Chapter 340 - # Chapter 411-415

Chapter 411: Zigfried von Schroeder's Bizarre Adventure

After two or three Matches, Yugi finally managed to escape the standoff between Téa and Rebecca. He had a valid reason, too: his next Duel was about to begin.

"Phew, I finally escaped," Yugi sighed, patting his chest in relief as he walked towards the Duelist Prep Room.

Compared to the emotionally oblivious Joey, Yugi was quite aware that both Téa and Rebecca harbored feelings for him. But honestly, they were all Yugi's friends. Téa was his childhood friend, and Rebecca was also a family acquaintance. Yugi didn't want to hurt either of them.

Furthermore, Yugi genuinely hadn't given much thought to romance. Being somewhat conservative and introverted, he could only pretend to be clueless and act as if he hadn't picked up on their intentions.

'That was truly a trial like a battlefield, Aibo.'

Yami Yugi teased from within the Millennium Puzzle.

"Seriously, stop making fun of me all the time, Yami Yugi."

For Yugi, only Yami Yugi truly understood him. Because they knew everything about each other, they could share any matter, express any feeling, and confide any thought to one another.

Such a friend was truly hard to come by. Yugi sincerely thanked the Millennium Puzzle for bringing him such a good friend.

Back then, after Solomon Muto returned from an archaeological expedition in Egypt, he brought fragments of the Millennium Puzzle as a gift for Yugi. He told Yugi that whoever completed the Millennium Puzzle would gain the ability to grant wishes. Yugi spent eight years, driven by the desire for friends, piecing together the broken Millennium Puzzle. Then came his encounter with Yami Yugi.

"It's truly wonderful."

Recalling the past, ever since meeting Yami Yugi, he had successively met and befriended Joey, Tristan, Chumley, and Duke Devlin. Now, having gained more and more Bonds, his wish for 'friends' had long been fulfilled. "This peaceful and happy life, it's truly wonderful."

Yugi's exclamation was unintentional, but upon hearing his words, Yami Yugi's mood within the Millennium Puzzle grew complicated. He sighed and said, 'Yes, it truly is a peaceful life...'

No matter how warm the daily life, or how peaceful the existence, ever since Yami Yugi learned from Ishizu in Battle City that he was the Nameless Pharaoh from three thousand years ago, one thing had always been clear in his heart: one day, he would have to seek out his lost Memory.

This meant that he and Yugi were destined to part ways.

The sensitive Yugi seemed to sense Yami Yugi's unusual mood. "What's wrong, Yami Yugi?"

'No, nothing, Aibo.'

Yami Yugi feigned nonchalance and changed the subject. 'It seems your next opponent is 'Zigfried von Schroeder'?'

Yugi, of course, realized that Yami Yugi was changing the subject, but he didn't mind. If Yami Yugi didn't want to talk about it for now, they could discuss it later.

"Hm, the Deck he uses is a Valkyrie Deck, but aside from that, no other information is known," Yugi recalled the intelligence he'd received from Mai Valentine, a troubled expression on his face. "Mai Valentine even Dueled Zigfried von Schroeder, but she couldn't even grasp how she lost the Duel."

"Apparently, after he played just two Cards, Mai Valentine suddenly lost. The same happened with other Duelists who Dueled him."

Yami Yugi couldn't help but ponder: 'Even the Duelists who faced him directly lost without knowing what happened? To make it into the Top 64, Zigfried von Schroeder's opponents couldn't have been weak, yet they still lost in an instant? How incredible.'

"Yes, the Duel ended in an instant," Yugi said, raising his hands as if to grasp something and shouting, "Za Warudo!" Although he didn't know what it meant, Chumley had told him it represented the power to stop time. "It was almost as if time itself had been paused by 'Za Warudo'."

Yami Yugi quipped, 'Aibo, your voice could actually use a bit more Aura. That line sounds more imposing when Chumley says it.'

'But even if we face an enemy who can stop time, it doesn't matter. Don't forget, our goal is to become the KC Cup Champion.'

"Speaking of which…" Yugi said, a bit awkwardly, upon hearing Yami Yugi mention it. "It's all because Grandpa insisted we participate."

Yugi himself wasn't particularly interested in the KC Cup. However, Kaiba had set such a substantial Prize Money for the Champion, successfully attracting the financially struggling Joey, as well as Yugi's Grandpa Solomon Muto, who was always quick to spot an opportunity for profit. It was under Grandpa Sugoroku's persuasion that Yugi reluctantly accepted Kaiba's invitation to compete.

Yami Yugi chuckled, then casually asked, 'So, Aibo, do you need me to step in?'

Yugi thought for a moment, recalling the humiliating scene of being caught between Téa and Rebecca. He quickly shook his head. "No, I'll be fine. Let me get some air. If you, Yami Yugi, take the Field, and this Duel ends too quickly, I'll just have to go back to them."

"Besides, Zigfried von Schroeder's Strategy is so strange. I think it's better for me, who specializes in Counterattacks, to take this one."

As he spoke, Yugi began to organize his Deck, and Yami Yugi's figure materialized behind him. Watching Yugi, who was sitting and adding cards like Torrential Tribute, Solemn Judgment, and Magic Jammer to his Deck, Yami Yugi's lips curved into a gentle smile.

'Unbeknownst to me, you've grown so much, Aibo. You are no longer the introverted person who couldn't stand on a stage.'

'Then, for a change, instead of me fighting as your Substitute, I'll watch your Battle.'

Before long, Yugi, ready for his Duel, walked out of the Duelist Prep Room and stepped onto one side of the Duel Stage. The pink-haired man named 'Zigfried von Schroeder' had already been waiting there for quite some time.

"Hmph, you certainly kept me waiting, Yugi."

Yugi was certain he had never encountered Zigfried von Schroeder before, yet the man's arrogant expression seemed to indicate displeasure. Was it because he was late? But the Duel was only just beginning; even if he arrived early, the Duel couldn't start ahead of time.

Nevertheless, Yugi politely said, "My apologies for keeping you waiting, Mr. Zigfried von Schroeder."

"Hmph, spare me. I have no interest in such an impolite apology," Zigfried von Schroeder sneered dismissively, not even looking at Yugi. He simply tilted his head and lightly pushed the Deck Zone of his Duel Disk. His Deck, which was already half-loaded, triggered the Duel Disk's transformation mechanism, causing it to expand.

Although Yugi didn't quite understand his movements, he could sense a special kind of etiquette in them. If he had to guess, it seemed like the kind of courtesy European nobles would perform before Dueling with Duel swords.

Yugi glanced at the Judge, and after receiving a nod, he also inserted his Deck into his Duel Disk. The two halves of the Duel Disk clicked together to form the Duel Zone, connecting its signal with Zigfried von Schroeder's Duel Disk opposite him. The Life Points displays on both sides lit up with the number "4000".

"In this Match filled with mediocrity, my first opponent in the main competition is the former King of Games, hmm, only then does it barely suit my status," Zigfried von Schroeder assessed Yugi with a scrutinizing gaze. "Though the feeling is somewhat different from what I saw before, it must be my imagination. And those are irrelevant trifles."

"Because the victor of this Duel will only be me. Even you, Legendary Duelist Yugi, will fall before my Valkyrie Deck."

Yugi was not shaken by Zigfried von Schroeder's words. His gaze firm, he replied, "I don't agree with you. I believe the possibilities of Duel Monsters are infinite. No one can determine victory or defeat before a Duel even begins."

"And," Yugi paused, taking a deep breath to steel his resolve, mimicking the tone he remembered Yami Yugi using, "I don't believe I'm weaker than you!"

"Hmph, then let's see what you've got, Yugi." Zigfried von Schroeder sneered coldly, placing his finger on his Deck. Yugi's movements mirrored his.

Both of them simultaneously Drew five Cards, Declaring, "Duel!"

[Yugi: 4000 Life Points]

[Zigfried von Schroeder: 4000 Life Points]

Yugi lowered his head to look at his Hand, wanting to confirm the Cards he drew before deciding whether to take the First Turn. However, Zigfried von Schroeder, despite his noble and elegant demeanor, was quite eager when it came to Duel Monsters. He immediately claimed the right to the First Turn.

"The First Turn is mine. My Turn, Draw!"

Upon seeing the Card he drew, Zigfried von Schroeder frowned. The Strategy he consistently employed with his Valkyrie Deck was a unique pseudo-OTK tactic. The Core of this Strategy lay in two Cards, and as long as he drew both of them, Zigfried von Schroeder could unleash his signature 'instant Duel-ending' ability that he had demonstrated in previous Duels.

To ensure the execution of this Strategy as much as possible, Zigfried von Schroeder always made sure not to Summon Monsters and reveal information unless he had absolute certainty.

Currently, in Zigfried von Schroeder's Hand, one of the Cards had been Drawn, but without the other, the OTK Strategy couldn't be achieved. In that case, he could only Set some Cards on the Field and stall for time by defending.

"I Set two Cards on my Field, then Summon a monster in face-down Defense Position." Playing three Cards from his Hand, Zigfried von Schroeder said arrogantly, "My luck is a bit poor, it seems. You've escaped the fate of defeat, Yugi. My Turn ends here."

'Didn't he draw his key Cards?' Yugi wondered, placing his finger on his Deck and Drawing a Card. "Then it's My Turn, Draw."

He looked down at the Card he drew: Alpha The Magnet Warrior.

Although it was just a Normal Monster with only 1400 ATK, Yugi knew that this Monster was indispensable in his Deck and held a powerful Force.

Since Zigfried von Schroeder didn't immediately execute his instant Duel-ending Strategy, Yugi decided to simply end the Duel before he could.

