Chapter 17 - Mecha Exam 2: Precarious Phoenix Passion
. Bold words: Name Introductions; Card names; Monster Stats; 'Special Attacks'; Player(s) Life Points; Keywords / Change of Tone.
. (A) / (FM): Anime / Fan-Made - Cards used in the Anime/Manga; Cards created by the author.
. Italic: Non-English words; Epilogue and Prologue.
. " " - Normal Talk
. ' ' - Thoughts; Summon Chants
Special Thanks: Zeon Paralysis Crystal; Lonly Wanderer (Story Proof-Read)
- CONTINUATION –
Turn 4
Syrus (S): 2400 LP
- Bullroid (ATK 1500/DEF 1800)
- Shovelroid (ATK 1000/DEF 1500)
- Megaroid Cyberium
- 4 Set Cards
Jamine (J): 2900 LP
- Ebony Crusader of Landstar (ATK 2100/DEF 2000)
- Gutsy Gambler of Landstar (ATK 400/DEF 1200)
- Minefield of Fortune (Field Spell)
- 2 Set Cards
"Let's spice this up, Syrus. It's my turn, I Draw!" Jasmine drew her card confidently. "And what a card to draw; It's rather suspicious that Lady Luck would be in my favor for this long, ain't it. And speaking of tempting fate, why not show it to you by activating my Ebony Crusader of Landstar's effect!"
The loyal crusader of the golden kingdom jumped from his spot in the field, and landed on the edge of the roulette with a stoic but determined look on his face.
"My Ebony Crusader is feeling rather lucky today, since his favorite color is Red, given his handy dandy rapier – he'll have the pleasure to spin the Roulette to decide his effect! If it lands on Red (Heads), I get to add a Landstar card from my deck; But if it lands on Blue (Tails), you Syrus, get to add any card you wish from your deck.
"I… Isn't that asking for too much? It's another 50/50 effect to predict… It can't fall Heads four times in a row, can it?" Syrus said more to himself than Jasmine, gulping nervously in anticipation.
"Fortune favors the bold, my friend. And that's why I'm adding more fuel to this furnace; By flipping up my Continuous Trap, Lucky Chance! A Trap that activates its effect once each turn; When the coin-toss effect resolves, I get to declare the result. If I get the correct result, I'll draw a card."
Her Trap was revealed, and a comically large golden coin suddenly fell to the giant floating hand for another gamble. Jasmine couldn't contain her excitement, as she flipped her long auburn hair again…
"Things are starting to burn up too much, don't you think Little Blue? If I gamble big, I may win this match; On the other hand, can you be sure that the odds will always be in my favor? But what are we waiting for, my loyal Crusader? Activate your effect, and spin that roulette! Lucky Chance' effect, I'll call Heads!" The gloved hands started the action by snapping the golden coin with the thumb; the coin then fell while flipping faces until it fell on the top of the other gloved hand, the other covering the result.
Jasmine points dramatically to her knight to nonverbally give the command, and the crusader pushed the edge at full speed, the roulette in the middle of the arena then lit up, spinning as the edges alternated between red and blue. Then it started to slow down, it clicked loudly as the needle approached Red but then instead landed… on a Blue.
"A- Alright…! That's Tails for me! Does that mean I get to add a card from my deck?" Syrus asks while smiling, looking a bit encouraged to pick his deck from the disk. But then he stopped cold, when an electric billboard from the 'Minefield of Fortune' had the words 'Redo!' being shown off.
"Redo… What does that mean, Jasmine?"
"Exactly as it sounds, Sy. I'm re-doing the result of my roulette; After all, it's a part of Ebony Crusader's effect!" Jasmine explained with a wink and a wide grin. The roulette lit up once more, Ebony Crusader spinning with intensity as its redo ability, and the auburn girl's voice rang louder and bolder…
"C'mon Lady Luck; Don't fail me this Lucky Chance; I'll still call Heads!" The roulette slowed again; The lights flickered… and finally, it landed on Red – Heads. Jasmine cheered, raising a fist in triumph.
"Yes! Lady Luck's on my side after all! That means the positive part of Ebony Crusader's effect activates – It allows me to add a 'Landstar' card from my deck to my hand."
For a surprise celebration, the Fusion Monster raised the edge where the needle was pointing on, as if he had found a secret treasure; Finding a golden card, he then threw it directly in Jasmine's direction so that she could pick it dramatically.
Not wanting to miss his chance, the mischievous Gambler grinned as well, his eyes glinting for the host's signal, while shuffling his deck of cards…
"Oh, how could I forget about my Gutsy Gambler. Since my Ebony Crusader's effect required a coin-flip, he'll let me draw an extra card." She gestured to her monster, the gambler chucking up one of the glowing cards from his deck going to the top of Jasmine's deck, making her draw it.
"Last, but not least. My Lucky Chance also activates! Since I called the result of a coin flip correctly, I get to draw yet another card!" The magical glove hand that held the coin revealed the result, Heads. With a magically augmented twinkling snap of the finger, the coin transformed into a card; slowly descending into Jasmine's hand, while basking in the audience curious chatter
"T… Three cards added to Jasmine's hand, because of one monster effect." Syrus mutters, more to himself, while Dee crosses her arms in thought.
"My, My. Going zero to a hundred in record time." The sorceress then looked at Syrus with a curious expression. "Hey, we'll be broke before the duel is over if we don't have something prepared."
'I know, I know…' Syrus quickly replied telepathically. 'But how am I supposed to counter something this… chaotic? It's like every move she makes could go either way, some of the results in my favor… but she's still coming out on top!'
"There's gotta be a way to use her own tricks against her. Pay attention to every detail and angle, Syrus. There's always a pattern, a possibility yet to be found." Dee advised while narrowing her eyes at the field. "Maybe we're looking at this puzzle the wrong way."
'A pattern? I wonder…' The blue haired student pondered, unknowingly holding his breath while watching Jasmine's next move.
"You seem pretty distracted, my dear opponent." She challengingly said to him with a cheeky grin, flourishly revealing the card in hand. "Let's redirect your attention to the activation of my Fusion Spell Card, Star Spirit Surge!"
The card shimmered with auroral starlight, the artwork displaying a picture of seven cartoonish stars with differing adornments granting eight warriors their power. But the card channeled a orb of raging multi-colored cosmic energy as if it was the aurora borealis condensed into a comet of energy.
(FM) Star Spirit Surge - Normal Spell
(This card is always treated as a 'Landstar' card)
Activate this card by declaring the Fusion Materials listed on a "Landstar" Fusion Monster. Roll a six-sided die and apply the result:
- 1/2 - Fusion Summon 1 "Landstar" Fusion Monster from your Extra Deck, using monsters from your hand or field as Fusion Materials.
- 3/4 - Send 1 random card from your hand to the Graveyard, then take 1000 damage.
- 5/6 - Shuffle 1 monster from your hand or field into the Deck instead of using it as Fusion Material and this card's activation is negated.
"This Fusion Spell is a rather different beast from the simple Polymerization! You see, to fuse my Landstar monsters, I gotta take a big risk by rolling a six-sided die. If I roll a 1 or 2, a reward lies in wait for me. But if I roll and get 3 to 6… let's just say a terrible misfortune will befall upon me.
"Roll low… that's weird." Syrus muttered to himself before thinking for a second about the terms and conditions of the card being played. 'Usually when Jasmine would roll her dice, her results would land 3 or higher. But now… she has to roll lower than that. Is she counting on some reversal of fortune?'
"Thinking carefully on what she said?" Dee asks intentionally, knowing how deep her apprentice was thinking to himself. "The answer to countering her may lay here."
Syrus notices the dice falling to Jasmine's hand by the Spell effect, as she caught it with a Cheshire-Cat like grin on her face; Until she stopped for a little before she could roll the dice… And cupped her other hand around it, spinning it deliberately in her palms.
"It's all about technique, trust, and bravery. All traits needed to strive toward the unknown…" She smirked with fire in her eyes, as she carefully positioned her hand before tossing the dice onto the roulette-like surface of her Field Spell's environment. "All I need to do… is believe! DICE ROLL, GO!"
As the dice tumbled, Syrus noticed something peculiar—How Jasmine had thrown the block at an angle, seemingly adjusting her odds a tad. His eyes widened slightly as the dice settled and stopped… landing squarely on 2.
"ALRIGHT! Lady Luck smiles upon me as always!" Jasmine declared triumphantly. "That means I can fuse my Devious Dealer of Landstar on the field, and Swordsman of Landstar from my hand!"
The multi-colored orb morphed into a rainbow-colored fusion vortex and spiraled to life, the energy strands engulfing Jasmine's two monsters – The Devious Dealer flipped its deck of cards dramatically before dissolving into light, while the Swordsman waved its tiny sword valiantly one last time. As the swirling vortex of light engulfed Jasmine's monsters, she dramatically raised her hand toward the sky; Her voice rang out with enthusiasm as she made the chant.
"'Valiant warrior from the Realm of Landstar, forged in the crucible of fate! With the wit of gamblers and the will of stalwart swordsmen, the cries of the battlefield forever beckon the brave'! Fusion Summon! Arise, Hero of Fortune, Crimson Blade of Landstar!"
The fusion energy exploded in a burst of radiant starlight, as Jasmine's new monster simply walked forth as the energy sparks danced about that heralded his arrival. A tall but striking warrior with armor gleaming a radiant crimson, golden stars etched into its chest plate and shoulder guards. It wielded an immensely large blade with starlight dancing about its general vicinity, its hilt decorated with a pattern of tiny dice and cards. The blade itself emits a seemingly faint glow, as if hiding its true potential, but ever so ready to unleash its power at the roll of the dice. The warrior's helmet bore a golden coin symbol at the center, further emphasizing its connection to fortune. (ATK 2400/DEF 2200)
(FM) Crimson Blade of Landstar - Fusion/EARTH/Warrior/Level 6/ATK 2400/DEF 2200
2 "Landstar" monsters
Once per turn, if you roll a six-sided die to activate a Warrior monster's effect: You can reroll the die and choose which result to apply.
During your Main Phase 2, you can roll a six-sided die and apply one of the following effects based on the result: 1/2 - Discard 1 card; 3/4 - Draw 2 cards; 5/6 - Target 1 card you control; destroy it.
"I hope you're ready, Syrus Truesdale." Jasmine challenges as her tone gets more mischievous and even a little sinister. "Lady Luck and I have so many games we've yet to play. Ooooh~, Gallant Guardsman of Landstar~, your hostess with the mostest has need of you now!"
On her field manifested with a golden flash of light a diminutive but goofy looking noble clad in silver armor with oversized shoulder plates, shining stars like medals littered throughout the armor's design. In one hand, carrying a large shield shaped like a six-sided die; In the other, it wielded a short spear adorned with ribbons. The Guardsman's exaggerated helmet had a billowing green flame-like plume, and despite its small stature, the landstar's determination was crystal clear to the audience. (ATK 1000/DEF 1200)
(FM) Gallant Guardsman of Landstar - Effect Monster/EARTH/Warrior/Lvl 3/ATK 1000/DEF 1200
Once per turn, roll a six-sided die. Apply the appropriate effect: 1/5 - Take 500 damage; 2/4 - Return 1 monster your opponent controls to the hand; 3/6 - Change this card's battle position, then this card loses 500 DEF.
The crowd's buzzing increasingly grew as Jasmine's three monsters made their appearances on her field, their mere presence seeming to pressure the Slifer Red. The Obelisk Blue student savored her ever so delectable advantage, but playfully pondered about Syrus' response to this roadblock ahead of him.
Said opponent was… silent, to those who didn't know Syrus too well he even looked frozen; While Dee on the other hand was quite curious about the duel's climax, not expecting the table to turn their opponent's way so quickly.
"… Uhm, Sy? Are we gonna do something about this?" She asks amicably. "I'm not telling you to go all out against these monsters, that's just reckless even by Jaden's standards… but I'm still counting on your facedown line up, and – Sy… Can you hear me?"
"This duel… feels familiar." The blue-haired Slifer Student muttered under his breath.
"Familiar? How so?" Dee asks curiously, her head tilted towards her apprentice. "Mind filling me in?"
Syrus couldn't help but reminisce with a focused expression, remembering that day – The Big Day of the Entrance Exam. As he looked towards the figures of Ebony Crusader, Crimson Blade and Gallant Guardsman of Landstar. They were in place of Doom Dozer, Dreadscythe Harvester and Flying Kamakiri #1. And Jasmine was in the Duel Instructor's place as his opponent.
'Back then, I thought I had no chance of winning.' He thought to himself, the memory prompting him to mutter, parts of his thoughts spilling aloud to himself. "But I did it then; I passed the Entry Exam in Domino City, right?"
"... Yes, you did just before Jaden came in. It's why you're here in Duel Academy, you proved yourself worthy of the opportunity to learn more." Dee says unsure of where Syrus' train of thought was going, thinking he was merely trying to hype himself up with previous accomplishments, which wasn't unwelcomed in this situation but Dee couldn't help but be curious about Syrus' thought process.
"What does that past victory have to do with this challenge?"
"It means Jasmine might have the upper hand right now, just like the Instructor I dueled against." Syrus said quietly to Dee as he looked up at Jasmine with a tense expression as readying himself for the next upcoming obstacle. "With the added weight of most of my cards now being luck-based and Jasmine's luck seeming to last a long time. There's gotta be an angle to jump off from?"
Dee hummed looking at their opponent while thinking how Jasmine executed her gambles.
"Well maybe look at how she rolls her dice in comparison to how her monsters did it, you did catch that, didn't you?"
'...Maybe, thanks ma'am.' Syrus politely responds to the magician's suggestion, awaiting for his opponent's next move with a calm but steadfast expression on his face as he takes a deep breath. Jasmine raises an eyebrow at this shift.
"My my, what do we have here… such admirable resolve I feel from you adorable little cuddle bug; But luck is still on my side, wouldn't you wager?" She teasingly taunts the Slifer Red. "Let's see how long you can hold out against fate's ever twisting embrace; I'll activate my Gallant Guardsman of Landstar's effect! DICE ROLL, GO!"
With a snap of Jasmine's fingers, a colossal dice block fell upon the gaudily dressed landstar warrior; Receiving an approving nod from their wielder and with a dramatic swing, it hurled the die toward the arena, spinning about wildly.
"Come on Dice, give your hostess with the mostest a 2 or 4! It's a 33% chance in my favor." Jasmine leaned forward, her eyes fixed on each face of the cube. "Let's send Syrus' Buldroid back to his hand!"
By everyone's surprise, including Syrus on the other side of the arena… the die slowed and eventually landed on 3.
"Is… Is that a negative effect?" Syrus asks curiously and hoping on the inside to see Jasmine's luck falter, but his hopes are seemingly dashed as he hears a 'huff' coming from Jasmine's side.
"By landing on 3, my Gallant Guardsman will be forced to change to Defense Position, and will have his Defense decrease to 500." She explained, but then extended her finger. "But not just yet, I activate my Crimson Blade's effect – I'll have my Gallant Guardsman re-roll the die."
By Jasmine's orders, the mentioned Fusion Monster went to the arena grabbing the colossal dice, leisurely picking up the die with showman-like ease; And he threw it back again to the Gallant Guardsman's hands, now quite visibly nervous for activating his effect again. As he looked a bit worried at Jasmine for failing her again… but his host didn't show any worry, instead giving a carefree smile and thumbs-up towards him which resulted in a wave of relief washing over the monster.
