I thought long and hard about what this chapter should contain and so I've decided to let some other characters besides the main protagonists have their time in the spotlight.
Special thanks to CitrusUnshiu who is my beta-reader!
The chapter is in normal point of view.
Disclaimer: I do not own any Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's characters! I only own my OCs!
Chapter 8: Infernal Rescue Mission
The soft October wind was feeling a little playful today as it swept through New Domino City. It nearly blew Misty's hat off while she sipped a cup of tea on the terrace of a café. She caught her hat before the wind could steal it from her. She was in downtown incognito, wearing sunglasses and hat in which she had tucked her long hair underneath, not taking any chances of getting recognized by her fans.
Kalin sat next to her drinking a cup of his favorite black coffee. He was dressed casually since he was off-duty. After the Ark Cradle incident, Sector Security had to use every officer available, even trainees in the police academy, to restore the city and make it safe again after thugs had taken the liberty to steal valuables from abandoned stores and homes during the evacuation. Kalin had worked hard over the last few months, even back during the Grand Prix, so he was looking forward to his well-deserved vacation.
"Hi, I'm here!" Carly called as she zig-zagged between the seats on the terrace. "Sorry I'm late! I was writing a new article", she apologized to the pair before she removed her bag and sat down on the third and last empty seat.
"It's okay, Carly", Misty reassured the reporter. "We know you have been busy lately."
"Yeah, it's hectic, but I love it and I keep learning something new every day", Carly smiled and grabbed a glass of juice that Misty had ordered for her. She took a sip of the slight lukewarm juice and sighed in relief after she quenched her thirst. "That hit the spot!"
"What are you writing this time, Carly?" Kalin wondered.
"It's about the latest product of KaibaCorp; the Wheelie Breakers!" Carly's face exploded into a big smile. "They arranged a whole conference with many reporters…including Angela…", she muttered to herself when she remembered her forever rival. "But I was able to ask some questions that were enough to satisfy my curiosity."
"So they're really going to produce child-safe Duel Runners?" Kalin asked, remembering the rumors that had floated around in the city lately.
"Yep! They will release them after New Year", Carly replied and leaned closer to her friends to whisper another secret. "I also heard Leo and Luna got to test-drive them when the entrepreneurs introduced the Breakers to the Kaibas…"
"Did your cousin spoil you?" Misty wondered, knowing Carly's cousin part-time worked in a Duel Runner workshop and she remembered the reporter had told her about a secret project.
"Yep! We help each other since we both work in media", Carly nodded. "As compromise, we won't write articles of the same thing, so if I tell Blaze something he gets to write it."
"That's a good solution", Kalin commented and took another sip of his coffee.
"How've you guys been lately?" Carly asked as she changed the topic, not wanting to turn the conversation into a monologue. "Busy with work too?"
"Yes, my schedule has been full lately", Misty nodded while she adjusted her sunglasses. "I've been out of town for photoshoots. Sly had to stay here so he could go to school."
"How's Sly doing?" Kalin asked.
"He's doing well", Misty replied softly. "He still has some walls around him, but he's comfortable with me being his big sister. How are Cassy and her friends, Kalin?"
"Cassandra is doing will too", the former Enforcer replied. "She's taking online classes to prepare for the university exams."
"She's going to attend the university too?" Carly asked, surprised to hear another acquaintance of hers was planning to study in the university. "What does she want to study?"
"She said she's interested in law and wants to become a jurist", Kalin replied.
"A jurist? That's unexpected", Carly commented after she had taken another sip of her juice. "Why does she want to work with law?"
"She said she always wanted to contribute to Rebirth Town, especially after what happened with the Malcolm Family and the Radley Group", Kalin explained while he glanced at the drink in his coffee cup, seeing his reflection in the murky liquid. "Cassy's adamant on fulfilling her dream to bring justice and make Rebirth Town a safer place so no criminals can take control over our hometown ever again." He crossed his arms and couldn't help but grip them tight as he remembered what had occurred back in town when he went undercover. He never wanted to see the town fall into the hands of selfish people ever again.
"That is very ambitious of her. I'm sure she will do great", Misty spoke softly and placed her hand on top of Kalin's, sensing he was holding back his boiling anger. The blue-haired man snapped out of his thoughts by the gentle touch. His eyes softened at the gesture and gave the model a smile in return to show his appreciation.
Carly didn't want to really break the romance between them, but she didn't want to be left out since this was their first meet-up after the Grand Prix. "Does this mean Cassy is going back home to Rebirth Town once she becomes a jurist?" Her question snapped the two lovebirds out of their trance, both of them pulling their hands back with a blush on their cheeks.
"I'm not sure, but I believe so", Kalin nodded after he cleared his throat. "She's going to have to study five to seven years to earn her degree, if she passes the exam in January."
"I hope everyone is going to pass the exam", Carly nodded before she started counting on her fingers. "Yusei's going, Estelle too, Aki and now Cassy. At least four of our mutual friends are working hard with their studies."
"We should follow their example and do our best with work too", Misty said before she got a light bulb expression. "Speaking of, are you two free next Friday?"
"Let me check…", Carly picked up her smartphone to check her packed schedule. "Next Friday… Yep, I'm free that day."
"I still have vacation until the end of the month", Kalin responded. "Why are you asking?"
"Would you two be interested visiting the studio for my and Sly's next photoshoot session?" the model wondered.
Carly's eyes lit up behind her thick glasses by this opportunity to visit a studio and gain access to interview other models besides Misty. And maybe, just maybe, check the camera equipment they use for photoshoots. "I would love to go!" she exclaimed with a raised hand.
Kalin, however, wasn't so convinced about the invitation. He could see some sort of concern in Misty's eyes. "Is there another reason as of why you want us in the studio?"
