Episode 19: The Strongest Game Master
The room was covered with metal lining for the walls, floor and even ceiling. Machines and screens were scattered about as the mysterious room was held deep under the ground. Multiple sounds bounced around the walls from the beeping of the machines, to the dripping of the liquid in the IV bags. It was the center of the very area which held the most precious and important specimen. A glass case laid on the table, appearing like a coffin, yet the one inside was not dead. At least, not to the definition of deceased. The man within the pod had a bald head and bushy, white eyebrows, dressed only in briefs. Most of his skin was attached to wires with suction cups, pumping him with a special gel to keep his organs stable. He laid on a pillow with a headset around his dome, producing more cables. While at first glance it would appear he was no longer attached to this world, the heart-rate monitor said otherwise. The only people that were there wore lab coats and were attached to the computers while measuring the tabs of the one in status.
"Artificial heart… functioning. Artificial lungs… functioning. Artificial liver… functioning…" A female stated as she checked the lists of the organs. "How are the artificial kidneys?"
"They are up to date." A male doctor proclaimed. "He seems to be having no problems." Before they could continue with their observations, the doors to the lab opened. Instead of another scientist, the CEO of the program and company walked in. Everyone gasped as they all knew who it was. "M-Master Kaiba!" The guy squealed.
No one had expected him here today, but they allowed him to walk in and approach the cocoon. His blue eyes stared at the man that was resting inside. The light within his pupils were softer than usual, gazing at the one that seemed so peaceful in his slumber. "How is he?" He asked, not taking his gaze off of the one within the confinement of the glass.
"All of Diamond's artificial organs are functioning." The female doctor answered.
"Will he be able to go out tomorrow?" Seto questioned. This caught the doctor off guard, as they looked at one another. Was he going to release Diamond? It must be a serious matter if he was going to use him.
"Y-yes…" She finally answered. "We just finished the modifications. He'll be able to survive up to three hours outside of the cocoon.
Seto nodded, but his fixture was on the one within the pod. 'Master Diamond…' He called the man by his name in his mind. Closing his eyes, he began to envision his earlier days when he was first taken in by the head of the Kaiba Corporation. The times where he remembered to laugh for the sake of happiness, before he fell victim to becoming a pawn for his guardian's antics. One of those memories involved him being on a swing, moving back and forth on a large tree, playing in the backyard while an old, yet semi-built, man was helping to push him.
"Higher Diamond, higher!" A young Seto begged, giggling as he was reaching closer to the sky. The one pushing him obliged, going as high as the swing and his strength could carry him.
He remembered not long after, he would play chess with the old man, as he played a black knight onto the board to counter Seto's white king. "Checkmate, young master." The old man had a sly smile on his face, as he claimed victory. The young child gritted his teeth, upset at the loss which caused him to become enraged. He grabbed hold of the chess board and tossed it into the air, making the pieces fly. Despite his outburst, the old man kept smiling. "You have a lot of anger for someone your size." He joked before standing up from his seat. "Loss is never easy to swallow, but a true gamer can gain just as much from losing as they do from winning. Use that bitterness to focus your motivation to win." A piece of advice he was given years ago that had stuck with him all this time as he carried it in his heart.
He remembered playing cards against the old man, not long after he took a break from chess. The old man had a seven diamond and a five diamond laying on the table, then tossed two of hearts to pick a card from the deck to be put in his hands. He looked over at the young master, who held his stack close to his face. "Three queens." The older of the pair declared, laying his cards to reveal what he had. For a moment, he believed he had won the game. A sly smile plastered itself onto the face of the child.
"Full house." Seto declared, laying down three tens and two threes. Upon seeing his victory, he jumped up and down in pure delight. "I did it! I finally beat Master Diamond in a game!"
He thought back to when he was on that swing, and how he wanted to test how high he could fly. "You must aim higher for every accomplishment. You will be the kind of person to rise into the sky to put behind your past. Higher and higher, never keep your expectations low." Diamond once told him many years ago.
Seto snapped out of those memories, yet couldn't help but relish in the past. It was times like this he was grateful to Diamond, not only for being his teacher but for being one of the few good things in his life upon arriving at the mansion. He would have lost himself had it not been for his stable relationships with those he could trust. Yet he still sacrificed so much just to be where he is now, even so he found it was worth the price to pay. Especially if he could change the way this company will be seen and create a new path where he has control.
He had only spent a few minutes in the lab before he found himself back on the top floor of his own building. He had much to do in regards to the production of his project underway, which meant he had been spending more nights at his office just to keep up with the orders so they could open the amusement park right at the very start of June, just as summer break would be around the corner. The burnet looked out his window to stare at the large view of the city, taking notice how high he was, to the point no one would be able to touch him. It was a habit he picked up as of late, staring off into space whenever something was on his mind. There were many things he had on his plate for him to handle, in terms of professional and personal matters. Had it not been for the opening of the doors into the room, he wouldn't have snapped out of his daydreams. Turning his head, he took notice of the young child walking over to him.
"Finally! I've been trying to reach you for so long. Can't believe it took me coming to you in person just to get your attention." The one in question appeared to be in elementary school, as his skin was a shade darker than Seto's with wide grayish-purple eyes. His hair was black and fluffy that reached to his mid back. His outfit consisted of a white and orange-striped open-collared shirt with a red sweatshirt over it. A light blue bandana appeared like a scarf on his neck, along with blueish-green jeans that matched his sneakers with some black lacking.
"Shouldn't you be in school?" Seto asked, nonchalantly.
"It won't kill me to miss a few days. Besides, with Kaiba Land Beta on the verge of completion, I figured you would want all the help you can get." The kid stated as a smug expression was plaster to his face.
Seto couldn't help but muse as a smile appeared on his lips. "I could use an extra set of hands. Especially with everything that has been happening." He admitted, scanning the room until he looked up at the gargoyles that were in every corner.
The younger of the two sighed. "I heard about what happened." He began. "How Kaiba Corporations proud Game Masters: Baron Sheldan, Fwua Ryuichi and even Aileen Rao were beaten by your rival: Yugi Mutou. Not only that, he even made you tie him in Duel Monsters. He's been giving us a run for our money ever since you went to his school. I mean, he shows up out of nowhere and not only has the audacity to beat you at your signature game, but to also stomp the others into the ground one by one." It was clear he was annoyed by the tone he was speaking.
The older of the two listened, and while Seto did harbor some hate towards Yugi for how he had such skills despite the non-proper experience, he couldn't help but admire how strong he was and used the situation to his advantage as motivation for winning. Seto had a strange relationship with this high schooler, a complex one that he never felt for anyone before. "He's definitely someone who, regardless of his humble upbringing, seems to understand the consequences of games. Even when it seemed he was on the ropes, he was able to come back and claim victory."
"So, is that why you want to finish up Kaiba Land Beta so quickly?" The child asked, his smirk widening as he sat on the couch while staring at the older sibling. "Are you planning on using it to get back at Yugi?"
"Only those driven by pettiness seek out vengeance. However, I will not be fully satisfied until we have an honorable duel." Seto declared as he turned to face the younger of the pair. "My mistake was taking him on in a challenge he set up, letting my desires cloud my thinking. As he has gotten stronger, so have I. But Kaiba Land is the least of my concerns. We still have a few other issues to address."
The child nodded. "Yeah, tomorrow we have that game challenge with Omega Town. They've been rivaling Kaiba Corp for a few years now. Not to mention the winner of tomorrow's challenge will get the contents of the loser's upcoming projects and stocks. Usually we would have one of our Game Masters handle that, but they are out of commission now that they failed us. On top of it all, Father is supposed to come home from his European Business trip tomorrow afternoon. And from what I hear, he isn't too happy with you, big brother…" The younger sighed, a bit worried at the last sentence.
