Yu-Gi-Oh! Arc-V: The Fifth Factor

by dvdryms

A young duelist with a troubled past arrives at Maiami city in order to participate in the Maiami Championship, but soon finds himself embroiled in incidents exceeding his wildest imaginations. With the prospect of an all-out war between dimensions, will he prove himself to be a dependable ally in the coming conflict...or a harbinger of disaster? (Cover art by JaneValentine007)

83. Maiami Championship Semifinals I

Greetings, community! Dvdryms here with Chapter 83. First of all, I would like to thank the people who started the Tv Tropes page for the Fifth Factor. Since I don't have any idea how tropes work, if anyone wishes to contribute to it, I would be very grateful. Now, in response to your comments.

—To Guest (1): Thanks for pointing my mistake with Ultimate Falcon.

—To Guest (2): Thanks for bringing to my attention that I had forgotten to add Mausoleum Stronghold's Scale Value.

—To Guest (3): Any talk about sequels will have to wait until this story is over.

And now, on with the story!

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Chapter 83 – Maiami Championship Semifinals I

[Ladies and gentlemen, the time has come! The sun may have almost set, but the festival of Duels is far from over! In fact, we're entering the most important phase, namely the semifinal round! Everyone, are you feeling excited!?]

Resounding cheers could be heard coming from the stadium and all across the city following Nico's announcement. As for the four remaining Duelists, Yuri, Yukio, Yuto and Yuya, they stood up at once, matching fierce expressions on their faces.

[In this round, we'll be changing the Action Fields. Instead of Wonder Quarter, we'll be using two separate Action Fields, Atlas Colosseum and City of the Future – Heartland!]

Following Melissa's words, the Action Field surrounding the area around the stadium turned into particles of light and vanished. In its place, an oversized colosseum and an exact replica of Heartland's central district materialized right next to Maiami Stadium.

[These are the chosen battlefields for the four Duelists that will vie for the two spots in the final round!] Melissa continued. [So, without further ado, let's begin! The first round pits the Fusion Dimension's fiercest fighter Yuri against the Lancers' ace Tachibana Yukio!]

[There seems to be some history between these two.] Nico said. [Tachibana Yukio was defeated by Yuri during the final stages of the Interdimensional War, which means he's probably eager to avenge himself here. This should make for a thrilling Duel!]

"Oi, oi, Yukio actually lost to that shrimp?" Hiyama laughed. "How lame. He'd better win here, or else I'm never letting him live this down."

"Like you could have done any better, you muscle-brained idiot…"

"Hey, what was that, Oboro!?" Hiyama shouted. "You picking a fight with me!?"

"Give it a rest, you two." Daisuke put himself between Oboro and Hiyama, who were glaring at each other. "This is no time for petty fights. We're going to miss the good part."

"Don't worry." Akihiro said. "Yukio won't lose to the same opponent twice."

Turning their sights to the screen, the four youths noticed that Yukio had arrived at the colosseum's gate. After briefly taking a look around, he entered the large arena, which was surrounded by towering statues of warriors. From the entrance across him, Yuri could also be seen walking inside the arena, his usual confident smile on his face.

"Finally." Yukio grinned. "This is the rematch I've been looking forward to the most."

"Same here." Yuri said. "Last time, Zarc interfered and played a part in my victory. This time, I'll defeat you on my own fair and square. Fufu, I don't know why, but it feels I've come a long way from the time I was feared as Academia's most dangerous Duelist."

"Well, I also feel that the Duelist who was once known as the Wicked Dragon of the Underworld and I are completely different people." Yukio said with a smile. "Maybe we've both lost that wild edge of ours. But that doesn't mean we're weaker for it. I'd say it's quite the opposite."

"It's strange, but I can't help but agree with you." Yuri said. "But enough talking. We're here to settle things, aren't we?"

"You got that right."

[Looks like both Duelists are ready and raring to go!] Nico announced. [Let's not keep them waiting any longer! Maiami Championship Semifinal Round, first Duel, start!]

[Duel!]

Both Duelists shouted together as they activated their Duel Disks.

Yuri – LP: 4000

Yukio – LP: 4000

"Big bro Yukio…" Nene muttered with her hands clasped together. "Good luck!"

"I'll take the first turn." Yuri announced. "Since I control no Monsters, I can activate the Spell Card Predator Synthesis. Through its effect, I can select a "Predator Plants" Fusion Monster in my Extra Deck and send up to three random "Predator Plants" from my Deck to the Graveyard. Then, if the sent Monsters can be used as materials for the selected Monster's Fusion Summon, I can Special Summon it from my Extra Deck and treat it as having been Fusion Summoned. I select Predator Plants Philcoxia Basilisk and I will send three random Monsters to the Graveyard."

After checking out his sent Monsters, Yuri smirked.

"The Monsters fulfil the condition, meaning I can Special Summon my Monster." Yuri said. "Come, Predator Plants Philcoxia Basilisk (ATK: 3100/DEF: 2700/LV: 9)!"

Philcoxia Basilisk appeared on Yuri's field, with venom dripping from its fangs.

"Since I successfully summoned the targeted Fusion Monster, I will draw a card from my Deck." Yuri said. "However, on the turn I activated Predator Synthesis, I cannot summon any other Monsters. I place a card face-down and end my turn."

[Yuri makes a bold opening play by summoning a powerful Fusion Monster!] Melissa exclaimed. [Now, how will Yukio respond!?]

"My turn!" Yukio announced. "Draw!"

At that time, a change occurred on the arena's floor. Parts of it started moving, while others were elevated, forming stone pillars and elevated pathways of varying heights. Yukio found himself standing on top of one of these pillars, while Yuri stood on top of another one across him. The massive stone statues surrounding the arena also lowered their weapons, with Action Cards materializing on various places.

[Oh, it seems the special characteristic of this Action Field has taken effect.] Nico said. [The arena will be changing its shape at random intervals, so you had best move quick if you want to secure Action Cards.]

"Lovely." Yukio grumbled. "Using the Scale 2 Dimension Magician (ATK: 0/DEF: 1100/LV: 2/SC: 2) and the Scale 7 Harvest Magician (ATK: 2100/DEF: 1250/LV: 6/SC: 7), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

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

"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 3 through 6." Yukio declared. "Guided by destiny's hand, cross the walls of space and time and manifest a new possibility! Pendulum Summon! Appear, my Monsters! Double Magician (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1200/LV: 3/SC: 8), Tune Magician (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 4/SC: 8) and Chimeric Magician (ATK: 1100/DEF: 1300/LV: 3/SC: 5)!"

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

"Chimeric Magician's effect activates, allowing me to add the Spell Card Fusion from my Deck to my hand." Yukio continued. "Moreover, Tune Magician's effect activates, allowing me to Special Summon a "Magician" Pendulum Monster from my Deck in defense position with its effects negated. Come, Nexus Magician (ATK: 1200/DEF: 500/LV: 3/SC: 8)!"

A portal appeared on Yukio's field, with Nexus Magician emerging from it.

"I activate the Spell Card Fusion, using Double Magician which can be treated as two materials and Nexus Magician to Fusion Summon!" As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yukio chanted. "Arcane master of twin minds! Spellcaster that weaves the bonds! Swirl into a vortex of the moon's gravity and awaken a new power! Fusion Summon! Appear now, Level 9! The warrior blessed by the moon's radiance, Lunar Glow Paladin (ATK: 3200/DEF: 2000/LV: 9/SC: 10)!"

Lunar Glow materialized on Yukio's field, spinning its sickle-shaped staff.

"Due to their effects, Double Magician and Nexus Magician are banished." Yukio said. "Next, I tune the Level 3 Chimeric Magician with the Level 4 Tune Magician!"

As Chimeric Magician turned into three stars and Tune Magician turned into four rings surrounding them, Yukio chanted once again.

"Pure white dragon with unblemished wings! Descend upon the battlefield with the speed of light and slash apart every enemy in your path! Synchro Summon! Appear now, Level 7! Clearwing Fast Dragon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7/SC: 4)!"

Clearwing appeared on Yukio's field, its body letting out a soft glow that illuminated the area.

"This isn't good…"

Yuri muttered so as he started jumping from pillar to pillar and running on top of one of the elevated pathways, heading towards one of the statues.

"I activate Clearwing's effect!" Yukio said as he jumped on his dragon's back and urged it to follow Yuri alongside Lunar Glow. "Once during either player's turn, I can reduce the attack of an opponent's Monster to 0 and negate its effects! Vanishing Mirror!"

Clearwing's wings lit up as it prepared to activate its effect, with Lunar Glow almost catching up to Yuri. However, the massive body of Philcoxia Basilisk slammed between the two, giving Yuri enough time to jump on the statue's blade and grab the Action Card placed there.

"Excellent." Yuri remarked with a satisfied smile. "I activate the Action Spell Vision Barrier. Thanks to its effect, my Monsters cannot be targeted by card effects for this turn."

"So close!" Mamoru snapped his fingers in frustration. "If the effect had gone through, big bro Yukio could have settled it in one turn!"

"There's no way that would happen." Nene commented. "Big bro Yukio's opponent is no slouch. There's no way he will be defeated so easily."

"Change of plans then." Yukio said as he dismounted from his dragon. "I activate Dimension Magician's Pendulum Effect. Once per turn, I can add a banished "Magician" Pendulum Monster to my hand as long as its Level is between the Pendulum Scales. I will add Nexus Magician to my hand and summon it!"

Nexus Magician appeared on Yukio's field next to his other Monsters.

"I activate Nexus Magician's effect." Yukio declared. "Once per turn, I can select a Synchro Monster on the field and increase its attack by 1200 by sending this card to the Graveyard. Of course, I will increase Clearwing's attack."

