Rin: 4000 | Hand: 5
Ashley: 4000 | Hand: 5
Turn 1 - Rin
"Allow me to start this duel!" Rin's confident voice echoed across the arena, but as she looked at her opening hand, her brow twitched ever so slightly.
A single monster card and four spells and traps. Not exactly the best start.
Tch... Not the hand I wanted. But... I'll make it work.
As if in response, her PSYqualia stirred, guiding her thoughts with calm clarity. Her duel instincts clicked in, shifting her frustration into focus.
"I summon Knight of Pulsation, Starius!"
A flash of radiant light burst beside Rin as a silver-armored knight stepped forward, his armor shining with an inner pulse that rhythmically surged with energy.
Knight of Pulsation, Starius
Level 4 / LIGHT / Warrior / Effect / Brave
ATK: 1700 / DEF: 1000
Ashley raised an eyebrow, arms folded beneath the ceremonial cape that adorned his armor. "So that is your knight. Quite different from the chivalrous paladins our school commands. Regardless, I shall see if you are truly capable of leading them into battle!"
Rin grinned back. "You'll find out soon enough."
"I set three cards face-down!" With practiced precision, Rin slotted the cards onto her Duel Disk, lining her field with traps and spells to prepare for Ashley's assault. "And before I end my turn, I activate Starius' Brave!"
Starius raised his glowing blade as a soft hum resonated from his chestplate. His armor glimmered brighter as energy flowed into him.
"Brave?" Ashley took a step forward, suddenly on alert. "Don't tell me you possess the same keyword as Akaba Reiji!"
Gasps rippled through the arena crowd.
"Reiji isn't the only one who's has a keyword," Rin shot back. "Brave activates if I have fewer than three cards in my hand. And with only one left, it's active now! Starius gains 400 ATK-and the boost is permanent as long as I maintain less than three cards!"
Knight of Pulsation, Starius
ATK: 1700 → 2100
"I end my turn."
In the observation stands, Ayu clutched her seat, her eyes wide. "Rin-nee-chan started strong."
"But with three cards face-down, it means she's playing carefully," Yuya added, watching the field with measured concern. "Ashley might try to power through, but those face-downs could change everything."
At the command center above the arena, Yuto nodded slightly. "She's playing defensively. It's a good call when you don't have an ideal starting hand."
"She definitely didn't," Ryuki added flatly.
"How do you know?" Shun looked over at him.
"She has a bad habit," Ryuki explained. "When she gets a subpar hand, her brow twitches just slightly. That's how I trained her to work around it."
Reiji, standing nearby, adjusted his glasses. "Then she has much to learn if she wishes to duel in war."
Rin: 4000 LP | Hand: 1
Ashley: 4000 LP | Hand: 5
Turn 2 - Ashley
"My turn! Draw!" Ashley raised his card with flourish, the crowd erupting in cheers as he added it to his hand. Energy surged around the field as spotlights followed his every movement.
"Surprised by the crowd?" Ashley turned toward Rin, his armored figure standing proud. "They cheer because I carry the hopes of my school. The pride of the Knight of Duelists stands with me-and today, I'll prove our strength by defeating you, Kazehaya Rin!"
Rin didn't flinch. Her fingers rested lightly over her cards. Her smile was calm.
"Then come at me. My knights and I are ready."
Ashley's Duel Disk glowed. "From my hand, I activate the spell-Sacred Sword of the Seven Stars! By banishing one Level 7 monster from my hand, I can draw two cards! I banish Swift Gaia the Dark Knight and draw two!"
A surge of mystic energy swirled above Ashley's head as the silhouette of Swift Gaia faded into a rift, replaced by the gleam of two new cards in his hand.
"Next!" Ashley raised his hand dramatically. "Since you control a monster and I don't, I can Special Summon this from my hand! Come forth-Gaia Lord the Dark Knight!"
A thunderous roar shook the arena as a dragon, dark and menacing, descended from the sky. Mounted on its back was a shadow-cloaked warrior, wielding dual spears of obsidian steel.
Gaia Lord the Dark Knight
Level 7 / EARTH / Warrior / Effect
ATK: 2300 / DEF: 2100
"And I Normal Summon-Galloping Gaia the Dark Knight!" A powerful steed galloped into the arena, its rider bearing a blood-red lance.
"If I control no monsters, I can Normal Summon this card without a Tribute-but its ATK becomes 1900."
Galloping Gaia the Dark Knight
Level 7 / EARTH / Warrior / Effect
ATK: 2300 → 1900 / DEF: 2100
"Battle! Gaia Lord-engage Knight of Pulsation, Starius!"
The dragon-mounted knight soared into the air, its spears twirling as it dove. With brutal speed, it pierced through Starius' defenses, sending shards of armor flying as Rin's monster was destroyed.
Rin: 4000 → 3800
"And now-Galloping Gaia attacks directly! Spiral Rush Shaver!"
Galloping Gaia's steed charged forward, hooves thundering across the Action Field. The knight's lance leveled directly toward Rin.
But Rin was ready.
"Trap activate! Rally of the Brave!"
A magic circle erupted beneath her as her Duel Disk flared with light.
"This card activates when you declare a direct attack! I negate your attack, and I can Special Summon monsters from my Deck whose total Levels equal or lower to the attacking monster's! Galloping Gaia is Level 7-so I summon two monsters! Knight of Battle Preparation, Porrex and my Tuner monster, Knight of Discipline, Alectos!"
Two radiant beams descended from the sky. From them emerged two armored figures. Porrex, in flowing desert robes and gold trim, spun his bident with precision. Alectos, clad in compact Arabian knight armor, drew a shimmering curved blade and stood firm beside his comrade.
Knight of Discipline, Alectos
Level 2 / LIGHT / Warrior / Tuner / Effect / Brave
ATK: 700 / DEF: 1000
Knight of Battle Preparation, Porrex
Level 4 / LIGHT / Warrior / Effect / Brave
ATK: 1600 / DEF: 1000
"When Porrex is summoned, I can add a Level 4 Brave monster from my Deck to my hand. I choose-Blinking Knight, Millius!"
Ashley blinked, surprised. "To stop my attack and call in reinforcements with precision like that... I must admit, that was impressive."
