Greetings, community! Dvdryms here with Chapter 80. First, in response to your questions.

—To Guest (1): The Odd-Eyes hybrids will probably make an appearance again in the coming Duels.

—To Drake-san and Guest (2): Yukio will most likely not have a Gemini Monster. As for an alternate form of Integration Paladin or Genesis Omega Dragon, I can't say anything as of yet.

—To Guest (3): Aeshma was used again by Yukio in the fight against Don Thousand's simulacrum. As to whether he'll use it again or not…we'll see.

And now, on with the story!


Chapter 80 – Maiami Championship Preliminaries IV

[The time for the preliminaries' end is almost upon us! The only Duelists left that have yet to battle are Yugo, Sakaki Yuya, Kurosaki Ruri and Yuto! Are you all just as excited as I am for the upcoming two matches!?]

Nico's query was met with cheers that resounded throughout the entire Maiami Stadium. Next to him, Melissa smiled.

[That's one boisterous yes if I've ever heard one! Now then, with the four Duelists dashing like crazy towards each other's location, this…oh, it looks like there's an encounter in the Volcano area! That was fast!]

The monitors surrounding the stadium began transmitting images of the Volcano area, where two Duelists were facing each other next to the river of lava. Upon catching sight of them, Kaito smirked.

"It's Yuto and Ruri, eh? This should be interesting to watch."

As they faced each other, both Yuto and Ruri had matching smiles on their faces.

"Truth be told, I was hoping to face Yugo and settle my grudge." Yuto said. "But this isn't so bad either."

"Hm?" Ruri raised an eyebrow. "You'd better not be implying that I'm not enough, Yuto. Otherwise, you're in for some punishment."

"I would never." Yuto said. "I'm many things, but stupid isn't one of them. I've fought with and against you many times, so I know full well how skilled you are."

"Good boy." Ruri smiled. "As for me, I was hoping we'd get to Duel against one another. Our last Duel…wasn't exactly a pleasant one for everyone involved…"

Yuto frowned at this. The last time they had fought against each other, Ruri was controlled by the Doktor's parasites and had turned vicious, while he was little more than a phantom who could only exchange places with Yuya at times. Not pleasant was an understatement in his opinion.

"But we're here now, and we can enjoy ourselves to our hearts' content." Ruri said as she activated her Duel Disk. "That's why, try not to lose too quickly, OK?"

"Someone's confident, especially considering your win ratio against me." Yuto said as he activated his Duel Disk as well. "Let's see just how much stronger you've got, Ruri."

[The pair this time is Yuto and Ruri-chan!] Melissa announced. [Therefore, without further ado, Preliminary Round seventh match, start!]

[Duel!]

Both Duelists shouted together.

Yuto – LP: 4000

Ruri – LP: 4000

"I'll take the first turn." Yuto said. "I place three cards face-down and end my turn."

"Your usual start, eh?" Ruri chuckled. "Some things never change. Fortunately, my Dueling isn't one of them. My turn! Draw! Using the Scale 0 Lyrical Luscinia – Topaz Prinia (ATK: 100/DEF: 100/LV: 1/SC: 0) and the Scale 5 Lyrical Luscinia – Zircon Dunnock (Wind/Winged Beast/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 100/DEF: 100/LV: 1/SC: 5), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

Two columns of light appeared on Ruri's field, with Topaz Prinia and a female anthropomorphic bird colored silver with dark blue gems attached to its body rising to their top.

"With my current Scale, I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 1 through 4." Ruri continued. "Pendulum Summon! Flock to me, Lyrical Luscinia – Cobalt Sparrow (ATK: 0/DEF: 100/LV: 1), Lyrical Luscinia – Larimar Finch (ATK: 100/DEF: 0/LV: 1) and Lyrical Luscinia – Iolite Chough (ATK: 100/DEF: 0/LV: 1)!"

Three beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Monsters upon landing on Ruri's field.

"Since it was Special Summoned, Cobalt Sparrow's effect allows me to add a second copy of it from my Deck to my hand." Ruri said. "Moreover, Iolite Chough's effect allows me to draw cards from my Deck equal to the number of other "Lyrical Luscinia" Monsters on my field, in this case two. Next, I activate Sapphire Swallow's effect in my hand, which allows me to Special Summon it along with a Level 1 "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster from my hand. Come, Lyrical Luscinia – Sapphire Swallow (ATK: 100/DEF: 0/LV: 1) and the second copy of Cobalt Sparrow!"

Two portals appeared on Ruri's field, with her two Monsters emerging from it and coming to hover next to her other Monsters.

"Five Monsters in one go…" Sayaka muttered. "That means Ruri's ace Monster is coming."

"I Overlay my five Level 1 Monsters!" As her five Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Ruri chanted. "Birds with beautiful wings! Gather on the battlefield and take brilliant flight! Xyz Summon! Dance in the sky, Rank 1! Lyrical Luscinia – Assembly Nightingale (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/R: 1/OU: 5)!"

Ruri's ace Monster materialized on the field amidst a rain of golden feathers.

"Assembly Nightingale's attack becomes equal to the number of Overlay Units attached to it multiplied by 100 (Assembly Nightingale ATK: 0→500)." Ruri declared. "Then, Topaz Prinia's Pendulum Effect activates, allowing me to draw a card from my Deck since I Xyz Summoned a "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster. In addition, Zircon Dunnock's Pendulum Effect activates. Once per turn, when a "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster is Xyz Summoned successfully, I can multiply its attack by an amount equal to the number of Overlay Units attached to it. As such, Assembly Nightingale's attack will be multiplied by 5 (Assembly Nightingale ATK: 500→2500)."

"An attack of 2500?" Allen grimaced. "This is bad. If Ruri uses Assembly Nightingale's effect to attack continuously with that much attack, Yuto's through. Those set cards of his had better be good ones."

"Moving on, I summon Lyrical Luscinia – Opal Bulbul (ATK: 100/DEF: 0/LV: 1)!"

Opal Bulbul appeared on Ruri's field next to Assembly Nightingale.

"Since it was summoned successfully while I control another "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster, Opal Bulbul's effect activates." Ruri said. "Thanks to it, I can Special Summon a "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster from my Deck. Come, Lyrical Luscinia – Apatite Thrush (ATK: 0/DEF: 100/LV: 1)!"

A portal appeared on Ruri's field, with Apatite Thrush emerging from it.

"I Overlay the Level 1 Opal Bulbul and Apatite Thrush!" As her two Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Ruri chanted for the second time in a row. "Birds with beautiful wings! Let your tranquil melody echo across the battlefield! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 1! Lyrical Luscinia – Chorus Mockingbird (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/R: 1/OU: 2) in defense mode!"

Chorus Mockingbird appeared on Ruri's field next to Assembly Nightingale.

"I activate Chorus Mockingbird's effect, which allows me to inflict damage to my opponent equal to the number of Overlay Units attached on "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monsters on my field multiplied by 300." Ruri declared. "Furthermore, since Apatite Thrush was used as an Xyz Material, its effect activates. The first time a "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster inflicts damage to my opponent, that damage is doubled. There are seven Overlay Units attached to "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monsters, meaning you'll receive 4200 points of damage!"

"Not so fast!" Yuto exclaimed. "I activate the Trap Card Phantom Knights Dread Escutcheon! Through its effect, an instance of damage is reduced to 0 and I can draw a card from my Deck for every 2000 points of damage I would have received! As such, I will draw two cards!"

"Then, let's battle!" Ruri said. "Assembly Nightingale, attack Yuto directly!"

"Since my opponent attacks directly, I can activate the Trap Card Phantom Knights Cursed Chains!" Yuto shouted. "Through its effect, I will Special Summon it as a Monster, negate your attack and prevent you from declaring an attack for the rest of this turn! Come, Phantom Knights Cursed Chains (ATK: 1000/DEF: 0/LV: 4)!"

An armored knight with several chains extending from its limbs appeared on Yuto's field. It then launched its chains forward, binding Ruri's Monsters and forcing them to their knees.

"As expected of Yuto." Ruri smiled. "A play of this level wasn't enough to bring you down. However, the Duel has only just begun. I place a card face-down and end my turn."

[Yuto skillfully evaded a vicious assault that would have taken down most average Duelists and remains in the game!] Nico exclaimed. [How will he respond to Ruri's opening play!?]

"It's my turn!" Yuto announced. "Draw! Since I control a "Phantom Knights" Monster, I can Special Summon this card from my hand. Come, Phantom Knights Silent Boots (ATK: 200/DEF: 1200/LV: 3)!"

Silent Boots appeared on Yuto's field next to Cursed Chains.

"Since a "Phantom Knights" Monster was Special Summoned to my field, I can also Special Summon this card from my hand." Yuto continued. "Come, Phantom Knights Stained Greaves (Dark/Warrior/Effect/ATK: 1200/DEF: 600/LV: 3)!"

An armored knight with blue flames surrounding his face, arms and hips, which was armed with two curved blades, appeared on Yuto's field.

"Since it was Special Summoned by its own effect, Stained Greaves' Level is increased by 1 (Stained Greaves LV: 3→4)." Yuto said. "Next, I summon Phantom Knights Tattered Flag (ATK: 0/DEF: 1200/LV: 3)!"

Tattered Flag materialized on Yuto's field next to his other three Monsters.

"I Overlay the Level 3 Silent Boots and Tattered Flag!" As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuto chanted. "Souls of knights who fell on the battlefield! Revive here and now, and become the light that breaks the darkness! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 3! Phantom Knights Break Sword (ATK: 2000/DEF: 0/R: 3/OU: 2)!"

The headless knight holding a broken broadsword appeared on Yuto's field.

"I'm not finished yet." Yuto said. "Next, I Overlay the Level 4 Cursed Chains and Stained Greaves!"

As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuto chanted once again.

"Vengeful spirits oppressed by tyrannous authority! Transform into a cursed arrow and tear through the pride of the highborn! Xyz Summon! Strike them down, Rank 4! Phantom Knights Wraith Crossbow (Dark/Warrior/Xyz/Effect/ATK: 2200/DEF: 2000/R: 4/OU: 2)!"

A Monster clad in black leather armor that held an oversized crossbow surrounded by blue flames appeared on Yuto's field.

"I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Wraith Crossbow's effect." Yuto declared. "Thanks to it, I can destroy a "Phantom Knights" Monster on my field and deal damage to my opponent equal to its Level or Rank multiplied by 200. I will destroy the Rank 3 Break Sword to deal 600 points of damage to you!"

Following Yuto's words, Break Sword turned into a stream of blue flames that transformed into an arrow. Wraith Crossbow grabbed it and set it into his crossbow, shooting it at Ruri and striking her at her shoulder, with her grimacing.

Ruri – LP: 4000→3400

"The destroyed Break Sword's effect activates." Yuto continued. "When it's destroyed, I can Special Summon its attached Xyz Materials from my Graveyard as Level 4 Monsters. Revive, Silent Boots and Tattered Flag!"

A fissure opened on Yuto's field, with his two Monsters climbing out of it and landing on his field once again.

"I Overlay my two Level 4 Monsters!" As his two Monsters turned into streams of light and were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuto chanted for the third time in a row. "Relentless warrior wandering through the endless battlefield! Embody the fury of rebellion and strike down the unjust! Xyz Summon! Come forth, Rank 4! Phantom Knights Frayed Whip (ATK: 2400/DEF: 1500/R: 4/OU: 2)!"

Frayed Whip appeared on Yuto's field next to Wraith Crossbow.

"I detach Wraith Crossbow's second Overlay Unit to activate its effect once again." Yuto said. "I will destroy the Rank 4 Frayed Whip to deal 800 points of damage to you!"

Wraith Crossbow shot yet another flaming arrow at Ruri, striking her in her abdomen and causing her to double over.

Ruri – LP: 3400→2600

"What's the meaning of this?" Ruri frowned. "You're flippantly destroying your Xyz Monsters for so little damage? You do know that as long as Assembly Nightingale is on my field, you're in a grave disadvantage, right?"

"Not for long." Yuto smirked. "I activate the Spell Card Rank-Up-Magic Phantom Force. Through its effect, I can banish any number of Dark-attribute Monsters from my Graveyard, and then I can use a Dark-attribute Xyz Monster I control as material in order to Xyz Summon a "Phantom Knights" Xyz Monster whose Rank is equal to that Monster's Rank plus the number of Monsters banished. I will banish Frayed Whip, Break Sword, Silent Boots and Tattered Flag in order to Xyz Summon by using Wraith Crossbow as material!"

As Wraith Crossbow turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuto chanted for the fourth time in a row.

"The fury of the restless spirits coalesces within the vortex of battle! Unleash your peerless strength and overturn the battlefield of despair! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Arise, Rank 8! Phantom Knights Terminate Mace (Dark/Warrior/Xyz/Effect/ATK: 2900/DEF: 2650/R: 8/OU: 1)!"

A tall Monster clad in ominous pitch-black armor with blue flames flowing behind it in the shape of a cape and surrounding its helm, which held a large mace with a sinister design, appeared on Yuto's field.

"Terminate Mace's effect activates." Yuto declared. "When this card is Xyz Summoned successfully, I can send Monsters on my opponent's field to the Graveyard equal to the number of "Phantom Knights" Monsters that were destroyed during this turn and the previous turn. Two Monsters were destroyed, meaning I can send both Assembly Nightingale and Chorus Mockingbird to the Graveyard. Do it, Terminate Mace!"

Following Yuto's words, Terminate Mace slammed its mace on the ground, opening a large number of fissures out of which torrents of blue flames erupted, consuming Ruri's Monsters and leaving her field bare.

[Oh my, this looks really bad for Kurosaki Ruri!] Nico announced. [Her Monsters were wiped out with a single blow! Should Yuto's next attack go through, her Life Points will be depleted!]

"Battle!" Yuto exclaimed. "Terminate Mace, attack Ruri directly!"

"I activate the Trap Card Ardor Melody!" Ruri shouted. "Through its effect, I can negate an opponent's Monster's direct attack! Then, I can deal 300 points of damage to my opponent for every "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monster in my Graveyard! There are two such Monsters, meaning you'll receive 600 points of damage!"

A semi-transparent barrier appeared around Ruri following her words, blocking Terminate Mace's attack. Immediately afterwards, a stream of sound waves erupted from her Trap Card, striking Yuto and causing him to grimace.

Yuto – LP: 4000→3400

[Nice!] Melissa cheered. [Ruri-chan stopped Yuto's attack and dealt some damage of her own! This songbird won't be caught so easily, Yuto!]

"Don't I know it…" Yuto let out a small smile. "I place a card face-down and end my turn. At this moment, Wraith Crossbow's effect activates. If it was used to destroy "Phantom Knights" Xyz Monsters, I can draw a card from my Deck for every destroyed Monster during the End Phase. Wraith Crossbow's effect destroyed two Monsters, meaning I can draw two cards from my Deck."

"My turn!" Ruri announced. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Rank-Up-Magic Migration Force. Through its effect, if I control no Monsters while my opponent does, I can Special Summon a "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monster from my Graveyard and use it as material to Xyz Summon a "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monster that's one Rank higher than it. I will bring back Chorus Mockingbird and use it to reconstruct the Overlay Network!"

As Chorus Mockingbird emerged from a portal and turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Ruri chanted.

"Assembled voices echoing in the night! Come together and let your beautiful melody resound above the cries of the battlefield! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Show yourself, Rank 2! Lyrical Luscinia – Swarm Jackdaw (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/R: 2/OU: 1)!"

Swarm Jackdaw appeared on Ruri's field, letting out a resonant screech.