"Gallant Guardsman, no matter the result… activate your effect, and let fate decide our next move!" The guardsman's apprehension quickly, along with supportive thumbs up from his comrades, the noble warrior of Landstar threw the dice with all his might. "DICE ROLL, GO!"
Both Syrus and Jasmine watched carefully, the both of them quiet as the die tumbled across the arena; Drawing an increasingly greater portion of eyes from the crowd. As the die would fall on 4… by a surprising stroke of bad luck the die then landed on 1; Much to Syrus' inward relief.
"Uh oh…" Jasmine responded rather deflatedly to her good luck tripping over itself; And then Gallant Guardsman's negative effect activated, one of the dice block's dots shot a bolt of electrical energy toward Jasmine, being akin to a taser while not that painful looking, did puff up her hair into an Afro-like hairstyle as if it was a hairy pufferfish.
J: 2900 - 2400 LP
"J-Jasmine, are you okay?" a concerned Syrus asks due to her momentary silence after she was essentially struck by lightning.
"Hmm... No need to worry." She puffed out, while tending to her hair with an irritated look towards it. "It took so long to get my hair just right this morning." She couldn't help but pout aloud.
Watching Jasmine fail to achieve her desired result not once but actually twice in a row had confirmed a certain suspicion in Syrus' mind. And noticed that maybe that was his opportunity to change the tables as he intended… The fact that Jasmine was not the one rolling the dice which resulted in the double failure.
'So even someone as lucky as Jasmine needed a bit of skill to use her fortune properly. She may have been on a roll earlier, but even she knows luck isn't everything…'
"It looks like you're getting a read on her." Dee chimed in quietly, sensing Syrus' growing confidence. "Time your offensive right."
With that advice in mind the Slifer Red looked a bit less skittish but a bit more eager for their match, Jasmine couldn't help but chuckle softly, her voice calm and self-assured despite her misfortune.
"Don't get too comfy, little Sy. My Luck only faltered for a mere moment, but it always comes back to those who always embrace it no matter the hardship." She then picked out another card from her hand. "And also, Gallant Guardsman might be the weakest of the bunch, but that's what good equipment is for; Like this one Spell for example, Legendary Stellar Sword."
The guardsman felt a presence calling to him when the activated spell card manifested a weapon for the plucky guardian. A blade of celestial origin with golden and silver colors intertwined, pulsating with a starlight type of energy that billowed around it. The sword being engraved with glowing cravings of constellations.
This boosted the guardian's resolve and morale, signified by the Guardsman posing heroically, his wide grin almost too big for his small stature. (ATK 1000 - 2000/DEF 1200)
(FM) Legendary Stellar Sword - Equip Spell
(This card is treated as a "Landstar" card)
A "Landstar" monster equipped with this card gains 1000 ATK. Once per turn, you can roll a die and apply the following effect:
- 1/2/3: Gain 1000 LP.
- 4/5/6: Your opponent gains 1000 LP.
"And that makes my three monsters stronger than yours, Syrus." Jasmine smirked, as she pointed to the Equip Spell. "This sword not only boosts my monster's Attack by 1000 ATK, but also grants a relaxing reprieve! Let's see who fate favors this time."
With a dice block falling into the redhead's hand, the Obelisk Blue blows softly on the dice for good luck, as she looks at Syrus with a confident grin.
"Let's give this roll a bit of spice – If it's from 1 to 3, I receive 1000 Life Points. If it's 4 to 6, you get restoration instead! Well then; DICE ROLL GO!" She threw the die high into the air, the portion of the crowd watching leaned in, awaiting the final result.
It spun wildly, reflecting the glowing lights of the arena, before landing with a clatter on the field… the die landed squarely on 3.
"Looks like I'm back in the game, because that's 1000 Life Points for me!" Her expression lit up, as the Legendary Stellar Sword began to emit a brilliant but comforting wave of golden light energy over Jasmine's field and over the girl in question; Restoring her somewhat puffy hair back to normal as a byproduct of the healing energy much to the redhead's relief.
J: 2400 - 3400 LP
Meanwhile, Syrus furrowed his brow, watching Jasmine carefully.
'Blowing on the dice… Her superstitions are a little weird, but they remind me of…' His thoughts trailed off, flashing back to younger years; Sitting cross-legged on the floor, playing board games with Zane, clutching dice tightly and blowing on them for "extra luck". Syrus had always thought little rituals like that gave him the edge to overcome the odds back then…
"Syrus… are you okay?" Dee nudges him a little bit.
'I… It's nothing, really.' He shook his head with a small but nostalgic smile. 'Just… Jasmine reminds me of when I used to do stuff like that. It's funny how much we grow up, and let that silly stuff define us.'
"Well, silly gimmick or not, it's working for her." Dee retorts with an easygoing grin at Syrus' calmer demeanor. "Keep an eye on her movements; You lasted long enough for her luck to falter once, just hang in there and it will give out completely soon"
'Got it.' The blue haired student responded, his attention back to the auburn girl. "Can't help to think how much of a grip your luck has in this duel. How many luck based cards do you have in total?"
"Heh… I lost count a few years ago, but you seem willing to embrace this delightful uncertainty now; But I do want to see how lucky you can be as well. Since I have the field advantage, I'll start my Battle Phase!"
"What!? W-wait, Wait!" Syrus exclaims in shock at the seemingly straightforward approach. "You didn't activate your Crimson Blade's effect before this. Why not?"
"Gotta clear the board somehow. And what fun would it be if I didn't leave you guessing? You'll see soon enough." Jasmine spoke sly with a carefree smile, while gesturing to her monster to attack. "Gallant Guardsman, attack Buldroid! Go, 'Brave Blade Burst'!"
The Gallant Guardsman charged forward, his radiant Legendary Stellar Sword held high; The little knight enveloped by a billowing shroud of silvery starlight and leaving behind a burning trail of golden light energy as he made way to the Roid and then he jumped up high with his blade shining like a comet aimed at Syrus' crawler, who was panicking in response…
Having a better sense of the battlefield he was traversing, Syrus with a hesitant gulp felt he had no other option but taking a chance, due to the card's utility.
"I activate my Trap Card, Magical Hats!" Syrus resolutely declared, as he flipped up the Trap Card. "By having you attack my Buldroid, it'll be in one of three Magical Hats, alongside 2 Non-Monster Cards that I'll pick from my deck."
"You know the rules and so do I~!" Jasmine suddenly sang out with a deceptively cheerful smile and an accompanying fingersnap, the familiar police sirens blared in response to the Slifer's Trap Card and the two monsters stuck, seemingly frozen in time with a 'Pause' symbol hovering idly upon the two monsters.
"It seems you haven't counted out my Field Spell being activated with that non-Coin Flip Trap Card. Are you willing to take a chance?"
Syrus in response to the Redhead's idle dare took a moment to look at the gloved hand hovering before him to carry him to the edge of the roulette; With a gulp climbed on the hand to its destination. Standing in place where he would need to push the roulette, Syrus clenched his fists nervously.
Before he could push the edge, Dee hovered straight to him. The sorceress warmly smiled at her apprentice; As she placed her hand gently over his, surprising the boy.
'W… What are you doing, Dee?'
"I must've told you at the beginning of the duel about you making your own decisions…" The sorceress said. "Doesn't mean I can't support you when you're unsure of your decisions. What do you say, Sy – Wanna push it together?"
Syrus' cheeks blushed a bright red at her eager but supportive words; Also the side effect of her heartfelt support calming him down also helped.
'Okay, Dee. I want to do it with you…'
"Great! And now… what do we choose?" Dee questions with a thoughtful expression as she wondered how to advise her student. "In Jasmine's last turn, you got Tails, right? If her streak with heads is any indication…"
'Sounds good enough. Let's do this.' Both Syrus and Dee gripped the edge of the roulette and looked at Jasmine, although the Obelisk student could only see the Slifer student. "Okay, Jasmine. I'm choosing Tails!."
"More confident, I see!" Jasmine grins widely, although inwardly curious on how Syrus managed to get his hands on the Trap Card, Magical Hats. She had thought that Syrus didn't have such a card, but nonetheless she couldn't contain her excitement. "You know what will happen if your gamble fails, don't you?"
"I do… but all I need to do… is to believe in myself! GO ROULETTE!" Syrus declares as he and Dee pushed the edge at full speed, sending it spinning; The lights danced between red and blue panels constantly as the needle slowed down with each edge hit. "C'mon Tails. Don't miss it now!"
As the roulette slowed down, the tension thickened greatly between the two opponents… As the needle teetered on the edge of a red panel, and it finally albeit barely landed on a blue panel (Tails). Syrus took a relieved breath and Dee gave a triumphant holler as the Field Spell permitted the Trap Card's activation.
"About damn time!" Dee couldn't help but shout, as red and yellow parts of the crowd also buzzing with excitement for the Slifer Red finally getting some good luck to balance out Jasmine's good fortune for the first time in this match.
"This means that I can now use my Magical Hats' effect, correct?" Asks Syrus, after returning back to his spot.
"Indeed… And you left me with quite the guessing game to play." Jasmine said idly, glad that Syrus could get back on track, and can savor this moment.
"Hope you enjoy it, because these Hats will be shuffled!" Syrus picked two other cards from his deck and placed them face-down on his disk. Suddenly, the three Magical Hats on his field began shuffling rapidly across his field, their positions mixing, swapping, and obscuring Slifer Red's real monster…
"Good luck guessing where Buldroid is hiding, Jasmine! This is your time to play my Game!"
"Ooooh, I love this game! Nice turnaround Sy!" Jasmine compliments as her eyes sparkled with excitement, but then crossed her arms with a thinking look on her face; Looking thoughtfully at the arrangement of the newly manifested hats. "Eeny, meeny, miny, moe… Hmm, are you trying to bait me with something obvious? Or maybe playing a rousing round of mind games with little ole me?"
"And let you retake control of the duel again? Ask Lady Luck for that answer… but my Shovelroid isn't hiding himself." Syrus couldn't help but point out his violet roid, who stood shocked and a fair bit angry at being sold out by his host. "My bad… Maybe I shouldn't have said anything…"
Jasmine lightly chuckled at Syrus' little joke, but her attention was now focused on the hats. Indeed, Syrus could be hiding a dangerous card under the assortment of black hats… but those cards cannot activate their effects when they're flipped, and they're treated as Normal Monsters, no more and no less…
Getting blindsided by a Magic Cylinder wasn't on her to do list especially today on an exam. But if Syrus had such a card, it would be a clever maneuver. And as much as she wants to believe Syrus wouldn't go that far and set such a Trap in one of the Hats. The rational voice in her head finally broke through her crush-induced adrenaline haze to reiterate the simple but critical fact they are both in an exam and to be rightfully wary.
"This thrill, Syrus… No wonder you had gotten one over Alexis in your guys' beachside ballet. It almost makes me wish I was in her place during that duel; Feeling what Alexis felt, the excitement of seeing you going all-out and with tricks that nobody would expect… I can see a career for you in the Illusionist field, for pete's sake."
"Why thank you. I take that as a compliment." Syrus nods, his chest feeling a surge of warmth from the comment, while receiving a chuckle from his instructor. "Don't panic over picking the wrong card!"
"Oh you know me… If I choose badly, I'll just pick myself up! Gallant Guardsman, strike the middle Hat!" the 'pause' symbol quickly disappeared as the demand was made and then her Warrior fell forward from his chronomancy-induced suspension, readying his Stellar Sword for a skirmish, the blade was enveloped in a raging shroud of star-like fire as the guardsman swung an out an star-shaped blade of energy tinted a radiant silver primed to go through the Hat.
Said giant headwear was sliced into two burning halves as the guardsman due to the recoil of the blast had him landing roughly back to Jasmine's side of the field, but unfortunately the prize for Jasmine's guesswork was a hidden Trap Card waiting beneath it…
"Oh dear, guess I chose wrong…" She playfully pouts.
"Oh, but It was a good guess, Jasmine - You've given me an extra hand!" Syrus spoke somewhat relieved at Jasmine destroying the wrong target. "This destroyed Trap should be familiar to you."
"Wait, really? Then let me guess… Is it Wonder Garage?"
"Yup!" Syrus picked out a card from his hand and placed it in his disk. "And you should know that when it's destroyed, its effect lets me Special Summon Strikeroid from my hand."
With a burst of white steam washing over a part of Syrus' field, a familiarly red toon jet soared through the hot billowing shroud with its engines roaring in anticipation for a fight (ATK 1400/DEF 400)
The audience's anticipation grew, as they stared at Syrus' field with his 2 recently summoned or revealed 'Roid' monsters, and 2 more Magical Hats waiting to be uncovered.
"Alright Sy, you've got two Hats left, and I know I'll destroy your Buldroid! It's just a coin flip away." Jasmine states as she smirks at the Slifer Red, who couldn't help but smile slightly in response somewhat less nervously but a bit more playfully as if redhead's behavior was rubbing off on him.
"Fair warning – If I were you, I wouldn't destroy my Buldroid, because it has another effect – If Buldroid is destroyed by battle, you have to discard a card from your hand." Syrus couldn't help but retort with a little bit of catharsis in his tone at the redhead in response to the changing tide of this tumultuous duel.
Jasmine's eyebrow curiously raised thanks to Syrus' little taunt… in partial surprise at the jab. But more from his warning, her train of thoughts quickly shifted her game plan… she needed the cards she had on hand for the next phase of her detectable scheme.
The redhead certainly felt at this moment missing the intended target was a blessing in disguise as she couldn't help but cringe a bit inwardly at the possibility of her plan going wrong at a bad time; But she needed to continue her offensive, in order to have her next step work properly…
"Ya know, Sy… I'm very grateful for you giving the game away too soon. You truly are a gentleman; But that just means I'll have to go for another target!"
As she placed a hand on her hip, the lady gave a stylishly commanding gesture to her Crimson Blade of Landstar.
"Ok, change of plans; I need you to attack the Shovelroid! Go 'Blazing Blade'!" Her crimson swordsman quickly dashed toward violet cartoon excavator, the blade in hand set alight with molten gold-tinted energy primed to easily slice through steel, and in a flash the sword fighter with effortless ease cut through the panicking cartoon machine in two and then the two broken parts then burst apart in a heap of burning scrap metal. However, the Slifer Red in question had a notably calm expression on his face as if expecting something like this.
"Thanks for assistance Jasmine; That was also part of my plan, since now Shovelroid's effect activates."
"Wait… Another effect?" Jasmine questions, her face raising an eyebrow, decently impressed. "What'cha got this time Syrus?"
"Well nothing you can't handle, right? When my Shovelroid is destroyed by battle, I can discard a card from my hand to add any Spell Card from my Deck." Syrus looked at the card he would discard to his grave slot, but he instead called the magical glove hand nearby to give the card to its owner. Said gloved hand picked the card and flew straight back to Jasmine's field…
"Hmm? Dice Summon… Wait a minute, this is the card you got from my Minefield of Fortune." Jasmine comments, squinting at the returned card in thought. "You saw no use in this card?"
"I am not used to gambling cards… I was thinking about it, but I didn't know if using it was a part of your strategy. So using it as payment to activate my Shovelroid's effect was the safest move. Sorry." the Slifer Student explained his tone of voice genuinely innocent, a bit surprised seeing Jasmine give an amused smile in response to the explanation.
