YuYuGiDigiMoon: Wrath of Pharaohmon Redux

by Kanius

Tamers, YuGiOh, Sailor Moon, YuYu Hakusho, and Frontier crossover. The refreshed version of YuYuGiDigiMoon's first season. Five groups of heroes unite to fight a common enemy: the evil Pharaohmon. It all begins again with new exclusive material! Now an official anniversary project to celebrate 10 years of YuYuGiDigiMoon.

21. Duskmon Returns! Jeri vs Kaiba!

A/N: In this chapter, the fourth matches in the dual tournaments are covered. Jeri vs. Seto Kaiba in the Duel Monsters tournament and Wolfmon/Loweemon/Duskmon/Piedmon the the battle royal match!

Jeri has a chance to score a big upset (if not the biggest one) while Kouichi is reunited with the Corrupt Warrior of Darkness Duskmon. That plus more shenanigans forthcoming in the Shadow Tournament arc!

Enjoy.

xxxxx

Chapter 21

A Return from the Darkness, Duskmon Returns! The Ambitious Duelists, Jeri vs. Kaiba!

xxxxx

Phoenix Arena/2:30 PM

"Ladies and gentlemon! We're ready to proceed with fourth matches in both the Duel Monsters and battle royal tournaments! In our next duel, Jeri Katou will duel against Seto Kaiba! The fourth battle royal will feature Loweemon, Duskmon, Wolfmon, and Piedmon! All announced participants report to the arena stage!"

As she walked near the entrance way, Jeri Katou paused and readied her duel deck. Her Tamer friends, Felinismon, Yami Yugi, and Joey followed her down.

"You ready to duel, kiddo?" Felinismon asked her.

"Just a little nervous."

"Don't let Kaiba scare ya, Jeri," Joey reassured her.

"Jeri, good luck," Yami Yugi said. "Kaiba is a duelist who plays to win. I advise you not get intimidated quickly. Just remember everything we taught you."

"After that slap ya gave him, I don't think that rich jerk will take you lightly," Kazu said.

Kenta cringed. "Yeah, he's probably still feeling that one."

"Give him a good duel, Jeri," Takato said to his friend. "We're behind you all the way."

Rika smirked. "Jeri, you're lucky. I wish I were the one dueling him."

"Thank you, Rika."

Himura approached Jeri. "Jeri, good luck." He said giving her a genuine smile.

"Thanks, Himura."

"Oh, Jeri, here I wanted to give you this," Takato walked over to hand her a card.

Taking the card, Jeri was befuddled with what she received. "But, this isn't a Duel Monsters card. I can't use this in the duel."

"I know, but I figure Felinismon or one of our Digimon might need it for the upcoming matches."

Jeri heard her name being called again. "We'll talk about this later, Takato. I've got a match, guys! Wish me luck!" With that, she waved to the group and headed down the entrance way while her friends saw her off. Himura raced ahead and caught up with Jeri.

"Himura? What is it?"

She watched Himura unfasten a golden bracelet from his left wrist.

"I wanted you to have this," he said putting the bracelet around Jeri's right wrist.

"What is this?" She looked over the bracelet confused. "A bracelet? I can't take it."

"It's for good luck. I wore this during my times of depression after Kotori's death. It's a symbol of our friendship, but since we're now friends... I'd like you to have it... you can return it anytime you want."

"Himura, thank you. I'll gladly accept it."

As she looked over the bracelet with a smile, she pulled Himura into a hug and stormed off waving to him.

"Here she is! Jeri Katou!" Lillymon announced as the Tamer walked out getting cheers from the audience. "Now, her opponent! According to reports I'm receiving from records of the human world, Seto Kaiba is the president of a company called Kaiba Corp, which currently is the top gaming company in the human world. He has also developed some of the top technological gaming devices, including the dueling disks. In addition, he's a former World champion duelist with an amazing winning record. Please give it up for Seto Kaiba!"

The crowd erupted with massive cheers for one Seto Kaiba, who walked down with a focused exterior. His eyes fixated around the stadium. What took him most by surprise were the Digimon that filled the arena and interacted like normal humans. He became vastly intrigued by the Digital World he has entered.

He was beginning to seek interest in investigating the digital world a little further and compare it to his own virtual world.

"This place, the Digital World... I didn't think it would be real. I thought it was nothing more than just an urban legend spread by those Monster Makers and Yamaki's organization," Kaiba mumbled as he walked by near the duel dome where Jeri awaited him. He paid no attention to Jeri and continued focusing on the Digimon. This could just give me the inspiration I need for my project in the works.

Once Seto and Jeri stepped into the duel dome, Etemon checked the dome's controls. Seto took another gaze over Jeri and grunted in disappointment. Jeri tightened her hands while getting over the anxiety pressure.

'Mr. Kaiba... let's have a good match."

Seto did nothing to her and kept his distance from Jeri's position. The girl stepped away, slightly intimidated by his cold exterior.

"Yugi Muto and Himura have been training me well in the game. So, I hope..."

"Just don't expect me to go easy on you," Seto blatantly warned her. "Do I make myself clear?"

Jeri nodded meekly. "Clear." She turned away and mentally prepared herself for a tough duel.

Both duelists shuffled their decks and placed them in their Duel Disk slots. The dueling dome slowly ascended toward the stadium's ceiling.

"Now, bring out the competitors for the next battle royal!" Etemon announced. "First, give it up for two of the Legendary Warriors! Loweemon and Wolfmon!"

As the brothers emerged through the entrance way, the other Legendary Warriors cheered on for them. Bokomon and Neemon also cheered them on from their seats.

"Go, Kouichi! Go Kouji! We're rooting for you all the way!" Neemon cheered.

"Don't let us down, boys!" hollered Bokomon. "Oh, poor Kouichi. Not only does he have to worry about fighting his own brother, but that monster Pharaohmon has managed to revive Kouichi's darkest half, Duskmon."

"Is that a good thing or a bad thing?" asked Neemon.

"What do you think, dolt? Use your head!" Bokomon snapped Neemon's pants back and made it slap his buttocks.

"YEOW!"

Mentally prepared, Loweemon and Wolfmon entered the ring. They knew full well that their worst enemy would be in the same match.

"Kouichi..."

"Yes?"

"Whatever it takes, we must defeat Duskmon. While it's true that he was once you, but not any longer. You are Loweemon. Don't forget that."

"Right, but let's not forget," the true Warrior of Darkness said with the utmost confidence. "We have another opponent to deal with."

"Piedmon, I know," Wolfmon replied. "You leave me with him. You can take Duskmon."

"Perfect. I like how you think, Kouji. Let's pull through this and both move onto the next round."

"I'm counting on it. Whenever you need, I'll be there for you."

"Thanks, Kouji."

Etemon announced. "All right, ladies and gents! Let's now continue on and introduce their opponents! First up..."

Suddenly, the lights dimmed fast as the crowd noise died down with it. There was a mixture of confusion and anxiety as it appeared there was a power outage or sorts.

"Did somebody just cut the lights?! We're sorry about the technical difficulties! We should get it fixed!" Lillymon tried calming the alarmed crowds.

"Hey! Who turned out the lights?!" panicked Kenta.

"Pharaohmon must be planning some mind games!" Kazu cried out.

"Can it, you two! It's probably just a power outage or something," Rika chided the fanboys.

"Yeah, whatever it is, they'll fix... I hope..." Takato said.

"Look! I see somebody in the ring with Wolfmon and Loweemon!" Guilmon directed the Tamers and Duelists to the ring.

Renamon narrowed her eyes, both of which glowed when eyeing the ring. "Guilmon's right. I see the third competitor."

Right on cue, the lights immediately came back on and Duskmon was now standing in the ring center. He unfolded his arms and slowly lifted his head, surveying both opponents with familiarity. Alarmed, Wolfmon and Loweemon took on battle stances as the cunning warrior glared down them.

"Kouichi," the Warrior of Light calmed his brother down. "Relax. Don't let your emotions get the better of you."

"Just leave him to me."

An low and sinister chuckle came out of Duskmon. He looked at each brother and acknowledged them.

"It's been a while, hasn't it, Kouichi?"

"Too long. I hoped I would never see your face again."

"Pharaohmon took the portion of my spirit from the Dark Area and revived me with his dark magic. It feels good to be alive again," Duskmon said. "Now, Kouichi, I've come back to see who truly is worthy of the title of true Warrior of Darkness."

Loweemon declared. "I shall defeat you, Duskmon!"

"We'll see about that, Kouichi. This will be an interesting match."

Finally, the last participant already walked down the entrance way and entered the ring. It was Piedmon, leader of the Dark Masters faction.

"And our fourth participant! Here's Piedmon!" Etemon introduced the Dark Master.

Smiling, Piedmon eyed the three combatants. "This should prove to be interesting. These three combatants share quite a history according to what Lord Pharaohmon has informed me. I take it the warriors of darkness will settle their dispute. That just leaves you with me, warrior of light."

Wolfmon retorted. "Bring it, clown."

"Um, fellas? You might want to simmer down," Etemon pleaded to the four combatants. "Ok, Lillymon, looks like everyone is ready and set to go!"

As the four competitors took different angles of the ring, Kaiba and Jeri set their Duel Disks.

"Duelists, are you ready?"

Seto and Jeri declared. "SET!"

With that, Etemon signaled for the duel dome to transport the two duelists to their predetermined duel location.

"We have set the coordinates for Rapid Falls Heights!" Lillymon announced.

Just then, Seto and Jeri watched a bright light envelope them. Then, they watched their bodies become digitized and bring teleported to their new dueling location: Rapid Falls Heights.

"For those of you begging for full coverage of the duel, we have our big screen to provide you the action while the battle royal is in session. We should all be thankful for my colleague, Floramon, for risking her life and limb to bring you live coverage! Back to you, Etemon!"

"Thanks again, little lady! Looks like our four boys are ready to get this started and so am I! Seto Kaiba and Jeri Katou are ready! By my official authority, let the matches begin!"

