Card of the Day: Brron, Mad King of Dark World

Episode 122: Triangle Shadow Game!

In a dark, dusty bar, jukebox music is playing as "Neo" sits at the bar, drinking from a bottle. He puts it down and sighs.

Sigma: Hey kid, not to sound pushy or something, but shouldn't you….I dunno, talk to those guys or something?

Neo: I don't want to talk to them. All they'll do is accuse me of being this Neo person again. I just don't want to do that again.

Sigma: Eh….whatever. I'm just a voice in your head. But you know…

Neo: Leave me alone!

Man: That kid over there is talking to himself.

Woman: Just ignore him.

Elsewhere, at a nearby table, a man is flipping over cards and grins as he flips over a card that oozes darkness.

Opening

At the usual booth, Axel looks as Alicia has an order of fries in front of her. Tamika hits him in the face.

Tamika: Would you quit drooling over her food?

Axel: Stuff it! I can't afford to eat out like this! Besides, she's just letting it sit there getting cold!

Alicia: I don't get it….why does he keep pretending that he doesn't know us? It just doesn't make any sense.

Axel: Hey, can I…

Alicia slides the fries over. He snickers and grabs a giant handful, chewing them all up. Tamika scowls at him and elbows him.

Axel: Hey!

Tamika: Knock it off. Alicia doesn't want to see you stuff your face.

Axel: Hey, I didn't have lunch yet. Besides, if she minded, she would have said something.

Alicia: I still can't wrap my head around it. Why would he say something like that and run off? There must be a reason.

Tamika: Look Alicia, we get how much you want this guy to be Neo, but you have to consider the possibility that he isn't.

Axel: Yeah, and if we keep bothering him, he's going to call the police on us. If he is the same guy, he'll come at his own leisure.

Alicia: No, there's something else going on. And I'm going to get to the bottom of it!

Tamika: Alicia….sorry, but we won't help you anymore.

Alicia: What do you mean?! Neo's our friend! Aren't you going to do anything?

Axel: Look, we've done all we could. Either we're mistaken or he isn't interested. Either way, he isn't going to just be our friend like that. Life just doesn't work like that.

Alicia: Fine. But I'm not giving up. Things will work out for the best. I know it. And if you won't help, sit here and get fat on those fries!

She storms off as Axel watches.

Axel: Says her. She was the one who ordered them.

Tamika: That's not the point. She's going to do something she'll regret. Jeez, she and Yusuke are more alike than they state to be.

Axel: Hey, come to think of it, where is Yusuke?

In a jail cell, Yusuke speaks to someone through a glass window.

Yusuke: I'm only going to ask you one more time.

Armen: And I'm only going to answer one more time. Why should I tell you anything?

Yusuke: You're going to answer my question! Is it possible for Neo to come back? Like, in some sort of second body?

Armen: How should I know? It's been a long time since I made Project Sigma.

Yusuke: Answer me! Is it possible?!

Armen: You are so obnoxious. I told you, I don't know. I only built one body for Neo. Of course, I never built them myself. It could be a prototype, or a model I intended to use later. Either way, he's not the Neo you knew before.

Yusuke: I refuse to believe that. The Neo I know will make sure to keep his heart.

Armen: …You really don't get it, do you? He's NOT like a human. He was a program. If this new Neo is a prototype, his memories of you would not be inside him. If he was a second model, he never even would have met you. The friend you know is gone forever, maybe not physical….but mentally.

Yusuke: Damn it! Talking to you is a waste of time! I'm leaving.

Armen: You are quite a puzzle. Out of all the people I've encountered, you are by far the strangest. It's so…imperfect.

Yusuke: Yeah? Well go look in the mirror. That's imperfection if I ever saw it.

He walks off. Armen looks away and turns to the bars as his red eye glows vaguely. In the square, Neo walks around.

Sigma: Hmph? Hey, what's with the leaderboard?

Neo: What do you mean?

He walks over to the leaderboard. People are crowded around as a message has been pasted to the leaderboard.

Kid: Hey, what's with this?

Man: Someone didn't have to leave a message here on the board. It ruins it. Not to mention the message makes no sense. Tonight, the warf? How s anyone supposed to know who it's for or who it's from?

Sigma: You getting the same sinking inkling that I am?

Neo: Jeez. I told those guys I was done with them.

Sigma: So let's just ignore it. That'll really show those morons, huh!?

Neo: No…I'll go.

Sigma: Can I ask why?

Neo: If it'll get them to leave me alone….I'll do anything at this point.

Sigma: …Jeez, whatever. Do as you please kid. I'm just trying to spare you pain.

Neo looks down and walks off. The man in the cloak grins and follows him. In a dark room, 10 of the seats are taken.

Tiger: You're kidding. AGAIN?

Faust: The Father is sick. He needs time to rest.

Pig: Rasputin must be taking care of him. How sweet.

In a dark room with stain glass window, Vergil is coughing, vomiting into a bucket filling with blood. Rasputin stands by the side with a concerned look as Vergil shivers.

Vergil: Another…injection…

Faust: In the meantime, we must resume business.

Horse: Not that I am complaining, but why are you leading the discussion? I thought you hated doing stuff like this.

Faust: Believe me, I do. But a direct order from the Father is one I will not refuse. The only matter I really feel like discussing is the disappearance of Grendel.

Snake: Grendel eh? If you ask me, he went out to prove himself. After all, he went on and on about joining the Inner Circle and we turned him down.

Dog: This could be a problem. The Crossed Brotherhood never officially gave him an assignment. If the Father catches wind of it…

Rabbit: I think it'll be fun. Let's see the fireworks.

Ox: Oh yeah. Grendel's had it coming for a long time. I want to see him get punished.

Horse: Now, let's not get too hasty here. After all, he is a comrade. No one wants to speak ill of a comrade.

Faust: …I agree. Unless he proves to be an issue, we'll stand and watch. If so…we'll stop him where he stands.

At the docks, Alicia sits watching the water. A few seconds later, Neo sits down next to her.

Neo: This is an odd place for a meeting.

Alicia: I thought it would be fitting. We went here once, as a party before the ROFGP..

Neo: Sorry, you must have me mistaken for someone else.

Alicia: You're still playing that angle are you?

Neo: I'll keep playing that angle. There's nothing I have to hide. All I speak is the truth. Why is that so hard for you to accept?

Alicia: What can I say? There are just some things I can't let go. I knew there's something more to this story. I will get to the bottom of it. No matter what it takes?

Neo: ….Fine. I'll fight you one last time. But this time, you will leave me alone.

Alicia: I was hoping for that. Let's d…

Suddenly, dark fog appears. Neo and Alicia look confused as Neo tenses.

Sigma: Whoa….getting some funky signals here.

???: Meh heh. Finally found you.

The man steps forward, grinning. Neo and Alicia look horrified as he approaches. A dark circle surrounds all there and releases a cloud of darkness.

???: This is just what I was hoping to see. Two souls, ready for Harvesting.

Alicia: You…you're one of the Crossed Brotherhood!

Neo: Hold on! What's going on?!

Alicia: This guy is an enemy. Neo, we need to fight him!

Neo: what?! I didn't sign up for this! No way!

???: Too late. Grendel does not want his enemy escaping so easily. I will not allow such a thing. Once the Shadow Game has begun, there's no escape.

Sigma: He's right kid. Something is going on here. We might not have a choice.

Neo: Damn it….are you kidding? Alright, no choice.

Alicia: Here we go Neo. We have to win.

Grendel: That's the spirit. We'll follow Triangle Duel rules.

All 3: Duel! [Neo LP = 4000][Grendel LP = 4000][Alicia LP= 4000].

All over the city, Fate Crystals start to rattle. Everyone looks shocked.

Axel: Don't even tell me…

Grendel: I'll start the duel off if you don't mind. Draw! I set one card. Now I summon Zure, Knight of Dark World [ATK 1800/DEF 1500 LV 4]. You go.

Neo: A Dark World deck? This shouldn't be any trouble. I draw. I summon Vylon Hapt [ATK 1800/DEF 800 LV 4]. I set two cards and end my turn.

Alicia: Here we go, draw. This is bad. I was only planning to fight Neo, but I have to deal with this Grendel guy now as well. I need to get Neo alone. So Grendel is going to be my first target. Alright, no problem! I draw a card. I summon Armored Guardian of the Treasure in defense mode [ATK 0/DEF 2000 LV 4]. I set a card and end my turn.

Grendel: Hmph. Pitiful. I'll show you how a real duelist battles! Draw! Eh. I use Dark World Dealings. Now we all draw a card and then discard one.

Neo: Our hands are the same number. Why…?

Grendel: Since Broww, Huntsman of Dark World was discarded, I draw a card. And now I use Dark World Lightning. I discard one card to destroy a set card. I choose your Trap, Alicia.

Alicia: Damn…at least my monster is okay.

Grendel: Since Scarr, Scout of Dark World was discarded, I add a level 4 or below Dark World monster to my hand. Now I summon Brron, Mad King of Dark World [ATK 1800/DEF 400 LV 4]. Set card, Dark Core. This lets me discard a card and remove from play one monster. I discard this and remove Guardian from play. And since this monster was discarded, he revives. Come on, Sillva, Warlord of Dark World [ATK 2300/DEF 1400 LV 5]

Alicia: Three monsters!

Grendel: Battle! Brron, Sillva, and Zure attack directly.

Sigma: Whoa! If that hits, it'll be a One- Turn Kill!

Alicia: I use the Trap card, Veil of Heaven. Before it was destroyed, I activated this card. Now all Battle Damage I take this turn is halved [5900/2 = 2950]

All three monsters ram Alicia as a barrier appears. They all spit darkness and she flies back, hitting the shadow wall [Alicia LP = 1050]

Neo: Alicia!

Alicia: !? What's with this pain?

Grendel: Fun, huh? This is the consequence of entering a Shadow Game with me. Girl, prepare to face pain 10 times as intense. I use the power of Brron. Since he dealt damage, you must discard a card.

Alicia: At this rate, I won't have any cards left.

Neo: Not as if I care, but if you want someone to damage, focus on me. I can give you much more of a challenge! Here we go, draw. I summon Vylon Ohm [ATK 1500/DEF 200 LV 4]. I Overlay level 4 Vylon Ohm and level 4 Vylon Hapt.

Ohm and Hapt become lights that fly into a spiral.

Neo: With these monsters, I construct the Overlay Network! Show yourself, Exceed Summon! Recycle Rerhinobot [ATK 2700/DEF 2000 RANK 4]. Battle! Attack Zure!

It roars and charges forward, barreling down the monster. Grendel hisses as the monster's rebound hits him. [Grendel LP = 3100].

Grendel: Exceed monsters….not bad.

Alicia: Thanks, Neo!

Neo: I didn't do it or you. A duelist naturally aims to deal damage. It has nothing to do with another.

Alicia: But Neo…

Neo: Enough. You're as much of my enemy as he is. Once I've beaten him, you're next.

Grendel: What's wrong? Trouble in paradise?

Neo: Mind your business! Before I end my turn, I equip my monster with Vylon Component. Turn end.

Alicia: Alright, here goes. Time to stop playing around. Right now I need a good draw. Here we go! I summon Silent Ninja of the Pond [ATK 800/DEF 600 LV 3]. This monster can wage a direct attack on my opponent. Go, Silent Kunai!

It leaps into the air and tosses the kunai. It speeds by Grendel and he steps back [Grendel LP = 2300].

Grendel: Pfft.

Alicia: Don't "pfft" me! You know that hurt! I set a card and end my turn.

Grendel: This is what you're giving me? I feel bad for getting so pumped. I might as well not even waste time on you losers anymore. Here we go, draw! Heh. Get ready for this! Field Spell, The Gates of Dark World!

A large gate appears. Neo and Alicia look in shock as it begins to creak open.

Neo: I don't know what that thing is, but I won't let you use it! Trap…

Grendel: Trap card, Trap Stun. This negates the effects of all Traps until the end of the turn.

Neo: No…

Grendel: That means the effect of my Gate is still active. As long as this is out, all Fiend type monsters gain 300 attack and defense points. Both my monsters gain a power boost [ATK 2100/DEF 700 LV 4][ATK 2600/DEF 1700 LV 5].

Neo: His monsters keep growing in power…

Grendel: Now I use the power of The Gates of Dark World. I can remove a Fiend type monster from play, and then discard another Fiend type monster to draw a card. Since this monster was discarded, it revives. Come on, Goldd, Wu- Lord of Dark World [ATK 2300-2600/DEF 1400-1700 LV 5]. Battle. Brron attacks your Ninja. This is the end!

Alicia: I use the power of this monster, Last Survivor of the Ruined Paradise. By discarding this, cards cannot affect me. And not only that, the Battle Phase comes to an end right there.

Grendel: But it's still enough to finish you!

Neo: Alicia!

It laughs and cuts through the monster, making it blow up. Alicia screams in pain as she moves towards her Duel Disk.

Alicia: I remove this monster from play. Little Bulb of the Peaceful Forest. When I remove this card, my life points go up by 400 [Alicia LP = 1450].

The claws hit her and send her flying back against the wall, slamming into it as she slides down [Alicia LP = 150].

Grendel: Your loss. That's fine. My Battle Phase comes to an end. But this is only the beginning. I'll feed both your souls to the Underworld.

Neo looks at the wounded Alicia. He shivers as he remembers Yusuke being injured in the battle against Angelo and Diablo. Grendel snickers and begins to laugh as Neo turns to him with a scared look.

To be continued

Baron: Today, we'll be going over The Gates of Dark World. It raises the attack and defense points of all Fiends by 300. Also, by removing and discarding a Fiend, you can draw a card. Soon, you'll be swarmed by Dark World monsters.

He looks around with fear and sees Dark World monsters are surrounding him and laughing. He screams as they jump on him.

Episode 121: Exceed Summon, Vylon Distigma

It is a bright morning. Alicia is racing down the road.

Alicia: Milk, butter, sugar. Milk, butter, sugar. Jeez, mom should have just gone last night. Why do I have to do chores?

She comes to a stop near the square.

Alicia: Hey kids dueling. Guess I'll stop for a bit.

Kid: I attack your monster with Luster Dragon #2!

Other figure: Trap card, Negate Attack!

The attack is repulsed.

Alicia: Hey, these two are pretty good.

Other figure: I Overlay my level 4 Vylon Soldier and level 4 Vylon Charger.

Both turn into lights and fly into a spiral.

Figure: With these two monsters, I construct the Overlay Network. Exceed Summon! Recycle Rerhinobot [ATK 2700/DEF 2000 RANK 4]. Now from my hand, I use Limiter Removal. This doubles the attack points of my Machine monster [ATK 5400/DEF 2000 RANK 4].

Kid: Uh oh!

Other figure: Battle!

It charges forward and rips the monster in tow as the kid falls back [Kid LP = 0]. The other figure laughs and jumps up, his hood falling off. Alicia smiles but then looks shocked. She stands up.

Alicia: N….Neo?!

The figure looks down. He looks just like Neo except with one red eye. He also gasps and steps back.

Alicia: Neo, it is you! What's going on?! Why…why do you still exist?!

She walks forward as Neo turns and runs off, vanishing into the crowd. Alicia puts her arm down and looks confused.

Opening

At the usual spot, Axel stands up.

Axel: Neo?! Are you sure?!

