This story was done in collaboration between me and Jriddle41 (Sodormatchmaker on DeviantART), and we both 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
WARNING: These stories are rated T for moments of violence, mild blood, frightening moments, and some suggestive themes. Viewer discretion may be advised.
Title: Let Battle City Begin!
It had been two weeks since the announcement of the Battle City tournament, and exams at the high schools had gone by without problems. That meant one thing… It was the big day all of the signed up duelists had waited for; it was the start of the Battle City today. Early that morning, Emily was walking down the street towards the Billinton residence in order to meet up with Thomas. She had gotten a call from her blue-haired friend earlier, with him asking her to meet him there to discuss a few details. Emily could only wonder what they were.
"I sure hope things will be alright," she said to herself, "Thomas has been pretty upset since Percy lost his 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' to one of those Rare Hunters."
(elsewhere…)
Inside Thomas's room in the Billinton residence, he was sitting at his desk looking over his new Deck for the big tournament. Some of the cards shown were the typical staples of his Deck like 'Dark Magician', 'Dark Magician Girl', 'Mirror Force', 'Kuriboh', and 'Monster Reborn', but there were also some newer additions like 'Spell Shattering Arrow' (Spell Card), 'The Rock Spirit' (Effect Monster Card), 'Des Volstgalph' (Effect Monster Card), 'Monster Rebirth' (Trap Card), and 'Valkyrion the Magna Wings' (Fusion Monster Card). In addition, he also looked very tired, like he was up all night.
"Today's the big day," Thomas said, holding back a yawn, "It took me all night, but at last my new Deck is ready."
A gentle knock came at his door.
"Thomas, Emily's here," The voice of Mrs. Billinton called out.
"Thanks, Mom," replied Thomas sleepily.
The door opened and Emily walked into the room.
"Hi, Thomas," greeted Emily, before gasping after seeing how exhausted Thomas looked, "Wow, you look tired."
Thomas yawned in response, "I've been up all night."
"I can see," acknowledged Emily earnestly, "What did you want to talk to me about?"
"You remember the Rare Hunters Ishizu told us about? The dark syndicate that controls underground gaming and the ones that ambushed James and Percy?" recalled Thomas.
"How could I forget?" agreed Emily, "Percy lost his 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' to those jerks."
"Well, they're sure to also come after me and my 'Dark Magician'," assumed Thomas, holding up his 'Dark Magician' Normal Monster Card before he and Emily eyed the new Deck on his table, "So I've been up all night working on this Deck to make sure they don't win," He looked confident in himself, "We'll get 'Red-Eyes' back and make those thieves pay."
Emily nodded before realizing there was another question she wanted to ask Thomas.
"Thomas, is there another reason why you've entered this tournament?" pressed Emily.
"Huh?"
"Knowing how unfair it is to give up your rarest card if you lose," The dark green-haired girl went on, "I know you wouldn't enter just for the sake of obtaining rare cards. What deeper reason would you have to enter besides the Rare Hunters?"
Looking quiet for a moment, Thomas decided to explain his reason.
"I want answers," revealed Thomas.
"Answers?" repeated Emily, before understanding what was being said, "You don't mean-"
"Answers to that vision," explained Thomas, "Why were Atem and Seto fighting? What more will happen?"
"I…see," Emily uttered slowly, "I guess what Ishizu showed us in the museum has been much more unsettling for you than I thought, right?"
"It sure has," Thomas nodded, conflicted.
"What did your parents say when you told them what we saw?" pondered Emily.
"Oh, them?" grumbled Thomas, now looking annoyed as a thought bubble formed as he described what happened, "They complimented me on having such a creative imagination and suggested I make a book out of it."
The bubble popped, and Emily looked very amused by what she heard.
"In other words: They didn't believe you?" giggled Emily.
"That sums it up," sighed Thomas, before holding his arms in a pout, "Sometimes I wonder why it is that parents hardly take their children seriously?"
"Another riddle of the lifetime," answered Emily cheekily.
The two Sudrian teenagers shared a laugh over that little tidbit, feeling a little better after their initially serious conversation.
(elsewhere…)
Meanwhile, inside Percy's room at the Avonside residence, he was still in a tizzy over losing his 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' Normal Monster Card.
"I can't believe I lost my 'Red-Eyes' to those Rare Hunters," he complained, "I gotta win it back. Hopefully my new Deck can help me do so."
Since he no longer had access to his 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' Normal Monster Card, Percy had removed its support cards ('Dark Dragon Ritual', 'Knight of Dark Dragon', 'Inferno Fire Blast', 'Metalmorph', 'Red-Eyes Black Metal Dragon' and 'Dragon Nails') from his Deck. Looking over it, some of the cards shown were 'Goblin Attack Force', 'Roulette Spider', 'Mad Sword Beast', 'Trap Hole of Spikes', 'Rocket Warrior', 'Shield & Sword', 'Armory Call', 'Grappler of Landstar', and 'Max Raider'. After spending a minute looking it over, Percy eventually tossed it upward in a fit of frustration, scattering all the cards onto the floor.
"Aw, who am I kidding?" wailed Percy, as the cards scattered around, "That Deck will never work for me!" He collapsed on the floor and entered his thoughts, "I didn't tell Thomas about that guy's Deck because I want to get revenge by myself, and it's too late to ask for his advice now…"
Just then, Percy heard his cellphone beginning to ring, snapping him out of his pity party as he sat up.
"I wonder who that could be," mumbled Percy, picking up the phone and answering it, "Hello?"
"Hi, Percy," The voice of Lady Stone echoed on the other line.
"Lady!" Percy smiled, feeling a bit better hearing from his girlfriend, "What's up?"
(elsewhere…)
Somewhere in Knapford City, Lady was sitting on a bench talking to Percy on her cellphone.
"Nothing too much," responded Lady, "I heard about what happened to you from Thomas and James, and I'm really sorry you lost your 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon'."
"Yeah," The voice of Percy peeped, sounding gloomy once again.
"But don't you worry," assured Lady, "I know you'll get it back."
(elsewhere…)
Inside Percy's room…
"I'll be rooting for you in the tournament even though I'm also participating," The voice of Lady promised.
"Well, good luck to you," Percy said encouragingly.
"Thanks. I love you."
"Love you, too," finished Percy, as he hung up and let out a sigh, "Now I just need to prepare a good enough Deck."
Yes sir, this was one tournament that he would see as a challenge.
(elsewhere…)
An hour later, Stanley and Rosie were both hanging out at the park. Since the main action of the tournament was in the city itself, and they weren't competing in it, the two American teenagers went to the park where there was plenty of room to just duel for fun.
"This place should do it," figured Stanley, looking around.
"It has plenty of space," admired Rosie, as she looked bright and cheerful, "Enough for us to duel without any disturbance from the tournament," She took her Deck out of her pocket and stared long and hard at it, "Let's see if I can improve myself."
(elsewhere…)
Meanwhile, there were duelists all around Knapford City. The five American duelists all couldn't believe their eyes.
"Amazing," commented Zack, "There must be hundreds of duelists around here."
"This is going to be so good," added James R..
"It's a shame none of us are competing," sighed Carlie, "A good tournament would've been great for us with what time we have left on the island."
"We likely would have cleaned everyone out," Michael added, sounding a bit arrogant.
The others just rolled their eyes, knowing that despite being a changed person, Michael Atlas still retained much of his arrogance. Over near the clock tower, Thomas, James, and everyone else was waiting for Percy to arrive.
"Here we are," began James.
"Another big tournament," stated Edward.
"We wish the best of luck to you both and Percy," advised Toby, speaking to Thomas and James.
"We'll all be around to cheer you on," vowed Mavis.
"Well, here's hoping the first duel of the tournament doesn't involve Diesel trying to kidnap or harm you in any way, Mavis," frowned Thomas.
"Don't remind me," grunted Mavis, still remembering the unpleasant experience, "That experience is something I'm not gonna forget any time soon."
"Speaking of Diesel," cut in Henry, looking around the area, "I wouldn't doubt he'd enter this tournament and try to cheat."
As expected, nearby, Diesel (who was also in the tournament) was speaking to 'Arry, Bert, and Dennis.
"What did you say, Diesel?" pressed Dennis, sounding very interested as Diesel smiled smugly, "You say you have a new secret weapon?"
"That I do, Dennis," beamed Diesel. "A secret weapon that will make my Deck even more powerful."
"Ooh, that sounds awesome," admired 'Arry.
"Yes, I know. Anyway, this time I'm going to play things really smart," continued Diesel, looking down at his Deck, "That way, I don't get knocked out in my first duel."
Back with Thomas and the others, they were still waiting for Percy to arrive—but he was still a no show.
"Where is he?" fretted Emily.
"He said he'd meet us here," remembered Toby.
"Well, I was talking to Lady earlier today, and she told me that Percy hadn't been himself lately," said Edward.
"Can you blame him?" urged Thomas, "It's because of those Rare Hunters!"
Before any further discussion could take place, a new voice echoed in the area…and a familiar one at that.
"Greetings, fellow duelists," The voice of Spencer boomed.
"Spencer!" exclaimed Gordon.
The face of Spencer Gresley was being shown on a large view screen attached to a huge blimp.
