What's up, guys? Sorry for the long wait but I've had my hands full. School's been tough and I've been working on my D-Frontier fic. Anyway, the long wait is over and here I shall present you with Chapter 27. Takato and Duke will start their duel while the second battle royal takes place. Anyway, that's enough talk out of me. On with the fic!

Takato Takes Center Stage! Inumon and Basilikmon Renew Their Grudge!

Phoenix Arena

Inumon and Terriermon stood at the center of the ring waiting for the arrival of Chakkoumon.

"Lookie! It's Chakkoumon!" Terriermon said. "This ought to be pretty good."

"Basilikmon is in this battle royale match. Terriermon, you leave that snake to me. Got it? I have unfinished business with him."

"Understood," Terriermon replied in a serious manner. "After what he did, I can't blame you."

"Thanks, Terriermon."

"On the other hand, we don't we triple team that snake bastard. We can take him out of the tournament if we work together," Terriermon said. "Besides, we shouldn't even be fighting Chakkoumon until we get rid of Basilikmon."

"As long as I get to kill him, I don't care. I'm sure Chakkoumon would agree to our terms."

"Cool. Hehe. We're so going to lay the smack down on Basilikmon's candy ass."

"Do you always have to rip off The Rock?"

"Yeah, cause he comes up with such funny and corny lines. We both have a lot in common."

"Oh brother..." Inumon muttered while lowering his head.

Etemon gathered the three competitors together in the ring. Meanwhile, Takato and Duke were preparing their decks for the upcoming duel.

Finally emerging from the entranceway was none other than the treacherous snake himself, Basilikmon. Inumon immediately growls deeply and shows an expression of hatred towards his nemesis.

"At last, I finally get my chance to avenge Kotori for you, Seadramon. I won't let you down my friend."

"All right, people! We've got all of our competitors in the ring and ready to go!" Lillymon announced. "I can see Basilikmon's not receiving a welcoming reception from these digimon fans. I wonder what Inumon, Terriermon and Chakkoumon might be thinking at the moment."

"Ladies and gentlemon! If I may have your attention please! Now, I've already explained the rules. So there's no need to go explaining them again," Etemon calls out through his microphone. "Let's get the second round started! If I may introduce you to our four battle competitors! In the ring, we have Inumon!"

The dark canine kept his attention directly onto Basilikmon and paid no attention to the roaring crowd in the stadium. Even the encouragement from his friends didn't distract him.

"Next, we have Terriermon..."

"Oh yeah! Who da man?! Who da man?!" Terriermon plays out to the crowd. "You're looking at the next champ right here!"

?and Chakkoumon!?

"Man, this is really a big crowd. Nothing compared to all the baseball stadiums I've been to," Chakkoumon muttered.

"Finally, Basilikmon!"

The digimon crowd immediately responded with a coarse of loud boos towards the sinister reptile. He gave them a menacing glare and hisses towards the hostility. Even Inumon's friends were cursing out the snake.

"Boo! Get out of the ring, you loser!" Kazu exclaimed. "Those three are gonna tear you apart!"

"Basilikmon has a snowball's chance in hell of advancing into the next round!" Kenta said.

"Is there something that we don't know about Basilikmon? What is he hiding?" Renamon thought.

"You sense that too, Renamon?" Felinismon asked.

"Yes."

"Only Inumon is familiar with Basilikmon and that alone gives him an edge over the snake. He had better warn Terriermon and Chakkoumon about his ability to turn his victims to stone."

"That's right."

"I'm sure Inumon would have told them by now right?" Jeri asked.

"Let's hope so," Rika said.

"C'mon, Inumon. Don't keep your eye off of Basilikmon and don't make eye contact with him once he gives you that glare," Himura said.

"Go, Takato! Go, Terriermon!" Henry exclaimed.

"Hope those two give us quite a duel," Yugi said. "Say, you guys... I think we should go to the medical center to see if Bakura is all right."

"Well, I really don't think anyone would have survived a blast from a God monster," Joey replied. "I mean, he took it head on. I'll be surprised if he ever walks again."

"I had no choice. He was targeting my puzzle and I would not allow him to do so," Yugi said in thought. "Pharaohmon has gone way too far. He only used Bakura because he wanted to steal my puzzle."

"Look! They're about to start!" Mai said. "Why don't we cut the chit chat and watch these matches? This should be interesting."

"Let's see how well this Takato kid fares against an experienced duelist," Seto Kaiba said. "It should prove to be amusing..."

"Now to introduce our second set of duelists! Now dueling will be Duke Devlin and Takato Matsuda!" Etemon announced for the massive digimon crowd. "Duelists! Competitors! Take your places!"

As soon as the four digimon stood at four corners of the battle ring, Takato and Duke entered the duel dome. They shuffled their decks and placed them into their disks.

"Hey, Takato. Just because you're Yugi's friend, that doesn't mean I'll be going easy on you, kid. I duel to win."

"Ha! I don't expect you to go easy on me anyway," Takato said. "With everything that Yugi taught me, I feel sorry for you, Duke."

"Oh really? Let's see what you're made of."

"Duelists! Are you ready?!" Etemon calls out.

"YOU BET!"

Etemon raised his thumb up to give the signal to raise the dome. The doors within the dome close tightly and the structure slowly rises up towards the arena's ceiling platform. The audience looks up as the dome structure was being raised. Inside, Duke and Takato prepared for the impending duel.

"Remember what I said, Takato."

"Yeah. Yeah. You keep talking and I'll just prove you wrong."

"After I'm through with you, I suggest you go back to digimon cards."

"The duel dome has been raised! Takato and Duke will now be transported into a different section of the digital world. Etemon has determined that they will be dueling at Collapsing Canyon Falls!"

Inside the dome, the two duelists saw themselves immediately being engulfed through a bright aura of light. They screamed out, as their bodies were immediately being digitized and sent into another area within the Digital World.

"Remember! When the duel ends, they will be transported back within the dome and the structure will be lowered down! The match itself will be presented on our stadium screen for all those begging for the action! Now, onto the battle match! Etemon, back to you!"

"Well, these four are anxious to get this started! Inumon, Basilikmon, Chakkoumon and Terriermon are set!"

"Judging from the duelists, I'd say they're ready to go, too!"

"By the official authority of yours truly, let the second round bouts begin! Let's see plenty of blood and guts being spewed! LET?S GET IT ON!"

As soon as the official gong was rung, the battle match competitors stared off at one another and were ready to tear each other apart. Basilikmon was expecting the three competitors to charge him head on. Even he was prepared to attack them all at once, but he soon stopped to find Chakkoumon leaping over Terriermon. Inumon came running at Basilikmon and was caught with an elbow into his torso.

"What's this?! I thought you three would attack me head on?!"

"No way! You're mine!"

Terriermon turns around and becomes engulfed in a green column of light. He immediately started to undergo his digivolution process into the champion level. Thanks to Anubimon's training, Terriermon was now able to digivolve spontaneously.

"TERRIERMON SHINKA!! GALGOMON!!"

"Oh wow! Take at look at this! Terriermon's now managed to digivolve into Galgomon! This is definitely legal in the tournament rule book!" Lillymon announced. "Chakkoumon's going to have his hands full!"

"All right! Go Tewwiermon!" Suzie cheered.

"I hope he takes this seriously," Lopmon said. "There's still Basilikmon to worry about."

"Knowing Terriermon, he'll probably leave Inumon alone to handle Basilikmon," Dark Gabumon implied. "Those three should get rid of Basilikmon before anything else."

Emerging out from the fading column, the pants wearing, chain-gun shooting Galgomon stood yards away from Chakkoumon. The ice warrior stood his ground before his newly digivolved opponent.

"Hehehe. What do you think about my grand entrance? Pretty cool, huh?" Galgomon snickered.

"Well, you sure surprised me. I thought you'd be going all the way, but this is just fine."

As soon as the pair stopped communicating, Galgomon was the first to charge forward as he shoots out an array of bullet shots at Chakkoumon. Chakkoumon was fortunate to dodge the shots by running across the ring. The champion-level beast leaps forward and delivers a head butt to knock Chakkoumon off his feet. Galgomon lands back on his feet and poses out for the crowd by flexing his arms.

"How's that for show time?!"

"Now's not that time for that crap, Terriermon! Remember, our plan is to eliminate Basilikmon!" Inumon thought.

"What are you looking at, old friend?! I'm your opponent!" Basilikmon hissed.

The snake beast lashes his tail across and slams it against the ring. Inumon leaps away to the side and charges forward with ferocity.

"Don't you ever consider us friends, Basilikmon! I'd rather die than be declared a friend of yours!"

"I'm hurt, Inumon. I thought you would have forgotten that little wench by now. Let's move on and have ourselves a clean slate. I'll tell you what, you can even join our cause. Yui's managed to turn to our side and you should too. What do you say?"

"I say, go to hell."

"Been there. Very well then. You can join Kotori in the afterlife."

"I much rather have it that way, Basilikmon. Trust me."

With that said, Inumon leaps overhead of the snake and slams his sharp claws into his enemy's back. Basilikmon lets out a sickening hiss and began to lash around.

"Whoo! Now this is what I like to see!? Etemon called out from the podium. ?These two have quite an obvious resentment for each other! This is exactly what makes our matches great! Already, Inumon has sunk his claws into Basilikmon! But how long will that last?!"

"Go Inumon! Stay on him!" Himura cheered.

"Look, Duke and Takato are ready to duel," Tea said by pointing out to the big screen.

"We're behind you all the way, Takato!" Guilmon cries out.

"Now, we'll see how well Takato duels with Duke," Yami said within Yugi's thoughts. "Duke is quite an accomplished duelist; apart from his reputation as the creator of Dungeon Dice."

Digital World Section 35-3B. Collapsing Canyon Falls.