Tamika grabs him and holds a hand over his mouth.

Tamika: Yeah, just broadcast it to the entire world! That's okay!

Axel: Well excuse me for being surprised! What do you mean you saw Neo?

Alicia: Like I said, I'm not even sure if it was him. I saw him. Or someone who looked a like him. He was using Vylon monsters, which made me wonder.

Tamika: Look, you obviously were seeing things. Neo was destroyed during the battle with Armen right? So how could he be back? What did he magically un- blow up or something?

Alicia: I can't explain it, okay? I just get the inkling that he was who I thought he was. Call it a hunch.

Axel: She may have a point. After all, Aslo had transferred his consciousness. Who says Neo didn't?

Tamika: Because when he died, he seemed pretty final about it. Besides, let's say you're right. Why did he run away from you?

Alicia: Well….okay, I haven't really figured that part out yet. Maybe he was scared! That's' it, he was concerned we'd be angry at him for last time!

Tamika: Even if that was the case, you say he used Exceed monsters? Neo always used Synchro monsters. Why would he change his deck so drastically?

Axel: Exceed monsters used to be big, but the fact is you just don't seem them much anymore. Maybe he wanted to be new or different.

Alicia: See, Axel agrees with me!

Tamika: I don't know Alicia….I think you're just trying to convince yourself here. Unless we are over 90% sure, I don't think we should pursue this. I mean, have you even considered what it would do to Yusuke?

Alicia: Actually…that's why I'm talking to you guys first.

Axel: Huh? Why?

Alicia: Neo was Yusuke's good friend. I don't want to get his hopes up only to crush them. So that's why I'm doing some prior investigating. I'll discover if this really is Neo or not. So please, not a word of this to Yusuke.

Tamika: Jeez. If you really think it's a good idea…

Yusuke: What's going on?

Everyone freaks out as he is standing there.

Yusuke: Are you guys okay?

Axel: Hey, we're fine! So uh….what are you doing here?

Yusuke: Well, I WAS hoping to talk to you guys. Dex's mom has been really sad lately. I was wondering if we should go over and try to cheer her up.

Tamika: Sorry, we're busy!

Yusuke: Really? Oh, well maybe later…

Axel: We'll be busy later too!

Yusuke: Seriously, what's going on? You guys are acting strange.

Alicia: You know, lots of work to do! Oh, look at the time! We'd better get to work!

They all take off. Yusuke holds out his arm and pulls it back.

Yusuke: What's with them? Oh well. I guess I'm going by myself…

He slowly turns and walks off. Axel and Tamika look out from behind the building.

Axel: He's really been in a funk lately. With what happened to Dex and everything else going on….

Tamika: ….Fine. We'll help you Alicia.

Alicia: You well?

Tamika: If there's a chance this is Neo, we could really use his help. What do you need us to do?

Alicia: I'm glad you asked! I've got a plan actually.

All over town, duels are going on. Kids are dueling in a square as one attacks Dododo Warrior with Frozen Fitzgerald. Axel drives by and keeps going. Elsewhere, a kid Exceed Summons Daigusto Emeral and destroys his opponent's Elemental Hero Sparkman. Tamika drives by and sighs, shaking her head. Two duelists race down the road as Alternative Fusion combines two monsters into Twin Photon Lizard, only to be destroyed by Solemn Warning. Alicia watches from far away and looks down, driving off. At the booths, the three sit around.

Axel: We've been around the entire city. And no sign of him anywhere.

Tamika: Either you were hallucinating or he doesn't duel much.

Alicia: I don't get it. I thought for sure we'd find him….come on, let's keep going!

Tamika: Well….

Alicia: What?

Axel: Look, we should just give up. I mean, we searched for hours. What, we're just going to find him sitting right next to us?

???: Yum!

Everyone freezes up. Neo is at the next table eating ice cream.

Neo: Extra hot fudge.

He suddenly turns and sees them. They stare at each other and they surround him. He stands up in shock and he looks around when his eyes glow red.

Neo: Hey, what are your problems?! A guy can't enjoy a sundae in peace?!

Tamika: That voice….Sigma!

Sigma: Uh, yeah? Who the hell are you?!

Alicia: Sigma…Neo…it's us!

Neo: You….

He tries to take off as Axel grabs him.

Axel: Oh I know you're not pulling that amnesia crap again.

Neo: Let me go! I don't know you!

Axel: Yeah, sure! That's why you ran away!

Sigma: I ran away because you jumped me you crazy pansies! I don't know you! Now let me go!

Tamika: He sounds pretty convincing. Maybe he's telling the truth.

Axel: I don't buy it. Let's take you to a construction site and make you talk.

Sigma: You people are insane!

Alicia: Wait, before all that….duel me.

Neo: Huh? Duel?

Tamika: What's that going to solve?

Alicia: We dueled Neo to get his memory back before. Maybe we could do it again.

Axel: Are you sure?

Sigma: Sounds like fun!

Neo: Hey, don't I get a say in this?!

Sigma: Nope.

Alicia: I am.

Axel: …Well, whatever. Just don't lose.

Alicia: I won't.

Neo and Alicia stand across from each other.

Neo: What a pain. I just wanted some ice cream.

Sigma: Shut up and duel kid.

Alicia: You ready?

Neo: I guess…

Their Duel Disks activate as Neo's eyes turn all white.

Both: Duel! [Neo LP = 4000][Alicia LP = 4000].

Neo: I'll start! Yes. I set a monster. I set a card and end my turn.

Alicia: A set monster…draw! I summon Strong Holder of the Gauntlet [ATK 1700/DEF 1000 LV 4]. I attack your set monster.

It races forward and crushes it [Shining Angel]. Neo blocks the impact.

Neo: When Shining Angel is destroyed, I can Special Summon a LIGHT monster with 1500 or less attack points. Come on, Vylon Charger [ATK 1000/DEF 1000 LV 4]. Trap card, Miracle's Wake! When a monster was destroyed in battle, it returns. Come on, Shining Angel [ATK 1400/DEF 800 LV 4].

Alicia: Nice job! Is he going for a Synchro Summon? No, if he did, he would have summoned a Tuner monster. I set two cards and end my turn.

Neo: My turn, draw!

Alicia: Synchro Summon?

Neo: …I summon Vylon Decago [ATK 1000/DEF 0 LV 3]. Spell card, Wish Upon a Star. Now since there are two monsters with equal attack points, their levels become equal. Decago becomes level 4 [ATK 1000/DEF 0 LV 4]. I Overlay level 4 Vylon Charger and Shining Angel.

Angel and Charger become lights. They fly into a spiraling galaxy.

Neo: With these two monsters I construct the Overlay Network. Exceed Summon! Come on, Wind- Up Zenmaister [ATK 1900/DEF 1500 RANK 4].

Axel: Exceed Summon!?

Tamika: Why? Decago had less attack points.

Neo: Decago's effect. By removing two Spell or Trap cards, I can destroy two Spell or Trap cards. Shoot em dead!

Alicia: My Traps….

Neo: Zenmaister's power! I remove one Overlay Unit [Unit = 1] to change your monster to defense mode [ATK 1700/DEF 1000 LV 4]. Decago gains 300 attack points for every card destroyed this turn [ATK 1600/DEF 0 LV 4]. Battle! I attack the monster. Deca Fire!

It points and fires 10 times, destroying it.

Neo: And now a direct attack from Wind- Up Zenmaister.

It looks down and extends its fist, punching her in the gut and sending her flying [Alicia LP = 2100].

Alicia: I see….even with Exceed monsters, you're really strong.

Neo: I set a card. At this time, the effects of Decago and Wish Upon a Star cancel out [ATK 1000/DEF 1000 LV 3]. Turn end.

Tamika: His skills haven't gotten rusty. He's as tough as ever.

Alicia: This is my first time really fighting him. He's just as powerful as he looks. But I've faced tougher. Yeah….I can win! Here I go, draw! I summon Power Crusher of the Hammer [ATK 2200/DEF 0 LV 4]. I smash your Exceed monster! Attack, Hammer Smash! That way you can't hurt me.

Neo: Trap card, Reinforced Space. This strengthens the power of an Exceed monster by 300 for each of its Overlay Units. As you can see, I have one [ATK 2200/DEF 1500 RANK 4].

Alicia: Oh no!

Hammer crashes into Zenmaister as it blows up, taking them both out.

Neo: Your monster goes to defense mode anyway. As such, your goal was to eliminate the higher monster and take out the lower one next turn. Don't mess with me! I'm much stronger than that!

Alicia: Damn….I really thought that would work against him. I'd better go back to defense mode. I set a card and end my turn.

In town, Yusuke races down the road.

Yusuke: I wonder where everyone else is. They've been gone all day. Sigh…maybe I'll check the dueling.

He starts to head to the square. Neo's eyes glow red.

Sigma: What are you wasting time on? Finish her!

Neo: Okay, okay! Jeez. I summon Vylon Soldier [ATK 1700/DEF 1000 LV 4]. Battle. Soldier attacks you directly!

Alicia: Trap card, Kunai With Chain! This negates your attack and changes your monster to defense mode [ATK 1700/DEF 1000 LV 4]

Neo: You can't stop my second attack! Get her Vylon Decago.

It fires multiple times, blasting her head [Alicia LP = 1100].

Alicia: Ow….

Neo: Hm….okay! Turn end!

Axel: Man, she's sucking out there.

Tamika: Give her a break. Look at what she's going up against. I can't really say I blame her.

Alicia: It's as I thought, he's just as good as before. Even so….I won't give up! I can't afford to give up after coming so far! I draw! Yes! I set a monster in defense mode as well as a card. Turn end.

Neo: That's all? Unimpressive. Here we go, my turn! I summon Vylon Vanguard [ATK 1400/DEF 1000 LV 4]. Now time to take you out. Come my superior force. Attack her!

Alicia: Trap card, Waboku! This prevents my monsters from being destroyed and all cards affecting me.

Soldier runs into a new monster [ATK 1400/DEF 700 LV 4], who repels its attack.

Neo: That's fine. It won't make a difference. I'll beat you either way. Nothing you can do will beat me!

Alicia: Maybe. But even so, I can't give up!

Neo: Eh?

Alicia: Yusuke is waiting for me to succeed. Anything that makes him happy….is something I want. And your happiness…as well.

Neo: Why?! You don't even know who I am! Why would you do so much for me when you don't even know my real identity!? You're taking a chance that I really am who you know. Why?!

Alicia: I think I already said the reason why. Because if I can help people, by all means, I'll work towards helping them! Draw! I release my Selfless Holder of the Twin Swords to Advance Summon my Warrior Princess Erica [ATK 2500/DEF 1700 LV 7]. When this monster is summoned, I can return all monsters with a lower level than her to the owner's hand. Say goodbye to all your monsters.

Neo: Trap card, Darkening Light. This lets me remove all three of my LIGHT monsters from play.

Tamika: But why?

Alicia: What is he doing…? Whatever! I attack with Warrior Princess Erica.

It leaps into the air and chops the man right down the middle. Neo gasps and falls to one knees in pain [Neo LP = 1500].

Neo: Nice hit….Alicia.

Alicia: Neo…!?

Neo: Sorry. But once again….I'm not who you want me to be. Draw! At this time, my three monsters return [ATK 1000/DEF 0 LV 3] [ATK 1700/DEF 1000 LV 4] [ATK 1400/DEF 700 LV 4]. From my hand, I use Synchro Boost. This raises the level and attack points of Vylon Decago by 1 and 500 [ATK 1500/DEF 0 LV 4]. I Overlay level 4 Vylon Decago, level 4 Vylon Vanguard, and level 4 Vylon Soldier.

A Spiral appears and all three fly in.

Axel: Three monsters?!

Alicia: No way….

Neo: Show yourself! The herald of light, guardian of peace. Show yourself and shine! Vylon Distigma.

A sphere appears and begins to change, growing arms and wings. It glows and roars, releasing light. [ATK 2500/DEF RANK 4].

Axel: Whoa….

Alicia: But…but they have the same attack points!

Sigma: Please! That can't stop our ace monster!

Neo: I remove an Overlay Unit from Distigma [UNIT= 2] to use its power. I can select one of my opponent's monsters and make it an Equip card. Light Hand!

The monster turns into light and is absorbed.

Alicia: No….my monster!

Neo: It's over. Vylon Distigma attacks directly. Light Mirage.

It holds out its hand and light charges up. It crushes the light in its hands and tosses it as a barrage of light energy. Alicia is hit and blasted away [Alicia LP = 0]. Neo slowly deactivates his Duel Disk and walks away.

Alicia: Neo…

Neo: I'm not who you think I am. This was just a mistake.

Yusuke: Neo…

Yusuke is shaking as he walks towards him. Neo looks sad and turns.

Neo: You have me confused for someone else.

Yusuke: Neo!

Neo: I'm….not who you want me to be.

He turns and walks away. Yusuke puts his arm down and falls to his knees, crying. Alicia watches this and turns away as Neo also seems to shed tears, wiping them away.

To be continued

Baron: Today we'll be going over Vylon Distigma. This monster can absorb another by removing an Overlay Unit. Used by Neo….

Neo: Honestly, why do people keep confusing me for this Neo?

Baron: What do you mean? You look exactly like him!

Neo: Actually, if you look, the left side of my hair is 3 centimeters longer than this Neo guy's.

Baron: Eh….come on, how can anyone notice that!?

Hey guys, what's new? Halloween is here yet again. I just dressed as Coyote Stark and stayed home eating candy. How did you guys spend your night of horror?

Episode 120: Riches are Friends

In town, everyone looks up in shock and horror. Dark clouds are swirling around the bank as police run towards the door, only to be knocked back.

Policeman: What is going on?! We can't enter the building!

A helicopter approaches the building from the sky. Something blows off the propeller and the helicopter hurtles towards the ground, the pilot ejecting himself before it crashes.

Chief: Damn it. It's as though there is something that prevents us from entering.

In a dark room, all 11 watch.

Snake: This is better than a movie! Look at them, completely ignorant to the Shadow Game! Little do they know they won't be able to enter the building until it is too late. Mortals never cease to amuse me.

Horse: Yes, but is it okay that they are getting this close to the building? After all, if they uncover our plans things will become…difficult.

Vergil: Brothers, you are far too concerned. There is nothing to fear. Even if they know, nothing they do can stop us. Besides, Edward Teach is but a pawn. No…less than a pawn. If we can use him to capture some pieces, by all means. But if he cannot serve us, there are much better pieces to play.

Axel is racing towards the bank as Dante and Baron both look towards it. Edward is still laughing as his monster is forming from shadows.

Opening

In the duel [Tamika LP = 2000] [Edward LP = 1900], the monster finally turns into a solid form [ATK? /DEF? LV 10]. He has no other cards out as Tamika looks confused with a set card and Skull Flame Dragon boosted by Flare Resonator [ATK 3300/DEF 1500 LV 8].

Tamika: Um….look, I know you're happy about that, but your monster isn't very intimidating. How can I? It's smiling at me.

Edward: Ah yes, playing the brave act. Well I'm sad to say you won't be for long. If the Spells and Traps I removed to summon this monster were cards that allowed me to draw, I draw the number of cards equal to the total number of cards the removed Spells and Traps would let me draw. Pot of Greed is two, Jar of Greed is one, and Reckless Greed is two. Therefore, I draw 5 cards.

