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"Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried, Attack Harpie Channeler!"
"Phoenix Cross Slash!"
Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried, holding a man-sized shield and greatsword and clad in thick armor, moved. His speed was nothing like what someone burdened by such heavy equipment should be capable of. Faster than the blink of an eye, Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried appeared before Harpie Channeler as if teleporting, about to swing his greatsword.
Harpie Channeler didn't even have time to take off from the ground. Just as she was about to be Destroyed, Mai Valentine reacted in time, pressing the activation button on her Duel Disk. "Don't think you'll get away with that, look over here!"
"I Activate Trap Card Sakuretsu Armor! By Chaining to your Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's Attack Declaration, I'll Destroy it!"
As Mai Valentine spoke, one of the three Set Cards in her Backrow was flipped face-up. A laser beam shot out from Sakuretsu Armor's Card Art, striking towards Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried. If hit by this laser, no matter how powerful Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's Attack was, it would simply be blown up and Destroyed.
Mai Valentine was feeling smug, but saw that the momentum of Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's greatsword didn't slow down at all. It heavily slashed down onto Harpie Channeler, piercing and tearing through the Cyber Shield she was wearing, Sending her to the Graveyard.
Facing the incoming laser, he didn't even frown. He simply raised his shield wreathed in Flames and performed a shield bash, actually managing to block the laser!
Seeing the look of shock on Mai Valentine's face, Valon explained with a smile. "Don't forget, Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried is already in its Gemini Summoned state! Although I didn't Activate its Effect during the Main Phase, as long as the Conditions are met, it can use its special Ability even during the Battle Phase!"
"Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried can, by Tributing one Equip Card on my Field, Negate and Destroy the Activation of a Spell/Trap Card that Targets a Monster on the Field!"
"Haa!"
Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried, who had raised his shield, pushed it forward with all his might. The laser beam that was held at bay by his shield was actually forced back, returning the way it came and hitting the Sakuretsu Armor Card itself.
The Sakuretsu Armor Card was Destroyed by the Attack it itself had unleashed, and at the same time, the Battle Damage from Harpie Channeler being Destroyed earlier was dealt to Mai Valentine.
"Mmm-hmm!"
[Mai Valentine: 4000 → 3300 LP]
Having completed an Attack and perfectly defended against a Destruction Effect, Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried returned to Valon's Field. The only Cost was that the Fire Phoenix, which had awakened due to the Effect of equipping Super Double Summon earlier, burned out and vanished because Super Double Summon was gone.
The Equip Card Valon had Sent to the Graveyard to Activate Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's Effect was Super Double Summon. It was precisely because it lost Super Double Summon that Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried reverted to its Normal Monster state before being Gemini Summoned. The Flames receded back onto its back, forming a cape.
However, this was only a portion of the Flames. Where the Fire Phoenix had dissipated, a ball of Flames was still burning fiercely. It even began to spread and expand.
"When a Face-up Super Double Summon is Sent to the Graveyard, I can Special Summon one Normal Monster from my Graveyard as a Target," Valon said, retrieving a Card from the Graveyard Zone and showing it to Mai Valentine. "The Monster I'm Summoning is Evocator Chevalier, which was Destroyed earlier!"
"Since he's here, my second Attack will be Evocator Chevalier attacking Harpie Perfumer!"
A figure flew out from the burning Flames. Evocator Chevalier, holding a sharp blade, returned Revived from the Graveyard. He pierced Harpie Perfumer's Chest with a single strike, not at all distracted by her beauty.
His cold Gaze seemed to say, "Women only slow down my sword draw."
[Mai Valentine: 3300 → 3000 LP]
Mai Valentine took Battle Damage once again. Her Life Points had dropped by a total of 1000. Although it seemed her Life Points were higher than Valon's, the Harpie Ladies on Mai Valentine's Front Row had just had their last one Destroyed. Meanwhile, Valon still had a True Evolution Protector - Bishop with 1500 Attack on his Field that hadn't Attacked yet.
"This will be the third Attack, Miss Mai Valentine!" Valon shouted excitedly, pumping his fist. "If there are no Monsters to block my Attack, True Evolution Protector - Bishop, Direct Attack the Duelist!"
The chain hammer wreathed in Flames was swung by True Evolution Protector - Bishop. Due to the nature of whip-like weapons, the ball at the end was constantly Accelerating. Swinging his chain hammer, True Evolution Protector - Bishop stepped forward, preparing to Direct Attack Mai Valentine.
In the Audience Seats, Joey Wheeler watched Mai Valentine, who had fallen into Danger, with extreme anxiety. Excitedly, he grabbed Tristan 's thigh and suddenly stood up, shouting loudly towards the Field. "Don't lose, Mai!"
The sound in the arena was so noisy. Theoretically, with so much noise interference, no matter how loud Joey Wheeler's voice was, Mai Valentine would be unable to hear what he said clearly due to her attention being distracted by the noise.
But Mai Valentine, for no reason at all, heard Joey Wheeler's shout.
Without turning her Head to look at Joey Wheeler, who was being pushed back into his seat by Tristan and apologizing to the Audience behind them, Mai Valentine retorted, "Idiot Joey Wheeler, even if I get hit by that Attack, it's not enough for me to lose. You actually think I'd lose just like this? Don't underestimate me too much!"
Her words were quite defiant, but the corner of Mai Valentine's mouth unconsciously curved up.
"Valon, you just said you were going to Direct Attack me, right?" Mai Valentine's finger pressed the button to Activate her Set Card. One of her Set Cards on the Field flipped up, revealing a semi-circular barrier. "You've already Destroyed all my Monsters and gained a sufficient Advantage, but you don't know when to quit while you're ahead."
"Then don't blame me for using this Card. I also have Joey Wheeler to thank for drawing this Card and giving it to me not long ago. I promised him we'd settle things in the group Finals later!"
"Activate Trap Card, Wave-Motion Wall!"
"What!?"
In front of Mai Valentine, a light blue transparent barrier silently expanded. As True Evolution Protector - Bishop's chain hammer slammed down heavily, it only caused a slight ripple on this seemingly fragile shield. It didn't even leave a single dent.
At the same time, as if triggered by True Evolution Protector - Bishop's Attack, the barrier protecting Mai Valentine suddenly released, transforming into a surging flood of compressed water, turning the entire Field into an ocean in just an instant. Valon's Monsters were all Engulfed by the torrent and disappeared!
"Wave-Motion Wall seems to be a derivative Card of Mirror Force. It has a similar Effect, sending all Attack Position Monsters on your Field back. It's not Destruction, but returning to the Deck. This way, even Cards like Monster Reborn won't bring back the Monsters that left the Field. Therefore, I think its Effect is a bit stronger."
"However, powerful Effects inevitably have strict Restrictions. Mirror Force only requires a Monster's Attack Declaration to be Activated, whereas Wave-Motion Wall requires a Monster's Direct Attack."
Mai Valentine paused, looking at the gradually receding flood. "In other words, Valon, it was your excessive desire to Attack that caused all your Monsters to be cleared."
No sooner had she finished speaking, Mai Valentine saw beneath the receding water, a golden spear stuck in the sand. It created an extremely small space behind it that wasn't submerged by the water for a humanoid ball of Flames.
Valon said helplessly, "You're lecturing me that this happened because of my excessive desire to Attack? I felt like I was already restraining myself quite a bit to be a calm person. Furthermore, not all Monsters left the Field."
