Chapter 4 – Welcome to Duel Academy! Hierarchy of Kaiba's Ego
Bold words: Name Introductions; Card names; Monster Stats; 'Special Attacks'; Player(s) Life Points.
. (A) / (FM): Anime / Fan-Made - Cards used in the Anime/Manga; Cards created by the author.
. Italic: Non-English words; Epilogue and Prologue.
. " " - Normal Talk
. ' ' - Thoughts; Summon Chants
Special Thanks: Zeon Paralysis Crystal (Story Proof-Read); CaioCoia (Story Idea – Duel Points)
Author's Note: This episode will probably be the longest I'll post because the introduction of Duel Academy took half of this chapter.
– PROLOGUE –
Jaden's Flashback: Four Years Ago
On another sunny day, on the streets of Domino City; people walking in different directions, many were parents accompanied by their respective children.
One of those parents happened to be a tall beautiful woman; she had dark-brown hair that shined well with the sun rays, blue eyes, and sweet lips. 'SPIRIT' was printed on the shirt she was wearing under her red coat; wearing a necklace with a heart-shaped piece of jewelry, an anniversary gift given to her from her husband.
She was holding hands with their soon-to-be adoptive son Jaden; they were walking to her destination…
"But Mooom!" The little kid complained petulantly with a childish pout on his little face. "I wanted to finish the last part of that scary book, Goad Demon: The Infernal Stand. I was at this part where the odd-looking hero was facing a lot of bad people who wanted to hurt him and his loved ones. I was sure their battle would be so cool…"
"It's okay, Jaden. You'll get time when I'm done with my dance rehearsal, gotcha? I promise you that I'll buy you ice cream, any flavor you want; Is that fine with you?"
The boy pouted and looked to his other side. Yubel was sporting a deadpan look to her pleading stare that would say 'Think I could control him right now' but was back to looking at how cute Jaden was acting with his stepmother.
"Yubel, please make a trip home and back. Could you bring me the Comic Book? Pretty please, it'll be quick…", Jaden begged.
Yubel sighed while rubbing her temples as if she had this conversation many times. "Unfortunately, I can't, my little Prince. It's much better to listen to the adults occasionally, for a better experience. Besides, you should be very happy staying close to your adoptive mother, wouldn't you agree?"
"Hmmm…", Jaden's small cheeks puffed up with air in irritation, the demoness snickering at his reaction. "Yubel, you stink."
"Now, now… You two better behave, or no ice cream for anybody.", the woman warned with a sly look on her face.
"… Yes, Mooom… I'll be good," Jaden says petulantly, standing now in front of a big but well-designed building. "Is this the place where you work?"
His adoptive mother, Téa Gardner Muto nods proudly and with no small amount of pride in her voice speaks to her soon-to-be adoptive son. "Indeed, I do work here. Inside is where you'll find one of the biggest stages in this City. Rumors say that many of the best dancers of Japan come here to show their best performances."
"The best of Japan!? Here!?", Jaden asked excitedly curious, stars appearing in his eyes as he continued. "That's so COOL! That should make you as Famous as them, right!?"
Téa gave a thumbs up, while Yubel had a curious look on her face at the soon-to-be adoptive mom's fame; They walked inside the performance building, separating when Téa needed to walk to her changing area. The Gardner even got a doorman to supervise and guide Jaden to the stage area; walking through with many other people excited for the performance to the 1st row of seats, the curtains were covering the stage…
Ten minutes later, they raised the curtains; they watched Téa and ten other women walking together. Jaden looked surprised and a little weirded out at the way his mother was dressed, just like the other women.
She switched her clothes for a black fitted top, a hip belt, and a full-length skirt. In other words, it was a 'belly dance' costume set; she was also wearing a mask, to only show her eyes, and her hair was styled into a ponytail design.
The crowd applauded for their presence, the blushing boy receiving a small wave from Téa who was looking at him. And so did other girls who were looking at him… he felt embarrassed; Yubel was enjoying the show so far too early.
The claps stopped and the dance started. What seemed like the sound of bells jiggling, a violin harmony; Téa was the only woman showing up, the other girls standing behind her. She raised her semi-closed hands and swung down slowly, her team copying her slowly as well.
It was 'hypnotizing'. The way how 'real' Illusion of hands growing behind her was turning her into a 'goddess'. Their movements started impressing the crowd even more; adding circles that looked like 'eyes' watching them; holding dance ribbons to move freely in sync.
They couldn't see how fast they were doing all those movements; let alone set their eyes on Téa, who was the one 'feeling' that aura behind her.
"This is… so cool!", Jaden grinning widely rocking back and forth in tune on his seat with the hypnotic movements, wanting to join in. "This is amazing!"
"Much marvelous movement, Tea's hips just can't lie.", Yubel perversely mutters with a nostalgic tone for days long past, while holding Jaden back from interrupting the show. "It's a shame that Yugi is missing such a show like this one. But, he's really lucky to have such a marvelous woman like her, if I say so myself…"
Waves after waves, and illusion movements that Téa's team pulled from their training; Five minutes later, they've completed their show. The crowd got up from their seats and started clapping and whistling loudly. So did Jaden, his Jolly Spirit making him clap his hands as loud as he could.
"Did you regret staying here; instead of reading your Comic Book at home, Jaden?"
The young boy shook his head. "Not at all. This was so, so sweet! Mum is amazing and cool! I had so much fun!"
Yubel agreed. "And so did I, Jaden… Jad… en…"
Location: Helicopter; Time: Present time
"Jaden… Wake up, Jaden.", Jaden was snoring while being pulled by his coat sleeve. "Oi, wake up already, would you?"
"Huh? Wha… What did I miss?", Jaden asked Syrus, the one who woke him up. His eyes were set on the inside of a helicopter, flying its way to the destination – Duel Academy: An isolated island in the Pacific Ocean.
"We're arriving on the island. I can see it from down the window…"
"Now that's sweet to know.", the brown-haired boy grasped his fists. "I can't wait to arrive there and start dueling with everything I got."
Syrus had a restrained smile on his face. "Yeah… of course you would say that."
Location: Duel Academy Harbor
The chopper has landed. With a new term starting in Autumn, the students who passed through the narrow gate of acceptance in Domino City now gather on the academy's island.
All students received their mentioned uniforms, next brought to a classroom with a large monitor on standby. After a while, the monitor projected an old bald man, wearing a dark-red uniform.
"Welcome, my Dueling Elites. I'm the headmaster of this School Academy, Chancellor Sheppard. You all used your skills to open the narrow admission gates. Please have fun studying in hopes of becoming the future King of Games."
