Greetings, community! Dvdryms here with Chapter 78. My apologies for the extended delay, but August was quite difficult in more ways than one. Now, in response to your reviews.

—To EXECZ: Thanks for pointing out my mistake.

—To Guest 1.0: Yes, the sixteenth Duelist is Dennis. I had forgotten to write his name in Chapter 77.

And now, on with the story!

Chapter 78 – Maiami Championship Preliminaries II

"Two Duels have already concluded, huh? That was fast. It looks like the first round might finish before midday…"

Shun muttered as he walked through the streets of the ruin area. As he looked around, he couldn't help but recall the previous Maiami Championship and the chaos that had ensued at that time.

"Things are so different now, it feels strange…" Shun remarked. "Let's hope my luck in this place will be different as well."

"I don't know about that, but my luck at least isn't looking that good."

Shun looked up following these words, only to see Dennis perched at the top of one of the temple ruin-like buildings, his usual carefree smile plastered on his face. Jumping down from his vantage point, he landed a few meters away from Shun, the two Duelists gazing at each other for a few seconds in silence. Dennis was the first to break it as he addressed Shun.

"Actually, I wanted to meet with you, Kurosaki. I feel that I—"

"Stop." Shun extended his hand, silencing Dennis. "This isn't the time for words, but the time for battle. What you want to say will wait for later."

"As expected of Kurosaki, it's always business first, everything else second." Dennis grinned. "Then, as you wish, let's fight. Want to make this one a Riding Duel for old times' sake?"

[Absolutely not!] Melissa exclaimed from the monitor. [We don't need you two destroying half the city while rampaging! One time was enough, thank you very much!]

[There, there, Melissa-san.] Nico tried to pacify his co-announcer. [The Duelists get to choose their method of fighting, so we shouldn't—]

[Don't speak when you don't know!] Melissa shot back. [The Duel between these two is when things started getting really crazy in the Friendship Cup! I'm not going through this ordeal again!]

"I wasn't planning to conduct a Riding Duel, so there's no issue." Shun said as he activated his Duel Disk. "Such a manner of Dueling isn't my style."

"I hear you." Dennis said. "Traditional way it is then. Now, let's get this show on the road!"

[Duel!]

Both Shun and Dennis shouted together.

Shun – LP: 4000

Dennis – LP: 4000

"Act one belongs to me!" Dennis announced. "Using the Scale 3 Entermage Bonus Dealer (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1000/LV: 2/SC: 3) and the Scale 7 Entermage Air Dancer (Wind/Spellcaster/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 800/DEF: 2000/LV: 4/SC: 7), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

Two columns of light appeared on Dennis's field, with Bonus Dealer and a female Monster clad in a white and green pierrot's costume that held a baton surrounded by wind in its left hand rising to their top.

"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 4 through 6." Dennis declared. "Pendulum Summon! Show yourselves, Entermage Wind Sucker (ATK: 2100/DEF: 0/LV: 5/SC: 4), Entermage Dazzle Artist (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1100/LV: 4) and Entermage Sly Gambler (Dark/Spellcaster/Effect/ATK: 1000/DEF: 2100/LV: 5)!"

Three beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Wind Sucker, Dazzle Artist and an overweight Monster clad in a tuxedo that was flipping coins with both hands.

"Bonus Dealer's Pendulum Effect activates, allowing me to draw two cards from my Deck since I Pendulum Summoned three "Entermage" Monsters from my hand." Dennis continued. "Next, I Overlay the Level 5 Wind Sucker and Sly Gambler, which can be treated as two Materials for the Xyz Summon of an "Entermage" Monster!"

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

"Show yourself, artist of the netherworld! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 5! Entermage Shadow Maker (ATK: 2600/DEF: 2000/R: 5/OU: 2)!"

The Monster resembling a shadow clad in a performer's outfit, which held a giant pair of scissors in its hands, appeared on Dennis's field.

"I activate Dazzle Artist's effect." Dennis stated. "I can release this card to target an "Entermage" Xyz Monster on my field and increase its by 400 for every Overlay Unit attached to it. Of course, I choose Shadow Maker, and since it was targeted by a card effect, its own effect activates. Through it, I will detach an Overlay Unit to Special Summon a second copy of Shadow Maker from my Extra Deck!"

Following Dennis's words, one of the Overlay Units orbiting Shadow Maker disappeared. Immediately afterwards, a dark spot appeared at the tip of the Monster's bottom, out of which a second Shadow Maker emerged. At the same time, Dazzle Artist turned into a rain of particles that enveloped the first Shadow Maker.

(Shadow Maker ATK: 2600→3000)

"That Monster…" Shun let out a lopsided smile. "You used that during our two previous Duels, no?"

"What can I say? I'm feeling a bit nostalgic today." Dennis grinned. "I place a card face-down and end my turn."

[In just one turn, Dennis has brought out two formidable Xyz Monsters!] Nico exclaimed. [Now, how will Kurosaki Shun respond to that!?]

"If you're nostalgic, then you're going to love this next blast from the past." Shun stated. "My turn! Draw! I summon Raid Raptors – Skull Eagle (Dark/Winged Beast/Effect/ATK: 1000/DEF: 500/LV: 3)!"

A small mechanical eagle clad in white armor appeared on Shun's field.

"Since I control a "Raid Raptors" Monster, I can Special Summon this card from my hand." Shun continued. "Appear, Raid Raptors – Heel Eagle (Dark/Winged Beast/Effect/ATK: 700/DEF: 700/LV: 3)!"

Another mechanical eagle clad in black armor with purple wings appeared on Shun's field.

"Two Level 3 Monsters…" Dennis's expression fell. "Oh, this isn't good at all…"

"I Overlay my two Level 3 Monsters!" As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Shun chanted. "Avian hunter of hell! Guide your enemies to their resting place with your sharp talons! Xyz Summon! Soar, Rank 3! Raid Raptors – Devil Eagle (Dark/Winged Beast/Xyz/Effect/ATK: 1000/DEF: 0/R: 3/OU: 2)!"

A mechanical eagle clad in black and crimson armor appeared on Shun's field.

"Thanks to Skull Eagle's effect, Devil Eagle gains 300 attack (Devil Eagle ATK: 1000→1300)." Shun stated. "Next, I activate Devil Eagle's effect. By detaching an Overlay Unit, I can inflict damage to my opponent equal to the attack of a Special Summoned Monster on the field. I will target your 3000 attack Shadow Maker to inflict 3000 points of damage to you!"

"Oh My God!" Dennis exclaimed. "This is a huge pinch…or it would be if it wasn't for Air Dancer's Pendulum Effect! Once during either player's turn, I can halve an instance of effect damage!"

Following Dennis's words, Devil Eagle flew upwards and unleashed a rain of energy bullets from its wings. At the same time, Air Dancer swung its baton, conjuring a blast of wind that scattered half of the shots. However, the other half struck Dennis's body, causing the young Duelist to let out a grunt of pain.

Dennis – LP: 4000→2500

[With a single move, Kurosaki has wiped out almost half of Dennis's Life Points!] Melissa announced. [As expected from one of the fiercest Lancers, his Dueling is aggressive and overpowering from the get-go!]

"Shun seems to be in tip-top shape as always." Kaito remarked. "Knowing his style, I really wouldn't like to be in Dennis's position right now."

"However, Dennis doesn't look overly concerned." Byron pointed. "He must surely have his own moves ready to counter Shun."

"Since the effect damage Air Dancer halved was higher than 1000, I will draw two cards from my Deck and place one card from my hand on top of my Deck." Dennis said. "In addition, since you targeted Shadow Maker with a card effect, I will detach its final Overlay Unit to Special Summon the third copy of Shadow Maker from my Extra Deck!"

A dark spot appeared at the tip of Shadow Maker's bottom, with another Shadow Maker emerging from it.

"You've only managed to dig your grave deeper, Dennis." Shun said. "I activate the Spell Card Rank-Up-Magic Raid Force, using Devil Eagle as material to Xyz Summon a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster that's one Rank higher than it!"

As Devil Eagle turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Shun chanted.

"Obscured falcon! Raise your sharpened talons in front of adversity and spread your wings of rebellion! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Appear, Rank 4! Raid Raptors – Rise Falcon (ATK: 100/DEF: 2000/R: 4/OU: 2)!"

Rise Falcon appeared on Shun's field, letting out a piercing screech.

"I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Rise Falcon's effect." Shun declared. "Through it, its attack increases by an amount equal to the attack of all Special Summoned Monsters my opponent controls until the End Phase (Rise Falcon ATK: 100→8300). Now, let's battle! Rise Falcon, destroy his Shadow Maker! Brave Claw Revolution!"

"I activate the effect of Sly Gambler in my Graveyard!" Dennis shouted. "By banishing it, I can draw a card from my Deck, and if it's an "Entermage" Monster, I can end the Battle Phase! However, I already know it is one since the card I placed on the top of my Deck through Air Dancer's effect was Entermage Hat Tricker! Therefore, the Battle Phase ends!"

"It looks like I can't do anything else for now." Shun remarked. "I place a card face-down and end my turn, with Rise Falcon's attack returning to normal (Rise Falcon ATK: 8300→100)."

"It's my turn!" Dennis announced. "Draw! You may have taken the lead for now, Kurosaki, but let's see if my ace performer can shake things up a bit. But first, it's time for another Pendulum Summon! Join us on the stage from my hand, Entermage Hat Tricker (ATK: 1100/DEF: 1100/LV: 4) and Entermage Ball Rider (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1800/LV: 4/SC: 3)!"

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

"Next, I Overlay my two Level 4 Monsters!" As his two Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Dennis chanted. "Show must go on! Artisan of the air, swing across the stage with grace! Xyz Summon! Appear, Rank 4! Entermage Trapeze Magician (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/R: 4/OU: 2)!"

Dennis's ace Monster appeared on the field, swinging across the air with the aid of its trapeze and waving at the screens, with the audience cheering at this display.

[Dennis's favorite Monster, Trapeze Magician, is now on the field!] Nico announced. [But does it have the power to overturn the situation and give a decisive advantage to Dennis, or perhaps even the victory!?]

"I guess we'll find out soon enough." Dennis remarked. "Battle! Trapeze Magician, attack Rise Falcon! Graceful Dive!"

"I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Rank-Down-Magic Retread Force!" Shun announced. "Through it, I can target a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster on my field and Special Summon a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster from my Extra Deck with a lower Rank than it!

As Rise Falcon turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Shun chanted.

"Concealed falcon! Become the unseen shield that will deflect the fangs of malice! Rank-Down Xyz Change! Appear, Rank 2! Raid Raptors – Stealth Falcon (Dark/Winged Beast/Xyz/Effect/ATK: 500/DEF: 1000/R: 2/OU: 2)!"

A mechanical falcon clad in copper-colored and grey armor, whose form seemed to be flickering, appeared on Shun's field.

[Kurosaki uses a Rank-Down card to bring out a Monster with a lower Rank, and in attack position no less!] Melissa announced. [What on Earth could he be thinking!? The way things are going, he's only setting himself up for defeat!]

"Looks like she doesn't know Shun very well." Allen smirked. "He's definitely brought that Monster out for a reason."

"You're definitely plotting something, but that won't be enough to stop me." Dennis said. "Continue, Trapeze Magician! Take down Stealth Falcon!"

"Due to its effect, Stealth Falcon cannot be targeted for an attack." Shun stated. "As such, your attack becomes a direct one, and since you're attacking me directly, I can activate Stealth Falcon's effect. By detaching an Overlay Unit, I can reduce all damage from direct attacks to 0 for this turn."

Following Shun's words, a semi-transparent barrier appeared around him, shielding him from Trapeze Magician's attack.

"That's not all." Shun continued. "If Stealth Falcon was the only Monster on my field when I activated its effect, I can draw cards from my Deck equal to the difference between the number of Monsters my opponent and I control. As such, I will draw three cards from my Deck."

"You got me." Dennis shrugged. "You perfectly sealed my attack and refilled your hand. I end my turn with that."

"My turn!" Shun announced. "Draw! Now then, I guess that's as good a time as any to try out my new power. Using the Scale 1 Raid Raptors – Cluster Lanius (Dark/Winged Beast/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 1400/DEF: 900/LV: 3/SC: 1) and the Scale 7 Raid Raptors – Scout Lanius (Dark/Winged Beast/Pendulum/Effect/ATK: 0/DEF: 600/LV: 2/SC: 7), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

Two columns of light appeared on Shun's sides, with a mechanical bird clad in silver-colored armor that had numerous missiles attached to its wings and a mechanical bird clad in navy-colored armor with two antennae protruding from its back rising to their top.

[Oh, what's this!?] Nico exclaimed. [Kurosaki Shun has pulled off an unexpected move by setting up his own Pendulum Scale! Despite being known as one of the Lancers most reluctant to change his playstyle, he's actually about to perform a Pendulum Summon! This certainly doesn't bode well for Dennis!]

"Shun…" Yuto smiled upon seeing that. "So that's your new step forward, eh?"

"Wow!" Dennis cheered. "I certainly didn't see this coming. Never thought the hard-headed Kurosaki would actually resort to using Pendulum. But this will only make things more exciting!"

"That's one way to look at it, I suppose." Shun said. "Now, let's continue. With my current Pendulum Scale, I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 2 through 6. Pendulum Summon! Flock to me, Raid Raptors – Gatling Buzzard (Dark/Winged Beast/Effect/ATK: 1900/DEF: 2300/LV: 6) and Raid Raptors – Rudder Strix (Dark/Winged Beast/Effect/ATK: 0/DEF: 1600/LV: 4)!"

Two beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of a large mechanical bird with crimson armor that had two gatling guns strapped on its back and a mechanical bird that was shaped like a rudder and was clad in light blue armor upon landing on his field.

"Rudder Strix's effect would normally deal you 300 points of damage, but Trapeze Magician's effect will negate it, so I won't bother." Shun continued. "I activate Gatling Buzzard's effect, which allows me to Special Summon a "Raid Raptors" Monster from my Deck once per turn. Come, Raid Raptors – Tribute Lanius (ATK: 1800/DEF: 400/LV: 4)!"

