The Invasion of Standard arc begins. An impeding invasion must worse than faced in canon is to occur. I will use the English names for Moon Shadow and Sun Shadow since it is a literal translation. Plus since everyone speaks Japanese translated to English by this text, that is what everyone is saying. All about perception. As I am writing this, Lunalights (or Moonlights) have gotten new support announced. One of the cards also grants a Final Sigma effect which I find neat considering I am hoping to create a unique dynamic with my character and Serena. Extra Deck will lose it's limit, but this will serve more of a reference to the old Fusion Deck as the Fusion Dimension for example lacks a max limit in the story. I know I am a beginner and don't expect much traction especially with my weak beginning plus mistakes, but I do appreciate the follows and favourites because it tells me some are at least interested. If it does, I will figure out DM and review policy when we cross that bridge. As per usual, I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh! and any other references. They belong to their original owners (do they actually read this stuff).
(Academia Main Island Courtyard, Fusion Dimension)
"We have nearly completed our plans in the Xyz Dimension! Now we must move onto Standard. Our occupation forces may not be able to be mobilized fully right now to help other than the Osiris members, but our numbers will make Standard fall! Use full-force, but bring the girls to me! If you spot anyone who looks like Yuri, kill them with any means necessary! Same for the mysterious duelist! I expect results with our best helping! Cronos will also join you since Asuka defected!" declares the Professor to 1500 units, 100 Junior Musicians and Commanders
The crowd cheers and then the Professor heads back to his throne room where the Doktor is waiting for him.
"Professor. I have made progress on my parasites."
"Good. This will be necessary if anyone starts to get un-loyal. Do you have the contingency order put in as well?"
"Why yes. You wish to eliminate Yuri when the time is right."
"Correct. He is still that part of that Demon Duelist. He may be useful now, but he is less than a human to us. He is a monster that must be destroyed."
Leo Akaba heads to a vault and pulls out a package. He tosses it at the Doktor who accepts it willingly.
"That's your bonus."
"Why thank you my lord."
(Reiji's Office, Standard)
"I have some terrible news. This entire city needs to be on lockdown. We are not talking about a small invasion force, but a massive fleet! Many will die if we do not!"
"He is right. Being from Academia myself."
"How severe are we talking about Christopher and Serena?"
"We have forces in the thousands."
Reiji is taken back and has a look of worry
"So let's just say that 1000 of them attack, depending on our Lancers count, it could mean having to beat an absurd amount of duelists at once or overtime. Safe to say, we are fucked. Although we could always immigrate to my home universe. Actually wait then you would all be undocumented immigrants. Fuck. What are we going to do?"
Reiji for once is unsure of his own capabilities. He intended for a small group of the best to gather allies, but that will not be enough. Is it truly possible to defeat his father?
"There may be some good news I could share. Academia is not known for quality. We are divided into 5 different tiers. The lowest rank is Osiris Red. Those with low marks are stationed in this tier. I myself am red, although that is because I was never allowed to rank up. I remember 3 years ago, there was a massive push to gather a lot of duelists. Their decks are nothing special so should one have a way to do a lot of damage and attack multiple times, they go down fast. Even helps if you turn them into cards. They used to make 90% of our population, but many have moved up to Ra Yellow and above. Making them just around 15%. Ra Yellow is stronger and can use some tricks, but are like the Reds for base playstyle. They are our largest body at 50%. Obelisk Blue can use some hand traps with some powerful battle traps so removal is necessary. They use strategy rather than numbers. 99% of Juvenile Officers are of this rank. They make up 25% of our population."
"So this could play into our favour as we value quality more than quantity," comments Reiji
"As for 9% of our population, that is Obelisk Force who use the Honour Student deck. Obelisk Blue has access to some of the cards, but they are mixed into their decks or just don't use them. If you ask me, Obelisk Force is weaker in terms of deck power since they attack more in groups. Their dogs are nothing special as I seen Christopher's ace and if he could attack multiple times, they would drop like flies. But dragging a duel for long is not advisable due to Fusion Trench and Chaos Giant. Obelisk Blue at least has strategy rather than swarming. So against us stronger duelists, they are more dangerous because their strategies are less predictable. Our last tier is Royal Fusion Purple. They make up 1% and consist of staff, the remaining Juvenile Officers and the best students. Their decks are very powerful as they could set up powerful boards. They are not required to wear purple outside formal events as a privilege. Some may stick with a favourite colour like with Sora. Our newest recruit to Purple."
"I do have a quick-play spell I have reserved for Academia grunts. It is called Zanki Exponent. It allows me to select a Zanki monster in the EMZ and it can attack each monster once each. But only if they are of the same archetype. Otherwise just one free attack. I also have a counter trap that is specifically meant to counter Hound Dog called Zanki Shield Nayuta and equip itself to grant defence while preventing effect damage. So I could handle many weaker units at once. Even if I can't physically see them. I am thinking of also duplicating my cards to have multiple builds ready than having to swap many times. The data is there after all."
"Christopher. My team has printed all the cards you requested. I can see why certain card designs were picked. I have plans for more because of circumstances including some potential Lancers. As for the invasion, I was originally planning a Battle Royale over the city, but that is far too dangerous for potential Lancers."
Someone enters the room.
"Reiji Akaba. I have arrived like you said."
"Wait. That is Seto fucking Kaiba."
Seto Kaiba walks in. Much older too and 26 years to be exact. His appearance is that of his DSOD version.
"Indeed Seto Kaiba. We are discussing the implications of this upcoming invasion. Christopher here is the one who knows some very important things. Serena is a defector and has inside intel like our prisoner Sora."
"Then I better pull my brother out of this tournament. Safety aside, I need him to watch Kaiba Corp since I will be joining."
"Understandable. Christopher. This is the CEO of KaibaCorp. Before Solid Vision, we used their duel disks invented by his late adopted father. A genius in his own right, he alongside Pegasus J Crawford from Industrial Illusions helped contribute to the creation of Solid Vision with my father and Yusho Sakaki. Tragically Seto's father died from cancer and he took over at the age of 20. I requested his help as his company has focuses a lot on technology in the modern day while providing services for other countries except Japan and the Americas. He also is a very competitive duelist in Domino City and a rival of mine."
"My father was an honourable man. Because of that, I take my job very seriously."
"Seems this version of his adopted father is actually a decent guy."
"Good to know. That being said, I know I do, but do you have a way to attack multiple times?" asks Christopher
"I have money."
"Valid."
"Something I must ask is why you carded that man?" asks Reiji
"He is too big of a threat. I know you want us Lancers to be morally correct, but I almost died. And this guy could be a problem later. Not to mention if we have to deal with a massive army, how the fuck do you expect us to beat them if they can just rest up and try again. Do you have like drugs to give us that can make us fight 24/7?"
"This guy is right. While I can see the moral argument, do we even have a choice?" asks Kaiba
"Well unless we can...I think I may have an idea. What if we can make a prison? Use the carding feature to jam their duel disks and lock them up."
"That would take too long, but we could jam their duel disks and take their decks. Leaving them stranded could help individuals like Yuya eliminate them," comments Reiji
"Earlier before Serena and I came here, I did download the force return feature and also jammed it. Maybe we could even jam the carding feature? Would be useful as non-combatants are automatically easy to card. Also try to prevent dimension travel which can give us more time. We should also modify Master Rule Revision to return the scales as separate zones."
"Seto and I will see what we can do. In the meantime, prepare the others."
Reiji pulls out a suitcase to give to him.
"This is for you to have."
"Sounds good."
"Before we go, in Academia, we have no Extra Deck limit. I heard that is the same in Xyz and Synchro, but not here. Think you could change that?" asks Serena
"I can with data. Since we have all the methods, the 15 card rule was in place for balance purposes, but this changes things. It will make two Pot cards better for those who need the Extra Deck as the most notable difference."
(You Show, Standard)
"First introductions must get out of the way. This is Serena. She is from the Fusion Dimension. For you girls, she is your fourth counterpart. While she originally believed in Academia, after learning the truth, she wants to fight with us. It is in her nature to be honourable. Next is we must prepare for an invasion. Forget the tournament. We are looking at something way worse than how things should have gone. Normally the next round would have been a Battle Royale across the city. Thus participants would face off against any Academia forces that show up. Sora would return normally here. More importantly is that Yuri will show up. After Yuzu specifically. Unfortunately many would perish as anyone inexperienced would struggle. Solid Vision would cover the city to also avoid damage. But instead we will evacuate the city of non-combatants. Those who wish to stay must be duelists or emergency staff. Even if one does not fight, they will be given a duel disk and a basic deck I built that could deal with basic forces. This is to avoid carding. But I need fighters to join me!"
