Chapter 416: High-Star Openings are Standard
"Ritual Summon! (Demise, King of Armageddon)!"
As Bakura slammed a card onto his Duel Disk, the spiritual forms of (Djinn Presider of Rituals) and (Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands) appeared on his field, then shattered into eight dark points of light that spun into a circle.
Within this dark ring of light, a tall figure slowly rose. Its majestic body was covered in heavy, dark armor, and its horned skeleton helmet only revealed a pair of emotionless green eyes. (Demise, King of Armageddon) held a gigantic double-bladed axe, clearly not for chopping wood, but for harvesting life and severing enemies' heads.
[(Demise, King of Armageddon)][ATK2400]
Although its appearance was undeniably imposing, its entrance stylish, and even its mere presence was accompanied by blue, soul-like flames burning behind it as a backdrop, Kaiba still displayed a contemptuous expression.
"You spent four cards in total and one Normal Summon opportunity, depleting your hand to only three cards, just to Special Summon a monster with Attack Points only on par with a (Red-Eyes Black Dragon)?"
Joey in the Audience Seating: "Kaiba, you bastard!"
"Indeed, I'm not entirely satisfied with (Demise, King of Armageddon)'s 2400 ATK, but don't underestimate it because of that," Bakura said with a helpless shrug. "As the Demon King symbolizing destruction, (Demise, King of Armageddon) possesses a powerful effect that, by paying 2000 Life Points, destroys all other cards on the field."
Kaiba scoffed even more dismissively upon hearing this. "Hmph, that sounds like an effect that can't be activated during your opponent's turn. To knowingly choose to take the first turn when your monster excels at second turn offense—you're truly courting death."
(Demise, King of Armageddon)'s effect allows you to pay 2000 Life Points to activate a combined (Dark Hole) and (Heavy Storm) effect, destroying all cards on both fields except (Demise, King of Armageddon). In short, it flips the table, and as Kaiba said, it's quite suitable for aggressive play.
Yet, even so, Bakura still chose to take the first turn.
"I Set two cards, then my turn ends." Bakura Set two cards from his hand onto his back row, declared his turn end, and then said flippantly, "I'm ready, Seto Kaiba."
"Now you can begin your aggressive play performance."
[Bakura: 4000 LP, Hand 1]
[(Demise, King of Armageddon)][ATK2400]
[Set Card] X2
"Hmph, I hope you can maintain that attitude after witnessing my monster." Kaiba's finger rested on his Deck. "My turn, draw!"
"Then I activate the Spell Card (Polymerization), using three (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) monsters from my hand as Fusion Material. Witness the evolved, strongest Dragon-Type!"
"Tear through the darkness before me with the dawn's light, soar, my glory, my soul, (Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon)!"
As Kaiba shouted, three (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) monsters appeared one by one on his field, flying into the sky. In the air, the three white dragons linked together, Fusing into a gigantic dragon shadow!
The strongest Dragon-Type monster in Kaiba's Deck—(Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon)—appeared!
[(Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon)][ATK4500]
"Tremble, marvel, despair! This is the strongest Dragon-Type that can even surpass the Divine-Beast (Obelisk the Tormentor)!" As a former user of (Obelisk the Tormentor), Kaiba finally joined the ranks of those who belittled it, taking advantage of (Obelisk the Tormentor)'s fixed ATK/DEF to do so.
However, in a sense, (Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon) was indeed more practical than (Obelisk the Tormentor).
"(Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon) can attack 3 times during a Battle Phase if (Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon) is in my Deck!" Kaiba held two cards in his hand, speaking with cold arrogance. "Let alone your (Demise, King of Armageddon)'s ATK being only on par with that mediocre duelist's Ace Card; even if it were stronger, it would only be annihilated!"
Upon hearing Kaiba's threat, Bakura simply lowered his head and remained silent, then suddenly burst into laughter: "Hmph hmph, heheh, hahahaha!!"
"Impressive, Seto Kaiba! To Special Summon (Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon) on your very first turn, truly befitting 'Seto'—you are indeed favored by the (Blue-Eyes) monsters."
"But, the more you boast, the more I anticipate how interesting your expression will be when you lose your cherished (Blue-Eyes) monsters!"
Bakura smirked, pressing the activate Set Card button on his Duel Disk: "I activate the card I Set last turn, the Trap Card, [Fusion Failure]!"
As Bakura's Set card was activated, a flicker of dark lightning suddenly erupted from the body of the magnificent three-headed white dragon. About to unleash a roar, (Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon) instantly became paralyzed. As time passed, the dark lightning grew denser, and (Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon)'s angry roar transformed into a wail.
"(Blue-Eyes)!" Kaiba's eyes widened, looking at the suffering (Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon). His beloved monster's pain twisted Kaiba's mind, filling him with intense fury. He glared fiercely at Bakura. Although the opponent's face was mostly hidden by a hood, from Kaiba's angle, he could just make out a hint of a sneer at the corner of Bakura's mouth.
"Damn you!"
"[Fusion Failure] can only be activated when a Fusion Monster is Special Summoned. Its effect returns all Fusion Monsters on the field to the Deck. This effect does not target and is not a destruction effect, so fall into the predicament of losing your (Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon), Seto Kaiba!"
Bakura declared triumphantly, extending his finger like a pistol and aiming it at the suffering (Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon), mimicking the sound of a gunshot with his mouth: "Bang~"
"Boom!"
The lightning coiling around (Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon) violently detonated. Under Bakura's gaze, the majority of (Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon)'s body was swallowed by the explosion's smoke, while the three dragon heads and wide dragon wings that were visible outside the smoke dissipated into blue particles.
Seeing this, Bakura sighed helplessly: "It seems, as Duel King Hayato said. Seto Kaiba, you..."
The smoke quickly cleared. The first thing Bakura saw, looking down, was a green-bordered card revealed in Kaiba's back row. Simultaneously, from within the retreating smoke, three towering figures roared in unison, their giant wings beating, completely dispersing the smoke with the unleashed gales!
"Roar!!!"