(Cue Digimon Frontier OST - Kyoufu)

As the bells rang and buzzer sounded, Wolfmon started things off as he headed over to clash with Piedmon.

"Wolfmon, this will prove to be quite entertaining."

"You won't find anything amusing after I beat you!" Wolfmon declared, drawing out his laser saber and began slashing at Piedmon.

Piedmon pulled out his swords and parried Wolfmon's sabers. The sword wielders quickly circled one another waiting for one to make the next move.

"Don't forget, Wolfmon. Your brother is facing off with the true Warrior of Darkness."

Wolfmon looked over his shoulder to see Loweemon and Duskmon preparing to fight. Piedmon took advantage and tossed a dagger at him. Wolfmon turned around using his sword to counter the dagger.

Duskmon chuckled evilly as he began mind games with Loweemon, doing his best to break his old vessel down mentally.

"Kouichi, why don't you separate yourself from these petty attachments you call friends? The same goes for your worthless brother. Think about it. Before you severed ties from me, we were inseparable. Nothing could touch us. We could've easily become the most powerful entity in the Digital World. Even Cherubimon and Lucemon would've cowered in fear once we reached our full potential, but once you and I drifted apart... you squandered that chance to become invincible! But, there's always room for a second chance. Reconsider and rekindle your bond with me, Kouichi Kimura!"

"No!" protested Loweemon.

"C'mon, why would you refuse? Together, we can even surpass Pharaohmon!"

Omegamon caught on their conversation and narrowed his eyes toward Loweemon.

"What?! He intends to have Kouichi reunite with him?!" Agunimon exclaimed.

Blitzmon snapped. "No way he'll ever reunite with that crazy freak!"

"Don't worry. I know deep down that Kouichi will not fall for Duskmon's mind games," Omegamon reassured the Warriors. "Kouichi's mentally matured since then."

Be careful, Kouichi. Don't get tempted by Duskmon's games! Agunimon thought.

Back in the ring, Loweemon shrugged off Duskmon's mind games and chuckled calmly.

"Please, I'm not that gullible anymore, Duskmon. Cherubimon's long been purified and so have the Spirits of Darkness. You're nothing but a false representation of what these Spirits truly symbolize. Give up, Duskmon. You won't tempt me ever again."

"Kouichi," Duskmon growled. "You are making a big mistake."

"That's enough, Duskmon! Let's settle this one on one!" Loweemon declared as he summoned his Danzai no Yari lance. He quickly made a dash for Duskmon.

"If this is what you want..." Duskmon said, drawing out the crimson blade in his hands. He, too, quickly dashed to meet Loweemon head-on. "You chose sympathy, weakness, and light over greatness! I will silence you for good!"

Duskmon and Loweemon finally clashed while parrying each other's weapons. The eyes on Duskmon's armor produced red streams of light. Loweemon dodged the beams and blocked another with his lance.

"I will slay you and reclaim my position as the true Warrior of Darkness! Die, Kouichi!"

Quickly going airborne, Duskmon jumped 20 feet into the air and came down with his two blades aimed for Loweemon. Loweemon sidestepped his opponent and let Duskmon pierce through the ring center. Duskmon whirled around and slashed at Loweemon, who dodged the lightning fast strikes.

"Not bad, Kouichi! Nice reflexes, but Pharaohmon has imbued with powers you wouldn't ever imagine. Too bad you missed on the opportunity!"

With that, Duskmon quickly phased out from Loweemon's sight. Caught off guard, Loweemon turned around and saw Duskmon already behind him. Duskmon thrust his right-handed blade forward, but Loweemon stopped the blade with his weapon.

"Nice counter, Loweemon. I'm impressed."

"As you should be."

Duskmon sprinted to one side of the ring with Loweemon pursuing him. Both paused simultaneously and attacked one another in similar patterns. They traded attacks and parried each other's blows simultaneously; then, Loweemon found an opening and went for a straight kick, but Duskmon saw it coming. Duskmon blurred out and surprised Loweemon again.

"Damn! He's fast!"

"What are you looking at?"

Suddenly, Loweemon whirled around and paused when the tip of Duskmon's blade was pointed to his throat. Duskmon slowly stroked the blade near the jugular spot, but made sure not to slit his throat. Loweemon realized one wrong move and his neck would be sliced open.

Duskmon chuckled evilly and jerked his blade back.

Loweemon retaliated by producing an aura that pushed Duskmon back. Duskmon saw he was being thrown out of the ring. He drove his blade into the ring, barely stopping himself from flying out into the audience. The two faced one another down again and prepped for the next attack.

He's good. Duskmon's gotten faster. He certainly will be tough to beat, but, I know him too well. After all, we were once a part of each other. I know his strengths and weaknesses.

Kouichi, you're making things very difficult for us. You should've made the right choice.

(End theme)

(Cue Digimon Rumble Arena OST – Crazy Battlefield)

On the other side of the ring, Piedmon and Wolfmon engaged in heated sword play. Wolfmon was barely hanging on by deflecting the barrage of daggers Piedmon threw at him. Once Piedmon engaged him with swords, Wolfmon realized he was at a disadvantage. He charged into Piedmon and went for a spinning saber slash, but Piedmon narrowly dodged and kicked his head. This kick sent Loweemon sailing across the ring.

"Damn, he's too fast for me," Wolfmon muttered, not taking his eyes off the veteran swordsman.

"My swords are made out of chrome digizoid alloy, the strongest metal in the Digital World," Piedmon boasted. "Of course, your sabers would be inferior to mine. But, cheer up. You've at least lasted this long with me."

"Shut up, clown."

"Now, that's more like it. Let's give them a good show!"

The Warrior of Light bumrushed the Dark Master with laser saber ready to stab him. Piedmon sidestepped his advance and spun around elbowing Wolfmon's back. Wolfmon yelped and fell facefirst on the ring platform. Piedmon raised his swords and attempted to stab him while he was down. Wolfmon rolled away several times, narrowly dodging each sword. Wolfmon sprang up and kicked both feet into Piedmon's gut. Piedmon dodged and punched Wolfmon's gut, causing him to double over in pain.

"Aww, how anti-climatic. One gut blow and you're on your knees," the jovial Dark Master taunted him.

Wolfmon growled whilst sitting up. "I'm not through yet...!" He defiantly shouted and picked up his sabers.

"We're off to an awesome start with our fourth battle royal match!" Lillymon announced. "As these four gladiators continue the action, let's take you straight to the duel match! Seto Kaiba and Jeri Katou are ready to go!"

(Theme fades)

xxxxx

Digital World/Section 12-3A: Rapid Falls Heights/2:45 PM

The landscape was set miles away from the site where Gallantmon and Beelzebumon engaged in their first encounter. This was also the area where Leomon was murdered by the demon. As time has passed since then, the landscape became a more quiet vicinity with beautiful waterfalls cascading down deep pits.

Jeri and Seto surveyed their surroundings. However, they weren't alone. There was a crowd of Digimon cheering on the duelists. Floramon arrived with a Digimon holding a camera to film live coverage.

"We're here live at Rapid Falls Heights and many miles away from the domain of Zhuqiaomon. I'm sure he, too, is staying tuned for our live coverage. You have to wonder what the sovereigns do on their free time... going side track there, sorry. Seto Kaiba and Jeri Katou, are you ready? Set your duel disks!"

Both duelists activated their Duel Disks and set their life points at 8000 each.

Jeri/8000 LP

Kaiba/8000 LP

"Set and begin!"

"DUEL!" The duelists declared.

(Cue Digimon Rumble Arena OST – The Biggest Dreamer)

The duel picked five cards to start off with.

"If you don't mind, I'll start off," Jeri suggested.

"I don't care. It's not like it will make a difference," Kaiba replied.

"Ok! I draw out and activate Pot of Greed. Next, I set one card facedown in defense mode. Next, I'll set two more cards facedown. That ends my turn."

Three cards were placed on Jeri's side field. With experience on his side, Kaiba immediately assumed them to be trap and/or magic cards.

"If those are trap or magic, then your luck just ran out. I will now activate this card!"

Kaiba revealed a card that Mai Valentine is known for: Harpies Feather Duster. Used by Mai against Henry earlier, Kaiba used it to clear out Jeri's facedown cards.

"Now, I've gotten rid of your facedown cards. Neither one of them were even worth enough to save you."

"I would look again, Mr. Kaiba. You've just activated a trap card of mine! Ever heard of Magic Hammer?"

"You had that in your disposal?"

"That's right. With Magic Jammer, I have to discard one card from my hand to negate the activation of a magic card. Your Harpies Feather Duster is a magic card, right? Well, it's been negated."

"Lucky move. Now, I'll set four cards facedown and end my turn."

As she picked up a new card, the one she drew caught her attention. She promptly utilized it.

"Now, I'll activate Nobleman of Extermination. This allows me to destroy one facedown magic or trap card and remove it from play!"

"Who do you think you're talking to? I know what it does."

"Good, then I know what I must do! I'll use it to remove that card on the left!"

"Heh, nice try. You've just activated my trap! I'll use my own Magic Jammer to discard a card from my hand to negate your Nobleman of Extermination. Ah, too bad."

"If you think I'm going to go down that easily, then you're mistaken!" Jeri boldly said. "I now activate another one of my cards! Ookazi!"

"You even have Ookazi?!"

"With this card, I can lower my opponent's life points by 800! Sorry, did I just upset you?"

Kaiba/7200 LP (8000-800)

Needless to say, Kaiba was irked. "Don't celebrate too soon, brat."

"I agree. I'll save my celebrations after I beat you. Now, I'll flip summon my Skelengel!"

Jeri summoned forth her Skelengel, an angel that was invisible except for his boots, gloves, belt, and halo.

Skelengel

LIGHT/Fairy/Effect

LVL/2 ATK/900 DEF/400

"This monster also has an effect. It allows me to draw an extra card from my deck to my hand. Next, I'll set a card facedown. Now, Skelengel, attack his life points directly!"

Once Skelengel prepared to strike him, Kaiba countered. "Foolish girl. Now I'll activate this! My Mirror Force! You just sent your monster to his demise."

