Turn 5 – Yuya
Ryuki's voice carried across the ruined cityscape, his tone sharp but not unkind. "Is that all you've got, Yuya? Is this the limit of your dueling?"
Yuya was still on one knee, the debris-strewn streets beneath him shaking faintly from the lingering energy of Ryuki's previous turn. His breathing was ragged, sweat tracing paths down his dirt-smudged face. He heard the words, but his mind felt clouded by the oppressive force of Ryuki's dragons, the chaos of the battlefield, and his own doubts clawing at the edges of his resolve.
"What...?" Yuya's voice trembled as he raised his head, his heterochromatic eyes widening slightly.
Ryuki crossed his arms, his gaze unwavering and intense. "You haven't shown me your best. And I'm not being hypocritical here—what you've seen so far is only half my power. If you want me to show you everything, then stop holding back! Hit me with all you've got!" His voice rose like a roar, sharp as a blade but filled with a strange, almost brotherly encouragement. "Show me that you can evolve through adversity, Yuya! Show me you're not the kind of duelist who crumbles when the world turns against him!"
Those words struck Yuya harder than any attack Ryuki's dragons had unleashed. They resonated deep within his chest, where the reason he first started dueling still burned faintly beneath the fear and exhaustion.
On the sidelines, the tension shifted. Reiji calmly adjusted his glasses, the faintest glint of approval flashing across his sharp eyes. Fubuki let out a chuckle, folding his arms.
"I see now," Reiji murmured, his voice quiet but firm, audible to those around him. "I understand what Ryuki is doing."
"You know what he's planning?" Yuto asked, watching Ryuki with a mixture of caution and intrigue.
Reiji gave a faint smile, his tone measured and analytical. "Ryuki wants to see if Yuya can still be himself despite everything. He wants to know if the boy standing there is still the same duelist who believed in entertainment, or if the war and pain have stripped that away."
"Exactly," Fubuki added with a grin, though his eyes were more serious than usual. "Like they say—war changes people. Ryuki's testing Yuya, pushing him to see if his heart's still in the same place as when he first picked up those cards. Does he still believe in his way of dueling? Or has he lost himself?"
Their conversation was almost drowned out by the eerie stillness of the battlefield. Around the duelists, the once-bustling city was in ruins, skyscrapers cracked and shattered from the onslaught of Ryuki's dragons. Craters scarred the streets. Some residents had already fled, distant silhouettes retreating with frightened glances over their shoulders. The air shimmered with heat and smoke, mingling with the faint glint of embers drifting lazily down like fireflies.
Yuya slowly pushed himself to his feet, his legs trembling from both fatigue and determination. He tightened his grip on his duel disk and looked across at Ryuki's field, where an army of dragons waited with silent, suffocating power.
"You're right..." Yuya admitted through clenched teeth, his voice raw but growing stronger with each word. "I haven't... given my all yet. That's why..." He raised his arm with a determined shout that cut through the smoky air like a rallying cry. "I'll show you everything I've got! My turn! Draw!"
The card slid into his hand, and in that instant, his eyes regained their familiar spark. The spark of a performer about to step back onto his stage.
"First, I activate the Spell Card—Monster Reborn!" Yuya's voice rang with newfound energy. "Return to the stage, Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon!"
The field erupted with a gust of wind as a summoning circle appeared. With a roar that made the ground quiver, Vortex Dragon re-emerged, its scales gleaming brilliantly amidst the ruined battlefield.
Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon
Level 7 / WIND / Dragon / Fusion / Effect
ATK: 2500 / DEF: 3000
"Welcome back, partner!" Yuya called with a grin as the dragon let out a thunderous cry, shaking the debris from the streets.
He raised another card with a flourish, the gesture instinctive, like the entertainer he had always been. "Next, I set the Scale 4 Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon in my Pendulum Zone!"
A dark-blue and gray dragon appeared on the field within the shimmering arc of the Pendulum Scale. Unlike his usual Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, Phantom Dragon bore sleek, angular armor with a ghostly glow radiating from its claws. Its wings rippled with ethereal shadows, as if the spirit of the dragon itself were partially phased between realms.
Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon
Level 7 / DARK / Dragon / Pendulum / Effect
ATK: 2500 / DEF: 2000 | PS: 4
"With this Scale, I can summon monsters from Level 5 to Level 7 all at once!" Yuya shouted, spinning dramatically as the glowing arcs flared to life. "Swing far, pendulum of the soul! Carve open the path to victory! Pendulum Summon! Return to the spotlight—Magician of Astromancy and Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"
The familiar pillars of light shot upward, splitting the clouds overhead. Two figures descended dramatically: Magician of Astromancy, her starlit robe billowing in the heated winds, and Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, roaring with feral vigor.
Magician of Astromancy
Level 5 / DARK / Spellcaster / Pendulum / Effect
ATK: 1200 / DEF: 2400 | PS: 1
Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon
Level 7 / DARK / Dragon / Pendulum / Effect
ATK: 2500 / DEF: 2000 | PS: 4
Yuya thrust his hand out, his voice carrying clear and strong. "Now, I activate Synthesis Magician's Pendulum Effect! Once per turn, I can target two monsters I control, and they'll share the same Level! I choose Magician of Astromancy and Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! Their Levels now align!"
Magician of Astromancy raised her staff, releasing a shimmering arrow of arcane light. It struck both herself and Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, and an ethereal dome enveloped them. A starlit glow cascaded down, harmonizing their power as Astromancy's level shifted.
Magician of Astromancy
Level 5 → 7
"Perfect!" Yuya's grin widened, his voice brimming with confidence. "Now I overlay my Level 7 Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon and Level 7 Magician of Astromancy! I build the Overlay Network!"
The two monsters dissolved into beams of light, one violet, one green. They spiraled upward before plunging into a swirling black vortex forming above the field, the energy resonating like the deep rumble of distant thunder.
Yuya raised his hand dramatically toward the storming sky, his voice ringing with fierce conviction. "Dragon with dual-colored eyes, reborn from frozen arctic depths—freeze my enemies with absolute zero! Xyz Summon! Descend now, Rank 7! The dragon of Tundra's might—Odd-Eyes Absolute Dragon!"
The vortex exploded outward, releasing an icy shockwave. A dragon of crystalline frost and glacial wings emerged, its roar a chilling counterpoint to the suffocating heat around them. Despite the blistering flames and smoldering ruins, its frozen aura didn't waver—the ice on its wings gleamed with a brilliant, unmelting light, defying the chaos of the battlefield.
Odd-Eyes Absolute Dragon
Rank 7 / WATER / Dragon / Xyz / Effect
ATK: 2800 / DEF: 2500 | OU: 2
Spectators shielded their faces from the gust of freezing wind that followed its arrival. Even Ryuki's dragons stirred at the sudden shift in the atmosphere.
Yuya pointed forward, his voice carrying determination and fire. "This duel isn't over yet, Ryuki! I'll prove to you—and to everyone watching—that my belief in dueling hasn't changed! This is where the real show begins!"
"This is the first time I've ever seen that Xyz Monster," Sawatari muttered, his eyes wide. Memories of his duel against Yuya during the first round of the Maiami Championship flashed briefly—back then, Yuya had never unveiled this card. "Guess he's been holding back a lot."
Across the field, Yuya's confident grin never faltered. "Next, I activate the Spell Card—Magician's Entrance! Since my Life Points are lower than yours, I can Special Summon one Pendulum Spellcaster monster from my Pendulum Zone directly to the field! Come on out—Synthesis Magician!"
A swirl of shimmering magic erupted from Yuya's Pendulum Zone. From the portal descended a graceful magician cloaked in violet and white robes, landing elegantly beside Odd-Eyes Absolute Dragon. Her staff glimmered faintly, hinting that her true power was yet to be revealed.
Synthesis Magician
Level 4 / LIGHT / Spellcaster / Pendulum / Effect
ATK: 500 / DEF: 1500 | PS: 8
Serena narrowed her eyes at the magician. "But why would Yuya summon such a weak monster? She barely has any attack power."
Kazuma shrugged with a small smirk. "With Yuya, appearances are deceiving. If he brought her out, he's got a plan."
Yuya pointed dramatically toward his dragon. "You'll see soon enough! I activate the Spell—Odd-Eyes Release! I target an Odd-Eyes monster on my field, then draw one card for every two Levels it has! I release my Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! Since it's Level 7, that means I get to draw three cards!"
Odd-Eyes let out a mighty roar before dissolving into pure energy, soaring into Yuya's Duel Disk. Yuya swiftly drew three cards, his hand rapidly expanding. The spectators could feel the tension tightening with each move.
"And now," Yuya continued, his voice brimming with energy, "I reset my Pendulum Scale! I place Odd-Eyes Arc Pendulum Dragon in my Scale, with Scale 8!"
A flash of light illuminated the field as a brand-new variant of Odd-Eyes appeared. This dragon's form was regal and ominous, its body dark blue, adorned with crystalline light-blue spikes. Three majestic horns curved from its back, echoing the shape of the pendant swinging from Yuya's neck.
Odd-Eyes Arc Pendulum Dragon
Level 8 / DARK / Dragon / Pendulum / Normal
ATK: 2700 / DEF: 2000 | PS: 8
Yuto crossed his arms, speaking evenly but with a trace of pride in his voice. "He's got two Odd-Eyes in his Pendulum Zone now. That opens up a lot of possibilities."
