Chapter 386: Meteor Dragon? I'll Accel Synchro!
"Soar, *Red-Eyes Black Dragon*!"
Under the gaze of Rex, who had put on a "mask of suffering" due to *Painful Decision*, the *Red-Eyes Black Dragon* card chosen by Rex was not recovered by Joey. From within the revealed card art, the pitch-black demonic dragon soared into the sky, bathed in surging lava. Even under the despair-inducingly large *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno*'s gaze, the indomitable black dragon let out a proud roar!
"ROAR!!"
Seeing the familiar black dragon appear before his eyes, Rex instinctively muttered, "*Red-Eyes*..."
Having been called by Rex, *Red-Eyes Black Dragon* slightly lowered its head, looked down at Rex from the air, and after letting out a low growl, it unhesitatingly shifted its gaze away from Rex and focused on *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno*.
Rex was the previous user of *Red-Eyes* before Joey, but that was all. To *Red-Eyes Black Dragon*, Rex was just a passerby; it only acknowledged Joey.
*Red-Eyes Black Dragon* Level 7 / Dark Attribute
Dragon-Type / Normal Monster
[2400/2000]
"Even *Red-Eyes Black Dragon* only has 2400 Attack points." Shifting his attention away from *Red-Eyes Black Dragon*, Rex looked back at Joey. "My *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno* has 3500 Attack points."
"That's true. If I wanted to defeat *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno* using *Red-Eyes Black Dragon*, it would indeed be difficult." Joey nodded, but then showed a smug smile. "But Rex, I never said I would use *Red-Eyes* to defeat *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno*."
"The monster I'll use next to defeat you is this one!"
As he said this, Joey played a card from his hand onto the field. "I will Normal Summon *Well-Cooked Captain*, and then activate its effect!"
On Joey's field, a man wearing an apron stood with a resolute expression before a large pot placed over a fire, scooping some soup from the pot and tasting its saltiness.
*Well-Cooked Captain* Level 3 / Earth Attribute
Warrior-Type / Effect Monster
[1200/400]
"When *Well-Cooked Captain* is successfully Normal Summoned, I can return one card from my hand to the Deck and shuffle it, then draw one card from the Deck."
Rex said dismissively, "Tch, in the end, it's just an effect to change your hand. And you think such an effect can defeat me? You're looking down on me too much, Joey!"
"No, I just remembered. If *Red-Eyes Black Dragon* is Fusion Summoned with a Warrior-Type monster, you seem to be able to Fusion Summon another *Red-Eyes* Fusion Monster—*Red-Eyes Black Blade Dragon*, right? Are you trying to defeat me with it?"
"Useless, useless! I remember *Red-Eyes Black Blade Dragon*'s effect; it's nothing more than equipping Warrior-Type monsters from the Graveyard to gain 200 ATK. It's still no match for *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno*!"
"Oh, is that so?" Although Joey's tone was questioning, his face still held a smile. "I'm certainly aware of that, but Rex, the effect of *Well-Cooked Captain* isn't finished yet!"
"Courage, leadership, and logistics—these are the three most important elements of an army. Cooking and making porridge aren't great achievements, but soldiers can't die on the battlefield hungry." As he said this, Joey drew a card. "If the card I drew with *Well-Cooked Captain*'s effect is a monster card, I can Special Summon it!"
"And the card I drew is this one, *Meteor Dragon*!"
"What the?! *Meteor Dragon*!"
Rex, opposite Joey, was still calm, but Hayato in the audience seating could barely contain himself, watching Joey slap the card he had just drawn onto his Duel Disk to Special Summon the *Meteor Dragon* he mentioned.
"This card creation is too much! How did *Meteor Dragon* suddenly appear? Is this the start of Accel Synchro that can even transcend light?"
Then, after Hayato got a clear look at the monster Joey summoned, he felt somewhat relieved that he hadn't overreacted. What Joey drew wasn't the Synchro Monster *Shooting Star Dragon*; it was clearly just *another* *Meteor Dragon*!
Compared to the white, jet-like Accel Dragon, the design of *Meteor Dragon* was basically a turtle's back with two wings attached, its design lowering the average good looks of Dragon-Types even more than the shame of Thunder Dragons, *Twin-Headed Thunder Dragon*.
*Meteor Dragon* Level 6 / Earth Attribute
Dragon-Type / Normal Monster
[1800/2000]
Normally, a Level 6 *Meteor Dragon* requires one Tribute to be Summoned to the field, but thanks to the effect of *Well-Cooked Captain*, it was Special Summoned directly to the field.
"Heh heh, Rex, I wonder if you've heard this saying." Seeing *Meteor Dragon* appear, Joey said smugly to Rex, "White Dragons bring victory, while Black Dragons bring possibility."
"If *Blue-Eyes White Dragon* symbolizes the greatest power, then *Red-Eyes Black Dragon* corresponds to infinite hope!"
Rex tilted his head in confusion and scratched his hair through his hat. "I've never heard that at all. Who said it?"
This question stumped Joey.
"Hayato said it. He said it's a long-standing legend in the Duel Monsters world." Rex retorted, "There's no such thing! That guy Hayato Kobayashi is never serious; he's definitely fooling you again."
Joey, however, was stubborn. "It's not like that."
As he said this, Joey raised the last card in his hand, *Polymerization*. "This must be true; otherwise, why can my *Red-Eyes Black Dragon* always create miracles again and again?"
"Let me show you another form of *Red-Eyes Black Dragon*, Rex! Activate the Spell Card *Polymerization*! I will use *Meteor Dragon* and *Red-Eyes Black Dragon* as Fusion Material!"
"Come forth—"
"*Meteor Black Dragon*!"
The *Polymerization* card was played by Joey onto the field. At the same time, the vortex of *Polymerization* that appeared on his field drew in *Red-Eyes Black Dragon* and *Meteor Dragon*.
"Th-they've disappeared!"
Rex was quite surprised. The previous *Summoned Skull* could fuse with *Red-Eyes Black Dragon* to Summon *Black Skull Dragon*; this could barely be explained as a resonance of their shared dark magic, and both were quite powerful cards. But *Meteor Dragon*, with an ATK of 1800 and DEF of 2000, let alone for a Level 6 monster—many Level 4 monsters can reach this strength—and it has no effects itself, it's just a Normal Monster, unremarkable in every aspect. How could it actually fuse with *Red-Eyes Black Dragon*?
As if intentionally opposing the supernova-like light blooming from underground by *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno*, a streak of fire lit up from the horizon, quickly elongating into a fiery line and lunging straight towards the Duel Field. In just the space of a breath, a giant fireball landed on the ground like a meteor.
