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)

84. Maiami Championship Semifinals II

Greetings, community! Dvdryms here with Chapter 84. Hope you enjoy it!

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Chapter 84 – Maiami Championship Semifinals II

"Yukio won against Yuri, eh? Good for him. That means I might get to fight him next if I manage to defeat Yuya here…"

Yuto remarked as he stood in front of the recreation of Heartland Tower within the Action Field. Although the city before him was a faithful reproduction of the once ruined metropolis, Yuto couldn't help but feel it was unable to capture Heartland's true splendor.

"Well, I suppose it can't be helped."

Yuto let out a small smile as he tapped the wall of the tower. At that moment, the sound of approaching footsteps from his right snapped him out of his thoughts. Turning towards that direction, Yuto saw his opponent approaching him with slow and steady steps.

"You're here, Yuya."

"Hey, Yuto…"

"What's wrong?" Yuto asked, confused by his opponent's lack of usual enthusiasm. "You seem troubled. Don't tell me…the confession didn't go well? Or rather, did you properly confess?"

"I did, but Yuzu's response was…well, it was kind of vague." Yuya said while frowning. "I'm not really sure how I should take it."

"That's a story I'd love to hear in detail, but we're in the middle of something here." Yuto said. "Don't make this more difficult for yourself by being distracted. It's bad enough that you're fighting on my home turf and I had a front seat during most of your Duels while inhabiting your body."

"You may be familiar with my tactics and thought process, but my skills have grown since then." Yuya let out a confident smile. "I'm not the same Duelist I was when I first entered the Dimensional War."

"That makes two of us." Yuto said. "Looks like you're all set and ready to go. However, why don't we make this a bit more interesting?"

"Interesting how?"

"Let's make this match a Riding Duel." Yuto suggested. "I never really had a chance to participate in one, at least not while I was in possession of my body. What do you say?"

"No problems here." Yuya said. "Riding Duel or not, I'm still going to come out on top of this."

[Oh, it appears the two Duelists have agreed on conducting a Riding Duel!] Melissa exclaimed. [Looks like we're going to have one final contest of speed before the tournament's end!]

[Since this is a city stage with interconnected roads, there won't be a preplanned course this time!] Nico continued. [Of course, that makes the search for Action Cards even more difficult since they may be concealed in smaller side roads, requiring one to make detours in order to discover them!]

Following Nico's words, two hoverplanes appeared above the field, lowering two D-Wheels to the ground. One was Yuya's, while the other was a black-colored D-Wheel with a dark blue finish and two mandible-shaped protrusions extending from the front. Both Yuya and Yuto wasted no time mounting their D-Wheels and putting their helmets on.

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

Both D-Wheels materialized their energy blades as their riders revved them up. Once the countdown that had appeared before the two Duelists reached zero, Melissa shouted.

[Riding Duel, acceleration!]

Both Duelists shot forward following these words and shouted together.

[Duel!]

Yuya – LP: 4000

Yuto – LP: 4000

[And there they go!] Melissa announced. [As usual, whoever takes the first corner will also take the first turn! Now then, who shall come on top in this opening bout!?]

Both Yuya and Yuto were neck-and-neck, revving up their D-Wheels to the limit in an attempt to overtake the other. However, in the end, Yuto's inexperience, which caused his D-Wheel to wobble as he struggled to keep his balance, gave Yuya the opportunity to overtake him, taking the first corner.

"It's my turn!" Yuya announced. "Draw! I summon Entermate Warrior Tiger (ATK: 1700/DEF: 500/LV: 4)!"

The Monster resembling a humanoid tiger clad in a performer's outfit appeared on Yuya's field.

"Since an "Entermate" Monster was summoned on my field, I can Special Summon this card from my hand." Yuya continued. "Appear, Entermate Helpprincess (ATK: 1200/DEF: 1200/LV: 4)!"

The female Monster clad in a violet outfit and holding a staff with a large hand on its tip materialized on Yuya's field.

"I Overlay my two Level 4 Monsters!" As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuya chanted. "Dragon with the dichromatic eyes! Erase everything before you with the relentless flames of chaos and tear apart the proud with your fearsome claws! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 4! Odd-Eyes Extremis Dragon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/R: 4/OU: 2)!"

The dragon with dual-colored eyes, orange body and mechanical wings reminiscent of Dark Rebellion's materialized on Yuya's field, letting out a furious howl.

"Since there is a Monster Special Summoned from my Extra Deck on my field, I can Special Summon this card from my hand by targeting that Monster." Yuya stated. "Appear, Entermate Orcrustra (Water/Aqua/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 0/DEF: 2100/LV: 5/SC: 2) in defense mode!"

A Monster resembling a crab with a small keyboard in front of it appeared on Yuya's field.

"Orcrustra's effect activates." Yuya said. "Through it, the targeted Monster gains 500 attack (Extremis Dragon ATK: 2500→3000) and I can draw a card from my Deck. However, the targeted Monster cannot attack for this turn. Then, I place a card face-down and end my turn."

[Sakaki Yuya has made a solid opening play!] Nico exclaimed. [Now, how will Yuto respond to this!?]

"It's my turn!" Yuto announced. "Draw! First, I place a card face-down. Since there is a card in my Spell/Trap Zone, I can Special Summon this Monster through its effect. Appear, Phantom Knights Dusk Mantle (ATK: 900/DEF: 1500/LV: 3)!"

Dusk Mantle materialized on Yuto's field, letting out a sinister chuckle.

"Dusk Mantle's effect activates since it was summoned through its effect, allowing me to add a Level 4 or lower "Phantom Knights" Monster from my Deck to my hand." Yuto continued. "I choose Phantom Knights Ragged Glove and summon it (ATK: 1000/DEF: 500/LV: 3)!"

Ragged Glove appeared on Yuto's field next to Dusk Mantle.

"I activate the Spell Card Phantom Knights' Promotion, increasing the Level of all "Phantom Knights" Monsters on my field by 1 (Dusk Mantle LV: 3→4, Ragged Glove LV: 3→4)." Yuto declared. "Then, I Overlay my two Level 4 Monsters!"

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

"Savage souls of fallen braves thirsting for carnage! Become the stalwart vanguard against the encroaching tide of darkness! Xyz Summon! Emerge now, Rank 4! Phantom Knights Bloodstained Bardiche (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2100/R: 4/OU: 2)!"

The Monster clad in weather black armor with crimson marks on it and blue flames surrounding its joints, which held a sinister-looking bardiche with drops of blood dripping from it, appeared on Yuto's field.

"Ragged Glove's effect activates, increasing Bardiche's attack by 1000 (Bloodstained Bardiche ATK: 2500→3500)." Yuto stated. "Now, let's battle! Bloodstained Bardiche, destroy Odd-Eyes Extremis Dragon! Phantom Execute!"

As Bloodstained Bardiche prepared to charge, Yuya made a sharp turn into a side road, grabbing an Action Card placed on top of a dumpster. However, his expression morphed into a frown upon seeing what it was.

"Curtain Call, eh?" Yuya remarked. "I can't use its effect here, but I can do this instead! I activate the Trap Card Break Away! During the Battle Phase, I can send a Spell Card from my hand to the Graveyard, in this case the Action Card I picked up, in order to end the Battle Phase and negate the effects of all Monsters on the field until the end of this turn!"

"It was a failure, huh?" Yuto smiled. "That's alright. The battle has just begun after all. I end my turn."

"My turn!" Yuya announced as he accelerated, passing Yuto. "Draw! Using the Scale 2 Dragoncaller Magician (ATK: 2400/DEF: 1700/LV: 7/SC: 2) and the Scale 8 Entermate Card Gardna (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1000/LV: 3/SC: 8), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

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

"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 3 through 7." Yuya declared. "However, I won't be doing that just yet. First, I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Pendulum Omniforce. Through its effect, I can increase the attack of all Monsters on my field by an amount equal to the Scale Value sum of the two Monsters in my Pendulum Zone multiplied by 300 until the End Phase. However, Pendulum Summoned Monsters affected by this effect cannot declare an attack. Since the Scale Value sum is 10, my Monsters gain 3000 attack!"

Following Yuya's words, his two Monsters were surrounded by a multi-colored aura.

(Extremis Dragon ATK: 3000→6000, Entermate Orcrustra ATK: 0→3000)

"I switch Entermate Orcrustra to attack position." Yuya continued. "Now, let's battle! Odd-Eyes Extremis Dragon, take down Bloodstained Bardiche! Plasma Vice Grip!"