"Why would I be ticked off at a smart move? It's an understandable one…"
"Is that so? Then wait until you see this…" Syrus eagerly extended his hand, flipping up one of his set cards. "I activate my Trap Card, Mechanic's Soul!"
(A) Mechanic's Soul - Normal Trap
When a "roid" monster you control is destroyed: Send 1 "roid" monster from your Deck to the Graveyard; return the destroyed "roid" monster to the field in the same position.
"Nice, Nice! Keep it up, Sy!" Dee cheers, wanting to see Syrus press his momentum further.
"Now ma'am… with this Trap Card, I'm allowed to send any Roid monster from my Deck to the Graveyard, to revive back my destroyed monster in Defense Position!" Syrus sent a certain monster card to his graveyard, to pick his destroyed monster and place it back to his disk. "Return here, Shovelroid!"
By its host's orders, the cartoonish excavator returned to the field, wielding its large mechanical shovel attachment as a shield; Huffing in irritation at its wielder's intentions to bring it back with a weird goal in mind. (ATK 1000/DEF 1500)
'Weird… Syrus was supposed to activate his Megaroid Cyberium's effect to summon another monster from his deck. What is he hiding this time?' Jasmine thought to herself, knowing from her last turn when he used said card when his Strikeroid was destroyed.
'This can't be a coincidence, can it? This duel has so many twists and turns so far, who am I to end the fun now? We're getting closer to the climax, just a bit more, Jazzy. Your timing needs to be perfect for that moment…'
But getting her mind out of the future plotting of this duel. The redhead had to pick from quite the menagerie of solid threats on Syrus' field – Between the Strikeroid, which had an effect to make a quick return back to Syrus' hand, or destroy Shovelroid, which would trigger its effect again to add yet another Spell Card by the cost of 1 other card. And then there's the problem of the Two Hats – If she hits the one with the Buldroid lurking underneath one of them, she'll be forced to discard a card from her hand…
Jasmine grits her teeth in a mix of excitement and irritation at the situation her cuddlebug of an opponent put her in. The redhead's respect for Syrus grew even further by each minute she took to decide in this 'Rock and Hard Place' situation. Her cheeks burning red in anticipation, her blood boiling… her opponent could've sworn her eyes had heart-shaped flames of desire burning in them just longing for more entertainment from her crush.
"Quit tempting me, Sy. You might get me to do something I'll sorely regret~.… I'll continue the Battle phase, with Ebony Crusader of Landstar attacking your Strikeroid! Go, 'Dark Straight'!" Her black crusader gracefully leapt into battle, readying his crimson-tinted rapier to strike the jet-like machine on Syrus' field; Before Strikeroid could get turned into scrap, its emergency engines kicked into high gear with the Roid dodging the crusader's onslaught and fleeing into the Cyberium Machine, while Syrus looked at the combative exchange about to explain why…
"My Strikeroid will return back to my hand, but I'll have to pay 800 Life Points as a result!" The Slifer Red explained, while adding the retreated monster back to his hand.
S: 2400 - 1600 LP
As a result of Strikeroid's retreat, the cartoon cybernetic container behind Syrus started to gradually glow a different color of light…
"My Megaroid Cyberium's effect activates – My wind attribute Roid will be replaced by one with a dark attribute. And I choose you… Stealthroid!" The Cyberium machine signified by the breezy green light shifting to ominous but sharp violet light, the aerokinetic energy being converting into an billowing shroud of darkness; And the cannon on the top shot out a camouflaged dark jet with a red visor (ATK 1200/DEF 0)
"Hmm, no wonder you activated your Megaroid Cyberium's effect when my offensive died down… You wanted me to burn out to let you summon a new monster?" Jasmine questioned, impressed by the quick replacement.
"And that's not all…" Syrus responds, pressing his momentum further, and due to the end of the Battle Phase, the remaining two Magical Hats vanished in a puff of confetti and smoke and revealed their secrets. The hat from the left revealed the Buldroid, while the other Hat revealed a Spell Card… an Equip Spell to be exact.
"Magic Formula?" Jasmine read the card aloud, then gasped at the realization. "Wait, does that mean…"
"Yes, it does trigger its effect when it's destroyed by Magical Hats; And I'll regain 1000 Life Points in advance." Syrus responds as he places the Equip Card into his grave slot, while a green shroud of magical healing energy engulfed him as his Life Points ticked upwards.
S: 1600 - 2600 LP
"And that's my card as well!" Dee couldn't help but say, giving an impressed nod to her apprentice at the smart move. "Way to play, Sy! We're getting her number now!"
With the Magician's support, Syrus couldn't help but have a soft smile while scratching his head sheepishly accepting her compliments.
'Thanks for the support, Dee.'
Jasmine kept her smirk up, while folding her arms – Yes, she was really impressed by Syrus turning the tables during her Battle Phase. She needed to make sure all his monsters were destroyed, but instead, Syrus quickly pulled in more of the cavalry. Quite troublesome…
"Alright, Syrus. Good job; I'm glad to see you're not just defending now. The duelist that fought Alexis to a standstill has finally made his debut on the big stage, now we can really run wild."
"Is that so… Wait, you've been going easy!?"
"Maybe, maybe not, you'll see soon. But there was a reason for me to battle your monsters this turn. So that I can flip this!" Jasmine exclaims as she flipped up one of her set cards. "My Trap Card, Fortune of Landstar, activates!"
(FM) Fortune of Landstar - Normal Trap
You can only activate this card at the end of the Battle Phase if you control a "Landstar" monster. Toss a coin and apply the following effect: Heads - Destroy monsters your opponent controls, up to the number of "Landstar" monsters you control; Tails - Destroy all monsters you control.
If you declared attacks with at least 3 Warrior monsters this turn, you can choose which effect to apply without tossing a coin.
"If you thought you would get by with the monsters covering you during the Battle Phase, better not get ahead of yourself. Since I control 3 "Landstar" monsters, my Fortune of Landstar is about to destroy 3 of your Roid monsters in a flash." Jasmine eagerly states, hiding a mischievous chuckle with a challenging grin.
"Wait, shouldn't your Field Spell Minefield of Fortune activate since your Trap doesn't have a coin-toss? You would need to gamble to make your Trap work…"
"Yeaaaaaah~, about that…" Jasmine hummed slyly with a cat-like smile as she gestured dramatically to her side of the field to further explain her play. "I've had a boon in my back pocket that grants a reprieve from that condition, if I had battled this turn with my three Landstar monsters, I get to decide the final result of this Trap! And I choose Heads."
The roulette started spinning quickly with the light shining through the Red and Blue panels, as per the conditions of the trap; Until one of the magical gloves quickly halted the roulette wheel's needle so the trap's condition would be met – As if showcasing its power and precision, the needle near instantly stopped, landing on a Red panel (Heads).
Due to the Fortune of Landstar' activation supporting the three Landstar warriors, they put their weapons together, forming a multi-colored triangle of star energy, and with a cry of effort from all three of Jasmine's monsters they let loose the volatile pyramid of energy onto Syrus' field which flood it with brilliant auroral energy destroying all Syrus' monsters and now with the star-augmented lightshow over, his field was empty.
"What a way to play around her Field condition…" Dee said next to her apprentice, her face showing a mix of appreciation and irritation in regards to their opponent. "After all that effort and still little headway, and now we're vulnerable thanks to that trap"
"Maybe that was her plan all along…" Syrus pondered quietly to himself while noticing Jasmine's grin. "She did start missing her shots, so she needed to find a way to activate her Trap without having to rely on luck this time. That's why she wanted to battle with her 3 Landstar monsters, knowing that whether or not she succeeded in the fight, her trap would take everything out."
Syrus' deduction left a curious look on Dee's face. But while concerned to feel like there was more to Jasmine than meets the eye. The magician smiled at the way Syrus was focusing on the duel so far, how serious Syrus was willing to be to pass this Exam Duel.
"That's right, Sy… You seem to have a plan for your next turn, don't you?"
'If… If I am lucky, I may be able to turn this around. I just need to draw the correct card… and have your support as well.' Syrus says softly, with an approving nod coming from his mentor.
Meanwhile, Jasmine felt rather satisfied for activating her card that felt like it had seemingly ruined Syrus' little machination. But her turn wasn't over yet… as Syrus once mentioned, she didn't activate her other Fusion Monster's initial effect.
"I'm sorry to interrupt your train of thought, Sy. But before entering my battle phase, you did mention I didn't activate my Crimson Blade of Landstar's effect… Thanks for reminding me, I'm setting it off right now!"
A gigantic dice block fell on top of the Fusion Monster, but instead of catching it the swordsman impaled it; Making Syrus and Dee wonder why wasn't Jasmine asking Crimson Blade to roll the dice.
"You may be wondering what's happening, since I didn't ask my monster to roll the dice… it's because this time, he won't be rolling it. The result has already been decided." Jasmine declares while pointing her finger at the gigantic dice. To her opponent's surprise, a purple cloaked gypsy-esque hermit was sitting on top of it and next to the sword's tip with a grumpy look on face to the guy below the block.
"W–what's that!?" Syrus exclaims in shock.
"That is my Fortune Teller of Landstar! This monster's timing is perfect thanks to its effect!" Jasmine eagerly explained, as she revealed the card in her hand.
(FM) Fortune Teller of Landstar - Effect Monster/EARTH/Warrior/Lv 1/ATK 0/DEF 0
If you would activate a "Landstar" effect that makes you roll a six-side die: You can send this card from the field or hand to the GY; You choose the die result.
"And now, my Fortune Teller will be the one deciding my fortune… and allows me a reward, but combined with Crimson Blade positive effect! I declare the dice will land on a 4! DICE ROLL GO!" Jasmine demanded with a stylish wave of the hand to her crusader to emphasize her command, and said Fusion Monster with a burst of radiant red energy blasted the dice high to the air and off his sword, and as the dice black was soaring into the star riddled air the hermit was chanting as he ran on top of it like a boulder…
Then suddenly, the Fortune Teller saw the hole the swordsman made and with a light chuckle saw the best time to kick the giant dice block downward, making it crash onto the magical glass floor of the roulette arena cracking it a bit but showing off the predetermined result, a simple 4.
"And that will trigger Crimson Blade's positive effect – Allowing me to draw 2 cards." Jasmine confidently stated further as she drew the top two cards from her deck, and then looked towards Syrus…
"You're not out of this duel yet, are you? Show me what you got in store now, I really want to know!" She exclaimed with an excited smile, sliding two cards from her hand into her Spell and Trap Zone. "I set these two cards face-down and end my turn."
Turn 5
S: 2600 LP
J: 3400 LP
"Ok, Syrus. We got this far together; And quite the field we need to traverse…" Dee spoke challengingly yet calmly to help keep Syrus centered. "But we're not out of options, are we? Got anything else in that toolbox of a deck of yours."
'Hopefully, a good one…' Syrus thought as he took a deep breath, his fingers about to draw out his next card.
"My turn! I draw!" He saw the card he drew, as he stared at the Spell Card in his hand. 'Card of Adversity…'
(A) Card of Adversity - Normal Spell
If only your opponent controls a monster, including a Special Summoned monster: Draw 2 cards
"Syrus, that just may be the card we need to break this stalemate. It could give you the resources needed to turn this duel around…" Dee spoke as she read the card. However, a weary Syrus had a reason to be cautious about activating the field…
'The problem is her Field Spell… You saw what happened when I tried Polymerization? If I activate this card, we'll be forced to roll a dice. And if I get a lower number than Jasmine, she'll get to draw the 2 cards and maybe overwhelm us with one of her stronger monsters.'
"That's exactly why you've got to take that risk." Dee spoke, her tone suddenly serious to give the push her apprentice needed. "Syrus… We've lasted this long and Jasmine's luck is starting to flag enough for her to need shortcuts to get ahead. We're nearly at a breakthrough, we just need a good push. I believe in you but you need to believe in yourself, because I know you're brave enough to step up."
Syrus' moment of hesitation was notably shorter than usual as steeled himself for what may come – It was All-or-Nothing now…
"Alright, I'll activate the Spell Card, Card of Adversity!" Syrus exclaims as he puts the card on his disk. "Since you control monsters and I don't, I can draw 2 cards!"
Due to Syrus' Spell Card not meeting the requirements of the Field Spell, the increasingly annoying police sirens blared off, accompanied by the vacuum sucking up the Spell Card and put into a jar to be released to the victorious…
"Syrus, Syrus, Syrus… Jaden seems to be a bad influence on you, wouldn't you think?" Jasmine tauntingly questions, shaking her head in bemusement, as her hands were on her hips. "Your Spell Card doesn't have a dice roll as a part of its activation, Minefield of Fortune will force us to gamble for who gets your Spell's effect. Do you want more of a disadvantage, or something more decisive?"
Two holographic dice materialized in front of both duelists, glowing alight with energy. Syrus catching his blue dice, his hands trembling slightly in nervousness; While Jasmine had a grin on her face, holding onto her red dice.
"... I can't take back my past mistakes. Just need to act." The Slifer Red muttered to himself, studying the dice in his hand, a tenseness washing over him in the moment. He then blew on it for good luck and to relieve tension before cupping it in both hands; He spun it with deliberate focus, letting the dice roll within his palms.
"Oh, I see…" Jasmine thought aloud, noticing the copied technique her last time she rolled her dice, her eyes softening yet her expression remained mischievous. "So that's how you wanna play it, eh? Well, if you're that serious about this, let's see who fate favors!" She mimicked Syrus' move, blowing on her dice and spinning it in her hands.
"But just so you know, Sy—I don't plan on losing!"
"Likewise!" Syrus spoke back, his voice growing more resolute. "It is just as you said before… It's all about trust and bravery. I can't back down now from thinking too much, so I'm believing in myself. And I NEED to take a stand!"
"DICE ROLL GO!" The two duelists locked eyes, their resolve clear; Before throwing their dice simultaneously – The two glowing cubes clashed mid-air, spinning wildly as they landed on the massive holographic roulette. The crowd gasped, watching as the dice blocks settled and the results were…
Syrus' Die: 6
Jasmine's Die: 5
"N… No way. I won… again?" Syrus blinks as the holographic announcer declares the blue dice the victor of this gamble. "I actually did it! ALRIGHT!" As he couldn't help but cheer to himself as a great portion of the crowd, predominantly those in Red and Yellow buzzing about with a high amount of cheers for the Slifer's perseverance leading to him finally getting to play his Spell Card…
"Yes you did it, Syrus!" Dee cheered alongside her apprentice clapped merrily as a wave of relief washed over them both. "I told you just needed to believe in yourself to overcome the odds."
Meanwhile, Jasmine didn't mind the ill fated result… she was actually smiling at her opponent, her respect for him growing for not giving into the pressure.
"Congrats, Sy. Looks like you're the bolder gambler this time – Go ahead, draw your two cards and let's see what you'll do next."
The glass jar was brought back to Syrus, where Syrus took his Spell Card out of the jar and activated it once again.
"Ok then, I'll activate Card of Adversity's effect – I get to Draw 2 cards!" Syrus picked up the top two cards of his deck, a smirk quickly appearing. "It looks like this card I just drew will make things way easier… But first things first, I activate my Field Spell, Megaroid City!"
