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
Gundam SEED characters, Orb, Blue Cosmos, M1 Astray, Strike Rouge, Murasame, Akatsuki (c) Sunrise
Character of Lisa Drake (c) DaveMan1000
Character of David Xadashi (c) DaveMan1000
Jak and Daxter characters, Spargus, Tough Puppy, Sand Shark, Dune Hopper, Gila Stomper, Slam Dozer, Heat Seeker, Dust Demon, Desert Screamer (c) Naughty Dog
Crash Bandicoot characters, Wumpa (c) Activision
Ratchet & Clank characters, Veldin, Sargasso, Shatterbomb (c) Insomniac
Sly Cooper characters (c) Sucker Punch
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 for only a brief amount of time.
"Welcome back to another exciting segment of 'This week's noteworthy cards', everyone," greeted Lisa.
"What cards do we have in store for all of you today?" added David, before he and Lisa turned to face and aimed their arms at the nearby blackboard with the five cards (still showing their backing) lined up, "Ready? Here they are!"
The five face-down cards on the blackboard all automatically turned over and revealed themselves to be:
-'Black Rose Seed' (Trap Card)
-'Sauge de Fleur' (Effect Monster Card)
-'Garden Rose Flora' (Synchro Monster Card)
-'Centaur Mina' (Fusion Monster Card)
-'Black Garden' (Spell Card)
"Whoa! Cool!" admired Lisa, staring at the middle card ('Garden Rose Flora'), "I like this card belonging to Carlie."
"I do, too," smiled David, before he started reading one of the card's effects, "Once per Chain, during your opponent's Main Phase, you can (Quick Effect): Immediately after this effect resolves, Synchro Summon using this card you control."
"It's even a Tuner Synchro Monster, just like Matt's 'Formula Synchron', 'Shooting Riser Dragon', and 'Accel Synchron'!" recalled Lisa, before she and David turned to face the audience, "Sherry and Carlie both are going to be fighting real hard. In fact, I think there are more cards out there you'll be really excited to see them use."
"I already know a few," acknowledged David, before she and David started waving goodbye to the audience, "But that's for next time. Until then, we'll see you all real soon!"
The audience cheered and clapped in response.
Title: Two Deadly Flowers
Opening up on the streets of Hartford during the same day as Misty's death at the hands of Azrael, it was currently very early in the morning and very few people were roaming around minding their own business. However, there were two people in particular who were out on the streets at the crack of dawn…
"Attaque!" hollered Sherry in French.
Sherry LeBlanc was shown riding her Duel Runner, Sturm und Drang, and in command of her ace monster 'Chevalier de Fleur', who, upon being commanded, turned and charged towards Shinji Weber, riding Killer Wasp. Upon getting close enough, 'Chevalier de Fleur' raised her drawn sword and struck Killer Wasp, defeating Shinji (LP: 2300 → 0).
DUEL RESULTS: Sherry LeBlanc wins!
Steam emitted from Killer Wasp (while the monitor repeatedly flashed the word 'Defeat'), causing it to stop near a set of traffic lights. Shinji simply sighed as he watched Sherry triumphantly pull up beside him.
"Well, you beat me again," remarked Shinji, "If you ask me, I think you're more than ready to take Carlie on."
As the two turned onto the next street when the lights turned green, following from behind on his own Duel Runner was Elsworth, having followed them throughout their Turbo Duel to watch and give his two cents.
"M'lady, you've been getting stronger and stronger with each day you duel Master Shinji and myself," praised Elsworth, as he pulled by beside Sturm und Drang, "We are very proud of you."
"Even though I've been 'letting' you win," cracked Shinji.
Sherry looked over, "Oh?" she grinned, "Is that so? You're afraid of hurting me with nothing but your best?"
"Hey, I never said that," defended Shinji playfully, "All I'm saying-"
"In that case, when we next duel, go at me with nothing but your best!" cut in Sherry, making a dare.
"Ask and you shall receive!"
The two friends then laughed over their banter towards each other. Yup, Shinji was one of the very few people, if not the only person, who was able to get Sherry to lighten up—and Sherry really enjoyed having him in her company. Once the laughter stopped, the three Duel Runners stopped outside the hotel the trio were staying at. Sherry removed her helmet and looked at it and became more serious-sounding.
"Tomorrow's the day Carlie and I settle things for good," she confessed.
"You're determined to have that duel in 'that' one place, yes?" pressed Elsworth.
"I am," confirmed Sherry, before seeing a reflection of Carlie in the faceplate of her helmet, "I'll never admit this to Carlie, but I needed this extra practice."
The reflection of Carlie smiled sweetly, but then the reflection instead showed an insane-looking Carlie dueling against Matt in what might possibly be one of the most violent duels anyone has ever seen—and Sherry and Shinji were ones who had seen it for themselves.
"Even if Carlie was being controlled by the Dark Signers," The voice of Sherry went on, as the reflections of different moments of said duel were shown, "the amount of brutal strength she displayed against Matt showcased just how powerful her Deck truly is when used correctly. If it weren't for the fact that she was dueling Matt, she could have defeated her Orb friends and all of the other Signers—maybe even the King, Michael Atlas."
The reflection ended, and Sherry looked at Shinji and Elsworth with the most serious expression they've ever seen from her.
"Had I dueled Carlie in that state, I don't think I would've stood a chance," confessed Sherry, before looking down at her Deck Holder for a few seconds, "But now that Carlie is back to normal, we'll see if she will demonstrate that same level of strength she showed as an enemy to the Signers."
"So, Sherry…" Shinji spoke up, causing her to look over, "About your Deck… Will you be mixing things up for your duel? You're no doubt aware that Carlie definitely knows all of your strategies."
Sherry responded by holding up her Deck and staring long and hard at it; that was a very good question, indeed. Sherry knew damn well that Carlie was well acquainted with her Deck and strategies, but was absolutely confident that she had a few hidden surprises in store.
(elsewhere…)
Inside Orb's Turbo Duel Stadium…
"I activate 'Splendid Rose's' first effect!" declared Carlie, riding Bloody Kiss. Her monster, 'Splendid Rose' extended her vines into the Duel Runner's GY and pulled out a Monster Card ('Bird of Roses') before crushing it into dust, "Once per turn: I can banish 1 Plant monster from my GY, then target 1 face-up monster my opponent controls; I must halve that target's ATK, until the end of this turn."
From there, 'Splendid Rose' extended her vines again, this time constricting none other than 'Power Tool Dragon'.
