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
Title: Ego Dyed in Black
Opening up somewhere near the Canadian border in northern New York, Michael had finally arrived in the small town of Champlain to begin searching for Orga Sabnak and the control tower he currently protected.
"That damn Orga," thought Michael bitterly, "Ever since we met, he and his friends have done some absolutely despicable things towards my friends and I."
A flashback ensued.
FLASHBACK
While busy looking at the fuse box at the local animal shelter and deciding to turn it back on, Flashback Ashima didn't notice that a pair of shadowed figures were closing in on her from behind.
"First, he helped Vincent kidnap Ashima and force her to duel against Matt," narrated Michael
At the last second, Flashback Ashima finally realized she wasn't alone and turned around with a gasp, only for her to receive a pinch to the base of her neck from the first cloaked figure. This caused her to fall unconscious as a result of it, collapsing by the feet of both her attackers. One of the two cloaked figures removed his hood and revealed himself to be Vincent. The other cloaked figure kept his hood on, but smiled with satisfaction.
(new scene…)
At the Bradley International Airport, Flashback Carlie started hearing (silent) laughter aimed directly at her, causing her to stand up in surprise, causing her to turn around and see the source of the voice; Flashback Dark Signer 1, Flashback Dark Signer 2, and Flashback Dark Signer 3, and the way they were grinning meant they were the ones behind luring Flashback Carlie to the airport on her own.
"Then he, with help from Clotho, Shani, and even Vincent, kidnapped Carlie and brought her to Azrael," Michael went on , with Flashback Carlie getting into a dueling position, "Where he tortured her and had her turn against us for a short amount of time!"
Soon, Flashback Carlie felt something smashing the back of her head, causing her to fall onto the ground in a state of unconsciousness. The three Dark Signers all smiled over how easy the mission was.
(new scene…)
Inside the hidden laboratory in the Blue Cosmos school, the three Dark Signers reached over and lowered their hoods, revealing their identities as Orga Sabnak, Clotho Buer, and Shani Andras, three of Blue Cosmos's best duelists and Flashback Azrael's three favorite students. The way they were smiling signaled they were relieved to have made their headmaster happy.
(new scene…)
During the unfortunate battle between the three Bio-CPU boys and the three Astray girls, an attack by 'Gladiator Beast Andabata' struck the center of Flashback Juri's purple M1 Astray as it began sparking. The thought of dying terrified Flashback Juri.
"But the one thing I will never forgive Orga for!" recalled Michael, as Flashback Juri tearfully screamed (silently) as the damage to the Duel Runner caused an explosion and seemingly took her with it—just like it did with Flashback Mayura, "He and his two friends killed Juri, Mayura, and Asagi!"
After the duel ended, Flashback Michael had gotten onto a knee and held Flashback Juri's body close to him. His touch seemed to calm her down a little bit.
"Juri! Just hold on!" bellowed Flashback Michael in pure desperation, which was very uncharacteristic of someone like him, "I'm certain you and the others will live!"
"M-Mike, where are you?" coughed Flashback Juri weakly.
"Here! I'm right here!"
"How strange…" The intelligent, dark blue-haired young woman went on, in the same weak tone, "I can't see anything…"
"You have to hang on!" ranted Flashback Michael, managing to take off Flashback Juri's helmet and remove her broken glasses. He leaned his face closer to her own, "Just look at me!"
Despite being blind without her glasses, Flashback Juri, for some strange reason, saw that her vision was improving to allow her to finally see Flashback Michael's face without fail. Upon that happening, she managed to smile at him. Unfortunately, her time soon ran out after a lengthy conversation.
"I…love you, Mike…" Flashback Juri confessed at long last.
From there, her eyes closed as she died in Flashback Michael's arms. It was then the bodies of Flashback Juri, Flashback Mayura, and Flashback Asagi each turned into a stone-like color before breaking apart and leaving nothing behind except for the specks to be blown away by the wind, leaving Flashback Matt, Flashback Michael, Flashback James R., and Flashback Rin behind.
"When I find Orga, I will tear him apart for everything he and his band of dogs have done!" vowed Michael, as his flashback self punched at the ground, "I will find that Dark Signer even if I have to continue searching for him and it takes me the rest of my life to succeed!"
Having fallen onto his hands and knees, even the sometimes cold-hearted but always a jerk with a heart of gold Michael Atlas was genuinely crying over Flashback Juri's death, having remembered his first meeting with her and one of their best moments together since then—proving that, deep down, he had hidden feelings for Juri Wu Nien after getting to know her for a few months.
END FLASHBACK
The flashback ended, with Michael narrowing his eyes and gripping the right handle of his new Duel Runner, Justice. Fortunately, his endless search was not going to be needed… as he (Michael) discovered the control tower along the river, and if it was there, then Orga Sabnak was definitely nearby.
(elsewhere…)
Outside the control tower, Orga, riding a fully repaired Calamity, was patiently waiting for Michael to arrive so they could settle the score. But he was feeling impatient; he (Orga) wanted to settle things with Michael immediately—besides, the Signer was getting close, so why wait any longer? Revving Calamity up, Orga took off to find Michael.
(elsewhere…)
Meanwhile, Michael had turned onto another street while on his way to the control tower. Unfortunately, his attempt to reach it was interrupted by the sound of a familiar Duel Runner. Rather than become frustrated over it, Michael seemed rather pleased to hear it.
"You finally showed up, Dark Signer," thought Michael.
Orga, riding a fully repaired Calamity, was seen chasing after Justice. Michael simply made Justice speed up, make a u-turn, and, with both sides yelling at the top of their voice with nothing but hatred for the other, attempted to smash into Calamity, but, at literally the last second, both Duel Runners came to a sliding stop—with Michael and Orga glaring at the other with pure malice in their respective eyes as the latter made his helmet's faceplate retract whilst a nasty smile was shown on his face.
"We meet again, King," sneered Orga.
"Hmph! So we are," Michael sneered right back, making his faceplate retract and noticing Orga's new appearance, "You have definitely seen far better days."
"I was revived by Headmaster Azrael for a final shot at beating you Signers," revealed Orga, "But, more than anything, you!"
"Heh! That's laughable!" scoffed Michael, "You've never been able to defeat me ever since we met a few months ago!"
"This time, things will be different," Orga insisted, as, in the sky, a faded image of a gigantic 'Earthbound Immortal' monster was seen, "I have access to an 'Earthbound Immortal' monster, and, best of all, you're all alone—no friends to cheer you on or to help you out!"
"My friends don't need to be by my side for me to know that I have their support!" retorted Michael, "That's something you could never hope to understand, nor will you ever have any chance of defeating me!"
"Hmph! I think we've wasted enough time arguing over trivial matters," stated Orga, making the faceplate of his helmet reappear, "It's time for our fated duel to begin!" As he issued the final command and motioned his right arm about, the birthmark of the Hummingbird on the forearm started to glow all purple, "May my God have mercy on your soul!"
The walls of the geoglyph erupted from the ground all around the two duelists. In the sky and over the town of Champlain, the geoglyph of the Hummingbird had finished forming, signaling another Signer VS. Dark Signer battle.
(elsewhere…)
Across the remaining US states, the birthmarks of Matt (Dragon's Head), James R. (Dragon's Tail), Carlie (Dragon's Foot), Lisa (Dragon's Hand), and David (Dragon's Heart) all began glowing and reacting. Not only that, they even heard the roar of 'Red Dragon Archfiend', making it a clue as to who was dueling next.
"This is-!" began Matt.
"Another duel is starting," added James R..
"I think this one belongs to Mike," figured Carlie.
