IMPORTANT:

'Normal thoughts'

"Mind link talk"

"Normal Talk"

Electrical Television actions "That is speaking"

This is a flask back "That is speaking."

Location: Domino Streets - 08:11 AM

The low, rhythmic hum of Tristan's motorcycle filled the early morning air, punctuated by the chill of the breeze whipping past Yugi's face as he clung tightly to his friend's back. Domino City's skyline blurred around them—a streaked mosaic of slightly lit neon signs and towering buildings, each one flickering in waves of muted colour as they navigated through the bustling city streets. Yugi's jacket, a dark blue bomber with light patches on the elbows, felt too thin against the sharp wind, and he huddled a bit closer to Tristan's back, his fingers tightening on the edge of Tristan's leather jacket as he braced against the wind.

Tristan, however, seemed impervious to the chill. With a calm and practised ease, he guided the motorcycle through traffic, his dark leather jacket flaring behind him, each stud on its collar glinting briefly in the sunlight. Yugi couldn't help but admire how composed his friend was, even now, in the face of all they had experienced. Tristan's relaxed demeanour was a stark contrast to Yugi's own racing heart. They were on their way to the police station, after all, to answer questions about what had happened at the crumbling, collapsed building—a memory that hovered at the edge of Yugi's mind, like a shadow he couldn't quite shake.

Despite the cold, he shivered, but it wasn't just from the temperature. The memory of that night clawed at his thoughts, pulling him back to those terrifying moments when everything around him had threatened to fall apart. And then, like a steady hand on his shoulder, Yami's voice filled his mind—a calm, grounding presence that warned him against the chill.

Are you all right, partner? Yami's voice resonated within him, steady and strong, providing the reassurance Yugi hadn't realised he needed until he heard it.

I'm okay, Yugi replied, though he knew that Yami could sense the flicker of unease hidden beneath his answer. It's just… strange, going to the station like this. To be questioned, I mean. I didn't think we'd… well, you know.

I understand, Yami answered, his voice thoughtful, like a quiet presence pacing in the back of Yugi's mind. But remember, we didn't do anything wrong. The police simply want to understand what happened. We're here to tell what we saw. Nothing more.

Without the magic, ancient pasts and magical items Yugi thought with a frown before looking down at his hands, fingers chilled to the bone. He'd chosen his favourite fingerless gloves today, to hide some of the scratches but mostly because they reminded him of his grandfather's shop. But now, their usual charm felt more like an oversight—his hands had gone numb from the cold, and he found himself wishing he'd picked something warmer.

He leaned forward, close enough to speak above the engine's roar. "Thanks for driving me, Tristan. I know this isn't exactly a fun ride."

Tristan's laugh echoed back, hearty and reassuring. "Don't worry about it! I know my dad can be… intense sometimes. But we'll get through it, okay? And hey—next time, we'll be riding to grab burgers or something. Much better than a police station."

Yugi managed a small chuckle, though it felt subdued. "Yeah, I'd like that."

Tristan turned down a narrower road, where the city lights dimmed, and the flashing reds and blues of the police station grew visible in the distance. The streets here were quieter, lined with smaller, unassuming buildings. Yugi's heart picked up its pace, his nerves sparking with a flutter he couldn't quite control.

This must be difficult, Yami said, sensing his partner's apprehension. But you're strong, Yugi. You've faced far worse. And remember—I'll be with you every step of the way.

Yugi gave a slight nod, comforted by Yami's steady presence. He could feel his spirit's quiet strength like a pillar within him, something solid and unyielding that he could lean on, no matter how the world trembled around him. Thanks, Yami. It helps to know you're here.

As they neared the police station, Tristan slowed the bike and glanced over his shoulder. "Almost there. You ready, man?"

Yugi took a deep breath, his grip loosening slightly. "As ready as I'll ever be."

They rolled to a gentle stop outside the station, where a handful of police cars idled in the lot, their lights casting a faint red-and-blue glow over the pavement. Yugi slid off the bike, his fingers stiff as he adjusted his jacket, brushing back his windswept hair. Tristan took off his helmet and gave him a reassuring grin.

"Come on," Tristan said, giving Yugi a nudge. "Let's clear this up. My dad's probably waiting for us inside."

Yugi nodded, steadying himself. As they made their way up the stone steps and through the station's heavy glass doors, he couldn't help but glance up at the looming building, wondering what questions lay in wait for them.

Inside, the atmosphere was thick with the steady hum of activity. Officers moved back and forth with files in hand, quiet conversations and the clatter of coffee cups forming a soft yet relentless backdrop. Yugi felt his shoulders tense as he absorbed the unfamiliar environment. It was so far removed from the comforting walls of the game shop or the lively, predictable chaos of school hallways. He clutched his jacket a little tighter, as if the fabric alone could ground him in the midst of his unease.

Tristan led the way with a confidence that seemed second nature here. He exchanged casual nods and even a few friendly words with passing officers, clearly comfortable in this environment. Yugi could see why; this wasn't Tristan's first time here, and it seemed everyone knew him. Yet, for Yugi, the unfamiliarity only sharpened his anxiety as they approached a glass-walled room, where a tall, serious-looking man was waiting.

Detective Declan Taylor stood within, his broad shoulders filling the room as he waited for them. He wore a navy button-down shirt beneath a meticulously knotted tie, his expression unreadable as he reviewed a file on the table. His sharp jawline and dark hair marked the family resemblance, but there was a gravity to his gaze that Tristan's youthful confidence lacked.

Declan looked up as they entered, his stern expression softening slightly when he spotted his son. "Tristan," he greeted, his voice a deep, steady rumble that was both commanding and comforting. He reached out, gripping his son's hand in a brief, familiar shake. "Good to see you, though I wish it were under better circumstances."

Tristan's grin softened as he glanced at Yugi. "Take it easy, okay, Dad?" he murmured.

Declan nodded, his gaze shifting to Yugi. "Yugi Mutou, right?" His tone was calm yet attentive, a voice that could soothe or command with equal ease. "I understand you've been through a lot recently. Why don't you sit down and tell me what happened?"

Yugi nodded, taking a seat at the table. His fingers instinctively tightened around the edge, grounding himself as best he could. Tristan settled beside him, giving him a reassuring nod, his expression protective.

Detective Taylor studied Yugi closely, his brow creasing ever so slightly. He had met Yugi before, and though the boy sitting before him now was calm, there was a stark difference he couldn't ignore. Declan remembered that night at Domino Park—what the media later called the "Playing Card Bomber" incident. A connection to the incident at Domino Mall. It had been chaotic, an adrenaline-fueled scramble to evacuate civilians, find and defuse a bomb, and he'd been prepared to intervene until something unexpected had happened. Yugi had stepped forward with a poise and fearlessness that even the most seasoned officers lacked, taking on the bomber's twisted game with a strange, intense confidence.

The Yugi sitting before him now, however, was different—timid, even vulnerable, as if the recent ordeal had drained some of the light from him. Declan pushed down his curiosity, focusing on his role. Yet, he couldn't help but wonder about the boy's mysterious duality.

"Yugi," Declan began, his tone measured, "I know you've been through a lot recently. Last time we met… you handled yourself incredibly well under pressure. Not many people can stay that calm in a situation like that." He paused, watching Yugi's reaction closely, trying to gauge the boy's state of mind. "But I need you to be completely open with me today. Tell me everything you remember from the incident two days ago at the collapsed building and the duel with this man."

Declan slid a photo forward, and Yugi blinked, his eyes tracing the image. Memories stirred, uncoiling with a strange mixture of fear and dread. The man in the photo, a tall figure with a hollow gaze, brought it all flooding back—the duel, the crumbling walls, the darkness that had surrounded them.

" The man you see speaking isn't the one before you," a low voice droned, cold and almost hollow. The possessed Exodia duelist had staggered toward them, his expression twisted into something that wasn't quite human. "I'm in a place far away." The puppet-like man had tapped his forehead, an unnatural gleam in his eye. "I've implanted a bit of myself in him, so I can control him whenever I want."

The creature's face had split into a wide grin, his hands pressing against either side of the man's head as if taunting them. "And when they no longer serve a purpose…" The head snapped to the side.

Yugi's breath hitched as the images washed over him. He could almost feel the oppressive weight of the building around him, hear the dull roar of crumbling concrete as everything had started to collapse. And then Arcana's broken, haunted face came into view, his solemn words echoing as he held his hat over his heart, smiling with a tragic acceptance.

"I'm going to see Catherine now," Arcana had whispered, a bittersweet calm in his voice that left Yugi reeling.

He had tried to save him, to convince him to run, but Arcana had stayed behind, resigned to his fate. As the ground quaked and debris began to fall, Yugi had stumbled, feeling the whole building tremble around him. And then, just as a massive chunk of the ceiling threatened to crush him, a pair of strong arms had pulled him back—someone had saved him, a grip steady and unyielding.

The memories felt as vivid as if they were happening now. His breathing grew shallow, his grip tightening on the edge of the table as he fought to keep from unravelling completely. His heart hammered, and he felt a creeping sense of helplessness he hadn't experienced in a long time.

And then, in the midst of his spiralling thoughts, he felt a familiar warmth, a steady presence rising within him like a shield. Yami was there, grounding him, his calm merging seamlessly with Yugi's thoughts, creating an anchor in the storm of emotions.

Yugi took a deep breath, the tension in his posture loosening as Yami's strength became his own. His trembling stilled, and when he looked up to meet Declan's gaze, his eyes held a calm certainty—a presence so powerful it almost startled the detective.

Declan's eyes flickered with surprise as he saw the shift in Yugi's expression. The nervous, uncertain boy who had sat down before him seemed to vanish, replaced by a figure exuding an unshakable confidence, his gaze sharp and unwavering. It was as if Yugi had transformed, though he hadn't moved an inch, his demeanour bold and resolute in a way that was impossible to ignore.

A silence hung in the air, thick with something unspoken, as Declan studied Yugi's expression. The transformation was subtle yet undeniable, an invisible line crossed between timidity and self-assured strength.

Yami's voice was calm, yet it carried a gravity that filled the room, its intensity unwavering as he met Declan's gaze. "It was last week when Joey was confronted by a Rare hunter…"

Location: Dueling Command Centre - 08:53

The lights of the Dueling Command Center cast a soft glow across the rows of monitors and high-tech consoles, each screen flickering with data from the ongoing Battle City tournament. Kaiba stood near the main console, arms crossed, his expression as unreadable as ever. Mokuba was at his side, his hands shoved into his pockets as he watched with a mixture of interest and excitement.

In the room with them, Hagane leaned back against the wall, his freshly stitched arm resting gingerly by his side, while Kirin, with her Arctic-white hair and sharp, focused gaze, observed from the other side of the room. Her expression was stern, her attention fixed on every action Festus made, analysing every detail. Holly, standing next to Mokuba, seemed more interested in him than the computer screen, glancing up at him with a sweet, coy smile that contrasted starkly with the intensity of the command centre.