Misty did her best keeping her usual smile, hiding the concern that was sealed within her. "I thought you might be curious about my workplace", she explained. "You can bring Cassandra and her friends along, Kalin. Who knows; you might get scouted by the agency."
"I highly doubt that…", Kalin mumbled quietly before it shifted into a light chuckle. Still, he couldn't shake off this feeling that Misty was hiding something else from them.
XXXXXXXXXX
"Aaand that's a wrap!" the director announced as soon as the photographer took the last picture. "Good work, everyone!"
Misty and another female model quit posing in the latest autumn collection and thanked each other for good work before they parted ways. Misty joined her friends who stood in a corner to stay out of the way for the staff who began dismantling the green screen and other equipment. Sly was already done for the day, so he had joined the young adults and observed the models for future reference. The only person who hadn't showed up was Misaki since she had university and refused to skip any of the courses.
"Good work, Misty", Cassandra nodded to the model that had shed off her heavy faux fur coat and carried it in her arms.
"Thank you, Cassandra", Misty smiled. "What do you think about this type of workplace?"
"Definitely not for me!" Toru commented with a soft wave of his hand. "I can't stand still in stiff poses while facing the camera in clean clothes. I'd prefer working in the garage and being a grease monkey."
Sly snorted lightly at Toru's statement, founding it slightly amusing, but he never expressed it on his face. He was still struggling with expressing his feelings openly, even with Misty's support. The only times he was ever seen smiling were by the photoshoots when requested to show a little joy.
"I can't imagine myself being a model too", Kalin chuckled. "I'm satisfied working for Security."
Misty giggled at his comment. "I too think being an officer suits you best, Kalin."
Cassandra and Toru exchanged a knowing glance as Kalin blushed at the compliment and rubbed the back of his head. The love tension between the two former Dark Signers was so obvious and yet none of them had yet taken the initiative to ask the other out on an official date. It could be that Kalin didn't want Misty's reputation get tarnished because of his past as a criminal hence his marker.
Carly paid very little attention to the conversation. Her eyes were glued at the camera the photographer had used for the photoshoot. It was of the latest model that cost her at least five months of salary, so it was like a treasure that was within her reach and yet so far away.
Misty noticed the reporter's eager expression and couldn't help but giggle. "Carly", she said, snapping the daydreamer out of her thoughts. "I've spoken to the photographer before and he said he has some time to talk to you after he finished packing up his equipment."
"Really?!" Carly exclaimed, eyes wide by the news. "S-S-So when do you think I can talk to him?"
Misty glanced over her shoulder and saw the photographer speak with the director as they went through some of the pictures taken, picking out the best ones for the next magazine issue. "You can go and talk to him now. Your input might help them choose the pictures."
"T-T-Then excuse me, guys!" Carly yelped before she left the group, hurrying to the photographer. She made sure not to trip on her eager feet this time. The last thing she wanted to happen was to make an embarrassment out of herself.
"She's as annoying as Leo…", Sly muttered unamused with his arms crossed.
A loud growl erupted from Cassandra's stomach. The poor girl blushed and hid her hungry belly as the others turned to her. "S-Sorry…", she apologized.
"Well, it is late and time for dinner", Toru said as he checked the time on his smartphone.
"How about we go out for dinner? My treat", Misty suggested with a smile.
"If this is gonna be a double date, I'm out", Sly grimaced.
"D-Double date?!" Cassandra shrieked softly, blushing hard as she carefully glanced at her teammate and secret crush. Toru have been her childhood friend ever since they were small and he used to be her big brother figure when she thought she had lost her twin brother, but now… As grown-ups, the dynamic between them have changed.
"Sure, why not", Toru grinned brightly. "I never say no to free dinner!"
"Geez, that was rude of you, Toru", Cassandra muttered sarcastically.
"It's okay, Cassandra", Misty smiled softly. "Sly, if you feel uncomfortable dining with us-"
"I'll go", Sly interrupted his adoptive big sister and turned away with his eyes closed. "I don't want to eat alone at home."
"Then it's decided", Misty nodded. "I need to go get changed and reserve a table for six. I'll see you outside."
The model hurried to her private room where her makeup artist helped removing her makeup. Misty booked a table in her favorite restaurant through their app while the makeup artist fixed her hair, untying it from the tall ponytail so the hair flowed down her back. After a quick change of clothes, Misty thanked her assistant and hurried down the hallway. She kept her poker face up, but she couldn't help but feel slightly anxious. That person was here today for the photoshoot and she wanted to avoid him at all cost.
"Misty!"
The model held back a frustrated hiss before she stopped in her tracks. She took a deep breath and turned around, pasting a fake smile on her face. "Good evening, Mr. Dean."
A tall and slim man in his late twenties with sun kissed skin walked toward Misty, flipping the locks of his blonde hair back to reveal his blue eyes that have charmed many females. Dean was a popular model and actor from America who was temporarily visiting Japan for work. Misty has met him a couple of times before, and she didn't have a good impression of him. He had once proclaimed they were meant to be as nobody but she could measure up to his so-called outstanding beauty. Basically, he's a narcissist.
"Fate must've brought us together", Dean said, behaving like the red thread of fate had brought him to his destiny. "Your beauty is so enhancing I cannot look away from you. Of course, my beauty shines brighter than yours, but we fit together like pieces in a puzzle."
Misty forced herself to keep the smile on her lips, although one of the corners twitched as she held back her frustration. "Is there anything you need from me, Mr. Dean?" she asked, trying to keep her voice clean of emotions.
"Ah yes, I wish to dine with you this evening", Dean replied before he offered a hand to the woman. "I have booked the best table in the city only for us, my dear flower."