"I Activate the Spell Card, Unexpected Dai! This Card's Effect allows me, if I control no Monsters on my Field, to Special Summon 1 Level 4 or lower Normal Monster from my Deck. I Special Summon Beta The Magnet Warrior in Attack Position, then Normal Summon Alpha The Magnet Warrior from my Hand."

After playing two Cards, two Rock-Type monsters, each with a distinct appearance and bodies primarily composed of U-shaped magnets, appeared on Yugi's Field.

[Alpha The Magnet Warrior] [Level 4/Earth Attribute]

[Rock-Type/Normal Monster]

[ATK 1400/DEF 1700]

[Beta The Magnet Warrior] [Level 4/Earth Attribute]

[Rock-Type/Normal Monster]

[ATK 1700/DEF 1600]

After consecutively Summoning two unremarkable Normal Monsters, Yugi didn't hesitate, immediately waving his hand and ordering, "Now, entering my Battle Phase. I'll use Beta The Magnet Warrior to Attack that Face-down Position Monster."

Zigfried von Schroeder wore a disdainful expression, his finger pressing the activation button of his Set Card. "I thought the former King of Games' Attack would be far more formidable, but it's merely this level. In that case, I Activate my Set Card, the Continuous Trap, Trial of the Traveler!"

As Beta The Magnet Warrior swung its magnet-equipped hand, about to Attack the Set Monster on Zigfried von Schroeder's Field, a tall Phantom of a Sphinx suddenly appeared before it, blocking its path.

Zigfried von Schroeder said triumphantly, "In Egyptian legends, the human-headed, lion-bodied God-Beast 'Sphinx' enjoys riddles. If you cannot solve its riddle, you cannot proceed."

"When your Monster Declares an Attack, you must randomly choose one Card in my Hand and guess its Card Type. If you guess incorrectly, the Monster that Declared the Attack will be returned to your Hand."

As he spoke, Zigfried von Schroeder raised his hand, and giant projections of the three Cards in his Hand appeared before Yugi.

"So, choose! Which Card is it, and what type of Card is it? A Spell Card, Trap Card, or Monster Card?" Zigfried von Schroeder sneered, confidently stating, "Surely you're troubled now, hesitating about what you should—"

"I guess the middle Card is a Spell Card."

Yugi's voice rang out, causing Zigfried von Schroeder to freeze.

The Cost of guessing incorrectly with Trial of the Traveler was that a hard-won Summoned Monster would be returned to the Hand. How could this person not show an ounce of hesitation?

But in Yugi's eyes, Zigfried von Schroeder saw only confidence, as if he wasn't guessing the Card Type, but rather reading exactly what the Card was.

The middle Card chosen by Yugi shattered with a bang. The Phantom of the Sphinx vanished, revealing the path forward. Beta The Magnet Warrior's swinging fist smashed down, Destroying Zigfried von Schroeder's Set Card, Valkyrie's Chariot, and Sending it to the Graveyard.

(end of chapter)

Chapter 412: Valkyries Appear

"Valkyrie's Chariot" [DEF 1000]

"Magnet Warrior Beta" [ATK 1700]

The monster Zigfried von Schroeder Set on his field was a Valkyrie riding a speeding chariot. Although it looked quite majestic, this monster's ATK was only 500, and its DEF was merely 1000, which was around the level of "Ojama" monsters.

Of course, before it was destroyed and sent to the Graveyard, Yugi noticed the word "Union" in the "Valkyrie's Chariot"'s card effect text. This meant that "Valkyrie's Chariot" was actually a Union monster, a type that could only exert its power by combining with other monsters.

Just like the "XYZ-Dragon Cannon" that both Chumley and Kaiba used, it wasn't at its full power on its own; it could only unleash its full power after combining.

Because "Valkyrie's Chariot" was in Defense Position, even though it was destroyed and sent to the Graveyard, Zigfried von Schroeder took no battle damage. However, next came a Direct Attack from Yugi's other monster, "Magnet Warrior Alpha".

"You actually guessed correctly? Damn it." Siegfried was displeased that his Trap Card didn't activate. "But, 'Trial of the Traveler' is a Continuous Trap, and its effect remains active."

Yami Yugi inside the "Millennium Puzzle" raised an eyebrow: 'It seems this isn't a trial that can be cleared in one attempt. Aibo, what do you plan to do next?'

"If I had a card like 'Mystical Space Typhoon' in my hand, it would be great. As it is now, I can only continue to attack." Yugi said with some helplessness, "Then, I'll continue to use 'Magnet Warrior Alpha' to Direct Attack the opponent."

Hearing this, Zigfried von Schroeder quickly shuffled the three cards in his hand, then raised his hand and said, "Due to 'Magnet Warrior Alpha''s attack declaration, 'Trial of the Traveler''s effect activates again."

"I refuse to believe you can guess correctly this time too!"

The stone Sphinx once again appeared in the path of Yugi's "Magnet Warrior Alpha"'s attack. And this time, Yugi still firmly pointed to the card in the middle: "I choose the card in the middle, and I declare it's a Spell Card!"

"Hmph, how could it be the same card in the same position? Do you really think you can use the same—"

Zigfried von Schroeder's voice abruptly stopped. The card Yugi haphazardly chose shattered with a "crack" sound, and the obstructing Sphinx also disappeared.

"Magnet Warrior Alpha", wielding a magnet sword, now had a clear path to Zigfried von Schroeder. Zigfried von Schroeder could even see the strange light reflected in "Magnet Warrior Alpha"'s beady eyes.

Watching "Magnet Warrior Alpha" getting closer and closer, Zigfried von Schroeder immediately pressed another activate button to activate his Set card: "I won't allow such a completely mediocre Normal Monster to touch me!"

"Activate my Set card, Trap Card 'Counter Gate'! It negates your Direct Attack, and I draw one card!"

A hazy dimensional wall suddenly appeared in front of "Magnet Warrior Alpha". The charging "Magnet Warrior Alpha" failed to brake and crashed directly into it. In just a blink of an eye, "Magnet Warrior Alpha" found itself back on Yugi's field, as if it had never attacked.

Zigfried von Schroeder also drew a card from the top of his Deck. Seeing the card he drew, Zigfried von Schroeder's eyebrows lifted, and he showed a smug expression: "When I draw a Monster Card by 'Counter Gate''s effect, I can Normal Summon it. However, regrettably, I drew a Spell Card."

"But, precisely because I drew this card, your destined defeat has been sealed, Yugi!"

Yugi's brows furrowed.

'Did he draw a crucial card? Does that mean Zigfried von Schroeder's One-Turn Kill strategy is coming?'

Yami Yugi in the "Millennium Puzzle" reminded him: 'Although I don't know what kind of attack it is, let's set up a defensive formation first, Aibo.'

'Understood.'

Yugi nodded, glanced at his four cards in hand, and took out two of them: "Then my Battle Phase ends. In my Main Phase 2, I Set two cards. End Turn."

[Yugi: 4000 LP, Hand: 2]

"Magnet Warrior Alpha" [ATK 1400]

"Magnet Warrior Beta" [ATK 1700]

[Set Cards] X2

Seeing Yugi Set two cards, Zigfried von Schroeder dismissed it: "Useless, useless. My 'Valkyrie' Deck's ultimate offensive cannot be stopped by such weak defense."

"Then, My Turn! Draw!"

Looking at the drawn card, Zigfried von Schroeder's smile grew even wider: "Hmph, it seems fate is on my side. The Gods favor me, Zigfried von Schroeder, and have even provided a heavier stake for your defeat, Yugi."

"I Activate the Spell Card 'Nibelung's Treasure'! From my hand or Deck, I equip one 'Nibelung's Ring' to one of your monsters, and as an exchange, I can draw five cards from my Deck!"

"Drawing five cards at once?!" In the audience stands, Joey was very surprised, his face even showing suspicion. "How is that possible? Just one Equip Spell Card can exchange for five cards in hand? Is that some kind of fake card?"

Mokuba, sitting behind Joey, said with a hint of displeasure: "Hmph, are you doubting KaibaCorp's technical department? No one can breach KaibaCorp's perfect firewall."

Even though it was breached yesterday, that wasn't important.

"Furthermore, 'Nibelung's Treasure' is not some so-called fake card. This card is a legitimate card issued by Industrial Illusions. However, it's said to be a one-of-a-kind card, and it must be activated in conjunction with another equally unique 'Nibelung's Ring', which is why you wouldn't know about it."

Pausing, Mokuba continued, "It seems to be for this reason that while Big Brother was discussing the Forbidden & Limited List with Pegasus, he didn't include this card. But, drawing five cards at once, that's indeed a bit unfair."

"I told you, didn't I?" Joey nodded, also somewhat confused. "How did Pegasus design that card? And what is Nibelung anyway? Is a ring that expensive?"

One should know that cards capable of replenishing a large number of cards at once were not non-existent. For example, Kaiba's "Card of Demise", Joey's "Destiny Draw", and the "Card of Safe Return" that many people had, thus being Limited to 1. But without exception, these cards with large replenishment effects all had certain drawbacks.

The drawback of "Card of Demise", though rarely seen, was that all cards in hand had to be discarded during the fifth Standby Phase after its activation. For "Destiny Draw", you had to banish the same number of cards as you drew. And "Card of Safe Return" was even more potent, letting the opponent also draw until their hand was full.

How could "Nibelung's Treasure" draw five cards with almost no cost?

From Zigfried von Schroeder's Deck, he searched for "Nibelung's Ring" and inserted it into his Spell & Trap Zone to activate: "'Nibelung's Ring', its true name is Andvarinaut, a magical ring from Norse mythology cursed to bring disaster to its wielder."

"While bringing wealth to its owner, it also brings endless misfortune. I'll give this troublesome treasure to you." Zigfried von Schroeder pointed to "Magnet Warrior Beta", the monster with the highest ATK on Yugi's field. "'Nibelung's Ring' can only be activated by the effect of 'Nibelung's Treasure'."

