This story was done in collaboration between me, Jriddle41 (Sodormatchmaker on DeviantART), and DaveMan1000 (both here and on DeviantART), and we own the OCs that are used in the story. AaronCottrell97 (known as stevecottrell on DeviantART) provided the Duel Layouts and additional ideas. Everything else belongs to their respective owners:
Thomas and Friends (c) Hit Entertainment and Mattel
The Railway Series (c) Rev Wilbert Awdry
Yu-Gi-Oh! (c) Konami
Song used in Intro and Outro (c) Unknown
Gundam SEED characters, Orb, Blue Cosmos, M1 Astray, Strike Rouge, Murasame (c) Sunrise
Character of Lisa Drake (c) DaveMan1000
Character of David Xadashi (c) DaveMan1000
WARNING: Once again, this story is rated T for violence, some blood, suggestive themes, and some language. Reader discretion is advised.
WARNING 2: If you haven't read "Yu-Gi-Oh! The Sodor Chronicles Season 2", "Yu-Gi-Oh! The Sodor Chronicles Season 4", "Yu-Gi-Oh! The Sodor Chronicles (Pyramid of Light", "David Xadashi", "Lisa Drake", or "Team 4D's", you might want to do so before reading this story
On a stage inside the Orb Duel School, five face-down cards were lined up on a large blackboard. On cue, David Xadashi and Lisa Drake both showed up and began speaking to the audience.
"Hello, and welcome to the 'This week's noteworthy cards' segment!" announced David.
"This is where we both go over the most important cards that are to be used in duels throughout our adventures," added Lisa, before she and her friend motioned their arms to the blackboard, "There are five cards of a duel we wish to share with you, and they are as follow!"
The five face-down cards on the blackboard all automatically turned over and revealed themselves to be:
-'Goyo Catapult' (Synchro Monster Card)
-'Feast of the Wild LV5' (Spell Card)
-'Battleguard King' (Effect Monster Card)
-'Destiny Break' (Trap Card)
-'Goyo King' (Synchro Monster Card)
"Lisa-chan, take a look at that one!" cried David, looking at the middle card ('Battleguard King').
"Once per turn: You can Tribute any number of Warrior monsters, except this card; for each Tributed monster, this card gains 1 additional attack during each Battle Phase this turn," Lisa read, before shivering, "Oh man, talk about a dangerous monster to fight against."
"You can say that again," agreed David, before he resumed talking to the audience, "Wow! You're all lucky! Expect more of these segments to come in the future!"
"Be sure to keep rooting for us in our battles!" finished Lisa, also talking to the audience once more. She waved goodbye, "Have a good night, everybody!"
The audience cheered and clapped in response.
(Inside a large laboratory, several scientists are scattering about as a machine containing the image of a large purple spider is about to explode. Among the scientists was Matt Fudo's Father, Dr. Fudo, raising the alarm. Alas, the machine exploded in a gigantic blaze, presumably claiming the lives of those inside the place. Several years later, we see Matt Fudo riding about on his Duel Runner, Fudo Go, as the title appeared.)
Yu-Gi-Oh! 6D's: Legend of the Six Dragons
(After the title, Matt watched over the city of 'Hartford - Connecticut' as his 'Stardust Dragon' flew overhead. Michael Atlas, meanwhile, was driving through town on Wheel of Fortune as his 'Red Dragon Archfiend' flew above him, nearly bumping into James R.'s Blackbird who was driving by with his own 'Black-Winged Dragon' flying above him. In a swirl of rose petals, Carlie Izayoi, riding Bloody Kiss and wearing a completely new Victorian-styled outfit, brought forth her 'Black Rose Dragon'. Suddenly, David Xadashi and Lisa Drake both double team and call out 'Life Stream Dragon' and 'Ancient Fairy Dragon' respectively.)
I see my future in the great beyond.
Let's face it, my way of thinking doesn't correspond,
with thieves and liars in the deepest dark.
Despite this, I've gotta try to light the spark.
(Sherry LeBlanc casually fanned her long blonde hair as she made a short turn to look out into the distance before her Duel Runner, Sturm und Drang, appeared behind her. Sherry was soon joined by both Elsworth and a young man with spiky purple and aqua-colored hair by the name of Shinji Weber. The scene then changed to outside David's home in 'Manchester - England', which showed his family; namely his Father (Ren), Mother (Futaba), and younger sister (Gabriella), plus his two best friends in both Sean Smith and Janice Kings. Outside the Orb Duel School in Hartford, the Astray trio Asagi Caldwell, Mayura Labatt, and Juri Wu Nien stood with their teachers Erica Simmons and Ledonir Kisaka, plus the school's head mechanic Kojiro Murdoch and his assistants, and the headmaster Patrick Zimmerman. Outside Industrial Illusions in San Francisco, Discord J. Crawford and Zack Ruaka both wave. Finally, there was Rex Godwin, with Lazar standing by his side, turning about before staring firmly at the head Dark Signer with the Spider Mark. Just what did those two have in common? Eventually, Matt activated the auto shuffle format of his wrist dealer as Fudo Go activated. Thankfully, he wasn't alone; his girlfriend, Ashima Nilgiri, was also by his side.)
I might feel buried six feet deep today.
Can't let tomorrow be the same.
Don't care what mind games they try to play.
I know I'll be okay.
(In a meadow-like clearing, Lisa's Father Jak and Paternal Grandfather Damas, plus members of their special forces group known as 'The All-Star Squad, watched in shock as several large walls of purple flames ignited from the ground. A giant stone heart then exploded into darkness before creating gigantic, hulking creatures known only as the 'Earthbound Immortals'.)
So I keep on riding, and keep on fighting,
so hopes and wishes always shine.
I might get battered, bruise and bleed,
but I'll still say I'm fine!
(The six Signer Dragons took flight and began battling against the wicked beings before, eventually, 'Stardust Dragon' and 'Red Dragon Archfiend' both evolved into much more powerful forms known as 'Majestic Star Dragon' and 'Majestic Red Dragon'. They were said to be stronger than even that of 'Shooting Star Dragon' and 'Red Nova Dragon' respectively.)
Cause I'm trying to be a better me,
who can end all the strife.
My life, will create a guiding light!
(The evolved 'Stardust' and 'Red Dragon Archfiend' monsters both flew overhead above the Nasca Lines, the Spider Mark glowing purple. Down below, Megan Haw was smiling as she snapped pictures of the two dragons with her camera.)
So I keep on riding, and keep on fighting!
(In a chamber, the seven Dark Signers gathered at a large table as the eyes of their leader were shown. Finally, the six Signers and all of their allies appeared once more along with the Signer Dragons as the title returned one last time.)
Yu-Gi-Oh! 6D's: Legend of the Six Dragons
Title: Better Call Paul
Opening up in the streets of Manhattan (New York City) at around noon, almost a month had passed ever since Sergey Volkov's defeat and subsequent arrest in Hartford, where he, under the possession of darkness from an unknown source, led a group of delinquents to capture the Orb Duel School from Patrick Zimmerman. When news of the takeover broke, it resulted in Rex's new Duel Monsters tournament being canceled and started statewide protests for the governor to do something to help the governor of Connecticut negotiate the release of Orb. To help calm the citizens of New York City and prevent anything worse from ensuing, Rex got the idea to call upon General Damas Drake—who was Lisa Drake's Paternal Grandfather—and 'The All-Star Squad' in order to help maintain the peace within the massive city for at least a few months until it was safe enough to leave. Even after Sergey's defeat, General Damas and his group remained in New York City on high alert.
(elsewhere…)
In upper Manhattan, a few members could be seen walking down the streets on patrol, although they did wave to a few citizens as if to say "Hi" to them and let them know that "Things are currently a-okay in these parts".
(elsewhere…)
Inside a pizza diner in Brooklyn, a few members were enjoying a small lunch break before returning to their patrol duties.
(elsewhere…)
On Staten Island, some members could be seen on the roofs of some apartment buildings, looking out into the distance using their binoculars. So far, everything seemed peaceful to them, which was a good thing.
(elsewhere…)
Somewhere in Queens, General Damas and his (General Damas) partner, Jak (Lisa's Father), were patrolling the streets in their jeep. While they were glad nothing bad was going on, they were feeling particularly bored without any action to entertain them.
"So far, this day has been trouble free," remarked General Damas, looking around the street cautiously.
"Sure, sure," sighed Jak, driving the jeep, "But you know something, sir, I do wish there'd be a little more action once in a while. There's not been any sort of excitement in the city for a few days now."
General Damas chuckled, "Well, you sure sound like your daughter, colonel," he pointed out playfully, "However, I have to share your comments on there not being any excitement around here. It would be nice to have some fun during our patrol."
Ask and you shall receive… While driving onto another street, General Damas and Jak both overheard a young woman letting out a scream.
"Sir! Did you hear that?!" asked Jak urgently.
"Yes, and it sounds like a robbery," said General Damas seriously, before smirking with confidence, "Itching for some action colonel?"
"Oh yeah!" Jak grinned back, "Let's go take care of business—good old butt-kicking style!"
With that said, the jeep started to move faster, aiming to reach whoever had shrieked.
(elsewhere…)
In another part of Queens, Paul, riding his Security Duel Runner, was waiting at a traffic light stop. He had just stopped at a coffee shop to pick up a hot cappuccino and a small box of freshly baked donuts, keeping the latter sitting in a compartment for safekeeping.
"Mmm! These donuts smell so good! Sure wish I could have one now, but I have to wait until I'm back at the station," breathed Paul, sniffing the delicious odor of donuts. He then took hold of his cup of coffee, "On the other hand, this cappuccino sure is…"
The gruff police officer started to sip his cappuccino, when, all of a sudden, a jeep zoomed right back, causing him to spit out his hot drink in complete surprise.