With a loud "BOOM!", the rock fragments enveloping the fireball exploded outwards, revealing the robust great dragon within the fireball. *Red-Eyes Black Dragon*'s originally slender body seemed like it had consumed hundreds of pounds of protein powder and gone through intense training, becoming stout and powerful. Its color was changed to a dark purple, the same as *Meteor Dragon*'s muscles, and its physique roughly doubled in size compared to before. Feeling the surging power within, the post-training *Red-Eyes Black Dragon*, or rather, *Meteor Black Dragon*, let out a roar and swaggered towards the *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno* before it.
*Meteor Black Dragon* Level 8 / FIRE Attribute
Dragon-Type / Fusion / Effect Monster
[3500/2000]
"With the power of *Meteor Dragon* gathered, *Red-Eyes Black Dragon*'s strength has been amplified to its peak." Joey said, looking at *Meteor Black Dragon*. "Actually, I was originally thinking of saving *Meteor Black Dragon* for last to surprise Kaiba."
"But ultimately, when dueling you, Rex, I can't hold back."
"Hmph, I wouldn't mind if you didn't go all out, Joey." Rex said unhappily. "Although I can't fully display my strength, I can accept achieving a higher rank." He said as much, but seeing *Meteor Black Dragon* appear, Rex was quite nervous. The 3500 ATK *Meteor Black Dragon* coincidentally possessed just enough ATK to result in a mutual destruction with *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno*.
Besides that, on Joey's field, *Well-Cooked Captain*, which brought him *Meteor Dragon*, was Summoned in Attack Position with an Attack of 1200 points, while Rex's own Life Points were 1100.
"Things are looking bad!"
"No matter how you think about it, that guy Joey's next offensive move will surely only be—"
"Then, I will enter my Battle Phase!" Joey declared excitedly and sheepishly touched his nose. "Victory is about to be pocketed by me, Rex!"
"Damn it, don't just assume so quickly that you've already won 1000%, Joey!" Hearing Joey declare he was entering the Battle Phase, Rex made a decision in his heart and, with determined resolve, declared, "Before you enter your Battle Phase, my *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno* on the field has an effect that can be activated!"
"Once per turn, *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno* can, during either player's Main Phase, by destroying one monster in my hand or on my field, flip all monsters on the opponent's field facedown!"
"What?! Flip all monsters facedown?!" Joey was also stunned. "That's not right, wait a minute, Rex. Your hand should be empty, and you only have *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno* on the field... C-could it be!"
"Sacrifice yourself for the greater good, *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno*!"
"You did it again!!"
Ever since the previous self-destruction of *Super Conductor Tyranno* to Summon *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno*, Rex seemed to have flipped some strange switch. This time, when he made *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno* self-destruct, he had none of the hesitation he had before; instead, he seemed somewhat eager.
As Rex designated *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno* to destroy itself, the massive dinosaur first tilted its head up slightly, then lowered it sharply, and unleashed a breath of destruction onto the ground beneath its feet! Starting from where *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno*'s breath landed, the Duel Field suddenly cracked open, as if the surface was cracking and breaking apart on the verge of doomsday. Vast amounts of scorching lava erupted from the fissures, surging into the sky in an instant, engulfing both the powerful *Meteor Black Dragon* and the *Well-Cooked Captain* who hadn't even managed to serve the food in its pot; they were all swallowed by the lava. As for *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno*, which actively detonated the underground magma, it was the first to be engulfed.
After the high temperature slightly subsided, everyone could finally see the field clearly and found that everything was covered in cooled lava. Aside from *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno*, which was completely engulfed by lava, destroyed, and sent to the Graveyard, Joey's *Meteor Black Dragon* and *Well-Cooked Captain* on the field had all transformed into lifelike stone statues.
*Meteor Black Dragon* → Face-down Defense Position Monster [ATK 3500 → DEF 2000]
*Well-Cooked Captain* → Face-down Defense Position Monster [ATK 1200 → DEF 400]
Witnessing his two monsters turn into stone statues and then be flipped to Face-down Defense Position on the field, Joey remained in shock. "All monsters were sealed away in an instant. Such immense power!"
Rex also somewhat snapped out of his "firecracker" joy and said seriously, "Facing the power of *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno*, let alone your *Meteor Black Dragon*, even Gods must be set facedown. Although its power requires sacrifice to unleash, it possesses the ability to inevitably steer destiny in a favorable direction."
Rex wasn't exaggerating on this point. The resistance of God Cards against monsters is: negation of destruction effects from non-God Cards, effects other than destruction only last one turn, and negation of monster effects of Level 10 or lower. And the effect of *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno* is not within the above resistance range. Its Level is also 10, and its effect is not destruction but a change in form. So, as he said, even Gods must be set.
"Because *Meteor Black Dragon* and *Well-Cooked Captain* are both monsters Summoned this turn, even when it reaches my Main Phase 2, I cannot change their Battle Position." Joey said, frowning, his tone full of helplessness. "In that case, I can only end my turn."
"But Rex, you have also lost your most powerful *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno*, so I still believe victory belongs to me."
[Joey: 2700 LP, 0 cards in hand]
[*Well-Cooked Captain*] [DEF 400]
[*Meteor Black Dragon*] [DEF 2000]
Rex remained silent, with his fingers resting on his Deck. He couldn't refute Joey's words because he had indeed lost his strongest *Ultimate Conductor Tyranno*. After losing *Red-Eyes Black Dragon* back then, the large amount of capital invested was for naught, causing his Deck's strength to plummet, and ultimately, he failed to even make it into the Top 8 of Duelist Kingdom. That experience resurfaced in Rex's mind.
(end of chapter)
**Chapter 387: Weevil, Living in Memories**
Back in Duelist Kingdom, Rex was the runner-up of the then wildly popular Japan National Duel Monsters Championship. Although he lost to Weevil in the finals due to being unprepared for the newly released Trap Card at the time, he was confident. Having purchased 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' with his runner-up prize money, he believed his strength was second to none among all Duelists.
Then, in Duelist Kingdom, he encountered Joey. Due to his greed for Joey's 'Time Wizard', he wagered his 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon', but was defeated by Joey in a comeback, subsequently losing a large number of Star Chips and his 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon'.
After the Top 8 of Duelist Kingdom were decided, Rex, with intense shame, also watched the match where Hayato and Yugi, having emerged as champions, challenged Pegasus.
In this match, Rex witnessed Hayato's highly synergistic 'Performapals', Yugi's endless array of Spells, and Pegasus's despair-inducing "Illusion Monsters."
He suddenly realized that he had actually been arrogant within a very small circle, believing himself to be the best in the world simply for achieving a runner-up position.
