A/N: Now, you're wondering why I haven't uploaded in this site for a while, right? It's because my old laptop broke down on me and I can only upload this on wattpad. Now that I got my shit together, I'll upload the remaining chapters so it can catch up. Anyways, the next update is at Christmas.
In the heart of the Fusion Dimension, three days had passed since Sora Shiunin's forced return. The grand citadel of Academia stood tall beneath an overcast sky, its towers piercing the clouds like silent sentinels. Within its cold, imposing walls, Akaba Leo, the mastermind behind Academia's ambitions, sat alone in his throne-like seat within the control chamber. Before him flickered a holographic projection from Sora's Duel Disk—a device confiscated upon his return, now serving as a treasure trove of data.
Leo's expression was stoic as his keen eyes scanned through duel recordings stored within the disk. His fingers steepled beneath his chin, the glint of calculation never leaving his gaze. He had intended to interrogate Sora personally for a debriefing, but the boy's injuries—incurred during his disastrous mission—had forced the medics to keep him under observation in the medical wing.
Instead, Leo immersed himself in the duels Sora's disk had captured. And what he witnessed gave him much to ponder.
The first recordings showcased Ryuki—the interloper from another world. Leo's breath hitched ever so slightly as he watched Ryuki summon forth Supreme Heavenly Emperor Dragon, Dragonic Overlord "The Purge". The majestic fusion dragon radiated a terrifying authority, its flames consuming the battlefield as if born to destroy chaos itself. The sheer ferocity of its power, the precision of Ryuki's strategies... Leo clenched his fist.
That monster was designed to defeat Zarc, Leo thought grimly, his mind racing. Its abilities... its overwhelming strength... Ryuki's arsenal is far beyond anything we've encountered.
But the surprises did not end there. Leo's brow furrowed as he queued the next duel. Ryuki, this time, wielded a deck of a completely different nature—one that manipulated the field itself, reshaping the course of battle with every move. A deck that countered, controlled, and dominated without relying solely on destruction.
Leo's belief solidified. If anyone could stand against Zarc, it would be him. And yet... he knew bringing Ryuki to Academia's side was impossible. The duelist's sense of honor, his unwavering morality—Leo could see plainly that Ryuki would never accept his vision of salvation through conquest.
Still, Leo pressed on. But then... the next recordings froze the blood in his veins.
It was Rin and Ruri—two of the Bracelet Girls. Yet something was amiss. Their decks were no longer as he remembered. Rin's graceful Wind Witch cards were absent; in their place, a formidable army of valiant knights. Ruri's melodic Lyrical Luscinia monsters had been replaced by a fleet of disciplined, naval warriors. Leo squinted at the feed, confusion overtaking him.
"Why... why are they using different decks?" he muttered.
Zooming in on their duel disks, his confusion turned to dread. The bracelets—those crucial relics upon which so much of his plan depended—had changed. Ruri's once feathered, delicate frame was now adorned with coral-like patterns, as if shaped by the tides themselves. Rin's wind-themed design had been overtaken by motifs of ancient steel and medieval crests.
"No... no, this isn't right," Leo whispered, cold sweat breaking across his brow.
His worst fears were confirmed as he continued watching. The chants—those infernal chants—rang in his ears, even through the cold recording.
Rin's voice, was steady and resolute:
"From the summit beyond the stars, where destiny is written... The law of endings echoes, absolute and final!
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!
Descend, Level 12! Zeroth Dragon of Zenith Peak—Ultima!!"
Ruri's voice, was fierce and unyielding and filled with unbridled rage:
"From the deepest voids of the ocean... where even light cannot reach... The tide of despair surges forth, dragging all into silence!
I call upon the abyss that swallows fate itself—Let the roaring sea become your eternal tomb!
Devour my future and manifest yourself! Magallanica's Zeroth Dragon! XYZ SUMMON!!!
Arise, Rank 12! Zeroth Dragon of Distant Sea—Megiddo!!!"
Leo's eyes widened with horror as the mighty forms of Ultima and Megiddo materialized upon the field in a blaze of otherworldly power. Their presence—it was akin to Zarc's dark majesty. They radiated doom, their mere existence enough to fracture the balance of dimensions. Worse still, Leo watched as both girls sacrificed their very lifeforce to summon these dragons, willing to pay any price.