Following Yukio's words, Nexus Magician turned into a stream of white particles that were absorbed by Clearwing's body.

(Clearwing ATK: 2500→3700)

"Battle!" Yukio exclaimed. "Clearwing Fast Dragon, destroy Philcoxia Basilisk! Terminal Velocity Edge!"

"I activate the Trap Card Parasitic Predator!" Yuri declared. "Thanks to its effect, when a "Predator Plants" Monster on my field is targeted for an attack, I can place a Predator Counter on all Monsters my opponent controls!"

Two fanged spores were shot out of Yuri's Trap Card, embedding themselves into Yukio's Monsters.

"Since your Monsters have Predator Counters, Philcoxia Basilisk's effect activates." Yuri smirked. "As long as it remains on the field, "Predator Plants" Monsters on my field cannot be destroyed by battle with Monsters that have Predator Counters on them, and I also take no damage from battles involving them."

Following Yuri's words, Clearwing's body was surrounded by raging winds as it slammed on Philcoxia Basilisk. However, Yuri's Monster was unaffected by the attack.

"Not bad, but I'm not finished yet." Yukio said. "Since I control at least two Monsters that were summoned from the Extra Deck, I can activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Paragon Downgrade. Through its effect, I can destroy those Monsters and Special Summon Monsters from the Extra Deck with the same summoning type as the destroyed Monsters but with a lower Level by ignoring their summoning conditions and treating them as having been summoned properly. I will destroy my two Monsters to bring out these guys! Come, Drive Magician (ATK: 2400/DEF: 2000/LV: 6) and Fortune Magician (ATK: 2200/DEF: 1600/LV: 7)!"

Clearwing and Lunar Glow exploded into a shower of particles, with Drive Magician and Fortune Magician taking their place.

"I see." Yuri said. "Certainly, since these Monsters don't have Predator Counters, they can destroy my Monster. Their attack is low, but that means…"

"Looks like you've guessed it." Yukio grinned. "Go, Drive Magician! Attack Philcoxia Basilisk! At this moment, Drive Magician's effect activates! When it attacks an opponent's Monster, I can have it gain 300 attack for every card in my opponent's hand until the battle's end. Since you have four cards, my Monster gains 1200 attack (Drive Magician ATK: 2400→3600). Do it, Drive Magician! Mach Assault!"

Drive Magician's staff was enveloped by flames as it smashed it on Philcoxia Basilisk's head, destroying the Monster.

"Due to the effect of Paragon Downgrade, you take no damage from battles involving the summoned Monsters." Yukio said. "Moreover, Harvest Magician's Pendulum Effect activates. Once per turn, I can draw a card from my Deck if a Special Summoned Monster on my field destroyed an opponent's Monster. Then, during my Main Phase 2, I will activate Fortune Magician's effect. I will roll a dice, and if the result is an even number, I will gain 400 Life Points for every Monster on the field. If not, I will take 400 points of damage for every Monster."

The dice placed on top of Fortune Magician's staff shot forward and, after spinning for a while, stopped at four.

"The result is an even number, meaning I gain Life Points."

Yukio was surrounded by a violet aura following his words.

Yukio – LP: 4000→4800

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Yukio said. "Now, give me your best shot, Yuri."

"Yes, I believe that's enough warming up." Yuri remarked. "My turn! Draw! Using the Scale 1 Predator Plants Ankylopsis (ATK: 2200/DEF: 0/LV: 5/SC: 1) and the Scale 7 Predator Plants Triphophyllum Wyvern (ATK: 500/DEF: 1300/LV: 3/SC: 7), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

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

"Predator Plants Ankylopsis's Pendulum Effect activates." Yuri stated. "When I'm about to Pendulum Summon "Predator Plants" Monsters, I can Pendulum Summon them to my opponent's field with their effects negated."

"Encroachment Pendulum, eh?" Edo remarked. "That Yuri, he's become very accustomed to using that tactic."

"With my current Pendulum Scale, I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 2 through 6." Yuri declared. "Roots of malice wriggling in the dark! Be saturated by the Pendulum's light and bloom into the pitch-black flowers of the abyss! Encroachment Pendulum! Bloom on the opponent's field, Predator Plants Moray Nepenthes (ATK: 1600/DEF: 1000/LV: 4)!"

A single beam of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the form of Moray Nepenthes upon landing on Yuri's field.

"Thanks to Ankylopsis' Pendulum Effect, a Predator Counter is placed on all Monsters on your field, Yukio." Yuri said as several fanged spores embedded themselves on Drive Magician and Fortune Magician's body. "I'm sure you're aware what's coming next, right?"

"A Fusion Summon by using my Monsters since they are now treated as Dark-attribute "Predator Plants" Monsters…" Yukio grimaced.

"Got it in one." Yuri smirked. "As a reward, feast your eyes on one of my most dreadful Monsters. I activate Triphophyllum Wyvern's effect, which allows me to Fusion Summon a "Predator Plants" Monster by using Monsters from either side of the field. I will use the three Monsters on your field as materials to Fusion Summon!"

As the three Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuri chanted.

"Captivating flowers dwelling in the abyss! Join together as one and awaken the savage guardian of the fiendish garden from its slumber! Fusion Summon! Manifest now, Level 9! Predator Plants Triphyovertum (ATK: 3000/DEF: 3000/LV: 9)!"

The Monster resembling a cross between a three-headed dragon and a carnivorous plant appeared on Yuri's field, letting out a furious howl.

"Ugh, that thing…" Yukio grimaced. "Now I can't easily summon Monsters from the Extra Deck."

"We're not done yet." Yuri continued. "I activate the Spell Card Predator Fusion. Through its effect, I will banish Moray Nepenthes and Fly Hell from my Graveyard to Special Summon Drive Magician and Fortune Magician from your Graveyard, with their names, attributes and types becoming the same as my banished Monsters."

Drive Magician and Fortune Magician appeared on Yuri's field, with their bodies being bound by vines emitting a dark aura.

"Next, I will use the Monsters I took from you to perform a Fusion Summon!" As the two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuri chanted with his hands clasped in front of him. "Two beautiful flowers with an insect-alluring fragrance! Now become one, and call forth the stealthy hunter trapping its prey in everlasting darkness! Fusion Summon! Come before us, Level 7! Predator Plants Genlisea Manticore (ATK: 2400/DEF: 1700/LV: 7)!"

Genlisea Manticore appeared on Yuri's field, letting out a hiss.

"Thanks to Predator Fusion's effect, my Monster gains attack equal to the sum of its materials' Levels multiplied by 100 (Genlisea Manticore ATK: 2400→3700)." Yuri stated. "Now, let's see if you can survive this. Battle! Genlisea Manticore, attack Yukio directly! Venomous Spike!"

"I activate the Trap Card Pendulum Barrier!" Yukio exclaimed. "Through its effect, I can negate a number of attacks equal to the sum of different numbers between my Pendulum Scales. That means I can negate up to four attacks for this turn!"

"There's no point in attacking like this." Yuri said. "Well, it would be very anticlimactic if things ended here. I end my turn."

[Tachibana Yukio manages to escape from a difficult situation, but his options are limited!] Nico exclaimed. [With two powerful Fusion Monsters out and his first Extra Deck summon sealed, he cannot afford to make a single misplay!]

"Tell me something I don't know…" Yukio muttered. "My turn! Draw! First, I activate the Spell Card Gap Draw, whose effect allows me to draw cards equal to the number of Monsters my opponent controls, in this case two, since I control no Monsters. Then, I activate Dimension Magician's Pendulum Effect, adding Double Magician from my banish zone to my hand. Next, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Come from my hand, Double Magician!"

A single beam of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the form of Double Magician upon landing on the field.

"I release Double Magician which can be treated as two tributes to Advance Summon!" Yukio declared. "Show yourself, eerie dragon with beautiful, dichromatic eyes, Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7/SC: 4)!"

Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon materialized on Yukio's field.

"I'm not done yet." Yukio continued. "Since I have two cards in my Pendulum Zones, I can send Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon to the Graveyard in order to Special Summon its evolved form!"

As Phantom Dragon sank inside a portal surrounded by wandering spirits, Yukio chanted.

"Undead dragon with dichromatic eyes that resides in the Netherworld! Accept this offering and revive the restless soul that yearns for ruin! Ascend now, Level 8! Odd-Eyes Phantasma Dragon (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2000/LV: 8/SC: 0)!"

The serpentine body of Odd-Eyes Phantasma Dragon erupted from the portal, letting out a sonorous roar.

"Battle!" Yukio exclaimed. "Odd-Eyes Phantasma Dragon, attack Genlisea Manticore! At this moment, Phantasma Dragon's effect activates! Once during either player's turn, when it battles an opponent's Monster, that Monster loses 500 attack and defense for every face-up Pendulum Monster in my Extra Deck! There are four such Monsters, meaning your Monster will lose 2000 attack and defense! Phantasma Brand!"

Several wraiths emerged from the gems on Phantasma Dragon's body, latching themselves on Genlisea Manticore and leaving curse-like marks on its body.

(Genlisea Manticore ATK: 3700→1700/DEF: 1700→0)

"Do it, Phantasma Dragon!" Yukio shouted. "Netherworld Spiral Burst!"

A viridian energy blast erupted from Phantasma Dragon's maw, vaporizing Genlisea Manticore and causing Yuri to wince due to the ensuing shockwave.

Yuri – LP: 4000→2700

"Harvest Magician's Pendulum Effect activates." Yukio said while looking around. "Through it, I can draw a card from my Deck since a Special Summoned Monster on my field destroyed an opponent's Monster."

