Vanguard: Lockdown World Chapter 1: Turn 1: Ripple, a cardfight!! vanguard/cardfight!! ヴァンガード fanfic

Hello everyone, and welcome to this new story. It is a bit different from what I usually write. Here's what you need to know about the story, before starting to read it:

1) It takes place in the Cardfight Vanguard anime universe, and is essentially an alternate story following the events of season 2. The events described in the summary transpire in this first chapter. The events in the anime, up to the end of season 2, are all considered canon, although some things may be revealed to not be as they originally seemed.

2) It uses exclusively canon characters. The only original characters that may appear are fodder enemies, and will not receive any focus or importance.

3) It is dark and gritty. Do not expect happy things to happen here. I could've just named it "A Song of Ice and Fire: Vanguard Edition".

4) It may end up... confusing. Partly because it is equal part plot, equal part cardfights, which means chapters tend to be long and things might be hard to keep track of. But I'll do my best to make events as clear as possible, and clarify any confusions that might arise.

5) Speaking of cardfights, yes, this is one of those fics where cardfights actually happen. Most of the time, you will get one full cardfight per chapter, with occasionally a few abridged ones happening in the background. Cardfights are accompanied by each move clearly denoted, and end-of-turn summaries for both parties, so they should be rather easy to follow.

6) Last, and more important thing: in this story, custom-made CFV cards will appear and will be used in abundance. This is both for in-universe (story takes place in the future) and general reasons (many cardfights would be, quite frankly, boring, if they just used cards everyone already knows and they would simply end up as rehashes of anime plays). However, a lot of already existing cards will be used as well. I've... taken some liberties with balance when designing new cards - some of them are noticeably strong compared to the existing card pool, but I think I've mostly kept things from exploding out of proportion. Also, expect a lot of new stuff in this fic - new mechanics, new keywords, new Sentinels, new triggers, new everything. The one thing I'm not doing here is new clans - I feel the cardfight aspect of the story is already full enough of new stuff, without adding a whole new layer to them.

Additional notes: the Point of View (POV) will generally remain consistent within segments (with the exception of some very brief, broad-perspective segments), and you should easily be able to figure out whose perspective you're reading from. Different segments are denoted by a centered "VGLDW0X", where X is the chapter number. Note that POV doesn't always change when a segment changes, it may just indicate a timeskip or something. Any custom cards that appear in each chapter will be listed and described at the end of that chapter (even if they've appeared before in the story).

Also please note that I'm struggling with 's annoying formatting constraints. If you notice any odd things please point them out and I will try to fix them.

Now then, if you've managed to get through the introduction without letting it scare you away... congratulations. Without further ado, I present to you the first chapter.

VGLDW01

TURN 1: Ripple

"As expected, Sendou Aichi. You have already pushed me to five damage... the strength of your wind is astounding. But, Aqua Force will not yield here!"

Aichi nodded, smiling. It is good... to be able to fight with everyone like this... To the sides, the remaining two members of their teams stood, anxiously anticipating the outcome. Previously, Misaki had managed to defeat Jillian, but Kamui had lost to Charlene, whose strength stood at odds with her carefree attitude. And further back, the remaining two teams that had been eliminated in the semi-finals - in the Dreadnought versus SIT Genius match, Jillian and Lee had each produced one victory for their respective teams, with Leon securing the match against Chris. And on the opposing side, though Aichi had suffered defeat against Narumi Asaka, Kamui had earned his long-desired victory against Kai, and Misaki had, to everyone's surprise, managed to defeat Ren after a hard battle. And now... everything was down to this.

Sendou Aichi
Hand: 4 | Soul: 3 | Dmg: 5 (F/F/F/U/U)
(R) Liberator of Royalty, Phallon (9000) - n/a
(VG) Liberator of the Round Table, Alfred (11000) - Future Liberator, Llew (6000)
(R) Liberator of Silence, Gallatin (10000) - Little Liberator, Marron (7000)

Soryu Leon
Hand: 2 | Soul: 1 | Dmg: 5 (F/F/U/U/U)
(R) Coral Assault (8000) - Storm Rider, Diamantes (9000)
(VG) Blue Storm Dragon, Maelstrom (11000) - Light Signals Penguin Soldier (5000)
(R) n/a - Tear Knight, Theo (8000)

"Stand and draw!" Leon declared. Behind him, the overwhelming form of the Tear Dragon, its back equipped with powerful artillery, towered over the battlefield, supported by a comparatively tiny penguin clad in a sailor uniform. To the right, a green-haired soldier wielding a massive energy sword stood behind another sailor carrying an oversized cannon, while on the other side a lean rifle-wielding sailor had assumed a battle-ready position. "Let's go, Sendou Aichi!" He plucked out a card from his hand and held it high, his words resonating throughout the spacious arena.

"Dragon spun into existence from the warp of the wind and the weft of the sea, live up to the legend in your ideal form! Crossride!" Maelstrom was wrapped in a gigantic water spiral, roaring as the force of the ocean grafted itself onto its body. Fin-shaped shards of armor arrayed themselves onto its wings, spreading outwards. Its skin became darker and scarred, hardened by myriads of battles, and its weapons multiplied accordingly. "Blue Storm Supreme Dragon, Glory Maelstrom!" The dragon screeched with fury and pride, announcing its power.

