Chapter 354 - 481-485

"I Tribute one Level 10 or lower [Cyberdark] Fusion Monster on my Field, equipped with Cyber End Dragon ——— Cyberdark Dragon..."

Hearing what Sheppard said, Chumley was also taken aback.

Although his System's presence was low, Chumley found one function quite practical: the [Shop] function. However, it wasn't the function for drawing Card Packs, but rather the Shop where he could specifically exchange for Cards.

When Chumley first Transmigrated, the Real Card OCG Meta at that time saw Beast King Barbaros still rampant, Firewall Dragon had just transformed from "big brother" to "big sister" not long ago, and Elemental HERO Phoenix Enforcer was still an Elemental HERO. As time passed, Chumley could synchronize new Cards released in his previous World through the System, such as Elemental HERO Neos Shining Flare Wingman.

Chumley had seen the Summoning condition Sheppard was currently using shortly before his Transmigration, in the Structure Deck numbered "SD41." However, due to meteorological reasons, the domestic release of the SD41 Structure Deck was delayed, and Chumley never received his pre-ordered Structure Deck until his Transmigration; he only saw the Cards inside that Structure Deck through the System.

The Monster Summoned by this condition was, indeed,

Under Chumley's astonished gaze, black mist surged from Cyberdark Dragon, which was clutching Cyber End Dragon. It enveloped both itself and Cyber End Dragon, which was being used as an Equip Card. Within the pitch-black mist, yellow Lightning emerged, accompanied by the sound of breaking Chains.

"Scattered across the World, the wisdom of shadows, pour down as a star of miracles! Leap! Dance!"

Sheppard looked at the giant Monster enveloped in mist and shouted with a resonant voice, "Raging torrents, gather in my Hand, break through the limits!!"

"Fusion Summon, Cyberdark End Dragon!!!"

As Sheppard raised his hand high, the Cyberdark Dragon on his Field, surrounded by mist, also responded. The bright yellow Lightning that had been bound by the mist broke free, and destructive yellow light filled everything in sight.

Although its appearance seemed unchanged, still just Cyberdark Dragon clutching Cyber End Dragon, its essence had become completely different.

The Cyberdark Dragon that transcended its original limits—no, Cyberdark End Dragon! Cards in the Graveyard would no longer be its aid, nor would it be restricted by the Graveyard. It had transcended conventional limitations and reached a brand new realm, just like Sheppard, who used the "Cyberdark Style" with a life-or-death resolve!

[Cyberdark End Dragon] [Level 12 / DARK Attribute]

[Machine / Fusion / Effect Monster]

[ATK 5000 / DEF 3800]

The Chains of Curse of Darkness that had previously bound Cyberdark Dragon had vanished from Cyberdark End Dragon. Along with that, the power boost it gained from the Graveyard was also gone. However, at the same time, the Power of Cyber End Dragon had perfectly merged with it, no longer an Equip Card that could be Destroyed at any moment.

"Its Level is the Top-tier Level 12, and its Attack is as high as 5000 points." Chumley's gaze was very serious. Although a Duel Monster's Level isn't an absolute measure of its strength, none with a Level as high as Level 12 can be underestimated, even some Level 12 Vanilla Fusion Monsters.

Although Cyberdark End Dragon is also a Fusion Monster, it's clear it can't be a Normal Monster without an Effect; otherwise, it wouldn't live up to its current Aura. And if Chumley remembered correctly, its Effect seemed to be...

"The Materials required for the Fusion Summon of Cyberdark End Dragon are Cyber End Dragon and Cyberdark Dragon. However, it can be Special Summoned by Tributing one Level 10 or lower [Cyberdark] Fusion Monster on my Field equipped with Cyber End Dragon."

After Summoning Cyberdark End Dragon, Sheppard's complexion became much worse than before. His left hand, not holding any cards, was clutching his chest tightly. Even a medical layman, unfamiliar with traditional diagnosis, could tell his physical condition was quite poor at this moment.

But even while his body endured unprecedented pain, Sheppard persisted in the Duel, "Once per Turn, Cyberdark End Dragon can Equip one Monster Card from either player's Graveyard to itself. Also, Cyberdark End Dragon can Attack a number of times equal to the number of Equip Cards equipped to it during each Battle Phase."

"And its final Effect, as a symbol of transcending limits and unifying the 'Cyberdark Style' and 'Cyber Style,' Cyberdark End Dragon has the ability to not be affected by your Opponent's activated Effects."

"Ugh! Cough, cough, cough!" The words had barely fallen when Sheppard, as if unable to bear it any longer, covered his mouth with his hand and coughed, his Aura very weak.

"Sheppard."

"Mr. Sheppard."

Having calmed his cough and straightened his chest again, Sheppard heard Chumley's and the Former Master's concern in their words. He forced a strained smile, "Don't worry about me. Rather, I'm enjoying this moment."