"Welcome to Battle City," The image of Spencer greeted, "A field of battle for those who believe in the Decks they've built, those who never turn their backs on any foes, those brave enough to fight to the very end and wage rites deciding winners and losers!" As he spoke on, everyone else down below listened carefully, "As you know, this is a new tournament sponsored by both Boxford Corp and Industrial Illusions."
"Industrial Illusions?" blinked Emily.
"Discord actually sponsored this whole thing with Spencer?" put in Gordon.
"I shouldn't be surprised," shrugged James, "Considering that their companies do work together and such."
Back above…
"Now, in case you are all wondering, this tournament will follow the rules that have always been used in the game," The image of Spencer was saying, holding up his left arm (with the Duel Disk) and showing the inserted Deck, "Your Deck must have at least a minimum of 40 cards to be able to be used in a duel. The max amount of cards you can use in a Deck is 60 cards. No more, no less."
Back below…
"Seems simple," scoffed James.
"However!" The voice of Spencer interrupted, causing James to ease up. Back above, he was now holding up all three copies of his 'Blue-Eyes White Dragon' Normal Monster Cards, "There are a few changes to the rules. In addition to the new list of card limitations, there is also an ante rule. It's where you must give up your rarest card to the winner of a duel."
Back below…
"We're already aware of that," huffed Thomas, still unhappy of having to wager his 'Dark Magician' Normal Monster Card.
"Ante duel," uttered Dennis.
"Duelists never want to lose a rare card," nodded Diesel.
"I can't afford to lose," concluded Lady, before smiling, "This tournament will be a fierce battle."
Back above…
"Only eight contestants participating in the battle royal…" The image of Spencer informed, as, back below, Thomas listened, "…will make it to the finals!"
"Only eight?" repeated Thomas.
Back above…
"As for the location of the finals…" The image of Spencer started to say, before stopping, closing his eyes, and smirking, "Its location is hidden somewhere within the city! Because I plan to enter this contest along with everyone fairly, even I don't know where the finals will be held."
Back below, everyone appeared unhappy that even Spencer didn't know the location of the finals. However, some people were pleased that Spencer was in the tournament, too.
"Alright, that rich bastard is in the game," thought James, "I can try taking him out early on!"
"Too bad there's only one duelist out there I want to face more than anything," The voice of Spencer rebutted, as everyone else listened before focus went towards Thomas, "I also know he's down there somewhere… Am I right, Thomas Billinton?"
Thomas looked fiercely up at Spencer. By now, he was getting LOTS of stares from the other duelists and some wandering civilians.
"You're on," Thomas accepted quietly.
"But how are we supposed to find the final location?!" yelled Dennis.
Back above…
"Now, you all must recall receiving a special plate when you all registered for the tournament a few weeks ago," The image of Spencer acknowledged, before holding up a clear card, "You also must wager these in every duel you take part in."
Back below…
"What purpose are they?" pondered James, looking at his clear card.
"These are Locator Cards," The voice of Spencer answered, as if he had heard the question before—as every duelist in the area looked at their lone clear card, "Each Locator Card has a special prism, and each one shows your starting location," As he described how they worked, everyone envisioned it along, "If you stack them on top of each other, it will create a map of Knapford City, and by stacking six cards, the entire map appears…" The explanation was soon finished as he put his Locator Card away, "…and a light will shine on one spot. That's the location of the finals, and only those who gather six Locator Cards will be able to reach that hidden location."
Back below…
"I see… A hidden location," thought Thomas, looking at his Locator Card.
"I promise…" exclaimed Lady.
"…to get there!" James, Diesel, and Dennis each finished.
Back above, Spencer gave one final message.
"Let the Battle City tournament begin!" The image of Spencer announced, smirking with pride, "Duelists, scatter around and find your opponents!"
Back below, everyone (except for a scatter few) started cheering. Suddenly, fireworks were shot into the sky.
"It's starting!" cried a random duelist.
"Hell yeah! Let's get out there and show them who's the best!" whooped James, racing off.
"James, wait!" Gordon protested, but it was too late as James was long gone, "Bother!"
"I guess we'd best go after him before he gets himself into trouble again," groaned Henry, "We'll see you later."
Gordon and Henry both took off after James. Leaving Thomas, Edward, Toby, Emily, and Mavis behind.
"That ego of James's is going to get him in trouble one day," deadpanned Mavis.
"Tell me about it," scowled Emily.
"Well, anyway, Mavis and I are going to check out some of the duels," Toby spoke up, as Thomas, Emily, and Edward looked over, "I hope you guys don't mind that."
"Not at all," smiled Edward, "You two enjoy yourselves."
"We will," Toby smiled back. With that said, he and Mavis held hands, "Come on, Mavis!"
"No need to tell me twice," winked Mavis.
The couple was soon gone.
"Those two were made for each other," admired Thomas, folding his arms proudly.
"Like Thomas and I," thought Emily, as she cuddled closer to Thomas.
"Um, Emily?" Edward raised an eyebrow, as Emily looked over, "What are you doing?"
Emily immediately broke out of her trance and blushed with embarrassment.
"O-Oh! I-I-I was just a bit sleepy," she lied hastily.
Before anything could be said, an angry voice could be heard from nearby.
"Where is he?! I'll show that stuck-up jerk!" The voice of Percy yelled out
"That sounds like Percy," realized Edward.
Indeed, it was Percy. He was looking around for someone—a certain Rare Hunter by the name of Seeker.
"He's got to be around here somewhere!" growled Percy, "Well, when I find him, I'll beat him and get my 'Red-Eyes' back!"
(elsewhere…)
Meanwhile, Seeker was sitting outside a café sipping a latte while looking at a laptop computer. He was reading the dueling statuses of all the duelists that were in the Battle City tournament, which showed him their Deck-Type, their Level, and their rarest card(s).
"Let's see," remarked Seeker, as the laptop showed Lady's stats, and then Diesel's stats, "Lady Stone, 'Harpies' Feather Duster'… Diesel Horwich, 'Insect Queen'…" He giggled, "Oh my! This will be fun."
"HEY, YOU!" The voice of Percy roared.
Seeker looked up, raised an eyebrow, and noticed Percy walking over looking very cross.
"Well, well, well," taunted Seeker, "Look who's come back for another humiliation."
"Can it, you creep!" snapped Percy, "You took my 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' and I want it back! So I'm challenging you to a rematch!"
That demand was met with some harsh laughter.
"So the loser dog hasn't forgotten how to bark, huh?" sneered Seeker.
"Loser dog?!" recoiled Percy, "Don't call me that!"
At that moment, Thomas, Emily, and Edward came in.
"What's the matter, Percy?" worried Thomas.
"That's the guy, Thomas!" revealed Percy, pointing an accusing finger at Seeker, "That's the creep that took my 'Red-Eyes' and beat me up! And now he's saying he won't duel me again."
"I've no need to duel a weak duelist like you again," refused Seeker, sitting up and looking at Thomas with a look of evil within the right eye, "I would, however, like to duel against the champion of the San Francisco tournament and take his 'Dark Magician' from him."
"So he's one of the Rare Hunters we were told about…!" thought Thomas.
"Thomas, don't face him!" advised Percy, "He won't be defeated so easily!"
"And what makes you think you can win?" retorted Seeker, "Remember? I already have your rarest card, so I have no need to beat you a second time," He (Seeker) faced Thomas once more, "Now, Thomas Billinton, I challenge you!"
"Wait! This is my problem!" argued Percy.
"No, Percy. I accept this game," said Thomas firmly, as his tone hardened considerably, "Duelists put their life into their cards! Those who try to steal them…will not be forgiven!" He (Thomas) faced and pointed at Seeker, "You are the trash contaminating the city, and I will clean up said trash!"
"Don't risk your 'Dark Magician' like this, Thomas!" protested Percy, as focus went towards Seeker, "Those Rare Hunters will do anything to win, even making fake rare cards to boost the power of their Decks!" He then started to say something else, "And this guy has-!"
But before Percy could continue, Thomas held up a hand to stop him.
"Say no more, Percy," requested Thomas.
Percy flinched, "But, Thomas-!"
"I'd listen to him if I were you," interrupted Seeker, causing Percy to look over. He was then seen holding the 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' Normal Monster Card up, "If you say anything more and spoil my fun, I'll tear your favorite card up and you'll never see it again."
Percy gasped, but then growled and chose not to say anymore.
"Percy, no matter how dirty he is, I have no right to know his cards before the duel," insisted Thomas, before eyeing Seeker again, "Rare Hunter, I want you to come at me with your best tactics! My Deck and I will destroy you!"
"How admirable of you," Seeker smirked, finding Thomas's words to be stupid, "But that's not enough to win the duel! Your naive sense of justice won't work against the Rare Hunters! You'll lose your rare cards and fall into the darkness known as defeat!"
"We'll see about that," responded Thomas.
The two duelists activated their Duel Disks and drew their opening hands (LP: 4000) x2, as the first duel of the whole tournament began.
(elsewhere…)
Inside Boxford Corp headquarters, some of the communication girls were typing away on their computers to keep a track on the duels going on in Knapford City. Skiff was present to help them out.
"Master Skiff," reported Girl 1. "The duels for the Battle City tournament are all underway."
"That's good to hear," accepted Skiff, "My Big Brother will be pleased to hear that."
On cue, Spencer entered the bridge.
"Well?" urged Spencer gruffly.
"Thomas is having the first duel of the tournament," announced Girl 2.