"This will be good," uttered Lisa.
"Atlas-sama…" finished David.
(elsewhere…)
Back in Champlain, Orga and Michael had arrived at the control tower the former was assigned to guard.
"Field Spell, 'High Speed World', set on!" Michael and Orga announced at once, before they pressed a button on the dashboard of their respective Duel Runners.
On the monitors of Justice and Calamity, a whole new Spell Card materialized and activated.
"Duel Mode, engaged," came a computerized voice aboard the two, respective Duel Runners, "Manual Mode activated."
From there, both Duel Runners became surrounded by a purple dome.
"We all know the rules; the first Duel Runner to make it to the first corner gets to choose to go first or second," noted Orga.
"That goes without saying," huffed Michael, "Enough chit-chat! Let's kick this Turbo Duel into overdrive!"
Both Duel Runners roared to life as Orga (LP: 4000) and Michael (LP: 4000) prepared to engage in quite possibly their final rematch ever.
"Turbo Duel!" Michael started to say.
"Acceleration!" yelled Orga.
Both Justice and Calamity took off down the road. As strong of Calamity was, Justice easily outspeed the bulky Duel Runner and reached the corner first.
"Tch!" grumbled Orga.
"Here I go, Dark Signer!" cried Michael, "In this duel, I will avenge everyone who died by your hands!" He drew a card, "It's my turn!"
Turn One: Michael Atlas (LP: 4000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Red Lotus King, Flame Crime", "Crimson Gaia", "Red Resonator", "Graceful Charity", "Rendering Tuning", and "Red Familiar"
Speed Counters: 0
His drawn card was an interesting one, and it caused him to have a flashback to his last major duel.
FLASHBACK
After his failed attempt to kill Flashback Michael, Flashback Familiar of Red Nova laid on the other side of the platform in a mortally wounded state.
"W-Why? Why couldn't I even touch him?" complained Flashback Familiar of Red Nova.
When the smoke cleared, his answer was shown… The flame aura-covered Flashback Michael was being protected by not only the Crimson Dragon's power, but also by 'Red Dragon Archfiend', 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend', and 'Red Supernova Dragon'. Flashback Familiar of Red Nova finally realized he (Flashback Familiar of Red Nova) never had any real chance of trying to take over the body of Michael Atlas nor trying to kill him (Flashback Michael) outright due to the almighty powers of the Crimson Dragon. No longer smiling, a very cold-looking Flashback Michael faced and calmly walked towards Flashback Familiar of Red Nova.
"Remember when I said I would subject you to the same fate as your master?" said Flashback Michael softly, "That means you will become my obedient servant, starting now."
"S-Servant?" repeated Flashback Familiar of Red Nova weakly.
From there, the Crimson Dragon intervened and roared before absorbing the remains of the panicking and flailing Flashback Familiar of Red Nova with its power, transforming the dying spirit into a new Monster Card, fittingly named 'Red Familiar', for Flashback Michael.
END FLASHBACK
The flashback ended, with Michael still looking at his new card ('Red Familiar').
"Heh! I guess now's as good as any to give you a test run," mocked Michael, adding the card into his hand and taking another one ('Crimson Gaia') to play. After saying a few words, he slotted it into his Duel Disk, "Continuous Spell, 'Crimson Gaia', activate!" The mentioned Spell Card materialized face-up on the field in-front of Justice, "During my Main Phase: I can add 1 'Red Dragon Archfiend' or 1 card that mentions it from my Deck or GY to my hand, except 'Crimson Gaia'."
When the explanation ended, a card ('Soul Resonator') ejected from the middle of Michael's Deck, which he took and looked at before placing it in his hand. Far from being done on improving his hand, he took another card ('Graceful Charity') and held it out.
"Next, I'll activate 'Graceful Charity'!" boomed Michael, as he was shown drawing three cards, "I must draw 3 cards," After placing the three cards into his hand, he took hold of two cards, "then discard 2 cards!"
Both cards ('Synchro Transmission' and 'Wandering King Wildwind') were placed in the GY. Currently, Michael's hand contained 'Red Lotus King, Flame Crime', 'Red Resonator', 'Rendering Tuning', 'Red Familiar', 'Soul Resonator', and 'Red Nova'. It was all perfect; perfect enough for him to get out his best monsters.
"Orga!" called Michael, getting Orga's attention, "Where things currently stand, I now will show you the true power of my very soul, 'Red Daemon's'! I hope you appreciate this honor!" He placed his next card ('Red Resonator') onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Disk, "I Summon 'Red Resonator'!"
Appearing onto the field was the familiar 'Resonator' monster with the flaming body (Level: 2/ATK: 600/DEF: 200).
"I activate my monster's first effect!" The voice of Michael went on, as, appearing on the field, a 'Resonator' monster with devil-like horns and wielding a tuning fork and mallet like the other members of the archetype (Level: 3/ATK: 500/DEF: 200). "When this card is Normal Summoned: I can Special Summon 1 Level 4 or lower monster from my hand!"
"'Soul Resonator'…" remembered Orga.
"I use this opportunity to activate my monster's first effect!" rambled Michael, before holding up a card ('Vision Resonator') taken from his Deck, "If this card is Normal or Special Summoned: I can add 1 Level 4 or lower Fiend monster from my Deck to my hand, except 'Soul Resonator'," He placed the card into his hand, "also I cannot Special Summon monsters from the Extra Deck for the rest of this turn, except DARK Synchro Monsters!"
"You quickly brought out two Tuner monsters," observed Orga, "It's a real shame you don't have 'Red Daemon's' out, since it would mean you can perform a double tuning."
"Shut up!" ordered Michael, before holding another card ('Red Lotus King, Flame Crime') up from his hand and activating its first effect, "During the Main Phase, if I control a Fiend Tuner, or my opponent controls a Special Summoned monster (Quick Effect): I can Special Summon this card from my hand!" He placed the card onto his Duel Disk with the swing of his right arm, "Appear now, 'Red Lotus King, Flame Crime'!"
Appearing on the field was a demonic-looking creature with various parts of his body on fire (Level: 3/ATK: 1700/DEF: 300).
"'Red Lotus King, Flame Crime'?" remarked Orga, having never seen that monster before.
"I activate 'Flame Crime's' second effect!" cut in Orga, as focus went towards 'Red Lotus King, Flame Crime' as it appeared to get ready to attack, "If this card is Special Summoned: I can inflict 400 damage to my opponent for each FIRE monster I control with different names!" He looked extremely pissed off as he continued speaking, "I control three FIRE monsters with different names, so you'll receive 1200 damage!"
"Ngh…" grimaced Orga.
"Take this!" The voice of Michael bellowed hatefully, as 'Red Lotus King, Flame Crime' opened its mouth and let loose a mighty blast of fire, "Flame Stream!"
The attack collided with Calamity, causing Orga to rock about and receive major damage from the effect (LP: 4000 → 2800). Despite getting hit hard already, Orga, as the attack ended, appeared to smile.
"You're being serious," chuckled Orga, "King, by attacking me like this, it means you're serious about wanting to kill me in this duel!"
"I'm being more serious than anyone would know," growled Michael, as 'Red Lotus King, Flame Crime' and 'Soul Resonator' took off for the sky, "Level 3 'Soul Resonator' tunes Level 3 'Flame Crime'!"
'Soul Resonator', with the bang of its tuning fork and mallet, turned into three Synchro Rings, which 'Red Lotus King, Flame Crime' soared into before turning into three orbs of light as a Summon Chant was heard throughout.