His breath shallow, Leo killed the projection. The chamber fell into eerie silence, save for his own pounding heartbeat.
My plans... derailed... utterly, he thought bitterly. The bracelets... the keys... I've lost control of the very tools I forged.
He leaned back in his throne, mind whirling. He would need a new strategy—a new path forward. But before his thoughts could coalesce, the great doors to the chamber creaked open, and in strode Yuri.
Yuri's eyes gleamed with quiet amusement. "You summoned me, Professor?"
Leo straightened, hiding his turmoil behind a mask of calm. "Yes, Yuri. I've reviewed the data retrieved by our scout. It is valuable beyond measure." He gestured, bringing up a projection of Yuzu on the screen. "Your new mission is simple: capture her. By any means necessary."
Yuri smirked, leaning lazily against a pillar. "Another girl to chase, huh? Fine, I'll play along."
Leo's tone darkened. "This is no game. Failure is not an option."
With a wave of his hand, Leo changed the projection—Ryuki's visage appeared, fierce and commanding on the dueling field. Yuri's expression sharpened, the nonchalance fading.
"If you cross paths with him, do not engage alone. Bring the full strength of the Obelisk Force. We will tire him out before you move in."
Yuri scoffed. "You think I need help against him?"
Leo's gaze was cold as steel. "You will obey. Understood?"
Reluctantly, Yuri nodded, though his pride smoldered beneath the surface. "Fine. Anything else?"
"One last directive." Leo's voice lowered. "If you encounter Ruri or Rin—incapacitate. Do not engage. The quicker, the better."
Yuri raised an eyebrow but shrugged. "Whatever you say, Professor."
And with that, the fusion duelist turned and left, his footsteps echoing down the grand hallway. Leo watched him go, noting with subtle concern how the darkness that once clung to Yuri had faded, though the shadow of Zarc's influence lingered in Starve Venom Fusion Dragon.
He sighed, weary. His carefully laid plans were fraying. He exited the chamber, mind heavy with troubled thoughts.
Unbeknownst to him, he had not been alone.
From the gloom of the towering pillars, two figures emerged silently.
One was Mikazuki Serena, her indigo hair tied high, green eyes blazing with determination. The other was Barret Gomez, the seasoned warrior, his single crimson eye gleaming beneath his dark brow, the other hidden beneath an eyepatch.
Serena clenched her fists. "I won't sit here while others steal the glory. I'll go to Standard. I'll deal with this Ryuki myself."
Barret placed a steadying hand on her shoulder. "Don't be a fool, Serena-sama. It's not that simple."
But Serena's resolve burned bright. She would prove herself. If Yuri was being sent, she would not be outdone. Seeing no choice, Barret sighed, resigned.
"If you're going, then I'm going too. Someone has to keep you alive."
In silent accord, the two vanished into the shadows, leaving the throne room empty once more—save for the ghosts of secrets and the weight of impending war.
-----
Back in the Standard Dimension, the preliminaries of the Maiami Championship had come to an end. Duelists who qualified for the next round were granted a week to rest, refine their decks, and steel themselves for the coming battles. Among them, the You Show Duel School stood at the pinnacle of expectation. Once dismissed as underdogs, they now stood as favorites to claim the championship crown. The synergy of their fighters—Yuya, Yuzu, Ruri, Rin, and their newfound ally Ashley von Hazelrink—was undeniable.
Ashley's arrival had been an unexpected blessing. Hailing from the Knight of Duelists, Ashley's gallant demeanor and sincere heart had quickly earned him a place among Yuya's circle of friends. His mastery of the Gold Paladin deck—gifted by Ryuki and honed under his guidance—had impressed even the most seasoned duelists at You Show. His progress with Double Tuning became well known as well, but it was his character that drew others near. His bond with Rin in particular blossomed, as the two became close as siblings. When Rin confided in him about her relationship with Ryuki, Ashley merely smiled, clapped Ryuki on the shoulder, and offered his warmest congratulations. Yet, ever the knight, he gently reminded them both: "Your hearts are your own—but in this school, let professionalism guide you."
Today, Ryuki, Rin, and Ruri made their way through the polished corridors of LDS. The message they received had stirred hope—Yugo had woken up.
Inside the medical wing, Yugo was sitting upright, his vibrant energy already returning. His teal eyes lit up the moment he spotted Rin. "Rin!" he shouted, voice booming through the ward.