"The monster equipped with this card cannot attack, change its battle position, and its effects are negated. Additionally, the controller of the equipped monster draws two cards during each of their Draw Phases, and must reveal the drawn cards to me. If a Monster Card is drawn, you must discard one Monster Card from those drawn."

Joey in the audience stands understood somewhat: "So, one is for drawing a lot of cards short-term, and the other is for more cards long-term? That's quite a reasonable design—"

"—Not! That's even more imbalanced!" Joey's complaining spirit burned brightly. "If someone finally manages to Summon a powerful monster, he can just use one card to easily deal with their ace monster!"

"Nibelung's Ring" not only restricts attacks and fixes battle positions, but it also seals the monster's effects. This means even Joey's "Gearfried the Iron Knight" would be restrained by this Equip Spell Card.

Furthermore, compared to drawing two cards long-term, drawing five cards short-term is clearly stronger. This card is way too broken, isn't it?

But no matter how much Joey complained, "Magnet Warrior Beta" on Yugi's field was ultimately equipped with "Nibelung's Ring". However, although it was called a ring, the form shown in the virtual projection was an oversized head ring, placed on "Magnet Warrior Beta"'s U-shaped magnet head.

Looking at its size, perhaps it was a ring for a giant or a demon beast?

Despite being made of metal, "Nibelung's Ring" was not firmly attracted by the magnet and could still move freely, seemingly due to some magical energy. Anyway, it definitely wasn't stainless steel.

As "Nibelung's Ring" was equipped to "Magnet Warrior Beta", Zigfried von Schroeder also drew five cards from his Deck. Adding the cards in his hand from the previous Turn after drawing with "Counter Gate", his current hand size was an astonishing nine cards.

"Then, are you ready to face this final attack, Yugi? Behold, this is the ultimate power of the 'Valkyrie' Deck!" Zigfried von Schroeder took a card from his hand. "I Activate the Spell Card 'Valkyrie's Ride'! Appear, my 'Valkyries'!"

"Cleanse this filth and sin before me! 'Valkyrie Fourth', 'Valkyrie Third', 'Valkyrie Second', and 'Valkyrie First'!"

After playing "Valkyrie's Ride", Zigfried von Schroeder triumphantly played all four cards from his hand. In an instant, four monsters appeared simultaneously on his field, and he hadn't even used his Normal Summon for this turn!

"He Summoned four monsters in an instant!?" Yugi exclaimed, looking at the four "Valkyrie" monsters of various shapes and ages that appeared on Zigfried von Schroeder's field. "What exactly is 'Valkyrie's Ride'..."

"Since you asked so sincerely, I shall graciously tell you." Zigfried von Schroeder said smugly, "'Valkyrie's Ride''s effect is to Special Summon all 'Valkyrie' monsters from my hand. However, monsters Special Summoned by this effect are returned to my Deck during the End Phase of this turn."

"But, I don't have an End Phase." Zigfried von Schroeder added a seemingly nonsensical remark, which Yugi found somewhat strange.

Although several monsters were Summoned at once, Yugi's pressure wasn't particularly immense. On one hand, the "Valkyrie" monsters only surprised him in quantity; their ATK wasn't very high. On the other hand, he had defensive measures prepared in his backrow.

"Valkyrie Fourth" [Level 3 / LIGHT]

[Fairy/Effect]

[ATK/DEF 1400/1400]

"Valkyrie Third" [Level 4 / LIGHT]

[Fairy/Effect]

[ATK/DEF 1000/1600]

"Valkyrie Second" [Level 5 / LIGHT]

[Fairy/Effect]

[ATK/DEF 1600/1600]

"Valkyrie First" [Level 6 / LIGHT]

[Fairy/Effect]

[ATK/DEF 1600/1800]

Among the four "Valkyrie" monsters, even "Valkyrie Second" and "Valkyrie First", with the highest ATK, only had 1600 ATK. And looking at the naming convention of the "Valkyrie" archetype, Yugi felt that as long as no cards like "Father" or "Mother" appeared next, "Valkyrie First" should be the strongest.

Even "Valkyrie First" couldn't defeat his "Magnet Warrior Beta" with 1700 ATK on the field, so even if its attack and battle position were sealed, it didn't matter. There was nothing to fear anymore.

However, Yugi, being cautious, still maintained a sliver of vigilance—if the "Valkyrie"'s power was limited to this, how did Zigfried von Schroeder qualify for the official match? And he still hadn't used that "instant battle-ending" ability.

So Yugi believed that perhaps these "Valkyrie" monsters of various ages had effects that hadn't been activated yet.

As expected, just as Yugi considered this possibility, Zigfried von Schroeder declared: "When 'Valkyrie Second' is Summoned or Special Summoned, she has an effect that can be activated!"

"Target one monster on the opponent's field and destroy it!"

Yugi couldn't help but show an "I knew it" expression. Without waiting for "Valkyrie Second" to move to activate its effect, he pressed the activate Set Card button on his Duel Disk: "Before your effect resolves, I will use my Set card!"

(end of chapter)

Chapter 413: Kuriboh, Kuriboh Appears!

"I Activate my Set Card!" Yugi pressed the button to activate his Set Card, and a card on his Back Row flipped open, revealing a green Quick-Play Spell Card: (Land of Demise)!

"How does that saying go?"

"Heroes have their stages for battle, and naturally, Rock-Type Warriors also have environments suited to them."

Yugi smiled. The usually gentle and introverted Yugi rarely displayed such confidence, making Téa in the audience involuntarily feel as if Yami Yugi had taken Yugi's place in the duel.

"The effect of (Land of Demise) is that when the opponent Special Summons a monster, you can activate a Field Spell Card from your Deck?" Zigfried von Schroeder recalled the card's effect and immediately displayed a disdainful expression. "Hmph, a futile struggle. You're not planning to activate the Field Spell Card (Wasteland), are you?"

"Even if (Wasteland) can boost your Rock-Type (Magnet Warrior) monsters by 200 ATK/DEF, what good would that do? You are destined to fall before my (Valkyrie)s!"

"Is that so?" Yugi smiled, searched his Deck for a card and placed it in his Duel Disk's Field Zone. "I never said the Field Spell I was activating was (Wasteland). Because of (Land of Demise)'s effect, I activate the Field Spell Card (Chaos Field) from my Deck!"

"And as an effect that activates when (Chaos Field) is activated, I can add the Ritual Monster (Black Luster Soldier) from my Deck to my hand."

Under the influence of (Land of Demise)'s effect, starting from Yugi's feet, the duel field was replaced by a light blue void. Yugi also added a Ritual Monster from his Deck to his hand.

At the same time, as (Land of Demise)'s effect resolution was completed, the effect of Valkyrie - Second Daughter, which had been temporarily postponed, resumed. A holy white light burst from the longsword in her hand, destroying (Magnet Warrior Beta), which was equipped with (Ring of the Nibelung) on Yugi's field, and sending it to the Graveyard.

However, as (Magnet Warrior Beta) left the field, some changes appeared within the (Chaos Field) that covered the entire field. Next to Yugi, the phantom of (Magnet Warrior Beta) appeared.

"As long as (Chaos Field) is in the Field Zone, each time a monster is sent to the Graveyard from either player's hand or field, a Magic Counter can be placed on (Chaos Field)." Yugi's calm voice resounded.

Zigfried von Schroeder looked at (Alpha The Magnet Warrior), whose ATK had not changed at all, and sneered, "Hmph, a nonsensical effect. In my opinion, it's not even as useful as (Wasteland)'s effect. What good would it do even if you placed ten or eight more Magic Counters on your Field Spell Card?"

"You've already lost the chance to use its effect!"

Zigfried von Schroeder pointed a finger at Valkyrie - Fourth Daughter, who appeared to be the youngest and lowest Level monster on his field: "During my Main Phase, I activate Valkyrie - Fourth Daughter's effect: reveal cards from the top of my Deck equal to the number of (Valkyrie) monsters on my field, other than Valkyrie - Fourth Daughter."

"Since I have three (Valkyrie) monsters on my field other than Valkyrie - Fourth Daughter, I can reveal three cards."

Drawing three cards from the top of his Deck to look at them, Zigfried von Schroeder frowned: "If a Normal Spell Card or Normal Trap Card exists among the cards revealed by Valkyrie - Fourth Daughter, I can choose one of them to add to my hand, then send the remaining cards to the Graveyard. However, there are no Normal Spell Cards or Normal Trap Cards among the cards I revealed, so I return them to the Deck and shuffle."

Although Valkyrie - Fourth Daughter's effect activated to no avail, merely shuffling Zigfried von Schroeder's Deck, he didn't take this too seriously. After all, Valkyrie - Fourth Daughter's effect activation had no cost. If it worked, it would be a bonus; if not, it wouldn't matter.

Moreover, two more (Valkyrie) monsters had yet to use their effects.

"Next is Valkyrie - Eldest Daughter's effect. Its effect is Once per Turn, banish one monster from the opponent's Graveyard, then, until the end of the turn, Valkyrie - Eldest Daughter's ATK becomes equal to the original ATK of the monster banished by this effect."

After Zigfried von Schroeder explained Valkyrie - Eldest Daughter's effect, he arrogantly pointed a finger at the ground: "The monster I will banish is, of course, (Magnet Warrior Beta), which was just destroyed by Valkyrie - Second Daughter's effect!"

"Destroying my monster earlier was not without cost! Be banished from this game!"

As Zigfried von Schroeder's command was issued, (Magnet Warrior Beta), whose physical body slept in the Graveyard, under the gaze of its soul hovering beside Yugi, was banished from the duel. At the same time, the ATK of two monsters on Zigfried von Schroeder's field changed.