"Quick-Play Spell Card Forbidden Lance, I Activated this Card from my Hand, Chaining to Miss Mai Valentine's Wave-Motion Wall Effect," Valon said, showing the Card. "At the Cost of decreasing its Attack by 800 points, I granted Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried the Ability to not be affected by Spell/Trap Card Effects other than this Card."
"However, for him who has already Attacked, the Cost of decreasing Attack is effectively meaningless. And it only needs to last until the End Phase."
Pausing, Valon glanced at the three Cards in his Hand. He Set all of them in his Backrow. "However, that was truly an excellent Counter, Miss Mai Valentine. If it weren't for Luck, my Monsters might really have been completely Depleted by you."
"Since there's nothing left to do, I Set three Cards and End Turn."
Valon said, looking at Mai Valentine. He suddenly felt full of Expectation for her next move.
He had to retract the evaluation he made when he first saw Mai Valentine. Mai Valentine was not at all the loud, pretentious woman he thought she was. On the contrary, she possessed a firm Will and tenacious fighting spirit. She was completely fearless in the face of various difficulties and Challenges.
Honestly, even though Valon believed he wouldn't fall for a woman, but facing Mai Valentine, his heart rate accelerated like never before. It wasn't the Influence of adrenaline secreted from exciting Duels like before, but because of hormones.
Come on, Miss Mai, I'm looking forward to your next Battle.
Let me see your Power as a Duelist, and your tenacious fighting spirit that has moved me!
[Valon: 1900 LP, Hand 0]
[Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried] [ATK 2800]
[Adamantine Power] [Set Card] X3
Once again, Mai Valentine's Turn arrived. Drawing Cards from her Deck, she calmly Declared, "My Turn, Draw!"
Along with the Drawing of the Card, Swords of Revealing Light, which had reached its second Standby Phase after Activation, completely shattered and entered the Graveyard.
Glancing at the five Cards in her Hand, the one Set Card in her Backrow, and Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried on Valon's Field, Mai Valentine took a deep breath and slowly exhaled. Her Gaze focused intently on Valon opposite her. "You are a Powerful Duelist, Valon."
"It's an Honor to receive your praise, Miss Mai Valentine."
Mai Valentine heard Valon's compliment but shook her Head. "I don't need that kind of verbal flattery."
"I am a Duelist, and my Goal is to prove that female Duelists aren't necessarily weaker than male ones. Glory, praise, and such are all unimportant to me. All I need is Power and Victory!"
"For this, I Activate the Set Card on my Field, Hysteric Party!"
Mai Valentine's last Set Card in her Backrow flipped up, revealing Hysteric Party. On the Card Art, Harpie Lady Monsters were gathered together, one after another.
Sending one Card from her Hand to the Graveyard, Mai Valentine explained Hysteric Party's Effect. "Harpie Ladies are gregarious creatures, skilled at team actions. And this Card can Summon Harpie Lady Monsters to the maximum extent."
"Activate by discarding one Card from your Hand; Special Summon as many Harpie Ladies as possible from my Graveyard."
Mai Valentine waved her Hand towards the sky. "Return to my Field, Harpie Ladies!"
"Harpie Queen!"
"Harpie Channeler!"
"Harpie Harpist!"
"Harpie Perfumer!"
"And, Harpie Dancer, who I just Sent to the Graveyard!"
[Harpie Queen] [ATK 1900 → 2100]
[Harpie Channeler] [ATK 1400 → 1600]
[Harpie Harpist] [ATK 1700 → 1900]
[Harpie Perfumer] [ATK 1400 → 1600]
[Harpie Dancer] [Level 4 Star/Wind Attribute]
[Winged Beast Type/Effect]
[1200/1000 → 1400/1200]
Accompanied by a clear hawk cry, in this Harpie's Hunting Ground, Harpie Lady after Harpie Lady appeared en masse, circling high in the sky. They stared menacingly at Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried on the Ground, who was standing ready against the large army of Harpie Ladies.
"She actually Summoned a full five Monsters in an instant!"
Valon was also greatly shocked by the appearance of the Harpie Lady army in the sky. But at the same time, he knew that all the Harpie Ladies could rely on at this moment was merely their numbers.
"Although there are many of them, Miss Mai, even Harpie Queen, with the highest Attack, only has 2100 points. She cannot defeat Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried."
Mai Valentine didn't get angry; she just replied with a confident smile. "Whether that's the case is hard to say. Now, due to the Special Summon of the Harpie Ladies, Harpie's Hunting Ground's Effect is Mandatory Activation. Although there are five of them, because they were treated as a single Special Summon, I can choose one Spell/Trap Card on the Field to Destroy."
As she spoke, Mai Valentine's Hand pointed towards the center position in Valon's Backrow, the Set Card directly behind Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried. "I choose to Destroy the Set Card in your middle!"
"Although I don't know what that Set Card is, my Intuition tells me that Card is very Dangerous!"
Harpie Queen was surrounded by the other four Harpie Ladies. Her light yellow eyes, clear like amber, locked firmly onto Valon's Set Card. She flapped her wings and shot out several feather arrows, about to pierce that Set Card.
Seeing this, Valon pressed the button to Activate his Set Card with some helplessness. "I didn't expect your Intuition to be so sharp, Miss Mai. Then, I'll Chain to Harpie's Hunting Ground's Effect and Activate this 'Dangerous' Set Card!"
"Trap Card Double Booster, Activate by Targeting one Gemini Monster on my Field. Equip Double Booster to that Monster as an Equip Card with the Ability to 'Increase Attack by 700 points'!"
Valon's Operation was quite strange. Because even if Double Booster becomes an Equip Card after Activation, Harpie's Hunting Ground's Effect won't be Negated just because it changed from a Set Trap Card to an Equip Card equipped to a Monster. Double Booster will still be Destroyed, and the Effect that Increases Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's Attack will also disappear because Double Booster is gone.
On the surface, Valon's Operation seemed like a Futile Effort? Did his Card Activation achieve nothing?
Before it was hit, a Machine appeared from Double Booster and was equipped onto Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's back, despite the completely mismatched art style. But it hadn't been on his back for more than three seconds when the feather arrows shot by Harpie Queen spun in mid-air and changed trajectory. They still accurately Hit Double Booster, causing it to Explode!
[Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried] [ATK 2800 → 3500 → 2800]
Mai Valentine frowned. Even though she had already Destroyed Double Booster, the sense of Danger in her heart not only didn't ease, but instead grew stronger.
Her doubt didn't last long. The situation on the Field told Mai Valentine where her sense of Danger came from.
She saw that at the location where Double Booster Exploded, Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried, Engulfed in Smoke and Dust and Flames, dragged his greatsword on the Ground. He slowly walked out of the smoke. And behind him, the Fire Phoenix, identical to when he was equipped with Super Double Summon earlier, also revealed its form!
"How can this be!?" Mai Valentine said in surprise. "Don't Gemini Monsters need to be Summoned a second time to Activate their Effects? Furthermore, Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried isn't equipped with a Card like Super Double Summon!"
Valon smiled. "The answer is Double Booster, which you just Destroyed, Miss Mai."
"When Destroyed and Sent to the Graveyard while in the state of an Equip Card, Double Booster can Target one Gemini Monster on the Field and make it become its Gemini Summoned Form."
Mai Valentine heard Valon's explanation and understood. She had been used.
Originally, Double Booster could indeed Increase Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's Attack by 700 points, but that was all. That version of Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried would just be a Normal Monster with 3500 Attack.