Spotting an Action Card a few meters away from him, Yukio started sprinting towards it. However, the arena started shifting once again, with parts of it sinking to the ground and others rising up.

"Tch, at a time like this! Come, Phantasma Dragon!"

"I won't let you!" Yuri said. "Go, Triphyovertum!"

Phantasma Dragon attempted to come to Yukio's aid, only to be stopped by Triphyovertum, which blocked its way. As the two dragons started grappling, Yukio quickened his steps, jumping from pillar to pillar and sliding down makeshift platforms, eventually landing on the platform where the Action Card was placed. However, at that moment, the platform started inclining, with Yukio doing his best to reach the top before it became completely vertical. Just as it seemed he wouldn't make it—

"Don't underestimate me, damn it!"

Putting all the strength he could muster in his legs, Yukio reached the top and grabbed the Action Card, jumping into a nearby pillar afterwards.

"Jackpot." Yukio grinned upon checking out the Action Card. "I activate the Action Spell Wonder Chance, allowing Phantasma Dragon to attack once again! Do it, Phantasma Dragon!"

"However, our Monsters' attacks are equal!" Yuri pointed out. "That means both of them will be destroyed!"

Following Yuri's words, both Dragons pushed each other away and opened their maws wide, unleashing powerful energy waves. The ensuing explosion as a result of the colliding beams consumed both Monsters, vaporizing them.

"That will do for now." Yukio said. "I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"Yukio destroyed both of Yuri's Monsters, but left himself wide open." Akihiro remarked. "Will he be alright?"

"At this point, keeping Monsters on the field serves no purpose." Oboro said. "After all, they're just going to be used as fuel for Yuri's Fusion Summon as long as his Pendulum Scale is in play. And if Predator Counters are placed on them, Yuri can revive Triphyovertum once more. He's taking a big risk, but it's better than the alternatives."

"Let's hope it'll work out." Daisuke said. "Otherwise, this Duel will be settled far sooner than anticipated."

"My turn!" Yuri announced. "Draw! I will banish Predator Fusion from my Graveyard to Special Summon the Monster summoned by its effect with its effects negated. Revive, Genlisea Manticore!"

A portal appeared on Yuri's field, with Genlisea Manticore emerging from it.

"Next, I will Pendulum Summon." Yuri continued. "Come from my hand, Predator Plants Lilyzard (ATK: 1200/DEF: 1200/LV: 3) and Predator Plants Cresentia Walrus (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1900/LV: 4)!"

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

"I activate Cresentia Walrus's effect." Yuri declared. "Through it, I will send it to the Graveyard along with four "Predator Plants" Monsters from my Deck in order to perform a Fusion Summon!"

As his five Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuri chanted with his hands clasped in front of him.

"Captivating flowers that invite the abyss! Become one now and unleash the malevolent beast feared even by the Gods themselves! Fusion Summon! Appear, Level 10! Predator Plants Urticularia Typhon (ATK: ?/DEF: 2400/LV: 10)!"

The Monster whose lower half was that of a serpent and whose head resembled a giant carnivorous plant, had six wings sprouting from its back, several snake heads emerging from its shoulders, and overall looked like it had fused with a plant appeared on Yuri's field.

"Through its effect, Urticularia Typhon gains 900 attack for every Fusion Material that was used to Fusion Summon it (Urticularia Typhon ATK: ?→4500)." Yuri stated. "Then, I activate Triphophyllum Wyvern's Pendulum Effect in order to perform a Fusion Summon by using Genlisea Manticore and Lilyzard as materials!"

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

"Two beautiful flowers with an insect-alluring fragrance! Now become one, and let the savage hunter's foul odor of death permeate this battlefield! Fusion Summon! Come forth, Level 8! Predator Plants Dragostapelia (ATK: 2700/DEF: 1900/LV: 8)!"

The winged dragon with a giant carrion flower attached to its back appeared on Yuri's field.

"Moving on, I will banish Predator Plants Geranium Shark that I previously sent to the Graveyard in order to draw a card from my Deck for every "Predator Plants" Monster on the field, in this case two." Yuri continued. "Now, let's see how intend to escape from this, Yukio! Battle! Uritcularia Typhon, attack him directly! World Destroyer!"

"I activate the Trap Card Magician's Gateway!" Yukio exclaimed. "Through its effect, your Monster's attack is negated, and then I can Special Summon a Spellcaster-type Monster from my Deck with attack equal to or less than the opposing Monster's attack! Come, Sovereign Magician (ATK: 2400/DEF: 1800/LV: 7/SC: 7) in defense mode!"

A magic circle appeared before Yukio, blocking Urticularia Typhon's attack. Immediately afterwards, Sovereign Magician emerged from it, landing on Yukio's field.

"Heh, so you evaded that." Yuri remarked. "In that case, Dragostapelia will destroy Sovereign Magician! Carrion Corrosion!"

A blob of venom shot out of the flower growing from Dragostapelia's back, enveloping Sovereign Magician and melting his body in a manner of minutes. Spotting an Action Card in the distance, Yuri started running towards, leaping from elevated platform to elevated platform with ease. However, at that moment, the arena began shifting once again, with the Action Card sinking toward the ground. Just as he was about to reach it—

"I don't think so!"

Yukio, who was following after Yuri, jumped in front of him, cutting his path. The few seconds lost from that caused Yuri to miss the Action Card, which vanished beneath the arena, and for the allotted time to expire.

"You're quick on your feet as always." Yuri smirked. "No matter. I place a card face-down and end my turn. At this moment, Urticularia Typhon's effect activates. Since it failed to inflict battle damage to my opponent while being in attack position, I can deal 200 points of damage to my opponent for every Fusion Material used in my Monster's Fusion Summon. Five Monsters were used, meaning you'll receive 1000 points of damage!"

Several energy blasts were launched from Urticularia Typhon's mouths, striking Yukio and almost sending him flying off the pillar he was standing on.

Yukio – LP: 4800→3800

"You just couldn't let go without a parting shot, eh?" Yukio smirked. "Then, it's payback time. My turn! Draw! I activate the Spell Card Cycle of Rebirth, whose effect allows me to banish up to five face-up Pendulum Monsters from my Extra Deck in order to draw an equal number of cards. I will banish Tune Magician, Chimeric Magician, Lunar Glow Paladin, Clearwing Fast Dragon and Sovereign Magician to draw five cards."

Upon checking his drawn cards, Yukio let out a small smile.

"Just what I needed." Yukio remarked. "First, I will activate Dimension Magician's Pendulum Effect, adding Chimeric Magician from my Deck to my hand. Then, I will activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Wavering Eyes. Through its effect, I will destroy all Pendulum cards in our Pendulum Zones in order to deal 500 points of damage to my opponent, add a Pendulum Monster from my Deck to my hand and banish a card on the field. I will add Odd-Eyes Persona Dragon to my hand and banish Urticularia Typhon from your field, Yuri!"

A massive storm erupted on the field, destroying both Duelists' Pendulum cards and shredding Urticularia Typhon to pieces. Yuri was also struck by several flying debris, wincing from the pain.

Yuri – LP: 2700→2200

"With this, your troublesome Pendulum Scale is gone." Yukio said. "Moving on, I will use the Scale 1 Odd-Eyes Persona Dragon (ATK: 1200/DEF: 2400/LV: 5/SC: 1) and the Scale 8 Odd-Eyes Mirage Dragon (ATK: 1200/DEF: 600/LV: 3/SC: 8) to rebuild my Pendulum Scale!"

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

"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 2 through 7." Yukio announced. "Pendulum Summon! Revive from the Extra Deck, Dimension Magician, Harvest Magician! And from my hand, come, Chimeric Magician and Odd-Eyes Solid Dragon (ATK: 2000/DEF: 2500/LV: 7/SC: 6)!"

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

"Dimension Magician's effect activates, allowing me to place up to three Pendulum Monsters from my banish zone face-up in my Extra Deck." Yukio continued. "I choose Sovereign Magician, Lunar Glow Paladin and Clearwing Fast Dragon. Then, through Chimeric Magician's effect, I will add a second copy of Fusion from my Deck to my hand and activate it, fusing Chimeric Magician and Dimension Magician!"

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

"Arcane master with the chimeric body! Spellcaster that transcends the boundary! Become one now to call forth the ravenous dragon with fangs dripping with venom! Fusion Summon! Appear now, Level 7! Starve Venemy Dragon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7/SC: 1)!"

Starve Venemy Dragon materialized on Yukio's field next to his other Monsters.

"I activate Starve Venemy Dragon's effect." Yukio declared. "Through it, I—"

"I won't let you." Yuri cut off Yukio's words. "I activate Dragostapelia's effect, placing a Predator Counter on Starve Venemy Dragon in order to make it Level 1 and prevent it from using its effects!"

A fanged spore was launched from Dragostapelia's back and embedded itself in Starve Venemy's body.

"In that case, how about this?" Yukio said. "Using Starve Venemy Dragon and Harvest Magician as materials, I will perform a Contact Fusion!"

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

"Ravenous dragon with fangs dripping with venom! Arcane master reaping the wandering souls! Now become one, and sow terror in the hearts of those foolish enough to challenge you with your deadly poison! Contact Fusion! Appear now, Level 10! Dreadful Toxin Dragon (ATK: 3200/DEF: 2800/LV: 10/SC: 1)!"

The evolved form of Starve Venemy appeared on Yukio's field, letting out a resounding howl.

"I activate Dreadful Toxin Dragon's effect!" Yukio declared. "Once per turn, I can place a Toxin Counter on all Special Summoned Monsters my opponent controls and reduce their attack by 500 along with negating their effects! Miasma Infusion!"