A small compartment opened on Gatling Buzzard's abdomen, with Tribute Lanius emerging from it.

"Tribute Lanius's effect activates upon being summoned, allowing me to send a "Raid Raptors" Monster from my Deck to the Graveyard." Shun said. "I choose Raid Raptors – Mimicry Lanius and I banish it through its effect to add Raid Raptors – Slash Eagle (Dark/Winged Beast/Effect/ATK: 400/DEF: 700/LV: 2) from my Deck to my hand."

"Three Monsters…" Sayaka muttered. "Does Shun intend to Xyz Summon? But their Levels don't match…"

"I activate Cluster Lanius's Pendulum Effect, which allows me to target a "Raid Raptors" Monster on my field and make the Level of all other "Raid Raptors" Monsters I control equal to that Monster's Level." Shun stated. "I will target the Level 6 Gatling Buzzard, making my other two Monsters' Level 6 as well. Then, I will Overlay my three Level 6 Monsters!"

As his three Monsters turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Shun chanted.

"Proud falcon! Spread your wings dyed in the blood of heroes and advance through the path of revolution! Xyz Summon! Appear now, Rank 6! Raid Raptors – Revolution Falcon (ATK: 2000/DEF: 3000/R: 6/OU: 3)!"

A pillar of fire erupted on Shun's field, with Revolution Falcon emerging from it.

"Scout Lanius's Pendulum Effect activates, allowing me to draw a card from my Deck when a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster is Xyz Summoned once per turn." Shun said. "Furthermore, Cluster Lanius's second Pendulum Effect activates, increasing the attack of a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster by an amount equal to the number of Overlay Units attached to it multiplied by 300. Revolution Falcon has three Overlay Units, which means its attack increases by 900 (Revolution Falcon ATK: 2000→2900)."

"Unfortunately, you won't get a chance to use your Monster." Dennis smirked. "I activate the Continuous Trap Card Magical Fortress, which prevents your Monsters from battling as long as I control a Spellcaster-type Monster. Moreover, I activate Trapeze Magician's effect, detaching an Overlay Unit to allow your Revolution Falcon to attack twice during the Battle Phase. However, since your Monster cannot battle, Trapeze Magician's effect will destroy it."

"You really think that's enough to stop me?" Shun snorted. "If so, you're really underestimating me. I activate Slash Eagle's effect in my hand. If I control a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster, I can send this card from my hand to the Graveyard to destroy a Spell or Trap Card on my opponent's field. I will destroy your Magical Fortress!"

Following Shun's words, the ghostly image of a mechanical eagle with blades instead of legs charged forward, destroying Dennis's Trap Card.

"Magical Fortress's effect activates." Dennis said. "Since it was destroyed, I can draw a card from my Deck."

"I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Revolution Falcon's effect, which allows it to attack all Special Summoned Monsters my opponent controls once each." Shun declared. "Moreover, when Revolution Falcon attacks an opponent's Special Summoned Monster, that Monster's attack becomes 0."

[Oh, this doesn't look good for Dennis!] Melissa announced. [If those attacks go through, he's finished!]

"Battle!" Shun exclaimed as he jumped on Revolution Falcon's back. "Revolution Falcon, take down all of his Monsters and wipe out his Life Points! Revolutional Air Raid!"

"This is bad!" Dennis jumped and grabbed Trapeze Magician's legs, with the Monster soaring in the air and depositing Dennis on top of a ruined temple, where he grabbed an Action Card. "Jackpot! I activate the Action Spell Hasty Retreat, which switches all attack position Monsters on my field in defense position! However, I cannot change their battle positions until the end of my next turn!"

"I can do that as well!" Shun shouted as he jumped from Revolution Falcon's back, landing on top of a ruined pillar and grabbing an Action Card, with a grimace appearing on his face upon seeing what it was. "…Tch, this is the Action Trap Crumbling Ruin, which deals 400 points of damage to me."

Following Shun's words, the pillar underneath him started cracking, forcing him to jump from it and land on the ground with a roll, barely dodging several falling debris.

Shun – LP: 4000→3600

"Even so, I'll at least destroy your Monsters!" Shun said. "Do it, Revolution Falcon!"

The compartments on Revolution Falcon's wings opened up following Shun's words, unleashing a payload of bombs that obliterated Dennis's Monsters in one go, leaving his field bare.

"Stealth Falcon will attack you directly next!" Shun pointed at Dennis. "Shadow Talon!"

Stealth Falcon dashed forward, slashing Dennis with its talons and causing him to wince in pain.

Dennis – LP: 2500→2000

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Shun said.

[It appears Kurosaki has the absolute advantage right now, having annihilated Dennis's field with a ruthless attack!] Melissa announced. [Now then, can Dennis turn this situation around on his upcoming turn!?]

"I guess we'll find out about that soon enough." Dennis grinned. "Now then, it's time for the next act! It's my turn! Draw! I activate the Spell Card Sleight Fusion. Through its effect, I can check the top card of my Deck, and if it's an "Entermage" Monster, I can Special Summon it and then perform a Fusion Summon by using it and "Entermage" Monsters from my hand and/or field as materials. Let's see if Lady Luck will favor this dashing performer!"

Dennis drew the top card of his Deck and revealed it to Shun with a satisfied smile.

"I drew Entermage Double Artist." Dennis said. "As such, I will Special Summon it (ATK: 200/DEF: 900/LV: 2)!"

A portal appeared on Dennis's field, with Double Artist emerging from it and landing on Dennis's field.

"Double Artist can be treated as two materials for the Special Summon of an "Entermage" Monster." Dennis continued. "Then, through Sleight Fusion's effect, I will use Double Artist on my field and Entermage Fire Dancer on my hand to perform a Fusion Summon!"

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

"Performer gracefully dancing amidst the flickering flames! Merge with the two-faced artist and become the demonic jester residing in the depths of the netherworld! Fusion Summon! Appear, Level 9! Entermage Death Pierrot (ATK: 3100/DEF: 2600/LV: 9)!"

The Monster resembling a clown-like figure clad in a predominantly red and green suit with six swords floating behind it appeared on Dennis's field.

"But wait, there's more!" Dennis declared. "I activate the Spell Card Rank-Up-Magic Comeback Force, whose effect allows me to Special Summon an "Entermage" Xyz Monster from my Graveyard if my opponent controls a Special Summoned Monster, and then I can use that Monster as material to Xyz Summon an "Entermage" Xyz Monster that's one Rank higher than it. I will Special Summon Trapeze Magician and use it to reconstruct the Overlay Network!"

As Trapeze Magician emerged from a portal on Dennis's field and subsequently turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Dennis chanted.

"Show must go on! Oh, magician of the sky! More magnificently, more vividly, run across the even greater stage! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Appear now, Rank 5! Entermage Trapeze High Magician (ATK: 2700/DEF: 2200/R: 5/OU: 1)!"

The spellcaster dressed in a flamboyant white outfit and holding a trapeze in its right arm appeared on Dennis's field.

[After a successful Fusion Summon, Dennis follows with an Xyz Summon!] Nico announced. [Could this be the beginning of a counterattack!?]

"Through Comeback Force's effect, Trapeze High Magician gains 400 attack for every "Entermage" Monster on the field." Dennis said. "Since there are two such Monsters its attack increases by 800 (Trapeze High Magician ATK: 2700→3500). Next, I activate Trapeze High Magician's effect, detaching an Overlay Unit to allow it to attack three times during this Battle Phase. Now, let's battle! Trapeze High Magician, take down Revolution Falcon!"

"Useless!" Shun exclaimed. "Through Revolution Falcon's effect, your Monster's attack—"

"That won't work!" Dennis smirked. "Through Comeback Force's second effect, the Monster summoned by its effect is unaffected by my opponent's card effects on the turn it was summoned! As such, my attack resumes! Go, Trapeze High Magician! Wondrous Sky Dive!"

Dennis's Monster grabbed on its trapeze and swung across the air in a graceful manner before striking Revolution Falcon with a light-enveloped kick and destroying it. The ensuing shockwave sent Shun skidding backwards as he grimaced.

Shun – LP: 3600→3000

"Since an "Entermage" Monster destroyed an opponent's Monster by battle, Death Pierrot's effect activates, allowing me to destroy a Monster my opponent controls." Dennis stated. "I will destroy Stealth Falcon!"

Several daggers appeared around Death Pierrot following Dennis's words and shot forward, shredding Stealth Falcon with ease.

"Since Revolution Falcon was destroyed by battle, I can activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Rank-Up-Magic Death Double Force!" Shun declared. "Through its effect, I can Special Summon the destroyed Revolution Falcon and use it as material to Xyz Summon a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster with twice its Rank from my Extra Deck. I will use Revolution Falcon to reconstruct the Overlay Network!"

As Revolution Falcon emerged from a rift in space and turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Shun chanted.

"Falcon of my very soul! With your heart of unwavering conviction and deep affection, become my sturdy last defense and descend! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Appear, Rank 12! Raid Raptors – Final Fortress Falcon (Dark/Winged Beast/Xyz/Effect/ATK: 3800/DEF: 2800/R: 12/OU: 1)!"

A towering mechanical falcon clad in purple armor with oversized boosters extending from its back and lower body, which had several cannons attached to its body, appeared on Shun's field.

"Due to the Pendulum Effects of Cluster Lanius and Scout Lanius, Final Fortress Falcon's attack increases by 300 due to having one Overlay Unit (Final Fortress Falcon ATK: 3800→4100) and I can draw a card from my Deck." Shun stated. "Do you have anything that can overcome this sturdy defense, Dennis?"

"Unfortunately, I don't, which means the climax must be put on hold once again." Dennis said. "I end my turn with that."

"My turn!" Shun announced. "Draw! I activate the Equip Spell Card Raptor's Wing Bomber, equipping it to Final Fortress Falcon. Now then, let's battle! Final Fortress Falcon, attack Death Pierrot first!"

"Due to Death Pierrot's effect, "Entermage" Monsters I control cannot be destroyed by battle, and I also take no battle damage from battles involving Death Pierrot." Dennis smirked. "I'm afraid your attack is pointless."

"I'm afraid you're mistaken." Shun countered. "Thanks to Raptor's Wing Bomber's effect, effects that negate battle damage do not apply when the equipped Monster battles. Therefore, you'll receive all the damage!"

"In that case, I activate the effect Death Pierrot gained from Sleight Fusion!" Dennis declared. "Through it, when it's targeted for an attack, I can switch the attack target to another Monster I control! I will switch the attack target to Trapeze High Magician!"

"Have it your way." Shun said. "Go, Final Fortress Falcon! Bombardment Blast Barrage!"

Final Fortress Falcon aimed its cannons at Trapeze High Magician, unleashing a barrage of blasts that struck Dennis's Monster. Although they failed to destroy it, several stray shots struck Dennis, causing him to wince in pain.

Dennis – LP: 2000→1400

"We're not finished yet." Shun declared. "I detach all Overlay Units from Final Fortress Falcon to activate its effect. Thanks to it, since it attacked successfully, I can banish as many "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monsters as I wish from my Graveyard in order to have Final Fortress Falcon attack an equal number of times. I will banish Devil Eagle, Rise Falcon, Stealth Falcon and Revolution Falcon to allow Final Fortress Falcon to attack four more times!"

[Oh my, it looks like Dennis is in a big pinch!] Melissa announced. [If those attacks go through, he's finished!]

"Go, Final Fortress Falcon!" Shun shouted. "Attack Trapeze High Magician once more! Bombardment Blast Barrage!"

As Final Fortress Falcon prepared its guns to fire once again, Dennis started running in search of Action Cards. However, Final Fortress Falcon as it unleashed another barrage that struck Trapeze High Magician, generating a large explosion that sent Dennis flying backwards and crashing into a nearby wall.

Dennis – LP: 1400→800

"One more time!" Shun shouted. "Do it, Final Fortress Falcon!"

"I can't take much more of this!"

Dennis cried out. At that moment, he spotted an Action Card lying underneath a makeshift corridor formed by a pile of debris. Running as fast as he could he slid underneath the debris and grabbed the Action Card, letting out a triumphant smile.

"Nice catch!" Dennis cheered. "I activate the Spell Card Big Escape, whose effect allows me to end the Battle Phase!"

"It looks like you've survived for one more turn." Shun remarked. "However, I'm not finished just yet. Raptor's Wing Bomber's second effect activates. Thanks to it, during my Main Phase 2, I can destroy Monsters on my opponent's field equal to the number of times the equipped Monster attacked during the previous Battle Phase. Final Fortress Falcon attacked twice, meaning I can destroy both your Death Pierrot and your Trapeze High Magician, Dennis!"

Following Shun's words, numerous missiles were launched from the container units attached to Final Fortress Falcon's wings, bombarding Dennis's field and vaporizing his two Monsters.

"Moreover, you can draw a card from your Deck for every destroyed Monster." Shun said. "As such, you can draw two cards. I place a card face-down and end my turn with that."

"Then, it's my turn!" Dennis announced. "Draw! First, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Join us on the stage, Entermage Mirror Conductor (ATK: 600/DEF: 1400/LV: 4/SC: 3), Entermage Higurumi (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1000/LV: 4/SC: 5) and Entermage Cup Tricker (ATK: 1200/DEF: 1400/LV: 5/SC: 1)!"

Three beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Dennis's Monsters.

"Since I Pendulum Summoned three "Entermage" Monsters from my hand, Bonus Dealer's Pendulum Effect activates, allowing me to draw two cards from my Deck." Dennis continued, and then grinned upon seeing one of his cards. "I can do it with this. I activate the Spell Card Rank-Up-Magic Troupe Force whose effect allows me to send all Monsters on my field to the Graveyard and Special Summon an "Entermage" Xyz Monster from my Graveyard. Then, I can use that Monster as Xyz Material along with this card in order to Special Summon an "Entermage" Xyz Monster from my Deck whose Rank is equal to that Monster's Rank plus the number of Monsters sent to the Graveyard through Troupe Force's effect. I will revive Trapeze High Magician and use it to reconstruct the Overlay Network!"

Following Dennis's words, his three Monsters turned into a rain of particles that formed a portal, out of which Trapeze High Magician emerged. Then, as Trapeze High Magician turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Dennis chanted.

