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A Chaotic Flip to a Simple Remnant Game

Summary:

Chaotic. One of the most popular card games in all of Remnant. Yet, only a select few knew that it was more than just a card game and that there was a whole world where the creatures of the game roamed. But the tribes were almost constantly at war, with a mysterious past shrouding its origins. Watch as Jaune and the others battle to ensure that the worlds of Chaotic and Perim remain intact while ensuring the people of Remnant remain unaware. But with juggling between being a new CodeMaster, a huntsman-in-training, being attentive to his girlfriends, and with a new threat on the horizon, that will be far easier said than done.

Chapter Text

Years Ago

Arc Residence

'Man. Today was a killer.' Jaune Arc thought as he arrived at his family's home. Taking out his keys, Jaune unlocked and opened the front door before entering. However, he had to drag his backpack inside because of how heavy it was. 'Seriously. Do 6ème teachers know we have lives outside of school? Why do they give us so much homework? At least today is Friday.'

Sighing, Jaune put away his keys before taking off his shoes and throwing his bag on the sofa. Feeling his stomach grumble, Jaune headed to the kitchen to see if his parents had left him something to eat or prepare. Yet, he wasn't surprised when there was only a platter of veggies with some honey mustard. But Jaune didn't hold it against his parents as they were doing the best they could as he knew it was challenging to take care of eight children and make time for each of them.

Despite knowing that his parents wanted him to eat healthier, Jaune went to the other side of the kitchen where he and Saphron kept their secret stache of snacks. However, as he knelt, Jaune winced when pain shot up his leg. And he felt his arm ache as he reached for the snacks. With a tired sigh, Jaune grabbed what he felt like before putting away the stache.

'Why do some teachers always side with the bullies?' Jaune wondered, recalling how he snapped earlier and struck his bully in the face so hard that he knocked a few teeth out. However, despite clearly seeing what was happening, a teacher tried to give Jaune detention for 'unprovokedly' hitting another student. Thankfully, that didn't happen. 'Thank Oum for the principal. I knew she was just waiting for the perfect moment to expel him.'

Going to the living room, Jaune grabbed his backpack before heading up to his room to rest. While he knew he should get a head start on his homework so he didn't have to worry later, Jaune just wanted to forget for a few hours about everything that happened this week as it was hell. Plus, he was still worrying about being able to be prepared in time for when Beacon Academy starts accepting new students.

'Hopefully, that guy I met is willing to train me.' Jaune thought and hoped. However, because he was lost in thought, he failed to notice the package in his way, causing him to trip. 'Ow.'

Groaning, Jaune rubbed his head before looking to see what caused him to trip. But to his surprise, it was a rather sizable package. Curious, Jaune got up before bending to pick it up. Wondering what it was, Jaune tucked it underneath his arm before entering his room. Tossing his backpack on his desk, he moved to his desk and placed the package on it. Jaune then grabbed his box cutter and opened it to reveal lots of cards inside, along with a note. Feeling like it would provide him with some answers, Jaune picked it up and began to read it.

'Hey, kid.

I know I wasn't able to come to your last birthday since I was away on business. But the truth of the matter was that I was taking any job/mission I could get so I could earn enough lien to send you these cards. It's called Chaotic. It is widely popular here in the city of Vacuo. You might wonder why you never heard of it. That's because it is only available here at the moment. Yet, that will change as it's soon going to be sold all over Remnant, but you will have a head start over everyone else. I know you're not particularly fond of card games, but give it a try. Who knows, you might love it. And I know you have a sharp mind. Perhaps, with a little bit of practice, you might become a master and discover a whole new world in the process. Not to mention, you will gain a brand new perspective on how the game is played and how your creatures feel during battles. Also, I included instructions and a code scanner to help you get started. The instructions are self-explanatory. But the code scanner is to help you keep track of everything... and help you in the future when you arrive at the new place. Have fun!'

'Your favorite aunt,

Ivory Arc.'

'PS: If you see a Chaotic Email appear on your scroll, laptop, or scanner, use the code it comes with immediately. I promise you that you won't regret it. Just make sure to keep it to yourself and don't tell anyone else about it. Also, you may want to make sure you are properly dressed when doing so.'