Jeri gasped, witnessing her Skelengel strike the mirror and vanish into a thin streak of light.

Speechless, Jeri sighed. "I'll end my turn there."

"Is the pressure getting to you?" Kaiba smirked coolly. "Consider yourself lucky since I have nothing to give on this turn."

"I'll set a card facedown and end my turn."

Kaiba placed down a new card facedown. "I put this facedown and end my turn."

Jeri picked up a card and quickly played it. "I activate another Pot of Greed."

"Another one?"

"You know what that means. That allows me to draw 2 more cards."

"Is that all? I'd like to get this over with and just wipe away the rest of your life points."

"My turn isn't done yet! Now I'll activate the Graceful Charity. I draw three cards and discard two to my graveyard. I then activate another Nobleman of Extermination! I'll use it to destroy one of your facedown cards!"

With that, Kaiba witnessed one of his facedown cards, a Torrential Tribute, instantly destroyed from the field.

"I just revealed your Torrential Tribute. Now we must remove all cards of that same name and remove them from play! Since I don't have any Torrential Tributes, I take it you have plenty in your deck?"

Kaiba removed the remaining Torrential Tributes in his deck and discarded them.

"That ends my turn, Mister Kaiba."

"Nothing to give on this turn. Your move."

"Likewise."

After a brief back and forth stalling, Kaiba put down a facedown card. Jeri placed a facedown card as well.

Once it was Kaiba's turn, he activated a monster. "Now, I summon this! Alpha the Magnet Warrior!"

Kaiba summoned a monster his rival was known to normally play. Hovering next to the former champion is an intimidating silver warrior with magnets on his head, hands, and sword.

Alpha the Magnet Warrior

EARTH/Rock

LVL/4 ATK/1400 DEF/1700

"I'll then activate a trap card: Call of the Haunted. With this card, I can take a monster card from my graveyard and special summon it in attack mode. Now, you do recall me discarding a card when I played my Magic Jammer?"

"Yes, what of it?"

"Well, it was a monster card. Come forth, Gadget Soldier!"

A silver humanoid cyborg, with gold sprockets on his back and shoulder, wielding a rocket launcher, materialized on the right side of Alpha.

Gadget Soldier

FIRE/Machine

LVL/6 ATK/1800 DEF/2000

"Alpha the Magnet Warrior, attack her life points directly!"

The magnet warrior swiftly glides over to Jeri's field and slashed her. Jeri cried out as she fell from the impact blow. She witnessed 1400 of her life points shaved off.

Jeri/6600 LP (8000-1400)

"But, my onslaught doesn't end from there! Gadget Soldier, attack more of her life points!"

Once the Gadget Soldier readily prepared for attack, Jeri retaliated and activated a card.

"You've just triggered my trap card! Magic Cylinder! With this, it can negate the attack of one of your attacking monsters and decrease your life points by an amount equal to that monster's attack points!"

"No! I lose 1800 of my life points!"

"Yeah, that's pretty much it. Too bad for you, Mr. Kaiba."

Kaiba seethed at the reality that Jeri's life points were ahead of his. However, the former champion wasn't prepared to take any more of this.

Kaiba/5400 LP (7200-1800)

"You little brat! Don't get too confident just because you're in the lead. I end my turn now!" Kaiba barked. "Make your move!"

"Rude much? You take this too seriously. Can't we just have a fun duel?"

"You're playing on my turf! I duel to win! Now, are you going to stall or make a move?"

Jeri frowned. "If you'll calm down, then I might have some cards worthwhile to play." However, she played it safe and put down a facedown card. "I end my turn."

"And you said you had cards worth while to play? What's the matter? Didn't find any cards to save your pathetic hide?"

"Well, then. Why don't you go ahead and attack me directly?" Jeri goaded him.

After drawing a new card, a smile crossed his cold and calculated features. "It if means to shut your mouth, I will. I sacrifice both my Alpha the Magnet Warrior and my Gadget Soldier to summon this to the field! Ryu-Ran!"

Replacing both warriors was a red dragon hiding inside a blue-spotted egg.

Ryu-Ran

FIRE/Dragon

LVL/7 ATK/2200 DEF/2600

"I'll send my Ryu-Ran to attack your facedown defense card!"

Once the egg dragon slashed through the facedown card, the defense monster revealed was a sad white faced nun.

The Forgiving Maiden

LIGHT/Fairy/Effect

LVL/4 ATK/850 DEF/2000

As she witnessed her Maiden's demise, she panicked until she remembered that defense monsters take away her life points.

"Luckily, my monster was in defense mode."

"Yes, you are lucky. You're lucky that you are even in the lead as far as life points are concerned. I'll end my turn from there."

"All right, I'll activate this card! Ground Collapse! With this, I can select two unoccupied monster zones on the field. With this, I select two of your monster zones, Mister Kaiba!"

"Is that all?"

"That's it. It's your turn."

"Good! Now, I'll add a card to my hand and what do you know?" Kaiba smirked coldly. "I get to summon this to the field! Spirit of the Harp! I'll put it in attack mode!"

Kaiba summoned a yellow-robed musician with a golden harp.

Spirit of the Harp

LIGHT/Fairy

LVL/4 ATK/800 DEF/2000

"Spirit of the Harp, reduce her life points!"

The musician quickly played a hymn from the harp and sent a powerful vibration that hit Jeri hard.

Jeri/5800 LP (6600-800)

"But, don't think my turn ends there. I'm sending my Ryu-Ran to attack more of your life points!"

The dragon fired heavy smoke through its nostrils as it covered Jeri's side field. She covered her mouth coughing as 2200 of her life points were deducted.

Jeri/3600 LP (5800-2200)

"I'll end my turn there, but the onslaught will continue."

"Now, I'll set a card facedown in defense mode. I end my turn here for now."

Hmm, I wonder what she set in place for a facedown card? The former champion eyed Jeri's card and summoned a horde of club-wielding green goblins. "I bring forth my Goblin Attack Force!"

Goblin Attack Force

EARTH/Warrior/Effect

LVL/4 ATK/2300 DEF/0

"Spirit of the Harp, attack her directly and wipe out yet more of her life points!"

As the musician was ready to play yet another painful note, a trap was immediately triggered on Jeri's side field.

"Sorry, Mr. Kaiba, but you've just activated my trap card! Negate Attack!"

As his monster's attack was denied, Kaiba scowled. "Another lucky shot, but that won't save you. I end my turn."

Suddenly, a newly drawn card caught her eye, forcing her to promptly play it.

"I summon the Goddess with the Third Eye!"

A brown-haired elf with a vertically opened green eye on her forehead appeared.

Goddess of the Third Eye

LIGHT/Fairy/Effect

LVL/4 ATK/1200 DEF/1000

Jeri flipped summoned a facedown card, revealing a familiar brown hairball with tiny eyes and limbs. Seto's face contorted and his teeth clenched seeing the cute creature.

"I flip summon to reveal my favorite monster: Kuriboh!"

Kuriboh

DARK/Fiend/Effect

LVL/1 ATK/300 DEF/200

Everything Kuriboh represented Kaiba loathed with a passion.

"You mean to tell me that you're going to rely on that hair ball to save you? Little girls like you would go for that kind of thing. That monster is an insult to the game of Duel Monsters."

"Why do you hate Kuriboh? He's cute."

"And for that reason has no place in Duel Monsters. Now, are you finished your turn?!"

"Not so fast. I'm going to equip my Kuriboh with this! I activate Multiply!"

Not this card! Ugh...! Seto seethed in thought as he saw more Kuribohs appearing. Painful memories of Duelist Kingdom were coming back to haunt him.

"Yugi's played this same strategy to throw you off before and I plan to do the same."

Damn Kuribohs! Those little things piss me off!

"Now, I sacrifice one face-up Kuriboh to place Kuriboh Token in defense and bring out four tokens in defense mode. Now I summon forth four Kuriboh tokens in defense mode!"

Kuriboh Token

DARK/Fiend/Token

LVL/1 ATK/300 DEF/200

"This is pathetic."

"Mr. Kaiba, you're being rude to my Kuriboh friends. For that, I activate United We Stand! With this card, I can increase the attack points of my Goddess of the Third Eye by 800 points for every monster I control! Thanks to Multiply, I now have 5 monsters on the field. See?"

Goddess of the Third Eye

ATK/5200 (1200 + 800 x 5) DEF/5000 (1000 + 800 x 5)

"Goddess of the Third Eye, attack his Spirit of the Harp!"

Suddenly, Kaiba intercepted. "Not so fast! I activate my trap card! Negate Attack!"

"You have your own Negate Attack?!"

"That's right and your monster's attack has been nullified."

"Not if I play this! I activate my other trap card! Seven Tools of the Bandit! I pay up 1000 of my own life points to negate the activation of your trap card and destroy it in the process! Now, your Negate Attack has been negated!"

Jeri/2600 LP (3600-1000)

Kaiba lets out a sigh of frustration, realizing Jeri effectively dueling well in her first official duel. Although he grossly underestimated her, he wasn't ready to accept her to be on his level.

"Goddess of the Third Eye, let's try this again! Attack his Spirit of the Harp! With her attack points being 5200, you lost a huge chunk of your life points, Mr. Kaiba!"

The Goddess of the Third Eye blasted Kaiba with a mystical beam head-on. Kaiba's face contorted and he nearly jaw dropped when 4400 of his life points were deducted.

Kaiba/1000 LP (5400-4400)

Kaiba felt even more insulted than Mai did.

"That ends my turn, champ. Oh, excuse me, former champion," Jeri giggled playfully at his expense.

(End theme)

Who does this brat take me for?! I would've expected Yugi to do this, but this girl?! I'm the former World champion of Duel Monsters! Now I'm being reduced to struggling with a rookie?! Worse, a little girl who plays Kuriboh of all monsters! I've been insulted for the last time! I'd rather be dueling with Wheeler than this prissy girl! If it weren't for her Nobleman of Extermination, I wouldn't have shuffled my deck. I would have had my Blue-Eyes White Dragon to wipe away her cutesy pet monsters. It's time to get serious and regain control of this duel!

