Chapter 431: Colluding with Dark Forces
"In the future, don't help that guy Kaiba Seto."
Hearing Bakura's words, Hayato narrowed his eyes. He didn't directly refuse, but he didn't agree either. Instead, he crossed his arms over his chest and said, "From what you're saying, it seems you're planning to make a move against KaibaCorp?"
"No, that's not right. It's not just you. You alone can't do much. So let me guess, you, Schroeder Corporation, and Doma?"
"KaibaCorp has been quite in the spotlight recently. Unfortunately, a tall tree catches the wind, so many people have set their sights on him." Bakura gave a cold laugh. "I'm just playing the role of a middleman in this, but even so, you wouldn't want to get into trouble because of Kaiba, right?"
Hayato snorted coldly. "Then you've completely misunderstood me. Kaiba is my friend, we have a life-or-death bond, and we can even be considered brothers."
"But why do I feel like someone like you, who wouldn't get up early without profit, wouldn't care about such things?"
"No, that's why I said you misunderstood." Hayato showed a sly smile. "Since Kaiba is my brother, if he's in trouble, you want me not to help?"
"You'll have to pay extra."
Bakura looked at Hayato, somewhat puzzled. "As far as I know, haven't you already gotten 30% of Industrial Illusions' shares from Pegasus?"
"Who would complain about having too much money?" Hayato said with a look of disdain and jealousy. "That guy Kaiba acts like he looks down on everyone every day, isn't it just because he has some stinking money? Once he's bankrupt, I'd like to see how he can still be so arrogant."
"Besides, I'm quite interested in KaibaCorp's technology."
Hearing Hayato's words, Bakura shook his head. "Just by looking at you, you have no experience. Have you ever schemed against others?"
Hayato also answered honestly, "No."
"Come, let me tell you." Bakura beckoned and lowered his voice as if imparting his experience. "To bring down KaibaCorp, they are doing the heavy lifting. The technology, data, and such are all theirs; we can't touch them. Even KaibaCorp's assets have to be split three-seven."
"Why only seven percent?"
Hayato looked dissatisfied, but was met with Bakura's scoff. "Seven percent is theirs. You getting three percent still depends on their mood."
"Then wouldn't I be begging on my knees!?" Hayato straightened up, looking extremely unwilling.
Bakura didn't seem to find anything wrong, only thinking that Hayato was somewhat persuaded but his greed made him want more. He struck while the iron was hot and said, "If you put it that way, it really is begging on your knees. You think it's shameful? I think it's shameful too. Is there any job nowadays that isn't shameful?"
Speaking of shame, Bakura couldn't help but think of that scoundrel Dark Marik. At first, the two had a good agreement: Bakura would help him get rid of Rishid, and Marik would give the Millennium Rod to Bakura. But who knew this scoundrel would renege and try to double-cross him?
Although he had the Millennium Eye snatched from Pegasus, it ultimately couldn't compare to the Millennium Ring he was used to. That dishonorable scoundrel Marik nearly took him down with a left kick and a right hook. Fortunately, while he wasn't good at anything else, he was the best at escaping, which is how he got away.
Later, when Kaiba's S.S. Anne was hijacked by Noah Kaiba to the Seafront Base, forced by the situation, Marik and Bakura teamed up again. The vengeful Bakura naturally chose the crucial moment to trap Marik and throw him to the Mechanical Troops, getting revenge for the previous humiliation.
But who knew, although that scoundrel had the ability to rampage against those robots, he also learned to be wicked and set Bakura up, taking the Card Uria, Lord of Searing Flames from him.
Finally, he even detonated the Seafront Fortress, sinking it to the bottom of the sea. Truly a villain. If Bakura hadn't been slightly skilled at escaping, he would have been sunk along with it.
However, it was also because he stayed in the fortress for a while longer that Bakura successfully found several Network Vulnerabilities from KaibaCorp's network that he had used in the past, stored in Noah's Database, which hadn't been fixed and were still usable. Using these as leverage, he took the lead in recruiting the two forces, Doma and Schroeder Corporation, bringing them together.
Driven by Bakura, these two forces basically reached an agreement. Schroeder Corporation wanted to eliminate Kaiba Seto and KaibaCorp, whom Zigfried considered a thorn in his side, while Doma also didn't want Duel Monsters to become more popular. They are currently cooperating with the goal of "bringing down KaibaCorp."
As for Bakura's own purpose, neither side knew, because each side only thought Bakura was the other's contact person.
Combining the power of the two forces, the only obstacles left to achieving the goal of bringing down KaibaCorp using the KC Cup are the troublesome guys blocking the way, and the first among them are powerful duelists like Hayato and Yugi.
Bakura's initial purpose for asking Hayato out was to see if he could control him using the Millennium Eye. However, as he wasn't as skilled with the Millennium Eye as Pegasus, the moment he expanded a Mystical Power Domain, it was canceled out by the Millennium Rod and Millennium Ring on Hayato.
However, being able to bribe Hayato Kobayashi was also a stroke of luck.
Hayato frowned and thought for a long time before sighing and saying helplessly, "Deal made. From now on, I won't interfere with your actions against KaibaCorp, and after it's done, thirty percent goes to me."
"Also, you can't actively go and inform Kaiba Seto or leak this matter; that wouldn't be good for anyone." Bakura added. He wasn't worried that Hayato would do anything to go back on the deal.
In fact, although the two were currently standing near the exit of the Safety Passage in the Kaiba Dome, none of the passing audience members or pedestrians noticed the conspicuously dressed pair. As soon as Hayato noticed Bakura, the Dark Magic Power released by the Millennium Items automatically formed a Dark Barrier separating them from others.
Not only was their conversation unnoticed by others, but this Dark Barrier was actually another application of the Dark Game, just like the one Pegasus used to seal Hayato and Yugi at the end of Duelist Kingdom. The deal reached by Hayato and Bakura within this domain would, to some extent, also be subject to the restraint of the Dark Game.
Therefore, Bakura wasn't worried at all that Hayato would break his promise. Rather, he was quite eager to see Hayato break his promise and be absorbed by the Dark Game. That way, he would have avenged being taken down back then.
Putting his hood back on, and having reached a deal witnessed by the Dark Game, Bakura wasn't worried at all about Hayato stabbing him in the back. He walked back into the Kaiba Dome venue a step ahead of Hayato, while Hayato watched Bakura's figure disappear around the Corner of the Passage before reaching into his pocket,
and hanging up the phone that had been on hold.
I, Hayato Kobayashi, keep my word. I've decided not to actively inform Kaiba Seto.
What?! That scoundrel Kaiba actually eavesdropped on me! How despicable!
## Chapter 432: Completely Fired Up
After all, Hayato wasn't some minor character in a horror movie who would get called out alone by a random unknown phone call and then be single-killed after triggering the "isolated and helpless" flag. The moment he left the Spectator Area, he called Kaiba and learned that Kaiba hadn't sent him any email at all.
Kaiba said he hadn't sent him an email, yet the first email in his inbox clearly showed Kaiba's name. Either Kaiba had split personalities, or someone was playing tricks.
The result was that, using the hung-up phone, Hayato completely broadcast his conversation with Bakura to Kaiba. The Dark Barrier created by the Millennium Items was merely a Domain to cover things up, not a spatial transfer. It was effective for preventing others from observing the people inside, but it had no effect on phone signals.
This way, Kaiba knew "someone is targeting KaibaCorp" before the agreement was reached, so Hayato didn't violate the agreement.
However, this was all Hayato could do. No matter how much Kaiba understood from their conversation, Hayato couldn't guide or hint at anything more; Kaiba had to figure it out himself and prepare for any unexpected events that might occur at any time.
Hayato had no intention of violating the deal protected by the Dark Game Rules, at least not until he completely understood what the Schroeder Corporation and Doma were planning.
Before Bakura asked him out today, he had been investigating relevant information. But even knowing beforehand that the Schroeder Corporation would cause trouble, their actions were too covert, and Hayato hadn't been able to find any effective clues.
He could certainly refuse Bakura's proposed deal, but in that case, they would completely retreat into the shadows, making it even more impossible for Hayato to find their method of attack.
In that case, it was better to choose to join. While he couldn't stop the opponent, he could at least know their method of attack and prepare in advance.
Moreover, just now, when Bakura was trying to get closer to him by teaching him the "three-seven split," Hayato had secretly dropped a miniature listening device he got from Keipei onto Bakura's cloak, which looked like it hadn't been changed in a long time. With a bit of luck, this might allow Kaiba to gather more information about Bakura, Doma, and Schroeder's interactions.