'A whole new world and perspective? Knowing how my creatures feel during fights? Arriving at a new place? What is Auntie Ivy talking about?' Jaune wondered, slightly worried that his aunt suffered an accident during her work and was now making things up. 'That or she still thinks I am a little kid, WHICH I AM NOT! I AM ELEVEN YEARS OLD!'

Sighing, Jaune put down the letter, figuring he could ask his aunt what she meant the next time she came to visit. Reaching back inside the box, Jaune began meticulously pulling out the cards and placing them on his desk. However, he soon slowed down as he began examining the artwork of the cards. While he didn't know what some of the monsters were, Jaune had to admit they all looked pretty cool, if a bit ugly, creepy, or scary. And that was only the 'creature' cards. The places in the 'location' cards seemed like they were straight out of his favorite comics. After a few more minutes of looking through the cards, Jaune looked between his backpack and the cards.

'Well... it is the weekend after all. I guess I can try to learn to play this game first and do my homework tomorrow or Sunday. Hopefully, it's not too difficult to learn.' Jaune thought, looking at the cards. Shrugging, Jaune reached inside the box and pulled out the code scanner and instruction book. But he then remembered something. ' Wait. It's popular in Vacuo. Maybe May plays it. Perhaps we could even play against each other. Well... if there is an online version, that is.'

Present Day

*RRRRRIIIIIIINNNNNNGGGGG*

"Alright. That is the bell. Have a good weekend, everyone." Glynda said as she went to her desk.

All the students sighed as they packed up their stuff, glad that classes were now for the week and they could finally rest. But while the others left the classroom, Jaune made his way to his teacher's desk, causing her to smile. Acting like she didn't notice her lover approaching her, Glynda continued organizing all the papers on her desk. Silently chuckling, Jaune moved to stand behind one of his lovers. He smiled before raising his hands and gently grabbing and squeezing Glynda's arms. Jaune then leaned down and began peppering Glynda's soft, creamy neck with delicate kisses.

"Oh, Mr. Arc." Glynda moaned, closing her eyes and enjoying the treatment her lover was giving her.

"I love hearing you moan like this." Jaune said, causing Glynda to chuckle internally. Yet, she let out a blissful sigh and felt her heart fill with warmth when Jaune wrapped his arms around her in a loving embrace, with his head next to hers. Glynda lifted her hands, grabbed Jaune's arms, and gave them a gentle squeeze while leaning into his embrace. "But I love this even more."

"Same. I wish we could be like this all the time."

"Maybe not right now. But we'll be able to do this far more often in the future." Jaune said before kissing Glynda's cheek. "Along with the others."

"I'm sure the others would like that as well." Glynda hummed. Despite it being a few months already, Glynda was still shocked that she was essentially in a harem with Mr. Arc. Yet, it was a very loving one... in more ways than one. Speaking of which. "Will I still be seeing you in my office tomorrow night?"

"Of course. I wouldn't miss it for the world."

"Good. And just so you know, a special guest will be with us."

"Alright." Jaune said, chuckling as he already knew who it was.

"Now, off with you. I still have work to do, and your friends are probably wondering where you are."

"Okay. See you later, Glynda." Jaune said before kissing Glynda on the lips.

"Goodbye, Mr. Arc." Glynda said.

With a final kiss, Jaune separated from Glynda before exiting the classroom.

Ten Minutes Later

"Hey, guys." Jaune said as he arrived in the cafeteria, where his friends were already waiting for him.

"Hey, Jaune." Ruby said, pouting as the rest of her team forced her to eat a vegetable salad with chicken instead of her usual cookies with strawberries for lunch.

"Hey, Jaune." The rest of Team Rwby said, never taking their eyes off the young reaper. Jaune wondered why but got his answer when Ruby tried to sneak a cookie into her mouth. Yet, it never made it as Blake snatched it away before giving it to Yang, who crushed it.

"How was class with Ms. Goodwitch?" Ren asked as Jaune sat beside him.