Seto seethed more as he watched Jeri petting each of her Kuribohs. He pierced a deathly gaze at Jeri, ready to reclaim control and maintain his duelist pride.

"Wow, we're so close to what could be the biggest upset! Jeri has taken the lead in a shocking turn of events! Those Kuribohs are just simply adorable, Lillymon!" Floramon fell for the cuteness of the Kuribohs. "Oh, I wish I had one! But, let's give a round of applause for Jeri! She has managed to turn this duel to her favor! Lillymon, I take it the competition is going well back at Phoenix Arena? Please, give me the full scoop!"

xxxxx

Phoenix Arena/2:54 PM

Back in the Phoenix Arena, the four-way battle royal was still being decided. The crowds were in a frenzy.

"This battle royal has definitely made a turn around! Wolfmon has turned up the notch and digivolved into Beowulfmon! While Beowulfmon is fighting evenly with Piedmon, Loweemon's been on the defensive against Duskmon!"

(Crazy Battlefield resumes)

Beowulfmon charged forward and clashed with Piedmon again. Whilst the two warriors locked swords up, Beowulfmon was contemplating aiding Loweemon or or simply switch opponents with his brother. However, Piedmon wasn't about to let him go that easily and kept the Warrior of Light from helping Loweemon.

Gripping the handle of his sword, Beowulfmon swung it overhead and slammed it down, unleashing an immense swing force. Piedmon evaded the attack and let it impact a wall behind him.

"Ah, so close yet so far," Piedmon taunted Beowulfmon.

"You won't be laughing for long once I smack that stupid grin off your pasted face!"

"Kouji!" Loweemon called out from the opposite side of the ring.

"Keep your eyes on me, Kouichi!" Duskmon interrupted as he cut Loweemon from reaching Beowulfmon.

"What's the matter, Kouichi? Am I too fast for you?"

Loweemon attempted knocking Duskmon back with his lance. However, the corrupt Warrior of Darkness jumped over the lance and dazed him with a kick to the face.

"I know you better than even your own brother, Kouichi! I know your strengths and weaknesses. You're holding back because you fear for your brother's survival."

Shaking off his kick, Loweemon steadied himself. "My brother will take care of Piedmon! Just you wait and see!"

While Loweemon and Duskmon commenced their duel, Piedmon wasn't letting up on his assault on Beowulfmon. Beowulfmon clenched his sword and tried gutting Piedmon's stomach with it. The Dark Master narrowly jumped over Beowulfmon and landed behind him.

"Take this, Beowulfmon! Clown Trick!"

The jester unleashed a powerful magical beam that pushed Beowulfmon back. The warrior was sent skidding across the ring with his body damaged by Piedmon's attack.

"Kouji!"

"Your guard is down!" Once again, Duskmon reappeared above Loweemon and went for an dive bomb attack with his blades.

Loweemon's lion head chest produced a black sphere. "Shadow Meteor!" He blasted Duskmon in mid-air and sent him sailing over the ring.

Duskmon crashed into a side of the ring, leaving a small crater in the wake of his impact fall. Duskmon saw some parts of his armor slightly damaged by Loweemon's attack.

"Loweemon has mounted a comeback against Duskmon! But, just how long will his second wind last?" Lillymon announced. "Meanwhile, Piedmon is giving Beowulfmon a run for his money!"

"C'mon, Kouji! Go Kouichi! You've got to pull through for us!" Bokomon cheered them on.

Neemon added. "That Duskmon is sure a tough fellow."

"Oh! It's not like you haven't forgotten about him already?! He was once Kouichi, you dolt!"

"Hmm... Oh yeah! Him!"

"Ugh, sometimes I just want to take my book and smack it across your dodo-brained head."

Omegamon and the other Legendary Warriors focused intently on the battle royal match. Most feared the worst as Loweemon and Beowulfmon were still in a struggle.

(End theme)

"Kouichi's managing to hold his own out there," Blitzmon muttered.

"But, Kouji's struggling! I'm not sure if even Beowulfmon is enough to fight a Dark Master like Piedmon," Agunimon gritted. "Too bad most of the others aren't here... we can't even help him form MagnaGarurumon."

"That won't be necessary," Omegamon informed the Warrior of Fire. "By undergoing my week-long training, your powers have grown to the point where evolving into your Z-Hybrid forms will be easier. You won't require the need for all of you to be in one place."

"Is that true? Then, I can evolve into Kaiser Greymon when I want to?"

"At the cost of being at half-power, yes. In Kouji's case, he can become MagnaGarurumon if he chooses, but without the other Spirits to empower him, he won't be at full power and still won't be enough to fight Piedmon with."

Agunimon nodded. "Great, that's better than nothing. I hope Kouji's figured that out."

"Have you heard anything from Mercuremon and the others, Omegamon?" Blitzmon inquired.

"Considering that they left in quite a hurry, I don't have any updates on them. They should've by now found the ones called the Sailor Senshi... but that's just a best guess assumption."

xxxxx

Outside the Collapsing Canyon Falls/3:00 PM

"So, that's our side of the story," Arbormon explained the situation leading up to their current point. "Now, if you can just accept us into your group, we can find that sword sooner, ok?"

"Then, let's hurry," Pluto replied. "Pharaohmon will likely send more warriors to interfere with our progress."

Saturn added. "Indeed, and I won't need my planet-destroying power either."

"Wow, that girl can destroy a planet?" Grottomon asked.

Mercury stated. "She's the Senshi of Destruction."

"But, I only destroy and spread death upon the enemies who stand in our way."

"Why not try it on Pharaohmon? It'll throw him off guard and it makes it easier for all of us," Arbormon suggested.

"Arbormon, her powers would also kill us in the process," sighed Mercuremon. "Thou need to use your head and think."

"Hey, I fight with my fists not my head."

"So, you three are really Sailor Senshi, too?" Grottomon asked Rei, Minako, and Makoto directly.

"Yeah, but we just lost our powers to Pharaohmon," Makoto sighed. "But, we were told if we take the sword, then our powers could be restored to us. We're taking this gamble."

"Let's just hope we find that sword soon. I'm sick of not having my powers," Minako grumbled. "At least, with my old Sailor V training, that makes up for it."

"Good to know you remember those skills," Artemis said.

Rei nodded. "And I still can make good use of my seals."

Cammy bowed her head to the three Legendary Warriors. "Thank you for saving us there."

"It's no problem, kid," Arbormon replied. "Just don't stay out in the open like that. You're a heavy target for those punks."

"Please, you three haven't really told us about yourselves," Mercury asked. "How well do you know Agunimon and the Legendary Warriors?"

"Just for a while," replied Arbormon. "We've been training with Omegamon to prepare for the tournament. Since we couldn't take tournament spots, we decided to give you guys a hand."

"How did you know we would be here? We are many miles from the stadium," Saturn said.

"The element of our Spirits gave us a sixth sense. Kinda hard to explain," the Warrior of Wood stated. "Plus, Mercuremon's mirrors helped find y'all."

Mercuremon folded his arms. "Exactly what my friend here is implying."

"That's quite a talent," Rei said. "Almost similar to my ability to sense spiritual auras and presences, good or evil."

Grottomon pointed out. "Yeah? How come you weren't able to sense those creeps from finding you?"

"That's just it. They keep on concealing themselves and their auras. It's hard to find cloaked enemies."

"Um, Mercury. I have a question," Arbormon inquired to the blue-haired Senshi.

"Yes, what is it?"

"You really do trust us, right? I mean, we might not look like trustworthy fellas, but we're really good guys. We'll help y'all along this journey."

"As they say, don't judge a book by its over. In your case, don't judge your character based on your appearances," Mercury genuinely said. "You saved Cammy from being killed and we're grateful for that. I'm very grateful for it. Rei here is very grateful as well."

"Um, speaking of Rei, she seems kinda wary of us."

"Don't worry, Arbormon. It's just her nature of being protective of her friends and now her sister Cammy. You can't blame her, but I'm sure now she's convinced she can trust you," Mercury turned to Rei and winked. "Right?"

The Miko shrugged. "Well, when you're right, you're right."

The Warrior of Wood looked over Mercury's mini-computer. "And that? You're carrying that for a reason?"

"Actually, this is an important utensil. I use it to scan the perimeters of an area we are currently positioned at. It usually helps us to find hidden items we're looking for. Unfortunately, I'm not picking up anything when it comes to the sword's location."

"Might be a glitch. After all, this is a world made entirely out of data."

"That's what fascinates me about this place. It's quite unique."

Minako looks across to find a pink data ball rolling by her. "You can say that again. All I'm seeing are those pink balls. I just touched one just a moment ago and it burned my finger! Nasty little things!"

"I'd like to have a chance to explore this world further and study it," Mercury said. "Arbormon, you told me you were not familiar with this place?"

"That's right. I've never been here before."

"I see. Just asking."

"We still have ourselves a long way ahead, everyone," Pluto informed the group. "After we rest for half an hour, we shall proceed forward."

Minako sat down on a rock and stretched her legs. "Thank god. My feet are killing me!"

Makoto sat next to Minako. "Same here."

"Just make sure not to get struck by those streams of light," Grottomon warned the Senshi.

"Why? What will happen?" wondered Saturn.

"They transport Digimon somewhere. We saw some poor sap getting zapped by those stream things," Arbormon said. "My guess it teleports someone to some place or so one of the natives here warned us."

"Thou is correct," Mercuremon stated. "The last thing we want is to get separated."

"Thank you for the warning," Pluto said. "We will know for sure what lies ahead as far as danger is concerned."

While the group rested for the half hour, their next destination would be the mountainous range ahead of them. They only had day and a half to find the sword before the tournament reached its end.

xxxxx

Meanwhile, Scorpionus and his Scorpionite army monitored the Senshi and Legendary Warrior camp from afar.