It was exactly how the name was described. The environment was a basic desolate landscape with very little vegetation and tree life. Surprisingly, the temperature was not hot, but cooled down by winds. In the background of this landscape, there were a set of canyons. Each of them was tilting to the side as if they were about to collapse.

Standing across from each other was Takato and Duke. Floramon appeared out from a portal doorway and checks each duelist.

"Hello again, fight fans! This is Julie Floramon to bring you the coverage of our second duel! Duke and Takato are staring each other down! It's like we're watching an old Western and one of them are ready to draw their cards. Well, let's not keep our fans in suspense any longer! It?s Duke vs. Takato! Duelists! Set your duel disks! Ready... "

Both duelists activated their duel disks and their life points were now both set at 8000 each.

Life Points
Takato: 8000
Duke: 8000

"Set and begin!!"

"DUEL!!"

Much like the start of the first duel, Duke and Takato immediately drew out five cards from their decks. Takato looks at his hand and observes Duke. Floramon stood away from the duel as far away as she could, remembering the whole incident with Slifer the Sky Dragon.

"After what happened with the last duel, I'm standing as far away as I can! Unfortunately, there are no fans out here to watch this match. Who can blame them? We're in the middle of nowhere at Collapsing Canyon Falls! I doubt anyone would want to take a vacation resort here. Sheesh-"

"Can we get started, please?!" Duke snapped. "Enough babbling!"

"Eeek! Looks like somebody woke up on the wrong side of the morning!"

"Takato, you're going down, kid."

"Don't think so, Dukey. I'm not as easy as I appear to be."

"I hate it when I'm called 'Dukey'. I get enough of that from my fans. Now, let yours truly start this duel. Watch and learn, kid. I set one monster card down in defense and I set another facedown card."

Duke places a card facedown on top of his duel disk and slides another into the slot below. Two gigantic facedown cards appear before the duelist.

"That ends my turn."

"I'm up!" Takato said. "Now, I summon forth Neo the Magician Swordsman!"

Standing out beside Takato was a warrior with long, blonde hair and a flowing blue cape.

Neo the Magician Swordsman
1700/100/4 Star

"That's not all. I now equip Fairy Meteor Crush with my Magic Swordsman!"

"What good is that going to do?"

"When the monster equipped with this card attacks with an attack power that is higher than the defense of any of your defense monsters, I'll inflict the difference as battle damage affects your life points."

"I know what the card does, kid, but you're forgetting about one thing. You've just activated my trap."

"Trap?! Darn, I forgot about those!"

"Oh, that's too bad. Now, my trap card will reveal itself! Oh, look, it's my Magic Jammer!"

Duke's facedown card reveals itself to be Magic Jammer.

"This allows me to discard a card from my hand to negate the activation of your magic card! Say adios to your Fairy Meteor Crush!"

Takato snorts angrily as his magic card was wasted, but his turn was not finished just yet. He had another ace up his sleeve.

"I'm not done yet! Now, I'll equip Black Pendant to my Magician Swordsman! This will increase his attack power by adding 500 points!"

Neo the Magician Swordsman
2200 (1700 500)/100

"Now, he's set to attack your facedown monster card! Attack, Neo!"

The Magician Swordsman charges forward as he dashes forward and slashes through Duke's facedown card. It's revealed to be a bronze-feathered eagle known as Takuhee.

Takuhee
1450/1000/4 star

The monster is instantly destroyed and fades away. However, it was in defense mode and that did not affect Duke's life points.

"To finish my turn, I'll set one card facedown!?

Duke immediately draws a card from his deck and adds it to his hand.

"Fine, all I'm going to do is set another card facedown in defense mode. End turn."

"He's set another card facedown in defense mode. That has to be another monster. Duke's been going on the defense, but I have to be careful just in case..."

Much like Duke, Takato takes a card from his deck and puts it into his hand. He overheard Duke barking out to him impatiently.

"C'mon, kid! I haven't got all day!"

"I summon Kycoo the Ghost Destroyer in attack mode!"

Now being brought forth onto the field was a bald man in a purple robe. He was holding red-spirit beads with a partial demon mask over his left eye.

"Now, Neo! Attack his facedown card! Give him the old slash!"

Following Takato's command, Neo dashes forward and hacks through the facedown card in one slash. The facedown card is now revealed to be the Morphing Jar #2.

Morphing Jar #2
800/700/3 star

It was a red and white jar with a one-eyed face coming right out of the opening. Neo slashes through the Morphing Jar and destroys it in the process. But this was at a small price. This meant that all monsters on the field would have to return to their respective decks. In the process, the decks would have to be shuffled. Then both opponents would pick up cards until there is the same number of monster cards that were returned to each deck. However, in this case, Duke has no monsters to send to his deck and he doesn't have to pick up any cards. Takato did have to do this.

"Well, Takato. Looks like I don't have any monsters to send to my deck and I don't need to pick any cards. Tough luck."

"I'm not done yet!"

Takato sends Kycoo the Ghost Destroyer and Neo the Magician Swordsman to his deck. He picks out one card and summons it forth.

"Now, I special summon Maha Vailo in facedown defense!"

Now standing before Takato was a facedown card holding a sorceress in a blue robe with an ornate hat and scythe-like wings.

Maha Vailo
1550/1400/4 stars

Unfortunately, after summoning Maha Vailo, Takato had to look through and discard several cards. He discarded each of the following cards: Dark Hole, Raigeki, Heavy Storm, Magic Cylinder, and Premature Burial. Four of them were magic cards and one was a trap. The goggle boy picks up one more card and it is Magician of Faith. He special summons it forward on the field.

"Now, I special summon Magician of Faith in facedown defense!"

Now standing by under his card with his Maha Vailo was a purple-haired woman. She was wearing a blue robe and held a staff with a crescent moon on top of it. Both monsters were concealed from Duke's sight.

"That ends my turn, Duke!"

The creator of Dungeon Dice merely chuckled and takes another card from his deck. He puts it directly into his hand.

"Good, I was just getting bored waiting for you. Now, here goes! I summon forth my Nimble Momonga!"

Emerging out from the card was a flying squirrel.

Nimble Momonga
1000/100/2 star

"Now, Nimble! Attack his facedown defense card!"

Just before Nimble was set to unleash its attack, Takato reveals his facedown card to be a trap! It was the Mirror Force! Nimble had just activated Takato's trap and this resulted in the squirrel?s own demise. Since he was a face up attack monster, Nimble was automatically destroyed.

"Damn! You're a sneaky one, Takato. Fine, I'll set one card facedown! That ends my turn."

The goggle head picks out a card from his deck. He examines it and puts it into his hand.

"Good! Now I flip summon my Magician of Faith!"

The card reveals the Magician of Faith and places her in a face up attack position.

"By flip summoning her, this allows me to move my Black Pendant from the graveyard and back to my hand."

"Oh, but now I reveal my trap card! Behold, my Blind Destruction!"

"And what does that do?"

"You'll see sooner or later."

"Like that really matters. Now, I'll flip summon my Maha Vailo!"

Much like his Magician of Faith, Takato's Maha Vailo was summoned onto the field in a face up attack position.

"Now I'll equip my Black Pendant on my Maha Vailo. This increases Maha Vailo's attack 500 points. But Maha also has an effect. It increases her attack points by an additional 500 points for each card equipped to it."

Maha Vailo
ATK: 2550 (1550 500 500)

"Now, Maha Vailo! Attack Duke's life points directly!"

With that said, Maha Vailo proceeds to unleash it's attack and damages Duke's life points directly. This subtracted 2550 life points from Duke's 8000.

Duke
Life points: 5450

"But, I'm not through yet, Duke! Magician of Faith! Attack and take away more of Duke's life points!"

Magician of Faith points her staff towards Duke and blasts him with a magical beam. His life points were damaged and 300 more points were subtracted away.

Duke
Life points: 5150

"Damn! He's better than I gave him credit for... Yugi's taught him well..."

"How did you like that, dice boy?! Having second thoughts on calling me a kid?"

"It's not over, Takato. I'm just getting warmed up. So I would stop celebrating if I were you."

"Well, that ends my turn. Show me something else you've got, Duke."

Duke starts off by adding another card from his deck and into his hand.

"Swell... Remember my Blind Destruction?"

"What about it?"

"Well, I'm about to play. Watch and learn from the master of dice!"

As soon as he said that, a dice emerged out from the Blind Destruction card. Takato looks on with a confused look on hi demeanor.

"I thought we were playing Duel Monsters, Duke. This isn't Dungeon Dice."

"I never said it was. Now, you're playing it my way. Before we start, allow me to elaborate the rules. During each standby phase, I roll one die. It destroys all monsters on the field whose level is equal to the number rolled. If a 6 is rolled, all monsters with a level six or higher are destroyed. Prepare to lose, Takato."

"Bring it on!"

"Blind Destruction! Roll!"

The dice was thrown across the field and rolls about before landing on a five. No cards were destroyed in the process.

"Ugh, not the way I wanted to start off," Duke sighed.

"Looks like luck wasn't on your side, Duke."

"Oh well. I now summon another Nimble Momonga! This time! I'll send it to attack your Magician of Faith!"

As the flying squirrel was summoned, it flew forward and delivers a painful bite onto the Magician's neck. She was then destroyed and fades into a beam of light. As a result, 700 points were subtracted from Takato' life points.

"Darn! I should have seen that one coming!"

Takato
Life points: 7300

"Yeah, you should have. Don't take your eye off the ball, kid. Just because you have higher life points, that doesn't mean you should be gloating. That ends my turn by the way. Make your move, kid."

"Don't call me a kid..."

"This duel has now just heat up! Let's take it back to the arena, as Etemon and Lillymon will be covering the battle royale! Lillymon, back to you!"

Phoenix Arena

The half of the entire crowd was looking on towards the screen to witness the duel while the others were cheering on the combatants in the battle royal. So far, it has been a seesaw struggle with the four digimon competitors. Chakkoumon had just evolved into the giant known as Blizzarmon. Galgomon did everything he could to avoid being smashed into a ground pulp by Blizzarmon.