"Due to Topaz Prinia's Pendulum Effect, I will draw a card from my Deck." Ruri said. "Then, I activate Topaz Prinia's second Pendulum Effect. Once while this card is face-up on my Pendulum Zone, I can banish a "Rank-Up-Magic" Spell Card from my Graveyard to add another "Rank-Up-Magic" Spell Card from my Deck to my hand. I will banish Migration Force to add Rank-Up-Magic Flutter Force from my Deck to my hand."

"Another Rank-Up-Magic card?" Allen said. "Does she intend to go to Rank 3? Well, if she wants to beat Yuto's Monster, I guess she has to do that."

"I'm not so sure." Byron said while rubbing his chin. "Without knowing the full capabilities of Yuto's Rank 8, that would be unwise. As such, what she's probably aiming for first is…"

"I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Swarm Jackdaw's effect." Ruri declared. "Through it, I—"

"I know full well what its effect does, which is why I won't let you use it." Yuto cut off Ruri's words. "I activate Terminate Mace's effect. Once during either player's turn, when an opponent's Monster activates its effect, I can detach an Overlay Unit from Terminate Mace in order to negate that effect, destroy that Monster and have both players draw a card."

Following Yuto's words, Terminate Mace swung its weapon, unleashing a massive torrent of blue flames that enveloped Swarm Jackdaw and vaporized it.

"I knew you would do something like that." Ruri smirked. "And I was ready for it. Since a "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monster was destroyed, I can activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Rank-Up-Magic Flutter Force. Through its effect, I can Special Summon a "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monster from my Extra Deck that is one Rank higher than the destroyed Monster and attach both it and this card as materials to it. Come forth, Lyrical Luscinia – March Cardinal (ATK: 500/DEF: 0/R: 3/OU: 2)!"

March Cardinal appeared on Ruri's field, generating a small whirlwind as it flapped its wings.

"Thanks to Zircon Dunnock's Pendulum Effect, March Cardinal's attack is doubled since it has two Overlay Units attached to it (March Cardinal ATK: 500→1000)." Ruri said. "Now, let's battle! March Cardinal, attack Yuto directly!"

March Cardinal flapped its wings, unleashing a stream of flames that enveloped Yuto and caused him to let out a cry of pain.

Yuto – LP: 3400→2400

"At this moment, March Cardinal's effect activates." Ruri continued. "Since it inflicted battle damage to my opponent, I can reduce the attack of all Monsters my opponent control by an amount equal to twice that damage. You took 1000 points of damage, meaning your Terminate Mace loses 2000 attack!"

March Cardinal let out a piercing screech following Yuto's words, with several cracks appearing on Terminate Mace's armor as a result of it.

(Terminate Mace ATK: 2900→900)

"Furthermore, the effect of Lyrical Luscinia – Kyanite Goldfinch (Wind/Winged Beast/Effect/ATK: 0/DEF: 100/LV: 1) in my hand activates." Ruri declared. "If my opponent received damage from a "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster, I can Special Summon it and make its attack equal to twice the amount of damage my opponent received. Come, Kyanite Goldfinch!"

A female anthropomorphic bird with an amethyst-colored body, which had several dark blue gems attached to it, appeared on Ruri's field.

(Kyanite Goldfinch ATK: 0→2000)

"The battle continues!" Ruri exclaimed. "Destroy Terminate Mace, Kyanite Goldfinch!"

"I won't let you!" Yuto shouted. "I activate the Trap Card Phantom Knights Lost Vambrace! Through its effect, I can target a Monster my opponent controls and have it lose 600 attack, and then I can Special Summon this card as a Monster and prevent all "Phantom Knights" Monsters I control from being destroyed by battle! Come, Lost Vambrace (ATK: 600/DEF: 0/LV: 2)!"

Lost Vambrace appeared on Yuto's field, unleashing a dark aura from its arms that enveloped Kyanite Goldfinch.

(Kyanite Goldfinch ATK: 2000→1400)

"Even so, my Monster's attack is still higher than yours!" Ruri pointed out. "Which means that you'll still take the damage!"

Following her words, Kyanite Goldfinch struck Terminate Mace. While it failed to destroy it, the ensuing shockwave sent Yuto skidding backwards.

Yuto – LP: 2400→1900

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Ruri said. "Not bad, eh, Yuto?"

"Not bad at all." Yuto smiled. "That's why, I have to do my best so as not to fall behind. It's my turn! Draw! I activate the Spell Card Rank-Down-Magic Phantom Knights Rite, whose effect allows me to target a "Phantom Knights" Xyz Monster on the field and Special Summon a Dark-attribute Xyz Monster whose Rank is lower than that Monster's by using it as material. I will use Terminate Mace to reconstruct the Overlay Network!"

As Terminate Mace turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuto chanted.

"Rebellious spirit of war! Hold your unwavering nobility high in the face of adversity and advance upon the path leading to victory! Xyz Summon! Awaken, Rank 6! Phantom Knights Chipped Lance (ATK: 2800/DEF: 2600/R: 6/OU: 1)!"

Chipped Lance appeared on Yuto's field amidst a storm of blue flames, brandishing its weapon in a menacing manner.

"Thanks to its effect, Phantom Knights Rite is attached as an Overlay Unit to the summoned Monster (Chipped Lance OU: 1→2)." Yuto stated. "Then, I activate the Spell Card Phantom Knights Emergence, whose effect allows me to check the top card of my Deck, and if it's a "Phantom Knights" Monster, I can Special Summon it and make the Level of another "Phantom Knights" Monster on my field equal to that Monster's Level. Any other card will be sent to the Graveyard and I will take 800 points of damage. Let's see whether lady luck will smile at me or not."

Yuto drew a card from his Deck and showed it to Ruri with a small smile.

"I drew Phantom Knights Ragged Gloves." Yuto said. "As such, I will Special Summon it (ATK: 1000/DEF: 500/LV: 3) and make Lost Vambrace's Level equal to its Level!"

Ragged Gloves materialized on Yuto's field next to Lost Vambrace, with the latter being surrounded by a bluish aura.

(Lost Vambrace LV: 2→3)

"I Overlay my two Level 3 Monsters!" As his two Monsters turned into streams of light and were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuto chanted for the second time in a row. "From the mists of darkness, the warrior of rebellion will now be unleashed! Strike fear in your enemies' hearts! Xyz Summon! Appear now, Rank 3! Phantom Knights Tainted Voulge (ATK: 2100/DEF: 1300/R: 3/OU: 2)!"

Tainted Voulge appeared on Yuto's field next to Chipped Lance.

"Thanks to Ragged Gloves' effect, Tainted Voulge gains 1000 attack (Tainted Voulge ATK: 2100→3100)." Yuto announced. "Next, I activate Chipped Lance's effect, detaching an Overlay Unit to destroy March Cardinal!"

"I activate March Cardinal's effect!" Ruri declared. "By detaching an Overlay Unit, I can prevent its destruction!"

"In that case, I detach an Overlay Unit from Tainted Voulge to activate its effect." Yuto continued. "Through it, I can inflict damage to my opponent equal to the number of "Phantom Knights" cards in my Graveyard multiplied by 200 and increase my Monster's attack by the same amount. There are four such cards in my Graveyard, meaning you'll receive 800 points of damage. Death Coil!"

Tainted Voulge pointed its weapon at Ruri, unleashing a mass of dark energy that struck her and caused her to let out a cry of pain.

Ruri – LP: 2600→1800

(Tainted Voulge ATK: 3100→3900)

"Battle!" Yuto exclaimed. "Chipped Lance, attack March Cardinal! Grim Thrust!"

"I activate March Cardinal's effect once again!" Ruri shouted. "By detaching an Overlay Unit, I can prevent its destruction! In addition, I can increase its attack by an amount equal to the difference in Ranks multiplied by 100! Since that difference is 3, my Monster gains 300 attack!"

Chipped Lance charged forward while brandishing its lance, only for it to be deflected by March Cardinal's wings, sending Chipped Lance tumbling down. At the same time, March Cardinal was surrounded by a fiery aura.

(March Cardinal ATK: 1000→1300)

"However, your Monster is defenseless now." Yuto pointed out. "Finish it off, Tainted Voulge! Wraith Uprising!"

[Tainted Voulge's attack is 3900, while March Cardinal's attack is only 1300!] Nico exclaimed. [If this attack goes through, Kurosaki Ruri's Life Points will be extinguished!]

"Naïve, Yuto!" Ruri said. "I activate the Continuous Trap Card Lyrical Luscinia – Aerial Maneuver and equip it to March Cardinal! Through its effect, March Cardinal cannot be destroyed by battle or card effects and all damage from battles involving it is reduced to 0! In exchange, it cannot attack or activate its effects!"

Tainted Voulge swung its weapon following Ruri's words, only for a semi-transparent barrier to appear around March Cardinal and shield it from its blow.

"That was close…" Sayaka let out a sigh of relief. "If she didn't have that Trap, Ruri would have probably lost. It's a shame that March Cardinal is useless now…"

"Not completely useless." Byron said. "It can still be used as a stepping stone to a higher Rank. Yuto knows that well, which is why he tried to get rid of it. Shame it didn't work out for him."

"Nothing else I can do for now…" Yuto muttered. "I end my turn."

"My turn!" Ruri announced. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Rank-Up-Magic Luscinia Force, using March Cardinal as material to reconstruct the Overlay Network!"

As March Cardinal turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Ruri chanted.

"Lone twitter in the blackest night! Take flight now and guide the souls of the fallen warriors to the promised afterlife! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Soar, Rank 4! Lyrical Luscinia – Oratorio Raven (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/R: 4/OU: 1)!"

Oratorio Raven materialized on Ruri's field.

"Since my opponent controls a Special Summoned Monster, Luscinia Force's effect allows me to attach a Level 1 "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster from my Graveyard to Oratorio Raven as an Overlay Unit." Ruri declared. "I will attach Cobalt Sparrow (Oratorio Raven OU: 1→2). Moreover, Topaz Prinia's Pendulum Effect allows me to draw a card from my Deck. Then, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Flock to me, Lyrical Luscinia – Azurite Magpie (ATK: 100/DEF: 0/LV: 1) and Lyrical Luscinia – Larimar Finch (ATK: 100/DEF: 0/LV: 1)!"

Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Monsters upon landing on Ruri's field.

"Azurite Magpie's effect activates, allowing me to draw cards from my Deck equal to the number of Overlay Units attached to Oratorio Raven, in this case two." Ruri continued. "Larimar Finch's effect also activates, allowing me to Special Summon a Level 1 "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster from my Graveyard. Revive, Iolite Chough!"

A portal appeared on Ruri's field, with Iolite Chough emerging from it.

"Iolite Chough's effect activates." Ruri stated. "Thanks to it, I can draw cards from my Deck equal to the number of other "Lyrical Luscinia" Monsters on my field, in this case four. Then, I activate the Spell Card Lyrical Luscinia – Habitat, whose effect allows me to shuffle a "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster on my field back to the Deck and Special Summon a different "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster from my Deck. I will return Iolite Chough and Special Summon Lyrical Luscinia – Sodalite Wagtail (Wind/Winged Beast/Effect/ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 1)!"

A female anthropomorphic Monster with a russet-colored body and several gems attached to it appeared on Ruri's field.

"I Overlay my four Level 1 Monsters!" As her four Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Ruri chanted once again. "The beautiful songbird echoing across the vast sky! May your voice become a rallying cry for your comrades! Take flight, Rank 1! Lyrical Luscinia – Recite Starling (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/R: 1/OU: 4)!"

Recite Starling appeared on Ruri's field next to Oratorio Raven.

"Thanks to Sodalite Wagtail's effect, a "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monster that uses it as Xyz Material gains 300 attack for every material used to summon it (Recite Starling ATK: 0→1200)." Ruri stated. "In addition, Zircon Dunnock's effect will double that attack (Recite Starling ATK: 1200→2400). Then, Recite Starling's effect activates, allowing me to increase the attack and defense of a Monster on the field by 300 for every material attached to this card. Of course, I will increase Oratorio Raven's attack and defense (Oratorio Raven ATK: 0→1200/DEF: 0→1200)."

"I'm sorry, but I won't let things go the way you wish." Yuto declared. "I activate the Continuous Trap Card Phantom Fog Blade, whose effect allows me to target a Monster on your field in order to negate its effects, prevent it from attacking and preventing it from being targeted for attacks. I will target your Oratorio Raven!"

A sword with an ethereal blade shot out of Yuto's card, striking Oratorio Raven and generating shadow tendrils that bound it.

"You're really not making this easy." Ruri let out a small smile. "Then, how about this? Since I control two "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monsters, I can activate the Spell Card Lyrical Luscinia – War Cry. Through its effect, I can destroy all face-up cards on my opponent's field, but I must skip my Battle Phase in exchange."

Following Ruri's words, a massive soundwave erupted from her card, vaporizing all face-up cards on Yuto's field and leaving his field bare.

[Oh my, that was a nasty strike!] Melissa announced. [Yuto might have been able to prevent Ruri-chan from attacking, but he wasn't able to stop her from wiping his field clean! This could spell trouble for the young Xyz Duelist!]

"Since "Phantom Knights" Monsters on my field were destroyed, I can Special Summon this card from my hand." Yuto said. "Come, Phantom Knights Fragile Armor (ATK: 1000/DEF: 2000/LV: 4) in defense mode!"

Fragile Armor materialized on Yuto's field.

"I place two cards face-down and end my turn." Ruri said.

"It's my turn!" Yuto announced. "Draw! I activate the effect of Dread Escutcheon in my Graveyard, which allows me to switch all defense position "Phantom Knights" Monsters on my field in attack position and Special Summon it. Come, Phantom Knights Dread Escutcheon (Dark/Warrior/ATK: 0/DEF: 2000/LV: 4)!"

A Monster clad in tattered black armor with blue flames coming out of its cracks, which held an escutcheon with the emblem of the Phantom Knights engraved on it, emerged from a portal and landed on Yuto's field.

"I Overlay the Level 4 Dread Escutcheon and Fragile Armor!" As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuto chanted. "Formed from pitch-black darkness, to fight those foolish enough to oppose it with its treacherous fangs! Now, descend! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 4! Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/R: 4/OU: 2)!"

Yuto's ace Monster materialized amidst a storm of lightning bolts, letting out a furious howl.

[Here it is!] Nico announced. [Yuto's ace Monster, Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon, has made an appearance! Let's see how he intends to use it to overcome Kurosaki Ruri's formation!]

"I activate the Spell Card Phantom Knights Inheritance Ceremony." Yuto stated. "Through its effect, I will send three "Phantom Knights" Monsters from my Deck to the Graveyard to Special Summon two different "Phantom Knights" Monsters from my Graveyard that have the same Level. Revive, Silent Boots and Stained Greaves!"

A fissure appeared on Yuto's field, with his two Monsters climbing out of it.

"I Overlay my two Level 3 Monsters!" As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy and were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuto chanted for the second time. "Sorrowful soul locked within the hollow shell! Absorb the laments of the fallen and avenge yourself upon your tormentors! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 3! Phantom Knights Hellforged Armor (Dark/Warrior/Xyz/Effect/ATK: 500/DEF: 2400/R: 3/OU: 2)!"

A Monster resembling pieces of pitch-black armor held together by streams of blue flames appeared on Yuto's field.

"I activate Hellforged Armor's effect." Yuto declared. "Once per turn, I can equip it to a Dark-attribute Xyz Monster on my field and increase its attack by 1000, along with transferring its Overlay Units to it. Of course, I choose Dark Rebellion as the target for that effect."

