> Cards with power > by Corsair49 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Prologue: Lets Raise the Flag!! > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Celestia sighed the moment the doors to Day Court closed. Relaxing in her throne for a moment being with only her trusted guard and assistant. The day had been starting to grind her everlasting patience as she just had to deal with the same complaints from nobles, and it was only noon. Her drifting mind was brought back to attention as her assistant, a baby blue coated Unicorn with tant paper sand color mane. Her cutie mark was a simple notepad with several boxes and check marks. "I'm sorry Time Stamp, I didn't catch that. Would you mind repeating what you said?" Celestia smiled softly giving her a gentle look to which Time Stamp nodded returning the smile. Using her magic she held up her notepad. "Of course princess, As of right now we are ahead of schedule, probably because you only needed to find out if anyone had anything new to suggest and dealt with the same things as yesterday So now you have about two hours for lunch. Would you like to eat in the castle or would you like to go out?" Time Stamp smiled as she put the boards down looking at Celestia. Celestia thought for a moment and turned her head to look out towards the balcony. When she got there she looked around at Canterlot then turned her eyes towards Ponyville resting them on Twilight's Crystal Castle. Time Stamp who was by her side as she did this merely smiled before turning around and walking away. "I'll clear the rest of your schedule. You go enjoy the rest of the day with Princess Twilight, you do need a day off after all. Give her my Regards?" Celestia immediately snapped her head back towards Time Stamp, but she was already gone. Smiling softly her Celestia's horn glowed briefly before she disappeared from the balcony. *********Meanwhile In Ponyville********* Twilight was rushing around her machines looking over the results of tests and spike on the other side of the room monitoring several gauges as the center one was beginning to twitch violently to the right side seeing this. His eyes widened and he started to bite his claws. "Tw-Twilight another one is about to surge!" Twilight craned her head as panic was spread across her face. She flashed over to Spike to watch as the other gauges were starting to react. One of her other machines began to spit out a paper that at first had a single straight line but as time went on it became more and more jagged and growing without end till eventually the paper was coming out totally red and the machine short circuited. Twilight's Pupils shrank as fear took over her. Her horn glowing for a brief moment. Before she and spike disappeared. Reappearing in the map room, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie are all staring at the map with their ears against their head and eyes wide. Starlight Glimmer looked over to the alicorn and dragon before speaking. "Twilight? What's going on? The map just started to call everyone to... well..." she moved out of the way for Twilight and spike as they approached it slowly. Twilight's pupils shrunk to the size of pinpricks as it showed everyone who was present cutiemarks circling not one location but the entire circumference of the map. "Oh no..." was all Twilight was able to say. "Twi? Whats going to happen?" Rainbow dash asked. Since the map started calling for her she has been petrified at her seat not moving. Not having said anything before everyone looked at her. "As awesome as we are... we cant be everywhere at once, and I don't think anyone else has an Idea on whats going on." She looked at Twilight fear surrounding her. It was at that moment that Princess Celestia walked in making everyone's attention turn to her. "Good afternoon, my little ponies." She smiled endearingly to everyone but as they held their saddened expressions it faded. "What seems to be the-" She was cut off as Pinkie Pie Gasped jumping and maintaining herself in mid air as her tail seemed to vibrate. "Twitchy tail! It's Coming!!" When she landed she rushed passed Celestia, then came back. "Hi princes sorry for cutting you off but this something big!" She stood on her hind legs as she lifted her fore hooves in exaggeration. Suddenly all of the other save for Twilight, Starlight, and Celestia were running outside to see what the map was calling them for that would be falling from the sky. "Twilight? Starlight? whats going on?" Celestia looked confused as she walked to them looking at the map. Twilight began to cry silently. Starlight slowly hugged twilight before looking at Celestia. "It started the last time all of us, not including you your highness, hung out. Using out combined Lab results and magic we were looking for fun activities we could do together. Applejack had stated something that would be fair and wouldn't have many ways to cheat. Rainbow wanted something that would look cool. Pinkie didn't care as long as it was fun and could have lots of tricks. Fluttershy wanted there to be some cute or animals, Twilight and I wanted to add magic and spells to the mix. Spike wanted to be able to do something rather just make other things do things. Rarity didn't mind as long as she could look fabulous while doing it. So while looking we found this dimension where people were playing card games but they were apart of it as well. It had everything everyone asked for. What we didn't realize was that card game was more than just a card game but a gate way for other worlds to come to ours. So when we tried to recreate it.... well our spell fluctuated in such a way we couldn't control it. All we could do at that point was watch as it spread all across Equestria. We thought it failed but it wasn't until today that we got several readings of confirmed connections to each different world. We tried using the elements of harmony but that was when the map activated." Celestia's features went from one of concern to fear and solemn acceptance. "The elements accelerated the process... and .... well hear we are. Its all my fault." Twilight choked out as she cried more Celestia walked forward a bit more and wrapped her wings around Twilight and Starlight. "If we cannot stop it... then let us atleast try to defend our ponies from what may come. Pinkie said it was going to fall right? Let us prepare then." With that twilight nodded wiping her eyes. "It''ll be ok Twilight." Together they got up and walked out of Twilight's home to wait at the steps with everyone else looking at the mid day sky. They all were just sitting, all except for Pinkie who was vibrating like a jack hammer from her tail twitching. First it was a minute. Then two, and three, any sorrow and concerns of what they had unleashed was slowly changed into sheer annoyance and rage until Pinkie got up and screamed into the sky. "Hurry up and show yourselves so we can probably be friends and do really fun and cool stuff things together because you are most likely not going to hurt us, except for some really really mean guys who Spike and a friend will probably beat because this author is PREDICTABLE!!!!" Pinkie was panting when she finished her tirade and found her tail stopped twitching. Celestia only blinked before a new voice was heard. "Well she's definitely fun, but I wonder how much magic you guys know to have linked our worlds together?" Everyone turned to look at Purple bipedal monster with blue jeans rolled up at the ankles a pair of spiked sandals, a chain necklace and a Yellow Jacket with a hood that seemed to be covering spikes on both of his shoulders and biceps and horns. "Hmmm it's kinda cool though you're all ponies, I dig." He smiled showing his fangs. Rarity shrieked then fainted as everyone else stared him. "Dang, I know I'm a Demon Lord but still... I wasn't trying to be scary. I mean I can be if you want me to but I don't think that will be too good an Idea since I'm supposed to be the representative to Magic World an all." Celestia stood and approached him. "Representative? Magic World? I'm sorry but could explain please, and who are you and do you mean harm to my little ponies?" Celestia's Voice was serious as she looked up to the Purple Demon. who put up his hands defensively. "Hey hey, its ok, we come in piece, or pieces if your into that." As he said that he split into versions of himself one with a red jacked one with a blue jacket and the last one with the same Yellow. Before the other two disappeared, "But yes. My name is the Dancing Demon Lord, Asmodai. I know this may be cliched an all but How about you take me to your ruler?" He smiled as he bent over to look at Celestia. "And, if I may ask what would the purpose of desiring to meet our rulers?" Celestia was eyeing the demon careful who gave a slight sigh as he closed his eyes and rubbed the back of his head. "Well to be perfectly honest its so I can take over this world." His eyes held a dark glint as he gave a wicked grin. Celestia was just about to start casting a spell before Asmodai began laughing. "Oh man I couldn't keep a straight face long enough hahahah ....whew. No I'm here to assist in setting up negotiations between our worlds so we can have fun together and so some of the Monsters in Magic World can become Buddy's with some of the ponies here." He smiled greatly as he continued, "Afterall what could be more than a BuddyFight?" > Draw > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hours Later Inside Twilight's Map Room Somehow the entire map room slowly began to be filled with all kinds of creatures from Dragons to demons, to Some kind of Cerberus looking thing. To a strange Bipedal and mostly hairless creature wielding a sword and dressed with regalia. To some kind of machine like Ninja, another bipedal creature dressed in spandex that had red and blue lines a big A in the center of a his belt buckle and some kind of helmet and shoulder plates that covered his face. Spike, after making sure everyone had refreshments was talking with the dragons and having good laughs about everything. Finally Celestia, Luna, Thorax, Cadence and Shining Armor, Ember, an ambassador from Buffalo tribes, Yaks and Griffons, and Princess Twilight had Entered Upon Doing so everyone Including the Elements of Harmony, Spike, Trixie, and Starlight Glimmer gathered around the table. The Diplomats from the other worlds on one side and the home world sides all together on the other. For a while Silence had ensued and tensions began to rise. Before some music started playing from a boombox. A moment Later Asmodai was dancing on the table. "Yo, Yo, Yo, Yo." Soon the rest of the Diplomats all began to laugh as Asmodai stopped dancing giving his signature pose. "Sorry about that guys, just wanted to break the tension. For those of you who havent met me yet, my Name is Demon Lord, Asmodai, I come here as a Representative from my home world Magic World as we call it. To address the elephant in the room, what myself and the other diplomats here are here for is simple. We at magic world had received some a kind of magical wave from a spell that basically screamed ' Come over here and lets play' So with the help of the best people from Magic World and the rest my group here we opened a way to come here. Sorry if we messed anything up on the way but you see we all love to make new friends. And more Importantly we love to BuddyFight. So we thought, 'Well they want to play so lets go have some fun and make new friends.' So how about we start of by going round the table and saying who we are and what we represent." Asmodai took an exaggerated breath to show how winded he was of talking. "As we are the guests here in this land allow us to introduce ourselves first." a dragon with four arms winged with feathers of Light and two muscular arms that were folded across his chest with a glowing ring behind his crimson body stepped forward. "I am Martial Arts Dragon Emperor, Duel Siegar. I am the Chosen Representative for Ancient World. We represent Power in its Rawest Form." He stopped as he saw the purple winged Unicorn Raise its hoof. "Er... yes? What is it?" "I'm Sorry, First let me introduce myself. I am Twilight Sparkle Princess of Friendship and Harmony... but What does that Card game have to do with you guys? And can you explain what a Buddy Fight is for those that don't know." Asmodai Smiled as Twilight asked the questions. "Say... I have an Idea Why should we explain a buddy fight when we can show you a buddy fight? Can we have 2 volunteers?" Asmodai asked with with a flare. "Actually to help promote good tidings between our groups how about we have 1 volunteer from both sides?" He quickly corrected. Luna looked at Celestia who nodded in turn and smiled. "I shall Represent The Land of Equestria if there is no Objections from anyone." Luna declared the rest of the diplomats merely murmured for a moment for nodding in acceptance as the title 'princess of games' and 'queen of the console' were passed around. "Great then I shall represent our side. And Introductions are in order of course. My name is Miserea, I'm from Dungeon world. But my friends call me Kiri" A creature that only had hair on his head wearing clothes to cover his entire body from the shoulders down. Looking at him one would think he looks young, until they peered into his cold lilac eyes which held years of pain and acceptance along with innocence in their Icy gaze yet he had smile that could melt the coldest of hearts. "Whoa Kiri... I'm Surprised. Are you sure you want to? I mean.... It's been a long time since..." every buddy monster looked down at once almost to appear as if they were honoring a memory of someone with a moment of silence and respect. Asmodai went and kneeled down so his eye sight was level with Kiri's as he put his hand on Kiri's Shoulder, "You don't need to do this if you don't want to." Kiri smiled and patted Asmodai's shoulder. "I'm sure... They would've wanted it this way, and i know we all miss them. but we have new friends we can make now. I know they will be great fighters and honestly... I want to experience that feeling again... I'll always miss Gao and Testuya and Zanya, along with everyone else but that's ok. They would want me to make new friends. So that's what I intend to do because nothing is more fun than a BuddyFight." With that he smiled and there was a choir of awes from most of the females in the room which drew a deep blush from him as a card moved from the deck in Kiri's holster on his side to glow and then become a monster with a masked pale face and ice like blades for arms and blue wings. "Well hopefully we can chill together once we've Broken the Ice don't you think?" The new figure stated before he and Pinkie began to laugh at the terrible puns. "Well I don't know about chilling, but making friends really takes the Cake!" Pinkie laughed as she pulled out a large Ice Cream cake. This made new one move closer. "Well you wanna know whats better than Ice cream cake?" He asked Pinkie. "Oh! I know I know! A Frosty Fiend!" She screamed with delight as she threw a piece of the cake at him. For a moment silence ensued before Asmodai, the declared Fiend, and Pinkie all laughed. "Can I be the one to fight you? I love making new friends. And I have an Idea for what world I want to use to fight with." "A Frosty Fiend oh man you sure know how to put a guy on Ice, By the way, My name is Ice Blade Joker, Pleasure to meet all of you." he takes his spot by Kiri's side. Asmodai however turns to face the pink pony. "So you have a world and a buddy in mind do you?" he asks with the devilishly handsome look he puts on as hes rewarded with a vigorous nod from her he smiles. "Well then little miss lay it on us, what world and who is it you want to help with your first fight." "Well dungeon world to start, and Bladewing phoenix? If you don't mind Kiri... oh and I'm Pinkie Pie." She smiled meekly as if stepping on eggshells. Kiri opened his mouth to say something as the realization struck his eyes drifted down as he closed his mouth slowly followed by his eyes. Then he shook his head and patted his cheeks before walking over to her and smiling at her sticking his hand out towards her. "I don't mind one bit Pinkie. In fact I look forward to becoming friends with you. Shall we head outside? I'll Summon BladeWing there and you can have him help you make the deck. Twilight, Asmodai, would you two be willing to help us set the stage for the fight? And a viewing area to provide commentary so our new friends will understand whats going on?" The demon and Purple princess looked at each other and nodded. Pinkie eagerly grabbed his hand and pulled him close into a hug he hugged her back. Shortly afterwards both groups Met Outside at some open fields behind the Crystal Castle Where Asmodai and Twilight where setting up Bleachers and the proper fields as a Metal feathered bird seemed to have descended from the sky to land In Front of Pinkie. Upon Closer inspection The giant birds wings were Literally Blades and then the bird became enveloped in a bright light before turning into a glowing card that then had a multitude of other cards circle around it and create a deck that then fell into Pinkie's hoof. Twilight smiled as she used her horn to increase the sound of her Voice and Asmodai had done a costume change into his self proclaimed 'Legendary Cram session Teacher form.' "Welcome, Leaders of Equestria and Representatives of the Various Worlds. To the first Buddy Fight Held in Equestrian history. My Name is Twilight Sparkle, Princess of Friendship." "And I am Fervernt Demon Lord Teacher, Asmodai. We are here to help explain the basics of what Buddy Fight to those who have never seen one before." Asmodai was clad in a white lab coat that was equipped with a hood that even distinctly covered the horns on his head as he wore yellow suit ties that hung from each horn, his tail, and his neck adorned with a demon skull insignia as he was shirtless showing his incredibly well built figure. "Now before we get into the buddyfight itself there are somethings we need to explain first is that decks are made of no less than 50 cards excluding the flag card and buddy card, and then there can be no more than 4 copies of the same card in any unless a specific ability states it." He finished up before twilight made a 2 dimensional top down representation of the field. "The field consists of a total of 8 zones. The first 3 zones are the monster zones for Left, Center and Right." the spots highlighted as she spoke so the audience could understand which areas she was talking about. "These are where you can call your monsters, be careful though, you can only have up to one monster on one zone at any given time. To the left of those 3 is the Gauge." "The gauge is an area where a fighter puts cards to be used for the cost of calling a monster, equiping a weapon, casting a spell, or unleashing an impact." Asmodai added. "Next up is the Flag Zone, this is where you declare what world you are fighting for or with, and where you equip items, Normally you can only equip one weapon at a time but certain weapons will let you equip 2 or more." Twilight continued. "To the right of that is your buddy monster zone thats where you show off what monster is your buddy, and is the only one you can have 5 cards for, so long as there is only 4 in the deck. and on the left of the flag is the set area, where you place spells or other things that can be used continuously but aren't monsters." Asmodai explained. "And that leaves us with the deck and drop zone. The drop zone is where you put cards that have been destroyed or their abilities have been completed. Becareful though some decks excel in using the drop zone as an extra hand or to fulfill dangerous requirements for powerful abilities." Twilight continued. "Now that the field is done, Lets move on to the basic card design." Twilight nodded and the visual changed to an image of Asmodai's Card. "Oh would someone get some water because that handsome demon is on fire if i say so my self, Now there are a total of 7 key spots to note on any card. the first 4 are the some of the most important things. first is Size in the top left corner. Now you're probably wondering what does size have to do with anything. well those platforms for the monster zone, unfortunately can only support so much weight, so they have a size limit of 3, meaning they can have 3 size one monsters, 1 size one and size 2 or one size 3 monster, there are also size 0 monsters which can go with any combination, If at any point you exceed the size limit, then you must get rid of another one of your monsters to go back to 3 or less." "After that there is in descending order, on the left side, Defense written in blue text, critical in white, and power in red. Power signify how strong the attack is, as defense is how well that card can stand against something. Say for this instance Asmodai tried to attack a monster with higher defense than his power, the attack would not work. But if his power is higher, the monster defending would be destroyed. Critical determines how much damage is dealt to the fighter, This is how you can primarily win the game, once a players life reaches 0 its game over for them, each player starts with 10 life as to keep things fair." Twilight went on to continue. "Next up is the Name, world and attribute. This where you can see what world and type of card or monster is from. For instance, I am from Magic world and a 72 Pillars card. While Ice Blade Joker is a Legend world monster with the Asgard and Water Attributes. These are usually key things to note as some card require specific attributes for some really powerful combos." "And finally is the Ability. Some cards have skills unique to them and that is written in this area." Twilight explained. "For me this is where you would read about my skill, "Dangerous-Back-Drop" This skill states when I enter field if you want you can ditch a card from your hand sending it to the drop and I can destroy one monster of your choice on your opponents field Without having to attack. With that Everything has been covered." Asmodai started taking a bow. "No its not Asmodai, You forgot to explain about the 'Buddy Gift'." Twilight said with a little laugh. Asmodai Gasped and jumped up. "That's right, a Buddy Gift is a unique event that occurs once for both players through out the fight, it happens only on the first time your Buddy Monster enters the field, Whats the gift? Well my dear audience you as the player gain one life point free of charge just for calling your friend to enter the fray with you, At this moment only monsters can be Buddy monsters, However there are a few Weapons which can be your buddy as well." Asmodai stated. "And with everything covered now we are ready to start the fight. Fighters, Please take your positions." Twilight Proclaimed Kiri and Pinkie both walked to their positions. Pinkie put her deck into a floating upside down pyramid as Kiri's deck shone into light. "Like frozen water, my power makes me tough to break. Luminize! Unstoppable Ice Blizzard!" Kiri chanted the deck then becoming incased in what looked like Snowflake designed deck case. "A kaleidoscope of excitement and adventure! Luminize! Kaleido Labryinth!" Pinkie Cheered "Ready? Buddy... Fight!" Twilight Cheered. The fight was was chanted with the half of the stands that were the visiting monsters and the elements of harmony. "One last thing Before we begin, Since this is the first time I feel we should have Kiri Go first to help explain the turn order of events for the game. Any Problems with that Kiri?" Asmodai looked over at his friend. "No problems here Asmodai, now when we begin the top 2 cards of our decks go to the gauge and then we each draw 6 cards for our starting hand. Since I'm going first, unfortunately I don't the start phase draw. However I can Charge and a draw so I will." While kiri was talking 2 large glowing card appeared to the left of both players with 6 smaller cards of light infront of them. Kiri took one of the cards in his hand and sent it to the gauge where it grew in size a smaller card of light then fell from the snowflake to join the rest of his hand. "Next I pay One Gauge and Equip Rune Staff." The first large glowing card became a tiny star that flew into the card kiri was holding up which then shone and changed to become a blue staff with snowflake design at the tip of it. "Now I activate Rune Staff's Ability and Send the top card of my deck to the Gauge." A light spawned from the staff as another card appeared in the gauge. This drawing a lot looks of surprise from the Equestrian Home audience. "Next I cast the set spell Gleipnir." A small Bubble appeared above Kiri's head with the Gleipnir written on it. "Then I call Frost Wall, Nevel Vans to the center and Frost Giant, Hrimthurs! to the left!" Suddenly A Cloud of multi-colored vapor that took on different animal head shapes at random appeared in the center field in front of Kiri and a Giant Ice troll looking creature wielding a Sword of ice stood proud. "Now pinkie, While going first does prevent me drawing first, I do get to do something very rare but I can only do this once. Hrimthurs! Attack the Fighter!" Kiri Declared. The Giant Hefted its sword onto its shoulders giving a low rumbling growl as it walked over to the Pink Pony. Slowly it Raised its sword Celestia Luna and Cadance all gave looks of fear. But All of the held fast as they saw the Elements of Harmony Smiling, Spike on the edge of his seat eating some gems, and starlight looking relaxed. "Hidden Crossbow!" Pinkie Shouted as suddenly a panel behind the giant opened up and a cross bow peeked through before firing an arrow into the Giants back. It giving a grunt of pain before shattering then disappearing. "An excellent counter spell Provided by Pinkie. Honestly, I thought she would choke a bit right there. But thats the great part about this game! Anything can happen." Asmodai stated. "Pinkie is an odd one but she is surprisingly adept at making quick decisions for what should be the best outcome she thinks. Improv is one of her greatest feats, and when it comes to making friends, she doesn't pull her punches." Twilight added on, "For those of you in the audience who don't understand what just happened. There are certain spells and abilities that can be used on either player's turn during any moment, those abilities are called 'Counter' Abilities. And can be used to defend yourself or make offensive plays." "Aww shucks guys thanks, but the fights not over yet and I'll See this through to the end or my name isn't Pinkamena Diane Pie, and I'm pretty sure it is." Pinkie giggled. "The move Ends." An automated voice states. "Ooh! Ooh! My turn! Draw! Then, Charge and Draw!" Pinkie Cried happily. "Next I call to the center Dragonblade Wielding Sheila Vanna, to the right Gummy Slime, and to the left Fledgling Warrior, Ocker Glaser!" All at once a pink little jelly thing with wings appeared on the right, another bipedal being with red hair goggles and a sword to the left and in the center a larger female with a considerably large sword that seemed to be glowing. "Since I have a Dungeon enemy and an adventurer on my field Sheila Vanna Activates 2 of her abilities. The first is that she gains an additional 2 critical and she gains the ability penetrate! Meaning when she attacks and destroys your center monster, you will take damage equal to her critical." Pinkie giggled a bit as her smile widened. "Next I set Mission Card "Defeat Monsters!". You Ready Kiri?" Pinkie called out. Kiri Gripped his staff and pointed it at her with a smile on his face. "Come at me Pinkie, I wanna see how strong you are!" Kiri called back. > Charge and Draw > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "You Ready Kiri?" Pinkie called out. Kiri Gripped his staff and pointed it at her with a smile on his face. "Come