Greetings, community. First of all, a big thanks to everyone who read, reviewed, favorited and followed this story! I'm very grateful to all of you! Second, I expected this chapter to come out much later, but I was able to finish it earlier than anticipated since I had some free time. So without further ado, here's chapter 2. Enjoy (hopefully)!


Chapter 2: Pendulum vs Pendulum

Maiami City Airport.

Following his superior, Akaba Reiji's orders, Nakajima was awaiting the arrival of the highest ranking person in LDS apart from the President next to a luxurious limo. Although the heat was quite intense, the burly man showed no discomfort whatsoever.

After several minutes, Nakajima spotted the private jet belonging to said person slowly descending to the landing pad, before coming to a complete stop. Immediately afterwards, its side door opened, out of which emerged a woman with magenta, heart-shaped hair and blue eyes clad in a dark pink-colored blouse and skirt. Nakajima rushed to meet her, inclining his head slightly before her.

"It has been some time, Chairwoman Akaba."

Indeed, the woman standing in front of Nakajima was Akaba Himika, mother to Akaba Reiji and Chairwoman of LDS, who smiled at Nakajima's greeting.

"Indeed, it has been some time, Nakajima. I was met with some unexpected delays, but I was able to accomplish my goal successfully in the end and that's all that matters."

"Then, am I correct to assume that the acquisition was successful?"

Nakajima asked as she opened the limousine's door for Himika.

"Of course." Himika responded as the car began moving. "Everything is proceeding according to plan. With this, LDS is one step closer in having a presence all around the world. That should allow me and Reiji-san to easily scout the most powerful Duelists in the globe, all in preparation for 'that' day."

"That's very good to hear. However…"

Nakajima's hesitation was not lost on Himika.

"What is it? Did something happen while I was away?"

"…I didn't want to bother you since you were busy with the negotiations and everything." Nakajima began explaining. "Truth be told, there have been a number of…incidents over the past week that have caused quite a ripple."

"Incidents…you say? What sort of incidents?"

Prompted by Himika, Nakajima gave her a brief summary of everything regarding the sudden emergence of a new form of summoning.

"However, keep in mind that I'm not fully informed about all the details surrounding this case." Nakajima ended his report thus. "For more details, you should speak to the President."

"So it would seem…"

Himika muttered, her brow creased into a frown.

Upon arriving at the LDS tower after a few minutes, Himika quickly stepped outside the car and made a beeline for the top floor, ignoring the greetings of the personnel around her. She then quickly stepped inside Reiji's office without bothering to knock. If Reiji was surprised by this sudden intrusion, he didn't show it.

"Welcome home, Mother." Reiji greeted Himika. "You seem to be in an awful hurry."

"Reiji-san, is what I heard from Nakajima true?" Himika immediately questioned her son. "Apart from Fusion, Ritual, Synchro and Xyz, a new summoning method has appeared?"

Reiji fixed his glasses before responding.

"It's true, Mother. Its first recorded use was about a week ago."

Pressing a button on a remote, Reiji showed his mother a playback of Yuya's Duel with Strong Ishijima, where Yuya used Pendulum Summon in order to dominate the match.

"It appears this new summoning method is called Pendulum."

"Pendulum?"

"It involves placing two special Monster cards called Pendulum cards into your Duel Disk." Reiji elaborated. "Then, you can Special Summon multiple high-level Monsters whose Level is within the Pendulum Scale without releasing. It's something that has never been observed before so far."

Himika had a look of apprehension on her face.

"Never seen before… Don't tell me that man is also involved with it?"

"It's possible, although I find it highly unlikely." Reiji stated. "If it was some sort of secret weapon of his, he wouldn't flaunt it in front of everyone's eyes like that. It would have probably been kept hidden until the right time."

"That's true." Himika admitted. "In that case, do we have any leads as to where this strange form of Summoning originated from?"

"None whatsoever. It's still under investigation. However, thanks to the data we've gathered so far and our analysis, we have almost completely grasped its mechanics. Furthermore, the first prototype Pendulum cards are ready for testing as well."

"Nothing less expected from you, Reiji-san." Himika commented with a smile. "You're a quick worker as always."

"Thank you. However, our most pressing concern at the moment is the Duelists who utilize Pendulum Summoning."

"Duelists?" Himika wondered. "As in more than one?"

"That's right." Reiji confirmed as he pressed another button on his remote, showing Yuya's profile on the screen. "The originator is named Sakaki Yuya, a fourteen-year-old boy in the Junior Youth class who attends You Show Duel School, a small Duel School which focuses on Entertainment Duels."

"It says here his win rate is about fifty percent." Himika commented in astonishment. "How was such an average Duelist belonging to Junior Youth able to create a brand-new summoning method?"

"The important thing is that he's the son of that Sakaki Yusho."

Reiji stated in a low tone.

"Sakaki Yusho, you say?" Himika's gaze hardened. "He's the son of that famous Duelist who vanished three years ago and may have joined the enemy?"

"It's still too soon to rush into conclusions about that." Reiji commented. "Now, as for the other Pendulum user…"

After pressing another button, Yukio's profile appeared on the screen this time, much to Himika's surprise.

"Tachibana…Yukio? The problem child you insisted we should invite to the Maiami Championship? Don't tell me…you knew he was a Pendulum user beforehand?"

"I only discovered it just yesterday thanks to a Duel he had with Sawatari-sensei's son." Reiji said with a small smile. "You could call it a stroke of good fortune."

"It appears your willfulness has paid dividends after all, Reiji-san." Himika admitted. "Though I still don't understand why you were so adamant to include him in the Championship in the first place. His past might rub people the wrong way and affect our reputation."

"We've had this discussion before, Mother." Reiji responded with a slightly exasperated tone. "In order to oppose Academia, we need Duelists with actual combat experience in our side, and Tachibana Yukio is the closest we've got in that. Furthermore, it's an undeniable fact that he's strong. What concerns me about him is something else."

"Something else?"

"During his Duel with Sawatari Shingo, he utilized both Ritual and Xyz apart from Pendulum. And the summoning energy used in both cases was way past the norm. Of course, you are aware of what this means, correct?"

"That he might not be from 'here', yes?"

"Indeed." Reiji confirmed Himika's speculation. "And if that's the case, where does he stand? Is he an ally or an enemy? Depending on the answer to that question, things might get…complicated."

"That is troublesome…" Himika admitted with a sigh. "So, what do you plan on doing about it?"

"For now, nothing too drastic." Reiji stated. "It's a simple matter to keep him under surveillance as long as he's using the lodgings we provided to him. Meanwhile, I have people running more extensive background checks on him for signs of any discrepancies. If one does surface, we'll consider our next step then."

"I see. That does sound like the most prudent course of action."

"Regarding yesterday night, there's also another issue we must address."

Reiji suddenly informed Himika, causing her to look at him in concern.

"Another issue? What do you mean?"

"It appears that right after Tachibana Yukio and Sawatari Shingo's Duel, a mysterious Duelist appeared and assaulted the students present there, including Sawatari Shingo." Reiji informed her. "Furthermore, the attacker was an Xyz user whose summoning energy was also abnormally high."

"Another possible intruder?" Himika put on a thinking expression. "Did the students in question say anything about this mysterious Duelist?"

"Now this is where things get interesting." Reiji commented. "Sawatari Shingo and the other students insist that the perpetrator was none other than Sakaki Yuya."

"Sakaki Yuya…you say? This is indeed interesting…"

Himika showed a sly smile at this, prompting Reiji to sigh.

"…I know that expression, Mother. What are you planning?"

"Reiji-san, while it's horrible that our precious students were attacked, there's a golden opportunity here." Himika stated, wearing the same expression. "And I know just the way to capitalize on it…"


"Ah, man, a good night's sleep is slowing turning into a precious commodity for me…"

Yukio groaned as he slowly got up from bed and opened the curtains, allowing the sunlight to flood inside the room. Just like every other night for the past few days, his sleep had been plagued by nightmares. This time, however, a new scene of devastation had presented itself before his eyes. While the ruined cityscape remained the same, instead of a giant dragon, giant mechas could be seen demolishing a once-beautiful city while terrified screams and maniacal laughter were heard in the background.

He was honestly getting sick of those dystopic visions, to the point where he seriously considered visiting a shrink in the hopes they could find out where these dreams originated from. This just made no sense to him. If there was anything he should have nightmares about, it should have been his time in 'that' place…

Yukio quickly interrupted that train of thought. His mood was already sour enough without having to dig up the dreadful memories of old times. So he opted to turn things around by doing what he loved most after Dueling; having a good meal by taking advantage of the excellent services provided by the hotel he was currently staying.

