish a 'Cyspirit' monster from my Graveyard if it would be destroyed to prevent its destruction. I banish Cyspirit Kid!" Booster Dragon exploded, but Digital Dragoon remained on the field.

"I figured you'd have a countermeasure like that," Revolver said. "Since Link Burst was activated, I now draw a card." He drew, then said, "The Link Summoned Booster Dragon's effect activates! When it is destroyed by battle or card effect and sent to the Graveyard, I can Special Summon another Dragon monster from my Graveyard. Resurrect, Borreload Dragon!" The red and silver dragon reappeared and roared.

Borreload Dragon ATK 3000 LINK-4 ←↙↘→

"He got his ace monster back," Cypher said warningly. "Thankfully it can't use its effects on our monsters."

"It isn't Borreload Dragon we need to worry about," Morningstar said as he narrowed his eyes. "Remember what monster Revolver has in his hand?"

"I do. And yes, that's the one we need to worry about."

"I summon Rokket Synchron!" A small blue mechanical dragon with green holographic wings appeared.

Rokket Synchron ATK 300→600 DEF 0→300 LVL: 1

"Rokket Synchron's effect activates! As it was Normal Summoned, I can Special Summon a Level 5 or higher Dark Dragon monster from my Graveyard in Defense Position with its effects negated. Come, Noctovision Dragon!" A thin dark green mechanical dragon appeared.

Noctovision Dragon ATK 0 DEF 2800 LVL: 7

"Noctovision Dragon will be destroyed during the End Phase. But that won't matter. Level 1 Rokket Synchron tunes Level 7 Noctovision Dragon!" A bolt of green lightning struck Revolver and made the world gray out. The two monsters disintegrated into data and reformed into two rings, one of which was composed of seven concentric circles. The rings turned blue and merged before reforming into a tower of eight blue rings. A screen appeared before the tower and displayed "1 + 7" before changing to "8." A surge of light burst through the rings.

"Heroic dragon!" Revolver chanted. "Fire by transforming your ferocious fangs into bullets! Synchro Summon! Come out, Level 8! Borreload Savage Dragon!" A large dragon with a gun cylinder in its chest emerged from the light. This one was covered in white armor, with numerous green holographic wings and glowing green lines all over its body. The dragon roared from Borreload Dragon's right Link Marker in Attack Position.

Borreload Savage Dragon ATK 3000 DEF 2500 LVL: 8

Morningstar grit his teeth. "It's here," Cypher said solemnly.

"Revolver's newest ace monster."

"Borreload Savage Dragon's effect activates!" Revolver declared. "When it is Synchro Summoned, I can equip a Link Monster from my Graveyard to it, increase its attack points by half of that monster's attack points, and place Borrel Counters on it for each of that monster's Link Markers. I equip Link-2 Booster Dragon to Borreload Savage Dragon!" Two golden orbs were loaded in Savage Dragon's chest cylinder as it rotated.

Borreload Savage Dragon: 0 BC→2 BC ATK 3000→3950

"That's not good," Playmaker said, his eyes narrowing. "Digital Dragoon is lethal against Link Monsters and monsters in the Extra Monster Zone. But Savage Dragon is a Synchro Monster and in the Main Monster Zone."

"…This is gonna hurt, isn't it?" Ai asked, feeling no small amount of pity for his fellow Ignis.

"Definitely," Flame answered.

"Battle!" Revolver declared. "Borreload Dragon attacks Jubilant Jester! Varrel Cannon of Lightning!" Borreload Dragon extended a gun barrel from its mouth and fired a large shell at Jubilant Jester. The bullet tore through the Link Monster, making it explode and hitting Morningstar with a shockwave.

Morningstar: 4000→3200 LP

The former bounty hunter grit his teeth. "Since Jubilant Jester left the field, Digital Dragoon's attack and defense points return to normal."

Cyspirit Digital Dragoon ATK 2900→2500 DEF 2500→2000

"And since Digital Dragoon is no longer linked to a 'Cyspirit' Link Monster, it can be affected by my monsters' effects," Revolver reminded him. Said reminder made Morningstar grimace. "Next, Borreload Savage Dragon attacks Digital Dragoon!" A gun barrel extended from Savage Dragon's mouth. "Borreload Dragon's effect activates! Once per turn, I can target a monster and reduce tis attack and defense points by 500, and you cannot activate cards or effects in response to this effect. Go, Anti-Enemy Varrett!"

Cyspirit Digital Dragoon ATK 2500→2000 DEF 2000→1500

"Go! Varrel Fire of Thunderclap!" A golden sphere formed above Savage Dragon's mouth. It then launched the energy in a stream that tore through Digital Dragoon. Morningstar cried out as he was knocked off his feet and collided with the altar, creating a cloud of dust.

"Morningstar!" Cassiel and Soulburner cried out in shock. Playmaker narrowed his eyes in concern as he watched the smoke cloud.

The cloud dissipated, revealing Morningstar laying in the rubble of the altar. The cross had been knocked over while the goblet and tray had clattered to the ground. The former bounty hunter groaned as he shifted his body.

Morningstar: 3200→1250 LP

Revolver watched impassively as Morningstar picked himself up from the rubble. "You're going to regret that," he warned his opponent. "I activate the effect of Cyspirit Ritual in the Graveyard! Since my 'Cyspirit' Ritual Monster was destroyed by battle and sent to the Graveyard, I can banish it and Cyspirit Ritual to Special Summon a Link-3 or lower 'Cyspirit' Link Monster from my Extra Deck and treat it as a Link Summon!"

"You can't," Revolver dismissed. "Savage Dragon's effect activates! I remove a Borrel Counter to negate your effect!"

Borreload Savage Dragon: 2 BC→1 BC

Morningstar grit his teeth. "I have one attack left. Checksum Dragon attacks you directly!" A red laser beam shot out of the dragon's shield and struck the former bounty hunter, making him wince.

Morningstar: 1250→850 LP

"I activate the Spell Card: Borrel Cooldown!" The card showed an immense hangar with Borrelsword Dragon standing in one of the slots. Numerous tubes were shooting out fire extinguishing foam all over the dragon. "Since I control a 'Borrel' monster, I can Tribute a monster I control to gain Life Points equal to its attack or defense points, whichever one is higher. I Tribute Checksum Dragon to gain Life Points equal to its defense points!"

Revolver: 500→2900 LP

"I Set one card. I end my turn. And since Silverrokket Dragon was destroyed this turn and sent to the Graveyard, I Special Summon Anesthrokket Dragon from my Deck!" A yellow and green mechanical dragon with a syringe attached to its head appeared in Defense Position.

Anesthrokket Dragon ATK 0→300 DEF 2200→2500 LVL: 1

"Damn, this guy's good," Cypher said softly. "I knew he was from the records and his duel with Windy… but it's different seeing it like this."

"Yeah…" Morningstar narrowed his eyes as another figure overlaid Revolver. One in red and black armor. "But if I can't overcome Revolver, then I stand no chance against Zahhak. I have to win this and move forward! My turn! Draw! I activate the effect of Cyspirit Emblem in my Graveyard! By banishing it and the Level 5 Cyspirit Firefighter from my Graveyard, I can Special Summon a 'Cyspirit' monster from my Graveyard whose Level is equal to, or one higher or lower than Firefighter's."

"You won't!" Revolver interrupted. "Borreload Savage Dragon's effect activates! I remove a Borrel Counter to negate your effect!"

Borreload Savage Dragon: 1 BC→0 BC

Morningstar smirked. "I was hoping you'd do that." Revolver's eyes widened. "I activate the Spell Card: Cyspirit Gift! By discarding a 'Cyspirit' card, I can draw two cards. I discard Cyspirit Samurai and draw!" He looked at his cards and his smirk widened. "I summon Cyspirit Sorceress!" A skeleton in a black dress appeared and swung a metal staff.

Cyspirit Sorceress ATK 1400 DEF 400 LVL: 4

"Sorceress's effect activates! When it is Normal Summoned, I Special Summon a Level 4 or lower 'Cyspirit' monster from my Graveyard in Attack Position. Resurrect, Cyspirit Swordsman!" The armored skeleton reappeared in Attack Position and swung his swords.

Cyspirit Swordsman ATK 1200 DEF 900 LVL: 3

"Since I control at least two 'Cyspirit' monsters, I activate the Spell Card: Cyspirit Reinforcements! This lets me Special Summon a Level 6 or lower 'Cyspirit' monster from my Graveyard in Attack Position. Come, Cyspirit Prisoner!" The skeleton in a jumpsuit reappeared.

Cyspirit Prisoner ATK 1600 DEF 2100 LVL: 5

"I activate the Spell Card: Cyspirit Heart!" The card showed a bone-white metal heart, with two smaller hearts on either side – one red and one blue – held up in a skeleton's hand. "I Special Summon a 'Cyspirit' monster with a Level from my Graveyard in Defense Position with its effects negated. Return, Cyspirit Catastrophe Crocodile!" The skeletal crocodile reappeared and hissed.

Cyspirit Catastrophe Crocodile ATK 1800 DEF 900 LVL: 5

"Oh!" A wide-eyed Ai gasped. "He brought out four 'Cyspirit' monsters so quickly!"

"Sorceress's effect activates! Once per turn, I can declare a Level between 1 and 6 and change Sorceress to that Level. I declare Level 5!"

Cyspirit Sorceress LVL: 4→5

"Appear, the circuit between light and darkness! The summoning conditions are three Level 5 or higher 'Cyspirit' monsters. I set Catastrophe Crocodile, Prisoner, and Sorceress in the Link Markers!" His monsters entered the bottom-left, bottom, and bottom-right arrows. "Link Summon! Appear! Link-3! Cyspirit Winning Wrestler!" A giant skeleton wearing a black cape and pants emerged from the portal. Two championship belts were looped across its chest. Wings spread from its back and it roared from the right Extra Monster Zone.

Cyspirit Winning Wrestler ATK 2500 LINK-3 ↙↓↘

Revolver narrowed his eyes. "It's here." The monster that almost beat him before.

"Since Prisoner was used to Link Summon Winning Wrestler, I can add a 'Cyspirit' card from my Deck to my hand." Morningstar took a card from his Deck. "Since a 'Cyspirit' monster was sent to the Graveyard for a Link Summon, Mausoleum's effect lets me draw a card. And since the monster Special Summoned by Cyspirit Heart was sent to the Graveyard as Link Material, I can draw another card."

"Three new cards!" An impressed Flame said. "His Deck has amazing draw power!"

"Borreload Dragon's effect activates!" Revolver declared. "I target Anesthrokket Dragon and reduce its attack and defense points by 500! This triggers Anesthrokket Dragon's effect! Since it was targeted by a Link Monster's effect, I can destroy it!" Anesthrokket Dragon shattered and turned into a golden orb that entered the barrel in Borreload Dragon's chest. "Then, I can negate the effects of one of your monsters and prevent it from attacking! I target Winning Wrestler!" Borreload Dragon fired a bullet at Winning Wrestler and sprayed it with yellow gunk, covering it and making it groan.

Morningstar grit his teeth. Winning Wrestler wasn't linked to Swordsman, so Cyspirit Mausoleum's effect didn't protect it. Still… He looked at one of the cards he drew. Yes, he had a better plan for this turn. "Since I control a 'Cyspirit' monster, I can Special Summon Cyspirit Navigator!" The skeleton dressed like a pirate appeared at Winning Wrestler's bottom-left Link Marker in Attack Position.

Cyspirit Navigator ATK 1300 DEF 1100 LVL: 3

"Appear again, the circuit between light and darkness! The summoning conditions are two Level 4 or lower 'Cyspirit' monsters. I set Navigator and Swordsman in the Link Markers!" His monstered entered the left and top arrow. "Link Summon! Appear! Link-2! Cyspirit Idealistic Idol!" A feminine skeleton with long black hair tied in a ponytail emerged from the portal, wearing an indigo dress with its wings fanning out behind it at Winning Wrestler's bottom Link Marker.

Cyspirit Idealistic Idol ATK 1500 LINK-2 ←↑

"Those two monsters together form a very powerful combination," Playmaker remembered. "What with Winning Wrestler unable to attack, what is Morningstar planning?"

"I activate the effect of Cyspirit Samurai in my Graveyard! When I control a 'Cyspirit' Link Monster, I can Special Summon it to that monster's Link Marker!" A skeleton in black and red armor appeared in Attack Position at Idealistic Idol's left Link Marker and unsheathed a katana from its waist.

