Greetings, community! Dvdryms here with Chapter 77 at last. First, in response to your questions.

—To Guest (1): Odd-Eyes Gravity Dragon might get an upgraded form. I'm still wavering over it.

—To EXECZ: No, there won't be any tag matches in the next chapters. Only one-on-one battles.

—To E.T. 2000: I'm afraid I haven't read The Fifth Circuit. I have too little free time in my hands to read other fanfics unfortunately.

—To Troll Slayer: Serena is still using her Academia-issue Duel Disk. As for Yukio, his Duel Disk is colored silver with a green finish.

—To Anonymously: Yukio reuniting with his old buddies is probably something that will happen towards the end of the story.

—To Guest (2): Thanks for pointing out my mistake in the Leo vs Yukio Duel.

—To Guest (3): Yukio and Serena being interrupted wasn't inspired by any particular scene. However, I might have subconsciously been thinking about the confession between Issei and Rias, hence the similarities.

And now, on with the story!

Chapter 77 – Maiami Championship Preliminaries I

"Dear, dear prey~. Where are you hiding~? Come out, come out wherever you are~."

Yuri spoke with a sing-song voice while walking under the shade of the numerous trees that were characteristic of the jungle area. While several participants would no doubt find this terrain arduous and irritating due to the numerous vines and humidity, it was like a walk in the park for Yuri. The only thing that annoyed him somewhat was the lack of an opponent so far. While his Duel Disk displayed the relative position of his fellow Duelists, their exact whereabouts were hard to discern.

"According to this, at least five other Duelists should be close to me…" Yuri muttered as he stopped to get his bearings and check his Duel Disk. "Of course, that doesn't mean much considering how inaccurate the data is. They could be right next to me or at the other side of the area. I just hope I run into someone soon. Not having Dueled for all these months has almost driven me crazy."

"In that case, your wish will be granted!"

Yuri turned towards the sound of the voice and was mildly surprised to see Sawatari heading towards him while swinging on a vine. In the middle of his arc, the blond-haired young man let the vine go and dropped on the ground, landing in a crouching position as he made a small bow.

"Oh, that was certainly a dynamic entrance." Yuri clapped while grinning. "Quite the energetic fellow, aren't you?"

"Whether it's life or Dueling, I've learned to go all out!" Sawatari said while making a thumbs-up. "That's why I'm going after one of the big fish from the start, in this case, you!"

"Hoh?" Yuri raised an eyebrow. "You'd seek me out willingly…Saruwatari, was it…?"

"It's Sawatari!" The youth shouted with an indignant face. "Remember the name of the ones you fought against at least!"

"My apologies, but I can't recall the names of small fries well." Yuri tapped his head with a smirk. "Your name was among those considered of low threat level in Academia's database, so I didn't pay much attention to you."

"Even though I imagined something like that, it still stings my pride…" Sawatari said with a self-deprecating smile. "However, I'm not the same person I was a year ago. Yuri, I'll change your opinion of me through my Dueling!"

"By all means, please do your best." Yuri said as he activated his Duel Disk. "This is my first Duel after some time, so I expect to be entertained."

"Leave it to me." Sawatari said with a smile. "As an aspiring Entertainment Duelist, I'll give you a show that will rock you to the core!"

[The first Duel of the Maiami Championship is about to begin!] A split screen showing Nico's face on one side and the two Duelists on the other was projected at several giant screens across the city, including ones inside the Action Field, allowing both the Duelists participating and the spectators to observe everything. [Our first participants are our very own Sawatari Shingo and the now defunct Academia's ace, Yuri!]

[Looks like it's going to be a heated match!] Melissa said next to Nico. [Sawatari Shingo is no pushover, but Yuri is an absolute juggernaut when it comes to Dueling with a fearsome reputation that precedes him! Now, let's see what sort of fight these youths will exhibit to us!]

"Sawatari is facing Yuri?" Sora wondered. "I feel sorry for the poor fellow. He's about to get the thrashing of a lifetime."

"Tch, someone else got to Yuri first." Yukio grimaced. "Oh well, for Sawatari's sake, I hope he's brought his A game."

"The stage is set and the audience awaits the fated match with bated breath." Sawatari declared in a grandiose manner. "Now, let the battle begin!"

[Duel!]

Both Duelists shouted together as one.

Yuri – LP: 4000

Sawatari – LP: 4000

"The first move is mine!" Sawatari announced. "Using the Scale 2 Abyss Actor – Sassy Rookie (ATK: 1700/DEF: 1000/LV: 4/SC: 2) and the Scale 8 Abyss Actor – Stage Manager (ATK: 2600/DEF: 1100/LV: 7/SC: 8), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

Two columns of light appeared on Sawatari's sides, with his two Monsters rising to their top.

"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 3 through 7." Sawatari declared. "Shine, o magnificent stage of infinite tales, and weave a new legend! Pendulum Summon! Come forth, my illustrious performers! Abyss Actor – Vagabond Knight (ATK: 1800/DEF: 900/LV: 4/SC: 4) and Abyss Actor – Wild Hope (ATK: 1600/DEF: 1200/LV: 4/SC: 2)!"

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

"Thanks to Stage Manager's Pendulum Effect, all Pendulum Summoned "Abyss Actor" Monsters gain 500 attack (Vagabond Knight ATK: 1800→2300, Wild Hope ATK: 1600→2100)." Sawatari continued. "In addition, Vagabond Knight's effect activates, allowing me to place an "Abyss Actor" Pendulum Monster from my Deck to my Extra Deck face-up. I choose Abyss Actor – Big Star. Then, I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"My turn!" Yuri announced. "Draw! I activate the effect of Predator Plants Icthyobyblis in my hand, Special Summoning it to your field (ATK: 1200/DEF: 0/LV: 3)!"

A fissure appeared on Sawatari's field, with Icthyobyblis jumping out of it and landing next to his other two Monsters.

"Through the effect of Icthyobyblis, I will place a Predator Counter on Vagabond Knight." Yuri said as a fanged spore erupted from his Monster's mouth and latched onto Vagabond Knight's armor. "Next, I summon Predator Plants Stylidium Mantis (ATK: 1400/DEF: 1800/LV: 4)!"

The Monster resembling a cross between a carnivorous plant and a mantis appeared on Yuri's field.

"Since there is a Special Summoned Monster on my opponent's field, I can Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Predator Plants" Monster from my Deck through Stylidium Mantis's effect." Yuri continued. "Appear, Predator Plants Spino Dionaea (ATK: 1800/DEF: 0/LV: 4)!"

Spino Dionaea appeared next to Stylidium Mantis, letting out a piercing screech.

"I activate Spino Dionaea's effect, which allows me to place a Predator Counter on Wild Hope." Yuri stated as a fanged spore shot out of the mouth growing from Spino Dionaea's back and attached itself to Wild Hope. "Now then, let's see if you can withstand my power when I'm getting a little serious. I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Predator Prime Fusion. Through its effect, if I control at least one "Predator Plants" Monster, I can perform a Fusion Summon using Monsters from both sides of the field, including two Dark-attribute Monsters I control. I will fuse Stylidium Mantis, Spino Dionaea and Icthyobyblis!"

As his three Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuri chanted with his hands clasped in front of him.

"Captivating flowers dwelling in the abyss! Join together as one and awaken the savage guardian of the fiendish garden from its slumber! Fusion Summon! Manifest now, Level 9! Predator Plants Triphyovertum (ATK: 3000/DEF: 3000/LV: 9)!"

The Monster resembling a cross between a winged three-headed dragon with four legs and a carnivorous plant appeared on Yuri's field, letting a resonant howl that shook the area and caused a large numbers of leaves to fall from the surrounding trees.

[As expected of Yuri, his opening move involved summoning a powerful Monster from the get-go!] Nico exclaimed. [Sawatari Shingo seems to be in trouble already!]

"Oh, he's about to find out he's in much more trouble than he thinks." Yuri's smile became wider. "Due to its effect, Triphyovertum gains attack equal to the original attack of all Monsters on the field with a Predator Counter. Since both of your Monsters have one, their attack is added to Triphyovertum's attack (Triphyovertum ATK: 3000→6400)."

[Oh, this isn't good!] Melissa said. [It looks like Yuri was aiming for a one-turn kill! If this attack goes through, Sawatari is finished!]

"Battle!" Yuri exclaimed. "Predator Plants Triphyovertum, destroy Abyss Actor – Vagabond Knight! Deception Triad Howl!"

"I won't allow this play to end so soon!" Sawatari declared. "I activate the Trap Card Abyss Actor Insurance! Through its effect, if I control two or more "Abyss Actor" Monsters, I can negate the attack of an opponent's Monster!"

Following Sawatari's words, three massive fireballs erupted from Triphyovertum's mouths, only to smash on a semi-transparent barrier that appeared in front of Sawatari's Monsters.

"Moreover, I can add an "Abyss Actor" Pendulum Monster from my Deck to my Extra Deck face-up thanks to my Trap's effect." Sawatari continued. "I choose Abyss Actor – Shrewd Mentor."

"It looks like Sawatari managed to evade Yuri's attack." Yuya let out a sigh of relief. "I was worried there for a second."

"Well, if you couldn't stop such a simple attack, you would have no business being my opponent." Yuri remarked. "I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"Then, it's time for my counterattack!" Sawatari announced. "My turn! Draw! First, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Join us on the stage from the Extra Deck, Abyss Actor – Big Star (ATK: 2500→3000/DEF: 1800/LV: 7/SC: 3) and Abyss Actor – Shrewd Mentor (Dark/Pendulum/Fiend/Effect/ATK: 2200→2700/DEF: 2400/LV: 6/SC: 1)!"

Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Big Star and a fiendish-looking Monster clad in a rugged cloak that held a staff with the symbol of the Abyss Actor Monsters upon landing on the field.

"I'm afraid that was an unwise move." Yuri remarked. "Triphyovertum's effect activates! When my opponent Special Summons Monsters from their Extra Deck, I can negate that summon and destroy those Monsters!"

"I was prepared for this!" Sawatari declared with a smile. "I will banish Abyss Actor Insurance to activate its final effect! When the summon of "Abyss Actor" Monsters on my field would be negated, I can prevent that negation!"

True enough, a glowing aura surrounded Sawatari's Monsters, preventing the numerous thorns that erupted from Triphyovertum's body from reaching them.

"How was that?" Sawatari said with evident satisfaction. "I did my homework on all you guys properly, you know? Being the mayor's son is a boon in situations like these. I'm familiar with many of your Monsters and the nasty effects they have, which is why I took some measures of my own."

"I'm surprised." Yuri said. "I got the impression you were a hot-headed moron from your profile, but there is actually a functioning brain underneath that idiotic appearance. The world is indeed vast…"

"Don't pull an expression like that of a scholar that has just made a ground-breaking discovery!" Sawatari complained, but then made a sigh. "Damn, I now understand why everyone says you're a pain to deal with… In any case, let's continue. I activate Big Star's effect, which allows me to add an "Abyss Script" Spell Card from my Deck to my hand. I choose the Spell Card Abyss Script – Fantasy Magic and activate it, targeting Big Star for its effect."

Following Sawatari's words, a small book with sinister letters on its cover appeared on Big Star's hands, with the Monster skimming through its contents in a few seconds.

"Next, I activate Shrewd Mentor's effect." Sawatari continued. "Through it, I can place an "Abyss Actor" Monster from my field to my Extra Deck in order to reduce the attack of an opponent's Monster by an amount equal to the targeted Monster's original attack. I choose to place the 1800 attack Vagabond Knight in my Extra Deck, and since it was one of the Monsters that had a Predator Counter on it, your Monster loses even more attack!"

Shrewd Mentor pointed its staff at Triphyovertum as Vagabond Knight turned into a stream of particles that were absorbed by it. Immediately afterwards, Sawatari's Monster unleashed a blast that struck Triphyovertum, causing the Monster to howl in pain.

(Triphyovertum ATK: 6400→2800)

"Now, let's battle!" Sawatari exclaimed. "Big Star, take down Predator Plants Triphyovertum! Moreover, thanks to Fantasy Magic's effect, your Monster will be shuffled back to the Extra Deck!"

Big Star crossed its hands, generating an orb of energy that shot forward and struck Triphyovertum, creating a large explosion that caused Yuri to wince due to the ensuing shockwave.

Yuri – LP: 4000→3800

"Looks like the first blow is mine." Sawatari smirked. "However, we're not done yet! Go, Shrewd Mentor! Attack Yuri directly!"

"I activate the Trap Card Predator Fort." Yuri declared." Through its effect, the damage from your direct attack is reduced to 0 and you can't inflict any further damage to me for this turn. In addition, since a "Predator Plants" Monster was destroyed during this turn, I can draw a card from my Deck."

"It looks like we have a ways to go until the final curtain." Sawatari said. "I end my turn with that."