"So they are coming. I will fight them to the end!" declares Shun
"The Phantom Knights will not be defeated! Heartland may have fallen, but I refuse to let another dimension fall!" adds Yuto
"Like what Shun and Yuto said, I want to fight so I can bring smiles to people once again!" adds Ruri
"I grew up having nothing! I refuse to let some bastards have people live how I did my who life!" adds Rin
"I may be new to you all, but I agree with Rin!" adds Yugo
"I the man Gongenzaka will be unmoved to protect as part of my duty to my clan!" adds Gongenzaka
"Yuya has always protected me, but I want to protect him and my home! So count me in!"" adds Yuzu
"Ruri said we should fight too bring back smiles and I agree. I also want to fight by Yuzu's side and protect our home!" adds Yuya
"Serena. I know we established this before, but not everyone heard."
"I want to make up for my beliefs. I grew up believing in honour. But instead I grew up living a lie. I believed the Professor thought of me as something, but I was only a tool. I will fight alongside all of you!" declares Serena
"Good, but we need more power. This is something I have been working with Reiji over. Our Xyz trio may have gotten a boost, but they still need more. These are treats from my old home and will serve us nicely. I have submitted for more custom cards of mine to also help."
Christopher opens up the rather big suitcases and many deck boxes are visible. Two per listed name.
"Christopher. Who are these other names like Moon Shadow and Sun Shadow?" asks Yuya
"Some other allies I have in mind. As for these, these deck boxes click on belts very nicely and are very durable. While our cards are pretty durable, I also have card sleeves being designed for extra protection. These will be duel disk compatible because of some upgrades everyone will get. But due to time constraints, we may not get them right away. For what is inside, I will have one-on-one sessions with you all."
"Can I do mine with Yuto?"
"No madly in love girl."
"Can I trust nothing funny will happen?" asks Shun
"Yes, but I need to do so one-on-one anyways to be more efficient. Like their decks are very different."
Ruri just pouts at being denied.
"Jeez did Ray ever do it with Zarc because I have feeling if they did, she was the reason. Plus now that I think about it, there is this bad trait that seems visible in every single counterpart? Ruri is her love obsession, Yuzu needs a fan, Rin is very tsun, and Serena well actually this one is because of Leo, but her socialization is garbage. So probably that instead of a proper trait. Yuya really is a performer, Yugo is a dumbass, Yuri is sadistic. Now Yuto is levelheaded, so I guess simp because of Ruri. So I will have a random order set. Today we will also have a big feast as Reiji lend me his credit card for food and potential gear. As it is getting late, I can only do 2 tonight. The rest of you get rest. Yuya and Yuzu, tell your parents everything."
Christopher randomizes on his duel disk.
"Yugo and Rin. You two will be my first. Starting with Yugo."
(You Show Duel Field, Standard)
"Yugo it is important you learn how to use other summoning methods. Your deck is pretty capable of doing so as long as they are WIND. Since I have Simulation Mode on, you can start with whatever hand you want."
"Sweet!"
"Have two scales in your hand."
"Alright. So here we go. With the Scale 1 Speedroid Marble Machine and the Scale 8 Speedroid Dominobutterfly, I set the Pendulum Scale!"
ERROR!
"What? What did I do wrong?"
"You don't place the scales in the main monster zones. Because of Master Rule Revision, you have the choice of either at both ends of your duel disk or at the furthest left or right spell/trap zones. Both do the same."
"Oh. I see."
Rin mouthes how he is an idiot
"With the Scale 1 Speedroid Marble Machine and the Scale 8 Speedroid Dominobutterfly, I set the Pendulum Scale! With this, I can Summon monsters with Levels 2 through 7! Let's rev it up! Pendulum Summon! Appear my monsters! Speedroid Block-n-Roll and Speedroid CarTurbo!"
"Very good. I know people doubt you, but your enthusiasm to learn is a good thing. Now to Link Summon, remember you cannot summon them to a main monster zone. Always the Extra Monster Zone or EMZ. Unless there is a link arrow pointing to a zone. Now you have two WIND monsters. These meet the criteria and are also face-up. For a chant, after saying something we go Arrowheads confirmed! Link Summon! Then whatever rating and lastly name. Give it a try by sending your monsters to the Graveyard."
"Alright. This one is getting stretchy with it's bullets. Rev up through cyberspace and go boom boom with rubber bands! Arrowheads confirmed! Link 2! High-Speedroid GOM Gun!"
"Very good. Now return it to the Extra Deck and place your monsters back."
Christopher presses something which allows the move. He also makes CarTurbo level 4.
"Now let's try and Xyz Summon. I made sure both monsters are the same level. This is important for Xyz Summons. The way we do this is by placing all monsters being used as overlay units on top of each other. Then the Xyz monster on top of them all. Understood?"
"So like this?"
"Yes. Now Xyz Summon the Gem-Knight Pearl I gave you by placing it on top."
"I overlay my Speedroid Block-n-Roll and Speedroid CarTurbo to build the overlay network. I Xyz Summon a monster!"
"You are doing very good. Are sure it isn't to impress your girlfriend?"
"W-well we aren't dating, but I still want to prove myself to her."
Rin mouthes "Seriously Christopher?"
"Time for our last lesson. I will do the same, but change your monsters to have different names. Take out the well Fusion card, but your still Yugo. Also add Retort Fusion."
Yugo does as he is told.
"Fusion Summon Dragoness the Wicked Knight by playing Fusion. Send both monsters under different names right now. You can use cards in your hand for Fusion as well for a heads up. Also, not all Fusion monsters have specific materials as well."
"Alright so here I go! I activate Fusion! I Fusion Summon a monster!"
"Now summon Kaminari Attack with Retort Fusion. Normally you pay 1000 LP. Since we have no proper Speedroid Fusion monsters, this will be your way of having Fusion Summoning for now. Use them for Synchro or Link plays. I am not sure if we can errata to remove the drawbacks, but I can try in the future. Now do it."
"I activate Retort Fusion! I Fusion Summon a monster!"
"Good. I would teach Ritual Summoning, but I am skipping it for many. There is just too much bricking. I could cheese my way since I could make a dedicated build or because I search a lot."
"Ah man."
"I am sending you some videos to watch. Even for Ritual Summoning if the opportunity somehow occurs. That is all."
"Rin. Since you and I have gone over things before, I think you got this. Show me what you can do."
"Got it. With the Scale 1 Prima Materiactor and the Scale 7 Flash Knight, I set the Pendulum Scale! With this, I can Summon monsters with Levels 2 through 6! Cast a spell! Pendulum Summon! Appear my monsters! Windwitch - Snow Bell! Windwitch - Ice Bell! Windwitch - Glass Bell! I now link off my Snow Bell and Ice Bell! Blowing winds present a charming spell! Arrowheads confirmed! Link Summon! Link 2! Wynn the Verdant Wind Spirit Charmer!"
"Very good Rin. Now I will reverse the Link Summon and make everyone level 4. And go."
"I overlay my level 4 Snow Bell and Ice Bell to create the overlay network! Come out from your storm before the thunderous clap! Xyz Summon! Rank 4! Lightning Chidori."
"Also very good. Now there is card that I hope you use so do your signature Synchro Summon as I allow you to reverse the move."
"Alright. Here I go. Level 4 Glass Bell tunes level 3 Ice Bell. Midwinter wind. Make ice and snow my power and blow through! Synchro Summon! Appear! Level 7! Wind Witch - Winter Bell! I now add Harmonic Synchro Fusion from my deck to my hand. I play it. Sound of the wind running through a snowfield of midwinter. Become one with the inner voice, and give a more violent echo! Fusion Summon! The ice crystals glisten across the midwinter snowfield! Synchro Summon! Appear, bell of crystal echoing solemnly and bell of diamonds! Windwitch - Crystal Bell and Windwitch - Diamond Bell!"
"Excellent Rin. Now like with Yugo, no Riitual Summon tutorial. It's just very bricky and I don't have anything good to give. Maybe Ray will in the future. Now let's go with Yugo shopping.
(Clothes and Gear, Standard)
Christopher drives them over illegally as he lacks a license, but thankfully he knows how to drive the bus. He parks them and tells the pair they have arrived.
"Hey Christopher. Did you somehow get a license?" asks Rin
"No, but I drove a lot in my old life. It was a requirement because it's not like I lived in downtown Toronto."
"Where is Toronto?" asks Yugo
"Capital of the province of Ontario, Canada. I am not sure if the country exist here, but that is it. Now that is not important. What we need is versatile gear. While I will not police over clothes, I recommend anything with pockets and easy to move."