Cyspirit Samurai ATK 1800 DEF 1000 LVL: 4

Revolver's eyes widened. "That monster-!" Soulburner exclaimed.

"I activate the Spell Card: Cyspirit Fusion! Using monsters from my hand or field, I Fusion Summon a 'Cyspirit' Fusion Monster. I fuse Samurai with Idealistic Idol and Winning Wrestler!" The monsters broke apart into red, blue, and green data that spiraled into a vortex. Three twisters shot upwards before merging into a violet tornado.

"The supreme blade that cleaves the wind! Resurrect the ancient legend! Fusion Summon! Come out! Cyspirit Savage Shogun!" A silver katana split the tornado, revealing a skeleton in black and silver armor and helmet with two sheaths on its hip. The monster sheathed its katana from the right Extra Monster Zone in Attack Position.

Cyspirit Savage Shogun ATK 2800 DEF 2300 LVL: 8

Revolver narrowed his eyes. "Morningstar's Fusion Monster…"

"I activate the Equip Spell Card: Cyspirit War Helm and equip it to Savage Shogun!" The Fusion Monster's helmet disintegrated and was replaced by a new silver one. This one was tapered at the top and came with a raised face guard. Wings framed the sides of the helmet. "The equipped Savage Shogun gains 800 attack points."

Cyspirit Savage Shogun ATK 2800→3600

"In addition, so long as War Helm is equipped, you cannot target my other 'Cyspirit' monsters for attacks or with your card effects."

"Oh!" Ai blinked. "So it's like a Spell Card version of Cyberse Magician, Clock Dragon, and Quantum Dragon?"

"War Helm also grants the equipped monster an effect that's dependent on their type," Morningstar said. He then pointed to his field. "Savage Shogun's effect! The turn it is Special Summoned, no other monsters can attack. And since it was Fusion Summoned, it can attack a number of times equal to the number of Link Monsters used for its Fusion Summon. Since I used two, that means it can twice!

"Battle! Savage Shogun attacks Borreload Dragon!" The monster unsheathed its katana and charged the dragon.

Revolver smirked. "Trap activate! Magic Cylinder!"

Ai and Playmaker gasped. "Magic Cylinder?!" Ai repeated.

"The Trap Card Revolver attempted to use against Windy!" Playmaker remembered.

"Magic Cylinder negates your attack and then inflicts damage equal to your monster's attack points!" Revolver explained.

Morningstar smirked. "Are you sure about that?" Revolver raised an eyebrow. "Counter Trap activate! Cyspirit Shutdown! Since I control a 'Cyspirit' monster, your Trap Card is negated and banished!" Revolver gasped as Magic Cylinder glitched out and then warped away. "Furthermore, so long as Magic Cylinder remains banished, you cannot activate cards with the same original name as it."

"He got around it!" Ai said excitedly.

"…So you were prepared for this too," Revolver said with a light smirk. "Like back then, when you countered my Mirror Force without realizing it."

Morningstar raised an eyebrow before remembering the face-down card Revolver had in their last duel. The card he hadn't activated because Winning Wrestler prevented cards from being destroyed by effects.

"…Savage Shogun continues its attack! True Termination Slash!" In a flash of silver, Savage Shogun stood behind Borreload Dragon and sheathed its sword. The second the hilt touched the sheath, the dragon exploded, and the resulting shockwave pushed Revolver back.

Revolver: 2900→2300 LP

"The effect of Cyspirit War Helm activates!" Morningstar continued. "Since the equipped monster is a Fusion Monster, and since it inflicted battle damage, I can destroy a card in your Spell & Trap Zone and draw a card. I'll destroy Booster Dragon!" Said Equip Card shattered, leaving Revolver to grit his teeth.

"With the Equip Card gone, Borreload Savage Dragon's attack points return to normal," Playmaker noted.

Borreload Savage Dragon ATK 3950→3000

Morningstar drew as Revolver gestured to his field. "Since my 'Borrel' monster left the field, I activate the effect of Borrel Cooldown in my Graveyard!" he declared. "I banish it and draw a card!"

Now Revolver drew as Morningstar gestured to his field. "The second attack! Savage Shogun attacks Borreload Savage Dragon!" Savage Shogun raised its katana over its head and ignited a silver flame. "Savage Shogun's effect activates! When it battles a monster Special Summoned from the Extra Deck, it gains 1000 attack points!"

Cyspirit Savage Shogun ATK 3600→4600

"Go! Final Termination Slash!" Savage Shogun brought its sword down with a shout, blasting Borreload Savage Dragon with silver energy. The energy cleaved through the dragon, splitting it down the middle before it exploded, knocking Revolver back. A piece of debris, knocked up by the explosion, struck Revolver's visor, chipping the glass on the left side.

Revolver: 2300→700 LP

Cyspirit Savage Shogun ATK 4600→3600

"I Set one card," Morningstar said. "I end my turn. And now that we're in the End Phase, I activate the effect of Cyspirit Heart! By banishing it, I can Special Summon a 'Cyspirit' Link Monster from my Graveyard. Resurrect, Idealistic Idol!" The skeleton in an indigo dress reappeared and linked itself to Savage Shogun via its top Link Marker.

Cyspirit Idealistic Idol ATK 1500 LINK-2 ←↑

Revolver narrowed his eyes. "As Anesthrokket Dragon was destroyed this turn and sent to the Graveyard, I can Special Summon Shelrokket Dragon!" A golden metal dragon with a green tube attached to its head appeared in Defense Position.

Shelrokket Dragon ATK 1100→1400 DEF 2000→2300 LVL: 2

"…I'm not sure I get it," Ai said. "Why would Morningstar bring back Idealistic Idol instead of Winning Wrestler or Jubilant Jester? They're stronger, aren't they?"

"They are," Playmaker agreed. "But neither of them has a Link Marker that points upwards."

"Upwards… Oh! Now I get it! He summoned Idealistic Idol so that it would be linked to Savage Shogun. That way, it would be protected from Revolver's monsters because of Cyspirit Mausoleum."

"Not only that, but Cyspirit War Helm prevents Revolver from attacking or using effects on Morningstar's other monsters," Soulburner said. "Revolver will have to attack Savage Shogun, and if he uses a monster from the Extra Deck, Savage Shogun will gain attack points."

"A strong defense," Flame agreed. "Morningstar is prepared for Revolver's onslaught."

Cassiel narrowed her eyes. "And yet he had the advantage last turn too. But Revolver turned that around." Be careful, Yasu…

---

Techbane looked around him as he walked in procession. Jester and Zahhak stood at the front of the group, with Merlin and Thaumiel behind them and Techbane and HK-72 taking up the rear.

The palace they were in was different from the entry hall he'd been taken to before. That place had been all whites and blacks, projecting an aura of cleanliness and order. That the building's owner was in control. This place was more colorful, with a focus on gold and periwinkle. The colors were more vibrant than Jormungand's base, but it felt… gaudy. Conspicuous. While the previous place gave the impression of order and unity, this one seemed designed to enforce a perception of superiority, that the owner was more important than them in every way.

The others didn't seem to share his thoughts. Merlin had adopted an expression of idle curiosity as he stared straight ahead, and while he couldn't see their faces, Techbane felt he had enough of a grasp of their personalities to know what they would think if he voiced his opinion of their surroundings. Thaumiel would want to burn it all down just to see the Light Ignis's reaction. Jester would be amused and offer sardonic comments that would make the Light Ignis want to burn the place down himself. And Zahhak would ignore it all, as if it was beneath his notice.

For all Techbane knew, it probably was.

"Query: Are you nervous, Techbane?"

The bounty hunter turned to his mechanical companion. HK-72 was the only one he couldn't say would have a reaction to his thoughts. The AI duelist only seemed to care about defeating duelists in the most violent way possible.

"…A little," he answered. "I'm about to meet an AI that wants to enslave humanity and tell him I want to help him do it. No pressure or anything."

Merlin lightly chuckled at Techbane's response. "Statement: Do not worry, bounty hunter. We just need to duel our enemies; Master Jormungand's plan is sound."

Techbane frowned. "I wish I could believe that. The only problem is I don't know what Jormungand's plan is."

"I am sorry for the secrecy, Techbane," Merlin said, glancing over his shoulder. "But the Light Ignis is cunning. He may try to trick you into telling him our plans."

"And he won't try to trick any of you?"

Thaumiel chuckled. "We aren't total amateurs."

Techbane seethed at that but Jester spoke up before he could answer. "If it makes you feel better, Techbane, there's only one of us who knows the whole plan."

The bounty hunter blinked. "Only one of you? Who?"

Jester chuckled. "Who else?"

Techbane turned to Zahhak. "Then-."

"Jormungand has given me operational command," the armored man said. "He trusts me to perform the task I have been assigned. Just as he trusts you to perform the task you were assigned."

"Each of us have been given a role, and Jormungand trusts us to fulfill those roles," Merlin said. "In the end, it all comes down to whether or not you trust Jormungand. And I do."

"…Alright," Techbane said, slightly mollified. "Anything I need to be wary of?"

"The Wind Ignis will try and pick a fight," Jester said easily. "The Light Ignis will pry for any weaknesses. Ignore the former and be careful with the latter."

"Bohman will ignore you," Zahhak said. "Or he'll ask you questions. Answer them at your own discretion. As for Haru, he will likely ignore you as well."

"Alright." He supposed they did hold an advantage. Six against four? Shouldn't be a problem. Especially if what Merlin said about Zahhak and Jester was true.

The six came to a massive door, which fell inwards, revealing a massive throne room. Sitting on a levitating throne was a purple-haired human in white and gold robes. And above the Duel Disk on his left wrist sat-

"Welcome, Enforcers of Ouroboros."

Beneath his helmet, Techbane narrowed his eyes at the yellow and gold AI sitting on the boy's wrist. So this was the Light Ignis. Lightning, he was called. The AI who had declared war on humanity.

There were two others with him. One was a green Ignis standing atop a support AI. It wore a cape and eyepatch over numerous bandages. The other was a young boy with yellow and orange hair wearing similar robes to the boy on the throne.

According to Zahhak, their names were Windy and Haru.

"We have returned, Lightning," Zahhak said. "And we have brought reinforcements."

"I can see that." The Light Ignis looked over the rest of the group. "I actually recognize two of you. You're Techbane, SOL's bounty hunter, yes?"

Said bounty hunter tensed but nodded. "I was. I quit."

"I see. And so you signed up with these Enforcers. Such a curious development. I can't help but wonder why."

Techbane remembered Jester's warning about Lightning. "SOL didn't pay well enough. Ouroboros does."

"Hmm. Money, then? Very well, I can understand that." Lightning turned to the sole non-human of the group. "And you are the AI duelist that attacked Playmaker's group in the Wind World. I thought you had been deleted. Or are you like Bit and Boot, in that there are many of you?"

"Offended Clarification: I am nothing like those two mooks! I am HK-72, an AI Duel Assassin. I am the only one of my kind in the world!"

Lightning blinked. "Hmm. You have… an interesting personality for an AI."

"HK is rebuilt every time he is defeated," Zahhak said. "And then he comes back stronger."

"…I see. Then who would you two be?"

Merlin smiled and stepped forward. He bowed slightly at the waist. "I am Merlin, Enforcer No. V. I have been an Enforcer for decades now, so I hope you'll find my experience helpful."

"And I am Enforcer No. X. You may call me Thaumiel."

"That is good to know. And why are you two here? I was told that Enforcers are given some leeway in how they act. Why are you aiding me?"

Merlin's smile fractionally widened. "I am aiding you because I am ordered to. Being an Enforcer is my life's work; I will perform the duty that is expected of me."

"Hmm. Very well. I will accept such an explanation. You honor Jormungand with your loyalty." Lightning's eyes shifted to the other human. "And you? Why are you helping?"

Thaumiel chuckled. "I am repaying a favor. And looking for revenge."

"Revenge?"

"It is nothing to concern yourself with."

Lightning narrowed his eyes and stared at Thaumiel before nodding. "Alright. I'll let this go. I am sorry that Bohman could not be here to greet you, but he has a vital task he is working on right now; one that was interrupted before."

Merlin nodded. "Zahhak informed us of the Gold Ignis's attack. We can assure you she won't be getting that close to you again."

"I don't expect her to attack again; Goldie is not a fool, and her first attack failed. And that was while she was unexpected." Lightning's eyes narrowed. "But never mind that. Let's discuss our mutual enemies."

---

"My turn! Draw!" Revolver declared. "Boot Sector Launch's effect activates! Since you control more monsters than me, I can Special Summon a 'Rokket' monster from my Graveyard. Resurrect, Metalrokket Dragon!" The blue metal dragon with green lines on his body appeared in Defense Position.