Regarding his current lodgings, Yukio was mightily surprised when he arrived at the address that was sent on his D-Pad and found a high-class hotel towering in front of him. He was expecting some sort of run-down apartment, not living in the lap of luxury (not that he was complaining mind you). The only ones more surprised than him were the employees of the hotel when they realized that the rough-looking young man before them had been given one of their most expensive suits, all charges paid in advance.

It seemed the bigshots in Leo Corporation really wanted to get on his good side for some reason. So far, they were doing a pretty good job at it. However, as people say, 'there's no such thing as a free lunch'. Yukio was sure there would be a price to pay for all these benefits, but he intended to milk them for all they were worth in the meantime.

So, after making an order through the intercom, Yukio stepped outside on the balcony, where he could see a large part of Maiami City in all its glory. The food arrived shortly afterwards and he began digging in while also ruminating about yesterday night's events.

The most troubling part was the sudden appearance of the mysterious Duelist. Not only did he resemble Yuya and himself to an uncanny degree, he also had the ability to inflict damage even outside of a Real Solid Vision system. Furthermore…

"Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon…was it?"

There was also that terrifying dragon he possessed, a creature filled with hatred and malice. Taking out his Deck, Yukio pulled out Dark Anthelion Dragon and stared at it. Sawatari had called the two of them comrades yesterday due to the similar effects between their monsters. Although it was a ridiculous notion, perhaps he was on to something after all. It was true that the two dragons greatly resembled each other, although Dark Anthelion never gave off that feeling of terrible rage. It was more of a battle maniac in his opinion, just like the rest of his dragons. Was it possible that there was some sort of connection between them and, by extension, himself and the mysterious Duelist?

"Are you even listening to yourself…? Who's the one jumping to far-fetched conclusions now?"

Yukio let out a sigh. Without concrete evidence, he could make baseless assumptions all he wanted and never find answers. Instead, he opted to enjoy the remainder of his breakfast, which was top-notch. It was too bad he was out of hot sauce, which would have made it perfect. He'd have to resupply soon enough.

After he was satiated, he took out the address Yuya had given him yesterday. You Show Duel School was a fair bit of distance from here, but not too far that he couldn't reach it by foot. However, judging by the time, Yuya and the others were probably still in regular school now.

"Perhaps I should take a walk around town while I'm waiting…"

However, what came to Yukio's mind were yesterday's strange events, events he found himself involved into because he decided to take an aimless stroll around town.

"…On second thought, staying inside doesn't sound like such a bad idea after all…"

Upon saying so, Yukio threw himself on the couch in front of the oversized TV and began zapping from channel to channel…


A couple of hours later…

"This is…You Show Duel School…?"

Yukio muttered so in surprise upon seeing the mishmash of mismatched objects haphazardly stacked on top of one another in front of him.

Arriving at You Show Duel School had proven to be simple enough. However, upon witnessing the actual building, Yukio had trouble believing that this was the Duel School the famous Sakaki Yusho had founded. This place looked like an accident ready to happen at any moment.

"Which nut-job actually approved of this structural hazard…?" Yukio muttered. "Whoever it was, they should be kicked out of their post immediately."

Then again, perhaps there was some hidden meaning to its design, like training the Duelists for the acrobatic acts common in Action Duels. That or they ran out of funds midway during its construction. Yukio suspected it was most likely the latter.

"Now, how do I get inside?" Yukio wondered. "Do I simply just walk in like that?"

Before Yukio could decide on a course of action, his quandary was solved when a middle-aged man with a mix of brown and orange hair appeared at the entrance of the school. He was dressed in a red and orange jumpsuit with a green trim and red fire design. Underneath that, he wore a dark blue shirt with another fire design and a white whistle. Yukio assumed he was probably the gym teacher here.

"Hello there." The man greeted him casually. "May I help you with something, young man? Oh, don't tell me you're interested in enrolling in our school?"

The man looked so hopeful at that prospect that Yukio assumed they were probably quite desperate for new students. Although he felt a bit bad about dashing his hopes, he still replied resolutely.

"No, I'm not." Predictably enough, the man's face fell at Yukio's blunt statement. "I am an acquaintance of Yuya and Yuzu-san. Yuya asked me to meet him today here in order to discuss about a little incident we were involved in yesterday."

"Oh, then you must be Tachibana Yukio-kun!" The man exclaimed in excitement. "I've heard everything about you from Yuzu and Yuya! I'm Hiiragi Shuzo, Principal of You Show Duel School and Yuzu's father! For helping out my daughter, I'm in your debt!"

Ehhhhhhhhhhhhh!? Yukio screamed inwardly. Seriously!? This shoddy-dressed guy is the Principal of this place!? And what's more, he's Yuzu-san's father!? The apple couldn't have fallen further from the tree if it had tumbled into a ravine and ended up in the center of the Earth!

Needless to say, Yukio was deeply shocked. However, he did his best to keep his emotions well-hidden under a mask of polite indifference. With apologies to Principal Hiiragi, he could see why this school didn't exactly attract a lot of students. The general atmosphere of this place probably wasn't helping any prospective applicant take this place seriously.

"As for Yuya, Yuzu and the rest, they haven't come yet." Shuzo informed Yukio. "However, they should be here shortly. How about waiting for them inside? I'll also give you a tour of the place in the meantime."

"Oh no, I wouldn't want to trouble you—"

"No trouble at all, Yukio-kun!" Shuzo said with a jovial expression. "It's the least I could for my daughter's savior!"

'Savior' is a bit of an exaggeration, Shuzo-san…

Yukio truly thought so. It wasn't like she was in any mortal danger…at least not until that mysterious Duelist and his crazy dragon showed up and started tearing the place apart. However, he couldn't get a word edgewise as Shuzo started practically dragging him all over the place and explaining every little detail with an enthusiastic attitude. Yukio could tell that he really cared about this school despite its modest state and was passionate about it, something which brought a small smile to his face. People who put their entire heart and soul into something were people worth respecting in his book.

Eventually, the tour was over and the two of them sat down across each other, with Yukio accepting a glass of juice from Shuzo. After taking a look around, Yukio spotted a picture hanging on the wall showing younger versions of Yuya, Yuzu and Shuzo-san alongside a blond-haired woman and a black-haired man dressed in a performer's outfit.

"That picture was taken when You Show first opened." Shuzo informed Yukio after he followed his stare. "Even though the opening ceremony took place not even five years ago, it sometimes feels like it's been ages."

"That other man next to you, Shuzo-san… That's Sakaki Yusho, Yuya's father, right?"

In response to Yukio's query, Shuzo nodded affirmatively.

"Yes, he is. The idea of opening this school was all his. He wanted to spread his, no, our ideal that Duels are to be used in order to bring smiles to the world."

Bringing smiles…through Dueling, huh?

For Yukio, such a thing was utterly inconceivable. In most of the Duels he had participated, fighting in order to entertain the audience was the furthest thing from his mind. It was kind of hard to think about such things when one was struggling with all his might simply to survive. However, he chose to keep his thoughts to himself. People from different backgrounds had different ideals after all. Instead, he opted to ask a more crucial question.

"I heard that Yuya's father abruptly vanished three years ago right before an important match, causing quite a bit of stir." Yukio said. "As his friend, don't you have any idea where he disappeared to?"

Shuzo put his hand in his head with a troubled expression.

"No, unfortunately, I don't have the faintest idea what happened to him. All I know is that Yusho is not the sort of person who would abandon a Duel no matter what other people say. Whatever his reason was for suddenly disappearing like this, I'm sure it was an important one."

Important enough to leave his family and friends behind, and have the label of coward placed on him? Yukio wondered. Did he run off to save the world or something?

"No matter what other people say, I'm sure Yusho will return to us one day." Shuzo resolutely declared with a guts pose. "And until he does, it's my job as his best friend to uphold his legacy and spread the wonder of Entertainment Duels across the world with burning passion and a hot-blooded spirit!"

"…I see." Yukio said with some hesitation. "Well…good luck with that."

Although Yukio didn't care much for Entertainment Duels, he couldn't help but admire Shuzo's spirit…along with feeling a little uncomfortable with his over-the-top mannerisms and behavior.

Fortunately, at that moment, Yuya and Yuzu arrived, accompanied by a young man with a huge frame and hair styled in a pompadour. Right behind them, four young children could be seen chatting excitedly among themselves.

"Ah, Yukio." Yuya greeted him with a smile. "Glad you could manage to come."

"Hello, Yukio-san…"

Yuzu also greeted him, albeit a bit absentmindedly. Her mind seemed to be occupied with something. Yukio assumed she still felt troubled about last night's events.

"Yo. How's it going, Yuya? And Yuzu-san, please drop the honorifics. Calling me simply Yukio is just fine."

"Alright, but you have to call me Yuzu as well."