"Exhausting." Jaune answered with a sigh.

"For what reason? Studying or... something else more... misbehaving-like?" Yang asked, raising her eyebrow.

"Yang. You know Ms. Goodwitch doesn't like it when we misbehave." Ruby said, inadvertently showing off her innocence.

"Yeah. She likes order and hates it when we misbehave. That's why I have to meet with her tomorrow afternoon to discuss my behavior and how I can improve." Jaune said, trying to keep a straight face while Blake and Yang smirked. Weiss acted like she was repulsed by the hidden meaning, but the rest knew she was also internally smirking. And they were all equally impressed at how Jaune got into so many relationships simultaneously.

"Well, either way. At least you have the rest of the day to rest and tomorrow morning to prepare." Pyrrha said, leaning against her boyfriend.

"True." Jaune said, wrapping his arm around Pyrrha before kissing her head. "So, what are everyone else's plans for the weekend?"

"Well, I am meeting with my sister this Sunday after you had your punishment." Weiss said, still feeling conflicted about Arc dating her sister.

"Wow. You must have really messed up if Glynda asked Winter to come." Ruby said, still unaware of everything.

"Unfortunately." Jaune said, playing along.

"Well, while that is going on, Ruby and I are heading home to visit our parents." Yang said, with Ruby nodding.

"Nothing really for me aside from maybe catching up on some of my reading." Blake said. "What about you?"

"Well, Pyrrha and I are about to head into town to play Chaotic." Jaune answered. "But since you're not doing anything, Blake. Care to join us?"

"Well... I have been wanting to learn how to play the game for quite a while." Blake began. "But another time, since I have a lot of homework that I want to get out of the way. Perhaps Sunday."

"If it is in the morning, then sure. But it won't work after that since Pyrrha and I are going on another date Sunday afternoon."

"But speaking of dates. Are you going to meet up with anyone else special?" Yang asked, smirking.

"Nope. It will just be Pyrrha, me, and one of my friends."

"Sure." Yang said, rolling her eyes before turning to Pyrrha. "What about you, Cereal Girl?"

"Aside from going into town today and our date Sunday, I have nothing planned. I am expecting a call from my mum later today, though." Pyrrha answered.

"What about you two?" Weiss asked, looking at Ren and Nora.

"Renny and I are going on a date tomorrow." Nora said.

"Well, for the weekend. We're heading across town to attend a few festivals." Ren added.

"That's nice." Weiss said.

"So, what time are you two lovebirds going into town?" Yang asked.

"Right after we finish eating." Pyrrha answered.

"Do you know when you two are coming back?" Ren asked.

"Most likely tomorrow since the bullheads are scheduled for maintenance later tonight." Jaune answered.

"Alright. Just text us if that changes."

"Will do." With that said, both teams resumed eating while talking about anything else interesting that had been happening. But the rest of them, minus Ruby, did smirk and chuckle at a blushing Jaune when Pyrrha decided to get a bit more frisky and daring as they cuddled each other.

Half an Hour Later

"Ready?" Jaune asked.

"Ready." Pyrrha said as they picked up their code scanners and decks.

"Then let's go."

Nodding, Pyrrha and Jaune exited the dorm before grabbing each other's hands. They then made their way out of the school and toward the bullheads. Paying their tickets, they boarded the bullhead and took their seats. But no sooner than they did, Pyrrha pulled out Jaune's motion sickness pills and made him take one. Once he did, Pyrrha leaned against her boyfriend, who wrapped his arm around her as they felt the bullhead slowly ascend before taking off.

"So, what do you want to do once we arrive?" Pyrrha asked.

"Where do you mean? The shop or the other place?" Jaune asked.

"The shop first."

"Well, we can see if anything new has arrived and maybe watch some other people play. I might also get a new deck box since mine is getting a bit worn out."

"Same. I might also get a new game mat and card sleeves."

"But after that, we'll go to the other place. From there, we'll meet up with May, grab a bite to eat, and maybe battle a bit before heading to Perim to look for new things to scan."