Dreadful Toxin Dragon's tail shot forward and embedded itself into Dragostapelia's body, leaving behind a spike as it retracted. Immediately afterwards, Dragostapelia's body started showing signs of rot in various parts of its body.

(Dragostapelia ATK: 2800→2200)

"Battle!" Yukio exclaimed. "Dreadful Toxin Dragon, attack Predator Plants Dragostapelia! Decaying Toxic Tide!"

"Naïve!" Yuri shouted. "I activate the Trap Card Garden of Eden! Through its effect, I can send all Monsters I control to the Graveyard in order to reduce all damage we both to receive to 0 for the rest of this turn! Moreover, I can draw a card for every Plant-type Special Summoned Monster that was sent to the Graveyard, in this case one!"

"Perfectly sealed, eh…?" Yukio grimaced. "Nothing I can do about it for now. I place a card face-down and end my turn."

[Despite Yukio's attempt to settle the match in this turn, Yuri once again proves to be quite resilient, easily brushing off Yukio's assault!] Melissa exclaimed. [However, he finds himself in a disadvantegous situation with an empty field and few cards in his hand, while Yukio has a solid formation ready for him! Now, how will Yuri respond!?]

"My turn!" Yuri announced. "Draw! I summon Predator Plants Ophrys Scorpio (ATK: 1200/DEF: 800/LV: 3)!"

Ophrys Scorpio materialized on Yuri's field.

"Ophrys Scorpio's effect activates, allowing me to discard a "Predator Plants" Monsters in order to Special Summon a Level 3 or lower "Predator Plants" Monster from my Deck." Yuri stated. "Come, Predator Plants Darling Cobra (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1500/LV: 3)!"

A fissure opened on Yuri's field, with Darling Cobra emerging from it.

"Darling Cobra's effect activates, allowing me to add a "Fusion" Spell Card from my Deck to my hand." Yuri continued. "I choose to add the Spell Card Transcendental Fusion and activate it by paying 1000 Life Points in order to fuse the two Monsters on my field!"

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

"Carnivorous flowers which endlessly hunger for prey! Join together as one and become a harbinger of demise! Fusion Summon! Come forth, Level 7! Predator Plants Chimera Rafflesia (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7)!"

The Monster resembling a rafflesia flower with two monster heads extending from its body appeared on Yuri's field. At the same time, Yuri winced as he was surrounded by a crimson aura.

Yuri – LP: 2200→1200

"Transcendental Fusion's effect activates, allowing me to Special Summon the Monsters used as Fusion Materials from my Graveyard with 0 attack and make their Levels 4." Yuri declared as a rift appeared above him, with his two Monsters emerging from it. "Then, I will Overlay my two Level 4 Monsters!"

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

"Predator of legend! Let those ravenous instincts loose and devour everything in your path! Xyz Summon! Show yourself, Rank 4! Predator Plants Gaillarida Shamir (Dark/Plant/Xyz/Effect/ATK: 2600/DEF: 1750/R: 4/OU: 2)!"

An oversized Monster resembling between an armored worm with multiple eyes on its head and plants growing all over its body appeared on Yuri's field.

"A new "Predator Plants" Xyz Monster…" Ryo remarked with a small smile. "Looks like Yuri still has one or two aces up his sleeve."

"I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Gaillarida Shamir's effect, which allows me to place a Predator Counter on all Monsters my opponent controls." Yuri stated as two fanged spores embedded themselves into Yukio's Monsters. "Next, I activate Chimera Rafflesia's effect, which allows me to banish a Monster on my opponent's field with a Level less than or equal to this card's. I will banish Odd-Eyes Solid Dragon!"

Several blobs of corrosive fluid were shot out of Chimera Rafflesia's mouths, striking Odd-Eyes Solid Dragon and disintegrating it and in a matter of seconds.

"At this moment, Gaillarida Shamir's effect activates." Yuri smirked. "When a Monster with a Predator Counter on it leaves the field, I gain 600 Life Points and I can draw a card from my Deck."

Following his words, Yuri was surrounded by a viridian aura.

Yuri – LP: 1200→1800

"Battle!" Yuri exclaimed. "Gaillarida Shamir, attack Dreadful Toxin Dragon! At this moment, Gaillarida Shamir's effect activates! Once per turn, when it battles a Monster with a Predator Counter while it has Overlay Units attached to it, I can destroy that Monster before damage calculation and deal damage to my opponent equal to half its attack! Do it, Gaillarida Shamir! Atrocity Taboo!"

The many eyes on Gaillarida Shamir's head opened wide, unleashing a barrage of energy blasts that struck Dreadful Toxin Dragon's body, vaporizing it with ease. The ensuing shockwave caused a cry of pain to escape from Yukio's mouth.

Yukio – LP: 3800→2200

"Since a Monster with a Predator Counter was destroyed, Gaillarida Shamir's effect activates once again." Yuri said. "I can draw a card from my Deck and gain 600 Life Points."

Yuri was surrounded by a viridian aura once again.

Yuri – LP: 1800→2400

"Finally, Chimera Rafflesia will attack you directly!" Yuri shouted. "Blooming Massacre!"

"I activate the Trap Card Defense Draw!" Yukio declared. "Through its effect, the damage is reduced to 0 and I can draw a card from my Deck!"

"That's enough fun for now, I guess." Yuri remarked. "I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"Now it's big bro Yukio who's in a pinch." Futoshi remarked with a dismayed expression. "The situation is changing so quickly that my shivers aren't stopping!"

"I agree, and Tatsuya seems to do so too." Ayu said. "After all, you haven't looked away once from the Duel."

"All the Duels so far have shown me the goal I should aim for." Tatsuya responded with an intense expression. "For my future as a Duelist, I can't afford to miss even one second from these battles."

"Tatsuya is right." Shuzo commented from the side. "Futoshi, Ayu, make sure to learn as much as you can by watching your seniors. After all, you'll be standing on that battlefield as well in the future."

[Yes!]

Futoshi and Ayu nodded in a vigorous manner.

"My turn!" Yukio announced. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Oscillation Booster. Through its effect, I can increase the Scale Value of both cards on my Pendulum Scale up to 4 until my opponent's next End Phase. Of course, I will increase both Scale Values by 4 (Persona Dragon SC: 1→5, Mirage Dragon SC: 8→12). As such, I can now simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 6 through 11. Pendulum Summon! Revive from the Extra Deck, Dreadful Toxin Dragon, Lunar Glow Paladin, Clearwing Fast Dragon, Odd-Eyes Phantasma Dragon and Sovereign Magician!"

A massive beam of energy erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Yukio's Monsters upon landing on his field.

"Here comes a big one, so brace yourself, Yuri." Yukio grinned. "Using Dreadful Toxin, Phantasma Dragon and Sovereign Magician, I will perform a Triple Contact Fusion!"

As his three Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yukio chanted.

"Terrifying dragon with the poisonous body! Ethereal dragon residing in the Netherworld! Spellcaster that rules over the arcane arts! Now become one, and awaken the deadly scourge slumbering in the world's roots! Triple Contact Fusion! Appear now, Level 12! The Supreme King Desecration Dragon – Lethal Pestilence Dragon (ATK: 3900/DEF: 3300/LV: 12/SC: 1)!"

The massive green and violet dragon with two mouths, four legs, two massive arms with large claws extending from them, armor parts seemingly made out of fossilized wood attached on its body, two wing-shaped protrusions, a tail with snapping mandibles attached to it and a pair of outstretched horns protruding from its head materialized on Yukio's field.

"Oh, how impressive." Yuri clapped with an excited expression on his face. "It's my first time coming face-to-face with this Monster. If memory serves well, it's the one that took down Ryo-senpai, right? However, it's no challenge for the me who has surpassed him."

"Save that talk for after you've overcome my Monster." Yukio said. "I activate Lethal Pestilence Dragon's effect! When this card summoned, I can destroy all Spell and Trap Cards on my opponent's field! Demise Hurricane!"

Yukio's Monster extended its wings, generating a foul tempest that destroyed Yuri's Trap Card.

"There's more from where that came from." Yukio said. "I activate my Monster's second effect. During my Main Phase or when my opponent Special Summons a Monster, I can place a Pestilence Counter on Monsters of my choice, reducing their attack to 0 and preventing them from activating their effects. Yuri, I'll place a Pestilence Counter on your Monsters. Asphodel Plague!"

Lethal Pestilence Dragon howled as several spores were launched from the orbs throughout his body and embedded themselves in the bodies of Yuri's Monsters. Immediately afterwards, the Monsters started slowly rotting as their bodies turned into a sickly green color.

(Gaillarida Shamir ATK: 2600→0, Chimera Rafflesia ATK: 2500→0)

"This isn't good." Yuri frowned. "At times like this…"

Yuri started running once again as the arena began shifting in search of Action Cards, with Yukio following suit.

"Battle!" Yukio roared. "Lethal Pestilence Dragon, destroy Gaillarida Shamir! Pestilence Maximum Ravager!"

As Lethal Pestilence Dragon prepared to attack, Yuri moved from one elevated platform to another with graceful movements, seemingly unimpeded by the shifting arena, aiming for an Action Card placed on top of a rising pillar. As for Yukio, he attached his Duel Anchor on one of the statues and started running across the wall, heading towards an Action Card embedded in a dent next to one of the statues.

[Oh, look at these two going!] Melissa exclaimed. [As expected of a former soldier and an underground Duelist, this arena is child's play to navigate for them! However, will lady luck smile on them!?]