Festus punched a final command into the system, his fingers blurring over the keys as he spoke with his usual casual confidence, "Okay, I got the newest system updated, along with a nice little disruption bug. This thing's going to cross-reference the signals we picked up from the rare-hunters' duel disks. Thanks to the additional disks we confiscated two days ago, I've got even more examples. With a few more tweaks and a little fine-tuning…"

The screen flashed with a satisfying beep, and several red dots—representing unauthorised duel disks—blinked out one by one.

"BAM! Fake duel disks offline," Festus announced with a wide grin, leaning back and making himself a little too comfortable in Kaiba's chair. "And the system's fully operational!"

Kaiba's piercing blue eyes fixed on the screen, his gaze cold and calculating as he took in the disappearing red dots. "Good," he said, his voice like ice. "Now, those who've been using these fakes will head to technician shops, thinking they're just glitches. Once they're there, we'll move in to apprehend the sellers and confiscate any remaining counterfeit disks." He shot a glance at Festus, a barely perceptible flicker of approval in his gaze. "And try not to get too comfortable in my chair."

Festus chuckled, unfazed, and swung his legs off the desk. "No promises, Kaiba, but I'll leave it warm for you."

Kirin, standing at a nearby console, adjusted her arctic-white hair as she studied the information on her own monitor, her fingers tapping away with silent efficiency. She shot Festus an irritated look, unable to hide her disapproval. "This would have been done twice as fast if you weren't so lax, Festus," she muttered, her piercing blue eyes narrowing in mild contempt. "It's a miracle you even pulled it off without falling asleep."

Festus leaned back, folding his arms and smirking at her. "Aw, come on, Kirin. Don't be so uptight—it's done, isn't it? Plus, I thought you'd be impressed by my genius."

"And you're certain this system will hold?" Kaiba's voice was as sharp as ever, slicing through the room with a tone that demanded confidence. "I don't need any hiccups in my tournament, Festus. If there's even a remote chance that the Ghouls can evade this detection, I expect you to resolve it now."

Festus gave an exaggerated sigh, shooting Kaiba a half-grin before nodding. "Relax, Kaiba. I've got it covered. The people using fakes will start flooding technician shops for repairs, and that's when we move in. We'll be able to track down the sellers and seize the counterfeit disks before they can cause any more trouble." He glanced over at Mokuba, who was watching intently from beside his brother. "Not bad, huh?"

Mokuba looked at Festus, nodding with a grin of his own. "Good thinking, Festus. It'll cut off the fake disks at the source," he said, his eyes bright with admiration.

Kaiba crossed his arms, nodding once, satisfied for the moment but his gaze still cold and calculating. "Efficient," he acknowledged, though his voice remained guarded. "But remember—this needs to be flawless. The Ghouls are already an embarrassment to this tournament, and I won't allow them another opportunity to disrupt it. Understood?"

Festus straightened, a slight edge of nervousness creeping into his smirk. "Crystal clear, boss."

Nearby, Hagane stood with his arms crossed, his freshly bandaged forearm visible beneath his rolled-up sleeve. He observed the screen with his usual stoic expression, a slight frown crossing his face as he studied the remaining red blips. His sharp eye for strategy hadn't dulled, and he could already see where Festus's new system might encounter problems in a high-stakes environment.

"You're counting on them going to the repair shops," Hagane noted, his voice calm but with a subtle edge. "But the Ghouls have already shown they're not exactly following the rulebook. There's a chance they won't go the traditional route."

Kirin, standing by the door with her arms folded, nodded, her icy blue eyes fixed on the screens. Her pale hair cascaded over her shoulders, adding to the cold, precise aura she brought to every project. "Hagane's right. If they know we're onto them, they'll change tactics. We need a contingency plan to cover any improvisation on their end."

With the system running and the plan in motion, Kaiba took one last look at the screen, his mind already analysing every possible angle. "Increase security along the alleyways and town squares. Keep communications open and inform the security of anyone suspicious."

"Festus, don't waste time celebrating. Keep the system running continuously, and monitor every alert," Kaiba ordered, his tone leaving no room for argument. "The Ghouls have evaded us long enough. With this setup, if a single signal comes through, I want to be notified immediately. No more excuses."

Festus straightened in the chair, his easy-going grin fading as he nodded. "You got it, Kaiba. I'll stay on it."

Kaiba's gaze shifted to the team, his cold blue eyes hardening with a resolve that echoed through the room. "This tournament is going to make history. No one will stand in KaibaCorp's way—not the Ghouls, and certainly not some rogue Duelists hiding behind counterfeit tech. You have your orders. Get it done."

With Kaiba's commanding words lingering in the air, the team nodded, each focused on their part of the plan. The Command Center buzzed back to life, every member operating with precision and purpose, knowing there was no room for failure. He strode from the room, his presence as commanding as ever, Mokuba close by his side and the rest of the team moving into action.

As the door swung shut behind him, Festus leaned back, casting a glance at Kirin and muttering with a grin, "Guess that's our cue to shine."

Kirin's eyes met his, her expression unreadable. "Just make sure you don't miss any details, Festus," she said coolly. "Kaiba doesn't tolerate mistakes, and neither do I."

She straightened herself, her eyes shifting from the screens to Hagane with a calculating gaze. "Hagane," she began, her tone as sharp as her focus, "since you've been recently relieved from your position as an active vault, you'll need to take up a more active role in securing the tournament grounds. We can't afford any weak spots—not with the Ghouls prowling around."

Hagane gave a small nod, his usual stoic expression in place, though he felt the weight of the task. "Understood. I'll monitor key entry points and ensure the enforcers stay vigilant. If these Ghouls try to slip past the main event, they won't get far."

Holly, meanwhile, had been toying with a loose strand of her vibrant red hair, her eyes flicking between Festus and Hagane with a mixture of amusement and determination. "You know, Kirin and I are still 'on the job' as vaults ourselves," she added with a playful smirk. "The Ghouls are bound to be looking for targets, and with the recent announcement that 'Vault Walker Number 4' is down, there'll be a few more duelists lining up to challenge us for those rare cards."

Kirin nodded, her gaze steely. "We've already seen an interest spike. With Hagane out of the lineup temporarily, the tournament participants know there are only three of us now who carry the vault designation. The Ghouls are opportunistic, and they'll see this as a chance to target the remaining vaults."

She turned to Festus, her expression unreadable but her tone laced with a hint of impatience. "And since Festus will be stationed here monitoring the systems, he won't be able to assist in the field. Meaning Holly and I will need to be doubly prepared for any duelist aiming to challenge us."

Festus gave a casual shrug, leaning back in the chair with a smirk that only added fuel to Kirin's irritation. "Hey, I'd love to be out there having fun, but someone's got to keep an eye on this beautiful system I've put together. Wouldn't want all my hard work going to waste, right?"

Her gaze didn't waver. "This isn't 'fun,' Festus," she said coldly, her eyes narrowing slightly. "And if you think this operation is a chance to sit back and 'watch the show,' I suggest you re-evaluate your role here."

Holly chuckled, casting an amused glance at Festus. "Don't worry, Kirin. Festus knows better than to slack off when Kaiba's eyes are on him." She tilted her head thoughtfully. "Besides, the Ghouls won't take a backseat for long. With Hagane on security detail and Festus here in the command centre, it's going to be up to us to keep an eye on challengers. I, for one, wouldn't mind a few duels to make this more interesting."

Hagane crossed his arms, nodding to both Holly and Kirin. "I'll keep a close watch on the Ghouls' movements, but remember—they're not the only ones looking for rare cards. Duelists across the city have their sights on us. If things get heated, we may end up having to support one another on the field."

"Will do big man!" Holly laughed as she headed for the door.

Kirin watched her until the door closed before looking back at Hagane "Excessive force is allowed when threatened."

"Understood."

Location: Lovely Berry Café - 09:53

Téa clenched her duel disk tightly as she and Mai stepped outside. The café's cosy ambiance faded behind them, replaced by the brisk morning air and a growing tension. Vivian followed, her expression smug and taunting, her confidence unwavering. Mai walked a step behind Téa, arms crossed, her brows knitted together with concern.

"Are you sure about this, Téa?" Mai asked, her tone carrying a note of caution. "Vivian Wong isn't just some street duelist. She's one of the top duelists in Asia. Panik was a joke compared to her." She watched Téa closely, gauging her reaction. "You've got guts, but… challenging her might be biting off more than you can chew."

Téa swallowed, aware of the gravity of what Mai was saying. Her fingers trembled slightly, but she held her chin high. "I know, but she crossed the line," she replied quietly, determination hardening her voice. "Insulting me is one thing, but dragging you into it—she needs to learn some respect." A faint flush crept over her cheeks, her confidence flickering. But as she looked over at Vivian's smug expression, something inside her steadied. IfI can't stand up for my friends here and now, how could I ever expect to face greater challenges down the road?

Téa flashed a determined smile, though a hint of nervousness flickered in her eyes. "I know. But this isn't just about duelling, Mai. She insulted you, Yugi—everyone who's important to me. I can't let her get away with that." She drew in a steadying breath. "And besides, I've learned from watching you, Yugi, and Joey. I'm ready to show her that I'm more than just 'a cheerleader.'"

Mai nodded slowly, crossing her arms. "Alright. But if you're going to face her, you'd better stay sharp. Vivian's aggressive with her strategy, and she's known to overwhelm opponents fast."

As they stopped near an open plaza area, Vivian sauntered forward, her duel disk ready and her confidence unmistakable. A small crowd began to gather, curious about the upcoming duel. Vivian gave Téa a smug look, eyes glinting with anticipation.

"Glad to see you didn't chicken out," Vivian sneered. "But I hope you know what you're getting yourself into. I don't go easy on my opponents, especially not ones who think they can just jump into the spotlight."

Téa held her ground, sliding her duel disk onto her wrist. "I wouldn't expect you to. Let's get this started." She activated her duel disk, feeling a rush of both excitement and nerves. A familiar hum buzzed as her life points appeared on the holographic screen. Vivian smirked, adjusting her stance as her own duel disk whirred to life.

"You're bold, Téa, I'll give you that," Vivian snickered. "But you're about to learn what it means to duel a real pro."

"Let's duel!" They both yelled out!

Vivian gave a sly smirk as she looked at her own hand, a look of satisfaction crossing her face. She held Fire Fortress Atop Liang Peak , Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Wolf , Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Gorilla , Fire Formation - Tenki , and Fire Formation - Tensen.

A perfect start! She thought with glee. With these cards I already have a head start. Her eyes flickered over to her opponent as she drew her cards. You'll regret coming here.

As for Téa her earlier confidence began to waver as she stared at her hand. Her hand consisted of De-Fusion , Mirror Wall , Monster Reborn , Mirror Wall, Horn of the Unicorn , and Darklord Marie. None of them were heavy hitters; there wasn't even a card in her hand capable of setting her up with a strong attack. Her heart sank as she glanced at her cards, a pang of panic settling in her stomach.

Great, she thought dryly. My first time challenging a top duelist, and my hand looks like I'm preparing for a tea party, not a duel.

She couldn't help but think back to her last duels and of course Mai's fun duel quizzes. Thanks to Mai she hadhelped her prepare her deck, ensuring she was set up for a solid first hand. But now, it felt like the deck had turned against her, leaving her with minimal options.