"But his opponent is a man we're not familiar with," frowned Girl 3, typing away on the keyboard, "Data screen on."
Spencer looked at the data screen as it turned on and revealed the battle between Thomas and Seeker.
"That must be one of the Rare Hunters," thought Spencer, before speaking aloud, "So Billinton is starting things off. I think I'll stay and watch for a while."
"Let's keep searching for the 'God' Cards," instructed Skiff, as the girls typed away in search of the remaining 'Egyptian God' Cards, "The duelist with the remaining 'God' Cards must be somewhere. Thoroughly check the data sent from the Duel Disks!"
(elsewhere…)
Back in the town square…
"Duel!" Thomas and Seeker declared at the same time.
A crowd of people noticed the commotion and came to see.
"Thomas is in the first duel of the tournament!" One male teenager called out.
"This should be good," One female teenager observed.
Back on the field…
"I'll go first," suggested Thomas, drawing a card, "Draw!"
"Go right ahead," mocked Seeker, whose opening hand contained 'Right Arm of the Forbidden One', 'Left Leg of the Forbidden One', 'Threatening Roar', 'Graceful Charity', and 'Stone Statue of the Aztecs'. "I'm starting with two 'Exodia' pieces in my hand. When I have all five cards, I win!"
Nearby, Percy, Edward, and Emily all watched with anticipation.
"Thomas! Please notice his strategy!" thought Percy.
Turn One: Thomas Billinton (LP: 4000)
Deck: 54
Current Hand (6): "Skull Archfiend of Lightning", "Beaver Warrior", "Polymerization", "Light of Intervention", "Gamma The Magnet Warrior", and "Berfomet"
Back on the field, Thomas added the drawn card into his hand and took another card to play.
"This will be my card," said Thomas firmly, placing the card ('Beaver Warrior') onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Disk, "'Beaver Warrior' in Defense Position!"
Appearing on the field was a small beaver monster wearing armor and wielding a small sword and shield (Level: 4/ATK: 1200/DEF: 1500).
"For my last move, I'll Set one card on the field," finished Thomas, slotting a card into his Duel Disk and causing a face-down card to appear on the field behind the defending 'Beaver Warrior', "My turn has finished!"
With the crowd…
"Wh-What on Earth is that?" Man 1 blinked with confusion.
"A weird beaver came out of a card," stammered Man 2.
"This is Duel Monsters!" corrected Dennis.
"Starting now, this whole city is a battlefield for us duelists!" bragged Diesel.
Back on the field…
"It's my turn!" beamed Seeker, drawing a card, "Draw!"
Turn Two: Seeker (LP: 4000)
Deck: 34
Current Hand (6): "Right Arm of the Forbidden One", "Left Leg of the Forbidden One", "Threatening Roar", "Graceful Charity", "Stone Statue of the Aztecs", and "Sinister Serpent"
His drawn card was a Monster Card called 'Sinister Serpent', a rare card with an equally rare effect. Seeker added it into his hand, took, and held a new card up without showing what it was.
"Just like you, I'll Set one card face-down," declared Seeker, slotting a card into a Spell & Trap Zone on his Duel Disk, "Like so!"
A face-down card appeared on the field near his feet. That was followed by Seeker holding another card ('Graceful Charity') up—one of his favorites, too.
"'Graceful Charity'!" snickered Seeker, making Thomas look unsettled. He was then shown drawing three cards, "I must draw 3 cards," Once they were placed in his hand, he took two more cards from there, "then discard 2 cards."
Seeker discarded the two cards, then saw that his hand contained 'Right Arm of the Forbidden One', 'Left Leg of the Forbidden One', 'Stone Statue of the Aztecs', 'Avatar of The Pot', and 'Right Leg of the Forbidden One'. He giggled to himself, growing more and more pleased.
"A card that allows him to draw from his Deck," thought Thomas, "He must be planning something," He spoke aloud, "If it's like that, I'll reveal your plans! Continuous Trap, open!" His Set card flipped face-up and revealed itself, "'Light of Intervention'!"
"What? What does that do?" wondered Percy.
While this card is on the field, monsters cannot be Set or flipped face-down. If a monster would be Set, Normal Summon it in face-up Defense Position," guessed Emily, before looking at Edward. "Is that right?"
"Yes," confirmed Edward. "It's a good way to avoid monsters that have Flip effects."
Back on the field, Seeker didn't seem to mind that Thomas played a card like that.
"A worthless play!" he dismissed, before placing another card ('Stone Statue of the Aztecs') onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Disk (sideways), "I Summon 'Stone Statue of the Aztecs' in Defense Position!"
A large stone statue-like monster appeared on the field (Level: 4/ATK: 300/DEF: 2000).
"A rare monster with high DEF," mused Thomas, as focus went towards 'Stone Statue of the Aztecs', "Double any battle damage your opponent takes when they attack this monster."
"You'll never damage my LP unless you go through this monster!" laughed Seeker, before entering his thoughts, "I have three parts in my hand… Just two more and…"
Back with the crowd…
"Thomas! Be careful!" called Percy, causing Thomas to look over and see what was the matter, "That's exactly what he did to m-"
"Be silent, boy!" snapped Seeker, causing Percy to look over, "Say anything else, and you can say goodbye to your 'Red-Eyes'!"
Percy scowled as he became quiet. He (Percy) really wanted Thomas to know what he (Thomas) was up against, but didn't want to risk losing his (Percy) 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' Normal Monster Card. Meanwhile, Paxton was walking around the area, hoping to see Thomas or someone else dueling. Diesel looked over and saw his fellow Smelter classmate.
"Hey, Paxton!" yelled Diesel, causing Dennis, 'Arry, and Bert to look over, "Over here!"
Paxton looked over and gulped uncomfortably, wanting to avoid Diesel and his gang.
"Come on over and watch this duel with us!" The voice of Bert requested.
"It'll be fun!" The voice of 'Arry reassured.
"Do it, and we won't give you a knuckle sandwich!" joked Dennis, as Diesel laughed in response.
"Sure, you got it," sighed Paxton. He (Paxton) really hated having to listen to Diesel and the likes, but, right now, there was no choice, "I'm coming."
Once Paxton reached Diesel, Dennis, 'Arry, and Bert, Thomas was about to begin his turn.
"It's my turn!" bellowed Thomas, drawing a card, "Draw!"
Turn Three: Thomas Billinton (LP: 4000)
Deck: 53
Current Hand (5): "Skull Archfiend of Lightning", "Polymerization", "Gamma The Magnet Warrior", "Berfomet", and "Time Seal"
He looked at his drawn card.
"I can use this if needed," thought Thomas, before slotting the card into his Duel Disk, "I Set one card face-down!" A face-down card appeared on the field near his feet, just as he placed another card ('Berfomet') atop the occupied Monster Zone, "And next, I'll Tribute 'Beaver Warrior' and Tribute Summon 'Berfomet'!"
'Beaver Warrior' vanished in a blue streak, and appearing on the field in its place was a winged demon with the head of a goat and the body of a human (Level: 5/ATK: 1400/DEF: 1800).
"'Berfomet's' effect activates!" continued Thomas, as a card ('Gazelle the King of Mythical Beasts') slid from the middle of his Deck and he placed it into his hand. "When this card is Normal or Flip Summoned: I can add 1 'Gazelle the King of Mythical Beasts' from my Deck to my hand."
Seeker kept on smiling, wondering what other useless play Thomas would make. Sure enough, Thomas had something else to play…
"Next, I'll activate the Spell Card, 'Polymerization'!" As Thomas was saying that, he was holding a card ('Polymerization') out. "With it, I'll fuse 'Gazelle the King of Mythical Beasts' with 'Berfomet'!"
A beast-like monster called 'Gazelle the King of Mythical Beasts' briefly appeared on the field before beginning to merge with 'Berfomet'.
"Demon with huge wings, become one with the ruler of Phantom Beasts, and repel tyranny with your unnatural power!" chanted Thomas, "Fusion Summon! Come forth, 'Chimera the Flying Mythical Beast'!"
Appearing on the field with a loud howling-like roar, was a twin-headed beast with a snake tail (Level: 6/ATK: 2100/DEF: 1800). Seeker, however, was ready for an incoming attack.
"I activate a Trap Card, 'Threatening Roar'!" howled Seeker, as his face-down card flipped up and revealed itself, "My opponent cannot declare an attack this turn!"
'Chimera the Flying Mythical Beast' felt itself growing numb from a shock from the face-up 'Threatening Roar' Trap Card.
"That's not fair!" objected Emily.
"It's perfectly fair, Emily," corrected Edward.
Back on the field…
"Tch! I'm afraid I have no other options," acknowledged Thomas in defeat, "I end my turn."
"All he sees is the defending monster," thought Seeker, "While he does that, I'm about to collect all the 'Exodia' parts," He eyed Thomas with malice, "Though you don't notice it, you're walking towards failure."
"So, what will you do, Rare Hunter?" said Thomas coldly.
"It's my turn!" responded Seeker, as he was shown drawing a card, "Draw!"
Turn Four: Seeker (LP: 4000)
Deck: 30
Current Hand (5): "Right Arm of the Forbidden One", "Left Leg of the Forbidden One", "Avatar of The Pot", "Right Leg of the Forbidden One", and "Pot of Greed"
To his delight, Seeker saw that he drew the 'Pot of Greed' Spell Card—plus there was another rare card in his GY that he could get back.
