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
"He don't know me vewy well, do he?" (c) Looney Tunes
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
Title: The Into the Dawn Skies
Opening up inside James R.'s dorm during the same night after Michael had defeated Familiar of Red Nova for the final time and turned the quirky spirit into a Monster Card called 'Red Familiar', James R. and Shinji were watching some TV together. As their favorite program came to an end, a thought came to James R..
"Hey, Shinji," said James R..
"Yeah, man?" quizzed Shinji, looking over.
"Do you ever think I'll ever get a new card similar to the ones Matt, Mike, and Carlie each now have?"
"Where's this coming from all of a sudden?" The purple and aqua-haired young man pressed, no longer smiling and looking rather firm, "Dave and Lisa both don't have cards like those, yet they're happy with how they are."
"I know, I know," sighed James R., leaning back on the couch, "It's just that…" As he (James R.) admitted his problems, Shinji listened carefully, "You know, sometimes I feel as though I get the short end of the stick and treated like a joke by most people," He continued to look solemn, "With an exception of Shani not long ago, all the duels I've been in since staying here at Orb have either ended with no results or with me losing—seeing as you and Sherry both defeated me. Could it be that I'm losing my touch?"
"Hell no!" The voice of Shinji rebutted, getting James R.'s attention. He appeared to be displeased by what he heard from his best friend, "Sure, there have been duels where you got beat, but to the point of feeling like you're getting worse? For the love of Pete, James, you're still one of the strongest duelists in the country!"
A flashback ensued.
FLASHBACK
As Flashback James R. gave the command to tune, 'Blackwing Armor Master' soared into the three Synchro Rings as his whole body became outlined and revealed seven orbs of light from within.
"Don't you remember what happened during your duel with those Biological CPUs?" narrated Shinji, as the seven orbs of light within the trio of Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "You got serious and brought out 'Blackwing Full Armor Master'—an extremely powerful monster in its own right!"
Emerging from the beam of light and into the sky, was 'Blackwing Armor Master' wearing brand new armor, wielding a greatsword for a weapon, and with an arm cannon for the left hand. Soon, Flashback James R. was ready to take Flashback Shani out.
"'Full Armor Master', attack Shani directly!" commanded Flashback James R., as he thrust his right hand forward, "Black Full Hurricane!"
Nothing initially seemed to happen within the thick blanket of smoke. Flashback Shani, believing he would be spared, initially let out a sigh of relief. That, however, was false hope, as bursting out of the smoke with a battle cry was 'Blackwing Full Armor Master', and once close enough, he readied his sword and stabbed it into the center of Forbidden, causing Flashback Shani to let out a chopped off scream as the mighty 'Blackwing' Synchro Monster pulled the weapon out and retreated back near Blackbird. Outside the geoglyph, the group watched in stunned silence as Forbidden sparked and finally exploded, seemingly claiming the life of the Dark Signer.
"Yeah, I guess you have a point there," The voice of James R. admitted, as Flashback Orga shouted something, clearly shocked and saddened, but only for a few seconds. Feeling an animalistic rage building inside over the death of his (Flashback Orga) younger friend, he gritted his (again Flashback Orga) teeth with fury, "'Full Armor Master' was the one who took Shani out and helped weaken Orga's field enough for Mike to finish him off."
END FLASHBACK
The flashback ended, and James R. smiled a little bit over the memory. Shinji grinned right back, glad to have cheered James R. right back up. Just then, the two friends heard a knock on the door.
"Come in?" called James R..
The door opened, and Zack walked inside.
"Zack? What brings you here?" asked Shinji.
"I'm just here to talk to James," replied Zack, as James R. blinked a few times, "Is that alright with you?"
James R. stood up, "S-Sure."
"I guess it's time for me to head back to see Sherry, anyway," yawned Shinji, standing up and stretching out his arms, "I'll see you guys tomorrow morning for breakfast."
"Have a good night, Shinji," encouraged Zack.
"Night!" waved James R..
As soon as Shinji left the dorm, James R. and Zack sat down at the nearby table to have their discussion. It started with Zack handing James R. a card.
"What's this?" pressed James R..
"It's something you've been wanting since Carlie received 'Ruddy Rose Dragon'," said Zack, "Now, I don't know how well it will function without having to go back and make some more modifications, so I need you to duel someone to make sure it's perfect."
"A duel?" repeated James R., looking at the card thoughtfully, "Hmm…" He then realized there was someone who could help test the card out, "Hold on a sec!"
Quickly, he (James R.) got up and raced out of the dorm, leaving Zack behind to wonder what was going on.
(outside…)
Down the hallway, Shinji was making his way to his own dorm where Sherry was waiting when…
"Wait a moment, Shinji!" The voice of James R. hollered, causing Shinji to stop and wonder where's the fire. He soon stopped, bending forward with his hands on his knees after a short run, "S-Stop right there! I challenge you to a Turbo Duel!"
"Huh?" gasped Shinji, "What's with the sudden duel request?"
"I just got a new card that I'm itching to try out," explained James R., holding up his new, unknown card, "Not only that, I remember how you defeated me when you first arrived, and now I want a rematch so we can officially settle the score."
A thoughtful-looking Shinji folded his arms, unsure what to make of being asked to duel this late at night. At first, James R. was certain the request was going to be refused—that fear was unfounded when Shinji grinned once more and decided to accept the challenge.
"You're on," accepted Shinji, before losing momentum and sweatdropping, "But…can we duel in the morning? It's almost midnight."
"Oh… Yeah, that's true," James R. admitted sheepishly.
With that said, both friends turned and walked away, now with something to look forward to in the morning.
(elsewhere…)
The next morning, bright and early, James R., riding Blackbird, and Shinji, riding Killer Wasp, were inside Orb's Turbo Duel stadium, ready to begin their rematch. In the stands, Zack, Carlie, and Sherry were watching—and Carlie, after taking a sip of her coffee, let out a yawn, since she was tired from having to wake up early to both water the plants and then go watch the duel.
"Did you give James the card?" asked Carlie sleepily.
"I did," confirmed Zack, "Now we're going to see if it's perfect, or needs some fine-tuning."
"If there's anyone who can help James with the test, it's Shinji," remarked Sherry positively, as her eyes were focused on both duelists on the track, "Win or lose, James will grow stronger with this duel."
Meanwhile, James R. and Shinji, prepared to duel, started to activate their respective Duel Runners.
"Field Spell, 'High Speed World', set on!" James R. and Shinji announced at once, before they pressed a button on the dashboard of their respective Duel Runners.
On the monitors of Blackbird and Killer Wasp, a whole new Spell Card materialized and activated.
"Duel Mode, engaged," came a computerized voice aboard the two, respective Duel Runners, "Autopilot activated."
From there, both Duel Runners became surrounded by a purple dome as autopilot activated. The countdown commenced; once three seconds were left…
"Turbo Duel!" began James R. (LP: 4000).
"Acceleration!" concluded Shinji (LP: 4000).
Once the last second ended, both Blackbird and Killer Wasp roared down the track, trying one-up the other by riding alongside the walls. Even so, it was Shinji who won the race, rewarding him with the first turn.
"Here we go, James!" declared Shinji, drawing a card, "It's my turn!"
Turn One: Shinji Weber (LP: 4000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Battlewasp - Barakat the Thrust"(!), "Battlewasp - Pin the Bullseye", "Battlewasp - Glaive the Edge"(!), "Battlewasp - Twinbow the Attacker", "Battlewasp - Arbalest the Rapidfire", and "Battlewasp - Sting the Poison"
Speed Counters: 0
His drawn card was the 'Battlewasp - Sting the Poison' Tuner Monster Card, which he added into his hand—which contained 'Battlewasp - Barakat the Thrust', 'Battlewasp - Pin the Bullseye', 'Battlewasp - Glaive the Edge', 'Battlewasp - Twinbow the Attacker', and 'Battlewasp - Arbalest the Rapidfire'. Taking the middle card ('Battlewasp - Glaive the Edge'), Shinji readied it between the index and middle fingers of his right hand.