"Crimson Dragon, light up the path that calls upon the flaming demon!" chanted Michael, as the symbols 3 + 3 = 6 were shown briefly just before the three orbs of light turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Come forth, 'Red Rising Dragon'!"
Appearing from the beam of light and soon flying above the platform, was the smaller, weaker—but still powerful—flaming version of 'Red Dragon Archfiend' (Level: 6/ATK: 2100/DEF: 1600).
"With 'Flame Crime' gone, I'll activate its third effect!" As Michael spoke, took a card from his Deck and sent it to the GY, "If this card is sent to the GY as Synchro Material: I can send 1 Normal Trap from my Deck to the GY."
"You're damn crazy!" argued Orga, "You just got rid of a possibly powerful Trap!"
"I might have done it for a good reason," responded Michael knowingly, "But that's not important! I activate 'Red Rising Dragon's' first effect! When this card is Synchro Summoned: I can…" While speaking on, reappearing on the field was 'Soul Resonator' (Level: 3/ATK: 500/DEF: 200), "…target 1 'Resonator' monster in my GY; I must Special Summon it," He was far from being done, "I cannot Special Summon monsters from the Extra Deck the turn I activate this effect, except DARK Dragon Synchro Monsters."
"I already know what's gonna happen next," interrupted Orga, "You'll tune Level 2 'Red Resonator' with Level 6 'Red Rising Dragon' and bring out 'Red Daemon's'!" He smiled smugly, "Honestly, you're so predictable!"
The way Michael was also smiling signaled that Orga clearly didn't know. At last, he issued the command.
"Level 2 'Red Resonator' tunes Level 6 'Red Rising Dragon'!" roared Michael.
'Red Resonator' turned itself into two Synchro Rings, which 'Red Rising Dragon flewed into before becoming six orbs of light as a familiar Summon Chant was heard throughout.
"The King brings a feast of blood! Crimson demonic dragon! Leave your mark on the battlefield!" chanted Michael, as the symbols 6 + 2 = 8 were shown briefly before the six orbs of light within the duo of Synchro Rings erupted into a beam of red light, "Synchro Summon! Appear now, 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend'!"
Emerging from the beam of red light, as the Synchro Summon sequence ended, was 'Red Dragon Archfiend surrounded by a flaming aura (Level: 8/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500).
"What?! 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend'?" gasped Orga, having never seen this monster before, "But I thought-?"
"This is a whole new form for 'Red Daemon's'," corrected Michael, "I will now also reveal why I sent 'Red Reign' to my GY; it's to add it back into my hand. I activate my Trap Card's second effect!" As he explained away, the 'Red Reign' Trap Card emerged from his GY, which he took and placed into his shrinking hand, "If a DARK Dragon Synchro Monster is Synchro Summoned to my field while this card is in my GY: I can add this card to my hand," Then, to finish preparing for the rise of the King, he readied one more card ('Red Nova') in his right hand before placing it onto his Duel Disk, "If a Level 8 or higher Dragon Synchro Monster is on the field, I can Special Summon this card (from my hand). Come, 'Red Nova'!"
Appearing on the field was a small, red-colored Fairy monster with two large wings (Level: 1/ATK: 0/DEF: 0).
"Listen to the roar of my soul!" exclaimed Michael, as fire appeared in his eyes, "Can you feel it? My life's energy! Bear witness, this is my power! The cry of a King who searches for a challenge without end!" Finally, a fiery aura formed all around his body and Justice, "Burning Soul!" As 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' flew into the sky, 'Soul Resonator' and 'Red Nova' turned themselves into fiery Synchro Rings (three for 'Soul Resonator' and one for 'Red Nova'), "My Level 3 'Soul Resonator' and Level 1 'Red Nova' double tunes Level 8 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend'!"
Within seconds, 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' found itself trapped inside a sphere of fire (obviously created by the fiery Synchro Rings left behind by both 'Soul Resonator' and 'Red Nova') while absorbing the outer flames and increasing its power as another Summon Chant followed.
"The King and The Devil, here and now, shall become as one. A Raging Spirit! Lift up the very cries of Creation itself!" chanted Michael, as the symbols 8 + 3 + 1 = 12 were shown briefly just before the sphere of fire finally exploded, "Synchro Summon! Come forth, 'Red Nova Dragon'!"
Emerging from the sphere of fire was 'Red Dragon Archfiend's' bigger, even more powerful alternate form (Level: 12/ATK: 3500/DEF: 3000).
"There it is, 'Red Nova Dragon'," grunted Orga, displeased.
"I activate 'Red Nova's' second effect!" continued Michael, "If this card is sent to the GY for a Synchro Summon that uses 2 or more Tuner monsters as material: I can Special Summon 1 FIRE Fiend monster from my Deck in Defense Position," He held up a card ('Red Giant') taken from his Deck, "I Special Summon 'Red Giant'!"
Appearing on the field was a red/flame-covered Giant monster (Level: 5/ATK: 600/DEF: 1000). Focus then went towards 'Red Nova Dragon' as its eyes glowed red for a moment, which was a reflection seen in Michael's eyes, too.
"Next, the first effect of 'Scar-Red Nova'!" raged Michael, "It gains 500 ATK for each Tuner in my GY!" Once again focus went towards 'Red Nova Dragon' as it flew higher into the sky and roared as it got supercharged with power (ATK: 3500 → 5000), "With three Tuners in my GY, my very soul gains 1500 ATK!" Despite that, he was not finished as he placed another card ('Vision Resonator') onto his Duel Disk, lighting up a few seconds later, "If a Level 5 or higher DARK monster is on the field, I can Special Summon this card (from my hand). I Special Summon the Tuner monster, 'Vision Resonator'!"
Appearing on the field was a demonic-looking 'Resonator' monster (Level: 2/ATK: 400/DEF: 400). From there, focus went towards 'Red Giant', before shifting towards 'Vision Resonator'.
"Level 2 'Vision Resonator' tunes Level 5 'Red Giant'!" The voice of Michael proclaimed, as the above scenario played out.
'Vision Resonator' banged both its tuning fork and mallet together, turning itself into two Synchro Rings, which hovered over, lowered, and overwhelmed 'Red Giant' before turning it into five orbs of light as a Summon Chant ensued.
"The beating pulse of the new ruler, emerge from within the chaos!" chanted Michael, as the symbols 5 + 2 = 7 were shown briefly before the five orbs of light within the two Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, which slammed onto Justice on the road, "Synchro Summon! With pride, 'Chaos King Archfiend'!"
Appearing onto the field before posing for battle, as the Synchro Summon sequence ended, was the formal-looking 'Archfiend' monster with a flaming wing for the forearms (Level: 7/ATK: 2600/DEF: 2600).
"This gives me two Synchro Monsters to use against you!" gloated Michael, while 'Red Nova Dragon' grew stronger again (ATK: 5000 → 5500), "And with a fourth Tuner monster now in my GY, 'Scar-Red Nova's' ATK rises to 5500!" Once again, he wasn't done with his turn, and decided to show off more of what 'Vision Resonator' could do—which was adding powerful cards from his Deck into his hand, "I activate 'Vision Resonator's' second effect! If this card is sent to the GY: I can add 1 Spell/Trap that mentions 'Red Dragon Archfiend' from my Deck to my hand!"
Upon looking at two of his added Trap Cards ('Red Reign' and 'Fiendish Golem') Michael knew that whatever Orga did next would amount to nothing.
"Well, Dark Signer, are you sure you want to battle my new power?" taunted Michael, "With 'Scar-Red Nova' having 5500 ATK, having the second effect of being unable to be destroyed by card effects, and the third effect of banishing itself to negate your attack, there is nothing you can do to win!"