Seto didn't waver at the news as he was already aware of it. "No need to worry about that, Mokuba. I will handle father on my own."
Mokuba leaned in, wanting to hear more. "So you do have something planned for him?"
The older Kaiba brother merely smiled over at the youngest one. "No need for details, just know he won't be bothering us anymore after tomorrow. For now, we should focus on the Omega Town game. I'll have my hands full here, so I'll leave that game of stakes to you. I trust you can handle it."
This made Mokuba raise a brow, as he was honored that his older brother was entrusting him with such an important task. Still, was it a wise move? As much as he respected Seto, he knew he wasn't as good at certain games like his sibling. However, he would not disappoint him. "So, you want me to go and challenge them for you?"
Seto went over to his brother, kneeling down and placing a hand on his shoulder while looking him in the eyes. "Not necessarily. I need you to be the eyes and ears. As for the challenger, I do have one warrior left."
The black-haired child gasped. "You don't mean…" Mokuba didn't finish his sentence, as the smirk on Seto's face said it all in his assumption. Mokuba had a menacing expression on his face, giggling like a rat. "I feel sorry for those Omega Town employees. They're gonna be out of the job!" Despite Mokuba's cockiness, Seto knew that his little brother was right.
That was why the next day, the CEO of Kaiba Corp came back to the lab, just a few hours before the big game challenge against their rivals. He wanted to be sure that his strongest Game Master was ready for the objective ahead. When he walked in, he saw the scientists checking over the final preparations. "Artificial heart is functioning… Artificial lungs are functioning… Artificial kidneys are functioning… Artificial liver is functioning…" The female scientist list as she checked her monitor. Once everything was looked over, she turned to her boss. "Everything is operating perfectly well."
"Alright, wake him up." Seto ordered.
The woman nodded. "Injecting the Force Drive Gel!" She pressed a few buttons on the machines, causing the large tubes driven into his skin to push liquid inside of his chest and body. Once the fluids had been pushed through, it was time. "Open the Cocoon!" She declared. Before the glass could slide off, the man inside had already opened his eyes. He laid still in the case as the top retreated back onto the table. Once it was off, he sat up to let his eyes move up. As a smile spread across his lips when the first thing he saw was the one that he raised all those years ago.
"Ah! Young Master! No, Master Seto. You have grown so much since I last saw you." Diamond stated.
"Glad to see you are still kicking, Diamond." Seto mused. "I apologize for not being able to see you for so long."
"Don't worry about that. Being the head of the company does that to you." Diamond assured. "But the fact you woke me up means I am needed for work?"
"Yes, you have an assignment to play against our company rivals in a game." Seto instructed, as the doctors came in with some clothes for the old man.
"Show me where!" Diamond was excited, ready to get to work for the one he raised. He would not let him down. After all, he was the strongest of the Game Masters for a reason.
"Woah, this one looks cute!" Anzu declared, holding up a blue puffy-sleeved dress shirt.
Miho looked through the line of clothing as they were shopping in the store on a Wednesday afternoon. The two of them were with Yugi and Cosmo, as Jounouchi and Honda were visiting Shizuka today after school. "I like this one myself." Miho declared, holding up a pink tank top with a half heart on the side. Cosmo was sitting with Yugi next to her as the taller girls were picking out clothing for the season. They watched as Miho and Anzu were getting their summer styles figured out. "But this one looks fancy!" Miho picked up a white blouse and held it to her chest.
"Remember Miho, we're on a budget so we have to be careful what we buy." Anzu reminded her as the brunette held up a blue shirt and a navy strapless top. She looked between them, humming as she tried to think which one she would want. "Hey Yugi, which one do you like more?" She asked the only boy of the group as she turned to face him while holding up the clothing.
Yugi pondered for a bit, though he had to be honest in the end. "Both would definitely suit you, Anzu. Your style is top-notch after all." He might have been biased towards Anzu, but to him it was the truth.
She laughed at that, though appreciated the compliment. "You aren't wrong."
"Both of you have cute styles." Cosmo agreed. "They could wear any kind of color and stay bold."
"Are you sure you don't want us to buy you anything?" Anzu asked as she looked at the green-haired girl.
Cosmo shook her head. "I'm fine, besides I have plenty of summer outfits back home. We ended up going dress shopping before school since Galaxina wanted to make sure we both had a decent sized wardrobe for the season."
"Hey, hey, did you ask Sparkle if you were able to keep that dress in that video you starred in?" Miho asked, referring to the outfit Cosmo was wearing in that music video she was in during the popularity contest a few days ago.
Upon that question, her face became a light shade of red. "A-Actually… that was a winter outfit I had." She admitted, scratching her cheek. "I've had it as a gift since two Christmases ago… still fits me well since I haven't changed much."
"Yeah, I don't think I ever grew a full inch since I graduated middle school." Yugi sighed depressingly. "I know girls are supposed to grow faster than guys, but I still feel like I'm lacking behind."
"Well, I don't think there is anything wrong with your height." Cosmo declared with a smile. "If anything, we both are in the short boat."
"Thanks, Cosmo." Yugi chuckled at her comment.
"Hey Cosmo, can you at least humor us and try this on?" Miho begged, holding up an outfit. The green-haired girl sighed, as she was obligated to walk over to the changing room with the clothing the two handed her. Yugi watched, smiling a bit as he couldn't help but wonder what kind of style Cosmo would wear. Come to think of it, he hardly ever saw her out of the school uniform and her work apron she wore around the flower shop. She seemed to mostly wear green or white, but outside of that he didn't know what brands of clothing she was interested in. Though she seemed more like the type to wear dresses and skirts, girly and frilly clothing if he was going off personality.
The curtains to the changing room swished away, to show off the flower girl in her outfit. She had on a green low-cut shirt that had a yellow trim at the breast and hip line. Her skirt was white and frilly, with a rose and vine designs near the very button. An open jacket with puffy sleeves and trimmed features on the edges covered her shoulders. Her socks were white and knee length with red-strap on high-heels. Her head held a hat that matched her socks, with a red ribbon around it. Miho and Anzu gasped at how cute Cosmo looked in that outfit. Even Yugi couldn't help but be a bit flustered by the way it fit the young girl. "It looks even better than I thought!" Miho squealed.
"Yeah, it seems to suit you." Anzu agreed.
Cosmo turned around to check herself in the mirror, looking over the outfit she had on. "It… is pretty cute." She finally admitted.
"And it's on clearance! So it's pretty cheap!" Miho declared. "We can even help pay for it."
"B-but it seems a bit much…" Cosmo tried to protest.
"Too late, we're getting it!" Anzu stated. Cosmo couldn't say no now, for once Anzu made up her mind, there was no pushing her. She changed back to her usual clothing and handed the outfit to the register. Though part of her wasn't too upset about it, and even thanked the girls in a shy manner.
Meanwhile, seven blocks from the store Mokuba was leaning into the window of a limo that had Diamond in the backseat. They finished up their game against Omega Town, with Kaiba Corporation being the victor. "A crushing victory from Master Diamond. Though I would expect no less from the very person that taught my brother at my age." The child proclaimed.
"That guy from Omega Town was not as skilled as he thought he was. He was far too young to understand anything." Diamond mused. "Though, it is a shame that Master Seto couldn't see the defeat himself."
"He wanted to, but he's busy preparing for father's return from Europe today." Mokuba explained.
Diamond's face was that of surprise. "The president is returning?" He hadn't seen the founder of the company since before he was encased in the cocoon, which was around five years ago if he recalled? Though he was curious what would happen once Seto met with the man who took him in. "Do you know when that will be?"