"What the-?!" cried Paul, before looking in the direction of the jeep, "Don't these guys know how to drive in this city?!" He narrowed his eyes, "Well, it looks like they'll have me to deal with, now."
Once the traffic light turned green, he revved up his Duel Runner and started giving chase. General Damas and Jak both were driving as fast as they could to where they heard the scream of a young woman. Soon, however, they started hearing the sirens of the NYPD.
"Eh? Sir, I think we're being followed by somebody…" mused Jak, looking into the rear view mirror and noticing (to his dismay) Paul behind him (Jak) and General Damas, "Crap! It had to be Paul Truman of the NYPD!"
"You two in the jeep!" shouted Paul, "Pull over to the side! You're currently speeding!"
General Damas was not thrilled when he (General Damas) heard that he and Jak had to pull over; the reason for their quick driving was because a young woman was in-trouble. Without any choice, Jak slowed the jeep to a stop near the sidewalk, while Paul also pulled up, climbed off the Security Duel Runner, and approached the two members of 'The All-Star Squad'. As Jak put the jeep in park, General Damas quickly whispered something to him (Jak).
"Put out a C.T.A. to the nearest 'All-Star'," he suggested quietly, "I'll set Officer Truman straight."
"Well now, what do we have here?" frowned Paul, walking over to the two high-ranking members of 'The All-Star Squad', "Two jokers who don't seem to know that we don't allow speeding in this city. What do you have to say for yourselves?"
"Officer, there has been a simple misunderstanding here," General Damas stated calmly.
"Oh?"
"He's right, 'officer'," added Jak, a little more aggressively and with a touch of venom on the last word, "We picked up a disturbance in this area, and you're keeping us from it!"
"Heh! Yeah right," huffed Paul, rolling his eyes, "That's what they all say. Excuses, excuses! Why can't anyone in this city just obey the traffic laws like good citizens? This is why we have so many car accidents!" He pulled out a small notepad and a pen and started to write up a ticket, "Looks like you two will have to get a ticket for your troubles."
Before anything else could be said to escalate the situation, another scream belonging to a young woman (the same one) could be heard in the area—nearby, in fact. On the other side of the street, a young woman was seen struggling with two delinquents, who were trying to get a hold of her purse.
"Over there!" Jak pointed out.
"What?" blinked Paul.
The two purse snatchers got a hold of the young woman's purse and started making a run for it. Fortunately, General Damas and Jak both were ready for action.
"Ready, colonel?" began General Damas.
"Ready, sir!" replied Jak.
General Damas climbed back into the jeep and sped off down the road, following the path of the two culprits. Jak meanwhile pulled a small, metal disc off his back, which expanded into a bigger, oval-shaped metal plate with two tail fins and a metal bumper, with the underside giving a light blue glow. He then hopped onto the device as it hovered slightly over the ground. Using the jetboard in question, Jak pursued the two thieves directly. The snatchers ran faster upon seeing Jak hot on their tails. They tried to lose him by going through a patch of trees, but he simply weaved through the foliage with little effort.
"You can make it easy for yourselves, kids!" threatened Jak, "Just drop the purse, and we'll go easy on you!"
"Get bent, 'All-Star'!" One of the snatchers yelled back.
"Shut up!" The other snatcher ordered, just as he spotted what looked like a clear road ahead with an alleyway on the other side, "Look over there! There's our exit!"
However, as they made a final sprint towards their goal, out of nowhere, General Damas pulled up in the jeep, blocking them. He then pulled out a long staff and pointed the end at the two thieves, the tip giving off some sparks of electricity.
"Don't move," he ordered sternly, to which the two boys obliged out of fear.
As he was catching up to the scene, Jak brought a finger to his ear communicator and spoke into it.
"We got 'em, Sly, do your thing," requested Jak.
"Roger that," A smooth voice (male) responded on the other end.
Hopping off his jetboard and retracting it, Jak walked up behind the snatchers, sandwiching them between himself and General Damas. The scene was beginning to attract a lot of attention from civilians, including the young woman who was robbed.
"Now then, I believe you both have something that doesn't belong to you," commented Jak harshly.
"Y-Y-You don't scare us, man!" The first boy stammered, trying in vain to sound in-control.
"Yeah!" The second boy bragged, "You want it? Why don't you take it?"
"Don't mind if I do," smirked Jak, taking the refusal as a challenge, "Oh, and just for the record, don't say I didn't warn you."
The boys jumped as a big, sharp, gold hook on the tip of a cane emerged from a tree above them and snatched the purse from the hands of the thief holding it. With their targets unfocused, Jak lunged forward and delivered a spinning uppercut to the first thief, followed up by a ground pound onto the second one from the air. The impressive acrobatic display earned Jak several cheers from the crowd, praising him and General Damas for catching the two delinquents. As that was going on, Jak approached the young woman whose purse was taken. Snapping his figures and holding out his hand, the same big, sharp, gold hook lowered down and passed the purse onto him.
"Thanks, Sly," Jak said, as he handed the purse back to the young woman, "Here you are, ma'am. I assure you nothing valuable was taken from it."
"Oh, thank you!" The young woman gushed.
The nearby watchers all started cheering, clapping, and whistling over the successful subduing of a pair of purse snatchers by two (seemingly three) members of 'The All-Star Squad'. As a dumbfounded Paul watched the scene, he already knew that he was going to be in very deep trouble with the higher ups when he got back to the NYPD headquarters.
(elsewhere…)
Twenty minutes later, Paul had returned to the NYPD headquarters in lower Manhattan and was in the process of speaking to his superior about his latest goof up.
(inside…)
Inside the police chief's office, Sam was shaking his head in disapproval when the explanation finally came to an end.
"Paul, Paul, Paul… Paul," groaned Sam, obviously very disappointed as a discouraged Paul listened to him (Sam), "And here I thought you finally showed some improvement after you assisted in the capture of Sergey Volkov at Orb," He sat down at the desk, "Instead, you pulled over General Damas when he was after some purse snatchers and nearly let them get away."
"I'm so sorry, sir," apologized Paul, looking down slightly.
"I'm afraid sorry isn't going to cut it, this time," The voice of Sam rebutted grimly, causing Paul to look up with big time concern. He then brought up some important things to the gruff police officer, "You're still on thin ice for your recent boneheaded actions—I assume you know what they are, yes?"
Paul said nothing, but it's obvious he knew what his earlier actions were.
"If you don't shape up soon, then there's a chance…" The voice of Sam went on, just as he started looking through some papers, "…you will either be suspended from the force for a whole year without pay or you will be fired altogether. Do I make myself clear?"
"Uh… Yes, sir," obeyed Paul sadly.
"Please understand that I don't want to do any of those things to you," reassured Sam, standing back up, "But we also can't keep having these forms of screw ups, and I have to do something if they continue happening," He pointed at the exit, "Now, you may leave."
(outside…)
Paul exited from the office and started walking down the hallway to the kitchen. On his way there, he started to think back to his latest screw up in the form of a flashback.
FLASHBACK
On the streets in Queens, Flashback Paul, riding his Security Duel Runner, was chasing after Flashback General Damas and Flashback Jak in their jeep.
"You two in the jeep!" shouted Flashback Paul, "Pull over to the side! You're currently speeding!"
Flashback General Damas was not thrilled when he (Flashback General Damas) heard that he and Flashback Jak had to pull over; the reason for their quick driving was because a young woman was in-trouble. Without any choice, Flashback Jak slowed the jeep to a stop near the sidewalk, while Flashback Paul also pulled up, climbed off the Security Duel Runner, and approached the two members of 'The All-Star Squad'.
"Well now, what do we have here?" frowned Flashback Paul, walking over to the two high-ranking members of 'The All-Star Squad', "Two jokers who don't seem to know that we don't allow speeding in this city. What do you have to say for yourselves?"
"Officer, there has been a simple misunderstanding here," Flashback General Damas stated calmly.
"Oh?"
"He's right, 'officer'," added Flashback Jak, a little more aggressively and with a touch of venom on the last word, "We picked up a disturbance in this area, and you're keeping us from it!"
"Heh! Yeah right," huffed Flashback Paul, rolling his eyes, "That's what they all say. Excuses, excuses! Why can't anyone in this city just obey the traffic laws like good citizens? This is why we have so many car accidents!" He pulled out a small notepad and a pen and started to write up a ticket, "Looks like you two will have to get a ticket for your troubles."
Before anything else could be said to escalate the situation, another scream belonging to a young woman (the same one) could be heard in the area—nearby, in fact. On the other side of the street, a young woman was seen struggling with two delinquents, who were trying to get a hold of her purse.
"Over there!" Flashback Jak pointed out.
"What?" blinked Flashback Paul.
The two purse snatchers got a hold of the young woman's purse and started making a run for it.
END FLASHBACK
The flashback ended.
"Dammit!" The voice of Paul cursed, slamming his right fist into the wall. He weakly slumped over, "I…"
And he stood very still in his spot for only a few seconds when…
"Well now, Officer Truman… I can already tell your meeting with Chief Waltfeld didn't go so smoothly, huh?" The voice of Maria echoed, just before she walked into frame with her superior making no effort to turn and look at her, "I'm right, aren't I?"
"Grr… It's true," admitted Paul scornfully, "I screwed up royally today."
"Yeah, I kinda sensed that about you," said Maria duly.
Merely sighing in depression, Paul finally straightened up and turned to face his fellow police officer, who became rather surprised since this was the first time she saw him looking so discouraged with himself—except for the time she chewed him out for his attitude before their drive to Hartford to assist in the capture of Sergey, which finally got him to see the light.