The group go shopping and Christopher also picks up few tools. Rin just gets pink cargo pants for the extra pockets, a green backpack and green fanny pack. Yugo however chooses a full on mechanic outfit. The exact same one he wore back in the Commons.
"Seriously Yugo? That was the best you got?" asks Rin
"Hey. It's not my fault the men's section was so small. I can even wear my riding outfit on top even if it looks a bit odd at certain areas. Besides, you only upgraded to cargo pants. Even though the shorts were cuter."
SMACK
"Don't say things like that in public!"
"Ahem. Anyways, back to Yugo's original point, since you lived in the Commons, let's just say that for casual wear, middle-class men tend to get small sections. Blame the trends, not me. Also here."
Christopher tosses a yellow fanny pack and light blue backpack at Yugo.
"You will need these as Rin has the right idea. The pockets can hold your deck and side decks. Tools can be useful as we will head to Synchro or Link first. Synchro especially as you two would know how rough it can get. Now grocery shopping."
(Yuya's House, Standard)
Christopher is cooking some kind of dinner with Yoko when he hears an alert on the TV talking about evacuating.
"Christopher. Yuya told me everything. I won't deny as a mother, I am really worried about losing Yuya especially after my husband left."
"I get that. Not sure if Yuya mentioned it, but if Yusho is alright, he should be in the Fusion Dimension keeping Academia defectors safe. We will make sure he also gets home safely when we travel to the other dimensions."
"Why don't you use high heat to cook the food faster?" asks Serena as she approaches the pair
"Because high heat doesn't mean faster. To make things simple, the inside must also be cooked. So the outside is exposed so much that it burns. Thus you could have something like a salmon that is black on the outside and raw in the middle. And so raw it is literally stone fucking cold. Sorry about my language Yoko."
Once things are done, it sure was a treat plus a heat lamp helped. Wagyu steaks, duchess potatoes, hand dived scallops, pearl lobster, and steamed vegetables.
"Dig in. You all deserve it."
Christopher steps out to take a call from Reiji.
"Hello?"
"Christopher. I am unable to close dimension travel of any sorts. I do not have the needed infrastructure."
"This is not good as I will have to do things differently. Did you contact the Link Dimension?"
"I was able to send your message. No response yet."
"One thing I am also concerned about are attacks outside Maiami. We can only hope they focus on us. Best to tell the world to activate solid vision and keep non-combatants in a secure location. There are no true standing duelist armies after all. Also would be wise to send data of staple cards over to them so they can hold their own. I doubt Commanders will attack elsewhere because they want me dead and the girls captured."
"I will see what I can do."
"Good. Will talk to you tomorrow."
Christopher hangs up and goes to the group.
"I am out of time. Unless they have mobilization issues, our fight is tomorrow. At noon the earliest, but I will check with Mieru. I have videos to share and I will focus on Yuya and Yuzu tomorrow morning. They are high risk because they have some serious power gaps with the others. I will try to squeeze Gongenzaka in for Link Summoning since I know Fusion and Rituals are off the table, but no gurantees. And Gongenzaka, try your best to avoid tagging as our decks with cripple yours if a shared Graveyard occurs."
Christopher then shares his tutorials with group and hopes for the best. As everyone heads to their respective sleeping areas or homes, Serena chooses to stay with Christopher to interact with him. Even after Yoko turns off most of the lights.
"I take it you want to talk to me. Go ahead. Not that I really need to sleep ever."
"Can I tag with you during the invasion? Your the one brought reality to me."
"No."
"Why not?"
"I am a lone wolf and can handle my own. Plus I have the biggest target on my back. That is asking for the most dangerous mission."
"So."
"My answer is still no."
"Then can you explain your past as the others mentioned some things?"
"Fine. You know how the dimensions are split into five?"
"Correct."
"All together they make one universe. The thing that binds all of them together. Otherwise it would be impossible to travel since universes are an entire system or at least as of now. I come from another universe. It is like this one, although let's just say people look differently, but that is beside the point. Duel Monsters was called Yu-Gi-Oh! back where I was from and was a hobby people did on the side. And if you think combos here are crazy, let's just say that back at home, you could set up a board that doesn't let your opponent play the game on turn 1. We also have a ban list so no Pot of Greed."
"Never heard of a ban list, but I heard back at Academia, they tried to create Pot of Greed, but it was far too costly to mass produce. Other Pots were made instead. Also how did you beat such a board?"
"Either hand traps, Sphere Mode, or Kaijus with strong deck engine. It is pretty rough. Since dueling hardly nets you an income, I was a chef. That is why I can cook so well. I had a friend group and there was this lovely woman who I was also supposed to go out with. Her name was Chloe."
"Going out? Going out where?"
"Do you know what dating is or where babies come from?"
"No idea."
"She is way worse than I thought. At least she is not Genie levels of bad. So when two individuals are really close to each other, it leads to a rank higher than friends. That is when kissing, notably on the lips, occurs."
"Ohhhh. So that is what it is?"
"Pretty much. Although kissing does not happen first and going out physically is still thing. So yeah that rings true. But it would never come to be as I was on a trip. I was not armed. We used weapons to protect ourselves just for context. There was a bear. The details are still fuzzy for me even though I dream sometimes of it. Maybe due to trauma. I think I was in Yukon to meet with the Indigenous people to learn about their cultural food and explore the parks."
"Someone help me!"
Christopher heard screams of one of his groupmates and yells for the others
"Why the fuck did we not all carry guns? I knew this such a dumb idea, but still went with it. Jake hold on!"
There he saw a grizzly pinning Jake. The son of one of his other groupmates. Purely on impulse he pulled out his knife and charged at it.
"Whatever happens to me, I want to make sure he is okay. He is just a kid who made a dumb mistake straying off the path."
Despite a successful slash to an eye, Christopher feels a burning sensation on his body as he is slashed and knocked over. The bear turns his attention to Christopher as he tries to get up.
"Run Jake! Don't look back!"
"That is all I truly remember, but like I said it could be wrong. I fear death rather than bears though. I then woke up to see Ray. She gave me this bracelet. They have unique powers. Mine let's me access the card database on the whim with some affinity to technology. Yours can weaken the boys. Ruri can soothe, Rin can form barriers, and Yuzu can separate them by teleportation but her bracelet sustained damage from an incident. Either way, it is important Yuzu, Ruri and Rin stay with their respective boy. This is to keep Zarc in check. He is what destroyed the Original Dimension. So I have a really strong hunch the Professor wants to kill them. Same for all of you girls, but to merge you all into one for his daughter Ray. Now I must always wear this bracelet because Zarc will try to control me since it costs less for him to do so than to randomly do it on the boys. Well I guess technically with you here that is not a problem."
"Why is there no version of me in the Link Dimension."
"I asked Ray about it once, but really the best I got is there was some kind of error in the split. After all, from where I am from, this is a show. But so much has changed. While my past knowledge can help, it will be really limited moving forward. I do know someone named Dennis is to watch out for since he may try to join as a spy. That being said, normally your history with Yuri is non-existent, but I noticed something. There is some history between you two. After all my goal is to card him because he is a threat."
Serena seems hesitant, but begins to speak "He was my friend."
"I heard a was."
"Yes. We had a falling. Our first meeting was when I was 7 I believe. The orphanage I lived in was really worn down over in a city called Venice. It was in this isolated part of the city. No outsider really came here as we were deemed undesirable. I had to move sections and I found Yuri. We became friends. When I was 9, the Professor came. He took us to Academia after he became their headmaster. I was locked up in that tower, but Yuri still snuck in. While we all spoke Japanese, Italian was another language we picked up. Yuri and I spoke it a lot together."
(Serena's Tower, Fusion, 5 years ago)
{All conversations are in Italian}
"Serena!" calls out Yuri as he crawls through a vent before landing on a bean bag chair that Serena placed for that purpose
"So you arrived plant boy."
"I have. But I got something for you."
Yuri proceeds to pull out a yellow ribbon from his pocket.
"I heard the older girls in the school really like to talk about tying their hair. I want to give you this. I even got them to show me how."
"You have to teach me how first."
"Sure. We start by..."
After a few tries, Serena gets it and looks in the mirror to see how she looks.
"I like it. So. Anything that went on at school?"
"Boring usual stuff."
"Did you try to befriend someone at all today?"
"Nah. They think I am weird. I do not care about finding other friends as I have you."
