Greetings, community! Dvdryms here with Chapter 76. Once again, my workload and a distinct lack of motivation have slowed me down and prevented this chapter from being released faster. I was half-joking about it a few chapters ago, but if things go on like this, it really is going to take until next year to finish this story. Hopefully, I'll be able to pick up the pace a bit. Now, in response to your questions.

—To EXECZ: Bluish Hell Armageddon is based on Zarc. I thought about basing it on Leo's Spirit Tech Force Monsters at first, but since all other variants were based on the final villain of each season, I didn't want to break the pattern.

—To Guest (1): Daichi is on the group with lighter sentences. He didn't commit that many crimes to warrant a harsher punishment.

—To Guest (2): The Duel in Chapter 15 was conducted under the standard rules of a Battle Royal, which treats everyone other than yourself as an opponent. That's why Serena's Monster wasn't affected by Darkbright Sunspot Dragon's effect.

—To Guest (3): Thanks for pointing out my mistake.

—To Lengo Storm King: Yukio's old buddies would be below the Lancers in terms of skill. As for their Decks, Daisuke plays a Fire Fist Deck, Oboro uses a Chemical Beast Deck, Hiyama uses an Evo Deck and Akihiro uses a Lightsworn Deck.

And now, on with the story!

Chapter 76 – Rite of Succession

"Alright, class, that's all for today if no-one has any questions. You'd best study what you've learned so far real well, because if I know the Principal, there's going to be a test next week."

The thirty or so students crammed in the small classroom groaned as one, with Yukio being unable to hide the small grin that appeared on his face and the small sigh that escaped from his mouth at the same time. As a student himself, he could sympathize with the dread of an upcoming test, but as an outside observer, he couldn't help but find their reactions a bit hilarious.

After the last student had bid farewell to Yukio and wished him luck for today, the silver-haired youth stretched his arms as he leaned back on the chair, letting out another sigh, this time due to exhaustion. As expected, for someone who wasn't used to teaching, this was a pretty big hurdle.

"Good work today as well, Yukio."

A bottle of water was placed in front of Yukio, who wasted no time downing it at one go. He then turned to the person who had offered it, Yuya, who had a wide smile on his face.

"Same to you." Yukio responded as he stood up. "Did you have any trouble with the live demonstration of Action Duels?"

"Not really, but I was nervous the whole time." Yuya admitted as the two walked through You Show Duel School's hall. "At times, it feels like facing Zarc was the less stressful ordeal."

"Tell me about it." Yukio said as the two of them entered a sparsely-decorated room with only a table, several chairs and a television in it, taking a seat. "I felt like my stomach was trying to crawl to my mouth. Thankfully, I haven't messed up yet."

"I'm a bit surprised to be honest." Yuya said. "When Shuzo-san asked you to teach us way back then, you seemed very reluctant to do it. Yet here you are now, helping us out yet again. Not that I'm not grateful, especially since we're swamped with all these new applicants, but I'm curious."

"Well…I suppose part of the reason is that I was feeling a little sentimental…" Yukio said as he took out Chaos Karma from his Deck case and gazed at it with a wistful look. "You could say that the news of Kouji-sensei's death affected me more than I thought."

"Right, there's that too." Yuya said with a solemn expression. "It's a shame that your old teacher passed away before you had a chance to see him again. What's worse is that he didn't even get to see you saving the world alongside us since he died a month before the championship if I'm not mistaken."

"That's what his relatives told me." Yukio said as he put Chaos Karma back to his Deck. "While he might have been proud of my deeds, I'm sure he would have had a few choice words for me regarding my participation in underground Duels as well. I just… I just wish I had the chance to thank him for everything he did for me. Without his guidance, I wouldn't have started down the path of Dueling and get to where I am now. At least, I'm relieved that he passed away peacefully and didn't suffer."

"Right." Yuya nodded. "So, what's the other reason?"

"Shuzo-san's approval." Yukio said with a sour look. "If I do him a few favors, maybe he'll stop hovering around me and Serena like a vengeful ghost. I've heard of helicopter parents, but he's taken it to a whole other level. I'm already inexperienced enough with relationships as it is. The last thing I need is an overprotective parent running interference all the time…"

"Eh, I wouldn't be too worried about that." Yuya made a dismissive gesture. "Shuzo-san is overprotective and overly passionate, but at the end of the day, he's reasonable. I'm sure he's already acknowledged your relationship with Serena. Just give him some time to get used to the idea, and he'll back off soon enough."

"Easy for you to say…" Yukio muttered. "I mean, I know I can't fault him since Yuzu was taken from him during the war, but this doesn't make it any less annoying."

"Just take my advice and have patience." Yuya said as he brought a bottle of water to his lips, taking a big sip before continuing. "Also, you had the right idea with helping out. Even if he doesn't want to admit it out loud, I know he appreciates your help."

"I'll take your word for it." Yukio said, and then a sly smile appeared on his face. "Since we're on that subject, what about your crush on Yuzu? Any progress on that front?"

The effect of Yukio's words was immediate as Yuya did a spit-take, spraying water all over the table.

"W-Where did that come from!?" Yuya stuttered out, his face beet red. "Yuzu and I… We're nothing more that friends…"

"A word of advice before you dig your grave even further." Yukio said. "Remember who you're talking to, and don't insult my intelligence. I'm well aware that you see Yuzu as more than just a friend. So, spit everything out before I'm forced to do something you will very much not like."

"Ugh, this is why I didn't want to say anything…" Yuya groaned as he sank on his chair. "Yes…it's true that I like her, and I have for some time now…but I haven't done anything yet…"

"I thought as much." Yukio said as he leaned back on his chair. "Look, I'm not exactly the best person to give advice, but I will say this; you'd better make your move soon before someone else snatches Yuzu from you."

"Snatch her?" Yuya frowned. "What are you talking about? Is someone eyeing Yuzu?"

"Wow. Just…just wow." Yukio shook his head in exasperation. "I'm actually kind of impressed. You have to be actively not paying attention not to notice that almost every guy at school has a huge crush on Yuzu."

"They do!?" Yuya's expression became alarmed. "How!? When!? Why!?"

"Seriously?" Yukio let out another sigh. "It's not advanced mathematics, Yuya. Our friend is objectively cute, intelligent, famous, a talented Duelist and, most importantly, single as of yet. Why wouldn't almost every guy at school be infatuated with her? That's why you've got to step up your game before Yuzu gets tired of waiting and turns her attention to the numerous other options."

"Just great…" Yuya buried his face in his hands. "As if I wasn't stressed out enough with the Maiami Championship starting today…"

"On hindsight, maybe this wasn't the best time to bring this up." Yukio admitted. "My bad~."

"Why you…" Yuya growled. "No skin off your nose, eh?"

"That's right." Yukio smirked. "Consider this payback for all the times you and the gang were pestering me about my relationship with Serena."

Before Yuya had the chance to respond, the door opened, with Yuzu, Gongenzaka, Sawatari, Serena and Sora entering the room. Upon catching sight of Yuzu, Yuya blushed, turning his head away. Yukio could barely contain his grin at Yuya's sudden bashful attitude.

"Phew, I'm exhausted." Serena announced as she sat down next to Yukio, leaning her head on his shoulder as the silver-haired youth put his arm around her. "I think Academia's combat training was easier than that."

"Ditto." Sora said as he munched a snack bar. "If Yoko-san hadn't promised to make all kinds of delicacies for me, I'd have bolted after the first day. Your father should seriously consider hiring some professionals for this kind of thing, Yuzu."

"If only it were that easy…" Yuzu sighed. "We've been in the red for so long that we've barely had the money to keep this place running. Renovations and adding more staff will have to wait until we actually start making some money. Until then, I'm afraid I'll have to impose on you for a bit more."

"Think nothing of it, Yuzu." Gongenzaka said while crossing his arms. "Helping one's friends is the natural thing to do. I, the man Gongenzaka, believe I speak for everyone when I say we will be your support for as long as it takes."

"More importantly, today's the day!" Sawatari said in an excited manner. "The Maiami Championship will finally resume, and I will get the chance to show off my polished skills to everyone!"

"Someone's enthusiastic." Yukio remarked. "However, you do know that you might not get chosen, right? Reiji told me that Serena and I were in, but didn't mention who else was chosen. That should be revealed today."

"Even so, I'm certain I've been chosen." Sawatari said with a confident look. "Yuya, Yukio, I'll use this opportunity to settle the score with you guys once and for all."

"I'm looking forward to it." Yuya said with a smile. "I can't wait to see how much your skills have improved, Sawatari."

At that moment, everyone's Duel Disks rang, prompting them to check them out.

"All members of the Lancers, please convene at the Maiami Stadium as soon as possible…?" Yuzu read the message with a confused look on his face. "Isn't this a bit too soon? I thought the opening ceremony would take place later today…"

"Maybe they have something else planned? Or something unexpected happened?" Yuya guessed. "Either way, it seems the championship will be starting soon. I hope all of you are prepared. I can't give the audience a grand show unless I defeat you at your best."

"That's my line." Yukio said with a grin as he stood up. "All of you had better give everything you've got, because I don't feel like losing today."

"Sorry, everyone, but this is Sawatari Shingo's time to shine." Sawatari declared. "Today, I'm the super star of this show."

"Interesting." Gongenzaka said. "I, the man Gongenzaka, swear that my polished Steadfast Dueling will not yield that easily to any of you."

"You're not the only one who has improved, big guy." Serena said. "I've been sharpening my claws as well, and I'm itching to try them out on someone."

"Oh, I can tell this is going to be a lot of fun." Sora grinned. "You never get bored with this company."

"Sheesh, we really have some hot-blooded individuals here…" Yuzu said with a sigh, but she was smiling. "I guess that's part of our charm."

While making small talk like this, the group of youths exited You Show.

An hour and a half later…

"Damn, the streets were packed. I don't think I've ever seen so much traffic in Maiami City before."

Yuya commented with an awed look as their group moved through the lower levels of Maiami Stadium under the guidance of Nakajima to avoid the hordes of overenthusiastic fans converging on the stadium.

"It's not that surprising." Yukio said. "After all, it's not only people from our dimension that will be converging on the city, but also people from the other three dimensions. There's bound to be large amounts of traffic."

"It's a good thing that Akaba Reiji arranged a ride with one of his company's helicopters for all of us." Sawatari said. "Otherwise, we'd still be stuck down there. He really thinks of everything."

"Here we are." Nakajima said as the group arrived before a large door. "This is the waiting room where all the members of the Lancers will wait until the ceremony officially begins. Food and beverages are available, and if you need anything else, you can use the intercom to contact the staff. I believe some of your comrades have already arrived, so this is a good chance to mingle before the matches."

After saying so, Nakajima took his leave, with the seven youths entering the large hall at the same time.

"Oh, it's been some time, everyone!"

Before they even had the chance to take in the sights, Yuya and the rest were greeted by an enthusiastic Yugo, who was busy gorging himself with as many delicacies as possible. However, his attempts to speak while still eating resulted in him almost choking on a chicken leg and starting a coughing fit."

"Oh, for the love of…" Rin had a fed-up expression on her face as she hit Yugo on his back. "How many times do I have to tell you not to talk until you've finished eating? This is the fourth time in a row. What are you, a child?"

"Ah, cut him some slack." Crow, who was also busy eating, albeit at a slower pace, said. "Things might be better now with the new government, but us Commons are still unused to such a bounty. Besides, food is the most important aspect of Dueling. You can't perform at one hundred percent with an empty stomach."

"Actually, Duels are—"

"Don't." Yukio stopped Yuya before he could continue. "If you start another pointless 'smiles versus food' debate, we'll be here all day."

"Hey, Yuya, everyone!" Chojiro Tokumatsu waved at the group in an enthusiastic manner as he approached them. "You're all looking healthy!"

"Tokumatsu-san!" Yuya shook the older man's hand in an enthusiastic manner. "You're participating as well?"

"I was one of your allies back in Synchro, no?" Tokumatsu grinned. "As for participating, I don't know that yet, but I intend to enjoy myself to the fullest whether I'm a participant or a spectator. This should be a valuable experience for my eventual return to the scene of Pro Dueling."

"It is as you say, Tokumatsu." Jack approached the group with a small smile on his face. "If I'm one of the chosen Duelists, I look forward to facing any of you in a match, especially you, Yuya. I intend to reclaim my title as Duel King from you."

"Get in line, Jack." Yugo said with a fierce expression. "There's only one person fit for the title of Duel King, and that's me! I will defeat both of you and rise to the top!"

"Hoh, how interesting." Jack's smirk became wider. "The more participants in a race, the more exciting it will be. I'll accept your challenge any time, Yugo."

"Looks like the Synchro gang is fired up." Yukio commented with a smile. "Don't you agree, Gongenzaka?"

"That's how it should be." Gongenzaka nodded. "Men and women must always be fiery if they want to shine brightly."

At that moment, the door opened once again, with several familiar people rushing in.

"Yuya! Finally, we get to meet again after so long!"

Before he had a chance to react, Yuya was almost knocked down by an overly enthusiastic Grace, who rushed to embrace him with a wide smile on her face. Following behind her was a scowling Gloria, Dennis, Allen, Sayaka, Yuto, Ruri, Shun, Kaito, Edo, Amon, Koyo, Midori and Byron.

"I've really missed you, Yuya!" Grace continued nuzzling against him. "When are you going to show me more exciting forms of Entertainment Dueling like you promised?"

"Yuyaaaa…" Yuzu spoke with a low voice and twitching hands as a dark aura surrounded her, causing everyone to start edging away from her. "Who is this girl and why is she acting so familiar with you!?"