Before he could leap from bed, Rin marched over and smacked him squarely on the head. "You're too loud, you idiot!"
Yugo winced, rubbing his head, but laughed all the same. "Same old Rin..."
From nearby, Shun and Yuto watched in silence, exchanging glances. The sight stirred old memories—of how Ruri used to terrorize their school grounds, hammer in hand, ready to discipline troublemakers. The memory alone sent a shiver down both spines.
Trying to regain composure, Rin turned to Yuto. "What brings you and Shun here?"
Yuto stepped forward. "We came to apologize to Yugo—for suspecting him and calling him the wrong name. We... didn't know."
Yugo grinned. "It's cool. I get it now. No hard feelings."
Yugo's gaze shifted. His eyes fell upon Ryuki, and in that instant, understanding dawned. "So, you're Ryuki?" he asked, sliding off the bed and bowing low. "Thank you—thank you for saving my best friend. My sister."
Ryuki gave a small nod, accepting the gratitude with quiet grace.
Yuto took a breath. "Yugo... there's much you don't know. About the dimensions. About us."
Ryuki held up a hand. "Let me, Yuto. Both of you deserve to hear it—from someone who's walked through it all."
Ruri met Ryuki's eyes. Are you sure? her look asked.
Ryuki nodded solemnly. "They have a right to know."
And so, Ryuki began.
He spoke of the Four Dimensions—their shared origin as one world, shattered to prevent a catastrophe. He spoke of Zarc, the once-great duelist turned harbinger of ruin, consumed by his own darkness, and of Ray, who gave her life to stop him, fragmenting both Zarc and herself to seal that nightmare away. He told them of their true natures: Yugo and Yuto—fragments of Zarc's broken soul.
By the end, both Yuto and Yugo sat pale, their minds reeling. Their gazes drifted to their dragons, once symbols of pride, now tainted in their eyes by the shadow of Zarc.
Ryuki's voice softened. "Ruri and Rin—they're Ray's fragments. They've been at your sides, to keep Zarc's darkness at bay."
The room seemed to shrink as the weight of truth settled.
Ruri stepped forward, pulling out a card from her deck—a blank, empty shell. "Lyrical Luscinia Assembly Nightingale," she said softly. "The only one that survived."
Yuto's eyes widened. "How...?"
Ruri's voice quivered. "It was Zarc's influence. When I was taken by Academia... Zarc took hold of you. And you destroyed them. My precious cards... all but Nightingale."
Yuto's hands trembled. He clenched them into fists, then slammed one down onto the nearby table. The sound echoed through the room. "No... I should have been there. I should have protected you!"
Beside them, Rin revealed her own blank card. "Wind Witch Winter Bell," she said, her tone bittersweet.
Yugo froze. Memories of battles, of losing control—flooded back. He fell to his knees, bowing his head low. Again. And again. His forehead hit the floor. "I'm sorry, Rin. I'm sorry, I'm sorry—"
Rin knelt, grabbing his shoulders, pulling him up. "Enough! It wasn't your fault. Don't you dare carry that weight alone."
Yugo's tears fell freely. "But I—"
"You're my brother, Yugo," Rin interrupted, smiling through her own tears. "I don't blame you. I wouldn't be standing here if not for Ryuki... or you."
Ryuki placed a reassuring hand on Yuto's shoulder. "Both of you—this is your second chance. Make the most of it. The past can't be changed, but the future is still yours."
Yuto rose, wiping blood from a cut on his brow. He gripped Ryuki's hand tightly. "Thank you... for saving Rin. For everything. If you and Rin... ever..." He glanced between them and simply nodded, offering a silent blessing.
Talk turned to what came next. Yugo's resolve burned anew. "I have to go back—to the Synchro Dimension. My friends need to know what's coming."
Ryuki shook his head. "You can't. Not yet. Your D-Wheel—LDS is using it as the model to mass-produce D-Wheels for the Standard Dimension."
Yugo blinked, stunned. "They're using... my D-Wheel?"
Rin grinned. "And I'm getting first dibs on one of them. Imagine that—a Riding Duel in Standard!"
Yugo laughed, heartened. "Well... if my D-Wheel helps spread Riding Duels here... I can live with that."
Ryuki offered, "Stay with us for now. Until your D-Wheel's ready."
