Chapter 476: Memories Slumbering in the Starry Sky, Time of Awakening—
Under Sheppard's explanation, Hayato finally understood why the Former Master had mistaken him for someone there to Challenge a Dojo.
As Hayato had learned from Sheppard earlier, the archaic "Cyber Style" needed to expand its influence and maintain its development. To achieve this, Sheppard, the current Master, proposed and implemented the distinction between "Inner Faction" and "Outer Faction."
Of course, that's not how it was said publicly. After all, such a division sounded like categorizing disciples by their quality – "Why is your title cooler than mine when we both paid the same?" Officially, this Dojo where "Cyber Style" operates in America is called a "Branch Academy," run like a chain store or a subsidiary.
Furthermore, most of the disciples brought to America had already completed a portion of their training and were among the most promising and talented within the "Cyber Style" Dojo. This was to ensure the "Cyber Style" Dojo could establish a firm foothold in America, currently the most prosperous country in the World.
However, at the same time, Sheppard had also mentioned to Hayato that he was preparing to open a Branch Academy in that rising nation, truly demonstrating his unique foresight.
Opening Branch Academies offered many benefits. For instance, it allowed the previously secluded "Cyber Style" Dojo to showcase itself more and gain fame, while also lowering entry barriers to attract more disciples. Additionally, it provided an opportunity to break out of the old market and forge new ones, much like establishing a second base in StarCraft.
However, other troubles came with it. The turmoil caused by the reforms within "Cyber Style," the cultural integration required for new markets, and most importantly, "Cyber Style" wasn't the only one eyeing the market in America.
Even before "Cyber Style" opened its branch, "Cyber Style"'s old rival, "Psychic Style," had recognized the benefits of having a Dojo here. And they were even more decisive than "Cyber Style," moving their Headquarters directly to this location.
The result was that "Psychic Style," having already passed its integration period with the local culture and begun recruiting disciples, and having secured a foothold in the American market, noticed that its old rival "Cyber Style" also intended to develop in America. Was peaceful coexistence even possible?
"So that's it. These past few days, 'Psychic Style' has been openly and secretly sending people to stir up trouble and undermine 'Cyber Style''s reputation?" Hayato nodded in understanding. "And the people causing trouble are all disguised; ordinary disciples can't even stand a chance against their opponent."
"So, that's why you, Sheppard, invited this old man here to stabilize things and act as a head instructor on the side."
"You brat, I always feel like you're looking down on me, don't you?" The Former Master, having recovered from the previous Duel, sighed and glanced at Hayato, grunting in displeasure. "Only you, brat. You look tall and burly like a gangster, but it turns out you're a Duel King. I was careless, didn't dodge, and you ended up winning."
"Or does a Duel King need three heads and six arms?" Hayato spread his hands helplessly. However, at the same time, because of that recent Duel, he had experienced the Former Master's methods and knew he was indeed extraordinary.
Opening with three Fusions, then a Fusion Cancel on the Second Turn and discarding "(Cyber Ogre)" from Hand – an ordinary Duelist would be incredibly impressive to even stop two Fusions in the first Turn. After all, "(Chimeratech Rampage Dragon)" with 4200 Attack and its "Triple Attack" could crush a bunch of Fodder Monsters. On the Second Turn, he could even bring out an "(Cyber Ogre) 2" for an Attack Surge.
Then, he would use a Fusion Cancel to dodge Damage, and "(Cyber Ogre)" from Hand to pull off another Attack Surge. If Hayato hadn't Drawn the Combo of "(Soul Absorption)" and "(Dark Knight - Gaia)" to finish him off, by the Next Turn, he would have faced at least a 5900 Attack Power "(Cyber Ogre) 2" and a "Double Attack" from a (Cyber End Dragon) that could penetrate defenses.
He had truly mastered Attack Surge and Fusion, the two Specialties of "(Cyber Dragon)."
According to the Duelist strength rating set by the official "Yu-Gi-Oh!" lore book, "Gospel of Truth," the Former Master's Deck was merely a simple "(Cyber Dragon)" + other "Cyber Style" mix, giving it only a "Level 4." However, in terms of experience, courage, skill, and luck, rating him a "Level 5" would be no exaggeration.
Of course, humans can't be compared to dogs. While Joey's luck Level in the official lore books is also a "Level 5," just like Crazy Diamond and Star Platinum both have A-rank destructive power, Joey's luck has always been off-the-charts. A Duelist's strength is never a static statistic like in a video game.
For example, Solomon Muto had a very rich Deck, skill, and experience, and his luck was also quite good. But due to his courage, when Kaiba kidnapped him and forced him into a Duel using the Virtual Projection System, he was so scared that he suffered a heart attack, and later even fainted due to Kaiba's act of tearing up his favorite card.
The Former Master glanced at Hayato and sneered, "Who told the official promotions about you to always be 'a nineteen-year-old boy reaching the peak of Duel Monsters to become the Duel King'? Go find someone on the street and ask for their judgment—are you really nineteen?"
"No one believes it, even I don't, but I am nineteen." The 195cm tall Hayato leaned back defensively, shrugging proudly, then looked at Sheppard. "But, as long as we get through this period and establish a foothold in America, everything will be fine, right?"
"Yes, actually, these past few days, I've also gone to the Dojos of 'Psychic Style' and other schools to 'exchange pointers.' After all, there's a saying, 'Courtesy demands reciprocity,' doesn't it?" Sheppard rubbed his thinning hair, revealing a benevolent smile.
However, Sheppard's personality was merely kind to others. If anyone thought he was easy to bully because of his usual gentle demeanor, they would be greatly mistaken. After all, people who play tactical games like Duel Monsters often have cunning minds, let alone Sheppard, who played a variant of "Cyber Style": "Trap-heavy Strategy Cyber Style."
Since "Psychic Style" people came to cause trouble every day, even if there was no concrete evidence to prove they were sent by "Psychic Style" or other schools (as the opponents also needed to maintain a good public image), there was no reason why their people could cause trouble, but "Cyber Style" people couldn't Challenge a Dojo.
Anyway, ever since Sheppard was eliminated by Hayato in the KC Cup, he no longer had to prepare for matches every day. He simply mimicked Hayato, adopted an alias, and went around daily to trouble "Psychic Style" and other schools. After all, as a certain tactical master once said, "All Strategy is Base Switching."
"Base Switching" in an advantageous position guarantees victory; "Base Switching" in an even position means striking first; "Base Switching" in a disadvantageous position means taking a gamble. Sheppard had truly grasped the essence of this philosophy. It was precisely because he was busy "Base Switching" that he missed the recent events at the KC Cup. On that day, he was engaged in his routine "Base Switching," completely neglecting to watch the matches at the KC Cup. After all, watching highlight reels afterward was just the same.
It was also because he had just gone and overturned a small Dojo that had been causing trouble for "Cyber Style" alongside "Psychic Style." As a result, Hayato, who burst into the "Cyber Style" Dojo without an introduction and looked like DIO, ready to 'high' at any moment, was mistaken for a Challenger by the Former Master.
But now, the misunderstanding was cleared. Hayato felt refreshed after playing a card game, and the Former Master wouldn't dwell on his mistake of misunderstanding someone else.
Of course, even so, this stubborn old man still couldn't bring himself to show Hayato a good face. After all, he had been completely defeated in three Turns right in front of all the disciples; it was quite humiliating.
But then, as if suddenly remembering something, the Former Master turned to Sheppard for confirmation. "Wait, Sheppard, this kid really is the Duel King, right? The one you said you gave that Card to!?"
Seeing his teacher suddenly so agitated, Sheppard nodded, not entirely understanding why. "That's him, that's him."
"Are you talking about this '(Cyber Eltanin)'?" Hearing the Former Master mention it, Hayato also took out the Card that Sheppard had given him from his card box—the supposed "Ultimate Secret Art of Cyber Style," the "(Cyber Eltanin)" Card.
Seeing that Hayato indeed produced the "(Cyber Eltanin)" and even correctly stated the Card's name, the Former Master's face involuntarily showed a thoughtful expression. He looked Hayato up and down, seemingly making some internal decisions.
At the same time, he murmured softly, "His strength is sufficient. If he's recognized by '(Cyber Eltanin),' he should also possess enough qualification..."
When Sheppard heard his teacher mention "qualification," he immediately understood the Former Master's meaning, saying with a sudden realization, "You're right. Since Hayato possesses the ability to be recognized by '(Cyber Eltanin),' then he should also have the qualification to inherit that Power."
"But, teacher, are you sure you want Hayato to inherit that Power?"