"Please don't mind my sister." Gloria said as she grabbed her sister by the ear and started dragging her away. "Grace, stop causing trouble for Yuya! Also, do something about your manners! This isn't the way to act when you have a request to make!"

"Ow, ow!" Grace cried out. "My ear! You're going to rip my ear off, Gloria!"

"Don't worry about it, Yuzu. She's just an overenthusiastic fan of Yuya's Duels, nothing else."

Yukio whispered to Yuzu. While he found her jealous fit amusing, he wasn't about to leave his friend weather the storm. The effect was instantaneous as the pink-haired girl calmed down, with everyone around her letting a sigh of relief.

"Welcome Back!" Dennis exclaimed with an exaggerated gesture. "It's good to be back in Standard once again! No, forgive me, it's Pendulum now, is it not? Either way, I've missed this place."

"You're looking well, Dennis." Yuya shook his former comrade's hand. "I heard Dad has been helping you with starting a You Show Duel School branch in Heartland. How are things going?"

"Slow, but we're getting there." Dennis said. "I have to hand it to Sensei though, he never seems to run out of energy or enthusiasm. Even though he should have been exhausted with helping Leo Corporation, he still found time for us as well."

"That's true." Edo added from the side. "He's been a huge help in the reconstruction project as well, always rushing to mediate when there's trouble. However, I feel guilty that we've been taking so much of his time. Between us and his work at Leo Corporation, you and your mother must have barely seen your father in the past months."

"Don't worry, we'll manage." Yuya said with a smile. "I wish I could spend some more time with him after we've been apart for three years, but I understand his current work is very important."

"Festival, festival~!" Koyo was singing with an ecstatic expression on his face. "Finally, after so much work, we get the chance to have some fun! Isn't that great, Midori!?"

"It is, but stop making a fool of yourself, Koyo." Midori slapped her brother's head. "Everyone's staring."

"Cut him some slack." Kaito said. "He's been working as hard as any of us, so let him relax for now."

"Work is fine, but knowing when to rest is also important." Amon said, and then turned to Kaito. "I hope your skills haven't dulled during this period of peace. I've always wanted to face the man who struck terror in Academia's soldiers' hearts in a one-on-one match."

"My skills haven't dulled one bit, I assure you." Kaito smirked. "If we do get chosen and end up participating, I'll show you my full power. Even if we don't, there's always the upcoming interdimensional Pro League."

"Don't forget us!" Allen cut in from the side. "We've also been training like crazy in our free time to become stronger! We're not the same Duelists who lost to the Tyler Sisters! Isn't that right, Sayaka!?"

"Yes." Sayaka nodded. "If we do participate, we will you show you a Duel that won't bring shame to the name of Lancers."

"Ah, how nice to be young and full of vigor." Byron remarked with a wistful expression. "Still, I don't intend to lose to you youngsters just yet."

"I hope you've prepared yourself, Yukio." A few steps away, Shun was conversing with Yukio. "If I end up participating and we get matched up, I intend to pay you back for the defeat at the Friendship Cup."

"Bring it on, Kurosaki. If it's you, I'm sure we can have a great match again. However…what's up with that…?"

Yukio pointed at Shun's left hand, which was gripping Yuto's head like a vice. The young Xyz Duelist looked half-conscious with a dispirited expression on his face.

"Oh, this?" Shun gestured at Yuto. "Merely righteous punishment for the fool who tried to take advantage of the situation to have some alone time with my sister without my supervision. I still haven't forgiven them for keeping me in the dark about their relationship."

"How harsh…"

"Geez, brother!" Ruri complained. "That's why we didn't tell you anything! We both knew you'd react like that! You know I'm not some spoiled princess that needs to be pampered and Yuto is an upstanding young man and your best friend! You really should stop overreacting!"

"I'm not overreacting at all!" Shun countered. "This tryst of yours behind my back was a serious breach of trust! Furthermore, you—"

"Here they go again…" Yuto said, having taken this chance to extricate himself from Shun's grip, before turning to Yukio. "Speaking of relationships, I heard from Ruri that you and Serena got together. Congratulations. I hope you're having an easier time than me."

"I wish that was the case." Yukio grimaced. "Unfortunately, I have to deal with an overprotective parent instead of an overprotective brother. I haven't even had the time to go on a proper date with Serena for crying out loud."

"Relationships are difficult…"

"They sure are…"

Both young men let out a dispirited sigh. At that time, the door opened once again, with more familiar faces pouring into the room.

"It seems we're the last to arrive. Well, at least that means we won't be waiting on any slowpokes."

Yuri commented with his trademark sarcastic smile. Behind him stood Asuka, Johan, Barrett and Ryo, who was slowly pushing a wheelchair with a bespectacled young man with blue hair and grey eyes on it. Yukio noted that his right hand seemed to be missing.

"Kaiser, this is…?"

"It's as you've probably guessed." Ryo said as he turned to the young man on the wheelchair. "This is my younger brother, Marufuji Sho. He wished to see all of you in person. I hope he's not a bother."

"Of course not." Yukio said as he kneeled in front of Sho. "Nice to meet you, Sho. I'm Tachibana Yukio, a member of the Lancers. Your brother and I have had a bit of…history together."

"So I've heard." Sho said with a smile. "Big brother always speaks fondly about the Duels you two had."

"Is that so?" Yukio said. "Well, that's good to hear. Let's introduce you to the rest of the gang."

As Ryo pushed Sho's wheelchair alongside Yukio towards members of the Synchro and Xyz groups, who were chatting together, Yugo approached Yuri.

"What's up with the fancy bracelets, grinning bastard?" Yugo pointed at the several bracelet-like devices locked around Yuri's limbs and throat. "Some sort of fashion statement?"

"Tracking devices." Yuri smirked. "I'm afraid I haven't been obeying the rules of my confinement to the letter. I tend to disable them and sneak out, and once I come back, they would put an extra one on me. Seriously, I wish they would consider how much of a hassle deactivating one is, let alone several."

"But I count at least eighteen bracelets on you." Yugo commented with an incredulous expression. "Did you really sneak out seventeen times?"

"I was bored and sore from sitting around." Yuri responded in a flippant manner. "I needed some fresh air."

"No wonder your psychiatrist is close to tearing his diploma and running for the hills…" Yuto said while sighing. "You actually have to obey the rules of your confinement, Yuri. The court ruled that most of your misdeeds should be attributed to Zarc's influence, which is why you got off with only being confined at home for a period of time and periodic psychiatric evaluations. You're not doing yourself a favor by being uncooperative like that. You might feel bored, but try to make an effort at least."

"I'll take that under consideration…if you beat me in a Duel that is."

"So it always ends up to that, huh?" Yugo snorted. "Very well then. If we both get chosen and are matched together, I'll knock some sense into you, grinning bastard."

"I'd like to see you try, Fusion." Yuri smirked. "You remember how our last encounter ended, right?"

"It's not Fusion, it's—!" Yugo started to say, but cut himself off. "No, I won't be baited. Also, I've grown much stronger since last time, cabbage head. This time, you'll be squirming on the ground and I'll be laughing from above."

"Only in your wildest dreams." Yuri scoffed at Yugo's words. "To begin with, you—"

While Yugo and Yuri started bickering again, Yuzu approached Asuka, who was standing on the side.

"Asuka-san…"

"I know what you're thinking, but it's alright." Asuka said with a half-hearted smile. "My brother's death…it has taken its toll on me, but I'll manage."

"If you say so." Yuzu said. "But you should know that I'm here for you if you want to talk. Alright?"

"Thank you." Asuka said, and then she showed a mischievous smile. "More importantly, how are things going between you and your little crush? I'm dying for some juicy details here~."

"Asuka-san! What are you saying all of a sudden!?"

Yuzu's face was beet red as she complained to her friend. At the same time, Barrett was busy talking to Yukio in a corner of the room.

"I heard about you and Serena-sama." Barrett said. "While it's none of my business who she dates and I respect you as a fellow warrior, know this; hurt her feelings and you will answer to me. Whatever pain and suffering you went through over the course of the war will seem like child's play once I'm done with you."

"Sheesh, my girlfriend is so lucky to have two overprotective parents…" Yukio said with a half-lidded smile. "In any case, you don't have to worry, Barrett. I'd sooner saw my own arm off than hurt Serena's feelings."

"I'll hold you to that."

Like that, all members of the Lancers and their allies conversed with one another for some time until the clear sound of a chime was heard.

[All members of the Lancers, the opening ceremony is about to begin.] Nakajima's voice was heard coming from a speaker. [Please step on the circular platform at the right side of the room.]

Everyone did as asked and moved on the platform. At the same time, a familiar voice boomed across the stadium.

[Welcome, ladies and gentleman in the audience stands and those watching us from across the four dimensions! Welcome to Maiami Stadium, where the Maiami Championship will once again take place! I'm Nico Smiley from the Pendulum Dimension, and I will be one of your hosts for today's grand event!]

[And I'm Melissa Claire from the Synchro Dimension, the second announcer for today's Duels! Everyone, it's a pleasure to be here!]

[Today's weather is excellent for some passionate and fiery Duels!] Nico stated. [So, let's get this festival started by introducing our prospective Duelists! Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the saviors of the four dimensions, the Lancers!]

Following Nico's words, the platform started rising. After a few seconds, it emerged at the center of the stadium, with the Lancers being subjected to the thunderous applause coming from the audience.

"It's them! The Lancers in the flesh!"

"That's Sakaki Yuya, the originator of Pendulum!"

"Isn't that Kurosaki Shun over there!? He looks so mysterious and cool like usual!"

"Sawatari! Over here, Sawatari!"

"Tachibana Yukio! We're looking forward to another exciting Duel from you!"

"Yuzu-chan, I love you! Please go out with me!"

"Atlas-sama, you look wonderful as always!"

"Kaiser! Kaiser! Kaiser!"

"Blow them all away, Tenjo Kaito!"

Such cheers could be heard coming from every member of the audience, addressing specific individuals from the Lancers. While some like Sawatari responded back in an enthusiastic manner by waving their hands and making small bows, others like Shun remained stoic and unmoving, either from lack of interest or embarrassment.

"Isn't it nice to be so loved?" Melissa commented with a smile. "However, we still have two more members unaccounted for—wait, scratch that, boys and girls. Here comes the man himself, the leader of the Lancers, Akaba Reiji and his younger brother Reira! Give them a round of applause, everyone!"

Following Melissa's words, a helicopter with Leo Corporation's logo appeared above the stadium, with a rope being thrown out of it. Immediately afterwards, Reiji effortlessly slid down the rope while carrying Reira on his right hand, landing in front of the assembled Lancers with graceful moves and depositing Reira next to him.

"Show-off…"

Yukio muttered.

[Kyaaaah! Reiji-sama!]

The ground went ballistic once again following Reiji's entrance. The grey-haired youth raised his hand in acknowledgment, while Reira looked uncomfortable to be in the center of so much attention. However, unlike before, he didn't cower behind his brother's back but stood next to him instead.

"Yes, yes, I understand you're all very excited, but we should allow Reiji-sama to speak if we want this tournament to start." Nico said. "If you would, Reiji-sama."

"Thank you." Reiji began speaking. "I would also like to welcome all of you in this grand event to celebrate the end of a terrible war that almost ruined us all. However, before the start of the main round, I thought it would be a good idea to make things a bit more exciting with an exhibition match."

Following Reiji's announcement, confused murmurs could be heard coming from the members of the audience. Even the Lancers seemed uncertain since the schedule hadn't mentioned anything about an exhibition match. Reiji was unperturbed by this atmosphere as he continued speaking.

"I understand that this is rather sudden. However, we figured there was no better time for this particular Duel to occur. The first participant will be the young man who has perhaps contributed the most in our fight against Akaba Leo's regime and the threat of Zarc. Sakaki Yuya, please step forward."

Yuya was surprised by this call, but started moving once Yukio gave him a gentle push. After arriving next to Reiji, he addressed him.

"I didn't hear anything about an exhibition match. Am I going to be facing you?"

"No, your opponent won't be me." Reiji said. "There is a much more suitable person that wishes to test your skills and see how much you've grown."

"Test me…? It can't be…!"

At that moment, an explosion of colorful smoke erupted on the other side of the field while several spotlights were focused on it. Once the smoke cleared, a familiar figure clad in his usual flamboyant outfit appeared there.

"Oh my, what a surprise!" Nico exclaimed amidst even more cheers. "It appears Sakaki Yuya's opponent in this match will be none other than his own father, the former champion Sakaki Yusho! This is certainly an unexpected turn of events, but this should definitely heat things up!"

"From what I've heard, Sakaki Yusho is the one who taught Yuya his signature Dueling style, right?" Melissa said. "This will definitely be a match to remember!"

"Yusho is Dueling!?" Shuzo asked from his seat in the audience stands. "I hadn't heard anything about it! Were you aware of this, Yoko-san!?"

"No, but I knew this day would come sooner or later." Yoko spoke with a serious expression. "Yuya…if you truly wish to become a top-tier Entertainment Duelist, then show everyone here that you can surpass your father."

"Yuya-oniichan…" Ayu crossed her hands together. "Please do your best."

"Go, Yuya-oniichan!" Futoshi cheered. "Give him shivers he'll never forget~!"

"You can definitely defeat Yusho-sensei." Tatsuya spoke with a determined look. "Show everyone your strength, Yuya-oniichan."

Meanwhile, Yuya and Yusho walked towards each other, stopping a few steps away of each other and staring at each other's eyes without saying a word. Eventually, Yuya broke the silence first after a few seconds.

"Dad, I—"

"If you have something to say, do it through this." Yusho cut off Yuya as he pointed at his Deck. "That's how it should be for Duelists."

"Right." Yuya nodded. "I'll show you how much I've changed through our Duel!"