Syrus placed his Field Spell in his disk – The entire arena began to shift and ripple with power as the holographic systems worked to generate a massive, sprawling cityscape a bit similar to the Elemental Heroes' city of residence. Towering skyscrapers adorned with neon lights forming a mechanical metropolis, with Roid-themed neon signs flashing across the virtual star-filled skyline. Highways looping around throughout the entire city, and a notably loud hum of engines filled the air. The giant roulette wheel still in the middle of the arena shimmering like a star between the two duelists, blending seamlessly into the cityscape as it hovered.
"So, you've turned this place into Las Vegas? It's pretty snazzy looking I've got to admit, the mix of my roulette and your city just looks awesome." Jasmine warmly compliments but then quickly turns her grin mischievous. "… Just a reminder that Minefield of Fortune is still active during your turn, if you mean to activate your Trap Card, you'll have to gamble again, gotcha? Call it even for the Buldroid you warned me about, so be careful about your next play."
"Thanks Jasmine, but I have a plan to handle that; Your Field Spell's rules are the main obstacle. So I was hoping I drew this Spell Card, Magical Distortion!
(FM) Magical Distortion - Normal Spell
Target 1 face-up Spell you control and 1 face-up Spell/Trap your opponent controls; negate the effects of both targeted cards until the end of this turn.
"Thanks to this Spell, I can temporarily cancel my Megaroid Cyberium's effects, to negate Minefield of Fortune's rule until the end of this turn!" A pulse of magical energy akin to an EMP rippled through the field, causing the two Field Spells' to temporarily blackout. Jasmine's eyes widened, legitimate surprise on her face at the card's effect.
"So… You did have a back-up plan to prevent me from overwhelming you, not bad, not bad at all Syrus!"
Aside from Jasmine, another girl was impressed by Syrus in this duel. Dee had stars in her eyes as well for seeing Syrus slowly take the rhythm of the duel from the Redhead and into his own hands, with a little help from her cards.
"Go, Syrus! Let's press the advantage!"
"I'm not stopping here… Now that my Megaroid Cyberium has its effects negated, it's the perfect target to activate my Megaroid City's effect; By destroying it, I can add another 'roid' card from my deck!"
A powerful surge of energy emanated from Syrus' Field Spell, and his Cyberium Machine shattered into fragments and shrapnel; While Syrus picked up a certain card from his deck to add it to his hand…
"This card won't stay in my hand this time… Since your Minefield of Fortune has its effects canceled, I can now activate my Trap Card Roid Reinforcement!"
(A) Roid Reinforcement - Normal Trap
Discard any number of cards from your hand to the Graveyard, then target a number of 'roid' monsters from your Graveyard equal to the number of cards you discarded; add them to your hand.
"Thanks to this Trap, I'm allowed to discard two cards from my hand, in order to add two Roid monsters from my Graveyard." Syrus explained his Trap while discarding and adding two certain cards to his hand; but then flipped yet his last set card.
"... Since my Life Point seems to be too low for comfort, I chain my Quick-Play Spell, Emergency Provisions – By sending my Roid Reinforcement, and my Field Spell, Megaroid City to the Graveyard, I'll gain 2000 Life Points!"
Suddenly, the Trap Card that Syrus activated in his field had quickly shattered into green fragments along with his futuristic city, the surroundings morphing back into the intergalactic casino kingdom as a massive amount of jade-colored energy fragments swirled around the Slifer Red enveloping him in a billowing flame-like shroud of restorative biokinetic energy signifying his Life Points going up…
S: 2600 - 4600 LP
"Are you sure you wanted to do that, Sy?" Jasmine curiously asks the lone Slifer Red, who stood in his side of the field with only three cards in his hand; no longer having his Megaroid City or his Megaroid Cyberium to support him.
"No offense… As far as I can tell, you've been playing really well but defensively – Protecting yourself and your monsters; But the moment I decided to destroy your monster at the end of my turn, then you decide to take everything else off of your field… a bit reckless from what I've known of you to protect yourself, wouldn't you agree?"
"Jasmine Makurada…" Syrus spoke out more resolutely than he usually would've and used her full name out of gratitude and respect, while an honest smile bloomed onto his face, one almost unburdened by nerves or fear. "I appreciate your concern. But you can't judge my empty field yet, not now when I have assembled the pieces I've been waiting for, ever since the beginning of this duel."
"You 'assembled the pieces'? With only 3 cards in hand?" The Obelisk Girl quickly questioned, the urge to tease Syrus for his sentence quickly muted by a certain but familiar glint in his eyes that he knew what he was doing and Jasmine couldn't help but squirm silently yet excitedly in anticipation as a pleasurable chill shot through her spine.
"Oh, you're not playing around this time… Very well, I'll bite. Take the stage!"
"Oh I will! And you'll see that this type of Summoning is my favorite one! Turboroid, Strikeroid, and Stealthroid… Report for Duty!" Syrus announces, while revealing the three cards in his hand. The three flying Roid monsters were enveloped in sparking spheres of intensely bright electrical energy; The lightshow getting impressed looks from Jasmine, Dee floating next to him, and even Syrus' friends spectating in their sitting spot.
"Solid Formation, Start! Roids to your stations, Protocol: Alpha Assembly, Commence!" Syrus commands with surprising authority akin to a military general forgoing the usual chanting, and with this demand the three battle roids thanks to the surrounding electrical energy sparking about around them gave the boost needed to combine into a mechanical giant with ease and very outwardly excited at the chance to show off how strong they truly are to the crowd as they with flash of Red, Black, and Jade bursts of electrical energy shot high above the arena to start their transformation.
"Await further orders, Solidroid Alpha!" Syrus placed the Fusion Monster Card on the disk as a result of their Configurative Combination…
Turboroid took the lead, eagerly twisting and rearranging into a propulsion system and a colossal grey-white body; Strikeroid going second excitedly connecting itself at the top, forming the red torso and the giant mechanical arms; And finally, Stealthroid with a huff of pride splits apart, its stealth armor plating and sharp-edged wings quickly separating and reattaching itself on the large crimson mecha's backside. With the assembly completed, the yellow-visor eyed Solidroid eagerly but dutifully descended as sparks of volatile yellow-tinted energy danced about its body. The black smoke billowing about its form thanks to the exhaust fumes from its jet boots being active and consequently making its debut a surprisingly intimidating one as a holographic red warning sign manifested flashing towards Jasmine's direction with an accompanying warning siren blaring off. (ATK 2600/DEF 1800)
(A) Solidroid Alpha - Fusion/EARTH/Machine/Lv 7/ATK 2600/DEF 1800
"Turboroid" "Strikeroid" "Stealthroid"
You can also Special Summon this card (from your Extra Deck) by sending the above cards from your hand to the GY (You do not use "Polymerization").
When this card is Summoned: It gains ATK equal to the original ATK of 1 face-up monster your opponent controls until the End Phase.
"Solid Formation… Wow, I haven't fought against that yet? It looks so cool!" Jasmine cheers with an eager grin mostly undeterred. "Wonder what it's Special Effect?"
"Well, it's a good one!" Syrus answers with a serious but proud smile on his face. "Until the End Phase of the turn my Solidroid Alpha was summoned, it gains the attack power of one of your monsters and adds it to its own! And I'll choose your Crimson Blade of Landstar with 2400 Attack! 'Engage: Vitality Rebound'!"
The crimson robot's visor immediately started to grow bright with channeled energy as it let loose charged up yellow rings of energy aimed at Landstar's Champion engulfing the surprised swordsman in a yellow barrier of energy for a moment to have their essence be analyzed and copied to be immediately installed into the Giant Mecha's battle routine as the scan continued. And when it was completed, the Solidroid took a stance similar to the targeted warrior as a proportionally large broadsword composed of emerald-tinted plasma energy was in the mecha's grip.
The audience watched in awe as the Mecha's artificial aura of plasma was both greatly intensified yet refined to signify the machine's rapid rise in Attack Points: 2600... 3000... 4000... 5000!
Solidroid Alpha (ATK 2600 - 5000/DEF 1800)
"Now that's… a t-tonka tough Monster!" Jasmine couldn't help but say dumbly in response to the monster's boost in power and change in demeanor. The redhead feeling somewhat in awe of the dutiful battle droid given the back to back light shows it was responsible for. But she was too curious and eager to find out what bed she had metaphorically made to lay in to fold now as she shook off her creeping trepidation.
"But I'm not too worried about one monster on your field, Sy. You've gotta do better than that…"
"Alpha is only the beginning! The leader of this group has their own set of comrades to support him as well." Syrus tensely states with a smile, revealing the same three roid monsters in his grave slot. "I banish my Stealthroid, Strikeroid and Turboroid from my Graveyard! You're UP now!"
"The… Graveyard?" Dee muttered to herself shocked; As if seeing her apprentice's first Combination monster didn't impress her already. What more did Syrus want to reveal to her?
"Oh, I got to see your insurance policy better than most!" Jasmine joked aloud before stopping dead thanks to the timely arrival From the Syrus' Graveyard creating a sparking portal, where the three flying machines responded to Syrus's command and were enveloped in energy; Their spirits igniting in a synchronized pulse of black, red, and green energy.
"Solid Formation, Start! Roids once again to your stations, Protocol: Blending Beta, Commence! Await your orders, Solidroid Beta!"
It was Stealthroid's time to take the lead, locking into place as the robot's core and the black wings flaring; Strikeroid quickly snaps onto the left side, forming the modular appendages; And Turboroid integrates into the right side, shifting into the thrusters for enhanced mobility. When the assembly was complete, the new Mecha stood tall and resolute. The sleek armor plating is a smooth mix of metallic silver, navy blue, and cyan. The helmet-like headpiece adorned with reinforced black visors, the sides equipped with antennae accompanied with a low hum as if constantly analyzing the battlefield. The abdomen's core gleaming bright as the thrusters on the legs slowed it's descend downard to the field, the shroud of white steam giving a more serene yet eerie appearance (ATK 2500/DEF 1900)
(A) Solidroid Beta - Fusion/DARK/Machine/Lv 7/ATK 2500/DEF 1900
"Stealthroid" "Strikeroid" "Turboroid"
You can also Special Summon this card (from your Extra Deck) by banishing the above cards in your GY.
When this card is Summoned: Destroy 1 monster your opponent controls.
"Just like Alpha, Solidroid Beta has an effect when it's summoned – It allows me to destroy 1 monster on your field, Jasmine!" Syrus pressed on with more adrenaline than tact as he quickly pointed at her Hero of Fortune. "First comes strength, then comes stealth. Now Crimson Blade will become Crimson Dust!"
"O-oh dear…" Jasmine surprisingly whimpered despite herself to her shock due to Syrus of all people managing make her feel weak in the knees and afraid for only a moment with that last line, as a mechanical hum filled the air, Solidroid Beta's targeting systems locked onto her grimace Fusion Monster, a series of red crosshairs appear in the air, immediately zeroing in on Jasmine's grimacing prized monster.
"Solid Beta! 'Commence Bombardment: Gatling Plasma Cannons'" Syrus quickly demands with heat in his voice, the mecha unleashing an unrelenting barrage of devastating laserfire from its mounted cannons littered throughout its body; The wall of sharp plasmafire painfully engulfed the Crimson Blade in a myriad of directions, the onslaught akin to being scaldingly impaled with a massive amount of branding irons brutally burning them to ash and cinder to be carried away by the recoil of the blast.
The sound of the explosion echoes through the arena as Jasmine gasps in disbelief.
'… Wow, so my little student was hiding a lot from me.' Dee thought to herself as she gave a enthused whistle at the strong attack and took a look towards her apprentice's field, not noticing the little hum coming from Syrus. Her curiosity further peaked wondering how far he could go from this spot. "Anything else you've been hiding from your cute mentor?"
'S… Sorry, Dee. I forgot you were next to me.' The Slifer Red thought he felt the adrenaline lessen for a moment, just long enough for his cheeks to suddenly blush from embarrassment from processing what he said to Jasmine and hiding this kind of strategy from his partner… it would probably be best to explain his method from the very beginning soon… but how?
'U-Uhm, what do you think of my turn so far?' Syrus asks, attempting to calm himself down from his latest offensive, while the two Landstars in Jasmine field stood agape in shock at how brutal the destruction of their ally was, especially contrasted with how nervous the wielder usually was. The crusader reluctantly readying himself for another skirmish and the Guardsmen trembling in fear but standing his ground.
"Me? Do I really have to answer that question, my little engineer? It's certainly more than I had expected from you, sweetie." Dee points out, while pointing at the two Solidroids. "Didn't think you were up to this kind of plan in the beginning… using your monsters in your hand, and then banishing them from your graveyard. Did you come up with that idea by yourself? Or was my little bro's Miracle Fusion that inspirational?"
'W… Well, I could say both. But… There's one more Solidroid monster in my arsenal that I can summon. I just don't know if it's the right time to do so.' Syrus mutters to himself as he scratches his head in thought, not noticing the two gigantic robots in front had a look of bemused irritation; The boy had a habit of thinking too much, but it seemed to be even worse with his new mentor's company.
"C'mon now, Sy. The crowd's loving it, and we're really mixing our cards in ways I never expected to work so well together! Don't make them wait, go full throttle, dang it! Show them all that Passion of yours!"
"... Ok, Got it!" Syrus smiles, noticing Jasmine' attention towards him.
"Done thinking out loud now?" she asks a bit impatiently as she regains her composure and puffing up her chest in haughty eagerness, however she couldn't help notice a familiar naming scheme Syrus' current line up of monsters had on them.
"Alpha, Beta… if I remember correctly, the King of Games and many machine duelists were really fond of a certain monster. What was the name again? If I recall right they were the pieces to combine into the… the monster Valkyrion, The Magna Warrior! Would that mean…"
"So you've come to that conclusion as well! Don't worry, you're about to see it in no time!" Syrus responds, positively surprising his opponent; The redhead savoring how much she got Syrus to spread his wings but also wondering how the 3rd Solidroid would play into the manners at hand.
"But your 3 roid monsters are currently removed from play! There's no way you can get them back, in any way possible!"
"There is one way…" He pointed out, as he picked out a certain Continuous and Field Spell from his grave slot. "My Megaroid Cyberium is a special resource in my deck. It reinforces my field when a monster is destroyed, but when it's in my graveyard alongside Megaroid City, it allows me to activate its second effect!" Syrus explains, while getting a little hum in response.
"As expected from machine spells, always recyclable. Would you be kind enough to tell me the rest of its effect, then?"
"Gladly! By removing both Spells from my Graveyard, Cyberium's effect allows me to Summon 3 Roid monsters that share the same Level that are currently removed from play!" Syrus picked out three familiar Monster Cards and placed them on his duel disk.
"I Special Summon Strikeroid, Stealthroid and Turboroid!" The three flying cartoon vehicles stood on the right side of the two Solid machines, proud mechanical hums coming from the three of them at the sight of their grand works. (ATK 1600/DEF 400); (ATK 1200/DEF 0); (ATK 1400/DEF 1800)
"Ah… I get it now!" Jasmine snaps her fingers due to noticing how the 3rd Solid would make its appearance. "There was a scheme behind that Solid Formation of yours. Alpha uses monsters in your hand, Beta uses your Graveyard. So that means, it will appear using your field?"