"From my hand, I'll Special Summon 'Battlewasp - Glaive the Edge'!" began Shinji, placing the card onto his Duel Runner.
Appearing onto the field was a large wasp with a curved blade for a stinger (Level: 3/ATK: 500/DEF: 600).
"If I control no monsters: I can Special Summon this card from my hand, and if I do, add 1 'Battlewasp' Tuner from my Deck to my hand, except 'Battlewasp - Glaive the Edge'," explained Shinji, as 'Battlewasp - Glaive the Edge' flew above him and he went over its first effect, "For the rest of this turn, I cannot Normal or Special Summon monsters, except 'Battlewasp' monsters."
"'Battlewasp' monsters are all you play," noted James R..
"Of course," agreed Shinji, holding up a card ('Battlewasp - Dagger the Cloak') taken from his Deck, "I Normal Summon 'Battlewasp - Dagger the Cloak'!"
Appearing onto the field was another large wasp, this one having most of its body concealed by a cloak (Level: 2/ATK: 700/DEF: 1100).
"I activate 'Dagger the Cloak's' second effect!" continued Shinji, sending a card ('Battlewasp - Arbalest the Rapidfire') from his hand to the GY, "When this card is Normal Summoned: I can discard 1 Insect monster; I must…" He drew a card, "…draw 1 card."
Back in the stands…
"This will be good," uttered Sherry, causing Carlie and Zack to look over, "I anticipate not just one Synchro Summon from Shinji this turn, but a second one and major damage to James before the turn is over."
"You think that will happen?" wondered Carlie, before returning her focus to the track, "James…"
Back on the track…
"James, allow me to tell you of 'Dagger the Cloak's' first effect," offered Shinji, as focus went towards 'Battlewasp - Dagger the Cloak', "If this card I control is used as Synchro Material for a 'Battlewasp' monster, I can treat it as a non-Tuner," He smiled with confidence, "My Level 3 'Glaive the Edge' tunes Level 2 'Dagger the Cloak', who is treated as a non-Tuner!"
'Battlewasp - Glaive the Edge' turned into three Synchro Rings, which 'Battlewasp - Dagger the Cloak' flew into before turning into two orbs of light while a Summon Chant from Shinji was heard throughout.
"Furiously stinging needle, become a bow that can strike even heaven in a flash!" chanted Shinji, as the symbols 2 + 3 = 5 were shown briefly before the two orbs of light within the trio of Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Appear now, 'Battlewasp - Azusa the Ghost Bow'!"
Appearing onto the field, as the Synchro Summon sequence ended, was the humanoid Insect monster wearing white and rose red dress and wielding a bow and arrows (Level: 5/ATK: 2200/DEF: 1600).
"Oh great," mumbled James R. unhappily, "He's going to try bringing out 'that' monster!"
"I activate 'Glaive the Edge's' second effect!" continued Shinji, as the spirit of 'Battlewasp - Glaive the Edge' appeared above 'Battlewasp - Azusa the Ghost Bow', "If this card is sent to the GY as Synchro Material for a 'Battlewasp' monster: I must inflict 500 damage to my opponent!"
Sure enough, 'Battlewasp - Glaive the Edge' turned into an arrow for 'Battlewasp - Azusa the Ghost Bow', who then fired it, hitting Blackbird and making James R. grunt in pain as his LP took a small hit (LP: 4000 → 3500).
"The first effect of 'Azusa the Ghost Bow' activates here!" As Shinji explained the effect, 'Battlewasp - Azusa the Ghost Bow' prepared to attack again in a way by raising and aiming her bow directly at James R., "When my opponent takes effect damage from another 'Battlewasp' monster: I can inflict damage to my opponent equal to the original ATK of that monster!"
A second arrow was fired, striking Blackbird and reducing James R.'s LP some more (LP: 3500 → 3000).
"I'll also activate the first effect of 'Battlewasp - Twinbow the Attacker'!" As Shinji spoke and placed his next card ('Battlewasp - Twinbow the Attacker') onto his Duel Runner, appearing onto the field was a wasp-like monster with twin stingers (Level: 3/ATK: 1000/DEF: 500), "During my Main Phase: I can Special Summon this card from my hand, also I cannot Special Summon monsters from the Extra Deck for the rest of this turn, except Insect monsters!"
"Oh, this is not gonna be fun," bemoaned James R. dreadfully.
As expected…
"My Level 5 'Azusa the Ghost Bow' tunes Level 3 'Twinbow the Attacker'!" declared Shinji.
As James R. feared so much, 'Battlewasp - Azusa the Ghost Bow' turned into five Synchro Rings, allowing 'Battlewasp - Twinbow the Attacker' to fly into them and turn into three orbs of light.
"Resonant powers, carry the flames of resentment in your hands, and fire the arrow of rebellion!" chanted Shinji, as the symbols 3 + 5 = 8 were shown briefly before the three orbs of light within the five Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Level 8! 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow'!"
As the beam of light burst apart, standing on the field was the familiar humanoid 'Battlewasp' monster similar to 'Battlewasp - Azusa the Ghost Bow', but male, colored entirely green, had glowing red eyes, and a more powerful-looking bow for a weapon (Level: 8/ATK: 2800/DEF: 2000). James R. fretted facing 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow' so soon, considering the dangerous powers it had.
"So, James, I end my turn here!" concluded Shinji, before looking over his shoulder, "It's your turn, so do your worst!"
"S-Sure," gulped James R., drawing a card, "It's my turn!"
Now that it was the second turn of the duel, both players gained a Speed Counter:
-James R.: 0 → 1
-Shinji: 0 → 1
Turn Two: James R. Hogan (LP: 3000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Blackwing - Sudri the Phantom Glimmer", "Blackwing - Gale the Whirlwind", "Blackwing - Simoon the Poison Wind", "Blackwing - Calima the Haze", "Blackwing - Sharnga the Waning Moon", and "Cards for Black Feathers"
Speed Counters: 1
James R.'s drawn card was the 'Cards for Black Feathers' Spell Card.
"'Cards for Black Feathers'," James R. thought to himself, before remembering why he (James R.) challenged Shinji in the first place "This duel is the test for my new monster—I must pass it," He slotted the drawn card into his Duel Runner, "I activate the Spell Card, 'Cards for Black Feathers'!"
The mentioned Spell Card materialized face-up on the field beside Blackbird (on its left).
"I must send 1 'Blackwing' monster from my hand to the GY; I must draw 2 cards," explained James R., before sending a card ('Blackwing - Calima the Haze') to the GY and drawing two more cards, "Draw!"
Both cards were 'Blackwing - Brisote the Tailwind' (Monster Card) and 'Blackbird Close' (Trap Card), and they were added into his hand, which also contained 'Blackwing - Sudri the Phantom Glimmer', 'Blackwing - Gale the Whirlwind', 'Blackwing - Simoon the Poison Wind', and 'Blackwing - Sharnga the Waning Moon'.
"Yes," The voice of James R. acknowledged from checking his cards, before looking like he had an idea, "Yes, these will work nicely!"
"Mm?" quizzed Shinji, overhearing the comment
"If I control no monsters and have this card in…" began James R., taking and readying a card ('Blackwing - Simoon the Poison Wind') from his hand, "…my hand: I can banish 1 other 'Blackwing' monster from my hand; I must place 1 'Black Whirlwind' from my Deck face-up in my Spell & Trap Zone, then, either send this card to the GY, or immediately after this effect resolves, Normal Summon it without Tributing," As he (James R.) finished explaining the first effect, Shinji looked a little nervous, "I cannot Special Summon monsters from the Extra Deck for the rest of this turn, except DARK monsters," It was then he held up a card ('Black Whirlwind') taken from his Deck, "First, 'Black Whirlwind' will be placed face-up on my field."
Materializing face-up on the field in-front of Blackbird was the 'Black Whirlwind' Spell Card.