"I'm looking forward to it." Yusho smiled. "Let's enjoy ourselves to the fullest!"

"It appears both players are ready for action!" Nico announced as all the members of the Lancers moved to the side of the stadium. "As such, it's time to select the battleground! Action Field, on! Field Spell Magical Broadway, deploy!"

The Real Solid Vision system beneath the stadium initialized, transforming the field into a brightly lit area surrounded by skyscrapers with numerous billboards placed on them.

"Dad's favorite field, eh…?" Yuya let out a half-lidded smile. "Looks like I'm fighting on hostile ground."

"The field is set and our contestants look ready for battle!" Nico exclaimed. "As such, let's proceed with the customary chant! Would my lovely co-announcer do the honors?"

"With pleasure!" Melissa said. "Duelists locked in battle!"

"Kicking the earth and dancing in the air alongside their Monsters!"

Nico delivered the next line, with Melissa continuing.

"They storm through this field!"

"Behold! This is the newest and greatest evolution of Dueling!"

"Action—!"

[Duel!]

Both Yuya and Yusho shouted together as the Action Cards spread across the field.

Yuya – LP: 4000

Yusho – LP: 4000

"I'll take the first turn!" Yuya announced. "I summon Entermate Discover Hippo (ATK: 800/DEF: 800/LV: 3)!"

The pink hippo wearing a hat appeared on Yuya's field. The young Duelist wasted no time and jumped on Discover Hippo's back as it started running.

"Oh, it appears Sakaki Yuya is already mobile!" Nico said. "Could he be searching for Action Cards!?"

"Next, I activate the Spell Card Spectacular Hippo Carnival." Yuya continued. "Through its effect, Discover Hippo gains 500 defense (Discover Hippo DEF: 800→1300) and I will Special Summon three Hippo Tokens (Earth/Beast/ATK: 800/DEF: 800/LV: 3) in each of our fields in defense mode!"

Following Yuya's words, three hippos dressed in flashy costumes appeared on his field, while three more appeared on Yusho's field.

"Now then, everyone, please enjoy our performers' captivating dance!"

The four hippos started dancing following Yuya's words, prompting the audience to clap alongside them while smiling.

"Ah, how nostalgic." Melissa said. "I recall Yuya did something similar during the semifinals of the Friendship Cup as well."

"I place two cards face-down and end my turn." Yuya said. "Now, bring it on, Dad!"

"Not a bad opening act, Yuya." Yusho smiled. "However, from this point on, this is my stage! My turn! Draw! Since you were so kind to offer me these Tokens, I will put them to good use. I release two Hippo Tokens in order to Advance Summon! Appear, my trusted partner! Entermate Sky Magician (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7)!"

A multi-colored beam of light erupted from the ground, with Sky Magician emerging from it. Yusho jumped on one of the rings it was holding as Sky Magician shot forward, chasing after Yuya.

"The ace Monster on his first turn?" Yuzu frowned. "Uncle is going all out from the start…"

"I knew you were going to do that." Yuya let out a sly smile. "Since the Hippo Tokens on my opponent's field were used for an Advance Summon, Spectacular Hippo Carnival's effect allows me to perform an Advance Summon during my opponent's turn by releasing an equal number of Hippo Tokens and have both players draw one card from their Deck. Appear, wondrous dragon with beautiful dichromatic eyes! Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7/SC: 4)!"

Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon appeared on Yuya's field amidst an explosion of light, with Yuya jumping from Discover Hippo's back on Odd-Eyes' back. At the same time, both players drew a card from their Decks.

"He brought out his own ace Monster during his opponent's turn." Gongenzaka smirked. "Good move, Yuya."

"Since you brought out a dragon, let's liven up the stage a bit with my own." Yusho said. "Since I control Sky Magician, I can Advance Summon this card from my hand by releasing only one Monster, in this case, my remaining Hippo Token. Show yourself on this stage, Entermate Sky Dragon (Wind/Spellcaster/Effect/ATK: 2600/DEF: 2100/LV: 7)!"

A white-colored dragon with violet-colored wings and a serpentine body, which had several rings surrounding its body and multi-colored feathers sprouting from its neck, appeared on Yusho's field.

"Oh, it seems Sakaki Yusho brought out another powerful Monster!" Nico announced. "Things aren't looking good for Sakaki Yuya!"

"Since a Monster was Special Summoned on my opponent's field, I can activate the Trap Card Entertainment Dragon's Shadow." Yuya declared. "Through its effect, I will tribute my remaining Hippo Token in order to equip Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon to Discover Hippo and have it gain attack equal to Odd-Eyes' attack (Discover Hippo ATK: 800→3300). Furthermore, cards I control cannot be destroyed for the rest of this turn."

"With this, Yuya's cards should be safe for this turn." Yukio remarked. "However, it seems like Yusho-san still has some tricks up his sleeve judging from his expression…"

"I activate the Continuous Spell Card Magician's Cloak." Yusho stated. "And since I activated a Continuous Spell Card, Sky Magician's attack increases by 300 (Sky Magician ATK: 2500→2800). Next, I activate Sky Dragon's effect, which allows me to increase the attack of all "Entermate" Monsters on my field by 1000 until the End Phase."

Entermate Sky Dragon howled as both it and Sky Magician were surrounded by a rainbow-colored aura.

(Sky Magician ATK: 2800→3800, Sky Dragon ATK: 2600→3600)

"Battle!" Yusho exclaimed. "Entermate Sky Magician, attack Entermate Discover Hippo! Aerial Piercer!"

Just as Sky Magician prepared to attack, Yusho noticed an Action Card on top of one of the billboards. He jumped on Sky Dragon's back, and from there jumped and landed on the billboard, snatching the Action Card.

"I activate the Action Spell Twin Lance!" Yusho continued. "Through its effect, all battle damage from battles involving Monsters is doubled for this turn! Go, Sky Magician!"

"It won't be so easy!" Yuya jumped from Odd-Eyes' back and activated his rollerblades, dashing forward and grabbing an Action Card embedded on the wall of a building. "I activate the Action Spell Evade! Your attack is negated!"

Following Yuya's words, Odd-Eyes with Discover Hippo on his back made a backflip, evading Sky Magician's charge. At the same time, Yuya dashed up a ramp and sailed through the air, landing on his dragon's back once again.

"Oh, nice moves!" Melissa said as the crowd cheered. "Father and son are holding nothing back in this exchange of offense and defense! However, Sakaki Yusho still has one Monster left to attack!"

"It's your turn now, Entermate Sky Dragon!" Yusho pointed at Odd-Eyes. "Vibrant Blaze!"

Sky Dragon opened its maw wide, unleashing a multi-colored wave of energy that struck Odd-Eyes, causing Yuya to wince from the ensuing shockwave.

Yuya – LP: 4000→3400

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Yusho said. "At this moment, Sky Dragon's effect ends, returning my Monsters' attack to normal (Sky Magician ATK: 3800→2800, Sky Dragon ATK: 3600→2600)."

"Entertainment Dragon's Shadow's effect also ends, allowing me to Special Summon the equipped Odd-Eyes to my field." Yuya said as Discover Hippo jumped off Odd-Eyes' back. "Now, it's my turn! Draw! I summon Entermate Duck Dealer (Wind/Beast/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 100/DEF: 1100/LV: 4/SC: 4)!"

A Monster resembling a humanoid duck with a roulette on the center of its body appeared on Yuya's field.

"Since I control an "Entermate" Monster, I can Special Summon this card from my hand." Yuya continued. "Come, Entermate Card Bird (Wind/Winged Beast/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 800/DEF: 1600/SC: 5)!"

A bird with wings and tails made out of playing cards appeared on Yuya's field.

"Duck Dealer's effect activates, allowing me to draw a card from my Deck since I summoned an "Entermate" Monster." Yuya announced. "Then, I activate the Spell Card Pendulum Card Burst, destroying my two Monsters in order to draw two cards from my Deck. Now, it's time for the main event. Using the Scale 2 Acrobat Magician (Dark/Spellcaster/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 800/DEF: 2300/LV: 5/SC: 2) and the Scale 8 Entermate Heavenly Magician (Dark/Spellcaster/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 1500/DEF: 1000/LV: 4/SC: 8), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

The two columns of light appeared next to Yuya's side, with a Monster clad in a circus outfit that held an ornate staff and a Monster resembling Zarc in a humanoid form rising to their top.

"Next, I activate the Continuous Spell Card Pendulum of Soul." Yuya continued. "Through its effect, I can target two cards in my Pendulum Zones and change each target's Pendulum Scale by 1. I will reduce Acrobat Magician's Scale and increase Heavenly Magician's Scale (Acrobat Magician SC: 2→1, Heavenly Magician SC: 8→9)."

"A card that modifies the Pendulum Scale, eh?" Sora commented. "It looks like Yuya is getting more and more adept at handling the Pendulum."

"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 2 through 9!" Yuya declared. "Swing, Pendulum of my Soul! Draw an arc of light across the ether! Pendulum Summon! Revive from the Extra Deck, Duck Dealer and Card Bird!"

Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Monsters upon landing on Yuya's field.

"Since I performed a Pendulum Summon successfully, the second effect of Pendulum of Soul activates, allowing me to place a Soul Counter on it (SC: 0→1)." Yuya stated. "For every Soul Counter, my Pendulum Monsters gain 300 attack (Odd-Eyes ATK: 2500→2800, Duck Dealer ATK: 100→400, Card Bird ATK: 800→1100). Then, I Overlay the Level 4 Duck Dealer and Card Bird!"

As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuya chanted.

"Dragon with the dichromatic eyes! Erase everything before you with the relentless flames of chaos and tear the proud apart with your fearsome claws! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 4! Odd-Eyes Extremis Dragon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/R: 4/OU: 2)!"

A pillar of flames erupted on the field, with Odd-Eyes Extremis Dragon emerging from it.

"Sakaki Yuya has Xyz Summoned!" Nico exclaimed. "Could this be the beginning of a fierce counterattack!?"

"Battle!" Yuya shouted. "Odd-Eyes Extremis Dragon, attack Sky Magician! At this moment, I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Extremis Dragon's effect, through which I—"

"Naïve, Yuya!" Yusho cut him off. "You should have paid closer attention to the field! Once during either player's turn, when my opponent's Monster is about to activate its effect while I control a Spellcaster-type Monster, the effect of Magician's Cloak activates! Through it, your effect's activation is negated and your Monster is destroyed!"

An ornate cloak appeared around Sky Magician, which the Monster threw at Extremis Dragon. The cloak enveloped the dragon's body and tightened around it, destroying it.

"Damn it…" Yuya grimaced. "However, since Extremis Dragon was destroyed, its effect activates, allowing me to add an "Odd-Eyes" Monster from my Deck to my hand. I choose Odd-Eyes Synchron. Then, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon will attack Entermate Sky Dragon! Spiral Strike Burst!"

Odd-Eyes opened its maw wide, unleashing a stream of crimson energy that struck Sky Dragon.

"Odd-Eyes' effect activates!" Yuya exclaimed. "When it battles a Level 5 or higher Monster, the battle damage is doubled! Reaction Force!"

The spiral-shaped energy blast intensified following Yuya's words, enveloping Sky Dragon and destroying it, with Yusho grimacing due to the shockwave.

Yusho – LP: 4000→3600

"The destroyed Sky Dragon's effect activates." Yusho stated. "Through it, the Monster that destroyed it loses 1000 attack (Odd-Eyes ATK: 2800→1800)."

"It appears Yuya's attempt for a counterattack didn't turn out so well." Melissa announced. "As expected from one of this dimension's greatest Duelists, he isn't an easy opponent to overcome."

"I switch Discover Hippo to defense mode and end my turn." Yuya said. "At this moment, Card Bird's effect activates, allowing me to draw a card from my Deck since it was destroyed during this turn."

"It's my turn!" Yusho announced. "Draw! I summon the Tuner Monster Entermate Fire Hopper (ATK: 200/DEF: 400/LV: 1)!"

The small Monster clad in a colorful costume and surrounded by a ring of flames appeared on Yusho's field.

"I activate the Spell Card Performer's Magic Curtain." Yusho continued. "Through its effect, I can Special Summon an "Entermate" Spellcaster-type Monster from my Deck with an equal or lower Level than that of an "Entermate" Spellcaster-type Monster on my field, in this case Sky Magician. Come, Entermate Mirage Sorcerer (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 7)!"

A red curtain appeared on Yusho's field, with Mirage Sorcerer emerging from it as it opened.

"I tune the Level 7 Mirage Sorcerer with the Level 1 Fire Hopper!" As Mirage Sorcerer turned into seven stars and Fire Hopper turned into a single ring surrounding them, Yusho chanted. "With your enchanting brilliance, descend upon this stage and ignite the flames of passion within the hearts of men! Synchro Summon! Come forth, Level 8! Entermate Blaze Magician (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 8)!"

The Monster clad in a crimson and orange suit with several concentric rings of fire hovering behind it, which held a gold staff in its hands, appeared on Yusho's field.

"Ah, that's Sensei's Synchro Monster." Dennis remarked. "I remember how surprised I was when he used it against me. Not to mention, it's a pretty strong Monster. Yuya should tread carefully here."

"Mirage Sorcerer's effect activates, increasing Blaze Magician's attack by 500 for every Monster used to summon it." Yusho stated. "Since two Monsters were used, my Monster gains 1000 attack (Blaze Magician ATK: 2500→3500). Now, let's battle! Blaze Magician, attack Discover Hippo! And thanks to its effect, Blaze Magician can inflict piercing damage! Go, my Monster! Artifice Blaze Wave!"