"This is the best and greatest show! O peerless magician who has reached the heavens, display your brilliance and dazzle everyone with the ultimate performance! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Manifest, Rank 8! Entermage Trapeze Ultimate Magician (Light/Spellcaster/Xyz/Effect/ATK: 3800/DEF: 3000/R: 8/OU: 2)!"

A Monster somewhat resembling Trapeze Magician that was clad in a pure white outfit and holding a trapeze made out of crystal emerged from the portal and started swinging around the two Duelists, leaving a trail of multi-colored particles on its wake that illuminated the entire area.

"Rank 8, huh?" Yusho remarked with a smile. "Looks like Dennis has learned a new trick or two in preparation for the tournament. Kids these days grow up so fast…"

"Thanks to Troupe Force's effect, the summoned Monster gains 400 attack for every Monster sent to the Graveyard through my Spell Card's effect." Dennis stated. "Three Monsters were sent to the Graveyard, meaning Trapeze Ultimate Magician gains 1200 attack (Trapeze Ultimate Magician ATK: 3800→5000). Then, I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Trapeze Ultimate Magician's effect, which allows me to target a Spellcaster-type Xyz Monster on the field and have Ultimate Magician gain an additional attack for every two Ranks that Xyz Monster has. I will target itself, meaning Ultimate Magician can attack a grand total of five times since its Rank is 8."

[Five attacks from a 5000 attack Monster!?] Nico cried out. [The situation is looking very bleak for Kurosaki right now!]

"Now, it's time for battle!" Dennis exclaimed. "Go, Trapeze Ultimate Magician! Attack Final Fortress Falcon! Heaven Ascension Dive!"

"You won't take me down so easily!"

Shun said as he grabbed on one of Final Fortress Falcon's boosters, with the Monster taking off. As Trapeze Ultimate Magician swung in the air towards his Monster, Shun spotted an Action Card on top of one of the ruined temples surrounding the area. Without wasting time, he jumped down and landed on top of the temple, which however started crumbling. Running with all his might, he grabbed the Action Card and jumped off the collapsing roof as he placed it on his Duel Disk.

"I activate the Action Spell Rejuvenation!" Shun shouted as he landed on Final Fortress Falcon's back. "Through its effect, my Monster gains 800 attack during damage calculation (Final Fortress Falcon ATK: 4100→4900) and cannot be destroyed by this battle!"

Following Shun's words, Dennis's Monster struck Final Fortress Falcon, but failed to destroy it. However, the ensuing shockwave caused Shun to wince.

Shun – LP: 3000→2900

"As expected from Kurosaki, you managed to withstand the first attack." Dennis clapped. "However, what about the next one? Go, Trapeze Ultimate Magician!"

Trapeze Ultimate Magician's legs were surrounded by a torrent of energy as it shot towards Final Fortress Falcon, piercing through its body and destroying it, with the ensuing explosion sending Shun tumbling backwards.

Shun – LP: 2900→2000

"Here comes the third attack!" Dennis pointed at Shun. "Attack him directly, Trapeze Ultimate Magician!"

"I activate the Counter Trap Card Necro Raptors!" Shun declared. "Through its effect, the damage from your direct attack becomes 0 and I can Special Summon a "Raid Raptors" Monster from my Graveyard! Revive, Final Fortress Falcon in defense mode!"

Trapeze Ultimate Magician swung its trapeze at Shun, only to have its attack blocked by a semi-transparent barrier that suddenly appeared around him. Immediately afterwards, a portal appeared on Shun's field, with Final Fortress Falcon emerging from it.

"That's one sturdy fortress." Dennis remarked with a smile. "But my assault isn't finished yet! This is the fourth attack! Destroy Final Fortress Falcon once again, Trapeze Ultimate Magician!"

"I activate the effect of Guard Lanius in my hand!" Shun announced. "By sending it to the Graveyard, I can prevent Final Fortress Falcon's destruction by this battle!"

True enough, Trapeze Ultimate Magician struck Final Fortress Falcon's body with a barrage of kicks, but failed to inflict any damage on it.

"How stubborn…" Dennis grumbled. "Then, here comes the final attack! Take down his Final Fortress Falcon once and for all, Trapeze Ultimate Magician!"

Trapeze Ultimate Magician dashed forward and pierced Final Fortress Falcon with its trapeze, causing cracks to appear all over its body. Shortly afterwards, Final Fortress Falcon exploded.

"I guess this is good enough for now." Dennis said. "I end my turn with this."

"At this moment, Raptor's Wing Bomber's effect activates." Shun declared. "On the End Phase of the turn it was sent to the Graveyard because the equipped Monster was destroyed, I can inflict 1000 points of damage to my opponent!"

"That was a bad move." Dennis let out a sly smirk. "Trapeze Ultimate Magician's effect activates. When I'm about to receive effect damage, that damage is reduced to 0, my Monster gains attack equal to the amount of damage I would have taken and my opponent receives damage equal to half the amount of damage I would have taken!"

Following Dennis's words, Trapeze Ultimate Magician swung its trapeze, scattering the missiles that had materialized around Shun and were launched towards Dennis, with some of them striking Shun himself, who let out a grunt.

(Trapeze Ultimate Magician ATK: 5000→6000)

Shun – LP: 2000→1500

[With an unexpected reversal, Dennis further reduces his opponent's Life Points and strengthens his Monster!] Melissa exclaimed. [Kurosaki had best come up with a brilliant plan during his turn, or else Dennis will be all set to take him down next turn!]

"My turn!" Shun announced. "Draw! I summon Raid Raptors – Retrofit Lanius (ATK: 800/DEF: 1200/LV: 4)!"

The mechanical bird clad in light green armor with six rod-shaped wings extending from its body appeared on Shun's field.

"Through its effect, Retrofit Lanius can be treated as two Materials for the Xyz Summon of a "Raid Raptors" Monster." Shun continued. "As such, I will Overlay my Level 4 Retrofit Lanius!"

As Retrofit Lanius and a ghostly copy of it turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Shun chanted.

"Avian hunter of the afterlife! Seek the truth with your dark eyes and grasp glory with your sharp talons! Xyz Summon! Take flight, Rank 4! Raid Raptors – Force Strix (ATK: 100/DEF: 2000/R: 4/OU: 1) in defense mode!"

A small, mechanical owl appeared on Kurosaki's field.

"Due to the Pendulum Effects of Cluster Lanius and Scout Lanius, Force Strix gains 300 attack (Force Strix ATK: 100→400) and I can draw a card from my Deck." Shun stated. "I activate Force Strix's effect next, detaching an Overlay Unit in order to add a Level 4 or lower Winged Beast-type Monster from my Deck to my hand. I choose to add Raid Raptors – Necro Vulture to my hand. Then, I will Pendulum Summon! Come from my hand, Raid Raptors – Necro Vulture (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1600/LV: 4)!"

A single beam of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the form of Necro Vulture upon landing on Shun's field.

"I activate Necro Vulture's effect, releasing it in order to add a "Rank-Up-Magic" Spell Card from my Graveyard to my hand." Shun said. "I choose Rank-Up-Magic Raid Force and activate it. Through its effect, I will use Force Strix as material to reconstruct the Overlay Network!"

As Force Strix turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Shun chanted for the second time in a row.

"Unseen bold falcon! Reveal your wings' unknown power here and now! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Come forth, Rank 5! Raid Raptors – Étranger Falcon (ATK: 2000/DEF: 2000/R: 5/OU: 1)!"

The mechanical falcon with pulsating energy lines throughout its armor and oversized wings appeared on Shun's field.

"Through Cluster Lanius's Pendulum Effect, Étranger Falcon gains 300 attack (Étranger Falcon ATK: 2000→2300)." Shun stated. "Then, I detach an Overlay Unit from Étranger Falcon to activate its effect, which allows me to destroy a Monster on my opponent's field and inflict damage to them equal to its original attack. I will destroy your Trapeze Ultimate Magician. Do it, Étranger Falcon! Insurgency Impact!"

"Too bad." Dennis wagged his finger in a playful manner. "Thanks to its effect, Trapeze Ultimate Magician cannot be destroyed by card effects."

Following Dennis's words, a large, violet-colored beam erupted from Étranger Falcon's core. However, Trapeze Ultimate Magician batted it aside with a swiping motion, sending it upwards where it exploded into a rain of particles.

"Figures it wouldn't be so easy…" Shun grimaced. "I place two cards face-down and end my turn."

"Oi, oi, isn't that pretty bad?" Allen commented with a concerned look on his face. "If Dennis starts spamming out consecutive attacks again, I don't think Shun will be able to handle it."

"That's true, but we need to have faith in Shun." Sayaka said. "I'm sure he wasn't depending only on Étranger Falcon's effect."

"Brother…" Ruri muttered. "You'll be alright, won't you?"

"It looks like you're all out of tricks, so it's time for the climax." Dennis said. "As such, I'll be the one to draw the curtain on this show. It's my turn! Draw!"

"Don't be so hasty to declare victory." Shun said. "I activate the Continuous Trap Card Xyz Cursed Bind, whose effect allows me to target an Xyz Monster on the field and prevent it from declaring an attack, activating its effects or be used as Xyz Material. Of course, I will target your Trapeze Ultimate Magician, making your prized Monster useless."

"Oh my, that's a problem." Dennis had a troubled expression, but then let out a confident smile. "Fortunately, I have a solution right here. I activate the Spell Card Entermage Revival Line, whose effect allows me to shuffle an "Entermage" Monster on my field back to the Deck in order to Special Summon up to two "Entermage" Monsters from my Graveyard whose attack sum is equal to or lower than the returned Monster's original attack. I will shuffle Trapeze Ultimate Magician back to my Deck in order to Special Summon Entermage Trapeze High Magician and Entermage Mirror Conductor from my Graveyard!"

Following Dennis's words, Trapeze Ultimate Magician's body transformed into a magic circle, out of which emerged Trapeze High Magician and Mirror Conductor.

"Next, I summon Entermage String Figure (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 1)!"

String Figure appeared on Dennis's field next to his other two Monsters.

"I activate String Figure's effect, using it along with Trapeze High Magician and Mirror Conductor in order to perform a Fusion Summon!" As his two Monsters swirled inside a multi-colored vortex, Dennis chanted. "Artist soaring across the vast skies! Illusion concealed within the mirror! Merge with the infinitely form-changing strings that connect people, and raise the curtain for the most magnificent show! Fusion Summon! Show yourself, Level 10! The master of entertainment arts, Entermage Grand Showman (ATK: 3600/DEF: 3300/LV: 10)!"

The Monster clad in a formal crimson outfit with a large cape flowing from its back, which wore a top hat with a crystal mask attached to it and held a large staff in its right hand, appeared on Dennis's field from within an explosion of light and sparks.

[Dennis responds to Kurosaki's attempts to restrict him by bringing out yet another formidable Monster!] Nico announced. [Could this be the end for our fierce Xyz Duelist!?]

"Let's see you escape from this, Kurosaki." Dennis stated. "Battle! Grand Showman, take down Étranger Falcon! Glorious Apotheosis!"

"I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Rank-Up-Magic Recusant Force!" Shun exclaimed. "Through its effect, my Monster won't be destroyed by battle, the damage will be reduced to 0 and the Battle Phase will end following this battle!"

A multi-colored blast of energy erupted from Grand Showman's staff following Shun's words, but failed to destroy Étranger Falcon due to a semi-transparent barrier that appeared around it.

"There's not much I can do with the Battle Phase having ended…" Dennis grimaced. "And if I remember correctly from Kurosaki's Duel with Yukio, Recusant Force should have one more troublesome effect. However, I still have Grand Showman on the field. I end my turn with this."

"My turn!" Shun announced. "Draw! During my Standby Phase, Recusant Force's final effect activates. Through it, I can use Étranger Falcon as material in order to Xyz Summon a "Raid Raptors" Monster that's two Ranks higher than it!"

As Étranger Falcon turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Shun chanted.

"Indomitable falcon! Supported by the resolve of your comrades, become the trailblazer that will lead the oppressed to victory! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Charge forward, Rank 7! Raid Raptors – Arsenal Falcon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/R: 7/OU: 1)!"

The black-armored mechanical falcon with oversized wings appeared on Shun's field.

"Thanks to the Pendulum Effects of my Monsters, Arsenal Falcon gains 300 attack (Arsenal Falcon ATK: 2500→2800) and I can draw a card from my Deck." Shun said. "Then, I activate a second copy of Rank-Up-Magic Raid Force, using Arsenal Falcon as material to Xyz Summon a "Raid Raptors" Monster that's one Rank higher than it!"

As Arsenal Falcon turned into a stream of energy that was absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Shun chanted for a second time.

"Dauntless falcon! Ignite the flames of wrath and become an earth-scorching flash of light! Rank-Up Xyz Change! Take flight, Rank 8! Raid Raptors – Satellite Cannon Falcon (ATK: 3000/DEF: 2000/R: 8/OU: 2)!"

The mechanical falcon with oversized wings, whose body was covered by white armor, appeared on Shun's field.

"I'm getting some really nasty flashbacks here…" Dennis let out a nervous chuckle. "However, Grand Showman is unaffected by the effects of my opponent's Monsters, meaning you cannot use Satellite Cannon Falcon's effect against it."

"I wasn't planning to." Shun said. "Thanks to Cluster Lanius's Pendulum Effect, my Monster gains 300 attack for every Overlay Unit attached to it (Satellite Cannon Falcon ATK: 3000→3600). That means our Monsters's attacks are equal."

"If their attacks are equal…Grand Showman's attack-switching effect is useless." Dennis frowned. "This isn't good."

"Battle!" Shun exclaimed. "Satellite Cannon Falcon, attack Entermage Grand Showman! Eternal Avenge!"

"Counterattack, Grand Showman!" Dennis shouted. "Glorious Apotheosis!"

Satellite Cannon Falcon aimed its guns at Grand Showman and unleashed a volley of energy beams, while Grand Showman spun its baton, shooting out a multi-colored beam of light. Both attacks passed by each other and struck the opposing Monster, resulting in a thunderous explosion that obliterated both Monsters.