"Deal."

"Yuya, Yuzu, who is this person?" The burly youth questioned his friends. "I, the man Gongenzaka, have never seen him before here."

Yukio felt sweat forming on his head. Who addressed themselves in the third person nowadays? The young man either had a really big idea about himself or was raised in a very strict and traditional environment.

"Ah, this is the person I was talking to you about, Gongenzaka." Yuya informed his friend. "This is Tachibana Yukio. He helped Yuzu yesterday while she was facing Sawatari."

"Oh, so this is him." Gongenzaka turned to Yukio and suddenly bowed his head. "Allow me, the man Gongenzaka, to offer my deepest gratitude for helping out one of my friends! You truly are a respectable individual!"

OK, this is getting a bit awkward. Yukio thought. Is this guy always reacting so overdramatically to everything?

"But where are my manners!?" Gongenzaka suddenly shouted. "I have yet to introduce myself! That's unforgivable! I, the man Gongenzaka, have brought shame upon my family's name with my disrespectful attitude!"

And old-fashioned upbringing it is. Yukio was afraid for a moment the boy in front of him might actually execute seppuku as penance for his 'disrespectful' actions.

"My name is Gongenzaka Noburu." The young man announced proudly and extended his hand. "I am the heir to the Gongenzaka Dojo, which teaches the Steadfast Dueling style. It is a pleasure to meet you, Yukio-san."

"It's also a pleasure to meet you, Gongenzaka-san." Yukio grasped Gongenzaka's outstretched hand. "Like I told Yuzu earlier, feel free to drop the honorifics. Also, I have to admit I'm curious as to what exactly this Steadfast Dueling style you mentioned is."

"Allow me to explain it to you then." Gongenzaka began explaining. "Steadfast Dueling is—"

"It's an Action Duel style where the Duelist focuses on remaining completely rooted to their position without chasing for Action Cards." Yuya cut in from the side. "Such Duelists usually have a full Monster Deck and rely on monster effects during their Duels."

"Yuya!" Gongenzaka cried in outrage. "I was explaining our style to Yukio! To think that you would interrupt me, the man Gongenzaka…i-it's unforgivable!"

"Sorry, sorry, Gongenzaka." Yuya raised his hands in a placating manner. "I got a bit carried away there."

Ignoring the small quarrel between the two friends, Yukio thought about what he just heard about Steadfast Dueling. Not chasing for Action Cards during an Action Duel was one thing, but actually using a Deck full of Monsters…he just couldn't imagine how that worked.

Perhaps I should duel Gongenzaka at some point. This has got me really curious.

Yukio thought so with a small grin, but his thought process was interrupted when the only female among the younger group approached him and introduced herself.

"I'm Ayukawa Ayu." The red-haired girl said. "Thank you for helping Yuzu-oneechan."

"I'm Harada Futoshi." The plump boy next to her introduced himself next. "Good job on giving that idiot Sawatari the shivers yesterday!"

The shivers? Yukio wondered. What's up with that?

"My name's Yamashiro Tatsuya." A blue-haired boy on the other side of Ayu said. "It's nice to meet you, Yukio-senpai."

Finally, the last person, a cute young boy with light cyan hair that was busy licking a lollipop, stepped forward and addressed Yukio with a wide smile.

"I'm Shiunin Sora, a recently-enrolled student here. You can call me Sora. Let's get along from now on!"

"It's very nice to meet all of you, Ayu-chan, Futoshi-kun, Tatsuya-kun and Sora." Yukio greeted them in return. "I assume all of you are students of You Show Duel School, right?"

"Yes, that's right." Tatsuya spoke. "We all aspire to become great Entertainment Duelists like Yuya-oniichan there."

Hoh, looks like Yuya has a devoted fan already.

Yukio thought. At that moment, Gongenzaka addressed him.

"What about you, Yukio? Judging from the fact that I've never chanced upon you in Maiami Second High, I assume you're not from around. What brought you to Maiami City?"

"I was invited to participate in the Maiami Championship." Yukio explained. "And before you ask, no, I'm not affiliated with any Duel School."

"You are a self-taught Duelist then?" Gongenzaka commented with evident astonishment. "And your level was high enough to attract Leo Corporation's attention? Your parents must be very proud of their son."

Gongenzaka's comment caused Yukio's expression to fall somewhat.

"I suppose they would…if I had any in the first place…"

The mood became somber at Yukio's statement.

"…You don't have any parents?" Yuya wondered. "That means…you're an orphan, Yukio?"

"That's right." Yukio responded to Yuya. "I was left in the doorstep of an orphanage as a baby and was raised there. I don't know who my biological parents are or whether they're even still alive."

And, truth be told, he didn't care much. These people had seen fit to abandon him so he, in turn, had cast them out of his heart. As far as he was concerned, the couple who owned the orphanage and the rest of the kids there were his real family. They had all showered him with love and affection despite the hardships they faced daily, and Yukio would be eternally grateful to them for that.

Suddenly, Gongenzaka prostrated himself before Yukio in dogeza.

"Erm, what are you doing, Gongenzaka…?"

"Please accept my sincerest apologies for my thoughtless words!" Gongenzaka yelled with his head bowed. "I, the man Gongenzaka, will make amends in whichever way you see fit!"

"T-that's OK, Gongenzaka." Yukio stated, overwhelmed by his new friend's excessive apology. "You didn't offend me or anything, so there's no need to go that far…"

"Very well, Yukio." Gongenzaka said as he picked himself up. "However, I, the man Gongenzaka, apologize once more for bringing up such a sensitive subject."

"No, like I said, it's fine…"

As Yukio said so with a sigh, Sora suddenly chimed in.

"The mood has become a bit too awkward for my tastes. I know! Why don't we liven things up a bit, You Show style?"

"What do you mean, Sora?" Yuzu asked in confusion. "Do you have something in mind?"

"Isn't it obvious?" Sora said while pointing at Yukio and Yuya with his lollipop. "Let's have these two participate in an Action Duel! I have to admit I'm quite interested in Yukio's strength as a Duelist and how he will fare against Yuya after hearing all that. Don't the rest of you feel the same way?"

Murmurs of assent could be heard from the rest of the on-lookers. Frankly, Yukio himself was also intrigued about what kind of Duelist Yuya, the originator of Pendulum Summoning, was. This suggestion from Sora was perfect to satisfy his curiosity.

"Well, you two, you heard Sora's idea." Shuzo said. "What do you think?"

"I'm game." Yukio declared resolutely. "I always welcome strong opponents."

"A hot-blooded answer expected from you, Yukio!" Shuzo said with apparent enthusiasm. "What about you, Yuya?"

"If Yukio's in, I'm in too." Yuya also declared with a smile. "I'll demonstrate to you our prided Entertainment Duel, Yukio."

"I'm looking forward to it, Yuya."

The two Duelists quickly moved to the Real Solid Vision arena, while Shuzo headed for the control room and the rest of the gang gathered in the chamber adjacent to the arena in order to observe the Duel.

"Since we didn't get a chance to use this during Yuya's Duel with Sora, let's bring it out now!" Shuzo said. "Action Field, on!"

As the Real Solid Vision device initialized, the bare arena where Yukio and Yuya were standing transformed into a town straight out of an old western.

"Field Spell, Wild West Duel Town!" Shuzo declared. "You two, go wild to your heart's content here and have a hot-blooded Duel!"

"The Wild West, huh?" Yukio commented after surveying the field. "Although I'm more of a sci-fi fan myself, I have to admit there's something compelling about old westerns too."

"Are you ready, Yukio?" Yuya asked the silver-haired teen.

"Anytime, Yuya." Yukio responded with a smile. "Show me what you've got!"

"Alright then!" Yuya declared enthusiastically and began chanting. "Duelists locked in battle!"

What's he-oh right, the Action Duel chant.

"Kicking the earth and dancing in the air alongside their monsters!"

Yukio continued with equal fervor as Yuya spoke again.

"They storm through this field!"

"Behold! This is the newest and greatest evolution of Dueling!"

"Action—!"

[Duel!]

They both shouted in unison.

Yukio – LP: 4000

Yuya – LP: 4000

"I'll take the first turn." Yuya declared. "I Set a Monster face-down and place two cards face-down. Turn end."

After that, Yuya began running towards the edges of the town.

"Trying to look for Action Cards, huh?" Yukio muttered as he chased after Yuya. "Don't think I'll let you do that so easily. My turn! Draw! I summon Black Fang Magician (Dark/Spellcaster/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 1700/DEF: 800/LV: 4/SC: 8) in attack position!"

A magician dressed in black and blue robes appeared on Yukio's field, holding a staff with an object resembling a fang at its tip.