"Not good!" Yuya grimaced, but then spotted an Action Card on the balcony of a building above him. He gestured at Odd-Eyes, which started jumping from billboard to billboard. When it got close enough, Yuya jumped from its back and landed on the balcony, swiping the Action Card. "Alright! I activate the Action Card Illusion Dance, whose effect allows me to—"

"Entermate Sky Magician's effect activates!" Yusho cut off Yuya. "Once per turn, when a Spell or a Trap Card is activated, I can return a Continuous Spell Card from my field back to the hand and activate a different Continuous Spell Card from my hand! I will return Magician's Cloak to my hand and will activate Magician's Right Hand! Thanks to its effect, the activation of your Spell Card is negated and it's destroyed! Furthermore, Sky Magician gains 300 attack thanks to its effect (Sky Magician ATK: 2800→3100), and Blaze Magician deals you 300 points of damage since I activated a Spell Card!"

Several flaming arrows were shot out of Blaze Magician's fire rings, striking Yuya and causing him to hiss in pain.

Yuya – LP: 3400→3100

"In that case, I activate the Trap Card Odd-Eyes Battle Link!" Yuya shouted. "Through its effect, I—"

"I won't let you escape so easily!" Yusho said. "I activate the Counter Trap Card Sorcerous Storm! Through its effect, if I control a Spellcaster-type Monster, I can send a card from my hand to the Graveyard in order to negate the activation of a Spell or Trap Card and destroy it! Therefore, Blaze Magician's attack resumes!"

Following Yusho's words, Discover Hippo was consumed by the conflagration, with Yuya letting out a cry of pain as the shockwave threw him off Odd-Eyes' back and on the ground.

Yuya – LP: 3100→900

"Blaze Magician's effect activates." Yusho said. "Through it, my Monsters' attack increases by an amount equal to the amount of battle damage my opponent took, in this case 2200 (Blaze Magician ATK: 3500→5700, Sky Magician ATK: 3100→5300)

"Oh, what's this!?" Nico exclaimed. "With a single attack, Sakaki Yusho dealt massive damage to his son and boosted his Monsters' attack! The skills of the former champion are no joke!"

"No kidding!" Melissa said next to him. "It appears Yuya is in a massive pinch, and it's only Sakaki Yusho's second turn! Does he have a way out of this, or could this be the end!?"

"Next, Entermate Sky Magician will attack Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!" Yusho pointed at Yuya's remaining Monster. "Aerial Piercer!"

"I activate the effect of Spectacular Hippo Carnival in my Graveyard!" Yuya declared. "By banishing it and Discover Hippo, I can negate your attack and draw one card from my Deck!"

Several ghostly hippos appeared in front of Sky Magician, blocking its attack and exploding into a shower of particles that spread across the field.

"I end my turn with this." Yusho said. "What's wrong, Yuya? Is that the best your Entertainment Duel can do? I've barely started trying and your Life Points are already in the red zone."

"No, my Entertainment Duel has only just begun, Dad!" Yuya declared with a smile. "My turn! Draw! I summon the Tuner Monster Entermate Odd-Eyes Synchron (ATK: 200/DEF: 600/LV: 2/SC: 6)!"

Odd-Eyes Synchron appeared on Yuya's field next to Odd-Eyes.

"Since I control at least one "Entermate" Monster, I can Special Summon this card from my hand." Yuya continued. "Come, Entermate Inverse Blader (Earth/Warrior/Effect/ATK: 0/DEF: 250/LV: 1)!"

A Monster clad in a colorful outfit with two blades instead of hands appeared on Yuya's field.

"I tune the Level 7 Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon and the Level 1 Inverse Blader with the Level 2 Odd-Eyes Synchron!" As Inverse Blader and Odd-Eyes turned into one and seven stars respectively while Odd-Eyes Synchron turned into two rings surrounding them, Yuya chanted. "Raging gale soaring through the blue sky! Dwell in the eye of the dragon and open the gate to the new world! Synchro Summon! Descend, Level 10! Nimble dragon personifying the unstoppable wind, Gale-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 3200→3500/DEF: 2500/LV: 10/SC: 3)!"

The dragon with dual-colored eyes clad in light green armor, which had two large wings extending from its back and several vents discharging mist protruding from its body, appeared on Yuya's field.

"Battle!" Yuya exclaimed. "Gale-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, attack Blaze Magician! At this moment, Gale-Eyes' effect activates! When it battles an opponent's Monster, that Monster loses attack equal to the sum of the Scale Values its Pendulum Monster Materials had, in this case 10, multiplied by 100! Therefore, Blaze Magician loses 1000 attack (Blaze Magician ATK: 5700→4700)!"

"That may be the case, but your Monster's attack is still lower than mine." Yusho pointed out. "Unless you have something else up your sleeve?"

"Of course I do." Yuya said with a smile. "Inverse Blader's effect activates. When this card is used as material or tribute for summoning a Pendulum Monster, that Monster gains a very useful effect. Thanks to it, once during either player's turn, when an opponent's Monster loses attack, my Monster gains attack equal to double the amount of attack that Monster lost until the End Phase. Since Blaze Magician lost 1000 attack, Gale-Eyes gains 2000 attack (Gale-Eyes ATK: 3500→5500)!"

"An attack of 5500!" Edo exclaimed. "It finally surpassed Blaze Magician's attack!"

"The battle continues!" Yuya declared. "Go, Gale-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! Spiral Storm Chaos!"

A massive twister surrounded by thunder erupted from Gale-Eyes' maw, striking Blaze Magician head-on and vaporizing it. Although Yusho escaped the brunt of the explosion thanks to Sky Magician, he still grimaced due to being struck by the ensuing shockwave.

Yusho – LP: 3600→2800

"Since it destroyed an opponent's Monster, Gale-Eyes' second effect activates." Yuya continued. "Thanks to it, I can destroy a Spell or Trap Card on the field. I choose to destroy Magician's Right Hand. Tempest Nail!"

Gale-Eyes swung its arm, with a crescent-shaped wind blade shooting out of it and destroying Magician's Right Hand.

"You're finally showing me something amusing, Yuya." Yusho smiled. "However, your attack benefited me as well. Mirage Sorcerer's effect in my Graveyard activates. If the Monster that used this card as material is destroyed, I can banish Mirage Sorcerer in order to draw cards from my Deck equal to the number of materials used to summon Blaze Magician plus one. Therefore, I will draw three cards."

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Yuya said. "At this moment, Inverse Blader's effect ends, returning my Monster's attack to normal (Gale-Eyes ATK: 5500→3500)."

"It's my turn!" Yusho announced. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Entermate Pendulum Festival. Through its effect, I can add two "Entermate" Pendulum Monsters from my Deck to my hand if my opponent controls a Pendulum Monster and has two Pendulum Monsters in their Pendulum Zones. Next, using the added Scale 2 Entermate Sky Sage (Wind/Spellcaster/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 1500/DEF: 2500/LV: 6/SC: 2) and the Scale 9 Entermate Beat Minstrel (Dark/Spellcaster/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 1200/DEF: 1350/LV: 3/SC: 9), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

The two columns of light appeared on Yusho's side, with a Monster resembling an elderly wizard sitting on a multi-colored cloud and a Monster clad in a jester-like outfit that held an old-fashioned guitar rising to their top.

"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 3 through 8." Yusho declared. "Pendulum Summon! Join us on the stage, Entermate Talent Scout (Dark/Spellcaster/Effect/ATK: 900/DEF: 1300/LV: 3) and Entermate Radiant Sorcerer (Light/Spellcaster/Effect/ATK: 2700/DEF: 2350/LV: 8)!"

Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of a small Monster clad in a colorful tuxedo that held a magnifying glass and a Monster clad in golden robes with multicolored stars sewn on it that held an ornate crooked staff upon landing on Yusho's field.

"I release Talent Scout to activate its effect." Yusho continued. "Through it, I can add a Level 8 or lower "Entermate" Spellcaster-type Monster from my Deck to my hand. Then, I will release Sky Magician to Special Summon the Monster I just added to my hand. Descend now, Entermate Seventh Heaven Magician (Wind/Spellcaster/Effect/ATK: 3000/DEF: 2800/LV: 8)!"

Yusho jumped off Sky Magician as it turned into a shower of particles that flew upwards. The particles then converged and solidified into a Monster resembling Sky Magician, only with azure-colored robes and a cape that seemed to take the shape of four angel-like wings. Moreover, seven rings hovered behind it, while it held a sword-shaped staff in its right hand.

"That's…Yusho-sensei's evolved ace Monster?" Kaito frowned at the sight of Seventh Heaven Magician. "I never knew that Sky Magician had an evolved form…"

"That doesn't bode well for Yuya-kun." Byron commented from the side. "Yusho-san doesn't seem to intend to even give him time to breathe."

"Seventh Heaven Magician's effect depends on the number of face-up Spell Cards on both players' fields." Yusho said as he jumped on one of the rings hovering behind his Monster. "Counting our Pendulum Cards and your Continuous Spell Card, that number is five. That means my Monster can use most of its effects."

"Most of them?" Yuya grimaced. "That doesn't sound good."

"Due to its first effect, Seventh Heaven Magician gains 300 points for every face-up Spell Card, meaning its attack increases by 1500 (Seventh Heaven Magician ATK: 3000→4500)." Yusho stated. "Through its second effect, I can destroy a Monster on my opponent's field once per turn. Of course, I will destroy Gale-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"

Seventh Heaven Magician swung its sword-staff, unleashed a crescent-shaped wave that made Gale-Eyes vanish in an explosion of light once it struck the dragon.

"At this moment, Radiant Sorcerer's effect activates." Yusho said. "When an "Entermate" Monster I control destroys an opponent's Monster through battle or card effect, I can draw a card from my Deck."

"Since a Pendulum Monster on my field was destroyed, I can activate the Trap Card Odd-Eyes Reanimation." Yuya announced. "Through its effect, I can Special Summon an "Odd-Eyes" or "Pendulum Dragon" Monster face-up from my Extra Deck or Graveyard with a lower Level or Rank than the destroyed Monster. Revive, Odd-Eyes Extremis Dragon in defense mode!"

A portal appeared on Yuya's field, with Odd-Eyes Extremis Dragon emerging from it.

"In that case, let's battle!" Yusho exclaimed. "Radiant Sorcerer, destroy Odd-Eyes Extremis Dragon! Thousand Bright!"

Radiant Sorcerer lifted its staff high, generating numerous energy bullets that pelted Extremis Dragon, destroying it.

"Radiant Sorcerer's effect activates." Yusho said. "I will draw another card from my Deck."

"Since it was destroyed, Extremis Dragon's effect activates, allowing me to add Entermate Odd-Eyes Dissolver to my hand." Yuya stated. "Then, since the Monster summoned by Odd-Eyes Reanimation's effect was destroyed, I can banish Odd-Eyes Reanimation to Special Summon a face-up Pendulum Monster from my Extra Deck. Revive, Gale-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"

A rift in space appeared above Yuya, with Gale-Eyes emerging from it.

"In that case, Seventh Heaven Magician will attack Gale-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!" Yusho declared. "Moreover, thanks to its second effect, Seventh Heaven Magician negates the effects of the Monster it battles! Do it, my Monster! Seventh Arc Flash!"

"I activate Odd-Eyes Dissolver's effect in my hand!" Yuya bellowed. "Through its effect, I will Special Summon it along with preventing Gale-Eyes' destruction and reducing the battle damage to 0! Come, Entermate Odd-Eyes Dissolver (ATK: 2000→2300/DEF: 2600/LV: 8) in defense mode!"

A portal appeared next to Yuya, with Odd-Eyes Dissolver emerging from it. Then, it waved its staff, creating a spatial distortion in front of Gale-Eyes that shielded it from Seventh Heaven Magician's blast.

"Well played, but I'm afraid this act isn't over just yet." Yusho let out a small smirk. "Beat Minstrel's Pendulum Effect activates! Once per turn, when an "Entermate" Monster on my field declared an attack, but failed to destroy the opponent's Monster, it can attack once again! Go, Seventh Heaven Magician! Destroy Gale-Eyes and wipe out Yuya's remaining Life Points!"

As Seventh Heaven Magician prepared to attack once again, Yuya activated his rollerblades once again and dashed forward. Spotting an Action Card on top of a billboard in the distance, he signaled at Odd-Eyes Dissolver and jumped on its staff, with the Monster tossing him on top of a nearby building. Yuya jumped from there and landed on top of the billboard, grabbing the Action Card with seconds to spare.

"I activate the Action Spell Even Match!" Yuya shouted. "Through its effect, Gale-Eyes' attack becomes equal to that of the Monster with the highest attack on my opponent's field until the end of the Battle Phase, and if it battles that Monster, neither Monster is destroyed!"

Gale-Eyes opened its maw wide following Yuya's words, unleashing a powerful tempest that clashed with Seventh Heaven Magician's energy blast, generating a massive explosion that lit up the field.

"I see your luck is as strong as ever, Yuya." Yusho smirked. "But that's not going to be enough if you want to surpass me. I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"With some well-executed moves, Sakaki Yuya managed to escape from his father's merciless assault!" Nico stated. "However, the situation still favors Sakaki Yusho now that his powerful Seventh Heaven Magician is on the field! Does Yuya have any means to escape from this pinch!?"

"He's not going to give up without fighting, that's for sure!" Melissa said next to him. "Let's see what sort of tactics he'll show us this time!"

"It's my turn!" Yuya announced. "Draw! First, I activate the effect of Pendulum of Soul in order to change my Monsters' Pendulum Scales by 1 once again (Acrobat Magician SC: 1→0, Heavenly Magician SC: 9→10). Then, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Revive from the Extra Deck, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"

A single beam of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the form of Odd-Eyes upon landing on Yuya's field.