"I'm glad you realize it now, but you did it a moment too late! Because I'll now combine them together, to summon the mightiest Solidroid! Strike, Stealth, Turbo; One more time!" The three machines responded with an synchronized pulse of green, black, and red energy, splitting their pieces apart and combining themselves together high above the arena once more.
"'Solid Formation, Start! Roar your engines, once again! Protocol: Getter Gamma, Commence! Combine into Solidroid Gamma!" Syrus commands once more, as the trio of flying machines combine into one of their strongest units…
Strikeroid takes the lead to form the central structure in this occasion, becoming the solid foundation; Stealthroid uses its enhanced stealth armor plating to form a shield-like frame around the head and the lower body; And Turboroid splits into sleek segments, fusing into the arms and the hugely weaponized turbofans attached around its shoulders, for unmatched agility. A gangly yet lean green whirling fighting machine contained in a sphere of sparking radioactive aerokinetic energy. And said sphere dispersed in short order, forgoing the fanfare to get to the business at hand. (ATK 2700/DEF 2000)
(A) Solidroid Gamma- Fusion/WIND/Machine/Lv 7/ATK 2700/DEF 2000
"Strikeroid" "Stealthroid" "Turboroid"
You can also Special Summon this card (from your Extra Deck) by banishing the above cards you control.
When this card is Summoned: Destroy all Set cards your opponent controls.
The tension in the air is palpable as Syrus stood tall, his field well fortified with the presence of three giant mecha who were formed by the same trio of flying machines in the Slifer Red's control three times in a row. Showing the colors of Red for Alpha, Blue for Beta, and Green for Gamma, the brotherhood is clear for all to see of the three mecha men.
Jasmine couldn't help but feel another particularly strong surge of warmth running through her chest, oddly enough this showcase of Syrus' potential also threatened to cause her to nearly moan in pleasure at how dominant Syrus was being and how far he was pushing her in this situation.
"I regret nothing~ I'm so glad we got to duel this fiercely, Syrus Truesdale."
"Jasmine, don't get sentimental now that we've come this far…" Syrus responds respectfully, but he could tell she truly meant those words. He then shook his head to refocus and take a serious step forward with his next move.
"I activate Solidroid Gamma's effect – When Summoned, it destroys all Set cards you control. 'Commence Bombardment: Gamma Cyclone'!"
"Wait, what!?" Jasmine exclaims, the explanation of the effect snapping her out of a pleasurable excitement and fear-induced stupor that brought her attention back duel and by extension to the incoming emerald-tinted double hurricane blast from Gamma's turbines cannons about to destroy the two set cards in Jasmine's Spell/Trap Zone.
"… You nearly got me! I chain my Trap Card, Star-Crossed Counter!"
While one of Jasmine's set cards got destroyed, the hologram of her other card flipped up and illuminated her general vicinity – A nearby cluster of stars above the Golden Land of Fortune began to shift. As the stars rearranged into the Andromeda constellation. Lucky Fortune, the Legendary Stellar Sword being wielded by Gallant Guardsman, and her Field Spell began to dematerialize into stardust.
(FM) Star-Crossed Counter - Normal Trap
Send as many face-up Spell/Trap cards you control to the Graveyard, and if you do, Special Summon 1 Warrior monster in your GY.
During your opponent's Battle Phase (Quick Effect): You can banish this card from your GY; this turn, if you take battle damage from an attack involving a Warrior monster, the damage is halved.
"With this Trap Card, I'm allowed to sell as many Spells and Traps that are face-up on my field, in order to Special Summon a Warrior monster in my Graveyard!" Jasmine declared, receiving a shocked look from her opponent.
"Wait… your Trap card doesn't have a Coin Toss!? Did you mix it up with the other Traps with Coin Tosses, expecting your Minefield to be cancelled from effects?"
"Well aside from your Magical Distortion 'Trap', I've decided it was the perfect time to switch gears since parts of my second phase in my deck are starting to appear. You also got rid of your Megaroid City as payment for your Emergency Provisions' effect, right? This is where the real fun begins, once my Minefield of Fortune, together with Lucky Chance and Legendary Stellar Sword are kicked out of the field…"
Jasmine was somewhat sad to sell off her Field Spell to make the trap work as intended as the crowd witnessed the intergalactic casino kingdom ripple back into the duel arena, disappearing alongside the giant roulette, and the magical glove hands holding the golden coin waving goodbye.
The sparkling sword in the Guardsmen's Hand disintegrating along with them, making him feel greatly unprotected while trembling even more in front of Syrus' colossal Machines (ATK 2000 - 1000/DEF 1200)
The fine red dress that Jasmine was clad in quickly de-morphed back into her Obelisk Blue student attire, to the disappointment of herself and many of the boys who were having very inappropriate thoughts about the auburn-haired girl.
… Who was partially aware but paid no heed, while finishing to explain the rest of her card effect.
"It was all fun and games but now this is where I really throw down. With Star-Cross Counter's effect, I'll Special Summon back my Crimson Blade of Landstar in Defense Mode!" Jasmine picked up her fallen Fusion Monster out of the Graveyard and placed it right back on her disk; The Hero of Fortune reemerged, standing tall and wielding his shining shield in a defensive stance to protect his host and fellow comrades. (ATK 2400/DEF 2200)
"See, Syrus? We're back at 3-against-3, as if nothing was lost on my field." Jasmine teasingly taunts. "Plus, my Hero of Fortune is in Defense Mode, and none of your monsters don't seem to have piercing effects, correct? I'm still in it to win it!"
"I may have to disagree…" Syrus politely retorts, while looking at the formidable monsters in Jasmine's field "While it's true that you have your monster protecting you from battle damage, the same doesn't apply to your Gallant Guardsman and Ebony Crusader that are in Attack Mode. If I attack your monsters with my Alpha and Gamma, I win the Duel!"
"Is that so? Hmm… 5000 minus 2100 is 2900, and 2700 minus 1000 is 1700. In Total, the Battle Damage would be… 4600. And I have 3400, correct?" Jasmine hummed to herself, her cat-like grin never leaving her face despite the seeming turnaround and decided to be dramatically coy about this situation.
"Well phooey, didn't expect to get boxed up like this, Sy. You just love to see me in tight corners, don't you? Well I'm wedged in real tight, and the big bad rebel red has me vulnerable, and oh so helpless~. So c'mon, first come and first serve. Come and claim your prize… if you dare."
'She… Jasmine is hiding something from me.' Syrus thought with a concerned look on his blushing face at the redhead's sultry theatrics while telepathically conversing with his mentor. 'She knows that her Life Points are about to fall to zero from my final attacks, but she's not afraid of the consequences… What do you think, Dee?'
"Well, I'm no mind reader. We are in a skirmish where 3 of your mechas have her dead to rights, and she doesn't have any cards to protect herself in the Battle Phase now… Just be ready for anything."
'Gotcha…' Syrus sighed and refocused on his redheaded opponent. "I'll find out what you're hiding from me, Jasmine; As I'll start my battle phase! Solidroid Alpha, Attack Ebony Crusader of Landstar! Fire: 'SHINING SOLID BEAM'!"
The Leader Mecha of Syrus' field charged its chestplate, channeling radiant emerald energy. The energy broadsword being sheathed in exchange for twin arm cannons that extended forward and let loose dense beams of intense shimmering emerald light towards the crusader. But just as the beams were about to hit, Jasmine had a response…
"I'm afraid your Megaroid Cyberium isn't the only card that has an effect in the Graveyard, Syrus." Jasmine retorts as she picks up a familiar Trap Card from her Grave slot. "My Star-Crossed Counter has an additional effect – By banishing it from my Graveyard, all damage I take from battles involving my Warrior monsters is halved this turn!"
The constellation from earlier reappeared briefly above Jasmine, forming a cosmic barrier of starlight around her. Syrus's Solidroid Alpha then obliterated her Ebony Crusader of Landstar in a brilliant explosion of light; But when the attack connected, the barrier shimmered and absorbed a portion of the destructive force, cutting the damage in half. Jasmine shields herself as the force from the powerful attack nearly sweeps her off her feet, but when the smoke cleared, she remained standing with a defiant but satisfied smirk.
J: 3400 - 1950 LP
"... So that's what you were hiding, although you were being too forward about it." Syrus grins, but could feel his heart beating fast. That meant the duel wasn't over, and Jasmine would have yet another turn to possibly get her victory.
"I told you, my little engineering cuddlebug – I've decided to switch gears for the second phase of this duel, so let's not keep ourselves waiting, shall we. Go on! Strike me down harder!" Jasmine dares the Slifer Red, excitedly extending her arms wide open, as if she was expecting Syrus to give it everything he's got.
"I would call you insane, if I wasn't being nice, Jasmine. But you're right! Solidroid Gamma! Do what she wants and destroy her Gallant Guardsman of Landstar! Fire: 'SPARKING SOLID HURRICANE'!"
His Solidroid Gamma crouched, the weaponized turbofans on its shoulders beginning to whir to life with sparking nuclear energy. A low, thunderous hum filled the air as the fans gradually spun faster and faster, forming two miniature but strong cyclones ready for launch. The columns of energy augmented wind were then let loose, tearing across the arena in synchronized arcs, the spiraling whirlwind crackling with radioactive electrical energy primed to pulverize into the defending Gallant Guardsman, engulfing it in the radioactive tempest.
"Thanks to my Star-Crossed Counter effect, the Battle Damage I'll take will be cut in half!" Jasmine quickly states with a fun-loving smile, as the emerald-tinted cyclones tore through her destroyed monster and resultant whirlwind washing over her and the electricity-augmented wind feeling like a forceful but pleasurable buzz all over her body.
"Ahh~... This… feels… so hot… so good~." The redhead couldn't help but quietly moan in pleasure at the electrifying sensation and how surprisingly yet positively commanding Syrus was being, blushing a bit when the onslaught was finished.
J: 1900 - 1100 LP
Last but not least, time has come for Jasmine's last line of defense to get struck down thanks to Syrus' mightiest mecha robot.
"Alright, Solidroid Beta; Let's wrap this up! Attack her Crimson Blade of Landstar! Activate: Precision Mode!" Syrus orders, making his green armored robot shift its mechanical arms into thin energy blades in contrast to Alpha's energy broadsword. The construct humming with power, the light shining an intense crimson as they locked onto the target. With swift and calculated movements, Beta dashed forward at lightning speed, slicing through the air with its twin energy blades.
"Now Go! 'Engage: SHINING SOLID CUTTER'!" Syrus commands and Solidroid Beta with ease unleashes a cross-slash, the two luminous energy blades forming a "X" in midair before crashing into the defending Crimson Blade of Landstar. The swordsman met the ill fated challenge head-on meeting the mecha's slash with one of his own, to poor results with the Landstar champion being cut in half to signify the Mecha's victory.
Although her last monster was completely destroyed and her field was now empty, Jasmine with a heavy breath still maintained her composure, kept on smiling cheerfully to Syrus. Almost too cheerfully towards her opponent; Whose Life Points were in the lead, and had three High-Powered Mecha Machines on his side of the field.
But the Slifer Red student just could feel something huge coming in Jasmine's next turn… Who looks like she has no cards. Not in her hand, neither her Monster Zone, nor her Spell/Trap Zone. And yet she still was calm and collected despite the heavy breath she was taking, even humming and licking her lips, and appreciating every single second spent dueling him.
'She's absolutely enjoying this… As if she forgot that we're still in an Exam Duel.' Syrus thought to himself, while Dee was listening to his thoughts. 'How can she and Jaden feel so free with this pressure weighing down on them.'
"What can I say? Jasmine's Burning Passion is proving to be a rather tough nut to crack." Dee spoke casually while studying the auburn-haired girl's behavior. "Yes, this is an important duel we're having at the moment… But what does Jasmine see in this duel she has with you? The thing that makes her take the long way round in showing off to you. I can't help but wonder, do we have anything after throwing out the Giant Robots?"
'That's the thing… I'm out of power. I used all my resources to Summon my Solidroids, expecting it would be enough to finish the duel… but Jasmine still stands and if things go wild, there's one card that can save me maybe but…'
Syrus couldn't help but groan anxiously trying to think his next plan through best he could, not even trying to predict what other skeletons Jasmine had in her closet due to her forewarning of tossing her previous stratagem out the window. That "Second Phase" part of her declaration had the Slifer Student feeling greatly trepidation of the next turn. Taking into account her exceptional performance with Gerald, he had a sinking feeling in his gut of what card she was about to pull out soon. And he was not confident that he would overcome it even with help.
"You called me amazing before, Jasmine. But I should be the one impressed; I threw everything I could at you and you're still smiling." The boy respectfully states, the joviality in his face lessening in exchange for focus as it sunk in for the Slifer Red that their duel was shifting into the finale and Jasmine will take off the kid gloves soon, a bead of fear-induced sweat slid down Syrus' face knowing fully well what his opponent was capable of when serious.
"During my End Phase, Solidroid Alpha returns back to its original Attack Points; I end my turn!"
Solidroid Alpha (ATK 5000 - 2600/DEF 1800)
"Why thank you for the compliment and it's rather polite of you to lend me a rope in your offensive. I can now activate a certain card from my graveyard." Jasmine responds playfully, while picking out a card from her slot and leaving Syrus shocked from his spot. "Remember when you activated your Solidroid Gamma's effect to destroy all my Set cards? Well, it's truly gentlemanly of you to fall right into a lady's Trap like that, it's time for a Showdown: Bluff Call edition!"
(FM) Showdown: Bluff Call - Normal Trap
During the End Phase, if this card is in the GY because it was destroyed and sent there this turn: Add 2 Level 8 or lower "Royal Flush" monsters with different names from your Deck to your hand.
"Your Wonder Garage isn't the only Trap that has an effect when it's destroyed. During the end of your Turn, my Bluff Call's effect will allow me to add 2 monsters from my Deck!" Jasmine explained with a playful tone, while adding 2 specific cards from her Deck to her hand. One eyebrow raised and a quiet giggle coming from her lips made Syrus gulp nervously, cautiously wondering what would be so special about the cards that Jasmine added to her hand.
Something big was about to be let loose…
Turn 6
S: 4600 LP
J: 1100 LP
"Well then, we've nearing the Climax of this duel, Syrus. And it's time for your hostess with the mostest to take her spotlight again. Ahem…" Jasmine states before coughed softly at the end to put on her best gameshow hostess voice, and then lifted the arm that didn't have the duel disk up in the air.
"For the Ladies and Gentlemen spectating… Thank you so much for tuning in for our exam so far, I'm surprised we got so many prying eyes for a duel between dorms. But it seems that our honorable Landstar warriors weren't able to withstand the sheer force of Syrus' Solidroid monsters. Suppose I got too careless after Gerald's defeat. Oh well, one turnaround won't kill me."
Her carefree words, from an Elite Student from Obelisk Blue of all people and the same one who defeated the "Berserker" Gerald no less, gave enough ease for all of the reds crowd to now fully support the Obelisk Blue, who had a clear but eager smile of confidence on her face, as she placed her fingers on the top of her deck.
"Here we go, my little cuddlebug. It's my turn, DRAW!" Jasmine drew her card, and grinned when she saw it. "What a turnaround, folks; I got the jackpot! It's time to raise the stakes with this Spell Card; Showdown: Card of High Noon!"
(FM) Showdown: Card of High Noon - Normal Spell
Reveal 2 Level 5 or High Warrior Monsters in your hand, and if you do, add 1 "Royal Flush" monster and 1 "Showdown" Spell/Trap from your Deck to your hand.