"Next up, I equip Black Fang Magician with the Equip Spell Card Accursed Wand. This increases my monster's attack by 800 (ATK: 1700→2500). Battle! My Black Fang Magician attacks your Set monster! Accursed Magic Lance!"

A stream of dark energy formed at the tip of Black Fang Magician's staff and shot forward in the shape of a spear, piercing through Yuya's face-down monster and sending him flying backwards before he could get the Action Card he was aiming for. That enabled Yukio to pick it up instead, opting to use it later since its effect wasn't applicable now.

"The effect of the destroyed Entermate Camelump (Earth/Beast/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 800/DEF: 1800/LV: 4/SC: 2) activates." Yuya announced as he got up. "The monster that destroyed it loses 800 attack (Black Fang Magician ATK: 2500→1700)."

"Now the attack boost Black Fang got from Accursed Wand is essentially nullified." Tatsuya commented. "Let's see what Yukio-senpai will do next."

"I activate the effect of Accursed Wand." Yukio stated. "By banishing both it and the equipped Monster, I can draw two cards from my Deck. I'll place two cards face-down and end my turn."

"Hmmm, he's left himself wide open there by tributing Black Fang even if it allowed him to draw two cards." Sora stated while licking his lollipop. "Is he trying to lure Yuya into attacking?"

"No matter what his intent is, leaving himself wide open takes a lot of courage." Gongenzaka supplied from the side. "I, the man Gongenzaka, approve of such a manly attitude!"

"Of course you would…" Yuzu said with a sigh.

"Then, it's my turn! Draw!"

After drawing his next card, Yuya turned to the audience.

"Ladies and Gentlemen! Today, for your entertainment only, we have prepared a spectacular performance that will leave you with your mouths hanging open! So, without any further ado, let's get to it! Using my Scale 1 Stargazer Magician and my Scale 8 Timegazer Magician, I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

Upon placing his cards on his Duel Disk, the word 'Pendulum' appeared on it, while two columns of light appeared on the field and Yuya's magicians slowly rose inside them. A large Pendulum also appeared between them.

"It's here, it's here, it's here!" Ayu remarked with apparent excitement.

"Give him the shivers, Yuya-oniichan!" Futoshi remarked while shaking his whole body.

"Go, Yuya-oniichan!" Tatsuya cheered on.

"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 2 through 7." Yuya declared. "Swing, Pendulum of my Soul! Draw an arc of light across the ether! Pendulum Summon! Appear now, my monsters!"

Following his words, the oversized Pendulum began swinging left and right, causing a large portal to appear, out of which three beams of light erupted.

"First up, returning from the Extra Deck, it's Entermate Camelump." Yuya announced. "Following up and making its grand debut, it's Entermate Silver Claw (Dark/Beast/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 1800/ DEF: 700/LV: 4/SC: 5). And finally, our main star is stepping on the stage! Appear now, dragon with wondrous and beautiful dichromatic eyes! Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (Dark/Dragon/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7/SC: 4)!"

Three monsters materialized on Yuya's field. The first one was a yellow camel with a top hat and a bow, the other was a silver-furred wolf with chains and a bow and the last one was a red bipedal dragon with differently colored eyes and two horn-like protrusions emerging from its back. At the sight of the roaring dragon, Yukio felt the same strange sensation he had when he first saw Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon. However, this dragon didn't give off the same terrifying feeling as Dark Rebellion.

"Odd-Eyes…Pendulum Dragon, huh?"

Yukio certainly didn't expect to meet a member of the Odd-Eyes family here. He had a feeling things would get very interesting real soon.

"Battle!" Yuya declared upon climbing on his dragon's back. "Entermate Silver Claw attacks you directly, Yukio! Also, this moment, its effect activates, boosting the attack of all Entermate monsters by 300 until the Battle Phase's end (Silver Claw ATK: 1800→2100, Camelump: 800→1100). Go, Silver Claw!"

"I don't think so, Yuya." Yukio stated. "I activate my Trap Card, Magician's Gateway! When I receive a direct attack, I can negate it and Special Summon one Spellcaster-type Monster from my deck with attack equal to or less than the attacking monster's!"

"Sorry to disappoint you, but that won't be happening!" Yuya declared. "Timegazer Magician's Pendulum effect activates! Once per turn, when a Trap Card targeting a Pendulum Monster on my side of the field is activated, I can negate its activation and reset it! Go, Timegazer Magician! Inverse Gearwidth!"

Following Yuya's order, a clock with its hands ticking backwards appeared on Timegazer Magician's hand. After that, a beam was shot from Timegazer, resetting the Trap.

Damn it! Yukio cursed inwardly. I completely forgot about his Magician's Pendulum effect!

"My attack resumes! Do your thing, Silver Claw!"

The wolf's claws slashed at Yukio. Although he had braced himself for searing pain, the sensation wasn't as bad as he expected.

Right, I'm not Dueling in 'that' place anymore…

Yukio – LP: 4000→1900

"Coming up, it's Entermate Camelump! Here's another direct attack!"

The camel blew out a bubble that exploded on Yukio's face, sending him tumbling back.

Yukio – LP: 1900→800

"Why isn't Yukio-senpai searching for Action Cards to counter Yuya-oniichan's attacks?" Futoshi wondered.

"Hah, have you forgotten already?" Sora commented in exasperation. "Players may hold only one Action Card in their hands. Since he picked that Action Card earlier, Yukio can't add another to his hand unless he uses that one."

"Then, if this final attack goes through, Yuya-oniichan will win!" Ayu declared enthusiastically.

"That's right." Sora nodded with a sly smile. "However, I don't think Yukio will be defeated that easily."

"And now, it's time for our main star to put the finishing touches!" Yuya declared. "Go, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! With those dual-colored eyes of yours, lay waste to all you see! Spiral Strike Burst!"

Charging forward, Odd-Eyes unleashed a stream of crimson energy from its mouth, aiming for Yukio.

"I activate my other Trap Card then!" Yukio announced. "Defense Draw! This card negates all battle damage from an attack and allows me to draw a card!"

A hazy sphere appeared around Yukio, shielding him from Odd-Eyes' blast.

"I told you so." Sora commented with a smug look as he pulled out his lollipop. "That much was within my expectations."

"However, it's still an undeniable fact that Yuya has the advantage." Yuzu pointed out. "Yukio's life points are only 800 and he has no monsters on the field."

"That means nothing." Gongenzaka supplied from the side. "A skilled Duelist can turn any situation around no matter how hopeless things seem. I, the man Gongenzaka, think that Yukio is just getting started here."

"At the Battle Phase's end, Silver Claw's effect ends, returning the attack of my Entermate monsters to normal (Silver Claw ATK: 2100→1800, Camelump ATK: 1100→800)." Yuya stated. "With this, the First Act and my turn are over."

"Then, it's my turn!" Yukio declared. "Draw!"

Upon seeing his drawn card, which was letting out a faint glow, Yukio smiled.

I had a feeling you'd show up. You're itching for a fight against that Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, huh?

An affirmative growl could be heard within Yukio's mind.

Then, let's demonstrate your strength and, to borrow the Principal's words, 'heat things up' a bit.

"You may have dominated the First Act, Yuya," Yukio stated with a confident smile, "but this Second Act belongs to me and my comrades! So, without further ado, let's get this show on the road! Using the Scale 1 Odd-Eyes Persona Dragon and the Scale 8 Odd-Eyes Mirage Dragon, I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

Just like before, the word 'Pendulum' appeared on Yukio's Duel Disk, while two pillars of light containing his dragons emerged on his left and right.

"Now I can also simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 2 through 7." Yukio declared. "Guided by destiny's hand, cross the walls of space and time and manifest a new possibility! Pendulum Summon! Appear now, my Monsters!"

From the portal formed between the pillars of light, two lights erupted and landed on the field.

"Our first arrival is Summoner Magician (Dark/Spellcaster/Pendulum/Effect/ ATK: 1600/ DEF: 1400/LV: 4/SC: 7). And then, the magnificent monster who will upstage your dragon, Yuya. Show yourself, eerie dragon with beautiful, dichromatic eyes! Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon (Dark/Dragon/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7/SC: 4)!"

Following Yukio's words, two monsters materialized, the first being a magician with priest robes holding a khakkhara, and the second being a dragon similar to Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon. However, that dragon was primarily colored gray and blue, and the armor's shape was different from Pendulum Dragon's. Following Phantom Dragon's appearance, both dragons began roaring at each other in a challenging manner.

Are they…calling out to each other?

However, the surprised gasps from the audience interrupted Yukio's thought process.

"Pendulum Summon!?" Tatsuya yelled in surprise. "Then, Yuya-oniichan isn't the only one who can use it!?"

"Oh, this just got even more interesting." Sora commented with a wide smile. "It seems we're in for one Hell of an entertainment show today!"