The monitor went back on standby; each student who walked away from the classroom received from the staff a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA). It contained all the information the student needed; alongside the currency they would receive for staying on the island.
Duel Points (DP), are a type of island-only currency that a student duelist receives after finishing a duel, as well as the grade the student gets from tests and Duel Exercises from teachers and examinees. It's also determined by the rank dorm the student lives in.
The dorms the students will stay in are divided into three buildings; Slifer Red, Ra Yellow, and Obelisk Blue. The colors of the dorms represent the three Egyptian Gods that exist in Duel World.
"And look at that, my dorm is Slifer Red!", Jaden smiled, looking at the PDA.
"Same as me.", Syrus added. The two students were wearing red blazers and grey pants; they saw a familiar face walking close to them, wearing a yellow jacket and dark grey pants.
"Hey, Bastion. It seems you're wearing a different uniform from us."
Bastion nodded, patting his uniform. "That's because I'm on Ra Yellow. And a mystery to me knowing that you're Slifer Red. Why is that?"
Jaden felt somehow offended. "Hey, I don't like the way you said that. Slifer is a cool card…"
The Ra Yellow student shrugged and walked away. "Well, don't worry about it. I'm going to check my dorm…"
"Sweet! See you in the dorms.", Jaden waved, while Bastion looked back at them.
"I'm aware your dorm is over there.", Ra Yellow's finger pointed in the direction where a silhouette of a small building with a red rooftop could be seen.
Location: Slifer Red Dorm
"What's up with this dorm?", Syrus asked, touching the outside dirty walls, while holding his baggage with the other hand. "It looks like it wasn't clean in years."
"Just ignore it, Syrus. You should take in the sights; Imagine the Ocean view at Sunset or Night with the Full Moon, it'll be awesome!", Jaden waved at him while holding the railing. They walked to the number of their room; Jaden kept his grin on as he turned the doorknob to open the door. "And here it is! This is our room!"
Opening the door, the two boys walked in with the two spirits following, Yubel and Dee standing close to Jaden in the dorm room; as they looked around the place. There were two joint desks; the window on the wall facing the door; a three-person bunk bed on the right wall. Next to the beds, there was a small kitchen room with a stove and cupboards beneath it.
"Well, it's smaller than I expected…", Syrus looked with a half-smile.
"Don't worry, bud. You're a small guy too.", Jaden joked, patting the cringing boy. "But don't worry about the size; this room has all the conditions, so I kinda like it here."
"You think so?", Syrus asked, feeling better. "Ehehe… Well, seeing as we're roommates; we must have some kind of mutual destiny, huh?"
"Mutual destiny… cute term.", Yubel deadpans, crossing her arms with a resigned look on her face.
Dee responds to Yubel's resignation. "Don't be a dour demon, Yubie; it is cute."
'We'll be fine…', Jaden thought idly while placing his baggage in the more spacious parts of the room; still curious about Syrus' comment. "So, what kind of mutual destiny do you have in mind?"
"Eh? Ah, you know… like we could be reincarnations of an ancient Egyptian Pharaoh and Priest. Something like that; because, you know… You looked so powerful and confident during your Entrance Exam Duel…"
A cute pout could be seen on the blonde sorceress's cheek. "If one more nightmare comes from Egypt, I'm cursing someone. Hmph!~… Where's the other mythologies' arsenal of horrors?", she muttered irritably.
Jaden snickered at Syrus's comment and Dee's irritated reply, unheard by the blue-haired teen. "Hey, man… Don't make me too much of a rehash."
"Then… you wouldn't mind if I called you 'Pharaoh'?"
"Ok. Now THAT'S weird."
"What about Big Bro; Because you're so much better?", Syrus insisted.
"There's no superiority among duelists. We're both still learning.", Jaden says with a thumbs up.
"Still... LEARNING?", Syrus looked wide-eyed at Jaden as the blue-haired spoke further. "I'm not even close to your level, and you beat the Professor…"
Jaden empathetically placed his arms on his roommate's shoulders. "Hey, come on; Don't bring yourself down now. You've passed the Entrance Duel as well, didn't you? You might have the potential to become a contender for the Throne of Games."
He then raised the curtain of the window, the sun's light waking up its current but sleeping resident in the room.
"AAAH! Too bright! Put the damn curtains back!", that voice shouts raggedly, making Jaden close the curtains again.
"Huh, there was someone here?", Syrus looked up, and so did Jaden who was sheepishly rubbing his head in surprise.
"Sorry, we didn't know you were here…"
"Well, you know it now.", the rotund student showed his grumpy koala-like face; he was a heavy-set tall guy with a small haircut. When the other new residents looked at him, it felt like they were looking at a familiar Monster Card.
Syrus screamed at the boy while hiding behind Jaden; him looking at the student awkwardly, while Yubel and Dee changed looks.
"Des Koala? Haven't seen one in a while…", the demoness replied with a curious glance at the sleepy student.
"I'm not too familiar with Beast-Type monsters, so I wouldn't guess it.", the sorceress spoke with a ponderous look on her face.
Jaden coughed calmly, introducing himself. "The name's Jaden Yuki, my friend's name is Syrus…"
"… Truesdale, Syrus Truesdale. And you are…"
"Chumley Huffington, got it?", the sleepy student told them, and then turned his head the other side. "… Like, do you guys know what the Slifer Red color means?"
"Does it have any meaning?", Jaden curiously asked.
"The Red Zone… It means that there's an expectation for us, and it's not a good one."
"Then, what does that mean?", Syrus asked curious as well.
"Like… Do you guys know how Duel Academy assigned you to one of the three dorms? Your grades will decide whether you become Obelisk Blue, Ra Yellow, or Slifer Red; while Obelisk Blue is occupied with excellent grades since middle school; new students that enter via the entrance exam in high school and have excellent grades are placed in Ra Yellow."
"So, that's what you meant by 'Expectation'.", Jaden mutters a bit disheartened at the reputation the Red Dorm had Garnered. "Does that mean…"
"That we're in danger? Yes! They put students with awful grades in this dorm, who are expected to drop or flunk out the Academy.", Chumley's statement felt like a bullet through the chest for the insecure Syrus' self-esteem.
"Oh, come on. It's not that bad to be in this dorm…", Jaden tried to console.
"You say that now, but you were sent here. It's an unofficial part of orientation for the Reds. Trust me, I know…"; Chumley concluded, placing his cheek on the pillow to sleep again.
Yubel sighed, while Dee looked sadly at Syrus.
