Characters from the Yu-Gi-Oh! card game that are associated with the Abyss storyline.

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Card Archetypes

Dogmatika

Dogmatika, known as Dragma in the OCG, is an archetype of LIGHT Spellcaster-Type monsters that focuses on countering and disrupting the opponent's Extra Deck monsters. They do this by gaining boons when there are monsters that have been Special Summoned from the Extra Deck on the field, and by sending monsters directly from the Extra Deck to the Graveyard.

Lore-wise, the archetype is set on a continent called "The Abyss", isolated from the rest of the world. On that continent, a massive dimensional rift known as "The Hole" is located, and has been open for as long as anyone remembers. The Hole has a notorious reputation for swallowing entire regions whole, but on rare occasions, it is known for expelling things beyond the comprehension of the continent's residents. One time, it was an unknown form of dark matter. Another, it brought forth what appeared to be a relic from a long lost civilization. And yet another, even a life form.

Located in the far north of The Abyss is the eponymous nation of Dogmatika, a political superpower governed by "Dogmatika Maximus", whose citizens are adherents of the Dogmatika faith. Their army of crusaders eradicate heathens and heretics, and perform miracles via the "Stigmata", the mark of their faith. The followers and agents of the faith receive the Stigmata, a divine power capable of creating mysterious miracles, through the holy relic "Dogmatika Nexus", administered by "Dogmatika Maximus".

Gameplay Tropes

Back from the Dead: Via the effect of Dogmatika Encounter, the controller can take a Dogmatika monster or Fallen of Albaz from their Graveyard and either add it to their hand or Special Summon it.
Death Activated Super Power: If Adin is destroyed by battle or card effect, the controller can Special Summon a Dogmatika monster from their Deck, except Adin.
Fusion Dance: Titaniklad is a Fusion Monster that uses Fallen of Albaz and a monster with at least 2500 ATK as Fusion Materials.
Hoist by His Own Petard: Maximus and Dogmatika Nation are able to send monsters from the opponent's Extra Deck to the Graveyard. However, the opponent gets to choose what is sent. If they have any Extra Deck monsters with effects that trigger upon being sent to the Graveyard, they can use those effects to their advantage against the Dogmatika player.
Man of Kryptonite: The archetype is designed to be this towards the opponent's Extra Deck monsters, possessing effects that send monsters from the Extra Deck to the Graveyard or otherwise profit from having Extra Deck monsters on the field.
No-Sell:
- Adin, Ecclesia, and Theo all cannot be destroyed by battle with a monster Special Summoned from the Extra Deck.
- Dogmatika Nation prevents the controller's Dogmatika monsters from being targeted by either players' Extra Deck monsters.
- Titaniklad is immune to the effects of Extra Deck monsters during the turn it is summoned.
- Their ace Ritual Monster, known as White Zoa, just flat-out makes all archetypal monsters you control unaffected by the effects of your opponent's Extra Deck monsters.
Our Dragons Are Different:
- Nexus is a relic whose design incorporates two dragons, yet it is a Spellcaster-Type monster.
- Fallen of Albaz is a Dragon-Type monster, but is human in appearance and has no outward draconic traits. Titaniklad, which is Fusion Summoned using Albaz as a Fusion Material, is a more conventional looking dragon cloaked in what looks like spiked armor with streams of energy emitting from its wings.
Power Nullifier:
- If there is an Extra Deck monster on the field, Fleurdelis can be Special Summoned from the controller's hand, then if the controller controls another Dogmatika monster, they can negate the effects of a monster on the field until the end of the turn.
- The effect of Dogmatika Genesis allows the controller to return a banished Fusion, Synchro, Xyz, or Link Monster to the Extra Deck, and negate the effects of an opposing Effect Monster with the same card type.
Squishy Wizard: While every member of the archetype is a Spellcaster-Type monster, Adin fits this trope in a visual sense, as he is not a physical combatant and has a paltry 1000 ATK and 1800 DEF. He even has an effect that triggers if he is destroyed on the field, allowing the controller to Special Summon a Dogmatika monster with a different name from the Deck, implying that he isn't meant to last all that long either.
Status Effects:
- Theo can cause an Extra Deck monster targeted by his effect to lose 600 ATK, while he gains 600 ATK.
- If the monster equipped with Dogmatikacism is not a Dogmatika monster, it loses ATK equal to the number of Dogmatika monsters the controller controls x 200.
Status Buff:
- If an opponent's monster declares an attack while Ashiyan is on the field, the controller can make all of their Dogmatika monsters gain 500 ATK.
- If the controller's Dogmatika monster declares an attack while Fleurdelis is on the field, the controller can make all of their Dogmatika monsters gain 500 ATK.
- If the controller targets an Extra Deck monster, Theo gains 600 ATK, while the target loses 600 ATK.
- Titaniklad gains ATK equal to the combined original Levels of its Fusion Materials x 100.
- If the monster equipped with Dogmatikacism is a Dogmatika monster, it gains ATK equal to its Level x 100.

Story Tropes

Bowdlerize: Some of the Dub Name Changes the archetype underwent can be seen as this.
- Nexus' Japanese OCG name was Tetradragmaton, a corruption of Tetragrammaton, the four-letter transliteration of the Hebrew name of God, Yahweh. It is likely that the change occured to avoid overt religious references in the TCG.
- Titaniklad's Japanese OCG name was Bastard, a term in English that refers to persons of illegitimate birth or people of unsavory character. Due to the term's profane reputation, it is hardly surprising that the translators opted to change the card's name completely.
- The name of the archetype itself was changed from Dragma to Dogmatika, as the former could be used in a rather vulgar way as a "deez nuts" one-liner.^note
Church Militant: The archetype's members are described as followers of a religious faith that takes up arms against those they perceive to be heretical.
Gameplay and Story Integration:
- Dogmatika is gameplay-wise focused on countering Extra Deck monsters, and as such, its main "special" monsters are Ritual Monsters, which are in the Main Deck.
- Every Dogmatika effect that involves binning monsters from the Extra Deck has thematic relations to the powers of the Hole, connecting it to how the Hole throws out its "Extra Deck-related" contents.
- All of Dogmatika's opposing factions specialize in an Extra Deck summoning mechanic: Albaz specializes in Fusion Summoning, Tri-Brigade specializes in Link Summoning, Swordsouls specializes in Synchro Summoning and Springans specialize in Xyz Summoning.
Living Weapon: Nexus has not been described as anything other than a relic venerated by members of the Dogmatika faith. However, it is a Monster Card and does have ATK, and is capable of attacking, suggesting that it has some form of agency.
Light Is Not Good: Despite being LIGHT monsters and members of a religious order, it is heavily implied that the church of the Dogmatika faith are more sinister that they initially appear. A prime example of this is in the artwork of Dogmatikalamity, which depicts Maximus using energy from the Hole to transform Fleurdelis's armor into White Knight of Dogmatika.
Meaningful Name:
- The archetype's Japanese OCG name, Dragma, is a portmanteau of the words "dogma" and "dragon". The former draws from their religious theme, while the latter is likely a reference to the dragons seen on Nexus, as well as Titaniklad.
- In addition, while most of the archetype's cards use 教導 (kyoudo, "dogmatic") in their OCG names, the Ritual Monsters and Ritual Spells use the identical-sounding 凶導 (kyoudo, heretical), hinting at the true nature of the Dogmatika.
- The archetype's English TCG name, Dogmatika, is a Hungarian and Slavic word for "dogmatic". In those languages, it also translates to "body of divinity". Both uses underlie the religious theme of the archetype.
Power Tattoo: The Stigmata that grant Dogmatika their powers manifests as a mark on their body; Fleur on all four limbs, Theo on his right arm, Adin on his upper body and face, and Ecclesia on her forehead.
Religious and Mythological Theme Naming: Considering that they are Church Militants, its hardly surprising that most of its monsters' names have roots in religious traditions, particularly those of Christianity.
- Adin is a name that appears in the Old Testament and is speculated to have Jewish roots.
- Nexus's Japanese OCG name, Tertradragmaton, is a corruption of Tetragrammaton, the four letter transliteration of the Hebrew name of God, Yahweh.
- Theo is derived from the Ancient Greek work theos, which means God.
Sigil Spam: The archetype's crest is a stylized representation of Nexus.
Super-Empowering: According to the archetype's lore, Nexus is able to apply the Stigmata, a divine power capable of creating mysterious miracles, onto followers of the Dogmatika faith.
The Theocracy: The Dogmatika nation has been described as this in their lore, being a political superpower comprised of adherents to the Dogmatika faith.
With Us or Against Us: They exiled Ecclesia because she spared Fallen of Albaz instead of killing him. Fleurdelis, Theo, and Adin later left following the battle with the Tri-Brigade, joining the Swordsoul instead so they can help Albaz and Ecclesia.

Tri-Brigade

Ready... Aim...

Tri-Brigade is an archetype of Beast, Beast-Warrior, and Winged Beast monsters focusing on summoning Link Monsters of those three Types ("Tri-types"). Their Main Deck monsters can banish any number of Tri-type monsters from their Graveyard to Special Summon a Tri-type Link Monster with a Link Rating equal to the number of banished monsters.

Story-wise, the Tri-Brigade is a band of masked beastmen who arrived at the site of the battle between the Fallen of Albaz and Dogmatika, and protected the Fallen of Albaz from Dogmatika's forces. They eventually managed to extract Fallen of Albaz (and the exiled Ecclesia) to safety, and gave them a new unknown objective to move towards, which directed them to the Gold Golgonda desert.

Gameplay Tropes

Back from the Dead:
- Tri-Brigade Oath allows the controller to Special Summon a Beast, Beast-Warrior, or Winged Beast-Type monster from their hand or Graveyard with a different Type from a Link Monster they control.
- Tri-Brigade Revolt Special Summons any number of the controller's Beast, Beast-Warrior, and/or Winged Beast-Type monsters that are banished and/or in their Graveyard with their effects negated. Then, the controller has to Link Summon a Tri-Brigade Link Monster using only the Summoned monsters as Link Materials.
Fusion Dance: Brigrand is a Fusion Monster that uses Fallen of Albaz and a Level 8 or higher monster as Fusion Materials.
No-Sell:
- Brigrand cannot be destroyed by battle. Additionally, while the controller controls a Fusion Summoned Brigrand, the opponent cannot target the controller's other monsters with monster effects.
- If a linked Beast, Beast-Warrior, or Winged Beast-Type monster the controller controls would be destroyed by battle or card effect, the controller can banish Tri-Brigade Rendezvous from their Graveyard instead.
Our Dragons Are Different: Fallen of Albaz is a Dragon-Type monster, but is human in appearance and has no outward draconic traits. Brigrand, which is Fusion Summoned using Albaz as a Fusion Material, and visually resembles a dragon, is instead a Beast-Type monster, rather than a Dragon or Wyrm-Type. This is despite its full name being "Brigrand the Glory Dragon".
Power Nullifier:
- During the opponent's Main Phase, Rugal allows the controller to Special Summon a Level 4 or lower Beast, Beast-Warrior, or Winged Beast-Type monster from their hand or Graveyard. However, the Summoned monster's effects are negated, and it is returned to the hand during the End Phase.
- Tri-Brigade Airborne Special Summons a Beast, Beast-Warrior, or Winged Beast-Type monster from the controller's Deck in Defense Position with a different Type from a monster with one of those Types the controller controls, and with equal or lower ATK. The Summoned monster's effects are negated until the end of the turn. Also, the controller cannot Special Summon non-Link Monsters from the Extra Deck for the rest of the turn.
- Tri-Brigade Revolt Special Summons any number of the controller's Beast, Beast-Warrior, and/or Winged Beast-Type monsters that are banished and/or in their Graveyard with their effects negated. Then, the controller has to Link Summon a Tri-Brigade Link Monster using only the Summoned monsters as Link Materials.
Status Buff: Tri-Brigade Rendezvous allows the controller to target any number of their linked Beast, Beast-Warrior, and/or Winged Beast-Type monsters they control, with the targets gaining 700 ATK until the end of the turn.