"He was originally scheduled to be landing this afternoon, but it will be a bit later since his flight got delayed." Mokuba explained. "Anyways, you did well Diamond. We'll bring you back so you can get some rest."
"Ah, right. I am getting a bit sleepy." The old man agreed, leaning back into the seat as he closed his eyes. The gel in his system was starting to wear out, meaning his artificial organs were losing their functioning.
Mokuba hurried over to where the chauffeur was, talking to him through the open window. "Alright, take him to our hospital and have the doctors hook him back up." The driver nodded, stepping on the gas pedal and began to head to his destination.
Yugi and Cosmo were walking back together, as the girl was holding her bags with the clothes she got. Miho and Anzu were planning on getting some food, but Yugi needed to head back so he could help his grandpa with the game shop. Cosmo decided to go with him, since she had to check on her own store. Plus, Cosmo didn't want them to get her any more clothes than she was already carrying. "They sure brought a lot of clothes today." Yugi noted.
"Thanks for coming with us, Yugi." Cosmo told him. "I know shopping probably isn't an ideal activity for you."
"Nah, it was fine. Besides, it was nice seeing the different outfits they wanted to try on." Yugi stated. "Oh, by the way, what are you doing tomorrow after school?"
"Huh?" Cosmo had to think before giving the answer. "I don't need to be at home to cover the shop since someone will be doing that. So, I'm free."
"In that case, how about we go to Domino Amusement Park?" Yugi asked with a smile. "Just the two of us?"
"Really? Are you sure?"
"Yeah! They finally allowed the park to be open up to the public again. And I hear they have some new summer attractions." Yugi explained.
Cosmo didn't even think twice to give her answer. "Alright! Tomorrow after school!" She declared. This made Yugi happy as well, since he did promise to take Cosmo to the park and he figured there was no better time than now. While he preferred to have gone during the weekend, it would have been better during the middle of the week where it wouldn't be so busy and they could hang out. Even so, they both were looking forward to it. The two walked down the streets as they passed many small shops to head to their homes. Yugi stopped in his tracks, gasping as he noticed something that caught his attention. "Huh? What's the matter, Yugi?"
"Look over there!" Yugi pointed over to a store across from them. In the large window, he could see a poster of Duel Monsters plastered on the glass. Most noticeably were a magician figure with an anamorphic ox with red battle armor. "I can't believe they're selling Duel Monsters! I've been meaning to upgrade my deck!" Yugi declared, as his feet were already running over to the store. Cosmo chuckled at his enthusiasm, as she was about to follow after him. Her eyes caught sight of a car turning the corner and coming around near where her friend was in the street.
"Yugi! Watch out!" She shouted. He turned around in time, seeing the vehicle only a few feet away from him. Yugi quickly jumped back, while the wheels turned and hit a street post to bring it to a stop. Cosmo quickly ran over to Yugi who had been knocked to the ground after that near-death experience. "Yugi! Are you alright?" She knelt by his side, trying to help him up. Her blue eyes turned to the car, wondering if the passengers and drivers were alright. Yugi turned in that direction as he thought the same thing. They both gasped and were rendered speechless, upon seeing the door in the back had opened to reveal the limp arm of someone.
A bystander called for an ambulance, which took four minutes before the vehicle arrived. Cosmo and Yugi decided to go along as they took the man to the hospital. Yugi wanted to go as he felt guilty for causing the accident in the first place. Cosmo went along to support him, as they accompanied the old man into the room and watched over him. The man was unresponsive in the bed, which made Cosmo be silent as she wasn't sure how to process the situation. Yugi was freaking out as he turned to his friend. "What'll I do, Cosmo? It was my fault this happened! If he dies because of me, I'll never forgive myself!" Cosmo could only stare at him, as she didn't have an answer to that question. She wanted to make him feel better, but she couldn't predict how things would turn out.
The two high schoolers were thankful when the doctor walked in, heading over to the patient. Yugi and Cosmo both stood up. "Doctor!" Yugi cried out. "Please tell me you can save this man. All of this happened because of me."
"The doctor leaned in closer to the man in the bed. "Save him?" He repeated, adjusting his glasses. "I'm afraid there are limits to what I can do. This patient is already considered dead."
Both of the students gasped, utter horror written on their faces as the final verdict had been confirmed by the medic. Yugi felt his heart sink as he believed he now had blood on his hands. "N-No way…"
The doctor noticed their expressions, so he clarified. "Oh no, the accident isn't what killed him. Actually, this person should have been dead many years ago."
This only confused the younger two as their shocked expressions turned into bafflement. "Um… what do you mean by that?" Cosmo questioned.
"Most of his vital organs are all man-made. Running on artificial fuel." The doctor explained. "I'm surprised he has lived up for so long at this point. But clearly he had gotten the best care, though at the cost of being non-human it would seem."
As if by his own words, the man in the bed began to open his eyes to respond. "In other words, I'm basically a zombie, right?"
Yugi gasped, seeing that the patient was finally awake. He hurried over to his side, looking at him with wide, apologetic eyes. "I'm really sorry, sir! If I had watched where I was going and didn't jump in front of that car…"
"Don't overthink it, you were not at fault. At any rate, the doctor is correct. I am just a walking machine rather than a person at this point." He turned to Yugi, eyeing the boy's shirt pocket. "By the way, are you by any chance a fan of games?" Yugi didn't understand why he would ask such a question, until he looked at the front pocket on his chest. He remembered he had kept his Duel Monsters cards there, forgetting he brought them along as he wanted to show Cosmo and Anzu what he had been doing to his deck. The young boy looked back at the older man, noticing he shifted his right arm out of the sheets to hold up the same type of deck onto the blanket.
"Y-you're a fan of Duel Monsters as well, sir?" Yugi questioned.
"Would you consider being my opponent?"
Yugi was hesitant about the request. Normally he would never refuse a game, especially one that was his favorite. Though he wasn't sure if he should risk playing the old man with the condition he was in. "But you're…"
"Don't back down now, games are what I live for." He declared, sitting up and placing his glasses back on his face. The moment he handed his deck to Yugi, the young boy knew he was being challenged. Grabbing his own stack quickly, he gave it to the old man as they began to shuffle each other's cards. "They are what gives me energy and keeps me going." The old man seemed to have been more chipper as they each traded their decks back, setting their own cards down next to them on the table. Since they didn't have a mat with different landscapes, they just played without the field power boosts. They drew their five cards in their hand, and once the old man declared 'Duel', he began his turn by placing a card on the table in face-down defense position.
Yugi followed up with a card of his own, trying to keep up with the monsters that the old man was laying down. He had reconstructed his deck so many times now, and he had to see if he could use it to its full potential. He kept a straight face through it all, determined to see how far he has grown since he first started the game.
Diamond saw the expression on the young boy's face, taking note of it as he managed to counteract a trap set by Yugi. 'Those eyes, despite being so determined, I can see the passion underneath.' He thought to himself, seeing Yugi react to how well his opponent managed to dodge that attack. 'He reminds me so much of Master Seto, back when he was still young and was a beginner at these games. The days before Seto would study to the point of exhaustion. When he was still so young and wanted to enjoy the games and life on his own accord.' He saw that version of Seto in this young boy who was Dueling him. Though once the game was over, he was brought back to the present.
"Aw man… I can't believe I lost so easily." Yugi sighed as he held his head.
At this point, Cosmo came inside with a few oranges she got from the cafeteria. "Seems like you were no match for him. I'm impressed he knows so much."
"As you get older, you put all that learning you had as a child into experience. I've had plenty of years as a game master, so I have had many chances to revise and create different strategies. Try not to be so forward with your gameplay, take time to actually see what your opponent is doing to figure out how they play." He advised. Yugi nodded as he would take the old man's wisdom to heart.