Rin smirked. "My Royal Paladins stand together. We protect each other. That is the strength of my deck."
Ashley's eyes narrowed behind his visor. "Your resolve is admirable... but I'm still not convinced your power is worthy of commanding knights."
"I'll prove it."
"I set two cards face-down. I end my turn."
Rin: 3800 | Hand: 2
Ashley: 4000 | Hand: 2
From the audience, Ayu leapt up in her seat. "That was amazing!"
"Rin really knows how to turn the tables," Futoshi added, eyes wide.
Yuya clenched a fist, relieved. "That's her style. Slow start, big comeback."
At the command center, Reiji watched the match unfold with folded arms. "Rin possesses the potential. But she has yet to show if she can maintain it under pressure."
"She'll do fine," Ryuki replied calmly. "Her rhythm's just beginning."
Shun remained quiet but stared at the screen, noting every move. The duel had only just begun-but Rin had already shown that the fire in her heart was just as strong as any knight she called to her side.
Turn 3 - Rin
"My turn! Draw!" Rin declared, her eyes narrowed with focus. She took a calming breath as her fingers brushed the drawn card. The path forward was clear-this was her moment to shift the tide.
"I summon the Tuner Monster, Blinking Knight, Millius!"
A shimmer of radiant light followed her command as a figure emerged onto the field-a nimble knight clad in silver-blue armor, bearing a small kite shield and a curved blade at his side. His footsteps echoed with a certain cadence, his armor pulsing softly with luminous energy.
Blinking Knight, Millius
Level 3 / LIGHT / Warrior / Tuner / Effect / Brave
ATK: 1300 / DEF: 500
Ashley raised an eyebrow, his stance tightening as he assessed the new piece on the field. "A Tuner, huh? Looks like I don't have the luxury of underestimating you anymore."
"You better not," Rin shot back with a determined smile, "because I'm going all out!"
She pointed toward Alectos, the first knight she had summoned during Ashley's turn. "I activate Alectos' effect! Once per turn, I can increase or decrease the level of one monster on my field by 1 or 2. I choose Porrex, and I increase his level by 1!"
A soft ripple of light coursed through Porrex's armor, his bident spinning once as his strength subtly increased.
Knight of Battle Preparation, Porrex
Level 4 → 5
"I tune my Level 2 Alectos with my now Level 5 Porrex!"
As Alectos raised his blade skyward, he transformed into two luminous Synchro rings. Porrex dashed forward, leaping into their center as Rin raised her arm to declare her next move.
"I call forth the trusted light that never wavers! Noble resolve and pure heart, answer the call of battle!
Synchro Summon! Shine, Level 7! - Blue Sky Knight, Altmile!"
A surge of cerulean light swept across the arena as a new knight emerged, mounted upon a glowing steed clad in silver and azure plate. His cloak fluttered behind him like a standard in the wind. His presence brought a wave of cheer from the crowd.
Blue Sky Knight, Altmile
Level 7 / LIGHT / Warrior / Synchro / Effect / Brave
ATK: 2500 / DEF: 2000
"There it is! Rin-nee-chan's ace monster!" Ayu exclaimed, practically jumping from her seat.
At the Command Center, Shun observed with a measured expression. "So that's her Synchro Monster."
"How are the energy levels?" Reiji inquired coolly.
"Stable, sir. No anomalies detected from the summoning," one of the technicians replied.
"Good. Keep monitoring in case there's a surge," Reiji said.
Back on the field, Rin raised her hand again. "I'm not done yet! I tune my Level 3 Millius with my Level 7 Blue Sky Knight, Altmile!"
A sharp pulse resonated through the arena as Millius vanished into three shining Synchro rings. Altmile jumped forward, charging into the rings as a pillar of light burst into the heavens.
"The decree of honor rings through the skies! Arise, knight who commands the light of unity! Synchro Summon! Descend, Level 10! - Knight of Heavenly Decree, Altmile!"
A gust of divine wind swept over the audience as the evolved Altmile emerged. His new armor was more ornate, his shield emblazoned with radiant sigils, and the sword he wielded now shimmered like a blade forged in celestial fire.
Knight of Heavenly Decree, Altmile
Level 10 / LIGHT / Warrior / Synchro / Effect / Brave
ATK: 3000 / DEF: 2300
Cheers erupted across the stadium at the dazzling double Synchro.
"So Altmile has another form aside from his Aerial Divine Knight," Yuya muttered, remembering his previous duel with Rin.
"I wonder how this one will fare..." Sora mused, his lollipop slowly lowering from his lips.
"The moment Altmile hits the field, I can Special Summon two monsters from my Graveyard! And they gain 500 ATK until the end of the turn! Return to my side-Porrex! Starius!"
Twin beams of light burst forth, and the two knights reemerged in full form beside their commander.
Knight of Battle Preparation, Porrex
Level 4 / LIGHT / Warrior / Effect / Brave
ATK: 1600 → 2100 / DEF: 1000
Knight of Pulsation, Starius
Level 4 / LIGHT / Warrior / Effect / Brave
ATK: 1700 → 2200 / DEF: 1000
"Starius' Brave activates! Since I have less than three cards in hand, he gains 400 ATK!"
Knight of Pulsation, Starius
ATK: 2200 → 2600
"And Porrex's Brave! If Altmile is on the field, he gains 500 more!"
Knight of Battle Preparation, Porrex
ATK: 2100 → 2600
"Knight of Heavenly Decree, Altmile's effect activates as well! If Blue Sky Knight, Altmile is in my Graveyard, this card gains 500 ATK!"
Knight of Heavenly Decree, Altmile
ATK: 3000 → 3500
The roar from the crowd swelled to deafening levels as Rin's side of the field glowed with surging strength. Her forces stood like an army awaiting a commander's signal-unshakable and proud.
In the Command Center, Yuto turned to Ryuki. "The power boosting is a bit too much, don't you think?"
"That's the specialty of Royal Paladins, Yuto. The more allies they have on the field, the stronger they get," Ryuki answered with a knowing grin.
"I activate Porrex's effect again! I add a Level 4 or lower Brave monster from my Deck to my hand-I choose Hope Keeper!"
Ashley's eyes narrowed. "Then I'll activate Gaia Lord the Dark Knight's effect! If you Special Summon a monster with higher ATK than him, he gains 700 ATK!"