Inumon had just digivolved into his champion form, Hell Inumon. The newly digivolved beast held his own against Basilikmon's venomous spit. Hell Inumon dashes forward and delivers a painful bite on the snake's back.

"Stay on him, Inumon! You have him where you want him!" Himura cheered.

"I've got to hand it to that mutt," Dark Gabumon said. "He knows when to take care of business."

"C'mon, Terriermon! Watch out for his axes!" Henry exclaimed.

"Wow, Takato is actually holding his own with Duke," an impressed Rika said.

"You had better take notes for our duel," Ryo said to his adversary, "because I'm not going to show you any mercy this time around."

"I don't expect you to, but the result will not be the same," scoffed the redhead.

"Hey! Inumon's fighting Basilikmon alone. Those other two should be helping him by now," Felinismon said.

"Yeah. Wouldn't it be a wise decision just to take out Pharaohmon's flunky?" suggested Guardromon.

"This is a competition. Remember that," Renamon said. "They'll gang up on Basilikmon when the time is right."

"I just hope it's soon," Guilmon stated.

Yugi and his friends kept their eye on the big screen to witness Takato's duel with Duke. The boy has shown to be a far better duelist than they had hoped for. Yugi has definitely taught Takato well, but this was also thanks in part to Takato's experience with card duels.

"He's really kicking tail!" Tristan exclaimed.

"But, it's not over yet. Takato has to keep up the pace," Yugi said. "Duke is no pushover, especially when it comes to dueling."

"Well, if there's anyone that knows about Duke's dueling, that would be yours truly," Joey said with pride.

"Yeah and he ended up whooping you," Tea muttered.

"That's because I wasn't well prepared. I wasn't even using my OWN deck," Joey replied. "Otherwise, I would have whooped him."

"Not that it really matters, but it looks like Takato has his work cut out for him," Mai said. "Though, I admit... The kid is better than I thought."

However, Seto Kaiba had a far different opinion about the matter than the others. He wasn't too impressed with Takato's dueling skills.

"Takato's not even dueling against an experienced card duelist. He should be considered lucky for not being paired up against the likes of me. Even he wouldn't stand up to my superior deck. I guess I'll just have to make an example out of Takato's sweet friend for the time being..."

Seto turns his attention over to Jeri, who was standing beside Himura. She was continuously cheering on Hell Inumon.

"Seto... So are you ready to duel that girl?" Mokuba asked.

"What do you think? I'll duel anyone, no matter who my opponent is."

"That's the Seto I want to hear."

Back at the battle ring, the four-way elimination battle match was still underway. Blizzarmon slams his fists onto the ring's surface and causes an immediate earthquake. Galgomon is caught off balance from the tremors.

"Yeow! That's smarts!" Galgomon shrieked.

Cheering on from the stairways of the audience were Bokomon and Neemon. The rabbit held up a poster board reading: GO, TOMOKI! GO!. Bokomon whistles out to Blizzarmon to show support for the ice warrior.

"You can do it, Tomoki!" Bokomon cheered. "You have this won, dear boy!"

"Go, Tomoki! Go! Go! Go, Tomoki!"

"Will you pipe it down, imbecile?!"

Galgomon was thrown off his guard as Blizzarmon slams him with a thunderous fist. The ice warrior immediately follows it up with yet another fist. Galgomon couldn't even put up a defensive.

"I must say that Galgomon isn't showing any sign of defense! That just may come back to haunt him! At this rate, the Yeti-wannabe Blizzarmon is going to ground the poor guy!" Lillymon announced.

"He's down for the count!" Etemon calls out. "One! Two!"

The Spirit warriors were cheering on their comrade, Blizzarmon, from outside the entranceway. Agunimon gives a thumbs up of approval to the ice warrior.

"Way to go, Tomoki! Now, all you have to do is eliminate one of those other two!" Agunimon shouted.

"You're looking good, kid! Much better than me at least," Blitzmon sighed.

"Don't feel bad. At least one of us will advance to the next round," Fairymon assured the thunder warrior.

"Well, at least Tomoki is being serious," Omegamon stated.

"-Six! Seven! Eight!"

Before Etemon could count to nine, Galgomon sits up from the ground and manages to crawl back inside the ring. If he had stayed outside, he would have been counted out and eliminated in the process. Henry and Suzie both let out sighs of relief.

"Heh, thought you could get rid of me? I don't think so, bucko," Galgomon said. "Because, Galgomon has come back to whoop some ass!"

"Well, the ever so charismatic Galgomon is showing a bit of resiliency. He's definitely not going to be done in by a heavy assault by his larger opponent! Guess this proves that size doesn't mean everything!" Lillymon continued on through her announcing booth.

"Hey, big guy! Got anything else left? Because I have plenty of reserves left myself," Galgomon said. "Like another evolution... Hehe..."

"Really? Well, so do I..."

"Interesting... Why don't we just save it for a while?"

"Deal."

As the two stared each other down, Hell Inumon was sent sailing across the ring by Basilikmon. The champion canine jumps back onto his feet and looks ahead to find Basilikmon slithering towards his prey.

"Great, I just remembered that Basilikmon's a mega. I won't be able to defeat him in my measly champion form. I'll need time to digivolve straightforward. But, time isn't exactly what I have now..."

"Daydreaming, Inumon?"

"No! Just thinking of a way to skin you alive and taking your fangs as a trophy prize."

"How amusing, but you're not humoring me. This is where you die, Inumon!"

Basilikmon lashes out forward and attempts another tail lash. However, Hell Inumon saw this approach coming and leaps away to the side. The canine lowers his head and unleashes a deadly electric shot through his horns.

"Black Thunder!!"

Basilikmon was immediately struck down by Hell Inumon's deadly attack and screamed in pain. Hell Inumon catches his breathe before he set out to make his next maneuver.

"Ow! Now that's got to leave a mark!" Lillymon exclaimed. "Basilikmon probably doesn't have what it takes to sit up after that one."

Suddenly, there was a sinister laugh coming out from within the clouded fog around Basilikmon's form. The dark canine looks up ahead to find the demonic serpent emerging out unscathed.

"Inumon. You should have known that I am a mega. Your attacks are just pitiful. Besides, I only feigned pain to throw you off your game."

"Should have known you would have stooped low, Basilikmon."

"Pity..."

The serpent lashes his tail out once again but barely misses his target. He looks up to find Hell Inumon leaping into the air with his claws ready to sink into Basilikmon.

"Now, you're mine!"

"Inumon! What did I just go through telling you?! You can't defeat me in your current state! You'll need that boy to help you to digivolve further!"

With that said, Basilikmon saw an opening onto Hell Inumon and lashed his tail against the canine's torso. The canine cries out in pain from the painful shot by the serpent. Hell Inumon plummets down onto the ring surface and lands face first.

"One shot and Inumon is down for the count! But, what's this?! Basilikmon's is slithering over to the fallen Inumon. Just what is this sick minded freak thinking?!"

"Young lady, you shall address me with respect," Basilikmon hissed at Lillymon.

"Hey! I'm just calling on what I see!"

The serpent noticed Hell Inumon slowly rising to his feet. This only managed to infuriate Basilikmon even further.

"Since I was unable to kill you last time, this will be the perfect opportunity to set out what I have thrived from the start! Say hello to the after life, Inumon!"

Just as Basilikmon charged forward and opened his mouth to reveal his fangs, an array of green shots was being fired from a different direction. Basilikmon turns to find Galgomon blasting him with his patented Galgo Lasers. He quickly picked up the vibration of footsteps and found that Blizzarmon had just struck him from behind with his massive axes.

Galgomon pushes Hell Inumon to the side while Blizzarmon knocks Basilikmon away. The serpent was now in a tight situation where he must face the three digimon working together.

"Thanks, Terriermon, but don't you recall? This is every digimon for themselves," said Hell Inumon. "This is my revenge..."

"Hey, we're here to win, too," Galgomon said. "Besides, the big guy and I were plotting this from the start as the buzzer went off."

"You mean... "

"That's right. Me and him duke it out while you have your fun with that snake."

"I see... Well, thanks, Galgomon. I appreciate it."

"What do you say we digivolve further and take this freak out for good?" Galgomon suggested.

"Now, you're starting to make sense!"

"Hey, big guy! Let's give this punk what he deserves!"

"Right! Hey, Basilikmon! Before we go back to finish where we left off, we're taking you out of the competition!" Blizzarmon threatened the serpent.

"What was that?! You threaten to defeat me?! That's absurd!"

"I wouldn't be so cocky right now, Fangy," Galgomon said.

As the three digimon prepared to team up to take out their common enemy, the duel between Takato and Duke was once again about to commence through the stadium screen.

Digital World Section 35-3B. Collapsing Canyon Falls.

"We're taking you back to the site of the continuation of our second duel in the tournament! Takato's so far in the lead with 7300 life points over Duke's 5150! Anything is possible and either one can turn this duel around!" Floramon announced for her position.

The ever popular goggle head takes a card and added it to his hand. Takato was set to make his turn and started off by setting a card facedown.

"I'll set this facedown. Now I activate Megamorph!"

"Are you an idiot?! Your life points are higher than mine! Your monster's attack points will be cut in half!"

"Who says it has to be my own monster?"

"What's that?!"

"That's right! I'm equipping Megamorph to your Nimble Momonga!"

"Oh, no! Now my monster only has 500 attack points and it's in attack position, too!"

"Now, Maha Vailo! Attack his weakened Nimble Momonga!"

Following the goggle head's command, Maha Vailo unleashes its attack and destroys the flying squirrel within seconds. Nimble was gone but at what cost? Duke seemed to be sure of himself. He even started to smile with delight. Despite losing life points, he wasn't even worried.