Alright, Téa, she told herself. Just stay calm and use what you've got. Maybe it's not the strongest hand, but there's still a chance here.

Vivian Wong drew a card from her hand, her lips curving into a smile as she held it up. "I activate: Fire Fortress atop Liang Peak!"

A surge of light flashed across the duel field, casting a mystical glow over the arena. Before Téa Gardner's eyes, the ground between them shifted, transforming into an awe-inspiring scene that seemed to materialise straight out of ancient legend. In an instant, the outline of a majestic Chinese monastery appeared, nestled high on a mountain peak surrounded by dense, emerald-green forests.

The fortress was a marvel—its tiered pagoda roofs, glinting in crimson and gold, rose against the backdrop of towering trees. From the main temple, stone terraces led down the mountain, each one lined with carved wooden railings and dotted with red lanterns that seemed to flicker with invisible fires. A narrow, winding path traced its way through the mist, cutting between Téa and Vivian, guarded by fierce-looking stone statues with intricately carved faces..

"What does that card do?" Téa asked as he narrowed her gaze at the changed landscape.

"Don't worry you'll find out in due time." Vivian chuckled before grabbing her next card "I'll activate the continuous spell Fire Formation - Tenki!" Vivian declared, placing the card on her duel disk. The hologram of a fire emblem appeared in front of her, casting a faint, fiery glow. "With Tenki, I can add a Brotherhood of the Fire Fist monster from my deck to my hand."

She swiftly searched her deck, picking out a card and adding it to her hand. Téa clenched her fists, watching the smoothness of Vivian's moves. She felt her confidence flicker again as Vivian continued her turn, her plays unfolding like a well-practised performance.

"Next, I'll summon Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Gorilla in attack mode!" As the card appeared on the field, from the image a gorilla made of flames stormed out and without roar it beat it's chest before from its inferno a armoured samurai figured walked out. "This card has an attack power of 1600 and with Fire Formation - Tenki it gains an additional 100 making it 1700." Vivian said, her tone dripping with pride as the creature's stats rose. "Now, I'll place one card facedown, and that's all for now." She flashed Téa a condescending smile, as if daring her to make a move. "Your turn, rookie."

Téa drew her next card, willing it to be something useful, but when she looked down, her heart sank even further. It was Ancient Elf—not exactly the kind of card that could stand up to the attack power of 1700.

This isn't exactly going my way, she thought, chewing her lip as she looked over her options. I could use the Horn of the Unicorn but what if it gets destroyed and I'll be forced to draw it again. She looked over to the field before back in her hand forming a backup plan as she did.

"I summon Ancient Elf in attack mode!" She placed the card on her disk allowing a female elf to form on the field. Regal armour decorated the monster's body along with a helmet that gave her an otherworldly appearance. The elf raised its staff at the sight of the monster.

"I'll give her the horn of the Unicorn to add to her attack power to allow her points to grow to 2150." A small horn formed on the monster forehead as it glowed showing the magic it bestowed upon its wearer.

If my monster gets destroyed I can revive it next turn and tribute it to summon Darklord Marie and give her the power , Téa's eyes narrowed as she clicks a button on her duel disk to enter the battle phase. With the horn of the Unicorn that's 2400 in total!

"I At-" She paused as she stared at the cards on the field, Wait, a minute Gardner! Don't get impatient, remember what happened with Pain, face-down cards are bad news , she swallowed before clicking again "I skip my battle phase and place two cards face-down and end my turn. Your move."

Good girl , Mai thought as she watched her student, Sometimes the best course of action is inaction. You're battling an unknown so see what your enemy has first.

Vivian's smirk widened as Téa hesitated, the thrill of her opponent's uncertainty feeding her confidence. "Backing down already?" Vivian taunted, her tone dripping with condescension. "I thought you were here to show me what you're made of. Guess I'll just have to give you a little reminder of what a real duelist can do."

She drew her next card with a practised flick, glancing at it before returning her gaze to Téa. Her plan was falling into place, and Téa's tentative playstyle was exactly what she'd hoped for.

"I activate Pot of Greed to draw two cards!" She drew the two cards with the same practised grace as a smirk formed on her face. She grabbed a card before placing it in her duel disk.

"I activate Fire Formation - Domei!" she declared, placing the card onto her duel disk. A fiery emblem flared to life in front of her, pulsing with a vibrant, intense glow that seemed to radiate power. The entire field shimmered, and the image of an intricate ritual altar formed between them. The air thickened, charged with energy, as a mystical chant seemed to echo faintly in the background.

Téa's eyes narrowed, a sinking feeling forming in her stomach as she watched the field shift. She'd never seen this card before, and the anticipation of what was coming next tightened her chest.

"Fire Formation - Domei allows me to Ritual Summon a Beast-Warrior monster from my hand by tributing monsters from my field or hand whose levels equal or exceed the required amount," Vivian explained, her tone confident and sharp.

She glanced at her hand and smirked, selecting two cards. "I tribute Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Wolf along with Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Leopard from my hand to summon my ultimate fighter!" The two warriors turned into their flaming form. The holographic beings roared in unison before dissolving into twin pillars of fire that spiralled upward, fusing together at the peak of the blazing altar.

"Ritual Summon!" Vivian shouted triumphantly. "Come forth, Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Eland!"

From the swirling fire, a figure emerged—a towering, armoured warrior draped in ornate, Asian-inspired battle attire. Gold and crimson accents glinted across the intricate plates of armour, and in his hand, he wielded a large crossbow.. His eyes shone with a fierce, predatory focus as flames licked the edges of his armour. The beast Warrior stood with an imposing 2400 attack points before increasing to 2500 attack points.

Téa narrowed her eyes as she stared at the beast. His attack points are impressive but something tells me that is not what I should focus on .

Vivian crossed her arms, looking down at Téa with a victorious grin. "Impressed? You should be. Eland's presence isn't just for show. And with Domei in my Spell & Trap Zone, if it's sent to the graveyard, I can bring back one 'Fire Fist' monster from my graveyard. Keep that in mind."

Fire Fists… Quite the enigma as they were only recently introduced but never used. Mai chewed her thumb as she racked her mind for any information They were created in tribute to The story of the 108 Heroes of the Water Margin 600th birthday. Which meant they must have been the grand prize for the Asia champion. Her eyes narrowed as she looked on to the duel Those are quite the rare cards you're willing to fork up, Vivian. You must be pretty confident in your deck to do that.

"Next I'll activate Gorilla 's special ability!" Vivian yelled as the duel disk ejected the Fire Formation - Domei card from its slot causing it to disappear from the field. "His ability allows me to send one face-up "Fire Formation" Spell/Trap I control to the graveyard, then I can target one Spell/Trap on the field " She thrusted a finger to Téa's face-down card on her left. "And Destroy it!"

Téa's eyes widened as she watched Vivian's confident move unfold. The hologram of Fire Formation - Domei flickered before vanishing from the field, dissolving into a cascade of embers. With a flourish, Vivian pointed directly at Téa's left face-down card.

"I'm targeting your face-down card on the left, Téa," Vivian declared. The Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Gorilla pounding its chest, sending a wave of fire that lashed out and struck the hologram of Téa's trap card. The Mirror Wall shattered into pixelated fragments before disappearing.

Téa gritted her teeth as the shimmering barrier faded from existence. Her defensive strategy was crumbling, piece by piece. Without the Mirror Wall , she knew Vivian's imposing Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Eland could now attack without its power being halved.

Vivian smirked, the confidence in her eyes growing sharper. "Now since I send Domei to the Grave-yard I can now target 1 "Fire Fist" monster in my graveyard and Special Summon it." She grabbed the card before placing it on the disk to summon it. "I summon Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Leopard!"

A burst of flames erupted on Vivian's side of the field, their glow casting sharp shadows across the duel arena. The fire coalesced and took shape, gradually revealing the form of a lithe, predatory feline—a leopard with fur that seemed to shimmer like embers and eyes that glowed with a fierce, golden light. The creature prowled forward, the flames around it intensifying before fading to reveal its true form: a warrior.

The monster emerged from the dissipating flames, standing tall and confident. His leather armour was an intimidating blend of black and deep crimson, detailed with sharp, flame-like patterns that seemed almost alive. A long ponytail cascaded down his back, swaying slightly as he adjusted his stance. In one hand, he clutched a collection of spell tags, their edges smouldering as though they contained the very essence of fire. His expression was one of quiet intensity, eyes scanning the field with a calculating glint.

"Meet Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Leopard!" Vivian announced with a flourish. "He may not have any attack points and a measly 200 defence points but it's his effect I'm after!" The monster grabbed a spelltag and muttered as small incantation before slamming it down where it stood causing its form to erupt in flames.

"If Leopard is normally or specially summoned to the field, I can tribute One "Fire Fist" monster from the field to Set one "Fire Formation" Spell or Trap Card directly from my Deck." The flames rose up before disappearing as Vivian grabbed her deck and fanned it in front of her. "I tribute Leopard to activate his ability."

Vivian's grin widened as she sifted through her deck, her fingers skimming over each card with precision and familiarity. The anticipation was evident in her eyes as she pulled out a card, a glint of triumph crossing her features. With a confident flick of her wrist, she placed the chosen Fire Formation Spell card into her duel disk's Spell and Trap Zone. The glow from the new set card pulsed momentarily before settling, ready to spring into action at a moment's notice.

"I set one card," Vivian announced, sliding her deck back into place. The duel disk hummed softly as she inserted it, its mechanisms clicking in a practised, mechanical rhythm. She grasped the top of her deck and shuffled it deftly, the cards slipping through her fingers with a crisp, rhythmic sound.

Satisfied, Vivian looked up at Téa, her eyes gleaming with confidence. "I end my turn," she said, folding her arms across her chest. The faintest smirk played at her lips, a silent challenge hanging in the air. The fiery glow from her side of the field cast a warm light over the duel, but for Téa, it felt like the heat of an impending storm.

Location: Black Clown Gameshop - 10:15

A warm light bathed the interior of the Black Clown Game Shop as Duke Devlin sat behind the counter, his emerald eyes wide with astonishment as he examined the cards spread before him. The holographic display of the monitor nearby flickered to life, casting a soft glow across the polished surface. On the screen, a familiar figure appeared, his silver hair cascading like a waterfall over one shoulder, a playful smirk dancing on his lips.

"My dear Devlin!" Maximillion Pegasus's voice purred through the speakers, a laidback and jovial tone that could only belong to the eccentric creator of Duel Monsters. "I trust my little gift has caught your interest?" He folded his hands elegantly beneath his chin, his hair hiding his left eye.

Duke couldn't tear his eyes away from the cards in his hands. "Incredible," he breathed, fingers tracing the glossy surface of each card. The detail, the craftsmanship—everything was meticulous. The thrill of innovation was palpable, and Duke's mind raced with the strategic possibilities they could unleash. "I can't believe you actually made these, Pegasus."