Story Tropes

Anti-Magic: Their weapons are built specifically to nullify the Stigmata granted by Dogmatika Maximus.
Boisterous Bruiser: Kerass is described to have raw strength, and he laughs in a "Gahaha!" way, hinting at this trope. His concept art shows up lifting up a fully-weighted dumbbell with Ferrijit and Nervall sitting on it using just one arm, showing his strength.
Cool Mask: All monsters in the archetype wear one of these, except Ferrijit and Kitt, who don a pair of goggles.
Creepy Good: Even though Fraktall has terrible eyes and is terrible with words, he still has a kind heart. It's mentioned that he loves small creatures.
Dark and Troubled Past: Most of the leading members were once outcasts for various reasons, and this forms the basis of their bond.
Easily Forgiven: The leading members had more than enough reasons to despise their original tribes after being exiled as children, but after coming to bond with one another and recognizing the threat the Dogmatika Church poses, they forgave their original tribes and fought to protect them, resulting in the three tribes finally making peace and uniting under them as the Tri-Brigade.
Exhausted Eye Bags: According to the concept art, Nervall has them under his mask because his inability to sleep.
Family of Choice: Mixed with Fire-Forged Friends. Shuraig, Ferrijit, and Rugal were all exiled from their home tribes when they were young due to various factors, and met each other as they tried to survive. The three would end up bonding with one another and Ferrijit's younger sister Kitt as they worked to survive on their own, becoming their own "herd" and taking in others like themselves, becoming a tribe of their own.
Gameplay and Story Integration: Tribe Drive, a non-archetypal card depicting Tri-Brigade Kitt (working on her Springans suit), can support the Tri-Brigade playstyle.
Little Bit Beastly: Most of the archetype's members are humanoid creatures with some animal features.
Meaningful Name: The archetype's name, Tri-Brigade, likely derives from the fact that it is an army comprised of three Types: Beast, Beast-Warrior, and Winged Beast.
Must Have Caffeine: Nervall loves coffee. He drinks it hot, even during warm days.
Plague Doctor: Nervall has a plague doctor aesthetic. His mask lets him see in the dark, for added creepiness.
Uncertain Doom: They were last seen facing off against Despian Quaeritis in Branded Opening. As Quaeritis would later be shown facing Fleurdelis, Adin, and Theo none the worse for wear, it's unclear if they managed to escape or something happened to them. They would be confirmed alive with "Tri-Brigade Showdown", with Ferrijit, Rugal, and Shuraig all joining Albaz in preparing for the final assault on Despia, albeit all injured, Shuraig getting the worst of it, and wearing blue bandanas to honor their fallen.
Virtuous Vegetarianism: According to Kerass's concept art, he doesn't eat meat at all. He's also one of the Tri-Brigade folk who helps out Albaz and Ecclesia.
Winged Humanoid: Nervall and Shuraig are this with both of them being humanoid in appearance while having bird-like wings.
You Remind Me of X: The reason they were quick to defend Albaz and Ecclesia, despite the latter being a Saint of the Dogmatika Church, is that the two of them ultimately reminded the leading members of themselves when they first met as kids, and saw the two of them as kindred spirits.

Springans

Springans is an archetype of FIRE Machine monsters focusing on a "reversed" Xyz Summoning mechanic: their Field Spell, Great Sand Sea - Gold Golgonda, can use its effect to summon Springans Xyz Monsters with no materials, and the Springans Main Deck monsters can then use their common effect to attach themselves to them as Xyz Materials.

Story-wise, the Springans are a band of rocket-like life forms that reside in a large desert known as the Great Sand Sea - Gold Golgonda. Exblowrer is their mothership from which they conduct their operations on Gold Golgonda.

Gameplay Tropes

Back from the Dead:
- If Brothers is sent from the hand or Deck to the Graveyard, its effect can Special Summon a Springans monster from the controller's Graveyard in Defense Position, except a copy of Brothers.
- The effect of Call! can Special Summon a Springans monster or Fallen of Albaz from the Graveyard.
Equivalent Exchange: If the controller Tributes Pedor as a cost, they can Special Summon a different Springans monster from their Graveyard.
Fusion Dance: Sprind is a Fusion Monster that uses Fallen of Albaz and an Effect Monster that was Special Summoned in the same turn as Sprind itself as Fusion Materials.
Mechanically Unusual Fighter: Most archetypes that focus on Special Summoning monsters from the Extra Deck first aim to amass monsters on the field before using them as materials to Summon said Extra Deck monsters. However, this archetype instead uses the effect of Great Sand Sea - Gold Golgonda to cheaply Special Summon Exblowrer from the Extra Deck, and then attaches its Main Deck monsters to it as Xyz Materials from the hand, field, or Graveyard. This is effectively the reverse of how most Extra Deck focused archetypes function.
No Item Use for You:
- The effect of Blast! enables the controller to choose one of the opponent's Main Monster Zones. If that zone is unoccupied, it cannot be used that turn. If the controller controls a Fusion Monster that lists Fallen of Albaz as a Fusion Material, they can choose two of those zones instead.
- If a face-up Xyz Monster the controller controls leaves the field by a card effect, the controller can use Booty's effect to target an opposing monster and prevent both players from activating the target's effects on the field for that turn.
Power Nullifier: The effect of Blast! enables the controller to choose one of the opponent's Main Monster Zones. If that zone is occupied by a face-up monster, that monster cannot attack directly and its effects are negated for that turn. If the controller controls a Fusion Monster that lists Fallen of Albaz as a Fusion Material, they can choose two of those zones instead.
Status Buff:
- If Captain Sargas is attached to a Springans Xyz Monster as an Xyz Material, that monster gains 500 ATK.
- Supreme Sovereign Serpent of Golgonda gains 3000 ATK while Great Sand Sea - Gold Golgonda is on the field.
- While Great Sand Sea - Gold Golgonda is on the field, all Springans Xyz Monsters on the field gain 1000 ATK.

Story Tropes

All There in the Manual: According to comments written on concept art for Springans Rockey, the Springans are soot-based lifeforms contained in mechanical shells (at least for the Rockies).
Cool Airship: Exblowrer is one of these.
Cross Counter: Both Sargas and "King" Regulus deliver this to each other in the artwork of Therion Cross.
The Dividual:
- The artwork of Brothers features Pedor, Branga, and Rockey working in tandem.
- Springans Merrymaker's artwork features a cluster of Rockey ready to be launched by Captain Sargas.
Gameplay and Story Integration:
- Their reverse Xyz gameplay mechanic is a representation of how they actually fight; the Springans transform themselves into rockets, load themselves into their launchers, and shoot themselves at their enemies.
- Supreme Sovereign Serpent of Golgonda has an effect wherein the controller can banish a monster from the Graveyard to prevent Great Sand Sea - Gold Golgonda from being destroyed by a card effect. If a Springans monster is banished for this purpose, it ties into the storyline wherein Supreme Sovereign Serpent of Golgonda is seen as being such a threat to the archetype that Albion is prompted to fight and kill it.
My Species Doth Protest Too Much: According to their lore, the Springans left their original home (implied to be the Land of Iron) after growing weary of a lifestyle of "find fuel, burn it, find more fuel to burn more fuel"; likely the result of Argyro's AI going berserk.
Our Monsters Are Weird: Their true forms underneath their rocket suits, as shown in their concept art, is a pile of animate coal-ash thing with cartoony eyes and little limbs.
Punctuated! For! Emphasis!: Blast! and Call! have names like this.
Sixth Ranger:
- Albaz and Ecclesia are both considered members of the Springan Crew lorewise, the two passing the initiation test depicted in "Springans Blast!" and being referred to as "lil' bro" and "lil' sis" by the rest of the crew, the primary motivation behind the crews conflict with the Therions and Spright arising from their desire to help Albaz and Ecclesia out.
  When our cute lil’ bro n’ lil’ sis are havin’ it rough, ain’t no way we won’t bail ’em out!
- Both Springans Rockey and Captain Sargas act as unofficial members for other archetypes.
  - Rockey serves as one for both the Swordsoul and Branded archetypes. In his soot form he acts as "Hammer Rockey-chan", Incredible Ecclesia's hammer, who is in turn support for the Swordsoul. Said soot form later joins Albaz after he is freed from Alba-Lenatus, and is seen riding on the shoulder of Albaz the Ashen throughout the climax of the story.
  - Captain Sargas serves as one for the Therion archetype, sharing the same Stellar Theme Naming as the archetype members, being regularly depicted in their archetype support cards, and joining "King" Regulus in defeating Gigantic Spright in the art of "Spright Double Cross".
This Means Warpaint: The Rockeys really like to paint their rocket heads in garish colors to look more threatening. The artwork of Merrymaker even seems to imply they paint them mid-battle!
Transforming Mecha: The machine suits that the Springans wear are capable of transforming into rockets.
Treasure Hunter: The Springans search for the finest treasure underneath the Great Sand Sea of Golgonda.

Branded

Branded in White, featuring Fallen of Albaz.

https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/ygo_branded_in_red.jpg

Branded in Red, featuring Aluber the Jester of Despia.

Branded is the supporting archetype of Spells and Traps for Fallen of Albaz, Despia, and Bystial (see below). While some Branded cards are intended to be used for one over the other, generally they support Fusion Monsters, which allow most of them to be used by both Fallen of Albaz and Despia.

Gameplay Tropes

Fusion Dance: Albion is a Fusion Monster that uses Fallen of Albaz and a LIGHT monster as Fusion Materials. Branded Fusion is the Branded Archetype's fusion spell that lets the user fuse materials from the deck, graveyard, and/or field, as long as Fallen of Albaz is one of the materials. Branded Loss allows both players to cheat out an Albaz-related fusion after they return a Fusion Deck monster back to the Extra Deck.
Meaningful Name: The Branded archetype is likely based on the Christian Stigmata, wounds that correspond to the crucifixion wounds of Jesus Christ. This plays into the religious themes of the related Dogmatika archetype, which are also said to use "Stigmata."

Story Tropes

Gameplay and Story Integration:
- Judgment of the Branded's artwork depicts Albion attacking and slaying Supreme Sovereign Serpent of Golgonda. Its effect enables the controller to target a Level 8 or higher Fusion Monster they control, and destroy all opposing monsters with an equal or higher ATK than the target. Being a Level 8 Fusion Monster, Albion is a valid target for the card. Although Albion has 2500 ATK and Supreme Sovereign Serpent of Golgonda's ATK is undefined, the latter's effect causes it to gain 3000 ATK if Great Sand Sea - Gold Golgonda is on the field. As such, under those circumstances, the controller can target Albion with Judgment of the Branded's effect to destroy an opponent's Supreme Sovereign Serpent of Golgonda.
- The artwork of Branded Fusion hints that it could be used to summon Lubellion or Mirrorjade due to how both dragons are fighting each other in said artwork.

Despia

Despia, Theater of the Branded

The Despia archetype is a series of theater-themed DARK Fairy-type and LIGHT Fiend-type monsters, who appear as corrupted versions of Dogmatika monsters, transformed into demons. In contrast with the Extra Deck-disrupting Dogmatika cards, Despians are instead focused on summoning level 8 or higher Fusion monsters. The deck also contains several cards in the Branded archetype, by name.