at me Pinkie, I wanna see how strong you are!" Kiri called back. Pinkie smiled happily before she began her attacks. "Ok then Gummy Slime Take out his center Monster pretty please." The Pink winged blob gave a sound of approval as its eyes looked with happiness for a moment before becoming angry it jumping from platform to platform to ram into the the gaseous cloud. "Counter Call, Stallion of the Divine King, Sleipnir to the left." suddenly a mechanical horse head closely resembling a knight from a chess board rushed into the field when this happened the gaseous wall exploded outwards with great intensity as the slime collided with it causing nothing to happen. The Gummy slime bounced back to its original position with a sad look on its eyes. "Well that really put that attack on Ice." Joker began to laugh along side pinkie. " Kiri why are you giving her the Cold Shoulder?" Joker laughed out this made some of the members of the crowd either laugh or groan. Shining armor stood up confused and slightly angered. "Hold on a second, Didn't Kiri cheat just now? From what I understand you could only call monsters during the main phase of your turn. So how did he call that thing on Pinkie's attack?" He declared. Asmodai grinned as suddenly his uniform told golden. "Twilight Shall I explain to this one with one of my backdrop lectures? Or will you?" Asmodai asked politely. "I got this one. While yes under normal circumstances Shining, you can only call cards in the style you specified. However certain card abilities let you bypass it. Sleipnir is one such a card that has it as a counter ability, literally allowing you to call it at anytime to an open spot." Twilight explained. "And without a moments delay Kiri took advantage of it, Not only did he refill his board for the cost of one card, but he also essentially nullified Pinkie's attack with Frost wall, Neval vans ability. While there is another monster with the Asgard attribute on the field it cannot be destroyed by battle Regardless of the amount of power." Asmodai stated. "Before we allow our fighters to continue, is there any other questions?" Twilight asked the crowd was silent. "Alright then Pinkie you may continue your attack." "Okie Dokie Loki, Since attacks wont do anything, Lets make it up to gummy slime." She looked over at the depressed slime. "Its ok on the bright side you made him use a card in his hand. So dont worry ok?" The slime gave a soft sound of understanding. "Alright then, I cast! Hidden crossbow again, to destroy that pesky wall." the card disappeared as another panel opened up and a sudden thwip could be heard before the frozen wall of gas stopped moving and cracks spread throughout it from where an arrow had impacted it before it shattered like a mirror the arrow dropping to the stage beneath it. Kiri laughed smiling. "Now Sheila Vanna, Ocker Glaser, attack the fighter directly together!" the two lifted their blades before charging at kiri and jumping into the air before they came down on Kiri making an X cross across his body that faded back into his clothes him giving a grunt in pain despite not being hurt at all. Suddenly the green 10 above his head shattered into an lighter green 9 then a even lighter 8 to a yellow 7 and darker yellow 6 before disappearing. Kiri began to laugh even more. "That was a great attack but you will have to do better than that to beat me." Kiri Declared. "The Move ends" The voice declared. "Right then Draw, Then charge and Draw!" Kiri looked at his hand and smiled coldly. "Is it just me or are things about to get a whole lot colder here." Ice blade Joker said with a laugh. "I activate my rune staff's ability to give me another gauge." A light appeared from the deck and went to the gauge zone set for Kiri. There was now 5 cards floating in his gauge zone. "Now I Pay one gauge to activate Horn of Demise, Gjallarhorn Using this I add Great Spell, Fimbulwinter To my hand Then I cast it I put the top two cards of my deck into its soul." Kiri pauses as he looks over the cards in his hand again. "I'm sorry Pinkie but this will be the beginning of the end of It may have been short but I did enjoy fighting with you, I hope you and your buddy can get along great and I look forward to fighting you again." Kiri said his eyes held sadness while he wore a Solemn smile. Pinkie's eyes opened as she realized what was coming next. "Go ahead Kiri, Thank you for playing with me." She smiled back. "I callLoki The Ehrgeiz And activate his skill sending all the soul in my Fimbulwinter to the drop zone. With the soul gone Fimbulwinter lets me draw one card. Now I pay 3 gauge, witness the storm that brought forth the end of Valhalla and the destruction of Asgard. I CASTGreat Spell, Ragnarok!" In that instance a cold blizzard began to blow the clouds filling the sky as it got darker snow racing wind to strike the targets and all the monsters on the field slowly began to freeze over as did the cards in both players hands before shattering completely the spells as well that Kiri had set. "Come forth mighty beast of Destruction, Devour the World Demon Wolf, Fenrir!" Kiri Declared as a large metal plated Wolf crashed forward from the Frozen spell Gleipnir taking the center position of the field The ponies already terrified of the fact a blizzard had formed in the middle of the summer began to scream in terror as wolf howled, appearing like a Timber wolf made of Silver and Gold its eyes glowing red. "Now I pay 1 gauge and Buddy Call Ice Blade, Joker!" The last gauge that was in Kiri zone Floated over the frozen Buddy before the shell began to shake and crack. Then nothing. "Hey what are you all staring at?" Joker said from the bleachers drawing everyone's attention shifted straight to him with some ponies being startled. Joker snickered before moving to his spot on the left field. Kiri's health regained one point of health going back to 7. Kiri has no gauge No card in hand but 2 monsters on the field with a total critical of 8. Pinkie Has no monster an no cards in hand. "Fenrir Show her the strength of the Wolf of Legend!" Growling viciously the giant wolf charged at Pinkie slashing downwards with its claws. Leaving a grid like pattern of 4 shreded ribbons appearing across Pinkie's body as she laughed and and screamed at the same time. Her life point marker dropping violently until it was a Dark Red 4. "Ice Blade Joker, Attack the Fighter!" "You need to Chill Out, Pinkie." He said as he slasher once dropping the health to 3. "Because your on Thin ICE!" He said as he stabbed her before backing off back to his spot. Pinkies health Points where at a bright Crimson Red 2. Kiri's was at a yellow 7. "That marks the end of my turn." Kiri said "The move Ends." The Random Voice said. Celestia and Luna looked with concern at the giggling girl. "How is Pinkie to win?" Celestia said. "She can only draw 1 card and may have to sacrifice for a meager chance at a better card. Not to mention that Wolf has such High stats." "Sister, it is best to let the game continue and observe, this is history in the making so let us hope that thing fall into the favor of our friend." Luna said. "Well No time like the present I Draw!" Looking at the card she got she frowned slightly. "Charge and Draw." Pinkie Gasped and Smiled wide. "Kiri Looks like you have a chance to change how this game goes." This got Kiri's attention as he donned a look of confusion. "I Cast Dangerous Fuse!" At that moment two cards flew foward and grew in size one card flipped over to show it was a BladeWing Phoenix. It flipped back to reveal the back of the Card and the two cards began to spin and change positions. Until they couldn't discern which card was was which. "An excellent Save by Pinkie but this could make or Break the game Folks." Asmodai declared. "Right you are Asmodai, Lets Explain Dangerous fuse for the Spectators though. Dangerous Fuse is a Spell Card that requires interaction from the opponent and goes into why Dungeon World is such a curious world." Twilight explained "This card takes the Top two cards of your deck and has you reveal one mix up their positions really good and from there your opponent needs to choose which one is which." Asmodai added "If they guess the right card, Both cards go to the hand." Twilight Declared. "If they guess wrong however Both get Blown to the Gauge." Asmodai Finished. "So which card is BladeWing Phoenix Kiri?" Pinkie says holding her hooves out at the two options. Kiri watched the two cards before nodding to himself. "I Declare the Left card!" Kiri called out. At that moment the card turned and revealed Blade Wing Phoenix. Both cards then went into Pinkies hand. "NICE I'll be able to turn this game around now!" Pinkie Declared. "First I pay one Gauge and Buddy call to the left Blade Wing Phoenix!" The guage card disappeared as Blade Wing Phoenix took to the field in Majestic flight. A life point returned to pinkie Darkening the it to a normal Red 3 "You Shall know my wrath!" The phoenix Declared. "Next I pay 2 gauge and Equip Brave's Sword, Soma Sword!" A large Sword Appeared on pinkies back. "Oooh Shiny... Now... Blade Wing Phoenix Help put that Puppy in Time Out!" Pinkie said as she pulled the sword out holding it in her Hooves. "Right Away, Miss Pie!" Blade Wing picked up Pinkie by letting her hop on to his Back as the flew Blade Wing Phoenix Flew High above Fenrir Before starting to Dive Bomb it. "Know your place you Mangy Mongrel!" It declared as clawed slashed at the Wolf Multiple times leaving large red Grid marked pattern lines across its body as Pinkie went and hit it on its nose with the sword. "Bad Doggy!" Pinkie said as Fenrir Dissappeared having been destroyed. "Now Blade Wing! Ice that Joker!" She said having returned to her Position pointing her sword at Ice Blade Joker. "Right away! Have At the Ruffian!" Blade Wing Declared as he and Joker took to the skies. "Hey now Phoenix you need to Chill out! You know I was only Jokingggg Ahh!" Having Been clawed Mid sentenced Joker Was destroyed. Kiri Clapped smiling. "Nice use of the Double attack Pinkie!" Kiri said happily. "Double Attack is a skill that allows monsters to attack more than once a turn. Other variations can allow a monster or fighter to attack more than once as well. The highest attack we have seen so far comes from Ancient world with a whopping Five attacks in one turn!" Asmodai explained. "The move ends!" "well its my Turn! Draw and Charge and Draw Kiri Declared as he looked at the card in his before he nodded. "I end my Turn." "The Turn Ends." "My turn My Turn! Draw and Charge and Draw! OOOH this looks like it'll be fun! Phoenix Attack the Fighter." "Right away!" Blade Wing phoenix landed infront of Kiri and then proceeded to Peck him for 2 damage dropping him to 5 health. "One more time Phoenix!" Pinkie Declared as Phoenix pecked Kiri Again. dropping his health to 3. "And with that folks the Tables have turned and we are Approaching the end of the game Pinkie still has 1 attack left with 2 critical but Kiri has 1 card in his hand. Even if he takes this attack however he still lives by the Skin of his teeth. What is our Bubblegum girl going to do?" Asmodai acts in distress with excitement. "It all comes down to whether or not Pinkie Has an Impact in her hand." Twilight said. "And whether or not Kiri will stop it." Pinkie smiled as she stuck the sword into the stone. "Hey Kiri... Thank you for the game!" Pinkie said smiling. "Do you think they would've liked to meet me?" Kiri gave a satisfied and yet somehow sad smile. "Pinkie I know they would've loved to meet you, And I am happy to call you my friend... Lets play again some time ok?" Kiri said Happily. Pinkie smiled back nodding. "I'd Like that... Final Phase!" Pinkie Declared With determination in her eyes wiping away the tears. "I pay 3 gauge The Phoenix is Undying Flame of Hope that Wipes away the Cold. From its Ashes it Rises again and Again! I cast Phoenix Radiation!" In that moment Pinkie's sword lit with Flames as she threw it at Blade Wing Phoenix Who lit aflame when the sword made contact. The burning Bird flew towards the Sun and then spread its wings of fire and fury dashing through each monster zone before it Dive Bombed Kiri who smiled at it. The Life points when the explosion happened Dropped violently to 0. "Game Over! Winner Pinkamena Diane Pie." The announcer Declared Kiri was on his back laying in the grass as the field and damage all disappeared before he started Laughing. Pinkie went over and helped him up. As the two began to laugh together. Twilight and Asmodai landed and smiled. "For those of you who don't understand what happened. Pinkie had initiated a final phase where she then used an Impact card to deal damage and win the game without risking an attack that kiri could have blocked." Twilight explained "Yo Kiri what card was in your hand?" Asmodai asked as he walked over. "Isn't it obvious Asmodai? Holy Grail." Kiri Said. "I was thinking since Pinkie was new to the game I could use it on the last attack and survive the game. Unfortunately that wasn't the case. Well Played Pinkie." "So that's a buddy Fight!" Asmodai Explained. "Any Questions?" > Call > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Once the Buddyfight was completed each of the delegates once again sat down outside and introduced themselves and covered in great details all of the rules. They also explained the distribution of all the cards and the Buddy Rare. "Now before we end this I must inform you all of something." Captain Answer Began, "Question In the event that Rogue monster or buddy fighters using their gifts for their greed what should the response be?" "Captain Answer raises a good point." Purgatory Knigts Leader, Demios Sword Dragon stated calmly. "What will you do to ensure that your world will be safe from monsters and humans that will seek to destroy or Conquer it?" this made the Equestrian Delegates start to speak and question among themselves "I think I have an answer for that." a soft voice spoke. Ember hearing who it was Yelled out to everyone to quiet down that someone has an actual Idea. "We could follow in the follow in the foot steps of those who you knew and create the Buddy Police?" Spike said "Correct Answer!" Captain Answer shouted. "A select few from each of the nations should be made into an Organization of Law and Order Positioned around the world. These Few should have Just hearts, courage, and kindness, yet must be swift and fierce. They will also be responsible for capturing and detaining any illegal forces with the us." Suzaku stated calmly. "As such they would each need Buddy Monsters they are cohesive with. So tell us do you have an Idea of which of your kind will be willing to stand up and fight?" Celestia and Luna Glanced at each other before they nodded. "My sister and I have selected that for now our group shall be Both myself and her along with the Elements of Harmony should they choose to." Luna stated. "I know I will stand up for the Crystal Empire." Shining Armor stated. "For now Only the strongest in the Dragon lands should have that responsibility." Ember Declared. "I shall be Yaks Great Leader and Great Defender Yaks Best! Yaks Strongest!" Prince Rutherford Exclaimed. "I recommend my Daughter Little Strong Hooves to be the defender of our area." Chief Thunderhooves explained "It goes without saying that My brother Pharynx shall be the one to defend the rest of the Hive." Thorax Explained. "Since this if for defense I shall have my Guard master Be one of the candidates." Queen Nova Explained. "I agree it shall be the local Law enforcement that I will have defend Griffonstone." Stated Lord Gestal "Then it looks like its all settled Lets get this show on the road then. We will give you all 1 week to spread it to your peeps and then we will start to supply the cards and let things happen during that time frame everyone who was selected will start getting their buddy. And lets remember everyone lets have fun." Asmodai said happily. Within that week every being returned to their homes and told tales of what happened, Explaining the rules of the game and the arrivals of each beings buddy. Pinkie got on well Blade-wing Phoenix and they became buddies easily. Twilght Ended up with a Dragon wizard from magic world by the name of Qinus Axia. Fluttershy became quick friends with the fairies and animals of Legend world. Princess Celestia Became Buddies with the 2nd Generation of Captain Answer, while her sister Luna Became Buddies with Dark Hero Schwarz. Applejack went on to work with a Drum Bunker Dragon. Rarity became infatuated with the Knights in Shining Armor and Kings of legends in Legend world, taking the Immortal sword Durandal to her side. Rainbow Dash deciding upon Hero World took on the mantle of Caardian. Shining Armor ended up With Card Burn. Then in the following weeks all around the world Everyone was getting into Buddyfights. But as with all thing whenever a shining light is brought forth those that stand as pillars for it Cast shadows around it that will seek to snuff it out. **** Somewhere in the badlands 2 months after Buddyfight has become natural everywhere**** "You Cant Stand up to the might of my Decks! Now fall Before your Queen, Final Phase! I Cast Slow Pain Fall!" the silhouetted dragon to the fighters left started writhing and howling in agony before shattering into black shards at the The adult Pony who howled in pain. Underneath the nearby wagon hidden by its low form a young colt is watching in silent horror as the damage dealt to his father is becoming real. The assailant taking the stallion and his buddy monster before flying away with her 'buddy' monster into the night leaving him to himself. In that moment a voice was heard by the young unicorn. "Do you desire power?" It called out to him The boy hunkered down tighter. "Don't you want to get your father back? I can help you. I can give you strength to move the Sun and Moon. I do not wish to hurt you." The voice softly coaxed the boy out of his hiding spot. "There is no need for tears young one. Tell us, What is your name?" "M-my daddy calls me S-sunspot.." the Colt said sniffling. "A strong Name for a Strong stallion." The shadow said "But...I'm not strong.. I don't have a buddy Monster, or a cutie mark. and I couldn't do anything but hide when that thing attacked my father!" "You're right, you couldn't, but it is because of that weakness, that is why you will become strong isn't it? You survived so you can become stronger... As for not having a buddy, I can solve that." The voice said encouragingly. "Wait.. are you saying you will be my buddy?" "Of course Sunspot... and Buddies help each other, so I'll help you get back your daddy, if you help me prepare for a battle with my rival." It said. The boy was nodding happily agreeing to it before him the shadow produced a darker core deckcase. "What do i call you?" "You May call me Azi.." It said as it turned into a card before moving into the deck case. "Now move towards the moon... and look for the caves that is where we will find her." Azi stated the boy nodded grabbing his pack and running in the direction. Said. **** The Next Day in Ponyville**** "Spike! your Packs just came in!" Starlight called out as she held a package while heading back to the dinning room. In the Dining room is Qinus Axia, Asmodai Starlight's buddy, Trixie and her buddy Yamigitsune. Spike came out of the kitchen with a large stack of pancakes placing it down. "So do you think you will get your buddy this time?" Starlight asked happily. "Honestly I'm starting to doubt it. Hero world proved to be a bust, Darkness Dragon world isn't exactly my style, Dragon world seems to have all its bases covered. I'm starting to wonder if i even do get a buddy if he will be something lame." Spike said as he looked at the box of packs. Axia simply picked up spike placing him on her lap as he stroked his fins carefully. "Spikey relax, you will find your buddy. Buddies are supposed to be unconventional and help bring out the best in each other. Like myself and Twilight." Axia said calmly. Asmodai simply gave him a thumbs up. "Listen kiddo, if there is one thing I know its that fate is fickle and has a funny way of doing things. It's best to see just how something happens when it happens." Asmodai explained. "So why don't you start tearing into those packs. You spent your allowance on them so its only right after all, Right?" Spike slowly nodded his head as he started to open up the packs. "So Trixie how is the shows going now that you have Yamigitsune?" Starlight asked. "Honestly, Hes been a big help with his fox fire and the rest of Skull Warriors. They've been helping me put little stunts together as well as helping with set up and story telling." Trixie explained. Yamigitsune simply nodded. "Miss Trixie is great entertainment." He commented softly. "Heh, Hey Starlight,"Asmodai began "What is on our schedule for today?" "Hmm well I don't think there is anything really big going on. Or do you mean the 'Asmodai Sweet Times' Schedule." She got Asmodai's Devilish Smirk and rolled her eyes before using her magic to teleport the scroll. "Lets see we have help spike by delivering his packs from the mail mare done, help find Spikes buddy thats been hiding in his shadow since 3 nights ago, Chase the shadow around town," her voice began to get filled with confusion. "Wait what this is all new stuff, Whats going on Asmodai?" Starlight looked at him. The rest all began to look at Him then to spikes shadow as Spike was opening the last pack. "come to think of it. Didn't one of his packs had one less card than normal?" Twilight pointed out. Axia Slowly Began to lift spike up to look at his shadow. "Hey what's going on? I didn't mess anything up!" Spike said with a blush. "Its bad enough I didn't get a buddy from these so what are you doing Axia?" "Spike Look at your shadow and tell us if it seems off to you." Axia said as she put him on the table. Spike took a look carefully at it. For the briefest of moments it seemed like it moved on its own. "What the?" He then decided to poke the shadow with made it move again as its form changed into a cute little quadraped dark indigo dragon with 2 horns on its head that end in purple tips and tail that has a purplish flame on it. "Hmph its about time you noticed me but since YOU didn't notice me first I guess we have to play another game." The little Shadow said. "Catch me if you can." It said coyly before darting off. "Quick Catch that Shadow!" Twilight called out as the group began to Chase the shadow. Axia pulling spike with her as they began their chase. Up and down stairs and in and out of various rooms. The castle seemingly have changed from its normal lay out to have busts of the Shadow and Paintings and the such.. At one point the shadow appeared to be in a painting. throwing an apple at the group it ran off only to come back from being chased by the group with a Patented Pinkie Pie Party Cannon firing repeatedly at the group who was running away now. being chased into another room the shadow flew around into a room full of portals where it seemed to constantly move around in between them the group experimenting into which ones were working and such. Starlight picking up one of the Scroll Portals as Twilight flew out another end of it. The Entire group jumping into all of them then coming out different ones dressed in 70s Gear, the shadow running past them and up a staircase, the group immediately chasing. As the shadow reached the top of a spiral staircase it pulled a switch that made the stairs become a slide. Buddygifts becoming active at that moment saved them from falling back down as. Ending up in hallway with 8 different doors running in and out of different ones then when he entered the group began to search through all of them. Spike Stopping everyone making them all pick a different door as they all open at the same time revealing nothing. Then going to the last door. Opening it to see a Roaring Dragon Scaring Everyone into slamming the door. The shadow at the end of the Hall walking casually. The group following him as he ran out to the town. "What is that Monster..."Twilight asked they chased it to Sugar Cube Corner. "It's Called Shadow Dragon, A Dragon world Monster." Axia Explained as they stopped at the door. "A really Strange type of monster, and usually needs to be taken care of quickly or else it starts get out of hand and stronger than most players can deal with." Asmodai explained. "Unlimited copies." Yamigitsune Explained. "That little Guy? Hes just as small as me, He can't be that strong." Spike said as he opened the door walking inside. Pinkie Pie sitting with the dragons, giving them a fresh batch of muffins all but one of them disappearing after they each eat one except for one that was waiting for him to come in. "I assure you I am very strong, and you will be too, maybe even work up the strength to ask a certain mare out." The shadow Dragon whispered as he held out a Sapphire Surprise Cupcake. "I look forward to being your buddy." It said Smiling. > A new Challenger Approaches | Their First Fight Begins?! > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike joined the Original Shadow Dragon at the table ordering a Double Chocolate milkshake for himself. Twilight and Starlight sat down near them as well. "So lets cut to the chase. I want to be your buddy, You want a buddy. I've learned about you in the few days I've followed you around in your shadow, and am honestly excited. Outside of the fact that you way more intelligent than people give you credit for, you are also very caring and have a sense of justice. So what do you want to know about me?" "Well I guess I want to know what can do." Spike said. "I understand you're supposed to be strong but... and as a dragon i'm sure you understand my confusion, how can that be when you are so small?" Spike asked this made Shadow Dragon visibly bristle. "Yes I appear small but here is the deal with shadows. when its just one of us we don't appear as much." A Shadow Dragon that came up behind Starlight said. "But as more of us Come together and gather." a third said before the 2 new ones jumped onto the first and its form changed to larger variation with Red armor. "We grow stronger and stronger." "Wow... So you evolve during the fight?" Spike said in awe. "Yep. Ontop of that There is a special Item you can equip that gains the bonuses I give depending on the forms you allow us to take. This form is known as 'Die Shadow Dragon.'" He explained before turning back to normal. "I can go all the way up to size 3 and since I'm in the center with Soul Guard I can Protect you pretty well." "Hmmm Wait if your in the center then how do i use my weapon." "Its a weapon made of shadows there fore allows you attack from the shadows, you can attack even if you have a monster in the center." Shadow explained. "This is really great and all but i have only one issue so far." Spike began. "I always dreamed about being a knight that stands for whats right... Wouldn't I be using a dark deck if I do this?" Spike said with a worried look. This made Shadow sigh slightly. "Kid, there is more than one type of knight. The knight in shining armor will always be there but there is the Knight that stands in the dark to defend the light. He's the one that makes sure the real monsters in the dark don't even touch the light. Aren't you regarded as Spike the Brave and Glorious in the Crystal Empire?" Shadow stated more than asked receiving a nod from spike. "You got because you got to the heart before the darkness did and got it into its place in the light. So you've already stood in the Dark against the Dark Why not take it further and use its very power against them? You can be the Hero in the Dark, The Shadow of the Sun!" Shadow exclaimed with Excitement. Spike getting Hyped up by Shadows Speech Cheered at the title and Grinned. "Then lets