"I'll now reveal to you the cards I added from my Bluff Call last turn – Jack of Clubs and King of Diamonds. Two heavyweights, perfect for a high-stakes game like this; And with Card of High Noon, I'm allowed to add another Royal Flush monster and a Showdown card from my deck." Jasmine explained, while picking two more cards from her deck to her hand.
"But why stop there? I'm not here to hide my hand now, am I? It's time to activate my Spell Card, Showdown: Sparring Pair!" Jasmine continued as she put another Spell Card on her disk, the hologram of her card quickly manifesting and then went aglow with golden light upon activation, and then the auburn-haired girl's other cards started to glow as well.
(FM) Showdown: Sparring Pair - Normal Spell
Reveal as many "Royal Flush" monsters in your hand; your opponent randomly chooses 1 card from your entire hand. If the chosen card is a "Royal Flush" monster, Special Summon it; if the chosen card was "Royal Flush Joker", you also draw 1 card. If the chosen card is not a "Royal Flush" monster, send it to the GY and place this card on the top of the Deck.
"With this Spell Card, I reveal my whole hand to you, Syrus Truesdale, and you'll have the honor to randomly pick a card from it. Whichever card you'll pick, I get to Special Summon it to my side of the field." Jasmine revealed the holograms of the two Monster Cards Syrus knew Jasmine had, but also the new one – Ace of Spades.
"For your information, my Ace of Spades was added onto my hand thanks to the Card of High Noon's effect. Now… let's not keep the crowd waiting, my teal-haired cutie!"
The three hologram cards suddenly revealed their reverse side to Syrus' vision; In magically augmented high speed, they started to quickly shuffle into formation. As the befuddling shuffling sped up the red student and his mentor quickly lost track of where her Spade card was. So when the shuffling came to a quick end. Choosing the correct card was a troubling affair for the duo.
"Well this is the pits, wouldn't you agree, Sy?" Dee grunts out with a pout from beside Syrus, not knowing which card to choose. "It's the Minefield of Fortune effect all over again, I thought we were out of the casino."
'I guess… there's no point in overthinking now just need to act. It's a 66 percent chance in our favor, against Jasmine's 33 percent chance. And whichever I'll pick, Jasmine will play it… Which will bring another game of chance later. Will it be another Landstar assault?'
Syrus quickly shook his head to put off those concerns, and focused more on the three hidden cards Jasmine had prepared for him.
"Each card is like a door for me to choose. The middle would be too obvious, so… I'll pick the card on the Right; My Right."
"Ah… So you mean the Left one for me. Very well, let's reveal it!" Jasmine snapped her fingers, and the face of the card started flipping slowly for everyone to look at… and to Syrus' misfortune…
"You're the gift that keeps on giving, Sy. I Special Summon my Ace of Spades!" Jasmine placed her card on the disk; And on her field, manifesting with a burst of spectral energy.
A tall, stoic, and old looking bishop adorned in black ceremonial robes with spades as the primary theme littered about all over his attire. The old bishop was eerily silent but yet exuded a tense air of authority, his piercing eyes were aglow with a faint jade, hinting at his expertise with channeling the dearly departed and his blade held the restless souls of fallen knights bound to his Sword of the Fell. A ghastly green aura billowing around him, casually yet calmly emitting killing intent to their wielder's opponent to further pressure them. (ATK 2400/DEF 2000)
(FM) Ace of Spades - Effect/DARK/Warrior/Lv 8/ATK 2400/DEF 2000
(This card is treated as a "Royal Flush" card)
You can reveal 3 Warrior monsters in your hand to Special Summon this card from your hand. Once per turn, you can excavate the top 5 cards from your Deck and apply the appropriate effect based on the exact number of Warrior monsters you revealed:
- 1: Inflict 500 damage to your opponent;
- 2: Destroy 1 card on the field;
- 3 or more: Add 1 "Showdown" card from your Deck or GY to your hand. Then if you revealed a "Royal Flush" monster, you can Special Summon 1 of the revealed monster(s).
The deck is shuffled after its effect gets applied.
"My Ace of Spades will bring this duel to greater heights with his Special Ability - By revealing the top 5 cards from my deck, its effect will be applied depending on the number of revealed Warrior monsters."
"Is… that so? Is it related to the Landstar line of positive or negative effects?" Syrus pondered, and in response he got from Jasmine a silent but almost sinister smile that spoke volumes about what she had planned for the finale.
"Unfortunately for you, Syrus… My Royal Flush monsters don't share those penalty conditions – Their goal is to bring out the best of the cards, but embracing the Poker theme on the other hand that's their bread and butter. Now… what cards are on the table, oooooh~ Ace of Spades?"
By Jasmine's orders, the Bishop with an irritated grunt at his wielder's boisterous demand then revealed a small booklet concealed in his vest; As he opened it, the pages were then aglow with sapphire light, and five giant holograms of cards from the top of Jasmine deck…
Sasuke Samurai #4; Fearless Swordsman of Landstar; Gamble; Roll of Fate… Queen of Hearts.
"Alrighty then, three Warriors are at the top of my deck! That means my Ace of Spades activates the third condition – It allows me to add a Showdown card from my deck!" Jasmine quickly explained as she added a card to her hand, a surge to grin wide got revealed later on.
"By the way, it seems that I 'forgot' to mention there was another effect applied as well."
"Another one? How so…" Syrus asks, somehow thinking it was related to the last hologram of the card Jasmine revealed from her deck.
"I'm sure you'll love this one. Since I got to reveal to you a certain Royal Flush monster from my deck, Ace of Spades' additional effect will allow me to Special Summon it to my side of the field!" She picked the card and placed it on her disk. "Enthrall our Audience with your presence, Ohh~ Queen of Hearts!"
A surprisingly tall but yet amazonian-looking woman with an extremely well endowed hourglass figure and peach-like skin bearing an chillingly enchanting yet easygoing smile on her face serenely descended from on high, a barrier of miniature hearts dispersing; clad in lavish but form fitting heart-themed attire bearing a magical regality. Her tight gown is adorned by patterns of red and white roses with a golden trim. Her form fitting gown thankfully being roomy enough to fight in but tight enough to see her wide soft but strong tree trunk-like thighs and her blessedly heavily huge heart-shaped derriere. The top half of the gown having a ruby red heart symbol at the center of her chest above her supremely generous but perky bosom struggling to be contained by the magical gown. An expertly crafted wedding ring could be seen sparkling a golden light on her right hand.
Her piercing eyes sparkling a crystalline clear calm crimson ruby light, and her long ethereally flowing golden hair cascading over her shoulders, drawing attention to her serene angel-like face. A supernatural charm and a naturally high charisma brought about by years of experience ruling mixing together into a presence that captivates yet comforts any fortunate soul who gazed upon her, the Queen calmly wielded a scepter with a ruby-colored heart-shaped gem at the top but the staff itself was embroidered with predominantly ruby and golden diamonds, the finest jewelry those of the arcane sort can craft. The scepter aglow with a comforting but formidable fuschia light. (ATK 2200/DEF 1600)
(FM) Queen of Hearts - Effect/FIRE/Warrior/Lv 6/ATK 2200/DEF 1600
(This card is treated as a "Royal Flush" card)
You can Special Summon this card (from your hand) by Tributing 1 Warrior monster you control. Once per turn, you can draw the top 3 cards from your Deck and apply the appropriate effect based on the cards you revealed.
1 Warrior monster, 2 Spells/Traps: Gain 1000 LP and draw 1 card.
3 Spells/Traps: Shuffle 1 card your opponent controls.
3 Warrior monsters: Special Summon 1 "Royal Flush" monster from your Graveyard. If at least 1 of the revealed cards is a "Royal Flush" monster, you can add 1 "Showdown" card from your Graveyard to your hand.
The deck is shuffled after its effect gets applied
Almost the whole crowd of male and even the surprisingly high bit of the female students of different years started whistling and buzzing by the queen's lightshow of an entrance and more specifically her beauty; The boys who were enthusiastically appreciating Jasmine's red dress felt it was the sneak peek to this angel-like beauty.
"What a hottie! I'm loving this queen, step on me please!"
"Oh yeah dude...Wait What!?"
"Hey, it's Jessica Rabbit's ancestor."
"Take my heart! Take my soul!"
"Jesus Bloody Christ! Let me be her hubby for one night, I beg you Oh Lord My God!"
"Please just me out; She is married, look at the ring, have some standards man!"
"Never! Just look at the woman! Curvier than a girl from One Piece!"
"Think she's a K-cup or L-cup."
"Dude, not the time!"
"Look at the High Heels on that Lady!"
"The design for the dress is just perfect!"
"Hey Queenie, sit on me!"
Listening to alot of unsuitable at best and downright dirtily degenerate at worst comments from the peanut gallery made the queen feel a little bashful at the attention, wishing greatly that they could take in this sight of fine self with a bit more class. Syrus on the other hand was having a particularly hard time containing a blush he had on her face while looking at her – Feeling relief that her wielder's opponent was just more nervous then she was.
She gave a casual shrug with a comforting smile aimed to give some sense of ease to the Slifer Red and couldn't help but give a little hum at him yelping in response while looking the other way.
"Syrus… Stay focused!" Dee quickly chimed at her apprentice, trying to resist staring herself at the Queen of Hearts to not be charmed herself. "I know she's hot and bouncy… But stay strong! Control yourself!"
'S-Sorry, it's… a bit much.'
Then a giggling Jasmine interrupted Syrus' train of thought once more, the redheaded noticing how the boy's embarrassment could be an opportunity for her advantage.
"My Queen of Hearts is more than just beauty, Syrus. I'll activate her effect" By her request, the Ruby-eyed queen held her scepter aloft, the staff emitting a wave of hot pink-tinted photokinetic energy; At the same time, Jasmine's deck shone a radiant light once more. "I have to draw out the top 3 cards of my deck, and her effects will depend on the type of cards drawn…"
Three giant holograms of facedown cards appeared in the middle of the arena, a tense moment passed and they revealed themselves to be…
Star Blaster; Diced Die… Sinister Shadow of Landstar.
"Ok! A Spell, a Trap and a Warrior Monster! That activates her first effect – I'll gain 1000 Life Points, and it allows me to draw 1 card." Jasmine states as she quickly draws a card from her deck, while a billowing aura of soothing hot pink-colored energy enveloping her form thanks to her Queen's effect and feels herself relax a bit more.
J: 1100 - 2100 LP
"But the fun times won't end there, let's invite another guest to the party! Cause what's a Queen without the heir? Meet my Jack of Clubs!" Jasmine placed her card on the disk; And with a black flash appeared a strong but modest tophat wearing prince clad in light black armor littered with the club motif; Unassuming but yet Resolute, adorned with simple but refined attire signifying his nonchalance, but also wielding a Club Lance – a sturdy weapon designed for strength over decoration. (ATK 2100/DEF 1500)
(FM) Jack of Clubs - Effect/EARTH/Warrior/Lv 5/ATK 2100/DEF 1400
(This card is treated as a "Royal Flush" card)
If all monsters you control are Warrior monsters, you can Normal Summon this card without Tributing. Once per turn, you can shuffle 1 card from your hand into the deck, then draw 1 card and reveal it. Apply the appropriate effects based on the card you revealed:
- Warrior Monster: This card gains 300 ATK for each Warrior monster you control
- Spell: Add 1 "Showdown" Trap from your Deck to your hand
- Trap Card: Add 1 Level 5 or higher Warrior monster from your Deck to your hand.
"My Jack of Clubs can be Summoned without a sacrifice, if the other monsters on my side of the field are all Warriors! And to end the Royal Card Family Showcase, we mustn't forget their king – Since I control 2 or more Warrior monsters, this one can be Special Summoned from my hand. Your court needs you, King of Diamonds!"
Draped in an extravagant royal vest, on Jasmine's field with a golden diamond-shaped flash emerged a regal monarch understandably a fair bit shorter than his queen with hair that's a greyish blonde mix. Proud and commanding, his cape billowed about with embedded rubies shining bright, and his golden armor oddly enough being a bit muted with it's brightness; While wielding his infamous Diamond Blade, a sword forged with magically radiant gemstones, emitting an aura of dazzling light energy that can do more then just blind a foe. (ATK 2300/DEF 1800)
(FM) King of Diamonds - Effect/LIGHT/Warrior/Lv 7/ATK 2300/DEF 1800
(This card is treated as a "Royal Flush" card)
If you control 2 or more Warrior monsters: You can Special Summon this card from your hand. Once per turn: You can discard 2 cards and draw 2 cards. Then, reveal the cards you drew to your opponent and apply the following effects based on their types:
2 Warrior monsters: This card gains 800 ATK until the end of this turn.
1 Warrior monster and 1 Spell/Trap: Destroy 1 Spell/Trap your opponent controls.
2 Spells/Traps: Shuffle 1 monster on the field into the Deck. If you reveal a "Showdown" card, you can also add 1 Warrior monster from your GY to your hand.
The good majority of the crowd spectating the duel were surprised at the sight of four particular Warrior monsters in Jasmine's field. As if dueling under roulette rolls and dice throwing wasn't enough, the blue student had another trick up her sleeve with the "Royal Pips Family" line of cards being bought out in the same duel.
Syrus, on the other hand, had his eyes nervously honed in on Jasmine's Royal Flush monsters; Each of them standing on varying degrees of business, the four deemed Syrus' current performance worthy to enough to treat him with respect, but their intentions clear of giving their wielder a sufficient enough comeback…
"Jasmine might have the advantage in numbers… But we still have the Solidroids outmuscling them. We've got the upper hand, so stay sharp, Syrus."
'Y-Yeah, I get it. But… Jasmine… She wouldn't summon her monsters with lower strength in Attack Position, not without a plan.' Syrus responded back while noticing Jasmine staring at him with her usual smirk. How was she this recklessly casual but concerningly careful in hindsight?
"We've been giving a fine show to everyone, Sy. And you know too well, I've been revealing every second of it! But alas, all good things must come to an end, and your Solidroids will need a cane to shuffle them off the stage soon."
"... You're saying all my hard work was for nothing? Or you're bluffing in order to make me give up? I-I won't fall for it again, Jasmine." Syrus' confidence faltered significantly at the end, knowing that Jasmine from what he had known of her, wouldn't make an idle boast like that without some sustainability.
Her unrelenting smirk shifted into an unnerving but impressive attempt of the Cheshire Cat's smile that made Syrus take a nervous step back…
"Oh dear~ My apologies for making you feel uncomfortable in this situation, sweetie. But I wouldn't lie, especially to you, and more so if it meant downplaying the Ace of the 'Royal Flush' court."
"Your… Ace? Isn't Ace of Spades the Best monster of your deck?"
"No, not him, but he plays a part in bringing one of them here…" Jasmine retorts as she reveals a Spell Card in her hand with dramatic flourish. "You see, the card I added with Ace of Spades is a 'Special' one – Showdown: Straight Shot!"
(FM) Showdown: Straight Shot - Normal Spell
If you control 3 or more "Royal Flush" monsters with different Levels: You can Special Summon 1 "Royal Flush Wild Joker" from your hand, Deck, or GY.