"According to Chief Waltfeld's own words, if I don't shape up soon, I'm gone from the force," revealed Paul glumly, "Either for a whole year, or simply forever."
Although she was also disappointed in Paul for his latest screw up, even Maria couldn't help but feel sorry for him. Just then, the nearby elevator doors opened as General Damas and Jak both emerged, catching the two police officers to react in surprise to their arrival.
"G-General Damas!" stammered Maria, saluting politely.
"As you were," nodded General Damas, before noticing Paul looking very down, "Hey now, what's the matter with you, sport? Not happy to see us, is that it?"
"Oh… not at all," groaned Paul, looking up at the leader of 'The All-Star Squad' in the eye, "I actually first wish to apologize for my earlier misconduct. If I had known beforehand you were after some purse snatchers, I wouldn't have recklessly ordered you and your second-in-command to pull over."
"Eh, forget about it," dismissed Jak, waving his right hand, "As big of an idiot you were, it was still an honest mistake."
"You were just doing your job," proclaimed General Damas, "Wrong place and wrong time, yes. But I respect a man who upholds his duty," He held his right hand out, "There are no hard feelings between us."
Paul briefly looked down at General Damas's right hand and then into his (General Damas) eyes, where he (Paul) found no traces of hostility in them. This meant there really were no hard feelings for the error of judgment on the part of Paul, which caused him to feel a little better as the two men shook hands as a sign of respect for one another. But Paul went back to sulking since the meeting with Sam was still fresh in his mind. It was something that Jak caught onto almost immediately afterward.
"Hey, don't be so hard on yourself," Jak insisted, approaching and wrapping his (Jak) right arm around Paul's shoulder, "We all screw up every now and then. But if you learn from them and keep improving yourself, you'll be seen as someone others can one day aspire to be."
"You… Do you really mean that?" asked Paul hopefully.
"You're damn right, I mean that," grinned Jak, "There will come a time where you'll become an outright hero and fully redeem yourself in the eyes of both the people and Chief Waltfeld. You'll see!"
From there, the two members of 'The All-Star Squad' walked past Paul and Maria further down the hall towards Sam's office for their little meeting. Paul watched the both of them until they turned a corner and were out of sight, at which Maria started talking to him.
"You know, Officer Truman, I think you could use a home cooked meal," she offered, "Why don't you join me and my family for dinner tonight? What do you say?"
"You want me over at your family's house?" pondered Paul, surprised yet touched, "Are you sure that's alright?"
"Sure, I'm sure," smiled Maria, "You'll like my parents and my kid siblings."
Paul immediately smiled back and accepted the invitation to visit the Strienhart household.
(elsewhere…)
Later that evening after their they finished their duties, Paul and Maria drove to the Bronx—which was where the latter's family currently lived. Luckily for them, traffic wasn't too bad this time around, so the drive wasn't very long. After pulling into the driveway and getting out of the police car, Paul took a look at the house and couldn't help but admire how nice it looked.
"Oh man… This is really nice…" he murmured, staring long and hard at the house, "This is a nice house your family has."
"Right this way, sir," requested Maria, walking to the front door.
Paul followed his fellow police officer. He was about to ring the bell when he suddenly stopped his shaking hand and retracted it.
"What are you waiting for? Go ahead and ring the doorbell," offered Maria.
"I-I… I'm sorry, I just feel nervous," admitted Paul, trying to straighten his jacket, "Do you think your parents and their kids will like me?"
"Of course, they will. I told you that back at headquarters," Maria reassured, trying to get her superior to relax, "Just ring the doorbell."
Gulping fearfully, Paul complied. A few seconds later, the front door was opened, revealing two middle-aged folks. The man was 58-years old and had some gray in his hair, while the woman was 53-years old, had long dark brown/black hair, and was of Hispanic heritage. The couple seemed to look happy to see their daughter.
"Mom! Dad!" greeted Maria, hugging her parents.
"Welcome home, Maria!" The man greeted back, "How was work today?"
Maria chuckled, "Oh, it was as busy as ever. We have to work hard in order to keep the law upheld, you know."
"Well, child, you should start giving us a call whenever you can," The woman scolded in response, grabbing Maria by the ear and tugging at it while the man just closed his eyes and smiled sheepishly, "We worry about you constantly since you're on the force, you know."
Maria cringed comically from the ear pull by her Mother, but then she and both of her parents heard Paul clearing his throat as though he was trying to get their attention so he could speak up—which he had done successfully, and it caused him to freeze up nervously.
"Who's he?" The woman quizzed, letting go of Maria's right ear.
"I hope you both don't mind, but I invited my superior over for dinner," remarked Maria, trying to nurse her sore ear for a moment before introducing Paul to her parents, "This is Paul Truman," She then gestured to her Father and Mother, respectively, "Sir, this is Joseph, my Father, and Martha, my Mother."
"S-Sir! Ma'am!" saluted Paul.
Joseph (as he was named) and Martha (as she was named) both stared blankly at the gruff police officer, which caused Paul to become even more nervous when he started to believe he was not going to be liked. Fortunately, those fears became moot when the two middle-aged citizens instead smiled and became warm and welcoming towards him.
"Well, come on now, come on! Don't stand out there in the cold!" said Joseph, as he (Joseph) and his wife took hold of Paul's arms, "Come inside!"
"H-Hey! Whoa!" cried Paul, being pulled into the house.
Maria could only grin uneasily as she also went inside and closed the door behind her.
(inside…)
Inside the living room, Joseph and Martha were leading Paul and Maria to the living room, where a young boy and two young girls were shown waiting.
"Maria!" The two young girls greeted, happily running over to hug their older sister, "We're so happy to see you!"
"What, you both missed me that much?" joked Maria, kneeling down to embrace the two young girls, "I was only working my job as a police officer," She then stood up and faced Paul, "Sir, these two are my younger sisters, Luna and Susan."
"And over there is our oldest son and Maria's younger brother, Taka," added Joseph.
The young boy, named Taka, waved for a few seconds before looking up at Paul in admirement. Paul wasn't too sure what to make of the staring, but it was making him a little uncomfortable. Eventually, Martha clapped her hands and got everyone's attention.
"I suppose that's enough of the introductions," she announced, "It's time to prepare dinner."
"That sounds good, I'm starving," smirked Paul, liking the sound of dinner. It was then his turn to be grabbed by the ear by Martha, "GAH!"
"Oh, but you're gonna roll up your sleeves and help out," stated Martha playfully.
"Hey, hold on!" protested Paul, still being tugged by the left ear, "I'm a guest!"
"Who cares? Now, get to work, get to work!"
"I think it might be best for you to do as she says, sir," advised Maria, cautiously, while appearing to sweatdrop, "My Mother can be 'very' persuasive."
Even as his ear was being pulled on, Paul gulped, not wanting to know what that even meant.
(elsewhere…)
In the kitchen, Paul, now wearing an apron, was busy helping Martha with preparing the meal. He was trying to chop up some peeled potatoes and accidentally slammed the knife down too hard on the chopping board. This earned him a hard whack upside the head by a metal spoon Martha had in her hand.
"Ouch, dammit!" complained Paul.
Later, he was cooking the stew when he decided to take a quick taste. When the gruff police officer lifted the pot lid, it earned him another whack on the back of the head by Martha and her metal spoon.
"No tasting!" The voice of Martha scolded.
(elsewhere…)
Once the meal was cooking, Paul found himself inside the upstairs bathroom with Joseph by his (Paul) side. Apparently, Martha requested that Paul help her husband with cleaning one of the bathrooms.
"Urrrgh! Why do I have to help clean a bathroom?!" grumbled Paul in annoyance.
"Oh, take it easy," suggested Joseph, "Even though you're a guest in our house, you should still make yourself useful."
"But that's not fair!" complained Paul.
"Don't worry, I'll help out," The voice of Taka offered.
Both Paul and Joseph looked at the doorway, finding Taka standing there with a mop and bucket.
"Hey, thanks," Paul praised, feeling relieved, "You're a lifesaver!"
As the three males worked to clean up the upstairs bathroom, Paul and Joseph both started to have a discussion of sorts.
"I have to say, your son sure is helpful," whispered Paul.
"Taka's… Truthfully, he's not our real son," admitted Joseph, which surprised Paul greatly, "You see, Martha and I actually adopted him two years ago," He looked up at the ceiling in sadness, "It was after his real parents were killed in a shooting near a Brooklyn bank."
"Killed?!" gasped Paul, "I'm sorry… It sickens me that people are so obsessed with money that they would take a fellow life just to get it."
"Yes," confirmed Joseph, who nodded grimly, "However…" He looked towards Taka who was busy scrubbing the floor using the mop, "Ever since then, Taka has been trying his hardest to maintain a positive, upbeat attitude in front of others without submitting to despair."
Smiling without a care in the world, Taka continued to scrub the floor and make sure it was very clean. Joseph, meanwhile, smiled once more as he (Joseph) looked back at Paul.
"In fact, he even wants to join the NYPD when he grows up," explained Joseph, before focus shifted right back to Taka, "I think that's why Taka was looking at you in the living room, because he admires you so much."
Paul listened on, feeling a sense of a sense of pride and accomplishment for a young boy who's been keeping himself strong since losing his parents to a shooting incident and also wanting to join the police force when he grew up. However, Paul then immediately recalled how difficult it was to join any police force, especially one as large as the NYPD.
"But, hey, it isn't easy for someone, male or female, to join the police force," reminded Paul, "It takes a lot of training and hard work."
"Nothing's absolutely impossible in this world," replied Joseph positively, "By replacing his grief with gratitude and hope, Taka keeps living the best he can."
Taka continued to clean the floor, but briefly stopped to look at both Paul and his (Taka) Father before giving them a happy smile.