Following Yuto's words, the pieces of armor shot forward, attaching themselves to Dark Rebellion's limbs, torso and head, giving it an even more haunting appearance. At the same time, the Overlay Units that were orbiting Hellforged Armor began orbiting Dark Rebellion.

(Dark Rebellion ATK: 2500→3500/OU: 2→4)

"Next, I activate the effect Dark Rebellion gained from Hellforged Armor." Yuto continued. "Once per turn, I can detach an Overlay Unit from the equipped Monster to destroy a Monster on my opponent's field and deal 500 points of damage to them. I will destroy Recite Starling!"

One of the Overlay Units orbiting Dark Rebellion transformed into a massive fireball that shot forward and struck Recite Starling, vaporizing it and sending Ruri skidding backwards due to the ensuing shockwave.

Ruri – LP: 1800→1300

"Let's settle this!" Yuto exclaimed. "Battle! Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon, attack Oratorio Raven! At this moment, the second effect of the equipped Hellforged Armor activates! When the equipped Monster battles an opponent's Monster, that Monster's effects are negated until the Battle Phase's end! Go, Dark Rebellion! Lightning Disobey of Revolt!"

"Not so fast!" Ruri shouted. "I activate the Trap Card Sacrifice Maneuver, whose effect allows me to send a "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster from my Deck to the Graveyard in order to prevent Oratorio Raven's destruction and reduce the damage to 0!"

Dark Rebellion charged forward, its mandible surrounded by a storm of energy, but failed to reach Oratorio Raven due to a semi-transparent barrier that appeared around it and blocked the dragon's attack.

"In that case…!" Yuto ran towards the lava river and jumped, landing on top of a nearby rock formation. Jumping from rock formation to rock formation, Yuto chanced upon an Action Card and grabbed it with swift moves. "Just what I needed. I activate the Action Spell Wonder Chance, whose effect allows Dark Rebellion to attack once again!"

"But just like before, you'll fail!" Ruri declared. "I activate the Trap Card Overlay Fort! Thanks to its effect, if an Xyz Monster I control is attacked, I can detach an Overlay Unit from it to negate that attack! As such, I will detach an Overlay Unit from Oratorio Raven to negate Dark Rebellion's attack!"

"You made some good preparations to stop me in my tracks." Yuto let out a lopsided smile. "Before I knew it, you became stronger, Ruri."

"I've said it before and I'll say it again." Ruri said. "I don't intend to be protected by you or my brother all the time. That's why I became stronger. I'll make sure to show you the full extent of my strength in the coming turn."

"Then, bring it on, Ruri." Yuto said. "Remember though, you're not the only one who's taken new steps forward. I end my turn with that."

"My turn!" Ruri announced. "Draw! I activate the Quick-Play Spell Rank-Up-Magic Flight Force! Through its effect, I will use Oratorio Raven to reconstruct the Overlay Network!"

"Eh?" Sayaka was astonished. "Ruri can reach Rank 5 now? I didn't know about that…"

"This could spell trouble for Yuto." Kaito commented. "Ruri's Xyz Monsters are already quite formidable. If a Rank 5 comes out…"

As Oratorio Raven turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Ruri chanted.

"Resounding song transcending the boundaries of spacetime! Awaken the slumbering legends and take flight towards a brand-new day! Xyz Summon! Descend now, Rank 5! Lyrical Luscinia – Rhapsody Rook (Wind/Winged Beast/Xyz/Effect/ATK: 1000/DEF: 0/R: 5/OU: 2)!"

A female anthropomorphic bird clad in a dark blue dress with golden armor pieces attached to it, which had two sets of blade-shaped wings growing from its torso, appeared on Ruri's field.

"Rhapsody Rook…" Yuto muttered. "This is the new power you gained, eh, Ruri…?"

"Thanks to the Pendulum Effects of Topaz Prinia and Zircon Dunnock, I will draw a card from my Deck and double Rhapsody Rook's attack since it has two Overlay Units attached to it (Rhapsody Rook ATK: 1000→2000)." Ruri stated. "Now, let's battle! Due to its effect, Rhapsody Rook can attack directly while it has Overlay Units! Do it, Rhapsody Rook!"

"I activate the effect of Chipped Lance in my Graveyard!" Yuto declared. "By banishing it, I can reduce the battle damage to 0 and draw a card from my Deck!"

Following Yuto's words, Rhapsody Rook charged at him, only for the specter of Chipped Lance to appear before it and block its attack, forcing it backwards.

"Moreover, the effect of Phantom Knights Tear Scale that was sent to the Graveyard through Inheritance Ceremony activates." Yuto continued. "When a "Phantom Knights" card is banished from my Graveyard, I can Special Summon it. Come, Tear Scale (Dark/Warrior/Effect/ATK: 600/DEF: 1600/LV: 3) in defense mode!"

A Monster resembling a suit of armor that was missing its lower half and had blue flames coming out of it instead appeared on Yuto's field.

"Not bad, but not enough, I'm afraid." Ruri let out a sly smirk. "Rhapsody Rook's effect activates! When it attacks my opponent directly, I can banish a Monster from their field and deal damage to them equal to half its attack or defense on the field! Of course, I will banish Dark Rebellion and deal damage to you equal to half its attack!"

Rhapsody Rook flapped its wings, unleashing several crescent-shaped energy blades that shredded Dark Rebellion and struck Yuto, sending him tumbling backwards as he let out a cry of pain.

Yuto – LP: 1900→150

[Yuto has received massive damage and has just lost his ace Monster!] Melissa exclaimed. [Ruri-chan's Monster is very fearsome indeed!]

"I'm not done yet." Ruri said. "Thanks to its effect, Rhapsody Rook can attack twice per Battle Phase. Now, let's put an end to this, Yuto! Rhapsody Rook, attack him directly once again and wipe out his remaining Life Points!"

"I activate the effect of Phantom Knights Tarnish Sabaton (Dark/Warrior/Effect/ATK: 800/DEF: 1400/LV: 3) in my hand!" Yuto declared. "By sending it to the Graveyard, I can negate your Monster's attack!"

Dark mist enveloped Yuto following his words, shielding him from Rhapsody Rook's attack.

"Almost there, but not quite, eh?" Ruri remarked. "I end my turn. At least, I was able to remove Dark Rebellion from the field. With this, you'll be hard-pressed to bring out its evolved forms, no?"

"Don't underestimate me, Ruri." Yuto spoke with a confident expression. "You think I hadn't made any preparations for such a situation? I'll go as far as to say that this was your last chance to defeat me."

"That's a bold claim." Ruri said. "Let's see if you can back it up."

"With pleasure." Yuto said. "It's my turn! Draw! I activate the effect of Tarnish Sabaton in my Graveyard. Since it was sent there by its own effect, I can banish a "Phantom Knights" Monster from my Graveyard, in this case Fragile Armor, to Special Summon it!"

A portal appeared on Yuto's field, with a Monster resembling the lower half of a knight's armor surrounded by blue flames emerging from it.

"I activate the Spell Card Phantom Knights' Promotion to increase the Level of all "Phantom Knights" Monsters I control by 1 (Tarnish Sabaton, Tear Scale LV: 3→4)." Yuto continued. "Then, I Overlay my two Level 4 Monsters!"

As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy and were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuto chanted.

"Proud knight that has traversed ten thousand battlefields! Take the strength of the fierce avian hunters within your body and rise to new heights! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 4! Raider's Knight (Dark/Warrior/Xyz/Effect/ATK: 2000/DEF: 0/R: 4/OU: 2)!"

A Monster resembling an armored knight holding a lance and riding a mechanical horse with several tubes that shot blue flames extending from it appeared on Yuto's field.

"That card…" Shun muttered with a small smile. "That takes me back…"

"Raider's Knight…?" Ruri frowned. "That's not a "Phantom Knights" Monster or something associated with Dark Rebellion. Either way, it doesn't look like it's an opponent for Rhapsody Rook."

"It might not be, but what's coming next will definitely be more than a match." Yuto declared. "I activate Raider's Knight's effect. By detaching an Overlay Unit from this card, I can use it as material to Xyz Summon an Xyz Monster that's one Rank higher than it. However, I must destroy that Monster during my opponent's next End Phase. I will use Raider's Knight as material to reconstruct the Overlay Network!"

As Raider's Knight turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuto chanted for the second time in a row.

"Fangs of rebellion that dwell in the deep darkness! Be clad in the armor of catastrophe and awaken a new power! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 5! Arc Rebellion Xyz Dragon (Dark/Dragon/Xyz/Effect/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500/R: 5/OU: 2)!"

A Monster resembling Dark Rebellion, only with armor attached to its body and mechanical wings protruding from its back, emerged on Yuto's field while discharging blue flames from the tips of its wings.

[This is!] Nico exclaimed. [A previously unseen form of Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon has made its advent here! If anyone still thinks this tournament won't be filled with unexpected twists and turns, you'd better change your mind fast!]

"Looks like you also found a new path towards even more power." Ruri smiled. "As expected of Yuto. However, do you think this will be enough to take down my Monster? Rhapsody Rook is quite sturdy like all my Monsters."

"That doesn't matter one bit." Yuto said. "I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Arc Rebellion's effect. Thanks to it, it gains attack equal to the original attack of all other Monsters on the field, and since it has a Dark-attribute Xyz Monster attached to it, the effects of all other face-up Monsters on the field are negated. Do it, Arc Rebellion! Arc Reversal!"

The flames that were emitted from Arc Rebellion's wings increased in intensity as they enveloped Rhapsody Rook, taking the shape of bindings and wrapping around its body. At the same time, a black aura surrounded Arc Rebellion.

(Arc Rebellion ATK: 3000→4000)

"This is the end!" Yuto exclaimed. "Battle! Arc Rebellion Xyz Dragon, destroy Rhapsody Rook! Blazing Disobey of Crescent!"

Arc Rebellion's mandible was surrounded by raging flames as it charged forward, piercing through Rhapsody Rook's body and destroying it, with the ensuing shockwave sending Ruri flying backwards and crashing on a nearby rook.

Ruri – LP: 1300→0

Yuto: WIN

[It's over! The seventh match has concluded with Yuto's victory!] Nico exclaimed. [This means he claims the seventh seat in the best eight!]

[Aw, it's such a shame that Ruri-chan lost.] Melissa said with a dejected expression, but cheered up afterwards. [Still, it was a magnificent Duel! I thought I had seen everything during my tenure as the announcer for the Friendship Cup and during the Dimensional War, but this high-level tournament keeps showing me how small my worldview was.]

Meanwhile, Yuto approached the fallen Ruri and extended his hand. Ruri took it with a smile as he helped her up.

"I lost…" Ruri said with a small pout. "Yuto is really strong. I thought I had gotten better, but I still can't reach you or my brother…"

"No, you're plenty strong already, Ruri." Yuto said. "You cornered me pretty good during your last turn and would have taken me down if you had squeezed in one more attack. Not to mention, you can still grow as a Duelist. Truth be told, I'm a bit scared to see what you'll come up with in the future…"

"You're not just saying that to make me feel better?"

"I would never." Yuto said as he kissed Ruri's brow, causing her to blush. "Believe me when I say your strength is the real deal. Shun would say the same if he was here."

"Thanks, Yuto. This means a lot to me."

The sound of the approaching hoverplane interrupted the conversation between. As it slowly descended, Ruri turned to Yuto and kissed him on the check.

"A good luck charm." Ruri said. "I wish you the best with the rest of the tournament, Yuto. I'll be cheering for you and my brother."

As Ruri boarded the hoverplane, which took off towards Maiami Stadium, Nico's voice was heard again.

[Now then, there's only one Duel remaining to decide the last Duelist who'll enter the best eight! Sakaki Yuya and Yugo are about to wage a fierce battle in the Jungle area for that precious spot! Keep your eyes peeled, everyone, for I have a feeling we're in for a show!]


Meanwhile, at the Jungle area…

"You seem awfully thrilled there, Yugo."

Yuya commented upon taking note of Yugo's attitude. The young Synchro Duelist had a wide grin on his face and seemed to just barely restraining himself from jumping up and down on his D-Wheel.

"Why wouldn't I be?" Yugo said. "I get to fight you, the guy who beat Jack and became the new Duel King. If I beat you here, that means I can become Duel King and fulfil my dream! Yes, I'll prove once and for all that I'm strong enough to stand by her…"

Yuya was puzzled by Yugo's last words, which were too quiet for him to catch. However, before he had the chance to question him, Melissa's voice was heard.

[The last Duel of the preliminaries will be conducted as a Riding Duel!] Melissa announced with evident excitement. [Not to mention, our last two participants are among the key figures that were involved in Zarc's defeat! I couldn't think of a better way to conclude the preliminary round and get everyone pumped for the next round!]

"It's finally Yuya's turn!" Shuzo said. "Show everyone the strength of You Show's ace and the inheritor of Sakaki Yusho's Entertainment Style!"

"You'd better not show us a miserable Duel, Yuya." Yoko said with an intense look on her face. "I won't forgive you if you get eliminated from the get-go."

"Now that it's come to this, we're counting on you, Yugo!" Crow shouted. "Engrave into everyone's hearts the tenacity and strength of the Synchro Dimension's Duelists!"

"Yugo…" Rin muttered with her hands clasped together. "Do your best."

[Both Duelists are raring to go from the looks of it! Let's not keep them waiting anymore and get this show on the road!]

As Melissa said so, a large number of trees erupted from the ground one after the other, forming a makeshift course that circled the entire Jungle area in a manner similar to the previous Riding Duels. Yuya and Yugo took this as their cue to straighten their D-Wheels and put on their helmets.

[Duel mode, on. Auto-pilot, standby.]

Both D-Wheels materialized their energy blades as their riders revved them up. At the same time, a countdown appeared before the two Duelists. Once it reached zero, Melissa shouted.

[Riding Duel, acceleration!]

Both Duelists shot forward following these words and shouted together.

[Duel!]

Yuya – LP: 4000

Yugo – LP: 4000

[It has begun!] Melissa exclaimed. [Now, which one of these two warriors will take the first corner and the first turn!?]

"Of course, that's going to be me! Like Hell I'll lose in a contest of speed!"

Yugo declared thus as he accelerated, passing Yuya and dashing ahead. Yuya did his best to catch up, but he had trouble concentrating on the course due to the thick foliage that was hanging from the overhead branches partially obstructing his vision and distracting him. Yugo, on the other hand, paid no heed to them as he evaded them with deft movements, taking the first corner with ease.

"Alright!" Yugo cheered. "The first turn is mine! Since I control no Monster, I can Special Summon this card from my hand. Come, Speedroid Passing Glider (ATK: 2200/DEF: 2000/LV: 5/SC: 3)!"

Passing Glider materialized on Yugo's field.

"Next, I summon Speedroid Block-n-Roll (Wind/Machine/Effect/ATK: 1000/DEF: 1800/LV: 4)!"

A mechanical Monster resembling an electric guitar appeared on Yugo's field.

"Since I control at least one Wind-attribute Monster, I can Special Summon this card from my hand." Yugo continued. "Come, Speedroid CarTurbo (Wind/Machine/Tuner/Effect/ATK: 800/DEF: 1200/LV: 3)!"

A Monster resembling a card with an engine attached to it appeared on Yugo's field.

"Moreover, since I control a Tuner Monster, I can Special Summon this card as well." Yugo stated. "Come forth, Speedroid Bendomino (Wind/Machine/Tuner/Effect/ATK: 400/DEF: 100/LV: 1)!"

A Monster resembling a mechanical curved domino piece appeared on Yugo's field next to his other three Monsters.

[Yugo has brought out four Monsters from the get-go!] Nico announced. [It looks like he's going all out from the start!]