"It's my turn!" Yuri announced. "Draw! I summon Predator Plants Roridula Wolf (ATK: 1500/DEF: 1400/LV: 4)!"

The Monster resembling a cross between a wolf and a carnivorous plant appeared on Yuri's field.

"Roridula Wolf's effect activates." Yuri continued. "When this card is summoned successfully, I can remove a Predator Counter from a Monster on the field, in this case Wild Hope, in order to Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Predator Plants" Monster from my Deck. Appear, Predator Plants Fly Hell (ATK: 400/DEF: 800/LV: 2)!"

Fly Hell appeared on Yuri's field next to Roridula Wolf.

"I activate Fly Hell's effect, placing a Predator Counter on Wild Hope." Yuri said as a fanged spore shot out of Fly Hell's mouth and embedded itself on Wild Hope. "Next, I activate the Spell Card Cross-Pollination Fusion, whose effect allows me to banish two "Predator Plants" Monsters from my hand or field in order to Fusion Summon two "Predator Plants" Fusion Monsters that can be summoned by using the banished Monsters as materials. I will banish Roridula Wolf and Fly Hell in order to Fusion Summon!"

As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuri chanted with his hands clasped in front of him.

"Fusion Summon! Come to my side, Predator Plants Chimera Rafflesia (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7) and Predator Plants Genlisea Manticore (ATK: 2400/DEF: 1700/LV: 7)!"

Two orbs of light emerged from the multi-colored vortex, transforming into the aforementioned Monsters upon landing on Yuri's field.

[Yuri amps up the pressure by bringing out two Fusion Monsters with a single Fusion card!] Nico exclaimed. [While they are weaker than most of Sawatari Shingo's Monsters, their effects should most likely not be underestimated!]

"If you've studied my Deck, you should be aware of what's coming next, no?" Yuri grinned. "I activate Chimera Rafflesia's effect. Once per turn, I can target a Monster on the field with a Level equal to or lower than this card's Level and banish it. I will banish your Big Star!"

Following Yuri's words, one of Chimera Rafflesia's vines shot forward as the fanged mouth at its end opened wide, consuming Big Star with a single bite.

"Now then, let's battle!" Yuri exclaimed. "Chimera Rafflesia, attack Abyss Actor – Shrewd Mentor! At this moment, Chimera Rafflesia's effect activates, increasing its attack by 1000 and reducing your Monster's attack by 1000 until the end of this turn (Chimera Rafflesia ATK: 2500→3500, Shrewd Mentor ATK: 2700→1700)! Go, Chimera Rafflesia! Blooming Massacre!"

A barrage of spores were shot out of Chimera Rafflesia's central mouth, shredding Shrewd Mentor's body and creating a large explosion that engulfed Sawatari, who let out a cry of pain.

Sawatari – LP: 4000→2200

"Next, Genlisea Manticore will attack Wild Hope!" Yuri shouted. "And since it's battling a Monster with a Predator Counter, Genlisea Manticore's effect activates, reducing your Monster's attack by 300 for every Predator Counter on it (Wild Hope ATK: 2100→1800)! Do it, Genlisea Manticore! Venomous Spike!"

Several spikes were shot out of Genlisea Maticore's scorpion-like tail, piercing through Wild Hope and destroying it, with Sawatari wincing due to one of the spikes hitting his shoulder.

Sawatari – LP: 2200→1600

"Wild Hope's effect activates." Sawatari said. "When this card is destroyed, I can add an "Abyss Actor" Monster from my Deck to my hand. I choose Abyss Actor – Mad Conductor."

"If you think we're done with this, I'm afraid I have to dash your hopes." Yuri smirked. "Due to its effect, Genlisea Manticore can attack a second time during the Battle Phase if I control another "Predator Plants" Monster on the field. Attack him directly and end this, Genlisea Manticore!"

"Not so fast!" Sawatari shouted as he dashed forward and jumped, grabbing one of the lower branches of a nearby tree and using it as a pivot to spin around and launch himself to one of the higher branches through his momentum, where an Action Card was placed. "Jackpot! I activate the Action Spell Wild Law! Through its effect, I can reduce an instance of damage to 0 and have you gain Life Points equal to half the amount of damage I would have received!"

A semi-transparent barrier appeared in front of Sawatari, shielding him from Genlisea Manticore's attack. At the same time, Yuri's body was enveloped by a golden aura.

Yuri – LP: 3800→5000

[Sawatari managed to withstand Yuri's attacks, but has found himself in a difficult situation!] Melissa announced. [Not only does he currently have no Monsters on the field, but his opponent has further increased his Life Points and has two powerful Fusion Monsters on the field! Does Sawatari have a plan to escape from this pinch!?]

"I suppose we'll find out soon enough." Yuri remarked. "I place a card face-down and end my turn, with Chimera Rafflesia's attack returning to normal (Chimera Rafflesia ATK: 3500→2500)."

"It's my turn!" Sawatari announced. "Draw! You roughed me up quite well and took the lead, but now, it's time for the true star to shine once again. First, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Revive from the Extra Deck, Shrewd Mentor, Vagabond Knight and Wild Hope!"

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

"Through Vagabond Knight's effect, I will place Abyss Actor – Majestic Prince from my Deck face-up in my Extra Deck." Sawatari stated. "Then, I summon the Tuner Monster Abyss Actor – Mad Conductor (ATK: 300/DEF: 700/LV: 4/SC: 4)!"

Mad Conductor appeared on Sawatari's field next to his other three Monsters.

"A Tuner Monster…" Yugo muttered. "That guy can Synchro Summon now?"

"I tune the Level 6 Shrewd Mentor with the Level 2 Mad Conductor!" As Shrewd Mentor turned into six stars and Mad Conductor turned into two rings surrounding them, Sawatari chanted. "Ingenious artist spinning sagas of glory and downfall! Appear now on this stage and enchant the masses with your thrilling tales! Synchro Summon! Come forth, Level 8! Abyss Actor – Legendary Playwright (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2300/LV: 8)!"

The Monster dressed in refined, medievalesque clothes, which wore a jester-like mask with the Abyss Actors' symbol on it and held a black tome with a quill on it in its left hand, appeared on Sawatari's field.

[Following a successful Pendulum Summon, Sawatari Shingo continues with an explosive Synchro Summon!] Nico exclaimed. [A fierce counterattack appears to be imminent, so brace yourselves, everyone!]

"I activate Legendary Playwright's effect." Sawatari declared. "Once per turn, I can return any number of "Abyss Actor" cards I control back to my hand in order to return an equal amount of cards from my opponent's field back to their hand. I will return Wild Hope and Vagabond Knight back to my hand in order to return Chimera Rafflesia and your face-down card back to your hand, Yuri! Reshape Script!"

Sawatari's Monster drew its quill and made several slashing motions with it, causing the designated cards to disappear and return to their respective owners' hands.

"Next, I activate the Equip Spell Card Abyss Costume – Demon's Armor, equipping it to Legendary Playwright." Sawatari continued as a sinister armor attached itself to Legendary Playwright's body. "Now, it's time for battle! Legendary Playwright, attack Genlisea Manticore! At this moment, the effect of the equipped Demon's Armor activates, increasing my Monster's attack by an amount equal to the attack of the Monster it's battling until the End Phase (Legendary Playwright ATK: 3000→5400)! Do it, my Monster! First Folio!"

Numerous pages flew out of the heavy tome Legendary Playwright was holding, turning into energy blades which pierced through Genlisea Manticore's body. Immediately afterwards, the Monster exploded, with Yuri being sent skidding backwards due to the shockwave.

Yuri – LP: 5000→2000

"That's the way to go, Sawatari-san!" One of his friends, Kakimoto, cheered. "Keep going like this and crush that guy!"

"Since Genlisea Manticore was destroyed, its effect activates, allowing me to Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Predator Plants" Monster from my Graveyard. Revive, Stylidium Mantis in defense mode!"

A portal appeared on Yuri's field, with Stylidium Mantis emerging from it.

"In addition, Stylidium Mantis's effect activates, allowing me to Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Predator Plants" Monster from my Deck." Yuri continued. "Appear, Predator Plants Sundew Kingii (ATK: 600/DEF: 200/LV: 2) in defense mode!"

Sundew Kingii materialized next to Stylidium Mantis following Yuri's words.

"You're already getting ready for next turn, eh?" Sawatari frowned. "Good for you, but I won't end this act without a final parting shot. Since this is the Main Phase 2, I can activate the Spell Card Abyss Actor Recasting, whose effect allows me to shuffle two "Abyss Actor" Monsters in my hand back to my Deck, and then I can draw four cards. Next, I activate the Spell Card Abyss Actor Nomination, which allows me to Special Summon an "Abyss Actor" Pendulum Monster from my Extra Deck and deal damage to you equal to its Level multiplied by 100. I choose to Special Summon Abyss Actor – Majestic Prince (ATK: 2400/DEF: 2500/LV: 7/SC: 6), meaning you'll receive 700 points of damage!"

Following Sawatari's words, a rift in space appeared above him, with Majestic Prince emerging from it and landing on his field. Then, the Monster pointed at Yuri, unleashing a bolt of lightning that struck the youth and caused him to grimace.

Yuri – LP: 2000→1300

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Sawatari said. "At this moment, Demon Armor's effect ends, returning my Monster's attack to normal (Legendary Playwright ATK: 5400→3000)."

"How interesting." Yuri chuckled. "Despite appearance, you've managed to push me this far. Perhaps I should take this a bit more seriously after all. It's my turn! Draw! Through Sundew Kingii's effect, I will perform a Fusion Summon by using it and Stylidium Mantis as materials in order to bring out my trump card!"

As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuri chanted with his hands clasped in front of him.

"Two beautiful flowers with an insect-alluring fragrance! Now become one, and from the hell beneath your petals, give birth to a new terror! Fusion Summon! Appear, Level 8! The poisonous dragon with hungry fangs, Starve Venom Fusion Dragon (ATK: 2800/DEF: 2000/LV: 8)!"

Starve Venom materialized on Yuri's field, letting out a furious howl.

[It seems Yuri has brought out his ace Monster!] Melissa exclaimed. [This Duel is starting to shift into overdrive! Will Sawatari be able to keep up!?]

"Come on, Sawatari-san!" Yamabe, another one of his friends, shouted. "You can do this! Show everyone how strong you are!"

"Since Starve Venom was summoned while using Monsters on the field, its attack increases by an amount equal to the attack of all Special Summoned Monsters my opponent controls until the End Phase (Starve Venom ATK: 2800→8200)." Yuri stated. "Next, I activate Starve Venom's effect. Through it, I can negate the effect of a Level 5 or higher Monster on my opponent's field and have Starve Venom gain its effect until the End Phase. I think I'll negate the effects of your Legendary Playwright. Essence Leech!"

The protrusions on Starve Venom's back opened, with two fanged mouths shooting forward from them and attached themselves to Majestic Prince, draining its power.

"Now, let's battle!" Yuri exclaimed. "Starve Venom Fusion Dragon, attack Legendary Playwright!"

"That won't work!" Sawatari shouted. "Thanks to Demon's Armor, Legendary Playwright's attack will increase by an amount equal to your Monster's attack (Legendary Playwright ATK: 3000→11200)! In addition, Majestic Prince's effect activates! Thanks to it, since an opponent's Monster declared an attack, Majestic Prince's attack becomes equal to that Monster's attack (Majestic Prince ATK: 2400→8200), while Legendary Playwright gains attack equal to the difference between Majestic Prince's original and current attack (Legendary Playwright ATK: 11200→17000)! Now, destroy yourself!"

"The only one getting destroyed is you." Yuri let out a sly smirk. "I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Spore Bomb, whose effect allows me to destroy a Monster I control! I choose Starve Venom!"

Following Yuri's words, several cracks appeared on Starve Venom's body, with the dragon exploding shortly afterwards.

"Since it was destroyed, Starve Venom's effect activates." Yuri continued. "Through it, I will destroy all Special Summoned Monsters you control and inflict damage to you equal to their total attack on the field!"

"I activate the Counter Trap Card Abyss Horizon!" Sawatari shouted as his Monsters were engulfed by the explosion that destroyed Starve Venom. "Through its effect, if a Dark-attribute Monster left the field this turn, I can reduce an instance of damage to 0 and add a Dark-attribute Monster from my Deck to my hand! I choose Abyss Actor – Dashing Rogue!"

A purple energy dome appeared around Sawatari following his words, shielding him from the explosion.

"In addition, the destroyed Legendary Playwright's effect activates, allowing me to add two "Abyss Actor" Pendulum Monsters from my Deck to my hand." Sawatari stated. "I choose Abyss Actor – Devil Heel and Abyss Actor – Scale Creator. How was that, Yuri? Have you perhaps revised your opinion even further now that I've taken down your ace Monster as well?"