Yuya's grin widened. "And I'm not done yet! I Normal Summon the Tuner monster—Entermate Odd-Eyes Synchron!"
From Yuya's field, a small mechanical figure appeared. Its tiny gears whirred as it tipped its little top hat, green and red eyes gleaming mischievously.
Entermate Odd-Eyes Synchron
Level 2 / DARK / Spellcaster / Pendulum / Effect
ATK: 200 / DEF: 600 | PS: 6
"A Tuner?!" Yugo nearly leapt out of his seat, excitement flashing across his face. "He's really going all out!"
Yuya's voice echoed across the arena. "But first, I draw even more fuel for my strategy! I activate the Spell—Card of Demise! I draw until I have five cards in hand. At the end of my fifth turn, my entire hand will be discarded, but for now... I'm loading up!"
He drew four cards in quick succession, his hand now brimming with possibilities. "And I'm still not finished! I activate the Spell—Double Summon! This lets me Normal Summon one additional time this turn! So I summon—Entermate Guitartle!"
A cheerful melody accompanied the arrival of Yuya's next monster. A small blue sea turtle appeared, its shell shaped like an acoustic guitar. Strings ran across its belly, resonating with each step as it gave a playful strum.
Entermate Guitartle
Level 1 / WATER / Aqua / Pendulum / Effect
ATK: 300 / DEF: 400 | PS: 6
Kazuma's eyes gleamed with anticipation. "He's setting up for something big."
Yuya's arm cut through the air. "You're absolutely right! Time for the next step! I tune my Level 2 Odd-Eyes Synchron, Level 1 Guitartle, and Level 4 Synthesis Magician!"
The three monsters leapt upward. Odd-Eyes Synchron split into two emerald Synchro rings, encircling Guitartle and Synthesis Magician as they transformed into shimmering stars.
Yuya raised his voice, his chant echoing like a stage performer delivering his climax:
"Dragon with dual-colored eyes, smash through the atmosphere and descend with your blazing might! Synchro Summon! Come forth—Level 7! Dual-colored dragon of celestial inferno—Odd-Eyes Meteorburst Dragon!"
A roar of fire erupted as a magnificent red dragon appeared, its body engulfed in blazing scarlet flames. The inferno around it swirled as if heralding the arrival of a shooting star destined to burn its path through the duel.
Odd-Eyes Meteorburst Dragon
Level 7 / FIRE / Dragon / Synchro / Effect
ATK: 2500 / DEF: 2000
Gasps rippled through the crowd. Even the most experienced duelists watching couldn't hide their awe. Yuya had already used Fusion, Xyz, and Pendulum mechanics this duel, and now Synchro too. His versatility and daring spirit left the spectators speechless.
On the sideline, Reiji observed silently, arms crossed. For a moment, his usual stoic expression softened into a faint smile. "Fusion, Synchro, Xyz, and Pendulum... Yuya has come far. His progress over these months has exceeded even my expectations."
He closed his eyes briefly, recalling his promise to Yusho long ago—to watch over Yuya and guide him when necessary. "Yusho... your son is walking his own path now. And he's shining brighter than ever."
The stage was set. Yuya's field was overflowing with possibilities, and the duel's intensity had risen to its peak. Whatever he planned next, it promised to push the limits of entertainment and strategy alike.
"Now, I activate Odd-Eyes Release from my Graveyard!" Yuya's voice rang out with fiery determination. "By banishing this card along with Odd-Eyes Vortex Dragon from my Graveyard, I draw two cards!"
The holographic image of the banished dragons dissolved into glowing motes of light, vanishing as Yuya drew two fresh cards with a swift motion. His eyes gleamed with hope as his hand replenished.
"Next, I activate the Spell Card Pendulum Gift! By returning one Pendulum Monster from my Extra Deck to the Main Deck, I gain Life Points equal to 200 times its Pendulum Scale! I choose Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! Since its scale is four, I recover 800 Life Points!"
The glowing image of Odd-Eyes slid from his Extra Deck, shined brilliantly, and returned to his deck. A warm wave of energy pulsed across the field as Yuya's Life Points ticked upward.
Yuya's: 1400 → 2200
"Smart move," Gongenzaka noted, nodding in approval. "Not only is he regaining resources, but he's also giving himself a buffer. He's planning something big."
Yuya's next card swipe caught everyone off guard. "Then, I activate Mystical Space Typhoon! I'll destroy one Spell or Trap on the field... and I target my Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon!"
A sudden gust of spectral wind burst forth, shredding Yuya's own monster into shards of light. Gasps rippled across the spectators.
"Why... why would Yuya destroy his own monster?!" Ashley blurted out, eyes wide with confusion.
Yuya smirked. "Because this is part of my strategy! Odd-Eyes Arc Pendulum Dragon's Pendulum effect activates! When an Odd-Eyes monster on my field is destroyed, I can Special Summon an Odd-Eyes monster from my hand, Deck, or Graveyard! Come forth again—Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"
With a triumphant roar, Odd-Eyes descended in a blaze of red and green energy, landing beside Meteorburst Dragon. Its dual-colored eyes gleamed defiantly, reflecting Yuya's unyielding spirit.
Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon
Level 7 / DARK / Dragon / Pendulum / Effect
ATK: 2500 / DEF: 2000 | PS: 4
"He's relentless," Yuzu whispered, a mix of awe and worry flickering in her chest. She could feel the tension spiking. Yuya wasn't backing down, but deep in her heart, she sensed Ryuki had anticipated this very moment.
Yuya raised his next card high. "And now, I'll show you something you didn't expect! I activate the Ritual Spell—Odd-Eyes Advent! With this, I can Ritual Summon an Odd-Eyes monster by tributing monsters from my hand or field!"
"He can Ritual Summon too?!" Dennis exclaimed, his jaw nearly dropping. "Yuya's arsenal never ends!"
"I tribute my Level 7 Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!" Yuya declared. "Dragon born from the deepest parts of the earth, heed this sacred ritual! Break free from the chains that bind you, and rise to my call! Ritual Summon! Appear—Level 7! The heterochromatic dragon that commands the very earth itself... Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon!"
A summoning circle of ancient runes erupted beneath Yuya, glowing earthen-brown and emerald green. From its depths rose a mighty dragon, its body clad in rocky armor, chains clinking ominously as they dangled from its limbs. The creature let out a guttural roar that made the ground tremble.
Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon
Level 7 / EARTH / Dragon / Ritual / Effect
ATK: 2800 / DEF: 2500
"This is amazing..." Ruri whispered. "Yuya's pulling out every trump card he's got."
"Yuya's going all out this turn," Yuzu said softly. But even as she spoke, her heart tightened. No... Ryuki's not done yet. He's been waiting for this.
Her fears proved true.
Ryuki's calm, calculating voice cut through the tension. "And before you make your move, I'll stop you right here. Continuous Trap—Dragonic Chains!"
The ground beneath Yuya's dragons cracked as glowing, spectral chains shot upward. They lashed around Odd-Eyes, Meteorburst, and Gravity Dragon, binding them tightly in shimmering restraints. The energy in the air shifted, suffocating.
"With this card, I target one monster you control—and it cannot activate its effects," Ryuki explained coldly. "But since I control a Fusion Monster, all your Dragons are affected instead. And if you want to activate any card effects... you'll have to pay 500 Life Points."
The chains pulsed with energy, suppressing Yuya's dragons completely. Their roars turned into frustrated growls, eyes dimming slightly as their abilities were sealed.
"Despite summoning three dragons, all of them halted by a single trap card," Barrett remarked, arms crossed. His voice carried a hint of grudging respect. "Classic Ryuki—always one step ahead."
"What now, Yuya?" Yuri asked with an almost mocking curiosity, his smirk wide. "You've put on quite the show, but this is checkmate unless you have something else."
Yuya grit his teeth, sweat trickling down his brow. The pressure of Ryuki's trap weighed on him, but the fire in his heart refused to extinguish. "Tch... I've come too far to give up now. This duel isn't over!"
His sharp eyes scanned the battlefield, and then—he spotted it. Glinting faintly atop the tallest tower of the town square was an Action Card.
"There!" Yuya's voice rang with renewed determination. Without hesitation, he sprinted toward the tower.
The crowd leaned forward, the tension crackling in the air. Could Yuya reach it before Ryuki struck back?
"Meteorburst, with me!" Yuya shouted, vaulting onto Odd-Eyes Meteorburst Dragon's back. The dragon roared, wings beating against the wind as they soared above the battlefield toward the town square. The duel had become more than just cards—each move carried the weight of their ideals.
As the cold morning air whipped past him, Yuya narrowed his eyes. This is it. I can't hold back now.
"Battle!" he declared, pointing ahead. "Odd-Eyes Absolute Dragon, attack Dragonic Overlord 'The Яe-birth'—Freezing Breath!"
The white dragon exhaled a glacial torrent, icy mist spiraling toward Ryuki's massive crimson Overlord.
"What is he doing?!?!" Sawatari screamed from the sidelines, his voice breaking with disbelief. "That's a boneheaded move if I've ever seen one!"