Valkyrie - Third Daughter ATK 1000 → 1100

Valkyrie - Eldest Daughter ATK 1600 → 1700

Yugi knew the reason for Valkyrie - Eldest Daughter's ATK change. Zigfried von Schroeder had just said that Valkyrie - Eldest Daughter's ATK would become equal to the original ATK of (Magnet Warrior Beta) that she banished. But why did Valkyrie - Third Daughter's ATK also change without any action from her?

Zigfried von Schroeder immediately provided an explanation: "The final effect is Valkyrie - Third Daughter's: its ATK can increase by 100 for each of the opponent's monsters that were banished."

"This is the offensive of my (Valkyrie)s! Now, prepare to meet your doom, Yugi!"

Zigfried von Schroeder arrogantly waved his hand: "I Declare an Attack with Valkyrie - Eldest Daughter on (Alpha The Magnet Warrior)!"

The Valkyrie, riding a pure white steed, lightly squeezed the warhorse's flanks with her legs. The warhorse and its rider, in perfect sync, charged forward together. Although Yugi's (Alpha The Magnet Warrior) raised its magnetic sword and shield to fiercely resist, it ultimately failed to block the attack, was destroyed, and sent to the Graveyard.

A second Magic Counter was placed on (Chaos Field), and the phantom of (Alpha The Magnet Warrior) appeared next to Yugi. At the same time, the excess battle damage was deducted from Yugi's Life Points. However, because it was only 300 points, Yugi didn't react much.

Yugi: 4000 → 3700 LP

"It's not over yet. Next is the total attack of the remaining (Valkyrie) monsters." Zigfried von Schroeder chuckled coldly and arrogantly lifted his head. "It's quite disappointing, Yugi. I recall that Seto Kaiba once considered you an opponent to contend with. Is this truly the extent of your strength?"

"Thinking about it, Kaiba's abilities in Duel Monsters are nothing special either. Or perhaps, I'm simply too strong?" Narcissistically caressing his flowing pink hair, Zigfried von Schroeder pointed at Yugi: "Then Direct Attack the opponent's Duelist, (Valkyrie)s!"

"All units, Attack!"

Valkyrie - Fourth Daughter ATK 1400

Valkyrie - Third Daughter ATK 1100

Valkyrie - Second Daughter ATK 1600

On Zigfried von Schroeder's field, the combined ATK of the three (Valkyrie)s had reached a staggering 4100 points. One round of attacks would definitely be enough to clear Yugi's Life Points. Yet, even as the three (Valkyrie)s, having received Zigfried von Schroeder's command, charged forward towards him, Yugi still hadn't activated the Set Card on his field.

The (Valkyrie)s, having charged as three phantoms, returned to Zigfried von Schroeder's field. Watching Yugi's Life Points on the opposite side continuously drop only after the attack ended, Zigfried von Schroeder showed a confident smile. Just as he was about to say something, he saw Yugi's Life Points drop to exactly 1200 points, then stop falling.

Yugi: 3700 → 2300 → 1200 LP

The battle damage from Valkyrie - Fourth Daughter and Valkyrie - Third Daughter was indeed calculated. But the attack of Valkyrie - Second Daughter, which attacked alongside them, was not settled.

Zigfried von Schroeder's confusion was answered by the third phantom that appeared next to Yugi.

"Kurikuri~" The soul of the fluffy spherical cute creature appeared beside Yugi, making a "fierce" expression at the bad women who had just attacked its master, but it only made it seem all the more adorable.

"At the moment Valkyrie - Second Daughter attacked me, I used the effect of (Kuriboh) in my hand." His Life Points plummeted from 3700 to just 1200. Although it wasn't a Shadow Game, the burden caused by the Solid Vision System was real. Yugi felt a little uncomfortable, but he still raised the card in his hand.

"(Kuriboh)'s effect is: when an opponent's monster attacks, during damage calculation, you can discard this card from your hand to activate it. Any battle damage you would take from that battle becomes 0. At the same time, since (Kuriboh) was sent to the Graveyard from my hand, I can place another Magic Counter on (Chaos Field)."

Sending the (Kuriboh) card to the Graveyard, and looking at the phantom of (Kuriboh) protecting him, Yugi smiled, "Thank you for saving me, (Kuriboh)."

"Kuriri~" (Kuriboh) squinted its eyes, and chuckled shyly.

Looking at Yugi warmly interacting with his monster, Zigfried von Schroeder, however, was disdainful. "Hmph, even at this point, are you still playing make-believe with mere illusory Duel Monsters?"

"Because of that monster, you seem to have seen an opportunity to survive this turn, let my (Valkyrie)s return to the Deck, and then mount a counterattack? You are gravely mistaken, Yugi!" Zigfried von Schroeder drew a card from his hand. "I said something earlier: 'I have no End Phase.' That statement doesn't just mean I have absolute certainty of victory!"

"Literally, it means I will use a power that transcends fate, to finish you in this fleeting moment."

"So don't blink, Yugi, the pain will only last a moment!"

"I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card—"

As the card in Zigfried von Schroeder's hand was played, both Yugi and Yami Yugi within the (Millennium Puzzle) could feel an invisible power expanding outwards from the card in Zigfried von Schroeder's hand, enveloping the entire field in an instant.

Although its manifestation was somewhat similar to the Field Spell Card (Chaos Field) Yugi had just activated, the Quick-Play Spell Card Zigfried von Schroeder activated, whose name Yugi hadn't caught yet, immediately activated its own effect the moment it was Set. An indescribable feeling instantly obscured Yugi's senses.

This feeling, Yugi knew where he had encountered it before: it was the feeling when (Time Wizard) successfully activated its effect!

As a golden light shimmered on the "Eye of Udjat" on the front of the (Millennium Puzzle), this strange feeling instantly receded from Yugi. The two Yugis, inside and out, having escaped this peculiar experience, finally heard the name of the card Zigfried von Schroeder had declared—

"I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card, (Mischief of the Time Goddess)!"

"In a world where time is lost, chant a lament!"

After speaking these words, Zigfried von Schroeder's face showed a smug expression: "Hehehe, I've wanted to say that for a long time. But after activating this card, no one will be able to hear it anyway."

"(Mischief of the Time Goddess)'s ability is to sever linearly continuous time and jump to the start of my Battle Phase in a specified future. In other words, it's a card that skips all disadvantages, erases time, and creates a world under my dominion." Looking at the calm-faced Yugi, Zigfried von Schroeder sneered, "Unbeknownst to you, you'll be defeated and leave the field within the skipped time, Yugi."

"However, I refuse."

"What?!"

Zigfried von Schroeder had expected Yugi to be like everyone else he'd encountered before, falling into an unresponsive state and being defeated and left the field after (Mischief of the Time Goddess) was activated. But Yugi actually reacted?!

A second person had entered a world that should have been his alone to act within. It was as disgusting as finding someone else's sweaty scent in his own exclusive bed!

After a slight surprise, Zigfried von Schroeder regained his composure, a sarcastic smile on his lips: "As expected of Yugi, you truly exceed my expectations. But even so, what difference does it make?"

"In the previous turn, you must have already used all your means. If your Set Card could be used, it would have been activated by now. It wouldn't have remained Set until now."

"As for my (Valkyrie)s on the field, although Valkyrie - Eldest Daughter's ATK returned to its base value because it's now the next turn, their ability to attack has also been restored!"

"With no monsters on your field to act as a defensive wall, only an unknown card in your hand and a useless Ritual Monster, and your Set Card most likely useless, you are destined to lose!"

(Author's note: Most of the [Valkyrie] deck effects are based on the Anime versions, because the Anime cards are already strong and unrealistic enough, there's no need to strengthen them with Real Card versions.)

(end of chapter)

Chapter 414: Use Your Monsters to Deliver Your Final Defeat

"With no Monsters on the Field to serve as a defensive wall, only one unknown Card and an unusable Ritual Monster in your Hand, and your Set Card most likely useless, you are finished!"

The Effect of `(Mischief of the Time Goddess)`, a Quick-Play Spell, is to skip the current Phase to the start of the activator, Zigfried von Schroeder's, next Battle Phase. Thanks to this ability, he not only circumvented the drawback of `(Valkyrie's Ride)` returning the `(Valkyrie)` Monsters to the Deck but also restored the Attack capability of his `(Valkyrie)` Monsters that had already attacked once.

Zigfried von Schroeder felt victory was within his grasp, convinced he had successfully cornered Yugi, a formidable opponent even for Seto Kaiba.

Although Yugi still had two Cards in his Hand and one Set Card, if he could have Activated a Set Card like `(Absorption Shield)`, he would have done so already. Even a second `(Kuriboh)` in Yugi's Hand could only block one Attack and do no more.

Zigfried von Schroeder might have appeared somewhat arrogant and overbearing, but his confidence was built on an absolute belief in victory. If Yugi had shown even a hint of leeway in the previous Battle Phase, Zigfried von Schroeder would have held back his offensive to preserve his secret winning move.

Defeating Yugi and advancing to the next round was necessary, but Zigfried von Schroeder's objective had always been Kaiba. To face Kaiba, who was in a different bracket, Zigfried von Schroeder needed to keep winning until the Semi-finals. The strategy involving `(Mischief of the Time Goddess)` was one of his Ace Cards, and he needed to preserve it as much as possible before facing Seto Kaiba.

Of course, Zigfried von Schroeder hadn't expected Yugi to maintain his normal reactions despite `(Mischief of the Time Goddess)` being Activated.

However, after witnessing Yugi's Life Points clinging on with only 1200 remaining, Zigfried von Schroeder was absolutely certain of his inevitable victory, which would be decided without even waiting for the next Turn.

Glancing at his `(Valkyrie)` Monsters, ready for Battle on his Field, Zigfried von Schroeder confidently raised his head and haughtily ordered, "Yugi, with only 1200 Life Points left, I only need to use this one Monster."