Hellgate: There is a giant portal to the Hole hovering above Despia, Theater of the Branded, and many more are open in the skies surrounding the castle. This appears to be the result of Dogmatika Maximus opening a gate, as seen on the art of Dogmatikalamity.
Portmanteau: Some of the monsters use the term "Despian". In addition to being a name for a resident of Despia, it's a portmanteau combining the words "Death", "Despair" and "Thespian". This fits with both the demonic theme of the deck, and its theater-inspired visuals.
Was Once a Man: Some of the monsters of Despia appear to be Dogmatika monsters, corrupted by the Hole. For instance, Maximus became the Dramaturge of Despia. Ad Libitum of Despia is a corrupted version of Ashiyan. The Dogmatika Nexus was also transformed, becoming the twin-headed dragon demon Despian Proskenion.

Swordsoul

The Swordsoul is an archetype of Wyrm monsters that focuses on Synchro Summon as their go-to tactic. Most of their membership are able to Special Summon in-theme Level 4 Tuner Tokens. From there, they rely on banishing their own cards to supplement their effects.

Added Alliterative Appeal: Present on a good portion of their spells and traps, as well as both of their level 10 synchro monsters.
Obvious Rule Patch: All the Tuner Tokens that are special summoned through the effects of Swordsoul monsters prevents the player from summoning any monsters from the Extra Deck except Synchro Monsters. This done to ensure that the Tokens won't be abused for Link-climbing shenanigans, especially through the effects of Crystron Halqifibrax that resulted in multiple Tuner monsters becoming Forbidden.
Power Nullifier: Swordsoul Grandmaster - Chixiao lets you banish a Swordsoul card or a Wyrm monster from your hand or Graveyard, to quickly negate the effects of any other monster on the field for the rest of that turn.
Status Effects: Supreme Sovereign - Chengying, gains 100 ATK/DEF for every banished card—friend and foe alike—and also drains enemy monsters' ATK/DEF by the same amount. Its other effects can ensure both of these start adding up very quickly.
What Happened to the Mouse?: While Chengying was killed in Longyuan's coup, and Mo Ye was killed by the latter when he reclaimed his sword, it is unknown what became of Chixiao, Chunjun, and Taia after Longyuan's coup. The only one seen during the coup was Chunjun, depicted fighting alongside Ecclesia against Ad Libitum before he made his escape in the art for "Branded Loss".

Icejade

The Icejade are an archetype of WATER Aqua monsters that reside in the Icejade Lake beneath the Sacred Summit. They have a connection to the Swordsoul archetype. The archetype focuses on supporting WATER monsters and controlling the board through denying them the use their cards' effects and reducing the ATK of monsters to make it harder for them to ATK.

Alternate Character Reading: The kanji that make up Hisui can be split into the kanji for ice and water. This is why they are jade-colored beings that can manipulate ice and water.
Back from the Dead: Acti, Tinola and Tremora share the same ability to, if a WATER monster is destroyed, banish themselves from the GY to summon another Icejade from hand or GY, except another copy of themselves.
Captain Ersatz: The Icejades are an homage to Land of the Lustrous as the Icejades are shiny gem-like beings like the Gems from said manga.
Cool Ship: Icejade Creation Kingfisher. It can be equipped to an Icejade monster, giving her the ability to attack in defense position. It can also return monsters back to the hand and Special Summon itself with its third effect. According to The Valuable Book EX 2, it was created with Kosmochlor's strength right when it is dwindling.
Equippable Ally: At the end of their lifespan in the lore, the Icejade monsters become patterned black crystals, which are forged into the swords used by the Swordsouls. Two monsters among their lineup function primarily as equip spells.
Gameplay and Story Integration:
- Icejade Erosion depicts Qixing Longyuan invading the Icejade Cradle. Its two effects involve destroying your own Icejade monsters to negate (i.e. to stop) opposing monsters, or searching for more Icejades when an Icejade monster is removed by a non-destruction method (e.g. with Qixing Longyuan's banish effect). These effects suggest that Qixing Longyuan is massacring the Icejades, and the Icejades are literally throwing bodies on him to try to stop him.
- The fact that Icejade Gymir Aegirine is easy to summon with the Swordsoul archetype hints that Aegirine takes on the power of the Swordsouls and attempts to avenge them. Just to twist the dagger in Longyuan's back, Longyuan and the WATER token he summons with his effect are excellent Synchro materials for Gymir Aegirine.
- Gymir Aegirine can also be Synchro Summoned with Aegirine (Level 3 monster) and Aegirocassis (Level 7 Tuner), representing Aegirine gaining the confidence to take on Longyuan.
- While not namestamped as an Icejade card, Million-Century Ice Prison does feature Aegirine in its artwork, and carries on the late-stage trend of punishing the opponent for non-destruction removal.
Irony: Icejade Gymir Aegirine, the Icejade Synchro Monster, is very easy to Synchro Summon with Swordsoul Strategist Longyuan since Longyuan is Level 6 and produces a Level 4 WATER Tuner upon being Special Summoned. In the story, Longyuan slaughtered most of the Icejades after receiving Aluber's assistance and becoming Qixing Longyuan.
Making a Splash: The Icejade can be seen manipulating icy bubbles in their card artworks, fitting their status as Water-Attribute Aqua Monsters.
Meaningful Background Event: The artwork of Tremora of the Icejade contains bubbles with the events of the Abyss storyline playing out in real-time behind her. This hints at Tremora's mystical nature.
Rock Theme Naming: They are all based on the monoclinic amphiboles and monoclinic pyroxenes that make up nephrite jade.
Status Effects: Outside of Kingfisher's 2500 ATK, the Icejade monsters don't have particularly high ATK, so they instead rely on effect capable of decreasing ATK to compensate.
- Kosmochlor can debuff monsters by 1000 ATK points when a companion Icejade monster is battling them.
- Their archetypal field spell, Icejade Cenote Enion Cradle allows the player, if a monster is normal or special summoned, to reduce the ATK of one WATER monster they control by its original value to have all of the opponent's monsters lose ATK equal to said value.
Stone Wall: Aegirine and Kosmochlor have twice the amount of DEF than they have ATK at 2000 and 3000 respectively with the latter's own above-mentioned debuffing effect making it even harder to destroy her by battle. Kingfisher lets them use that to their advantage when equipped with it by enabling them to attack while in defense position and use their DEF to calculate damage when doing so.
Water Is Womanly: The Icejade are women-like monsters made out of a strange crystalline liquid they can manipulate. Their favorite toy is a straw from the Swordsouls.

Therion

The Therions are a group of machine gladiators from outer space. Their gimmick is to equip monsters of the same type or equip their Therion allies, gaining their effects if it's the latter.

Story-wise, the Therion are constructs created by the Endless Engine Argyro System to satisfy its bloodlust. Kitt and Sargas, who are seeking help for their friends, are forced to battle with them in their volcanic UFO-arena, Therion Discolosseum.

Asskicking Leads to Leadership: As they're great warriors in the colosseum, "Duke" Yul, "Empress" Alasia, and "King" Regulus have earned their titles.
The Berserker: Because of the Spright corruption Therion Irregular lost all reason and is acting like a savage.
Blood Knight: According to the The Valuable Book EX 2, Endless Engine Argyro System used to be a Saucer restoration AI, but the volcanic energy it sucked up changed it into a being with fighting instinct.
Brutish Bulls: "Bull" Ain is based on the concept as his effect means that he attacks his own allies and his opponents at the same time. Ain is even based on the constellation Taurus. Despite his raw strength, he gets beaten and his weapons taken by Sargas in the artwork of Therion Charge.
Combination Attack: Both Sargas and “King” Regulus deliver a Cross Bomber lariat on Gigantic Spright in the artwork of Spright Double Cross.
The Corruption: The Sprights overload "King" Regulus with power, forcing him to become berserk in the process.
Cross Counter: Both Sargas and "King" Regulus deliver this to each other in the artwork of Therion Cross.
Equippable Ally: Therion monsters can equip monsters of the same Type or other Therion monsters. It's more beneficial to equip Therion monsters, as they can gain the effects of the Therion being equipped.
Fish People: "Duke" Yul is based off the concept of a crustacean person. As such he represents Cancer.
Flung Clothing: Before each match, "King" Regulus flings off his mantle.
Flying Saucer: "Therion Discolosseum" is their home base and their personal arena for their gladiator games. It's their personal Field Spell card as it gives certain benefits for Therion monsters. In the artwork, both Kitt and Sargas find the Saucer, explaining their location during the Despian arc.
Gameplay and Story Integration: Their signature equip + effect-copy effects reflects their in-lore behavior of equipping the losers' parts to strengthen themselves.
The Leader: "King" Regulus appears to lead the bunch as the Therions' king as he seen fighting Sargas in "Therion Cross" and "Therion Stand Up!". Regulus is known for being the heart of the Leo constellation, a perfect name for a leader of a gladiator team.
Mix-and-Match Critters: Despite being a robot, "Empress" Alasia is made out of turtle, rhinoceros, bear, elephant, and snake parts.
Odd Name Out: As the corrupted version of "King" Regulus, Irregular lacks the title surrounded by quotation marks like the other Therion monsters. In gameplay, Irregular doesn't even have the effect to make a "Therions" monster equipped with it gain 700 ATK and its preceding effect. Instead that is replaced with an effect to special summon itself from the hand and equip three Therions from the graveyard to it.
Our Mermaids Are Different: "Reaper" Fum is a mechanized mermaid who uses fish drones to attack her foes. She can send spells and traps back to her opponent's hand. She's based on Pisces.
Perpetual Motion Machine: The Therions are seemingly powered up by the Endless Engine Argyro System. As a spell card, it can mill a Therion card to the graveyard, setting up their equip plays.
Plant Person: "Lily" Borea is a mechanical barometz woman who uses thorny vines to attack. She can search a “Therions” Spell/Trap from your Deck. She is based on Aries as the barometz is known to be a mythical plant-goat hybrid.
Punny Name: Judging by its name, "Bull" Ain is a pun on "bullseye" and "ainrad", German for "unicycle". Its form of mobility is a singular wheel.
The Rival: In their story arc, the Therions fight against the Springans, as seen in the artworks for Therion Cross, Therion Charge, Therion Stand Up!, and Spright Smashers.
Robot Hair: According to his concept art, “King” Regulus's hair is not a special effect. Instead, they are made of "parts shaped like tubes".
Sealed Evil in a Can: “Empress” Alasia was sealed away by the Agryo system until it was broken.
Snake People: Therions’ “Empress” Alasia is based off the Zodiac constellation Ophiuchus. She's a Reptile-type because the constellation Ophiuchus is usually associated with snakes.
Stellar Theme Naming: They are named after the Zodiac constellations, making them the second group themed after the Western Zodiac after the Constellars. It is noted that Sargas also falls under this theme naming as Sargas represents Scorpio, hinting at a connection between the Springans and the Therions.
Wrestler in All of Us: According to his concept art, “King” Regulus's design is based off a combination of Roman grapplers and Roman gladiators.

Spright

The Spright are an archetype of DARK and FIRE Thunder monsters that appear to be made of plasma. They have a connection to the Springans and Therions archetypes. They act as support for monsters with the Level, Rank or Link rating of 2.