"Don't be so hasty." Yuri said. "I place a card face-down and end my turn. At this moment, Spore Bomb's effect activates, Special Summoning the Monster that was destroyed by its effect. Moreover, if the Special Summoned Monster is a Fusion Monster that was Fusion Summoned this turn, it gains 600 attack for every Monster used to Fusion Summon it. Revive, Starve Venom Fusion Dragon!"

A dimensional rift appeared above Yuri, with Starve Venom exiting from it and landing on his field.

(Starve Venom ATK: 2800→4000)

"Geh, it came back even stronger than before…" Sawatari grimaced, but then smiled. "In that case, I guess I'll redouble my efforts to take it down! My turn! Draw! I activate the effect of Abyss Actor – Scale Creator (Dark/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 400/DEF: 700/LV: 1/SC: 6) in my hand, discarding in order to increase the Scale Value of an "Abyss Actor" Pendulum Monster in my Pendulum Zone by 2. I choose to increase Stage Manager's Scale Value (Stage Manager SC: 8→10). Then, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Come from my hand, Abyss Actor – Devil Heel (ATK: 3000→3500/DEF: 2000/LV: 8/SC: 1)! And from the Extra Deck, revive, Vagabond Knight, Wild Hope, Shrewd Mentor and Majestic Prince!"

A massive wave of energy erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the form of five Monsters upon landing on Sawatari's field.

[Sawatari Shingo has performed a full field Pendulum Summon!] Nico announced with enthusiasm. [While Yuri's Starve Venom Fusion Dragon is stronger, this mighty formation is not to be underestimated!]

"Vagabond Knight's effect activates, allowing me to place Abyss Actor – Dark Seductress from my Deck face-up in my Extra Deck." Sawatari continued. "Next, I activate Devil Heel's effect, which allows me to reduce a Monster's attack by 1000 for every "Abyss Actor" Monster I control. I choose to reduce Starve Venom's attack. Abyss Press!"

Two oversized spectral hands appeared next to Starve Venom, trapping the dragon in a powerful grip and forcing it on its knees as they squeezed it.

(Starve Venom ATK: 4000→0)

"Now then, time for one of my special moves." Sawatari grinned. "I activate the Spell Card Abyss Script – Abyss Ritual, offering Vagabond Knight and Wild Hope as tributes in order to Ritual Summon!"

A demonic-looking altar surrounded by a small amphitheater appeared on Sawatari's field, with his two Monsters turning into particles and being absorbed by it. As a towering blaze erupted from the altar, Sawatari chanted.

"Mischievous outlaw pursing everlasting freedom! Emerge from the pages of history and travel across the path towards the endless dream! Ritual Summon! Appear now, Level 8! Abyss Actor – Dashing Rogue (ATK: 2900/DEF: 2700/LV: 8)!"

The Monster reminiscent of a cowboy wielding two pistols with blades attached to them, which was clad in a purple and green hat with the Abyss Actors' symbol on it, a crimson and blue mask, a purple cape and a black coat, appeared on Sawatari's field.

"A Ritual Monster?" Yukio chuckled. "Looks like Sawatari learned some new tricks while I wasn't looking. Not bad."

"I activate Dashing Rogue's effect, banishing Fantasy Magic from my Graveyard in order to destroy your face-down card." Sawatari declared as Dashing Rogue swung one of its pistols, releasing an energy wave that cut Yuri's face-down card in half. "Next, I activate the Field Spell Card Abyss Stage – Royal Theater, with its effect allowing me to add Abyss Actor – Wise Magician (Dark/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 2000/DEF: 1600/LV: 5/SC: 2) from my Deck to my hand. Now, let's battle! Devil Heel, destroy Starve Venom Fusion Dragon and end this!"

"This might be a bit troublesome…"

Yuri remarked so as he jumped on Starve Venom's outstretched hand, with the dragon tossing him upwards. Thanks to the boost he received, Yuri was able to reach the top of a tree, where an Action Card was placed. Upon grabbing it, he smirked.

"Not exactly ideal, but it works for me. I activate the Action Trap Hell Pit. Through its effect, a Monster on my field is destroyed and I take 500 points of damage. I will destroy Starve Venom, which means its effect activates, allowing me to destroy all Special Summoned Monsters on my opponent's field.

Starve Venom's body exploded once again as Yuri grimaced due to the shockwave.

Yuri – LP: 1300→800

"Royal Theater's effect activates, which allows me to prevent the destruction of an "Abyss Actor" Monster, in this case Devil Heel, once per turn!" Sawatari declared. "Moreover, I send Wise Magician from my hand to the Graveyard to activate its effect! Through it, an effect that affects an "Abyss Actor" Monster on my field affects all other "Abyss Actor" Monsters on my field as well! Therefore, none of my Monsters are destroyed and Devil Heel's attack resumes! Only this time, it will attack you directly!"

"In that case, I will send Predator Plants Pterostylis Armadillo from my hand to the Graveyard to reduce the damage from your direct attack to 0 and place a Predator Counter on Devil Heel!" Yuri exclaimed as Pterostylis Armadillo's ghostly figure shielded him from Devil Heel's attack, with a fanged spore attaching itself to Devil Heel's body afterwards. "Moreover, you cannot attack me directly for the rest of this turn."

"Looks like we'll have to postpone the finale once again." Sawatari remarked. "It can't be helped. I end my turn with this."

"It's my turn!" Yuri announced. "Draw! I summon Predator Plants Moraeapteryx (ATK: 1000/DEF: 800/LV: 3)!"

The Monster resembling a cross between a beetle and a carnivorous plant appeared on Yuri's field.

"Moraeapteryx's effect activates." Yuri declareded. "When this card is summoned successfully, I can Special Summon a Dark-attribute Fusion Monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated if my opponent controls a Monster that was Special Summoned from the Extra Deck. Revive, Starve Venom Fusion Dragon!"

Several vines erupted from Moraeapteryx's back, burrowing into the ground and dragging Starve Venom out as they retracted.

"Moraeapteryx's effect doesn't end here." Yuri smirked. "Once the Fusion Monster is Special Summoned successfully, I can use it and Moraeapteryx as materials in order to perform a Fusion Summon while also increasing the summoned Fusion Monster's attack by an amount equal to Moraeapteryx's attack!"

As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuri chanted with his hands clasped in front of him.

"Poisonous dragon with hungry fangs! Sweet-smelling flower that invites the abyss! Now become one, and indulge in whatever pleases you! Fusion Summon! Come forth, Level 10! Greedy Venom Fusion Dragon (ATK: 3300→4300/DEF: 2500/LV: 10)!"

The evolved form of Starve Venom appeared on Yuri's field, letting out a furious roar.

"You should feel honored, Sawatari Shingo." Yuri stated with a smirk. "I've decided that you're worthy enough to perish at the hands of my dragon's upgraded form. That's a privilege few have attained."

"That's a nasty honor…" Sawatari let out a lopsided smile. "However, don't go thinking you've won just yet. I activate Abyss Actor – Wise Magician's effect in my Graveyard. By banishing this card, I can negate the effects of a Monster on my opponent's field. Of course, I'll negate Greedy Venom's effects!"

"You seek to restrict me?" Yuri said. "A valiant effort, but ultimately pointless. I may not be able to take you down this turn, but I'll demolish your formation at least. I activate the Spell Card Wrath Blaze, whose effect allows me to destroy all Spell and Trap Cards my opponent controls if I control a Level 8 or higher Dark-attribute Fusion Monster and draw cards from my Deck equal to the number of destroyed cards minus one, in this case two."

Following Yuri's words, Greedy Venom opened its maw wide, unleashing a torrent of black flames that consumed Sawatari's Pendulum cards and his Field Spell.

"Next is this one." Yuri smirked. "I activate the Spell Card Hunter Instinct. Through its effect, I can target a Monster on my field and have it attack all Monsters my opponent control once each and make them unable to activate their effects. However, my opponent receives no battle damage, no other Monster can attack and all other Monsters on my field are destroyed during the Battle Phase's end."

"This will leave me wide open!" Sawatari clicked his tongue as he grabbed on a vine and swung over the nearby river, landing on a rock in the middle of it and grabbing an Action Card. "Excellent! I activate the Action Spell Battle Lock, which prevents your Monsters from declaring an attack for this turn!"

"Not if I have anything to say about it." Yuri let out a sly smile as he waved an Action Card he had also grabbed at the same time. "I activate the Action Spell No Action, negating the effects of your Action Card. As such, my attack continues. Do it, Greedy Venom Fusion Dragon! Disintegration Stream of Avarice!"

A massive violet blast erupted from Greedy Venom's maw, vaporizing all of Sawatari's four Monsters with ease.

"During the Battle Phase's end, the effect of Hunter Instinct activates." Yuri stated. "However, since I control no other Monsters, it won't destroy anything. I end my turn, with Hunter Instinct's final effect increasing my Monster's attack by 300 for every Monster it destroyed. As such, Greedy Venom gains 1200 attack (Greedy Venom ATK: 4300→5500)."

[Looks like Sawatari Shingo has found himself in a massive pinch!] Melissa exclaimed. [With no cards on his field and zero cards in his hand, is there any way for him to turn things around and cinch victory!? Or is the end of the line for him!?]

"End?" Sawatari smiled. "No, this is the start of the climax! Time to finish this show with a bang! My turn! Draw!"

"You intend to settle things this turn?" Yuri wondered. "However, what can you do with a single card in your hand and an empty field?"

"It's true that I can't do much with what I have now." Sawatari admitted, and then smirked. "However, that's why the great me prepared something in advance during the previous turn. I activate the effect of Abyss Actor – Dark Seductress (Dark/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 600/DEF: 1050/LV: 2) in my Extra Deck. By banishing this card, I can add a Spell Card that has the words "Abyss Actor" in its card text from my Deck to my hand. I choose the Spell Card Showtime Fusion and activate it, banishing Stage Manager and Majestic Prince from my Extra Deck in order to Fusion Summon!"

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

"Peerless talents performing on the netherworld's stage! Manifest now as the hand of destiny, and set the epilogue of this tale with your almighty authority! Fusion Summon! Descend now, Level 9! Abyss Actor – Deus Ex Machina (Dark/Fiend/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 3200/DEF: 3000/LV: 9)!"

A towering figure clad in an ornate gold robe with the Abyss Actor symbol sewn on it, which wore an oversized Greek theater mask and had two mechanical wings growing from its back, appeared on Sawatari's field, letting out an eerie glow.

[Oh my, what a shocking development!] Nico exclaimed. [Despite his apparent lack of resources, Sawatari Shingo successfully brought out a powerful Fusion Monster! Could this be the move that will settle things!?]

"That's our Sawatari-san!" Ootobe cheered. "I knew he would find a way out of this tight spot and claim victory! Go, Sawatari-san!"

"I activate Deus Ex Machina's effect." Sawatari declared. "Once per turn, I can shuffle a face-up "Abyss Actor" Pendulum Monster from my Extra Deck back to my Deck in order to increase my Monster's attack by an amount equal to half the returned Monster's attack. I choose to shuffle the 3000 attack Devil Heel back to my Deck (Deus Ex Machina ATK: 3200→4700)."

"Even so, my Greedy Venom's attack is still higher." Yuri pointed out. "Your Monster can't destroy it."

"Let's see if you'll be singing the same tune after this." Sawatari smirked. "I activate Deus Ex Machina's second effect. Once per turn, I can declare a summoning type. Then, until the start of my next turn, all Monsters my opponent has with that summoning type can't activate their effects on the field and in the Graveyard, and their attack returns to its normal value. Moreover, until the start of my next turn, Monsters of that type cannot be summoned by either player. I declare Fusion, meaning Greedy Venom's effects are negated and its attack returns to its normal value (Greedy Venom ATK: 5500→3300)."

"With this, Fusion Monsters are completely unusable, meaning the backbone of Yuri's tactics has been shattered." Gongenzaka remarked. "You summoned one fearsome Monster, Sawatari. If used correctly, it can potentially lock down any opponent."

"This is the end, Yuri!" Sawatari exclaimed. "Battle! Deus Ex Machina, destroy Greedy Venom Fusion Dragon! Tragodia Katharsis!"

"I activate the effect of Pterostylis Armadillo in my Graveyard!" Yuri shouted. "When I would take damage from a battle involving a Dark-attribute Monster I control, I can banish this card from my Graveyard in order to reduce that damage to 0 and gain Life Points equal to the amount of damage I would have received!"

Following Yuri's words, Deus Ex Machina crossed its hands together, unleashing a beam of light that pierced through Greedy Venom's torso and destroyed it. At the same time, a viridian-colored aura enveloped Yuri as the specter of Pterostylis Armadillo shielding him from the explosion and its aftershocks.