Unfortunately, the Harpie Ladies Mai Valentine used are good at Backrow Destruction, and she just happened to Destroy Double Booster. This actually fulfilled Valon's wish, allowing Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried to regain his Power.
"Tch, he actually used the Harpie Ladies' characteristic against me. I was tricked," Mai Valentine complained, then said, "Then I'll continue processing the previous Effect."
"Activate when Harpie Perfumer is Summoned or Special Summoned. I can Add one Spell/Trap Card that lists Harpie Lady Sisters in its Card Name from my Deck to my Hand."
After Searching her Deck for a Card and replenishing her Hand to five Cards, Mai Valentine's Hand pointed towards Harpie Dancer on her Field. "Next, I Activate Harpie Dancer's Effect!"
Hearing Mai Valentine's words, Harpie Dancer, who was flying around Harpie Queen in mid-air, left the flock and came before Mai Valentine. After a slight nod, she began to spin, jump, and close her eyes, like she came from an Indian movie set, starting to dance at the drop of a hat.
Mai Valentine took Harpie Dancer, with the lowest Attack, from her Duel Disk and said, "Harpie Dancer's Effect can only be Used Once per turn. From my Field, I return one Wind Attribute Monster to its owner's Hand. Then I can Summon one Wind Attribute Monster."
Mai Valentine drew a Card from her Hand, the highest Level Monster she had played in this Duel. "The Monster I'm going to Summon is this one! By Tributing Harpie Perfumer and Harpie Harpist, I Tribute Summon it!"
"It's time for you to appear, Harpie's Pet Dragon!"
Harpie Perfumer and Harpie Harpist disappeared from the Field together. And in their place appeared an orange-red Flying Dragon wearing a Collar and Chains around its neck, letting out a deafening roar at Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried:
"ROAR!!!"
Harpie's Pet Dragon's appearance injected new vitality into the Harpie Ladies on Mai Valentine's Field. Harpie Channeler replaced the Collar in her Hand with the one on Harpie's Pet Dragon's neck, leading it around like a fox borrowing a tiger's might. Meanwhile, Harpie Queen proudly stepped onto Harpie's Pet Dragon's Head, puffing out her Chest.
"Harpie Ladies possess sufficient intelligence. Although they aren't very skilled in Battle, they have tamed Flying Dragons to serve as their Combat Power," Mai Valentine explained. "Harpie's Pet Dragon has the Ability for its Attack to Increase as the Number of Harpie Lady Monsters on the Field increases."
"Each Harpie Lady Increases Harpie's Pet Dragon's Attack by 200 points!"
[Harpie's Pet Dragon] [Level 7 Star/Wind Attribute]
[Dragon-Type/Effect]
[2000/2500 → 2400/2500]
Harpie's Pet Dragon's Level is 7 Star. For this, it requires two Tributes. And the Number of Harpie Ladies on Mai Valentine's Field thus decreased to 2, only bringing a 400 point Attack Increase.
However, Mai Valentine's offensive had not fully unfolded yet.
"Only two Harpie Ladies aren't enough. Then Harpie Channeler, start Calling other Harpie Ladies!"
"Once per turn, I can Activate this Effect by discarding one Harpie Card from my Hand." Mai Valentine Sent Harpie Dancer, which she had previously Recycled to her Hand, to the Graveyard. "Special Summon one Harpie Monster from my Deck, other than Harpie Channeler, in Defense Position!"
Playing a Card, Mai Valentine said, "I Special Summon Harpie Oracle, then Activate her Effect. When Harpie Oracle is Summoned or Special Summoned, during the End Phase of this turn, I can Add one Card that lists Harpie Lady Sisters in its Card Name from my Graveyard to my Hand!"
Another Harpie Lady Monster was Summoned to Mai Valentine's Field. Although it was in Defense Position and couldn't participate in Attacks, and its Effect was a delayed Activation type that could only be Used during the End Phase, however, as long as it was a Harpie Lady, it was considered a contribution.
In addition to Harpie's Pet Dragon's Attack Increase, Harpie's Hunting Ground's Effect was Mandatory Activation once again. Mai Valentine could choose one Spell/Trap Card to Destroy.
Without waiting for Mai Valentine to explain anything, Valon calmly spread his Hand and pointed to his Field. "I still have these two Set Cards in my Backrow. So, are you going to Destroy them, Miss Mai?"
"Hmph, is that even a question?" Mai Valentine Annoyed snorted. "Then this time, I choose to Destroy the Set Card on your left!"
Harpie Oracle held a delicate stargazing instrument in her Hand. Her eyes carefully examined the scene inside. After seeing something, Harpie Oracle suddenly threw the stargazing instrument like a shot put athlete. It smashed onto Valon's second Card.
This time, Valon didn't Chain to Harpie's Hunting Ground's Effect and Activate the Set Card that was about to be Destroyed. But before Mai Valentine could get happy, she heard Valon's light chuckle.
"What a shame, Miss Mai. The Card you Destroyed this time is this one." Valon flipped up the Destroyed Card in his Backrow. "Trap Card, Security Orb. Its direct Use Effect is to change the Battle Position of the Attacking Monster by Chaining to the Attack Declaration."
"However, when a Set Security Orb is Destroyed by an opponent's Spell/Trap Card Effect, another Effect can Take Effect. I can choose one Monster on the Field and Destroy it directly."
Valon's Hand pointed towards one Monster on Mai Valentine's Field. "Although it feels a bit bad to extinguish your hope like this, a Duel is about going All Out. I choose to Destroy your Harpie's Pet Dragon, Miss Mai!"
A laser beam shot out from the remains of the Destroyed Security Orb. In just an instant, it pierced through Harpie's Pet Dragon's Body on Mai Valentine's Field, causing it to Explode and be Destroyed, Sending it to the Graveyard.
This is bad.
Mai Valentine's expression was grim. Because of Harpie Dancer, she still had the Opportunity for a Normal Summon after Summoning Harpie's Pet Dragon, and she indeed had a Monster in her Hand that could be Normal Summoned.
In her original Plan, she could use three consecutive Summons of Harpie Ladies to Destroy Valon's three Set Cards in the Backrow one by one. Then, after Summoning four Harpie Ladies, Harpie's Pet Dragon's Attack would also Increase to 2800 points. It could achieve Mutual Destruction with Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried. And then the Harpie Ladies would Direct Attack.
However, the most crucial link in this Plan had disappeared. Without Harpie's Pet Dragon, it was useless for Mai Valentine to Summon another Harpie Lady. She still had no Monster that could contend with Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried.
She still had four Cards in her Hand. There were no Cards that could create hope, except for Magical Mallet, which she drew during this turn's Draw Phase.
So, should she Summon the Harpie Lady in her Hand to play Defense, or Use Magical Mallet to replace all her Hand Cards with new possibilities and take a gamble?
Mai Valentine's answer was clear. She was never a calm person. Emotion always outweighed reason.
"I Activate Spell Card Magical Mallet. This Card allows me to Shuffle itself and my Hand into the Deck, then Draw the same Number of Cards." Mai Valentine put all her Hand Cards into her Deck. "I'm placing my hope on this Draw. Respond to me and create hope!"
"Draw!"
After seeing the drawn Cards, Mai Valentine's face broke into a Smile. "Yes! With this, I feel like I can do it!"
Valon didn't know what kind of Cards Mai Valentine had drawn, but he still Declared, "It seems you drew some good Cards? In that case, I Activate Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's Effect."