Yugo didn't hesitate. "Yeah. I'd like that."
Yuto smiled. "We'll report to Reiji. Let him know where we stand."
As they left LDS, the group crossed a quiet bridge, city lights twinkling around them.
Yugo hesitated. "Ryuki... what if Zarc tries to take me over again?"
Ryuki met his gaze. "Rin's duel weakened him. If I'd faced you, Zarc might've been purged completely. But Rin did what was needed—she broke his hold over you. If Zarc rises again... Rin won't hesitate to stop him."
Rin smirked, punching Yugo lightly. "Count on it."
Yugo grinned, a flicker of peace in his heart.
Back at the apartment, Dran and Tigar greeted them. The sight of the Zodiac Time Beasts left Yugo slack-jawed.
"Monsters... real ones..." he whispered.
Dran chuckled. "Did we come at a bad time?"
Ryuki shook his head. "Get inside. We have a lot to talk about."
Once settled, Ryuki recounted everything—Academia's threats, the truth of the Zeroth Dragons, the delicate balance of power now hanging by a thread. Dran and Tigar listened, grave and thoughtful.
Yugo, though, could barely contain his wonder, eyes shining as he took in every detail.
Ruri, watching his enthusiasm, sighed. "Is this what you deal with every day, Rin?"
Rin laughed softly. "You get used to it."
The night grew deep, but in that small apartment, bonds were reforged, truths shared, and a fragile hope began to take root—for battles yet to come.
-----
Days passed in the blink of an eye since Yugo's departure, and now the second round of the Maiami Championship loomed large. The tension in the air was palpable—especially for those competing in the Junior Youth Division. Hundreds had battled through the preliminary gauntlet, but after this round, only 60 would remain. Among those vying for victory: Yuya, Yuzu, Ruri, Rin, and Gongenzaka.
For Yugo, his stay at Ryuki's home had been one of the happiest moments in his life—a rare reprieve from his burdens. The warmth of that small found-family, the laughter, the peaceful nights... it was more than he ever dared hope for. When the mass production of D-Wheels finally concluded, Reiji Akaba personally thanked Yugo on behalf of LDS and the Standard Dimension. Yugo, humbled, accepted with a bright grin.
"I'm counting on you," Yugo said as he mounted his D-Wheel, directing his words to Reiji and, more so, to Ryuki and Rin. "Keep an eye on Rin for me, will ya?"
And with that, he roared off, the engine's hum fading as he vanished toward the dimensional gateway.
Rin, energized by the sight of the D-Wheel, turned eagerly to Ryuki and Reiji. "So... can I use one for my next duel?"
Both men shook their heads. "Not yet," Reiji said. "Yuto and Shun have volunteered as our test pilots. We need more data before opening it up."
Ruri tilted her head. "Those two? Why?"
Reiji's gaze hardened slightly. "Because they'll need those skills when the time comes to face the Synchro Dimension. This is preparation."
Everyone understood at once. Rin and Ruri nodded, determination firming in their eyes. Without delay, Reiji reminded them: "The second round is about to begin. You should head to the arena."
Ryuki offered them both a gentle smile. "Good luck. Make us proud."
The girls left with renewed purpose.
The arena was alive with anticipation. Duelists, spectators, and media bustled about as the Junior Youth competitors gathered. When Rin and Ruri arrived, Yuya waved them over.
"Where were you two?" Yuya asked, curious.
Rin gave a casual shrug. "Went with Ryuki to see Yugo off."
"Yugo left? Why?"
"He had to return to his friends. To warn them."
Yuzu, puzzled, asked, "Yugo?"
Yuya scratched his head. "A Synchro duelist who looks just like me. I swear."
Yuzu and Gongenzaka exchanged incredulous looks—until Rin flipped open her Duel Disk and displayed a snapshot of Yugo, grinning and posing beside his D-Wheel.
The resemblance was undeniable.
Yuzu blinked. "They're like twins..."
Yuya smirked, then asked, "So, uh... what's your relationship with Yugo, Rin?"
Without hesitation, Rin crossed her arms. "He's my hyperactive, idiotic, annoying little brother."
That earned a few laughs.
Before the conversation could continue, Nico Smiley appeared, his voice booming over the PA. "Duelists! The second round of the Maiami Junior Youth Championship begins now! Please insert your registration cards to determine your next opponents!"