Gaia Lord the Dark Knight
ATK: 2300 → 3000
"And that's not all," Ashley declared. "I activate my Continuous Trap-Illustrious Warrior! I target Gaia Lord. Now, Gaia Lord is forced into attack position and can't change his battle stance. Plus, he becomes the only monster you can target with effects or attacks!"
"Fine by me!" Rin answered. "Altmile, attack Gaia Lord the Dark Knight!"
Altmile raised his glowing blade, calling down a storm of light as he charged.
Ashley didn't wait-he sprinted toward the edge of the Action Field.
"Looks like contestant Ashley is searching for an Action Card! But contestant Rin isn't budging!" Nico Smiley narrated excitedly.
"Didn't you teach Ruri and Rin how to search for Action Cards?" Gongenzaka asked Yuya.
"I did. But Rin said she'll only go for Action Cards if she really needs to. She doesn't want to depend on them."
Ashley grasped a branch just in time. "Action Magic, Divine Barrier! Gaia Lord can't be destroyed in battle this turn, and I draw one card!"
The attack hit-energy coursed through Gaia's form, but the dragon knight held strong. Even so, the impact rattled Ashley.
Ashley: 4000 → 3500
"I end my Battle Phase," Rin said. "I won't attack recklessly with Porrex and Starius-not until I know what else you have prepared."
She held up her final card. "Before I end, I activate the Spell Card-Brave Ascension! I send one card from my Deck to the Graveyard and return one Tuner monster from my Graveyard to my hand. I send Scouting Owl and return Alectos to my hand!"
As her turn concluded, Rin's knights returned to their standard stats-except Starius, who retained his Brave boost.
Knight of Heavenly Decree, Altmile
ATK: 3500 → 3000
Knight of Battle Preparation, Porrex
ATK: 2600 → 1700
Knight of Pulsation, Starius
ATK: 2600 → 2100
"My turn ends!"
Rin stood tall, her field brimming with warriors of light and honor. The crowd gave thunderous applause at the incredible display of power, synergy, and tactics she had showcased. Ashley, while keeping his cool, could not deny the pressure building against him.
Kazehaya Rin was not just a participant. She was a knight commander. And this battlefield-was her proving ground.
The entire arena buzzed with tension as the duel entered its fourth turn. The energy was tangible-equal parts excitement, anticipation, and nerves.
Rin: 3800 | Hand: 3
Ashley: 3500 | Hand: 3
Turn 4 - Ashley
"To think that Ashley managed to get that Action Card..." Ruri muttered, eyes narrowed as she analyzed the board state.
"What do you mean, Ruri-nee-chan?" Ayu asked innocently.
"If Ashley hadn't drawn Divine Barrier, he would've lost his Gaia Lord and taken heavy damage," Yuya explained, crossing his arms.
"And remember what Millius's effect does," Yuzu chimed in. "If Millius had remained in the graveyard, Ashley's monsters could've been weakened even more after that second Synchro Summon."
They all shared a look of dawning realization.
"Talk about lucky," Sora whistled, half in admiration, half in disbelief. "He really pulled through."
Back on the field, Ashley's confident voice rang out as he drew for his turn. "My turn! Draw!"
His eyes flickered to Rin, and then softened.
"I understand now. Your bond with your knights is as strong as mine. You command them with honor, and in return, they lend you their strength. Now I am convinced-you are worthy of that deck."
Then, without warning, Ashley reached up and removed his helmet. A unified gasp swept across the stadium.
Beneath the armor was a man in his late teens, his reddish-brown hair tousled and sharp dark blue eyes piercing and clear. Despite the battlefield, he looked every bit a calm and noble knight.
"Well, you're quite the looker," Rin said with an amused grin, eyes briefly widening. "Does your school require you to wear that helmet all the time?"
"It is tradition. But should we meet an opponent we deem worthy of true respect, we remove it," Ashley replied. "You are the first I have ever done this for."
Cheers erupted from the crowd-not just for Ashley's revelation, but for the respect and sportsmanship now radiating between the two duelists.
Rin bowed slightly. "Then I vow on my deck to return your honor in kind. I will duel you with everything I have."
Altmile, standing resolutely behind her, raised his sword in salute.
Ashley nodded solemnly. "Then I vow as well, to battle with all that I am!"
Back in the Command Center, Ryuki leaned forward.
"This is going to be good," he murmured.
"Hm," Reiji agreed. "A Knight of Duelists who casts aside his limiters is always worth observing. Let's see how much further he can go."
Ashley's field remained clear, but not for long.
"First, I activate the Spell Card-A Warrior's Tactical Retreat!" Ashley declared. "I return all Warrior monsters I control to the Deck, and for each returned, I draw 1 card!"
His Gaia monsters were enveloped in a golden vortex, returning to his deck, and Ashley swiftly drew two new cards.
"Then I activate another spell-Trade-In! By discarding a Level 8 monster, I draw 2 cards!"
He revealed Sacred Soldier - Chaos Soldier, sending it to the Graveyard, then drew again.
With fresh momentum, Ashley pressed forward. "Since you have more monsters than I do, I can summon this without tribute! Awakened Gaia the Dark Knight, arise!"
A fierce knight with dual spears materialized, cloaked in swirling darkness.
Awakened Gaia the Dark Knight
Level 7 / DARK / Warrior / Effect
ATK: 2300 / DEF: 2100
And now... I activate my Ritual Spell-Super Soldier Ritual!"
A colossal ritual circle etched itself into the battlefield, two torches flaring to life.
"I offer my Level 7 Awakened Gaia and Level 1 Super Soldier Soul to summon one of the most revered knights in my order!"
The two monsters vanished into blue-white flames.
"Indomitable soldier who mastered the power of chaos, heed my prayer and ascend to a higher state! Ritual Summon! Appear! Level 8-Super Soldier - Chaos Soldier!"
Descending from the light was a powerful warrior clad in dark blue armor, his sword emitting a chaotic aura.
Super Soldier - Chaos Soldier
Level 8 / EARTH / Warrior / Ritual / Effect
ATK: 3000 / DEF: 2500
Even Nico Smiley had to gasp. "A stunning Ritual Summon! Will this be the turning point?!"