(elsewhere…)
Before long, dinner was finally ready. Everyone had gathered at the table for bowls of beef and potato stew, buns, and glasses of water.
"Time to eat!" The three young children all announced.
Soon, everyone was eating the stew, which they all found to be very delicious.
"This stew is yummy!" commented Maria cheerfully.
"Mm-hmm! It's great!" agreed Joseph.
"After all, the nice police officer made it!" exclaimed Taka, happily looking towards Paul.
Seated at the head of the table, Paul could see everyone (even Maria) was staring at him with big smiles on their faces, while he himself felt a tiny bit flustered over the kindness and gratitude he was being given.
"Thanks for the yummy stew!" said Luna.
"Thank you!" added Susan.
Paul managed a smile of his own before taking a spoonful of the hot stew and put it into his mouth. Seconds later, his eyes widened and he felt a burning sensation on his tongue. Swallowing his food, he quickly grabbed his glass and drank down the water, letting out a contented sigh when the heat inside his mouth died down.
"Hot…" groaned Paul.
This was met with merry laughter from the Strienhart family. As the laughter quieted down, they could all hear a loud crash coming downstairs in the basement, which turned the moment of joy at the dinner table into a state of terror.
"What was that?!" cried Joseph.
"It sounds like it came from the basement," uttered Maria.
"Oh no! A burglar must have broken into the house!" worried Martha.
Scared, Luna and Susan hugged each other out of fear, while Taka was conflicted on what he should do. On the other hand, Paul was quick to take charge of the situation.
"Now, everyone stay calm," he requested, drawing his gun, "Officer Strienhart and I will handle this."
Maria nodded in agreement, standing up and pulling out her own gun and prepared to leave the dining room for the basement.
"All of you stay here," advised Maria, "Officer Truman and I are going to check things out downstairs."
"O-Okay," obeyed Martha fearfully.
(elsewhere…)
Inside the darkened basement, the door was kicked open by Paul, as he and Maria carefully walked down the stairs into the main area with their respective guns when they saw a stack of books laying on the ground nearby.
"Alright! Whoever's down here, show yourself!" shouted Paul, studying his surroundings carefully, "We know you're trying to rob this house! You might as well come out with your hands where we can see them!"
Those words were met with silence.
"This is your last warning!" warned Maria, "We're gonna give you to the count of five to come out! One, two, three, four, five!"
Again, there was silence in the area. Both police officers lowered their guns and began wondering if there really was a burglar downstairs.
"Could anybody be down here?" pondered Paul thoughtfully.
"It might have been a mouse who knocked those books off the table," suggested Maria, before looking at her gun, "I'm starting to think there's no burglar here, and that it was all a false alarm."
From there, she and her superior walked back upstairs to let everyone know that everything was perfectly fine. What they didn't know was that there really 'was' someone hiding out in the basement—under the stairs and out of sight, deciding to wait a little bit longer before beginning his pillaging.
(elsewhere…)
Back in the dining room, Joseph, Martha, and the kids all waited when they saw Paul and Maria return from checking out the basement.
"Well?" pressed Taka urgently.
"There appears to be no burglar," reassured Maria, "It would seem that a mouse accidentally knocked a stack of books off the table down there."
"A mouse?" gawked Joseph, before smacking his forehead with his right hand. He then made a decision on what to do, "Another one?! That does it! First thing tomorrow morning, I'm placing a few mouse traps downstairs to help get those rodents."
"Speaking of tomorrow morning," cut in Martha, looking towards Paul with a question to ask him, "Officer Truman, would you care to spend the night here with us?"
"Our home is your home," added Joseph kindly.
"M-Me?" stammered Paul, again feeling touched, "Are you sure?"
"Do you want me to give you a persuasion?" joked Martha.
"Oh, n-no need," Paul declined, humorously clutching one of his ears rather protectively before managing to smile, "Anyway, I'll be happy to stay here for the night. In fact, living alone in an apartment can be tough at times without anyone to talk to."
Both Joseph and Martha nodded understandingly.
(outside…)
Before long, the sun had gone down and caused the sky to become dark, with several lights in the houses being turned out and everyone having gone to bed for the night.
(inside…)
Inside the Strienhart household, Maria was shown in bed asleep in her bed in her room.
(elsewhere…)
In Luna and Susan's room, both young girls were sleeping in separate beds peacefully.
(elsewhere…)
In Martha and Joseph's room, the two parents of Maria were asleep in a big bed.
(elsewhere…)
In the living room, Paul was asleep on the couch, with a warm, comfy blanket provided by Luna covering him and he was even snuggling with a teddy bear provided by Susan. He wasn't even alone in the living room; the family cat had taken a liking to Paul and could be seen sleeping in his bed on the nearby table.
(elsewhere…)
Inside Taka's room, the young boy was asleep in bed, when he suddenly opened his eyes and sat up.
"What's wrong with me?" thought Taka, "I trust Big Sister Maria and the nice police officer on their word about there being no burglar, but…" He looked at his bedroom door, "Maybe, just maybe…it wouldn't hurt to go and check the basement one more time."
(outside…)
In the hallway, the door to Taka's room opened, and he quietly looked around for anybody who might be in the hallway before emerging and very carefully closing the door. With a look of hope and determination on his face, Taka started making his way downstairs.
(elsewhere…)
Back in the basement, a hulking figure behind the stairs was still snoozing slightly when he started to suddenly move. It would seem it was now time for the prowl.
"It's about time…" The man growled, stretching to get his back straightened out, "I didn't think night would ever come," He then grinned with anticipation, "Whatever. I can finally do what I came here for," Just there, the sound of a door opening could be heard, frustrating him, "Dammit… Now what?"
The shadowed figure watched under the stairs as a young boy walked down into the area. Taka looked around, finding it to be so dark that he couldn't see anything. What he didn't know was that he was being carefully watched.
"It's so dark down here…" grimaced Taka, "I should find and turn on the lights."
"There's no need for you to do that," A deep, menacing voice (male) responded, "Allow me."
Gasping, Taka looked around for the source of the voice when a set of fingers reached over to the nearby light switch and flipped them on, brightening up the otherwise dark basement. Taka briefly shielded his eyes from the sudden glare of the lights. When he recovered, he looked and saw someone standing by the light switches was a large, muscular, burly man.
"Trick or treat," The large man uttered dangerously.
(elsewhere…)
Upstairs in the living room, a loud scream echoed throughout the house, and Paul was the first one to wake up from it.
"What the-?!" cried Paul.
(elsewhere…)
Upstairs, the doors to the Strienhart family's respective bedrooms opened as Joseph, Martha, Maria, Luna, and Susan all emerged, having heard the terrified scream all the way from the basement.
"What was that?" began Susan.
"The scream belonged to Taka!" realized Maria.
"TAKA!" Joseph and Martha both exclaimed in horror.
(elsewhere…)
Inside the basement, Paul ran down the steps into the brightened area, where he found someone down there…with poor Taka in his grasp.
"Keep quiet, brat!" The man growled at the child, before addressing Paul, "Not another step! Unless you want anything bad to happen to him."
"Damn you! Who the hell are you?!" demanded Paul in anger.
"H-Help me! I can't breathe," struggled Taka, caught in the intruder's arms.
The large man silently sneered at Paul. Before long, Maria and the rest of her family came running down the stairs into the basement and stopped behind Paul, noticing the burglar and, more importantly, Taka being held captive.
"Who are you?!" demanded Maria, "And what are you doing with Taka?!"
"I am Strong Ishijima," The large man explained, introducing himself, "Once one of the greatest wrestlers in the country before being defeated in the most humiliating of ways," He bitterly and mentally remembered that fateful day when he ended up losing a big match after tripping over his shoelaces and blacking out as he hit his head on the mat, "Regardless, I have now taken up burglary to build my own fortune. If anyone tries to stop me, I promise to crush this boy like an empty can."
"What do you want?" questioned Joseph, trying his hardest to mask his fear, "You'd better not hurt our boy."
"I'll let him go," said Strong, "However…" He pointed at the Strienhart family, "…to do that, you will pay me exactly $100000 in cash!"
"$100000?!" objected Martha.
"That's too much money though!" added Joseph.
"Don't argue with me!" snarled Strong, "I'll say this again; pay me $100000, and I'll let the kid go back to you. If I don't get my money," He (Strong) didn't let up, even as Taka struggled in such a strong grip, "you'll never see him again!"
Maria growled, while her younger sisters and parents all looked unsure and helpless to do anything to get Taka back without paying a cent or risk getting him hurt. However, there was still one person who could step in, and that was Paul Truman himself. He (Paul) was not going to stand by and let Taka be taken away or held for ransom—not if he had anything to say about it.
"Hold it right there," requested Paul, making Strong irritated again, "Let's settle this with a duel. You know all about Duel Monsters, right?"
"Duel Monsters? Psshaw! Of course, I do!" hissed Strong, "If you're looking for a bruisin' from my cards, you're asking the right person."
"Then it's agreed… We'll duel," continued Paul, "If I'm the winner of the match, then you will release Taka and surrender yourself to the police—being Officer Strienhart and myself."
"Sure, whatever," Strong scoffed, before making an offer of his own, "But if I end up winning, then the family will have to pay me '$250000' for the boy to be returned to them."
"$250000…" thought Maria, looking at her superior uneasily, "Sir, I hope you know what you're saying and doing."
"It's a deal," accepted Paul coldly, before looking over his shoulder at Maria and the rest of her family, "I've messed up too many times in the past, and now's my time to make things right!" He (Paul) then looked at Taka, who was still struggling in Strong's muscular arms, "Don't worry, Taka, I swear I'm going to save you."