Back from the Dead: Spright Elf can, during either player's Main Phase, revive a Level 2 monster from the GY. If the effect was used while the opppnent controls a monster, a Rank or Link 2 monster can be summoned instead.
Fusion Dance: To form their Extra Deck monster forms, they pull this off. In the end, they fuse into a completely new being.
Literal Split Personality: The Spright are beings split off from the Argyro System.
Power Nullifier: Spright Red and Carrot both have the ability to tribute another Level/Rank/Link 2 monster to negate the effect of a card and, should they have tributed a monster with a Rank or Link rating, destroy said card. Red negates monster effects, while Carrot negates Spells and Traps.
Shock and Awe: The Spright monsters all have the Thunder type and bodies that appear to be made of plasma and, as shown in the artwork of Spright Gamma Burst, their attacks are electrical in nature.
Status Buff:
- Spright Pixies can be sent from the hand or field to the GY to give a battling Level, Rank or Link 2 monster ATK/DEF equal to the current ATK of the monster it's battling.
- Should Gigantic Spright have a Fusion, Synchro, Xyz or Link monster as material, its original ATK of 1600 will be doubled.
- Spright Gamma Burst increase the ATK and DEF of all monsters whose Level, Rank or Link rating are 2 by 1400 until the end of the turn. The card can also be banished from the GY during the player's Main Phase to give that same boost to a single monster until the end of the next turn.
Theme Naming: The Spright monsters are named after various upper-atmospheric electrical phenomenons.
Totally Radical: The concept art designer for the Spright monsters describe them as this.
"I created them to look like fancy, young celebrities. The request for their clothes was ‘near-futuristic and space outfits’, so I gave them that baggy look + those badges that astronauts often wear. They probably enjoy electro-dance music, street fashion and the like."
Weak, but Skilled: Like other Level, Rank and Link 2 monsters, the Spright don't have high ATK with their strongest being Gigantic Spright with 1600 ATK. However, they can easily swarm the field, search for each other, and control the opponent with effects that negate their moves, on top of the stray effect that can give them a surge in ATK to beat over what they can't normally.
Zerg Rush: All of Spright monster can be special summoned from hand should the player control a Level 2, a Rank 2 (for the DARK monsters only) or a Link 2 monster (for the FIRE monsters only). This allows the player to easily swarm the field

Bystial

https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/17762.png

The Bystial is an archetype of Dragon monsters. They are divided into sub-groups, one made up of Level 6 DARK monsters with 2500 ATK and 2000 DEF that can be special summoned from the hand by banishing a LIGHT or DARK monster from either player's graveyard, which can be done as a quick effect if the opponent controls a monster; and a second comprised of LIGHT monsters which can be special summoned from the hand or graveyard by tributing specific monsters on the field. Just like with Fallen of Albaz and the Despia, this archetype relies on the Branded archetype of Spells/Traps as their support cards.

Death-Activated Superpower:
- Druiswurm and Saronir both have abilities that activate if they are sent from the fiend to the GY: Druiswurm's allows the player to send an opposing special summoned monster to the GY, while Saronir's lets the player send a "Bystial" monster or a "Branded" Spell/Trap card from their deck to the graveyard.
- Should Alba Los leave its owner's field by an opponent's effect, it will banish all the cards in each players's Extra Deck face-up until the opponent's turn ends.
Power Nullifier: While Alba Los is on the field, after having been summoned through its own effect, it will negate the effects of all Ritual, Synchro, Xyz and Link monsters on the field.
Theme Naming: The names of the level 6 Bystial come from the name of a mythological dragon combined with the name of a king or leader figure.

Characters

Protagonists

Albaz

Fallen of Albaz

^{Titaniklad the Ash Dragon}

^{Brigrand the Glory Dragon}

^{Sprind the Irondash Dragon}

^{Albion the Branded Dragon}

^{Albion the Shrouded Dragon}

^{Mirrorjade the Iceblade Dragon}

^{Albaz the Ashen}

^{Rindbrumm the Striking Dragon}

^{Albion the Sanctifire Dragon}

Does his name refer to a past, buried in darkness, or to a bright future?

Fallen of Albaz is a mysterious white-haired boy with the power to transform into dragons. He crashes into Dogmatika from a Hole portal, and is ruthlessly hunted down by Dogmatika. He managed to escape Dogmatika with Tri-Brigade's help, and is forced into a journey with Ecclesia, who took pity on him and was exiled by Dogmatika. Following a clash with the Despian Troupe's Aluber, he would be stripped of his ability to turn into a dragon, left now as Albaz the Ashen.

In gameplay, Fallen of Albaz is a DARK Dragon monster that, upon being summoned, can perform a Fusion Summon using itself and the opponent's monsters as materials, which it can use to summon its advanced Fusion Monster forms. Albaz is supported by the Branded cards and an informal series of cards that specify his name, and its Fusion forms cross-support other archetypes in the storyline.

All Your Powers Combined: According to Mirrorjade's concept art and the effect of Branded Sword, Albaz can channel the powers of his previous dragon forms. According to the card lore, Mirrorjade also has the powers of Kosmochlor and Chengying after both gave their energy to Albaz.
Amnesiac Hero: Albaz has forgotten everything, even his own name. To show their growing bond, Ecclesia gives Albaz his current name.
Brought Down to Normal: Albaz loses the power of Branded in White after being forcefully ejected from Alba-Lenatus the Abyss Dragon during the events of "Branded Expulsion", transforming him into Albaz the Ashen. Despite this, he resolves to make a final stand against Aluber and the Bystial, teaming up with the Tri-Brigade to confront them at Golgonda.
Catch a Falling Star: The artwork of Light of the Branded depicts Albaz frantically trying to catch an unconscious Ecclesia while both are free falling from the sky.
De-power: Albaz lost his ability to change into a dragon when Aluber sucked away some of his energy to become Lubellion. Sensing Albaz's determination, Chengying and Kosmochlor give Albaz the last of their strength and change him into Mirrorjade.
Duality Motif: After his eye has healed, Fallen of Albaz is shown to have a golden eye. Combined with his red eye, it's obvious the golden eye hints at the boy's strangeness.
Dub Name Change: Titaniklad's OCG name is Bastard. Likely changed to avoid the offensive meaning of the word.
Eleventh Hour Super Power: Albaz fuses with Ecclesia and becomes Albion the Sanctifire Dragon.
Emergency Weapon: After being Brought Down to Normal and becoming Albaz the Ashen, Albaz wields a shard of Mirrorjade the Iceblade Dragon's body as a makeshift dagger. After the defeat of the Bystial and Despia, he upgrades to an unusual magical blade.
Eye Scream: His left eye is always closed. A scar beneath the eye gives the impression that it was either damaged or gouged out, though all of his dragon forms are depicted with both eyes, and both can be seen glowing in the artwork of Branded in White. A showcase by Konami's animation studio implies that the scar is actually Morphic Resonance from a wound inflicted on his Titaniklad form by Fleurdelis. His alternate card artwork shows him after it has healed, revealing a pure golden eye. And since this artwork is for the regular Fallen of Albaz, it could mean that he regained his powers.
Fusion Dance: This is his speciality in gameplay, being able to perform a Fusion Summon by using the opponent's monsters rather than your own. And Fallen of Albaz's advanced forms are all Fusion Monsters that require Fallen of Albaz himself and another generic monster.
- Titaniklad the Ash Dragon: Requires a monster with 2500 or more ATK. Related to the Dogmatika archetype.
- Brigrand the Glory Dragon: Requires a Level 8 or higher monster. Related to the Tri-Brigade archetype.
- Sprind the Irondash Dragon: Requires an Effect Monster that was Special Summoned in the same turn. Related to the Springans archetype. Unlike the other Fusion Monsters related to it, Sprind isn't a transformation of Albaz, as Albaz is seen driving it in its own artwork. Sprind can be seen as a Fusion Monster as machines can be seen as an extension of its pilots, in this case, Albaz and Ecclesia.
- Albion the Branded Dragon: Requires a LIGHT monster. Related to the Branded archetype.
- Mirrorjade the Iceblade Dragon: Requires a Fusion, Synchro, Xyz, or Link Monster. Related to the Icejade and Swordsoul archetypes. It can banish a monster from the field at the cost of banishing an Extra Deck fusion monster that requires Fallen of Albaz as material. It can also destroy all of the opponent's monsters controlled by the opponent if it leaves the field. According to the The Valuable Book EX 2, this form is created when Chengying and Kosmochlor give Albaz the last of their strength.
- The artwork of Branded Fusion, which was expanded upon in the lore contained within The Valuable Book EX 2, has Mirrorjade and Lubellion fuse into Alba-Lenatus the Abyss Dragon.
- Rindbrumm the Striking Dragon is a combination of Kitt piloting a mecha and Albaz in the storyline. They're considered a Fusion Monster because their hearts and minds are dedicated to saving Ecclesia from the clutches of the Despians, making it a Fusion in a mental sense.
- Albion the Sanctifire Dragon is Albaz's final Fusion which occurs during the climax of the plot by recovering an unconscious Ecclesia, represented by requiring a LIGHT Spellcaster as the material.
Fun with Homophones: Fallen of Albaz and the Branded archetype both use terms pronounced "Rakuin." For the former, the term is 落胤, used to refer to an illegitimate child. For the latter, the term is 烙印, used to refer to stigma (as in a mark on the body). Likely intentional due to the connection the two have.
Gameplay and Story Integration:
- While Mirrorjade can be summoned using Albaz's effect, story-wise it's formed with Albion The Shrouded Dragon as the base, reflected in its higher stat line of 3000/2500.
- After getting ejected from Alba-Lenatus and becoming Albaz the Ashen, Albaz loses his signature fusion effect, suggesting that he can no longer transform into dragons.
- Albion the Branded Dragon, being a pure manifestation of his power, can immediately use itself and an Albaz in grave as fusion material to flex into almost any of the other Albaz dragons.
Gem Tissue: The white gems on Fallen of Albaz's forehead, chest, and hands appear to be part of his body. The art and name of Branded in White hint that these gems are related to the "Stigmata" used by the Dogmatika archetype. They are missing in his Albaz the Ashen art, after being ejected from Alba-Lenatus.
Heroic Bastard: The OCG name of Fallen of Albaz uses the term 落胤 ("Rakuin"), which refers to an illegitimate child, but he is still one of the two main heroes of the story.
Homage:
- Seeing as he's one of the protagonists of the Dogmatika storyline, Fallen of Albaz could be seen as an homage to Ryu of the Breath of Fire series. The Dogmatika archetype acting as his antagonist references Breath of Fire II, where Ryu had to deal with a Corrupt Church as the primary antagonist. His ability to become Fusion monsters likely stems from Breath of Fire III, where the fusion gene lets Ryu fuse with his fellow party members. His rivalry with Aluber can be seen as a nod to the various Ryus' rivalries with Ray, Teepo, Fou-Lou and Bosch.
- Albaz can be seen as an homage to Tidus from Final Fantasy X as he's an outsider from another world who befriends a church girl.
It Was a Gift: In his alt card art, Albaz is wielding an unusual magitek blade given to him by the Tri-Brigade as a parting gift.
Meaningful Name: Besides the Heroic Bastard meaning above, "Albaz" is likely a corruption of Latin "albus," which can mean "white." Fitting for a boy with Mystical White Hair. It was given to him by Ecclesia, according to her token card lore. And Albaz's name is acknowledged in the form of a question: "Does his name refer to a past, buried in darkness, or to a bright future?"
Me's a Crowd: As Mirrorjade the Iceblade Dragon, Albaz's ability is to create weapons that bear the strength of all his previous forms, judging by Branded Sword's effect.
Our Dragons Are Different: Fallen of Albaz is a Dragon despite looking quite humanoid. And he's able to transform into a number of advanced forms, all of which are wildly different from each other, with some not even being Dragons.
- Titaniklad is similar in build to a Western dragon, but has shiny, metallic skin.
- Brigrand is a bestial dragon with large tufts of fur.
- Sprind is a mechanical construct ridden by Albaz himself.
- Mirrorjade is an evolution of his Shrouded Dragon form covered in ice armor.
Mystical White Hair: Fallen of Albaz has white hair and harbors many mysterious powers.
Pointy Ears: Yet another point of contrast with the Dogmatika monsters. As Albaz the Ashen, his ears were changed into a more human-like shape as a result of having his draconic abilities stolen by Aluber.
Shapeshifter Mode Lock: After his battle with the Supreme Sovereign Serpent of Golgonda, he has been stuck in his dragon form (as Albion the Branded/Shrouded Dragon).
Sixth Ranger: In gameplay, Fallen of Albaz exists as one for the archetypes of his world.
- Dogmatika: Fallen of Albaz can easily summon a Fusion Monster from the Extra Deck, allowing for use of Dogmatika effects that require a monster Special Summoned from the Extra Deck to be on the field. Additionally, some Dogmatika effects can dump Titaniklad directly into the Graveyard, which then allows its controller to search out another Fallen of Albaz or a Dogmatika monster to their hand. Titaniklad himself is also immune to the effect of monsters summoned from the extra deck during the turn he's summoned, keeping with the deck's anti-extra deck gimmick.
- Tri-Brigade: Brigand is a Beast, which allows it to work together with the Tri-Brigade playstyle that rewards playing Beast, Beast-Warrior, and Winged Beast monsters. It also gives the archtype another high-ATK beater, as the majority of their monsters have less than 2000 ATK.
- Springans: A number of Springans cards directly call for either Fallen of Albaz or one of its advanced forms. In particular, Springans Call! is a Trap that allows the user to Special Summon a Fallen of Albaz from their Graveyard. This allows for the easy summoning of Sprind, since otherwise summoning Fallen of Albaz to Fusion Summon into Sprind on the same turn as an Effect Monster Special Summoned by the opponent would be quite difficult. Sprind itself can disrupt card zones directly, like Exblowrer and Springans Blast!
- Swordsoul: Mirrorjade is a Wyrm type and can banish cards like most of the other playmakers of the archetype .
Took a Level in Badass: Albaz the Ashen is a retrain of Fallen of Albaz who gains powerful effects with a Fusion monster in the graveyard. In story, he's Albaz after the events of Branded Expulsion. The fusion-related graveyard effects are a sign that Albaz is now making an effort to Fight Like a Normal.
Weak, but Skilled: In gameplay, Fallen of Albaz himself has subpar stats, being a Level 4 with 1800 ATK and 0 DEF. But his playstyle means he won't be on the field for long, being able to Fusion Summon using himself and monsters the opponent controls as Fusion Materials as soon as he is summoned for the low cost of discarding a card. Since the effect doesn't target and very few monsters prevent themselves from being used as Fusion Material, it can remove most monsters from the field, provided you have an appropriate Fusion Monster to summon.
Weredragon: Fallen of Albaz can transform into dragons, though given that all of his transformations are Fusion Monsters, it is implied that he needs to merge with something else in order to enact said transformations. Up to Albion and Mirrorjade, all Fusion Monsters that specifically list Fallen of Albaz as a Fusion Material have an effect wherein the controller can add to their hand, or Special Summon, a copy of Fallen of Albaz from their Deck, which could hint that the transformations are temporary and said effect represents him reverting to his normal form.
World-Healing Wave: As Albion the Sanctifire Dragon, the Albaz/Ecclesia fusion purifies the Despians, minus Ad Libitium and Aluber, removing their brands and making them humans again.