"It was such a nice moment. I wished I could have given something back but all I had if I tried was leftover food. Our moments were like this which always ended with the Professor catching us. I assume that despite his issues, it wasn't worth the money to wall off the vent. After all, I can't escape through it since it was too high. This all changed shortly after I tried to leave. My biggest mistake was not telling Yuri. He came in later that day. But lacked his usual cheerful self. All because I was selfish and never stopped to think of about the one who supported me all this time."
(3 years ago)
"Yuri. You arrived"
Yuri looks down and does not answer, but clenches his fists.
"What's wrong?"
"How could you? The Professor told me everything. How you tried to leave and didn't even think of me. You tried to leave me when you know I have no other friends. It was all lie was it? This friendship. You only used me for your own amusement. I never truly meant anything to you. I would have even went with you, but... I hate you! I never want to see you again!" yells a hurt Yuri angrily as tears flow from his eyes
"Yuri wait. I am sorry. I should never have left on my own."
Little did Serena know that Zarc's spirit was also amplifying Yuri's anger.
"Guards! Serena is trying to escape again!"
"That was the last time I ever truly saw him. I cried to sleep that night. I waited each day to see if he returned, but he never did. I gave up and I truly felt alone. I was hoping to also join the frontlines in order to make it up to him, but that doesn't matter now."
Christopher notices a tear stroll down her cheek.
"Sigh. What a mess of a situation. Do I do? Might as well. Based on my last duel, pain is not a big deal for me as she could punch me."
"Hold on what are you doing?" asks Serena at suddenly getting hugged, yet something about it felt fatherly while both of their bracelets blink. She also just doesn't feel like punching him.
"I lost my beloved cat years before I died that day. This was during a pandemic we had. So it made things even more rough. All I could do was watch him suffer to death as there was no vet available. I asked myself why I didn't end it to this day. That's why when I saw that cat, it really got to me. We are not too different. While the others have someone, we are all on our own. Hell I have a time limit. I can see how much you regret that day when it comes to Yuri."
Christopher lets go of her and she regains her composure
"We really do. And what do you mean by time limit?"
"The revival did not go as successful as Ray is not really a god. So my body is much younger than it should be plus it will deteriorate. My goal is prevent Zarc from reviving and stopping Academia. Then I can go home. Anyways, you can come with me. You like to be direct so you probably follow me anyways. Also here is Barrett's deck. Maybe there are generic cards you can use."
Serena takes the deck and looks through it. She takes some cards and hand the deck back.
"I already have quite a few staples, but these can be useful. As for your deck, what does it really do or what is it? Like I saw you use multiple methods."
"Zanki or literally cutting machine. A pun on how we say calculator in Japanese. Enzanki which is flame cutting machine, and it is a pun on operation. The character 'en' references their FIRE Attribute. Kaizanki is literally clod cutting machine, and it is a pun on falsification. Since Japanese is not my first language and was merely a free skill given, I had to be creative on my other card designs. The Main Deck is easy as I keep Zanki. The numbers on my Rituals are just degrees. My Pendulums are just symbolism for their scales, but Reiji designed those ones. As for my Fusion monsters, I added what we say circumference (Shu) at the front. My Link monsters have how we say theorem (Teiri). Over back at home we call them Mathmechs with some cards like Dia having name changes to be more in line with their proper math term. This is because the game had two versions. The TCG and OCG. We are playing like the OCG due to the names of the cards we use. I played the TCG which had different names. There are also what we call anime effects in both versions. A few examples are the dragons used by the boys which have different effects back home. As for my playstyle, it is what I call Balanced, All-Around, or Anything Goes. This is due to how flexible my builds are. I could go full on aggro that only cares about Final Sigma. Or I can opt for a control build with Laplacian and some of my other Ritual monsters. I could even do a tempo/midrange build that does some control and some aggro. I also play with 60 cards depending on the build to reduce the likelihood of getting say 3 Ash Blossoms. Makes Pot of Greed and Avarice better or how we call it back at home, Pot of Desires because I am less likely to banish all 3 copies of a card."
"That makes me an aggro. I tend to swing fast and hard. Is your deck weak to anything?"
"It is crippled by Droll hard since I can be shut down for the turn. So I have to go full on Final Sigma as a wall. Plus hope my first search was Superfactorial. Then if I can mill Dia to get an omni negate. Final Sigma also dies to anything that tributes for cost. Apart from Zero and Gemini, I also have no monster with any form of decent defence outside of my one trap providing it. So unless I have to, I must stick to attack. I struggle with defence mode because Final Sigma only does double battle damage in the Extra Monster Zone against a monster. And I can't use that one continuous trap card as I must draw it and it is a brick at the same time. Also not searchable. Nibiru is not a threat against Final Sigma because it is an activated effect. Although it becomes an annoying wall. Usual hand traps are not too bad as I can plow through quite a few, but resources can burn fast especially if I run a 40 card build. Making a grind game not that desirable with so many hard once per turn effects. I also have only a few negate options as well. I have a level 12 Fusion as well that can do two negates one turn, but requires 6 materials. Two being Chord and Segment. "
"How about this? I deal with the aggro plays and you do control."
"Sounds good, but against grunts I will do aggro for quick clearing."
"Fair. What were my Moonlights called back over in your universe?"
"Lunalights in the TCG. Still Moonlights in the OCG. I am unsure why the name change happened, but if I check my bracelet...You would be able to play three more cards. A random fish, some useless Normal monster which is outclassed by others of similar type. But you would never run them anyways. The real concern had to be Black Rose Moonlight Dragon or how we would call it here, Moon Flower Dragon - Black Rose. Wish they kept that naming scheme as it was cool. I will say it would have been easier to treat them as not Moonlights."
"Lunalights. I can dig it. Since you can speak English, maybe I will use the term if we ever duel."
"Sure."
"Something that is on my mind is how large is the Fusion and Xyz Dimension since for an occupation force, that is pretty small?"
"That was something I found pretty interesting. Standard has way more countries than the two you mentioned let alone combined. Only 3 medium countries for every dimension, but Standard. Even Academia was surprised the whole Xyz Dimension fell that fast which does imply skill, surprise and Solid Vision is very important. Meanwhile Synchro is very rough and from what I learnt from Rin, people there can get physically violent if needed which for a small army is not desirable. Link is far too advanced and could decimate the army even at full power. I think that is why one of the plans for the Professor is to rapidly recruit many individuals when an occupation occurs in Standard. That is if we let one happen. Should we hit them hard, that should keep them away or least until their army starts to get really big. With expansions planned, the goal is at least 500,000 standing."
"Good to know. Living in a tower sucked, but at least we can use your former ties to Leo for something."
"Correct. By the way, how fluent are you in English?"
"I don't know. I am Canadian after all and is one of the official languages of the country. And I grew up on it. I can also speak Spanish if you want me to," he answers in English
"What did you just say?"
"Not my exact words, but yes I am fluent. I also can do Spanish if you want. Being Italian, you would understand quite a bit I say as there is some overlap."
"Capisco perché pensi che sia così."
"A harder one for me to catch, but I take it 'think' was at least one of the words."
"I can see why you think that is the case. That is what I said."
"Supongo que tengo que aprender tu idioma."
"I see how it is then."
Suddenly Yugo comes by wanting some water and he sees Serena. He forgot to hug Rin earlier and due to the low lighting, it makes it harder for him to differentiate.
"I forget to give you one before you left. Riiiiiiiin!"
UPPERCUT
"Take a hike!
Unfortunately for her, Yugo still thinks she is Rin.
"Rin-Rin!"
KICK
"Take a seat!"
"Rin-Rin!"
UPPERCUT
"Take a hint!"
"Rin-Rin!"
KICK
"Tick off!"
"Hey! Be quiet down there! People are trying to sleep!" yells Yoko
"Sorry Yoko! I will keep them in line!" apologizes Christopher
"Yugo. Rin went to Yuzu's place so get your sand out of your eyes. Or else I will tell her what you did."
Yugo shivers and scurries away. Little did they all know that Rin had a "felt a disturbance in the Force" moment and Serena would rat him out.
"Anyways Serena, we can talk more another time, but best you get rest. There is a sleeping bag in the closet if you want to sleep here. So good night."
(?, Dream)
Christopher wakes up yet is unable to move or speak. He can only look in one direction.
"So Leo Akaba. What does this thing do?"
"It is equipped with advanced artificial intelligence enabling it to do many things. Most notably duel and interact. Some upgrades include a basic medical and combat chip. I after all created this to serve as a bodyguard for my daughter."
"With all due respect, there is another reason you listed."
"Why yes. The possibility of wearing them for entertainment or even using them as actors for more realistic scenes involving fire. After all, I plan to design a special shell casing to replace the current one that can withstand many forms of trauma."