"We've found them at last, my Scorpionite army. They shall be easy pickings once they cross past the Great Phoenixmon Mountain range. There's yet another desolate landscape on the other side where we shall launch an attack on them.

"General Scorpionus."

"What is it my subordinate?"

"If I'm not mistaken, the great dragon beast lurks within those regions."

"Yes, I know. Wait, you've just given me an idea. It looks like we won't even have to get our own hands dirty. I shall revive that monster using the dark magic Pharaohmon has bestowed upon me. Those Sailor Senshi and their allies will not expect it. Then, we shall intervene and finish what's left of them."

"Good idea, general."

"Now, fall out, men! The Great Phoenixmon Mountain range will be our next destination!"

After calling out their pre-victory war cry, the Scorpionite army advanced toward the Great Phoenixmon Range. What lied ahead was a dormant monster sealed long ago. With this beast revived, Scorpionus hopes it would finish off the Sailor Senshi and their entourage.

xxxxx

Phoenix Arena/3:05 PM

While the battle royal still in session, the crowd were still in a frenzy over the tournament action.

The Tamers and the Duelists were astounded by the sudden turnaround performance by Jeri. She not only was performing well in her first official duel, but she held her own against Seto Kaiba, which surprised even Yugi.

"Man, could Jeri really beat Kaiba?!" Joey wanted to gloat at Seto's expense. "Hah, that would show that jerk for looking down other duelists! Beat him for me, Jeri!"

Duke concurred. "One of the few times I'll ever agree with you, Joey."

"I must say I'm impressed. She's already making Kaiba sweat?" Mai wondered. "Yugi, you trained these kids well."

Ignoring everyone near him, Yami Yugi concentrated on Kaiba's duel with Jeri.

Rika added. "Jeri's doing hot and I'm proud of her, but this duel isn't over yet. She just needs to keep it up."

"I believe in Jeri!" Himura expressed his support. I know you're holding onto that bracelet I gave you. Looks like it's giving you better luck than I thought. I put all of my blessings on that item. It's all up to you to use your skills to beat Kaiba.

Just then, Inumon arrived with Seadramon following him. "How are the matches turning out, guys?"

"Where have you two been?" Felinismon asked. "Jeri's kicking some serious butt out there!"

"Sorry, but Inumon needed some time alone. I had to talk some sense into him," Seadramon addressed the group. "Ah, that Jeri girl is winning!"

"Yeah! She's doing great!" Guilmon replied. "Hey, Renamon, Inumon's back!"

Renamon turned and saw him. "I know. I could smell his scent before he got here."

"Hi, Renamon. Miss me?"

"Feeling any better?"

"You could say that. I needed some time to cool off."

"Understandable, you should see the battle match Those two warriors, Loweemon and Beowulfmon, have been performing quite well."

"I can tell, but they're facing some tough competition. But if they can knock those two off, then we'll have fewer of Pharaohmon's minions to worry about."

"For our sake, let's hope so!" Guardromon said.

Kenta cheered. "C'mon, Jeri!"

"I never thought I'd see the day our Jeri had Seto Kaiba on the ropes!" Kazu resisted the urge to cry; he wanted to cry for joy for Jeri but he didn't want to see one of his dueling idols lose. "She's doing the unthinkable!"

"Pi! Pi!" cheered Marine Angemon.

"Let's give her our full support. Go, Jeri!" Tristan cheered.

"Shoot, I'll cheer her over that pompous jerk any day," grumbled Joey. "Especially after the way he's treated me."

"Um, Inumon, don't you think we should tell them about Witchmon?" Seadramon asked his hellhound buddy.

"Not just yet."

DarkGabumon butted into their exchange. "Hey! Who's this Witchmon I'm hearing about?"

"A walking disaster," Seadramon sighed. "You don't want to know her."

"I'm actually kind of curious."

"You don't want to know her!" Inumon and Seadramon screamed in DarkGabumon's face.

"Ok, ok! Sheesh say it, don't spray it!"

"Ladies and gents! According to a report from Floramon, the duel between Seto Kaiba and Jeri Katou seems to be back on track!" Lillymon announced. "For those of you interested, you can take a look on the big screen. So far Jeri's leading the former champ in a sudden turn of events. Can Kaiba shift the duel back to his favor?"

xxxxx

Digital World/Section 12-3A: Rapid Falls Heights/3:07 PM

After taking another look at his 1000 life points, Seto focused on regaining momentum of the duel.

(Cue Yu-Gi-Oh! Forbidden Memories OST – Seto 3rd Duel (Extra Extended))

Kaiba openly declared. "Enough fooling around! I'm taking back control of this duel!" He took a card from his deck that made him smile coldly. I'll save this for later. "United We Stand card is very effective card, but there's a drawback. Your monster's attack is dependent on the amount of other monsters you control! Now I'll teach you the cost of aligning yourself with petty friends. Ryu-Ran, attack one of those Kuriboh Tokens!"

Jeri gasped and watched in horror as Ryu-Ran blew away one Token.

"For each Token that's destroyed, your Goddess loses 800 attack and defense points."

Goddess of the Third Eye

ATK/4400 (5200 - 800) DEF/4200 (5000 – 800)

"Next, I'll send my Goblin Attack Force to demolish another Kuriboh token!"

The Goblin Attack Force ganged up on another Kuriboh Token. The Kuriboh screeched painfully as it exploded into digital dust.

Goddess of the Third Eye

ATK/3600 (4400 – 800) DEF/3400 (4200 - 800)

"Now that they're done tearing apart the hair ball, I switch my Goblins in defense mode and end my turn."

"I don't lose any life points and I'm still ahead of you."

"Gloat all you want, girl, but you're going to learn the hard way when dueling with a elite duelist."

"All right, Mr. Kaiba, you asked it. Now, I send my Goddess of the Third Eye to attack your Ryu-Ran!"

As the Goddess launched a beam on the dragon, Kaiba countered quickly. "You've just activated my trap! Negate Attack!" He unveiled a facedown card. "That means your Goddess' attack is canceled out. My Ryu-Ran is safe from your attack. Oh well. Too bad."

"Ok, I give you this one, Mr. Kaiba. I end my turn here."

Seto summoned a monster to the field. "I play my Vorse Raider in attack mode!" Appearing before him was a green-skinned warrior wearing pants and an open vest. Three horns protruded from its head.

Vorse Raider

DARK/Beast-Warrior

LVL/4 ATK/1900 DEF/1200

"Ryu-Ran, wipe another one of her pathetic Tokens!"

Ryu-Ran blew a fiery blast that dissolved another Kuriboh Token.

Goddess of the Third Eye

ATK/2800 (3600 – 800) DEF/2600 (3400 - 800)

She won't be relying on those damn Kuribohs to save her life points.

Jeri steadied herself and eyed her duel hand. Whew, it's a good thing Felinismon suggested these cards. They've been saving my life points, but will it last in the long run?

"Vorse Raider, demolish her fourth Kuriboh token!"

Goddess of the Third Eye

ATK/2000 (2800 – 800) DEF/1800 (2600 - 800)

The mighty beast bellowed and charged forward, swinging its blade over the Token and slicing it in half. Jeri tried hard not to lose her nerve seeing another Kuriboh Token gone.

"You're only down to your Kuriboh, kid. They won't save you for long. I end my turn there."

Jeri examined her hand and threw down a monster on the field. "I summon a Kuriboh!"

Once again, Kaiba's face contorted as another furball with eye and feet materialized. He clenched his teeth hard, resisting the urge to chastise the girl. However, he couldn't contain it anymore.

"Why don't you play a decent card for once? Quit wasting my time with these cutesy things."

"Does it matter what I play? We're playing a good game here. You could at least acknowledge my dueling skills. You need to lighten up," Jeri scoffed. "Now, I'll send my Goddess of the Third Eye to attack your Vorse Raider. With a new Kuriboh on the field, my Goddess gets an additional 800 to her attack and defense points! Now she has an attack power of 2800!"

Goddess of the Third Eye

ATK/2800 (2000 + 800) DEF/2600 (1800 + 800)

The Goddess launched an attack on the mighty beast and wiped it out in one shot. Kaiba blanched in utter disbelief as his life points plunged all the way down to 100.

No... no... NO! THIS CAN'T BE HAPPENING!

Kaiba/100 LP (1000-900)

"Oh my gosh... I can't believe that actually worked!" Jeri was equally surprised. "I did it! Mr. Kaiba, did you see that? Now, all I need is one more attack and this duel will be over." She felt her hands beginning to sweat as her body racked with anxiety. Could I actually win?! I'm so close to beating Seto Kaiba. She looked down at the bracelet Himura gave her. It's thanks to you, Himura... for believing in me.

"Are my eyes deceiving me?! Will we actually witness the biggest upset in duel history? Considering that Kaiba has a reputation to maintain, this will really damage his status. But Jeri... in only her first match is moments from clenching victory!" Floramon announced. "All she needs is to destroy Kaiba's remaining life points and she will advance to the next round!"

"Mister Kaiba, my turn isn't through yet! Now I'll proceed to send my Kuriboh to destroy your Goblin Attack Force!"

The cute albeit ferocious Kuriboh launched itself forward and clawed through the Goblin Horde. With the Goblins' defense being zero, no damage was done to Kaiba's life points.

"You can sigh a big relief, Mr. Kaiba, but in just one more turn, I'll destroy your last 100 life points and advance to the next round."

"Quiet! I've heard enough from you!" Kaiba snapped back at her.

"I hope you learn that there's more than just winning the game, Mr. Kaiba. And for now I end my turn."

You can save your Tea speeches for another time, little girl. This time, I mean it!

Drawing a card to his hand, Kaiba scowled. "I summon my Gemini Elf to the field!"

Appearing before Kaiba were two elves, who attack and defend together.

Gemini Elf

EARTH/Spellcaster

LVL/4 ATK/1900 DEF/900

"Gemini Elves, attack her Kuriboh!"

With that, the Gemini Elf pair doubled teamed the Kuriboh, pummeling it to a pulp and casting him out of the field. Jeri witnessed the demise of her monster and 1600 of her life points.