Similarly, this wasn't a leak by Hayato, but by Bakura himself, so it also didn't violate the terms of the deal.
As for why Keipei would have a miniature listening device that only commercial spies would use? Let's just ignore that for now.
Returning to the Kaiba Dome Venue, since some time had passed since Hayato left, Joey Wheeler and Northwood Reiko had already left the Field, and two other Duelists had taken their place. Hayato could only confirm that he had seen them in previous Matches, but he had no impression of who they were individually.
However, Hayato didn't have much time to take an interest in them, as the Duel was decided within just a few Turns.
One of the Duelists used an Aggro Deck. However, his opponent focused on a Trap-Heavy Deck, with various Attack Declaration Traps appearing one after another. Although neither side's Life Points were damaged, the situation on the Field felt like walking a tightrope.
Either the Aggro Deck would break through the Trap-Heavy Deck's Defense and create a Vulnerability, or the Trap-Heavy Deck would Wear Down the advantage created by the Aggro Deck.
After his Offensive was intercepted time and time again, the Aggro player chose to go all-in, Tributing all the Monsters he had Summoned previously to Summon a "Big Baby" with terrifying ATK – the Level 8☆ True King Beast, Gazelle.
This was a rather special Monster Card because although it was a Level 8 Monster, it couldn't be Tribute Summoned directly with two Monsters. Instead, it had to be Special Summoned by Tributing all Monsters on its controller's Field. At the same time, although True King Beast, Gazelle's ATK and DEF were both 0, it could absorb all the Power of the Tributed Monsters and combine it.
Furthermore, True King Beast, Gazelle had Piercing Damage capability. Theoretically, using it to Attack a Deck focused on Defense Strategy would be very advantageous, especially after the Aggro player Tributed all his previous Powerful Monsters, raising True King Beast, Gazelle's ATK to a staggering 6000 points.
But the problem was, the Trap-Heavy player on the other side seemed to have anticipated this. He immediately Activated a Set Card in his Spell/Trap Zone, a Ring of Destruction, which instantly turned the newly appeared True King Beast, Gazelle into a terrifying bomb.
This wasn't the Real Card Environment Hayato had experienced. In that era, the Effect of the Ring of Destruction Card had already been weakened to "During your opponent's Turn, you can Target 1 Face-Up Monster your opponent controls with ATK less than or equal to their Life Points. Destroy that Face-Up Monster, and you take Damage equal to its original ATK. Then, inflict Damage to your opponent equal to the Damage you took."
In other words, it could only destroy one of the opponent's Monsters with ATK less than or equal to their Life Points during the Opponent's Turn, and you would take Damage first before the opponent took Damage, making it confusingly weak and not very practical.
But the current Ring of Destruction was the version before the Numeron era, and its Effect was quite simple – "Destroy 1 Face-Up Monster on the Field. Both players take Damage equal to the destroyed monster's ATK."
There was no Turn restriction, no ATK restriction, and both players took Effect Damage simultaneously. It was practically a divine artifact in a Self-Destruction Field, especially when the chosen Monster was True King Beast, Gazelle with a massive 6000 ATK. Both players' Life Points would simultaneously drop to zero due to Ring of Destruction's Effect.
However, the Trap-Heavy player was also quite cunning. Chaining to Ring of Destruction, he immediately Activated a Mystical Wok, Tributing the Millennium Shield, a Monster with 3000 DEF that he had used as a Shield on his Field, to Recover 3000 Life Points, leaving him with 7000 Life Points, which was completely enough to withstand the Damage from Ring of Destruction.
With a loud "boom," True King Beast, Gazelle was detonated. The Trap-Heavy Duelist, whose Life Points had dropped to only 1000, looked at his opponent swallowed by Smoke and laughed wildly. But before he could laugh twice, a Gunshot was heard from within the Smoke, and he was instantly knocked down, his Life Points reduced to zero.
From within the Smoke, the Aggro Duelist's Life Points, which hadn't taken a single point of Damage, Manifested along with a Spell of Pain that he had Activated in his Spell/Trap Zone. Thanks to Spell of Pain's Effect, the Aggro Duelist completely returned the Effect Damage he should have taken, securing the Victory and presenting the Audience with a spectacular Duel.
Amidst the cheers of the Audience, Hayato returned to his seat but received strange looks from Marik and the others, which left Hayato puzzled.
He shouldn't have done anything, right?
"Which one is this?"
"The sixth, I think. Another guy who can easily Tribute Monsters."
"The influence on young people is immeasurable."
Listening to the complaints from Marik and Joey Wheeler, who had returned to their seats, Hayato completely understood what they meant. These guys were complaining about the strategy of Tributing Monsters that he had started.
"Yakamashi! Don't talk as if I'm the only one who likes using the Tribute Monster strategy! Yugi has Catapult Turtle too!"
Hayato wouldn't admit that he started this trend. And even if he did, what about it? Tributing one Monster as a cost in exchange for Victory was a huge gain, alright? It was completely worth it and perfectly reasonable; it was a Necessary Sacrifice!
My heart and actions are as clear as a mirror; all I do is just!
Then, Hayato noticed that among the group, only Yugi had disappeared again.
"As for Mutou Yuugi, although he said he was eager to Duel, it looks more like he wanted to escape from the so-called 'awkward situation.' Anyway, the next Duel is his turn," Marik said, meeting Hayato's gaze, and handed over the large bag of French Fries Hayato had left behind, not forgetting to shove a large handful into his own mouth.
The KC Cup Tournament lasted a long time, and different Audience members naturally had different preferences for different Dueling Styles. It was normal to feel bored when watching a Duel they weren't interested in.
KaibaCorp seized this opportunity and put effort into this area, specifically arranging staff to sell various Snacks.
These weren't just ordinary Snacks. After each snack was sold, a Stamp was given out. After collecting ten Stamps, you could exchange them for an exquisite Standee. Gaia The Fierce Knight, Dark Magician, Dark Magician Girl, Red-Eyes Black Dragon, and many other Signature Monsters of Legendary Duelists were made into Standees.
However, the Monster that appeared on the Standee was random, so collecting them all wasn't easy; you had to buy more snacks. Upon learning this, Hayato exclaimed that Kaiba had completely grasped the Idol Support scheme from Neon.
After a while, Hayato saw Yugi's figure appear on the Duel Field. However, the Aura around Yugi on the Duel Field this time was different from his usual self, and he had taken off his blue jacket and draped it over his shoulder like a Cloak, revealing the black short-sleeved shirt he was wearing underneath, a posture that prioritized style over warmth.
There was no need to guess; the one who came out now was definitely the Pharaoh. After all, he was the tough guy who could make Yugi run around wearing a solid metal chain around his neck.
Compared to Yugi Mutou's strategy, which was politely called Safety-Focused Strategy and bluntly called a Trap-Heavy Deck, the Pharaoh's Dueling Style had much higher Entertainment Value. After all, watching Monsters fall into various Traps of different sizes like idiots was less visually enjoyable than seeing them Annihilated by Spells.
However, the premise for Entertainment Value was that the opponent who appeared wasn't a legendary "Well-Matched Opponent," but at least someone with a similar skill level. If Yugi's opponent was someone whose Ace Monster didn't even have 2500 ATK, the Match would be quite boring.
Thinking this, Hayato looked up at the Big Screen displaying the name of Yugi's opponent.
"Jaden Yuki?"
Hayato blinked.
"Yuki Jaden? Judai Yuki!"
What's up? Mutou Yuugi VS Judai Yuki? This was truly a Dream Matchup, a Classic Rematch.
Amidst the cheers of the Audience, a Jellyfish appeared before the colorful Starfish—ahem, before Yugi—a young Judai walked onto the Duel Field.
"Wow, it's Mr. Yugi! This is awesome, truly awesome!" Seeing that the person standing before him was indeed Yugi, Judai seemed to finally confirm that he hadn't been hallucinating, his face full of excitement. "I never thought I'd get to Duel Mr. Yugi so early!"
Although he usually put on a cool Expression during Duels, the Pharaoh was actually a very gentle person, just like Yugi Mutou. Looking at the excited Judai, he smiled and said, "Hello, Judai. I am Mutou Yuugi."
"Hello, Mr. Yugi!" Judai replied seriously. "You can just call me Judai, Mr. Yugi. Mr. Hayato calls me that too."
