As the Action Scramble continued to unfold across the transformed city, the Duel Radars across Maiami lit up like a star map, tracking each encounter, each clash, and each victory. While many duelists scattered in search of points, two teams remained motionless for a moment—Yuya's team and Emi's team. Their Duel Pads flashed simultaneously. A private channel opened, revealing Ryuki's face on the other end of a secured video call.
"Everyone," Ryuki's voice was firm but calm. "Be on alert. I have a strong feeling that Academia will strike at any moment."
The mood instantly grew tense. Rin narrowed her eyes, Ruri clenched her fists, and Yuya leaned forward.
"You mean... Sora's homeland?" Yuya asked, his voice low. "Are you saying he might be coming too?"
"There's a high chance," Ryuki confirmed. "If they do arrive, forget the tournament. The city will be in danger. And if that happens—help the civilians. The tournament's points don't matter when lives are on the line."
Gongenzaka crossed his arms. "Then I'll stand alongside you. My pride will not allow this city to fall without resistance."
Yuya and Yuzu nodded. "We're in too. We'll do what we can."
Ryuki gave a grateful nod. "Stick together and use your surroundings. If things escalate, I'll ensure support reaches you."
With that, the video ended. Ryuki stepped away from the terminal and entered the command center, where the core response team was already assembled. Reiji Akaba stood at the helm, directing operations with absolute focus. Shun, Yuto, Serena, Barret, Aichi, Kazumi, Kazuma, Kenji, Chris, and Satoru formed a perimeter around him, their expressions hardened.
"Did you deliver the warning?" Reiji asked without looking back.
Ryuki nodded. "They're preparing now."
Reiji turned to the technicians stationed along the walls. "Initiate the master override on the Duel Radars. I want every system ready to suppress tournament protocols once Academia begins their assault."
The team moved swiftly.
Hours passed.
Ten hours since the start of Action Scramble, and the map of Maiami was a battlefield. Duelists flashed in and out of the Graveyard zone as duels ignited across every quadrant. Elimination rates spiked as aggressive teams racked up wins without hesitation. Already, five teams had secured the required fifty points and were relocated to the isolated Winner's Lounge—safe from the storm gathering on the horizon.
Within the command center, Chris suddenly stood from his seat.
"We've got something!" he called out. "At the Ancient Ruins Zone—there's a distortion!"
The room's screens locked onto the affected area. A glowing ripple expanded from thin air, forming a gateway of warped light.
Then, with a pulse of energy—Academia arrived.
On other screens, more disturbances followed. Signals appeared in the Iceberg Zone and the Volcano Zone. Reiji's eyes narrowed.
"Cut visual feeds on all zones except the Jungle Zone," he ordered. "Contain the panic. We're deploying response units. Prioritize surveillance in active invasion areas."
Ryuki didn't hesitate. He began issuing rapid assignments.
"Shun, Barret, Serena—you're headed for the Ancient Ruins Zone."
"Yuto, Aichi, Kenji—reinforce the Jungle Zone."
"Chris, Satoru—head to the Iceberg Zone."
"Kazuma, Kazumi—head to the Volcano Zone. I want a full interception effort. I'll stay here and give you further instructions. I'll head out once everything is settled."
The designated teams nodded and quickly moved out. Reiji stepped in beside Ryuki.
"The Youth Team's primary mission is to stall and secure any civilians or competitors in the vicinity. Prevent as many casualties as possible."
Ryuki acknowledged the order and began transmitting urgent alerts through encrypted channels to key duelists in the field.
To Yuya's team. To Ruri, Rin, and Emi.
"They're here," his message read. "Regroup. Protect each other. Prioritize safety over points."
In the background, Reiji turned to Nakajima. "Get in contact with the Fuma brothers. Have them extract Yuzu. She's still one of Academia's prime targets."
Meanwhile, far from the command center, snow began to fall gently across the Iceberg Zone. Ruri, Rin, and Emi stood together near the crystal ridges. Their Duel Pads buzzed with Ryuki's message.
"They've come," Emi muttered. "It's happening."
Ruri and Rin nodded in unison. Without hesitation, the three girls began making their way toward higher ground, preparing to reposition for visibility and defense.
At the Ancient Ruins Zone, glowing stone pillars stretched high into the sky. The air grew heavy as a flickering gate stabilized near the ruins' center. From the portal stepped two figures: one was Sora Shiunin. The other, clad in an unfamiliar uniform with a cold sneer, was Gerard.
Gerard scoffed at the landscape. "An ancient ruin? In the middle of a city? Tch. Typical of them to prepare."
Sora crossed his arms. "It's probably an Action Field. I'm not surprised. They knew we were coming."
Gerard turned to the masked soldiers behind him—the Obelisk Force.
"Spread out. Begin operations. If you find Serena, bring her back alive. Anyone else... deal with them as you see fit."
The masked soldiers saluted and scattered across the ruins.
"What about you?" Sora asked, eyeing Gerard.
"I'll find my own target. You're in charge now." With that, Gerard turned and began walking.
Sora's eye twitched. "Why does a jerk like him get to be Elite?"
But he said nothing more. He spun on his heel and began directing the Obelisk Force's flanks.
Yet unseen behind that cold, calculated mask, Gerard smirked.
Or rather—Gastille smirked.
Still not fully awakened, the parasitic demon hiding in Gerard's body bided his time. The fool Sora still believed he was facing a soldier. Once Gastille regained full control, he would tear this world apart.
Elsewhere, in the Volcano Zone, molten heat warped the air around scorched rock. Yuzu had just completed a hard-fought duel, barely earning her next point. As she caught her breath, a voice called out behind her.
"Nice save."
She turned—and blinked in surprise.
"Dennis Macfield?"
The flamboyant LDS Broadway duelist gave a charming grin, his Duel Disk smoking from recent use. "Can't let you get burned by some upstart duelist from Ryouzanpaku."
"Thanks. I owe you," Yuzu smiled.
But their moment of peace was brief. The ground rumbled slightly—and from the smoke, six masked figures emerged. Clad in militarized blue, they advanced without a word, circling Yuzu.
She recognized the colors instantly.
"Obelisk Force!" she gasped.
Just as they lunged forward, a pellet of smoke burst between them. In a blur of movement, two shadows emerged.
"Yuzu-sama!"
It was Tsukikage and Hikage.
With synchronized movements, the ninja warriors created an opening and pulled Yuzu away, vanishing into the terrain. As the smoke cleared, the masked soldiers snarled in frustration.
The rest of the Obelisk Force began regrouping—until Kazuma and Kazumi arrived with a flare of energy.
"You're not going anywhere," Kazuma declared as he activated his GIRS and began his duel with the three other Obelisk Force as he left the other three to his brother.
Kazumi stepped forward. "Senior Youth Team," he said to the soldiers coldly. "Find any duelists still wandering. Get them to safety."
The elite members nodded and vanished into the volcanic landscape.
Three of the Obelisk Force stepped forward, each one bearing a crystal-colored visor—red, green, and yellow.
"You think someone like you can stop us?" Red sneered.
Green chuckled. "You picked the wrong battlefield."
Yellow scoffed. "We'll make you a deal. Surrender quietly, and we'll let you and your brother live."
Kazumi's eye twitched. Slowly, he raised his hand and activated his GIRS. A bright rectangular board formed in front of him.
"You dared threaten Kazuma..." he growled. "You're dead men walking."
The duel began instantly, with all four raising their voices in perfect sync.
"DUEL!!"
Kazumi: 8000 | Hand: 5
Obelisk Yellow: 8000 | Hand: 5
Obelisk Green: 8000 | Hand: 5
Obelisk Red: 8000 | Hand: 5
The flames of the Volcano Zone burned around them—but for Kazumi, this wasn't just another battle.
This was a message.
No matter how many enemies Academia sent—he would stand.
Turn 1 – Obelisk Yellow
Kazumi narrowed his eyes as he examined his opening hand, mentally calculating his options.
"So they're using a Battle Royal format... That means the first turn can't attack. I'll be safe until it's my turn—if I can endure their opening moves."
The three Obelisk Force agents glanced around as their Duel Disks registered an unexpected reading.
"What the—8000 LP?" Obelisk Yellow muttered, eyes narrowing behind his visor.
"You're right," Green added, checking his own display. "Looks like all of us have 8000 LP to start with. Tch."
