Author's Note

The following viewers game me the deck archetypes used by the Duel Crusaders:

Tyrant Chaos:
Apple Bloom - Aroma
Spike - Red-Eyes

MechaTomX:
Scootaloo - Dino Wrestler

Both:
Sweetie Bell - Trickstar

Season Opener

Harmonious Element Compound: Celestia’s Office
Blaze, Flash, Twilight, and Astral stood before Celestia while Luna stood off to the side next to a screen. “We’re counting on you four to ace this.” The owner stated. “That’s your only mission. Nothing else matters.”

“You can count on us.” Astral declared. “We’ll show them whose boss.”

“We need to cover some specifics about the opposing team.” Luna pulled out a pad and pressed a button causing the opposing team to appear on screen. “This is team Duel Crusaders. Spike, Sweetie Bell, Scootaloo, and Apple Bloom.”

All four were preteens with Spike being the only guy. Speaking of Spike, he had a curvy, green mohawk, green eyes, and light purple skin. He wore a white shirt with a purple jacket over top, black pants with green lines down the side, a gray belt, and black sneakers.

Sweetie Bell had white skin, light green eyes, and purple and pink hair that reached past her shoulders. She wore a light pink shirt with a salmon pink, short sleeved overshirt, a dull yellow skirt, and dark pink shoes.

Scootaloo had orange skin, short, purple hair, and matching eyes. She wore a light black hoodie with light blue trim, matching combat boots, and green cargo pants. Unlike the others in the photo, she wore her duel disk which was orange with purple accents.

Apple Bloom had pale yellow skin, light red eyes, and red hair which reached down her back and had a large pink bow in it. She wore a short sleeved, light green top, blue jeans rolled up to her knees, and tan cowgirl boots.

“A picture can be very telling.” Twilight was staring at Spike. “From what I can tell, your very happy with your team little brother.” She smiled. “I’m glad you found a place where you belong. It’s equally good to see that you four are still together even if I am not with all my friends.”

“Make no mistake in that all four are skilled, but you must pay attention to three in particular.” Luna pressed on her tablet causing the screen to split into three segments displaying Spike, Scootaloo, and Apple bloom.

“Spike and Scootaloo are the duelists who made it to the end of year tournament last year. Both placed in the top eight. They run a Red-Eyes and Dinowrestler deck respectively with numerous powerhouses. Apple Bloom ran an Aroma deck just last year.”

“Does she no longer run that deck?” Flash asked.

“According to rumors, she still runs the deck but went about adding more to the recipe. It’s an unknown we can’t account for, so it will be up to you to deal with it as it comes.”

“Having an unknown in the mix gets me fired up.” Astral declared. “Whatever she has, I’ll meet it head on.”

“Is there anything we should know about Sweetie Bell?” Twilight asked.

You would think Twilight and Flash would be the most knowledgeable on their opponents given who they’re friends were; however, these archetypes were unlike anything those four used before entering the World League.

“There isn’t much other than to not let your guard down.” Luna stated. “She may not have had any deck shake ups that we know of or make it to the tournament; however, she has powerful allies to practice with and is on this team.”

“It doesn’t matter how strong they got or are.” Blaze stated plainly. “I’ll still win.”

Yugioh: Road to Quantum Opening

( watch?v=WXx21ivOCLU)

Don't you dare replace

Your first and only want

(Young Flash Sentry stares up at Flash Industries with his father and brother as Magnus ruffles their hair.)

Don't give up on the chase

Keep holding on!

(Teenage Flash is riding through Canterlot atop a duel runner before coming to a stop outside the open gates of a large complex with multiple buildings.)

Everything had gone to failure

(Young Flash stands in front of Canterlot Middle Schools statue and watches in despair as young Twilight, Fluttershy, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash leave him going separate ways from himself and each other.)

My ambition turned into my broken dreams

(Flash is sent flying outside a building and into the grace outside as lighting arcs through the sky followed by thunder. Soon, it begins to storm on him.)