"Just thinking about Dueling Mr. Yugi makes me so excited! This way, I'll have Dueled both Mr. Yugi and Mr. Hayato. It looks like I have the Potential to become a Legendary Duelist too."
Looking at Judai's excited Smile, the Pharaoh smiled and raised the Duel Disk on his arm. "I'm also looking forward to Dueling you, Judai. Hayato has also told me about you, saying you have deep Potential in Duel Monsters."
As he spoke, Yugi's gaze couldn't help but glance behind Judai. Although Hayato had applied a Seal, Yubel wouldn't affect Judai for a long time, but the Seal itself was very noticeable, especially to the Pharaoh, who was sensitive to Dark Power.
"Anyway, let's have an interesting Duel, Judai." The Expression on the Pharaoh's face became a little serious. He was gentle, but that didn't mean the Pharaoh would Go Easy just because Judai was a Child. He was always very serious about every Duel. "Although you're still a child, I will treat you as a professional Duelist."
"That's exactly what I was hoping for, Mr. Yugi." Judai smiled and nodded. The child-specific model Duel Disk he was Wearing unfolded as he inserted his Deck. "My Heroes, who Cooperate closely with me, are invincible!"
"Duel!" X2
[Yugi: 4000 LP]
[Judai: 4000 LP]
"Yosh! I'll take the First Turn, Yugi!" Judai's movements were quick. After Drawing a Card, an expectant Expression appeared on his face. "I'm completely fired up! Here I go!"
"I Summon one Monster in Face-Down Defense Position, and Set three Cards in my Spell/Trap Zone. I End Turn."
Yugi raised an eyebrow.
You call this "fired up"? You're burning in a fire pit, aren't you?!
This familiar feeling... it's the vibe of aibo and Hayato!
End of Chapter
Chapter 433: Clayman: Good Duel, Don't Duel Like That Next Time
[Judai: 4000 LP, Hand 2]
[Face-Down Defense Position Monster]
[Set Card] x3
Although he had seen this young man's Duel in Matches before, and also learned from Hayato that the Deck he used was the [E HERO] Deck which would only be released soon, Yugi truly couldn't guess what specific Monsters Judai would use.
However, the Monster wasn't the key point Yugi cared about. The key point was the three Set Cards in Judai's Spell/Trap Zone. Yugi, with his rich Dueling experience, knew that constantly Summoning Powerful Monsters wasn't necessarily useful; a single [Trap Hole] from the opponent could take the life of a powerful Monster that was difficult to Summon.
"My Turn, Draw." After deciding on the direction in his heart, Yugi drew a Card. The Card he drew was the Spell Card [Heavy Storm].
The saying goes, "A True Duelist can even create their own Draw." So, it was perfectly reasonable for Yugi to Draw [Heavy Storm] when he wanted to Draw a Card with the Effect to "Destroy Spell/Trap Cards".
"I Activate the Spell Card [Heavy Storm]! This Card's Effect is to Destroy all Spell/Trap Cards on the Field!" Inserting the Card he just drew into his Duel Disk, Yugi said with a smile, "This Card's biggest drawback is that it also Destroys the Cards on your own Field, but in this Situation, only your Cards, Judai, will be Destroyed."
The [Heavy Storm] Card appeared in Yugi's Spell/Trap Zone, and a powerful storm enveloped the entire Field, sparing neither friend nor foe. But just then, Judai pressed the button on his Duel Disk to Activate a Set Card:
"No way, Yugi-san! A Duelist should face difficulties head-on! Just thinking about breaking through my Traps to take a Shortcut is actually taking the long way around."
"Open my Set Card, the Trap Card [Solemn Darkness]! It can be Activated when the opponent Activates a Spell/Trap or Monster Effect that would Destroy Cards on the Field, and it Negates that Effect!"
The storm, filled with a Destructive Aura, was about to Destroy all three Cards in Judai's Spell/Trap Zone. However, from the [Solemn Darkness] that Judai opened, a black shadow flew out and darted into the center of the storm, Negating the Effect of [Heavy Storm].
Dark Yugi wasn't too surprised either. After all, Judai had already Set three Cards. Having Dueled with Hayato and Yugi Mutou frequently, he knew it would be strange if the Spell/Trap Zone could be cleared so easily.
Furthermore, trading one [Heavy Storm] for one [Solemn Darkness] wasn't a loss.
"After [Solemn Darkness]'s Effect Negates [Heavy Storm], I need to Send a DARK Attribute Monster with Level 3 or lower from my Deck to the Graveyard."
Saying this, Judai began to Search his Deck. He quickly selected the Monster Card he wanted to use and Sent it to the Graveyard Zone.
'A Monster Sent to the Graveyard as a substitute for Cards on the Field because of [Solemn Darkness]'s Effect?'
'No, if Hayato has guided Judai, even a negative Effect should be utilized. Perhaps the Card Sent to the Graveyard has an Effect that can be Activated.'
Yugi thought for a moment, then played another Card: "If that's the case, then it seems the only way is to test it with a Direct Attack."
"I Normal Summon [Jester Confit]. Then, because of [Jester Confit]'s Effect, as long as it exists on the Field in Face-Up Position, once per Turn, in addition to my Normal Summon, I can Tribute Summon one Spellcaster Type Monster in Face-Up Position."
[Jester Confit] [ATK 1300]
[Jester Confit], dressed as a clown, appeared on Yugi's Field with a grinning face. Then, due to its own Effect, it quickly vanished, turning into a shining orb of light. The orb transformed into a Magic Circle, and from within the Magic Circle, Dark Magician Girl made a dazzling appearance, one hand covering her pink mini-skirt to prevent it from showing too much, and the other holding her Wand.
[Dark Magician Girl] [ATK 2000]
Although she is a Level 6 Monster and requires one Tribute to Summon, theoretically she would at least have to wait until the second Turn to be Normal Summoned onto the Field. However, under the Effect of [Jester Confit], [Dark Magician Girl] was Summoned onto the Field by Yugi on the first Turn.
And as she appeared on the Field, for the first time in the Kaiba Dome Venue, incredibly enthusiastic cheers erupted—
"Dark Magician Girl is my wife!"
"She's unbelievably cute, absolutely amazing!"
"I'm ready, Brothers!"
"Speaking of which, it's a bit vulgar, but I..."
Such enthusiastic cheers were not only unexpected for Yugi on the Field, but also for Kaiba in the Backstage.
In reality, it was completely normal for [Dark Magician Girl] to have such high popularity among the Audience. You see, while more experienced Duelists might have different preferences (some are Dragon Type enthusiasts, some like female Monsters, some like robots, and some perverts even like [Giant Soldier of Stone]), if you consider Minor Characters, what attracts them the most about Duel Monsters?
Even the mighty Giant Dragon [Blue-Eyes White Dragon] might scare some timid people, and although he can swing his Wand to attack, the seemingly frail-looking [Dark Magician] might be disliked by some muscle-heads. Only female Monsters like [Dark Magician Girl] can gain universal approval.
Regardless of age or even gender, who could refuse a cute and Beautiful young lady, especially one who is a Magical Girl with a Magic Wand?
Not to mention anything else, Otogi's Monster Dice. Although more batches of Dice featuring Duel Monsters images were released later, even today, the one standing at the top of the popularity ranking is still [Dark Magician Girl], which was released in the very first batch.
Also, regarding the event Kaiba organized where you collect Stamps from buying snacks to exchange for Standees, Hayato has already discovered several instances of scalping and price gouging for the [Dark Magician Girl] Standee, which had the smallest quantity. Meanwhile, Kaiba's personal favorite—the [Blue-Eyes White Dragon] Standee—because it had the largest quantity, its price among scalpers was about to drop below the 50 Yen mark, and it was almost competing with a certain "King of Accidents"'s Tamashii.
After a brief moment of surprise, Yugi and Judai quickly adjusted and refocused their attention on the Duel.
"[Dark Magician Girl], huh? I've seen her many times on Videotapes, but this is the first time I've seen her appear right before my eyes. She's truly a Beautiful Duel Monster."
Listening to Judai's words, Yugi returned a gentle smile: "Don't just focus on admiring [Dark Magician Girl], Judai-kun. Her Teacher is the strongest Mage, [Dark Magician], and [Dark Magician Girl]'s Strength is also very high."
"The Effect of [Jester Confit], which was Tributed, Activates. When this Card is Sent from the Field to the Graveyard, I can add one Spellcaster Type Normal Monster from my Deck or Graveyard to my Hand. The Card I choose is my most loyal servant, [Dark Magician]."