"I activate the monster effect of 'Sinister Serpent'!" announced Seeker, holding up a card ('Sinister Serpent') taken from his GY, "During my Standby Phase, if this card is in my GY: I can return it to my hand."
Thomas scowled, but said nothing. With the crowd…
"No cost? Man, that card is busted," complained Dennis.
"Why didn't Discord change its ruling?" quizzed Diesel.
Paxton merely shrugged. Back on the field, a Monster Card called 'Avatar of The Pot' materialized face-up on the field.
"I Summon 'Avatar of The Pot'!" The voice of Seeker proclaimed.
Appearing from the face-up card and onto the field, was the all too familiar 'Pot of Greed'—only for it to then suddenly grow an entire, green-skinned and muscular body from underneath, with the Pot serving as the head and gold rings around its wrists and ankles. But perhaps the most unsettling thing about this creature was that the only piece of clothing it had on was…a g-string (Level: 3/ATK: 1200/DEF: 1300). Back with the crowd…
"Oh God, my eyes!" wailed Emily in disgust, covering her eyes, "Please kill it now, Thomas!"
"Ha! Wimp!" teased Diesel.
Back on the field, Thomas was more worried about what Seeker's monster was capable of doing rather than how it looked.
"Another rare monster," murmured Thomas, "And it's one where if you have-"
"I activate 'Avatar of The Pot's' special effect," interrupted Seeker, making Thomas gasp. He then sent a card ('Pot of Greed') from his hand to the GY, "I can send 1 'Pot of Greed' from my hand to the GY; I must…" Three more cards were drawn, "…draw 3 cards," On cue, he held one of the drawn cards ('Graceful Charity') up, "Then I'll activate another copy of 'Graceful Charity'!"
"He's refreshing his hand so much," thought Thomas, "What does he want?"
Seeker drew his three cards, then sent two of them to the GY. His hand now contained 'Right Arm of the Forbidden One', 'Left Leg of the Forbidden One', 'Right Leg of the Forbidden One', 'Swords of Revealing Light', 'Exodia the Forbidden One', 'Gear Golem the Moving Fortress', and 'Tribute to The Doomed'.
"In my Deck, I have three sets of 'Exodia' cards," thought Seeker, "Now I have four of the cards. All I'm missing is 'Left Arm of the Forbidden One." It was then a face-down card materialized on the field near his feet, "I Set one card face-down and end my turn!"
(elsewhere…)
Inside the technician chamber of Boxford Corp…
"He uses a strange strategy," remarked Spencer.
"His name is Seeker, and he didn't exist in our database until about a week ago," revealed Girl 3, before looking at Spencer and Skiff, "He must have hacked in and entered himself into the system."
"But that's illegal!" protested Skiff.
"The Rare Hunter's cards aren't even registered," reported Girl 2.
"What?!" cried Spencer, "Are they 'God' Cards?!"
"No, they're counterfeit cards," denied Girl 1.
"What?! Hacking into our database is bad enough," said Skiff angrily, turning to leave, "But using counterfeit cards? That makes it worse! He should be disqualified!"
"Hold on, Skiff," rebutted Spencer calmly, causing Skiff to stop. He appeared intrigued in seeing how the duel would play out, "Interesting… Let him continue," In his thoughts… "I figured out exactly what his Deck is about."
(elsewhere…)
Back in the town square, Seeker and Thomas faced each other and the former kept thinking about how unbeatable his Deck was due to 'Exodia the Forbidden One' being the main headliner of it.
"Keep thinking. Your time is running out anyway," thought Seeker, "With my special contact lenses, I can see the invisible paint on the back of my cards, so I know which card is at the top of my Deck!" Looking at the top card, a sudden flash of a Monster Card was briefly seen by him and only him, "I will draw 'Left Arm of the Forbidden One' on my next turn, and 'Exodia' will be completed! There's no way you can win! Every strategy is powerless against 'Exodia'!"
Back in the stands, Paxton appeared worried over what Thomas was facing when…
"Thomas won't win," Diesel assumed bluntly.
"Why do you say that?" frowned Paxton, sounding offended.
"Because whoever this guy is," answered Diesel, "he obviously has something big planned even if all he does is play defensive and draw cards," He (Diesel) looked towards Paxton, "Even I know that."
Percy, Emily, and Edward were still watching the duel—and the first was growing more and more distressed with each passing second.
"Thomas has no idea what he's up against," Percy thought to himself, "I want to warn him, but I can't risk losing 'Red-Eyes' forever."
Back on the field…
"Don't you see, boy?" mocked Seeker, "Your only monster can't even touch my LP!"
"I do see it," corrected Thomas, "But I'll get through to them one way or another!"
Finally, Percy couldn't hold it in any longer and decided to speak up.
"Stop the duel!" shouted Percy, running towards the field and causing Thomas to look over, "I won't let you risk losing your 'Dark Magician', Thomas! What's the point of playing with Rare Hunters?"
"I'm going to finish the duel and play honestly," vowed Thomas, "A True Duelist never cares about who he's playing with."
"I don't care!" refused Percy, "These guys are nothing but bad news!"
"I warn you!" threatened Seeker, "One more word out of you and your 'Red-Eyes' is as good as gone!"
"You know what? Do what you want!" snapped Percy, "I won't standby and let you mock my best friend just because you beat me," He (Percy) faced Thomas once more, "Thomas, please, just stop this duel before he Summons-"
"SHUT UP, PERCY!" The voice of Thomas cut in, particularly sharply.
Everyone, even Percy, was taken aback by Thomas's outburst.
"Thomas," whispered Percy.
"You mustn't tell me the Rare Hunter's strategy," reminded Thomas, talking more calmly, "Believe me, I will defeat him."
"But-!" Percy tried saying.
That was when Emily spoke up to help back Thomas's words up.
"He's right, Percy," admitted Emily, "We have to trust Thomas that he will win."
And right around then Edward also began to speak up.
"He's also fighting to win back your 'Red-Eyes', Percy," he agreed, "Remember how much that card means to you since you got it from Dennis?"
"I do…" remembered Percy.
A flashback ensued.
FLASHBACK
A clip of Percy defeating Dennis and winning 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' from him in San Francisco was shown, followed by clips of his various duel successes using the card in various duels.
"Ever since I got 'Red-Eyes'," narrated Percy, "I felt like I had become a much better duelist than I had started out as."
One series of clips showed 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' fusing with Thomas's 'Summoned Skull' in order to Fusion Summon 'Black Skull Dragon' against the Paradox Brothers. Another clip showed Percy using 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' against James in the semi-finals of the San Francisco tournament.
"It was as if my soul had been ignited by the card's drive," Percy went on.
END FLASHBACK
The flashback ended and Percy continued to think.
"'Red-Eyes' has been there for me ever since," thought Percy, "Now Thomas has to be there for me to get it back," With newfound faith in his best friend, he (Percy) looked to Thomas, "Okay, I'll let you handle it."
Thomas smiled and looked back at the smirking Seeker firmly in his thoughts.
"I'm fighting to protect Percy's card," thought Thomas, "All this guy cares about is taking rare cards from innocent people. He seems almost as crazed as the guy Spencer dueled with the 'Exodia' Deck," Suddenly, he realized something about his opponent, "Wait a minute, 'Exodia'!" Suddenly, now grinning confidently, he spoke aloud, "I'm onto your strategy, Rare Hunter."
"Huh?" puzzled Seeker.
"But as good as it is, it won't work!" thundered Thomas, as he pointed forth dramatically, "I won't let you Summon 'Exodia the Forbidden One'!"
"NO! HOW DID HE KNOW?!" screamed Seeker, shocked.
"An 'Exodia' Deck?!" gasped Diesel.
In the stands, Percy felt pleased that now his best friend knew what was happening. Back on the field, Seeker recovered from his shocked outburst to do some gloating.
"You may have figured out my strategy," he stated. "But you'll still never be able to defeat the mighty 'Exodia'! I already have most of the parts in my hand, with the last one being all I need to complete the trinity! There's nothing you can do to stop me."
"I know someone who already did," smirked Thomas, "If Spencer Gresley can beat 'Exodia', then so can I!"
Everyone in the crowd looked worried (except for Diesel, Dennis, 'Arry, and Bert) that Thomas could possibly lose to this man with the 'Exodia' Deck. Percy, Edward, and Emily each held onto hope that Thomas would be able to pull out a win against the game's most powerful monster.
"You can't win!" announced Seeker victoriously, as an image of him (Seeker) and 'Exodia the Forbidden One' loomed in the sky over Thomas and 'Chimera the Flying Mythical Beast', "On my next turn, this hunt will be done! Your 'Dark Magician' will belong to me, and you will be removed from the tournament! It's all over!"
(elsewhere…)
Back inside the technician chamber of Boxford Corp, Spencer had stopped Skiff from leaving to try stopping the battle between Thomas and Seeker—due to the latter cheating with fake cards.
"Big Brother, this duel can't go on," protested Skiff.
"I'm interested to see how Billinton can handle an 'Exodia' Deck. Let them continue," proclaimed Spencer.
"But as the head of the public comity… shouldn't we do something? Do you want Thomas to lose to that guy?"
"Billinton won't lose," The silver-haired boy reassured, causing Skiff to stop, "He won't be taken down by an opponent like this," He entered his thoughts, "But if Billinton does somehow lose, I can no longer acknowledge him as my true rival."