But even as Sawatari wailed, Yuya wasn't acting recklessly. With a quick dive, he snatched an Action Card perched atop the tower at the center of the square.
"Action Magic: Power Swap!" Yuya's voice rang with confidence. "I switch the ATK of both attacking monsters on the field!"
The dragons' power surged and shifted, glowing energy arcing between them as their stats flipped.
Odd-Eyes Absolute Dragon
ATK: 2800 → 4500
Dragonic Overlord "The Яe-birth"
ATK: 4500 → 2800
Ryuki's eyes widened, the first flicker of surprise breaking through his calm exterior. "Tch. Impressive... but I'm not finished yet!"
"Trap open—Scarlet Veil!" Ryuki countered, his voice as sharp as his resolve. A crimson shroud enveloped him, flickering like a burning aura. "Until the End Phase, as long as I have five or more FIRE monsters in my graveyard, I'll take only half the damage this turn!"
Odd-Eyes Absolute's blizzard slammed into the Overlord, shards of enchanted ice lacerating the towering dragon. With a deafening crack, The Яe-birth shattered into fragments, vanishing into the void. The backlash of the attack sent shards flying, tearing into Ryuki's coat, cutting shallow wounds across his arms and chest.
Ryuki: 2000 → 1150
The chains binding Yuya's dragons flickered. "Since my Fusion Monster is destroyed," Ryuki continued through ragged breaths, "Dragonic Chains no longer negates all monsters on the field. But I'll target Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon and seal its effects!"
The glowing binds vanished from Absolute and Meteorburst, but Gravity remained shackled.
Yuya seized the moment. "Odd-Eyes Meteorburst Dragon! Direct attack—Chaos Meteor Impact!"
Meteorburst's maw opened, gathering a blazing sphere of flame the size of a boulder. It launched downward in a streak of light, a meteor descending straight for Ryuki.
But Ryuki wasn't done. "Quick-Play Spell—Emergency Provisions!" He thrust three fingers forward, sending his remaining set cards streaking toward his graveyard. "I send my three face-downs to the grave and gain 1000 LP for each! And with Scarlet Veil, I'll only take half your damage!"
Ryuki: 1150 → 4150
The meteor exploded on impact, detonating in a shockwave of flame and dust. Ryuki was hurled back, his body colliding hard against the jagged remains of the castle wall. The impact drove the air from his lungs.
Ryuki: 4150 → 2900
"Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon! Finish it—direct attack, Gravity Knocking!"
The brown dragon swung its tail, striking the earth with a force that warped the battlefield itself. Gravity intensified around Ryuki, pressing down on him like an invisible mountain. He groaned, the weight forcing him to his knees before slamming him flat against the ground.
Ryuki: 2900 → 1500
"Ryuki!" Ruri's voice cracked with desperation. Emi and Rin shouted too, their cries echoing across the square. They could see him writhing, battered and bloodied, yet still refusing to yield. Their hearts pounded in fear and awe. This wasn't just a duel anymore—it was a clash of wills.
The red markings of the Яeverse began to fade from Ryuki's body, dissipating like mist in the morning sun as The Яe-birth's destruction severed its hold. His breathing was ragged; sweat and blood mixed as he planted a trembling hand on the cracked ground. Slowly, painfully, Ryuki pushed himself upright.
Yuya watched in silence, chest heaving from the intensity of his own onslaught. He had struck with everything he had, but Ryuki's resolve burned brighter than ever. Despite his injuries, despite the punishing blows, Ryuki was smiling. A faint, almost serene grin curved across his lips.
"Not... bad," Ryuki rasped, his voice carrying through the heavy air. "That... was a hell of a hit."
Yuya's hand trembled slightly as he lowered his duel disk. For a brief moment, his showman's bravado faltered, replaced by quiet respect. He could see it now—Ryuki wasn't his enemy. He was a duelist who carried his own unshakable convictions, someone walking a path Yuya understood all too well.
"I..." Yuya exhaled heavily, the tension of the turn finally crashing over him. "I end my turn."
The crowd remained silent for a heartbeat, stunned by the exchange. The only sounds were Yuya's labored breathing and Ryuki's faint chuckle as he steadied himself, battle-worn but unbroken.
Yuya: 2200 | Hand: 1
Ryuki: 1500 | Hand: 3
The duel wasn't over. Far from it. And everyone watching knew—this was about to reach its most decisive moment yet.
Turn 6 – Ryuki
The Dragon Empire's capital was no longer the proud and vibrant city it once was. Streets lay cracked and burning, the skyline reduced to jagged silhouettes of ruined towers. Only the most fortified structures still stood defiantly against the chaos—chief among them, the towering scarlet castle looming behind Ryuki like a silent witness to the carnage.
Ryuki staggered to his feet amidst the smoke and falling ash. His breathing was ragged, and blood trickled down the side of his face from a cut on his forehead. He swiped it away quickly, refusing to let it blind him. His crimson eyes burned—not with anger, but with unwavering determination. This was his duel, his battlefield, and he wasn't ready to fall.
"Atashi no... TURN!" His voice cut sharply through the howling wind as he drew his next card. The moment his fingers pulled it from the deck, a faint smile curved on his lips. He clenched it tightly, as though the card itself carried the weight of his will.
He raised his gaze toward his opponent, his tone calm yet deadly serious.
"Yuya... I have to ask you something. In this duel, how many Fusion monsters I have on my graveyard so far?"
Yuya blinked, caught off guard by the sudden question. His brows furrowed as he quickly thought back, and then his expression shifted to mild shock when the realization hit him.
"Hmm... if I'm counting correctly... you already have eight Fusion monsters."
The answer rippled through the spectators like a shockwave.
Aichi's eyes widened as the pieces clicked in his mind. "I remember now! Ryuki-kun has been building up for this moment the entire duel!" His voice trembled with excitement and awe.
Emi, still unsure, looked to her brother. "Aichi, you know something about this?"
Aichi nodded, his tone urgent. "In our world, there are cards that require at least eight G-Units to have been used before their power can be unlocked. If you translate that into Duel Monsters..."
Christopher's voice overlapped, finishing the thought with a shout. "Ryuki's already played eight Fusion monsters—he's met the conditions!"
Kenji and Kazumi exchanged stunned glances as the full weight of what that meant dawned on them. Even Yuya felt a shiver crawl down his spine. Ryuki's battered form didn't match the fiery aura of resolve emanating from him now. This wasn't just survival—he was ready to end this.
Ryuki raised his hand, slamming a card onto his duel disk.
"From my hand, I activate the Spell Card—Generation Fusion!"
A pulse of fiery energy burst from the card, shaking the battlefield as arcs of flame traced symbols across the ruined ground. Ryuki's voice boomed with authority.
"This card can only be activated if I've had six or more Fusion monsters in my graveyard! And with it, I call back three mighty dragons from my graveyard! Their effects are negated, but their strength is all I need! Arise once more—'The Purge'! 'The Ace'! 'The X'!"
Three colossal pillars of fire erupted around him, lighting up the battlefield like miniature suns. From the blazing columns emerged Ryuki's legendary dragons, their roars echoing like war drums announcing the coming of an emperor.
Supreme Heavenly Emperor Dragon, Dragonic Overlord "The Purge"
Level 12 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect
ATK: 5000 / DEF: 4000
Supreme Heavenly Emperor Dragon, Dragonic Overlord "The Ace"
Level 12 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect
ATK: 4000 / DEF: 3500
Dragonic Overlord "The X"
Level 10 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect / Legion
ATK: 3500 / DEF: 2700
Their wings spread wide, blotting out the moonlight with burning crimson radiance. Even stripped of their effects, the sheer presence of the trio sent shockwaves of awe and dread through everyone present.
Yuya instinctively took a step back, sweat dripping down his temple. "He brought them all back at once..."
But Ryuki wasn't done. His voice grew louder, stronger, reverberating through the ruined city as if the dragons themselves chanted alongside him.
"Now... witness one of my strongest monsters! The dragons of old shall unite their flames and forge the throne of the Emperor!"
The scarlet castle's massive gates began to creak open, light spilling from within. The three dragons took flight, their wings leaving fiery trails as they soared into the blazing halls of the castle. As they disappeared into the light, Ryuki extended his arm and began his incantation—a summoning chant that carried the weight of his entire journey.
"Blazing wings that pierce the heavens!
Forge the emperor's throne with flame and glory!
Shine upon the battlefield, and lead all to victory!
Fusion Summon! Arise—Level 12! Supreme Heavenly Emperor Dragon—Blazing Burst Dragon!"
The castle gates exploded outward in a storm of flame and molten light. From the inferno emerged a majestic humanoid dragon, cloaked in radiant gold and silver armor that gleamed like the dawn. Its red wings ignited with roaring fire, and on each shoulder sat twin minigun barrels, fully loaded with belts of glowing, ember-like ammunition. The dragon let out a thunderous roar that shook the heavens.
Supreme Heavenly Emperor Dragon, Blazing Burst Dragon
Level 12 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect
ATK: 4000 / DEF: 4000
The sheer majesty of the creature drew gasps from everyone present. Kazumi's voice trembled in awe. "I've never seen anything like it...I've faced Chrono's Beyond Order Dragon but...this is on another level..."
Aichi's hands clenched as he smiled. "That's one of Ryuki-kun's strongest monsters."