Pegasus's grin widened, the mischievous light in his eye brightening. "Oh, but believe it, darling Duke! Watching that delightful match with Yugi stirred up a whirlwind of inspiration. I thought, 'What better way to celebrate than with a new batch of cards that duelists like you would appreciate?'"

Duke lifted one card between his fingers, its holographic image catching the light. ThunderBall , a mischievous orb crackling with electric energy, seemed almost alive. "This one… it's perfect for tactical plays." His voice grew more animated as he picked up the next card. "And Strike Ninja , it's so versatile! But I have to say, Orgoth the Relentless is a masterpiece." The card depicted a towering, armoured warrior, his expression fierce and unyielding.

Pegasus chuckled, a rich and knowing sound. "Ah, yes, Orgoth. I rather fancy that one myself—something about relentless ambition always seemed so… fitting, don't you think?" He leaned back in his chair, an air of satisfaction exuding from him. "Consider them gifts, my boy. A token of our ever-fruitful partnership."

Duke's eyes widened with surprise. "A gift? Pegasus, I—thank you! These will shake things up around here for sure." He quietly pouted as he stared at the card. Maybe I should have given the tournament a chance .

Pegasus waved a dismissive hand, though the sparkle in his eye suggested he relished the gratitude. "Think nothing of it, Duke. After all, Domino City is practically a second home to Duel Monsters. I must keep things interesting for young innovative duelists." He tilted his head slightly, the teasing smirk softening. "Speaking of, what news from our beloved city? I do hope it hasn't been too quiet."

Duke's grin faded slightly, his expression shifting to something more thoughtful. "Well, things haven't exactly been calm. Kaiba had brought out his own tournament called Battle City-" He was abruptly cut off as he heard a boisterous laughter from Pegasus as he leaned closer to the camera, almost as if trying to pop out of the screen.

"Oh-ho! Seto Kaiba with a grand tournament of his own, you say?" His voice dripped with amusement, and he clapped his hands together, fingers intertwined like a man on the brink of delighted laughter.

"Well, well, isn't he just full of surprises? Always so serious, so intense—like he's trapped in a perpetual duel with destiny itself."

Duke couldn't help but shift in his chair, the sudden, animated burst from Pegasus making him a little uncomfortable. "Uh, yeah, it's called the Battle City Tournament," he continued, watching as Pegasus's silver hair shifted, hiding his left eye even more. "It's really brought out some of the best duelists. Yugi, Joey, and—"

Pegasus cut him off, raising a finger with a flourish. " Battle City , you say? How perfectly Kaiba-esque. He's probably turned the whole city into a battleground, hasn't he?" Pegasus leaned back, a soft, almost singsong chuckle escaping his lips. "Imagine him, standing on the tallest building, coat flapping dramatically, declaring to the world, 'I am the king of this cardboard empire!'"

Duke let out a half-hearted laugh, the vivid image of Kaiba's intense glare and wind-swept coat making him smirk, despite himself. "Yeah, that's... not too far off from reality, actually."

Pegasus's eye gleamed with excitement, and he pressed on eagerly, the grin on his face practically shining through the screen. "And what of our dear Yugi-boy? Has he been roped into Kaiba's grand theatrics yet? Surely the King of Games wouldn't miss the chance to dazzle and defend his title."

Duke nodded, but Pegasus's relentless energy kept him on edge. "Of course. Yugi's competing and, as you'd expect, he's doing really well. The duels have been intense, and—"

Before Duke could finish, Pegasus clasped his hands to his heart and sighed dramatically. "Oh, how splendid! Young Yugi, once again navigating the dangerous waters of competition and triumphing with that pure-hearted charm of his. It's like watching an opera unfold, complete with plot twists, rivalries, and the occasional absurdity! It's enough to make one's heart race, don't you think, Duke-boy?"

Duke forced another chuckle, scratching the back of his neck. "Yeah, I guess you could say that. It's been... eventful, to say the least."

Pegasus leaned forward, his expression softening with genuine curiosity. "But tell me, Duke, are there any unexpected players in this grand tournament? Surprises are the spice of duelling, after all."

Duke's eyes lit up with recognition. "Actually, yeah. A few of the regional champions and this one duelist, Vivian Wong—"

"Ah, Vivian Wong!" Pegasus interrupted with a delighted chuckle. "The fierce wielder of the Fire Fist deck, a tribute to the legendary tales of the Water Margin . Such a unique and storied theme—it's a masterpiece, really. One of my best works." He tapped his chin thoughtfully, eyes twinkling as he recalled details about the young woman. "And if memory serves, she's more than just a skilled duelist. Model, actress, and Kung Fu champion—a multi-talented star with three older brothers destined to inherit their father's vast fortune. Quite the classic tale of family pressure, wouldn't you say?" His voice took on a whimsical lilt as he added, "I have no doubt that her duelling career is her way of rebelling against all that predictable destiny. Oh, the drama! The theatrics! It's like a story unfolding with every move."

Duke mentally sighed, watching Pegasus's expressive antics with a mix of amusement and exhaustion. I forgot just how animated he could be, he thought as he observed the man's dramatic flair.

"Oh, I must see if there are any live duels streaming right now!" Pegasus cooed, clapping his hands together. His eyes sparkled with excitement, and he laughed as he reached for a crystal glass filled with an amber liquid, taking a refined sip. "Imagine the spectacle! Monsters leaping to life, the roars, the tension—such joy!"

Duke started to respond, his tone tinged with a hint of caution. "I suppose, but with the Rare Hunters—or Ghouls—joining the tournament, things are a bit—"

Suddenly, Pegasus choked, sputtering as he did a spit take, the glass slipping slightly in his hand. His face paled, and he coughed, eyes wide in what could only be described as shock. "Excuse me! What did you say?" His voice had lost its usual playful lilt, replaced by an edge of seriousness.

Duke's eyebrows rose as he watched the sudden change in the usually composed Pegasus. He cleared his throat. "Yeah, the Rare Hunters. They're this group of duelists causing trouble, taking rare cards and challenging duelists around the city."

Pegasus's expression darkened, the playful light in his eye extinguished as if someone had doused a flame. The usually exuberant creator of Duel Monsters sat stiffly, his mind racing back to the origins of his beloved game and the secrets that had haunted him since. He cleared his throat, but there was no mistaking the slight tremor in his voice.

"Ah, thank you for this information, dear Devlin," he said, his tone strained but attempting to regain its characteristic cheer. He offered a tight smile that didn't reach his eyes. "Unfortunately, I must take my leave now. Busy as ever, you know how it is! Ta ta!"

Without waiting for Duke's response, Pegasus's image flickered and vanished from the screen, leaving behind only the soft hum of the monitor. Duke sat there, the abrupt end to their conversation ringing in his ears, a strange unease settling in his chest. He couldn't shake the feeling that he had just stirred something far more serious than he had anticipated.

What was that about? Duke thought, staring at the blank screen. The shop, usually filled with a comforting, familiar buzz, now seemed quieter, the silence punctuated by the faint ticking of a clock on the wall.

"Well I suppose I could go and get a nice cup at Lovely Berry then."

Location: Pegasus Manor

Pegasus sat at his desk, his leg shaking uncontrollably beneath it as he scrolled through images on his computer screen. Each one seemed to confirm his worst fears, depicting scenes that should have remained buried in the sands of time. His hand instinctively brushed over the spot where the Millennium Eye had once been embedded. The phantom pain that had begun as a dull ache now throbbed sharply, a cruel reminder of the power he once wielded and the price he had paid.

A thin trail of blood trickled down, staining the edge of his pristine, white sleeve. He ignored it, his gaze locked on the familiar Millennium symbol etched into ancient carvings displayed on his monitor. The symbol taunted him, a ghost from a past he had tried desperately to control.

"It's actually happening," he whispered, the room seeming to shrink around him as the weight of the realisation settled like a shroud. His usually bright and playful voice was hollow, tinged with something close to dread. "Not even your protection could have stopped this, Ishizu. And Shadi... I have heeded your warning, but even you must have known—Destiny is futile."

His gaze fell on the sketchbook lying open beside him, pages filled with meticulous drawings. The rough strokes depicted the Egyptian God monsters in terrifying detail—the fierce eyes of Obelisk the Tormentor , the feathered majesty of The Winged Dragon of Ra , and the serpentine coils of Slifer the Sky Dragon. Each sketch captured the raw, destructive power he had seen in his visions, the same power that had haunted him in his dreams and driven him to the brink of madness.

The images seemed to glare back at him now, as if accusing him of unleashing forces beyond control. Pegasus's fingers traced the outline of Ra's wings, the memory of his nightmares sending shivers down his spine. The sight of those monsters reducing cities to rubble, the roars of chaos that had echoed in his mind, were now at risk of becoming reality.

Pegasus sat back in his chair, his mind whirling with a chaotic blend of dread and questions that refused to align. The glow from his computer screen cast shadows across his face, highlighting the furrowed brow and the tension carved deep into his features. His finger tapped an erratic rhythm against his leg, the only outward sign of the storm brewing within.

"Your precious Pharaoh is supposed to prevent it and achieve his destiny, but at what cost, Ishizu?" he whispered, his voice laced with bitterness. His silver hair shimmered under the dim light, framing eyes that now burned with frustration. Memories flooded him—visions of the past, conversations cloaked in riddles, and warnings that seemed contradictory in hindsight.

He glanced at the news articles on the screen, each headline a glaring reminder of the recent attack at the museum. The display had included relics of ancient Egypt, including a tablet with inscriptions that bore an uncanny resemblance to the ones he had seen in Shadi's underground city. Pegasus's eyes fell on the damaged cartouche in one of the images, the cracked stone looking like a scar across history itself.

Damnatio memoriae —the phrase surfaced in his mind, a whisper of forgotten lessons. The practice of erasing someone from history, condemning their memory to oblivion. The damaged cartouche had that same haunting quality, as if someone had tried to hide a truth too dangerous to acknowledge. His finger stopped tapping, and he drew a shaky breath, eyes narrowing.

"Shadi," he muttered, the name slipping from his lips like a curse. "If you wanted him to fulfil his destiny, why insist that I rid myself of the God Cards? What secrets are you protecting?"

Pegasus's gaze shifted to the sketchbook once more, the fierce eyes of Obelisk, Ra , and Slifer staring back at him as if they, too, held answers he could not reach. He closed his eyes, the phantom echoes of their roars thundering in his ears. Shadi's warnings had seemed so clear then, dire enough to send him back to Egypt in a rush to have the cards buried with the Pharaoh. Yet now, in the light of these new events, those warnings felt like incomplete pieces of a far more sinister puzzle.

None of the stories lined up. Not Ishizu's cryptic reassurances, not Shadi's grave warnings, and not even his own visions. The thought twisted in his mind like a thorn. Was this entire saga merely a battle to protect the Pharaoh, or had it been orchestrated to keep him from uncovering something far greater—something buried beneath layers of myth and forgotten truths?

Pegasus's hand tightened into a fist, the blood on his sleeve drying into a dark stain. "Whatever this is," he said, voice firm despite the tremor in his chest, "it's beyond what any of us prepared for." He thought back to their duel that day he had seen two different sides to the boy.