Skillfully Searching for the [Dark Magician] Card from his Deck, as if he knew exactly where it was beforehand, Yugi added the Card to his Hand. Looking at the four Cards in his Hand, Yugi selected one of them: "Although I could Activate an Attack directly now, just to be safe, I'll use this Card first."
"Normal Spell Card, [Swords of Revealing Light]!"
As Yugi Activated the Card, three giant swords of light materialized out of thin air above Judai's Field. They plunged down fiercely, embedding themselves in Judai's Field. While Locking Judai's Field, the tremor caused by the impact also prevented the Face-Down Defense Position Monster on Judai's Field from staying in its original state, causing it to Flip.
[Elemental HERO Clayman] [Level 4 / Earth Attribute]
[Warrior Type / Normal]
[800 ATK / 2000 DEF]
"Huh? [Elemental HERO Clayman] got Flipped!" Judai's eyes widened as he looked at the three giant swords of light that appeared on his Field. "And it's still on the Field after being Activated?"
"[Swords of Revealing Light] is a Normal Spell Card, but after being Activated, it remains on the Field for three Turns. Also, as long as [Swords of Revealing Light] exists, the opponent's Monsters cannot Activate an Attack." Yugi saw that Judai didn't seem to recognize the [Swords of Revealing Light] Card, so he patiently explained the Card's Effect.
It wasn't the first time anyway. Yugi had explained Card Effects to Joey Wheeler and the others plenty of times before.
"Furthermore, as part of [Swords of Revealing Light]'s Effect resolution upon Activation, all Face-down Position Monsters on the opponent's Field are changed to Face-up Defense Position. However, this Effect only occurs upon Activation." Glancing at the [Elemental HERO Clayman] with 2000 DEF on Judai's Field, Yugi said casually, "It's a good thing I Activated this Card. Otherwise, [Dark Magician Girl] really wouldn't have been able to Break Through your Defense, Judai-kun."
[Dark Magician Girl] has an Effect where her ATK increases based on the number of [Dark Magician] and [Dark Sage] in the Graveyard. However, Yugi currently had none of those Cards in his Graveyard, so [Dark Magician Girl]'s current ATK was only her base 2000 Points.
While [Elemental HERO Clayman] only has 800 ATK, its DEF is an excellent 2000 Points. Ordinary Monsters really can't easily Break Through its Defense.
However, now that he knew the opponent's exact stats, Yugi only needed to increase [Dark Magician Girl]'s ATK.
"Activate the Equip Spell Card [Mystical Spellbook]! This Card can only be Equipped to [Dark Magician] and [Dark Magician Girl], and it increases their ATK by 700 Points."
Drawing another Card and inserting it into his Duel Disk, Yugi waved his Hand forward: "Now, enter my Battle Phase! Go, [Dark Magician Girl]! Attack [Elemental HERO Clayman]!"
"[Dark Burning Attack]!"
Following Yugi's command, [Dark Magician Girl] playfully winked at the camera filming the Field, showing off her cuteness. While reaping countless cheers from the Audience, the short Wand in her Hand spun twice before being gripped tightly. A transparent purple Magic Orb instantly gathered and formed at the tip of the Wand.
As for the [Mystical Spellbook]? It was tucked into [Dark Magician Girl]'s waist.
As is well-known, while Equip Cards can affect a Monster's ATK and DEF, there's never been a mandatory rule that a Monster Equipped with an Equip Card must use the Equip Card to Battle.
Just like how [Red-Eyes Black Dragon] and [Red-Eyes Dark Dragon] still Attack by breathing fire from their mouths even after being Equipped with [Claw of Hermos], it's perfectly reasonable for [Dark Magician Girl] to treat [Mystical Spellbook] as an ornament after Equipping it.
*Hehe, I've grown a lot, you know. Do you think I'd open that book and look at what's inside in front of everyone? If I'm going to look, I'll wait until no one's around!*
[Dark Magician Girl] thought to herself.
The purple Magic Orb was fired from the tip of the Wand. In just an instant, it passed through the three giant swords of light from [Swords of Revealing Light] and was about to hit [Elemental HERO Clayman] on Judai's Field.
[Dark Magician Girl] ([Mystical Spellbook]) [ATK 2000 → 2700]
[Elemental HERO Clayman] [DEF 2000]
Enjoying the enthusiastic cheers from the Audience, [Dark Magician Girl] was full of confidence about whether her Attack could Break Through [Elemental HERO Clayman].
*There's no suspense here, right? 2700 ATK attacking 2000 DEF, how can I lose? I'm a professional Mage, you know.*
*Hehe, although I always say Master is my Ace Monster, it's still me, [Dark Magician Girl], who can take the top spot! A popular character like me can really do whatever she wants! This feeling is just too wonderful, so wonderful I want to sing a song.*
*Hehe, the Effect of [Mystical Spellbook] is just perfect for me! Saikou ni High tte yatsu da!*
"Boom!!"
Accompanied by [Dark Magician Girl]'s "smug" smile, the Attack she launched seemed to have successfully Broken Through [Elemental HERO Clayman], causing an Explosion.
However, before [Dark Magician Girl] could even laugh out loud, a tall, rounded figure suddenly shot out from the Smoke of the Explosion, appearing behind [Dark Magician Girl] and tightly wrapping its thick arms around her!
"Nani?!"
Compared to [Dark Magician Girl], Yugi could see the full picture more clearly. The one who appeared behind [Dark Magician Girl] was clearly [Elemental HERO Clayman], who had just been "Destroyed"!?
"Yugi-san, when did you get the illusion that my [Elemental HERO Clayman] was Battle Destroyed?" The one who answered Yugi and [Dark Magician Girl]'s confusion was a confident-looking Judai. "It was a Set Card! In that instant, I opened my Set Card."
"The Trap Card [Clay Charge]! It's a Card that can only be used when [Elemental HERO Clayman] is chosen as an Attack Target." Judai looked at [Elemental HERO Clayman], whose clay body was gradually emitting white light after embracing [Dark Magician Girl], and said with a smile, "It Destroys the Attacking Monster and [Elemental HERO Clayman], and inflicts 800 Points of Damage to the opponent Duelist."
"This is a necessary sacrifice! Self-Destruct, [Elemental HERO Clayman]!"
"Boom!"
# Chapter 434: The JO-ified Dark Magician
Because he was made of clay, in a sense, he perfectly recreated a certain artist's Self-Destruct. With Judai's completely guilt-free smile, E•HERO Clayman dragged the reluctant Dark Magician Girl along and Self-Destructed.
"Kono Dark Magician Girl da! Kono Dark Magician Girl da!"
"Boom!"
Although Dark Magician Girl was extremely unwilling, she took the full brunt of the zero-distance Self-Destruct Damage and was instantly defeated and Sent to the Graveyard.
However, what surprised Judai was that even though Clay Charge had the Effect of "inflicting 800 Effect Damage to the Opponent," Yugi's Life Points didn't decrease; instead, they increased.
[Yugi: 4000 → 3200 → 4200 LP]
"When Magic Spellbook is Sent to the Graveyard from the Field, I can recover 1000 Life Points," Yugi explained Judai's confusion, revealing a smile full of interest. "That's a remarkable Strategy, Judai-kun. You completely blocked my Attack and even made such a Beautiful Counterattack. You are an excellent Duelist."
After that series of plays, Yugi's Offensive not only failed to inflict any Damage on Judai, but his own Hand was depleted, leaving him with only two Cards, one of which was Dark Magician added to his Hand by the effect of Magician of Black Chaos.
On Judai's Field, one of the three Cards he Set last Turn remained untested, and there was a certain Probability that Cards in his Graveyard could Activate their Effects. Although the Monsters on both players' Front Rows had been Cleared, because of Swords of Revealing Light, Yugi wasn't worried about Judai Summoning a Monster and making a Direct Attack on him next Turn when his Field was empty.
"I Set one Card from my Hand in my Spell/Trap Zone, then I End my Turn." The Bricked Hand Dark Magician remained in Yugi's Hand. After Setting the Card, he looked at Judai with interest, anticipating his next move.
Although Yugi Mutou and Dark Yugi were "competitive" in Duel Monsters, if his Opponent was a Kid like Judai, who wasn't even ten years old, even he felt a bit awkward about immediately getting a Divine Draw like Graceful Charity and launching another explosive Offensive. Using his full Power against a Child would be a bit embarrassing.