"Poor kid. This wasn't the best way to introduce ourselves to the Slifer dorm; the Egyptian God that Yugi possesses."
"Then that means that we have much work to be done… don't we, Prince?", Yubel asked Jaden, who gave a confident nod in response, excited to see what they could do to help.
'Oh, sure we do. It won't be this way we'll fall.'
Location: Outside Slifer Red Dorm
Syrus sighed after getting to meet the third-party member of their room.
"Still depressed?", Jaden asked.
"Aren't you? You heard it from the 'cheery' welcoming party, right?"
Jaden didn't let himself down, slowly shaking his head.
"You need to get your spirit up, Sy. Red is one of my favorite colors, you know?", that comment made the depressed boy look at Jaden raising his closed fists, inspired. "'Crimson Moons, Boiling Blood… Dueling with seething Scarlet Passion, this is perfect for me!"
"Eh… Scarlet passion? Did you have a Girlfriend before this? Lucky…"
Before Jaden could have a spit-take from Syrus' comment, he looked at his new friend's doubtful-looking face and decided consoling his friend was more important. "Don't look too down on yourself, man. We haven't gotten started yet; this is our first day here. We just gotta build!"
"Y… Yea, you're right!", Syrus nodded and closed his fists as well. "Getting depressed is pointless! Hot Blooded, Syrus! Fight On!"
"Now you're talking my language, pal!", Jaden felt relieved; his duelist instincts made him flinch, as he looked at the school Arena. "Changing the subject, I guess a duel is happening somewhere."
"You're 'guessing', Big Bro? What are you, a 'Duel Sensor'?", Syrus followed where Jaden was running. "Oh, man. I didn't hear anything."
Location: Duel Academy Stadium
Jaden had his 'Duel Radar' following him to the main Arena of the School. "I can smell it! A duel is going to happen here…"
"So, a duel has a smell too? I could only smell tomorrow's sandwiches for breakfast.", Syrus saw Jaden walking to the Duel Arena. "A… Are you sure you should barge in like that?"
"Why wouldn't we? This place is so cool!", Jaden looked everywhere; Syrus did as well, and grinned when he looked at the Duel Field.
"It is! They even have the latest equipment set for our duels; the sound equipment, and immersion systems. They're all cutting-edge!"
Jaden could feel his excitement flowing in his veins. "This is so nice! I sure would like to have a duel in a place like this!"
He then looked at his friend. "Wanna have one right now?"
"Are you sure we can?"
"I'm afraid you can't."; Jaden and Syrus saw two Obelisk Blue students standing in front of them.
"This is no place for slackers from Slifer Red.", a blue-haired Obelisk Blue boy with glasses informed.
The other boy had brown hair; he pointed his finger to the top, to a certain dorm symbol "Look up there. Didn't you see the Obelisk crest?"
Syrus looked worried. "We apologize, we didn't know. Let's go back to the dorm, Big Bro."
Jaden sighed petulantly.
"Oh, you're no fun; Why don't you two duel us? Wouldn't that be okay for you?"; he asked the two Obelisk Blue.
It took a moment but they recognized this specific Slifer Red. The student who had completely defeated Crowler and his two best monsters with a gleeful smile on his face. The only Slifer Red worth a glance from on high from the heights of Obelisk Blue.
"So, you're the #50 examinee."
"You hear that, Chazz? This is the one who beat the Professor!", the brown-haired lackey called their boss. Who was lying on the stairs close to the benches, listening to the conversation with some idle interest…
Jaden gave a welcoming wave to the leading Obelisk Blue. "Pleased to meet ya, Chazz. Do you want to jump on this bandwagon?"
Chazz felt insulted, while the two lackeys looked surprised at Jaden.
"Why would he face a Slifer Slime like you? Chazz Princeton is not only the best 1st year but is the #1 of the Duelist Prep Schools. He's been a dedicated duelist who's been in the program for a long time now!"
"And for your information, THE Great Chazz Princeton is widely known to be the future King of Games!"
Jaden crosses his arms with a clueless glance aimed at Chazz. "That's headline news to me. Think I would hear about this somewhere. That's weird…"
"And how so?"
"Isn't it obvious? The King of Games has to be the Number 1 of Duel Academy, right?", Jaden pointed a finger on himself. "And the #1 in this Academy is me!"
Syrus felt the confidence from those words and felt just a little more confident himself. "EHHH? Already confessing something like that, Big Bro…"
Meanwhile, the two lackeys were losing their breath from how much they were laughing.
"Such ridiculous arrogance…"
"A Slifer Slacker like you ought to know your pla-"
"Quiet.", Chazz ordered with a tone that brokered no backtalk nor argument that shut the two goons up without him even glancing at them. "Zip your lips for a moment, will you? I can tell that he's better than you two and you know it; his entrance exam victory may have been due to the Professor's recklessness and the Hero Fanatic's luck… but he still defeated Dr. Crowler's Dark Medieval Deck."
Both Yubel and Dee felt annoyed that Jaden's efforts and his step-father's teachings by proxy were being dismissed like that, but the teenager himself didn't mind it…
"What you call 'luck', I call it 'skill'!"
"Oh, really?", Chazz said with a curious look that was akin to a predator studying his prey; "I would gladly take a look at that skill you have."
"Oh, it's on!", Jaden retorts with a big grin on his face.
A feminine voice joined the five-man group in the arena.
"Well, well… quite the diverse crew of clowns, please keep the circus going.", a blonde girl deadpans as she enters the arena wearing the female version of Obelisk Blue and walks inside the Stadium. Unlike the boy's uniform, the female uniform consisted of a sleeveless jacket and a skirt that covered her hips.
"Hmm~… A fellow Blondie, I see.", Dark Magician Girl's Spirit says giving a happy glance at the Obelisk Blue.
"Hmhmm~ Her power is something to take notice of", Yubel hums with a curious look on her face, sensing Alexis' energy and comparing it to Chazz and Professor Crowler; It's significantly colder feeling quality. "Tread lightly, Prince."
Chazz haughtily called for her attention; "Why hello there, Ms. Rhodes? I was just about to wipe the floor with our uninvited guest. Would you like to be a part of the audience? It'll be a short duel, but an entertaining one."
'And you're selling yourself a bit high here, bud…', Jaden thought with a smirk, excited for the challenge Chazz presents; Dee giving a sisterly exasperated smile and Yubel giving a deadpan stare filled with support at Jaden's murmurs.
"Rather than watching you two cause a scene; I must inform you that it's time for the dorm welcoming parties to begin."
"Tch. Of course, you would say something like that.", Chazz answered disappointed, leaving the Stadium. "You're no fun. Let's get out of here."
