This story was done in collaboration between me, Jriddle41 (Sodormatchmaker on DeviantART), and DaveMan1000 (both here and on DeviantART), and we own the OCs that are used in the story. Everything else belongs to their respective owners:

Thomas and Friends (c) Hit Entertainment and Mattel

The Railway Series (c) Rev Wilbert Awdry

Yu-Gi-Oh! (c) Konami

NOTE 1: This is a single chapter story focused on the character Matt Fudo, Michael Atlas, Carlie Izayoi, James R. Hogan, and Zack Ruaka, who, along with the OCs David Xadashi and Lisa Drake belonging to DaveMan1000, will serve as the main characters of a spin-off story set after the main story is finished.

NOTE 2: This new story is rated K10 for mild violence and some brief mild language.


Title: Ready, Set, Duel!

It was a sunny Spring afternoon in 'San Francisco - California', and a special event was being held in the official Turbo Duel stadium of the city.

"Now, for today's main Turbo Duel!" The voice of a Master of Ceremony (MC) announced, "Here he comes! Everybody, listen… The King of Turbo Duels has been challenged by a popular Turbo Duel competitor from Oakland by the name of Ursula Nasuwari!"

Down on the race track, a young woman with black hair was seated on her Duel Runner, awaiting for her opponent to show up.

"Here he comes, everyone!" The MC went on. He then pointed towards the champion's doorway, "Michael Atlas!"

All of a sudden… bursting from the doorway on Wheel of Fortune was none other than Michael Atlas (20), who, with a confident smile on his face, ready to show his latest challenger what it meant to be a Turbo Duelist. Wheel of Fortune leaped off the nearby ramp into the air. The audience, meanwhile, was cheering like crazy. Soon, Wheel of Fortune landed on the road in the center of the stadium as it began its sole lap around the track. It was also then Michael began addressing the cheering audience…

"Sorry to keep you all waiting!" he announced, "I am the King!"

Before long, Wheel of Fortune completed its lap and stopped near the Duel Runner of Ursula Nasuwari, who was eager to see her opponent because she was ready to crush him and become the Queen of Turbo Duelists.

"You know, I've been waiting for a long time for this day, King!" remarked Ursula snidely.

"So you have," scoffed Michael, "But do you got what it takes to beat me?"

"That's what I'm here to find out! I've won over one hundred and forty two duels to get myself to this point," continued Ursula, "You will be my one hundred and forty third win!"

Michael just frowned. From there, both duelists revved their Duel Runners lined up at the starting line. With autopilot activated, both duelists can ride and duel at the same time.

"This is it! It's time for the Turbo Duel to begin!" The MC hollered excitedly, "Make sure all eyes are on this fateful showdown!"

The audience cheered, waiting for the timer to tick to zero so that the duel could commence.

"You all know the rules; the first one to get ahead around the corner of the track gets to go first!" The voice of the MC reminded, just as the ticking got closer and closer to zero, "Are you ready? Turbo Duel! Acceleration!"

The ticks ran out, and the two Duel Runners started to move. As the two dueling vehicles reached the corner, Wheel of Fortune pulled ahead of the challenger.

"As expected, the King goes first!" The voice of the MC announced.

"So be it…" thought Ursula, "This will allow me to coax him out his shell a little bit," She spoke aloud, "Go ahead, King! I'll let you have the first turn! Now, let's go!"

"Hmph!" huffed Michael, before turning his attention to his drawn card, "Draw!"


Turn One: Michael Atlas (LP: 4000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Red Nova", "Synchronized Realm", "Damage Rebound", "Red Gargoyle", "Resonator Command", and "Crimson Fire"


He drew a Trap Card called 'Crimson Fire', which he added into his hand. His hand also contained 'Red Nova', 'Synchronized Realm', 'Damage Rebound', 'Red Gargoyle', and 'Resonator Command'.

"From my hand," began Michael, placing a card ('Red Gargoyle') into a Monster Zone on his Duel Disk, "I'll Special Summon 'Red Gargoyle' in Attack Position!"

Appearing onto the field was, as named, a red gargoyle monster with some fire coming off its body (Level: 4/ATK: 1200/DEF: 1400).

"If I control no monsters, I can Special Summon this card (from my hand)," explained Michael, before placing another card onto his Duel Disk, "Next, I'll Normal Summon 'Red Nova'!"

Appearing onto the field was a red-colored fairy (Level: 1/ATK: 0/DEF: 0).

"Next, I'll activate 'Red Gargoyle's monster effect! If another 'Red' monster(s) is Normal or Special Summoned to my field: I can make the Level of that monster(s) become double its current Level."

'Red Nova's' Level went slightly up (Level: 1 → 2).

"Level 2… and Level 4…" worried Ursula, "Is it coming this soon?"

Unfortunately so… but first…

"Continuous Spell, 'Synchronized Realm', activate!" announced Michael, just as a Spell Card called 'Synchronized Realm' materialized face-up on the field beside him (on his right), "Each time I Synchro Summon a Synchro Monster, I must inflict 500 damage to my opponent."

"500 damage…" muttered Ursula.

"And now, I tune Level 4 'Red Gargoyle' into Level 2 'Red Nova'!" continued Michael.

'Red Nova' turned herself into two Synchro Rings, as 'Red Gargoyle' soared into the Synchro Rings and turned into four orbs of light while Michael began a Summon Chant…

"The crimson souls shall become one. All shall tremble before the ruler's might!" chanted Michael, as the symbols 4 + 2 = 6 were shown just before an explosion of fire erupted from the glowing orbs within the Synchro Rings from up above him, "Synchro Summon! Appear, 'Red Wyvern'!"

Emerging from the fading blaze of flame and onto the field, was a large, brown dragon-like monster with the tips of both wings blazing like fire. Some parts of its body were colored red, and it had flaming-like hair (Level: 6/ATK: 2400/DEF: 2000).

"And there it is!" The voice of the MC cheered, as the crowd in the stands all roared over seeing 'Red Wyvern', "The King's 'Red Wyvern'! Truly a powerful obstacle for many a challenger! And there's also the permanent threat of his Continuous Spell, 'Synchronized Realm'!"

He was right… Back in the speeding duel field, Michael's face-up 'Synchronized Realm' Spell Card, because he Synchro Summoned a monster, activated.

"Accept the honor of being dealt 500 damage in the presence of the King!" taunted Michael, "'Synchronized Realm', open fire!"

The face-up 'Synchronized Realm' Spell Card fired a blast of fire at Ursula's Duel Runner, striking it and causing its rider to cry out as her LP dropped slightly (LP: 4000 → 3500). Not being done (just yet), Michael, readied two cards in his right and slotted them into his Duel Disk at the same time.

"Finally, I'll Set two cards face-down…" As he spoke, two face-down cards materialized around him on the field before fading away for later use, "…and end my turn!"

"Such arrogance!" thought Ursula, "But that's something that will get you into trouble one of these days, King!" She then drew a card, "It's my turn, King!"


Turn Two: Ursula Nasuwari (LP: 3500)
Deck: 34
Current Hand (6): "Magic Cylinder", "Road Raven Renegade", "Synchro Ejection", "Road Raven Red Queen", "Vengeful Servant", and "Back-Up Rider"


As Ursula's Duel Runner slowly caught up with Wheel of Fortune, Ursula herself noticed that her drawn card was a Monster Card called 'Back-Up Rider'.

"Now then, King… Let's see you deal with this!" requested Ursula, adding her drawn card into her hand and selecting another card, "I Summon 'Road Raven Renegade'!"

Appearing onto the field was a female-looking monster with long black hair, but her lower body was similar to a motorcycle of sorts (Level: 4/ATK: 1400/DEF: 1000).

"And like your 'Red Gargoyle', 'Road Raven Renegade' has an effect!" continued Ursula, "If only my opponent controls a monster, I can Special Summon this card (from my hand). However, I have another use for this monster."

'Road Raven Renegade' faded away in a blue streak, which allowed for a new female-looking monster with blonde hair and standing on a deadly-looking motorcycle to appear on the field instead (Level: 6/ATK: 2000/DEF: 2000).

"Instead, I'll offer 'Road Raven Renegade' as a Tribute in order to Tribute Summon 'Road Raven Red Queen'!" exclaimed Ursula, "This monster is going to give me the victory over you!"

"Give you victory?" pondered Michael.

"Correct! Allow me introduce you to 'Red Queen's' special ability!" requested Ursula, "Once per turn: I can target any number of monsters my opponent controls; until the end of this turn, I must take control of them, also their ATK become 100."