Yuya, despite the danger, felt a grin tug at his lips. His heart pounded—not out of fear, but out of exhilaration. "Show me, Ryuki! Show me the full might of your dragon!"
Ryuki wiped the blood from his chin and pointed straight at Yuya, his voice resonating with unshakable conviction.
"This duel... this war... it all comes down to this, Yuya! Blazing Burst Dragon will decide our fates!"
The battlefield trembled as the newly summoned emperor spread its flaming wings, preparing to unleash devastation.
The air around the battlefield seemed to ignite with tension as Ryuki's next words thundered through the ruined cityscape.
"If Blazing Burst Dragon is summoned and I have 5 Fusion Monsters in my graveyard," Ryuki declared, voice like rolling thunder, "this card cannot be destroyed."
The declaration hit Yuya harder than any bullet. His stomach dropped. Five Fusions already? That means my usual tactics won't work anymore... The very thought made his chest tighten. Taking down a 4000 ATK dragon that couldn't be destroyed would be a nightmare—and Ryuki wasn't done yet.
"Battle!" Ryuki's arm slashed downward, his eyes ablaze with the ferocity of a duelist on the edge. "Blazing Burst Dragon—attack Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon! And now... I activate its special ability: Fusion Break Eight!"
The great dragon reared back, metallic wings rattling like war drums as the cannons along its armored body locked into position. Its roar shook the ruined towers around them.
"Fusion Break... EIGHT?!" Yuya's voice cracked in disbelief.
"This skill," Ryuki continued with chilling calmness, "can only be used if I have 8 Fusion Monsters in my graveyard. And what Blazing Burst Dragon does... is simple. Once per turn, when this card attacks... every single card on the field, except the attack target, is destroyed. Even mine. Now—Blazing Burst Dragon!"
His hand cut through the air like a guillotine.
"KAMIKAZE BARRAGE!!!"
What followed was chaos.
Blazing Burst Dragon's cannons unleashed a storm of flaming bullets and explosive shells in all directions. The onslaught obliterated Yuya's field—Odd-Eyes Absolute Dragon, Odd-Eyes Meteorburst Dragon, Odd-Eyes Arc Pendulum Dragon—all gone in a cascade of light. Even Ryuki's own Dragonic Chain trap disintegrated in the inferno.
But the destruction didn't stop at the duel disk. Stray blasts tore through the holographic battlefield and raked across the actual cityscape. Buildings crumbled, windows shattered, and the castle behind them collapsed into smoking rubble. The duelists spectating from the sidelines screamed and ducked for cover as debris rained down.
When the smoke cleared, only Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon remained on Yuya's side.
Yuya could barely breathe. His life points still held, but the battlefield around him looked like the aftermath of a war.
"You're lucky, Yuya." Ryuki's voice cut through the smoke, even and cold. "If I had any other monsters on my field, their ATK would've increased by 2000. If that had happened... this duel would already be over."
The chilling implication sent shivers down the spines of everyone watching. Even Reiji, who always maintained an analytical poker face, frowned at the sheer destructive power Ryuki had unleashed.
But Ryuki wasn't finished.
"And since three or more cards were destroyed by that effect..." His dragon's cannons rotated, glowing brighter than ever. "Blazing Burst Dragon's ATK is doubled. And there's one more thing: if I have at least six Fusion Monsters in my graveyard—and I have—you cannot negate this attack."
The dragon's roar split the heavens as its body burned with an even greater light.
Supreme Heavenly Emperor Dragon, Blazing Burst Dragon
ATK: 4000 → 8000
Yuya's heart seized. Eight thousand... I'll be crushed if this lands...
No hesitation. He sprinted across the wreckage, boots slipping on crumbled stone as he desperately searched for an Action Card among the scattered debris. His body screamed in protest, still bruised from earlier attacks, but he pushed forward.
"Blazing Burst Dragon!" Ryuki's voice roared like a commandment from the gods. "FINAL REVOLVER!!!"
The Emperor Dragon unleashed hell. A barrage of molten bullets and searing energy descended like a storm of meteors, each shot aimed to obliterate Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon.
By some miracle—or perhaps sheer will—Yuya's hand closed around a card glinting beneath a collapsed wall. With no time to think, he activated it mid-sprint.
"Action Magic: Flame Mirror!" Yuya shouted, voice hoarse but defiant. "When a FIRE monster declares an attack, I can target one monster I control, and it gains ATK equal to the attacking monster's original ATK!"
The crowd gasped.
Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon
ATK: 2800 → 6800
The dragon braced itself as the barrage struck. The impact sent shockwaves tearing across the ground. Yuya was caught in the backdraft and flung like a ragdoll through the rubble, slamming hard against one of the few walls still standing. Blood streaked his forehead.
Yuya: 2200 → 1000
"YUYA!" Yuzu's scream echoed, raw with panic, as she and Gongenzaka scrambled toward the barrier separating them from the duel.
Yuya coughed violently, vision blurring, but he forced himself to stand. Across the field, Ryuki's own forehead was bleeding, their duel now more brutal and dangerous than anyone had anticipated.
"We've got to stop this now! Both of them are hurt!" Yuzu turned desperately to Reiji. "Reiji, please! Shut the duel down before they kill themselves!"
Reiji hesitated. He could see her point—both duelists were reaching their physical and mental limits. But he also knew the truth: even if he intervened, neither Yuya nor Ryuki would accept it. Their determination burned too brightly to be extinguished.
A sharp voice suddenly cut through the tense silence.
"Ryuki-kun! Take down the prison now! Once either one of you loses, none of you will take the Judgement!"
It was Aichi, and his words carried an ominous weight that silenced even the panicked murmurs of the spectators.
"Judgement?" Gongenzaka's brows furrowed.
Aichi's tone turned grim. "A punishment devised by the Quatre Knights. If you lose while the prison field is active, you'll receive the Judgement. Since this is Ryuki's element... the loser will burn."
The blood drained from several faces. Even the usually stoic Shun shivered involuntarily—he knew all too well what Judgement felt like.
Ryuki didn't respond to the comments. His gaze lowered briefly to his hand. Only one card left that can negate a single attack... I have to time it perfectly. With a tired exhale, he gestured toward his field.
"I end my turn." His voice was calm but heavy. "At this moment, Blazing Burst Dragon's ATK returns to normal."
Supreme Heavenly Emperor Dragon, Blazing Burst Dragon
ATK: 8000 → 4000
Yuya staggered back to his feet, clutching his duel disk. His voice was ragged, but still carried that spark—the same spark that defined him as an Entertainment Duelist.
"Odd-Eyes Absolute Dragon's effect..." Yuya raised his hand, sweat dripping from his brow. "If this card was Xyz Summoned and sent to the Graveyard, I can Special Summon one Odd-Eyes monster from my Extra Deck..."
The summoning circle spun open behind him as he thrust his arm forward.
"Come forth... Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon!"
The black-and-purple dragon let out a chilling cry as it descended, its eyes gleaming with eerie determination, reflecting Yuya's own battered resolve.
Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon
Level 7 / DARK / Dragon / Pendulum / Effect
ATK: 2500 / DEF: 2000 | PS: 4
Both duelists stood, bloodied and exhausted, yet unyielding. Their dragons stared each other down amid the ruins, and the air crackled with the promise that the next turn could decide everything.
Yuya: 1000 | Hand: 1
Ryuki: 1500 | Hand: 3
Turn 7 – Yuya
"This duel... it's gone way too far... I'm down to a single card in my hand, and this turn—this might be my last shot to decide everything. Just one more time... please, answer my call..." Yuya whispered under his breath, his voice trembling but resolute. His heart pounded in his chest; he could feel the weight of everyone's hopes, his own dreams, and the thrill of the duel pressing down on him.
He raised his trembling hand over his deck.
"My turn! Dr—"
Yuya suddenly froze. His hand hovered inches from the top card, his eyes going blank.
"Yuya?!" Yuzu cried out, alarm breaking through her voice.
"Oi! Yuya! Are you alright?!" Gongenzaka's booming call followed.
Even Ryuki's usually calm tone sharpened with concern. "Yuya, what's wrong?"
But none of them received an answer.
To their shock, Yuya's consciousness had drifted away from the arena. The roar of the duel faded, the world dissolved—and when Yuya opened his eyes again, he stood in an endless white void. There was no ground, no sky, only a blinding expanse of nothingness that stretched forever.
"Where... am I?" Yuya muttered, looking around in panic. His voice echoed strangely, bouncing back at him in the emptiness. "What is this place...?"
A strange presence tugged at his awareness. Almost instinctively, Yuya called out.
"Is... someone here?"
To his surprise, his wish was answered.
A figure emerged from the whiteness, as though stepping out of thin air. A young man around Yuya's age, his expression calm yet carrying a strange weight of sorrow. He wore a long white coat that billowed despite the absence of wind, paired with dark blue pants. His silver hair glimmered faintly against the void.
Yuya's breath caught in his throat. The boy's face—
He looked exactly like him.
"Who... who are you?" Yuya asked, startled.
The stranger smiled faintly. "My name is Zarc. And right now... you're inside your own consciousness."
Yuya blinked. "My... consciousness?"
None of this made sense. Why now, in the middle of such a critical duel?