"Grand Showman…" Dennis grimaced. "But with this, your field is empty, Kurosaki. On my next turn—"

"There will be no next turn." Shun declared. "I'm settling things right now. Since a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster on my field was destroyed, I can activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Rank-Down-Magic Succession Force. Through its effect, I will use the destroyed Satellite Cannon Falcon and this card as material to Xyz Summon a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster that has a lower Rank than Satellite Cannon Falcon from my Extra Deck!"

As both Satellite Cannon Falcon and Succession Force turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Shun chanted for the third time in a row.

"Ferocious falcon! Break through this fierce battle and spread your wings! Destroy our gathering foes! Rank-Down Xyz Change! Appear, Rank 5! Raid Raptors – Blaze Falcon (ATK: 1000/DEF: 2000/R: 5/OU: 2)!"

The mechanical falcon clad in red armor appeared on Shun's field.

"Cluster Lanius's Pendulum Effect increases Blaze Falcon's attack by 600 since it has two Overlay Units (Blaze Falcon ATK: 1000→1600)." Shun stated as he jumped on Rise Falcon's back. "This is the end, Dennis! Go, Blaze Falcon! Raptor's Break of Thunderclap!"

"I won't give up so easily!" Dennis exclaimed as he started running towards an Action Card he had spotted. Jumping from the road he was on into a small bridge beneath him, Dennis grabbed an Action Card placed there. "Perfect! I activate the Action Spell Evasion, whose effect will negate your Monster's attack!"

"You won't escape me this time!" Shun declared as Blaze Falcon flew close to a building, allowing Shun to grab a card embedded at the edge of one of its walls. "I activate the Action Spell Unstoppable Rush! Through its effect, Blaze Falcon's attacks cannot be negated by card effects during this Battle Phase! Finish this, Blaze Falcon!"

Blaze Falcon was enveloped by flames as it charged forward, striking Dennis and sending him tumbling backwards until he crashed into an old temple's entrance.

Dennis – LP: 800→0

[Yet another Duel has reached its conclusion!] Nico announced as the crowd went wild. [The victor is Kurosaki Shun, meaning he gets to advance in the next round! Everyone, give a warm round of applause to our two Duelists!]

"I lost again, huh…?" Dennis sighed as he slowly stood up, limping somewhat due to the lingering pain he felt from Shun's last attack. "I just can't compete with you, Kurosaki. More importantly though, we left an important discussion unfinished."

Dennis lowered his head at Shun as he spoke.

"For getting your sister captured and for almost trying to kill you during the Friendship Cup…I sincerely apologize. I should have done this earlier, but I never found the proper time and place. I know this might not be enough, but this is all I can do for now. If you're not satisfied, feel free to hit me as much as you want until you are."

Shun was silent for a few seconds, and then placed his arm on Dennis's shoulders.

"Raise your head." Shun said with a small smile on his face. "I no longer bear a grudge towards you or Academia. I've grown tired of hatred and resentment. It would be for the best if we moved towards the future as comrades and friends."

"Kurosaki…" Dennis said with watered eyes. "Sniff… You've really mellowed out. Alright, it's settled! Since you're one of my friends now, I'll call you Shun-chan from now on!"

"Call me that and I'll plant you into the concrete head first."

"Aw, don't be so cold, Shun-chan!" Dennis patted Shun's back with a wide smile on his face. "I'll even let you call me Dennis-chan in return. How's that sound?"

"Hard pass." Shun said as he raised his fist in a menacing manner. "Last chance, Dennis."

"Tch, you're no fun…" Dennis pouted, but then his expression became serious once again. "In all seriousness, I'm grateful for your forgiveness. I swear I'll strive to make up for all my past misdeeds."

At that moment, the sound of the hoverplane was heard, prompting both youths to look up.

"Looks like my ride is here." Dennis turned to Shun. "I wish you luck, Kurosaki. I have a feeling the next round will be even more intense than this one."

"I have a feeling you're right."

After Dennis had taken his leave, Shun sat down on the steps of one of the still standing temples, awaiting the results of the next battles.

Meanwhile, at the volcano area…

"Well, well, I didn't expect to run into you out of all people."

Yukio addressed Rin, who matched his smirk with one of her own. Just as Yukio was lamenting the lack of action so far while traversing the volcano area, he had found himself almost face-to-face with Rin shortly after the conclusion of Dennis and Shun's Duel.

"It was unexpected, but this is a good opportunity." Rin remarked. "I faced you before when I was under the Doktor's control, but my memories of that time are fuzzy, not to mention I wasn't exactly at the top of my game then. This time, I'll show you the real Rin's strength, Yukio."

"I'm looking forward to it." Yukio said. "Even brainwashed, you were a fierce Duelist. I have a feeling this is going to be an intense Duel."

[It appears the pairing for the fourth match has already been decided!] Nico announced. [The Pendulum Dimension's Tachibana Yukio versus the Synchro Dimension's Rin! And don't forget, since Rin is a Duelist from Synchro, this match will be conducted as a Riding Duel!]

[Is everyone's blood pumping!?] Melissa shouted. [Because mine sure is! A hot-blooded Riding Duel is about to begin! With apologies to Yukio, since she's a person from my homeland and a girl, I will be cheering for Rin-chan! Now, time to transport both fighters' D-Wheels on the stage!]

After Melissa said so, two hoverplanes appeared above Yukio and Rin, with their bottom compartments opening. Out of them, two D-Wheels were lowered to the ground and were deposited next to the two Duelists. One was Yukio's personal D-Wheel, which was similar to the one he had used at the Friendship Cup, while the other was Rin's machine, a light green and dark blue D-Wheel with a streamlined design that had a bell-like ornament attached to the front. As both Duelists mounted their D-Wheels, Rin turned to Yukio.

"Yugo speaks highly of you, so I expect you to bring your A-game here." Rin said. "Anything else won't be permitted."

"Yes, ma'am." Yukio said with a smile. "I'll make sure not to disappoint."

[Both Duelists seem to be ready!] Nico announced. [Therefore, let's set up the course as well!]

Two pillars of fire suddenly erupted next to the two Duelists and shot forward, creating a makeshift road that circled most of the volcano area.

[Duel Mode, on. Auto-pilot, standby.]

Both D-Wheels materialized their energy blades as their riders revved them up. At the same time, a countdown appeared before the two Duelists. Once it reached zero, Melissa shouted.

[Riding Duel! Acceleration!]

Both Duelists shot forward following these words and shouted together.

[Duel!]

Rin – LP: 4000

Yukio – LP: 4000

[The Duel has finally begun!] Melissa announced. [As per the rules of Riding Duels, the one to take the first corner will be the one to take the first turn as well! Now, let's see who get to make the opening play!]

Yukio and Rin were neck and neck as they approached the first corner. However, just as Rin maneuvered into position to overtake Yukio, a nearby volcano erupted, spewing chunks of magma on the makeshift course. While Rin dodged them with no issues, she fell behind due to having to decelerate somewhat. As such, Yukio, who kept on accelerating despite the danger, passed her and took the first corner.

"The first turn is mine!" Yukio announced. "I'll start by placing the Scale 1 Violet Poison Magician (ATK: 1200/DEF: 2100/LV: 4/SC: 1) and the Scale 5 Wisdom-Eye Magician (ATK: 1500/DEF: 1500/LV: 4/SC: 5) in my Pendulum Scales!"

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

"I activate Wisdom-Eye Magician's Pendulum Effect, destroying it in order to place the Scale 7 Summoner Magician (ATK: 1600/DEF: 1200/LV: 4/SC: 7) from my Deck in my Pendulum Zone." Yukio continued. "Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 2 through 6! Guided by destiny's hand, cross the walls of space and time and manifest a new possibility! Pendulum Summon! Revive from the Extra Deck, Wisdom-Eye Magician!"

A single beam of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the form of Wisdom-Eye Magician.

"Next, I summon Synchronic Magician (ATK: 300/LV: 100/LV: 1/SC: 3)!"

Synchronic Magician appeared on Yukio's field next to Wisdom-Eye Magician.

"I activate Synchronic Magician's effect." Yukio declared. "Since it was summoned successfully, I can send a "Magician" Monster from my Deck to the Graveyard in order to increase this card's Level by an amount equal to the sent Monster's Level. I will discard the Level 2 Initiate Magician (Synchronic Magician LV: 1→3), and since it was sent to the Graveyard, its effect activates, allowing me to add a "Magician" Pendulum Monster from my Deck to my hand. I choose Life Magician. Then, I tune the Level 4 Wisdom-Eye Magician with the now Level 3 Synchronic Magician!"

As Wisdom-Eye Magician turned into four stars and Synchronic Magician turned into three rings surrounding them, Yukio chanted.

"Dragon with the dichromatic eyes! Take the strength of the meteor within your body and smash through our opponents! Synchro Summon! Be born, Level 7! The dragon who personifies the raging inferno, Odd-Eyes Meteorburst Dragon (ATK: 2500/DEF: 2000/LV: 7)!"

The dragon with dichromatic eyes and four flame-shaped protrusions extending from its back clad in crimson armor appeared on the field.

"Odd-Eyes Meteorburst Dragon's effect activates." Yukio stated. "When this card is Special Summoned, I can select one Monster in my Pendulum Zone and Special Summon it. I choose to Special Summon Summoner Magician in defense mode. Burst Call!"

A ring of fire appeared before Summoner Magician, who jumped through it and landed on Yukio's field.

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Yukio said. "Now then, show me what you've got, Rin."

"With pleasure." Rin grinned as she accelerated, passing Yukio. "My turn! Draw! I activate the Spell Card Wind Witch Sign, whose effect allows me to Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Wind Witch" Monster from my hand. Appear, Wind Witch – Hail Bell (ATK: 1800/DEF: 600/LV: 4)!"

Hail Bell materialized on Rin's field.

"Hail Bell's effect activates." Rin continued. "On the turn this card was summoned successfully, I can inflict 300 points of damage to you for every Monster you control, Yukio. You have two Monsters out, meaning you'll take 600 points of damage!"

Hail Bell unleashed a barrage of bullet-shaped hail that struck Yukio, causing him to wince.

Yukio – LP: 4000→3400

"This is just the beginning, so brace yourself." Rin smirked. "It's going to get even colder from this point on. I summon the Tuner Monster Wind Witch – Draft Bell (ATK: 900/DEF: 300/LV: 3)!"

Draft Bell appeared on Rin's field next to Hail Bell.

"Since I control at least one "Wind Witch" Monster, I can Special Summon this card from my hand." Rin stated. "Come, Wind Witch – Trainee Bell (ATK: 100/DEF: 300/LV: 1)!"

The child-like Monster clad in a frilly witch outfit and riding a small staff with two bells on its side appeared on Rin's field.

"I tune the Level 1 Trainee Bell and the Level 4 Hail Bell with the Level 3 Draft Bell!" As Trainee Bell and Hail Bell turned into one and four stars respectively while Draft Bell turned into three rings surrounding them, Rin chanted. "Winds of midwinter! Swirl on the cycle of seasons and blow through as the gentle breath of life! Synchro Summon! Appear, Level 8! Wind Witch – Spring Bell (ATK: 2600/DEF: 2000/LV: 8)!"

The magenta-colored armored female Monster, which had blade-shaped arms and a large bell with three rudder-shaped blades attached to it affixed to its bottom half, appeared on Rin's field.

"Since Trainee Bell was used as material for a Synchro Summon, I'll draw a card from my Deck." Rin declared. "Then, I activate Spring Bell's effect. Once per turn, I can target a "Wind Witch" Monster in my hand or Graveyard, in this case Hail Bell in my Graveyard, and inflict half its attack or defense to you as damage. Then, I can draw one card from my Deck for every 500 points of damage you received. However, thanks to Draft Bell's effect, the first time a "Wind Witch" Monster on my field inflicts effect damage to my opponent during the turn Draft Bell was used as Synchro Material, that damage is doubled. As such, you'll take Hail Bell's 1800 attack as damage!"

Following Rin's words, a twister surrounded by flower petals shot out of Spring Bell's body, striking Yukio's D-Wheel and sending it spinning as he fought to retain control.

Yukio – LP: 3400→1600

[Unbelievable!] Nico exclaimed. [Rin has not even finished her first turn and Tachibana Yukio's Life Points have already been depleted by more than half! Her effect damage-dealing strategy is showing its terrifying effectiveness!]

"Through Spring Bell's effect, I will draw three cards from my Deck." Rin stated. "Next, I activate the Spell Card Link Vent. Through its effect, if I control a "Wind Witch" Synchro Monster, I can banish a "Wind Witch" Tuner Monster and a "Wind Witch" non-Tuner Monster from my hand in order to Special Summon a "Wind Witch" Synchro Monster from my Extra Deck whose Level is equal to the banished Monsters' Levels. I will banish Wind Witch – Rime Bell (Wind/Spellcaster/Effect/ATK: 1300/DEF: 1600/LV: 4) and Wind Witch – Clear Bell (Wind/Spellcaster/Tuner/Effect/ATK: 800/DEF: 1350/LV: 3) to Special Summon Wind Witch – Winter Bell (ATK: 2400/DEF: 2000/LV: 7)!"

A twister of ice erupted on Rin's field, with Winter Bell emerging from it.

"I activate Winter Bell's effect, which allows me to copy Hail Bell's effect in my Graveyard until the end of this turn." Rin said. "Through it, I will deal 600 points of damage to you once again!"

A whirlwind filled with shards of ice was unleashed by Winter Bell, striking Yukio and almost sending him of course once again. However, Yukio was able to steady his D-Wheel once again, as well as grab an Action Card that was in his path.

Yukio – LP: 1600→1000

"Geez, Yukio is getting pulverized out there." Hiyama commented. "Don't recall him having that much trouble often."

"That Rin girl is playing it smart, trying to exhaust him early on before he has a chance to build his formation." Oboro remarked. "However, I don't think Yukio hasn't accounted for that. And low Life Points haven't stopped him before."

"We'll see about that." Daisuke. "Rin hasn't entered her Battle Phase just yet. She might have some other nasty surprises in store."

"Battle!" Rin exclaimed. "Spring Bell will attack Odd-Eyes Meteroburst Dragon!"