Duke
Life points: 3100

"What's that look for?" Takato wondered. "Does he know something about his squirrel that I don't?"

"You amateur! What you didn't realize is that my Nimble Momonga has an effect of it's own. Behold!"

With that said, Duke's life points were now being restored by 1000 points.

Duke
Life points: 4100 (3100 1000)

"What?! That's not good!" Takato gasped.

"That's not all. There's another twist to the Nimble's effect. I can special summon as many Nimble Momongas as I have in my deck or hand. Unfortunately, Since you already sent one to the graveyard, I only have one left in my deck."

Duke look through his deck and quickly special summons a card in a facedown defense position.

"So, are you done, Takato?"

"I end my turn, Duke."

Duke chuckled towards his younger adversary while taking another card and adding it directly into his deck.

"Good. I was just about to wonder if you were going to make your move. I roll with my Blind Destruction card! Roll!"

The die was tossed across the landscape but it only landed on a measly one. This was not exactly what Duke had intended.

"Darn! Just a one!"

"Man, they call you the king of dice? You really have bad luck, Duke."

"Shut up! Ok, now I set one card facedown in defense..."

"Hold it right there, ace! You've just activated my trap! It's my Kunai with chain! I'll equip it to my Maha Vailo. That will increase its attack points by 500. Also, because of its effect, an additional 500 is added to my Maha Vailo. That gives Maha a total of 3550 attack points!"

Maha Vailo
ATK: 3550 (1550 500 500 500x2)

"Damn! He keeps increasing his monster's attack strength! All right, I'll finish it off by placing one card facedown. End turn."

Takato looks down at his deck, takes a card and puts it into his hand. He examines his current hand and pulls out a card.

"All right, here goes! I summon forth the Two-Headed King Rex!"

A two-headed purple tyrannosaur stood before Takato and unleashes a blood-curling roar. This was exactly the type of creature that represents Takato and just about every other famous goggle head.

"Ah, not bad, Takato, but now I reveal one of my facedown cards. Behold! Another Blind Destruction!"

"Another die, huh? You sure love your dice games, Duke."

"I'm a master of my own game, what can I say?"

"But my turn isn't over yet, Duke. Now I send my King Rex to attack your facedown Nimble Momonga!"

The King Rex charges ahead and crushes the facedown defense card with its massive foot. The monster under the card was revealed as the Nimble Momonga.

"Ha! Thanks, Takato. Your Rex's attack just helped to add 1000 more added to my life points, thanks in part to my Momonga's effect. Just exactly what the doctor ordered."

Duke
Life points: 5100 (4100 1000)

"Darn, that means I've just used up all my Nimble Momongas," Duke thought. "Oh well. I've raised my life points as high as I could. I won't need anymore to crush this kid."

"Earth to Duke! In case you haven't forgotten, my turn isn't over!"

"Go ahead. I was just yawning at how much of an amateur you are."

"I'll show you what kind of an amateur I really am. Now, I'll send my King Rex to attack your other facedown defense card! I'll bet it's a monster! Now, attack King Rex!"

The tyrannosaur charges towards Duke's side of the field and crushes the card to reveal a purple penguin with a sword. This was Penguin Soldier.

Penguin Soldier
750/500/2 Stars

Unfortunately for Takato, this Penguin was also an effect monster much like the Nimble Momonga.

"Oh, man! You are such an amateur! You just crushed another one of my facedown defense cards! You've just struck out twice! My Penguin Soldier's effect forces you to return two of your monsters on the field back to your hand. So, looks like you'll have to take out both Maha Vailo and King Rex back to your hand."

"Darn, how could I have been so stupid?! Fine!"

The goggle heads takes his two monsters off of the field and returned to his hand. He takes out one other card from his hand and places it out on the field.

"I set this card facedown and end my turn. Your move."

"Finally! I was just about to fall asleep back here."

"You know I'm getting really sick of your pompous attitude, Duke. I can't wait to shut that big mouth of yours!"

"Ha, that'll be the day, kid. Now since I have two Blind Destructions on the field, I can roll twice. Behold! Dice roll!"

The first die rolls across the field and it lands on a five. This was not exactly what Duke wanted.

"Five?! Damn, nothing? Oh, well. I still have my other die. Dice roll!"

The second die also landed on a number that did not go to Duke's favor. It landed on a measly one. Both dice rolls had failed and no cards were destroyed in the process.

"Not having any luck, Duke? Maybe you ought to kiss your die first to give yourself some good luck."

"Shut it! My turn isn't finished! All I have to do is set one card facedown and that ends my turn."

"Good and now I summon back my Maha Vailo since it was forced back into my hand."

"Your dependence on Maha is getting so repetitive. Anyway, you've just activated one of my other trap cards. I reveal my Skull Dice!"

"Oh and you call my dueling skills redundant? You rely too much on dice, pal."

"Heh, but unlike my other dice, this one will not fail! Roll die!"

With that said, the Skull Dice was rolled across the field and it actually lands on a six. Duke smiled with satisfaction as the die's effect was now set into motion.

"It rolled on a six."

"Wow, you're quite observant, kid. Allow me to explain its effects. The result of the roll is multiplied by 100 and subtracted from the attack and defense of all monsters under your control until the end of your turn. So, that means 600 points are subtracted from your Maha Vailo's 1550! That brings it down to 950."

"Not good..."

Maha Vailo
ATK: 950(1550-600)

"So, what do you have your sleeve, kid? Your turn hasn't even ended."

"I know! I was just getting back to that! I'll equip my Maleviolent Nuzzler to my Maha Vailo. You said that its attack power was only 950? Guess what? With Maleviolent Nuzzler, it's attack points are increased by 700 points! Also, because of Maha's own effect, it's attack points increases by 500 additional points for each card equipped to it. Now, its attack is increased all the way up to 2150!"

Maha Vailo
ATK: 2150 (1550 - 600 700 500)

"Now, Maha Vailo! Attack Duke's life points directly!"

Following Takato's command, Maha Vailo proceeded to blast Duke and take a chunk out of his life points. The Dungeon Dice master seethed angrily as the 'amateur' was taking him to school.

Duke
Life points: 2950

"That's not all, Duke! I activate my trap card! Check this one out! My Type Zero Magic Crusher!"

"Is that what I think it is?"

"That's right. This card has quite the effect. For each magic card that I discard from my hand, I automatically inflict 500 points of direct damage to your life points."

"And you do happen to have magic cards in your hand?"

"Only one and I discard that. You lose 500 automatic points."

"Damn!"

Duke
Life points: 2450

"I now end my turn, Duke."

"Incredible! Takato is holding his own against Duke! Duke's got to be feeling this one. He hasn't had any luck with his dice. Anyway, we'll see if Duke has what it takes to turn this duel around to his advantage. Lillymon! Etemon! Back to you! How's the battle royale going?"

Phoenix Arena

"It couldn't be looking any better, Floramon!" Lillymon announced. "It's degenerated into a three on one match as opposed to a four-way battle royale! This is great strategy on their part since Basilikmon's classified as a mega!"

Basilikmon slithers across the ring and turns to spray acidic saliva towards Hell Inumon. The canine leaps away as the saliva burns through the ring.

"Hey, Galgomon! Now's the time to digivolve into Rapidmon! Hey, Blizzarmon! If you happen to have a stronger evolution, then use it! I'm going straight for my mega form!"

"Why couldn't I just digivolve into Mega Gargomon? Anubimon's training has allowed me to become my mega form! It'll get the job done faster."

"There's only a need for one mega and I should be the one to do so."

"Normally, I'd say 'hell no', but this creep has more history with ya. Be my guest, Inumon!" Galgomon calls out to his comrade. "Here that, fuzzy?! Let's see that ultimate evolution of yours!"

"You got it! Time to put Omegamon's training results to good use!"

Looking on from the entranceway, Omegamon witnesses Blizzarmon dedigivolving back Tomoki. Everyone within the crowd stadium gasped at the shock of the boy. They weren't expecting a boy of his age to competing in as the ice warrior. This exception was the Tamer and Duelists since they have already seen the spirit warriors' true identities.

"Wow, it's hard to believe that kid is actually one of the legendary warriors," Kazu said.

"I wish I had my own spirit," Kenta replied.

"You two should dream on. There's no way you'll ever become one of them," Rika yawned.

"We resent that, Rika!" the boys exclaimed in unison.

"Still, this boy shouldn't be taken lightly. He is associated with Takuya and is the warrior of ice," Renamon said.

"Hey, at least, they're going to be digivolve together. Basilikmon's gotta be shaking in his tail," Guilmon said.

"Let's hope it will be enough," replied Yugi.

Meanwhile, at the top of the skyboxes, Anubimon witnessed Hell Inumon preparing to digivolve along with Galgomon.

"Seadramon. The time has finally come for the three to slay Basilikmon once and for all."

"But I wonder if Inumon warned them about that snake's ability to turn his prey into stone."

"I thought you told him to remind them."

"I did, but he was in such a hurry to get his hands on Basilikmon. If Terriermon and the ice warrior are not warned soon, they will turn to stone."

"I'm confident in Inumon's judgment. I'm sure he warned them beforehand," Anubimon replied. "At least, I hope..."

On the other side of the stadium, Pharaohmon and Nemesis were seated in their own separate skybox. Nemesis chuckled as she gazed down upon Hell Inumon and Galgomon.

"Those fools. They really think they can take Basilikmon with teamwork? Even if they received Anubimon's training, Basilikmon won't be done in so easily. I doubt that annoying rabbit and the ice warrior are aware of his special ability."

Pharaohmon maintained his focus on the battle royale without taking an eye. He remained quiet for the remainder of the match.

"Lord Pharaohmon...?"

"Basilikmon. Now is the time to finish these fools off. Why don't you make Inumon suffer greatly by turning both Chakkoumon and Galgomon into stone? That should really weigh down on Inumon's emotions."