Cards slid into Duel Disks. Moments later, names and matchups illuminated the screens.
Gongenzaka read his assignment aloud. "Tanegashima Yuzo from Surprise Duel School... duel's tomorrow. Hmph! Time to prepare."
"I've got Naname Mikio from Duel Girls Club. And it's two days from now," Yuzu reported. Mikio waved cheerily from across the arena.
Ruri checked hers. "Albert from Einstein Duel School. Mine starts tomorrow."
Yuzu frowned thoughtfully. "They're known for trap strategies. You ready to take them on?"
Ruri smiled. "Aqua Force will handle it."
Rin glanced down. "Michinaga Suisei from Seafaring Duel School. Mine's tomorrow as well."
She exchanged a respectful thumbs-up with her opponent across the room.
Yuya's eyes widened. "I'm facing Kachidoki Isao? And it's tomorrow?!"
A hush fell among their group as memories of Kachidoki's brutal duel against LDS's Todou Yaiba resurfaced.
"Don't rely on Action Cards Yuya," Ruri advised quietly.
"Yeah. He'll just pummel you if you do," Rin added.
Yuya nodded solemnly. "Got it."
The next day dawned bright and full of promise.
Gongenzaka's match came first. His unshakable defense and overwhelming spirit carried him to a decisive victory, finishing with 3000 LP intact.
Then came Ruri's turn. Albert's traps were cunning, but he hadn't accounted for Aqua Force's relentless multi-attacks. Ruri claimed victory, calm and graceful.
Rin's duel followed. The match felt less like a competition and more like a joyous ride—Royal Paladins and Seafaring monsters clashing in a vibrant spectacle. Rin emerged triumphant, earning not just applause but a voucher for a cruise. She accepted with a grin.
The tournament rolled on. Duel after duel passed until only one match remained: Shijima Hokuto versus Tamahagane You. But Hokuto hadn't arrived.
Back in the command center, Ryuki's PSYqualia flared violently. A vision struck him—a girl with indigo hair dueling Hokuto, a carding device in her hand.
"Reiji," Ryuki said, already moving. "Something's wrong. I'm heading out. I'll report once I'm there."
Reiji nodded. "Go."
At the arena, Ruri and Rin received Ryuki's message: "Stay there. Protect Yuzu and Yuya. I'm investigating."
They shared a look—and agreed. They would watch over their friends.
Ryuki raced through the city, his senses guiding him. When he arrived at the site, it was empty—but the feeling of danger lingered.
He called Reiji. "Academia is here. It's just a small force—two agents. Seal the exits on my signal."
"Understood."
Again, his PSYqualia flared. Hokuto was in peril.
Ryuki sprinted toward the source—and arrived in time to see Hokuto fall to Serena. She demanded information on Xyz remnants; Hokuto denied knowing anything.
Serena raised her device to card him—but Ryuki intervened. A swift strike dropped Barret, leaving Serena shocked.
"Hokuto," Ryuki said calmly, "return to the arena. They're waiting for you."
Grateful and shaken, Hokuto fled.
Serena moved to give chase—but Ryuki's hand caught her wrist. For an instant, both froze. A strange current passed between them. Serena pulled back, startled.
Then recognition dawned. It's him! she thought. The target the Professor spoke of...
She activated her Duel Disk. "Ryuki! Duel me! I'll prove myself by defeating you!"
Ryuki narrowed his eyes. Before he could answer—
"If you want to face Ryuki-san, then you'll have to go through me."
From the shadows emerged Shoji Kazuma.
Ryuki blinked. "Kazuma?! You're here?!"
Another figure appeared: Onimaru Kazumi.
Ryuki's heart surged with relief. "Kazumi-san too? Why are you here?"
"Harmonics Messiah sent us," Kazumi answered. "And five more will follow. And as to why me and Kazuma got here early, we finished our training first."
The burden Ryuki carried lightened in that instant.
Kazuma stepped forward. "Serena was it? If Ryuki-san's your goal—you face me first. I trained under him after all."
Serena smirked. "Fine. Let's see what you've got. Where's your Duel Disk?"
Kazuma raised his left wrist, revealing a silvery bracelet with a red gem. A flick—holograms formed a virtual duel table before him.
Ryuki stared. "GIRS? But how?"
Kazuma nodded. "I'll explain later. For now, we have a duel to watch."
Serena scowled but readied herself.