Tamika: So that's the reason for all the draw cards! Big deal. Your monster has 0 attack points.

Edward: Not quite. You see, Avarice needs me to discard my entire hand before his effect, but after I draw, he gains 700 attack points for every card in my hand. Look at that, there are five cards in my hand now! [ATK 3500/DEF 0 LV 10].

Tamika: 3500 attack points in just one turn!?

Edward: Do you see? Only through drawing cards can you truly win duels! Greedy King--- Avarice attacks. Desire's Ray!

The mouth on its gut opens and spews a toxic stream. Dragon is hit and roars in pain as it blows up. Tamika screams in pain as the smoke flies by, throwing her against the glass window [Tamika LP = 1800]

Tamika: The hell…?!

Edward: The Harvest has begun. I wonder if your soul will make a good bargaining chip for Father Vergil.

Tamika: My soul…as a bargaining chip? As if. My soul is worth much more than anything you could find.

Edward: Yeah, keep it up. The Underworld eats your soul like candy! Turn end.

Tamika: You talk way too damn much. I'll shut that mouth of yours. Draw! As I thought, he wants to preserve all the cards in his hand. If that's the case, I want to strike quickly and strike fast. I set a monster and a card to end my turn.

Edward: Only playing defense? That won't help you in the long run. Here we go. Battle!

Tamika: Wait, you're not drawing?

Edward: That is the disadvantage to my Avarice. As long as he is on the field, unless it was through a card effect, I am not allowed to draw a card. But with this much power, such a thing isn't necessary! I attack the set monster. Desire's Ray!

The mouth grins again and spits out black fog that hits the set monster. It flips up [Burning Skeleton] and screams as it burns up.

Tamika: Got you! Trap card, Supernova. When a FIRE monster is destroyed as a result of battle, the attacking monster is taken out with it.

Edward: Fool. You think such a thing is going to work against me?! By discarding one card from my hand, the destruction of my monster is negated at the cost of losing 700 attack points [ATK 2800/DEF 0 LV 10].

The monster is engulfed by an explosion and emerges, still grinning and laughing.

Tamika: No way. But you can't draw. That means your monster is limited by the number of cards in your hand.

Edward: Yes, that is the fatal flaw in my monster. But answer me, even if you exploit such a thing, how will you be able to fight back? My monster can negate its destruction four more times. And then you need to destroy it one more time. I know your deck is mainly for dealing damage, not destruction effects. So in other words, there's nothing you can do.

Tamika: Hmph. Keep up the smug attitude. I'll shut you up once and for all once my turn comes around again.

Edward: Oh, I'd love to see that. Go on then, show me your resolve and skill. Turn end!

At the base of the building, Axel comes to a stop and runs up the stairs, banging on the doors.

Axel: Open up already! Damn you, open up!

Alicia: Axel, what's going on?!

Axel: Tamika! Tamika's up there dueling!

Yusuke: Whoa, slow down! Why would Tamika be dueling?

Axel: Well…she's doing a favor for me….

Seth: A favor you say? What kind of favor?

Axel: Well…look, now isn't the time to talk about this! We gotta get in there.

Dante: It's no good.

Yusuke: You're….Dante!

Dante: Nice to see you again. What was I saying? Oh, right! It won't do any good. You see, the Shadow Game has begun. It's not like the previous ones though. This one has a much more powerful aura. A Card of Darkness must have been summoned.

Seth: Who's this guy?

Alicia: He says his name is Dante. We've met.

Seth: Hm…tell me, how do you know so much?

Dante: Call me an expert. I've been looking into this kind of stuff. Anyway, your friend is in a lot of trouble.

Alicia: Well then we need to get up there, right?

Dante: Do you pay attention? It's no good. Once the Shadow Game has begun, there's no stopping it. You better hope your friend has skills. If they don't, there is no way they will be able to win.

Axel: Tamika…damn it. You'd better not lose or else!

Tamika: Here we go, my draw! Trap card, Resonation! If there is a monster with Resonator in its name, I'm allowed to revive it. Come on back, Flare Resonator [ATK 300/DEF 1300 LV 3]. At the end of this turn, the monster I summoned is removed from play. That's not all. I summon Skull Conductor [ATK 2000/DEF 0 LV 4]. Level 4 Skull Conductor tunes to level 3 Flare Resonator.

Resonator becomes 3 rings that Conductor flies through, becoming 4 stars [3 + 4 = 7]

Tamika: The kindling of the heart and soul sparks a warrior who embodies bravery and justice! Synchro Summon! Begin the war, Lava Conquistador [ATK 2600/DEF 700 LV 7]. Since Flare Resonator was used as the Tuner monster, he gains 300 attack points [ATK 2900/DEF 700 LV 7].

Edward: What?!

Tamika: Battle! I attack your monster. Flaming Battle Sword.

It rushes forward and slices the monster in half. Edward grunts and grins [Edward LP = 1800].

Edward: You don't learn. I'll just diss another card and make his destruction negated [Overflowing Treasure]. [ATK 2100/DEF 0 LV 10].

Tamika: In that case, I'm done. Your monster is weaker now. Sooner or later, you'll run out of cards in your hand. And when that happens, your monster's attack points will be zero. Then you won't be able to fight back!

Edward: My, my. You really thought this through, didn't you? Sorry, but I'm not exactly planning on giving up. Draw. She's right though. The cards in my hand are running out. In that case….I set a monster in defense mode. I also set a card. [ATK 700/DEF 0 LV 10]

Tamika: But why?! You're decreasing the attack points of your monster by getting rid of cards!

Edward: I'll fight the way I choose to fight. If you have a problem with that, deal with it. I change my monster to defense mode [ATK 700/DEF 0 LV 10]. Turn end.

Tamika: Here we go, my turn! This guy's nuts. All I need to do is attack twice and his monster will be destroyed. Besides, if he really had a Trap set, he would have kept his monster in attack mode. Obviously he has nothing he can play. In that case, I'll take that ugly thing down this turn. Here we go, draw! I summon Burning Skull Boomerang [ATK 1500/DEF 500 LV 3]. I attack your monster with Conquistador.

It draws its sword and quickly cuts the monster. Edward hisses and grins.

Edward: You never learn. I toss another card [Fiber Jar].

Tamika: But that was the last card in your hand. You're defenseless [ATK 0/DEF 0 LV 10]. With no attack or defense points, that thing is of no threat to me. Time to put an end to this! I attack your Avarice with Burning Skull Boomerang. Go, Burning Throwback! Is this….really going to work?

Edward: Let me answer your question. No. Trap card, Attack Guidance Armor. This forces you to instead attack my set monster.

Tamika: He did have a Trap!

The monster twirls and slices through the set monster. It flips up as Tamika gasps.

Tamika: Morphing….Jar?!

Edward: That's right! When Morphing Jar is flipped, we send our hands to the graveyard. But of course, I have no cards. So you are the only one who tosses cards. And you know its other effect don't you? When Morphing Jar uses this effect, we each draw five cards. And now that my hand has been refreshed, my monster gains even more attack points, 700 for each card [ATK 3500/DEF 0 LV 10].

Tamika: No way….damn, this is the best I can do, but I use the effect of Boomerang. When it successfully manages to attack, it returns to my hand. I set two cards and end my turn.

Edward: Yes…that is all you can do. My turn. I use the Spell card Pot of Greed. This allows me to draw 2 cards from my deck. As a result, my hand now has 6 cards [ATK 4200/DEF 0 LV 10].

Tamika: Good. I might just be able to get away with this.

Edward: Now I use a card from my hand [ATK 3500/DEF 0 LV 10]. It is quite a cost, but the card is well worth it. Heavy Storm.

Tamika: You've got to be kidding me!

Edward: Now all your Spell and Trap cards are destroyed.

Tamika: No….my Traps….

Edward: A Trap is pointless. Nothing can stop my power! Battle! I attack your Conquistador with Avarice.

It sends out purple mist again. The monster chokes and turns to dust as Tamika watches with horror, getting blasted back against the window, making it crack [Tamika LP = 1100]. She coughs and spits out a chunk of a tooth as she slides to the floor.

Edward: Do you see now? My Card of Darkness is too powerful. Ever so slowly, it will lap up your soul. There's no point in fighting. Just give up and it will be painless.

Tamika: I….refuse!

Edward: …Excuse me? I was going to pardon you and you refuse?

Tamika: I made a promise. And I'll damn well keep it, no matter what!

Edward: A promise…amusing. Very well. The hard way then. Turn end.

Tamika: Draw! I set a monster and a card. Just need to hold on for one more turn now. Tell me something. What are you doing all this for?

Edward: Why? Do I need a reason?

Tamika: What do you mean?

Edward: I think it'd be obvious. Stealing money, stealing souls, stealing dignity, why not?! Those who say possessions are meaningless obviously have nothing to their name, so of course they would say something like that. But in the end, possessions are everything! They give you pleasure, power, respect! I want it all! Everything this world has to offer me. And when I'm done, I'll loot heaven and hell also! Until everything is mine!

Tamika: I see. Greed is the only thing that exists in your heart. Well, let me tell you something!

Everyone is still outside looking with worry.

Tamika: Possessions mean nothing when you're all alone. All the money in the world doesn't mean anything if there's no one to spend it on. Toys mean nothing if there is no one to play with. Even happiness means nothing if no one else can be happy! True riches…are friends!

Edward: …You know something girl? You're really starting to annoy the piss out of me. Fine, keep talking. It'll give me an opening to shut you up! I use the Spell card Grazing Arm [ATK 2800/DEF 0 LV 10]. Now when I destroy a monster when the monster I have is of a higher level, 500 points of damage are dealt to the opponent. Get her Avarice! Desire's Ray.

It spits out more purple smog and tears through the set monster. Tamika screams in pain once more [Tamika LP = 600].

Edward: Scream! Scream more! Anything you have to lend me is something special! Turn end.

Tamika: Heh…you made a mistake. Now I'll end it.

Edward: You sound confident. Perhaps you're delirious. Do you want to stop for a drink of water?

Tamika: Why would I….when I'm about to win?! Here we go, draw! Trap card, Descending Lost Star. This lets me revive one Synchro monster with a decreased level. Come on, Skull Flame Dragon [ATK 3000/DEF 1500-0 LV 7]. Now I release it to Advance Summon my Heat Eater [ATK 1000/DEF 0 LV 6]. When this monster is released by releasing a FIRE monster, it gains the attack points of that monster [ATK 4000/DEF 0 LV 6].

Edward: Impossible! 4000 attack points?!

Tamika: Go! Regurgitate Fire!

It spits out fire at the monster. It makes noises of pain as Edward is almost blown away. [Edward LP = 600].

Edward: You don't learn! I just need to toss another card [Spirit of the Pot of Greed] and his destruction is negated [ATK 2100/DEF 0 LV 10]. Don't you get it fool!? My monster is invincible!

Tamika: Exactly what I was hoping for. You're so obsessed with keeping that monster alive. And that is going to be your downfall right now! Spell card, Chance from Beyond! By taking one monster I summoned this turn and sending it to the grave, I can revive a monster removed from the field this turn. Come on back, Skull Flame Dragon [ATK 3000/DEF 1500 LV 8]. And what's more, this monster is also allowed to attack.

Edward: N-No! W-Wait a second….

Tamika: Goodbye. The fires of purity will melt your greed.

It shoots out a stream of fire and burns up the monster. It stops grinning and screams as it melts. Edward screams as the fire knocks him back [Edward LP = 0] and he is thrown back. A gate opens up and chains out, dragging him in.

Tamika: It looks like the gate is taking you. That's what you deserve, scum. Now, our deal…

Edward: Deal? I don't recall making a deal with you. I already gave the profits away. You'll never get them back!

Tamika: What did you just say?! Stop lying to me!

Edward: It's true! Ha ha ha! Your dumb friend will never see his money again! Even I don't know where it is now!

He laughs as he is pulled inside the gate. Tamika holds out her hand as she falls to her knees. Everyone else bursts in.

Axel: Are you okay?!

Tamika: No….

Alicia: What happened? Are you hurt?

Tamika: Axel….I couldn't get your wealth back. Sorry…

Axel: …Sorry? You…you moron!

Tamika: Huh?!

He grabs her by the collar.

Axel: That doesn't mean anything! What, you think if you got hurt, that doesn't mean anything!? I…I see now. I can live without money. Just don't you die in the process, okay? Or else!

Tamika: Axel….okay.

Yusuke: Axel….you've really grown up.

Axel: What do you mean?! Are you saying I've been a kid!?

Everyone then breaks into laughter as Yusuke looks down.

Yusuke: I have to wonder though….what did they need all that money for?

In a dark room, Rasputin prepares a syringe. He sticks it into Vergil's arm and he sighs.

Rasputin: Do not despair Father.

Vergil: I will though. This tuberculosis will catch up to me before my goals are seen.

Rasputin: I promise you Father….they won't.

Faust stands outside the room and walks away.

To be continued

Baron: Today we'll be going Greedy King- Avarice. This monster can only be summoned by removing three Spell or Trap cards. You draw any cards those removed cards would let you draw, and it gains 700 points for each one. But I have to wonder what makes this monster so greedy since it can't let you draw cards.

Dante: I'd think that'd be obvious. It takes all the cards for himself.

Baron: Hey, how did you get in here!?

Narrator: A friend is someone special, and losing one means losing a part of yourself. But lament too much and you will never move on. Next time on Yu-Gi-Oh! Riders of Fate: Episode 121: Exceed Summon Vylon Distigma.

Episode 119: The Greediest Monster!

In a dark room, a man is typing on multiple keyboards.

Man: Money….money!

He taps a button and a screen goes black. He grins and taps more buttons. A bank account drops to zero as he snickers.

Man: More…more money!

He taps more buttons as he stands and laughs. He releases a dark aura and grins like a lunatic as a monster appears behind him, grinning and laughing.

Opening

At school, the final bell rings. Yusuke stretches.

Yusuke: Classes have been getting so much harder! What with the hospital and being King, I can't keep up.

Tamika: That's what happens when you try to do too much. We are getting older. The work is bound to get even harder than this.

Yusuke: Man, what a drag! How come Seth doesn't need to do this stuff?

Alicia: Cut him some slack. After all, he just got back. He used to be tutored, so it's not like he needs to come back.

Yusuke: I guess so, but it still stinks! It's just so unfair. Hey Alicia, hey let me copy your homework…

Alicia: No!

As they argue, Tamika turns and sees Axel in the hallway. Her eyes widen and she walks over.

Tamika: Axel?

Axel: Huh?! T-Tamika!?

Tamika: Hey. What's going on? I haven't heard from you in a few days. What are you doing here? Don't you go to that fancy prep school in the city?

Axel steps back and runs off. Tamika tries to give chase, but Axel rips down the hall before she can stop him. She pulls her hand back and looks confused.

Yusuke: Huh? What's up?

Tamika: Could have sworn that was Axel just now.

Alicia: Axel? Why would he be here? He goes to Cynemia Prep. Believe me; he wouldn't be caught dead in a place like this.

Yusuke: I don't see the pox on public school. They have to wear those uniforms all day. Talk about money for the sake of money.

Tamika: I could have sworn though…

Alicia: They say if you see too much of someone, you start to see them everyone. You probably just imagined the whole thing.