"The `(Valkyrie's Fourth)` with 1400 Attack points, declare a Direct Attack on Yugi! Offer me victory!"

Receiving Zigfried von Schroeder's command, `(Valkyrie's Fourth)`, the youngest `(Valkyrie)`, though unable to ride a warhorse like her sisters due to her age, still assumed a charging stance with her sword and shield, attacking towards Yugi.

Precisely because `(Valkyrie's Fourth)`'s movement was slightly slower, Yugi had enough time to exclaim, "The `(Valkyrie)` Deck is truly impressive! Not only the cooperation between Monsters, but even their weapon Equipment is incredibly powerful."

"So strong, truly too strong."

"Heh heh, even if you say that, do you think I'd be soft-hearted enough to let you survive another Turn?" Zigfried von Schroeder said coldly. "Don't forget, I've already declared an Attack; this isn't something that can simply be withdrawn!"

Yugi shook his head, "No, that's not what I mean."

"Zigfried von Schroeder, while it might seem to you that you forced me into a corner before Activating `(Mischief of the Time Goddess)` to secure victory with a single blow, in reality, this was all within my calculations!"

"Wh-what?!"

Under Zigfried von Schroeder's astonished, even somewhat frightened gaze, Yugi pressed the Activate button for his Set Card on his Duel Disk.

"Precisely because I knew you possessed the ability to end a Duel in an instant, I deliberately hid this Card from the beginning, willingly exposing myself to danger. And just as I predicted, you dismissed this Card as useless, using your decisive `(Mischief of the Time Goddess)`."

The Card on Yugi's Field flipped open, and Zigfried von Schroeder's expression instantly changed. "That Card is!"

"I Activate the Trap Card, `(Mirror Force)`!" As the Card was Activated, a subtle smile involuntarily curled on Yugi's lips, seemingly in a very good mood.

It made sense; after playing the "pig eating tiger" role for so long, suppressing himself, he could finally feel triumphant. Isn't this the very moment a Trap-heavy Strategy Player lives for?

Just as Zigfried von Schroeder himself had said, once he declared an Attack, he couldn't retract it. As a smooth, translucent arc shield, like a mirror, unfolded before Yugi, `(Valkyrie's Fourth)`, completely unaware of the impending danger, thrust out her sharp sword.

The noble power of Hanoi descended upon this place.

In an instant, a devastating force swept across Zigfried von Schroeder's Field. Starting with `(Valkyrie's Fourth)`, who was closest to the epicenter of the explosion, Zigfried von Schroeder's `(Valkyrie)` Monsters were successively Destroyed by the Effect of `(Mirror Force)` and Sent to the Graveyard with a shriek.

As the shockwave gradually dissipated and the smoke shrouding Zigfried von Schroeder's Field began to clear, Yugi's demeanor calmed, and he spoke coolly, "`(Mirror Force)` is a Trap Card that can be Activated in Chain to a Monster's Attack Declaration. Its Effect is to Destroy all Attack Position Monsters on your opponent's Field."

"With this, Zigfried von Schroeder, all of your `(Valkyrie)` Monsters are now—"

"Don't underestimate me, you fiend!"

Yugi's words were cut off by an enraged Zigfried von Schroeder. Victory was within his grasp, only one step away, and he had even declared it, only for the situation to be reversed by a single Card. What a disgrace!

Feeling such an immense humiliation, Zigfried von Schroeder, furious, waved his hand violently and glared fiercely at Yugi. "Who told you all my Monsters were Destroyed?!"

"Clang~"

Accompanying Zigfried von Schroeder's words, from amidst the dissipating dust, `(Valkyrie's First)`, her sword put away and replaced with a golden spear, emerged, supporting herself with the spear.

"Chaining to your `(Mirror Force)`, I also Activated this Quick-Play Spell Card, `(Forbidden Lance)`, from my Hand," Zigfried von Schroeder inserted a Card into his Duel Disk. "At the Cost of decreasing her Attack by 800 points until the End Phase, `(Valkyrie's First)` has been granted immunity to the Effects of all other Spell/Trap Cards besides `(Forbidden Lance)`!"

[`(Valkyrie's First)` ATK1600→800]

"Even with only 800 Attack points, the humiliation I suffered must be repaid!"

With his Cards almost depleted and only `(Valkyrie's First)` left on his Field, the most rational course of action for Zigfried von Schroeder at this moment would have been to End his Battle Phase and then change `(Valkyrie's First)` to Defense Position in his Main Phase 2 to ensure his defense, rather than ordering her to continue attacking.

However, Zigfried von Schroeder still did it.

Whether you call him impulsive or say his emotions outweighed his rationality, Zigfried von Schroeder could only be described as "fuming" right now. The superiority he felt just moments ago, thinking "even a Legendary Duelist is nothing, victory is mine," instantly turned into "everything I did was calculated." The sheer emotional drop caused Zigfried von Schroeder's already fragile mental state to completely explode.

"`(Valkyrie's First)`, Direct Attack on Yugi!" Zigfried von Schroeder completely ignored the unwillingness on his Monster's face, imperiously ordering, caring nothing if such a choice would lead to his Monster's sacrifice.

In his mind, although `(Valkyrie)` Cards were quite rare, they were ultimately just tools.

`(Valkyrie's First)`, holding `(Forbidden Lance)`, sighed helplessly and weakly tugged at her warhorse's reins, urging it to charge towards Yugi. No matter how unwilling, the rules of Duel Monsters were not something she could defy. Her golden spear thrust out, piercing through Yugi's body.

[Yugi: 1200→400 Life Points]

Seeing Yugi's already low Life Points drop again, Zigfried von Schroeder laughed triumphantly, his mindset somewhat twisted as he said, "Weren't you quite grand just now, Yugi? Talking about 'everything is within your calculations,' but you're just an inferior being. What right do you have to feel superior?"

"Noble and pure blood flows through my veins; I am the absolute elite of humanity. A mere subordinate dares to stand above me and utter such arrogant words, simply as hateful as that Kaiba, who got lucky and infiltrated the upper class!"

Zigfried von Schroeder had completely cast aside his jealousy and disgust for Kaiba at this moment, because, for now, his eyes saw only Yugi as an enemy. More precisely, Zigfried von Schroeder had completely merged his dissatisfaction and hatred for Kaiba into his rage against Yugi.

At a banquet when Zigfried von Schroeder was very young, the Schroeder Family, who controlled the Schroeder Group, received an invitation from KaibaCorp to attend. There, he met Seto Kaiba, who had recently been adopted by Gozaburo.

Unaware of the true circumstances at the time, Zigfried von Schroeder assumed Seto Kaiba was also an elite child who had received a good education. Because Gozaburo had mentioned about Seto Kaiba, "Seto is a genius, highly capable in leadership and digital fields," Zigfried von Schroeder developed a desire to befriend and compete with him.

Thus, while Gozaburo was showing off KaibaCorp's latest firewall, which Seto Kaiba had coded, to other invited guests, Zigfried von Schroeder secretly used his hacking skills to breach the firewall and infiltrate KaibaCorp's internal network with a virus program.

At that moment, seeing Seto Kaiba, who had been maintaining a disdainful expression and an air of arrogance since the start of the banquet, reveal a look of surprise, Zigfried von Schroeder felt utterly delighted.

However, shortly after the banquet ended, just as he left the venue, Zigfried von Schroeder's personal terminal was reverse-hacked and Overloaded, burning out. Before it burned out, his terminal received a recording from Kaiba:

"Ignorant and reckless mouse, are you very excited about breaching my firewall?"

"Unfortunately, you are merely a Mediocre Duelist. You couldn't even see through my disguise and were gloating."

"You didn't even realize that a program I set up had reverse-hacked your own device. Hmph, prepare for KaibaCorp's legal team."

It wasn't until the circuit board overheated and almost burned his skin that Zigfried von Schroeder realized that his self-proclaimed "strongest genius" was merely a unilateral delusion, and "being rivals with Seto Kaiba" was out of the question. The shadow named "Seto Kaiba" had begun to loom over Zigfried von Schroeder, who had always considered himself superior.

Zigfried von Schroeder, who had intended to befriend Seto Kaiba, his fellow future heir to a military-industrial group, found that his desire for friendship had twisted into something else due to this realization of talent. His goal became to surpass Kaiba and prove his own talent.

But as time went on, after one covert and overt confrontation after another, Zigfried von Schroeder despairingly discovered that he was not the genius he thought he was. The gap between him and Seto Kaiba not only didn't narrow but grew ever wider, especially after he learned from his father that Seto Kaiba was not Gozaburo's biological son but merely an adopted "commoner." Zigfried von Schroeder's obsession with Kaiba completely transformed into jealousy and hatred.

Later, Seto Kaiba and Zigfried von Schroeder each became chairmen of their respective groups, taking on a new stage, but the outcome remained unchanged. The Schroeder Group, constantly suppressed in the military-industrial sector, hadn't even had time to transition when KaibaCorp transformed into an entertainment company specializing in Duel Monsters. Zigfried von Schroeder painstakingly developed a similar Solid Vision system, but before he could promote it, KaibaCorp had already signed a contract with Industrial Illusions, the publisher of Duel Monster Cards.

Repeatedly suppressed, Seto Kaiba had become Zigfried von Schroeder's ultimate obsession. Yugi's actions just now could be said to have recreated Kaiba's disdainful and contemptuous attitude towards Zigfried von Schroeder in a subtly similar way.

It was no wonder Zigfried von Schroeder would project his resentment towards Kaiba onto Yugi.

As his Life Points dropped again, even without it being a Shadow Game, Yugi felt a trace of fatigue, lightly panting with two Cards in his Hand.