Little did he know, let alone Pegasus, the "Father of Duel Monsters," but even Hayato and Yugi in Japan were far stronger than himself.
Rex, recognizing himself for the first time, had to face a reality: his strength was nothing compared to many other Duelists. In fact, during the later Battle City, he even faltered before some unknown, obscure Duelists.
After Duelist Kingdom ended and before Battle City began, Rex had encountered that guy Weevil again. At that time, Rex was quite surprised that Weevil, who had gambled the future of Duel Monsters in his duel with Hayato and was banned from ever touching Duel Monsters again, had somehow obtained a Duel Disk through some channel.
Weevil had specifically sought out Rex at that time, partly to show off the great power he obtained from someone, and partly because he wanted to recruit Rex into his organization. It seemed to be called the Rare Hunters.
The bait Weevil used to tempt Rex included many powerful cards, from 'Dark Magician', 'Exodia', even 'Blue-Eyes White Dragon'—which should have only four copies—and even the 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon' that Rex had lost.
At that time, Rex was really just a step away from accepting Weevil's invitation to join, but whether it was sudden enlightenment or a complete awakening, Rex refused Weevil's invitation.
"Compared to powerful cards, though it sounds funny, I actually want to believe in the 'power of the Heart of the Cards' that Joey and Yugi talk about."
"Cards that only have power but no heart dwelling within them are just empty shells. Don't get lost in them, Weevil."
Weevil left after receiving Rex's refusal. Out of their past perceived friendship, Rex did not report Weevil to the department responsible for supervising Battle City within KaibaCorp.
Later, Rex heard that Weevil had apparently died. After that, he heard that the organization called Rare Hunters had also been disbanded.
The 'Ultimate Conductor Tyranno' was a card Rex unexpectedly obtained before coming to participate in this KC Cup. It was also because of this card that Rex, who had been hesitant about participating in the KC Cup, decided to enter.
The reason he gave himself was to attract enough popularity at the KC Cup to gain investor attention and become a Professional Duelist, but deep down, he knew his true answer.
'As expected, I really can't forget it, can I? I can't forget losing my 'Red-Eyes Black Dragon', Joey.'
Rex looked at Joey,
'If you want to defeat that guy Seto Kaiba, then my obsession is actually to defeat you!'
'Not for things like power or honor, I just genuinely want to see how you embody the 'Heart of the Cards'.'
As Rex spoke, he sharply drew a card from his Deck: "Respond to me, my Deck! Let this draw decide everything!"
"My Turn, Draw!"
As Rex drew the card, although Rex hadn't done anything, Joey once again felt the imposing presence that had left the Field with the disappearance of the 'Ultimate Conductor Tyranno'.
The card Rex drew was, as expected—
"I activate the Spell Card, 'Monster Reborn'!"
Having received a response from his Deck in his moment of desperation, Rex excitedly held up the card in his hand: "I heard your roar! Now, revive from your unwilling Graveyard, 'Ultimate Conductor Tyranno'!"
The light of Supernova bloomed once again on Rex's Field!
"Roar!!!"
'Ultimate Conductor Tyranno' [ATK 3500]
Rex turned his head to look at the revived giant dinosaur. The 'Ultimate Conductor Tyranno's gaze met Rex's, and it slowly nodded, as if acknowledging something.
"Is that so? Then I can't let your acknowledgment go to waste either," Rex said with a confident smile as he looked at Joey. "Now, I'm entering my Battle Phase, Joey!"
"The 'Ultimate Conductor Tyranno's second effect can be activated at the start of the Damage Step when it attacks a monster in Defense Position."
"It deals 1000 damage to the opponent Duelist and sends the attacked monster directly to the Graveyard!" Rex declared, waving his hand. "Supernova Breath!"
A purplish-red breath spewed from 'Ultimate Conductor Tyranno's mouth, instantly shattering one of Joey's two face-down Defense Position Monsters as if to crush all things to dust.
The card hit was 'Meteor Black Dragon'. Unwilling, it wanted to counterattack to show it wasn't helpless, but a certain destructive power contained within Supernova Breath destroyed it in the blink of an eye, leaving no chance for it to act.
"Cough!"
[Joey: 2700 LP → 1700 LP]
Raising his hand to block the airflow from 'Ultimate Conductor Tyranno's attack, Joey endured the combat damage inflicted upon him and said, "It's just 1000 damage, I can handle it."
"Hey, Joey, when did I say my Battle Phase was over?" Rex interjected, holding up three fingers. "Next is the 'Ultimate Conductor Tyranno's third effect,"
"Within a single Battle Phase, the 'Ultimate Conductor Tyranno' can attack all monsters on the opponent's Field once each!"
"What?!" Joey exclaimed in surprise. "It has more effects? That's way too strong!"
Rex smirked proudly. "That's why I told you long ago, don't underestimate me, Joey."
"Now, 'Ultimate Conductor Tyranno'! The second blast, Supernova Breath!"
(end of chapter)
Chapter 388: Red-Eyes Black Dragon, Meteor Dragon, Fusion Up!
""Ultimate Conductor Tyranno", second Supernova Breath!"
A purple-red light of destruction reappeared. Following "Meteor B. Dragon", another Face-down Defense Position "Marauding Captain" on Joey's Field suffered the same fate, instantly pierced by the breath and sent to the Graveyard, leaving no chance for struggle or lament.
Joey's Life Points also took another 1000 points of damage.
[Joey: 1700→700LP]
"So, so strong!" In the Audience Seating, Tristan couldn't help but be shocked by the power displayed by Rex's "Ultimate Conductor Tyranno". "It's simply overwhelming power!"
Even though the one facing "Ultimate Conductor Tyranno" right now was his friend Joey, that didn't stop him from praising "Ultimate Conductor Tyranno"'s might.
"By destroying one of your own monsters, you can forcibly set all of your opponent's monsters face-down without targeting them. Then there's the effect that sends Defense Position monsters directly to the Graveyard without destroying them when it attacks, and its ability to attack all of your opponent's monsters." Marik enumerated "Ultimate Conductor Tyranno"'s abilities. "It's indeed very strong; calling it comparable to a god is no exaggeration."
As the person who, besides Chumley, once held the most "Egyptian God Cards", Marik had enough authority to make such a judgment.
Glancing at Joey on the Field, Marik narrowed his eyes with interest. "It seems that guy who only relies on luck is about to have his KC Cup journey end here."
Chumley, however, dismissed it. "Don't jinx it. Kaiba said the same thing last time, and that guy Joey still managed to reach fourth place in Battle City."