The oppressive weight of the Shadow Realm bore down on Pegasus, more suffocating than any moment he had experienced before. Tendrils of darkness writhed around him, the eerie movements almost whispering secrets and threats in his ear. He watched with feigned detachment as the spirit knelt beside the fallen form of his other half, the boy, Yugi Mutou. Yet there was a tremor in his chest, a tightness that made him grip the edge of the table a little harder.

Yugi's limp form looked like that of a delicate porcelain doll, cracked and abandoned. Pegasus allowed himself a small smirk, though the muscles in his face felt strained. "Oh dear, it seems little Yugi-boy couldn't handle the strain," he said, his voice lilting with mock sympathy. "Such a pity. I did warn you, didn't I, little shadow ? The Shadow Realm devours the unprepared."

But as Pegasus spoke, he noticed something that made the cold sweat on the back of his neck prickle into an icy sheen. The young man's head lifted slowly, almost mechanically, and the way his eyes locked onto Pegasus sent a shiver skittering down his spine. Gone was the steady, calculated look he was accustomed to seeing. Instead, there was something darker, something ancient and furious simmering beneath the surface.

The crimson glint in Yami's eyes caught the dim light, a sinister glow that seemed to pulse in time with the darkness curling around him like sentient armour. A silence descended, so suffocating that even the shadows seemed to hold their breath.

Pegasus's Millennium Eye throbbed, the golden glow dimming as if shying away from the aura of pure malice emanating from its rival. He shifted, attempting to regain control over the conversation, to shatter the growing tension. "Empty threats won't save you, boy," he spat, though his voice wavered at the edges. "Your moves, your—"

"Silence." The word cut through the air, slicing into Pegasus with an invisible edge so sharp it made his chest ache. The sound of the spirit's voice, lower and drenched in something primal, resonated deep, making the shadows around him writhe like serpents. Pegasus felt a cold dread seep into his core.

There was a shift in his opponent's stance as he rose, a terrifying elegance in the way the darkness moved with him, obedient and hungry. His expression twisted—not with rage, but with something far more unnerving. A cruel smile played at the corners of his mouth, and his eyes burned with an intensity that made Pegasus's heart stutter.

"You amuse yourself by preying on those who dream of light," The shadow said, his tone soft, almost coaxing, as if speaking to a frightened animal. He took a deliberate step forward, the shadows parting to make way for him. "Did you believe there would be no consequence? That torment could be wielded without it biting back?" His smile widened, showing the edge of his teeth, a predator's grin.

Pegasus tried to swallow, but the air felt like molasses. His Millennium Eye pulsed again, this time with pain, as if trying to retreat into his skull. The darkness, once his ally in this twisted realm, now seemed to dance to a new master's will.

"Your tricks, your games," The boy continued, voice still calm but carrying a weight that pressed into Pegasus's chest, squeezing his breath. "They've brought you here, face-to-face with something beyond your imagination." His eyes narrowed, the crimson flicker deepening. "And now, Pegasus, it is my turn to play."

The playful mask that had served Pegasus so well cracked, and panic bled through. He saw not just the spirit of a powerful duelist but an ancient being—a force that had ruled with an iron will and divine wrath.

Pegasus's fingers dug into the edge of the table, the tremor in his hands betraying him. The shadows around him seemed to tighten, as if awaiting their master's command. And for the first time, the puppet master realised the strings were wrapped around his own throat .

"The names and images of Kings and Queens were erased because they were seen as monsters and Tyrants." He touched the area where the eye once was a small drop of blood dripping from the still healing wound. Do any of you even know this ancient being?

Will he be our Savior or Destroyer?

Location: One block from Lovely Berry Café - 10:42

"I wonder if the others have gotten far yet?" Duke Devlin muttered to himself, staring down at his phone as he walked, his other hand carefully holding a cup of Hojicha bubble tea. The drink was cold and refreshing, the rich, roasted flavour blending perfectly with the sweet tapioca pearls. Duke took a sip, savouring it as he scrolled through the official tournament website, eyes darting over updates and match results.

Suddenly, a notification popped up, and his eyes lit up with intrigue. "Oh! There's a duel happening nearby," he said, his tone shifting from casual curiosity to excitement. He stopped walking for a moment, looking closer at the details on his phone. "Vivian Wong versus... PeachSpirit?" He blinked in confusion at the registered name but only one person came to his mind. "Téa," he whispered, an amused smile curling at the edges of his mouth. He remembered the username when he went to look up the duel again.

The grin on his face widened, excitement sparking in his gaze. "This should be interesting." He quickened his pace, weaving through the crowds with the fluid grace of someone used to drawing attention. As he neared the location marked on his phone, the air began to thrum with tension. The usual chatter of the streets was peppered with the gasps and murmurs of onlookers gathered around an open space where the duel was in full swing.

Duke took another long sip of his bubble tea, eyes locked on the duel in progress. The intensity radiating from Téa and Vivian was palpable even from a distance. He could see Téa's determined but strained expression, her duel disk catching the sunlight as she stood, rooted to the spot. Vivian's posture was confident, almost casual, as if she already considered herself the victor.

Duke frowned looking down on the phone and going through the replay. "Oh…that's not to a good star." He muttered as he looked through the log, Still she has a chance to get better .

His gaze flicked between Téa's strained expression and Vivian's smug, triumphant stance. Where are her friends? he wondered, his brow creasing slightly. Why is she alone in a duel this intense?

He knew Yugi and the rest of the gang wouldn't leave Téa to face a duelist like Vivian without support. The duel was brutal, and it was obvious from the sweat beading on Téa's brow that she was on the edge of panic. Duke had caught a glimpse of her match against Panik the other day, and though she'd emerged victorious, this felt different.

Téa took a steadying breath, eyes darting between Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Eland and Gorilla. Each move Vivian made added another layer of tension. She knew that every second counted, and hesitation would only play into Vivian's hands.

Téa's fingers hovered over her deck as she took a deep breath, willing the duel to turn in her favour. With one swift motion, she drew her next card and felt a surge of hope course through her as she looked at it: Graceful Charity. This could be her chance to shift momentum.

"I activate Graceful Charity!" Téa declared. The holographic card shimmered on her duel disk, and she drew three new cards: Honest, Hoshiningen, and Big Eye. A slight smile crept onto her lips—Honest was exactly what she needed.

She quickly assessed her hand, deciding on her next move. "I discard Hoshiningen and Darklord Marie ," she said, watching the cards slip into the graveyard slot. With Honest in her hand, she could create a powerful surprise if Vivian wasn't careful.

"I set one card in defense position," Téa announced, placing the card on her duel disk. The hologram of the monster materialised, a giant eye embedded in a dark, shadowy body that glimmered defensively in front of her. "Now, Ancient Elf , attack Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Eland!"

The elf raised her staff, magical energy crackling around it before she lunged forward, aiming directly at the powerful warrior. "I activate Honest's effect from my hand!" Téa declared, her voice ringing with newfound confidence. "During the battle, I can send Honest from my hand to the graveyard, increasing Ancient Elf's attack points by the amount of your monster's attack points, making it 4650 !" Wings erupted from the monster's back as it strength rose.

Vivian's eyes narrowed, her smirk faltering as the reality of the attack settled in. But she quickly regained her composure, flicking her wrist with a flourish. "Impressive, Téa, but not good enough. I activate Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Eland's ability! When my opponent activates a monster effect, I can send one face-up 'Fire Fist' or 'Fire Formation' card I control to the graveyard to negate that effect."

Téa's eyes widened as Vivian's Fire Fist Gorilla roared and dissipated into embers, its energy channelling into Eland . The warrior's eyes flared as he raised his crossbow, releasing a wave of energy that shattered Honest's effect, nullifying the attack boost on Ancient Elf. The wings burning up into ashes leaving it with just 2150

"Now I activate my face-down card Fire Formation - Tensen!" One of the two face-down cards on Vivian's side flip up.

Téa watched in shock as Vivian's card showed itself. The holographic card of Fire Formation - Tensen flipped up, casting a fiery glow across the field. Vivian's smirk widened as the flames from the spell card infused Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Eland with renewed energy. The warrior's attack points surged, rising from 2500 to a staggering 3500.

"When this card is activated, my Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Eland gains 700 attack points until the end of the turn," Vivian explained, her voice laced with satisfaction. "And thanks to Tensen's continuous effect, all Beast-Warrior-Type monsters I control gain an additional 300 attack points."

Téa's eyes were fixed on the duel field, watching as Eland glowed with an intense crimson light, its crossbow now aimed with deadly precision. She barely had time to react before the enhanced warrior unleashed a powerful strike. The mystical force clashed with Ancient Elf, shattering the elf in a dazzling explosion of light and fire.

The shockwave of the attack rippled through Téa, sending a surge of pain coursing through her as her life points dropped. The numbers on her duel disk ticked down sharply from 4000 to 2650, the display blinking a stark reminder of the powerful blow she'd just taken.

Duke took another sip, eyes narrowing in thought. He wasn't one to get overly involved—he liked keeping a neutral stance when it came to the tournament drama. But seeing Téa, usually so composed and spirited, falter under pressure sparked an unexpected concern. He'd seen her fight with grit before, her determination fierce when the odds were stacked against her.

Vivian's smile was smug, confidence radiating off her in waves. "Did you really think you could outmanoeuvre me so easily, Téa?" she taunted. " I study my targets. I knew you were going to use that card to try and destroy a strong monster. "

Téa's chest tightened, and she struggled to steady her breathing. The duel wasn't just slipping away; it was barreling out of her control.

Téa's chest tightened as the full weight of Vivian's words sank in. Her confidence from earlier felt like a distant memory, replaced by a gnawing sense of dread. The duel field in front of her, filled with Vivian's powerful monsters and glowing spell cards, seemed more formidable than ever. Beads of sweat began to form on her brow, and her fingers trembled slightly as she gripped her duel disk.

She studies her targets? Téa's mind raced, replaying Vivian's calculated plays. Every move Vivian made seemed meticulously planned, as if she had anticipated Téa's strategies before she even made them. The pressure was suffocating. Her pulse quickened, echoing in her ears like a drumbeat. I can't lose here. Not like this.

She glanced at her hand as she swallowed hard, trying to suppress the rising tide of panic that threatened to overwhelm her.

Duke's eyes darkened slightly. She's rattled. The crowd was thick with whispers and gasps, and for a moment, he wondered if any of them realised just how much pressure Téa was facing.

Where's Yugi? Joey? Anyone? Duke thought, frowning. It wasn't like them to be absent during a moment like this. He leaned forward, the crowd's noise washing over him as he studied Téa's face. Her wide eyes darted between Vivian's monsters and her own cards, the icy grip of panic unmistakable. Do they even know? He was going to have to corner her after the duel… if she is still in the tournament by then.

Vivian's gaze was sharp, like a predator toying with its prey. "What's the matter, girl?" she called out mockingly, folding her arms across her chest. "I expected more fight from someone who's supposed to be friends with the King of Games. Are you finally realising you're out of your depth?"