Michael frowned, "So, using your monster to take control of 'Red Wyvern', you'll leave me open to an attack," he said quietly, "Now I see…"

"I use my monster's effect to steal your 'Red Wyvern' for my own use!" laughed Ursula, "Sure, its ATK will drop to all the way to 100, but it's a small price to pay!"

'Road Raven Red Queen' held her hands out, causing 'Red Wyvern' to turn over to Ursula's field, also causing its ATK to drop all the way to 100 (ATK: 2400 → 100).

"However, it won't remain this weak for much longer," continued Ursula, holding out another card, "Spell Card, 'Back-Up Rider', activate!"

The mentioned Spell Card materialized face-up on the field beside her (on her right).

"I must target 1 face-up monster on the field; it gains 1500 ATK until the end of this turn."

"Oh my!" The voice of the MC freaked out, as the stolen 'Red Wyvern's' ATK increased a little bit (ATK: 100 → 1600), "The King's 'Red Wyvern' had its ATK raised a little bit! And with his field empty, the King is going to be attacked all the way to 400 LP!"

"Oh, if only things were that easy," Ursula said to herself, entering the Battle Phase, "Battle! 'Red Wyvern', attack the opposing player directly!"

'Red Wyvern' obeyed, flapping its wings and sending a stream of fire towards Wheel of Fortune. Despite getting hit by the attack, Michael did not flinch or react one bit as his LP took a drop (LP: 4000 → 2400).

"But wait, there's more!" jeered Ursula, "I'll use 'Road Raven Red Queen' to also attack you directly!"

'Road Raven Red Queen' cackled, as her motorcycle started charging towards Wheel of Fortune while leaving a trail of fire behind. At some point, the whole monster turned into a stream of fire, striking Wheel of Fortune.

"With that attack your LP will go down to a measly 400!" boasted Ursula.

Again, even as his LP fell to really low levels, Michael did not look worried whatsoever (LP: 2400 → 400).

"Since my Battle Phase has ended, I'll begin my Main Phase 2!" As Ursula spoke, she slotted a card into her Duel Runner, "From my hand, I'll activate an Equip Spell!"

Materializing face-up on the field in front of Ursula's Duel Runner was a Spell Card called…

"'Vengeful Servant'! When control of the equipped monster changes; I must inflict damage equal to its original ATK to its new controller."

"Hmph! A worthless trick!" grunted Michael.

"A worthless trick, huh? Don't underestimate it, King!" warned Ursula, "Once 'Red Wyvern' returns to you, you'll take damage equal to its ATK! It will be enough to wipe out the remains of your LP!"

"Just try it then!" dared Michael.

Before anything else could be done, two face-down cards materialized around Ursula's Duel Runner on the field before fading away for later use.

"I Set two cards face-down and end my turn!" announced Ursula, "That means the effect of 'Vengeful Servant' activates!" She pointed at her opponent, "King, you will regain your 'Red Wyvern' once 'Road Raven Red Queen's' effect ends, but you will also take damage equal to its original ATK, which is 2400!"

As expected, 'Red Wyvern' was released from 'Road Raven Red Queen's' control and returned to Michael's field.

"With 'Red Wyvern' back in your control, its ATK returns to its original amount," reminded Ursula, as 'Red Wyvern's' ATK returned to its default amount (ATK: 100 → 2400), "Now, I think it's time for you to take your 2400 damage!"

"Oh my goodness!" panicked the MC, occasionally using his right hand to cover his eyes, "Could this be the end of the King?! Unless he does something before he takes damage, he will be defeated!"

The audience remained in suspense, wondering if this was the end of Michael's undefeated streak? Back in the race track, Ursula looked like she was about to win the duel.

"It's time, King!" she declared, "You're about to take 2400 damage! And with 400 LP left, this attack will finish you off! I bet you're starting to wish the default 8000 LP rule was still around, aren't you?"

"Hmph! I have to disagree with you there," dismissed Michael, causing Ursula to ease up slightly, "The King isn't foolish enough to let you pull off a stunt like this! The King must always be prepared for such tactics!"

"W-What are you saying?!" demanded Ursula.

"Allow me to show you!" offered Michael, just as one of his Set cards reappeared on the field, flipped face-up, and revealed itself, "Counter Trap, 'Damage Rebound'! When an effect that would inflict damage to a player(s) is activated: That damage becomes 0, and, if it does, my opponent shuffles 1 face-up card they control into the Deck, then, if that card was a monster on the field, I must inflict damage to my opponent equal to its ATK on the field."

"What the hell?!" panicked Ursula.

"That's right, you won't be touching me, the King, like that again," acknowledged Michael, "Now, you must shuffle a face-up card on your field into your Deck."

Well, that was a small problem Ursula had on the go, and she knew it well.

"If I shuffle 'Road Raven Red Queen' into my Deck, I'll take 2000 damage," thought Ursula, "Of course, I'd have to be dumb to do something like that," She spoke aloud, "I will shuffle my 'Vengeful Servant' back into my Deck!"

The face-up 'Vengeful Servant' Spell Card dissolved into blue particles as Ursula shuffled her card back into her Deck.

"Alright, King!" she yelled out, "Because my turn is now over, you can take yours!"

"Very well!" declared Michael, drawing a card, "Let's kick this Turbo Duel into overdrive!"


Turn Three: Michael Atlas (LP: 400)
Deck: 53
Current Hand (2): "Resonator Command" and "Red Resonator"


His drawn card was the 'Red Resonator' Monster Card, which he stared at neutrally for a few seconds.

"I've got you, now!" Ursula suddenly interrupted, just as her first Set card reappeared on the field beside her, flipped face-up, and revealed itself, "Face-down card, open! 'Synchro Ejection', activate!"

Over with the MC (again)…

"Oh no!" wailed the MC, "This is very bad for the King! 'Synchro Ejection' lets Ursula target a face-up Synchro Monster her opponent controls and banish it!"

Back on the race track…

"That's right, King!" confirmed Ursula, having overheard the card explanation, "I'm going to target your 'Red Wyvern' and remove it from play!"

"I would prefer the phrase 'banish it', but whatever suits your needs," retorted Michael.

Meanwhile, the face-up 'Synchro Ejection' Trap Card fired a beam of light at 'Red Wyvern', striking and causing the Dragon Synchro Monster to shatter into shards of glass.

"'Red Wyvern' has been destroyed!" taunted Ursula, "But it's not all bad news! My opponent, that's you, gets to draw a card."

And so, Michael drew a card, noticing it to be the 'Synchro Blast Wave' Spell Card. Despite his current situation, the lime green-haired young man was always a step ahead of his opponents. Like so…

"I activate the Spell Card, 'Resonator Command'!" announced Michael, placing a card onto his Duel Disk. This caused the mentioned Spell Card to materialize face-up on the field beside him, "I must discard 1 'Resonator' monster; I must add 1 Level 4 or lower Fiend monster from my Deck to my hand. I can only activate 1 'Resonator Command' per turn."

"Discard a 'Resonator' monster?" repeated Ursula, before realizing something important, "You have one such monster in your hand, don't you?!"

Michael smirked, "I do," he confirmed, holding a card ('Red Resonator') out before sending it to his GY, "I'll discard 'Red Resonator' to add a Level 4 or lower Fiend monster into my hand."

A card ejected from the middle of the Deck, and Michael took it without hesitation. It was a Monster Card called 'Red Sprinter'; a perfect start to leading Ursula to her defeat.

"I Summon a monster in Attack Position!" yelled Michael, before placing his card onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Disk, "Come, 'Red Sprinter'!"

Appearing on the field was a demonic-looking horse with a mane and tail that looked like they were made of fire (Level: 4/ATK: 1700/DEF: 1200).

"When this card is Normal or Special Summoned while I control no other monsters: I can Special Summon 1 Level 3 or lower Fiend Tuner from my hand or GY," explained Michael, taking a card ('Red Resonator') from his GY and readying it, "I can only use this effect of 'Red Sprinter' once per turn."

"Fiend Tuner?!" gasped Ursula, "It can't be! You're going to target the 'Red Resonator' now in your GY, aren't you?"

"You catch on quickly," remarked Michael, placing his card onto his Duel Disk, "Appear, 'Red Resonator'!"

Appearing onto the field was the familiar-looking 'Resonator' with fiery features (Level: 2/ATK: 600/DEF: 200).

"With its appearance, I'll activate 'Red Resonator's' second effect!" continued Michael, "When this card is Special Summoned: I can target 1 face-up monster on the field; I must gain LP equal to its ATK."

'Road Raven Red Queen' started glowing red.

"I'll target 'Road Raven Red Queen', therefore boosting my LP by 2000!"