Do it Shadow!" Spike said Shaking the Claw of the Dragon. In that moment A core Deck case that was Red and Black appeared between them. As Twilight walked over with some cards in her magical Grasp. "Here you go spike. This what i was able to build for you all thats needed is your buddy's cards and forms." She said as spike took the cards. Shadow Dragon smiled and Copies of himself began fill the deck. "By the way Spike, you can have as many copies of me in my base form in the deck as you want." Shadow said. Pinkie returned with Spikes Chocolate milkshake as he put the deck in his Core Deck Case, Just as Rainbow Dash rushes in. "There You all are, Listen we Gotta go Rarity Is fighting a Wandering Diamond Dog an is Losing!" Rainbow Cried out this drew a gasp from the everyone in the Confectionery store. All of them nodded and immediately Began moving. Even spike and Shadow which did not go unnoticed by Rainbow. "Congratulations Spike, You finally Got your buddy." she commented Quickly as they arrived on scene of the fight. Rarity's life points appeared to be at 4. Durandal at her hip and Galahad to her left Looking at the mare in worry. "Lady Rarity.." Galahad called out. "Worry not Sir, Galahad. That was this Brutish Mutt's Last attack. Mark my words We shall have our Vengeance against you, you Foul Beast!" She declared point her blade at the German Shepherd Diamond Dog. That had a Sword and Shield in his paws and to his right a massive monster in blue Armor. Said Diamond Dog had a rather clean Plaid short sleeve button up that was left open, and a Black hat with a red band around it. What was most noticeable though was that its entire right arm was Mechanical. The smile that was on its face when they arrived, fell into a nasty snarl. "Are you talking to me?" He began sheathing his sword to his side. The monster on his right gave a worrying look. "Uh-oh." The monster said obviously his buddy. "Are you talking to me?" Selecting a Card in his paws the Diamond Dog spoke. "You called him a Mutt."His buddy said moving out of the way slowly. "Are You TALKING TO ME!?" The Diamond Dog repeated Angrily. "Shouldn't have done that.." He commented quietly now. "Final Phase!" The announcer said. "They Call Me... MISTER! MUTT!" The Diamond Dog Roared as 4 gauge was used and suddenly He charged Slashing Through Rarity with his sword. Rarity gave out a shriek as the impact struck her life points dropping to 0. "Game Over, Winner Mektaves Armaldo!" The announcer declared. Rarity fell dramatically, keeping her hair perfectly coiffed of course, to her side. Spike quickly rushed over to his beloveds side as the rest of their friends cry out her name. Mektaves took a deep breath closing his eyes before releasing it and showing his happy smile again. "Rarity! Are you ok?" Spike asked as he landed by her side grabbing a hoof gently. "Oh spike... Is that you?" Her voice was weak. "Please get away while you can." She said fainting from the defeat. "Sir Spike." Durandal spoke up. "Please, I beseech you, I have Failed my duty to protect Lady Rarity. Defend her Honor where I have Failed. But be warned, this Mektaves Is not one to be taken Lightly." He explained. "Twilight... I'm taking this fight. Get Rarity to safety." Spike Said coldly, "Shadow are you Ready?" Twilight nodded as she picked up Rarity and set her down gently on a blanket provided by another pony. "Do you need to ask, my buddy?" Shadow said staring down the Diamond Dog's buddy. "... You want to fight me to?" Mektaves Said with a smile. "I'm not trying to do anything bad I was just wondering if there were any tournaments going to happen soon." He explained. "And well the ponies started screaming when saw me and my buddy then she challenged me saying if she won I had to leave the ponies alone. But I won't say no to a Buddy Fight!" His buddy monster however sighed. "And we didn't even start anything at all. it leaves this hell hound lost in confusion if you're barking up this tree." He Spoke. "Well be prepared because you have got yourself one, I am Spike the Dragon, Number 1 assistant to Princess Twilight Sparkle, and I challenge you to a Buddy Fight." "Well Spike, I am Mektaves Armaldo, Diamond Dog Buddyfighter. And I accept your Challenge." "New game Mektaves Armaldo Vs Spike The dragon" The announcer exclaimed Jubilantly. "Every dog has there day so lets start it now! Lumenize! Dog pack of the dungeon!" Mektaves Declared his deck case changing in a bright light to an Iron ball on a chain attacted to a golden bone. The Crystal on the ball. "Standing in the Dark I will use the Shadows to guarantee the Sun will rise! Lumenize! Shadows of the Sun!" Spike Deck case Turned into a rapier, with a sun themed guard with a Black blade and hilt along with a scabbard on his left hip the gem appearing on the guard. "Cool..." Spike said as he looked at it. As the Crowd Gathered to see their local Dragon fight. This time However Featherweight stepped foward with an alien UFO craft and a pink squid like thing. "whenever there is a major Buddyfight about to take place You can Bet That i'll be here with Takosuke to get the major Scoop. Everyone Say it with me Buddy...." "FIGHT!" The crowd Cheered. "I fight for Dragon World!" Spike Declared. As The flag appeared behind him. "I fight for Dungeon World!" Mektaves Countered While his appeared above him. "Since Mektaves won his last round he chooses who starts." Featherweight Declared. "I'll Let Spike have at it first, Lets have Fun!" He said a big smile across his features. 2 Gauge Appeared to left of each player as their fist 6 cards are dealt to both players. "Charge and Draw!" Spike Declared as he sent a card to the gauge. "Next I equip Shadowscale Sword, Dragoshadow!"Suddenly his deck case's blade became encased in shadows. "Then I cast Dragonic Shadow Gauge!" From his Deck 5 shadows burst and jumped into the shadows of the watchers. As a single glowing star went from his deck to the Gauge becoming 3 extra cards of light. "Next I'll attack you for 1!" Spike Declared as he charged the Diamond Dog Before Thrusting from the middle of the field Towards him. The Shadows around the Blade show forward like a magic Blast striking Mektaves in the chest. His Life Points appearing above him and dropping fomr 10 to 9. This drew Cheers from the crowd loud enough to wake Rarity so she can see what was happening. "The Turn ends. Mektaves Turn begin." The announcer noted > Equip | Who Let the Dogs Out?! > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Draw, Then Charge and Draw!" Mektaves Smirked "They say a good Offense Is a great Defense, Let me Show you Mine! I pay 1 gauge and Equip!" Mektaves Holds a card in his hand that one of the gauges flies into. "Shield of Glory, Order Guard" The card turned into a shield on his left arm. "Next I call to the left Doberman, Cobalt" A dog like Monster in shining Armor and Halberd Appears. "Then To the Center I call Big Surprise Pandora!" A chest with eyes fangs and arms and legs appeared in between the 2 players. "Now Doberman, Attack the Fighter!" "Yes, My liege!" the doberman said as it growled before swinging the Halberd onto Spike. Spike Grunted in pain from the force and His life Points dropped from 10 to 7. "Go Pandora!" Mektaves ordered with passion. laughing the entire way The pandora Ran up to spike. "I've got a present for you!" Pandora said as he gave a small box to Spike. "Oh really? Thank you!" Spike said opening it up only to have it explode in his face dealing another 2 damage dropping him to 5 health. "You know... I thought you were going to put up a fight... Do you not have any defense?" Mektaves asked worried. "The Turn ends, Spikes Turn begin." "I am fine.. Draw, and Charge and Draw." Spike Turned and Looked to his buddy and nodded. "Making his First Debut here in Ponyville is My Buddy Shadow Dragon, To the Center!" Spikes health increased from 5 to 6. "Too bad he is so Small and weak! I cast Hidden Crossbow!" Mektaves said smiling as the ground by spike opened a panel and shot forth against his buddy. making him shatter and dissappear into spikes shadow. "I'll just have to call him Back then!" Spike said Determined as from his shadow erupted a new Shadow Dragon. "Call me Small and Weak will you!" Shadow growled. "Next I activate his ability 'Call For Friends' By paying 1 gauge!" Spike Declared."and now another Shadow Dragon!" A Second Shadow Dragon appeared on the field to spikes left. "And since I have called a Monster with the Shadow Dragon Attribute I get 1 gauge from my deck! Next I pay 3 gauge and evolve The shadow Dragon in my Center!" "I'll Teach you to call me weak!" Shadow Said. 5 shadow Dragons Appeared from the Crowds Shadows and jumped onto teh Center one which became an mass of Shadows before it took form into that of a teenage Dragon with its wings spread in a vermilion armor. "Come Forth Dread Shadow Dragon!" Spike Declared as he did a little Flourish with his Shadow sword. "Now Shadow Dragon Attack Doberman, Cobalt." the Shadow on the right moved into the shadow of Doberman Cobalt. "Hah read your monster's Stats your Puny Shadow Dragon Can't Hurt my monsters!" Mektaves gloated. Suddenly a spike shot out of the shadow and skewered Doberman Shattering him as he gave off a slight whimper near instantly Making the Crowd Gasp in shock. "I told you not to call me weak." Shadow said calmly. "H-How!" Mektaves Demanded. "See here's something cool with Shadow. Whenever he evolves he gives all Shadow Dragon Attribute cards a special Bonus Depending on which one and how much soul he has. Dread Shadow Dragon Gives power equal to 2000 times his soul, and since he has 6 soul that equals a whopping total of..." Spike Trailed off smiling as Dread shadow dragon Rushed forward Against Pandora Before breathing Purple fire at him. "12,000 Additional Power." Dread explained. "And I have penetrate!" He breathed another wave of purple flames at Mektaves his health dropping from 9 to 6. "I activate Pandora's Special Ability!" Mektaves declares as the attack ends. "Ready? Rock... Paper... Scissors!" Mektaves calls out has hand extends to be giant metal claw of paper while Spike Throws out Scissors which shatters Mektaves paper. Suddenly a Bomb appears infront of Mektaves. "oops." He says as he takes another point of damage dropping him down to 5. "Atleast I have my Shield. And you have a monster in your center so you cant attack me!" he Says holding it up. "You would think so wouldn't you. But this isn't a Normal Sword." Spike says as jumps onto then off of Dread landing behind Mektaves before striking him with his sword. "This is a Shadow Sword and since its a 'shadow Dragon Attribute card it gains the bonus, and I can attack even if i have Shadow Dragon Attribute monster in the center." "Made of my Scales and following my power that sword shall Not Falter!" Shadow said Ambitiously. as Mektaves health dropped to 3. "The Turn Ends. Mektaves turn." "That was For Rarity." Spike said before Shadows Engulfed him and shifting his position back by his flag. "I see now the fire of passion that burns in your heart for her. I did not know, But I won't Apologize for Defending Myself! Draw! Then Charge and Draw! Now is the Time For the Alpha to make his appearance!" Mektaves called out, with a fire blazing in his eyes. "The calls of the Fallen Pack Members Call out his name! I pay 3 gauge and Call to the right!" The fallen Cobalts spirits Appear above Mektaves all begin Howlingbefore rushing where the 3 gauge go. "I buddy Call,Hellhound Lord, Bolzoye Cobalt Lord!" Disappearing from his side the Heavily Armored Monster appeared in right position. "Don't you Ever look down us Canines!" Bolzoye threatened as Mektaves gained 1 life from the Buddy Gift putting him at 4. "Bolzoye Call out the Pack It's Time to hunting!" Mektaves Ordered. "Right!" Bolzoye agreed before Howling Deeply Before Doberman Cobalt began to howl as well as he appeared on the left. "This Dogs Day isnt Done yet!" Doberman Growled. "Now Doberman Attack the center!" Mektaves Ordered. "Yes, Sir." Doberman moved to challenge the Dread Shadow Dragon. "Dragons will Always fall to the Knight!" Doberman Challenged before swinging his halberd to take off the Head only for it dissipate and Reform. Dread striking down at where Doberman was before he backed off. "This Dragon Has Soulguard! So I wont be going down just yet!" Dread answered Back. "Go Bolzoye! Take it out!" "Right Corgi On Me!" A spirit of another Cobalt appeared Jumping from the bushes as it fired several arrows at Dread, making Him Dissipate into shadows and reappear again just before Bolzoye struck with his enchanted claws forcing Dread to repeat the action with Bolzoye's attack. "I'm not finished Yet I have Double attack!" a third time Dread was forced to soul guard and then a fourth from the Corgi Archer. "What just happened!" Spike Called out as he saw the battle damage Dread held. "You see My Corgi Cobalt has a special ability when he is in the soul of one of my dungeon enemy attribute Cards at the end of the battle I can destroy one card of my choice!" Mektaves explained. "Spike... I dont have much strenght left." Dread said. He had one soul left meaning only a 3k power bonus to shadow Dragons on the field. "I end my turn." Mektaves said "The Turn ends. Spike's turn Begins." "Draw and Charge and Draw." Spike said Calmly... "Hey Dread... I'll need to switch you out." Spike said calmly. "Heh Looks like you have some talent for someone whose in the background so much among your friends." Dread said whistfully, "Fine, Do as you desire Buddy I Stand By your Side and Follow as we dive into the Depths of Darkness." "To stand Against the Truths of the Dark one must be willing Accept the Darkness in Himself!" Spike Claimed. "I pay 4 gauge and Evolve the Shadow Dragon on my right over the Center!" The shadow Dragon on the left Jumped onto the center shattering it into dark needles that struck spike dealing 2 damage leaving him at 4 before 6 shadow Dragons from the audience and 3 gauge surged towards the center. "Come Forth Shadow of the Shadows! Anatta Overshadow Dragon!" A massive Dragon appeared this time with Amethyst armor that glistened. "I am one and all, nothing and everything. A shadow with form yet formless!" The large Dragon Roared. "Wh-what!" Mektaves stared at the Shifting Massive Dragon of darkness seemingly appearing only bound by the armor it wore. "And This dragons ability Gives all Shadow Dragon Attribute Cards on the field an additional 1 thousand Power Bonus and 1 critical for every card in its soul." Spike Said His shadow Sword suddenly flowing violently. "Mektaves this is the Games end!" Spike said. "I link attack with Annatta!" "FACE THE WRATH OF SHADOW OF THE SUN!" Annatta Declared as he charged together with Spike. "Looks like i'll Survive I cast!" Mektaves Exclaimed. "Deflection!" Raising His shield Mektaves angled it to Slide the link attacks off to the side." This drew shocked gasps from the Crowd. "You Got that on Recording Right?" Featherweight asked his buddy who nodded Dumbly. "What!" The girls Cried out. "Should've seen it coming." Yamigitsune said shaking his head. "Now hold on the Turn isn't over yet. Lets see if he can finish this." Asmodai said. Axia and Pinkie were both holding Cheering Flags that had 'Go Spike Go' written on it. "So much for your Final attack." Mektaves called out smiling happily. "So is it my turn now?" "Not even Close..."Spike said to himself. "Fine then we finish with and Overflow." "Your going to use that?" Annatta asked looking back at his buddy. "Are you sure it will work?" "I don't Doubt it will. something one of royals taught me 'Deuces Never Lose.'" Spike said. This made the Dragon of shadows eyes widen and a fang filled grin to appear. "Then nothing changes.." Annatta said nodding to him. "Right then. I Declare... Final Phase!" In the Audience Vinyl Scratch and Octavia nodded just before music began to play. "When The Dark becomes to much for the light to bear!" Spike began His eyes blazing with Purple flames. "When the Light has been snatched from its places and has no more power." Annatta continued. "We Shall Arise as the Shadows of the sun to break the Dark before Dawn to Promise the world a new day as light begins again!" The Two spoke in tune with each other. "Buddy Skill activate!" the anouncer said as wings of made of Shadows appeared on Spikes back sending him skyward. "We Cast Shadow Dragon Arts, Dividing Shadows!" They Declared. "I sacrifice from myself 3 shadows." Annatta began. "To destroy 3 cards on your field Starting with Doberman," A black fireball erupted from Annatta's Chest exploding on impact with Doberman. "Then your buddy Bolzoye," Another Black Fireball launched and exploding upon the monster. "I have Soul guard!" Bolzoye said as he reappeared. "Finally Your item!" This time the Black Fireball struck the shield burning it away. "Now you take damage for every Card that was destoyed!" The black Flames erupted as pillar around Mektaves his health Dropping to 1. "And I recover that which you lost." The Same Black Pillar Seemed flow into the sword as his health increased from 4 to 7. Panting Mektaves is left standing after the Flames subside. "I'm Still Standing... And So is.. My buddy." Mektaves said. "But its still our turn." Annatta said. "Spike Finish this!" "Once More! Dividing Shadows! Annatta!" Spike Declared. "Sacrifices Must be Made!" He billowed while launching a torrent of shadows from his chest at Bolzoye. "Agghhhh!" Bolzoye screamed as he revived with soul guard. Before the same Shadows swallowed up Mektaves. Knocking his health down to 0 before subsiding. "Game Over. Winner... Spike Drake!" The announcer said as Annatta Devolved back into Shadow. As spike Landed in Front of Mektaves his wings Disappeared. "Well Fought Spike. That was a lot of fun!" Mektaves said Holding out his arm. "I hope we can fight again. Maybe then I can show you the real strength of my deck." "You really only came here looking to have fun didn't you?" Spike said before putting on a smile. "Well Let me be the first to really welcome you to Ponyville then Mektaves." Spike said shaking the Diamond Dogs metal paw. "Sorry about before just Rarity and I had a bad Run in with a few Diamond Dogs in the past." "Oh don't worry about it. I know how most creatures perceive us. But not all of us are like that honestly. And Buddy Fight is all about making friends and having fun why would I want anything different?" Mektaves asked cocking his head slightly confused. "Well some fighters have been out there causing troubles when their buddies first arrive. Then there is the Monsters that don't come legally." "Right Right! That was Part of the Reason I approached Rarity. I wanted to find out if she would be willing teach me how to be a member of the Buddies of Harmony, but then-" "Unfortunately I had Immediately thought the worst when I saw him." Rarity Spoke up as they approached. "I do admit i was rather uncouth to you Mr. Armaldo. I don't know how I could ever Make it up to you. Please Forgive me my prejudice." Rarity Said with embarrassed Blush. "Oh its no worries... I had thought something along those lines would happen. Bolzoye here was actually saying it was a guarantee." Mektaves said. "And please My friends call me Mekarm. On account of well..." Mektaves flexed his robotic arm. "And I would Very much like to be friends with all of you." "Ofcourse it was Guarantee did you not see the pack over there by the Gem fields? Its a wonder how no pony was abducted by them yet." Bolzoye said in his Sized Down Form which made him look like a white wolf in blue armor. His comment Drew a laugh from the Surrounding Ponies and Monsters Confusing the two newcomers. "What? Was it something I said?" Bolzoye looked up at his Buddy who shrugged. > Cast > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It has been a week Since Mekarm came to Ponyville and more or less, everyone has warmed up to him. Pinkie threw a Welcome to Ponyville party for him, and then a 'Congrats on your Buddy and first Victory' Party for Spike and Shadow. Rarity and Durandal, inspired by the form Spike's Deck Case takes when he activates crafted a fine outfit befitting of a Rogue Prench Musketeer. Based on darker coloration with a Claret Red to a Dusk Orange trim and near Black base with a cloak that goes over his left shoulder, with a Darkened Sun symbol Similar to Celestia's Cutie Mark in the center of it. News of the 'Shadow of the Sun' Spike and Shadow Dragon Hit the Foal Press and even spread out to Canterlot as Mekarm's Debut among the first of the Diamond Dogs to approach Pony Society with intentions of Peace and Fun. "Not all of us are greedy little dogs seeking out Gems for their own gain. Some of us are actually smart and want to help where we can in society." The Canterlot Gazette quoted when they interviewed him. This was followed by an announcement made by all of the princesses. "It is because of those like Mektaves Armaldo that we seek to properly bring every being together. And it seems That Buddy Fight has led us to that chance to bring about this change. So We have decided to found and build Several schools dedicated to Buddy Fighting. Located in 2 different Locations. If there is anybeing that wishes to test their mettle, become stronger, or even just have fun and make Friends Buddyfighting, We encourage them to come to the Buddy Fight Academies Located in either the Crystal Empire or in Ponyville." The official Statement of each of the princess said at the World Summit that was called this was met with other countries such as Griffonstone making their own academies. With the help of the Monsters and Citizens the schools were Built in just a few days. In Ponyville the staff consisted of the Elements of harmony and a select few others along with their Buddy Monsters. With Twilight Sparkle as the Head Mistress, seconded by Prince Blueblood. Enrolled in the school was Nearly Every dedicated buddy fighter from Vanhoover to Baltimare, and everywhere in between. So as one would imagine Ponyville became too small the response. The school was then moved to rebuild, Refurbish, and give access to Castle of the Two sisters as a proper Academy. However far past the badlands, a dark force begins to stir. Undisclosed Hidden Lair "Do you see how this former queen bows before your strength, Sunspot?" Azi asked him. "It's incredible... You're so strong Azi!" young colt said with glee. "And this place will make the perfect home. So we must thank you, but I don't exactly trust her." The adult said. "The terms of a buddyfight are non negotiable. I Would never betray his strength." Chrysalis Spat in heated anger at the remark. "But Let's be honest here Clockwork... Your son's buddy monster terrifies you. The monster, the deck, even the fact that your son knows how to use it so well like its second nature has you scared." Chrysalis said with a smile as Sunspot turned to his father. "Dad? Do you not like what I'm able to do?" He asked confused. "No.. no son thats not true at all.... I just... its a lot to take in. And the fact that what you have is..." He trailed off unable to find the words. "Perhaps Sunspot... Your father needs a demonstration of your strength personally." Azi's voice was filled with conviction as it spurred on the colt. "Daddy... lets fight." He said with a smile as his eyes glinted with dark ambition. Opening Ceremony of the Equestrian Buddy Fight Academy. With the help of the buddy monsters and Fluttershy The construction of a safe Pathway, Dormitories, and the castle itself was made. A Good sized wooden Stage was made with the entire staff sitting on it as Princess Celestia and Luna approached the Podium their Buddy Monsters, Captain Answer, and Dark Hero Schwarz. Spike and Mekarm where sitting next to each other in a crowd of what seemed like hundreds. Shadow and Bolzoye sat next to their respective partners. "Welcome Every being. It is with great honor and Joy that we open the first ever Buddy Fight Academy in Equestria. I would now like to pass this along to Head Mistress Princess Twilight Sparkle, and Sub-Head Master Prince Blue Blood." Celestia said as she backed away while the two strode forward. "Thank you Princess Celestia. As many of you know I am Princess Twilight Sparkle, Princess of Friendship and the bearer of the Element of Magic of the Elements of Harmony. Over the years my friends and I have traveled to many lands. Seen many things but one thing we have noticed is that no matter what the magic of Friendship will stand strong. And now with Buddy monsters and Fights, I can see and make even more ever lasting bonds. I hope all of you will take you're lessons to heart and make memories and Bonds that stay with you forever." This was met with Many cheers and excited exclamations. Lifting her hoof to quiet the crowd she spoke again. "Prince Blue Blood do you have anything you would like to add?" She said facing him. In the back Rarity could be seen seething in rage, with Durandal attempting to calm her down, with hushed words. "I do Princess, I would like to congratulate all of you for making it this far. In the next few weeks I will be beginning a Free For All style tournament. Every being is to gather in groups of at least 3 and at most 5 and register themselves prior to the beginning of this. when there are 16 teams left the tournament will change to a block style tournament, with a losers bracket. Top 2 teams of the primary Bracket and the winner of The losers Bracket will continue on to represent Our academy in a challenge issued from Crystal BF Academy. I look forward to seeing your results. The rules will be posted on the news bulletin and Copies for further inspection will be available in the recreational rooms. Please note, to qualify your team you must be able to defeat one of the Teachers and Must hold a GPA of atleast 3.0 . With that being said I will now allow one student to give a small welcoming to the rest of the school. He was selected for this privilege due to his immense strength and capability. Please welcome Atlas.." Blue Blood and Twilight walked away as a sun orange colt no cutiemark adorning him and no buddy visibly on him but he had a small band with his deck around his left hoof as he walked up to the podium. "Hello every creature. I look forward to this year and fighting everyone of you. It will be interesting to see how interesting each fight will be, so please hold nothing back." Atlas said with a smile, tilting his head and closing his eyes before walking away. Spike and Mekarm flinched at this. "That child..." Bolzoye began. "He was insulting everyone here..." Shadow finished. "Spike are you thinking what I am?" Mekarm questioned as he cast glance towards spike who met it back. "How is he so strong?" Spike said nodding. "We Hereby announce and present The Equestrian Buddy Fight Academy is Now OPEN!" Luna said as she cut the ribbon. After that Pinkie threw a welcoming party for the academy and buddy fights erupting from the students as they challenged one another. Spike, Mekarm, Shadow and Bolzoye were searching for Atlas to fight him when Spike heard the growling of a dragon Turning his attention to it he spotted a Black-winged dragon with his claw against the wall and between him and the wall appeared to be a young pegasus mare who was backed up into it. "Where in Tartarus is HE! I know, You know. You ALWAYS KNOW!" The Dragon growled at young mare. She was flinching back into the wall from the obviously angry dragon teen. "HEY!" Spike called out upset, "Back. Off. The. Pony." Spike Growled as he walked up to the two. The Black Dragon turned his attention to the purple dragon in front of him. "What do you want you little brat." The black Dragon crossed his arms over his chest as he glared at spike. "I said back off the mare, It would violate my code if i let you continue to attack her. So stop before we have a problem." Shadow, Mekarm, and