Téa's eyes darted around the field, searching desperately for a plan, a loophole, anything that could give her an edge. But Vivian's mocking laughter echoed in her ears, chipping away at her focus. The sound was almost suffocating.

Think, Téa, think! she told herself, but the icy grip of fear refused to let go.

The crowd that had gathered to watch the duel seemed to blur as her vision tunnelled. She could barely hear Mai's voice, though it rang with urgency from the sidelines. Everything was slipping further from her control.

What can I do? The question echoed in her mind, threatening to drown out any coherent thought. The next turn the card I'm going to draw is Horn of The Unicorn. I got nothing…

The duel disk's timer beeped impatiently, warning Téa that she was running out of time to make her move.

Her heart pounded, a beat of indecision as Vivian's eyes glistened with triumphant expectation.

"Tick-tock, rookie," Vivian whispered, her voice cutting through the chaos.

Duke's fingers tightened around his drink as he watched the struggle unfold, not knowing what move she would make, but silently willing her to find the resolve he knew she had. Come on, Téa. You beat Panik—you can beat her, too.

Téa think! Mai bit her lip. She has a lot of continuous cards on the field and each of them gives her an advantage, her eyes looking over to the field and to the, now open, phone in her hand. They are valuable to her but it blocks any means of other cards to be placed on the field. Use that!

Téa stared at her duel disk, frozen between fear and determination, the weight of the next move pressing down on her like an anvil.

"I end my turn."

Location: Domino City Private Hospital - 11:15

"Hey, guess who's here!" Joey's voice boomed through the crack in the door, playful and overly dramatic. Serenity looked up from her bed, her eyes lighting up in anticipation. A plush teddy bear peeked out from behind the door, its tiny arms wiggling with exaggerated enthusiasm.

"I'm Doctor Bewear," Joey continued in a comically deep voice, moving the bear like it was alive, "and I've heard there's a young missy in here who's been a bit too sassy for her own good!" He added two thick, expressive eyebrows to the bear, making its face look hilariously stern. Serenity's laughter filled the room, a bright sound that made Joey's grin widen.

Joey pushed the door open wider, stepping in with his usual energy. "Now, lucky for me, I'm not alone on this important mission. I've brought along an assistant who's an expert in sass management." He looked over his shoulder with a grin that faded when he realised there was no one behind him. "Ryou! Get in here already!"

"Oh, right, sorry!" came Ryou's voice, followed by the soft shuffle of feet. He stepped into the room with an awkward but proud smile, holding what was supposed to be a stuffed animal. But this was no ordinary toy—it was a monstrosity sewn together with questionable craftsmanship. The plush was covered in purple fur, and its eyes were unsettling, black pupils surrounded by stark white irises that seemed to follow anyone who looked at it. Its gaping mouth was a toothless, abyss-like void, forever open as if ready to consume whatever dared approach. The limbs were long and loosely stitched at the joints, ending in black claws. Its torso exposed the outline of a rib cage and pelvic bone, and a black zipper ran down the chest from a pink heart dangling around its neck.

Joey's jaw dropped, and he released a sound somewhere between a yelp and a squeak. "Ryou, what kind of Frankenstein stuffed animal is that ?!"

Ryou blinked, looking down at his creation with an innocent expression. "I call him CatNap! I made him myself, inspired by the Frightfur monsters from Duel Monsters. I thought Serenity might appreciate something new!"

Serenity's giggles stopped just long enough for her eyes to widen at the sight of CatNap. Then, her surprise melted into more laughter, the kind that made her sides hurt and tears well up in her eyes.

Joey, meanwhile, backed up until he was partially hidden behind the bed, eyes darting between Ryou and CatNap. " Unique ?! That thing looks like it'll sneak up and eat my dreams! Look at those claws! Those aren't paws, those are tiny swords!"

Ryou tilted his head thoughtfully, as if seeing the plush for the first time. "I thought it was cute. See?" He lifted one of CatNap's elongated arms and made it wave. The claws gleamed ominously under the room's fluorescent lights.

Joey shook his head, trying to keep his composure but failing as a nervous laugh bubbled out. "That thing isn't waving; it's threatening! And what's with the mouth? It's like a void waiting to swallow souls! Ryou, what happened to a simple teddy bear? You've brought a plush monster from the underworld!"

Ryou's face fell slightly, but a spark of pride remained. "Well, I wanted to do something different. It took a lot of work to sew him, and I think he has a certain... charm." He looked at Serenity for reassurance.

Serenity wiped tears from her eyes, her laughter softening into a warm smile. "I love it, Ryou. It's… memorable."

Joey's shoulders sagged as he emerged from his hiding spot, relief mixing with exasperation. "Good, because I don't think I can handle a second visit from that thing. Next time, just stick to a regular teddy bear, please. One with zero soul-eating potential."

Ryou chuckled, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. "Maybe I'll make an even scarier one next time. Perhaps something based on Frightfur Chimera?"

Joey groaned dramatically, but Serenity's laughter bubbled up again, filling the room with warmth and joy.

"I wanted to come over and check on you real quick before heading back out to the Battle City tournament," he said, his voice a mix of brotherly concern and excitement. "Can't stay long, but I had to see my favourite girl."

Serenity's eyes lit up as she hugged the bear. "I'm glad you did, Joey. This little visit made my day," she said, looking up at him with pure affection. "And Doctor Bewear's eyebrows are perfect," she added with a laugh, making Joey's smile widen.

Ryou stepped forward, holding his peculiar stuffed creation. "And here's CatNap, in case you need some... unique protection," he said with a chuckle, placing the odd toy on Serenity's bed. The plush's eerie eyes and stitched limbs might have unsettled anyone else, but Serenity's smile only grew.

"I like him," Serenity said, petting CatNap's stitched paw. "He's different, but he's kind of cute." Joey raised an eyebrow, clearly baffled by her reaction. The plush monster looked like it had stepped out of a nightmare, but Serenity's genuine smile made him pause. If she liked it, who was he to judge?

"To think the girls at your school swarm you whenever they get the chance," Joey muttered with a sigh. "I doubt they have any idea that you're into this kind of stuff and all those nerdy role-playing games."

Ryou rolled his eyes, a light flush colouring his cheeks. "If it keeps them away, then I don't mind," he said with a huff, pulling out his small laptop from his bag and setting it up on the table next to Serenity's bed. "They always give me these gifts and box lunches. I don't even know why!"

Serenity giggled at Ryou's frustration. "Maybe they're trying to win you over, Ryou. You're quite popular, you know," she said, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Ryou's fingers paused on the keyboard, and he gave her a look of exaggerated disbelief. "If popularity means constantly dodging over-enthusiastic classmates, I'd rather stay under the radar," he replied. He turned his attention back to the laptop, quickly connecting it to the hospital's Wi-Fi. The tournament interface popped up on the screen, showing the list of ongoing and upcoming matches.

"Here, Serenity," Ryou said, tilting the screen toward her. "I'll set it up so you can watch Joey's duels live. This way, you won't miss anything."

Her face lit up even more as she leaned forward eagerly. "Can I also watch Mai's duels?" she asked, a teasing edge to her voice.

Joey's cheeks turned bright red as he sputtered, "W-what do you want to watch her for? I'm the one dueling out there! Besides, Mai's… she's just…"

"Just what, Joey?" Serenity asked, her tone innocent but her eyes dancing with mischief. "You and Mai make a great team, you know. Maybe even a great couple."

Joey's flustered expression deepened, and he waved his arms around as if trying to fan away the very idea. "Hey! That's not— we're not— she's just a friend!" he stammered, his voice cracking slightly. "Serenity, you're watching my duels, not… not thinking about that!"

Ryou chuckled as he clicked a few more buttons, adding Mai's name to the list of duelists Serenity could follow. "Relax, Joey. I'm pretty sure she can watch more than one duel at a time."

Serenity's smile turned more wistful. "Well, if she's just a friend, then maybe one day I can have a big sister, right?" The playful tone was softened by a hopeful look, and Joey's face went from flustered to utterly speechless. He opened and closed his mouth a few times, trying to come up with something to say.

That comment made Joey freeze for a moment, his mind whirling as he tried to process her words. "A big s-sister?" he echoed, his voice pitching higher. His flustered expression cracked into a nervous laugh before he blurted out, "Alright, that's it! I'm going, I'm going! Love ya, sis!" He backed up toward the door, the red in his cheeks undeniable.

"I love you too, Joey!" Serenity called out, her laughter ringing in the room.

Ryou snickered, giving Serenity a small wave before following Joey out of the room. "You really know how to get him riled up," he whispered, amused.

Serenity leaned back against her pillows, CatNap nestled beside her. "Of course I do. That's what little sisters are for," she said, the warmth of their visit lingering long after they left. She giggled at the monstrosity as she cuddled it. "It's actually cute!"

As Ryou and Joey made their way down the hallway, Joey's embarrassment lingered, still visible in the way he rubbed the back of his neck and muttered to himself. Ryou, on the other hand, was clearly enjoying the moment, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth.

"Joey, I didn't know you turned that red outside of a sunburn," Ryou teased, his voice light and playful. He glanced sideways at Joey, whose face flushed even deeper.

"Oh, come on, Ryou!" Joey groaned, shooting his friend a glare that lacked any real heat. "Do you have to rub it in? Serenity's got enough ideas as it is without you adding fuel to the fire."

Ryou couldn't resist a small chuckle. "Well, it's not every day I see you tongue-tied over someone like Mai. Usually, you're all 'I'm the best duelist' and 'Nobody's gonna stop me!' But mention Mai, and suddenly you're—"

"Okay, okay, I get it!" Joey said, waving his hands as if trying to physically swat away the topic. His expression turned mock-serious. "Focus up, Ryou. We've got duels to watch and competitors to crush. No more 'big sister' talk, got it?"

Ryou lifted his hands in surrender, his grin refusing to fade. "Whatever you say, Mr. Tough Guy. But don't be surprised if Mai shows up and you turn into a stuttering mess again."

Joey rolled his eyes so hard it looked like they might stay that way. "If you weren't such a good friend, I'd leave you here with CatNap."

Ryou pretended to shiver. "Ooh, the horror! Left alone with my own creation. How will I ever survive?" He glanced at Joey with a mock-dramatic expression. "You're the one who ran for cover when I brought him out, remember?"

Joey stopped mid-step and pointed an accusing finger at Ryou. "Don't even start with that. You know that thing is nightmare fuel! Who puts a zipper on a stuffed animal's chest anyway?"

Ryou shrugged nonchalantly. "Adds character. And I figured if CatNap's too terrifying, at least he'll keep anyone unworthy away from Serenity. You know, like a fluffy, stitched guardian."

Joey snorted, the tension in his shoulders easing. "Yeah, well, if CatNap starts moving on its own, you're the one coming back to deal with it."

"Oh, no doubt," Ryou said with a chuckle. "I'd hate for you to lose your 'tough guy' reputation because a plush monster made you jump."

Joey smirked, shoving Ryou's shoulder playfully as they reached the hospital entrance. "Ha-ha, very funny, wise guy. Ugh maybe it will scare Tristan away from her."

"Oho, he does seem fond of her," Ryou snickered, a mischievous glint in his eye.