"Would you like an orange? I managed to get some from the cafeteria." Cosmo offered to Diamond.
"I'll help peel it." Yugi stated, as he was handed the orange and began to take the rough skin off. Diamond watched, having memories back when young Seto would bring him some oranges himself, as a way for them to take a break from their games. He would peel the fruit just like Yugi was doing, and share the pieces. Back then, Seto was much happier and carefree.
The doors to the room burst open, as the three inside turned to see Seto Kaiba himself enter with two buff guards. "Diamond!" Seto gasped, seeing the oldest Game Master in the hospital bed. He had many questions, but when he noticed Yugi, he started to put the pieces together.
"Kaiba?" Yugi gasped, seeing the CEO suddenly appear. He must have known this man though, Yugi believed.
Seto needed to deal with one thing at a time, so he first turned to his guards. "Take Diamond to Kaiba Corps Medical Castle." He instructed. The two men hurried, grabbing the whole bed and wheeled it out the door with the patient. Once they were gone, Seto looked back over at Yugi as he now understood the full picture. "I see… So the one that jumped in front of the car was you." Despite the harsh gaze he was giving to Yugi, Seto didn't sound like he was blaming him fully.
"I'm really sorry…" Yugi apologized.
Seto turned away for a moment, talking but it was more to himself than Yugi. "It seems that no matter what happens, we are always bound to run into each other. I may not be into religion or magical taboos, but not even I can deny that fate has plans for us."
Yugi ignored what Seto was muttering and wanted to ask a question of his own. "Do you know that man, Kaiba?"
Seto turned back to him, if only to give Yugi an answer. "He was the one that taught me every game that existed when I was a child. He is my master. You should consider it an honor that he made you his opponent." Yugi was stunned as he learned the relationship the old man had with Kaiba. No wonder he was so good at games, he taught Seto everything. And with such a revelation, Yugi couldn't help but see Seto as more sympathetic. "At any rate, I won't press any charges. Clearly it was a mere accident and no one got hurt. I have other matters to tend to. Goodbye, Yugi." Kaiba walked out of the room, leaving the two highschoolers alone.
"He seemed different…" Yugi noted as he watched the brunet leave.
"At least he isn't mad." Cosmo pointed out, glad that Yugi wasn't going to have to suffer any lawsuits. Even so, Yugi had a strange feeling that there was more to this than he believed.
It was much later now in Domino as the sky had turned dark as night took over. Seto was sitting in a room at the end of a large, oval-shaped wooden table. There were twelve chairs in total around the area, with ten seats taken up by men wearing business suits and were on the longer sides, leaving one empty chair on either side of the narrowed end. One chair belonged to Seto himself while the other was for the person they were waiting for.
"Have you heard anything from the boss?" One guy whispered to the person on his left.
"He just arrived a few minutes ago from his helicopter. He's supposed to be coming in soon." The other responded.
As if on cue, the doors to the room opened which revealed a tall man with small, beady eyes that showed how serious he was and superior he appeared. His hair was a muddy brown, with a bushy mustache that matched his large eyebrows. He stalked over to the one empty chair near the large window where he took the seat. The room stood quiet, as everyone looked around one another to see what was going to happen.
Seto was the first one to break the silence. "I trust the trip in Europe went well?" He eyed the man on the other side of the table.
"It was a success in the end, and that is all that matters." The man stated as he didn't break eye-contact with Seto, the two looking at each other from across the table. "Though it did take longer than I expected. And the airport got my flight date wrong, so I had to wait even more."
"Well, you are here now and we can start the meeting at your request, Gozaburo." Seto had a smug look on his face as he stared at the older man. He had been waiting for this day for a long time, and it will be worth it.
The brown-eyed one raised a brow, noticing the tone in his son's voice. However, he did have a few matters to discuss. His hands gripped the files that were laid out in front of everyone, seeing the graphs, charts and numbers as he processed it all before speaking. "The first order of business I want to discuss is related to your… amusement park: Kaiba Land, as you call it. Even though this is just a Beta version, the construction for this mere test run is more than three times over our budget, yet you are determined to not only finish it, but to advance the launch date? Explain this execution."
Seto kept a calm exterior, holding his hands together as he kept that smug look on his face. "The purpose of Kaiba Land is to capture the young generation of Japan. Putting the smiles on people's faces to help them forget about the harsh realities. While this may be considered a test run, we need to put in as much time and money as if this was the real showcase. Then gather the feedback so we know what we can improve on when we create the real Kaiba Land."
As Gozaburo heard this, he lit a thick cigar to take some smoke in. "You have such naive and fanciful ideas…" He noted. Blowing the smoke from his mouth before becoming serious and harsh. "You are an insignificant idiot! You create this park out of your own passion as a Game Master, rather than focus on the business end of the corporation!" He scolded Seto.
"But games are just the same as life. Only those that know how to play can live for so long and have something to show for it." Seto pointed out, still remaining calm.
Gozaburo was not buying what was coming out of the younger one's mouth. "Enough! I should have known better than to leave Kaiba Corporation to you while you were still so young! You are going to have to earn your way back up as you start your training from square one!"
Despite such a threat, Seto still showed confidence in his smile, while cold eyes stared at the older man. "Are you sure about that? I think it is you that doesn't understand."
"What?!" Gozaburo questioned, raising a brow as Seto was still defying him.
"I've made this my company. I've managed it my way. And the results show just that."
"What do you mean your company?" Gozaburo demanded. It was time, Seto was about to showcase his victory. Snapping his fingers, all of the men in their chairs got up and one after another, made their way over to where Seto was sitting. The ten stood behind the younger of the two owners, which made Gozaburo raise his finger to point at the crowd. "W-What are you guys doing?! You are willing to betray me so easily?!"
"It seems you were the one that was naïve." Seto told him.
"You bastard! Have you forgotten that if it weren't for me, you would still be in that orphanage? I was the one that raised you and gave you a promising future!" At this point, he was just grasping at straws.
Seto let those words pass over his head, not phased by them at all. "You are the one that has forgotten. Something you once told me long ago. 'Those that lose at the game of life have no right to live.' That was your catchphrase when you took me in and the first lesson you taught me." Seto got up from his seat, staring directly at his predecessor.
"It can't be you who does this to me… take away everything I worked and built up for!" Gozaburo shuddered, standing up as his eyes locked onto him.
Seto looked at the men by his side. "Escort Gozaburo Kaiba out of the premises." Two of the ten men approached the former CEO, grabbing hold of his arms though he struggled.
"This is not over, Seto! I will get back at you!"
That was an empty threat as he merely smirked. "You are left with nothing, and I have everything you worked on for years. Your reign ends here." Seto stated, watching as they forcefully took him out of the room, as Gozaburo looked sweaty and even pale. Seto wasn't surprised, losing everything to the one you despised the most was not an easy loss to get over. Especially when there would be no chance of regaining what you had lost. Once his 'father' was taken out of the room and could no longer be heard in the halls, he dismissed everyone. The others left, leaving Seto to walk over to the window and stare past his reflection and into the city. 'I finally did it. All of Kaiba Corporation is mine. A battle that I have fought since coming here.' A small smile spread on Seto's lips, as he managed to finally beat one of his demons all on his own. Though there was still a long road ahead of him, he will gladly face it as the biggest obstacle was removed. After so many years of hardships, he got the company under his own name.
Seto snapped out of his inner monologue as he heard the doors open, causing him to turn and see who it was. He believed it could have been one of the other men or Gozaburo, but it was a pleasant yet confusing surprise when he saw his Master rolling up in a wheelchair. "Diamond? What are you doing here?"