"Alright. But let's be more careful this time. Even though there is a fragile peace between the tribes, there is still a lot of tension."

"True. I don't want to end up in between two warring tribes again."

"Which would make you miss your date with Glynda and Winter." Pyrrha said. "And ours and the others."

"Yeah. That's the last thing I want to happen." Jaune said, pulling Pyrrha closer to kiss her on her lips, which she happily returned. "I'd rather spend time doing this with you and the others."

"Same." Pyrrha said before snuggling into her lover. Feeling like they could sneak in a quick nap, Jaune and Pyrrha closed their eyes and fell asleep.

Forty Minutes Later

"Alright. We're here." Pyrrha said as they arrived at the card shop.

"Then let's head in." Jaune said.

Nodding, the two headed inside the store. They smiled as they took in the musty and fresh scent of recently opened cards and packs that had been out a bit too long. Looking around, Pyrrha and Jaune saw numerous others playing various board or card games. But neither were surprised to see the most popular one was Chaotic. All the computers were in use, and the nearby tables were fully occupied by those who prefered to play with physical cards.

"Honestly, despite knowing how popular Chaotic was when it was only available in the City of Vacuo, I am still shocked by how fast it gained its popularity." Pyrrha said.

"Same. But I was more shocked by what happens when you gain enough skill to see how others play the game." Jaune added.

"Yeah."

"Wait. Doesn't everything reset once the action step is over?" A random voice said.

"No. I think it is the end of my turn when that happens." Another voice said. Turning to where it came from, Pyrrha and Jaune saw two kids playing by themselves at one of the tables near the back. One was a male faunus with mouse ears, while the other was a female with tiger eyes. Wondering what was happening, they walked over to them.

"Is everything alright?" Pyrrha asked, thankful she had put on her disguise before they had left Beacon.

"Huh?" The mouse faunus asked, surprised.

"We heard your guys shout. We came over to see if everything was alright." Jaune said.

"Oh, everything is alright. We are just confused about something." The tiger faunus said.

"About what exactly?" Pyrrha asked, grabbing some nearby chairs so they could sit.

"It's about Chaotic. Do you know how to play it?" The mouse faunus asked.

"Yeah. You could say that." Jaune said, internally smirking.

"So what's the question?" Pyrrha asked.

"Well, first. We're still trying to remember all the technical terms and what goes where." The mouse faunus said.

"But the part we are having trouble with is wondering at what point does everything reset." The tiger faunus said.

"We heard about it from some forum online. But we don't remember seeing it in the rulebook."

"Now, we are trying to recall when everything resets. We're split between it being after action or right before it becomes my turn."

"Oh, yeah. I remember learning about that a while ago." Jaune said.

"I understand they wanted to save space on the cards, but they could have left a reminder or updated the rulebook about it." Pyrrha said.

"So... when does it reset?" The tiger faunus asked, curious.

"After combat, the active player can move more creatures if they want, but only if they can. And after that, but right before the other player starts their turn, everything resets. All damage is removed from creatures, and their energy is returned to how it was before combat." Jaune answered.

"Additionally, all effects of attacks, mugic, activated effects, and triggered effects also end." Pyrrha added.

"So, let's say your Kaal creature took forty damage from combat." Jaune said, pointing to the mouse faunus's card. "Once the active player's turn ends, its energy will return to fifty."

"Another example is if your Tassanil had expanded its element type and a mugic card had reduced its courage to forty-five." Pyrrha said, pointing to the tiger faunus's card. "It would regain its element, and its courage would return to normal."

"Alright." The mouse and tiger faunus said.

"Any other questions?" Jaune asked.

"Yeah. What happens when you run out of attack cards?" The tiger faunus asked.

"When that happens, you gather all your attack cards from the general discard pile and shuffle them to make a new deck."

"The same goes for your location cards. But that is unlikely to happen." Pyrrha added.

"Thanks. I think we can handle it from here." The mouse faunus said.

"Alright. But don't hesitate to ask for help. While it might not be as confusing or as difficult as other card games, it can still take a while to get the hang of it." Jaune said as he and Pyrrha stood up.