"What?!" David, the opponent, cried out.
'Power Tool Dragon's' ATK then dropped by half (ATK: 2300 → 1150).
"Battle," continued Carlie calmly, entering her Battle Phase. As she issued the command to attack, 'Splendid Rose' made one of her vines into a whip and cracked it, "My 'Splendid Rose' will attack 'Power Tool Dragon'!"
'Power Tool Dragon' got hit by the vine-like whip.
"I activate 'Power Tool's' second effect!" panicked David, just as he made his face-up 'Power Pickaxe' Spell Card shatter into shards of glass and caused 'Power Tool Dragon' to glow white and resist being destroyed, "If this card would be destroyed while equipped with an Equip Spell(s), I can send 1 of those cards to the GY instead."
"Hm… But you'll still take the damage!" reminded Carlie.
Shutting his eyes for a few seconds, David glowed red and winced as he sustained major damage from the battle (LP: 1600 → 550).
"And now, it's all over for you," uttered Carlie.
"Huh?" pondered David.
"I activate the second effect of 'Splendid Rose'!" answered Carlie, before holding up another card ('Lord Poison') before allowing it to fade away into oblivion, "During the Battle Phase, if this card attacked: I can banish 1 Plant monster from my GY; I must halve this card's ATK until the end of this turn, and if I do, this card can make a second attack during this Battle Phase."
'Splendid Rose's' ATK was halved (ATK: 2200 → 1100).
"Izayoi-san, now you can't overpower my monster!" David pointed out.
He was wrong about that.
"Next, I'll activate a Trap, 'Black Rose Seed'!" announced Carlie, as she made a Set card appear on the field beside her (on her right). It then flipped face-up and revealed itself, "I must target 1 face-up Plant monster on my field; it gains 800 ATK/DEF until the end of this turn."
A large seed appeared above 'Splendid Rose' and broke apart, causing specks of glow dust to rain down upon her and enhance her weakened stats (ATK: 1100 → 1900/DEF: 2000 → 2800).
"N-No way!" cried David.
"Now again!" boomed Carlie, as 'Splendid Rose' cracked her vine-like whip at 'Power Tool Dragon' again, "'Splendid Rose', attack 'Power Tool Dragon' again!"
'Power Tool Dragon' got hit again, this time shattering into shards of glass. David winced again as his LP gauge found itself empty from the attack (LP: 550 → 0).
DUEL RESULTS: Carlie Izayoi wins!
In the stands, Lisa and the three Astray girls cheered over the exciting Turbo Duel's conclusion. Back on the track, both The Wild Card and Bloody Kiss came to a stop as Carlie removed her helmet and smiled over her victory. She then sensed someone approaching and looked to find David walking over to see her.
"Victory is yours, Izayoi-san," admitted David, "Any particular reason you wished to face off against me specifically?"
"Besides the obvious practice duel for when the Dark Signers come, it's to prepare for my incoming battle with Sherry" replied Carlie, "She'll be leaving Hartford soon to return to Salt Lake City in Utah—which means our rematch will be coming at that time."
"Izayoi-san…" whispered David.
"Heeeey!" The voice of Lisa called out, just as she (Lisa), Asagi, Mayura, and Juri ran towards them, "Great duel, you two!" Her focus then went squarely onto Carlie, "So, you and Sherry will be duking it out soon? Dontcha worry, you'll do just fine."
Carlie just smiled. Oh, but if only Lisa stopped there…
"James might have gotten clobbered by Sherry," Lisa rambled on, "but that was because of a massive oversight on his part and he had a massive stick up his ass!"
"Lisa-chan!" scolded David, "I do not believe such coarse language is warranted when referring to Hogan-kun!"
"Pfft! Whatever you say, 'Mom'," Lisa dismissed sarcastically, before she (Carlie) resumed speaking to Carlie, "Anyway, as for you, Carlie," The brown-haired young woman listened carefully to what else she (Lisa) had to say, "you're far more careful at planning out your strategies and can definitely keep your head cool more easily."
"Though there is one vital matter to address," interrupted David, "If Sherry-san is so familiar with you, then by this point, she would be well equipped with the knowledge of your dueling tactics and strategies."
"I'm aware of that, Dave," said Carlie firmly, "Sherry's spent a long time trying to defeat me."
"Sherry is a lot of things," frowned Lisa, "Many of which I can't say out loud with 'mister manners' here breathing down my neck," She cast a quick glance at David, who rolled his eyes in response, before looking at Carlie and resuming, "But she sure as hell ain't your stereotypical blonde idiot. Not at all; she's smart enough to realize that you know most of her strategies almost just as well."
There was a long silence… It was eventually broken by another familiar voice calling out to them.
"Hello?!" The voice of Zack echoed, "Are you still here, Carlie?"
The voice caused everyone to look nearby, where they saw Zack standing in the doorway leading inside the stadium lobby. Pleased, he ran towards the very small group until he stopped near them and bent over with his hands on his knees.
"Glad I found you, Carlie," panted Zack, before standing back up tall, "Can you come with me for a moment? I'd like to talk to you alone."
Carlie blinked a couple of times, but complied with the request. Once the two were gone from the track…
"Any idea what Zack wants to talk to Carlie about?" asked Mayura.
Asagi silently shook her (Asagi) head, while Lisa, Juri, and David each stared at the doorway Carlie and Zack left through, all while the sun continued to shine in the sky. Eventually, the sky turned dark with the moon being in place of the sun.
(elsewhere…)
Inside his dorm, Matt and Ashima were busy talking about their earlier meeting with Zack regarding two cards the latter was given. They had been very quiet for the last few hours since then, and most of the silence was very tense for obvious reasons.
"Ashima…" whispered Matt.
Ashima sighed, "I know," she answered, holding onto her 'Lyrilusc' Deck—which still contained all the very negative thoughts and emotions from her possession by the Dark Signers, "I have both cards in my Deck."
"But are you comfortable with following Zack's suggestion?" pushed Matt.
"No, not really," said Ashima honestly, "But his reasoning and suspicions have more credibility than I'd like to admit," She shut her eyes, "I just hope I can overcome my demons to play the card."
"Well then," Matt suddenly smiled, wrapping his right arm around Ashima's shoulders, "why don't we just forget about it for a little while and watch some TV?"
Opening her eyes, Ashima felt better by the suggestion, and sat down on the bed with the love of her life as Matt raised the remote and pressed a button. The TV Set turned on, but on one of the biggest news channels in the country—and Megan was in the process of delivering some important breaking news from earlier that day.
