YuYuGiDigiMoon: The Wrath of Pharaohmon

by Kanius

This is a crossover series putting the YuGiOh, Digimon Tamers, Digimon Frontier, Sailor Moon and Yu Yu Hakusho into an arc series. Update 09 13 05: Finally, the The Wrath of Pharaohmon is over! Come and read the finale! Our heroes return home!

42. Pharaohmon's One Hundred Percent Power!

Hey, my peeps! We're coming down to the final three chapters of this long-running series and it all comes to head with Pharaohmon showing us one hundred percent of his demonic power! Now, you just have to wonder if whether Gallantmon will give the demon the challenge he's been searching for all this time. With only two more chapters after this one, there's just no telling what happens. There's still Agunimon, Wolfmon, and even the Digital Priestess to consider! ;)

There's nothing else much to say but expect a lot of non-stop action and a hard fought duel between Yugi & Lance. This chapter marks the end of the duel tournament but the battle tournament will continue from here on and into the next chapter.

The fight between Duskmon and Loweemon in this chapter is greatly inspired after reading Ninetalesuk's same battle that took place in his Revival of Valmarmon series. So consider this just for you, Ninetales. ;)

Well, that's enough out of me. I say we get this show on the road! Grab yourself some popcorn and drinks and enjoy this chapter. :D

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One Hundred Percent Power: Pharaohmon's Ungodly Strength! The Finals Commence: Yugi Muto vs. Lance Canebrook!

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Phoenix Arena/Battle & Duel Platforms

The audiences were at buzz over the two match line-ups prepared for the semi-final rounds. The one match everyone was anticipating was the bout between Gallantmon and Pharaohmon, since all digimon in the arena recognized Gallantmon for his battle against the D-Reaper and Zhuqiaomon. This one on one encounter with Pharaohmon would be his ultimate test to date. If there was anyone who could give Pharaohmon a fight, the likely candidate would have to be Gallantmon.

Looking on from the entranceway were the Tamers & their partner digimon, the other Legendary Warriors, Omegamon, Seadramon and Athenamon. Takato's fists were clenched and his stomach practically was nervous for this match his own digimon partner was competing in. This wasn't against any opponent, but Pharaohmon himself! This was Gallantmon's opportunity to finally end this nightmare and save both worlds.

Meanwhile, the Legendary Warriors were hoping that both Agunimon and Wolfmon would fight evenly. The last thing they need is for both of them to go fire crazy and decide to waste the whole ring just to show off their powers. However, that wasn't exactly the case. Even Agunimon and Wolfmon kept a close eye on Gallantmon and Pharaohmon in Arena A.

"Ladies and gentlemen, the long wait is over! We have now reached the semi-finals of the Shadow Tournament! After nearly two days, we now remain with only four combatants! In Arena A, we have the crowd's favorite Gallantmon going up against the arenas most hated! Pharaohmon is looking in top form despite having to go through both Yusuke Urameshi and Inumon! In Arena B, we have two Legendary Warriors about to go head to head! The Warrior of Flame engages in combat against the Warrior of Light! But, you have to wonder? Will Pharaohmon finally receive the challenge he's been looking for? We've seen Gallantmon expose his Crimson Mode, which just might be the one power to rival Pharaohmon! Well, I think I've said enough as far as these matches are concerned! Let's not forget the finals of our duel tournament! Yugi Muto has just arrived outside the arena and duel against Lance Canebrook is about to begin! It's been declared by Lance himself that Yugi's Millennium Puzzle is at stake!"

"What? You mean Yugi actually agreed to Lance's terms?" Kazu exclaimed. "That guy must be confident that he can win!"

"I hope he knows what he's doing. I dueled against Lance myself and I barely survived that whole ordeal!" Kenta nodded. "Yugi is biting off more than he can chew if you ask me!"

"I don't think so. Yugi will somehow find a way to not only win the duel but save Lance. That's his objective," Henry replied. "Right, Takato?"

"You bet, Henry. There's no way Lance's shadow magic will deter Yugi's concentration. He's dueled against guys who relied on shadow tricks and come out on top. Then again, he's never faced anything like Pharaohmon's shadow magic. But, I am very confident Yugi will win."

"Let's hope so, goggle head. If he doesn't win, Lance will gain that puzzle and more power goes to Pharaohmon."

"What do you think, Himura?" Jeri asked the Tsubasa boy.

"He'll win. Yugi managed to beat me and Takato today. There's no stopping him."

"I agree, Himura," Yui spoke up. "Go, Yugi!"

"Gallantmon, be careful with this monster. You're going to have to fight seriously," Youkai Inumon muttered as he leaned against Sakuyamon. "Make sure he doesn't go anywhere over fifty percent of his power..."

"Inumon... Please, just rest..." Sakuyamon instructed the dark canine. "Gallantmon will take care of himself. He didn't make it this far by sheer luck."

"It's good to know that two of our boys made it this far," Junpei smiled proudly. "But I never thought we'd have both going against one another."

"This should be an interesting match. Don't you think, Kouichi?" Izumi asked the elder brother of Kouji.

"Yes, I'm pulling for Kouji of course since he's my brother, but I truthfully don't mind who wins. Takuya is a good friend just like all of you have become," Kouichi replied.

"Yep! This is going to be one good fight!" Tomoki agreed. "Give us something to remember by Takuya! Kouji!"

"Whoever wins, they'll face either Gallantmon or Pharaohmon. I'm really hoping its Gallantmon," Jaarin stated. "I really believe Pharaohmon is going to be biting off more than he can chew."

"Let's hope so, Jaarin," Omegamon replied. "Athenamon, your opinion?"

"Anything to see Pharaohmon finally get what he deserves is fine by me!" Athenamon replied to the Royal Knight. "My Amazon sisters were killed by this demon and I wish this tournament will at last seal his fate!"

"That's the spirit, Athenamon," Suzie approached the Amazon Queen. "That big meanie will finally get it!"

"By the way, where are Beelzebumon and Terriermon?" Lopmon asked.

"Um, did you really have to ask?" Felinismon pointed behind them.

As Lopmon spun around, she looked across to find Beelzebumon trying to catch Terriermon. The floppy-eared dog rabbit spun around above the demon to avoid getting caught.

"Missed me! Missed me! Now you got to kiss me, Beelzy!" Terriermon laughed out.

"Get down here, helicopter head!" Beelzebumon bellowed out. "Wait until I get my hand's on you!"

"Well, one thing is for sure... Beelzebumon doesn't know how to have fun," Calumon sighed.

"Everyone, keep it down! They're about to start!" Seadramon announced to the group.

As soon as he said that, the whole group became silent and watched the two rings with anticipation. Etemon stood at the center of the rings with one hand raised. Gallantmon stared down Pharaohmon with narrow eyes inside Arena A. In Arena B, Agunimon and Wolfmon both stepped into battle stances. While they were ready to go head to head to prove who the superior warrior was, they couldn't help but feel worried for Gallantmon. Pharaohmon was not going to be an easy opponent, even for the Royal Knight.

Takato and the others were waiting in anticipation for the bell to be rung. Lillymon waited for Etemon to give the hand signal. The whole arena remained silent and waited... And waited... And waited... Until, finally, Etemon dropped one hand down.

"There! As official of the Shadow Tournament, Etemon and I declare that these two matches to finally BEGIN!"

Once Lillymon officially declared the start, the four combatants were getting prepared and encircled each other. Gallantmon stopped and remained frozen while glaring down the demonic beast himself. Wolfmon jumped across the ring with his energy kitanas in his hands. Waiting for Wolfmon to make his first move, Agunimon summoned forth his flames through his fists.

"Well, Kouji, we've come this far. Now, we'll get to prove who is the better Legendary Warrior," Agunimon said with a smile.

"Yes and it will be me that defeats you, Agunimon!" Wolfmon declared as he twirled his energy kitanas. "However, I can't help but feel worried of what Pharaohmon will do in his bout with Gallantmon."

"Oh, don't worry about Gallantmon, Wolfmon. He can take care of himself. You just concentrate on me and our match."

"No, but after what we've seen him do to Anubimon. That guy hasn't even shown his full strength."

"You know you have a point," Agunimon had come to the realization. "I can't believe I had forgotten about that! Man, Gallantmon had better hope he can find a weakness against this guy!"

"If he doesn't, then it comes down to either me or Takuya to defeat Pharaohmon! Of course, there's still Lance to worry about and Yugi is dueling him. This just might not turn out as he had expected. We must somehow keep faith that we can overcome these odds," Wolfmon thought as he observed the combatants in Arena A.

"Hey! What are you doing standing there, Wolfmon? I say we get our match started now!" Agunimon called out and charged towards the Warrior of Light.

"Right! You better give me everything you've got, Agunimon!" Wolfmon shouted back with his energy kitanas in both hands.

With the two warriors preparing to engage in head to head combat, Gallantmon stood his ground and waited for Pharaohmon to implement his first move. The demonic force of nature remained silent and loomed over the Royal Knight with his massive size. Pharaohmon's eyes pierced directly down at Gallantmon and dimmed a purple, supernatural aura.

"Now, we have an old fashioned stare down between Pharaohmon and Gallantmon! Neither combatant has moved since the bell was rung earlier! I was hoping Gallantmon would attack him right off the bat, but he's frozen stiff! Has he finally lost his nerve?"

"No, I haven't lost my nerve," Gallantmon muttered and narrowed his eyes directly at Pharaohmon. "I'm ready whenever you are, you monster!"

"At last, Gallantmon, I have found a worthy opponent I can use my full strength against. Anubimon could have been a worthy opponent if he had joined me and Valmarmon, but alas he turned down power for friendship."

"He made the right choice if you ask me. He didn't want to become a monster like you! I will carry out Lord Anubimon's will and defeat you with all the power I have!" Gallantmon exclaimed.

"Oh, still believing and dribbling in that nonsense? When I defeat you, you'll come to realize that even Anubimon's training wasn't enough to stop me," Pharaohmon chuckled and started tensing his body up.

"With Anubimon's training, I can certainly keep up with the likes of you! You've just saw my Crimson Mode and you obviously know what I can do!"

"Is that so? Well, I would stop being so cocky if I were you! Now, allow me to show you real power!" Pharaohmon roared out as his body quickly started to increase in muscular mass.

The Royal Knight stepped back and felt the increasing power of Pharaohmon. A purple, demonic aura lined around the villain and spread across to emit a terrifying energy signal. Gallantmon remained firm and steered away from the demonic aura to avoid any contact with it. Pharaohmon's teeth clenched while growling and increasing the mass of his muscles. As the demon continued powering up, the ring surface under his feet was caving under and created a small crater in the process. The debris flew across the ring and scattered across the ground.

Everyone in the arena watched in awe as Pharaohmon continued powering up to what may be fifty percent of his power. However, it seemed to be just more than that. Even Omegamon and the more experienced digimon from the entranceway knew exactly what was coming up. Youkai Inumon felt tense while feeling out Pharaohmon's increase of his power.

"He's actually going to do it! This isn't even close to fifty percent!" Athenamon exclaimed.

"Yes! He's actually powering up over fifty percent!" Omegamon agreed with the Amazon Queen. "He realizes that he will finally receive a worthy challenge and wants to put his near full strength to the test!"

"So, how much is he going up to?" Kazu asked.

"Maybe sixty or seventy?" Guardromon wondered.

"Pi! Pi! Pi!" Marine Angemon chirped out.

"He's... He's actually going for his eighty percent strength! This is the same amount of strength he used to kill Anubimon!" Sakuyamon called out. "No! Gallantmon!"

"He'll be all right, Sakuyamon..." Youkai Inumon muttered. "With that Crimson Mode of his, he should be able to hold his ground well."

"Are you sure about that, mutt?" Dark Gabumon asked with curiosity.

"I'm very sure. I know what Pharaohmon was like when I fought him and he only used thirty percent to defeat me. Gallantmon in his current state and in his Crimson form are greater than even my top mega form. He'll give Pharaohmon a fight!"

"For our sake, let's hope your right, Inumon," Himura replied. "We have to defeat this monster to avenge Lord Anubimon!"

"Oooo, now this is going to get intense, right, Bokomon?" Neemon poked his head out of a corner behind the group.

"If you mean Pharaohmon increasing his strength, then yes it will get even more intense," Bokomon nodded in agreement. "Takuya, Kouji, If Gallantmon can't defeat this monster, then one of you two are our last hope. I just pray to Seraphimon that Gallantmon manages to overcome Pharaohmon."

"Gallantmon will win! Just you wait and see!" Takato assured everyone. "Pharaohmon can go eighty percent if he wants, but Gallantmon has a few aces up his sleeve! You can do it, Gallantmon!"

The entire arena watched in absolute awe at the combatants in Arena A. In a matter of seconds, half of the ring was shattered due to Pharaohmon's increase of his strength. Amongst the most notable of the audience members were the three Dra-Warriors: Flamedramon, Luzdramon and Panzerdramon.

"Man! Are you guys feeling this? This is whacked out! How would of thought Pharaohmon would have this much power?" exclaimed Flamedramon.

"I can believe it because we are definitely feeling it!" Luzdramon replied.

"To think there's a digimon like him here in this world!" Panzerdramon shouted. "I really doubt Pharaohmon is even native to this Digital World. He must have come from..."

"Where Panzerdramon?" Flamedramon called out.

However, it wasn't too long before the entire stadium shook and everyone turned their attention towards the dual rings. Inside Arena A, Gallantmon was standing away from one side and he glared down at the powered up Pharaohmon. Not only had the demon grown taller but the size of his muscles increased. He also sported a new demonic aura, which was a mix of purple and red. Pharaohmon's dimmed with pale white energy and his grin twisted into a serious demeanor.

Agunimon and Wolfmon stopped fighting to watch the whole power-up sequence from a closer view. Their mouths widened in apparent disbelief from the amount of power Pharaohmon was producing from just eighty percent!

"Um, wow... He sure got stronger, didn't he?" Agunimon chuckled nervously and looked to the Warrior of Light.

"You're kidding me? This is who Gallantmon is facing now? Even as we stand, we couldn't hope to fight this guy ourselves!" Wolfmon replied to the Warrior of Flame.

"Nah, I'm sure Gallantmon will hold his own, right? Um, yeah, sure..."

However, Gallantmon displayed no sign of fear and remained firm against his powered-up adversary.

"So, you've finally decided to go all the way?" Gallantmon muttered. "You're really one sneaky..."

"On the contrary, I'm ONLY using eighty percent! This is the same strength I used to kill Anubimon the other day, but I feel you are much stronger than that fool! No, you're better! That is why I chose to go all the way to eighty percent of my strength! Now, Gallantmon, don't you think its time to get our match underway?"

"Yes, because I'm sick of looking at ugly mug of yours!" Gallantmon retorted. "Bring me all you've got!"

"Very well, if that's what you want, then I'm more than happy to oblige!" Pharaohmon roared. "Prepare yourself, Gallantmon!"

"Pharaohmon has declared an attack on Gallantmon! Now, we're getting somewhere after a few moments of lagging! Pharaohmon is currently at eighty percent of his strength! Can Gallantmon hope to survive where Anubimon couldn't?"

"C'mon, Gallantmon, You can do it!" Takato called out to his partner. "Eighty percent or not, it doesn't matter! You'll take him!"

"Chumly is sure confident now, is he?" Kazu asked Kenta.

"Well, you'd be doing the same thing if it was Guardromon in there," Kenta shrugged.

"Hey! Don't get me involved in this!" Guardromon stepped away.

"Take it easy, my friend. They were just saying if you were in Gallantmon's place, Kazu would be rooting for you," Omegamon reminded the machine digimon. "Right, Kazu?"

"Um, yeah... Sure..."

"C'mon, Gallantmon, you've got to be serious. If you make one mistake, you might as well kiss your chances of victory good bye," Youkai Inumon muttered as he coughed out.

"Inumon, I thought I told you to rest," Sakuyamon held Youkai Inumon in place to help stand him up.

"You can do it, Gallantmon!" the children all cheered in unison for the Royal Knight.

Nodding to all of his friends, Gallantmon quickly put his game face on and glared down Pharaohmon.

"Amazing, I feel anxious but I'm not afraid! If I hadn't prepared for this tournament, I would surely be scared of facing this guy. But I've defeated some really good opponents to make it this far! In fact, I feel much better about facing this monster! HERE GOES NOTHING!"

Much to everyone's surprise, Gallantmon ran across the ring and dropped his lance. He only held his shield in place and his right fist. He came closer towards Pharaohmon and slammed it hard against the demon's chiseled chest. Pharaohmon retaliated with an uppercut into Gallantmon's chin. Both hits made direct contact against one another and caused sparks to flare up around them. The audiences were in intrigue awe at the amount of power they were emitting at the start.

It was Pharaohmon's uppercut that managed to overpower Gallantmon. The Royal Knight jumped back away from the demon entity and charged across again. He went for another right hook, which Pharaohmon himself dodged by phasing out. Suddenly, he felt a presence reappear behind him. Spinning around, Gallantmon looked up to find Pharaohmon with his right fist raised. He brought it down directly at Gallantmon. Gallantmon leaped away from the fist at the last second and watched from mid-air as Pharaohmon's fist didn't even make contact with the ring.

"NECRO FIST!"

With that said Pharaohmon unleashed a powerful demonic blast through his fist and watched as it plowed through across the ring. The extent of the attack also managed to plow across the outside of the ring and uprooted the ground itself. Pharaohmon spins around and waves his left arm to create an 'air wave'. That air wave flew across and ripped through the other side of the ring. This caused an array of flying debris from the devastated ring to slam hard against Gallantmon. He quickly put up his shield to protect himself against the flying debris. Gallantmon charged across and punched through incoming stone debris.

Suddenly, from out of another corner, Pharaohmon charged across at Gallantmon like a mad bull. The demon came with his right fist extended out and ready to take Gallantmon's head off. However, the Royal Knight did not back down and was poised to use his shield.

"No way! Not even Gallantmon's shield can hope to block Pharaohmon's straight on punch!" Athenamon exclaimed.

"Gallantmon! Move aside!" Sakuyamon called out.

"Stay tough, Gallantmon! You can take this!" Takato barked out to the Royal Knight.

"I sure hope he can take this! If he can, then he truly is a warrior!" Omegamon shouted.

Suddenly, before Gallantmon could even block, Pharaohmon paused and let his hand stop inches away from Gallantmon's face. A smirk crossed the demon's face.

"No, that would be too easy. Plus, this would be a disappointing end to a good fight," Pharaohmon snickered.

"Feh, what do you know about a good fight? You're a trickster," Gallantmon snorted. "Why don't you just get it over with?"

"Why should I?" Pharaohmon laughed as he stepped back and stretched his arms out. "I came here to fight you and see if you can provide me the ultimate challenge. Remember, I'm only taking Inumon's word for it."

"Wow! Did my eyes just deceive me? Pharaohmon had just stopped mid-punch to have a word with Gallantmon?" Lillymon glared towards the ring. "I just wish I knew what they were talking about..."

"Humph, those fools! Why don't they just stop dancing around each other and fight?" Wolfmon scoffed.

"But, that was a pretty impressive show they put on," Agunimon remarked.

"Bah! Gallantmon should get serious! If he gives Pharaohmon anymore time, that demon is simply going to increase his power! It's best if he simply got this over and done with!"

"Um, Wolfmon, in case you haven't noticed but..."

Before Wolfmon could say another word, Agunimon came charging across and shot across numerous fire blasts through his hand. The Warrior of Light dodged the fire blasts and managed to wave several off by spinning his energy kitanas. Agunimon jumped across and spun himself into a fire-like funnel.

"PYRO TORNDADO!"

The Warrior of Flame unleashed a fiery tornado down at Wolfmon in hopes of capturing him. Unfortunately for Agunimon, Wolfmon dodged by rolling to the side and let the funnel penetrate through the ring's surface.

"That was a close one!" Wolfmon exclaimed.

"Next time, I won't miss, buddy!" retorted Agunimon.

Looking on from the other side of the arena was Sailor Uranus and Sailor Neptune. They glared down at the ring where Pharaohmon was currently standing.

"Damn, now that is some raw power," Sailor Uranus observed the stare down. "That Gallantmon sure is hanging in there..."

"It's truly hard to believe there are monsters like Pharaohmon in another world. I thought everything was over when Chaos was defeated," Sailor Neptune replied. "But, I guess we were wrong. However, it is interesting that we've stumbled in a world where there are creatures who evolve and gain more strength. Pharaohmon is no exception."

"You're really looking hard into this, aren't you?"

"Oh? And you're not...?"

"Sort of, but then again, why am I not surprised? We obviously are not the only beings in the universe to wield great power."

"I just hope those girls get here soon. It's already been nearly two days. I wonder if they even found the sword by now..."

"I'm sure they have, Neptune, but for now... We can just sit back and wait. But I can assure you they will get here on time..."