The Former Master pondered for a moment, then nodded without hesitation. "'Cyber Style' has never been a sect bound by Sectarianism. Anyone with sufficient qualification has the opportunity to inherit this Power that has been passed down to this day. This is what allows our 'Cyber Style' to continuously develop and evolve."
"Eh?" Sheppard scratched the back of his head. "No, teacher, I meant, you're so petty, and Hayato publicly defeated you and made you lose face. Aren't you going to hold a grudge against him?"
"Bullshit! Am I that kind of petty person!?" The Former Master snapped at Sheppard, glaring fiercely at him. When was I ever petty? That's called chivalry, repaying kindness and vengeance in equal measure, alright?
With Sheppard putting it that way, even if he was petty, he couldn't be petty now. To think he was just planning to openly hold a grudge... no, he hadn't thought of anything at all.
The Former Master stood up, looking at Hayato, who didn't understand what the two enigmatic figures in front of him were talking about, and said seriously, "May the radiance of the Draco Constellation guide your way."
With that, he walked past the disciples practicing Draw motions in the Dojo and entered the room behind the main hall.
Following the direction the Former Master had left, Hayato only then noticed an abstract-style emblem hanging high within the Dojo. It depicted the proof of "Cyber Style" graduation—the (Cyber End Dragon), spreading its sky-obscuring wings under the illumination of starlight, with its three Dragon heads dancing in different directions.
However, due to the starlight's glow, a shadow was also cast behind the conspicuous (Cyber End Dragon), and a Dragon-headed Darkness with crimson eyes lit up within the shadow.
Thanks to the plot he had seen before, Hayato naturally knew that within "Cyber Style," there was a hidden "Cyberdark Style." Moreover, unlike the "Cyberdark Style" that appeared as Real Cards, the "Cyberdark Style" Monsters in the Anime could achieve an NTR (Netorare) Effect with a single Card, equipping Monsters from the Opponent's Graveyard without needing additional Card support.
"Excuse me, Mr. Sheppard?" Hayato speculated, "The inheritance you two were just talking about, could it be about that 'Cyberdark Style'?"
"Hayato, you actually know about the existence of 'Cyberdark Style'?" Sheppard was somewhat surprised. He glanced at the surrounding disciples, who apparently hadn't heard what Hayato just said, and quickly lowered his voice. "It's not 'Cyberdark Style,' and this is also a secret within our 'Cyber Style.'"
"To be specific, we'll have to start from the origin of our 'Cyber Style' Legacy."
Saying this, Sheppard led the way, taking Hayato into the space behind the "Cyber Style" Dojo.
The origin of "Cyber Style," its initial Power, came from the Starry Sky. More precisely, it came from the "Draco Constellation" above the celestial dome.
Sheppard had briefly mentioned this point before giving the "(Cyber Eltanin)" Card to Hayato. However, now, Sheppard began to elaborate in more detail.
Legend has it that within the alignment of constellations in the night sky, a mysterious and immense Power is contained. The radiance cast by the Starry Sky is the mystery passed down by "Cyber Style," and the initial and most fundamental evolution of this mystery is "(Cyber Dragon)."
Yet, besides the radiance, the light of the Starry Sky also created unique shadows. What was passed down in "Cyber Style" alongside "(Cyber Dragon)," in a similar yet different form, was the "Cyberdark Style," exemplified by "(Cyberdark Dragon Bone)."
But what Sheppard was now taking Hayato to see was neither the "Cyber Style" that symbolized "projection" nor the "Cyberdark Style" that symbolized the shadows. Instead, it was the "light Power" of the Starry Sky itself, restored by tracing back the origins of these two forces—it was the "Draco Constellation" itself.
The ultimate Legacy of "Cyber Style"—even the Former Master and current Master Sheppard had never witnessed its full grandeur. But Sheppard described it as "Memories slumbering in the Starry Sky, time of awakening."
Looking at the majestic statue standing before him at the very end of the inner area of the "Cyber Style" Dojo, a statue that simply by looking at it inspired a sense of reverence from the depths of his Mind, Hayato couldn't help but quip:
"I thought I was Yusa Naoma, so how am I seeing Kuroda Yami's Cards?"
"It's certainly surprising, yet perfectly logical. It's very O. Henry."
(end of chapter)
Chapter 477: Cyber Style vs. Cyberdark Style
It was a bright day, and Brick Street enjoyed pleasant sunshine. The sun cast gentle warmth upon the land and the leaves in the park, and the evaporating moisture made the air smell quite fresh and natural.
Inside the Cyber Style Dojo at 177A Brick Street, the apprentices of the American branch lined up in neat rows, practicing their Draw moves in unison using the simulation Duel Disks strapped to their wrists. Their movements were coordinated and full of vitality.
Behind the main hall where the Cyber Style Dojo apprentices practiced, Hayato received a metal box from a solemn-faced Sheppard.
On Hayato's shoulder, the unseen Rainbow Kuriboh floated nearby, curiously observing the intricately detailed metal box in Hayato's hands, which had several glowing lights and a sci-fi appearance, seemingly containing something. "Kuririri?"
After handing the iron box to Hayato, Sheppard turned around and pushed the opened compartment on the statue's chest back into place. The iron box had been hidden inside it before.
"This is the ultimate legacy of Cyber Style, which has been passed down to this day, yet remains uninherited," on the other side, the Former Master approached with a Deck in hand, looking at Hayato seriously. "This Starlight from the heavens, do you truly possess the qualifications to comprehend its truth?"
"Even if you guys speak so mystically, I can't give you an accurate answer," Hayato scrutinized the exquisite iron box in his hands, but after a long while, he still couldn't figure out how to open it.
More precisely, the box had no seams at all. If Sheppard and the Former Master weren't so serious, Hayato might even suspect that the thing in his hand was just an unopenable metal block.
There was no "keyhole" or anything similar. Hayato even deliberately imitated a certain main rider.
"I will bring smiles to all Shadow Realm Trap-heavy strategies, and I will keep my word!" With his hands gripping each end of the box, Hayato shouted as he exerted force, "I am Lulu!"
But unfortunately, Hayato wasn't a rider capable of brute-force authorization; the box in his hands remained perfectly still.
This made Hayato envious. If only he had the grip strength of a Hanma Alien, he wouldn't struggle to open such a thing.
Weighing the box in his hands, Hayato regretfully said, "Hmm, it seems I don't have the qualifications to open this either."
Glancing at the statue next to Sheppard, Hayato said with a hint of regret, "The Drytron is right before my eyes, yet I cannot touch it. It's a bit of a pity."
Upon seeing that statue, Hayato had actually already known the true identity of the "ultimate legacy" of Cyber Style, because the statue was clearly the "Big Bro" of the famous Drytron Archetype, Drytron Meteonis Dracoverlord.
As for why Hayato put "Big Bro" in quotation marks, even though Drytron Meteonis Dracoverlord is undoubtedly the ultimate Boss Monster of the Drytron Archetype?
As everyone knows, the Destiny HERO Archetype's Boss Monster, Destiny HERO - Destroyer Phoenix Enforcer, appears in various Decks. So, it's only reasonable for a few copies of Herald of Ultimateness, Herald of Perfection, and Cyber Angel Benten to infiltrate a Drytron Deck. After all, who can refuse "cool" Monsters with powerful Effects?
Consequently, even though Drytron Meteonis Dracoverlord and Drytron Meteonis Draconids are the actual big and second big brothers of the Drytron Archetype, they can only appear in Dump Truck Decks due to their Level 12 and "cannot be Normal Summoned" conditions.
From this, one can conclude that Card Players are actually NTR enthusiasts. Argument successful.
Although Hayato was no longer the novice he was when he first arrived in the Yu-Gi-Oh! World, with barely any Effect Monsters in his Deck, and now had several backup Decks, who could refuse a Meta Deck that was undoubtedly a "Meta Deck" for the DM era?
What's more, the Drytron Deck accounted for two-thirds of the most common XP among Card Players. As a "Dragon Enthusiast" + "Machine Lover," Hayato had no resistance to the cool Drytron.
However, if he couldn't open the box that supposedly contained the Drytron, there wasn't much he could do.
Seeing Hayato's regretful expression, Sheppard, however, smiled. "Of course, you can't open it that way, Hayato-kun."
"Do you remember what I mentioned to you during the KC Cup? That Cyber Eltanin is closer to the secret teachings of Cyber Style than Cyber Dragon. This isn't to say that Cyber Eltanin's power absolutely surpasses the potential of Cyber Dragon, but rather to say—"
Click. Sheppard put on his Duel Disk and took a Deck offered by the Former Master.