"Any liability issues you feel may occur."
"Assuming no one tampers with them, they should be pretty friendly. As for my new casing, I have designed a special laser gun that penetrates through it. It does not affect organic matter so a human in the way of the target will have the shot phase through them until it makes contact or stays in the air for too long. Thus giving us a safe and easy way to deal with them."
"What powers this gun?"
"Duel energy. It does cost a lot of it so I do not plan on making more of these things until we gather enough enough."
Suddenly the world glitches out and next he is watching a young Ray introduce "him" to Zarc. But Christopher is not the one speaking. Rather ES-01 is. The body he inhabits in this dream. When he sees the fan come out at Ray's home, he comments on it.
"So that is where Yuzu came from, but what does this all mean?"
(Next morning)
Christopher has Yuya and Yuzu follow him to train. Rin proceeds to hit Yugo because Serena ratted him out for a comedic moment or at least to everyone who saw.
"Yuya and Yuzu. I am going to do Link Summons with you all. It is the one method that your decks now have. I have a feeling if needed, Zarc or Ray will give you the knowledge on the other methods. Yes, even Zarc as he doesn't want his fragments to die."
Christopher activates his duel simulator mode
"I want you to take a Link monster and read the requirements. Take whatever monsters you need and place them on the field."
They do so.
"Arrowheads confirmed! Link Summon! Link Number! Name! This is what we usually say after our chant. So try it by sending your monsters to the Graveyard. Remember that they must be face-up and always will go the Extra Monster Zone. If already occupy, it must go to a zone where a Link monster points to."
"I will start by sending my two Aria monsters to the graveyard! My monsters connect to conduct my choir into harmony! Arrowheads confirmed! Link Summon! Link 2! Bloom Harmonist the Melodious Floral Virtuoso!"
"I won't let Yuzu steal the whole show! I send my Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon and Entermate Soldier Tiger to the Graveyard! Swing my pendulum once again to take me to new lengths! Arrowheads confirmed! Link Summon! Link 2! Beyond the Pendulum!"
"Very good. Seems you two watched the videos. Extra note for you Yuya, but your Link 3 monster has 2+ listed. Can you see it?"
"I can."
"You can actually use your current monster as two materials. This helps when link climbing, but don't think too hard about it. That is more for dedicated Link decks."
After he finishes, he calls Reiji.
"So how is the evacuation going?"
"Not good. The lack of evidence is making a good chunk of the population unwilling."
"Well shit."
"I did manage to recruit 276 duelists as infantry to join us including more Commanders. I will not deny that money was involved. Once they finish evacuating as many civilians as they can, our remaining police force of 513 will also jump in."
"At least that helps. Way less than what we need, but at least we can charge through if needed. I do request to see Sora at some point before noon. I want to see if I could get anything out of him. I will want permission to be able to release him. It may sound questionable, but he is destined to join us because of inner turmoil. I also will be at the one store so hopefully I don't have to break in. Do you have any alternatives to carding ready as well?"
"I have a stun feature ready."
"That helps. Just remember that I will still card and others will too because we have no choice if we want to cut their numbers down. Especially helpful to cause political instability at Academia. Serena mentioned a goal to me of an army of 500,000 so if we want to win, we have to be quick as I have a feeling your father has supplemented his power that he really bring the war machine into overdrive. And also if you give me a title, I request Prime Minister or Governor General as part of it."
(You Show, Standard)
"I gathered everyone here. So hand traps are important. For Gongenzaka, good thing many are monsters for you. These can really cripple many decks if used correctly. I don't recommend them against grunts because hitting hard and fast is more important. Against Commanders, I say hard yes. I wish I could say more, but time is money. I also have a group of kids who want to say goodbye."
Tatsuya, Ayu and Futoshi step up and tearfully bid farewell to the group. Christopher is last be approached and he kneels down.
"Hey you three. I cannot guarantee what may happen, but I will do my best to keep everyone safe. Whether it be defending Standard or gathering allies in the other dimensions, their safety is important to me."
He hugs them farewell as their parents pick them up to take them to safety.
"All of you, into the bus. Yugo. Take Rin to LDS and wait for us there."
He buses them all over to the same shop. Yuto gets a new cape, but with pockets. He adds a black leather jacket on top of his shirt as well. Ruri gets a black cloak. Serena adopts her canon 2nd jacket. Shortly after she would dump her old jacket in a trash bin. Yuzu by far is the most drastic change from her school uniform. Adopting an outfit like her dad, but instead of red, it is pink. Instead of orange, white. She wears a sky blue shirt underneath. Everyone does get a backpack and fanny pack. They oddly enough match their hair colour. After they are done, Christopher takes them to LDS with the shop owner closing up with the intention of evacuating after contemplating.
(LDS, Standard)
Christopher tells the group to go to Reiji while he sees Sora. He request Yuya and Yuzu join him. They arrive to Sora's prison medical room where he can be seen watching some cartoons and eating candy.
"Sora. We need to talk. I want to make a deal. It also involves giving your deck back."
"I am listening."
"Join us. Your help can be greatly appreciated."
"Why should I? I believe in Academia's goals. At some point they will come for me and then soon we will have our utopia."
"But you don't want to see these two get hurt. You helped me after all because you wanted to help Yuzu and Yuya."
Sora flinches knowing full well he has internal conflict but "That is only because the world getting destroyed is against Academia's goals."
"What if I told you the Professor would have allowed the Doktor to implant a parasite into Yuzu's brain to mind control her to hurt others? Remember I know some things even if many things have changed. I assume if your fine with that."
"I won't allow it!"
"See, your loyalty is not really there."
"Sora. Please leave all of this fighting behind. Dueling should be for smiles. Remember all those fun times we had before your duel with Shun? Even when you wanted to be my apprentice, you did so because you wanted to find enjoyment in dueling. I don't think Academia allowed such fun," says Yuya
"I remember you taught me Fusion summoning. You could have said no and made me weak. Easier for Academia to take. When you taught me, you clearly enjoyed it. I could see the pride at feeling accomplished on your face. I want to grow strong and pay the favour back. You may have done bad things, but I don't believe your a bad person. You must only believe because you felt it gave you a purpose. Tatsuya, Ayu and Futoshi would also love to have you back," adds Yuzu
"Y-you don't know me!"
"But your not hiding it. You look uncertain no matter how much you deny it. Let's go Yuya and Yuzu. But here is your deck. You may think I am stupid letting you free so easily, but the choice is all yours. And Academia is coming with a big fleet by the way so we are fighting on the frontlines for home defence."
Christopher places Sora's deck on a drawer and even a lollipop. Then he leaves and tells the guards to let Sora go if he leaves. Only to engage if he attacks anyone. Meanwhile Sora picks up his deck and is about to head out, but he stops to think.
"This should be easy. Their coming and will sweep the Standard Dimension, but Yuya and Yuzu. I can keep them safe and remain loyal right? No because that goes against orders. But orders can be bended right? Right?"
His dilemma eats him internally and chooses to go back to his bed rather than leave immediately.
(Reiji's Office, Standard)
As the three enter, in addition to their group, both defeated contestants and current contestants of the Maiami Championship are also present. They are the 8 Youth Division folks, the 4 Knights, Teppei, Michio, Hokuto, Masumi, Yaiba, Halil, Olga, Taka, Nagi, Mieru, Moon Shadow, Sun Shadow, and Shingo Sawatari.
"You three have finally arrived," says Reiji
"Yuya. Late as always," comments Shingo
"Shingo Sawatari! I was the one who gave permission to be late. Do not interrupt me."
Shingo Sawatari would keep his mouth shut for now.
"I will get to the point. I gather you all as you have proven yourselves worthy of becoming Lancers. More specifically as our Commanders. Academia is coming and will hit us at some point today. In addition to you all, I have recruited many duelists who took up the offer and will serve as our infantry. In addition, my role will be the President of the Lancers. Commander-in-Chief and I have the final say. Christopher is my right-hand and viceroy on the battlefield. He is the Governor General of Lance Defence Force. My most loyal viceroy."
"I like the Governor General label. It's what I had back home for a viceroy. I also believe it is best to ask Serena what their tactics will be."