Aichi almost stepped back. The last time he had seen this beast, it was controlled by Void, a terrifying, unstoppable monster. Though Leon had escaped the control of Void, that didn't make Glory any less imposing. Its Power rose to 13000 with the effects of the Crossride. Can I defeat it? He glanced at his deck, the new deck he had formed once Blaster Blade had been unsealed, and the Royal Paladins had joined forces with his Gold Paladin deck. Around him, the units were arrayed - to his left, the blind knight, Gallatin and the warrior-sage, Marron, who had been his comrades for so long. To the right, one of his new allies, Phallon, a serious knight in dark armor wearing a red cape. And in his field's center, in front of the golden-haired young knight Llew, stood the imposing figure of Alfred, the king of knights, now on foot, carrying his giant broadsword and glaring at the opposition without a hint of fear in his eyes. We will not yield, either!

"Diamantes and Coral Assault exchange places. Also, call! Marine General of the Restless Tides, Algos!" A navy officer carrying twin rifles, with a serious expression, appeared in front of Theo. "The stage is set. The wind will guide me to victory! Diamantes, attack! With its skill, if it attacks the Vanguard and it is the first battle of the turn, Power plus 2000!" Now its Power score was equal to Alfred's. Aichi gritted his teeth.

"Gallatin, Intercept!" He called out. The white-clad warrior dashed forward, only for his blade to be met with the blind swordsman's own sword - despite Gallatin's lack of sight, he showed no hesitation in his movements, and Diamantes was forced to retreat.

"Very well." Leon acknowledged. "Continuing, Diamantes' skill activates. Diamantes and Coral Assault exchange places!" The two units replaced one another on the battlefield. "And now... can you defend against this one? With Penguin Soldier's boost, Glory Maelstrom attacks! Ultimate Break!" A giant Limit Break ring appeared over Maelstrom, spreading out to envelop the entire field. "Counter Blast! Power plus 5000! And for this battle, you cannot defend yourself against Maelstrom with any cards from your hand, if they are Grade 1 or higher!" Glory's Power rose to 23000, as it aimed its cannons at Alfred.

A terrifying skill... but, I have prepared for this moment. Aichi snatched two cards out of his hand. "Liberator of Hope, Epona! Both of you!" Two identical fairy knights, riding golden flying beetles, materialized in front of the knight king, whose total Power became 31000... enough to defend against this attack.

"Twin Drive, check." Leon declared, undaunted. The first card revealed another copy of Theo. "Second check." However, the second shone brightly with a ruby light, and Leon smirked. "Draw trigger. I give the power to Algos, and draw one card."

"Following, Coral Assault attacks Phallon! Because this is the third battle this turn, Coral Assault's skill becomes active. Power plus 3000!" Aichi glanced at the two cards in his hand. Unfortunately, there was no way to protect Phallon now. Shot down by the soldier's cannon, the swordsman was obliterated.

"This blow will finish it! With Theo's boost, Algos!" 22000 Power... but...

"Halo Liberator, Mark! Perfect defense!" Aichi shouted. The blue-haired defender formed a hexagonal barrier, that absorbed all shots from the general's twin firearms - but in exchange, Aichi had discarded the precious last card he held.

"So you managed to protect yourself. As expected." Leon said appraisingly. "However, you have not won yet! Your front line is empty! With these five cards, I swear I will defend myself!" He indicated the three cards in his hand, as well as the two units that could Intercept. "Turn end!"

Sendou Aichi
Hand: 0 | Soul: 3 | Dmg: 5 (F/F/F/U/U)
(R) n/a - n/a
(VG) Liberator of the Round Table, Alfred (11000) - Future Liberator, Llew (6000)
(R) n/a - Little Liberator, Marron (7000)

Soryu Leon
Hand: 3 | Soul: 1 | Dmg: 5 (F/F/F/U/U)
(R) Coral Assault (8000) - Storm Rider, Diamantes (9000)
(VG) Blue Storm Supreme Dragon, Glory Maelstrom (13000) - Light Signals Penguin Soldier (5000)
(R) Marine General of the Restless Tides, Algos (9000) - Tear Knight, Theo (8000)

I know. It's not going to be easy... it is Leon-kun, after all. Aichi wouldn't give up, though. "Stand and draw." He said calmly. Let's go... with everyone, together!

VGLDW01

I sense an unusual wind... Leon mused. It's a warm, and pleasant feeling... I get it. This is... Sendou Aichi's wind...

"Look, Misaki-san! Onii-san is about to finish this match!"

"Idiot, it's too soon to tell. Until the last damage falls, the match can go either way!" Misaki knew that, of course... but she, too, couldn't help but feel ironclad confidence in Aichi. We've come far... as team Q4...

VGLDW01

"I call, Phallon!" A copy of the fallen Liberator materialized in front of Marron. "And now, Alfred! Call your allies to the field of battle! Especial Counter Blast!" He flipped over two cards in his Damage Zone, and picked up the top card of his deck, smiling as he verified it. "Superior call! Liberator, Bagpipe Angel!" A beautiful angelic creature with aquamarine wings, softly playing a melody on her instrument, appeared on the still-empty rear guard lane. "Bagpipe Angel's skill! When it is Superior Called from the deck, I can choose up to two of my Liberators and have them gain plus 2000 Power each! I choose Phallon and Marron!" The two Units received a power boost, climbing to 11000 and 9000 Power respectively. Leon gasped.

"This formation - !"

"Let's go! Bagpipe Angel, attack Coral Assault!" Numbly, Leon offered no resistance as his soldier was blown away by a stream of musical notes exploding from the angel'sinstrument.