"—The 'key' to unlock Cyber Style's ultimate legacy is the Cyber Eltanin Card."
Saying this, Sheppard took a deep breath and inserted the Deck into his Duel Disk. However, as the Duel Disk deployed, Sheppard's face involuntarily twisted in a grimace, as if he had been shocked by static electricity or something similar, and his body hunched over slightly.
"Are you alright, Mr. Sheppard?" Hayato rushed forward, wanting to help Sheppard up, but Sheppard extended his hand, stopping Hayato from approaching.
Standing upright, Sheppard's breathing became heavy. "Hayato, if you know about the existence of Cyberdark Style, then you must also be aware of its dangers."
"As the 'shadow' of Cyber Style cast by the 'Starlight,' Cyberdark Style is even closer to the 'Starlight' than Outer Cyber Style. Therefore, only through the clash of Cyberdark Style and Cyber Eltanin can one reach the truth of the 'Starlight'."
"Sensei and I have placed the ultimate legacy of Cyber Style on you, so Hayato-kun, show me your brilliance and let me know that the 'Starlight' indeed has the possibility to bloom in your hands!"
After hearing Sheppard's words, Hayato gazed at the beads of sweat gradually appearing on Sheppard's forehead, realizing that he was already starting to bear the physical burden that often accompanied Cyberdark Style.
Taking the Cyber Eltanin Card from his waist-mounted Card case, Hayato took a deep breath, calming his mind.
"I understand, Mr. Sheppard." Hayato took out the Deck that had been refined in his System's Inventory, placed Cyber Eltanin into it, and inserted it into his Duel Disk, letting the Duel Disk automatically Shuffle. "I will end this Duel as quickly as possible."
Cyberdark Style, as the counterpart to Outer Cyber Style, contained not just simple power. However, the saying "powerful Cards often come with great risks" was perfectly suited to describe Cyberdark Style.
In the storyline Hayato knew, Zane Truesdale, known as Hell Kaiser, suffered greatly from the physical burden of Cyberdark Style, with his body once becoming a wreck, especially his heart, which deteriorated to the point where he could no longer Duel.
And now, Sheppard was using such a self-harming Deck to help Hayato obtain the Drytron. Hayato naturally had to avoid disappointing him as much as possible and achieve his goal quickly before Sheppard suffered too much.
The Former Master stood between Hayato and Sheppard, directly in front of the Drytron Meteonis Dracoverlord statue, serving as the Judge for their Duel. "The potential for Cyber Style's legacy to bloom rests on both of you. Give it your all in this battle."
"I declare, Duel start!"
"Duel!" Hayato and Sheppard shouted in unison, drawing their respective Hands.
[Hayato: 4000 LP, Hand 5]
[Sheppard: 4000 LP, Hand 5]
"I'll take the First Turn, My Turn, Draw!"
Hayato seized the First Turn, drawing a Card.
Compared to Outer Cyber Style, the Cyberdark Style Sheppard used had a different Dueling style, being less focused on Attack Surge. Therefore, Hayato chose to go first.
The Card he drew this Turn was the Spell Card Card of Demise. Drawing this Card before Sheppard's Turn began was quite lucky for Hayato, because with this Card, he could freely spend Cards and then instantly replenish his Hand with one Card, at the cost of letting Sheppard Draw one Card.
And it was extremely easy for Hayato to play all the Cards in his Hand within one Turn.
"I Activate the Effect of Cyber Dragon Herz from my Hand! Once per Turn, I Send one other Monster from my Hand to the Graveyard, then Special Summon Cyber Dragon Herz from my Hand in Attack Position!"
Sending a Card to the Graveyard, Hayato placed Cyber Dragon Herz from his Hand onto his Duel Disk in Attack Position.
"Additionally, when Cyber Dragon Herz is successfully Summoned or Special Summoned, I can Special Summon one Machine-Type Monster with 2100 ATK or DEF from my Graveyard to the Field. After this Effect Activates, I cannot Special Summon non-Machine-Type Monsters until the End Turn."
On Hayato's Field, a Cyber Dragon derivative model—Cyber Dragon Herz—appeared. It had a softer, more slender body than the basic Cyber Dragon, and was equipped with a pair of metallic wings, making it resemble a Wyvern.
[Cyber Dragon Herz][Level 1/LIGHT Attribute]
[Machine-Type/Effect]
[200 ATK/200 DEF]
"A new Cyber Dragon I've never seen before. Indeed, in you, Hayato, there are miracles and possibilities!" Sheppard exclaimed, watching the azure specks of light shimmer on Cyber Dragon Herz's body, purple rays project from the hexagonal halo connecting its wings, and a phantom model construct itself beside it.
"However, a Machine-Type Monster with 2100 ATK or DEF, Hayato. The Card you just Sent to the Graveyard must have been Cyber Dragon, right?"
Hayato nodded. Cyber Dragon, which had been Sent to the Graveyard just seconds ago, was Special Summoned to his Field as if it had simply taken a quick tour of the Graveyard, and was placed in the zone next to Cyber Dragon Herz. "After all, for a Machine-Type Monster with 2100 ATK, Cyber Dragon is the first one I'd think of too."
"Then, I Special Summon Cyber Dragon from my Graveyard in Attack Position! I then Chain the Effect of Cyber Dragon Core from my Hand! When I successfully Summon or Special Summon a Cyber Dragon, I can Special Summon Cyber Dragon Core from my Hand in Defense Position!"
Beside Cyber Dragon Herz, the phantom model of Cyber Dragon it had projected earlier transformed from illusory to real. Cyber Dragon stood proudly on Hayato's Field. And beside Cyber Dragon, Cyber Dragon Core, with its slender, entirely silver body and only purple mechanical joints, quietly appeared alongside Cyber Dragon.
[Cyber Dragon][2100 ATK]
[Cyber Dragon Core][Level 4/LIGHT Attribute]
[Machine-Type/Effect]
[1100 ATK/1600 DEF]
"Because of Cyber Dragon Core's Effect, as long as it exists in the Monster Zone, all Cyber Dragon on my Field gain 500 ATK/DEF. Additionally, both Cyber Dragon Core and Cyber Dragon Herz have the Effect that while they are on the Field or in the Graveyard, their Card names are treated as Cyber Dragon."
[Cyber Dragon][2100 ATK → 2600 ATK]
[Cyber Dragon Herz][200 ATK → 700 ATK]
[Cyber Dragon Core][1600 DEF → 2100 DEF]
Hayato played a Card from his Hand: "However, the ATK/DEF increase Effect can be ignored for now, because I will use the Effect of King of the Swamp from my Hand. I Discard this Card from my Hand to the Graveyard to Add one Polymerization from my Deck to my Hand."
"Then, I Target Cyber Dragon on my Field, as well as Cyber Dragon Herz and Cyber Dragon Core, which are treated as Cyber Dragon, as Fusion Material! Activate the Spell Card Polymerization!"
"I have three Cyber Dragons! I will Overlay them!"
"Watch closely, Sheppard, this is my struggle!"
"Fusion Summon, Cyber End Dragon!"
The power of Fusion unfolded, and the three Cyber Dragons on Hayato's Field were enveloped and twisted, and the symbol of Cyber Style after combining—Cyber End Dragon—Descended onto Hayato's Field!
[Cyber End Dragon][4000 ATK]
Even without relying on high-risk Cards like Power Bond or Limiter Removal, Cyber End Dragon, Fusion Summoned from three Machine-Type Monsters, started with a formidable 4000 ATK, comparable to Obelisk the Tormentor.
But Hayato's operations were not yet complete.
"You Fusion Summoned Cyber End Dragon on the First Turn? Even within Cyber Style, those who can do this are few and far between," Sheppard praised, but his gaze was fixed on Hayato's two remaining Cards in Hand. "And you still have plenty of power left, don't you?"
"I Activate the Spell Card, Cyber Repair Plant! This Card can only be Activated if I have a Cyber Dragon in my Graveyard." Hayato inserted a Hand Card into his Spell & Trap Zone. "I can choose to Activate one of Cyber Repair Plant's two Effects, but with three or more Cyber Dragons in my Graveyard…"
"Children make choices, I want it all!"
(In Yu-Gi-Oh's early stages, Ritual Summon had the most opportunity to shine. In subsequent series, only the newly introduced summoning method would be used.)
(Drytron: )
(The first generation of duelists featured Yugi vs. Jaden as a symbolic clash, with the ultimate battles showcasing the "Traitor Dragon" (representing Tribute Summon) and Neos (representing Fusion Summon).)