"I activate Bloodstained Bardiche's effect!" Yuto exclaimed. "By detaching an Overlay Unit, I can double its attack and prevent it from being destroyed by card effects! Mad Enhancement!"

"Before that, I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Extremis Dragon's effect!" Yuya shouted. "Through it, your Monster loses 500 attack for every Pendulum Monster I control! Extremis Afterburner!"

Extremis Dragon's wings opened up, releasing streams of flames that enveloped Bloodstained Bardiche. At the same time, Yuto's Monster was enveloped by a crimson aura.

(Bloodstained Bardiche ATK: 3500→3000→6000)

"The battle continues." Yuya stated. "And since both Monsters have equal attack, they will both be destroyed!"

Both Bloodstained Bardiche and Extremis Dragon started exchanging blows, claw clashing against bardiche. Slipping past Bloodstained Bardiche's guard, Extremis Dragon sank its fiery claws into Yuto's Monster. At the same time, Bloodstained Bardiche raised its weapon high and smashed it into Extremis Dragon's chest plate. Both Monsters were enveloped in a large explosion that consumed their bodies.

"Since Extremis Dragon was destroyed, its effect activates, allowing me to add an "Odd-Eyes" Monster from my Deck or Graveyard to my hand." Yuya said. "I will add Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon from my Deck to my hand. Then, Entermate Orcrustra will attack you directly, Yuto!"

"That won't happen!" Yuto said. "I activate the Trap Card Phantom Knights Fury Blaze! Through its effect, I will destroy the opponent's Monster with the lowest attack and deal 600 points of damage to them!"

A stream of dark blue flames erupted from Yuto's Trap Card, enveloping Orcrustra's body and destroying it. A few stray embers struck Yuya's body, causing him to hiss in pain.

Yuya – LP: 4000→3400

"Looks like the first assault has failed and all of Yuya's Monsters are gone." Gongenzaka remarked. "However, I, the man Gongenzaka, know that Yuya won't back down from just this much."

"With the Battle Phase's end, Pendulum Omniforce's effect activates." Yuya stated. "Since all Monsters affected by its effect were destroyed, I can draw a card from my Deck. Next, I will use my Pendulum Scale in order to Pendulum Summon! Revive from the Extra Deck, Entermate Orcrustra in defense mode! And from my hand, come, Entermate Drumming Kong (ATK: 1600/DEF: 900/LV: 5/SC: 2) in defense mode and the wondrous dragon with beautiful, dichromatic eyes, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7/SC: 4)!"

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

"Nice!" Sawatari cheered. "Yuya managed to build a decent formation despite the first setback. As expected from my number one rival!"

"I end my turn with that." Yuya said. "Now, bring it on, Yuto!"

"My turn!" Yuto announced. "Draw! Using the Scale 1 Phantom Knights Soul Reaver (ATK: 1600/DEF: 2200/LV: 6/SC: 1) and the Scale 6 Phantom Knights Burial Shroud (ATK: 500/DEF: 900/LV: 2/SC: 6), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

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

"Thanks to the Pendulum Effect of Burial Shroud, I can Pendulum Summon a number of "Phantom Knights" Monsters from my Graveyard equal to the number of Monsters my opponent controls minus one." Yuto declared. "Wandering souls of fallen braves! Be guided by the trail of light drawn by the Pendulum and revive here on this battlefield! Phantom Pendulum! Arise, Dusk Mantle and Ragged Glove!"

A dark portal appeared on the ground before Yuto, with two beams of light shooting out of it and solidifying into the form of Monsters upon landing on the field.

"Phantom Pendulum, eh?" Yuya smiled as he brought his D-Wheel next to Yuto's. "How nostalgic. I was very surprised and once again reminded that Pendulum holds infinite possibilities when I saw you do that in Heartland."

"This power wouldn't have been possible with you." Yuto smiled back. "It's the proof of our bond, which is why it's fitting to use it here. Now, I Overlay my two Level 3 Monsters!"

As his two Monsters turned into a stream 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: 1000/R: 3/OU: 2)!"

The headless warrior whose lower half was that of a horse and held a broken blade appeared on Yuto's field.

"Ragged Glove's effect activates, increasing my Monster's attack by 1000 (Break Sword ATK: 2000→3000)." Yuto continued. "Now, let's battle! Break Sword, take down Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! Decapitation Strike!"

"I activate Drumming Kong's effect!" Yuya exclaimed. "Once per turn, when a Monster I control battles an opponent's Monster, I can increase that Monster's attack by 600 (Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon ATK: 2500→3100)! That means Break Sword is the one that's going down!"

"That won't happen!" Yuto said. "I activate the effect of Fury Blaze in my Graveyard! Thanks to it, when a "Phantom Knights" Monster on my field battles an opponent's Monster with a higher attack that it, I can banish this card to increase my Monster's attack by 600 until the End Phase (Break Sword ATK: 3000→3600)! Therefore, my Monster is still stronger! Do it, Break Sword! Decapitation Strike!"

Break Sword charged at Odd-Eyes and swung its blade, severing the dragon's head with a single strike and destroying it. The ensuing shockwave caused Yuya to wince as he struggled to retain control of his D-Wheel.

Yuya – LP: 3400→2900

"My card's effect hasn't finished." Yuto continued. "If the Monster affected by Fury Blaze's effect destroyed an opponent's Monster, I can banish another Monster from their field. I will banish Drumming Kong."

A pillar of blue flames erupted underneath Drumming Kong, incinerating the Monster in a manner of seconds.

"I place my turn and end my turn." Yuto said. "At this moment, Break Sword's attack also returns to normal (Break Sword ATK: 3600→3000)."

"He's not bad, that Yuto guy." Gloria remarked. "If we had to face him when we attacked Heartland, things might have turned out differently for us."

"Maybe, but Yuya isn't going all out yet." Grace pointed out. "Once he does, Yuto won't know what hit him."

"That goes for Yuto as well." Kaito commented from the side. "Both of them are still feeling each other out. From this point on, things are going to get more heated."

"It's my turn!" Yuya announced. "Draw! First, it's time for yet another Pendulum Summon! Revive from the Extra Deck, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! And from my hand, come, Entermate Starve Venom Ringmaster (ATK: 1000/DEF: 2600/LV: 7/SC: 2)!"

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

"I activate Starve Venom Ringmaster's effect." Yuya declared. "Once per turn, I can perform a Fusion Summon by using this card and a Monster on my field as materials. I will use Starve Venom Ringmaster and Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon as materials to Fusion Summon!"

As his two Monsters started swirling inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuya chanted with his hands clasped in front of him.

"Dragon with the dual-colored eyes! Become one with the poisonous entertainer and transform into the power that leads to supremacy! Fusion Summon! Appear, Level 10! The shining dragon with sympathetic eyes, Supreme King Violet Dragon – Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon (ATK: 3300/DEF: 2500/LV: 10/SC: 1)!"

The Monster resembling a fusion between Odd-Eyes and Starve Venom materialized on Yuri's field, letting out a sonorous roar.

"This time, it's Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon, eh?" Yuto grimaced. "I didn't expect such a formidable opponent would show up so soon…"

"Starve Venom Ringmaster's effect activates, allowing me to banish it in order to draw a card from my Deck since it was used as Fusion Material." Yuya continued. "Next, Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon's effect activates, allowing it to gain attack equal to the combined attack of all Monsters my opponent controls until the End Phase (Venom Dragon ATK: 3300→6300). Then, I release Entermate Orcrustra to Advance Summon Entermate King Bear (Earth/Beast-Warrior/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 2200/DEF: 1600/LV: 6/SC: 7)!"

A Monster resembling a bear clad in a royal outfit and wearing a crown appeared on Yuya's field.

"Battle!" Yuya exclaimed. "Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon, destroy Phantom Knights Break Sword! Spiral Venom Crusher!"

Venom Dragon opened its maw wide as streams of energy were emitted from the edge of its wings, unleashing a massive energy blast that enveloped Break Sword.

"I activate the Trap Card Phantom Knights Dread Escutcheon!" Yuto shouted as the beam approached him. "Through its effect, I can reduce the damage from this battle to 0!"

A sinister-looking escutcheon appeared on Yuto's field, shielding him from the incoming blast.

"Dread Escutcheon's effect also allows me to draw a card from my Deck for every 2000 points of damage I would have taken, meaning I can draw one card from my Deck." Yuto continued. "Furthermore, Break Sword's effect activates. When it's destroyed, I can Special Summon its materials from my Graveyard as Level 4 Monsters. Revive, Dusk Mantle and Ragged Glove in defense mode!"