"And now, Alfred! Limit Break!" The sky above the King of Knights burst with a large Break ring. "For every one of my Gold Paladin Rear Guards, Power plus 2000! On top of that, Llew boosts, and skill activates! Power plus 4000! Total 29000 Power!" He can't guard it! He definitely -

"Emerald Schield, Paschal! Perfect defense!" Leon announced. The young green-haired soldier appeared, using a powerful energy shield to block Alfred's sword swing. He drew a perfect card?! Aichi recoiled.

"Twin Drive, first check." He turned over the top card. Marron. "No trigger. Second check..." Everyone was holding their breath in anticipation. But the next also turned out blank.

However...

VGLDW01

So it's come to this. Leon stared at the single Theo left in his hand. Along with Algos' Intercept, this would have been enough to protect his Vanguard. But...

"Phallon attacks! Phallon's skill - since I have a Liberator Vanguard, Power plus 3000! With Marron's boost, total Power 23000!" Just... one card too short. Bagpipe Angel was the key to this play... so you can stir up such a wind even without surrendering yourself to the storm, Sendou Aichi.

"Very well! I will leave my fate up to the wind!" Leon announced bravely. "Face it! My Vanguard!" Glory Maelstrom roared bravely, unleashing a barrage of torpedoes that covered the sky. However, Phallon slipped in-between the blasts, delivering a powerful vertical slash that pierced through even the Tear Dragon's armored skin. "Damage Check!" He verified his top card, but...

"...no trigger. I lose here."

It was as if a spell had been lifted. Teammates and spectators alike, no matter whose side they were on, began cheering and clapping. Aichi sighed. He had finally done it... a lot had happened, but in the end... they had taken part in the tournament and won. His eyes caught Kai, already leaving the stage without glancing back. Kai-kun...

"Congratulations, Sendou Aichi-kun!" Tatsunagi Takuto, who had beckoned them on stage, presented them with the winner's trophy. "As well as the rest of team Q4! For winning the VF Circuit, you truly deserve the title of champions!"

He really doesn't remember anything...? Aichi stomped his suspicions quickly, accepting the prize with a smile on his face. Kamui and Misaki, on either side of him, followed suit. In the end... it's finally over.

Little did he know, that it had only just begun.

VGLDW01

One week later

Why... am I here?

Aichi looked around him. He had decided to take a stroll and, lost in his thoughts, allowed his subconscious thoughts to lead his steps. This was that park, he realized, the place where, such a long time ago, he had first met Kai. The place where Kai had given him Blaster Blade.

Everything was peaceful here. Children playing around, laughing, older couples strolling through the grass holding hands, or sitting on the benches. Some were even gathered around a makeshift table, playing a game of Vanguard. Because he was quiet and keeping his distance, none had noticed him yet. He sighed. So peaceful... then, why do I feel this uneasiness - huh?

All of a sudden, the world had changed. No - he was in the same place, but it was night, a pitch-black, starless night where the only illumination came from a lone lamppost, casting its eerie, flickering light over the park. The area was entirely deserted and quiet, but from somewhere in the distance, sounds reached his ears - groans, sobs... screams.

"Wh - what's going on?!" He yelped, glancing wildly around. But then, above him, a massive black shape cast shadows over the half-light, and a terrible screech pierced the sky -

He blinked. Everything was normal again. What - was this? An illusion? It felt so real... He looked suspiciously around, but everything was exactly as it should. Everything, except...

"Good morning, Sendou Aichi-kun. A lovely day, isn't it?"

"Su - Suiko-san!" Aichi exclaimed, as an unexpected person arrived unnoticed behind him. The oldest of the three Ultra Rare sisters, the azure-haired leader of shop PSY greeted him with a warm smile. "What are you doing here?"

"I came out for a walk." Suiko replied innocently. But Aichi wasn't so sure. Suiko wasn't the type of person who'd be somewhere without a reason. Aichi's mind was full of suspicion. One way or the other, she seemed to be involved whenever anything weird was going on... on the other hand, she was the one who had given him the King of Knights, Alfred and the Majesty Lord Blaster cards. Still, it was difficult to trust her completely.

"You are staring too much today. Is there something you want to tell me?" Aichi blushed.

"S - sorry!" He mumbled. "Just..." Should he tell her about his... vision? However... as they looked each other in the eye, Aichi realized he did not trust the blue-haired woman with the enigmatic smile and the distant, playful eyes. Kourin was a different issue... but with Suiko, he could never tell what she was thinking, what she really wanted.

"So you don't trust me." Suiko said as if she had read his thoughts. Aichi recoiled.

"Well..."

"Don't worry. It's natural. After all, you haven't crossed blades with me yet..." She retrieved a deck of cards from the pocket of her white uniform. "Now then. Will you fight against me? I may be able to earn your trust this way."

"Fight... you mean, here?" Aichi asked, puzzled. "There's no - oh."

A translucent horizontal surface had appeared in front of each of them, looking very much like a Vanguard table. Only, it wasn't supported by anything, and simply seemed to float in mid-air, inviting the players to rest their cards atop it.

"Surprised? Technology sure is amazing, isn't it? With this, anyone can have a fight anywhere." Suiko commented airily, placing her deck on the designated slot. It seemed to be automatically shuffled. Still rather baffled, Aichi mimicked her quietly. If nothing else... through this fight, I will determine if I can trust her. The two locked eyes for a short moment, and -

"Stand up, Vanguard!"