Metalrokket Dragon ATK 1700→2000 DEF 1400→1700 LVL: 4

Morningstar narrowed his eyes. Two Rokket monsters, he thought. A Link Summon is coming.

"Appear, the future circuit that lights up my path! The summoning conditions are two Dark Dragon monsters. I set Metalrokket Dragon and Shelrokket Dragon in the Link Markers!" His two monsters entered the bottom and bottom-right arrows. "Link Summon! Appear! Link-2! Synthborrel Dragon!"

The metallic dragon that emerged from the portal had dark orange skin with light red armor covering its legs, tail, and neck. Its tail ended in two prongs, and a gun cylinder sat in its chest. Violet holographic wings shout out of its back, and a single dark red gun barrel was attached to the top of the dragon's head. Said dragon roared from the Extra Monster Zone.

Synthborrel Dragon ATK 1200 LINK-2 ↓↘

"That card isn't in Revolver's records," Cypher warned. "It may have low attack points, but it probably has powerful effects. Be careful, partner."

"Synthborrel Dragon's effect activates! Once per turn, I Special Summon a 'Rokket' monster from my Graveyard to its Link Marker with its effects negated. But I will be unable to Special Summon other monsters for the rest of the turn, except for Dragon monsters. Resurrect, Autorokket Dragon!" The light brown metal dragon reappeared at Synthborrel Dragon's bottom-right Link Marker in Attack Position.

Autorokket Dragon ATK 1600→1900 DEF 1000→1300 LVL: 3

"Synthborrel Dragon's additional effect activates! By using monsters on the field as material, I can Fusion Summon a Dragon Fusion Monster!"

Morningstar, Playmaker, Soulburner, and Cassiel all gasped. "What?!" Flame said.

"Fusion Summon?!" Ai repeated.

"That's his goal?!" Cypher shouted.

"I fuse Autorokket Dragon and Synthborrel Dragon!" The monsters broke apart into red and blue data and swirled into a vortex. Two twisters shot upward and merged into a violet tornado. "The two forlorn anger that live in the network, surpass the root of evil and become one! Fusion Summon! Appear! Level 8! Borreload Furious Dragon!"

A new red and black mechanical dragon emerged from the whirlwind. This one had purple holographic wings and purple armor on its legs, arms, and wings. It also had two red tusks on either side of its mouth and two violet horns. The dragon roared from the Extra Monster Zone in Attack Position.

Borreload Furious Dragon ATK 3000 DEF 2500 LVL: 8

"Revolver has a Fusion Monster?" Playmaker wondered in surprise.

"He kept this up his sleeve?" Soulburner asked.

Cassiel's eyes narrowed as she looked at the dumbfounded Morningstar. "Morningstar…"

"Well… I didn't see that coming," Cypher admitted. "Still, Savage Shogun has more attack points, and his effects won't work on our monsters."

"Indeed they won't," Revolver agreed. "For now. I activate the Equip Spell Card: Borrel Regenerator! I Special Summon a 'Rokket' monster to the field and equip it with Borrel Regenerator. Come, Anesthrokket Dragon!" The green and yellow dragon reappeared in Defense Position.

Anesthrokket Dragon ATK 0→300 DEF 2200→2500 LVL: 1

"Borreload Furious Dragon's effect activates! I can target one monster I control and one card you control and destroy them both!" Morningstar's eyes widened. "I destroy Anesthrokket Dragon and Cyspirit Mausoleum! Null Varrel Fire!" Anesthrokket Dragon reformed into an orb of light and entered Furious Dragon's chest cavity. The dragon opened its mouth and revealed a gun barrel. It fired a beam of violet energy at Morningstar's Field Spell Card, making it shatter.

"Oh, that's not good," a dispirited Cypher said.

"But if Cyspirit Mausoleum is gone, doesn't that mean Revolver's monster effects can now affect Morningstar's monsters?" Ai asked.

"That's right," Playmaker confirmed with a grimace. "But Cyspirit War Helm will still prevent Revolver from targeting any other monster besides Savage Shogun for attacks or effects."

"Since Borrel Regenerator left the field, Anesthrokket Dragon is banished," Revolver said. "And since Borrel Regenerator was sent to the Graveyard because Anesthrokket Dragon was destroyed, I can draw a card!" Revolver drew and smirked. "Morningstar! This is just the card I needed!"

The former bounty hunter narrowed his eyes. "Well, that's not ominous," Cypher said sarcastically.

"I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card: Bayonet Punisher! This lets me apply a number of effects in sequence depending on the card types of 'Borrel' monsters that are on my field and in my Graveyard. And since I control a monster with at least 3000 attack points, you cannot activate cards or effects in response to this card." Revolver held up a finger. "The first effect! Since I control a 'Borrel' Fusion Monster, one monster you control is banished!"

Morningstar's eyes widened. "I banish Savage Shogun!" The Fusion Monster warped away at Revolver's words.

"Damn it!" Cypher growled. "If Savage Shogun had been destroyed and sent to the Graveyard, we could have used Cyspirit Fusion's effect to get a new Link Monster!"

Revolver raised a finger. "The second effect! Since there is a 'Borrel' Synchro Monster in my Graveyard, I can banish three random cards from your Extra Deck!" Morningstar gasped as three of his cards disintegrated. While they were random, Morningstar could still check his Extra Deck to see which monsters he had left. And…

His eyes widened again. "Oh no."

Revolver smirked. "Judging from that reaction, it seems I was successful."

Morningstar glared at his opponent. Three monsters had been banished. Cyspirit Cosmic Crusader, Cyspirit Rapid Revolutionary… and Cyspirit Superior Seraphim. His Link-5 was gone.

Revolver raised a third finger. "The third effect! Since there is a 'Borrel' Link Monster in my Graveyard, I can banish up to three cards from your Graveyard. I banish Catastrophe Crocodile, Prisoner, and Winning Wrestler!" Morningstar grimaced as the cards were removed.

"Damn it," Cypher whined. "Not only did we lose Savage Shogun, but we lost Superior Seraphim too!" The onlookers' eyes all widened on hearing that Morningstar had lost his strongest monster.

"This duel is over, Morningstar," Revolver said. "You have 850 Life Points. Idealistic Idol has 1500 attack points while Furious Dragon has 3000. This is the end! Battle! Furious Dragon attacks Idealistic Idol!" The gun barrel extended again and charged with golden energy.

Morningstar grit his teeth and gestured to his field. "Trap activate! World Legacy Awakens! I Link Summon using monsters I control as material. Appear, the circuit between light and darkness! The summoning condition is one 'Cyspirit' Link Monster. I set Idealistic Idol in the Link Marker!" The idol entered the bottom arrow. "Link Summon! Appear! Link-1! Cyspirit Youthful Yakuza!" A silver skeleton emerged from the portal. It was dressed in an open black suit and pants over a dark gray button-up shirt with no tie. Styled black hair grew on the skeleton's head and it held a handgun in its right hand and a machete in its left. A small set of wings sprouted from its back as it was summoned to the Extra Monster Zone.

Cyspirit Youthful Yakuza ATK 1000 LINK-1 ↓

Playmaker blinked. "I don't recognize that monster."

"Why would he summon that?" Soulburner wondered. "It has fewer attack points than Idealistic Idol!"

Revolver narrowed his eyes. "Furious Dragon attacks Youthful Yakuza! Varrel Cannon of Ferocity!" The dragon fired a beam of energy at the Link Monster and made it explode. But when the smoke cleared, Morningstar was unharmed.

"The turn Youthful Yakuza is Link Summoned, I take no damage," Morningstar explained.

Cassiel breathed a sigh of relief. That had been too close.

"In addition, when Youthful Yakuza is sent to the Graveyard, I can add a 'Cyspirit' monster from my Graveyard to my hand and send a 'Cyspirit' monster from my Deck to the Graveyard. I'll add Cyspirit Sorceress to my hand and send Cyspirit Coder to my Graveyard."

Revolver grunted and smirked. "I'm somewhat glad you evaded that attack. But your luck won't last. I Set one card. I end my turn."

"Morningstar managed to survive the turn," Playmaker said in relief. "But he's lost the advantage."

"Their Life Points are about equal too," Ai added. "Considering how this duel's gone so far, it could go to either of them."

"My turn! Draw!" Morningstar looked at his card. "I summon Cyspirit Sorceress!" The skeleton in a black dress reappeared and spun her metal staff.

Cyspirit Sorceress ATK 1400 DEF 400 LVL: 4

"Sorceress's effect activates! I Special Summon a Level 4 or lower 'Cyspirit' monster from my Graveyard in Attack Position. Resurrect, Swordsman!" The armored skeleton reappeared and swung his swords.

Cyspirit Swordsman ATK 1200 DEF 900 LVL: 3

"I activate the effect of Youthful Yakuza in my Graveyard! By banishing it, I can Special Summon a 'Cyspirit' Link Monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated. Resurrect, Idealistic Idol!" The skeleton in an indigo dress reappeared and spread her wings.

Cyspirit Idealistic Idol ATK 1500 LINK-2 ←↑

"Appear, the circuit between light and darkness!" Morningstar's eyes narrowed. "Arrowheads confirmed! The summoning conditions are three or more 'Cyspirit' monsters. I set Sorceress, Swordsman, and Link-2 Idealistic Idol in the Link Markers!" His monsters entered the top-left, top, bottom, and top-right arrows.

Revolver's eyes widened. "This is-!"

"Circuit combine! Link Summon! Appear! Link-4! Cyspirit Falconet Fafnir!" A massive dragon skeleton that stood on its legs and arms emerged from the portal. A white light covered it, and when the light faded, it revealed the dragon had dark gold skin with black diamonds painted across it. Wings were attached to its arms, and its claws were midnight black. Spikes covered its spine and went down its long tail that ended in a black arrow. Two black cannon barrels were attached to the dragon's back, right next to its shoulders, and another barrel sat atop its head. Black tusks sat on either side of the dragon's mouth, and its red and blue eyes gleamed as it roared from the Extra Monster Zone.

Cyspirit Falconet Fafnir ATK 3000 LINK-4 ↖↑↓↗

"A new 'Cyspirit' Link Monster!" Ai cheered.

"With 3000 attack points!" Soulburner said in surprise.

Revolver's eyes narrowed in thought. This is the last 'Cyspirit' Link Monster. So now they're all accounted for…

"I activate the effect of Cyspirit Coder in my Graveyard! By banishing it, one 'Cyspirit' Link Monster is treated as pointing to monsters equal to its Link Rating until the end of the turn. I target Falconet Fafnir!" A skeleton in a lab coat and armor appeared and then disappeared as Falconet Fafnir glowed.

"Falconet Fafnir's effect activates! Once per turn, if it points to at least one monster, I can increase a monster's attack and defense points by 700. I target Falconet Fafnir itself!"

Cyspirit Falconet Fafnir ATK 3000→3700

"Its attack points are 3700," Cassiel noted. "And Furious Dragon's attack points are 3000."

"If this attack hits, Morningstar wins!" Soulburner cheered.

"But Revolver has a Set card," Playmaker reminded them. "This won't be that easy."

"Battle! Falconet Fafnir attacks Borreload Furious Dragon!" The dragon reared up and opened its mouth as the cannons on its back and head started to charge.

"Continuous Trap activate!" Revolver declared. "Draconian Reincarnation Cycle!" The card showed Darkblaze Dragon rising up from behind a skeleton that resembled Felgrand Dragon. "Once per turn, I banish a Dragon monster from my Graveyard to place a counter on this card. And then, I can Special Summon a Dragon monster from my Deck whose Level is less than or equal to the banished monster's Level." Morningstar's eyes widened as he caught on to Revolver's plan. "I banish the Level 3 Autorokket Dragon and Special Summon FPS Dragon!" The amber-eyed dragon that appeared in Attack Position had light brown skin covered in black plates on its hide and tail. A cannon barrel was attached to its back, along with four green holographic wings.

Draconian Reincarnation Cycle: 0 C→1 C

FPS Dragon ATK 800 DEF 1200 LVL: 3

"Furious Dragon's effect activates! I target and destroy a monster on my field and a card on your field! I destroy FPS Dragon and Falconet Fafnir!" FPS Dragon turned into an orb and entered Furious Dragon's chest cylinder. "Null Varrel Fire!" A gun barrel extended from Furious Dragon's mouth and fired a large shell at Falconet Fafnir. Morningstar only smirked in response.