"This is Megan Haw reporting on location in the middle of lower Manhattan," The image of Megan reported, "Famous and beloved actress/model Misty Tredwell has been…" She motioned her right arm towards the scene with many people gathered around, "…found dead after what witnesses claim to be a fall from a fifty story building."
The body of the aforementioned Misty was being examined by police officers while a hospital gurney was being wheeled in. Other officers were inspecting the broken window where she had fallen, while nearby citizens watched with horror and sorrow. Matt and Ashima watched what was on TV in shock, knowing this was a big emergency. Without wasting a second, Matt took his cellphone out of his jacket pocket and dialed a number. Seconds later…
"Mike, get everyone to the gymnasium for a meeting," ordered Matt, "Ashima and I've learned something really bad."
(elsewhere…)
In the gymnasium, the reception to the news was not good.
"It can't be…" murmured Sean.
"Misty's actually gone…" added Janice.
"It's not fair," Asagi said tearfully, seeing as Misty was her (Asagi) favorite actress, "Misty promised me that we'd star in a movie together someday… Why was she taken from this world so soon!?" She looked up with desperation, "Matt, who did it? Who could have done such a horrible thing?!"
"I don't know," admitted Matt grimly, "According to the news, Misty was found in the middle of the road, having fallen from a fifty story building," He then looked down at his left arm (with the Duel Disk), "But she was wearing a Duel Disk at the time, meaning she was most likely in a duel when she was killed."
"As for who she was dueling, we also don't know," put in Ashima, narrowing her eyes as she said something else, "Considering the scale of the damage, it would hardly surprise any of us if the Dark Signers are responsible."
"The Dark Signers…" muttered Juri.
James R. clenched his right hand into a fist and slammed it on the arm of his seat.
(elsewhere…)
Inside the hideout of the Dark Signers, Orga, Clotho, Shani, and Vincent had been watching the crystal globe, particularly the quick beatdown Azrael had delivered to Misty before sending her out of her penthouse home to her death.
"Our headmaster did it," grinned Orga.
"He destroyed that worthless model," agreed Clotho, "Just like I did back in Godwin's tournament."
"That gives us our final Dark Signer, right?" slurred Shani.
"Great!" interrupted Vincent loudly, which caused the three Bio-CPU boys to look over while scowling. He looked very excited, "This means we're about to wage war on the Signers… That also means I can finally get ready to fight 'robo-boy'," In his mind… "Get ready, you &$#! I'm gunning for you! Try to look forward to it."
(elsewhere…)
Inside one of Orb's cafeterias the next morning, everyone there, including several other students, were looking rather gloomy after learning that Misty had been killed last night in a duel. Sherry, Shinji, and Elsworth arrived at some point.
"Hey, guys!" greeted Shinji, but then noticed the dull atmosphere, "Whoa… Did we…come at a bad time or something?"
"Let's just say you did," sighed James R., "Last night, we found out on the news that Misty Tredwell, famous actress and model, was killed."
"Killed?!" Elsworth and Sherry both exclaimed at once.
"It's all true," groaned Asagi, as Juri and Mayura both placed a hand on her shoulder and left arm respectively, "And it sucks she died."
"We think the Dark Signers were behind the attack," figured Michael.
"The Dark Signers?" repeated Elsworth, before growing solemn himself, "I offer my condolences to Ms. Tredwell."
Sherry felt bad for the deceased Misty, but then turned her (Sherry) attention towards Carlie and the primary reason for the return to Orb.
"Carlie, it's time," began Sherry.
"Eh?" peeped Carlie.
The rest of the group heard the statement from Sherry and realized what it meant.
"Does she mean-?" gasped Sean.
Sherry nodded, "Yes," she confirmed, "It's time for our final battle."
"I knew it," grunted James R..
Carlie also understood how much this meant, given how their 'last' duel ended. A flashback to said duel then began.
FLASHBACK
In the streets of New York City, the reunion duel between Carlie and Sherry was nearing the end.
"Finally…" Flashback Sherry began calmly, "After all these years of waiting, I will get even with you! the way you hurt me back in the orphanage… I have never forgotten the trauma you left on me, Carlie Izayoi… No… 'Black Rose Witch'!"
"Sherry…!" stammered Flashback Carlie, horrified, having not heard that nickname in over a long time, "I…"
"Save your words for 'after' your defeat!" declared Flashback Sherry viciously, thrusting her hand into the air, "Bataille!"
However, just before she could call out her game-winning attack, the sound of police sirens filled the air.
"Huh?" gasped Flashback Sherry.
"The police!?" added Flashback Carlie.
Three police cars were beginning to catch up to the two Duel Runners. Flashback Sherry cursed silently, dismayed that she had to end the duel without defeating her opponent.
"It looks like this duel will have to be inconclusive," admitted Flashback Sherry, looking at Flashback Carlie.
"What?!" cried Flashback Carlie.
With that said, the holograms of both 'Ignoble Knight of High Laundsallyn' and 'Black Rose Dragon' faded away.
"However, this will not be the last time you see me," Flashback Sherry warned, looking at Flashback Carlie one last time, "We 'will' meet again, and I 'will' pay you back for the trauma you left on me."
Instead of pulling over and stopping, she made Sturm und Drang move even faster, escaping into the distance.
END FLASHBACK
The flashback ended, and Mr. Zimmerman, who was also in the gymnasium, stood up and approached Sherry.
"Very well," he accepted, "You and Carlie can use our school's duel arena for your match."
"No, thank you," refused Sherry, to Mr. Zimmerman's surprise, "Sir, with all due respect, it's not a suitable location for our duel. I have a better stage prepared—and it will not be a Turbo Duel."
"Wait, not a Turbo Duel?" blinked Asagi.
"The limitations of 'High Speed World' would only hinder the max potential of our Decks," explained Sherry, before looking at Carlie, "You know that, don't you?"
Carlie was silent as she looked at her Deck. Sherry took the silence as agreeing with her about that.
"And now…" As Sherry spoke, she looked towards Matt, Michael, James R., David, Lisa, and Zack, "I will only allow you six to join us, Elsworth, and Shinji to watch our match."
"Hey!" snapped Janice, offended, "Why can't we come?!"
"It's Sherry's request," reminded Sean, "I don't like it, but we should at least honor it."
"I guess that's true," acknowledged Mayura, before looking at Carlie with a grin on her (Mayura) face as she (Carlie) listened, "Kick her butt, Carlie!"