"Wingal Liberator!"

"First Aid Celestial, Penuel!"

First Vanguard (Sendou Aichi): Wingal Liberator (G0 / 5000 PWR)

First Vanguard (Tatsunagi Suiko): First Aid Celestial, Penuel (G0 / 5000 PWR)

Celestial... Angel Feather, but I don't know this Unit. Aichi frowned. Behind Suiko, the childish angel with the short blue wings, carrying a golden treasure box, had materialized, while the courageous High Dog was positioned on his side, growling fiercely.

"I'll take the first move. Draw!" Aichi said assertively, drawing a card. "Ride! Future Liberator, Llew!" The golden-haired teen warrior appeared in place of the High Beast, allowing Wingal to position itself behind the Vanguard. "Turn end."

Ride: Future Liberator, Llew (G1 / 6000 PWR)

Superior Call: Wingal Liberator (G0 / 5000 PWR)

Sendou Aichi
Hand: 5 | Soul: 0 | Dmg: 0
(R) n/a - n/a
(VG) Future Liberator, Llew (6000) - Wingal Liberator (5000)
(R) n/a - n/a

Tatsunagi Suiko
Hand: 5 | Soul: 0 | Dmg: 0
(R) n/a - n/a
(VG) First Aid Celestial, Penuel (5000) - n/a
(R) n/a - n/a

"My my, Aichi-kun, you're a lot more forceful than before... it's like you're an entirely different person from when you first set foot in our shop." Suiko chuckled. "But, I won't fall behind. Ride! Nursing Celestial, Narelle! Penuel moves! Furthermore, call! Marking Celestial, Arabhaki!" An older angel sporting similar blue-wings, clad in a rather revealing azure outfit, materialized on the Vanguard circle, its predecessor following behind it, while a green-haired, four-winged teen angel brandishing a sniper rifle appeared beside her.

Ride: Nursing Celestial, Narelle (G1 / 7000 PWR)

Superior Call: First Aid Celestial, Penuel (G0 / 5000 PWR)

Call: Marking Celestial, Arabhaki (G1 / 7000 PWR)

"Here goes... Arabhaki attacks! And with her skill, Power plus 3000!" (7000+3000=10000 vs 6000)

"No guard!" Aichi called. It was too early in the game to be worrying about taking damage. "Damage check... no trigger.

Damage Check: Little Liberator, Marron

"Then, with Penuel's boost, Narelle attacks!" (7000+5000=12000 vs 6000)

"No guard!"

"Drive trigger, check." Suiko lifted the top card of her deck. "No trigger..."

Drive Check: Mirage Celestial, Tyniel

"Damage check... no trigger." Aichi quietly aligned a second card on his damage zone.

Damage Check: Halo Liberator, Mark

"Turn end." Suiko declared coolly.

Sendou Aichi
Hand: 5 | Soul: 0 | Dmg: 2(U/U)
(R) n/a - n/a
(VG) Future Liberator, Llew (6000) - Wingal Liberator (5000)
(R) n/a - n/a

Tatsunagi Suiko
Hand: 5 | Soul: 0 | Dmg: 0
(R) Marking Celestial, Arabhaki (7000) - n/a
(VG) Nursing Celestial, Narelle (7000) - First Aid Celestial, Penuel (5000)
(R) n/a - n/a

"My turn. Draw!" I'm not going to hold back here! "Stand up, my avatar!" He slammed his chosen card face-up on top of Llew. "Blaster Blade Liberator!"

The warrior of legend, encased in his new armor of silver and gold, and brandishing the massive broadsword that gave him his title which became his new name, appeared on the field. Fearless. Unstoppable courage that did not waver even after a year in his isolated prison. With Blaster Blade... I can continue my journey...

Ride: Blaster Blade Liberator (G2 / 9000 PWR)

"Blaster Blade Liberator's Especial Counterblast!" Aichi declared. I retire Arabhaki!" A stream of white energy flew forth from the holy sword, incinerating the defenseless Celestial. "And, call! Gallatin! Phallon!" The blindfolded swordsman and golden warrior appeared on Blaster Blade's either side, reinforcing his formation.

Call: Liberator of Silence, Gallatin (G2 / 10000 PWR)

Call: Liberator of Royalty, Phallon (G2 / 9000 PWR)

"Gallatin attacks!"

"Celestial, Landing Pegasus guards." Suiko announced without even pausing to think. (10000 vs 7000+5000=13000)

"Then, Blaster Blade! With Wingal's boost, attack!" (9000+5000=14000 vs 7000)

"No guard." The brave knight marched forth, raising his blade.

"Drive trigger, check." No trigger appeared during this check, either. Blaster Blade struck Narelle, causing her to wince in pain.

Drive Check: Liberator of Silence, Gallatin

"Damage check. No trigger." Suiko smiled slightly as she confirmed the identity of the checked card.

Damage Check: Aegis Celestial, Veriel

"And now, Phallon! With its skill, Power plus 3000!" (9000+3000=12000 vs 7000)

"I will take this attack, too." Suiko checked another card, which also failed to reveal a trigger. Score's two against two... it's still too early to tell. Aichi frowned.

Damage Check: Marking Celestial, Arabhaki

"Turn end."