(elsewhere…)
Back in Knapford City's town square, Thomas and Seeker were both locked in a staring match as their duel continued. These were the current standings:
-Thomas (LP: 4000): Controlled 'Chimera the Flying Mythical Beast' (Level: 6/ATK: 2100/DEF: 1800), 'Light of Intervention' (Trap Card), and a Set card.
-Seeker (LP: 4000): Controlled 'Stone Statue of the Aztecs' (Level: 4/ATK: 300/DEF: 2000), 'Avatar of The Pot' (Level: 3/ATK: 1200/DEF: 1300), and a Set card.
"Kid, I praise you for seeing through my plan," praised Seeker falsely, "However, the next card I draw will be the fifth piece… 'Left Arm of the Forbidden One'," As he (Seeker) rambled on, the crowd listened to him while worried for Thomas, "On my next turn, 'Exodia' will be complete! What can you possibly do in one turn?"
"We'll see about that," dismissed Thomas, drawing a card, "It's my turn!"
Turn Five: Thomas Billinton (LP: 4000)
Deck: 51
Current Hand (3): "Skull Archfiend of Lightning", "Gamma The Magnet Warrior", and "Chain Destruction"
Adding the drawn card into his hand, Thomas picked another card and placed it onto his Duel Disk.
"I Summon 'Gamma The Magnet Warrior' in Attack Position!" began Thomas.
Appearing on the field was a Magnet-like monster colored pink (Level: 4/ATK: 1500/DEF: 1800).
"Battle!" Thomas went on, entering the Battle Phase, "With the effect of 'Threatening Roar' no longer in effect, I can attack your monsters!" As he gave the command, 'Chimera the Flying Mythical Beast' rushed into combat, "Chimera Impact Dash!"
'Chimera the Flying Mythical Beast' pounced onto 'Stone Statue of the Aztecs', destroying the weaker monster in an instant. The crowd cheered in response—but it was too soon to be celebrating as no damage was dealt to Seeker.
"My 'Gamma The Magnet Warrior' will now attack 'Avatar of The Pot'!" ordered Thomas.
'Gamma The Magnet Warrior' obeyed, punching 'Avatar of The Pot' and destroying it in an instant.
"Now your field is empty, Rare Hunter," warned Thomas, "Next turn, I'll be able to attack you directly."
"Ah ha ha ha ha ha! Your turn is over already?!" cackled Seeker, "What's wrong? Did you try your best already to destroy the defending monster?" He looked at the top of his Deck, again seeing the reflection of a certain Monster Card, "I see it, I can see my victory. Once I draw this card you're finished."
"Hold on a minute," called Thomas, causing Seeker to look up, "I never said my turn has actually ended."
"W-What?!" cringed Seeker.
"I still have one more card to play before that happens," explained Thomas, holding his right hand out, "Trap Card, 'Time Seal', activate!"
The face-down card flipped face-up and revealed itself.
"What was that? 'Time Seal'?!" panicked Seeker.
"I must skip the Draw Phase of my opponent's next turn," Thomas said, not about to let Seeker draw a card and Summon 'Exodia the Forbidden One', "Now you can't draw a card until the Draw Phase of your next turn!"
"So you've saved yourself for now," thought Seeker, still confident he could win as he spotted a strong card in his hand, "Big deal! My 'Gear Golem the Moving Fortress' can still withstand your 'Chimera the Flying Mythical Beast's' attack."
Turn Six: Seeker (LP: 4000)
Deck: 24
Current Hand (6): "Right Arm of the Forbidden One", "Left Leg of the Forbidden One", "Right Leg of the Forbidden One", "Swords of Revealing Light", "Exodia the Forbidden One", and "Gear Golem the Moving Fortress"
Just then, a card ('Sinister Serpent') ejected from his GY—which he took and held up.
"Once more, as it's my Standby Phase, I'll add 'Sinister Serpent' into my hand," Seeker pointed out. Suddenly, he pressed a button on his Duel Disk, "I'll use it to great effect with this rare card!" On cue, the face-down card flipped face-up and revealed itself to be 'Tribute to The Doomed', "Spell Card, 'Tribute to The Doomed', activate! I must discard 1 card, then target 1 monster on the field; I must destroy it!"
Back with the crowd…
"He'll discard 'Sinister Serpent' for this effect," Edward was saying, "That way, the Rare Hunter will regain it during his Standby Phase."
"Did I mention that card is busted?" whined Percy.
"More like I did," rebutted Dennis.
Back on the field, bandages emerged from the ground around 'Chimera the Flying Mythical Beast' and wrapped themselves around the monster, taking it underground to its demise. Seeker chuckled over the sight.
"By sending 'Sinister Serpent' back to the GY, I've destroyed 'Chimera'!" boasted Seeker.
"But by doing so, the monster effect of 'Chimera' activates!" insisted Thomas, much to Seeker's surprise. He then took a random card from his GY and held it up, "When this card is destroyed: I can target 1 'Berfomet' or 1 'Gazelle the King of Mythical Beasts' in my GY; I must Special Summon that target!" The card ('Gazelle the King of Mythical Beasts') was turned over and revealed, "I Special Summon 'Gazelle the King of Mythical Beasts'!"
Reappearing on the field was 'Gazelle the King of Mythical Beasts' (Level: 4/ATK: 1500/DEF: 1200).
"What does it matter?" teased Seeker, "Your weak monsters will never get by this one!" He placed a card ('Gear Golem the Moving Fortress') onto a Monster Zone on his Duel Disk (sideways), causing the device to light up, "'Gear Golem the Moving Fortress' in Defense Position!"
Appearing on the field was a mechanical monster with a large shield capable of protecting it from most weak attacks (Level: 4/ATK: 800/DEF: 2200). Over with the crowd…
"Thomas was able to stop that guy drawing the final 'Exodia' piece this turn," commented Paxton, before looking at Diesel, "Isn't this exciting, Diesel?"
"Not really. I wanted to see Thomas get stomped by 'Exodia'," snorted Diesel.
"Oh, Diesel."
Percy, Edward, and Emily also had some words to say about Thomas surviving the turn.
"It was lucky he was able to stop that Rare Hunter from drawing 'Exodia'," acknowledged Edward, "But unless he does something before the Rare Hunter's next turn, he'll be done for."
"Isn't there a way for Thomas to at least get rid of one of the pieces in that Rare Hunter's hand?" pleaded Emily.
"If he draws the right card now, then yes," replied Edward.
"Come on, Thomas," whispered Percy, "You can do this."
Back on the field…
"Make your final move, kid!" demanded Seeker, "I end my turn!"
Thomas braced two fingers onto his Deck, looking at it in deep thought.
"This is it," Thomas told himself, mentally, "If I don't draw the correct card now, then 'Red-Eyes' will remain with this Rare Hunter, I will be out of the tournament, my 'Dark Magician' will be taken from me, and I'll never find the answers I seek," He closed his eyes for a moment, "Please, Heart of the Cards, grant me your strength…"
Opening his eyes, Thomas drew a card with a Destiny Draw.
Turn Seven: Thomas Billinton (LP: 4000)
Deck: 50
Current Hand (3): "Skull Archfiend of Lightning", "Chain Destruction", and "Lightforce Sword"
Looking at his drawn card, Thomas made his play.
"I activate the Quick-Play Spell, 'Lightforce Sword'!" announced Thomas, slotting the card into his Duel Disk and causing the mentioned Spell Card to materialize face-up on the field, "This is my final gamble!"
"'Lightforce Sword'?" The Rare Hunter blinked.
"I must banish 1 random card from my opponent's hand, face-down. During my opponent's 3rd Standby Phase after this card's activation, I must return that card to their hand," explained Thomas, "I'm aiming for a piece of 'Exodia'!"
"I see," grinned Seeker, "That can help you nullify 'Exodia' even for a temporary amount of time," He brought his hand up, "Too bad the card is picked randomly."
A sword materialized out of Thomas's 'Lightforce Sword' Spell Card.
"If I choose the wrong card, then it will all be for nothing," thought Thomas, "I have to get the right piece of 'Exodia'."
(elsewhere…)
Inside Boxford Corp, Spencer and Skiff were both watching the duel as the girls went on with tracking the 'Egyptian God' Cards.
"You think Thomas will pick the right card?" asked Skiff.
"I have confidence that he will," Spencer answered, looking serious. "Because if I can beat 'Exodia', then so can Billinton—only someone like him and I can be worthy enough to do so."
Skiff nodded to his Big Brother and resumed watching the duel.
(elsewhere…)
Back in Knapford City, Thomas finally made the command.
"FIRE!" ordered Thomas.
The sword from the 'Lightforce Sword' Spell Card fired off towards Seeker's hand. Everyone braced themselves as the sword struck a card. To their surprise and relief, Seeker screamed in outrage at what card was pierced.
"You've pierced 'Right Arm of the Forbidden One'!" shouted Seeker, as the card was locked down on the ground near the furious Rare Hunter as he faced the opponent, "Damn you! You've saved yourself again!"
Everyone in the crowd (except for Diesel, 'Arry, Bert, and Dennis) breathed a sigh of relief.
"And now to deal with your 'Golem'," vowed Thomas, holding up another card ('Skull Archfiend of Lightning'). "By Tributing 'Gazelle', I'll Tribute Summon!"