(When I saw Black Luster Soldier sitting in a chair, weeping uncontrollably, I thought, if I could become a Ritual Monster, I would win everything.)
(Now, the legacy is right before my eyes. I must consider if this is my only chance in this life.)
(I believe Ritual Summon was able to secure a place in the DM era, and Black Luster Soldier played a crucial role.)
(To uphold the glory of Ritual, we are duty-bound!)
(end of chapter)
"I activate both effects of (Cyber Repair Plant). From my Graveyard, I return one LIGHT Attribute Machine-Type Monster to my Deck, then I add one LIGHT Attribute Machine-Type Monster from my Deck to my Hand."
Hayato retrieved the card that popped out of his Graveyard and returned it to his Deck, then drew the searched card. "(Cyber Dragon Nova) returns to the Deck. The card I searched is this one, (Cyber Dragon Core), and I haven't performed a Normal Summon this Turn yet."
"I Normal Summon (Cyber Dragon Core) in Defense Position, then activate its effect. When it is successfully Summoned, I can add one 'Cyber' or 'Cybernetic' Spell or Trap Card from my Deck to my Hand."
(Cyber Dragon Core) [Level 2/LIGHT]
[Machine-Type/Effect]
[ATK 400/DEF 1500]
Although it's only Level 2, (Cyber Dragon Core) is, after all, a "Core" monster. It's perfectly normal for its ATK and DEF to be somewhat weaker than a fully armed (Cyber Dragon), especially since it doesn't rely on its stats, but rather on the Effect it activates upon Summon.
Hayato drew the card he searched with (Cyber Dragon Core), then Set it in his Back Row. Holding the last card in his Hand, he said to Mr. Sheppard, "What an intense Duel, Mr. Sheppard. Let's replenish our Hands, shall we?"
Ignoring Mr. Sheppard's retort, "It's only the first Turn, isn't it?", Hayato activated the last card in his Hand. "I activate the (Spell Card) (Bounty of Cards). Due to this card's effect, both players replenish their Hands to six cards."
As he spoke, Hayato, who had an empty Hand, directly drew six cards, while Mr. Sheppard, who still had five cards in his Hand, could only draw one.
Upon seeing the drawn cards, Hayato raised an eyebrow, a detail that Mr. Sheppard, who was waiting for Hayato's next move, noticed.
"Did you draw something good?"
"Ah, indeed, quite useful cards." Hayato nodded, activating a card from his Hand. "I activate the (Spell Card) (Time Capsule). This card allows me to banish one card from my Deck face-down."
"Then, during my second Standby Phase after activation, (Time Capsule) will be destroyed, and I will add the face-down banished card to my Hand."
The (Time Capsule), shaped like an Egyptian (Pharaoh)'s (Sarcophagus), appeared on Hayato's Field. Hayato was seen searching a card from his Deck and placing it into the (Time Capsule), but because it was face-down, Mr. Sheppard didn't know what card Hayato had put inside.
Subsequently, the (Sarcophagus) closed and slowly sank into the ground.
Holding five cards in his Hand, Hayato drew two of them and Set them in his Back Row, declaring, "I'll Set two more cards. My Turn ends here."
"Begin your Turn, Mr. Sheppard."
[Hayato: 4000 LP, Hand 3]
[(Cyber End Dragon)] [ATK 4000]
[(Cyber Dragon Core)] [DEF 1500]
[3 Set Cards]
"On the first Turn, you Summoned (Cyber End Dragon) and also set your defenses, while still having three cards in your Hand. As formidable as ever, Hayato." Mr. Sheppard glanced at the six cards in his Hand, his finger resting on his Deck. "However, you'll need to be a bit careful from now on."
"The dangers of the 'Cyberdark Style' are not something an ordinary Duelist can endure."
"My Turn, Draw!"
As Mr. Sheppard made the motion to draw a card from his Deck, Hayato was quite surprised to find that electricity was arcing between the drawn card and the Duel Disk!
"Ugh!" The electric shock sensation from his fingertips made Mr. Sheppard frown involuntarily. Although he knew beforehand about the dangerous nature of the 'Cyberdark Style', he hadn't expected that even drawing a card would put a burden on his body.
But only such a Deck, almost "life-draining" in its nature, possessed the ultimate legacy of the 'Cyber Style'.
"I activate the card I drew this Turn, the Continuous Spell Card (Cyberdark World)!"
As Mr. Sheppard inserted the card into his Duel Disk's Spell & Trap Zone, crimson-purple electrical currents began to spread out from beneath his feet, coursing with green lines like warping data, constructing intricate patterns one after another in mid-air.
Although it was only a Continuous Spell Card, the presence of (Cyberdark World) after its activation was almost equivalent to a Field Spell Card.
"As an effect that can be applied when (Cyberdark World) is activated, I can add one 'Cyberdark' Monster, whose card with the same name is not in my Graveyard, from my Deck to my Hand. Since there are no cards in my Graveyard, I will directly add (Cyberdark Claw) from my Deck to my Hand."
After searching a card, Mr. Sheppard revealed the (Cyberdark Claw) he had just added to his Hand. "Then, I activate the effect of (Cyberdark Claw) in my Hand. I Discard it from my Hand, then add one 'Cyberdark' Spell or Trap Card from my Deck to my Hand."
"Next, I'll activate (Cybernetic Horizon), which was added to my Hand by the effect of (Cyberdark Claw). This card's name can be treated as a 'Cyberdark' card, so it can be searched by (Cyberdark Claw). During the Turn this (Cybernetic Horizon) is activated, I cannot Special Summon non-Machine-Type Monsters from my Extra Deck!"
Three cards were played in quick succession, but in reality, Mr. Sheppard only used the (Cyberdark World) that was activated at the very beginning. With that one card alone, Mr. Sheppard's "Cyberdark Style" began its "one-card combo starter."
The green lines around Mr. Sheppard converged into a complex concentric circle, forming a three-dimensional vortex. Mr. Sheppard held a card in his Hand. "In the 'Outer Cyber Style', there have always been philosophies such as 'growing together with Monsters' and 'striving with all one's might to achieve dazzling glory'. However, the 'Cyberdark Style' is different."
"As the 'Shadow', the 'Cyberdark Style' from beginning to end pursues not the process, but the result. For ultimate victory, no means are unexpected." Mr. Sheppard sighed deeply as he spoke,
"Because of conflicting philosophies, countless generations of 'Outer Cyber Style' Duelists, even after honing their skills to the limit, found it difficult to adapt to the power of the 'Cyberdark Style'. This is one of the reasons why the 'Cyberdark Style' was sealed away. It's also unknown if a future inheritor of the 'Cyber Style' will be able to inherit the power of the 'Cyberdark Style'."
"But now, in order to make you fully unleash the power of (Cyber Eltanin), Hayato, I am willing to resolve to sacrifice Monsters!"
After speaking, though his breathing was somewhat heavy, Mr. Sheppard still with determined eyes, sent the card into the vortex beside him. "The effect of (Cybernetic Horizon) is to Send one Dragon-Type and one Machine-Type 'Cyber' Monster with different Attributes from my Hand and Deck, respectively, to the Graveyard. Then, I add one 'Cyber' Monster from my Deck to my Hand, and Send one Machine-Type 'Cyber' Fusion Monster from my Deck to the Graveyard."
"I Send the DARK Attribute Machine-Type Monster (Cyberdark Edge) from my Hand and the LIGHT Attribute Machine-Type (Cyber Dragon) from my Deck to the Graveyard. From my Deck, I add (Cyberdark Dragon Bone) to my Hand, and Send (Cyber End Dragon) to the Graveyard!"
"I'm sorry, my old friend, (Cyber End Dragon). Rest for a while in the Graveyard."
A total of three cards were sent to Mr. Sheppard's Graveyard. With the power of these three cards, a dragon-like Monster somewhat similar to (Cyber Dragon) flew out of the vortex beside Mr. Sheppard and into his Hand.
Taking a deep breath, and looking at the six cards remaining in his Hand, Mr. Sheppard announced, "Now, don't blink, Hayato, because the true might of the 'Cyberdark Style' is only just about to begin."
"Using the effect of (Cyberdark World), during my Main Phase, I can Normal Summon one 'Cyberdark' Monster from my Hand for an additional Normal Summon. The Monster I will Summon is (Cyberdark Chimera)."
In the deep crimson-purple world, green lines outlined a slender dragon shape, and the form of (Cyberdark Chimera) emerged from within. In appearance, it seemed somewhat similar to (Cyber Dragon).