"From there, I'll send 'Simoon the Poison Wind' to the GY!" proclaimed James R., sending his card to the GY. He took another card ('Blackwing - Sudri the Phantom Glimmer') from his hand and placed it onto his Duel Runner, "Next, I'll Summon 'Blackwing - Sudri the Phantom Glimmer'!"
Appearing on the field was a black-feathered birdman with a long tail like a stinger and two large wings (Level: 4/ATK: 1400/DEF: 1400).
"I activate 'Sudri the Phantom Glimmer's' first effect!" James R. went on, "When this card is Normal Summoned: I can…" He held up a card taken from his Deck, "…add 1 card that mentions 'Black-Winged Dragon' from my Deck to my hand, except 'Blackwing - Sudri the Phantom Glimmer'!" Just then, as he spoke some more, the face-up 'Black Whirlwind' Spell Card activated, "As of now, the effect of 'Black Whirlwind' activates!" Yet again, the brown-haired young man held up a card ('Blackwing - Shamal the Sandstorm') taken from his Deck, "When a 'Blackwing' monster is Normal Summoned to my field: I can add 1 'Blackwing' monster from my Deck to my hand with less ATK than that monster!"
"I already know what you're going for!" countered Shinji, "You're gathering monsters for potential Synchro Summons!" He smiled thinly, "But don't think it's gonna be that easy," He then took and readied a card ('Battlewasp - Barakat the Thrust') in his right hand, aiming to use its first effect, "If my opponent activates a Spell/Trap Card or its effect: I can send 'Battlewasp - Barakat the Thrust' from my hand to the GY; I must…" He sent the card to the GY, causing another card to eject from the middle of the Deck, "…Set 1 'Battlewasp - Nest'…" The card was taken and slotted into a Spell & Trap Zone on the Duel Runner, "…directly from my Deck or GY. It can be activated this turn!"
Although concerned about the 'Battlewasp - Nest' Trap Card being activated and giving him quite the headache, James R. carried on with his turn.
"If a monster with 2000 or more ATK is on the field, I can Special Summon this card (from my hand)," As James R. said that, he held up a card ('Blackwing - Sharnga the Waning Moon') and placed it onto his Duel Runner, "I Special Summon 'Blackwing - Sharnga the Waning Moon'!"
Appearing on the field was a small black/orange-feathered monster with a flaming crown of sorts (Level: 2/ATK: 500/DEF: 500).
"I activate 'Blackwing - Shamal the Sandstorm's' first effect!" continued James R., before taking and sending a card ('Blackwing - Shamal the Sandstorm') from his hand to the GY, "I can send this card from my hand or field to the GY; I must place 1 'Black Feather Whirlwind'…" He held up another card ('Black Feather Whirlwind') taken from the Deck before slotting it into his Duel Runner, "…from my Deck face-up in my Spell & Trap Zone!"
The 'Black Feather Whirlwind' Spell Card materialized face-up on the field in-front of Blackbird, right beside the 'Black Whirlwind' Spell Card.
"'Black Whirlwind' and 'Black Feather Whirlwind'," admired Carlie.
"My Level 2 'Sharnga the Waning Moon' tunes Level 4 'Sudri the Phantom Glimmer'!" yelled James R..
'Blackwing - Sharnga the Waning Moon' flew higher into the air and turned into two Synchro Rings, which 'Blackwing - Sudri the Phantom Glimmer' flew into before turning into four orbs of light while a Summon Chant was heard from James R..
"Bladed wings that flap in the night! Stir up a windstorm that will slice chaos to shreds!" chanted James R., as the symbols 4 + 2 = 6 were shown briefly before the four orbs of light within the two Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! 'Blackwing - Boreastorm the Wicked Wind'!"
Appearing on the field, as the Synchro Summon sequence ended, was the bird-like swordsman with swords in its wing folds (Level: 6/ATK: 2400/DEF: 1200).
"'Boreastorm the Wicked Wind's' first effect activates!" exclaimed James R., holding up a card ('Blackwing - Auster the South Wind') taken from his Deck, "If this card is Synchro Summoned: I can…" He sent the card straight to the GY, which caused the spirit of 'Blackwing - Auster the South Wind' to appear on the field before merging with 'Blackwing - Boreastorm the Wicked Wind' and changing his Level (Level: 6 → 4) "…send 1 'Blackwing' monster from my Deck to the GY, and if I do, this card's Level becomes the same as that monster's!"
"All you need to do is Special Summon a Level 3 'Blackwing' monster," noted Shinji, "and you can Synchro Summon an ace monster like 'Armor Master' or 'Raikiri the Rain Shower'."
"Those are good choices, but I have a better one," corrected James R., "I activate the first effect of 'Black Feather Whirlwind'"
Shinji cringed, "What?!"
"Once per turn, if I Special Summon a DARK Synchro Monster from the Extra Deck (except during the Damage Step): I can…" explained James R., before holding up a card ('Blackwing - Brisote the Tailwind') taken from among his banished cards, "…target 1 of my 'Blackwing' monsters, or 'Black-Winged Dragon', that is banished or in my GY, with less ATK than that Special Summoned monster; I must Special Summon it," He placed the card onto his Duel Runner, "I Special Summon 'Blackwing - Brisote the Tailwind'!"
Appearing on the field was a black/orange/green/purple-feathered Winged Beast monster with two large wings (Level: 5/ATK: 1200/DEF: 1800).
"Also, if I control a 'Blackwing' monster other than 'Blackwing - Gale the Whirlwind', I can Special Summon this card (from my hand)," revealed James R., before taking one more card from his hand and slotting it into his Duel Disk, "Come, 'Blackwing - Gale the Whirlwind'!"
Appearing onto the field was the black-feathered monster with aqua-colored feathers around the head area (Level: 3/ATK: 1300/DEF: 400). In the stands…
"Rather than "Armor Master' or 'Raikiri the Rain Shower', James is going for his 'main' monster," realized Sherry.
Carlie and Zack silently waited for 'Black-Winged Dragon' to show up. Back on the track, 'Blackwing - Brisote the Tailwind' and 'Blackwing - Gale the Whirlwind' both took to the skies.
"My Level 3 'Gale the Whirlwind' tunes Level 5 'Brisote the Tailwind'!" The voice of James R. proclaimed, as the above scenario played out.
'Blackwing - Gale the Whirlwind' turned into three Synchro Rings, which 'Blackwing - Brisote the Tailwind' flew into before turning into five orbs of light.
"Darkened gales, reveal hidden wishes on your wings!" chanted James R., as the symbols 5 + 3 = 8 were shown briefly before the five orbs of light within the trio of Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Soar, 'Black-Winged Dragon'!"
Appearing out of the beam of light was the mighty bird-like dragon with white wings (Level: 8/ATK: 2800/DEF: 1600).
"Well, well, well! We haven't seen that one in quite a while," remarked Zack positively.
"I activate 'Brisote the Tailwind's' second effect!" From there, James R. felt himself recovering LP (LP: 3000 → 3600) "If this card is sent to the GY as Synchro Material: I must gain 600 LP!"
"Not bad, James," complimented Shinji, "However, even with 'Black-Feather' on your side, it will not be easy to defeat me and my 'Battlewasp' monsters!"
"I already have a way to get at your LP," retorted James R., and, to prove it, went on with his turn, "I activate 'Shamal the Sandstorm's' second effect!" A card ('Blackwing - Shamal the Sandstorm') ejected from his GY, then faded away into oblivion—just before another card ('Blackwing - Sudri the Phantom Glimmer') ejected, "If a 'Blackwing' Synchro Monster(s) or 'Black-Winged Dragon' is Special Summoned to my field, while this card is in my GY (except during the Damage Step): I can banish this card, then target 1 'Blackwing' monster in my GY; I must…" He held up the card and placed it into his hand, "…add it to my hand, then take 700 damage."