Ashley was not finished.
"Awakened Gaia's effect activates! If it was used as a Tribute, I can Special Summon a 'Chaos Soldier' from my hand or Graveyard! I choose the Sacred Soldier - Chaos Soldier I discarded earlier!"
A flash of gold and light as a second Chaos Soldier materialized.
Sacred Soldier - Chaos Soldier
Level 8 / LIGHT / Warrior / Effect
ATK: 3000 / DEF: 2500
"And now, Sacred Soldier's effect! I return Swift Gaia the Dark Knight from my banished zone to the Graveyard, and in exchange, I banish one card on your field! I target-Altmile!"
A wave of light surged from Sacred Soldier's sword-
"Not so fast!" Rin snapped. "Trap open-Linken's Sphere!"
A radiant blue sphere enveloped Altmile, stopping the banishing effect cold.
"With this trap, I negate any effect targeting one of my monsters. And instead of sending this card to the Graveyard, I can set it again. But I can't use it again this turn."
The light from Sacred Soldier faded harmlessly.
Ashley's composure remained solid. "No matter. I activate Chaos Soldier Resupply! Since I control two 'Chaos Soldier' monsters with different names, I draw 3 cards!"
He drew swiftly-and his smile returned.
"Fate continues to bless me. I activate Foolish Burial, sending Lightray Grepher to the Graveyard. Now that I have an equal number of LIGHT and DARK monsters in my Graveyard..."
He raised a card.
"By banishing all my LIGHT monsters-I Special Summon the final soldier!"
Lightning crackled as gold and twilight mixed.
"Come forth, Chaos Soldier - Envoy of Twilight!"
A third warrior appeared, this one blazing with golden radiance.
Chaos Soldier - Envoy of Twilight
Level 8 / LIGHT / Warrior / Effect
ATK: 3000 / DEF: 2500
The crowd exploded into cheers.
"Three Chaos Soldiers! All with 3000 Attack Points each!" Nico roared. "Can Rin possibly survive this?!"
In the stands, tension spiked.
"Rin-onee-chan..." Ayu whispered, her hands clutched together.
"Don't panic. He still has to go through Altmile first," Yuya said, trying to keep calm.
"Or he'll just pick off her support monsters," Gongenzaka added grimly.
And indeed, Ashley took that exact route.
"Battle! Sacred Soldier - attack Knight of Battle Preparation, Porrex!"
"I was waiting for that!" Rin countered. "I activate the effect of Hope Keeper from my hand! When a 'Brave' monster is attacked, I Special Summon her in Defense Position!"
A warm light descended. A beautiful angel with golden hair and brilliant wings emerged, casting a shimmering wall of magic to defend Porrex.
Hope Keeper
Level 2 / LIGHT / Fairy / Effect / Brave
ATK: 100 / DEF: 100
"My monster can't be destroyed in battle when summoned in Defense Position," Rin explained. "And if I control two or more 'Brave' monsters, you can only target her!"
Ashley's eyes widened. "That's troublesome..."
"And since I control three other 'Brave' monsters, Hope Keeper's Brave activates! I draw a card for each one!"
Rin swiftly drew three cards.
Ashley exhaled. "Then I cannot attack. I end my Battle Phase. But with your current hand size, Starius loses his Brave boost."
Starius's glow dimmed as his power fell.
Knight of Pulsation, Starius
ATK: 2100 → 1700
"I end my turn."
As Ashley ended, the energy across the field simmered-three Chaos Soldiers glimmering in radiant defiance, and Rin's forces now bolstered by resolve and faith.
In the crowd, Ayu let out a sigh of relief.
"She's still hanging in there..."
Yuya smiled faintly. "And the battle's just getting started."
Rin: 3800 | Hand: 5
Ashley: 3500 | Hand: 3
Turn 5 - Rin
"My turn! Draw!"
The moment Rin touched the top card of her deck, her vision pulsed with a golden shimmer. Her eyes widened as a phantom roar echoed faintly within her ears - the voice of something ancient and mighty. Her fingers trembled briefly. Was it a dragon? A memory? A premonition?
Shaking it off with a sharp breath, Rin regained her composure and assessed the field. Ashley's army of Chaos Soldiers stood firm - three monsters, each with 3000 ATK. A glimmer of steel. The crackle of divine energy. Her expression hardened.
"Ashley has three monsters with 3000 ATK, and he still has that set card," she muttered under her breath. "But I'm not going to let that stop me."
Ashley, sensing her pause, stepped forward. "Are you alright, Rin?"
She blinked and nodded quickly. "I'm fine. Just heard a strange roar in the wind. Nothing to worry about."
Ashley's brow lifted slightly, curiosity sparked, but he said nothing more.
Rin looked at her hand. "Alright then... I activate the Spell Card - Brave Stand of Unity! If I control a 'Brave' monster, I can Special Summon a Level 4 or lower 'Brave' monster from my Graveyard!"
A flash of light spun from her Duel Disk. "Return to my field - Scouting Owl!"
The small, ghostly-white owl flapped its translucent wings as it reappeared beside her, its glowing eyes scanning the battlefield.
Scouting Owl
Level 1 / LIGHT / Winged-Beast / Effect / Brave
ATK: 0 / DEF: 0
"I Normal Summon - Knight of Discipline, Alectos!"
A young knight clad in silver and green armor reappeared, gripping his curved sword and assuming a low stance.
Knight of Discipline, Alectos
Level 2 / LIGHT / Warrior / Tuner / Effect / Brave
ATK: 700 / DEF: 1000
"I activate Alectos' effect! I can increase or decrease a monster's level by 1 or 2. I choose to decrease Altmile's level by 1!"
Knight of Heavenly Decree, Altmile
Level 10 → 9
A pulse of wind shimmered across Altmile's body as his form shifted slightly - more streamlined, as if preparing for a new evolution.
"Now... With Altmile, Alectos, and Scouting Owl on the field..." Rin closed her eyes, her fingers brushing across her Duel Disk as her PSYqualia surged once more - now a radiant gold. The roar returned, clearer than before. Not one of fury - but of encouragement.
She opened her eyes. "Let's go beyond limits. I Double Tune my Level 9 Knight of Heavenly Decree, Altmile with my Level 2 Knight of Discipline Alectos and Level 1 Scouting Owl!"