Ursula watched helplessly as her opponent regained most of the LP he lost during her turn (LP: 400 → 2400). Unfortunately for her, Michael was far from being done…

"And now," he went on, "I tune Level 4 'Red Sprinter' into Level 2 'Red Resonator'!"

'Red Resonator' turned itself into two Synchro Rings, and 'Red Sprinter' dove into them before turning into four orbs of light. A Summon Chant also followed…

"Crimson Dragon, light up the path that calls upon the flaming demon!" chanted Michael, as the symbols 4 + 2 = 6 appeared briefly before the orbs of light within the two Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Come forth, 'Red Rising Dragon'!"

Appearing from the beam of light and soon flying above Wheel of Fortune, was what looked to be a smaller, weaker-but still powerful, version of 'Red Dragon Archfiend' (Level: 6/ATK: 2100/DEF 1600). With another Synchro Summon, the effect of the face-up 'Synchronized Realm' Spell Card activated once more, causing Ursula and her Duel Runner both to get hit again (LP: 3500 → 3000).

"Next, the effect of 'Red Rising Dragon' activates!" declared Michael, "When this card is Synchro Summoned: I can target 1 'Resonator' monster in my GY; I must Special Summon it. I cannot Special Summon monsters from the Extra Deck the turn I activate this effect, except DARK Dragon Synchro Monsters," As he swing his right arm about, something started happening on the field, "Now, resurrect, 'Red Resonator'!"

As expected, 'Red Resonator' reappeared on the field (Level: 2/ATK: 600/DEF: 200).

"Fortunately for you, I can't use 'Red Resonator's' effect again, because I can only use it once per turn," smirked Michael, "Unfortunately for you, I can still do this…" He held his right hand up slightly as though it were a claw, "I tune Level 6 'Red Rising Dragon' into Level 2 'Red Resonator'!"

"WHAT?!" screeched Ursula.

"Allow me to show you my awesome might!" requested Michael, with what almost looked like an evil smile on his face.

Either way, with the command given, 'Red Resonator' hit the tuning fork with its baton. The vibrations then turned the Tuner monster into two Synchro Rings, which 'Red Rising Dragon' flew into. In addition, Michael began an extremely powerful-sounding Summon Chant…

"The ruler's heartbeats will now file through here! Take witness to its creation-shaking power!"

The symbols 6 + 2 = 8 were shown briefly as 'Red Rising Dragon' turned into six orbs of light within the Synchro Rings, which soon formed a massive beam of light. Soon enough, a new, yet familiar, monster began to emerge from said light column, claws first, then tail, then, finally, the rest of the body.

"Synchro Summon!" boomed Michael, "My very soul, 'Red Dragon Archfiend'!"

As the beam of light burst apart, flying above Wheel of Fortune was none other than the legendary 'Red Dragon Archfiend' itself, the signature monster of Michael Atlas (Level: 8/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2000).

"There it is!" The voice of MC cheered, "The King's ace monster! 'Red Dragon Archfiend'!"

Once again, the effect of the face-up 'Synchronized Realm' Spell Card activated, causing Ursula and her Duel Runner both to get hit a third time (LP: 3000 → 2500). Once she recovered, Ursula looked up at the newly Synchro Summoned 'Red Dragon Archfiend', almost like she was afraid of seeing it; she had been hoping to win before her opponent pulled it out, but was unfortunately unable to prevent it from appearing. Was there worse news? There sure was…

"I activate the Spell Card, 'Synchro Blast Wave'!" announced Michael, as the mentioned Spell Card materialized face-up on the field beside him (on his left), "If I control a Synchro Monster: I must target 1 monster my opponent controls; I must destroy that target."

A Synchro Ring materialized from the face-up 'Synchro Blast Wave' Spell Card before shooting a blast of energy at 'Road Raven Red Queen', striking and destroying her in a quick, painful death. Ursula and her Duel Runner both rocked about before the former regained control.

"My 'Road Raven Red Queen'-!" wailed Ursula.

"Battle!" exclaimed Michael, entering the Battle Phase. While announcing his monster to attack, 'Red Dragon Archfiend' made its right claw begin to catch on fire, "Go forth, 'Red Daemon's'! Absolute Powerforce!"

With its right fist covered in flames, 'Red Dragon Archfiend' let out a roar and slammed it onto the ground and sent out a wave of fire towards the enemy Duel Runner. Rather than look afraid, Ursula instead looked triumphant since this was what she had been waiting for to happening.

"Hey, King! I was waiting for this exact moment!" Ursula cried out, just as her final face-down card reappeared on the field in front of her Duel Runner, flipped face-up, and revealed itself, "I activate a Trap, 'Magic Cylinder'! When an opponent's monster declares an attack: I must target the attacking monster; I must negate the attack, and if I do, inflict damage to my opponent equal to its ATK!" She made her own claw-like gesture with her right hand, "Now accept the 3000 damage instead!"

Twin magical cylinders appeared from the face-up 'Magic Cylinder' Trap Card and onto the field, with one cylinder absorbing the flames that were coming towards Ursula. The second cylinder, once it had absorbed enough flames, then started firing back towards Wheel of Fortune.

"It's all over, King!" shouted Ursula, "Your undefeated record is about to be broken by yours truly!"

The audience watched in horror; was this truly the end of Michael Atlas, the King of Turbo Duelists? Even the MC fully covered his eyes, being unable to watch the end results. Oh, if only it were that easy to defeat Michael Atlas…

"This is the moment 'I' have been waiting for!" announced Michael, stunning everybody in the area into silence. He then made his final Set card reappear on the field beside him (on his left); it then flipped face-up and revealed itself, "Counter Trap, 'Crimson Fire', activate!"

The sight of the activated card caused Ursula to absolutely recoil. She then watched helplessly as the blast of redirected fire was quickly being absorbed by 'Red Dragon Archfiend'.

"When my opponent activates a Spell/Trap Card that would inflict damage to me, while I control a 'Red Dragon Archfiend': My opponent takes twice the effect damage I would have taken, instead," The voice of Michael explained, as 'Red Dragon Archfiend' continued absorbing the flames. He then smiled viciously again, "Consider this a thanks for entertaining me! I shall give you the honor of falling victim to my fangs! Take this!"

With that being said, Michael turned his Duel Runner towards his enemy (whilst still driving down the track), while 'Red Dragon Archfiend' stood tall as it flew into the sky while also beginning to charge flames of its own.

"Blazing Crimson Hell Flare!" The voice of Michael thundered.

'Red Dragon Archfiend' opened its mouth and the powerful, fiery blast was unleashed, striking and overwhelming Ursula's Duel Runner, resulting in her screaming in defeat as the last of her LP was wiped out (LP: 2500 → 0).


DUEL RESULTS: Michael Atlas wins!


As a result of the loss, the black-haired young woman's Duel Runner began emitting steam as it came to a complete stop.

"Dammit!" swore Ursula, taking off her helmet and hurling it onto the ground angrily.

"The King has successfully defended himself again!" The voice of the MC rejoiced, "Another page has been added to his undefeated record!"

The crowd and cheerleaders all cheered and chanted the name "Michael!" after witnessing the 'King' defend himself and his record once again. From there, Michael, still riding Wheel of Fortune, began to do a lap around the track in triumph. As his victory lap was about to end, he then addressed the cheering audience…

"Who's the Master of Faster? Who rules the Duel? That's right, it's me, Michael Atlas!" announced Michael, pointing into the sky, "The one true King of Turbo Duelists!"

And the crowd in the stadium continued with the cheering. Even though he wasn't North America's champion anymore and hasn't been for a few years now, Michael was still widely seen as one of THE best duelists in all of North America. In fact, he was one of the very few capable of going toe-to-toe with the champion himself on equal footing. Now then, speaking of the champion…

(elsewhere…)

Inside the mansion of Discord J. Crawford, Matt Fudo (20), James R. Hogan (19), Carlie Izayoi (19), and Zack Ruaka (21) all were in the living room watching the interview Michael was giving after winning his duel.

"It seemed like you were getting tossed around by the challenger's trap in the start of things," The image of MC on TV was saying, "but you managed to stay two, even three moves ahead, am I right?"

"Oh, that guy shouldn't have said something like that," sighed Zack, rolling his eyes.

As expected, the image of Michael took the microphone from the MC and addressed the cameras.

"If a King went all out right at the start, it'd be over in a second!" bragged the image of Michael, "The King's dueling must be entertainment for all!"

It was then James R. turned the TV off, shaking his head with annoyance.

"Guys, I like him," The brown-haired young man was saying, "but sometimes he can be so… so…"

"…like Spencer?" pondered Carlie.