Tamika: Yes, I get it! I made the whole thing up!

They walk out as they see some buildings being nailed shut.

Yusuke: A lot of property has been bought out lately. I really don't get it. What do people want by taking homes and businesses away from others?

Tamika: I've learned its just life. Rich people just want more money. They get a taste and they need more, no matter who they stomp on to get it.

Alicia: That seems kind of pessimistic, don't you think?

Tamika: Pessimistic is sometimes the same thing as honest.

Yusuke: Either way, it's sad. At least Seth found a place to stay.

Tamika: Hmph. Too bad he couldn't keep his mansion. Now we need to find a new hiding place to meet up.

Yusuke: We can go to my place. Axel's house is pretty big too. Come on, let's head over.

They walk into the wealthier part of town. People seem to be giving Tamika dirty looks as she gives them dirty looks back.

Alicia: Come on, give it a rest. Don't give anyone a reason to dislike you.

Tamika: Whatever.

Yusuke knocks on the door. A few minutes later, a man opens the door.

Man: What?

Alicia: Um…doesn't the Seshia family live here?

Man: I don't know what you're talking about. This is the home for the Heirdalgo family. No Seshia family lives here.

Yusuke: That's not right. We know this is his house.

Man: Well he doesn't live here anymore! Now get off my property before I call the police!

He slams the door in their faces. They all look at each other confused. At a house, Salia walks in sighing.

Salia: I'm home…

Seth: Salia, you never told me your mother was so sweet. Now I see why you make such good tea.

Salia: Glad to see you're enjoying yourself….

Salia's mother: My, I never knew the king was such a nice boy. Salia, make sure you hold on to this one.

Salia: Mother!

Seth: Heh heh. Sorry, it's just interesting seeing you two interact. I'm glad I came back here…even though you guys have to take care of me.

Salia: Don't think anything of it! We don't mind one little bit!

Salia's mother: Yes, it livens up the house having you here. Besides, in the housing market, you won't find anything else.

Seth: true….

In the rougher part of town, Tamika rides down the road.

Tamika: No one seems to be out today. I was hoping to have a Riding Duel, but it doesn't seem like anyone wants a challenge.

An explosion occurs from far away.

Tamika: There we go. Someone must already be dueling.

She races towards the area. Someone falls to their knees.

???: Let that be a lesson to you. No one is tougher than me, got it!?

Tamika: Hang on….Axel?!

Axel: Huh?

He turns and sees Tamika there. His eyes widen and he begins to shake.

Tamika: What are you doing in this part of town? I thought you hated coming down here.

Axel quickly races off.

Tamika: Hey, I asked you a question! Get your scrawny rich butt back here!

She races off after him. They race down the streets as people quickly move out of the way. Axel looks back and sees Tamika is still chasing after him. He begins to sweat as he speeds up, racing down a thin alley. Tamika quickly turns and follows him. Axel jumps over a fence as Tamika does the same. He speeds up even more and races past some train tracks and leaps over a broken train car. Tamika does the same.

Axel: You gotta be kidding me! Is anything going to stop this crazy chick?!

Tamika: Pull over! Pull over or I break your D- Wheel.

She begins to bang into him. He snarls and the two smash into each other when their tires go over a bump, sending them both sprawling. Axel gets up and tries to run as Tamika lunges and grabs him.

Axel: Let go!

Tamika: No!

Axel: LET GO!

Tamika: I won't!

Axel: Why are you so concerned for me?! What does what happens to me matter to you?!

Tamika: We're friends you moron! Wasn't that the whole point of Armen and Pandora?! Why…why do you try to do things alone?

Axel: Because…no one needs to be burdened with my problems. I can take care of myself…

Tamika: That's not the point! You think we like the idea you don't talk to us?! Axel…you are strong, but you aren't immortal. You can't do everything alone. That's why you need to depend on others.

Axel: But…you'll think lowlier of me…

Tamika: Moron!

Axel: Stop calling me a moron!

She starts punching him.

Tamika: I'll call you a moron as many times as I want because you ARE one! No matter what happens, you'll always be Axel. Nothing can ever change that fact. So go on already and tell me what's wrong. If you don't, I'll kick the air loving crap out of you!

Axel: It….was the bank. It took all my money.

Tamika: What?!

Axel: You heard. They came for no reason and took everything. That's why I need to live here now. You don't understand! That's why I couldn't tell you guys! Look at me now….I'm so pathetic. How could I do anything useful now? Not in my condition, not now…

Tamika: …Moron. If that's what the issue was, you should have just told us. Why were you so scared anyway?

Axel: It's just…you don't get it! This concerns me and me alone! I didn't need to get you guys involved in what my plans were. I'm going to get back my wealth, no matter what. It's my fight, no one else's.

Tamika: You really are a moron, you know that? If whoever did this knows took your home and money, they know who you are. If you go, it'll be suicide.

Axel: So I just give up then? Great plan…

Tamika: No, what you do is shut up…and leave things to me.

Axel looks up in shock as Tamika looks serious. In the city, the man from earlier is on the phone.

Man: It's wonderful! I made so much money today! You've given me such a great gift Vergil! I seriously can't thank you enough for this!

Vergil: Yes, I am glad you are amused Edward. But you must not forget our end of the bargain. You do remember, I trust?

Edward: Of course! I'm a man of my word. Half of the profits will be given to you people, don't worry. After all, it is your Card of Darkness that has given me all this.

He hears a shuffle. He turns his chair around and glances.

Vergil: That is good. Then we have no further business to discuss tonight.

Edward: Goodbye.

He hangs up the phone and snickers.

Edward: I can smell you little girl.

Tamika walks towards him. She glances towards a large stack of papers.

Tamika: That wouldn't happen to be those contracts you stole from everyone, now would they?

Edward: I should have guessed one of you would come sooner or later. Let me guess, you want a cut of the profits as well? Perhaps we could negotiate a deal.

Tamika: Sorry, no thanks. What you can do is rip up those papers and give the money you stole back to the people who need it.

Edward: Now why would I want to do something like that? Tell you what kid, you've got a lot of spunk. I'll treat you to a little contest. How does that idea sound?

Tamika: Either way it won't make a difference. I'll crush you and take back those contracts?

Both activate their Duel Disks.

Both: Duel! [Edward LP = 4000][Tamika LP = 4000]

Edward: Time to test this out. Shadow Game!

His eyes glow. A dark aura resonates from him and surrounds the two of them. Tamika looks around in shock and grabs her throat.

Tamika: What the….getting harder to breathe…

Edward: Now that the Shadow Game has begun, there is not escape unless you manage to win.

Tamika: Win huh? You should know who you're talking to. I'm Skull, the Burning Hot Riding Duelist! Anything you throw at me I can just as easily throw back at you! Draw. I set a monster in defense mode. I also set a card and end my turn.

Edward: Is that the best you can do? How disappointing. Draw! I use Pot of Greed. This lets me draw 2 cards. Now I use another Spell, Upstart Goblin.

Tamika: Another draw card?

Edward: I get to draw one card. And as a result, you gain 1000 life points [Tamika LP = 5000].

Tamika: What does drawing cards really do for you?

Edward: Simple. This! I return 4 cards from my hand to my deck [Hiro's Shadow Scout, Big Eye, Morphing Jar #2, and Cyber Jar] to summon Drawler [ATK ?/DEF ? LV 3]. This card gains 500 attack points for each card I returned to my deck in that way. There are four cards each for a total of 2000 attack points [ATK 2000/DEF 2000 LV 3]. Battle! I attack your set monster. Rolling Press!

It rolls towards the set monster and crushes it flat. Tamika's deck glows.

Tamika: Huh?

Edward: Any monster destroyed by Drawler is thrown back to your deck.

Tamika: I don't consider that a problem. Trap card, Shattering Skull. This deals 500 points of damage when a monster I control is destroyed and summons one of the same copy from my deck.

Skull fragments buffer him [Edward LP = 3500] as Burning Skull Head appears [ATK 1000/DEF 800 LV 3].

Edward: It won't make a difference. I set two cards and end my turn.

Tamika: My turn, draw! I summon Heat Speeder [ATK 800/DEF 600 LV 2]. Level 2 Heat Speeder tunes to level 3 Burning Skull Head.

Speeder becomes 2 rings that Head flies through, becoming 3 stars [2 + 3 = 5]

Tamika: May these monsters creates the flames that tame the inferno of the underworld. Become a wicked nova and melt! Synchro Summon! Burning Underworld Tank [ATK 2300/DEF 500 LV 5]. Battle! I attack Drawler.

It aims and shoots a cannonball through it, making it blow up [Edward LP = 3200].

Tamika: When Burning Underworld Tank destroys a monster, I can revive another. Come back, Burning Skull Head [ATK 1000/DEF 800 LV 3]. Direct attack!

It flies forward and spits fire, sending him back [Edward LP = 2200].

Tamika: Hmph. You're not so tough. I set a card and end my turn.

Edward: You're pretty good girl. Looks like I won't be able to go easy on you anymore. Draw! Trap card, Jar of Greed. This lets me draw a card. Trap card, Reckless Greed. This lets me draw 2 more cards. Now I use Card of Demise!

Tamika: No way!

Edward: This lets me draw 5 cards from my deck, though I lose my entire hand in five turns. I return 6 cards from my hand to my deck to summon Drawler [ATK ?/DEF ? LV 3]. Since 6 cards were returned to the deck, he gains 3000 attack points [ATK 3000/DEF 3000 LV 3].

Tamika: No way…

Edward: This is my hell of drawing. Battle! Drawler attacks your Burning Skull Head. Rolling Press.

It rolls over and crushes Skull. Tamika cries out as shrapnel flies and cuts her [Tamika LP = 2000]. She falls to her knees and grabs her arm, seeing blood.

Tamika: Blood? But…

Edward: This is my Shadow Game. There is no escape girl. Your only fate is death. Be ready to die.

Tamika: Hmph. Don't count me out yet! Draw. I summon Flare Resonator [ATK 300/DEF 1300 LV 3]. Level 3 Flare Resonator tunes to level 5 Burning Underworld Tank.

Resonator becomes 3 rings that Tank flies through, becoming 5 stars [3 + 5 = 8]

Tamika: May these monsters creates the sparks that ignite the burning flames of my soul. Become a savage fire and burn! Synchro Summon! Skull Flame Dragon! [ATK 3000/DEF 1500 LV 8]. Since Flare Resonator was used as the Tuner, Dragon gains 300 attack points [ATK 3300/DEF 1500 LV 8]. Attack Drawler. Dead Fire Blast!

It spits out a lot of fire that burns up the monster. Edward hisses from the pain [Edward LP = 1900].

Tamika: I'm winning this duel now. You gave up your entire hand. Reckless Greed means you're not allowed to draw next turn. Face it, you're done!

Edward: Oh no my dear girl…you just brought me victory. My turn. I remove Pot of Greed, Jar of Greed, and Reckless Greed. By removing 3 Spell or Trap cards, I can Special Summon my Greedy King- Avarice. Show yourself, my Card of Darkness!

A dark swirl appears as something rises. People look in shock as darkness swirls around the top of the building.

Alicia: What's going on?!

Axel: Tamika…

Edward: Get ready girl. I'm greedy for your soul!

Tamika turns pale and steps back as a grinning monster appears in the darkness.

To be continued

Baron: Today we'll be going over Drawler. This card gains 500 attack points for every card in your hand that you return to the deck. Make sure you have a full hand before playing this.

Narrator: Greed breeds more greed, which breeds even more greed. No matter what, never let it tempt you. Next time on Yu-Gi-Oh! Riders of Fate: Episode 120: Riches are Friends.

Hey guys. Schoolwork has really bee piling up and I really need to dedicate my energy towards school. Really, I just haven't had time for Riders of Fate and it's become more of a chore to write it. So for a while, I'm going on a little break. Whether it'll be temporary or I'll cancel it I'm not sure, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it. I felt you guys had a right to know for being so patient and considerate, so there.

Again, I thank you for your patience and I'll try to resolve things quickly.

Episode 118: The Enchanting Field: Ecole de Zone

In Yusuke's kitchen, Salia pours Seth a cup of tea.

Seth: Thanks. It's been a long trip.

Alicia: What's going on? I thought you were out on the fields.

Seth: This tea is delicious. Thank you Salia. I forgot how much I missed your special brew.

Salia: Oh…it's no secret. My grandmother just used to make it that way.

Seth: Heaven. This more than makes up for my time out south.

Axel: Dude, it's a cup of frigging tea! Can we focus on the issue at hand please?!

Seth: Right, sorry. Guess I should explain why I'm here.

Yusuke: Yeah. Let me guess. The Crossed Brotherhood?

Seth: Is that what they call themselves?

Arnold: Does that mean you encountered one of them?

Koga: Yeah, what happened?

Seth: I'm getting ahead of myself. Let me start over from the very, very beginning. You see, it goes like this…

Opening

3 days ago

In a field, a rooster lands on a fence and begins cawing. Seth is lying on a bed a he opens his eyes and wakes up, stretching.

Seth: The people get up so early here. It's insane. Well, better get out there.

He stands up and walks over to the bathroom, brushing his teeth. As he does, he sits down and looks at his bedside table. It shows a picture of Seth, Salia, Koga, and Arnold. He looks sad and spits.

Seth: I do miss them.

Woman: Seth, Shimmer's here!

Seth: Be right down.

He leaves his room and rushes down the stairs.

Shimmer: Be careful. Wouldn't want to break your leg again right?

Seth: Yeah, yeah.

Man: Are you guys going out? You know there is work to be done.

Seth: We're going out for a little breakfast. We'll be back soon.

They both leave and walk past a field.

Shimmer: Are you okay? You seem really out of it.

Seth: Guess I just feel a little homesick. I haven't seen the others in a while. I have to wonder how they're getting on.

Shimmer: What do you mean?

Seth: I can't say. It's more recently I got this feeling. Something….something really bad is going to happen.

He pulls out his Fate Crystal, which is glowing and bouncing around.

Shimmer: What's with that thing?

Seth: I don't know. But it's been going crazy as of late. I don't like this at all. I'm probably just being paranoid, but I feel like something's wrong.

Shimmer: Really? Well…

Kid: Yo! Where you guys going?!

Shimmer: Hey Nick. Just out to get some breakfast.

Kid: Really? You're lucky. I have to work now. Promise you'll pick up something for me!

Seth: Will do.

The two keep walking. Nick whistles as he hoes crops.

Nick: It's good to have Seth back. I really missed that guy. Wonder if he can introduce me to Salia…

???: Seth you say?

Nick looks down as darkness is spreading across the ground. Nick's eyes widen and he gasps.

Woman: So the duel king really is here in the boonies. What a tacky little plant. All these trees and plants.

Nick: Uh….uh…who are you?!

Woman: Me? I'm Rooster. And now…

She holds out her arm as a Duel Disk appears.

Rooster: I'll Harvest your soul.

Nick's eyes widen as he steps back. At a café, Seth and Shimmer are standing in line.

Shimmer: I think I'll get the super breakfast burger! How about you?

Seth: Huh? Oh, bacon and eggs.

Shimmer: Come on, relax. I'm sure there's nothing wrong.

A scream is heard and a wave of darkness fires from the fields. Seth and Shimmer turn in shock.

Shimmer: That's Nick's property!