"When the opponent Activates a Spell Card, I Target one Gemini Monster in my Graveyard and Special Summon it. I Special Summon Double Soldier in Defense Position."
Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried plunged his shield into the Ground. Gripping his sword with both Hands, he forcefully slashed a cross shape in the air, forcibly cutting open Space. Then a Monster Mai Valentine had never seen before walked out from it.
That must be the Monster Valon Sent to the Graveyard with Graceful Charity last turn, right?
[Double Soldier] [Level 2 Star/Wind Attribute]
[Warrior-Type/Normal Monster]
[500/300]
"You Summoned a Monster in Defense Position? I thought you only put Monsters in Attack Position. However, even Defense is useless." Mai Valentine drew three Cards from her Hand. "Because I have completed everything needed for Victory!"
"Activate Spell Card Fusion! I use Amazoness Tiger and Amazoness Trainee from my Hand as Fusion Material!"
"Come forth, Guardian of the Amazoness, Amazoness Pet Liger!"
After the Harpie Ladies lost their Opportunity for Victory, Mai Valentine successfully created a miracle with Magical Mallet. She successfully Summoned Amazoness Pet Liger, which is also the Strongest in her Amazoness Deck!
The muscular yellow liger seemed like a ruler surveying its territory. It strode onto Mai Valentine's Field. It didn't need to make ostentatious roars or shouts. It only needed to stand there and stare at its Target. That alone was enough to bring about a terrifying Pressure.
[Amazoness Pet Liger] [Level 7 Star/EARTH Attribute]
[Beast Type/Fusion/Effect]
[2500/2400]
"Amazoness?" Valon commented. "But even this Monster's Attack is still no match for Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried. Although Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's Effect doesn't have a Once per turn Restriction, because I no longer have any Gemini Monsters in my Graveyard, even if you Activate a Spell Card, I cannot Summon another Monster."
Mai Valentine raised an eyebrow, showing a smug expression. "In that case, I won't hold back. I Activate Spell Card Fusion Recovery, Recycling Amazoness Tiger and Fusion, which were used for Fusion Summoning earlier. Then, I Normal Summon Amazoness Tiger!"
A tiger-like Beast much smaller than Amazoness Pet Liger appeared on Mai Valentine's Field. Together with the former, it built a Defense line on the Ground.
[Amazoness Tiger] [Level 4 Star/EARTH Attribute]
[Beast Type/Effect]
[1100/1500 → 1500/1500]
"Amazoness Tiger's Effect is that for each Amazoness Monster on the Field, it gains 400 Attack. Furthermore, the opponent cannot Attack other Amazoness Monsters."
"And Amazoness Pet Liger also has the same Attack-attracting Effect."
Saying this, Mai Valentine showed a Smile. "In other words, you cannot Destroy my Amazoness Monsters. This is my return gift!"
Valon gave a wry smile. "You really hold a grudge."
The so-called return gift Mai Valentine was referring to was, of course, the double Marauding Captain Strategy Valon used at the start of the Duel. It could only be said to be exactly the same as Mai Valentine's current Strategy.
However...
"In other words, Miss Mai, is your Strategy Defense?"
Mai Valentine heard Valon's words, tidied her Bangs, full of spirit. "No, I said it already. I've seen the path to Victory, and it's completely clear!"
"Enter my Battle Phase!"
"I will Use Amazoness Pet Liger to Attack your Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried," Mai Valentine smiled slyly. "When actively initiating an Attack, Amazoness Pet Liger's Attack can Increase by 500 points!"
"Defeat Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried and win me Victory, Amazoness Pet Liger!"
"Hunting Rhythm!"
Amazoness Pet Liger opened its massive maw and pounced towards Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried. Relying on the explosive Power in its muscles, its Attack Increased by 500 points, enough to rival Blue-Eyes White Dragon!
[Amazoness Pet Liger] [ATK 2500 → 3000]
Once Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried is Destroyed by this Attack, Valon's Field will only be left with the weak Double Soldier. It will be completely unable to protect Valon from Mai Valentine's Other Monsters' Attacks.
"So strong, truly too strong!" Facing such a desperate situation, Valon not only didn't feel any sense of Danger, but was instead captivated by Amazoness Pet Liger's Aura as it pounced. "Such perfect muscles, such a strong Aura, it's too beautiful!"
As he spoke, he looked at Mai Valentine. Perhaps because she saw the hope of winning, Mai Valentine's face showed a confident Smile. Her golden long hair swayed in the Wind. Valon was a little stunned watching her, his cheeks slightly red.
However, he still came back to his senses in time. He pressed the button to Activate his Set Card with some hesitation.
"My Name is Valon, I'm 25 years old, unmarried, currently traveling the world without a fixed residence. I like swimming and long-distance running. Every day before sleeping, I exercise for thirty minutes before resting, and I always get a steady eight hours of sleep like a baby."
"I'm not introducing myself, just explaining. I am a person who longs for a peaceful life. I don't have an Obsession for Duel Monsters. However, I also don't want to lose in a Duel."
Valon's Backrow Card flipped up, revealing a Trap Card quite similar to the Card Mai Valentine Activated earlier—
The ultimate Attack Declaration Trap known as "Hanoi's Sublime Power", Mirror Force!
"Wh-What?!" Mai Valentine was completely shocked.
"Boom!"
Unrivaled Power erupted. Dazzling Light bloomed. First, it was Amazoness Pet Liger, the closest one. Then Amazoness Tiger. Even Harpie Channeler and Harpie Queen in the air couldn't escape, being Destroyed one after another.
Only Harpie Oracle, in Defense Position, as if she had already calculated this situation, hid behind Harpie Queen and Survived with a "Defense Summon".
In an instant, Mai Valentine's previously full Field was instantly Depleted. She looked at the sole Harpie Oracle on the Field with some disbelief, showing a wry smile.
"Truly, how embarrassing."
"I End Turn."
Mai Valentine truly had no choice but to End Turn. She had placed everything on the Battle just now. Her Hand, Set Cards were all Consumed.
If she had known this would happen, she should have Summoned the Harpie Ladies first before Activating Magical Mallet. Mai Valentine felt annoyed and regretful in her heart, but there's no medicine for regret in this world.
In the end, is it another Defeat...?
Mai Valentine felt quite Lost in her heart. Her mood was directly expressed on her face, which was full of frustration.
Time and time again, while Hayato, Yugi Mutou, and Joey Wheeler were advancing triumphantly towards the peak, she was always left behind them.
It was like this during Duelist Kingdom. It was also like this during Duel City. And by the KC Cup, she had even been Defeated by someone who wasn't even in the Top 8 of Duel City.
How much further will the distance between me and Joey Wheeler grow...?
Valon couldn't see Mai Valentine's inner thoughts, but he could somewhat see her mood.
To be honest, Mai Valentine has a lot of Strength, and Valon also had to admit he had feelings for her and wanted to pursue her. Looking at Mai Valentine's expression, it seemed she was Suffering over her lack of Power? While Drawing a Card and starting his Turn, Valon also made a decision in his heart.
True Evolution Protector - Bishop, who had been returned to the Deck earlier, reappeared. His chain hammer Destroyed Harpie Oracle, Sending her to the Graveyard. Following that were the Direct Attacks from Double Soldier and Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried.
The greatsword wreathed in Flames slashed down. Mai Valentine's Life Points were completely Depleted. The Duel was decided then and there.
[Mai Valentine: 3000 LP → 2500 LP → 0]
"Phoenix Cross Slash!"
Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried, holding a man-sized shield and greatsword and clad in thick armor, moved. His speed was nothing like what someone burdened by such heavy equipment should be capable of. Faster than the blink of an eye, Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried appeared before Harpie Channeler as if teleporting, about to swing his greatsword.
Harpie Channeler didn't even have time to take off from the ground. Just as she was about to be Destroyed, Mai Valentine reacted in time, pressing the activation button on her Duel Disk. "Don't think you'll get away with that, look over here!"
"I Activate Trap Card Sakuretsu Armor! By Chaining to your Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's Attack Declaration, I'll Destroy it!"
As Mai Valentine spoke, one of the three Set Cards in her Backrow was flipped face-up. A laser beam shot out from Sakuretsu Armor's Card Art, striking towards Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried. If hit by this laser, no matter how powerful Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's Attack was, it would simply be blown up and Destroyed.
Mai Valentine was feeling smug, but saw that the momentum of Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's greatsword didn't slow down at all. It heavily slashed down onto Harpie Channeler, piercing and tearing through the Cyber Shield she was wearing, Sending her to the Graveyard.
Facing the incoming laser, he didn't even frown. He simply raised his shield wreathed in Flames and performed a shield bash, actually managing to block the laser!
Seeing the look of shock on Mai Valentine's face, Valon explained with a smile. "Don't forget, Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried is already in its Gemini Summoned state! Although I didn't Activate its Effect during the Main Phase, as long as the Conditions are met, it can use its special Ability even during the Battle Phase!"
"Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried can, by Tributing one Equip Card on my Field, Negate and Destroy the Activation of a Spell/Trap Card that Targets a Monster on the Field!"
"Haa!"
Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried, who had raised his shield, pushed it forward with all his might. The laser beam that was held at bay by his shield was actually forced back, returning the way it came and hitting the Sakuretsu Armor Card itself.
The Sakuretsu Armor Card was Destroyed by the Attack it itself had unleashed, and at the same time, the Battle Damage from Harpie Channeler being Destroyed earlier was dealt to Mai Valentine.
"Mmm-hmm!"
[Mai Valentine: 4000 → 3300 LP]
Having completed an Attack and perfectly defended against a Destruction Effect, Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried returned to Valon's Field. The only Cost was that the Fire Phoenix, which had awakened due to the Effect of equipping Super Double Summon earlier, burned out and vanished because Super Double Summon was gone.
The Equip Card Valon had Sent to the Graveyard to Activate Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's Effect was Super Double Summon. It was precisely because it lost Super Double Summon that Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried reverted to its Normal Monster state before being Gemini Summoned. The Flames receded back onto its back, forming a cape.
However, this was only a portion of the Flames. Where the Fire Phoenix had dissipated, a ball of Flames was still burning fiercely. It even began to spread and expand.
"When a Face-up Super Double Summon is Sent to the Graveyard, I can Special Summon one Normal Monster from my Graveyard as a Target," Valon said, retrieving a Card from the Graveyard Zone and showing it to Mai Valentine. "The Monster I'm Summoning is Evocator Chevalier, which was Destroyed earlier!"
"Since he's here, my second Attack will be Evocator Chevalier attacking Harpie Perfumer!"
A figure flew out from the burning Flames. Evocator Chevalier, holding a sharp blade, returned Revived from the Graveyard. He pierced Harpie Perfumer's Chest with a single strike, not at all distracted by her beauty.
His cold Gaze seemed to say, "Women only slow down my sword draw."
[Mai Valentine: 3300 → 3000 LP]
Mai Valentine took Battle Damage once again. Her Life Points had dropped by a total of 1000. Although it seemed her Life Points were higher than Valon's, the Harpie Ladies on Mai Valentine's Front Row had just had their last one Destroyed. Meanwhile, Valon still had a True Evolution Protector - Bishop with 1500 Attack on his Field that hadn't Attacked yet.
"This will be the third Attack, Miss Mai Valentine!" Valon shouted excitedly, pumping his fist. "If there are no Monsters to block my Attack, True Evolution Protector - Bishop, Direct Attack the Duelist!"
The chain hammer wreathed in Flames was swung by True Evolution Protector - Bishop. Due to the nature of whip-like weapons, the ball at the end was constantly Accelerating. Swinging his chain hammer, True Evolution Protector - Bishop stepped forward, preparing to Direct Attack Mai Valentine.
In the Audience Seats, Joey Wheeler watched Mai Valentine, who had fallen into Danger, with extreme anxiety. Excitedly, he grabbed Tristan 's thigh and suddenly stood up, shouting loudly towards the Field. "Don't lose, Mai!"
The sound in the arena was so noisy. Theoretically, with so much noise interference, no matter how loud Joey Wheeler's voice was, Mai Valentine would be unable to hear what he said clearly due to her attention being distracted by the noise.
But Mai Valentine, for no reason at all, heard Joey Wheeler's shout.
Without turning her Head to look at Joey Wheeler, who was being pushed back into his seat by Tristan and apologizing to the Audience behind them, Mai Valentine retorted, "Idiot Joey Wheeler, even if I get hit by that Attack, it's not enough for me to lose. You actually think I'd lose just like this? Don't underestimate me too much!"
Her words were quite defiant, but the corner of Mai Valentine's mouth unconsciously curved up.
"Valon, you just said you were going to Direct Attack me, right?" Mai Valentine's finger pressed the button to Activate her Set Card. One of her Set Cards on the Field flipped up, revealing a semi-circular barrier. "You've already Destroyed all my Monsters and gained a sufficient Advantage, but you don't know when to quit while you're ahead."
"Then don't blame me for using this Card. I also have Joey Wheeler to thank for drawing this Card and giving it to me not long ago. I promised him we'd settle things in the group Finals later!"
"Activate Trap Card, Wave-Motion Wall!"
"What!?"
In front of Mai Valentine, a light blue transparent barrier silently expanded. As True Evolution Protector - Bishop's chain hammer slammed down heavily, it only caused a slight ripple on this seemingly fragile shield. It didn't even leave a single dent.
At the same time, as if triggered by True Evolution Protector - Bishop's Attack, the barrier protecting Mai Valentine suddenly released, transforming into a surging flood of compressed water, turning the entire Field into an ocean in just an instant. Valon's Monsters were all Engulfed by the torrent and disappeared!
"Wave-Motion Wall seems to be a derivative Card of Mirror Force. It has a similar Effect, sending all Attack Position Monsters on your Field back. It's not Destruction, but returning to the Deck. This way, even Cards like Monster Reborn won't bring back the Monsters that left the Field. Therefore, I think its Effect is a bit stronger."
"However, powerful Effects inevitably have strict Restrictions. Mirror Force only requires a Monster's Attack Declaration to be Activated, whereas Wave-Motion Wall requires a Monster's Direct Attack."
Mai Valentine paused, looking at the gradually receding flood. "In other words, Valon, it was your excessive desire to Attack that caused all your Monsters to be cleared."
No sooner had she finished speaking, Mai Valentine saw beneath the receding water, a golden spear stuck in the sand. It created an extremely small space behind it that wasn't submerged by the water for a humanoid ball of Flames.
Valon said helplessly, "You're lecturing me that this happened because of my excessive desire to Attack? I felt like I was already restraining myself quite a bit to be a calm person. Furthermore, not all Monsters left the Field."