Both Duelists reached the Action Cards at the same time and grabbed them.

"I activate the Action Spell Big Escape!" Yuri declared. "Thanks to it, the Battle Phase ends!"

"Geh, mine is the Action Trap Attack Limit, which prevents me from attacking with more than one Monster during the Battle Phase." Yukio grimaced. "Looks like luck wasn't on my side this time. I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"Then, it's my turn!" Yuri announced. "Draw! At this moment, the effect of Predator Plants Cordyceps I discarded during my previous turn activates, allowing me to Special Summon two Level 4 or lower "Predator Plants" Monsters from my Graveyard by banishing it. Revive, Lilyzard and Moray Nepenthes!"

Cordyceps' specter appeared above Yuri's field, with its roots digging into the ground and dragging out Yuri's two Monsters.

"Lethal Pestilence Dragon's effect activates." Yukio said. "Through it, Pestilence Counters will be placed on your Monsters."

"But before that, Lilyzard's effect will be activated, allowing me to draw a card from my Deck." Yuri stated. "Then, I activate Doppel Fusion, using its effect to banish Transcendental Fusion from my Graveyard in order to copy its effects and perform a Fusion Summon by using Darling Cobra and Moray Nepenthes as materials!"

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

"Two beautiful flowers with an insect-alluring fragrance! Now become one, and from the hell beneath your petals, give birth to a new terror! Fusion Summon! Appear, Level 8! The poisonous dragon with hungry fangs, Starve Venom Fusion Dragon (ATK: 2800/DEF: 2000/LV: 8)!"

Yuri's ace Monster appeared on the field, letting out a sonorous roar. At the same time, Yuri grunted as he was surrounded by a crimson aura.

Yuri – LP: 2400→1400

"Through Transcendental Fusion's effect, I will Special Summon Moray Nepenthes and Lilyzard, treating the latter as a Tuner Monster." Yuri continued as a portal appeared on his field, with his two Monsters emerging from it. "Then, I will tune the Level 4 Moray Nepenthes with the Level 3 Lilyzard!"

As Moray Nepenthes turned into four stars and Lilyzard turned into three rings surrounding them, Yuri chanted for the second time in a row.

"Noble predator wreathed in flames! Become the incarnation of ever-lasting desire and manifest on this battlefield! Synchro Summon! Descend now, Level 7! Predator Plants Orchidea Phoenix (ATK: 2500/DEF: 1900/LV: 7)!"

The Monster that resembled a cross between a giant bird and a carnivorous plant, which had violet flames generated from its wings, rear and head, appeared on Yuri's field.

"That's an impressive formation, but it's meaningless before my Lethal Pestilence Dragon." Yukio let out a sly smirk. "Through its effect, I will place a Pestilence Counter on your summoned Monsters. Asphodel Plague!"

Several spores were launched once again from Lethal Pestilence Dragon's body, embedding themselves into the bodies of Yuri's Monsters.

(Starve Venom ATK: 2800→0, Orchidea Phoenix ATK: 2500→0)

"Since there are two Fusion Monsters on my field, I can activate the Spell Card Fusion Catastrophe." Yuri declared. "Through its effect, I can destroy as many Special Summoned Monsters as I wish, including at least one Fusion Monster, on my field. Then, my opponent must destroy an equal number of Monsters on their field. In addition, effects that activate in response to our Monsters' destruction cannot be activated and I can draw a card from my Deck for every Fusion Monster I destroy. I choose to destroy Gaillarida Shamir and Chimera Rafflesia."

"No other choice but to destroy Lunar Glow Paladin and Lethal Pestilence Dragon…" Yukio narrowed his eyes as the designated Monsters vanished from each player's field. "However, Lethal Pestilence Dragon's effect still applies, meaning Starve Venom and Orchidea Phoenix are useless to you. Moreover, I activate the Trap Card Pendulum Awakening, whose effect allows me to Special Summon a face-up Pendulum Monster from my Extra Deck that can be Pendulum Summoned with my current Scale. Return to the field, Lunar Glow Paladin!"

A portal appeared on Yukio's field, with Lunar Glow emerging from it.

"Not bad, but I'm not finished just yet." Yuri's smile became wider. "It's time for a nostalgic reunion. Since a Fusion Monster on my field was destroyed, I can activate Doppel Fusion's effect in my Graveyard. Through it, I can banish it in order to perform a Fusion Summon by using Monsters from my field. I will fuse Starve Venom and Orchidea Phoenix!"

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

"Tainted wings carrying the unholy light! Emerge from the depths of the abyss as the harbinger of chaos and bring despair to all who oppose you! Fusion Summon! Come forth, Level 10! The lethal dragon called by calamity, Supreme King Terror Dragon – Clear Wing Venom Dragon (ATK: 3300/DEF: 3100/LV: 10)!"

The Monster with four transparent wings that had thorn-shaped crystals extending from them and a body resembling Starve Venom's, only with white-colored armor pieces attached to its forearms, forelegs, chest and head, appeared on Yuri's field, letting out an outraged howl.

"That Monster again…" Yukio said with a cramped smile. "This brings back some very bad memories."

"No surprise there, since this is the Monster that defeated you." Yuri smirked. "And history has a tendency of repeating itself. Now, let's battle! Clear Wing Venom Dragon, destroy Lunar Glow Paladin! At this moment, Venom Dragon's effect activates, reducing your Monster's attack to 0 and negating its effects! End this, Venom Dragon! Hellblaze Detonation Comet!"

"Sorry, but this won't go as you planned!" Yukio exclaimed. "Thanks to the effect of Pendulum Awakening, all damage I take from battles involving the summoned Monster s halved!"

Following Yukio's words, Clear Wing Venom Dragon's body was surrounded by eerie violet flames as it shot forward, slamming on Lunar Glow Paladin and sending it crashing on one of the statues, with Yukio being sent flying backwards and crashing on a nearby pillar due to the ensuing shockwave.

Yukio – LP: 2200→550

"Strange." Amon remarked. "Why didn't Yukio use Mirage Dragon's Pendulum Effect to shield his Monster?"

"From what I've heard, Venom Dragon has an effect that negates the activation of Spells and Traps during the Battle Phase, and also destroys all other Spells and Traps." Sora said. "Using Mirage Dragon's effect would have only resulted in its destruction."

"So close, and yet so far." Yuri said. "I place a card face-down and end my turn, which means your Pendulum cards' Scale Value also returns to normal (Persona Dragon SC: 5→1, Mirage Dragon SC: 12→8)."

[Looks like Yuri has taken the lead with his furious assault!] Nico exclaimed. [However, judging from his expression, I doubt Tachibana Yukio will take this lying down!]

"My turn!" Yukio announced. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Pot of Greed, whose effect allows me to draw two cards from my Deck. Then, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Revive from my Extra Deck, Clearwing Fast Dragon! And from my hand, come, Dharma-Eye Magician (ATK: 2000/DEF: 2500/LV: 7/SC: 2) and Despair Magician (ATK: 2500/DEF: 1400/LV: 7/SC: 2)!"

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

"I Overlay the Level 7 Dharma-Eye Magician and Despair Magician!" As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yukio chanted. "Dragon born from pitch-black darkness and obscured by the stars' radiance! Become the avatar of wrath and let your furious cry resonate across the cosmos! Xyz Summon! Appear now, Rank 7! Dark Anthelion Dragon (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500/R: 7/OU: 2)!"

Dark Anthelion appeared on Yukio's field, letting out a furious howl.

"I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Dark Anthelion's effect." Yukio declared. "Through it, I will halve Clear Wing Venom Dragon's attack, add the halved amount to Dark Anthelion's attack until the End Phase and gain an equal amount of Life Points. Do it, Dark Anthelion! Absorb Eclipse!"

Tendrils of darkness shot out of Dark Anthelion's wings, binding Clear Wing Venom Dragon and forcing it on its knees.

(Clear Wing Venom Dragon ATK: 3300→1650, Dark Anthelion ATK: 3000→4650)

Yukio – LP: 550→2200

"I'm not finished yet." Yukio continued. "I summon the Tuner Monster Synchronic Magician (ATK: 300/DEF: 100/LV: 1/SC: 8)!"

Synchronic Magician appeared on Yukio's field next to his other Monsters.

"I tune the Level 7 Clearwing with the Level 1 Synchronic Magician!" As Clearwing turned into seven stars and Synchronic Magician turned into a single ring surrounding them, Yukio chanted for the second time in a row. "Shining dragon with brilliant wings that carry the unbreakable bonds! Soar through the skies of freedom faster than light itself! Synchro Summon! Arise now, Level 8! Shinewing Rapid Dragon (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500/LV: 8/SC: 2)!"

The evolved form of Clearwing appeared on Yukio's field, circling the arena once before coming to hover above him.

"I activate Shinewing Rapid Dragon's effect, which allows me to equip a Monster on my opponent's field and have it gain attack equal to that Monster's original attack." Yukio declared. "I will take your Clear Wing Venom Dragon, Yuri! Connect Seizure!"

Several energy lines shot out of Shinewing's core, binding Venom Dragon and transforming it into an orb of energy that was absorbed by Shinewing.

(Shinewing ATK: 3000→6300)

[Uh-oh, looks like Yuri is in serious trouble!] Melissa announced. [If a single attack goes through, he's finished!]

"I overcame the Monster that defeated me last time, which leaves only overcoming you, Yuri." Yukio stated. "Now, let's battle! Shinewing Rapid Dragon, attack Yuri directly! Shining Edge of Convergence!"