"Falconet Fafnir's effect! Since it is treated as pointing to at least three monsters, itself and my monsters linked with it cannot be destroyed by battle or card effects!" The bullet impacted on Falconet Fafnir's chest, but when the smoke cleared, the dragon was unharmed.

"But FPS Dragon was destroyed!" Revolver said. "And when FPS Dragon is sent from the field to the Graveyard, its effect activates! One of your monsters loses attack points equal to its Level, Rank, or Link Rating times 100. I target Falconet Fafnir!"

Cyspirit Falconet Fafnir ATK 3700→3300

Morningstar narrowed his eyes. "Falconet Fafnir continues its attack on Furious Dragon! Andvari Fire!" The cannons and the dragon's maw fired golden flames at the Fusion Monster.

"Synthborrel Dragon's effect activates!" Revolver declared. "When my Fusion Monster would be destroyed, I can banish Synthborrel from my Graveyard instead!" The flames struck Furious Dragon and made it cry out in pain, but it remained standing. Revolver grimaced as a minor shockwave hit him.

Revolver: 700→400 LP

Morningstar smirked. "Falconet Fafnir's additional effect! When it points to at least two monsters, it can make two attacks during each Battle Phase!" Revolver's eyes widened in shock. "Attack Furious Dragon again! Andvari Fire!" More golden flames engulfed Furious Dragon, only this time the dragon exploded, and the shockwave knocked Revolver back, forcing him to a knee.

Revolver: 400→100 LP

"They got him down to 100 Life Points!" Ai cheered.

"Well done, partner," Cypher said with his arms crossed. "We can win on the next turn."

"Yes… We just need to survive his turn. I end my turn. During the End Phase, Coder's effect ends, so Falconet Fafnir is no longer treated as pointing to any monsters."

Revolver stood up and smiled. "You really are a stubborn opponent. To push me this far…"

"The same could be said about you, Revolver."

Revolver's smile widened briefly before it turned into a frown. "And yet… this level of force is not enough, is it? To overcome Zahhak and our other enemies, you will need far more than this."

"…I know," Morningstar muttered, once again seeing a man in black and red armor.

"Can you keep up with me?"

"Then it is clear what I must do." Revolver's eyes narrowed. "I will push you even further than this! My turn! Draw! I activate Boot Sector Launch's effect! Resurrect, Silverrokket Dragon!" The silver dragon with violet holographic wings reappeared in Defense Position.

Silverrokket Dragon ATK 1900→2200 DEF 100→400 LVL: 4

"I activate the effect of Draconian Reincarnation Cycle! I banish the Level 6 Checksum Dragon to place a counter on it and Special Summon Metalrokket Dragon from my Deck!" A blue mechanical dragon with green holographic wings appeared in Attack Position.

Draconian Reincarnation Cycle: 1 C→2 C

Metalrokket Dragon ATK 1700→2000 DEF 1400→1700 LVL: 4

"Is Revolver planning to Link Summon again?" Soulburner wondered.

"I'm not sure," Cassiel answered.

Playmaker frowned. "Those monsters… They are both Level 4."

"Hey, can it be?" Ai wondered.

"I use Level 4 Metalrokket Dragon and Silverroket Dragon to build the Overlay Network!" Revolver proclaimed as he raised his Duel Disk. A bolt of green lightning shot out of it and turned the world around them into a void. The Xyz cross appeared beneath the two dragons, who turned into data and entered the circles on the cross. The ends of the cross shot beams of light upward, creating a spiraling galaxy that exploded with power.

"When two soaring, heroic roars merge into thunder, it opens the eternal door and shows its power! Xyz Summon! Appear! Rank 4! Borreload eXcharge Dragon!" A new black-and-gray armored dragon emerged from the portal. This one had red holographic wings attached to two massive thrusters and a red "X" across the cylinder in its chest. Two red horns rose upward from the sides of the dragon's gray head as it roared from the Extra Monster Zone in Attack Position, two orange lights circling behind it.

Borreload eXcharge Dragon ATK 3000 DEF 2500 RNK: 4 OU: 2

"And now he has Xyz Summoning too?" Soulburner wondered.

"Synchro Summoning, Fusion Summoning, and now Xyz Summoning," Playmaker said.

"He always does the unexpected," Ai offered.

"Revolver was right," Cypher said. "His dueling is a lot like the Cydemons; raw power and destruction. Though the Cydemons thankfully don't have Fusion, Synchro, or Xyz Summoning… as far as I know." Morningstar narrowed his eyes.

"eXcharge Dragon's effect activates!" Revolver declared. "Anti-Enemy eXcharge! By using one Overlay Unit, one monster on the field loses 600 attack and defense points. I target Falconet Fafnir!" One of the circling lights broke apart as eXcharge Dragon roared.

Cyspirit Falconet Fafnir ATK 3300→2700

"In addition, I can Special Summon a 'Borrel' monster from my Graveyard! Resurrect, Borreload Dragon!" The original Borreload Dragon reappeared and roared.

Borreload Dragon ATK 3000 LINK-4 ←↙↘→

"It's back," Cypher said in an annoyed tone.

"I noticed," Morningstar responded in the same tone.

"I activate the effect of FPS Dragon in the Graveyard! By banishing it, one of your monsters loses attack points equal to its Level, Rank, or Link Rating times 100. I target Falconet Fafnir!"

Cyspirit Falconet Fafnir ATK 2700→2300

Morningstar narrowed his eyes. "If Revolver uses Borreload Dragon's effect-!"

"Then an attack will take our Life Points to 0," Cypher finished, his own eyes narrowing.

"Battle!" Revolver declared. "eXcharge Dragon attacks Falconet Fafnir! Borreload Dragon's effect activates! Falconet Fafnir loses 500 attack points, and you cannot activate cards or effects in response to this effect. Anti-Enemy Varrett!"

Cyspirit Falconet Fafnir ATK 2300→1800

"If this attack hits, Morningstar will lose!" Ai panicked.

Morningstar grit his teeth and took the card from his hand. "I activate the effect of Cyspirit Officer in my hand!" The card showed a skeleton in a policeman's uniform, a single red eye glowing underneath its officer's cap. "Since my 'Cyspirit' monster was attacked, I can discard Cyspirit Officer to increase my monster's attack points by 800 and prevent its destruction from this battle!"

Cyspirit Falconet Fafnir ATK 1800→2600

"But its attack points are still less than eXcharge Dragon!" Revolver reminded him. "Go! Varrel Cannon of Supremacy!" eXcharge Dragon's wings turned forward and broke open, revealing two cannon barrels and several smaller lasers. The dragon's mouth opened, revealing two gun barrels. All of the cannons charged and then fired blue lasers at Falconet Fafnir. The dragon fired back with golden fire, only for said fire to be overwhelmed. Multiple lasers struck Falconet Fafnir, making it cry out in pain. The shockwaves of the blast hit Morningstar, knocking him back a step.

Morningstar: 850→450 LP

"Even if you survive the attack, you'll wish your monster didn't survive the battle!" Revolver said. "The turn I use eXcharge Dragon's effect, I cannot attack directly. But I can attack your monster!" Morningstar's eyes widened in shock. Oops. "Borreload Dragon attacks Falconet Fafnir! Varrel Cannon of Lightning!" A gun barrel extended from the dragon's mouth and it fired a beam of energy at Falconet Fafnir. The beam tore through the dragon, making it explode. Morningstar cried out as he was hit by a powerful shockwave, knocking him back onto the destroyed altar. Playmaker, Soulburner, Cassiel, Ai, and Flame all cried out as well as the shockwave rolled throughout the church, knocking over the pews and shattering a few of the windows. When the shockwave subsided, Morningstar groaned from his position atop the altar.

Morningstar: 450→50 LP

"I Set one card," Revolver said. "I end my turn. During the End Phase, since Borreload Dragon was Special Summoned by eXcharge Dragon's effect, it is banished." The large dragon warped away, leaving its armored twin alone.

Morningstar moaned as he tried to lift his head. Everything hurt. He hadn't felt this bad since… since his duel with Terminus atop the Tower.

"Hey, stay awake partner!" Cypher urged. "I know it hurts, but we have a duel to win, right?"

The former bounty hunter groaned and shifted his right hand.

Cassiel grit her teeth. She hated seeing Morningstar like this. Weak and wounded. More than that, she knew how much Morningstar himself hated being like that. To lose a duel was one thing, but to be so vulnerable… It was a feeling that the Lost Incident made them never want to feel again.

But perhaps that's the point of this, she thought as she glanced at Revolver. Perhaps that is why Revolver really challenged him to this duel; because Zahhak made him feel vulnerable. And if Morningstar wants to overcome that feeling, if he wants to overcome Zahhak, then he needs to face that feeling from someone who can genuinely inflict it. Not a friend like Playmaker, but an enemy like Revolver.

"Get up, Morningstar!" the leader of the Knights of Hanoi shouted, drawing the former bounty hunter's attention. "Are you so weak that you can't withstand this? If you can't, then Zahhak will walk all over you again!" Morningstar flinched at those words. "Do you not have a reason to stand up? A reason to become stronger? A reason to win?" Revolver's eyes narrowed. "You have people on the other side you need to return to, don't you? If you won't stand up for your own sake, then stand up for theirs!"

Morningstar's eyes widened as he grit his teeth and clenched his fists. Yes… he did have others. He looked over at Cassiel, who was watching him with concern. Playmaker and Soulburner, who stared with worry in their eyes. He thought of Cam and Kusanagi, watching this in the real world.

He had plenty of reasons to stand up again.

Morningstar grit his teeth and pushed himself off of the altar until he was kneeling on the ground. With a shout, he punched the ground as hard as he could, breaking the stone floor.

Cypher gasped. "Morningstar?!"

The former bounty hunter pulled his hand back. He'd broken the fabric of his jumpsuit and the skin of his knuckles. But the shock of pain and adrenaline cleared his head. He growled as he pushed himself to his feet.

"You're right, Revolver," he said. "I have plenty of reasons to stand up." His eyes narrowed. "And if I'm going to overcome Zahhak… then I can't afford to lose to you!" He placed his hand on his Duel Disk. "My turn! Draw!" He drew, silver light trailing his card.

"Morningstar has 50 Life Points," Playmaker said. "Revolver has 100."

"Which means this draw will determine the outcome of the duel," Ai said.

Morningstar looked at his card. And smiled. "I activate the Spell Card: Exaltation of the Cyspirits!" The card showed a grand throne room with Cyspirit Quixotic Queen sitting on a raised throne with Cyspirit Kooky Kommandant standing on one side and Cyspirit Pied Pikeman standing on the other. Cyspirits Cosmic Crusader and Savage Shogun kneeled in front of the throne. "Since I control no cards, I can target a 'Cyspirit' Link Monster in my Graveyard and draw cards equal to that monster's Link Rating. But for the rest of the turn, I cannot add cards from my Deck to my hand, nor can I Special Summon monsters with the same original name as the targeted monster. I target the Link-4 Falconet Fafnir to draw four cards!"

"Woo!" Ai cheered. "Four cards! He's in business!"

"But those will be his only four cards," Playmaker reminded him. "If he can't make those cards work…"

"Then it's game over," Soulburner finished morosely.

"I draw!" Morningstar drew again, his hand trailing silver light. He fanned out the four cards and smirked. Just what he needed. "I activate the Field Spell Card: Cyspirit Monastery! While this card is on the field, all my 'Cyspirit' Link Monsters gain 500 attack points. I activate Cyspirit Monastery's effect! Since I control no monsters, I can Special Summon a 'Cyspirit' Link Monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated. Resurrect, Idealistic Idol!" The skeleton in an indigo dress reappeared with a twirl before spreading her wings.

Cyspirit Idealistic Idol ATK 1500→2000 LINK-2 ←↑

"I summon Cyspirit Lancer!" A skeleton warrior in white armor appeared, wielding a gray lance and shield.

Cyspirit Lancer ATK 1800 DEF 0 LVL: 4

"Lancer's effect! All 'Cyspirit' monsters gain 300 attack points! Digital Charge!"

Cyspirit Idealistic Idol ATK 2000→2300

Cyspirit Lancer ATK 1800→2100

"Since I control a 'Cyspirit' monster, I can Special Summon Cyspirit Jaeger!" A skeleton soldier in a green coat over white shirt and pants appeared in Attack Position. The coat was lined with red and gold buttons, while it wore a lopsided green beret over its head and held a musket in its hands.