"We know you can do it," encouraged Ashima.
"And remember; win or lose, just do your very best," finished Mr. Zimmerman.
Smiling, Carlie nodded. She then lost her smile before facing her former best friend.
"Alright, Sherry," accepted Carlie, "What place did you have in mind for our duel?"
Sherry smiled in response.
(elsewhere…)
Ten minutes later, Sherry, Elsworth, and Shinji led Team 6D's to an old playground somewhere in the city.
"This will be our dueling ground," declared Sherry, holding both hands out, "It's the perfect stage for your defeat, Carlie!"
The group looked around; while it was unfamiliar to Matt, Lisa, and David (they were never at that old orphanage in California), it was faintly familiar to everyone else.
"This old playground…kinda resembles the playground at the old orphanage we briefly lived in," muttered Zack.
"Does this mean Sherry is trying to put psychological pressure on Carlie?" pondered Matt.
"It would seem so," Michael figured, frowning while also looking intrigued, "This is getting interesting."
Over with Carlie and Sherry…
"Carlie, I would have preferred our battle to take place at the one place where our rivalry first started, the old orphanage in California," said Sherry, "But with the growing threat of the Dark Signers and how far away our old home is, we can't afford going to that location at the moment," While she (Sherry) spoke some more, Carlie listened to the explanation carefully before looking at her (Carlie) Deck, "So this old playground is the next best thing; it's like fate has set this all up for us!"
"Sherry…" thought Carlie, before gritting her teeth over the memories of the past, "When we lived at the orphanage, I traumatized you after I lost my temper and control of my powers," A thought bubble then came up and showed footage of her (Carlie) duel with Sherry when they reunited in New York City, "When we met up just before Godwin's tournament, you outmatched me in our brief Turbo Duel," The bubble popped, and she addressed her rival more directly, "I accept your choice of location for our final battle—it's the perfect setting!"
"Carlie…" uttered James R..
"I know, James," responded Carlie, overhearing her friend, "But I won't be satisfied as a duelist unless I beat Sherry."
"You know you've never beaten me at anything before," recalled Sherry harshly.
"Our last duel was never finished," Carlie pointed out, glaring back, "But the undeniable fact is that you won that time, as well."
"You already know I wasn't even using my full strength in that duel," frowned Sherry, "If the match had finished like that, I wouldn't have been satisfied with an undeserved… Carlie Izayoi!" She then pointed forth, "For this duel, you and I will hit each other with nothing but our best!"
"I accept your request!" agreed Carlie loudly, activating her Duel Disk.
Sherry activated her own Duel Disk back as both players took their spots on the field as everyone stood back and watched.
"I have no idea who's going to win this grudge match," said Shinji, "However, if both sides are dueling at their best, it'll be anybody's guess on who will emerge victorious."
Seconds later, hands were drawn.
"Let's go! Duel!" Sherry and Carlie announced at the same time (LP: 4000) x2.
And so, the big grudge match between both former friends finally began.
"The first turn will go to me!" requested Carlie.
"Bring it, Carlie!" dared Sherry.
Over with Elsworth and Shinji…
"It begins… the final battle between them," whispered Elsworth.
"Sherry… Carlie…" added Shinji quietly.
Back on the field…
"Here I come, Sherry! It's my turn!" declared Carlie, drawing a card, "Draw!"
Turn One: Carlie Izayoi (LP: 4000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "White Rose Dragon", "Fragrance Storm", "Twilight Rose Knight", "Glow-Up Bulb", "Instant Germination"(!), and "Dark Rose Fairy"
Her drawn card was the Effect Monster Card known as 'Dark Rose Fairy', and the rest of her hand contained 'White Rose Dragon', 'Fragrance Storm', 'Twilight Rose Knight', 'Glow-Up Bulb', and 'Instant Germination'.
"Sherry will have made some serious modifications to her Deck," Carlie told herself, mentally, "Nevertheless, I'll finally face my old friend head-on and defeat her!" She took a card ('Twilight Rose Knight') from her hand, "I Summon 'Twilight Rose Knight'!"
Appearing onto the field was the young, light blue-haired knight-like monster (Level: 3/ATK: 1000/DEF: 1000).
"My 'Twilight Rose Knight's' second effect!" As she spoke, Carlie held up another card, "When this card is Normal Summoned: I can Special Summon 1 Level 4 or lower Plant monster from my hand," She turned the card ('Glow-Up Bulb') over and revealed what it was, "I Special Summon 'Glow-Up Bulb'!"
Appearing onto the field was the large flower bulb with one eye (Level: 1/ATK: 100/DEF: 100).
"Then I'll Special Summon a third monster," offered Carlie, placing one more card ('Dark Rose Fairy') onto her Duel Disk, "Come, 'Dark Rose Fairy'!"
Appearing onto the field was the familiar green-haired, female pixie wearing a gown shaped from black rose petals (Level: 2/ATK: 800/DEF: 1000).
"If a Tuner(s) is Special Summoned (except during the Damage Step): I can Special Summon this card from my hand," explained Carlie, going over her monster's first effect before holding up one more card ('White Rose Dragon'), "A fourth monster! Appear now, 'White Rose Dragon'!"
Appearing on the field was the 'Rose Dragon' with white rose petals (Level: 4/ATK: 1200/DEF: 1000).
"If I control a Dragon Tuner or Plant Tuner: I can Special Summon this card from my hand," Carlie said, going over her monster's second effect (which could only be used once per turn), "As of now, I control four different monsters."
"I already know what you're going to Synchro Summon," claimed Sherry.
"Then let's put that to the test?" smirked Carlie, "My Level 1 'Glow-Up Bulb'…" As the command was being given, 'White Rose Dragon' took to the skies, "…tunes Level 4 'White Rose Dragon'!"
'Glow-Up Bulb' turned into a single Synchro Ring as 'White Rose Dragon' flew into it, turning into four orbs of light as a Summon Chant echoed throughout.
"Soul of tenderness and honesty! Arise from the floral chambers with beauty and grace!" chanted Carlie, as the symbols 4 + 1 = 5 were shown briefly just before the four orbs of light within the lone Synchro Ring turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Flourish, 'Garden Rose Maiden'!"
Appearing onto the field, as the Synchro Summon sequence ended, was the familiar-looking blonde woman wearing a white gown that looked like it was made from white rose petals (Level: 5/ATK: 1600/DEF: 2400).