"Not so fast!" Yukio shouted. "I activate the Action Spell Lure! Through its effect, I will change the target of your attack to Summoner Magician!"

Spring Bell unleashed a hurricane of flower petals at Summoner Magician, destroying it.

"Winter Bell cannot match Meteorburst Dragon…" Rin muttered. "Can't be helped then. I place a card face-down and end my turn."

[With a well-formulated assault, Rin-chan has depleted three fourths of Yukio's Life Points in a single turn!] Melissa cheered. [That's our Rin-chan! Now then, how will Yukio respond to this!?]

"It's my turn!" Yukio announced as he accelerated, closing the distance with Rin. "Draw! I activate the Spell Card Pot of Greed in order to draw two cards from my Deck. Then, I place the Scale 8 Nexus Magician (ATK: 1200/DEF: 500/LV: 3/SC: 8) in my empty Pendulum Scale."

Nexus Magician rose to the top of Yukio's left column of light.

"Now I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 2 through 7." Yukio declared. "Pendulum Summon! Revive from the Extra Deck, Wisdom-Eye Magician and Summoner Magician!"

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

"Summoner Magician's effect activates, allowing me to add Chaos Karma Ritual Dragon from my Deck to my hand." Yukio continued. "Then, I activate the Ritual Spell Card Karma Manifestation, offering Summoner Magician and Wisdom-Eye Magician as tributes in order to Ritual Summon!"

The altar surrounded by three dragon statues appeared on Yukio's field, with his Monsters turning into particles and being absorbed by the rightmost statue. As a pillar of azure flames erupted from the altar, Yukio chanted.

"Ruthless dragon which dwells within the threads of destiny! With the ancient ritual, be revived in this battlefield and eliminate all those who defy you! Ritual Summon! Appear now, Level 8! Chaos Karma Ritual Dragon (ATK: 2800/DEF: 2000/LV: 8)!"

Yukio's ace Monster emerged from the pillar of fire and came to hover above him.

[Yukio's ace Monster, Chaos Karma Ritual Dragon, has appeared!] Nico announced. [Could this be the start of a reversal!?]

"I don't know about reversal, but it's definitely payback time." Yukio remarked. "I activate Chaos Karma's effect. Once per turn, I can destroy a Level 5 or higher Monster my opponent controls and deal half its attack or defense as damage to them. I will destroy Spring Bell and deal half of its attack as damage. Do it, Chaos Karma! Atropos Slash!"

Chaos Karma's claws elongated as it charged forward, tearing through Spring Bell and causing an explosion that engulfed Rin, causing her to cry out in pain.

Rin – LP: 4000→2700

"Battle!" Yukio exclaimed. "Chaos Karma Ritual Dragon, destroy Winter Bell! Samsara Breath!"

A wave of azure flames erupted from Chaos Karma's maw, vaporizing Winter Bell, while Rin grimaced due to several stray embers hitting her.

Rin – LP: 2700→2300

"As expected of Yukio, but I won't let you decided things here!" Rin shouted. "I activate the Trap Card Wind Witch Synthesis! Thanks to its effect, I can banish a "Wind Witch" Synchro Monster and a "Wind Witch" Tuner Monster from my field and/or Graveyard in order to Special Summon a "Wind Witch" Synchro Monster from my Extra Deck whose Level is equal to or lower than the Level sum of the banished Monsters! I will banish Winter Bell and Draft Bell in order to Special Summon Ascended Wind Witch – Zephyros Bell (ATK: 3300/DEF: 3050/LV: 10)!"

The magenta-colored Monster resembling a futuristic battleship with two cores resembling oversized bells on its sides, which had a female figure clad in a regal dress resembling a witch's outfit with four wings extending from its back sitting on its top, appeared on Rin's field.

"Not bad, Rin." Yukio praised his opponent. "I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"It's my turn!" Rin announced. "Draw! Using the Scale 1 Wind Witch – Gust Bell (ATK: 400/DEF: 1400/LV: 4/SC: 1) and the Scale 5 Wind Witch – Squall Bell (ATK: 500/DEF: 100/LV: 2/SC: 5), I Set the Pendulum Scale!"

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

"Next, I summon Wind Witch – Haze Bell (ATK: 900/DEF: 1200/LV: 3)!"

Haze Bell materialized on Rin's field following her words.

"Haze Bell's effect activates." Rin stated. "Through it, I can deal 200 points of damage to my opponent for every card in their hand. Since you have only one card, you'll receive 200 points of damage!"

Haze Bell swung its staff, unleashing a whirlwind that struck Yukio and caused him to grimace.

Yukio – LP: 1000→800

"I activate Gust Bell's Pendulum Effect." Rin continued. "Through it, I can Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Wind Witch" Monster from my Deck. In exchange, I cannot Pendulum Summon on the turn I used this effect. Come, Wind Witch – Ice Bell (ATK: 1000/DEF: 1000/LV: 4)!"

Ice Bell appeared on Rin's field next to Haze Bell.

"Ice Bell's effect activates." Rin grinned. "When this card is summoned successfully, I can deal 500 points of damage to my opponent!"

Yukio was struck by yet another whirlwind filled with ice shards that almost threw him off course and into a lava pool. However, he barely managed to regain control of his D-Wheel and avoid the hazardous obstacle.

Yukio – LP: 800→300

[Tachibana Yukio is on his last legs!] Nico announced. [Rin might just be one more hit away from victory, especial with the 3300 attack Zephyros Bell out!]

"That girl is impressive." Tokumatsu remarked while stroking his chin. "To be able to push Yukio, one of the two Duelists who overcame Zarc, so far is no small feat."

"However, Yukio thrives in such disadvantageous situations." Crow pointed out. "Rin might be in for a nasty surprise if she underestimates him."

"I'm far from finished." Rin stated. "I banish Spring Bell in my Graveyard to activate its effect, which allows me to draw cards from my Deck equal to the number of "Wind Witch" Monsters on my field, in this case three."

Rin drew three cards and let out a confident smirk.

"This is just what I needed. I activate the Spell Card Wind Witch Reincarnation, whose effect allows me to Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Wind Witch" Monster from my banish zone if I control at least one "Wind Witch" Monster. Revive, Draft Bell!"

A rift in space appeared above Rin, with Draft Bell emerging from it.

"With this, everything's set." Rin declared. "I tune the Level 4 Ice Bell and the Level 3 Haze Bell with the Level 3 Draft Bell!"

As Ice Bell and Haze Bell turned into four and three stars respectively while Draft Bell turned into three rings surrounding them, Rin chanted.

"The merciless wind heralding the advent of midwinter! Let your destructive impulses be freed by the bell's chime and rampage gracefully! Synchro Summon! Manifest yourself, Level 10! Ascended Wind Witch – Boreas Bell (ATK: 3100/DEF: 3000/LV: 10)!"

The dark blue-colored Monster resembling a futuristic battleship with three cores resembling oversized bells on its sides and front, which had a female figure clad in a regal dress resembling a witch's outfit with two wings extending from its back sitting on its top, appeared on Rin's field.

[Oh my, Rin has called out yet another Ascended Wind Witch Monster on her field!] Melissa exclaimed. [Could this be the end of the line for Yukio!?]

"Since I Synchro Summoned successfully, Squall Bell's Pendulum Effect activates, allowing me to draw cards from my Deck equal to the number of times I inflicted effect damage to my opponent prior to Boreas Bell's summoning, in this case two." Rin stated. "Next, I activate Boreas Bell's effect. Once per turn, I can deal 700 points of damage to my opponent for every Monster on their field, while Draft Bell's effect will double that damage. Since you control two Monsters, you'll receive 2800 points of damage and lose!"

"I'm afraid that won't be happening." Yukio declared with a confident expression. "I activate the Trap Card Damage Eraser, whose effect reduces the effect damage from Boreas Bell's effect to 0 and increases my Life Points by the same amount!"

A massive hailstorm erupted from Boreas Bell's body, which however was absorbed by a radar-like device that appeared in front of Yukio and transformed into a rain of golden-colored particles that enveloped him.

Yukio – LP: 300→3100

"You were keeping such a card in reserve, eh…" Rin grimaced. "Were you waiting for a large amount of effect damage to come your way before using it?"

"Sure was." Yukio grinned. "Just like most Duelists, your ending play involved a large amount of damage, so I was able to benefit immensely. Well, it would have been a different story if you had gone with a small amount of effect damage and forced me to use it."

"You seem to love taking risks." Rin smiled. "No wonder Yugo seems to like you. Peas in a pod and all that. Then, let's settle this through battle! I will—"

"Not so fast!" Yukio shouted. "At the start of my opponent's Battle Phase, I can activate the Trap Card Wonder World Calling! Through its effect, I can banish all Monsters on my field until the Battle Phase's end!"

Following Yukio's words, a large rift in space appeared above his field, consuming his two Monsters.

[What's this!?] Nico exclaimed. [Tachibana Yukio has left himself wide open! Even with his increased Life Points, a single attack from either one of Rin's Monsters will finish him off.]

"No, it won't." Rin let out a bitter smile. "Still, better get this out the way now instead of dealing with it later. Go, Boreas Bell! Attack Yukio directly!"

"I activate the effect of Life Magician in my hand!" Yukio exclaimed. "When I'm about to receive damage, I can Special Summon this card from my hand in order to reduce that damage to 0 and gain Life Points equal to the amount of damage I would have received! Come, Life Magician (ATK: 0/DEF: 0/LV: 3/SC: 4) in defense mode!"

Life Magician appeared on Yukio's field, swinging its staff to conjure a barrier that absorbed Boreas Bell's attack. The barrier then turned into a rain of particles that enveloped Yukio.

Yukio – LP: 3100→6200

"Quite greedy, aren't you?" Rin remarked. "You've recovered even more Life Points than the ones you lost."

"What can I say?" Yukio shrugged as he accelerated, approaching Rin. "I was taught that more is usually better than less."

"I see." Rin said. "In any case, my Battle Phase isn't over yet. Go, Zephyros Bell! Destroy Life Magician!"

Several wind blades shot out of Zephyros Bell's body, shredding Life Magician.

"With the Battle Phase's end, Wonder World Calling's effect ends, allowing me to Special Summoned the Monsters banished by its effect." Yukio stated as a large portal appeared behind him, with Chaos Karma and Meteorburst Dragon emerging from it. "Moreover, thanks to its second effect, I can draw a card from my Deck for every banished Monster."

"I place two cards face-down and end my turn." Rin said.

[Despite being at the brink of defeat due to Rin's continued damage-dealing effects, Tachibana Yukio managed to reverse the situation in a splendid manner!] Nico exclaimed. [With the next turn coming up, one can only wonder what sort of tactics both Duelists will use to get and edge over the other!]

"My turn!" Yukio announced. "Draw! First off, I—"

"I activate the Trap Card Wind Witch Haunt!" Rin cut off Yukio's words. "Through its effect, Special Summoned "Wind Witch" Monsters on my field cannot be destroyed by battle or card effects for this turn! Moreover, each time you attack a Special Summoned "Wind Witch" Monster on my field, you must destroy one of your Monsters after damage calculation!"

"You already took action to protect your Monsters against Chaos Karma's effect, eh…?" Yukio murmured. "However, that won't be enough to stop me. First, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Revive from the Extra Deck, Wisdom-Eye Magician and Summoner Magician! And from my hand, come, Nobledragon Magician (ATK: 700/DEF: 1400/LV: 3/SC: 5)!"

Three beams of light erupted from the Pendulum portal, solidifying into the forms of Yukio's Monsters.

"Summoner Magician's effect activates, allowing me to add the Ritual Spell Card Ritual of Reincarnation." Yukio continued. "Then, I will tune the Level 7 Odd-Eyes Meteorburst Dragon with the Level 3 Nobledragon Magician!"

As Meteorburst Dragon turned into seven stars and Nobledragon Magician turned into three rings surrounding them, Yukio chanted.

"Dragon with the dual-colored eyes! Eradicate the souls of the gods with your accursed blaze and mark the approaching end times! Synchro Summon! Emerge, Level 10! The furious dragon hosting the sinful flames of Hell, Odd-Eyes Muspelheim Dragon (ATK: 3300/DEF: 2400/LV: 10)!"

The dragon whose body was colored black like basalt with several veins made of liquid fire running through it and had four horn-like protrusions extending from its back along with a crystal orb on its chest appeared on Yukio's field.

"Odd-Eyes Muspelheim Dragon's effect activates." Yukio declared. "When this card is summoned successfully, all cards in both players' Pendulum Zones are destroyed and my Monster gains attack equal to the sum of the destroyed Monsters' Scale Value multiplied by 100 until the End Phase. Soul-Devouring Flame!"

Tongues of flames emerged from the dragon's horn-like protrusions, destroying the cards on both players' Pendulum Zones, with the remains being absorbed by Muspelheim Dragon.

(Muspelheim Dragon ATK: 3300→4800)

"This doesn't look good." Rin remarked. "Then, I'll use this as well. Since I control at least two "Wind Witch" Synchro Monsters, I can activate the Continuous Trap Card Ice Crystal Fortress. Through its effect, all battle damage I receive from battles involving "Wind Witch" Monsters I control is halved, while my opponent receives 500 points of damage each time they attack a "Wind Witch" Monster I control."

"Wind Witch Haunt forces me to destroy one of my Monsters, while Ice Crystal Fortress halves battle damage and damages me instead." Yukio said. "It's a good formation, but not good enough to stop me. Now, let's battle! Odd-Eyes Muspelheim Dragon, attack Boreas Bell! Laevateinn Holocaust!"

Following Yukio's command, Odd-Eyes Muspelheim Dragon unleashed a wave of crimson flames from its maw, striking Boreas Bell. While it failed to destroy it, the ensuing shockwave caused Rin to briefly lose control of her D-Wheel as it spun.

Rin – LP: 2300→1450

"Ice Crystal Fortress and Wind Witch Haunt's effects activate." Rin declared. "You'll receive 500 points of damage and will have to destroy a Monster on your field."

"In that case, I'll destroy Wisdom-Eye Magician."

Several spear-shaped ice crystals appeared around Rin and shot forward, piercing Wisdom-Eye Magician and striking Yukio, who let out a grunt.