[(Blue-Eyes White Dragon)][ATK3000]
[(Blue-Eyes White Dragon)][ATK3000]
[(Blue-Eyes White Dragon)][ATK3000]
"Quick-Play Spell Card, (De-Fusion)! Before your [Fusion Failure] could take effect, I activated this card in chain to return (Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon) to the Deck in advance, and Special Summon its Fusion Materials that were slumbering in my Graveyard—three (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) monsters."
Kaiba's voice remained as calm as ever, showing no outward emotion, but those familiar with him could detect the volcanic rage hidden beneath his placid expression.
"You resort to petty tricks. Do you think that can stop my offensive? You, a fourth-rate duelist using a third-rate Deck." Kaiba's lips curved slightly, laughing in anger. "Firstly, congratulations. You've successfully provoked me and made me serious."
"As a retort for daring to touch my (Blue-Eyes) monsters, I shall now grant you a complete defeat!"
As Kaiba spoke, he forcefully swung his hand forward: "Enter my Battle Phase! (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)s, crush that obstructing (Demise, King of Armageddon)!"
"(Burst Stream of Destruction)!!"
Massive amounts of air were swallowed into a (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)'s abdomen as it inhaled; the swirling air currents even formed a tornado. Simultaneously, a spherical energy orb gathered in its mouth.
Then, a pure white torrent of light instantly erupted, an endless deluge of white light engulfing (Demise, King of Armageddon) in Attack Position on Bakura's field.
A (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) with 3000 ATK attacked (Demise, King of Armageddon) with 2400 ATK. The outcome of this battle should undoubtedly belong to Kaiba, who controlled the (Blue-Eyes White Dragon). However, even though it was engulfed by the (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)'s attack, Kaiba noticed that Bakura's Life Points remained unchanged.
Wrong!
Kaiba's gaze sharpened, realizing that Bakura's other Set card in the back row had been flipped open at some unknown point. Was it activated during the moment a (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) launched its attack?
As if seeing through Kaiba's mind, Bakura suddenly spoke: "That's right, Seto Kaiba. Just now, in the instant a (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) gathered energy to prepare its attack, I activated this card while your gaze was drawn by a (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)'s dazzling attack."
"Quick-Play Spell Card, (Rush Recklessly)!"
As Bakura's words fell, an arm abruptly extended from within the (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)'s breath of light—it was none other than (Demise, King of Armageddon), which should have been destroyed by the (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)'s recent attack!
Bathing in the powerful torrent of light, (Demise, King of Armageddon) charged in the opposite direction against the (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)'s attack, as if taking a refreshing bath in a river. Kaiba was astonished to discover that the (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)'s attack had actually failed to touch (Demise, King of Armageddon); it had already been negated at an extremely close distance to its armor!
"The effect of (Rush Recklessly) is that I can target one monster on my field, then declare an Attribute to activate it," Bakura explained triumphantly, pointing to the Quick-Play Spell Card (Rush Recklessly) in his back row. "When the target monster battles a monster of the declared Attribute, no Damage Calculation is performed; the battling monster is immediately destroyed."
"This effect works whether I initiate the attack or (Demise, King of Armageddon) is attacked."
Bakura pointed at the (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) and continued, "The Attribute I declared, of course, is the LIGHT Attribute of your (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)!"
Under Kaiba's grim gaze, (Demise, King of Armageddon), literally "rushing recklessly," reached the (Blue-Eyes White Dragon). It first raised its leg and violently struck the (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)'s chin, forcing it to close its mouth and stop its attack. Then, taking advantage of the (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)'s pain, it decisively swung its double-bladed axe!
Without even a chance to wail, the (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) was decapitated by the ferocious Demon King and destroyed, sent to the Graveyard. (Demise, King of Armageddon), having just destroyed the (Blue-Eyes White Dragon), did not rush to leave. Instead, it hoisted its axe onto its shoulder and looked at Kaiba's two other (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)s with a challenging gaze.
After (Rush Recklessly)'s effect is activated, it remains active until the End Phase. This meant that if Kaiba continued to use a (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) to attack, it would simply be a repeat of the previous scene, still inevitably leading to the outcome of a (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) being destroyed by (Demise, King of Armageddon).
Carrying the fearsome double-bladed axe, (Demise, King of Armageddon) became even more terrifying and menacing after being stained with the (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)'s blood, frightening enough to make children cry. Combined with its domineering stance now traversing Kaiba's field, it was truly the Final Boss Demon King in an RPG game.
Kaiba's temper was unyielding; if he was suppressed, he would definitely suppress back. However, at the same time, he knew he couldn't pointlessly sacrifice his remaining two (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) monsters for a moment's gratification.
Frustrated and angry, Kaiba reluctantly declared: "Then, I activate the Spell Card (Foolish Burial), sending one monster from my Deck to the Graveyard. With that, my turn ends."
[Kaiba: 4000 LP, Hand 0]
[(Blue-Eyes White Dragon)][ATK3000]
[(Blue-Eyes White Dragon)][ATK3000]
Kaiba knew that Bakura would surely not miss this excellent opportunity next turn and would definitely use (Demise, King of Armageddon) for an aggressive play. And to maximize (Demise, King of Armageddon)'s power, Bakura would undoubtedly choose to activate its effect.
At that time, all cards on the entire field, except Bakura's own (Demise, King of Armageddon), would be destroyed and sent to the Graveyard, followed by (Demise, King of Armageddon)'s direct attack.
However, for this very reason, Kaiba also prepared a card for a counterattack—the monster he just sent to the Graveyard using (Foolish Burial).
"Hehehe, just moments ago you were boasting about granting me a complete defeat, but is this all Seto Kaiba is capable of?" Bakura sneered, placing his finger on his Deck and drawing a card. "My turn, draw!"
Holding two cards in his hand, Bakura triumphantly declared: "Now, I will pay 2000 Life Points and activate (Demise, King of Armageddon)'s effect!"
It's coming! Kaiba's expression also grew serious upon hearing this.
Dark magical energy gathered on (Demise, King of Armageddon)'s axe.
(end of chapter)
Chapter 417: I'm Willing to Give Up My Old Friend (Strikethrough) Wife
"I Pay 2000 of my Life Points to Activate the Effect of (Demise, King of Armageddon)!"