Cyspirit Jaeger ATK 1700→2000 DEF 900 LVL: 4

"Appear, the circuit between light and darkness! The summoning conditions are two or more 'Cyspirit' monsters. I set Jaeger, Lancer, and Link-2 Idealistic Idol in the Link Markers!" The monsters entered the left, top-left, top-right, and right arrows. "Let the galaxy's rage turn into hope and transcend my limitations! Link Summon! Appear! Link-4! Cyspirit Nebulous Nova!"

A black dragon skeleton emerged from the portal and was covered by skin. Its body was white with black lines running over, and its chest, legs, and arms were covered by silver armor that exposed its calves, hands, and feet. Four metal spines shot out of its back, and a single black horn rose from its head. Nebulous red and blue eyes gleamed as the dragon roared from the Extra Monster Zone.

Cyspirit Nebulous Nova ATK 2500→3000 LINK-4 ←↖↗→

Playmaker's eyes widened. "That's the Link Monster he gained in our duel!"

"And its effects are really powerful!" Ai cheered. Then his eyes drooped. "But it requires pointing to a monster. And it doesn't point to any."

"That's true," Cypher admitted. Then his eyes crinkled. "Were it not for the fact that if we banished Cyspirit Officer from the Graveyard, Nebulous Nova could be treated as pointing to a number of monsters equal to its Link Rating."

Everyone else's eyes, sans Morningstar's, widened at that revelation. Revolver grit his teeth. "That won't make a difference! Trap activate! Revolving Borrel!" The card showed the interior of a hangar, with Borreload Dragon standing in the middle of a rotating platform. Borrelguard Dragon, Borrelsword Dragon, Borreload Furious Dragon, Borreload Savage Dragon, and Borreload eXcharge Dragon stood around it in different parts of the hangar. "I Tribute a 'Borrel' monster I control to Special Summon a 'Borrel' monster that is either banished or in my Graveyard. I Tribute Borreload eXcharge Dragon to Special Summon Borreload Dragon!" The Xyz Monster disintegrated as the original Borreload Dragon reappeared and roared.

Borreload Dragon ATK 3000 LINK-4 ←↙↘→

"He brought Borreload back?" Ai said in surprise.

"Then, Revolving Borrel increases Borreload Dragon's attack points by the Tributed eXcharge Dragon's original attack points until the end of the turn!"

Borreload Dragon ATK 3000→6000

"6000 attack points?!" Soulburner gasped.

"It's impressive, but it won't matter," Playmaker said. "Nebulous Nova can banish a 'Cyspirit' Link Monster from the Graveyard and gain attack points equal to its Link Rating times 1000 until Morningstar's next Standby Phase."

"Falconet Fafnir is still in his Graveyard," Cassiel said. "Which means he can raise Nebulous Nova's attack points to 7000 easily."

"Revolver only has 100 Life Points left," Flame said. "Even if Revolver uses Borreload Dragon's effect, it won't be enough."

"It doesn't matter what Revolver does," Cypher said. "We've won."

"Not yet!" Revolver declared. "Draconian Reincarnation Cycle's effect activates! I place a counter on it and banish Level 4 Metalrokket Dragon from my Graveyard to Special Summon Magnarokket Dragon!" The blue metal dragon with a laser attached to its head appeared in Defense Position.

Draconian Reincarnation Cycle: 2 C→3 C

Magnarokket Dragon ATK 1800→2100 DEF 1200→1500 LVL: 4

"Since Draconian Reincarnation Cycle has three counters on it, its effect destroys itself." The Continuous Trap Card shattered. "Borreload Dragon's effect activates! I reduce Magnarokket Dragon's attack and defense points by 500! At this point, Magnarokket Dragon's effect activates! Since it was targeted for a Link Monster's effect, it is destroyed!" Magnarokket Dragon disintegrated and turned into a golden orb that entered Borreload Dragon's chest cylinder. "I can now send one of your monsters to the Graveyard! I send Nebulous Nova to the Graveyard!"

"No!" Ai whined as Borreload Dragon extended its gun barrel. "Morningstar was so close!"

"It's alright, Ai," Cypher said calmly, drawing everyone's attention. "This isn't the end for us."

"Indeed," Morningstar agreed. "We're just getting started! Since I used Cyspirit Jaeger to Link Summon Nebulous Nova, it is unaffected by your monster effects!" Revolver's eyes widened. Borreload Dragon fired a bullet at Nebulous Nova, but the other dragon just held up one of its hands and blocked the shot, letting it explode harmlessly against its hand.

Revolver grit his teeth. "You may have survived that, but I have one last move to make! I activate the effect of Revolving Borrel in my Graveyard! Since my 'Rokket' monster was destroyed, I can banish Revolving Borrel to increase Borreload Dragon's attack points by my destroyed Magnarokket Dragon's original attack points! Magnarokket Dragon had 1800 attack points!"

Borreload Dragon ATK 6000→7800

Cassiel frowned. "With that effect, even if Morningstar uses Officer's and Nebulous Nova's effects, it won't be strong enough to take out Borreload Dragon."

"They're at an impasse right now," Playmaker said. "Morningstar can use Officer's and Nebulous Nova's effects to raise Nebulous Nova's attack points to 7000, but the former's effect will only last until the end of the turn. If Revolver can bring out a new 'Rokket' monster…"

"Then Morningstar can't win," Ai said sadly.

"Ai, you silly AI," Cypher said amusedly. "Weren't you paying attention before?"

"Huh?"

"My partner told all of you," Cypher's eyes narrowed, "we're just getting started!"

"That's right," Morningstar confirmed as he pointed to his monster. "Battle! Nebulous Nova attacks Borreload Dragon!"

"What?!" The onlookers gasped while Revolver's eyes widened. Nebulous Nova roared as the spines on its back produced white holographic wings. The wings shifted to various shades of red.

"He's not using Officer's or Nebulous Nova's effects?!" Flame said in surprise.

"Are you trying to self-destruct, Morningstar?" Soulburner wondered.

Nebulous Nova brought its right fist forward, meeting one of Borreload Dragon's. A shockwave rang out, shattering several windows. The two monsters struggled to push each other back.

"I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card: Unyielding Cyspirits!" Morningstar declared. The picture showed Rapid Revolutionary holding up an enlarged rifle, firing a shot against a beam of energy and pushing it back. "When our monsters battle, Unyielding Cyspirits changes their attack points to their original attack points!" His eyes narrowed. "And then their attack points are switched!"

"What?!" Revolver's eyes widened. The two dragons pulled back and then their opposite fists met, creating another shockwave that wrecked even more windows and sent a few pews flying.

Borreload Dragon ATK 7800→3000→2500

Cyspirit Nebulous Nova ATK 2500→3000

The two dragons broke apart and opened their maws. Borreload Dragon fired golden energy while Nebulous Nova let loose with a stream of red energy. The two beams met in the middle of the church.

Revolver stared at the two dragons. Then he smiled. "Well done, Morningstar."

Shockwaves from the converging beams lashed out, throwing even more debris around. A piece of rock came up and struck Revolver's visor, cracking it again. The crack spread, tearing apart the glass. The red beam broke through the golden stream and continued on. It consumed Borreload Dragon and continued on to the monster's master as he closed his eyes.

Revolver: 100→0 LP

---

The church has become a ruin. The stone floor is cracked and splintered. The pews lay in pieces along the floor and walls. The windows, once beauties of stained-glass, lay shattered. The altar that was the pride of the church is smashed to pieces, the cross atop it lopsided, and the goblet and tray dented on the ground.

At one end, closer to the door, a youth kneels on one knee. At the other end, in front of the altar, a second youth has been brought to his hands and knees. Both breathe heavily, covered in bruises, the exhaustion of what they had done finally catching up to them. One has the glass of his visor almost completely broken. The other has the knuckles of his right hand torn and bloodied.

The spectators stand to the side, in awe of what they just witnessed. "W-Wow," Ai said.

"Amazing," Soulburner breathed.

Cassiel smiled. "He won. Morningstar won!"

A small smile crossed Playmaker's own face. "Yes. He did."

The three humans run up to their friend who is still gasping for air. "Morningstar," Cassiel whispers, taking his right side. She frowns on seeing his hand but says nothing and takes his right arm. Soulburner takes the left arm. As gently as possible, they help him to his feet.

"I…" Morningstar keeps panting before he finally gets his breathing under control. "I'm… I'm okay."

He lightly frees his arms from his friends and takes a step forward. He stumbles and Cassiel and Soulburner reach out, but he holds up one hand to stop them. He takes another unsteady step forward and then another before stopping and leaning over, placing his hands on his knees.

"That… That was intense," Morningstar said.

"You said it partner," Cypher said. "Still… we won."

"Yes. You did."

The four humans turn to look at Revolver as he approaches them. His avatar is as tattered as Morningstar's is, the glass in his visor completely shattered. Only the band itself remains.

"…I fought with everything I had," he said. "I even used tricks I had planned to save for the Light Ignis. But you won fair and square. Which leaves only one question." His eyes narrowed as he frowned. "Was this enough for you to defeat Zahhak?"

…

Morningstar remembered the armored man's words. The words that kept haunting him. "Can you keep up with me?" He found he kept asking himself that question. And if he had to answer that question based off this duel…

"…No," he answered softly. "It isn't enough. It would be enough for him to take me seriously, perhaps to go all out against me. But it wouldn't be enough to defeat him."

"Eh?!" Ai gasped. "Are you serious? That was one of the closest duels I've ever seen, and you think that wasn't enough for Zahhak?!"

"…You're right," Revolver said. "Zahhak's full strength is unknown. But he holds a power that no one else holds. No one… save you and Cassiel."

The two mentioned duelists frown. They know of what he speaks. The two-thirds of the Cyberse Trinity they possess. Two of the Link-5 monsters created by Cypher and Dr. Hitomu Hirai eight years ago.

Cyspirit Superior Seraphim. Cyseraph Divine Gabriel.

Two of three monsters created to rival the Gods.

And the last was in Zahhak's possession.

"…Cypher." Morningstar turned to the Silver Ignis. His partner. "I think it's time. We need to know everything about the Cydemons. Everything you know. Even if Zahhak has cards you didn't make, you still know more than anyone else. So tell us about them."

"…I suppose the rest of you will need to know," Cypher admitted. "In case Morningstar and I fail to defeat Zahhak, you will all need to know the Cydemons' true power." His eyes narrowed. "Listen very carefully. Cydevil Prideful Helel is the Deck's strongest Link-4 monster. But the Link-5 monster is even stronger. It's name is Cydevil Sinful Satanael, and it can…"

---

Morningstar vs. Revolver

This Duel is conducted as a Master Duel.

Turn 1: Revolver

Revolver Normal Summons Gateway Dragon (1600/1400/4). Revolver activates Gateway Dragon's effect to Special Summon 1 Level 4 or lower Dragon monster from his hand. He Special Summons Rokket Synchron (300/0/1) in Attack Position. Revolver uses Rokket Synchron to Link Summon Striker Dragon (1000/1/←) to the right Extra Monster Zone. As Striker Dragon was Link Summoned, Revolver can add Boot Sector Launch from his Deck to his hand. Revolver activates the Field Spell Card Boot Sector Launch, which increases "Rokket" monsters' ATK/DEF by 300. Revolver activates the effect of Boot Sector Launch to Special Summon up to 2 "Rokket" monsters with different names from his hand in Defense Position. He Special Summons Autorokket Dragon (1600→1900/1000→1300/3) and Magnarokket Dragon (1800→2100/1200→1500/4). As a Dark Dragon monster was Special Summoned to his field, Revolver Special Summons Noctovision Dragon (0/2800/7) in Defense Position. Revolver activates Striker Dragon's effect, targeting Autorokket Dragon on his field and Rokket Synchron in his GY. Autorokket Dragon is destroyed, and Rokket Synchron is added to his hand. Revolver uses Gateway Dragon, Magnarokket Dragon, Noctovision Dragon, and Striker Dragon to Link Summon Borreload Dragon (3000/4/←↙↘→) to the right Extra Monster Zone. As Noctovision Dragon was sent to the GY as Link Material, Revolver draws 1 card. Revolver ends his turn. During the End Phase, as Autorokket Dragon is in the GY because it was destroyed and sent there this turn, Revolver can Special Summon 1 different "Rokket" monster from his Deck. He Special Summons Magnarokket Dragon (1800→2100/1200→1500/4) in Defense Position.