Bolzoye showed up catching the scene. "Listen here Runt, your a thousand years too early to tell me what to do." He glared into spike with red eyes. "So what if it violates your code, What are you going to do to stop me?" He gave a smug fang filled grin. Spike Growled at this Shadow showed up. "You are Both buddy fighters right?" Mekarm inquired getting a nod from them. "How about you settle this with a buddy fight then? Like Real warriors." He offered the two. "I don't like to waste my time fighting people weaker than me but fine. It will be nice to put a punk in his place. Plus we might be able to draw his attention." the black dragon said pulling out his core deck case. "Or is the Pipsqueak too scared?" He chided spike. Spike Growled and took out his deck case. "If I win You leave the mare alone." Spike said accepting the challenge. "And If I Win you mind your own Business Pipsqueak!"He growled. The two nodded as their core deck cases activated. Spikes turning into the rapier, Arid's turning into a scythe. "Let's Raise the Flag!" Both dragons stated at the same time. "I fight for Dragon world!" Spike said as Multiple Shadow Dragons Planted it. "I fight for the Searing Executioners!" The flag bursting into life from flames as it stands on chains. The ground around them trembled as a black dragon Burst forth from the Earth. The young mare sighed before face hooving herself. Mekarm noticed this raising his eye brows. "IF YOUR GONNA FIGHT USING THAT ONE YOU BETTER WIN ARID!" The Pegasus called out. Mekarm looked confused before walking over to the pony. "Why are you rooting for that dragon? Wasn't he accosting you?" he asked. "Because Arid is my friend.. Sorta... He likes to lose to my big bro curry a lot." She explained. "I'm Stargazer by the way." Her cutiemark was some kind of flower with a few stars around it. Those who were watching fights around them heard the declaration of the new flag members of many races began to watch what would become of this new flag. "What is that Flag? I've Never heard of that world." Spike said confused Looking to his buddy. "That's because unlike you weaklings I'm not confided to one World This is a special flag with a special set of rules." Arid said cockily his gauge life and hand appearing before suddenly his life dropped Violently to 8 and his gauge increased by 2. "As long as i Use this flag I can use all monster and spells that have the Executioner attribute, and My inital gauge becomes 4 while my starting life becomes 8." Arid grinned. "Pfft, Less health? That just makes it easier to beat you." Spike said grinning with a smile. "My Win is guaranteed." "You would do well to learn your place Whelp. Allow us to remind you. I am Earth Tremor Black Dragon, Soulvaag" The larger dragon stated. "And I am Arid, and All will kneel before the Executioners!" He declared Pointing his scythe at Spike. "Except my brother!" Star gazer called out Arid's smug look turned strained as both him and Soulvaag restrained their visible anger at the mention. "Arid VS Spike Drake Match Begin. Buddy.... FIGHT!" > The Dragons Duel | Honor VS Pride > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Behold those that have sinned lined before you and Administrate your Judgement! Lumenize, Executioner's Destruction!" "Standing in the Dark I will use the Shadows to guarantee the Sun will rise! Lumenize! Shadows of the Sun!" "Spike Drake has the first move." The announcer began. "Right Charge and draw!" He declared. " I equip Shadowscale sword, Dragoshadow. Next I cast Dragon Shadow Shuffle." Spike roared rushing right out of the gates to set his field up. Before rushing at Arid striking him with the sword. Dropping his life from 8 to 7. "The move ends. Arid's Turn." The announcer declared. "Draw and Charge And Draw." Arid said before getting a wicked smile. "Behold the Gates of Tartarus brought to life. I set Gate of Verdict, Judgement" Behind Arid and Soulvaag A massive Fiery gate chained up broke where some screams of pain can be heard as the gates are pounded on from the inside. "Next I activate Damian's Decision Milling the top 2 cards of my deck gaining one gauge and adding a card to my hand." Doing as describes. "Next I call to the left Chaotic Hunt Jaiiler, Soku." "Ooh another catch to throw with the rest of the Prisoners? Seems Kinda small." It sang while playing with its net. "Activating Soku's effect I mill two cards and draw one. Now I call Headhunter Jailer, Sai to the right." A black dragon appeared from the mist with spikes piercing its cloak and wielding two scythes. "I pay one gauge now and equip Purgatory Sword, Silver Givson and I activate its affect. I mill one card and pay one gauge and i draw again." he declared as black and silver sword appeared in front of him "Why are you destroying your own Deck so much?" Spike asked confused. Arid could only smile at this. "I activate the skill of my gates by destroying 2 more cards from my deck I'll gain one gauge!" The chains from the gate behind him shot forward and struck his scythe pulling 2 cards out of it and shattering it before a new gauge appeared. "I pay 3 gauge and call to the left The warden of Tartarus, and the who shall judge your sins. Master of the Searing Executioners, Gagalgarios." Appearing in a great pillar of fire that ravaged the earth around it a massive black dragon dug its ways out as 5 more chains from the gate of verdict shoot out and rip cards from Arid's deck destroying them. "When Gagalgarios Appears I have to sacrifice 5 cards from my deck but if i have 15 or more cards in my drop he gains a special gift an extra critical and Penetrate!" the black dragon roared as magma seemed to explode under its skin. "Go Gagalgarios Show this whelp why you are the Master!" The black dragon reared itself as it smashed spike under its claws dealing 3 damage dropping his health from 10 to 7. "NOW DOUBLE ATTACK!" It proceeded to blast black magma directly onto Spike who called out in shock from the attack as his health dropped from 7 to 4. "Such... Power.."Spike groaned as the black dragon backed up. "Don't Give up spike!" Mekarm called out. "You Defeated Me after all You can Handle This guy!" "I'll show you the difference in our skill!" Arid Declared as he beat his wings propelling him forward passing by Spike before slashing him at his knees Dropping his health further down to 3. Spike couldn't even keep up with the movements from Arid when he cut him at the knees making him fall forward. Using the sword to help stay up but on his knees. "GO Headhunter!" He called out. The Smaller Dragon appearing before Spike lowering both of his scythes like scissors at his neck before slashing through him forcing a card to disappear from spikes deck as his health drops to 2. "SPIKE!" Starlight called seeing the last attack, as she joined the spectators of the "The turn ends. Spike Drakes Move!" The announcer said. "Stand Up Spike! You are the Shadow of the Sun are you Not!" Shadow Challenged, "Use the Darkness and Stand Up and Fight!" "Stay down Kid and Give up." Arid said Pointing the scythe at him after impaling the sword into the ground. "This is the level of difference between a real fighter and some wannabe." Spikes eyes shifted in that moment becoming more draconic as he forced himself up holding the sword before him. "Your Getting up? You intend to keep fighting? FINE I'LL END YOU THE WAY YOU DESIRE THEN! "I'm NOT GIVING UP! DRAW AND CHARGE AND DRAW! I BUDDY CALL SHADOW DRAGON TO THE CENTER!" Spike declared the dragon jumping into the fray. "Take this and Stand stronger than Before!" Shadow called back administering the buddy gift healing 1 health point back to to spike. "Next Since a Shadow Dragon Attribute card was called I gauge one card And Now I activate my Shadow Dragons Ability 'Call for Friends' Milling my top two cards of the deck to call any other shadow dragons to the field." The deck burst with darkness but nothing else happened. "So i guess no friends this time around but thats fine. I pay 4 gauge and evolve the Shadow Dragon in my Center. Come Forth Anatta Overshadow Dragon! and with its skill All Shadow Dragon Attribute Cards Gain 7000 power and 7 Critical. And Since Shadows Are always Growing I'll call in two more Shadow Dragons to the left and Right." Two more pure black Anatta Overshadow Dragons appeared in the left and right vs the one in the purple armor as the sword pulsated violently. "The Left Shadow will attack your Right!" The first pure black shadow dragon tore through the Headhunter shattering it. "THe right shadow will attack your Left!" "I Pay one Gauge and Cast Helles Shield!" The attack was stopped by large shield that once struck broke up into 3 pieces two that flew towards Arid's guage and joined it and one that ripped through Spike Dropping his health back to 2. "Wh-what just happened?" Spike looked confused. "My helles shield Nullified your attack and since i had 10 plus cards in my drop I gained 2 gauge and since i had 15 plus cards i got deal you one damage. You Will not win." Arid Said coldly. The fight was drawing a crowd. "A-amazing strong in offense as well in defense?" Mekarm stood shocked at the power of the Searing Executioners. As a small Fairy flew past him to stargazer. "Big bro is watching?" Star asked the fairy nodded when Mekarm saw. "Great," She paused cupping her hooves to her mouth before calling out. "HEY ARID!" "WHAT!" Arid roared annoyed at Star. "Big Bro Curry Is watching you Fight!" This made Arid Smile. "Then I Can't Lose or i Risk embarrassing him! COME AT ME RUNT!" Arid Challenged full of fire. "OH I'll Come at you Alright! I ATTACK YOU!" He said As he thrust his rapier out towards Arid It split into 8 different points as it reached around Anatta before it went to crash into Arid. Arid only sighed annoyed. "You just don't learn do you kid... I CAST ANOTHER HELLES SHIELD!" The 8 points struck the shield repeatedly till the shield broke into 3 pieces again like before. 2 went to the gauge and one tore through spike dropping his health down to 1. "Anatta... attack Gagalgarios!" Anatta unleashed a torrent of shadow flames which overhwelmed the black dragon destroying it in an explosion which dropped Arid's Health by 2 putting him at 5. "Final PHASE!" "WAIT SPIKE ITS NOT-" Shadow began to call out to him only to be interrupted . "To stand Against the Truths of the Dark one must be willing Accept the Darkness in Himself!" Spike Claimed. "I Cast Shadow Dragon Arts, Dividing Shadows" " Anatta's Left claw bursted into shadow Needle's Destroying the item and the gates. "I CAST Shadow Crusader." SPikes health increased by 2 as the shadows formed around him but nothing else happened to Arid his health remaining at 5. "Why didn't you take any damage?" "Because of my spell shadow crusader I can sacrifice 3 cards from my deck to reduce the damage i would've taken by 3. thanks making your cards weaker By the way." Arid laughed. "Youngling you are to wet behind the ears for this fight." Soulvaag stated. "I tried to warn you spike..." Anatta said softly. "The move ends. Arid's Turn Begins." The announcer stated. "Draw, and then Charge and draw." selecting one of the cards in his hand. "I Set once more The gates of Verdict Judgement. Welcome to Tartarus!" The gates returned Full force behind Arid the chains whipping about. "Next i activate the secondary effect of Gate of Verdict Judgement. Paying 3 gauge I resurrect one of the cursed Souls of Tartarus. Come forth Hellfire Executioners Dragon, Gagalgarios." The gate is rocked as something from inside of it pounds against it. The chains are heard creaking as fire licks through the openings before they shatter and the gate opens up. A single card come forth and lands in Arid's Claws as it lights itself with hellfire before the chains fix themselves and seal back the Gate. "I call to the left Glutton Jailer, Glugiu Then I activate the first effect of my Gate of Verdict I mill 2 more cards and gain one gauge." The chains of the gate lash out and grab destroying 2 more cards from his deck as a third chain forces the gauge to increase to 3. "Now I Pay 3 gauge and Sacrifice Glugiu, come forth Pinnacle warden of your own Prison, Hellfire Executioners Dragon, Gagalgarios!" A blazing vortex of hellfire rocked the field surrounding the fighters into the eye of the blaze as the Volcanic Black Dragon from before appears the hellfire engulfing him and dancing over his body as it roars in anger. the Vortex itself seems to be consumed by its flames as it settles and everyone can see the field once more. "You see here you little runt, this is what a true fighter looks like. It doesn't matter who I attack I still win. Let me explain how. Whenever this version of Gagalgarios attacks you if either one of us has 25 or more cards in the drop we both loose the top two cards of our deck I gain 1 gauge, and most importantly you get dealt 2 damage for each attack. By the way, He has double attack." Arid said smugly. "You weren't even enough of a challenge for me to use my buddy." He stops and looks at Gagalgarios "Sick 'em Gagalgarios." The Blazing Dragon roars before it looses hellfire upon the shadow dragon on the right. The overbearing flames destroying cards form Spikes deck and dropping him down to 1 life. Then turning and Pouncing over Anatta before engulfing Spike's left monster zone in hellfire erupting outwards and blowing Spike away as his health dropped to 0. Anatta Disappeared back into a normal Shadow Dragon before disappearing into Spike's Shadow. "Winner Arid." The announcer Declared. "See Mercury! I told you I can't lose to anyone but you!" Arid boasted to the crowd as Hellfire Disappeared. Mekarm and Starlight both rushed to Spike only to see him being helped to his feet by a White Pony with Bat-like wings. > Mercurial Fall > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike Looked at the Batpony confused as he was helped up. Mekarm, Starlight and Star Gazer all came towards spike. "Spike are you Ok?!" Starlight looked at him worried checking him for any actual damage. "I'm fine, just wounded pride." Spike said morosely as he dusted himself off. "Thanks..." he said to the bat whose Yellow eyes seemed to glow. "You are Cursed to be Met With a Terrible Fate." The bat pony said a predator's smile growing showing off his fangs. "When Despair is highest and emerald shines the shadow will leave and into its depths will you venture. A journey to a land forgotten by time will guide your path with one who is dancing with the strings that make him move. Spike Drake, Grab hold of living lightning and confront the coming tempest for what you call yours will be stolen from you as Sun and Moon Fall to the will of another. Find the place of what should've been birth and let your fury be known but be not at peace for one that is left behind will fall further while you rise." The bats eyes seemed to become hypnotic with darker Colors that reflected in Spikes eyes. "The paths you take the bonds you forge will mean nothing but fights you stand for, the reason you draw your blade that is what will change -" The Bat stopped wincing as he began to cough violently. Gritting his teeth as blood seems to seep from them before he passed out. "ARID!" Stargazer called out to the dragon with purpose "PROPHECY! TERRIBLE FATE!" Arid snapped to attention and flew fast picking the bat pony up. "I swear to god Mercury If I have to live SO DO YOU!" She said. "Sylph, Go and inform Kyoya!" The fairy flew out of her hair before turning and nodding with a salute and disappearing in a small flash of light that enveloped her. "Sorry Runt We gotta go." Arid said carrying the bat. "Wait!" Spike called out grabbing Arid's Wing. "What was that about!" "Don't worry about it kid. You will remember it later on when it matters." Arid said flicking his wing making spike let go. "Then At least tell me this... You... You weren't fighting me seriously where you?" Spike looked up slightly hopeful until he met the blank face that was on Arid's "What that wasn't obvious?" Arid Shrugged "Star... Hurry up and lets find our dorm rooms. I'm getting tired of carrying your brother!" "Yeah Yeah, Bye Every Creature!!!" Stargazer called out as they flew off. Starlight looked over spike worried as Mekarm patted his back. "Hey it's ok, You win some, you lose some. There are going to be those out there that are naturally stronger." Mekarm said trying to cheer up his friends. "Tell you what lets go have some fun and fight some other people." "Nah... I think I'm good today... Besides I don't want to give away too many of my strategies before the tournaments!" "Yeah that's a great Idea. Lets go get our schedules and check everything out." Mekarm said happily his tail wagging as the two walked off. The rest of the day went off without much commotion as every creature was either enjoying themselves fighting, or getting themselves situated with their teachers. The next day would be the first day of school. Spike Waking up bright an early due to Qinus cooking, came down to enjoy breakfast with Starlight, Twilight, Trixie and their buddies. Shadow emerged and sat next to Spike not saying anything. "Hey Twilight." Starlight Began, "What can you Tell me About a student Named Mercurial Fall?" "Oh! He is one of our Special Admittance Students. Recommendations from Princess Luna's top guards." Twilight said happily. As Qinus served french toast to everyone. "He is one of the few fighters at the academy who doesn't have a Buddy Monster." "By Choice." Yamigistune Said calmly. "A strange student, who primarily uses Dungeon World, A White Bat pony, with a Drop of Mercury as his Cutie Mark. His Sister is a Pegasus Pony named Star Gazer." Twilight explained. "What do you want know about him?" "Did you say a white Bat pony?" Spike said suddenly paying attention as they ate. "Little dude is talented." Asmodai Explained. "He fights without buddies but is quick to learn most decks. Most of the time if someone wants to fight him he asks if someone will let him borrow the deck for the fight." "Why?" Trixie asked. "It has to do with an Agreement he has with a monster that is allowed Special Privileges because of him. A bad dude named Kyoya. He came here Illegally but made a deal with Mercurial Fall to work together for their goal. Mercurial will help find who or what Kyoya is looking for and Kyoya will look for a Monster that is a better fit for Mercurial. I caught a few of the matches the little guy did last night He was no Slouch, Will probably be one of the big fighters in the coming tournaments." "If he even Bothers with them." Qinus said. "Qinus and I had a chance to talk to him. Qinus more than myself." Twilight added. "While I was talking to him he said he has no ambition for competitive Fighting outside of deal. But he will spectate every fight he can." Qinus Said. "What happened with you Sparkle? Did he get bored of your Inquisitiveness and quickly leave you behind?" Trixie chided earning a scowl from Twilight. "Thankfully enough no. When he saw me His eyes glowed for a moment and he began saying some weird things, 'A terrible fate befalls you A snake in the grass with thunderous hunger, A tempest that will seize what I hold closest and only when living lightning arrives will the storms be calmed.' I don't know what all that means but he passed out. It was another student, a Dragon Named Arid, that picked him up and took him back to the dorms afterwards." "Weird he said something similar to me too.. I mean it was more dealing with Shadows but the Living Lightning and Tempest showed up as well." Spike Commented. "Perhaps some kind of Connection?" Asmodai offered before finishing up his meal. "Anyways, Lets start heading out We don't want to be late to our classes." everyone agreed with that statement and got up began their walk to the school. However Outside the Academy entrance was a mass gathering of students. The Entire group shifted through the crowd till they were able to see what was going on. A familiar White Bat Pony, purple Pegasus and black dragon behind him, and Sun Orange Colt where in front of the school standing a distance apart as if a fight were about to begin. Twilight being the Head Mistress walked forward with Qinus by her side. "And just what is going on here, My dear students?" Twilight inquired. "Ah Head Mistress Twilight. I was hoping you would arrive. I was simply on my way to class when this brute bumped into me and did not apologize. Honestly some pony like him without a true Buddy Monster shouldn't even bother attending this school." He explained. "I'm sorry, Atlas but Mercurial Fall is allowed here. As are those who don't even have that same privileges that he has with a monster." Twilight stated calmly. "You should count yourself lucky that you do have a buddy." "And Mercurial I do believe you owe an apology to young Atlas." Qinus Scolded. "Yeah Sorry about that little guy. I didn't see you. Head was in the clouds, you know?" Mercurial said Calmly with a smile. Atlas's face went from Triumphant to Fury unbridled. "Little?! I'll Show you Little! Consider this a Privilege You Dirty Bat, I Challenge you to a Buddy Fight!" "Listen Here you Little Rugrat, He's Stronger-" Arid's Tirade was cut off by Mercurial Shooting a wing out to quiet him as Several Spheres of lights appeared from the deck in his saddles circling the group. "Come now, Mercury. Are you going to just take that?" A sadistic sounding laughter came from one that pulsed purple and white stopping by Arid's left. "I bet even the little sister could handle him." A cocky and mildly whiny voice said the pulsed green and white. "His Hubris is most certainly not Beautiful of a noble." A blue and white light said. as a yellow and white light shot forward to appear as a bipedal form with long white hair. "Analysis: He is weak." She said before floating back to the group. "It doesn't matter if he is weak or not He needs to be put down." a voice filled with anger said. Another light appeared showing another Bipedal being in Black garments with the marking of demonic like eyes a red cape and vicious sword appearing in his hands. "Well Mercury, he has issued his challenge.. wouldn't it be in our best interest to accept it just to see his deck?" The being said with a coy smile. "It seems my partners have made my decision for me to fight. Kyoya... its good to see you again." Mercurial fall smiled as the rest of the lights and monsters went back into the deck Shifting the saddle bag off himself as he took out his core deck case. "In effort to change the worlds fate, one must be willing to make sacrifices. Dark Lumenize Disaster Company." The case shifted to appear as a pauldron upon his left shoulder. "Humph In life those with power rule the world, Behold as in Death this continues, Lumenize Harrowing Hollows!" the colts' Deck case turned into a Crown. "I Will not allow this." Twilight quickly interrupted. "Not like this." her voice held disappointment. "Come now Head Mistress Sparkle. I think this would make an excellent Exhibition Match for our school. Give the students an Idea of what they should strive to become." Blue Blood approached from the side. "Yes Atlas vs Mercurial Fall. That would make an excellent fight. Especially since his Partner has decided to appear before us this day." He said as he turned to face Kyoya. "Can I assume you will be staying around?" "I'll be here and there as I please. There are a lot of fighters here and I wish to see what talents they may have if even they don't have what I'm looking for." Kyoya explained. "ugh... Fine Blue Blood we can do this. BUT WE ARE DOING THIS INSIDE AFTER HOME ROOM!" the class bell began to ring. "Which starts now Everyone hurry to classrooms." Twilight declared the students of various ages groaned hoping to see something amazing. Mercurial fall just shrugged and beckoned Kyoya to follow. Star gazer followed happily along as Arid Glared at Atlas walking away. Spike met up with Mekarm as the two walked to class Shadow and Bolzoye at their sides. "So do you think Mercurial fall will win?" Mekarm asked. "From what we know based on Arid on Stargazer he is a very strong fighter." Bolzoye commented. "The school could be filled with Strong and or talented fighters. We just need to get stronger to survive. But I hope someone puts that brat in his place." Spike said as he walked into the class. Most of the Class however was watching the far side corner. Where an annoyed black drake was glaring at everyone a white bat pony was laughing at his partner due to a purple pony gripping the cape and pulling it over the white and red haired Bi-pedals head. "Cool... We share class with them." Spike said happily as he started to walk up only for a flying black tad pole covered in purple aura with 4 red eyes to float in front of them before opening its mouth to reveal another eye on its tongue with a note of a desk number and name for both Mekarm and Spike. Taking the notes they went to their assigned desks. Spike and Mekarm's were thankfully next to each other with Arid on the left side of Spike. "Your in this class Runt? I thought this was only for the elite Members..." Arid said dryly. "Yeah... it is... Hey would you be willing to help become stronger?" Spike asked Arid. "sure fight more people and get good scrub." Arid said "Now Now, You are all here because for one reason or another you all wanted to improve some way. So lets not be too hasty now gentle drakes." A voice said from no where. The silence that went off in the class room became astonishing as everyone looked around. "For strength and weakness are one in the same. For one to be strong they must know weakness. and for the weak to beat the strong they have to know true strength." The voice seemed to echo around the room. "Wait a second they allowed you to be a teacher?!" Spikes incredulity drew the confusion of rest of the class. "Discord stop playing games before you scare some pony." "Take all the fun out of it Spike why don't you." a Chalk drawing of Discord began to move and pout with his claws on his hips. "Well student's lets get roll call underway. Firstly I am Professor Discord your home room and Special Tactics Teacher, In buddy fight there is more than one way to win than just breaking down the enemies center and attacking them directly I will be helping you Understand that. And this hungry little fella is Hundred Demons Yamigedo. My buddy monster." He gestured to the tad pole which started flying about in circles. Now please say something when I call your name." Stepping out of the chalk board and picking up a rock he rolled it in his hands before rubbing his thumb against it flipping it like a bunch of pieces of paper as it turned into a Clipboard and papers. "Mektaves Armaldo?" "Present." Mekarm said "But Please call me Mekarm." "Arid Drake?" "Something..." Discord guffawed as he appeared next to him. "Oh I am going to have fun with you." he said happily before walking away. "Spike Drake i know you're here. By the way Spike are we still good for our normal sessions with Big Mac next Thursday?" he asked looking up. "I'll have to check with him and the girls but we should be barring nothing crazy happens." Spike said. "Spike I am Crazy." He said with a chuckle. "Rex Diamantes?" "Woof Woof." A smaller diamond dog stated. This one closer to a Chihuahua. "Mercurial Fall. You are definitely Here, try not to lose too badly out there." Discord smirked as he said that. "I'll do my best but i wont make any promises. Anything can happen after all." "Star Gazer?" "Present~ Can I take a Nap?" The Purple Pegasus asked. "Only until they call your brother to lose to Atlas." She pouted at that statement and then laid her head down to sleep. "Silver Spoon." "Here~!" "Diamond Tiara?" "Also Here." "Gilda?" "I'm Taking a Nap as well." the griffon said. "And finally, Spinneret?" "Here." a darker purple changeling responded. "Well everyone Lets get going to the Major Fighting Hall." Discord said as Mercurial fall woke up his sister and the Griffon who glared at him began to walk down having various conversations about what was going on. Star Gazer and Arid Bragging about Mercury. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon Bragging about Atlas, Spinneret and Gilda glaring Darkly at each other as Mekarm and Spike followed suit. > Attack | Disaster Strikes > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Arena was made into a golden Coliseum similar to a cathedral but the color was a muted and Dulled Gold. It was made exceptionally large to house even the largest of Monsters and Beings Such as Ex Dragon Lord Torch. Discord had explained it was based on Pocket Dimension Theories provided by Head Mistress Twilight, And Exploited by Both Discord and the monsters. It was in this room Yamigedo took to his full size. "The room is designed to take on and appear as a different fields for the most Life-Like Battles." Discord said. "Yamigedo Feel Free to stretch a bit but don't get too comfortable you will have to go back to Mini as the school starts to pool in," The monster nodded its head, "Now if you look to the top you will see mosaics Donated by Princess Celestia For each Worlds Flag. Just below them you will see Mosaics Requested by Some of the Worlds in honor of some of the greatest fighters from their past. For Dragon World it had a kid with blue and red Hair in a Blue Jacket smiling with a bright sun behind him. In Darkness Dragon world there was a kid with in gray clothes with purple hair in a vortex, with a black dragon that seems to have a black hole cutting its body half behind him. Star Dragon world was a boy with blue hair holding a laser sword and a green dragon with a laser like blade sticking out of its head behind him. "So that's what the original Kyoya Looked like?" Star gazer asked pointing at another Image "Yes that is the original, and behind him is our target. Memorize what he looks like well Mercury." Kyoya said smiling. "Azi Dahaka..." Mercury said. "Attention Students. This is Head Mistress Twilight Sparkle Speaking. Will All Staff and Students please head to in an orderly fashion to Battle Arena 'A' For the Exhibition match of Mercurial Fall and Atlas." "Well that's your cue Every creature pick a seat and get comfy, the show is about to begin. Mercurial Follow me so I can lead you to the waiting room before the fight begins." Discord explained leading him away. Spike turned to Shadow as other students began to fill in. "You've been awfully quiet Shadow are you ok?" Spike's voice was filled with concern. "Watch the match and pay attention, Spike. This is not a simple match and I am ok... I just have been worried... Spike You and I will talk more about it later ok?" Shadow gave Spike a small smile before turning their attention back to the match. Featherweight was circling the Arena with Takosuke. "Welcome Everyone to first Exhibition Match of the School Year. I am Featherweight with my Buddy Takosuke Hear to report in directly to Ponyville. Taking Center Stage Now are our Head Masters of The EBFA. Princess Twilight Sparkle and Prince Blue Blood!" The pair zoomed up to to the two. "Do you have anything to say about this match-chu?" Takosuke asked. "I believe this will be a great match to show our students in regards to Determination and perseverance, I do hope the fighters as a whole will be able to reconcile and show true bonds however." Twilight explained. "This is simply to show the students the power of the top students and what it means, takes, and requires to be the top fighters at this academy. As such I am Sanctioning the 2 players as those who have already qualified in the Round Robin style prelims. This will kick off the qualifying rounds. However matches are to be filled out in forms, first to faculty and then the challenged. Remember your team must defeat atleast 1 faculty member of your Homeroom teachers choice." Blue blood explained. "Hear that every Creature?!" Featherweight called out. When the crowd started cheering the two combatants rose from the ground to their positions. "I'll give you one last chance, Cloud for Brains. Surrender now, and I may be willing to forgive you if you leave the academy." Atlas challenged. "Sorry but I'm not allowed to leave until I learn everyone's buddy monster. And besides... You've already forced my hooves." Mercurial Challenged. "So be it, In life those with power rule the world, Behold as in Death this continues, Lumenize Harrowing Hollows!" Atlas Declared His deck case becoming a crown upon his head. "In effort to change the worlds fate, one must be willing to make sacrifices. Dark Lumenize Disaster Company." Mercurial Fall declared the armor pauldron appearing on his shoulder. The field began to form." "Ready Every Creature?" Twilight declared as the entire arena cried out Buddy Fight in response. "I fight for Darkness Dragon World." Atlas said Smugly. "Only those with true power dare to walk this world. "I fight for Dungeon world." Mercurial said. "Turn Begins for Mercurial Fall." The announcer said. "Right Draw and Charge and Draw." He said with a smile. "Lets start the game off Simple First I call to the Center Self-proclaimed Healing Alchemist, Kabala." "Even the Villains Must Be BEAUTIFUL!" The Bipedal said striking a pose. "Shall I make you something Special Mercury?" "But of course Kabala Take all you need." Mercury said with a smile as his health dropped to 2 suddenly, before he mixed a few potions and threw a small Vial at the deck. making a Card appear into his hand. "Thanks This will do wonders!" "Weakening yourself already? you must be a glutton for punishment then." Atlas Declared. "Next I call Black Dragon Priest, Gremlin To the left. Take all you need to perfect it!" Mercury said as a bipedal that appeared dressed in black dragon scales appeared. "Wait a second That's a Darkness Dragon World Card! JUDGE!!" Atlas cried pointing at the red headed bipedal. "I am a dual world card fool. Darkness Dragon and Dungeon. Now... Sacrifice 3 cards from your deck Mercury." Three cards flew and slowly faded. "That makes 2 for the objective. Now take your power." He pointed his dragons eye staff to gauge before he was enveloped in a dark aura and a new gauge appeared. "Next I cast Dangerous Fuse! This is the card you want buddy!" A picture of another bipedal was formed. before it faded and replaced by the backs of 2 cards. "Now left or right?" "RIght!" Atlas said without hesitation. It revealed to be the same card. "Great I get to add both to my hand then!" Mercury said as both cards descended to it. "Now I call Demon Lord's Fang, Rouga to the Right!." "In battle only Strength is measured!" He declared in a howl. "Finally I pay gauge and equip a special Weapon. I equip Purgatory Demonic Swordsman's Armor!" once the gauge shattered 3 pieces of Black Armor shot from the Drop zone covering his right Fore hoof and chest as a Sword shifted on the bracer. "Now Rouga Attack The fighter!" "I'll show you why they call me the Demon Lord's Fang!" Rouga Declared as He slashed through Atlas with a large Dual Headed Silver, red and Black Battle Axe. Dealing 3 damage as Atlas's Life dropped to 3. "Wait what?! How did my life drop so much?!" "That would Rouga's Skill When he attacks as long as there is another disaster attribute on the field he can gain 2 critical." Gremlin explained. "That's All for me then guys." Mercurial Said. "The Move ends, Atlas Turn Begins." the announcer declared. "Fine then if thats the way it is I draw and Charge and Draw. I'll call first Black Dragon, Death Hang to the center and then Call Bone Labor, Au Darkth To the right. I enter Battle phase and Activate Au Darkths Effect, Target Rouga!" "Yes Master." The Skeletal Creature held up it Marrionette controls as Strings attatched to Rouga. "Behold the first betrayal." It whispered. "Sir..." Rouga Strained as he fought back "I'm Going to attack you!" he declared as he launched forward with his spear. "That is fine Rouga. Strike as you will But release your Aura!" Mercury Declared. A green haze surrounded Mercury as his health increased by 2 before dropping by 1 from the attack. "I'm sorry sir, It wont happen again." Rouga bowed at mercury before jumping back into position. "Your Probably Wandering how I gained life, its another option of Rouga's Abilities. Deal more damage or gain more life as he attacks." "Grrr Death Hang Attack the Center!" Atlas Declared The black dragon shrieking in rage before it and chomped down on Kabala. "That will be the end of my move." "The Move ends, Mercurial Fall's Turn begins." "Right Draw and Charge and Draw. First I'll Call to the Left Demon Lord's Arms, Sofia." Gremlin's destruction reformed onto Mercury as the left fore hooves' Bracers. "Analysis Death deck, Based on combination of Gate and Bone." Sofia Said. "Threat Level? Weak." "Then I call Security Chief, Shido To the center." mercury said. "Behold the strongest of the Disaster company, It is I Shido!" "If your so Strong Carry out his orders." Rouga growled. "Shido Attack the fighter!" Mercury Declared. "Ye-yes Sir! I'll Sneak right over!" Shido Disappeared into his shadow and it shot forward to appear behind atlas. "I cast Black Dragon Shield" A giant Black Dragon Face appeared as it bit the end of the Scythe Shido was about to Swing before throwing it back to the other side. "Did you think I was just going to let that happen?" Atlas Challenged as his health rose back up to 8. "Sofia Au Darkth!" Mercury Ordered. "Right." She held up her hands as 2 magic circles appeared before beams of magic shot towards Au Darkth. "I pay one gauge and Cast Apocalypse Death Shield shield to nullify the attack!" Atlas ordered A giant crowned Skull appearing now before au Darkth absorbing the attack. "Attack Failed." Sofia Commented. "Rouga Go extract Vengeance." Mecury said. "With Pleasure!" Rouga said charging Au Darkth. A green Haze filled the arena as Mercurial's Health increased by 2 again to a total of 11. Skewering and shattering Au Darkth on his Spear he turned and pointed his spear at Atlas. "If this all you are capable of I suggest Surrendering and to quit wasting our time." "Next I'll Attack Death Hang!" Mercury said As he flew around the stage before striking down Death Hang with the sword "BEcause of Item's ability I can attack even if I have disaster attribute card in my center." "The move ends. Atlas turn Begins." "Draw and charge and Draw. Now I cast Death Damage! Destroy your Center!" A being made of bones with an ethereal scythe appeared behind shido and sliced him to pieces. Said pieces flew to appear onto Mercury as another piece of armor. "And Now for the Star of the Show to make his Grand Entrance Gate Guider, Gallows "Gestus" Appear before them and make them tremble in fear!" Atlas Laughed in triumph as a Small naga Like creature made of Bones and Barbed Wire appeared. "I shall guide you to the after life." Gallows Declared. "Next I pay 2 gauge and Evolve Gallows by destroying him, turning him into Composite Black Dragon, Gallows Karn." The bone naga shattered before more bones and metal appeared into a giant Naga with a blade for an arm and claws of steel on the other hand. "I am the ultimate culmination of Death, And you will BOW!" "Now I cast Absolute Attack So don't even think about trying to counter this! Go Gallows Attack The fighter And wipe out his monsters." Karn Shot foward thrusting his sword. "Sofia!" Mercury said before the sword made contact. Dropping his health by 3 putting him at 8. "Don't Worry. We are fine." Sofia Said from inside a magic bubble with runes. "Are you well Master?" Rouga Asked. "I'll Live." "H-HOW!" "Sofia Skill protects the left and Right zones from spells and effects if they are star's or disaster attribute cards." Rouga Explained. "The Turn Ends, Mercurial Fall's Turn Begins" "Mercury." Kyoya began "Do you hear the music?" His arms were starting to shift like he was conducting a song of pure Elegance. "Yes Time to end this. I draw and Charge and Draw. I pay 3 gauge, sacrifice Sofia and Rouga and Buddy Call to the center." "For the will Of our Master." Rouga said as he shattered. "Analysis You lose." Sofia stated at Atlas as she shattered their remains and the remains of one of the gauge shot foward to complete the armor with Helmet and Wing blades. "It was enteraining while it lasted so now let us show you the meaning of true strength." "My armor gains 1000 power and defense for each different disaster in the drop. And if there are 7 or more I gain 2 critical." A dark aura began to surround Mercury. "Currently there are 8 so I have 9k power and Defense and 3 critical." "I'll allow you to deliver the final blow since he slighted you." Kyoya said calmly as he raised his sword and struck down karn in a single Swipe. "Now my ability activates when I attack and there are 7 or more different Disaster attribute cards in the drop zone I deal 7 damage directly to the fighter. Behold Disaster Star fall." 7 black stars appeared above Kyoya and slammed into Atlas Dropping his health down to 2. "This.. This can't be happening... I am Supposed to be The STrongest!" Atlas Cried as Mercury Charged at then dove around in the sky striking and impaling the sword from behind into his back, Before he leaned forward and spoke. "Let me tell you something My father taught me, There is always Someone stronger." Mercury Said as Atlas's health dropped to 0. "Game Over, Winner Mercurial Fall." The field Faded away as Mercurial Flew back to his position. > Counter > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It has been Three weeks since the fight between Atlas and Mercurial Fall. The Qualification rounds for all the teams have begun. Allies and Enemies have been forged, Rivalries born. 18 Teams remain with our hero not among any of them. Most importantly of all Spike Sol Drake Being put into an Interesting Position. "So it is at Yes or No Runt?" Arid Asks Spike. "I'm Sorry I'm lost right now can someone explain whats going on again?" Spike Looks at an annoyed Arid, a bored Star Gazer, and seemingly all too happy Mercury. "Ok let me put this, this way. Because I have no interest in fighting competitively, I mean honestly Why would i wanna risk harm to my cute little fairies, Mercury and Arid have been wanting to find someone who can work with them. But Because of Arid's stupidity he was scaring everyone off who wanted Mercury by fighting them and just about OTK-ing them all. That's 'One Turn Kill' for your knowledge. And since we know that Mekarm got Recruited by the DDC. Diamond Dog Company Team. You're about our only option as we are your's. So will you do it?" Star Gazer asks him. "I promise it will be worth it Spike. Your destiny is waiting for you after all. And it would help you grow stronger. You and Shadow Both." Mercury said trying to convince. "On top of that you get the benefit of training with all of us. You will experience multiple decks and fighting strategies as well as criticisms to help you grow and get better." Star Gaze said while cleaning her hoof "So... You want me who currently has a 19% win-rate in all of my matches... To fight with you guys. Who are in the top 5 strongest players of our entire school of over 1,000 students and teachers?" Spike asked incredulously. "So you wanna do it or not... Your guaranteed to be in the top 8. Well then little hatchling what's it going to be?" Arid goaded. Spike looked down at his shadow where his buddy monster was currently looking as he thought for a few a minutes. "I... I'll do it. I'll be your third member." Spike said nodding his head resolutely. "My My My Spike, you're joining a dangerous group, but one truly worth if even only for the experience." Discord said from the Window plane In mosaic form. " I'll be sure to let everyone know of you're teams entry, So what are you going to be called?" "I saw we call ourselves Team Guillotine!" Arid said with a Fang Filled Smile. "How about Final Destiny?" Mercury offered. "Brother that sounds horribly edgy..." Star Gazer Groaned. "How about Burning Heart?" Spike offered. "Hmmm Burning because of the 2 fire breathers. and heart because of 2 of us that actually get into their emotions fully? I like it." Arid said happily. "I approve. IT kinda sounds romantic like a burning heart of passion." Star Gaze said. "Fitting as we will be fighting with all we can in our hearts, I can't wait to see the blood really begin to boil within us all Spike." Mercurial said. "And since both Arid and Mecurial fall have their previous wins adding into the group you are hereby qualified for the Knockout rounds. Congratulations Team Burning Heart. Now who is the team captain?" Discord inquired. "That would be the only pony." Arid said. "He is the strongest." Spike agreed. "But it should be the one with the most potential." Mercury offered. "He's a whelp!" Arid Countered. "And I can't guarantee any wins." "Spike it is." Discord said as he sent the registration to Twilight via flying pig. "Good luck~." He laughed as swirled into himself before going into Yamigedo's mouth the little guy disappearing away. "So what now?" Spike asked confused. Sighing deeply Star Gazer sighed before counting out loud. "3....2.....1" She said before the announcement sound was made. "ATTENTION GREETINGS AND ENCHANTEE. Students, Professor Discord here with some exciting news. A new Team has been made and approved Going by the Name Burning Heart. Comprising of 2 Dragons and a Thestral. Oohoohoo, The team is consisting of the Black Dragon Arid Drake, The purple Drake Spike Sol Drake, And The current "strongest" Mercurial fall. They are currently located in their classroom located on the 3rd floor. The one that has a storm cloud on the door? Good Luck~." Discords voice was cut off as the P.A. system turned off. The P.A. System Turned back on as new voice began speaking. "Attention Students the qualifiers are now switched to the full Knockout Rounds and no more teams may be made. Good luck and have fun! remember as of this moment anyone and I mean anyone of the the other teams can challenge you to a fight at any point. All challenges must be accepted or forfeit elimination from the tournament. Good luck to all of you." Blue Bloods voice resounded. Immediately a stampede of student made their way to team burning heart. with the first challenge being made from a kunai thrown at spike Caught by arid. Written on a piece of paper was a declaration of the challenge from Team Ninja. > Knock Out Round | Ninja Vs Burning Heart Round 1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Lets get this over with already, They are serving Slimjims in the Galley for dinner and I'm Hungry." Arid Argued "Lumenize, Executioner's Destruction!" He declared as his case shifted to its scythe form. "And since it's some no body I'm not even gonna use my buddy this fight." "Your distraction shall be your downfall, nin. I am the great Kirin of the east, Dienzo, Nin. And you shall fall by my blades. Lumenize Fallen Ninja arts Demon gate." His Case turned into a Kunai. "Dienzo has the first turn." The announcer said. as the field was set up. "Very well nin. Draw, Charge and Draw. I set Return to the underword. Then I call to the Center, Blood Knife, Kimensai. Now Kimensai Attack the fighter Directly!" A demonic looking samurai appears in flurry of Wilted Petals before dashing forward and Striking at Arid. With an Unimpressed Gaze Arid watched as his health dropped to 6. "My mission is done." Kimensai Stated before shattering. "So thats your big plan? Attack me cards with cards that die in one turn? Real SMart." "The move ends Arid Turn begin." "Draw and Charge Draw. I pay one gauge to equip purgatory, Silva Gibson And activate its ability." He said as a gauge disspaeared and a card from his deck faded from existence. and drawing a card. "Next I call treasure Jailor, SonderDach. And his ability activates. " "Sacrifice your payment to the dragons Hoard." The top 3 cards were ripped from Arid's deck and sent to the drop. "Next I pay 3 gauge and sacrifice Sonderdach to call to the center, Lord of the Searing Executions, GagalGarios." The mighty Black dragon unleashes a vicious roar as 5 more are destroyed from Arid's Deck. "Now since a total of 15 plus cards are in the drop. My warden Gains a critical and penetrate ontop of his natural double attack. Now just as added insurance, I call 2 land mine Jailer, Izmain. Now Gagalgarios Show him why your incharge." THe black dragon Breathed a raging purple flame. "Counter Cast, Demon Way, KiriBusuma I refuse to take that much damage! Nin!" He said as he was engulfed in mist and his health drop to 9. "Gagalgarios Try that again, i dont think the ninja understood what I was saying." Arid said more annoyed as if finding a fly in his soup. The black dragon unleashed another wave of flames that tore through the kirin forcing his health to drop violently to 6."Landmine on my left follow it up. then the one my right finish it up." Two soft explosion happened one after another forcing his health to drop to 4. "The move ends. Dienzo Turn begins." "Draw and Charge and Draw. I activate the ability of my set card allowing me to ressurect bloody knife Kimensai. Next I buddy call to the left, Defiant, Sabifukuro." "Take this gift as we stand in defiance against one of the alleged strongest." Sabifukuro said as granted a health point o Dienzo. "Now let us fill the graves together." "Now Sabifukuro Kimensai destroy his center." The Two skulls move forward and behead the behemoth of a monster causing an explosion as life link rips away 2 of Arid's health. Followed by Kimensai appearing above and striking downwards with his blade for another 2 damage leaving him at 2 health. "My mission is done once again." Kimensai states as he dissappears. "Upon the destruction of Kimensai I cast Demon way, Geppakugiri. Now I sacrifice one of your landmines to go with kimensai the landmine on the right." "The move ends, Arid's turn begins." "Draw, charge and draw. I cast Damiens Decisions. to gain 1 gauge and draw 1 card at the cost of 2 from my deck. Then I cast Banquet of the Unrighteous. I look up to 3 cards add 1 monster and drop the rest. He said as his hand and gauge grew. I call to the right headhunter jailer sai. Now Landmine will attack the fighter for 1!" A small explosion goes reducing Deinzo's health to 4. "Now headhunter seek your new trophy. With Sai's Ability we both mill a card." The monster swung both of its scythes and dealt an additional damage to Dienzo Dropping his health to 3. "And Now I will make a strike!" Arid said as he flapped his wings charging at Dienzo. "I cast Demon way, Oborogenbu To nullify the attack." "The move ends Dienzo Turn begins." "Draw, I call my buddy again to the left to activate his skill once more. Next I pay 3 gauge and call to the center, Evil Sins, https://buddyfight.fandom.com/wiki/Evil_Sins%2C_Shumokuzame." "As I walk the path between life and death so do your fallen." "With his ability I add Demon way OboroGenbu to my hand and send 3 cards from your drop to the bottom of your deck so lets send the 3 gates. DO you see now the futility before you. You cannot hope to climb over this mountain. With a montster with 7 thousand defense and a nullify in my hand you have no chance of harming. me. Next I cast Demon way, Arakuyo to draw 3 cards. Now Go Shumokaze Attack the fighter!" "I pay one gauge to cast Helles Shield." The shark samurai's Blade Strikes the shield stopping the attack before it explodes and rips through Dienzo lowering the health by 1. "The turn ends Arid's turn begins." "Draw and Charge and Draw." Arid began before smirking triumphantly. " This is the end of the line. I sacrifice Sai And pay 3 gauge to call to the right, Hellfire execution, Gagalgarios. so that defense you were so proud of is useless. Once he attacks 2 damage is dealt by his effect. Unless you can stop that twice and the attacks you have no chance. Now SHow him why we are the ones who sit atop the kingdom of Cards Attack the Center Gagalgarios." "Suffer the prisoners punishment Hellfire Torment!" Gagalgarios said as he launched his attack at shumokaze destroying the center monster and creating a wave of fire that tore through Dienzo Dropping his health to 0. "Game Over, Winner Arid Drake." The announcer Said. "Next Fighters Take you place." > Knock Out Round | Ninja Vs Burning Heart Round 2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike watched carefully as his opponent took her place. The kirin bowed in respect of her opponent before taking her stance. "I am Maiden of the clouds who shall rain down despair upon all who face my clan, Shizu. Lumenize Great castle Defense." Her case turned into a telescope. "I am her buddy, Sky Ninja, Yamigarasu." "I am Spike Sol Drake, Standing in the Dark I will use the Shadows to guarantee the Sun will rise! Lumenize! Shadows of the Sun!" He declared taking on his normal look with clothes and rapier in hand. "I am his buddy Shadow Dragon." "Spike Drake Has the first move." "Draw and charge and draw I call my buddy Shadow Dragon to the center." As shadow entered the field he gave a weak roar that added 1 extra health to Spike. "I pay one gauge to activate his skill sending the top two cards of my deck to the drop." 2 cards floated and shattered revealing they were shadow dragons. "since 2 shadow dragons were milled i get to call both of them to the left and right. Next I'll attack with the shadow dragon in my center. The Shadow in the center darted forth and headbutted the kirin dealing 1 damage. "The move ends Shizu's Turn begins." "Draw and charge and draw." Taking a deep breath. "I Play Clear Serenity to add 3 cards from my deck to the gauge. Next I call to the left Sniping ninja Yoichi and buddy call sky ninja Yamigarasu to the center. Next I set Secret Scrolls" As Yamigarasu descended he turned. "For the maiden in the clouds i promise you Victory!" He declared granting her health back to 10. "Sniping Ninja Take aim and strike down he who harmed me." Shizu Declared. "Yes your highness." It said before taking aim and firing a strong blue lazer that wiped out the shadow dragon in the center. "Yamigarasu Attack his left position shadow." "Nothing escapes my sight!" HE said flying high above before firing down onto the shadow Dragon. "the move ends, Spike Drake's turn." "Draw charge and draw I cast Dragonic Shadow Shuffle" Three cards jumped from the rapier one shot to the gauge one filled someones shadow and the other into his hand. "Next I call another Shadow Dragon, I pay one gauge to activate his skill Call for friends." 2 cards shattered and none returned. "Darn no one came... I call to the left a shadow dragon. And attack your center with it and my left." "Target is in my sights." Yoichi declared firing at Spike making him lose a life. "Cast Ninja Arts, Snake gaze rest your center." Her eyes became menacing suddenly as her life dropped by one forcing the shadow dragon in the center to quiver in fear "That weakness will not be escaped from!" Yamigarasu stated as he fired a shot just before the 2 shadow dragons ganged up on him. Lowering spikes health to match his opponent at 9. "The move ends Shizu's turn begins." "Draw and charge and draw. I activate the ability of Secret scrolls I pay one gauge and add one Ninja Arts Card from deck to hand. Next Yoichi Attack His center!" "My sight is unfailing." Another shot and another shadow dragon was gone. "The move ends Spike Drakes turn begins." "Stand and Draw, Charge and Draw, Perfect I cast Dragonic Shadow Gauge!" 