"Oh, I don't think so." Yuri grinned. "I activate the Trap Card Predator Fort! Through its effect, when I'm about to receive a direct attack, I can reduce the damage I would receive from it to 0 and prevent you from inflicting any more damage to me! Looks like you still have a long way to go before taking me down, Yukio."

"Not as long as you think, Yuri." Yukio said. "I end my turn, with Dark Anthelion's attack returning to normal (Dark Anthelion ATK: 4650→3000)."

"It's my turn!" Yuri announced. "Draw! I activate the Trap Card Predator Planning. Through its effect, I will send Predator Plants Strelitzia Hawk (Dark/Plant/Effect/ATK: 100/DEF: 400/LV: 2) from my Deck to the Graveyard in order to place a Predator Counter on all Monsters my opponent controls. And since Monsters with Predator Counters are on the field, I can Special Summon Predator Plants Triphyovertum from my Graveyard!"

A fissure opened on Yuri's field, with Triphyovertum emerging from it.

"Next, I activate Strelizia Hawk's effect in my Graveyard." Yuri continued. "By banishing it, I can Special Summon a Dark-attribute Fusion Monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated. In exchange, I cannot Normal Summon or Set Monsters. Revive, Starve Venom!"

A portal appeared on Yuri's field, with Starve Venom emerging from it.

"Starve Venom and a Fusion Monster…" Ryo muttered. "Looks like his new ace is coming next."

"Using Starve Venom and Triphyovertum, I will perform a Contact Fusion!" As his two Monsters started swirling inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuri chanted. "Poisonous dragon with hungry fangs! Fiendish guardian of the twisted garden! Become one now and give birth to the incarnation of fury! Contact Fusion! Come forth, Level 10! Raging Venom Fusion Dragon (ATK: 3300/DEF: 3000/LV: 10)!"

The alternate evolved form of Starve Venom materialized on Yuri's field, letting out a furious howl.

"Raging Venom's effect activates." Yuri let out a sinister grin. "When this card is Fusion Summoned successfully, I can send all Monsters my opponent controls to the Graveyard, and then I can have this card gain 1000 attack and me draw a card from my Deck for every sent Monster. Sinister Rampage!"

Raging Venom howled as streams of blue flames erupted from the gems embedded on its body, engulfing Yukio's Monsters and vaporizing them, leaving his field bare.

(Raging Venom ATK: 3300→5300)

"Moreover, I activate the effect of Predator Planning in my Graveyard." Yuri declared. "On the turn I Fusion Summoned a Dark-attribute Monster, I can banish this card from my Graveyard in order to destroy a card on the field. I choose to destroy Odd-Eyes Mirage Dragon!"

[This is!] Nico shouted. [Tachibana Yukio's field is almost empty and he's facing a 5300 attack with no Action Cards in sight close to him! Could this be the end of the Duel!?]

"Let's find out, shall we?" Yuri said. "Battle! Raging Venom Fusion Dragon, attack Yukio directly and wipe out his Life Points! Devastation Stream of Wrath!"

"I activate the effect of Pendulum Awakening in my Graveyard!" Yukio exclaimed. "When I'm about to receive a direct attack, I can banish this card from my Graveyard in order to reduce the damage by an amount equal to the attack of the Monster summoned by this card's effect! Lunar Glow Paladin's attack was 3200, meaning the damage becomes 2100!"

Following Yukio's words, a wave of navy-colored energy erupted from Raging Dragon's maw, striking Yukio and sending him flying off the platform he was standing. Activating his Duel Anchor, he attached it on the blade of one of the statues, sailing across the air and landing on an elevated pillar on Yuri's left side.

Yukio – LP: 2200→100

[Safe!] Melissa exclaimed. [Yukio avoids an outright loss with a well-timed Trap, but his Life Points are but a candle in the wind now and his field has been decimated! Can he mount a successful counterattack under these circumstances!?]

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Yuri said. "At this moment, Raging Venom's attack returns to normal (Raging Venom ATK: 5300→3300)."

"That new Monster is no joke…" Yukio murmured. "Now then, it's my turn! Draw! I activate the Spell Card Magic Reconstruction, banishing Cycle of Rebirth from my Graveyard to copy its effects. As such, I will banish Odd-Eyes Mirage Dragon, Lethal Pestilence Dragon, Lunar Glow Paladin, Clearwing Fast Dragon and Shinewing Rapid Dragon in order to draw five cards from my Deck. Then, I activate the Spell Card Pre-Preparation of Rites, adding Karma Manifestation and Chaos Karma Ritual Dragon from my Deck to my hand through its effect."

"Hoh, so your ace Monster is coming?" Yuri smirked. "Looks like we're approaching the climax."

"I activate the Ritual Spell Card Karma Manifestation, sending Mystic Magician and Destiny Magician from my hand to the Graveyard as tributes in order to Ritual Summon!"

The altar surrounded by three dragon statues appeared on Yukio's field, with his Monsters turning into particles and being absorbed by the rightmost statue. As a pillar of azure flames erupted from the altar, Yukio chanted.

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

Yukio's ace Monster materialized on his field, letting out a howl at Raging Venom. Yuri's Monster responded in kind, snapping at Chaos Karma like a mad dog.

"There's a lot of hostility going on around here." Yukio chuckled as he patted his dragon's leg. "Don't worry, old friend. You'll have your chance soon enough. But first, Mystic Magician and Destiny Magician's effects activates. Since Mystic Magician was used as a tribute for a Ritual Summon while I controlled less Monsters than my opponent, I can draw a card from my Deck for every Monster my opponent controls, in this case one. As for Destiny Magician's effect, it also allows me to draw a card from my Deck when it's used as material for a Ritual Summon."

"That's all well and good, but Chaos Karma is still weaker than Raging Venom." Yuri pointed out. "Plus, Raging Venom cannot be targeted by card effects, so you can't use your dragon's effect on it."

"I'm aware, which is why I'll use this instead." Yukio said. "I activate the Equip Spell Card Chaos Providence, equipping it to Chaos Karma. Through its effect, my Monster's attack increases by 1000 (Chaos Karma ATK: 2800→3800). Now, let's battle! Chaos Karma Ritual Dragon, take down Raging Venom Fusion Dragon! Samsara Breath!"

A torrent of azure-colored flames erupted from Chaos Karma's maw, enveloping Raging Venom and incinerating it, with Yuri hissing in pain from the stray embers that struck him.

Yuri – LP: 1400→900

"Raging Venom's effect activates." Yuri said. "When it's destroyed, I can Special Summon one of its Fusion Materials from my Graveyard with its effects negated and make it unable to be targeted by card effects for the rest of this turn. Revive, Starve Venom in defense mode!"

A portal appeared on Yuri's field, with Starve Venom emerging from it. For some reason, Yukio could swear that the dragon had a smug look on his face. Next to him, Chaos Karma snarled as he turned to Yukio with a sharp look on his face.

"No, even if you tell me to crush him like a bug, the Battle Phase is already over, so it can't be helped." Yukio said to Chaos Karma, whose glare only seemed to get more intense as it growled. "Hey, scowl and cuss all you want, but that won't change. You'll have to wait for the next chance, you troublesome dragon. I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"What's wrong?" Yuri asked. "Trouble in paradise?"

"Chaos Karma has a bit of a vendetta against your dragon, and Starve Venom isn't making things better since he keeps provoking him." Yukio explained while rubbing his temples. "Understanding the intent of Duel Monsters is all well and good, but it gets really frustrating in situations like this one…"

"Even so, you're quite lucky." Yuri said. "Hearing Duel Monsters' voice is a privilege. I wish I could do the same."

"Maybe you can?" Yukio said. "All five of us were connected to Zarc, so maybe you can also hear everyone's voice if you try."

"Good point." Yuri said. "Then, I'll put some effort to it later. However, defeating you comes first. Now then, it's my turn! Draw! I summon Predator Plants Spino Dionaea (ATK: 1800/DEF: 0/LV: 4)!"

Spino Dionaea materialized on Yuri's field. At that time, the arena started shifting once again, forcing the two Duelists to start moving once again. Once the shifting ceased, both of them noticed that the arena had returned to its normal state.

"No Action Cards in sight? It suits me just fine. I activate Spino Dionaea's effect to place a Predator Counter on Chaos Karma." Yuri declared as a fanged spore was launched from the plant growing on Spino Dionaea's back and embedded itself in Chaos Karma's body. "And since there is a Monster with a Predator Counter on the field, I can Special Summon Triphyovertum from my Graveyard in defense mode!"

A fissure opened on the ground, with Triphyovertum emerging from it.

"Next, I activate the Spell Card Predator Graft, whose effect allows me to Summon a "Predator Plants" Monster from my Graveyard." Yuri continued. "Come, Predator Plants Sundew Kingii (ATK: 600/DEF: 200/LV: 2)!"

A portal appeared on Yuri's field, with Sundew Kingii emerging from it.

"I activate Sundew Kingii's effect, using it alongside Starve Venom as materials in order to Fusion Summon!" As his two Monsters started swirling inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuri chanted with his hands clasped in front of him. "Poisonous dragon with hungry fangs! Sweet-smelling flower that invites the abyss! Now become one, and indulge in whatever pleases you! Fusion Summon! Come forth, Level 10! Greedy Venom Fusion Dragon (ATK: 3300/DEF: 2500/LV: 10)!"

The evolved form of Starve Venom materialized on Yuri's field, letting out a resounding roar, with Chaos Karma matching it with one of his own.

"Looks like your dragon is looking forward to this." Yuri let out a sly smirk. "Too bad he won't get a chance to fight. Since your Chaos Karma has a Predator Counter, I will send it to the Graveyard along with Spino Dionaea in order to perform a Contact Fusion!"