Finally receiving Pharaohmon's suggestion through telepathy, Basilikmon nods his head in agreement. The three were set to digivolve to finally finish off the serpent.

"Allow me to go first!" Hell Inumon calls out. "Hell Inumon warp shinka!!"

Hell Inumon underwent his mega evolution and became a bipedal wolf warrior. Armor covered nearly his entire chest and his human-like features made Inumon quite a formidable warrior. Despite being a dark digimon, he fights for the side of justice. He takes out his twin swords and slashes them through mid-air before getting into a battle position.

"Youkai Inumon!!"

"All right! Now, that's what I want to see!" Himura cheered. "Go, Inumon!"

"Wow, his mega form is so awesome," Jeri commented.

"Got to hand it to the mutt. He knows how to put on a show," Dark Gabumon said. "Though, he's still such a showoff..."

"Your turn, Galgomon!"

"Time to show my stuff! Galgomon chou shinka!!"

A green column of light immediately engulfs Galgomon. He then grows and develops a green armor body with arms shaped like missile launchers and blue eyes overlapping his once black, beady ones. The newly evolved digimon calls out his name.

?Rapidmon!!?

"Tewwiermon! We're behind you all the way!" Suzie screamed out.

"Now we'll finally see if Anubimon's training was in anyway effective," Henry stated.

"Rapidmon is back in the game! The ball's in my court and I don't intend to drop it this time around! Hey, kid! You're up! Show us what you've got!"

"Right, here goes nothing... Execute!! Fusion Evolution!!"

"What?! Now he can Fusion evolve like that big-boned guy?!" Rapidmon exclaimed.

"You can do it, Tomoki!" Fairymon cheered.

"Wow! The little guy's really is going to turn it up a notch!" Ranamon said.

"Now, Tomoki. Hopefully you are not as careless as Junpei," Wolfmon said in thought.

As Tomoki called upon his spirit, he was engulfed by a blanket of data and undergoing a metamorphosis into an entirely different form. His B-Hybrid and H-Hybrid were quickly infused with one another. He?s entirely different from either Chakkoumon or Blizzarmon. His body size was smaller in comparison and his appearance was quite odd in appearance. In fact, everyone was thrown off guard by his rather awkward appearance. He no longer resembled a fierce beast of any kind. He was now a short black penguin with a tin hat on his head. He was also holding out two Popsicle-like sticks. On his right hand was a blue Popsicle and the left had a red one.

The entire crowd did a synchronized face fault. Omegamon and the spirit warriors knew that they'd get this kind of reaction.

"Geez, why did he have to end up being a short penguin?" Blitzmon wondered. "Heck, will he even do any good against Basilikmon?"

"Well. At least, he's not out there making a complete jackass out of himself," Grottomon muttered.

"I heard that one, buddy!"

Lillymon didn't know what to make out of this odd evolution. She steps out of her announcement table and peers through to find the penguin leaping over to where Rapidmon and Youkai Inumon stood.

"Eh... I don't know what to say. I thought we'd be getting a really cool evolution like Blitzmon's, but this...?! I've never seen any evolution this... odd..."

"Lady... Just call me, Dai Penmon! This is my true fusion evolution. Don't like it? Sue me."

"Ok, we're in big trouble," Rapidmon sighed.

"No offense, but couldn't you digivolve into something bigger and more menacing?" Youkai Inumon suggested.

"I can't find any other evolution! This is the best fusion evolution I can form!"

"Geez, it was just a suggestion..."

"You know. I was just beginning to say that myself," Omegamon thought.

The big screen immediately brings up a profile screen with data on Dai Penmon.

Dai Penmon. Variable, Fusion Hybrid, Ice Element. Special Techniques: Blue Hawaii Death & Strawberry Death

"Well, despite his odd appearance, here's a little info we've gathered based on Dai Penmon," Lillymon announced. "Dai Penmon is a living ice shaving machine that dispenses frozen treats for Digimon to eat. Ooo, yummy! His enemies may mock him for his silly appearances, but their laughing stops once his icy powers freeze them solid."

"Ha! Look at that! I can't stop laughing!" a Dogmon laughs out from the crowd. "Get out of the ring, you weirdo!"

"Honestly, I can't bring myself to take you three on if this is the best the ice warrior has to offer," Basilikmon hissed.

"Hey! You heard the lady! You may mock me but I'll put a stop to your laughing with my ice powers!"

"We'll see, you little vermin!"

"Basilikmon. Eliminate Rapidmon and the ice warrior using your special ability. Turn them to stone and we'll see Inumon break down in depression," Pharaohmon communicated through Basilikmon's thoughts.

"Yes, Lord Pharaohmon. I'll end this quick!"

Meanwhile, Sailor Uranus and Sailor Neptune were watching the showdown in the ring. Even they were caught off guard by Dai Penmon's appearance. But they had just gotten their second glimpse of a legendary warrior revealing their human identity.

"Just as I suspected, Neptune. They are humans after all."

"What did you expect them to them?"

"But children? Well, this should prove to be interesting."

"I wonder how Rei and everyone are holding up on their journey."

"They'll be fine. For now, we have ourselves to worry about. Our match could be announced after this one comes to a close."

"True. Looks like we'll end up fighting one another in the battle royale. Any second thoughts?"

"None whatsoever. I'm there to win. Let the best Senshi win."

Back inside the ring, Basilikmon prepared himself for another three on one assault from the newly digivolved trio. Youkai Inumon leaps ahead and pulls out his twin swords.

"Here we go! We resume back with the action! Youkai Inumon takes the lead and has his swords ready to chop-suey that snake into chopped liver!" Lillymon announced.

"Go, Tomoki! This is your opportunity!" Agunimon cheers on.

"Yeah! Knock him out with one of your Popsicles!" Loweemon encouraged the ice warrior. The other warriors stared at him. "What!? I couldn't come up with anything better!?

Just then, Mercuremon came walking back through the entranceway with Arbormon. The wood warrior seemed to be back under control after knocking out every official that attempted to restrain him.

"Ah, so you've brought him back, Mercuremon?" Omegamon said.

"Yes and he has a request to be fulfilled."

"That being...?"

"Arbormon hast informed me of digimon gossip that several human girls were seen in the middle of the Digital World's desolate land."

"I have a feeling it's those Sailor Senshi. Call it a hunch, but I just know that they're here. With your permission, we would like to go and assist them in their journey."

"Yes, I see. So these girls are the Sailor Senshi you've been telling me about? Since you two aren't in the tournament, you have my permission."

"Thank you, Omegamon," Arbormon replied. "We will not forget this."

"Though, you two shouldn't go alone. Grottomon. I want you to go accompany them. Ranamon must stay since she has a match in the tournament. Now go before they go any further."

"All right, you heard him," Mercuremon said. "Shall thy be going now?"

Arbormon nods in reply and walks out through the back of the entranceway. Trailing along behind them was Grottomon. The trio officially set off to find the remaining Sailor Senshi and accompany them on their quest to find the Priestess' sword.

Back inside the ring, Youkai Inumon created a foul strategy and leaps overhead Basilikmon. He slashes against Basilikmon's hide and sends him reeling towards Rapidmon and Dai Penmon.

"Hey, Snaky! I have a little surprise for ya! Rapid Fire!!"

Basilikmon screams out as each missile shot nailed him head on. This gave Dai Penmon the golden opportunity to retaliate against the snake's insults towards his new fusion evolution form.

"This is for mocking me, you dumb snake! Take this! Blue Hawaii Death!!"

With that said, Dai Penmon slams his blue Popsicle against Basilikmon while freezing the cold-blooded monster in place. He then slams his red Popsicle onto Basilikmon to inflict more damage on the frozen adversary.

"Strawberry Death!!"

"Ha! Way to nail him, little guy!" Rapidmon cheered in encouragement. "Now that's what I like to call a smack-down!"

"That's what you get! You bully!" Dai Penmon snapped.

"Good! Now let's finish him while he's down for the count!" Youkai Inumon said while sheathing his swords again. "Basilikmon! You're through!"

Just as Youkai Inumon threatened the serpent, Basilikmon was slowly rising but rather than moaning... He was chuckling. No, he was cackling madly. The trio stopped dead at their tracks and wondered why Basilikmon was suddenly so excited.

"Ok, now this I don't get. Why is Basilikmon laughing?! I mean he was just getting beat down by both Rapidmon and Dai Penmon, but yet he's laughing at the trio?!"

"Wait a minute, something is not right here," Youkai Inumon thought.

"You three imbeciles think you have me defeated?" Basilikmon wondered. "How sad... I'm clearly not down for the count. Tell me, dear Inumon. Have you already warned your friends about my little secret?"

"What's he going on about?" Dai Penmon asked.

"Feh. He's just bluffing. Clearly, he knows that the three of us can finish him off," Rapidmon said.

"No... I know what he's planning! I should have warned Terriermon and Chakkoumon beforehand! How could I have missed this?!"

The demonic serpent rises from the floor and hisses at his three adversaries. In order to further agitate them, he brings his tail forward and attempts to lure the trio out towards him.

"C'mon! All three of you attack me at once!"

"Look at this! He's calling the trio out to attack him. Just what is going through that sick mind of Basilikmon? Has the fight clearly gone to his head?!"

Suddenly, Himura came into realization of Basilikmon's strategy. He remembered this from when Inumon and Seadramon confronted the serpent.

"No! He's going to turn them to stone! Looks like Inumon didn't warn them beforehand!" Himura exclaimed.

"This is bad! We have to warn them!" Joey suggested. "Yugi! We have to do something!"

"Too late... They're taking action now."

Much to their dismay, Rapidmon and Dai Penmon charged forward at Basilikmon. Youkai Inumon calls out to the two digimon in attempt to stop them from being caught by the serpent's trap.

"No! Turn back, Rapidmon!" Henry cries out.

"It's too late!" Renamon stated. "Inumon is not going to stop in time!"