5 shadows jumped from his sword and 3 gauge appeared. " Call Another Shadow dragon to the center. I pay 1 gauge to call for friends." the top card milled 2 times over and no new cards were called. "Next I pay 4 gauge and evolve the center Shadow Dragon. Into Anatta Overshadow Dragon!" All the shadows began to amass together turning into a large dragon with amethyst like armor. "I am one and all, nothing and everything. A shadow with form yet formless!" The large Dragon Roared. "with his ability all shadows dragons gain 7 thousand power and 7 critical. Lets go to the attack Phase. Shadow Dragon on the left will attack you for 8." "Cast Art of Shadow Stitching! Nullifying the attack!." As soon as the dragon began its attack purple ribbons with blades at the edges wrapped the shadow up before pinning it to the left position. "Fine then Anatta Will attack you!" "I was waiting for that I cast Ninja Arts, Half Kill! Cancelling the attack and sending all the cards in your soul to the drop!" "AGH!" Anatta Cried in pain as its soul dropped and the other shadows power drained out of them. "I end." Spike said sullenly. "the turn ends Shizu's Turn begins." "Draw and charge and draw, Pay 1 gauge to add another ninja arts card to my hand. Then i Call another Yoichi to the right. Who shall then attack your center." The shot fired caused the armor to turn to shrapnel hitting spike for 3 damage dropping him to 6. "And another attack from another Yoichi." "Should've thought better than to challenge our maiden kid." The Yoichi fired and dealt another damage to Spike dropping him to 5." "The turn ends Spike's turn begins." "Draw...." "Have you lost the will to continue?" Shizu asks her opponent. "As you can tell with the way the match is going your deck does not stand a chance." "Its over the kid is toast." Spike heard Arid speaking from the teams section. "I don't get why your so obsessed with him Mercurial. "What happened to that rebellious spirit i once felt in you Spike? Are you just going to roll over and die from an attack like that?" The shadows spoke. "Never again..."Gritting his teeth Spikes eyes went slightly Draconian. "If I am weak now I will get stronger! I shall never allow myself to fall so far behind my opponent that I lose sight of what needs to be done." Darkness began shift over Spike and drown him out. Suddenly that same darkness flowed into his core deck case. "Charge and Draw!" The card spike drew dripped in seething darkness as if it was newly made from the rage and despair in his heart. "I call to the center another Shadow dragon! Next I pay 3 gauge and fuse 3 shadows from the drop into the center Shadow dragon to create, Limitless Dragon, Emperor Shadow Dragon. A new dragon covered in an armor of diamonds and Silver metal flowed forth from it as bipedal dragon with claw like wings stood before spike in his center position. "I am the final emperor of the Dark. The true ruler of shadows! Give in to despair and be brought into my light!" The dragon spoke. "I enter battle phase!" Spike declared. "Shadows amass with more shadows." 2 shadows flew into The Emperor and his dark aura spread to the other shadow dragons. Their power rising their defense rising and all of them gaining a critical "I attack your left with the emperor!" Spike declared. "Cast Ninja arts, Half Kill! Loose all your soul and nullify the attack!" Shizu declared." "Fine he stands with double attack! The shadow dragon on my left will attack your left!" Spike ordered the shadow dragon gave an angry roar as it sent for a spike of shadows penetrating Yoichi. "Double attack allows it to stand and attack again this time the right!" "Wait it gained double attack as well?! Doesn't matter cast! Ninja Arts, Steel Ball. GIving my Yoichi 3 thouseand power and defense and counterattack!" The Shadow dragon went to to strike that Yoichi but was interrupted by a steel ball striking the ground before it. "Unfortunately your monster has more defense than mine has attack." "Then my other shadow dragon will attack it." "I wont let you get away with this!" Yoichi said firing at spike. Hi health dropping to 3. "And I wont let him be destroyed! Another steel Ball!" "Fine Shadow dragon strike him again!" "You will pay for this!" Yoichi declared Shaving spikes health down to 2 as it was destroyed. "Emperor Attack her directly." "With glee my buddy... Feel The Emperors WRATH!" black claw of shadows shot downwards shattering Shizu's health making it drop to 5." "The move ends, Shizu's turn begins." "Draw charge and draw I pay one gauge to activate the secret scrolls.. I call to the center, Fire Streak ninja, Gokuen Now Gokuen Attack his center!" "Shadows Amass with more Shadows!" 2 shadows got absorbed into his soul as all the shadow dragons power and defense increased again. "During my turn that happens?" Shizu asked in shock. "it happens every battle phase." Spike said coolly his eyes sharper than before. "The move ends. Spike Drake's turn begins. "Draw charge and draw. I enter battle phase." "Shadows amass with more shadows. As darkness grows ever more." 2 more shadows got absorbed into the Emperor as his dark aura spread once again granting all shadow dragons power. "Shadow dragons Link attack the center." the 2 shadows laid down a volley of shadow spikes destroying Gokuen before even more shot through to shizu. "They have penetrate as well?!" she cried in fear." "They both stand triple link attack." spike ordered aiming his sword "I Cast Art of Shadow Stitching nullifying the attack and pinning The emperor!" Shizu said in desperation. purple ribbons wrapping around all of them and binding The Emperor to the ground until the end of the turn. "the turn ends, Shizu's turn begins." "Draw charge and draw... I pay 2 gauge and set Dark Ninja Technique, Poison Mist Formation. and end my turn." "Draw and charge and draw. I equip Shadow Scale Sword, DragoShadow And enter Battle phase." "The final shadows amass together." Emperor Declared spreading his dark power to the shadow dragons and into the sword. "I should thank you properly Because you helped me reach this point after all. So be honored as I strike you down myself." His buddy gift activating giving him a pair of black wings of shadows allowing him to fly fast appearing behind Shizu before striking her at the neck with the shadow sword dealing 2 damage. "Game over Winner Spike Sol Drake." > Obligatory Training Chapter | Original Idea Do not Steal > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After the Knockout fight Stargazer showed up in front of the hoard of challengers and Team burning Heart Before the next declaration was made. "WAIT!!" She screamed getting everyone's attention. "I need to say one thing Before y'all go ham fighting my brothers team." She said cautiously making sure everyone's attention was on her. "SMOKE BOMB!" she yelled as she threw down one triggering the schools smoke alarms and sprinkler system creating enough confusion to allow team Burning Heart to escape with ease. ***** 4 hours later ***** "Ok I think we are Clear." Mercurial said as they watched the campus grounds. "OK spill it runt, where did you get that new card from?" Arid accused Spike grabbing him by the collar. "I don't know! Honest! I was just getting sick and tired of losing all the time and being made a Joke out of. I got so angry and i just... I Don't know! The last couple rounds of that fight are a blur to me." Spike said in panic At this arid dropped him making Spike fall on his butt. "So you made a new card in your deck from despair..." Stargazer said in awe. "My brother was right, you are an interesting one. Well that only means one thing." "Whats that?" Spike questioned worried. "Training time." Mercurial said gleefully. "We need to make sure you can use that card properly. Its strong, but will not be the answer to every situation. And you need some emergency defense cards for the 'Just in case situation.'" Arid said as he held spikes deck case throwing it towards Mercurial. "Curry Get to work you know how to build almost every deck." "HEY THAT'S MINE!" Spike yelled trying to get the deck only to be stopped by Star Gazer. "Yes it is, but its unbalanced. Curry has made tons of decks let him work his magic and if you still don't like it then you can edit it yourself. But for now try it out? Please?" Star looked at him pleadingly. "Fine... But I hold the right to be angry about it." He said scowling. "That's fair." Mercurial said as he gave the deck back to Spike. "I'm done for now anyways, I had to only tweak it a bit. Your deck will consist of Size 3 and 0 monsters from this point forward. and I've added 2 types shield cards 4 of a fire dragon shield, and 2 green dragon shield. The fire dragon will help you go through your deck more and can save you against impacts, the green dragon shield is if your front line gets taken down. Now you need to practice, sis would you mind assisting?" "of course I am your a-Sis-stant after all." She said jokingly. The two proceeded to fight. *after the first round* "No you need to watch out for penetrate cards and use the shield then. Do it again." Arid said forcefully. *second round* "Close but you need you to make sure to look at your opponnents hand when you go for the killing attack. sometimes its better to get rid of monsters than to attack the fighter. Go again." Mercury explained. *third Round* "No no that situation called for Inexhaustible not Anatta, you saved yourself for a turn using the impact but it also ruined the strategy you had. Lets go again." Star chided. *fourth round* "ARGH WHATS THE POINT OF LEARNING HOW TO MASTER A SINGLE CARD!" Spike growled in frustration. "Its not like I'll need to rely on it!"Spike ranted Arid and Mercury looked at each other before nodding. "Spike take a break, the purpose of this was to show you that you need to learn your deck and your opponents deck as you fight." Arid said. "How about as an example Both Arid and myself will fight and you watch how we do things. I'll even use a different deck from my disaster to help demonstrate." Mercury said. "I guess that'll help?" spike said confused. "We also won't be holding back like normally, I'll be using cards I'm not fully used to yet for my executioners." Arid explained. "Right and I'll be using a curse dragon deck. So lets begin." Mercurial said. "Spike play close attention, the both of them will not be holding back during this fight." Star gazer said as she sat down to watch. "Wait they've been holding back?" he asked incredulously "Greatly. You see Big Bro doesn't put a limiter on himself his limiter is his connection with the deck. Certain decks he attunes to stronger than others. Kyoya and Myself both believe that his buddy monster will be a Darkness Dragon World Monster But Darkness Dragon World is vast and life there is hard to find thats willing to talk. "Arid on the other hoof isn't using several of his strongest cards because he doesn't trust himself to utilize it properly. One of which is an insanely powerful monster that is equivalent to an impact card." Star explained as the field changed before them. A black dragon in white armor appeared before them on Mercurial's side. While the normal scythe that was wielded by Arid was engulfed in black flames along with arid releasing a strong aura of oppression. "This feeling... Its suffocating..." Spike said trying to breathe in deeply. "This is Arid's natural feeling when he really gets into a fight." Star explained before suddenly all of it was washed away. Replaced by a feeling of nothingness and emptiness. "This is Big Bro's Aura when he begins to really connect with a deck. The emptier it feels the stronger the deck. Close your eyes and feel for what grounds you." She said seeing Spike being on the verge of passing out. Opening her saddle bag she takes out a few leaves and puts some in her mouth and in spikes mouth the two begin chewing as spike realizes its Mint leaves to help him breath. "Arid Drake vs Mercurial fall Match begin. Arid Drake has the first move." "Draw and Charge and Draw. Next I set Gate of ruins Greed and Gate of Verdict Judgement!." The two Gates appearing on either side of Arid behind him. "Next I activate Judgement to mill 2 and gauge one." 2 chains lashed out and a new gauge spawned from the gate. Next I call to the right Vampire Shura." "Kekeke... In accordance to our blood pact, your soul now belongs to me!." Shura said as bats erupted and struck both decks destroying the top 3 cards. Arid gaining a guage. "Next I pay 2 gauge to call my buddy to the center! SOULVAAG SHOW HIM WE MEAN BUSINESS THIS TIME!" Arid roared as the earth trembled. "I am the epitome of desolation!" a black wave of flames raced across the field destroying 2 cards from both decks and damaging Mercurial dropping him to 9. "Next I activate the effect of greed in my drop casting it by paying a gauge." The gate of greed seemed to grow in strength as it began to glow ominously. "Next I pay 3 gauge to activate the second of Judgement and I add my Shield to my hand. NOW SOULVAAG Drop Him down!" Immediately the chains of the Gate of greed shot foward wrapping around Soulvaag as the flames engulfed Mercurial dealing a total of 4 damage, putting him down to 5. "End of Turn, Mercurial Falls turn begins. " "Draw and charge and draw. I set Sentence of Curse." Strange white and gold armor was donned upon Mercurial As Arids deck and flag began to glow an ominous white. "I cast Shadow Crusader reducing the first set of damage I take this turn by three." 3 more chains struck Arids deck destroying 3 more cards. "I equip Black Dragon sword GeilBlade." A strange sword looking like the one his buddy held appeared before Mercurial fall who grabbed it staking it into the ground and using it like minotaur would use a cane both hooves on it. "Next I call to the center Black Dragon Knight, Lzam." "Which do you wish an Ally or Spell?" the Black dragon with a shield and lance asked its lord. "Give me an ally." Mercurial Responded Discarding a card. a new card was forged from the destroyed one and added to his hand. "Now I call to the left Assault of silver moon, Geil Luna." A Black dragon in Golden trimmed white armor appeared. "For you my leige!" It declared throwing a card into his hand. "Next I set Curse Field! Then By paying one gauge I activate the effect of my sword. I force the top card of your deck under your flag." He said as both the field and his sword glowed an ominous red. Suddenly a card flew from Arid's Deck into the center of his flag turning a portion of it to stone. At the same time A new card rose from the field into Mercurial's hand as well as his gauge. "Next I enter the battle phase and the effect of my curse field goes off I pay one gauge and call from the drop My buddy, Black Dragon Knight Geil." "You who has been afflicted by my curse Shall Fall this day!" The white armored Black Dragon Appeared as he rose from the earth before a lighting shock wave surged forth to destroy the gate of Judgement while Mercurial gained a point of life. "Now To begin my assault Geil Luna Attack Shura!" The golden Dragon flew fast to destroy the vampire piercing its heart with the black blade. "Now Geil Attack Soulvaag." "I cast Executioner Shield." The black dragon flew forward to strike as the shield stopped the attack and Arid gained 2 new gauge as well as fragment broke dropping him back to 5 health. "Next I cast Curse grip by destroy Geil!" A white energy flowed from Geil as he moved forward to strike down Arid's buddy. "Then I use Geil's Ability by paying 1 life to put another card into your flag." Geil's destruction stopped as it flowed into a card back into Mercurial's hoof. As another card flew turning another portion of the flag into stone. "Wait why didn't geil luna get destroyed by soulvaag's ability?" Questioned spike. "That's cause of curry's sword it protects his cards from destruction the moment he equipped it nothing on his field was allowed to be destroyed or returned to hand.." Star gazer answered. Spike turned and saw a wave of black Flames flowed forth but was met with a white Aura of a shield. "With that I end my turn. " mercurial fall says. "I start my turn." Arid Responds "I activate two abilities I gain 3 health due to Geil Luna. and the curse effect activates." Another card flies into the flag another portion turned to stone. The field began to glow again and Mercurial gains a gauge and draws a card. "I draw and charge and draw and cast Demon way, Blood Sucking Bird." Suddenly a ghostly monster appears and drains a health away and a gauge way from mercury and gives it to Arid. "Unfortunately I have to end my turn there." "Wait he doesn't have any monsters to call?" Spike asked confused. "its more than likely he doesn't have the requirements to call it yet." "Draw and Charge and draw. I call back to the center my buddy." "You who has been afflicted with my curse. FALL BEFORE Me!" Geil Said as shot a wave of black lightning at one of the gates of greed destroying it. "Next I pay one gauge and Use Geil blades effect and since you have at least 2 cards in your flags soul I draw a card!" Suddenly another portion of the flag turned to stone as 2 cards entered Mercury's hand and one card went to his gauge. "Next I cast Underration and since you have 4 cards in your flag i gain 2 life 2 gauge and add a curse dragon from my drop to hand." he was covered in a white aura as his health increased to 7 and from the ground 2 gauge and one more card was added. "Next I call another of my buddy to the right." "Once more fall before my curse!" The black dragon declared as it released another wave of lighting at the gate destroying it. "Your starting to piss me off with your curse Mercury. I'll Break you!" Arid Challenged "Just wait the game is over in 11 more cards I cast Curse, Destruction!" suddenly the Geil on his right went forward and destroyed 2 cards from Mercury's deck. "Damn it no luck... Oh well I pay one life and activate Geil's Ability." "Wait what happens in 10 more cards?" Spike asked as a card flew into Arids flag again. "The curse takes hold and Mercury wins." "Wait what?! Without landing a single attack Mercury intends to Win?!" Spike asked Incredulously as he saw how how the flag was. "Yeah its because of that white armor... The set spell Sentence of curse forces a win when there is at least 15 cards underneath the opponents flag and there is no real way to get rid of those soul cards." Star Gazer Explained. "It's funny even when a white Knight Mercury finds a way to be dark. "WIth That I end my turn and the ability of my curse takes place as well as Luna And my field." Mercury said calmly as his health went to 9 and he gained a gauge and drew a card while another card turned another portion of the flag to stone. "Fine Draw and charge and draw Next I activate the Landslide ability of my monster in the drop! I Call treasure Treasure jailer Sonderach by paying 1 gauge. And I pay another gauge to set my gate of greed from the drop." The mighty gates rose from the earth once again. As a massive Dragon clawed its way out from the ground. "Next I pay 3 gauge and offer Sonderach to the warden. I call to the center Hellfire Executioners Dragon Gagalgarios!" A wave of Hellish blue fire was released upon Sonderach as its scales changed and grew into the golden and blue Dragon. "Now i enter the Attack Phase. Go GAGAL- "I cast Scar Bind To rest your monster." Mercury interrupted. "Damn IT FINE YOUR MOVE!" Arid roared in anger. "Draw and charge and draw. Next I call to the right Another Geil Luna." Mercury said Another Golden Trimmed white armored black dragon appeared when spike noticed that all 4 of them had the same Sword. "For you, my lord." He said as a card flew into Mercury's hoof. "Thank you Geil Luna. Next I Pay one gauge and activate the ability of my item." another card flowing into Arid's Flag for a total of 7 cards as Mercury gained a gauge and 2 more cards from the item and field. "Next I destroy my buddy to cast Curse Grip to destroy your Gates of ruins greed and sent it into the flag." Suddenly the Gates turned black and white as it crumbled and flowed into the flag. "We are approaching the end game Arid 2 more turns is all it will take! Next I pay one gauge and call my buddy again." Once more black lighting flowed from the white armored black dragon this time strike gagalarios. With soulguard however it stayed on the field. "Now I enter attack phase Geil Luna Destroy his center monster." The one on the left made the move dashing forward and sidestepping claw attack before striking true. Gagalgarios was destroyed. "Final phase. I pay 2 gauge to set Curse Count, Then I do it Again. Now At the end of my turn you put 4 cards into your flags soul And as long as I have a Curse Dragon monster on my field I take one less damage times the amount of Curse Counts I have on my field! I end my turn." Five cards flew into the soul of the flag leaving only one small portion left not turned to stone as Mercurial gained 3 health and 1 cards from each of the Geil Luna's as well as another hand card and gauge from the Curse field set. "Draw and charge and Draw. I Set Gate of ruins Greed then I pay one gauge for another Landslide." A gate appeared along with the dragon from before erupting from the ground with gold and jewels coming with it. "I pay my last gauge and set another gate of greed from the Drop And enter attack phase." The gate glowed as it gain power and supplied Sonderach with more power. "I cast Scar Bind And rest all your cards." "Damn it... Thats game..." Arid said growling at himself angrily. Some flames escaping the sides of his grimacing mouth. "Draw and charge and draw. I end my turn." The last cards flew into Arid's flag petrifying it completely and Arid's side of the field begins to crumble apart so does his flag. "Game Over, Winner Mercurial Fall." Sometime during the fight people had seen the two fighting and a large crowd was drawn. Once the fight was over everything was silent until Clapping could be heard. Kyoya began to walk forward. "Magnificent as always my friend." He began. "Tell Me Black Dragon Knight, Geil... How do you view your compatibility with him?" Questioned Kyoya. "I will not deny the strength Mercurial Fall has." The white armored dragon began. "But unfortunately I would feel As if I am holding him back." He said turning turning his head away in shame. "And you My friend?" "Its a strong deck... and Geil is very capable but... you know my views on 'White Knights.'" Mercury said with extra venom. Geil seemed to flinch at that statement. "Of course I apologize if it caused insult but I felt it prudent to attempt this one as it followed your train of thought. I often forget you believe in the notion 'The king cannot expect his people to follow if he does not Lead.' Thank you for time Geil." Kyoya said sincerely his eyes glinting with a strange look. "If you evolve your capabilities further please feel free to approach us." "Of course, I shall inform other applicants about the vacancy and teh information i have attained. As for you Mercurial Fall. I wish you luck in finding your proper buddy and deck. I hope I can one day join you in your endeavors." Geil said before a dark gateaway appeared and the black Dragon of white armor took the deck from the offered hoof. "Thank you for the opportunity." he said before he departed. "So Spike?" Mercury began "Did you learn why its important to understand even a single cards full potential in your deck?" Spike who stared in awe at what just happened couldn't help but find himself at a loss for words. "Seems like he did... I'm still not strong enough to use my greed and He didn't even deem necessary to show himself to me..." Arid grinded his fangs as he turned towards the spectators. "So then Who want's a piece of us next!" Arid challenged them a bunch of them began glancing back and forth among each other. Spike stood up and joined the rest of his team. "If any of you want a shot at getting into the finals You have to be willing to take on all of US. And fighting with everything you got TO TAKE US DOWN!" Spike challenged as a flame was lit in his heart. Mercury could only smile at the Spunk Spike was showing off. "So Come at us Whenever you want!" A strong sense of pride an soft Aura of Determination was flaring from Spike as he drew his sword deck case. Multiple students began to equip their core decks showing their true forms. Shadow Appeared infront of Spike. "We will gladly fight each and everyone of you, But just be warned we won't be holding back against anyone who gets in our way." Mercury Proclaimed As his Pauldron appeared Kyoya Standing by his side. "And make no mistake if we find an opening." Arid started Pointing the curved blade of his scythe out to the crowd. "We will Tear into you for every ounce its worth." Soulvaag appearing just behind and left of Arid. "We Are Team Burning Heart! Now See if you can Overcome our Flames Of Passion!" They Said in unison before they started fighting back to back Challenges. > Final 8 | Declaration of War > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The next couple of weeks were filled with back to back fights For team Burning Heart. It help accellerate the process because it seemed every one wanted a piece of them Each member was assigned to fight an individual team for the knock out rounds with permissions granted by the teachers of the school. Reenforced by Prince Blue Blood who would send some of the better teams after them. But 1 by 1 their opponents fell. Spike began to get stronger as he fought but fatigue was not something to mess around with when it came to these 3. Fortunately with the support of Stargazer and a few of the other teachers they were able to find places to eat and sleep. All while Spike, Arid and Mercurial were actually getting along like friends with moments to spare for some O&O with Discord, Arid, Big Mac, Rainbow, Mercury and Star Gazer. One thing they learned was not to split the party and pull Star gazer away from her brother. Somewhere in the realm of Chaos Discord shuddered at the memory of the last game. "Everything ok Dissy?" Fluttershy asked worried. "Oh of course just some time you ponies have no idea how capable of chaos you can be." He said offhandedly. Fluttershy just tilted her head confused. "Do you mean pinkie?" "N-no i meant Mercurial's sister." "Aww isn't she just the sweetest she made fast friends with Mr. Bubbles." Flutteryshy coo'd. "yeah... Simply sweet as sugar that one heh." He said nervously for minute as he looked outside his window he thought he saw Star Gazer there fixing him with a glare wearing the clothes of her character. But after a blink she was gone. The following morning of the week after the training Everyone was told there were to be no more challenges that Day as an announcement must be made. Welcoming the small respite each student was in their home room, Spike was, Mercurial Arid and Stargazer were enjoying the respite they got by resting until a large gong like sound was heard and a magically transmitted screen appeared in the center of the Chalkboard. Suddenly the Insignia of the School academy was seen before a magic rune appeared and shattered it revealing Asmodai, Twilight Sparkle, Blue Blood, Starlight Glimmerand Feather weight with Takochu. "Greetings and welcome everyone to this wonderful morning Here at the Equestrian Buddyfight Academy." Twilight Sparkle said cheerfully. "Over the past few weeks you all have learned, Improved and grown as Buddyfighters and friends and that does us teachers and Councilors proud." Starlight added "That is not to say that you have all had your fair share of strife and conflict, as Necessity is the mother of invention, Conflict is Key for growth. Which is why we are all proud to say the Final 8 have been decided For our schools strongest fighters." Blue Blood Said with grace befitting a man's whose voice displays the highest amount of Self inflated ego. "But just because the Top fighters have been chosen for now doesnt mean something cant change later Now without a further ado lets introduce the top team! Feather weight and myself will provide a break down on each fighter and the basics of their decks." Asmodai said as the camera got a close up of the two. "That's right Asmodai Now lets get this review