"Almost as bad as Spencer!" groaned James R., sitting back down on the couch.

"Well, just remember that Mike has the skill to back his boasting up," reminded Matt.

"I know, I know…"

"In any case, it gets annoying really quickly," grunted Zack.

"Too true," agreed Carlie, "Although you could say that it's a reason why he's our friend."

Matt nodded in agreement, before standing up and stretching his arms out.

"Are you going out somewhere?" asked Zack.

"Yeah," replied Matt, "I'm going to grab some dinner from one of those burger joints. Do you guys want anything?"

"Here!" exclaimed James R., looking eager to get something from a burger joint.

Matt chuckled, "Obviously," he remarked, and then looked over to both Carlie and Zack, "How about you two?"

"Why not?" shrugged Zack.

"Sure," accepted Carlie.

With that confirmed, Matt was going to pick up dinner for him and his friends.

(elsewhere…)

Outside in the city, Matt was driving down streets on his personal Duel Runner, Fudo Go. He had stopped by one of the burger joints and picked up dinner, but he was in no real rush to return to Discord's mansion. In fact, the dirty blonde-haired young man decided to go out for a short drive around the city before going back home.

"The Spring weather feels great," thought Matt, smiling a little bit, "It's also been said that the weather for this Summer will be the best yet."

Later as he waited at a traffic light, Matt started to hear some voices…

"S-Stop it! Please, leave me alone!" The voice of a young boy cried out.

"You stole that thing, kid! It means you're a criminal in our eyes!" The gruff voice of an older male pointed.

Matt looked up, realizing there was trouble coming from somewhere.

(elsewhere…)

Within a nearby alleyway, a young boy of 10-years old and with reddish blonde hair was cornered by some members of the police force.

"I never stole anything!" The young boy protested, "It was just lying on the ground in broad daylight."

"That's what they 'all' say," One of the police officers huffed in response, "Kids these days; they show no respect to society. I swear that if parents actually did their jobs properly, their kids would turn out better."

"You can say that again," A second police officer agreed.

"Enough!" The lead officer, by the name of Paul Truman, interrupted, approaching and grabbing the child's arm, "It looks like you're coming with us to the station for a long talk. No doubt your parents will be very displeased when they hear what you did."

"No! Please!" The child begged, "I swear I didn't steal it!"

But before anything could be done or said…

"What's going on?" A voice (male) called out.

The officers turned to find Matt Fudo pulling in on his Fudo Go. Once the Duel Runner stopped, Matt removed his helmet and stared at the three police officers firmly.

"Who the hell are you?!" demanded Paul, letting go of the child.

"He looks familiar," One of the two police officers remarked.

"Where have I seen him before?" The second police officer wondered.

The child, meanwhile, recognized the approaching young man in an instant…

"I know you, you're Matt Fudo!" he proclaimed, "The Duel Monsters champion of North America!"

"That's me," smiled Matt, before turning his attention to Paul, "Now, just what seems to be the problem here, officer?"

"Heh! None of your business, pal!" barked Paul, "But since you don't know, I'll tell you what's up; we caught this juvenile delinquent stealing valuable merchandise," From there, he held up what looked like an expensive computer chip, "This was found in the boy's pocket, claiming that 'somebody dropped it'."

Matt frowned, "Are you sure he stole it?"

"Well, err… Not really," The first police officer admitted, while the second police officer scratched the back of his head.

"Shut up, moron!" snapped Paul, before looking back at Matt, "And how would you know if he 'didn't' steal it, huh?"

"Well then, might I suggest you let this boy go, and check out the surveillance cameras," pressed Matt, "Unless you're not bright enough to do your job right."

Paul snarled, "Why you-!" he threatened, "I'm warning you—if you don't keep your mouth shut, I'll have you arrested."

Matt, not saying anything back, looked unafraid of the warning. It was then Paul turned and grabbed the child's right hand, aiming to take him away.

"Come on, kid," ordered Paul sternly, "You and I have a little meeting to attend back at HQ."

But before the gruff police officer could take the young boy away, he felt his clothed shoulder being roughly grabbed by Matt, who, despite knowing that this was the wrong thing to do, was going to protect the young boy from being taken away by the police for something he clearly did not do.

"Hold it!" warned Matt severely, "You have no right to take an innocent child away like this."

"You dare assault an officer of the law?!" growled Paul, growing very angry with Matt, "You're asking for trouble, punk! In fact, you just gave me a reason to place you under custody along with the kid!"

Was Matt even remotely worried about that? Not a snowball's chance in Hell.

"You sure talk big," Matt said coldly, "But do you have the bite to match the bark?"

Paul raised an eyebrow, "Huh?" he pressed, "What are you implying?"

From there, Matt took his Deck out of the pack on his belt and held it up. Paul honestly looked like he was going to laugh in response to what was being offered to him.

"I'm challenging you to a Turbo Duel," continued Matt, "If I win, the boy goes free, and you will check the cameras for the 'real' thief."

"I see… And what if 'I' win?" asked Paul, skeptical.

"Then you can take 'me' instead of the boy," offered Matt, without fear or hesitation, "I'll tell your superiors that 'I' was the one who took the chip and tried to flee, but I couldn't outrun your pursuit. A statement like that will surely destroy my reputation as both a duelist and champion, while also bumping you up to sergeant."

The possibility of such a promotion caused Paul to grin widely with greed, because it would mean a pay raise and access to the more big stuff at the office.

"Alright, punk," chortled Paul arrogantly, "You've got yourself a deal! I'll be more than happy to teach you a lesson."

"Hey!" The first police officer interrupted, looking at Matt, "You're crazy if you think…"

Paul stopped his partner, "Why not?" he remarked, before cracking his knuckles, "I'm game for it."

"But, Mr. Truman, that's not wise at all!" The second police officer objected.

"This'll be 'my' responsibility," insisted Paul confidently, "You guys head back."

"Mr. Truman!"

"Just go…" The gruff police officer demanded crossly, "You think I'm going to lose, or something?"

The two police officers looked at each other and shrugged, deciding to let their boss handle Matt. Once the two officers returned to their car and drove away, Paul took a Deck of his own out of his pocket.

"You're quite the interesting guy," commented Matt.

"What're you driving at?" quizzed Paul.

"I never trusted bullies, but 'duelists' are a different story," continued Matt, looking and sounding every bit as cold, "You entered this duel, so I'll trust you."

Paul scoffed, "This punk is giving me a headache…" he complained, turning and climbing aboard the Duel Runner he was given by the force, "I entered this duel, so he'll trust me… Feh!"

From there, Matt put his own helmet back on and climbed onto Fudo Go. Before revving his Duel Runner up, he turned and looked at the child.

"Kid, what's your name?" asked Matt kindly.

"Nicolas," The young boy answered.

Matt smiled, "I wouldn't worry too much, Nicolas," he reassured calmly, "I'm going to clear your name. Now, climb aboard and hang on tight."

Nicolas, as he climbed aboard Fudo Go, hoped that would be the case. Soon, both Duel Runners were lined up at a traffic light under autopilot, waiting for it to turn green.

"The first one to reach the corner goes first, got it?" said Paul.

Matt nodded. Soon, the traffic lights went from red to green, and both Paul's Duel Runner and Fudo Go started roaring down the road before turning the corner onto another street. Paul ultimately won the race, meaning he got to go first in the duel.

"Duel!" Matt and Paul both announced at the same time (LP: 4000) x2.

And so, another Turbo Duel commenced. It was fortunate that traffic was slowing down right around now, because it would likely be very dangerous for a Turbo Duel to occur in the middle of the afternoon. Either way…

"I get to go first!" announced Paul, drawing a card, "Draw!"


Turn One: Paul Truman (LP: 4000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Assault Dog", "Wiretap", "All-Out Attacks", "Torapart", "Fire Flint Lady", and "Sasumata Gardna"


His drawn card was a Monster Card called 'Sasumata Gardna'.

"I like this one," thought Paul, adding the card into his hand and taking another one, "Alright, punk, watch this!" He placed his card onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Runner, "I Summon 'Assault Dog' in Attack Position!"

Appearing onto the field was an attack dog equipped with guns and armor (Level: 4/ATK: 1200/DEF: 800).

"And with this trusty beast guarding me," said Paul, slotting a card into a Spell & Trap Zone on his Duel Runner, "I'll Set one card face-down. That's all for my turn."

Matt checked the monitor of Fudo Go, noticing that his opponent had a Set card.

"Matt…" worried Nicolas.

"It will be okay," reassured Matt, drawing a card, "It's my turn!"