"As a defector, I know how they operate. Because Standard has the weakest duelists on average compared to others, they will likely try to send a bunch of Osiris Red students to go full force. With a decent strategy, all of us could handle many of them at once since we actually are competitive duelists instead of casual ones. While some of us actually have experience. This worked in Heartland because they too had many causal duelists that could not properly defend themselves in such an urgent matter. Synchro is rough as Commoners would be able to hold their own while the Link Dimension is far more advanced. In addition to those red students, R Yellow ones would be with them headed by Obelisk Blue and Obelisk Force members. They are stronger although Ra Yellow really only has is some removal and battle traps compared to Osiris Red who many don't even run them. I any, a playset of one removal or battle trap. My biggest concern are the Royal Fusion Purple members. They do not necessarily wear purple and by far the biggest threats. That is why all of you have been getting powerful tech cards. If you find one, isolate them and let your infantry to hold everyone back. They are no jokes and taking them out will be major blows because Academia cannot replace them as easily."
"Remembering the invasion, I could see this strategy as initially they sent a bunch of red students. Once much of the city was wiped, I saw others rapidly replace them. I suspect for occupation reasons," says Shun
Yuto and Ruri agree.
"Mieru. Use your fortune telling skills to locate where we should be stationed and if other countries will be hit," says Christopher
"Alright. One moment."
Mieru begins to set herself up and focuses. After a minute, she anwsers.
"Seems they are going for a boxed in strategy. There is a force each coming through the North, Northeast, Northwest, South, Southeast, Southwest, East and West. I do not see anywhere getting hit. According to a vision I had, the goal is to destroy Maiami and to clear of threats before moving elsewhere while preventing escape. The invasion also starts at 2:30pm. We do not have very long."
"Reiji. What type of action fields do you have in mind?"
"I was originally planning on a Jungle, Iceberg, Ancient Ruins, and Volcano."
"Sounds good. For the this quadrant of city where we are, use Iceberg. Volcano should be behind it. Beside Volcano is Ancient Ruins and that leaves Jungle for the last spot. Should I assign the locations as well Reiji?"
"Go ahead."
"Serena, myself, Olga and Halil will take Iceberg. Shadow Brothers, Yuya, Yuzu, Taka, and Nagi will take Volcano. Teppei, Michio, Gonegzaka, Mieru, Sawatari, Yaiba and Hokuto take Jungle. For Ancient Ruins that will be the Four Knights, Masumi, Kurosaki siblings, Yuto, Yugo and Rin. As for our eight Youth members, two per group."
"Hold on. There are only three others helping you Christopher," says Yuya
"Why can't I be with my darling?" asks Mieru
"We are the LDS Trio yet Masumi is separated," adds Hokuto
"Enough all of you. I have a card that hard counters infantry. Mieru, I rather not have you and Yuzu fighting in front of people who will literally kill you. Masumi has a better environment in Ancient Ruins. Plus Teppei and Michio have bad matchups against Obelisk Force so I need more people. Actually you know what, I will add the Four Knights to your group just to be safe. Have enough powerhouses there. Also with all the data I given, if you have not yet, get your staples. For your infantry, they will be divide up based on need. Give them staples as they are casual duelists after all. If you see any other duelists join, let them since we can use all the help we can get. Even Sora as I gave his deck back. Now one may think it was a dumb move, but at worse he returns to Academia without fighting anyone. At best he joins us. Yuya and Yuzu is why is so conflicted. As for the Bracelet Girls and Dragon Boys, very important to keep together. Boys protect the girls. Girls, keep Zarc in check. I will simply fill in the empty role for Serena."
"While carding is an option to eliminate Academia, I know not all of you will be able to handle such an action. I am not a fan either, but I understand if some of you do. As an alternative, I have a shock feature that can disable their duel disks. And with a last minute addition, a duel net. You can tie them up to be carded by another or leave them out of combat. It will also disable their return feature so they will be stranded here. If you have the mental capacity to card, see Christopher. Your infantry will get both. Including the police force."
"Another thing is Master Rule Revision. It will grant the Extra Monster Zone. It also will give 8000 LP which will shut down burn strategies from Academia infantry. I moved the Pendulum Scales back to their original zones. There is catch, Pendulum monsters from the Extra Deck must be summoned to the EMZ or a zone a Link arrow points to unless a monster with the same archetype is in a scale. The Extra Deck for Standard duelists will be unlimited. This is to be line with Academia so cram as many weak unusable monsters in the Extra Deck if you want to use a certain two Pot cards. Though I don't think really any of us do."
(Outside LDS, Standard)
With the exception of the Shadow Brothers, Gongenzaka, Yuya, Yuzu and Mieru, everyone gets carding installed. Reiji sends updates to the infantry with most adopting carding. While outside, Yoko and Shuzo are waiting."
"Mom."
"Dad."
Yuya and Yuzu run up and hug them.
"You two. We will fight with you. If this city falls, we will rather fall with you two as family!" declares Yoko
"I am fired up and show Academia what You Show is all about!" adds Shuzo as his fiery aura lights around him
"Well then you two, I do request something. Can you drive the Ancient Ruins group over first. The Volcano group is where Yuya and Yuzu will be, but the Shadow Brothers can quickly get everyone over. We still have time. Do avoid the main roads as traffic is still notable due to poor evacuation. So bad that many bus companies were called just to cram as many as possible."
Christopher tosses the bus keys to Shuzo and the two parents nod.
"Gather up everyone. Whatever happens and no matter who falls, never give up! We are in this together! If Academia comes swinging hard, defeating them would be a huge blow to their numbers and morale! Focus on the reds! Reference time! Always we will fight as one! Till the battle is won and evil is on the run! We'll never come undone! Forever fight as one! Assembled we are strong! Forever fight as one! Lancers Assemble!"
And so, the Commanders head off although Yuzu asks Christopher a question.
(Volcano Area, Standard)
While they are waiting on the infantry and Academia, Yuzu spots Yuya put on his goggles.
"Yuya. Your stressed right?"
"I am Yuzu. Dueling should be for smiles, but we have to use it to fight. This goes against everything dad said. What would he think of me?"
"I am as well. I grew up with you and his style of dueling. I am sure he will be fine if your forced too be serious as long as you never forget to smile. I asked Christopher question by the way."
"What did you ask?"
"I asked him what to think of you because I figured you would feel down."
"What did he say?"
"He says that initially he had a lot of issues with your beliefs. After getting to know you, while he says you can't make everyone smile, he appreciates it from a morale perspective. That this war will be hard on everyone that sometimes we need a mental break. And having someone like you to help us brighten up in our darkest days will go a long way. I know some of your OG cast has been taken out of your deck like Discover Hippo due to them not being suited, but he said to use them outside battle for entertainment. Because that is what your dad would do. In fact you wanting to put a smile on others is a reason I fell for you."
"Yuzu...Yuzu!"
Yuya hugs Yuzu tightly and cries.
"I don't want to lose you!"
"Yuya. Neither do I. I love you," says Yuzu as she sobs as well due to the stress finally getting to her
The two give each other a lengthy kiss and shortly after they separate, the infantry and Yoko and Shuzo arrive. One of their units come up to them.
"Reiji said to trust you two. Even if you two lack any experience, we will all do our best to protect Maiami."
"Thanks," answers Yuzu
"Yuya. I used to be part of a gang before I met your father. Fair to say I know a few tricks. And of course Shuzo has a lot of energy so he can keep up."
"Mom. You and Shuzo should take these spare cards. They are what Christopher call staples. They should help," says Yuya
Over with our ninja brothers, they decide to strategize.
"Our one turn combo will be reserved for big threats," says Sun Shadow
"I agree brother. We can play more risky if it means taking out many of our opponents. We want to take many of them out," says Moon Shadow
"My biggest concern is many citizens still have not left. We should also try our best to keep non-duelists safe."
"Absolutely Sun Shadow."
Our last pair Taka and Nagi sit closer to the outskirts with plans of either intercepting aggressively or isolate a high ranking duelist to take them out. Thus, causing command issues.
(Ancient Ruins, Standard)
The Xyz trio spend their last moments of peace.
"This is our moment to avenge our fallen comrades Shun," says Yuto
"Indeed it is. I am going to rain down hell on them all. But I am interested in those Purple members. Taking them out will be the best thing we could do," says Shun who then looks at Ruri "I am surprised you adopted the carding feature. Is something wrong?"
"I won't deny it. I have issues with it that I am unsure if I could even do it. But I want to protect Yuto and you."
"Little sis. Don't worry about. I will bear the burden for you."
Yuto kisses Ruri's cheek "And so will I songbird."
"Yuto. Your making me blush."
"It made you feel better. Even I need to get back at you."
Shun just smiles at the pair. Ruri takes a card out from her deck.
"Little Fairy. Sayaka's card. Christopher said he traded for it with her before the invasion due to a note he left with it. I will not use this card at least right now. But I will cherish it."