"We will." The tiger faunus said.

"And just as a side note. All battlegear cards start face down and only flip up once combat begins. The only exceptions are those with the effect that state they start face up." Nodding, both faunus returned to the game. And despite already seeing them make a few mistakes, Jaune and Pyrrha could tell they were getting the hang of it.

"How long did it take you to learn how to play the game?" Pyrrha asked as they moved away from the others.

"It took me about five months to really get the hang of it. But that's because May was teaching me how to play." Jaune answered.

"So you pretty much mastered the game before everyone else got a chance to learn about it."

"I wouldn't go that far."

"Well, either way. You were far ahead of the rest of us. Plus, I am glad that you had some childhood friends, Jaune." Pyrrha said, smiling.

"Why is it so hard to believe that I had friends?" Jaune asked.

"Would you like the list alphabetically or chronologically?" Pyrrha asked, causing Jaune to roll his eyes. "Anyway. Shall we check out some new cards before heading to the other place?"

"Sure." Jaune answered as they made their way to the counter where an employee was working. The employee saw them coming and smiled. "Hey, Jett. How's it going?"

"It's going well, kid." Jett answered. "So, what can I get you and your girlfriend?"

"Some new card packs, please." Pyrrha answered.

"Alright. And you're in luck. We got a fresh batch this morning." Jett said as he reached behind the counter and grabbed two boxes before placing them on the counter. "How many?"

"Three each. And that will be twenty-two lien." Jaune answered.

"Here you go." Pyrrha said as she gave Jett the lien.

"Thanks. And good luck."

Nodding, Pyrrha and Jaune went to one of the few remaining open tables. Sitting down, they opened their packs before taking out their scrolls and opening up the notes app. Even though they knew they might not get cards with the best stats, Pyrrha and Jaune knew that did not mean they were useless. It just meant they had to come up with new strategies, which was part of the fun of Chaotic. Plus, it allowed them to spend even more time together.

Ten Minutes Later

"Alright. Did you come up with any new strategies?" Jaune asked as they exited the shop.

"Well... yes. But not for the deck I am currently using. They are for the UnderWorld Tribe. And I am not a big fan of using them." Pyrrha answered as they made their way to an empty clearing. "What about you?"

"Not much luck either. The only new card I got was Recurring Rescue. The rest are cards that I already have."

"looks like the heart of the cards wasn't with us this time." Pyrrha said, causing Jaune to chuckle.

"So, shall we head to Chaotic now?" Jaune asked as they arrived.

"Yes."

Nodding, they separated and took out their code scanners. Jaune and Pyrrha then entered their password to unlock the special app only a select few Chaotic players could gain access to. And even though they were alone, Jaune and Pyrrha still looked around to ensure no one else was watching them. They then entered their personal codes into the app, which showed them the Chaotic symbol after they pressed enter. Pyrrha and Jaune stepped away as a bright light enveloped their bodies. And once it disappeared, Pyrrha and Jaune were no where to be seen.

Chaotic Port Court

"Damn. I don't think I will ever get used to traveling this way." Jaune said as they appeared in the Port Court.

"It is a bit jarring." Pyrrha agreed as they stepped off the pads. "But at least now it is not as bad as when we first started."

"True. I remember throwing up quite a bit each time I came here or returned to Remnant."

"So, where are we supposed to meet May?" Pyrrha asked, looking around and not seeing the girl in question.

"I'm... not sure. May said she would be waiting here for us in the Port Court. But I'm not seeing her." Jaune said. However, no sooner than he said this, he heard her voice.

"There's the future CodeMaster of Chaotic." May said. Turning around, Pyrrha and Jaune saw May Zedong approaching them. "Hey, guys."

"Hey, May. Good to see you." Pyrrha said, smiling.

"Good to see you, Nikos." May said before turning to her childhood friend. "Hey, blondie."

"Hey, May." Jaune said as they hugged each other before separating. "Sorry to keep you waiting."

"It's fine. I just got here not too long ago. So, how have things been for you two?"