"'White Rose Dragon's' third effect!" announced Carlie, sending a card ('Staysailor Romarin') taken from her Deck directly to the GY, "If this card is sent to the GY as Synchro Material: I…" She looked back up, "…can send 1 Level 4 or higher Plant monster from my Deck to the GY."
"'Garden Rose Maiden'," growled Sherry, "I know what you're planning to do! You must have discarded 'Staysailor Romarin' from your Deck so you can activate her second effect."
"Yes, that's correct, Sherry," confirmed Carlie, before a card ejected from her Deck, "If this card is sent to the GY by a card effect: I can…" She took hold of the card ('Revival Rose') and sent it to her GY, "…send 1 Level 5 or lower Plant monster from my Deck or Extra Deck to the GY," The brown-haired young woman then held her right hand out and spoke of her Synchro Summoned monster, "Finally, I'll activate 'Garden Rose Maiden's' first effect! If this card is Special Summoned: I can add 1 'Black Garden' from my Deck or GY to my hand," Another card ('Black Garden') ejected from the middle of her Deck, which was taken and held out, "Here it is."
"Look out, everyone!" warned Zack, "Our first Field Spell is about to be played!"
Sure enough…
"Field Spell, 'Black Garden', activate!" yelled Carlie, slotting the added card into her Duel Disk.
From there, the scenery around the two duelists and their little audience began changing into a huge garden covered in vines. And Carlie was far from being finished…
"Level 3 'Twilight Rose Knight' tunes Level 2 'Dark Rose Fairy'!" she proclaimed.
'Twilight Rose Knight' turned into three Synchro Rings, which 'Dark Rose Fairy' cheerfully flew into before turning into two orbs of light—while a Summon Chant was heard.
"Beauty woven from the gardens of life! Spread open your arms and let shine the light of nature!" chanted Carlie, as the symbols 2 + 3 = 5 were shown briefly just before the two orbs of light within the three Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Blossom, 'Garden Rose Flora'!"
Appearing onto the field, as the Synchro Summon sequence ended, was what appeared to be a blonde-haired woman wearing a white gown that looked like it was made from white rose petals. This monster seemed to resemble 'Garden Rose Maiden' in a few ways, but had weaker stats and was a Tuner Synchro Monster (Level: 5/ATK: 800/DEF: 1600).
"The first effect of 'Black Garden' activates!" reminded Carlie, "If a monster(s) is Normal or Special Summoned face-up, except by the effect of 'Black Garden': I…" 'Garden Rose Flora' grew slightly weaker (ATK: 800 → 400) as she was held down in place by several thorn vines, while appearing on Sherry's field was a 'Rose Token' (Level: 2/ATK: 800/DEF: 800), "…must halve its ATK, then, the controller of that monster Special Summons 1 'Rose Token' to their opponent's field in Attack Position," She then revealed her new monster's first effect, "Then I'll activate the first effect of 'Garden Rose Flora's' first effect!" The audience listened to the explanation, "I can target 1 card in the Field Zone; I must destroy it, then Special Summon to its controller's field, 1 'Rose Token' in Attack Position, also I cannot Special Summon monsters from the Extra Deck for the rest of this turn, except Synchro Monsters!"
"Carlie is going to destroy her own 'Black Garden'," thought Sherry.
"I destroy my Field Spell, 'Black Garden'!" thundered Carlie.
'Garden Rose Flora' started glowing as she released spores all across the field. James R. sniffled a few times before letting out a sneeze, while Zack rolled his eyes. The face-up 'Black Garden' Spell Card soon shattered into shards of glass, returning the field back to the old playground.
"Even with 'Black Garden' gone, 'Garden Rose Flora' does not regain her lost ATK!" said Sherry hotly.
"I Special Summon my own 'Rose Token'!" retorted Carlie.
Sprouting up from the ground and onto Carlie's field, was none other than a 'Rose Token' (Level: 2/ATK: 800/DEF: 800).
"From my hand, I'll activate the Spell Card, 'Fragrance Storm'!" continued Carlie, making the mentioned Spell Card materialize face-up on the field.
"That is clever…" muttered Sherry, realizing exactly why Carlie gave her (Sherry) a 'Rose Token'.
"I must target 1 Plant monster on the field; I must destroy that target," explained Carlie, "and if I do, draw 1 card, then if that card is a Plant monster, I can reveal it and draw 1 more card," While talking on, a very fragrant breeze ran through the air, while Sherry's 'Rose Token' found itself withering away, "By destroying your 'Rose Token'…" She then drew a card and looked at it, "…I'll draw a card."
The drawn card was the 'Rose Princess' Effect Monster Card, thus Carlie revealed it since it was a Plant monster.
"I've drawn 'Rose Princess', a Plant monster, which means I can draw a second card," stated Carlie, drawing one more card. Then, after spending a second looking it over, held the card ('Rose Bell of Revelation') out, "Then I'll activate 'Rose Bell of Revelation'! I must add 1 Plant monster with 2400 or more ATK from my Deck to my hand!"
A giant rose bell appeared in the sky, ringing loudly as a card ('Tytannial, Princess of Camellias') ejected from Carlie's Deck, which she took and smiled at before looking up at Sherry once more. Sherry stayed stoic-looking as her opponent added the card into her hand and took one more out.
"I Set one card and finish my turn!" finished Carlie, slotting the card into her Duel Disk.
A face-down card appeared on the field near her feet.
"That's all you can do?" scoffed Sherry, "I was expecting new strategies from you, but instead you rely on your old strategies? How disappointing," She drew a card, "It's my turn! Draw!"
Turn Two: Sherry LeBlanc (LP: 4000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Sauge de Fleur", "Horse of the Floral Knights", "Réglage de Fleur"(!), "Pennant of Revolution", "Noble Knight's Shield-Bearer", and "Fleuret de Fleur"
Her drawn card was a Spell Card called 'Fleuret de Fleur', while the rest of her hand contained 'Sauge de Fleur', 'Horse of the Floral Knights', 'Réglage de Fleur', 'Pennant of Revolution', and 'Noble Knight's Shield-Bearer'.
"I Summon 'Horse of the Floral Knights'!" declared Sherry, placing a card onto her Duel Disk.
Appearing onto the field was a horse dressed in a knight's armor and golden helmet (Level: 3/ATK: 400/DEF: 800).