He placed the card onto the occupied Monster Zone on his Duel Disk, causing 'Gazelle the King of Mythical Beasts' to fade away in a blue streak. Appearing on the field in the previous monster's place was a whole new monster.
"Creator of chaos, formed from the apparitions of ten thousand nightmares! Conquer the light and let the shadows permeate this realm!" chanted Thomas, as the limbs of the monster were skeletal in nature, "Appear now, 'Skull Archfiend of Lightning'!"
The Fiend monster, 'Skull Archfiend of Lightning', resembled 'Summoned Skull', but was more creepy and a retrained version of the original (Level: 6/ATK: 2500/DEF: 1200).
"Go, 'Skull Archfiend'!" bellowed Thomas, as 'Skull Archfiend of Lightning' charged itself in yellow lightning, "Destroy 'Gear Golem the Moving Fortress'! Furious Shock!"
'Skull Archfiend of Lightning' fired the electricity off. The lightning struck and destroyed 'Gear Golem the Moving Fortress'.
"Now you're defenseless!" raged Thomas, as 'Gamma The Magnet Warrior' rushed towards Seeker, "'Gamma The Magnet Warrior', attack the opponent directly!"
"It's not that easy!" refused Seeker, as his GY started glowing, "Watch carefully!"
Suddenly, appearing on the field was a Warrior monster that resembled more of the Fiend-Type. 'Gamma The Magnet Warrior' punched and took it down, but Seeker was left undamaged.
"What?! What was that monster?" cried Thomas.
"An Effect Monster known as 'Necro Gardna'," replied Seeker, "During my opponent's turn (Quick Effect): I can banish this card from my GY; I must negate the next attack this turn from a monster my opponent controls."
"I end my turn…" scowled Thomas, but recovered enough to do some gloating of his own, "But even if you draw the last card part on your next turn, you still can't complete 'Exodia'!"
Seeker gritted his teeth before drawing a card without a word.
Turn Eight: Seeker (LP: 4000)
Deck: 23
Current Hand (5): "Left Leg of the Forbidden One", "Right Leg of the Forbidden One", "Swords of Revealing Light", "Exodia the Forbidden One", and "Left Arm of the Forbidden One"
Lightforce Sword: Three Turns
As expected, it was a copy of 'Left Arm of the Forbidden One'.
"I've drawn the 'Left Arm', but with the 'Right Arm' currently banished, I can't declare an automatic win," thought Seeker unhappily, "But I'll still win this duel," On cue, the 'Sinister Serpent' Effect Monster Card was taken from the GY and placed into his hand, "Due to 'Sinister Serpent's' effect, I add the card into my hand during my Standby Phase."
"So what will your action for the turn be?" urged Thomas, "With the 'Right Arm' banished for the next three of your turns, you can't Summon 'Exodia'," He (Thomas) then heard quiet laughter coming from Seeker, "Huh?"
Soon, Seeker was laughing hysterically, much to the annoyance of Percy.
"Sheesh, what's with him?" grumbled Percy, "Was the shock of 'Lightforce Sword' too much for him?"
Back on the field, Seeker stopped laughing to speak up.
"I expected you to figure out my strategy of gathering the parts of 'Exodia'!" gloated Seeker, "Only someone like you could figure it out before it was too late."
"What'd you say?" frowned Thomas.
"You didn't think I'd have a backup plan to stop your 'Exodia'-sealing strategy?" berated Seeker, before taking and slotting a card into his Duel Disk, "Take this! 'Swords of Revealing Light'!"
The mentioned Spell Card materialized face-up and rose up from behind Seeker, causing countless swords of light to rain down onto Thomas's whole field.
"Not the swords!" panicked Thomas.
"While this card is face-up on the field, my opponent's monsters cannot declare an attack," said Seeker, revealing his card's second effect, "After my third End Phase passes, this card will be destroyed!"
"Oh no!" worried Emily, sounding distressed.
"Thomas was so close!" added Percy, "Now that Rare Hunter has the time he needs to complete 'Exodia'!"
(elsewhere…)
Back in Boxford Corp…
"Big Brother, Thomas is really going to lose!" flailed Skiff.
"No, he won't. In fact, the real battle has just got started," reassured Spencer, before entering his thoughts again, "Now then. If you're my true rival, show me your abilities, Billinton!"
(elsewhere…)
Back in Knapford City's town square…
"I'll find a way around your swords," promised Thomas firmly, as he drew a card, "Card drawn."
Turn Nine: Thomas Billinton (LP: 4000)
Deck: 49
Current Hand (2): "Chain Destruction" and "Dark Red Enchanter"
Swords of Revealing Light: Three Turns
Just then…
"Once, during my Standby Phase," Thomas went on, losing some LP (LP: 4000 → 3500), "I have to pay 500 LP or risk destroying 'Skull Archfiend'."
"A pricey monster you have there," joked Seeker, "Plus it's not optional!" As he rambled on, the crowd listened to him in disgust, "You'll likely have to get rid of it before it's too late!"
"I Tribute 'Gamma The Magnet Warrior'!" cut in Thomas, ignoring Seeker while placing a new card ('Dark Red Enchanter') onto the occupied Monster Zone on the Duel Disk, "I Tribute Summon 'Dark Red Enchanter'!"
'Gamma The Magnet Warrior' faded away in a blue streak, and appearing onto the field in its place was a female Spellcaster monster dressed in dark red clothing and a large yellow scepter (Level: 6/ATK: 1700/DEF: 2200).
"If this card is Normal Summoned: I must place 2 Spell Counters on it," revealed Thomas, going over his monster's first effect before focus went towards 'Dark Red Enchanter' as the second effect was spoken of, "Each time a Spell Card is activated, I must place 1 Spell Counter on this card when that Spell resolves," He then revealed the third effect of the monster, "It gains 300 ATK for each Spell Counter on it."
Glowing purple, 'Dark Red Enchanter' swung her scepter around and gained more ATK (ATK: 1700 → 2300).
"Ha! What good would that even do?" scoffed Seeker, "Thanks to 'Swords of Revealing Light', none of your monsters can attack me!"
"You're wrong," rebutted Thomas, "I have a way to attack you."
"Huh?"
"The Spell Counters on 'Dark Red Enchanter' do much more than grant her additional ATK," The blue-haired boy pointed out, "They're the key to her ultimate power, her fourth effect!" As he explained away, 'Dark Red Enchanter' released the two Spell Counters from her body and moved them to her scepter, "Once per turn: I can remove 2 Spell Counters from this card; I must discard 1 random card from my opponent's hand!"
Giving up her gained power (ATK: 2300 → 1700), 'Dark Red Enchanter' swung her scepter and unleashed a magical blast at Seeker, striking a random card in his hand and making it disintegrate.
"N-No! You've destroyed "Left Leg of the Forbidden One'!" objected Seeker, further furious, but recovered enough to smile, "But that's still worthless! I carry three copies of each 'Exodia' part! Sooner or later, I'll draw another piece of 'Exodia', ensuring I can Summon the monster of your doom!"
"I Set one card face-down…" As Thomas spoke, he slotted a card into his Duel Disk, "…and end my turn."
A face-down card materialized on the field behind 'Skull Archfiend of Lightning'. With the crowd…
"Geez, Thomas has more lives than my cat," complained Diesel.
"And now it all ends here!" The voice of Seeker interrupted. Back on the field, he was shown drawing his card, "Draw card!"
Turn Ten: Seeker (LP: 4000)
Deck: 22
Current Hand (5): "Right Leg of the Forbidden One", "Exodia the Forbidden One", "Left Arm of the Forbidden One", "Sinister Serpent", and "Change of Heart"
Lightforce Sword: Two Turns
His drawn card was a Spell Card called 'Change of Heart', a perfect card to deal significant damage.
"Not what I need, but still should be helpful," Seeker told himself, holding his card ('Change of Heart') out, "I activate the Spell Card, Change of Heart!"
The mentioned Spell Card materialized face-up on the field behind 'Skull Archfiend of Lightning'.
"I must target 1 monster my opponent controls; I must take control of it until the End Phase!" beamed Seeker, "Prepare to be attacked by your own monster; by none other than 'Skull Archfiend of Lightning'!"
"Wrong!" denied Thomas, "As of now, I'll activate 'Skull Archfiend's' special ability!"
"What?!" freaked out Seeker.
Before the effect of the 'Change of Heart' Spell Card could resolve, 'Skull Archfiend of Lightning' raised both arms up and summoned a large die above its hands.
"When resolving an opponent's card effect that targets this card, I must roll a six-sided die and negate that effect if you roll a 1, 3, or 6, and if I do, destroy that card," explained Thomas, as 'Skull Archfiend of Lightning' threw the die, "Go, Dice Roll!"
The die shot up into the air before coming back down to the ground. Thomas watched anxiously while Seeker watched gleefully, thinking the outcome would be in his favor. Finally, the rolling die stopped and landed…on a six.
"It's a six!" acknowledged Thomas, as 'Skull Archfiend of Lightning' kept its arms raised and charged electricity, "'Skull Archfiend', counter!"
'Skull Archfiend of Lighting' fired some lightning, striking and destroying the face-up 'Change of Heart' Spell Card behind it. That prevented Seeker from taking control of it for a temporary amount of time. Seeker was enraged by it, but only briefly.