As Sailor Neptune saw a confident grin cross her lover's face, she smiled back and nodded her head in reply. Uranus had never lied to Neptune in these sorts of circumstances and she wasn't planning to doubt her words either. They shifted their focus back towards Arena A.

"It's time, Gallantmon," Pharaohmon spoke up. "Time for you to show me what Anubimon taught you before he died in vain when he thought he could challenge me."

"Right," Gallantmon placed his Hazard shield directly in front of him. "I'll show you..."

"Are you two going to fight or what?" Etemon looked at both combatants. "Um, hello?"

"After displaying a fabulous start, both Gallantmon and Pharaohmon are standing off with an old fashioned stare down again! But now it looks like Gallantmon is focusing his energy through that shield, perhaps for his patented Shield of the Just! If he manages to hit this, even Pharaohmon might find himself in a world of hurt!"

"So, Anubimon didn't teach you anything? C'mon on! Show me what he taught you!" Pharaohmon demanded from the Royal Knight.

Suddenly, Gallantmon harnessed half of his energy directly into his shield. The shield itself started to emit a golden aura with the Hazard sign flaring up with a crimson glow. However, Gallantmon was doing this at his own pace and not pushing himself past his limits.

"C'mon, Gallantmon! Let him have it!" Felinismon exclaimed.

"Fry that steroid pumping freak!" Dark Gabumon called out.

As Gallantmon channeled even more energy, Pharaohmon immediately stepped out into a defensive stance and raised his arms in front of him. The energy of the Royal Knight was growing to the point where the shield was prepared to unleash a powerful blast.

"Humph, there's no chance of Gallantmon hitting me from this distance!" Pharaohmon said in thought.

Just as Gallantmon was prepared to fire, he quickly channeled his energy back into his body and cancelled off his attack. Instead, he charged across the ring and thought of a different battle strategy. He charged and then made a u-turn across the ring. This forced Pharaohmon to follow in pursuit of him.

"I've only got four good shots and I can't even miss one!" Gallantmon exclaimed in thought.

"So, you use your head in battle, Gallantmon. Good choice," Pharaohmon thought.

Then, without warning, Gallantmon attached his shield to his back and quickly slammed both fists into the demon's chest. Pharaohmon grunted against each blow and held his stance. Gallantmon continuously punched away like a boxer against Pharaohmon's tough hide, which forced Pharaohmon to retaliate. He threw down his left fist, which Gallantmon was able to dodge. The left fist destroyed a portion of the ring without even touching it. After that, Pharaohmon threw his right fist to unleash yet another demonic blast.

"NECRO FIST!"

The blast came hurtling across and out of the ring. It penetrated against the arena wall and shattered it with extreme force. The audiences gasped out in awe at the destructive blasts Pharaohmon was tossing out. If they weren't careful, they could end up on the receiving end of them.

Gallantmon landed behind Pharaohmon and quickly stood up. The demon spun around and executed a spinning back kick. The Royal Knight managed to duck under the kick and leaped up to land on Pharaohmon's outstretched leg. Gallantmon jumped up in front of Pharaohmon and slammed his left foot against his face. The demonic entity felt the force of the kick against his face but barely even staggered back. A grin crossed Pharaohmon's face as electric sparks exploded around the impact blow.

"Yes! Now let's kick things up a notch, Royal Knight!" Pharaohmon laughed out heartily.

Pharaohmon threw his right fist down in order to impale through Gallantmon, but the mega digimon managed to jump away in time. Once Pharaohmon's fist barely made contact with the floor, the whole ring was immediately shattered all at once. Etemon was blown back from the impact and sent flying across. Agunimon and Wolfmon stopped fighting as the force of the impact blew them across their ring. A bright red light shone across the arena and blinded nearly everyone in the stadium. Screams and cried reactions were abounding from the powerful force Pharaohmon demonstrated.

"OH CRAP!" Flamedramon exclaimed.

"You're right! A big oh crap indeed!" Luzdramon agreed as his eyes bulged out.

"GO FOR IT, GALLANTMON! NOW'S YOUR CHANCE!" Takato called out to his partner.

With a large collection of ring debris flying around the arena, Pharaohmon glide dup into the air with his wings flapping out. He looked across the heavy debris in search for his opponent. There was no sign of Gallantmon anywhere until... An afterimage of the Royal Knight himself speed blitzed through the rubble. Pharaohmon caught this precise swift movement by feeling out Gallantmon's presence. He spun around to find Gallantmon pointing his powered up shield in front of him. With only four words, Gallantmon unleashed a powerful blast that even Pharaohmon would have trouble dodging at close range.

"SHIELD OF THE JUST!"

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BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAM!

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Pharaohmon screamed out as the large blast came shooting out of Gallantmon's shield and slammed HARD against Pharaohmon. The villain struggled to hold the blast head-on and was sent hurtling across through the empty backside of the arena where there were no audiences sitting.

"BULLSEYE BABY!" Takato shouted out in pride.

"Now that's what I like to call a DIRECT hit!" Terriermon called out.

"I can't believe pineapple head got him good that time!" Beelzebumon shouted.

As the other Tamers and their allies watched on, the blast from Gallantmon expanded out and engulfed the demon. His screams echoed out across the arena and penetrated through the backside wall. The size of the blast penetrated through and left a smoldering hole through it and a pile of smoldering cinders. The powerful blast was sent directly outside the arena and across the near desolate desert landscape in the background. Suddenly, a small oasis was seen from the far corner. This is as far as the blast went and ripped across the small oasis to leave nothing more than a fiery area of devastation. The blast had already exploded and left Pharaohmon somehow for dead. The distance itself seemed as far as a quarter of a mile.

Back at the stadium, there was a hushed silence from everyone. This included the many supporters of Pharaohmon himself. Demon, Lady Devimon, Marine Devimon and Skull Satanmon were awe struck by the amount of energy Gallantmon had exerted. Looking on from another side of the arena, Machinedramon witnessed the events unfold.

"The normally vibrant crowds are looking on in stunned silence! I can even hear the Cricketmon chirping!" Lillymon announced with her eyes and mouth gaping open. "I don't think anyone saw that coming, including Pharaohmon! He's been blown right out of the stadium!"

"Yeah! Way to nail it to him, Gallantmon!" Takato cheered on for his partner.

"He did it! He actually did it!" Rika gasped out in shock.

"You bet he did it! Way to go, Gallantmon!" Jaarin whistled out for the Royal Knight.

"Man, did you see how far he flew right out of there? Gallantmon sure has taken his digi-vitamins!" Junpei barked out.

"HOME RUN!" Kazu and Kenta exclaimed in unison.

Etemon pulled himself right out of the debris and dusted himself off. He fell down face first on the ground and groaned with a bump growing out of his head. This forced Youkai Inumon to call out to him.

"Hey, monkey! You better get back up! In case you haven't noticed, Pharaohmon's been blown right out of the stadium! Now would be the perfect time to start counting!"

"Um, if you haven't noticed but where's the ring?" Himura corrected his digimon partner.

At the center of Arena A, there was nothing left of the ring but a pile of debris. No ring. Nothing. Agunimon and Wolfmon were looking on awe struck by the destructive mess created by both Pharaohmon and Gallantmon.

"Man! He sure gave Pharaohmon a farewell present! I told you he could do it!" Agunimon smiled to Wolfmon.

"I'm not sure if we should be celebrating. That seemed way too easy if you ask me," Wolfmon thought.

Gallantmon was standing over the debris with his direction glaring towards the area he had blasted Pharaohmon through.

"So, um. How do you get back in the ring?" Dark Gabumon wondered.

"From this point on, there will be NO boundaries," Seadramon stated promptly.

"The only rule is killed or be killed," Athenamon remarked.

The Spirit Detective team watched the whole event unfold from the stands on one side of the arena.

"Now, that's what I call power," Kurama stated as he watched from the corner of the arena.

"Yes and I'll bet he has more fire power where that came from," Hiei replied.

"And he just blew Pharaohmon right out of there!" Kuwabara exclaimed.

"Yusuke are you taking a look at this?" Koenma asked his appointed Spirit Detective. "You bad better take notes in case you ever have to face anyone that strong one day."

"Yeah..." Yusuke muttered as Keiko put an arm around him.

"There, there, it'll be all right, Yusuke," Keiko placed Yusuke's arm around the back of her neck.

"Incredible! This means Gallantmon has won! Earth is saved!" Botan cheered happily.

"I wouldn't celebrate that soon if I were you," the voice of Mizuno called out.

The Spirit Detectives turned around to find Mizuno approaching them. Her eyes were set directly to where Gallantmon was standing. A serious demeanor had crossed her face as she knew something that apparently the Spirit team was unaware. Was Pharaohmon truly defeated or was this simply the start of something much worse?

"What is it, Mizuno?" Kurama asked the female.

"I doubt this is over. Not by a long shot..." she replied.

"What? You really mean that?" Botan asked.

"Puu! Puu!" the blue spirit beast squeaked out with his tiny little arms moving about.

"I can't argue with you. That was much too easy if you ask me," Hiei spoke up.

"Oh man! If that's the case, then this isn't looking good!" Kuwabara stepped back. "I just hope Gallantmon can create another blast that big again!"

On the other side of the arena, even Sailor Uranus and Sailor Neptune were inclined to agree.

"Pharaohmon didn't even bother trying to block that attack," Sailor Uranus stated. "If he can come back unscathed from that, there's just no telling what other tricks that bastard has up his sleeve."

"Yes, and Gallantmon could have wasted all of his energy on that attack. I feel things aren't going to turn out good," Sailor Neptune sighed in regret.

Meanwhile, Gallantmon watched the massive hole his blast had created. He narrowed his eyes across to find a fiery trail in the background. Suddenly, he picked up on some energy activity.

-

Buried underneath a pile of debris, Pharaohmon was lying on the ground. His hand gripped against the large block on top of him and he shattered it with one grip of his right hand. The demon lifted himself off the ground and started marching onwards through the smoldering, fiery landscape. It was amazing that he even survived this! He came right out there with his body completely unscathed just as Sailor Uranus had predicted.

-

The Royal Knight paused and felt the demonic aura emitting from out of the background. He watched as a large shadowy figure was methodically marching across with a serious demeanor on his face. Gallantmon jumped back and gasped out in shock once Pharaohmon emerged right out of the hole. The audiences gasped in awe and horror at this sight. Takato couldn't believe it. Pharaohmon had no damage on his body and simply patted his chest.

"Is that all you've got, Gallantmon? I would have expected more from Anubimon!"

With that said Gallantmon's eyes widened and felt his digital heart freeze for a few moments. Chills were felt amongst everyone's spines. Pharaohmon had managed to come out with no damage and faked everyone out to believe that he had already been defeated.

"No way... This guy... He's invincible! That's the only explanation!" Guardromon shouted as he fell back.

"Man! Even Gallantmon couldn't bring this guy down!" Kazu stuttered as he cried out. "Um, well, Chumly. I hope there's a plan B!"

"That is simply scary," Izumi shuddered at the sight. "I thought he had Pharaohmon beat!"

"Yeah and that was one awesome blast, too!" Tomoki agreed.

Just then, Kouichi turned around corner and walked down into the back of the entranceway. Junpei turned and noticed the child leaving.

"Hey, where are you going, Kouichi?"

"I'll be back! I have some things to attend to!" Kouichi called back to his fellow warrior. "You tell everyone I'll be back!"

"Well, um... If you had to go use the restroom, it's right down the other corner on the left!" Junpei shouted to Kouichi. "Somehow, I doubt he could be using the bathroom right now. There has to be something else behind this."

"This is definitely not good," Omegamon stated while observing the scene.

"This is incredible! Pharaohmon has managed to survive Gallantmon's one shot attack and there's not a scratch on that body of his! This has to be the extent of his demonic body that saved him from becoming smoldering ashes!" Lillymon announced.

Suddenly, another burst of demonic aura covered Pharaohmon from head to toe. It was brightly colored with a mix of white, black, purple and dark red. He nodded his head and quickly waved off a portion of that demonic energy across. It swiped across and created a cut across Gallantmon's right cheek without the Royal Knight even noticing. Not just that but Gallantmon was pushed back by that same demonic aura. The knight's own energy shield was dissolved in the process.

"Ah, great! Just one flex of his muscles and then his own demonic aura dissolved my energy shield! I'm going to have to get into gear if I want to finish this! Crimson Mode is definitely the only option left to go!" Gallantmon thought in desperation.

"Meh, I was fool to think you'd rise to this occasion," Pharaohmon pointed directly at the Royal Knight. "I really wanted to see if you can prove that you can compete with me! Obviously, me standing here means that you've failed! So, there is no need for me to go to full power! I'll finish this as I am!"

"No way! I have yet to even show you my full power! Remember when I transformed into Crimson Mode?"

"Yes, so? Why didn't you simply just start out as your Crimson mode?"

"Because I wanted to be convinced if I can take you without it, but obviously you're right. I failed. But I will NOT fail by reaching my Crimson form!"

"What's that I hear? He's going to go for his Crimson form?" Youkai Inumon wondered as his ears perked up.

"That's his only bet I take it?" Dark Gabumon asked.

"You bet and he's going to beat Pharaohmon silly for when he does!" Terriermon chirped up. "In fact, I'll feel sorry for that poor idiot when Gallantmon cleans his clock!"

"Yeah, Takato, I'll have to agree that Gallantmon has a better chance if he calls upon the power of Grani and presents Pharaohmon a much better challenge!" Henry suggested to the goggle head.

"Henry's right, goggle head," Rika nodded. "Gallantmon Crimson Mode has enough power to match Pharaohmon at eighty percent of his power!"

"Go for it, Takato! We know Gallantmon can do it!" Himura gave his approval for the boy.

"We're right behind Gallantmon," Jeri nodded to her friend.

"All right then, guys! You've convinced me enough," Takato smiled to his friends. "Gallantmon, it's time to go for it!"

"Go for it...?" Gallantmon wondered until he finally came to the realization. "Ah, yeah! You got it, Takato! You hear that, Pharaohmon! You're in for a rude awakening!"

"Then quit wasting time and present me this Crimson Mode of yours!" Pharaohmon bellowed out.

"Am I hearing right? Will Gallantmon attempt to unleash his Crimson form? If so, then Pharaohmon is really asking for it! This is what I've wanted to see! Meanwhile, Agunimon and Wolfmon are watching on with awe! They've suddenly stopped fighting and are watching the two competitors! Yeah, it's obvious that Pharaohmon and Gallantmon are stealing the show!"

"Yeah, well you're not kidding! Are ya?" Agunimon scoffed. "But I have to agree."

"You got that right, but that doesn't mean we can stop. Now can we?" Wolfmon replied. "Though, I wonder if Crimson Mode will be enough. We still haven't even seen Pharaohmon reach his full power yet!"

"In the meantime, let's go check back and see how my colleague, Floramon, is doing with our duelists! Take it away, girlfriend!"

-

---

Outside the Phoenix Arena/North Sector

Meanwhile, just outside of the Phoenix Arena, the same large crowd who witnessed the Joey-Lance duel came to watch Yugi enter the dueling field. Floramon stood out in front of the camera with her back facing against both Lance and Yami Yugi. The two duelists were poised and ready to get their duel underway. Looking on from one corner of the dueling area were Joey, Tea, Tristan, Duke, Seto & Mokuba Kaiba and Mai. All, but Seto, were cheering on for Yugi and getting behind him in his upcoming duel.

"Thanks and one back to you, Lillymon! I love ya! Now, ladies and germs, we come to you live outside the arena! We're down to the finals of our Duel Tournament! Lance Canebrook has managed to defeat Kenta, Seto Kaiba and Joey Wheeler to make it this far! Can we talk about a great track record and there's just no stopping his Jirai Gumo! All three duelists have fallen of this deadly spider's might! But then there's Yugi Muto! He's managed to get prevail over Ryou Bakura, Himura Tsubasa and Takato Matsuda. Now he stands poised and ready to defeat Lance. But the question is, can Yugi figure out a strategy to beat Lance's spider and just what lengths will Lance go to attempt to win this match? Already, Lance has forced Yugi to put his puzzle on the line. According to what I've heard, this puzzle contains indescribable mystical powers and that's something Pharaohmon would want to get his grubby hands on! Now, without further ado, let's get this show on the road!"

Lance turned to face Yugi with a serious game face on and the King of Games returned the same glare. A grin twisted across Lance's face. The Pharaoh did not exchange any sort of grin or frown, but a serious demeanor. He wasn't in any mood to deal with anymore of Lance's mind games. This was it. He was here to defeat Lance and free his mind from Pharaohmon's control.

"Man, this is it, guys! Yug has made it this far and Lance has shown he can hang with the best of them!" Joey stated as he looked at both duelists. "But Yugi holds the advantage, experience-wise."

"But then again, he did defeat Kaiba," Tristan reminded the blonde-haired duelist.

"Gee, did you have to bring that up?" Seto rolled his eyes. "Lance was lucky to have made it this far. If I wasn't distracted, I would have crushed that little worm."

"Gee, I wonder what distracted him," Duke muttered sarcastically.

"Whatever the case, I know Yugi will pull through this! Lance doesn't know who he's dealing with! Yugi's beaten Pegasus and Marik up to now!" Tea replied.

"Still Lance is a pretty great duelist when he wants to be, but he always relies on shadow games to intimidate his opponents. I seriously doubt Yugi will be scared out of his wits," Joey said.

"That's for sure," Mai agreed.

"Look, guys! They're about to start!" Mokuba called to everyone and pointed towards the dueling area.

Lance stepped across and activated his duel disk. He simply grunted and faced Yugi with a confident grin.

"Ah, it was destiny that brought us here to this occasion. Hasn't it, Yugi Muto?" Lance snickered. "I've defeated two of the world's best duelists and a rookie to get here. Now I stand here ready to duel and triumph over the legendary King of Games! How does it feel to make it this far, dear Yugi?"

"Lance, I will put a stop to your madness and free your mind!" Yami Yugi called out directly at the possessed teen. "Pharaohmon has controlled you for far too long! Lance Canebrook, Kaiba has told me that your family does business with a man named Yamaki."

"Yeah? What of it?" Lance snorted.

"Your family also does business with Kaiba Corporation! With your influence, you have instructed Yamaki's team to create state of the art replicas of Kaiba's duel disks reserved for future use. In turn, these duel disks would be shipped to Kaiba in order to put them on the market."

"Is this true, Kaiba?" Tristan asked the CEO.

"That's for me to know and you not to stick your nose where it belongs," Kaiba retorted. "But, everything you hear is correct."

"Yeah and those state of arts Yamaki's team is helping construct is going to blow away the old duel disks that are currently out on the market," Mokuba stated.

"Wow, you have to tell me when they get released. I'd like me to have one of those bad boys!" Joey grinned sheepishly at the thought of newer duel disk models.

"I've also heard that your parents are currently in comas back home. Tell me, was it you who put them in those states? Answer me, Lance! Was it Pharaohmon who instructed you to take their souls and force them into comatose states?"

Upon hearing this, there was a stunned silence from amongst Yugi's friends. Even Floramon gasped in shock. How could anyone be as cruel to seal away two parents of a teen child? Obviously, they were just two more sacrifices for Pharaohmon's reemergence.

Lance laughed heartily, "Oh yeah! Those two idiots simply couldn't stop bugging me and I sapped away their souls! Now their new purpose has been fulfilled and they have become one with Lord Pharaohmon!"

"How could anyone be as cruel as to steal away their own loving family's souls and sacrifice them to such a horrible monster," Yami Yugi sighed in disbelief and disgust. "No matter. When I win this duel, I will free your mind of that demon!"

"And if I win this duel, you will hand your Millennium Puzzle to me and surrender your soul to eternal damnation!" Lance retorted angrily. "There's no chance of you ever defeating me, Yugi Muto!"

"We'll see, Lance! I didn't come this far just to lose and surrender my puzzle to a madman! Pharaohmon's evil ways end here!"

"You go, Yug! Teach that spoiled punk what the King of Games is all about!" Joey cheered on for his best friend.

"Let him have it!" Tea exclaimed.

"Duelists! Are you ready?" Floramon looked at both duelists and nodded in reply. "Seeing as you two boys are ready! I say... Let the Finals of the Duel Tournament... BEGIN!"

Before long, the official bell rang and the audiences in the background heavily started cheering out. Yugi and Lance had already set their duel disks while pulling out their first five cards. The final was set and both finalists would give this one their best performance. It was not just a duel but a contest to determine who would keep their soul and who would hold possession of the Millennium Puzzle. Will Lance win the puzzle and allow Pharaohmon to gain more power? Or will Yugi keep possession of his item and free Lance of the dark sorcerer's control? Everything shall be determined in this one duel and also decide the fate of the whole Shadow Tournament.