"If this card is Normal or Special Summoned: I can add 1 LIGHT 'Noble Knight' monster from my Deck to my hand," explained Sherry, going over her monster's first effect while drawing a card ('Noble Knight's Spearholder') and holding it out for a few seconds before putting it into her hand, "I add 'Noble Knight's Spearholder'!"
"Sherry is still going to use her 'Noble Knight' monsters," said James R., "I thought for certain she would use her 'Infernoble Knight' monsters."
"I activate 'Horse of the Floral Knights's' second effect!" interrupted Sherry, causing James R. to shut up. While explaining the effect, she held two cards ('Horse of the Floral Knights' and 'Noble Knight's Spearholder') up, "Once per turn, during my Main Phase: I can Fusion Summon 1 Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck, using this card I control and other monsters from my hand or field as Fusion Material," Appearing on the field was 'Noble Knight's Spearholder', "I fuse 'Horse of the Floral Knights' with 'Noble Knight's Spearholder'!"
Both 'Horse of the Floral Knights' and 'Noble Knight's Spearholder' started fusing together into a new monster.
"Noble stead of flowers. Wielder of the holy spear. Become one in the mystic vortex and ignite the revolution!" chanted Sherry, with the artwork of the 'Polymerization' Spell Card looming in the background. She then brought both hands together, "Fusion Summon! Come, 'Centaur Mina'!"
Appearing onto the field, upon the end of the Fusion Summon sequence, was the familiar red-haired centaur woman carrying a sword in one hand, and a shield in the other (Level: 6/ATK: 2200/DEF: 1600).
"Do you recognize this monster, Carlie?" taunted Sherry, "It's the same one I used against you in our duel in New York City. However, things will be different starting here!"
"How…different?" asked Carlie wearily.
"I activate 'Centaur Mina's' second effect!" Sherry answered, as a card ('Noble Knight's Spearholder') ejected from her GY and she took hold of it, "During my Main Phase: I can Special Summon…" She held her card up, "…1 Level 2 or lower monster from my hand or GY," As she gave an order for her monster to appear, returning to the field in a battle ready stance (Level: 2/ATK: 800/DEF: 400), "Resurrect, 'Noble Knight's Spearholder'!"
Over with the rest of Team 6D's…
"Okay, that Fusion Summon of 'Centaur Mina' caught me off-guard, but I'm still confident Sherry made no changes to her Deck," insisted James R..
"Then I suggest we continue watching," suggested Michael, with his arms folded, "If Sherry says things will be different, then we should believe her."
Back on the field…
"Carlie, do you know the big secret to my 'Noble Knight Spearholder'?" teased Sherry.
Carlie didn't respond.
"My monster's first effect activates!" Sherry went on, "If this card is Normal or Special Summoned: I can target 1 Level 8 or lower monster I control; its name becomes 'Fleur Synchron', also it is treated as a Tuner, until the End Phase."
"Amazing!" admired Shinji, "That means Sherry can use both of her monsters to Synchro Summon 'Chevalier de Fleur'!"
"Not so fast, Sherry," cut in Carlie, causing Sherry and Shinji both to look concerned, "I was waiting for you to do something like that."
"You were?" gasped Sherry.
"I activate the second effect of 'Garden Rose Flora'!" continued Carlie, "Once per Chain, during my opponent's Main Phase, I can (Quick Effect): Immediately after this effect resolves, I must Synchro Summon using this card I control."
"A Synchro Tuner!" Sherry realized, stunned.
"Level 5 'Garden Rose Flora' tunes Level 2 'Rose Token'!" confirmed Carlie.
'Garden Rose Flora' turned into five Synchro Rings, which hovered over, lowered, and surrounded the lone 'Rose Token' and caused it to turn into two orbs of light as a Summon Chant from Carlie followed.
"Chilling flames engulf the entire world. Pitch-dark flower, set into bloom!" Carlie chanted in a surprisingly chilling tone, as the symbols 2 + 5 = 7 were shown briefly. From there, the three orbs of light within the Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Appear now, 'Black Rose Dragon'!"
Emerging from the dying down pillar of light and onto the field, was none other than the dragon littered with rose-like features (Level: 7/ATK: 2400/DEF: 1800). This was 'Black Rose Dragon's' first appearance since it was used while Carlie was briefly fighting against her own friends due to the loss of of her current memories and having fallen into both darkness and pure insanity, which was all thanks to Muruta Azrael.
"Holy crap!" cried Shinji, "In no time at all, Carlie's going to nuke the whole field of cards!"
Back on the field, Carlie stood ready to give her ace monster instructions, but briefly stopped herself when she looked up and saw 'Black Rose Dragon' looking at her with curiousity.
"'Black Rose Dragon'… This is our first fight together since…I tried to kill our friends when I wasn't myself," said Carlie mentally, before looking down and closing her eyes, "I only hope you can forgive me for when I allowed myself to unknowingly and uncaringly hurt you and everyone else."
She then heard some soft growls, looked up, and opened her eyes. The way 'Black Rose Dragon' was growling seemed to resemble encouraging words. Sensing that her ace monster forgave her, Carlie smiled and resumed focus on the duel.
"'Black Rose Dragon's' first effect activates!" shouted Carlie, as 'Black Rose Dragon' roared before unleashing a wind blast, "When this card is Synchro Summoned: I can destroy all cards on the field! Black Rose Gale!"
The windy effect of Black Rose Gale was so powerful that Sherry along with the small audience could feel it as they all tried to stay on their feet. Soon enough, 'Black Rose Dragon' exploded into a storm of rose petals, destroying itself.
"Ngh… That Carlie…" grimaced Sherry, still bracing herself from the mighty force of the attack (effect), "This is a strategy she uses a whole lot in her duels, and it's a reason why she didn't go for using the effect 'Rose Princess'…" The falling rose petals destroyed every card on the field, "…to add 'White Rose Cloister' into her hand and activate it since it would be lost to 'Black Rose Dragon's' power!"
The wind-like attack (effect) soon died down, leaving calm behind.
"Carlie, I know all of your strategies!" accused Sherry.
"I'm aware," nodded Carlie, "However, there's one thing you aren't aware of; it's my Set card!"
"Your Set card?"
"This is what it's called," The brown-haired young woman then held up a card ('Instant Germination') taken from her GY, "Trap Card, 'Instant Germination'!"
"I've never seen it before!" confessed Sherry, shocked.