"Shivers~!" Futoshi yelled.

Meanwhile, Yuya looked flabbergasted at Yukio's Pendulum Summon.

"I thought Yuzu was pulling my leg when she told me about this yesterday… But it's actually true… You can also use Pendulum Summon, Yukio. How is that possible…?"

"I haven't the foggiest." Yukio said with a sigh. "I was just watching your Duel with Strong Ishijima and suddenly, several of my cards abruptly transformed, as bizarre as that sounds. However, that shouldn't matter to you right now."

"Eh?"

"Come on, Yuya!" Yukio exclaimed. "This the first ever battle between Pendulum users! History is in the making right now! As a Duelist, your soul should be quivering with excitement at this situation like mine is! And besides, isn't your aspiration to become an Entertainment Duelist? Well, this is the final word in entertainment, you know? You should make use of this unique opportunity and dazzle our audience with a spectacular show!"

Yuya seemed a bit stunned at first, but eventually grinned.

"You're right, Yukio. In that case, come at me with everything you've got! I'll take you on with my Entertainment Duel and show everyone a wondrous performance!"

"That's the spirit, Yuya!"

"I also have to admit I was a bit surprised by your monsters as well." Yuya said, pointing at Mirage Dragon, Persona Dragon and Phantom Dragon. "I wasn't expecting you to be using the Odd-Eyes archetype as well."

"Truth be told, I find them compelling due to the fact that we share a similar characteristic." Yukio said with a smile, pointing at his own dichromatic eyes. "But enough chit-chat. Let's get on with the Duel. Since it was Pendulum Summoned successfully, Summoner Magician's effect activates, allowing me to add one Ritual Monster or Ritual Spell Card from my Deck or Graveyard to my hand. I choose Karma Manifestation from my Deck. Then, I summon Replication Magician (Dark/Spellcaster/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 100/DEF: 100/LV: 1/SC: 3) in attack mode."

A figure resembling a human-shaped slime holding a staff with a mirror on its tip appeared on Yukio's field.

"Next, I activate Replication Magician's effect. Since it was summoned successfully, I can select one Pendulum Monster on my side of the field and have this card's name, type, attribute and level become the same as that monster's. The one I choose is—Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon!"

Replication Magician's body began expanding and changing its shape, eventually assuming the form of Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon, albeit with a darker shade.

"There are two Level 7 monsters on the field now…" Yuzu murmured as he recalled Yukio's Duel with Sawatari. "Don't tell me…he's going to Xyz Summon again?"

"While I could go for an Xyz Summon, let's try something different, shall we?" Yukio said as if responding to Yuzu's question. "I activate the Spell Card Fusion from my hand!"

This prompted another round of shocked responses.

"Fusion!?" Gongenzaka shouted. "He can use Fusion as well!? Most Duelists struggle to master one form of special summoning and he already knows four out of the now five?"

"Did Yuya-oniichan perhaps pick a fight with an extraordinary Duelist?" Ayu wondered.

"With this card, I can fuse two monsters on my side of the field to call forth an even more powerful one." Yukio explained. "The ones I choose are Summoner Magician and Replication Magician, who's treated as Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon!"

The two monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex as Yukio clasped his hands in front of him and chanted.

"Arcane master of rituals, become one with the eerie dragon to call forth a new power! Fusion Summon! Appear now, Level 7! The unstoppable dragon who carries the raging winds within its body, Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon (Wind/Dragon/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 2500/DEF: 3000/LV: 7)!"

A new dragon in green-colored armor appeared on the field, conjuring a sandstorm due to the winds surrounding it.

"Hoh, so this is Yukio's Fusion Summon?" Sora commented with a smirk. "Not half-bad if I say so myself."

"Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon…" Yuya muttered with an awed look. "An evolved form of Odd-Eyes…"

"You don't have the leisure to stand there gaping, Yuya." Yukio warned him as he climbed on Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon's back. "I activate the effect of Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon! When this card is summoned successfully, I can target one of your attack position monsters and return it back to your hand!"

"Say what!?" Yuya cried out in surprise.

"The one I choose is—Entermate Silver Claw!" Yukio announced. "Go, Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon! Blow away Yuya's monster!"

At its master's command, the dragon generated a powerful gust that engulfed the retreating Silver Claw, causing it to vanish from the field.

"Why did he choose Silver Claw?" Tatsuya wondered. "Wouldn't Odd-Eyes be more preferable since both of Yukio-senpai's monsters have the same attack as it and will therefore take each other out in battle?"

"That's true." Gongenzaka answered. "However, this must certainly be part of his strategy. Let's see how this plays out."

"Next up, I activate the Action Spell Desert Wind that I picked up earlier." Yukio stated. "Thanks to it, the first time one of my monsters would destroy one of yours, your monster will be shuffled back into the Deck instead after damage calculation."

"Ah, so that's why Yukio-senpai didn't send Odd-Eyes back to the hand!" Futoshi said in apparent excitement. "He plans to have Phantom Dragon and Pendulum Dragon destroy each other, but while Phantom Dragon will go to the Extra Deck, Pendulum Dragon will return to the Deck!"

"I see!" Ayu commented from the side. "That makes sense!"

"Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon will attack Entermate Camelump!"

Yukio suddenly announced so, contrary to everyone's expectations.

"Ehhhhh!?" Futoshi cried out. "Why is Vortex Dragon the one attacking and why is it aiming for Camelump!? I don't understand what's going on!"

"Go, Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon!" Yukio ordered his monster. "Whirlwind of Ruin!"

"I activate my Trap Card, Entertainment Flash!" Yuya declared. "If I control an "Entermate" Monster, I can switch all your attack position monsters to defense mode!"

"That won't be enough to stop my dragon, Yuya! Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon's effect activates! Once per turn, when a Spell, Trap or monster effect is activated, I can shuffle one face-up Pendulum Monster from the Extra Deck back to my Deck in order to negate its activation and destroy it!"

"What did you say!?" Yuya seemed astonished. "To think it had such an effect!"

"I choose to shuffle Replication Magician back into the Deck so your Trap is destroyed!" Yukio declared. "Overpowering Gale!"

Small twisters were generated at the tips of Vortex Dragon's wing panels and shot towards the Trap, destroying it.

"My attack now resumes unhindered. Blow that camel away, Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon!"

A large whirlwind erupted from Vortex Dragon's maw, destroying Camelump and several houses in its path.

Yuya – LP: 4000→2300

"Since Camelump was sent back to the Deck instead of being destroyed due to the effect of Desert Wind, its effect won't apply." Yukio explained as he jumped from his dragon and landed on a rooftop, picking up another Action Card. "Fufu, that's just what I need. I activate the Action Magic Suppression Shot. With this, your Odd-Eyes' attack will be reduced by 700 until the End Phase (Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon ATK: 2500→1800)."

"Odd-Eyes!" Yuya called to his monster in concern.

"Now then, time to decide who the superior Odd-Eyes is!" Yukio said with evident fighting spirit in his words. "Go, Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon! Attack Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! Phantom Spiral Flame!"

A wave of greyish blue flames shot out of Phantom Dragon's maw. In response, Pendulum Dragon also unleashed a blast of crimson energy, with the two attacks clashing in the middle. However, Phantom Dragon's blast slowly overpowered Pendulum Dragon's own attack, approaching the red-colored dragon at an alarmingly fast rate.

"Damn!" Yuya cursed as he began running. "I need an Action Card quick!"

He spotted one lying in the debris pile created from Vortex Dragon's earlier attack and made a mad dash for it. However—

"I don't think so, Yuya!"

—a sudden wind blast blew Yuya backwards. Gazing upwards, he noticed Vortex Dragon standing in front of him, with Yukio having picked up the Action Card he was aiming for as he stood underneath his monster.

"Tsk, tsk, Yuya." Yukio wagged his finger in front of his downed opponent. "It's a basic strategy in Action Duels for the player who has more monsters to run interference with a monster which has already battled in order to prevent their opponent from claiming Action Cards. You shouldn't have tried to aim for an Action Card so far away from your position. And now, your dragon will pay the price for that rashness! Destroy his monster, Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon!"

As if being strengthened by its master's call, Phantom Dragon increased its output, blasting through Pendulum Dragon and destroying it.

Yuya – LP: 2300→1600

"And now, for the finishing move!" Yukio announced. "Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon's effect activates! When it destroys an opponent's Level 5 or higher monster and inflicts battle damage to the opponent as a result, I can inflict damage to my opponent equal to the attack of the monsters in my Pendulum Zones!"