Life points:

Lance: 8000

Yugi: 8000

Before Yugi could utter a word, Lance stretched his arms out and laughed manically. The Pharaoh knew exactly what was coming up, considering he had done this to Joey, Kaiba and Kenta beforehand.

"Ha! Now, Yugi! It's time we play this under shadow game rules!" Lance laughed out.

Lance smiled around his surroundings and embraced the darkness that shrouded him. The King of Games simply stood his ground with a smile on his face. Lance gasped out as his dark shadow cloud was quickly dissipating.

"What! But- How is this possible!" exclaimed Lance. "Yugi! You're responsible for this, aren't you?"

Yugi remained silent, which further infuriated Lance.

"WHY! Why can't I send anyone to the Shadow Realm?" Lance shouted out angrily.

"Do you really want to know?" Yugi grinned with confidence. "It is because your so-called 'Shadow Games' were not Shadow Games to begin with!"

"What!"

"Your 'Shadow Games' are nothing more than Pharaohmon's influence on the digital world!"

"Well, they sure felt real!" Joey shouted out to remind them.

"Allow me to explain, mutt. The monsters created by my Duel Disk Technology are digital beings, and from what I've gathered, while we are in the Digital World we, too, are digital beings. So, in a sense, they're just as real as we are right now, and so are their attacks!" Kaiba explained.

"Oh, yeah! Now that I think about it, I could feel the attacks during my duels with Kazu and Mai," Joey recalled his previous duels. "They just didn't hurt as much as the ones in my duel with Lance."

"That was where Pharaohmon's power came in. Lance, and I'm assuming Nemesis did the same to Himura, used Pharaohmon's power to hypnotize his opponents into thinking that the attacks hurt more, and since, in the Digital World, what you think becomes real, the pain was truly amplified."

"What I think becomes real? So if I think about a big, juicy cheeseburger..."

Then, to Joey's surprise, a big, juicy cheeseburger appears in his hands. He didn't know what to think as the burger suddenly just appeared before him in an instant, but he wasn't about to complain. His eyes softened with joy and he giggled like a schoolgirl.

"Aw, yes! Come to poppa!" Joey took a bite out of the burger.

Tristan, Tea, Duke and Mai watch this scene with anime sweat drops.

"Only he would think of food at a time like this," Tristan sighed.

"Even so, I still should have been able to send your souls to the shadows!" Lance shouted directly at Yugi.

"Perhaps, but by creating fake shadow games, you have angered the spirits of the Duel Monsters, and they appeared to protect your 'victims'. Petite Angel protected Kenta in the form of Marine Angemon."

"My Red-Eyes appeared to save me, too," Joey pointed out.

"Even that blue-haired lady my brother saw shielded him from the shadows," Mokuba recalled that specific scene.

"Mokuba! I thought I told you not to tell ANYONE about that!" the elder Kaiba spat out.

"Oh, lighten up, Kaiba, will ya?" Tea sighed out of annoyance.

"A true Shadow Game only appears when a Millennium Item is involved, and the only time that happened was in my duel against Yami Bakura. But if you want a Shadow Game, I will be more than happy to oblige!"

Lance watched in horror as the golden mark of the Wedjat Eye appeared on Yami Yugi's forehead. "For all the hurt you've caused my friends, for all the pain Pharaohmon has inflicted, I say that you have trespassed on my soul and IT ENDS NOW!"

"DUEL!"

Yugi was the first to declare his move. He drew a card and set it on his duel disk.

"I'll start off my turn by setting one card facedown in defense mode! That'll end my turn!" Yugi declared.

"Oh? Is that all, King of Games? I'm rather disappointed, but I can't complain if that's all you have to offer," Lance said as he set two cards down on his duel disk. "I'll set two cards facedown! Next, I'll activate Ground Collapse! This allows me to select two Monster Card Zones on the field! Neither one of us can use those selected zones! Now, I'll select two of your zones!"

Yugi gasped as he witnessed two of his Monster Card Zones were randomly selected. He now knows there will be no way for him to use them.

"Next, it's time to summon my favorite monster and I'm sure you already know him by now, Yugi!" Lance laid down his favorite monster. "Behold, my Jirai Gumo!"

Appearing before Lance was his favorite and deadliest monster: the giant orange-black tarantula known as Jirai Gumo.

Jirai Gumo

2200/100/4 stars

"Now, my Jirai Gumo, attack his facedown defense card! ACID SLUDGE!"

Before the monster attacked, a holographic coin appeared in Lance's hand. He flipped it and called for heads. The coin landed and he actually called it right. The spider would proceed to attack and Lance's life points would not get deducted since he made the right call.

The giant spider regurgitated a poisonous slime out of its mouth and splattered it over the facedown defense card. The monster revealed out of the card was Gamma the Magnet Warrior, an obese pink warrior with wings, a magnet around his neck, and a blue S on his chest.

Gamma the Magnet Warrior

1500/1800/4 star

"So much for your Gamma, Yugi! Well, that'll end my turn for now that is," Lance chuckled manically.

"My move, Lance!" Yugi stated while adding a new card to his hand. "First, I'll activate Raigeki! That'll destroy all of your monsters on your side of the field!"

"Nice try, but you've just activated my trap cards!"

"Trap cards!"

"Behold my two trap cards! Ring of Destruction and Reinforcements!" Lance revealed his dual trap cards. "With Reinforcements, I increase Jirai Gumo's attack power to 2700 points, but he will come to good use in the end! He will be destroyed!"

"You're destroying your own monster!"

"Not yet! Now just sit back and watch!"

Jirai Gumo

ATK: 2700 (2200 + 500)

The Ring of Destruction appeared in the form of ring grenades around Jirai Gumo's neck. In a matter of seconds, the grenades all detonated simultaneously and DESTROYED the spider before Yugi's Raigeki even had a chance to wipe it off the field. Because of the spider's death, 2700 life points were deducted from both duelists.

Lance

Life Points: 5300 (8000-2700)

Yugi

Life Points: 5300 (8000-2700)

"What! You destroyed your own monster using your Ring of Destruction just to take off 2700 of our life points!"

"How observant, Yugi. It comes to show you that some sacrifices are worth the price!" Lance stated. "Have anything else to offer on your turn?"

"I do! I'll bring forth Oni-Tank T-34 in attack mode!" Yugi called out.

The monster revealed from out of the face-up holographic card was an armored tank with a red demonic face on the front.

Oni-Tank T-34

1400/1700/4 stars

"Now, Oni-Tank, attack Lance's life points directly!"

The tank aimed directly towards Lance and launched out a homing blast that exploded around his feet. Lance jumped back and nearly lost his balance from the fall. He may have been safe from the blast but his life points took damage.

Lance

Life Points: 3900 (5300-1400)

Much to his surprise, he did not feel any pain from each loss of his life points. He had forgotten that he was now playing under Yugi's own shadow game rules. He seethed directly at the King of Games.

"That'll be the end of my turn, Lance! Make your move if you have anything worthy to protect your life points! Otherwise, I'd suggest surrender now!"

"Me surrender to you? Not when I'm going to win your puzzle!" Lance laughed out while adding a card to his hand. "I'm going to summon a monster to the field first! Come forth my Bistro Butcher!"

The monster that Lance revealed on the field was a blue goblin wearing a chef's hat with a hook for one hand and a giant butcher knife in the other. This was Lance's gruesome Bistro Butcher and he was ready to cut Yugi down to size.

Bistro Butcher

1800/1000/4 star

"Now, my Bistro Butcher, cut his tank down to size!" Lance declared for his first attack on this specific turn.

The goblin charged across, leapt onto the tank and sliced it down in half with his butcher knife with one stroke. The tank blew a part and inflicted some damage directly on Yugi's life points. Needless to say, the King of Games wasn't pleased with the loss of his tank.

Yugi

Life Points: 4900 (5300-400)

"In case you've forgotten, since my Bistro attacked you, you can draw two card into your hand. Not like really matters because I doubt you'll have anything worthwhile to add."

"You'll regret those words, Lance. It will come back to haunt you!"

"Meh, whatever, I end my turn. Otherwise, I don't really care what you say."

"Oh you will once I activate one of the cards I've just drawn to my hand! It's time to put this specific card to good use! I activate Monster Reborn! I can select any monster from the graveyard and the monster I've chosen is my... Gamma the Magnet Warrior!"

"Oh, that one?"

Yugi immediately special summons his Gamma the Magnet Warrior. However, he wasn't planning to use him for long.

"Next, I'll sacrifice my magnet warrior to bring forth a far superior monster! Behold, the Summoned Skull!"

"Oh no! I didn't take into account you'd sacrifice your magnet warrior!"

"Well, looks like I've just proved you wrong, Lance!"

Appearing before Yugi was large skull-faced demon. Its horns and claws crackled with electricity.

Summoned Skull

2500/1200/6 stars

"Now, Summoned Skull, destroy his Bistro Butcher! Take him out with your lightning attack!"

The demon screeched out and launched an electrical blast directly at the butcher goblin. The imp screamed out and exploded into data fragments. As a result, Lance watched pitifully as more life points were deducted.

Lance

Life Points: 3200 (3900-700)

"I hope my attacks are making you wake up, Lance. End this madness now!"

"What? Me end my madness? Not as long as I'm still standing and with life points intact! I won't rest until your puzzle is mine!"

"Typical, in the end, your own arrogance will be your own undoing," Yugi signed. "That'll be the end of my turn."

"Good, because the fun is just getting started!" Lance laughed hysterically, similar to the Joker's laugh. "I'll summon forth my Gemini Elf in attack mode!"

The possessed teen summoned forth two female elves out of one monster card. These two lady elves are known to attack and defend together.

Gemini Elf

1900/900/4 star

"Ha, but don't think I'll let my elves attack right away!I'll equip them with the card known as Megamorph first! Since my life points are lower than yours, the original attack power of the monster equipped with this card is doubled! We'll just see the results in a few moments."

Then, Yugi watched as Gemini Elf's attack power was doubled immediately before he knew it.

Gemini Elf

ATK: 3800 (1900x2)

"Now, my Gemini Elf, attack his Summoned Skull!" Lance declared his attack on Yugi's demon.

The twin elves launched themselves across and delivered a twin kick onto the skull demon's chest. The monster grunted from the blow and collapsed onto the ground. It exploded into data and inflicted damage upon Yugi's life points in the process.

Yugi

Life Points: 3600 (4900-1300)

"Well, that just proves that you can't always rely on the largest monsters to win the game! My elves are stronger than most of your beloved monsters. It's such a shame you can't use your God Cards!"

"Lance, I won't even need the God Cards to defeat you! It'll be my skill that triumphs over your insanity!"

"Ha, talk all you want, but it won't save you in the end!" Lance laughed. "That'll be the end of my turn."

Yugi added a new card into his hand and laid down the card, "All I offer on this turn is setting one card facedown in defense mode!"

"Pfft, just one facedown card? Like I said, it's your call, but don't think you can rely on just one card to save you in the end," Lance shrugged as he added a new card to his hand. "Now, I'll summon Mad Sword Beast in attack mode!"

Lance laid out a face-up card to reveal a triceratops with a horn blade. It roared out hungrily and glared directly towards Yugi's side field, especially with his sights set on the facedown card.

Mad Sword Beast

1400/1200/4 stars

"Now, my Mad Sword Beast, stomp all over his facedown card!" Lance declared an attack on Yugi's card.

The beast roared and charged across while stomping its front feet on the facedown card. The card shattered to reveal a brown furball with blue eyes and tiny, green claws. It was Kuriboh! It squeaked out before fading away.

Kuriboh

300/200/1 star

"If you thought your life points were safe, think again! It didn't matter if your Kuriboh was in defense mode! When Mad Sword Beast attacks with an attack power higher than your monster's defense, it inflicts damage to your life points! Too bad for you, King of Games! Looks like you weren't up to defending yourself against my beast's attack!"

Yugi

Life Points: 2400 (3600-1200)

"Ah, but the fun is not through! Now, my Gemini Elves! Attack Yugi's life points directly!" Lance declared an attack on the Pharaoh.

Gemini Elf

ATK: 950 (1900/2)

Since Yugi's life points were lower, the original attack power of the Gemini Elf's was halved. Yugi gasped out as the elves jumped across to deliver a double boot onto his chest. This forced Yugi back across and took a HEAVY toll on his life points!

Yugi

Life Points: 1450 (2400-950)

"Man, Yugi's not doing too well at the moment," Duke observed the duel.

"He'll come out of this one guys! Lance doesn't have those shadow games to rely on anymore!" Joey stated.

"Yep, I agree, Joey," Tea nodded.

"Just take a look, Lance himself has been struggling somewhat. It'll be a matter of time before Yugi takes this match back. Just you wait and see," Joey continued on.

"Yes, because I won't allow anyone else to defeat Yugi. That honor is reserved only for me," Kaiba muttered. "Yugi, if you lose this duel, I'll never forgive you..."

"Oh, Seto, you're still obsessed in beating Yugi, Aren't you? I just wonder when you'll ever get over it," Mokuba thought. "Yugi's not looking good now, but I have a feeling Lance is biting off more than he can chew. Even Seto underestimated Yugi and lost. Lance has no idea who he is dueling with."

"Well, as you can see, Lance now has the advantage over Yugi! Can Lance capitalize on this momentum, or will Yugi somehow find a method to Lance's madness? Yugi's puzzle is at stake, which is a prize Pharaohmon has had his sights on! But, Lillymon, you've got to tell me how everything is going with the battle matches now. I'm dying to know!"

"It's not over, Lance. If anything, you're going to wake up back to reality sooner than you think!" Yugi said through the pharaoh's thoughts. "We clearly can regain the advantage!"

-

---

Ground Level Hallways of Phoenix Arena

As he walked down the hallway around the ground level section, Loweemon was suited up for battle and a final confrontation with his darker counterpart: Duskmon. He sensed his surroundings in search for the false Warrior of Darkness. He turned and noticed a large conference room. Fortunately, it was empty of any arena staff but Loweemon could sense the presence of two dark beings. He opened the door and walked inside. Much to his dismay, he found both Duskmon and Yami Bakura waiting for him. Loweemon stopped and glared directly at Duskmon, who was very glad to find him again.

Yami Bakura was sitting in a chair with his hands clasped together. A malevolent grin crossed Bakura's face and he sat up from his chair.

"Well, well, how fortunate for you to come Loweemon," Yami Bakura snickered. "We were expecting you."

"So you two are still around? No wonder I was able to sense your presence," Loweemon stared at both of the villains. "Especially you, Duskmon."

"We are one, Kouichi. Learn to accept me!"

"Never, Duskmon, you're not the true Warrior of Darkness. There is only but one. That is I, Loweemon!"

"Keep deluding yourself, Kouichi," Duskmon retorted and popped his neck.

"This should be rather amusing," Yami Bakura chuckled. "I'll leave you two alone if you wish, because I have more important matters to attend to. I have a duel to watch!"

"Go and do as you wish. All I care is Kouichi," Duskmon snorted.

"As you wish, Duskmon, and have yourself a good fight!" Yami Bakura snickered as his Millennium Ring shot out a bright golden glow.

Loweemon shielded his eyes from the expanding golden aura and watched as Yami Bakura disappeared from the room. The only other individual in the room was Duskmon, who unsheathed his crimson blades through his hands. His eyes dimmed a bright, red glow and glared down at Loweemon with glee. It was time: The False Warrior of Darkness versus the True Warrior of Darkness.

"Ah, Loweemon, ready to die and surrender Kouichi to me?" Duskmon chuckled under his breath.

The True Warrior of Darkness pulled his battle staff from out of his back and twirled it about.

"I was born ready, creature of darkness!"

"Creature of darkness? Yeah, that suites me just fine," Duskmon snickered and hollered out.

Before Loweemon had any chance of attacking, Duskmon leaped on the table and charged across with his crimson swords ready to engage in battle. Duskmon came leaping off the table and came down with his blades. Loweemon was quick to block with his staff and pushed Duskmon away. The False Warrior of Darkness slammed against the wall and came charging across like a mad bull. He swiped across with his blades, but Loweemon put up his staff to block the incoming attack.

Duskmon delivered a kick across Loweemon's chest to send him against the wall. The False Warrior raised his right arm and came slashing down across the wall. One swipe of the blade tore right through the wall but he did not manage to catch Loweemon. He quickly spun around and was met with a direct blow from Loweemon's staff. This managed to send Duskmon flying through the broken down wall and through another conference room. Duskmon landed back first onto a table. Seizing the opportunity, Loweemon leaped across and went to impale his staff through Duskmon's torso. The False Warrior rolled away before the staff penetrated through the table. Duskmon managed to catch his breath for a few seconds before engaging into another weapon to weapon battle with Loweemon. The twin blades clashed against the staff. Thus far, Loweemon was putting up quite a resistance against Duskmon. However, that momentum was cut short as Duskmon's eyes dimmed a crimson glow and shot out tri-beams at Loweemon's chest.

"DEADLY GAZE!"

This managed to throw Loweemon off his guard and paralyzed him for a moment. This allowed Duskmon to seize the opportunity and raise his left crimson blade up over his head and slice down at Loweemon.

"Say hello to oblivion, Kouichi!" Duskmon laughed heartily. "NOW BECOME ONE WITH ME!"

Before Duskmon's blade came down, a bright aura dimmed around Loweemon. This threw Duskmon off his game and slightly blinded him momentarily. Loweemon sat up with his body covered by a brown aura. Feeling reenergized, Loweemon looked down at his body and somehow felt rejuvenated. He couldn't understand why.

"What just happened to me?" Loweemon wondered.

"ARGH! Kouichi, what was that!" Duskmon demanded as he attempted to regain his vision.

"I... I don't know but I'm glad that managed to save," Loweemon replied. "Perhaps, it had something to do with my fused spirit. If I have any hopes of defeating Duskmon, I'll have to become Reichmon. There's no other way."

"So, you're going to attempt to become Reichmon? I won't allow that to happen, Kouichi! I will see to it that you will become one with me again!" Duskmon roared and regained his vision. "But before I do, I must eliminate Loweemon to fulfill my destiny!"

Charging across with his crimson blades, Duskmon quickly reappeared in front of Loweemon and slammed against him. He had enough force to plow him through another wall. The next room they found themselves in was a training room. Duskmon lifted Loweemon off the ground and threw him across the room. The False Warrior flew across and slashed across him at different angles with his blades. Fortunately, Loweemon's strong armor was good enough to protect him against the blades. Duskmon roared out and delivered a head butt into Loweemon's sternum. This had enough impact to knock the wind right out of the True Warrior of Darkness. Loweemon was sent crashing through a table and onto a chair

"There you can have a seat, Loweemon!" Duskmon joked cruelly as he advanced towards the fallen Loweemon. "Look at you! You don't deserve the title as 'Warrior of Darkness', because you are weaker than I am! If I hadn't been one with you, I would have killed your brother when I had the chance!"

"You'll never... go near my brother, Duskmon... Do you hear me?" Loweemon growled before coughing out.

"Oh, well isn't that a shame? I've always intended to go after Kouji, but it was you that held me back! Well, before we become one, I will force you to watch as I kill your brother before your very eyes! How does that grab you, Kouichi?"

Upon hearing this, Loweemon slowly got up from the ground and struggled to stand up. A defiant glare crossed the True Warrior of Darkness' face. This was something that Duskmon did not want to see form his adversary. It greatly angered him. Duskmon zipped across for another attack, but Loweemon was quick to slide evolve before Duskmon could even hit him.

"Loweemon SLIDE EVOLUTION! Kaiser Leomon!"

As Duskmon's blades sliced across the air, he did not make any contact with Loweemon. He twirled around to be taken down by Kaiser Leomon. The Darkness Beast laid on top of Duskmon and bit him across his left arm with his mouth. The False Warrior howled out in pain and attempted to remove Kaiser Leomon's grip on him.

"Let go! Kouichi! LET GO!" Duskmon roared out angrily.

Kaiser Leomon leaped off Duskmon with his mouth still clenched on the warrior's arm. With one mighty swing, he threw Duskmon up into mid-air. However, Duskmon was fortunate to save himself by immediately alternating his evolved form.

"Duskmon SLIDE EVOLUTION! Velgemon!"

Immediately evolving into his B-Hybrid, Velgemon stopped in mid-air and flapped his feathery, demonic wings. He glared down at Kaiser Leomon and swooped down to attack. Kaiser Leomon was waiting right for Velgemon and opened his mouth to release a massive dark sphere.

"EBONY BLAST!"

The diving Velgemon shielded himself against the blast using his wings, but the attack still managed to push him back slightly. Velgemon screeched out and retaliated with a crimson beam straight from out of the red 'orb' on his forehead.

"DARK VORTEX!"