Misty started feeling very uncomfortable with Dean's advances. Clearly he was the stubborn type who couldn't let go of something once he had set his mind to it. "I'm sorry, but I already have plans for this evening", she diplomatically rejected the dinner invitation and softly bowed her head. "Excuse me, I must go."
She thought nothing else would happen, so she let out a loud gasp of surprise when Dean suddenly grabbed her wrist. "No, my flower", the American shook his head. "You're not going with those filthy friends of yours, especially that criminal. They will only defile your pure soul with their mere presence. You don't need to associate with such low-lives."
Misty bit back her retort that lingered on her tongue. Her soul wasn't as pure as Dean thought due to her past as a Dark Signer, but that didn't matter anymore. What mattered right now was to get away from this obstinate man. "They are dear friends of mine, so do not speak about them like that", she argued with a glare as her tone began switching into frustration.
"Is everything okay?"
Kalin had walked back into the building to look for Misty since she was taking her time to get done. He hadn't been able to shake off this nagging feeling that something was bothering his crush and wanted to make sure she was okay. He had just rounded a corner when he spotted Misty being held against her will by a tall blonde man who he had seen earlier during the photoshoot session.
"What's going on here?" Kalin asked, narrowing his eyes at the American.
"Kalin", Misty gasped in relief at the sight of her love interest.
Dean chuckled with an amusing expression and casually let go of the female model. Misty immediately strutted to Kalin and stood by his side, gently grasping her sore wrist. "Nothing, criminal", Dean said nonchalantly. "I just want to invite Misty to dinner and she hurt my poor heart when she rejected me."
The soft blue haired man glanced at Misty and noticed a bruise forming around her wrist where the blonde American had held her. Anger boiled within his soul, but he maintained his poker face as he turned back to Dean. "So you felt like you needed to hurt Misty to convince her going with you? That's not the manners of a true man."
"That's low coming from a criminal like you", Dean chuckled like Kalin's comment was a mere joke and pulled his hair back with his nose up high. "At the end of the day, she will join me for dinner and we shall become the world's most beautiful couple." His face lit up when he got an idea. "But if you insist on standing in our way, then I'll challenge you to a Duel!"
"A Duel?" Misty mumbled in surprise at the sudden declaration.
Kalin himself barely grimaced at the outburst. He had somewhat expected that.
"It will be simple; if I win, Misty goes with me for dinner", Dean explained the winning conditions. "But! If you would happen to win, which the chances are low, you may bring Misty out on a date."
Now that comment nearly threw Kalin off guard. He did everything he could to hold back the heat that threatened to paint his cheeks into a soft pink blush which would be highly visible on his fair skin. He thanked himself for having strong self-control and pushed the blush back before giving Dean a determined glare.
"I accept your challenge."
XXXXXXXXXX
Dean, Kalin, Misty and the rest of the group went to a nearby park for the Ground Duel. Kalin stood ready with his activated Gunman's Disk which he carried everywhere whenever he was off-duty, never knowing when he had to step in and serve justice. Dean used his ocean blue Duel Disk with sky blue colored gems. After hearing the circumstances that had led up to this Duel, Carly, Cassandra and Toru were irritated at American and made sure to shield Misty from him by standing next to her and provide her comfort. Even Sly stood in front of his adoptive sister to silently show he cared about her.
"Good luck, 'cause you're gonna need it", Dean smirked as he activated his Duel Disk.
"I may have a track record, but I take pride in who I am today", Kalin replied calmly, taking no offense, and inserted his Deck in his Gunman's Disk.
"You can do it, Kalin!" Cassandra shouted to her big brother.
"Beat that idiot into a plump!" Toru encouraged his friend and pumped his fist.
"I'm gonna record this for future reference", Carly had her trust camera with her, so she held it up to record the current events.
"Kalin…", Misty mumbled softly. She was a little concerned, fearing Kalin might lose this Duel, but she believed in him. They might have a small history back when they were Dark Signers, but now her feelings for Kalin went deeper than just a crush.
"Duel!"
Dean: 4000 LP
Kalin: 4000 LP
"I'll go first", Dean called and reached for his Deck. "Draw! I play Gladiator Proving Ground! It allows me to add one Level 4 or lower Gladiator Beast from my Deck to the hand. I add Gladiator Beast Samnite and then summon Gladiator Beast Equeste in attack mode!"
A beast in the shape of a centaur clad in dark blue armor galloped onto the field after running out from the gate. Equeste raised his shield and stomped the hooves on the ground.
Gladiator Beast Equeste, Level 4: ATK 1600
"I equip him with two Equip Spells; Gladiator Beast's Battle Archfiend Shield and Gladiator Beast's Battle Manica! When Equeste would be destroyed, I can destroy the shield instead. And the Battle Manica prevents Equeste to be destroyed by battle."
Equeste's shield lit up for a second before it transformed into a black shield with bronze decoration, greatly resembling an Archfiend weapon. His right arm got clad into a bronze and iron arm guard, adding more armor to his body.
"I now activate the Continuous Spell; Gladiator Rejection! You cannot target any Gladiator Beast Monsters I control with card effects, except during the Battle Phase. There are more effects, but I'll explain them when I activate them. And I end my turn with this", Dean smirked at Kalin. "Your turn, dirty criminal."
Kalin said nothing in response and drew his sixth card from the Deck. "Draw. I activate Infernity Wildcat's effect in my hand. I discard Infernity Avenger from my hand to Special summon Wildcat in attack mode."
A red cat jumped out from a gate in front of Kalin, its paws caught on fire, and hissed at the Gladiator Beast with a glare of its crimson eyes.
Infernity Wildcat, Level 3, Tuner: ATK 1400
"I summon Infernity Beetle in attack mode."
A large beetle with dark green shell and large mandibles chirped as it joined the fiery wildcat, making sure to stay away from the fire paws.