Yuri – LP: 800→2200

"This didn't work as I intended either, eh…?" Sawatari sighed. "Even so, I at least took down your dragon and sealed your Fusion Summon. I'd call this a success. I end my turn with that."

[The situation has shifted once again!] Melissa announced. [While Sawatari was at a disadvantage, he splendidly turned the tables around and cornered Yuri instead! Will he be able to counterattack with his Fusion Summon sealed and his field empty!?]

"I never expected you'd get this far." Yuri said. "I'll acknowledge that you're stronger than I first thought. However…yes, it really is a pity."

"A pity?" Sawatari raised an eyebrow. "Are you talking about your impending defeat because you took me too lightly?"

"No, I'm taking about the fact that I have to reveal my hand at such an early stage." Yuri responded. "I was hoping to save this for later, but it can't be helped. It's not worth it if I lose the Duel after all. Now, it's my turn! Draw! I summon Predator Plants Ophrys Scorpio (ATK: 1200/DEF: 800/LV: 3)!"

The Monster resembling a cross between a carnivorous plant and a scorpion appeared on Yuri's field.

"I activate Ophrys Scorpio's effect, discarding Predator Plants Cordyceps from my hand in order to Special Summon a Level 3 or lower "Predator" Plants Monster from my Deck." Yuri continued. "Come, Predator Plants Lilyzard (ATK: 1200/DEF: 1200/LV: 3)!"

Lilyzard appeared on Yuri's field next to Ophrys Scorpio.

"Two Level 3 Monsters…" Sawatari muttered, and then his eyes opened wide. "It can't be!"

"Oh, but it can." Yuri grinned. "I Overlay the Level 3 Ophrys Scorpio and Lilyzard!"

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

"Dreadful beast dashing in the starless night that bodes death! Let your savage howl herald the start of the Wild Hunt! Xyz Summon! Appear now, Rank 3! Predator Plants Kadupul Cusith (Dark/Plant/Xyz/Effect/ATK: 2000/DEF: 1200/R: 3/OU: 2)!"

A Monster resembling a large dog with fur made of white flowers, which had several vines with sickles on their end growing from its body, appeared on Yuri's field, letting out a resounding howl.

"Xyz Summon…" Ryo muttered upon seeing this. "It looks like Yuri has managed to acquire this summoning method as well. How interesting."

"I detach both Overlay Units from Kadupul Cusith in order to activate its effect." Yuri announced. "Through it, I will place a Predator Counter on Deus Ex Machina for every Overlay Unit I detached, in this case two."

Two fanged spores shot out of Kadupul Cusith's mouth, embedding themselves into Deus Ex Machina.

"Let's settle this, Sawatari Shingo." Yuri stated. "Battle! Predator Plants Kadupul Cusith, attack Abyss Actor – Deus Ex Machina! At this moment, Kadupul Cusith's effect activates! Once per turn, when a "Predator Plants" Monster I control attack a Monster with Predator Counters on it, I can banish a Monster from my Graveyard for every Predator Counter on it and reduce that Monster's attack by an amount equal to the combined attack of the banished Monsters. Since there are two Predator Counters on Deus Ex Machina, I will banish Starve Venom and Greedy Venom to reduce your Monster's attack to 0 (Deus Ex Machina ATK: 4700→0)! Finish it, Kadupul Cusith! Ill Omen Slash!"

Kadupul Cusith's claws were surrounded by a stream of energy as it jumped at Deus Ex Machina, slashing it into pieces and generating an explosion that engulfed Sawatari, sending him tumbling backwards and crashing into a nearby tree.

Sawatari – LP: 1600→0

Yuri: WIN

[It's settled with this, everyone!] Nico announced as the crowd cheered. [The winner of the first Duel in the Maiami Championship after yet another unexpected reversal is Yuri! Give a warm round of applause to both Duelists that gave it their all in this fight!]

"Ow, ow, ow…" Sawatari grimaced as he stood up while grasping his side. "Damn, I really have rotten luck when it comes to Xyz Monsters. Definitely should look into that for the next time."

"Hoh, so you intend to fight me again?" Yuri raised an eyebrow. "Even though you were defeated by me?"

"Huh?" Sawatari wondered. "What are you talking about? Of course I intend to fight you again. Next time, I'll have grown even stronger than I was right now and take you down for sure."

"Is this what they call a 'rival'?" Yuri said. "It's something I'm not used to. After all, most people would be too terrified to Duel me again after losing once to me. I thought only my alter egos and Ryo-senpai would have the resolve to face me again over and over…"

"I can't speak for others, but Sawatari Shingo will always aim for the top no matter what." Sawatari declared with a proud expression. "As one who stands in my way, I'll challenge you however many times it takes until I finally surpass you!"

"…I'm learning a lot of new things by being with you people." Yuri said with a small smile. "Yes, having a rivalry with a person who grows even stronger each time in order to overcome me is something wonderful. Much better than leaving a trail of carded people in my wake."

"We can both agree on that." Sawatari said as a hoverplane approached the two Duelists from above. "It looks like my ride is here. I wish you luck in the rest of the tournament."

After Sawatari boarded the hoverplane, Yuri turned his sights at his Duel Disk.

"Locked until the best eight are decided, eh?" Yuri remarked. "Not much choice then. I'll just relax until the appropriate time."

After saying so, Yuri sat underneath one of the trees and turned his gaze to one of the holographic scenes, waiting for the start of the next Duel.

Meanwhile, at the Iceberg Area…

"Seriously, why did I have to end up in this rotten field again? This is the worst…"

Yuzu complained while shivering from the cold as she walked in a slow manner, making sure not to slip. Out of the four battle areas, she hated this one the most. Not only was the cold getting to her, it also reminded her of the time she was chased by Yuri, which wasn't exactly one of her most pleasant memories. And speaking of Yuri…

"As expected, Yuri defeated Sawatari and advanced to the next round." Yuzu remarked. "Although it was the most likely result, Sawatari still gave it his all. He's really come a long way from the time he stole Yuya's Pendulum cards."

"I'll say. Standing up to Yuri for as long as he did is no small feat."

"I was hoping I'd run into you." Yuzu smiled as she turned her gaze to the person who has spoken. That individual was Sora, who was sitting on a nearby rock and licking a lollipop. "My Duel Disk showed your signal was close, but I couldn't tell how close exactly."

"Same here, but we found each other in the end, so it all worked out." Sora said as he pointed his lollipop at Yuzu with a grin. "I shouldn't have to explain why I sought you out, right?"

"No, this Duel has been a long time coming." Yuzu said as she activated her Duel Disk. "Sora…I'm really grateful to you. Because of you, I was able to take my first step forward in the wide world of Dueling. That's why, today, I will show my appreciation for everything you've done by defeating you!"

"Nice fighting spirit!" Sora said as he jumped from the rock as he pulled another lollipop from his pocket and started licking it. "However, it won't be so easy to surpass me when it comes to Fusion. I'll show you that your master has several tricks up his sleeve he's yet to show you~."

[It looks like the pair for the next Duel has been decided!] Nico exclaimed. [From the Pendulum Dimension, it's You Show Duel School's Hiiragi Yuzu! And her opponent is none other than former Academia agent turned Lancer, Shiunin Sora! We can certainly expect another exciting Duel from these two!]

[My apologies to Shiunin Sora, but I'll be cheering for the adorable Yuzu-chan once again!] Melissa said. [Do your best, Yuzu-chan!]

"Uooooohhhh, Yuzu!" Shuzo yelled as he shot up, scaring some of the people sitting near his group. "Fight! Fight! Use your hot-blooded attitude and burn like a star!"

"Go, Yuzu-oneechan!" Ayu cheered. "And do your best too, Sora!"

"A match-up between members of You Show is about to begin." Futoshi said. "The thought alone is giving me the shivers~!"

"Sora is strong, but Yuzu-oneechan has been practicing like crazy in her free time as well." Tatsuya remarked. "She won't make it easy for him, that's for sure."

[The audience seems to be anxious, so let's not keep them waiting any longer!] Nico shouted. [Maiami Championship Preliminary Round, second match, start!]

[Duel!]

Both Yuzu and Sora shouted together as they activated their Duel Disks.

Yuzu – LP: 4000

Sora – LP: 4000

"The first turn is mine!" Yuzu announced. "I activate the Spell Card 1st Movement Solo, whose effect allows me to Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Melodious" Monster from my hand. Come, Rondo the Melodious Songstress (ATK: 700/DEF: 1800/LV: 4)!"

Rondo appeared on Yuzu's field amidst a rain of petals.

"Rondo's effect activates, allowing me to Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Melodious" Monster from my Deck since it was Special Summoned." Yuzu continued. "Join us on the stage, Hymn the Melodious Songstress (ATK: 1500/DEF: 1700/LV: 4)!"

A portal appeared above Yuzu, with Hymn emerging from it and landing on her field.

"I activate Hymn's effect, banishing it and Rondo to perform a Fusion Summon!" As her two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuzu chanted. "Sacred Melody! Vivacious melody! With the guidance of the baton, gather your power! Fusion Summon! Now come to the stage, Level 6! Meisterin Chopin the Melodious Maestra (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1800/LV: 6) in defense mode!"

The female Monster clad in a dress resembling a camellia flower with musical notes inscribed on it and holding a golden book in its hands appeared on Yuzu's field.

"Since Rondo was used as material for a Fusion Summon, I can draw cards from my Deck equal to the number of other Fusion Materials used for that Fusion Summon, in this case one." Yuzu continued. "Next, I activate Meisterin Chopin's effect. Once per turn, I can Special Summon a "Melodious" Monster from my Deck with a lower Level than it. Appear, Sonata the Melodious Diva (ATK: 1200/DEF: 1000/LV: 3)!"

Chopin opened its book following Yuzu's words, with Sonata emerging from its pages alongside a stream of notes.

"We're not done yet." Yuzu said. "I summon Mordent the Melodious Diva (ATK: 500/DEF: 1300/LV: 3)!"

Mordent appeared on Yuzu's field next to her other two Monsters.

"Since it was summoned successfully, Mordent's effect activates, allowing me to add a "Fusion" Spell Card from my Deck to my hand." Yuzu declared. "I will add Harmonic Fusion from my Deck to my hand and activate it, using Soprano and Mordent as materials in order to Fusion Summon!"

As her two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuzu chanted for the second time.

"Flowing melody! High-pitched melodious voice! With guidance of the baton, gather your power! Fusion Summon! Now, come to the stage, Level 6! Meisterin Schubert the Melodious Maestra (ATK: 2400/DEF: 2000/LV: 6)!"

The female figure dressed in a flower-shaped dress and holding a sword-shaped baton appeared on Yuzu's field.

"Due to the effect of Harmonic Fusion, Meisterin Schubert gains 200 attack for every material used to Fusion Summon it." Yuzu said. "As such, its attack raises by 400 (Meisterin Schubert ATK: 2400→2800). I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"That was a good opening move." Asuka remarked. "Now then, let's see how Sora will respond to this…"

"My turn!" Sora announced. "Draw! Just like you learned from me, I also learned several things from you guys. That's why, I'll also use everything I've got in order to defeat you, my disciple. Using the Scale 1 Edge Imp Cotton Eater (ATK: 2400/DEF: 1600/LV: 5/SC: 1) and the Scale 8 Furnimal Angel (ATK: 600/DEF: 1200/LV: 2/SC: 8), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

Two columns of light appeared on Sora's field, with his Monsters rising to their top.

"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 2 through 7." Sora declared. "Pendulum Summon! Come to my side, Furnimal Dog (ATK: 1700/DEF: 1000/LV: 4) and Furnimal Owl (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1000/LV: 2)!"

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

"Furnimal Dog and Furnimal Owl's effects activates, allowing me to add Edge Imp Scissors (ATK: 1200/DEF: 800/LV: 3) and the Spell Card Fusion from my Deck to my hand." Sora continued. "Next, I will release Furnimal Dog and Furnimal Owl in order to Advance Summon! Appear, Death-Toy Meister (Dark/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 8/SC: 4)!"

A small, puppet-like Monster with a skull mask and a light blue cloak covering it appeared on Sora's field.

"I activate Death-Toy Meister's effect, which allows me to Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Edge Imp", "Furnimal" or "Death-Toy" Monster from my Deck." Sora stated. "Come on out, Edge Imp Tomahawk (ATK: 1800/DEF: 800/LV: 4)!"

The Monster resembling a demonic tomahawk appeared on Sora's field.

"I activate Edge Imp Tomahawk's effect." Sora continued. "By discarding Edge Imp Scissors, I will deal 800 points of damage to you, Yuzu!"

Several blades shot out of Edge Imp Tomahawk following Sora's words, striking Yuzu and causing her to cry out in pain.