I left a promise out to die

(Flash kneels beside his younger brother, Forward Base, who is currently crying. He stands before facing Ethan with a determined expression.)

Every word I still remember

(Young Flash is standing on the roof as a young Sunset is waiting for him.)

They've been ringing in my head on full repeat

(The scene transitions to the park at night as Flash stands across from Sunset in shock while she laughs at him. His fists clench and he activate his black duel disc causing a blue energy blade to appear.)

Can't get your talk to ever leave my mind

(Young Flash is panting with tears in his eyes as he stands in the middle of his father's home office with books having been scattered. Anything that could be wrecked was.)

But now, from the clouds

There's a wind that gives me a boost

(Young Flash sits on his knees before a coffee table. Laid out before him is a blank deck of cards, his laptop, and a flash drive. He inserts the flash drive into the computer and plays a video.)

My heart, burning hard

Is about to light my fuse

(Young Flash watches as his father appears on screen. After a moment, his expression changes from sorrow and anger to a proud smile.)

(Let's try again!)

Live in the now and break your confines

Take ahold of this precious time (precious time)

(Flash is in his room as the sun shines through the window and her finishes packing his things. He tucks the blank deck into his deck box before walking out of the room.)

Glory days (glory days)

'Cause your life is not to trade

(Flash is seen walking down the sidewalk with Shadow Lock conversing happily with him before they enter a car and drive off.)

(Let's try again!)

Bring back the color as you advance

Paint it red, and then take a chance (take a chance)

(Young Flash and Shadow Lock stand across from each other in a room of the decaying Duel Sanctuary. Both wield black duel disk as Flash's blue energy blade and Shadow's black energy blade come out.)

Shout it loud (shout it loud)

'Cause your style's worth a bow

(Flash stands outside the sanctuary and stares down the stairs as he imagines a transparent version of his brother running up to meet him before he vanishes. Rather than be sad, Flash gives a small smile before walking back inside.)

Don't you dare replace

Your first and only want

(Teen Flash gets off his duel runner and looks back at the transparent version of his younger self who smiles and gives him a thumbs up before vanishing. Flash smiles and puts his hands in his pockets before walking onto the grounds of the large complex.)

Don't give up on the chase

Keep holding on!

(Flash looks up at the building as he draws closer to the entrance with a look of resolve. He stops as transparent version of the Humane 6 as their current ages appear before him. Flash nods to them before they vanish. He then walks into the building.)

Canterlot Park
Sweetie Bell stood before a gathered crowd with a head set on. “Ladies and Gentlemen of Canterlot, it is an honor to be back for Duel Crusaders first official match of the season. For those of you who don’t remember me, I’m Sweetie Bell.

My friends over there are Scootaloo and Spike.” Two of the remaining three members were behind a boom box. “For those of you who don’t know, it is customary for me to put on a show, so I’ll let’s get this started.”

The crowd cheered as Sweetie Bell held up her white with purple accent duel disk before playing Trickstar Band Sweet Guitar. A fairy with crazy light purple and blue hair appeared behind her. She wore a black and blue dress and held a light purple guitar.

Band Sweet began playing her guitar while Spike and Scootaloo played the boombox at the same time adding in more instruments to the mix. A nice, upbeat tune began to play that the gathered audience were getting into.

(Yu-Gi-Oh! ARC-V, Can You Feel the Power Instrumental. - YouTube)

Can you feel the power

You vs. me competition for the victory

I could be the best one day and make history

Swing into action are you ready to play

Challenge anyone anywhere any day

You wanna take a chance go ahead and roll the dice

See if it's in your cards if you will pay the price

Activate the spell let your powers come to life

It is showtime who will win the fight

I'm ready to duel go head and make your move

I’ll win this duel

You can't beat my moves

I’m in that groove

I know I can’t lose

Your turn your tricks

Now what will you choose

Can you feel the power

I’ll win this duel

You can't beat my moves

I’m in that groove

I know I can’t lose

Your turn your tricks

Now what will you choose

Can you feel the power

Sweetie Bell always put her entire being into singing, and it paid off as the people boisterously cheered. “Thank you, everyone! That is one of a few songs I intend to sing, but before I get to more, let’s hear a cheer for my entire team even if our leader could not be here.”