Alexis then looked at Jaden and Syrus. "And you two; try not to get riled up by Chazz, please. You shouldn't need to worry; Not all Obelisks are like them… a bunch of coattail-riding fools."
"Hmm~…", Jaden hummed curiously at Alexis' unexcepted assist. "Going out of your way to tell us about that. Guess I made a good impression with the Professor, right?", he laughed for a bit while pointing at himself and spoke sincerely to Alexis. "Ehehe… but seriously, thanks."
Alexis didn't feel the need to answer his question as if it was obvious; she just stared at the fellow teenager with some curiosity for a moment.
"Slifer Red welcome party will begin as well. You two should go."
"I guess so. Let's go, pal", The two Slifer Reds immediately rushed out of the Stadium in a last-ditch effort to not be late for the welcoming party for the Slifer Dorm; but not before Jaden stopped to take a look back at the blond girl. "By the way, my name's Jaden Yuki. My friend's here is Syrus. And you are…"
For the first time, he saw the blonde girl smiling at him. "Alexis Rhodes. Have a good meal, you two."
"Same for you. Pleased to meet you…"
Syrus looked worried, following Jaden. "Oh great. There goes Jaden's crush…"
Location: Duel Academy Dorms; Time: Nighttime
Some of the students were enjoying their party meals. Obelisk Blues male dorm, their headmaster was Dr. Crowler; in Obelisk Blue girl's dorm, a female red-haired teacher was their headmistress, Nurse Fonda Fontaine; Ra Yellow, an old man in his mid-forties, Professor Sartyr.
For the Slifer Red Dorm, the party was completely different; instead of a big feast like the other dorms, the room was notably bare, with a few tables where only 4 people could eat. To say their Welcoming Dinner conditions were subpar; was a bit of an understatement…
"What is this; Only rice and sardines?"
"The other dorms all got a huge banquet compared to this…"
"And look at our dorm leader; it's a cat!"
At the headmaster's table, a brown and black striped cat was sleeping peacefully on said table. The cat woke up when a tall and skinny teacher walked inside; he had long black hair and a pair of small glasses over his semi-closed eyes. Overall, he looked the part of a passive if bumbling professor…
"I'll be your headmaster of the Slifer Red, Professor Banner-nya.", he presented himself. "And a professor that will oversee alchemy and other science courses. Pleased to meet ya-nya."
"This is great!", Jaden's voice rang out throughout the dorm interrupting the welcoming dinner, while eating said dinner.
"Big Bro, don't eat now…", Syrus asked, sitting next to him. "Professor Banner was introducing everyone, and… oh c'mon! He's walking over here!"
Jaden and Syrus look up to Professor Banner standing in front of them; instead of hearing the teacher complaining, Banner doesn't seem to mind it much.
"No worries No worries, I don't sweat over the small stuff.", he states and looks around the dorm, waving off the interruption. "Children, I look forward to getting to know you all. Let's start eating-nya!"
Yubel and Dee were leaning against the wall, with differing reactions to the seemingly lackadaisical cat lover of a Headmaster.
"Interesting sort to be a leader of this dorm. Unlike the last person we met…" Yubel said idly, unsure of what to make of the man.
Dee nodded, "I hope the other teachers are more relaxed like this guy; I rather not have Jaden fail or be expelled in the first year."; she responded with a sheepish look.
Location: Slifer Red Dorm
Syrus poured tea into three small cups; the two Slifers had finished the celebration dinner and were now in their bedroom.
"I ate so much! My gut is aching a bit…", Jaden says happily while lying on his back on the window wall, his hand rubbing his stomach. "Why didn't you eat much, Sy?"
"It was tasteless for me; You were the only one who had seconds, right?", he answered, carrying the cupboard. Handing one cup to Jaden, he then tried giving one to Chumley…
"No thanks, I'm not thirsty…"
"Really? After all the trouble Syrus went to make tea for us…", Jaden complained.
"It's okay, Big Bro.", Syrus excused. "I'm already used to this."
Jaden's PDA suddenly started beeping; he took it out to see Chazz's face on the screen.
"Jaden Yuki. At midnight, I'll be waiting at the Duel Arena. Let's see if your dueling skills can cash the checks your big mouth wrote; Come if you have the guts."
The screen suddenly turned off, Jaden brimming with excitement for the midnight challenge.
"It's only the first night! Now I gotta throw down!"
Location: Duel Academy Stadium; Time: Midnight
"Big Bro… Alexis said not to let him provoke you. This is a bad idea, I'm telling you."
"Don't sweat it, Sy. For a duelist like me, this challenge is just too good to resist!"
They were walking on the Halls to the Arena, where Chazz was waiting for them with his lackeys. The Obelisk Blue elite was smirking with his duel disk ready…
"I'm impressed that you would accept, Number 50.", Chazz says with a confident tone. "Never thought Slifer Sludge wouldn't slip away from a 1st day bout."
Jaden responds with a confident smile. "Who do you think I am? You were asking so nicely; it would feel disrespectful to refuse a throw-down with you."
"Then show me! Was your victory over Dr. Crowler luck or skill?", Chazz watched Jaden walk up to the Duel Arena, so they could begin their match. "Do you have what it takes to face an elite like me, Number 1 of Duelist Prep?"
"Why wouldn't I? The written part of the Entrance Exam was scarier than you; I struggled a lot to make it here.", Jaden says resolutely as he switches on his Duel Disk. "I'm just getting started! Get your Game On, Chazz!"
Yubel crosses her arms as she accompanies Jaden to the dueling arena with a mischievous smirk to contrast Jaden's genuine smile. "Remember my love. It's not fun to do everything alone…"
Dee sat close to a worried Syrus temporarily turning her wand into an orange #1 Foam Finger and giving a supportive wave. "Give it your best you two, Beat this Blue Blowhard!"
"Big Bro. Don't lose this…"
"DUEL!", Jaden and Chazz shouted.
Turn 1
Chazz (C): 4000 LP
Jaden (J): 4000 LP
"First come, first serve; DRAW!", Chazz sneered as he drew his first card of the duel. "The hunt is on! I summon my Chthonian Hound!"; On his field, the dark fog that appeared was the entryway for a two-headed skeletal dog, with unearthly chains and piercing light coming from its eyes. (ATK 1400 / DEF 0)
(FM) Chthonian Hound: Effect/DARK/Zombie/ATK 1400/DEF 0
(This card is also treated as a Beast-Type monster)
At the end of each Battle Phase, if this card is in the GY because it was tributed by a card effect, or destroyed by battle: Decrease the ATK/DEF of all your opponent monsters by their Level x 100.