"Hmhmhm… Funny, I was actually going to tell you the same thing," retorted Orga, chuckling humorlessly.
"Huh?"
"Even with 5500 ATK and powerful effects, I'm not afraid of you nor 'Red Nova Dragon' because it is of no threat to me," The mustard yellow-haired young man was saying, "After all, this duel wouldn't be any fun if I didn't get a chance to take it down, 'Former King'!"
Being called the 'Former King' greatly angered Michael; so Orga believed that 'Red Nova Dragon' was no threat? He would regret saying those words and so much more.
"What utter bull$*#^!" snarled Michael, "If that's how you feel about my power, I will 'teach' you to fear me!" He slotted the two cards into his Duel Disk, causing two face-down cards to appear on the field around Justice, "I Set two cards and end my turn!" The face-down cards faded away for later use, and he entered his thoughts, "This Dark Signer's Deck runs not a single Synchro Monster, but the annoying thing is 'Gladiator Beast' Fusion Monsters can 'tag out' after they attack or have been attacked," A cold, vicious smile formed on his face, "Just you try fighting me! Whatever so-called new powers and strategies you claim to have, it won't stop me from crushing you with my new power!" From there, he spoke aloud, "Now, Orga! It's your turn! If you think you can do better, then show me!"
"I thought you'd never ask," teased Orga, drawing a card, "It's my turn!"
With it being the second turn of the duel, both players gained a Speed Counter:
-Michael: 0 → 1
-Orga: 0 → 1
Turn Two: Orga Sabnak (LP: 2800)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Gladiator Beast Murmillo", "Test Fusion", "Gladiator Beast Laquari", "Test Chameleon"(!), "Gladiator Beast Secutor", and "Test Jaguar"(!)
Speed Counters: 1
Orga's drawn card was a Monster Card called 'Test Jaguar'. Seeing what else was in his hand, he was going to give the Signer a painful lesson of never underestimating the power of the Dark Signers.
"'Former King', my Deck has a new power," beamed Orga, "A power that even you will not see coming!"
"What nonsense are you spewing now?!" snapped Michael.
"In that case, let me show you," Orga offered, readying his drawn card ('Test Jaguar'), "This is the first effect of 'Test Jaguar'! I can target 1 Set Spell/Trap my opponent controls; I must banish that target, and if I do, Special Summon this card from my hand. My opponent cannot activate the targeted card in response to this effect's activation."
Michael flinched, "What?!"
"Oh yeah! One of your two powerful Trap Cards is going bye-bye!" confirmed Orga, just as one of Michael's Set cards reappeared on the field behind Justice, "I pick the card on the right!"
The card flipped face-up and revealed itself, shown to be the 'Red Reign' Trap Card before fading away into oblivion.
"That was 'Red Reign'!" laughed Orga, "A card you worked hard to get back, but now it's gone!"
"Grr… Lucky guess," fumed Michael.
"Appear now, 'Test Jaguar'!" declared Orga, placing his card onto his Duel Runner.
Appearing on the field was an armored jaguar monster (Level: 3/ATK: 0/DEF: 0).
"Spoiler alert, this is a Tuner monster!" revealed Orga cockily, causing Michael to gasp, "When I was resurrected from the dead, Headmaster Azrael supplied me with 'Test Jaguar' and another new card—a Dark Synchro Monster," He then placed one more card onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Runner, "I Summon 'Gladiator Beast Secutor'!"
Appearing onto the field was the lizard-like warrior in blue armor (Level: 4/ATK: 400/DEF: 300).
"Level 3 'Test Jaguar' dark tunes Level 4 'Gladiator Beast Secutor'!" proclaimed Orga.
On cue, 'Test Jaguar' managed to turn itself into three balls of darkness. They were then absorbed into 'Gladiator Beast Secutor', before exploding into a total of seven balls of darkness, which then began spinning together in a circle above as a sinister-sounding Summon Chant was heard.
"At the edge of darkness, the emperor begins a prelude to ultimate despair that will transcend the cycle of karma itself!" chanted Orga, as the symbols 4 + 3 = 7 were shown briefly just before a massive beam of darkness exploded from within the seven dark stars, "Dark Synchro! Appear now, 'Darkness Gladiator Beast'!"
When the beam of darkness died down, there, now on the field, was a large gladiatorial jaguar-like monster resting upon a small throne (Level: 7/ATK: 0/DEF: 0).
"'Darkness Gladiator Beast'," Michael told himself, "Despite having no ATK or DEF for a Level 7 Synchro Monster, it must have devastating effects to make up for that."
"'Red Nova Dragon' has 5500 ATK, while 'Darkness Gladiator Beast' has 0 ATK… My monster clearly can't win against something like that," joked Orga, "But can it?" He then drew a card, "But before I do, I'll activate 'Test Jaguar's' second effect!" The card was shown to be a Spell Card called 'Gladiator Beast's Battle Archfiend Shield', "If this card is sent to the GY as material for the Synchro Summon of 'Darkness Gladiator Beast': I can…" It was then the card was placed into his hand, "…add 1 'Gladiator Beast' card from my Deck to my hand! Now it's time for 'Scar-Red Nova' to be brought back to Earth!"
"Bring it back to Earth? How are you going to do that?" pressed Michael indignantly.
"I activate 'Darkness Gladiator Beast's' second effect!" cut in Orga, as focus went towards 'Darkness Gladiator Beast' as he slowly stood up from his throne and looked up at 'Red Nova Dragon', "If this card is Synchro Summoned: I must negate the effects of all face-up monsters my opponent controls. My opponent cannot activate cards or effects in response to this effect's activation."
"Impossible!" panicked Michael.
In response, 'Darkness Gladiator Beast' opened his mouth as the effect name was revealed by Orga.
"Judgment Verso!" The voice of Orga ordered.
A powerful breath of darkness was unleashed, striking 'Red Nova Dragon' and causing it to roar in pain as it felt all of its power being sucked away. When Judgment Verso ended, Michael's ace monster weakly lowered itself until it was just slightly above Justice with its 5500 ATK dropping back to its default amount (ATK: 5500 → 3500).
"Without its effects, 'Scar-Red Nova' can no longer escape destruction!" cackled Orga, "Its ATK has also returned to 3500!" Focus went towards 'Red Nova Dragon' and Michael, "It's now just a massive beatstick!"
"'Red Nova Dragon'…" worried Michael.
"There's more!" The voice of Orga cut in, as Michael scowled and listened. He was busy revealing more and more secrets about 'Darkness Gladiator Beast', "The third effect of 'Darkness Gladiator Beast'! While I control another 'Gladiator Beast' monster, this card is unaffected by my opponent's card effects, also it cannot be targeted for an attack! But the fourth effect is my favorite of them all… I take no battle damage from battles involving 'Gladiator Beast' monsters!" With the explanation time over, he took a card ('Test Fusion') from his hand and readied it for a few seconds before slotting it into his Duel Runner, "Now, in order for me to get another 'Gladiator Beast' monster onto my field, I'll activate the Spell Card, 'Test Fusion'!"
The mentioned Spell Card materialized face-up on the field in-front of Calamity and focus went squarely towards it.
"I must Special Summon 1 'Gladiator Beast' Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck that lists exactly 2 monsters as Fusion Material, by sending any 2 monsters from my hand to the GY, ignoring its Summoning conditions," The voice of Orga explained, just before 'Gladiator Beast Murmillo' and 'Gladiator Beast Laquari' appeared on the field, "I send 'Murmillo' and 'Laquari' to the GY so I can fuse them together!"