Zarc nodded solemnly. "The duel with Ryuki has taken more of a toll on you than you realize. Your heart—your very soul—needed this moment."
Yuya hesitated. He didn't fully understand, but something deep down told him this encounter wasn't a dream.
"Then tell me... why do you look like me? And Yuto, Yugo, Yuri... why do we all share the same face?"
For the first time, Zarc's eyes softened with something like melancholy. "If you want those answers... you'll need to ask Ryuki himself. He knows."
"Ryuki?!" Yuya's eyes widened. Ryuki knew about this? About Zarc? About them all?
Zarc chuckled quietly. "I owe Ryuki everything. Without him, I wouldn't even be standing here, speaking to you now. But the full story... that's for another time."
Yuya clenched his fists. "But... what's the point then? I can't win like this. I only have one card in my hand and my field's completely empty. There's no way I can beat Ryuki..."
Zarc stepped closer, resting a hand over Yuya's heart. "Listen, Yuya. You've already taken the first step. Trust in yourself. Trust in the joy that dueling brings you. And most of all—let the Pendulum guide your way."
Suddenly, Yuya felt his deck pulse in his soul. The card of Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon glimmered in his mind—and before his very eyes, its form began to change. The card's edges warped into something brighter, stronger, like it had awakened.
Yuya's breath hitched as he stared. He didn't know how, but he understood exactly what needed to be done.
Zarc's faint smile grew warmer. "That's it. Now go. Win the duel your way. And when this is over... talk to Ryuki. He'll tell you everything."
The void began to fade. Zarc's image blurred as Yuya felt himself being pulled back.
"Good luck, Yuya," Zarc's voice echoed one last time.
Yuya's eyes snapped open as he gasped for breath, reality flooding back. The blinding lights of the arena and the concerned faces of his friends came back into focus.
"Yuya!" Yuzu's voice carried relief and worry.
"You zoned out there," Gongenzaka said.
Ryuki's calm voice followed. "Are you alright?"
Yuya shook his head, still reeling from the encounter, but a determined smile formed on his lips. "Sorry about that, everyone. I just... blanked out for a moment."
He glanced at Ryuki for the briefest second. Zarc's words echoed in his mind. He wanted—no, needed—to talk to Ryuki after this duel. But for now, the duel came first.
Yuya placed his hand over his deck. "Anyway... Draw!"
He drew his card, and the second he saw it, his eyes widened.
"This... this is it!" he whispered, his voice trembling with excitement. His signature smile spread across his face, that familiar, unshakable joy that inspired everyone who watched him duel.
"Hope you're ready, Ryuki—because this is the main event!"
Ryuki chuckled softly, a small but approving smile forming on his face. Yuya's resolve was solid as steel now. He snapped his fingers—and the blazing walls of Perdition Blaze Prison that surrounded Yuya dissolved into nothing.
"Ryuki-kun just took off the prison?!" Aichi exclaimed in surprise from the sidelines.
Reiji's lips curled in satisfaction. "It seems Yuya passed the trial. His spirit hasn't faltered."
The atmosphere shifted. Everyone could feel it—the duel had reached its true climax. And for the first time since the duel began, Yuya felt like he wasn't alone; Zarc's words still lingered in his heart.
This turn... this was where everything changed.
"Here I come, Ryuki!" Yuya called out, his voice echoing across the devastated field. His eyes burned with resolve, no longer wavering. "From my hand, I activate the Spell Card—Pendulum Wonder Trade!"
A burst of vibrant light erupted from Yuya's Duel Disk as the card activated. "I banish one random Pendulum Monster from my Deck, and in return, I return 1 Pendulum Monster in my field to the deck and I can add two Pendulum Monsters from my Extra Deck to my hand!"
A holographic roulette of cards spun rapidly above Yuya, before one card shot out and dissolved into motes of shimmering light.
"The random card banished is Entermate Cheermole! I return Odd-Eyes Phantom Dragon back to the deck and from my Extra Deck, I return Synthesis Magician and Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon to my hand!"
As the cards slid into his hand, Yuya took a deep breath. His next move wasn't just a play—it was a declaration. "Now, I'll set the stage once more! I place Scale 3 Antithesis Magician and Scale 8 Synthesis Magician into my Pendulum Zones! I set the Pendulum Scale!"
Two beams of light erupted from his Duel Disk, forming two majestic arcs on either side of Yuya. From within, the figures of his chosen monsters appeared. Alongside the familiar Synthesis Magician stood a new warrior—Antithesis Magician, a man with flowing violet hair clad in white-and-green armor, a strange shield with twin blades attached on both ends gripped firmly in his hand.
Antithesis Magician
Level 7 / DARK / Spellcaster / Pendulum / Effect
ATK: 2500 / DEF: 500 | PS: 3
Synthesis Magician
Level 4 / LIGHT / Spellcaster / Pendulum / Effect
ATK: 500 / DEF: 1500 | PS: 8
"With these scales, I can summon monsters from Level 4 to Level 7 simultaneously!" Yuya spread his arms wide, his voice rising with passion. "Swing, Pendulum of the soul! Carve an arc of light that bridges the ether! Pendulum Summon!"
The ground trembled as the portal between the scales opened. "Appear, my partner! Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"
With a mighty roar, the majestic dragon burst forth from the shimmering light, landing beside Yuya. Its crimson eyes blazed with energy, and its sleek body reflected the ruined cityscape around them.
Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon
Level 7 / DARK / Dragon / Pendulum / Effect / Legion
ATK: 2500 / DEF: 2000 | PS: 4
"He only summoned his Odd-Eyes...?" Gongenzaka muttered, brows furrowed in confusion. "Why call just one monster? He could've flooded the field!"
But Ryuki remained silent, his calm gaze fixed on Yuya, sensing there was more beneath the surface.
Yuya clenched his fist and looked straight at his opponent—no, his brother. "Ryuki... I'll admit it. You're one of the strongest duelists I've ever faced. And more than that..." His voice trembled with emotion. "...I see you as my brother too. So now—let me show you my new power!"
He thrust his arm toward his dragon. "Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! Seek the Mate!"
The crowd of spectators gasped in unison.
"What did he just say?!" Sawatari's jaw nearly hit the ground. "Seek the Mate?!"
"That means—!" Ruri's eyes widened in awe.
Rin finished the thought as Yuto, Yugo, and Yuri shouted in perfect unison: "Yuya can perform Legion!!"
A blinding pillar of light erupted from Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon as the ground beneath them cracked. Above the ruined city, the light pierced the heavens, and five cards from Yuya's Graveyard spiraled upward, returning to his Deck. Then, one card shot out, glowing brilliantly as Yuya caught it with steady hands.
He closed his eyes for a moment, feeling the warmth of his father's spirit within the card. "Bonds that transcend fantasy and reality..." Yuya raised the card high. "Let the connection of two souls step upon this grand stage and shine above the Pendulum! Appear—" His voice thundered as he slammed the card down. "Entermate Sky Magician! Legion!"
A radiant golden V-shaped emblem materialized above Odd-Eyes as another figure descended from the light—a magician floating gracefully above the dragon. Entermate Sky Magician had no legs, his lower body instead a swirl of wind and light. His elegant white robes fluttered dramatically, his massive white cape gleamed under the sun, and in his hands he wielded four interlocked rings that pulsed with energy.
Entermate Sky Magician
Level 7 / WIND / Spellcaster / Effect / Mate
ATK: 2500 / DEF: 2000
The reaction from Yuya's friends was instant.
"Sky Magician?!" Yuzu cried, clutching her chest in shock. "That's—!"
"That's Yusho-sensei's card!" Ruri exclaimed, her voice trembling with emotion.
"But how did Yuya even get that?!" Rin asked, completely stunned.
Ryuki, however, already knew the answer. His eyes softened with understanding. "...The letter," he murmured.
Yuya met his gaze and nodded. "Yeah. When you gave me Dad's letter, Sky Magician was with it. He told me to use it wisely... to find the right moment." Yuya's voice quivered with conviction as he pointed dramatically at his brother. "And Ryuki, this is that moment! This is the time I'll use it—for the sake of the new me!"
There was a pause—then Ryuki's lips curled into a warm, proud smile. He saw not the boy who once hid behind a mask of laughter, but a duelist standing tall, embracing his pain and joy alike. "Yuya... you've grown so much," Ryuki said softly, almost to himself. "Show me this power of yours. I'll face it head-on."
Odd-Eyes roared again, its cry harmonizing with Sky Magician's ethereal chime as the golden Legion emblem blazed overhead. The battlefield felt alive, resonating with Yuya's newfound resolve. Even the spectators could feel it; Yuto, Yugo, and Yuri couldn't help but smirk with pride, while Gongenzaka's fists trembled in excitement.
"This duel..." Yuzu whispered, tears threatening to spill. "...Yuya's proving who he really is."
Ruri nodded, her voice filled with admiration. "This isn't just about winning anymore. This is his heart speaking through his cards."
Sawatari crossed his arms with a huff, though even he couldn't hide his grin. "Hmph. About time he showed something flashy enough to match my dueling style!"
Rin let out a whistle. "I'll admit, Yuya—this is pretty damn cool."