The crowd gave big cheer.

Spike whispered over to his teammate. “By the way, where is Apple Bloom?”

“She’s currently over at Harmonious Element trying to get the scoop.” Scootaloo whispered back. “Not only is Blaze now on a team, but we don’t know anything about the other duelist.”

“Ah, that makes sense.” Spike stated.

Sweetie Bell spoke up getting their attention. “Alright, time for our next song, so let’s hit it!”

Harmonious Element Compound, Outside the Training Room
Speaking of Apple Bloom, she was currently hidden in a bush, but she wasn’t there alone. She had brought a brown, and white furred dog with her. The pair were currently just outside the training room hoping someone was dueling inside.

If not, she’d have to head over to their arena, but from what she saw, staying hidden would be a little harder. She held her dog up as she peaked into the window where she could see Astral and Twilight dueling.

“That’s Twilight!” Apple Bloom whisper shouted to Winona in shock. “I didn’t think she’d be one of the duelists for Harmonious Element.”

Inside the Training Room
Astral’s Field (LP: 2000/Hand: 0)
Cyber Dragon(LV 5/2100/1600)
0 Set Cards

Twilight’s Field (LP: 1000/H: 0)
0 Monsters
1 Set Card

“Alright Twilight, with your Breaker gone, I’ll end my turn.” Astral declared. “Show me what you got!”

“Since you insist, I won’t hold back. My turn!” Twilight drew. “I activate my face down Call of the Haunted to revive Dark Magician(LV 7/2500/2000) from my grave.” The purple robed and haired magician appeared.

“You may have your ace back but destroying Cyber Dragon doesn’t defeat me.” Astral declared. “Next turn, I’ll draw something awesome to win this duel!”

“Sorry Astral, but there won’t be a next turn.” Twilight declared. “The card I drew was Thousand Knives. With this, my dark Magician can destroy any one monster you control. Your Cyber Dragon is the only target.”

Dark Magician waved his staff summoning multiple knives which launched at Cyber Dragon until the damage was too great causing the monster to explode.

“Cyber Dragon!” Astral yelled.

“Now, Dark Magician will finish this with a direct attack.” Twilight declared. “Go Dark Magic Attack!” Dark Magician generated a sphere of magic which hit Astral (Astral 0/Twilight 1000). “I think dueling Astral this much is great preparation for the two of us.”

“You won another duel, but that doesn’t matter Twilight.” Astral pointed at her. “I’ll just keep getting better and better with every duel. Before you know it, I’ll beat you.” He ran out the door. “Just you wait!”

Bush Outside
“That one duelist has energy to spare.” Apple Bloom ducked back down in the bush. “Not to mention, that was Twilight I saw. A Dark Magician user and what looks like a Cyber Dragon user. That’s tricky.” She looked to her dog. “What do you…”

Apple Bloom stopped as she realized Winona wasn’t there anymore

Before she could frantically look for her, Apple Bloom heard a familiar voice. “Hey, get back here! That was my dad’s favorite wrench!”

Harmonious Element Compound
Flash had been walking his dual runner to work on it in the open since it was such a nice day. A wrench with Flash Magnus’ name was loosely held in his hand. This had been his favorite wrench and was one of the few items Flash had left from him.

Then a brown and white furred dog came barreling out of the nearby bush nabbing it from his hand before running off. “Hey, get back here!” Flash gave chase. “That was my dad’s favorite wrench!”

Apple Bloom stepped out with a sweat drop and scratched her face as the two of them were already far off in the distance. “This isn’t good.”

Mess Hall
Winona barreled into the mess hall with Flash hot on her heels.

“This isn’t a game!” Flash exclaimed. “Drop the wrench please!”

Zack had been eating a late lunch comprised of a turkey sandwich, bowl of fruit, and glass of water, curtesy of Saffron, when he saw Flash chasing a dog with a wrench in its mouth.