"So that's why he saved Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon's attack for last!" Gongenzaka said. "He was aiming for the effect damage he would inflict by destroying the Level 7 Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"

"So how much damage are we talking about?" Futoshi asked in confusion. "I'm kind of lost here…"

"Both Odd-Eyes Mirage Dragon and Odd-Eyes Persona Dragon's attack is 1200, the sum of which is 2400." Tatsuya calculated. "That means Yuya-oniichan will take 2400 points of damage. If that happens—"

"—then Yuya will lose!" Yuzu cried out with evident worry.

"Go, Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon!" Yukio ordered his dragon as streams of energy flowed from the Pendulum Zones into its back, forming a crimson sphere of energy. "It's time for the curtain call! Atomic Force!"

A crimson beam was shot from Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon, aiming for Yuya.

"Not yet!" Yuya shouted. "I activate my Trap Card, Entertainment Resurrection – Reborn Force! If an "Entermate" Monster under my control left the field this turn, I can negate one instance of effect damage, end the Battle Phase and inflict the same amount of damage to you!"

"A sudden reversal!" Gongenzaka yelled. "Now Yukio is the one who's in danger of losing!"

"As if I would be taken out by my own Monster's effect!" Yukio shouted. "I activate the Action Spell Substitution! This allows me to destroy one Spell or Trap Card on my side of the field and set another card of the same type from my Deck! I destroy my face-down Trap, Magician's Gateway, in order to set the Trap Card Damage Eraser and activate it! Thanks to its effect, if I would take effect damage this turn, I gain the same amount of life points instead!"

Yukio – LP: 800→3200

"Phew, bullet dodged…" Yukio remarked with a relieved sigh. "That was closer than I would like." He then turned to Yuya. "Substitution has one final effect, namely allowing you to draw a card. I'll end my turn with this."

"Then, it's my turn!" Yuya declared. "Draw!"

After briefly looking at his cards, Yuya smiled.

"What is it?" Yukio asked. "Did you have a good draw? Is that why you're grinning like that?"

"That too, but I'm mostly smiling because, right now, I'm having a lot of fun." Yuya stated. "It's as you said, Yukio. This Duel between the only two Pendulum users in the world where each of us is trading blows evenly with one another is making me feel super excited! This truly is the epitome of the Entertainment Duel I'm aiming for. Don't you feel the same way?"

"That goes without saying." Yukio responded while also smiling. "However, unless you can somehow turn this unfavorable situation around, we won't be able to enjoy ourselves for much longer."

"Don't worry about it, Yukio." Yuya stated confidently. "This show of ours is far from over! First, it's time for yet another wondrous Pendulum Summon! Come, my monsters!"

As the oversized Pendulum swung once more, three beams of light emerged from the portal and descended on the field.

"From my hand, we have Entermate Silver Claw and Entermate Lizardraw (Earth/Reptile/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 1200/DEF: 600/LV: 3/SC: 6). And finally, reviving from my Extra Deck to take the stage once more, it's the magnificent dragon with dichromatic eyes, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"

Silver Claw and Pendulum Dragon appeared once more, accompanied by an orange, bipedal lizard dressed in a suit.

"Furthermore, I activate the Spell Card Entermate Trapeze Act." Yuya stated. "With this card's effect, I can return all cards placed in my Pendulum Zones back to the Deck and place an equal number of "Entermate" monsters from my Deck in their place."

"I don't know what you're planning, but have you forgotten about Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon's effect?" Yukio questioned Yuya. "By returning one face-up Pendulum Monster from my Extra Deck back to the Deck, I can negate the activation of your Spell Card."

"Don't worry, I haven't forgotten about it." Yuya responded with a smile. "When there is an "Entermate" Monster on my side of the field, this card's activation and its effects cannot be negated! And now everyone, it's time for a thrilling acrobatic act!"

Following Yuya's announcement, two trapezes appeared out of nowhere, with Yuya's Stargazer and Timegazer Magicians grabbing onto them and swinging gracefully across the sky. Although Yukio wasn't much of a circus fan, he couldn't help but admit that this display was a bit impressive. The younger audience was more receptive to this performance as they cheered on.

Upon reaching the end of their arc, the two magicians disappeared, only to be replaced by two new monsters, a yellow and red snake with a glove on its tail and a mole in a cheerleader's outfit. Using the trapezes, the monsters soared in the air and entered the Pendulum Zones, taking the place of Stargazer and Timegazer.

"Everyone, let's give a warm welcome to the Scale 3 Entermate Partnaga and the Scale 5 Entermate Cheermole! With these two monsters, I reset my Pendulum Scale!"

From a superficial point of view, this seemed like an odd move. Replacing a Scale that allowed Yuya to summon monsters with Levels 2 through 7 with a Scale that enabled him to only summon Level 4 monsters would severely limit his options. In that case, Yukio was certain Yuya was probably depending on their Pendulum Effects to turn the situation around.

"Now, the Pendulum Effects of my monsters take effect!" Yuya stated, confirming Yukio's hypothesis. "While Entermate Partnaga is set on the Pendulum Zone, all monsters I control gain 300 attack for each "Entermate" Monster on the field. Since I control two, Partnaga's effect gives my monsters a 600 attack boost. And Entermate Cheermole increases the attack of all my Pendulum Monsters by 400, meaning all my monsters gain a grand total of 1000 extra attack!"

(Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon ATK: 2500→3500, Entermate Silver Claw ATK: 1800→2800, Entermate Lizardraw ATK: 1200→2200)

"Well played, Yuya." Yukio honestly congratulated his opponent. "Well played indeed. Since the Pendulum Effects of the cards in your Pendulum Zones are passive, Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon can't negate them."

"Heh, thanks." Yuya said with a smile as he jumped on his dragon's back again. "However, it's too soon to be impressed. Battle! Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon attacks Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon! Spiral Strike Burst!"

Another crimson tide of energy was shot from Pendulum Dragon's maw, striking Vortex Dragon head-on.

"This moment, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon's effect activates!" Yuya announced. "When it battles a Level 5 or higher Monster, the battle damage is doubled! Go, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! Reaction Force!"

The orbs on Pendulum Dragon's back appendages lit up while the blast's power was enhanced, obliterating Vortex Dragon with a thunderous explosion that further ravaged the surrounding houses and sent Yukio flying.

Yukio – LP: 3200→1200

"Next up, Entermate Silver Claw will attack your Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon!" Yuya declared. "And, as I'm sure you remember, when Silver Claw declares an attack, all "Entermate" monsters on my side of the field gain an extra 300 attack (Silver Claw ATK: 2800→3100, Lizardraw ATK: 2200→2500). Take that dragon down, Silver Claw!"

"Odd-Eyes Mirage Dragon's Pendulum Effect activates!" Yukio abruptly stated. "When a Pendulum Monster on my side of the field battles, I can negate its destruction and reduce battle damage to zero! Mirage Barrier!"

At Yukio's call, a transparent shield enveloped Phantom Dragon, shielding it from Silver Claw's attack.

"In that case, Entermate Lizardraw attacks Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon!" Yuya said as he picked up an Action Card. "I also activate the Action Spell Power Shot, increasing my monster's attack by 600 (Lizardraw ATK: 2500→3100) until the Battle Phase's end! Go, Lizardraw!"

"Sorry to disappoint you, Yuya, but Mirage Dragon can activate its effect a number of times equal to the number of "Odd-Eyes" Monsters in my Pendulum Zones each turn, meaning it can use it again! Mirage Barrier!"

Once more, the transparent shield protected Phantom Dragon, preventing its destruction.

"But with this, you've used up Mirage Dragon's effect for this turn." Yuya pointed out.

"That's true, but you've also used up all your attacks for this Battle Phase." Yukio pointed out in return. "As such, my Phantom Dragon is safe."

"Don't bet on it, Yukio." Yuya grinned as he snatched another Action Card from the debris of a house. "I activate the Action Spell Extra Shot! If all monsters on my side of the field have battled during the Battle Phase and my opponent still controls a monster, I can choose one of my monsters and have it attack again! The one I choose is, of course, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"

"Nice, Yuya-oniichan!" Tatsuya cheered. "If this goes through, Yukio-senpai will take 2000 damage due to Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon's effect and you'll win!"

"Go, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!" Yuya shouted. "With those dual-colored eyes of yours, lay waste to all you see! Spiral Strike Burst!"

As the blast shot from Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon headed towards Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon, Yukio smirked.

"You're going to have to try a bit harder than that, Yuya! Odd-Eyes Persona Dragon's Pendulum Effect activates! During either player's turn, I can swap this card in my Pendulum Zone with a Pendulum Monster on the field and Special Summon it! Come forth, Odd-Eyes Persona Dragon (Dark/Dragon/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 1200/DEF: 2400/LV: 5/SC: 1) in defense mode!"

As Phantom Dragon was placed on the Pendulum Zone, a smaller red dragon appeared in its place.

"So you dodged it, huh…?" Yuya muttered. "In that case, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, attack Yukio's Odd-Eyes Persona Dragon!"