Both 'Gladiator Beast Murmillo' and 'Gladiator Beast Laquari', with the artwork of the 'Polymerization' Spell Card looming in the background, started fusing together as a Summon Chant from Orga was heard.
"Behind every great warrior is an even greater trainer to keep them mighty and strong!" chanted Orga, as he was then shown smiling a slasher smile, "Contact Fusion! Come forth, 'Gladiator Beast Tamer Editor'!"
Appearing on the field, once the Fusion Summon sequence had finished, was the panther-like warrior in red armor wielding a staff. The new 'Gladiator Beast' monster pointed his staff out with a loud cry (Level: 8/ATK: 2400/DEF: 3000).
"The first effect of 'Tamer Editor' activates!" revealed Orga, "Once per turn: I can choose 1 'Gladiator Beast' Fusion Monster in any player's Extra Deck and Special Summon it to its controller's field in Attack Position, ignoring its Summoning conditions," He (Orga) held up a card taken from his Extra Deck but did not reveal what it was just yet, "This monster will do for a start…" It ('Gladiator Beast Andabata') was turned over and revealed, "I Special Summon 'Gladiator Beast Andabata'!"
Appearing onto the field was the rather powerful lizard armed with a sword and shield, and decked out in armor (Level: 8/ATK: 1000/DEF: 2800).
"Damn that Dark Signer!" thought Michael, "As long as Orga controls 'Darkness Gladiator Beast' and at least one other 'Gladiator Beast' monster, he's formed a nearly untouchable wall and will have an ample amount of time to gather monsters to Tribute for the Summon of the 'Earthbound Immortal' monster."
"I'll add more to my growing army!" bragged Orga, before motioning his right hand out, "I activate the first effect of 'Andabata'! If this card is Special Summoned: I can Special Summon 1 'Gladiator Beast' Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck, except 'Gladiator Beast Andabata', ignoring its Summoning conditions, but if it battles, shuffle it into the Extra Deck at the end of the Damage Step!"
"A third Fusion Monster!" complained Michael.
"Exactly, and I know the perfect one to use!" agreed Orga, "The same one that helped me cut down Four Eyes!" He then placed his card ('Gladiator Beast Domitianus') onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Runner, "Here it is!" Calamity lit up soon after, "I Special Summon 'Gladiator Beast Domitianus' in Attack Position!"
Appearing on the field was the humanoid sea creature-like 'Gladiator Beast' monster wearing armor and wielding a trident for a weapon (Level: 10/ATK: 3500/DEF: 1000).
(elsewhere…)
Back in the small town outside New York City, James R., Zack, Ms. Simmons, and Mr. Kisaka all roamed the destruction from the duel between Matt and Clotho.
"What a mess!" commented Zack, "'Ccapac Apu' really did a number to the town."
"Will the budget Godwin proposed with the president be able to cover the repairs?" wondered James R..
"We'd better hope so."
The sound of a Duel Runner was heard, and, as expected, Matt and Ashima drove up on Freedom. The rest of the small group was deeply relieved they were fine.
"There you two are; we were wondering where you got to for the last ten/fifteen minutes," noted Zack.
"Everything's alright, everyone," promised Ashima, "Matt just needed some time to clear his head from the intense duel."
"Yeah, I'm fine now," added Matt.
There was a brief silence from the whole party, which was broken when James R. spoke up.
"So…what do we do now?" he pressed.
"I suggest we head for Albany to help Lisa and Dave against Azrael," suggested Mr. Kisaka, "Michael and Carlie are much further away than the both of them."
"Mm," nodded Ms. Simmons, "I hope they will be alright."
"Same here, Erica… Same here," whispered Ashima.
Once everyone else was aboard their Duel Runners, they took off for Albany, also hoping that Lisa, David, Sherry, and Shinji would be okay against Muruta Azrael.
(elsewhere…)
Back in Champlain, Justice and Calamity roared into another corner of the geoglyph as the Turbo Duel intensified.
"The first effect of 'Domitianus'!" ranted Orga, "Once per turn, when my opponent activates a monster effect (Quick Effect): I can negate the activation, and if I do, destroy it."
"Your strongest monster is of no threat to me!" interrupted Michael.
Orga eased up, "Huh?"
"You should remember this card really well," continued Michael, just as he made his remaining Set card reappear on the field in-front of Justice, "I activate a Trap, 'Fiendish Golem'!" The card flipped face-up and revealed itself, causing a large, blue gargoyle to emerge from it and face 'Gladiator Beast Domitianus', "I must target 1 monster on the field with 2000 or more ATK; I must banish it (until the End Phase of the next turn), then if I activated this card while I controlled 'Red Dragon Archfiend' or a Synchro Monster that mentions it," He took a card from his Deck and slotted it into his Duel Disk, "I can Set 1 'Fiendish Chain' directly from my Deck or GY."
The gargoyle grappled with 'Gladiator Beast Domitianus' and crushed the enemy monster so hard that it faded away into oblivion (for now). Orga, despite losing quite possibly his best attacking monster outside of his 'Earthbound Immortal' monster, didn't seem upset over what happened.
"Easy come, easy go," remarked Orga, before making another move, "I use this moment to activate 'Gladiator Beast Tamer Editor's' second effect!" As he (Orga) explained the effect, focus went towards the monsters on Michael's field, "Once per turn, if 2 or more 'Gladiator Beast' monsters are on the field: The controller of those monsters can destroy 1 monster on the field, and if they do," He was going to enjoy making his enemy suffer, "inflict damage to its controller equal to the destroyed monster's ATK!"
'Gladiator Beast Tamer Editor' raised his staff and whipped it as if it were a whip, sending a green energy wave towards 'Red Nova Dragon'.
"'Former King', since 'Scar-Red Nova' now lacks its second effect of preventing it from being destroyed by card effects, it's going to be my pick for destruction!" boasted Orga.
"I beg to differ," rebutted Michael harshly.
"Eh?"
"I activate the second effect of 'Soul Resonator'!" The lime green-haired young man announced, as, from within the abyss (GY), the 'Soul Resonator' Tuner Monster Card emerged before fading away into oblivion and causing a barrier to form around 'Red Nova Dragon', "If a card(s) I control would be destroyed by card effect, while I control 'Red Dragon Archfiend' or a Synchro Monster that mentions it, I can banish this card from my GY instead!"
The energy wave struck the barrier surrounding Michael's monster, and while it did destroy the barrier, 'Red Nova Dragon' survived the effort to destroy it.
"Tch! How annoying!" grunted Orga, as focus went to 'Red Nova Dragon' and Michael, "But don't forget that you can't protect 'Scar-Red Nova' forever! Sooner or later, it will be destroyed!" He then held up a card ('Gladiator Beast's Battle Archfiend Shield') taken from his hand, "I activate the Equip Spell, 'Gladiator Beast's Battle Archfiend Shield'!" The card was slotted into a Spell & Trap Zone on his Duel Runner, "I equip this card to 'Andabata'!"
A demonic-looking shield appeared in the hands of 'Gladiator Beast Andabata'.
"I must equip only to a 'Gladiator Beast' monster," stated Orga, before going over the first effect, "If the equipped monster would be destroyed, I must destroy this card instead!"
"You bastard… You intend to tag out your 'Gladiator Beast' Fusion Monster in favor of more 'Gladiator Beast' monsters," growled Michael, making a quick guess.
His theory proved correct when the Battle Phase commenced.
"Go forth, 'Gladiator Beast Andabata'!" commanded Orga, as 'Gladiator Beast Andabata' pointing its sword forth and firing off some laser blasts, "Attack 'Red Nova Dragon'!"