However, compared to the elegant (Cyber Dragon), which was full of sci-fi aesthetics, the devices beside (Cyberdark Chimera), like pitcher plant leaves equipped with sharp blades, made it appear terrifying and sinister.
(Cyberdark Chimera) [Level 4/DARK]
[Machine-Type/Effect]
[ATK 800/DEF 2100]
"Once per Turn, I Discard one Spell or Trap Card from my Hand to activate the effect of (Cyberdark Chimera)." Mr. Sheppard Sent a card to the Graveyard. "From my Deck, I will add one (Power Bond) to my Hand."
"(Power Bond)?" Hayato also frowned. As one of the two equally famous Machine-Type Attack Surge combo pieces alongside (Limiter Removal), Hayato was naturally familiar with (Power Bond); he even had one himself.
Its basic usage is the same as (Polymerization), but only Machine-Type Monsters can be Fusion Summoned by (Power Bond). The Summoned Monster's ATK will double, but the drawback and risk are that if that Fusion Monster is still on the Field at the End Phase, the player takes damage equal to that monster's Original ATK.
The most classic combination with (Power Bond) is the 4000 ATK (Cyber End Dragon) on Hayato's Field. Its piercing Battle Damage Effect combined with the ATK doubling has a synchronization rate as high as 1000%, but if you fail to defeat your opponent in one turn, it's you who gets one-turn killed.
And now, Mr. Sheppard has already obtained (Power Bond). Is he about to start an Attack Surge?
Hayato couldn't help but become vigilant.
"Using the effect of (Cyberdark Cannon) in my Hand, I Discard it from my Hand to add one 'Cyberdark' Monster from my Deck to my Hand. The card I add to my Hand is (Cyberdark Horn)."
After Mr. Sheppard once again Discarded a Hand Card to Search a card, he announced to Hayato, "With that, my preparations are now complete."
"I activate the (Spell Card) (Power Bond)! I will use a total of five 'Cyberdark' Monsters as Fusion Material: (Cyberdark Dragon Bone) and (Cyberdark Horn) from my Hand, (Cyberdark Chimera) from my Field, and (Cyberdark Cannon) and (Cyberdark Claw) from my Graveyard!"
"Nani?! Even Monsters in the Graveyard?!"
As (Power Bond) was activated, he watched as his chosen Fusion Materials were one by one swallowed by the (Polymerization) vortex. Although the Monster had not yet appeared on the Field, Mr. Sheppard could clearly feel his physical stamina rapidly being drained. If the duration lasted too long, what would be drained next would be his very Life Points.
However, he could still hold on.
Forcing himself to lift his head, Mr. Sheppard explained, "The effect of (Cyberdark Chimera) isn't merely to search for (Power Bond)."
"During the Turn I activated its first effect, my 'Cyber' Monsters that are not Dragon-Type or Machine-Type cannot be used as Fusion Material. Also, once per Fusion Summon, I can Banish Monsters from my Graveyard as Fusion Material."
One of Mr. Sheppard's hands pointed to the sky. There, the power of the five 'Cyberdark' Monsters converged, a terrifying power that even distorted the crimson-purple space of (Cyberdark World) beneath his feet.
"This is the 'Shadow' beneath the 'Starlight', the 'Darkness' concealed within the 'Cyber Style'; a Darkness that seals hell and annihilates brilliance!"
"Fusion Summon! (Cyberdarkness Dragon)!!"
"CyberDarkness-Dragon!!!"
The crimson-purple sky was torn apart. A composite of various killing weapons, an avatar of 'death' and 'war', (Cyberdarkness Dragon) arrogantly soared above Mr. Sheppard's field, spreading its twin wings of sharp blades that resembled skeletal remains!
(Cyberdarkness Dragon) [Level 10/DARK]
[Machine-Type/Fusion/Effect]
[ATK 2000/DEF 2000 → ATK 4000/DEF 2000]
(Cyberdarkness Dragon), Fusion Summoned from five 'Cyberdark' Monsters, reached a full 4000 ATK with the support of (Power Bond), already on par with (Cyber End Dragon) on Hayato's Field!
But Hayato knew this wasn't the limit of the "Cyberdark Style" yet, because (Cyberdarkness Dragon) hadn't used its most classic effect yet.
"The effect of (Cyberdark Chimera), which was Sent to the Graveyard as Fusion Material, is that when it is Sent to the Graveyard, I can Send one 'Cyberdark' Monster, whose card with the same name is not in my Graveyard, from my Deck to the Graveyard. Since I Banished (Cyberdark Cannon) for the previous Fusion Summon, I will Send the second (Cyberdark Cannon) from my Deck to the Graveyard."
"Then, Chaining to the effect of (Cyberdark Chimera), I activate the effect of (Cyberdarkness Dragon), which can only be activated when it is Special Summoned successfully. From my Graveyard, I Equip one Machine-Type or Dragon-Type Monster to (Cyberdarkness Dragon) as an Equip Card!"
Mr. Sheppard took out the (Cyber End Dragon) that had previously been Sent to the Graveyard by (Cybernetic Horizon), and announced loudly, "From my Graveyard, I Equip (Cyber End Dragon) to (Cyberdarkness Dragon)!"
"Then, (Cyberdarkness Dragon)'s ATK will increase by the Original ATK of (Cyber End Dragon)!"
"Fight for me, (Cyber End Dragon)!"
(Cyber End Dragon), which had previously been Sent to the Graveyard by (Cybernetic Horizon), appeared on Mr. Sheppard's Field, but not as an independent Monster. Instead, it was restrained by the talons beneath (Cyberdarkness Dragon) on Mr. Sheppard's Field, its power completely seized and controlled!
(Cyberdarkness Dragon) [ATK 4000 → 8000]
"ATK, 8000!"
Mr. Sheppard let out a loud shout, his gaze sharp as he looked at Hayato. "This attack embodies my complete understanding of the 'Cyberdark Style'! Here I come, Hayato!"
"Enter my Battle Phase!"
(end of chapter)
Chapter 479: If a Card Slips From Your Hand During a Shock, Your Dueling Career is Over. Just Cover It Up with a Louder Sound!
What does 8000 ATK mean?
In Hayato's previous life's OCG environment, the standard Life Point total was 8000. Thus, 8000 ATK meant that a single monster's Direct Attack was enough to secure victory.
And under DM's 4000 LP rule, 8000 ATK meant even more. Many Duelists would painstakingly Summon their Ace Monster onto their Field, then proudly anticipate seeing their Opponent helpless against their high-ATK Ace.
8000 ATK could not only instantly defeat most Ace Monsters; if that Ace Monster's ATK didn't exceed 4000, it could even wipe out the opposing Duelist entirely.
The only risk Sheppard incurred was taking Effect Damage equal to [Cyberdark End Dragon]'s original 2000 ATK if he couldn't finish off his opponent by the End Phase.
On Hayato's side, although Summoning [Cyber End Dragon] with 4000 ATK on the first Turn was quite impressive, it was still within [Cyberdark End Dragon]'s 8000 ATK one-shot range.
"[Cyberdark End Dragon], attack [Cyber End Dragon]!"
Sheppard waved his hand forward.
"Ultimate Dark Burst!"
An orange-red light of destruction flared up on the [Cyberdark Cannon] attached to [Cyberdark End Dragon]'s back. If this blow hit [Cyber End Dragon], Hayato's Life Points would be wiped out!
Because of this, Hayato, without hesitation, activated his Set Card from his Back Row: "Activate the Quick-Play Spell Card, [Mysterious Chinese Pot]! This card allows me to Tribute one of my Monsters, then I gain Life Points equal to that Monster's ATK or DEF."
"Rather than letting you Destroy [Cyber End Dragon] like this, I'd rather stir-fry it and eat it."
A large pot appeared below [Cyber End Dragon] as Hayato activated his Set Card. Sending it to the Graveyard caused [Cyberdark End Dragon]'s attack target to be lost, and Hayato's Life Points also recovered.
[Hayato: 4000 → 8000 LP]
"You chose to Send [Cyber End Dragon] to the Graveyard? In that case, [Cyberdark End Dragon], triggering battle replay, can choose an attack target once more," Sheppard said, his gaze falling upon another monster on Hayato's Field.
Hayato's lips curved into a smirk: "That's certainly true, but the other Monster on my Field is [Cyber Dragon Core] in Defense Position, and [Cyberdark End Dragon] doesn't have [Cyber End Dragon]'s piercing effect. No matter how high its ATK is, it cannot inflict Damage to me by attacking [Cyber Dragon Core]."
"Is that so? But what if I add this card?"