A Tribute Summoned 'Chthonian' or 'Infernal' monster using this card as tribute gains this effect: "Once per turn: Gain 500 ATK/DEF"
Due to Yubel being a demoness, she felt an odd kinship with the first monster on the field and those residing in Chazz's deck. "An 'Infernal Deck'? Don't be reckless now Jaden."
He nods in agreement. 'That monster is only the start…'
Chazz picked two cards from his hand and placed them in the Spell/Trap Zone. "I'll set 2 cards face-down. My turn is done!"
He then looks at Jaden, as if gauging him. 'If your duel with Professor Crowler is anything to go by, you're reliant on draws. Luck can only carry you so far. Victory is determined by a precise strategy.'
Turn 2
C: 4000 LP
J: 4000 LP
"It's my turn, I draw!", Jaden drew his card. "Sweet! Take to the Skies, Elemental Hero Stratos!"; On his field emerged a Hero wearing a blue and green costume, wearing wind turbines on his back (ATK 1800 / DEF 300)
"And thanks to my Stratos effect, I can add any 'Hero' monster from my deck to my hand!", Jaden picked up his card from his deck, joining with two other cards in his hand. "And with this, I can now activate the Spell Card, Polymerization!"
Syrus smiling spoke out, "There it is! Wonder what Hero is coming out?"; However, neither Syrus nor Jaden could see a small smirk on Chazz's lips as if he played his opponent without even trying.
"Time to fuse from my hand, The Elemental Hero Liquid Soldier with Burstinatrix!", the two Hero Spirits appeared on his field, fusing to create a vortex of azure fire, as Jaden chanted out.
"'Hero of the Sun; Warrior Born of Sunlight! Lead us to the Dawn; Let the Blaze be Guided by the Stars'! Fusion Summon! Join the fray, Elemental Hero Nova Master!"
A tall caped Hero emerged from the vortex, wearing a general's red and yellow armor and helmet; a red cape billowing from his back, his fiery fists clashing together and to finish showing off his arrival caused the vortex to dissipate (ATK 2600 / DEF 2100)
"How's that? Aren't Fusion Heroes the coolest?", Jaden asked excitedly, enjoying the theatrics his heroes took massive care of perfecting; but his good cheer was stifled a bit due to hearing Chazz laughing from the other side of the arena, as if getting a joke Jaden was unaware took place.
"Why are you laughing?"
"You're asking me to judge your monsters' lack of self-respect or their tacky poses?", Chazz chides Jaden. "If Duel Academy didn't have a room for their love of cosplay or gaudy poses, I would be disappointed…"
Jaden could feel his anger rising a bit at the insult aimed at all the monsters in his deck as he retorts. "You say that like you're not looking at my monster that is stronger than yours."
"Oh, but I am!", Chazz coyly shot back. "… But let me tell you something first, idyllic ingrate: Slifer Red, Obelisk Blue; The vast difference of intelligence between them has already determined this match's result."
"And… What do you mean by that?"
"That means that you fell straight for the Hook, Line, and Sinker; I thoroughly analyzed your entrance exam duel! This is the Big Leagues, Slifer Sludge, and it's time to flush you out!", Chazz's set card flipped up revealing… "I activate my Trap Card, Chthonian Polymer!"
When the trap activated, a dark aura emitted from it; Yubel hummed curiously as if she wasn't expecting this, while looking at the card, "Huh; Didn't see this one coming, Jaden."
Her joking mood continued, "Prepare for Hell, little Hero."
'What do you mean, Yubel?'
"It means that he did his homework and studied up on you!"
'This is not the time...'
Syrus glanced at the card with a look of apprehension. "Where have I heard of that Trap before? Never encountered it during my years of studying… What were its effects?"
"For a duelist, it's common knowledge.", a female voice coolly came from behind him; it was Alexis. "When a Fusion Monster is Fusion Summoned to the opponent's field, you can tribute one monster on your side of the field to gain control of it!"
Dee's eyes widen in surprise, "Then that means… Jaden got ambushed this time!"
Chazz's trap suddenly absorbed the two-headed undead monster into the card, while the boy smirked sadistically. "I'm sacrificing my Chthonian Hound, to take control of your Nova Master!"
The card shot a blast of ghastly energy at Nova Master enveloping the Hero monster in a smokey black aura; Jaden gasped in surprise at seeing his Hero getting possessed and switching places to Chazz's Field. Piercing red eyes could be seen under the helmet the Hero wore, along with taking a more primal posture to signify this unwilling change of allegiance.
"I knew that Fusion Monsters were the Bread and Butter of your deck; To make it so you could play your next cards to protect it, or counter the opponent. That's why I've set this trap for it!", Chazz explained cockily and then jeers further.
"But I'm almost disappointed, though. Professor Crowler giving an inch meant you thought you could run a mile with me; You walked right into my Trap, but that's what you'd expect of Slifer Slime like you."
"Is that so?", Jaden asked, not showing worry nor concern; his tone was showing growing excitement. "If you've paid more attention to my cards, you would know that one of the monsters I sent to my Graveyard was no other than my Liquid Soldier. Did you forget that it has an effect?"
"… Ah, son of-!", Chazz curses out, but not before getting interrupted.
"Exactly! Since my Liquid Soldier was sent to the graveyard as a Fusion Material, I get to draw 2 cards and discard one.", he drew his cards and discarded one from his hand, Jaden's excitement raising for each second.
"And if you guessed I would just play only 1 Fusion Monster this turn, then guess again! I play the Spell Card, Miracle Fusion; by banishing my Elemental Hero Stratos on the field, and Liquid Soldier from my Graveyard, I can Fusion Summon another Hero from my Extra Deck!"
Jaden summoned his Water Hero to his field and then two Spirits merged to form another vortex; But this one was much bigger, so much stronger, even creating dark thunderclouds. One that made Chazz and his lackeys shield themselves with their hands to avoid being buffeted by the raging winds.
"What the hell are these heroes!?", the Obelisk elite shouts. "Will they stop with their theatrics!?", he then saw Jaden closing his eyes, starting to chant.
"'Hero of the Hurricane; Warrior Pure of Instinct! Become the Hunter of Emerald Wind, and Shoot for the Skies! Let the Great Gale refine your Nature'! Fusion Summon! Bring us a Storm, Elemental Hero Great Tornado!"
Jaden's tall Fusion Hero landed on his field; he had green armor with yellow stripes, his helmet resembled a hawk's face; and finally, a ripped-off black cape that covered his left front. (ATK 2800 / DEF 2200).