Yukio – LP: 6200→5700

"Due to its effect, Muspelheim Dragon can attack all Monsters my opponent controls once each." Yukio stated. "In exchange, no other Monster on my field can declare an attack. As such, Muspelheim Dragon will attack Zephyros Bell! Laevateinn Holocaust!"

The previous scene was repeated once again as Muspelheim Dragon's flame breath struck Zephyros Bell, but failed to destroy it, with Rin letting out a cry of pain due to some stray embers striking her.

Rin – LP: 1450→700

"My Traps' effects…activate once again…" Rin wheezed out. "Choose which Monster…you want to destroy…"

"Obviously, I will destroy Summoner Magician."

Following Yukio's words, both him and his Monster were struck by several ice spears, with the latter being shredded to pieces.

Yukio – LP: 5700→5200

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Yukio said. "Muspelheim Dragon's effect also ends, returning its attack to normal (Muspelheim Dragon ATK: 4800→3300)."

"Ice Crystal Fortress's other effect activates as well." Rin declared. "Through it, I gain 300 Life Points for every different "Wind Witch" Monster that was attacked on this turn's Battle Phase. Since two Monsters were attack, I'll regain 600 Life Points."

Rin – LP: 700→1300

[Despite a relentless assault that would have normally been the end for her, Rin-chan managed to hold on and even damage Yukio in the process!] Melissa cheered. [As expected, she's no pushover, everyone! Now then, what will she show us next!?]

"My turn!" Rin announced. "Draw! I activate the effect of Wind Witch Haunt in my Graveyard, banishing it in order to draw a card from my Deck for every "Wind Witch" Synchro Monster on my field, in this case two. Then, I summon Wind Witch – Glass Bell (ATK: 1500/DEF: 1500/LV: 4)!"

Glass Bell appeared on Rin's field next to her other two Monsters.

"Glass Bell's effect activates, allowing me to add a "Wind Witch" Monster from my Deck to my hand." Rin continued. "I choose Wind Witch – Blizzard Bell, and since it was added to my hand through the effect of a "Wind Witch" Monster, I can Special Summon it (Wind/Spellcaster/Effect/ATK: 1000/DEF: 1800/LV: 4)!"

A female Monster clad in a witch's outfit, which was surrounded by a small blizzard and rode a wand with a pure white bell attached to its end, appeared on Rin's field.

"Next, I activate Boreas Bell's effect." Rin stated. "Through it, you'll receive 700 points of damage for every Monster on your field. Take this! Negative Over Frost!"

Boreas Bell unleashed a wind blast that struck Yukio, almost blowing him off course as he let out a cry of pain.

Yukio – LP: 5200→3800

"Time for one of my special moves." Rin said. "I activate the Ritual Spell Card En Wind Ritual, offering Blizzard Bell and Glass Bell as tributes in order to Ritual Summon!"

An ornate altar with several green gems embedded on it and several columns comprised of several rings appeared on Rin's field, with her Monsters turning into particles and being absorbed by it. As a raging tornado erupted from it, Rin chanted.

"Divine ruler of the arctic citadel! Answer the call of the ritual, and manifest on this earthly plain with the wind's blessing! Ritual Summon! Appear, Level 8! Wind Witch – Khione Maiden (ATK: 2900/DEF: 2600/LV: 8)!"

The beautiful female Monster with long, blue hair that was clad in dark blue armor reminiscent of a witch's robe and held a staff with runes engraved on it appeared on Rin's field.

"Since it was sent to the Graveyard, Blizzard Bell's effect activates." Rin said. "Through it, all "Wind Witch" Monsters on my field gain 700 attack if my opponent received effect damage from the effect of a "Wind Witch" Monster during this turn (Khione Maiden ATK: 2900→3600, Boreas Bell ATK: 3100→3800, Zephyros Bell ATK: 3300→4000)."

[Rin has further increased her Monsters' attack, strengthening her formation even more!] Nico announced. [Once again, Tachibana Yukio finds himself in a very tight spot!]

"Battle!" Rin exclaimed. "Zephyros Bell, destroy Odd-Eyes Muspelheim Dragon! Ultima Hurricane!"

Zephyros Bell extended its arms forward, conjuring a large sphere of violent wind that struck Muspelheim Dragon despite its attempts to avoid it. Some gusts of wind struck Yukio's D-Wheel as well, causing it to start spinning uncontrollably for a brief period of time.

Yukio – LP: 3800→3100

"Muspelheim Dragon's effect activates, dealing you damage equal to double the amount of damage I took from this battle." Yukio said. "Or at least that's what would happen if it wasn't for Khione Maiden's effect, right?"

"You remembered." Rin smiled. "Indeed, thanks to Khione Maiden's effect, all effect damage is reduced to 0, so Meteorburst Dragon's effect won't apply."

"In that case, I'd best prepare for the latter part…" Yukio muttered. "I activate the Trap Card Miracle Scale, whose effect allows me to target two Pendulum Monsters in my Extra Deck and place them in my Pendulum Zones. I choose Violet Poison Magician and Wisdom-Eye Magician!"

The two columns of light appeared once again on Yukio's field, with his two Monsters rising to their top.

"I'm not sure what you're up to, but you won't stop the storm so easily." Rin declared. "Go, Boreas Bell! Destroy Chaos Karma Ritual Dragon! Thousand Frozen Burial!"

"I won't allow that!"

Upon saying so, Yukio accelerated towards a rock formation resembling a makeshift ramp, using it to soar into the air and grab an Action Card hovering above the course. At the same time, Rin tilted her D-Wheel, grabbing an Action Card that was embedded near the bank of a lava river.

"I activate the Action Spell Flame Armor!" Yukio announced. "Thanks to its effect, Chaos Karma's attack is increased by 400 (Chaos Karma ATK: 2800→3200) and it cannot be destroyed by battle until the End Phase!"

"Mine isn't that good for now…" Rin frowned. "I activate the Action Spell Flame Jail, whose effect negates Chaos Karma's effects for as long as it remains on the field! Now, continue, Boreas Bell!"

Rin's Monster raised its arms high, generating numerous stalagmites from the ground that struck Chaos Karma, but failed to pierce its flaming armor. However, some stray stalagmites struck Yukio, causing him to grimace.

Yukio – LP: 3100→2500

"Here comes the last one!" Rin shouted. "Go, Khione Maiden! Attack Chaos Karma! Revelation All Zero!"

Khione Maiden swung its staff, unleashing a wave of frost that struck Chaos Karma, but failed to affect it in any manner. However, the ensuing shockwave caused Yukio to wince from the pain.

Yukio – LP: 2500→2100

"I place a card face-down and end my turn." Rin said. "At this moment, Khione Maiden's effect activates, dealing you effect damage equal to the amount of effect damage it negated during this turn, in this case 1400 points of damage!"

"I banish Miracle Scale in my Graveyard to activate its effect!" Yukio declared. "Through it, if either of the cards placed in my Pendulum Zones through this card's effect are present, I can halve an instance of damage!"

Khione Maiden swung its staff again, summoning a rain of ice bullets that were aimed at Yukio. Although half of them dissipated upon striking a barrier that formed around Yukio, the rest went through and struck him, causing him to hiss in pain.

Yukio – LP: 2100→1400

[Rin-chan brought Yukio's Life Points down once again and has driven him into a corner!] Melissa exclaimed. [However, Yukio still has his ace Monster on the field along with a functioning Pendulum Scale, so I wouldn't write him off just yet!]

"Smart of you to do so." Yukio remarked. "My turn! Draw! I activate Wisdom-Eye Magician's Pendulum Effect, destroying it in order to place Iris Magician (ATK: 1500/DEF: 1000/LV: 4/SC: 8) from my Deck to my Pendulum Zone!"

Wisdom-Eye Magician vanished from Yukio's left Pendulum Zone, with Iris Magician taking its place.

"With my current Scale, I can simultaneously summon Monsters with Levels 2 through 7." Yukio announced. "Pendulum Summon! Revive from the Extra Deck, Summoner Magician, Wisdom-Eye Magician and Nexus Magician!"

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

"Summoner Magician's effect activates, allowing me to add Disaster Karma from my Deck to my hand." Yukio continued. "Then, I activate the Spell Card Ritual Amendment, whose effect allows me to send a Ritual Spell Card from my hand to the Graveyard in order to add another Ritual Spell Card from my Graveyard to my hand. I will discard Ritual of Reincarnation to add Karma Manifestation to my hand. Moreover, since I control a Ritual Monster, Ritual Amendment's effect also allows me to draw a card from my Deck."

"Here it comes." Daisuke commented. "The evolved Chaos Karma, that is."

"I activate Karma Manifestation, offering Chaos Karma and Summoner Magician as tributes in order to Ritual Summon!" As his two Monsters turned into particles of light that were absorbed by the leftmost dragon statue, Yukio chanted. "Malevolent dragon that is the harbinger of calamity! Heed my prayer with this ritual and emerge from the chaos of indeterminacy to annihilate all that stands in your path! Ritual Summon! Descend now, Level 10! Disaster Karma Ritual Dragon (ATK: 3300/DEF: 2600/LV: 10)!"

Chaos Karma's evolved form appeared on Yukio's field, letting out a furious howl.

"I'm not finished just yet." Yukio smirked. "I Overlay the Level 4 Wisdom-Eye Magician and Nexus Magician!"

As her two Monsters turned into streams of energy that were absorbed by the galaxy-like portal, Yukio chanted for the second time.

"Sorcerer of tranquility, descend forth as the messenger of peace and let the radiance of the ever-distant utopia envelop this world! Xyz Summon! Appear before us, Rank 4! Serenity Magician (ATK: 2600/DEF: 1000/R: 4)!"

Serenity Magician appeared on Yukio's field next to Disaster Karma.

[Two powerful Monsters have been summoned in quick succession!] Nico announced. [With Disaster Karma taking the field, it seems Yukio is poised for a fierce counterattack!]

"I activate Disaster Karma Ritual Dragon's effect." Yukio declared. "Once per turn, I can destroy all other Level 5 or higher Monsters on the field and deal 400 points of damage to their controller. Rin, I will destroy your three Monsters and inflict 1200 points of damage to you! Do it, Disaster Karma! Creation Purge!"

The gems of Disaster Karma's armor shone, unleashing a large number of crimson bolts that bombarded Rin's field and destroyed all her Monsters, with several stray shots hitting her as well. As her D-Wheel slowed down, Yukio took this opportunity to overtake her.

Rin – LP: 1300→100

"As always, that's a brutal effect…" Rin grimaced. "However, since it was destroyed, Zephyros Bell's effect activates. Through it—"

"Useless!" Yukio cut off Rin. "I detach an Overlay Unit to activate Serenity Magician's effect! Through it, the activation of Zephyros Bell's effect is negated and you cannot activate Monster effects for the rest of this turn! Tranquil Wave!"

Serenity Magician raised its staff, releasing a radiance that enveloped Rin's field.

[Rin-chan is in a big pinch!] Melissa cried out. [With no Monsters left to defend her, one direct attack from Yukio will be enough to finish this!]

"Battle!" Yukio exclaimed as he turned his D-Wheel to face Rin. "Disaster Karma Ritual Dragon, attack Rin directly and finish her! Kalasutra Immolation!"

"Not yet!" Rin shouted. "I activate Ice Crystal Fortress's final effect! By sending it to the Graveyard, I can end the Battle Phase and have my opponent draw cards equal to the number of Monsters they have on the field, in this case two!"

"Good going, Rin!" Yugo cheered. "I knew you wouldn't get defeated by just that much!"

"I can't do anything else for now." Yukio said. "I place a card face-down and end my turn."

"Then, it's my turn!" Rin announced. "Draw!"

A sly smirk appeared on Rin's face as she checked her hand. She figured this could work as long as the conditions were met.

"I activate the Spell Card Absolute Zero Point." Rin declared. "Through its effect, if a "Wind Witch" Monster on my field was destroyed during the previous turn, I can destroy all Monsters on my opponent's field. In exchange—I'll receive 600 points of damage for every destroyed Monster!"

[What's this!?] Nico exclaimed. [Rin has activated a Spell Card that will deplete her Life Points should its effect go through! What on Earth could she be planning!?]

Yukio could only wonder the same. Since he had two Monsters on his field, Rin would receive 1200 points of damage once they were destroyed, resulting in her loss. It was only safe to assume she had a plan, but he couldn't see it. Her expression radiated confidence and certainty, meaning he couldn't take his chances here.

"I…activate Serenity Magician's effect by detaching its last Overlay Unit!" Yukio declared. "Through it, your Spell Card's effect is negated and you cannot activate Spell Cards for the rest of this turn! Tranquil Wave!"

Serenity Magician raised its staff high, generating a pulse of energy that destroyed Rin's card.

"You fell for it, Yukio." Rin grinned. "Since you wasted Serenity Magician's effect, I can now activate the Continuous Trap Card Casket of Aeolus. Through its effect, I can banish a "Wind Witch" Synchro Monster from my Graveyard, in this case Zephyros Bell, in order to Special Summon a "Wind Witch" Synchro Monster from my Extra Deck with the same Level as it by ignoring its summoning conditions. Come forth, Ascended Wind Witch – Notus Bell (Wind/Spellcaster/Synchro/Effect/ATK: 3400/DEF: 2250/LV: 10)!"

A reddish brown-colored Monster resembling a futuristic battleship with a single core resembling an oversized bell on its front, which had a female figure clad in a regal dress resembling a witch's outfit with eight wings extending from its back sitting on its top, appeared on Rin's field. Upon seeing this, Yukio laughed.

"You tricked me, you little vixen." Yukio smiled. "That was a pretty gutsy move and quite the gamble. If I had not taken the bait, you would have lost the Duel."

"If you're aiming for the top, you'd best be prepared to take some risks to get there." Rin said. "That's one of the creeds we Commons lived by. In order to defeat you, such a tactic was necessary."

"No wonder Yugo likes you…" Yukio muttered before turning to Rin. "Your gamble may have paid off, but you're still far from defeating me."