"Unfortunately for me, James is protected by the power of 'Black-Winged Dragon'," thought Shinji, "He can't be damaged by card effects so long as it's on the field."
"By adding 'Blackwing - Sudri the Phantom Glimmer' into my hand, I take 700 damage," said James R., "Or do I?"
A magical arrow shot out of the GY, got halfway into the sky, and attempted to fall towards Blackbird.
"I activate 'Black-Winged Dragon's' first effect!" announced James R., "Damage Drain!"
Just as the arrow was about to strike James R. and lower his LP, 'Black-Winged Dragon' got in the way and took the blow, causing it to roar as some of its feathers changed color and its ATK went down (ATK: 2800 → 2100).
"If I would take damage from a card effect, I must place 1 Black Feather Counter on this card instead," said James R., explaining the first effect of his ace monster. He then, as focus went to 'Black-Winged Dragon', revealed the second effect, "This card loses 700 ATK for each Black Feather Counter on it."
"Damaging effects like those that your 'Battlewasp' monsters have will never work on me so long as 'Black-Winged Dragon' is out," reminded James R., "And there's more!" As he revealed something else, an enlarged image of the 'Blackwing - Auster the South Wind' Tuner Monster Card loomed in the background, "I activate the second effect of 'Blackwing - Auster the South Wind'! I can banish this card from the GY to activate 1 of the following effects."
These were the effects written on the 'Blackwing - Auster the South Wind' Tuner Monster Card:
-"I must place Black Feather Counter(s) on 1 'Black-Winged Dragon' I control, equal to the number of card(s) my opponent controls."
-"I must place 1 Wedge Counter on each face-up monster my opponent controls that does not have one."
'Black-Winged Dragon' let out a roar as more of its feathers changed color, making it clear that James R. chose the first effect. With two more Black Feather Counters placed on it, 'Black-Winged Dragon's' ATK fell by 1400 (ATK: 2100 → 700). In the stands…
"Oh boy…" groaned Carlie, "Shinji better be ready to eat 2100 damage."
"Plus 'Hama the Conquering Bow' will lose 2100 ATK, making it lower than 'Black-Winged Dragon's' ATK," added Sherry.
Back on the track…
"I think it's time my ace monster unleashed all of the pain and power it stored up, wouldn't you agree?" smiled James R., "I activate 'Black-Feather's' third effect!" While talking away, 'Black-WInged Dragon' started charging something in its talons, "Once per turn: I can remove all Black Feather Counters on this card, then target 1 face-up monster my opponent controls; that target loses 700 ATK for each Black Feather Counter I removed, and if it does, I must inflict damage to my opponent equal to the ATK lost by this effect!" Once the attack was ready, he issued the order, "Black Burst!"
'Black-Winged Dragon' obeyed, firing a black shockwave-like ripple across the stadium. As Sherry and Carlie guessed, the targeted monster was 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow'. He lost most of his ATK from the shockwave (ATK: 2800 → 700), while Shinji was hit hard by the effect and lost massive LP (LP: 4000 → 1900). With no more Black Feather Counters, 'Black-Winged Dragon's' ATK returned to normal (ATK: 700 → 2800).
"Ugh… That was pretty good," winced Shinji, "But even you have to be aware that attacking me won't help, right?" Briefly appearing on the field in-front of Killer Wasp was a Set card ('Battlewasp - Nest'), "I have 'Battlewasp - Nest' on standby, ready to be activated should you declare an attack," In the stands, Sherry, Carlie, and Zack each listened to his words, "It will let me add more 'Battlewasp' monsters to my army, then end the Battle Phase."
Back on the track, James R. was aware of that, but he still had an idea to avoid actually attacking.
"I activate 'Sharnga the Waning Moon's' second effect!" announced James R., before holding up a card ('Blackwing - Sharnga the Waning Moon') for about two seconds before it faded away into oblivion and 'Blackwing - Boreastorm the Wicked Wind' got some focus, "If I control a 'Blackwing' Synchro Monster (Quick Effect): I can banish this card from my GY, then target 1 face-up card my opponent controls; I must destroy it! Because I control 'Boreastorm the Wicked Wind', I'll destroy your own 'Hama the Conquering Bow'!"
"Smart move…" grumbled Shinji, just as 'Blackwing - Boreastorm the Wicked Wind' drew out both swords and charged towards 'Battlewasp - Hamas the Conquering Bow'. Suddenly, he smiled cheekily, "Just kidding!"
"What?!" cried James R..
"I activate 'Dagger the Cloak's' third effect!" Shinji went on, as a card ('Battlewasp - Dagger the Cloak') ejected from his GY and faded away into oblivion—causing a magical barrier to form around 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow' and protecting him from being defeated by 'Blackwing - Boreastorm the Wicked Wind', "If a 'Battlewasp' Synchro Monster(s) I control would be destroyed by battle or card effect, I can banish this card from my GY instead!"
"Darn it…" complained James R., dismayed.
Back in the stands…
"James knows he can't attack 'Hama the Conquering Bow'," observed Zack.
"Because Shinji would activate 'Battlewasp - Nest', Special Summon a 'Battlewasp' monster, then end the Battle Phase," put in Carlie, "What is James going to do?"
"At this point, there isn't anything big he can do," answered Sherry.
Back on the track, James R. took a card from his hand, looked at it, then made one more move.
"I Set one card…" sighed James R., slotting the card into his Duel Runner, "…and enter my End Phase."
A face-down card materialized on the field in-front of Blackbird before fading away for later use.
"However, this causes the first effect of 'Blackwing - Simoon the Poison Wind' to finish up!" stated James R., as he pointed to his face-up 'Black Whirlwind' Spell Card and caused it to sink into the ground, "During the End Phase, I must send the 'Black Whirlwind' placed by this effect to the GY, and if I do, take 1000 damage!"
"But you can't take any effect damage!" remembered Shinji.
"'Black-Feather'!" called James R., as, in the sky, 'Black-Winged Dragon' responded to its name being echoed by him, "Damage Drain!"
Glowing red, 'Black-Winged Dragon' let out a roar as some of its feathers changed color (Black Feather Counter), and, from its second effect, lost some ATK (ATK: 2800 → 2100).
"I end my turn!" finished James R..
Blackbird and Killer Wasp crossed the finish line and began a new lap.
"It's my turn!" boomed Shinji, drawing a card, "Draw!"
Both players gained another Speed Counter:
-James R.: 1 → 2
-Shinji: 1 → 2
Turn Three: Shinji Weber (LP: 1900)
Deck: 50
Current Hand (4): "Battlewasp - Pin the Bullseye", "Battlewasp - Sting the Poison", "Battlewasp - Dart the Hunter", and "Battlewasp - Xyston the Spike"(!)
Speed Counters: 2
Shinji's drawn card was a Monster Card called 'Battlewasp - Xyston the Spike'. He added it into his hand and decided to play another card.
"I Summon 'Battlewasp - Sting the Poison'!" declared Shinji, placing the card onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Runner.
Appearing onto the field was the orange wasp-like monster (Level: 2/ATK: 400/DEF: 800).
"I activate my monster's first effect!" announced Shinji, drawing a card ('Battlewasp - Mace the Lunge'), "If this card is Normal or Special Summoned: I can add 1 'Battlewasp' monster from my Deck to my hand, except 'Battlewasp - Sting the Poison'!" Wasting no time, he placed the added card onto his Duel Runner, "I Special Summon 'Battlewasp - Mace the Lunge'!"
Appearing on the field was another large wasp monster; this one having a long mace chain ball in place of its stinger (Level 4/ATK: 1500/DEF: 1200).
"If this card is added to my hand, except by drawing it: I can Special Summon it, and if I do, my opponent draws 1 card," explained Shinji.
"I get to draw a card?" pressed James R., "Gee, that's generous of you…" He drew a card, "I draw!"
His drawn card was the 'Blackwing - Chinook the Snow Blast' Effect Monster Card, bringing relief to him as it would likely come in very handy. Shinji, meanwhile, had more he wanted to do.