The crimson beam aimed directly for Kaiser Leomon, who dodged the beam by jumping back. Velgemon fired more shots and watched in glee as Kaiser Leomon was forced to dodge the attacks. This gave Velgemon enough time to pierce his right wing down on the ground around Kaiser Leomon. Quickly constructing a circle around Kaiser Leomon, a dome structure formed over the where Kaiser Leomon was standing.

"DARK OBLITERATION!"

As soon as he called out his attack, a white flash completely engulfed the inside of the dome and caught Kaiser Leomon within it. The True Warrior of Darkness howled out in pain and was immediately de-digivolved back into Kouichi. The boy fell to his knees and couldn't believe what had just happened. He had lost the battle and now would become Velgemon's victim. He looked up as Velgemon descended. The B-Hybrid used his 'Slide Evolution' sequence to turn back into Duskmon. The defeated Kouichi let out a sigh and lowered his head. This managed to make Duskmon chuckle gleefully.

"At long last, Kouichi, I have proven that I am indeed the true Warrior of Darkness! Now, relieve yourself of this misery and become one with me."

"..."

"Hum, so you're as stubborn as always. Very well, I'll make us merge together by force!"

"No..."

"No...? Why is that, Kouichi? Face the facts! You've LOST! You can never hope to defeat as you are now!" Duskmon laughed triumphantly.

"That's because you forgot about my Fusion Evolution!" Kouichi slowly got back to his feet. "You hear...? I guess you forgot all about that dream last night!"

"That was only a dream, Kouichi! You only wished for your Fusion Evolution in a dream world! You can't have that power here in reality!"

"Oh, no? Well, what do you call this?" Kouichi held up his D-Scanner to reveal the two Spirits of Darkness. "EXECUTE! FUSION EVOLUTION!"

Once Kouichi called upon this power, his body became engulfed by a flow of data. His clothes were stripped and becoming merged with the two spirits. Duskmon shielded his eyes from the bright purple light and gasped out in shock. He couldn't believe it! Kouichi has managed to make his Fusion Evolution work successfully even outside the dream world!

"No, how could this be? Bakura assured me that Fusion Evolution was merely a fluke reserved for the dream world! There's no way Kouichi can have that power outside that dream dimension. Unless..." Duskmon gasped as he came into the realization and roared out angrily. "That fool tricked me! That no good bastard LIED to me! He only wanted me to fight Kouichi so I would be out of his way!"

"You were stupid enough to believe him, Duskmon," the voice of Kouichi called out once the evolution had completed.

Standing in place of Kouichi was the same A-Hybrid from the dream dimension. The same brown-armored warrior with the face of Loweemon and the chest armor of Kaiser Leomon. He wielded a mighty staff and stepped out into a battle stance.

"REICHMON!"

"Curse you... CURSE YOU! Bakura, you will not get away with this you little vermin!" Duskmon roared out.

"Well, you'll have to get past me first!" Reichmon called out. "Let's do this, Duskmon! You and me! The final chapter between the Warriors of Darkness! Only one shall be rightfully given that title!"

"So, you still intend to go through with this? I've beaten you down earlier and I'll continue where I left off!"

"Let's do this, Duskmon!" Reichmon twirled his staff around.

The two Warriors of Darkness faced off against each other. This time it would be the final chapter to their long war. The Corrupted Warrior of Darkness, Duskmon, and the True Warrior of Darkness, Reichmon. Only one would walk out with victory and preservation over the Warrior of Darkness title name.

-

---

Phoenix Arena/Battle and Duel Platforms

Back at the stadium, the two semi-final matches are still underway but now the crowds were silent. It was now a hushed silence but rather a shocked silence. It was just a few moments ago where Pharaohmon had emerged from out of the rubble after Gallantmon's attack and came out completely unscathed. The Tamers and their allies couldn't believe it. Even Agunimon and Wolfmon were stunned by these turn of events.

However, after hearing the cries of the children, Gallantmon knew exactly what he had to do. It was time. He turned towards Pharaohmon with a confident glare.

"Well, I suppose playtime is over, isn't it?" Gallantmon shrugged as he dropped his shield.

This managed to catch Pharaohmon's undivided attention and soon everyone in the audience wondered what the Royal Knight had in store for everyone.

"Hey, why did he just drop his shield? He's going to need it if you ask me!" Agunimon exclaimed.

"You don't get do you, Agunimon? He's going for it," Wolfmon replied.

"For what exactly...?" Agunimon asked the Warrior of Light.

"Just watch..."

"Wow, so he's really going for it," Omegamon stated. "We've just seen Gallantmon execute his Crimson form against Sakuyamon."

"Yes and this time he will be using the full extent of Grani's power. I just hope that it'll be enough," Henry said.

"Well, one thing's for sure, Pharaohmon is going to be hurting when Gallantmon gets through with him," Kenta replied.

"Go for it, Gallantmon!" Takato called out to his partner.

Nodding his head in reply, Gallantmon raised his arms above his head and brought them down to his waist. He summoned forth the power of Grani and became basked by a Crimson light.

"MODE CHANGE!"

Then, the Crimson light exploded and expanded into a barrier of sorts. Its majestic glow engulfed Gallantmon completely and rejuvenated him with an indescribable amount of energy. His body became encased with Crimson armor plates across his body. Pharaohmon witnessed the whole transformation take place. The newly evolved Gallantmon stepped out of the Crimson column of light and glared directly towards the demonic sorcerer.

"GALANTMON CRIMSON MODE!"

"Awesome and now Gallantmon has once again reached his Crimson form! This is just exactly what the doctor ordered if you ask me!" Lillymon exclaimed. "Pharaohmon's staring down his newly digivolved adversary and is grinning! He's actually grinning! It looks as though Pharaohmon had found the opponent he was searching for!"

"Did you just see that, Uranus?" Sailor Neptune asked her partner.

"Yeah... What incredible power! He just might give Pharaohmon the fight he's been looking for... I'm looking forward to this..."

Even the Spirit Detectives shared the same sentiments. Yusuke looked down towards Gallantmon and smiled convincingly.

"Can you guys feel that power from Gallantmon? He feels a lot stronger than before!" Kuwabara exclaimed.

"Alas, even Pharaohmon is quite pleased with this. He just might have found the opponent he's been seeking to test his full strength," Mizuno replied while observing the standoff.

"Now we'll get to see whether Gallantmon will be worth his metle," Hiei stated.

"We must also consider that Yusuke's spirit energy is still inside Pharaohmon but I have yet to know when it will detonate inside the monster. It's been quite a while. Perhaps in Pharaohmon's case and considering the size of his body, the spirit energy build up will take a rather longer process to build up into a detonation energy bomb. Gallantmon must be cautious as how he attacks Pharaohmon or he'll risk destroying himself," Kurama thought.

Meanwhile, the Tamers and the group were watching on with new hope. Even the Legendary Warriors were hopeful for this new ascension of power Gallantmon has performed.

"Wow, isn't that just awesome, Tomoki?" Junpei asked.

"Yeah! Way to go, Gallantmon! I wish I had him as a partner," Tomoki smiled.

"That's probably one of the most beautiful armors I've ever seen," Izumi was astonished by the crimson armor of Gallantmon. "Damn, now that's power!"

"He's sure going to give Pharaohmon a beating that's for sure!" Jaarin cried out.

"Well, you guys are pretty excited, aren't you?" Rika smirked. "Just wait until he shows you what he can really do."

"That's for sure," Ryo agreed.

"Now that's awesome, right, Himura?" Yui asked her elder brother. "I wonder if you can do that, Dark Gabumon."

"Ha, I wish!" the dark digimon laughed. "No, really, I do wish..."

"In any case, Gallantmon has the power to match or even surpass Pharaohmon now," Himura replied.

"That's right, Pharaohmon. I know deep down you're scared. If that had been me in there with a new mode, I would have beaten you down for sure!" Youkai Inumon thought.

"Good luck, Gallantmon," Sakuyamon whispered.

"All right, Gallantmon! This is it! It's show time!" Takato called out to his partner. "Show this creep that you aren't one to be messed with!"

Simply intrigued by Gallantmon Crimson Mode, Pharaohmon simply stood in a battle stance and snorted.

"Well, this is your full power, Gallantmon? I have to say that I'm impressed," the demonic force of nature snickered. "But, even with all of that power, you will still fail. I will see to that! This will be your final stand, Gallantmon!"

Upon hearing this, Gallantmon flew across at Pharaohmon. As the demon attempted to attack head on, the Crimson knight phased out of this sight. Pharaohmon didn't even get a chance to detect his adversary's movement and looked around the ring. Before he could react, he felt an overwhelming force slam against his face. The impact of the blow caused a dent into his face and caused him to stagger back.

"I didn't even see him move!" exclaimed Athenamon. "Incredible! Now he has increased his speed along with his strength!"

"And he just left Pharaohmon one big dent on his face! He's definitely much stronger now!" Guardromon pointed out.

"Go, Gallantmon! Now give him the right and the left!" Kazu and Kenta called out.

"Yes! Just keep staying on him, Gallantmon!" Izumi exclaimed.

Unleashing a loud battle cry, Gallantmon walloped Pharaohmon all around his body and left many dent marks. The demon staggered back against these blows and FELT pain for the first time since the start of the tournament. His face contorted and twisted after each demolishing blow. Pharaohmon fell back with his eyes widened. Gallantmon flew up above the fallen demon and summoned forth his lance. He threw it down and watched it pierce through Pharaohmon's chest. Pharaohmon grunted from the strike and attempted to rip it out. However, this gave Gallantmon enough time to summon a bolt of energy. He shot it out across and watched it slam directly against Pharaohmon's body.

"FINAL JUSTICE!"

The bolt formed into the beam of an energy beam and slammed HARD against Pharaohmon. There were loud cries of the demon feeling the effects of the attack. This allowed Gallantmon an opportunity to swoop down and unleash an array of rapid fists down at Pharaohmon. He took each blow to the face directly. It seemed like at least thirty seconds with Gallantmon walloping Pharaohmon's face. Bruises, cuts and marks formed across the demon's face. Then, suddenly, Pharaohmon's neck twisted to the side and there was a gazed look in his eyes. This caused Gallantmon to stop and leap off Pharaohmon's fallen form.

"Hey! What's going on? Why did he stop attacking?" Lopmon wondered.

"Hey! Don't just stand there, Gallantmon! Get back in there and leave until he's black & blue!" Terriermon hollered out.

"Damn it, what are you up to, pineapple head?" Beelzebumon wondered. "This is no time to be playing games."

"No! He should have stayed on top of him!" Omegamon called out. "Takato, what is going on here?"

"I... I don't now. I'm clueless myself," Takato showed concern for the situation. "Why did you stop, Gallantmon? Did something just spook you just now?"

As Gallantmon stepped back, he watched as Pharaohmon suddenly sat up zombie style. The audiences were awe struck by the demon's speedy recovery from all of those head-on attack blows. The demon stood straight up with all of the dents over his body. Then, in an instant, they disappeared and the body itself became fully healed. Gallantmon took a step back and feared for the worst to come.

"My Goddramon...! Can you believe this! Pharaohmon has taken all of those blows head on and there's not a scratch on him anymore! Those blows and marks were just healed! Now that's what I call a spontaneous recovery! Just how is Gallantmon going to stop this?" Lillymon announced for everyone to hear.

"...Oh man, this isn't good, Chumly! What now?" Kazu gulped.

"He just healed from all Gallantmon's blows! Just how is he going to stop Pharaohmon now?" Himura wondered.

"No, he has to have a weakness! C'mon, Gallantmon, you can't let this guy win..." Youkai Inumon muttered. "Lord Anubimon is counting on you..."

Agunimon couldn't believe his eyes and stepped back. After witnessing all those blows Gallantmon had viciously delivered, Pharaohmon was back on his feet and ready for more. A grimaced look crossed Wolfmon's face.

"Um, so I guess we can forget about fighting each other? There's no way in hell I can concentrate on our fight as long as that creep is still in there!" Agunimon exclaimed.

"He recovered from all those blows and back on his feet!" Wolfmon growled. "You're right. I can't even concentrate on fighting anymore now that Pharaohmon just got up from Gallantmon's attacks. I really thought Crimson Mode had him!"

"Yeah, so did I... Apparently, it's not enough," gulped Agunimon.

"This isn't good. If Gallantmon can't stop him, then there's only one that can. The Digital Priestess, but she's nowhere to be seen. What is taking those boys? They should be back with those friends of theirs by now..."

-

---

Outside the other side of the Phoenix Arena/South Sector

Meanwhile, just a few yards from the distance of the arena, the mighty Imperialdramon Fighter Mode was catching a glimpse of the massive stadium. He flew across and flapped his majestic wings to gain further ahead with what time he had left. The Sailor Senshi and their allies looked on far ahead to get a glimpse of the Phoenix Arena. At long last, they had finally arrived at their destination. After a long journey across the desolate desert, the Phoenixmon Mountain Range, the jungle and the Hohou Temple, the heroes would at last confront their greatest enemy and hope to seal him away with their trump card: Cammy the Digital Priestess.

"We have arrived at our destination, everyone!" Imperialdramon announced to the group. "Phoenix Arena, here we are!"

"Yes! Finally, we've made it!" Sailor Venus cheered excitedly. "Woo-hoo! Yeah!"

"She sure excited, isn't she?" Espritdramon snickered.

"Well, shouldn't we be? We didn't go all the way through that trouble just to waste time, right?" Kyodaidramon replied to his Dra-Warrior comrade. "Besides, we have our fellow Dra-Warriors waiting in there for us."

"I think we're all just happy to get here as soon as possible," Sailor Pluto nodded in agreement.

"Yes and all we have to do is get Cammy to use the sword," Sailor Jupiter stated. "Just one swing and it's adios, Pharaohmon!"

"I'm not so sure if it's going to be that simple, everyone. Pharaohmon's power has grown power since the last time I've dealt with him during the Digital World's beginnings," Cammy responded with faint hope.

"Oh, c'mon, Cammy, you have the power in you!" Artemis said to the young priestess.

"We all know you can do it, Cammy. Just believe you can and you'll do it. Pharaohmon fears your majestic power," Sailor Mercury smiled. "Right, Vega?"

"Yeah, that's right! We really are behind you all the way, kid," Vega nodded.

"We'll be there to back you up, Cammy-chan," Sailor Saturn pat the girl on her left shoulder.

Kneeling beside her young sister, Sailor Mars gave a wink to Cammy and enough support to give her the proper motivation for this upcoming confrontation with the demonic sorcerer. Just by looking into Mars' eyes, Cammy knew she will not let everyone down or god forbid that Pharaohmon does rule the two worlds.

"Hang on tight everyone!" Imperialdramon warned the passengers aboard his hands.

Once he gave out his fair warning, the gigantic dragon man landed slowly on the ground and lowered down to his knees. The digimon crowds scattered away to give the majestic Dra-Warrior leader room to drop off his passengers. Imperialdramon lowered his arms and dropped his hands against the ground. The Sailor Senshi, Cammy, the Dra-Warrior duo, the three Legendary Warrior boys, Labramon and Artemis walked out in front of the arena.

To think that they left this exact area one day before, the group observed their surroundings and noticed the crowds looking towards their direction. Suddenly a Clockmon got a better glimpse of Cammy and gasped out in happy relief.

"Everyone, it's the Digital Priestess! She has been reawakened!" the Clockmon hollered out to the crowds.

"What you mean that woman is the Digital Priestess?" a WereGarurumon wondered.

"Yay! She's here to slay that no good demon, Pharaohmon! We're saved!" a Chuumon, a pink mouse digimon, cheered out from on top of a Sukamon's head.

Then in a matter of moments, the crowds erupted with a massive rally support for Cammy. The Sailor Senshi were happy to see that Cammy would get such a popular reception.

"Aw, they love you, Cammy," Sailor Venus giggled. "You're like a Digital World idol to them!"

"More like a freaking Messiah if you ask me," replied Sailor Jupiter.

"Everyone, we must get going inside. There isn't much time to lose. According to what a Dogmon just informed me, Pharaohmon is competing in a match now," Kyodaidramon reminded them.

"How far are they in the tournament?" Sailor Saturn asked.

"There's a duel match and a dual battle tournament. The Duel is in its finals while the dual battles are in the semi-finals. If we hurry, then we can stop Pharaohmon at his tracks before he wins this tournament!" Espritdramon stated.

"Right! There's no time to lose, girls! Cammy, are you ready?" Sailor Mars asked her sister.

"Ready and willing, dear sister," the young Hino nodded in reply.

"Then, we must proceed onwards if we are to stop Pharaohmon," Sailor Pluto instructed everyone.

"We'll split up along the way," Dimitro suggested. "We three will go and find the other Legendary Warrior kids while you girls take Cammy to find that no good bastard!"

"Then, that leaves Kyodaidramon and I to find our other Dra-Warrior comrades," Espritdramon stated promptly.

"Well, I can't argue with that. In the meantime, Pluto and Saturn can find Uranus and Neptune. This is it, girls. This is the point of no return. If we can manage to pull through this, we'll make Sailor Moon proud of our accomplishments!" Sailor Mars placed her hand out at a center. "Are you ready to end this nightmare once and for all?"

Nodding in reply, each of the Sailors joined in and placed their hands over Mars' accordingly. Then Cammy stepped over to the center and placed her hand on top of the other girls'. Then, with one unified cry, the Sailor Senshi proceeded onward towards the entranceway.

"Good luck girls! We'll go around the side! That should lead us to the back way into the arena!" Sam called out.

"We'll follow you three and see if we can also locate our fellow Dra-Warriors," Kyodaidramon responded to the boy inheriting the spirit of Grottomon.

"In the meantime, I'll stay on patrol outside this arena and provide as backup aid," Imperialdramon ascended upward over the massive stadium. "Kyodaidramon and Espritdramon, may the strength of the Dra-Warrior clan guide you!"

"You, too, Imperialdramon-sama!" the Dra-Warrior duo called out in unison to their leader.

The only one left behind without a mission was Labramon. He looked around the roaring crowds and smiled nervously.

"Um, and I'll keep an eye on the crowds. Just call me, Labramon the crowd patroller!" Labramon declared as he stepped through the crowds. "Out of my way! Let me through! Crowd patroller coming through!"

-

Meanwhile, as the Sailor Senshi ran across the hallways of the ground level, an obstacle had immediately stood in their path. The girls' faces twisted with utter shock and disbelief as if they had seen a ghost. Sailor Mars, Sailor Venus, Sailor Mercury, and Sailor Jupiter had paled faces as they were confronted by none other than General Scorpionus himself. The cybernetic scorpion warrior was completely intact but still reeling from the damage inflicted on him from yesterday.

"Greetings, wretched females! How good it is to see you again!" General Scorpionus chuckled out.

"No way! We saw you get skewered by Ninjadramon and Herodramon the other day! There's no way you can still be alive after all that!" Sailor Jupiter exclaimed.

"Impossible!" gasped Sailor Mercury.

"That's ok, because this guy obviously doesn't know who he's dealing with now!" Sailor Venus stepped forward while placing her hands against her hips. "We were far weaker then than we are now! In fact, we're all stronger thanks to Cammy's little mojo magic!"

"Great, you just had to go into detail, Venus," Artemis sighed.

"In any case, General Scorpionus, you had best step aside or else you'll get hurt," Sailor Mars pointed directly at the cyborg. "We've already dealt with Belial Myotismon and I doubt you're anywhere near his league!"

"Ha! But that doesn't mean I won't stop you!" General Scorpionus exclaimed as he wielded several kitanas. "You human wenches will be skewered by my blades!"

Leaping back, the Senshi scattered about while preparing to go head on against General Scorpionus. Sailor Mars motioned over towards the two Outer Senshi.

"Pluto! Saturn! I want you two to take Cammy into the arena! Find Sailor Uranus and Neptune to allow Cammy to power them up into their Eternal forms! Hurry!"

"Yes, we shall!" Sailor Pluto nodded to the Fire Senshi.

"Let's go, Cammy!" Sailor Saturn called out to the Digital Priestess and led her down the hallway on their right hand side.

Once Pluto, Saturn and Cammy departed down into the right hallway that lead to the upstairs levels, the other three Senshi were left to deal with General Scorpionus. This time the Sailortrio was far stronger with their restored powers and was rejuvenated thanks to Cammy's mystic magic. General Scorpionus jumped against the right side of the walls while swinging his kitanas madly.

He jumped off and came down to slice Sailor Venus in half. However, much to his surprise, Sailor Venus clasped her hands together and quickly sidestepped him with her newfound speed inherited from her Ninja powers. General Scorpionus' blade slammed against the ground and he turned around to be met with an explosive array of hearts penetrating throughout his armored body.

"Venus Love and Beauty Shock!"

Followed up by Venus' attack, Sailor Jupiter spun around and directed numerous leaf blades at the stunned cyborg. They all collided and pierced against Scorpionus' broken armor.