"I wanted to see the president of Kaiba Corp when he got back." The old man answered. "Though I saw him passing by the halls with some guards forcing him out. Then I noticed he began to clutch his chest and was having difficulty breathing." Seto turned his body to listen to Diamond, hearing what had happened to Gozaburo in the span of a few minutes. "I didn't stay around, but I heard he fainted and they were calling an ambulance."
"A heart attack…" Seto noted. Perhaps the revelation was too much for Gozaburo, so his body reacted to the stress in a harsh way. It would be unclear if he would survive, though that would be one less problem for Seto to deal with.
"I suppose this means you are officially the CEO of Kaiba Corp. To that, I congratulate you." Diamond praised.
"Are you that surprised? I was practically raised for this occasion. Even if it meant giving him such a humiliating defeat, it was the only way to fully secure the rights to this company. He was never really going to hand it over to me." Seto stayed strong even though he was speaking to the one person that helped him during his time as a child. "Anyways, you need to head back to the lab. You shouldn't be out for too long." He advised.
The older man looked up at his new fully fledged Master. Despite the hardness that Seto was trying to convey, he knew what he was really like deep inside. "Can you humor this old man and walk with him down to the lab? I wish to talk to you about something." The brunet looked down at the one in the wheelchair, seeing the smile upon the wrinkled face. He could never refuse the one who had been his teacher, so he agreed to it. The two walked out of the conference room, towards the elevator at the end of the main lobby as silence fell upon them for a while. Once they were in the shaft of the machine, the one that was standing reached over and pressed the button to bring them to the sub-lab. Only when the doors closed and the lift began to descend, was the older one of them able to speak. "Do you remember when you first came to Kaiba Mansion?"
Seto's blue eyes drifted from the panel to his Master, raising a brow. Why was he bringing that up? When he didn't answer, Diamond continued. "Gozabruo told me the story of how he got you and Mokuba. After visiting an orphanage where he donated 100,000 dollars to after winning a chess championship. He met you, a scrappy but knowledgeable child who dared to challenge him." Diamond looked up to the ceiling, smiling at that memory. "You told him you wanted to play him in chess, that if he lost, he would have to adopt you and your brother. And if he refused, you would go to the press and tell them that Gozaburo Kaiba was scared to play against a child." He laughed at the memory. "I'll admit, it would have been a funny headline."
"But it would have defeated the point of me and Mokuba being adopted." Seto pointed out.
"True, but even you once told me we need a good laugh now and again."
The young burnet chuckled inwardly, regaining his smile. "I did say that, didn't I." It wasn't a question, he knew it was true. "I had to study so much if I was going to be on his level. I practiced over and over, memorized the strategies that he tended to use, and when I saw an opportunity, I took it." Seto reflected on that day. When Gozaburo came to the orphanage he and Mokuba lived in, it was a chance to get them out of there. He didn't care about the odds, he only cared about what he would gain when he had nothing to lose. "He had me on the ropes, but I remained calm. In the end, I claimed my victory and the prize for myself and Mokuba. We would be able to leave that life of abandonment and try to make something new for ourselves."
Diamond's smile fell, as he looked up at him with a somber feature. "But even you knew it would not be that simple." He stated.
Seto had a straight posture, reflecting back on the first few years that he and Mokuba lived under the eyes of the founder of Kaiba Corp. The long and harsh lessons that he would have to endure for hours on end. He had to study for so long, and his tutors were not afraid to use harsh punishment if he slacked off or if he got distracted. Thankfully Mokuba didn't have to endure such trauma, but that meant Seto was the one that had to take it all. He bowed his head, letting his bangs cover his eyes as those memories kept flooding his mind. "I would have probably turned out exactly like him if it wasn't for Mokuba and you." Seto looked back over at Diamond, who noticed how shaken he became. "You two kept reminding me of who I really am. Even if I have changed so much."
Diamond smiled, reaching over to hold onto his hand. The brunet saw this, looking over at his Master in question. Diamond smiled as he talked. "You have not changed too much. Sure, your exterior has become much harder, and you do not trust those easily as you did before. But, that is the price you must pay for becoming a CEO of such an empire. Your heart has strayed a bit, but deep down there is the young master that I helped to teach the value of games." He poked Seto's chest with his other hand, still smiling.
Seto did not smile back, unfortunately, he did respond to that though. "He shaped me to be what I am today. He may not have always desired me to take over the company, but he did want me to be as cold and ruthless as he is. Despite him breaking my spirit, he could never change my dreams. And now that he is out of the way, I'm going to fix Kaiba Corp to be something to bring people joy and entertainment, rather than have it be a focal point of destruction and terror. That is the goal I want for this company's future." He closed his eyes, envisioning the Kaiba Corp that he was going to make. Something based around his own passion: Games and entertainment.
"One can not always dwindle in the past. If you wish to move forward, do not let what is behind you drag you down." Diamond gave his advice to Seto, which he had always lived by. "You have a bright future, Seto. Kaiba Corp needs someone like you to change its image for the better. Those that have struggled and work hard always come out on top in the end." Even though Seto heard that lesson before as a child, he still carried them to heart. The elevator stopped, opening its doors to reveal the sub-lab deep under the building. "Well now, I better get some rest then, shouldn't I?" Diamond mused as he began to roll towards the metal door where his cocoon was.
Seto stepped over to him, wanting to say a few more things. "Diamond… before you go, there is one more thing I want to discuss with you."
The wheelchair bound turned towards his Master, raising a brow. "Is it another job?" He asked.
"In a way. That young boy that was in your hospital room after the accident. His name is Yugi Mutou."
Diamond smiled at the mention of that high schooler that played Duel Monsters with him. "Ah yes, he reminded me a lot of you when you first started playing games." He noted. Hearing that made Seto blink, wondering how or why Diamond came to that conclusion. He didn't see any similarities between him and Yugi. He ignored that comment, and explained further.
"He may seem inexperienced, but he is actually a lot more coordinated in games than he lets on. When he becomes really serious or in danger, he will change his expression. It's almost as if he becomes a different person in a way."
"That child? He could hardly even keep up with me." Diamond seemed baffled by the notion Seto was making.
"So did I when I first began to play. But in time, I grew to be on your level." Seto pointed out. "Yugi may seem innocent, but given the circumstances he can turn the tables. He even managed to beat the other three Game Masters with no problem."
Now Diamond grew more curious as he heard that piece of information. "He took down Sheldan, Fuwa and Aileen?" Seto nodded. The old man hummed as he thought about it. "Is he… the real deal as you say?"
"The problem is he only shows that side if he is in danger or if the stakes are raised. But we have eyes and ears watching over him at certain times so we should be able to figure out his next move and use it to our advantage. I already have an idea of what to do, I just need you to challenge him in a game." Seto explained.
"So you want me to beat him?" Diamond asked.
"No… I only need you to challenge and test him. If you manage to beat him, then I won't be too surprised since this is you we are talking about."
"And if I don't?" Diamond wondered.
Seto placed his hands behind his back as he grew serious. "Then it will prove that he is the rival I have been looking for."
Diamond now understood what this was about. Seto found someone that dared challenge him and change everything he stood for. He was not a petty man like his adoptive father, but he also was not one to back down from a challenge when it was presented to him. He could see that his Master had a fascination with this Yugi fellow. Though he did not know the full details, he knew that he could never refuse the will of Seto. If this was what he wanted from Diamond, then he would deliver. "Very well… I will challenge him to Duel Monsters. But, may I ask for one thing?"
Seto raised a brow, though he gave a curt nod. "What is it, Diamond?"