Sendou Aichi
Hand: 4 | Soul: 1 | Dmg: 2(F/F)
(R) Liberator of Silence, Gallatin (10000) - n/a
(VG) Blaster Blade Liberator (9000) - Wingal Liberator (5000)
(R) Liberator of Royalty, Phallon (9000) - n/a

Tatsunagi Suiko
Hand: 4 | Soul: 0 | Dmg: 2(U/U)
(R) n/a - n/a
(VG) Nursing Celestial, Narelle (7000) - First Aid Celestial, Penuel (5000)
(R) n/a - n/a

"Well then, it's my turn again." Suiko seemed amused as she performed her next draw. "It's time to kick things up a notch... Ride, Essence Celestial, Becca!" A charming golden-haired angel took to the field, replacing Narelle. "And then, call! Mirage Celestial, Tyniel as well as Aurora Celestial, Lisael!" Two new angels appeared on the field, forming up one column on the right side of her Vanguard - a maiden thinly clad in translucent azure robes, brandishing a stave whose tip looked suspiciously like the barrel of a gun, and a a blonde angel in silver armor, carrying twin scimitars.

Ride: Essence Celestial, Becca (G2 / 10000 PWR)

Call: Mirage Celestial, Tyniel (G2 / 9000 PWR)

Call: Aurora Celestial, Lisael (G1 / 7000 PWR)

"Lisael's skill activates now, and Tyniel gains a new ability for the turn." Suiko announced. "But for now, with Penuel's boost, Becca attacks!"

"N - no guard." Aichi muttered. The angel struck with her hand-held blades, causing Blaster Blade to wince in pain. (10000+5000=15000 vs 9000)

"Drive check. Draw trigger." Suiko pointed out the scarlet glow in the card she had just revealed. "Power to Tyniel, and I draw one card."

Drive Check: Celestial, Landing Pegasus (Draw trigger)

"Damage check. No trigger."

Damage Check: Liberator of the Flute, Escrad

"Boosted by Lisael, Tyniel attacks!" Suiko declared. Aichi gritted his teeth, allowing this strike to hit home, too. (9000+5000+7000=21000 vs 9000)

"Damage check... Critical trigger." He muttered. "All effects to Blaster Blade Liberator."

Damage Check: Strike Liberator (Critical trigger)

"It's too early to relax." Suiko smiled. "Now, the effect Tyniel acquired from Lisael activates. Tyniel is placed on the Damage Zone, and in exchange, I can call a face-up Celestial unit from my Damage Zone to the rear guard. Arabhaki!" She performed the exchange, and in the formerly empty rear guard column, an angel identical to the one that had been retired by Blaster Blade's sword stroke earlier materialized.

Superior Call: Marking Celestial, Arabhaki (G1 / 7000 PWR)

"Your Vanguard may be out of Arabhaki's reach, but that does not apply to your Rear Guards. Arabhaki attacks Phallon! And because my Vanguard is a Unit with Celestial in its name, Power plus 3000!"

"Gallatin Intercepts!" Aichi called out. The blind knight moved in to intercept the bullet barrage, leaving the target unharmed. (7000+3000=10000 vs 9000+5000=14000)

"I think that will be all for this turn." Suiko said.

Sendou Aichi
Hand: 4 | Soul: 1 | Dmg: 4(F/F/U/U)
(R) n/a - n/a
(VG) Blaster Blade Liberator (9000) - Wingal Liberator (5000)
(R) Liberator of Royalty, Phallon (9000) - n/a

Tatsunagi Suiko
Hand: 4 | Soul: 1 | Dmg: 2(U/U)
(R) n/a - Aurora Celestial, Lisael (7000)
(VG) Essence Celestial, Becca (10000) - First Aid Celestial, Penuel (5000)
(R) Marking Celestial, Arabhaki (7000) - n/a

She's controlling the flow right now... but I'm also not about to give up so easily! "Draw! I ride... Solitary Liberator, Gancelot!" Even as he dissolved into motes of light, Blaster Blade raised his sword, to honor the arrival of the majestic knight riding atop his silver winged steed.

Ride: Solitary Liberator, Gancelot (G3 / 11000 PWR)

"I call Curved Blade Liberator, Josephus and Little Liberator, Marron to the Rear Guard." Aichi placed two more cards on the back row of his field, and a warrior with a scythe-like sword as well as the young giant sage materialized, flanking Wingal.

Call: Curved Blade Liberator, Josephus (G1 / 7000 PWR)

Call: Little Liberator, Marron (G1 / 7000 PWR)

"Boosted by Wingal Liberator, Gancelot attacks!" He cried out. The brave knight raised his sword and charged, unleashing a fierce war cry. (11000+5000=16000 vs 10000)

"I see." Suiko closed her eyes. "What you are planning is obvious... but, I won't make it so easy! Guard!" Aichi started as a single card appeared between the charging knight and the angel. "Adamantine Celestial, Aniel! Perfect guard!" She discarded the previously checked Pegasus. Aichi gritted his teeth. I planned to use Wingal Liberator's skill to Superior Call Blaster Blade... I should not have underestimated her.

"Twin Drive." He picked up a card. "Critical trigger!" However, Gancelot's attack was doomed to fail either way. "I give all effects to Phallon. Second check... no trigger." Gancelot's blade collided with an impregnable barrier, until he was forced to retreat.

Drive Check: Liberator of Hope, Epona (Critical trigger)

Drive Check: Liberator, Flare Mane Stallion

"I'm not done yet! With a boost from Josephus, Phallon attacks!" (9000+3000+5000+7000=24000 vs 10000)

"No guard." Suiko remained confident, despite the fact that Phallon's Critical had been increased. "Damage check... first. Second." Neither card revealed a trigger. Frustrated that his plan to deliver a third attack this turn had failed, Aichi signalled the end of his turn.