"The power of "Ultimate Conductor Tyranno" is indeed very strong, even comparable to a god, but you probably didn't notice it," Chumley said, pointing at Joey. "That guy possesses the will and ability to even crush a god. The more adverse the situation, the more Joey's talent can shine."
"Talent?"
Marik looked at Chumley doubtfully. "What talent could that guy possibly have?"
"Of course he does. Joey's talent is, naturally—"
Rex glanced at Joey, his excitement slightly calming down. As if letting out a sigh of relief, he said easily, "Well then, my Turn ends here, Joey."
[Rex: 1100LP, Hand 0]
["Ultimate Conductor Tyranno"][ATK3500]
Rex's face was filled with relief. In the end, whether he could defeat Joey or attract enough popularity no longer mattered to him, because he had already obtained something more precious than that.
"Try to defeat me, and my "Ultimate Conductor Tyranno", Joey!"
For the first time, Rex no longer cared about winning or losing in a Duel. He was more interested in seeing if Joey could display even more bonds with his cards and become an example for him to strive towards.
Raising his head, Joey stubbornly declared, "Shut up! Even if you didn't say it, I'd still be able to do that!"
"I'm Joey, the one and only! It's just a Dinosaur; watch me defeat it for you!"
"My Turn, Draw!"
Forcefully drawing a card, Joey looked down and proudly activated the card he had just drawn. "Yosh! I activate the card I just drew! The Spell Card, "Card of Fate"!"
"I roll a die. Based on the die roll, I draw cards equal to the result from the top of my Deck, then banish cards equal to the result from the top of my Deck."
As he spoke, a large die appeared on Joey's Field, pushed by an invisible force, it spun and landed on the ground.
Seeing this, Rex couldn't help but retort, "In the end, you're still using those gambling cards, aren't you?"
"Hehe, mostly because pure Dragon-Type Decks are just too expensive." Joey scratched his head, a little embarrassed. The original intention for building his current "Red-Eyes" Deck was because he thought a pure Dragon-Type Deck like Kaiba's was very strong, so he built one too.
However, Dragon-Type Decks were truly too expensive. The price of even slightly powerful Dragon-Type monsters was ridiculously high, and Dragon-Type support cards were super expensive as well.
With "Red-Eyes Black Dragon" as the core, combining "Summoned Skull", "Meteor Dragon", and some Warrior-Type monsters to fill out the numbers, plus some gambling cards taken from his previous gambling card Deck—this was Joey's current "Pure "Red-Eyes"" Deck.
The tumbling die slowly came to a stop. Under everyone's gaze, the die roll finally showed—6!
"Alright! In that case, I can draw six cards, then banish six cards from my Deck!"
Joey's Hand was instantly replenished to six cards due to "Card of Fate". He then banished the top six cards from his Deck one by one. As he banished the cards, he noticed one of them, paused in surprise, but still put them into his pocket.
Glancing at his Hand, Joey drew one of the cards. "This card really came at the perfect time."
"First, I activate the Spell Card "Pot of Avarice"! I return two "Red-Eyes Black Dragon", "Meteor B. Dragon", "Black Skull Dragon", and "Marauding Captain"—five monsters from my Graveyard—to my Deck and shuffle it, then draw two cards!"
"Next, I activate this card, the Spell Card "Dragon's Mirror"!"
After "Pot of Avarice" recycled the cards from Joey's Graveyard, a tall mirror with dragon-patterned borders appeared on Joey's Field. Inside the mirror, the shadows of the monsters still remaining in Joey's Graveyard appeared one after another.
"That card..." Rex frowned, clearly aware of "Dragon's Mirror"'s effect.
"That's right! Unlike "Polymerization", which fuses monsters from your Hand and Field, "Dragon's Mirror" is specifically for fusing monsters from the Field and Graveyard. However, as a cost, "Dragon's Mirror" can only be used for the Fusion of Dragon-Type Fusion Monsters."
As Joey explained, he unhesitatingly selected two monsters from his Graveyard. "Then, help me out one more time—"
""Red-Eyes Black Dragon" and "Meteor Dragon"!"
"Fusion Up!"
"ROAR!!"
The images of "Red-Eyes Black Dragon" and "Meteor Dragon" flashed within "Dragon's Mirror" one after another. Then, a thick arm suddenly smashed through "Dragon's Mirror", and "Meteor B. Dragon", which had been set and then destroyed by "Ultimate Conductor Tyranno", made its reappearance!
["Meteor B. Dragon"][ATK3500]
"You summoned this monster again? But it's useless, Joey! You haven't forgotten "Ultimate Conductor Tyranno"'s effect, have you? No matter how many powerful monsters you summon, they can only meet their end before its effect!"
Hearing Rex's words, Joey simply smiled. "Of course I know that, Rex."
"But the same trick won't work on me twice!"
"Are you some kind of Saint Seiya?!"
(end of chapter)
Chapter 389: Time is Etched Here
Ignoring Rex's retort, Joey played another card: "I haven't performed a Normal Summon yet this turn, so I Normal Summon [Rocket Warrior] in Attack Position!"
[Rocket Warrior], whose overall form resembled a rocket capable of transforming into a humanoid shape as if it had come from the Cybertron set next door, appeared on Joey's Field, holding a sword, eager to fight.
[Rocket Warrior] [4 Stars/LIGHT]
[Warrior/Effect]
[1500/1300]
"Alright, I'm starting my Battle Phase, Rex!" Joey's provocative smile greatly annoyed Rex.
"Are you trying to take down [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] with [Meteor B. Dragon] again and then use [Rocket Warrior] for a Direct Attack on me? Hmph, I told you, that move won't work!"
"During your Main Phase before entering the Battle Phase, I'll activate [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]'s Effect!"
As Rex spoke, he was about to order [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] to self-destruct again and Set Joey's cards, but just then, he saw a triumphant smile spread across Joey's face.
"Heh heh, didn't I just say that the same move is useless against me!" Joey chuckled as he played a card. "I was already prepared for you! Chaining to [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]'s Effect, I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card [Forbidden Chalice]!"
"What?!"
Rex exclaimed.
[Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] had just raised its head, taking a deep breath and preparing to Set all of Joey's cards on the Field again at the cost of its own existence. But just as it was inhaling, suddenly, a golden chalice filled with scarlet liquid was thrown into its mouth, getting stuck in its throat.
It felt like the sensation of accidentally inhaling something while taking a big breath.
With the foreign object stuck in its throat, impossible to cough out or swallow, like a chronic case of pharyngitis, [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] became agitated, but its brewing offensive was thus dispelled.
[Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] [ATK3500→3900]
"[Forbidden Chalice]... I heard its prototype is said to be a chalice that held the blood of saints? Regardless, it has an effect to raise a monster's ATK by 400 until the end of the turn." Joey explained the effect of [Forbidden Chalice]: "However, as a cost for using the chalice, the monster whose ATK was increased will have its effects negated until the end of this turn."
According to the 'Chain Rules' in Duel Monsters, the Quick Effect of [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno], which activates 'during either player's Main Phase', and the Quick-Play Spell Card [Forbidden Chalice] both have Spell Speed 2. They can Chain to each other; it just depends on who activates first.
If Joey had proactively activated [Forbidden Chalice] during his Main Phase, Rex could have Chained [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]'s Effect to [Forbidden Chalice]. Following the principle of 'the latter effect resolves first', before [Forbidden Chalice] negated [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]'s effect, he could have Set all of Joey's monsters.
But there are no 'ifs'. Joey, who never plays without being on the brink of defeat, saw his passionate streak end and his clever intellect take over after his Life Points dropped to 700. He successfully baited out the effect of [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] and negated it with [Forbidden Chalice]!
Having been outplayed by Joey, Rex frowned and said, annoyed, "You've certainly improved a lot, Joey. But have you forgotten that the effect of [Forbidden Chalice] benefits both of us?"
"Although [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]'s Effect was negated, its ATK was also increased by [Forbidden Chalice]'s effect,"
"[Meteor B. Dragon], which originally had the same ATK as [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] and was evenly matched, has now lost its qualification to take down [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] with it!"
Joey replied to Rex with a confident smile. The close-up of Joey's face on the screen even made Mai Valentine blush, a rare sight: "That guy is surprisingly handsome sometimes."
Looking at [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] with its ATK increased to 3900, Joey looked at his hand and felt a great sense of relief. "Indeed, as you said, Rex, the balance of power between our two monsters has been upset."
"But in my opinion, the one at a disadvantage isn't me—it's you, because your monster has been alone from start to finish!"
Joey said, pointing to the [Rocket Warrior] he had just Normal Summoned to his Field, "[Meteor B. Dragon], empowered by the support of its comrades, is now invincible!"
"No matter how powerful the enemy, as long as my comrades are by my side, I can defeat them!"
With a fierce wave of his hand, Joey ordered, "Go, [Rocket Warrior]! Attack [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]!"
"For [Meteor B. Dragon]—no, for our victory, pave the way to the future!"
"Rocket Headbutt!"
Hearing that Joey had chosen to initiate an attack, Rex was also taken aback: "Are you crazy, Joey? [Rocket Warrior] is just a Level 4 monster with 1500 ATK. If it attacks my [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno], you'll take a massive 2400 points of battle damage!"
Joey confidently crossed his arms. "What of it?"
On Joey's Field, [Rocket Warrior], after receiving Joey's attack command, its body transformed into a rocket, trailing a long flame, and launched towards the massive [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]!
One must remember, [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] is not like [Tyrant Dragon], whose hind limbs are extremely developed while its forelimbs are severely atrophied. Its forelimbs, like its hind limbs supporting its massive bulk, are equally powerful, even possessing a terrifying grip strength capable of crushing carbon into diamonds!
"BOOM!"
Just as [Rocket Warrior] was about to be crushed into scrap metal by a single claw of [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno], the rocket it transformed into suddenly increased its thrust. Just before being caught, it accelerated to evade its claws before [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] could "catch the rocket", and like a mosquito that had evaded a swat, it smugly wiggled its rear, colliding with [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]'s chest!
"GROAN~~"
[Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]'s voice was somewhat pained. After being hit by [Rocket Warrior], it forcefully slammed its own chest, but the hit had already landed, and [Rocket Warrior] had already accelerated away, returning to Joey's Field.
"What's going on? Why wasn't [Rocket Warrior] destroyed!?"
Seeing [Rocket Warrior] freely taunting [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] with its small size, and hitting its mark without suffering a counterattack or being destroyed, Rex was quite surprised.
"I remember a saying: 'Courage is knowing what fear is, facing it, and claiming it as your own'. In other words, even against a despair-inducing monster like [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno], I will carve a path forward with my courage through the dark wasteland!"
Joey's fighting spirit surged. "[Rocket Warrior] is a monster whose full power can only be unleashed by a courageous Duelist. During my Battle Phase, [Rocket Warrior] will gain the ability to not be destroyed by battle, and any battle damage I take from battles it engages in will be 0."
"Also, activated after the Damage Calculation Step of an attack [Rocket Warrior] makes against a monster," Joey's finger precisely pointed to the chest of [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] that [Rocket Warrior] had just hit, "the monster targeted by [Rocket Warrior]'s attack will have its ATK reduced by 500 points until the end of the turn!"
"Wh-What?!"
Under Rex's horrified gaze, [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]'s chest suddenly split open with a wound, and the splattered blood even stained the gems on its body.
[Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] [ATK3900→3400]
"This is bad! With this—" Rex's eyes widened as he looked at the weakened [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno], "[Meteor B. Dragon] now has higher ATK!!"
"Exactly!" Joey exclaimed, punching the air excitedly. "So it's time for you to attack, [Meteor B. Dragon]!"
"Over there? No, over here! Yes, exactly there!" Joey directed [Meteor B. Dragon] where to attack, and ordered, "That spot is the most suitable angle to punch someone!"
"Attack [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno], get a little revenge for being Set face-down earlier, [Meteor B. Dragon]!"
"This move is called, the Joey Meteor Fist!!"
After [Meteor B. Dragon] roared to the sky, it unfurled its broad dragon wings and leaped high, its height even with [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]'s head. Under [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]'s furious gaze, [Meteor B. Dragon] began its dive and acceleration, its body enveloped in dark flames, like a streaking meteor!
"ROAR!"
Provoked repeatedly, [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] angrily extended its claws to attack the oncoming [Meteor B. Dragon]. But [Meteor B. Dragon]'s attack speed was too fast. In an instant, it struck [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]'s body, precisely on the chest where [Rocket Warrior] had just hit it!
"CRASH!"
Like a monster hit by a Kamen Rider's Rider Kick, after being struck by [Meteor B. Dragon]'s attack, which seemed like an act of copyright infringement, the invincible [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno] exploded and was sent to the Graveyard for the second time.
It seems that not surviving three turns is [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]'s eternal destiny.
[Rex: 1100→1000 LP]
"Ultimate~ Conductor~ Tyranno!!"
Rex called out [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]'s name, but it had already been firmly sent to Rex's Graveyard and could no longer respond to Rex.
With his Ace Monster destroyed once again, Rex was somewhat disheartened, but he still pulled himself together and looked at Joey.
"That was a truly powerful combo, Joey. I have to admit, you're stronger right now."