Jeri/1000 LP (2600-1600)

"Oh no!"

"Oh, but it is. My turn isn't over. Ryu-Ran, destroy her Goddess of the Third Eye!"

The dragon unleashed a fiery blast that obliterated the Goddess.

Jeri/800 LP (1000-200)

"So much for your monsters! Now, I'll end my turn," the CEO coolly enjoyed Jeri's dilemma. "What else do you have in your pathetic deck? I don't even need to bring out my Blue-Eyes White Dragon to defeat you."

As Jeri drew another card to her hand, she saw she had no other card to defend her life points with. All she had left were fairly weaker fairy monsters. And if she decided to drag the duel out longer, Kaiba would be prompted to use Blue-Eyes anyways to make an example out of her.

I have nothing else. No monster in my hand will do anything! Oh well, I gave this my best shot... I nearly had this in my grasp. Here goes... Jeri seemingly gave in and put a facedown card in defense. "This in defense and I end my turn."

"Seems you're running out of monsters. Too bad. You could have wiped out the last of my life points. You blew it."

"This was my first duel. I should be proud of even dueling you of all people. I came close to defeating you. Now my friends will remember me as the one rookie duelist who almost beat Seto Kaiba."

Kaiba smirked. "Time to face reality, girl. It's over." As soon as Kaiba drew a new card to his hand, he glared at Jeri and chortled evilly. "Gemini Elf, attack her facedown card!"

The elf pair glided over Jeri's facedown card and stomped it, unveiling the Skelengel.

"Time to know your place! Ryu-Ran, blow away the rest of her life points!"

Ryu-Ran blew out another fiery blast that impacted Jeri's side field. The impact of the explosion nearly knocked Jeri back as she witnessed her last 800 life points drop down to nothing.

Jeri/0 LP

As Jeri sank to her knees, Seto Kaiba stood triumphantly. Jeri let out a deep sigh and accepted her defeat.

(End theme)

Floramon faced the camera to inform the Phoenix Arena crowd.

"We have ourselves our winner! Seto Kaiba makes a triumphant comeback and wins the duel! But, what a valiant effort by Jeri Katou! I'd really like to get her autograph."

Seto Kaiba snorted as he started walking past Jeri. However, the girl stood up and tapped his back. Kaiba looked over his shoulder and scowled a bit.

"Thanks for dueling me, Mr. Kaiba. It was an honor to duel a champion. I almost had you beat, but you're the better duelist."

"Just brush up on your skills, kid," Kaiba addressed her. "Who knows? I think you'll be better than Wheeler at least."

"Um, thank you... that was a compliment right?"

"All right, it's time to get you two back to the arena!" Floramon called forth the duelists.

"Sure," Jeri replied. Guys, here I come. I know you're still proud of my efforts. Yugi, Himura, Takato... you three molded me into a really great duelist. Thank you."

Seto and Jeri made their way through the doorway to be transported back into the virtual dome.

xxxxx

Phoenix Arena/3:14 PM

Moments later, Seto and Jeri were back inside the duel dome. Floramon signaled for the dome to descend to the arena floor. Jeri looked down to see her friends, both the Tamers, the Digimon, and Duelists, cheering her.

"Way go to, Jeri! You put up a great duel!" Takato cheered her on.

"What a duel!" Kazu and Kenta cheered simultaneously.

As the dome lowered, the doors slid open to release both duelists and Floramon. Jeri dashed out to meet her friends, who were still proud of her efforts.

"Jeri, that was incredible! I surely wasn't expecting you to almost beat the Seto Kaiba," Himura said. "I guess the bracelet brought you better luck than I thought."

"Thanks, Himura, but I only had a few weak monsters left on my last turn."

"Consider yourself lucky that ya didn't have to put up with Kaiba's Blue-Eyes," Joey said, looking over to see Seto meeting up with Mokuba.

Tea smiled genuinely. "Yugi's training did work out well in the end then."

Duke added. "Not surprised consider Takato beat me."

Mokuba openly praised his brother. "That was a close one, bro, but you really pulled through!"

The Kaiba brothers were only a few meters distanced away from the others.

"So, has anything changed so far? How's the battle royal going?" Jeri asked.

"Take a look for yourself," Felinismon pointed her Tamer to the ring. "The match has been getting intense!"

"C'mon, everyone, let's move a little far back from the ring," Yami Yugi suggested as he and Takato led their groups away. Seto and Mokuba followed suit, but headed over near the entrance way to watch the battle match.

(Cue Digimon Frontier OST – With the Will ~BGM Version~)

Back in the battle ring, Beowulfmon channeled a surge of light energy through his sword. As the sword became imbued with light, the Warrior of Light unleashed an immense fiery light that shaped into a giant wolf.

"Laugh this off, Piedmon! Frozen Hunter!"

The A-Hybrid swung his sword and sent the light wolf charging toward Piedmon. The Dark Master sidestepped the incoming giant wolf and lured it toward the other combatants.

"Ah, right this away!" Piedmon lured the wolf.

Wolfmon barked. "Loweemon! Move away!"

"What?" Loweemon glanced ahead as the wolf came toward him. He and Duskmon evaded the Frozen Hunter as it headed toward the side where Bokomon and Neemon were seated.

"OH NO! OH NO! WE'RE GOING TO DIE!" Bokomon panicked.

"BOKOMON! HOLD ME!"

"GET OFF OF ME! YOU'RE CHOKING ME!"

Beowulfmon raised his blade and recalled the Frozen Hunter back to him. The attack came heading back toward Piedmon, who tried outrunning it. Piedmon couldn't outrun it for long and was hit hard.

"AWESOME! Now that's what I call a curve ball!" Lillymon exclaimed. "What a great counter by Beowulfmon! Piedmon's being sent right out of the ring!"

Suddenly, a sinister laughter came from Piedmon as he recovered from the attack and dusted himself off. Beowulfmon was baffled by Piedmon's quick recovery from his attack.

"Ah, luckily I used a Clown Trick to cushion the impact," Piedmon said, clapping debris dust from his hands. "I applaud your efforts,Beowulfmon... albeit it lacked some style."

Beowulfmon cursed. "Damn it."

Piedmon hovered back to the ring and landed in the ring center. As Piedmon and Beowulfmon engaged battle again, Duskmon and Loweemon were still going at it.

Duskmon readied a blade and slashed at him. "Don't take your eyes off of me, Kouichi!"

Loweemon couldn't even put up his defenses in time as Duskmon rapidly slashed at him.

Omegamon, Agunimon, and Blitzmon witnessed the brothers struggle with Pharaohmon's warriors.

"C'mon, Kouichi!" cried Blitzmon. "Put up those defenses!"

Agunimon gritted. "Pull through, Kouichi! Don't let Duskmon win!"

Duskmon phased out and reappeared above Loweemon with his blade ready to behead him. The corrupt Warrior of Darkness came down and swiped at Loweemon's face.

"Kouichi! Your life ends here!"

As Duskmon drew closer, Loweemon raised his lance and parried Duskmon's blade. Loweemon spun around and drove his blade into Duskmon's gut. Duskmon fell down hard and doubled over in pain.

"Damn you... Kouichi..." Duskmon growled as he recalled the last second when Loweemon's staff cracked open his chest armor. Duskmon stared down at his chest and gasped at the gaping hole. His body slowly started to break down.

"No, how could you...?"

"It's such a shame," Loweemon muttered, turning around and facing the corrupt warrior. "I incapacitated you. There's nothing more you can do to me now."

Duskmon scowled and used his remaining strength to stand up. "Execute! Slide Evolution!"

Duskmon quickly took to the air and became enveloped in fractal code. His dark-armored humanoid form underwent a quick transformation and took on a dark brown-feathered demonic bird with sinister yellow eyes. He let out a terrifying cry and swooped down to attack Loweemon.

"Velgemon!"

"Two can play it that game. Execute! Slide Evolution! KaiserLeomon!"

Velgemon howled. "You're mine, Kouichi! Your fate has been sealed!"

KaiserLeomon bellowed. "Not if I have anything to say about it!"

As the two beasts collided head-on, their clash ignited a bright explosive flash of light that engulfed nearly the whole ring. Piedmon and Beowulfmon braced themselves. Etemon was aimlessly pushed out of the ring.

"The light is overbearing! I can barely see through this thick light!" Lillymon announced. "It's anarchy in the arena! We're all waiting to see who comes out on top out of this one! Beowulfmon and Piedmon better brace themselves tight!"

Everyone looked up to see KaiserLeomon striking Velgemon with rapid claw blows. Velgemon's body shuddered as fractal code surrounded him. KaiserLeomon landed back in the center ring fatigued where Velgemon floated down near him.

"Now to finish this," he muttered. "Execute! Slide Evolution! Loweemon!"

Loweemon pulled out his D-Scanner and used it to scan through Velgemon to collect his data. "Duskmon, may you never haunt me again. Digi-code scan!" He finished the job and scanned up Velgemon.

"All right, Kouichi!" Beowulfmon exclaimed.

(End theme)

Suddenly, Loweemon heard Duskmon's voice coming from the last bit of fractal code.

'Kouichi, this isn't over just yet! You haven't seen the last of me!'

Etemon got up and saw the end result of Duskmon's demise. "Um, well... since Duskmon was deleted... it's kinda pointless to make a count. Duskmon is now eliminated!"

"With Duskmon out of the picture, we're down to our three competitors! Loweemon, Beowulfmon and Piedmon!" Lillymon announced. "Looks like Piedmon has his work cut out for him."

"Hah! I beg to differ, miss!" The opportunistic Piedmon seized advantage and ran up toward the fatigued Loweemon.

Beowulfmon pursued Piedmon. "Kouichi, look out!"

Now tired from using up his powers quickly, Loweemon became easy pickings for Piedmon. He whirled around and barely caught Piedmon blasting him with a magical blast.

"Clown Trick!" shouted the Dark Master, who slammed his attack into Loweemon and sent him flying out of the ring.