[Yugi: 4200 LP, Hand 1]
[Swords of Revealing Light] [Set Card]
"It's my Turn again, huh? Alright, Draw a Card!" After Drawing a Card from his Deck, Judai pointed to his Graveyard. "During my Standby Phase, a Monster in my Graveyard can Activate its Effect."
"Oh? Is it the Monster Sent to the Graveyard by Scapegoat of Darkness earlier?" Yugi had expected this.
Judai nodded and took a Card from the Graveyard Zone on his Duel Disk. "As expected of Mr. Yugi, you already knew I would use Card Effects to set up favorable Cards."
"During my Standby Phase, if Immortal Bushi exists in my Graveyard and I control no Monsters, I can Special Summon Immortal Bushi from my Graveyard. This Effect can only be Activated if there are no non-Warrior Type Monsters in my Graveyard."
A mound of earth rose on Judai's Field. A rotten arm, its bones exposed and draped in tattered Armor, broke through the soil and crawled out from Underground. The dirty Warrior, who had died and been Revived, held two rusty katanas and stood before Judai.
He should have been a terrifying "Undead creature," but perhaps because of the sacred and resolute expression on Immortal Bushi's face, Yugi instead felt that Immortal Bushi was like a Hero who would uphold Conviction and Justice even if he returned to the present world from the Underworld.
[Immortal Bushi] [Level 3 / DARK]
[Warrior Type / Effect]
[1200 / 600]
"Immortal Bushi is a Monster that can get back up and keep fighting no matter how many times he Falls Down, as long as he maintains that Conviction," Judai said, pausing for a moment. "However, letting a Warrior fight alone isn't my Style."
"Activate Spell Card O - Oversoul! This Card's Effect is to Special Summon one E HERO Normal Monster from my Graveyard."
"Revive, E•HERO Clayman!"
As Judai inserted the Card into the Spell & Trap Zone, a giant letter "O" appeared on his Field, surrounded by blue-purple Flames like a Soul. Clayman, who had just left the Field, returned to Judai's Field, forced to work overtime, surrounded by the Flames.
[E•HERO Clayman] [ATK 800]
[Immortal Bushi] [ATK 1200]
"They're both in Attack Position, but that's too bad, Judai." Yugi looked at Immortal Bushi and Clayman, who were Full of Presence, smiled, and shook his head, pointing to his Spell/Trap Zone.
"Although I only have one Set Card on my Field and not even a single Monster besides that, don't forget that because of Swords of Revealing Light's Effect, you cannot Attack this Turn."
"And Swords of Revealing Light's Effect only affects you. If you leave two Monsters in Attack Position on the Field, you'll have to face my Monsters' Attacks next Turn."
Hearing Yugi's words, Judai smiled confidently. "Mr. Yugi, don't underestimate my Monsters! Don't forget, I haven't performed a Normal Summon this Turn yet."
"Immortal Bushi has a Restriction: it cannot be used as Tribute for a Tribute Summon of a Monster other than a Warrior Type Monster. However, the Monster I'm Summoning is Warrior Type, so there's no problem."
"I Tribute E•HERO Clayman and Immortal Bushi! Even discarded steel, when covered in earth and forged, can turn rust into gold! Here, let the shining light of bravery bloom!"
"Tribute Summon, E•HERO Bladedge!"
Shining gold—that was Yugi's sole Evaluation of the Monster that appeared at this moment.
Clad in golden Armor from head to toe, with Sharp Blades attached to the armguards that could be used as mirrors, a brand new High-Level E HERO, who had never appeared in Judai's previous Duels, appeared before Yugi's Eyes.
[E•HERO Bladedge] [Level 7 / EARTH]
[Warrior Type / Effect]
[2600 / 1800]
"Hehe, Bladedge is the highest-Level E HERO in this Deck of mine," Judai said proudly, putting his hands on his hips and looking at the Bladedge on his Field with satisfaction. He seemed happy just seeing his Heroes make a shining entrance. "Then I Set one Card and End my Turn."
"With him standing before me, even if Mr. Yugi's Dark Magician appears, he won't be able to Break Through my Defense. What's more, you haven't even Summoned Dark Magician yet."
"Hmhm, 'Sore wa dou kana?'"
"Eh?"
Judai had no idea what he had just triggered. In a Duel against Yugi, you must never say anything with certainty. Once Yugi says "'Sore wa dou kana?'", it means certain defeat or heavy Damage.
As expected, Yugi activated his only Set Card in his Spell/Trap Zone. "Chain Judai's End Turn Declaration, I activate my Set Card, Trap Card Magician Navigation!"
As if corresponding to the "O" that had just dissipated on Judai's Field, a white Ring appeared on Yugi's Field, but the center of the Ring was quickly occupied by a patch of black. As if using the Ring Magic Circle as a Connection, the black area opened a Passage to a Different Dimension, and a hand reached out from the blackness!
Perhaps out of some Dark humor, Yugi's Dark Magician emerged halfway from the Dark Hole, striking an incredibly cool pose. Somehow, several "ゴゴゴゴゴ" onomatopoeia appeared in the Air, and the lines on Dark Magician's face also became somehow more three-dimensional.
If you added a zipper to the black hole, it would be a perfect recreation.
Yugi, standing behind him, was completely unaware of the strange stance his Dark Magician had recently learned from Hayato. He calmly stated, "Magician Navigation's Effect is that I can Special Summon one Dark Magician from my Hand, and then I can Special Summon one Level 7 or lower Spellcaster-Type, DARK Attribute Monster from my Deck."
"I Special Summon Magician's Robe in Attack Position from my Deck."
Beside the JO-ified Dark Magician, a Mage Robe, identical to the one Dark Magician wore but not worn by anyone, appeared and moved on its own, floating beside him as if it were Dark Magician's "Phantom."
[Dark Magician] [ATK 2500]
[Magician's Robe] [Level 2 / DARK]
[Spellcaster Type / Effect]
[700 / 2000]
"Eh~ You Special Summoned Monsters at the very end of my Turn? That's sneaky, Mr. Yugi."
Yugi looked at Judai, who was pouting, and smiled. "But because of Swords of Revealing Light's Effect, even if I had Summoned the Monsters at the beginning, you couldn't Attack me anyway, Judai-kun."
"Eh? That's true."
Judai was momentarily stunned, then realized that Yugi was indeed correct. He really couldn't Attack Yugi, whether Yugi Summoned earlier or later. And the reason Yugi Summoned later was simply to be wary of Judai's Set Cards.
Thinking this, Judai felt a bit relieved and said with his hands on his hips, "Even if Mr. Yugi, you Summoned Dark Magician, it doesn't matter, because Dark Magician's ATK is only 2500 Points. Comparing ATK, my E•HERO Bladedge is still higher."
[Judai: 4000 LP, Hand 0]
[E•HERO Bladedge] [ATK 2600]
[Set Card] X2
"That's not necessarily true, Judai," Yugi said with a smile, Drawing a Card. "My Turn, Draw a Card!"
Looking at the Card he Drew, as expected, it was the Card Yugi needed right now, one that could increase his Monster's ATK. "ATK isn't something that stays the same. Without Battle, no one knows the Ending."
"Here I come, Judai! I Attack your E•HERO Bladedge with Dark Magician!"
Dark Magician, with 2500 ATK, without any Cards Equipped, Attacking E•HERO Bladedge, who had 2600 ATK and was not weakened in any way, looked like a suicidal Attack no matter how you looked at it.
However, upon hearing Yugi's command, Dark Magician didn't hesitate at all. He extended his hand and made his Wand appear, charging directly towards the E•HERO Bladedge on Judai's Field, shouting a strange cry: "Ari!"
"He's Attacking? Muda da muda da! E•HERO Bladedge's Attack is higher than your Dark Magician's! Although I can't initiate an Attack because of Swords of Revealing Light's Effect, Counterattacking because of your Dark Magician's Attack isn't subject to that Restriction!"
"Oh right, at a time like this, according to Mr. Hayato, I have to give the Attack an Attack Name. In that case..."
"Attack back, Bladedge! Light Flow Style: Brilliant Color Blade!"
Although Bladedge really wanted to Rant to Judai that his Attack Name was clearly "Power Blade Attack" and not some strange "Brilliant Color Blade," considering that the name actually sounded pretty good, E•HERO Bladedge also followed Judai's instructions, extending the Sharp Blades on his armguards, preparing to meet Dark Magician's Attack.