[Bakura: 4000→2000 LP]
Paying half of his Life Points as the Cost to Activate (Demise, King of Armageddon)'s Effect in one grand sweep, Bakura showed no remorse, and instead said confidently: "Compared to the Power of (Blue-Eyes), it's clear that my power is closer to what you call 'absolute power', Seto Kaiba!"
"The Effect of (Demise, King of Armageddon) Activates, Destroying all other Cards on the Field!"
The black Demon King raised the double-bladed axe in its hands, a visible mass of Dark Magic Power gathered on one of the axe blades. (Demise, King of Armageddon)'s green eyes flashed crimson, then it fiercely slammed its giant axe into the ground!
"You!"
"I command you to!!"
"Kneel!!!"
Three consecutive heavy blows completely unleashed the Magical Energy on the axe blade, triggering a massive explosion from the Earth. The terrifying destructive power instantly Destroyed both of Kaiba's (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) on the Field and Sent them to the Graveyard!
Although the impact of the explosion didn't cause any substantial Effect Damage, Kaiba still couldn't help but be forced back half a step by the shockwave.
Bakura held onto his hood with his slender, fair hands, which resembled a woman's, to prevent it from being blown open by the airflow. Without waiting for the dust cloud covering Kaiba's Field to dissipate, he laughed smugly: "Hmph hmph, now your Field is completely empty, Seto Kaiba. Next will be a Direct Attack from (Demise, King of Armageddon)."
"Hmph, not necessarily." Kaiba said coldly, looking at (Demise, King of Armageddon) as it raised its axe blade once more, "Before you make such grand boasts, take a good look at the situation on the Field, you fool."
"Hm?"
"What is that Monster?"
Bakura looked suspiciously at Kaiba's Field. Amidst the dust, a bearded Warrior, clad in light purple Dragon-scale armor, sat cross-legged on the ground with his eyes closed, unfazed by the Aura of (Demise, King of Armageddon) bearing down on him.
"That's (Keeper of the Shrine), the Card I Sent to the Graveyard with (Foolish Burial) during my Main Phase 2 last Turn." Kaiba explained with a cold expression. "When (Keeper of the Shrine) is in the Graveyard, and a Face-up Dragon-Type Monster other than itself is Sent to the Graveyard by an Effect or Destroyed by Battle and Sent to the Graveyard, it can be Special Summoned from the Graveyard to the Field."
[ (Keeper of the Shrine) ] [Level 4/DARK]
[Dragon/Effect Monster]
[ATK 0/DEF 2100]
"Don't think that the Effect of your Monster, (Demise, King of Armageddon), can Destroy everything. My glorious path to the future won't be cut short by a Monster like that."
As Kaiba spoke, he Recycled a Card from his Graveyard: "Since it was my (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) that was Destroyed by an Effect and Sent to the Graveyard, and the Monster Sent to the Graveyard that Triggered (Keeper of the Shrine)'s Effect was a Normal Monster, I can Add one Dragon-Type Normal Monster from my Graveyard to my Hand."
"So you Recycled (Blue-Eyes) from your Graveyard? Hmph hmph, but what good is it to Recycle (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) if you have no Tributes?" Bakura sneered, Drawing a Card. "And if you think just one Monster can stop me, you're gravely mistaken, Seto Kaiba."
"I Activate the Spell Card, (Preparation of Rites). This Card's Effect is to Add one Ritual Monster with a Level of 7 or less from my Deck to my Hand, then I can Recycle one Ritual Spell Card from my Graveyard." Bakura said, revealing a Monster from his Deck: "The Ritual Monster I Search is (Cú Chulainn the Awakened), Level 4, and I Recycle (End of the World) from my Graveyard."
Kaiba frowned slightly. Although he didn't often use Ritual Monsters, he remembered clearly that the Ritual Spell Card needed to Ritual Summon (Cú Chulainn the Awakened) was (Incantation of Awakening). And Bakura himself had just said that (End of the World) was the Card used to Summon (Demise, King of Armageddon).
Once again, as if reading Kaiba's mind, Bakura suddenly spoke: "Are you wondering why I would Recycle this seemingly useless Ritual Spell Card, (End of the World)?"
"The answer, of course, is that I have another (Demise, King of Armageddon) in my Hand." Laughing smugly, Bakura revealed all three Cards in his Hand. Indeed, another (Demise, King of Armageddon) was in his Hand. "Now I'll begin my second Ritual Summon."
"Because of (End of the World)'s Effect, if I want to Ritual Summon (Demise, King of Armageddon), the Tributed Monsters' Levels must total exactly Level 8."
Bakura's clarification only deepened Kaiba's confusion.
The only Tribute available for Ritual Summon in Bakura's Hand was (Cú Chulainn the Awakened), which he had just Added to Hand. Its Level was only 4, which didn't meet the Level requirement for (End of the World). Aside from that, Bakura did have a Monster on his Field that could be used for a Ritual Summon, but that was the (Demise, King of Armageddon) Bakura had Summoned last Turn.
Was this guy really going to Tribute his own (Demise, King of Armageddon) to Ritual Summon another (Demise, King of Armageddon)? Tribute himself to himself?
What kind of (Odin, Father of the Aesir) is that?
As Bakura inserted the Card into the Spell & Trap Zone, (End of the World) Activated, and as if the sky and earth were collapsing, the ground suddenly cracked open, revealing an Altar that had appeared before. From Bakura's Hand and Graveyard, two rays of light shot out, each manifesting as four shining Level Stars that converged into the Altar.
Hm? From the Graveyard?!
Kaiba watched in surprise as the Phantom Image of (Ritual Fiend - Presider), which had appeared once before, materialized on Bakura's Field.
"(Ritual Fiend - Presider)'s Effect is that if it exists in the Graveyard and I Activate a Ritual Summon, I can Banish (Ritual Fiend - Presider) from the Graveyard as a Monster Release requirement to fulfill the Levels needed for the Ritual Summon." As Bakura spoke, he Sent a Card from his Hand to the Graveyard, and at the same time, took (Ritual Fiend - Presider) from his Graveyard and placed it within his cloak.