Two portals appeared on Yuto's field, with his two Monsters emerging from them.

"My Battle Phase isn't over yet." Yuya pointed out. "Moreover, for its duration, King Bear gains 100 attack for every "Entermate" card on the field (King Bear ATK: 2200→2400). Go, Entermate King Bear! Destroy Ragged Glove! Royal Rampage!"

King Bear's claws extended as it rushed forward, shredding Ragged Glove to pieces with ease. At the same time, Yuya noticed a card embedded on the side of a building and quickly grabbed it.

"Not bad." Yuya remarked. "I activate the Action Spell Wonder Chance, allowing my Monster to attack once again. Destroy his remaining Monster, King Bear!"

The previous scene was repeated once again as King Bear's claws shredded Dusk Mantle with ease.

"With the Battle Phase's end, King Bear's attack returns to normal (King Bear ATK: 2400→2200)." Yuya said. "I end my turn, with Venom Dragon's attack also returning to normal (Venom Dragon ATK: 6300→3300)."

"My turn!" Yuto announced. "Draw! Since I control no Monsters, I can use the effect of the Tuner Monster Phantom Knights Broken Wheel (ATK: 100/DEF: 400/LV: 2) in my hand in order to Special Summon it along with an Xyz Monster from my Graveyard. I choose Bloodstained Bardiche!"

Broken Wheel materialized on Yuto's field following his words, with a portal opening next to it, out of which Bloodstained Bardiche emerged.

"Next, I activate Rank-Up-Magic Exaltation Force, whose effect allows me to use a "Phantom Knights" Xyz Monster on my field as material in order to Xyz Summon a "Phantom Knights" Xyz Monster from my Extra Deck that's two Ranks higher than it." Yuto continued. "I will use Bloodstained Bardiche as material to reconstruct the Overlay Network!"

As Bloodstained Bardiche 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, pointing its weapon at Yuya.

"I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Chipped Lance's effect." Yuto declared. "Through it, I can destroy a Monster on my opponent's field and deal damage to them equal to its Level or Rank multiplied by 300. I choose to destroy Venom Dragon. Dark Advent!"

"This isn't good!"

Yuya grimaced as he accelerated. Spotting an Action Card placed on the underside of an upcoming bridge, Yuya maneuvered his D-Wheel towards the side of the wall and accelerated, riding it to the underside and grabbing the Action Card placed there.

"Perfect!" Yuya grinned. "I activate the Action Spell Mirror Barrier, whose effect prevents Venom Dragon from being destroyed by card effects!"

The wave of energy that erupted from the tip of Chipped Lance's weapon struck a barrier that had enveloped Venom Dragon, dispersing harmlessly.

"Not bad, but will you be able to stop this?" Yuto said. "Thanks to Broken Wheel's effect, I can perform a Synchro Summon by using Xyz Monsters on my field as materials, treating their Rank as Level. As such, I will tune the Rank 6 Chipped Lance, which is treated as a Level 6 Monster, with the Level 2 Broken Wheel!"

As Chipped Lance turned into six black stars and Broken Wheel turned into two rings surrounding them, Yuto chanted for the second time in a row.

"Dance wildly on this chaotic battlefield, unappeased rampaging warrior! Let the rage of the fallen be channeled through your blade and slash apart the darkness! Synchro Summon! Manifest, Level 8! Phantom Knights Berserk Longsword (ATK: 3200/DEF: 2600/LV: 8)!"

The warrior clad in navy-colored armor with a dark, tattered cape extending from its back and blue flames where its eyes should be, which held an ornate longsword with several crimson runes inscribed on it and had chains extending from various parts of its body, appeared on Yuto's field.

"Here it is." Byron remarked. "Yuto's Synchro Monster. Yuya will be in big trouble if he can't defend against it somehow."

"Berserk Longsword's effect activates." Yuto declared. "If Xyz Monsters were used as materials for its Synchro Summon, I can place a Wraith Counter on it for every two Ranks the Xyz Monster with the highest Rank had. Since that Monster was the Rank 6 Chipped Lance, it gains three Wraith Counters (Wraith Counter: 0→3). Next, I activate Berserk Longsword's second effect. Once per turn, I can banish an Xyz Monster from my Graveyard and add half its attack to Berserk Longsword's attack until the End Phase. In exchange, my Monster will lose attack equal to the banished Monster's attack during my opponent's turn until their End Phase. I choose to banish the 2500 Bloodstained Bardiche."

Following Yuto's words, Berserk Longsword raised its blade high, with the spirit of Bloodstained Bardiche appearing behind it and being absorbed into the blade.

(Berserk Longsword ATK: 3200→4450)

"Battle!" Yuto exclaimed. "Berserk Longsword, take down Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon! Vengeful Demon Sword – Madness Flame!"

As Berserk Longsword's blade was surrounded by dark flames, Yuya noticed that an unmanned car was approaching the two Duelists, an Action Card placed on the driver's window. Just as Yuya tried to head towards it, Yuto slammed his D-Wheel on his, briefly sending him spinning out of control. Taking advantage of this, Yuto grabbed the Action Card with a swift motion, grimacing as the side of his D-Wheel grinded against the side of the car.

[Oh, nice catch!] Melissa remarked. [That was a nasty place to have an Action Card, but Yuto paid no heed to it and claimed it! Now Yuya's options are limited!]

"The battle continues!" Yuto declared. "Go, Berserk Longsword!"

Berserk Longsword swung its blade, splitting Venom Dragon's body in half, with each half catching on fire and vaporizing. Yuya let out a pained groan as he was struck by the ensuing shockwave.

Yuya – LP: 2900→1750

"Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon's effect activates." Yuya stated. "If this card is destroyed, I can Special Summon a Pendulum Monster from my Pendulum Zone and place this card in my Pendulum Zone. Then, I can destroy all Monsters my opponent controls and deal damage to them equal to their attack on the field. I choose to Special Summon Dragoncaller Magician in defense mode, but more importantly, your Monster will be destroyed, Yuto!"

"No, it won't." Yuto smirked. "I activate the Action Spell Copy Action, whose effect allows me to copy the effect of an Action Card in my opponent's Graveyard. I will copy the effect of Mirror Barrier, meaning my Monster won't be destroyed by Venom Dragon's effect!"

Following Yuto's words, Dragoncaller Magician emerged from the pillar of light and landed on Yuya's field, with Venom Dragon taking its place. At the same time, a storm of petals enveloped Yuto's field, but failed to affected Berserk Longsword due to a barrier that appeared around it.

"We're not done yet." Yuto said. "I activate Berserk Longsword's effect, removing a Wraith Counter (Wraith Counter: 3→2) to allow it to attack once again since it destroyed an opponent's Monster. Take down King Bear, Berserk Longsword!"

Berserk Longsword swung its blade, unleashing a crescent-shaped stream of black flames that enveloped King Bear, vaporizing it.

"I activate Venom Dragon's Pendulum Effect!" Yuya shouted. "Once during either player's turn, I can reduce an instance of battle damage to 0!"

"In that case, I activate Berserk Longsword's effect once again, removing a Wraith Counter (Wraith Counter: 2→1) to have my Monster attack your Dragoncaller Magician, Yuya!"

The previous scene was repeated once again, with Dragoncaller Magician falling victim to Berserk Longsword's blade as well.

"With this, your field is wide open." Yuto remarked. "I remove the last Wraith Counter (Wraith Counter: 1→0) to have Berserk Longsword attack you directly, Yuya! Vengeful Demon Sword – Madness Flame!"

"In that case, I activate the effect of Pendulum Omniforce in my Graveyard!" Yuya shouted. "By banishing it when my opponent's Monster declares a direct attack, I can Special Summon a Pendulum Monster face-up from my Extra Deck with its effects negated and its attack and defense at 0! Come, King Bear in defense mode!"

A portal appeared on Yuya's field, with King Bear emerging from it. Immediately afterwards, Yuto's Monster swung its blade, cleanly bisecting it and destroying it.

[That was close!] Nico exclaimed. [Sakaki Yuya barely managed to escape from the jaws of defeat, but has incurred heavy losses in exchange!]

"Close, but not quite that close." Yuto remarked. "I place a card face-down and end my turn, with Berserk Longsword's attack returning to normal (Berserk Longsword ATK: 4450→3200)."

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

"At this moment, Berserk Longsword's effect activates." Yuto said. "Since it used its attack-increasing effect, it loses attack equal to the attack of the Xyz Monster banished through its effect (Berserk Longsword ATK: 3200→700) until the end of this turn."