"Jupiter Oak Evolution!"

General Scorpionus was sent flying across and slammed hard against a nearby wall edge. Sailor Mercury jumped in and crossed her arms in front of her. Then, she erected an ice barrier in front of her and shattered it simply by placing her hand against it. The shattered shards of ice turned into deadly icicles and stabbed through Scorpionus' armored hide.

"Mercury Ice Spear Barrage!"

Finally, with General Scorpionus completely thrown off his game, Sailor Mars stepped forward and aimed her fiery arrow directly for the cyborg's chest. She pulled on her bow and released the majestic arrow of flames.

"Mars Flame Sniper!"

The cyborg turned around and wasn't quick to react against this incoming attack. He gasped out in shock and flew back as the arrow PUNCHED right through his chest. General Scorpionus' eyes widened and he flew back across the hallway. The Sailor trio watched the cyborg slam against a nearby wall and waited for him to at least recover. Much to their surprise, General Scorpionus wheezed out and electrocuted from the impact blows. There was now a massive, gaping hole right through his chest and the remains of his heart emerald was shattered. That was his weak point and without it he could no longer sustain his life force. He fell face-first against the ground and was abruptly terminated.

"All right, you nailed him, Mars!" Sailor Venus cheered her fellow Senshi.

"Yes, and I did not want to waste any anymore time on him. We don't have anymore time to lose, guys. We have to keep moving!" Sailor Mars stated before she charged out across the hallways.

"Let's stick together, Mars!" Sailor Mercury called out to the fiery Senshi and followed in pursuit of her.

"Hey, wait for us!" Sailor Jupiter called out to the Fire Senshi.

"Pharaohmon! You better be scared because you have three pissed off skirt-wearing ladies ready to kick your booty!" Sailor Venus laughed excitedly like a child with Artemis tagging along behind her.

"Can't you at least be more serious?" Artemis nodded and sighed in disbelief.

Sailor Mars was already ahead of her fellow Senshi behind her. She was determined to find the others, unite with her sister and finally end the nightmare known as Pharaohmon. Today was the day the demon would fall and never torment her life again. Besides, she even made a vow to herself that she would get the last laugh over the demon.

"Pharaohmon, your final hour is coming up and I intend to get the last laugh! I shall extinguish your dark soul and chastise you until there is nothing left! This is for all the people and digimon you've tormented for the sake of power! It all ends here!" Sailor Mars said in thought while racing across the hallways to fulfill her promise to end Pharaohmon's demon life.

-

---

The second level/Eastern Arena Section

Once running up through the stairway leading to the second floor level, Sailor Pluto and Sailor Saturn led Cammy through the doorways. The trio found themselves in a long hallway but they managed to hear the roaring crowds from the stands. Sailor Pluto turned another corner and found two familiar faces amongst the audience crowd. The faces belonged to none other Sailor Uranus and Sailor Neptune.

"There! I see Uranus and Neptune!" the Guardian of Time pointed directly to the crowd.

"Right! Let's go, Cammy!" Sailor Saturn nodded to the Digital Priestess and led her down the hallway.

As the trio ran closer to the audience, Neptune had immediately caught glimpse of her two fellow Outers and Cammy running by towards them. She nudged Uranus on her shoulder. Sailor Uranus spun around and gasped out happily. But what surprised them the most was the raven-haired teenage girl running by their side. Sailor Uranus thought she had seen Rei Hino just now but realized the girl had a more youthful appearance. She immediately came into realization of who it was.

"Oh my god... Is that girl Cammy?" Sailor Uranus asked as she approached the trio. "Neptune, it's Cammy!"

"You're joking right? This girl is Cammy?" Sailor Neptune asked as she approached the Digital Priestess. "My, how you've grown. I suppose the sword did wonders for you."

"Yes, Sailor Neptune and thank you," Cammy gave a respectful bow to the couple. "Listen, we must make this quick. I'm going to unlock your Eternal powers."

"What? Our Eternal forms? You mean..." Sailor Uranus said and then noticed the other Outers.

"Saturn! Pluto? You two have reached your Eternal forms?" Sailor Neptune gasped out and observed her two fellow Senshi. "Splendid... How beautiful..."

"Yes, and it was all thanks to Cammy. But, listen, we must hurry," Sailor Pluto suggested. "Mars, Mercury, Venus and Jupiter are down at the bottom level taking care of one of Pharaohmon's henchmen."

"So, what do we have to do?" asked Sailor Uranus.

"Just place your hands on Cammy's sword," Sailor Saturn pointed to the Priestess' majestic blade. "You will then gain your new powers."

"That's all we have to do?" Sailor Neptune looked down at the sword. "How beautiful..."

"Yes, that is all," Cammy nodded. "Please, let's make this quick."

"Right!"

As Cammy held the sword in front of her, Sailor Uranus and Sailor Neptune placed their hands directly on the blade. The blade itself emitted a bright, white aura and that power was channeled through the duo's bodies. Uranus and Neptune felt their powers becoming rejuvenated with indescribable powers. Their outfits changed into near white outfits, including their boots, with their respective sailor colors. Sailor Uranus held out her hand to receive her sword while Sailor Uranus received her mirror. The pair looked down upon their new Eternal outfits and gasped happily.

"Wow, I feel much stronger and better than before!" Sailor Uranus gazed down at her new outfit. "My injuries have been healed, too."

"Gorgeous, I like these new outfits," Sailor Neptune slightly giggled. "Cammy-chan, thank you."

"It's my pleasure, Outers," Cammy smiled. "Now that we have everyone in their Eternal forms, we can finally proceed to stop Pharaohmon once and for all!"

"Oh, speaking of which, you guys just missed out on Gallantmon beating the hell out of that monster," Sailor Uranus led everyone back to the audience stands.

Once the girls looked out towards the arena, they had caught glimpse of Pharaohmon and Gallantmon facing each other down. The audiences were in a hushed silence and anticipating the demon to make his next move. Cammy's eyes narrowed coldly as she found Pharaohmon, who was currently at eighty percent of his top strength. Somehow the girl had a bad feeling that something massive would erupt from the demon.

"Everyone, he's going to go for it. I just didn't think he'd even bother showing it this soon," Cammy said to the Outer Senshi.

"What are you talking about, Cammy-chan?" Sailor Saturn asked the Priestess.

"I'm saying that Pharaohmon is going to unleash his full power. There is no possible chance of Gallantmon gaining any sort of victory now."

"Yes, I can see it now," Sailor Pluto agreed with Cammy. "Gallantmon will not stand a chance."

"Are you certain, Pluto?" Sailor Uranus asked until she felt a cold breeze passing by.

"The winds of fate are changing, Uranus," Sailor Neptune whispered to her partner.

"Indeed they are..."

"Hey, guys!" the voice of Sailor Venus called out from behind the group.

Turning around from watching Pharaohmon's match, the Outers and the Digital Priestess turned to find the four Inners arriving just in time. Sailor Venus stopped as she gazed across the new Eternal outfits both Uranus and Neptune were donning.

"Wow, you guys just received your Eternal power-up?" Sailor Venus squealed with delight. "Aren't these outfits just to die for?"

"Now, we all share the Eternal power," Sailor Mercury smiled.

"Wait until Sailor Moon gets a glimpse of us and these suits," Sailor Jupiter replied with her arms crossed.

"So, Pharaohmon is competing now, isn't he?" Sailor Mars walked across and joined by Cammy's side to get a glimpse of Pharaohmon. "My god... Has he gotten bigger just now?"

"That would be eighty percent of his power and right now he's preparing to go full power," Cammy stated promptly. "Sailor Mars, there's no chance that Gallantmon will beat him."

"You mean that Crimson Knight facing off with Pharaohmon?" Sailor Mars asked while sensing their powers thoroughly. "You're right... He has no chance."

"But we can give him a chance if we are to act now," Cammy suggested. "With the sword, I can seal Pharaohmon if we go down there."

"Right! Ok, girls! This is it! We act now or..."

Before Sailor Mars had a chance to finish her sentence, she quickly felt the overwhelming demonic aura and faced towards the battle arenas. The other Senshi also turned around to join Sailor Mars and the Digital Priestess.

"So, it's time..." Cammy whispered.

-

A stare down had taken place between the Crimson Knight and the demonic force of nature for the past few minutes. Neither has made a single move, save for the blinking. The Tamers and their allies were anticipating one of them to move. Even the Spirit Detectives waited for both combatants to make their next move.

"What are they doing? Neither one of them has even bothered to make a move," Agunimon muttered to Wolfmon.

"I know. All of this waiting is really driving me crazy," Wolfmon nodded in reply. "Wait... Oh my god... Agunimon! Here it comes!"

"What...? Oh crap! You're right! I can't believe Pharaohmon is going to go for all of his power!" Agunimon exclaimed. "Honestly, I'd hate to be Gallantmon right now..."

Pharaohmon lifted his head up and started to speak out to break the silence after a long stare down.

"At long last, Gallantmon, you have shown me all that you are capable of..." Pharaohmon spoke as his body started to undergo another change.

This time there were veins popping out of Pharaohmon's body and a black misty aura surrounding him. A twisted smile crossed the demon's face and he raised his arms above his head. More veins started to emerge, including several around his forehead. The ground under his feet slowly started to tremble. Feeling the ground, Gallantmon gasped out.

"Now destiny has rewarded my patience..." the demon continued on during his power-up.

Then, in a matter of seconds, the ground started to violently tremble under Pharaohmon's feet. The whole stadium was feeling the strong earthquake-like tremors. Audiences within the arena were starting to gasp in horror and several screams echoed out.

Omegamon finally figured out what was going to occur and turned towards the group. Athenamon, too, gave everyone a warning glare.

"It's time, everyone! Pharaohmon is preparing to ascend into his full power! Get behind me and I'll shield you all from his demonic aura!" Omegamon instructed everyone.

"I'll help construct a barrier, too," Athenamon joined in with Omegamon. "Don't get out of our sight!"

"Right! Everyone move!" Rika called out to the group. "That means you, too, Takato!"

The goggle boy was hesitant as he did not want to leave Gallantmon behind, but knew he would become absorbed by Pharaohmon's demonic aura. Takato joined in with his friends and allies behind the barrier.

"Are you feeling this, Inumon?" Seadramon asked the dark canine.

"No doubt about it... Damn, and this is the same monster I was facing earlier?" Youkai Inumon stated.

"Just be glad it's not you in that ring right now," Sakuyamon replied to Youkai Inumon.

"Man, this is just whacked out!" Junpei exclaimed. "It's a good thing you came through for us, Omegamon!"

"You, too, Athenamon," Jaarin said as she held Suzie by her side.

"Takato, don't even think about going out there and playing the hero. Pharaohmon's aura will just suck you up dry!" Rika warned the goggle head.

"Yes and I can't imagine losing a friend like you," Jeri nodded.

"I wasn't even thinking about going out there, but I can't just leave Gallantmon..."

"He'll be just fine. That Crimson form will protect him against the demonic aura's effects," Omegamon spoke out. "Athenamon, how long do you think you can help maintain this shield?"

"Maybe twenty minutes at the most. I've never been skilled at erecting good shields," Athenamon replied to the Royal Knight.

"Hopefully, that will be enough time," the male Royal Knight said.

"Wow, now the whole arena is shaking! It's as if an earthquake is trembling but this is no ordinary earthquake! This is all coming from Pharaohmon and his power-up! I have to wonder what he's planning!" Lillymon announced.

The Dra-Warrior trio also felt the tremors from the powered up demon. They gathered to together until they heard the calls of both Kyodaidramon and Espritdramon.

"Hey, guys! We're back!" Espritdramon called out to the trio.

"Ah, Herodramon! Ninjadramon! Great, you two are..." Flamedramon responded but then he gasped. "Heordramon? Ninjadramon?"

"Are you guys really Herodramon and Ninjadramon?" asked Panzerdramon.

"That's right. We've digivolved thanks to the Digital Priestess," nodded Kyodaidramon.

"Wow, you two look great!" Luzdramon approached the duo and examined them. "Yep, you two are definitely mega-level!"

"Hey, where's Imperialdramon-sama? He was supposed to be here just now," Flamedramon asked curiously.

"He's outside this stadium and providing as back-up in case things get messy here," Espritdramon answered the Armored Flame dragon.

"Ah, good, but you guys came just in time," Panzerdramon pointed directly towards the ring. "That monster is set to reach his full power!"

"Already!" Kyodaidramon exclaimed. "Who is his opponent?"

"Gallantmon Crimson form," responded Luzdramon. "That knight was doing well until Pharaohmon recovered from his attacks and sat up! Now he's going for full power!"

"Oh Goddramon help us all," Espritdramon whispered. "If Pharaohmon reaches full power, there's no way even Gallantmon can win!"

-

---

Earth/Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan/Hypnos HQ/4:05 P.M.

Even in Earth's realm, especially within the confines of the secret organization of Hypnos, the power of Pharaohmon was rising. The data screen displayed a magnitude of power collecting into a single power source. Yamaki took notice of this and worried for the worst to come.

"Sir! I'm picking up abnormal and powerful activity! At this rate, our systems will shut down!" Riley called out to her boss. "You don't think it has anything to do with that Pharaohmon monster, Yamaki?"

"There's no doubt about it, Riley. If Takato and his friends don't do something fast, our networks will be shut down and there's no doubt Pharaohmon will rupture a hole in our world with his power. With his surging power, he could no doubt construct a worm hole!"

"No, it can't be..." Talley gasped in shock.

"Takato, you and your friends are our only hope. There's nothing more we and the planet can do but pray," Yamaki sighed in thought.

-

---

Chiba Apartment Residence/San Francisco, California, USA/12:05 A.M.

Watching the television closely and catching a glimpse of Pharaohmon's power increase, the blonde-haired odango girl, Usagi Tsukino, feared for the safety of her friends. She had questioned herself on why she couldn't have been there to help her friends. She held Luna tightly next to her and felt her heart racing.

Just then, a young man with dark hair wearing a white shirt and blue pants walked in to spot the girl sitting on the couch. He walked over and sat next to her. He noticed a worried glare on her face and turned face the television.

"Usa-ko, what's wrong?" the young man asked Usagi, who he always referred to as 'Usa-ko' as a pet name.

"Mamo-chan! That monster, Pharaohmon! He's transforming!" Usagi pointed to the television. "I just hope everyone is all right."

"Let's hope so, Usagi-chan," Luna replied.

"They'll take care of themselves, Usa-ko. All we can do now is hope that this monster is defeated like our many enemies," the man known as Mamoru held Usagi close to him.

"Yeah..." Usagi whispered. "I know my friends are capable of surviving on their own. I just hope that they found that Priestess' powers. It's wonderful to know that Rei-chan has a sister and I do hope to meet Cammy-chan one day. For now, I hope they can defeat Pharaohmon. Good luck, my Senshi."

-

---

Phoenix Arena/Duel and Battle Platforms

Then, with everything coming relatively calm, the tremors immediately stopped but that wasn't the end of it. Pharaohmon raised his arms higher and released a massive, purple-red column of light. The light column shot up through the stadium roof and penetrated through it. The purple column flew straight up as if it were a spotlight and covered the demon completely in its mystic light. Gallantmon was pushed back from the overwhelming force and watched an outline of Pharaohmon within the bright light.

This quickly forced Lillymon to pull out a pair of sunglasses and placed them over her eyes. Etemon crawled away from the battle arena and snuck under the announce table to find safety from Pharaohmon's overwhelming presence.

"It's like an eclipse in here! It's a good thing I brought my sunglasses! Pharaohmon's power is flaring out like a bright sun radiation! I just hope each and every one of you has your own pair of sunglasses!"

"Oh Mommymon, please do come and comfort me!" Etemon quivered behind the announcer's table and sucked on his thumb.

Then, Pharaohmon raised his arms across and pushed the column of demonic energy out across. It expanded out and unleashed an array of demonic blasts across the arena. The audiences started to scatter about from being blasted. Some were immediately caught by Pharaohmon's aura and deleted for their data to be absorbed.

The Spirit Detectives braced themselves as one of Pharaohmon's demonic blasts were heading towards their direction. Much to their surprise, Puu flew right out of Keiko's hands and constructed a blue barrier to shield everyone from the blast. Yusuke, Kurama, Hiei, Kuwabara, Botan and Mizuno were all awe struck in shock. This little beast managed to shield them from the demon's gigantic blast! How incredible for a tiny creature to pull off such a great feat!

"Whoa! That was a close one, but Puu! Did you just do that!" Yusuke exclaimed. "Koenma, did you know he could do this?"

"Of course, he's your Spirit Beast, after all, Yusuke," Koenma nodded. "Plus, there'll be many other things Puu will have in store for you."

"Man, I feel rather embarrassed to have a tiny little fuzz ball save my life," Kuwabara rubbed his head.

"Puu," Keiko whispered while gazing up at the Spirit Beast. "You're like a real miracle worker... I'm glad."

"Big cheers for Puu I say!" Botan happily giggled.

"Pharaohmon's powers are growing as it seems," Kurama muttered while keeping an eye on the battlefield.

"Yes and that knight will no longer have any chance to win," Hiei replied. "It's all over for him as far as I'm concerned.

"Well, you win some and you lose some," Mizuno sighed. "I just hoped that Gallantmon had taken care of him sooner."

Yusuke walked past everyone and viewed Pharaohmon's presence inside the column of demonic light. The Detective wondered if he would end up facing a power such as this in his near future. He had hoped not, but Yusuke has his own destiny to fulfill sooner than he can imagine.

On the other side of the arena, another demonic blast came flying across through the stands. The Digital Priestess held the sword in front of her and shielded the Sailor Senshi from the incoming blast. Joining in with Cammy was Sailor Saturn. The Senshi of Destruction placed up her Silence Wall to ensure the barrier was stronger than the demonic blast.

"Damn, now that was close! You're a real life saver, Cammy!" Sailor Venus exclaimed.

"If that blast had hit us, we would have been goners for sure," Sailor Jupiter replied.

"Thank you, Sailor Saturn," Cammy smiled to the Senshi.

"No problem, plus you don't have to waste your energy constructing a barrier for us," Sailor Saturn nodded with her Glaive held over her head.

"Damn, to think Pharaohmon's full power was this strong," Sailor Pluto looked downward at the transforming demon. "Everyone, he's going to morph his body!"

"Into what I wonder?" Sailor Mercury wondered.

"One thing is for sure, if you thought he was ugly before, then you're going to be definitely grossed out," Sailor Mars shuddered. "I can't imagine what he will look like now!"

"Stay strong, Senshi! We've gone against some of the nastiest powers in the universe! This is no different!" Artemis reminded the Senshi.

"Yes, but to think there is a monster such as Pharaohmon in another world," Sailor Neptune shuddered.

"The winds of fate are indeed changing, Neptune," agreed Sailor Uranus.

Cammy kept a defiant glare as she turned back to face the transforming Pharaohmon. The very same demon she had sealed away for the Sovereigns would once again grace his presence with FULL POWER.

Omegamon looked around the arena and watched the many digimon getting absorbed by Pharaohmon's demonic blasts. The children and the digimon were flabbergasted in horror by this scene. Even Rika was heartbroken to see the numerous digimon being absorbed by Pharaohmon and having their livelihoods taken away.

"It's hard to tell whether Pharaohmon can't control his power or that he is attacking the crowds on purpose," Felinismon looked around the arena.

"Yeah, I have to agree with that," Henry replied.

"Damn! Here I thought I had gluttony to absorb data," Beelzebumon looked around the arena. "This punk is getting out of control if you ask me!"

"And Gallantmon isn't even doing anything to stop him!" Terriermon pointed out.

"C'mon, Gallantmon! You have to fight him from absorbing those digimon! He's just taking their data to fuel his own power!" Takato yelled out angrily. "Don't let this monster continue!"

For a moment, Jeri noticed Takato displaying another violent tirade. This had occurred when Takato fueled Megidramon with pure rage in the battle against Beelzebumon nearly a year ago. She did not want to see this look on Takato's face again.

"Takato! Please, don't get angry! I won't want this to be a relapse!" Jeri called out.

This quickly caught Takato's attention as he spun around and sighed sadly. Once he looked directly into Jeri's saddened eyes, he calmed his rage down and turned back towards the battlefield.

With Pharaohmon's body limped forward, the purple aura surrounding him was being absorbed into his body. Gallantmon stood his ground with a shocked expression in his eyes. Inside Arena B, Agunimon and Wolfmon were fortunate to not have been absorbed.

"That was close one if you ask me! Otherwise we would have been fed into that guy!" Agunimon shouted with relief. "But... I can definitely feel this guy's power! Wicked scary!"

"And he's only just beginning! Take a look! He's already transforming as it is!" Wolfmon pointed out.