Seeing that Judai had no intention of activating his Set Cards, Yugi's mouth curved into a smile. "You fell for it, Judai! This is my Attack route!"
"Activate Quick-Play Spell Card Dark Magic Attack!"
"Based on the combined number of Dark Magician and Dark Magician Girl on both Fields and in the Graveyards, this Card can exert different levels of Effect!"
"If the combined number is one or more, I can target one Spellcaster-Type Monster on the Field—which is my Dark Magician—and increase his ATK by 1000 Points!"
"Nani!?" Judai's Eyes widened as he looked at Dark Magician, who was swinging his Wand and charging towards his Field like a martial monk. Under the Effect of Dark Magic Attack, Dark Magician's slender arms visibly became thicker and stronger!
"2500 + 1000... equals 3500?!"
Judai, startled, quickly pressed his Set Card. "In that case, I Activate my Set Card!"
But as Judai's Spell/Trap Card lifted slightly, a second wave of Mystical Power appeared on the Dark Magic Attack Card. The Phantom of Dark Magician Girl, who had been taken out by E•HERO Clayman's Self-Destruct earlier, Manifested, using Magic Power to firmly hold down the Card in Judai's Spell/Trap Zone, preventing it from being Activated no matter what!?
"Although I only have one Dark Magician on my Field, don't forget about Dark Magician Girl who was Destroyed in the previous Battle," Yugi said with a smile. "When the combined number is two or more, this Turn, your Opponent cannot Chain Spell/Trap/Monster Effects to the Activation of my Spell/Trap Effects, and my Spell and Trap Cards cannot be Destroyed by your Opponent!"
[Dark Magician] [ATK 2500 → 3500]
"Attack and Destroy Bladedge!"
"Dark Magic Attack!"
"Boom!!"
"Whoa!"
[Judai: 4000 → 3100 LP]
(End of Chapter)
Chapter 435: In Head-to-Head Attacks, the Left Side Always Loses
He used an external force to increase his ATK during the battle in a very unsportsmanlike manner, and at the same time, he restricted Judai from using Set Cards. The Purity of Dark Magician has greatly decreased.
However, it was also a fact that he defeated the E•HERO Blade Edge that Judai had painstakingly Summoned last turn.
[Judai: 4000→3100 LP]
"Ugh, that hurt," Judai rubbed his chest and exclaimed, "Even though it was only 900 Battle Damage, it felt more painful than being hit by a charging rhinoceros."
"Or is this the power of the Duelist Spirit of a Legendary Duelist?"
Yugi watched Dark Magician return to his field and heard Judai's exclamation. He smiled and said, "How about it, can you still continue, Judai-kun?"
"Yeah, I'm far from done. I won't give up the Duel that easily," Judai said with a smile. "Besides, heroes aren't defeated by one or two losses."
"Although because of the effect of Dark Magician Enhance, I can't chain to your Spell/Trap Card activations, Mr. Yugi, it's fine if 'my monster is destroyed'."
As he spoke, a Set Card in Judai's Spell/Trap Zone, which had been firmly held down by the power of Dark Magician Girl, broke free from the magical power and released a phantom soul. It was the E•HERO Blade Edge that had just been destroyed. After the released soul of Blade Edge ascended into the sky, it transformed into a giant 'H', looking as if it were projected into the sky by a light.
"The effect of Hero Signal is, when a monster on my field is Battle Destroyed and Sent to the Graveyard, I can Special Summon one Level 4 or lower E•HERO monster from my Hand or Deck," Judai said, searching a card from his Deck and placed it on his Duel Disk. "I Special Summon E•HERO Avian from my Deck!"
A black dot appeared in the center of the white letter 'H'. Accompanied by the whistling wind, the black dot gradually enlarged and landed on Judai's field. It turned out to be another E•HERO monster. Covered in green feathers all over its body, with claws on its hands and feet, and large wings on its back, this was the Hero of the Sky—E•HERO Avian.
[E•HERO Avian] [3☆/WIND]
[Warrior Type/Normal]
[1000/1000]
It had no special ability, and its ATK/DEF were equally mediocre, without any advantages. But even so, E•HERO Avian standing before Judai formed a sufficient defense line, blocking Yugi's Magician's Robe, which hadn't attacked yet.
[E•HERO Avian] [ATK 1000]
[Magician's Robe] [ATK 800]
Yugi felt a little regret, because if it weren't for Judai's Hero Signal, E•HERO Avian wouldn't have appeared. Next, Judai would have taken a direct attack, and then he could reduce his Life Points to 2300, expanding his advantage.
Although he couldn't destroy E•HERO Avian, Yugi wasn't too bothered. After all, the effect of Swords of Revealing Light he activated had only been used for one turn. Judai still needed to wait two turns before he could attack him, so it didn't matter even if Magician's Robe was currently in Attack Position.
"In that case, I end my turn."
[Yugi: 4200 LP, Hand 0]
[Dark Magician] [ATK 2500]
[Magician's Robe] [ATK 800]
[Swords of Revealing Light]
"My turn, draw!" Judai drew a card from his Deck, a smile appearing on his face. "Oh, I drew a good card."
"Although E•HERO Avian is a Normal Monster, Mr. Hayato said that there are no useless cards in the world, and every card has its use." Judai said, showing the card in his hand. "And precisely because E•HERO Avian is a Normal Monster, he can do things other monsters can't!"
Hearing this, E•HERO Avian nodded repeatedly.
What's this? Judai has good taste, huh? Seems like he drew some very powerful card? Heh heh, then it's finally my time to shine!
"Activate the Spell Card, Price of Horse Bone!"
Huh?!
E•HERO Avian's eyes widened as he looked at the Spell Card that appeared behind him.
This is a bit different from what I thought. Shouldn't I be equipped with some invincible Equip Card and then counterattack Dark Magician?!
"The effect of Price of Horse Bone, I remember it's..." Yugi recalled for a moment, then suddenly fell silent.
The effect of Price of Horse Bone is to Send a monster on your field, other than an Effect Monster, to the Graveyard, and then draw two cards. He could clearly use Pot of Greed to draw two cards directly, but instead chose to tribute his own monster. As expected, it's Hayato's style.
What exactly have you been teaching this child, Hayato!
Amidst E•HERO Avian's unwillingness and Yugi's inner thoughts, Judai drew two cards, and at the same time, sent the E•HERO Avian on his field to the Graveyard.
"Although it seems like I sent the only E•HERO Avian on my field to the Graveyard, Mr. Yugi, a hero's temporary departure is just preparation for the appearance of the next hero." Judai said, playing a card from his hand. "Activate the Spell Card, Unexpected Dai!"
"This card can only be activated when there are no monsters on my field. Special Summon one Level 4 or lower Normal Monster from my Deck. Here we go! E•HERO Sparkman!"
Following Clayman and Blade Edge of the EARTH Attribute, and E•HERO Avian of the WIND Attribute, the monster that appeared on Judai's field was a sci-fi style hero wrapped in lightning all over its body.
Although, it was still a Normal Monster.
[E•HERO Sparkman] [4☆/LIGHT]
[Warrior Type/Normal]
[1600/1400]
In Judai's crippled E HERO Deck, E•HERO Sparkman, one of the "Elemental Four Wastes", was also a Normal Monster, but at least its ATK was 1600, which was somewhat acceptable.
The problem was, he was now facing Dark Magician with 2500 ATK. Although there was a Magician's Robe with only 800 ATK next to him that he could bully, due to Swords of Revealing Light, Judai could only passively take attacks right now.
"Set a card, I end my turn." Since he had no immediate plan, Judai could only hastily end his turn. However, a confident smile always hung on the corner of Judai's mouth.
[Judai: 3100 LP, Hand 0]
[E•HERO Sparkman] [ATK 1600]
[Set Card] X2
'Does he have a card that can turn the tide?'
Yugi maintained his usual vigilance, his finger resting on his Deck. Last turn, Judai's attempt to chain a Set Card to Dark Magician's attack was interrupted by the effect of Dark Magician Enhance, but that Set Card still existed and remained a threat.
"My turn, draw."
Glancing at the card he drew, Yugi wasn't in a hurry to use it. He simply waved his hand and gave the order: "Proceed directly to my Battle Phase, I use Dark Magician to attack E•HERO Sparkman!"
Although Yugi's Deck wasn't without cards that could destroy the Spell/Trap Zone, such as Dark Magic Attack which had the same effect as Harpie's Feather Duster to destroy all of the opponent's Spell/Trap Cards, using Dark Magic Attack just for two cards was a bit wasted.