Seth: Damn! Get me something to go!

Shimmer: Seth, wait!

Seth takes off.

Seth: I knew it! Things were way too peaceful. But if the enemy came all the way here, I must be their target!

He runs to the field. A door slams shut as Rooster slowly turns, grinning.

Rooster: Well, if it isn't the former King. You're just as cute in person as they say.

Seth: Don't screw around. Where's Nick?

Rooster: Nick…Nick…oh, you mean the squirt I just crushed? Oh, I wouldn't worry. After all, there's nothing you can do for him now.

Seth: What's that mean?!

Rooster: His soul is already one with the Inferno. No mortal means will ever being him back.

Seth: That can't be…I refuse to believe it! You won't hurt anyone else!

Rooster: I'm not here to do that. I just felt a little rusty. So I wanted to make sure my skills were sharp. No worries. After all, you're my target, no one else. Get ready.

Seth activates his Duel Disk as darkness swirls.

Rooster: You're not getting away!

Seth: As if I would want to!

Both: Duel! [Rooster LP = 4000][Seth LP = 4000]

Rooster: Heh heh heh. Shadow Game.

Darkness surrounds them, trapping them in a ball.

Seth: Shadow Game?

Rooster: Oh, don't worry. It'll all make sense soon. Or should I say…won't?

Seth: You're not making any damn sense. I'll force you to make senses!

Rooster: Oh I'm sure you will! Draw. No way! It took me turns to draw this last time and I drew it right away! Now you're in for it you little terp…

Seth: Twerp.

Rooster: Huh?

Seth: You say terp, which means turtle. You mean twerp, which stands for "punk."

Rooster: Well aren't you a smart little twit. Well, those brains won't do any good…against my Card of Darkness.

Seth: What?

Rooster: Field Spell, Ecole de Zone!

She puts it in her Field Spell slot. A door opens and releases darkness. Seth covers himself as the darkness surrounds him. He hears birds singing and opens his eyes. He is a distorted world. He looks around in confusion and begins walking.

Seth: Where am I? Wasn't I dueling just a minute ago? Yet this place…

He stops to see water on the side of a building as a fish jumps and leaps back in.

Rooster: Do you like it? This is my world.

She leaps down laughing.

Seth: Your world makes no sense. If you're trying to intimidate me, you'll need to do better than that.

Rooster: No don't worry, I intend to. I set two cards and end my turn.

Seth: No monsters? That's a mistake! Draw. Here we go. I summon Color Warrior- Brawling Burgundy [ATK 1800/DEF 0 LV 4]. And now….

His monster blows up. Seth's eyes widen in shock as a hideous thing appears on his field [ATK 1800/DEF 0 LV 1].

Seth: What…?!

Rooster: That's what you get for summoning so suddenly! Ecole de Zone is a special reality. Any monster summoned is transformed into a Mask Token. Don't worry, it has the same attack and defense points as the monster you summoned. But Ecole de Zone does not allow direct attacks.

Seth: Damn! You wanted me to summon a monster! Looks like I have no choice. I set a card. Turn…

Rooster: Continuous Trap, Changing Costume. At the end of every turn, Mask Tokens change sides. Since you are the only one with a Mask Token, I take it.

Seth: No way! She one-upped me…completely.

Rooster: That's not all little boy! I'm just getting started. Draw. Trap card, Nightmare Archfiends. This summons three Archfiend Tokens to your field [ATK 2000/DEF 2000 LV 6 each].

Seth: Nightmare Archfiends…but..!

Rooster: Ecole de Zone destroys them and turns them into Mask Tokens. And then the power of the Tokens deals 800 points of damage for each one.

All three blow up, turning into Tokens [ATK 2000/DEF 2000 LV 1 each]. Seth screams in pain and is shot back into water [Seth LP = 1600]. He sits up, coughing, dying the water red.

Seth: What…that hurt…

Rooster: The Shadow Game has begun. At the end of this duel, your soul is mine.

Seth: My…soul?

Rooster: Did I forget? So sorry. Anyone in a Shadow Game must bet their soul. As such, the damage you take is real.

Seth: What? You…didn't say that.

Rooster: Must have slipped my mind. I release your Mask Token and summon Chaos Command Magician [ATK 2400/DEF 1900 LV 6]. The effect of Ecole de Zone makes him a Mask Token [ATK 2400/DEF 1900 LV 1]. Battle. Attack one of his Mask Tokens!

It flies forward, punching the other one. Seth cries out [Seth LP = 1200].

Rooster: Hurts? Not done. Spell card, Creature Swap! Now we exchange monsters. I'll give you Chaos Command Magician in exchange for a Token. Changing Costume's effect! Now I get back my Mask Token and you get hurts back.

Seth: I see. Her deck is all about giving me the weak Mask Tokens and keeping the strong ones for herself. She's…strong. No question about that. But…I can't afford to give up! Here we go, draw! Yes. I use Polymerization. This lets me fuse monsters together. I combine the Mask Token with Colorless Warrior for Unliving Artist [ATK 2100/DEF 0 LV 7]. At this time, he is destroyed and turned into a Mask Token [ATK 2000/DEF 1000 LV 1]

Rooster: Eh? So what was the point of that?

Seth: Battle! Unliving Artist attacks your Mask Token!

It flies forward, punching it, making them both blow up.

Rooster: Hmph. Stupid.

Seth: With that, I end my turn. Now Changing Costume gives me the stronger Mask Token.

Rooster: I see. You're getting used to how Ecole de Zone works. Not bad. But it won't help you at all. Ecole de Zone is more powerful than you can imagine. I'll show you…draw!

Outside, Shimmer sees the dark sphere.

Shimmer: What the hell is this thing? Seth! Seth, can you hear me?! Damn. There has to be something I can do. Maybe…Frost and Flame Dragon?

He summons it. It appears and charges the sphere, getting destroyed.

Shimmer: No! Damn…looks like it's up to you Seth.

Rooster: Heh. Ha ha ha ha! This is almost unfair, it really is! Spell card, Owner's Seal! Now all monsters return to their original owners. Take back your Mask Token. I'll take the stronger one back.

Seth: No! Impossible…right when I claimed it…she took the stronger one…she's good. Very good

Rooster: Battle! I attack your Mask Token.

It plows through Seth's Mask Token, destroying it. He screams in pain once more [Seth LP = 800].

Rooster: Man, if I knew it was going to be this easy, I wouldn't have bothered coming. At this point, doing something like this may seem cruel….but I can live with that. Here we go, I summon Nefarious Healer [ATK 1200/DEF 1000 LV 4]. Now that a monster has been summoned, Ecole de Zone normally replaces her with a Mask Token. But Nefarious Healer has the power to negate her own destruction. And that's not all.

Healer grins. The stronger Mask Token walks over to Seth's field.

Seth: What…?

Rooster: Nefarious Healer lets me give one monster to the opponent or vice versa. If so, the player who gives up the monster gains 1000 life points [Rooster LP = 5000]. You understand what happens next, right?

Seth: Hmph. Now that you have given me the stronger Mask Token, Changing Costume will give it to me at the end of the turn.

Rooster: My, you are a bright boy! Too bad it won't change anything. Even now, Changing Costume activates! Healer now goes to you due to her alternate effect of going to the player I affect. Face it, you've lost! The Crossed Brotherhood will claim this land!

Seth: Crossed….Brotherhood?

Rooster: Hmph. As if I'd tell you anything else. All you need to know is that we will be the future rulers of this world. The precious sun will fade and cast the world into everlasting night. The souls of the mortal world will open the gates of the Underworld and release the ancient Yomishin.

Seth: Yomishin?

Rooster: Oops. I said it. Oh well. You won't be telling anyone. Cause you're about to lose. Turn end. Changing Costume changes the field.

Seth: Looks like it's all done to this draw. Come on deck. At least give me one more win as the King. Draw. I use the Spell card Angel Baton. This lets me draw 2 cards and send one to the graveyard. Color Warrior- Shocking Yellow uses its effect! Now Spells and Traps you try to use can't be used until the End Phase!

Rooster: Damn. He's figured it out. Ecole de Zone doesn't stop monster effects. What did he draw though?

Seth: This is the end, Rooster. I use the Spell card Fusion Return. This lets me use a Polymerization from the graveyard and fuse monsters. Now I remove Unliving Artist. Now when I Fusion Summon, I can use monsters in my graveyard for the Fusion. I combine the Shocking Yellow in my graveyard with the Colorless Warrior also in my graveyard.

Both fuse together.

Seth: Come on, Color Warrior- Exploding Orange [ATK 2500/DEF 1000 LV 6].

Rooster: No! And Ecole de Zone is negated, which means it isn't turned into a Mask Token!

Seth: Battle. I attack your Mask Token. Orang Explosion.

It creates a tiny orb and throws it. The orb blows up, destroying the Token. Rooster cries in pain [Rooster LP = 4900]

Seth: And now a new card. Spell card, Second Chance to Strike. Since I destroyed a monster, he can attack again. Go, Orange Explosion.

It hurls another explosion. Rooster screams as she flies back [Rooster LP = 2400].

Rooster: So….what?!

Seth: Now a direct attack from Nefarious Healer. Sinister Smile.

She grins, spitting dark mist. Rooster screams and flies back again [Rooster LP = 1200]

Rooster: Looks like you miscounted. I still have life. And even if you have two monsters, Ecole de Zone reactivates at the end of the turn, destroying your Warrior. Face it, this is the end.

Seth: …Yes, it is the end. I should put an end to it now, shouldn't I?

Rooster: Eh?

Seth: First I use the power of Nefarious Healer. I give my Color Warrior to you [Seth LP = 1800]. Turn end. At this time, the effect of Ecole de Zone destroys my monster, giving me the Token and you Nurse [ATK 2500/DEF 1000 LV 1].

Rooster: You see!? Ecole de Zone is permanent! Even your best efforts haven't done anything!

Seth: Since Color Warrior was destroyed, I can select one monster on the field and destroy it as well. Your Healer is back on your field. I'll destroy that and deal its attack points as damage.

Rooster: What?! You used Ecole de Zone to your advantage.

Seth: You made two fatal mistakes. One was hurting my friends and making me duel you. The second….was making me duel you.

Healer blows up, taking Rooster out with her. She screams [Rooster LP = 0] as Ecole de Zone begins to fade. A door opens and begins sucking in all the darkness and Rooster.

Rooster: This…isn't over you realize? Even as I speak, my plans in Cynemia City are commencing. You won't stop us! Even if you stop me, the Crossed Brotherhood will live on!

She laughs as all the darkness vanishes inside the door, which slams shut. Seth looks on in shock as Shimmer runs over. Seth stands up.

Shimmer: What's wrong?! What's happened?!

Seth: Shimmer….forgive me ahead of time, but I must go.

Shimmer: Go? Go where?

Seth: …To Cynemia City.

His flashback ends.

Seth: I rushed here as soon as I could. I'm glad I came here when I did.

Axel: Hmph. So they are targeting us after all. Bring em on!

Alicia: If they already have Dex, does that mean they'll be coming after the rest of us soon?

Tamika: It would seem likely. What bothers me is what Rooster said. Yomishin.

Yusuke: Yomishin…Cards of Darkness…Shadow Games….just what is happening in this town?

Dante is standing outside the house. He looks down sadly and walks off.

To be continued

Baron: Today we'll be going over Ecole de Zone. This Field Spell destroys any monster summoned and turns it into a Mask Token. Graveyard effects and destruction effects work well with it. But how a Mask Token is scary I just don't get…

A Mask Token tackles him. He screams as it covers its face and he runs around, falling down a massive flight of stairs as Ren and Rika walk up them.

Ren: Since when have the stairs been this long?

Narrator: Avarice is a terrible thing. Greed destroys the soul and corrupts the mind. Most importantly of all, it corrupts what you do love. Next time on Yu-Gi-Oh! Riders of Fate: Episode 119: The Greediest Monster

Episode 117: Two Cards of Darkness!

Everyone is racing towards the dark sphere.

Yusuke: I was right. A Shadow Game has begun.

Axel: Who is dueling though? We're all here right now.

Alicia: In that case, an innocent person must have gotten involved.

Tamika: Come on then, pick up the pace!

They race off.

Ren: Sir…?

Baron: Damn…looks like things are getting awkward.

Dante: Not just one of them. There are two Cards of Darkness. You really want to get the job done, don't you Vergil?

Arnold stands outside the sphere and looks scared.

Arnold: Salia….Koga…

Inside, both Dragons continue to roar as Vlad and Dracul keep laughing. Salia coughs more blood and stands up, though she struggles to do so

Koga: Salia!

Salia: Koga…get up. We still have to…finish the duel.

Koga: Um…right.

Vlad: Hey, they're actually getting up!

Dracul: Good. We wouldn't want this to be boring. Come on kids. Curb our boredom for a little while longer.

Opening

In the dark sphere, the duel continues. Salia pants [Salia LP = 1000] as she has Archlord Kristya without a soul [ATK 0/DEF 0 LV 8] equipped with Fiendish Chain, Herald of Perfection equipped with Fiendish Chain [ATK 1800/DEF 2800 LV 6], and a set card. Dracul snickers [Dracul LP = 3200] as on his field is Underworld Dragon Dragonecro [ATK 3000/DEF 0 LV 8], Archlord Kristya Dark Soul [ATK 2800/DEF 2300 LV 8], and two Fiendish Chains. Koga looks scared and sweats [Koga LP = 1000] as he has Armored Ninja- Blade Heart [ATK 2200/DEF 1000 RANK 4] and a set card. Vlad laughs as well [Vlad LP = 2600] as he has Galaxy- Eyes Photon Dragon on the field [ATK 3000/DEF 2500 LV 8].

Salia: Here we go, draw! Two Cards of Darkness…whatever these things are, they're deadly. I can believe it now…if we draw things out, they'll kill us for sure. But if that happens, we can't keep this city safe for Seth! Trap card, Jar of Greed. This lets me draw one card. Beckoning Light. I have to do this right. I release Archlord Kristya and summon a monster in defense mode.

Dracul: Hmph. I get it. The monster can't attack, so you got rid of it. Not bad, not bad. But it won't keep you safe.

Salia: In addition, I set a card and end my turn.

Dracul: Draw. Of course I said that, but I'm not in a good place. Dragonecro has no choice but to steal the souls of monsters he battles. As long as Herald of Perfection has 2800 defense points, I can't kill it. But in my deck there's Stop Defense. Once I draw that, I win. Here we go, draw! I set a card. Underworld Dragon Dragonecro attacks your Herald of Perfection!

It bites down on the monster. Its soul is sucked out.

Dracul: Now I get a new servant [ATK 1800/DEF 2800 LV 6] [ATK 0/DEF 0 LV 6].

Salia: As I thought. You can't destroy my monsters with Dragonecro.

Dracul: You knew? Ha ha ha! Wise girl! Too bad that won't save you! Archlord Kristya attacks your set monster.

It flies forward and punches the monster [The Agent of Judgment- Saturn]

Dracul: Looks like that's all I can do. Turn end.

Vlad: Well, back to you fatso. Can you win, I wonder?

Koga: Um…shut up! I'll duel the way I wanna duel!

Vlad: Fine, fine. But if it gets you killed…well don't blame me now.