The Card in his Hand was slammed onto the Duel Disk: "Two Level 4 Monsters, the Tributes are sufficient, now come forth and serve me! (Demise, King of Armageddon)!"
Just like last Turn, Bakura's second (Demise, King of Armageddon) appeared on his Field. Two identical black Demon Kings stood side-by-side, giant axes in hand, an awe-inspiring sight.
"Now entering my Battle Phase! I'll use my first (Demise, King of Armageddon) to Attack (Keeper of the Shrine)!" A hint of madness laced Bakura's voice. "Clear the last roadblock for me, Demise Decapitation!"
The colossal axe blade fell. Even though (Keeper of the Shrine) wore sturdy Dragon-scale armor, it ultimately couldn't withstand the Attack. It was instantly Destroyed and Sent to the Graveyard without even a moment's struggle. However, fortunately, (Keeper of the Shrine) was Special Summoned in Defense Position, so Kaiba did not take any Battle Damage from this.
After Destroying (Keeper of the Shrine), (Demise, King of Armageddon) didn't rush to leave. Instead, it used the other, unbloodied half of its axe blade to fix the giant axe into the ground, freeing its hands to clasp them above its head. Behind it, blazing Soul Fire gathered in its hands, transforming into a Card.
"(Ritual Fiend - Presider) is essentially a Monster created specifically for Ritual Summons. Not only can it substitute for a Tribute during a Ritual Summon, but a Monster Ritual Summoned using it gains the ability to Draw one Card from the Deck after Destroying a Monster by Battle."
Bakura explained, Drawing a Card: "I Drew this Card, how lucky. But I'll have to wait until Main Phase 2 to Set it."
"However, now that (Keeper of the Shrine) has been Destroyed, your Field has no Barrier whatsoever, Seto Kaiba." Bakura sneered, waving his hand to command again: "Second (Demise, King of Armageddon), let the Opponent feel some pain. Second Demise Decapitation!"
The tall Fiend raised the giant axe in its hand above its head. Under KaibaCorp's Virtual Projection System simulation, the oppressive feeling was as if real. And Kaiba truly had no means of defense at this moment. Yet, even in this situation, Kaiba maintained a cold expression, saying without panic:
"Hmph, that's all you've got."
[Kaiba: 4000→1600 LP]
Even after suffering 2400 points of Direct Attack Damage, Kaiba remained composed, as if nothing had happened. This somewhat annoyed Bakura, who had been expecting Kaiba to show a pained expression.
As if in return for Bakura's previous "Mind Scan" attempts, Kaiba retorted: "Although I can't see your face, I'll bet you're wondering why I'm not showing a struggling expression, aren't you?"
"Hmph, fool, is this meager Attack all you've got? Do you actually think you've threatened me?" Kaiba's lips curved into a cold sneer. "There's a limit to arrogance. In my eyes, your strength isn't even comparable to a beginner, and your so-called offense and threats are nothing more than child's play."
"I originally Dueled you thinking you might be hiding your true strength. If this is all you have, then I've decided: this Duel can end right now."
"Next Turn, I will grant you utter defeat!"
Hearing Kaiba's Declaration, Bakura couldn't comprehend where Kaiba's confidence came from. After glancing at his Hand, he directly inserted a Card into his Spell & Trap Zone, and said with a chilling tone: "Such familiar, irritating arrogance, Seto Kaiba."
"Try it if you can, by all means. After all, you only ever use the same old tricks with (Blue-Eyes White Dragon). I Set one Card, End Turn."
[Bakura: 2000 LP, Hand: 0]
(Demise, King of Armageddon) [ATK 2400]
(Demise, King of Armageddon) [ATK 2400]
[Set Card]
Bakura dismissed Kaiba's Declaration, because after putting himself in Kaiba's shoes, he realized Kaiba would only ever rely on the Special Summon of (Blue-Eyes White Dragon), the variations between (Blue-Eyes White Dragon), (Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon), and (Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon), and at most, the (Blue-Eyes Twin Burst Dragon) he once used in the Battle City Finals.
Ignoring whether Kaiba could even Summon these Monsters, in Bakura's view, neither (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) nor (Blue-Eyes Twin Burst Dragon) appearing on the Field could defeat him in One Turn. After all, he had two (Demise, King of Armageddon) on his Field acting as a Barrier.
Only (Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon) and (Neo Blue-Eyes Ultimate Dragon), both with 4500 ATK, were the only existences that could threaten Bakura. Because if they were to Attack (Demise, King of Armageddon) in Attack Position, an Attack of 4500 ATK against 2400 ATK would precisely inflict 2100 points of Damage, exceeding Bakura's Life Points.
However, even then, it wouldn't matter. Bakura thought, glancing at the Set Card in his Backrow.
He had Set an invincible Trap Card. With that Card protecting him, victory was undoubtedly already in his grasp!
Unaware of Bakura's thoughts at the moment, Kaiba took a deep breath. He placed his fingers on his Deck and sharply Drew a Card, declaring with full vigor: "My Turn, Draw!"
The Card he held between his fingers flipped over, revealing a green border. The Card Kaiba had Drawn was the Normal Spell Card, (Trade-In).
Kaiba, who believed he would one day become the First Place Duelist in the World, was naturally aware of the "Card advantage" concept proposed by Chumley. Although he said nothing about it outwardly, he had secretly learned from Yugi and Chumley, adding many Card Draw Cards to his Deck. For example, (Pot of Greed) and (Graceful Charity). The tragically limited (Card of Safe Return) was also present, and (Card of Demise) was certainly indispensable.
At the same time, due to the characteristics of the Ace Monsters in Kaiba's Deck, he also included a copy of (Trade-In).
This Card's Effect allows him to Discard a Level 8 Monster from his Hand and then Draw two Cards. Compared to the simple and straightforward (Pot of Greed), it comes with a Cost, but it can also be used in conjunction with (Monster Reborn) to revive the Discarded Monster.
However, the problem Kaiba now faced was that he indeed had a Level 8 Monster in his Hand, but that Monster was precisely his Ace Monster, (Blue-Eyes White Dragon).
Was he really going to Discard (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)?