Above them all, Yuya stood tall, the wind from Sky Magician's presence fluttering his jacket. He looked to Ryuki with a grin, but behind that grin was a deep, burning sincerity. "This is my answer, Ryuki. Not just as a duelist, but as your little brother."
Ryuki's eyes narrowed slightly, his own heart stirring with emotions he didn't often let show. "Then come at me, Yuya. Let your bond guide your moves—and let's see if it's strong enough to overcome me."
The stage was set. Odd-Eyes and Sky Magician hovered side by side, their bond manifest in the radiant V between them. Yuya's turn was far from over, and already the entire battlefield seemed to hold its breath.
"Now that my Legion is in place, Odd-Eyes and Sky Magician's powers are united as one!" Yuya's voice thundered across the battlefield, determination blazing in his eyes.
Legion (Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon + Entermate Sky Magician)
ATK: 5000 / DEF: 4000
The fused form of Yuya's monsters stood tall, its energy radiating in dazzling arcs of multicolored light. The combined aura of Odd-Eyes' draconic power and Sky Magician's mystical rings warped the very air, creating ripples of energy that sent dust scattering around the arena.
"And now," Yuya raised his arm, "I activate Sky Magician's effect! When he's summoned through Legion, I draw one card! And if it's a Spell Card, Legion's attack rises by 1000! Draw!"
Yuya swiped the top card of his deck with a confident flourish. The holographic card gleamed brightly as he revealed it to the audience—Pendulum Halt. The crowd gasped, and a surge of energy flared around Legion.
Legion
ATK: 5000 → 6000
A mixture of awe and tension filled the air as Yuya pointed forward. "Battle! Legion, attack Blazing Burst Dragon!" His voice carried the weight of his conviction, echoing across the duel field. "And at this moment, Odd-Eyes' Legion effect activates! When Legion attacks a Level 5 or higher monster, it gains ATK equal to 200 times that monster's Level! And Sky Magician's Legion effect—when I have a Spell Card in hand, I can negate one card's effect on your field! I negate Blazing Burst Dragon!"
On the field, Sky Magician spun his magical rings with a flourish, pulling off an elaborate display of sleight-of-hand tricks that ended with a burst of light. Ryuki's Blazing Burst Dragon roared, its fiery aura sputtering out as its effects were sealed. Odd-Eyes roared alongside, its claws glowing with amplified power.
Legion ATK: 6000 → 8200
The atmosphere crackled as Yuya pressed on. "And there's more! Sky Magician's other Legion effect activates! Once per turn, when it attacks, I can discard one Spell Card from my hand. And when I do—you can't activate any effects from your hand this turn!"
Yuya slid his remaining Spell into the graveyard. A shimmering barrier of rings expanded outward, locking Ryuki's hand in place with magical chains. Ryuki glanced at his hand, where the card Aegis of the Immortal glimmered uselessly. His eyes widened slightly before softening into a proud smile.
He's grown... He's grown beyond even Yusho-san..., Ryuki thought. Lowering his Duel Disk, he closed his eyes in acceptance. For the first time since arriving in the Standard Dimension, defeat loomed before him—and he welcomed it.
Yuya's eyes softened as he saw Ryuki's expression. "I'll end this in style. Legion, unleash your full brilliance—Kaleidoscope Spiral Burst!!!"
Sky Magician's four massive rings detached, spinning into alignment like celestial orbits. Odd-Eyes leapt skyward, energy surging into its maw. A deep crimson beam erupted, weaving through the rings. As it passed through each, the energy refracted into a radiant cascade of colors, transforming into a spiraling, kaleidoscopic inferno. The beam struck Blazing Burst Dragon head-on. Ryuki closed his eyes, the blast reflecting in his lashes like shards of stained glass.
A thunderous explosion shook the field. When the dust cleared, Blazing Burst Dragon had been obliterated.
Ryuki LP: 1500 → 0
"That's it! Yuya wins!" Yuzu cried, jumping with joy. Her voice cracked slightly from the overwhelming pride and relief she felt.
"Impossible..." Yuri muttered, wide-eyed, his smirk wiped clean. Yuya had achieved what Yuri himself had long dreamed of—defeating Ryuki, the indomitable Flame Monarch.
Cheers erupted from the sidelines for a great duel, but then a strange silence followed. A subtle electronic hum filled the air. The duel system had not announced the winner. The victory fanfare never played.
"Wait," Reiji's voice broke through the tension, calm and measured. "The system hasn't declared Yuya the victor yet."
The realization rippled through the group. Gongenzaka's jaw dropped. "D-Don't tell me... does Ryuki have Aegis of the Immortal again?!"
Some duelists exchanged puzzled looks. "What's Aegis of the Immortal?" Serena asked, her brow furrowed.
Reiji adjusted his glasses. "A powerful, almost absurd card. It only works if drawn during the Draw Phase. If its user's LP would drop to zero, they can banish it from their hand to restore their LP to 4000. Then they draw until they have five cards, and the battle phase ends."
As Reiji explained, Serena, Yuto, Yugo, Yuri, Barrett, Fubuki, and several Cardfighters stared, jaws agape. The sheer unfairness of the card left them dumbfounded.
"If that's the case, then Ryuki shouldn't be able to activate it!" Sawatari exclaimed, gesturing wildly. "Sky Magician sealed off his hand effects! Unless..."
Back on the field, Ryuki slowly stirred. The smoke parted to reveal him lying on one knee, his Duel Disk sparking faintly. His breath was ragged, but his resolve was unbroken. He raised a trembling hand, revealing a single card glowing in his graveyard.
"I... activate a Trap... from my graveyard..." he rasped. "Overlord's Bargain."
"AHA! I knew there was something fishy!" Sawatari shouted, pointing dramatically. "That madman had a graveyard trick all along!"
Ryuki continued, voice steady despite his exhaustion. "Overlord's Bargain can only be activated from the graveyard when my LP drops to zero. I discard my entire hand, then banish one Dragonic Overlord Fusion Monster from my graveyard or Extra Deck to gain 1000 LP per banished monster's name. I banish Dragonic Overlord "The Legend"."
The hologram of The Legend flared one last time before disintegrating into fiery embers.
Ryuki LP: 0 → 1000
A shocked hush fell over the arena, followed by an uproar. Ryuki had done it again. He cheated defeat not once, but twice—the first time against Reiji, and now against Yuya.
"He's... unbelievable," Yuto muttered. "He refuses to stay down."
Yuya blinked at Ryuki, then suddenly broke into laughter. It wasn't mocking—it was warm, proud. "Heh... you never change, Ryuki. Always pulling off the impossible." Yuya's heart swelled with respect. He had given his all, and Ryuki had answered in kind.
As Yuya ended his turn, Legion's kaleidoscopic glow dimmed, its power returning to baseline.
Legion ATK: 8200 → 5000
The dust settled. Both duelists stood across from each other, sweat on their brows, hearts pounding. Their fields were scarred, their hands empty, but their spirits burned brighter than ever.
Yuya LP: 1000 | Hand: 0
Ryuki LP: 1000 | Hand: 0
The audience erupted into cheers and gasps, knowing the duel was far from over. Two titans stood on the brink, evenly matched, and everyone watching knew—the next turn could decide everything.
Turn 8 – Ryuki
"Damn..." Yugo let out a low whistle, collapsing onto the ground as he wiped sweat from his brow. "Ryuki really is impossible to take down. I thought for sure Yuya had him there."
The atmosphere around the duel site still crackled with tension from the last turn's exchange. The spectators could barely breathe, their nerves frayed. Ryuki stood alone on the ruined battlefield—no monsters, no cards in hand, his field completely bare.
Satoru crossed his arms, smiling faintly despite the dire situation. "That's Ryuki for you. He's always been the type who doesn't quit. Like he says almost every match: 'It isn't over till it's over.' Those aren't just words—he lives by them."
Gongenzaka's eyes narrowed as he studied the empty field. "But how? He's got nothing to work with. No monsters, no cards in hand. He's wide open. How can he possibly turn this around?"
"There is a way." Ruri's calm, almost ominous tone drew all eyes toward her. Her gaze never left Ryuki.
Shun blinked, surprised. "There is? Even in this situation?"
Rin nodded slightly, a knowing glint in her eye. "If Ryuki can draw that card... then he'll be able to call that monster." Her confidence mirrored Ruri's; they both knew what miracle Ryuki had to reach for.
Back on the battlefield, Ryuki exhaled slowly. He knew it too—if he wanted to win, it all came down to the next draw. His body ached, his breathing ragged, yet his eyes burned with unyielding resolve.
"Looks like you're in a pinch, boy," a deep, amused voice echoed in his mind.
Ryuki smirked faintly. "No kidding. Aside from my duel with Reiji a few months back, this might be the toughest fight I've had. But don't count me out yet, Drachma. I've got this."
A low rumble like a dragon's growl reverberated in his consciousness. "You think you can draw the one card you need?" Drachma asked, his tone now serious.
Ryuki clenched his fist. "I don't think. I know. Watch me."
Heat flared faintly along his temples as PSYqualia activated, filling his vision with a burning, scarlet light. His heartbeat slowed. The world narrowed to a single point—his next draw.
"Atashi no turn..." His voice rang out, steady and defiant. "DRAW!!!"