"I also activate 'Mace the Lunge's' second effect!" proclaimed Shinji, before looking down at his occupied Monster Zones, "If this card is Normal or Special Summoned: I can Tribute 1 'Battlewasp' Synchro Monster; I must…" He continued to explain what his card did, "…Special Summon 1 Tuner Synchro Monster from my GY in Defense Position, with a lower Level than the Tributed monster," As soon as the explanation ended, he reached for the 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow' Synchro Monster Card on one of the occupied Monster Zones and removed it, "I Tribute 'Hama the Conquering Bow'!"
"Wait, you're Tributing your own ace monster?" gawked James R., watching as 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow' faded away in a blue streak, "Even if he's weakened and not able to attack so easily, you usually keep him around to the bitter end."
"Don't worry, he won't be gone forever," teased Shinji, before holding his right hand out, "Resurrect, 'Azusa the Ghost Bow'!"
Reappearing on the field was 'Battlewasp - Azusa the Ghost Bow' (Level: 6/ATK: 2200/DEF: 1600).
"My Level 2 'Sting the Poison' tunes Level 4 'Mace the Lunge'!" declared Shinji.
'Battlewasp - Sting the Poison' turned into two Synchro Rings, while 'Battlewasp - Mace the Lunge' flew into them and turned into four orbs of light.
"Flap your wings to stir up a shockwave, and let your sting open up the road of truth!" chanted Shinji, as the symbols 4 + 2 = 6 were shown briefly before the four orbs of light within the two Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Come, 'Battlewasp - Halberd the Charge'!"
Appearing from the beam of light and within the sky, was the large wasp-like monster with mechanical qualities and a large axe-like weapon (Level: 6/ATK: 2500/DEF: 800). This gave Shinji a real shot at destroying the weakened 'Black-Winged Dragon', but he wanted to up the ante.
"If I control an Insect monster: I can Special Summon this card from my hand," said Shinji, taking a card ('Battlewasp - Pin the Bullseye') from his hand. He placed the card onto his Duel Runner, "Come, 'Battlewasp - Pin the Bullseye'!"
Appearing onto the field was the small bee-like monster with a rocket pack for a backside (Level: 1/ATK: 200/DEF: 300).
"My Level 5 'Azusa the Ghost Bow' tunes Level 6 'Halberd the Charge'…" The voice of Shinji declared, just as 'Battlewasp - Halberd the Charge' and 'Battlewasp - Pin the Bullseye' both took to the skies, "…and Level 1 'Pin the Bullseye'!"
'Battlewasp - Azusa the Ghost Bow' turned herself into five Synchro Rings, allowing 'Battlewasp - Halberd the Charge' and 'Battlewasp - Pin the Bullseye' to fly into them and turn into seven orbs of light (six for 'Battlewasp - Halberd the Charge', and one 'Battlewasp - Pin the Bullseye'), all while a Summon Chant was heard from Shinji.
"Let the power of solidarity's bonds spear through the walls of overwhelming, disdainful evil!" chanted Shinji, as the symbols 6 + 1 + 5 = 12 were shown briefly just before the seven orbs of light within the five Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Appear, Level 12! 'Battlewasp - Ballista the Armageddon'!"
Appearing from the beam of light and flying in the sky above Killer Wasp, was the gigantic mechanical wasp littered with weaponry (Level: 12/ATK: 3000/DEF: 800). The monster's shadow loomed over Blackbird as James R. remembered how it beat him the first time.
"It has all come down to this, man," commented Shinji, "I activate 'Ballista the Armageddon's' first effect!" Within the abyss (GY), several cards ('Battlewasp - Glaive the Edge', 'Battlewasp - Twinbow the Attacker', 'Battlewasp - Arbalest the Rapidfire', 'Battlewasp - Barakat the Thrust', 'Battlewasp - Sting the Poison', 'Battlewasp - Mace the Lunge', 'Battlewasp - Pin the Bullseye', 'Battlewasp - Azusa the Ghost Bow', 'Battlewasp - Halberd the Charge', and 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow') were shown emerging before fading away into oblivion, "If this card is Special Summoned: I can banish all Insect monsters from my GY; all monsters my opponent currently controls lose 500 ATK/DEF for each of my banished Insect monsters!" 'Battlewasp - Ballista the Armageddon' sent out sonic waves, in an attempt to weaken all of James R.'s monsters, "I banish all ten of my 'Battlewasp' monsters in the GY, giving me eleven banished Insects in total, which will reduce all of your monsters' ATK and DEF by 5500!"
"Not this time, Shinji!" rebutted James R..
"What?!" flinched Shinji.
"From my hand, I'll activate the Counter Trap, 'Blackbird Close'!" announced James R., holding up a card ('Blackbird Close') before slotting it into his Duel Runner. The mentioned Trap Card materialized face-up on the field in-front of Blackbird, "When a monster my opponent controls activates its effect: I can send 1 face-up 'Blackwing' monster I control to the GY; I must negate the activation, and if I do, destroy it, then, I can Special Summon 1 'Black-Winged Dragon' from my Extra Deck!"
"Damn… Because James controls a 'Blackwing' Synchro Monster, he can activate that card from his hand," thought Shinji, before smiling a little bit, "I guess that's life."
As 'Blackwing - Boreastorm the Wicked Wind' faded away, 'Black-Winged Dragon' roared and flew into 'Battlewasp - Ballista the Armageddon', preventing it ('Battlewasp - Ballista the Armageddon') from completing the effect.
"Take 'Ballista the Armageddon' down, 'Black-Winged Dragon'!" commanded James R., as 'Black-Winged Dragon' opened its mouth and charged its signature attack, "Noble Stream!"
'Black-Winged Dragon' fired a powerful blast towards 'Battlewasp - Ballista the Armageddon', striking the powerful Insect monster and destroying it in a massive explosion.
"I did it!" cheered James R., "I took down the monster that beat me last time!"
"You sure did, James," agreed Shinji, still smiling, "I'm actually pleased you did," He then dropped a bombshell, "Because that's what I wanted you to do!"
James R. recoiled, "Wait, what?" he peeped, "You wanted me to destroy your strongest monster?"
"It's so I can gain the advantage once more," explained Shinji, "Remember when I said that 'Hama the Conquering Bow' would not be gone forever? Well, this is the moment where he will come back," He held up his 'Battlewasp - Ballista the Armageddon' Synchro Monster Card, "I activate 'Ballista the Armageddon's' third effect!"
With that said, Shinji Weber sent his card to the GY, causing three cards ('Battlewasp - Azusa the Ghost Bow', 'Battlewasp - Halberd the Charge', and 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow') to reappear in-between the index and middle fingers of his right hand.
"If this Synchro Summoned card in its owner's control is destroyed by an opponent's card: I can Special Summon 3 of my banished Level 11 or lower Insect monsters!" revealed Shinji, "All three of them are Synchro Monsters," He placed the cards onto his Duel Runner, "Resurrect, 'Azusa the Ghost Bow', 'Halberd the Charge', and 'Hama the Conquering Bow'!"
Reappearing on the field were 'Battlewasp - Azusa the Ghost Bow' (Level: 5/ATK: 2200/DEF: 1600, 'Battlewasp - Halberd the Charge' (Level: 6/ATK: 2500/DEF: 800), and 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow' (Level: 8/ATK: 2800/DEF: 2000). James R. was now facing three of Shinji's most reliable monsters, but, knowing the last one was the biggest threat of them, at least he had a way to stop a powerful monster effect from being activated.
"I activate 'Blackwing - Chinook the Snow Blast's' effect!" cried James R., holding up two cards ('Blackwing - Chinook the Snow Blast' and 'Blackwing - Silverwind the Ascendant'), "I can send this card from my hand or field to the GY, then target 1 face-up monster my opponent controls; I must…" He sent both cards to the GY, "…send 1 'Blackwing' Synchro Monster or 1 'Black-Winged Dragon'…" After sending both cards away, he looked back up, "…from my Extra Deck to the GY, and if I do, until the end of this turn, the targeted monster loses 700 ATK, also negate its effects. This is a Quick Effect if I control a DARK Synchro Monster!"