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

"Captivating flower dwelling in the depths! Become one with the fate-subjugating dragon and revive the ruthless predator from ancient times! Contact Fusion! Come forth, Level 8! Predator Plants Archaeamphora Cerberus (ATK: 2600/DEF: 1800/LV: 8)!"

The large, three-headed dog which appeared to have fused with a carnivorous plant and had several pitchers extending from its body appeared on Yuri's field.

"Archaeamphora Cerberus's effect activates." Yuri stated. "Since it was summoned by using a non-"Predator Plants" Monster as material, I can increase its attack by an amount equal to half that Monster's attack on the field (Archaeamphora Cerberus ATK: 2600→4500)."

"You really like to use other people's belongings as you please, don't you?" Yukio remarked with an annoyed expression. "However, Chaos Providence's effect activates. Since the equipped Monster was sent to the Graveyard, I can add it to my hand along with the Ritual Spell Card used to Ritual Summon it, and then I can add a Ritual Monster from my Deck to my hand. I choose to add Disaster Karma Ritual Dragon to my hand."

"Good for you, but I wonder if you'll get the chance to use it." Yuri grinned. "Battle! Archaeamphora Cerberus, attack Yukio directly! Emerald Blaze!"

"Since my opponent controls more Monsters than I do, I can activate the Trap Card Battle Tendency!" Yukio exclaimed. "Through its effect, I will send three cards from the top of my Deck to the Graveyard to end the Battle Phase and prevent you from inflicting any effect damage to me!"

"Slippery as always." Yuri remarked. "But that's why you're worth defeating, Yukio. I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"It's my turn!" Yukio announced. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Karma Manifestation once again, sending Chaos Karma and Dowsing Magician from my hand to the Graveyard as tribute in order to Ritual Summon!"

The altar surrounded by the three dragon statues appeared once again on Yukio's field, with his Monsters being absorbed by the leftmost statue this time. As a pillar of dark blue flames erupted from the altar, Yukio chanted.

"Malevolent dragon that is the harbinger of calamity! Heed my prayer with this ritual and emerge from the chaos of indeterminacy to annihilate all that stands in your path! Ritual Summon! Descend now, Level 10! Disaster Karma Ritual Dragon (ATK: 3300/DEF: 2600/LV: 10)!"

The pillar of flames scattered as Disaster Karma emerged from it, letting out a resounding howl.

"I activate Disaster Karma Ritual Dragon's effect, which allows me to destroy all Level 5 or higher Monsters on the field and deal 400 points of damage to their controllers." Yukio declared. "Do it, Disaster Karma! Creation Purge!"

"I won't allow that." Yuri wagged his finger in a playful manner. "I activate the Trap Card Predator Embrace! Thanks to its effect, all Dark-attribute Monsters on my field cannot be destroyed for this turn! In exchange, their attack is reduced to 0 and their effects are negated until my next End Phase!"

"This means there's no point in attacking, and with three Fusion Monsters out, his final ace is probably coming next…" Yukio muttered. "I place two cards face-down and end my turn."

"Then, it's my turn!" Yuri announced. "Draw! Now then, it's time for my mightiest Monster to show its splendor once again. Using my three Fusion Monsters, I will perform a Triple Contact Fusion!"

As his three Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuri chanted with his hands clasped in front of him.

"Avaricious dragon with poisonous fangs! Beautiful flowers with an insect-alluring fragrance! Now become one with the Supreme King's heart within me and stand atop the summit of creation as the mightiest existence! Triple Contact Fusion! Appear, Level 12! The Supreme King Dominion Dragon – Prideful Venom Fusion Dragon (ATK: 4000/DEF: 3500/LV: 12)!"

The final form of Starve Venom on Yuri's field, letting out a furious roar.

"Prideful Venom…" Hayato remarked with a troubled expression. "Looks like the Duel is entering its final stage. Hang in there, son…"

"Prideful Venom's effect activates." Yuri continued. "When this card is summoned successfully, my opponent has to either send all their Monsters to their Graveyard or take damage equal to their Level multiplied by 200. I wonder what your choice will be."

"As if I have a choice here." Yukio snorted. "I'll send Disaster Karma to the Graveyard."

A fissure opened underneath Disaster Karma, with several vines erupting from it and entangling Disaster Karma, dragging him into the depths.

"However, my dragon won't be gone for long." Yukio smirked. "I activate the effect of Chaos Providence in my Graveyard. When a "Ritual Dragon" Monster leaves my field, I can banish this card to Special Summon it in attack position and make it unable to be targeted by my opponent's card effects. Revive once again, Disaster Karma!"

A wave of azure flames erupted from the fissure, burning away the vines. Immediately afterwards, Disaster Karma flew out of the chasm and came to hover in front of Yukio.

"Well played, but you're far from safe, Yukio." Yuri said. "I activate Prideful Venom's second effect, banishing Chaos Karma from your Graveyard in order to have my dragon gain its attack and effects (Prideful Venom ATK: 4000→6800). Then, I activate the effect Prideful Venom inherited from Chaos Karma to destroy your Disaster Karma and deal damage to you equal to half its attack! Do it, Prideful Venom! Atropos Slash!"

"I won't let you!" Yukio roared. "I activate the Continuous Trap Card Supreme King's Armor, equipping it to Disaster Karma! Through its effect, Disaster Karma cannot be destroyed by battle or card effects!"

Following Yukio's words, Prideful Venom's claws were elongated as it attempted to skewer Disaster Karma with them. However, several black armor pieces with green energy lines attached themselves on Disaster Karma's body, generating a forcefield that repelled Prideful Venom's attack.

"Alright then, we'll do this the old-fashioned way." Yuri declared. "Battle! Prideful Venom Fusion Dragon, attack Disaster Karma Ritual Dragon! Vainglorious Corrosion Burst!"

"I activate the Trap Card Reactive Armor!" Yukio exclaimed. "Through its effect, your Monster will be destroyed!"

"In that case, I'll pay half my Life Points to activate Raging Venom's effect in my Graveyard!" Yuri shouted. "Through it, I can equip it to Prideful Venom and prevent its destruction!"

The specter of Raging Venom appeared behind Prideful Venom, using its arms to shield it from the shockwave that erupted from Yukio's Trap Card. At the same time, Yuri winced as a crimson aura surrounded him.

Yuri – LP: 900→450

"The battle continues!" Yuri let out a wide smile as Prideful Venom opened its three mouths wide, unleashing three violet-colored blasts that converged into a massive beam. "Fall, Yukio!"

"No, not yet!" Yukio grinned. "I activate the effect of Null Magician in my Graveyard! By banishing it, the damage from this battle is reduced to 0!"

Following Yukio's words, Prideful Venom's blast collided with Disaster Karma, generating a massive explosion. However, once the smoke cleared, both Yukio and Disaster Karma were unharmed.

"Good job enduring my attack." Yuri praised Yukio. "I activate the Continuous Spell Card Seed of Destruction, whose effect allows me to target a Monster on my field and inflict damage to you equal to its Level multiplied by 200 during each of my Standby Phases. I target Prideful Venom for that effect. Then, I place a card face-down and end my turn."

[Tachibana Yukio may have managed to survive this turn, but he's in a big pinch right now!] Nico announced. [Unless he manages to settle things during this turn, it's very likely that he'll lose this Duel!]

"No cards on my hand and only one Monster on the field…" Yukio murmured. "This is difficult, but I have no choice but to do it. You haven't failed me yet, my Deck, so please don't start now. Now then…for better or for worse, this is my last turn! Draw!"

Yukio checked his drawn card, a small smile appearing on his face.

"Looks like I'll be able to pull though after all." Yukio remarked. "The Ritual Monster in my hand can be Special Summoned by banishing Karma Manifestation from my Graveyard and Ritual Monsters from my hand, field and/or Graveyard whose Levels are equal to or greater than its Level. I will banish Disaster Karma from my field and Dowsing Magician from my Graveyard to bring this Monster out! Appear, Level 10! High Paladin of Karma Dragon (Dark/Dragon/Ritual/Effect/ATK: ?/DEF: 3000/LV: 10)!"

A warrior clad in azure-colored armor with a dragon motif and three dragon heads attached to its torso and shoulders, which held an azure longsword in its right hand and had a shield attached to its left arm, emerged from a large magic circle that formed on the center on Yukio's field.

"A new Ritual Monster?" Yuri frowned. "Moreover, it has unknown attack?"

"Not for long." Yukio said. "Thanks to its effect, High Paladin of Karma Dragon's attack is equal to the attack of the Monsters used as tributes for its summon. Disaster Karma had 3300 attack and Dowsing Magician has 1900 attack, meaning my Monster's attack becomes 5200 (High Paladin of Karma Dragon (ATK: ?→5200)."

"That's an impressive amount of attack, but it still can't match Prideful Venom's attack." Hiyama remarked.

"That's true, but Yukio doesn't make wasteful moves." Akikhiro said. "I'm sure his Monster has some more surprises in store."

"I activate High Paladin of Karma Dragon's effect." Yukio declared. "Once during either player's turn, I can banish a Monster from my Deck or Graveyard in order to reduce the attack of an opponent's Monster by an amount equal to the banished Monster's attack. I will banish the 4000 attack Swaying Karma Ritual Dragon from my Deck to reduce Prideful Venom's attack by that amount. Authority Suppression!"

High Paladin of Karma Dragon raised its blade high, with a torrent of energy surrounding it. He then swung it, with the specter of Swaying Karma shooting out of it and engulfing Prideful Venom. Yuri's dragon let out a pained roar as burn marks appeared throughout its body.