Infernity Beetle, Level 2, Tuner: ATK 1200
"Two Tuners, huh? What's your plan?" Dean questioned amusingly.
"I now play Infernity Paranoia", Kalin replied as he continued his turn, answering the question by his actions. "I Tribute Infernity Beetle to Special summon another Infernity Monster with the same Level as Beetle from my Deck, but its effects will be negated. I Special summon Infernity Dwarf in defense mode."
Infernity Beetle transformed into a mass of energy and sent some of its life force to the Graveyard. The remnants stayed on the field and shapeshifted into a dwarf with a large axe enveloped in a fiery aura in his hand.
Infernity Dwarf, Level 2: DEF 500
"I set one card and end my turn."
Dean snorted amusingly at Kalin's field. "All that and not even a Synchro summoning? Looks to me you're bricking, which will make things a whole lot easier for me", he commented and commenced his turn. "Draw! I summon Gladiator Beast Samnite in attack mode!"
A predator in the form of an anthropomorphic albino saber-toothed tiger appeared next to Equeste, clad in armor and carrying weapons resembling the armor Roman gladiators used to wear during Roman games in the ancient times.
Gladiator Beast Samnite, Level 3: ATK 1600
"I activate my Trap; Full Salvo", Kalin calmly called out. "I send my entire hand to the Graveyard and inflict 200 points of damage for each card. I only have one card, so you'll only take 200 points of damage."
The activated Trap card flashed before it launched one rocket from the artwork while Kalin sent his single card from hand to Graveyard. The rocket whistled before it flew past Dean and crashed right behind him, exploding by impact. Dean coughed lightly as he got engulfed by smoke that swiftly dispersed, leaving some spots of soot behind on his clothes.
Dean: 4000 LP – 3800 LP
Kalin: 4000 LP
"Infernity Sage's effect", Kalin called out. "Once per turn, when it's sent to the Graveyard and I have no other cards in my hand, I can send one Infernity Monster from my Deck to the Graveyard. I select Infernity Conjurer."
Dean smirked at his opponent, finding Kalin's gameplay amusing especially now that his hand was completely empty. "Are you even trying your best to prevent me from going out with Misty? It's enough proof you and your little group aren't worthy of her friendship", the American commented. "Well, it's time to finally battle! Samnite, attack Infernity Dwarf!"
Samnite growled in response before he dashed toward the little dwarf with its giant axe. Samnite raised his short sword and impaled Infernity Dwarf without hesitation. The dwarf Monster yelled out in pain before he exploded into pieces.
"Equeste, attack Infernity Wildcat!"
Equeste kicked up dirt before he galloped toward the burning wildcat. He took a leap up in the air and crashed down onto Infernity Wildcat. His hooves stomped the poor cat into oblivion, forcing it to leave the field. Kalin didn't even blink when his Monster left the field, leaving it clear for direct attacks.
Dean: 3800 LP
Kalin: 4000 LP – 3800 LP
"Now our Life Points are even", Dean commented, his smirk still pasted on his face.
"Yes, but Infernity Avenger's effect activates in my Graveyard", Kalin responded. "When a Monster I control is destroyed by battle by my opponent's Monster and sent to the Graveyard, while I have no cards in my hand, I can Special summon him from the Graveyard and his Level will tur equal to the Level of my destroyed Monster."
A tiny Monster that had the crossed appearance of a scarecrow and a cowboy with two guns strapped onto its hips floated out from a gate and flashed a maniac grin at Dean.
Infernity Avenger, Level 1 – Level 3, Tuner: DEF 0
"Lucky for you I cannot attack with my Monsters again, but I'll activate one of their effects at the end of this Battle Phase", Dean reported. "This is an effect that almost every Gladiator Beast has. I shuffle Equeste back to my Deck to Special summon another Gladiator Beast from my Deck. Come forth, Gladiator Beast Laquari!"
Equeste dropped his Archfiend Shield and Battle Manica before he transformed into an orb of water energy. The element of the orb switched into fire before it burst out a wave of flames. It swiftly transformed into an anthropomorphic tiger clad in red armor and a ring of fire enveloping him.
Gladiator Beast Laquari, Level 4: ATK 1800
"Since Laquari was Special summoned by the effect of a Gladiator Beast, his attack points becomes 2100."
Laquari released a screech as the flames of his fire ring began burning stronger, showcasing the increase of his strength.
Gladiator Beast Laquari, Level 4: ATK 1800 – ATK 2100
"The Equip cards return to my hand when the Gladiator Beast equipped with them is shuffled back to the Deck by its own effect", Dean explained. "Also, Gladiator Rejection's effect activates now. Once per turn, if a Gladiator Beast is Special summoned from my Main Deck, I can Special summon another Gladiator Beast from the Deck with a different type from the Monsters I control in defense node. I Special summon Gladiator Beast Hoplomus!"
Another anthropomorphic animal wearing Greek ancient armor appeared on the field, this time a rhinoceros. It crouched down onto one knee as several small hexagon shields swirled around it, creating a shield to prevent it from getting harmed.
Gladiator Beast Hoplomus, Level 4: DEF 2100
"Main Phase 2! I shuffle back Gladiator Beast Laquari and my two other Gladiator Beasts to Special summon a Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck!"
"You can do that without using Polymerization?!" Toru exclaimed in shock, surprised to hear this Fusion method.
"Sure can", Dean smirked as he grabbed one of his Fusion cards stored in a hidden compartment of his Duel Disk. "I fuse Gladiator Beast Laquari with Gladiator Beast Samnite and Gladiator Beast Hoplomus to Fusion summon Gladiator Beast Heraklinos!"