Zigfried von Schroeder glanced at Yugi, a pleased smile on his face, as if he had hallucinated Yugi as Kaiba. "I will prove it; I am the elite. My talent surpasses yours. Your struggles will only lead to despair."

"I Set one Card from my Hand, End Turn."

[Zigfried von Schroeder: 4000 Life Points, Hand 1]

[`(Valkyrie's First)` ATK800→1600]

[`(Trial of the Traveler)` Set Card]

Zigfried von Schroeder was displeased that he couldn't end the Duel in one Turn as he declared, but he was very confident in his defensive lineup.

Don't let the fact that he only had `(Valkyrie's First)` in Attack Position on his Field fool you; the `(Trial of the Traveler)` on his Backrow, which could block Monster Attacks, was still there. Although Yugi had correctly guessed the answer twice in a row, the unyielding Zigfried von Schroeder believed Yugi's good luck wouldn't last.

Activating `(Trial of the Traveler)` required Zigfried von Schroeder to have a Card in his Hand. Therefore, he intentionally kept a Monster Card, `(Chariot of Destiny)`, in his Hand to fulfill the activation condition, and this was also a Trap Zigfried von Schroeder had laid.

The `(Valkyrie's Ride)` Zigfried von Schroeder Activated last Turn had the Effect "Special Summon all `(Valkyrie)` Monsters from your Hand," meaning regardless of Zigfried von Schroeder's willingness, he had to play all `(Valkyrie)` Monsters from his Hand that could be Special Summoned. At that time, he had four `(Valkyrie)` Monsters in his Hand.

Thus, he Summoned four `(Valkyrie)` Monsters to the Field, leaving only one Monster Zone open. Anyone making a judgment would deduce, "Since Zigfried von Schroeder Summoned four `(Valkyrie)` Monsters after `(Valkyrie's Ride)` was Activated, he definitely has no `(Valkyrie)` Monsters left in his Hand." Subconsciously, they would naturally assume Zigfried von Schroeder had no Monster Cards in his Hand.

And coincidentally, Zigfried von Schroeder did indeed have a Monster Card in his Hand.

By using the Card's Effect as misdirection, Zigfried von Schroeder felt he was truly a genius.

As for Yugi Activating some other Card to Destroy `(Trial of the Traveler)`? There was even less need to worry, because Zigfried von Schroeder's Set Card was `(Judgment of Anubis)`, which had the ability to Negate a card's Effect that "Destroys Spell/Trap Cards on the Field" and at the same time Target an opponent's Face-up Position Monster, Destroy it, and inflict Damage to the opponent's Life Points equal to that Monster's Attack.

Furthermore, Zigfried von Schroeder's current Life Points were still at a pristine 4000, 1000% of Yugi's mere 400 Life Points. He absolutely couldn't lose!

Zigfried von Schroeder, unaware of how strong Yugi was at Life Point Lock, thought so proudly.

Yugi was unaware of Zigfried von Schroeder's thoughts. After flashing a reassuring smile to Dark Yugi beside him, he took a deep breath, placed his fingers on his Deck, and Drew a Card.

"My Turn, Draw!"

After Drawing a Card from his Deck and Adding it to his Hand, Yugi didn't rush to Activate it. Instead, he looked behind him.

Because of the Effect of `(Mirror Force)` from the previous Turn, three of Zigfried von Schroeder's `(Valkyrie)` Monsters were Destroyed and Sent to the Graveyard, causing three more Magical Energy counters to be added to the Field Spell Card, `(Chaos Field)`. At this moment, the phantoms of three `(Valkyrie)` Monsters of varying ages stood behind Yugi.

Yugi calmly declared, "I Activate the Effect of the Field Spell Card, `(Chaos Field)`. Once per Turn, I can remove three Magical Energy counters from it, and then I can Add one Ritual Spell Card from my Deck to my Hand."

Zigfried von Schroeder scoffed, "Using the Field Spell's Effect to gather Ritual Monsters and Ritual Spell Cards early? Hmph, it's useless. Even with an Altar and a target for Tribute, without Tributes, it's all in vain."

"Normal Ritual Spell Cards require Tributing Monsters from the Field or Hand for a Ritual Summon, that is correct." Hearing Zigfried von Schroeder's words, Yugi calmly Searched for a Card from his Deck and then inserted it into his Duel Disk. "But the Card I'm Activating is no ordinary Ritual; it's `(Advanced Ritual Art)`!"

"The reason it's called `(Advanced Ritual Art)` is that I can Send Normal Monsters from my Deck to the Graveyard for a Ritual Summon, until their combined Levels are equal to the Ritual Monster's Level!"

As Yugi Activated `(Advanced Ritual Art)`, an Altar rose on his Field. The Level 4 `(Queen's Knight)` and the third Magnet Warrior, `Magnet Warrior Gamma`, spontaneously appeared from Yugi's Deck and willingly offered themselves to the Altar.

"Their combined Levels are Level 8, one Soul guides Darkness, one Soul guides Light!" Yugi held up the Card in his Hand. "With a sharp sword, cleave through this despairing chaos and forge a future of hope!"

"Ritual Summon! `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`!!"

On Yugi's Field, a flash of sword light swept across. A pure, unburdened slash, controlling even Time and Space, was delivered. From the chaos behind that sword light, the new form of `Black Luster Soldier`—`Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`—slowly emerged.

[`Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier` Level 8/Earth]

[Warrior-Type/Ritual/Effect]

[3000 ATK/2500 DEF]

`Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`, with Battle Power equivalent to a `_Blue-Eyes White Dragon_`, was clearly much more elaborately armed than `Black Luster Soldier`, adorned with many magic-infused jewel decorations. The shape of its Armor, shield, and battle blade had also changed somewhat.

At the same time, it had transformed from a Level 8 Vanilla Monster Ritual Monster into an Effect Monster.

"`Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`!?" Zigfried von Schroeder could clearly feel the pressure emanating from this Monster, but he wasn't worried that Yugi would gain any winning chances from it. "So what if you Summon a Monster with Attack points equal to `_Blue-Eyes White Dragon_`?"

"No matter how high its Attack, it's meaningless if it can't hit!"

Although Zigfried von Schroeder didn't say it explicitly, Yugi could guess his meaning: it referred to `(Trial of the Traveler)` in Zigfried von Schroeder's Backrow. Although Yugi had the courage to guess, if he could, he actually didn't want to risk everything; he was fundamentally a safety-first strategist.

The bad news was that the Card he just Drew was not a Card that could Destroy the Backrow, so he couldn't deal with `(Trial of the Traveler)` for now. The good news was that the Card he Drew this Turn was much more practical than Cards like `(Mystical Space Typhoon)`.

"I Activate the Spell Card, `(Pot of Greed)`, and Draw two Cards from my Deck." Yugi placed his fingers on his Deck and Drew two Cards. Upon seeing the Cards, he couldn't help but smile. "Yosh, I Drew the key Cards!"

"Then, I Activate the Effect of `(Double Cyclone)` from my Hand! This Card allows me to Target one Spell/Trap Card on my Field and one Spell/Trap Card on my opponent's Field, Destroying both selected Cards!" Yugi unhesitatingly inserted `(Double Cyclone)` into his Duel Disk, pointing a finger at Zigfried von Schroeder's Backrow.

"I choose your `(Trial of the Traveler)` on your Field, and my Field Spell Card, `(Chaos Field)`. Destroy both of these Cards!"

A red and a yellow dual-colored cyclone appeared on Yugi's and Zigfried von Schroeder's Fields. Apart from the color difference, the two cyclones, like reflections in a mirror, attacked Yugi's `(Chaos Field)` and Zigfried von Schroeder's `(Trial of the Traveler)` respectively. Yugi expected to see an astonished expression on Zigfried von Schroeder's face, but to his surprise, he merely curled his lips contemptuously and then burst out laughing.

"Hmph hmph, heh heh, hahahahahaha!!" Zigfried von Schroeder's laughter was unrestrained. "I can't believe you fell into this Trap so easily, Yugi! Everything you've done was precisely within my design!"

"Destroy my Cards? That's exactly what I want! You've been fooled, Yugi, this is my winning Strategy!" Zigfried von Schroeder unhesitatingly pressed the button to Activate his Set Card. As `(Judgment of Anubis)` was revealed, Zigfried von Schroeder also Discarded `(Chariot of Destiny)` from his Hand, Sending it to the Graveyard.

Although this Card was a necessary condition to Activate `(Trial of the Traveler)`, victory was clearly just one step away for him now, and he no longer needed this Card.

Yugi was slightly surprised to see `(Chariot of Destiny)` Sent to the Graveyard, because he had truly been misled by Zigfried von Schroeder's `(Valkyrie's Ride)` before seeing this Card. His guesses for Zigfried von Schroeder's Hand had only considered Spell and Trap Cards, completely forgetting that `(Valkyrie's Ride)` could leave Monsters other than `(Valkyrie)` in Zigfried von Schroeder's Hand.

It was fortunate that Zigfried von Schroeder discarded it, otherwise Yugi might truly have fallen for it.

As `(Chariot of Destiny)` was Sent to the Graveyard, the Effect of `(Judgment of Anubis)` began to Activate. `(Double Cyclone)`, which was moments away from Destroying two Cards, suddenly vanished from the Field. In its place stood a strange statue of Anubis, emanating a mysterious Aura.

"`(Judgment of Anubis)` requires one Card from my Hand as a Cost to Activate. Before the God of Death from Egyptian mythology, your Quick-Play Spell Card, `(Double Cyclone)`, which has an Effect that 'Destroys Spell/Trap Cards on the Field,' has its Activation and Effect completely Negated and Destroyed," Zigfried von Schroeder said proudly. "Furthermore, you must bear the divine punishment!"

Dark Yugi, floating beside Yugi, unconsciously raised an eyebrow. For some reason, hearing Zigfried von Schroeder's threat, Dark Yugi felt that Anubis's punishment was nothing to worry about.