Alectos and Owl turned into rings of light - three for each - while Altmile stepped into their center, unsheathing his twin blades and raising them skyward.
"With every challenge overcome, rise higher still! Through bonds of valor and wings of fate - take flight and soar towards the future!"
The sky above the stadium erupted with brilliant turquoise energy, the clouds spiraling into a vortex as the Synchro chant echoed across the audience.
"Synchro Summon! Awaken, Level 12 - Transcending the Heavens, Altmile!"
A holy explosion of light roared from above. When it faded, a new form of Altmile descended upon the field - clad in brilliant silver and emerald armor, crowned with a white helm, and brandishing two curved, radiant swords charged with divine wind.
Transcending the Heavens, Altmile
Level 12 / LIGHT / Warrior / Synchro / Effect
ATK: 3500 / DEF: 3000
The crowd exploded in cheers, many standing from their seats. Some girls in the audience blushed or squealed as Altmile struck a noble pose, wind trailing behind his long green hair like a banner of justice.
"Unbelievable!" Nico Smiley's voice boomed across the stadium. "Contestant Rin has just performed a Double Tuning - just like Himejima Ryuki! And now she's summoned a majestic new form of Altmile! What incredible power!"
Yuya's eyes widened. "That's a completely different Altmile than the one I faced..."
"At Level 12... the effects must be powerful," Sora muttered with intrigue.
At the Command Center, Reiji pushed his glasses upward. "A Double Tuning. You taught her that?"
Ryuki chuckled. "Took her a bit longer than Ruri, but yeah. It clicked after three days."
"And Ruri?" Shun asked.
"Got Rank-Up mechanics down in one day."
Back on the field...
"Altmile's effect activates!" Rin called. "When he is Synchro Summoned, he gains 500 ATK for each Tuner in my Graveyard! I have Alectos, Scouting Owl, and Millius - so he gains 1500 ATK!"
Transcending the Heavens, Altmile
ATK: 3500 → 5000
The energy around Altmile intensified as wind howled through the arena. His blades gleamed with blinding force.
"I activate my Trap - Pact of Light and Shadow! Since I control a LIGHT monster and you have a DARK monster in your Graveyard, I send two monsters from my field to the Graveyard and add a card of my choice from my Deck!"
She sent Starius and Porrex to the Graveyard, their figures bowing as they vanished in pillars of light.
"I add the Spell Card - Zeroth Synchro."
Ruri stood frozen.
"What is it, Ruri-nee-chan?" Ayu asked.
"That card... it's one of the keys to summoning a monster like Ryuki's," Ruri whispered.
Everyone around her gasped.
"She has one too?!" Yuya exclaimed.
"She and I both. And we only use them when absolutely necessary," Ruri confirmed gravely.
Ashley narrowed his eyes. "I see... A high price to pay for one card. But I respect your resolve."
"Their sacrifices won't be in vain. Altmile's effect activates!" Rin shouted. "I reveal the top 7 cards of my deck and Special Summon all monsters revealed. They each gain 800 ATK!"
She revealed the top seven cards. Two monsters were among them.
"I Special Summon - Knight of Flight, Danius, and Septgal!"
Danius - a swift, agile warrior with a scarf flowing in the wind - appeared alongside Septgal, a silver-furred dog warrior bearing a curved blade in its jaws.
Knight of Flight, Danius
Level 6 / LIGHT / Warrior / Effect / Brave
ATK: 2100 → 2900 / DEF: 1800
Septgal
Level 6 / LIGHT / Beast / Effect / Brave
ATK: 2300 → 3100 / DEF: 2000
"Danius' effect! If Altmile is on the field, Danius gains 400 ATK!"
Knight of Flight, Danius
ATK: 2900 → 3300
"I set two cards face-down! And since I have 3 or less cards in my hand, Brave is now online!"
"Septgal's Brave - for every other Brave monster I control, he gains 100 ATK times their combined levels! Altmile is Level 12, Danius is Level 6 - so Septgal gains 1800 ATK!"
Septgal
ATK: 3100 → 4900
"And Altmile's Brave - for every 'Altmile' in my Graveyard, he can attack one extra time! I have two - Blue Sky Knight and Heavenly Decree - so that's 2 extra attacks!"
"Unreal... Three attacks at 5000 ATK," Tatsuya muttered.
Ashley's eyes narrowed. "You're coming at me with everything. Then I'll do the same."
"Battle!" Rin declared. "Altmile, attack - Super Soldier! Tempest Twin Cleave!"
Ashley bolted for an Action Card, leaping across the uneven terrain of the Action Field. He snatched one wedged between stone pillars.
"Action Magic - Light Misdirection! I redirect your attack to my Sacred Soldier!"
A bright flash changed Altmile's trajectory.
"I activate Envoy of Chaos from my hand! I send it to the Graveyard - Sacred Soldier gains 1500 ATK!"
Sacred Soldier - Chaos Soldier
ATK: 3000 → 4500
"And if your monster's ATK is higher than its original, Envoy of Chaos resets it!"
Transcending the Heavens, Altmile
ATK: 5000 → 3500
Rin clenched her fist. "Septgal!"
She leapt onto the dog warrior's back, racing toward an Action Card.
"Action Magic - Holy Ward! I take no battle damage this turn! And when Altmile attacks, I activate Triple Drive!"
She drew three cards.
"First check - Spell card!"
"Second check - Trap card!"
"Third check - Monster card! Get, Security Knight, Regius! That means Altmile can't be destroyed this turn!"
Altmile and Sacred Soldier met in the skies. Their blades clashed in a dazzling display - sparks and gusts of holy wind flying everywhere. The crowd fell into stunned silence at the majesty of the exchange.
When the dust cleared, both knights landed, nodding in mutual respect.
The stadium erupted.
"That was awesome!" Tatsuya shouted.
"My spine's shivering!" Futoshi cheered.
"Incredible!" Ayu giggled.
"Well," Rin said, exhaling, "I end my turn. Danius and Septgal's ATK return to normal and due to them being summoned by Altmile's effect, they switch to defense position."