The fire ring of Laquari burst into an inferno while releasing a cry from his throat, getting engulfed by his own flames. Samnite and Hoplomus never hesitated to jump into the fire as the inferno expanded to the sky. The silhouette of a large creature appeared in the midst of the whirlpool of fire before it released a cry deeper than Laquari's, forcing the flames to disperse into tiny bits of ember scattering across the field. An anthropomorphic tiger taller than Laquari growled as he was clad in armor in various colors, carrying a shield in his left hand and an axe that also served as a spear.
Gladiator Beast Heraklinos, Level 8: ATK 3000
"What is that monstrosity?" Cassandra couldn't help but ask out loud.
"This is Gladiator Beast Heraklinos; my most powerful Monster!" Dean proclaimed. "He's a Chimera Warrior as you can see on his armor; he carries parts of other Gladiator Beast Monsters. This makes him the ultimate Gladiator Beast!"
"Impressive", Kalin nodded, acknowledging the new threat on the field. He wasn't panicking since the Battle Phase was over and he was under no threat right now.
Dean grinned proudly and pulled his hair back. "Thank you, low-life, but I'm not done yet", he smirked. "I play Gladiator Beast's Respite! I shuffle two Gladiator Beast cards from my hand back to the Deck and then draw three cards. The only cards I have are the Equip cards, but I don't need them right now." He shuffled his cards back to his Deck before he drew three cards, seeing he got something helpful. "I set two cards and end my turn."
"Draw", Kalin called out calmly and drew a card to commence his turn. "I summon my second Infernity Beetle in attack mode."
The insect chirped as it flew out from a gate, joining Infernity Avenger who remained silent.
Infernity Beetle, Level 2, Tuner: ATK 1200
"Infernity Conjurer's effect activates in my Graveyard. Once per turn, while I have no cards in my hand and Conjurer is in the Graveyard, I can Special summon it, but it will be removed from play when it leaves the field."
A humanoid monster clad in a purple robe and orange scarf appeared on the field. It wielded a staff in its hand with a gem that resembled a red eye. Its face was hidden by a decorative facemask, but you could see its mouth as it grinned maliciously.
Infernity Conjurer, Level 3: DEF 900
"Not only that, but while this card is on the field and my hand is empty, the Monsters my opponent control loses 800 attack points."
Conjurer raised its staff and used its power to activate the red eye gem. A fiendish red light mixed with black enveloped the staff before Conjurer aimed it at Heraklinos. The gem glowed brighter and released an aura before it engulfed the Gladiator Beast. The anthropomorphic tiger grunted as the devilish aura reduced his strength.
Gladiator Beast Heraklinos, Level 8: ATK 3000 – ATK 2200
Dean snorted at the change of Heraklinos' attack points. "That was unnecessary. Your Monsters are still too weak against Heraklinos' strength."
"Don't speak too soon, Mr. Dean", Kalin retorted nonchalantly. "I tune Level 3 Infernity Avenger with Level 3 Infernity Conjurer. The dead and the living… The moment they meet at zero, above the cage of eternity, the demonic archfiend comes out! Synchro summon! Show yourself, Infernity Doom Archfiend!"
The two selected Monsters left the field and were replaced by a very tall Synchro Monster, even taller than Heraklinos. Its appearance greatly resembled Infernity Archfiend, except this version had more of a mature and experienced aura and wore colors representing fiery evil.
Infernity Doom Archfiend, Level 6: ATK 2200
At the same time as Infernity Conjurer disappeared into a wormhole, it canceled its effect, removing the fiendish aura from Heraklinos. The tiger gladiator screeched in pride as his attack points returned to normal, feelings his strength returning after they got sealed.
Gladiator Beast Heraklinos, Level 8: ATK 2200 – ATK 3000
"Is that a new Monster?" Sly wondered, tilting his head to the side.
"Yeah, Kalin recently added it to his Deck", Cassandra answered, a tiny smile shown on her face, knowing her big brother was about to turn the Duel around.
"You do know your Monster's still not strong enough against Heraklinos now that your Conjurer's gone, low-life", Dean informed Kalin.
"Yes, you're right about that, so I will do this instead", Kalin nodded and raised his right hand. "Infernity Doom Archfiend's effect! Once per turn, I can target one face-up card on the field and negate its effects until the end of this turn. If I have no cards in my hand, I can destroy the targeted card. I target Gladiator Rejection."
Doom Archfiend hummed as he gathered his dark energy into a black orb between the palms of his hands. The orb sparkled with crimson light that intensified before the Synchro Monster threw the orb at the face-up Continuous Spell card. Dean covered his face when his card got destroyed by the shadow ball, the remnants of Gladiator Rejection flying around him before they dispersed in the air.
"Now your Gladiator Beasts are no longer protected from monster effects", Kalin spoke. "It's unfortunate I cannot use Doom Archfiend's effect a second time, so I'm going to use another Monster to eliminate Heraklinos." He could sense the tingling sensations of his psychic powers being activated, but he kept them under control. "I tune Level 2 Infernity Beetle with Level 6 Infernity Doom Archfiend. The dead and the living… The moment they meet at zero, above the cage of eternity, the demonic dragon comes out! Synchro summon! Show yourself, Infernity Doom Dragon!"
Beetle buzzed before it transformed into two tuning circles and enveloped Doom Archfiend, turning his body transparent before they released a bright light engulfing the field. A dragon cry echoed from the light before it faded away and revealed Kalin's ace Monster of his Deck.
Infernity Doom Dragon, Level 8: ATK 3000
"Alright! He brought out the big gun!" Toru cheered eagerly.
Dean grimaced at the grotesque dragon. In his eyes, it was a zombie monster with its skull cracked open and exposed its brain. "Ugh! What is this nasty monstrosity?!" he yelled, feeling nauseous by the Synchro Monster's hideous appearance.