"I tune the Level 4 Block-N-Roll with the Level 3 CarTurbo!" As Block-N-Roll turned into four stars and CarTurbo turned into three rings surrounding them, Yugo chanted. "Peerless, transcendental blade! With a flash of light, sever the enemies swarming before you! Synchro Summon! Show yourself, Level 7! Highspeedroid PLS Sword (Wind/Machine/Synchro/Effect/ATK: 2600/DEF: 1000/LV: 7)!"

A mechanical Monster with a body made up of four oversized blades stuck together in a way that formed a makeshift drill appeared on Yugo's field.

"Block-N-Roll's effect activates." Yugo said. "If this card was used as a Synchro Material, I can Special Summon a Speedroid Token with the same Level as that of the summoned Synchro Monster. Come, Speedroid Token (Wind/Machine/ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 7)!"

A small robot-shaped Monster appeared on Yugo's field.

"Next, I tune the Level 5 Passing Glider with the Level 1 Bendomino!" As Passing Glide turned into five stars and Bendomino turned into a single ring surrounding them, Yugo chanted for the second time in a row. "Magical sword with the form of a cross! Use your power to rend all enemies! Synchro Summon! Appear now, Level 6! Highspeedroid Maken Dama (ATK: 2200/DEF: 1600/LV: 6)!"

Maken Dama appeared on Yugo's field next to PLS Sword.

"Two Synchro Monsters in a single turn, eh?" Tokumatsu smirked. "That kid is really motivated."

"I activate Maken Dama's effect!" Yugo declared. "Through it, I will banish Block-N-Roll from my Graveyard to deal 500 points of damage to you, Yuya!"

A beam of energy was shot from the tip of Maken Dama's body, striking Yuya and causing him to wince from the pain.

Yuya – LP: 4000→3500

"I'm not done yet." Yugo said. "PLS Sword's effect activates! Once per turn, when you receive battle or effect damage from a "Speedroid" Monster I control, I can inflict the same amount of damage to you!"

Following Yugo's words, one of the blades making up PLS Sword's body detached from it and shot forward, striking Yuya's D-Wheel and sending it spinning out of control for a short while.

Yuya – LP: 3500→3000

"I activate the Spell Card Velocity Trigger, whose effect allows me to destroy a Level 7 or higher "Speedroid" Monster and draw two cards from my Deck." Yugo said. "I will destroy my Speedroid Token. Then, I will place a card face-down and end my turn."

[That was a very good start for Yugo, who brought out two strong Monsters and reduced his opponent's Life Points by a good amount!] Melissa said. [Now, let's see how Yuya will respond!]

"My turn!" Yuya announced. "Draw! If you're doing your best from the start, then I can't afford to fall behind, Yugo. Using the Scale 2 Entermate Odd-Eyes Knight (Dark/Warrior/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 2400/DEF: 1600/LV: 6/SC: 2) and the Scale 8 Entermate Odd-Eyes Unicorn (ATK: 100/DEF: 600/LV: 1/SC: 8), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

The two pillars of light appeared on Yuya's sides with a knight with dual-colored eyes, which was clad in red and gold armor, and Odd-Eyes Unicorn rising to their top.

"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 3 through 7." Yuya declared as he accelerated, approaching Yugo. "Swing, Pendulum of my Soul! Draw an arc of light across the ether! Pendulum Summon! Appear, Entermate Momentum Draco (Light/Dragon/Pendulum/Tuner/Effect/ATK: 800/DEF: 1300/LV: 3/SC: 4) and Timesword Magician (ATK: 1400/DEF: 0/LV: 3/SC: 2)!"

Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of an emerald-colored dragon with a serpentine body that was surrounded by several rainbow-colored energy rings and Timesword Magician upon landing on Yuya's field.

"Next, I summon Entermate Turn Toad (ATK: 0/DEF: 800/LV: 2/SC: 3)!"

Turn Toad appeared on Yuya's field next to his other two Monsters.

"I tune the Level 3 Timesword Magician and the Level 2 Turn Toad with the Level 3 Momentum Draco!" As Timesword Magician and Turn Toad turned into three and two stars respectively while Momentum Draco turned into three rings surrounding them, Yuya chanted. "Hero's blade that sets forth unyielding light! Awaken here and now along with a flash! Synchro Summon! Appear, Level 8! Magical Swordsman of Awakening, Enlightenment Paladin (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 8)!"

Enlightenment Paladin appeared on Yuya's field, brandishing its blades in a menacing manner.

"I activate Odd-Eyes Knight's Pendulum Effect." Yuya continued. "Once per turn, I can target a Dragon-type or Spellcaster-type Monster that was Special Summoned from the Extra Deck and increase its attack by an amount equal to the difference between our Life Points. As such, I will increase Enlightenment Paladin's attack (Enlightenment Paladin ATK: 2500→3500). Next, Momentum Draco's effect activates. If it was used as Synchro Material for the Synchro Summon of a Dragon-type or Spellcaster-type Monster while my opponent controls more Monsters than I do, I can banish it from my Extra Deck to draw a card from my Deck for every Synchro Material used in that Monster's Synchro Summon. As such, I will draw three cards."

"Nice!" Tatsuya cheered. "Not only Yuya-oniichan brought out a strong Monster, he also refilled his hand!"

"Go, Yuya-oniichan!" Futoshi shouted. "Give him a nasty case of the shivers~!"

"I activate the Spell Card Parallel World Alignment." Yuya declared. "Through its effect, I can target a Monster on my field that was Special Summoned from the Extra Deck in order to Special Summon a Monster with a different summoning type than the targeted Monster and a lower Level from my Extra Deck by ignoring its summoning conditions and treat it as having been summoned through the proper conditions. I will target the Level 8 Enlightenment Paladin to bring out this card! Show yourself, Odd-Eyes Oracle Dragon (Dark/Dragon/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7)!"

A Monster resembling Odd-Eyes Dragon, only with a white-colored body, a crown-shaped visor and several silver-colored armor pieces attached to it, appeared on Yuya's field.

"Battle!" Yuya exclaimed. "Enlightenment Paladin, destroy Highspeedroid PLS Sword!"

"PLS Sword's activates!" Yugo declared. "Once during either player's turn, when this card battles an opponent's Monster, I can destroy that Monster before damage calculation!"

Following Yugo's words, PLS Sword started spinning, deflecting Enlightenment Paladin's blades and sending it flying backwards. PLS Sword proceeded to charge forward, striking Enlightenment Paladin and shredding it to pieces.

"Tch, to think it had such an effect…" Yuya clicked his tongue in irritation. "In that case, Odd-Eyes Oracle Dragon will attack Highspeedroid Maken Dama!"

"That won't work either!" Yugo shouted. "I activate the Trap Card Afterburner Shock! Due to its effect, since a Monster you control attacks a "Speedroid" Monster with a lower Level than it, I can destroy your Monster and draw cards from my Deck equal to the difference in Levels, in this case one!"

An energy pulse erupted from Yugo's Trap Card, destroying the charging Oracle-Eyes.

"Not bad, but I still have an ace up my sleeve." Yuya smirked. "Oracle Dragon's effect activates. When this card is destroyed, I can Special Summon Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon from my hand, Deck, Graveyard or face-up from my Extra Deck, increase its attack by half the difference between our Life Points and prevent it from being destroyed by battle or card effects for this turn. Join us on the stage, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 2500→3000/DEF: 2000/LV: 7/SC: 4)!"

A portal appeared above Yuya, with Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon emerging from it as it let out a resonant roar.

"Your ace Monster has come out already, eh?" Yugo remarked. "Bring it on! I will crush it alongside you, Yuya!"

"We'll see about that." Yuya said. "Don't forget that my Battle Phase still continues. As such, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon will attack Highspeedroid PLS Sword! Spiral Strike Burst!"

A stream of crimson energy erupted from Odd-Eyes' mouth, striking Yugo's Monster.

"At this moment, Odd-Eyes' effect activates!" Yuya declared. "When it battles a Level 5 or higher Monster, the battle damage is doubled! Reaction Force!"

The stream of energy intensified following Yuya's words, overwhelming PLS Sword and vaporizing it. The ensuing shockwave from the explosion sent Yugo's D-Wheel briefly spinning out of control before he was able to stabilize it.

Yugo – LP: 4000→3200

"Nicely done, Yuya." Yuzu made a guts pose. "You managed to come out on top in this battle despite the rough start."

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Yuya said.

"As expected from the guy who defeated Zarc, you're a tough customer." Yugo remarked. "In that case, let's kick things up a notch. My turn! Draw! Using the Scale 1 Speedroid Ressha Kong (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1300/LV: 4/SC: 1) and the Scale 6 Speedroid Gacha Turtle (Wind/Machine/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 0/DEF: 2000/LV: 3/SC: 6), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

The two columns of light appeared on Yugo's field, with Ressha Kong and a mechanical Monster resembling a mix between a toy-vending machine and a turtle rising to their tops.

"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 2 through 5." Yugo declared. "Pendulum Summon! Dash forward, Speedroid Hexasaucer (ATK: 100/DEF: 1600/LV: 4/SC: 6) and Speedroid Karuta (ATK: 300/DEF: 500/LV: 2)!"

Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Monsters upon landing on Yugo's field.

"I tune the Level 4 Hexasaucer with the Level 2 Karuta!" As Hexasaucer turned into four stars and Karuta turned into two rings surrounding them, Yugo chanted. "With that ever-changing body of yours, soar across the boundless skies and surpass all enemies before you! Synchro Summon! Appear now, Level 6! Highspeedroid Rubik Sky Fighter (ATK: 2500/DEF: 1300/LV: 6)!"

The fighter plane made out of a large number of cubes appeared on Yugo's field.

"Karuta's effect activates, allowing me to draw a card from my Deck since it was used as a Synchro Material." Yugo continued. "In addition, Gacha Turtle's effect activates. Once during either player's turn, when a Wind-attribute Synchro Monster is Synchro Summoned successfully on my field, I can Special Summon a random Synchro Monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated. However, that Monster will be banished once it leaves the field. Since the only Synchro Monster in my Graveyard is PLS Sword, I will Special Summon it!"

Gacha Turtle opened its mouth wide, with a small capsule rolling out of it and landing on the field. Then, it burst open, with PLS Sword emerging from it.

"That effect allows Yugo to recycle and reuse his destroyed Synchro Monsters in a variety of ways." Yukio remarked with narrowed eyes. "This could be troublesome. Not to mention that Yuya is in serious trouble if Yugo's attacks go through."

"Battle!" Yugo exclaimed. "Rubik Sky Fighter, attack Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! At this moment, Rubik Sky Fighter's effect activates! When it battles an opponent's Monster while it's in attack position, I can reduce that Monster's attack by 300 for every "Speedroid" Monster I control! Since I control three such Monsters, your Odd-Eyes loses 900 attack (Odd-Eyes ATK: 3000→2100)! Do it, Rubik Sky Fighter! Variable Hailstorm!"

The cubes on the front part of Rubik Sky Fighter rearranged themselves into the form of twin cannons, unleashing two energy blasts that pierced through Odd-Eyes' body and destroyed it, with the ensuing shockwave causing Yuya to grimace.

Yuya – LP: 3000→2600

"Since an "Odd-Eyes" Monster was destroyed, I can activate the Trap Card Odd-Eyes Legacy." Yuya declared. "Through its effect, I can Special Summon a different "Odd-Eyes" Monster face-up from my Extra Deck or from my Graveyard. Furthermore, that Monster cannot be destroyed by battle for this turn and I take no damage from battles involving it. I choose to bring back Odd-Eyes Oracle Dragon!"

A portal appeared on Yuya's field, with Oracle Dragon emerging from it.

"With this, I cannot battle anymore…" Yugo frowned. "Then, I'll at least deal some more damage. I activate Maken Dama's effect, banishing CarTurbo from my Graveyard to deal 500 points of damage to you!"

A beam of energy erupted from Maken Dama's tip, striking Yuya's D-Wheel and causing it to wobble for a bit.

Yuya – LP: 2600→2100

"You may have escaped from me, but I'll corner you eventually." Yugo declared. "I'll definitely be the victor in this Duel! I end my turn."

"You seem very motivated today, Yugo." Yuya said as he brought his D-Wheel next to his. "More so than usual. Is the title of Duel King that important to you?"

"Damn right it is." Yugo responded. "That's the best way to prove to myself that I've indeed grown strong, stronger than the past weak me. But enough blabbering. We're not here to talk, but to Duel. Show me your full strength, Yuya; otherwise, there's no point in beating you!"

"That was the plan from the start!" Yuya said. "It's my turn!" Draw! During my Standby Phase, Oracle Dragon is sent to the Graveyard due to Odd-Eyes Legacy's final effect. Then, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Revive from the Extra Deck, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon and Timesword Magician! And from my hand, come, Entermate Silver Claw (ATK: 1800/DEF: 700/LV: 4/SC: 5), Entermate Odd-Eyes Minotaur (ATK: 1200/DEF: 1600/LV: 4/SC: 6) and Revenue Magician (ATK: 800/DEF: 1150/LV: 4/SC: 4)!"

Four beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Monsters upon landing on Yuya's field.

"Revenue Magician's effect activates." Yuya continued. "When it's Pendulum Summoned from my hand alongside other Pendulum Monsters, I can draw cards from my Deck for every Pendulum Monster on the field, in this case five, and then destroy this card. Then, I Overlay the Level 4 Odd-Eyes Minotaur and Silver Claw!"

As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuya chanted.

"Raging soul resting with the river of flames! Burn fiercely and extinguish all within your sight! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 4! Ferocious dragon with the burning heart, Blaze-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/R: 4/SC: 8/OU: 2)!"

The dragon with crimson and black armor attached to its body and wings made out of flame appeared on Yuya's field.

"I activate Odd-Eyes Knight's Pendulum Effect to increase Blaze-Eyes' attack (Blaze-Eyes ATK: 2500→3600)." Yuya stated. "Next, I release Timesword Magician to Advance Summon Entermate Trump Sorceress (ATK: 100/DEF: 2300/LV: 6/SC: 1)!"

Trump Sorceress appeared on Yuya's field, spinning its staff around in a graceful manner.

"I activate Trump Sorceress's effect, using it and Odd-Eyes Light Phoenix in my hand as materials to Fusion Summon!" As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuya chanted. "Arcane master of union! Become one with the immortal dichromatic firebird and give birth to a new life! Fusion Summon! Show yourself, Level 8! Entermate Odd-Eyes Metal Claw (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2000/LV: 8)!"

Odd-Eyes Metal Claw materialized on Yuya's field, brandishing its claws in a menacing manner.

[Sakaki Yuya splendidly uses Pendulum Summoning to fuel an Xyz and Fusion Summon!] Nico announced. [As expected from the progenitor of Pendulum! Using it to its full potential is as easy as breathing for him!]

"Trump Sorceress's second effect activates, allowing me to draw a card from my Deck since it was successfully used as material for a Fusion Summon." Yuya said. "Now, let's battle, Yugo! Odd-Eyes Metal Claw will attack Highspeedroid Maken Dama! At this moment, Odd-Eyes Metal Claw's effect activates, increasing the attack of all Monsters I control by 300 until the Battle Phase's end (Odd-Eyes ATK: 2500→2800, Blaze-Eyes ATK: 3600→3900, Metal Claw ATK: 3000→3300)!"

As Odd-Eyes Metal Claw prepared to attack, both Yuya and Yugo spotted an Action Card ahead of them. With matching motions, they both accelerated their D-Wheels, racing after it. Just as both Duelists were neck-and-neck, Yugo rammed Yuya's D-Wheel with just enough force to cause him to shoot past the Action Card, allowing Yugo to grab it.