"That's good, but it doesn't matter either way." Yuya said. "First, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Revive from the Extra Deck, Entermate Orcrustra in defense mode, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, Dragoncaller Magician and Entermate King Bear!"

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

"I activate Dragoncaller Magician's effect, which allows me to treat its attribute as Dragon until the end of my turn." Yuya stated. "Then, I Overlay the Level 7 Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon and Dragoncaller Magician!"

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 an outraged howl.

"Since you brought out the power you gained from our bond before, it's only fitting that I do the same, Yuto." Yuya grinned. "However, I'll take things a step further with this! I activate the Spell Card Rank-Up-Magic Arc Force, using Rebellion Dragon as material to Xyz Summon an Xyz Monster one Rank higher than it!"

As Rebellion Dragon turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuya chanted for the second time in a row.

"Dragon with the dual-colored eyes! May your black heart of wrath be consecrated by the sacred light and be reborn into that of a hero's! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Appear now, Rank 8! Divine dragon bringing salvation to all, Supreme King Serenity Dragon – Odd-Eyes Absolution Dragon (ATK: 4000/DEF: 2000/R: 8/SC: 10/OU: 3)!"

The Monster resembling Odd-Eyes Rebellion Dragon, only clad in gold armor with turquoise energy lines running through it, which had eight wings that resembled a cross between dragon and angel ones protruding from its back, appeared on Yuya's field.

"I detach an Overlay Unit from Absolution Dragon to activate its effect." Yuya declared. "Thanks to it, I can return all cards on my opponent's field back to their Deck and have this card gain 500 attack for each returned card, while I gain 500 Life Points for every returned card. Do it, Absolution Dragon! Rapture Howling!"

Following Yuya's words, Absolution Dragon let out a sonorous roar as it spread its eight wings, releasing a golden aura that enveloped both players' fields. Immediately afterwards, Yuto's Monster, his two Pendulum cards and his face-down card turned into particles of light and vanished, while the aura surrounding Absolution Dragon was strengthened.

(Absolution Dragon ATK: 4000→6000)

Yuya – LP: 1750→3750

"Nice!" Tatsuya cheered. "Now Big Bro Yuya has a clear shot at Yuto's Life Points!"

"Go, Big Bro Yuya!" Futoshi shouted. "Give him the greatest case of the shivers he's ever felt~!"

"Battle!" Yuya exclaimed. "Odd-Eyes Absolution Dragon will attack you directly, Yuto! Burst Shine of Deliverance – Advent Force!"

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

The golden-colored blast that erupted from Absolution Dragon's maw smashed on a semi-transparent barrier than enveloped Yuto, preventing it from reaching him.

"I probably should have expected that…" Yuya muttered. "However, the Battle Phase isn't over yet! King Bear will attack you directly, Yuto! And thanks to its effect, it gains 100 attack for every "Entermate" card on my field during the Battle Phase (King Bear ATK: 2200→2400)!"

As King Bear was about to attack him, Yuto noticed an Action Card placed on top of a passing cleaning robot. Making a sharp turn to the right, Yuto grabbed the Action Card, only for his expression to fall a bit.

"That doesn't help much, but it's better than nothing, I guess…" Yuto remarked. "I activate the Action Spell Malfunction, which negates your Monster's effects, meaning its attack returns to its normal value (King Bear ATK: 2400→2200)."

Following Yuto's words, King Bear slashed him with its claws, briefly sending his D-Wheel spiraling out of control as Yuto struggled to retain control.

Yuto – LP: 4000→1800

"About time I inflicted some damage on you." Yuya said. "I end my turn with that."

[The situation has shifted once again!] Melissa exclaimed. [Yuya has recovered most of his life points and has a powerful Monster with 6000 attack out, while Yuto's field is empty! Can Yuto counterattack under these circumstances!?]

"Compared to what we had to deal with during Academia's occupation, this is child's play." Yuto remarked. "It's my turn! I activate the Spell Card Phantom Knights Spirit Anchor. Through its effect, if I control no Monsters while my opponent does, I can Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Phantom Knights" Monster from my Graveyard along with a "Phantom Knights" Trap Card that can be treated as a Monster. Revive, Dusk Mantle and Dread Escutcheon in defense mode!"

Two portals appeared on Yuto's field, with his two Monsters emerging from them.

"Next, I activate the Spell Card Xyz Point Rift, whose effect allows me to Special Summon an Xyz Monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated and draw cards from my Deck equal to the number of Xyz Materials needed to Xyz Summon it." Yuto continued. "However, since I have no other cards in my hand, I can draw an additional card from my Deck. I choose to bring back Break Sword, meaning I can draw a total of three cards from my Deck."

A rift in space appeared above Yuto, with Break Sword emerging from it.

"These are some good cards." Yuto remarked with a smile as he accelerated, approaching Yuya. "Since this is our long-awaited match, I'll pull out all the stops and show you my full power."

"Your full power…?" Yuya frowned. "Yuto, you can't have…"

"I activate the Ritual Spell Card Phantom Ritual." Yuto said as a structure resembling a tomb appeared on his field. "Through its effect, I can offer "Phantom Knights" Monsters from my hand and/or field as tributes in order to Ritual Summon. Moreover, I can offer Xyz Monsters as well by treating their Ranks as Levels. As such, I will offer Break Sword, Dusk Mantle and Dread Escutcheon as tributes to Ritual Summon!"

As his three Monsters turned into particles that were absorbed into the coffin-shaped altar, with a torrent of darkness erupting from it, Yuto chanted.

"Emerging from the vast corridors of darkness, the envoy of revolution will strike back against the horizon of despair! Ritual Summon! Manifest, Level 9! Phantom Knights Revolt Calibur (Dark/Warrior/Ritual/Effect/ATK: 3300/DEF: 2700/LV: 9)!"

A warrior clad in black and violet-colored armor with a dragon's skull attached to its right shoulder and eerie blue flames flowing from its back, which held a serrated blade in its right hand and had a shield attached to its left hand, emerged from the pillar of darkness and came to hover next to Yuto.

[How astonishing!] Nico exclaimed. [The Duel has just taken a shocking turn with Yuto unveiling his new Ritual Monster! Looks like even at the eleventh hour, our Duelists are still hiding a couple of aces up their sleeves!]

"Ritual Summon…" Yuya muttered. "I have to admit I didn't expect that. So, you weren't satisfied with Fusion alone."

"True Duelists always challenge their limits as you're well aware." Yuto said. "I'm just glad I was able to keep this hidden until this time. Now then, let's continue. Revolt Calibur's effect activates. When this card is Ritual Summoned successfully by using Xyz Monsters as its tributes, I can Special Summon one of them and use it as material to Xyz Summon a "Phantom Knights" Xyz Monster that's one Rank higher than it. I will Special Summon Break Sword and use it to reconstruct the Overlay Network!"

As Break Sword emerged from a rift in space next to Yuto and turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuto chanted once again.

"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: 1)!"

Frayed Whip appeared on Yuto's field next to Revolt Calibur.

"I activate Revolt Calibur's effect." Yuto declared. "Once per turn, I can destroy Monsters on my opponent's field equal to the number of Special Summoned "Phantom Knights" Monsters on my field, and then I can increase those Monsters' attack by 300 and deal 400 points of damage to my opponent for every destroyed Monster. Furthermore, thanks to Frayed Whip's effect, all cards that are destroyed by "Phantom Knights" Monsters I control are banished. I will destroy Absolution Dragon and King Bear. Do it, Revolt Calibur! Revolution Finishing Strike!"

Revolt Calibur slammed its blade on the ground, releasing streams of darkness that pierced through Yuya's Monsters and destroyed them before striking Yuya himself, causing his D-Wheel to wobble unsteadily. At the same time, Yuto's Monsters were surrounded by a dark aura.

Yuya – LP: 3750→2950

(Revolt Calibur ATK: 3300→3900, Frayed Whip ATK: 2400→3000)

"Battle!" Yuto exclaimed. "Frayed Whip, destroy Entermate Orcrustra! Fury Outburst!"

Yuto's Monster swung its bladed whip, repeatedly striking Orcrustra's body and destroying it.

"I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Frayed Whip's effect." Yuto stated. "Thanks to it, I can destroy a card on my opponent's field since it destroyed a Monster. I think I'll destroy Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon in your Pendulum Zone."

"This isn't good." Shuzo remarked. "Now Yuya can't use its effect to defend himself."