"Here's my Great Tornado special effect! When is Fusion Summoned, he halves the Attack and Defense of all monsters you control; 'SouthStream Force'!", his Fusion Monster released heavy winds that weakened the possessed Nova Master on Chazz's field, the attack power dropping heavily. (ATK 2600 – 1300 / DEF 2100)
Syrus grinned widely, "Awesome; Now Great Tornado is way stronger than Nova Master! So COOL!"
Dee kept shaking her Foam Finger to each side, showing her best support. "Go, Go, Jaden! Go, Go, Yubel! Hero Power's here to stay any day!"
"Let's go, Great Tornado! Show Chazz our friends' strength, and free your fellow hero Nova Master; 'Spiral Storm'!"; His Wind Hero created a stormy sphere with his hands, and with a vindictive look on its face shot it straight to Chazz's field, destroying the possessed Fire Hero and dealing heavy damage to the opposing teenager.
(C: 4000 – 2500)
The mockery that Chazz was so devoted to giving was flipped on its head as his previous bravado turned to nerves. He could even see the way Great Tornado was looking at him in the eyes; as if he was the cornered prey now. And to add further insult to injury...
"What was that about Luck, Chazz? Did my Hero take the wind out of your sails? Or are you all bark and just no bite!?"
Chazz brushed himself off from the damage, a slight smirk coming to him.
"I won't bark too soon, Slacker. But my monster will bite you… specifically your Great Tornado!"; Suddenly a hellish grey smog appeared and quickly spread over Jaden's field, leaving the Fusion Monster confused.
"What's happening to my Great Tornado?"
"That's my Chthonian Hound's Graveyard effect.", Chazz explained. "Since you battled when my monster was sacrificed by my Trap Card, your monster will lose 100 Attack Points for each Level it has."
From the grey smoke, the undead dog howled at the Wind Hero; a ghastly howl commanding the smoke to wash over him, draining a good bit of the hero's strength (ATK 2800 – 2000 / DEF 2200).
Yubel despite her calm composure due to a long life, couldn't help but be concerned by Chazz's strategies for Jaden's sake. "Something tells me he had us pegged from the very start, beloved…"
'Let him bring whatever he has.', Jaden mentally challenged. 'With the cards I have with me, I'll be fine.'; he then placed two cards on his Spell/Trap Zone.
"I'll throw down 2 face-downs and end my turn!"
Turn 3
C: 2500 LP
J: 4000 LP
"It's my turn!", Chazz drew his card and laughed inside. "Perfect… for now, I activate my set card; my Continuous Trap, Call of the Haunted! It lets me revive Chthonian Hound from my Graveyard!"
His undead canine howled to herald his return to the field (ATK 1400 / DEF 0); then Chazz continued his play further. "And by tributing Chthonian Hound, I Summon the Emissary of our Circle of Hell! Come forth, Mefist the Infernal General!"
In place of the hellhound, came forth a large knight holding a giant axe, on a furious-looking undead red-eyed horse (ATK 1800 / DEF 1700).
Syrus had a confused look. "For an 'Emissary of Hell', he looks weaker than Big Bro's Fusion. It's 200 Attack lower than him…"
"It may seem like it…", Alexis continued. "But a leader always counts on his pawns to become stronger. And I can take it has something to do with his Hound he tributed."
Chazz gave an arrogant nod in Alexis' direction with the blondie rolling her eyes in annoyance.
"It's exactly as Ms. Rhodes says. My Chthonian Hound makes it so that my Mefist gets the effect of gaining 500 Attack Points during each of my turns he's face-up on the field."; his general could feel a crimson aura enveloping him, slowly strengthening the general for any number of trials and tribulations. (ATK 1800 – 2300 /DEF 1700).
Jaden whistled, "It's not every day I see such an effect like that. Impressive…"
"Oh really?", Chazz asked with mock curiosity. "Still confident about what's coming for you; does that smart mouth bring hell to your door wanna take a crack at it with the power you have now?"
"Higher by 300 Attack Points, it's no biggie. I still have my two set cards to protect me…"
Chazz laughed, "Do you? I don't see those pesky traps anywhere on your field. Not after activating this Spell Card; Heavy Storm!"; his Spell Card was revealed, causing an enormous cyclone to storm through Jaden's field. "In case you don't know, this magic trick will make all Spells and Trap cards on the field disappear! Now I wanna see you clap your hands to acknowledge me as your superior."
"Aaaah... dang it!", Jaden grits out as he sees his Traps Draining Shield and Hero Medal getting destroyed and sent to the graveyard.
He then gave out a small chuckle from his devastated field. "It seems although; that by destroying my Hero Medal Trap Card, you helped me activate its effect; when it's destroyed, it's shuffled back to my deck, and then I draw 1 card!"
"Nice Consolation, Slacker. But don't forget that it's still my Main Phase; I activate my Spell Card, Double Summon! Just like the name says, this turn, I'm allowed an additional Normal Summon; Chthonian Soldier, join the ranks and bring the pain!"; next to his General, a wicked Warrior appeared with a giant blade in his hand (ATK 1200 / DEF 1400).
"Let's see if destroying that Hero Medal turned your Hero into a poser, cause it's Time to Battle! Mefist, Destroy his Great Tornado; 'Infernal Charge'!"; The ferocious horse let out a mix of ghastly neigh and a beastly roar as the infernal general ordered it to gallop; while raising his axe to slash Jaden's Hero in two, making the teen shield himself from the impact.
(J: 4000 – 3500)
"Nowhere to hide! Chthonian Soldier, attack him directly; 'Infernal Slash'!"; his furious Warrior jumped while raising his blade, swinging it harshly into Jaden's abdomen. The Slifer Red fell to his knees from the heavy blow with one of his hands on his stomach rubbing it to alleviate some of the pressure, leaving Yubel a little worried and helping him up to get up…
(J: 3500 – 2300)
"Are you okay, my love?"
'I'm fine… never better.', he breathed out while winking at Yubel, to reassure her that he was okay.
"What's wrong, Jaden!?", Chazz mocked with confidence in his voice as he continued. "Without your cards on the field, you're stuck, aren't you? I don't know how things worked in your small town; but here in the Big Leagues, you're just another amateur who shot too high too soon! Have you learned that?!"
Both Yubel and Dee gave a glare at the arrogant student as they thought coincidentally simultaneously. 'How dare he say that…'
A set card was placed on Chazz Spell/Trap Zone. "I set a card face-down, and my turn's done! Feeling like giving up now? It's your turn, and make it quick!"