Knight of Flight, Danius
ATK: 3300 → 2100
Septgal
ATK: 4900 → 2300
Rin: 3800 | Hand: 6
Ashley: 3500 | Hand: 2
Turn 6 - Ashley
Ashley stood firm as the lights of the Holy Mountain Action Field shimmered against his armor. The crowd murmured in anticipation, fully aware that both duelists had yet to take any serious damage. The tension in the air was like the string of a bow drawn taut.
"My turn! Draw!"
With a calm breath, Ashley examined the card he drew and smiled grimly.
"It seems the moment of truth has come. So far, neither of us has faltered. But now... I believe it's time to break the stalemate and change the tide of this battle."
He raised a hand, and a strange, rune-inscribed scale with glowing purple light appeared beside him.
"From my hand, I summon Super Soldier Scale!"
Super Soldier Scale
Level 1 / EARTH / Warrior / Effect
ATK: 0 / DEF: 0
Gasps rippled through the audience at the sight of the unique card.
"I activate Super Soldier Scale's effect! Since I control at least one 'Chaos Soldier' monster, I can banish this card to add a number of 'Chaos Soldier' or 'Super Soldier' spell cards from my deck to my hand equal to the number of Chaos Soldiers I control, plus one. That makes four in total!"
Super Soldier Scale dissolved into radiant particles, and four cards floated into Ashley's hand as a corresponding four were sent from his deck to the graveyard in exchange.
"In exchange for that power, I must skip my next draw phase... but it will be worth it."
From the commentary booth, Nico Smiley was practically standing on his podium. "Unbelievable! Contestant Ashley just added four powerful spells in one move! Is this the climax we've been waiting for?!"
At the stands, Yuya's eyes narrowed. "He's stacking his hand... this is going to be a push."
"And not just any push," Yuzu added. "If he gets through with this many resources, Rin could be in real danger."
Back at the Command Center, Ryuki folded his arms as screens pulsed with data from the duel.
"That card just fed him every tool he needs. This will be his most aggressive turn yet."
Reiji leaned forward slightly. "Then it's Rin's test now. Let's see if she can endure."
Ashley held out the first of his new cards. "Let's begin. I activate the Quick-Play Spell, Chaos Soldier Lock!"
A shimmer of dark-blue sigils encased Rin's field as the spell took effect.
"For the rest of this turn, any monster effect you activate will be negated the moment it activates. No ifs, no counters. I'm sealing away your tactics, Kazehaya Rin."
Rin's brow twitched as the magical seal shimmered around her monsters. "Tch... So that's his plan. He's not going to let me activate Igraine's effects even if I summon her..."
Shuzo let out a low grunt from the bleachers. "That's a brutal lockout. Even if she Synchro Summons, she's cornered."
"And he's not done," Sora muttered. "He's saving the heavy swing for last."
Ashley continued without pause. "I activate the Spell Card, Chaos Soldier Restoration! I return Envoy of Chaos from my graveyard to my hand."
Rin's eyes narrowed as she recognized the combo pieces falling into place. "Damn it... he's really setting up a full-line push."
"I've seen enough," Ashley said as he raised his hand to the sky. "Now that you've shown me your ace, allow me to show you mine. I overlay my three Level 8 Chaos Soldiers!"
Super Soldier, Sacred Soldier, and Envoy of Twilight leapt upward, dissolving into radiant streaks of light-one gold, one white, and one dark violet. A swirling black-and-gold vortex opened in the sky as the lights surged into it.
"Three souls bearing the power of chaos will open the path towards a new dawn! Appear before us, warrior who has conquered the summit that stands between light and darkness!"
The vortex exploded into a burst of divine darkness as a knight descended in a flourish of wind and blinding light, landing with such force that the earth cracked beneath his feet.
"Xyz Summon! Be born, Rank 8! Ultimate Soldier - Chaos Soldier!"
Ultimate Soldier - Chaos Soldier
Rank 8 / LIGHT / Warrior / Xyz / Effect
ATK: 4000 / DEF: 3000 | OU: 3
The stadium trembled as the audience erupted. Even Yuya sat back, stunned.
"He's got a 4000 ATK monster now..."
"And with three materials. That's gonna be hard to crack." Gongenzaka crossed his arms grimly.
Ashley gestured to his monster. "I activate Ultimate Soldier's effect! By detaching one Overlay Unit-"
One glowing orb around the knight vanished as a portal opened.
"I Special Summon one 'Chaos Soldier' from my deck, hand or graveyard, ignoring summoning conditions! Rise from my deck-Chaos Soldier - Envoy of the Beginning!"
The ground cracked as another golden-armored knight emerged, standing tall beside the Ultimate Soldier.
Chaos Soldier - Envoy of the Beginning
Level 8 / LIGHT / Warrior / Effect
ATK: 3000 / DEF: 2500
Ashley snapped his fingers.
"While Ultimate Soldier is on the field, you cannot target any of my Chaos Soldiers, or my Gaia monsters, for attacks. And as long as they are on the field, Ultimate Soldier can't be targeted or destroyed by card effects either!"
Rin's eyes widened slightly. "So now I can't even attack anything but Envoy..."
The lockout was complete.
Ashley raised another card. "Next, I activate Chaos Soldier Fusion! With a 'Chaos Soldier' on the field, I can Fusion Summon by banishing monsters from my hand, field, or graveyard!"
From his graveyard, Swift Gaia the Dark Knight and Infernal Curse of Dragon emerged and spun together in a vortex.
"Knight of shadow, dragon of ruin... become one in flames of conquest!"
The vortex erupted.
"Fusion Summon! Descend, Level 7!-Gaia the Soaring Heaven Dragon Knight!"
Gaia the Soaring Heaven Dragon Knight
Level 7 / WIND / Dragon / Fusion / Effect
ATK: 2600 / DEF: 2100
Another roar echoed across the arena as Gaia rode in, crackling energy surging around him.
"And now, I activate my final spell-Warrior's Provocation! All of your Defense Position monsters are forced into Attack Position!"
A magic pulse swept across Rin's field, forcing her knights into exposed stances. Altmile stood his ground defiantly, but Danius and Septgal, still recovering, now stood vulnerable.
Ashley lifted his hand.
"Battle Phase! I'll start with Sacred Soldier-attack Septgal!"