"Go, Revolt Calibur!" Yuto shouted. "Attack Yuya directly and finish this! Eclipse Horizon Slash!"

"I won't let you!"

Yuya said as he revved his D-Wheel to the limit, having spotted an Action Card several meters ahead of him. Just as Revolt Calibur was about to reach him, Yuya leaned to the side and grabbed the Action Card.

"I activate the Action Spell Evasion!" Yuya exclaimed. "Through its effect, your attack is negated!"

Revolt Calibur's blade sailed through the air, barely missing Yuya's head by a hairsbreadth.

"Well, aren't you lucky." Yuto remarked. "Let's see if your luck will hold until the end though. I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"It's my turn!" Yuya announced. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Performance Reboot, whose effect allows me to draw five cards from my Deck since my opponent controls Monsters while I don't and I have at least one "Entermate" Monster in my Graveyard. Then, I place the Scale 1 Entermate Monkeyboard (ATK: 1000/DEF: 2400/LV: 6/SC: 1) in my empty Pendulum Zone!"

The right pillar of light appeared once again on Yuya's field, with Monkeyboard rising to its top.

"I activate Monkeyboard's Pendulum Effect, using it to add Entermate Odd-Eyes Substypus (Dark/Beast/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 300/DEF: 1350/LV: 4/SC: 7) to my hand." Yuya continued. "Then, I activate the effect of Entermate Odd-Eyes Substypus, banishing Knight of Odd-Eyes Dragon from my hand in order to Special Summon it in defense mode!"

A Monster resembling a platypus with dual-colored eyes dressed in a flashy outfit and wearing a fedora appeared on Yuya's field.

"Since it was Special Summoned by banishing an "Odd-Eyes" Pendulum Monster, Substypus's effect activates." Yuya declared. "Thanks to it, I can destroy a Monster on my opponent's field. Of course, I will destroy Revolt Calibur!"

Following Yuya's words, a multi-colored beam of energy erupted from Substypus's mouth, piecing through Revolt Calibur and destroying it.

"Now then, time for yet another of my special moves." Yuya grinned. "I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Odd-Eyes Ritual Gate. Through its effect, I can Special Summon Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon from my Extra Deck and a Ritual Monster from either player's Graveyard with their effects negated. I choose Revolt Calibur from your Graveyard, Yuto!"

Two beams of energy erupted from the ground, solidifying into the forms of Odd-Eyes and Revolt Calibur upon landing on Yuya's field.

"Looks like the Monster born from our combined potential is coming next." Yukio remarked with a smile. "That Yuya, he's perfectly mastered the use of the Heavenly Dragons' fused forms."

"Through the effect of Odd-Eyes Ritual Gate, I will Ritual Summon a Ritual Monster from my Deck using only the Monsters summoned through its effect as tributes and equip Ritual Gate to it as an Equip Card!"

As Odd-Eyes and Revolt Calibur turned into particles that were absorbed by the ring that had appeared above them, with a pillar of azure flames erupting from it, Yuya chanted.

"Dragon with dual-colored eyes! Take the power of fate's ruler within your body and embody supremacy itself! Ritual Summon! Appear, Level 10! The shining dragon with overpowering eyes, Supreme King Cerulean Dragon – Odd-Eyes Karma Dragon (ATK: 3300/DEF: 2600/LV: 10/SC: 12)!"

The imposing winged dragon with dual-colored eyes clad in deep blue armor with shades of silver throughout it, which had several red and green gems embedded throughout its armor, appeared on Yuya's field.

"Since you only have Xyz Monsters, Karma Dragon's first effect won't be of much use here." Yuya remarked. "As such, let's go with this instead. Using my current Pendulum Scale, I will Pendulum Summon! Come from my hand, Entermate Dag Daggerman (ATK: 2000/DEF: 600/LV: 5/SC: 2) and Entermate Silver Claw (ATK: 1800/DEF: 700/LV: 4/SC: 5)!"

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

"I activate Odd-Eyes Karma Dragon's effect." Yuya continued. "Once per turn, I can target any number of Pendulum Monsters on my field and an equal number of cards on my opponent's field in order to destroy them. I will destroy Silver Claw and Dag Daggerman in order to destroy Frayed Whip and your face-down card, Yuto! Void Karma!"

Several bolts of azure-colored energy were shot out of the gems embedded on Karma Dragon's armor, destroying the designated cards.

"Alright!" Sora cheered. "Now Yuto is wide open once again! Finish it, Yuya!"

"Battle!" Yuya exclaimed. "Odd-Eyes Karma Dragon, attack Yuto directly!"

"Unfortunately, this won't go as you planned!" Yuto shouted. "The effect of Revolt Calibur in my Graveyard activates! Once per Duel during my opponent's Battle Phase, I can equip this card to an opponent's Monster and take control of it! I will take control of your Odd-Eyes Karma Dragon!"

Following Yuto's words, the specter of Revolt Calibur appeared in front of Karma Dragon, entering its body. The dragon let out a confused howl as its eyes turned black, taking off and landing on Yuto's field.

[Looks like Sakaki Yuya's strategy has backfired big time!] Nico announced. [Instead of settling the Duel, he's left himself almost wide open to a potentially devastating counterattack!]

"As expected of Yuto, you won't make this easy." Yuya let out a cramped smile. "I end my turn."

"Then, it's my turn!" Yuto announced as he accelerated. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Life-Shaving Treasure Cards, whose effect allows me to draw cards from my Deck until I have five in my hand. Next, I activate the effect of the Trap Card Phantom Knights Murky Baselard in my Graveyard, which allows me to Special Summon it as a Normal Monster if I control no "Phantom Knights" Monsters. Come, Murky Baselard (Dark/Warrior/ATK: 700/DEF: 1200/LV: 4)!"

A fissure opened on Yuto's field, with a Monster resembling a warrior wearing light armor and holding a sinister-looking baselard emerging from it.

"Since a "Phantom Knights" Monster was Special Summoned to my field, I can Special Summon this Monster from my hand." Yuto stated. "Appear, Phantom Knights Stained Greaves (ATK: 1200/DEF: 600/LV: 3)!"

Stained Greaves materialized on Yuto's field next to his other two Monsters.

"Stained Greaves' effect activates." Yuto continued. "Since it was Special Summoned by its own effect, its Level increases by 1 (Stained Greaves LV: 3→4). Then, I Overlay the Level 4 Stained Greaves and Murky Baselard!"

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 appeared on the field, letting out a piercing howl.

"Battle!" Yuto exclaimed. "Dark Rebellion, destroy Odd-Eyes Substypus! Lightning Disobey of Revolt!"

"I activate the effect of Odd-Eyes Substypus!" Yuya shouted. "During the Battle Phase, I can banish this card to Special Summon a Pendulum Monster from my Pendulum Zone, and then I can place a Pendulum Monster from the field to that Pendulum Zone! I will Special Summon Card Gardna in defense mode and place Karma Dragon in my Pendulum Zone!"

Following Yuya's words, Card Gardna exited the pillar of light and landed on Yuya's field. Immediately afterwards, Karma Dragon took its place, rising to the top of the left pillar.

"So that's why Yuya didn't tribute Substypus before for Karma Dragon's effect." Allen remarked. "Not bad. Did he predict something like this would happen?"

"It wouldn't be that surprising." Sayaka said. "Both Yuya and Yuto should be familiar with each other's thought process to a degree."

"Substypus's effect doesn't end here." Yuya continued. "Since it was banished, I can place an "Odd-Eyes" Pendulum Monster from my banish zone face-up in my Extra Deck. I choose Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon."

"Good one, Yuya." Yuto praised his opponent. "There's no point in attacking since Karma Dragon's Pendulum Effect prevents your Monsters from being destroyed once per turn. I place two cards face-down and end my turn."

"It's my turn!" Yuya announced. "Draw! I activate Entermate Monkeyboard's effect, adding Entermate Odd-Eyes Minotaur from my Deck to my hand. Then, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Revive from the Extra Deck, Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon, Entermate Silver Claw! And from my hand, come, Odd-Eyes Minotaur (ATK: 1200/DEF: 1600/LV: 4/SC: 6) and Transient-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500/LV: 8/SC: 0)!"

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

"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)!"

Blaze-Eyes emerged on Yuya's field from within a pillar of flames.

"I activate the Trap Card Threatening Roar!" Yuto shouted. "Through its effect, your Monsters cannot declare an attack for this turn!"

"Sorry, but that won't work!" Yuya smirked. "I activate Transient-Eyes' Pendulum Effect! Through it, your Trap Card's activation and its effect are negated!"