"If this Set card in its owner's control has left the field because of a monster effect, and is now in the GY: I can Special Summon 1 Plant monster from my Deck or Extra Deck," explained Carlie, before sending her 'Instant Germination' Trap Card back to the GY and taking another card ('Chirubimé, Princess of Autumn Leaves') from her Deck and holding it up, "Come forth, 'Chirubimé, Princess of Autumn Leaves'!"
Appearing onto the field was a huge flower bulb. Suddenly, it opened up, revealing a woman wearing a flower-like gown, with the bulb leaves flowing at the bottom (Level: 8/ATK: 1800/DEF: 2800). Over with the members of Team 6D's…
"Your opponent cannot target face-up Plant monsters for attacks, except this one," explained Zack, going over the first effect of Carlie's monster, "That will give Carlie some solid defense until she brings back 'Black Rose Dragon'."
"It's a smart move," commented David.
"It sure is," agreed Lisa, "I imagine Sherry must be feeling mighty pissed by that revelation."
Back on the field, Sherry looked a little frustrated by how well planned Carlie's strategy was. But at the same time, she was slightly impressed by it.
"Using 'Instant Germination' to cover up 'Black Rose Dragon's' nuke effect leaving you defenseless was a smart play, something to be expected from the master of the fearsome dragon," admitted Sherry, before looking at her GY for a few seconds, "But it won't put a damper on my further plans! I activate 'Noble Knight's Shield-Bearer's' second effect!" She held out a card ('Noble Knight's Shield-Bearer') before allowing it to dissolve into oblivion, "I can banish this card from my hand or field; I must add 1 Level 6 or lower WIND Beast monster from my Deck to my hand."
Carlie stood at ease, waiting to see what her opponent would take from her Deck—though she already had an inkling. Sherry, meanwhile, took a card from her Deck and looked at it, having picked a Monster Card known as 'White Steed of the Floral Knights'.
"'White Steed of the Floral Knights'," thought Sherry, before holding another card ('Fleuret de Fleur') out, "Then, from my hand, I'll activate the Equip Spell, 'Fleuret de Fleur'! I must activate this card by targeting 1 Level 2 or lower monster in my GY; I must Special Summon it, but negate its effects, also equip it with this card," A monster started to appear on the field near her feet, "Resurrect, 'Noble Knight's Spearholder'!"
Reappearing onto the field was a red-haired female monster dressed in Knight's armor, and holding a large spear, before being equipped with a fencing weapon known as a fleuret (Level: 2/ATK: 800/DEF: 400).
"You do know if I make 'Fleuret de Fleur' leave the field, your monster will be destroyed, right?" said Carlie knowingly.
"I'm aware of that," accepted Sherry, "Now comes my card's second effect! The equipped monster gains 700 ATK."
'Noble Knight's Spearholder' gained some power (ATK: 800 → 1500).
"What are you planning?" asked Carlie suspiciously.
"As I control a Level 2 or lower monster, I can Special Summon this monster from my hand in Defense Position," replied Sherry, before taking a card ('White Steed of the Floral Knights') from her hand and holding it up, "Appear now, 'White Steed of the Floral Knights'!"
Appearing onto the field was a majestic-looking white horse wearing armor, or in even simpler terms, an upgraded 'Horse of the Floral Knights' (Level: 6/ATK: 2400/DEF: 1800). Sherry then seemed to smile smugly for some reason as a low, humorless chuckle escape her lips.
"What's so funny?" demanded Carlie.
"This is but the first step in rewarding me the lead," Sherry answered, before holding up one more card ('Sauge de Fleur'), "I activate the first effect of 'Sauge de Fleur'! I can target 1 monster I control and 1 card on the field; I must Special Summon this card from my hand, and if I do, destroy them."
Flinching, Carlie sweated a little bit; she knew she was going to lose 'Chirubimé, Princess of Autumn Leaves'. And while Sherry would also lose 'White Steed of the Floral Knights', she would retain 'Noble Knight's Spearholder' and gain an even stronger monster in 'Sauge de Fleur'.
"Appear now, 'Sauge de Fleur'!" commanded Sherry.
Appearing onto the field was a woman dressed in a robe styled from a dark blue rose, and a similar styled staff (Level: 8/ATK: 2900/DEF 0).
"Since I've Special Summoned my monster," Sherry pointed out, "I destroy your 'Chirubimé, Princess of Autumn Leaves' and my 'White Steed of the Floral Knights'!"
Both 'Chirubimé, Princess of Autumn Leaves' and 'White Steed of the Floral Knights' shattered into shards of glass respectively.
"Sherry got rid of Carlie's only monster, and her LP are wide open for attack!" panicked Lisa.
"But notice that Izayoi-san is looking remarkably calm about it?" remarked David.
Lisa looked over, and it was true. On the field, Carlie was looking unafraid of the likely direct attacks she would receive—in fact, she seemed to smile. Now it was Sherry's turn to wonder what her opponent found so amusing. But before Sherry was able to ask, Carlie beat her (Sherry) to the punch.
"You fell for it, Sherry," uttered Carlie.
"Quelle?" said Sherry in French.
"I activate 'Chirubimé's' second effect!" declared Carlie, "If this card in my possession is sent to my GY by my opponent's card: I…" She held another card ('Talaya, Princess of Cherry Blossoms') up, "…can Special Summon 1 Plant monster from my Deck, except 'Chirubimé, Princess of Autumn Leaves'!" The card was then placed onto a Monster Zone on her Duel Disk, "Appear now, 'Talaya, Princess of Cherry Blossoms'!"
Appearing onto the field was yet another woman in a flower themed outfit (Level: 8/ATK: 2800/DEF: 1200).
"Excellent choice!" praised Matt, "The first effect of that monster makes her gain 100 ATK for each Plant monster under your control!"
"Including herself!" put in Michael, as, on the field, 'Talaya, Princess of Cherry Blossoms' was shown to grow stronger (ATK: 2800 → 2900), "'Talaya' will have 2900 ATK!"
"And she has a second effect, too!" recalled James R., going over the third gimmick, "Other Plant monsters on the field cannot be destroyed by card effects."
Sherry frowned a little bit over the roadblock in her way, but that wasn't going to stop her. No way! She would continuously attack and attack and attack until she (being Sherry) defeated Carlie once and for all.
"Bataille!" hollered Sherry in French, entering her Battle Phase, "'Sauge de Fleur', attack 'Talaya, Princess of Cherry Blossoms'!"
'Sauge de Fleur' obeyed, firing a blast from her flowery scepter.
"What?! Even though both monsters have the same ATK, she would battle anyway?" protested Lisa, "Is Sherry crazy or somethin'?!"