"Where's that confidence you had once before?" screeched Seeker, "Thinking of a plan for when 'Lightforce Sword' wears off? You're not gonna make it in time thanks to 'Swords of Revealing Light'!"
Thomas didn't respond back.
"You heard me say it once before, but I'll say it again; I have three sets of the 'Exodia' parts in my Deck!" bragged Seeker, "That means, I can still draw two more copies of the 'Right Arm' and 'Left Leg'. I'll get my victory before your sword even wears off!"
Thomas finally responded; he did so by smirking and chuckling scornfully.
"What's so funny?!" snapped Seeker.
"'Swords of Revealing Light' is a troublesome card indeed," agreed Thomas, "But it's not like it's unbreakable."
"Then go ahead and try," dared Seeker hatefully.
"Will I break your Spell Card first…? Or will you draw the final part needed before I can?" pondered Thomas, before pointing at the opponent, "Either way, this match…will be decided in just a few more turns!" He drew a card, "Card drawn!"
Turn Eleven: Thomas Billinton (LP: 3500)
Deck: 48
Current Hand (1): "Dust Tornado"
Swords of Revealing Light: Two Turns
Thomas looked at his drawn card as he took another LP hit (LP: 3500 → 3000). He soon looked up grimly.
"Ah ha! You didn't draw anything remotely helpful!" taunted Seeker.
"Don't count me out just yet," sighed Thomas, "My strategy to destroy 'Exodia' will not even require me to attack. Besides, you have so many 'Exodia' cards in your Deck that drawing the one piece you'll need to win will be quite hard."
Seeker knew Thomas was right; he had three copies of each piece of 'Exodia the Forbidden One', thus making it difficult to draw the exact piece he needed.
"I Set one card face-down and finish my turn," concluded Thomas, slotting his card into his Duel Disk.
A face-down card materialized on the field behind 'Dark Red Enchanter'.
"It's my turn!" worried Seeker, drawing a card, "Draw!"
Turn Twelve: Seeker (LP: 4000)
Deck: 21
Current Hand (5): "Right Leg of the Forbidden One", "Exodia the Forbidden One", "Left Arm of the Forbidden One", "Sinister Serpent", and "Exodia the Forbidden One"
Lightforce Sword: One Turn
He had drawn a second copy of 'Exodia the Forbidden One', which wasn't what he needed at the moment.
"Another copy of the head," Seeker thought top himself, "But it makes little difference… There's no need for me to rush since he can't attack me."
Emily, Edward, and Percy each noticed that Seeker was now looking particularly nervous.
"It looks like Thomas has him on the ropes," remarked Percy, "He can't think of a way out."
Back on the field…
"Let me tell you the greatest weakness of your 'Exodia' Deck," offered Thomas, getting Seeker's attention. While speaking, five images of each of the parts of 'Exodia the Forbidden One' loomed in the background in a star-shaped formation, "'Exodia' is a very special card made up of the five different 'Sealed Cards' in your hand. In order to increase the drawing rate of the card parts, you have to continuously play cards from your hand."
Looking down at his hand, Seeker cringed upon realizing that Thomas had made a very good point.
"The 'Exodia' Deck's greatest weakness is…you wind up playing no monsters on the field!" stated Thomas sternly, as Seeker saw that his (Seeker) field was empty of monsters, "Look! Your field's wide open!" Focus then went towards 'Skull Archfiend of Lightning' (ATK: 2500), then 'Dark Red Enchanter' (ATK: 1700), "The ATK of both my monsters exceeds 4000!" He grinned, "If I attack you with both of my monsters, you'll be wiped out!"
"You bluff…!" hissed Seeker.
"That so? We'll see about that…" retorted Thomas, "You're about to experience this battle strength first hand!"
With the crowd…
"Thomas…" murmured Percy.
Back on the field…
"Percy, watch carefully," thought Thomas, "This duel's match is determined by whoever believes in themselves more."
Seeker fumed a little bit before observing his hand one more time.
"It's true that I have no monsters on the field…" thought Seeker, "But 'Swords of Revealing Light's' effect hasn't worn off yet…"
"So, what's wrong?" mocked Thomas.
"Who knew that kid would know the weakness?" thought Seeker, looking at his hand again—particularly one of the two 'Exodia the Forbidden One' Effect Monster Cards, "I can use the double 'Exodia' parts in my hand to protect myself," He took one of the cards and prepared to play it, "So in the small chance he's able to destroy 'Swords of Revealing Light' next turn… he still can't successfully attack me… I shouldn't be at a disadvantage!"
Thomas raised an eyebrow, as a piece of 'Exodia the Forbidden One' appeared on the field in a defensive stance (Level: 3/ATK: 1000/DEF: 1000).
"'Exodia the Forbidden One' in Defense Position!" The voice of Seeker announced, as the above scenario partially played out, "Now I have protection from your attack!"
"Looks like you're playing so many 'Exodia' cards that you barely have anything else worth playing!" scolded Thomas, smiling slightly and worrying Seeker. It was then he got serious, "I've been waiting for this moment! Trap Card, open!" His first Set card flipped face-up and revealed itself, "'Chain Destruction'!"
"'C-Chain Destruction'?!" gasped Seeker.
"When a monster(s) with 2000 or less ATK is Summoned: I must target 1 of them; I must destroy all cards with that name in its controller's hand and Main Deck!" The voice of Thomas explained, as, from the face-up 'Chain Destruction' Trap Card, a chain fired, piercing through 'Exodia the Forbidden One' and striking the Deck Zone of the Duel Disk. He narrowed his eyes, "Vanish, 'Exodia'!"
The two remaining copies of 'Exodia the Forbidden One' in Seeker's hand and Deck were destroyed, and with the first being on the field, Seeker was scared and stunned.
"The 'Exodia' cards need to be gathered together," recalled Thomas, "Even if you have other parts in your hand, you can no longer create 'Exodia'!"
"This isn't possible!" thought Seeker, as 'Exodia the Forbidden One' appeared to be decaying in the background, "He managed to defeat the unbeatable 'Exodia'!"
"But I'm not done," warned Thomas, "As punishment for hurting my best friend, I will end you on this turn!" He pressed a button on his Duel Disk, "Face-down card, open!" His remaining Set card flipped face-up and revealed itself, "'Dust Tornado'! I must target 1 Spell/Trap my opponent controls; I must destroy that target, then I can Set 1 Spell/Trap from my hand," A tornado on the field ensued, destroying the remaining light swords, "I destroy 'Swords of Revealing Light'!"
With the 'Swords of Revealing Light' Spell Card destroyed, Thomas's monsters were now free to attack on command.
"No!" wailed Seeker, "You couldn't have done it! No one has ever been able to beat 'Exodia' before!"
"This is the last turn!" said Thomas, drawing a card, "Draw!"
Turn Thirteen: Thomas Billinton (LP: 3000)
Deck: 47
Current Hand (1): "Monster Reborn"
He grimaced as he took a LP hit (LP: 3000 → 2500), but, right now, it didn't matter much to him.
"I activate the Normal Spell!" Thomas took his newly drawn card from his hand and slotted it into his Duel Disk. "'Monster Reborn'!" On cue, 'Chimera the Flying Mythical Beast' reappeared on the field (Level: 6/ATK: 2100/DEF: 1800), "Resurrect, 'Chimera'!"
"Now Thomas has three monsters while that Rare Hunter only has one!" cheered Emily.
Poor (not) Seeker could do nothing but scream in despair as he was about to lose the duel.
"'Dark Red Enchanter'!" commanded Thomas, entering the Battle Phase, "Destroy 'Exodia' for good! Dark-Red Shockwave!"
'Dark Red Enchanter' obeyed, aiming and firing a red energy blast from her scepter, striking and destroying 'Exodia the Forbidden One'.
"With your last monster gone, you'll be wiped out with two direct hits!" raged Thomas, as 'Skull Archfiend of Lightning' unleashed Furious Shock upon Seeker—followed by 'Chimera the Flying Mythical Beast' hitting the enemy with Chimera Impact Dash, "'Chimera', 'Skull Archfiend', attack the Rare Hunter directly!"
Seeker did not know what hit him and was quickly thrown onto his back (LP: 4000 → 0).
DUEL RESULTS: Thomas Billinton wins!
Despite being an enemy of Thomas, Diesel couldn't help but look both surprised and impressed.
"He actually did it," breathed Diesel.
The holograms disappeared as everybody else began cheering for Thomas.
"Thomas actually beat 'Exodia'!" cheered Oliver.
"And he didn't even need the help of his two ace monsters to do it, Mr. Oliver," added Toad, Oliver's younger brother.
While everybody was cheering for Thomas, none of them noticed Diesel sneaking up on Seeker, who's Deck spilled from the Duel Disk onto the ground.
"You won't be needing these anymore," he grinned deviously, while getting onto the ground and beginning picking up the dropped 'Exodia'-related cards, "Come to papa!"
(elsewhere…)
Inside Boxford Corp headquarter's bridge, Spencer and Skiff both finished watching the duel between Thomas and Seeker on the big computer screen when the latter began to speak to the former.
"Thomas actually got to beat that Rare Hunter!" cheered Skiff.
"Not that I'm surprised by it," scoffed Spencer, "Those weren't really 'Exodia' cards Billinton was facing." He then turned around to leave, "I'm off to join the tournament. Skiff, you go and scout around the city and make sure that no more cheaters are found."