"Now Yuto can't stop Yuya's attack." Dennis remarked, but then frowned. "Still, Yuto should be aware of that dragon's effect. And that second face-down…I don't like this…"

"Battle!" Yuya exclaimed. "Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon, destroy Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon! Spiral Venom Crusher!"

"You fell for it." Yuto let out a sly smirk. "The real trap was this! I activate the Trap Card Treason Discharge! Through its effect, when an "Xyz Dragon" Monster on my field is attacked, I can negate that attack, halve the attack of all Monsters my opponent controls and negate their effects!"

"What did you say!?" Yuya cried out in shock. "Damn, to think you had such a Trap ready…"

Following Yuya's words, streams of black lightning erupted from Yuto's card, binding Yuya's Monsters.

(Venom Dragon ATK: 3300→1650, Transient-Eyes ATK: 3000→1500, Blaze-Eyes ATK: 2500→1250, Card Gardna ATK: 1000→500)

[Looks like yet another attempt to end the Duel has ended in failure!] Melissa exclaimed. [Not only that, but Yuya is once again vulnerable to counterattack!]

"This isn't good…" Yuya muttered. "I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"It's my turn!" Yuto announced. "Draw! Oh, looks like I got a good card. I activate the Spell Card Hyper-Rank-Up-Magic Judgment Force, using Dark Rebellion as Xyz Material through its effect in order to Special Summon its evolved form!"

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

"Undying soul of righteous rebellion! Take the Supreme King's wrath within me and soar towards the dawn of a new future! Rank-Up Hyper Xyz Evolution! Descend now, Rank 12! The Supreme King Justice Dragon – Dark Nemesis Xyz Dragon (ATK: 3700/DEF: 3300/R: 12/OU: 3)!"

The final form of Dark Rebellion materialized on Yuto's field, letting out a furious roar.

[The final and strongest form of Dark Rebellion has appeared on the field!] Nico exclaimed. [And with his Monsters weakened, Sakaki Yuya could be in a real pinch here!]

"I activate the effect of Treason Discharge in my Graveyard." Yuto continued. "By banishing it, I can target an "Xyz Dragon" Monster on my field and have it attack all Monsters my opponent controls once each. However, other Monsters on my field cannot attack. Of course, I will target Dark Nemesis Xyz Dragon!"

"This is bad!" Ayu cried out. "If Big Bro Yuya takes all these attacks, his Life Points will be wiped out!"

"Battle!" Yuto exclaimed. "Dark Nemesis Xyz Dragon, destroy Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon first! Judgement Disobey of Nemesis!"

"I activate the Trap Card Pendulum Arena!" Yuya shouted. "Through its effect, all damage I receive from battles involving Pendulum Monsters I control is reduced to 400 for this Battle Phase!"

Following Yuya's words, Dark Nemesis's tusks were surrounded by black lightning as it charged forward, tearing through Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon's body and destroying it, with Yuya wincing due to the ensuing shockwave.

Yuya – LP: 2950→2550

"Not bad." Yuto remarked. "It seems I won't be able to finish you off during this turn. However, I will destroy all your Monsters at least! Go, Dark Nemesis! Destroy Yuya's two dragons and his defense position Card Gardna! Storm of Revolution – Ruling Force!"

Dark Nemesis opened its maw wide, unleashing a massive black-colored energy wave that vaporized all Monsters on Yuya's field, with Yuya letting out a cry of pain as he struggled to keep his D-Wheel steady.

Yuya – LP: 2550→2150→1750

"At the Battle Phase's end…Pendulum Arena's effect activates…" Yuya wheezed out. "Thanks to it…I can draw a card from my Deck for every destroyed Monster plus one if I have no Monsters on my field. Four Monsters were destroyed, meaning I can draw five cards."

"For your sake, I hope you got some good cards, Yuya." Yuto said. "I place two cards face-down and end my turn."

"It's my turn!" Yuya announced. "Draw! First, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Revive from the Extra Deck, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon, Transient-Eyes Pendulum Dragon and Entermate Dag Daggerman!"

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

"The Monster in my hand can be Special Summoned by sending Transient-Eyes to the Graveyard and shuffling two cards from my Pendulum Zone whose Scale Value sum is 12 or more back to my Deck." Yuya declared. "I will shuffle Monkeyboard and Karma Dragon back to my Deck in order to bring out the final form of my Odd-Eyes!"

As his three Monsters turned into orbs of light that 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 portal, solidifying into the form of Nexus-Eyes upon landing on Yuya's field. Upon catching sight of it, Dark Nemesis started howling, with Nexus-Eye responding in kind.

"Looks like both of them are raring to go." Yuya smiled. "However, my preparations aren't finished yet. I activate Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon's effect! Once per turn, I can target a Monster on my opponent's field, negate its effects and have this card gains its effects until the End Phase. Of course, I will target Dark Nemesis!"

"I won't let you!" Yuto shouted. "I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Dark Nemesis's effect! Once during either player's turn, if this card would be affected by a card effect, I can negate that effect, destroy that card and attach a Dark-attribute Monster from my Graveyard or banish zone as Xyz Material to this card. I choose to attach Chipped Lance from my banish zone to Dark Nemesis. Sentence Reversal!"

One of the Overlay Units orbiting Dark Nemesis shot forward, piercing through Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon's body and destroying it, with another one taking its place immediately afterwards.

"I knew you would do that." Yuya grinned. "Or rather, you didn't have any other choice but to do that. This leaves you open to my next move. I activate the Ritual Spell Card Odd-Eyes Advent, offering Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon and Dag Daggerman as tributes to Ritual Summon!"

As an altar with torches which let out blue and red flames appeared on his field, with his two Monsters turning into particles and being absorbed by it, Yuya chanted.

"Gentle light pouring down from the heavens! Cleanse the dual-colored eyes of the dragon and reveal the road leading to the promised world! Ritual Summon! Manifest now, Level 12! Radiant dragon shining in the sea of the darkness, Celestial-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 3500/DEF: 3500/LV: 12/SC: 10)!"

The dragon with dual-colored eyes clad in ornate azure armor with gold armor plates on it and several blue gems embedded on it, which had six wings resembling a cross between angel and dragon ones growing from its back and three concentric halos hovering above its head, appeared on Yuya's field.

[Another powerful Monster has come out!] Melissa exclaimed. [Looks like Yuya is going all out and intends to settle this during this turn!]

"Celestial-Eyes' effect activates." Yuya declared. "When this card is Ritual Summoned successfully, I can banish all Monsters my opponent controls!"

"I activate the Continuous Trap Card Xyz Dragon's Wrath, equipping it to Dark Nemesis!" Yuto stated. "Thanks to its effect, the equipped Monster is unaffected by my opponent's card effects as long as it's equipped with it!"

"In that case, I activate Nexus-Eyes' effect which allows me to 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." Yuya said. "Nexus Grasp!"

Nexus-Eyes spread its wings as streams of energy were released from the bodies of Celestial-Eyes and Dark Nemesis.

(Nexus-Eyes ATK: 3500→10700)

"Battle!" Yuya exclaimed. "Nexus-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, attack Dark Nemesis Xyz Dragon! And thanks to my dragon's effect, effects that prevent destruction by battle aren't applied, meaning Dark Nemesis's effect is useless here! Quintessence Spiral Breath!"

"The effect of the equipped Xyz Dragon's Wrath activates, doubling my Monster's attack until the End Phase since it's battling a Monster with a higher attack than it (Dark Nemesis ATK: 3700→7400)!" Yuto shouted. "In addition, I activate the Trap Card Phantom Eden! Thanks to its effect, I can halve all damage I receive from battles involving Dark-attribute Monsters for this turn!"

Following Yuto's words, Nexus-Eyes opened its maw wide, discharging a massive blast that vaporized Dark Nemesis, with Yuto almost being thrown off the road by the force of the shockwave.

Yuto – LP: 1800→150

"Next, I activate Celestial-Eyes' effect." Yuya continued. "By preventing this card from battling during this Battle Phase, I can increase the attack of a Monster on my field by 700 and have it attack once again! Of course, I choose Nexus-Eyes (Nexus-Eyes ATK: 10700→11400)! Go, Nexus-Eyes! Attack Yuto directly!"

"Not so fast!" Yuto said. "I activate the effect of Chipped Lance in my Graveyard! By banishing it, I can reduce the damage to 0 and draw a card from my Deck!"

The oversized blast that erupted from Nexus-Eyes' maw was blocked by a semi-transparent barrier that enveloped Yuto.