“Huh, that’s unexpected.” Zack thought calmly.

Saffron took note of this as Flash was now chasing Winona around the room. “Flash, what is going on? Is that your dog?”

“This dog does look familiar, but there’s no way it could be Winona.” Flash continued to chase the dog. “I don’t know whose dog this is, but they have my father’s wrench. Speaking of which…” He addressed the dog. “… please give me that wrench little doggy!”

Suddenly, there was a whistle which drew the dog’s attention. This led her out of the mess hall followed by Flash.

Outside
Apple Bloom held out her arms and Winona jumped into them before wagging her tail happily. She even barked while still holding the wrench in her mouth.

“Please give me the…” Flash began.

He skidded to a stop before Apple Bloom and stared at her in disbelief. It was one thing to see a picture of them, but it was a whole other thing to come face to face with one of the siblings of his friends.

“I’m really sorry about this Flash.” Apple Bloom looked at Winona and put a hand on the wrench. “That’s a bad girl Winona. Release this wrench, or you’re not getting treats for a week.”

Winona whined but complied releasing the wrench.

Apple Bloom promptly wiped and held it out to Flash with a sincere expression. “Again, I’m mighty sorry for Winona. I’ve been going a little liberal with the treats, so I’m sure she was expecting one for bringing me this.”

Flash took the wrench before looking at her. “No problem, Apple Bloom.”

“You actually remember me?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Well, yeah.” Flash shook his head. “Kind of hard to forget one of four children I babysat whenever Fluttershy was busy.” He sighed. “You four really liked my extra cards considering the number of times I had to pick them up off the floor when you were done with them.”

“Can you blame us?” Apple Bloom asked with puffed out cheeks. “You had so many cards, and our big sisters loved to duel.”

“At the time, I wasn’t a fan, but what I wouldn’t give to go back to those days.” Flash shook his head. “That’s not important. Apple Bloom, what are you doing here?”

“Oh…” Apple Bloom laughed unconvincingly. “… I wanted to introduce myself to the newest team in the World League. I had no idea you and Twilight were members though.”

“Man, you’re terrible at lying just like AJ.” Flash declared. “Look, I’ll help you out, but you can’t do things like this. Coming into another team’s compound uninvited can mean big trouble.”

“It’s not like I’d have been caught if I kept a better watch on Winona.” Apple Bloom mumbled under her breath.

“That’s not the point.” Flash rubbed a hand over his face. “Just because you wouldn’t have been caught, doesn’t mean you should do it. I’m only saying this because I’d prefer it if you stayed out of trouble.”

“Yeah, I guess.” Apple Bloom sighed. “I’m sorry Flash.”

“Just, don’t let this happen again.” Flash started walking. “I’m assuming you jumped the wall, so I’m sending you back over.”

Apple Bloom came to walk with him, and there was silence until she decided to bring up something that was on her mind. “Hey Flash, has my sister contacted you since the day of your suspension?”

“Well, I didn’t make it easy, but I must assume she didn’t just like she hasn’t contacted Twilight.” Flash shook his head with a sigh. “None of the other girls ever contacted Twilight all this time. Why do you ask?”

“I was curious.” Apple Bloom stated. “Sweetie Bell and Scootaloo were as well. After that day, they were acting weird.”

“Weird?” Flash raised an eyebrow. “Weird how?”

“Our sisters and surrogate sister broke off contact with one another and told us to do the same with each other. The only one of us who didn’t get orders were Spike and Forward. Well, Twilight was the same as ever, and Forward went silent on his own.”

“Could this be that dark aura’s doing?” Flash remembered seeing it around his friends. “Apple Bloom, do you know if any of them dueled Sunset before the day of my suspension?”

“Uh, I think so.” Apple Bloom replied confused but deep in thought. “Come to think of it, all four of us could confirm it. At different times, they said they were going to duel Sunset, but upon their return, they didn’t seem to remember telling us as such.”