"Quick-Play Spell Card Forbidden Lance, I Activated this Card from my Hand, Chaining to Miss Mai Valentine's Wave-Motion Wall Effect," Valon said, showing the Card. "At the Cost of decreasing its Attack by 800 points, I granted Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried the Ability to not be affected by Spell/Trap Card Effects other than this Card."
"However, for him who has already Attacked, the Cost of decreasing Attack is effectively meaningless. And it only needs to last until the End Phase."
Pausing, Valon glanced at the three Cards in his Hand. He Set all of them in his Backrow. "However, that was truly an excellent Counter, Miss Mai Valentine. If it weren't for Luck, my Monsters might really have been completely Depleted by you."
"Since there's nothing left to do, I Set three Cards and End Turn."
Valon said, looking at Mai Valentine. He suddenly felt full of Expectation for her next move.
He had to retract the evaluation he made when he first saw Mai Valentine. Mai Valentine was not at all the loud, pretentious woman he thought she was. On the contrary, she possessed a firm Will and tenacious fighting spirit. She was completely fearless in the face of various difficulties and Challenges.
Honestly, even though Valon believed he wouldn't fall for a woman, but facing Mai Valentine, his heart rate accelerated like never before. It wasn't the Influence of adrenaline secreted from exciting Duels like before, but because of hormones.
Come on, Miss Mai, I'm looking forward to your next Battle.
Let me see your Power as a Duelist, and your tenacious fighting spirit that has moved me!
[Valon: 1900 LP, Hand 0]
[Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried] [ATK 2800]
[Adamantine Power] [Set Card] X3
Once again, Mai Valentine's Turn arrived. Drawing Cards from her Deck, she calmly Declared, "My Turn, Draw!"
Along with the Drawing of the Card, Swords of Revealing Light, which had reached its second Standby Phase after Activation, completely shattered and entered the Graveyard.
Glancing at the five Cards in her Hand, the one Set Card in her Backrow, and Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried on Valon's Field, Mai Valentine took a deep breath and slowly exhaled. Her Gaze focused intently on Valon opposite her. "You are a Powerful Duelist, Valon."
"It's an Honor to receive your praise, Miss Mai Valentine."
Mai Valentine heard Valon's compliment but shook her Head. "I don't need that kind of verbal flattery."
"I am a Duelist, and my Goal is to prove that female Duelists aren't necessarily weaker than male ones. Glory, praise, and such are all unimportant to me. All I need is Power and Victory!"
"For this, I Activate the Set Card on my Field, Hysteric Party!"
Mai Valentine's last Set Card in her Backrow flipped up, revealing Hysteric Party. On the Card Art, Harpie Lady Monsters were gathered together, one after another.
Sending one Card from her Hand to the Graveyard, Mai Valentine explained Hysteric Party's Effect. "Harpie Ladies are gregarious creatures, skilled at team actions. And this Card can Summon Harpie Lady Monsters to the maximum extent."
"Activate by discarding one Card from your Hand; Special Summon as many Harpie Ladies as possible from my Graveyard."
Mai Valentine waved her Hand towards the sky. "Return to my Field, Harpie Ladies!"
"Harpie Queen!"
"Harpie Channeler!"
"Harpie Harpist!"
"Harpie Perfumer!"
"And, Harpie Dancer, who I just Sent to the Graveyard!"
[Harpie Queen] [ATK 1900 → 2100]
[Harpie Channeler] [ATK 1400 → 1600]
[Harpie Harpist] [ATK 1700 → 1900]
[Harpie Perfumer] [ATK 1400 → 1600]
[Harpie Dancer] [Level 4 Star/Wind Attribute]
[Winged Beast Type/Effect]
[1200/1000 → 1400/1200]
Accompanied by a clear hawk cry, in this Harpie's Hunting Ground, Harpie Lady after Harpie Lady appeared en masse, circling high in the sky. They stared menacingly at Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried on the Ground, who was standing ready against the large army of Harpie Ladies.
"She actually Summoned a full five Monsters in an instant!"
Valon was also greatly shocked by the appearance of the Harpie Lady army in the sky. But at the same time, he knew that all the Harpie Ladies could rely on at this moment was merely their numbers.
"Although there are many of them, Miss Mai, even Harpie Queen, with the highest Attack, only has 2100 points. She cannot defeat Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried."
Mai Valentine didn't get angry; she just replied with a confident smile. "Whether that's the case is hard to say. Now, due to the Special Summon of the Harpie Ladies, Harpie's Hunting Ground's Effect is Mandatory Activation. Although there are five of them, because they were treated as a single Special Summon, I can choose one Spell/Trap Card on the Field to Destroy."
As she spoke, Mai Valentine's Hand pointed towards the center position in Valon's Backrow, the Set Card directly behind Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried. "I choose to Destroy the Set Card in your middle!"
"Although I don't know what that Set Card is, my Intuition tells me that Card is very Dangerous!"
Harpie Queen was surrounded by the other four Harpie Ladies. Her light yellow eyes, clear like amber, locked firmly onto Valon's Set Card. She flapped her wings and shot out several feather arrows, about to pierce that Set Card.
Seeing this, Valon pressed the button to Activate his Set Card with some helplessness. "I didn't expect your Intuition to be so sharp, Miss Mai. Then, I'll Chain to Harpie's Hunting Ground's Effect and Activate this 'Dangerous' Set Card!"
"Trap Card Double Booster, Activate by Targeting one Gemini Monster on my Field. Equip Double Booster to that Monster as an Equip Card with the Ability to 'Increase Attack by 700 points'!"
Valon's Operation was quite strange. Because even if Double Booster becomes an Equip Card after Activation, Harpie's Hunting Ground's Effect won't be Negated just because it changed from a Set Trap Card to an Equip Card equipped to a Monster. Double Booster will still be Destroyed, and the Effect that Increases Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's Attack will also disappear because Double Booster is gone.
On the surface, Valon's Operation seemed like a Futile Effort? Did his Card Activation achieve nothing?
Before it was hit, a Machine appeared from Double Booster and was equipped onto Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's back, despite the completely mismatched art style. But it hadn't been on his back for more than three seconds when the feather arrows shot by Harpie Queen spun in mid-air and changed trajectory. They still accurately Hit Double Booster, causing it to Explode!
[Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried] [ATK 2800 → 3500 → 2800]
Mai Valentine frowned. Even though she had already Destroyed Double Booster, the sense of Danger in her heart not only didn't ease, but instead grew stronger.
Her doubt didn't last long. The situation on the Field told Mai Valentine where her sense of Danger came from.
She saw that at the location where Double Booster Exploded, Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried, Engulfed in Smoke and Dust and Flames, dragged his greatsword on the Ground. He slowly walked out of the smoke. And behind him, the Fire Phoenix, identical to when he was equipped with Super Double Summon earlier, also revealed its form!
"How can this be!?" Mai Valentine said in surprise. "Don't Gemini Monsters need to be Summoned a second time to Activate their Effects? Furthermore, Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried isn't equipped with a Card like Super Double Summon!"
Valon smiled. "The answer is Double Booster, which you just Destroyed, Miss Mai."
"When Destroyed and Sent to the Graveyard while in the state of an Equip Card, Double Booster can Target one Gemini Monster on the Field and make it become its Gemini Summoned Form."
Mai Valentine heard Valon's explanation and understood. She had been used.
Originally, Double Booster could indeed Increase Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's Attack by 700 points, but that was all. That version of Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried would just be a Normal Monster with 3500 Attack.