The attack struck 'Red Nova Dragon' multiple times, but since it was still much stronger, the blasts had no effect—rather, it only served to make the Cosmic Synchro Monster enraged.
"Strike back, 'Scar-Red Nova'!" shouted Michael.
'Red Nova Dragon' obeyed, opening its mouth and sending out a massive blast of fire towards 'Gladiator Beast Andabata'. The attack struck the shield the 'Gladiator Beast' monster was carrying, destroying it and sparing Orga's monster from destruction.
"Thanks to the fourth effect of 'Darkness Gladiator Beast', I take no battle damage from attacks involving 'Gladiator Beast' monsters!" beamed Orga, undamaged (LP: 2800), "And with my attack a failure, I get to activate 'Andabata's' third effect!" While explaining away, 'Gladiator Beast Andabata' found itself glowing before splitting apart into two new monsters, "At the end of the Battle Phase, if this card battled: I can return it to the Extra Deck; I must Special Summon 2 "Gladiator Beast" monsters from my Deck!"
The two 'Gladiator Beast' monsters that appeared on the field were as followed; the first one was a green-feathered Winged Beast monster in armor (Level: 4/ATK: 1500/DEF: 800), and the second one was a centaur armed with a bow and arrow (Level: 3/ATK: 700/DEF: 1000).
"'Bestiari' and 'Sagittarii'…" remembered Michael.
"Great memory on your part, King!" praised Orga sarcastically, taking another card from his hand, "I use this moment to activate 'Sagittarii's' first effect!" He sent the card ('Test Chameleon') to the GY before focus went towards his Deck, "If this card is Special Summoned by the effect of a 'Gladiator Beast' monster: I can…" He drew two more cards, "…discard 1 'Gladiator Beast' card; I must draw 2 cards."
The two cards drawn were 'Earthbound Immortal Aslla piscu' (Effect Monster Card) and 'Earthbound Release' (Trap Card). Both cards made Orga smile a slasher smile once again, since they were just what he needed.
"All I need to do is soften the 'Former King' up some more," Orga thought to himself, "Then I can use these cards to deliver the killing blow!" He spoke aloud again, "As I discarded 'Test Chameleon', I'll activate its first effect!" Without skipping a beat, he slotted another card into a Spell & Trap Zone on his Duel Runner, causing a Set card to appear on the field in-front of Calamity before fading away for later use, "If this card is sent from the hand to the GY by the effect of a 'Gladiator Beast' card: I can Set 1 'Gladiator Beast' Spell/Trap directly from my Deck," There was still more for him to do, "Next, I'll activate 'Bestiari's' first effect! If this card is Special Summoned by the effect of a 'Gladiator Beast' monster: I must target 1 Spell/Trap on the field; I must destroy that target!"
"He's going to destroy my Set 'Fiendish Chain'!" thought Michael, with gritted teeth.
From there, 'Gladiator Beast Bestiari' summoned a great gust of wind with his wings, causing Michael's Set card ('Fiendish Chain') to reappear on the field behind Justice before being blown away and shattering into shards of glass.
"Now it's time for another Contact Fusion! I shuffle my two 'Gladiator Beast' monsters, 'Bestiari' and 'Sagittarii', into the Deck!" announced Orga.
On cue, both 'Gladiator Beast Bestiari' and 'Gladiator Beast Sagittarii', with the artwork of the 'Polymerization' Spell Card looming in the background, started fusing together as a Summon Chant from Orga was heard.
"Fighting bird of prey that lived in ancient times! Merge with the souls of gladiators and become a warrior of legend!" chanted Orga, before managing to bring both hands together, "Contact Fusion! Come, 'Gladiator Beast Gyzarus'!"
Appearing onto the field as the Fusion Summon sequence ended, was the more powerful-looking version of 'Gladiator Beast Bestiari' (Level: 6/ATK: 2400/DEF: 1500).
"'Gladiator Beast Gyzarus'!" thought Michael, "That one is going to destroy my monsters without fail! Dammit!"
"'Gyzarus's' first effect activates!" proclaimed Orga, "When this card is Special Summoned: I can target up to 2 cards on the field; I must destroy those targets!" He eyed 'Red Nova Dragon' and 'Chaos King Archfiend', "Those two monsters of yours are barely a threat… Once they're gone, you'll have no chance of winning!" From there, he made his move, "Go forth, 'Gyzarus'! Take down both 'Red Nova Dragon' and 'Chaos King Archfiend'!"
'Gladiator Beast Gyzarus' obeyed, using his wings to let loose a powerful blast of wind to take down Michael's monsters. Sure enough, 'Red Nova Dragon' and 'Chaos King Archfiend' were overwhelmed and exploded from destruction.
"'Scar-Red Nova'… 'Chaos King Archfiend'…" murmured Michael, narrowing his eyes, "However…"
"Ha ha! I did it!" cheered Orga, "I destroyed the strongest monster in your whole Deck! Without 'Scar-Red Nova', you won't last much longer in this duel! Victory is as good as mine!" He then eased up upon hearing a familiar roar, "Huh? What was that?"
When the smoke finally cleared away, there, in the sky, was 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' (Level: 8/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500).
"What the hell?! 'Scarred Daemon' is back?" cried Orga.
"The third effect of 'Crimson Gaia'," revealed Michael, "If a monster(s) on the field is destroyed by battle or card effect: I can Special Summon 1 'Red Dragon Archfiend' from my GY. So when you destroyed 'Red Nova Dragon', I brought back 'Scarred Daemon'—who's first effect names it 'Red Dragon Archfiend' while on the field and in the GY."
"Grr… By destroying your strongest monster, I ended up letting you bring your newest ace monster back from the dead," grimaced Orga, before recovering, "But I'm not at all worried! As you can tell, I hold the advantage thanks to the power of 'Darkness Gladiator Beast' backing me up!"
"I hate to admit it, but he does have the overwhelming advantage at this time and even destroyed 'Red Nova Dragon'," thought Michael, before watching the monitor of Justice, which showed footage of Orga's field, "He almost certainly has 'Gladiator Beast's Medallion' face-down and waiting to be sprung," He narrowed his eyes and spoke aloud, "But despite what I'm up against, it will just make me need to fight all the more harder for my friends, all of the people who died, and for my very soul!"
On cue, the birthmark of the Dragon's Wings started glowing more intensely, causing Michael to notice.
"This is-!" remembered Michael.
(elsewhere…)
In their respective locations across the east coast of the United States, Matt (Dragon's Head), James R. (Dragon's Tail), Carlie (Dragon's Foot), Lisa (Dragon's Hand), and David (Dragon's Heart) all felt their respective birthmarks beginning to glow as well before fading away. Nobody said a word throughout the process, but they knew Michael was in-trouble and needed their help.
(elsewhere…)
Five reddish beams soared through the night sky towards the primary location of the Dark Turbo Duel in the sky.
(elsewhere…)
Back around Michael's location, the five beams united and flew on and on until they reached the Hummingbird marking arena—particularly entering the geoglyph. The approaching beams then struck Michael and gave him more power.
"The miracle power from my friends!" declared Michael, before the complete Seal of the Dragon appeared on his back, "I have received their wishes!"
A glowing card showed up in the middle of the Deck. Meanwhile, Orga noticed what had happened but wasn't all that worried about since Michael didn't have a Level 1 monster on the field. Michael knew that too, but was planning on changing that this turn as he braced two fingers on top of his Deck.
"Here I go, Orga!" began Michael, "This turn, the tide of battle will change!" He drew a card, "Draw!"