Damage Check: Prophecy Celestial, Remiel

Damage Check: Candle Celestial, Sariel

Sendou Aichi
Hand: 4 | Soul: 2 | Dmg: 4(F/F/U/U)
(R) n/a - Little Liberator, Marron (7000)
(VG) Solitary Liberator, Gancelot (11000) - Wingal Liberator (5000)
(R) Liberator of Royalty, Phallon (9000) - Curved Blade Liberator, Josephus (7000)

Tatsunagi Suiko
Hand: 2 | Soul: 1 | Dmg: 4(U/U/U/U)
(R) n/a - Aurora Celestial, Lisael (7000)
(VG) Essence Celestial, Becca (10000) - First Aid Celestial, Penuel (5000)
(R) Marking Celestial, Arabhaki (7000) - n/a

"My turn. Looks like I'm not going to have to hold back here." Suiko smirked. "Unfold the sacred wings that bear the color of life and death! Ride! Twilight Celestial, Luciel!" Six wings, painted with the colors of an afternoon sky where the reflected blue of the sea met and mingled with the crimson light of the sun, spread out before him. The angel who bore those wings had a lithe, ethereal body, clad in pure white dress. Her long black hair freely fell on her back, and in her hands were two large surgical blades, wielded like sabers. Her piercing golden eyes locked on him, and Aichi felt nervous under their gaze.

Ride: Twilight Celestial, Luciel (G3 / 11000 PWR)

"Let's go. First Aid Celestial, Penuel's skill. Penuel moves to the Soul, and then I can Superior Call one face-up Celestial unit from my Damage Zone. Come, Tyniel!" The Mirage Celestial reappeared on the field, in front of Lisael. "Next, I place the top card of my deck to the Damage Zone, face-down." She frowned as a Critical trigger card was lost to the Damage, but nonetheless pressed on. "Tyniel's skill! When she is Superior Called from the Damage Zone, I can pay the cost." She turned over Sariel's card in the Damage Zone. "Then, I can Superior Call Aurora Celestial, Lisael from my deck!" She scanned her deck for the designated card and placed it behind her Vanguard.

Superior Call: Mirage Celestial, Tyniel (G2 / 9000 PWR)

Superior Call: Aurora Celestial, Lisael (G1 / 7000 PWR)

"You know what happens next..." Suiko said, entertained by Aichi's surprised expression. "Lisael provides Tyniel with a new skill. Arabhaki moves to the back. Call, Wild Shot Celestial, Raguel!" Her field is full now... furthermore, in this situation...

"Battle! With Lisael's boost, Tyniel attacks!" (9000+7000=16000 vs 11000)

"No... guard." Aichi gritted his teeth. He knew that, with what was coming, he had to gamble here. "Damage trigger, check!" He sighed in relief as the top of his deck provided him with a much-needed Draw trigger card. "Power to Gancelot, and I draw!" Suiko scowled slightly.

Damage Check: Armed Liberator, Gwydion (Draw trigger)

"Nonetheless, you remember Tyniel's new skill. Tyniel goes to the Damage Zone, and in exchance, Superior Call! Prophecy Celestial, Remiel!" A majestic golden-haired angel with brilliant azure wings took Tyniel's place.

Superior Call: Prophecy Celestial, Remiel

"Remiel attacks Phallon!" (11000 vs 9000) This time, Aichi allowed his rear guard to be mowed down by the angel's scissor blades, and placed it on the Drop Zone.

"And now, with Lisael's boost, Twilight Celestial, Luciel attacks!" Suiko commanded. "Limit Break!" A massive scarlet Break ring appeared overhead. "I move Prophecy Celestial, Remiel back to the Damage Zone face-down. Then I can Superior Call Tyniel once more!" Remiel vanished into a crimson fog, and the Mirage Celestial replaced her again. "Tyniel's Counter Blast! I Superior Call another Lisael from my deck, replacing the one behind her!"

"Guard, Epona!" Aichi announced. (11000+7000=18000 vs 11000+5000+10000=26000) With this, I'm safe unless two triggers appear...

"Twin Drive." Suiko declared. "First check. Get." She tauntingly revealed the first card. "Critical trigger... power and critical both to Raguel." Aichi winced. "Second check... alas, no trigger." The angel's twin blades cut down the little pixie warrior and his flying scarab mount, causing him to vanish with a small cry - but the leftover power was insufficient to reach the knight behind his defender.

Drive Check: Punishment Celestial, Shamihaza (Critical trigger)

Drive Check: Twilight Celestial, Luciel

"Boosted by Arabhaki, Raguel!"

"Elixir Liberator!" Aichi slammed a card on the Guardian circle. (9000+3000+5000+7000=24000 vs 11000+5000+10000=26000)

"Tyniel!"

"Flare Mane Stallion guards!" (9000+7000=16000 vs 11000+5000+5000=21000)

"Turn end." Suiko admitted. Relieved, Aichi sighed. I made it through somehow...