Turn Two: Matt Fudo (LP: 4000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Graceful Revival", "Shield Wing", "Fighting Spirit", "Junk Synchron", "Scrap-Iron Scarecrow", and "Speed Warrior"


His drawn card was the 'Speed Warrior' Monster Card, which he quickly placed onto his Duel Runner without hesitation.

"I Summon 'Speed Warrior' in Attack Position!" announced Matt.

Appearing onto the field was a humanoid-like monster wearing a gray space-like suit with goggles and a breathing mask over his face (Level: 2/ATK: 900/DEF: 400).

"Aha, Attack Position, I see," snickered Paul, "However, it doesn't even come remotely close to my 'Assault Dog's' ATK."

From there, Matt took and held another card out.

"I activate a Spell Card, 'Fighting Spirit'!" The dirty blonde-haired young man announced, slotting the card into his Duel Runner.

The mentioned Spell Card materialized face-up on the field before taking effect.

"The equipped monster gains 300 ATK for each monster my opponent controls," The voice of Matt explained, before he himself snapped his fingers and pointed at his 'Speed Warrior', "I'll equip this card onto 'Speed Warrior', increasing its ATK by 300!"

'Speed Warrior' grew stronger (ATK: 900 → 1200).

"That won't matter, because now our monsters tie in ATK!" dismissed Paul.

All of a sudden, as Matt made Fudo Go speed up, 'Speed Warrior's grew stronger (ATK: 1200 → 2100).

"HUH?! Now your monster grew stronger?!" The gruff police officer stammered.

"Once per Battle Phase, if this card was Normal Summoned this turn (except during the Damage Step): I can make its ATK become double its original ATK, until the end of the Battle Phase," explained Matt, "Nothing more to it than that."

"Man, you really tick me off, ya punk!" hissed Paul.

With Matt's successful first play, Nicholas grew hopeful that this mess would be cleaned up in no time flat.

"Here I come!" declared Matt, entering the Battle Phase, "'Speed Warrior', attack 'Assault Dog'!"

'Sonic Warrior' prepared to attack, while 'Assault Dog' roared and fired from the guns on its side. The bullets, however, had no effect on 'Sonic Warrior'.

"Sonic Edge!" The voice of Matt ordered.

Gliding at great speeds, 'Speed Warrior' jumped into the air, and kicked 'Assault Dog', causing it to explode into pieces of glass. Paul grunted as he took battle damage (LP: 4000 → 3100).

"Heh! You've gone and done it, now!" smirked Paul, seeing as he wanted his monster to be destroyed, "But I have a special effect, too!"

On cue, another 'Assault Dog' appeared on the field (Level: 4/ATK: 1200/DEF: 800).

"When this card is destroyed by battle and sent to the GY: I can Special Summon any number of 'Assault Dog' from my Deck," Paul explained, holding his card up before placing it onto his Duel Runner, "Nice try, but I'm not beaten so easily!"

'Speed Warrior's' power boost was lost since the Battle Phase had ended (ATK: 2100 → 1200). Calmly, Matt took another card from his hand and slotted it into his Duel Runner.

"I'll Set one card face-down and end my turn," he finished, just as a face-down card materialized on the field beside him (on his right) before fading away for later use, "Alright, it's your turn."

"Here I come, scumbag!" bragged Paul, drawing a card, "Draw!"


Turn Three: Paul Truman (LP: 3100)
Deck: 52
Current Hand (5): "All-Out Attacks", "Torapart", "Fire Flint Lady", "Sasumata Gardna", and "Jutte Fighter"


His drawn card was a Monster Card called 'Jutte Fighter'.

"Well, well, I've drawn another good card," grinned Paul, placing his newly drawn card onto the Monster Zone on his Duel Runner, "I Summon the Tuner monster, 'Jutte Fighter'!"

Appearing onto the field was a small Asian man, armed with a sword-like weapon called a lariat, dressed like a kung fu master (Level: 2/ATK: 700/DEF: 900).

"A Tuner monster?" frowned Matt.

"That's bad!" said Nicolas nervously.

"You're right; it's bad for you, but it's good for me!" confirmed Paul, before giving the command as 'Jutte Fighter' did a couple of moves with his weapon, "I tune Level 4 'Assault Dog' into Level 2 'Jutte Fighter'!"

After doing its karate moves, 'Jutte Fighter' turned into two Synchro Rings, which 'Assault Dog' jumped into, turning into four glowing orbs of light. The symbols 4 + 2 = 6 were shown briefly before the orbs in the Synchro Rings turned into a beam of light.

"You who bares the fangs of a wild beast, seize your prey!" chanted Paul, as the symbols 4 + 2 = 6 were shown briefly before the four orbs of light within two Synchro Rings turned into a massive beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Level 6! 'Goyo Predator'!"

Appearing onto the field, as the Synchro Summon sequence ended, was a humanoid beast-like warrior also wielding a lariat (Level: 6/ATK: 2400/DEF: 1200).

"An ATK of 2400?!" cried Nicolas.

"And this guy has an effect!" acknowledged Paul, "When this card destroys an opponent's monster by battle and sends it to the GY: I can Special Summon that monster to my field, but any battle damage it inflicts to a player is halved. I can only use this effect of 'Goyo Predator' once per turn."

Matt said nothing in response; he just waited for the opponent to try something else. And that something was an attack…

"Here I come, champion scum!" declared Paul, entering the Battle Phase, just as 'Goyo Predator' started twirling its lariat about, "I'm gonna enter my Battle Phase, and use 'Goyo Predator' to attack 'Speed Warrior'!"

'Goyo Predator' hurled his lariat at 'Speed Warrior', but before it could hit the weaker monster…

"I activate a Trap, 'Scrap-Iron Scarecrow'!" announced Matt, as his face-down card reappeared on the field behind Fudo Go, flipped face-up, and revealed itself, "My monster is going to be protected!"

Paul frowned, but said nothing in response.

"When an opponent's monster declares an attack: I must target the attacking monster; I must negate the attack, also, after that, Set this card face-down instead of sending it to the GY," explained Matt, before grinning slightly, "It was a nice try on your part."

As expected, a metallic-looking scarecrow materialized onto the field from the face-up Trap Card, intending to take the attack from 'Goyo Predator' instead.

"Well, not a bad move you got there, but…" grinned Paul, before he held his right hand out. This resulted in his Set card reappearing on the field beside him (on his right), "Trap Card, 'Wiretap'!"

The face-down card flipped face-up and revealed itself.

"When a Trap Card is activated: I must negate the activation, and if I do, shuffle that card into the Deck."

Matt didn't even react to the 'Wiretap' Trap Card being used on him, not even to his face-up 'Scrap-Iron Scarecrow' Trap Card shattering into shards of glass as it was forced back into his Deck. With that, 'Goyo Predator' resumed his attack as he finally struck 'Speed Warrior', impaling him in his chest and making him take an electrical shock.

"'Speed Warrior' will be destroyed!" laughed Paul.

"Not at the moment," interrupted Matt.

Paul immediately shut himself up, wondering what Matt was going to do next despite losing his Trap Card.

"As of this moment," The dirty blonde-haired young man pointed out, "I'll send my face-up 'Fighting Spirit' to the GY through its second effect," While speaking, the face-up 'Fighting Spirit' Spell Card dissolved into dust, "If the equipped monster would be destroyed by battle, I can destroy this card instead."

Despite the electrical shock, 'Speed Warrior' was able to get the blade out of his chest and hurl it back at 'Goyo Predator'. Despite saving his monster from destruction by battle, Matt, glowing red for a few seconds, still took big damage from the attack (LP: 4000 → 2800). Not only that, the ATK of 'Speed Warrior' also returned to its original stats seeing as the 'Fighting Spirit' Spell Card was destroyed (ATK: 1200 → 900).

"Once again, that was not too bad of a move on your part," admitted Paul, before slotting another card into his Duel Runner, "I Set one more card and end my turn!"

Both Duel Runners turned a corner and onto another street, crossing a railroad crossing before resuming the Turbo Duel.

"Matt…" worried Nicolas.

"I'll be okay," reassured Matt, drawing a card, "It's my turn!"


Turn Four: Matt Fudo (LP: 2800)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (4): "Graceful Revival", "Shield Wing", "Junk Synchron", and "Angel Baton"


His drawn card was the 'Angel Baton' Spell Card.

"I activate a Spell Card, 'Angel Baton'!" announced Matt, slotting his drawn card into his Duel Runner. He drew two more cards afterward, "I must draw 2 cards, then discard 1 card!"