Sacred Soldier surged forward, slashing with divine fury.
"I send Envoy of Chaos from my hand to the Graveyard to increase Sacred Soldier's ATK by 1500!"
Sacred Soldier - Chaos Soldier
ATK: 3000 → 4500
Sacred Soldier's blade radiated pure light as it carved through Septgal's defenses with merciless precision. The explosion tore through Rin's side of the field.
Rin: 3800 → 1600
The shockwave hurled her backward violently. She grunted as she slammed against a tree, using its trunk to slow herself-only to spot an Action Card caught in the branches above her.
She reached out and snatched it.
"Action Magic-Red Apple! I regain half the damage I just took!"
Rin: 1600 → 2700
Ashley narrowed his eyes. "You survived. But not for long. Ultimate Soldier-attack Altmile!"
A wave of power surged through his ace as he made a run toward an Action Card of his own.
"Action Magic-Holy Bless! All my monsters gain 500 ATK until the End Phase!"
Ultimate Soldier - Chaos Soldier
ATK: 4000 → 4500
Sacred Soldier - Chaos Soldier
ATK: 4500 → 5000
Gaia the Soaring Heaven Dragon Knight
ATK: 2600 → 3100
Ultimate Soldier raised his blade, releasing a massive violet beam of power that overwhelmed Altmile's shield. The Synchro Knight of Unity cried out before exploding in radiant fragments.
Rin: 2700 → 1700
Rin braced herself, but her footing slipped on the incline of the altar. The explosion hurled her backward again-this time she landed hard on the marble altar at the peak of the Action Field. Dust swirled as she groaned in pain.
"Rin!" Yuya and Yuzu both shouted from the stands.
"She took a direct hit..." Sora winced. "She's still standing though."
Rin coughed and slowly pushed herself up, her uniform scorched at the edges.
"Okay... okay... that hurt..."
Ashley raised his last monster. "Gaia! Attack Danius!"
Gaia soared high, his dragon mount roaring as he dove. The twin lances pierced Danius cleanly, sending the knight into a digital blaze.
Rin: 1700 → 700
The shockwave cracked the altar stone beneath her. She staggered but didn't fall.
Ashley closed his eyes for a moment. "Impressive. Most duelists would have collapsed already. If not for your quick thinking with that Action Card, this duel would have ended."
He lowered his arm.
"I end my turn. All of my monsters' ATK returns to normal."
Ultimate Soldier - Chaos Soldier
ATK: 4500 → 4000
Sacred Soldier - Chaos Soldier
ATK: 5000 → 3000
Gaia the Soaring Heaven Dragon Knight
ATK: 3100 → 2600
Rin stood tall, despite her body trembling slightly from the force of the assault. Her duel disk crackled to life.
The audience fell silent, anticipation now boiling over into thunderous expectation.
From the Command Center, Ryuki watched without blinking.
"She's at 700 LP. And yet..."
"She's still standing," Reiji finished.
The screen focused on Rin's face-tired, bruised, and focused.
Her turn was next.
And everyone knew it could decide the duel.
Rin: 700 | Hand: 6
Ashley: 3500 | Hand: 3
Turn 7 - Rin
"My... turn..." Rin's voice was strained as she placed her hand over her deck. Her body trembled with exhaustion, bruises painting her limbs from the relentless impacts of Ashley's last onslaught. Her duel disk sparked faintly, reflecting the golden light that filtered through the shattered clouds above.
"Draw!"
She pulled her card with a sharp motion-but as her eyes landed on it, she exhaled softly. It wasn't enough. Not against the wall of monsters that stood before her-Ultimate Soldier, Gaia the Soaring Heaven Dragon Knight, and Chaos Soldier, each standing tall with battlefield presence and the weight of legacy.
Her hand dropped slightly.
Then...
Time stopped.
The winds froze mid-blow. The flickering lights around the field halted in place. Even the blinking cursors and flurrying control panels in the command center ceased.
Rin turned her head slowly, confusion giving way to awe.
Standing before her-tall, regal, and impossible-was a draconic figure cloaked in pristine white armor, wings folded with poise, and eyes of ageless serenity.
"Ultima..." Rin murmured.
United Sanctuary's Zeroth Dragon gazed upon her with silent reverence, then spoke, its voice an echo of divine authority.
"You are at the threshold, Kazehaya Rin. Shall I offer you judgment's blade... or will you deny your destiny?"
"I didn't want to rely on you," Rin said honestly, her voice steady. "There was always a consequence. A price to pay."
Ultima's wings opened slightly.
"The fall of Gyze ended that cycle. Your life is no longer the cost. But... if you still wish to honor the risk, I shall play along."
A smirk crossed Rin's face. "You really are dramatic for a dragon." She took a breath, placed a hand over her heart, and whispered,
"I accept."
Time resumed.
The duel disk on her arm blazed with radiant gold as Rin calmly slid a card into the Spell/Trap zone.
"This duel..." Rin began, her voice echoing. "Is one of the best I've ever had, Ashley. But..."
Her right hand flared with light. A shimmering emblem of the Royal Paladin clan emerged over her right hand.
"...it ends now!"
The crowd gasped as Rin raised her card into the air. "I discard my entire hand to activate the Spell-Zeroth Synchro!"
Flames of white-gold light erupted from the card as the entire field was bathed in radiance. Sparks of data and psionic energy scattered around her.
"She actually used it!" Ruri gasped, pale.
"What the hell is that card?!" Yuzu demanded.
Ruri's hands were shaking. "That card lets her break all limits... but it also-"
Back on the field, Rin spoke solemnly.
"With this card, I Special Summon three Synchro Monsters from my Graveyard or Extra Deck, ignoring their summoning conditions. Their ATK, DEF will turn to 0, their effects are negated... and their Levels become 1."
A trio of light pillars exploded around Rin as Blue Sky Knight, Altmile, Knight of Heavenly Decree, Altmile, and Transcending the Heavens, Altmile emerged, each dulled in gray light, kneeling in solemn silence.
Blue Sky Knight, Altmile
Level 7 → 1 / ATK: 2500 → 0 / DEF: 2000 → 0
Knight of Heavenly Decree, Altmile
Level 10 → 1 / ATK: 3000 → 0 / DEF: 2300 → 0
Transcending the Heavens, Altmile
Level 12 → 1 / ATK: 3500 → 0 / DEF: 3000 → 0
The sky overhead blackened-light fading into a void of stars.