Turn 2: Morningstar

Morningstar draws. As Revolver controls a monster and he doesn't, Morningstar Special Summons Cyspirit Swordsman (1200/900/3) in Attack Position via its effect. As Swordsman was Special Summoned by its effect, Morningstar can add 1 "Cyspirit" monster from his Deck to his hand. He adds Cyspirit Kid to his hand. Morningstar Normal Summons Cyspirit Kid (300/200/1). Morningstar uses Kid to Link Summon Cyspirit Cacophonic Caller (500/1/↓) to the Extra Monster Zone. As Kid was used to Link Summon a "Cyspirit" Link Monster, Morningstar can target and destroy 1 face-up card Revolver controls. He targets Magnarokket Dragon, but Revolver chains Borreload Dragon's effect, targeting Magnarokket Dragon to reduce its ATK/DEF by 500. As it was targeted by a Link Monster's effect, Magnarokket Dragon's effect activates, destroying itself and sending 1 monster on the field to the GY. Revolver sends Cacophonic Caller to the GY. Morningstar activates the Spell Card Cyspirit Emblem, which lets him send 1 "Cyspirit" monster from his Deck to the GY and Special Summon 1 "Cyspirit" monster with the same Level from his Deck in Attack Position. He sends Level 5 Cyspirit Wanderer to the GY and Special Summons Cyspirit Prisoner (1600/2100/5). Morningstar uses Prisoner and Swordsman to Link Summon Cyspirit Jubilant Jester (1800/2/↙↘) to the Extra Monster Zone. As Prisoner was used to Link Summon a "Cyspirit" Link Monster, Morningstar can add 1 "Cyspirit" card from his Deck to his hand. He adds Cyspirit Mausoleum to his hand. Morningstar activates the Field Spell Card Cyspirit Mausoleum. While Cyspirit Mausoleum is on the field, Morningstar's linked "Cyspirit" monsters are unaffected by Revolver's monster effects and the possession of Morningstar's "Cyspirit" monsters cannot switch. Morningstar activates the effect of Cyspirit Wanderer in his GY, shuffling it into his Deck to Special Summon 1 "Cyspirit" Link Monster from his GY, but it cannot attack. He Special Summons Cacophonic Caller (500/1/↓) to Jubilant Jester's bottom-right Link Marker. As the Link Summoned Jubilant Jester points to a monster, all "Cyspirit" monsters Morningstar controls gain 400 ATK/DEF (Cacophonic Caller: 500→900) (Jubilant Jester: 1800→2200). Morningstar uses Cacophonic Caller to Link Summon Cyspirit Kooky Kommandant (1000→1400/1/↘) to Jubilant Jester's bottom-right Link Marker. As Morningstar's "Cyspirit" monster was sent to the GY as Link Material, Cyspirit Mausoleum's effect activates, and he draws 1 card. As it is linked to a Cyberse Link Monster, Morningstar activates Kooky Kommandant's effect, Tributing it to Special Summon 1 Level 4 or lower "Cyspirit" monster from his GY in Attack Position with its effects negated, then add 1 Level 8 or lower "Cyspirit" monster and 1 "Cyspirit" Spell Card from his Deck to his hand. Morningstar Special Summons Swordsman (1200→1600/900→1300/3) to Jubilant Jester's bottom-left Link Marker in Attack Position and adds Cyspirit Catastrophe Crocodile and Cyspirit Ritual to his hand. Morningstar activates the Ritual Spell Card Cyspirit Ritual, Tributing Level 5 Cyspirit Firefighter in his hand to Ritual Summon Cyspirit Catastrophe Crocodile (1800→2200/900→1300/5) in Attack Position to Jubilant Jester's bottom-right Link Marker. As Catastrophe Crocodile was Ritual Summoned, Morningstar can add 1 "Cyspirit" Spell Card from his GY to his hand. He adds Cyspirit Ritual to his hand. Morningstar activates the Ritual Spell Card Cyspirit Ritual, Tributing Level 5 Catastrophe Crocodile and Level 3 Swordsman on his field to Ritual Summon Cyspirit Digital Dragoon (2500→2900/2000→2400/8) to Jubilant Jester's bottom-right Link Marker in Attack Position. Morningstar activates Cyspirit Mausoleum's effect, targeting Jubilant Jester and treating it as pointing to a number of monsters equal to its Link Rating until his next Standby Phase.

Digital Dragoon attacks Borreload Dragon. As it is battling a Link Monster and a monster in the Extra Monster Zone, Morningstar activates Digital Dragoon's effect to make Borreload Dragon's ATK 0 and negate its effects until the End Phase (Borreload Dragon: 3000→0). Borreload Dragon is destroyed (Revolver: 4000→1100 LP). Jubilant Jester attacks Revolver directly. As Morningstar's monster declared a direct attack and he took battle damage this turn, Revolver Special Summons Checksum Dragon (400/2400/6) in Attack Position, and Revolver gains LP equal to half its DEF (Revolver: 1100→2300 LP). A replay occurs and Jubilant Jester attacks Checksum Dragon, but Checksum Dragon can't be destroyed by battle the turn it is Special Summoned (Revolver: 2300→500 LP). Morningstar Sets 1 card. He ends his turn. During the End Phase, as Magnarokket Dragon is in the GY because it was destroyed this turn, its effect activates, and Revolver can Special Summon a different "Rokket" monster from his Deck. He Special Summons Silverrokket Dragon (1900→2200/100→400/4) in Attack Position.

Turn 3: Revolver

Revolver draws. He activates the Quick-Play Spell Card Squib Draw, targeting and destroying Silverrokket Dragon to draw 2 cards. As he controls fewer monsters than Morningstar, Revolver activates the effect of Boot Sector Launch to Special Summon "Rokket" monsters from his GY in Defense Position, up to the difference. He Special Summons Magnarokket Dragon (1800→2100/1200→1500/4). Revolver activates the Quick-Play Spell Card Quick Launch, which lets him Special Summon 1 "Rokket" monster from his Deck, but it will be destroyed during the End Phase. He Special Summons Metalrokket Dragon (1700→2000/1400→1700/4) in Attack Position. Revolver uses Magnarokket Dragon and Metalrokket Dragon to Link Summon Booster Dragon (1900/2/↙↘) to the Extra Monster Zone. As there are 2 Link Monsters with the same Link Rating in the Extra Monster Zones, Revolver activates the Spell Card Arrow Charge, which lets him draw 2 cards and show them, but if they are in Revolver's hand during the End Phase, they are banished. Revolver draws and reveals Borrel Cooldown and Link Burst. Revolver activates the Spell Card Link Burst, which lets him target and destroy 1 Link Monster he controls and 1 monster Morningstar controls, then draw 1 card. He targets Booster Dragon and Digital Dragoon. As Digital Dragoon would be destroyed Morningstar activates the effect it gained from Catastrophe Crocodile to banish 1 "Cyspirit" monster from his GY instead. He banishes Cyspirit Kid. Booster Dragon is destroyed, and Revolver draws. As the Link Summoned Booster Dragon was destroyed by battle or card effect and sent to the GY, Revolver can Special Summon 1 other Dragon monster from his GY. He Special Summons Borreload Dragon (3000/4/←↙↘→). Revolver Normal Summons Rokket Synchron (300→600/0→300/1). As Rokket Synchron was Normal Summoned, Revolver can Special Summon 1 Level 5 or higher Dark Dragon monster from his GY in Defense Position with its effects negated. He Special Summons Noctovision Dragon (0/2800/7) in Attack Position. Revolver tunes Level 1 Rokket Synchron to Level 7 Noctovision Dragon to Synchro Summon Borreload Savage Dragon (3000/2500/8) to Borreload Dragon's right Link Marker in Attack Position. As Borreload Savage Dragon was Synchro Summoned, Revolver can equip 1 Link Monster in his GY to it, then place Borrel Counters on it equal to that monster's Link Rating and increase its ATK equal to half the equipped monster's ATK. He equips Booster Dragon to Borreload Savage Dragon (Borreload Savage Dragon: 0 BC→2 BC/3000→3950).

Borreload Dragon attacks and destroys Jubilant Jester (Morningstar: 4000→3200 LP) (Digital Dragoon: 2900→2500/2400→2000). Borreload Savage Dragon attacks Digital Dragoon. Revolver activates Borreload Dragon's effect, targeting Digital Dragoon and reducing its ATK/DEF by 500 (Digital Dragoon: 2500→2000/2000→1500). The attack continues and Digital Dragoon is destroyed (Morningstar: 3200→1250 LP). As Morningstar's "Cyspirit" Ritual Monster was destroyed by battle and sent to the GY, Morningstar activates the effect of Cyspirit Ritual in his GY, banishing it and Digital Dragoon to Special Summon 1 Link-3 or lower "Cyspirit" Link Monster from his Extra Deck and treating it as a Link Summon. As Morningstar activated an effect, Revolver activates Borreload Savage Dragon's effect, removing 1 Borrel Counter (Borreload Savage Dragon: 2 BC→1 BC) to negate the activation. Checksum Dragon attacks Morningstar directly (Morningstar: 1250→850 LP). As Revolver controls a "Borrel" monster, he activates the Spell Card Borrel Cooldown, which lets him Tribute 1 monster and gain LP equal to its ATK or DEF, whichever is higher. He Tributes Checksum Dragon and gains LP equal to its DEF (Revolver: 500→2900 LP). Revolver Sets 1 card. He ends his turn. During the End Phase, as Silverrokket Dragon is in the GY because it was destroyed and sent there this turn, its effect activates, and Revolver Special Summons Anesthrokket Dragon (0→300/2200→2500/1) in Defense Position.

Turn 4: Morningstar

Morningstar draws. He activates the effect of Cyspirit Emblem in his GY, banishing it and Cyspirit Firefighter from his GY to Special Summon 1 "Cyspirit" monster from his GY whose Level is equal to, or 1 less than or greater than, Firefighter's. As Morningstar activated a card effect, Revolver activates Borreload Savage Dragon's effect, removing 1 Borrel Counter (Borreload Savage Dragon: 1 BC→0 BC) to negate the activation of Cyspirit Emblem. Morningstar activates the Spell Card Cyspirit Gift, which lets him discard 1 "Cyspirit" card to draw 2 cards. He discards Cyspirit Samurai and draws. Morningstar Normal Summons Cyspirit Sorceress (1400/400/4). As Cyspirit Sorceress was Normal Summoned, Morningstar can Special Summon 1 Level 4 or lower "Cyspirit" monster from his GY in Attack Position. He Special Summons Cyspirit Swordsman (1200/900/3). As he controls 2 or more face-up "Cyspirit" monsters, Morningstar activates the Spell Card Cyspirit Reinforcements, which lets him Special Summon 1 Level 6 or lower "Cyspirit" monster from his GY in Attack Position. He Special Summons Cyspirit Prisoner (1600/2100/5). Morningstar activates the Spell Card Cyspirit Heart, which lets him Special Summon 1 "Cyspirit" monster with a Level from his GY in Defense Position with its effects negated. He Special Summons Catastrophe Crocodile (1800/900/5). Morningstar activates Sorceress's effect to declare a Level between 1 and 6 and make Sorceress that Level until the End Phase. He declares Level 5 (Sorceress: 4→5). Morningstar uses Catastrophe Crocodile, Prisoner, and Sorceress to Link Summon Cyspirit Winning Wrestler (2500/3/↙↓↘) to the right Extra Monster Zone. As Prisoner was sent to the GY to Link Summon a "Cyspirit" monster, Morningstar can add 1 "Cyspirit" card from his Deck to his hand. He adds Cyspirit Navigator to his hand. As a "Cyspirit" monster was sent to the GY as Link Material, Cyspirit Mausoleum's effect lets Morningstar draw 1 card. As the monster Special Summoned by Cyspirit Heart was sent to the GY as Link Material, Morningstar can draw 1 card. Revolver activates Borreload Dragon's effect, targeting Anesthrokket Dragon. As Anesthrokket Dragon was targeted by a Link Monster's effect, its effect activates, destroying it, then Revolver can negate the effects of 1 face-up monster and make it unable to attack. He targets Winning Wrestler for Anesthrokket Dragon's effect. As he controls a "Cyspirit" monster, Morningstar Special Summons Cyspirit Navigator (1300/1100/3) to Winning Wrestler's bottom-left Link Marker in Attack Position. Morningstar uses Navigator and Swordsman to Link Summon Cyspirit Idealistic Idol (1500/2/←↑) to Winning Wrestler's bottom Link Marker. Morningstar activates the effect of Cyspirit Samurai in his GY, Special Summoning it (1800/1000/4) to Idealistic Idol's left Link Marker in Attack Position, but it cannot attack this turn. Morningstar activates the Spell Card Cyspirit Fusion, which lets him Fusion Summon 1 "Cyspirit" Fusion Monster from his Extra Deck using monsters from his hand or field as material. He fuses Samurai with Idealistic Idol and Winning Wrestler to Fusion Summon Cyspirit Savage Shogun (2800/2300/8) to the right Extra Monster Zone in Attack Position. Morningstar activates the Equip Spell Card Cyspirit War Helm and equips it to Savage Shogun. Savage Shogun gains 800 ATK (Savage Shogun: 2800→3600), Revolver's monsters cannot attack or target "Cyspirit" monsters for effects except for Savage Shogun, and since Savage Shogun is a Fusion Monster, if it inflicts battle damage to Revolver, Morningstar can destroy 1 card in Revolver's Spell & Trap Zone and then draw 1 card.