Ecclesia

Dogmatika Ecclesia, the Virtuous

^{Incredible Ecclesia, the Virtuous}

^{Blazing Cartesia, the Virtuous}

A pure white heart to be filled with many memories. With thoughts of coming days in mind, the girl gifts a name to the boy.

Dogmatika Ecclesia, the Virtuous, is a holy maiden who grew up inside the society of Dogmatika, and is considered a saint by the nation alongside Fleurdelis. However, when she refused to execute Fallen of Albaz, she was exiled by Dogmatika and forced to flee alongside Fallen of Albaz, becoming Incredible Ecclesia, as she and Albaz embark on a journey together.

The Beastmaster: The artwork of Granguignol the Dusk Dragon sees Cartesia commanding the titular dragon. As it's a Fusion monster, they fight as one unit.
Body Horror: According to the concept art, Cartesia and Granguignol can melt into each other.
Big Eater: Notes written on concept art for Ecclesia state that she is the sort to eat a lot of meals.
The Cameo: A censored version of her shows up in the concept art for the Live Twins and Evil Twins when Ki-sikill complains about the reference to Dogmatika Ecclesia, the Virtuous's concept art.
Coat Cape: Incredible Ecclesia ends up dropping her fugitive cloak in favor of wearing a Tri-Brigade jacket on her shoulders.
Corrupt the Cutie: Ecclesia appears to have been corrupted following the events of Branded in Central Dogmatika, changing her into the sinister-looking Blazing Cartesia, the Virtuous.
Evil Costume Switch: Her attire as Blazing Cartesia, the Virtuous is very sinister-looking compared to her previous outfit.
Goggles Do Nothing: Ecclesia is given a pair of goggles by Kitt. In the concept art for Incredible Ecclesia, the Virtuous, they're given special mention with a "Matching Goggles" title. Both Kitt and Ecclesia pose while wearing goggles, showing the bond they have with each other.
Fusion Dance: Albaz fuses with Ecclesia and becomes Albion the Sanctifire Dragon. It shares some of Ecclesia's appearance.
Grand Theft Me: As Blazing Cartesia, she has been possessed by Quem, the first saint of the Dogmatika Church, following the events of Branded In Central Dogmatika.
Heroes Prefer Swords: Inverted, as her transformation into Blazing Cartesia sees her wielding a sword instead of her traditional hammer.
Homage: Ecclesia could be seen as an homage to Yuna from Final Fantasy X, as both are heroines who get exiled from a corrupt church for questioning their own beliefs. They also befriend an outsider from another world.
I Call It "Vera": The skull hammer is known as Rockey-chan by Ecclesia.
"I Know You're in There Somewhere" Fight: Kitt and Albaz are fighting against Cartesia and Lubellion in the artwork of Branded Befallen, and Albaz reaches out to Cartesia in the art of Light of the Branded.
Kid Hero: According to her concept art, Ecclesia is around 15 years old.
Meaningful Name: Ecclesia is the Greek and Latin term for the Christian church.
Not Quite Back to Normal: After her stint as Cartesia, the alternate artwork of Incredible Ecclesia, the Virtuous shows her sporting Granguignol-like wings and draconic horns.
Odd Friendship: Ecclesia and Fallen of Albaz have befriended each other and currently travel together after they escaped from the Dogmatika with the Tri-Brigades.
Pointy Ears: As Ecclesia, her ears are more human-like. As Blazing Cartesia, her ears were lengthened further as a result of her possession by Quem.
Sensible Heroes, Skimpy Villains: Ecclesia's new outfit as Blazing Cartesia comes with a Cleavage Window that displays her surprisingly ample bosom. The Cleavage Window is covered up in the TCG.
Sixth Ranger: As Incredible Ecclesia, the Virtuous, Ecclesia gains effects that support the Swordsoul archetype and Fallen of Albaz.
Significant Wardrobe Shift: After being rescued by the Tri-Brigade and becoming a fugitive with Fallen of Albaz, Ecclesia changes her outfit to one more befitting for travel in the desert. According to notes written on concept art for said outfit, it was provided to her by Tri-Brigade Ferrijit the Barren Blossom.
Taking the Bullet: As Blazing Cartesia she takes a shot from Rindbrumm originally meant for Lubellion.
Tomboyish Ponytail: According to notes written on her concept art after becoming a desert fugitive, Ecclesia ties her hair into a ponytail since her old hairstyle is hard for her to maintain.

Fleurdelis

Dogmatika Fleurdelis, the Knighted

^{The Iris Swordsoul}

^{Despian Luluwalilith}

Sometimes like a kind sister, sometimes like a strict teacher. The bond is always there, even while far apart.

Dogmatika Fleurdelis, the Knighted, is the commander of the Dogmatika crusaders, and the other saint of Dogmatika alongside Ecclesia. Though initially antagonistic against Albaz, she left Dogmatika alongside Theo and Adin after Ecclesia's exile from Dogmatika, and began helping Albaz and Ecclesia under a new identity: The Iris Swordsoul.

And I Must Scream: After the final battle against Dis Pater, her soul is trapped within Guiding Quem, the Virtuous, buried deep within her and kept asleep.
Brought Down to Badass: Even with her holy relics missing and her refusal to use her stigmata, Fleurdelis still manages to keep in shape as seen by her stats staying the same while keeping an anti Special Summon effect. She managed to take down Golgonda and Albion at the same time with a thunderbolt. And she strikes down Dramaturge of Despia in the artwork of Branded Retribution.
Came Back Wrong: She's seen in the artwork of Branded in Central Dogmatika being cradled by Ecclesia after apparently having been pulled from an iron maiden and it's unclear if she's already dead, in the midst of dying, or merely unconscious. Later on, Fleurdelis became Despian Luluwalilith, a Synchro monster belonging to the Despian archetype. Subverted fortunately thanks to the art for "Swordsoul Punishment" depicting her attacking The Bystial Dis Peter, making clear that despite being a Despian now, Fleurdelis is a case of Dark Is Not Evil.
Cool Big Sis: Ecclesia idolizes Fleurdelis, as seen on the concept art of The Iris Swordsoul. This relationship goes back for 10 years. Fleurdelis's token card art acknowledges this: "Sometimes like a kind sister, sometimes like a strict teacher. The bond is always there, even while far apart."
Enemy Without: In a sense, Fleurdelis staring down Quaeritis in the artwork of Branded Exile could be seen as this. A purified Fleurdelis is about to confront the manifestation of her past sins and beat it down to show that she's moved past the Dogmatika/Despian church.
Fighting from the Inside: After Albaz pulls Ecclesia out of Cartesia/Granguignol, Fleur takes control from within to form Luluwalilith, her driving force being, "protect Ecclesia".
Fun with Homophones: The OCG name of The Iris Swordsoul, The Illusory Iris Xiangjian Master (Ayame no Soukenshi), has "Illusory Iris" rendered phonetically as "ayame", which means Iris flower, which the fleur-de-lis symbol is a stylized depiction of.
Hidden Buxom: Underneath her armor, Fleurdelis has an ample bosom, as shown in The Iris Swordsoul's OCG artwork. Said bosom is made less prominent in the TCG version.
Lady of War: Fleurdelis is the female commander of the Dogmatika knights and is both strong and graceful.
Magic Knight: Despite being a Spellcaster-Type monster, Fleurdelis is clad in a knight's armor and wields a sword in battle. Even after discarding her armor, her preferred weapon remains the same.
Meaningful Name:
- The Fleur-de-Lis is a French decorative symbol associated with the Iris. Because France is a traditionally Catholic country, the symbol has gained religious connotations, and is often used to represent Catholic saints from the country.
- According to some Jewish texts, Luluwa is the first daughter of Adam and Eve. She is also Cain's wife. Lilith is the first wife of Adam who refused to submit to him and became a demon. Fleurdelis's attack on Maximus in the art of "Swordsoul Punshiment" could be a nod to the mythology. Lilith is also a pun on the lily flower, continuing her flower motif.
Rōnin: According to concept art of The Iris Swordsoul and the artwork of Springans Interluder, Fleurdelis becomes a wandering swordswoman with Adin and Theo as her sidekicks. Adin suffers the most as he's a bookworm.
Shock and Awe: According to concept art of The Iris Swordsoul, Fleurdelis's new swords come with electric shock mode. These blades gave her the ability to launch the thunderbolts that defeated Golgonda and Albion.
Tritagonist: She tends to be tied with Kitt in terms of focus after Albaz and Ecclesia, leading to her, Theo, and Adin getting their own storyline in joining the Swordsoul before pulling a Big Damn Heroes moment to save everyone from the Supreme Sovereign Serpent of Golgonda, and the trio going off to try and kill Maximus after the Despian Theatre attacks the Swordsoul and Icejade.

Kitt

Tri-Brigade Kitt

^{Springans Kitt}

Kitt is one of Albaz and Ecclesia's allies during their time in Gold Golgonda. She's pretty smart compared to the rest of the Tri-Brigade, as she's tinkered with plenty of gadgets. She's Ferrijit's younger sister.