Ryuki messaged Reiji: Seal all exits. The duel has begun.
No fields activated.
"DUEL!"
Serena: 4000 | Hand: 5
Kazuma: 4000 | Hand: 5
Turn 1 - Serena
The air between the two duelists crackled with tension. Beneath the dim light of the sealed-off zone, Serena's fierce glare met Kazuma's calm, confident smile. The clash of ideals had already begun—before even a single card was played.
"I'll let you take the first turn," Kazuma said casually, crossing his arms.
Serena's eyes narrowed. "Hah?! What's that supposed to mean?! You think I should go first just because I'm a girl?!"
Kazuma sighed and scratched his head, already regretting the politeness. "No! I'm just trying to be polite. Geez, did Academia forget to teach you any manners?"
"Tch! Fine. I'll go first. But don't think I'll go easy on you!" she snapped, drawing her opening hand and assessing her options.
"I summon Moonlight Maroon Tanuki!" Serena declared, slamming the card onto her Duel Disk. A young woman clad in a maroon gym suit with raccoon-dog ears materialized on the field, eyes gleaming mischievously beneath her short hair.
Moonlight Maroon Tanuki
Level 3 / DARK / Beast-Warrior / Effect
ATK: 1200 / DEF: 700
"Then I set two cards face-down!" Two bursts of light marked her traps, guarding her position. "I end my turn. Let's see what you can do!"
Serena: 4000 | Hand: 2
Kazuma: 4000 | Hand: 5
Turn 2 – Kazuma
On the sidelines, Ryuki and Kazumi watched intently, the clash between their ally and the Academia duelist unfolding as they spoke in hushed tones.
Ryuki folded his arms, gaze sharp. "So how did Kazuma end up with a GIRS system? I thought Ibuki had those shut down globally."
Kazumi smirked as he handed over a sleek silvery-white bracelet with a red gem embedded in its center. "Harmonics Messiah helped us recover and restore them. The network's back up—quietly. A few weeks ago, in fact. Messiah said to pass this one to you."
Ryuki accepted the GIRS bracelet, inspecting it with curiosity. "Thanks... Now I'm curious how GIRS will handle Real Solid Vision's tech."
Meanwhile, at the LDS command center, Reiji Akaba narrowed his eyes. The stranger facing Serena wasn't using any standard Duel Disk—an unfamiliar technology adorned his wrist, projecting an elegant holographic board.
"Who is he?" Reiji muttered, recognizing Ryuki's trust in the newcomer. "Patch in the audio," he instructed his technicians.
Within moments, Reiji could hear the duel clearly.
Kazuma drew his card with a smooth swipe along his virtual deck. The card materialized instantly in his hand, GIRS responding seamlessly.
"My turn. Draw."
He examined his hand, a small grin playing on his lips. "This will do. I summon Dragwizard, Liafail!"
A swirl of black flame heralded the arrival of an elf with short dark-blue hair, dressed in a black magician's robe. Dragon-like horns curled from his head, and he brandished a staff crowned with a draconic effigy.
Dragwizard, Liafail
Level 4 / DARK / Elf / Effect / Ritual 3
ATK: 1800 / DEF: 1300
Ryuki's eyes widened with recognition. "His Shadow Paladins... they've become Duel Monster cards?"
Kazumi chuckled. "All of ours did. The transformation was... complete."
Kazuma pointed toward Serena's field. "Liafail's skill activates! When summoned, he destroys one Spell or Trap you control—then I draw a card!"
Liafail's staff pulsed with dark magic before launching a sphere of blue flame that blasted apart one of Serena's set cards. Kazuma drew fluidly, his composure unwavering.
"Then I activate Shadow Sacrament!" A new Spell card appeared on the board. "I send two Level 4 or lower monsters from my Deck to the Graveyard: I send Dragwizard, Cian and Dragwizard, Fuanmach. Since both are Ritual monsters, I draw a card."
Serena glared at him. "Ritual monsters?! So you're a Ritual user?!"
Kazuma offered no answer beyond a calm smile.
He placed another card into his Spell zone. "Lastly, I activate the Spell Card, Abyssal Ritual Fusion."
Serena reeled. "Fusion?! You're a Fusion user too?! So you've turned traitor?! Aligned yourself against Academia?!"