"It's my ultimate Monster", Kalin replied, keeping his cool expression. "When Infernity Doom Archfiend is used for Synchro summoning a DARK Synchro Monster, that new Monster can make up to two attacks on Monsters during each Battle Phase. However, I won't be commencing my Battle Phase this turn because I'll activate Infernity Doom Dragon's effect. Once per turn, while having no cards in my hand, I can select one Monster my opponent controls and destroy that Monster. Not only that, but also inflict damage to my opponent equal to half its attack points. Infernity Doom Dragon, use Infernity Death Breath."
Doom Dragon let out a rumble from his chest while he slowly opened his mouth, dark breath coming up from his throat. He breathed the shadow gas at Heraklinos, engulfing the Gladiator Beast who began gagging at the smell of corpse. Heraklinos roared in pain as his body decayed, falling apart into a pile of rotten goo before it vanished from the field. Dean covered his mouth as the breath engulfed him, causing him to gag as well. He could feel the bile coming up, but he swallowed it back and fanned the gas away while his Life Points took a chunk of damage.
Dean: 3800 LP – 2300 LP
Kalin: 3800 LP
"Infernity Doom Dragon cannot attack once his effect is activated, so I end my turn."
Dean turned his head and spat out some foul tasting saliva from his mouth, trying to get rid of the aftertaste of the Synchro dragon's breath. He wiped his lips clean with the back of his hand, glaring daggers at Kalin who remained perfectly calm. He was getting very annoyed by the former criminal, standing there with a poker face like he was the big man.
"You'll regret messing with me and my destined partner!" the male model yelled as he violently drew his next card. "My turn! I summon Gladiator Beast Murmillo in attack mode!"
A humanoid fish with blue scales and armor appeared on the field, grunting as it took its stand on Dean's field. It moved its lips, making bubbling noises like fish do underwater.
Gladiator Beast Murmillo, Level 3: ATK 800
"I activate one of my facedown cards, the Quick-Play Spell; Gladiator Taming! When there's a face-up Gladiator Beast on the field, I can select one face-up Monster my opponent control and change its battle position, or select one face-up Gladiator Beast Monster my opponent controls and take control of it until the End Phase! I change your Infernity Doom Dragon's position into defense mode!"
Said Spell card released a light and went to Murmillo's hand, transforming into a whip. The fishman pulled the elastic rope to test its durability before it swung the weapon at Doom Dragon. The whip struck the Synchro Monster on its abdomen, making Doom Dragon release a shriek of pain. Doom Dragon grimaced and rubbed his abdomen to soothe the pain while crouching down into defense position.
Infernity Doom Dragon, Level 8: ATK 3000 – DEF 2400
"I've got you now!" Dean laughed. "Battle! And before I choose to attack, I activate my other facedown Quick-Play Spell; Gladiator Beast United! During the Battle Phase, I can shuffle Monsters from my hand, field or Graveyard back to my Deck that are listed on a Gladiator Beast Fusion Monster and Special summon that Fusion Monster, ignoring its summoning conditions! I shuffle back Gladiator Beast Spartacus from my hand and Gladiator Beast Heraklinos from the Graveyard to Special summon Gladiator Beast Gaiodiaz!"
Heraklinos briefly appeared on the field before he transformed into fire energy to represent his FIRE attribute next to the figure of Spartacus, an anthropomorphic lizard with brown armor and a halberd in its hands. Spartacus transformed into energy with yellow-brownish color representing the element of EARTH. The two element energies swirled together like paint dissolved in water before the new Fusion Monster entered the field. It looked like an upgraded version of Spartacus, being thrice as big and wearing black and gold armor, carrying the new weapon of a double axe.
Gladiator Beast Gaiodiaz, Level 7: ATK 2600
"Oh no! That'll knock out Doom Dragon!" Toru panicked.
"It's right! Now we can start the battle!" Dean shouted determinedly. "Gladiator Beast Gaiodiaz, attack Infernity Doom Dragon! Slay it into pieces!"
Gaiodiaz dashed toward the black dragon, helpless without any protection. The Fusion Monster swung his double axe and chopped Doom Dragon in half. Doom Dragon could barely scream before his body imploded, sending his remnants across the field.
"Gladiator Beast Gaiodiaz's effect!" Dean called out, catching everyone, even Kalin, off guard by the sudden declaration. "When Gaiodiaz destroys a Monster by battle and sends it to the Graveyard, he inflicts damage to you equal to the destroyed Monster's defense points!"
"What?" Kalin's eyes widened slightly at the new information.
Gaiodiaz hissed aggressively as he continued running toward Kalin, raising his double axe and swung it across his abdomen. Misty, Carly and Cassandra shrieked in horror, even though Kalin didn't get a scratch on him. If the Monster had been real and not just a hologram, Kalin would've gotten his coat and shirt cut open, embedding a deep wound with blood and skin scattered around him. The psychic grunted as he got pushed back by the force of the move, but he caught himself before he could collapse to the ground.
Dean: 2300 LP
Kalin: 3800 LP – 1400 LP
Dean smirked at the change of flow of the Duel. He had finally gotten the advantage he needed to secure his win. "Gladiator Beast Murmillo, attack the low-life directly!"
Murmillo moved his lips, making bubbling noises as he clumsily dashed toward Kalin. He raised one of his webbed hands clad with sharp claws and slashed the former Dark Signer across his chest. Kalin grunted as the force slightly pushed him back, already a little weakened after the effect damage he took seconds ago.
Dean: 2300 LP
Kalin: 1400 LP – 600 LP
"Hang on, Kalin! You still got this!" Toru encouraged his friend, fearing Kalin was about to lose hope due to the disadvantage.