Unfortunately, the Harpie Ladies Mai Valentine used are good at Backrow Destruction, and she just happened to Destroy Double Booster. This actually fulfilled Valon's wish, allowing Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried to regain his Power.
"Tch, he actually used the Harpie Ladies' characteristic against me. I was tricked," Mai Valentine complained, then said, "Then I'll continue processing the previous Effect."
"Activate when Harpie Perfumer is Summoned or Special Summoned. I can Add one Spell/Trap Card that lists Harpie Lady Sisters in its Card Name from my Deck to my Hand."
After Searching her Deck for a Card and replenishing her Hand to five Cards, Mai Valentine's Hand pointed towards Harpie Dancer on her Field. "Next, I Activate Harpie Dancer's Effect!"
Hearing Mai Valentine's words, Harpie Dancer, who was flying around Harpie Queen in mid-air, left the flock and came before Mai Valentine. After a slight nod, she began to spin, jump, and close her eyes, like she came from an Indian movie set, starting to dance at the drop of a hat.
Mai Valentine took Harpie Dancer, with the lowest Attack, from her Duel Disk and said, "Harpie Dancer's Effect can only be Used Once per turn. From my Field, I return one Wind Attribute Monster to its owner's Hand. Then I can Summon one Wind Attribute Monster."
Mai Valentine drew a Card from her Hand, the highest Level Monster she had played in this Duel. "The Monster I'm going to Summon is this one! By Tributing Harpie Perfumer and Harpie Harpist, I Tribute Summon it!"
"It's time for you to appear, Harpie's Pet Dragon!"
Harpie Perfumer and Harpie Harpist disappeared from the Field together. And in their place appeared an orange-red Flying Dragon wearing a Collar and Chains around its neck, letting out a deafening roar at Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried:
"ROAR!!!"
Harpie's Pet Dragon's appearance injected new vitality into the Harpie Ladies on Mai Valentine's Field. Harpie Channeler replaced the Collar in her Hand with the one on Harpie's Pet Dragon's neck, leading it around like a fox borrowing a tiger's might. Meanwhile, Harpie Queen proudly stepped onto Harpie's Pet Dragon's Head, puffing out her Chest.
"Harpie Ladies possess sufficient intelligence. Although they aren't very skilled in Battle, they have tamed Flying Dragons to serve as their Combat Power," Mai Valentine explained. "Harpie's Pet Dragon has the Ability for its Attack to Increase as the Number of Harpie Lady Monsters on the Field increases."
"Each Harpie Lady Increases Harpie's Pet Dragon's Attack by 200 points!"
[Harpie's Pet Dragon] [Level 7 Star/Wind Attribute]
[Dragon-Type/Effect]
[2000/2500 → 2400/2500]
Harpie's Pet Dragon's Level is 7 Star. For this, it requires two Tributes. And the Number of Harpie Ladies on Mai Valentine's Field thus decreased to 2, only bringing a 400 point Attack Increase.
However, Mai Valentine's offensive had not fully unfolded yet.
"Only two Harpie Ladies aren't enough. Then Harpie Channeler, start Calling other Harpie Ladies!"
"Once per turn, I can Activate this Effect by discarding one Harpie Card from my Hand." Mai Valentine Sent Harpie Dancer, which she had previously Recycled to her Hand, to the Graveyard. "Special Summon one Harpie Monster from my Deck, other than Harpie Channeler, in Defense Position!"
Playing a Card, Mai Valentine said, "I Special Summon Harpie Oracle, then Activate her Effect. When Harpie Oracle is Summoned or Special Summoned, during the End Phase of this turn, I can Add one Card that lists Harpie Lady Sisters in its Card Name from my Graveyard to my Hand!"
Another Harpie Lady Monster was Summoned to Mai Valentine's Field. Although it was in Defense Position and couldn't participate in Attacks, and its Effect was a delayed Activation type that could only be Used during the End Phase, however, as long as it was a Harpie Lady, it was considered a contribution.
In addition to Harpie's Pet Dragon's Attack Increase, Harpie's Hunting Ground's Effect was Mandatory Activation once again. Mai Valentine could choose one Spell/Trap Card to Destroy.
Without waiting for Mai Valentine to explain anything, Valon calmly spread his Hand and pointed to his Field. "I still have these two Set Cards in my Backrow. So, are you going to Destroy them, Miss Mai?"
"Hmph, is that even a question?" Mai Valentine Annoyed snorted. "Then this time, I choose to Destroy the Set Card on your left!"
Harpie Oracle held a delicate stargazing instrument in her Hand. Her eyes carefully examined the scene inside. After seeing something, Harpie Oracle suddenly threw the stargazing instrument like a shot put athlete. It smashed onto Valon's second Card.
This time, Valon didn't Chain to Harpie's Hunting Ground's Effect and Activate the Set Card that was about to be Destroyed. But before Mai Valentine could get happy, she heard Valon's light chuckle.
"What a shame, Miss Mai. The Card you Destroyed this time is this one." Valon flipped up the Destroyed Card in his Backrow. "Trap Card, Security Orb. Its direct Use Effect is to change the Battle Position of the Attacking Monster by Chaining to the Attack Declaration."
"However, when a Set Security Orb is Destroyed by an opponent's Spell/Trap Card Effect, another Effect can Take Effect. I can choose one Monster on the Field and Destroy it directly."
Valon's Hand pointed towards one Monster on Mai Valentine's Field. "Although it feels a bit bad to extinguish your hope like this, a Duel is about going All Out. I choose to Destroy your Harpie's Pet Dragon, Miss Mai!"
A laser beam shot out from the remains of the Destroyed Security Orb. In just an instant, it pierced through Harpie's Pet Dragon's Body on Mai Valentine's Field, causing it to Explode and be Destroyed, Sending it to the Graveyard.
This is bad.
Mai Valentine's expression was grim. Because of Harpie Dancer, she still had the Opportunity for a Normal Summon after Summoning Harpie's Pet Dragon, and she indeed had a Monster in her Hand that could be Normal Summoned.
In her original Plan, she could use three consecutive Summons of Harpie Ladies to Destroy Valon's three Set Cards in the Backrow one by one. Then, after Summoning four Harpie Ladies, Harpie's Pet Dragon's Attack would also Increase to 2800 points. It could achieve Mutual Destruction with Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried. And then the Harpie Ladies would Direct Attack.
However, the most crucial link in this Plan had disappeared. Without Harpie's Pet Dragon, it was useless for Mai Valentine to Summon another Harpie Lady. She still had no Monster that could contend with Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried.
She still had four Cards in her Hand. There were no Cards that could create hope, except for Magical Mallet, which she drew during this turn's Draw Phase.
So, should she Summon the Harpie Lady in her Hand to play Defense, or Use Magical Mallet to replace all her Hand Cards with new possibilities and take a gamble?
Mai Valentine's answer was clear. She was never a calm person. Emotion always outweighed reason.
"I Activate Spell Card Magical Mallet. This Card allows me to Shuffle itself and my Hand into the Deck, then Draw the same Number of Cards." Mai Valentine put all her Hand Cards into her Deck. "I'm placing my hope on this Draw. Respond to me and create hope!"
"Draw!"
After seeing the drawn Cards, Mai Valentine's face broke into a Smile. "Yes! With this, I feel like I can do it!"
Valon didn't know what kind of Cards Mai Valentine had drawn, but he still Declared, "It seems you drew some good Cards? In that case, I Activate Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's Effect."