"Next, I activate Furnimal Angel's Pendulum Effect." Sora said. "Through it, once per turn, I can Special Summon a "Furnimal" or "Edge Imp" Monster from my Graveyard. Revive, Furnimal Dog!"

A portal appeared on Sora's field, with Furnimal Dog emerging from it.

"I activate the Spell Card Fusion, using Furnimal Dog and Edge Imp Tomahawk as materials in order to Fusion Summon!" As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Sora chanted. "Demonic claws! Become one with the loyal watchman in this mystical whirlpool and show us your new form! Fusion Summon! Appear, Level 8! Demon-possessed toy arising from the pits of Hell, Death-Toy Daredevil (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2200/LV: 8)!"

The plush toy resembling a red and black winged demon that held a trident in its left hand appeared on Sora's field.

"Due to Cotton Eater's Pendulum Effect, I can draw a card from my Deck if I Fusion Summoned a "Death-Toy" Fusion Monster once per turn, while all Fusion Monsters I control gain 300 attack (Death-Toy Daredevil ATK: 3000→3300)." Sora said. "Next, I activate the Spell Card Death-Toy Emergency Recall, whose effect allows me to shuffle a "Death-Toy" Monster from my field, in this case Death-Toy Meister, back to my Deck in order to draw two cards from my Deck. Then, I activate the Spell Card Death-Toy Fusion, banishing Furnimal Dog and Edge Imp Scissors from my Graveyard in order to Fusion Summon!"

As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Sora chanted once again.

"Claws of the demon! Loyal watchman! Become one now in this mystical whirlpool and reveal to us your new form! Fusion Summon! Appear now, Level 7! The watchdog rising from the dark corners of Hell, Death-Toy Scissors Dog (ATK: 2700→3000/DEF: 2200/LV: 7)!"

The demonic-looking plush toy dog with black fur and blades extending from its forehead and limbs appeared on Sora's field next to Death-Toy Daredevil.

[Oh my, it looks like Shinuin Sora has brought out two fearsome Fusion Monsters!] Nico announced. [Hiiragi Yuzu might be in a serious pinch!]

"Battle!" Sora exclaimed. "Let's start with your weakest link first! Death-Toy Scissors Dog, take down Meisterin Chopin! Night Death Slash!"

"I activate the Trap Card Enchanting Melody, whose effect allows me to change the attack target to Meisterin Schubert!" Yuzu shouted as she dashed forward and then jumped, grabbing an Action Card placed in a stalactite protruding from an ice arch near the two Duelists. "I also the Action Spell Blizzard Charge, which increases Meisterin Schubert's attack and defense by 400 until the End Phase (Meisterin Schubert ATK: 2800→3200/DEF: 2000→2400)! Counterattack, Meisterin Schubert! Wave of the Great!"

The blades that had shot out of Scissors Dog's body were batted aside by Schubert, which then waved its baton and unleashed a wave of energy that bisected Sora's Monster, destroying and sending Sora skidding backwards due to the shockwave.

Sora – LP: 4000→3900

"Well played, but my attack is far from over!" Sora declared. "Death-Toy Hell Daredevil, take down Meisterin Schubert! Hell Furnace!"

Death-Toy Daredevil opened its fanged mouth wide, unleashing a stream of flames that incinerated Meisterin Schubert, with Yuzu wincing due to the intense heat.

Yuzu – LP: 3200→3100

"Moreover, Death-Toy Daredevil's effect activates." Sora continued. "When it destroys an opponent's Monster by battle, I can inflict 1000 points of damage to my opponent!"

Death-Toy Daredevil threw its trident at Yuzu, hitting her squarely on the chest and causing her to double from the pain.

Yuzu – LP: 3100→2100

"With a single attack, Yuzu lost almost half her Life Points." Serena said, her brow furrowed. "Hang in there, sister."

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Sona said. "Was my starting attack a bit too much? You look out of breath already. Perhaps I should take it a bit easier?"

"Don't joke with me." Yuzu scoffed at Sora's words. "This is just a warm-up for me. The real deal starts from here. My turn! Draw! I activate Meisterin Chopin's effect in order to Special Summon Ballad the Melodious Diva (Light/Fairy/Effect/ATK: 1500/DEF: 900/LV: 4) from my Deck!"

A female Monster clad in a lavender dress with a single wing growing from its back appeared on Yuzu's field.

"Next, I summon Soprano the Melodious Songstress (ATK: 1400/DEF: 1400/LV: 4)!"

Soprano appeared on Yuzu's field next to her other Monsters.

"I activate Soprano's effect, using it, Chopin and Ballad as materials in order to Fusion Summon!" As her three Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuzu chanted. "Nature spirits embodying the divine melody! With the guidance of the baton, gather your power! Fusion Summon! Now, come to the stage, Level 8! The song of wonder, Bloom Muse the Melodious Floral Goddess (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2100/LV: 8)!"

The female Monster with long, blond hair clad in a white and black bodysuit, which had a pink cape with a leaf design and musical notes inscribed on it extending from its shoulders, was surrounded by nine glowing orbs and held a baton-shaped branch in its right arm, appeared on Yuzu's field.

"I activate Bloom Muse's effect." Yuzu declared. "When this card is Fusion Summoned, I can destroy all Monsters on my opponent's side of the field! Roses Hurricane!"

Following Yuzu's words, a hurricane of rose petals erupted on the field, swallowing Sora's Death-Toy Daredevil.

"That move will cost you." Sora said. "Death-Toy Daredevil's effect activates. When this card is destroyed, I can inflict 500 points of damage to my opponent for every "Death-Toy" Monster in my Graveyard, including this card. Since there are two such Monsters, you'll receive 1000 points of damage!"

A magic circle appeared underneath Yuzu, with a pillar of flames erupting from it and enveloping her as she let out a cry of pain.

Yuzu – LP: 2100→1100

"Moreover, I activate the Continuous Trap Card Furnimal Compensation." Sora continued. "Thanks to its effect, once during either player's turn, when a "Death-Toy" Monster on my field is destroyed, I can Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Furnimal" Monster from my Deck. Come forth, Furnimal Dolphin (Water/Fairy/Effect/ATK: 1600/DEF: 1000/LV: 4)!"

A dolphin plush toy with a water tube around its waist appeared on Sora's field.

"However, that's not all." Sora let out a sly smile. "I activate the effect of Edge Imp Scythe (Dark/Fiend/Effect/ATK: 1000/DEF: 0/LV: 3) in my hand, which allows me to perform a Fusion Summon during my opponent's Main Phase by using it and Monsters from my hand or field as materials. I will use Edge Imp Scythe and Furnimal Dolphin as materials in order to Fusion Summon!"

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

"Sharp blades possessed by demons! Become one with the aquatic warrior and give birth to a powerful new life! Fusion Summon! Show yourself, Level 9! Terror of the deep seas that consumes everything within its maw, Death-Toy Cruel Whale (Water/Fiend/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 2600→2900/DEF: 2400/LV: 9)!"

A demonic-looking plush toy resembling a whale with blades extending from its underbelly, fin and mouth appeared on Sora's field.

[How unexpected!] Melissa exclaimed. [Using Edge Imp Scythe's effect, Sora manages to perform a Fusion Summon during Yuzu-chan's turn! This new Death-Toy Monster could spell serious trouble for her!]

"Since I Fusion Summoned successfully, I will draw a card from my Deck thanks to Cotton Eater's Pendulum Effect." Sora stated. "Next, Death-Toy Cruel Whale's effect activates. When this card is Fusion Summoned successfully, I can target a card on my field and a card on my opponent's field, and then I can destroy both cards. The ones I choose are Furnimal Compensation and your Bloom Muse!"

Following Sora's words, Cruel Whale opened its mouth wide, sucking the aforementioned cards in and shredding them to pieces with its blades.

"Bloom Muse's effect activates." Yuzu said. "When this card is destroyed, I can Special Summon one of its Fusion Materials. Revive, Meisterin Chopin!"

A rift in space appeared above Yuzu, with Meisterin Chopin emerging from it and landing on her field.

"Furthermore, the effect of Ballad in my Graveyard is activated." Yuzu continued. "When a "Melodious" Fusion Monster that used it as material is destroyed, I can Special Summon it along with a Level 4 or lower "Melodious" Monster from my Deck. Revive, Ballad! And from my Deck, come, Opera the Melodious Diva (ATK: 2300/DEF: 1000/LV: 4)!"

Two portals appeared on Yuzu's field, with Ballad and Opera emerging from it.

"I place Unisono the Melodious Diva (ATK: 1000/DEF: 800/LV: 2/SC: 8) on my Pendulum Zone." Yuzu declared as a column of light appeared on her left, with Unisono rising to its top. "Then, I activate Unisono's Pendulum Effect, which allows me to perform a Fusion Summon by using Monsters from my hand or field as materials. I will use Meisterin Chopin, Opera and Ballad as materials in order to Fusion Summon!"

As her three Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuzu chanted for the second time in a row.

"Nature spirits embodying the divine melody! With the guidance of the baton, gather your power! Fusion Summon! Now dominate the stage, Level 9! Meisterin Rossini the Melodious Maestra (ATK: 3300/DEF: 2500/LV: 9)!"

The female Monster clad in a russet-colored dress with six butterfly-like wings extending from its back, a mask concealing most of its face and a small rapier in its right hand appeared on Yuzu's field.

"I activate Meisterin Rossini's effect." Yuzu stated. "Once per turn, I can Special Summon a "Melodious" Monster from my Graveyard and add half its attack to all other "Melodious" Monsters I control until the End Phase. I choose to Special Summon the 3000 attack Bloom Muse."

Meisterin Rossini struck the ground with its rapier, generating a crack out of which Bloom Muse emerged and landed on Yuzu's field. Immediately afterwards, a golden radiance enveloped Meisterin Rossini.

(Meisterin Rossini ATK: 3300→4800)

"Battle!" Yuzu exclaimed. "Meisterin Rossini, destroy Death-Toy Cruel Whale! Prodigy Strike!"

"I activate Edge Imp Scythe's effect in my Graveyard!" Sora shouted. "By banishing it, I can prevent my Monster's destruction!"

Following Sora's words, Meisterin Rossini stabbed Cruel Whale all over its body with its rapier. Although it failed to destroy it, the ensuing shockwave sent Sora skidding backwards.

Sora – LP: 3800→1900

"Since Rossini inflicted battle damage to you, its effect activates." Yuzu declared. "Thanks to it, I can banish a random Monster from your Extra Deck and reduce all your Monsters' attack by an amount equal to the banished Monster's Level or Rank multiplied by 200."

"That's a nasty effect…" Sora let out a cramped smile as he removed a card from his Extra Deck and showed it to Yuzu. "My Monster is the Level 5 Death-Toy Chain Sheep, meaning Cruel Whale loses 1000 attack (Cruel Whale ATK: 2900→1900)."

"Next, Bloom Muse will take down Cruel Whale!" Yuzu stated. "Tifaret Symphony!"

"It won't be that easy!" Sora yelled as he jumped on one of Cruel Whale's blades, which shot forward and embedded itself on top of an ice spire, where an Action Card was placed. Sora grabbed it and once, smirking as he checked it out. "Lucky~. I activate the Action Spell Blizzard Barrier! Through its effect, your attack is negated!"

"It can't be helped then." Yuzu said. "I place a card face-down and end my turn, with Meisterin Rossini's attack returning to normal (Meisterin Rossini ATK: 4800→3300)."

"My turn!" Sora announced. "Draw! I activate Furnimal Angel's Pendulum Effect to Special Summon Furnimal Owl from my Graveyard!"

A portal appeared on Sora's field, with Furnimal Owl emerging from it.

"Next, I summon Edge Imp Prototype (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 1)!"

Edge Imp Prototype appeared on Sora's field next to Furnimal Owl.

"I activate Furnimal Owl's effect." Sora declared. "Once per turn, I can pay 500 Life Points in order to perform a Fusion Summon by using it and Monsters from my hand or field as Fusion Materials I will use Edge Imp Prototype, which can be treated as any "Edge Imp" Monster due to its effect, and Furnimal Owl as materials in order to Fusion Summon!"

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

"Origin of the demonic blade! Eyes of the void! Become one now in the mystical whirlpool and reveal to us your new form! Fusion Summon! Show yourself, Level 6! Mystical jungle beast that rips everything to shreds, Death-Toy Scissors Tiger (ATK: 1900→2200/DEF: 1200/LV: 6)!"

The demonic-looking Monster resembling a plush toy tiger with several blades growing out of its body appeared on Sora's field. At the same time, a violet aura surrounded the young boy, causing him to grimace.

Sora – LP: 1900→1400

"Due to Cotton Eater's Pendulum Effect and Edge Imp Prototype's effect, I will draw two cards from my Deck." Sora stated. "In addition, Scissors Tiger's effect increases the attack of all "Death-Toy" Monsters by 300 for every "Furnimal" and "Death-Toy" Monster I control. Since I control two such Monsters, my cute beasts gain 600 attack each (Scissors Tiger ATK: 2200→2800, Cruel Whale ATK: 1900→2500)."