"Mostly fine." Pyrrha answered with a shrug. While everything was peaceful, the amount of homework they had, plus dealing with her sponsors really made her want to bash her head against the nearest wall.

"Mostly tiring for me." Jaune said.

"I can imagine since you are somehow dating eight others simultaneously." May said, smirking.

"Anyway."

"Shall we go now?" Pyrrha asked.

"Actually. We're waiting for someone else." May said, surprising Jaune and Pyrrha.

"Who?" Jaune asked, curious.

"That would be me." A familiar voice said. And as they said this, Jaune felt someone jump onto his back. Briefly, Jaune wondered who it could be. But the scent and sight of dirty blonde hair gave him his answer.

"Hey, Arslan." Jaune said, chuckling, as his other girlfriend got off his back.

"Hey, Jaune." Arslan said as they shared a quick kiss.

"What are you doing here? I thought you couldn't make it this week." Pyrrha asked, curious.

"Hey, Nikos. And yeah. I thought so, too. But I managed to catch a lucky break. Too bad the same can't be said for Reese since she really wanted to come."

"Well, tell her I will make it up to her during our date next week." Jaune said.

"You better." Arslan said with a teasing smile. She then grabbed her boyfriend's right hand while Pyrrha grabbed the other. "Anyway. What do you guys want to do first?"

"How about we do a quick battle before heading into Perim?" May suggested.

"Sure." Pyrrha, Arslan, and Jaune answered.

Nodding, they headed to the nearest monorail that would take them to their prefered BattleDrome. But they did order some Frafdo Fries from one of the service robots before getting on, as they figured they would be in Perim for quite a while.

"So..." Arslan began as the monorail took them to their destination.

"So..." Jaune began, curious.

"Are you excited?"

"About what?" Jaune asked, confused.

"Becoming a CodeMaster." May answered.

"Oh, right. Honestly, I am a bit nervous about it."

"Well, that's to be expected. They are basically masters of the game." Pyrrha said.

"Which they need to be since they are responsible for keeping everything in check." May added.

"True. I just hope I am ready for such a battle." Jaune nervously said. Yet, he calmed down when Arslan and Pyrrha leaned into him.

"Don't be." Pyrrha said.

"We know you'll do just fine." Arslan added with May nodding.

"Thanks." Jaune said, smiling. They entered a comfortable silence as they made their way to the BattleDrome.

Ten Minutes Later

Imthor Drome

"Alright. Here we are." Jaune said as they got off the monorail and walked the rest of the way toward the Imthor Drome.

"So, who will be on whose team?" Arslan asked.

"Well... it has been a while since we have been on the same team. So, how about Jaune and me vs you two?" May suggested.

"Sure."

"Sounds good to me." Pyrrha said.

"It looks like the teacher and student are teaming up again." Jaune said, causing May to roll her eyes as they arrived at the BattleDrome. However, before they could get in, a voice stopped them.

"Hold on there." The voice said. Turning to where it came from, Arslan, Jaune, Pyrrha, and May were surprised to see Imthor Drome's CodeMaster heading toward them.

"Is something wrong, CodeMaster Imthor?" Jaune nervously asked.

"Nothing's wrong. I just needed to inform you about your future position as CodeMaster." Imthor answered.

"Did something happen?" Pyrrha asked.

"I thought he met all the requirements." May said, slightly worried.

"He does. But the other CodeMasters decided to place him in charge of the Beta Drome."

"I thought that place didn't need a CodeMaster." Arslan said, confused.

"Typically, no. But we decided to fully commit to it being a training Drome and have newcomers get used to everything there rather than just throwing them at random players. Plus, while players can adjust some rules, they must still follow the rest. Jaune here will ensure that happens." Imthor explained.

"Oh. Alright. Thanks for letting me know." Jaune said, slightly relieved. But at the same time, he was still nervous.

"You're welcome. Now, are you four going to play?"

"Yes." They answered.

"Alright. Head on in. And give me a moment so I can get to my spot to watch." Imthor said before leaving.

"Talk about some good news." Pyrrha said, smiling.

"Looks like you're going to be a trainer in addition to being a CodeMaster." Arslan said.