It was better to attack directly with a monster like this and probe what kind of card it was.
Receiving Yugi's instruction, Dark Magician twirled the staff in his hand. A black-purple magic orb formed at the end of the emerald staff, but he didn't fire it directly. Instead, he clenched it in his hand like a "Rasengan" and rushed towards E•HERO Sparkman.
Sparkman was also quite cooperative. With a flick of his arm, the lightning on his body gathered towards his palm, forming a crackling ball of lightning that sounded like a thousand birds chirping together, and attacked towards Dark Magician.
"He's attacking, huh? Alright, then I activate this Set Card!" Judai watched Dark Magician attack and pressed the activate Set Card button. "It was interrupted by Mr. Yugi last turn, but this time there won't be any more accidents, right?"
"Activate the Quick-Play Spell Card, Heavy Slump!"
Dark Magician, holding the "Rasengan", and Sparkman, holding the "Chidori", were about to clash and recreate a famous scene, when suddenly, Dark Magician felt a heavy pressure appear on his body.
It wasn't a lack of strength from his muscles, but an actual, sudden increase in gravity!
"The effect of Heavy Slump is, until the end of the turn, decrease the ATK of one face-up monster by its own DEF value," Judai explained confidently, hands on his hips. "This card isn't much of a threat to monsters with high ATK but low DEF, but Dark Magician has both high ATK and DEF, so he will be significantly influenced!"
"After all, his DEF is as high as 2100! Because of Heavy Slump's effect, his ATK will be decreased to only 400!"
As he spoke, Judai looked at Yugi.
He wanted to see expressions like "surprise" or "confusion" on Yugi's face, but all he saw was "Relieved".
"I see. Last turn, if it weren't for the effect of Dark Magician Enhance which could negate my Spell/Trap Cards from being chained, my attacking Dark Magician, even if his ATK was increased by 1000, would still only have 1400 after Heavy Slump was activated, and still wouldn't be a match for E•HERO Blade Edge."
"And luckily it was Heavy Slump. I was originally thinking it would be bad if it was a card like Mirror Force," Yugi said, inserting the card he had just drawn from his hand into the Spell & Trap Zone. "But Judai-kun, you activated your card too early!"
"In chain to Heavy Slump's effect, I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card, Baptism of Light and Darkness, from my hand!"
"Gather the power of light and darkness, and release your shackled power!"
Sparkman, holding the lightning, came before Dark Magician, who was bound by gravity and couldn't move. He swung his palm forcefully, completely piercing Dark Magician's body.
However, a confused expression appeared on Sparkman's face.
The feeling was completely wrong; this wasn't the feeling of destroying a physical body!
Dark Magician's body, pierced by Sparkman, dispersed into starlight-like mystical power. This was clearly an empty shell!
Sparkman, surprised that his opponent had changed positions at some point, looked around, searching for where Dark Magician might have appeared. Then, he suddenly raised his head.
At some point, Dark Magician, who had "shed his shell" from the large Mage Robe of the past, had changed into a black leather outfit and was hovering in mid-air, looking down at Sparkman on the ground.
No, calling him Dark Magician at this moment was incorrect.
Using the pressure from Heavy Slump, Dark Magician completely released his mystical power, fully mastering the power of light and darkness, and appeared in a new stance. Like a Golden Experience using a Stand Arrow, Dark Magician at this moment was named—
"Magician of Black Chaos!"
[Magician of Black Chaos] [8☆/DARK]
[Spellcaster Type/Effect]
[2800/2600]
"He actually evolved Dark Magician into another monster," Judai said with a bitter face. "That's too unfair."
He had originally thought that if he used Heavy Slump's effect, he could take the opportunity to defeat Dark Magician, but he didn't expect Yugi to have such a move hidden. Because Dark Magician, who was selected as the target, turned into Magician of Black Chaos, Heavy Slump's effect had become ineffective and could no longer apply. Judai also lost the key card that could counterattack Dark Magician.
Yugi waved his palm: "Because of Magician of Black Chaos's effect, when he is Summoned or Special Summoned successfully, I can add one Spell Card from my Graveyard to my hand!"
"The card I choose is, Dark Magician Enhance!"
Magician of Black Chaos, hovering in the air, held his wand in one hand and raised his empty hand to snap his finger.
A moving magic circle generated in front of him, and as the magic circle moved, a card was created out of nothing. It was none other than Dark Magician Enhance, which Yugi had already used once last turn!
Because the battle with Dark Magician was interrupted, Sparkman retreated to Judai's field with a vigilant expression, standing in front of him, watching Magician of Black Chaos slowly land back on Yugi's field.
Looking at the Set Card in Judai's Spell/Trap Zone, Yugi frowned and thought.
'The combo of Dark Magician and Baptism of Light and Darkness helped me trick Judai into using his Heavy Slump. This means Judai only has one Set Card left.'
'If it were an Attack Declaration Trap, Judai could have activated it just now instead of using Heavy Slump, which is more suitable for attacks. This means the possibility of that card being an Attack Declaration Trap is not very high. Perhaps it's a card like Hero Signal from before.'
'However, Magician of Black Chaos has an effect that banishes destroyed monsters, which can negate many cards that can only be activated after a monster is sent to the Graveyard, such as Trap of the Fellow Traveler. Using Magician of Black Chaos can safely defeat Sparkman, and then Magician's Robe can make a direct attack.'
'But my intuition tells me that doing so is dangerous!'
Yugi's gaze gradually sharpened. Although Judai was just a child, the strength he had shown so far made Yugi feel that it was not excessive to be serious, because he was worth treating with such seriousness.
"Then next, I will activate the card I just recycled, Dark Magician Enhance." After inserting the card in his hand into the Spell & Trap Zone, Yugi pointed to his field. "Because the total quantity of Dark Magician and Dark Magician Girl in my Graveyard is two, so I can increase the ATK of one Spellcaster Type monster on the field, and you cannot chain to my Spell/Trap Cards to activate cards."
However, the monster pointed to by Yugi to increase ATK was not the impressive Magician of Black Chaos who had just appeared, but instead the Magician's Robe, which had been somewhat lacking in presence until now!?
"Although attacking with Magician of Black Chaos seems safer, and I don't have to worry about being counterattacked by cards like Rush Recklessly, to be safe, Judai, the monster I will increase ATK is Magician's Robe, and I will use Magician's Robe to attack your Sparkman!"
As Yugi's finger pointed to Magician's Robe, the phantoms of Dark Magician and Dark Magician Girl appeared behind him, injecting a powerful mystical power into Magician's Robe's body.
[Magician's Robe] [ATK 800→1800]
Judai looked surprised: "He actually increased the ATK of Magician's Robe?"
"Go, Magician's Robe, attack E•HERO Sparkman on Judai's field!" Yugi gave the attack instruction. "I cannot be sure what that Set Card in your Spell/Trap Zone is, so before that, I will not let Magician of Black Chaos get close."
The Magician's Robe, which moved automatically without anyone wearing it, floated up and charged towards E•HERO Sparkman on Judai's field. Although it seemed to be made of cloth, Magician's Robe made a sound of breaking through the air as it moved, full of power.
Magician's Robe's original ATK was only 800, but because of Dark Magician Enhance's effect, it was increased to 1800, giving it the ability to destroy Sparkman. And once Sparkman was destroyed, the next would be Magician of Black Chaos's direct attack with 2800 ATK.
Helplessly, Judai finally opened his Set Card: "I activate the Trap Card, Hero Barrier!"
Yugi couldn't help but look at the Hero Barrier Judai activated. Judging by the card's name, it seemed to be a card with some kind of protective barrier effect. However, what Yugi didn't expect was that although Judai activated the Set Card, there was no change on his field. Sparkman was hit hard by the fast-moving Magician's Robe, destroyed and sent to the Graveyard, and Judai's Life Points were deducted.
"Ugh!"
[Judai: 3100→2900 LP]
Watching Judai's Life Points deduct 200 Battle Damage, Yugi was a bit confused, but still gave the order:
"Although I don't know what kind of effect that Hero Barrier has, it seems like it doesn't have the ability to protect you?"
"I'm sorry, Judai-kun, I won't hold back in a duel. So next, direct attack the opponent Duelist, Magician of Black Chaos!"
"Destruction Chant!"