"In that case, I'll advance a few more steps down that path." Rin declared. "I activate Notus Bell's effect. Once per turn, I can inflict damage to my opponent equal to the difference between this card's attack and the attack of each Monster on my opponent's field, while I gain Life Points equal to that amount. In exchange, Notus Bell cannot attack on the turn I used this effect. Do it, Notus Bell! Whisking Sirocco!"

Several vents opened on Notus Bell's body, unleashing a sandstorm that struck Yukio, almost sending him flying off the course. At the same time, Rin was enveloped by a viridian aura.

Yukio – LP: 1400→500

Rin – LP: 100→1000

"Notus Bell's effect doesn't end here." Rin continued. "On the turn when my opponent received effect damage by the effect of a "Wind Witch" Monster, I can activate Notus Bell's second effect to banish all other Monsters on the field. In exchange, I cannot conduct my Battle Phase. Do it, Notus Bell!"

Following Rin's words, a massive whirlwind enveloped the field, blowing Yukio's Monsters away and causing them to dissolve into particles of light.

"That's good enough for now." Rin remarked. "I end my turn with this."

"She's good, that Rin girl." Shinji commented. "She fooled Yukio and took the lead once again with her tactics."

"You said it." Crow said next to him. "I thought Yukio had this in the bag at first, but now, I can't tell who'll win this."

"My turn!" Yukio announced as he accelerated his D-Wheel. "Draw! That was a pretty good move back there, so it's only fitting that I do my best as well. First, I will Pendulum Summon once again! Revive from the Extra Deck, Summoner Magician and Life Magician! And from my hand, come forth, Wraith Magician (ATK: 1700/DEF: 2100/LV: 5/SC: 2) and the Tuner Monster Accel Magician (ATK: 200/DEF: 700/LV: 2/SC: 1)!"

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

"I won't allow you to counterattack here!" Rin shouted. "I activate Notus Bell's final effect! When my opponent Special Summons Monsters, I can banish this card in order to negate those Monsters' summon! In exchange, my opponent gains 500 Life Points for every Monster whose summon was negated! Go, Notus Bell! Vacuum Collapse!"

Notus Bell's body distorted and collapsed on itself, forming a hole that drew in and consumed Yukio's Monsters, leaving his field empty. At the same time, Yukio was enveloped by a cerulean aura.

Yukio – LP: 500→2500

[Oh my, that was an unexpected move!] Melissa exclaimed. [Rin-chan sacrificed a powerful Monster, but wiped out Yukio's field before he had a chance to make a move in exchange! As expected of Rin-chan!]

"I don't have a Monster powerful enough to wipe out Rin's Life Points, not to mention it's risky to attack like this…" Yukio murmured. "I Set a Monster and end my turn."

"Then, it's time to end this." Rin declared. "My turn! Draw! I activate the Spell Card Wind Witch's Secret Remedy, whose effect allows me to draw four cards from my Deck if I have no Monsters on my field and there is at least one "Wind Witch" Monster in my Graveyard. Then, I summon the I summon the Tuner Monster Wind Witch – Snow Bell (ATK: 100/DEF: 100/LV: 1)!"

The bell-shaped Monster appeared on Rin's field.

"Since I control a "Wind Witch" Monster, I can Special Summon this card from my hand." Rin continued. "Come, the second copy of Wind Witch – Trainee Bell!"

Trainee Bell appeared on Rin's field next to Snow Bell.

"I tune the Level 1 Trainee Bell with the Level 1 Snow Bell!" As Trainee Bell turned into a single star and Snow Bell turned into a single ring surrounding it, Rin chanted. "Wind of change, ring the bell of advent and let out a clear echo! Synchro Summon! Manifest, Level 2! Synchro Tuner, Wind Witch – Herald Bell (ATK: 1000/DEF: 500/LV: 2)!"

The golden bell with white lines engraved on it and two energy feathers growing from its back appeared on Rin's field.

"A Synchro Tuner…" Yukio frowned. "This means Rin's strongest Monster is coming next…"

"Since Trainee Bell was used as material for the Synchro Summon of a "Wind Witch" Monster, I can draw a card from my Deck." Rin stated. "Next, I activate Herald Bell's effect. If this card is Synchro Summoned successfully, I can Special Summon a Synchro Monster from my Graveyard with its effects negated and its attack and defense at 0. Revive, Boreas Bell!"

A portal appeared on Rin's field, with Boreas Bell emerging from it.

"The main event starts from here!" Rin announced as she accelerated even further with streams of light appearing around her. "I tune the Level 10 Boreas Bell with the Level 2 Synchro Tuner Herald Bell!"

As Boreas Bell turned into ten stars and Herald Bell turned into two massive rings that enveloped the entire lane, Rin chanted.

"Indomitable winds of soul blowing from the four corners of the Earth! Answer the bell's summons and transcend as the avatar of the divine storm! Accel Synchro Summon!"

Following her words, Rin and her D-Wheel suddenly disappeared within a bright flash of light. Moments later, she reappeared behind Yukio, accompanied by a raging tornado.

"Manifest now, Level 12! Supreme Wind Witch – Ninlil Bell (ATK: 3600/DEF: 3200/LV: 12)!"

The tornado dispersed, revealing the majestic form of a female figure clad in a regal outfit somewhat reminiscent of a witch robe, which had six multi-colored winds extending from its back, a jeweled crown on its head and held an ornate staff with two crystal bells at its end.

[Here it is, here it is, here it is!] Melissa exclaimed. [It's the fabled Accel Synchro Summon, bringing forth Rin-chan's strongest Monster, Ninlil Bell! Yukio could be in some serious trouble right now!]

"I activate Ninlil Bell's effect." Rin declared. "Once per turn, if my Life Points are lower than my opponent's, I can inflict damage to them equal to my Life Points. Therefore, receive 1000 points of damage, Yukio! Celestial Chime!"

Ninlil Bell raised its staff high, generating a sound wave from the two bells on its tip that struck Yukio, with the silver-haired youth letting out a cry of pain.

Yukio – LP: 2500→1500

"Next, I activate the Spell Card Raging Wind." Rin stated. "Through its effect, if I control a Level 8 or higher "Wind Witch" Synchro Monster, I can banish all Spell and Trap Cards on my opponent's field."

Following Rin's words, several tornados erupted from her Spell Card, destroying Yukio's Pendulum cards and his face-down card.

"Then, I activate the Equip Spell Card Wind Witch Raiment, equipping it to Ninlil Bell." Rin continued. "Now, let's battle! Ninlil Bell, destroy Yukio's Set Monster! God Tempest!"

Ninlil Bell pointed its staff at Yukio's face-down Monster, which was revealed to be Barrier Magician (ATK: 0/DEF: 400/LV: 1) conjuring a storm that tore it to pieces with ease.

"At this moment, the effect of the equipped Wind Witch Raiment activates." Rin said. "Each time Ninlil Bell destroys a Monster, you'll receive 500 points of damage!"

Following Rin's words, Ninlil Bell swung its arm, generating several wind blades that slashed Yukio and caused him to grimace.

Yukio – LP: 1500→1000

Both Duelists spotted Action Cards ahead of them and accelerated their D-Wheels. Although Yukio tried to ram Rin so that she'd miss her Action Card, she evaded him with her deft maneuvering, grabbing the first Action Card. As for Yukio, his attempt almost cost him the Action Card, which he barely caught.

"Nice!" Rin cheered. "I activate the Action Spell Wonder Chance, whose effect allows me to have Ninlil Bell attack you once again!"

"My Action Card is…" Yukio checked his Action Card, only for his expression to fall. "Kuh, it's the Action Trap Purgatory Flame, which inflicts 500 points of damage to me…"

Several spheres of crimson flame shot out of the Action Card, striking Yukio and causing him to cry out in pain.

Yukio – LP: 1000→500

"Looks like it's the end of the line for you, Yukio." Rin declared. "Finish him off, Ninlil Bell! God Tempest!"

"In that case, I activate the effect of the Trap Card Battle Tendency in the Graveyard!" Yukio exclaimed. "By banishing it, I can send three cards from the top of my Deck to the Graveyard in order to end the Battle Phase and have you gain 400 Life Points for every Monster on your field!"

A semi-transparent wall appeared before Yukio, shielding him from Ninlil Bell's attack. At the same time, Rin was surrounded by a multi-colored aura.

Rin – LP: 1000→1400

"You managed to hold on despite your bad luck, eh?" Rin smiled. "As expected from one of the most tenacious Lancers. I may not be able to defeat you here, but I will impede you even further. I activate the Continuous Spell Card Aurora Line, whose effect allows me to negate an attack towards a "Wind Witch" Monster I control once per turn. I end my turn, with Ninlil Bell's effect activating. Since I failed to inflict battle damage to you, your Life Points will be halved. Storm Punisher!"

Several raging twisters descended from the sky, striking Yukio's D-Wheel and causing him to grimace from the impact.

Yukio – LP: 500→250

"Wind Witch Secret Remedy's effect also activates." Rin said. "I'll send all remaining cards in my hand to the Graveyard."

[With overwhelming power, Rin has driven Tachibana Yukio into a corner!] Nico exclaimed. [Keep your eyes peeled, folks, because I have a feeling that the outcome of this Duel will be decided on this turn!]

"If the outcome is to be decided now…I'll overcome this situation with a bang!" Yukio declared. "My turn! Draw!"

Upon checking out his drawn card, Yukio had an unreadable expression on his face, which then morphed into a small smirk.

"This could work, though I wish I could have saved it for later." Yukio remarked. "Rin, I'm going to show something really interesting."

"Oh?" Rin raised an eyebrow. "Something interesting, you say? Looks like you had a good draw. Then, come at me with everything you've got!"

"As you wish." Yukio said. "The Monster in my hand can be Ritual Summoned by banishing Chaos Karma Ritual Dragon and Karma Manifestation from my Graveyard. Bear witness to a new possibility born from the Heavenly Dragon of Ritual!"

A massive magic circle appeared on Yukio's field, with Chaos Karma's specter being absorbed by it. As a towering pillar of golden flames erupted from its center, Yukio chanted.

"Ruthless dragon residing in the threads of fate! Cross the boundaries of destiny under the guidance of the long-lost ritual and be reborn as a future guardian! Phantom Ritual Summon! Come forth, Level 10! Requiem Karma Ritual Dragon (Dark/Dragon/Ritual/Effect/ATK: 3000/DEF: 3000/LV: 10)!"

An oversized dragon somewhat resembling Chaos Karma, which was clad in thick azure and silver-colored armor and had wings and claws made out golden flames sprouting from its back and limbs respectively, appeared on Yukio's field, letting out a sonorous roar.

"What is that…?" Yuya wondered upon seeing the Monster on Yukio's field. "A new evolution of Chaos Karma…?"

"Requiem Karma…" Yuri let out a sly smirk. "Seriously, you never fail to entertain, Yukio."

[Despite the odds against it, Yukio has summoned a powerful new Monster!] Melissa announced. [However, is it strong enough to overcome Rin's Ninlil Bell!? No, to begin with, can it go past the barrier of Rin's Spell Card!? What sort of intricate tactics will Yukio show us next!?]

"I end my turn with that."

Yukio's abrupt announcement stunned everyone watching into silence. Amidst this atmosphere, Nico was the first one to respond.

[W-What's the meaning of this!? Tachibana Yukio brought forth a seemingly powerful Monster, yet did nothing with it! Is this part of his strategy!? Or has he perhaps made a misplay!?]

"What are you planning?" Rin asked Yukio as she brought her D-Wheel next to his. "There's no way you'd make a misplay."

"It's simple really." Yukio grinned. "Requiem Karma cannot declare an attack, and it also cannot be targeted for an attack by my opponent's Monsters. As such, a single direct attack for you will be enough to finish me off. However, I wonder if it will be that easy?"

"Huh?" Rin frowned. "What are you talking about?"

"This is my payback for the earlier trick, and a challenge to the gutsy Rin." Yukio smiled. "Victory is in sight. However, in this situation where I may be laying a trap, what will you do? Will you attack directly? Will you try to settle this with effect damage as usual? Will you refuse to do anything? It's time for you to decide your fate."

"That's one mean-spirited challenge…" Rin grimaced. "However, I won't back down here! My turn! Draw!"

[Rin-chan has a difficult decision to make!] Melissa announced. [One wrong move and she could fall into Yukio's trap! Now, what will her choice be!? The outcome of the Duel will most definitely be decided on this turn!]

Rin frowned. She was certain Yukio was planning something that involved his new Monster, but couldn't say what exactly. Among the options presented, letting this turn pass wasn't one of them. Time wasted here would mean more chances for Yukio to strengthen his defenses or launch another attack that could sink her. However, even if he was counting on Requiem Karma's effect, Rin reasoned that Wind Witch Raiment's effect, which negated the activation of Monster effects during the Battle Phase, would stop his dragon in its tracks. As such…

"There is only one option!" Rin exclaimed. "Battle! Ninlil Bell, attack Yukio directly and end this! God Tempest!"

[Oh, Rin is attacking!] Nico announced. [One way or another, this will settle the match!]

"Sorry, but the fate of my imminent defeat will be reversed!" Yukio declared. "I activate Requiem Karma's effect!"

"So that's what you were planning!" Rin said. "However, it's useless! The equipped Wind Witch Raiment's effect negates the activation of an opponent's Monster effect during the Battle Phase! Therefore, my attack continues!"

Ninlil Bell raised its arms high, conjuring a massive storm that enveloped Yukio's D-Wheel's, obscuring him from view.

[Did Rin-chan's go through!?] Melissa exclaimed. [Is it settled!?]

Everyone at the audience were watching the screens with bated breath, awaiting the result. Suddenly, a voice was heard.

"I told you already. The fate dictating my defeat has been denied."

Requiem Karma suddenly tore through the storm, spreading its flaming wings and consuming the storm within them. After a few seconds, Yukio's form was revealed to everyone, showing no signs of harm.

"This is…" Rin was astonished. "How is this possible?"

"Did you think I didn't remember Wind Witch Raiment's effect?" Yukio smirked. "After all, you used it against me during our last Duel as well. However, I'm afraid it won't work this time because the activation of Requiem Karma's effect cannot be negated. And thanks to said effect, I can negate an instance of damage once per turn and inflict it to my opponent! Karma Denunciation!"