Cool Shades: Sports a nice pair of aviators in her Springans Kitt artwork.
Energy Weapon: Springans Kitt's cannon, themed on Sprind the Irondash Dragon, can fire beams using Hole energy.
Gadgeteer Genius: Kitt falls under this trope as she encounters Albaz and Ecclesia in her lab during the events on the artwork of Tri-Brigade Rendezvous, with multiple cards latter showing her mechanical talent. She created the "Bearbrumm the Rampant Rampager" mech, later dismantles the mech to arm herself to the teeth as Springans Kitt (using the remains of Sprind the Irondash Dragon too), and she finally uses that armor to trap the Sprights, giving origin to Spright Sprind. To fight against the Despians and the Bystial, she constructs Rindbrumm the Striking Dragon to pilot into battle and outfits Shuraig with the Spright-powered Bucephalus II Arm Cannon.
Genki Girl: Throughout her many appearances in the Abyss Storyline card artworks, Kitt oozes energy. From leading Albaz and Ecclesia on a tour of Exblowrer to working on her powered armor, Kitt can't sit still. When she's cheering on Captain Sargas in the artwork of Therions’ Standup, she seems to be as overly excited as she's worried about his well-being.
Homage: Other than the difference in species, Kitt is an homage to Momo from Breath of Fire III. They both have an obsession with technology, to the point of building their own gizmos. She can also be seen as an homage to Rikku from Final Fantasy X, as both are gadgeteers who reside in the desert.
Naked People Are Funny: Subverted. The concept art for "New Frontier" shows a Rockey to have stolen her jacket and tried running off with it, with Kitt hiding herself in an empty Springan shell while chasing after him. She eventually got her hands on other clothes in time to join the Group Hug with the other Tri-Brigade, and her jacket ends up in the possession of Fallen of Argyros.
Otaku: According to comments on her concept art, Kitt's obsessed with technology. She even created Bearbrumm the Rampant Rampager as her Link evolution, Tri-Brigade Mercourier, the gadgets in Springans Kitt's artwork, the Bucephalus II armaments for Shuraig, and Rindbrumm the Striking Dragon as her Fusion evolution.
Powered Armor: According to Springans Kitt's concept, Springans Kitt is just "Kitt wearing a full body mecha armament".
Power Fist: Springans Kitt wields a powered gauntlet based on Bearbrumm. Combined with her Arm Cannon, these two weapons have given her a significant ATK boost comparable to Bearbrumm.
Sixth Ranger: As Kitt was technically a part of the Springans, she becomes a part of the archetype in the form of Springans Kitt. She also has an effect that supports Fallen of Albaz in this form.
Tritagonist: She tends to be tied with Fleurdelis in terms of focus after Albaz and Ecclesia, leading her own storyline alongside the Springans, Captain Sargas in particular, as they fight the Therions and the Sprights. She is also arguably the most influential character in terms of winning the final fight, bringing the upgraded Springans to Golgonda to defeat the Bystials while helping Albaz inflict a devastating blow to Cartesia and a weakened Lubellion.

Dogmatika

Theo and Adin

Dogmatika Theo, the Iron Punch

Dogmatika Adin, the Enlightened

^{The Golden Swordsoul}

Theo and Adin are Fleurdelis's faithful companions.

The Big Guy: Theo wields a Power Fist and is rather muscular. His effect also evokes this, as the controller can target an Extra Deck monster and boost Theo's ATK by 600, while causing the target to lose 600 ATK. As Theo has 1800 ATK, this means that a targeted monster needs at least 3100 ATK to still come out stronger than Theo.
Brought Down to Badass: Like Fleurdelis, both Theo and Adin have sworn off using the Stigmata. Both can still kick butt.
Cane Sword: Adin is seen wielding one of these in his Swordsoul artwork.
Caring Gardener: In his concept art, Adin tries to care for some arugula, but fails miserably. It has withered because Adin has overwatered it and white mold has grown because of the stale air.
The Dividual: The Golden Swordsoul depicts both Theo and Adin in its card art.
Drink-Based Characterization: Adin is unable to drink hot drinks, like Dogmatika Tea, because one of his stigmatika is on his tongue.
Geek Physiques: Adin has a skinny appearance and is the bookworm of the group. In The Iris Swordsoul's concept art, he and Theo are seen carrying some of Fleurdelis' cargo, and Adin is clearly struggling to keep up with Theo.
Power Fist: Theo's weapon of choice, presumably his titular "Iron Punch". After joining the Swordsoul, Theo traded this for a pair of handblades.
Sixth Ranger: Like their master, Theo and Adin joined the Swordsouls as The Golden Swordsoul. They have an effect that supports Fallen of Albaz.
Those Two Guys: Theo and Adin are depicted like this in the Abyss storyline. They are never seen far from their leader Fleurdelis. And when she defects from the Dogmatika and joins the Swordsouls, they join her as well in the form of The Golden Swordsoul.
True Companions: Adin and Theo remained loyal to Fleurdelis, as seen by them still showing up with her in the artwork of Springans Interluder. They even brought her to safety after the fight against the Tribrigade in the artwork of Swordsoul Emergence. They also joined the Swordsoul.
What Happened to the Mouse?: They were last seen in the art of Dogmatikamacabre, depicted alongside Fleurdelis surrounded by legions of Despians. While Fleur was hit with Uncertain Doom after Branded In Central Dogmatika, her disciples haven't been seen since. The Valuable Book EX 3 would reveal they both survived, albeit Adin having lost an eye.

Maximus

Dogmatika Maximus

^{Dramaturge of Despia}

^{Dogmatika Alba Zoa}

^{Bystial Dis Pater}

Dogmatika Maximus is the High Priest of the Dogmatika faith, and the leader of the Dogmatika nation. Maximus has many magical powers and leads the believers of Dogmatika forwards in their missions against heretics, but he, along with his faith, seems to have some connections to the powers of the Hole as well...

Clipped-Wing Angel: As Alba Zoa, he devolves into Dis Pater as he grows in madness and attempts to evolve to a more powerful form. However, he instead decreases in power, level and intelligence, which makes him easy pickings for Luluwalilith.
Devour the Dragon: Upon Albion's emergence, Dogmatika Alba Zoa devours the other Bystial dragons to become Bystial Dis Pater, a gruesome Draconic Abomination.
High Priest: Maximus is this to the Dogmatika faith, as well as the governor of the Dogmatika nation.
Humanoid Abomination: As Dramaturge of Despia, he gains unnaturally long needle fingers and grotesque, fleshy wings. He further mutates into Dogmatika Alba Zoa in the artwork of Dogmatikamatrix.
Meaningful Name: Maximus' name is derived from pontifex maximus, the chief High Priest of the College of Pontiffs in Ancient Rome. The term "pontifex" was later applied to Catholic bishops, with the title of "pontifex maximus" being applied to the The Pope.
Malevolent Masked Men: Never seen without his mask on, even after becoming Dramaturge of Despia. In-universe, it is considered heretical to behold his face. After changing into Dogmatika Alba Zoa, his face becomes blank, with only razor-sharp teeth and a freakishly long tongue.
Number of the Beast: Dogmatika Alba Zoa is the 666th Saint of Dogmatika and required the sacrifice of the 665 other saints and then using himself as a catalyst to complete its summoning.
Sinister Minister: Head of the Dogmatika church, and very much one of the storyline's Big Bads.

Ashiyan

https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/deiexdh_0707839b_07a3_425d_81e2_5d09bc42358f.jpg

Dogmatika Ashiyan

^{Ad Libitum of Despia}

Church Police: Ashiyan appears to fulfill this role within the Dogmatika faith, as his artwork depicts him standing in front of a group of similarly dressed men. The artwork of Dogmatikacism depicts him attacking Ecclesia, ostensibly for betraying the Dogmatika faith by befriending Fallen of Albaz. Considering that his Japanese OCG name, Hashashiyan, is derived from the Order of Assassins, it remains to be seen if he is also a Professional Killer as well.
Face–Monster Turn: Downplayed. While he did play an antagonistic role via being the leader of Dogmatika's Church Police, there's no indication he was aware of the sinister truth behind the Dogmatika Church nor Maximus' true affiliation with the Despian Theatre. He's still corrupted into Ad Libitum of Despia and made into a liason for the Despian's dealings with Longyuan. Etude of the Branded suggests that he may have been Evil All Along, reporting to Aluber after everything is said and done.
Religious and Mythological Theme Naming: Ashiyan is an Arabic and Muslim name that means "heaven" or "light". The card's Japanese OCG name, Hashashiyan, is the Persian name for the Order of Assassins.
Villain: Exit, Stage Left: In the artwork of Branded Loss, Ad Libitum fled the fight against Ecclesia through a portal. After Maximus's defeat, he reports to Aluber as seen in the artwork of Etude of the Branded.
White Hair, Black Heart: He has long white hair in the artwork of Etude of the Branded, and willingly serves the Big Bad Aluber.
Wolverine Claws: Ashiyan has these attached to his gauntlets.

Quem

White Relic of Dogmatika

^{Guiding Quem, the Virtuous}

"...a virtuous woman from a dogmatic nation, newly appointed to her station. With cold eyes and a faint smile, she walks alongside the funeral procession."

A strange, saintly girl with a key role in Maximus's "Gospel" ritual, her true identity is that of the first Saint of the Dogmatika Church.

Body Surf: Her true identity is the first saint of the Dogmatika Church, and Ecclesia was initially intended to be her vessel before she ran off with Albaz. Instead, Ecclesia's immediate replacement served as a temporary host, turning her into the White Relic, up until Ecclesia was driven to the Despair Event Horizon with the death of Fleurdelis, upon which Quem moved into her body and turned her into Blazing Cartesia. Once Eccelsia was saved by Albaz, Quem took on a new body comprised of the souls of the 665 saints, including Fleurdelis.
Dissonant Serenity: In the artwork of Branded in Central Dogmatika, White Relic looks over Ecclesia holding the dead body of Fleurdelis with a gentle and serene expression, apparently unconcerned with Ecclesia's grief or the deadly atmosphere of the scene. Her icon from Master Duel says she has cold eyes and a faint smile.
Early-Bird Cameo: The girl that would later become the White Relic's vessel shows up in Dogmatika Genesis, being ordained as a saint by Maximus so she can be possessed by the spirit of Quem.
Merger of Souls: This is the true nature of Guiding Quem, the Virtuous, a being comprised of the souls of 665 saints, including Fleurdelis. The only exception is the 317th saint, which has taken the form of an eye and is accompanying Albaz and Ecclesia in their next adventure.
You Have Outlived Your Usefulness: The White Relic was only meant to serve as a temporary body for Quem until she could make Ecclesia into her host, the girl who was made into the White Relic being a last minute addition only ordained as a saint due to the necessity for Quem's involvement in the "Gospel" ritual. Once Quem successfully took over Ecclesia, the girl made into the White Relic was discarded.

White Knight

White Knight of Dogmatika

^{Despian Quaeritis}

^{Granguignol the Dusk Dragon}

A horrific being born from Fleurdelis's discarded armor, after being infused with powers from beyond the Hole.

Draconic Abomination: Quaeritis' concept art and its appearances in later story scenes show it taking on a more draconic form. It fully mutates into Granguignol the Dusk Dragon during the final battle between the Bystial/Despian alliance and the protagonists.
Evil Counterpart: Concept art for Despian Quaeritis reveals it to be an Abyss creature inhabiting Fleurdelis's discarded armor. It uses her same stats.
Humanoid Abomination: White Knight of Dogmatika is distinctively inhuman despite looking humanoid; it has an extra pair of arms protruding from its shoulders and clawed feet resembling those of big cats.
Multi-Armed and Dangerous: White Knight of Dogmatika sports two pairs of arms.