"When the opponent Activates a Spell Card, I Target one Gemini Monster in my Graveyard and Special Summon it. I Special Summon Double Soldier in Defense Position."
Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried plunged his shield into the Ground. Gripping his sword with both Hands, he forcefully slashed a cross shape in the air, forcibly cutting open Space. Then a Monster Mai Valentine had never seen before walked out from it.
That must be the Monster Valon Sent to the Graveyard with Graceful Charity last turn, right?
[Double Soldier] [Level 2 Star/Wind Attribute]
[Warrior-Type/Normal Monster]
[500/300]
"You Summoned a Monster in Defense Position? I thought you only put Monsters in Attack Position. However, even Defense is useless." Mai Valentine drew three Cards from her Hand. "Because I have completed everything needed for Victory!"
"Activate Spell Card Fusion! I use Amazoness Tiger and Amazoness Trainee from my Hand as Fusion Material!"
"Come forth, Guardian of the Amazoness, Amazoness Pet Liger!"
After the Harpie Ladies lost their Opportunity for Victory, Mai Valentine successfully created a miracle with Magical Mallet. She successfully Summoned Amazoness Pet Liger, which is also the Strongest in her Amazoness Deck!
The muscular yellow liger seemed like a ruler surveying its territory. It strode onto Mai Valentine's Field. It didn't need to make ostentatious roars or shouts. It only needed to stand there and stare at its Target. That alone was enough to bring about a terrifying Pressure.
[Amazoness Pet Liger] [Level 7 Star/EARTH Attribute]
[Beast Type/Fusion/Effect]
[2500/2400]
"Amazoness?" Valon commented. "But even this Monster's Attack is still no match for Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried. Although Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried's Effect doesn't have a Once per turn Restriction, because I no longer have any Gemini Monsters in my Graveyard, even if you Activate a Spell Card, I cannot Summon another Monster."
Mai Valentine raised an eyebrow, showing a smug expression. "In that case, I won't hold back. I Activate Spell Card Fusion Recovery, Recycling Amazoness Tiger and Fusion, which were used for Fusion Summoning earlier. Then, I Normal Summon Amazoness Tiger!"
A tiger-like Beast much smaller than Amazoness Pet Liger appeared on Mai Valentine's Field. Together with the former, it built a Defense line on the Ground.
[Amazoness Tiger] [Level 4 Star/EARTH Attribute]
[Beast Type/Effect]
[1100/1500 → 1500/1500]
"Amazoness Tiger's Effect is that for each Amazoness Monster on the Field, it gains 400 Attack. Furthermore, the opponent cannot Attack other Amazoness Monsters."
"And Amazoness Pet Liger also has the same Attack-attracting Effect."
Saying this, Mai Valentine showed a Smile. "In other words, you cannot Destroy my Amazoness Monsters. This is my return gift!"
Valon gave a wry smile. "You really hold a grudge."
The so-called return gift Mai Valentine was referring to was, of course, the double Marauding Captain Strategy Valon used at the start of the Duel. It could only be said to be exactly the same as Mai Valentine's current Strategy.
However...
"In other words, Miss Mai, is your Strategy Defense?"
Mai Valentine heard Valon's words, tidied her Bangs, full of spirit. "No, I said it already. I've seen the path to Victory, and it's completely clear!"
"Enter my Battle Phase!"
"I will Use Amazoness Pet Liger to Attack your Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried," Mai Valentine smiled slyly. "When actively initiating an Attack, Amazoness Pet Liger's Attack can Increase by 500 points!"
"Defeat Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried and win me Victory, Amazoness Pet Liger!"
"Hunting Rhythm!"
Amazoness Pet Liger opened its massive maw and pounced towards Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried. Relying on the explosive Power in its muscles, its Attack Increased by 500 points, enough to rival Blue-Eyes White Dragon!
[Amazoness Pet Liger] [ATK 2500 → 3000]
Once Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried is Destroyed by this Attack, Valon's Field will only be left with the weak Double Soldier. It will be completely unable to protect Valon from Mai Valentine's Other Monsters' Attacks.
"So strong, truly too strong!" Facing such a desperate situation, Valon not only didn't feel any sense of Danger, but was instead captivated by Amazoness Pet Liger's Aura as it pounced. "Such perfect muscles, such a strong Aura, it's too beautiful!"
As he spoke, he looked at Mai Valentine. Perhaps because she saw the hope of winning, Mai Valentine's face showed a confident Smile. Her golden long hair swayed in the Wind. Valon was a little stunned watching her, his cheeks slightly red.
However, he still came back to his senses in time. He pressed the button to Activate his Set Card with some hesitation.
"My Name is Valon, I'm 25 years old, unmarried, currently traveling the world without a fixed residence. I like swimming and long-distance running. Every day before sleeping, I exercise for thirty minutes before resting, and I always get a steady eight hours of sleep like a baby."
"I'm not introducing myself, just explaining. I am a person who longs for a peaceful life. I don't have an Obsession for Duel Monsters. However, I also don't want to lose in a Duel."
Valon's Backrow Card flipped up, revealing a Trap Card quite similar to the Card Mai Valentine Activated earlier—
The ultimate Attack Declaration Trap known as "Hanoi's Sublime Power", Mirror Force!
"Wh-What?!" Mai Valentine was completely shocked.
"Boom!"
Unrivaled Power erupted. Dazzling Light bloomed. First, it was Amazoness Pet Liger, the closest one. Then Amazoness Tiger. Even Harpie Channeler and Harpie Queen in the air couldn't escape, being Destroyed one after another.
Only Harpie Oracle, in Defense Position, as if she had already calculated this situation, hid behind Harpie Queen and Survived with a "Defense Summon".
In an instant, Mai Valentine's previously full Field was instantly Depleted. She looked at the sole Harpie Oracle on the Field with some disbelief, showing a wry smile.
"Truly, how embarrassing."
"I End Turn."
Mai Valentine truly had no choice but to End Turn. She had placed everything on the Battle just now. Her Hand, Set Cards were all Consumed.
If she had known this would happen, she should have Summoned the Harpie Ladies first before Activating Magical Mallet. Mai Valentine felt annoyed and regretful in her heart, but there's no medicine for regret in this world.
In the end, is it another Defeat...?
Mai Valentine felt quite Lost in her heart. Her mood was directly expressed on her face, which was full of frustration.
Time and time again, while Hayato, Yugi Mutou, and Joey Wheeler were advancing triumphantly towards the peak, she was always left behind them.
It was like this during Duelist Kingdom. It was also like this during Duel City. And by the KC Cup, she had even been Defeated by someone who wasn't even in the Top 8 of Duel City.
How much further will the distance between me and Joey Wheeler grow...?
Valon couldn't see Mai Valentine's inner thoughts, but he could somewhat see her mood.
To be honest, Mai Valentine has a lot of Strength, and Valon also had to admit he had feelings for her and wanted to pursue her. Looking at Mai Valentine's expression, it seemed she was Suffering over her lack of Power? While Drawing a Card and starting his Turn, Valon also made a decision in his heart.
True Evolution Protector - Bishop, who had been returned to the Deck earlier, reappeared. His chain hammer Destroyed Harpie Oracle, Sending her to the Graveyard. Following that were the Direct Attacks from Double Soldier and Phoenix Blade Master - Gearfried.
The greatsword wreathed in Flames slashed down. Mai Valentine's Life Points were completely Depleted. The Duel was decided then and there.
[Mai Valentine: 3000 LP → 2500 LP → 0]