"You're a thousand years too early to outmatch me in riding technique, Yuya!" Yugo said, but his expression fell shorty afterwards upon seeing what he had drawn. "Geh, it's the Action Trap Supply Drop, which forces me to send three cards from the top of my Deck to the Graveyard. This sucks…"

"Too bad your luck wasn't as good as your riding technique." Yuya smirked. "Now, Odd-Eyes Metal Claw's attack continues! Savage Spiral Grip!"

"Not so fast!" Yugo exclaimed. "I activate the effect of Bendomino in my Graveyard! During my opponent's Battle Phase, I can banish it to switch the battle positions of all Monsters on my field!"

Following Yugo's words, Odd-Eyes Metal Claw charged forward and tore Maken Dama to pieces with its claws that were surrounded by crimson energy. However, Yugo received no damage due to Maken Dama having switched to defense position alongside the rest of his Monsters.

"Not bad, but don't think you're safe just yet." Yuya said. "Blaze-Eyes' effect activates. When an "Odd-Eyes" or "Pendulum Dragon" Monster on my field destroys an opponent's Monster by battle, I can detach an Overlay Unit from this card to destroy another Monster on their field and inflict damage to them equal to half its original attack. I will destroy Rubik Sky Fighter. Burning Extinction!"

Blaze-Eyes howled as it stomped its feet on the ground, with a pillar of fire erupting underneath Rubik Sky Fighter and destroying it before striking Yugo and causing him to let out a cry of pain as he briefly lost control of his D-Wheel.

Yugo – LP: 3200→1950

"Eh?" Ayu seemed confused. "Why did Yuya-oniichan destroy Rubik Sky Fighter? PLS Sword had higher attack than it."

"Rubik Sky Fighter's effect makes it unable to be destroyed by battle while it's in defense position." Tatsuya explained. "That's why Yuya-oniichan destroyed it first. And if his next two attacks go through, he will win this!"

"Go, Yuya-oniichan!" Futoshi cheered. "Give that Yugo guy shivers he'll never forget~!"

"Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, attack Highspeedroid PLS Sword!" Yuya shouted. "Spiral Strike Burst!"

A wave of crimson energy erupted from Odd-Eyes' mouth, vaporizing PLS Sword with ease.

"With this, you're wide open!" Yuya said. "Go, Blaze-Eyes! Attack Yugo directly and finish this! Prominence Charge!"

"Naïve, Yuya!" Yugo exclaimed. "Have you forgotten about Ressha Kong's Pendulum Effect!? Thanks to it, I can Pendulum Summon during my opponent's Main or Battle Phase! Incarnations of unrivalled speed! Dash across the highway of light drawn by the Pendulum and pierce through past and future! High-Speed Pendulum! Revive from the Extra Deck, Passing Glider and Hexasaucer in defense mode!"

Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Hexasaucer and Passing Glider upon landing on Yugo's field.

[Oh, there's Yugo's unique Pendulum Summon, High-Speed Pendulum!] Melissa announced. [Looks like Yuya was a bit too hasty to announce his victory! With this, Yugo is still in the game!]

"A bit too hasty indeed…" Yuya smiled. "However, that's good. It would be an awful performance if it ended so quickly. Since you now have Monsters, Blaze-Eyes will destroy your Passing Glider, Yugo!"

Blaze-Eyes opened its mouth wide, unleashing a wave of flames that incinerated Passing Glider.

"With the Battle Phase's end, Odd-Eyes Metal Claw's effect ends, returning my Monsters' attack to normal." Yuya said. "I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"My turn!" Yugo announced. "Draw! First, I will Pendulum Summon! Dash forward, Speedroid Domino Butterfly (ATK: 100/DEF: 300/LV: 2/SC: 8) and Speedroid Tri-Eyed Dice (ATK: 300/DEF: 1500/LV: 3)!"

Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Monsters upon landing on Yugo's field.

"I tune the Level 4 Hexasaucer with the Level 3 Tri-Eyed Dice!" As Hexasaucer turned into four stars and Tri-Eyed Dice turned into three stars surrounding them, Yugo chanted. "Spread those wondrous and beautiful wings, and strike down your enemies at the speed of light! Synchro Summon! Appear now, Level 7! Clear Wing Synchro Dragon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7)!"

Yugo's ace Monster appeared on the field, letting out a resounding howl. At the same time, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon also began howling, with the two dragons glaring at each other."

"Looks like both dragons are very motivated to win by taking the other down." Yukio grinned as he watched the exchange between the two Monsters. "Things will surely get more intense for here on out."

"Gacha Turtle's Pendulum Effect activates." Yugo continued. "Thanks to it, I can Special Summon a random Synchro Monster from my Graveyard."

A small capsule rolled out of Gacha Turtle's mouth, bursting open as it landed on the field and revealing the form of Rubik Sky Fighter.

"Perfect." Yugo smirked. "I activate the Equip Spell Card Helldive Slasher of Whirlwind, equipping it to Clear Wing. Then, I tune the Level 6 Rubik Sky Fighter with the Level 2 Domino Butterfly!"

As Rubik Sky Fighter turned into six stars and Domino Butterfly turned into two rings surrounding them, Yugo chanted for the second time in a row.

"Proud ruler of the skies! Sweep down with the raging gale and deliver swift punishment to your enemies! Synchro Summon! Appear, Level 8! Highspeedroid Kitedrake (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2800/LV: 8)!"

The mechanical dragon with a serpentine body and several kites protruding from it appeared on Yugo's field.

"I activate Kitedrake's effect to destroy all other cards on the field." Yugo declared. "However, since a Level 5 or higher Monster is about to activate its effect, Clear Wing's effect activates. Thanks to it, I can negate that effect, destroy that Monster and have Clear Wing gain attack equal to that Monster's attack until the end of this turn. Dichroic Mirror!"

Waves of light erupted from Clear Wing's wings, enveloping Kitedrake and destroying it. At the same time, Clear Wing was surrounded by a green aura.

(Clear Wing ATK: 2500→5500)

"Battle!" Yugo roared. "Clear Wing Synchro Dragon, destroy Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! Helldive Slasher of Whirlwind!"

"I activate the Trap Card Iris Marvel!" Yuya exclaimed. "Through its effect, I can banish an "Odd-Eyes" Monster from my hand, Graveyard or face-up from my Extra Deck to halve all damage I receive for the rest of this turn! I choose to banish Odd-Eyes Minotaur to halve the damage!"

Clear Wing was surrounded by raging wings as it shot forward, piercing through Odd-Eyes' chest and destroying it, with Yuya almost being thrown of course due to the violent shockwave generated by the blast.

Yuya – LP: 2100→600

"The effect of the equipped Helldive Slasher of Whirlwind activates." Yugo declared. "When the equipped Monster destroys an opponent's Monster by battle, I can destroy all other Monsters on the field and draw a card from my Deck for every Monster that was destroyed on my opponent's side of the field. I'll take down your other two Monsters as well, Yuya!"

Several oversized tornadoes erupted from Clear Wing's body, shredding Odd-Eyes Metal Claw and Blaze-Eyes to pieces.

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Yugo said. "Also, thanks to the equipped Helldive Slasher of Whirlwind, Clear Wing retains the attack increase it received from its own effect."

[Thanks to his fierce offensive, Yugo has taken the lead in this Duel!] Nico exclaimed. [With a 5500 Clear Wing on the field, Sakaki Yuya will have his hands full if he wishes to overturn this situation!]

"It's my turn!" Yuya announced. "Draw! Since a "Pendulum Dragon" Monster was destroyed during the previous turn, I can Special Summon this card from my hand. Appear, the miraculous dragon with beautiful dichromatic eyes, Wonder-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (Dark/Dragon/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500/LV: 9/SC: 1)!"

A dragon with dual-colored eyes somewhat resembling Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, only clad in silver armor with red energy lines running through it and wings of multi-colored flames protruding from its back, appeared on Yuya's field, letting out a furious howl.

"Another evolved form of your Pendulum Dragon?" Yugo asked with a cramped smile. "Damn, that fellow of yours is full of surprises, Yuya!"

"In this situation, this is the worst surprise for you." Yuya smirked. "I activate Wonder-Eyes' effect! Once during either player's turn, I can target an opponent's Monster in order to negate its effects and prevent it from declaring an attack as long as Wonder-Eyes remains on the field! In addition, cards and effects cannot be activated in response to this effect! I choose to restrain your Clear Wing, Yugo! Miracle Bind!"

Wonder-Eyes' wings expanded, with flaming tendrils shooting out of them and binding Clear Wing.

"That effect is a perfect counter against Clear Wing's effect…" Yugo grimaced. "However, Clear Wing's attack is still higher!"

"Not for long." Yuya said. "I activate Wonder-Eyes' second effect. Once per turn, if I have cards in both Pendulum Zones, I can target a Monster on my opponent's field and have it lose attack equal to the sum of my cards' Scale Value multiplied by 400, while my Monster gains attack equal to half the amount of attack my opponent's Monster lost until the End Phase. In exchange, I cannot Pendulum Summon for this turn. I will target your Clear Wing once again. Pendulum Wonder!"

Two streams of energy shot out of the Pendulum cards on Yuya's Pendulum Zones, piercing through Clear Wing's body and circling around to be absorbed by the gem on Wonder-Eyes' chest.

(Clear Wing ATK: 5500→1500, Wonder-Eyes ATK: 3000→5000)

"Battle!" Yuya exclaimed. "Wonder-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, destroy Clear Wing Synchro Dragon! Wondrous Rising Burst!"

"I activate the Trap Card Tuner's Protection!" Yugo declared. "Thanks to its effect, when a Synchro Monster on my field is about to be destroyed, I can banish the Tuner Monster used for its summon from my Graveyard in order to prevent its destruction, reduce the damage to 0 and draw a card from my Deck. I will banish Tri-Eyed Dice to prevent Clear Wing's destruction!"

Wonder-Eyes was surrounded by raging flames as it charged forward, but struck a semi-transparent barrier that enveloped Clear Wing, preventing it from reaching Yugo's dragon.

"Figures…" Yuya remarked with a small sigh. "I place a card face-down and end my turn, with our Monsters' attack returning to normal."

"My turn!" Yugo announced. "Draw! I summon Speedroid Red-Eyed Dice (ATK: 100/DEF: 100/LV: 1)!"

Red-Eyed Dice materialized on Yugo's field.

"I tune the Level 7 Clear Wing Synchro Dragon with the Level 1 Red-Eyed Dice!" As Clear Wing turned into seven stars and Red-Eyed Dice turned into a single ring surrounding them, Yugo chanted. "Spread those wings shining with sacred light and strike down your enemies with your radiance! Synchro Summon! Come forth, Level 8! Crystal Wing Synchro Dragon (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500/LV: 8)!"

Clear Wing's evolved form appeared on Yugo's field, illuminating the field with its radiance.

"Since Clear Wing left the field, I can use Wonder-Eyes' effect." Yuya declared. "I will negate Crystal Wing's effect and prevent it from declaring an attack. Miracle Bind!"

Flaming tendrils shot out of Wonder-Eyes' wings, binding Crystal Wing.

"With this, even Crystal Wing has been neutralized." Shinji remarked. "That Wonder-Eyes is quite fearsome."

"Perhaps, but there's a glaring weakness to its effect." Tokumatsu said. "Judging from Yugo's relaxed expression, he must have figured it out as well."

"I knew you would do that." Yugo smirked. "But first, Gacha Turtle's effect activates. I will Special Summon a random Synchro Monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated."

Gacha Turtle's mouth opened wide open, with a small capsule rolling out of it. Once it landed on the field, it burst open, revealing Highspeedroid Kitedrake.

"Next, I will Pendulum Summon once again." Yugo continued. "Revive from the Extra Deck, Speedroid Hexasaucer and Speedroid Passing Glider!"

Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Monsters upon landing on Yugo's field.

"Time for the main event." Yugo declared. "I activate the Spell Card Speedroid Fusion, using Hexasaucer and Kitedrake as materials in order to Fusion Summon!"

As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yugo chanted for the second time in a row.

"Proud ruler of the sky! Spheres of fate! Merge together as one and transform into the mechanical dragon knight riding freely in the vast skies! Fusion Summon! Be born, Level 9! Highspeedroid Wyrider Shooter (Wind/Machine/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 3200/DEF: 2250/LV: 9)!"

A mechanical Monster resembling a medieval knight that had a large disk shooter attached to its left arm, which rode a mechanical dragon with a serpentine body, appeared on Yugo's field.

"A new Fusion Monster?" Yuya frowned. "I didn't expect that…"

"Wyrider Shooter's effect activates." Yugo declared. "Once per turn, I can destroy an opponent's Monster and deal damage to them equal to the difference between Wyrider Shooter's attack and the destroyed Monster's attack. I will destroy Wonder-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"

Yugo's Monster aimed its shooter at Wonder-Eyes, launching an oversized disk that pierced through the dragon's body, destroying it and striking Yuya, who let out a cry of pain.

Yuya – LP: 600→400

"Looks like Yugo realized it." Shuzo remarked. "Wonder-Eyes can only bind one Monster with its effect. Therefore, you just need to destroy it with another Monster."

"This is really bad!" Tatsuya cried out. "Yuya-oniichan is completely defenseless!"

"Wonder-Eyes' effect activates!" Yuya shouted. "When this card is destroyed, I can banish it to Special Summon a "Pendulum Dragon" Monster from my Deck or Extra Deck with a Level lower than its Level! Come, Transient-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500/LV: 8/SC: 0)!"

A large portal appeared on Yuya's field, with Transient-Eyes emerging from it.

"Furthermore, thanks to Wonder-Eyes' effect, only the Monster with the highest attack on my opponent's field can attack the summoned Transient-Eyes." Yuya said. "As such, you'll have to attack it with Wyrider Shooter."

"That changes nothing." Yugo said. "Let's battle! Wyrider Shooter, take down Transient-Eyes! Exploding Spin Sonic!"

As Wyrider Shooter prepared to attack, Yuya spotted an Action Card hanging from a low branch ahead of them. Standing on top of his D-Wheel with difficulty, he grabbed the Action Card, only for his expression to fall.

"Kuh, it's the Action Trap Action Bind." Yuya grimaced. "Now I can't add Action Cards to my hand for the rest of this turn…"

"Looks like we both have lousy luck in Action Cards so far." Yugo remarked. "In any case, the battle continues! Go, Wyrider Shooter!"

Wyrider Shooter shot out a barrage of disks from its shooter, piercing through Transient-Eyes' body in numerous places and destroying it, with the ensuing shockwave causing Yuya to grimace.

Yuya – LP: 400→200

"Wyrider Shooter's effect activates, allowing me to draw a card from my Deck since it destroyed a Monster." Yugo said. "Then, I—"

"Since a "Pendulum Dragon" Monster on my field was destroyed, I can activate the Trap Card Avenging Eyes!" Yuya cut off Yugo. "Through its effect, I can Special Summon the destroyed Monster with its effects negated and banish all Monsters on my opponent's field with attack equal to or lower than it! Revive, Transient-Eyes!"

A pillar of fire erupted from the ground, with Transient-Eyes emerging from it. Then, the flames spread outwards, incinerating Crystal Wing and Passing Glider as they enveloped them.

"Damn it…" Yugo cursed. "It seems victory is still far away. I place two cards face-down and end my turn."

"It's my turn!" Yuya announced as he accelerated, approaching Yugo. "Draw! First, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Revive from the Extra Deck, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, Revenue Magician in defense mode, Entermate Trump Sorceress and Blaze-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"

Four beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Monsters upon landing on Yuya's field.