"Since I Pendulum Summoned once again, I will add another Soul Counter to Pendulum of Soul (Soul Counter: 1→2)." Yuya continued. "Therefore, my Monsters' attack will increase once again (Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon ATK: 2500→3100, Gale-Eyes Pendulum Dragon ATK: 3500→3800, Odd-Eyes Dissolver ATK: 2300→2600). Now then, time to introduce a new number in our act. I will activate the Spell Card Odd-Eyes Rhapsody, whose effect allows me to add an "Odd-Eyes" or "Pendulum Dragon" Ritual Monster and a Ritual Spell Card from my Deck to my hand if I control an "Odd-Eyes" Monster."

"Ritual?" Serena wondered. "Yuya has learned how to use Ritual on his own as well?"

"Surprised?" Yukio said with a smirk. "He had grasped the basic concept more or less, but I showed him how to properly perform a Ritual Summon. Things should get interesting from this point on."

"I activate the Ritual Spell Card Odd-Eyes Advent, offering Gale-Eyes Pendulum Dragon and Odd-Eyes Dissolver as tributes in order to Ritual Summon!" As an altar with torches which let out blue and red flames appeared on his field, with his two Monsters turning into particles and being absorbed by it, Yuya chanted. "Gentle light pouring down from the heavens! Cleanse the dual-colored eyes of the dragon and reveal the road leading to the promised world! Ritual Summon! Manifest now, Level 12! Radiant dragon shining in the sea of the darkness, Celestial-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (Light/Dragon/Ritual/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 3500→4100/DEF: 3500/LV: 12/SC: 10)!"

A dragon with dual-colored eyes clad in ornate azure armor with gold armor plates on it and several blue gems embedded on it, which had six wings resembling a cross between angel and dragon ones growing from its back and three concentric halos hovering above its head, appeared on Yuya's field.

"Oh my, how surprising!" Nico exclaimed. "Sakaki Yuya has performed his own Ritual Summon without relying on external assistance like in the battle against Zarc! Could this hidden trump card pave the path to victory for him!?"

"Celestial-Eyes' effect activates." Yuya declared. "When this card is Ritual Summoned successfully, I can banish all Monsters my opponent controls!"

"I'm afraid that's not good enough, Yuya!" Yusho stated as a wave of light that was emitted from Celestial-Eyes' wings approached his Monsters. "Sky Sage's Pendulum Effect activates! During either player's turn, the first time each "Entermate" Monster would leave my field, it doesn't! Therefore, your dragon's effect won't affect my Monsters!"

Following, Yusho's words, a magic circle appeared beneath his Monsters, with them diving in it and evading the advancing wave of light. Immediately afterwards, the magic circles reappeared above the field, with his Monsters emerging from them once more.

"In that case, let's battle!" Yuya exclaimed. "Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, attack Radiant Sorcerer! Spiral Strike Burst!"

"I activate the Trap Card Entermate Sky Mantle!" Yusho shouted. "Through its effect, I can send the top card of my Deck to the Graveyard and negate an opponent's attack towards a Spellcaster-type Monster I control!"

"You negated my attack—which is exactly what I was counting upon, Dad!" Yuya let out a sly smirk. "I activate Celestial-Eyes' effect! If this card hasn't declared an attack, I can prevent it from declaring an attack this turn and target a Monster that has already attacked, in this case Odd-Eyes! Then, Odd-Eyes gains 700 attack (Odd-Eyes ATK: 3100→3800) and can attack once again! Take down Radiant Sorcerer, Odd-Eyes! Spiral Strike Burst!"

As Odd-Eyes prepared to attack, Yusho gestured at Seventh Heaven Magician, which brought him at the top of a skyscraper, where an Action Card was located. Yuya wasted no time in activating his rollerblades, using Celestial-Eyes' tail as a makeshift path to sail through the air and land at the top of a bus, where he grabbed the Action Card placed there.

"I activate the Action Spell Overpass!" Yusho declared. "Through its effect, the attacks of our Monsters are switched!"

"Not if I have anything to say about it!" Yuya said. "I activate the Action Spell Miracle Fire, whose effect allows me to copy Overpass's effect! As such, our Monsters' attacks are switched back to normal and Odd-Eyes' attack resumes! Furthermore, thanks to its effect, you'll receive twice the battle damage! Go, Odd-Eyes!"

A raging spiral wave of crimson energy erupted from Odd-Eyes' maw, destroying Radiant Sorcerer and generating a shockwave that threw Yusho off the skyscraper. However, the older Duelist didn't panic one bit, signaling at Seventh Heaven Magician to grab him, with the two of them sailing in the air once more.

Yusho – LP: 2800→600

"He did it!" Melissa cheered alongside the audience. "Yuya deals massive damage to his father after coming on top in the Action Card battle! You really can't predict how this Duel will end! But that's what makes it so enjoyable!"

"I end my turn with that." Yuya said. "Now then, what will your next act be, Dad?"

"I'm thinking of spicing things up a bit with something extra." Yusho smiled. "It's my turn! Draw! I activate the Spell Card Encore Fusion, banishing Entermate Fire Hopper and Entermate Talent Scout from my Graveyard in order to Fusion Summon!"

As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yusho chanted.

"Performer dancing within the inferno! Seeker of hidden prodigies! Become one now to call forth the elusive arcane master from the tranquil depths of the world! Fusion Summon! Appear now, Level 8! Entermate Aqua Magician (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 8)!"

The alluring female Monster clad in intricate navy robes, which held a whip in its hand and was surrounded by orbs of water, appeared on Yusho's field.

"Since I control two "Entermate" Monsters, I can Special Summon this Monster from my hand." Yusho continued. "Come forth, Entermate Titanic Brawler (ATK: 2400/DEF: 2200/LV: 6)!"

Titanic Brawler appeared on Yusho's field between Seventh Heaven Magician and Aqua Magician.

"Now then, time for the climax of this act." Yusho said with a smirk. "I activate the Continuous Spell Card Miracle Sky Road, whose effect allows me to select one Monster on my field and have it attack you directly, with the damage from the battle being halved. Moreover, Seventh Heaven Magician's effect increases its attack by 300 points (Seventh Heaven Magician ATK: 4500→4800) and Aqua Magician's effect increases my Life Points by 300 for every Spellcaster-type Monster I control, meaning I regain 900 Life Points!"

Aqua Magician swung its whip following Yusho's words, releasing a rain of cyan-colored particles that enveloped him.

Yusho – LP: 600→1500

"This isn't good." Amon remarked. "Unless Yuya evades Sakaki Yusho's next attack, this match is finished."

"Before I attack, I will activate Seventh Heaven Magician's effect to destroy your Celestial-Eyes." Yusho pointed at Yuya's dragon. "Do it, Seventh Heaven Magician!"

"That won't work!" Yuya said. "Due to its effect, Celestial-Eyes cannot be destroyed by card effects that designate it as a target!"

"In that case, let's battle!" Yusho exclaimed. "I will use Miracle Sky Road's effect to have Seventh Heaven Magician attack you directly!"

"I won't let the curtain fall so soon!" Yuya shouted as a rainbow-like road extended from Yusho's Spell Card, with Seventh Heaven Magician dashing on it. "Celestial-Eyes' effect activates! By banishing this card, I can reduce one instance of damage to 0!"

A golden barrier appeared around Yuya, blocking Seventh Heaven Magician's attack. Although it shattered under the force of the attack, Yuya remained unharmed.

"Due to Miracle Sky Road's effect, no other Monster I control can attack." Yusho said. "I place two cards face-down and end my turn."

"Celestial-Eyes' effect also activates." Yuya said. "Thanks to it, I can Special Summon it from the banish zone."

A rift in space appeared above Yuya, with Celestial-Eyes emerging from it and flying around the field before coming to hover above Yuya.

"Thanks to the effect of his new dragon, Yuya was able to avoid being defeated!" Nico said. "However, as long as Miracle Sky Road is on the field, he's only one direct attack away from being defeated!"

"It's my turn!" Yuya announced. "Draw! First, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Revive from the Extra Deck, Odd-Eyes Dissolver! And from my hand, come Odd-Eyes Arc Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 2700/DEF: 2000/LV: 7/SC: 8)!"

Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Yuya's Monsters upon landing on his field.

"Since I Pendulum Summoned successfully, Pendulum of Soul gains yet another Soul Counter (Soul Counter: 2→3), meaning my Monsters' attack is raised even further (Celestial-Eyes ATK: 4100→4400, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon ATK: 3100→3400, Odd-Eyes Dissolver ATK: 2000→2900, Arc Pendulum Dragon ATK: 2700→3600)." Yuya continued. "Then, I will use Odd-Eyes Dissolver's effect to perform a Fusion Summon by using it and Arc Pendulum Dragon as materials!"

As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuya chanted.

"Dichromatic eyes that illuminate the dark night! Become one with the dragon swinging across space-time and awaken a new life! Fusion Summon! Emerge now, Level 9! Elusive dragon traversing the vast ocean, Serene-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 3100→4000/DEF: 2600/LV: 9/SC: 7)!"

The dragon with dichromatic eyes clad in light blue-colored armor, which had fins protruding from its body and an oversized tail resembling that of a fish growing from its back, appeared on Yuya's field.

"Serene-Eyes' activates." Yuya declared. "Thanks to it, I—"

"I activate the Trap Card Infinite Transience!" Yusho cut off Yuya. "Thanks to its effect, I can negate your dragon's effects until the end of your turn!"

"Then, I activate Celestial-Eyes' final effect." Yuya stated. "Through it, I can equip it to a Monster I control, in this case Serene-Eyes, and increase its attack by 1500 (Serene-Eyes ATK: 4000→5500). Moreover, Serene-Eyes gains an additional effect from the equipped Celestial-Eyes, namely the ability to banish all Monsters you control with an original attack lower than this card's original attack!"

"That won't happen thanks to Sky Sage's Pendulum Effect." Yusho said. "Once during either player's turn, the first time each "Entermate" Monster would leave my field it doesn't."

"But now, your Monsters are defenseless against my attack, Dad." Yuya pointed out. "As such, it's time to battle! Serene-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, destroy Seventh Heaven Magician! Gigant Arctic Burst!"

"I was hoping I wouldn't resort to this, but there's no choice." Yusho said. "I activate the Trap Card Spell Haste, whose effect allows me to activate a Continuous Spell Card from my hand during my opponent's turn! I choose to activate Magician's Left Hand, and since there are now seven Spell Cards on the field, I can activate Seventh Heaven Magician's final effect! Thanks to it, I can destroy all other cards on the field apart from it! Illusion Break!"

Seventh Heaven Magician slammed its sword-staff on the ground, forming a massive magic circle that enveloped both players' fields. Immediately afterwards, a multi-colored pillar of light shot out of the magic circle, causing all other cards apart from Yusho's Monster to vanish from the field.

"T-This is!" Melissa exclaimed with wide eyes. "Unbelievable! With a single move, Sakaki Yusho wiped both players' field clean! Not only that, but he managed to retain his ace Monster, meaning he has the upper hand now!"

"As expected from the renowned Sakaki Yusho!" Nico announced. "He turned a nigh inescapable pinch into an advantageous situation!"

"Thanks to Seventh Heaven Magician's effect, we both draw a card for every two of our cards that were destroyed by its effect." Yusho continued. "Therefore, we both draw three cards each."

"Since it was destroyed, Celestial-Eyes' effect also activates, allowing me to place it in the Pendulum Zone." Yuya said as Celestial-Eyes rose to the top of the left column of light. "Furthermore, since Acrobat Magician was destroyed while being in the Pendulum Zone, I can Special Summon it. Come, Acrobat Magician in defense mode!"

A portal appeared on Yuya's field, with Acrobat Magician emerging from it.

"I didn't expect such a powerful final effect…" Yuya muttered. "Even so, I won't be stopped here. I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"It's my turn!" Yusho announced. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Sky Gateway, whose effect allows me to Special Summon a Level 7 or lower Spellcaster-type Monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated and its attack increased by 800. I choose to bring back Sky Magician!"

A portal appeared on Yusho's field, with Sky Magician emerging from it and coming to hover next to Seventh Heaven Magician.

(Sky Magician ATK: 2500→3300)

"Next, I activate the Equip Spell Card Wonder Wand, equipping it to Seventh Heaven Magician." Yusho continued. "Thanks to its effect, my Monster's attack increases by 500 points (Seventh Heaven Magician ATK: 3000→3500)."

"Oi, isn't that really bad?" Yugo said. "Yuya's dad has two strong Monsters, while Yuya only has a single defense mode Monster. If this goes through, he's toast."

"Let's trust in Yuya." Rin said. "He must have a plan…probably."

"Battle!" Yusho exclaimed. "Sky Magician, attack Acrobat Magician! Aerial Piercer!"

"I activate the Trap Card Expert Hippo Carnival!" Yuya shouted. "Through its effect, I can release a Monster on my field, in this case Acrobat Magician, in order to Special Summon a number of Hippo Tokens equal to the number of Monsters my opponent controls, in this case two! Come, Hippo Tokens (Earth/Beast/ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 1) in defense mode!"

Acrobat Magician vanished in a puff of smoke, with two hippos dressed in dancer outfits appearing in its place.

"Then, Sky Magician will destroy your first hippo token!" Yusho declared. "Go, Sky Magician!"

Following Yusho's words, Sky Magician shot forward, the lower part of its body rotating like a drill, and pierced through the first token, which vanished in a large explosion.

"Due to Expert Hippo Carnival's effect, whenever a Hippo Token is destroyed, I gain 300 Life Points!"

Yuya was enveloped by a viridian aura after saying so.

Yuya – LP: 900→1200

"Even so, I won't leave you with any resources to exploit." Yusho said. "Seventh Heaven Magician will attack your remaining Hippo Token! Seventh Arc Flash!"