"Damn it!" Red snapped, clenching his fist. "This'll drag out longer than expected! We don't have time for this—we're here to find Serena and Hiragi Yuzu, not babysit some brat with a death wish!"
Kazumi twitched a brow as they didn't know that he's 21.
Yellow took a deep breath. "Fine. Then let's finish him fast. I'll start!"
He drew sharply.
"I summon—Antique Gear Hound Dog!"
A massive mechanical canine burst forth onto the scorched battlefield, steam hissing from its joints as its fiery core pulsed with energy. With a low, grinding growl, it stepped forward, its metallic paws echoing across the volcanic stone.
Antique Gear Hound Dog
Level 3 / EARTH / Machine / Effect
ATK: 1000 / DEF: 1000
"I activate Hound Dog's effect!" Yellow snapped. "When it's Normal Summoned, you take 600 damage!"
The Hound Dog let out a mechanical snarl before launching a stream of flames from its maw directly at Kazumi. The heatwave surged across the dueling field and struck him head-on.
Kazumi: 8000 → 7400
Kazumi flinched slightly from the impact, but his stance remained steady—eyes locked onto his opponents.
"Tch. I set one card face-down and end my turn," Yellow said coolly as he slotted a card into his back row.
Kazumi: 7400 | Hand: 5
Obelisk Yellow: 8000 | Hand: 4
Obelisk Green: 8000 | Hand: 5
Obelisk Red: 8000 | Hand: 5
Turn 2 – Obelisk Green
"Hmph. Then I'll go next!" Green declared. "Let's crank up the heat! Draw!"
He barely glanced at his card before slamming it onto his Duel Disk.
"I summon another—Antique Gear Hound Dog!"
The battlefield trembled as a second mechanical beast stormed in beside the first, its mouth already glowing with stored energy.
Antique Gear Hound Dog #2
Level 3 / EARTH / Machine / Effect
ATK: 1000 / DEF: 1000
"And of course, its effect activates!" Green sneered. "Take another 600 damage!"
The second Hound Dog barked sharply, releasing another jet of flame that engulfed Kazumi in a burst of orange light.
Kazumi: 7400 → 6800
"And now—Battle Phase!" Green snapped his fingers, and the machine beast lunged.
"Hound Dog, attack him directly!"
The creature's servos roared as it launched across the volcanic field like a bullet. Kazumi stood his ground as it rammed into him, sparks flying and dust scattering from the impact. He slid back a few feet but remained standing.
Kazumi: 6800 → 5800
Green let out a sharp laugh. "How's that, meddler? Starting to regret challenging us yet?"
Kazumi silently shook the soot off his shoulder, staring him down with cold eyes.
"Too late for regrets," Green continued. "This'll be over before you get a turn. I set one card face-down and end."
Kazumi: 5800 | Hand: 5
Obelisk Yellow: 8000 | Hand: 4
Obelisk Green: 8000 | Hand: 4
Obelisk Red: 8000 | Hand: 5
Turn 3 – Obelisk Red
"My turn!" Red growled. "Draw!"
He smirked darkly. "Looks like it's my turn to play fetch."
"I summon yet another—Antique Gear Hound Dog!"
A third of the growling, mechanical monstrosities joined its kin on the field, forming a semi-circle around Kazumi. Their glowing red eyes locked onto him like predators circling prey.
Antique Gear Hound Dog #3
Level 3 / EARTH / Machine / Effect
ATK: 1000 / DEF: 1000
"I activate its effect! Another 600 damage coming your way!"
The third Hound Dog roared and let loose its fiery breath, striking Kazumi across the chest.
Kazumi: 5800 → 5200
"And now... Battle Phase! Hound Dog—attack directly!"
The third mechanical beast surged forward, this time cloaked in flames. It crashed into Kazumi with relentless force. Smoke and ash trailed from the point of impact.
Kazumi: 5200 → 4200
Red sneered, clearly irked by Kazumi's unwavering composure.
"Tch. You're a stubborn one."
He stared at the younger duelist, who stood tall despite the repeated onslaught. His coat was scorched, and faint wisps of steam trailed from his sleeves, but his gaze remained as icy and steady as ever.
"But it doesn't matter. Your LP's nearly halved, and you've done nothing. Once we loop around again, it's game over. You should've stayed in the shadows, kid."
Red inserted a card into his Duel Disk. "I set one card face-down. Turn over."
Kazumi: 4200 | Hand: 5
Obelisk Yellow: 8000 | Hand: 4
Obelisk Green: 8000 | Hand: 4
Obelisk Red: 8000 | Hand: 4
Ash drifted through the air as the three Obelisk Force duelists stepped back, confident in their overwhelming field. Three monsters. Three backrow. 2400 damage dealt before Kazumi had even taken a turn. They expected him to stagger. To flinch. To break.
But Kazumi simply exhaled slowly, brushing dust from his shoulder.
"Three Antique Gear Hound Dogs. 1800 damage from effects, 2000 from attacks... Not bad for brute force tactics," he thought. "But now... it's my turn."
The volcanic winds howled, but the fire in Kazumi's eyes burned brighter still.
Turn 4 – Kazumi
Kazumi remained silent for a long moment. The battlefield around him smoldered from the last barrage of attacks, but he didn't flinch. His coat whipped gently in the volcanic breeze, the smoke curling like spirits around his frame.
Then, at last—he moved.
"...My turn," he said quietly. His voice carried no fear. Only steel.
He slid a card from the top of his deck with calm precision.
"Draw."
His eyes scanned the card with a detached gaze before lifting his head to meet the sneering Obelisk Force.
"Your plays were by-the-book. But the damage you dealt... not bad." He glanced at his Duel Disk. "If our LP were the standard 4000, you'd already be declaring victory."
Then, he looked up. There was no hint of amusement in his voice—only cold truth.
"You asked if I have regrets." His tone sharpened like a blade. "I do. A lot of them."
The Obelisk Force's smug expressions twitched slightly.
Kazumi's eyes narrowed. "But thinking I'm just a 'brat' was your first mistake."
He took a step forward, the battlefield lighting up in his presence.
"I'm 21."
Their expressions faltered. That detail alone struck them like a jab to the ribs. The casual, calculating way he said it... He wasn't some kid caught in the crossfire. He came here knowing.
"Even so," Kazumi said, "when I said I'd enjoy playing with you... I meant it. Shall we begin?"
He raised a card.
"I activate the Spell: Wounds of Shadow!"
The volcanic haze darkened. Wisps of black fog coiled around Kazumi's frame, feeding off the injuries he'd endured.
"For every 1000 damage I took before my turn... I draw one card. I've taken over 3000, so I draw three cards."
Three glowing cards launched into his hand in an instant. Kazumi looked through them, and a smirk broke through his lips.
There it is.
He raised his next card with a flick of his wrist.
"I activate Polymerization! I fuse Stealth Dragon, Burai and Stealth Beast, Meimodanuki from my hand!"
Twin bursts of shadowy smoke erupted beside him. First, a small, sapphire-scaled dragon with a ninja's garb—Burai—drew its kodachi and let out a rasping snarl. Then came the lumbering form of Meimodanuki, a tanuki cloaked in a tattered black shinobi outfit, his right eye hidden beneath a ritual bandage.
The two leapt into the air—vanishing into a swirling vortex of dark violet energy.
Kazumi extended his hand forward.
"From the veil of shadows, where treachery takes form...
The dragon's fangs sink deep into the heart of hope!
I call upon the phantom that thrives in deception!
Let fear consume the light—
Fusion Summon!
Strike, Level 8! — Demon Stealth Dragon, Shiranui "Oboro"!"
A geyser of indigo flame surged from the fusion portal, revealing a towering draconic shinobi in regal midnight armor. Shiranui "Oboro" emerged with a calm, menacing grace, wearing a weathered dragon skull as a mask. Twin golden rings hovered behind him like halos warped by darkness, and a glowing golden third eye gleamed above his brow.
Demon Stealth Dragon, Shiranui "Oboro"
Level 8 / DARK / Abyss Dragon / Fusion / Effect / Dominate
ATK: 2800 / DEF: 2400
Back at the Command Center, Reiji crossed his arms as he stared at the screen.
"Is this... the deck Kazumi uses?" he asked.
Ryuki chuckled faintly. "Nubatama specializes in binding opponent's cards, or in this world, banishing them. But Kazumi's version of Nubatama is very different from the others. Just watch and you'll find out."