"Don't you toy with us, buddy! If it's a butt whooping you want, then we're happy to deliver it!" Rapidmon screamed.

"Here we come!" Dai Penmon exclaimed.

"No! Get away from him!"

Youkai Inumon's cries had failed to catch either Rapidmon's or Dai Penmon's attention. They were solely focused on taking out Basilikmon immediately. However, the serpent had an ace up his sleeve. His eyes started to emit a radiant, golden glow. He lets loose an array of eye beams directly at the two digimon.

"You've fallen for my trap, you whelps!"

Rapidmon was the first to be directly shot by the beam. His body started to stiffen and he screamed out while his body was being transformed into stone.

"That's cheap! You just had to rely on tricks to turn me into stone?!" Rapidmon screamed. "You just botched my chance to become the champ! You'll regret this! HENRY!! SUZIE!!"

"NO!! TERRIERMON!!" Henry cries out in horror.

The beam also caught Dai Penmon. The dark canine warrior was too late to save them from the danger. The legendary warriors were even horrified by the event.

"No! Tomoki!!" Agunimon cried out.

"Tomoki!!"

"Damn it!! I wasn't aware this creature could turn his victims to stone!" Omegamon cursed.

Anubimon and Seadramon were furious over what had just transpired. The training definitely did not prepare Terriermon for the tricks Basilikmon had in his disposal. Seadramon endured painful memories of Inumon being turned to stone in the years past.

"No! Not again! Inumon! Get away from there! He'll turn you to stone again!"

"I don't think so," Anubimon said.

"What do you mean?! He wants to murder Inumon!"

"You're not getting the picture, Seadramon. Basilikmon wants to keep Inumon alive for now so that they will meet again. If they manage to face off in the next round, Basilikmon will want to inflict pain and torture on Inumon. No, he has another sick plot in store for our good friend. Inumon, please stay strong. In order to restore both Terriermon and the ice warrior, you must kill Basilikmon or destroy the emerald on his forehead."

"I choose the first option. Basilikmon must pay for what he has done to Kotori!" Seadramon hissed.

"He will meet his demise, Seadramon. I can almost assure you on that, but be patient for the time being."

Seadramon scoffed as he kept his eyes locked at the battle royal match.

The digimon pair was now turned into statues while remaining stiff in the middle of the ring. Youkai Inumon fell to his knees and dropped his swords. Tears came trickling down his face as he ranted about on his failure.

"No... No!! How could I let this happen?! NO!!"

"You've brought this upon yourself, Inumon. You should have warned these two whelps about my special abilities. Some friend you turned out to be. You not only let them down but you've let down your human comrade, Seadramon and that little wench I killed."

Those words were more than enough to set off Youkai Inumon. The warriors' eyes turned feral as he charged forward. He was ready to slaughter Basilikmon and avenge the loss of his loved ones.

"Bring them back, you bastard!!"

Basilikmon was caught off guard once Youkai Inumon blitzed out to his side and slashes him across the chest. The serpent screamed out once his adversary delivered a painful slash.

"Curse you, Inumon! The match has now been already decided!"

"Who cares! I'm killing you right now!"

The buzzer finally set off and the crowd began to jeer for the decision. Etemon had already made the count out on both Dai Penmon and Rapidmon. It seemed most likely that they were counted out due to not being active during the final duration of the match.

"No! You can't end it! Basilikmon used a foul trick!" Youkai Inumon demanded.

"I'm sorry, but I don't make the rules here. I only follow them and call what I see," Etemon replied.

"No! That's not fair!" Kazu exclaimed. "Restart the match!"

"Inumon!" Renamon screamed out to the dark canine.

"Henwy? Will Terriermon be all right?! Tell me! He'll be just fine, right?!"

"Suzie. I hate to say this but it's hard to say. He's been turned to stone," Lopmon said. "Unless we find a cure, he's going to remain that way..."

"No! He can't be!!"

Bokomon and Neemon were devastated by these turns of events. The rabbit cried onto Bokomon's shoulder until Bokomon shrugged him off.

"Tomoki! No! That was cheap! You had better make the right call and restart the match!" Bokomon hollered.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I've just been informed by the tournament committee about the situation. Since this is the first time anybody has been turned into stone, this would be a tough call to make. However..." Lillymon said mournfully. "Oh, I hate to say this, but Terriermon and Chakkoumon did not respond to Etemon's ten count. So in other hands, those two were eliminated! The co-winners of this battle royale are Inumon and Basilikmon! They will both advance to the next round!"

Basilikmon was happy to hear the announcement, but there were many others who disagreed. This included both the Tamers and the spirit warriors.

"Hey! You might as well get bribed! They were cheated!" Fairymon cries out.

"No, she made the right call," Omegamon said. "Those two weren't moving for the duration of Etemon's count. Therefore, an unpopular decision had to be made."

"But that's just not fair. Tomoki never even had a chance to fully display all of his talents here," said Wolfmon.

"There's nothing we can do," Loweemon stated. "We just can't argue with an official's decision..."

"No! But we can take Tomoki out of there before that snake plans to smash him up!"

"Agunimon!"

Defying the pleas from his friends, Agunimon flees towards the ring and leaps over to take Dai Penmon's statue form away. Basilikmon started to slither out of the ring but not for long as Youkai Inumon calls out to the serpent.

"Basilikmon! This isn't over! Just remember, there's the next round! If we manage to cross paths again, I swear I'll hack you to pieces. You have lived far too long."

"Such an idle threat, Inumon. You talk tough now, but you will need to back it up when we possibly meet again. You have plenty of time to brush up on those skills. I'll be waiting. Don't disappoint me. Killing you quickly just wouldn't be any satisfying."

As Basilikmon slithered away in laughter, Youkai Inumon growls angrily to himself. He turns to find Agunimon attempting to drag Dai Penmon along. He reaches over and picks up Rapidmon.

"Agunimon, that's your name right? I'm sorry..."

"It's not your fault. You couldn't have done anything to save them in the first place."

"No... I knew that Basilikmon had such ability, but I never thought he'd never have the power to do it again. His emerald was supposed to be destroyed."

"Emerald? Is that what gives him that power?"

"Yes..."

"Damn it... This is just not right! C'mon, let take these two to the infirmary."

"Agreed."

As Youkai Inumon and Agunimon carried the statues towards the entranceway, the Tamers immediately knew where to go meet with them.

"C'mon, you guys. We have to go and meet them in the infirmary," Himura said.

"Yeah! I have to go see Rapidmon!" Henry replied. "Suzie! Come along! Rika. You coming?"

"Of course, I am! I'm sure goggle head will pull through in his match. Anyone else want to come along?"

"I'll come along," Yugi said. "Joey? Tea? Tristan? Any of you want to come?"

"I'll come," Jeri said. "Besides, Himura could use the company."

"Then, I'm coming too," said Felinismon.

"Good. It's settled then. Follow me out," Himura said. "Dark Gabumon. I take it you and Guilmon will stay behind?"

"Yeah. I have to support Takato," Guilmon said. "I really wish I can come and do something to help Terriermon. But..."

"I understand. Takato needs your support. Well then. Let us know who ends up winning."

"You got it, Himura!"

With that said, Himura leads the group down through the stairway leading down into the ground floor. He heard that the infirmary was at the ground level.

"Hopefully this is the right floor," Himura thought. "Inumon. I'm on my way."

Digital World Section 35-3B. Collapsing Canyon Falls.

"We're down to what perhaps maybe the conclusion of this duel, but let's not count out Duke just yet," Floramon announced. "He may have lower life points, but Duke doesn't plan to falter just yet. Takato's in the lead and he has that game face on! Ooo, this is getting to me."

Takato scanned through his hand and waited for Duke to make his move. The Dungeon Dice creator picked out a card and puts it into his hand.

"It's my turn, kid! Now, I'll use my Blind Destruction!"

"You failed last time and you'll screw up again."

"I don't think so. Apparently, you haven't played with die before. Luck is always apart of the draw. Now, dice roll!"

The first die rolls across the field and it lands on a six. This was not exactly what Duke wanted.

"Aw, that's too bad, Duke. You choke again."

"I'm not finished yet. I roll my other die! Blind Destruction! Dice roll!"

This time the second die managed to roll on a four. A smile crept across Duke's face as he gives a thumbs up down towards Takato.

"Say goodbye to your Maha Vailo!"

"Ah, no!"

Takato gasped once his Maha was wiped out from the field. He was left with no other monster on the field.

?Fine! I activate Malevolent Nuzzler?s secondary effect! By sacrificing 500 Life Points, I can place Malevolent Nuzzler on the top of my deck.

Takato
Life points: 6800

"Aw, you lose 500 life points. That ends my turn by the way."

"I still have higher life points. I'm not going to panic though. You're the one who should start begging for mercy."

Once Takato puts another card into his hand, he brings down forth a card to summon a monster to the field.

"I summon back my Two-Headed King Rex! Also, I equip him with my Malevolent Nuzzler! Since I paid 500 life points to put it at the top of my deck, it's easy access to me. Now, my Rex's attack power increases by 700 points!"

Two-Headed King Rex
Attack: 2300(1600700)

"Since you have no monsters to protect you, I'll send King Rex to attack your life points directly! Attack!"

Following Takato's command, King Rex charges forward and inflicted damage onto Duke's life points. Now Duke was put at a critical state with his life points dropping all the way down to 150.

Duke
Life points: 150

"Damn it! I can't believe this amateur is beating me! He's making me look like a novice!"

"You shouldn't have underestimated me, Duke. Yugi taught me everything he knows. By the end, my turn ends. Your move... unless you want to forfeit?"

"Never! This is my last chance! Blind Destruction! Roll!"

During the first roll, the die landed on a measly two. He tried it again with his second die and it successfully lands on a four. This is exactly what Duke had in mind. Now King Rex was instantly wiped out from the field.