“That leaves Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy, but if they dueled Sunset, it’s likely that was her doing.” Flash shook his head. “Who am I kidding? She admitted that was her fault, but I was never sure how until this conversation with Apple Bloom.”

“Flash, do you think Sunset is behind this somehow?” Apple Bloom questioned.

“Honestly, I do.” Flash looked at Apple Bloom. “I’m not going to pretend I’m some strong duelist because quite frankly, I was awful two years ago. That said, if Sunset comes looking for a duel, do not underestimate her.”

Apple Bloom may have brushed off advice like that, but something about Flash’s eyes and posture made her rethink doing that. Finally, the pair had made it to the wall.

“We could talk more, but I don’t want to risk it.” Flash crouched and cupped his hands. “Let’s get you and Winona out of here.”

“Alright.” Apple Bloom complied.

Flash helped Apple Bloom to the top of the wall; however, she didn’t jump and looked down at him. “You know Flash, it has been great to see you again.” The youngest Apple let Winona jump down the other side. “I just want you to know that none of us believed you were the thief.”

Despite knowing his friend’s actions weren’t in their control, Flash couldn’t deny that hearing those words was relieving. Sure, Celestia believe he wasn’t the thief either, but that had been kind of ruined by her still punishing him at the time.

“Thanks, Apple Bloom.” Flash smiled. “See you at our match, and if we duel, I won’t hold back.”

Apple Bloom smiled back at him. “Same here.”

She jumped down the other side of the wall. Flash could hear footsteps running away. and once they were gone was, he walked off back towards his duel runner. He was already concocting a small fib to cover Apple Bloom having been there.

Canterlot Stadium, Day’s Later…
The stadium itself was up to date and ready to house duels. Currently, it was packed with people ready to watch the match that day.

“Hello everyone!” Autumn declared. “This is Autumn Blaze host of Blaze Talks. Once Duel Season comes, I’m one of many, humble announcers. As such, I would like to welcome you all to this momentous day. Get ready, for the match you’ve come to see begins soon!”

Outside
Team Harmonious Element, those dueling and not, were arriving with the crowds.

“I’ve been waiting for this moment all my life.” Astral pumped his fist in the air. “I’m finally in the big leagues!”

Inside
“This day is one which is held in several host cities across the world and in a wide variety of duel domes.” Autumn continued. “The match in this dome is between home team Harmonious Element and away team Duel Crusaders. Before we get started, we have an official address from one of the co-owners of team Harmonious Element. Please welcome Celestia!”

Lights dimmed before spotlights were shined on her. “It is an honor to stand before you today. When my sister and I set out to craft Harmonious Element, we dreamed of this moment. The start of it all. Standing here now, I only have one thing to say.

Duel Crusaders is an amazing team and perfect opponents to show what Harmonious Element is capable of. Weather we win or lose, you should brace yourselves, for I believe every duelist is ready to show what they’re made of. Duel Season is now open!”

A spectacular light show and smoke bombs went off as the people cheered.

“Thank you, Celestia.” Autumn declared. “With her address finished, we would like to invite our competitors to the stage. In the blue corner stands a team whose world rank continues to climb every year and comes to us from Neo Domino City. It’s team Duel Crusaders!”

The door to the hallways opened, and Duel Crusaders stepped in.

“Their captain is Apple Bloom the master of healing plants. Next there’s a girl who tames the roughest of dino, Scootaloo. Then, a boy whose potential grows each passing year, Spike. Finally, a girl whose monsters reflect her love of performing, Sweetie Bell.”

Entrance to the Red Corner
Flash, Astral, and Twilight stood at their entrance while watching things unfold on a screen nearby.

“It’s hard to believe those four can compete in the World League.” Twilight smiled. “That said, I’m happy they can, and even happier they’re our first opponents.”

“I know what you mean.” Flash nodded. “No matter what, we got to give this our all.”

Naturally, Flash and Twilight had filled everyone in on their history with this group. Well, they had left our details for now since certain things were unnecessary at this time.