"He's done for, so don't cheer for him", Dean glared at the group supporting Kalin. "At the end of the Battle Phase, since Gaiodiaz attacked, he returns to the Extra Deck so I can Special summon two Gladiator Beasts from my Deck, except Spartacus. Join your brethren, Gladiator Beast Augustus and Gladiator Beast Equeste!"
The fusion lizard's body glowed before it separated its essence into two energy orbs. They slowly took the shape of a familiar centaur and a winged beast Monster with four arms, clad in purple armor and facial features of a bird and wings of a dragon. The new Gladiator Beast shrieked and raised its single sword before he impaled it in the ground in front of him, standing tall like a true emperor.
Gladiator Beast Augustus, Level 8: ATK 2600
Gladiator Beast Equeste, Level 4: ATK 1600
"Equeste's effect! Since he was Special summoned by the effect of another Gladiator Beast, I can target one Gladiator Beast card in my Graveyard and add it to my hand. I select Gladiator Taming!"
"Not good", Sly commented. "If Kalin summons a new mon, Dean's gonna use Gladiator Taming and put that Monster into defense, giving Kalin no chance to battle."
"Kalin…", Misty mumbled worriedly, her eyes a little glassy by unshed tears, praying the man who owned a piece of her heart will make it through.
"Main Phase 2!" Dean yelled out. "I shuffle my three Gladiator Beasts back to the Deck to Special summon a new Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck!"
"C'mon! Another one?!" Toru growled tiredly. "When is this loop gonna end?!"
Dean ignored the complaints as he shuffled his Monsters back to the Main Deck. "Come forth, Gladiator Beast Nerokius!"
The holograms of the former Gladiator Beasts had remained on the field to fuse themselves together into the third and final Fusion Gladiator Beast. This one had features of a humanoid bat dressed in dark purple armor and lilac gems decorating it. It crossed its arms and glared at Kalin, silently waiting for its master's next command.
Gladiator Beast Nerokius, Level 8: ATK 2800
"Since I'm a nice guy, I will let you know that Nerokius cannot be destroyed by battle, so try summoning those Synchro Monsters of yours to defeat him", Dean cackled and flipped his hair back. "I set one card and end my turn."
"You can do it, Kalin! Don't let that bat stop you!" Toru shouted.
"Don't disappoint us now, Kalin!" Carly called, turning her camera at said man.
"Believe in your Deck!" Kalin's sister yelled, joining the cheerleading squad.
The former Dark Signer looked at his friends and family, exchanging a glance with Misty who stared at him with her hands intertwined. He could see the hope shining in her eyes, so he had to live up to it and win this.
"My turn", Kalin nodded and drew the last card of this Duel. "I summon Infernity Randomizer in attack mode."
A double gun appeared on the field before a head and a pair of hands popped out, revealing the fiend that had taken control over the dangerous firearm.
Infernity Randomizer, Level 1: ATK 900
"Infernity Randomizer's effect", Kalin declared just as the fiend Monster began spinning its double gun around. "Once per turn, with no cards in my hand, I can draw one card and reveal it. If it's a Monster, you'll take damage equal to the Level of that Monster times two-hundred. But…if it is a Spell or Trap card, I'll take 500 points of damage."
"So you wanna play Russian Roulette?" Dean chuckled amusingly. "Fine by me. Let's see whether fate is on your side or not."
Randomizer slowly came to a halt, making so the barrels of the double gun were aimed both at Dean and Kalin. The Infernity Duelist reached for his Deck with his eyes closed and drew the top card. His friends tensed up and prayed he had drawn a Monster card.
Kalin opened his eyes and checked the card. His eyebrow twitched very slightly before he revealed his card for everyone. Misty and the others felt their hope fading away when they saw the green card.
"Infernity Launcher, a Spell card", Kalin called out.
Randomizer loaded a bullet within the double gun and fired it at Kalin. He let out a grunt through his gritted teeth when the bullet hit his chest, dispersing straight after impact.
Dean: 2300 LP
Kalin: 600 LP – 100 LP
"Oh no! Kalin!" Toru yelled worriedly.
"He's done to 100 Life Points now!" Carly panicked, aiming her camera at Kalin.
Dean laughed, finding it humorous how his opponent had just dealt damage to himself with his own Monster. "It's so unfortunate your Monster can't deal 600 points of damage instead!" he commented, mirth in his voice. "It's over for you, low-life! You will never have Misty!"
The corner of Kalin's lips barely twitched into a smile. "I've got the card I need."
"Huh?" Dean stopped laughing and arched a confused eyebrow.
"I activate the Continuous Spell; Infernity Launcher", Kalin called, summoning a cannon-shaped launcher with characteristics of the Infernity archetype. "I can't use its first effect, so I'll activate its second effect by having no cards in my hand. I send this card to the Graveyard to target two Infernity Monsters in my Graveyard and Special summon them to the field."
Dean suddenly started feeling nervous, cold sweat accumulating on his face. He knew of two Monsters of Kalin's that could destroy his Fusion Monster with their effects, but maybe, just maybe he couldn't summon them. "Any Infernity Monsters?"
"Any Infernity Monster", Kalin responded with a soft nod and grabbed the two cards that his Gunman's Disk had just ejected from the Graveyard. "Return, Infernity Doom Archfiend and Infernity Doom Dragon!"
The launcher moved on its own and aimed its barrel to the sky before it fired two inferno orbs. The machine dissipated just as the magic orbs shapeshifted and took forms of Kalin's Synchro Monsters that had been revived from the Graveyard. Doom Dragon screeched in relief, happy to be back alive. Doom Archfiend remained silent as he glared at Nerokius.
Infernity Doom Archfiend, Level 6: ATK 2200
Infernity Doom Dragon, Level 8: ATK 3000
Dean grew pale at the sight of the hideous Monsters that dared to pollute his magnificent aura. "G-Gladiator Taming!" he yelled out in a panic while activating his facedown card. "I switch Infernity Doom Dragon to defense mode!"