"You can kiss your King Rex goodbye! Since you lose your Rex, then you lose your Nuzzler. So, are you willing to risk more life points?"

"That's a rather stupid question."

Takato takes out his Maleviolent Nuzzler from the graveyard and puts it at the top of his deck.

"Anyway, I'm willing to pay 500 more of my life points to move my Nuzzler to the top of my deck."

"Feh. What good will that do? You have no more cards in your hand, and by putting that on top of your deck, you remove any chances of drawing a monster to equip it. I'll just put a monster facedown and end my turn."

Suddenly, much to Duke's dismay, the goggle head was chuckling to himself. This certainly wasn't normal for Takato. He knew he had no cards in his hand, but he had an ace up his sleeve. That would come back to haunt Duke.

"Now we have Takato chuckling?! Whatever the kid has in mind, it has to be an effective strategy!" Floramon announced.

"Hey! What's so funny, kid?!"

"I don't need a monster. I'll end this duel right now!"

"What?!"

"You forget. My Type Zero Magic Crusher is a continuous trap! So now I discard the Maleviolent Nuzzler I just drew to inflict 500 points of direct damage. Enough to wipe out the rest of your life points!"

"Oh, no!!!!!"

"Who's the novice now? I just whooped you, Duke."

As soon as Takato discarded his Nuzzler card, Duke lowered his head in shame. The last portions of his life points dropped all the way down to zero. End game for Duke Devlin.

"I... lost...?! To a novice?!"

"Heh, you should stick to Dungeon Dice Monsters, Dukey."

"And there you have it! Second duel match has been determined! Takato Matsuda is your winner!"

Duke Devlin could hardly believe at what had just taken place. This was perhaps his most humiliating loss he ever had to endure.

"If this gets televised to Earth, how is this going to effect my reputation?! I'm ruined!"

"Hey, Duke? Take it easy. It was just a duel."

"Ok, boys. We're getting you back to the arena. If you will follow me out through this portal door," Floramon introduced them to the doorway.

"Let's go, Duke."

"Fine..."

The duelists made their way through the doorway to be transported back into the virtual dome. Floramon waves out before entering through the doorway to follow the boys out.

Phoenix Arena

Within seconds, Takato and Duke found themselves back inside the duel dome. Floramon gives the direct signal to officials to lower the dome. The boys look down to see Joey, Tea, Tristan, Mai and Guilmon awaiting them.

"Way to go, Takato! I knew you'd win!" Guilmon cheered.

"That was some fine dueling!" Tea cried out.

"Ha! You kicked Duke's butt, kid!" Joey said. "How does it feel losing to a novice, Duke?!"

"C?mon, Joseph, let's not get too hostile," Mai said. "They dueled just great, but I'll give Takato a lot of praise. He's going to become a really good duelist. Though, if he ever duels me, the result will be different."

The dome finally lowered and the doors opened up to allow the duelists to walk out. Their friends greeted them.

"Great duel, you guys!" Tristan said.

"Yo, Takato! That was some sweet dueling!" Kazu calls out to the goggle head.

"Aw, c'mon. I gave it my best. It was nothing. Hey, where are Rika, Henry and the gang?"

"They went to the infirmary to check on Terriermon and the ice warrior," Joey stated.

"What?! What happened to Terriermon? Who did win that match? Don't tell me..."

"Unfortunately, Basilikmon turned both Terriermon and the ice warrior to stone," Tea said.

"On the bright side, Inumon won the match too," Mai assured the boy. "So, there's a chance to avenge them."

"You have to lead me to that infirmary. Let's move out, Guilmon!"

"Right behind you, Takato!"

"We'll be waiting for you guys at the stands!" Tristan calls to the goggle head and his digimon comrade.

"So, how was it like losing to a novice?" Joey teased.

"Knock it off!" snapped Duke.

Pharaohmon's Skybox

The dark one steps away from the balcony of his skybox and back inside to be greeted upon by Nemesis.

"Did you see the grief on Inumon's face? We really let him have it," Nemesis snickered. "Poor baby lost a friend and an ally. Now, he can go wallow in his own self pity."

"That should allow Basilikmon or anyone to take advantage of the poor fool," Pharaohmon spoke.

"Plus, I know Inumon better than anyone. If anything, he's going not want to participate in anymore matches for the remainder of the tournament."

"If that's the case, I'll send Basilikmon to finish him off."

The dark mistress takes another sip of her red wine and runs a hand across the demon's chiseled chest.

"I love the way you use that head of yours, my lord. Is there anything I can pleasure you with for the time being?"

"Not now. There's a good chance that either one of us will be called in to take part in our respective match."

"True..."

Suddenly, they were interrupted and found Basilikmon entering the room unannounced.

"Um... Did I interrupt anything?" the serpent asked.

"Nothing at all, Basilikmon. You did your part well," said Pharaohmon. "Rest easy for the moment. Your next match won't occur for quite a while."

"Yes, I really hope I end up being paired against that mongrel in the next round."

"It'll be a pleasure to see you torture that hopeless fool," Nemesis giggled.

"Just leave him with me. Anubimon's top warrior will never have the chance to avenge the loss of Kotori. Victory is surely to be mine."

"See it that you do come out on top, Basilikmon. By eliminating that mongrel, we can worry about crushing his friends one by one."

"Then, you will be last Himura. Your blood shall be on my hands," Nemesis said in thought. "It's only a matter of time, little Yui. Soon you will be merely an after thought and Himura will be dead..."

Arena's Ground Level Infirmary

The arena's infirmary holds the injured participants from the tournament and treats their wounds/injuries. The facility itself is owned and run by some of the Digital World's finest medical teams. They are said to have healed some of the deadliest digital viruses overnight. In this case, they couldn't find the remedy to restore Dai Penmon and Rapidmon.

There were two beds set across from one another inside a single room. On the right side of the room, there was a bed holding Dai Penmon. Every one of the legendary warriors, excluding the trio who departed, were in the room mourning for their comrade. Agunimon was kneeling beside Dai Penmon's bed.

"Tomoki..." whispered Agunimon while he held the petrified hand of the ice warrior.

On the other side of the room, Rapidmon was laying on his bed in a petrified state. Himura, Rika, Renamon, Inumon, Jeri, Felinismon, Yugi, Dark Gabumon and Seadramon were aside from the rest bed. Henry kneeled beside Rapidmon's rest bed and buried his head onto the statue. He was in a state of depression to see his digimon friend petrified.

"Terriermon... Please... You can at least tell me a joke... Lets hear you talk some smack... For me? Just this once?"

As Henry continued on, Suzie was crying with Lopmon in her arms. Jeri went over to comfort the girl like a mother soothing her child.

Ranamon looked across the room with sadness on her face. Looking at Rapidmon in his current state infuriated her enough to get her hands on Basilikmon. She felt bad that she wasn't comforting Suzie and Henry since that would give her identity away.

"I'm sorry, Suzie. Henry. Don't you cry anymore. We'll restore Terriermon. I promise."

"This has gone way too far," Felinismon said. "I should have been in Terriermon's place."

"No, there's nothing you could have done," said Seadramon. "Even you couldn't have been notified of Basilikmon's special ability."

"Inumon. Now I see what kind of monsters you've been dealing with," Dark Gabumon said.

"I know..."

"Wow, who would have thought we'd be seeing an Omegamon here?" Rika said. "A dream come true..."

"He's been training the legendary warriors. Even he must feel guilty of what had just transpired," Renamon said.

"Can't say I blame them," Himura replied.

Omegamon steps forward and kneels beside Agunimon. He lowered his head and lets out a sigh.

"It's my fault, Takuya. I should have trained you and your friends to prepare you for an enemy like Basilikmon. If I was aware of his dark power of petrifying his victims, Tomoki wouldn't be in this state."

"No, it's my fault, Omegamon," Inumon spoke up towards the royal knight.

"What's that?"

"I'm more familiar with Basilikmon than anyone in this room besides Seadramon here. I tried to warn them beforehand but I was too late to consider it. I've failed them. If I wasn't so obsessed in killing that snake, they wouldn't be stone now."

"No, it is no one's fault," Yugi spoke up. "You shouldn't blame yourselves for that. If anyone is to blame, it is Basilikmon for turning them to stone. It is also Pharaohmon's fault for releasing that snake back along with every other dark digimon sealed away from imprisonment."

"You're right, but is there anything we can do to help them?" Wolfmon wondered.

Himura simply shook his head in reply to Wolfmon's question.

"There's nothing we can do. There are only two ways to restore them. One of you will either have to kill Basilikmon or destroy the gem on his forehead. When Inumon and I faced him, Seadramon destroyed the monster's gem and all of the petrified victims were returned to normal."

"So... So, what you're trying to tell us is to wait with crossed arms until one of us is called to fight that snake?!" Agunimon snapped.

The fire warrior rushes past his comrades and gets right into Himura's face. He grabs Himura by the collar and holds out a fist.

"Is that what you're saying?! I'm not going to wait any longer!"

"Takuya! That's enough!" Fairymon calls out to her friend.

The wind warrior walks over to Agunimon and puts a hand over his shoulder.

"We have no choice on the matter, Takuya. You heard what he had to say. We have to wait until one of us is called to face that snake. It could be you or it could be me that fights him. Just remember, only one of us can restore Tomoki and Terriermon. I know you love Tomoki like you do your own little brother."

After listening to Fairymon's small speech, Agunimon releases Himura from his grip. He sighs angrily and walks back to his group.

Inumon had heard enough from the conversation and starts walking out the door. Just as he was about to leave, Renamon stops him.

"Where are you going, Inumon?"

"I need some fresh air and some time alone. Please, leave me be..."

"As you wish..."

Renamon steps to the side and allows Inumon to walk out the door. The Tamers couldn't blame the canine digimon. Basilikmon has been tormenting the dark canine since Kotori's death.