Zigfried von Schroeder pointed his finger at Yugi's `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier` on the Field: "After the first Effect, `(Judgment of Anubis)` can Destroy one Face-up Position Monster on the opponent's Field and inflict Damage to the opponent Player equal to that Monster's Attack!"

"Suffer your just deserts, Yugi! Let your own Monster deliver your final defeat!"

A flash of light from the black Anubis statue, and a dark sword shot towards `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`, as if to gouge out its Heart.

If this blow connected, not only would Yugi's last hope—`Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`—be Destroyed and Sent to the Graveyard, but Yugi's Life Points would also be instantly wiped out by the staggering 3000 points of Effect Damage, leading to his defeat!

Yugi, of course, wouldn't stand by and watch this happen. He immediately Drew a Card from his Hand and Activated it: "I won't let you Destroy `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`!"

"I Activate the Quick-Play Spell Card `(Forbidden Dress)`, Targeting `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`. Its Attack will decrease by 600 points until the End Phase, but it will not be targeted by Effects, nor will it be Destroyed by Effects!" Yugi declared with resolute eyes. "This way, `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier` won't be Destroyed by `(Judgment of Anubis)`!"

Beyond `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`'s enchanted Armor, pure Light attribute coalesced into a translucent Holy Garment, enveloping it. Though seemingly thin, when the sword from `(Judgment of Anubis)` struck the Holy Garment, it produced a crisp "clank" sound.

Even the noble untargetable `(Judgment of Anubis)` failed to pierce the target's defense.

[`Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier` ATK3000→2400]

Zigfried von Schroeder gnashed his teeth in annoyance: "Idiot, so what if you saved your Monster? The Destruction Effect and Damage Effect of `(Judgment of Anubis)` are not sequential conditions but are processed in parallel."

"Although the Damage is reduced to 2400 points because of `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`'s Attack decrease, it is still enough to clear your Life Points! Just lose now!"

Unable to Destroy `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`, the black sword decisively turned into a Phantom, bypassing his defense and heading straight for Yugi. Although slightly dimmed by `(Forbidden Dress)`'s influence, it was still a fatal blow to Yugi!

Seeing this, Yugi looked at his last Card in Hand and, surprisingly, smiled. "Yes, such an Attack is indeed something I cannot withstand."

"In that case, I'll return this Damage to you, Zigfried von Schroeder!"

"What?!"

Yugi played his last Card: "My final Card is the Quick-Play Spell Card `(Curse of Painful Soul)`!"

"This Card allows me to transfer Effect Damage inflicted to me by my opponent's Activated card, to be borne by the opponent Duelist!"

"Take this blow, Zigfried von Schroeder!"

Eyeing the black sword about to fall on Yugi, a string of mysterious Runes protected Yugi's body, preventing `(Judgment of Anubis)`'s Power from invading Yugi's body. Instead, this sword was invaded and controlled, changing its direction and striking back at Zigfried von Schroeder!

"How could this—how could this happen?!" Zigfried von Schroeder had never imagined that the last Card in Yugi's Hand would successfully counter his decisive blow. Watching the sword, symbolizing the Effect Damage Power of `(Judgment of Anubis)`, draw closer, Zigfried von Schroeder screamed in panic:

"Don't come near me, ahhhhh!!!"

But unfortunately, his refusal could not change the power of the Rule. The black longsword instantly pierced through Zigfried von Schroeder's body, transforming into black smoke and dissipating along with the Anubis statue. An extremely intense pain invaded Zigfried von Schroeder's body, causing him to involuntarily fall to one knee. At the same time, his Life Points plummeted.

[Zigfried von Schroeder: 4000→1600 Life Points]

A sudden 2400 points of Effect Damage was inflicted, causing Zigfried von Schroeder, who was accustomed to a life of luxury and only dishing out pain, to nearly bite his tongue in agony. Cold sweat dripped down his forehead as he looked up at Yugi on the opposite Field. "Y-you hateful wretch, how dare you hurt me?"

"Not even my father has ever hit me!"

Zigfried von Schroeder still hadn't given up on retaliating against Yugi, because in his view, the Duel wasn't over. `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`'s Attack, even after being reduced by `(Forbidden Dress)`'s Effect, was still 2400 points. Attacking his `(Valkyrie's First)` with 1600 Attack points would only cause him 800 points of Damage.

Yugi had no other resources left, and Zigfried von Schroeder still had another Turn. As long as he could find a way to eliminate Yugi's remaining 400 Life Points, victory would still belong to him. Zigfried von Schroeder would still be the winner of the Duel!

"Enter my Battle Phase." Zigfried von Schroeder looked at Yugi, raised his arm, and waved it. "`Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`, Attack `(Valkyrie's First)`!"

"Slash of Hope's Dawn!"

Without any unnecessary movements, `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier` slowly returned its drawn sword to its sheath, then stepped forward, drew, and slashed. A single strike that could cleave even Time and Space and chaos. `(Valkyrie's First)` gave Yugi a smile before being Destroyed by `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier` and Sent to the Graveyard.

"Ugh!!"

The blade's glow from the slash brought a sharp stinging sensation to Zigfried von Schroeder. When the Battle Damage hit him, who hadn't recovered from the previous Effect Damage, Zigfried von Schroeder's knees buckled, and he nearly fell to his knees again after just managing to stand straight.

Watching `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`, who had finished its Attack but was still walking towards him, Zigfried von Schroeder was completely unaware of the danger. Instead, he glared fiercely at Yugi behind it: "What an utter disgrace, to make me lose face like this, you are unforgivable!"

"When it's my Turn, I will definitely make you—"

`Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier` reached out and grabbed Zigfried von Schroeder's collar. The fierce gaze from beneath its helmet prevented Zigfried von Schroeder from uttering the rest of his words.

"Wh-what's going on?"

"You don't have another Turn, Zigfried von Schroeder." The speaker was Yugi, his arms crossed over his chest. For some reason, Zigfried von Schroeder felt that Yugi seemed like a different person at this moment, with a completely different demeanor.

Incited by Dark Yugi, Yugi imitated his way of speaking and tone, trying to maintain a cold smirk. "The result of the Duel was decided the moment `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier` completed its Attack."

In Zigfried von Schroeder's disbelieving eyes, a new Phantom appeared beside `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier`. It was `(Valkyrie's First)`, who had just been Sent to the Graveyard. Because `(Double Cyclone)`'s Effect was Negated, `(Chaos Field)`'s Effect was still active.

However, the state of `(Valkyrie's First)` appearing now was different from her three sisters. The other three were simply pure spirit forms, appearing without weapons, but `(Valkyrie's First)` still held the sharp sword she had used before.

"The Effect of `Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier` is that when it Destroys an opponent's Monster by Battle and Sends it to the Graveyard, it inflicts Damage to the opponent Duelist equal to that Monster's Original ATK."

As Yugi explained, `(Valkyrie's First)`, who had accumulated much emotion due to Zigfried von Schroeder treating them as mere tools, recklessly commanding, utilizing, and sacrificing them, raised her longsword and fiercely brought it down!

Yugi recalled Zigfried von Schroeder's earlier words and delivered his concluding statement: "Let your own Monsters deliver your final defeat, Zigfried von Schroeder."

"This move is called, Chaos Return."

[Zigfried von Schroeder: 1600 Life Points→0]

As Zigfried von Schroeder's Life Points were completely depleted, the Judge promptly announced, "Duelist Zigfried von Schroeder's Life Points have reached 0. Defeat confirmed. The winner of this Duel is, Yugi!"

(end of chapter)

Chapter 415: Still Buying Pricier Tickets? How Pathetic!

After the Duel ended, Zigfried von Schroeder, as an Eliminated Duelist, wore a look of intense unwillingness. But just as Zigfried was about to utter some harsh words to Yugi, his peripheral vision caught something below the Duel Arena. His expression changed, and he hastily left the Duel Field.

Yugi was somewhat puzzled, as he still hadn't understood why Zigfried von Schroeder suddenly became filled with hatred for him ever since he had merely said, "Everything is going according to plan."

Wasn't it supposed to be an interesting Duel?

"Congratulations, Aibo," Yami Yugi said from within the Millennium Puzzle, observing the entire Duel with a gratified smile. "A glorious victory, truly an interesting Duel."

"Oh, it's nothing, I'm not that amazing," Yugi said, scratching the back of his head sheepishly, looking at the surrounding audience.

While engrossed in the Duel earlier, Yugi hadn't felt anything amiss due to Zigfried von Schroeder distracting him. Now, recalling how many people had been staring at him from the very beginning, he still felt a bit ashamed!

It was different from Duelist Kingdom and Battle City. While the former had many spectators, their number was only a little over a hundred people. The latter had even more spectators, but Yugi could accept it as it was broadcast via cameras. Now, at the KC Cup, Kaiba Dome was packed with ten thousand people. The visual impact was completely incomparable to any of the previous Matches Yugi had participated in.

Yami Yugi chuckled softly: "Don't be so shy, Aibo. You are the victor; now you should stand tall and openly embrace this glory."

As the Pharaoh, Yami Yugi did not find Yugi's recent behavior shameful at all. To display a king's glory under the admiration of countless people was an ordinary matter. Even without recovering his memories, Yami Yugi unconsciously believed this to be true.

Perhaps Yami Yugi's words were very convincing, or perhaps Yugi also felt that he should change his introverted personality somewhat. He mustered his courage, flashed a confident smile, and looked towards the Audience Seating.

Because he and Chumley had defeated Pegasus during Duelist Kingdom, and then he had fought as one of the three Duelists using God Cards in Battle City, achieving a Top 4 ranking, Yugi's personal character, while low-key and unassuming, actually made him quite popular in the Duel Monsters community.