Following Yugi's order, Magician of Black Chaos raised the staff in his hand and aimed it at Judai, who only had Swords of Revealing Light and that useless Hero Barrier left on his field. A beam of dark mystical power shot out instantly from the tip of the staff, flying directly towards Judai, who had no protection.
If this attack hit, Judai's Life Points would instantly plummet to only 100!
Despite the extremely dangerous situation, Judai seemed to feel no pressure at all and instead started laughing: "Alright, this is what I've been waiting for!"
"Go, Hero Barrier!"
To Yugi's surprised gaze, the Hero Barrier he thought was useless suddenly spun around and automatically blocked between Magician of Black Chaos and Judai. The beam of attack just now was completely absorbed by it!
"Boom!"
Hero Barrier seemed to have absorbed energy beyond its limit, exploding with a roar, revealing Judai standing behind it completely unharmed.
With a proud smile, Judai scratched the back of his head, answering Yugi's question before he even asked: "The activation condition for Hero Barrier is that I must have an E•HERO monster on my field. Then, after activation, Hero Barrier can block one attack for me at any time during this turn. This effect can be activated even if I don't have an E•HERO on my field."
Yugi showed an expression of understanding: "I see, there's actually a Trap Card that can take effect with a delay like that."
"Taking 200 Battle Damage as stakes, you defended against my offensive this turn. That's a good strategy, Judai-kun." Yugi nodded in acknowledgement. "Then, my turn ends here."
"But Judai, constantly defending won't win you the duel."
[Yugi: 4200 LP, Hand 0]
[Magician of Black Chaos] [ATK 2800]
[Magician's Robe] [ATK 1800→800]
Looking at Magician of Black Chaos and Magician's Robe floating back to Yugi's field, Judai showed a fighting spirit-filled gaze: "Yeah, I think so too, Mr. Yugi."
"After taking so much damage, I think it's about time to show the courage of the heroes." Resting his finger on his Deck, Judai drew a card. "Then next is my offensive, Mr. Yugi!"
"I activate the effect of E•HERO Bubbleman from my hand. When he is the only card in my hand, I can Special Summon him to the field!"
The hero representing the WATER Attribute, E•HERO Bubbleman, revealed his figure amidst a dense burst of foam. With a helmet that exposed his chin, similar to a certain cup noodle character, and a white cape symbolizing a strong player, Bubbleman made a cool debut with pipes connected to his arms!
[E•HERO Bubbleman] [4☆/WATER]
[Warrior Type/Effect]
[800/1200]
"This time it's an E•HERO of the WATER Attribute? Like Swift Gaia the Fierce Knight, he has the ability to 'Special Summon directly when he is the only card in your hand'," Yugi said, frowning as he looked at the newly appeared Bubbleman. "But, even with this effect to compensate, as a Level 4 monster, Bubbleman's ATK/DEF are too low."
"And Judai, don't you have Immortal Bushi in your Graveyard? During your Standby Phase, you didn't have any monsters on your field, and the only monsters sent to your Graveyard so far are Warrior Type monsters. Did you forget to activate his effect?"
Yugi thought this was a mistake or poor play by Judai, but unexpectedly, Judai shook his head: "No, Mr. Yugi. Although Immortal Bushi can come to my field because of his effect, if I want to activate Bubbleman's effect, I must discard the idea of Special Summoning him."
Judai said, pointing his hand at Bubbleman on the field: "Bubbleman's second effect is, when he is Summoned, Flip Summoned, or Special Summoned successfully, I can draw two cards from my Deck, but this effect can only be activated when there are no other cards on my field."
Yugi seemed to understand: "I see. You thought drawing more cards was more useful than Summoning Immortal Bushi?"
Judai, who had drawn cards, looked at his hand and activated one of the cards: "Next is the effect of Pot of Greed, I can draw two more cards from my Deck, bringing my hand to three cards."
"Then I activate the Spell Card, Metamorphosis!" Judai played a Forbidden Card that had been banned for ages from his hand. "Because of this card's effect, I send Bubbleman to the Graveyard as a tribute, and then Special Summon a Fusion Monster with the same Level."
"Come out, E•HERO Neo Bubbleman!"
The muscular Bubbleman leaped into the air, his figure beginning to change under the influence of Metamorphosis. By the time he landed, he had transformed into the taller, slimmer, muscular Neo Bubbleman.
Although the card art of Metamorphosis was ugly, the design of E•HERO Neo Bubbleman summoned by this effect was quite cool. The originally somewhat rounded weapon and equipment gained many detailed carvings and a more technological feel, and the white cape on his back transformed into two pieces resembling fish fins.
[E•HERO Neo Bubbleman] [4☆/WATER]
[Warrior Type/Fusion Monster/Effect]
[800/1200]
In the Spectator Area, Hayato frowned as he watched Neo Bubbleman appear.
Because he clearly remembered that although he had drawn Neo Bubbleman in the E HERO Archetype, he only had one copy, and it wasn't included in the Deck he gave to Judai.
Moreover, the Neo Bubbleman he drew was the OCG version, which was a Special Summon Monster, not a Fusion Monster.
In other words, this guy Judai, despite only having the E HERO cards for a few months, has already started card printing!?
On the Duel Field, Yugi also became vigilant as he watched Neo Bubbleman appear.
Transformed by the effect of Metamorphosis, Neo Bubbleman's ATK/DEF were exactly the same as Bubbleman before the change, and neither its Level nor Attribute changed. If Judai wasn't just performing a magic trick, then these characteristics meant that Neo Bubbleman's effect would inevitably be different from the previous Bubbleman.
Judai also drew his second card: "As long as E•HERO Neo Bubbleman is in face-up position on the field, its name can be treated as E•HERO Bubbleman. Therefore, I can equip Bubbleman's exclusive Equip Spell Card—Bubble Blaster—to him."
A huge cannon barrel appeared out of thin air on Neo Bubbleman's shoulder, which he held up. Although it had a name like Bubble Blaster, which sounded like a child's toy, based on its appearance, Yugi thought calling it an RPG would be more appropriate.
"Bubble Blaster is an exclusive card that only Bubbleman can equip. Its effect is to increase the ATK of the equipped monster by 800. With this, Neo Bubbleman's ATK will increase to 1600!"
[E•HERO Neo Bubbleman] [ATK 800→1600]
Hearing Judai's words, Yugi reminded him: "Are you trying to attack my Magician's Robe? But Judai, don't forget the existence of Swords of Revealing Light. Its effect won't be lifted until the next turn. And as long as Swords of Revealing Light still exists, your monsters cannot declare an attack."
"In that case, why not just destroy it?" Judai flipped over the last card in his hand. "Quick-Play Spell Card, Mystical Space Typhoon! Select one Spell/Trap Card on the field and destroy it. I choose to destroy Swords of Revealing Light."
"With this, the obstacle is gone!"
As a whirlwind swept across Judai's field, the Spell Card Swords of Revealing Light, which had troubled him for two turns, finally disappeared from the field. Now Judai could finally start attacking.
"Alright, I'm finally free! It feels as refreshing as greeting the first morning of the new year wearing brand new underwear." Judai excitedly clenched his fist and commanded, "Then enter my Battle Phase, I will use Neo Bubbleman to attack!"
"The target of attack is—"
"Magician of Black Chaos!"
"Nani?" Yugi showed a surprised expression. "Using Neo Bubbleman with 1600 ATK to attack Magician of Black Chaos?"
Yugi, unable to understand Judai's intention, was very confused, but still gave the order: "Although I don't know what you're trying to do, in short, counterattack, Magician of Black Chaos!"
As Neo Bubbleman pulled the trigger of the rocket launcher-shaped Bubble Blaster on his shoulder, Magician of Black Chaos also unleashed a magic blast. The black beam of mystical power and the blue stream of foam collided in mid-air, but to Yugi's surprise, Magician of Black Chaos's attack was actually pushed back!?
"Boom!"
Watching the destroyed Magician of Black Chaos, Hayato commented: "If it were a kicking contest, maybe there'd be a chance, but in a head-to-head beam struggle, looking from here, Yugi is conveniently on the left."
Metamorphosis, a forbidden card, could Special Summon powerful suppression monsters like The Last Warrior from Another Planet and Naturia Beast without material, so it was naturally forbidden.
However, precisely because Metamorphosis was forbidden, the real card Neo Bubbleman became a card with unclear meaning, because it simply couldn't be used. The effect of his real card is that you must send Bubbleman on the field and Metamorphosis from your hand to the Graveyard to Special Summon him.
End of Chapter