Sendou Aichi
Hand: 2 | Soul: 2 | Dmg: 5(F/F/U/U/U)
(R) n/a - Little Liberator, Marron (7000)
(VG) Solitary Liberator, Gancelot (11000) - Wingal Liberator (5000)
(R) n/a - Curved Blade Liberator, Josephus (7000)

Tatsunagi Suiko
Hand: 3 | Soul: 3 | Dmg: 4(F/F/F/F)
(R) Mirage Celestial, Tyniel (9000) - Aurora Celestial, Lisael (7000)
(VG) Twilight Celestial, Luciel (11000) - Aurora Celestial, Lisael (7000)
(R) Wild Shot Celestial, Raguel (9000) - Marking Celestial, Arabhaki (7000)

"Stand and draw." He said. "Suiko-san... I've noticed for a while now but... why is there noone else around us?" He indicated the park, that was suddenly devoid of all life. He found it a bit hard to believe that the people that were around a few minutes before had conveniently all decided to leave as soon as their card fight started. Suiko only smiled enigmatically.

"What, I thought it would be more fun if it's a private date." She chuckled at Aichi's expression. "Hm, I'm not doing a very good job at getting you to trust me, am I?"

"Not so far." Aichi admitted. "But... this turn will expose your true feelings, Suiko-san. With this card..." He held up one of the units in his hand, which shone with a dazzling light. "Side-by-side with new and old comrades, your radiance will shine even brighter! Repel the darkness with the brilliance of your proud soul! Break Ride!" Suddenly, a Break ring exploded over Gancelot, resulting in a pillar of light reaching up to the sky above. In the cavalry knight's place, a new warrior appeared, with dark silver armor and a brilliant golden mane flying wildly behind him, carrying two broad scimitars. "Blazing Lion, Platina Ezel!"

Break Ride: Blazing Lion, Platina Ezel (G3 / 11000 PWR)

"Break Ride..." Suiko muttered.

"Gancelot's skill!" Aichi declared. "When I ride a Gold Paladin on top of it, if my damage is 4 or more, my Vanguard gains plus 10000 Power! And that's not all! Three of my Gold Paladin Rear Guards also gain plus 5000 Power each!" All four of his Units began glowing with a fierce golden light as they were empowered.

"I'm not done just yet! Call! Gallatin! And Liberator of the Round Table, Alfred!" The blindfolded warrior and the leader of the knights appeared, flanking Ezel and completing his line-up. All that was left...

Call: Liberator of Silence, Gallatin (G2 / 10000 PWR)

Call: Liberator of the Round Table, Alfred (G3 / 11000 PWR)

"And now... shatter every boundary! Surpass even the very final of limits! Platina Ezel! Ultimate Break!" Aichi shouted, and a massive Break ring appeared over his field. "Counterblast 3! All of my Gold Paladins Rear Guards gain plus 5000 Power!" Every one of Aichi's units shone with a blinding brilliance, empowered by the presence of their general. "The radiance of the Blazing Lion resonates within the brave souls of the warriors." Aichi reached out for the table. "Battle! Boosted by Marron, Gallatin attacks!" (15000+17000=32000 vs 11000)

"No guard." Suiko declared coolly, despite being faced with an overwhelming offensive power. "Damage check... no trigger."

Damage Check: Emergency Celestial, Danielle

"And now, Platina Ezel!" The blonde warrior roared, charging forward. "Attack!" (21000+15000=36000 vs 11000)

"Hmpfh. Aniel!" Suiko let her second copy of Luciel fall to the Drop Zone. "Perfect defense!"

"Twin Drive... no triggers." Aichi muttered.

Drive Check: Curved Blade Liberator, Josephus

Drive Check: Liberator of the Flute, Escrad

She only has Shamihaza in her hand. Along with her two Intercepts, that's only 20000 Shield. It won't be enough! "Boosted by Josephus, Alfred!" (16000+17000=32000 vs 11000)

"Hmm... so this is the extent of your power, Sendou Aichi. I'm impressed." Suiko smiled. "Looks like I'm cornered. No guard." The king's greatsword sliced straight through the twilight angel, causing her to screech in pain. "And... damage check..." Aichi tensed - the appearance of a Heal trigger now would ruin his victory. But the card that was revealed shone with a topaz light.

Damage Check: Punishment Celestial, Shamihaza (Critical trigger)

He allowed himself to exhale softly. It's done. He thought. In the end, I -

"Not just yet." His eyes snapped back to Suiko's, whose hand had not moved the final, sixth card to the Damage Zone yet. "I don't think our little date should end so soon. I activate Twilight Celestial, Luciel's second skill!" Before Aichi's astonished eyes, Shamihaza floated from between Suiko's fingers, rising up and then being constrained with chains of blue and red light. "Bind!"

"Wh - what happened?!" Aichi shouted.

"It's simple." Suiko explained airily. "Luciel has the power to Bind a card that would go to the Damage Zone. Therefore, since the sixth card never landed on the Damage Zone, that means I do not lose. Of course, this is a skill I can only activate once, and the Bound card will be placed on the Damage Zone at the end of my next turn. But just clinging to life for one more turn... that is enough." Numb, Aichi watched as Suiko began her turn. As she had said... with the cards in his hand and the sole Intercept, he had no way of blocking Suiko's attacks this turn. Even with a heal trigger...