The old man looked down to the floor, not even making eye contact as he made his request. "Should I lose in this Duel, I wish to have you pull the plug on me." Seto's eyes shrunk upon that request. He whispered Diamond's name, wanting to protest but the old man went on with his explanation. "Master Seto, as grateful as I am for you to have used Kaiba Corps technology to keep me alive for so long, I have started having my doubts. I have served this company for over fifty years, more so when I was given this artificial body. I have watched many other servants come and go throughout the time I worked here. I also had my ups and downs in this business, but I never regret the choice I made. And the years I spent training you have been the best ones of my life. I even considered you like a grandchild to me." Diamond admitted, looking back up at Seto now as he smiled happily. "Seto… I am honored you kept me alive for much longer than the doctors would have given me. I am proud to be the strongest of your Game Masters. However, when I laid in that hospital bed and the doctors told me about my state… it made me realize how much I've cheated death."
"Diamond… you…" Seto wavered, as he listened to his master with a heavy heart.
"I am happy you kept me on for so long and made me an honorary Game Master. It showed how much you truly care, and I enjoyed crushing those that stood in your way. But, life is a game, and those that know the rules and have the power are the ones that make the most of it. My game should have ended that day, but I kept going. If there is one thing I hate more than losing, it's the thought of cheating."
Seto sighed, he understood where his pride was coming from. Even he was not one to deny someone of their rights to lose should the time come. As much as he wanted Diamond not just for his skills as a Game Master as well as his only parental figure that truly motivated him in a positive manner, he knew that he wanted to finally let his life be over and go in peace. It was the least he could do. "Very well… but only if you lose. And make sure you give it your all!"
Diamond nodded, smiling still. "I will not fail you, Master Seto." He promised, heading back to his cocoon so he could rest up.
Thursday afternoon rolled around and on that day, Cosmo and Yugi were at Domino Amusement Park. As promised, the two would spend the rest of the day there together and hang out. It was good timing as well, as there weren't many people out which meant they didn't have to wait long for the rides and attractions. "It sure seems quiet for a park." Cosmo noted as she looked around. They were still wearing their school outfits since they came straight from the campus. They wanted to do as much as they could before it got too dark.
"Well, we did come here on a weekday." Yugi pointed out. "At least we still have a few hours before the sun starts to set. So, what should we do first? Attractions or rides?"
Cosmo hummed as she thought it over. Then smiled over at him. "I'm fine with either. Since this was your idea, it's only fair you pick the first attraction we go to."
"Alright, then let's head over there!" Yugi declared, grabbing Cosmo's arm as the two started to run through the park.
'Yugi sure can act like a kid at times…' Cosmo noticed as she ran alongside him. 'But I like that about him the most: his innocent nature.'
Yugi stopped as he looked up at a large building. "Alright! A monster house!"
"Isn't this one more of a Halloween attraction?" Cosmo questioned, looking at the not-so-scary building.
"What do you say Cosmo? Want to head inside?"
Regardless, the girl nodded. "Alright, but you can go first."
Yugi smiled as he walked right in, while a thought came to his head. 'Come to think of it, in many horror movies there would be a situation that ends up with the girl scared and embracing the boy.' Yugi began to picture Cosmo seeing a large monster, becoming frightened to the point she would turn and hug Yugi for comfort and protection. Yugi admitted he wouldn't have minded if that happened, but to his surprise, as they were on the walkway with the creepy creatures, he could hear his friend giggling. Cosmo even went as far as to reach up and touch the nose of a sea serpentine "So cute." She laughed while looking at the demon.
"Aren't you scared of them?" He asked, hearing her mock the monster.
She shook her head. "They are clearly fake, not life-like at all. That's why I'm not too scared." Yugi had to admit that she did have a point. The designs on the monsters looked far too generic to the point not even he was scared of them. He took notice of the other creatures, not at all impressed.
'Maybe coming in here during the day was a mistake.' He thought to himself. When he heard Cosmo scream all of a sudden, Yugi laughed at first. "What's wrong? Is it not 'cute' anymore?" He joked, turning around only to have his face drained of color. The serpent monster suddenly held Cosmo with its tail, as it lifted her up so her head was in near contact with the teeth. She was terrified, being held captive as she looked down at Yugi. When he saw the state she was in, he began to panic. "Cosmo!" He shouted, stepping forward to try and get her down. His feet began to shift, as the platform he was standing on rose up.
"Y-Yugi?" Cosmo could only watch him being lifted up, as he found himself on a stage high above. When he stepped onto the large arena, he gasped as he noticed a table with two chairs in the center. In one of the seats was a familiar old man in a wheelchair, his expression serious as the light reflected off his frames.
"M-Mr. Diamond?" Yugi gasped, seeing the guy from the hospital yesterday before him. While he appeared to be healthier, he did not seem as peppy as before.
"I apologize in advance for this, Yugi Mutou, But I have been given orders to challenge you to a Duel Monsters match. A request I can not deny.
"Duel Monsters? Request?" Yugi could only repeat what he was hearing.
"Listen carefully, Yugi Mutou. We will make this game with high stakes." Diamond explained. "Should you win, I will forfeit my life. Should you lose, that girl down there will have her head bitten off from that monster." He pointed at Cosmo, whose head was right in the mouth of the sea-beast, though the maw was still wide open enough for her to be safe, for now.
Yugi turned back to see the Game Master ready for the Duel. This was insane! If he won, then Diamond would die, and he didn't want to get blood on his hands. However, should he lose then Cosmo would be the one to pay. This was an uncomfortable situation, but he could not do anything about it. The high schooler took the seat opposite of his opponent, shuddering as he was forced to play this game. "A-Alright… I'll accept this challenge." He spoke with a slight waiver of his voice.
Diamond nodded, his deck on the table as he waited for Yugi. It was a good thing that he decided to challenge Jounouchi and Honda to some Duel Monsters during lunch, as he brought his deck with him. He gave his own deck to Diamond, as the man gave his to the high schooler. They shuffled each other's cards, just like back at the hospital. This time though, it was not a simple and fun game, but a challenge with high stakes and lives on the line.
Once they got their own decks back, they picked the top five cards in their hand. "There won't be any map for this version, we are playing a clean field so no added boosts. Two thousand life points, and the one to reach zero loses." Diamond explained the rules, which Yugi was able to follow. "I shall go first." The old man declared, becoming serious as he checked over the cards in his hand. "I will set one monster in face-down defense position, and place a card face down. That will end my turn."
Yugi drew a card from his deck, having six now while Diamond only had three. 'A card in defense mode and a face down… it has to be some trap.' He theorized. 'I don't want to risk using my strong monsters now, but I don't want him to have an army either.' Yugi set a card on the field. "I summon 'Feral Imp', in attack mode!" He summoned a green, furry monster with a single horn on its forehead. It was a level four monster with a dark attribute and fiend type. Its attack was 1300 while the defense was 1400. It should be enough to at least take on a face down. "I'll have it attack your defense monster!" Yugi declared, as he watched Diamond flip the card over to reveal the monster. This surprised the high schooler as he saw what the card was. 'Frenzied Panda?' It was a low level monster with only 1000 defense points, so Feral Imp had no problem slashing though. Though Yugi was bothered by the fact that he had such an easy win, without triggering the face down card. 'He didn't use the face down for the monster… which means it can't be a trap. But why didn't he use it this turn?' Yugi couldn't dawn on it for too long, as it was his turn.
Diamond drew a card from his deck, now having four in his hand. "I place a monster in face-down defense position. Then I reveal my trap card, 'Anti-spell Fragrance'. We both must set spell cards before activating them, and can not activate them until our next turn after setting them." Diamond explained before ending his turn. This caused Yugi to bite his lip and stare at the board, realizing that he wouldn't be able to activate spell cards on their own turn unless they set them face down first. This would be a bit tough, since he mostly beefed up his monsters with spells right away. Still, if Diamond was still playing defensive, he could have a chance.