(outside…)
Outside in the backyard, Strong, with Taka being forced to stand by his side, had an activated Duel Disk equipped onto his left arm and holding a shuffled Deck up in his right hand with a highly smug smile on his face.
"Let's begin!" boomed Strong, inserting his Deck into the Deck holder on his Duel Disk. Then, after drawing five cards, his LP gauge lit and set itself up (LP: 0 → 4000), "Draw your cards!"
Paul activated his Duel Disk and drew five cards, causing his own LP gauge to light up and set up the score (LP: 0 → 4000).
"Duel!" Paul and Strong both declared at the same time.
"I hope you win this duel, sir, for the sake of Taka," Maria thought to herself, looking hopeful.
"Taka…" whispered Susan.
Back on the field…
"I'll begin the duel!" proclaimed Paul, drawing a card, "Draw!"
Turn One: Paul Truman (LP: 4000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Samurai Sword Baron", "Destiny Break", "Jutte Fighter", "Power Bind", "Stygian Street Patrol", and "Jutte Lord"
He saw he had drawn the 'Jutte Lord' Effect Monster Card, which was a good start.
"I Summon 'Jutte Lord'!" began Paul, placing his drawn card onto his Duel Disk.
Appearing onto the field was a swordsman wearing a blue robe, and the white and red face paint worn by the 'Goyo' warriors (Level: 4/ATK: 1600/DEF: 1200).
"I activate 'Jutte Lord's' effect!" Paul, taking a card from his hand, went on, "If this card is Normal or Special Summoned: I can Special Summon 1 'Jutte' monster from my hand," With that said, he placed the other card ('Jutte Fighter') onto another Monster Zone, "Come forth, 'Jutte Fighter'!"
Appearing onto the field was the small Asian man, armed with a lariat and dressed like a kung fu master (Level: 2/ATK: 700/DEF: 900).
"A Tuner monster…" whispered Maria.
That was a good thing, since it meant Paul could now bring something stronger out of his Extra Deck. Indeed, as 'Jutte Fighter' did a couple of fighting moves with his weapon before turning into two Synchro Rings.
"My Level 2 'Jutte Fighter' tunes Level 4 'Jutte Lord'!" The voice of Paul declared, as the above scenario played out.
The Synchro Rings hovered over, lowered themselves, and surrounded 'Jutte Lord' as he turned into four orbs of light after a few seconds. While that was going on, a Summon Chant by Paul echoed.
"Shoot down evildoers with your crushing cannon!" chanted Paul, as the symbols 4 + 2 = 6 were shown briefly just before the four orbs of light within the two Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Behold! This is the power of the law! Appear! Level 6! 'Goyo Catapult'!"
Appearing out of the beam of light and onto the field, was an armored samurai with a giant cannon on his back (Level: 6/ATK: 800/DEF: 2800). Strong looked bored at seeing this monster.
"I activate 'Goyo Catapult's' monster effect!" declared Paul, taking a card ('Stygian Street Patrol') from his hand, held it out for a few seconds, then discarded it, "Once per turn: I can send 1 monster from my hand to the GY; I must inflict 600 damage to my opponent!"
The spirit of 'Samurai Sword Baron' briefly appeared on the field before being loaded into the cannon belonging to 'Goyo Catapult'.
"Open fire!" commanded Paul.
With the command given, 'Goyo Catapult' fired the cannon towards Strong, hitting him with full force and knocking him back a little bit (LP: 4000 → 3400). This caused both Luna and Susan to cheer over Paul's successful first strike.
"From my hand, I'll Set two cards," continued Paul, making two face-down cards appear on the field in-front of him, "And with that, my turn will end here."
"Hmph! 600 damage is not a whole lot," scoffed Strong, "Allow me to show you how a 'real' duelist fights!" He drew a card, "It's my turn! Draw!"
Turn Two: Strong Ishijima (LP: 3400)
Deck: 39
Current Hand (6): "Lava Battleguard", "Feast of the Wild LV5", "Battleguard Rage", "Swamp Battleguard", "Battleguard Sorcery", and "Battleguard King"
The drawn card was the 'Battleguard King' Effect Monster Card, which Strong was excited to see. However, he first needed the necessary number of Tributes to bring it out. Fortunately, there was an easy way to do that…
"Spell Card, 'Feast of the Wild LV5', activate!" began Strong, as the mentioned Spell Card flipped face-up and revealed itself, "I must Special Summon up to 2 Level 5 Warrior monsters from my hand and/or GY, but their effects are negated, also, for the rest of this turn, they cannot attack."
"Special Summon two Level 5 Warrior monsters?" frowned Paul.
"Exactly," smirked Strong, before taking two cards ('Swamp Battleguard' and 'Lava Battleguard') from his hand and placing them onto his Duel Disk separately, "Appear now, 'Swamp Battleguard' and 'Lava Battleguard'!"
Appearing onto the field were two Beast-like monsters wielding clubs; one was colored a kind of brown (Level: 5/ATK: 1800/DEF: 1500), and the other was colored crimson red (Level: 5/ATK: 1550/DEF: 1800). The audience was concerned about two monsters appearing onto Strong's field, but Joseph quickly became optimistic.
"It's okay," he reassured, "'Goyo Catapult' has a DEF of 2800, meaning those two 'Battleguards' are not able to punch through with their respective ATK of 1800 and 1550. Plus, their effects are negated, and they can't attack this turn."
"That's a good thing for Officer Truman," acknowledged Martha, somewhat relieved.
Back on the field, Paul was singing a far different tune about 'Swamp Battleguard' and 'Lava Battleguard' both being on the field. He knew that there was more to this play than meets the eye.
"Considering he brought out two monsters in a single turn, Strong must have a better use for them," thought Paul, "I think I know what he'll do next."
"Next, I'll offer my two monsters as a Tribute!" cut in Strong.
Both 'Swamp Battleguard' and 'Lava Battleguard' faded away in streaks of blue. Seconds later, there was a loud rumbling sound.
"What's that sound?" worried Joseph.
"Shh… It's getting louder," added Martha.
Back on the field, more rumblings could be heard…
"Come forth from the depths of the hidden wood, crushing the giant trees in your way…" chanted Strong, as the rumbling got louder. Soon, a large shadow started pushing through the trees, "King of savages, ruler of the wild! 'Battleguard King'!"
Suddenly, the trees caved to the side as a huge, red 'Battleguard' monster appeared, dressed in armor, and wielding a huge wooden club (Level: 8/ATK: 3000/DEF: 1100).
"It has an ATK of 3000!" wailed Luna, "The nice police officer's 'Goyo Catapult' can't stand up to that!"
"This is not good," mumbled Joseph, "Will Officer Truman lose his monster this soon?"
Back on the field, Paul had his head bowed slightly to cause a shadow to cover his eyes. His mouth then formed a small smile, which Strong took notice of.
"I'm going to destroy your monster, and you look happy about it," commented Strong suspiciously, "Why?" He then remembered something, "Hold on, your Set cards…"
"How right you are," chuckled Paul, now looking up at his opponent with the smile still on his face. To show what he was aiming to do, one of his Set cards flipped face-up and revealed itself, "I activate a Trap, 'Power Bind'!"
Suddenly, a large energy ring bound itself around 'Battleguard King', causing him to howl in pain as it became weaker (ATK: 3000 → 0).
"W-What the-?!" panicked Strong.
"Heh! My Trap Card, 'Power Bind'," explained Paul, "When my opponent Normal Summons a monster: I must target 1 face-up monster my opponent controls; it cannot attack this turn, and its ATK becomes 0 until my opponent's next Standby Phase," Focus briefly went to the weakened 'Battleguard King', "By Summoning 'Battleguard King', you've basically crippled it for a short period of time."
Strong gritted his teeth over falling into such an obvious trap, while the audience watching was overjoyed that Paul had prevented a very nasty attack.
"Well done, Officer Truman!" encouraged Joseph.
"Keep it up! Please save our son!" pleaded Martha.
Back on the field, Strong kept his annoyed look while taking two cards from his hand.
"Don't think it ends here," warned Strong, before slotting his cards into separate Spell & Trap Zones on his Duel Disk. This caused two face-down cards to materialize on the field in-front of him, "I Set two cards and end my turn!"
"It's my turn!" declared Paul, drawing a card, "Draw!"
Turn Three: Paul Truman (LP: 4000)
Deck: 53
Current Hand (2): "Samurai Sword Baron" and "Stygian Security"
Adding the drawn card into his hand, he held his right hand out.
"I activate the second effect of 'Stygian Street Patrol'!" Paul went on, as the spirit of a monster ('Stygian Street Patrol') briefly appeared on the field, "I can banish this card from my GY; I must Special Summon 1 Fiend monster with 2000 or less ATK from my hand."
The spirit of 'Stygian Street Patrol' shattered into shards of glass, while a new card ('Stygian Security') materialized face-up onto the field in its place.
"Come forth, 'Stygian Security'!" The voice of Paul commanded.
Appearing from the face-up Monster Card and onto the field, was a blue, winged creature with a megaphone in one hand, a police truncheon in the other, and a siren on its head (Level: 1/ATK: 100/DEF: 600).
"Not only that…" While speaking, Paul placed his last card onto his Duel Disk, "I'll also Normal Summon 'Samurai Sword Baron'!"
Appearing onto the field was a samurai warrior in a green robe (Level: 4/ATK: 1600/DEF: 1200). From there, 'Stygian Security' turned itself into a single Synchro Ring.
"My Level 1 'Stygian Security' tunes Level 4 'Samurai Sword Baron'!" The voice of Paul declared, as the above scenario played out.
'Samurai Sword Baron' dove into the Synchro Ring, becoming four orbs of light. The symbols 4 + 1 = 5 were shown for a very short amount of time before the orbs of light turned into a massive beam of light.