"I use Zeroth Synchro as a Level 9 Tuner, and I tune it with my three Altmile, I summon a Zeroth Dragon." Rin continued, her tone unwavering. "And with that... I offer everything. Once I lose, my Extra Deck will never return and my life.....is forfeit."
A golden sigil-the crest of a Zeroth Dragon-seared into Rin's chest. She clutched it tightly as pain surged through her body.
"No!" Ayu cried. "She's gonna-she's gonna die?!"
"Rin-onee-chan!" shouted Tatsuya.
"She can't be serious!" Yuya was white with panic.
Back in the Command Center, Reiji narrowed his eyes. "So... she really is following through with the old lore."
"She's bluffing," Ryuki said softly. "But she's making it look very, very real."
"From the summit beyond the stars, where destiny is written...The law of endings echoes, absolute and final! "
A vortex of celestial rings spun into being. The sky parted as an overwhelming shaft of light pierced through.
"I call upon the arbiter who silences all defiance-Let judgment fall like the hammer of divine retribution! Devour my future and manifest yourself! United Sanctuary's Zeroth Dragon!
Synchro Summon!"
The crowd shielded their eyes.
"Descend, Level 12! Zeroth Dragon of Zenith Peak-Ultima!!"
A titanic silhouette slowly descended from the sky-wings vast and gleaming, a sword forged of crystal eternity in its hand. As it landed, feathers of starlight fell around it. Even the monsters on Ashley's field seemed to shudder before its presence.
Zeroth Dragon of Zenith Peak, Ultima
Level 12 / LIGHT / Zeroth Dragon / Synchro / Effect
ATK: 5500 / DEF: 4500
In the Command Center, alarms flared violently.
"We're detecting energy surges!" a technician yelled.
"It's the Zeroth Dragon's aura! Trying to stabilize now!"
"Just let her cook," Ryuki said with a faint smile.
"Upon Ultima's Summon," Rin continued, "I Special Summon one Synchro Monster from my Graveyard or Extra Deck. Welcome back-Blue Sky Knight, Altmile!"
Altmile emerged once more, shield raised.
Blue Sky Knight, Altmile
Level 7 / LIGHT / Warrior / Synchro / Effect / Brave
ATK: 2500 / DEF: 2000
"Altmile's effect! I Special Summon Knight of Pulsation, Starius from my Graveyard! And he gains 500 ATK!"
Knight of Pulsation, Starius
Level 4 / LIGHT / Warrior / Effect / Brave
ATK: 1700 → 2200
"At this moment, Ultima's passive activates," Rin declared. "Whenever a monster's ATK or DEF increases, all of my monsters gain that same increase."
Zeroth Dragon of Zenith Peak, Ultima
ATK: 5500 → 6000
Blue Sky Knight, Altmile
ATK: 2500 → 3000
"The field's going out of control..." Futoshi muttered.
"I activate Ultima's effect!" Rin shouted. "I check the top six cards of my Deck-and if at least two are monsters, I Special Summon them!"
She revealed her top six, selecting Knight of Pulsation, Starius and Knight of Ambuscade, Redon!
The second Starius landed beside his brother, blades raised. Redon-wearing desert-style warrior armor and a curved blade-landed beside them.
Knight of Pulsation, Starius #2
Level 4 / LIGHT / Warrior / Effect / Brave
ATK: 1700 / DEF: 1000
Knight of Ambuscade, Redon
Level 4 / LIGHT / Warrior / Effect / Brave
ATK: 1400 / DEF: 800
"Redon's effect! When Summoned, he gains 500 ATK. And again-Ultima's boost triggers."
Blue Sky Knight, Altmile
ATK: 3000 → 3500
Zeroth Dragon of Zenith Peak, Ultima
ATK: 6000 → 6500
Knight of Pulsation, Starius #1
ATK: 2200 → 2700
Knight of Pulsation, Starius #2
ATK: 1700 → 2200
Knight of Ambuscade, Redon
ATK: 1400 → 1900
"And now..." Rin said calmly, "My first Starius' Brave activates. With an empty hand, he gains 400 ATK."
Knight of Pulsation, Starius #1
ATK: 2700 → 3100
The chain continued.
Blue Sky Knight, Altmile
ATK: 3500 → 3900
Zeroth Dragon of Zenith Peak, Ultima
ATK: 6500 → 6900
Knight of Pulsation, Starius #2
ATK: 2200 → 2600
Knight of Ambuscade, Redon
ATK: 1900 → 2300
"My Second Starius' Brave! He gains 400 ATK!"
Blue Sky Knight, Altmile
ATK: 3900 → 4300
Zeroth Dragon of Zenith Peak, Ultima
ATK: 6900 → 7300
Knight of Pulsation, Starius #1
ATK: 3100 → 3500
Knight of Pulsation, Starius #2
ATK: 2600 → 3000
Knight of Ambuscade, Redon
ATK: 2300 → 2700
The stadium sat in stunned silence. Even Ashley, strong and composed, was speechless.
"I..." he began. "I don't think I can stop that."
"You can't," Rin replied, not in arrogance, but in acceptance.
"I attack with Ultima! Targeting Ultimate Soldier!"
She raised her hand. "Ultima's effect. When it declares an attack, I reveal the top 5 cards of my deck. For each one that has Brave, Ritual, Unite, Rescue, Oracle, or Revelation -Ultima can attack again!"
She revealed: Knight of Encouragement, Albion and Knight of Dedication, Jeanne.
"Two additional attacks. But you won't need to see them."
Ashley sighed, lowering his duel disk. "It's your victory, Rin. Show me your justice."
Rin's eyes glowed as she pointed forward.
"Ultima! Sword of Relics!!"
The dragon raised its immense blade, and a heavenly projection of the weapon-miles wide-descended from the heavens.
The world exploded in a flood of white light.
Ultimate Soldier, Sacred Soldier, and Gaia were obliterated in one divine swing. Ashley's LP dropped to zero without even seeing the second or third strike.
Ashley: 3500 → 0
WINNER: Kazehaya Rin!