Reiji narrowed his eyes as he saw what was coming.
"Since Shiranui "Oboro" was Fusion Summoned, I activate its skill!" Kazumi declared.
"From my Deck, I Special Summon a DARK monster from my deck or hand, and that monster gains 500 ATK. I choose—Stealth Beast, Uzuitachi!"
A puff of smoke erupted beside Shiranui. From it emerged a weasel-like warrior garbed in a lightweight ninja outfit, dual crescent blades gleaming in his claws.
Stealth Beast, Uzuitachi
Level 4 / DARK / Warbeast / Effect
ATK: 1700 → 2200 / DEF: 1300
"Also," Kazumi continued, his voice gaining tempo, "each of you discards one card from your hand."
"Wh-What?!"
"Why you—!"
All three Obelisk Force agents cursed as they reluctantly discarded from their hands, grimacing.
"And because of that—Shiranui 'Oboro' gains 500 more ATK!"
Demons Stealth Dragon, Shiranui "Oboro"
ATK: 2800 → 3300
"But I'm not finished."
Kazumi lifted another card from his hand. "I activate the skill of Stealth Dragon, Genkai! If I control a 'Shiranui' Fusion Monster, I can Special Summon Genkai from my hand, deck, or graveyard!"
Another ring of smoke exploded into being. From it emerged a lean, quadrupedal dragon with ivory-violet scales and a scarred blade clenched in its teeth.
Stealth Dragon, Genkai
Level 5 / DARK / Abyss Dragon / Effect
ATK: 2200 → 3200 / DEF: 1800
"Genkai also gains 1000 ATK until the end phase!"
The crimson light in Genkai's eyes pulsed with sudden power.
Red scoffed, trying to maintain composure. "Three monsters? Hah. That's nice, but whittling us down from 8000 will take ages."
Kazumi slowly looked his way, deadpan. "That is... if you get another turn."
The volcanic air tensed.
"Gaze into the eye of the Demon-Eyed Sovereign, and let your will be his! Dominate!"
The golden third eye on Shiranui's forehead gleamed brilliantly—and then turned blood red.
Suddenly, Red's Antique Gear Hound Dog staggered. Its glowing red optics blinked erratically. Then—its head slowly turned to face its former masters.
"What—what's happening?!" Green shouted, stepping back.
Kazumi's eyes narrowed, his voice almost smug.
"Dominate. A special mechanic of my deck. It allows me to forcibly control one of your monsters—and use their effects as my own."
The possessed Hound Dog growled as it trotted to Kazumi's side.
"And when I Dominate a monster, it gains 1000 ATK."
Antique Gear Hound Dog (Dominate):
ATK: 1000 → 2000
Kazumi continued seamlessly. "I also activate Genkai's skill. When a monster is Dominated—I draw one card."
He drew sharply—and smirked as the glow from the new card reflected in his eyes.
"Well now... it seems I was right. None of you will get a second turn."
He raised the next spell.
"I activate—Stealth Arts: Phantom Fusion!"
A swirling vortex of dark energy enveloped his field as the Obelisk Force agents instinctively tensed.
"This card allows me to Fusion Summon using monsters from my field and hand. And if there is a Dominated monster, I can use that too—as a DARK Attribute Fusion Material."
Red took a step back in disbelief. "You're kidding... you can fuse with our monsters?!"
Kazumi didn't answer. He simply revealed the cards.
"I fuse Demon Stealth Dragon, Shiranui "Oboro" on my field, Stealth Dragon, Madoi from my hand, and your Dominated Antique Gear Hound Dog!"
The possessed Hound Dog reared up and howled as it, along with Shiranui "Oboro" and a small white-clad dragon holding a short blade—Madoi—all vanished into a spinning vortex of obsidian flame.
"From the inferno of the netherworld, where no soul escapes...
The emperor's gaze brings ruin with a single glance!
I call upon the lord of darkness who devours all light!
Let oblivion spread from your unholy throne—
Fusion Summon!
Emerge, Level 12!—Evil-Eye Hades Emperor, Shiranui "Mukuro"!"
A massive pillar of violet-black fire erupted from the ground. An oppressive force radiated from within. Then, from the flames stepped a towering tyrant cloaked in regal, abyssal armor. Shiranui "Mukuro" had arrived.
His body bore elegant skeletal plating, and two dark violet, angelic wings fanned out from his back. Hovering behind him were twin silver rings that pulsed with dark mana. His skeletal helm bore an emerald third eye, glowing like a cursed jewel from the depths.
Evil-Eye Hades Emperor, Shiranui "Mukuro"
Level 12 / DARK / Abyss Dragon / Fusion / Effect / Dominate
ATK: 4000 / DEF: 3500
The Obelisk Force agents were stunned into silence. They could feel it—this wasn't just a monster. It was an executioner.
Standing before them was Evil-Eye Hades Emperor, Shiranui "Mukuro", an avatar of despair cloaked in violet-black flame. His skeletal helm gleamed, his wings unfurled, and his third eye pulsed like an abyssal heart.
Kazumi's expression? Calm. Clinical. Almost cold.
And then—
"I activate Shiranui 'Oboro's' skill," he declared. "When it's used as Fusion Material for a 'Shiranui' Fusion Monster—I can target one monster you control. Dominate. It becomes mine."
Green's Antique Gear Hound Dog began growling... but not at Kazumi. With a distorted snarl, it turned on its own master, eyes glowing crimson under domination.
Antique Gear Hound Dog #2
ATK: 1000 → 2000
Kazumi lifted his hand slowly.
"When Shiranui "Mukuro" is Fusion Summoned, I Special Summon two DARK monsters from my hand, Deck, or Graveyard—and they each gain 1000 ATK."
Dark smoke swirled, and two shadowy beasts emerged to join Kazumi's growing army.
"Return—Stealth Beast, Meimodanuki—from the graveyard."
"And from my hand—Stealth Beast, Mistfrog!"
Meimodanuki landed beside Genkai, cracking his knuckles. The bulky tanuki snarled and readied his stance.
Beside Uzuitachi, a new figure landed—a small, cobalt-blue frog clad in ninja armor with a massive shuriken strapped to his back. Its eyes gleamed mischievously.
Stealth Beast, Meimodanuki
Level 4 / DARK / Warbeast / Effect
ATK: 1500 → 2500 / DEF: 1200
Stealth Beast, Mistfrog
Level 4 / DARK / Warbeast / Effect
ATK: 1400 → 2400 / DEF: 1700
"And now," Kazumi said, his voice lowering ominously, "Shiranui 'Mukuro's' own skill—Dominate. One more time. But this time, the Dominated monster gains 2000 ATK."
The third and final Antique Gear Hound Dog, still loyal to Yellow, suddenly froze. Then, it turned with a guttural growl—and faced its former controller.
Antique Gear Hound Dog #1
ATK: 1000 → 3000
The Obelisk agents took a reflexive step back.
"You're losing your monsters," Kazumi stated. "You've lost control. And now... you'll lose everything else."
He raised a glowing spell card.
"I activate Night Parade of Domination."
The entire field dimmed. Vicious black smoke coiled upward from Kazumi's feet, crawling up his monsters like demonic tattoos. Their eyes gleamed with a vicious golden light.
"This card can only be activated when I control at least two Dominated monsters. I pay half my LP..."
Kazumi: 4200 → 2100
"...and every one of my monsters gains ATK equal to the combined original ATK of all Dominated Monsters!"
The Obelisk Force flinched.
"Both your Hound Dogs had 1000 ATK originally. Combined, that's 2000 bonus ATK to all of my monsters!"
Stealth Beast, Uzuitachi
ATK: 2200 → 4200
Stealth Dragon, Genkai
ATK: 3200 → 5200
Stealth Beast, Meimodanuki
ATK: 2500 → 4500
Stealth Beast, Mistfrog
ATK: 2400 → 4400
Evil-Eye Hades Emperor, Shiranui "Mukuro"
ATK: 4000 → 6000
Mistfrog crouched low, his shuriken glowing.
"I activate Mistfrog's skill. For every Spell or Trap on your field, you take 200 damage." Kazumi pointed at the field. "You each have a card set. That's three total. You all take 600 damage."
Mistfrog hurled his shuriken—it split midair into three spinning blades and struck all three enemies simultaneously.