"Even with this attack increase, Sora's Monsters can't contend with Yuzu's Monsters." Gongenzaka remarked. "However, his aim is probably…"

"However, let's not forget my Monster's most special effect." Sora grinned. "When Scissors Tiger is Fusion Summoned, I can target and destroy cards on my opponent's field equal to the number of its Fusion Materials, in this case two. Therefore, I will destroy your two Fusion Monsters, Yuzu!"

Following Sora's words, the scissors protruding from Scissors Tiger's abdomen extended forward and cut Yuzu's two Fusion Monsters in half, destroying them.

"The destroyed Bloom Muse's effect activates, allowing me to Special Summon one of its Fusion Materials." Yuzu stated. "Revive once again, Meisterin Chopin in defense mode!"

A portal appeared on Yuzu's field, with Meisterin Chopin emerging from it.

"Battle!" Sora exclaimed. "Death-Toy Scissors Tiger, take down Meisterin Chopin!"

"I activate the Trap Card Seven-Layered Petal Shield!" Yuzu declared. "Through its effect, Meisterin Chopin cannot be destroyed by battle during this turn's Battle Phase and any damage I receive from battles involving it is halved!"

An energy shield resembling a flower with seven petals appeared in front of Meisterin Chopin, shielding it from Scissors Tiger's blades.

"How annoying…" Sora grimaced. "None of my Monsters have an effect that can help in this situation. I end the Battle Phase."

"With the Battle Phase's end, Seven-Layered Petal Shield's final effect activates." Yuzu said. "Through it, Meisterin Chopin is banished and I draw a card from my Deck for every material used to Fusion Summon it, in this case two."

"Not bad, but you won't be so lucky next time." Sora said. "I place two cards face-down and end my turn."

"Then, it's my turn!" Yuzu announced. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Timbre Fusion, whose effect allows me to shuffle "Melodious" Monsters from my hand, field and/or Graveyard back to my Deck and then Special Summon a "Melodious" Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck that can be Fusion Summoned by using the shuffled Monsters as materials, with this Special Summon being treated as a Fusion Summon. I choose to shuffle Meisterin Chopin and Soprano in my Graveyard back to my Deck in order to Special Summon this card from my Extra Deck. Come forth, Meisterin Boieldieu the Melodious Maestra (ATK: 2800/DEF: 2100/LV: 8)!"

The female Monster clad in a lilac dress with several musical notes engraved on it and wearing an ornate opera mask, which held two dagger-shaped batons, appeared on Yuzu's field.

"I activate Meisterin Boieldieu's effect." Yuzu declared. "When this card is Fusion Summoned successfully, I take control of the opponent's Monster with the highest attack, but its effects are negated. As such, I'll take your Scissors Tiger. Hypnotic Voice!"

Meisterin Boieldieu sang a low tune that caused Scissors Tiger's body to start wiggling as its eyes lost focus. Then, it floated forward with slow movements and came to land on Yuzu's field.

"Since Scissors Tiger's effect is negated, the attack of all "Death-Toy" Monsters returns to normal (Scissors Tiger ATK: 2800→1900, Cruel Whale ATK: 2500→1900)." Yuzu continued. "Next, I summon Dynamis the Melodious Songstress (Light/Fairy/Effect/ATK: 0/DEF: 1350/LV: 3)!"

A female Monster clad in a navy-colored dress with a flower motif appeared on Yuzu's field.

"I activate Dynamis's effect, which allows me to target a Monster on the field and treat it as a "Melodious" Monster until the End Phase." Yuzu stated. "I choose to treat Scissors Tiger as a "Melodious" Monster. Then, I activate Unisono's Pendulum Effect in order to perform a Fusion Summon by using Scissors Tiger and Dynamis as materials!"

As her two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuzu chanted.

"Nature spirits embodying the divine melody! With the guidance of the baton, gather your power! Fusion Summon! Come to the stage, Level 7! Meisterin Ravel the Melodious Maestra (ATK: 2300/DEF: 1600/LV: 7)!"

The Monster clad in a peach-colored dress reminiscent of a flower with two wings made out of orange-colored leaves extending from its back, which held a rapier-shaped baton in its right hand, appeared on Yuzu's field.

[Oh my, it looks like Hiiragi Yuzu is getting ready to launch a potentially decisive offensive!] Nico announced. [If her Monsters' attack go through, Shiunin Sora is finished!]

"Battle!" Yuzu exclaimed. "Meisterin Ravel, take down Death-Toy Cruel Whale! Symphony of Passion!"

"I activate Cruel Whale's effect!" Sora declared. "Once during either player's turn, I can target a Fusion Monster I control and send a "Death-Toy" card from my Deck or Extra Deck to the Graveyard in order to increase that Monster's attack by an amount equal to half its original attack until the end of this turn! I will send Death-Toy Reborn from my Deck to the Graveyard in order to increase Cruel Whale's attack (Cruel Whale ATK: 1900→3200)! Counterattack, Cruel Whale!"

"Not good!" Yuzu started running, spotting an Action Card laying half-buried in the ground a few meters ahead of her and grabbing it just before Cruel Whale's blades reached her Monster. "I activate the Action Spell Miracle, which prevents my Monster's destruction and halves the battle damage!"

Meisterin Ravel was enveloped by a skin-tight barrier that deflected Cruel Whale's blade. However, the ensuing shockwave from the clash struck Yuzu, causing her to wince.

Yuzu – LP: 1100→650

"Consider this a bit of payback for my Scissors Dog." Sora smirked. "With this, we're even."

"In that case, you won't mind if I take down your Monster now, right?" Yuzu spoke with an eerie smile on her face. "Go, Meisterin Boieldieu! Attack Cruel Whale! At this moment, I activate the effect of Dynamis in my Graveyard, banishing it in order to increase Meisterin Boieldieu's attack by 400 for every Monster used to Fusion Summon it, in this case two, until the End Phase (Meisterin Boieldieu ATK: 2800→3600)!"

"That won't work!" Sora declared. "I activate the Trap Card Furnimal Blueprint! Through its effect, when an opponent's Monster attacks a "Death-Toy", "Furnimal" or "Edge Imp" Monster I control, I can negate that attack and Special Summon a "Furnimal" Monster from my Deck whose Level is equal to or lower than the difference of Levels between the attacking and the targeted Monster! I will Special Summon Furnimal Mouse (ATK: 100/DEF: 100/LV: 1) in defense mode!"

The plush toy mouse with angel wings appeared on Sora's field.

"I can't do anything more for now." Yuzu remarked. "I place a card face-down and end my turn, with our Monsters' attack returning to normal (Meisterin Boieldieu ATK: 3600→2800, Cruel Whale ATK: 3200→1900)."

"My turn!" Sora announced. "Draw! First, I switch Furnimal Mouse to attack position. Then, I activate its effect which allows me to Special Summon two more copies of it from my Deck in defense mode!"

Two portals appeared on Sora's field, with two copies of Furnimal Mouse emerging from it.

"I activate the effect of Death-Toy Reborn, banishing it in order to return Furnimal Dog from my banish zone back to my Graveyard." Sora continued. "Next, I activate Furnimal Angel's effect to revive Edge Imp Prototype!"

A rift in space appeared above Sora, with Edge Imp Prototype emerging from it and landing on his field.

"I activate the Spell Card Stacking Fusion, using Edge Imp Prototype, my attack position Furnimal Mouse and one of my defense position Furnimal Mouse Monsters as materials in order to Fusion Summon!" As his three Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Sora chanted. "Origin of the demonic blade! Become one with the beast parade within the mystical whirlpool and show us your dreadful new form! Fusion Summon! Appear, Level 10! Accursed doll that bears an unending grudge, Dangerous Death-Toy Nightmary (Dark/Fiend/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 2000→2300/DEF: 3000/LV: 10)!"

An oversized doll with a haunting visage reminiscent of a demon, which had a mane of long gray hair and was clad in a tattered dress, appeared on Sora's field, letting out an eerie laughter.

"Through Edge Imp Prototype's effect and Cotton Eater's Pendulum Effect, I will draw two cards from my Deck." Sora declared. "Then, thanks to Stacking Fusion's effect, Nightmary gains 500 attack for every Monster used to Fusion Summon it (Nightmary ATK: 2300→3800). However, only Fusion Monsters can attack on the turn I activated Stacking Fusion. Next, Nightmary's own effect activates, increasing its attack by 300 for every Fiend and Fairy-type Monster in my Graveyard during my turn. Since I have eight such Monsters, Nightmary gains 2400 attack (Nightmary ATK: 3800→6200)."

[This is!] Nico shouted. [Shiunin Sora has raised his new Monster's attack to a staggering 6200! This could spell trouble for Hiiragi Yuzu!]

"Moreover, I activate Cruel Whale's effect, sending Death-Toy Meister from my Deck to the Graveyard in order to increase its attack by an amount equal to half its original attack once again (Cruel Whale ATK: 1900→3200). Also, since another Fiend-type Monster was sent to the Graveyard, Nightmary's attack increases once again (Nightmary ATK: 6200→6500). Now, let's battle! Dangerous Death-Toy Nightmary, destroy Meisterin Boieldieu!"

"I activate Ballad's effect in my Graveyard by banishing it!" Yuzu exclaimed. "Through it, when an opponent's Monster attacks a "Melodious" Monster I control, I can switch the attack target to another "Melodious" Monster, and if it's in attack position, I can switch it to defense position! I will switch the target of your attack to Meisterin Ravel! In addition, I activate the Trap Card Deadly Lullaby, whose effect allows me to target and destroy an opponent's Monster that attacks a "Melodious" Monster, and then inflict half its attack as damage!"

"That won't happen!" Sora shouted. "Nightmary's effect activates! When it's targeted by my opponent's card effect, I can banish a "Death-Toy" Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck, in this case Death-Toy Scissors Bear, to negate that effect! As such, my attack resumes and your Monster is destroyed!"

Following Sora's words, Nightmary raised its hands, shooting out numerous strings that pierced through Meisterin Ravel's body and shredded it to pieces.

"Meisterin Ravel's effect activates." Yuzu said. "Since it was destroyed, I can draw a card from my Deck."

"Not bad, but my Battle Phase isn't over yet." Sora pointed out. "Death-Toy Cruel Whale, attack Meisterin Boieldieu! Depth Shredder!"

Before Yuzu had a chance to look for an Action Card, Cruel Whale charged forward, with its protruding blades piercing through Meisterin Boieldieu's body and destroying it. The ensuing shockwave sent Yuzu tumbling backwards as she let out a cry of pain.

Yuzu – LP: 650→250

"Yuzu!" Shuzo screamed as he shot upwards. "Hang in there! Don't let your burning spirit waver!"

"It looks like it'll be over soon." Sora remarked. "I end my turn, with Cruel Whale and Nightmary's attack-increasing effects ending (Cruel Whale ATK: 3200→1900, Nightmary ATK: 6500→3800)."

"It's my turn!" Yuzu announced. "Draw! During the Standby Phase, Meisterin Boieldieu's effect activates. Through it, I can banish it in order to Special Summon a number of "Melodious" Monsters from my Deck equal to the number of Monsters my opponent controls. Come to the stage, Prodigy Mozart the Melodious Maestra (ATK: 2600/DEF: 2000/LV: 8), Laureate François the Melodious Maestra (ATK: 2300/DEF: 1700/LV: 7) and Elegy the Melodious Diva (ATK: 2000/DEF: 1200/LV: 5)!"

A large portal appeared on Yuzu's field, with her three Monsters exiting from it and landing on her field.

[Yuzu-chan called out several Monsters at once without the use of Pendulum!] Melissa announced in an excited manner. [As expected of Yuzu-chan! However, with her Monsters' attack being lower than Sora's Dangerous Death-Toy Nightmary, whatever could she be planning!?]

"Elegy's effect activates, increasing the attack of all "Melodious" Monsters on my field by 300 since it was Special Summoned (Prodigy Mozart ATK: 2600→2900, Laureate François ATK: 2300→2600, Elegy ATK: 2000→2300)." Yuzu said. "Next, I activate Prodigy Mozart's effect, which allows me to Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Melodious" Monster from my hand. I will Special Summon Solo the Melodious Songstress (ATK: 1600→1900/DEF: 1000/LV: 4)!"

Solo appeared on Yuzu's field next to her other Monsters.

"Four Monsters, eh?" Sora remarked. "That's quite impressive, but your formation still can't match my own. Or are planning to summon a new Fusion Monster?"