Yugi drew to have six cards again, as he planned a strategy. If he could get a monster army, he would be able to overwhelm Diamond, then beef them up later if he needed to. "I'll… set one card face down. Then I'll summon 'Winged Dragon of the Fortress'!" Yugi declared, as his new monster was a level four. It was a dragon attribute with a wind type, 1400 attack and 1200 defense. "I'll use it to destroy your monster!" He declared. Diamond flipped his monster, which was a snake-like creature. 'Giant Red Seasnake?' Yugi was surprised, despite that monster having a defense of 800, it had an attack of 1800. 'That monster had enough attack points to take down both my monsters. Why would he sacrifice it like that?' For a supposive Game Master and having easily beaten Yugi before, Diamond seemed to be playing like a beginner. Regardless, he ended his turn.
Diamond drew from his deck, using the three cards in his hand and placed them on the field. "I will set three cards face down, then end my turn."
'Huh? He didn't summon a monster this turn?' Yugi was confused by that. 'Then the others must be spell and trap cards. Without a target, I can't attack. Even so, I have to end this soon.' Yugi declared, drawing a card to have five in his hand. That was when he noticed a particular spell card. 'Horn of the Unicorn! I can use this to beef up one of my monsters! But as long as he has that permanent trap card on the field, I'll have to wait a turn to play it after I set it.' Yugi realized. "I'll set a card face down, and then summon 'Blackland Fire Dragon' in attack mode!" His new monster was a level four, dark dragon, with 1500 attack and 800 defense. Now he had three monsters on the field, not really the strongest army but he had more monsters than Diamond. Hopefully he could end this quickly. "I end my turn."
"My turn." Diamond stated, having only a single card in his hand. But it was all he needed. "I summon 'Firewing Pegasus', in attack mode!" Yugi gasped as he saw the card to reveal a fire attribute, beast type that had 2250 attack and 1800 defense points. It was far more powerful than any of his three monsters currently. "Then I reveal one of my face downs, 'Molten Destruction'. This card is a field spell, and it gives all monsters with the fire attribute an added 500 attack boost, in exchange for lowering their defense by 400 points." The old man explained, meaning that his monster now had 2750 attack and 1400 defense points. But he wasn't done yet.
"I reveal another face down, 'Pot of Greed'. This card allows me to draw two cards from my deck." He now had two in his hand, ready for another move set. "And then I will reveal my next face down, 'Ancient Rules'. This card allows me to special summon a level five or higher monster from my hand. And I chose 'Bottom Dweller'!" His new monster wasn't as powerful, just a water-fish monster that was level five, sporting 1650 attack points and 1700 defense points. However, it was powerful enough to take down any of Yugi's monsters.
"Now then, 'Firewing'' destroys your 'Blackland Dragon'!" Diamond declared, placing the card on top of Yugi's dragon, reducing Yugi's life points from 2000 to 750. As if that wasn't bad enough, there was another monster. "And 'Bottom Dweller' will attack the 'Winged Dragon of the Fortress'." That made Yugi down another monster and had five hundred Life Points left. Now the tables were turning in Diamond's favor. "You've already lost so many Life Points, but it is your friend who is going to pay for that." Diamond pointed behind the high schooler, as he turned to see the serpentine was now holding Cosmo closer to the mouth. The sharp teeth on the monster were just mere inches away from her neck. The young girl was so terrified that her vision began to fade, causing her to faint in the tail of the beast.
"Cosmo!" Yugi cried out, realizing how serve the situation for his friend had become. If he ended up going down to zero Life Points, she would lose her head! This was unfair, she didn't do anything to deserve this!
Diamond kept his gaze upon Yugi as he stared at Cosmo's torture. He knew this was morally wrong, but it would be the only way he could bring out that serious side that this high schooler was rumored to possess. He didn't have to wait long, as the Millennium Puzzle around Yugi's neck gleamed a bright golden shade, which flashed on Yugi's skin before he turned at Diamond, glaring at him with hateful eyes of a different shade and shape. "You dare to fully threaten an innocent girl just to get to me?! That is unforgivable!"
Diamond noticed the change in his exterior, realizing that this hatred sparked the 'Other Yugi' that Seto had mentioned. This had to be that man, the one who managed to beat the other Game Master and drew a tie with Seto himself. Even Diamond could sense not only had 'Yugi' changed, but so did the atmosphere and the game itself. "You can make your move now." Diamond declared, since he had nothing else to do.
'Yugi' drew from his deck, having four cards now. "My turn!" He looked over his hand then checked the field to determine where he was before setting up his next move. 'Right now, he has the highest attacking monsters on the field. While I have my 'Feral Imp', 'Horn of the Unicorn' and 'Monster Reborn' on the field. Even if I used the 'Horn of the Unicorn' on my 'Feral Imp' it won't be strong enough to take down any of his monsters. I can't risk losing anymore Life Points…' Without much of a choice and options, 'Yugi' switched his monster to defense position. Even if it were to be destroyed next turn, at least his Life Points would be safe.
Diamond drew his card, having only one in the hand. He didn't play anything this turn, instead he used his fire-type monster to attack 'Yugi's' remaining one, leaving his field empty. "Looks like this Duel will be finished soon. No one can come back from my army. It was too early for you to go up against me." Diamond stated with integrity, though there was no hatred in his tone. Even 'Yugi' was aware that the old man was not doing this out of any malicious intention. Even so, the penalty was real so he considered this personal.
'Yugi' drew his card, checking over the five in his hand. He needed to figure out what to do now. The cards in his hands were four spell cards: 'Rush Recklessly', 'Fairy Meteor Crush', 'Mage Power', 'Block Attack', and the last was a trap card, 'Negate Attack'. 'There's no way any monsters I have right now will be able to defeat his strongest. All I have is 'Monster Reborn' and 'Horn of the Unicorn'. Even if I try to beef it up, I doubt I can draw one in time. And with no other monsters in my hand, along with the fact I can't activate these spell cards until the next turn, it isn't looking good.' Still, 'Yugi' knew he could turn this around, he just needed to figure out how. 'None of the monsters in my graveyard would be strong enough at the moment. And I need to wait a full turn before the spell cards can be activated… wait, spell cards!' His eyes lit up as he thought of that notion. 'Of course! That's the one flaw of his trap card!'
"I reveal my face down card, 'Monster Reborn!" 'Yugi' declared.
Diamond raised a brow. "You're bringing back a monster from the graveyard? What good will that do?"
"I'm not bringing back a monster from my graveyard." 'Yugi' smirked. "I resurrect 'Giant Red Seasnake!'"
"What?!" Diamond was confused, even more so when, instead of just taking the card from the Graveyard, the very monster was brought to life via illusion on 'Yugi's' side, in attack position. The Game Master was shocked, seeing the creature materialize before him.
"That isn't all! I use my other face down! 'Horn of the Unicorn'! This gives the equipped monster an extra 700 attack points. I will place it on Red Seasnake!" Now, the water monster on 'Yugi's' side of the field was brought up to 2500 attack points. "I will use it to destroy your 'Bottom Dweller'!" Upon that command, the monster that was now under 'Yugi's' control, destroyed the weakest monster on his opponent's side, bringing Diamond down to 1150 Life Points.
"You may have taken one of my monsters, but don't think for a second that you have the lead." Diamond warned, brushing off his astonishment between the turn around and real-life monsters.
"Maybe not yet, but I will end my turn by placing four cards face down." 'Yugi' smiled.