Tri-Brigade

Shuraig

Tri-Brigade Shuraig the Ominous Omen

^{Tri-Brigade Arms Bucephalus II}

Arm Cannon: Tri-Brigade Arms "Bucephalus II" has Shuraig brandishing a massive one, which he uses in conjunction with Gigantic "Champion" Sargas' blast to take out Bystial Alba Los. The cannon itself is depicted as having mechanical parts going as far up as Shuraig's bicep, and considering his injured state just prior, it's unclear if the parts are just for the sake of fastening to his arm, or if he lost that arm and the parts denote where the cutoff point was and the cannon itself would be attached to. According to Bucephalus II's concept art, Kitt created the upgrade and it runs off the power of the Sprights.
Artificial Limbs: Shuraig's left wing is mechanical, as seen in both his card artwork and concept art. His Working Title, Tri-Brigade Shuraig the One-Winged, confirms this. Before getting augmented with the mechanical wing, Shuraig was often called featherless, mocking his missing wing.
Cool Mask: Like the other Tri-Brigade members sans Kitt, he wears a combat mask in battle, his designed after a bird and appearing similar to a Plague Doctors mask. Other card art and concept art depicts him sans mask, something unique to him and Ferrijit, showing him to be a bit of a bishounen. After his original mask is damaged fighting the Despian Troupe, Kitt makes him a new mask to wear while wielding Tri-Brigade Arms "Bucephalus II", this one having a much tighter shape and more closely resembling a bird's beak.
Gameplay and Story Integration: Shuraig is someone willing to risk life and limb for both the cause and his comrades, being the most injured of the group by time for the final battle in comparison to his comrades Ferrijit and Rugal. Fittingly, his Link-5 upgrade, "Tri-Brigade Arms "Bucephalus II"", possesses an effect that activates when a monster declares an attack, upon which he banishes himself and all of the opponent's cards, pulling a Taking You with Me move.
Grenade Launcher: As seen in his card artwork, Shruaig wields a grenade launcher before upgrading to the Tri-Brigade Arms "Bucephalus II" Arm Cannon.
Homage: Shuraig seems to be an homage to Final Fantasy VII. More specifically, Cloud Strife and Sephiroth. Shuraig acts like the leader of the Tri-Brigade group like Cloud Strife does with the protagonist group in Final Fantasy VII. He's even quiet like Cloud. Minus the villainy, Shuraig is like Sephiroth in that they are known for having one wing, to the point of having a nickname based on the feature.
The Leader: Shuraig is this to the team, according to comments written on his concept art.
Meaningful Name:
- Shuraig's upgrade, Tri-Brigade Arms "Bucephalus II", is named after Alexander the Great's horse. As Alexander the Great is considered by many to be a great leader, this is quite fitting for the leader of the Tri-Brigades himself.
- It also comes from the species name for the Bull-headed Shrike, Lanius Bucephalus.
Robot Buddy: Shuraig has a pet mecha-shrike, Tri-Brigade Mercourier, which is seen on his card artwork. Kitt also has one in her card artwork. By time of the final battle, only one Mercourier remains, depicted alongside him as Tri-Brigade Arms "Bucephalus II".
The Stoic: Shuraig is described as a man of few words by the lore.
Winged Humanoid: Shuraig appears fully human underneath his mask, while having bird wings.
Working Title: Shuraig is referred to as "Tri-Brigade Shuraig the One-Winged" on his concept art rather than his final name, Tri-Brigade Shuraig the Ominous Omen. Presumably, the former name was this for the monster before the latter name was decided and settled upon by the designers.

Ferrijit

Classy Cat-Burglar: Ferrijit is spurned by many and is often called a thieving cat, forcing her out of the tribe with her sister Kitt. Despite this, she's friendly to those who know her better.
Friendly Sniper: The Team Mom of the Tri-Brigade, as well as the resident marksman.
Goggles Do Something Unusual: According to her concept art, the lenses on Ferrijit's googles can be stacked, allowing for some benefits.
Homage: Ferrijit seems to be an homage to Lin from Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter. Both are cat girls who specialize in firearms (sniper rifles for Ferrijit and pistols for Lin). They also act as the Team Mom for their respective factions.
Innate Night Vision: According to her concept art, Ferrijit's eyes glow in the dark.
Mentor Archetype: According to comments written on her concept art, Ferrijit is this for the team.

Rugal

Ambiguously Human: More accurately, ambiguously humanoid. All of the Tri-Brigade monsters whose faces have been seen are shown to be overall humanoid, but possessing animal traits, such as Shuraig being a Winged Humanoid. Rugal however is The Faceless, and the only parts of his body uncovered are his wrists, ankles, tail, and the back of his head, all of which possess wolf's fur sans the latter, which has a full mane of hair, leaving unclear if he's a wolf-man, or similar to his compatriots in being a humanoid with wolf traits. Even his mask doesn't help, as while the shape would suggest he has a wolf's muzzle, Shuraig wears one resembling a bird's beak despite having a humanoid face, meaning it's possible Rugal too has a humanoid face underneath that mask. His face would finally be shown in a montage of shots in the Valuable Book EX 3, revealing he does in fact have a wolf's muzzle.
The Atoner: Rugal was known as the kinslayer in the past, but has made efforts in cleaning his image.
The Big Guy: Of the initial trio of Tri-Brigade Link Monsters, Rugal is physically the biggest, shown to tower over Ferrijit and acting as her cover while the two aided Albaz as Brigrand in his escape with Ecclesia. He also is the one who has to physically support the badly injured Shuraig when the Tri-Brigade reunite with Albaz at Golgonda for the final battle, carrying Shuraig on his back. When he uses the Gunblades, he uses the blades to smash his foes rather than cutting them up.
The Faceless: Unlike Shuraig, Ferrijit, and Kitt, Rugal has not been depicted with his mask off, leaving it unclear what he looks like outside of the possible idea he has a wolf's muzzle, something not even certain since Shuraig's mask looks like a bird's beak, but he has a humanoid face underneath it.
Fun Personified: Despite his dark past, Rugal acts as the mood-lifter of the team.
Guns Akimbo: He wields a pair of gunblades as his primary weapon.
Meaningful Name: Mixed with Ironic Name. His name, Rugal, comes from the French word for werewolf, Loup-Garou, befitting his nature as a wolfman. His epitaph however, "the Silver Sheller" is a reference to how silver bullets are a well-known weakness of werewolves.
Noble Wolf: Played With. In the past, he was known as the "kinslayer" and was very much a case of Savage Wolves. In the present however, he seeks to be The Atoner and is a major figure in the Tri-Brigade, putting him closer to this trope.
Status Effects: If Rugal is sent to the Graveyard, the controller can make all of the opponent's face-up monsters lose 300 ATK for each different Type of monster on the controller's field, until the end of the turn.

Springans

Captain Sargas

Springans Captain Sargas

^{Gigantic “Champion” Sargas}

The leader of the Springans, a group of soot-based lifeforms in armors that transform into his personal ammo.

Abnormal Ammo: Springans Merrymaker's artwork features a cluster of Rockey ready to be launched by Captain Sargas.
The Captain: As suggested by its name, Captain Sargas is this to the rest of the Main Deck monsters. Presumably, it commands them as a Badass Crew that man Exblowrer. In fact, he boldly takes on "Duke" Yul and "Reaper" Fum at the same time in the artwork of Therions' Charge after taking “Bull” Ain's weapons.
Combination Attack:
- Both Sargas and “King” Regulus deliver a Cross Bomber lariat on Gigantic Spright in the artwork of Spright Double Cross.
- The card artworks of Tallyho! Springans and Gigantic Thunder Cross show Shuraig and Sargas unleashing a powerful combination attack to defeat Alba Los.
Cross Counter: Both Sargas and “King” Regulus deliver this to each other in the artwork of Therions’ Cross, hinting at their incredible fight.
Foreshadowing: His ability to give any Springans Xyz monster an extra 500 ATK when attached as an Xyz Material was an early indicator at his connection to the Therions, as it is heavily reminiscent of the Therions' effects that are only accessible when they are equipped to another Therion.
Fusion Dance: Combines with Regulus and the Exblowrer to become Gigantic "Champion" Sargas, a Rank 8 Xyz that supports both the Springans and Therions archetypes.
Scorpion People: Since Sargas is based off the constellation of Scorpio, he has rocket launchers on various parts that resemble a scorpion's pinchers and a stinger tail as weapons.
Status Buff: If Captain Sargas is attached to a Springans Xyz Monster as an Xyz Material, that monster gains 500 ATK.
Stellar Theme Naming: It is noted that Sargas falls under the Therions' theme naming as Sargas represents Scorpio, hinting at a connection between the Springans and the Therions.
Uniformity Exception: Captain Sargas shares the Springans' standard effect of attaching himself to an Xyz Monster as material, but has several distinctions from his crew members. Whereas the others serve as floaters and extenders, Captain Sargas is capable of functioning on the field himself, possessing a destruction effect requiring the detaching of a material. He also gives a Status Buff to any Xyz Monster he's attached to, and whereas the other Springans are visually depicted as turning into ammunition and weaponry, Captain Sargas is the one who fires them.

Swordsoul

Chengying

The lord of the Sacred Summit, and guardian of the secrets of the Icejade.

The Good King: Chengying's title is Supreme Sovereign, hinting that he rules over the Swordsouls with a kind heart. He's willing to help Ecclesia and Albaz on their quest after using Chunjun to determine their worthiness.
Gameplay and Story Integration: In the story, Chengying is a Reasonable Authority Figure who welcomes Albaz and Ecclesia when they fled towards his territory. In gameplay, this is reflected by the fact Chengying can be Synchro Summoned using any generic materials.
Large and in Charge: He is the ruler of the Swordsouls, and absolutely towers over even Albion with a BFS nearly his own height.
The Worf Effect: According to the lore, Lubellion easily strikes down Chengying with a divine flame attack right as he confronts the traitorous Longyuan with Kosmochlor.

Mo Ye

^{Icejade Creation Aegirocassis}

Back from the Dead: She Came Back Strong as Aegirocassis thanks to Aegirine, the two's combined anger and hatred against Longyuan allowing them to defeat him.
Came Back Strong: Aegirine's fury at the death of Kosmochlor resurrects Mo Ye's body as the powerful guardian construct, Aegirocassis.
Impaled with Extreme Prejudice: As Aegirocassis, Mo Ye attacks by shooting rotating spikes that turn into Icejade patterns.
Power Floats: To show how strong she is, Mo Ye's shoulder armor floats above her at all times.
Power-Strain Blackout: It's stated that she exerts herself to the brink of death due to her sword not being truly hers.
Sole Survivor: Downplayed. With Chengying dead, Fleurdelis trapped within Quem, and Longyuan frozen solid by Ran Aegirine, Mo Ye is the only Swordsoul to be explicitly remaining. Chixiao, Chunjun, and Taia however, while not dead, are MIA, and Mo Ye did die from Longyuan's coup and had to be brought Back from the Dead as Aegirocassis, making her more an Icejade rather than a Swordsoul now.
Unwitting Pawn: Even she is unaware her sword is actually one half of Longyuan's, given to her to hide his darker nature.
Whip Sword: According to Mo Ye's concept art, her sword is a "Segmented whip-sword-styled rapier".
You Have Outlived Your Usefulness: Once Longyuan commits to his coup, he kills Mo Ye and takes back his sword.