The dirty blonde-haired young man sent his 'Shield Wing' Monster Card to the GY, and looked over his two drawn cards ('Starlight Junktion' and 'Stardust Wish'). Nodding, he added them into his hand, just before taking another card from there.

"From my hand, I'll Summon the Tuner monster, 'Junk Synchron'!" yelled Matt, before placing the card ('Junk Synchron') onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Runner.

The orange, robotic Tuner monster appeared on the field (Level: 3/ATK: 1300/DEF: 500).

"'Junk Synchron's' effect activates!" Matt went on, just as the 'Speed Warrior' Monster Card also materialized onto the field, face-up, "When this card is Normal Summoned, I can…" He held his retrieved card ('Shield Wing') out, "…target 1 Level 2 or lower monster in my GY; I must Special Summon that target in Defense Position, but negate its effects," From there, a card slid out of his GY, "Come, 'Shield Wing'!"

Appearing onto the field was a green bird-like creature with shields on its wings (Level: 2/ATK: 0/DEF: 900).

"Don't tell you're going to Synchro Summon!" scowled Paul, obviously not pleased.

"Let's rev it up!" declared Matt, as 'Junk Synchron' pulled a cord on his armor, causing his motor backpack to start revving as his whole body started glowing a golden yellow, "I tune Level 2 'Shield Wing' into Level 3 'Junk Synchron'!"

As expected, 'Junk Synchron' turned himself into three Synchro Rings, which 'Shield Wing' flew into, causing its body to become outlined slightly before turning into two orbs of light within the Synchro Rings.

"Gathering stars will call upon a new force! Become the path its light shines upon!" chanted Matt, as the symbols 2 + 3 = 5 were shown briefly just before the two orbs of light within the three Synchro Rings turned into a beam of light, "Synchro Summon! Show yourself, 'Junk Warrior'!"

As the beam of light disbursed, a purple robot-like warrior appeared onto the field before jumping into the sky and posing with a loud shout (Level: 5/ATK: 2300/DEF: 1300).

"Alright! That's one of your favorite monsters!" cheered Nicolas.

"I activate the effect of 'Junk Warrior'!" explained Matt. Once 'Junk Warrior' landed onto the field, he started running alongside 'Speed Warrior', "When this card is Synchro Summoned: It gains ATK equal to the total ATK of all face-up Level 2 and lower monsters I control."

From there, 'Junk Warrior' glowed in an aura as it grew stronger (ATK: 2300 → 3200).

"Damned punk!" growled Paul, looking fairly upset.

And he had every right to be upset.

"Battle!" yelled Matt, entering the Battle Phase, "Let's do it, 'Junk Warrior'!"

'Junk Warrior' fired up his jetpacks, causing him to charge towards 'Goyo Predator' as the name of his attack was yelled out…

"Scrap Fist!"

The Warrior Synchro Monster obeyed, diving through the area towards his target while raising his right fist back before throwing an energized punch with a mighty yell, striking and destroying 'Goyo Predator' on contact. Paul cried out from the attack's backlash as his LP took another big hit (LP: 3100 → 2300).

"Since you're open, I'll attack you head on!" announced Matt, "'Speed Warrior', attack the opposing player directly!" He thrust his right hand out as he announced his monster's attack name, "Sonic Edge!"

'Speed Warrior' obeyed, delivering a swift spin kick to Paul and his Duel Runner, causing the cop to cry out as he got hit and struggled to remain on the vehicle and his LP gauge took yet another big drop (LP: 2300 → 1400). With the huge drop in LP, the Security Duel Runner slowed down and allowed Fudo Go to pass.

"Now that really tears it!" shouted Paul, "You're gonna be in the slammer for a long time when this is all over!"

Matt didn't say anything in response to that; he instead took two cards ('Graceful Revival' and 'Stardust Wishes') from his hand and slotted them into separate Spell & Trap Zones on his Duel Runner.

"I'll Set two cards face-down and end my turn!" finished Matt.

Two face-down cards materialized on the field around him, just before they faded away for later use.

"It's time to take out the trash!" declared Paul, drawing a card, "It's my turn!"


Turn Five: Paul Truman (LP: 1400)
Deck: 51
Current Hand (5): "Torapart", "Fire Flint Lady", "Sasumata Gardna", and "Final Penalty"


His drawn card was a Trap Card called 'Final Penalty'.

"Now, I'll activate the effect of the 'Sasumata Gardna' in my hand!" announced Paul, "I can target 1 Synchro Monster my opponent controls; it loses 500 ATK, and if it does, I must Special Summon this card from my hand."

'Junk Warrior' glowed yellow as he became weaker (ATK: 3200 → 2700). From there, Paul placed his card ('Sasumata Gardna') onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Runner (sideways).

"Come forth, 'Sasumata Gardna'!" ordered Paul.

Appearing onto the field was a warrior wielding a spear and a shield, while wearing a white mask with red markings on it (Level: 3/ATK: 1000/DEF: 2000).

"Not only that," Paul went on, placing another card onto his Duel Runner, "I'll also Special Summon 'Fire Flint Lady' from my hand!"

Appearing onto the field was a small, Asian-looking woman carrying a flint rock in both hands (Level: 1/ATK: 100/DEF: 100).

"You see, if I control a Warrior monster: I can Special Summon this card from my hand," said Paul smugly. He then took another card and placed it onto his Duel Runner, "And finally, I'll Normal Summon the Tuner monster known as 'Torapart'!"

Appearing onto the field was a monster with two bodies—one on the top, and the other on the bottom (Level: 2/ATK: 600/DEF: 600). From there, both 'Sasumata Gardna' and 'Fire Flint Lady' jumped into the sky, while 'Torapart' started turning into two Synchro Rings.

"I tune Level 3 'Sasumata Gardna', Level 1 'Fire Flint Lady' into Level 2 'Torapart'!" The voice of Paul declared, as the above scenario played out, "I dare you to try and get past this Synchro Monster of mine!"

'Sasumata Gardna' and 'Fire Flint Lady' both dove into the two Synchro Rings, turning into orbs of light (three for the former, and one for the latter). This was followed by a Summon Chant…

"Behold, this is the power of authority!" chanted Paul, as the symbols 3 + 1 + 2 = 6 briefly appeared just before the four orbs of light within the two Synchro Rings turned into a beam of light, "Synchro Summon! A surprise encounter, 'Goyo Guardian'!"

Appearing onto the field, when the Synchro Summon sequence ended, was a masked samurai-like warrior also armed with a lariat on a rope (Level: 6/ATK: 2800/DEF: 2000).

"And don't think either of your Set cards will be of any help!" continued Paul, "If the Synchro Monster that used 'Torapart' as Synchro Material attacks, my opponent cannot activate Trap Cards until the end of the Damage Step."

"No Trap Cards?!" panicked Nicolas.

"I see…" whispered Matt, keeping himself calm, "This will make it harder for me to deflect your attacks."

"Furthermore, I'll also activate a Continuous Trap, 'All-Out Attacks'!" boomed Paul, as his Set card reappeared on the field beside him (on his left), flipped face-up, and revealed itself, "If a monster(s) is Special Summoned while this card is face-up on the field: I must change that monster to face-up Attack Position, and must attack, if able, during the turn they are Special Summoned," He entered the Battle Phase, just as 'Goyo Guardian' started to attack, "Take this! Goyo Lariat!"

'Goyo Guardian' obeyed, twirling his Lariat rope before throwing it towards 'Junk Warrior', causing the purple robot monster to cry out and explode upon contact.

"'Junk Warrior'…" grimaced Matt (LP: 2800 → 2700).

"But that isn't even the best part!" cackled Paul, looking eager to show his opponent the true power of his 'Goyo Guardian', "When 'Goyo Guardian' destroys an opponent's monster by battle and sends it to the GY: I can Special Summon that monster to my field in Defense Position!"

From there, 'Junk Warrior' returned to the field, wrapped in 'Goyo Guardian's' rope against his will.

"But there's also 'All-Out Attack'," remembered Nicolas, "All monsters that are Special Summoned while that card is face-up are changed into Attack Position and must attack if possible!"

From there, 'Goyo Guardian' swung the captured 'Junk Warrior' around and around until he smashed straight on into 'Speed Warrior', causing another explosion for Fudo Go to try and narrowly avoiding (LP: 2700 → 1300).

"Well now, punk! Your time is just about done!" taunted Paul, slotting one more card into his Duel Runner, "Just one more turn, and you AND the brat will be coming with me to the station."

Matt looked on stoically, as though he anticipated such a backstab at some point during the match. Meanwhile with Nicholas…

"HUH?!" The young boy gasped, growing incredibly scared, "But you promised that if Matt were to lose, you'd only take 'him' away and let me go!"