Gallantmon backed away and watched the demon transform. The first part of Pharaohmon's body to undergo a change was his shoulders and forearms. They enlarged as if they were inflated. He roared out as parts of his body expanded out. Next, his legs and calves enlarged. His chest expanded out with more muscular features and a well-defined six pack around his waist. His shoulders extended out and grew as large as cars. His stature was ten feet taller than his normal form. The skin of the demon's body had taken a color pigmentation change from gray to grayish-black. Pharaohmon's eyes dimmed with the same purple energy. The pants were slightly ripped off and his shirt was incinerated by the demonic aura.

Pharaohmon breathed heavily while undergoing his long transformation. The Crimson Knight was too scared to even move a single muscle. Beads of sweat dripped underneath Gallantmon's armored face. His heart stopped for a few moments and his body stiffened. The overwhelming presence of Pharaohmon's one hundred percent form was enough to intimidate the knight digimon.

The demon's body twisted about some with more muscle mass being added to his body. As his transformation was complete, Pharaohmon lowered his head and cancelled off his powerful purple aura.

"Oh... my... god..." Agunimon was all could say at this moment.

"This is... his full power...?" a frightened Wolfmon stepped back.

"Man and I thought I've seen everything!" Junpei exclaimed. "This is freaking insane!"

"Suzie, you stay behind me and Lopmon, ok?" Jaarin whispered to her sister.

"Yes, big sister," Suzie nodded with a frightened look on her face and cuddled next to Lopmon.

"As this is the monster Lord Zhuqiaomon and the Sovereigns feared," Lopmon replied. "I never thought I'd ever feel this kind of power in my lifetime."

"Unfortunately, you haven't seen the horrors of what this bastard was capable of during the Great Wars," Omegamon responded to the former Deva.

"At long last, you've revealed your true self, you heartless son of a bitch," Athenamon muttered as she glared coldly at the fully transformed Pharaohmon.

"Rika, I've never felt such a power. He could crush us all with this amount of power," Sakuyamon said to her partner.

"That's insane..." Rika shuddered in fear. "I didn't think I'd be this scared..."

"Ryo, this is a power even we cannot hope to defeat," Cyberdramon growled while feeling out Pharaohmon's presence.

"That's unfortunate," Ryo responded.

Takato glared directly out towards the battle arena area and held his hand against his chest.

"C'mon, Gallantmon... I still believe in you... Even if he has reached full power, we can still find a way to win!" Takato exclaimed. "Don't let him scare you, buddy!"

"Pineapple head, what are you waiting for! Finish him off now or you'll let him reach further past his full power!" Beelzebumon shouted to the Crimson knight. "Hurry it up!"

Gallantmon was too shocked to even reply to anyone of his comrades, including Takato. His eyes met directly with Pharaohmon's. The demon's shoulders extended outward to reveal holes at the very ends. These were the little tools necessary to absorb the data of his victims around the arena. Everyone would be sufficient to fulfill his appetite.

"I... I can't move," Gallantmon thought. "It's not fear that's holding me back. It's... curiosity. I just need to know what he has to offer in his full power form! Sorry, Takato, but I have to continue this fight!"

As soon as the demonic aura dispersed and the power-up was complete, Pharaohmon stood out at the center of the stadium at his full powered glory. His face twisted with a serious demeanor and his body was completely muscular. His mere presence caused everyone to gasp in awe and admire his powerful appearance. Others were simply scared out of their wits. The Spirit Detectives, the Sailor Senshi, the Dra-Warriors and the many members of the audience were shocked in awe.

"So, this is full power?" Demon whispered.

"Wow, Pharaohmon sure wasn't kidding, wasn't he, Lord Demon?" Lady Devimon asked the Demon Lord.

"No he wasn't and I'm proud to have served him. He will crush that shiny little knight," Demon chuckled in delight.

"Ah, this is wonderful! At long last, Pharaohmon will avenge our losses!" Marine Devimon said while holding an icepack and a crutch. "Damn... Say, where's Skull Satanmon?"

"Yoo-hoo! Over here!" Skull Satanmon whistled out to Marine Devimon.

The aquatic demon turned to find Skull Satanmon feasting on a cheeseburger in one hand. Marine Devimon simply hung his head low and snatched the burger out of his hand.

"Not now! You have to give your support for Lord Pharaohmon!"

"Hey, but I was just going to eat that," Skull Satanmon sniffled a tear.

Even Piedmon, who was given bandages around his waist and a crutch for one arm, was astonished. He and Machinedramon watched the events unfold behind the second entrance.

"This is Lord Pharaohmon's full power, Piedmon. What do you think?" Machinedramon asked the Dark Master leader.

"It's stronger than I've ever hoped," Piedmon responded. "All I can say that it's all over for the digimon of the hazard."

Socramon peeked out of his hiding spot and watched Pharaohmon standing tall in his powered up form.

"So... He doesn't get stronger than this, right?" Socramon wondered. "I would hope not. Whew, I was so lucky to have escaped that little mess, but I wanted Basilikmon! Bah, you stole my glory, Inumon!"

The fully-powered juggernaut faced off with Gallantmon in a long stare down. Silence once again had overcome the entire stadium. There were only a few gasping out in awe at the events, including the Tamers and legendary warriors.

Sam, Vega and Dimitro had finally arrived in time to watch the events unfold. The other children were fortunate that they arrived back safely but the main attraction of the hour was definitely Pharaohmon.

"Man, here we come to surprise you guys and this guy steals the show!" Vega scoffed. "Damn, show off! But, I hope Ami is safe."

"Dude, this is Pharaohmon at his full power?" Sam gulped. "Oh and I'm sure she's fine, Vega. Those girls are very resourceful."

"I just hope to god he doesn't get stronger," Dimitro hoped with a slight prayer.

"Oh, boy, Poor Gallantmon," Felinismon sighed in sadness. "He no longer stands a chance."

"Hey! You had better watch what you say, kitty cat!" Rika snapped.

"How could you say such a horrible thing, Felinismon?" Jeri asked her partner. "You'll see! Gallantmon will rise to the occasion!"

"Face facts, everyone, this is Pharaohmon at one hundred percent of his strength! Nobody, not even Anubimon, had the skill to deal with this!" Omegamon announced to the group. "This is the second time he's ever had to reach this form and he's far more powerful now than he was then! Fighting Gallantmon was a rare opportunity and he was pleased. This is why he decided to power-up all the way!"

"But it's as Felinismon said, he no longer stands a chance?" Henry stated.

"Please, Gallantmon is so going to win, right?" Terriermon quipped and rolled his eyes. "You're seeing too much into this! Gallantmon's dealt with the D-Reaper!"

"Yes, but even the D-Reaper agent pales in comparison to this monster," Sakuyamon reminded the witty dog rabbit.

"Pharaohmon at his full power would rip through the D-Reaper if he wanted to use his raw power and demonic aura," Athenamon revealed to everyone.

Upon hearing this, the Tamers were horrified. To think that a single digimon as ancient as Pharaohmon could have defeated the D-Reaper. Takato gazed towards where Gallantmon was standing and gulped.

"This guy could rip D-Reaper in two? Tell me Athenamon was just joking, right?" Takato thought in worry. "I mean Crimson Mode can still take this guy, right? Bigger doesn't always mean better, right? I hope I'm right."

"I remember the D-Reaper and I'll have to agree," Izumi stated. "We've dealt with Lucemon, a rather powerful monster himself."

"That's right. I'd say this guy is around Lucemon's strength, right?" Tomoki asked Omegamon.

"I'd say so, but Pharaohmon can find methods to even overpower Lucemon when he so chooses," the Royal Knight replied.

"Man that is not good!" Kazu exclaimed. "Chumly, I hope Gallantmon has an ace up his sleeve and I hope he finds it fast!"

Back at the center of the battlefield, Pharaohmon slowly marches towards Gallantmon. The Crimson knight jumped back and waited in anticipation of the demon to attack him.

"Gallantmon, do something!" Agunimon exclaimed. "Wolfmon! We have to help him! I don't think I can even concentrate with this maniac at his full power!"

"I have to admit but I can't continue on fighting you either. This guy is getting way out of hand with his power! There has to be a way for us to fight together against Pharaohmon in the event Gallantmon loses!" Wolfmon growled with intensity. "Wait! There is a way...!"

Before Wolfmon had a chance to come up with his idea, Pharaohmon stopped his march and lifted his right hand up. He closed his fist and then flicked his thumb over his fingers. Before Gallantmon could even blink an eye, a steel object shot out of Pharaohmon's thumb...

-

-

CA-CHINK!

-

-

The object struck Gallantmon in the forehead and caused him to go flying back across the battlefield. He slid across the landscape and crashed against fallen stone debris. Gallantmon grunted from the blow and coughed out blood through his face mask.

"What the hell just happened!" Agunimon exclaimed as his eyes deceived him.

"I don't know but he caught Gallantmon off guard and sent him flying across! But what did he do?" Wolfmon wondered.

Pharaohmon stood across and chuckled to himself. Lifting himself off the ground, Gallantmon shook the cobwebs out of his head and felt a crimson drop of blood splatter underneath his armored suit.

"What was that just now? One second I was standing and the next I was sent flying back by... HIS THUMB! He shot me down with his thumb!" Gallantmon thought.

"Heh, did you like that one, Gallantmon?" Pharaohmon snickered. "Unlike your powers, I have an infinite supply of these!"

"Oh, we'll see!" Gallantmon sat up and channeled the power of Grani through his fists. "Shoot me if you dare!"

As soon as Gallantmon challenged the demon, Pharaohmon sat out at least a hundred metal pellets directly at the Crimson knight head on. They all shot across in a matter of seconds and Gallantmon shocked everyone by blocking these shots out with his energy-coated fists.

"Wow and here I thought it didn't move faster than this! Pharaohmon is shooting out more than a hundred of those pellets but I can't even see a single one! Gallantmon is blocking all of those shots out with just his fists! How long will Gallantmon be able to keep this up?"

Before long, the array of pellets tagged against Gallantmon's armor. He crossed his arms to defend himself against the rain of metal pellets. A large smoke cloud was built around where Gallantmon stood. Nearly the entire arena was astonished with Gallantmon's tenacity and sheer will to continue through this match.

"Looks like Gallantmon has been done in by Pharaohmon's attack! It looks like Pharaohmon just might win this... No! Hold the phone! Here comes Gallantmon from out of the smoke cloud!"

"GO GET HIM, GALLANTMON!" Takato andthe children cried out in unison.

The Crimson Knight flew right out of the smoke cloud and channeled energy through his right fist. He pulled his fist back and unleashed a loud battle cry.

"TAKE THIS!"

Before Gallantmon's fist aimed directly for Pharaohmon, the demon entity blocked the Crimson knight's fist with merely his right thumb. The force of the punch did not even leave a mark or bend Pharaohmon's thumb in the process. A shocked expression crossed Gallantmon's face as he realized that he had placed everything through that one punch. Pharaohmon retaliated by slamming his right fist against Gallantmon's left arm and...

SNAP!

A loud snap echoed from the blow. Gallantmon hollered out in pain from the painful and armor-bone shattering blow. The Crimson knight flew back and rolled across the ground with his face twisted in excruciating pain.

"No! Gallantmon!" Takato exclaimed. "Get up!"

"His arm has been snapped in two! There's no chance Gallantmon can win with one arm!" Omegamon cried out.

"No... Gallantmon... Damn that monster! Pharaohmon!" Youkai Inumon cursed as he struggled to break free out of Sakuyamon's grip.

"No, I won't let you go back out there, Inumon!" Sakuyamon held tightly around Youkai Inumon's waist.

"No! Oh, Himura! Does Gallantmon have a chance?" Yui asked her brother worryingly.

"I... I don't think he does," Himura sighed in disappointment.

"No! We have to remain supportive for Gallantmon! I know Takato would rather want all of us to stay supportive no matter how bad the tide turns!" Kazu exclaimed. "Isn't that right, Takato?"

"Yeah..." Takato muttered as he eyed the battlefield. "C'mon, Gallantmon!"

Rika noticed how emotionally distraught Takato was at the very moment. She couldn't help but feel terrible for the poor boy. If it had been Sakuyamon in the match, she would be feeling the sorrow and pain of her digimon partner. After all, they all once bio-merged and were 'one' being at one point.

"Oh Takato..." Rika whispered. "I know how you must be feeling. I'd feel horrible if it were Sakuyamon out there with that monster."

Stepping towards the fallen Gallantmon, Pharaohmon snickered at the Crimson knight. The knight looked directly up at Pharaohmon defiantly and trying to ignore the threshold of pain in his arm.

"I have more power in my thumb than you do in your entire body!" Pharaohmon stated.

"Oh yeah... Well, let's see if you can take a direct blast head on!" Gallantmon retorted while channeling energy through his right hand.

"Now, hit me with everything you've got. You won't know which blast will be your last."

As soon as he said that, Gallantmon created a white sword from out of the energy and directed it towards Pharaohmon. His main target was aimed directly for Pharaohmon's chest.

"FINAL JUSTICE!"

Once that specific attack was hurtling right for Pharaohmon, the demon inflated his chest outward and stopped the attack at its tracks. He barely even struggled to stop the attack in place and watched as it detonated against his body. Once the smoke cloud cleared, there was not a single scratch on Pharaohmon's body. This was the same attack that destroyed the Evil Jeri Face within the D-Reaper, but did little to affect Pharaohmon. The evil demon sorcerer laughed out maniacally.

There were load moans from each of the party group: the Tamers/Legendary Warriors/Digimon, the Sailor Senshi, the Dra-Warriors and the Spirit Detectives. All of them couldn't believe what they were watching.

Even the other Amazons watched this turn of events in utter horror. Mermaimon, Jaguarmon and Darcmon had hoped Gallantmon would have finished the demon. Alas, their former Queen, Garudamon, was not avenged as long as Pharaohmon was still alive.

"Mind if I say that was an unexpected turn of events? I couldn't believe what I've just seen! Pharaohmon had stopped Gallantmon's attack with merely the puff of his chest! Just what kind of monster is Gallantmon dealing with?"

"He's a monster! That's what he is!" Sam exclaimed as he fell back. "You mean we've been fighting this guy this whole time."

"That's right and he decided this would be the event to expose his full power," Omegamon replied. "I'm sorry to say but even Lord Anubimon would have stood no chance."

"No! If Gallantmon can't beat this guy, then who will?" Seadramon wondered.

"It all comes down to Takuya or Kouji if you ask me," Izumi looked towards Arena B. "Those two aren't even fighting anymore. I don't blame them after everything we've just seen!"

"Unless, there's another way..." Junpei had finally just figured it out.

"What do you mean, Junpei?" Jaarin asked the boy.

"Hum? Did you have something in mind, Junpei?" Vega approached Junpei.

"I'm rather curious to know," Dimitro nodded with interest.

"Hey, is it something that'll stop Pharaohmon at his tracks once and for all?" asked Sam.

Tomoki gasped as he realized what Junpei had in mind.

"No way! You mean..."

"You got that right, little guy," Junpei replied.

"Hum, I wonder what those guys are talking about?" Henry wondered. "Wait, does this have something to do with Takuya and Kouji?"

"But we can't do this without Kouichi. C'mon, Kouichi! We're all waiting for you!" Junpei thought.

-

---

Ground Level/Training Room

Duskmon stared down Reichmon, the Advanced Warrior of Darkness. This was the same A-Hybrid he had dealt with in the dream world created by Yami Bakura. Duskmon believed that Reichmon had only been accessible in the dream dimension, similar to the lightsaber Himura had wielded. Much to dismay, Reichmon has an existence in reality, too.

"No... NO! This can't be!" Duskmon bellowed out angrily. "Kouichi! How are you able to gain this power in the real world? This isn't supposed to be happening!"

"Too bad for you that I exist in dreams, nightmares and reality. I exist wherever there is darkness. I am the darkness! The true Warrior of Darkness!" Reichmon declared and pointed his staff directly at Duskmon. "Your false existence is about to end, Duskmon! I intend to erase you in the name of the Ancient spirit of AncientSphinxmon!"

Upon hearing the name of the ancient warrior, Duskmon roared out and charged across. He wielded his crimson blade and aimed to decapitate Reichmon.

"If I can't have you, then I shall take your HEAD!" Duskmon roared out. "RAGH!"

The Corrupted Warrior of Darkness slammed his crimson blades across but only to be blocked out by Reichmon's staff. He held Duskmon at hand and slammed the end of his staff into Duskmon's abdomen. Duskmon staggered back but not long as the eyes on his body and skull eyes released a tri-crimson blast.

"DEADLY GAZE!"

Reichmon did not even bother breaking a sweat. He held his staff in mid-air and the gem embedded on his chest dimmed a crimson light. Reichmon fired out a red cross-shaped blast directly through Duskmon's attack.

"ROT KREUZ!"

The superior attack of Reichmon penetrated through Duskmon's attack and slammed HARD against the Corrupt Warrior himself. He was sent flying hard against a vanity mirror. The shards of glass showered over Duskmon's fallen form. Reichmon slowly walked over towards his fallen adversary.

"No... I can't be beaten like this... I am the true Warrior of Darkness, Kouichi... You're the fake!" Duskmon bellowed out. "You gave me, Duskmon, PAIN! You fool! I'm the one who inflicts PAIN! I'm going to send you to the bowels of Hell when I'm finished with you!"

"Then, why don't you try me using your stronger B-Hybrid form?" Reichmon challenged his evil counterpart.

"If you're wishing a death sentence, then it'll be my pleasure! EXECUTE! SLIDE EVOLUTION!" Duskmon called out as digicode engulfed his form and transformed him into the winged Velgemon. "VELGEMON!"

Velgemon flew straight up over the ceiling and glared hungrily down at Reichmon.

"Today it ends here, Kouichi!"

"Indeed it does, but I'm afraid it's the end for you, Duskmon," Reichmon responded.

"We'll see!" Velgemon screeched out as he planted his left wing on the ground and carved a circle around Reichmon.

The True Warrior of Darkness simply chuckled and crossed his arms. It was a surprise that he was taking this lightly since he had de-digivolved last time he was trapped inside Velgemon's ultimate attack.

"Why aren't you attempting to run, Kouichi? I caused you to de-digivolve last time and you don't even attempt to run? Are you that idiotic?" Velgemon laughed heartily. "But it'll make it easier for me! Farewell, Kouichi! DARK OBLITERATION!"

With that said the dome encased Reichmon inside and detonated. The room trembled under the sheer power of the explosion and blew a part nearly the entire training room. All that was left was a crater the size of half the room. Velgemon glared down at a smoldering cloud and gasped out when he found a figure ascending out.

"No... NO! This can't be!" Velgemon gasped out. "Kouichi! You survived!"

Reichmon levitated without a scratch on his body. He had survived Velgemon's ultimate attack with ease. This was unheard of, even for Duskmon's B-Hybrid.

"How were you able to survive? It's impossible! You couldn't have flown out of there!"

"I am far superior to even your B-Hybrid form, Duskmon. I told you to never underestimate me! You're arrogance will be your own undoing!" Reichmon exclaimed as he spun around his staff.

"How are you stronger! Explain!"

"Because I have friends, Velgemon," Reichmon responded with a serious demeanor. "Unlike you, I value friendship despite being the true Warrior of Darkness! I have a brother, a mother, a family, and friends to support me! I have the support of the Ancient Spirit! I have the support of all the Legendary Warriors! You have nothing to rely on but your own self pity! You thrive on fear, but I DON'T fear you anymore!"

"Ha! A touching speech, but it all ends here! Kouichi!" Velgemon swooped down to attack Reichmon head on.

"And so it does end for you," Reichmon responded in a low tone and flew up into mid-air.

Both Velgemon and Reichmon were flying directly at each other for one final attack. The red gem on Velgemon dimmed a crimson light while Reichmon threw his staff across with a spear point at the very end. The spear came hurtling before Velgemon could even detect it. He tried to attack with another Dark Vortex, but it was cancelled out by Reichmon's attack.

-

-

SHICK!

-

-

The spear end of Reichmon's staff pierced right through the chest. Velgemon screeched out in agony and quivered.

"NOOOO!"

Reichmon landed on the ground and turned around to face Velgemon. The Corrupt B-Hybrid dropped to the ground and his digicode emerged.

"It is over for you, Velgemon," Reichmon pulled out his D-Scanner.

"How can this be possible...?" Velgemon wondered as his digicode was scanned through by Reichmon's D-Scanner.

"Velgemon, your corrupt heart of darkness shall become purified! DIGI-CODE! SCAN!" Reichmon called out as he successfully scanned Velgemon's data.

In place of Velgemon was Duskmon. The defeated Corrupt Warrior of Darkness fell to his knees and panted heavily. He glared up at Reichmon and sighed. Rather than prolonging the battle, he muttered two words.

"I surrender."