Obelisk Yellow: 8000 → 7400
Obelisk Green: 8000 → 7400
Obelisk Red: 8000 → 7400
Kazumi now raised his hand slowly and deliberately.
"...Battle."
He pointed directly at Obelisk Yellow.
"Yellow's Hound Dog—attack your master."
The Dominated beast howled and charged forward, knocking Yellow straight back with brutal force.
Obelisk Yellow: 7400 → 4400
"Next... Green's Hound Dog. Attack."
The second Hound Dog lunged at Green, biting into his shoulder with a flash of sparks. Green stumbled back in pain, clutching his arm.
Obelisk Green: 7400 → 5400
Kazumi turned his gaze toward Red.
"Shiranui 'Mukuro'... attack Red directly."
With a burst of shadows, Mukuro vanished—then reappeared behind Red in a flash. The third eye glowed briefly, and a slash of emerald fire struck down Red.
Obelisk Red: 7400 → 1400
"...and I almost forgot," Kazumi added coolly. "Meimodanuki's skill. Whenever a Dominated monster attacks, I can banish one card from your field—and Meimodanuki gains 500 ATK."
He turned and pointed with two fingers.
"Two Dominated attacks. That means I banish your set cards, Green and Yellow."
Meimodanuki spun two kunai and hurled them, piercing Green and Yellow's back row. Their set cards dissolved into black mist.
Stealth Beast, Meimodanuki:
ATK: 4500 → 5500
Now it was just Mukuro. And Kazumi's tone darkened.
"Shiranui 'Mukuro's' skill: when a Dominated Monster is the only monster remaining on an opponent's field—I can destroy it, and Mukuro gains its original ATK. Then he can attack again."
The two remaining Hound Dogs—now the sole guardians for Yellow and Green—locked up, sparks flying.
Shiranui 'Mukuro's' third eye gleamed—and a spiraling beam of emerald light erupted from it.
Both Hound Dogs exploded.
Evil-Eye Hades Emperor, Shiranui "Mukuro"
ATK: 6000 → 8000
Kazumi's tone shifted—colder now. More final.
"Mukuro, continue your attack."
The violet-winged tyrant reappeared in a flash and drove his spectral blade into Green's chest—a clean, precise blow.
Obelisk Green: 5400 → 0
Green collapsed, his Duel Disk sparking wildly.
"W-What is this monster...?" he whispered before falling unconscious.
The remaining two were frozen in terror.
"And when Mukuro attacks," Kazumi continued, "I reveal the top three cards of my deck. For every DARK monster revealed, Mukuro gains another attack."
He drew three cards.
"...No DARK monsters," Kazumi said after a glance. "Shame."
He placed the cards he drawn to his hand with no visible disappointment.
"But I don't need them."
His cold eyes lifted to the two remaining Obelisk agents.
"Meimodanuki—attack Yellow directly."
Meimodanuki gave a feral grin as he leapt into the air. Mid-spin, he hurled three gleaming kunai that struck Yellow square in the chest.
Obelisk Yellow: 4400 → 0
The agent cried out as he was flung backward, smoke rising from his Duel Disk.
Kazumi turned one last time.
"Genkai—finish it."
The draconic shinobi obeyed without hesitation. He soared above Red, sword clenched in his maw. With a flash of violet energy—he descended.
One clean arc.
Obelisk Red: 1400 → 0
WINNER: Onimaru Kazumi
Silence.
Total, unflinching silence.
The battlefield was charred. The Obelisk Force lay scattered and defeated. Their arrogance shattered. Their masks cracked. Their pride—eviscerated.
At the Command Center, several observers stood frozen.
Even Reiji raised an eyebrow, watching the footage in thoughtful silence.
"...Now I understand," he finally said. "What Kazuma meant by 'mental annihilation.'"
Ryuki nodded slowly.
"Kazumi doesn't duel just to win. He overwhelms. Breaks you. Ends you before you ever get the chance to recover."
He narrowed his eyes.
"And when he gets serious... there's no such thing as a 'next turn.'"
-----
With his duel concluded in overwhelming fashion, Kazumi exhaled lightly and turned his gaze to the side—where his younger brother Kazuma was standing tall, seemingly having just finished his own battle.
"Looks like you're done, too," Kazumi noted calmly.
Kazuma scoffed, brushing dust from his shoulder. "They were predictable. Three on one, and they couldn't even diversify their plays. It was the same loop, over and over."
Kazumi nodded, sharing the sentiment. "They lack the adaptability to survive in a free-for-all format like this."
As they spoke, the Obelisk Force members they'd defeated began to shimmer in data particles—forcefully recalled back to Academia's dimension via emergency extraction. The brothers exchanged a glance and nodded.
"They're out. Let's split up—cover more ground," Kazumi suggested.
Kazuma gave a thumbs-up, and they parted ways, both silently understanding their next mission: eliminate more invaders before they could cause any more harm.
At the control hub, Reiji and Ryuki watched intently as the display showed six Obelisk Force agents vanishing from the battlefield.
"Force recall protocol," Ryuki muttered.
Reiji raised a brow. "You're sure?"
Ryuki nodded. "From the way they were withdrawn, it's likely automatic. I suspect it activates when their physical condition reaches critical."
He studied the damage readouts from Kazuma and Kazumi's duels—blistering aggression, overwhelming force.
"If we keep up the pressure and force Academia to burn through more agents, we may cripple their manpower."
Reiji folded his arms, calculating. "Their recovery systems are advanced, but even they require time. If we push them hard enough, they'll exhaust their reserves."
"Agreed," Ryuki affirmed. Without delay, he began transmitting an updated tactical directive to the field:
Engage with overwhelming force. Cripple the invaders. We will wear down Academia's army.
Just as the situation appeared to be stabilizing, one of the technicians gasped.
"President—emergency! The rescue mechanic has been disabled!"
Reiji's eyes narrowed. "How?"
"They... they hacked into the system," the technician said in disbelief. "Academia must have breached our security. We didn't detect the infiltration until it was too late."
Ryuki stepped forward. "Patch the feeds to Ancient Ruins Zone. Now."
The display shifted—and what they saw was horrifying.
A group of Knight of Duelists were being turned into cards by Obelisk agents. And among the wreckage knelt Yuya, clutching his head, his face a mixture of horror and despair. His Duel Disk flickered erratically.
Then Ryuki's eyes widened—his PSYQualia activated on reflex.
"Zarc..." he muttered under his breath.
He could feel it—Zarc's dark essence clawing at Yuya's mind. The twisted rage trying to take hold again.
"I'm heading out," Ryuki said firmly.
Reiji didn't hesitate. "Go. Save him. And go all out. No limits."
Ryuki nodded. As he turned, Reiji called out once more.
"Wait—several of the D-Wheels are now operational. Take one."
Ryuki gave a curt nod and bolted toward the LDS garage.
"Nakajima," Reiji added. "Retrieve two individuals from the arena. Use my authority—they'll understand the urgency."
Nakajima saluted and left at once.
As Ryuki prepared to mount up, he broadcasted a warning across secure channels.
"All teams, alert: The rescue system has been hacked. Multiple duelists have already been turned into cards. Engage with extreme caution."
At the Iceberg Zone, Emi, Ruri, and Rin had just regrouped with Christopher and Satoru. When Ryuki's distress signal came through, their faces went pale.
"They're turning people into cards now?" Rin said, her fists clenched.
Before anyone could respond, smoke flared behind them—Tsukikage and Hikage emerged with Yuzu in tow.
"What's going on?" Emi asked.
"Reiji-dono ordered us to extract Yuzu and protect her," Tsukikage explained. "She's one of Academia's targets."
Yuzu's face turned pale at that revelation. "T-Target...? Why?"
"We'll explain later," Rin said gently. "For now, we move."
Christopher turned to the Fuma brothers. "Take Satoru with you. He's not a frontline fighter. You'll need someone to help secure Yuzu."
Satoru nodded, accepting his role with resolve.
"We'll make sure she's safe," Hikage promised.
As they vanished with Satoru and Yuzu, Christopher formed a plan.
"Ruri and I will head to the Ancient Ruins Zone—we'll regroup with Serena, Shun, and Barret."
Rin nodded. "Emi and I will take the Volcano Zone and link up with Kazuma and Kazumi."
They broke into motion, racing across the crumbling battlefield, time and lives slipping through their fingers with every second.