"Everyone. I will have a word with him. Excuse me," Seadramon said as he followed Inumon out the door.

As soon as they left, Takato and Guilmon came running in to find the teams filed together in the same room.

"Um, care to fill me in on everything?" Takato asked.

"You're late, goggle head," Rika snapped.

"Sorry, but my duel was pretty tough. I won though."

"Well, since you did win, I'll fill you in on the detail," the digimon queen replied.

Desolate Landscape and on the exterior regions from the arena

After enduring an annoying sandstorm, the Sailor Senshi found themselves at the exact spot where Duke and Takato had dueled previously. Rei looks on ahead and uses her ESP to sense out any dark chi from within the area.

"Did you sense anything, Rei?" Ami asked.

"Nothing. Did you pick anything up on your computer?"

"Hold on..."

As Ami calculated through her tiny computer, Makoto and Setsuna examined the environment around them. Hotaru picks up a stone and tosses it across the barren surface.

"Who would think that such a virtual world would be so real? Our skin texture is still flesh and the landscape feels real. It's incredible," said Hotaru.

"But, I wonder... If I was summoned here before, why was I sent back? Was my mission as the digital priestess complete?" Cammy wondered.

"We won't know until we find that sword," Artemis said.

"Yeah. Only then will we know about the priestess' origins," Minako stated. "We'll probably find some revelation behind Pharaohmon's past."

"Everyone! Keep quiet!" Ami exclaimed. "I'm picking up some tectonic vibrations from under the ground... Be careful! We've been followed!"

"What?!"

The girls stayed together into a group while the ground under their feet started to tremble. Setsuna, Hotaru and Ami pulled out their transformation sticks.

"Stay close to us!" Setsuna said.

"Don't have to tell us twice," Minako said. "If only we had our powers, we'd kick some butt by now!"

"At least I brought along my seals," Rei said. "These could come in handy."

"Rei! Behind you!" Cammy cries out.

The raven-haired girl turns to find a Scrabmon emerging out from the ground. But there wasn't just one. There were a dozen of them emerging out of hiding.

"Everyone! Henshin!" Ami gave orders. "Mercury Crystal Power!"

"Pluto Planet Power!"

"Saturn Planet Power!"

The three Senshi underwent their transformations while knocking away each Scrabmon with a bright flash of light. Rei managed to sway some off using her anti-evil seals.

"Rin, pyou, tou, sha, kai, jin, retsu, sai, zen. Akuryou taisan!!"

One by one, each seal froze the Scrabmon in their place. The Senshis' transformation managed to allow Rei some time to take advantage of the Scrabmon and plant her seals on them.

"Now guys! This is your chance!" Cammy calls out in encouragement.

"That should slow them down. Make it hasty, girls," Rei thought.

As the three girls transformed into their Sailor Senshi forms, they took advantage of the sealed Scrabmon by unleashing the best of their attacks.

"Dead Scream!!"

"Silence Glaive!!"

"Shine Aqua Illusion!!"

Their attacks managed to vaporize the paralyzed Scrabmon into data. However, their celebration was immediately cut short as another batch of Scrabmon came out of hiding. These insect warriors were wielding weapons and started powering up their patented electric attacks.

"This isn't looking good for us," Minako said.

"You say that because you don't have your powers," Artemis replied.

"No. We will and can win!" Rei stated. "All we have to do is fight through them! Pharaohmon is desperate if he's sending out his right hand men!"

"No kidding," said Cammy. "But it's going to take more than these guys to stop us from finding that sword!"

"Everyone! Let us fight together! I understand the four of you don't have powers, but we can at least put up a better chance by working as a unit," said Sailor Pluto.

"Right! I'll put up a barrier for the rest of you so you won't have to worry about any ambushes," Saturn replied.

"Thank you, Saturn," Makoto said. "All right! Bring it on!"

"I wonder how long we can hold them off without our powers," Rei thought.

Other side of the current battle site

Arbormon was leading out Mercuremon and Grottomon through the barren landscape. Just then, the trio felt a vibration of energy from beyond and felt a clash of powers ahead. Arbormon managed to recognize one of them as the Senshi he had met.

"It's her! It's them!" Arbormon said.

"A clash of powers are in the heat of battle," Mercuremon replied. "Shall we?"

"You bet! Let's move!" Grottomon cries out.

The spirit warriors fled out towards the exact location of where the Sailor Senshi was battling the Scrabmon clansmen. The question is: would they make it there in time?

Infirmary Room

As everyone was starting to settle down over the grief of their loved ones, the announcement speakers started to come on. Lillymon's voice was heard throughout the arena to inform everyone about the next set of matches.

"May I have your attention please? We've already picked out set of matches! For our Duel tournament, Henry Wong will duel against Mai Valentine! The battle royale match will consist of the following participants: Fairymon, Kurama, Brimstone and Ranamon! All announced combatants and duelists, report to the battle arena!"

Fairymon and Ranamon nod to each other as they walked out the door.

"Fairymon! Ranamon!" Blitzmon calls out to the girls. "Give 'em hell! Please, let one of you pull through."

"Don't worry. This match is ours," Fairymon said.

"You forget sugah, I'm in this match too. If it comes down to us, I'm not going to hold back."

"Bring it on sista!"

Henry takes his card deck and gives a prayer for Rapidmon.

"Wish me luck, buddy."

"Good luck, Henry," Takato said. "We're pulling for you."

"Mai's not an easy opponent, Henry. Trust me. I know how she duels," Yugi warned Henry.

"Hey, don't worry about me. Terriermon's on my side despite his condition. Well, I'm off..."

Henry walks out the door and heads off towards the aisle leading to the entranceway. He suddenly makes a stop and finds Ranamon walking down with Fairymon.

"It's her..."

"Oh? Hey, you! Good luck with your duel!" Ranamon said to Henry.

"Thanks..."

Ranamon flashes a thumbs up to Henry before departing through the entranceway. That signal alone had caught Henry by surprise, yet he had a feeling that he knew Ranamon.

"Ranamon... Could you possibly be...? All right, it's time I get tough. This one's for you, Terriermon."

Darkest reaches of the stadium

Deep within a dark, heated room, a tall and armored individual arose after undergoing a twenty-four hour meditation period. Brimstone arises and lets out a deep growl.

"It is time..."

With that in mind, Brimstone sets out through the door and starts his path to the aisle to lead him to the entranceway.

Lobby area

After hearing the announcement for the next match, Kurama sits up from his seat and started walking down towards the aisle way.

"Hey, Kurama. Kick some ass out there," Yusuke said.

"Brimstone's in there. You think you can take him?" Kuwabara asked with concern.

"We'll see. All I can do now is test how strong he's gotten since our last confrontation."

"We'll be cheering for you, Kurama," Botan said. "In fact, we'll be out in the audience stands when the match starts."

Kurama gives a nod to his team and walks down towards the aisle. He stopped as soon as he saw Hiei leaning against a wall.

"Hiei..."

"Don't you die."

"If you were in my position, I'd say likewise."

After giving his final word to Hiei, the half-demon starts his walk down the aisle way. Kurama was dead set to settling his differences with the flame titan, but he would also have to deal with Ranamon and Fairymon at the same time.

Second round matches are complete. Takato joins Yugi into the next round of the duel tournament. Basilikmon and Inumon have advanced as part of the sixteen-warrior tournament. But at the same time, Terriermon and Chakkoumon paid the price as they have been turned to stone. Now, the third round matches are set. Kurama sets off to settle his differences with Brimstone but can he even contend with Ranamon and Fairymon at once? Henry and Mai are ready to duel. Can Henry overcome grief in order to pull off a successful duel with the veteran, Mai? The Sailor Senshi are set to do battle with the Scrabmon clansmen, but now it seems they will receive aid by Arbormon, Mercuremon and Grottomon. It's an all out struggle next time...

(PREVIEW)

Rei: Hi, everyone! This is Rei Hino! As we struggle with the ever growing Scrabmon hordes. Who are these three warriors?

Arbormon: Pharaohmon really is getting desperate if he's sending out a rotation of troops to knock you guys off your game.

Pharaohmon: My Scrabmon are falling. Very well. I?ll just revive an old faithful soldier of my once great army. Scorpionus, awaken!

Scorpionus: Lord Pharaohmon. I shall carry out my duty and destroy the enemy! Scorpionites, come to me! My Scorpionites are far superior to the Scrabmon and they alone will prove to be a test for these Sailor Senshi.

Yugi: Tea. What do you say we go and check on Bakura?s condition?

Bakura: Foolish Yugi. You forget that a portion of my dark essence is still lurking within your puzzle. I shall torment you like never before...

Henry: Meanwhile, I start my duel with Mai Valentine. Let's hope my deck will prove to be useful in the end.

Kurama: Brimstone, we meet again...

Brimstone: I've undergone extreme training for the moment I've had my chance to fight with you and your comrades, Kurama. To show my gratitude, I shall remove my armor.

Fairymon: Well, isn't this touching? Ranamon! Let's work this out as a team to take that big guy out of the match.

Ranamon: Right, but once he's gone, then it's just down to the two us getting it on.

Kurama: Ladies, please...

Seadramon: Inumon. Let's have a talk...

Inumon: How can I even bother showing my face out there again? I've let them down!

Takato: The next chapter of the Pharaohmon series is entitled...

The Wong Family Reunion! Brimstone Goes All Out!

Yusuke: You surely don't want to miss this! If you miss it, you'll regret it.

Wow, it's been a while since I posted a chapter to this series. I hope to at least reach towards the semi-finals of the tournament by the end of the year. Before I go, I'd like to once again thank LazerWulf for providing me with the duel formats. You're such a big help! I also give credit to Youko and Belletiger for suggesting me some good drama scenes. I also thank everyone who has taken their time to read my hard work. I don't know when the next chapter of this will be up but I can assure that this fic won't be forgotten. Until then, peace!