"Not exactly." Yuzu let out a small smile. "Don't forget, even before learning about the various summoning methods, I was still quite skilled and had a few tricks up my sleeve. Since I control at least one "Melodious" Monster, I can activate the Spell Card 3rd Movement Triplet. Through its effect, if the Level sum of all Monsters on my field is higher than the Level sum of my opponent's Monsters, I can banish all of my opponent's Monsters and gain Life Points equal to the difference in Level sum multiplied by 300. In exchange, I cannot conduct my Battle Phase during this turn."

"My total Level sum is 20, while Yuzu's is 24…" Sora grimaced. "This means…"

"All your Monsters are destroyed!" Yuzu declared. "Time for a magnificent requiem!"

All four Monsters on Yuzu's field started singing a somber melody as cracks began appearing on the bodies of Sora's Monsters. Once the song ended, the three Monsters on Sora's field exploded in a shower of particles while Yuzu was surrounded by a violet aura.

Yuzu – LP: 250→1450

[Oh my, the situation has changed yet again!] Nico announced. [It appears Shiunin Sora is the one in a disadvantage now thanks to Hiiragi Yuzu's unexpected move! However, since she's now incapable of battling for this turn, how does she intend to press her advantage!?]

"Like this." Yuzu said in response. "I activate Unisono's Pendulum Effect, using Laureate François and Solo as materials in order to Fusion Summon!"

As her two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuzu chanted.

"Renowned Genius! Noble Resonance! With the guidance of the baton, gather your power! Fusion Summon! Make your glorious entrance now, Level 8! Meisterin Brahms the Melodious Maestra (Light/Fairy/Fusion/Effect/ATK: 0/DEF: 2900/LV: 8) in defense mode!"

A female Monster clad in a platinum-colored dress with a flower motif that had several notes inscribed on it, which held two ornate pipes in its hands, appeared on Yuzu's field.

"Thanks to Elegy's effect, Meisterin Brahms gains 300 attack (Meisterin Brahms ATK: 0→300)." Yuzu continued. "Now, I activate Meisterin Brahms's effect. Once per turn, I can inflict damage to my opponent equal to the number of "Melodious" Monsters on my field multiplied by 400, and then I can increase the attack of all "Melodious" Monsters I control by an amount equal to the damage my opponent took from this effect. Since I control three Monsters, you'll receive 1200 points of damage, Sora! Do it, Meisterin Brahms! Discharge Soul Break!"

Meisterin Brahms blew its two pipes, unleashing a stream of crimson-colored notes that struck Sora, sending him skidding backwards. At the same time, all of Yuzu's Monsters were enveloped by a golden aura.

Sora – LP: 1400→200

(Prodigy Mozart ATK: 2900→4100, Elegy ATK: 2300→3500, Meisterin Brahms ATK: 300→1500)

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Yuzu said. "Not bad, eh, Sora?"

"That was a pretty good move." Sora said while dusting himself. "However, I still haven't gone all out, so don't celebrate your victory just yet. Now, my turn! Draw! I activate the Trap Card Premium Death-Toy. Through its effect, if a "Death-Toy" Monster was destroyed during my previous turn, I can Special Summon a number of "Death-Toy" Monsters from my Graveyard and banish zone equal to the number of Monsters my opponent controls with their effects negated. In exchange, I cannot Normal Summon or Set any Monsters during this turn. Revive, Death-Toy Scissors Dog, Death-Toy Cruel Whale and Dangerous Death-Toy Nightmary!"

A large portal appeared on Sora's field, with his three Monsters emerging from it and coming to hover above him.

"Here comes the main star of this show." Sora smirked. "I activate the Spell Card Death-Toy Fusion, banishing my three Monsters in order to Fusion Summon!"

As his three Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Sora chanted.

"Unusual playthings possessed by demons! Unveil the origin of madness and bring forth endless nightmares! Fusion Summon! Awaken now, Level 11! The twisted engineer of terror, Death-Toy Genius Maker (ATK: 3400→3700/DEF: 3100/LV: 11)!"

The bespectacled demon clad in medievalesque clothes with three toy boxes hovering around him appeared on Sora's field, letting out a sinister laughter.

"That's Sora ace Monster…" Ayu commented with a tinge of fear in her voice. "It looks really scary."

"You can say that again." Futoshi said. "That thing is giving me some really nasty shivers…"

"Let's hope Yuzu-oneechan has what it takes to withstand its attack." Tatsuya remarked. "Otherwise, this Duel is a good as finished."

"Thanks to Cotton Eater's Pendulum Effect, I will draw a card effect from my Deck." Sora continued. "In addition, thanks to its effect, Genius Maker gains 600 attack for every banished "Death-Toy" Monster. Since there are four banished Monsters, Genius Maker gains 2400 attack (Genius Maker ATK: 3700→6100)."

"An attack of 6100…" Yuzu muttered with narrowed eyes. "This could be really troublesome. It's a good thing I was prepared for something like this. I activate the Trap Card Harmony of Heaven. Through its effect, I receive no damage from battles involving "Melodious" Monsters for the rest of this turn. Also, Meisterin Brahms cannot be targeted for an attack as long as there is at least one other "Melodious" Monster on my field."

"Clever girl." Sora smirked. "You plan to protect Meisterin Brahms and finish me off with its effect next turn. However, that won't be enough to stop me. I activate the Equip Spell Card Death-Toy Cursed Edge, equipping it to Genius Maker. Now, let's battle! Death-Toy Genius Maker, attack Prodigy Mozart! Edge of Madness!"

A sphere of violet energy formed on Genius Maker's hand, with the Monster launching it at Prodigy Mozart and destroying it.

"Genius Maker's effect activates." Sora declared. "When it destroys an opponent's Monster by battle, I can Special Summon a "Death-Toy" Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck with its effects negated. Come forth, Death-Toy Mad Chimera (ATK: 2800→3100/DEF: 2000/LV: 8)!"

The misshapen demonic-looking Monster that resembled a mix of various toys haphazardly put together appeared on Sora's field after emerging from one of the boxes hovering Genius Maker.

"At this moment, the effect of the equipped Death-Toy Cursed Edge activates." Sora said. "Thanks to it, the equipped Monster can attack a second time during each Battle Phase. Furthermore, it can also use its "once per turn" effect a second time during each turn. As such, Genius Maker will attack Elegy! Edge of Madness!"

The previous scene was repeated once again as Genius Maker's sphere of violet energy struck Elegy and vaporized it with ease, with Yuzu covering her eyes due to the ensuing shockwave.

"Genius Maker's effect activates once again through Cursed Edge's effect, allowing me to Special Summon a "Death-Toy" Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck." Sora smirked. "Show yourself, Death-Toy Wheel Saw Lio (ATK: 2400→2700/DEF: 2000/LV: 7)!"

One of the boxes hovering around Genius Maker opened once again, with Wheel Saw Lio emerging from it.

"Now there are no other "Melodious" Monsters left to protect your trump card." Sora pointed out. "Go, Death-Toy Mad Chimera! Attack Meisterin Brahms! Chimeric Barrage!"

Mad Chimera launched a missile from one of its heads, striking Brahms with it and destroying it.

"Let's settle this, Yuzu!" Sora exclaimed. "Death-Toy Wheel Saw Lio will attack you directly! This is the end!"

"Meisterin Brahms's effect activates!" Yuzu shouted. "When I would take damage on the turn it was sent to the Graveyard, I can reduce that damage by 600 for every "Melodious" Monster destroyed during this turn! Three Monsters were destroyed, meaning the damage is reduced by 1800!"

Following Yuzu's words, several saw blades shot out of Wheel Saw Lio's head, striking her head-on and sending her skidding backwards as she grimaced.

Yuzu – LP: 1450→550

"Stubborn like always, huh?" Sora let out a lopsided smile. "Well, you wouldn't have got too far if you weren't like that, my dear disciple. But in the end, I'm the one who'll draw the curtain on this show. I place two cards face-down and end my turn."

"Sorry, but it's my next Monster who's going to draw the curtain on this Duel, Sora." Yuzu declared with a confident expression. "It's my turn! Draw! I activate the Spell Card Magnum Opus Fusion, whose effect allows me to pay half my Life Points and send all Monsters on my field to the Graveyard in order to Fusion Summon a "Melodious" Fusion Monster from my Extra Deck by banishing "Melodious" Monsters from my hand, Deck, Extra Deck or Graveyard, or by shuffling "Melodious" Monsters from my banish zone or Graveyard back to the Deck. I will shuffle Meisterin Brahms, Meisterin Boieldieu and Bloom Muse back to my Extra Deck in order to Fusion Summon!"

As her three Monsters emerged from a portal that appeared on Yuzu's field and began swirling inside a multi-colored vortex, Yuzu chanted.

"As three passionate voices join together, the slumbering melody of the Earth will echo throughout the far reaches of creation! Gather your supreme talent under the guidance of the baton and give birth to a new life! Fusion Summon! Manifest now, Level 12! The song of genesis, Bloom Gaia the Melodious Floral Progenitor (ATK: 4000/DEF: 3800/LV: 12)!"

The towering female Monster with flowing silver hair and elfish features clad in a regal dress made out of viridian and crimson flowers with gold ends, which had several tree branches growing from its back and had a massive white broadsword with several musical notes engraved on it floating next to it, appeared on Yuzu's field. At the same time, Yuzu winced as a crimson aura enveloped her.

Yuzu – LP: 550→275

[Yuzu-chan's strongest Monster has appeared on the field!] Melissa exclaimed. [Now then, who will come on top in this battle between the aces!? The one who wins this confrontation will most likely win the Duel, so keep your eyes peeled, everyone!]

"I was waiting for that, which is why I had this little trick ready." Sora grinned. "I activate the Trap Card Fusion Death Waltz. Through its effect, I will target Genius Maker and Bloom Gaia, and then all other Special Summoned Monsters on the field will be destroyed and their controllers will take damage equal to their combined attack."

"What are you thinking?" Yuzu wondered as Bloom Gaia and Genius Maker started spinning, creating a massive vortex. "If you use this card, only your other two Monsters will be destroyed and you will be the only one to take damage. Unless…"

"I activate the Trap Card Death-Toy Grudge!" Sora declared as Wheel Saw Lio and Cruel Whale were destroyed. "Through its effect, when I'm about to take damage while I control a "Death-Toy" Fusion Monster, I can reduce that damage to 0 and inflict double the amount of damage I would have taken to my opponent! This is the end, Yuzu!"

"I activate the effect of Lento the Melodious Diva (Light/Fairy/Effect/ATK: 350/DEF: 1850/LV: 4) in my hand!" Yuzu shouted. "When I'm about to take effect damage, I can send this card from my hand to the Graveyard in order to reduce that damage to 0, and then I can increase the attack of a "Melodious" Monster on my field by an amount equal to half the amount of damage I would have taken (Bloom Gaia ATK: 4000→9800)."

"Tch, so you managed to counter that…" Sora clicked his tongue in irritation. "This isn't good…"

"Battle!" Yuzu exclaimed. "Bloom Gaia, attack Death-Toy Genius Maker! At this moment, Bloom Gaia's effect activates, increasing its attack by an amount equal to the Level equal to the total Level sum of all "Melodious" Monsters on the field multiplied by 400 until the End Phase (Bloom Gaia ATK: 9800→14400)! Finish this, Bloom Gaia! Transcendent Nature Symphony!"

"I activate the equipped Cursed Edge's effect!" Sora bellowed. "When the equipped Monster is attacked, I can send this card to the Graveyard to prevent its destruction and reduce the battle damage to 0! Then, my Monster gains attack equal to half the attack of the attacking Monster!"

Following Sora's words, the broadsword floating next to Bloom Gaia shot forward while being surrounded by a storm of petals and musical notes, but was blocked by a barrier made out of twisted blades that prevented it from reaching Genius Maker.

(Genius Maker ATK: 6100→13300)

"Your attack has only managed to make my Monster stronger than yours." Sora remarked. "In my next turn, you're finished, Yuzu."

"Too bad there won't be a next turn." Yuzu smirked. "During Main Phase 2, Bloom Gaia's effect activates! Since it failed to inflict battle damage to my opponent, I can target a "Melodious" Monster on my field, in this case Bloom Gaia, and reduce my opponent's Life Points by an amount equal to half that Monster's original attack! Since Bloom Gaia's original attack is 4000, you'll lose 2000 Life Points!"

"Damn, I had forgotten that absurd effect!"

Sora cursed as he dashed off in search of Action Cards, with Yuzu following suit. The young girl spotted an Action Card first on top of a frozen lamppost and scaled to its top with agile movements, only for her expression to fall.

"This is…the Action Trap Life Shave." Yuzu said through gritted teeth. "Its effect halves my Life Points."

Yuzu winced as a crimson aura surrounded her body.