"Synchro Summon!" declared Paul, "Come, 'Stygian Sergeants'!"
Appearing out of the beam of light and onto the field, was a two-headed, fiendish police officer riding an equally fiendish motorcycle (Level: 5/ATK: 2200/DEF: 1800)
"Another powerful monster!" cheered Susan.
"The nice police officer has the advantage!" came from Luna.
Back on the field, Paul was in the process of thinking how his strategy would win him the duel.
"By attacking and destroying 'Battleguard King' with 'Stygian Sergeants', it will gain 800 ATK and be able to attack directly," thought Paul, "This will reduce Strong's LP to 0, therefore making me the winner."
Over on the other end of the field, Taka was growing increasingly sure that Paul was going to win the duel. On the other hand, Strong was not very convinced.
"Don't get your hopes up, kid," he told his prisoner, "That stupid police officer still has ways to go before he can win this duel."
"Oh yeah, says who?" snapped Taka.
"So says my Trap Card!" As he yelled that out, Strong's first face-down card flipped face-up and revealed itself before glowing after four seconds, "'Battleguard Sorcery'! If I control a 'Battleguard' monster and my opponent controls 2 or more monsters: I must target 1 of those monsters; I must take control of that target!"
Paul was not thrilled to hear that, considering he controlled two monsters.
"I think I'll take control of your newly Summoned 'Stygian Sergeants'," joked Strong smugly, "I might have a use for it."
From there, 'Stygian Sergeants' went over to Strong's field.
"Damn! I can't get the victory I desire," thought Paul, before looking at 'Goyo Catapult' and then his hand, "And without any more cards, namely monsters, in my hand, I can't even use my 'Goyo Catapult's' effect either… Ngh! I can't do anything else this turn!" He spoke aloud, "I end my turn!"
"I thought as much," grinned Strong, drawing a card, "Draw!"
Turn Four: Strong Ishijima (LP: 3400)
Deck: 38
Current Hand (1): "Card of Demise"
All of a sudden, Paul's face-up 'Power Bind' Trap Card shattered into shards of glass.
"Oh no!" cried Paul, "Now that it's your turn, 'Power Bind's' effect wears off!"
"Which means 'Battleguard King's' massive power returns to normal!" declared Strong.
True to his word, 'Battleguard King' grew stronger and broke free from its binds (ATK: 0 → 3000). Paul grimaced, but remained confident he could get through the turn undamaged. However, Strong's turn was just beginning.
"Spell Card, 'Card of Demise', activate!" continued Strong, holding his drawn card out before beginning to draw five new cards, "I must draw until I have 5 cards in my hand," He then looked at his hand, "but send all cards in my hand to the GY during my 5th Standby Phase after activation."
His new hand currently contained 'Granite Battleguard', 'Battleguard Howling', 'Boulder Battleguard', 'Battleguard Magic', and 'Shaman Battleguard'; all cards he had been hoping to pick up at some point.
"My, my, what do we have here?" laughed Strong, staring at his hand before looking up at his opponent, "I think I'll take my new card out for a spin."
"New card?" repeated Paul.
"Yes," confirmed Strong, before taking and holding a card ('Granite Battleguard') out, "Appear now, 'Granite Battleguard'!"
Appearing onto the field was a blue-colored 'Battleguard' monster with a large club (Level: 3/ATK: 1000/DEF: 1200).
"But this isn't even all I'll Summon!" bragged Strong, taking another card ('Boulder Battleguard') from his hand and holding it out while explaining his Summoned monster's sole effect, "When 'Granite Battleguard' is Normal Summoned: I can Special Summon 1 'Boulder Battleguard' from my hand."
Appearing onto the field was a brown-colored 'Battleguard' monster in a purple robe with a large club (Level: 4/ATK: 1200/DEF: 1000).
"This is the moment I've been waiting for!" thundered Strong, "I offer 'Granite Battleguard', 'Boulder Battleguard', and your 'Stygian Sergeants' each as a Tribute!"
The three monsters vanished in blue streaks. Suddenly, just like with 'Battleguard King', another rumbling sound was heard in the distance.
"Arising from the shadows of the forest, emerge as the enchanted protector of the mightiest of hunters!" chanted Strong, as the nearby trees were knocked down, "'Shaman Battleguard'!"
Shown from the nearby battered trees was a 'Battleguard' monster dressed as a shaman with a set of skulls as gloves (Level: 10/ATK: 2000/DEF: 3000).
"No way…" whimpered Luna fearfully, "That big bully has two powerful monsters, now."
"Will the nice police officer be defeated?" added Susan.
Back on the field, Strong was snickering at how he built his field for his impending victory.
"I can Special Summon 'Shaman Battleguard' (from my hand) by Tributing 3 monsters, including at least 1 'Battleguard, monster," said Strong, explaining his monster's first effect. He then motioned his left arm (with the Duel Disk) about before pointing at his opponent, "However, things are not about to get any better for you!"
"I didn't think they would," retorted Paul dryly.
"'Shaman Battleguard's' second effect!" continued Strong, as focus went towards 'Shaman Battleguard' and then Paul's whole field, "Once per turn: I can target 1 monster my opponent controls; I must take control of it. (I can only control 1 monster at a time with this effect.)"
"That will leave Officer Truman's field wide open!" realized Maria.
From there, 'Shaman Battleguard' waved its skull hands, and binded 'Goyo Catapult' in a magical aura, bringing him over to Strong's field.
"Hehehe… While I control a monster with this card's effects, my opponent cannot target this card for an attack," remarked Strong, going over his 'Shaman Battleguard's' fourth effect with a devious laugh, "And if you try anything like getting a monster with a higher ATK out, you're out of luck!" He then revealed 'Shaman Battleguard's' third effect as focus went towards the 'Shaman Battleguard' Effect Monster Card, "When my opponent Summons a monster(s) with a higher ATK than the monster I am controlling with this effect: I can target 1…" The disgraced wrestler-turned-burglar kept on smiling evilly, "…of those monsters and the monster I am controlling with this effect; I must switch control of both monsters."
"This is not a good position to be in," thought Paul, "He's gonna attack me, guaranteed."
But it was not meant to come (yet)…
"You know what, I think I have a better idea," remarked Strong, raising his right hand slightly and snapping the fingers, "I think I'll increase my ability to attack you," While speaking, the stolen 'Goyo Catapult' faded away in a blue streak, while 'Battleguard King' raised his arms up and bellowed loudly as his first effect was activated, "Once per turn: I can Tribute any number of Warrior monsters, except 'Battleguard King'; for each Tributed monster, this card gains 1 additional attack during each Battle Phase this turn."
Maria and her family recoiled in horror, since two attacks was all it took to defeat Paul, thus preventing Taka's safe release and forcing a huge ransom payment for his return. By allowing 'Battleguard King' to attack twice first, it would guarantee that Paul would use up a defensive Trap Card to protect himself.
"Battle!" announced Strong, entering his Battle Phase, "'Battleguard King' attacks you directly!"
'Battleguard King' obeyed, raising his large club with the intention of striking Paul.
"Continuous Trap, 'Destiny Break', activate!" cut in Paul, as his remaining face-down card flipped up and revealed itself, "During my opponent's Battle Phase, when an opponent's monster declares a direct attack: I must draw 1 card and reveal it, then if it was a monster, negate that attack, otherwise send the drawn card to the GY."
"Officer Truman has three attacks to fend off, meaning he can use his Trap Card three times this turn," Maria was saying, "He can only take one of the direct attacks, so he has to draw at least two monsters to survive this turn."
Back on the field, the risky move commenced.
"Here we go!" shouted Paul, taking the first draw, "I draw!"
Turning the drawn card over, he saw his first card was…'Search Striker', a Monster Card. The sight brought a relieved smile to his face.
"Yes! I've drawn a Monster Card, 'Search Striker'!" announced Paul, adding the card into his hand, "Your first attack is negated!"
'Battleguard King' brought its club down, but a barrier formed and protected Paul from the attack, pushing the enemy monster back.
"Grr… 'Battleguard King', attack directly again!" A frustrated Strong bellowed.
Not willing to quit, 'Battleguard King' roared and raised its club for a second go.
"My second draw," remarked Paul, drawing a card, "By drawing another monster, I'll be able to negate your attack!"
"Not this time," rebutted Strong, grinning big, who could see what the opponent's drawn card was. He then pointed forth slightly, "Why don't you take a look at your card?"
Curious, Paul looked over while turning his card over, gasping when he saw what it was. The card happened to be 'Goyo Arrow', a Spell Card.
"'G-Goyo Arrow'-!" stammered Paul, becoming forced to place his drawn card ('Goyo Arrow') right in his GY, "Since it's not a Monster Card, I-I have to send it to my GY."
"Take this!" boomed Strong, taking full advantage of his opponent's failed attempt to block his second attack, "Strike 'im down, 'Battleguard King'!"
'Battleguard King' obeyed, striking its club down on Paul, shattering the barrier and causing the gruff police officer to go flying as he yelled and took major damage (LP: 4000 → 1000). The audience members recoiled in shock when they saw Paul land on the ground near them.
"Officer Truman!" cried Martha, "Please get up!"
Both Joseph and Maria helped Paul back up, but then they realized that Strong still had one more monster capable of attacking, and that happened to be 'Shaman Battleguard'.
"Two attacks down, only one to go…" sneered Strong, all while 'Shaman Battleguard' readied itself to attack and finish the duel, "My 'Shaman Battleguard' attacks directly!"