Joey groaned dramatically, rubbing his temples as if that alone could erase the image of Tristan doting over Serenity. "Don't remind me, Ryou! I swear, that guy turns into a puppy whenever he's around her. Maybe CatNap is exactly what I need to keep him at bay."

Ryou's laughter bubbled up, light and genuine. "If Tristan so much as gets a glimpse of CatNap's claws, he'll be halfway to the next city before you can blink."

Joey's face split into a wide grin. "Now that's a sight I'd pay to see. 'Tristan Taylor, running for his life from a plush monster.' That'd be front-page news!"

Ryou snorted, holding up his hands as if framing an imaginary newspaper headline. " Local Teen Terrified by Stuffed Toy: Friends Question His Street Cred. "

They both burst into laughter, their voices mingling with the noise of the street as they stepped out into the sunlit city.

Joey took a deep breath, shaking off the last bits of anxiety. "Alright, enough joking around. Time to get back into the tournament and show everyone what I'm made of."

Ryou's eyes sparkled with amusement as he pushed the door open. "I'm looking forward to it, Joey. Let's just make sure you keep your head in the game and don't get distracted by certain duelists with blonde hair."

Joey's sputtered response and Ryou's laughter echoed as they stepped into the streets of Domino City, ready to face whatever challenges the tournament had in store.

Location: One block from Lovely Berry Café

Vivian's smirk widened as she glanced at her newly drawn card, Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Coyote . Not bad, but useless for now, she mused, noting that she could only summon it if she had no monsters on the field. She cast a quick glance at her side of the field, taking in her Fire Formation - Tenki , Fire Formation - Tensen , and Fire Fortress Atop Liang Peak , now with three counters. Her powerful Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Eland stood ready, a dominating force that only fueled her confidence.

"Alright, I'll move to the battle phase!" Vivian announced, her voice dripping with satisfaction. "Eland, attack Téa's face-down monster!"

Eland lunged forward, crossbow raised as flames crackled along its form. The fiery bolt struck Téa's face-down card, revealing Big Eye as it was destroyed in a flash of light.

But Téa managed a small smile as her monster flipped face-up. "When Big Eye is destroyed, its ability activates," she declared. "I can look at up to five cards from the top of my deck and place them back in any order I choose."

Vivian's expression tightened as Téa reached toward her deck. Despite the massive advantage she had, the glint of confidence returning to Téa's eyes irked her.

Téa's fingers brushed over the top five cards of her deck, her heart pounding as she took in her options. She drew the first card: Horn of the Unicorn . As expected, it had returned to the top of her deck. With a quiet sigh, she set it aside, then focused on the remaining four cards. Her eyes widened slightly as she looked through them: Lilith, Lady of Lament , Mystic Elf , Counter Gate , and Changing Destiny.

This could work, she thought, a spark of hope igniting within her. Each card had potential, and while none of them were game-ending by themselves, a carefully planned strategy could turn things around. Most of her cards are continuous thus they stay on the field making them valuable so , She looked back to the field before back at the cards in her hand, she may not want to sacrifice them especially if the card only negates attacks and not destroy them.

Vivian cast a quick, dismissive look at Téa, who was carefully arranging her drawn cards. Téa took a deep breath and met Vivian's gaze, the weight of the duel pressing down on her as she clutched her newly ordered deck.

"Alright, continue on," Téa said, her voice steady but a little hesitant.

Vivian scoffed, brushing off Téa's attempt at confidence. With a smug grin, she clicked the side of her duel disk. "I end my turn. Your move, rookie."

Téa drew her card, her hand trembling slightly. She glanced at it and quickly made her move. "I set… one—no, um, two cards face-down," she stammered, fumbling briefly before placing the cards into her duel disk. The soft click of the slots made her flinch as she pressed the button, ending her turn.

On the sidelines, Duke raised an eyebrow, watching her stumble. "Woah… someone's getting nervous," he muttered, chewing thoughtfully on his straw. She's not holding it together, he thought, a hint of concern flickering in his usually aloof gaze. What's going on with her?

Mai, standing a bit closer, narrowed her eyes as she studied Téa's movements, sensing the hesitation in her student's actions. Hun, that's not like you. Are you up to something, or is this just nerves?

Vivian, unfazed, drew her next card: Fire Formation - Tenken . A glint of satisfaction crossed her face as she examined it. "Perfect," she murmured under her breath, a sly smile spreading across her lips. If she's planning on setting up an annoying trap, I'll be ready. The card could only be activated on her next turn, but she wasted no time in setting it onto the field, preparing her strategy for the moves to come.

Vivian's smirk widened as she declared, "I move to the battle phase and attack you directly with Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Eland!"

But Téa was ready, her fingers already hovering over her face-down card. "I activate Counter Gate !" she announced with renewed confidence. "When you declare a direct attack, Counter Gate negates the attack, and I get to draw a card. If it's a monster, I can summon it immediately in Attack Position."

Vivian's expression faltered, but she kept her composure, watching as Téa drew her card. Just as planned, it was Lilith, Lady of Lament. Téa's heart quickened as she summoned the card onto the field, the dark and imposing figure of Lilith materialising with an eerie, shadowed aura. Her original attack points adjusted to 1000 as she took her place on Téa's side of the field.

"And now, I activate Lilith, Lady of Lament's effect!" Téa declared, her voice regaining its strength. "I'll tribute my Lilith and reveal three Normal Trap Cards from my deck. You'll choose one at random for me to set on my field, and the others will be shuffled back." The monster disappeared from the field as Vivian narrowed her eyes while Téa skillfully searched her deck, revealing three Trap Cards that would suit her strategy: Changing Destiny , Doble Passe , and Smile potion. Before taking it back and shuffling it and showing Vivian the back of the cards.

The crowd murmured in anticipation, seeing the sudden confidence in Téa. Duke leaned forward, his eyes narrowing as he took in her sudden comeback. Now we're talking, he thought, his lips curling in approval.

Vivian, forced to make a choice, scowled and pointed at one of the cards. "Fine. Take your chance," she muttered, trying to mask her irritation. She picked a card at the far left, watching as Téa set it on the field, while the remaining two were shuffled back into her deck.

Téa carefully slid the chosen trap card into place, feeling a surge of hope at the start of her strategy. This duel isn't over yet, Vivian, she thought, her determination sparking anew.

Vivian's smirk grew as she clicked a button on her duel disk. "Fine, in that case, I'll activate my continuous spell card: Fire Formation - Gyokkou!"

The holographic field responded instantly as glowing chains appeared, wrapping tightly around one of Téa's face-down cards. The enchanted chains glimmered with a fierce, fiery light, immobilising the card beneath their hold.

Téa's eyes widened as she recognized the targeted card. No... it's my Monster Reborn ! She clenched her fists, frustration rising as she watched the spell render her card useless. With Gyokkou in play, her Monster Reborn was effectively locked down, unable to be activated.

Vivian noticed Téa's reaction and chuckled. "That's right, Téa. Gyokkou prevents you from activating the targeted card. So whatever you were planning with that face-down, you can forget about it."

Mai, watching from the sidelines, narrowed her eyes, noticing Téa's slight hesitation and tension. Come on, Téa. Don't let her shake you. Focus and play your way.

Meanwhile, Duke observed silently, sipping his bubble tea. He muttered under his breath, "This isn't looking good. She's cornered, and it doesn't seem like she's holding it together." His eyes flickered with a glimmer of curiosity mixed with concern. Come on, Téa. Don't freeze up now.

Vivian gave a smug smile, clearly enjoying Téa's discomfort. "Your move," she said, folding her arms with a look of utter confidence.

"I draw!" Téa said as she took the top card. " Next I activate my face-down card! Smile potion!" The card revealed a small potion bottle filled with a shiny liquid with a smiley face stuck to the side. " If my opponent controls a monster whose current Attack is higher than its original attack, I can Draw 2 cards but only if I have no monsters on the field." She drew two cards. "By the way, since I have Darklord Marie in the Graveyard, I gain 200 Life points." As she said this the number on her duel disk went from 2650 to 2850.

"Alright." She looked at the two cards in her hand, I have De-fusion and Monster Reborn on the field and Darklord Marie, Hoshishen, Ancient elf and Honest in the Graveyard , but thanks to Vivian's spell her Monster Reborn couldn't be used.

She looked up at Vivian's monster, especially its attack power of 2900. She looked back down at her three cards which were: Swords of Revealing Light, Mystic elf, Alice lady of Lament.

There is just one thing I don't get , She looked at the Fire Fortress seeing three lit torches, what does the field card do? Most field cards give bonuses like attack power but so far it hasn't done anything.

"I place one monster face-down in defence mode," she declared, her eyes locking onto Vivian's smirk, unfazed by the confidence emanating from her opponent. "And next, I activate Swords of Revealing Light!"

A brilliant array of gleaming swords descended onto the field, casting a soft, radiant glow that encircled Vivian's monsters, trapping them in place. The holographic swords floated in midair, their light shimmering like a protective shield.

Vivian's smirk faltered as she watched her powerful Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Eland and the field of spells held captive within the aura of light. "You really think a little stalling tactic will help you?" she sneered. "Swords of Revealing Light may keep my monsters from attacking for a few turns, but it won't change the inevitable."

Long enough for me to at least get something stronger on the field, She looked down at the last card in her hand, Alice lady of Lament. I could special summon her to add another card on the field but for now I need to be cautious.

"I end my turn, your move Vivian."

Vivian's eyes glinted with renewed anticipation as she drew her next card, her confidence returning in full force. "Alright then," she announced, her tone dripping with satisfaction. "Since you're hiding behind those swords, let's add another member to the battlefield. I summon Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Snake in attack mode!"

The hologram shimmered to life, flames coiling around the figure as it materialised. Instead of the expected serpent, this monster took the form of a fierce warrior clad in ornate, Chinese-inspired armour, each piece engraved with intricate patterns that glowed faintly with fire. His helmet bore the likeness of a serpent, fierce and intimidating, while his armour was dark with crimson accents that pulsed as though they held a heartbeat of their own. In his hands, he wielded a long, gleaming halberd, the blade etched with flames that danced as he twirled it skillfully.

Snake stood poised, his stance low and ready, eyes blazing with a warrior's resolve. He cut an imposing figure, blending strength with an aura of unrelenting focus.

Vivian's smirk returned as she looked at Téa, her gaze predatory. "Meet Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Snake," she said, her voice laced with pride. "And while he might not be able to attack you just yet, he's going to be here, waiting for the moment those swords disappear."

Téa's eyes flicked to the newly summoned warrior, taking in his 1800 attack points before seeing it increase to 2400 thanks to her face-up cards. With Swords of Revealing Light still active, she had a bit of breathing room, but the pressure was mounting.

"I end my turn," Vivian said, crossing her arms with an air of smugness. "Your move, Téa. Better make it count."

Téa swallowed, her fingers tightening around her duel disk. She needed a strategy, and she needed it fast. I still have two turns before the swords disappear, she reminded herself, glancing at her remaining cards. It's enough time to turn this around… I just need the right strategy.