This question lingered in Kaiba's mind for only a second, before he himself provided an answer: "For a question like this, there's only one answer—"
"For victory, I am willing to give up (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)!" Ruthlessly Sending (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) to the Graveyard, Kaiba Activated (Trade-In). "I Discard the Level 8 (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) from my Hand! I Activate the Spell Card (Trade-In), Drawing two Cards from my Deck!"
Watching (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) being Sent to the Graveyard, Kaiba placed his fingers on his Deck, ready to Draw. He murmured: "Don't resent me, (Blue-Eyes). This is a necessary sacrifice. Your sacrifice will not be in vain. Now, my Deck, respond to me and create the future!"
"Draw!"
Thanks to the bond bonus from this limited-time main quest in FGO, my great hero is finally only 30,000 away from Bond 15 after clearing "More is Better". I grinded through the night to max out their bond, and with thirty stones, I fished out Jiang Ziya. It's so nice.
(end of chapter)
"Draw!"
Using the effect of Trade-In, Kaiba forcefully drew two cards from his Deck. Though he hadn't yet flipped the card backs to reveal their card art, Kaiba felt a familiar sensation from the cards he drew, faintly hearing a dragon's roar.
The corners of his mouth curved upwards into a rare smile as he confidently said, "Hmph, I drew this card, didn't I?"
"Though it's a secret trump card I reserved for Yugi and Hayato, there's no harm in revealing it here," Kaiba said, pulling one of the cards out. "Let me show you the abyss-like pitch-black hidden behind the ultimate Blue-Eyes White Dragon of Light."
"Activate the Ritual Spell Card, Chaos Form! Against a guy like you, a Ritual Monster is perfectly suited!"
As Kaiba activated the Ritual Spell Card, five futuristic pillars rose on his Field, pointing straight into the sky. The pentagonal space enclosed by these five pillars was transformed by an unseen force into a deep void.
"Ritual Spell Card!?" Bakura frowned in considerable surprise. Firstly, in his memory, Kaiba had never used even a single Ritual Monster. Secondly, Kaiba activated this Ritual Spell Card when he only had one card in his hand.
The three elements of a Ritual are the Ritual Monster, the Ritual Spell Card that can Summon that Ritual Monster, and the Tribute Monsters used for the Ritual. But Kaiba currently only had one card in his hand; neither a Tribute nor a Ritual Monster could complete the Ritual.
Unless Kaiba's Graveyard contained a card similar to Ritual Raven? One that could Banish itself from the Graveyard to act as a Tribute for a Ritual Monster?
A white figure appeared on Kaiba's Field under Bakura's surprised gaze. The phantom of the noble Blue-Eyes White Dragon glared at Bakura, who was manipulating Demise, King of Armageddon. After a gentle cry towards Kaiba, it spread its wings and plunged into the pentagonal void.
"In this Ritual process, the Tribute I offer is Blue-Eyes White Dragon slumbering in my Graveyard," Kaiba said, frowning as he watched Blue-Eyes White Dragon vanish into the void.
For some reason, even though offering one's monsters was a perfectly normal thing, seeing Blue-Eyes White Dragon so fearlessly throw itself into the void to forge a victorious future for him ignited an inexplicable fury in Kaiba's heart. Annoyed, he decided to vent his frustration on this guy, Bakura, before him.
Bakura, on the other hand, couldn't understand why Kaiba could use Blue-Eyes White Dragon as a Tribute.
"I remember Blue-Eyes White Dragon is supposed to be a Normal Monster with no effects. Besides its high ATK and DEF, it shouldn't have any other special characteristics. How could Blue-Eyes, existing in the Graveyard, become a Tribute for a Ritual Summon?"
Kaiba sneered, "Hmph, don't compare me to someone of your caliber. As long as I look to the future with expectation and press forward, even a Blue-Eyes that has already been destroyed can become my impetus."
"Chaos Form is a Ritual Spell Card exclusively for Chaos Ritual Monsters. To Summon them to the Field, the combined Levels of the Tributes I need must equal their Level."
"However, as an alternative to Tributing monsters from my hand or Field, I can Banish Blue-Eyes White Dragon from my Graveyard to fulfill the Level requirement."
As he spoke, Kaiba finally raised the card in his hand above his head, acting as a beacon from the void to reality, guiding the hidden figure within the void to manifest:
"The Level of Blue-Eyes White Dragon, who offered its soul, is Level 8! Transform this power into kindling, ignite it, and guide forth the mighty power that leads to the future!"
"Ritual Summon, Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon!!"
With a resonant dragon's roar, the pentagonal void formed by the pillars above Kaiba's head shattered. Drawing new power from the void, Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon, whose body had also gained a futuristic feel, returned to Kaiba's Field!
However, it was more fitting to call her Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon now.
Its originally muscular and robust body transformed into a streamlined physique covered in metallic armor. Azure gems, each flickering with the Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon's breath, adorned its entire form. Its broad wings transmuted into ethereal light wings, seemingly containing enough power to alter the future.
Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon [Level 8/DARK Attribute]
[Dragon-Type/Ritual/Effect]
[3000/0]
After evolving into its new form, it wasn't just Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon's appearance that changed. As the cost for drawing new power from the void, Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon's Attribute changed to the DARK Attribute, completely opposite to Blue-Eyes White Dragon's original LIGHT Attribute. Its 2500 DEF, which was enough to single-handedly block a 2400 ATK, was also reduced to 0.
However, as a Ritual Monster form that completely abandoned DEF and concentrated all its power on ATK, Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon, upon its appearance, quickly responded to Kaiba's demands and fully displayed its power.
"The awe stops here. Now it's Blue-Eyes' counterattack. I enter my Battle Phase," Kaiba declared, having played all cards from his hand and already decided to end this Duel this Turn, pointing a hand towards the sky. "Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon, prepare to attack!"
Upon hearing Kaiba's command, the slender Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon did not open its mouth to charge power as Blue-Eyes White Dragon did. Instead, it gently flapped its dazzling gradient light wings, tracing a circle around Kaiba with its long, slender tail, protecting him.
As Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon soared, the azure gems on its body lit up one after another, transforming into a deep purple. The path traced by its tail seemed to tear through space, and the glimpse of the void that Bakura had seen when Chaos Form was activated reappeared, generating a terrifying gravitational pull!
In an instant, the burning soul flames behind Bakura's two Demise, King of Armageddon monsters on the Field were extinguished by the void storm. The Demise, King of Armageddon monsters, like Demon Kings, experienced "terror" for the first time under the gravitational pull from the void that threatened to rip out and crush their souls. Their bodies completely disobeyed them, curling up and lying prone on the ground, unable to move.
Even Bakura himself, feeling a terrifying power beyond his expectation, said in a panic, "What's going on? What kind of monster is this?!"
"Hmph, it's merely Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon, evolved from Blue-Eyes White Dragon. Remember that name well, for it is the monster that will soon bestow defeat upon you," Kaiba said coldly, arms crossed over his chest. "When Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon, Summoned by Tributing Blue-Eyes White Dragon for a Ritual, makes an Attack Declaration, an effect can activate."
"The Chaos Power wielded by Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon can change the Battle Position of all monsters on the opponent's Field. Monsters whose Battle Positions are changed by this power will be stripped of all their power; both their ATK and DEF will drop to 0."
"Furthermore, this Turn, if Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon attacks a monster in Defense Position, the opponent duelist takes damage equal to Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon's ATK that exceeds the Defense value of the monster in Defense Position!"
"What?!" Hearing this, Bakura looked in shock at his monsters on the Field, which had completely lost their ability to resist.
Demise, King of Armageddon [ATK2400→DEF0]
Demise, King of Armageddon [ATK2400→DEF0]
Demise, King of Armageddon, which had been acting as a barrier in front of him, had no power to resist against Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon's effect. Now, they were merely fish on a cutting board, ready to be slaughtered!
Especially since Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon also possessed Piercing capability. The two Demise, King of Armageddon monsters, now in Defense Position, were utterly useless against it. If he took this massive 3000 damage, Bakura, whose Life Points were already at 2000 due to previously activating Demise, King of Armageddon's effect, would suffer complete defeat!
Spreading its twin wings to their maximum extent, Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon departed from Kaiba's side and soared upwards. Its teal and blue gradient light wings grew longer and longer as it ascended into the sky. After reaching the highest point of Kaiba Dome, Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon changed its flight direction and dove towards Bakura!
"Damn it! I refuse to have this outcome again!" Bakura's mood was extremely agitated. Annoyed, he pressed the activate Set Card button on his Duel Disk. "At least let me win once!"
"Activate my Set Card, Trap Card Sakuretsu Armor!"
"Responding to Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon's Attack Declaration, this card can directly destroy the attacking monster!"
"Get back to the Graveyard, Blue-Eyes!"
Listening to Bakura's wild words, Kaiba, unusually, didn't get angry that his opponent was belittling Blue-Eyes. He merely gave a cold smirk. "Fool, my equation for victory is far more perfect than you can imagine."
Bakura's Set Card in the Back Row activated, and a laser burst forth from Sakuretsu Armor, rapidly striking Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon, which was diving and continuously accelerating, like a Gundam nail attacking Barbatos. The exaggerated relative speed between them meant that Sakuretsu Armor, shortly after its activation, instantly hit Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon's position. Explosive smoke enveloped Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon.
"Di-did I get it?" Bakura, not understanding the "smoke without injury rule," accidentally uttered a death flag.
The very next second after Bakura's words fell, a transparent phantom flew out from the smoke and quickly transformed from phantom into solid form. It was an unharmed Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon?!
What was even more surprising was that Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon, continuing its dive, was moving incredibly fast, yet the cloud of smoke behind it showed no change due to the airflow, as if Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon didn't exist in this world at all!
"Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon cannot be targeted by an opponent's card effects, nor can it be destroyed by an opponent's effects. Do you truly think a mere Sakuretsu Armor, a card I've barely seen successfully activated, can obstruct my path to victory?"
Kaiba watched as Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon finally reached the helpless Demise, King of Armageddon and unleashed an "A Billion Ton Impact" that seemed like a suicide attack. The shockwave from the attack made Kaiba's trench coat flutter in the wind, and at the same time, Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon, having once again entered a quantum state, instantly returned to Kaiba's front, reforming into its solid body.
Looking at Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon, Kaiba showed a gentle smile, one he almost never showed to humans. "Well done, Blue-Eyes."
"Roar~"
Hearing Kaiba's praise, Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon also seemed very happy, showing what was probably a smiling expression, narrowing its eyes, and then dissolving into a phantom image from Kaiba's sight.
The shockwave dissipated completely, revealing Bakura knocked to the ground by Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon's attack, which was indistinguishable from a Direct Attack, and his Life Points reset to zero.
[Bakura: 2000LP→0]
The Duel's outcome was quite clear.
"The victor is, Seto Kaiba!" The Judge promptly declared the winner of the Duel, raising his hand above his head to represent Kaiba. Simultaneously, the audience in the Audience Seating who worshipped Kaiba began to cheer, celebrating another victory for Kaiba.
"Lord Kaiba!"
"Lord Kaiba, scold me!"
"Lord Kaiba is the strongest!"
Several female audience members, who had just found the perfect angle and captured a photo of Kaiba's gentle smile at Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon, frantically saved copies of their pictures, clutching their bleeding noses, exclaiming, "This life of mine was worth it!"
Because Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon vanished from his presence due to the end of the Duel, Kaiba reverted to his usual expression, looking as if everyone owed him money. After glancing at Bakura, who had stood up from the ground, silently adjusted his hood, and left the Duel Arena, Kaiba, utterly uninterested in the loser, ignored the noisy shouts of the surrounding audience. His gaze quickly found Hayato and the others sitting together.
'Hmph, that mediocre duelist is only good at things relying on luck,' Kaiba thought, annoyed, knowing the reason why Hayato, Yugi, and the others always ended up sitting together despite the random seat allocation. His gaze directly fixed on Hayato, who was currently wrestling with Marik for a new bucket of popcorn.
Hayato's eyes met Kaiba's. Seizing the opportunity, Marik snatched back his popcorn and immediately stuffed a large handful into his mouth.