Those willing to buy tickets for the KC Cup, enduring Kaiba's bizarre lottery rules, undoubtedly included some wealthy and idle passersby, but the majority were certainly people who loved Duel Monsters.

Watching Yugi, who had just delivered a spectacular Duel, survey the Venue with a confident smile, the audience naturally offered thunderous applause—

"Yugi!"

"Yugi-sama!"

"You easily did what we couldn't! We admire you so much!"

"I love you!"

Although some strange things got mixed into the audience's shouts, Yugi truly felt their enthusiasm.

And having finally gathered the courage to change and face so many spectators, Yugi also realized that change wasn't as difficult as he had imagined.

However, Yugi's relaxed mood didn't last long, as an arrogant voice echoed behind him:

"Hmph, still basking in the feeling of victory, Yugi?"

Ascending the Stairs step by step, the speaker's trench coat floated anti-gravity despite the windless indoors. "Or rather, are you, who couldn't fully enjoy that last Duel, challenging me to another?"

"If so, at least show me your serious side, not that child's play Duel where you didn't even Summon Dark Magician!"

Yugi turned around, his face full of surprise: "Kaiba?"

Even though his Opponent hadn't even emerged from the ready room yet, Kaiba, who had long since placed his Deck into his Duel Disk and deployed it, stood with his arms crossed over his chest, arrogantly tilting his head slightly: "Just so you know, I didn't make any adjustments to the Duel order. It just so happens that I am the one Dueling after you."

If Kaiba's gaze hadn't shifted from Yugi to the side while he spoke, his words might have been more convincing.

Thinking that his Duel had ended and the next Match was about to begin, Yugi offered an apologetic smile to Kaiba and chose to leave the Duel Arena.

On the surface, Duel Monsters might seem like Duelists just standing there Drawing and playing cards, occasionally pressing a button on their Duel Disk to Activate a Set Card, which doesn't seem to consume much stamina. However, KaibaCorp's overly realistic Solid Vision system does put some burden on the body, especially since Yugi's Life Points were down to a mere 400 in his last Duel.

Not everyone can live day in and day out, ignoring food and tea, solely Dueling, like President Kaiba, who suffers from severe Duel Addiction.

Watching Yugi leave the Duel Field, Kaiba snorted, seemingly displeased that Yugi hadn't accepted his Duel invitation.

But even if Yugi had agreed, it wouldn't have been allowed. Although Kaiba had been taking advantage of his Administrator Permissions to make many small changes these past two days, he was still quite disciplined when it came to the overt Rulebook. Yugi and Kaiba, being in different groups, wouldn't be able to face each other until at least the Semi-finals.

Kaiba wasn't worried that Yugi would be eliminated before the Semi-finals; if that were the case, he wouldn't have considered Yugi one of his Targets.

If he truly wanted to become the strongest Duelist, the first thing he had to do was defeat Yugi, then defeat Chumley. Before Dueling Chumley again, Yugi was the last obstacle on Kaiba's path. None of the other Duelists were even worth a glance in Kaiba's eyes, not even the "Raphael" he met yesterday, as fleeing before a Duel ended was clearly an act of cowardice.

As for Joey? Kaiba had never considered him an Opponent, because Joey had never won against Kaiba, not even once.

His gaze shifted to the surrounding audience. Looking at the packed Kaiba Dome, Kaiba felt somewhat pleased by the number of spectators as he waited for his Opponent to arrive.

Although yesterday was the first day of the KC Cup's opening, today garnered more audience interest. This was mainly because the two Duelists widely regarded as the second and third strongest—Kaiba and Yugi—were both scheduled to appear today. Therefore, tickets for Kaiba Dome today sold incredibly well, even after Kaiba raised the price by another dollar.

Although Yugi placed Top 4 in Battle City and Kaiba was the runner-up, in the eyes of the audience, Yugi's strength was superior to Kaiba's. This was mainly because the two hadn't faced each other in Battle City, and their only previous record was Kaiba losing to Yugi.

"Ah, pardon me, pardon me, you've waited a long time, President Kaiba." A rather unconventional voice echoed, bringing Kaiba's thoughts back. A cloaked figure walked onto the Duel Arena, its hood covering most of its face, concealing its true identity.

Seeing this, Kaiba slightly furrowed his brows.

Although the KC Cup was a legitimate tournament, properly registered, well-prepared, and with comprehensive applications, Kaiba's desire to maximize flexibility in registration led to a highly irregular registration mechanism. One could enter by simply providing a Duel Disk, a normal Deck, and a name.

This was how Raphael, Rex, Alister, Zigfried von Schroeder, and "Dan Kuroto" managed to infiltrate the tournament.

While a preliminary round phase helped Kaiba weed out a significant number of opportunistic individuals, it was clear that the aforementioned few proved that with enough skill, one could still pass the preliminaries and enter the main Match.

And the cloaked figure currently standing before Kaiba was one such individual. While the KC Cup was a legitimate tournament, the only requirement for Duelists was not to cheat; there were no restrictions on attire. Kaiba couldn't demand that the person reveal their face just because he found them suspicious.

If there were indeed requirements for appearance, many people would immediately be eliminated, especially Yugi, whose hairstyle was the flashiest, most colorful, and who was the best at Dueling, yet that hairstyle was natural for him.

"Are you Bakura?" Recalling and calling out the Opponent's name, Kaiba, with a cold expression, raised his already prepared Duel Disk. "Since you are ready, I don't mind starting this Duel a little early. Anyway, whether sooner or later, the Duel will end in an instant."

Kaiba, who used an Aggro Deck and was especially skilled at "High-Level Hand" openers, certainly had the right to speak so arrogantly.

"Hoh-hoh, still as impatient as ever, Seto Kaiba," the Duelist named "Bakura" revealed his Duel Disk from under his cloak. He took his Deck from his other hip and, like loading bullets into a gun, pushed the Deck into the Duel Disk to Activate and set up. "My advice is, don't speak too soon, and don't speak too full of yourself."

"If you ask why, I've actually been proven wrong on that point quite a few times myself, and I know how awkward it can be."

Both Bakura and Kaiba were ready. Although the schedule hadn't reached the start time for the next Duel, the Judge had long grown accustomed to their President's unpredictable nature. After announcing over the broadcast that Kaiba's Duel was about to begin, their Duel commenced at lightning speed.

"Duel!" x2

[Kaiba: 4000 LP]

[Bakura: 4000 LP]

"I'll take the First Turn, no problem with that, Seto Kaiba?" Though seemingly a question, Bakura showed no politeness. After Drawing five cards into his Hand simultaneously with Kaiba, he directly Drew another Card.

Bakura's English sounded quite non-standard to Kaiba, even with a hint of an Indian accent, and a bit like one from Egypt, especially with the inexplicably heavy emphasis on "Seto," making it feel very unfamiliar.

"Hmph, whatever. Your feeble resistance is meaningless anyway." Kaiba snorted, his face stern as he watched Bakura.

The name Bakura was likely a pseudonym, a fact Kaiba had discovered yesterday when he checked on Raphael, Zigfried von Schroeder, and the others. Kaiba had then conveniently arranged for Bakura to be in the same Duel group as himself. For such a rat who used a pseudonym to hide his identity, Kaiba naturally wouldn't show any pleasant expression.

Of course, even for an old acquaintance like Joey, Kaiba wouldn't have a pleasant expression.

Bakura taking the First Turn was irrelevant, because for Kaiba, the Second Turn was more practical than the First Turn. While it meant having to deal with the traps the First Turn player set, he wouldn't need to worry about Defense and could simply go all out on offense.

Especially with the "perfect hand" he had just Drawn. Kaiba sneered inwardly, looking at his Level 2-4 monsters, his expression outwardly remaining stern.

"Then, it's My Turn," Bakura said, looking at the cards in his Hand and revealed two cards from it. "I Normal Summon Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands in Defense Position, then Activate its Effect when Summoned, adding one Ritual Spell Card or Ritual Monster from my Deck to my Hand."

[Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands [Level 4/LIGHT Attribute]]

[Fairy-Type/Effect]

[1400 ATK/1000 DEF]

Although classified as Fairy-Type, the appearance of Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands was clearly very different from the common perception of "angels." Its bronze body was covered in arm after arm. Compared to the "Thousand Hands" image of Senju of the Thousand Hands, the Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands on Bakura's Field felt more menacing than majestic.

"The Ritual Monster I choose to add to my Hand is Demise, King of Armageddon."

"A Ritual Monster? Like the Black Luster Soldier - Super Soldier Yugi just used, as long as the Level requirement is met, you can Tribute monsters with almost no restrictions to Summon powerful Higher-Level monsters."

"But before my invincible Blue-Eyes, hmph hmph…"

Kaiba watched Bakura's actions, sneering coldly without saying a word.

After Searching for the Demise, King of Armageddon card from his Deck, Bakura temporarily added it to his Hand, then played another card: "I have already gathered the Ritual Monster and the Spell Card for the Ritual in my Hand. Now, it is time to Tribute."

"Activate the Spell Card End of the World! I Tribute monsters from my Hand and Field whose total Levels are Level 8 or higher, and Ritual Summon Demise, King of Armageddon, which I just added to my Hand, from my Hand!"

Bakura said, sending one card from his Hand and the Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands from his Field to the Graveyard: "The monsters I choose are Ritual Fiend - Presider, Level 4, from my Hand, and Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands, Level 4, from my Field, totaling Level 8!"

"Dark pole in the Cycle of creation and destruction, accept this offering and lend me your Power!"

"Ritual Summon! Demise, King of Armageddon!"

[Demise, King of Armageddon [Level 8/DARK Attribute]]

[Fiend-Type/Ritual/Effect]

[2400 ATK/2000 DEF]

(end of chapter)