'Shaman Battleguard' obeyed, diving into the air, and preparing to strike Paul with one of its skull fists instead of its club. However, Paul managed to sit up and activate the first effect of his 'Destiny Break' Trap Card
"My third draw!" reminded Paul, bracing two fingers on top of his Deck. As he stared at his Deck, his confidence started to fail him, "If I can't draw a monster this time, not only will that thief win, but poor Taka…"
He left that thought hanging in the balance. At the thought of the child being hurt and losing the chance to grow up into a future police officer, Paul clenched his empty fist with determination. He could 'not' allow this burglar to get his way.
"I won't lose!" Paul declared, drawing a third and final card, "This card will be what I need to block 'Shaman Battleguard's' attack!" He then shut his eyes fearfully, "Please let this be a Monster Card… Please, please, please, God almighty, let this be a Monster Card!"
Seconds after turning the card over, Paul slowly and carefully turned his head and opened his eyes. They widened—not with horror, but with relief. The drawn card was 'Torapart', which was a Monster Card. On the other end of the field, Strong also gasped when he saw the card in-question.
"I've drawn 'Torapart'!" announced Paul, holding the card ('Torapart') out, "Since it's a Monster Card, the attack from 'Shaman Battleguard' is negated!"
From there, a second protective barrier formed around Paul, blocking 'Shaman Battleguard's' attack. Strong was less than pleased that his efforts to win against Paul this turn were rendered moot.
"Since your Battle Phase has ended, I'll continue the effect of 'Destiny Break'!" continued Paul, as his face-up 'Destiny Break' Trap Card shattered into shards of glass. He then, while explaining his Trap Card's remaining effect, held his two drawn cards ('Search Striker' and 'Torapart') for a few seconds before placing them onto his Duel Disk (sideways), "At the end of the Battle Phase, I must destroy this card, then Special Summon any monsters drawn by this card's effect from my hand, but negate their effects."
Appearing onto the field, kneeling in defensive positions, were two monsters. The first was a masked warrior wielding two laser-like weapons (Level: 4/ATK: 1600/DEF: 1200). The second was a pair of small clown-like beings connected together with a wooden disk between them (Level: 2/ATK: 600/DEF: 600).
"Pfft! How useless!" dismissed Strong, before pressing a button on his Duel Disk, "Face-down card, open!" He held his right hand out, causing the remaining Set card to flip face-up and reveal itself, "'Battleguard Rage'!"
"What?!" cringed Paul.
"I must activate this card by targeting 1 Warrior monster I control; it gains 1000 ATK. Monsters destroyed by battle with it are returned to the hand instead of going to the GY," explained Strong, first explaining the first as Paul remained stunned in his (Paul) spot, "When that monster leaves the field, I must destroy this card," He then held both hands out, "Now, 'Shaman Battleguard', accept this gift of rage!"
'Shaman Battleguard' glowed in a red aura as it let out a bellow and grew more powerful—about as powerful as 'Battleguard King' (ATK: 2000 → 3000). Both monsters let out bellows as Strong let out a devious chuckle over the overwhelming advantage he had.
"It looks like you'll live to see another turn," he teased, before slotting a card into his Duel Disk, "I Set one card and end my turn."
A face-down card ('Battleguard Howling') materialized on the field. Strong was confident he had the duel won; Paul only controlled two weak monsters, and 'Battleguard King' had the ability to attack more times during the Battle Phase by Tributing any number of Warrior monsters he controlled. If he could draw and Summon such a creature, there would be NO WAY Paul would be able to survive.
"Now, draw a card and take your turn!" requested Strong, before grinning cruelly, "Or you could take the easy way out and surrender? No matter what you do, I've won! The boy's family will have to pay me $250000 for his safe return."
Paul tried his hardest to be brave and maybe fire off a retort, but instead nothing came out of his mouth as he lost all forms of hope and fell to his knees in despair when it became clear there was simply no way for him to get out of this situation.
"All I got on my field are two monsters, but they won't last five seconds against two 'Battleguard' monsters with 3000 ATK…" thought Paul, "It was hopeless, after all… When I lose the duel, Officer Strienhart and her family will have to cough up $250000 for Taka's release," Faded stills of him (Paul) being fired by Sam and then leaving the NYPD behind were shown around him (again Paul), "This final screw up will be enough to get me fired from the force… Was I really way in over my head as an enforcer of the law, and am I even competent enough to serve my country?"
"Officer Truman! No… Paul!" The voice of Maria called out, catching Paul by surprise as he looked nearby. While the black-haired young woman's other family members were worried and discouraged, she herself was glaring at her superior—not out of disapproval, but rather of support, "Don't give up, sir! You still have a chance!"
"Maria?" uttered Paul, referring to his assistant by her actual name.
"I know the odds are not in your favor, but quitting is not an option," Maria went on, as both Joseph and Martha stared at her, "You have to win for Taka's sake! You need to keep fighting for him and what you truly believe in—as an enforcer of the law! Do you understand me?!"
Paul was silent for a second, but eventually nodded in agreement before turning back towards Strong.
"I promise to win this duel," he vowed firmly, "I swear to defeat you, Strong Ishijima! I swear to defeat you and free Taka from your clutches!"
"You're hopeless! Absolutely hopeless!" insulted Strong angrily, "Since you're too stubborn to give up, draw your card and prove you can beat me!"
Paul nodded, drawing a card.
Turn Five: Paul Truman (LP: 1000)
Deck: 52
Current Hand (1): "Pot of Greed"
He saw that his drawn card was the 'Pot of Greed' Spell Card.
"Not my best draw, but this should still come in handy," thought Paul, pleased. He then held his drawn card ('Pot of Greed') out, "Spell Card, 'Pot of Greed', activate! I must draw 2 cards!"
"Better hope your cards are good," warned Strong.
Paul merely reached for his Deck, and, with complete faith in the cards, drew his two cards with, what else, a Destiny Draw. Both cards were 'Sonic Buster' (Spell Card) and 'Monster Reborn' (Spell Card). Paul's eyes widened upon seeing the cards, as they were exactly what he needed to win the duel. Before long, a new, confident grin appeared on his face, catching Strong by surprise since it was pretty clear Paul was going to be overpowered by both 'Battleguard' monsters.
"My first card!" declared Paul, holding his first card ('Monster Reborn') out, "Spell Card, 'Monster Reborn'! I must target 1 monster in either GY; I must Special Summon it."
Reappearing onto the field was 'Goyo Catapult' (Level: 6/ATK: 800/DEF: 2800).
"As you can see, I've revived 'Goyo Catapult'," Paul pointed out. From there, 'Goyo Catapult' jumped into the air while 'Torapart' turned itself into two Synchro Rings, "My Level 2 'Torapart' tunes Level 6 'Goyo Catapult'!"
'Goyo Catapult' soared into the two Synchro Rings, turning itself into six orbs of light as another short Summon Chant from Paul echoed throughout.
"Prostrate before the power of authority!" chanted Paul, as the symbols 6 + 2 = 8 were shown for a few seconds before the six orbs of light within the two Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Appear! Level 8! 'Goyo King'!"
Appearing out of the beam of light and onto the field, was the huge swordsman wearing a purple robe and the 'Goyo' brand face paint, while wielding a naginata for a weapon (Level: 8/ATK: 2800/DEF: 2000). In the audience, Maria breathed a sigh of relief over her superior making a massive comeback.
"Don't relax yet," advised Joseph, "Officer Truman's monster is strong, but only has 2800 ATK, which is lower than the ATK of 3000 both 'Battleguard King' and 'Shaman Battleguard' have."
Martha stared at her son, "Taka…"
"Oh, Taka…" whispered Luna.
Back on the field, Paul was not done with preparing to end the duel in his victory.
"Spell Card, 'Sonic Buster'!" exclaimed Paul, as the mentioned Spell Card materialized face-up on the field, "I must target 1 face-up monster I control; I must inflict damage to my opponent equal to half its ATK. (This effect cannot be activated if my opponent's LP would become 0.)"
"Half of its own ATK?!" growled Strong.
"The monster I'll target will be my 'Goyo King'!" confirmed Paul, before pointing forward, "Due to his ATK of 2800, you'll take 1400 damage!"
From there, 'Goyo King' fired a powerful ball of spiritual energy which hit Strong head on, causing him to grimace as his LP dropped again (LP: 3400 → 2000).
"Worthless!" yelled Strong, "You might control 'Goyo King', but even it pales in comparison to my own monsters!"
"When you put it that way, let's test that theory out?" suggested Paul, before entering the Battle Phase, "Battle! My 'Goyo King' will attack 'Battleguard King'!"
'Goyo King' obeyed, raising his blade, and diving towards the larger monster. Strong grinned, thinking that his opponent was basically self destructing. However, when he saw that Paul was not looking worried at all, he (Strong) started to get cold feet. Strong stared at his face-down card and decided he couldn't leave things to chance.
"I have no choice; if that idiot police officer's monster has some sort of hidden power, I'll have to use my card," thought Strong, before speaking aloud, "Face-down card, open! 'Battleguard Howling'!"
From there, Strong's face-down card started to flip face-up and itself, but then, all of a sudden, it started sparking and glitching out before returning to its face-down position.
"It can't be!" gasped Strong, just before a spirit of Paul's 'Torapart' briefly appeared on the field, "That's 'Torapart'! How did you bring it back?!"
"Correction, 'that' was your own fault," replied Paul, "You should have known that 'Torapart' has an effect designed to prevent the activation of Spells and Traps," When his opponent said nothing back, he went on with speaking, "Allow me to explain… If the Synchro Monster that used this card as Synchro Material attacks, my opponent cannot activate Trap Cards until the end of the Damage Step."
"Damn…" cursed Strong, but still remained confident that he would be able to win, "But don't forget that your attacking 'Goyo King' only has 2800 ATK! By attacking, you'll basically get yourself destroyed!"
