Deciding Fate

"The effect of the Trap Card 'Parting Ways' forcibly ends this turn's Battle Phase!"

The Trap's pulse spread out, its overwhelming energy ruthlessly suppressing the entire Field. Crystal Beast Sapphire Pegasus, which had charged halfway forward, seemed to crash into a barrier of golden lightning. It let out a muffled groan from the shock and could only be sent flying back in disarray.

Though the other Crystal Beasts had not attacked, the pressure from the Trap still pinned them firmly to the ground. Strands of electricity flickered over their bodies like shackles, leaving them unable to move.

"And the Spell Card I discarded was 'Card of Compensation,'" Kira said leisurely. "When this card is Sent to Graveyard, I draw two cards from my Deck."

"Ahhh, damn it! Even that couldn't break through!?"

Johan began clawing at his hair, making his already card-player-looking hairstyle even messier.

He had been brimming with confidence, thinking he would finally be able to reach his opponent this time. But the Battle Phase had only just begun. He had not even managed to make his first Attack Declaration before he ran into another iron wall, and somehow his Battle Phase was gone again.

It felt like he had spent ages getting ready, finally seized an opportunity to show off and land a decisive blow, only to be interrupted halfway through and forced to swallow it all back down. It was the kind of frustration that begged for release but could not be released, leaving his whole body unbearably pent-up.

"Calm down, Johan. Don't get pulled into his rhythm!"

Crystal Beast Emerald Tortoise reminded him.

"Mm, I know."

Johan took a deep breath.

"My offensive plan still had flaws. Sorry, everyone.

"My Turn is over."

"Then it's My Turn. Draw."

Kira drew, then revealed a Spell Card