"No, she's intelligent, just like you said once before, Lisa-chan," corrected David, causing Lisa to look over, "Even if the attack destroys both monsters, Sherry-san still has 'Noble Knight's Spearholder' with 1500 ATK that can attack."
"Crap! You're right, Dave!"
Back on the field, 'Talaya, Princess of Cherry Blossoms' threw her fan like a dagger, bursting through 'Sauge de Fleur's' attack and impaling the wizard in the stomach, while the magical blast collided with 'Talaya, Princess of Cherry Blossoms'. Both attacks destroyed the respective monsters, but Sherry still had 'Noble Knight's Spearholder' ready to attack on command.
"The destruction of 'Sauge de Fleur' was not a waste," insisted Sherry, "I activate my monster's second effect!" A card ('Horse of the Floral Knights') ejected from her GY, which was then taken and placed into the Deck, "If this card is sent from the field to my GY: I can target 1 other monster in my GY; I must shuffle it into the Deck," She held up a card ('Necro Fleur') taken from her Deck, "then add 1 Level 1 Plant monster from my Deck or GY to my hand."
"'Necro Fleur'!" realized Carlie, "But I'll also activate a monster effect, this one belonging to 'Revival Rose'!" While speaking, appearing on the field was none other than 'Revival Rose' (Level: 4/ATK: 1300/DEF: 1300), "If a face-up Level 5 or higher Plant monster(s) I control is destroyed while this card is in the GY: I can Special Summon this card from the GY."
"I see," huffed Sherry, "You obviously sent it there using 'Staysailor Romarin's' effect," She resumed her Battle Phase, "That won't stop me! My 'Noble Knight's Spearholder' will attack 'Revival Rose'!"
'Noble Knight's Spearholder' impaled 'Revival Rose', causing the monster to shatter into shards of glass from destruction.
"Mm!" grunted Carlie, thankfully undamaged (LP: 4000).
"You clearly did anticipate and consider a lot of my strategies since you've been so well prepared for everything thus far; you're taking it as seriously as I had been hoping for," complimented Sherry, before taking two cards from her hand and inserting them into her Duel Disk, "I Set two cards and end my turn!"
Over with the little audience…
"Sherry… She's really been looking forward to this final duel for some time," said Michael sternly.
"I'll say," The voice of Lisa, which caused Michael to look over at her, "I initially denied her that battle when I won our duel in Godwin's tournament—she didn't take that loss too well."
"Deep down, though she's been using this as a means to make it up to Sherry, Carlie has likely been looking forward to their battle, too, since she has never been able to beat her," mused James R. thoughtfully.
"Now that they are dueling, they're not holding anything back in their attempts to defeat the other," finished Matt, "It's anybody's guess who will come out on top."
Back on the field…
"It's my turn!" announced Carlie, drawing a card.
Turn Three: Carlie Izayoi (LP: 4000)
Deck: 44
Current Hand (3): "Rose Princess", "Tytannial, Princess of Camellias", and "Kismet Blooming"(!)
While looking at her drawn card, an important thought came to her.
"My conflict with Sherry has led to this very moment; we're dueling in a similar setting where our friendship was first ruined," thought Carlie, before looking up at Sherry with studying eyes, "No matter what happens in our match, I will definitely find a way for us to become friends again," She held her drawn card ('Kismet Blooming') out, "I activate the Spell Card, 'Kismet Blooming'! I must banish 1 Plant Synchro Monster from my GY; I must draw 2 cards. I cannot Special Summon monsters from the Extra Deck this turn, except Plant Synchro Monsters," It was then she held up another card ('Garden Rose Flora'), "I choose to banish my 'Garden Rose Flora'…" The brown-haired young woman drew two more cards—one at a time, "…and draw two cards!"
Both cards were 'Roxrose Dragon' (Monster Card) and 'Enchanting Bouquet'(!) (Trap Card). The former card, however, got Carlie's attention in a big way. Knowing she would need to use it at some point, she moved on with her course of action.
"I activate 'Rose Princess's' second effect!" began Carlie, sending a card ('Rose Princess') to her GY. This caused a card ('White Rose Cloister') to eject from her Deck, which she took hold of, "I can discard this card; I must add 1 'White Rose Cloister' from my Deck…" The card was placed in her hand, "…to my hand."
"It's time," thought Sherry, and made a move, "Face-down card, open!" From there, her face-down card flipped face-up and revealed itself to be… "Trap Card, 'Réglage de Fleur', activate! I must target 1 Level 6 or lower non-Tuner monster in my GY; I must Special Summon it, and if I do, its name becomes 'Fleur Synchron', also it is treated as a Tuner," She then issued the command, "Resurrect, 'Centaur Mina'!"
From there, the red-haired centaur-like knight-based monster returned to the field (Level: 6/ATK: 2200/DEF: 1600).
"Now 'Centaur Mina' is a Tuner and named 'Fleur Synchron'," thought Carlie, before growing determined, "Nevertheless… This card will be pivotal in my victory," She held up one of her most important cards ('White Rose Cloister'), "From my hand, I'll activate the Field Spell, 'White Rose Cloister'!"
The audience gasped, aware that this was one of Carlie's favorite cards to use in a duel. Before long, the whole playground had turned into a lovely-looking castle garden with white roses littered in the bushes and trees. Sherry remembered it quite vividly from Carlie and Matt's duel, which gave the former a terrifying advantage before it was destroyed.
"It's funny, I kinda forgot how lovely this place could be," breathed Lisa.
"Looks can be deceiving, Lisa-chan," warned David, "As elegant as it is, we know it has some strong abilities that make it deadly."
Over with Shinji and Elsworth…
"M'lady… Mistress Carlie…" thought Elsworth, thinking about Carlie and Sherry for good reason, "How far will you both go in order to win the duel?"
In a frozen still within the heavenly garden, Carlie and Sherry faced each other as their respective desire to emerge victorious grew stronger and stronger while everyone else watched from the sidelines. Who was going to win? Nobody knew, since they both were very skilled duelists with equally powerful Decks.
The internet's been down last Thursday afternoon, and I didn't get it back until yesterday afternoon, just shortly after Christmas. It was very, very hard for me to do anything without the internet. But I'm back once again, and the long wait has rewarded all of you with a new chapter—very likely to be the last one for all of 2022. Anyway, I hope all of you had a good Christmas, and I'll see you all in the new year (2023). As ever, stay safe in these troubling times.