Having taken the devastating attack, Loweemon fell hard outside the ring and knocked seemingly unconscious.

"KOUICHI! NO!" Beowulfmon yelled.

"I'm not done yet," the clown smirked with a gleam in his eye. "Have some more on me. Clown Trick!" He blasted Loweemon's body again.

"STOP IT! HE'S HELPLESS!"

Piedmon dropped his hands and shrugged. "Oh well. It's no fun when I can't hear him screaming in agony." He beckoned Etemon over. "I demand you start the count. Loweemon is clearly outside of the ring."

The monkey referee hopped out of the ring to find Loweemon buried under a pile of debris.

"Um, right! I'm on it! One! Two! Three! Four! Five! Six!"

Beowulfmon growled and bumrushed Piedmon. "Bastard!" He swung his sword at him, but the jester sidestepped it. He threw his sword down and exchanged fisticuffs with the Dark Master. "He was already down and you take advantage of an unconscious opponent?! No, you were aiming to kill him!"

"Come now, let's just be friends! Be happy you're lucky to advance to the next round!"

"I'm not playing your sick games anymore!" Beowulfmon ducked Piedmon's punch and shot an elbow into Piedmon, pushing him back.

"Seven!"

Suddenly, Loweemon slowly started to stir from the debris pile. The audience gasped and witnessed the Warrior of Darkness' resiliency. He struggled to stand on his feet.

"Oh, my...! Take a look at this! What valor display by Loweemon! He's refusing to let up and quit!" Lillymon announced. "But, he's struggling to stand vertically! Can he beat the count?!"

"That's it, Kouichi! Stay up!" Beowulfmon encouraged him. "You can do it!"

Piedmon growled. "Stay down, you punk."

"Eight!"

"Kouji... I've defeated Duskmon for now," Loweemon weakly muttered. "It's all on you. If you end up fighting Piedmon in the next round, please... get him back for me..."

With that, Loweemon collapsed facefirst and fell unconscious for real.

"Nine!"

"NO! KOUICHI!"

"Ten! Loweemon couldn't fully stand up before the ten count! As a result, Loweemon has been eliminated! The winners of fourth battle royal match are Wolfmon and Piedmon!"

"No!" Agunimon yelled. "He came so close to beating the count!"

"His body gave out on him at that last moment. He had exerted himself to bring down Duskmon," Omegamon stated. "He sacrificed his spot to ensure that Kouji advances."

"Don't tell me he's..."

"No, Junpei. There's nothing to fear. Kouichi is simply exhausted and needs to be taken to the infirmary."

"Great! Things just aren't looking too well for our side!" Agunimon snapped as he punched the guardrail he was leaning on. "First, Tomoki gets turned into stone by Basiliskmon! Ranamon's out! Now, Loweemon was just nearly killed! We also can't forget about Mercuremon, Arbormon, and Grottomon on a temporary leave."

"Calm down, Takuya. As I said, the wounds will heal," Omegamon reassured him. "Ranamon and Loweemon will be back on their feet in no time. As for Tomoki, we will just have to put faith in the individual who has to face the sinister serpent."

The Warrior of Fire calmed down and sighed deeply. "I'm sorry, Omegamon. I just overreacted."

"On the other hand, Fairymon and Wolfmon have advanced," Blitzmon reassured his colleague. "Plus, you still have a match."

"You're right and I'm not going to let you guys down! I'll see to it!"

Meanwhile, Beowulfmon beckoned off the medical team and carried Loweemon. Before sprinting off to the infirmary hall, he shifted over and glared intently at Piedmon.

"Piedmon, listen up. If we meet up in the next round, I can promise you pain you'll never forget. You'll regret this."

Piedmon shrugged off his angry tone. "Such idle threats. Just pray that we do meet in the next round. Until then, go treat your fool of a brother's wounds."

Resisting the urge to strike him down, Beowulfmon focused his efforts on taking Loweemon to the infirmary. He headed off with the medical team storming behind him.

"Blitzmon, let's go see Kouichi and Kouji," Agunimon insisted.

"Right. Coming along, Omegamon?"

"I'll catch up a little later, you two. Please, go see your friends."

"Ok. C'mon, Blitzmon."

As the Warriors jumped over the railing and followed behind the medical team, Omegamon was left to regret his decision not to participate in the tournament and felt partially responsible for underestimating the enemy, which in turn led to the unfortunate turn of events for Tomoki and Kouichi.

Meanwhile, within the crowd audience, the two Digimon stooges were saddened over the events that had just transpired.

"Bokomon, will Kouichi be okay?"

"For once you ask a reasonable question... I wish I knew... please, be ok, Kouichi... dear boy."

xxxxx

Infirmary Room #3/3:25 PM

Beowulfmon carried Loweemon into the infirmary. The minute he opened the door, Fairymon came walking out alarmed.

"Whoa, Kouji!" Fairymon cried out.

"Fairymon? How's Ranamon doing?"

"Jaarin...? She should be doing fine. All she had was a hurt back," she answered as her eyes fell on Loweemon. "Oh my god, he took it worse than I thought! We just saw what happened on the TV!" She let Beowulfmon in to put Loweemon on one of the available beds.

"He's unconscious, but at least we didn't lose him," Beowulfmon said.

Fairymon clenched her fists. "Oh, that Piedmon jerk is gonna pain for this!"

The Wong family saw the Warriors gather near Loweemon.

"Kouichi...?!" Jaarin gasped.

"Hey, guys! How are those two holding up?" Agunimon called out upon entering the infirmary.

"Agunimon! Loweemon's..." Fairymon spoke up. "He's in bad shape."

"I know. Piedmon did this..." The Warrior of Fire approached Loweemon's bed.

Blitzmon entered with the medical team.

Beowulfmon turned away and growled. "I wish I get my hands on that conniving bastard in the next round, but I'll definitely fight him as MagnaGarurumon."

"Let's let the medics handle things from here," Agunimon said while taking Beowulfmon out of the room. "Loweemon's in good hands now."

"How about I stay with him?" Beowulfmon suggested, standing beside Loweemon's bedside. "I'll let you know what the medics tell me."

Agunimon nodded. "Ok then. C'mon, guys." He called Fairymon and Blitzmon out of the infirmary.

Beowulfmon sat on a chair as a nurse checked for Loweemon's pulse.

Kouichi., pull through, my brother.

On the far opposite end of the same room, Jaarin lied still in a bed while relieving her back. Henry, Suzie, and Lopmon stayed by her bedside.

"Big sister Jaarin, how's your back feeling?"

"Oh, it hurts but it's getting better, Suzie. Ah, this bed is really comfy."

"Jaarin," Henry said. "I still can't wrap my head around the thought of you being one of the Legendary Warriors, but you left me subtle hints... during those times I crossed paths with Ranamon. It was you all along."

She smirked. "Surprised, bro?"

"Dad's gonna flip when he founds out you can turn into a Digimon. How does it feel to digivolve?"

"You mean Spirit Evolve? It was a weird feeling from the get-go, but I feel much stronger and I can do more to help you and the other Legendary Warriors."

"Guess you got fed up with sitting on the sidelines?"

"Totally."

As Henry glanced over behind him, he sighed sadly when he saw the petrified Rapidmon. Jaarin genuinely took her brother's sadness to heart.

"Henry, I'm sorry about Terriermon. I really am."

"It's all right. Whoever defeats that snake will have my blessings. I don't care who it is, I'll be thankful."

"What about Inumon, Henry?" Lopmon asked.

"He and Basiliskmon have been sworn enemies according to Himura. I'm sure Himura and Inumon will figure out a way to neutralize Basiliskmon and destroy that gem."

Suzie leaned over and carefully hugged her sister. "You're like a superhero now, big sister! Yay!"

"May I have a look at your digivice, Jaarin?"

"My D-Scanner? Sure here," Jaarin dug into her side pocket and handed her D-Scanner to Henry.

He thoroughly examined the D-Scanner and eyed the screen. He pressed a button as it displayed the Spirits of Water.

"Whenever I need to evolve, I say 'Execute! Spirit Evolution!' Then, I become Ranamon. Whenever I want to become Calmaramon, I'll simply have to say the command 'Execute! Slide Evolution!'"

"Sounds pretty simple."

"It is when you use it more often."

"I see. It's great to have you fighting for our cause, Jaarin," Henry said worriedly as he handed Jaarin back her D-Scanner. "It's dangerous though. You sure you can handle it?"

"Hey, you saw me out there in action, didn't ya?" She winked to Henry. "I can take care of myself."

"Just don't go hurting your back more often."

"This is nothing. I'm active during basketball season and I train hard with sensei."

"How long are we going to stay in here, Henwy?"

"As long as we want, Suzie."

"You three don't have to stay here. I can get some rest for the time being."

"No, we're going to stay until you get better. Don't worry we won't wake you. I brought my cards to play with."

"You dueled really well out there. You almost had it won, Henry."

"Oh, you're just saying that. I got a little too cocky."

"But, you did really well. We both tried our best and that's all that matters."

"When you were Ranamon, you were fighting well out there. Much better than I thought."

"The martial arts background certainly helps as a prerequisite, but the Spirits gave me a surge of energy like I've never felt. I became superhuman."

"Incredible," he chuckled a bit. "Maybe I should find a spirit for myself one day."

Jaarin added. "Who knows? Maybe you will."

"We'll let you rest for now, Jaarin."

"Oh, but you're still going to stay in here?"

"Yeah, but I'll be shuffling through my deck and showing Suzie my cards. We'll keep quiet."

Jaarin nodded watching Henry showing them his Duel Monsters deck.

xxxxx

Demon Corps Locker Room/3:33 PM

MarineDevimon walked out carrying a box of chocolates in his hand. As he closed the door, a familiar sound of burger munching startled him. He spun around and caught SkullSatanmon eating a cheeseburger.

"Hey, where you going, Romeo?"

MarineDevimon scowled. "What does it look like?! I'm going to find that human girl and ask her to change into Calmaramon."