Koga: Gr…draw! He's right though. Galaxy- Eyes Photon Dragon is the perfect anti- Exceed monster. If I want to win, I need to play like Seth. Well…here goes! I summon Armored Ninja- Air in defense mode [ATK 1400/DEF 1400 LV 4]. Armored Ninja- Blade Heart goes to defense mode [ATK 2200/DEF 1000 RANK 4] I place a card face down and end my turn.

Vlad: If that's all…I guess we'd better end things.

Dracul: Yes, I suppose so. Ha ha ha!

Outside, everyone drives up.

Arnold: Everyone! Thank goodness you're here!

Axel: Hey wait a….Arnold?! Why are you here?!

Arnold: Well…you see…

Tamika: Where's Salia? And Koga? The three of you seem to be so tightly knit.

Arnold: Um…well…that's my problem…

Alicia: Problem? What do you mean?

Yusuke: …Arnold…where is Koga and Salia?

Arnold gulps and turns back slightly towards the dark sphere. Yusuke's eyes widen.

Yusuke: No…leave them alone! I'm the one you want!

Dante: No good. Once the Dark Field has been cast, no one can interfere. It's cut off from our dimension.

Axel: You…Dante!

Alicia: What do you mean?

Dante: We won't be able to reach them unless they win…or lose.

Tamika: So you're saying we can't do anything?!

Dante: There is something, actually. Hope your friends can win.

Yusuke: Salia…Koga…

Vlad: Here we go, draw! I also set a card. Photon Ray. Next turn, you'll be finished. Get ready for this fata ss! I attack Armored Ninja- Blade Heart with my Galaxy- Eyes Photon Dragon! Photon Stream of Destruction!

Koga: Trap card, Ninjitsu Art of Decoy. My monster cannot be destroyed by battle.

Vlad: That won't stop me! Galaxy- Eyes Photon Dragon's effect! I remove both Photon Dragon and Armored Ninja from play. This cancels out your Ninjitsu Art.

Koga: I was hoping for that! Trap card, Fog Sneak Attack! When a monster on my field is removed, I can destroy a Ninja monster and deal its attack points as damage.

As both monsters vanish, Air creates a mist. Vlad looks around as Air appears behind him, slashing him across the back as he gasps [Vlad LP = 1200]

Vlad: Y…You….turn end. At this time, my monsters come back [ATK 3000/DEF 2500 LV 8] [ATK 2200/DEF 1000 RANK 4].

Dracul: You really got hammered there. Maybe you can't keep up…?

Vlad: I just caught by surprise! You shut up and pay attention to your own duel anyway!

Salia: Nice Koga! Come on; let's just go on for a little while longer. Draw. I use Pot of Greed. This lets me draw 2 cards. Trap card, Beckoning Light. I discard a card and take a LIGHT monster in my graveyard and place it in my hand. When Light Serpent is discarded, I can revive it [ATK 1200/DEF 800 LV 3]. I release Light Serpent and Herald of Perfection to bring back Archlord Kristya [ATK 2800/DEF 2300 LV 8]. Battle. Attack Herald of Perfection Dark Soul!

It flies towards it and punches it, destroying it. Dracul blocks with his arms [Dracul LP = 2200].

Dracul: Damn. No need for my Trap yet, but if this keeps up…come on, don't think that way! She just summoned another monster for prey!

Salia: I set a card and end my turn.

Dracul: You're not very bright kid. You just summoned a monster weaker than Dragonecro! Time to collect the soul of my next slave. Draw! Hm…just as a precaution, I use the Continuous Spell Branch! When a Fusion monster is destroyed, I can Special Summon one of the Fusion Material monsters from my graveyard. Not that I'll need to. Battle! Underworld Dragon Dragonecro attacks. Soul Crunch!

Salia: I knew it. Someone as arrogant as you would attack. Quick- Play Spell, Forbidden Chalice. Now one monster gains 400 attack points [ATK 3200/DEF 2300 LV 8].

Dracul: No! It's too late to cancel out my attack!

Archlord charges through Dragonecro's face. It roars as it collapses, turning into dust [Dracul LP = 2000].

Dracul: Damn…using the power of Branch, I revive Hellfire Spearman [ATK 2000/DEF 0 LV 4]. You got lucky. Next turn I'll get you. For sure.

Salia: Keep talking. I'll make sure to take you down! If I don't…I can never face Seth again.

Koga: She's so confident…me too! I'll be strong too! I can't let these guys get the better of me, no matter what! Draw. I use Ninja Sacred Prediction Arts. When there is a Ninja monster out, I draw 2 cards and then discard one. I release Armored Ninja- Blade Heart.

Vlad: Heh?!

Koga: Come on, Armored Ninja- Earth [ATK 1600/DEF 1200 LV 5]. Now I use the Spell card Silent Doom. This lets me revive one monster from my graveyard. Come on back, Ansatsu [ATK 1700/DEF 1200 LV 5].

Vlad: What's the point? Sure you got rid of the Exceed monster, but now you've got level 5 garbage. Wait…level 5?

Koga: I Overlay my level 5 Armored Ninja- Earth and level 5 Ansatsu.

Both monsters turn into balls that fly inside of a swirling galaxy, causing it to explode.

Koga: With these two monsters I construct the Overlay Network. Exceed Summon! Show yourself, Ninja King- Power Warrior [ATK 3000/DEF 900 RANK 5]

Vlad: Damn! It has the same attack points as Galaxy- Eyes Photon Dragon! But it is an Exceed monster! You're taking a big risk going at me with Exceed monsters, especially with Overlaid cards.

Koga: We'll see. Turn end! I'm counting on you, Power Warrior. Let me win this duel

In the dark room, everyone keeps watching.

Snake: How amusing! Their struggle would be so heartwarming if it weren't so sad!

Ox: I don't know. Vlad and Dracul seem to be failing.

Vergil: It appears they forgot our code. Defeat means death. Faust, perhaps you could reiterate our message?

Faust: As you wish.

He draws his blade again and scrapes a hole in space, walking through it.

Horse: If you thought they were going to fail, why did you even send them?

Vergil: There were the ones begging for a chance to prove themselves. If nothing else, they'll stop annoying me now.

Rat seems to look down. Back at the duel, Vlad snarls.

Vlad: Damn brat! Here we go, draw! Uh….yeah, this'll work! I summon Plasma Ball [ATK 900/DEF 900 LV 3]. Not that I'll need it. Galaxy- Eyes Photon Dragon attacks your monster. Photon Stream of Destruction!

Koga: Big deal! They have the same attack points!

Vlad: Obviously you forgot my monster's power! Spell card, Half- Shut! This halves the attack points of a monster, but now I use the effect of Dragon! I can remove him and the monster from play. Take this larda ss! Trap card, Photon Ray!

Koga: I use the effect of my Warrior! By removing one Overlaid card, I can negate the effect of a card and destroy it.

It draws its sword and grabs an Overlay Unit, then rushes forward and cleaves the Dragon in half.

Vlad: No! My Card of Darkness!

The dark sphere begins to fizzle as everyone becomes visible.

Alicia: Hey, look!

Dante: The darkness is fading.

Vlad: No worries, no worries! Plasma Ball attacks you directly. Plasma Charge,

It roars and tackles Koga. He is shocked and screams in pain [Koga LP = 100].

Vlad: If I do this, he is destroyed. Turn end.

Dracul: You moron! If you had Half- Shut in your hand, why didn't you use it?! His monster only would have had 1500 attack points.

Vlad: Yeah…well he would have negated it no matter what!

Dracul: If you used Half- Shut, you could have continued your Photon Ray combo and won the duel! Because of you, we're in deep trouble! If Father Vergil catches wind of this…

Faust: He has.

Faust stands there. Dracul and Vlad hastily bow.

Dracul: Lord Faust!

Vlad: Hey…how's it going?!

Faust: You seem to be in a bad situation.

Vlad: No! Everything's fine!

Koga: Who's that guy?

Salia: He seems to be their boss.

Dracul: Look, just give us another chance! We can win, we promise!

Faust: Father Vergil is already disappointed with you.

Dracul: Please!

Faust: …Fine. One more chance. But fail and you will never be one of us.

Salia: I don't know what's going on, but you'd better focus on us first! Here we go, draw! I set a card and end my turn.

Dracul: Here we go. Sorry about this Vlad….

Vlad: Huh?

Dracul: But this is my only chance! Trap card, Life Link! I can revive one monster. One other monster gains attack points equal to the attack points of the monster I revived. I revive Galaxy- Eyes Photon Dragon [ATK 3000/DEF 2500 LV 8]. But there is a price.

Vlad: Dracul…what are you…?

Dracul: Photon Stream of Destruction!

Dragon turns on Vlad. It blasts him using its attack and Vlad flies back [Vlad LP = 0]

Koga: What?!

Salia: He turned on his own ally?!

Dracul: To revive a monster, its attack points must be subtracted from its owner's life points.

Vlad: Dracul….why?!

Dracul: Sorry…but I can't let you hold me back anymore. Rest assured.

The gate reappears. Vlad turns slightly as chains lash out. Dracul looks down as Vlad screams and tries to run as he is bound and pulled inside the door. He grabs onto the edge.

Vlad: Big brother, please don't do this! Big brother! Big Brother! Big…

He is pulled inside as the doors slam shut. Koga and Salia look in shock.

Salia: How…how could you do that?!

Dracul: I didn't want to. But you have to do what it takes to survive. And this is the only one to do so. Life Link's other effect. One monster on the field gains the attack points of the monster I brought back. The soul of Kristya grows stronger [ATK 5800/DEF 2300 LV 8]. This is just what I needed. Finish her off once and for all! Attack! Combo Attack!

Koga: I'll help! I remove the second Overlay Unit and negate the effect of Life Link. This'll help Salia!

Dracul: You won't get in my way again! Life Link has one more power. I send it to the graveyard along with Dark Soul to revive a monster. Since I would have revived it, I keep Photon Dragon on the field [ATK 3000/DEF 2500 LV 8]. This is for Vlad! Destroy Archlord Kristya!

Koga: No! I'm out of cards!

Salia: I'm not. I had a feeling you would try an all-out attack. Seth always told me most duelists resort to that.

Dracul: So?! You can't stop me now!

Salia: That's why I had this set, ready and in wait. Trap card, Union Attack! Our two monsters work together!

Warrior and Kristya clap hands [ATK 5800/DEF 3200 LV 8]

Dracul: No…NO!

The two monsters fly into the attack, charging through it and through Dragon. It cracks and blows up. Dracul screams as the darkness dissipates. [Dracul LP = 0]

Tamika: There they are!

Dracul: No….I won't…let it end….here!

He runs towards them. Salia screams and steps back when a light fires, hitting the ground. Dracul is blinded and steps back as chains bind them, dragging him into the door.

Dracul: No! One more chance, just give me one more chance! I won't let you down, I promise! One more chance, one more…!

He is pulled inside the gate.

Pig: Well, that was a total failure.

Vergil: Not necessarily. I think it's…interesting.

He keeps his eyes on Salia.

Axel: You idiots! What were you thinking?!

Arnold: Are you two okay?

Koga: Yeah…we think so.

Salia: But…who helped us?

???: Jeez…

Salia's eyes widen. They all turn to see someone standing on a roof. Dante backs away and vanishes.

Seth: You guys just can't stay out of trouble, can you?

To be continued

Baron: Today we'll be going over Armored Ninja- Power Warrior. This is a Rank 5 Exceed monster with the power to negate the effect of a card. Though, I have to wonder why Koga has Ninjas…

Salia: Oh, that's easy. Koga is descended from ancient ninjas.

Baron: What?! You can't be serious! That fat slob? Yeah…

Koga leaps and jump kicks Baron away. He bows as Baron crawls into view.

Baron: Okay….I believe you….

Narrator: There exists a world where nothing makes sense. In a world where reality is nothing, keep true to your will and sanity, or else suffer the crushing grip of defeat. Next time on Yu-Gi-Oh! Riders of Fate: Episode 118: The Enchanting Field: Ecole de Zone.

Episode 116: Salia and Koga's First Duel

Across town, Salia is scrubbing dirt stains off a plate.

Salia: Jeez….work just sucks now. I miss Seth already.

Arnold: There's nothing to be done. Until he comes back we'll…

Man: Excuse me, can I order now!?

Arnold: Right sorry, that's a burger with two sides of fries right?

Man: Yeah! Hurry it up already!

Arnold: Fine, fine. Koga, get his dinner ready. Salia, a clean plate and soda please.

Salia: Right.

Koga starts flipping the burger, Salia starts filling a soda and Arnold counts money as all three sigh.

Koga, Salia, and Arnold: Things were better with Seth.

Opening

After work, all three sit down at a booth and sigh. Koga is eating a burger as Salia wipes something on her hands and Arnold flexes his wrists.

Salia: No matter how many pairs of rubber gloves I wear, my skin always peels after work.

Arnold: At least you have something to do. I just sit there down all day taking ungrateful fat slobs' orders for disgusting and greasy food. I never want to see another yen as long as I live…

Koga: Look on the bright side; we get all the free food we can eat.

Salia: That's not the point! Ever since Seth left, we've been left in the dark! Yusuke and the others never bothered to even come into contact with us! It's almost like we only were allowed along because of Seth!

Arnold: Well it's not like we ever did anything major. If anything, we just supported Seth.

Salia: So what!? We've still been there through thick and thin! We were there for Pandora! For Armen! There's no way we'll being left out of this one too!

Koga: But what are we supposed to do about it?

Salia: Simple! We're going to march right up to them and tell them we want….no, we need more respect! Come on!

Arnold and Koga: Right!

They all prepare to stand up.

Boss: Your lunch break is over.

Arnold: …After work.

Elsewhere, everyone is sitting around their booth. Axel is eating a piece of pie and looking around nervously as everyone looks down.

Axel: So…

Tamika: Shut up.

Axel: I didn't even say anything!

Tamika: It was probably going to be something obnoxious.

Axel: Well EXCUSE me for showing some sympathy over what happened with Dex! What, we're just going to wallow in self- pity?

Alicia: It's just…what could have happened? Where would he have disappeared to?

Yusuke: I…I just don't know. But the Brotherhood has to be behind it! They HAVE to be! There's no other possible explanation!

Tamika: We can't just say that. There's that Baron guy. And that Dante person as well. There are a lot of suspects.

Yusuke: No…it was the Brotherhood! I know it for a fact!

Axel: Yeah? Even if they were, what can we do? Other than their name, what do we really know about these guys? Nothing, zilp, zilch, nada. What can we really do?

Yusuke: Well…I don't know! But we can't just sit here doing nothing! We've got to fight back somehow right?!

Axel: I'm not disagreeing with you. But if we don't have a plan, there's no way we can win. These guys are serious. If we're not, we definitely won't win. That's all. Otherwise, we'll have more sacrifices.

Yusuke growls and shatters his glass. Alicia stands up in a hurry as Yusuke rubs his bleeding hand.

Yusuke: …Fine.

In a dark room, 11 of the 12 seats are taken.

Dog: Looks like Rooster isn't back yet.

Pig: What's wrong Dog? Miss her?

Dog: No. I just care about what happens to my comrades.

Pig: Hmph. If she got herself erased, that is her own fault. Good riddance.

Ox: Yo, new Rat, how about speaking up? You've been awfully silent. How about contributing something?

Rat: ….Huh?