Savage Shogun can attack a number of times equal to the number of Link Monsters used for its Fusion Summon. Savage Shogun attacks Borreload Dragon. Revolver activates his Set Trap Card Magic Cylinder, which lets him negate the attack and inflict damage to Morningstar equal to Savage Shogun's ATK. As Revolver activated a Trap Card while Morningstar controls a "Cyspirit" monster, Morningstar activates his Set Counter Trap Card Cyspirit Shutdown, negating the activation of Magic Cylinder and banishing it. Also, for the rest of the Duel, so long as Magic Cylinder is banished, Revolver cannot activate a card or effect with the same original name as Magic Cylinder. The attack continues and Borreload Dragon is destroyed (Revolver: 2900→2300 LP). As the Fusion Monster equipped with Cyspirit War Helm inflicted battle damage, Morningstar can destroy 1 card in Revolver's Spell & Trap Zone and then draw 1 card. He destroys Booster Dragon (Borreload Savage Dragon: 3950→3000 LP). As Revolver's "Borrel" monster left the field, he activates Borrel Cooldown's effect in his GY, banishing it to draw 1 card. Savage Shogun attacks Borreload Savage Dragon. As Savage Shogun is battling a monster Special Summoned from the Extra Deck, it gains 1000 ATK during damage calculation (Savage Shogun: 3600→4600). Borreload Savage Dragon is destroyed (Revolver: 2300→700 LP) (Savage Shogun: 4600→3600). Morningstar Sets 1 card. He ends his turn. During the End Phase, Morningstar activates the effect of Cyspirit Heart in his GY, banishing it to Special Summon 1 "Cyspirit" Link Monster from his GY to his field. He Special Summons Idealistic Idol (1500/2/←↑) to his center-right Main Monster Zone. During the End Phase, as Anesthrokket Dragon is in the GY because it was destroyed, Revolver can Special Summon 1 "Rokket" monster from his Deck. He Special Summons Shelrokket Dragon (1100→1400/2000→2300/2) in Defense Position.

Turn 5: Revolver

Revolver draws. Revolver activates the effect of Boot Sector Launch and Special Summons Metalrokket Dragon (1700→2000/1400→1700/4) from his GY in Defense Position. Revolver uses Metalrokket Dragon and Shelrokket Dragon to Link Summon Synthborrel Dragon (1200/2/↓↘) to the Extra Monster Zone. Revolver activates Synthborrel Dragon's effect to Special Summon 1 "Rokket" monster from his GY to its Link Marker with its effects negated. He Special Summons Autorokket Dragon (1600→1900/1000→1300/3) to Synthborrel Dragon's bottom-right Link Marker in Attack Position. Revolver activates Synthborrel Dragon's effect to Fusion Summon 1 Dragon Fusion Monster using monsters on his field as material. He fuses Autorokket Dragon and Synthborrel Dragon to Fusion Summon Borreload Furious Dragon (3000/2500/8) to the Extra Monster Zone in Attack Position. Revolver activates the Equip Spell Card Borrel Regenerator, which lets him Special Summon 1 "Rokket" monster from his GY and equip it with Borrel Regenerator, but that monster will be banished when it leaves the field. He Special Summons Anesthrokket Dragon (0→300/2200→2500/1) in Defense Position. Revolver activates Borreload Furious Dragon's effect, targeting Anesthrokket Dragon and Cyspirit Mausoleum. Both cards are destroyed. As Borrel Regenerator was sent to the GY because the monster it was equipped to was destroyed, Revolver can draw 1 card. Revolver activates the Quick-Play Spell Card Bayonet Punisher, which lets him apply certain effects in sequence depending on the card types of "Borrel" monsters on his field and in his GY, and since he controls a monster with 3000 or more ATK, Morningstar cannot activate cards or effects in response to Bayonet Punisher's activation. As Revolver controls a "Borrel" Fusion Monster, he can banish 1 monster Morningstar controls. He banishes Savage Shogun. As there is a "Borrel" Synchro Monster in his GY, Revolver can banish 3 random cards that are face-down in Morningstar's Extra Deck. He banishes Cyspirit Cosmic Crusader, Cyspirit Rapid Revolutionary, and Cyspirit Superior Seraphim. And since there is a "Borrel" Link Monster in Revolver's GY, he can banish up to 3 cards from Morningstar's GY. He banishes Cyspirit Catastrophe Crocodile, Cyspirit Prisoner, and Cyspirit Winning Wrestler.

Borreload Furious Dragon attacks Idealistic Idol. Morningstar activates his Set Trap Card World Legacy Awakens, which lets him Link Summon 1 Link Monster using monsters he controls as Link Material. Morningstar uses Idealistic Idol to Link Summon Cyspirit Youthful Yakuza (1000/1/↓) to the Extra Monster Zone. A replay occurs and Borreload Furious Dragon attacks and destroys Youthful Yakuza, but the turn Youthful Yakuza is Link Summoned, Morningstar takes no damage. As Youthful Yakuza was sent to the GY, Morningstar can add 1 "Cyspirit" monster from his GY to his hand and send 1 "Cyspirit" monster from his Deck to the GY. He adds Cyspirit Sorceress to his hand and sends Cyspirit Coder to his GY. Revolver Sets 1 card. He ends his turn.

Turn 6: Morningstar

Morningstar draws. He Normal Summons Cyspirit Sorceress (1400/400/4). As Sorceress was Normal Summoned, Morningstar can Special Summon 1 Level 4 or lower "Cyspirit" monster from his GY in Attack Position. He Special Summons Cyspirit Swordsman (1200/900/3). Morningstar activates the effect of Youthful Yakuza in his GY, banishing it to Special Summon 1 "Cyspirit" Link Monster from his GY with its effects negated. He Special Summons Idealistic Idol (1500/2/←↑). Morningstar uses Sorceress, Swordsman, and Link-2 Idealistic Idol to Link Summon Cyspirit Falconet Fafnir (3000/4/↖↑↓↗) to the Extra Monster Zone. Morningstar activates the effect of Cyspirit Coder in his GY, banishing it and targeting Falconet Fafnir to treat it as pointing to a number of monsters equal to its Link Rating until the end of the turn. As it is treated to pointing to at least 1 monster, Morningstar activates Falconet Fafnir's effect, targeting itself and increasing its ATK/DEF by 700 (Falconet Fafnir: 3000→3700).

Falconet Fafnir attacks Borreload Furious Dragon. Revolver activates his Set Continuous Trap Card Draconian Reincarnation Cycle, which lets him banish 1 Dragon monster from his GY to place 1 counter on it and Special Summon 1 Dragon monster from his Deck with an equal or lower Level. He banishes Level 3 Autorokket Dragon to Special Summon FPS Dragon (800/1200/3) in Attack Position (Draconian Reincarnation Cycle: 0 C→1 C). Revolver activates Borreload Furious Dragon's effect, targeting FPS Dragon and Falconet Fafnir. FPS Dragon is destroyed, but since Falconet Fafnir is treated as pointing to at least 3 monsters, it cannot be destroyed by battle or card effects. As FPS Dragon was sent from the field to the GY, its effect activates, and Revolver can target 1 monster Morningstar controls and reduce its ATK by its Level/Rank/Link Rating x 100. He targets Falconet Fafnir (Falconet Fafnir: 3700→3300). A replay occurs and Falconet Fafnir attacks Borreload Furious Dragon. As Falconet Fafnir is treated as pointing to 2 or more monsters, it can attack twice during each Battle Phase. The attack continues, but as Revolver's Fusion Monster would be destroyed, he banishes Synthborrel Dragon from his GY instead (Revolver: 700→400 LP). Falconet Fafnir attacks and destroys Borreload Furious Dragon (Revolver: 400→100 LP). Morningstar ends his turn, and Coder's effect ends.

Turn 7: Revolver

Revolver draws. As Morningstar controls more monsters, he activates Boot Sector Launch's effect to Special Summon Silverrokket Dragon (1900→2200/100→400/4) from his GY in Defense Position. Revolver activates the effect of Draconian Reincarnation Cycle, banishing the Level 6 Checksum Dragon to Special Summon Metalrokket Dragon (1700→2000/1400→1700/4) from his Deck in Attack Position (Draconian Reincarnation Cycle: 1 C→2 C). Revolver overlays his Level 4 Metalrokket Dragon and Silverrokket Dragon to Xyz Summon Borreload eXcharge Dragon (3000/2500/4) to the Extra Monster Zone in Attack Position. Revolver activates Borreload eXcharge Dragon's effect, detaching 1 Overlay Unit (Borreload eXcharge Dragon: 2 OU→1 OU) to lower the ATK/DEF of 1 face-up monster on the field by 600 and Special Summon 1 "Borrel" monster from his GY, but it will be banished during the End Phase, and Revolver cannot Special Summon other monsters or attack directly for the rest of the turn. He targets Falconet Fafnir (Falconet Fafnir: 3300→2700) and Special Summons Borreload Dragon (3000/4/←↙↘→). Revolver activates the effect of FPS Dragon in his GY, banishing it to target Falconet Fafnir and reduce its ATK by its Link Rating x 100 (Falconet Fafnir: 2700→2300).

Borreload eXcharge Dragon attacks Falconet Fafnir. Revolver activates the effect of Borreload Dragon, targeting Falconet Fafnir. Falconet Fafnir loses 500 ATK and Morningstar cannot activate cards or effects in response to this effect (Falconet Fafnir: 2300→1800). During damage calculation, as his "Cyspirit" monster was attacked, Morningstar activates the effect of Cyspirit Officer in his hand, discarding it to increase the ATK of his attacked "Cyspirit" monster by 800 and prevent its destruction via this battle (Falconet Fafnir: 1800→2600). The attack continues (Morningstar: 850→450 LP). Borreload Dragon attacks and destroys Falconet Fafnir (Morningstar: 450→50 LP). Revolver Sets 1 card. He ends his turn. During the End Phase, Borreload Dragon is banished due to Borreload eXcharge Dragon's effect.

Turn 8: Morningstar

Morningstar draws. As he controls no cards, he activates the Spell Card Exaltation of the Cyspirits, which lets him target 1 "Cyspirit" Link Monster in his GY. He can then draw cards equal to that monster's Link Rating, but he cannot Special Summon monsters with the same original name as that monster, nor can he add cards from his Deck to his hand for the rest of the turn. He targets the Link-4 Falconet Fafnir and draws 4 cards. Morningstar activates the Field Spell Card Cyspirit Monastery, which increases the ATK of his "Cyspirit" Link Monsters by 500. As he controls no monsters, he activates Cyspirit Monastery's effect to Special Summon 1 "Cyspirit" Link Monster from his GY with its effects negated. He Special Summons Idealistic Idol (1500→2000/2/←↑). Morningstar Normal Summons Cyspirit Lancer (1800/0/4). As Lancer is in Attack Position, all "Cyspirit" monsters gain 300 ATK (Idealistic Idol: 2000→2300) (Lancer: 1800→2100). As he controls a "Cyspirit" monster, Morningstar Special Summons Cyspirit Jaeger (1700→2000/900/4) in Attack Position. Morningstar uses Cyspirit Jaeger, Cyspirit Lancer, and Link-2 Cyspirit Idealistic Idol to Link Summon Cyspirit Nebulous Nova (2500→3000/4/←↖↗→) to the Extra Monster Zone. Revolver activates his Set Trap Card Revolving Borrel, which lets him Tribute 1 "Borrel" monster he controls to Special Summon 1 "Borrel" monster that is banished or in his GY. He Tributes Borreload eXcharge Dragon and Special Summons Borreload Dragon (3000/4/←↙↘→). The Special Summoned monster then gains ATK equal to the Tributed monster's original ATK until the end of the turn (Borreload Dragon: 3000→6000). Revolver activates the effect of Draconian Reincarnation Cycle, banishing Level 4 Metalrokket Dragon from his GY to Special Summon Magnarokket Dragon (1800→2100/1200→1500/4) in Defense Position (Draconian Reincarnation Cycle: 2 C→3 C). As Draconian Reincarnation Cycle has 3 counters on it, it is destroyed. Revolver activates Borreload Dragon's effect, targeting Magnarokket Dragon and decreasing its ATK/DEF by 500. As Magnarokket Dragon was targeted by a Link Monster's effect, its effect activates, destroying it, then Revolver can send 1 monster on the field to the GY. He attempts to send Nebulous Nova to the GY, but since Nebulous Nova was Link Summoned using Cyspirit Jaeger, it is unaffected by the effects of Revolver's monsters. As Revolver's "Rokket" monster was destroyed, Revolver activates the effect of Revolving Borrel in his GY, banishing it and targeting Borreload Dragon to increase its ATK the destroyed monster's original ATK until the end of the turn (Borreload Dragon: 6000→7800).