“You won’t see me lacking.” Astral crossed his arms. “Even if they are friends of yours, it’s just no fun unless we give it our all.”

Harmonious Element’s Owner Box
Celestia sat on a chair while Luna stood next to her with her pad. “The crowd has little to no confidence in our team going into this match. We have to show that our team can compete or this Duel Season may be over before it begins.”

“You worry too much dear sister.” Celestia smiled. “I told you we should have gotten you a chair as well. They are perfect for relaxation.”

“How can you blame me for being wound up?” Luna questioned. “We need to make a good impression.”

“We have the ultimate ace on our team with Blaze, and I don’t see Shining Armor on that opposing team.” Celestia stated firmly. “Trust me when I say we’ll win this.”

Arena Stands
Blaze stood at the top of the stands and partially in the entryway to the halls. From here, she had been observing everything with a rather uninterested expression. Honestly, it was hard not to fall asleep, but this was one of the few times she couldn’t let it happen.

The crowd going wild over the opposing team helped. “Duel Crusaders! Duel Crusaders! Duel Crusaders!”

Not in that it enlisted any emotion, but in that it was loud enough to keep her awake.

“They are quite the popular team.” A female declared.

Blaze turned to see a black skinned woman with long, dark blue hair. and emerald, green eyes walking towards her. She wore an elegant, expensive, and black dress. Beyond that, the way she carried herself was that of someone in a position of authority.

“Who are you?” Blaze asked.

“I suppose not everyone has heard of me.” The woman stated. “I am Chrysalis, Queen of Change Land and owner of team Change Knight. My land is rather small, but my teams are well known. Far more than Harmonious Element, but I suppose that doesn’t say much, does it?”

Blaze sighed and tried to walk off.

“From where I stand, it seems Harmonious Element’s fate rides on your shoulders.” Chrysalis got her to stop. “You got them to where they are, so I’m guessing the team would implode without you. Such a pity considering no one’s ever gotten off the ground in that location.”

Blaze glanced back at the queen as she continued. “It’s not flattery to say you are good, but you’ll never beat Shining Armor training where you can’t push yourself. I mean, Celestia and Luna are relying on you, so how can you expect your team to ever challenge you?”

Blaze just closed her eyes, said nothing, and walked away while Chrysalis watched with a knowing smirk. The second rank would come to her, and of her own free will. All it took was planting the seeds. Once she had Blaze, she’d have the whole set.

Entrance to red Corner
Flash, Twilight, and Astral were starting to worry because Blaze hadn’t arrived yet.

“Where is Blaze?” Astral questioned. “Seriously, we’re about to be called.”

“Maybe she thought this duel was beneath her.” Flash stated. “We’ve seen she tends to refuse duelist she doesn’t think are worth it.”

“That is a fair point, but if she never duel in these matches, she won’t make it to the tournament.” Twilight stated.

“Excuse me.” Blaze casually stated to their right.

The three of them had been looking left, so they all jumped at her words.

“Don’t sneak up on us like that!” Astral yelled.

“Maybe once the ant become the lowest lion, I’ll take their advice.” Blaze stated. “Potentially. At this point, the only one of you I’d consider listening to is Flash. Even then, that’s only a possibility.”

“I still can’t stand her.” Astral clenched his teeth. “Lousy second ranked duelist.”

“Anyways, time to do this.” Blaze stated.

She walked towards the door and the other followed.

Arena
Autumn once more addressed the crowd. “Now, in the red corner we have our home team, so make some noise for Harmonious Element.” Only a few cheered. “Our Rank 2 duelist in the world and only match to the current Phenomenon, Blaze Sol!”

Now that got the audience cheering as it appeared, despite her attitude, Blaze was a popular duelist. “This up and comer is bold and brave. It’s Astral Flare! She’s the master of the Dark Magician and has a mind to make it work. She’s Twilight Sparkle.

Finally, we have a guy who trained for two years with a true master in dueling and learned all he had to teach, Flash Sentry. It’s quite the team Harmonious Element’s put together, so let’s hear it for them.”