'Blackwing - Chinook the Snow Blast'—a brown-feathered bird-like monster with large wings and what appeared to be orange hair—appeared on the field before flapping its big wings, sending a blast of hot wind towards 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow', striking and weakening him monster as he fell to his hands and knees while getting burnt by the wind-like attack and then receiving severe frostbite (ATK: 2800 → 2100).
"Unfortunately, even though you weakened 'Hama the Conquering Bow', I have all that I need to deliver a crippling blow to you, James!" Shinji pointed out, before sliding Killer Wasp, holding his right hand out, and entering the Battle Phase, "Battle! I use 'Halberd the Charge' to attack 'Black-Winged Dragon'!"
'Battlewasp - Halberd the Charge' flew towards 'Black-Winged Dragon' with its axe-like weapon in-hand.
"I'm not gonna lose this soon!" cut in James R., as his face-up 'Black Feather Whirlwind' Spell Card started to activate—causing some of the changed feathers on 'Black-Winged Dragon's' wings to return to normal before forming a red barrier around the Signer Dragon as 'Battlewasp - Halberd the Charge' raised its weapon, "I activate the second effect of my Continuous Spell, 'Black Feather Whirlwind'! Once per turn, if a DARK monster I control would be destroyed by battle or card effect, I can remove 1 Black Feather Counter from my field instead!"
The axe-like weapon struck the barrier, which did nothing to hurt 'Black-Winged Dragon'.
"But you'll still take the damage!" countered Shinji.
As he was struck by some wind, James R., while also glowing red, lost some LP from the attack (LP: 3600 → 3200).
"As of now, I activate 'Halberd the Charge's' second effect!" continued Shinji, "When this card inflicts battle damage to my opponent: I can inflict 200 damage to my opponent for each 'Battlewasp' monster I control," As he spoke on, three images of cards ('Battlewasp - Azusa the Ghost Bow', 'Battlewasp - Halberd the Charge', and 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow') he controlled were shown around him in the background, "I control three 'Battlewasp' monsters, so you'll take 600 damage!"
"Remember 'Black-Feather's' first effect?" retorted James R., "As long as I control this monster, I can't take any effect damage!" He issued the command to 'Black-Winged Dragon', "Damage Drain!"
'Battlewasp - Halberd the Charge' fired a stinger towards Blackbird, but 'Black-Winged Dragon' got in the way and took the attack. 'Black-Winged Dragon' roared as more of its feathers changed color and its ATK went down (ATK: 2800 → 2100). Unfortunately, James R. knew that he had no way to protect his ace monster a second time.
"Go forth, 'Azusa the Ghost Bow'!" ordered Shinji, as 'Battlewasp - Azusa the Ghost Bow' aimed her bow, "Eliminate 'Black-Winged Dragon' for good!"
An arrow was fired, impaling 'Black-Winged Dragon' in the chest and causing the Signer Dragon to explode from destruction. The explosion's backlash caused Blackbird to stumble about as James R. lost more LP (LP: 3200 → 3100).
"The end is coming for you, James!" warned Shinji, holding out a card, "This card will reduce your LP to such low levels, that you will not survive the rest of my turn!" He revealed his card ('Battlewasp - Dart the Hunter'), "I activate the first effect of 'Battlewasp - Dart the Hunter'! When my 'Battlewasp' monster destroys a monster by battle that is owned by my opponent: I can discard this card; I must inflict damage to my opponent equal to that destroyed monster's original ATK!"
"What?!" freaked out James R., "'Black-Feather's' original ATK is 2800, which means-!"
"Right, you'll take 2800 damage," confirmed Shinji, before sending his card to the GY, "Go, 'Dart the Hunter'!"
Appearing onto the field was a bee-like monster with a black body and green stripes. Without wasting a second, 'Battlewasp - Dart the Hunter' flew straight towards James R. and collided with Blackbird, causing an explosion to cloud that part of the track as everyone in the stands watched anxiously. When the smoke cleared, James R. was wincing from the huge damage he just took (LP: 3100 → 300).
"James won't last much longer against Shinji," worried Carlie.
"Shinji is more than capable of overwhelming his opponents with effect damage," added Sherry.
"And there's more where that came from!" bellowed Shinji, "I activate 'Azusa the Ghost Bow's' first effect!" As he spoke away, 'Battlewasp - Azusa the Ghost Bow' raised her bow and opened fire, "When my opponent takes effect damage from another 'Battlewasp' monster: I can inflict damage to my opponent equal to the original ATK of that monster!"
The arrow struck Blackbird, pushing it further away from Killer Wasp as James R.'s LP dropped even lower (LP: 300 → 200).
"Sorry, James, but it looks like I'm going to be the winner," apologized Shinji, before giving the final command to his ace monster—who raised his bow with an arrow, "'Hama the Conquering Bow', attack the opposing player directly!" With that being said, 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow' fired the arrow, which looked certain to hit and finish James R. off, "With 200 LP left, there's no way you'll make it through this attack!"
At the last possible second, James R. took a card from his GY—just as the arrow struck the front of Blackbird and caused another explosion to ensue. In the stands…
"This duel is done!" exclaimed Zack.
Back on the track, Shinji closed his eyes and sighed, having wanted a better challenge than that. His sense of triumph was short-lived, however, as Blackbird burst out of the smokescreen. Not only that, James R.'s LP were actually untouched (LP: 200).
"What?!" panicked Shinji.
The audience was, likewise, surprised that James R. was still in the game. What surprised them even more, however, was that 'Blackwing - Boreastorm the Wicked Wind' was also on the field with 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow's' arrow sticking in his chest, when, seconds ago, the arrow had seemingly struck Blackbird.
"My monster's attack hit its direct mark," stammered Shinji, "How the hell did you-?"
"Well, Shinji, I've activated the monster effect of 'Blackwing - Calima the Haze'," confessed James R., "During my opponent's Battle Phase, if I control no monsters (Quick Effect): I can banish this card from the GY, then target 1 Synchro Monster in my GY; I must Special Summon that target, but banish it at the end of the Battle Phase," Focus went towards 'Blackwing - Boreastorm the Wicked Wind', as he shattered into shards of glass, "Unfortunately, my monster doesn't have enough DEF to survive the attack, so he is destroyed."
Shinji was stunned that James R. wound up surviving after all, but he (Shinji) closed his eyes and smiled to himself.
"I guess we're not done yet, after all," remarked Shinji, before closing off his turn, "I end my turn!" As both Duel Runners raced across the finish line again, there was more he wanted to say, "You know, if there's ever a time you need to bring out that new card of yours, it's now."
"I can't Synchro Summon my new monster since I control no more monsters thanks to Shinji bringing them down," James R. mumbled to himself. Dismayed that he was going to lose again, he slammed his right hand onto the side of Blackbird, "I can't believe I'm going to lose to Shinji again… I never even got to use that new card Zack gave me, all because I don't control any monsters—wait a moment… I don't need to control any monsters to…"
"Well, James?" pressed Shinji, "Are you going to take your turn? Or do you wanna call it quits?"
"Quit, me? Never!" refused James R., "Before our duel ends, I will show you the newest addition to my Deck!"
"James…"
"Ahem! Excuse me for borrowing a catchphrase, but the real fun is just getting started!" The brown-haired young man declared, before drawing a card, "It's my turn!"
Both players gained a final Speed Counter:
-James R.: 2 → 3
-Shinji: 2 → 3
Turn Four: James R. Hogan (LP: 200)
Deck: 45
Current Hand (2): "Blackwing - Sudri the Phantom Glimmer" and "Blackwing - Backlash"
Speed Counters: 3
"I want to know, James," interrupted Shinji, "How the heck will you get your new monster out if I took down all of the ones you controlled last turn? Without any monsters, you can't Synchro Summon it even if you wanted to."