Nebulous Nova attacks Borreload Dragon. As his "Cyspirit" monster is battling Revolver's monster, Morningstar activates the Quick-Play Spell Card Unyielding Cyspirits. The battling monsters' ATK becomes equal to their original ATK, then their original ATK is switched (Borreload Dragon: 7800→3000→2500) (Nebulous Nova: 2500→3000). The attack continues and Borreload Dragon is destroyed (Revolver: 100→0 LP). Morningstar wins.

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Morningstar:

Cyspirit Catastrophe Crocodile (name credit to savagemaster1999)
Attribute: LIGHT Type: [Cyberse/Ritual/Effect] ATK 1800 DEF 900 Level: 5
You can Ritual Summon this card with "Cyspirit Ritual". When this card is Ritual Summoned: You can add 1 "Cyspirit" Spell Card from your GY to your hand. A "Cyspirit" monster that was Fusion, Synchro, Xyz, Ritual, or Link Summoned using this card on the field as material gains the following effect.
-Once per turn, if this card would be destroyed by battle or card effect, you can banish 1 "Cyspirit" monster from your GY instead.

Cyspirit Youthful Yakuza
Attribute: LIGHT Type: [Cyberse/Link/Effect] ATK 1000 LINK-1 ↓
1 "Cyspirit" Link Monster
The turn this card is Link Summoned: You take no damage. You can only activate 1 of the following effects of "Cyspirit Youthful Yakuza" per turn, and only once per turn.
-When this card is sent to the GY: You can add 1 "Cyspirit" monster from your GY to your hand and send 1 "Cyspirit" monster from your Deck to the GY.
-You can banish this card from your GY; Special Summon 1 "Cyspirit" Link Monster from your GY with its effects negated.

Cyspirit Falconet Fafnir (name credit to thirdegree101)
Attribute: LIGHT Type: [Cyberse/Link/Effect] ATK 3000 LINK-4 ↖↑↓↗
3+ "Cyspirit" monsters
This Link Summoned card gains these effects depending on the number of monsters it points to.
-1 or more: Once per turn (Quick Effect): You can target 1 monster on the field; it gains 700 ATK/DEF.
-2 or more: This card can make up to 2 attacks during each Battle Phase.
-3 or more: This card and your monsters this card points to cannot be destroyed by battle or card effects.
-4: Once per turn: You can send 1 card you control, except this card, to the GY; Special Summon 1 monster from the GY to your field, but it has its effects negated, also destroy it during the End Phase.

Cyspirit Officer
Attribute: LIGHT Type: [Cyberse/Effect] ATK 1500 DEF 800 Level: 4
During damage calculation, if your "Cyspirit" monster is attacked (Quick Effect): You can send this card from your hand to the GY; your monster gains 800 ATK and cannot be destroyed by this battle. You can banish this card from your GY and target 1 "Cyspirit" Link Monster you control; until the end of the turn, it is treated as pointing to a number of monsters equal to its Link Rating. You can only use 1 effect of "Cyspirit Officer" per turn, and only once per turn.

Cyspirit Jaeger
Attribute: LIGHT Type: [Cyberse/Effect] ATK 1700 DEF 900 Level: 4
If you control a "Cyspirit" monster: You can Special Summon this card (from your hand). You can only Special Summon "Cyspirit Jaeger" once per turn. A "Cyspirit" monster that was Fusion, Synchro, Xyz, Ritual, or Link Summoned using this card on the field as material gains the following effect.
-This card is unaffected by the effects of your opponent's Monster Cards.

Cyspirit Mausoleum Field Spell Card
Your linked "Cyspirit" monsters are unaffected by your opponent's monster effects, also possession of your "Cyspirit" monsters cannot switch. You can only use each of the following effects of "Cyspirit Mausoleum" once per turn.
-When your "Cyspirit" monster is sent to the GY as Link Material: You can draw 1 card.
-You can target 1 "Cyspirit" Link Monster you control; until your next Standby Phase, it is treated as pointing to a number of monsters equal to its Link Rating.

Cyspirit Heart Normal Spell Card
Target 1 "Cyspirit" monster with a Level in your GY; Special Summon it in Defense Position, buts its effects are negated. If the Special Summoned monster is sent to the GY as Link Material: Draw 1 card. During your End Phase: You can banish this card from your GY; Special Summon 1 "Cyspirit" Link Monster from your GY. You can only use each effect of "Cyspirit Heart" once per turn.

Cyspirit War Helm Equip Spell Card
Equip only to a "Cyspirit" monster. The equipped monster gains 800 ATK. Your opponent cannot target "Cyspirit" monsters you control for attacks, except the equipped monster, also your opponent cannot target "Cyspirit" monsters you control with card effects, except the equipped monster. This card gains the following effects, depending on the type of the equipped monster.
-Link: You can activate this effect; until the end of the turn, the equipped monster is treated as pointing to a number of monsters equal to its Link Rating.
-Fusion, Ritual, Synchro, Xyz: When the equipped monster inflicts battle damage to your opponent: You can target 1 card in your opponent's Spell & Trap Zone; destroy it, and if you do, draw 1 card.
You can only use each effect of "Cyspirit War Helm" once per turn.

Exaltation of the Cyspirits Normal Spell Card
If you control no cards: Target 1 "Cyspirit" Link Monster in your GY; for the rest of the turn, you cannot Special Summon monsters with the same original name as the targeted monster, also draw cards equal to its Link Rating. You cannot add cards from the Deck to your hand for the rest of this turn after this card resolves.

Unyielding Cyspirits Quick-Play Spell Card
When your "Cyspirit" monster battles your opponent's monster: change the ATK of both monsters to their original ATK, then switch the ATK of the battling monsters until the end of the Damage Step. You can only activate 1 "Unyielding Cyspirits" per turn.

Revolver:

Synthborrel Dragon
Attribute: DARK Type: [Dragon/Link/Effect] ATK 1200 LINK-2 ↓↘
2 DARK Dragon monsters
You can target 1 "Rokket" monster in your GY; Special Summon it to your zone this card points to with its effects negated, also you cannot Special Summon monsters for the rest of this turn, except Dragon monsters. During your Main Phase: You can Fusion Summon 1 Dragon Fusion Monster from your Extra Deck, using monsters from your field as Fusion Material. You can only use each effect of "Synthborrel Dragon" once per turn. If your Fusion Monster would be destroyed, you can banish this card from your GY instead.

FPS Dragon (name credit to OPFan37)
Attribute: DARK Type: [Dragon/Effect] ATK 800 DEF 1200 Level: 3
If this card is sent from the field to the GY (Quick Effect): You can target 1 face-up monster your opponent controls; it loses ATK equal to its Level/Rank/Link Rating x 100. You can banish this card from your GY and target 1 face-up monster your opponent controls; until the end of the turn, it loses ATK equal to its Level/Rank/Link Rating x 100. You can only use 1 effect of "FPS Dragon" per turn, and only once per turn.

Borrel Cooldown Normal Spell Card (name credit to SakushiRyu)
If you control a "Borrel" monster: Tribute 1 monster you control; gain LP equal to its ATK or DEF, whichever is higher. If your "Borrel" monster leaves the field (Quick Effect): You can banish this card from your GY; draw 1 card. You can only use 1 effect "Borrel Cooldown" per turn, and only once per turn.

Draconian Reincarnation Cycle Continuous Trap Card
Once per turn: You can banish 1 Dragon monster your GY; place 1 counter on this card and Special Summon 1 Dragon monster from your Deck whose Level is less than or equal to the banished monster's Level. If this card has 3 counters on it: Destroy it.

Revolving Borrel Normal Trap Card
Tribute 1 "Borrel" monster you control; Special Summon 1 "Borrel" monster with a different name that is either banished or in your GY, and if you do, it gains ATK equal to the Tributed monster's original ATK until the end of the turn. If your "Rokket" monster is destroyed, you can banish this card from your GY and target 1 "Borrel" monster you control; increase its ATK by the destroyed monster's original ATK until the end of the turn. You can only use each effect of "Revolving Borrel" once per turn.

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Chapter Preview

Next time on Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS: Hidden Memories. Chapter 60 – Night Out. All preparations have been completed. The Tower of Hanoi is ready to deploy. But the heroes have one night left to relax. While the adults have fun on their own, Yasutake, Yusaku, and Takeru hit the town, while Sachi, Masako, Aoi, and Emma have their own adventure…

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Question of the Chapter

If the other members of Team Playmaker: Revolver, Persephone, Galahad, Lilith, Ghost Girl, and Blue Maiden, are given Skill Switches, what would their Skills be?

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Author's Notes

Thank you to SakushiRyu for providing feedback on this chapter's OC cards. Thank you to Haoh Ryu Z-ARC, OPFan37, and ThePLOThand for proofreading this chapter's duel and the OC cards, and a huge thank you to OPFan37 for serving as a beta reader for this chapter.

Well, this was a fun chapter to write, especially after the last one. I'll start with the Ouroboros parts. First, we have the confirmation of why they attacked: Jormungand wants Playmaker's group and Hanoi to work together. Why? It's partly because he wants his enemies gathered in one place, but also because he needs them all to fight Lightning. Jormungand has a plan in motion, and the Hanoi have a role to play. Second is Techbane's, Merlin's, Thaumiel's, and HK-72's introduction to Lightning, which is kind of obligatory, but will lead into a scene I have planned for next chapter.

The main focus of this chapter however was the duel between Morningstar and Revolver. I did listen to all of you who said the timing might be inappropriate, so I decided to change the context. Instead of it being about determining who's stronger – although that is still there – it is mostly about Revolver trying to help Morningstar prepare for Zahhak by forcing him to adapt to someone who duels with overwhelming power. And he does so by throwing Link, Synchro, Fusion, and Xyz Summoning at him. I know it's an early introduction for eXcharge Dragon, but I rather like it and I thought it would be a good fit for the duel. It was also a good chance to show some new Cyspirit cards that Cypher made to counter the Cydemons. Will they be enough? We'll see.

As for the duel taking place in Father Narahiko's church… one of Yasutake's greatest fears, something I tried to touch on in Chapter 45 but didn't quite succeed in, is being vulnerable. I like to think it's a natural fear for most humans, but for a kidnapping victim, I think it would be more pronounced for Yasutake than it would be for most people. Yasutake is always trying to be calm and strong because the alternative, being weak and vulnerable, scares him. That's why his defeat at Zahhak's hands scarred him, because it made him feel weak. And that's why Revolver dueled the way he did and fought him in the church; it's the one place, aside from the Lost Incident, where he was the most vulnerable in his life. The place that created the foundations of Morningstar and where he gained and lost everything.

And then, we have another reveal: the names of the Cyseraph and Cydevil Link-5s. Obviously we didn't see them in action; that will come later. But I thought this would be a good time to reveal their names. Gabriel is the name of an archangel that serves as God's messenger to humanity. And for anyone who hasn't played Persona 5, Satanael is another name for Lucifer or Satan. My personal interpretation is that Lucifer or Helel is the devil as an archangel, Satanael is when he rebelled against God, and Satan is who he became when sealed in hell. But what do I know? I'm not a theologian.

Okay, I'll be working on Chapter 29 of Fifth Circuit. However, I will likely not be posting any chapters at all in January. The reason for this is that I want to finish the duels for the next three chapters, the first of which will have four duels, and the latter two will be having five each. And yes, some of these duels won't be very long, but I want to assure the quality of them. At the same time, I'll be hoping to finish up the duels for the Synchro arc of Fifth Circuit. Either way, don't look for any new content until February at the earliest.

Thank you once again for reading Chapter 59. Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year to all of you!