He could see Jaden with his shoulders slumping and murmuring to himself; the Obelisk duelist thinking to himself that the Slifer Red was starting to cry from frustration. However, a loud joyous laugh proved his answer wrong…
"I'm touched!", Jaden laughs out in relief shown in his big grin, and Chazz grits his teeth in anger at the Red's infuriating optimism. "Duel Academy sure is a fun place! If I'm facing a tough duelist like you, I can't wait to see what more this island will show me! And this is just the first day; I'm getting so excited!"
Alexis looked at Syrus with a confused but small smile. "Was he always this optimistic? Even at a large disadvantage, fewer Life Points than his opponent, and no cards on his field?"
"I'm also as impressed as you are…", Syrus admits with a sheepish smile on his face. "But that's what makes Big Bro so cool! I can't wait to see what more he has in his toybox!"
Dee smiles mischievously at the blue-haired student, 'You're in for a treat this year... Little Blue.'
Turn 4
C: 2500 LP
J: 2300 LP
"My turn, Draw!", Jaden drew his card. "I play my Spell Card, E – Emergency Call! From my deck, I'll add an 'Elemental Hero' to my hand. And I'll Summon it, it's my Elemental Hero Bubbleman!"
A white-capped hero wearing a light-blue bulky suit appears with a bubble burst on his field, holding a mini blaster on his right arm (ATK 800/DEF 1200).
(A) Elemental Hero Bubbleman: Effect Monster/WATER/Warrior/Lv 4/ATK 800/DEF 1200
If this card is the only card in your hand, you can Special Summon this card. If this card is Summoned, if you control no other cards: Draw 2 cards.
"And I'm activating Bubbleman's effect; Since he's the only card on my field, I'm drawing 2 cards from my deck!", Jaden drew his cards.
"Sweet! I got really lucky this time; what is a hero without his gear to fight his foes? I equip my Bubbleman with Bubble Blaster!", a giant Water Blaster was placed over the monster's shoulder. (ATK 800 – 1600 / DEF 1200)
"Now his Attack Power is raised by 800! With this, I'm starting my Battle Phase; Bubbleman, take the Chthonian Soldier down! 'Big Bubble Beam'!"; The hero aimed his Giant Bubble Blaster at the infernal monster and released a large stream of raging water; the Wicked Hero was thrown off on his feet by the water blast, funnily flailing from the liquid pressure to fall flat on his backside, while Chazz took damage.
(C: 2500 – 2100 LP)
A sword quickly swung from the top and hovered above the fallen Warrior, making Jaden look at the blade with tense curiosity; Chazz explained with a vindictive grin. "It's Chthonian Soldier's effect; Since you destroyed it by battle, you're also taking the same damage that I took from this battle!"
The sword aimed itself at Jaden and shot toward him at high speeds; striking Jaden again but hitting the right side of his abdomen, causing him to clutch it to alleviate the pressure.
(J: 2300 – 1900 LP)
"Oh boy, I'm really in the deep end, aren't I?", Jaden asked himself with a tired grin; he picked a card from his hand and placed it in his Spell/Trap Zone. "I throw down a face-down and end my turn."
Turn 5
C: 2100 LP
J: 1900 LP
"It's time to end this chump; It's my move, Draw!", Chazz smiled triumphantly as he looked at his new card. "Well, well. Looks like a Goddess of Luck is smiling upon me, Slacker! I activate my Spell Card, Blasting Vein!"
(A) Blasting Vein: Normal Spell
Destroy 1 Set Spell/Trap Card you control: Draw 2 cards.
"As much you like to draw your cards, I'll be doing it as well; by destroying my Set Trap!", Chazz's card suddenly got vaporized into pixels, while the boy drew his cards. "And to let you know, I had planned to set this trap for a reason; I'm now revealing its Graveyard effect! Trap Card Chthonian Virtues, activate!"
(FM) Chthonian Virtues: Continuous Trap
If this set card is destroyed by a Spell or Trap and is sent to the GY: Special Summon 1 Level 4 or lower 'Chthonian' monster from your Hand or GY. If a Set card you control would be destroyed by your opponent's Spell or Trap, you can banish this card from your GY instead.
"This is bad news for you, Slacker!", Chazz stated to Jaden as he explained his trap with an arrogant sneer. "Thanks to my Trap's destruction, Chthonian Hound will be Special Summoned from my Graveyard again!"
His undead two-head canine returned to his field, (ATK 1400/DEF 0) growling in anger at being used again as a sacrifice. "And by tributing my Chthonian Hound, I'll present you… with the Dark Dragon of the Underworld! Spread your Hellborn Wings, Chthonian Emperor Dragon!"
The dog gave a loud wail of a howl, to give a ghastly welcome as a fiery portal appeared on Chazz's side of the field; where a Darkened Steel-clad Dragon with a long tail and wings emerged; the Giant Dragon roared in hunger at Jaden's side of the field next to its General (ATK 2400 / DEF 1500).
"First a General, and now an Emperor Dragon.", Jaden says giving out an impressed whistle in slight awe at the dragon's appearance. "I take this is an honor…"
"The honors are all mine, small-town chump! Or did you forget? My Chthonian Hound will give extra power to my monsters, since it was used as a sacrifice!", Chazz crossed his arms while laughing cruelly; as his two monsters were enveloped in a crimson aura billowing around them, strengthening them.
Mefist (ATK 2300 – 2800 / DEF 1700)
Emperor Dragon (ATK 2400 – 2900 / DEF 1500)
Syrus could feel bullets of cold sweat sliding down his face. "This… this is getting intense. Just look at how hard both sides are going at it."
Chazz raised his finger. "My victory is in sight; Let's Battle! Chthonian Emperor Dragon, destroy his Bubbleman; 'Infernal Flame'!", his furious Dragon released a flaring burst from his jaw, shooting it directly at Jaden's Hero.
"… I'm activating Bubble Blaster's special effect; Instead of Bubbleman getting destroyed by battle, I can destroy Bubble Blaster; preventing also from taking battle damage!"; Jaden placed the Equip Card on the Graveyard, the Water Hero losing his Equip Card and getting weaker (ATK 1600 – 800 / DEF 1200)
"It doesn't matter. My Mefist will now attack your Bubbleman, and you don't have enough Life Points to save yourself! Go, 'Infernal Charge'; Destroy him!", the General ordered his horse to run straight to the Hero, his Axe ready to swing…
"BIG BRO!", Syrus screamed…
'Jaden, NOW…', the demoness ordered.