By now, Kazuma and Kazumi had fought off a dozen Obelisk agents, leaving the volcanic plains littered with damaged Duel Disks and exhausted bodies. Both brothers were sweating, chests heaving.
"Still with me?" Kazumi asked, checking on his younger sibling.
Kazuma gave a short nod. "Barely. But yeah."
Before the final three Obelisk agents could strike, a blinding white light erupted from the horizon—then a screech of tires across obsidian rock.
A D-Wheel blazed into the zone, and atop it, standing tall and wild-eyed, was none other than—
Yugo.
"Who the hell are you?!" one of the Obelisk Force barked.
"The name's Yugo!" he snapped.
"...Did he just say Fusion?" another agent whispered.
Yugo twitched.
"It's YUGO, not Fusion, dammit!! That's it—you're dead meat!!" he roared, activating his Duel Disk.
Within moments—despite the inflated 8000 LP starting line—Yugo dismantled all three agents, his Duel Runner weaving through Action Cards, Synchro monsters storming the field, and LP dropping in terrifying bursts.
When the duel ended and the agents were recalled, Yugo turned toward the two exhausted brothers.
"...You with them?" he asked suspiciously.
"No," Kazumi answered, clutching his ribs. "We've been fighting them non-stop."
Yugo's tension eased. "You okay?"
Kazuma gave a brief nod. "We'll live."
Yugo's eyes narrowed in concern. "...I'm looking for someone. Her name's Rin."
Kazuma raised an eyebrow. "Rin? We know her. She's currently at-."
Just then, Kazuma's FICA buzzed. A message from Christopher flashed on screen:
"Rin and Emi en route to Volcano Zone."
"She'll be here soon," Kazuma confirmed.
Yugo's face broke into a soft, relieved smile. "I see...then I'll stay here and keep watch on you two then."
He remained with them, choosing to stand vigil until she arrived.
Elsewhere in the ruins, Shiun'in Sora prowled alongside his squad, leading Obelisk operatives through the crumbled relics.
"We're closing in," one soldier reported.
Suddenly, Sora's eyes caught sight of someone familiar—Ruri.
His calm broke.
"I don't care about the others," he growled. "She's mine." He gestured toward the others. "Spread out. Do what you want."
Without warning, Sora broke away, eyes locked on the girl who'd defeated him in a past duel. He was consumed by the need to prove something... to reclaim his honor—or whatever was left of it.
Ruri and Christopher had just entered the area when Sora descended.
"RURI!" he shouted. "We're not done! I want a rematch!"
Ruri turned, her eyes cold. "We already settled this. I beat you."
"Not good enough!!" Sora shouted.
Before he could close the gap—
WHAM!
A black-clad blur tackled him from the side—Shun Kurosaki.
"Ruri! Chris! Go!" Shun barked, pinning Sora down. "Serena and Barret are already fighting in the ruins—they need backup!"
Ruri hesitated for a second—but nodded. She and Christopher sprinted deeper into the ruins.
Sora shoved Shun back, growling. "So they've turned traitor, too?! Serena, Barret—they all abandoned Academia?!"
"No," Shun said, rising to his feet. "They've opened their eyes."
He stared Sora down. "You've got the gall to hunt my sister? Then face me instead."
Sora grinned, mad eyes flashing. "Fine. I'll beat it out of you. One of you will talk."
Their Duel Disks activated simultaneously.
"DUEL!"
The shadows of the ruins danced with the flicker of holograms. Sora and Shun's battle—one of vengeance, one of retribution—was about to begin.
-----
At the very heart of the Ancient Ruins Zone, the atmosphere grew suffocating. The once serene stone monuments were now shrouded in ominous crimson light as Yuya Sakaki stood at the center of the battlefield, his duel ongoing against the remaining Obelisk Force agents. His body trembled—not from pain, but from the surging power of the dark aura enveloping him.
The signs were unmistakable—Zarc was beginning to take hold.
Behind him stood two figures—Gongenzaka and Hochun Mieru, both former opponents and now concerned allies. Gongenzaka gritted his teeth, while Mieru's trembling hands clutched the folds of her dress, her eyes wide with premonition.
On Yuya's field, two powerful dragons loomed—Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon and the sinister Dark Anthelion Dragon. Meanwhile, two Pendulum Monsters hovered in the zones—Magician of Destruction on Scale 1 and Magician of Creation on Scale 8, forming the arcane gate that had birthed this chaotic storm.
With a voice devoid of warmth, Yuya declared his move.
"I activate Anithesis Magician's Pendulum effect. Once per turn, I can target an Xyz Monster I control—it gains a Level. I target Dark Anthelion Dragon. Rank 7 becomes Level 7."
The Magician raised his staff, a dark blue aura shining forth. Seven orbs of arcane light descended upon Dark Anthelion, twisting its Rank into a Level with unnatural force.
Dark Anthelion Dragon
Rank 7 → Level 7
Gongenzaka's eyes widened. "He has two Level 7 monsters now..."
But before he could say more, Yuya's dark energy surged again.
"I overlay my Level 7 Dark Anthelion Dragon and Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! I build the Overlay Network!"
As he shouted, two violet streaks of light twisted into the air, spiraling into a black, crackling vortex.
"Dragon of dual-colored eyes, unleash that black scale of wrath and eradicate all that opposes you...
Xyz Summon! Come forth, Rank 7— Dragon wielding the eyes of rage! Supreme King Black Dragon! Odd-Eyes Anthelion Dragon!!"
From the vortex erupted a monstrous black dragon, a skeletal abomination crowned with two distinct eyes—one violet, the other emerald. Bone-like spikes jutted from its lower jaw and wings of dark flame spread from its back like tattered banners of war.
Odd-Eyes Anthelion Dragon
Rank 7 / DARK / Dragon / Xyz / Pendulum / Effect
ATK: 3000 / DEF: 3000 | PS: 10 | OU: 2
A violent wind tore through the ruins as Yuya's dragon took form. Mieru clutched Gongenzaka's arm.
"This is... not Yuya. This is something else..."
Yuya—his expression cold and unrecognizable—continued.
"When Odd-Eyes Anthelion is Xyz Summoned using an Xyz Monster as material... I destroy all monsters you control. Then, for each monster destroyed, you take damage equal to its ATK.
If the destroyed monsters are Level 6 or lower, you take double the damage.
—Black Sun Purge!!"
The skeletal wings of Odd-Eyes Anthelion flared outward. Black fire surged, devouring the three Antique Gear Hound Dogs on the Obelisk Force's field in a single wave of infernal destruction. Their pained cries rang out as their monsters and LP alike were incinerated.
Obelisk Force #1: 8000 → 6000
Obelisk Force #2: 8000 → 6000
Obelisk Force #3: 8000 → 6000
The flames didn't abate.
"Now, I activate Odd-Eyes Anthelion Dragon's effect. By using one Overlay Unit, it gains 1000 ATK for each monster destroyed... and can attack that many times again this turn."
Odd-Eyes Anthelion Dragon
ATK: 3000 → 6000 | OU: 2 → 1
Yuya raised his arm, eyes glowing with malice. "Battle! Strike them all down—Spiral Eclipse Burst!!"
The massive dragon reared back, inhaled deeply, and then roared—a red-and-black spiral flame shot forth, splitting into four distinct beams aimed at all three Obelisk Force agents... and one more.
A metallic screech cut across the battlefield.
VRRRRRRROOOOM!!!
All heads turned. A dark red D-Wheel tore across the stone plaza, glowing with emerald circuits. Its rider was unmistakable—Ryuki, lightning in his wake, his face stern with purpose.
Intrusion Penalty: 4000 LP.
Ryuki: 8000 → 4000
Sparks danced around him from the sudden materialization and system shock, but Ryuki pressed forward, already activating his Duel Disk while moving.
"I activate the Quick-Play Spell—Helm of the Undying! I reduce my LP to 500, and in exchange, I negate all incoming damage this turn.
Then, for every 2 Levels or Ranks of the attacking monster—I draw 1 card. Since your dragon is Rank 7, I draw 3 cards!"
Ryuki: 4000 → 500
Odd-Eyes Anthelion's four fire pillars lashed outward. The three beams engulfed the Obelisk Force members, knocking them off their feet in an explosion of heat and shadows. The final flame raced toward Ryuki—only to shatter against an invisible barrier of emerald light.