Trying to shake off the shadow of [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno]'s second destruction, Rex's gaze firmly settled on Joey's Field. "But the more this happens, the more my fighting spirit grows. I will definitely strike back next turn!"
Unexpectedly, upon hearing Rex's words, Joey shook his head. "No, Rex, there is no next turn."
"As for why," Joey said, drawing a card from his hand and placing it on his Duel Disk, "During the Battle Phase, I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card [Dimension Breach]!"
"This card can only be activated by returning one face-up Fusion Monster from my Field to the Deck. Then, both players choose up to two monsters banished from the game, and Special Summon them to their respective Fields."
As Joey activated the card, [Meteor B. Dragon], which had just completed an attack on Joey's Field and successfully avenged itself against [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno], dissipated into light with a satisfied expression. Four pillars of light were cast upon Rex's and Joey's Fields.
Seeing the pillars of light, Joey, who seemed prepared, drew two cards from his pocket: "The monsters I've chosen are these two."
"Monsters banished from the game?" Seeing the card Joey activated, Rex took out two cards from his pocket. "The cards I've banished from the game are, and only are, two monsters."
"Then,"
As Rex and Joey, as if telepathically connected, made their declarations in unison and placed their cards on their Duel Disks, within the two pillars of light on both their Fields, a total of four figures returned from the void, revealing their true forms.
The monsters Rex summoned were naturally [Super Conductor Tyranno] and [Swift Velociraptor], which he had banished from his Graveyard earlier to summon [Ultimate Conductor Tyranno].
[Super Conductor Tyranno] [ATK3300]
[Swift Velociraptor] [DEF400]
As Rex had predicted, the monsters Joey had banished were [Meteor Dragon] and [Red-Eyes Black Dragon], which he had banished earlier using the effect of [Dragon's Mirror] to summon [Meteor B. Dragon]. If he were to Special Summon [Swift Velociraptor] in Attack Position, it, with only 1400 ATK, would be attacked by [Red-Eyes Black Dragon], with its 2400 ATK, and his Life Points would be wiped out.
However, if he Special Summoned [Swift Velociraptor] in Defense Position, then everything would be fine.
Thinking this, Rex looked at the two pillars of light on Joey's Field. And as expected, he saw [Red-Eyes Black Dragon] in one of them. And in the other pillar of light, sure enough, was [Time Wizard].
"Huh?!"
"[Time Wizard]?! When did that card—"
"Heh heh, of course it was [Destiny Draw] that I activated earlier." As if he had already known Rex would ask that question, Joey said proudly.
"Before, I always considered [Destiny Draw]'s effect of needing to banish a card after drawing as a negative effect, but Chumley told me, 'True Duelists can even utilize the negative effects of cards', and even truly useless cards can sometimes be useful."
"Speaking of which, I've wanted to say this line for a long time."
Looking at [Time Wizard] on the Field, Joey deliberately put on a cold, arrogant expression. However, Joey, whose DNA was already etched with 'goofball', no matter how he posed, made others want to laugh:
"To deal with you, this card might be better?"
Meanwhile, as Joey's words concluded, [Time Wizard] on his Field, as soon as it emerged from the light pillar and landed on the Field, raised its staff high above its head, and the clock hands within the staff began to spin rapidly.
Seeing the familiar [Time Wizard], even its casting motion was completely consistent with what he remembered, Rex felt a familiar displeasure.
Back in Duelist Kingdom, he had gambled his [Red-Eyes Black Dragon] due to his greed for [Time Wizard], which consequently alerted Joey. That guy used [Time Wizard]'s effect to directly destroy [Red-Eyes Black Dragon] on his Field and send it to the Graveyard, resulting in his greatest defeat during the Duelist Kingdom era.
"When successfully Normal Summoned, Flip Summoned, or Special Summoned, toss a coin. If the coin lands on Heads—"
Joey began explaining [Time Wizard]'s effect, but before he could finish, Rex proactively chimed in from the opposite side: "If Heads, destroy all monsters on my Field whose original ATK is higher than their DEF, and if it's Tails, all of your monsters, Joey, will be destroyed."
"I remember the effect of [Time Wizard] very clearly."
"Heh heh, I was just afraid you'd forgotten."
Joey scratched his head, slightly awkward, and then remembered that if Rex hadn't coveted his powerful [Time Wizard] back then, he wouldn't have lost his [Red-Eyes Black Dragon].
At that time, Joey had indeed drawn [Time Wizard], but if Rex hadn't reminded him, he genuinely wouldn't have remembered its effect. In a way, Rex understood [Time Wizard]'s effect even better than Joey.
Rex watched the clock hands of [Time Wizard] spinning slower and slower. This was supposed to be a crucial moment deciding the outcome of this Duel, but he showed a relieved smile instead, as if he had let go of his pursuit of victory. "I say, Joey, you still love using these gambling cards so much."
"What if, this time, my luck is better, and it lands on Tails?"
Upon hearing this, Joey showed a rare triumphant expression. "While it's true that relying on luck to Duel isn't ideal, it's not just me; everyone believes it. When it comes to luck, I'm number one! And before activating these gambling cards, I can sense what the outcome will be..."
"The result, of course, is Heads!"
As Joey spoke, the hands spun slower and slower, finally slowed to a halt. Finally, [Time Wizard]'s clock hands truly stopped at the 'clock' position, representing Heads!
"Then, Time Magic, activate!" Joey excitedly commanded with a wave of his hand, "Time, fly!"
[Time Wizard], holding its staff high, grasped its staff with both hands as Joey spoke, and slammed its base onto the ground. The magic of time was released through the staff, the ground suddenly cracked, revealing the infinite void hidden behind!
"Heaven-ordained destiny cannot be defied by anyone."
"Your only fate is destruction."
"Only I can stand at the eternal peak."
"In this world where time dissipates, sing your dirge!"
A deep voice, completely unlike [Time Wizard]'s appearance, rang out. As the voice chanted, under the watchful eyes of Rex and Joey, [Swift Velociraptor] and [Super Conductor Tyranno] aged and died in the blink of an eye, turning into fossilized skeletons!
"Time, is etched here."
Putting its staff away, Joey's [Time Wizard] uttered its final chant, snapped its fingers, filling the surrounding void, and then vanished.
Whether the effect activation succeeded or failed, [Time Wizard] would be sent to the Graveyard after using its effect, much like a Spell Card.
Looking at the two dinosaur fossils on his Field and the [Red-Eyes Black Dragon] on Joey's Field, Rex couldn't help but sigh. "I've truly lost to you, Joey. Even though I always felt I had a chance to win during the Duel."