(Prideful Venom ATK: 6800→2800)

"Now, the finale!" Yukio exclaimed. "High Paladin of Karma Dragon, destroy Prideful Venom Fusion Dragon! Godly Wrath Break!"

"I activate the Trap Card Dark Seed Bomber!" Yuri shouted. "Due to its effect, once during either player's turn, I can reduce the attack of a Dark-attribute Monster on my field by 800 in order to destroy a Monster on my opponent's field! I will reduce Prideful Venom's attack (Prideful Venom ATK: 2800→2000) in order to destroy High Paladin of Karma Dragon!"

Following Yuri's words, a large number of seeds surrounded by dark aura were shot out of his Trap Card, heading for High Paladin of Karma Dragon. Although Yukio's Monster dodged some and slashed others, he was unable to evade the barrage as his armor was shredded by the hail of seeds, resulting in its destruction.

"Looks like your final hope didn't amount to anything." Yuri remarked. "Such a shame."

"No, hope is still very much alive." Yukio smiled. "High Paladin of Karma Dragon's final effect activates! When this card is destroyed, I can Special Summon one of the Monsters that was banished through its effect by ignoring its summoning conditions. Come forth, Swaying Karma Ritual Dragon (ATK: 4000/DEF: 3300/LV: 12)!"

The final form of Chaos Karma emerged on Yukio's field from a large rift in space that appeared over the arena, letting out a triumphant howl that Prideful Venom matched with one of his own.

[How surprising!] Melissa shouted. [Even though Yukio's new Monster was taken down, he has turned the situation around by bringing out his dragon's final form!]

"This is the end!" Yukio declared. "Go, Swaying Karma Ritual Dragon! Take down Prideful Venom Fusion Dragon! Eightfold Blazing Burst!"

Eight oversized spheres of azure flames appeared around Swaying Karma, converging on its right arm. Letting out a thunderous howl, Swaying Karma charged forward. Although Prideful Venom attempted to block its attack, Swaying Karma was undeterred as its blazing claws tore through Prideful Venom's arm and chest. The ensuing explosion consumed Yuri's body, sending the young Duelist flying backwards.

Yuri – LP: 450→0

Yukio: WIN

[It's over!] Nico exclaimed as the crowd went wild. [The match has been settled! After a fierce fight, Tachibana Yukio emerges victorious and earns the right to advance to the final round!]

"That bastard's done it again!" Hiyama said while grinning. "Good going, Yukio!"

"Nothing less expected from him." Oboro remarked with a satisfied smile. "He must be pretty happy to settle the score."

"Well done, Yukio." Otoha said as Mamoru, Nene and Hayato were cheering alongside the You Show group. "There was never any doubt in my mind that you could do it."

"You fought well, Yuri." Ryo said. "Take pride in that, and learn from your defeat so you can grow stronger."

"So, I lost…" Yuri remarked as Yukio helped him up, the arena around them turning into particles of light and disappearing. "Somehow, it doesn't feel as bad as I thought it would be. However, next time, I'll be the winner, so you'd better prepare yourself, Yukio."

"I'm ready to take you on anytime you wish, Yuri." Yukio smiled. "Of course, you have to complete your rehabilitation program first so that you are no longer under house arrest…"

"I know, I know." Yuri made a dismissive gesture. "Ryo-senpai has already lectured me about this, so I'll behave. I'm starting to get sick and tired of being cooped inside, and this seems to be the fastest way out."

"Good boy." Yukio ruffled Yuri's hair, causing the latter to let out an annoyed growl. "Now then, are we supposed to get back to the stadium?"

[That's right.] Reiji's voice came from both youths' Duel Disks. [Yukio, Nakajima will lead you to the waiting room you'll be using until the finals start. As for you, Yuri, you can go anywhere you wish.]

"In that case, I guess I'll join the others." Yuri said before turning his sights at the Action Field on the other side of the Stadium. "It's Yuya and Yuto's turn next, right? Who do you think will be your opponent in the finals?"

"My money's on Yuya, but I wouldn't count Yuto out." Yukio said. "They've shared a body for a brief amount of time, so Yuto must be somewhat familiar with Yuya's strategies. It will be an uphill battle for Yuya for sure."

"Either way, it should be an interesting match."

Yuri said. Yukio nodded as the two youths made their way inside the stadium, making small talk along the way.

---

Card Corner

Predator Plants Gaillarida Shamir

ATK: 2600, DEF: 1750, R:4

Dark/Plant/Xyz/Effect

2 Level 4 "Predator Plants" Monsters

Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can detach an Xyz Material from this card to place a Predator Counter on all Monsters your opponent controls. Each time a Monster with a Predator Counter leaves the field, gain 600 Life Points and draw a card from your Deck. Once per turn, when this card battles a Monster with a Predator Counter while it has Xyz Materials attached to it, you can destroy that Monster before damage calculation and deal damage to your opponent equal to half its ATK.

Predator Plants Strelitzia Hawk

ATK: 100, DEF: 400, LV: 2

Dark/Plant/Effect

Monster Effect: If this card is in your Graveyard, you can banish it; Special Summon a DARK Fusion Monster from you Graveyard with its effects negated. You cannot Normal Summon or Set Monsters on the turn you used this effect.

High Paladin of Karma Dragon

ATK: ?, DEF: 3000, LV: 10

Dark/Dragon/Ritual/Effect

Monster Effect: This card can be Special Summoned from your hand by banishing Karma Manifestation along with Ritual Monsters whose Level is equal to or more than this card's Level from your hand, field and/or Graveyard, and then make its ATK equal to the combined original ATK of those Monsters (this Special Summon is treated as a Ritual Summon). This card cannot be destroyed by battle. Once per turn, you can banish a Monster from your Deck or Graveyard; reduce the ATK of an opponent's Monster by an amount equal to that Monster's ATK. When this card is destroyed, you can Special Summon one of the Monsters banished by its effect from your banish zone by ignoring its summoning conditions.

Predator Synthesis

Normal Spell Card

Activate this card if you control no Monsters. Target a "Predator Plants" Fusion Monster in your Extra Deck and send up to three random "Predator Plants" from your Deck to the Graveyard. If the sent Monsters can be used as materials for the targeted Monster's Fusion Summon, Special Summon it from your Extra Deck and treat it as having been Fusion Summoned, and then draw a card from your Deck. You cannot summon other Monsters on the turn you activated this card.

Vision Barrier

Action Card

Monsters on your field cannot be targeted by card effects for this turn.

Paragon Downgrade

Quick-Play Spell Card

Activate this card if you control at least two Monsters that were Special Summoned from the Extra Deck. Destroy those Monsters and Special Summon Monsters from the Extra Deck with the same summoning type as the destroyed Monsters but with a lower Level by ignoring their summoning conditions and treating them as having been summoned properly. Your opponent receives no damage from battles involving these Monsters.

Oscillation Booster

Normal Spell Card

Increase the Scale Value of both cards in your Pendulum Zone up to 4 until your opponent's next End Phase.

Doppel Fusion

Normal Spell Card

Banish a "Fusion" Spell Card from your Graveyard and have this card copy its effects. If a Fusion Monster on your field is destroyed, you can banish this card from your Graveyard; Fusion Summon a Fusion Monster from your Extra Deck by using Monsters on your field as materials.

Fusion Catastrophe

Normal Spell Card

Activate this card if you control two or more Fusion Monsters on your field. Destroy as many Special Summoned Monsters on your field, including at least one Fusion Monster, as you wish, and then your opponent must destroy an equal number of Monsters on their field. You can draw a card from your Deck for every Fusion Monster you destroyed. Cards and effects that activate in response to those Monsters' destruction aren't activated.

Chaos Providence

Normal Spell Card

Equip this card on a "Ritual Dragon" Monster you control; increase its ATK by 1000 and prevent its destruction from card effects. If this card is sent from the field to the Graveyard because the equipped Monster was sent to the Graveyard, you can add the equipped Monster to your hand along with Karma Manifestation, and then you can add a Ritual Monster from your Deck to your hand. If a Ritual Monster on your field is sent to the Graveyard, you can banish this card; Special Summon that Monster and make it unable to be targeted by your opponent's card effects for the rest of this turn.

Seed of Destruction

Normal Spell Card

Target a DARK Monster on your field; inflict damage to your opponent equal to its Level x 200 during each of your Standby Phases as long as it remains face-up on your field. If this card is destroyed, deal damage to your opponent equal to half the targeted Monster's ATK.

Attack Limit

Action Trap

You can only attack with one Monster during this turn's Battle Phase.

Pendulum Awakening

Normal Trap Card

Special Summon a face-up Pendulum Monster from your Extra Deck which can be Pendulum Summoned by using your current Pendulum Scale. All damage you receive from battles involving it is halved. If you would receive damage from a direct attack, you can banish this card from your Graveyard; reduce that damage by an amount equal to the ATK of the Monster summoned through this card's effect.

Predator Embrace

Normal Trap Card

All DARK Monsters on your field cannot be destroyed for the rest of this turn, but their ATK becomes 0 and their effects are negated until your next End Phase.

Dark Seed Bomber

Continuous Trap Card

Once during either player's turn, you can reduce the attack of a DARK Monster on your field by 800, and then destroy a Monster on your opponent's field.

This concludes Chapter 83. The first semifinal match had Yukio confronting Yuri. In the end, Yukio managed to overcome Yuri and settle the score from last time. I hope the Duel turned out alright, because the past couple of weeks were rather stressful and I'm not really sure about the quality. The next chapter will, of course, cover Yuya and Yuto's Duel, so look forward to it.

That's all for now. As always, please read, review, favorite and follow.

See you all next time!