'Though it's a bit undignified to use an ace card against such a third-rate duelist, Hayato, have you witnessed the might of my new Blue-Eyes?'
'Before you duel me, ponder and strategize to your heart's content on how to defeat Blue-Eyes Chaos Dragon, Hayato!'
So Kaiba thought.
'Kaiba actually pulled off a one-hit KO. He's got some skills. Anyway, what snacks should I buy next?'
So Hayato thought.
(end of chapter)
Chapter 419: Your Name?
Watching Kaiba arrogantly leave the Duel Field, Hayato was just about to snag some more popcorn from Marik when his phone's ringtone sounded.
"Aiyaya~"
The ringtone, which gave off an Indian song and dance vibe, was interrupted by Hayato the moment it began. He pulled his phone from his pocket and answered: "Moshi Moshi?"
"Hayato, right?" From the other end of the line, a voice that sounded unenthusiastic yet was full of provocation spoke, "I'm sure I didn't dial wrong. After all, I'm calling you using the contact information you left with Industrial Illusions."
"There's no need to tell you the specific reason. So, Mr. Hayato, can you withdraw from Industrial Illusions?"
After listening to the person on the other end ramble on, Hayato thought for a moment and said, "Then what's your name? Even when talking on the phone, two strangers still need to exchange names."
As he spoke, Hayato stood up and walked towards the exit passage of the Venue.
The man on the other end of the phone was displeased with Hayato's attitude. After a cold snort, he said arrogantly, "Night. You only need to know my name is Night."
"So, are you willing to accept my proposal and withdraw from Industrial Illusions?" the man calling himself "Night" said impatiently. "Ultimately, the 30% shares you hold were never meant for someone like you. Handing them over will save me some trouble."
This is getting interesting, Hayato thought. This person named "Night," although Hayato didn't know how he managed to get his contact information from within Industrial Illusions, immediately wanted him to hand over the 30% shares of Industrial Illusions that Pegasus had lost to him.
"Alright, Mr. Night, your proposal is very interesting, but I refuse. Not only is your proposal of no benefit to me, but also because I, Hayato, love saying 'No' to self-important individuals."
Before Night on the other end could say anything, Hayato changed his tone and added, "However, even though you said there's no need to tell me your reasons, I'm still very interested in why you want me to hand over my Industrial Illusions shares."
"If you can tell me your reason, I might not be entirely unwilling to agree, you know."
Hayato said this, but he already intended to hang up. Because the self-proclaimed "Night," coupled with the person's apparent connection to Industrial Illusions, reminded him of someone: one of Pegasus's adopted sons who appeared in the Yu-Gi-Oh! Manga, Yako.
In the manga version of the world, Pegasus died when his Millennium Eye was taken. His adopted son, Yako, then used the Wicked Gods cards that Pegasus had once created to seek revenge on Yugi, the then-incumbent Duel King.
But the current situation is very different from the manga's world. Especially Pegasus, that unserious fellow, even though he lost his Millennium Eye, is still living perfectly fine. He even inadvertently intercepted and retained some of the Millennium Eye's power, becoming an acquired psychic power user.
Pegasus didn't die, so Yako shouldn't have a reason for revenge. Furthermore, Hayato wasn't certain that the person on the other end of the phone was Yako; he merely associated the self-proclaimed "Night" with him.
Rather than dwelling on such suspicions, Hayato preferred to directly confront the person named "Night."
The moment he left the public area, Hayato summoned the hidden Millennium Ring. The Millennium Ring, which had a similar effect to a certain Sparrow Captain's compass, merely by the self-proclaimed "Night," pointed Hayato to his location. Moreover, the sensation transmitted by the Millennium Ring indicated that the person wasn't too far from Hayato.
After Hayato finished speaking, he had already moved the phone away from his ear, intending to press the hang-up button. Yet, to his considerable surprise, "Night" on the other end didn't hesitate at all; he easily revealed his objective: "Because in my view, Industrial Illusions should be whole and indivisible. An outsider like you has no right to meddle with it."
"Outsider?" Upon hearing that keyword, Hayato's interest was piqued again. "As far as I know, three people currently hold shares in Industrial Illusions: myself, Pegasus, and Yugi."
"Hmph, Yugi. He's my next target. Although he's also hailed as one of the legendary Duelists, I don't believe he'll be all that troublesome," the person, presumably Yako, said arrogantly. "Once you're dealt with, he'll be next."
Hayato mused, "I see. First me, then Yugi. Is this how you plan to preserve Industrial Illusions' 'purity'? What about Pegasus then?"
"And you say outsiders can't meddle, so what standing do you have to say that, Mr. Night?"
"Or should I say, Yako?"
Night seemed taken aback that Hayato would call out that name, and he exclaimed excitedly, "How did you know?!"
"You, just what in the world are you—"
"Beep~"
Before Night could finish his question, Hayato hung up the phone. "That was dangerous. I almost let him ask that death question."
However, Night's reaction just now, upon hearing the name "Yako," confirmed Hayato's suspicion: Night was Yako. But with one guess answered, more questions arose: Why did Yako want Hayato to return his Industrial Illusions shares? For what reason and purpose was he doing this? What role was Pegasus playing in all of this?
As Hayato followed the direction indicated by the Millennium Ring, he made a call to Pegasus. Rather than racking his brain alone, a direct phone call could effectively solve problems—a lesson Hayato had learned from Kamen Rider.
Thank you, Min-ki.
Soon after, the call connected, and Pegasus's voice rang out: "Oh, it's strange. Is there something you want with me, Hayato-boy?"
There was a noisy din on the other end of the line, sounding similar to what Hayato heard in KaibaLand's game area. Pegasus was probably still playing there.
Even though the KC Cup was co-hosted by KaibaCorp and Industrial Illusions, Pegasus didn't even have the interest to attend and watch. What a whimsical fellow.
Hayato got straight to the point and asked, "Pegasus, when you came for the KC Cup this time, did your two adopted sons come with you? Do you know where Yako is right now?"
"Hayato-boy, you actually know that I have adopted sons? So surprising! Yes, Gekko-boy came with me for this KC Cup event." Pegasus paused as he spoke. "But Hayato-boy, who is Yako?"