Ox: Ugh, forget it! Like talking to a wall!

Vergil: Now, leave our new member alone. He needs some time to get acquainted with our new world. Soon he'll be ready though. On to the topic at hand though, the ones who wield the Fate Crystals are going to be a nuisance.

Rasputin: I agree. The sooner we get rid of them, the better off we'll be.

Horse: But how, if you don't mind me asking, do you expect us to do that? After all, Guardando could not succeed. Should we really risk the safety of another one of our High Order?

Vergil: Hm….excellent point Horse. …Perhaps we could call Vlad and Dracul. They've been asking for a chance to show themselves.

Rasputin: Are you sure they can be trusted though?

Vergil: How can we know unless we give them a chance? I say let's go for it and see how things are done.

Elsewhere, Salia and Koga rush quickly down the street as Arnold slowly follows.

Arnold: Are you sure about this?

Salia: Of course! We need to let them know how we feel! We're not keeping out of this battle, no matter what they say! They should even have asked us if we wanted to…

Arnold pulls her back as Tamika and Axel are talking.

Tamika: I've nee thinking. Salia, Koga, and Arnold. Don't you think we should…I dunno, at least consult them?

Axel: Why bother?

Tamika: I don't know. We owe Seth for all he's done. And he seems to trust them…

Axel: Absolutely not. Dex has already vanished; we don't need those losers getting involved.

Salia: Who are you calling…?!

Arnold covers her mouth as he struggles in anger.

Axel: Besides, Seth isn't here right now. If those guys get in trouble, he won't be there to get them out.

Tamika: So? Even if they can't help, shouldn't they at least know what's going on?

Axel: You kidding? That'll just make things worse. It's better just to leave them in the dark. They wouldn't be of any real help anyway. Seriously, have they ever made a difference?

Koga and Arnold look down. Tamika clenches her fist and snarls and slaps Axel across the face. He falls back and rubs his face.

Tamika: You can be such an a ss sometimes you know that?!

She storms off. Axel looks confused and races off.

Axel: What's with her?

Koga, Salia, and Arnold all collapse into fetal positions.

Arnold: So….useless, are we?

Koga: We're dumb. Why would they need our help? We only know them through Seth…

Arnold: Maybe we should just go back to the burger joint. Maybe they'll pay us overtime at least…

Salia: Guys…we can't give up. If they think we'll useless…then we'll prove them wrong! Tonight we find out what's going on!

Koga: But they said…

Salia: Who cares what they said?! If they don't think highly of us, fine. But we think highly of ourselves. And besides, we need to make this town safe for when Seth comes back home. And I don't know about you, but I'm willing to fight to make that happen!

Arnold: …Good show!

Koga: Let's go for it!

Tamika is racing down the road and looks at her hand.

Tamika: He's such a moron….and a jerk too. So….why am I…?

She shakes her head and keeps moving. Elsewhere, two men are sitting at a table.

???: Too damn bright. Come on sun, set already! Vlad wants to get hunting!

Vlad: I want to get hunting? Please Dracul; you're the one acting crazy. Don't worry, the sun will set soon. And soon it will rise no more.

Vlad: Yeah. Once we Harvest the souls of everyone here.

They snicker. That night, Yusuke is looking at a photo album with Alicia.

Alicia: Poor Dex…I hope he's okay.

Yusuke: Yeah…

Alicia: Hey…don't you think we should call Seth back? Sure, he said he wanted a break, but this is serious.

Yusuke: No. Seth deserves the chance to be a regular person. The fact is I'm King, even if the City hasn't held matches. This is our city, not his. He shouldn't have the burden of saving it. That's up to us.

Alicia: But…

Yusuke: Don't worry. I'll save Dex. And I'll protect all of you, no matter what. But still…

Baron: The way you are now, you will never be able to defeat them

Yusuke's mother: Are you two okay? Would you like something to eat?

Yusuke: No! We're fine!

Yusuke's mother: Well…okay….

Alicia: It must be nice to have your mother back. I see. You want to protect her from the darkness especially.

Yusuke: ….Yeah.

In town, Salia looks from behind a building and signals. She runs off with Arnold and Koga trailing behind her.

Koga: Where are we going anyway? We've been running around in circles all night. I'm tired. And hungry.

Salia: We're scoping out the town. You never know when someone's going to take their chance to strike.

Arnold: You two are moving too slow. Tell you what, you can go your way, I'll go mine.

He runs off as Salia and Koga pout.

Salia: Jerk. Fine, we'll make our own path.

They walk off. Elsewhere, two black sensors glow. Vlad and Dracul grin.

Vlad: Time to get to work.

Salia and Koga keep walking when fog sets in.

Koga: Where'd this fog come from? Maybe we should turn back, it's getting dark.

Salia: What? Come on, don't tell me you're scared of a little fog!

Vlad: You should be…

Out of the fog, Vlad and Dracul jump out. Koga and Salia freak out when they land. Dracul and Vlad clap their hands together.

Both: Shadow Game!

A dark ring is drawn and black fog covers the arena. Salia and Koga look around in shock. All the Fate Crystals glow as everyone looks down.

Yusuke: No…

Alicia: Someone else now?!

Axel: Damn…

Arnold: No…Salia! Koga!

Koga: What is this?!

Salia: You…you're the bad guys.

Dracul: "Bad guys?" You don't even know our names? Hey, are these guys really Fate Crystal holders?

Vlad: Who knows? The signal went off. But this can't be right.

Salia: I'll have you know we are! We won't let them escape!

Koga: Y-Yeah. We uh…left them at home!

Dracul: Huh? Look, there's probably a misunderstanding here so…

Vlad: I don't mind. Even if they aren't telling the truth, they'll be nice warm-ups.

Dracul: Eh…I suppose. Alright, bring it!

All 4 activate their Duel Disks.

All 4: Duel! [Koga LP = 4000][Salia LP = 4000][Vlad LP = 4000][Dracul LP = 4000]

Salia: I'll start things off! Draw. I've been taking dueling lessons from Seth. Time to see if they paid off! I summon Gellenduo in defense mode [ATK 1700/DEF 0 LV 4]. I set two cards and end my turn. Shadow Game…what did those guys mean?

Dracul: My turn! Here's how things are gunna work. We'll following Separate Tag Rules. Basically, you're my opponent, and Vlad's fighting that pudgy friend.

Vlad: You have separate fields and life, but you can choose to help each other out.

Dracul: Not like it'll do any good. I summon Hellfire Spearman Ghost Lancer [ATK 2000/DEF 0 LV 4]. Now I place five cards face down and end my turn.

Koga: Here we go! D-Draw. I can't believe Salia got me caught up in this…but I guess I'll have to go through with it. I summon Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke [ATK 1800/DEF 1000 LV 4]. I set two cards and end my turn.

Vlad: Here we go, draw.

Dracul: Trap card, Interdimensional Matter Transporter. Now my monster is removed from play.

Salia: Eh?

Vlad: Since my opponent or opponents in this case, have two more monsters than I do, I can summon Power Invader right to the field [ATK 2200/DEF 0 LV 5]. I set three cards and end my turn. At this time, my friend's Hellfire Spearman comes back [ATK 2000/DEF 0 LV 4].

Salia: Don't really see the point, but whatever. Draw! Yes! Ritual Spell, Dawn of the Herald. This lets me send the proper amount of Ritual Material monsters to the graveyard whose total levels equal 6. From my hand, I send Herald of Orange Light and Herald of Green Light. Trap card, Double Load. From my deck, I can send Ritual material monsters to the graveyard as well [Freya, Spirit of Victory and Kuribon].

A ritual appears and all four are absorbed.

Salia: Come forth, Herald of Perfection [ATK 1600/DEF 2800 LV 6]. As there are four Fairy type monsters in my graveyard, I can Special Summon Archlord Kristya [ATK 2800/DEF 2300 LV 8]. Using his effect, I take a Fairy monster and place it in my hand. I then change Gellenduo to attack mode [ATK 1700/DEF 0 LV 4]. Battle! Archlord Kristya attacks your Hellfire Spearman!

It punches the monster as it blows up. Dracul laughs slightly [Dracul LP = 3200].

Salia: Go, direct attack!

Dracul: Trap card, Negate Attack!

The attack is blocked.

Salia: But...why now? Turn end.

Dracul: Draw! I can't Special Summon monsters. But we'll fix that. Trap card, Fiendish Chain! This negates the effect of Kristya and prevents it from attacking.

Salia: Herald of Perfection's effect! I discard a card and negate your Trap.

Dracul: Fool! You emptied your hand! Trap, Fiendish Chain!

Salia: Another one?!

Dracul: Using this, I negate the effect of Herald of Perfection. Then, since its effect is negated, it no longer affects the Chain working on Kristya!

Salia: No way…

Dracul: You emptied your hand. When running a Herald deck, that's a big mistake. Come on, Hellfire Sleeping Beauty, Ghost Sleeper [ATK 1300/DEF 0 LV 3]. Set card, Ghost Fusion. This lets me combine Ghost Sleeper with the Hellfire Spearman in my graveyard.

He laughs as they fuse. A door appears and creaks open.

Dracul: Open, gates of the Underworld. Bypass Hades and Thanatos and wreak havoc on the living. Fusion Summon! Underworld Dragon Dragonecro [ATK 3000/DEF 0 LV 8].

Salia: What…is this?

Dracul: Card of Darkness. Battle! Underworld Dragon Dragonecro attacks! Soul Crunch!

It bites into Kristya. Salia screams in pain [Salia LP = 3800].

Salia: Huh?

Dracul: You're not off the hook! Any monster that Dragonecro battles has its soul ripped out [ATK 2800/DEF 2300 LV 8]. Your monster is now a soulless husk that can't attack or be destroyed [ATK 0/DEF 0 LV 8].

Salia: Oh no!

Dracul: Battle! Archlord Kristya Dark Soul attacks.

It rams into Archlord Kristya. Salia screams in pain again from the force of the attack and vomits blood [Salia LP = 1000]. She falls face forward.

Koga: Salia!!

Dracul: Looks like the Card of Darkness is too much for her. Turn end.

Koga: You…you'll pay! Here we go, I draw! Man, this isn't good. Salia…I summon Goe Goe the Gallant Ninja [ATK 1500/DEF 1000 LV 4]. From my hand, I add on Fuhma Shuriken. Sasuke gains 700 attack points [ATK 2500/DEF 1000 LV 4].

Vlad: No you don't lardo! Trap card, Spellbinding Circle! The monster equipped with this can't attack or change its Battle Position! I choose your Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke.

Koga: That's not a problem! I can just do this! I Overlay my level 4 Ninja Grandmaster Sasuke and level 4 Goe Goe the Gallant Ninja.

Sasuke and Ninja fly into a portal as a galaxy spirals, causing an explosion.

Koga: Exceed Summon! Show yourself, Armored Ninja- Blade Heart [ATK 2200/DEF 1000 RANK 4]. Since Fuhma Shuriken was destroyed, you take 700 points of damage.

It swings back and slices him [Vlad LP = 3300].

Koga: Reverse card, Armed Regeneration. This puts Fuhma Shuriken back in my hand. I equip it back to my monster [ATK 2900/DEF 1000 RANK 4]. Battle! I attack Power Invader.

Vlad: Trap card, Waboku! This negates your attack and ends the Battle Phase.

The attack is blocked.

Koga: Um, okay, no big deal. I set a card and end my turn.

Vlad: These guys are such amateurs. They hold the Fate Crystals? Hm. As if! Draw. I summon Zombyra the Dark [ATK 2100/DEF 500 LV 4]. And now….a new kind of summoning!

Both monsters vanish and spiral around. Koga steps back in shock as the spiral becomes a galaxy and another door appears. It shatters and light pours out.

Vlad: Show yourself….Galaxy- Eyes Photon Dragon [ATK 3000/DEF 2500 LV 8]. This monster can only be summoned by removing two monsters with 2000 or more attack points.

Koga: No way….

Vlad: This is my Card of Darkness! Battle! I attacked Armored Ninja- Blade Heart. Photon Stream of Destruction.

Koga: Trap card, Mirror Force. This negates your attack and destroys your…

Vlad: Galaxy- Eyes Photon Dragon's effect! When a card is activated as he is battling, I remove both monsters from play. Counter- Trap, Photon Ray! When a Galaxy- Eyes Photon Dragon is removed from play, its attack points are dealt as damage.

A ray of photons shoots down and hits Koga. He screams in agony [Koga LP = 1000].

Koga: Fuhma Shuriken's….effect…

It swings back around hits Vlad [Vlad LP = 2600].

Vlad: Eh. No problem. Now both monsters come back [ATK 2200/DEF 1000 RANK 4] [ATK 3000/DEF 2500 LV 8]. But this time, your monster lacks Overlaid cards. Photon Dragon's secondary effect! After his effect, he gains 500 attack points for every Overlaid card my opponent had on an Exceed monster [ATK 4000/DEF 2500 LV 8].

Koga: No way….an attack of 4000?

Dracul: You might as well just give up and surrender your souls.

Vlad: It'll save you all the pain!

They begin laughing. Koga falls to his knees as Salia twitches on the ground. Everyone is running towards the duel as both Dragons roar.

To be continued

Baron: Today we'll be going over Underworld Dragon Dragonecro. This is a Fusion monster that steals the souls of monsters it battles. In addition, the soulless shell can be attacked and won't be destroyed.

Dracul: That's not all it does. It also really helps when you want to get ketchup out of an almost empty bottle.

Dragonecro bites the bottle and ketchup comes out as Baron blinks.

Narrator: As the battle rages on, the darkness becomes ever stronger. Can they escape the influence of not one, but two Cards of Darkness? Next time on Yu-Gi-Oh! Riders of Fate: Episode 117: Two Cards of Darkness

Episode 115: Invitation to a New World!

A week ago

On a boat, Dex's dad sighs and looks out over the water.

Dex's dad: Spain huh? This is going to be huge. If I can them to listen, there'll be stores all over. Heh. Dex will be so happy. Hope this trip doesn't take long.

Captain: It's getting late. You'd better return to your quarters.

Dex's dad: I know. I'm just going to enjoy the night breeze for a few more minutes.

Captain: Hey, by all means.

He heads back in. Dex's dad sighs again.

Dex's dad: Maybe I'd better buy a souvenir for Dex…

Suddenly, the boat starts rocking. Dex's dad freaks and grabs the railing.

Dex's dad: What the?! Don't tell me that was an iceberg!

He holds on as the ship keeps tossing and turning. People in the boat are screaming and knocking into things. Dex's dad almost falls off the side as it starts to turn on its side. A whirlpool swirls and the ship moves around.

Dex's dad: What's going on!?

He looks down into the whirlpool and gasps.

Dex's dad: You've got to be kidding me…

He screams as a cracking sound is heard.

Now

Dex is at the counter humming when two men walk in.

Dex: Hello! How can I help you?

Man: Are you Dex Tokimura?

Dex: Um, yes?

Man 2: You're the son of this establishment's owner?

Dex: Yes, but my dad isn't here right now. Can I do anything to help?

Man: We're….sorry son. But your father has disappeared.

Dex's eyes widen in shock

Opening

At school, Yusuke stretches as the bell rings and stands up.

Yusuke: Man, what a boring day. Nothing exciting is going on.

He turns and looks confused.