"Really? You think she'll take a liking to you?" SkullSatanmon laughed. "She's gonna so turn you down! Hah!"

"I'll wait until those kids leave the infirmary."

"The ladies are so going to kill you for this."

"So, I'm not allowed to find a lady of my dreams and you get to eat those cheeseburgers everyday? You can't even digest them! You're a walking bag of bones!"

"So? I love the taste."

"Well, I have every right to find myself a woman," the marine demon shoved SkullSatanmon aside. "Now if you'll excuse me..."

As Marine Devimon slipped away, SkullSatanmon just continued consuming more cheeseburgers for no reason without a care in the world.

Not too far from the Demon Corps dressing room, Kuzuhamon stood in the hallway skimming through Inumon's pictures. She giggled feverishly and eyed each Inumon photo like her own prized possession.

"Inumon, I can't get over you even if you hate me!" Kuzuhamon became so smitten for him. "Soon I will win your love and get rid of that no good Renamon! You should dump her and go with me!"

"Talking to yourself, are we?" Came Piedmon's voice, who interrupted Kuzuhamon's moment of solitude.

Kuzuhamon turned around and saw Piedmon sauntering down the hall.

"If I were you, I'd get ready for your match. You never know when you'll be up to compete. Don't let Lord Pharaohmon down."

"Right, I get it."

Once Piedmon entered his dressing room, Kuzuhamon took out the photos and pressed them against her face. She kissed the front pictorial of Inumon, leaving a lipstick mark on it.

"Just you wait. I'll defeat Renamon and you shall become my new man. Besides, I've already reserved a room for us two at the Sphinxmon Hotel. Hehehe!"

xxxxx

MarineDevimon quietly slipped through the hall and poked his head out. The coast was clear for him to pass. He stopped to hear Jaarin conversing with her siblings. He poked a hole through the wall and peeped inside the infirmary.

To his delight, MarineDevimon spotted Jaarin in bed giggling as Henry, Lopmon, and Suzie playing cards.

The marine demon's face turned red when he saw Jaarin and all he could picture in his mind was Calmaramon blowing him a kiss.

Don't worry, my one true love. I'll wait 'till you're alone and make you become Calmaramon. Then, you shall be mine, my love!

xxxxx

Somewhere in Phoenix Arena/3:36 PM

The Spirit Detective crew finished grabbing themselves food to eat. Though, Hiei took a pass and drank a frozen drink.

"You sure you don't want solid foods now, Hiei?" Botan asked for the near tenth time, which slightly irked the demon.

Hiei replied with an irritated tone. "Ask me again and I'll stuff the orange-haired fool's hotdog down your throat."

"Well, that's a rude thing for you to say!" snapped the ferry girl.

Kuwabara bit into his last hotdog. "Finders keepers. This dog's mine."

"Yeesh, I shouldn't had all those dogs myself," Yusuke rubbed his full stomach. "I'm afraid of getting gut punched."

"That could play in your favor in your match," Kurama chuckled.

"Hey, Kurama, are ya really gonna fight that Brimstone guy again?" Kuwabara inquired after finishing his hotdog.

"He asked me for a rematch since we were being interrupted by our other two opponents. I agreed to his terms... and should I lose in the next round or even the next, I'll give him what he wants no matter what."

"Looks like I'm going to have to wing it all," Yusuke said. "I'm ready to kick some serious ass! My opponents are this Guil-whatever his name is, this Demon guy, and some Machinedramon?"

"It's 'Guilmon'," Botan promptly corrected him. "And I'd take the match seriously."

"I am as long as I get the chance to fight Pharaohmon."

"Consider yourself lucky, detective," Hiei said. "That committee had better find me a suitable opponent for the next exhibition match."

"Yeah, same here," Kuwabara huffed.

Somehow, I get the feeling I'm up next. Yusuke thought.

As the group passed on by, unbeknownst to them, a figure hiding her face behind a hood watched them. She eyed Hiei specifically and smirked coolly.

xxxxx

Phoenix Arena/3:45 PM

"That sure was a great effort, Jeri," Himura said.

"All I wanted was a good and honest duel."

Felinismon smirked a cat's smile. "Ah, and I'm glad my Kuriboh suggestion came in handy. They're soooo cute!"

"They are and thanks for the idea, Felinismon," Jeri winked.

"Inumon, I'm curious. Who is this Witchmon?" Renamon inquired the hellhound. "You and Seadramon keep mentioning her like she's a plague."

"Believe me, Renamon. She's trouble and even you'll learn the hard way should you ever meet her."

Seadramon spat out. "Yes! She's put us through enough hell as it is!"

DarkGabumon laughed out loud. "Haha! I'd like to meet this Witchmon just to see that stupid look on your face, mutt!"

"It's not funny!"

"Himura, what the heck are they talking about?" Takato asked.

Guilmon replied. "They're talking about some Witchmon."

"Witchmon? Who's that?" Kazu wondered.

"WELLL! HELLLLLLLLLLO THERE, MY DEAR FRIENDS!"

The loud and shrilly girl's yell made Inumon, Seadramon, and Himura freeze in their places. The voice had brought chills down their spines. As the trio turned around, they saw a youthful lady wearing a red witch's outfit and a large witch hat. Her face was plastered with an innocent and merry smile.

"It's been a while my friends!" Witchmon giggled, approaching and waving to the group.

"Whoa, wait a second! That's Witchmon?" Dark Gabumon pointed to her.

"Yeah," Inumon shuddered. "That's her."

"I thought she would be a little scarier than that, mutt. She doesn't seem too bad."

"Looks can be deceiving, Dark Gabumon," sighed Seadramon. "Everyone. Allow us to introduce to you, our old friend Witchmon."

"Hello, everyone! You seem like wonderful people! I just got done speaking with Anubimon and he's allowed me to visit you all!"

Witchmon noticed Seadramon trying to slip away down the arena hallway. She ran up and jumped him, pulling him into a tight hug.

"Oohhh, Seadramon! It's been such a long time! When's the last time we saw each other?!"

"ACK...! You can let go of me...! Need breathing room!"

Renamon mumbled. "Witchmon seems to have a liking for Seadramon."

Inumon groaned. "You have no idea..."

"Great, just what we needed. Another nutcase," Rika said.

"Let's be nice, Rika," Takato added. "Let's give her a welcoming gesture. What do you say, Guilmon?"

"Yeah!"

"Hey, where did Yugi and the others go?" Kenta wondered.

Himura replied. "They just went down to see what's available at the snack bar. They'll be back. Though, I wonder who's up next to duel?"

"We'll know once they make the announcement. In the meantime, let's welcome Witchmon to the group," the gogglehead said.

Then, right on cue, Lillymon announced. "Ladies and gents! Can Kazu Shioda and Joey Wheeler come to the arena? You two are set to duel next!"

Upon hearing this, Kazu pulled out his deck and kissed it. "Time for me to shine, guys."

Guardromon chimed in acting as Kazu's cheerleader. "Kazu, Kazu, Kazu! Kick Joey's butt!"

Takato patted Guilmon's head. "And you're up next, boy. Show 'em what you got!"

Guilmon nodded. "Oh yeah!"

Lillymon announced. "And can I have the following enter the battle ring for the fifth battle royal match? Guilmon! Yusuke Urameshi! Demon! Machinedramon! You're all up!"

xxxxx

(Preview)

TK: Hey, guys! Like Tai before me, I'm not in this story but I'm just a guest. The next sets of matches are set to commence. Kazu and Joey will duel next and talk about a duel between two wise cracks.

Tea: I don't know who's more embarrassing...

Rika: Tell me about it.

Kazu: In case you don't know, I'm Hirokazu! I've mastered the realm of Digimon card dueling and my next goal is to master Duel Monsters. Joey, you're just going to be another casualty on my list.

Joey: Just keep dreaming, pal!

Takato: If that wasn't enough, wait until you see Witchmon stir up trouble.

Witchmon: Whoops, I guess I need to work on my magic a little more.

Renamon: You just did not turn my fur purple! You're dead!

Rika: This Witchmon is nothing but trouble!

Inumon: (sighs) I told you guys.

Rei: Meanwhile, we make our way into the Great Phoenixmon range and the Scorpionites awaken the great dragon beast.

Scorpionus: Yes, awaken great dragon beast, Ryuukoutsuseimon!

Arbormon: Great, now we have a dragon to deal with if we hope to cross to the other side of these damn mountains?

Yami Yugi: The battle royal will be just as intense!

Demon: In the name of Pharaohmon and my Demon Corps, I shall clench victory!

Yusuke: You'll have to go through me, freak.

Guilmon: Time to put Anubimon's training results to the test! Heads up, Machinedramon!

Pharaohmon: Next time on the Wrath of Pharaohmon Redux. Yes, indeed, how appropriate for a series to be named after me.

Takato: You wish! Next time on Redux!

Joey and Kazu, the Brash Duelists! Gallantmon and Yusuke's Team-Up!

Botan: You don't want to miss out on this! Because this is where the fun begins!

xxxxx

A/N: All right! Honestly, I'm surprised Jeri was that close to beating Kaiba. The Tamers' decks certainly are nothing to sneeze at. Granted, these decks were put together by LazerWulf in 2004-2005. Nowadays, and since then, there's been an overabundance of overpowered cards that would put these decks to shame. And Kaiba's hatred for Kuriboh becomes more evident. Haha.

Loweemon vs. Duskmon happens. Kouichi wins... for now. This won't be the last you see of Duskmon in this story. Piedmon shows us he'll do whatever it takes to win.

The Senshi form an alliance with Mercuremon, Arbormon, and Grottomon. And what's this? The beginning of more Ami and Vega moments.

MarineDevimon still has his sights set on Jaarin. What else is new?

And who shows up at the end? Witchmon. Here comes trouble indeed. ;)

Anyway, that's it for this chapter. Next time, the brash duelists Kazu and Joey get ready to duel. Yusuke and Guilmon gear up for action against Demon and Machinedramon in the next four-way battle royal. More tournament action in these first round matches to come!

Until then, send a review and see you in the next chapter!