"I only have one adopted son named Gekko, that's right."
(end of chapter)
Chapter 420: Fan Service
This is quite interesting.
After casually brushing off Pegasus, Hayato hung up the phone, looking at the Millennium Ring on his chest, which had suddenly lost its sensation.
His phone's call log couldn't be faked; before he communicated with Pegasus, a person calling themselves "Night" had indeed called Hayato, demanding that Hayato hand over his shares in Industrial Illusions.
Furthermore, after he spoke the name "Yako", the other party's reaction wasn't confusion at an unfamiliar name, but rather an unexpected surprise. Even if "Night" wasn't Yako, they at least knew of his existence.
Only one of the original twin brothers remained. Wasn't that interesting? Having learned Gekko's whereabouts from Pegasus, Hayato changed direction and headed back down the passage he had come from.
Although both Pegasus and Kaiba, as the leaders of their respective groups, weren't busy with 'proper' work, their subordinates were still diligently working. According to Pegasus, his adopted son and employee, Gekko, was currently assisting with data processing backstage at the Kaiba Dome.
However, halfway there, Hayato was stopped by two security guards stationed at the entrance to the backstage passage.
"Excuse me, sir, this is a work area," the staff member, dressed in a black uniform and wearing sunglasses, politely stated. "Please leave; visitors are not permitted here."
Hayato was initially surprised. After all, he often followed Mokuba to KaibaCorp when his Duel Addiction acted up, so he should have been well-acquainted with KaibaCorp's security team. Then, he belatedly remembered that he still had cognitive interference from the Millennium Rod active.
Snapping his fingers lightly, Hayato temporarily deactivated the cognitive interference, sweeping his hand across his face as if performing a magic trick, and said, "Can I go in now?"
Hayato was certain that, in the security guard's eyes, he had definitely become "Hayato" now. However, the security guard in front of Hayato's eyes first looked dazed for a moment, seemingly connecting Hayato with "Hayato" successfully, yet he still shook his head.
"No, even you, Mr. Hayato, cannot enter."
"Even I can't enter?" Hayato couldn't help but scrutinize the black-clad security guard in front of him. "Are you really a KaibaCorp security guard?"
"I—" The security guard in front of Hayato seemed about to say something to persuade Hayato to leave, but just as he opened his mouth, instructions apparently came through his earpiece. He listened while responding with two "yes"s, then showed an apologetic expression to Hayato.
"I apologize, Mr. Hayato, please come in." He stepped aside, extending a hand to guide Hayato. "You're looking for Mr. Gekko, aren't you? He's in the first room on the right."
Hayato nodded, indicating he understood. After giving the security guard a strange look, he walked towards the indicated location.
The first room on the right – though it was called a room – Hayato discovered upon reaching it was actually a remarkably spacious control room. Dozens of screens hung on one wall, displaying various situations within the Kaiba Dome. At least thirty people were busy working there.
Some sat before computers, operating data displayed on the screens and typing away at keyboards; others carried reports and identified problems calculated by the former, submitting them to positions capable of resolving them. One person sat at the central position of this "control room," ready to assign work to others at any moment.
With long, greenish-blue hair reaching down to his chin, and wearing a fitted, recolored suit similar to Pegasus's, Hayato guessed that the person standing in the center was likely Gekko.
After hearing the door open, the person in the central position, who had been giving detailed work instructions to others, turned his head to look at Hayato. Upon seeing Hayato, he offered a gentle smile. "Hello, Mr. Hayato, Lord Pegasus mentioned you were looking for me?"
"Are you Gekko?" Hayato's first impression of Gekko was quite good, both because of the other party's politeness and because, in Hayato's memory, Gekko in the manga was a righteous character who helped Yugi and others thwart Yako's plans.
After a moment of thought, Hayato posed the question, "First, I'd like to confirm, do you have a twin brother?"
"Uh, I might not be able to answer that question, Mr. Hayato," Gekko said, a little hesitantly. "I was adopted by Lord Pegasus at a very young age. I actually don't know who my parents are or where they are, let alone whether I have a twin brother."
"You can't be sure?" Hayato looked into Gekko's eyes, discerning only genuine uncertainty from those eyes, which matched his hair color. Although he didn't possess the ability of the Millennium Eye to read others' minds, Hayato's intuition told him that Gekko wasn't lying.
Harboring this uncertainty, Hayato once again used the power of the Millennium Ring. Under Gekko's astonished gaze, the five golden cones on the Millennium Ring floated upward, defying gravity, after emitting a golden light. However, instead of pointing in a consistent direction as they should, they each pointed in different directions.
The search for "Night" had failed again. Even the Millennium Ring couldn't track his whereabouts; it was as if "Night" had suddenly vanished from the world.
Reluctantly retracting the Millennium Ring, Hayato glanced at Gekko, whose eyes were filled with curiosity as he looked at the Millennium Ring. "Well, it's actually nothing important. I apologize for bothering you, Mr. Gekko."
"No, no, no, just call me Gekko, Mr. Hayato," Gekko said sincerely. "Mr. Hayato, you are a major shareholder of Industrial Illusions. In terms of position, I am merely an assistant to Lord Pegasus. You don't need to be so formal with me."
"Speaking of which, Mr. Hayato, I'm surprised you've come to the KC Cup as well. I initially thought I'd only have a chance to meet you after the KC Cup Finals concluded and the champion was decided." A hint of shyness appeared on Gekko's face. "Actually, I'm a fan of yours."
As he spoke, Gekko took a card box from his waist. "Because of Lord Pegasus, I've actually been incredibly interested in Duel Monsters since I was very young. The only slight regret is that Lord Pegasus said my talent for Duel Monsters was insufficient."
"Nevertheless, precisely because of that, Mr. Hayato, who defeated one powerful duelist after another and became the king of duels, completely captivated me."
"Although it might be a bit sudden, would you be willing to duel me, Mr. Hayato?"
Hayato raised an eyebrow and said with a smile, "Alright, no problem. Then, look forward to my fan service a little, Mr. Gekko."
So, where exactly is Yako, and who is he? An unrewarded question.
There's one more update later.
(end of chapter)