underway!" Featherweight cheered "Ranking at number one is Team Guillotine, Led by Atlas and his Buddy Gallows!" Asmodai introduced. The name appeared a group of 3 silhouettes the words being written in bones with a guillotine dropping behind it. "Following up with Brass Knuckles and his buddy Crimson Battler Drum Bunker Dragon." A Minotaur with his fist pounded into his hand grinned maliciously at the camera. "Finally its the Princess of Shadows, Silhouette Pirouette. And her buddy Silhouette Joe." Asmodai said as the light shown on a Young Unicorn who seemed to hold all the grace and elegance of Fleur De Lis. "Whats the word on this team Feather?" "Well Asmodai, It seems that after that crushing defeat That Atlas faced at the hands of Mercurial Fall He went on a binge training program with Gallows."Feather began the last moment of the fight where Mercury impaled him with the sword. "It was on this training binge where he met with Brass Knuckles. The two quickly grew to only want serious fights between each other from their strength. Silhouette caught their eye as she had expertly been fighting against Some of the other students. Growing bored this girl only accepted the fight from Atlas. She should've thought twice because that fight remains as the only official loss she has obtained." A scene played to show Shadow Karn Gallows wipe out her field and then Dive to hit the wide Eyed Unicorn for game. "Yikes this seems like their the top dogs." Asmodai commented. "With only one official loss on each their records they are the true leaders of this school." Featherweight said. "Atlas had this to say. In an interview." "Why its only natural that those below us will get crushed underfoot. We are the Elite." Atlas said as he drank some tea. His voice matching the same tones as Blue Blood. "Next team coming up in the roster is the Falling Crescent." The trio was zoomed out of to reveal a roster of 8 different groups before coming in on the next group. Asmodai said as another animation of Falling stars and letters came into place with the C from crescent coming from the moon. "Their leader is none other than local Luna Lover, Memento Mori." Leading Silhouette lit up to show a Hovering Bat Pony whose Hoof was reaching towards the sky. "At their request this team and most others have asked us to keep their buddy monsters quiet for shock factor. What we can say is that they use Star Dragon World." A flag unknown to spike appeared above him. "Next up is Leona, A feisty Feline of an Abyssinian who has thing for living life on the edge of Danger." The Danger World Flag showed up. "Finally is a Dragon who hates the heat and embraces the cold, its Gemini." A legend world flag appeared behind the light blue dragon. "The next team is The Diamond Dog Corporation." A few Dogs were scene Hauling carts of Gems as a few Large Gems Fell behind, another dog wearing a suit came up to them before biting through them like a chisel Rapidly to have it form a Large DDC. "Lead by The Lean Mean Fighting Machine That is Rex Diamantes." The silhouette faded to show a little Chiuaha of a dog. "Followed by his loyal muscles Masasayo Shido." Which looked to be a Neihpon Akita Dog mixed with a Pitbull. "And finally the spunky good boy that is Mekarm!" "The Worlds they use are respectively Danger World, Katana World, and Dungeon World." "Next up these Ladies may be Damsels but they are the ones causing distress, They are the Femme Fatales." Femme was made in curse with lipstick but the Fatal was Slashed and cut out to make the word with very Thorny Roses framing it like a border. "With the duo pinnacle of Earth pony Nobility, Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara, led by the Fearsome speed demon of the skies, and Predator of the weak, Gilda the Griffon." Asmodai Said as they lit up. "We actually have a special Message from Gilda griffon to one of the other teams members." Featherweight said as the interview began. "yeah I got something to say, i was told that there was some punk Dragon out here running the Searing Executioners flag, Well I'll just make this clear, We are declaring war on you, Cuz my flag is none other than the Divine Guardians So come at me little Lizard!" Arid stood up scraping his desk with his nails as he looked at the cocky smirk Gilda was giving him. "Next up" Featherweight began. "The young Six Prey, and their counter teams the Young Six predators." The two teams made up 1 whole banner one with hooves meeting claws. In a fist Bump. You know em you love 'em its Ocellus, Yona, and Sand bar on one side, and Gallus, Silverstream and Smolder on the other." the two teams debuted at the same time. "They are each using their own world, Sand bar with legend world, Yona with Hero World, Ocellus with Dungeon world, Smolder with Ancient world, Gallus with Danger world, and Silverstream Dragon world." "Next its the only full Changeling team The Hive." Asmodai said. As a look of the old hive was shown wtih Changelings flying too and from it. "With lead by spinneret, followed by her older brothers Raiden and Cliff.... I uh.. i actually don't have much on this group as they were very secretive about their decks... part of their rules was that they wouldn't let anyone tell the others their decks. "And that brings us to the underdogs." "Seeming coming out of nowhere, with two members who have not lost a single game yet." Featherweight commented. "Led by My number one assistant and little brother."Twilight called out. into the grop. "ITS TEAM BURNING HEART!" The letters pulsed like it was heart before erupting outwards and reforming on fire with a heart. Their silhouette showing like the position they took on "Lead By Spike Dragon the self proclaimed Shadow of the Sun, Who out of nowhere has been on the hottest of hot streaks, This team has consecutively one no less than 20 fights without a break!" Featherweight said. "Little guy's got some serious behind the fire power of his Buddy Shadow Dragon. But can we talk about for a moment how brutal Arid's deck can get?" "Indeed with using Searing executioner Flags, your overall life is lessened but you get extra gauge to make up for it with more than enough power for it matter." Featherweight commented as scenes involving some major first turn moves were played out. "We were able to get a quick interview in Star Gazer the Daughter and Self proclaimed 'A-Sis-Stant' Of team Burning Heart! She had this to say." "HAH!" Stargazer let out a laugh at the expense of Arid's groan. "So stargazer why don't you participate in the tournament?" "Because I have no interest in risking hurting my friends like that," "Do you mean Arid and Mercurial?" "Oh heavens no i mean Sylph and the rest of the Fairies." She giggled. "So as the assistant of Team Burning heart how do you think this is going to play out for them?" "Most ponies believe in the Theory of evolution but me and my brother follow the Ideal of the Theory of Competition, If you don't know what that is just watch the fights carefully and when you see my brother start to bleed while smiling or Arid actually start laughing then you will see where the game starts go " Star said as she got the food she was waiting for "Now The official tournament starts tomorrow so all teams are forbidden from fighting in order for them get a moments rest." Asmodai said. "That being said It's time to see whose Going against who!" Featherweight said as a slot with all 8 teams on both sides began to roll. "And the First team to fight tomorrow is?" Asmodai asked with anticipation the spinner slowed down to land on the Femme Fatale logo. The other one slowed and as everyone in the school saw it came to stop right one the Burning heart. "Just like Hearths warming." Mercurial fall said. "Only with more violence" Arid commented "We look forward to plenty of friendly matches and great competitions. Remember students its about having fun." Twilight Sparkle. "And as a reminder the Top 2 teams of the winners bracket and losers bracket will be going to represent us against the Crystal Empire Academy of Buddyfight. With that good luck everycreature." With that the day passed in relative silence and calm for spike it was staggering while arid and mercurial were both relaxing under or in the tree. Star Gazer was keeping true to her namesake as Spike couldn't help but stay overly worried at what tomorrow was to bring. > Final 8 | Declaration of War | Diamonds in the Sky > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Crystal Empire Train Station "End of the Line! Crystal Empire!" The conductor called out as everyone got off. Clockwork Orange whose face seemed to be stuck in a scowl upon arrival waited for Sunspot and a unicorn filly. "Wow you were right chrysi, it is really pretty here." "Sunspot~" The young filly whined. "I told you to call me Sweet Breeze." She huffed. "oops sorry you look really pretty like that though." The little filly blushed and lightly pushed him acting like an annoyed girl. "Unimportant." Clockwork said passively. "You there." He pointed to one of the train station clerks. "Welcome to the Crystal empire, How can we help you?" the clerk said nervously at the clearly irate pony. "I demand knowledge of the location of the Buddyfight academy." His voice was monotonous and intimidating. "Here is an application and it is 2 blocks north east of the crystal heart." "Thank you, your services have furthered our efforts." Clock work said walking away. "Sweet Breeze, Sunspot I have the applications and will fill them out for us as we walk. Destination is north east of the crystal heart." "Oh wow do you think we will meet some strong fighters?" Sunspot asked excitedly. "none as strong as you Sunspot!" Sweet breeze said happily. "Let us be off." Clockwork said. Waiting area of the arena in the Equestrian Buddyfight acadamy. Spike was worried. Mercurial and Arid were both sleeping on the couch as Spike paced anxiously. His opponent was already determined to be Diamond Tiara and was just waiting for things to get started. A Sound chimed in the room waking Arid and Mercurial. It was Time. Approaching the elevator Spike took a deep breath. "Good luck Spike you got this." Mercurial said. "And don't worry about fucking this up I heard the little brat is really strong." Arid commented. Spike gave a sheepish smile and a thumbs up before heading into the fighters arena. "Welcome one an all to the first fight of the first match of the Equestrian Buddyfight academy. Many of you have come from far and wide to learn, fight, and show off your skills. Now say it with me. Buddy..." Twilight began as the entire Colosseum style room chanted fight. "I am Spike Drake, Standing in the Dark I will use the Shadows to guarantee the Sun will rise! Lumenize! Shadows of the Sun!" He declared drawing his blade. "I am Diamond Tiara of the Femme Fatale, Spreading my wings to reach the diamonds in the sky I Take flight higher than the stratosphere, Lumenize Infinite Stratos." Diamond tiara declared as hers became a type of skin tight pilots suit. "Let's Raise the Flag." "I fight for Dragon world. "And I fight for Hero World." "The match begins Spike Drake has the first move." "Draw and charge and draw I equip, Shadowscale sword Dragoshadow." Spike signature weapon generated infront of him as he took hold. "Next I use Dragonic Shadow Shuffle and send all 3 shadow dragons to the drop." 3 shadows shot out from the deck darkening the shadows the shadows around the arena. "Next I buddycall, Shadow dragon the right." A shadow shot forth from his hand coalescing into his natural form as the sword pulsed and spike gained a gauge. "Now i call another to the left. and I use its ability call for Friends." 2 cards came out of spikes deck and got burnt up. "I call a shadow dragon to the center now." the sword pulsed as a 3 card was sent to the gauge. "Now my shadow on the left Attack the fighter." the shadow dragon dove into the ground only to pop out and bite onto Diamond Tiara's tail dropping her health by 1 as she flicked it off. "The move ends Diamond Tiara's turn begins." "You know Spike I always kinda thought you were cute." Diamond Tiara said "Draw and charge and Draw. Now take Flight, "Seventh Style Heatwind, Fiery Skies" Oba Kagari. To the center. " A Girl wearing a red skintight suit, who had blazing red hair and wings made from fire and metal resembling a phoenix appeared. "The Calvry is... wait... Was i the first to show up? I need a weapon!" She cried out worried turning to Diamond. "Activate Weaponry Link" Diamond tiara said. "Oba Kagari Requesting Shooting star." Oba said as she flew towards her fighter "Permission granted I equip you with Type II Sniping Rifle, "Shooting Star"" Diamond called out a Red and blue rifle similar to an advanced Spell Slinger appeared in a flurry of light within the hands of the monster. "Taking Aim! I have the target in my sights." "Take the shot and purge the weapon." "Firing!" a sudden bang as a condensed red beam of light shot forth from the muzzle striking Spike for 1 damage. "Shot successful Purging Shooting Star now." Suddenly the weapon lit up again before flowing into the gauge. "Weaponry link is active once again Requesting a new Equipment." "Permissions granted Sending Feather Blade, MAT-I." Suddenly a new card Appeared in Diamonds hand as silver and blue sword was equipped. "Oba Purge that one for me and ill replace it right away." "Affirmative" The sword lit up and went to the gauge only to be replaced by another sword, as another card appeared in Diamond Tiara's Hand. "Oba Kagiri Take out his center!" "Target spotted Now learn the reason why they call me the Fiery Skies!" Oba said as she charged the center shadow dragon. her blazing wings lit up as it she cleaved through it. "Now Penetrate!" "I cast White Dragon Shield." Spike said a Giant white dragon head appeared taking the hit and shattering. Oba pouted before falling back." "Command attack was succesful but no good on budging them." "I end my turn. Nice play Spike... Say if you want after this fight I can give you some pointers?" Diamond said winking. Spike blushed a bit. "N-no thanks I Draw and Charge and draw. I activate call for Friends once more paying one gauge." THe shadow dragon on the left began to roar as 2 cards got burned up but only 1 became a shadow that replaced the one on the right area. "Net I pay 4 gauge and add the six shadow dragons in the drop to evolve Anatta Overshadow dragon To the center." "I am one and all, nothing and everything. A shadow with form yet formless!" The large Amethyst Dragon Roared as it took form. "Now I attack the center." Spike declared thrusting the shadow sword outwards 8 points crashing down upon Oba Using her sword she tries to defend herself against the multi-pronged attack only for the sword to break. "Oh no I'm defenseless!" Oba cried out "Go shadow Dragon!" Spike ordered. the shadow dragon took on a pure black form of Anatta before breathing its black flames and destroying Oba kagari. "Now Overshadow GO! " "Fall before my rage." A huge pillar of Shadow fire engulfed Diamond Tiara making her scream in absolute pain as her health dropped violently down to 1. "the move ends Diamond Tiara's turn begins. "Draw and Charge and Draw. First i call to the center "First Style Coldwind, Snow Skies" Ilonya Gulayev." A younger girl in golden armaments and pale skin and Snow white hair appeared. "Snow Skies on the field. Weaponry Resurrection." Ilonya stated as light appeared in her hand and the sword that was used by the previous unit appeared. "Purging weapon systems." The sword then went into the gauge. "Weaponry Link Active Requesting A rifle." "Permissions granted Equipping Feather Rifle, "Wetter"." A smaller cybernetic rifle was formed as in her hands. "Purging Requesting again." Ilonya commented as the rifle flowed into the gauge repeating the entire sequence a second time "Next I pay 1 gauge and cast, Life as an Aircraft Mechanic And I add Feather Blade To my hand from the drop. Equipping the sword to Ilyona and drawing a card."Next I cast Two-man Team and since Ilyona has a weapon in her soul I draw 2 cards." 2 cards came in and her eyes lit up like her namesake. "I pay 2 gauge and ride Into "Zeroth Style Gale, Azure Skies" Mayuzumi Fubuki." Golden armor and wings as Diamond Tiara herself began to fly. "Now with my weaponry link I equip onto my Ride a Feather Rifle, Wetter gaining 2 health because of the abilities and a Feather Blade, MAT-I." She held out her hooves and in one a sword attatched itself to her left hoof and the Rifle to the other. "Next I pay 2 more gauge and ride into Double Skies Blue Wings, Haruka and Fubuki!" The golden armor then turned to a brilliant blue as the energy streams grew as another Being with the same armor appeared. "Are you ready Partner?" The particle wings on Diamond Tiara and Haruka's Back began to glow and change as a new card was used from her hand a blue light shot forth and destroyed Spike's sword. "Weaponry Link Mending Acceleration Unit, "Flying Swallow"" "Ready DT." Haruka said. as she Readied her wings rifle and weapon. "Infinite weaponry LInk!" the two said at the same time Soon enough from the gem in the center of her chest another card flew and joined into the sword its edge lighting with a burning blue color as heat seemed to radiate. "I add another Feather Blade, MAT-1 to my soul! Now taste our wrath!" DT and Haruka called out as they charged at Anatta the attack destroying a shadow from their blade before they turned and flew in a helix around Spike opening fire from their rifles. "Penetrate!" Spikes health dropped by 5 dropping his health from 9 down to 4. "We aren't done Yet." Haruka called out. "Double ATTACK!" DT declared as the repeated Before pillars of darkness were erupting around them as they opened fire on Anatta Destroying him again "ONCE MORE." "Together NOW!" Haruka called. "PENETRATE!!!" The two gave as a war cry before Swooping like a pair of birds Swords drawn and cross slashing Spike making him fall back as his health dropped to 0. "Winner Diamond Tiara!" "I hope my feelings reached you Spike it was fun." She said sticking her tongue before walking away. "Round one goes to Femme Fatale." The announcer declared. Spike picked himself growling at himself.. His winning streak broken as he looked at his deck Shadow scowled at him and huffed. "lets go..." Shadow said leading the way back to the waiting room. Spike was picked up and much to his surprise was being hugged by arid. "you did good kid, Now its my turn." Arid said before dropping Him. "Don't dissappoint me now arid, I feel it she's using That Impact." Mercurial said as he bit into a mango stargazer had given him. Arid only nodded as he walked. "Spike you performed well you were just out matched. Don't let it get to you.." "Yeah... Right... lets just watch Arid's fight." Spike said with a decent amount of Angst. > Final 8 | Declaration of War | Punishment Vs Salvation > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Behold those that have sinned lined before you and Administrate your Judgement! Lumenize, Executioner's Destruction!" Arid Declared as His deck case became his Scythe Soul Vaag appearing in waves of flame by his side. "Renounce Your sins and Accept our divine absolution! Lumenize Guardians Salvation." Gilda said as A tilted halo appeared above her head. "Lets Raise the Flag!" "I fight for the Searing Executioners!" Arid declared his health dropping to and his gauge increasing to 4. "I fight for the Divine Guardians!" A golden banner rose above her as Feathers as Pure and white as Celestia's Fluttered about. Her health increasing to 12 and gauge decreasing to 1. Arid has the first move. "Draw and charge and draw, Set gate of verdict judement. You stand before the gates of Tartarus, Next In line for your punishment Lets Begin the Judgement!" The Gates of Verdict Erupted behind Him Chains Lashing out as screams of the punished are heard as they beat against the locked gate trying to open it from the inside. "Next I activate the gates ability to gain 1 gauge and mill 2." Lifting his Scythe The Gates chains lashed out grabbing two cards before burning them away from the ashes a gauge appeared. "Following that I cast Little Light sending a card from deck to the drop and gaining a health." A shadow of a candle was seen rushing into the scythe as a single card came out and was wreathed in flames before Arid's Health Increased to 9" Next I pay 1 gauge and equip my purgatory sword, Silva Gibson." Stamping the butt of his Scythe into the ground he held out his left claw as the blade appeared Wreathed in flames of the Tartarus. "Now I cast Damian's decisions milling 2 to gauge 1 and draw 1. Then i Follow it up with Banquet of the unrighteousness." two more cards were burned away before a new gauge and a new hand cards appeared as 3 cards appeared before arid Suddenly all of them igniting. "No monsters so all 3 cards are sent to the drop. So ill pay 3 gauge to add a card from the drop to my hand and I choose Gagalgarios the Warden of this Prison."The Gates strained as they opened and a card Wreathed hellish blue flames appeared and flowed forward into Arid's hand. "Next I pay 1 gauge to call to the center Sword Edge Jailor, Zagulas and with his ability I add a Gate of Judgement, -verdict- To my hand. Now go Sword attack the fighter." black dragon with Bone white spikes and sharp forward facing horn from the head of his face appeared Roaring loudly to call forth the gates of hell appeared before Sword Edge Charged and struck gilda dropping her health from 12 to 10. "MY move I draw and Charge and draw. First I set Gate of Absolution Sanctuary! Then I cast Haven's Gift to add Gate of pardon, -Forgiven- to my hand then I'll set that." Two Divine Gates seemed to appear on beds of clouds One shining brilliantly with golden light that seemed to make all who basked in its heavenly glow feel at peace with their wrong doings. While the other had feathers and wings spread and shined with a soft glow that provided a field of comfort and safety. "Next Since I know this will strike Close to home I set All Dragons Go to Haven. Well All but you at least."The field around them seemed to pulse and change into a mountainous region that one would use to describe Elysium itself. "Call to the center Life Envoy, Nectar." A Tiny worm like dragon of gold and pearl appeared with a goblet filled with some liquid. "And then I buddy call to the left, Miraculous Water Envoy Ochimizu. And since I'm gaining a life from his buddy gift his ability goes off So gain a gauge and Since I have 3 or less cards in the drop along with Pardon on my field I get to draw a card." A larger Dragon worm like dragon appeared this one however seemingly have an ethereal red energy surge between teh different parts as it spread its 6 feathered wings a shining light healing Gilda providing a gauge and hand card. "So long as there is water there will be life and with life comes the fruits of love." It spoke its male voice serene and calmly. "Awww yeah! now you know how we griffons love to get pumped up well this item adds to the love I equip Sky pill armor, Doreamarti." Covering her entire right Forelimb and claw was an piece of armor with gold filigree and seemed to have glowing runes and light into it. "Now I know my hands looking a little thin so lets get some divine blessings going my way. I Activate the effect of my Doremarti sending a card to the bottom of the deck to gain a gauge. And then Activate the effect of Sanctuary to send the last card in drop to the bottom of the deck and i get to draw 2." The Armor glow began to intensify as a sphere of power grew and she blew on it its pieces spreading into her halo and into the gauge. As the Gate with wings door opened and what appeared to be Cherubs flew outwards as another card was brought into its encompassing light. The cherubs gave Gilda the cards before flying off. "Lets go Nectar Save that sinner!" The little dragon with the cup began to fly forward before suddenly Zagulas raored and charged at the little dragon. "Cast Black Beast Battle arts. Giving my boy 4k attack and defense and counter attack." Arid declared Zagulas defense became too much and the little dragon was smashed by the horn shattering away. "Dang Should've realized you wouldn't go down without a fight but that just makes it more fun for me! Ochimizu pick it up where NEctor left off." "As you desire My lady. As the water Ebbs and flows so does life. Let the Rivers wash clean your soul and give you the piece you so desire!" Ochimizu declared as it coiled around Zagulas before releasing a torrent directly on it Shattering the monster. "Nice now hit that drake with a Double attack." Gilda ordered "Now Let your sins fade." Ochimizu declared as a wave Crashed down onto Arid making his health Decrease to 7. "Now I'll attack you!"Gilda Declared before striking arid in the Solar plexus Arid's Health dropped from 7 to 6. "Its your move". Taking a Deep breath Arid Growled. "Draw and charge and Draw, I activate the first ability of Verdict again milling 2 to gauge 1." 