Requiem Karma opened its maw wide, unleashing the raging storm it had absorbed towards Rin. The young girl let out a small smile as she was enveloped by the storm, causing her D-Wheel to come to a forceful stop as Yukio passed her.

Rin – LP: 1400→0

Yukio: WIN

[It's settled!] Nico exclaimed. [After a heated match, the winner of the fourth Duel in the Maiami Championship Preliminaries is Tachibana Yukio!]

[It's a shame that Rin-chan lost, but she showed us a splendid fight.] Melissa said. [This was certainly an excellent first Riding Duel!]

"I lost…" Rin pouted as Yukio approached her. "You, no matter what I did, you would have won the Duel the moment Requiem Karma came out, wouldn't you?"

"Well, you could have passed your turn, and Ninlil Bell's effect would have halved my Life Points again." Yukio said. "Requiem Karma has some strong effects apart from the one you saw, but they can only be used once and they're useless as long as the opponent doesn't move. However, I knew there was no way you wouldn't attack. You're a bit too feisty to sit back and wait, just like Serena."

"You saw through me." Rin chuckled as the hoverplane approached the two Duelists. "Definitely something to keep in mind for next time. Well, all that's left is to wish you good luck. However, I'll be cheering for Yugo to win this."

"Naturally."

After Rin had taken her leave, Yukio let out a tired sigh and sat down with his back on a nearby rock.

"Halfway there…" Yukio muttered. "I'm looking forward to see who's next."

After saying so, Yukio crossed his arms behind his head and turned his sights to the monitors above him, awaiting the start of the next battle.

Card Corner

Entermage Air Dancer

ATK: 800, DEF: 2000, LV: 4, SC: 7

Wind/Spellcaster/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: Once during either player's turn, you can halve an instance of effect damage. If the damage halved was over 1000, you can draw two cards from your Deck and place a card from your hand on top of your Deck.

Monster Effect: Once during either player's turn, when an "Entermage" Monster on your field is targeted by an opponent's card effect, you can negate that effect.

Entermage Sly Gambler

ATK: 1000, DEF: 2100, LV: 5

Dark/Spellcaster/Effect

Monster Effect: This card can be treated as two materials for the Xyz Summon of an "Entermage" Monster. During your opponent's Battle Phase, you can banish this card from your Graveyard to draw a card from your Deck. If the drawn card is an "Entermage" Monster, end the Battle Phase (send any other drawn card to the Graveyard).

Raid Raptors – Stealth Falcon

ATK: 500, DEF: 1000, R: 2

Dark/Winged Beast/Xyz/Effect

2 Level 2 "Raid Raptors" Monsters

Monster Effect: Your opponent cannot target this card for attacks. If your opponent attacks you directly, you can detach an Overlay Unit to reduce all damage from direct attacks to 0 for this turn, and if this is the only card you control, you can draw cards from your Deck equal to the difference between the number of Monsters you and your opponent control.

Raid Raptors – Cluster Lanius

ATK: 1400, DEF: 900, LV: 3, SC: 1

Dark/Winged Beast/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: Once per turn, you can target a "Raid Raptors" Monster on your field; make the Levels of all other "Raid Raptors" Monsters on your field equal to that Monster's Level. When a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster is Xyz Summoned successfully, increase its ATK by an amount equal to the number of Xyz Materials attached to it x 300.

Monster Effect: You can send this card from your field to the Graveyard to target a "Raid Raptors" Monster on the field and activate one of the following effects.

-That Monster's attack is doubled until the End Phase.

-That Monster can attack twice on this turn's Battle Phase.

Raid Raptors – Scout Lanius

ATK: 0, DEF: 600, LV: 2, SC: 7

Dark/Winged Beast/Pendulum/Effect

Pendulum Effect: When a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster is Xyz Summoned to your field, you can draw a card from your Deck. You can only use this effect once per turn.

Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can send another "Raid Raptors" Monster you control to the Graveyard; check the top card of your opponent's Deck, and then place at either the top or the bottom of their Deck.

Raid Raptors – Gatling Buzzard

ATK: 1900, DEF: 2300, LV: 6

Dark/Winged Beast/Effect

Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can Special Summon a "Raid Raptors" Monster from your Deck.

Raid Raptors – Slash Eagle

ATK: 400, DEF: 700, LV: 2

Dark/Winged Beast/Effect

Monster Effect: If you control a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster, you can send this card from your hand to the Graveyard; destroy a Spell or Trap Card on your opponent's field.

Entermage Trapeze Ultimate Magician

ATK: 3800, DEF: 3000, R: 8

Light/Spellcaster/Xyz/Effect

3 Level 8 Spellcaster-type Monsters

Monster Effect: This card cannot be destroyed by card effects. When you're about to receive effect damage, that damage is reduced to 0, this card gains ATK equal to the amount of damage you would have taken and your opponent receives damage equal to half the amount of damage you would have taken. Once per turn, you can detach an Xyz Material from this card to target a Spellcaster-type Xyz Monster on your field. For every two Ranks that Monster has, this card gains an additional attack during this turn's Battle Phase.

Wind Witch – Rime Bell

ATK: 1300, DEF: 1600, LV: 4

Wind/Spellcaster/Effect

Monster Effect: You can banish this card from your hand or Graveyard; reduce an instance of battle damage to 0 and inflict half the amount of that negated damage as effect damage to your opponent's Life Points.

Wind Witch – Clear Bell

ATK: 800, DEF: 1350, LV: 3

Wind/Spellcaster/Tuner/Effect

Monster Effect: If you dealt effect damage to your opponent, you can Special Summon this card from your hand.

Wind Witch – Blizzard Bell

ATK: 1000, DEF: 1800, LV: 4

Wind/Spellcaster/Effect

Monster Effect: If this card was added from your Deck to your hand though a card effect, you can Special Summon it. If this card is sent to the Graveyard on the turn your opponent received damage from the effect of a "Wind Witch" Monster, you can increase the ATK of all "Wind Witch" Monsters on your field by 700.

Ascended Wind Witch – Notus Bell

ATK: 3400, DEF: 2250, LV: 10

Wind/Spellcaster/Synchro/Effect

1 "Wind Witch" Tuner Monster + 2 or more non-Tuner "Wind Witch" Monsters

Monster Effect: Once per turn, you can inflict damage to your opponent equal to the difference between this card's ATK and the ATK of each Monster on your opponent's field, while you gain Life Points equal to that amount. This card cannot attack on the turn you used this effect. On the turn when your opponent received effect damage by the effect of a "Wind Witch" Monster, you banish all other Monsters on the field. You cannot conduct your Battle Phase on the turn you used this effect. When your opponent Special Summons Monsters, you can banish this card; negate those Monsters' summon and have your opponent gain 500 Life Points for every Monster whose summon was negated.

Requiem Karma Ritual Dragon

ATK: 3000, DEF: 3000, LV: 10

Dark/Dragon/Ritual/Effect

Monster Effect: You can Special Summon this card by banishing "Chaos Karma Ritual Dragon" and "Karma Manifestation" from your Graveyard (this Special Summon is treated as a Ritual Summon). This card cannot declare an attack and cannot be targeted for an attack. Once during either player's turn, you can activate only one of the following effects.

-When your opponent's Monster declares an attack, you can switch the attack target to another Monster on the field.

-When your opponent targets one of your Monsters with a card effect, you can switch the target to another Monster on the field.

-When you're about to receive damage, you can reduce it to 0 and inflict the same amount of damage to your opponent.

The activation of the above effects cannot be negated.

Rank-Down-Magic – Retread Force

Quick-Play Spell Card

Target a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster on your field; Special Summon a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster from your Extra Deck with a lower Rank than it (this Special Summon is treated as an Xyz Summon). The activation of this card cannot be negated.

Hasty Retreat

Action Spell

Switch all attack position Monsters you control to defense position. Those Monsters cannot change their battle position until the end of your next turn.

Sleight Fusion

Normal Spell Card

Check the top card of your Deck, and if it's an "Entermage" Monster, you can Special Summon it, and then Fusion Summon an "Entermage" Fusion Monster from your Extra Deck by using it and "Entermage" Monsters from your hand and/or field as materials. The summoned Monster gains the following effect; when an opponent's Monster targets this card for an attack, you can switch the target to another Monster on your field.

Rank-Up-Magic Comeback Force

Normal Spell Card

Activate this card if your opponent controls a Special Summoned Monster. Special Summon an "Entermage" Xyz Monster from your Graveyard. Then, Special Summon an "Entermage" Xyz Monster from your Extra Deck which is one Rank higher than it by using the summoned Monster as Xyz Material (this Special Summon is treated as an Xyz Summon) and increase its ATK by 400 for every "Entermage" Monster on the field. The summoned Monster is unaffected by your opponent's card effects on the turn it was summoned.

Raptor's Wing Bomber

Equip Spell Card

Equip this card to a "Raid Raptors" Xyz Monster you control. Effects that negate battle damage do not apply when the equipped Monster battles. During your Main Phase 2, you can destroy Monsters on your opponent's field equal to the number of times the equipped Monster attacked during the previous Battle Phase and have your opponent draw a card from their Deck for every destroyed Monster. On the End Phase of the turn this card was sent to the Graveyard because the equipped Monster was destroyed, you can inflict 1000 points of damage to your opponent.

Rank-Up-Magic Troupe Force

Normal Spell Card

Send all Monsters on your field to the Graveyard; Special Summon an "Entermage" Xyz Monster from your Graveyard, and then use that Monster as an Xyz Material along with this card to Special Summon an "Entermage" Xyz Monster from your Deck whose Rank is equal to that Xyz Monster's Rank plus the number of Monsters sent to the Graveyard through this card's effect. Then, increase the summoned Monster's ATK by 400 for every Monster sent to the Graveyard through this card's effect.

Entermage Revival Line

Normal Spell Card

Shuffle an "Entermage" Monster on your field back to the Deck; Special Summon up to two "Entermage" Monsters from your Graveyard whose ATK sum is equal to or lower than the returned Monster's original ATK.

Unstoppable Rush

Action Spell

Target a Monster on your field. Its attack cannot be negated during the Battle Phase of this turn.

Wind Witch Sign

Normal Spell Card

Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Wind Witch" Monster from your hand. That Monster's summon cannot be negated.

Link Vent

Normal Spell Card

Activate this card only if you control a "Wind Witch" Synchro Monster. Banish a "Wind Witch" Tuner Monster and a "Wind Witch" non-Tuner Monster from your hand to Special Summon a "Wind Witch" Synchro Monster from your Extra Deck whose Level is equal to the banished Monsters' Levels (this Special Summon is treated as a Synchro Summon).

Lure

Action Spell

Change the target of an opponent's Monster's attack to another Monster on your field.

Wind Witch Reincarnation

Normal Spell Card

If you control at least one "Wind Witch" Monster, you can Special Summon a Level 4 or lower "Wind Witch" Monster from your banish zone.

Flame Armor

Action Spell

Target a Monster on the field; increase its ATK by 400 and make it unable to be destroyed by battle until the End Phase.

Flame Jail

Action Spell

Target a Monster on the field; negate its effects as long as it remains face-up on the field.

Ritual Amendment

Normal Spell Card

Send a Ritual Spell Card from your hand to the Graveyard; add another Ritual Spell Card from your Graveyard to your hand, and if you control a Ritual Monster, draw a card from your Deck.

Absolute Zero Point

Normal Spell Card

If a "Wind Witch" Monster on your field was destroyed during the previous turn, you can destroy all Monsters on your opponent's field, but receive 600 points of damage for each destroyed Monster.

Raging Wind

Normal Spell Card

If you control a Level 8 or higher "Wind Witch" Synchro Monster, you can banish all Spell and Trap Cards on your opponent's field.

Aurora Line

Continuous Spell Card

Once per turn, you can negate an attack that targets a "Wind Witch" Monster you control. If this card is destroyed, inflict 400 points of damage to your opponent for every Monster currently on your field.

Crumbling Ruin

Action Trap

Take 400 points of damage.

Xyz Cursed Bind

Continuous Trap Card

Target an Xyz Monster on your opponent's field. That Monster cannot declare an attack, use its effects or be used as an Xyz Material as long as this card remains on the field. If the targeted Monster leaves the field, destroy this card.

Wonder World Calling

Normal Trap Card

Activate this card at the start of your opponent's Battle Phase. Banish all Monsters on your field. At the Battle Phase's end, Special Summon the banished Monsters and draw a card from your Deck for every Special Summoned Monster.

Wind Witch Haunt

Normal Trap Card

Special Summoned "Wind Witch" Monsters on your field cannot be destroyed by battle or card effects on the turn you activated this card. Each time your opponent attacks a Special Summoned "Wind Witch" Monster on your field during this turn, they must destroy one of their Monsters after damage calculation. You can banish this card from your Graveyard; draw a card for every "Wind Witch" Synchro Monster on your field.

Ice Crystal Fortress

Continuous Trap Card

Activate this card if you control at least two "Wind Witch" Synchro Monsters. All battle damage you receive from battles involving "Wind Witch" Monsters you control is halved. Each time your opponent attacks a "Wind Witch" Monster on your field, inflict 500 points of damage to them. During the End Phase, gain 300 Life Points for every different "Wind Witch" Monster that was attacked on that turn's Battle Phase. During your opponent's Battle Phase, you can send this face-up card to the Graveyard; end the Battle Phase and have your opponent draw a card from their Deck for every Monster on their field.

Purgatory Flame

Normal Trap Card

Take 500 points of damage.

That concludes Chapter 78, along with two more Duels in the preliminary stage. The first one was Dennis against Shun. Due to the past history between them during the Synchro Dimension, I found it fitting to pit them against each other not as adversaries, but as comrades. Plus, it was a good opportunity for Dennis to apologize for his misdeeds and move forward.

The second match had Yukio face Rin. Since he never had the chance to face the real Rin (since she was controlled by the Parasite Fusioner when her fought her), I thought it was a good opportunity to do so here. I also introduced an alternate evolved form for Chaos Karma just like how Dark Rebellion has Arc Rebellion as a new upgraded form.

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

See you all next time!