"Revenue Magician's effect activates, allowing me to draw a card from my Deck since it was Pendulum Summoned alongside other Pendulum Monsters." Yuya said. "In addition, I activate Odd-Eyes Knight's Pendulum Effect to increase Blaze-Eyes' attack (Blaze-Eyes ATK: 2500→4250). Then, I activate Trump Sorceress's effect, using it and Transient-Eyes as materials to Fusion Summon!"

As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuya chanted.

"Dragon with transcendental eyes! Become one with the arcane master of union and revive as a new race! Fusion Summon! Come forth, Level 8! Entermate Gatlinghoul (ATK: 2900/DEF: 900/LV: 8)!"

The demonic-looking Monster clad in a tuxedo and holding a gatling gun appeared on Yuya's field.

"Trump Sorceress's effect activates, allowing me to draw a card from my Deck." Yuya said. "Then, I—"

"I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Speedroid Maintenance." Yugo interrupted Yuya's words. "Through its effect, I will destroy Wyrider Shooter to gain Life Points equal to half its attack. In addition, since it was the only Monster on my field, I can draw a card from my Deck!"

Following Yugo's words, Wyrider Shooter burst into a rain of particles that enveloped him.

Yugo – LP: 1950→3550

"Good thinking, because Gatlinghoul's effect activates." Yuya declared. "Thanks to it, when it's Fusion Summoned, my opponent receives 200 damage for every card on the field. Since there are eight cards on the field, you'll receive 1600 points of damage!"

Gatlinghoul aimed its weapon at Yugo, unleashing a barrage of bullets that caused Yugo to let out a cry of pain as his D-Wheel was briefly sent spinning out of control.

Yugo – LP: 3550→1950

"Not bad." Yukio commented. "Yugo reduced the damage he would have received from Gatlinghoul's effect and prevented Yuya from using its second effect, which would have destroyed a Monster on his field and dealt damage to him equal to its attack. However, he's wide open now and Yuya has three strong Monsters on his field. If any of his attacks land…"

"Yugo…I believe in you." Rin said. "You will break out of this bind, won't you?"

"Looks like it's the end of the line, Yugo." Yuya remarked. "Now, let's battle!"

"During the start of my opponent's Battle Phase, I can activate the effect of Speedroid Accel Assault in my hand!" Yugo suddenly declared. "Through it, if I control no Monsters, I can Special Summon it (Wind/Machine/Effect/ATK: 900/DEF: 1200/LV: 3)!"

A Monster resembling a yellow humanoid car appeared on Yugo's field.

"Accel Assault's effect doesn't end here." Yugo continued. "If this card was successfully Special Summoned through its effect, I can Special Summon a "Speedroid" Tuner Monster from my Graveyard and make this card's Level equal to that Monster's Level. Revive, Level 1 Red-Eyed Dice!"

A compartment opened on Accel Assault's back, with Red-Eyed Dice emerging from it.

"I'm not done yet." Yugo smirked. "I activate the Trap Card Urgent Tuning, whose effect allows me to perform a Synchro Summon during the Battle Phase by using Monsters on my field. I tune the Level 1 Accel Assault with the Level 1 Red-Eyed Dice!"

As Accel Assault turned into a single star and Red-Eyed Dice turned into a single ring surrounding it, Yugo chanted.

"The pulse of victory is unleashed by the paradoxical momentum! Open the path leading to a new horizon! Synchro Summon! Come forth, Level 2! Highspeedroid Rattleback (Wind/Machine/Synchro/Tuner/Effect/ATK: 300/DEF: 800/LV: 2)!"

A mechanical Monster resembling a semi-ellipsoidal top that was constantly rotating appeared on Yugo's field.

"A Level 2 Synchro Monster…" Crow muttered. "Could it be…? But, in this situation, how can he use it?"

"Rattleback's effect activates!" Yugo stated. "When this card is Synchro Summoned successfully while I control no other Monsters, I can Special Summon a "Speedroid" or "Synchro Dragon" Synchro Monster from my Graveyard or banish zone with its effects negated. Revive, Crystal Wing Synchro Dragon!"

A portal appeared on Yugo's field, with Crystal Wing emerging from it.

"I'm not sure what you're planning, but I won't hesitate here." Yuya declared. "Go, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! Destroy Highspeedroid Rattleback! Spiral Strike Burst!"

"I activate Rattleback's final effect!" Yugo exclaimed. "Once during my opponent's turn, I can perform a Synchro Summon by using this card and Monsters on my field as materials! I tune the Level 8 Crystal Wing Synchro Dragon with the Level 2 Synchro Tuner Highspeedroid Rattleback!"

As Crystal Wing turned into eight stars and Rattleback turned into two massive rings that enveloped the entire lane, Yugo chanted for the second time in a row.

"The iron heart and body borne by the radiant wings! Strike down our enemies with the fury of a thousand storms! Accel Synchro Summon!"

Following her words, Yugo and his D-Wheel suddenly disappeared within a bright flash of light. Moments later, he reappeared behind Yuya, accompanied by a raging tornado.

"Be born, Level 10! Crystal Wing Synchro Dragon – SR Expansion (Wind/Dragon/Synchro/Effect/ATK: 3300/DEF: 3000/LV: 10)!"

The tornado dispersed, revealing the form of a dragon resembling Crystal Wing, only with several armor pieces attached to its torso, head and wings, boosters instead of legs and a large railgun mounted on its right arm. The dragon let out a furious roar that shook the area and caused a large number of leaves to fall from the nearby tress.

[U-Unbelievable!] Melissa exclaimed. [Despite appearing cornered, Yugo performs a miraculous reversal by bringing out a new Synchro Monster through Accel Synchro! And he did all that during his opponent's turn! Amazing isn't enough to describe this!]

"Way to go, Yugo!" Rin cheered. "I knew you were still in the game!"

"An Accel Synchro Summon…" Yuya seemed astonished. "You also attained this power, Yugo?"

"Damn right." Yugo let out a wide smile. "I figured I also needed a hidden trump card for the tournament, so I learned how to use Accel Synchro Summon like Rin. Never thought I'd have to use it so soon in the tournament, but this is one match where I cannot afford to take it easy. Now, my dragon's effect activates! If it was summoned by using Crystal Wing as its material, I can negate the effects of all Monsters on my opponent's field and make their attack 0 until the End Phase! Full Suppress!"

"This isn't good." Yuya frowned as several small drones shot out of Crystal Wing's armor and embedded themselves in his Monster's bodies. "Now my hands are sealed."

"Moreover, Gacha Turtle's Pendulum Effect activates." Yugo said. "Through it, I will Special Summon a random Synchro Monster from my Graveyard!"

A small capsule rolled out of Gacha Turtle's mouth following Yugo's words. Once it landed on the field, it burst open, revealing the form of Maken Dama.

"I cannot do anything more as things stand." Yuya said. "I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"My turn!" Yugo announced. "Draw! Now, I'll have you experience the full power of my Crystal Wing's upgraded form. I activate Crystal Wing Synchro Dragon – SR Expansion's effect. Once per turn, I can check the top five cards of my Deck and destroy cards on my opponent's field equal to the number of "Speedroid" Monsters revealed. In exchange, no other Monster on my field can declare an attack. Now, let's see whether my luck still holds!"

Yugo checked the five top cards of his Deck, letting out a sly smile as he showed them to Yuya.

"Good luck for me, and bad luck for you." Yugo said. "There are four "Speedroid" Monsters among the drawn cards, meaning I can destroy four cards on your field. I will destroy your two Pendulum cards, Gatlinghoul and Blaze-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! Do it, Crystal Wing! Alteros Bombardment!"

Crystal Wing aimed its railgun at Yuya's field as four spheres of light appeared around it and were loaded into the firing chamber. Then, Crystal Wing unleashed four high-velocity shots that tore through Yuya's cards, vaporizing them.

[With a single move, Yugo has almost cleared Sakaki Yuya's field completely!] Nico exclaimed. [Could this be the deciding moment!?]

"Next, I activate Crystal Wing's second effect." Yugo continued. "Once per turn, I can equip a "Speedroid" Monster from my field or hand to it and increase its attack by an amount equal to half that Monster's attack. I will equip the 2200 attack Maken Dama to Crystal Wing."

Following Yugo's words, Maken Dama changed its shape into that of a blade and attached itself to Crystal Wing's left arm.

(Crystal Wing ATK: 3300→4400)

"Battle!" Yugo exclaimed. "Crystal Wing Synchro Dragon – SR Expansion, destroy Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! Crystallos Motor Blast of Momentum!"

"I activate the Trap Card Entermate Daring Escape!" Yuya shouted. "I will banish Odd-Eyes Unicorn from my Extra Deck through its effect to reduce all damage to 0 for this turn!"

Several small boosters appeared all over Crystal Wing's body as it was surrounded by a storm of energy. The dragon charged forward, tearing through Odd-Eyes' body and destroying it with ease.

"You're quite the stubborn guy, Yuya." Yugo smirked. "As expected from my counterpart. However, the final victor will still be me! I end my turn!"

"It's my turn!" Yuya announced. "I activate the Spell Card Amazing Pendulum, whose effect allows me to add two Pendulum Monsters from my Deck to my hand. I will add Revenue Magician and Transient-Eyes to my hand. Then, I will use the Scale 4 Revenue Magician and the Scale 8 Entermate Card Gardna (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1000/LV: 3/SC: 8) to rebuild the Pendulum Scale!"

The two columns of light appeared once again on Yuya's field as his two Monsters rose to their top.

"Since Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon is face-up in my Extra Deck and I have two cards in my Pendulum Zones, I can Pendulum Summon Transient-Eyes from my hand while ignoring the Pendulum Scale." Yuya declared. "Swing, Pendulum of my Soul! More vividly, more fiercely, transcend the limits and engrave an arc of light across the sky connecting to the future! Overscale Pendulum! Return to my side, Transient-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"

The massive pendulum suspended between the two pillars started swinging more wildly, escaping the confines of the pillars as the Pendulum portal was enlarged. Immediately afterwards, a single beam of light erupted from the portal, solidifying into the form of Transient-Eyes upon landing on Yuya's field.

"Time for my trump card to take the stage." Yuya said. "The Monster in my hand can be Special Summoned by sending my Transient-Eyes Pendulum Dragon from the field to the Graveyard and returning two cards from my Pendulum Zone, whose total Scale Value sum is 12 or more, back to my Deck. I will shuffle Revenue Magician and Card Gardna back to my Deck in order to bring out the final form of Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"

As his three Monsters turned into orbs of light, which were absorbed by the enlarged Pendulum portal, Yuya chanted.

"O will of the Supreme King dwelling within me! Become one with the ephemeral dragon of dichromatic eyes to blaze an everlasting trail of light across the vast skies! Come to me, Level 12! The Supreme King Legend Dragon – Nexus-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 3500/DEF: 3000/LV: 12/SC: 12)!"

A massive wave of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the form of Nexus-Eyes upon landing on Yuya's field. The dragon let out a furious howl, with Crystal Wing responding in kind.

"It's here!" Ayu cheered. "Yuya-oniichan's strongest Monster! Yugo won't know what hit him!"

"Go, Yuya!" Shuzo cheered. "Let you hot-blooded youth guide you to victory!"

"I activate Nexus-Eyes' effect." Yuya declared. "Once per turn, I can increase this card's attack by an amount equal to the attack of all Monsters Special Summoned from the hand and/or Extra Deck on the field apart from itself until the End Phase! Nexus Grasp!"

Nexus-Eyes spread out its wings as streams of energy were released from Crystal Wing's body, enveloping Nexus-Eyes' body.

(Nexus-Eyes ATK: 3500→7900)

"Battle!" Yuya exclaimed. "Nexus-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, destroy Crystal Wing Synchro Dragon – SR Expansion! Quintessence Spiral Breath!"

"Crystal Wing's effect activates!" Yugo said. "When it's equipped with a "Speedroid" Monster, all damage I take from battles involving it is halved!"

Following Yugo's words, Nexus-Eyes opened its maw wide, unleashing a multi-colored spiral blast that struck Crystal Wing, destroying it and almost sending Yugo flying off course due to the ensuing shockwave.

Yugo – LP: 1950→200

"That was close…" Yugo let out a sigh of relief. "At this moment, the destroyed Crystal Wing's effect activates, allowing me to Special Summon a "Synchro Dragon" Monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated. Revive, Clear Wing in defense mode!"

A portal appeared on Yugo's field, with Clear Wing emerging from it. At that time, both Duelists spotted an Action Card embedded in a tree trunk ahead of them. Although Yugo accelerated as much as he could, his D-Wheel was still not performing at full efficiency due to the earlier shockwave. As such, Yuya reached it first and tore it off the trunk with a swift movement. However, he grimaced upon seeing it.

"I can't use this right now." Yuya said. "Looks like this is as far as I can go for this turn. I place two cards face-down and end my turn, with Nexus-Eyes' attack returning to normal (Nexus-Eyes ATK: 7900→3500)."

[The tide of the Duel has shifted into Sakaki Yuya's favor once again!] Nico exclaimed. [However, with both players' Life Points in the red zone, it's still too soon to declare a victor since a single well-executed move can overturn the situation! The question is, does Yugo still have a chance to make a reversal, or will the Duel go to Yuya!?]

"I'm not letting this end without wringing out every last bit of my strength first." Yugo declared. "You'll regret not finishing off during the last turn, Yuya. My turn! Draw! First, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Revive from the Extra Deck, Speedroid Domino Butterfly! And from my hand, come, Speedroid Curse-Eyed Dice (Wind/Machine/Tuner/Effect/ATK: 100/DEF: 1000/LV: 3)!"

Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Domino Butterfly and a Monster in the form of a black die with several sinister-looking eyes engraved on it.

"Two Tuner Monsters…" Jack smirked. "That Monster is coming."

"Here we go, Yuya!" Yugo roared. "Using the Level 7 Clear Wing Synchro Dragon with the Level 2 Domino Butterfly and the Level 3 Curse-Eyed Dice, I will perform a Double Tuning!"

As Domino Butterfly and Curse-Eye Dice turned into two and three rings made out of raging winds while Clear Wing Synchro Dragon turned into seven stars, Yugo chanted while accelerating with his D-Wheel.

"Wondrous wings bearing the everlasting light! Take the Supreme King's passion within me and summon a divine wind to strike down our enemies! Synchro Summon! Take flight, Level 12! The Supreme King Ardent Dragon – Prismatic Wing Synchro Dragon (ATK: 3600/DEF: 3200/LV: 12)!"

The final form of Clear Wing materialized on Yugo's field amidst a raging tempest that threatened to send Yuya's D-Wheel flying as it tore off a large number of branches from the surrounding trees.

[Yugo performs a splendid Double Tuning and brings out his own ace Monster's final form!] Melissa cheered. [Looks like we're heading towards the climax, everyone!]

"The effect of Curse-Eyed Dice that was used as Synchro Material activates." Yugo announced. "Through it, I can destroy all Spell and Trap Cards on my opponent's field. In exchange, only the summoned Synchro Monster can attack during this turn. I will destroy your two face-down cards, Yuya!"

Two bolts of lightning descended from the sky following Yugo's words, destroying Yuya's two cards.

"This is really bad!" Tatsuya exclaimed with an alarmed expression. "With Prismatic Wing's effect sealing all Monster effects, Yuya-oniichan doesn't have anything to defend himself with!"