"Don't be so sure about that," said Paul, shaking his head, "Let me tell you a small secret about 'Goyo King'; he is not weaker than your 'Battleguard King'. In fact, 'Goyo King' is actually 'stronger'."
"What?!" cried Strong.
"That's because the first effect of my monster is guilty," continued Paul knowingly, "When this card declares an attack on an opponent's monster: This card gains 400 ATK for each EARTH Warrior Synchro Monster I control, until the end of the Damage Step."
From there, 'Goyo King' glowed in an aura as he grew stronger (ATK: 2800 → 3200). Strong's mouth opened as he watched what was going on. 'Goyo King' twirled his naginata, commenced his attack on 'Battleguard King'.
"Take down 'Battleguard King'!" The voice of Paul hollered.
With a mighty yell, 'Goyo King' sliced at 'Battleguard King' with his naginata, causing the giant club to be cut in half as 'Battleguard King' fell onto his back before shattering like glass.
"Yeah! You nailed him!" cheered Taka.
Strong fumed as his LP took another (although smaller) hit (LP: 2000 → 1800).
"But your Battle Phase is up!" reminded Strong hotly, "I still control 'Shaman Battleguard', and it has 3000 ATK. When my next turn comes, you can say goodbye to both 'Goyo King' and the duel!"
"There will be no next turn," retorted Paul.
Strong did not like the sound of those words, while Taka was puzzled that this burglar was not going to see another turn despite still having the upper hand. Since nobody had anything to say, Paul decided to elaborate on why there would be no next turn for Strong.
"'Goyo King's' second effect!" announced Paul, "When this card destroys an opponent's monster by battle and sends it to the GY: I can activate 1 of these effects."
There were the effects written on the Monster Card in-question:
-"I must Special Summon that monster to my field."
-"I must take control of 1 face-up monster my opponent controls."
Strong flinched in fear.
"The nice police officer can take control of a monster that big bully controls," realized Susan.
As predicted, 'Goyo King' unleashed a long rope, which ensnared 'Shaman Battleguard', bringing it over to Paul's field. This gave him another monster to attack with, and his Battle Phase was still on.
"'Shaman Battleguard', attack Strong directly!" ordered Paul, "End this duel!"
'Shaman Battleguard' obeyed, raising its fists, and bringing them down to the ground with a loud crash! The shockwaves hit Strong and caused him to be thrown about as the remainder of his LP gauge diminished (LP: 1800 → 0).
DUEL RESULTS: Paul Truman wins!
The holograms faded away as Paul briefly fell to a knee in exhaustion.
"He did it… Officer Truman won the duel," breathed Maria.
Luna and Susan both cheered and hugged each other, knowing that their brother was saved, all thanks to Paul—or, to them, 'the nice police officer'. Back on the other end of the field, Strong was lying on the lawn, but was able to barely sit back up.
"Dammit… What was that?" he groaned, rubbing the back of his head before realizing that the duel had been lost, "I lost the duel…"
"A deal's a deal," Paul reminded, as Taka now stood by his side, "Taka goes free, you don't get any money, and you're turning yourself in."
A few seconds later, Strong, after staring at his victorious opponent, closed his eyes and silently admitted defeat. All of a sudden, the sounds of army jeeps were heard. The noise got louder and louder before, you guessed it, 'The All-Star Squad' showed up to assist the police in arresting the burglar.
"'The All-Star Squad'?!" gasped Martha, "But how did they-?"
"During Strong's last turn, I secretly made a quick call to General Damas," explained Maria proudly, "They said they'd be here as fast as they could, and so here they are."
Before long, Strong was being led to a military-based truck, where he was loaded inside to be taken away. While that was going on, Paul, the Strienhart family, General Damas, and Jak all watched the scene before the remaining two began addressing the first.
"Well done, Officer Truman!" praised General Damas.
"You didn't forget what I told ya," added Jak, "How do you feel, right now?"
"Rather relieved that Taka's safe," admitted Paul.
"Well, we can say that for tonight, you're Taka's hero," smiled Martha.
Luna, Susan, and Taka each started cheering for Paul, who couldn't help but feel proud of himself for his successful accomplishment. That was as Maria and Jak both laid their respective right hands onto the gruff police officer's shoulders and offered their congratulations.
(elsewhere…)
The next morning, Paul was back at the NYPD headquarters visiting Sam in his office. Unlike the last meeting they had, this one was going very, very smoothly for obvious reasons; Sam obviously heard of Strong's arrest at the hands of Paul, and that pleased him (Sam) very much.
"An excellent job, Officer Truman!" congratulated Sam, "You actually caught a burglar without messing up. I think you're well on your way to regaining the public's trust."
"Sir," Paul saluted in respect, "I promise to continue improving myself."
Before Sam could continue, there was a knock on the door.
"Enter," requested Sam.
The door opened, and General Damas and Jak both entered. Although this was the NYPD's second time getting a visit from the leader and second-in-command of 'The All-Star Squad', Sam was pleased as ever to see them.
"General Damas, what can I do for you?" began Sam.
"We're here to see Officer Truman, that's what! And, what luck on our end, here he is!" smirked Jak, "But before we get to that part, we have something we'd like to tell ya…"
General Damas nodded, "Right," he acknowledged, while Jak walked up, "First, we want to say that New York City is filled with so much excitement even with the threat of Sergey Volkov being gone, and we're glad Governor Godwin called upon us."
"And we're glad to hear you said that," commented Paul, "So, uh… What exactly brings you here to the NYPD headquarters this time around? Why come just to see me?"
"Because we wanna invite you to hang out with us," answered Jak, "We wanna celebrate your success from last night! So, General Damas and I are here to take you out for some drinks. Whaddaya say?"
"Some drinks?" repeated Paul, before grinning with interest, "I'm in," He looked to his boss, "Chief Waltfeld, you wanna come?"
"You know, that does sound like a good idea to me," remarked Sam, but then remembered that he was a bit occupied at the moment, "However, I have to turn down the invitation—too much paperwork to go through, but you guys enjoy yourselves."
Just then, Maria showed up, arriving a little late after helping clean the basement at her family's house before leaving for work.
"General Damas! Jak! Welcome back, you two," greeted Maria.
"Officer Strienhart!" Jak greeted right back, "You're just in time! General Damas and I were just about to take Officer Truman here out for a few drinks to celebrate his successful arrest of Strong Ishijima," He briefly started flirting with the black-haired young woman, "We're wondering if you'd like to join us. Having a lovely woman such as yourself in our company will make the outing even better."
"Eh hehehe… That's…really generous of you to offer, Jak," said Maria sheepishly, "However, I'm afraid I have to decline. I'm late coming into work and I have some catching up to do."
"Suit yourself," shrugged General Damas, "Come along, Officer Truman!"
With that said, Paul got up and was prominently pulled away by the arms. Before heading out the door, Paul looked towards Sam and Maria and gave them both a cheesy smile. When the door shut itself, Sam and Maria looked at each other and smiled with a small sweatdrop forming on the side of their respective foreheads, hoping that while Paul enjoyed his celebration, he continued to work hard as a member of the NYPD.
(The six Signers; Matt Fudo, Michael Atlas, James R. Hogan, Carlie Izayoi, David Xadashi, and Lisa Drake appeared in colored backgrounds before the scenery changed to that of their Duel Runners (Matt: Fudo Go, Michael: Wheel of Fortune, James R.: Blackbird, Carlie: Bloody Kiss, David: The Wild Card, Lisa: Strike Rouge) with silhouettes of the six duelists standing in front of them. We then see side-by-side stills of the Signers with their dragons blending into parts of them—'Stardust Dragon' blended in with Matt's arm as 'Red Dragon Archfiend' blended in with Michael's outfit.)
And if this thing that sits inside won't mend.
Then I know that it's finally the end.
And if our tears get drenched at the same time,
our laughs will echo on like chimes.
('Black-Winged Dragon' blended in with James R. Hogan's leg, while 'Black Rose Dragon' blended in with Carlie's own outfit.)
In this reality that was unleashed,
many phrases that were soon released.
In your heart you'll get what's really true.
('Life Stream Dragon' and 'Ancient Fairy Dragon' both blended in with David and Lisa respectively, as well.)
That thing inside was never true.
A nameless flower within you…
And in your heart it beats and blooms.
Trying to find where we both loomed…
(As Sherry LeBlanc fell down an endless pit, flashes of several characters appeared above her, including Vincent Stevens, Muruta Azrael, Orga Sabnak, Clotho Buer, Shani Andras, Asagi Caldwell, Mayura Labatt, Juri Wu Nien, and Shinji Weber. Carlie was shown at the top trying to reach out and save her former friend-turned-rival.)
Woke up just to seek and map out my dream.
Reaching towards a path laid out in front of me.
Seize it tight, let it fly.
And we'll search to reunite again…
(Within a dark forest, lights above began to flash as the Signers, along with Zack, looked towards the skies. While five of them gazed up in awe, an annoyed Lisa Drake folded her arms and pouted, her mouth full of soap bubbles compliments of Zack—presumably from all her use of vulgar language.)
Pick a color that fills you up with light.
Paint over the blinding darkness that falls in your sight.
With your bonds, with your hopes,
we'll be alright with Future Colors.
(In the skies, the bright piercing light was revealed to be that of the Crimson Dragon.)
We'll keep on painting.
Till we see our own end,
together my friends…
Phew! After about two or so weeks of writing delays, we have the first chapter of the second arc of the spin-off all done. The next chapter hopefully won't take nearly as long, but you never know when writing fanfics with other people. And you know, other than the new segment at the very start which focuses on David and Lisa as they unveil a few cards used in the duel, this might be the only chapter in the whole story to feature absolutely no appearances from any of the members of Team 6D's.