Obelisk Force #1: 6000 → 0
Obelisk Force #2: 6000 → 0
Obelisk Force #3: 6000 → 0
The duelists collapsed, their bodies smoking from the force of the attack before being automatically recalled by Academia's emergency protocol.
As silence returned to the ruins, Ryuki pulled back on the handle of his D-Wheel, skidding to a stop before Yuya. He narrowed his eyes.
Across from him stood not a duelist—but a shadow of rage barely contained in human skin.
Yuya... no. This wasn't Yuya anymore.
Zarc's influence lingered like a dark miasma, twisting the posture and presence of the young duelist.
And then... Yuya spoke. His tone was cold, hollow, and unfamiliar.
"...I end my turn."
Yuya: 4200 | Hand: 0
Ryuki: 500 | Hand: 7
Turn 9 - Ryuki
As the last embers of destruction faded and the charred remains of the Obelisk Force were recalled back to Academia, Ryuki finally turned his full attention toward the figure standing at the heart of the battlefield.
It wasn't Yuya anymore.
What stood there was something darker. Something far more sinister.
Zarc—the demonic soul of destruction—had seized control.
Dark energy swirled around Yuya like a suffocating storm. His expression was twisted into a sneer of cruel superiority as his gaze met Ryuki's.
Nearby, Gongenzaka shouted over the crackling flames. "Ryuki! Something's wrong with Yuya! He's—he's not himself!"
Ryuki didn't turn his head. His eyes were locked on his opponent. "I know," he answered. "That's why I'm here."
Gongenzaka clenched his fists. "Then what's happening to him?! What happened to my best friend?!"
"...Let me deal with him first. Then I'll explain."
A moment of silence.
And then, Ryuki raised his arm.
"Atashi no turn... Draw."
A stream of crimson fire trailed from the card as it left his deck, igniting his Duel Disk with flickers of pure will. Ryuki stared at the card for only a moment, then turned his gaze back to Yuya.
"...Zarc," he said softly. "You will leave Yuya's body. One way or another."
From across the field, Yuya—Zarc—laughed, his voice now warped, a distorted chorus of mockery and venom.
"Ho...? Then come and try, worm. Let's see what your fire can do against my abyss."
Behind him, Odd-Eyes Anthelion Dragon snarled—its dual-colored eyes flashing violet and green. The monster loomed with draconic majesty, claiming the battlefield as its own. With Action Cards scattered across the field, Zarc had the homefield advantage. But Ryuki... he didn't flinch.
"From my hand, I activate the Spell: Crown of the Overlord!"
A surge of power rushed around Ryuki's form.
"By paying half my LP, I can Special Summon 1 Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck whose ATK is equal to your monster's.
Come forth—my avatar, my will, my flame—Dragonic Overlord!!"
Ryuki: 500 → 250
A pillar of dark crimson flame erupted before Ryuki, splitting in half as a fiery silhouette stepped through. Wings of burning rage stretched outward.
The battlefield trembled as Dragonic Overlord let out a roar, baring its fangs at Odd-Eyes Anthelion Dragon.
Dragonic Overlord
Level 8 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect
ATK: 3000 / DEF: 2500
Odd-Eyes Anthelion responded with a furious screech, eyes locking with the challenger. And then—without either Duelist giving a single order—their dragons moved.
Flesh and fire clashed.
Odd-Eyes retracted its jagged blades and lunged. Overlord surged forward and slammed its fist straight into Odd-Eyes' abdomen. Sparks flew. Anthelion's claw countered, striking Overlord across the jaw. The two beasts grappled mid-air, a storm of power exploding around them before they were finally forced to break away, landing back beside their masters.
A standstill—but the battlefield now burned brighter than before.
Gongenzaka was stunned. "T-They didn't even wait for commands!"
"Those dragons... they're alive," Mieru whispered.
Zarc smirked. "So... your dragon matches mine in strength. I admit, that's amusing. But strength alone won't save you. My dragons' abilities... their domination... outclass yours!"
Ryuki didn't argue. He simply stepped forward, the faint shimmer of PSYQualia glowing in crimson behind his dark yellow eyes.
"You're right. Your dragons are strong. But mine..." His voice dropped. "My dragons are the proud rulers of the Dragon Empire.
And now... I will show you their true potential."
As Dragonic Overlord let out a deafening roar, the fire surrounding Ryuki surged upward, crackling like a battle hymn.
"I activate the Spell—Overlord Rebirth Ascension! With this, I Fusion Summon 1 'Dragonic Overlord' monster from my Extra Deck, using monsters from my field and hand!"
"I fuse Dragonic Overlord from my field...
...and Flare Trooper, Dumjid from my hand!"
Overlord soared into the sky, his flame now merging with a second figure—a small, silver-shielded red dragon with two red wings on its back. The two dragons merged into a swirling red vortex.
"Incinerate all hope and scorch the path to victory!
Flames that devour even destiny itself—
When one Overlord falls, another rises, stronger and unshaken!
Fusion Summon! Awaken—crimson sovereign of annihilation!
Level 10—Dragonic Overlord "The X"!!"
The red vortex exploded into a blinding inferno. From the center, a new dragon emerged—taller, sleeker, more brutal. Its armor shone like tempered steel soaked in lava. Flames erupted from its shoulders like wings of wrath. And its glowing crimson eyes locked with Zarc's soulless stare.
Dragonic Overlord "The X"
Level 10 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect / Legion
ATK: 3500 / DEF: 2700
A/N: Ignore the Grade 3, Twin Drive and the Critical....
Even Zarc's grin faltered slightly.
Gongenzaka blinked. "Wait... what happened to Ryuki's card?"
"What do you mean?" Mieru asked.
"Look. Look at the monster... it's full art. The effects are still shown, along with the name, ATK, DEF, everything. But no border."
They were right. Dragonic Overlord "The X" wasn't just a card anymore—it was a living presence, breaking all limitations of paper and code.
Ryuki gave them a slight nod, acknowledging their observation.
"...So you've noticed. Very well. Allow me to reveal the true power of my deck.
Rejoice, Zarc... for you are the first to witness it."
His Duel Disk flared. "The X's" wings spread wide. It raised its head—and roared.
"Dragonic Overlord "The X"! Seek the Mate!"
A bright golden light shone above the battlefield.
"I return 5 cards from my Graveyard to my Deck...
And I Special Summon a monster from my Extra Deck that bonds with 'The X.'"
His Graveyard ejected five cards—four returned to the Main Deck. One, glowing with golden flame, flew to his Extra Deck. Ryuki took it.
"The flames of the past ignite once more...
From the embers of glory, I call upon my other self—
The final judgment, the one who scorched the battlefield in crimson fury!
Soul and steel become one!
Unite with your shadow of annihilation—Dragonic Overlord "The End"! Legion!!"
Instead of placing the card in a separate Monster Zone, Ryuki set it on top of the same zone as "The X". A radiant golden "V" burst forth, illuminating both cards as one.
The ground split open. Lava erupted as a new dragon emerged—towering beside "The X".
This was Dragonic Overlord "The End".
More armored than its counterpart, The End was built for total annihilation. A war machine with four muscular arms—two wielding colossal flaming swords, and the other two gripping draconic blaster rifles.
Dragonic Overlord "The End"
Level 10 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect / Mate
ATK: 3500 / DEF: 2800
The heat alone was enough to crack the earth beneath Zarc's feet.
He didn't speak.
For the first time in a long while—Zarc was silent.
The moment Ryuki's two dragons—The X and The End—rose together, the battlefield itself seemed to hold its breath.
For the first time since possessing Yuya, Zarc—the Demon Duelist of destruction—stood in stunned silence.
Gongenzaka blinked, trying to process what he had just witnessed. "W-What... What did you just do?! Ryuki!!"
Even Mieru, usually poised and mystical, could only stare wide-eyed at Ryuki and the two dragons now roaring in unison.
Ryuki turned to them briefly, his tone steady, voice cutting through the chaos like steel.
"That... was Legion. A summoning method that doesn't exist in this dimension."
"It originates from my world—a power that only a rare few Duelists and monsters possess."
Zarc hissed, still rattled. "L-Legion?! That wasn't Fusion. It wasn't Synchro. Not even Xyz! What kind of broken mechanic—!?"
Ryuki ignored his outburst.