Kazuma's expression hardened. "Don't insult me. I chose my own path. You chose yours. Now deal with the consequences. I use Dragwizard Liafail in my field and Dragwizard Morfessa from my hand!"
Twin streams of black light rose from the field as Liafail and a new figure, Dragwizard Morfessa—a sorceress clad in pitch-black robes, dragon-like arms protruding from her sleeves—hovered into the air.
Kazuma's voice rang clear and powerful.
"From the depths of hunger, where malice prowls...
I call upon the predator that feeds on fear and flesh!
Let no prey escape your fangs!
Fusion Summon!
Emerge, Level 8—Dark Dragon, Carnivore Dragon!"
The summoning was a storm of black energy. The dragon that emerged was massive, scales glistening like obsidian, blue veins pulsing with power beneath. It let out a bone-chilling roar that sent Serena staggering backward, shielding her face.
Dark Dragon, Carnivore Dragon
Level 8 / DARK / Abyss Dragon / Fusion / Effect / Ritual 3
ATK: 3200 / DEF: 2200
"3200 ATK?!" Serena gasped, beads of sweat on her brow. "Already?!"
Kazuma pressed on. "Abyssal Ritual Fusion's effect activates. I send two Level 4 or lower monsters—I send Abyssal Owl and Belial Owl—from my Deck to the Graveyard, equal to the materials I used."
The silhouettes of twin spectral owls flitted briefly above before vanishing into the Graveyard.
"Battle!" Kazuma declared, eyes gleaming. "Carnivore Dragon, attack Moonlight Maroon Tanuki! Black Lightning!"
Carnivore Dragon charged power into its maw, dark lightning crackling toward its prey.
"I activate Tanuki's effect!" Serena countered swiftly. "Once per turn, I can negate an attack that targets a Moonlight monster!"
A protective barrier shimmered into existence, absorbing the dragon's assault.
"Not bad," Kazuma acknowledged, "but the battle's not over."
"You're out of monsters, just end your turn!" Serena barked.
Kazuma's eyes gleamed. "Let the souls of the fallen empower your magic. Carnivore Dragon—Ritual!"
A dark aura surged around Carnivore Dragon as it roared, shadows swirling at its feet.
"Ritual is a power unique to my Shadow Paladins. When I have at least three Level 4 or lower monsters in my Graveyard, I Special Summon two Ritual monsters from it! Return—Dragwizard, Cian! Dragwizard, Fuanmach!"
Two pillars of black flame erupted, heralding their return. Cian emerged, clad in black light armor with a grimoire at his side; Fuanmach, a sorceress of dark allure, brandished her staff with wicked delight.
Dragwizard, Cian
Level 4 / DARK / Elf / Effect / Ritual 3
ATK: 1300 / DEF: 1100
Dragwizard, Fuanmach
Level 4 / DARK / Elf / Effect / Ritual 5
ATK: 2000 / DEF: 1300
"And in addition to that, for every Level 4 Monster in my GY, you send 1 card from your deck to the graveyard! Abyssal Owl, Belial Owl, Liafail and Morfessa are in the graveyard, so you send 4 cards!"
Serena's deck caught on fire as 4 cards flew as it was burned to the graveyard.
"Cian's Ritual activates! He and Fuanmach gain 400 ATK!"
Dragwizard, Cian
ATK: 1300 → 1700
Dragwizard, Fuanmach
ATK: 2000 → 2400
"Fuanmach! Attack Moonlight Maroon Tanuki!"
A cackle escaped Fuanmach as red lightning leapt from her staff, shattering Tanuki in an explosion of sparks.
Serena: 4000 → 2600
"Cian! Direct attack!"
Dark blue energy burst forth from his grimoire, striking Serena squarely and sending her to her knees.
Serena: 2600 → 900
Her breath came in ragged gasps. She wiped sweat from her brow and glared at Kazuma's unreadable expression.
Kazuma set three face-down cards. "I set 3 cards face-down, I end my turn. Cian and Fuanmach's ATK return to normal."
Dragwizard, Cian
ATK: 1700 → 1300
Dragwizard, Fuanmach
ATK: 2400 → 2000
Serena: 900 | Hand: 2
Kazuma: 4000 | Hand: 1
Serena clenched her fists, trembling with fury and desperation. The first two turns had already shaken her to her core—but the duel was far from over. And she would not yield so easily.
To be Continued in the next part...