"With Jack, Queen, King and Ace on my field, Straight Shot will bring a performance to remember! Let's bring a little bit more drama to this Exam, shall we?!" Jasmine exclaims in a way that signalled her four monsters to raise their weapons high to the air to properly summon their Trump card.
"The court stands ready to make way for the Jester!" Jack declares with a bold voice.
"The court stands ready for the Harbinger of Sacred Truth." the Queen gracefully followed, her voice ringing like a melodic bell. And finally, the King and Ace made the final call…
"Together, we shall Summon the True Strength of the Royal Flush Family!"
"The Battlefield Beckons for thee, Royal Flush Wild Joker!"
The four Warriors crossed their weapons together, as their separate symbols, a Black Jack, a Crimson Heart, a Golden Diamond, and Green Ace rose above the field. And then a Silver Symbol of the Joker Card manifested and then a ridiculous amount of silvery energy constructs in the shape of playing cards forming into a dizzyingly fast vortex comprised of sliver with the sound of shuffling cards echoing through the arena as the cards spun faster and faster.
And when the last card construct was out and sound of shuffling quickly ceasing along with it came descending dramatically from on high like his Queen was the Royal Flush Joker, a towering figure clad in an extravagant but predominantly violet clothing like jester's outfit with the hat's bell chiming in tow. Gold and silver patterns glistening on his long, flowing cape, and then with a fingersnap the massive amount of hovering card constructs combine to manifest into his silver scepter that card-shaped point at the top with a silver flash of magical energy. His face wears a manic smile, both playful and menacing. He started laughing maniacally but joyfully, twirling his scepter with a practiced ease once before slamming it into the ground, sending out a pulse of silver energy that rippled across the field. (ATK 3000/DEF 2500)
(FM) Royal Flush Wild Joker - Effect/LIGHT/Warrior/Lv 9/ATK 3000/DEF 2500
This card cannot be Normal Summoned/Set. Must be Special Summoned by the effect of a "Showdown" card. Once per turn, you can activate 1 of the following effects based on the number of cards in your hand:
0: Add 2 "Showdown" cards with different names from your Deck.
1-2: Destroy up to 2 cards your opponent controls. If you destroyed a monster, you can add 1 "Royal Flush" monster from your Deck
3: Special Summon 1 "Royal Flush" monster from your hand or GY
"Say hi to my Wild Joker, Syrus; One of many Ace monsters up my sleeves " Jasmine then picked the only card in her hand and placed it on her disk. "By setting this card face-down, you'll see that I have no cards in my hand – Which gives me an option to activate my Wild Joker's effect! It allows me to add 2 Showdown cards by choice from my deck."
Adding her two cards from her deck to her hand, a sinister smile quickly crept onto Jasmine's lips when she revealed one of her cards.
"And here's the handy Spell that will bring your machines down and out of the stage. Showdown: Joker's Wild!"
(FM) Showdown: Joker's Wild - Normal Spell
If you control "Royal Flush Wild Joker", you can tribute any number of face-up Warrior monsters you control; Destroy the same number of monsters your opponent controls, and if you do, your "Royal Flush" monster(s) gain 500 ATK for each monster destroyed by this effect until the end of the turn.
"With this Spell and Wild Joker on my side of the field, I'll sacrifice my Jack, Queen and King as payment for his services!" Jasmine's mentioned warriors that would get tributed by the Spell placed their fist on their chest as they disappeared, in honor and pride of their kingdom's strongest son's summoning and to the disappointment of the many onlookers audience watching the Queen with a relieved smile on her face make her leave for as short as her stay was.
"... And with that deed paid and done with, my Joker will have his chance to destroy your Solidroid monsters for good; Come on my wildcard, 'Joker's Song'!" The arcane scepter in Joker's hand morphed into a scythe-like blade and then it quickly increased in size but not by much, the magic latent within it shifting to a more refined sort of energy and more importantly more then capable of slashing through the three colossal Fusion Machines in Syrus' field with ease. In a surge of panic, the three Solidroids quickly tried to protect themselves from the Joker's sudden onslaught.
But it was already too late… As the magical Joker Knight appeared right in front of the opposing Slifer Red with a manic smile on his as the three Mecha Men were bisected as Syrus yelped in surprise and surprisingly Dee squeaked at the jumpscare as his field was set alight with a silvery explosion and Solidroid shrapnel and then the Wild Joker backflipped to Jasmine's field. And a jumpy Syrus beheld the sobering sight of his field being empty… once again.
"Well crap…" Dee recoiled before quickly regaining her nerve. "We've gotta do something… Syrus, are you okay…"
"No way–" Syrus muttered to him, deflated at this turn of events. "After everything, just… gone."
"And things won't end with just your Solidroid monsters destroyed, Syrus. You see… alongside the first act, Joker's Wild will have my Royal Flush monsters gain 500 Attack for each monster destroyed by the effect. Giving a total of 1500 Attack Points."
Jasmine smirked as her Royal Flush Joker stood tall amidst the chaos. The scepter in his hand shrinking back to the normal size but due the Fusion Monsters destruction the scepter was augmented by the radioactive energy; While the Ace of Spades obtained the silicon souls of the Solidroids for his collection …
Royal Flush Wild Joker (ATK 3000 - 4500/DEF 2500)
Ace of Spades (ATK 2400 - 3900/DEF 2000)
"4500, plus 3900… 8400 in total." Dee warned as she realized the total amount of power the redhead was packing while her concern for her seemingly deflated apprentice grew. "Please, Syrus. I know you're stronger than this, shake it off!"
"It's… It's okay… I'm still here. Sorry for spacing out." Syrus says placatingly, but nervously standing still, unconsciously holding his breath.
"That's the Spirit, Sy. Don't give up, even in the face of definite defeat!" Jasmine eagerly responded to Slifer Red's faltering determination in agreement, wondering excitedly how Syrus would get out of this situation as she increased the hamminess of her showman-like persona to push him even further. "Stubborness is a Duelist's saving grace, but alas the precious minutes of our finale have waited long enough! Ace of Spades; Strike Syrus down directly! 'Polter Piercing! En garde!'! "
"Begone, Interloper!" The Bishop whispers silently, but tightly gripping his jagged Sword of Fell as he held it aloft; A dark jade-colored aura engulfed the blade as the mixture of spectral and dark energy billowed about wildly, its energy then refining and coalescing into an energy construct in the shape of an enormous spade that loomed over Syrus.
With a deafening cry, the Ace of Spades swung the blade down, harnessing and then releasing the ectoplasmic energy into a razor sharp energy blade of dark spectral power that quickly pierced through the air like a poltergeist, and it slammed hard into the tense Slifer Red, who gasped at the sheer pressure of the near deathly chill shooting through his spine as the attack left him on his knees.
S: 4600 - 700 LP
"Syrus! You're cutting it a bit tight there!" Dee frets, helping Syrus up, worried he's pushing himself too far.
"I… I told you, everything… is under control…" The Slifer Red squeaked out, steadying himself and mentally getting ready for the next attack; While hearing jovial laughter ringing in his ears from Jasmine on the other side.
"Oh, dear Syrus… We're playing for keeps now! I still have my Wild Joker to attack with. The question is… Will you be able to stop it, or will the fun end here? Prepare yourself for my Royal Flush Wild Joker!"
"Sy, is your plan ready?" Dee asks tensely, noticing the Jester-esque knight slowly stepping forward, dominating the field with his presence, while Jasmine was prepping for another supervillain-esque pose to complement her demand.
"Let's end this, Wild Joker; Second verse same as the first, Strike Syrus down directly! 'Auroral Ballad', En Garde'!" The Joker's eyes gleamed with playfully malicious intent as Jasmine made her delectably hammy demand as she pointed her finger at her opponent with dramatic flair; The mystic knight spun his ornate scepter, the staff emitting a multicolored spectrum of cascading light. Which then created several shining constructs of playing cards that erratically fluttered and hovered about; The Wild Joker then snapped his fingers, and the cards shot forward like expertly aimed arrows right at a vulnerable Syrus and primed to end this match…
Until a holographic recreation of a Kite-shaped shield quickly intervened, appearing in front of the Slifer Red. The shield swiftly formed a barrier composed of supersonic wind, its wind-speed high enough to deflect energy attacks. The arrow-like barrage of energy card constructs collided explosively with the barrier, leaving Syrus unharmed.
"... Oh? Another back up plan?" Jasmine dryly comments, but clearly impressed by Syrus' resourcefulness and perseverance. "But don't be silent, Shy Guy. What did you pull this time?"
"Well, it's the card I searched with Megaroid City last turn, and then I discarded it when I activated Roid Reinforcement…" Syrus answers in a relieved tone of voice as he reveals the Monster Card in his Graveyard. "I activated my Kiteroid's effect! Once while in the Graveyard, it prevents me from taking battle damage from an opponent's attack."
(A) Kiteroid - Effect/WIND/Machine/Lv 1/ATK 0/DEF 0
If you would take battle damage from a direct attack, you can discard this card instead. Once per Duel, if you would take battle damage from a direct attack while this card is in the Graveyard: You can reduce that Battle Damage to 0.
"Well Sy, you're really grinding on the edge." Dee sighs in relief, but gives a thumbs up to Syrus. "But thank Ra, you're still in the game now. We can still keep moving forward."
Both Syrus and Dee saw the Wild Joker jumping back to Jasmine's field, his wielder clapping in praise for the Slifer Student for a moment but then she had her hand on her chin with a playfully dramatic villain smirk out of a stage play.
"Well done with that move back there… Stalling for time seems to be a running trend in this duel, is it not~? But you have no monsters, no cards in your Spell/Trap Zone to save you… Not even cards in your hand. Jaden would kill for a problem like this, am I correct? You're really giving me 110% here! I'll set this last card face-down, and end my turn!"
Ace of Spades (ATK 3900 - 2400/DEF 2000)
Royal Flush Wild Joker (ATK 4500 - 3000/DEF 2500)
Two set cards stood in Jasmine's Spell/Trap Zone, leaving Syrus feeling a little braver now that he had time to process things a bit more and the onslaught being over for now and getting a better look at a few of the angles of the current circumstances. The bad news being she has two High-Level monsters in her field, but the good her Life Points were also a bit higher than his.
Syrus felt like he couldn't give up after going so far, the short red student quickly catching himself and pondered for only a moment if this sensation, this fire in his gut and the feeling of it running through in his veins was the same addictive rush Jaden and Jasmine reveled in. Setting his thoughts aside for now he then refocused on the fact that he would lose the duel badly if he didn't get a certain card that would change the tide of this tumultuous duel… but he felt… not relaxed but still content despite the obstacle in front of him.
Syrus… he had his fun… And he didn't worry too much about his friends and their support walking out the metaphorical door, and he was certain of it; Including Jasmine, his gleeful and energetic opponent, whose theatres and show villain persona lessened a bit to give a genuine but almost satisfied smile. One would say she also had her fun as well…
"It's certainly been a wild ride?" Dee asks rhetorically with a carefree shrug. "It almost makes me wonder if we'll see her other Trump Card."
'I… It's not like I have any other option but to go forward. But.. I've used up all my resources in this duel… all to get them wiped out in one battle phase.' Syrus sighed, feeling the great skill gap between him and Jasmine even with Dee's support.
"Not entirely, my dear student. Check what you've been doing so far…" Dee cheered, getting the Slifer Red's attention. "Remember when you played your Spell, Card of Adversity… You drew two of my cards to assist."
'Wait, I did? I only paid attention to the Magical Distortion. Which card did I forget?'
"How rude of you. That card you discarded alongside your Kiteroid. That was my Monster Card, Mystic's Apprentice!" the Sorceress playfully confessed with her tongue stuck out at the Slifer Red, making Syrus quickly check his Grave Slot, and taking notice of the monster card she mentioned.
(FM) Mystic's Apprentice - Effect/LIGHT/Spellcaster/Lv 1/ATK 100/DEF 100
During your Draw Phase (Quick-Effect): You can move 1 random 'Magician' Spell from your Deck to the top of your Deck. This effect can only be used once while in the Graveyard.
'Such a card exists… In your deck, that is. And I didn't pay any attention to it, up until now.'
"See? We got this. Let your spirit pull through this next turn, and we'll be sure to get the win!"
'... Yeah, gotcha!' Syrus confidently smiles, his confidence growing as he raises his disk.
Turn 7
S: 700 LP
J: 2100 LP
"It's my turn… But before I draw my next card, I'll activate the effect of my Mystic's Apprentice from the grave!" Syrus declares, and then reveals the card in his hand. "This card has an interesting effect – One that moves a random Magician Spell Card from my deck to be set as the next perfect draw!"
'A Magician Spell card? But isn't his deck focused on his Roid monsters… Wait a minute.' Jasmine thought to herself, and then things started to lock into place as certain support cards played in this duel came to mind. 'Magical Hats, Magic Formula, Magical Distortion… Magic?! Did he purposely mix his machine cards to hide the more Arcane-ish Spells and Traps in order to better enhance his deck? Syrus pulled a fast one on me! Oh my~... Such dastardly sneakiness must be rewarded… handsomely after this.~'
As her train of thought shifted to a more M-rated tunnel of thinking, her reddening cheeks started shifting into crimson, now seeing a warm, ethereal presence of a small young mage cloaked in a blue layered robe adorned with arcane symbols, held a small staff tipped with a radiant crystal. She watched as the Apprentice smiled at Syrus, and extended his hand at Slifer's deck, and a faint glowing card started floating to the top of his deck…
"It's not everyday that I see a surprising occurrence of a little genie such as yourself mixing Mecha Machines with some powers of Sorcery… but I DO love the way you do it, Syrus. Well then, what does Lady Luck have decided to offer you on this next draw?!"
"That… We will have to see it; It's now or never! I DRAW!" The boy placed his fingers on the top of his deck and drew his card. As he looked at it, a grin surged on his lips. "Will you look at it… The Spell Card, Magician's Library!"
(A) Magician's Library - Normal Spell
Add 1 Spell from your Deck to your hand.
"And with this Spell Card activated, I get to add any Spell Card from my Deck!" Syrus activated his card, while adding a certain card to his hand. "Like this one that I'll activate right now; The Continuous Spell, Overclock Program!"
His words seem to have echoed at the end as the card materialized with a burst of luminous azure spark; Shimmering into existence as a futuristic design of a sleek control panel emitting holographic streams of ever rotating and shifting data. In the center above the device, three mechanical outlines—resembling humanoid machines—were overlaid with sparking circuit paths, signifying their imminent reactivation. The entire image pulsed with azure electrical power, radiating an immense sense of technological prowess.
(FM) Overclock Program - Continuous Spell
When this card is activated: Special Summon up to 3 "roid" Fusion Monsters in your GY, ignoring their Summoning Conditions. Their ATK become 0, and their effects are negated.
You can send this card to your GY, then target 1 "Armoroid" you control; it gains ATK equal to the combined original ATK of all Equip Spells equipped to it until the end of the turn.
"My Overclock Program is my last ditch effort to turn the duel my way; Because once it's activated, it lets me bring back my 3 Solidroids that are in my Graveyard, with their effects negated and their Attack Power Zero! Await orders, Solidroid Alpha, Beta, Gamma!"
The audience could see the three fallen Solidroid monsters emerging from the darkness of the Graveyard, their forms surrounded by glowing, geometric grids that reconstructed their physical shapes. One by one, they were brought back onto the field, their once-vibrant colors and powerful auras now dulled and dimmed a dark gray; The reconstituted machines stood tall but silent, their robust designs still a testament to their potential, although their effects had been nullified and imposing stats replaced with a stark 0 ATK.