As he spoke, Rex adjusted his hat and spread his arms. "So, begin your final attack!"
"Rex... Mm, alright, here I come, [Red-Eyes]!" Joey met Rex's gaze. From Rex's eyes, Joey saw no trace of bitterness, but rather a joyful acceptance. "This is the final blow, Rex!"
"[Red-Eyes Black Dragon], launch a Direct Attack on 'Dinosaur' Rex!"
"Inferno Fire Blast!"
The dark demonic dragon opened its mouth, and spewed out a sphere of compressed dragon flame, passing unimpeded through the two fossils on Rex's Field, and directly hit Rex.
This 2400 points of battle damage should have given Rex a shock due to the Solid Vision system, but for some reason, Rex felt no pain at all.
Bathed in the furiously burning dark flames, Rex's gaze met Joey's from across the field.
"I lost." Rex's gaze shifted from Joey to [Red-Eyes Black Dragon]. "So Joey, carry my share, too, and become the KC Cup champion with [Red-Eyes Black Dragon]."
"Yeah, I will, Rex."
[Rex: 1000 LP→0]
"The outcome of the Duel is decided! I declare, the victor of this Duel is—"
"Joey Wheeler!"
(end of chapter)
**Chapter 390: America-Exclusive KaibaLand**
Witnessing Joey's victory over Rex and securing his first win in the KC Cup, everyone in the audience seating couldn't help but cheer for him.
While everyone had happy expressions on their faces, Hayato noticed that Mokuba, sitting beside him, had one hand covering his ear, listening to reports on the communication channel, and his complexion was not good at all.
"That was written by me, how could it be wrong?"
"The data channels are all occupied, have you tried turning it off and on again?"
"It's on the same system as the Kaiba Dome? Which idiot designed it!"
"Brother? Never mind then."
"I'm heading over now."
Hayato wasn't the only one who noticed Mokuba's serious expression; Yugi did too. Seeing him remove his hand from his ear, Yugi asked, "What's wrong, Mokuba-san?"
"Yeah, but it's not here at the Kaiba Dome, it's at the Kaiba Land Tower next door." Mokuba looked around, sighed, and lowered his voice, "It's a bit inconvenient to talk in detail here. In short, I might not be able to continue watching the upcoming matches. I'm sorry, Yugi, Hayato."
As he spoke, Mokuba stood up with an apologetic expression, "Although I was really looking forward to your duels, I guess I still have to fulfill my duties as the Vice President of KaibaCorp."
"Something happened at KaibaLand?" Hayato asked, somewhat confused. In his memory, although the KC Cup in the original timeline had problems, they only occurred in the final rounds due to "that Siegfried" or something. It seemed too early for problems to appear now, didn't it?
Moreover, even if that guy who seemed to have come out of Norse Mythology was going to cause trouble, he should be trying to disrupt the fiercely contested KC Cup here at the Kaiba Dome, not causing trouble at the Kaiba Land Tower next door, which was completed around the same time as the Kaiba Dome.
In order to significantly attract passersby who were not very familiar with Duel Monsters to become interested in Duel Monsters, the KC Cup's preliminary duels, with 64 participants, required a total of 32 matches and were divided into two days. Before their turn, no participant could predict who their next opponent would be; it was entirely drawn randomly on site.
—Incidentally, Kaiba, in a rare move of not abandoning the old for the new, brought out again the "Blue-Eyes White Dragon Lottery Machine GO! GO!" that he used on the S.S. St. Ann Airship during Battle City, for use in the random draws—
However, participants could know in advance whether they had a match scheduled for the day, allowing them to arrange their time accordingly. Duelists scheduled to compete today naturally waited at the Kaiba Dome, while those without matches could choose to stay and spectate to gather information, or leave. Of course, most duelists chose the former.
Joey and Mai Valentine's duels were both scheduled for today, while Hayato's and Yugi's matches were scheduled for tomorrow. Kaiba was also dueling tomorrow.
If they weren't in different brackets, preventing them from facing each other early, Hayato guessed that Kaiba had definitely pulled some strings again to put them together, wanting to duel him. It wasn't like Kaiba hadn't done that before.
The reason Hayato stayed to spectate at the venue was also to see if there were any Duelists to be wary of, such as Alister and the "Doma's Three Swordsmen," or if Joey, Yugi, and Kaiba had printed new cards to surprise him, or who the guy whose original name was probably "Siegfried" had disguised himself as, and whether he needed to expose his plot in advance.
However, since KaibaCorp had a problem and he was idle anyway, he was quite willing to lend a hand.
"Do you need me to come along, Mokuba?" Hayato also stood up. "Anyway, the matches coming up are just a bunch of trash duels, it's fine if I don't watch. I'll go with you and lend a hand."
"That would be great, thank you, Hayato."
From afar, Rex, sitting in his seat, tossed a piece of popcorn high into the air, tilting his head slightly so the falling popcorn landed perfectly in his mouth. Just as he was enjoying himself, his gaze happened to fall upon Hayato and Mokuba leaving their seats and heading towards an unknown location via a security passage.
"Hayato Kobayashi? What is that guy up to?"
Tilting his head, Rex indifferently shifted his gaze back.
Compared to Raphael, who was a loyal dog obedient to Dartz, and Alister, whose eyes were solely focused on revenge against Seto Kaiba, Rex was considered the most "unambitious" among the "Doma's Three Swordsmen."
This was not meant as a criticism, because Rex's personal philosophy was to always wish for a peaceful life, finding contentment sufficient. He wouldn't excessively cling to victory or dwell on troubles, nor would he make enemies that caused him sleepless nights. This was his attitude towards the world, and also his happiness.
However, if he had to fight someone, he was confident he wouldn't lose to anyone else.
As for the KC Cup competition, the reason the three of them participated was simply because Alister wanted to. Rex had no great interest in becoming first and being in the spotlight; in his opinion, being a fourth-place finisher who wasn't too flashy but not too bad was sufficient.
If he were to encounter Hayato in a duel, Rex might get serious and go all out, not to prove he was stronger than the King of Duelists, but primarily because he wanted to snatch the cards of the [Egyptian God Cards], which Dartz had mentioned as being very important, from Hayato Kobayashi. It would be a small repayment for Dartz pulling him out of prison back then.
But Rex had seen that Hayato Kobayashi, under the alias "Dan Kuroto," had his duel scheduled for tomorrow, while his own duel was scheduled for today. It was unlikely they would face each other in the short term.
While he did have some pursuit of victory, Rex wasn't so impatient for it that he would resort to any means necessary. It was much better to enjoy his popcorn; why bother looking for Hayato Kobayashi?