"Sayaka. I hope she is doing okay. Her sister Kotori is a nurse so I suspect they are doing best to help the Resistance," says Yuto
Shun has a somber look and says "One of biggest regrets will always be when I knocked that card out of your hands. At the time, I couldn't understand what Sayaka was doing. No it was more than that. After losing you, it made me even angrier. But meeting Yuya and the others interact and reuniting with you, has changed me. I now understand what Sayaka was doing. Looking back, I never apologized. I am sorry Ruri for that day. I know I can be tense, but that crossed the line. I failed as a big brother."
Ruri hugs her brother tightly and forgives him "I forgive you. I don't want you to feel it eat you inside any longer. You and Yuto are my family. I don't want to lose either of you."
After they separate, Yuto sees his a card glow in his Extra Deck and takes it out.
"Dark Rebellion. What?!"
"What's wrong Yuto?" asks Ruri
"Dark Rebellion's effect changed. The attack gain is permanent and I no longer have to target just level 5 monsters. Could this be due to Zarc?"
Yuya himself would also see his Odd-Eyes change to having the TCG/OCG effects. Ruri would attempt to put Little Fairy in her deck box. However, after she closes the case, her bracelet briefly blinks and returns the card to her Main Deck.
Yugo and Rin have some time alone. Yugo is currently sitting on the ground and analyzing his cards while Rin sits on their D-Wheel to do so.
"All these hand traps are good. Though some I know for sure I will not use as they won't work for our current scenario. What do you think Rin-Rin?"
"I really like Ghost Mourner. Also a WIND tuner so never a total brick."
"I think I got it. Just need to put these ones in. Also doing Ghost Mourner. I say it is best I put back on my riding suit."
Yugo suits himself up. Rin admits internally she is jealous she doesn't have one.
"Rin-Rin. We are going to so kick ass today. I know it."
"Don't get ahead of yourself. We still need to be careful. Sure we could card them, but we must win."
"Yeah I know. No need to nag. Clear minds will help us. And how can I not be positive fighting with my best friend?"
"Alright Yugo. I always like that you never want to give up. I almost got taken and will never let that happen again so I can be by your side forever. But I wish you saw me more than just a friend. I want to be so selfish that you only want to look at me and ignore other girls."
"Something wrong Rin-Rin? Your staring."
"It's nothing. I was lost in my thoughts."
"Alrighto Rin-Rin. I hope I can prove myself to Rin. I love her so much."
Masumi is sitting on a ruin and thinks to herself.
"I have come this far. Professor Marco taught me how to Fusion Summon. I will build upon what he taught me. Hokuto also gave me a Gem-Knight Pearl with a card called Retort Xyz. This should help. Whatever these invaders want, I refuse to let them. Give them a taste of their own medicine by carding them. And I also hope Yuzu doesn't lose because even in death, I will hunt her down for losing. Time to group up now. I hope Yaiba and Hokuto are alright."
(Jungle Area, Standard)
The group here opts for a more centralized strategy by sticking together. Teppei, Michio, Gonegzaka, Mieru, Sawatari, Yaiba and Hokuto
"I the man Gongenzaka will take the front-lines. If Serena is right, my monsters can wall off many of the red and yellow students at once."
"My group and I will join you. It is our duty as knights," says Charles
"Obviously as the best dueltainer, I will be there in case things go south," says Sawatari
The group ignores his comment due to finding it too irrelevant to complain.
"If I have to, good thing I have my wooden katana," adds Yaiba
"I was cornered once by Academia that Christopher had to bail me out so I hope to redeem myself here," says Hokuto
"Glad to see your arrogance is toned down since when you lost to Yuya."
Hokuto goes to a corner and has a depressed aura
"Come on. We need you to focus.
"What I want is my reward for helping Reiji Akaba. I will be so famous that surely he will give me Pendulum Summoning," thinks Teppei
"Based on my predictions, they will be coming from the outskirts," says Mieru
Everyone nods in understanding and then Michio provides everyone with sandwiches.
(Iceberg Area, Standard)
Christopher has ordered to carve out trenches for cover. He and Halil's FIRE monsters are also summoned to generate heat. An infantry unit also hands 3 copies of a card to Serena for her to use.
"Remember everyone! They outnumber us so attack first to get turn one. We have to hit them hard and large amounts to destroy their morale! And maybe I can take out Yuri."
"Christopher."
"Yes Serena."
"Can you not card Yuri if you beat him?"
"I cannot guarantee anything. Is that why you added the other feature?"
"Yes. I can give it to you. I want to talk to him. There is still good inside him. I know it."
"I hate to break it to you, but he is long gone. If you saw how he acted, I say Zarc also corrupted him beyond repair."
"Just consider it at least."
Christopher gains the ability for her sake. He will see how things go. To change the mood, he asks about her new cards."
"So what about your new cards? What do they do?"
"Just something to let me attack multiple times."
"While we are here. Considering that the war has to come to an end at some point, what would you like to do not dueling related?"
"I am unsure. Maybe to perform like my Moonlights. Not to an audience, but just for my amusement. I learnt about it from Yuri."
"I am sure Yuya and Yuzu would know something about it if your still interested. I still hope to go back home and continue to grow my career. The others may be saddened after I am forced to leave, but good thing they have others at least."
"Sounds about right."
LAST WARNING! Please evacuate Maiami City. If you fail to do so, your life is at risk and you must seek immediate shelter, fight with the Lancers or run! This is not a drill!
"Alarm is going off. Maybe should have done that first thing to make those evacuating move faster. After all, their stuff will be fine," says Christopher as he sees people loading on boats by the docks
"If your going to refuse, at least come out and fight. Just saying."
"Probably at most we will get the police force once they finish evacuating many people. Also really difficult when there is so many people. I also wonder where Kaiba is."
"No idea."
"Perhaps he went to get more help."
Christopher hears something in his head
"Head to this building."
"I am heading to that building further out. Vantage point. Come with me if you wish. But I should let the others know of something I can do."
"What is it?"
"There is something in the Link Dimension that allows us to create avatars. When under these fields I can use it. I have yet to as I was waiting for this moment. Took some inspiration from my Link Dimension bestie Soulburner because we each have FIRE aces. And they call me The Chef From Hell."
"What do you mean?"
Christopher activates his duel disk and confirms his avatar setting. Serena watches as his physical appearance changes from bottom to top. Armour designed like Final Sigma starts to form on him with a reverse colour scheme and the arms also are fully covered. A black leathery material covers the inside and his hands. On his torso, legs and arms, the spiky components are missing. A chef coat appears on his torso alongside chef pants on his lower half. His head is the same shape as Final Sigma, but lacks the tusks, spiked top and chin. A flaming chef toque forms on his head. Last, but not least, a belt forms his waist which contains various of knives inside sheaths. He begins to speak which has a robotic undertone to it.
"So what do you think?"
"I want to join in on the cool shit. What does it do for you though?"
"Mostly just looks. Does provide protection against the environment since LINK VRAINS is dangerous so I decided to have armour in case I fall from a high height or get launched into a building which falls on me. I can also cook virtual food if I want to. This also allows me to materialize my D-Board. But first let's tell the others.
After telling his group that is him, they are surprised to learn of such technology. He and Serena head off. But he then says he has a shortcut and calls forth his D-Board. It is the same design as Soulburner, but the black pad is white with the rest being orange. He steps on it and connects himself to it. But his position is not centred for one reason
"Hop on. Despite the lack of any form of safety, our models attach you to the board so you won't ever fall off."
Serena steps on and feels herself unable to fall off. That is when Christopher sends them flying.
"Enjoy it while you can. Probably won't be able to do this too often."
(Domino City, Standard)
"Seto. Who did you call?" asks Mokuba
"Formidable duelists. Although one is a third rate duelists with a fourth rate deck. But he will still be useful."
A limo pulls up and out comes Anzu, Jounouchi, Honda, Bakura, Rishid, Marik, Ishizu, and Pegasus. Like Kaiba, are all older by 10 years. Pegasus is 12 years older however. Those from DSOD wear their respective causal clothes and Rishid lacks any markings on his face.
"You all arrived. We have some important business to discuss inside."
Kaiba gathers the group inside into one of KaibaCorp's meeting rooms.
"I don't think I need to explain the crisis in Maiami City."
"Of course Kaiba Boy. I got your message. From what you told me, you gathered us because we are capable duelists who can help push back the invaders."
"Correct. Reiji Akaba has a defence force already, but while many of Academia's forces are total jokes, we can do some serious damage. The most important thing is attacking multiple times. No point in strategy when your goal is to taking out many weaklings at once. There are big threats and they are Commanders. That is when strategy is important. Pegasus and I have designed some new cards to use for us. Data we obtained from an individual named Christopher has made printing much faster."