Solidroid Alpha (ATK 2600 - 0/DEF 1800)
Solidroid Beta (ATK 2500 - 0/DEF 1900)
Solidroid Gamma (ATK 2700 - 0/DEF 2000)
"Oooh~ Impressive trick, Sy! But you realize that their power is vastly insufficient to moi right here~?"
"You know I wouldn't have done this unless I had a plan in mind, don't you?" Syrus smirked, extending his hand on his three Fusion monsters. "You better get ready, Jasmine. My Solidroids may have run out of power for now, but that doesn't mean they're out of the fight. That's because… just like them, I'm now combining my monsters' strength into one Ultimate Machine! But for step one… my Solidroids will become Equip Cards!"
"Say what ag–" Jasmine started to question before getting cut off by Syrus' monsters beginning to glow with a vibrant, electrical pulse of life and power— Alpha with a radiant red, Beta with a brilliant blue, and Gamma with a grand green. The glowing streams from the Continuous Spell card encased the Solidroids in luminous orbs, their forms beginning to shift and merge.
"The time has come to unite these machines and unleash their true power!" Mechanical parts detached, rearranged, and fused, accompanied by the sound of clanging, clashing, chinking, metal and whirring, twirling, intersecting gears.
"The Blazing Core of Alpha!" The Leader's sturdy frame and primary systems detached and expanded into the core reactor, the beating heart of this machine.
"Equipped with the Cutting Edge of Beta!" The precision-engineered components were restructured into artillery and defensive systems; Forming dual plasma blades detached and reformed into an enormous, double-edged energy sabre bursting with shining flame-like sapphire light.
"Enveloped in the Shining Spark of Gamma!" The propulsion system further enhanced the already great strength of this behemoth of a mecha. The weaponized turbofans transformed into massive shoulder-mounted particle cannons capable of unleashing man-made lightning storms.
"Ultimate Combination Summon! Armoroid Gaidengo, Report for Battle!" Syrus slapped the Fusion Monster on his disk; With a thunderous crash and the sound of a mighty lightning strike, the colossal machine emerged from the electricity-riddled smoke, its metallic body gleaming under the light of the arena.
The turbines on its shoulders roared to life, and its energy blade ignited with a radiant blue glow. The air vibrated with the hum of its thrusters as it stood ready for battle, a true testament to the power of unity and innovation. (ATK 2700/DEF 2000)
(A) Armoroid - Fusion/EARTH/Machine/Lv 8/ATK 2700/DEF 2000
3 "roid" Monsters
Must be Special Summoned (from the Extra Deck) by equipping the above monsters you control to this card as Equip Spells, and cannot be Special Summoned by other ways.
If this card destroys a Defense Position monster, inflict damage to your opponent equal to half this card's ATK. If a "roid" monster placed in your Spell & Trap Card Zone is destroyed, this card loses 600 ATK for each. If all of them are destroyed, this card is destroyed.
Dee couldn't understand what she was witnessing… If the Solid Formations weren't enough to make her think that her apprentice was already a resourceful combatant despite his usual skittish demeanor, now bringing about an Ultimate Fusion created by three Fusion Machines?
"D-did Syrus just create this thing out of nowhere? And monsters becoming Equip Cards for a Summon? The hell!?"
'Ah… Ahah, yeah… Crazy, right?' The Slifer thought while breathing heavily from the summoning chant, trying to not surprise his mentor more. 'This, this summoning, you see… I got inspired by a very old anime I used to watch. And Armoroid is my Strongest Ace… yep, that's everything. I absolutely have no other monster to hide in the power department in this duel.'
"... You're really something else, my apprentice. Don't keep your opponent waiting now – We've got a game to win!"
'On it!' Syrus answered resolutely, staring at Jasmine who bore a very gleeful smile at the monster Syrus had been pushed to summon.
"Now THAT is a Giant Mecha to call on for our finale! But despite the towering goliath before me, I still have plenty left in the tank!" She then flipped one of her set cards. "Did you really think I'd let you summon a Beast like that without a fight to the finish? I activate my Trap Card, Phoenix Flames!"
Her Trap Card burst to life, depicting a blazing phoenix surrounded by the sacred flames of rebirth. The burning aura of the card spread across Jasmine's field, engulfing the surprised Ace of Spades and the amused Wild Joker on Jasmine's field. And much to Syrus and Dee' visible dread, the phoenix in the name of the trap was all the forewarning they needed about a certain monster making their appearance here.
(FM) Phoenix Flames - Normal Trap
If your opponent Normal or Special Summons a Level 8 or higher monster: Target as many Warrior monsters you control; Special Summon 1 FIRE Warrior monster from your Deck or GY, then equip the targeted monster(s) to it as an Equip Spell(s).
Your monster will gain ATK equal to the combined original ATK of all Equip Spells equipped to it, also your opponent must attack it this turn, if possible.
"With Phoenix Flames' effect, your Ultimate Mecha Machine will become a stepping stone for my Ultimate Weapon of Rebirth. Now witness… my Ace of Spades and Royal Flush Wild Joker become Offerings to the Phoenix Flame! And I call forth the Knight of White Hot Rebirth! May your flames never fade forevermore, your mistress needs you; Phoenix Gearfried!"
From the sacred flames of wrathful life emerged the statuesque warrior clad in shining crimson and golden armor, the flame like cape billowing wildly as if alive; the blazing blade gradually aglow with the mix of not just the knight's sacred flames but also the arcane and spectral energies of the monsters equipped to him. The energy augmenting his phoenix flames to gradually shift their color. (ATK 2800/DEF 2200)
"You're not the only one benefiting from equipping monsters, Syrus. I want to take your idea for a spin, and my real Ace is just the knight for the job! But alas, Wild Joker and Ace of Spades may be gone, but their presence lives on in Phoenix Gearfried! My knight gains power equal to their combined original Attack Points; Ace and Joker, I order you to bequeath Gearfried with your power now, he's counting on you!"
With Jasmine's demand, two streams of arcane energy streaked and surged along with the sacred flames, one a sun-like silver and the other a spectral jade. The magical energy further enhances the strength of Gearfried to the point of the knight passively emitting a bright sapphire inferno-like aura throughout the battlefield. (ATK 2800 - 5200 - 8200/DEF 2200)
"E… EIGHTY-TWO HUNDRED ATTACK POINTS?!" Dee shouts in disbelief.
"... Ooooh no." Syrus nervously muttered, but didn't want to stress out further in fear of choking at the end.
"Oh, Syrus… If I were you, I would be doubly worried about one more thing. You see, my Phoenix Flames Trap not only gave my knight this monstrous boost! But it also forces your mecha to battle him this turn, whether you like it or not!" At Jasmine's declaration the raging flames of blue oddly enough receded back into Phoenix Gearfried and with a wave of hand the blue flames surged around their arena as if beckoning the gigantic Mecha Machine to challenge his might.
"I've got you squeezed tight in that corner now, Sy. It's the end of the line!" Jasmine concluded, while a hidden smirk was stuck on Syrus' lips.
"It's the reverse, Jasmine; I was the one waiting to corner you with that trick of yours." Syrus stated confidently the girl was not expecting the turnaround. "Great minds think alike, right? I didn't expect you to have your Trap have that kind of effect, but two can play that game – Because I'm sending my Overclock Program to my Graveyard to activate its effect!"
"Oh boy!" Jasmine noticed how the holograms of the sleek control panel started to uncontrollably produce and channel a monstrous amount of energy, without any sign of stopping. Which then immediately caused it to plug in an proportionally excessive amount of electrical power around the colossal Mecha Machine which seemed to drain it completely dry of power before disappearing but caused the Giant Mecha to be enveloped in immense volatile aura of sapphire-tinted electricity. "That's also bad for me?"
"Correct… Because during this turn only, Armoroid Gaidengo will gain the combined attack power of my Equip Monsters – Solidroids Alpha, Beta and Gamma. Activate Protocol: 'SOLID SYSTEM OVERDRIVE'!" The latent power from the three of Syrus' previous Fusions then surged wildly causing Syrus' Ultimate Machine to give an berserker-like roar, the sheer power Armoroid had possessed causing them to accidentally passively create black thunderclouds and causing an indoor lightning storm that covered the whole room as they readied their double-edged energy sabre, ready to fight against the Phoenix Gearfried with deadly resolve.
Armoroid (ATK 2700 - 5200 - 7800 - 10500/DEF 2000)
"Holy… HELL?!" Jasmine yelps by witnessing the berserking mecha she was about to face.
"Oh, HECK YEAH! GO, GO, POWER ON THROUGH SYRUS!" Dee cheers supportively, bright stars in her eyes, as well as the crowd bursting with energy to support Syrus' final endeavor in this uphill battle of a duel.
"It's a 3-on-2, Jasmine! We're going for the final countdown!"
"... Is that so?" She asks a tone of challenge and defiance in her voice, making Syrus wonder what trick she had left in play. "Not afraid of my last set card, are you? You should know better… it could be anyone's game at this point."
"Your Bluffing? And after all this?" Syrus questions heatedly but unafraid this time. "Fine! I have nothing to lose now! You're going down, Jasmine; Let's Battle Gaidengo! Attack Phoenix Gearfried and end this Duel!"
The blade that the Armoroid held on to started to brightly billow again an overwhelming aura of sapphire-tinted power; The energy billowing and sparking intensely, arcs of electrical energy streaking fiercely to and fro from the edges as it prepared to strike its opponent.
"Preparations Complete! Commence Offensive: Plasma Blade – TYPHOON SLASH!" Syrus states confidently, his resolve linking up with the Fusion's furious roar of defiance; Now charging against the Blazing Knight brandishing his sword, sky-blue flames roaring in defiance as sapphire-tinted lightning strikes could be seen and heard all around the room.
Their blade readied for the decisive clash. As the distance between them closed, the impact seemed inevitable, a collision that would shake the entire stadium but then…
"One last gamble for the road! My trap 'Showdown: Flush The Board activates!" Jasmine dramatically raises her hand, her voice almost calm but yet giddily confident. A radiant glow erupted from the card, as the Mecha Machine and the Knight's blades clashed.
(FM) Showdown: Flush the Board - Normal Trap
When a face-up Warrior monster you control is targeted for an attack: Both players excavate cards from the top of their Deck until they reveal a Monster card. The player who revealed the monster with the higher Level gains the ATK of their attacking or targeted monster until the end of the Battle Phase.
The arena being quickly engulfed in an dome of ethereal flame and lightning, the intertwining and clashing energies dancing feverishly about as result of their thunderous clash as both Syrus and Jasmine's minds were transported into a mental space, their decks shimmering fiercely before them.
"... Eh? Syrus? Uh… Buddy? You good?" Dee asks concerned, waving her hands over the boy's eyes, who seems stuck eerily still and then she notices the deck glowing. "The hell…"
Location: Mindscape?
In a Split-second, Syrus and Jasmine locked eyes in the space with a familiar gigantic tree but this time they were under a starlit night sky. The Slifer Red didn't know what would happen this time here, but he would have to save these questions for later…
What mattered to him for now, was that Jasmine was right in front of him; Her demeanor eerily calm yet respectful, began to speak softly.
"Syrus, before I let my Trap go off, I want to know—did you enjoy this duel?"
"Yeah… this is one of the best duels I've ever had. What about you?" Syrus nodded with an almost relaxed smile.
"Of course." Jasmine chuckled out lightly. "Win or lose, it's the thrill of it all that makes this worth it. But you've been the most entertaining opponent I've ever faced in a while. I only wished that this duel would never end, my friend."
Jasmine didn't know where they were but knew that the time was of the essence in the mindscape they were in at the moment, so she had to speed things along…
"Showdown: Flush The Board activated the moment you attacked my Phoenix Gearfried! We have to draw cards until we get a monster; And whoever gets the monster with higher Level, will gain the Attack of the monster it's battling."
"So you mean… it's our final draw, correct?"
"There's no other way to do this dance? Best of luck to you, Syrus."
"Yeah, you too!"
With mutual respect, the two started to draw from their decks. Then time seemed to speed up even further as they prepared for the draw to decide the outcome. The dimensional space fading as one last flash of bright azure-tinted light shined on to mark their return to reality.
Location: Duel Arena
The two duelists seem to have snapped out of their mutual trance and back to their reality and instinctively drew from their decks to decide the outcome of their duel.
"I DRAW!" They shouted together in unison, and flipped their cards simultaneously to reveal…
Syrus' Card: Dark Magician Girl – Level 6
Jasmine's Card: Gemini Soldier – Level 2
Syrus noticed the card that Jasmine had drawn… which seemed to be a card she would use in the exam, but she didn't. And the same thing could be said for the card he drew as well… Now how would he explain Jasmine about the Dark Magician Girl card being in his deck?
"Lady Luck seems to have given you a wink at the end, Syrus." Jasmine giggling from the , her voice dripped with a sense of satisfaction. "... As for me, I do feel lucky in a different way. As you see, Gemini Soldier IS my 'crush card'."
"Wait… What?" Syrus responds dumbstruck, not knowing what to answer Jasmine's blunt and out of nowhere statement but before he could ask further, the battle between Phoenix Gearfried and Armoroid Gaidengo had reached a crescendo and its glorious end.
With the levels determined, Armoroid's sapphire plasma blade pulsed with even greater power than before, infused this time with the power of the Phoenix. The excessive amounts of sparking volatile energy billowing around its weapon morphing uncontrollably into bright white flaring light as it roared furious, the two monsters' clash blowing the both of them back and then, with full power on both sides and with an non-verbal agreement the two engaged in a single stroke battle.
One last mad dash of an berserker-like unstoppable force with an stalwart unmovable object, their blades and bodies ramming into each other and to the audience and the duelist seemingly teleporting in-front of their wielder's respective opponent the indoor lightning storm and the blazing blue inferno dispersed with that display of power.
Phoenix Gearfried in front of Syrus and Armoroid in front of Jasmine, a tense moment that felt like an eternity for many and the Giant Mecha kneeled as significant portion of their body blew apart with a burst of blue phoenix flame, and the Knight of the Phoenix passed out with a burst of multi-colored energy burning it's entire form to ash and cinder, marking Syrus' victory.
"It looks like it's your win, Sy. That was awesome!" Jasmine said cheerfully, unperturbed by her loss. Taking a long satisfied breath as her Life Points ticked down to zero.
J: 2100 – 0 LP
Duel's Result: Victory
The Victor: Syrus Truesdale
A major portion of the crowd erupted into a deafening cheer as the duel disks declared Syrus the winner. The Hologram of Armoroid Gaidengo stood greatly damaged and oil dripping out but triumphant nonetheless for a couple of precious seconds basking in the glorious moment before fading away as well, its plasma blade held aloft in the air triumphantly glowing bright with residual unstable energy, while Syrus smiled relieved at seeing what he had achieved with this victory. The respect he was awaiting to acquire these long last years and it felt euphoric, and all thanks to his friends and allies who didn't leave him behind.
Especially Dee, who gave a soft hug to him and then eagerly whispered into his ear.
"Well done, my wonderful apprentice. You truly blew me and everyone here away."
'T… Thank you so much, my mentor.'
- END OF CHAPTER -