Seventh Heaven Magician's staff was surrounded by a storm of arcane energy as it swung forward, unleashing an energy blast that vaporized Yuya's remaining token. At the same time, Yuya's body was enveloped by a cyan-colored aura.

Yuya – LP: 1200→1500

"With the aid of his tokens, Yuya managed to evade defeat once again!" Nico exclaimed. "However, the advantage is still firmly on Sakaki Yusho's side! Can Yuya overturn the situation once again, or has run out of options!?"

"I guess we'll find out soon." Yusho remarked with a smile. "I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"It's my turn!" Yuya announced. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Space-Time Revision, sending Stargazer Magician and Timegazer Magician from my hand to the Graveyard in order to draw six cards from my Deck. Then, I will place the Scale 2 Entermate Swing Cobra (ATK: 300/DEF: 1800/LV: 4/SC: 2) on my empty Pendulum Zone."

The right column of light appeared once again on Yuya's field, with Swing Cobra rising to its top.

"With my current Pendulum Scale, I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 3 through 9." Yuya declared. "Pendulum Summon! Revive from the Extra Deck, Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, Odd-Eyes Dissolver and Serene-Eyes Pendulum Dragon! And from my hand, come, Entermate Smile Sorcerer (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 8/SC: 1) and Entermate Laugh Maker (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 8/SC: 5)!"

A massive wave of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of five Monsters upon landing on Yuya's field.

"Oh, it's a full field Pendulum Summon!" Melissa announced. "However, all of Yuya's Monsters have lower attack that Sakaki Yusho's Monsters! Let's see what else Yuya has in mind!"

"Since there are three Spell Cards on the field, Seventh Heaven Magician can now use its second effect." Yusho said. "This increases its attack by 300 for every Spell Card on the field (Seventh Heaven Magician ATK: 3500→4400)."

"Thanks to Smile Sorcerer's effect, I can add the Spell Card Smile World from my Deck to my hand." Yuya stated. "Moreover, Serene-Eyes' effect activates, allowing me to gain Life Points by an amount equal to the combined Level of all Monsters my opponent controls multiplied by 300. As such, I will gain 4500 Life Points!"

Yuya was surrounded by a cerulean aura following his words. At the same time, Yusho jumped on one of Sky Magician's rings as the Monster took off in search of Action Cards.

Yuya – LP: 1500→6000

"Since my Life Points are higher than Serene-Eyes' attack, I activate its effect!" Yuya declared as he jumped on his dragon's back, which then started running forward in pursuit of Yusho. "Thanks to it, I can destroy a Monster on my opponent's field whose original attack is equal to or lower than the difference between Serene-Eyes' attack and my Life Points! I will destroy Sky Magician!"

"Not if I can do something about it!" Yusho exclaimed as he jumped from the ring he was holding and landed on a cable, sliding down on it and grabbing the Action Card placed on the edge of the billboard he landed. "I activate the Action Spell Mirror Barrier, using its effect to prevent the destruction of Sky Magician!"

"In that case, I—!" Yuya jumped from his dragon's back and landed on a balcony, grabbing the Action Card there. However, his expression fell upon seeing what it was. "Kuh, this is…the Action Trap Hidden Mine. Due to its effect, I will take 600 points of damage…"

Upon saying that, an explosion enveloped Yuya's body, causing him to grimace.

Yuya – LP: 6000→5400

"Oh, it seems Sakaki Yuya stumbled across an Action Trap!" Nico announced. "How unfortunate! While the Action Trap function had been disabled in the Cross Over Field Spells used by the Lancers, they are a very real danger in normal Action Duels! With a twenty percent chance to encounter one, Duelists should be very careful when going for Action Cards!"

"Hoh, so Action Duels also include cards that penalize you if you're unlucky enough to pick them?" Yuri smirked. "How fascinating. Shame they weren't used in the war. It would have made Duels much more exciting."

"Tch…I'm not done yet!" Yuya said. "I activate the Spell Card Smile World, whose effect—"

"I was waiting for that." Yusho let out a sly smile. "I activate the Counter Trap Card Smile Capture! Through its effect, if my opponent activated Smile World, I can negate its activation! Then, if my opponent controls more Monsters than I do, the attack of all Monsters on my field is doubled (Sky Magician ATK: 3300→6600, Seventh Heaven Magician ATK: 4400→8800)! In exchange, my opponent gets to draw one card from their Deck for every affected Monster!"

"Amazing…" Asuka muttered. "The Principal predicted that Yuya would use Smile World and had a counter ready. Not only that, he also increased his Monsters' attack at the same time."

"This is Sakaki Yusho's Dueling." Reiji remarked as he straightened his glasses. "Turning his opponent's strength into his own and escaping from seemingly inescapable pinches is his forte. However, Yuya isn't the same Duelist that was defeated by me. He seems to have a plan as well."

"I thought there was a chance that Smile World would fail as well." Yuya said while grinning. "While I didn't expect the massive attack increase, it works just fine for me. Using the Level 8 Laugh Maker and Odd-Eyes Dissolver, I construct the Overlay Network!"

As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yuya chanted.

"Untamable wild soul! Reside within the eye of the dragon and rampage to your heart's content! Xyz Summon! Come forth, Rank 8! Proud dragon dancing wildly on the bountiful prairies, Savage-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 3500/DEF: 2500/R: 8/SC: 10/OU: 2)!"

The Monster with dual-colored eyes and dark brown-colored armor enveloping its body, copious amounts of fur extending from the sides of its head, several claw-like protrusions extending from its back and long claws extending from its hands appeared on Yuya's field.

"I activate Savage-Eyes Pendulum Dragon's effect." Yuya declared. "By detaching an Overlay Unit, I can destroy all Monsters on my opponent's field with attack equal to or higher than this Monster's attack. Do it, Savage-Eyes! Subjugation Howling!"

Savage-Eyes opened its maw wide, letting out a piercing howl that shattered all nearby windows and caused numerous cracks to appear on the bodies of Yusho's Monsters. After a few seconds, both Sky Magician and Seventh Heaven Magician exploded, leaving Yusho's field bare.

"Unfortunately, on the turn Savage-Eyes used its effect, I cannot conduct my Battle Phase." Yuya said. "I end my turn with this. How was that, Dad?"

"Now you've done it, Yuya." Yusho smiled. "Well, I expected nothing less from my own son. However, don't write off your old man just yet. I have a couple more tricks up my sleeve. Now then, it's my turn! Draw! I activate the Spell Card Entermate Fundraiser, whose effect allows me to draw a card from my Deck for every Monster my opponent controls and send an equal number of cards from the top of my Deck to the Graveyard if an "Entermate" Monster was destroyed during the previous turn and I control no Monsters. Therefore, I will draw four cards and send four cards from my Deck to the Graveyard. Then, I activate the Spell Card Phantasmagoric Xyz. Thanks to its effect, I can use two Spellcaster-type Monsters in my Graveyard with the same Level in order to perform an Xyz Summon. I Overlay the Level 7 Sky Magician and Sky Dragon!"

As his two Monsters emerged from a fissure on the ground and turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yusho chanted.

"Steadfast master of illusions! Manifest on this vibrant soil and spread the message of hope across the four corners of the Earth! Xyz Summon! Arise now, Rank 7! Entermate Land Magician (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/R: 7/OU: 2)!"

The Monster clad in light brown robes with a tattered cape extending from its neck, which had a drill-shaped lower body and held a halberd-shaped staff, appeared on Yusho's field.

"Land Magician's effect activates, allowing me to add a Spell Card from my Graveyard to my hand." Yusho declared. "I choose the Spell Card Revised Lost Technique and activate it. Through its effect, I can add two Continuous Spell Cards from my Graveyard to my hand since I control a Spellcaster-type Monster and my opponent controls more Monsters than I do. I choose Magician's Cloak and Miracle Sky Road, which I will then activate. Next, I activate the Spell Card Smile World. As for its effect, well, you should be aware of it, right, Yuya?"

Following Yusho's words, a large number of smiling faces that were glowing emerged from the card and covered the entire field. As they touched every Monster on the field, wide smiles appeared on their faces.

(Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon ATK: 2500→3000, Serene-Eyes Pendulum Dragon ATK: 3100→3600, Savage-Eyes Pendulum Dragon ATK: 3500→4000, Smile Sorcerer: 2500→3000, Land Magician ATK: 2500→3000)

"Oh, this time, Sakaki Yusho has used Smile World's effect to great success." Melissa announced. "However, even if he tries to go for a direct attack with Miracle Sky Road's effect, Land Magician's attack is too low to cause significant damage."

"That might true, but slow and steady wins the race." Yusho said. "Plus, I'm not finished just yet. I activate the Spell Card Smile Projection. Through its effect, if I activated Smile World while my opponent controls more Monsters than I do, I can target a Monster on my field and double its attack. However, only that Monster can attack on this turn's Battle Phase. Of course, I choose Land Magician."

An oversized smiley face appeared above the field, landing on Land Magician and enveloping it in a raging multi-colored aura.

(Land Magician ATK: 3000→6000)

"Battle!" Yusho exclaimed. "Through Miracle Sky Road's effect, Land Magician attacks you directly! Demolition Quake!"

"Celestial-Eyes' Pendulum Effect activates!" Yuya bellowed. "Through it, I can halve an instance of damage once per turn!"

"In that case, I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Land Magician's effect!" Yusho declared. "Through it, Celestial-Eyes' Pendulum Effect is negated and your Monster returns back to the Deck! Therefore, my attack resumes!"

Land Magician swung its staff, striking Yuya with it and sending him tumbling backwards as he crashed on the wall behind him.

Yuya – LP: 5400→2400

"Since the Monster affected by Smile Projection's effect inflicted battle damage, I can draw a card from my Deck." Yusho said. "I place a card face-down and end my turn, with Smile World's effect ending (Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon ATK: 3000→2500, Serene-Eyes Pendulum Dragon ATK: 3600→3100, Savage-Eyes Pendulum Dragon ATK: 4000→3500, Smile Sorcerer: 3000→2500, Land Magician ATK: 6000→5500)."

"Damn, Yuya is backed into a corner once again!" Allen cursed. "If he doesn't take down Land Magician, the next direct attack will finish him!"

"That won't easy, since Land Magician cannot be destroyed by battle and Sensei won't take any damage from battles involving it as long as it has Overlay Units." Dennis remarked. "However, I'm not worried. If it's Yuya, he'll definitely find a way to overcome this obstacle as well."

"My turn!" Yuya announced. "Draw! First, I activate the Spell Card Odd-Eyes Gemstone, whose effect allows me to destroy a Level 7 or higher "Odd-Eyes" Monster on my field to draw two cards. I choose to destroy Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon. Then, I will place the Scale 8 Entermate Skullcrobat Joker (ATK: 1800/DEF: 100/LV: 4/SC: 8) in my empty Pendulum Scale!"

The left column of light appeared once again on Yuya's field, with Skullcrobat Joker rising to the top.

"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 3 through 7." Yuya declared. "However, I will be using this Pendulum Scale in a different manner. When Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon is in my Extra Deck or in my Graveyard, I can Pendulum Summon this Monster from my hand as long as I have two cards in my Pendulum Zones by ignoring the Pendulum Scales!"

"Oh, is it coming?" Yuto wondered. "Yuya's evolved dragon?"

"Swing, Pendulum of my Soul!" Yuya exclaimed. "More vividly, more fiercely, transcend the limits and engrave an arc of light across the sky connecting to the future! Overscale Pendulum!"

Following Yuya's words, the massive Pendulum hovering behind him started swinging with greater force, escaping the confines of the pillars of light and drawing arcs across the sky as the Pendulum portal was enlarged while Yuya chanted.

"Let those dual-colored eyes house the ephemeral eternity within them and transform unwavering faith into sublime strength! Come forth now, Level 8! The resolute dragon heralding the arrival of a new era, Transient-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2500/LV: 8/SC: 0)!"

The dragon with gold and white armor attached to its body, mismatched eyes changing color like a kaleidoscope and wings of light extending from its back, appeared on Yuya's field, letting out a sonorous roar.

"This is the best I can do for now." Yuya remarked. "I detach the last Overlay Unit from Savage-Eyes in order to activate its effect! Through it, your Land Magician will be destroyed!"

"Have you forgotten about Magician's Cloak, Yuya?" Yusho said. "Through it, your Monster's effect will be negated and—"

"I haven't forgotten about it, which is why I was prepared!" Yuya exclaimed. "Transient-Eyes' effect activates! Through it, I can negate the activation of an opponent's Spell or Trap Card during either player's turn and destroy it. Extinguish Gaze!"

Waves of light were generated from the dragon's eyes, striking Yusho's Spell Card and causing it to vanish from the field.

"With that, Savage-Eyes' effect resumes." Yuya continued. "Subjugation Howling!"

Savage-Eyes opened its maw wide once again, letting out a piercing roar that destroyed Land Magician.

"It seems Yuya was able to get rid of Sakaki Yusho's troublesome Land Magician!" Melissa announced. "However, thanks to his dragon's effect, he's incapable of entering his Battle Phase once again! You can be sure that Sakaki Yusho will take this opportunity to counterattack during his next turn!"

"And I'll be ready." Yuya said. "I end my turn."

"I'm impressed, Yuya." Yusho smiled while saying so. "I had seen your progress in your Duels, but experiencing it first-hand is quite different. Words alone cannot describe how proud I am. That's why, I'll wring out every last ounce of strength I have left and bear it against you as a sigh of respect towards an equal."

"In that case, I'll take everything you have head-on and prove once and for all that I have surpassed you." Yuya declared. "That will be my gratitude for everything you've taught me."