Yuya's dragon shot yet another crimson colored stream, easily vanquishing Persona Dragon.

"With this, I end my turn and my Entermates' attack returns to normal (Silver Claw ATK: 3100→2800, Lizardraw ATK: 3100→2200)." Yuya announced. Then he chuckled. "You really are a skilled Duelist, Yukio. In fact, you might be the strongest opponent I've faced so far."

"My, to be rated even higher than the former Champion, I can only say that I'm honored." Yukio responded with a smile. "However, you might want to save the admiration for after I've beaten you, Yuya."

"Beat me, you say?" Yuya showed a surprised expression at this declaration. "You have no monsters on your field, you can only Pendulum Summon Persona Dragon with your current Scale and you only have Karma Manifestation in your hand. How exactly do you plan to defeat me with just that?"

"It's true that the current situation is unfavorable for me." Yukio admitted. "However, what's so exciting about a Duel is that any situation can be overturned with a single draw! My turn! Draw!"

Come on, my Deck. Yukio inwardly prayed as he was about to draw his next card. I know you have something in there that can help me turn the tide of this Duel!

Yukio drew his card with a sharp move—and grinned upon seeing what he had drawn. It looked like Lady Luck hadn't abandoned him just yet.

"I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Pendulum Shift." Yukio announced. "This card allows me to target a card placed in either player's Pendulum Zone, declare a Pendulum Scale from one to ten and make the targeted card's Scale equal to the declared number's until the End Phase. The one I choose is Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon and I will make its Scale 1!"

"So Yukio-senpai can now Pendulum Summon monsters with Levels 2 through 7 simultaneously." Ayu commented with a frown. "But how is that going to change things?"

"Just watch." Sora responded while observing the Duel intently. "One way or the other, everything will be decided on this turn."

"With my current Pendulum Scale, I will Pendulum Summon from my Extra Deck Odd-Eyes Persona Dragon and Summoner Magician." The previously destroyed monsters emerged from the portal and returned to the field. "And since he was Pendulum Summoned successfully, Summoner Magician's effect activates, allowing me to add Chaos Karma Ritual Dragon from my Deck to my hand."

"…Here it comes." Yuzu muttered. "Yukio's ace monster."

"Now I activate the Ritual Spell Card Karma Manifestation!" Yukio declared as a stone altar surrounded by three dragon statues appeared on the field. "With it, I can Ritual Summon a "Ritual Dragon" monster from my hand by offering the appropriate tribute. I tribute the Level 5 Persona Dragon and Level 4 Summoner Magician in order to call forth my Level 8 Ritual Monster!"

Following Yukio's words, the two monsters turned into light and were absorbed by the right-most statue, which let out a blinding glow.

"Ruthless dragon who dwells within the threads of destiny!" Yukio chanted. "With the ancient ritual, be revived in this battlefield and eliminate all those who defy you! Ritual Summon! Appear now, Level 8! Chaos Karma Ritual Dragon (ATK: 2800/DEF: 2000)!"

The blue-colored dragon with silver wings appeared on the field in all its majesty with a resounding roar, startling everyone present.

"Whoa, now that's one impressive dragon!" Tatsuya commented in astonishment. "Even Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon pales in comparison to it."

"I'm getting the shivers just by looking at it~!" Futoshi stated as his body shook like a leaf.

"Even I, the man Gongenzaka, would hesitate to confront such a beast head-on." Gongenzaka said. "If it's as powerful as it looks, Yuya is in trouble."

"Chaos Karma Ritual Dragon, huh…?" Sora muttered with a sly smile. "You certainly are an interesting person, Yukio…"

"Yuya…" Yuzu crossed her hands as if praying. "Be careful…"

At that moment, Odd-Eyes began roaring as well, as if responding to Chaos Karma. However, unlike the earlier exchange between the two Odd-Eyes monsters, Yukio felt a mutual hatred emanating from the two dragons. Were they rivals or something? …No matter, this wasn't the time to psychoanalyze his dragon. After all, he had a Duel to win.

"Now, the finale!" Yukio declared while pointing at Yuya. "Chaos Karma Ritual Dragon's effect activates! Once per turn, I can target one Level 5 or higher monster you control and destroy it! Then, half its attack or defense, whichever is higher, is inflicted to you as damage!"

"Say what!?" Yuya cried out in alarm. "The only monster which can be targeted by Chaos Karma's effect is Odd-Eyes! If I take half its current attack as damage—"

"—you'll lose." Yukio finished Yuya's sentence. "Do it, Chaos Karma! Lead Odd-Eyes to its final destination! Atropos Slash!"

Chaos Karma's claws elongated, piercing through Odd-Eyes and heading straight for Yuya, who was running towards the edge of town. The energy claws eventually caught up with him, resulting in a thunderous explosion. However—

Yuya – LP: 1600→100

—when the dust cleared, Yuya still had life points remaining, much to everyone's surprise.

"That's strange." Yukio seemed perplexed. "Since Odd-Eyes' attack was 3500, you should have taken 1750 damage and lost. Don't tell me…an Action Card?"

"That's right." Yuya responded. "Just before your Monster's effect was applied, I activated the Action Spell Lead Shot, reducing Odd-Eyes' attack by 500 (Odd-Eyes ATK: 3500→3000). Therefore, when my Odd-Eyes was destroyed, I took 1500 damage instead."

"Nice thinking." Yukio praised Yuya. "However, I still have my monster's attack! Battle! Chaos Karma Ritual Dragon, attack Entermate Lizardraw! Samsara Breath!"

Chaos Karma unleashed a torrent of azure flames from its maw, aiming for Lizardraw. In response, Yuya grabbed another Action Card while riding on Entermate Silver Claw.

"Alright, we'll settle it with this!" Yuya shouted. "I activate the Action Spell Desperate Charge! Its effect increases Lizardraw's attack by 1000 (Lizardraw ATK: 2200→3200) for this battle only, but will destroy it during the Battle Phase's end! However, this makes it stronger than Chaos Karma now!"

"Not if I have anything to say about it!" Yukio declared. "Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon's Pendulum Effect activates! Once per turn, when a monster on my side of the field battles, I can have it gain attack equal to that of another monster in my Pendulum Zone until the Battle Phase's end! I choose to add Odd-Eyes Mirage Dragon's attack to Chaos Karma! Spirit Overcharge!"

In response to Yukio's command, an energy aura emitted from Mirage Dragon and surrounded Chaos Karma, increasing its attack (Chaos Karma ATK: 2800→4000).

"Are you kidding me!?" Yuya cried out. "4000 attack!?"

"Now my monster is once again stronger than yours, Yuya!" Yukio pointed out. "And even though battle damage is halved for battles involving Chaos Karma due to Phantom Dragon's effect, it's more than enough to finish this Duel!"

Having received the reinforcement from Phantom Dragon's effect, Chaos Karma increased the output of its flames, blasting Lizardraw and sending Yuya flying due to the ensuing explosion.

Yuya – LP: 100→0

Yukio: WIN

Following the conclusion of the Duel, the surroundings returned to normal as the Action Field disappeared, with the rest of the on-lookers joining the two Duelists. The first one was Yuzu, who immediately rushed to Yuya's side with a concerned look.

"Are you alright, Yuya?" Yuzu spoke with a worried tone as she helped him to his feet. "Were you hurt anywhere?"

"Relax, Yuzu. I'm alright, just a little shaken."

Upon seeing that somewhat intimate scene, Yukio placed his fist in his palm with a look or realization on his face.

"Ah! Are you two perhaps an item? You seem awfully close for mere friends."

"I know, right?" Sora supplied from the side. "That's what I thought as well when I first met them."

Needless to say, Yuzu turned red as a tomato at these words.

"A-An item, you s-say?" She said with a stutter. "No, no, our relationship is nothing like t-that…"

Yeah, for some reason, I'm not convinced.

"Of course we're not together." Yuya responded with a perfectly even tone. "Who'd want to date a crude, strong girl like her who thinks violence is the answer to everything?"

Oh boy. Yukio sighed inwardly. This isn't going to end well for Yuya.

True to Yukio's prediction, Yuya's thoughtless remark earned him a hard smack from a harisen which appeared on Yuzu's hands out of nowhere, sending him crashing on the opposing wall hard and opening a Yuya-sized hole on it.

"Geeez!" Yuzu said with a red face, this time from anger. "You really are the worst, Yuya!"

"…I rest…my case…"

Yuya's half-dead voice was heard from the other side of the wall. Meanwhile, Yukio made a mental note to never anger Yuzu, lest he suffer the same fate as Yuya. Smashing through brick walls was something he'd rather avoid.