Sendou Aichi
Hand: 2 | Soul: 3 | Dmg: 5(F/F/F/F/F)
(R) Liberator of Silence, Gallatin (10000) - Little Liberator, Marron (7000)
(VG) Blazing Lion, Platina Ezel (11000) - Wingal Liberator (5000)
(R) Liberator of the Round Table, Alfred (11000) - Curved Blade Liberator, Josephus (7000)

Tatsunagi Suiko
Hand: 1 | Soul: 3 | Dmg: 5(F/F/F/F/U)
(R) Mirage Celestial, Tyniel (9000) - Aurora Celestial, Lisael (7000)
(VG) Twilight Celestial, Luciel (11000) - Aurora Celestial, Lisael (7000)
(R)Wild Shot Celestial, Raguel (9000) - Marking Celestial, Arabhaki (7000)

"Battle." Suiko declared calmly. "With Lisael's boost, Tyniel attacks!"

"No... no guard." Aichi reached for his deck. He blinked. Suddenly the world around him was the dark, fallen world he had seen before. His deck... Why does it seem so far away...? Why... can't I reach it? But then his vision returned to the normal surroundings, Suiko looking at him with that enigmatic smile of hers. Without realizing when he had checked it, his final card fell on his Damage Zone.

Damage Check: Liberator of the Round Table, Alfred

"I... lost." Aichi muttered.

"Don't feel too depressed, though." Suiko chuckled. "When I'm serious, I am quite strong, you know. Do you trust me a bit more now?"

"...a little bit, yeah." Aichi admitted. "Through this fight... even though you act this way, I could tell your feelings as a card fighter were honest, Suiko-san." She seemed satisfied with that answer.

"Then, do you want to reach the answer to your questions?" She asked quietly. Aichi gulped, then nodded firmly. Whatever was going on, he would get to the bottom of it. He would not let Void, or anything else, threaten his friends or Cray again.

"Then take this card." Suiko held out a card for him. He carefully grasped it, and gasped. "This is - !"

"This card will guide you." Suiko said.

"Ah, wait!" Aichi called out as Suiko turned her back to him. However, in that moment, the world around him slipped away again. He tried to move, but he couldn't - his entire body felt like it was made of lead. For an instant, everything blacked out - and when he could see again...

"Wh - why am I... here...?" Glancing around, he recognized the world from his earlier vision. Except he wasn't just seeing it this time. He was in it. He could feel the wrongness in the air, the repulsion, the despair. And when he turned his eyes to the sky, he saw a massive black ring, outlined with crimson.

VGLDW01
FIN

CARD OF THE DAY:

Twilight Celestial, Luciel
Grade 3 | Twin Drive!
United Sanctuary | Angel Feather | Angel
11000 | - | 1
• [AUTO] [V]:[LB4, Select 1 of your Rear Guards with "Celestial" in its card name and place it face-down on your Damage Zone]: When this Unit attacks, you may pay the cost. If so, select 1 face-up card with "Celestial" in its card name from your Damage Zone and call it to (RC).
• [AUTO] [V]: During your opponent's Battle Phase, when a card would be placed from the top of your deck to your Damage Zone, you may Bind that card instead. If you do, during your next End Phase, place that card face-up on your Damage Zone. This effect can only be activated once while this card is on your (VC).
• [CONT] [V/R]: 'Lord' (if you have a Unit that does not share a clan with this Unit, this Unit cannot attack.
'The most sacred thing is life itself. Shine! Resonant Eden!'

An extremely talented doctor whose ability and medical prowess shone during her service in Angel Feather. Her modus operandi is 'life must be preserved for as long as possible, no matter the cost'. This belief has led her to some questionable practices, though - to her, the quality of life is far less important compared to life itself. She has been known to keep patients alive at any cost, even if it means they have to suffer from excruciating pain only to die a few hours later. Because her ethics is to save any life, even the life of a mortally wounded warrior that begs her to end his agony, she has earned a lot of criticism from her fellow angels who do not approve of preventing a soul that is meant to pass on from reaching its ultimate destiny. It has been said about her that 'she does not know the threshold where the doctor's profession must give way to his mercy', which is why she is usually held in reserve and her services are only called upon when absolutely needed. This has caused her to become dangerously spiteful of her comrades, whom she views are preventing her from fulfilling her divine duty to prolong lives. Her negative emotions have caused her six wings, that were once a clear blue like the sky, to be tainted with a scarlet hue.

VGLDW01

TATSUNAGI SUIKO:

Aegis Celestial, Veriel
Grade 1 | Boost
United Sanctuary | Angel Feather | Angel
6000 | 5000 | 1
• [AUTO] [Damage Zone]: When your Vanguard with "Celestial" in its name is attacked, you may call this Unit to (GC). If you do, during the Close Step of that battle, place 1 card from the top of your deck face-up on your Damage Zone.

Aurora Celestial, Lisael
Grade 1 | Boost
United Sanctuary | Angel Feather | Angel
7000 | 5000 | 1
• [AUTO] [R]: When this Unit appears on (RC), choose up to 1 of your Rear Guards named "Mirage Celestial, Tyniel", for this turn, that Unit gains the following skill: {{ [AUTO] [R]:[Place this Unit face-up on your Damage Zone] When this Unit attacks, during the Close Step of that battle, you may pay the cost. If so, select 1 card with "Celestial" in its card name, except a card named "Mirage Celestial, Tyniel", from your Damage Zone and call it to (RC) }}

Mirage Celestial, Tyniel
Grade 2 | Intercept
United Sanctuary | Angel Feather | Angel
9000 | 5000 | 1
• [AUTO] [R]:[CB1] When this Unit appears on (RC) from your Damage Zone, if you have a Vanguard with "Celestial" in its name, you may pay the cost. If so, search your deck for up to 1 card named "Aurora Celestial, Lisael" and call it to (RC), then shuffle your deck.