On cue, both players gained a Speed Counter:
-Michael: 1 → 2
-Orga: 1 → 2
Turn Three: Michael Atlas (LP: 4000)
Deck: 44
Current Hand (3): "Rendering Tuning", "Red Familiar", and "Infinite Impermanence"
Speed Counters: 2
Michael's drawn card was a Trap Card called 'Infinite Impermanence'.
"I activate the first effect of 'Crimson Gaia'!" announced Michael, as a card emerged from the middle of his Deck, "During my Main Phase: I can add 1 'Red Dragon Archfiend'…" He took the card and readied it before slotting it into his Duel Disk, "…or 1 card that mentions it from my Deck or GY to my hand, except 'Crimson Gaia'! I activate the Spell Card, 'Red Dragon Vase'!"
The mentioned Spell Card materialized face-up on the field in-front of Justice, while 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' flew above the Duel Runner.
"If I control 'Red Dragon Archfiend': I must…" explained Michael, before drawing two cards, "…draw 2 cards." Upon seeing both cards were 'Majestic Dragon' (Tuner Monster Card) and 'Red Gem' (Trap Card), he made another move, "I activate the second effect of 'Wandering King Wildwind'!" A card ('Wandering King Wildwind') emerged from the GY before fading away into oblivion, causing another card ('Chain Resonator') to emerge from his Deck and be taken, "During my Main Phase, except the turn this card was sent to the GY: I can banish this card from my GY; I must add 1 Fiend Tuner with 1500 or less ATK from my Deck to my hand!"
Orga was barely interested in what Michael had in mind to get a Level 1 monster and 'Majestic Dragon' out. That all changed when Michael said something rather ominously…
"The next monster will be something very familiar to you," warned Michael, before placing his next card ('Red Familiar') onto his Duel Disk, "Appear now, 'Red Familiar'!"
Appearing on the field was Familiar of Red Nova, now sporting a crimson red cape and crown on his head (Level: 4/ATK: 1600/DEF: 0).
"'Red Familiar'?" frowned Orga, "Why should I find it familiar?"
"Because you Dark Signers revived the servant of the Crimson Devil to have him fight me one more time," reminded Michael, "But by doing that, you ended up making me stronger than ever before!"
"What are you talking about?" objected Orga, genuinely surprised, "We never did no such thing! If we were to do anything, it would be to destroy you Signers, not make you stronger!"
"I activate 'Red Familiar's' first effect!" cut in Michael, ignoring the denials and protests, "I can Tribute 1 Fiend monster, then target 1 DARK Dragon Synchro Monster in my GY; I must…" From there, 'Red Familiar' happily danced about and sank into the ground, "…Special Summon it in Defense Position, but negate its effects," He placed a card ('Red Rising Dragon') taken from his GY onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Disk, "Resurrect, 'Red Rising Dragon'!"
Reappearing on the field was 'Red Rising Dragon' (Level: 6/ATK: 2100/DEF: 1600).
"With that, I'll activate 'Red Familiar's' second effect!" boomed Michael, as the spirit of 'Red Familiar' reappeared on the field before merging with 'Red Rising Dragon', "I can banish this card from your GY, then target 1 DARK Dragon Synchro Monster I control and declare a Level…" He held up his right hand and showed the index finger, "…from 1 to 8; that monster becomes that Level until the end of this turn!"
Because Level 1 was declared despite not being said aloud, 'Red Rising Dragon's' Level was modified to match the choice (Level: 6 → 1).
"I suppose you have your use," thought Michael, speaking about 'Red Familiar'—particularly Familiar of Red Nova. He resumed his turn, "Spell Card, 'Rendering Tuning'!" The mentioned Spell Card materialized face-up on the field in-front of Justice and, after the effect explanation, started to glow, "I must Special Summon 1 Tuner from my hand!" At last, he held up his final card ('Majestic Dragon'), "Appear now, 'Salvation Dragon - Majestic Dragon'!"
Appearing onto the field was the familiar pink-colored legendary dragon itself (Level: 1/ATK: 0/DEF: 0). With everything ready, seeing as 'Majestic Dragon' was, again, a Tuner monster, and Michael controlled both 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' and a Level 1 'Red Rising Dragon', the following could happen…
"Level 1 'Majestic Dragon' tunes Level 8 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' and Level 1 'Red Rising Dragon'!" The voice of Michael vowed, just as 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' and 'Red Rising Dragon', and 'Majestic Dragon' each flew into the night sky, "Let's kick this Turbo Duel into overdrive!"
From there, the glowing 'Majestic Dragon' began growing bigger and bigger until it was overwhelming 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' and 'Red Rising Dragon' as a new Summon Chant from Michael followed…
"Lone polished light, become the true supreme ruler and illuminate the earth!" chanted Michael, as the bodies of 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' and 'Red Rising Dragon' flew into the single Synchro Ring and became outlined while showing glowing balls of light (eight for 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend', and one for 'Red Rising Dragon'), "Shine your light!"
As the symbols 8 + 1 + 1 = 10 were briefly shown, the nine orbs of light lined up within the body of 'Majestic Dragon' before the monster turned into a massive beam of light.
"Synchro Summon!" shouted Michael, making Wheel of Fortune jump into the beam of light, "The great soul, 'Majestic Red Dragon'!"
And finally emerging from the bursting beam of light and flying through the sky, was what looked to be the bigger, flaming, 'Red Dragon Archfiend' version of 'Majestic Dragon' (Level: 10/ATK: 4000/DEF: 3000). Justice remained on the ground, pursuing Calamity while 'Majestic Red Dragon' flew above the former.
"Kneel before your King!" bellowed Michael. When he got no response, he resumed his turn, "The first effect of "Savior Demon'! It cannot be destroyed by card effects!"
Again, Orga remained dead silent over the whole thing.
"And now, to destroy everything you control!" Michael went on, "I activate 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend's' second effect! If this card is sent from the Monster Zone to the GY: I can…" The spirit of 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' reappeared in the sky beside 'Majestic Red Dragon' as they flew side-by-side, "…Special Summon 1 'Red Dragon Archfiend' from my Extra Deck (this is treated as a Synchro Summon), then, if this card was sent to the GY as Synchro Material for a DARK Dragon Synchro Monster, I can destroy all Attack Position monsters my opponent controls!"
From there, 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' broke away from 'Majestic Red Dragon' and flew into a lone Synchro Ring, turning into eight orbs of light as another Summon Chant was heard from Michael.
"The ruler's heartbeats will now file through here! Take witness to its creation-shaking power!" chanted Michael, just before the eight orbs of light within the single Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! My very soul, 'Red Dragon Archfiend'!"
Coming out of the beam of light, and flying into the sky, was the large and red-scaled dragon (Level: 8/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2000). By now, Michael was prepared to destroy Orga's entire field and, ultimately, win the duel.
"As long as another 'Gladiator Beast' monster is on the field, 'Darkness Gladiator Beast' will remain indestructible," observed Michael, "But not a single monster will be spared to serve as offerings for the 'Earthbound Immortal' monster! I will end the duel on this turn!" On cue, the spirit of 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' reappeared again, this time, by lightning its right claw on fire, in an attempt to destroy all enemy monsters in Attack Position, "'Scarred Daemon' will now nuke every monster you have in Attack Position! Daemon's Scratch!"
'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' obeyed, charging towards 'Gladiator Beast Tamer Editor' and 'Gladiator Beast Gyzarus' as it impaled them with its lit claw. The collision caused a massive explosion inside the geoglyph that seemingly claimed the lives of both enemy monsters. Michael smirked to himself, knowing that without any other 'Gladiator Beast' monsters on the field, 'Darkness Gladiator Beast' would not be able to withstand a single attack. That all changed when the smoke cleared away; the two struck monsters, 'Gladiator Beast Tamer Editor' and 'Gladiator Beast Gyzarus', were shown to have survived the power of Daemon's Scratch. All Michael could do about it was gasp, while Orga was shown chuckling madly.