Yuzu – LP: 275→138

"Lucky me~." Sora said as he dashed to the top of an ice formation and jumped from it, landing on the balcony of a frozen building and grabbing an Action Card from it. However, his expression fell in a way similar to Yuzu's upon seeing what it was. "Not so lucky after all… This is the Action Trap Action Bind, whose effect prevents me from picking up any more Action Cards for the rest of this turn."

"Then this is the end for real this time!" Yuzu declared. "Finish this, Bloom Gaia!"

A storm of petals enveloped Sora, sending him flying backwards. However, the young Duelist had a satisfied smile on his face.

"Well played…my disciple…"

Sora – LP: 200→0

Yuzu: WIN

[This settles it!] Melissa exclaimed as the audience erupted in thunderous applause once again. [The second match of the preliminary rounds has ended with Yuzu-chan's victory! Way to go, Yuzu-chan!]

"That's my daughter!" Shuzo shouted while Ayu, Futoshi and Tatsuya were cheering. "Nice job! Not even the cold arctic winds could extinguish your burning youth!"

"I lost, eh…?" Sora said as he stood up, dusting himself. "Not to mention, I was beaten in a Fusion battle of all things. You've really grown, Yuzu. As your former master, I'm proud of you."

"I only reached this place thanks to you and everyone else I met along the way." Yuzu said with a smile. "And I'll continue climbing higher and higher from here on out."

"That's the spirit." Sora said as the hoverplane approached the two of them, prompting them to look up. "Looks like I've got to take my leave. I'll be cheering for you, so do your best, Yuzu."

Yuzu nodded as Sora boarded the hoverplane, staring at it for a few seconds before turning around and walking away towards the volcano area.

Card Corner

Abyss Actor – Shrewd Mentor

ATK: 2200, DEF: 2400, LV: 6, SC: 1

Dark/Pendulum/Fiend/Effect

Pendulum Effect: Once during either player's turn, when an opponent's Monster's ATK increases, you can target an "Abyss Actor" Monster on the field and have it gain ATK equal to the amount of attack your opponent's Monster gained.

Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can place an "Abyss Actor" Monster from your field back to the Extra Deck, and then target an opponent's Monster; have that Monster lose ATK equal to the returned Monster's original attack. The activation of this effect cannot be negated.

Abyss Actor – Scale Creator

ATK: 400, DEF: 700, LV: 1, SC: 6

Dark/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: Once per turn, you can target an "Abyss Actor" Pendulum card on your Pendulum Zone and an "Abyss Actor" Pendulum Monster on your field; exchange the two cards' Scale Value.

Monster Effect: You can send this card from your hand or field to the Graveyard and target an "Abyss Actor" Pendulum card in your Pendulum Zone; increase its Scale Value by 2.

Abyss Actor – Wise Magician

ATK: 2000, DEF: 1600, LV: 5, SC: 2

Dark/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: Once per turn, when you activate an "Abyss Script" Spell Card, you can draw a card from your Deck.

Monster Effect: During either player's turn, when a card effect would affect an "Abyss Actor" Monster you control, you can send this card from your hand or field to the Graveyard to have that effect affect all "Abyss Actor" Monsters you control. You can banish this card from your Graveyard to target a Monster on your opponent's field; negate its effect. You can't activate this effect on the turn this card was sent to the Graveyard.

Abyss Actor – Dark Seductress

ATK: 600, DEF: 1050, LV: 2

Dark/Fiend/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: During your opponent's Battle Phase, reduce the attack of all Monsters your opponent controls by 200 for every "Abyss Actor" Monster on your field.

Monster Effect: You can banish this card from your field or Extra Deck; add a Spell Card that has the words "Abyss Actor" in its card text from your Deck to your hand.

Abyss Actor – Deus Ex Machina

ATK: 3200, DEF: 3000, LV: 9

Dark/Fiend/Fusion/Effect

2 Level 5 or higher "Abyss Actor" Pendulum Monsters

Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can shuffle a face-up "Abyss Actor" Pendulum Monster from your Extra Deck back to your Deck; increase this card's ATK by an amount equal to half the returned Monster's ATK. Once per turn, you can declare a summoning type. Until the start of your next turn, all Monsters your opponent controls with that summoning type can't activate their effects on the field and in the Graveyard, their ATK returns to its normal value if it's higher than it, and Monsters of that summoning type cannot be summoned by either player.

Predator Plants Kadupul Cusith

ATK: 2000, DEF: 1200, R: 3

Dark/Plant/Xyz/Effect

2 Level 3 "Predator" Plants Monsters

Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can detach as many Xyz Materials as you wish from this card to place an equal number of Predator Counters on your opponent's Monster. Once per turn, when a "Predator Plants" Monster you control attacks a Monster with Predator Counters on it, you can banish a Monster from your Graveyard for every Predator Counter on it; reduce that Monster's ATK by an amount equal to the combined ATK of the banished Monsters.

Ballad the Melodious Diva

ATK: 1500, DEF: 900, LV: 4

Light/Fairy/Effect

Monster Effect: When a "Melodious" Fusion Monster that used this card as material is destroyed, you can Special Summon this card from your Graveyard along with a Level 4 or lower "Melodious" Monster from your Deck. This effect can only be used once per Duel. When an opponent's Monster declares an attack on a "Melodious" Monster you control, you can banish this card from your Graveyard; switch the attack target to another "Melodious" Monster you control, and if it's in attack position, switch it to defense position.

Dynamis the Melodious Songstress

ATK: 0, DEF: 1350, LV: 3

Light/Fairy/Effect

Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can target a Monster on the field; treat it as a "Melodious" Monster until the End Phase. When a "Melodious" Fusion Monster you control attacks an opponent's Monster, you can banish this card from your Graveyard; increase that Monster's ATK by 400 for every material used to Fusion Summon it until the End Phase.

Meisterin Brahms the Melodious Maestra

ATK: 0, DEF: 2900, LV: 8

Light/Fairy/Fusion/Effect

1 "Melodious Maestra" Monster + 1 "Melodious" Monster

Monster Effect: This card cannot be targeted for an attack as long as there is at least one other "Melodious" Monster on your field. Once per turn, you can inflict damage to your opponent equal to the number of "Melodious" Monsters on your field x 400, and then increase the attack of all "Melodious" Monsters you control by an amount equal to the damage your opponent took from this effect. All battle damage your opponent receives is halved on the turn you used this effect. If you would take damage on the turn this card was sent to the Graveyard, you can reduce that damage by 600 for every "Melodious" Monster that was destroyed during this turn.

Lento the Melodious Diva

ATK: 350, DEF: 1850, LV: 4

Light/Fairy/Effect

Monster Effect: When you're about to take effect damage, you can send this card from your hand to the Graveyard; reduce that damage to 0, and then you can increase the ATK of a "Melodious" Monster on your field by an amount equal to half the amount of damage you would have taken.

Wild Law

Action Spell

Reduce an instance of damage to 0 and have your opponent gain Life Points equal to half the amount of damage you would have received.

Abyss Actor Recasting

Normal Spell Card

You can activate this card only during your Main Phase 2. Shuffle two "Abyss Actor" Pendulum Monsters from your hand back to your Deck, and then draw four cards from your Deck.

Abyss Actor Nomination

Normal Spell Card

Special Summon an "Abyss Actor" Pendulum Monster from your Extra Deck and deal damage to your opponent equal to its Level x 100.

Spore Bomb

Quick-Play Spell Card

Target a Monster on your field and destroy it. During your End Phase, Special Summon the destroyed Monster, and if it was a Fusion Monster that was Fusion summoned this turn, increase its ATK by 600 for every material used to Fusion Summon it.

Wrath Blaze

Normal Spell Card

You can activate this card if you control a Level 8 or higher DARK Fusion Monster. Destroy all Spell/Trap Cards your opponent controls and draw cards from your Deck equal to the number of destroyed cards minus one.

Hunter Instinct

Normal Spell Card

Target a Monster on your field; have it attack all Monsters your opponent controls once each and make them unable to activate their effects. Your opponent receives no damage, no other Monster on your field can attack and all other Monsters on your field are destroyed during the Battle Phase's end. During the End Phase, have the targeted Monster gain 300 ATK for every Monster it destroyed during the Battle Phase.

Showtime Fusion

Normal Spell Card

Fusion Summon an "Abyss Actor" Fusion Monster by using Monsters from your hand and/or your field as materials. You can also use "Abyss Actor" Pendulum Monsters face-up in your Extra Deck as materials, but they are banished. When an "Abyss Actor" Fusion Monster on your field is destroyed, you can banish this card from your Graveyard; add two "Abyss Actor" Pendulum Monsters from your Deck and/or face-up from your Extra Deck to your hand.

Death-Toy Emergency Recall

Normal Spell Card

Shuffle a "Death-Toy" Monster from your field back to your Deck; draw two cards from your Deck.

Blizzard Charge

Action Spell

Target a Monster on your field; increase its ATK and DEF by 400 until the End Phase.

Blizzard Barrier

Action Spell

Negate the attack of an opponent's Monster.

Timbre Fusion

Normal Spell Card

Shuffle "Melodious" Monsters from your hand, field and/or Graveyard back to your Deck, and then Special Summon a "Melodious" Fusion Monster from your Extra Deck that can be Fusion Summoned by using the shuffled Monsters as materials (this Special Summon is treated as a Fusion Summon).

Stacking Fusion

Normal Spell Card

Fusion Summon a Fusion Monster from your Extra Deck by using Monsters from your hand and/or field as materials, and then increase the summoned Monster's ATK by 500 for every Fusion Material used to Fusion Summon it. During the turn you activated this card, only Fusion Monsters can declare an attack on this turn's Battle Phase.

3rd Movement Triplet

Normal Spell Card

Activate this card only if you control a "Melodious" Monster. If the Level sum of all Monsters on your field is higher than the Level sum of your opponent's Monsters, banish all of your opponent's Monsters and gain Life Points equal to the difference in Level sum x 300. You cannot conduct your Battle Phase during the turn you activated this card.

Death-Toy Cursed Edge

Equip Spell Card

Equip this card to a "Death-Toy" Monster you control. The equipped Monster can make a second attack during the Battle Phase and can use their "once per turn" (if any) effect for a second time during the same turn. When the equipped Monster is attacked, you can send this card to the Graveyard; that Monster isn't destroyed by that battle, the battle damage from it is reduced to 0 and your Monster gains ATK equal to half the ATK of the attacking Monster.

Abyss Actor Insurance

Normal Trap Card

If you control two or more "Abyss Actor" Monsters when your opponent's Monster declares an attack, you can negate that attack. Then, you can place an "Abyss Actor" Pendulum Monster face-up in your Extra Deck. When the summon of "Abyss Actor" Monsters on your field would be negated, you can banish this card from your Graveyard to prevent that negation.

Abyss Horizon

Counter Trap Card

If a DARK Monster left the field this turn, you can reduce an instance of damage to 0 and add a DARK Monster from your Deck to your hand.

Hell Pit

Action Trap

Destroy a Monster on your field and take 500 points of damage.

Furnimal Compensation

Continuous Trap Card

Once during either player's turn, when a "Death-Toy" Monster on your field is destroyed, you can Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Furnimal" Monster from your Deck.

Furnimal Blueprint

Normal Trap Card

When an opponent's Monster attacks a "Death-Toy", "Furnimal" or "Edge Imp" Monster you control, you can negate that attack, and then you can Special Summon a "Furnimal" Monster from your Deck whose Level is equal to or lower than the difference of Levels between the attacking and the targeted Monster.

Premium Death-Toy

Normal Trap Card

If a "Death-Toy" Monster was destroyed during your previous turn, Special Summon a number of "Death-Toy" Monsters from your Graveyard and banish zone equal to the number of Monsters your opponent controls with their effects negated. You cannot Normal Summon or Set any Monsters during the turn you activated this card.

Death-Toy Grudge

Normal Trap Card

When you're about to take damage while you control a "Death-Toy" Fusion Monster, reduce that damage to 0 and inflict double the amount of damage you would have received to your opponent.

Life Shave

Action Trap

Halve your Life Points.

Action Bind

Action Trap

You cannot add Action Cards to your hand for the rest of this turn.

That concludes Chapter 77. The Maiami Championship has finally started, with the first match being the one between Sawatari and Yuri. In the show, Yuri was the only one of Zarc's reincarnations that Sawatari didn't face at any point, so they confronted each other here. While he was defeated in the end, he showed his prowess by taking down both Starve Venom and Greedy Venom, forcing Yuri to resort to an Xyz Summon in order to win.

The second match pitted Yuzu against Sora, her mentor in Fusion Summoning and the one who helped her take the first steps towards becoming a stronger Duelist. Truth be told, I was wavering between Yuzu and Yukio when it came to the person Sora would face. Ultimately though, I decided it was more fitting for Yuzu to confront him as his former disciple in order to demonstrate her growth to him.

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

See you all next time!