Nerokius received the taming whip from the Quick-Play Spell card and swung it at Doom Dragon. He growled aggressively at the Gladiator Beast, but his muzzle got a big slap by the whip, making him whine by the sudden hit and crouched into defense position.
Infernity Doom Dragon, Level 8: ATK 3000 – DEF 2400
"Futile", Kalin shook his head. "Infernity Doom Dragon's effect… Infernity Death Breath."
Doom Dragon opened his mouth and breathed the same gas that had eliminated Heraklinos at Nerokius. The armored humanoid bat started gagging and tried fanning away the gas, but he couldn't avoid his destruction. His armor started crumbling while his body decayed into black waste that got thrown on Dean's face as a result of reducing his Life Points.
Dean: 2300 LP – 900 LP
Kalin: 100 LP
Everyone except Kalin winced at the sight of Dean being caked by murky sludge. It slowly ran down his face and dripped down to the ground. He had a stunned expression like he couldn't believe he actually got dirty, even though it was just the effects of Solid Vision. "N-No… No!" He could feel his rage building up as his brain couldn't comprehend what had just occurred. "Y-Y-You…fucking skank!"
Misty swiftly covered Sly's ears so he wouldn't hear the curse word. Unfortunately for her, he had already heard it. To be honest, he had heard worse back when he was very young and still lived with his mom before she left him with his grandparents.
"How dare you soil my face?!" the blonde male screamed at Kalin. "You'll pay for that!"
"Relax, man! That wasn't real!" Toru shouted to Dean. "You look just fine!"
"Don't agitate him, Toru", Misty warned him, removing her hands from Sly's ears.
"Battle", Kalin declared, ignoring Dean and his tantrum. "Infernity Randomizer, finish it."
The fiend cackled maliciously as it loaded a new bullet and spun its body so the double gun was aimed at both Duelists. Randomizer fired a bullet and struck Dean on the chest with a force strong enough to knock him down on his backside, amplified by Kalin's psychic power.
"You…didn't satisfy me", Kalin commented as Dean's Life Points dropped down to zero.
Dean: 900 LP – 0 LP
Kalin: 100 LP
"And this Duel goes to Kalin Kessler, the Handless Demon!" Carly announced before she stopped recording the Duel.
"I knew he'd do it", Cassandra smiled, feeling proud of her twin brother. "Looks like he'll be your knight in shiny armor, Misty."
Misty giggled with a blush painting her pale cheeks. "He's more like a handsome fiend."
"Ugh! Please!" Sly faked a gag, feeling uncomfortable hearing the sugar-coated words. Still, he preferred Kalin dating his adoptive sister rather than that foolish American.
Dean pushed himself up on his elbows, his body shaking in rage by the humiliation he just tasted. "T-This isn't over!" he snarled and rapidly got up on his feet before he ran away with his tail tucked between his legs. "I'll come back for you next time, Misty! Just you wait!"
"I highly doubt that…", Toru commented as the blonde man went out of the group's sight.
Kalin pocketed his Deck and put his Gunman's Disk in the holster hiding beneath his long coat before he walked to his friends and sister, his eyes locked on Misty. "Was he the reason you wanted us by your side today?"
"Yes", Misty confessed. "I assumed if Mr. Dean saw us he would leave me alone. I know he's persistent, but I never thought he'd take it this far."
"You should have told us the truth sooner, Misty", Carly said as she packed her camera in her shoulder bag. "We could have stayed by your side the whole time and prevented him from approaching you."
"What's done is done", Cassandra shrugged softly. "But my stomach's famished, so we should hurry to the restaurant."
"Ah yes, the reservation becomes invalid if we don't make it in time", Misty nodded and tucked a piece of hair behind her ear.
They hurried to the parking lot where their Duel Runners and Carly's car were parked and prepared themselves to drive off. Misty suddenly stopped in her tracks which caught Kalin's attention. "What's wrong, Misty?"
"I haven't thanked you yet for protecting me from Mr. Dean, Kalin", the model replied. She strutted to him in her autumn boots and pecked a kiss on his lips.
Kalin's eyes widened by the move and felt his cheeks heat up. Misty pulled back and gave him another smile, cheeks blazing red. "Kalin… I like you very much. More than just friends and former comrades who have a history. Will you go out with me?"
The former Enforcer hadn't expected to hear his crush actually confess to him. He had planned to confess to her someday, but she beat him to the punch. He cleared his throat before he expressed his joy with a big smile, normally saved for his family. "Yes, I'd love to go out with you, Misty", he replied before a blush blossomed on his fair face. "I've actually…had feelings for you even after…the fling, but I didn't want my presence stain your reputation."
Misty knew he was indicating his past as a marked criminal. People could look at her differently if she came out dating Kalin, but she could care less about their opinion. She gently traced the gold marker on his face, caressing like it was fragile porcelain, and stared in his eyes. "I have already predicted your future", she chuckled. "We might face obstacles, but our love will overcome them. I chose you, Kalin, and nobody gets to come between us and tell us otherwise."
"In that case…", Kalin took Misty's left hand and lifted it up to his lips, planting a knight's kiss. "I look forward exploring the future with you, Misty. Please take good care of me."
Misty giggled and felt another heatwave flush across her face. "Take good care of me too, Kalin."
"Hey, love birds!" Toru shouted, revving his Runner. "Let's go!"
The new couple shared a smile before they hurried to their friends and family. They almost forgot they had dinner plans, so they had to hurry before Misty's reservation could get canceled.
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Dean is based on the Tag Force character, so his Deck is based on "Battle Chronicles of the Enthusiastic Generations" from Tag Force 6.