"So, you've seen the error of your ways, Duskmon. You realize that I, Reichmon, am the True A-Hybrid of Darkness. You recognize Loweemon as the True H-Hybrid and you call Kaiser Leomon as the True B-Hybrid?"

"I do. It's over for me. Pharaohmon was wrong to have brought me back as a false existence. You are the rightful Warrior of Darkness, Kouichi. I commend you. You have managed to make yourself stronger than... I could ever hope to dream."

"That's a lot coming from you, Duskmon."

"AncientSphinxmon would be proud of you, Kouichi. Now... It is time."

"Indeed it is."

"Kouichi, you take care of yourself and help bring about Pharaohmon's defeat. This world doesn't need a monster like him running the show. Make sure he learns to respect the... Legendary... Warriors..."

"I will fulfill this final request. Sayonara, Duskmon," Reichmon held his D-Scanner over Duskmon and collected the last of his digicode.

This time for sure Duskmon would remain sealed up and never to be released again. Reichmon let out a sigh and de-digivolved back into Kouichi. The boy looked down at the D-Scanner and caught a glimpse of Duskmon, which faded away.

"It's finally over," Kouichi sighed a relief. "But, why did Duskmon choose surrender over attempting to kill me when my guard was down? Guess I'll never know."

Suddenly, his D-Scanner started to beep and the boy quickly picked up a call from Izumi.

"Huh? It's from Izumi?" Kouichi pressed the reply button on his D-Scanner. "What is it, Izumi? I'm here!"

"Kouichi? Are you okay? Where have you been?"

"Sorry, but I had a run-in with Duskmon. I managed to defeat him and scanned him."

"What? Duskmon? That's great that you beat him for good, but we're in an urgent situation and we need you!"

"What's going on? How is Gallantmon doing?"

"He's doing badly! Pharaohmon just reached one hundred percent of his power and he's already taking Gallantmon apart!"

"This is terrible! What about Takuya and Kouji?"

"They stopped fighting since they can't focus. They're too concerned for Gallantmon."

"So what does Junpei have in mind?"

"You'll see when you get here fast. He'll tell us what he has in mind."

"All right, I'm on my way, Izumi," Kouichi replied before ending the transmission signal to Izumi. "I wonder. Could Junpei actually be planning for... Ah! That's it! Man, I never thought you would have this in mind! Hang on! I'm on my way over!"

-

---

Outside the Phoenix Arena/North Sector

As the battle matches continued from inside the stadium, the duel outside was getting intense. Yami Yugi was on a losing end against Lance. However, with his friends supporting him, Yugi had no intention of losing this duel. He was determined to win and thwart Lance of his madness.

"In case you haven't joined us, but Yugi has been on the losing end with Lance in the finals of our Duel Tournament! Remember if Yugi loses this duel, he will have to relinquish his puzzle to Lance. If Yugi wins, Lance would be set free. Well, Lance is determined to remain loyal to Pharaohmon and keep the dark powers bestowed to him. With Pharaohmon at full power, Lance has been on the winning end. There is simply no stopping this kid!"

"C'mon, Yug! Hang in there! There's no way you'll lose to this freak of a kid!" Joey shouted in support for his friend.

"Yugi! We're behind you!" Tea called to the spiked-haired duelist.

"Stay strong, Yugi!" Duke supported the teen.

"That Lance is definitely no pushover that's all I can say," Mai said while observing the duel at hand.

"Yugi, don't you dare lose to this punk kid," Kaiba observed the duel. "Seriously, Yugi, you can do better than this. Nobody will have the right to defeat you but me! If you end up losing to this kid, I will have lost what respect I have for you. Now get up on your feet!"

Just then, the group turned to hear footsteps behind them. They found a white-haired teen approach them with an innocent smile.

"Hi, guys. I hear Yugi's dueling in the finals," Bakura spoke up. "I would have expected Yugi to make it this far."

"Shouldn't you be resting?" Tristan asked the teen.

"Oh, I've had plenty of rest but thanks for visiting me while I was out," Bakura smiled. "So, fill me in on what's been happening?"

"So far, Lance has been giving Yugi a run for his money. I never thought I'd see a guy like him make it this far out," Mokuba replied.

"Ah, so Yugi is in trouble indeed. But, unfortunately for Lance, if he does win the puzzle, I can simply steal it from him and get the last laugh over Pharaohmon! Pharaohmon was a fool to ever place trust in me! I can't wait until he finally breaks down!" the evil spirit within Bakura snickered in thought.

Yami Yugi was rising to his feet and glared down Lance with a serious demeanor. After hearing his friends cheering him on, the King of Games was not about to let them neither of his friends down nor surrender the puzzle had worked hard to piece together.

"Ah, still have some fight left in you?" Lance snickered. "I'm not surprised. You are Yugi Muto after all. You're the King of Games. I would expect this kind of tenacity from you."

"Lance, I'm far from finished and you for one should know that. When this duel is through, I promise that you will be set free from Pharaohmon's control!"

"Humph, you keep telling yourself that, Yugi. I, on the other hand, will continue to inflict the punishment," Lance laughed out heartily. "Once I defeat you, not only will I be known as the only duelist to defeat Seto Kaiba and Yugi Muto in one tournament, but I will gain possession of your Millennium Puzzle! I shall be crowned the new King of Games and I will bare witness Pharaohmon's ascension as king of the two worlds!"

"You keep believing in Pharaohmon's false hope, but I will see to it that there is a brighter future for both digital and human kind alike!" Yugi declared.

"That'll be enough out of you, worm. Now, let us continue your punishment!"

"Yes, and it's my move, Lance!" Yugi reminded the boy. "Now, I'll fight fire with fire! I summon forth my own Gemini Elf!"

"Hum, this ought to be quite interesting, Yugi," lance observed the duelist playing out the card.

The twin elf pair appeared by Yugi's side and set their sights on Lance's beast.

"Now, my Gemini Elf, attack his Mad Sword Beast!" Yugi exclaimed in command.

The elf pair flew across and landed a double boot across the Mad Sword Beast's head. The beast took the vicious blow full force and rolled over in defeat. Its body shattered into data fragments and caused damage directly to Lance's life points.

Lance

Life Points: 2700 (3200-500)

"After that, I'll set on card facedown and end my turn!" Yugi declared. "It's your move, Lance!"

"Yes, and I plan to retaliate with this!" Lance summoned forth a card and revealed a mask. "I'll equip this mask known as the Mask of the Accursed on your Gemini Elf! As long as this card remains on your monster, it cannot attack! In addition, you lose 500 life points during each standby phases!"

"No... This is not what I needed," Yami Yugi grunted angrily. "No, we can't afford to lose 500 points after ever turn! That's going to hurt us in the long run!"

"But he doesn't have Mask of Restrict on the field, like Lumis and Umbra did." Yugi reminded the spirit.

"That's true, which means..."

"Next, I'll set one card facedown in defense mode and switch my Gemini Elf out in a face-up defense position!" Lance declared as he switched his elves into defense mode. "That'll end my turn! Now, time to make your move... Oops, I forgot, you lose 500 life points as soon you start!"

Yugi grunted as his life points dropped down.

Yugi

Life Points: 950 (1450-500)

"Don't feel bad, Yugi. All thanks to my Mask of the Accursed, you lose 500 life points for every turn!"

"So, this is how you're going to gain victory?"

"Yes, and I'll use any method to claim your puzzle!"

"Well, I'm not going to let you get away with this. Lance! I will set you free of Pharaohmon's dark control! Do you hear me?"

"Yeah, yeah, I've already heard that mumbo jumbo like sixteen times already. Let's just carry on with the duel!"

"Very well! Now, I'll wipe out your Gemini Elf! To save my own life points, I'll sacrifice my Gemini Elf and bring forth an even stronger monster to the field! Behold, my Dark Magician Girl!"

In place of the Gemini Elf was a beautiful blonde-haired girl garbed in a light blue magician's outfit with pink trim around it.

Dark Magician Girl

2000/1700/6 star

"Humph, so you drew your pretty little magician girl," Lance snickered at the magician. "How amusing..."

"Not as amusing as her destroying your Gemini Elf! Now, my Dark Magician Girl, destroy his monster!" Yugi declared his attack.

With that said the Dark Magician Girl pointed her wand staff at the Gemini Elf and destroyed the pair with a magical blast. Lance scoffed at this sight but he was relieved that no damage was inflicted to his life points. After all, that monster was in defense mode.

"It's a shame it was in defense mode. Ah well, I no longer had any use for it anymore," Lance shrugged. "So, you have anything else to offer on this turn?"

"No, that'll be the end of my turn," Yugi nodded in reply.

"Good, because I've drawn a card in my hand that I think you'll enjoy!" Lance declared as he laid down his card. "I activate The Dark Door!"

"The Dark Door?"

"Yes, with this card, both players can only attack with one monster during their respective battle phases!"

"I see, but it won't matter to me. I can still attack you with my Dark Magician Girl!"

"We'll see! I have monsters I want to try out on you in the first place!" Lance exclaimed. "By the way, that'll be the end of my turn!"

"Fine and since you've still got a facedown monster, I'll send my Dark Magician Girl to attack it! Go, Dark Magician Girl!"

Upon hearing Yugi's direct command, Dark Magician Girl pointed her magical staff and shot out a beam to destroy the facedown card in the process. The monster revealed was a blue-haired fairy wearing glasses and holding a book.

Hysteric Fairy

1800/500/4 stars

"With that complete, I end my turn," Yugi stated promptly. "It's a good thing I got rid of the Ring of Destruction earlier or I'd be in trouble."

"Seeing how you're done, I'm going to activate the card I've just drawn in my hand!" Lance laughed as he revealed the card called Monster Reborn.

"Monster Reborn!"

"That's right and you can guess which monster I'll be bringing back from my graveyard! That's right, behold the return of my beloved beast, JIRAI GUMO!" Lance cackled out as he laid down the specific monster card from out of his graveyard.

Yugi gasped out in shock as he witnessed the return of the giant tarantula. It was placed in a face-up attack position and ready to take a part Yugi's Dark Magician Girl. Needless to say, the cute little magician was slightly frightened. Lance's eyes widened into a sadistic manner with his tongue sticking out.

"YES! NOW, GO MY BEAST! ATTACK HIS LITTLE MAGICIAN WITH YOUR ACID SLUDGE!"

Before the spider launched out its acidic sludge, a holographic coin appeared in Lance's hand. He flipped it up and called for tails. Much to his satisfaction, he had called it right. It landed exactly on 'tails'.

"Ha! Finish her, my beast! Take her out with your ACID SLUDGE!"

As soon as the spider beast spat out its acidic sludge, Lance laughed out hysterically and anticipated the demise of the Dark Magician Girl. After this, he aimed at directly attacking the rest of Yugi's life points.

"IT'S ALL OVER, YUGI! I'VE WON THIS TOURNAMENT!"

But just as he thought he had the duel at the grasp of his hands, Yugi quickly smirked.

"Think again, Lance! With your attack, I retaliate by activating my trap card! This is your FINAL mistake, Lance!" Yugi declared. "The trap I activate is the Negate Attack!"

"WHAT! OH NO!"

Before the Acid Sludge even splattered against the Magician Girl, a barrier formed over her and stopped the sludge. Dark Magician Girl wiped her forehead and sighed in relief. Had she been destroyed, Yugi would have been vulnerable to an attack next turn.

"NO! Why was I so stupid to think you wouldn't have a trap card! Damn it!" Lance cursed out. "I was so close! If wasn't for his trap, I could have destroyed his Magician Girl and wiped out the rest of his life points! So, this is the legendary Yugi Muto? Am I just not good enough? Have I truly failed you, Lord Pharaohmon?"

"Seeing how your turn has ended, I predict that victory will at last be at hand... For me that is."

"You're bluffing! You don't have anything that can save your hide! Remember, you can't use your God Cards!"

"Humph, who said I was even going to use my God Cards? No, but I am going to summon a monster you should become familiar with. Now, I'll start off by activating Change of Heart! I'll use this card to select and control of anyone of your monsters. Since you only have one monster on the field, I choose your Jirai Gumo, your favorite monster!"

"WHAT! NO! YOU CAN'T!"

"I'm afraid I can!"

"DON'T! PLEASE DON'T DO IT!"

"It's too late for you, Lance!" Yugi exclaimed. "Now, come forth Jirai Gumo!"

As the tarantula phased over to Yugi's side field, Lance's mouth dropped and he called back to his monster. Despite his pleas, the spider remained on Yugi's side. What was the Pharaoh aiming to accomplish? He was prepared to demonstrate this on this specific turn.

"Now, Lance, your about to meet MY favorite monster! First, I'll sacrifice both my Dark Magician Girl and your Jirai Gumo! With these two great sacrifices, I will summon forth and introduce you to the Dark Magician!"

"WHAT! NO! NOT HIM!" Lance exclaimed and began to step back with a widened mouth. "Not the Dark Magician!"

Taking the place of the two monsters was the even more powerful and famed monster. Yugi's signature monster appeared before Lance in all of his glory. Garbed in a purple magician's outfit and wielding a magical staff, the Dark Magician glared down at Lance with cold, blue eyes. The possessed teen backed away and gulped.

Dark Magician

2500/2100/7 stars

"Lord Pharaohmon, please help me!" Lance called out. "I need your help! I can't win alone!"

"Without Pharaohmon's shadow magic to protect you, you are nothing more than a frightened child, Lance! For everyone you have attempted to steal souls from, I will purify you of Pharaohmon's darkness! But first, I'll equip my Dark Magician with the Book of Secret Arts! With this magic card, the Magician's attack and defense power is increased by 300 points! He gains all the knowledge and prestige to become an even more experienced magician of the arts!"

Dark Magician

ATK: 2800 (2500 + 300)

DEF: 2400 (2100 + 300)

"NO! PLEASE! NO!" Lance screamed out. "I've failed! I'VE FAILED! Pharaohmon, forgive me! PLEASE!"

"Dark Magician, it's time we put an end to this madness! This is for everyone you have tormented, Lance! Be free of Pharaohmon's control! Dark Magician, blast away the rest of his life points with your DARK MAGIC ATTACK!"

Pointing his staff directly at Lance, the Dark Magician unleashed a powerful blast. Lance screamed out and flew back across the dueling field. He had LOST. Yugi has triumphed over the possessed puppet and won the Duel Tournament. It was not easy task and it was very difficult even for Yugi. This was his first real test for a long time without the God Cards. In fact, he still managed to come out with a victory without the Gods.

Lance

Life Points: 0 (2700-2800)

Slowly getting to his feet, Lance quivered out of shock and disbelief. He was just inches from clenching victory and then BAM! Just in one turn, Yugi was the difference maker and turned this whole duel around. Lance slammed his fists to the ground and hollered out in anger.

"How could I LOSE! How could I lose! This wasn't supposed to happen! Yugi must have cheated somehow! Lord Pharaohmon, please forgive me! Don't me angry with me!"

"For competing in a Shadow Game and losing, you must suffer the punishment! MIND CRUSH!" Yugi bellowed out and released the aura from his Millennium Puzzle. "Lance, with the magic of my Millennium Puzzle, I will set your mind free of Pharaohmon's corruption! Thus, today begins your freedom to a happier life! EVIL SPIRIT! BE GONE!"

Upon declaring this statement, the golden light of the puzzle slammed against Lance. The dark spirit of Pharaohmon's corruption was forced right out of the boy and materialized into the form of an afterimage. The afterimage of Lance shattered and left behind the REAL Lance Canebrook!

Yami Yugi let out a deep sigh of relief and looked down at Lance. The teen was catching his breath and holding his head.

"Wha... Where am I?" Lance wondered. "The last thing I remember, I was running out to get my mother's purse when a shriveled hand appeared out of nowhere!"

Before long, Lance looked up at the towering form of Yami Yugi. He slightly jumped back and pointed at him.

"Yu... Yugi Muto! The Yugi Muto? Hey, how did I get here?" Lance asked. "Please, tell me."

"Lance, what I'm about to tell you is a very long story. I doubt even you will believe it. I drove out the evil essence of Pharaohmon's dark magic," Yugi answered Lance. "You were forced to do Pharaohmon's evil bidding, including taking possession of your body. He used you as his puppet and forced you to duel in this tournament. You had made it this far into the finals against me and I won to keep possession of my puzzle."

"Huh? Whoa, is that what happened to me...? Oh, boy... I think I'm going to need some rest now," Lance fell to his knees and held his head before succumbing to unconsciousness.

"Lance!" Yugi rushed over to prevent the boy's fall. "He must be exhausted from having that evil spirit forced out of him. At least we managed to save him. That's all that matters. We've managed to win the Duel Tournament. Now, all that leaves is the source to all of this madness, Pharaohmon himself.

Once Yugi helped Lance by placing an arm around his neck, the shadow cloud around them dispersed. With the evil spirit planted inside Lance gone, the boy would no longer be of any use to Pharaohmon. One problem has now already been taken care of thanks in part to Yugi Muto and the Pharaoh.

Floramon gasped happily once she caught a glimpse of Yugi Muto. There was no doubt who had won this tournament and she was proud to announce this to broadcast.

"At long last, after two competitive days, I'm proud to announce OUR winnerof the Shadow Duel Tournament! The one, the only, Yugi Muto!" Floramon declared as she pointed to the victorious Yugi. "It was a tough and awesome duel, but Yugi managed to overcome this obstacle and ended Lance's winning streak! Give it up for our first Digital World Duel Monsters Champion!"

The digimon crowds that gathered to watch the duel in whole gave the King of Games a standing ovation. He had earned their respect by overcoming these many odds, including a grueling duel against Lance Canebrook. As promised, not only would he keep possession of his puzzle, but he successfully freed Lance from Pharaohmon's corruptive hand.

"Yugi! You did it! You've won!" Tea cheered out once she caught a glimpse of Yugi.

"Ha! Yeah! I knew you'd do it, buddy!" Joey exclaimed.

"Now that was a duel, Yugi!" Tristan exclaimed as he approached his friend.

"Those were some sweet dueling maneuvers you showed out there, Yugi!" Duke said.

With all of his friends gathering around to congratulate him, Seto Kaiba methodically walked over to where Yugi was standing. He glared down at the unconscious Lance and snorted.

"To think I actually lost to this kid," Kaiba scoffed. "Well, Yugi, I guess our duel has been put off for another time. Consider yourself lucky that it wasn't me you had to face in the finals."

"Hey, is that guy going to be all right?" Mokuba asked Yugi. "He doesn't look very well."

"He collapsed as soon as I drove the evil spirit out of him. We're going to need to take him inside to rest until this whole tournament concludes," Yugi stated until he had just come to the realization. "The tournament! That's it! Pharaohmon is competing as we speak!"

"That's right! They're already in the semi-finals and will be close to the finals soon," Mai nodded in reply.

"Plus Takato and the others are waiting for us," Joey reminded everyone. "Gallantmon's fighting Pharaohmon and I sure hope he's kicking his keister!"

"I'm afraid Gallantmon will be defeated shortly," the loud booming voice of Imperialdramon called out from above.

Everyone, in the group including Joey, looked up to find Imperialdramon Fighter Mode levitating over them. Joey, Tristan, Tea and Duke panicked as they caught a glimpse of the gigantic Dra-Warrior leader.

"Tapirmon, get a camera view of this!" Floramon called out to her cameraman. "In just a matter of moments since the duel's end, Imperialdramon graces us with his presence! Just what has he come here for..."

"I've received word that he dropped off a group of human females and several other allies that were seen with the Digital Priestess," Tapirmon informed Floramon.

"You're KIDDING me! The Digital Priestess is here!" Floramon gasped out in shock. "Where was she last seen?"

"In the arena as we speak! She was said to be around a group of human females in the crowds"

"Let's go and find her, Tapirmon! This is going to be the scoop of the digi-century! I'm going to get a big promotion if I can get one interview with the Digital Priestess!" Floramon raced off towards the entranceway.

"Hey, wait for me!" Tapirmon gave chase to her colleague.

Meanwhile, Imperialdramon had explained everything to Yugi and his team during the whole tirade with Floramon. Now they had become aware of the reason why there were sudden earthquakes and a bright purple column of light emerging from out of the stadium roof.

"So, Pharaohmon's already reached one hundred percent of his strength?" Yami Yugi repeated Imperialdramon. "So that explained the earthquake during the duel."

"Man, this creep is going too far! This is our chance to stop him!" Tristan growled while slamming his right fist against his left palm.

"If Gallantmon can't beat this guy, then who's left? Yugi? Is there anyone left?" Joey asked. "There's still Takuya and Kouji still left but what can they do to make a difference?"

Yami Yugi walked directly towards the stadium and glared directly at the entranceway. An idea ran through his mind and he instantly turned to Imperialdramon.

"Imperialdramon, I want you to take me inside the stadium!" the Pharaoh turned towards the massive dragon. "Joey, you take everyone else inside and meet with the others! I'm sure they'll be waiting at the entranceway!"