"That was a spectacular Duel." Gongenzaka expressed his opinion as he approached Yukio. "I, the man Gongenzaka, felt my soul burning from this titanic clash between men! I would also like to request a Duel with you, Yukio!"

"Hey, no fair!" Sora complained. "I want to Duel Yukio as well! It's very rare to come across a Duelist who can use all sorts of summoning methods!"

"OK, fellows, time up." Yukio went between Sora and Gongenzaka, who were glaring at each other. "I'm sorry to say that we have closed shop for today. Any and all Duels will have to wait until tomorrow."

"Boooo!" Sora said with a pout. "That's no fun! I want to Duel now!"

"Think of it as character building, Sora." Yukio said with a smile as he patted the cyan-haired boy's head. "Learning to have patience is important."

"In any case, that was an amazing Duel full of surprises, Yukio." Yuya said with a grin. "I admit that I was shocked when you Fusion Summoned that Vortex Dragon. To think that you can use Pendulum, Ritual, Xyz and Fusion, it makes me wonder… Can you Synchro Summon too?"

"Sure can!" Yukio said while making a victory sigh. "I'm well-versed in all summoning methods."

"Seriously!?" Tatsuya asked in evident astonishment. "That's unreal, Yukio-senpai!"

"Yukiooooo!" Shuzo yelled as he ran inside the arena and grabbed the youth's hands. "That Duel was hot-blooded to the extreme! Both you and Yuya were burning like a raging inferno! Please, you have to join You Show Duel School! We need talent like yours! I can tell you're a natural-born entertainer!"

"First off, you're too close!" Yukio yelled, pushing Shuzo back. "Second, I already told you I don't intend to join You Show from the start."

"But why!?" Shuzo comically dropped to his knees. "Where will you find a better school!?"

Anywhere else in the world maybe?

Yukio thought so half-jokingly. While the students and the Principal seemed pretty OK people, the facilities left much to be desired.

"Shuzo-san, I only came to this city in order to participate in the Championship." Yukio explained. "When it's over, I'll leave. That's the major reason why I'm not joining."

Well, that and the fact that I don't really believe in Entertainment Duels...

"If that's the case, then it can't be helped." Shuzo said as he picked himself up. "However, I was wondering if you could at least do us a favor while you're here."

"…Let's hear it first." Yukio said a bit reluctantly.

"Well…since you're an expert in all forms of summoning, I was wondering if you could give everyone a special lecture about them tomorrow." Shuzo asked Yukio. "While it's shameful to admit it, I don't know much about the various summoning methods apart from the basic Advance Summon. Please, won't you do it for these kids' sake?"

Although Yukio felt this was a hassle and thought about denying, all it took was one look at Tatsuya, Futoshi and Ayu's begging faces for his resolve to crumble like a house of cards. Yukio always had a soft spot for young children and couldn't refuse them anything.

"Haaaa…" Yukio let out a deep sigh. "Alright, I guess one lesson on the various summoning methods isn't that much to ask."

"Really? You'll do it?" Shuzo said with an excited tone as the younger trio cheered enthusiastically. "Thank you very much, Yukio! I knew you were a good fellow from the start!"

"Yeah, me and my bleeding heart…"

Yuuko muttered so in a hushed tone. After exchanging a few more pleasantries with the rest of You Show's members, Yukio headed back to the hotel in order to get ready for tomorrow's 'lesson'. Since he hadn't taught anything to anyone before, this could prove to be a greater challenge than anticipated so he had to be prepared.

At that moment, Yukio also realized that, amidst all the excitement, the matter about him and Yuya's mysterious doppelganger had completely slipped from his mind. He had promised to explain things to Yuya yesterday, but that obviously wouldn't be happening today.

"Oh well." Yukio said out loud. "I'm sure it can wait until tomorrow. What's the worst that could happen by then?"


"Are our preparations complete, Nakajima?"

Himika asked her son's right-hand man.

"I have taken care of what you asked of me." Nakajima replied. "The LDS students who were involved in the incident have been bribed in order to, ah, bend the truth a bit. I have also contacted the top Junior Youth-class students from LDS' three summoning courses as per your request."

"Then the stage is set." Himika remarked with a sinister smile. "By this time tomorrow, both You Show Duel School and Pendulum Summon—will be the property of our Leo Corporation!"


Card Corner

Odd-Eyes Persona Dragon

ATK: 1200, DEF: 2400, LV: 5, SC: 1

Dark/Dragon/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: During either player's turn, you can swap this card in your Pendulum Zone with 1 other Pendulum Monster on your field and special summon it.

Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can target one special summoned monster on the field; negate its effects until the End Phase.

Odd-Eyes Mirage Dragon

ATK: 1200, DEF: 600, LV: 3, SC: 8

Dark/Dragon/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: During either player's turn, when Pendulum Monsters under your control battle, you can negate their destruction in battle and reduce the battle damage to zero. This effect can be activated a number of times equal to the number of "Odd-Eyes" Monsters in your Pendulum Zones each turn.

Monster Effect: Once per turn, if this face-up card is targeted for an attack, you can switch the attack to another Pendulum Monster on your side of the field.

Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon

ATK: 2500, DEF: 2000, LV: 7, SC: 4

Dark/Dragon/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: Once per turn, when a monster on your side of the field battles, you can have that monster gain ATK equal to the ATK of another monster in your Pendulum Zone until the Battle Phase's end, but halve all battle damage your opponent takes from battles involving that monster.

Monster Effect: If this Pendulum Summoned monster has inflicted battle damage to your opponent by destroying an opponent's Level 5 or higher monster, you can inflict damage to them equal to the ATK of the cards in your Pendulum Zone.

Summoner Magician

ATK: 1600, DEF: 1200, LV: 4, SC: 7

Dark/Spellcaster/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: Once per turn, you can send 1 Ritual Spell Card from your Deck to the Graveyard; special summon the appropriate Ritual Monster from your hand by offering the appropriate tributes. This special summon is treated as a Ritual Summon.

Monster Effect: If this card is Pendulum Summoned successfully, add 1 Ritual Spell Card or Ritual Monster from your Deck or Graveyard to your hand.

Replication Magician

ATK: 100, DEF: 100, LV: 1, SC: 3

Dark/Spellcaster/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: Once per turn, you can send 1 Pendulum Monster from your Deck to the Graveyard, then select 1 Pendulum Monster on your side of the field; until the End Phase, its name, type, attribute and level become the same as the sent monster's.

Monster Effect: If this card is summoned successfully, you can select 1 other Pendulum Monster on your side of the field; this card's name, level, type and attribute become the same as that monster's.

Accursed Wand

Equip Spell card

Equip this card only to a Spellcaster-type Monster on the field. It gains 800 ATK, but banish it if it's destroyed. You can banish both this card and the equipped monster if you control it; draw two cards.

Desert Wind

Action Spell

The first Monster on the opponent's side of the field which would be destroyed as a result of battle is shuffled back into the Deck after damage calculation instead.

Suppression Shot

Action Spell

Reduce the ATK of one Monster on the field by 700 points until the Battle Phase's end.

Substitution

Action Spell

Destroy one Spell or Trap Card on your side of the field and set another card of the same type to your field from your Deck. The card can be activated immediately after you set it if possible. Your opponent then draws a card.

Entermate Trapeze Act

Normal Spell Card

Return as many cards as possible from your Pendulum Zones back into your Deck, then place an equal amount of "Entermate" Monsters from your Deck into your Pendulum Zones. If you control an "Entermate" Monster, the activation of this card and its effects cannot be negated by your opponent's card effects.

Power Shot

Action Spell

Increase a Monster's ATK by 600 until the Battle Phase's end.

Extra Shot

Action Spell

If all Monsters on your side of the field have battled while your opponent still has Monsters remaining, target 1 Monster on your side of the field; it can attack once more in this turn's Battle Phase.

Lead Shot

Action Spell

Reduce the ATK of one Monster on the field by 500 until the Battle Phase's end.

Desperate Charge

Action Spell

Increase the ATK of one Monster on the field by 1000 for one battle only, but destroy it at the end of the Battle Phase.

Magician's Gateway

Normal Trap Card

When you receive a direct attack, you can activate this card's effect by targeting the attacking monster; negate the attack, then special summon a Spellcaster-type monster from your deck with ATK lower than the attacking monster's.

And with that, Chapter 2 comes to an end. Since Yukio has Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon, I decided to add both Mirage Dragon and Persona Dragon with altered effects to his Deck. Apart from Vortex Dragon, expect Meteorburst Dragon and Absolute Dragon to make an appearance in the future as well. It's too bad these fellows didn't appear in the anime, especially Vortex Dragon, since they have some pretty cool effects.

Hopefully, Chapter 3 will take around the same time to come out. Until then, please read and review.

Until next time!