"You honestly believed I would honor that promise?!" dismissed Paul, "That's hardly the case! Because you two broke the law, you 'both' will be coming with me to the police station, where I will get myself a big-time promotion!"

Ouch… Cold and cruel much?

"Matt…" whimpered Nicolas, feeling terrible that he dragged Matt into this mess, "I'm so sorry."

"Don't worry, it's alright," reassured Matt, causing Nicolas to look up, "I'm not going to lose to him. In fact, I'm going to end the duel on my turn."

"But he took your 'Junk Warrior'!"

"I know," The dirty blonde-haired young man acknowledged, "However, it won't stay with him for too much longer," He drew a card with a Destiny Draw, "I guarantee it!"

"Matt…" mumbled Nicolas.


Turn Six: Matt Fudo (LP: 1300)
Deck: 51
Current Hand (2): "Starlight Junktion" and "De-Synchro"


Meanwhile, a small smile formed on Matt's face once he saw what he drew.

"It's here…" whispered Matt, loud enough for Nicolas to hear. He then held his card out, "Spell Card, 'De-Synchro', activate!"

The mentioned Spell Card materialized face-up on the field in front of Fudo Go.

"I must target 1 Synchro Monster on the field; I must return that target to the Extra Deck, then, if all of the monsters that were used for the Synchro Summon of that monster are in your GY, I can Special Summon all of them."

"No way!" cringed Paul, "You're gonna target the 'Junk Warrior' I took from you and Special Summon the Synchro Materials used to bring him out, aren't you?"

"I am," confirmed Matt, before holding his right hand, "Disappear, 'Junk Warrior'! And resurrect, 'Junk Synchron' and 'Shield Wing'!"

From there, 'Junk Warrior' turned to light and split apart, turning back into both 'Junk Synchron' and 'Shield Wing' as they returned to Matt's field.

"I'll also activate a Continuous Trap, 'Graceful Revival'!" continued Matt, as one of his face-down cards reappeared on the field beside him, flipped face-up, and revealed itself, "I must activate this card by targeting 1 Level 2 or lower monster in my GY; I must Special Summon that target in Attack Position."

On cue, 'Speed Warrior' reappeared on the field (Level: 2/ATK: 900/DEF: 400).

"I will revive 'Speed Warrior'!" The voice of Matt announced.

"That damn low-life…" fumed Paul mentally, before smirking a bit, "I'm not worried though, even if he Synchro Summons using those monsters, the Synchro Monster won't put a dent in my 'Goyo Guardian'."

"I'm not finished," interrupted Matt, readying a card in his right hand, "I have one more card to play."

"One more card?" Paul repeated, wondering what else there was to do, "What card are you even talking about?"

Well, let's find that out, shall we? Using the last card from his hand, Matt slotted it into his Duel Runner.

"This is my card," he announced, "Field Spell, 'Starlight Junktion', activate!"

"What the-?!" cried Paul, "Field Spell, did you say?"

From there, the scenery around the two duelists began changing, causing the road they were traveling on to transform into a rather creative-looking highway.

"What is this?!" demanded Paul.

"The magic of 'Starlight Junktion'," replied Matt, "I can Tribute 1 Tuner monster; I must Special Summon 1 'Synchron' monster from my Deck with a different Level than the Tributed monster had on the field."

"Any one 'Synchron' monster with a different Level?" asked Nicolas hopefully.

From there, 'Junk Synchron' vanished in blue streaks.

"That's right," acknowledged Matt, taking a card from his Deck and looking at it for a few seconds, "And this one will be perfect," He placed the card onto his Duel Runner, "Appear, 'Hyper Synchron'!"

Appearing onto the field was a blue and yellow-colored robot (Level: 4/ATK: 1600/DEF: 800).

"I hope you're ready!" declared Matt, "I tune Level 2 'Shield Wing', Level 2 'Speed Warrior' into Level 4 'Hyper Synchron'!"

'Hyper Synchron' turned itself into four Synchro Rings, which both 'Speed Warrior' and 'Shield Wing' dove/flew into respectively. They then turned into two orbs of light at once as Matt began a Summon Chant…

"Gathering stars will become a new shining star! Become the path its light shines upon!" chanted Matt, as the symbols 2 + 2 + 4 = 8 were shown briefly just before the orbs of light in the Synchro Rings turned into a beam of light. His eyes then started shining with stardust-like energy, "Synchro Summon! Take flight, 'Stardust Dragon'!"

Appearing out of the beam of light and flying into the sky, was the majestic 'Stardust Dragon', letting loose a loud roar to signal its arrival (Level: 8/ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000). With 'Speed Warrior' gone, the face-up 'Graceful Revival' Trap Card faded away.

"Ooooh… 'Stardust Dragon'!" admired Nicolas.

Paul was furious, "Impossible! You pulled that card out at a time like this?!" he wailed, but then recovered while believing the new monster was no match for his own, "But, even 'Stardust' doesn't hold a candle to my 'Goyo Guardian'!"

"Wrong," cut in Matt, "If this card is sent to the GY for the Synchro Summon of a Dragon Synchro Monster: That monster gains the following effects."

These were the effects written on the 'Hyper Synchron' Monster Card:
-"It cannot be destroyed by battle."
-"It gains 800 ATK."
-"During my second Standby Phase after this turn, I must banish it."

The spirit of 'Hyper Synchron' briefly appeared on the field before floating up and merging with 'Stardust Dragon', causing it to grow even stronger (ATK: 2500 → 3300).

"An ATK of 3300?!" panicked Paul.

"'Stardust Dragon', attack 'Goyo Guardian'!" commanded Matt, having entered the Battle Phase, while 'Stardust Dragon' started charging an attack from its mouth, "Roar! Cosmic Flare!"

'Stardust Dragon' obeyed, firing a blast of stardust-like energy towards 'Goyo Guardian', striking and destroying the monster in an explosion. Paul let out a loud yell as he felt the attack's backlash and his LP dropped a fair bit (LP: 1400 → 900).

"Just one more attack and you'll win!" rejoiced Nicolas.

"Guess again, kid!" snorted Paul, recovering from the attack, "This duel is still going to be mine! Face-down card, open!"

From there, his face-down card appeared on the field beside him, flipped face-up, and revealed itself to be…

"'Final Penalty', activate! When a Fiend monster I control is destroyed by battle: I must destroy 1 monster my opponent controls, and if I do, inflict damage to my opponent equal to half the ATK of my destroyed monster."

"What?" gasped Matt, looking up.

"Oh no!" recoiled Nicolas

A beam fired out of the face-up Trap Card towards both Fudo Go (but mainly Matt and Nicolas).

"I win!" cackled Paul, believing himself to have won.

"I activate 'Stardust Dragon's' first effect!" interrupted Matt, as, in the sky, something miraculous started happening to 'Stardust Dragon', "Victim Sanctuary!"

From there, 'Stardust Dragon' turned itself into a barrier of Stardust-like magic, blocking the beam and then vaporizing the face-up 'Final Penalty' Trap Card into dust.

"W-What did you do to my card?!" wailed Paul.

"When a card or effect is activated that would destroy a card(s) on the field (Quick Effect): I can Tribute this card; I must negate the activation, and if I do, destroy it," explained Matt, holding up his 'Stardust Dragon' Synchro Monster Card for a moment before sending it into his GY, "Sorry, but you won't be defeating me nor my monster like this."

Paul recovered again, "That was a very nice try, punk," he sneered, "However, you just got rid of your ace monster to save yourself! Once I take my turn, all I'll need is to draw a strong enough monster, and I'll have you beaten! I believe this is the end! There's just no escaping authority for you both!"

"Didn't I just say it though?" remarked Matt, causing some silence from the gruff police officer, "I'm going to win the duel right on this very turn!"

"But how 'can' you?" argued Paul.

His answer came as one more Set card reappeared on the field beside Fudo Go, flipped face-up, and revealed itself.

"I activate a Continuous Trap, 'Stardust Wish'!" began Matt, "Once per turn, if a 'Stardust' Synchro Monster I control is Tributed to activate its own effect (except during the Damage Step): I can target that monster; I must Special Summon it," While speaking, a card ('Stardust Dragon') ejected from the GY and he took hold of and held it up, "My opponent cannot activate cards or effects in response to this effect's activation. Now, you know what this means…!"

From there, 'Stardust Dragon' reappeared in the sky (Level: 8/ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000).

"'Stardust Dragon'! Y-Y-You brought it back…" stammered Paul (LP: 900), "A-And I-I-I am…!"