The card slid from his deck with a trail of shimmering flame. Gasps erupted from the watching crowd; the card itself seemed to blaze with destiny. Ryuki's lips curled into a confident grin as he glanced at it.
"It's over, Yuya," he said, voice firm but respectful. "This duel's been amazing—one of the best I've ever had. You've got talent, and I can already see it... you've surpassed your father, Yusho-san. And maybe... one day, you'll surpass me too. But for now—this is where it ends!"
He raised the drawn card high. "From my hand, I activate the Spell Card—Zeroth Fusion!"
At once, the emblem of the Kagero clan burned brightly on Ryuki's right hand, casting crimson light across the ruined city.
"Zeroth Fusion?!" Gongenzaka exclaimed, stunned. "But doesn't that card require you to discard your entire hand to activate it? Just like Zeroth Synchro and Zeroth Xyz?"
Rin shook her head with a faint smile. "Not quite. The Zeroth Spells share a unique condition: you can activate them either by discarding your whole hand or when you have no cards in hand at all. Ruri and I both used Zeroth Spells back in the first round of the Maiami Championship—remember?"
Gongenzaka nodded slowly, understanding dawning.
Back on the field, a low rumble shook the ground. The temperature began to rise rapidly as crimson fissures spiderwebbed across the scorched battlefield. In the distance, several volcanoes rumbled to life, their dormant fury awakened.
"With this card," Ryuki's voice rang like a war drum, "I Special Summon three Fusion Monsters from my Extra Deck or Graveyard—ignoring all summoning conditions! Their ATK and DEF become 0, and their effects are negated. But they'll serve the one purpose I need!"
A colossal wall of flames erupted behind Ryuki. From the blaze, three draconic silhouettes emerged, each radiating incredible might despite their dimmed power.
"Come forth—"The Purge!", "The Ace!" And Blazing Burst Dragon!"
The flames parted, and Ryuki's three Supreme Heavenly Emperor Dragons roared as they took their place on the field, their bodies dulled to gray by Zeroth Fusion's cost.
Supreme Heavenly Emperor Dragon, Dragonic Overlord "The Purge"
Level 12 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect
ATK: 5000 → 0 / DEF: 4000 → 0
Supreme Heavenly Emperor Dragon, Dragonic Overlord "The Ace"
Level 12 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect
ATK: 4000 → 0 / DEF: 3500 → 0
Supreme Heavenly Emperor Dragon, Blazing Burst Dragon
Level 12 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect
ATK: 4000 → 0 / DEF: 4000 → 0
Even with their strength nullified, the sheer presence of the three heavenly dragons made the air tremble. Yuya swallowed hard, sweat beading his forehead as the oppressive heat intensified.
Ryuki raised his hand skyward. His voice thundered across the battlefield. "Now... with these three dragons, I call upon the might of the Dragon Empire itself! Should I fail to win this turn, I accept my defeat!"
The three dragons roared in unison, their voices shaking the earth. Then, as if obeying some ancient instinct, they turned toward the largest volcano in the distance and soared toward it. Their massive bodies plunged into the molten crater one by one.
A deep silence fell. Even the air seemed to hold its breath.
Ryuki's voice broke through, solemn and powerful:
"The end of all things scorches the heavens... and from the ashes, oblivion is born anew. From the dragon's final breath, let fire and despair become one! Let the world burn in eternal crimson silence! Devour my future and manifest yourself—Dragon Empire's Zeroth Dragon!"
His hand slashed downward. "FUSION SUMMON!!!"
The volcano where his dragons vanished exploded in a blinding eruption of molten rock and flame. A colossal silhouette emerged from within the inferno. The sheer heat made the spectators shield their eyes; the battlefield itself seemed to melt beneath its presence.
A monstrous roar shook the heavens, deafening in its fury. From the flames, an enormous dragon emerged—its body wreathed in molten red scales, wings like blades of burning bright yellow. Every flap of its wings sent waves of scorching wind cascading across the field. The ground cracked. The sky glowed crimson.
"Incinerate all! Level 12—Zeroth Dragon of Inferno, DRACHMA!!!"
Zeroth Dragon of Inferno, Drachma
Level 12 / FIRE / Zeroth Dragon / Fusion / Effect
ATK: 5500 / DEF: 4500
The temperature skyrocketed. Even seasoned duelists like Shun and Gongenzaka broke into sweat. Yugo shielded his eyes. "Holy crap...! That's the Zeroth Dragon?!"
Ruri's lips curled into a faint, knowing smile. "Yes. That's Ryuki's ultimate trump card. The embodiment of Dragon Empire's wrath."
Drachma's roar echoed once more, a sound that felt like the voice of the apocalypse itself. Yuya braced himself, knowing the battle had reached its true climax.
At the sidelines, the atmosphere grew heavy and suffocating. Even the Legendary Dragons themselves reacted to the presence that now towered over the battlefield. Yuto's Dark Rebellion Xyz Dragon, Yugo's Clear Wing Synchro Dragon, and Yuri's Starve Venom Fusion Dragon pulsed with a dim, uneasy glow. The primal instinct of fear seeped into them; this was no ordinary monster—it was a calamity incarnate.
And yet, not all reactions were born of dread. Fubuki's Red-Eyes Black Dragon shone as well, but its aura carried something different—admiration. The Black Dragon's ancient blood resonated with the raw, blazing majesty of Drachma. It recognized overwhelming strength when it saw it.
Ryuki's voice cut through the roaring energy like a blade.
"The moment Drachma is summoned, I can Special Summon two Fusion Monsters from my Extra Deck or Graveyard—ignoring all summoning conditions! Come forth to my side! Perdition Dragon, Vortex Dragonewt! Perdition Emperor Dragon, Dragonic Overlord the Great!"
A deafening roar shook the sky as Drachma spread its colossal wings. Two massive pillars of crimson flame erupted on either side of it, splitting the earth beneath Yuya's feet. From within the inferno emerged two dragon silhouettes, their scales gleaming under the blazing sun.
First came Vortex Dragonewt, its silver scales glimmering like molten steel, spiraling upward in a vortex of flame before it landed beside its master. Then came the crimson behemoth—Dragonic Overlord the Great—whose massive wings cast an intimidating shadow across the entire field. Both dragons let out synchronized roars, the sheer sound rattling windows across the arena.
Perdition Dragon, Vortex Dragonewt
Level 8 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect / Legion
ATK: 3200 / DEF: 2100
Perdition Emperor Dragon, Dragonic Overlord the Great
Level 11 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect / Legion
ATK: 4000 / DEF: 3000
Even the spectators were overwhelmed.
"L-Looks like this duel is as good as over," Yuri muttered, letting out a slow sigh. Outwardly, he acted as though he'd lost interest, but deep inside, his lips curled into a grin. How far can you go, Ryuki? Show me more...
Ryuki raised his arm, eyes glinting with a merciless resolve.
"I activate Drachma's skill! All cards on your field are banished! Along with every card in your hand... and the top ten cards of your deck!"
The declaration sent shockwaves through the arena.
"H-He can do WHAT?!" Sawatari shrieked, his voice cracking in disbelief. Even for him, Drachma's ability was utterly absurd.
Yuya's eyes widened, but he didn't falter. "Tch... I won't let my monsters fall so easily! I activate Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon's effect! By banishing two Spell Cards from my Graveyard, and since this card is Legion, both Odd-Eyes and Sky Magician cannot be destroyed this turn! I banish Pendulum Halt and Odd-Eyes Advent!"
A swirling aura wrapped around Odd-Eyes and Sky Magician, shielding them with a rainbow-colored barrier. But the rest of Yuya's field—including his Pendulum Scales—was incinerated by Drachma's hellfire. The top ten cards of his deck burst into embers mid-air, reduced to ashes before they even hit the ground.
Ryuki's voice was cold, unwavering.
"And for every card banished, all my monsters gain 500 ATK for every two cards. Twelve cards were banished. That's a 3000-point boost for each of them."
The blazing aura around his dragons intensified. Their power skyrocketed.
Perdition Dragon, Vortex Dragonewt
ATK: 3200 → 6200
Perdition Emperor Dragon, Dragonic Overlord the Great
ATK: 4000 → 7000
Zeroth Dragon of Inferno, Drachma
ATK: 5500 → 8500
The sight alone nearly made the spectators' knees buckle. These weren't just monsters—they were walking natural disasters.
Yuya, however, didn't look away. He stood there, sweat dripping from his brow, heart pounding, but his spirit unyielding.
Ryuki raised his hand, his voice carrying finality.
"Battle Phase. Zeroth Dragon of Inferno, Drachma—attack Legion!"
The ground trembled as the colossal Zeroth Dragon took flight, its body eclipsing the sun.
"And I activate Drachma's skill! When this card attacks a Special Summoned monster, it inflicts DOUBLE damage during damage calculation! And don't forget—since I summoned Drachma with Zeroth Fusion, it's immune to all card effects!"
Every spectator gasped. It wasn't just overkill—this was annihilation. Yet, Yuya's eyes blazed with determination.
If I'm going down... then I'll make sure my performance ends with a bang!
"Legion! Kaleidoscope Spiral Burst!" Yuya roared.