"This is the end!" Yugo declared. "Battle! Prismatic Wing Synchro Dragon, attack Nexus-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! At this moment, Prismatic Wing's effect activates! When it battles a Level 5 or higher Monster, it gains equal to the combined attack of all Level 5 or higher Monsters my opponent controls until the End Phase (Prismatic Wing ATK: 3600→7100)! Go, Prismatic Wing! Prismatic Pulse of Tempest!"

Prismatic Wing shot upwards as it was surrounded by a storm of wind and energy. It then dived towards Nexus-Eyes, which released a breath attack from its mouth in response. However, Prismatic Wing tore through it and aimed straight for Nexus-Eyes.

"I won't let you end this just yet!" Yuya suddenly exclaimed. "I activate the Action Spell Damage Banish! Thanks to its effect, the battle damage is reduced to 0!"

Following Yuya's words, Prismatic Wing pierced though Nexus-Eyes' torso, destroying the dragon. However, Yuya remained unharmed due to a semi-transparent barrier that appeared around him.

"So close…" Yugo clicked his tongue in irritation. "I'll just finish you off next turn then. I end my turn, with Prismatic Wing's attack returning to normal (Prismatic Wing ATK: 7100→3600)."

[Sakaki Yuya barely survived Yugo's attack, but his situation remains grim!] Nico announced. [With no cards on his field or in his hand, how can he hope to turn this situation around!? Not to mention that the fearsome Prismatic Wing has rendered Monster effects useless, limiting his options! Unless he draws something really good, it looks like this is it for Sakaki Yuya! One could say he would need a miracle to win here!]

Yuya couldn't help but agree with Nico's opinion. Everything would depend on his next draw. If he was unable to turn things around now, the Duel would end with Yugo's victory for sure. However, he had faith in himself and his Deck. Yuya was certain it would respond to his will as always.

"It's my turn!" Yuya announced. "Draw!"

Everyone watching the Duel awaited the result of the draw with bated breath. After a few seconds that felt like an eternity, a small smile appeared on Yuya's face.

"This will work." Yuya declared. "I activate the Spell Card Pendulum Call, whose effect allows me to add two "Magician" Pendulum Monsters from my Deck to my hand. I will add Creation Magician and Destruction Magician to my hand. Then, using the Scale 3 Destruction Magician (ATK: 2500/DEF: 500/LV: 7/SC: 3) and the Scale 8 Creation Magician (ATK: 500/DEF: 1500/LV: 4/SC: 8), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

The two columns of light appeared on Yuya's field once again, with his two Monsters rising to their top.

"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 4 through 7." Yuya said. "Pendulum Summon! Revive from the Extra Deck, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon and Blaze-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"

Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Odd-Eyes and Blaze-Eyes upon landing on his field.

[It looks like a miracle has occurred after all!] Melissa exclaimed. [Yuya rebuilt his Pendulum Scale and brought out two strong Monsters! However, he still can't match Yugo's Prismatic Wing with this! What could he be planning!?]

"I activate Destruction Magician's Pendulum Effect to grant Blaze-Eyes a Level equal to its Rank." Yuya continued. "Next, I activate Creation Magician's effect to make Blaze-Eyes' Level equal to Odd-Eyes' Level of 7."

"Two Level 7 Monsters…" Yuto smirked. "That dragon is coming."

"I Overlay my two Level 7 Monsters!" As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuya chanted. "Dragon with the dual-colored eyes! Unleash that black scale of wrath and eradicate all opposing enemies! Xyz Summon! Come forth, Rank 7! Dragon with eyes of rage, Supreme King Black Dragon – Odd-Eyes Rebellion Dragon (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500/R: 7/SC: 4/OU: 2)!"

The Monster resembling a mix between Odd-Eyes and Dark Rebellion appeared on Yuya's field, letting out a furious howl.

"An Xyz Monster, eh?" Tokumatsu remarked. "I see. Since an Xyz Monster doesn't have a Level, Yugo cannot use Prismatic Wing's effect to increase its attack."

"However, Rebellion Dragon's attack is still lower than Prismatic Wing's and there don't be to seem any Action Cards coming up." Shinji pointed out. "How's Yuya going to destroy Prismatic Wing like this?"

"Battle!" Yuya exclaimed. "Odd-Eyes Rebellion Dragon, attack Prismatic Wing Synchro Dragon!"

[What's this!?] Nico cried out in shock. [Sakaki Yuya is attacking even though his Monster's attack is lower!? What's he thinking!?]

"Since a Pendulum Monster on my field is battling an opponent's Monster with a lower attack than it, I can banish Iris Marvel from my Graveyard to activate its final effect!" Yuya stated. "Thanks to it, I can increase my Monster's attack by an amount equal to half the attack or defense of the Monster banished to activate Iris Marvel's first effect! I choose to increase my dragon's attack by that of half of Odd-Eyes Minotaur's 1600 defense (Rebellion Dragon ATK: 3000→3800)!"

"He did it!" Yuzu cheered. "Rebellion Dragon's attack surpassed that of Prismatic Wing!"

[Go, Yuya-oniichan!]

Ayu, Tatsuya and Futoshi shouted together.

"Settle this, Odd-Eyes Rebellion Dragon!" Yuya shouted. "Imperial Wrath Revolt – Strike Disobey!"

Rebellion Dragon's wings opened up, forming energy constructs as its tusks glowed. Then, the dragon charged forward, with Prismatic Wing diving from above to meet it head-on. The two dragons' clash unleashed a massive storm of lightning and wind that ravaged the surrounding area. However, the clash didn't last for long as Rebellion Dragon's tusks tore through Prismatic Wing's body. The ensuing explosion engulfed Yugo's D-Wheel, forcing it to come to a stop as Yuya passed him.

Yugo – LP: 200→0

Yuya: WIN

[The Duel is over!] Nico exclaimed. [After a heated battle filled with twist and turns, Sakaki Yuya emerges as the victor and advances to the quarterfinals!]

[It's such a shame that Yugo lost.] Melissa said. [My dimension's Duelists have had rotten luck in this tournament. Ah, but just because I'm a bit disappointed, rest assured that doesn't mean I won't perform to the best of my abilities for the next matches, everyone!]

[With this, the preliminary round is over.] Nico announced. [And it was exactly at midday to boot. We will now take a one-hour break for the Duelists to rest and make any adjustments they wish to their Decks for the next round. Also, Duelists are not permitted to move from their current position during that time.]

[If anyone wishes for food or refreshments, you can request a delivery through your Duel Disks.] Melissa further elaborated. [For those of you watching, this is also a good chance to relax and stretch your legs before the next round. See you all in an hour, everyone!]

As Nico and Melissa made their announcements, Yuya approached Yugo, who looked both despondent and angry at the same time. Feeling that he should tread carefully, Yuya spoke.

"Congratulations, Yugo. That was a great Duel."

"Great, he says…" Yugo sighed. "Not for me though. Despite all my training, all my efforts…nothing has changed ever since that day. I… I'm still too weak to stand proudly by her side…"

"Her…?" Yuya raised an eyebrow. "You mean Rin? What does she have to do with all this?"

Yugo remained silent. At that moment, the hoverplane that would take Yugo away from the arena started descending. Upon taking notice of it, Yugo started walking towards it. However, driven by some impulse or instinct that he shouldn't let this chance go by, Yuya grabbed Yugo's shoulder.

"Yuya?"

Instead of answering him, Yuya turned to his Duel Disk as he pressed a button.

"Reiji, are you there?"

[Yuya?] Reiji's voice was heard coming from the Duel Disk. [What's the matter?]

"Please, can you withhold taking Yugo away for a few minutes?" Yuya asked. "We're in the middle of a very important conversation right now."

[An important conversation, you say…] Reiji said. [Very well, I'll allow it. There's no harm in letting him stay there for a while longer after all. I'll speak to the pilot, so take your time.]

"You have my gratitude, Reiji."

After Reiji signed off, Yuya turned to Yugo, who was looking at him with a confused expression on his face.

"OK, talk to me, Yugo." Yuya said. "What did you mean when you said you're too weak to stand by Rin's side?"

Yugo groaned, then sighed, and eventually sat down on a nearby tree trunk.

"…There's no harm in telling you, I guess." Yugo said. "You'll keep pestering me if I don't, right?"

"As expected of my counterpart." Yuya smiled. "You understand me well."

"Would be nice if you denied it…" Yugo muttered. "It all started when I was younger, just another Commons orphan in the slums of Neo Domino City. That time… You probably wouldn't recognize me if you saw me at that time. I was meek and shy, always bullied by my peers and the older kids. Whether it was a Duel or a brawl, I kept losing left and right."

"Bullied?" Yuya was astonished. "Meek and shy? You? That doesn't sound like you at all."

"It's the truth." Yugo said. "It got to the point where I almost lost my will to live. However…everything changed when I met Rin."

A small smile appeared on Yugo's face as he continued speaking.

"She stood up to the other kids for my sake. She helped and protected me despite how pathetic I was. Without her, I would have dropped dead in some corner of the slums. That's why…I decided to become strong in order to become a man that can stand proudly by her side. I polished my Dueling skills, trained my body and absorbed whatever knowledge I could about engineering in order to help her build a D-Wheel. And…I aimed for the seat of Duel King to prove to everyone and myself that I was strong enough for her."

Yugo's expression became an anguished one as he punched the tree trunk.

"But it was all for nothing!" Yugo shouted. "I couldn't stop that grinning bastard from abducting Rin! I wasn't able to save her when she was being controlled! I lost to the grinning bastard and was absorbed! When we fought Jack, it was Rin who carried the useless me for most of the Duel! And now, I've lost to you as well! Nothing has changed from that time! What else can you call me but a pathetic weakling!?"

Yuya remained silent for a few seconds before responding.

"…Yugo, you're…one hell of an idiot, aren't you?"

"Hah!?" Yugo shot up, a furious look on his face. "You're picking a fight with me, bastard!?"

"What else can I call you but an idiot?" Yuya said. "It looks to me like you're misunderstanding a very important thing here."

"Misunderstanding?" Yugo spoke with an incredulous expression. "What the Hell am I misunderstanding here!? My weakness is—!"

"That right there is the problem." Yuya cut off Yugo. "Why would you think you're weak just because you lost some Duels? Since when was that the measure of a person's true strength?"

"Eh?" Yugo seemed confused. "What are you talking about?"

"Strength comes in many forms, as does weakness." Yuya said. "That's what I've come to understand during this war. You say you're weak, Yugo? Don't make me laugh. When Rin was kidnapped, you chased after her with all you had. You threw yourself into the midst of the Dimensional War without regard for the danger to yourself for her sake. You fought your hardest no matter the situation and never ran away from a fight. That straightforwardness of yours is your most admirable trait. Only a handful of people in all the four dimensions would be as brave as you in your shoes, Yugo. If you cannot be called strong, then I don't know who can."

"Yuya…"

"Believe in yourself and take a step forward with courage, Yugo." Yuya said as he grabbed Yugo's shoulders. "Nothing will start otherwise. It's no use fretting about what might happen or whether you're worthy. Just deliver your feelings to Rin with all you've got. That's the only way you can grasp your happiness!"

"…Despite how you seem, you're unexpectedly pushy." Yugo eventually said after a few seconds. "Why are you so passionate about this?"

"Eh…let's just say that I'm facing a…similar issue…" Yuya said with an embarrassed expression. "That's why I want you to do your best as well…"

"I see." Yugo let out a knowing smile. "That's how it is. I guess…you have a point about me having to take a step forward. I…I should let Rin know how I feel and deal with what may come afterwards…"

"I'll be waiting for the good news." Yuya gave Yugo a thumbs-up. "And if you need some extra incentive, just think what Yuri would say to you if he was in my place."

Yugo considered this for a few seconds before exploding with a furious expression on his face.

"Like Hell I'll let that cabbage head mock me! Here I go, Yuya! Wait for me, Rin!"

Yugo rushed forward like a man possessed and boarded the hoverplane. A few seconds later, the hoverplane took off, leaving Yuya standing on his own in the middle of the Jungle area.

"Godspeed, comrade." Yuya saluted, and then sat down as he took out his Deck. "Let's see if I can change a few things before the next match…"


At Maiami Stadium's waiting area…

After Yugo got off the hoverplane, he rushed ahead in search of Rin, ignoring those calling at him. After a few minutes, he spotted her looking at one of the screens placed throughout the waiting area and called out to her.

"Rin!"

"Yugo?" Rin turned to him, surprised by his frantic tone and expression. "What's the matter? Why do you look so flustered?"

"There's something important I have to tell you!" Yugo said as he grabbed her hand. "Come with me!"

"Eh? What's going on, Yugo? Oi, answer me!"

Rin called out to him as she followed after him. Although she was curious and a little irritated, she knew it was probably something important like he had just said. She knew him well enough to be able to read his intent. After a couple of minutes, the two of them arrived at the waiting area beneath the Maiami Stadium, where the Lancers had been first led to. After closing the door and making sure that no-one was around, Yugo turned to Rin.

"Geez, what's the matter with you?" Rin asked. "I thought you might be feeling down after your loss to Yuya and was ready to cheer you up, but you suddenly dragged me all the way here. So, out with it. What's that oh-so important thing you have to tell me?"

"Rin, I…"

Yugo's next words died in his throat. Despite having rushed to Rin with the determination to die, he couldn't think of what to say next. Whatever words came to mind seemed inadequate to express his feelings. His heart was also gripped by the fear of rejection, further adding to his confusion and panic. His breath became ragged and sweat rolled down his back. But then…

That straightforwardness of yours is your most admirable trait.

Believe in yourself and take a step forward with courage, Yugo.

Yuya's earlier words came to mind, causing Yugo to let out a small smile.

That's right. There's no reason for me to overthink things. I'll just move forward!

"Are you alright, Yugo?" Rin asked with a concerned expression. "Do you perhaps feel sick? Maybe we should—"

"Rin!" Yugo shouted, startling the girl. "I…! All this time, I've liked you! Please go out with me!"

Yugo's abrupt confession was met with silence. Rin seemed to have frozen in place, while Yugo looked someone who had exhausted all his strength and was ready to collapse. After a minute of painful silence, Rin eventually spoke with a hesitant expression.

"You…like me? In other words…you like me as a girl? As a member of the opposite gender? That like?"

"Y-Yes, that like!" Yugo said. "And…your answer is…"

A small smile appeared on Rin's reddened face as she spoke.

"…Yes. If you're alright with me…I'd love to go out with you."

"Seriously!?" A wide smile appeared on Yugo's face. "Yahooooo! Alright! This is the best day of my life!"

Yugo started jumping up down like an overhyped child. However, at that moment, his stomach let out a loud growl.

"Hehehehe…" Yugo said with a nervous smile. "Sorry, Rin. The Duel before was so intense that I'm famished…"

"Oh, you." Rin said with an amused smile as she linked her hands around his. "Let's get you something to eat first. Then…then we can talk a bit more until the next round starts."

"Sounds good to me."

With Rin leaning on Yugo's shoulder, the two of them left the room with matching smiles on their faces.


Card Corner

Lyrical Luscinia – Zircon Dunnock

ATK: 100, DEF: 100, LV: 1, SC: 5

Wind/Winged Beast/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: Once per turn, when a "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster is Xyz Summoned to your field successfully, you can multiply its ATK by an amount equal to the number of Xyz Materials attached to it.

Monster Effect: You can banish this card from your field to target a "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monster on your field; increase its ATK by an amount equal to its Rank x 300.

Phantom Knights Wraith Crossbow

ATK: 2200, DEF: 2000, R: 4

Dark/Warrior/Xyz/Effect

2 Level 4 "Phantom Knights" Monsters

Monster Effect: You can detach an Xyz Material from this card; destroy a "Phantom Knights" Monster on your field and deal damage to your opponent equal to its Level/Rank x 200. If you destroyed a "Phantom Knights" Xyz Monster through this effect, you can draw a card from your Deck for every such Monster during your End Phase (this effect applies even if this card is no longer on the field).