Domino Police Station – Outside – 12:00 PM

The bright midday sun cast a cool glow over the steps of the Domino Police Station as Yugi and Tristan emerged from the building. Tristan stretched his arms overhead with an exaggerated sigh, shaking out his shoulders. "Man, that took forever. I thought my dad was gonna go easy on you!"

Yugi managed a faint smile, though there was a shadow of worry behind it. "I don't think he was too hard on me, but… I could tell he wasn't exactly satisfied with what I told him." He glanced down, brow creasing slightly. "It was almost like he knew I was holding something back."

Tristan nodded, casting a knowing look over his shoulder toward the station doors. "He can be pretty relentless, especially when KaibaCorp is involved."

Yugi looked up, surprised. "He doesn't like KaibaCorp?"

Tristan's mouth twitched, a flash of hesitation passing over his face. "It's… complicated." He shrugged, trying to brush it off, though Yugi noticed the careful way he chose his words. "It's not really about Kaiba himself. It's more the company… Dad's always had a problem with it. Even before Kaiba took over."

Yugi opened his mouth to ask more, but before he could, Tristan clapped him on the shoulder and let out a forced laugh. "Anyway," he said, shifting the tone to something more casual, "I'm next in line to get grilled. Dad'll probably have a few questions for me about the same stuff. Think you can hang out here while I wrap things up?"

Yugi nodded, still curious but sensing it wasn't the right moment to pry. "Sure, I'll wait."

Tristan dug into his pocket and handed Yugi his phone, the screen already open to the Battle City Tournament website where live updates streamed in real-time. "Here," Tristan said with a quick wink. "Catch a duel or two while I'm inside. It should keep you busy."

Yugi took the phone, glancing down at the display as the names of current duelists appeared on the screen. "Thanks, Tristan. I'll be here when you're done."

Tristan grinned and patted Yugi's shoulder again before heading back inside. "I'll be quick. Maybe we'll even get lucky and catch Joey or Mai in action—bet he's tearing through the ranks by now."

As Tristan disappeared into the station, Yugi turned back to the screen, feeling a familiar presence stirring within him.

"Did you feel it, Yugi?" Yami's voice sounded in his mind, thoughtful but wary. " Tristan's holding something back."

Yugi sighed, nodding subtly. " Yeah… It felt like he wanted to tell us something. But he decided not to."

"Perhaps it's something we'll need to find out for ourselves", Yami replied, his tone thoughtful. Then, with a small grin, he took control, his spirit replacing Yugi's on the steps. "Well, while we wait, we might as well see if there's anything interesting going on in the tournament." Yami's fingers danced over the screen, expertly navigating the Battle City updates.

Yugi's spirit form gave him an exasperated look, folding his arms. Hey! Tristan left the phone for me to use, you know!

Yami raised an eyebrow, grinning mischievously. "He told us to keep busy. I'm just being helpful."

Yugi crossed his arms with a sigh. Sure, you are. Sounds more like a jab to me…

"Would it be so terrible if you upgraded to a phone that could handle more than one game, Yugi?" Yami teased, his fingers scrolling deftly through the list of duels in progress.

Yugi huffed. I don't like this touch screen nonsense—it's all fingerprints and no buttons!

Yami chuckled, shaking his head before pausing as he came across an unexpected matchup. "Hold on… 'Vivian Wong versus… PeachSpirit?'" His eyebrows shot up as he clicked into the duel log.

" PeachSpirit? " Yugi echoed, puzzled. " Do we know that duelist? "

Yami grinned, leaning back against the stone steps with his signature confidence. "I think so. Pretty sure that's the same duelist who took down Panik a few rounds back."

Yugi tilted his head. " And what makes you so certain? "

"There's an Honest in their graveyard," Yami replied, tapping the screen. "They're the only ones who've got a card like that. If I remember your words correctly You said that it is one of the rarest cards in the world—if not the rarest. There are only two, and one is rumoured to be in Europe and the other… right here " He tapped at the screen with a smirk.

" How's the duel going? "

Yami's fingers danced over the phone screen, his expression sharpening as he analysed the duel log. "Honestly… it's difficult to say," he murmured, a trace of concern in his voice. "Looks like they started off with a pretty rough hand."

Yugi leaned in, glancing over Yami's shoulder. " Not the best setup, that's for sure. This duel isn't going to be easy—Vivian Wong's not just any opponent. "

Yami raised an eyebrow, curious. "Vivian Wong… sounds like you know a bit about her, Yugi."

Yugi nodded, his expression thoughtful. "S he's actually pretty famous in the duelling circuit, even though she's not from around here. She's called the 'Asia Queen' for a reason. Vivian was a successful model and actress before she got into duelling, and she's also a Kung Fu champion. "

Yami gave an appreciative nod. "A model, an actress, a martial artist, and a top-tier duelist? Quite an impressive resume."

" Yeah, " Yugi replied, casting a wary glance at the screen. " She's known for her calculated plays and her ability to control the field, and she's undefeated in her region's tournaments. Japan's not part of that circuit, so she's pretty new here in the Battle City tournament… but judging by the log, she's already got a serious advantage. "

Yami continued scrolling, analysing Vivian's moves. "From what I can see, she's set up a formidable field with Brotherhood of the Fire Fist - Eland as her main monster and support spells like Fire Formation - Tenki , Tensen , and Gyokkou . She even managed to lock down her opponent's Monster Reborn with Gyokkou's effect. That's a pretty tough setup to break."

Yugi's eyes widened slightly. " And Eland? That monster's not just strong—it can negate effects by sending other Fire Fist or Fire Formation cards to the graveyard. Vivian's using it to keep her opponent on the defensive. "

Yami nodded, his gaze steady on the screen. "That's the reason why Honest is in the graveyard. It's clear she's calculated every move carefully. Viviam has them on the ropes, relying on Swords of Revealing Light to stall for time."

Yugi scratched the back of his head thoughtfully. " This duel's definitely got a different feel to it. Vivian's controlling every aspect, cornering her opponent into making risky plays. Whoever this PeachSpirit is, they're in for a serious challenge. "

Yami leaned back, his expression contemplative. "They are going to need something more than just defence if they want to pull off a comeback against someone like Vivian."

Yugi nodded as he looked at the play, " I have a feeling this isn't over yet. PeachSpirit may be on the defensive, but if they can find a way through Vivian's setup, this duel could still take a surprising turn ."

Yami's eyes shine with excitement. "I'd love to see a comeback. They have been learning from their mistakes" He moved through the history log "It's nice to see someone improving." He muttered as he stared at the information as a small smile formed on his face. He felt similar as he watched Joey improve in his skill and even Yugi in his confidence.

As they continued to watch, their excitement and worry silently lingered as the mysterious duelist facing down Vivian Wong. They might not know who was fighting as PeachSpirit , but in their hearts, they couldn't help but root for them.

Unknown - 12:15

In the back of a dimly lit card shop, three Rare Hunters were hunched over a cluttered workbench, muttering and cursing under their breath as they tried to repair several malfunctioning duel disks. The hum of electronics filled the room, adding to the tension as they worked quickly, the faint flickering of an overhead bulb casting eerie shadows across their faces.

"Damn it," one of them muttered, yanking open a panel on a duel disk with frustrated fingers. "These things were supposed to work perfectly."

Another grunted, flipping through a manual with impatience. "Malik promised these would last long enough for the tournament. If he finds out we're having trouble now, we're as good as dead."

The third Hunter gritted his teeth, tossing aside a broken circuit board. "Then let's just focus and get it done. Once we get these fixed, we can report back to Malik and keep our necks off the line."

Just then, a bell rang from the front of the shop, signalling a new arrival. Too absorbed in their work, one of the Rare Hunters barely looked up. "Sorry, we're a bit busy here," he called out, sounding impatient. "If it's about your duel disk, place it on the table, and we'll get to it."

Silence followed, and then a low, menacing voice broke through the room, smooth and powerful. "Good," the voice said, deep and calm. "I'm glad you could help."

The Rare Hunters froze, turning slowly toward the doorway. Standing in the shadows was Hagane, his tall, imposing frame filling the entrance. His face was expressionless, but his eyes were cold as steel, fixed on each of them with unblinking intensity. He took a step forward, the crack of his knuckles echoing ominously in the quiet room.

One of the Hunters sneered, though his voice wavered. "Who do you think you are, barging in here like this? You don't know who you're dealing with. Malik won't—"

Hagane's glare cut him off, his voice as cold as ice. "I'm here on behalf of KaibaCorp, and you're going to tell me everything you know about these fake duel disks—and your connection to your leader."

The three Rare Hunters exchanged nervous glances, and one scoffed, attempting to mask his fear with forced bravado. "You think we're scared of you? Our master has ways of dealing with people like you. You have no idea what you're up against."

Hagane advanced another step, his gaze unyielding. "You'd be smart to cooperate while you still can."

The Rare Hunters held their ground, exchanging wary looks, but then, an odd, unsettling expression crossed their faces. Their eyes grew distant, and a twisted smile crept onto their lips. The three began to laugh—softly at first, then louder, the hollow, chilling sound filling the room.

Hagane tensed, instinctively stepping back as he watched the Hunters' laughter grow into something deranged, their laughter filling the space with an eerie resonance.

Then, as suddenly as it had begun, the laughter stopped. The Hunters' eyes rolled back, and they collapsed where they stood, their bodies falling lifelessly to the floor, surrounded by the scattered tools and broken duel disks. Their twisted smiles lingered, frozen on their faces, a final, disturbing mark of Malik's influence.

Hagane knelt, checking for a pulse, but the truth was clear—they were gone, he didn't know but their lives were snuffed in an instant. The faint, unsettling residue of their master's influence still clung to the air, a dark reminder of the lengths Marik would go to in order to protect his secrets.

Straightening, Hagane pulled out his radio, his voice calm but laced with grim understanding. "This is Hagane. I need medics and police at the hidden card shop off North C. We have three deceased, likely connected to the rare-hunters operating within the tournament."

Ending the call, he cast a final glance over the lifeless bodies sprawled across the room. Somehow their master had silenced them without hesitation, a warning to anyone daring to cross his path. Hagane's expression hardened. He knew they were up against something far darker and far more dangerous.

Notes:

"Fire Fist" monsters are named after the 108 heroes of Water Margin, the "108 Stars of Destiny", mixed with names of animals; the "Eagle", "Horse Prince", "Lion Emperor", and "Spirit" are characters from the novel, while the "Fire Formation" Spell/Trap Cards are named after celestials. Roughly a third of the heroes, the "Heavenly Spirits", have been released as of now.
Water Margin, also called Outlaws of the Marsh or All Men Are Brothers, is a Chinese novel from the Ming dynasty that is one of the preeminent Classic Chinese Novels.
Yes CatNap is a reference to Playtime... It just came to my head and Ryou looks like a guy that is good with his hands. I had to give him more fun little quirks, so the sweetie knows how to make plushies.

The return of the phone problem was needed for a bit a fun and well for them to 'see' and to 'cheer' on Téa even if they don't know it's her. Also I'm getting more confident with some of the Oc's which makes me happy.