"That's right, it means you're wide open for an attack," said Matt calmly, before giving the finishing command to his ace monster, "'Stardust Dragon', attack directly!" He then announced his ace monster's attack name as it leaned its head back while charging another attack, "Roar! Cosmic Flare!"

'Stardust Dragon' obeyed, firing a second blast of stardust-like energy towards Paul, causing the officer to yell out when he got hit and overwhelmed by it (LP: 900 → 0).


DUEL RESULTS: Matt Fudo wins!


As Paul had lost the duel, steam emitted from the Security Duel Runner (while the monitor repeatedly flashed the word 'Defeat'), causing it to stop in the middle of the street.

"I can't believe it!" spluttered Paul, with a look of dismay on his face, "'Me', losing to that filthy punk? Ngh… there goes my promotion. Guess I'm going back to being a car meter maid…"

Matt, with Nicolas still riding with him, pulled up a small distance away from the defeated Paul as the holograms faded. The dirty blonde-haired young man then made his helmet's faceplate go up as he quickly addressed his disgraced opponent.

"You mentioned earlier how you wanted to teach me a lesson," commented Matt casually, remembering his conversation with Paul just before the duel began, "Well, how about I leave you with this. Don't underestimate people like us, or our Decks. 'cause what you see as weakness is what truly makes us strong."

With that said, he made his helmet's faceplate return, revved up his Fudo Go, and drove off, leaving Paul Truman to seethe in newly-gained hatred of Matt Fudo.

"Things ain't over between you and me…" he thought to himself, "I'm gonna crush you…"

Yikes… I think Matt just made a new enemy…

(elsewhere…)

As Fudo Go traveled down the highway to find the house Nicolas lived in, he and Matt shared a friendly conversation.

"How did you learn to duel so well, Matt?" asked Nicolas, awestruck by how powerful of a duelist Matt was.

"Years of practice," explained Matt, "Growing up on the streets of Vancouver, I learned that in order to survive in the dueling ring, I had to use everything to my advantage."

"Well, it really paid off if it got you to where you are today," smiled Nicolas, "Oh, and thanks for sticking up for me."

"Think nothing of," Matt smiled back, "If there's one thing I can't stand, it's innocent children being falsely punished for something they didn't do."

And so, Fudo Go roared down the road before taking an exit.

(elsewhere…)

Soon, as the sun began to go down, Matt pulled up near a house.

"Is this where you live?" he asked Nicolas.

"This is it!" confirmed Nicolas, jumping off Fudo Go, "Thanks again! I'll continue to root for you in your duels!"

Matt shot a thumbs up at the departing young boy, before revving up his Duel Runner and riding away.

(elsewhere…)

With Paul's defeat, the police honored their word and looked into the security footage. Upon doing so, they were very surprised to discover that Nicolas had indeed been telling the truth. According to the footage, the 'real' thief had accidentally dropped the chip while trying to escape. And Nicolas, at the wrong place at the wrong time, picked the chip up as a means of returning it to its rightful owners just as the police had arrived.

"Oh boy, the chief is gonna be really mad at us when we inform him of what we almost did," The first police officer said sheepishly.

"Agreed," The second police officer nodded, "My advice? Let's never do something like that again."

And it was agreed to.

(elsewhere…)

As for Paul Trueman, when his superiors heard about his recent behavior, he was given a very strict lecture on how important it was to gather all the necessary information 'before' an arrest could be made. In simpler language, the meeting was not pretty. While the rest of his squad apprehended the 'real' thief, the arrogant officer was faced with the temporarily punishment of being demoted to being a car meter maid until it was announced he would instead be relocated to work for the NYPD all the way in (you guessed it) New York City with an assistant by his side in order to keep him from making a similar mistake again. Anyway, inside the police station later that night, Paul was busy speaking to his superiors about his new assignment. As expected, he was far from being happy over getting relocated from 'San Francisco - California' out east to 'New York City - New York'.

"R-Relocated?!" cried Paul, once the news was given.

"I'm afraid so, Officer Truman," said the police chief sternly, "You see, there is no place on this force for an officer who jumps to conclusions before knowing the truth. You tried arresting a child for a crime he did not commit, and also tried to do the same to Matt Fudo when he stepped in to defend the child!"

"B-B-But I was j-j-just trying t-t-to do m-m-my job!" Paul was stammering, "And besides, I've just started my-"

"That is enough," The second high-ranking officer interrupted, "Your new assignment is to travel and work with the New York Police Department in New York City for a little while, which I'm sure will help you learn that common sense 'always' comes first."

"Not only that, we also have some more news for you," The police chief added, handing the disgraced Paul a photograph of a young woman, "We're assigning you an assistant to make sure you don't do something like this again. She's young and not yet in her thirties yet, but is also very wise and by the book."

The door to the office opened, and a young woman, aged 27, with short black hair walked inside. It was the same young woman from the photograph.

"Maria Strienhart reporting as ordered, sir," she said, saluting to her superiors.

"Right on time," The police chief nodded, "I'm sure you and Officer Truman will get along great."

"Yes, sir," nodded Maria, "And seeing as I have family living in New York City, I'm perfectly fine with the transfer."

Paul, meanwhile, fumed in silence, thinking about how this was all Matt's fault, and how he would get even with him one of these days if they were to ever meet again. For now, he would have to accept being transferred all the way across the United States from San Francisco to New York City.

(elsewhere…)

Back in the city, Matt had finally pulled up outside Discord's mansion, officially home again.

"Home sweet home," he sighed, taking off his helmet and stepping off Fudo Go, "The guys must be wondering where I've been the last little while."

(inside…)

Inside the living room, James R. and Zack were playing video games, while Carlie and Michael (who had gotten home earlier on) watched.

"Hello?!" The voice of Matt called out.

Zack looked up, "About time, I'm starving!"

"Matt's been gone for far longer than I was hoping for," said Carlie, "I was beginning to get worried."

Thankfully, our hero had returned just in time before his friends really started to get worried.

"Sorry I'm late, guys," apologized Matt, walking into the living room with dinner, "I decided to go for a little ride in the city, but I kinda lost track of time."

"Well, we're all glad you made back safely, Matty-boy," The voice of Discord (27) replied, just as he walked into the room, "This letter just came for you, Mike, Carlie, and James while you were out."

"A letter?" asked Matt, taking the envelope from his adopted Father and looking at it.

"We were getting anxious for your return, man!" scolded James R., "I want to see what the letter says!"

Curiously, Matt opened the envelope and took the letter out. This was what it said…

"To Matt Fudo, Michael Atlas, Carlie Izayoi, and James Hogan… In light of your many great achievements, you four are hereby invited to join other Turbo Duelists like you, who have also achieved great things in life, and compete in a special Duel Monsters tournament in New York City.

Should you four agree to take part, this could in turn help you achieve further great things that not even you realize are possible. The tournament starts in three weeks from today… I look forward to hearing your answer before then.

Yours truly, Rex Godwin."

"What the heck?" quizzed James R., once Matt finished reading the letter, "Who's he, Rex Godwin?"

"You got me, mate," said Michael, shaking his head.

"I don't think I've ever heard of that guy before," mused Zack, folding his arms.

"Either way, this is a big decision for all of you to make," Discord pointed out, "If you choose to take part, you will ultimately have to face each other in the tournament."

"We've dueled against each other many times before," reminded James R., "I think we can handle the stiff competition," He then held his right hand out, "I'm going!"

Michael laid his right hand out, "The King would never let his fans down!"

"I'll take part," agreed Carlie, placing her right hand out.

"When you guys put it that way…" finished Matt, placing his right hand out, "You can count me in!"

As both Zack and Discord watched, Matt, Michael, Carlie, and James R. all raised their hands up as though they were on a team.

"GO, TEAM 4D'S!" The four young adults announced at the same time.

Well, I do believe that a final decision has been made, wouldn't you agree? What would our heroes encounter once they arrive in New York City? Would they make some new friends in the process, or a whole bunch of new enemies? Well, it's a mystery, that's for sure. All I can say about it, is to stay tuned for…

Yu-Gi-Oh! 6D's: Legend of the Six Dragons


This is the final introductory story for the 5D's-based characters, with two duels being featured in one single story. When Season 6 of the main series is finally all finished, the spin-off series can officially take off—while also being worked on alongside the film adaptation The Dark Side of Dimension (at some point, that is, I still don't have an exact work or post date picked out). And there's one more thing I can say, the spin-off series will be a partial crossover story with Mobile Suit Gundam SEED, featuring a number of characters, story elements, and inspirations from that anime. I promise you guys that it will be a really big project of breathtaking per-portions, so stand by for it.