"Right, Spencer," obeyed Skiff. He then turned to the computer-using girls, "Be sure to note us if anybody uses an 'Egyptian God' Card."
"Yes, Master Skiff," nodded Girl 2.
And thus, the two boys left the bridge.
(elsewhere…)
Back in the town square, Thomas approached and picked up a card lying on the ground. It was the 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' Normal Monster Card.
"As per the Battle City rules, I'll be taking Percy's 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' back and one of your Locator Cards," informed Thomas firmly.
Just then, Diesel's angry voice could be heard.
"HEY! WHAT THE HECK IS WRONG WITH THESE CARDS?!" The voice of Diesel exclaimed.
Everybody looked in Diesel's direction.
"What do you mean, Diesel?" peeped Paxton.
"That's what I said! These cards that guy has are nothing but fakes!" seethed Diesel, "It's like he never even had 'Exodia' in the first place."
Thomas walked over, and Diesel handed him (Thomas) the cards. After looking over them and rubbing his fingers on the surface of the cards, he scowled.
"He's right," realized Thomas, not taking his eyes off the 'Exodia' cards, "They feel like cheap newspapers, and there's some weird ink rubbing off my fingers. These cards ARE fake!"
Everyone was shocked and disgusted to learn that Seeker never had three sets of 'Exodia' and merely cheated.
"He cheated!" shouted Emily.
"He should be ejected from the tournament!" requested Paxton.
In a fit of anger, Thomas tore the fifteen fake 'Exodia' cards up into pieces.
"Now no one can use these fake cards again!" declared Thomas, once he tossed the card remains into the air.
"You, sir," scolded Edward, as Seeker remained on the ground, "are nothing more than a thief, a liar, and a cheater."
"I lost…" muttered Seeker, starting to move again, "My…ultimate Deck…" Suddenly, as he returned to his feet, he screamed and started going mad, "N-No, master! Please don't be angry!"
"What's going on?" Paxton asked nervously.
"I don't know," gulped Diesel, as he turned to flee, "but I'm getting out of here!"
Dennis, 'Arry, and Bert each followed their best friend and leader, while Seeker continued to go mad.
"What's going on?" fretted Emily, sounding scared.
"Y-Yeah, he's acting weird," stammered Percy.
"I've seen this happen before," Thomas mumbled, recalling the same thing happening to Diesel 10, "Who is this?"
Suddenly, Seeker let out a quiet laugh (with a mix of voices), as a new voice started speaking in his place.
"We meet again, Thomas Billinton," greeted Seeker (possessed), "The great duelist who won the San Francisco tournament. The man you faced was the weakest of the Rare Hunters. Us Ghouls have much more strength than that!"
"Hey, what's he talking about?" whispered Percy.
"Whoops. I didn't mean to surprise you," joked Seeker (possessed), "The man speaking with you isn't the one before you." An image of Marik was superimposed over him (Seeker), "I'm in a place a bit further away. I've implanted a bit of myself in him. So I can control him whenever I want. For example… something like this…"
Suddenly, Seeker (possessed) started dancing around in a creepy fashion, further freaking Percy out.
"This guy's creeping me out!" whimpered Percy.
"Who are you?" demanded Thomas.
"I'm one of the ones chosen by the Millennium Items," answered Seeker (possessed).
(elsewhere…)
In an unknown location in another part of the world, Marik sat on his throne while armed with the glowing Millennium Rod.
"I'm controlling everything he does, with the power of the Millennium Rod!"
(elsewhere…)
Back in Knapford City…
"Millennium Rod?!" questioned Thomas.
It was then he remembered Ishizu's words about an unknown enemy coming for him.
"An enemy will soon appear before you," The voice of Ishizu echoed, "And that person will wield a new Millennium Item."
(elsewhere…)
In the unknown location…
"In any case, I was merely introducing myself," assured Marik, "My name is Marik."
(elsewhere…)
Back in Knapford City, Thomas took one step forward.
"Marik!" The voice of Thomas exclaimed, as the above scenario played out. He looked very stern due to wanting answers, "What are you Rare Hunters after?!"
"To gather the three legendary rare cards that have revived in this modern world," replied Seeker (possessed), as an image of Marik appeared slightly above him (Seeker), "The 'Egyptian God' Cards!"
"'Egyptian God' Cards?" repeated Thomas.
(elsewhere…)
In the unknown location…
"According to the Ancient Egyptians, three stone slabs were said to possess the power of darkness," explained Marik, as he envision carvings of three Gods from Egyptian times on a huge slab of rock, "'Obelisk the Tormentor', 'Slifer the Sky Dragon', and 'The Winged Dragon of Ra'!" He continued to smile and explain everything he knew about them, while fire raged in the background and showed the three 'Egyptian God' monsters, "The one to gather all three 'God' Cards… and who takes the title of 'Pharaoh'... will be granted a power strong enough to control the world!"
(elsewhere…)
Back in Knapford City…
"Gain the power to control the world?" frowned Thomas.
(elsewhere…)
In the unknown location…
"We Rare Hunters have obtained two of the 'God' Cards already," confessed Marik, "And the remaining one is in the hands of someone in this town."
(elsewhere…)
Back in Knapford City…
"Thomas, the game has just started," threatened Seeker (possessed), "A Rare Hunter with a 'God' Card is already lurking in your town."
(elsewhere…)
Back in the unknown location, Marik raised the glowing Millennium Rod a little higher.
"And if you meet him, Thomas… even with your skills… it'll be instant death…" chortled Marik.
(elsewhere…)
Back in Knapford City…
"That won't happen," declined Thomas, "I'd never hand the title of "Pharaoh" or the power to rule the world to the likes of you! And even if the Rare Hunter holding a 'God' Card appears before me… I won't lose!"
Seeker (possessed) chuckled, "I'm looking forward to testing that theory."
"I need to find answers in this battle," thought Thomas, and envisioned himself facing Marik in battle, "Marik, the power of your Millennium Rod called me into battle! I will defeat you!"
(elsewhere…)
In the unknown location…
"Very well, Chosen One," accepted Marik, "The Millennium Battle has begun!"
(elsewhere…)
Back in Knapford City…
"I look forward to it…" finished Seeker (possessed).
As soon as the glowing ceased, Marik released control over Seeker, causing him to fall to the ground unconscious.
"That was so creepy," whispered Edward, before looking and checking on Seeker, "He's still alive, but we'd best let the police know about this."
Percy nodded before a card was shown to him.
"Here you go, Percy," said Thomas, "This card is yours again."
But to his surprise, Percy shook his head no.
"It isn't mine to take, Thomas," he refused.
"What?" gasped Emily, wanting to object, "But, Percy-!"
"Let him talk, Emily," Edward interrupted, "What do you mean by that, Percy?"
"I just can't take it—not at this time," replied Percy, "If I were to take it back that easily, I won't be a True Duelist. And 'Red-Eyes' wouldn't accept it, either," A thought bubble formed above him and revealed an image of Thomas and James before changing to a scene from his (Percy) duel with the latter, "You and James are both True Duelists…though you are one more-so. When I dueled James back at the San Francisco tournament, I was fighting mainly for myself," The bubble popped, and he looked dead serious, "That's why I came here. You guys always play honestly with any opponent. You really gave me a lesson—what I lacked is the player's self-esteem."
Emily and Edward both smiled as Percy went on with his passionate speech.
"'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' has always been my special card," confessed Percy, "He is and always will be my partner. That's why I can't take it now. If I did, then 'Red-Eyes' wouldn't be happy. Thomas, you can have the card temporarily," He looked into the Deck Zone of his Duel Disk, "Besides, I've prepared a new Deck for the tournament. With these cards, I'm still qualified to participate."
"That is true," nodded Edward.
"What about rare cards?" requested Emily.
"Just in case, I still have 'Flame Swordsman' and 'Time Wizard' both to wager," stated Percy, taking two cards ('Flame Swordsman' and 'Time Wizard') from his Deck and holding them both up to show Thomas, Emily, and Edward, "They are my last rare cards," He (Percy) withdrew the cards and continued addressing Thomas, "I want to become a True Duelist like you, Thomas. In Battle City, I must show you—when I win in this tournament, when I become a True Duelist, please accept a proper duel with me."
"Oh, Percy," praised Emily, smiling as tears fell from her eyes, "That was one of the most beautiful things I've ever heard you say to anyone."
"I'll take good care of your 'Red-Eyes' for the time being," smiled Thomas.
Percy smiled back as he (Percy) and Thomas shook hands, sealing the deal.
"You are the best friend I could ever ask for," praised Thomas.
"Likewise," agreed Percy, turning around, "Well, I'm off to find some duels."
"Good luck," encouraged Thomas.
Percy responded to that by giving a quick thumbs up before heading off. It was then Emily remembered that Gordon, James, Henry, Toby, and Mavis all had taken off as well.
"So, what do we do now?" wondered Emily, seeing that it was now only her, Thomas, and Edward remaining after Percy had left the group to find some duelists of his own, "It looks like we're on our own for at least today."
"I guess I'll find some duelists willing to challenge me or accept my own challenge," shrugged Thomas, "I still need four more Locator Cards to qualify for the finals."
It was official, the Battle City tournament…had begun.
What was originally a two-part chapter has now been merged into a single chapter for the definitive version with major duel changes and heavy dialogue changes mostly to better match the manga or the Japanese version of the anime.