Sheppard said, playing a card from his Hand, "Although Normal Spell Cards cannot be Activated during the Battle Phase, I can Activate this Quick-Play Spell Card, [Enemy Controller], from my Hand!"
"Here I Activate its first Effect: I change the Battle Position of your [Cyber Dragon Core] on the Field, from Defense Position to Attack Position!"
[Cyber Dragon Core] [DEF1500 → ATK400]
Watching [Cyber Dragon Core] on Hayato's Field change to Attack Position, as if a game controller had appeared and been operated, Sheppard waved his hand and commanded, "Attack again, [Cyberdark End Dragon], Ultimate Dark Burst!"
The red-orange light appeared again. This time, the attack target changed to the much weaker [Cyber Dragon Core] compared to [Cyber End Dragon]. However, because of that previous [Mysterious Chinese Pot], Hayato's Life Points had recovered from 4000 to 8000. Even if he took this blow, he would still have 400 Life Points remaining.
If possible, Hayato naturally didn't want his Life Points to drop that low. After all, he preferred a full-LP victory more than a narrow escape with a Life Point Lock.
"You actually had that move up your sleeve! The [Mysterious Chinese Pot] just now didn't manage to bait out a negate, and I was still thinking of saving this card for later use." Hayato pressed the button on his Duel Disk to activate his Set Card. "But then again, if you don't use a card when you should, it loses its meaning."
"Activate the card Set earlier by [Cyber Dragon Core]'s Effect Search: the Continuous Trap Card, [Cybernetic Hidden Technology]! 'Each time an Opponent's Monster declares an Attack, I can Send one [Cyber Dragon] or a Fusion Monster that lists [Cyber Dragon] as a Fusion Material from my Field to the Graveyard to activate this effect; if I do, Destroy that attacking Monster!'"
"And if it exists on the Field or in the Graveyard, [Cyber Dragon Core] can be treated as [Cyber Dragon]!"
Saying this, Hayato snapped his fingers and waved his hand forward: "Sacrifice yourself for the greater good, [Cyber Dragon Core], Destroy [Cyberdark End Dragon]!"
[Cyber Dragon Core] transformed into a shooting star, rushing to crash into [Cyberdark End Dragon] on Sheppard's Field as if self-destructing before [Cyberdark End Dragon]'s Attack arrived, exploding itself at the moment of impact, vowing for mutual destruction with it.
But Hayato didn't hold much hope for this card's successful Activation. Although he hadn't really played a Cyberdark Deck before, Hayato was somewhat aware of [Cyberdark End Dragon]'s Boss Monster Effect.
And as expected, in response to Hayato's activated [Cybernetic Hidden Technology], Sheppard Activated [Cyberdark End Dragon]'s second Effect.
"When the Opponent Activates a Spell, Trap, or Monster Effect, [Cyberdark End Dragon]'s Effect chains!" Sheppard commanded, "I Send [Cyber End Dragon], which is treated as an Equip Card on my Field, to the Graveyard, to Negate that Activation and Destroy it!"
"Dark Shrink!"
The [Cyber End Dragon] that [Cyberdark End Dragon] had grasped was released, sent to the Graveyard as the target for [Cyber Dragon Core]'s self-destruction. The explosion engulfed and pulverized [Cyber End Dragon], and from the smoke, [Cyberdark End Dragon], having lost its Equip Card, flew out completely unharmed.
[Cyberdark End Dragon] [ATK8000 → 4000]
The explosion swallowed not only [Cyber End Dragon] and [Cyber Dragon Core], but also the [Cybernetic Hidden Technology] that Hayato had just activated was also Destroyed. This left Hayato's Back Row with only one Set Card of unknown purpose and [Time Capsule], his Monster Zone empty, yet he had to face [Cyberdark End Dragon], whose Attack had been repeatedly obstructed and was now finally coming through.
As the Boss Monster of Dark Cyber Style, [Cyberdark End Dragon] possessed an extremely practical Omni-negate. It could negate the activation of any Spell, Trap, or Monster Effect, and its Cost was sending an Equip Card on the Field to the Graveyard.
Hayato had previously wanted to use the [Mysterious Chinese Pot] to bait out this negate, but Sheppard endured, choosing not to activate it even as Hayato's Life Points soared to 8000. He only used this effect when [Cyberdark End Dragon] was about to be Destroyed.
However, [Cybernetic Hidden Technology] and [Cyber Dragon Core] weren't completely useless. At least [Cyberdark End Dragon] lost its only Equip Card, and while losing its negation ability, its ATK also reverted to 4000 points, as it was when it first appeared.
The orange-red beam pierced through Hayato's body. Hayato genuinely experienced what it felt like to Duel with "Dark Cyber Style," as if his body was instantly pierced by a high-voltage current. A momentary pain and numbness lingered and intertwined in his body for a long time, and his Life Points decreased accordingly.
[Hayato: 8000 → 4000 LP]
It felt like a specialized "Electric Shock Punishment" version of a Shadow Game, except the damage to the soul was lower compared to a Shadow Game, manifesting more as physical injury.
"Ugh—"
However, this muffled sound was not made by Hayato, but by Sheppard, who had commanded [Cyberdark End Dragon] to attack Hayato.
One could see his hand trembling slightly; he seemed to have almost failed to endure the pain brought by Dueling with "Dark Cyber Style."
Breathing heavily, Sheppard glanced at his Hand, then Set his last card onto his Back Row: "I Set the last card in my Hand. End Turn."
"Then, because [Cyberdark End Dragon] exists on my Field, I must, due to [Power Bond]'s Effect, take Effect Damage equal to its original ATK of 2000 points."
As soon as he finished speaking, Sheppard's Duel Disk suddenly released a large amount of lightning, which spread from Sheppard's arm throughout his entire body. Even though Sheppard had previously endured the burden on his body from using "Dark Cyber Style," under this powerful electric shock, he truly couldn't endure it any longer and cried out in pain:
"Hnnngh— Aaaargh!"
"Sheppard!" Hayato, seeing this, also recovered from the pain caused by the Attack and called out to Sheppard, "Are you alright!"
"I... I can still hold on." His hands firmly braced on his knees, barely allowing him to stand, Sheppard replied breathlessly to Hayato.
He could feel currents of electricity still flowing inside his body, not yet dissipated, paralyzing his muscles. Straightening his body, Sheppard raised a hand to wipe away the sweat about to drip from his forehead, his gaze meeting Hayato's.
The Power of Dark Cyber Style was a forbidden existence. What was consumed to maintain a Dark Cyber Style Duel was the Duelist's pure Will. Even saying "sacrificing life" made its Cost sound too light; not everyone could endure repeated electric shocks and continue Dueling while staying conscious.
Although Sheppard didn't say anything more, Hayato understood his thoughts from his eyes.
"I understand, Mr. Sheppard." Placing his finger on his Duel Disk, Hayato said firmly, "I won't let you down with this expectation and hope."
[Sheppard: 2000 LP, Hand 0]
[Cyberdark End Dragon] [ATK4000]
[Set Card]: [Cyberdark World]
"My Turn, Draw!"
"At this moment, I activate my Set Card in the Back Row." As Hayato drew a card, Sheppard activated his Back Row card: "Continuous Trap Card, [Cyberdark Invasion]."
The two sides in this Duel were not enemies or in conflict. In the hearts of both Hayato and Sheppard, there was no intention to harm the other. But to fulfill the long-cherished wish of passing down the Cyber Style for generations, the two of them now absolutely could not hold back against each other.
Only a full immersion, a fierce collision between Duelist Souls, would be enough to generate a spark that could shake Starlight.
"[Cyberdark Invasion]'s Effect is: 'Once per Turn, I can Target one Cyberdark Effect Monster on my Field and equip that monster with one Dragon-Type or Machine-Type Monster from either my or my Opponent's Graveyard as an Equip Card that gains 1000 ATK.'"
Sheppard pointed his hand towards Hayato. "What I will choose is your [Cyber End Dragon] in your Graveyard."
The secret art of Cyber Style—[Cyber End Dragon]'s figure appeared on the Field once more due to the card's Effect. But despite being a powerful Monster with 4000 ATK, [Cyber End Dragon]'s three appearances had not once maintained enough presence, being seized again by [Cyberdark End Dragon] to be an Equip Card.
However, because [Cyber End Dragon] was not equipped by [Cyberdark End Dragon]'s own Effect, it couldn't increase [Cyber End Dragon]'s ATK. Therefore, [Cyberdark End Dragon]'s ATK only increased by 1000 points. But, because it had an Equip Card again, it could once again activate its powerful ability to block any Effect Activation.