"What a sight, 'Former King'!" insulted Orga, "Your attempt to get rid of my monsters was a waste of time!" He held up a card ('Test Chameleon') taken from his GY, "I activate the second effect of 'Test Chameleon'!"
A flashback ensued.
FLASHBACK
From seconds ago…
"'Scarred Daemon' will now nuke every monster you have in Attack Position!" roared Flashback Michael, "Daemon's Scratch!"
'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' obeyed, charging towards 'Gladiator Beast Tamer Editor' and 'Gladiator Beast Gyzarus'. Mere seconds before impact, a card ('Test Chameleon') emerged from Flashback Orga's GY.
"If a 'Gladiator Beast' card(s) I control would be destroyed by an opponent's card effect: I can banish this card from…" narrated Orga, as 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' impaled what looked to be a barrier with its lit claw, "…my GY; until the end of my opponent's next turn, 'Gladiator Beast' cards I control cannot be destroyed by card effects!"
The collision caused a massive explosion inside the geoglyph that seemingly claimed the lives of both enemy monsters.
END FLASHBACK
The flashback ended, with Orga laughing at Michael for the failed attempt to bring down every other monster he (Orga) controlled.
"You lost your cool and tried to recklessly win using 'Scarred Daemon', King!" mocked Orga, "You'll never defeat me by doing something like that!"
"Once my turn ends, I will have to return 'Savior Demon' to the Extra Deck and Special Summon 'Scarred Daemon' from the GY," thought Michael, grimly looking down at his GY, "But even though my chances of winning this turn have failed, I refuse to let my efforts go to waste!" Enraged, he spoke aloud again, "You damn miserable, slobbering dog! My soul will not allow anything to stop it from satiating the anger of all the victims you Dark Signers have hurt!"
"Oh, I'm soooo scared!" dismissed Orga cockily.
"You should be scared!" threatened Michael, "I activate the third effect of 'Majestic Red Dragon'!" Focus went towards 'Majestic Red Dragon' as it faced down 'Gladiator Beast Tamer Editor', "Once per turn: I can target 1 face-up monster my opponent controls; I must negate its effects, and if I do, this card gains ATK equal to that monster's ATK. These changes last until the end of this turn! I target and negate 'Tamer Editor's' effects!" As he announced the effect name, his monster opened its mouth, "Power Gain!"
A light-based breath (or vacuum) attack was fired off, striking 'Gladiator Beast Tamer Editor' and draining it of its power. Having absorbed all of that power and swallowed it whole, 'Majestic Red Dragon' began glowing a crimson red-like color as it got supercharged with all of the power it had drained from the enemy monster successfully (ATK: 4000 → 6400).
"Battle!" thundered Michael, entering the Battle Phase while 'Majestic Red Dragon' got itself inflamed with great power, "'Majestic Red Dragon', attack 'Gladiator Beast Tamer Editor'! Ultimate Powerforce!"
Now fully engulfed with flames, 'Majestic Red Dragon' charged, full speed, towards Orga's whole field as though it were a gigantic supernova.
"Gee, that's pretty," remarked Orga sarcastically, "Pretty stupid of you, that is!" To prove it—just as Michael anticipated—he held his right hand out, "Continuous Trap, 'Gladiator Beast's Medallion'!" His Set card flipped face-up and revealed itself, causing a barrier to form all around his field as 'Majestic Red Dragon' collided with it, "'Gladiator Beast' monsters I control cannot be destroyed by battle, also any battle damage I take becomes doubled!" However, his LP were undamaged (LP: 2800), "But due to the fourth effect of 'Darkness Gladiator Beast', I take no battle damage so long as I battle with 'Gladiator Beast' monsters! Your attack was all for nothing, 'Former King'!"
"Damn you! I won't let those victims down!" cursed Michael, "The second effect of 'Majestic Red Dragon' activates!" Focus went towards 'Majestic Red Dragon' as flames were seen coming from its mouth, "After damage calculation, if this card attacks: I must destroy all Defense Position monsters on the field! Red Daemon's Force!"
'Majestic Red Dragon' let loose some very powerful flames into the entire geoglyph in an effort to roast 'Darkness Gladiator Beast'. When the flames died down, Michael saw that 'Darkness Gladiator Beast' once again survived without a scratch.
"Again, 'Test Chameleon's' second effect prevents my 'Gladiator Beast' monsters from being destroyed by card effects until the end of your next turn," teased Orga, "That was your last best move, 'Former King'! Once you end your turn, 'Savior Demon' will be gone—having been wasted in a pointless effort to beat me!"
Michael merely seethed in silence before looking at what was left in his hand. Taking two of the cards there, he readied them in his right hand.
"I Set two cards…" finished Michael, slotting the two cards into his Duel Disk with the swing of the hand, "…and end my turn!" As soon as the two face-down cards appeared on the field around Justice and fades away for later use, a swarm of fire started to surround 'Majestic Red Dragon' as it roared out, "As of now, I'll activate the fourth effect of 'Majestic Red Dragon'! During the End Phase: I must target 1 'Red Dragon Archfiend' in my GY; I must return this card from the field to the Extra Deck, then Special Summon that target!"
As soon as the fire died down, flying above Justice in 'Majestic Red Dragon's' place was 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' (Level: 8/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500).
"Ah, but that monster can't stay on the field at the moment," Orga pointed out, "Do you deny it?"
"No," admitted Michael, as focus went towards 'Red Dragon Archfiend' first, then towards 'Scarred Dragon Archfiend' as it suddenly burst into flames and was destroyed, "The second effect of 'Red Dragon Archfiend' activates. Once per turn, during my End Phase: I must destroy all other monsters I control that did not declare an attack this turn. This card must be face-up on the field to activate and to resolve this effect."
"The effect of 'Fiendish Golem' also ends!" recalled Orga, just as his previously banished 'Gladiator Beast Domitianus' reappeared on the field (Level: 10/ATK: 3500/DEF: 1200), "That means I get to bring back 'Gladiator Beast Domitianus'!" Focus then went towards 'Gladiator Beast Tamer Editor' as he regained his effects and stood tall, "The third effect of 'Savior Demon' also expires, giving 'Tamer Editor' his effects back!"
'Gladiator Beast Tamer Editor', 'Gladiator Beast Gyzarus', 'Gladiator Beast Domitianus', and 'Darkness Gladiator Beast' all looked ready to tear Michael, Justice, and 'Red Dragon Archfiend' apart if given the chance to attack.
"Even 'Savior Demon' has failed to defeat this Dark Signer," thought Michael gravely, "The 'Earthbound Immortal' monster will definitely be coming this turn, but I won't give up until I win once again!"
In a frozen still, faded images of the heads of Michael and Orga respectively shooting hateful glares at one another could be seen in the sky as Justice and 'Red Dragon Archfiend' were being chased by Calamity and four 'Gladiator Beast' monsters.
"This turn, 'Former King', I'm gonna make you suffer slowly and painfully at the hands of my 'Earthbound Immortal'!" reassured Orga.
With 'Red Nova Dragon' and 'Majestic Red Dragon' both being a bust in defeating Orga Sabnak, how was Michael going to get himself out of a jam like this? Find out next time for the answer!
After a lengthy break from writing this story to work on other projects, far longer than I really expected, we're back with a brand new chapter just as we're in the final days of August. Enjoy this one!