The people only cheered one name. “Blaze Sol! Blaze Sol! Blaze Sol!”

“Come on, that’s just not fair.” Astral complained. “We’re here to, so some support would be nice.”

“You can’t blame them.” Twilight stated. “Technically, Blaze has been their only representation until now.”

“You just got to know how to work the crowd.” Flash was working on his duel disk. “A little technical know how goes a long way as well.”

“What are you doing?” Astral asked.

“This.” Flash pressed a final button and put the disk near his mouth. “Hello everybody!” His voice was coming through the speaker system catching everyone off guard. “Sorry for hijacking the systems, but I have something to say.

Despite Harmonious Element being one of many teams you’ve seen from Canterlot, our owners looked where no one else would. That gives us the chance to be here today. Trust me when I say we aren’t going to let them down. I know other teams have failed, but we’re here to succeed.

Have hope and believe in us. Today is the start of it all.” He ran to the center stage. “Today, Harmonious Element gives Canterlot a team they can have pride in.” He pumped his fist in the air. “This is the day we start our assent to number one in the world!”

Flash’s words were able to stir the hearts of many in the audience while others were still skeptical. In the end, it garnered enough support for the name of the team to clearly be heard.

“Harmonious Element! Harmonious Element! Harmonious Element!”

Owner Box
“That foolish boy.” Luna declared.

“It’s quite alright sister.” Celestia smiled. “Don’t you hear the cheering?”

“That’s not the point sister.” Luna stated.

“Well, I beg to differ.” Celestia stated.

As if to proof this, control had been handed back to Autumn. “Leave it to the son of our previous Phenomenon folks. The apple doesn’t fall to far from the tree. If I were a betting girl, I’d bet on Flash showing us some amazing dueling.”

Arena
Autumn continued. “Now, let’s get our team captains to the middle to discuss how today’s duels will go.” Some people in the crowd were confused. “Ah yes, I can tell some of you need an explanation. Basically, it’s up to the captains to agree how the duels will be handled.

They can choose practically anything. Some examples are Action, Speed, or Standing Dueling. It can even change from duel to duel if both competitors agree. Not to mention, there are no restrictions on how many can duel.”

The audience liked the sound of that as newcomers and longtime fans cheered together. As they cheered, Blaze and Apple Bloom met in the middle with a tablet, on a mechanical table, coming up between them.

“Hello, Blaze Sol.” Apple Bloom nodded. “I’ve heard a lot about you from Spike and Scootaloo, and I must say I was starting to think we’d never see you in the team’s bracket.”

“I would have found a way.” Blaze declared plainly. “Anyways, how do you want to handle things?”

“Duel Crusaders likes to have everyone duel.” Apple Bloom declared. “That’s why we want a knockout match. One versus one. No one’s team wins until every duelist from the opposing side loses.

To make sure everyone gets a chance, no one may duel until everyone has dueled. We’ll take it in turns to send out the first duelist for every round allowing each side the chance to respond. To keep it simple, every duel will be a standing duel. Does that sound good to you?”

“I could care less how the duels are set up.” Blaze yawned. “No matter how we duel, I’ll win. That means, my team will win no matter how my teammates perform. I’ll even send out the first duelist, and it won’t be me.”

“Spike and Scootaloo are right. Blaze is arrogant, but I can’t say it’s unearned given her ranking.” Apple Bloom nodded. “That work for me.”

The tablet on the table beeped before glowing green.

“Oh boy, we are in for quite the match ladies and gentlemen.” Autumn declared excitedly. “The team captains have decreed that we will see a knockout match. I hope you are ready because we are in for at least four duels. What a way to kick off Duel Season!”

The people cheered loudly.

With Zack
Zack was sat in the audience with his own tablet in hand. “This should prove interesting.”

Red Corner
Flash, Twilight, and Astral all sat on the rather comfortable bench as the announcement for the dueling set up came out.