"Only select monsters are capable of Legion. When a Legion Monster is summoned, it can call forth its Mate—a partner monster—directly from the Deck or Extra Deck.
They both share the same Monster Zone, and while they retain their individual monster effects, they also unlock a Legion effect—one that only activates when both are present. And above all—" Ryuki raised his hand dramatically, as the flames flared up around his monsters, "—their ATK and DEF are combined."
The duel field cracked beneath their immense pressure as the stats were recalculated.
Legion (Dragonic Overlord "The X" & Dragonic Overlord "The End")
ATK: 7000 / DEF: 5500
Both dragons roared again, their cries shaking the heavens—savage, relentless, and utterly unified. The flames they commanded rose in swirling torrents, wreathing them in power.
Zarc took an involuntary step back.
He felt it.
For the first time... fear.
"'The End's' skill activates!" Ryuki declared. "When Special Summoned via Legion, I destroy two cards on your field."
"Say goodbye to your Pendulum Zones."
"The End" raised both rifles and, without hesitation, fired two streaks of flaming light. Magician of Destruction and Magician of Creation were obliterated in simultaneous bursts, their remains swallowed by the flames.
"Next—'The X's' skill. By discarding one card from my hand, I grant my Legion an extra 1000 ATK and a second attack during this Battle Phase."
Ryuki discarded a card—its data dissolving in a flicker of flame—and the twin dragons surged with power, their aura shifting into a more volatile shade of crimson.
Legion (Dragonic Overlord "The X" & Dragonic Overlord "The End")
ATK: 7000 → 8000
The ground trembled. Even Odd-Eyes Anthelion Dragon—Zarc's flagship monster—let out a low growl. Despite its divine aura, it was being outmatched.
"Let's end this—Battle! Legion, attack!
Twin Crimson Xross Slash!!"
With synchronized precision, "The X" and "The End" launched themselves forward, trails of fire left in their wake. Their combined power could crush empires.
But just before the blow could connect—
"I activate Action Magic—Miracle!" Zarc snarled, picking up a glowing card near his feet.
"This turn, Odd-Eyes Anthelion Dragon can't be destroyed by battle, and I only take half the damage!"
"Think I'm done? Think again! I activate another Action Card—Oversword! Odd-Eyes Anthelion gains 1000 ATK!"
The corrupted dragon's aura flared once more, empowered by the battlefield's treacherous tools.
Odd-Eyes Anthelion Dragon
ATK: 3000 → 4000
The first swing hit. Odd-Eyes Anthelion was thrown backward, wings folded to guard its core.
Yuya (Zarc): 4200 → 2200
But Ryuki was undeterred.
"Second strike—continue!"
The Legion dragons attacked again, their blades and flames colliding with the reinforced shield of Odd-Eyes Anthelion. The spell held once more.
Yuya (Zarc): 2200 → 200
Zarc stumbled back but still smiled as if he'd won.
"Tch. You couldn't finish me," he spat. "I'll end you in my next turn. You should've made that last attack count—now you'll die for it!"
But Ryuki, calm and composed, raised a single hand.
And uttered the words that shattered Zarc's grin.
"...There will be no next turn."
Zarc's expression froze.
"...What?"
"'The End's' skill. When it attacks, I draw and reveal the top 3 cards of my Deck. For every FIRE Monster revealed, I gain one additional attack."
"Check the Triple Drive."
Gongenzaka's jaw dropped. "He gets three more potential attacks?!"
Zarc panicked. His eyes darted across the battlefield. He began to sprint—desperately searching for another Action Card.
"First check!" Ryuki called, drawing.
Dragon Knight, Shakur. "Get. FIRE Monster. One more attack."
Zarc's breathing quickened.
"Second check!"
Dragon Knight, Mbudi. "Get. Another FIRE. That's two."
Zarc's hand extended—his fingers inches from an Action Card glimmering near a crumbled pillar.
"Final check..." Ryuki drew the last card—and held it aloft.
Dragon Knight, Yssar. "Get. Third FIRE. That makes three additional attacks."
Zarc froze. Inches from salvation.
But it was already too late.
"Legion! FINAL STRIKE!!"
The twin dragons of flame opened their maws wide. From their throats burst forth a flame of annihilation—a spiraling vortex of red and gold.
Zarc looked up—his defiance replaced with dread.
"NO! NO!! I WAS IN CONTROL!! I HAD HIM—!!"
The flames swallowed Odd-Eyes Anthelion Dragon—and Zarc with it. The field cracked, the heavens roared, and the screams of the Demon Duelist echoed through the ruins.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO—!!!"
As the final blow landed, the battlefield returned to silence.
Zarc's twisted aura disintegrated—consumed by the flames of Dragonic Overlord's judgment.
Yuya collapsed to the ground, unconscious, the shadows around him fading into nothing.
Yuya (Zarc): 200 → 0
Winner: Himejima Ryuki
Ryuki stood atop his D-Wheel, motionless for a moment, letting the heat settle.
His PSYQualia subsided.
Then, softly—he spoke.
"...May your soul be purged in the flames of the Apocalypse.
And repent... Zarc."
The wind swept through the ancient ruins, carrying with it the embers of a legend reborn.
The Crimson Flame had burned through the darkness.
And for now... Zarc was gone.
-----
The thunderous clash of monsters and emotions finally settled. Ryuki exhaled slowly as the final particles of energy dispersed into the air, his Duel Disk folding down with a soft hiss. He immediately rushed toward the fallen duelist lying in front of him—Yuya.
With composed urgency, Ryuki knelt beside him and checked for a pulse.
Thump.
A slow, steady rhythm pulsed beneath Ryuki's fingers.
"...He's alive," Ryuki murmured with a relieved breath. The tension in his shoulders melted ever so slightly. Despite the chaos they had all endured, despite the pressure closing in from all dimensions, the boy who bore the weight of smiles... was still breathing.
A moment later, two familiar figures hurried across the scorched dueling field. Gongenzaka, ever loyal and unwavering in his presence, arrived first, followed by the mystic duelist herself—Hochun Mieru.
"Ryuki!" Gongenzaka called out. "What happened? And... that power you used... Just what did you mean by saying you're from a different dimension?"
Ryuki stood and turned to face them. His crimson coat fluttered slightly in the wind. His expression remained composed, but his tone carried a note of urgency. "There's no time to explain everything here. I'll tell you everything once we regroup with the others."
He then looked directly at Mieru. "And you... who are you?"
"I am Hochun Mieru," she replied, bowing her head slightly. "A fortune teller and duelist. I sensed a disturbance in the flow of fate—it was persistent, haunting even—so I came to investigate."
Ryuki's eyes narrowed slightly, then softened. "I see. I appreciate your devotion to your role, but right now, it's dangerous for a civilian to be moving around freely. These streets are not safe."
"I understand," Mieru said, nodding solemnly. "But I couldn't ignore the signs."
Ryuki turned back to Gongenzaka. "Take Yuya and Mieru. Head for the Jungle Zone immediately. Aichi is waiting there, and we'll be safer regrouping."
"Understood," Gongenzaka affirmed, his voice solid. He gently hoisted Yuya onto his back, the unconscious duelist's head resting against his shoulder. Mieru followed quietly, walking in step with the upright duelist.
Ryuki followed closely behind. Though the battle had ended, the war was just beginning—and he could feel the growing darkness looming across the dimensions.
LDS Command Center — 15 Minutes Later
In the sleek, high-tech command center of the Leo Duel School, Reiji Akaba stood with his arms crossed, eyes glued to the screen. Footage of Ryuki's duel played in slow motion, pausing at the moment when his Legion Summoning erupted in full glory.
"'The End'... and 'The X'..." Reiji murmured.
He zoomed in on the cards. Despite high-definition scans, something was off—no borders. And more bizarrely, both monsters bore the same strange symbol: a half "V" etched into the edge of their design.
"What kind of summoning was that...? It doesn't match any database records."
The doors behind him slid open.
Two individuals stepped into the room. One was brash and confident, with a cocky grin plastered on his face—Sawatari Shingo, a duel student with raw potential and ego to match. Beside him was a calm, well-dressed boy with ash-blond hair and sharp green eyes—Ashley von Hazelrink, a dignified duelist from the prestigious Celosia International School.
"You called us here, Akaba?" Sawatari asked with a yawn. "Hope this isn't another lecture."