"Who needs to control any monsters?" said James R. ominously, bringing worry to Shinji. At last, he revealed his intentions, "My new monster can also be Special Summoned from the Extra Deck by banishing both a Tuner Synchro Monster and a 'Black-Winged Dragon' from my face-up field and/or GY," Reappearing on the field around him were 'Black-Winged Dragon' and 'Blackwing - Boreastorm the Wicked Wind', "Here we are!"
"'Black-Winged Dragon' and 'Boreastorm the Wicked Wind'…!" thought Shinji.
"This is my new power," whispered James R., before raising his voice into a shout, "My 'Boreastorm the Wicked Wind' tunes 'Black-Winged Dragon'!"
Despite being a Level 6 Synchro Monster, 'Blackwing - Boreastorm the Wicked Wind' turned into two Synchro Rings. 'Black-Winged Dragon' then flew into the Synchro Rings and turned into eight orbs of light as a brand new Summon Chant was heard from James R..
"Darkened gales, manifest your noble pride on your wings!" chanted James R., before the eight orbs of light within the two Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon!" The body of the new Dragon Synchro Monster was shown to be largely similar to 'Black-Winged Dragon', only with orange-tinted black hair and feathers, "Be unleashed, 'Black-Winged Assault Dragon'!"
'Black-Winged Dragon's' upgraded form, 'Black-Winged Assault Dragon', let out a roar to signal its arrival (Level: 10/ATK: 3200/DEF: 2800). It was also then that the birthmarks of James R. (Dragon's Tail) and Carlie (Dragon's Foot) started glowing in response.
(elsewhere…)
Not only that, in different parts of Orb, the birthmarks of Matt (Dragon's Head), Michael (Dragon's Wings), Lisa (Dragon's Hand), and David (Dragon's Heart) also started glowing and responded to the appearance of 'Black-Winged Assault Dragon'.
(elsewhere…)
Back in Orb's Turbo Duel Stadium, 'Black-Winged Assault Dragon' let out another roar as it prepared to face the three 'Battlewasp' Synchro Monsters controlled by Shinji.
"'Black-Winged'…" began Carlie.
"…'Assault Dragon'?" added Sherry.
Zack just smiled. Back on the track, James R. was ready to gain the advantage once again.
"I activate the first effect of 'Black Feather Whirlwind'!" he announced, "Once per turn, if I Special Summon a DARK Synchro Monster from the Extra Deck (except during the Damage Step): I can target 1 of your 'Blackwing' monsters, or 'Black-Winged Dragon', that is banished or in my GY, with less ATK than that Special Summoned monster; I must Special Summon it!"
"I know what monster you want!" fretted Shinji.
"You do?" joked James R., "Then let's put that little theory to the test!" His GY started glowing, "Resurrect, 'Black-Winged Dragon'!"
In a burst of light, 'Black-Winged Dragon' reappeared within the sky (Level: 8/ATK: 2800/DEF: 1600). Soon, James R. had both his ace monsters flying above him (James R.), while Shinji remained very concerned about what the new monster ('Black-Winged Assault Dragon') was capable of doing. Luckily, he had other ideas to defend himself.
"But I'm not going to let you take 'Hama the Conquering Bow' or my other monsters down so easily," smirked Shinji, holding up a card ('Battlewasp - Xyston the Spike'), "I activate the first effect of 'Battlewasp - Xyston the Spike'! (Quick Effect): I can target 1 face-up 'Battlewasp' monster I control; I must…" He slotted the card into a Spell & Trap Zone on his Duel Runner, causing the spirit of a giant wasp with a large Ancient Greek-like spear as a stinger to appear on the field before merging with 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow', "…equip this card from my hand to that target as an Equip Spell that gives that card 500 ATK/DEF during my opponent's turn only!"
Now energized with power, 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow's' ATK grew until it was greater than that of 'Black-Winged Assault Dragon' (ATK: 2800 → 3300/DEF: 2000 → 2500).
"You're gonna regret using a monster effect, Shinji!" dismissed James R., "I activate 'Black-Winged Assault Dragon's' first effect!" As he spoke away, some of the feathers on 'Black-Winged Assault Dragon's' wings changed color, "Each time my opponent activates a monster effect, I must place 1 Black Feather Counter on this card when that effect resolves, and if I do, inflict 700 damage to my opponent!" He announced the effect name, "Damage Absorb!"
'Black-Winged Assault Dragon' obeyed, letting out a roar and firing some of the damaged feathers from its wing. Killer Wasp got hit by the feathers, causing Shinji to grunt a little bit as his LP got hit (LP: 1900 → 1200).
"'Xyston the Spike's' second effect!" recovered Shinji, before focus went towards 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow', "While this card is equipped to a monster, my opponent cannot target monsters I control for attacks, except the equipped monster!" He looked certain he would survive the turn and turn things around on his next turn, "This means even your 3200 ATK monster can't defeat any of my other monsters until you defeat 'Hama the Conquering Bow'!"
In the stands…
"With both Dragon monsters having less ATK than 'Hama the Conquering Bow', James will need to come up with an idea to overcome such an obstacle," noted Sherry, while Carlie nodded silently.
Back on the track…
"Is that so?" mumbled James R., before taking a card from his hand, "Well, lucky for me, I already have an idea!" He placed the card onto his Duel Runner, "I Summon 'Blackwing - Sudri the Phantom Glimmer'!"
Reappearing on the field was the black-feathered birdman with a long tail like a stinger and two large wings (Level: 4/ATK: 1400/DEF: 1400).
"Again?" blinked Shinji.
"Yup, again!" confirmed James R., before going over his monster's first effect and drawing a card, "When 'Sudri the Phantom Glimmer' is Normal Summoned: I can add 1 card that mentions 'Black-Winged Dragon' from my Deck to my hand, except 'Blackwing - Sudri the Phantom Glimmer'!" Upon seeing that his added card was the 'Blackwing - Twin Shadow' Trap Card, he made another move, "Next, I'll activate 'Sudri the Phantom Glimmer's' second effect! I can Tribute 1 monster; I must Special Summon 1 'Phantom Glimmer Token', then I take 700 damage!" Focus went towards, 'Blackwing - Sudri the Phantom Glimmer' as it turned itself into something known as a 'Phantom Glimmer Token' (Level: 2/ATK: 700/DEF: 700), "By Tributing 'Sudri the Phantom Glimmer' himself, I'll Special Summon a 'Phantom Glimmer Token'!"
"Normally you'd take 700 damage for doing that," recalled Shinji, "But…"
"That's right," confirmed James R., as 'Phantom Glimmer Token' glowed purple and unleashed an arrow bolt towards Blackbird, only for 'Black-Winged Dragon' to intercept and take the blow, "But due to 'Black-Winged Dragon's' first effect, I can instead place a Black Feather Counter on it instead!"
Some of 'Black-Winged Dragon's' feathers changed color, which meant it gained a Black Feather Counter, causing its second effect to lower its ATK (ATK: 2800 → 2100).
"I use this opportunity to activate my monster's third effect!" shouted James R., "Black Burst!"
'Black-Winged Dragon' obeyed, firing another black shockwave-like ripple across the stadium. As a result of being targeted, 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow' lost a small portion of its massive ATK from the shockwave (ATK: 3300 → 2600), while Shinji was hit hard by the effect and lost some more LP (LP: 1200 → 500). With no more Black Feather Counters, 'Black-Winged Dragon's' ATK also returned to normal (ATK: 2100 → 2800).
"But, James, even if your monsters are stronger, attacking won't work!" stated Shinji defiantly, "I still have 'Battlewasp - Nest' Set on my field, ready to negate your Battle Phase and…" An amused James R. listened to the rest of his (Shinji) statement, "…allow me to Special Summon a free 'Battlewasp' monster!"