Diamond drew from his deck, looking over at the monster he had right now. 'I could attack his monster with my 'FireWing', but it wouldn't be enough to bring down the rest of his Life Points. Then again, he could have some more spell cards to boost up his monster. I can not let him do that!' It was a risk, but so was not doing anything this turn. "Destroy his monster, 'Firewing'!" Diamond declared, watching the hologram of the horse attempt to attack the snake.
'Yugi' smiled wider, as he was grateful Diamond fell into the trap. "I reveal my face down card!" He flipped one of his face downs, showing a purple card. "Your trap card can only affect spell cards, but trap cards such as 'Negate Attack' are not affected. Now you are unable to attack for the rest of your turn."
Diamond cursed at himself, as he made such a rookie mistake. He should have known 'Yugi' would be able to use a trap card. Admittedly he was impressed that he used that loophole to his advantage. Normally everyone would be tipped off, believing they couldn't use spells and trap cards in the same turn. Now he would have to wait and watch what would happen.
Without being able to make any more moves, he ended his turn. So now, 'Yugi' drew from his deck. "Now then, I will reveal my three other face down cards. First, I will reveal 'Rush Recklessly'. This card will increase the attack points of one monster on the field for a single turn, and I chose 'Giant Red Seasnake'!" Now, 'Yugi's' monster had a total of 3200 attack points.
"Is that all? Your monster may be stronger now, but even if you manage to destroy my 'Firewing', I will still have higher life points." Diamond pointed out.
"I'm not done yet. I still have two more face downs. My second card is 'Block Attack'! I can choose one monster on the field and change it to Defense position. And I will have it affect your Pegasus!"
"Impossible! Why would you resort to having my monster in that position? I won't lose any Life Points if you attack a monster in Defense!" Diamond pointed out. Sure, the defense of his monster was lower than the attack, but why would 'Yugi' beef up his monster with the spell cards unless…
"I still have one more card on the field! 'Fairy Meteor Crush'! When the equipped monster attacks a defense position monster, I can inflict the battle damage to my opponent!" 'Yugi' explained, which made Diamond's eyes dilate as he now understood his opponent's strategy. In just a few turns, he was able to take the lead and manage to become victorious. "Red Seasnake! Attack his Pegasus and win the Duel!" With that command, the monster he brought to life attacked the fire type. The illusion of the snake bit into the neck of the winged beast, as it neighed in pain. Diamond's Life Points went all the way down, making him the loser.
The old man stood where he was, watching his defeat with his own eyes. While he was surprised, he wasn't disappointed. Especially when a small smile spread on his face, before bowing in respect. "Congratulations, Yugi Mutou. You managed to defeat me." The old man showed good sportsmanship, but when he attempted to get up, his body failed him as it grew heavy, causing him to fall.
'Yugi' hurried to his side. Despite being his opponent, there was no ill-will between them. "Mr. Diamond!" He held him close, trying to keep him steady. "Hey, stay with me!"
With a weak smile, he spoke to the young man. "It's alright, this is the path I have chosen. Should I have been defeated, then this would have been my last challenge. I can not survive without the support of Kaiba Corps medical equipment. But I chose not to use it anymore. For my life has prospered long enough. And if I had to go, I wanted it to be where I was defeated in a game by the one who is a rival to my master. So I accept this fate with open arms."
"Diamond…" 'Yugi' breathed, holding the Game Master a while longer as some guilt flooded into him. Even though he knew his victory would mean Diamond's death, he believed it was a bluff at first. 'Yugi' was startled as he heard the sound of gears turning, so he looked behind him. The serpentine that was holding Cosmo placed her down on the walkway, letting her sleep on the floor. At least she was safe.
"Your fight is not over," Diamond warned, using what little breath he had left to gain 'Yugi's' attention. Once the eyes were back on the Game Master, Diamond continued. "You have passed all the tests, meaning that you will have to face him next… Seto Kaiba." 'Yugi' blinked. Seto Kaiba? Wait… so those people that had shown up in 'Yugi's' life the past couple of months, challenging him to these games with his friends' lives on the line… that was all orchestrated by Kaiba?! Diamond soon rolled his eyes, as his body grew limp before he finally felt what little life he had left in his form fade away. All the while the high schooler could only watch as he was finally surrendering to the game of life. At least now he understood what had been happening, and though he was annoyed at Kaiba, he would deal with him when the time comes.
He set the old man down, turning back to the staircase and heading to where Cosmo was, so he could check on her. She was still unconscious, but at least she was unharmed. He would have to wait until she woke up before they could leave. The threat of Kaiba was still in his mind, as he wondered what he would have planned for 'Yugi' next. Whatever it was, he would be ready for it.
Night fell upon Domino City, as Seto was sitting at his desk tending to his business while also waiting on Diamond. He did get a call from one of his subordinates that Gozaburo had suffered a heart attack as they were escorting him out. By the time he got to the hospital, he was pronounced dead. At least Mokuba or Diamond weren't able to see the man in such a state. Even Seto was relieved he didn't have to watch the man die like that before him. As much as he hated Gozaburo and stole his assets and company, he wasn't morbid to the point of taking pleasure in seeing him die. Unfortunately, that wasn't the only death that Seto would receive that day. "Diamond… is deceased?" Seto asked on the phone, processing the information.
"Yes, the hospital reported him dead a few hours ago. All the gel in his artificial organs ran out, and we couldn't get him to the Medical Castle in time." The one on the other end told him.
Seto had no emotion in his face. He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath as the news sank in. "It was his choice that if he lost, he would forfeit his life. I have to respect his wishes, even if I did not like them." Those blue eyes, despite not wavering on the outside, still held memories that were washed over by the present. "We should begin funeral arrangements at once. I wish to give him a final farewell before the grand opening of Kaiba Land Beta."
"I will take care of the preparations, Seto Kaiba." The worker promised, before ending the call with the brunet. Seto sighed, getting up from his desk and looked out the window to see the city he lived in, the one he towered over. It was so strange, yet funny. As a child, he had nothing. Now, as a young adult, he was the head of a large company that ruled over not just Japan, but most of Asia with the products expanding to many other countries. Even if that meant he had to sacrifice so much just to get where he was. In terms of people, mentality and spirit, it was the only way he would be able to stand where he was. But before he could claim it all, there was one spot in his past that he had to remove entirely. "Diamond… Thank you for your service. Your sacrifice won't be in vain. You've shown me that Yugi is a worthy opponent for me. Someone I must defeat to overcome my failure. That will be my biggest challenge." And he had plans for Yugi when the time came.
The phone rang again, which made Seto turn. He went back to his desk, answering it as he believed it to have been the funeral arrangements for Diamond. "Hello?" He answered.
"Mr. Kaiba, this is Mr. Sato from the Kaiba Land team. I'm here to give you a progress report."
Seto sat back in his chair, becoming professional as he heard Mr. Sato. Diamond would have to wait just a bit longer, as he needed to hear the report. "Go ahead."
"We managed to get everything put in, and will be running our final tests and repairs tomorrow. If all goes well, we should be able to open up the park this Sunday." He informed the brunet.
Seto smiled, finally some good news for once. Admittedly, he was surprised that it was going much smoother than he anticipated, but then again he was the one to ask for it to be finished at the start of June. Which meant he needed to prepare for the final match between him and his rival. "Thank you, Mr. Sato. Keep me updated on how the rides and attractions are operating."
"Very well, Mr. Kaiba. We will give you an update tomorrow." Mr. Sato promised before he ended the call.
Seto stayed at his desk, holding his fingers up to his chin. So much to do and so little time, thankfully he had enough money to make it happen. Though he had to prepare for that day that was upon him. "Yugi… I will crush you in my own park that I created. And there, I can finally put an end to the nightmares and embarrassment you have given me. This will end… soon." It came out as both a promise and a threat.