2 more cards burned the Ashes turning into gauge. "Next i call to the center Formless Jailer, Izumonokami. Then I pay 3 gauge and Sacrifice my Izumonokami to make way for the Warden Hellfire Executioners Dragon, Gagalgarios." In Flash of Smoke a Yellow and black ninja had Appeared only to become Just as quickly enveloped in the Blue hell flames before the Mighty Warden Appeared. "I activate the effect of my sword Paying 1 gauge and mill a card to draw 1." The sword silver runes began to glow as chains Cut through the gauge and hit the deck burning them away as a card appeared in his hand. "Now gagalgarios attacks and his effect goes off." "I have judged your sins and found you guilty of the Sin of Pride, for who are you to forgive me of my greatness!" Black Hellfire surged forth from the challenge Burning the top 2 cards of both players decks, Granting a Gauge to Arid and burning 2 health away from Gilda dropping her health from 11 to 9. "Cast the shield of justice will never shatter." An Emphereal hero Appeared before Gilda raising a shield to block the flames. "Fine then Gagalgarios Destroy the guardian standing in your way. let your fury fly as you activate your effect." Arid Commanded. "And so the Angel Fell from his perch his wings Burned away from the fires of the sun. His pride and Hubris amounting to his fall from grace!" Gagalgarios Roared once again with the flames of Tartarus burning the top 2 cards of both decks away, giving another gauge to Arid and Burning Gilda of another 2 points. dropping her health down to 7. Suddenly a holy shield emitting blinding radiance made of wings appeared. "Cast Heavens shield Nullifying the attack and Gain a health and thanks to Ochimizu I get a little extra with it." Ochimizu granted another gauge and allowed her to draw another card . "I end." Arid said. "draw and charge and draw I activate Pardon putting 3 cards from my drop to the bottom of the deck to gain 1 life. Ochimizu's effect triggers." Her health returned to 9. " Next I call to the right Aeon Envoy, Soma. activating her ability to send another 2 cards from the drop to the bottom of the deck." Another smaller white and gold dragon appeared this one with pink energy moving between the parts as it descended from the light as it took two cards from the drop and bathed them in pink energy sending them back into Gilda's halo. "And since I have 3 or less cards in the drop I can choose to gain a life or gauge a card, my gauge is looking healthy so lets be different from you and get a life."breathing a mist onto Gilda boosting her health to 10 "Next I Activate Doreamarti to gauge one. and then i activate sanctuary to draw 2 since that leaves me with 0 cards left in the drop." the last few cards began to dissappear from her drop as 2 new cards and a new gauge appeared. "Next I enter the attack phase and as a heads up since i have no cards in my drop, My item gets a bit of a bonus of 1 crit. Ochimizu absolve that dragon of his sins." Gilda ordered her gauntlet glowing with power. Ochimizu began to spray a torrent of water onto Gagalgarios who only roared releasing the flames of Tartarus to evaporate the water. "Cast Own style sliding Fang."Arid declared "ARGH DOUBLE ATTACK IT" Gilda ordered. Ochimizu this time flew around the warden as water began to whip up and create a Whirlpool that drowned out the dragons flames. "I'm not done Yet! I am the Warden of Hell! MY flames Shall burn every challenger Away!" Gagalgarios said as he returned with Soul guard. "Soma with me for a link attack." The two Flew together to lead into an uppercut breaking the chin of the dragon shattering it. "Final Phase I pay 3 gauge and send soma to the bottom of the deck. TO impact call Avalon, "Benedict Ray" and due to Sanctuary they are both 1 size less so Ochimizu gets to stick around to see this smack down." The sky of clouds appeared above all and suddenly like parting water the clouds shifted as a great light beamed down. Similar to that of Princess Celestia's Sun on the Day of the Return of Nightmare Moon. As a Silhouette appeared to descend. "And so it is in our arms we grant thee, Forgiveness and in our hearts Sanctuary from the evils of this world. It is our hope and joy to see you grow and pass on our teachings to the next so that they two may ascend with us." The mighty being spoke. With 10 wings spread wide and golden beyond the gold of the Sun this being descended to the side of Gilda. "My child What is it you ask of me?" "Avalon go and Purify the corrupted before you. And Activate your effect I Send 3 cards from the drop back to the deck so he can bounce your field back to the hand and you take damage for it." "And so it was written that the body and mind shall return to the state of being before they were concieved." A pulse of great light echoed through the field breaking down the Gate of Verdict and the sword and forcing them back into the hand of Arid but the impact hit him hard enough to drop his health down to 4. "But to think one so juvenile could wield so much power has always been a sickening thought. Which is exactly why one must Spare the Child" It said as it floated before Arid. "And Spoil the rod!" Avalon declared before a downpour of holy light physically washed down upon arid to the point he screamed his health dropping to from 4 to 2." "Dang... your still alive.... I end." Gilda said more than a little annoyed Once the light Subsided however. A set of Tapping was heard from the Team box. "Truly Arid... What are you doing? Playing with your food? Didn't I tell you not waste time?" Mercurial Fall's Voice seemed to Deafen everything as the Air began to be suffocating and the light seemed to dim ever so slightly. "FIne This once I'll allow you permission. Arid Drake Draconian Order Release Restraint, Level 1." Silence ensued as suddenly where Arid was engulfed in flames that seemed to melt the very ground around him. With only his wings he pushed himself to standing. "This is the power of Judgement? Of absolution? Of Salvation? This is what is considered Equal to the searing executioners? The Divine Guardians... What a joke." Arid's was clear as Gilda gained a look of fear. Her feathers ruffled and shivered as all eyes where on the burning point of darkness as Arid Stood to fly upwards. "Let me show the mettle of one who has lived through Hell and Tartarus." "Draw and charge and draw. I set gate of verdict Judgement and use its ability to gauge 1." THe top 2 cards of Arids deck burned away. "Next I cast Demon Way blood eating. Forcing you to give me both a life and gauge." Arid suddenly blasted a gauge card on her side which burned away the ashes becoming a new gauge for himself before he appeared behind gilda and bit down on her dropping her health to 9 and raising his to 3. Only to appear like he never moved to begin with. "Next I pay 1 gauge to cast Demon way, Akeshigure to draw 2 cards after milling 2." 2 cards burned away the ashes becoming 2 new cards. "Next I buddy call Soulvaag to the center and to the right Land mine jailor." A Dragon head appeared in the right position as Soulvaag entered the field erupting with flames of destruction. "I Represent the beginning of your end Now be purged in Hellfire!" The black flames erupted from him burning 2 more cards from both players decks. "You who has no power here Face my WRATH!" A fire ball of similar flame to what Arid was Wrapped in launched forward into Avalon burning his wings away as he fell into a crevice in the field made from Soulvaag. the Flames burned a health away from Gilda to 8. "AGH AVALON!" She cried out for her strongest. "Next I cast Damian's decision, and then cast Inferno Rule to destroy your sanctuary. Now Lets begin the final assault. Go Soulvaag and attack the fighter." 2 cards burned away to become a gauge and a hand card as one was used to become a blazing stream of fire that broke down the gates of Sanctuary. "As you Command my Buddy!" A stream of black flames made their way to Gilda before she screamed in fear and pain using whatever to protect herself her health dropping by 2 to 6"Land Mine attacks for 1 now." The dragons head generated a small fire ball that launched towards Gilda before Singing her feathers dropping her to 5. "GO NOW LET ME SHOW YOU A REAL FINAL PHASE. LET ME SHOW YOU THE FULL POWER OF THE WARDEN OF THE EXECUTIONERS I PAY 3 gauge to break the seal, I sacrifice Soulvaag To fuel his rage." Suddenly the Gate behind Arid began to rumble as the 3 gauge used burned with black flames and Soulvaag laughed as he burned away as well. All 4 cards heading into Gate. Intense roars of Power and rage where heard echoing from the gate as Chain after Chain appeared on the gate as Flames of black and blue and red escaped through the crevices and pounding could be heard on it. Even despite all the chains on it the doors were still being pushed open only to close black. Those brave enough to look into the cracks of teh door when it was being slammed into could See an eye of blazing yellow and red for very brief occasions. Chain after chain went until suddenly it stopped. The silence that began was all devouring and not a being dare breath out of fear of what may happen next. Then they heard it... Soft at first the sound of sizzling. Of metal and Glass being subjugated to intense heat. Arid Flew and held his Scythe Deck infront of the chains all of the fire encompassing him moving to its blade as he brought it up slowly. Then suddenly he slammed it down breaking the first chain "IMPACT CALL GAGALGARIOS , "Prison Pyre Demonic Wave!"" The gates burst open as a wave of hellfire and heat washed about the field and was felt by the spectators burned away at the monsters on Gilda Field leaving naught by ash as as the Massive Black Dragon that was lit in flames of the purest flames of Tartarus Stepped through the Gate its Size filling all of the stadium on Arid's side. "Go Gagalgarios, Show her the Strength of Punishment Over Salvation!"Roaring lost in its berserk rage the Dragon slammed the ground. "Thousand, million, billions and trillions! I shall pass judgement punish your Pride many times over! For I am the Warden! The Sovereign Ruler of The Searing Executioners!" "I Ca-" Gilda began only to find herself Chained into place and her cards Chained up as well. "Wh-Why Can't I CAST ANYTHING!" She Squawked in fear. "Gagalgarios Special effect. When he attacks if my drop has atleast 25 cards in it you cant counter him." Arid said calmly. "Feel the Punishment for your Pride of your so called SALVATION!" Gagalgarios roared engulfing Gilda in his flames. Her screams could be heard as everyone Saw her Health Appear at 5 And Burn away Slowly at first to 4 then the fire grew stronger turning it into a 3 burning even faster to 2 roaring into a burning 1 and then the life burst into flames once again exploding into a 0. "Game over... Winner Arid Drake of Burning Heart." The field began to fade away as well as any injuries they were supposed to have endured. However the Podiums the two fighters stood on where both stained with ash and soot from the heat as well as Gilda having some singed fur and feathers. "You can keep your absolution... My salvation lies with a Bat." Arid said as he walked away. > Final 8 | Declaration of War | Apocalypse VS Disaster > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mercurial Fall walked forward with his Partner By his side. Silver Spoon stood opposed to him. The two nodded at each other with a kind of understanding that only two students who want to show that they only care for having fun with pride and respect towards each other. "I look forward to this Fight Mercurial. Behold for We The Bringers of the End, The Riders of Destruction At my beck and call Blaze the path before with your Cold eyes and lay the foundation for my rule, Lumenize Knights of the End." Silver Spoon declared as her core deck case became a Scepter which she held in hand. "You know I was hoping it would be you I could Fight... We couldn't predict the order and it was supposed to be Diamond Tiara to fight you. So please Show us what a Pony not of Equestria can do." Silver smiled "I thank you for you candor and your respect, so I shall fight you in earnest let this be a magnificent match for yourself and your friend Silver Spoon." Mercurial Fall Nodded in respect with a soft smile before a Sharpness came into his eyes. A wicked Strength seemed to unfold from both of them. "In effort to change the worlds fate, one must be willing to make sacrifices. Dark Lumenize Disaster Company." Mercurial Fall declared the armor pauldron appearing on his shoulder. "I fight for Dungeon World With My Partner Demon Lord of Demise, Kyoya. "Thank you for Indulging us. Let us make a wondrous Symphony together." Kyoya said with a slight bow. "I fight for Darkness Dragon world with my Buddy, Apocalypse King of Knights, Gratos! "We shall lay waste to all who would oppose our Reign as we spread our Conquest forth. First with this tournament and academy then the rest of the world, Through our absolute Dominance." "Silver spoon has the first move" "Draw and charge and draw. I Cast Vampire Fang to gain 2 gauge," A pair of glowing Fangs Appeared on Silver Spoon who then bit into the deck as 2 gauge appeared. "Then I'll use that 2 gauge to call to the left, Treacherous Subject, Belzergald and activate his affect to choose 2 black knights from my deck one to my hand and the other to the drop." A Black Knight with a wolf like helmet in black and gold appeared and fired his Musket at the scepter forcing 2 cards to appear. One with a bullet hole the other without, and that one went into Silver SPoons hand. "Just remember your Highness, Nothing is ever for free. And Betrayals become necessary." "Next Call to the right Black Knight, Hell Rapierand to the center Fourth Knight of the Apocalypse Thanatos." 1 knight that seemed to Lizard Like Features a torn and darkened cape sporting a feather cap and stained arm appeared as Riding in from nothingness came a skeletal horsemen donning Blue Armor and a massive scythe rode into the center position. "I am The 4th Knight of Apocalypse Bringer of Death and Darkness, Thanatos." It spoke with a chilling voice. The temperature in the arena seemed to be dropping by its mere presence." "Thanatos Strike my opponent." Silver Commanded. "Hades Cutter!" Thanatos Declared as Charged Forward and Struck Mercurial fall at the shoulder with his blade. Mercury's health Dropping to 8. "Turn end Mercurial Fall's Turn begins." The announcer Declared. "Draw and Charge and Draw. I cast Dangerous Fuse." Suddenly a Treasure Box with a stick of Dynamite appeared as 2 cards flew forward. "Counter with Vampire Fang." Silver Spoon Said as she took another bite of her deck charging her gauge by 2. As one of the cards Revealed its self. "Very well This is the card you want Black Dragon Priest Gremlin." The card Turned back over before flowing into the chest and it closed. "Well Silver, Left or right?" "The left one." She said using her magic to cut the Wires. The Dynamite began to act like it was exploding only for the chest to open up and reveal it was Gremlin. "Well Lucky me I get to add both cards to my hand. Now I Call to the center Gremlin." Gremlin Appeared in the center as he slammed his staff down. "If you Desire Power you know the cost." He said as 4 cards burned away from Mercury's Deck and a Gauge appeared. "Once again I Call to the right Gremlin." Another Gremlin with slightly off color clothes more to the red variety appeared. "Do not let your greed for power be your down fall." he said as he repeated his skill. "And lastly Call to the left Gremlin." A third one with more of a yellowish hue appeared. "How much are you willing to sacrifice for your strength." He repeated teh skill for a third time. "Its amazing that its not a once per turn skill." Silver Commented. "Amazing isn't it? Next I buddy call to the center." "So its time for the Crescendo." Kyoya said as he walked forward Calling his blade forth as he surged with lightning. "Call to the left Sophia, call over left Shido." "Analysis, Apocalypse Deck, Threat level Moderate, High Counter usage. My lord I take my leave." Sophia said before she faded. "Make way now for the second strongest member of the Disaster Company! It is I, Security Chief Shido!" He said bearing his Scythe with great pride. "Shido Shadow dives for 2!" "Behold My strength!" Shido Said as he fell into his Shadow and disappeared Readying his strike against Silver Spoon. "Black Dragon Shield." She declared putting her health to 11. "DARN IT And I was so close to... "Kyoya attacks the center and his effect activates." "A Knight should just do his part and Kneel before a true Lord If he can't do that much then he should be removed." Kyoya began. "Now Disaster Star Fall!" A surge of electricity Fired from the sword as 7 stars of darkness Struck a Screaming Silver Spoon. whose health Dropped to 4. "Gremlin the path is clear for you." "Yes My lord." Gremlin said as he aimed his staff and burned Silver Spoon for another 2 points of Damage dropping her health to 2. "Mercurial Fall's Turn ends. Silver Spoon's Turn begins. "Draw and charge and draw I pay 3 gauge and buddy call Apocalypse King of Knights, Gratos." six Black Knight corpses Hung Lifelessly in the air. Before Flowing into Gratos. "The strength of those Fallen before me and for me becomes my own." Gratos Said as he stepped into the field. "Now Kneel before the Might of King of the Apocalypse." Gratos in his Golden bone armor aimed his blade to Kyoya. As Treacherous Faded due to size over limit. "Next I Cast Rebels Armor." Gratos' Armor began to shift and change as his strength and power increased with its color changing to a dark Purple. "I activate Gratos Ability to destroy the center and deal 3 damage." "Kneel oh mighty lord before your king." Gratos Said as from his blade was released the Corpse of Thanatos Who grappled the surprised Kyoya before detonating like a bomb destroying both and Dealing 3 damage to Mercury dropping his health to 6. "Now Hell Rapier Destroy Gremlin." The black fencing knight dashed forward and struck a thousand times before Gremlin was Destroyed. "Gratos attack Mercurial Fall." "The servant of a Fallen Lord is punished as his lord is." Gratos Declared before bring his Sword down on Mercury Dropping his health to 4. "Gratos attack Shido." Silver Spoon ordered. "The price for failing to protect your master as Chief of Defense is Death!" Gratos began to bring his blade down on the Cowarding Shido only for it to ring out as it hit a protective barrier. "Divine protection of shelsana." Mercurial Said as he gained a health. "Thank you for the save my lord.." Shido said embarrassed. "The move ends. Mercurial Fall's Turn begins." "Draw charge and draw. Call Demon Lords Puppet Terumi." A young girl with empty eyes appeared wielding a bow, wearing an elegant Black Dress. "I am my lords' Servant.... Servant..." "Next I pay 3 gauge and sacrifice Shido to call forth Kyoya once again." Mercury Declared. Kyoya Reforming with a Sadistic Look in eyes and on a villainous Look on his face. "I do believe it is time to End This Mercury." Kyoya said Simply looking over his shoulder getting a nod from his Partner. "Gratos Destroy That Demon Lord once and for all." Silver Spoon said. "Yes my queen!" Gratos Said as another Corpse was launched forth towards Kyoya. "Terumi. You will protect your Lords Wont you?" Kyoya and Mercury both said in unison. Terumi Spurred on by the words Immediately Jumped Forward in front of the Corpse and took the hit of the explosion destroying herself as Mercury took 3 damage leaving him at 1 health. As she began to fade she looked back at her masters. Kyoya looked past her as Mercury nodded softly at her. A twitch of her lips and tears were the last things seen of her. "Wh-what?" Silver spoon questioned confused. "Ah yes... none of you have ever seen Terumi have you?" Kyoya began. "Let me clarify something for you lot." He said as he held out his hand and a small puppet of terumi appeared to be dancing underneath it. "She is such a loyal being but unfortunately she has no initiative. But her loyalty is second to none as she strives for acknowledgement from both of us. Yet her only use for me... Is Cannon Fodder." Kyoya said nonchantly like he was talking about the weather. "As such her ability is to sacrifice her self for any of the other Disaster Members." "I'll be sure to pamper her later though as she did well for her debut." Mercury said in a more melancholy state of mind. "That is your choice and prerogative. Now then What shall I do?" "Kyoya Finish This. Attack Gratos." Kyoya smiled as 7 stars of destruction appeared above mercury while Kyoya Disappeared from sight only to have had his blade thrust deep into and through Gratos' armor. From the destruction of Gratos a corpse flew from the wound initiating Soul guard and Giving Silver spoon an extra health putting her at 5. "Disaster Star Fall." mercury ordered Gesturing outwards spreading his left wing as each star fell individually upon Silver Spoon each one dealing one damage Until she had no health Left coming in at a different angles like they were a constellation in the sky of shooting stars each one making her scream in horror as the end of the game came about for her.The last 2 falling onto her at the same time. Silver Spoon fell to her haunches as she looked at Kyoya and Mercury with Disbelief. "You both are as bad as Villains to be willing to throw someone away like that." She declared with an angered look. Kyoya face had an amused look to it at that statement while Mercury Sighed Shaking his head with a forlorn smile. "You misunderstand Silver Spoon." Kyoya said. "There are those like me in this world that believe we have to bad or dark deeds to prevent worse from happening. That is where I stand and why I am able to do this." Mercury said whistfully as he turned away. "Because this world needs to be peaceful there has to be those who stand in the dark against it never to claim the glory and to take the fall for the real heroes." He explained walking back to his team. "Game Over. Winner Mercurial Fall. Match Over, Winner Team Burning Heart." The announced declared. "Lets go back to the dorm guys... I'm tired." Silver said to his small group of friends Arid and Stargazer both nodded. Spike was hesitant but nodded as well. "Hey... Mercury... you wouldn't throw me away right?" Spike asked. A hurt smile appeared across Mercury's features. "Nope, after all you are the hero of this story." ***Meanwhile in Manehattan *** Within the Dark and stormy skies of Manehattan instead of rain falling are strange cards begin falling to the people Red and Black with a strange Logo on one side of it. > Team Burning Heart To Be Disqualified?!?! | With a Friend like you... > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The morning after the first fight of the finals Team Burning Heart was Called to Headmaster Blue Bloods office. There they were met with Blue Blood, Twilight, Discord and Arid who was held in a magic bubble. Not for lack of trying to escape it as violently as possible. "What's seems to be the issue...." Mercurial began before seeing Arid. "What did he do?" "Ah so you recognize that your friend here is in trouble for his behavior?" Blue Blood said with a scowl. "Blue Blood, Relax, Spike, Mercurial Fall, Stargazer Take a seat." Twilight said politely. Doing as instructed they did with Star Gazer looking confused and concerned. "Now Mercurial Fall, Or may i call you Mercury for simplicity's sake?" She waited until he nodded."Mercury then, I am aware of you and your sister's situation which is why I am calling you all, Your sister is in no direct danger but without a properly appointed chaperone from the Dragon Lands you two may have to return home and have team burning heart Disqualified." "Can you please explain why in detail headmaster, headmistress?" Mercury's voice as even and his eyes were dull. "Ofcourse Mr. Falls," Blue Blood began. "At Approximately 32 past midnight Your home room teacher, Professor Discord who was doing his Nightly Janitorial duties. Found Arid sneaking about and trying to get his Thieving magpie talons on a box of the new sets." Discord who had on some janitorial blue scrubs a pair of yellow headphones and had his hair done wildly. gestured with the mop head to the Dragon in the magic field. "At this rate there be work for the axe no? Or do you think there is a dog buried in all this?" He said in a slightly Finnish accent." Twilight Looked confused at Discord's statements as Blueblood simply shook his head. Spike and Star Gazer blinked before getting concerned. "Don't kill him!" the two all but yelled. "Yeah i guess he will need to be axed but I want to understand why, Motive wise i can only think of 2 solutions however if myself and my team are being called for this purpose then its safe to assume that you know the precise reason and he didn't or was unable to shift the blame to someone else. So I ask why did he try to do it?" Mercury inquired his eyes hallowed as he looked at Arid. "I can tell you are not a yesterday's grouse's son. I'll hit the facts on the table, its because he was tired of throwing his spoon in the corner whenever the two of you fought." At that statement all presence of Mercury disappeared from the room as it became suffocating to everyone and even mildly annoying for Discord who simply opened a window that wasn't there which created the sound of air filling a vacuum. "Did he piss in your shoes?" Discord said annoyed. "Something so tedious he does what he did and has the audacity to blame me? No its because i cant see him as an ally anymore after that." He turned his hollow eyes to Twilight and Blue blood who were staring down Mercury with eyes of worry and anger respectively. "Send him back to the dragon lands, And if you can see if you can contact Dragon Lord Ember, or Former Dragon Lord Torch to provide a new chaperone, In the worst case scenario it might be that Team Burning heart will be disbanded. How long would you be willing to delay us until the issue is settled?" "That's just it Mr. Falls, you have precisely 24 hours as of the end of this meeting to have an appointed chaperone from the Dragon lands, or else your team would be disqualified due to your disenrollment." Blue blood explained. "Wait if that's the case why don't I just send a letter to Ember, Twi? I mean she could clear this whole thing up right?" Spike asked. "While it may accelerate certain things, Spike I do-" Twilight began before being cut off by Mercury. "My sister and I are not in her jurisdiction... thats the first issue... we are under the direct care and protection of Former Dragon Lord Torch, Arid was among a group of dragons picked to watch over and assist my sister and I live safely in their lands. The fact that Arid did this, means Torch Himself would have to get involved." "Unfortunately that means That we need to go back there get a new Babysitter and come back then grab him, take arid back to teh dragonlands and comeback." Star said as stuck her tongue out annoyed at Arid who was sneering in Rage at Discord and Mercury. Twilight who had just finished writing up a scroll and tying it began to walk to spike. "Which where our issue lays, But because of Spike's suggestion I may have a solution. Spike, Send this letter to Dragon Lord ember to see if she would be willing for this, after that its a matter of what you 3 would like to do." She explained Spike taking the scroll before burning the letter in his flames. "Now here is a possible solution, team burning heart would have to be disqualified however, they would only be disqualified from Our Academy." "I fail to see the relevance of the situation, Ms. Sparkle." Blue Blood commented cocking an eyebrow. "Well if you remember Blue Blood, The dragon Lands has the main HQ and training academy of our worlds Buddy Police, And is technically intergrated in teh schooling program however unlike normal they are designed for intensive training and Situational responses as opposed to battle theory and fun overall." "I do believe so, but im afraid i am still lost as to the idea you have." "A school can transfer students from one to another. So if we can so to speak transfer the following students, Say one Mercurial Fall, One Star Gazer, and one" Twilight paused and sighed slightly crestfallen. "One Spike Drake... they can potentially continue Team Burning Heart to be apart of the tournament should that be what they desire." Twilight explained giving a forlorn smile to the 3 kids. "Transfer out to the BPA? I would've ended up wtih them eventually so I don't see why not... but this comes down to our team leader." Mercurry said as he looked over at Spike. "So what's it gonna be Spike, Race against time? Or Come see our home?" Star Asked him. "Hold on... I need to understand something... Arid Got in trouble trying to steal cards, which is grounds for expulsion and because of that Star and mercury may have to be sent home for good? Which will kick us out of the tournament?" Spike asked confused. At Twilights nod he continued. "And the only way to keep the team alive, is to either A get a new chaperone as appointed by Torch, or transfer to a school in the Dragon lands?" this received a nod from both Star and mercury. "If you wish to stay Spike then just say it, its up to you..." Star reminded. "We will not force you to do anything you don't desire, You are allowed and I encourage you to be selfish with your desires." Mercury commented. As spike sat there weighing mentally Everything he wanted to do and personal stuff he burped up a new scroll which was taken by Blue Blood who read it and gave a nod to Twilight. "It seems all paperwork would be in order should you desire it Mr. Drake, Please take the next hour to decide until Dragon Lord Ember would arrive to weigh your options and decisions as she would need to take This brute back to the Dragon Lands to be punished." Blue Blood glared at Arid while informing the rest. Discord Opened the door to let the 3 out he made one last comment. "Spike, You don't need to run around with your head as a third leg, Just follow your heart and flame, and this crisis is going to be last winter's Snow." "Can you speak normally please I Swear I will never understand those strange phrases." "Hey don't blame blame the board of the FBC They are the ones that told me I need to help out the new girl." He explained. "At least I'll be able to get my vacation soon." He harrumphed before disappearing. Mercury and Star Gazer went to their dorm room as to start packing knowing the reality of the situation. Spike on the hand went to the courtyard to fully understand his options. All the while Shadow stayed silent watching from his shadow.