Reiji's gaze remained locked on them. "This is something far more important. The situation outside is getting a bit out of hand. And the reason why I called you two is for an offer."
Sawatari blinked. "An offer?"
Ashley stepped forward, his expression turning serious. "What offer is that , Reiji-dono?"
Reiji finally turned to face them, eyes steeled. "An offer where you can join the fray."
Academia — Throne Room
Back in the shadows of Academia, Professor Leo Akaba stood tall beside his command chair, hands clasped behind his back. Holographic screens displayed multiple failed engagements—Obelisk Force units forcibly extracted from the battlefield, each report marked with a glaring red warning: INJURY THRESHOLD BREACHED.
Leo narrowed his eyes and sighed. "So, the resistance grows... Well done, Reiji. You've exceeded my expectations."
Yet, the brief glimmer of satisfaction did not last long. He pressed a button on his throne, opening the large doors.
A lone figure stepped in, clad in dark Academia uniform and with a twisted grin on his face.
"You called for me, Professor?" Yuri, the most dangerous of the Four Duelists, bowed mockingly.
"You're being deployed to the Standard Dimension," Leo said. "Your mission begins immediately."
Yuri's grin widened. "I've been waiting for this..."
"Do not disappoint me."
With a dramatic turn, Yuri strode out of the room, leaving nothing behind but tension in the air.
But Leo wasn't finished.
He pressed another button, this time summoning a different squad—fifty silent duelists marched into the throne room, each clad in pitch-black tactical gear. Their expressions were cold, soulless... almost mechanical.
The Obelisk Black Ops.
Unlike the regular Obelisk Force, these soldiers were enhanced—implanted with neural parasites that ensured unwavering loyalty. To them, betrayal was not even a possibility. They were executioners with no conscience.
"You will shadow Yuri in the Standard Dimension," Leo commanded coldly. "If he fails in his mission... eliminate him."
His tone sharpened. "Do with him what you wish after. I have no use for failures."
Without a word, the Obelisk Black Ops dispersed into the corridors like a silent wave of death.
Academia — Hidden Prison Block
Far from the grandeur of the throne room, in the desolate outskirts of Academia, there lay a forgotten prison block—silent, isolated, and buried in darkness. In the heart of it stood a solitary cell.
Within it sat a man.
His body was draped in black tactical garb, his hair long and disheveled, brown locks cascading to his shoulders. Shackles bound his wrists, and he sat slumped against the wall like a discarded relic.
But then...
His eyes opened.
Crimson. Glowing. Piercing through the shadows like twin stars of ruin.
A low hum resonated from within his chest, barely audible, like the purring of a sealed beast.
This man had been locked away for a reason.
Not because he was weak.
But because his existence alone was too dangerous.
And now... the world had started to shift once more.
To be continued...
Cards used in the duel:
Wounds of Shadow (Normal Spell)
Activate this card when you took damage after your opponent's turn. Draw 1 card for every 1000 damage taken. But you will skip your next Draw Phase.
Stealth Arts: Phantom Fusion (Normal Spell)
Fusion Summon 1 DARK Fusion Monster from your Extra Deck, using monsters from your hand or field as Fusion Material.
If you control a Dominated monster, you can also use up to 2 monsters from your opponent's field as material (those monsters are treated as DARK).
If this card is in your GY, except the turn it was sent there: You can banish it; add 1 "Dominate" Spell/Trap from your Deck to your hand.
Night Parade of Domination (Normal Spell)
This can only be activated if there are 2 Dominated Monsters on your opponents field. Pay half of your LP and until the End Phase, all monsters in your field will gain ATK equal to the original ATK of all Dominated Monsters on the field. You can only use "Night Parade of Domination" once per duel.
Helm of the Undying (Quick-Play Spell)
This card can only be activated during either player's Battle Phase. By reducing your LP to 500, all damage is negated for the rest of the turn, and draw 1 card for every 2 Levels or Ranks of the attacking monster.
Stealth Dragon, Burai
Level 2 / DARK / Abyss Dragon / Effect
ATK: 200 / DEF: 1000
When a Dominated monster finished attacking, discard this card to the GY and that monster can attack again. And you draw 1 card.
If this card is used as a Fusion Material, return this card to your hand instead of going to the GY.
Stealth Dragon, Madoi
Level 2 / DARK / Abyss Dragon / Effect
ATK: 500 / DEF: 500
If this card is used as a Fusion Material and that Fusion Monster 'Dominates' an opposing Monster, that Fusion Monster gains 500 ATK.
If this card is in your GY and a Dominated monster attacks, return this card to the deck and draw 1 card.
Stealth Beast, Meimoudanuki
Level 4 / DARK / Warbeast / Effect
ATK: 1500 / DEF: 1200
When a Dominated Monster attacks, banish one card from your opponent's field and this card gains 500 ATK.
If this card is in the GY and there is a DARK Fusion Monster in your field, Special Summon this card and banish the top card of your opponent's deck.
Stealth Beast, Mistfrog
Level 4 / DARK / Warbeast / Effect
ATK: 1400 / DEF: 1700
When a Dominated Monster attacks in your Battle Phase, draw 1 card and this card gains 600 ATK.
When this card attacks and there is a Dominated Monster, inflict 200 damage for every Spell/Trap in your opponent's field.
Stealth Beast, Uzuitachi
Level 4 / DARK / Warbeast / Effect
ATK: 1700 / DEF: 1300
When a Dominated attacks your opponent, you opponent cannot activate card effects until the End Phase.
If this card is in the GY and you Dominate a monster in your opponent's field, Special Summon this card and this card gains 800 ATK.
Stealth Dragon, Genkai
Level 5 / DARK / Abyss Dragon / Effect
ATK: 2200 / DEF: 1800
If you have a Fusion Monster that has 'Shiranui' in its name, Special Summon this card from your hand, deck or GY and this card gains 1000 ATK. If your opponent's monster is Dominated, draw 1 card.
If this card is used as a Fusion Material for a 'Shiranui' Fusion Monster, return 1 card from your GY to your deck.
Crown of the Overlord (Normal Spell)
You can only use this card if you have no monsters in the field. By paying half of your LP, you can Special Summon 1 Fusion Monster from your Extra Deck equal to the ATK your opponent's monsters.
Overlord Rebirth Ascension (Normal Spell)
Fusion Summon 1 "Dragonic Overlord" Fusion Monster from your Extra Deck, using monsters from your hand, field, or GY as materials.
If a "Dragonic Overlord" monster is used as material, the summoned monster is unaffected by card effects until the end of your opponent's next turn.
Flare Trooper, Dumjid
Level 4 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Effect / Blaze
ATK: 800 / DEF: 2500
When your opponent declares a direct attack, you can Special Summon this card (from your hand).
If Summoned this way: That attack is negated, and your opponent cannot declare attacks for the rest of this Battle Phase.
You can banish this card from your GY, then target 1 FIRE Dragon Fusion Monster you control; it gains 1000 DEF until the end of this turn.
Blaze: If your opponent controls less FIRE monsters than you do, you can also destroy 1 attacking monster when this card is Special Summoned.
Dragonic Overlord "The X"
Level 10 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect / Legion
ATK: 3500 / DEF: 2700
Dragonic Overlord + 1 FIRE Monster
When this card is Fusion Summoned, return 5 random cards from the graveyard back to the deck and shuffle. Then Special Summon "Dragonic Overlord The End" from your Extra Deck and Legion Summon that card to this card.
If Dragonic Overlord is used to Fusion Summon this card, your opponent cannot activate their monster effects once per turn.
Once per turn: Discard 1 card from your hand and this card gets 1000 ATK and can attack twice during each battle phase.
Legion: When this card attacked, successful or not and this card is Legion, at the end of the Battle Phase, send 2 cards in your deck to the GY and destroy all Spells and Traps on your opponent's field.
Dragonic Overlord "The End"
Level 10 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect / Mate
ATK: 3500 / DEF: 2800
Dragonic Overlord + 1 FIRE Monster
Mate: If this card is summoned by Legion's effect, destroy 2 cards in your opponent's field.
When this card is Fusion Summoned, this card gets 500 ATK as long as there is "Dragonic Overlord" in the graveyard.
Once per turn: draw and reveal the top 3 cards on your deck and for every FIRE monster revealed, this card gets an additional attack.
At the End Phase, if this card is Legion, draw 1 card for each card destroyed outside of battle this turn.