[It looks like Yuto has survived, but his Life Points have been diminished by a large amount.] Melissa remarked. [Not to mention, his prized ace Monster has also been destroyed. The situation looks bleak all around.]

"I end my turn, with Nexus-Eyes' attack returning to normal (Nexus-Eyes ATK: 10700→3500)." Yuya said. "Now then, can you still keep on fighting, Yuto?"

"You bet." Yuto smirked. "It's my turn! Draw! During the Standby Phase, the effect of Xyz Dragon's Wrath activates, allowing me to Special Summon the Monster equipped with this card from my Graveyard. Revive, Dark Nemesis!"

A rift in space appeared above Yuto, with Dark Nemesis emerging from it.

"Thanks to the effect of Xyz Dragon's Wrath, the summoned Monster gains 500 attack for every Special Summoned Monster on my opponent's field (Dark Nemesis ATK: 3700→4700)." Yuto announced. "Then, I activate the Spell Card Rank-Up-Magic Specter Force, using Dark Rebellion in my Graveyard as Xyz Material through its effect in order to Xyz Summon an Xyz Monster that's one Rank higher than it!"

As Dark Rebellion emerged from a fissure on the ground and transformed into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuto chanted.

"From the depths of purgatory, dedicate your song of rebellion to the restless souls! Appear and echo forevermore! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Appear, Rank 5! Dark Requiem Xyz Dragon (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500/R: 5/OU: 1)!"

The evolved form of Dark Rebellion appeared from within a lightning storm, letting out a piercing howl.

"Thanks to its effect, Specter Force is attached to Dark Requiem as an Overlay Unit (Dark Requiem OU: 1→2)." Yuto continued. "Then, I activate Dark Requiem's effect, detaching an Overlay Unit from it in order to reduce Celestial-Eyes' attack to 0 and have Dark Requiem gain attack equal to its attack until the End Phase. Requiem Salvation!"

Several tendrils of darkness erupted from the gems on Dark Requiem's wings, binding Celestial-Eyes.

(Dark Requiem ATK: 3000→6500, Celestial-Eyes ATK: 3500→0)

"Battle!" Yuto roared. "Dark Requiem, destroy Celestial-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! Disaster Disobey of Requiem!"

"I activate the effect of Entermate Barrier Balloon Tapir (ATK: 1000/DEF: 2000/LV: 6) in my hand!" Yuya exclaimed. "By sending this card to the Graveyard, I can reduce the damage from this battle to 0!"

Following Yuya's words, Dark Requiem's tusks were surrounded by lightning as it tore through Celestial-Eyes' torso, destroying the dragon.

"Celestial-Eyes' effect activates." Yuya stated. "When it's destroyed, I can place it in my Pendulum Zone."

"Not bad, but I still have one more attack." Yuto pointed out. "Go, Dark Nemesis! Attack Nexus-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! At this moment, I activate the effect of Phantom Eden in my Graveyard! By banishing it when a Dark-attribute Monster on my field battles, I can double the battle damage from that battle and prevent the activation of any effects that would prevent its destruction! This is the end!"

"No, it's not over yet!" Yuya declared. "Celestial-Eyes' Pendulum Effect activates! Once during either player's turn, I can halve an instance of battle or effect damage!"

Dark Nemesis charged following Yuya's words, its entire body enveloped by black lightning as it tore through Nexus-Eyes' body, destroying it and generating a massive shockwave that almost sent Yuya's D-Wheel flying.

Yuya – LP: 1750→550

"Nexus-Eyes' effect activates." Yuya said. "When this card is destroyed, I can add two Pendulum Monsters from my Deck to my hand and place this card in my Pendulum Zone. I will add Entermate Clear Wing Wizard and Entermate Laugh Maker to my hand."

"So close, and yet so far." Yuto let out a small laugh. "Looks like I wasn't able to reach it… I end my turn, with Dark Requiem's attack returning to normal (Dark Requiem ATK: 6500→3000)."

"Then, let's settle things, Yuto!" Yuya declared. "It's my turn! Draw! I activate the Pendulum Effect of Nexus-Eyes, which allows me to destroy a Pendulum Monster in my other Pendulum Zone in order to add a Pendulum Monster from my Deck, Graveyard, banish zone or face-up in my Extra Deck to my hand! I will add Entermate Swing Cobra (ATK: 300/DEF: 1800/LV: 4/SC: 2) from my Deck to my hand, and then I will place it on my now empty Pendulum Zone!"

The right column of light, which had vanished, appeared once again on Yuya's field, with Swing Cobra rising to its top.

"Next, I will send Entermate Block Spider from my hand to the Graveyard in order to target Dark Requiem and negate its effects until the End Phase." Yuya said as the specter of Block Spider appeared above Dark Requiem, casting a net-shaped web that attached itself to the dragon's body. "Then, using my current Pendulum Scale, I will Pendulum Summon! Revive from the Extra Deck, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon and Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon! And from my hand, come, Entermate Laugh Maker (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 8/SC: 5)!"

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

"Moving on, I summon the Tuner Monster Entermate Clear Wing Wizard (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 1/SC: 8)!"

Clear Wing Wizard appeared on Yuya's field next to his other Monsters.

"I activate Clear Wing Wizard's effect." Yuya continued. "Once per turn, I can target a Monster on the field and change its name into a Monster name of my choice until the End Phase. I will target Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon and change its name to Clear Wing Synchro Dragon. Then, I tune the Level 7 Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon which is treated as Clear Wing Synchro Dragon with the Level 1 Clear Wing Wizard!"

As Odd-Eyes tuned into seven stars and Clear Wing Wizard turned into a single ring surrounding them, Yuya chanted.

"Dragon with dual-colored eyes! Gain the shining wings of light and soar to the summit of supremacy! Synchro Summon! Appear, Level 8! The shining dragon with piercing eyes, Supreme King White Dragon – Odd-Eyes Wing Dragon (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500/LV: 8/SC: 10)!"

The dragon which resembled a mix between Odd-Eyes and Clear Wing appeared on Yuya's field, the glow emitting from its body illuminating the area.

"A Synchro Dragon…" Yuto muttered. "I always seem to have bad luck when such Monsters are involved."

"I activate Odd-Eyes Wing Dragon's effect." Yuya declared. "Once per turn, I can target a Monster my opponent controls, destroy as many Monsters my opponent controls as possible and increase this card's attack by an amount equal to the targeted Monster's attack until the End Phase. I will target your 4700 attack Dark Nemesis, Yuto! Do it, Odd-Eyes Wing Dragon! Theoretic Mirror!"

Following Yuya's words, waves of light erupted from the mirrors attached to Wing Dragon's body and struck Yuto's Monsters, destroying them.

(Odd-Eyes Wing Dragon ATK: 3000→7700)

"Dark Nemesis's effect activates." Yuto stated. "When this card is destroyed, I can Special Summon a Dark-attribute Xyz Monster from my Graveyard or banish zone, and then I can attach Dark Nemesis to it as an Xyz Material. Revive from the banish zone, Phantom Knights Chipped Lance in defense mode!"

A portal appeared on Yuto's field, with Chipped Lance emerging from it.

"Battle!" Yuya exclaimed. "Odd-Eyes Venom Dragon, destroy Chipped Lance! Spiral Venom Crusher!"

A stream of violet-colored energy erupted from Venom Dragon's maw, enveloping Chipped Lance and vaporizing it.

"Next is Entermate Laugh Maker!" Yuya said. "Attack Yuto directly! Laughing Spark!"

"I activate the effect of Chipped Lance in my Graveyard!" Yuto stated. "Through it, damage is reduced to 0 and I can draw a card from my Deck!"

"But now, you have no more tricks left." Yuya pointed out. "Which means it's time for the finale! Go, Odd-Eyes Wing Dragon! Attack Yuto directly!"

Just as Odd-Eyes Wing Dragon prepared to attack, both Duelists noticed that there was a gap on the highway they were riding on, with two Action Cards suspended over the gap. Revving up their engines to the limit, both Yuya and Yuto flew over the gap, each grabbing an Action Card at almost the same time before landing.

"I activate the Action Spell Battle Lock!" Yuto shouted. "Through its effect, your Monster cannot declare an attack!"

"Unfortunately, it seems that fortune has smiled on me once again." Yuya grinned. "My Action Spell is No Action, which negates the effect of your Action Card! Therefore, my attack resumes! Do it, Odd-Eyes Wing Dragon! Spiral Tempest Break!"