[Cyberdark End Dragon] ([Cyber End Dragon]) [ATK4000 → 5000]
"Although there's also an [Cyber End Dragon] in my Graveyard, if you, Hayato, were to Draw a card like [Monster Reborn], it's not impossible to Destroy [Cyberdark End Dragon]. So, to be safe, what I equipped is that [Cyber End Dragon] in your Graveyard."
Listening to Sheppard's words, Hayato also looked at the card he had drawn, revealing a helpless expression: "My monster was actually taken away! How annoying! Usually, I'm the one who 'NTRs' other people's monsters."
"In that case, I activate the Spell Card, [Change of Heart], from my Hand. This card allows me to gain Control of your [Cyberdark End Dragon] on the Field until the End Phase of the Turn."
"Then I chain [Cyberdark End Dragon]'s Effect: I Send [Cyber End Dragon], which is treated as an Equip Card, to the Graveyard, to Negate [Change of Heart]'s activation."
As expected, Hayato's activated [Change of Heart] was Negated by [Cyberdark End Dragon]. The half-angel, half-demon Priest Seto had just manifested before being immediately destroyed by [Cyberdark End Dragon]'s effect, forcibly terminating Hayato's "Mind Control" attempt.
"It was [Change of Heart]! If you don't Draw [Monster Reborn], you won't be able to defeat [Cyberdark End Dragon]," Sheppard said seriously. "And as long as [Cyberdark Invasion] exists, [Cyberdark End Dragon], with its effect that can be activated almost infinitely, is invincible. Your activated Key Card cannot take effect before it."
Hayato heard this but just smiled: "You shouldn't carelessly add the 'invincible' Buff, Mr. Sheppard. And when did you get the misconception that '[Change of Heart] is my Key Card this Turn?'"
"The card I will activate is this one, Spell Card, [Magical Stone Excavation]! I Send two cards from my Hand to the Graveyard, then Add one Spell Card from my Graveyard to my Hand!"
After activating [Change of Heart] and having it Negated, Hayato's Hand size was three cards. [Magical Stone Excavation] requires discarding two Hand cards, which means that after activating this card, Hayato's Hand would only have the one card that was recycled remaining.
Although Hayato didn't declare the card he was going to recycle, Sheppard had already guessed what that card actually was.
After all, Hayato was never willing to suffer a loss. Even exchanging three cards for one to recycle a card meant that the recycled card was more precious than those "three."
From the Graveyard, he added a green Spell Card to his Hand. Hayato then directly inserted it into his Spell & Trap Zone:
"The law of victory is already set. This Turn, let me show you how I defeat [Cyberdark End Dragon]."
"Second activation of the Spell Card, [Card of Safe Return]!"
Today I'll just write something random, let me teach everyone a new tongue twister:
A big strong man and an evil lady poked a Xīn, then packed all the watermelons in the restaurant.
A Baga came along, wanting the Xībā-packed watermelons.
The evil lady wouldn't give the Baga the Xībā-packed watermelons, but the Baga insisted on the Xībā-packed watermelons.
Don't know if Xībā cursed the Baga Xībā, or if the Baga cursed Xībā Baga.
The evil lady went back to find the big strong man, and the Baga directly cursed Xībā as Baga.
(end of chapter)
Chapter 480 Cyber End Dragon: Destroy me already. I'm tired.
"I activate (Card of Demise)! By this card's effect, I draw until I have six cards in my hand."
"My hand is also 0, so I can also draw six cards."
(Card of Demise) was limited to one per Deck to maintain the integrity of the Duel Monster meta. However, for every policy, there's a counter-strategy. Even with the drawback of letting your opponent draw for free, who wouldn't want to use such a powerful card that lets you draw six cards in one turn multiple times?
Chumley and Sheppard each drew six cards.
After checking his hand, Chumley glanced at Sheppard across from him. From Sheppard's expression, it seemed he had drawn some good cards, but Chumley's own draw wasn't bad either.
"First, I activate the effect of (Cyber Dragon Core) in my Graveyard! When only my opponent controls a monster on the field, I can Banish (Cyber Dragon Core) from my Graveyard and then Special Summon one (Cyber Dragon) monster from my Deck."
"The monster I will Summon is (Cyber Dragon Nachster), which was previously returned to my Deck by the effect of (Cyber Repair Plant). Then, by (Cyber Dragon Nachster)'s effect, I Special Summon a (Cyber Dragon) with 2100 ATK from my Graveyard."
(Cyber Dragon Nachster) [ATK 200]
(Cyber Dragon) [ATK 2100]
Given the truly terrifying presence and power of (Cyberdark End Dragon) currently on the field, even the usually cool (Cyber Dragon) seemed a little inferior. However, Chumley wasn't planning to defeat (Cyberdark End Dragon) with just these two monsters on his field.
"I haven't performed a Normal Summon this turn yet. I Tribute (Cyber Dragon Nachster) on my field to Tribute Summon another (Cyber Dragon) in Attack Position!"
(Cyber Dragon Nachster)'s form vanished, replaced by another (Cyber Dragon). Two (Cyber Dragon)s now coiled on Chumley's field, their eye monitors fixed intently on Sheppard's (Cyberdark End Dragon) across from them.
Although it was a Machine-Type, (Cyberdark End Dragon) gave off the impression of possessing true self-awareness. The direct gaze of the two (Cyber Dragon)s felt like a provocation, and the (Cyberdark Claw) wrapped around the (Cyberdark Dragon Bone) opened and closed menacingly, as if in threat.
The mere presence of (Cyberdark End Dragon) was a burden on Sheppard's body. Every movement it made released faint electrical currents, stimulating Sheppard's body, especially his heart. Enduring the discomfort, Sheppard speculated, "Two (Cyber Dragon)s, huh? What a shame. If you had three, you'd have the Fusion Material for (Cyber End Dragon)."
"I can't do anything if I don't draw them. Besides, I only have one (Cyber End Dragon) in my Deck anyway. Even if I gathered the Materials, I could only Fusion Summon a monster like (Cyber Twin Dragon)."
Furthermore, I don't even have (Polymerization) in my hand, nor do I have (Overload Fusion) or (Cyberload Fusion).
Even if he had (Polymerization) in hand, with Chumley's current resources, he could at most Summon (Cyber Twin Dragon) or (Chimeratech Rampage Dragon). While they possess multi-attack capabilities, they would be a joke in front of (Cyberdark End Dragon).
However, though he lacked (Polymerization), Chumley had drawn another card that could unify the power of his monsters.
"I activate the Spell Card (Power of Succession)! This card allows one monster on my field to inherit the ATK of another monster, increasing its ATK. However, as a cost, the monster that provides its power will be sent to the Graveyard."
Inserting (Power of Succession) into his Spell & Trap Zone, Chumley declared, "Sacrifice for the Greater Good, (Cyber Dragon)! And you, the other (Cyber Dragon), receive this final burst of power!"
One of the (Cyber Dragon)s on Chumley's field extended a cable that connected to the other (Cyber Dragon). The former's energy flowed entirely into the latter through transparent conduits, causing the receiving (Cyber Dragon) to crackle with electricity.
(Cyber Dragon) [ATK 2100 → 4200]
After absorbing its comrade's power, the (Cyber Dragon)'s ATK doubled as if it had used (Limiter Removal), even surpassing (Cyberdark End Dragon)'s ATK!
However, as the provider of power, the (Cyber Dragon)'s eye monitors instantly dimmed after completely transferring its energy. It fell like scrap metal, turning to dust and entering the Graveyard.
After watching the (Cyber Dragon) enter the Graveyard, Chumley's gaze fell upon (Cyberdark End Dragon). "With this, I have successfully surpassed you. Now, enter my Battle Phase!"
"(Cyber Dragon), attack (Cyberdark End Dragon)!"
"Destruction Beam!"
The (Cyber Dragon), empowered by (Power of Succession), opened its mouth, and a beam of azure laser burst forth, striking at (Cyberdark End Dragon). Naturally, (Cyberdark End Dragon) wouldn't simply wait to be destroyed. Even without Sheppard's command, it spontaneously fired a thick light cannon as a counterattack.
The two attacks collided, generating a heatwave that threatened to incinerate the crimson-purple (Cyberdark World) beneath Chumley and Sheppard's feet. Both Chumley and Sheppard could barely keep their eyes open due to the intense heat.
Although (Cyberdark End Dragon) possessed a significant advantage in its base abilities, the immense effect of (Power of Succession) allowed (Cyber Dragon) to now surpass (Cyberdark End Dragon). Just like before, (Power of Succession) once again helped Chumley overcome the stronger opponent with the weaker.