And what was James R.'s response to that? He turned to face the readers and quoted Red Skelton's "mean widdle kid" line.
"He don't know me vewy well, do he?" snickered James R., before resuming focus on the duel and becoming serious, "I know that, Shinji… But I'm going to attack anyway!"
"It won't work, man!" argued Shinji.
"Take flight, 'Black-Winged Assault Dragon'!" ordered James R., ignoring Shinji as 'Black-Winged Assault Dragon' faced 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow', "Your target is 'Hama the Conquering Bow'!"
"Have you gone mad, James?!" Shinji proclaimed, displeased with his friend, "It looks like I'll have to teach you a big lesson for making boneheaded decisions!" He pressed a button on his Duel Runner, "I activate a Continuous Trap!" His Set card flipped face-up on the field in-front of Killer Wasp and revealed itself, "'Battlewasp - Nest'!" He then explained the effect in a stern way, "When my 'Battlewasp' monster is targeted for an attack: I must Special Summon 1 'Battlewasp' monster from my hand or Deck, and if I do, place 1 counter on this card, then end the Battle Phase."
In the stands, Zack shook his head over James R. making that move in attacking despite Shinji having the 'Battlewasp - Nest' Trap Card Set, but Carlie and Sherry were unsure, thinking that James R. declared an attack on purpose or something. Back on the field, 'Black-Winged Assault Dragon' and 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow' were prepared to strike each other when James R. smiled.
"Gotcha now," The brown-haired young man uttered.
Shinji overheard the comment and became worried. His (Shinji) worry turned into outright horror when James R. made the final play of the duel…
"Counter Trap, open!" boomed James R., as his Set card reappeared on the field in-front of Blackbird, flipped face-up, and revealed itself, "'Black Shadow Squall'! When a Spell/Trap Card is activated: I must remove 1 Black Feather Counter from my field; I must negate the activation, and if I do, destroy that card!"
"'Black-Feather Assault' has a Black Feather Counter!" breathed Shinji.
"That means I can remove it and negate/destroy 'Battlewasp - Nest'!" replied James R., just before 'Black-Winged Assault Dragon' roared and fired off its damaged feathers like darts, "Open fire!"
The feathers impaled the face-up 'Battlewasp - Nest' Trap Card, shorted it out, and then turned it into dust, leaving Shinji without his trump card. Back in the stands…
"Then it's done," frowned Sherry, "The duel is over; James has won."
Back on the track…
"That's that, I lost," sighed Shinji, admitting his defeat, "Go ahead, James! Do the honors… Finish me off!"
"Shinji…" whispered James R., before narrowing his eyes and resuming his Battle Phase, "'Black-Winged Assault Dragon', attack 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow'!" As he announced the attack name of his monster, 'Black-Winged Assault Dragon' charged something in its mouth and talons, "Noble Assault Stream!"
The devastating blast was unleashed, striking and overwhelming 'Battlewasp - Hama the Conquering Bow' before destroying him in a massive explosion. The explosion's backlash battered Killer Wasp as Shinji's remaining LP became depleted (LP: 500 → 0).
DUEL RESULTS: James R. Hogan wins!
Both Duel Runners soon came to a complete stop near the finish line as the holograms faded away. Shinji removed his helmet first and let out a pleased sigh, glad that his best friend finally won a duel against him. James R., meanwhile, removed his helmet, took his new 'Black-Winged Assault Dragon' Synchro Monster Card from the occupied Monster Zone, and looked long and hard at it. He (James R.) then heard some footsteps, which came from Shinji walking over.
"Congratulations, James," praised Shinji, "It took you many tries, but you've finally beaten me in a duel."
"Yeah, I did," agreed James R., "That means the score between us is finally settled," He looked down at his card ('Black-Winged Assault Dragon') one more time, "And I have Zack to thank for giving me this in the first place."
Back in the stands, Zack, overhearing his name being mentioned, leaned back in his seat and smiled with pride, while Sherry and Carlie both looked towards him.
"You gotta admit it, he's right," chuckled Zack, while Carlie and Sherry looked unamused, "Where would you guys all be without me to give you new cards to test out and keep?"
"Exactly where we are now," deadpanned Sherry, smiling smartly, "Only in a slightly worse place."
Almost immediately after hearing that statement, Zack collapsed in his seat before getting up while looking all sulky. Carlie and Sherry then shared a laugh, knowing that, once again, Zack could dish out the dry, deadpan comments towards people all he wanted, but he certainly couldn't take 'em from other people. All in all, it was a good start to the new day.
(elsewhere…)
Back in New York City, repairs were underway around lower Manhattan due to the destruction caused by the Dark Duel between Misty Tredwell and Megan Haw. The budget for repairs had been talked about and approved by the mayor and Rex not long ago, and it would take two weeks to finish repairing—maybe longer for certain buildings.
(elsewhere…)
Inside the NYPD headquarters, Paul, Maria, General Damas, and Jak were inside Sam's office having an online meeting with Rex—who had big news to share with the police department.
"Sir, you know where the Dark Signers are hiding?" demanded Sam.
"I do," The image of Rex nodded, "According to a conversation I had with Matt on the phone, they said, 'We'll be waiting for you at your stars of fate'."
"So, what did they mean by 'stars of fate'?" asked Jak.
"It seems…" The image of Rex said thoughtfully, "…there are five controlled towers scattered throughout the states of New York and Connecticut."
"Controlled towers?" repeated Paul.
"What are those supposed to be?" came from Maria.
"Those controllers were assigned codenames," The image of Rex continued, "They are Ccapac Apu, Ccarayhua, Aslla Piscu, Cusillu, and Chacu Challhua. In Quechuan, these mean 'Giant', 'Lizard', 'Hummingbird', 'Monkey', and 'Killer Whale'."
"Sir…" uttered Sam.
"I have reason to believe the towers were set up soon after Sergey Volkov's defeat," The image of Rex figured, "Which was when those geoglyphs vanished!"
"Governor Godwin, why are you telling us all of this?" quizzed General Damas.
"Because the controlled towers all need to be shut down soon," The image of Rex said seriously, "If left on for too long, I fear armageddon would be inevitable. You need to see the Signers and tell them this," He then showed a map of the state of New York and Connecticut, "These are the locations of the towers; make sure you don't forget them. Now good day, everyone."
Once Sam snapped a few pictures of the map with his camera, the meeting was then over as the image went static. Knowing how dire the situation was, General Damas turned to face Maria and Paul.
"Officer Truman, Officer Strienhart," he began, as Paul and Maria snapped to attention, "You two are to visit Orb in Hartford and tell the Signers what the governor told us."
"Yes, sir," obeyed Paul.
"Five controlled towers that can cause armageddon…" mused Jak, "I really don't want to know how bad it will be."
"We won't fail you, sirs," promised Maria, before she and her boss saluted their superiors, "We'll leave once we have a copy of the map."
General Damas smiled, having faith in the pair.
(elsewhere…)
Inside the mansion of Rex Godwin, the governor had finished his meeting with the NYPD and 'The All-Star Squad's' leaders. He (Rex) massaged his temples while sighing before being approached by Lazar.
"Sir, how exactly did you get the information in the first place?" pressed Lazar, genuinely curious about the whole thing, "Who are your sources?"
But there was no answer from Rex; the governor simply stood up from his seat and left the office without saying another word. Lazar blinked a couple of times, wondering what's gotten into his boss.
(outside…)
Outside Rex Godwin's mansion, all seemed very peaceful in spite of doomsday fast approaching for the whole world. Would Paul and Maria be able to warn the Signers of the true danger that the Dark Signers had set up? Stay tuned for the answer.
There we go, done at last! This is my gift to all of you; the chapter had been completed a couple of days ago, but I waited until today (which is a special day) to post it. As of now, this series is going on a month-long hiatus, and we won't resume work on it until at least early February. Until then, we'll be working more on the Definitive Version of the Battle City Finals for all of you to enjoy. Merry Christmas, everyone!