"That's the spirit." Yusho said. "Then, the climax begins here! My turn! Draw! Since I control no Monsters, I can activate the Spell Card Wonder Star Shower. Through its effect, I will banish Radiant Sorcerer and Titanic Brawler in order to halve the attack of all Monsters you control and negate their effects until the End Phase!"

"Transient-Eyes' effect activates!" Yuya stated. "Through it, the activation of your Spell Card is negated and it's destroyed. But I'm sure you were aiming for that, no?"

"That's right." Yusho confirmed it. "All in order to prepare for my strongest Monster's arrival. I activate the Ritual Spell Card Entermate Ritual, banishing Blaze Magician, Aqua Magician, Seventh Heaven Magician and Sky Magician from my Graveyard through its effect in order to Ritual Summon!"

A colorful altar surrounded by an equally dazzling stage reminiscent of a circus appeared on Yusho's field. As his two Monsters turned into particles and were absorbed by the altar, with a multi-colored blaze erupting from it, Yusho chanted.

"O final hope, open the pathway hidden within the streams of the cosmos through the ritual's call and awaken the primordial warrior resting in the cradle of life! Ritual Summon! Come forth, Level 10! Entermate Quintessence Magician (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 10)!"

The Monster clad in pure white robes with armor pieces made out of crystal attached on its shoulders, forearms and legs, which held a staff with electricity crackling around it, appeared on Yusho's field.

"Quintessence Magician's effect activates." Yusho stated. "This card's attack is equal to the combined Levels and Ranks of the Monsters it used as tributes multiplied by 300. Since the combined Level of my Monsters is 31, my Monster's attack becomes 9300 (Quintessence Magician ATK: 0→9300)!"

"Sakaki Yusho has summoned another powerful Monster!" Nico exclaimed. "Yuya is once again in a huge pinch!"

"Through Miracle Sky Road's effect, Quintessence Magician will attack you directly!" Yusho declared. "Go, Quintessence Magician! Illuminus Fulgora!"

"I activate the effect of Entermate Kuribohrder in my hand!" Yuya shouted. "When I'm about to receive a direct attack, I can Special Summon this card from my hand and change the attack target to it! Come, Entermate Kuribohrder (ATK: 300/DEF: 200/LV: 1)!"

Entermate Kuribohrder emerged on Yuya's field following his words. Immediately afterwards, Quintessence Magician raised its staff high, calling down a massive thunderstorm that struck Yuya's Monster, destroying it.

"Entermate Kuribohrder's effect activates!" Yuya stated. "Any damage I would take from battles involving it is reduced to 0 and I gain that many Life Points instead. As such, I will regain 9000 Life Points!"

Following his words, Yuya was surrounded by a multi-colored aura generated by the spectral image of Entermate Kuribohrder that appeared next to him.

Yuya – LP: 2400→11400

"I'm not finished yet." Yusho smirked. "I activate the Spell Card Performer's Send-Off. This card can be activated if I control a single Spellcaster-type Monster that failed to inflict battle damage on this turn while my opponent controls more Monsters than I do. Through its effect, my opponent selects one of its Monsters. Then, that Monster has its effects negated and all other Monsters on my opponent's field are destroyed while my opponent receives damage equal to their combined original attack. In exchange, I must skip my next Draw Phase and I cannot summon any Monsters during my next turn."

"Kuh, such an overwhelming effect…" Yuya clicked his tongue. "I choose to keep Transient-Eyes on my field."

"Then, it's time for the rest of your Monsters to bid us adieu with a wondrous performance! Ladies and Gentlemen, please enjoy the show to your heart's content!"

Yusho clicked his fingers, with a massive and brightly lit stage appearing on the two players' field. Immediately afterwards, all Monsters jumped on it and started dancing on it, with the audience cheering and clapping at the performance. As the music reached its peak, all Monsters apart from Quintessence Magician and Transient-Eyes turned into orbs of energy that shot in the sky, exploding into numerous fireworks that illuminated the arena. At the same time, Yuya was surrounded by a crimson aura that caused him to wince.

Yuya – LP: 11400→2300

"What a wonderful performance courtesy of Sakaki Yusho!" Nico announced. "However, the grim reality hidden beneath that spectacle is that Sakaki Yuya finds himself in yet another predicament! With most of his Monsters destroyed and his ace having lost its fangs, can he muster his strength for one last comeback or is this is the conclusion!?"

"I guess we'll find out soon enough." Yusho said. "I end my turn."

As Yuya's hand hovered over his Deck, he could feel the gazes of everyone watching the Duel focusing on him. The cards in his hand could not help him, which meant he had to bet everything on his next draw. Despite that, a wide smile could be seen on his face.

"If you want to win, have courage and take a step forward." Yuya said. "That's what you always said, Dad. That's why, I'll take a step forward to victory here and now!"

"Do it, Yuya!" Yusho encouraged his son. "Show me the strength born from your resolve!"

"The fun has just begun!" Yuya announced. "It's my turn! Draw!"

Upon checking his drawn card, Yuya's smile widened as he extended his hand.

"Ladies and Gentlemen!" Yuya exclaimed. "As you can see, once again, I'm one direct attack away from defeat. I'm also facing the renowned former champion's strongest Monster. However, don't despair just yet! The time for a reversal and victory is here!"

"Sakaki Yuya announces his intent to claim victory in this turn!" Nico exclaimed with evident excitement amidst the audience's cheers. "How exciting! Let's see how he intends to pull this off!"

"I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Pendulum Turn." Yuya declared. "Through its effect, I will make Swing Cobra's Scale 8 (Swing Cobra SC: 2→8). Now then, time for the main event. The Monster in my hand can be Special Summoned by sending my Transient-Eyes Pendulum Dragon from the field to the Graveyard and returning two cards from my Pendulum Zone, whose total Scale Value sum is 12 or more, back to my Deck. I will shuffle Swing Cobra and Skullcrobat Joker back to my Deck in order to bring out the final evolution of Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"

As his three Monsters turned into orbs of light, which were absorbed by the enlarged Pendulum portal, Yuya chanted.

"O will of the Supreme King dwelling within me! Become one with the ephemeral dragon of dichromatic eyes to blaze an everlasting trail of light across the vast skies! Come to me, Level 12! The Supreme King Legend Dragon – Nexus-Eyes Pendulum Dragon (ATK: 3500/DEF: 3000/LV: 12/SC: 12)!"

A massive wave of light erupted from the portal, solidifying into the form of the imposing dragon with glowing eyes clad in dark blue armor with star-like patterns on it, which had three horns and two mandibles extending from its head, four oversized wings extending from its back and a massive ring with five large gems embedded on it hovering behind it.

"Yuya has brought out his own most powerful Monster to counter Quintessence Magician!" Melissa exclaimed. "It appears this final clash between the aces will indeed settle everything!"

"This is the deciding moment." Yoko remarked with a serious expression. "Show everyone once and for all that you have stepped out of your father's shadow, Yuya."

"Burn on, Yuya!" Shuzo cheered. "Using your burning youth and hot-blooded passion to overcome Yusho!"

[Go, Yuya-oniichan!]

Ayu, Futoshi and Tatsuya all shouted together.

"I activate Nexus-Eyes Pendulum Dragon's effect!" Yuya continued. "Once per turn, I can increase this card's attack by an amount equal to the attack of all Monsters Special Summoned from the hand and/or Extra Deck on the field apart from itself until the End Phase! Nexus Grasp!"

Nexus-Eyes spread out its wings as streams of energy were released from Quintessence Magician, enveloping the dragon's body.

(Nexus-Eyes ATK: 3500→12800)

"This might be troublesome…!"

Yusho remarked as he jumped on Quintessence Magician's outstretched hand. The Monster then took off, aiming for the tallest skyscraper and the Action Card placed on its top. Yuya wasted no time in having Nexus-Eyes follow after Yusho, with the two Monsters ramming at each other as they started circling the skyscraper. Shortly before reaching the top, the Monsters slammed at each other in a more violent manner, causing the two Duelists to fall off them and land at opposing sides near the top of the skyscraper.

"Let's battle!" Yuya exclaimed as he started running towards the Action Card. "Nexus-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, take down Quintessence Magician! Quintessence Spiral Breath!"

As Nexus-Eyes opened its maw wide, charging its attack, Yuya activated his rollerblades to reach the top faster. However, Yusho took out his staff, shooting out a grappling hook from it that attached itself to the small spire at the top of the skyscraper. Both Duelists reached their target at the same time—but Yusho was a little bit faster as he grabbed the Action Card.

"I activate the Action Spell Big Bang Impact!" Yusho shouted. "Through its effect, I can destroy the opponent's Monster with the highest attack on the field and deal damage to them equal to its Level multiplied by 200!"

"That won't happen!" Yuya declared. "Nexus-Eyes' effect activates! Since it's about to be destroyed by a card effect, I can send a Pendulum Monster from my hand, field Extra Deck or Pendulum Zone to the Graveyard in order to negate its destruction, and then destroy the card that would have destroyed it! I will send Odd-Eyes Pendulum Dragon from my Extra Deck to the Graveyard in order to destroy Big Bang Impact! Archetype Force!"

Nexus-Eyes' body shone as it unleashed a barrage of energy blasts from the ring on its back, striking Big Bang Impact and destroying it.

"Not bad, but I'm not through yet!" Yusho said. "I will banish Entermate Kaleidoscope Wizard (Light/Spellcaster/Effect/ATK: 700/DEF: 1250/LV: 2) in order to target a Spellcaster-type Monster on my field and increase its attack by an amount equal to its Level multiplied by 500 until the End Phase! In exchange, that Monster will lose that much attack from the start until the end of the next turn! Of course, I will target Quintessence Magician for that effect (Quintessence Magician ATK: 9300→14300)!"

"Now Sakaki Yusho's Monster is stronger than Sakaki Yuya's Monster!" Nico shouted. "Has the counterattack failed!?"

"No, because the trump card is always in my hand!" Yuya declared with a smile. "I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Pendulum Dragon Blessing! Through its effect, when a "Pendulum Dragon" Pendulum Monster on my field battles an opponent's Monster, I can banish as many "Pendulum Dragon" Monsters face-up from my Extra Deck as I wish in order to increase that Monster's attack by 1000 for every banished Monster! In addition, the opponent's Monster loses 500 attack for every banished Monster! I will banish Gale-Eyes Pendulum Dragon, Savage-Eyes Pendulum Dragon and Serene-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"

Following Yuya's words, the glowing silhouettes of the aforementioned Monsters appeared next to Nexus-Eyes, releasing multi-colored waves of energy from their mouths that struck Quintessence Magician. At the same time, waves of energy were emitted from their bodies that enveloped Nexus-Eyes.

(Quintessence Magician ATK: 14300→12800, Nexus-Eyes ATK: 12800→15800)

"This is the finale!" Yuya declared. "Go, Nexus-Eyes Pendulum Dragon!"

Nexus-Eyes opened its maw wide, unleashing a multi-colored spiral blast that obliterated Quintessence Magician and sent Yusho flying off the edge of the skyscraper. Nexus-Eyes moved swiftly following Yuya's gesture, grabbing Yusho with its outstretched palm.

Yusho – LP: 1500→0

Yuya: WIN

"It's settled!" Nico shouted as the crowd went wild. "After a fierce battle between father and son, Sakaki Yuya emerges as the victor of this fateful confrontation!"

"Judging from those excited shouts, I'd say everyone is sufficiently pumped up!" Melissa said while Nexus-Eyes flew around the stadium, with the audience cheering even louder when it passed next to them while Yuya and Yusho bowed and waved at them. "I couldn't think of a better way to start this tournament!"

"That boy won." Yoko said with a smile. "Did you get a good look at that, Yusho? That's the strength of our son."

"Uoooohhhhh!" Shuzo shouted with tears streaking down his eyes. "Yuya! I knew You Show's greatest student would rise up to the challenge! I…I'm so proud of my student's growth!"

Eventually, Nexus-Eyes landed, depositing both Yuya and Yusho on the ground before turning into particles of light alongside the Action Field around the two Duelists.

"You did it, Yuya." Yusho rubbed his son's head with a smile on his face. "I expected nothing less from you, my son and my best disciple. The future of Entertainment Dueling is indeed bright if you're the one taking the lead."

"Thanks, Dad." Yuya said. "It…really means a lot when you're saying it. I'll try to live up…no, I'll do my best to leave an even greater legacy than yours behind."

"I can't ask for anything more than that." Yusho said while the rest of the Lancers approached the two Duelists. "Now then, I should be off and you should go back to your friends. The selection is about to begin."

Yuya nodded as he ran to rejoin the Lancers. The first one to greet him was Yukio, who extended his fist, with Yuya bumping it with his own.

"Nice job out there, Entertainment Duelist." Yukio said. "It was very satisfying to see that all these hours spent teaching you about Ritual Summoning paid off in the end. However, don't get complacent. You're still far from my level when it comes to that particular summoning method. Don't neglect your practice or you'll grow dull."

"Got it, Yukio." Yuya smirked. "Sheesh, you're really starting to sound like a teacher…"

"You've done well, Yuya." Gongenzaka patted his friend's back. "Words alone cannot describe how proud I, the man Gongenzaka, am for your success today. You've proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that you're the inheritor of your father's will."

"Congratulations, Yuya." Yuzu said with a radiant smile. "This was a great Duel. I believed that you could surpass your father and defeat him."

"Erm, well… Yeah, thanks, Yuzu…"

A faint blush appeared on Yuya's face as he turned away from Yuzu. At that time, Nico's voice boomed across the stadium once more.

"Now then, it's time to reveal the sixteen Duelists who shall participate in the Maiami Championship! Everyone, please direct your attention to the main monitor!"