"Congrats, Jaune." May said.

"Thanks. But I still need to win the final battle before actually becoming a CodeMastter." Jaune said, blushing.

"Which you will. We have faith in you." Pyrrha assured.

"Now, let's head inside. I'm itching to get this battle underway." Arslan said.

Nodding, they headed inside the Imthor Drome and made their way to the battle area. Jaune and May stood on one side of the arena while Pyrrha and Arslan stood across from them. Taking out their Code Scanners, they docked them into the stands, with screens appearing above them right after. And almost instinctively by this point, all four of them began selecting their creatures, mugic cards, battlegear, and location cards.

'Time for my Arrthoa, Captain of the Ezoa, to shine. But since I know Arslan's moves, I better equip him with AZAIA Mindprobe to give him some protection. And the Prelude of Protection mugic card wouldn't hurt, either. And typically, I would use Foothold Assault Trench since I only use Overworld cards. But it wouldn't work this time since May uses Mipedian Creatures. However, Arrthoa does let creatures with the water element automatically pass wisdom checks. And OverWorld Embassy at Mipedim Oasis gives Mipedian creatures that water element.' Jaune thought as he added the cards. 'There. That should do it. Now, it's all up to May.'

'Okay. I know Jaune, so he probably forgone some of his usual cards to help me out. And that means I don't have to worry about wisdom checks, which is good since Arslan needs to beat us in Wisdom Checks for her creature's effect to go off, and my Maliph, Guard of the Palace, has terrible wisdom stats. But still, it doesn't hurt to be on the safe side. So, I'll add Residual Lightning Dust since Arslan prefers single hard hits over weak, numerous attacks. And to top it off, I'll use my Crystal Cave location card.' May thought as she added her cards before confirming them.

'Okay. This might be a problem. I generally go with Viqtarr since he is my go-to creature. But his effect only goes off when he wins both Courage and Wisdom checks. Yet, Jaune probably made it so that never happens. So I will go with Illiar instead. And that means changing my usual cards. I'll use Armor of Earthen Might as my battlegear card instead of Ring of Na'arin since I will need to reduce as much incoming damage as possible. Ecstatic Fanfare is also out since it increases my stats, and that won't make too much of a difference with Illiar. But Symphony of Shielding will as it will reduce Mugic and attack damage to zero.' Pyrrha thought as she confirmed her cards. ' Now, all that is left is my location cards.'

'Hmm. I might need to play support and help Nikos. So, I will use Intress. Her ability will allow our creatures to gain five energy for each element they have. And to make her tankier, I will add the mugic card Harmonious Highsong. Typically, it just heals thirty damage. But since Nikos also primarily uses Overworld creatures, it will give her thirty more energy, allowing her to possibly survive whatever Jaune and May might throw at her. Lastly, I will use Nexus Fuse to boost my energy and to give me an option to end their creatures if they just need a little bit more damage.' Arslan said as she finished by adding her location cards. "Alright. Ready?"

"Ready." Pyrrha, May, and Jaune answered.

'Battleboard locked. Field of play revealed.' The AI said before showing the location they would be fighting at first. 'Gorram's Briefing'

"Yes." Pyrrha and Arslan said, happy that one of their location cards was chosen. Yet, that changed by what the AI said next, followed by the creatures appearing on the screen.

'However. Due to the innate ability of May's Maliph, Surprise, her creature gets to attack first.'

"Damn."

'May Zedong. Choose your attacking creature and target creature, along with your attack card.' The AI said the screen showed the creatures and the battlegear that was equipped to them.

"I will choose my Maliph and target Arslan's Intress. And I will attack her with Allmageddon." May said.

'Very well. Everyone. Touch your creature cards.'

Smirking, everyone touched their respective creature's card on the screen. And as soon as they did, blue energy flowed from it and quickly surrounded them. As this happened, the room began to change to resemble Gorram's Briefing. After a few seconds, the blue energy disappeared, revealing that Jaune, May, Arslan, and Pyrrha had transformed into their respective creatures.

'Let the battle begin.'