"You got it! I activate my Trap, Hero Backup!", Mefist' Axe suddenly cut Bubbleman in half, and the attack pressure clashed against a shield protecting the Slifer teen. Chazz's eyes widen to see his revealed card.
(FM) Hero Backup – Normal Trap
If you would've taken battle damage from a battle involving your "Elemental Hero": Pay 1000 LP; You take no damage from that battle, also, send many cards equal to that monster's Level from the top of your deck to the Graveyard.
"Hero… Backup!?"
"Always nice to have a Backup Plan!", Jaden says happily as he continues explaining the card's effect. "Now by paying 1000 Life Points, I take no damage from this battle; and I'm able to send 4 cards from the top of my deck!"
(J: 1900 – 900 LP)
"Why… you…", Chazz's fists were shaking from anger but then switched to his composed smirk. "Don't get so cocky, you sniveling rat! 99% of duels are decided by the intellect; Luck constitutes only 1%. You have no cards to defend yourself against my Mighty Beasts, and only 1 card in your hand! This duel's victor has already been decided, no matter what happens next; I end my turn…"
Turn 6
C: 2100 LP
J: 900 LP
"I'll risk it all on that 1% of luck. My draw will create a miracle…"; Jaden drew his card. "It's my turn, I Draw!"
Some footsteps could be heard from outside the Arena; they belonged to the guards who were supervising the halls of the Stadium. Alexis noticed from far away and warned.
"The Nighttime Guard is coming! You're using the facilities outside of school hours; it could mean expulsion for breaking this rule."
"EH? On the first day, they're that strict on expulsion?", Syrus panicked. "Big Bro, let's leave this place already!"
"Aw come on.", Jaden pouts and complains further. "There's no way they would expel us for duels like this…"
Alexis with an irritated sigh pulled out her PDA and read the general rule for this situation.
"Didn't you read the students handbook? I'm pretty sure everyone should be aware of this rule… especially the Obelisk Blue students.", That remark was targeting a now-embarrassed Chazz.
"… We'll end it here. Next time, no security to save you from me!", he says with an angry scowl while leaving the stage with his two cronies but leaving this verbal parting shot. "You wield your power like a small kid on a sugar rush! I hope you crash soon."
The duel holograms faded away, the two duel-disks turning off automatically; leaving Jaden to let out a sigh of relief, but still grinning to himself, Yubel standing next to him with an impish grin on her face.
"He wouldn't survive this turn, would he?"
'Not a chance, Yubel. And you know it…', Jaden answered her, turning his tail to leave the Stadium together with Syrus and Alexis
Location: Outside Duel Academy Stadium
"You two are so stubborn…", Alexis crossed her arms with a bemused look to the 2 Slifers. "After I had warned you that messing with Chazz would be a massive mistake."
"Sorry about that… Just couldn't help myself.", Jaden answers, slightly embarrassed. "After his request to test my skills, refusing a duel like that would've been criminal. Guess I've forgotten them in my rush."
"Big Bro… you can duel him again the next day, earlier hours.", Syrus answered. "It's still better than getting busted by the guards and not getting to duel again."
"But…"
Alexis interrupted their conversation. "Anyways; How did you like the Obelisk Blue 'Welcoming'?"
"Scary…", Syrus answers worriedly. "I'm nervous about the next few days, honestly."
"As for me, it wasn't too bad.", Jaden says glibly. "I only wished it lasted a bit longer to 'end' the duel."
"End?", the blonde asked with a curiously snarky look. "You were on the verge of losing the duel and probably get humiliated by Chazz tomorrow. That's how he was during Duelist Prep to now, as tiresome as it sounds."
"Nope… I would have that duel in the bag!", Jaden says confidently, showing off the two cards he had in his hand for Syrus and Alexis to look at.
"Monster Reborn, 'Hero Flash!'?", Syrus saw those cards, looking confused. "How would you win the duel, Big Bro?"
"Simple… Hero Flash is a Spell that lets you banish the Spells 'H – Heated Heart', 'E – Emergency Call', 'R – Righteous Justice' and 'O – Oversoul' from my Graveyard; So that I can Special Summon a Normal 'Hero' from my deck. I still had Sparkman in my deck during our duel."
"But I don't remember you playing the other 3 Spells. How would it work?", Alexis asked.
"Liquid Soldier's effect; the card I discarded was 'H'. And thanks to Hero Backup, I was able to send 'R' and 'O'.", Jaden told them excitedly. "I had the conditions set up to activate the Hero Flash Spell Card."
"That's awesome, Big Bro.", then Syrus thought further, asking. "But Chazz had stronger monsters, compared to the Hero you would pick. What would Sparkman, and Monster Reborn do to help you in that matter?"
Then Alexis smiled in sudden recognition.
"I get it. Hero Flash has another effect; During that turn, Normal 'Hero' monsters can attack directly. Monster Reborn would let you summon Burstinatrix from your Graveyard to finish the deal," she surmised.
"Bingo!", Jaden grinned, walking away. "Well, we're going back to our dorm! See ya later, Lex."
"Big Bro, wait!", Syrus says frantically to Jaden, trying to keep up with him. The blonde girl kept watching them from afar, her small smile growing into a challenging one.
"Jaden, what else are you hiding? Nothing a good duel can't answer…"
– END OF CHAPTER 4 –
– EPILOGUE –
Location: Obelisk Blue Dorm, Chazz's Room
Chazz looks out the window of his room, at the full moon; still in his Obelisk Blue uniform, remembering the duel he did against Jaden. He can only guess the results of their heated encounter.
He's picking the card he drew, thanks to the 'Blasting Vein' Spell Card he activated last turn.
"Contract with the Infernal Emperor"
(FM) Contract with the Infernal Emperor
Normal Spell
Fusion Summon 1 FIRE Fusion Monster from your Extra Deck, using monsters from your hand or field as Fusion Materials. If you use a Level 5 or higher FIRE monster as Fusion Material, you can also banish monsters from your GY as material.
"This card would allow me to Fusion Summon my Ace Monster. But still, would it change the match I had with that punk!?", Chazz asked himself with a glare at his card and threw the card to his bed. "… No. I would've won that duel, no matter what he would play. It's been always like this. I need to keep winning. They all need to know… whose above them!"
He walked away from his room, very tired from the duel with the Slifer Red and needing fresh air. He left his deck on the bedside table, unaware of what it held deep inside; containing the numerous laments of defeated duelists Chazz had faced, humiliations given by him; and the swears of hatred and revenge given by many. The Chthonian Monsters were nothing more than puppets of destruction, and their host's anger was what fed them.
The Chthonian Deck was, after all, Chazz's Chain to his personal Hell.