Sixteen blank boxes appeared on the large monitor, with the portraits of the Lancers rapidly switching inside them. After several seconds, they stopped shifting, displaying the portraits of sixteen people.

"And there they are, fellows!" Melissa announced. "Our sixteen participants are—Sakaki Yuya, Hiiragi Yuzu, Gongenzaka Noboru, Shiunin Sora, Tachibana Yukio, Hiiragi Serena, Sawatari Shingo, Yugo, Marufuji Ryo, Rin, Yuri, Jack Atlas, Kurosaki Shun, Kurosaki Ruri and Yuto! This seems like an interesting line-up!"

"It's certainly one that promises many exciting Duels!" Nico continued as sixteen small hovercrafts appeared on the sky and landed on the stadium. "Now then, I would ask for the chosen participants to board these hovercrafts and the rest of the Lancers to vacate the stadium."

Everyone did as instructed. Once the chose Duelists were on board, the hovercrafts took off and formed a circle around a section of Maiami City, with each hovercraft being equidistant from one another. At the same time, several Real Solid Vision projectors emerged from the ground and from the sides of buildings.

"First up, let's prepare the stage of battle." Nico said. "Action Field, Wonder Quartet, activate!"

The Real Solid Vision devices initialized following Nico's words, transforming a section of the city into four distinct areas of volcanic, freezing, forest-like and ravaged conditions.

"Just like the previous Maiami Championship, the field has been divided into four different battle areas." Nico started explaining. "However, in order to expedite matters, only one section of the city has been altered instead of its entirety. The match-ups are also entirely to the Duelists' discretion. Their Duel Disks have been updated with a software that tracks the approximate location of every other Duelist participating in the battle."

"Avoiding Duelists until you come across your preferred match-up is a valid strategy, as is forging forward and fighting whoever you encounter in front of you." Melissa continued. "Once two Duelists are in close proximity to one another, their Duel Disks will automatically initiate a Duel that cannot be interrupted by another contestant."

"The victor will have their Duel Disk locked and will be unable to participate in another match until the round is cleared." Nico said. "Of course, this holds true for all rounds."

"And what about Riding Duels, you ask?" Melissa said. "If you're a fan of them like me, then you won't be disappointed. Should one of the participants come across one of the Duelists from the Synchro Dimension, they're obliged to engage in a Riding Duel with them unless both participants agree not to. Moreover, it's possible for two Duelists to engage in a Riding Duel as long as both of them agree to it. The D-Wheels required for the match will be instantly transported to the participants and Riding Duels have been taken into account when preparing the stage for smooth driving for the most part."

"That's about everything the contestants and the audience need to know." Nico said. "As such, it's time to start the festival! Duelists locked in battle!"

"Kicking the earth and dancing in the air alongside their Monsters!"

"They storm through this field!"

[Behold!] The audience all chanted together. [This is the newest and greatest evolution of Dueling! Action—!]

[Duel!]

The sixteen Duelists all shouted together as they started running while the Action Cards scattered across the field.

Card Corner

Entermate Sky Dragon

ATK: 2600, DEF: 2100, LV: 7

Wind/Spellcaster/Effect

Monster Effect: If you control an "Entermate Sky Magician", you can Advance Summon this card with only one tribute. Once per turn, you can increase the ATK of all "Entermate" Monsters on your field by 1000 until the End Phase. Monsters you control cannot attack your opponent directly on the turn you activated this effect. If this card is destroyed by battle, reduce the ATK of the Monster that destroyed it by 1000.

Entermate Inverse Blader

ATK: 0, DEF: 250, LV: 1

Earth/Warrior/Effect

Monster Effect: If this card is used as a tribute or material for the summon of a Pendulum Monster, that Monster gains the following effect; once during either player's turn, when an opponent's Monster loses ATK, you can increase this Monster's ATK by an amount equal to twice the amount of ATK that Monster lost until the End Phase.

Entermate Sky Sage

ATK: 1500, DEF: 2500, LV: 6, SC: 2

Wind/Spellcaster/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: The first time each "Entermate" Monster on your field would leave it (either through battle or card effect), it does not.

Monster Effect: As long as this card remains face-up on the field, you can activate Normal and Continuous Spell Cards from your hand during your opponent's turn as well.

Entermate Beat Minstrel

ATK: 1200, DEF: 1350, LV: 3, SC: 9

Dark/Spellcaster/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: Once per turn, when an "Entermate" Monster on your field declared an attack, but failed to destroy the opponent's Monster, it can attack once again.

Monster Effect: When an "Entermate" Monster on your field declares an attack, increase that Monster's ATK by 300.

Entermate Talent Scout

ATK: 900, DEF: 1300, LV: 3

Dark/Spellcaster/Effect

Monster Effect: You can tribute this Monster; add a Level 8 or lower "Entermate" Spellcaster-type Monster from your Deck to your hand.

Entermate Radiant Sorcerer

ATK: 2700, DEF: 2350, LV: 8

Light/Spellcaster/Effect

Monster Effect: When an "Entermate" Monster you control destroys an opponent's Monster through battle or card effect, you can draw a card from your Deck. You must control another Level 8 or higher "Entermate" Monster to apply this effect.

Entermate Seventh Heaven Magician

ATK: 3000, DEF: 2800, LV: 8

Wind/Spellcaster/Effect

Monster Effect: You can Special Summon this card by releasing an "Entermate Sky Magician" you control. This card gains the following effect according to the number of Spell Cards on both players' fields.

-1+: When this card battles an opponent's Monster, you can negate that Monster's effect.

-3+: This card gains 300 ATK for every Spell Card on the field.

-5+: Once per turn, you can destroy a Monster your opponent controls.

-7+: You can destroy all other cards on the field apart from this card, and then have both players draw a card for every two of their cards that were destroyed. This effect can be activated during either player's turn.

Celestial-Eyes Pendulum Dragon

ATK: 3500, DEF: 3500, LV: 12, SC: 10

Light/Dragon/Ritual/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: Once per turn, you can halve the amount of damage you would take from battle or from an opponent's card effect.

Monster Effect: You can Ritual Summon this card with "Odd-Eyes Advent", but one of the tributes must be a Level 8 or higher "Pendulum Dragon" Monster. This card cannot be destroyed by card effects that designate it as a target. When this card is Ritual Summoned successfully, you can banish all Monsters your opponent controls. During your Battle Phase, if this card hasn't declared an attack, you can target a Monster you control that has already declared an attack; that Monster gains 700 ATK and can declare an attack once again. This card cannot attack on the turn you used this effect. If you would receive damage, you can banish this card to reduce that damage to 0. If you used this effect, Special Summon it during the End Phase. You can equip this card to a Monster you control; increase its ATK by 1500 and have it gain the following effect; once per turn, you can banish all Monsters your opponent controls with original ATK lower than this card's original ATK. If this card is destroyed, you can place it in your Pendulum Zone.

Entermate Kaleidoscope Wizard

ATK: 700, DEF: 1250, LV: 2

Light/Spellcaster/Effect

Monster Effect: You can banish this card from your hand or Graveyard and target a Spellcaster-type Monster on your field; increase its ATK by an amount equal to its Level x 500 until the End Phase. During the start of the next turn, decrease that Monster's ATK by an amount equal to the amount of ATK it gained through this card's effect until that turn's End Phase.

Spectacular Hippo Carnival

Normal Spell Card

You can activate this card if you control an "Entermate Discover Hippo". Special Summon three Hippo Tokens (Earth/Beast/ATK: 800/DEF: 800/LV: 1) on both your field and your opponent's field, and also increase Discover Hippo's DEF by 500. If your opponent uses these Tokens as tributes for an Advance Summon, you can also tribute the same number of tokens to perform an Advance Summon, and then have both players draw a card from their Deck. You can banish this card and an "Entermate Discover Hippo" from your Graveyard in order to negate an opponent's Monster's attack and draw a card from your Deck.

Magician's Cloak

Continuous Spell Card

Once during either player's turn, when your opponent's Monster is about to activate its effect while you control a Spellcaster-type Monster, you can negate the activation of that effect and destroy that Monster.

Twin Lance

Action Spell

All battle damage from battles involving Monsters is doubled for this turn.

Performer's Magic Curtain

Normal Spell Card

Special Summon an "Entermate" Spellcaster-type Monster from your Deck with an equal or lower Level than that of an "Entermate" Spellcaster-type Monster on your field. That Monster cannot attack on the turn it was summoned.

Entermate Pendulum Festival

Normal Spell Card

If your opponent controls a Pendulum Monster and has two Pendulum Monsters in their Pendulum Zones, you can add two "Entermate" Pendulum Monsters from your Deck to your hand.

Even Match

Action Spell

Make one of your Monsters' ATK equal to that of the Monster with the highest ATK on the opponent's field until the End Phase. If your Monster battles that Monster, neither Monster is destroyed.

Odd-Eyes Rhapsody

Normal Spell Card

If you control an "Odd-Eyes" Monster, you can add an "Odd-Eyes" or "Pendulum Dragon" Ritual Monster and a Ritual Spell Card from your Deck to your hand.

Sky Gateway

Normal Spell Card

Target a Level 7 or lower Spellcaster-type Monster in your Graveyard; Special Summon it with its effects negated and its ATK increased by 800.

Entermate Fundraiser

Normal Spell Card

If at least one "Entermate" Monster was destroyed during the previous turn and you control no Monsters, draw a card from your Deck for every Monster your opponent controls. Then, send an equal number of cards from the top of your Deck to the Graveyard.

Phantasmagoric Xyz

Normal Spell Card

Target two Spellcaster-type Monsters in your Graveyard with the same Level; perform an Xyz Summon by using these Monsters alone as materials. If you Xyz Summon a non-Spellcaster-type Monster through this card's effect, that Monster has its effects negated.

Revised Lost Technique

Normal Spell Card

Activate this card if you control a Spellcaster-type Monster while your opponent controls more Monsters than you. Add two Continuous Spell Cards from your Graveyard to your hand.

Smile Projection

Normal Spell Card

If you activated Smile World while your opponent controls more Monsters than you do, you can target a Monster on your field; double its ATK. Only that Monster can attack on this turn's Battle Phase. If the affected Monster inflicts battle damage to your opponent, you can draw a card from your Deck.

Odd-Eyes Gemstone

Normal Spell Card

Destroy a Level 7 or higher "Odd-Eyes" Monster on your field; draw two cards from your Deck.

Wonder Star Shower

Normal Spell Card

Activate this card if you control no Monsters. Banish two Spellcaster-type Monsters from your Graveyard, and then halve the ATK of all Monsters your opponent controls and negate their effects until the End Phase.

Performer's Send-Off

Normal Spell Card

This card can be activated if you only control a single Spellcaster-type Monster that failed to inflict battle damage on this turn while your opponent controls more Monsters than you do. Your opponent selects one of its Monsters. That Monster has its effects negated and all other Monsters on your opponent's field are destroyed while your opponent receives damage equal to their combined original ATK. You must skip your next Draw Phase and you cannot summon any Monsters during your next turn.

Big Bang Impact

Action Spell

Destroy the opponent's Monster with the highest ATK and deal damage to them equal to its Level x 200.

Pendulum Dragon Blessing

Quick-Play Spell Card

When a "Pendulum Dragon" Monster on your field battles an opponent's Monster, you can banish as many "Pendulum Dragon" Pendulum Monsters face-up from your Extra Deck as you wish; increase that Monster's ATK by 1000 and reduce the opponent's Monster's ATK by 500 for every banished Monster.

Sorcerous Storm

Counter Trap Card

If you control a Spellcaster-type Monster, you can send a card from your hand to the Graveyard; negate the activation of an opponent's Spell or Trap Card and destroy it.

Odd-Eyes Reanimation

Normal Trap Card

Activate this card when a Pendulum Monster on your field is destroyed. Special Summon an "Odd-Eyes" or "Pendulum Dragon" Monster face-up from your Extra Deck or Graveyard with a lower Level or Rank than the destroyed Monster. If the Monster summoned by this card's effect is destroyed on the same turn it was summoned, you can banish this card from your Graveyard; Special Summon a Pendulum Monster face-up from your Extra Deck.

Entermate Sky Mantle

Normal Trap Card

Send the top card from your Deck to the Graveyard; negate an attack that targets a Spellcaster-type Monster on your field.

Spell Haste

Normal Trap Card

You can activate a Normal or Continuous Spell Card from your hand during your opponent's turn.

Expert Hippo Carnival

Normal Trap Card

Tribute one Monster on your field; Special Summon a number of Hippo Tokens (Earth/Beast/ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 1) equal to the number of Monsters your opponent controls. If those Tokens are destroyed by battle, gain 300 Life Points. During your End Phase, destroy any remaining tokens and draw a card from your Deck for every destroyed token.

Hidden Mine

Action Trap

Take 600 points of damage.

Smile Capture

Counter Trap Card

If your opponent activates Smile World, you can negate its activation. Then, double the ATK of all Monsters on your field if your opponent controls more Monsters than you do and have your opponent draw a card from their Deck for every affected Monster.

That concludes Chapter 76. Here, I took the chance to fix one of my grievances with Arc-V, namely the fact that we didn't get to see a Duel between Yuya and Yusho, so that the former could show once and for all that he has surpassed his father. Since Yukio settled the score with Reiji in the previous chapter, I thought it was only fitting for Yuya to do the same here with his father.

Furthermore, the sixteen participants of the Maiami Championship have been confirmed. My apologies if a member you wished to be included wasn't, but I assure you the selection process wasn't easy. I wish I could have everyone participate, but then the Championship would become massive and we would definitely be here until next year and beyond.

Well, that's all for now. As always, please read, review, favorite and follow.

See you all next time!