Odd-Eyes started spinning while surrounded by raging gusts of wind and charged, striking Yuto's D-Wheel and forcing it to come to a stop as Yuya passed him.

Yuto – LP: 150→0

Yuya: WIN

[It's over!] Melissa exclaimed. [The last Riding Duel in the Maiami Championship ends with Yuya's victory! As expected of the young man who beat our Jack! But Yuto also fought very well, so let's give a big round of applause to these warriors, everyone!]

[With this, the semifinal round has come to its conclusion.] Nico announced as everyone cheered. [That means the participants who will face each other in the finals and vie for the title are Sakaki Yuya and Tachibana Yukio. I don't know about you, everyone, but I'm getting goosebumps just from imagining what kind of Duel these two will show us.]

[You said it.] Melissa remarked. [However, you'll have to be patient for a little while longer, everyone. There will be a forty-minute break so that can both Duelists can take a breather and make whatever final adjustments they wish to their Deck. Once the allotted time has passed, the match will take place here in Maiami Stadium.]

"Shame that won't be me." Yuto said as Yuya approached him. "But I have no regrets. This was a great Duel and a memorable first Riding Duel. I only hope future ones will end with a more favorable result."

"I have no doubt they will." Yuya said with a smile, but then frowned. "So, the time is finally here… Deep down, I knew I would settle things with Yukio today, but I didn't expect we would meet in the final round."

"But it's fitting, don't you think?" Yuto said. "The two Duelists who fought against Zarc will now decide who is better between them. There's no more perfect stage for this fight."

"That's true, I guess." Yuya said. "But this is going to be one hell of a Duel. Yukio will be a tough opponent."

"Yes, but you're no slouch yourself." Yuto said as he patted Yuya's back. "Don't stress over it too much. Just get out there, do your best and have fun. That way, you'll be able to perform to the best of your abilities. I'm not a betting man, but if I was, I'd be betting on you."

"Thanks, Yuto." Yuya smiled. "I appreciate that. Will you come along?"

"No, I'll be going to Ruri and Shun's side." Yuto said. "Once again, good luck. Oh, and try not to get distracted by the issue with Yuzu. Tripping at the finish line because of that would be seriously lame."

"You just had to remind me, didn't you…?"

Yuya spoke with a crestfallen expression as Yuto took his leave while chuckling. After a couple of seconds, Yuya slapped his cheeks as he turned his sights to the direction of the stadium.

"Alright then. One more battle. Let's settle things, Yukio."

Yuya said as he made a fist before starting to walk towards the stadium and the battle awaiting him.

---

Card Corner

Entermate Orcrustra

ATK: 0, DEF: 2100, LV: 5, SC: 2

Water/Aqua/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: All Pendulum Summoned Monsters on your field gain 300 ATK, while all Pendulum Summoned Monsters on your opponent's field lose 300 ATK.

Monster Effect: You can target a Special Summoned Monster from the Extra Deck; Special Summon this card, increase that Monster's ATK by 500 and draw a card from your Deck. The targeted Monster cannot declare an attack on this turn's Battle Phase.

Phantom Knights Revolt Calibur

ATK: 3300, DEF: 2700, LV: 9

Dark/Warrior/Ritual/Effect

Monster Effect: You can Ritual Summon this card with "Phantom Ritual". If this card is Ritual Summoned successfully by using "Phantom Knights" Xyz Monsters as tributes, you can target one of them in the Graveyard; Special Summon it and use it as material to Xyz Summon a "Phantom Knights" Xyz Monster that's one Rank higher than it. Once per turn, you can destroy Monsters on my opponent's field equal to the number of Special Summoned "Phantom Knights" Monsters on your field, and then increase those Monsters' ATK by 300 and deal 400 points of damage to your opponent for every destroyed Monster. Once per Duel, while this card is in your Graveyard during your opponent's Battle Phase, you can equip this card to one of their Monsters and take control of it.

Entermate Odd-Eyes Substypus

ATK: 300, DEF: 1350, LV: 4, SC: 7

Dark/Beast/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: When an "Odd-Eyes" Monster on your field is attacked or targeted by a card effect, you can switch the target to another Monster on your field.

Monster Effect: You can banish a Pendulum Monster from your hand to Special Summon this card, and if it was an "Odd-Eyes" Monster, you can destroy a Monster on your opponent's field. During the Battle Phase, you can banish this card; Special Summon a Pendulum Monster from your Pendulum Zone, place a Pendulum Monster from the field to that Pendulum Zone and then you can place an Odd-Eyes" Pendulum Monster from your banish zone face-up in your Extra Deck.

Pendulum Omniforce

Quick-Play Spell Card

Increase the ATK of all Monsters on your field by an amount equal to the Scale Value sum of the Monsters in your Pendulum Zone x 300 until the End Phase. Pendulum Summoned Monsters affected by this effect cannot declare an attack during this turn. If all Monsters affected by this card's effect are destroyed, you can draw a card from your Deck. When your opponent's Monster declares a direct attack, you can banish this card from your Graveyard; Special Summon a Pendulum Monster face-up from your Extra Deck with its effects negated and its ATK and DEF at 0.

Phantom Knights Spirit Anchor

Normal Spell Card

If you control no Monsters while your opponent does, you can Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Phantom Knights" Monster from your Graveyard along with a "Phantom Knights" Trap Card that can be treated as a Monster.

Xyz Point Rift

Normal Spell Card

If your opponent controls a Monster that was Special Summoned from the Extra Deck while you don't, you can activate this effect; Special Summon an Xyz Monster from your Graveyard with its effects negated and draw a card from your Deck equal to the number of Xyz Materials needed to Xyz Summon it. If you have no cards in your hand, you can draw an additional card from your Deck.

Phantom Ritual

Ritual Spell Card

(This card is always treated as a "Phantom Knights" card). This card can be used to Ritual Summon any "Phantom Knights" Ritual Monster. You must also tribute Monsters from your hand and/or field whose Levels are equal to or greater than that Ritual Monster's Level. You can also use Monsters in your Graveyard as tributes, but they are banished. Xyz Monsters can also be used as tributes, and if they do, treat them as having a Level equal to their Rank.

Phantom Knights Fury Blaze

Normal Trap Card

When your opponent's Monster declares an attack, you activate this effect; destroy the opponent's Monster with the lowest ATK on their field and deal 600 points of damage to them. When a "Phantom Knights" Monster on your field battles an opponent's Monster with a higher ATK that it, you can banish this card; increase your Monster's ATK by 600 until the End Phase and if it destroys an opponent's Monster by battle, you can banish another Monster from your opponent's field.

Phantom Knights Murky Baselard

Normal Trap Card

You can equip this card to a "Phantom Knghts" Monster you control. Once during wither player's turn, when the equipped Monster battles an opponent's Monster, you can destroy it before damage calculation. If you control no "Phantom Knights" Monsters, you can Special Summon this card in attack position as a Normal Monster (Dark/Warrior/ATK: 700/DEF: 1200/LV: 4), but banish it when it leaves the field.

Treason Discharge

Normal Trap Card

Activate this effect when an "Xyz Dragon" Monster on your field is targeted for an attack; negate that attack, halve the ATK of all Monsters your opponent controls and negate their effects. You can banish this card from your Graveyard to target an "Xyz Dragon" Monster on your field; it can attack all Monsters your opponent controls once each during this Battle Phase, but other Monsters you control cannot declare an attack.

Xyz Dragon's Wrath

Continuous Trap Card

Equip this card to an "Xyz Dragon" Monster you control. As long as this card is equipped to it, that Monster is unaffected by your opponent's card effects and if it battles a Monster with a higher ATK than it, you can double its ATK until the End Phase. If the equipped Monster is destroyed, you can Special Summon it during your Standby Phase and increase its ATK by 500 for every Special Summoned Monster on your opponent's field.

Phantom Eden

Normal Trap Card

(This card is always treated as a "Phantom Knights" card). All damage you receive from battles involving DARK Monsters is halved for the rest of this turn. When a DARK Monster on your field battles an opponent's Monster, you can banish this card from your Graveyard; double the damage from that battle and prevent the activation of any effects that would prevent that Monster's destruction.

This concludes Chapter 84, which featured the long-awaited match between Yuya and Yuto. Since Yuto never had the chance to participate in a Riding Duel during the show and in this story, I decided to have their Duel being conducted in that format. In the end, Yuya emerged victorious, so the final round will have him confronting Yukio (surprise, surprise). But as for the result of that match…well, you will find out in due time :)

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

See you all next time!