“I am pumped now, and here I thought I may not get a chance to duel.” Astral smiled and jumped to his feet. “Just leave it to me guys. I’ll go in and set the stage for our victory.”

Blaze had rejoined the group.

“I’ll just be happy to duel today.” Flash declared. “You got no competition from me.”

“I have no complaints.” Twilight nodded. “If anyone knows how strong you are, it’s me.”

“In the end, it’s not up to any of you who goes in.” Blaze stated. “It’s up to me.”

“Let me guess, you’re just going to choose yourself, huh hot shot?” Astral questioned.

“Actually, I was planning on choosing you, but I have a condition.” Blaze stated.

“Really?” Astral was surprised. “What’s this condition of yours?”

“I’ve observed your dueling, and nothing impresses me about it.” Blaze declared. “If Zack hadn’t challenged me when I didn’t want it, you’d be ranked fifth rather than fourth. Not to mention, you’ve constantly challenged our rank third duelist and lost.

Realistically, our team only needs three people, so five is a stretch. That’s why, I’m giving you an ultimatum. If you go out there now and lose, you must leave the team. If you don’t, the miniscule respect I have for you will vanish.”

The other three were shocked.

“That’s not fair Blaze.” Flash stood up. “No matter how much leeway you’re given; you’re not the owner, so it’s not your decision to make.”

“Flash, it’s fine.” Astral patted his back. “Hey Blaze, I’m on board, but I got a condition of my own. If I win, you have to duel me back at the compound.”

“If you win, I’ll consider it, but it’s unlikely to happen.” Blaze stated.

“If there’s even a one percent chance, I’ll treat it as an absolute certainty.” Astral pointed his thumb at himself. “That’s how I roll.”

“You do that.” Blaze plainly replied.

“Astral, you don’t have to do this.” Twilight tried.

“Don’t worry, I got this.” Astral smiled and looked at her. “I won’t lose because we need to settle the score. I will beat you and climb the ranks. Even when I beat Blaze, I won’t take her rank. I’ll earn it by climbing on up.”

Astral walked over to a nearby podium and touched his duel disk to it.

Twilight and Flash nodded to each other before cheering him on. “Alright, it’s all you Astral!”

Blue Corner
Spike, Scootaloo, Sweetie Bell, and Apple Bloom sat together as they noticed who was picked via the screens scattered around the stadium.

“Looks like they’re going with the Cyber Dragon user.” Apple Bloom stated. “Only problem is that I don’t know what he’s really capable of.” She looked at her team. “Sorry.”

“Don’t sweat it Apple Bloom.” Scootaloo stood. “I’ll take him on and set our team up for victory.”

“That’s not the best move Scootaloo.” Sweetie Bell stated. “Whenever we get these matches, it’s usually the weakest duelist that goes from the opposing team. In the end, we all know I don’t compare to your three.”

“You shouldn’t keep saying things like that Sweetie Bell.” Spike stated sincerely. “You’re more than strong enough.”

“I never said I was content with my strength, but I’m content with my roll.” Sweetie nodded. “You three are the duelists who aim for the top, but I’m after another dream. A dream you all help me achieve.”

“Alright, Sweetie Bell.” Apple Bloom nodded. “Go out there and give it your all.”

“I always do.” Sweetie declared.

She walked over to the podium and touched her dual disk to it.

Arena
Astral and Sweetie made their way to the center of the arena.

“Looks like both sides have made their decisions.” Autumn declared. “We have the firey personality of Harmonious Elementfacing off with the singer of Duel Crusaders.”

The two duelists came to stand across from one another.

“Just because I’m younger than you, don’t go thinking this will be an easy victory.” Sweetie declared. “I’m going to give it my all for my teammates.”

“That’s the spirit.” Astral smiled. “You won’t have to worry about a thing because I never give any less than my best.”

“Alright, it’s time to start this opening duel!” Autumn declared. “Let me hear you count it down everyone!”

Everyone counted down together. “3. 2. 1. Let’s Duel!”

Both duelists activated their duel disk.

(Astral 4000/Sweetie 4000)