"Hold on, Yug! You don't mean that you're actually going to go in there with the fighting still going on!" Joey called out to his friend.

"Joey, please... I wouldn't be doing this if I didn't know what I will get myself into. Don't worry about me. You take everyone inside."

"All right then, Yug. You can count on me!" Joey smiled to the King of Games.

"Well, I know I won't be taking orders from a dog. Come on Mokuba, we'll be going in our own way," Seto Kaiba scoffed as he walked past Joey.

This only managed to infuriate Joey as he attempted to jump Kaiba. It wasn't long before Duke and Tristan restrained him from attacking Kaiba. Mai merely nodded her head in shame but couldn't help but smile.

"Oh, Joseph, you'll never change, kid," Mai chuckled.

However, unbeknownst to everyone, Bakura kneeled over the unconscious form of Lance and looked towards Yugi. A twisted smile crossed his face.

"So, Lance has fallen to the Pharaoh. No matter, I was actually expecting this boy to fail. Now it's only a matter of time before I take the Millennium Puzzle and once again begin my conquest to capture the other Millennium Items! MUHUHUHUHUHWAHAHAHAHA!"

"Hey, Bakura! Can you help carry Lance while you're at it?" Yugi asked Bakura.

"Sure, Yugi! Just leave him to me," Bakura returned back to reality and nodded in reply. "Feh, you're as foolish as ever, Pharaoh. I will be your end, Pharaoh. Just you wait and see!"

Yami Yugi jumped aboard on Imperialdramon's left hand and was lifted up. The King of Games watched as his friends fled inside the front entrance of the stadium. Seto Kaiba walked methodically with his brother. Then, finally, Bakura placed an arm around Lance to carry him inside. With every one of his friends inside, Yami Yugi gave a signal to Imperialdramon.

"I'm ready. Please, take me to an area where I can view the match up close and personal..."

"Well, there was a portion of the stadium destroyed by one of Gallantmon's attacks."

"I do recall the explosion during the duel."

"Yeah and he left a massive hole through the stadium. I think it's big enough for me to fit through in my Fighter Mode. I can get you inside where the action is red hot."

"Please and let's hurry."

"You got it. Hang on tight!"

With that said, Imperialdramon Fighter Mode flew around the large stadium while holding onto Yami Yugi in his hand. It would be a few moments before Yugi finds himself through the spot where Gallantmon had fired the blast through the wall.

"Pharaohmon has reached his full power. That is bad news in itself, Pharaoh. But it's good that we managed to defeat Lance and freed his mind."

"He'll be awake in no time, Yugi. I'd say give him an hour or so. I predict the tournament will be done by then. If Gallantmon cannot defeat Pharaohmon, our last hope comes from either Takuya or Kouji."

"But which one? That is the question. In any case, we have to get there before Pharaohmon destroys Gallantmon!"

-

---

Phoenix Arena/Duel and Battle Platforms

Back inside the stadium, the match had now taken a turn for the worst. Pharaohmon held Gallantmon up high over his head and dangled him like a piece of meat. Tilting his head with a sadistic grin, Pharaohmon delivered a punch into Gallantmon. In just one blow, he punched a hole right through Gallantmon's chest armor and sent him flying across the battlefield.

"NO! GALLANTMON!" Takato cried out

The Crimson knight plummeted against the ground and was left a battered mess by Pharaohmon's hand. Standing over the fallen knight in triumph and all of his glory, Pharaohmon raised his arms and unleashed a victorious roar. The audience masses were stunned beyond shocked belief at the sight of the towering demon. He had single-handedly mauled Gallantmon in a matter of seconds before the Crimson knight even had a chance to fight back.

"GALLANTMON!" the children cried out in unison.

"No! This can't be! Gallantmon, you have to get up! Please, get up!" Takato called out to his fallen digimon partner. "You can't be beaten like this!"

"As I had feared, even Gallantmon cannot hope to defeat Pharaohmon at top strength," Omegamon muttered. "Who in Goddramon's name can stop him now?"

"Takato!" Rika and Jeri called out to the goggle boy.

"It can't be over..." Takato fell down to his knees and his eyes widened at the horror of Gallantmon thoroughly beaten.

"Takato! Don't you even think about going out there or you'll become a target for Pharaohmon!" Jeri restrained the boy.

"Let me go!"

Himura stepped in and helped Jeri to hold the goggle head back. Takato struggled to break free and save his partner. They all watched in horror as Pharaohmon advanced closer towards the fallen Gallantmon. A sadistic grin formed across the demon's face as if he were preparing to deliver the finishing blow.

"Gallantmon has been taken out of the match while Pharaohmon stands triumphantly! One blow has knocked Gallantmon completely out!" Lillymon announced. "Etemon, now would be the perfect time to start the count!"

"Right... I'm on it," Etemon nervously gulped and slowly walked out of the announcers table. "Even I value my life more than my job for goodness sakes!"

Having seen enough, Agunimon charged right out of Arena B. However, Wolfmon was quick to stop him and held the Warrior of Flame back.

"Just what do you think you're doing, Agunimon!" Wolfmon exclaimed while restraining his friend.

"I can't let this continue! We called our fight for a reason and this is why! Gallantmon is on the verge of death and I doubt Pharaohmon cares! He's attempting to finish Gallantmon off while the knight is down and defenseless!"

"Yes, but what can you do to stop him? Even you alone can't challenge Pharaohmon!"

"But, I have to at least try...!"

"Um, I'll start the count now if you wish, Pharaohmon, sir..." Etemon stuttered out of fear as he neared the fallen Crimson knight.

"Do as you wish," Pharaohmon scoffed and turned away from the fallen Gallantmon. "He has disappointed me. I thought Gallantmon would present me the ultimate challenge and he failed to live up to his expectations. I would care less anymore..."

"As you wish..." Etemon gulped and started the countdown. "Gallantmon is down and not responding. I'll start the count! One! Two! Three! Four!"

"If Gallantmon doesn't get up, then it's up to either Takuya or Kouji," Bokomon sighed sadly. "After that, there will be nothing left to stop him."

"Oh yes there is!" Junpei exclaimed.

"I'll have to agree with Junpei on this one guys," the voice of Kouichi spoke out from behind them.

Everyone turned to find Kouichi walking out the entrance tunnel. Junpei spun around with a smirk on his face.

"So, you completely understand, huh, Kouichi?" Junpei replied to the boy.

"Everyone, what Junpei is trying to say is that we should form the only and one, Susanoomon! The Unified Warrior of Peace!" Kouichi announced to his fellow Warriors.

"Whoa, you're serious!" Tomoki exclaimed.

"You mean you're actually going to go for Susanoomon?" Omegamon exclaimed. "But that means... Takuya and Kouji would have called their match off. How is that going to be possible?"

"Well, seeing how Yugi won his duel, I'm willing to bet that we will have a say in the finals. Last I heard, the winner of the Duel Tournament would be granted a request to determine the finals of the tournament. He'll do something to have both Kouji and Takuya enter the final round," Izumi explained. "Junpei, you really managed to think this one through."

"It's our only last resort and there wasn't anyone else who can take Pharaohmon. Since Gallantmon is out of it, I figured this would be our only hope."

"And it will work," Jaarin nodded in agreement. "Right guys?"

"Yeah, no doubt about it," Vega replied. "Sam, Dimitro, and I are in agreement, too."

"All right then, children. If this is to be our final chance of defeating Pharaohmon, then I am all for it," Omegamon nodded in agreement. "Athenamon, what do you think?"

"Yes, anything to stop that madman once and for all," she nodded back in reply.

"All right, guys, then let's make this one count!" Izumi exclaimed. "Now, all we have to do is wait for Yugi to show up to lay down the stipulations!"

Meanwhile, back over towards the middle of the battlefield, Pharaohmon looked down at the fallen Gallantmon. The Royal Knight was completely out of it after that one devastating blow. Etemon was already down to eight. The audience booed the demon like there was no tomorrow, but they realized that there was little hope. Only Takuya and Kouji would remain to challenge Pharaohmon.

"...Eight! Nine! Ten!" Etemon called out and called for the bell. "Gallantmon was unable to answer the ten count and thus your winner is Pharaohmon! He now will meet the winner between Agunimon and Wolfmon!"

Takato pushed himself through his friends and ran over to his fallen partner's side. Pharaohmon quickly took notice of Takato's intrusion and grinned malevolently.

"My, my, isn't this touching? A Tamer cowering to his partner's side. Takato Matsuda, prepare yourself for oblivion!" Pharaohmon laughed as he raised his arm over his head.

As Pharaohmon reached down to grab Takato, the boy closed his eyes and held dearly onto Gallantmon. Before he was inches away from snaring the boy, a voice called out indirectly from the devastated hole created by Gallantmon earlier.

"STOP RIGHT THERE, PHARAOHMON!"

Once Pharaohmon heard this familiar call, he instantly turned to find Agunimon and Wolfmon preparing to attack him head on. The demon merely knocked them aside with one hand and watched them land inside the ring within Arena B. Pharaohmon shifted his attention to notice a spiky-haired young boy walking out through the rubble. The Millennium Puzzle dimmed a bright golden aura and instantly caught Pharaohmon's undivided attention.

"In an unexpected twist of events, Yugi Muto, the winner of the Duel Tournament, has arrived to stop Pharaohmon! Just what does Yugi have in mind? He wouldn't be as crazy to challenge this powered-up monster?"

"All right, it's about time, Yugi!" Takato exclaimed. "I knew you would win!"

"Whew and just in time, too," Agunimon let out a sigh of relief.

"'Step into my web', said the spider to the fly. Yugi Muto, I must say congratulations on your victory over my puppet, Lance. Though, in all honesty, I had no more use for him. Now that I have reached my on hundred percent power, there's nothing that can touch me! Not even your three God monsters can save you!" Pharaohmon gloated and held his glowing fists. "So, have you come here to gawk and bow to your new ruler?"

"No..."

"No, you say?"

"That's right, Pharaohmon. You haven't won this tournament..."

"...Yet."

"You haven't won yet. You have to compete in the finals but you have no idea who your opponent will be."

"Either Takuya or Kouji, but after what I've just done to Gallantmon, I doubt either of them can stand up against me. I'll crush whoever comes next."

"Who even said you'd be facing either one of them, Pharaohmon? Mind I suggest you face both?"

"Both? How is that possible? Only either one of them can win. Seeing how there are still in the ring, I have to await the winner."

"Ah, but did you forget? The winner of the Duel Tournament can decide the outcome of the finals?"

"Get to the point."

"Seeing how I've won the Duel Tournament, I can wish for the stipulations and anything to take place in the finals. As per my request, I want BOTH Takuya and Kouji to advance to the finals as co-winners! Their semi-final match is declared a draw, but they still will manage to advance. I heard you gloating how you wanted the ultimate challenge. Well, according to what Takuya has told me about the final battle with Lucemon, I overheard the mention of a unified warrior of peace that slain the mighty Demon Lord!"

"Wait, you mean to tell me..."

"That's right, Pharaohmon! There is but one other warrior superior to Gallantmon in his Crimson Form! Allow me to be the one to introduce him to you! Takuya! Kouji! Legendary Warriors! It is time! Show him the unified power of all Ten Legendary Warriors!"

Upon hearing this, the audience let out a thunderous ovation and chanted in unison for the Legendary Warrior children. Wolfmon and Agunimon stood up to be praised by the crowds in the arena. They turned to find Izumi, Kouichi, Junpei, Tomoki, Jaarin, Vega, Dimitro and Sam holding up their D-Tectors.

"You guys... You don't mean to do this?" Wolfmon asked.

"Of course we do, Kouji, this is our last hope to defeat Pharaohmon once and for all," Kouichi nodded. "We're all behind you. Now, show Pharaohmon what the unified power of all the spirits are made of!"

"We believe in you," Izumi smiled.

"Kick some butt!" Tomoki exclaimed.

"This was my idea after all and I hope you two will put that to good use!" Junpei called out to the duo.

"Smash Pharaohmon to the ground and win one for the team!" Jaarin gave her support for the boys.

"Kick Pharaohmon's ass!" Vega gave a thumb up.

"Believe in yourselves!" Dimitro spoke out.

"Don't you let us down! We didn't sacrifice our spirits just for you to lose!" Sam shouted out.

"Don't worry guys. We won't let you down! Pharaohmon is in for a challenge!" Agunimon nodded to his friends. "You hear that, punk? You wanted the ultimate warrior to challenge your full powered strength? Well, you're about to receive him!"

"Prepare yourself to become extinguished by our light!" Wolfmon declared.

"Let him have it, guys!" Takato called out. "Do it for Gallantmon and all of us!"

"IT'S TIME LEGENDARY WARRIORS! LET HIM HAVE IT!" Yugi bellowed out.

"In a major twist of events, Yugi has declared that the unified spirits of the TEN WARRIORS are to merge together!" Lillymon announced for everyone to hear. "Could we actually be seeing the same Unified warrior that defeated Lucemon! This is going to be a fight for the ages!"

"It's time!" Agunimon and Wolfmon exclaimed in unison with their D-Scanners held up.

Suddenly, Pharaohmon had heard enough of this and instantly became engulfed by his demonic aura. He would dispatch of both Agunimon and Wolfmon quickly before they attempt to call forth all of the spirits.

"I'LL STOP YOU!" Pharaohmon exclaimed and charged forward.

Unfortunately, for the dark lord, the two warriors emitted a unified aura of orange and blue light. The light blinded Pharaohmon and caught him completely off guard. Next, each of the D-Scanners from the Digi-Destined children merged with the primary warrior duo. The Spirits of Wind, Thunder, Darkness, Ice, Earth, Water, Metal and Wood all came together. They gathered around both Agunimon and Wolfmon. Then, with a unified cry, the boys called out for their ascension to the ancient warrior himself!

-

"EXECUTE! ANCIENT SPIRIT EVOLUTION!"

The Phoenix Arena was awe struck by the massive column of light that engulfed the two warriors. All of the spirits merged together to construct a juggernaut of power and nobility. What everyone was prepared to witness was the rise of the unified warrior who brought about Lucemon's defeat. Now Pharaohmon would be next.

An astonished look crossed Pharaohmon's face once he was getting a glimpse of the one warrior that could present him the ultimate challenge. Could Susanoomon really be the one digimon that can push him beyond his limits? There was only one way to find out.

The Tamers, the digimon, the Spirit Detectives, the Sailor Senshi and the Dra-Warriors all watched the sequence of events unfold. Even more impressed was the Digital Priestess. Perhaps she won't be needed after all.

"Incredible! So, this is the power of all of the Legendary Warriors? I just might not be needed for this after all. On the other hand, if Susanoomon, god forbid, fails, then it will be time for me to step in," Cammy said in thought as she kept an eye on the unified warrior's ascension.

"Pluto, is it possible for this unified warrior to defeat Pharaohmon? I mean there's no way he can win, right?" Sailor Venus asked.

"Let's hope he triumphs, Venus. This just maybe our last shot besides the Digital Priestess," the Guardian of Time responded.

Yami Yugi shielded his eyes from the dimming bright aura and smiled at the sight.

"This was a brilliant idea, Pharaoh! Now Pharaohmon will have an even more difficult fight at his hands! Let's see if he can overcome this!" Yugi said to his 'Yami' as he witnessed the whole evolution of the ultimate spirit warrior. "Alas, but we must be cautious. I doubt we've seen ALL of Pharaohmon's power."

The ten spirit warriors of legend transformed into pillars of light and united together to combine themselves. They were then pulled into a single column of light and merged into one body. The new body grew into titanic proportions and stood tall. The twenty spirits encircled the body and dispersed across the body form.

Magna Garurumon's head attached itself onto the form's right hand. More pieces of armor attached themselves onto the legs and along came Kaiser Greymon's head attaching to the left hand. As soon as his body was covered by dark red armor with yellow stripes scattered across, the head forms. A helmet-like crown forms at the top of its head with a symbol. A mouth mask covers its lower face and a pair of eyes opened to get a view of its enemy. His lower waist was covered by a blue armor as was his feet. A pair of black glove hands came sprouting out from the heads. The transformation came to an end once a circular ring attached itself on the titan's back. The warrior finally exposes itself and completes its evolution. The unified spirit warrior lets out a cry as he calls out his official name.

"SUSANOOMON!"

(Susanoomon. Final/Mega-Level. God Man Digimon. Special Attacks: Celestial Blade and Heaven's Thunder)

The whole arena was awe struck by the appearance of Susanoomon, the unified Warrior of Peace. Every hero was stunned and astonished by the power flowing through his body. Pharaohmon looked up with great interest with a grin crossing his face. He was even more anxious than before his battle with Gallantmon earlier. Could this be the one digimon to push him to his limits?

"OH MY GODDRAMON! I NEVER THOUGHT I'D BE SEEING MIRACLES, BUT THIS ONE TOPS THEM ALL! SUSANOOMON HAS ARISEN!" Lillymon screamed out at the top of her lungs.

"So, could you be the warrior to finally challenge me at my top strength?" Pharaohmon whispered to himself. "At long last, a worthy opponent..."

"I don't know, but you will soon realize that this is not a game, Pharaohmon! The finals start now!" Susanoomon declared and clenched his fists tightly. "IT ENDS HERE, PHARAOHMON!"

"Let's hope to Goddramon that will be the final chapter to Pharaohmon's nightmarish legacy," Omegamon thought.

-

At long last, the finals have arrived! Despite putting up a great resistance, Gallantmon has fallen. Pharaohmon has revealed his one hundred percent powered form and appeared to be dominant for a while.

That is until Yugi arrived, fresh off his victory over Lance, and declared a stipulation for the finals. He has ruled that both Takuya and Kouji are to battle Pharaohmon in the finals, but rather than two on one... The other Digi-Destined sacrificed their spirits for Takuya and Kouji! Susanoomon has arisen and is set to challenge Pharaohmon in the finals! Can the two worlds be saved by Susanoomon just they did when he defeated Lucemon?

And what about the arrival of the Digital Priestess? With the return of the Sailor Senshi, Cammy seeks to become a difference maker in the event. Can she hope to stop Pharaohmon in case all fails?

Everything all comes to a head in the finals of the Shadow Tournament, where anything can happen! Don't miss out on the action!

-

---

(PREVIEW)

Cammy: Greetings all, I am the Digital Priestess. The finals are underway and it's up to Susanoomon to stop the madness of Pharaohmon. Can the Unified Warrior hope to crush the monster's destructive terror before the two worlds become his new kingdom?

Susanoomon: Pharaohmon, it ends here!

Pharaohmon: You will not deny me my destiny! I shall become king of the two worlds!

Cammy: No, but I can deny you your destiny, Pharaohmon!

Yugi, the Tamers and everyone else: It's the Digital Priestess!

Pharaohmon: YOU! It can't be! You can't be alive!

Gallantmon: What is this? Priestess? How are you able to speak to me telepathically?

Cammy: I cannot defeat Pharaohmon with just the sword alone. I will need to inhabit the body of a digimon through a bio-mergence if I want to tap into the full powers of this sword.

Takato: Then, you have my permission to use Gallantmon's body, Priestess!

Yusuke: You don't want to miss this mind-blowing finale to the Shadow Tournament! There are only two more chapters left until then series' conclusion!

Himura: The next chapter is entitled...

The Shadow Tournament's Explosive Conclusion! The Priestess' Last Wish!

Takato: Has the nightmare truly ended?

Sailor Mars: Let us hope so...

-

---

That ends another exciting chapter. The semi-finals are complete with Pharaohmon victorious and the Agunimon/Wolfmon match declared a draw! Susanoomon makes his appearance and it looks like all out war will occur in the final chapter of the Shadow Tournament, but it will not be the final chapter of the series. I hope each and every one of you are ready to see the eventual demise of Pharaohmon (it's been long overdue if you ask me). :D

Big ups to LazerWulf for beta-reading this chapter, providing me the Lance-Yugi duel, the dialogue explaining Yugi canceling out Lance's Shadow Game, and the set-up for the entire tournament. I couldn't have that without your help. Thanks to Ninetalesuk for lending me his characters: Luzdramon, Panzerdramon, Herodramon, Ninjadramon, Espritdramon and Kyodaidramon. Big thanks to Belletiger for supporting this series. :D

As I've stated earlier, the whole fight scene between Loweemon and Duskmon was greatly inspired from the same fight in Ninetalesuk's series The Revival of Valmarmon. If you don't believe me, then check it out. This fight is just for you, Ninetales! ;)

Here's a shout out to each of you. You guys helped me to continue this series. Now, the future for the sequel has been set in stone and looks to have a promising future. Now, we will see whether this first series will end on a popular note and spark enough interest for a sequel. It's up to you if you want to see the sequel. I'll be more than happy to provide. More details on the sequel in the next chapter and the last one.

Until then, peace. :D