"Why yes. This data is very useful. I made myself some new Toon and Sacrifice cards"
"I also have cards for the others."
"Sweet. Didn't think you would change your views on me," says Jounouchi
"If the world was not in danger, there would be no presents for you."
"Hey!"
"Let's not get too riled up. We have to save that energy for later," adds Anzu
"I have found many volunteers to join us as many in our city are very motivated to fight due to our dueling culture. We will also will head there on my company issued helicopters."
(Neighbouring city, Standard)
Tatsuya, Ayu and Futoshi can be seen watching live footage of everyone in combat. They only hope for the best.
(Outskirts, Standard)
4 Osiris Red students first arrive and analyze the environment. They send back data about the environments. Unfortunately for one of them who enters in the Volcano Area, Nagi and Taka jump on him. He is swiftly defeated and carded as Berserk Gorilla and a set Jar of Greed was all he played for his turn. Portals begin to open and many duelists from Academia start arrive. Ryo, Jun, Johan, Tyranno, Yuri, Dennis, Jim, Austin, and Cronos are among them as their Commanders. Although Dennis has intentions on sneaking around to infiltrate. Jun and Tyranno will take the Jungle Area. Johan, Jim and Cronos will take Ancient Ruins. Yuri and Dennis in Iceberg. Lastly, Ryo and Austin in Volcano. They each have a horse. Among their ranks include the entire remaining Osiris Red population of 899 units. Including 250 Heavy Calvary units. Followed by 600 split with 250 Ra Yellow, 20 Ra Yellow Heavy Calvary, 150 Obelisk Blue, 30 Obelisk Blue Heavy Calvary, 100 Obelisk Force units and 50 Obelisk Force Light Calvary. Their musicians all wear red, white helmets with red crosses and only wield their instruments plus first aid kits. They are the youngest and are not combat ready. Only being 10-12 years old. Their only purpose is to keep morale up and tend to any injuries among any of the duelists. A lot of them are pretty fresh on the battlefield with many looking to use this as an opportunity for promotion.
On the Lancers side, in addition to their Commanders. They have way less numbers, but have a higher amount of strong individuals.
(Iceberg Area, Standard)
Christopher pulls out a telescope and analyzes the army from afar. He takes concerned at Maiami citizens that failed to evacuate, quickly run back into the city.
"Bloody hell. I need to engage with like as many of those red students at once if we are to win. And that calvary is concerning because that is psychological warfare. I also spy those with instruments. Take a look Serena."
"Well shit. We have to tell the others."
"Hmmm. Weird question, but this may help. How did Academia describe how carding works?"
"They said that it was programmed to latch on to whatever organic material it is directed at and manipulate it's matter. The effect can be negated if the target wears a duel disk. Even an outdated model. Something to do with duel power. Until said target loses."
"You said organic material and they are riding something clearly alive."
"Wait. I actually never thought about that. There never was a need to card horses after all. But there are still so many of them."
"I take it they attack in lines."
"Yes."
"We will do the same if they attack us with one. It is snowy here so we may get one, but it probably be deeper into the city where the ground is more snowy rather than the icy cliffs by the shoreline. Should have been called Snowberg though. Jungle is too crowded, but Volcano and Ancient Ruins are the most vulnerable."
Christopher calls Yuya, Gongenzaka and Shun
"Hey it's me. Disregard my avatar. Just a Link Dimension quirk. Okay so I see a lot of horses or calvary. I talk to you two as your areas are the most vulnerable due to environment. My area is harder to move in while the Jungle is too closed. What I propose is to line everyone up and use either the carding or capture feature on the horses themselves. This will knock the riders over. Maybe even taking them out to de-arm."
"Calvary charges are new to me as Heartland was overrun too early to matter. I will tell the others."
"Good. Yuya. This will take a toll on someone like you for sure, but remember to smile. There are instrument players on the other side to give morale. You are our biggest source of it. Never forget what your father taught you. You have a net system as well. While a stretch, maybe you could even get some to defect. Gongenzaka. I doubt one will happen in your area, but just use the same methods if they somehow do."
Christopher ends the call and turns to Serena.
"I suspect they will try to box us in rather than appear in random locations. Smart actually since we are prepared and could take out spread out units more easily as opposed to now where we will need to hit multiple units in large amounts. Not to mention morale as staring down a large army can be nerve racking. It doesn't help many of our units are just average folks and crime being so low means the police here also never really faced anything serious. I called for backup to the Link Dimension so hopefully they give us reinforcements."
"By the way, why do you know so much?"
"Been out in nature a lot and having a military friend teaches you pointers. I am also much older than everyone else."
(Ancient Ruins Outskirts, Standard)
"Remember. We are to strike hard, but in order to do this, we must have a lot of discipline. Solid Vision is active right which means destroying everything will be a negative for us because we are blocking our paths. We will attack in lines. If you encounter a duelist, engage. Card anyone unarmed. Do not break formation. As for our calvary. You will charge at the main group. You will also be our first to attack. Musicians, play as hard as you all can," commands Jim
"I will stay back for clean up," says Johan
"As for me, I will march with our ground infantry headfirst nanone," adds Cronos
"For Academia!" they all yell
(Jungle Area Outskirts, Standard)
"Your all soldiers built for war! Standard doesn't know what is coming! We may not have much calvary, but I am an expert at traveling jungles," says Tyranno
"Tch. If that fails, you have the the great Manjome Thunder to save us."
"Don't get ahead of yourself solider Jun."
"Commander Manjome."
"Okay Commander Manjome. As for all of you soldiers, spread out and move slowly! Be aware at all times!"
Their units begin to spread and move deep into the Jungle Area
(Volcano Area Outskirts, Standard)
"I am staying behind Austin. I am not wasting the Cyber Style on anyone unworthy unless I have to."
"Fine with me Ryo. This area is perfect for my deck. Although some zones will need to be ignored by the calvary. That lava will scare the horses."
"Indeed."
"Alright my forces! Calvary, speed on forward! Infantry, forward and march!"
The musicians begin to play their songs as the infantry marches deep into the area as their calvary gallop their way in.
(Iceberg Area Outskirts, Standard)
"I think I will move over to the Volcano area to sneak in. Such a shame I could not join the tournament, but Professor's orders. Will you handle things fine alone Yuri?"
"I could reduce your lifepoints to zero faster than you can ask that again Dennis. Everyone here will be boring so I will sit out for much of it unless I find a certain someone who I feel like winning against."
"Maybe you can even find Serena?"
Yuri's face darkens and Dennis swore he saw Yuri's eyes flicker purple
"I never want to hear a word from you about that traitorous bitch or else I will card you."
"My mistake. As for that mysterious duelists, I think you will have fun."
Yuri switches back to his usual self immediately.
"Of course. I have a score to settle. Their interference just tells me I am going to enjoy my duel because I know I will win."
The pair order their Obelisk Force members to command their divisions and also inform them to be prepared to fight Dennis just for show.
This truly will be a battle. The Dragon Boys, Bracelet Girls, Christopher and many others taking charge against an established military. They may have a smaller and weaker army, but have more individuals with high power. A lot of pressure is on them because a city as populated as Maiami could only evacuate so many at once.
Well that is a wrap. Nearly 15k words. I think my best chapter yet. I have a lot going on and chapters will take time as I want to have good quality ones out. Especially after my blunders earlier. This chapter also had world building and I am shrinking the size of every dimension, but Standard. Which is to further represent Standard being this big tent of things. I also chose Italian as a 2nd language for Fusion because the City that is there is based on Venice. So the Fusion Dimension is located by an Italy clone that also speaks Japanese. I am not too sure. As for legacy characters, some will join the cast. Seto Kaiba being a guarantee with the way I wrote him in. I am thinking of changing my mind and having the other Signers (minus Yusei) in Synchro. Still not a lot to give other legacy characters more moments. After all, Synchro really dragged on longer than it should. Yes I also am formalizing Academia into more of a real army just to make them a bigger threat. As for chapters, I say my goal is now at least 14k words for main chapters. With a large cast, I will need a lot of words to develop them. Especially my character who I have a lot planned for. And yes you can say Ray is also pulling strings to have him and Serena bond due to the lack of Yuri. Serena will also learn some English for sure. Maybe enough to troll the others with TCG names. As for Reiji and carding. Important to note that he did not care too much that many fell in canon. He is a pragmatic individual and will ultimately do whatever it takes to save his city and stop his father. Anyways, see you all in the next chapter.