Yusuke: That's odd. Did Dex ever make it to school today?

Alicia: Not that I saw. Come to think of it, he wasn't in any of his other classes either.

Yusuke: Really? That's so weird. That kid never skips class, even when he's sick. Did something happen?

Tamika: You didn't hear this from me, but I think I know why. I heard my dad talking about it on the phone. You see, from what I heard, a ship that was heading towards Spain disappeared en route. No one knows where any of the passengers are.

Yusuke: Wait…when you say the ship disappeared…

Tamika: Ship, crew, passengers, everything. Almost like it was never there at all.

Yusuke: You're kidding me….Dex…

In a dark room, Dex is screaming and kicking things down. He grabs a vase and shatters it. He leans against the wall with his chest heaving and begins to cry.

Dex: Dad….why did you leave me? Dad…

He curls up and keeps crying. In a dark room, 10 hooded figures take their seats at a table.

Tiger: Blech. Meetings. Why do we even bother having these stupid things?

Horse: Calm yourself. There's no need to get worked up.

Tiger: Come on! You're thinking the same thing! All this does is waste time! We could be using this time going out there and getting some work done!

As he speaks, a Duel Disk with a blade at the end is held to his throat.

Faust: I'd watch my tongue if I were you. Otherwise I might have to cut it out.

Vergil: That's enough, both of you.

They both look towards Vergil and snarl, taking their seats.

Dog: Hey, that reminds me. Where's Rooster? She's never late to one of these things.

Vergil: She's out on leave for the time being. I had a job only she could do.

Rabbit: Yes, a job. If you don't mind me asking Father Vergil, would this job be similar to what Guardando took on?

Vergil: …Perhaps.

Rasputin: Regardless, we move on to more pressing matters. As a result of our recent move, the Inferno is slowly growing stronger. But the bridge is not complete yet. The fact is, our cause has not spurred many members. We are terribly shorthanded, especially with Guardando's defeat.

Tiger: Hmph. Isn't that what I just said.

Vergil: I said ENOUGH. Or perhaps you wish to share his fate.

Vergil glances. Tiger tenses and he falls against the table, gasping for air. Vergil blinks and Tiger sits up, gasping and clawing at his throat.

Vergil: You all must calm down. Things are progressing in just the right way. There's no need for us to do anything yet.

Pig: I agree. After all, all those souls made quite the catch. Of course, Guardando's seat will be difficult to fill; there is no question about that.

Vergil: Yes, I suppose so. But there might even be a quick answer to that. I can sense it. A powerful Dark Soul is being born,

Snake: Is it now? Well, that's certainly a surprise. Are we going to harvest it?

Vergil: Right now it is weak. But with the proper procedures, it can grow into a powerful Dark Soul. Yes, the sooner we get it on our side the better.

Faust: If I may..

Vergil: Go. The rest of you are dismissed as well.

Faust stands up and walks off.

Rasputin: Are you sure he can be trusted with such an important assignment?

Vergil: Really now, have more faith in your comrades. I believe in Faust.

Elsewhere, Alicia and Tamika knock on a door.

Alicia: Hey Dex? It's us. Can we come in?

Tamika: We've been here for ten minutes. He doesn't want to see us.

Alicia: Come on Dex. Look, I baked you a cake. Please let us in.

Tamika: Forget this. Let's just go.

Alicia: But we can't just go! What if he needs friends? What if…

Tamika: I know what loss is like. The best thing we can do for him is to leave him alone for a while. Give him time to heal.

The two walk off. Dex is inside and watches them go, turning away.

Dex: Sorry….

In his room, Yusuke is lying on his bed. Someone knocks as his mother comes in.

Yusuke's mother: Are you okay? You've been up here for a while.

Yusuke: Oh, hey mom. No, I'm fine.

Yusuke's mom: Need any help with homework? …Oh, sorry! You got it done earlier! I keep trying to get used to being a mother again. It's weird.

Yusuke: It's not that. It's just…I'm worried about Dex. I feel like I should at least say something to him.

Yusuke's mother: Well…you don't have to take my advice of course. If I were you, I'd leave him alone for a bit. When dealing with grief, it might seem a little pushy to go to him first. Wait for him to come to you. Trust me. If he really needs you, he'll come to you.

Yusuke: Yeah…you're probably correct.

At night, a ripping sound is heard. Faust's Duel Disk spike pokes through empty air and he steps out of a dark hole.

Faust: So this is Cynemia City.

He starts walking, darkness trailing behind him. All the Fate Crystals begin glowing again, rattling so hard they almost falling off their necks.

Yusuke: What?

Axel: Aw great, what now?!

Dex sits up. He looks out his window and his eyes widen when he sees Faust outside. He snarls and runs out.

Dex: You…who are you?!

Faust: You're the one. Yes…I see it. It's weak, but with the proper circumstances, it can grow into a powerful Dark Soul. Time to harvest…

His Duel Disk activates. Dex gulps and steps back.

Faust: What is it? Isn't this what you want? Revenge on the one who took your father away?

Dex: Wait…that was you?!

Faust: Perhaps.

Dex: I'll destroy you!

He activates his Duel Disk as well.

Faust: That's the spirit…you little idiot.

Both: Duel! [Dex LP = 4000][Faust LP = 4000].

Dex: Yes! What a great hand! First I'll summon Machina Sniper. Then I'll use Ties of the Brethren to summon out Machina Defender and Machina Soldier. Then I can summon Commander Covington and bring out Machina Force. It's perfect!

Faust: I'll start. Draw. I use the Continuous Spell card Dimensional Fissure. Now any monster that would be sent to the graveyard is removed from play. Next up, I use Card Destruction. We must both discard our hands [Necro Wall, two Necro Soldiers, and Necro Mannequin]

Dex: What?! Oh no! [Machina Sniper, Commander Covington, Machina Motherboard, Machina Guardog, Machina Peacekeeper].

Faust: Now our hands are refreshed. Just as this world shall be. I set a monster and end my turn.

Dex: Here we go, draw! Well, I lost that chance, but there's another! I discard two monsters whose levels equal 8 [Machine Soldier and Machina Defender] to Special Summon Machina Fortress [ATK 2500/DEF 1600 LV 7]. Battle! I attack your set monster. Machine Cannon!

The monster is blown apart.

Faust: Big mistake. You attacked Dimensional Warrior. This stops your attack and removes the attack monster from play.

A wormhole appears and sucks it inside.

Dex: Oh no! Um…I set a card and end my turn.

Faust: My turn, draw. He doesn't seem like much. He is a rash boy who only attacks. Does Vergil really think that much of him? Hmph. I'm not convinced! I summon Necro Zombie [ATK 1500/DEF 0 LV 4]. Let's battle. Necro Zombie attacks your monster. Necro Sludge!

Dex: Trap card, Sakuretsu Armor! When a monster attacks, I can destroy that monster.

The attack rebounds and blows up the monster.

Faust: At the end of the turn Necro Zombie was destroyed and removed from play, I can remove one card from the top of my deck from my play to revive him [Return From the Different Dimension]. Resurrect [ATK 1500/DEF 0 LV 4]. I set a card and end my turn.

Dex: An immortal monster! Dimensional Fissure removes it from play, so you remove more cards to keep bringing it back.

Faust: Hmph. Smart boy, that's right. But what are you doing to do to stop me?

Dex: I'll show you! Draw! I summon Machina Gearframe [ATK 1800/DEF 0 LV 4]. When summoned, I can take a Machina monster from my deck and put it in my hand. Machina Gearframe attacks your monster. Go, Gear Fist!

It punches the monster, destroying it [Faust LP = 3700].

Faust: I remove a card from my deck [Inferno Tempest] and revive it [ATK 1500/DEF 0 LV 4].

Dex: Turn end!

Faust: Here we go then. Draw. I release Necro Zombie to Advance Summon my Necro Ogre [ATK 2500/DEF1000 LV 6]. By removing one monster from play, he can be summoned with one Release. Since Necro Zombie has been removed from play, I remove another card [Chaos End] and bring him back [ATK 1500/DEF 0 LV 4].

Dex: What's this guy's game? All he's doing is removing cards. Now boy, get ready to fight. Necro Ogre attacks Machina Gearframe. Dead Club!

It smashes the monster. Dex cries out as a dark wind blows [Dex LP = 3300]

Dex: What…?

Faust: Direct attack. Necro Sludge.

It spits sludge. Dex is hit and flies back, rolling across the ground [Dex LP = 1800]

Dex: Ow….that hurt…

Faust: Do not worry. That is simply the law of a Shadow Game.

Dex: Shadow Game? I was right…you are working for them. The Crossed Brotherhood!

Faust: You know about the Brotherhood? Hmph. Guardando never knew when to shut his mouth. Now my mission is even more important. I set a card, turn end.

Dex: There's no question…he is working for the bad guys. But I……won't give up!

A dark aura begins to radiate. Faust looks up.

Faust: His aura is getting stronger. Looks like Vergil might have been right after all. But…I should make absolutely certain I didn't come all this way for nothing.

In the city, everyone meets up.

Yusuke: Guys, are you feeling that?!

Alicia: Yeah. Something must have happened with Dex. I can feel it!

Tamika: I checked his house. He's not there.

Axel: Damn. That brat always needs a reason to get us worried.

Yusuke: Come on, we'll split up!

They each run off as Yusuke looks upset.

Yusuke: Please Dex…don't get hurt yourself.

Dex: Here we go! This'll do. I summon Machina Buster [ATK 2500/DEF 100 LV 4]. I'll end this with one attack. Go, Limiter Removal! This doubles the power of a Machine monster out [ATK 5000/DEF 100 LV 4]. Attack his Necro Zombie! Rocket Rain!

Faust: Trap card, Dimensional Prison. When an opposing monster attacks, it is removed from play.

A wormhole appears and sucks the monster in.

Dex: Darn…he keeps blocking my attacks! I set a card and end my turn.

Faust: In that case, back to me. Hmph. I summon Necro Slayer [ATK 1300/DEF 200 LV 3]. Battle. I attack you directly with Necro Slayer.

It slashes him across the chest. He screams in pain and drops to his knees [Dex LP = 500].

Faust: I like to make pain last. Now, finish him Necro Ogre.

Dex: Trap card, Flashbang. Since you attacked me directly, the Battle Phase ends.

Ogre's attack is blocked.

Faust: Very well. It won't matter with this. I set a card and end my turn.

Dex: This hurts…this hurts so bad. But I won't give up. III refuse to let you freaks hurt anyone else! Draw! I use Pot of Greed. This lets me draw 2 cards. Come on, Machina Brain [ATK 0/DEF 0 LV 1]. When this card is summoned, I can Special Summon a Machine monster from my deck with a lower level by 1. Come on, Machina Fortress [ATK 2500/DEF 2000 LV 6]. Level 1 Machina Brain tunes level 6 Machina Fortress.

Brain becomes 1 ring that Fortress flies through, becoming 6 stars [1 + 6 = 7]

Dex: Synchro Summon! Show yourself, Machina Spider [ATK 2600/DEF 2000 LV 7]. Using his effect, I can revive one monster.

Faust: Hmph. You have non monster to bring back.

Dex: So I'll use this. I use Dimension Open! This lets me summon one monster removed from play. I bring back Machina Fortress [ATK 2500/DEF 2000 LV 7]. Now battle! I attack your Necro Slayer with Machina Fortress.

It fires a powerful cannon that destroys it. Faust barely reacts [Faust LP = 2500].

Dex: And now Machina Spider attacks your Necro Zombie!

It spits electrified webbing that ensnares the monster and destroys it [Faust LP = 1500].

Dex: Yes, I'm doing great! You see that Faust!? I'm not going to let you guys have your way! All the pain you've caused…I won't let it last.

Faust: …You shouldn't judge anyone by first impressions.

A powerful dark aura radiates from him. Dex's eyes widen and he falls to his knees, gasping for air. All the Fate Crystals glow even more.

Faust: You see boy? This is true power. The power of darkness knows no bounds.

Dex: The power…of darkness?

Faust: It far exceeds your puny realm of light. I can see your own Dark Soul. You and I aren't so different.

Dex: Shut up! We're nothing alike!

Faust: You desire to be strong. To protect your friends, and your family, and anyone else associated with you. But at your current level of power, that will never be.

Dex: That's not true! I…

Faust: Who battled Pandora? Who stopped Armen? Mars? Milo? Even Guardando? Fact it. Every time your friends needed you, you couldn't step up to the plate. You're useless. You'll never be of any use in your current state. Dex: Shut up!

A powerful dark aura emerges from him, causing the road to crack as darkness leaks out.

Faust: Do you see? Darkness is what takes root in your heart, not light. If we can nurture the darkness….you won't recognize yourself. I can welcome you to a new world. A world where the old you will die, and the new you will be so strong, you won't even recognize him.

Dex: I…but my friends….

Faust: Have your friends ever needed you? No. You are useless to them. Us on the other hand….the Brotherhood will welcome you like family. Take my hand.

Dex: I…I….

Faust: I see. You still have your prior obligations. In that case, I'll end it. Draw. Necro Slayer, during the turn after it has been removed from play, lets me remove five cards in my deck from my play. Now by removing a card in my deck from play, I can revive Necro Zombie [ATK 1500/DEF 0 LV 4]. Necro Ogre's effect. I remove him and my face down card from play to draw 1 card. Perfect. This is what I was waiting for. I summon Necroface [ATK 1200/DEF 1800 LV 4]. When this monster is summoned, all removed from play cards go back to our decks. Then for each one, Necroface gains 100 attack points.

Dex: No way! That's why….

Faust: There a total of 28 cards removed from play. Necroface therefore gains 2800 attack points [ATK 4000/DEF 1800 LV 4]. Spell card, Across Dimensions. I remove from play my Necro Zombie. This further raises the power of Necroface by its attack points [ATK 5500/DEF 1800 LV 4].

Dex: No way….impossible. A level 4 monster with over 5000 attack points?!

Faust: This is the power of darkness Dex. The force that will claim the new world. Will you part of the revolution be for the victor?

Dex: ….Teach….me

Faust: Welcome, Dex. To a new world. Necroface attacks your Machina Spider. Necro Illusion!

It screams and charges, radiating with dark power. Dex screams as a large explosion of darkness occurs. Everyone looks towards the area. Baron's two guards look shocked as he frowns. Dante looks sad as he bites into a donut. Everyone runs to the area and sees nothing here.

Tamika: Nothing….

Alicia: That's impossible! That huge explosion had to come from somewhere!

Yusuke turns and sees a card lying there. He walks over and picks it up, gasping.

Axel: What?

Yusuke: This card…it's….Machina Spider….

Everyone gasps as Yusuke looks shocked. In a dark room…

Vergil: You did well Faust.

Faust: Thank you Father Vergil.

Vergil: Now…let the dark baptism begin.

In a dark orb, someone floats there, their eyes slowly turning black.

To be continued

Baron: Today we'll be going over Necroface. This card gains 100 attack points for every banished monster returned to the deck when summoned. Although, I fail to see how a floating face is threatening.

Necroface shows up and tackles Baron as he screams.

Narrator: They may not be strong, but they mean well. Their skills may be dull, but their resolve is sharp. Is resolve enough to get the job done? Next time on Yu-Gi-Oh! Riders of Fate: Episode 116: Salia and Koga's First Duel