Longyuan

Swordsoul Strategist Longyuan

^{Swordsoul Sinister Sovereign - Qixing Longyuan}

^{The Abyss Dragon Swordsoul}

Back for the Dead: He's initially defeated by Mirrorjade in retaliation for his betrayal of Chengying and massacre of the Icejade, but is brought back by being fused with the Supreme Sovereign Serpent of Golgonda, becoming The Abyss Dragon Swordsoul. He is shortly after defeated again, this time by Icejade Gymir Aegirine taking retribution for his killing of Kosmochlor.
Fusion Dance: Fuses with Supreme Sovereign Serpent of Golgonda to become The Abyss Dragon Swordsoul. The card isn't a Fusion monster in gameplay, but the artwork shows Longyuan's upper half attached to the Serpent's head. In a sense, Swordsoul Dragon of the Abyss isn't a Fusion monster because Longyuan is the dominant part of the fusion.
Ironic Name: Qixing Longyuan is named after a sword based on integrity, but the monster has no integrity at all and betrays the Swordsouls.
Turncoat: Longyuan harbors dark ambitions to rule the Swordsoul Sacred Summit himself and collaborates with the Despian invasion on the Icejade and the Swordsouls. He personally helps to kill Chengying and Kosmochlor.
The Worf Effect: Despite reclaiming Mo Ye's half of his blade and becoming the powerful Qixing Longyuan, Longyuan is destroyed by Mirrorjade in the artwork of Branded Blade. Even as The Abyss Dragon Swordsoul, Icejade Gymir Aegirine mercilessly bombards Longyuan in the artwork of Icejade Manifestation. Ran Aegirine's art shows a frozen Abyss Dragon Swordsoul to drive the point home.

Icejade

Kosmochlor

Hartman Hips: Kosmochlor's concept art describes her shape as an hourglass, implying she has wide hips.
The High Queen: Icejade Kosmochlor is the queen of the Icejade. She even has a crown floating above her head to denote her status.
Noblewoman's Laugh: According to a note in Kosmochlor's concept art, she laughs a lot for an Icejade monster.
The Worf Effect: According to the lore, Lubellion easily strikes down Kosmochlor with a divine flame attack right as she confronts the traitorous Longyuan with Chengying.
Your Days Are Numbered: According to Kosmochlor's concept art, her body is about to reach its limit. She can't move as freely as her younger counterparts in the Icejade archetype. Her death is confirmed in the artwork of Icejade Curse, as her corpse had broken down into pieces.

Aegirine

^{Icejade Gymir Aegirine}

^{Icejade Ran Aegirine}

A Child Shall Lead Them: She's one of the youngest of the Icejade, but she's chosen by Kosmochlor to be her successor, and is made such right as Kosmochlor dies in front of her.
Gameplay and Story Integration:
- Gymir Aegirine is a Level 10 Synchro monster requiring a WATER Tuner and another non-Tuner; Aegirine herself happens to be Level 3 while her creation, Aegirocassis is a Level 7 WATER Tuner.
- After defeating the Swordsoul traitor, Ran Aegirine takes Longyuan's effects, letting her Synchro Summon into Gymir Aegirine with ease. Her art even shows a frozen Abyss Dragon Swordsoul, showing her triumph over Longyuan.
Meaningful Name:
- Her evolved form, Gymir Aegirine, is named after the Jotun Gymir of Norse Mythology, who was also the God of the Sea, befitting her becoming the leader of the Icejade.
- Rán is a sea goddess belonging to Norse mythology. She's the wife of Gymir.
Never Be Hurt Again: Aegirine retreats from the world after the events of the main story, sealing herself and the other Icejades within the Sacred Summit permanently, shown in the non-archetypal (but still clearly tied artistically) spell card Million-Century Ice Prison.
The Power of Hate: Her transformation into Gymir Aegirine, and the creation of Aegirocassis, are fueled by her hatred of Longyuan.
Shrinking Violet: Concept art notes that Aegirine was a rather shy and timid girl with a tendency to cry a lot, even being depicted hiding behind a rock in her concept art.
Took a Level in Badass: After she's named leader of the Icejade, she goes from a Shrinking Violet into a competent leader of her people, quickly creating her own Cool Ship in the form of Aegirocassis, and powering herself up by becoming Gymir Aegirine.
You Are in Command Now: Kosmochlor names her the leader of the Icejade right on her deathbed, and Aegirine takes to the role immediately in order to avenge the many Icejade killed by the Despian assault led by Longyuan.

Despia

Aluber

Aluber the Jester of Despia

^{Masquerade the Blazing Dragon}

^{Lubellion the Searing Dragon}

^{Alba-Lenatus the Abyss Dragon}

^{The Bystial Lubellion}

^{The Bystial Aluber}

A thing separated from the Abyss. It mocked the light and deceived the darkness

A mysterious masked member of the Despia, who also has the ability to turn into dragons.

Ambiguously Related: A wallpaper added to Master Duel depicting "Branded Fusion" refers to Aluber and Albaz's power as "Dragon Alchemy", a term associated with the Dracoslayer universe implying some sort of connection between the two.
Big Bad: He's both directly and indirectly responsible for several of the tragedies throughout the storyline.
Energy Absorption: To become Lubellion, Aluber absorbs some of Albaz's draconic transformation energy. His alt card artwork shows him taking on Dis Pater's features, as if he absorbed Maximus's energy before his final defeat by the heroes.
Evil Counterpart: Aluber the Jester of Despia strongly resembles Fallen of Albaz. He has a similar name, and the same stats, aside from being a Fairy instead of a Dragon. He also can search for cards in the Branded archetype, which are meant to support fusions, particularly those using Fallen of Albaz. Aluber also comes with a fusion spell known as Branded in Red and can even turn into a dragon as well. When unmasked in his token card art, he even resembles Albaz in a twisted manner. Taken to its logical conclusion with the reveal of his "Bystial Aluber" card, which is Dragon-type and treated as Fallen of Albaz on the field or in the GY.
Evil Redhead: Beneath his mask he has wavy red hair and also antagonizes the heroes at every turn.
Fusion Dance: Alba Los appears to be the result of The Bystial Lubellion fusing with Despian Proskenion. It's not a Fusion monster because Aluber is the one controlling Alba Los's body.
Homage: As he was a splinter of a renowned being, Aluber seems to be an homage to Yuri from Yu Gi Oh ARCV and Fou-lu from Breath of Fire IV. And all three fuse during a crucial point in the story.
Karma Houdini: Aluber manages to get away with stealing Albaz's draconic powers for himself and now sits in his throne room in the Abyss, plotting his next move.
Light Is Not Good: Lubellion and Alba Los are LIGHT monsters, and the ultimate forms that Aluber takes on towards the end of the Abyss story.
Literal Split Personality: Aluber's token card lore describes him as "a thing separated from the abyss". This likely references his and Albaz's combined form, Alba-Lenatus the Abyss Dragon.
Meaningful Name: Aluber is a portmanteau of "albus" (Latin for white) and "Ruber" (Latin for red).
Monster Clown: According to Aluber's concept art designer, he was meant to be a monster clown.
“The request was for a clown, and so for someone like me who’s afraid of clowns, drawing him was like having a nightmare (even if the actual card illustration doesn’t look that much like a clown). I believe there’s a powerful force behind clown masks.”
Orcus on His Throne: In The Bystial Aluber's artwork, Aluber slouches on his throne, contemplating his next action.
Satanic Archetype: His true Archetype, the Bystial, have a Beast of Revelation theming, and he leads them. This would make Aluber the Devil of the Abyss storyline, and it's implied that he has been manipulating Maximus to do his bidding. Aluber's original type is Fairy (Angel in the OCG), which coupled with his DARK typing sets the "fallen angel" parallel even firmer.
- This is made explicit by his draconic form, "Masquerade the Blazing Dragon". While Aluber's humanoid form is a Fairy (Angel in the OCG), his draconic form is a Fiend (Demon in the OCG). And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.^noteQuoted from 2 Corinthians 11:14 (NIV). It's hard to be any more blatant than being both named and typed after a description of the devil from The Bible itself!
Uniformity Exception: While most Despia members appear to be twisted humanoids or non-humanoid "things", Aluber is distinct in that he appears to be a completely normal masked human with normal hands.
Weredragon: Like Albaz, Aluber can change into a dragon as well, though he doesn't actually gain the Dragon typing until he steals the former's power.

Others

Supreme Sovereign Serpent of Golgonda

Supreme Sovereign Serpent of Golgonda is a gigantic serpent that Ecclesia, Albaz, and the Springans encountered in the Gold Golgonda desert. It seems to have some unknown connections to the Hole, and drove Albaz mad during their battle, forcing his transformation into Albion. It was eventually defeated by Fleurdelis, who blasted both Albaz and Golgonda with a bolt of lightning.

Arc Symbol: The patterns on its body are the same criss-crossed purple rhombi that have appeared in many other places in the storyline, usually in association with the powers of the Hole.
Connected All Along: According to Valuable Book EX 3, the Serpent is actually a former member of the Swordsouls, having been once one of their ranks until it was exiled following a particularly bloody war. Longyuan kept in contact with it however, and the two plotted to enact revenge on the rest of the Swordsouls by killing them, the two fusing into The Abyss Dragon Swordsoul as part of said plan.
The Corruption: It has been affected by the Hole so much that its tail is made entirely of Hole energy. In addition, it turns every place it crosses into Holes.
Fusion Dance: Fuses with Longyuan to become The Abyss Dragon Swordsoul. The card isn't a Fusion monster in gameplay, but the artwork shows Longyuan's upper half attached to the Serpent's head.
Snakes Are Sinister: Acts as the antagonist during the Gold Golgonda desert arc. As it attacks the protagonists and causes Albaz to go berserk while being connected to the Hole, it is quite sinister indeed.
That's No Moon: Supreme Sovereign Serpent of Golgonda lurks underneath the sands of Great Sand Sea - Gold Golgonda.

Fallen of Argyros (UNMARKED SPOILERS)

Fallen of Argyros

A mysterious being seen following the battle with Maximus watching from a distance. Their origin, connection to others, and motives serve as part of the Sequel Hook in the ending.

Animated Armor: Their "body" is largely comprised of the discarded armor of Lubellion with the energy of the Sprights flowing through it. The armor isn't all encompassing however, rather it is held together by the Spright energy, the purple energy acting in lieu of forearms, knees, and a waist.
Continuity Nod: They have details connecting them to multiple different elements of the Abyss lore.
- The main portion of their "body" is derived from the discarded armor of Bystial Lubellion, a powered up form of Aluber.
- Their possessing Spright energy and Kitts' cloak is a result of being cast off from Spright Sprind, a machine created by Kitt using the armor she made from Sprind the Irondash Dragon, and two captured Sprights.
- The name "Argyros" is derived from "Argyro", the name of the AI controlling the Endless Engine Argyro System responsible for creating the Therions and the Sprights.
- They're shown holding the necklace of Captain Sargas.
- The prefix "Fallen of" is a nod to Albaz's first card, "Fallen of Albaz", after Titaniklad the Ash Dragon was struck down upon falling from the Hole, and left as the amnesiac Albaz. The original version of the name, "落胤" (rakuin), in turn is derived from how they are effectively a bastard offspring made from cast off pieces of their "parents", in turn calling back to Titaniklad's original Japanese name: "Bastard the Incineration Dragon".
- According to the concept art, Fallen of Argyros still contains the personalities of the Sprights that make up its body.
Creating Life Is Unforeseen: Their existence is entirely owed to an accident. They were born from the "cast off" energies from the final battle, namely portions of the Argyro AI, Spright Energy, Lubellion's discarded armor, etc. As a result, they were born practically a Blank Slate, and are only marching in their current direction because of an innate "feeling" drawing them towards something. The art of Blink Out has Fallen of Argyros standing on top of the defeated Therions, planning something big with them.
Last Episode, New Character: They appear at the very end of lore, specifically in the final set to specifically support archetypes in the lore, "Cyberstorm Access", their existence serving as part of the Sequel Hook for the next act in the lore.
Walking Spoiler: It's hard to talk about them without referencing the outcome of the fight against Maximus and Aluber.

Characters / Yu-Gi-Oh! Abyss

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Characters

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Dogmatika

Tri-Brigade

Springans

Swordsoul

Icejade

Despia

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Fallen of Argyros

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Characters / Yu-Gi-Oh! Abyss

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Characters

Protagonists

Dogmatika

Tri-Brigade

Springans

Swordsoul

Icejade

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Fallen of Argyros

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