Thinking this, Rex tossed another piece of popcorn into the air, but his other free hand reached into his pocket and sent a message to his companions sitting elsewhere:
[Armor Protection] — "Hey, I just saw Hayato Kobayashi. That guy left the competition venue with a kid. Don't know where they're going."
After sending this message, Rex, knowing that Alister was very fixated on Seto Kaiba and had also added Hayato to his list of opponents to defeat, wanted to see Alister's reaction to this provocative message. However, after a period of silence in their "Doma's Three Swordsmen" group chat, Alister sent a message:
[Sea Serpent is Kaiba's Natural Enemy] — "I have no interest in that Hayato fellow at all. If you want to duel him, Rex, go ahead. I don't care."
[Ah~Aetos] — "Alister, I seem to recall you really wanted to duel Hayato before. Why the sudden change of mind?"
[Armor Protection] — "Did you duel him?"
[Sea Serpent is Kaiba's Natural Enemy] — "No, I didn't!"
[Sea Serpent is Kaiba's Natural Enemy] — "Well, uh, mainly, I think it's not good to alert Hayato too early. He's the most famous Duelist worldwide, and the strongest one demonstrated publicly. For Dartz's plan, we should wait until the time is right to duel him and take 'those cards'."
[Sea Serpent is Kaiba's Natural Enemy] — "I solemnly declare, I have never dueled him before, nor have I lost to him, nor was I disgusted by him!"
[Armor Protection] — "Right, right, right. There's absolutely no connection between the two."
Casually replying to Alister, Rex sighed with some disappointment.
Alister really couldn't even lie properly. Anyone could tell that he must have dueled Hayato at some point during the preliminaries and lost, and lost quite miserably at that.
Just as he was about to put away his phone and watch the ongoing duels in the arena to pass the time, with a 'buzz', Rex noticed a new message had appeared in their group chat, and its content surprised him considerably.
[Ah~Aetos] — "Indeed. It's not appropriate to reveal our objectives too early. However, I think we should still conduct basic observation. I'll go take a look."
Raphael is going to see Hayato again?
Huh? Why did I say 'again'?
————Ah~Sherry————
Seto Kaiba, renowned President of KaibaCorp, genius inventor, legendary Duelist, and a severe dueling addict – the kind who couldn't function properly without dueling for a day.
Although it sounds somewhat dreamy, Seto Kaiba's most genuine wish was indeed to establish KaibaLands all over the world.
Kaiba's wish, so aloof and cold, was surprisingly filled with childlike innocence, creating a stark contrast, much like a Hanma Alien claiming their favorite toy was a pink fluffy bunny.
However, Kaiba's wish was merely to build KaibaLands for children to play in. Considering the different customs and traditions of various countries, it was understandable that some game facilities within KaibaLand would be adapted to local conditions, right?
Following behind Mokuba, Hayato passed by a game room. Listening to the sounds of whips, moans, and the rustling of leaves that accompanied the 'plucking of cotton' emanating from inside, Hayato felt an overwhelming urge to make a sarcastic remark. However, considering that such a comment might lead to the world's destruction, he decided to restrain himself for now.
In this first KaibaLand in the American sector, the gap between it and the KaibaLand in Domino City couldn't be described as just 'big'; it was practically two different worlds. The American characteristics Hayato had just heard were secondary; the biggest difference lay in this KaibaLand—
—There was, unbelievably, NO Blue-Eyes White Dragon!!
As if sensing Hayato's confusion, Mokuba explained proactively: "Hayato-bro, you must be wondering why this KaibaLand doesn't have my brother's favorite [Blue-Eyes White Dragon], right?"
"Yeah, just like the West can't lose Jerusalem, how can KaibaLand be without the [Blue-Eyes White Dragon]?" Hayato asked with a serious expression. "Without the [Blue-Eyes], how can KaibaLand showcase its uniqueness? I can only say, my youth is over."
As soon as Hayato finished speaking, a voice, not at all serious, suddenly sounded from behind him as if he were a ghost, startling Hayato.
"What's up! Pegasus?"
"Yes, I am~"
Appearing behind Hayato was none other than Pegasus, who, despite his age, was never serious. Striking a pose reminiscent of some "Chicken Sales Kid Red," Pegasus greeted Hayato: "Aloha, Hayato-boy~"
Hayato cast a rather disgusted glance at Pegasus and asked Mokuba beside him, "How did this perverted old man end up here?"
"Oh, calling me a pervert, so sad~"
Seeing Pegasus's unseemly demeanor, Mokuba, beside Hayato, turned his head away somewhat awkwardly, "It's not like I wanted him involved with KaibaLand."
"Hayato-bro, do you know, although after Battle City, many people recognized the potential within Duel Monsters, the support for the Solid Vision system wasn't quite enough." As he spoke, Mokuba pointed beneath them. "It might be interesting, but it wasn't enough to persuade the American government to allocate a large plot of land for KaibaCorp to build KaibaLand."
"Although KaibaLand was successfully established in America, someone's contribution was indispensable for it."
"It's me, it's me!" Pegasus exclaimed excitedly, raising his hand with a wide smile. "I really approve of Kaiba-boy's dream of KaibaLand, it's such a great vision, so I lent a hand in making it happen."
"By the way, Industrial Illusions also has shares in the American sector of KaibaLand." Pegasus patted Hayato's shoulder. "So, Hayato-boy, you are actually a shareholder here too."
Hayato glanced at Mokuba beside him. Despite a look of helplessness, Mokuba nodded.
This suddenly made Hayato feel a bit smug.
"What? So I'm a shareholder here too. Ahem, so Mokuba, tell this shareholder, what exactly is wrong with KaibaLand?"
"Hayato-bro, you change your tune way too fast!" Mokuba sighed, commenting on Hayato adapting to his capitalist identity in the blink of an eye, and pointed to a room not far away. "The problem is in that area. I originally thought to repurpose it, to prevent my brother from continuing to waste money, so I brought that thing out again and even wrote new programs for it."
"It shouldn't be. I don't think I made any mistakes with anything?"
"So, what exactly is that thing?"
"That thing, it's actually—"
Following the direction Mokuba pointed, Hayato saw a large sign on the wall—
""Experience the New Fun of Duel Monsters! Want to Duel Against Legendary Duelists?""
""Legendary Duelist Gateway!""
Stepping into the spacious play area, the first thing Hayato saw was a red ring suspended in the air, emitting projected light. Beneath the projection, a very familiar person wearing a Duel Disk on their wrist was proudly flipping their bangs.
"That thing, it's actually—"
"It's my clone?! The Sith are coming for revenge! Quickly find Anakin!"
"It's not Star Wars, that's a dueling robot!"
(end of chapter)