Phantom Knights Terminate Mace

ATK: 2900, DEF: 2650, R: 8

Dark/Warrior/Xyz/Effect

2 Level 8 "Phantom Knights" Monsters

Monster Effect: If this card is Xyz Summoned successfully, you can send Monsters on your opponent's field to the Graveyard equal to the number of "Phantom Knights" Monsters that were destroyed during that turn and the previous turn. Your opponent cannot target other DARK Monsters for an attack. Once during either player's turn, when an opponent's Monster activates its effect, you can detach an Overlay Unit from this card to negate that effect, destroy that Monster and have both players draw a card from their Deck. If this card is destroyed, all DARK Monsters on your field gain 800 ATK.

Lyrical Luscinia – Kyanite Goldfinch

ATK: 0, DEF: 100, LV: 1

Wind/Winged Beast/Effect

Monster Effect: If your opponent received damage from a "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster, you can Special Summon this card from your hand and make its attack equal to twice the amount of damage your opponent received.

Lyrical Luscinia – Sodalite Wagtail

ATK: 0, DEF: 0, LV: 1

Wind/Winged Beast/Effect

Monster Effect: When this card is used as an Xyz Material for the Xyz Summon of a "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monster, increase that Monster's ATK by 300 for every Xyz Material used to summon it.

Phantom Knights Hellforged Armor

ATK: 500, DEF: 2400, R: 3

Dark/Warrior/Xyz/Effect

2 Level 3 "Phantom Knights" Monsters

Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can target a DARK Xyz Monster on your field; equip this card to it, attach this card's Xyz Materials to it and increase its ATK by 1000. The equipped Monster gains the following effects.

-Once per turn, you can detach an Xyz Material from the equipped Monster; destroy a Monster on your opponent's field and deal 500 points of damage to them.

-When the equipped Monster battles an opponent's Monster, negate that Monster's effect.

Lyrical Luscinia – Rhapsody Rook

ATK: 1000, DEF: 0, R: 5

Wind/Winged Beast/Xyz/Effect

3 or more Level 5 "Lyrical Luscinia" Monsters

Monster Effect: This card can attack your opponent directly while it has Xyz Materials attached to it. This card can attack twice per Battle Phase. If this card attacks your opponent directly, you can target a Monster on their field; banish it and deal damage to them equal to half its ATK or DEF on the field. During either player's turn, if this card would be destroyed by battle or card effect, you can detach an Overlay Unit to prevent its destruction and reduce any damage from that battle to 0. Then, you can destroy a card on your opponent's field. If this card is destroyed, you can Special Summon a "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monster from your Graveyard and attach this card to it as an Xyz Material.

Phantom Knights Tarnish Sabaton

ATK: 800, DEF: 1400, LV: 3

Dark/Warrior/Effect

Monster Effect: When your opponent's Monster attacks you directly, you can send this card from your hand to the Graveyard to negate that attack. During the next turn after you used that effect, you can banish a "Phantom Knights" Monster from your Graveyard; Special Summon this card from your Graveyard, but banish it when it leaves the field.

Speedroid Bendomino

ATK: 400, DEF: 100, LV: 1

Wind/Machine/Tuner/Effect

Monster Effect: If you control a Tuner Monster, you can Special Summon this card from your hand. During either player's turn, you can banish this card from your Graveyard and apply the following effects depending on the turn you banished it.

-Your turn: Change the battle positions of your opponent's Monsters.

-Your opponent's turn: Change the battle positions of your Monsters.

Highspeedroid PLS Sword

ATK: 2600, DEF: 1000, LV: 7

Wind/Machine/Synchro/Effect

1 "Speedroid" Tuner Monster + 1 or more non-Tuner Monsters

Monster Effect: Once per turn, when your opponent receives battle or effect damage from a "Speedroid" Monster you control, you can inflict the same amount of damage to them. Once during either player's turn, when this card battles an opponent's Monster, you can destroy that Monster before damage calculation.

Entermate Odd-Eyes Knight

ATK: 2400, DEF: 1600, LV: 6, SC: 2

Dark/Warrior/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: Once per turn, when a Dragon-type or Spellcaster-type Monster is Special Summoned from the Extra Deck, you can target that Monster; increase its ATK by an amount equal to the difference between your opponent's Life Points and yours.

Monster Effect: Once per turn, when an "Odd-Eyes" Monster on your field destroys an opponent's Monster by battle, you can inflict damage to your opponent equal to half the difference between your Life Points.

Entermate Momentum Draco

ATK: 800, DEF: 1300, LV: 3, SC: 4

Light/Dragon/Pendulum/Tuner/Effect

Pendulum Effect: If this card was used as Synchro Material for the Synchro Summon of a Dragon-type or Spellcaster-type Monster while your opponent controls more Monsters than you do, you can banish it from your Extra Deck; draw a card from your Deck for every Synchro Material used in that Monster's Synchro Summon.

Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can target an "Entermate" Monster on the field; increase or decrease its Level by 1.

Odd-Eyes Oracle Dragon

ATK: 2500, DEF: 2000, LV: 7

Dark/Dragon/Fusion/Effect

2 Monsters, including at least one "Odd-Eyes" Monster

Monster Effect: Before the start of your Draw Phase, you can check the top card of your Deck, and then place it on either at the top or the bottom of your Deck. This card cannot attack on the turn you used this effect. When this card is destroyed, you can Special Summon "Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon" from your hand, Deck, Graveyard or face-up from your Extra Deck, and then increase its ATK by half the difference between your opponent's Life Points and yours and prevent it from being destroyed by battle or card effects for this turn.

Speedroid Gacha Turtle

ATK: 0, DEF: 2000, LV: 3, SC: 6

Wind/Machine/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: Once during either player's turn, when you successfully Synchro Summon a WIND Synchro Monster, you can Special Summon a random Synchro Monster from your Graveyard with its effects negated, but banish it if it leaves the field. You must have a "Speedroid" Pendulum Monster in your other Pendulum Zone to activate this effect.

Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can declare a card type (Monster, Spell, Trap) and check the top card of your Deck. If you guessed correctly, you can add it to your hand. If not, banish it and take 600 points of damage.

Wonder-Eyes Pendulum Dragon

ATK: 3000, DEF: 2500, LV: 9, SC: 1

Dark/Dragon/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: You can destroy this card to target an "Odd-Eyes" or "Pendulum Dragon" Monster on the field; increase their ATK by an amount equal to this card's ATK until the End Phase.

Monster Effect: If a "Pendulum Dragon" Monster on your field was destroyed during your previous turn, you can Special Summon this card from your hand. Once during either player's turn, you can target an opponent's Monster; negate its effects and prevent it from declaring an attack as long as this card remains on the field. Cards and effects cannot be activated in response to this effect. As long as a Monster affected by this effect remains on the field, you cannot use this card's effect again. Once per turn, if you have cards in both Pendulum Zones, you can target a Monster on your opponent's field; have it lose ATK equal to the sum of your cards' Scale Value x 400, and have this card gain ATK equal to half the amount of ATK your opponent's Monster lost until the End Phase. You cannot Pendulum Summon on the turn you used this effect. If this card is destroyed, you can banish it to Special Summon a "Pendulum Dragon" Monster from your Deck or Extra Deck with a Level lower than this card's Level. Only the opponent's Monster with the highest ATK can attack the summoned Monster.

Highspeedroid Wyrider Shooter

ATK: 3200, DEF: 2250, LV: 9

Wind/Machine/Fusion/Effect

1 "Speedroid" Synchro Monster + 1 "Speedroid" Monster

Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can destroy an opponent's Monster and deal damage to them equal to the difference between this card's ATK and the destroyed Monster's ATK. When this card destroys an opponent's Monster by battle, draw a card from your Deck. If this card is destroyed by battle or your opponent's card effect, you can Special Summon a "Speedroid" Monster from your Deck or Graveyard.

Speedroid Accel Assault

ATK: 900, DEF: 1200, LV: 3

Wind/Machine/Effect

Monster Effect: During the start of your opponent's Battle Phase, if you control no Monsters, you can Special Summon this card from your hand. Then, you can Special Summon a "Speedroid" Tuner Monster from your Graveyard and make this card's Level equal to that Monster's Level.

Highspeedroid Rattleback

ATK: 300, DEF: 800, LV: 2

Wind/Machine/Synchro/Tuner/Effect

1 WIND Tuner Monster + 1 non-Tuner Monster

Monster Effect: When this card is Synchro Summoned successfully while you control no other Monsters, you can Special Summon a "Speedroid" or "Synchro Dragon" Synchro Monster from your Graveyard or banish zone with its effects negated. Once during your opponent's turn, you can perform a Synchro Summon by using this card and Monsters on your field as materials.

Crystal Wing Synchro Dragon – SR Expansion

ATK: 3300, DEF: 3000, LV: 10

Wind/Dragon/Synchro/Effect

1 "Speedroid" Synchro Tuner Monster + 1 Level 7 or higher "Synchro Dragon" Synchro Monster

Monster Effect: If this card was Synchro Summoned by using Crystal Wing Synchro Dragon as one of its materials, you can negate the effects of all Monsters on your opponent's field and make their ATK 0 until the End Phase. Once per turn, you can check the top five cards of your Deck and destroy cards on your opponent's field equal to the number of "Speedroid" Monsters revealed. No other Monster on your field can declare an attack on the turn you used this effect. Once per turn, you can equip a "Speedroid" Monster from your hand or field to this card and increase its ATK by an amount equal to half the equipped Monster's ATK. As long as a "Speedroid" Monster is equipped to this card, all damage you take from battles involving it is halved. If this card is destroyed, you can Special Summon a "Synchro Dragon" Monster from your Graveyard apart from it with its effects negated.

Speedroid Curse-Eyed Dice

ATK: 100, DEF: 1000, LV: 3

Wind/Machine/Tuner/Effect

Monster Effect: If this card is used as Synchro Material, you can destroy all Spell and Trap Cards on your opponent's field. If you used this effect, only the summoned Synchro Monster can attack on this turn's Battle Phase.

Rank-Up-Magic Migration Force

Normal Spell Card

If you control no Monsters while your opponent does, you can Special Summon a "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monster from your Graveyard and use it as Xyz Material to Xyz Summon a "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monster that's one Rank higher than it from your Extra Deck (this Special Summon is treated as an Xyz Summon).

Rank-Up-Magic Flutter Force

Quick-Play Spell Card

Activate this card when a "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monster on your field is destroyed. Special Summon a "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monster from your Extra Deck that is one Rank higher than the destroyed Monster, and then attach both it and this card as Xyz Materials to it (this Special Summon is treated as an Xyz Summon).

Rank-Down-Magic Phantom Knights Rite

Normal Spell Card

Target a "Phantom Knights" Xyz Monster on your field; Special Summon a DARK Xyz Monster whose Rank is lower than that Monster's Rank from your Extra Deck by using it as Xyz Material (this Special Summon is treated as an Xyz Summon). Then, attach this card to the summoned Xyz Monster as an Xyz Material.

Phantom Knights Emergence

Normal Spell Card

Check the top card of your Deck. If it's a "Phantom Knights" Monster, Special Summon it, and then you can make the Level of another "Phantom Knights" Monster on your field equal to that Monster's Level. Send any other card to the Graveyard and take 800 points of damage.

Lyrical Luscinia – Habitat

Normal Spell Card

Shuffle a Level 1 "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster from your field back to your Deck, and then Special Summon a Level 1 "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster with a different name from your Deck.

Lyrical Luscinia – War Cry

Normal Spell Card

Activate this card during your Main Phase 1 if you control two or more "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monsters. Destroy all face-up cards on your opponent's field, but skip your Battle Phase.

Phantom Knights Inheritance Ceremony

Normal Spell Card

Send three "Phantom Knights" Monsters from your Deck to the Graveyard; Special Summon two "Phantom Knights" Monsters from your Graveyard other than the Monsters you sent to the Graveyard through this card's effect that have the same Level.

Velocity Trigger

Normal Spell Card

Destroy a Level 7 or higher "Speedroid" Monster on your field; draw two cards from your Deck.

Helldive Slasher of Whirlwind

Equip Spell Card

Equip this card to a "Synchro Dragon" Monster you control. Any attack increase the equipped Monster receives from its effect is retained as long as this card is equipped to it. When the equipped Monster destroys an opponent's Monster by battle, you can destroy all other Monsters on the field and draw a card from your Deck for every Monster that was destroyed on your opponent's side of the field by this effect.

Speedroid Maintenance

Quick-Play Spell Card

Target a "Speedroid" Monster on the field; destroy it and gain Life Points equal to half its ATK. Then, if it was the only Monster on your field, draw a card from your Deck.

Phantom Knights Dread Escutcheon

Normal Trap Card

Activate this card when you're about to receive damage. Reduce that damage to 0 and draw a card from your Deck for every 2000 points of damage you would have received. If this card is in your Graveyard while you control at least one defense position "Phantom Knights" Monster, you can Special Summon this card from your Graveyard as a Monster (Dark/Warrior/ATK: 0/DEF: 2000/LV: 4) and switch that Monster(s) to attack position. You cannot place Monsters in defense position until the end of your next turn. If this Special Summoned card leaves the field, banish it.

Ardor Melody

Normal Trap Card

When you're about to receive a direct attack, you can negate that attack, and then deal 300 points of damage to your opponent for every "Lyrical Luscinia" Xyz Monster in your Graveyard.

Sacrifice Maneuver

Normal Trap Card

When a "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster on your field is about to be destroyed by battle, you can send a "Lyrical Luscinia" Monster from your Deck to the Graveyard in order to prevent its destruction and reduce the battle damage to 0.

Overlay Fort

Normal Trap Card

If an Xyz Monster you control is attacked, you can detach an Xyz Material from it to negate that attack.

Supply Drop

Action Trap

Send the top three cards of your Deck to the Graveyard.

Iris Marvel

Normal Trap Card

Banish an "Odd-Eyes" Monster from your hand, Graveyard or face-up from your Extra Deck; halve all damage you receive for the rest of this turn. When a Pendulum Monster on your field battles an opponent's Monster with a higher ATK than it, you can banish this card from your Graveyard; increase that Monster's ATK by an amount equal to half the ATK or DEF of the "Odd-Eyes" Monster banished to activate this card's first effect.

Avenging Eyes

Normal Trap Card

When an "Odd-Eyes" or "Pendulum Dragon" Monster on your field is destroyed, you can activate this effect; Special Summon it with its effects negated, and then banish all Monsters on your opponent's field with an ATK equal to or lower than the summoned Monster's ATK.

That concludes Chapter 80, along with the preliminary round of the Maiami Championship. Regarding the Duels, I'll start with the second one. In regards to Yugo's opponent, I was wavering between Yuya and Yuto, but eventually settled for Yuya. I was always hoping for a battle between the two ever since the third opening of Arc-V seemed to hint at one, and was disappointed when it never occurred. Plus, Yugo desired the title of Duel King, which was passed to Yuya, for his own reasons, so I had those two Duel here. As for Yuto and Ruri, they were kind of the leftover pair, but due to their connection, there was meaning in having the two battle.

With this, the eight Duelists who will proceed to the next round have been decided. From the way things are going with work and life, I expect the next chapter will probably come out next year, most likely around the story's four-year anniversary. Therefore, I will wish you all Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from now just to be on the safe side :) As always, please read, review, favorite and follow.

See you all next time!