After a brief stalemate, (Cyber Dragon)'s attack, officially known as Evolution Light Blast but renamed "Destruction Beam" due to Chumley's preference, decisively crushed (Cyberdark End Dragon)'s counterattack and slammed directly into its body.
"Boom!"
The (Cyber Dragon)'s strike, by sheer coincidence, hit precisely at a connecting point in (Cyberdark End Dragon)'s body. After being struck by the powerful attack, it was instantly detonated on the spot. In a towering inferno, (Cyberdark End Dragon) shattered into fragments.
"Ugh!" Sheppard grunted from the Battle Damage. Yet, even as he felt the impact, he also felt a slight sense of relief, likely because (Cyberdark End Dragon) had left the field.
[Sheppard: 2000 → 1800 LP]
"I Set three cards. My Turn ends here."
After destroying (Cyberdark End Dragon), Chumley noticed Sheppard's complexion seemed to improve slightly and felt a sense of relief. However, he didn't relax despite defeating a powerful foe.
The essence of this Duel was a mutual stimulation between Chumley and Sheppard. Chumley needed to provoke Sheppard into unleashing the most extreme state of the Dark Cyber Style, and then Sheppard would create pressure and despair for Chumley. To push the Dark Cyber Style to its limits, Sheppard needed to achieve a state of "breaking before building."
(Cyberdark End Dragon) was powerful, but only after its defeat could the greatest power of the Dark Cyber Style be unleashed. And now, Chumley could already feel the impending sense of threat.
[Chumley: 4000 LP, Hand 1]
(Cyber Dragon) [ATK 4200 → 2100]
(Time Capsule) [Set Card] x 4
"Phew~ That was amazing, Chumley." Sheppard, holding the six cards in his hand, adjusted his state with a deep breath, while also commending Chumley. "You actually managed to destroy (Cyberdark End Dragon)."
"From the day I took over the 'Cyber Style' Master's duties from my teacher, I actually tried using the Dark Cyber Style. But even I could only go as far as (Cyberdark End Dragon); I couldn't fully control its entire power."
The Former Master, standing nearby, heard Sheppard's words and wore a rather surprised expression. "Hey, Sheppard! I didn't know anything about this! You actually did something so dangerous behind my back!?"
"After all, humans are curious, and I'm no different, Master." Sheppard offered an apologetic smile. "And if it were anyone else hearing words like, 'While your talent is outstanding, you're still far from being able to use that forbidden Deck,' they would surely develop a rebellious streak, wouldn't they?"
"Of course, in the end, just as you said, Master, I couldn't fully control the power of the Dark Cyber Style. I retreated before I could witness its deepest power."
Pausing for a moment, Sheppard placed his finger on his Deck, a smile gracing his face as he looked at Chumley. "Thanks to you, Chumley, under your pressure, I've clearly felt the restraints I thought would last forever shatter. That darkness is now opening up to me."
"Then be careful, Chumley. I'm going all out—no, I'm staking my very Life Points!"
"My Turn! Draw!"
Sheppard let out a powerful shout as he drew a card, full of aura. The wind stirred by his draw motion made the hem of his trench coat flutter upwards, as if he were about to soar into the sky at any moment.
Then, Sheppard played the card he had just drawn onto his Duel Disk. "I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card, (Trap Booster)!"
A cannon-like device appeared on Sheppard's field. As Sheppard sent a card from his hand to the Graveyard, the cannon's barrel lit up, as if fully charged and ready to fire.
"I Discard one card from my hand, then I can Activate one Trap Card from my hand without Setting it. I activate the Continuous Trap Card, (Cycle's Decree), from my hand!"
"Once per turn, I can declare one Type, and the Types of all monsters in both players' Graveyards become the declared Type." Sheppard played (Cycle's Decree) onto the field. "I declare Dragon-Type!"
As Sheppard activated (Cycle's Decree), dozens of lights flew out from the card and surged into both Graveyards, causing all monsters in both Sheppard's and Chumley's Graveyards to become Dragon-Type.
Generally, monsters that convert all monsters in both Graveyards to Dragon-Type are often a strategy found in (Dragon Destroyer Swordsman) Decks, aiming to maximize monster ATK. Or, to Fusion Summon monsters from the Graveyard using cards like (Dragon's Mirror).
But Sheppard's purpose in doing so was for only one monster.
"Because of (Cycle's Decree)'s effect, all monsters in my Graveyard are now Dragon-Type, including (Cyber End Dragon)." Sheppard said, playing a card. "I activate the Spell Card (Cyberdark Impact!)! I return (Cyberdark Dragon Bone), (Cyberdark Horn), and (Cyberdark Edge) from my Graveyard to my Deck!"
"Fusion Summon (Cyberdark Dragon)!"
The (Cyberdark Dragon Bone), (Cyberdark Horn), which were sent to the Graveyard as Fusion Material for (Cyberdark End Dragon) due to (Cyberdark Chimera)'s effect, and (Cyberdark Edge), which was sent to the Graveyard by (Cyberdark Horizon)'s effect before that, a total of three monsters, materialized from Sheppard's Graveyard and converged together.
Although it lacked the participation of (Cyberdark Cannon) and (Cyberdark Claw) compared to (Cyberdark End Dragon), even so, the (Cyberdark Dragon) that now made its descent onto Sheppard's field still possessed a compelling aura!
(Cyberdark Dragon) [Level 8/DARK Attribute]
[Machine-Type/Fusion/Effect]
[1000/1000]
A Level 8 Fusion monster with only 1000 ATK? But Chumley didn't underestimate (Cyberdark Dragon) because of this; he knew Sheppard hadn't fully unleashed its power yet, and something even more formidable was still to come.
"(Cyberdark Dragon) has an effect that increases its ATK based on the number of cards in my Graveyard. Each card increases its ATK by 100 points. Additionally, when (Cyberdark Dragon) is Special Summoned, it can target one Dragon-Type monster in either player's Graveyard and equip it, gaining ATK equal to the equipped monster's original ATK."
Sheppard revealed a card he had just retrieved from his Graveyard. "I choose (Cyber End Dragon), which has been turned into a Dragon-Type in my Graveyard. (Cyberdark Dragon) gains 4000 ATK from (Cyber End Dragon)'s original ATK. Furthermore, since I have a total of 10 cards in my Graveyard, (Cyberdark Dragon) gains another 1000 ATK!"
(Cyber End Dragon) wasn't sure how many times it had jumped from the Graveyard to the field. Unfazed and even wanting to laugh, it was once again equipped as an Equip Card beneath (Cyberdark Dragon), firmly locked in place by its sharp claws.
Destroy me already. I'm tired.
(Cyber End Dragon) felt that even if it were sent to the Graveyard again in the next second, it wouldn't matter; it wasn't the first time it had repeatedly bounced between the field and the Graveyard.
(Cyberdark Dragon) (equipped with (Cyber End Dragon)) [ATK 1000 → 5000 → 6000]
"6000 ATK, truly terrifying," Chumley exclaimed, looking at (Cyberdark Dragon) clutching (Cyber End Dragon). "So strong, too strong."
Before (Cyberdark Dragon) could revel in its increased power, it realized with a bewildered expression that, along with (Cyber End Dragon)'s power, countless black chains had appeared from nowhere, tightly coiling around its joints!
"What is that?!" Sheppard also noticed the chains binding (Cyberdark Dragon). Without a second thought, he looked at Chumley, the only one who could possibly be behind this. Sure enough, he saw a face-up (Dark Bind) on Chumley's backrow.
"The Continuous Trap Card (Dark Bind) reduces one opponent's monster's ATK by 700, and it cannot attack or change position." Chumley explained, pointing to the face-up Set Card. "After all, 6000 ATK is no joke. It wouldn't be good if it attacked my (Cyber Dragon), which only has 2100 ATK."
Chumley only had 4000 Life Points. If that monster landed a single punch, even with (Cyber Dragon) blocking, Chumley would be down to critical Life Points in an instant. Not to mention, Sheppard also had (Cyberdark Invasion), which could equip a (Cyberdark) monster with an Equip Card that grants 1000 ATK, once per turn.
(Cyberdark Dragon) [ATK 6000 → 5300]
Watching (Cyberdark Dragon)'s ATK decrease and seeing it immobilized by (Dark Bind)'s presence, Sheppard nevertheless said, "It's no use, Chumley. You can't stop that monster's descent."
"I will Release (Cyberdark Dragon), a (Cyberdark) Fusion monster, Level 10 or lower, equipped with (Cyber End Dragon), from my field…"
(end of chapter)