Sky Magician's rings aligned into perfect symmetry as Odd-Eyes charged its spiraling energy burst. As the dragon's attack passed through the rings, its flames refracted into a brilliant kaleidoscopic spectrum. The resulting blast shot forward—a dazzling explosion of colors and light, the kind that defined Yuya's dueling style.
Ryuki's lips curved faintly. He understood Yuya's heart. You want to finish with everything you've got... I'll honor that.
"Very well. Drachma—Burning Dragonia!"
Drachma's wings spread wide, blotting out the sky. Its maw opened, summoning an enormous fireball that blazed brighter than the sun itself. The sheer heat distorted the air, making even the spectators flinch. With a deafening roar, Drachma hurled the miniature sun forward.
The two attacks collided mid-air. For a brief, awe-inspiring second, the battlefield was a whirl of spiraling colors and blazing fire, as if creation and destruction clashed head-on. But the overwhelming might of Drachma's flames devoured Yuya's kaleidoscopic burst. The resulting explosion consumed Odd-Eyes and Sky Magician, reducing them to ash.
Yuya's Life Points plummeted.
Yuya: 1000 → 0
The duel disk on his arm dimmed as the holograms faded. Yuya dropped to one knee, panting heavily, sweat dripping onto the floor. His monsters had fought bravely, but against Ryuki's infernal might, they stood no chance.
The field fell silent for a heartbeat before the result was declared.
Winner: Himejima Ryuki.
Gasps and whispers filled the air. Some were awed. Some were terrified. But all knew one thing—Ryuki wasn't just a duelist. He was a force of nature.
And as Drachma let out one last victorious roar before vanishing, everyone felt the lingering heat of its presence.
To be continued...
Cards used in the duel:
Entermate Bubble (Quick-Play Spell)
When an Entermate monster in your field is destroyed and you take damage during damage calculation, the incoming damage is reduced equal to the ATK of the monster destroyed.
Pendulum Draw (Normal Spell)
Draw 1 card equal to each level between your Pendulum Scales.
Odd-Eyes Blessing (Quick-Play Spell)
Target 1 "Pendulum Dragon" monster you control, that card cannot attack. Then, target another "Pendulum Dragon" monster in your field, and that card gains the other cards ATK until the End Phase.
Яe-birth Fusion (Normal Spell)
You can Fusion Summon 1 Dragonic Overlord Fusion Monster using the materials from your deck, hand or Extra Deck, but you can no longer Special Summon any monsters the turn you activated this card. You can only use this card once per duel
Entermate Wall (Normal Trap)
Banish 1 Entermate Monster from your GY, then switch all monsters that has the same level to Defense position.
Magician's Entrance (Normal Spell)
This card can only be used if your LP is lower than your opponent. Once per turn: Special Summon 1 Pendulum Spellcaster Monster from your Pendulum Zone to the field.
Odd-Eyes Release (Normal Spell)
Target 1 Odd-Eyes monster in your field, release it and draw 1 card for every 2 levels that monster has. If this card is in the GY, banish this card along with a Odd-Eyes monster in your GY, then draw 2 cards.
Pendulum Gift (Normal Spell)
Return 1 face-up Pendulum Monster in your Extra Deck to your deck, then you gain 200 LP equal to that monsters Pendulum Scale.
Dragonic Chains (Continuous Trap)
Target 1 monster your opponent controls; it cannot attack or activate effects until the End Phase. If you control a Fusion Monster, it affects all monsters in your opponents field instead. Your opponent pays 500 LP if they want to use the affected monsters effects once per turn.
Scarlet Veil (Normal Trap)
This card can only be activated if you have 5 or more Fusion Monsters in your GY. Until the end of the Battle Phase, all damage inflicted to you is halved.
Generation Fusion (Normal Spell)
This card can only be used if you have at least 6 Fusion Monsters in your GY.
You can Fusion Summon a Flame Dragon Monster by Special Summoning 3 Fusion Monsters from your Extra Deck or GY, but their effects are negated.
Pendulum Wonder Trade (Normal Spell)
Banish 1 random Pendulum Monster from your deck, then add 2 Pendulum Monsters from your Extra Deck to your hand.
Overlord's Bargain (Trap Card)
This card can be activated from the GY if this card was destroyed by a card effect and your LP drops to 0.
Once per turn: Discard your entire hand and banish 1 Dragonic Overlord Fusion Monster from your GY and gain 1000 LP. But at the end of your next turn, you take damage equal to the banished monsters ATK.
Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon
Level 7 / DARK / Dragon / Pendulum / Effect / Legion
ATK: 2500 / DEF: 2000 | PS: 4
Pendulum Effect: If a Pendulum Monster is destroyed by an opponent's card effect, inflict 200 damage to your opponent equal to that monsters Pendulum Scale.
Once per turn: Discard 1 card from your hand, Special Summon this card from your Pendulum Zone and this card gains 500 ATK.
Effect:
When this card is Pendulum Summoned, return 5 cards from your GY to your deck and Special Summon Entermate Sky Magician from your deck and Legion Summon that card to this card.
Once per turn: Banish 2 Spell Cards from your GY, this card cannot be destroyed. If this card is Legion, both this card and its Mate cannot be destroyed.
Legion: When this card attacks and is Legion, and it battles a monster who is level or rank 5, this card gains 200 ATK equal to that monsters level or rank until the End Phase.
Entermate Sky Magician
Level 7 / WIND / Spellcaster / Effect / Legion
ATK: 2500 / DEF: 2000
Mate: When this card is summoned by Legion, draw 1 card, If the card drawn is a Spell Card, this card gains 1000 ATK until the End Phase.
When this card attacks and you have a spell card in your hand, target 1 monster your opponent controls, negate its effects until the End Phase.
Once per turn: Discard 1 Spell Card from your hand, your opponent cannot activate card effects from their hand until the end of the Battle Phase.
Supreme Heavenly Emperor Dragon, Dragonic Overlord "The Purge"
Level 12 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect
ATK: 5000 / DEF: 4000
3 Flame Dragon-Type Fusion Monsters
When this card is Fusion Summoned and your LP is less than 1000, destroy all spells and traps in the field, and all monster effects are negated.
If Dragonic Overlord is used as a Fusion Material, this card is unaffected by your opponent's card effects.
Once per turn: Target one monster in your opponents field and your opponent lose 200 LP equal to that monsters level.
For every Flame Dragon-Type monster in your GY, this card can attack one additional time.
When this card attacks, draw and reveal the top 3 cards in your deck. And for every monster drawn, this card gains 500 ATK.
Dragonic Overlord "The Яe-birth"
Level 12 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect / Limit Break
ATK: 4000 / DEF: 4000
3 FIRE monsters
When this card is Fusion Summoned, and "Dragonic Overlord" is used as Fusion material, this card gets 1000 ATK and your opponent cannot activate monster effects. At the End Phase, as long as "Dragonic Overlord" is in the GY, this card gains 500 ATK at all times.
When this card attacks, draw and reveal 2 cards in your deck and if one of the cards drawn is a FIRE monster, you gain 500 LP. This effect can only be used once per turn
Limit Break: Once per turn: Lock all cards in your field until the end phase, and this card gains 200 ATK for each locked card. (Locked monsters cannot attack, change position, activate effects or be used as material for Extra Deck Monsters. Set Spells/Traps cannot be activated and Face-up Spells/Traps are negated.)
If the number of Locked cards are 3, your opponent cannot activate spells/traps to negate this monsters attack. If the number of Locked cards are 5 or more, this card can attack again.
After this card attacks, discard 2 cards from your hand and this card can attack again.
Supreme Heavenly Emperor Dragon, Blazing Burst Dragon
Level 12 / FIRE / Flame Dragon / Fusion / Effect
ATK: 4000 / DEF: 4000
3 Flame Dragon-type Fusion Monsters
When this card is Fusion Summoned and there are at least 5 or more Flame Dragon Fusion Monsters in the GY, this card cannot be destroyed.
If this card attacks and there are at least 6 Flame Dragon-type Fusion Monsters in the GY, this card is unaffected to all card effects.
Once per turn: This effect can only be used if there are 8 Flame Dragon Fusion Monsters in the GY. When this card attacks, destroy all cards in the field aside from the targeted monster and all FIRE attribute monsters in your field gains 2000 ATK and DEF. If the number of cards destroyed were 3 or more, this card's ATK is doubled.
Zeroth Dragon of Inferno, Drachma
FIRE / Zeroth Dragon / Fusion / Effect
ATK: 5500 / DEF: 4500
3 Fusion Monsters
This card can also be Fusion Summoned by using "Zeroth Fusion". If summoned that way, this card is unaffected to card effects.
When this card is Fusion Summoned, Special Summon 2 Fusion Monsters from your Extra Deck or GY, ignoring its summoning conditions.
Once per turn: Banish all cards on your opponent's field, along with the cards in their hand and the top 10 cards in their deck. And for every card banished, all monsters in your field gain 500 ATK for each 2 cards banished. If the number of banished cards in your opponents field is more than 5, all monsters can attack twice per turn. Then they draw the same number of cards they discarded, and if one of the cards is a monster, Special Summon it. When this card attacks a special summoned monster, this card inflicts double damage during damage calculation.
If you fail to end the duel when this card is summoned, You lose the duel.
If you use "Zeroth Fusion", you lose 2 turns after you summon this card instead of after the turn you summon it.