"Breaking through my past limits, I, in this moment, have already surpassed 'perfection.' As long as this moment can shine infinitely enough, an instant is eternity!"

Sheppard said, as if burning his Soul, rekindling his fighting spirit and strength. He loudly Declared, "Then I Activate Cyberdark End Dragon's Effect! I Equip Cyber End Dragon from your Graveyard to Cyberdark End Dragon as an Equip Card!"

"Then, from my Back Row, I Activate the Effect of Cyberdark Invasion! I Equip Cyberdark Cannon from my Graveyard to Cyberdark End Dragon as an Equip Card, increasing its Attack by 1000 points!"

Two Cards were successively placed on Sheppard's Back Row: Cyber End Dragon, taken from Chumley's Graveyard, and Cyberdark Cannon from Sheppard's Graveyard. Both Equip Cards were absorbed one by one by Cyberdark End Dragon, causing its already Five-Headed Dragon-equivalent 5000 Attack points to increase further!

[Cyberdark End Dragon] (Equipped with Cyber End Dragon, Cyberdark Cannon) [ATK 5000 → 6000]

"Now, enter my Battle Phase!"

Sheppard, having confirmed he had pushed himself to the limit, made his Declaration, his gaze falling upon the Cards in Chumley's Back Row.

At the end of Chumley's previous Turn, he had four Set Cards on his Back Row besides the Time Capsule he Activated at the start. One of them was a Set Card from the very first Turn, but he hadn't Activated it even when attacked directly by Cyberdarkness Dragon; it seemed to be a Card of unknown significance.

Besides that, Chumley had only Set three Cards last Turn. One of them was Curse of Darkness he had used on Cyberdark Dragon, which had already been Sent to the Graveyard because Cyberdark Dragon left the Field. This meant only two Cards remained.

In addition, regarding the Card in Chumley's Hand, Sheppard had a certain grasp of that Card, so he kept one Card in his Hand instead of playing it.

Chumley only had one Monster on his Field: Cyber Dragon in Attack Position. So now, there was only one thing to do.

"Cyberdark End Dragon, Attack Cyber Dragon!" Sheppard extended his hand, pointing at the Cyber Dragon on Chumley's Field. Although Cyber Dragon had used the Effect of Power of Inheritance to Destroy Cyberdarkness Dragon last Turn, its Attack was only 2100 points now.

Once this Attack hit, Chumley's Life Points would instantly plummet to a mere 100 points, like a flickering candle in the wind.

"Don't be swallowed by Darkness, Chumley!" Sheppard encouraged Chumley, "Show me the Light of your Duelist Soul!"

"Hyper-Darkend-Break!"

The Lightning from Cyberdark End Dragon gathered into a sphere of Lightning in front of it, and a beam of light cannon surged towards the Cyber Dragon on Chumley's Field.

This Attack was not something that could be easily blocked. Even Cards like Sakuretsu Armor and Mirror Force would find it difficult to save Cyber Dragon. The reason lay in Cyberdark End Dragon's troublesome ability to "not be affected by your Opponent's activated Effects."

Whether it was a Spell Card, Trap Card, or Monster Effect, whether Activated from the Field, Graveyard, or Hand, the moment Chumley Activated an Effect, Cyberdark End Dragon would gain a brief but unbreakable Resistance, repelling everything. Only Continuous Effects would have the ability to affect Cyberdark End Dragon.

So, could Chumley be so lucky as to have a continuously active Card?

"Kuriri!"

Under the Lightning that annihilated all things, a seemingly small, fragile, and powerless Monster sprang from Chumley's Hand!

"At the instant Cyberdark End Dragon Declares an Attack, the Effect of Rainbow Kuriboh in my Hand Activates!"

Watching Rainbow Kuriboh set up a soft, rainbow-colored veil on the Field, shielding against the destructive Lightning, Chumley added, "Rainbow Kuriboh will be Equipped to your Cyberdark End Dragon, Mr. Sheppard, as an Equip Card. And Cyberdark End Dragon, equipped with Rainbow Kuriboh, will thus be stripped of its ability to Attack!"

With a smirk, Chumley said, "This isn't a temporary 'Activated' Effect; it's a 'Continuous' 'Equip Effect,' so even Cyberdark End Dragon can't be immune to it!"

"Kuriboh!"

On Chumley's shoulder, Rainbow Kuriboh proudly placed its hands on its hips.

But just then, Chumley heard Sheppard's voice from across the Duel Field: "As expected, Chumley, the Card in your Hand was Rainbow Kuriboh."

"Although it's a Monster with very weak Attack and Defense, it has appeared repeatedly in your Duels as a Duel King, helping you defeat enemies, so I have a deep impression of it."

Sheppard said, Drawing a Card from his Hand, "Since an Equip Card has the ability to restrict a Monster's Attack, I Chain to Rainbow Kuriboh's Effect and Activate the Quick-Play Spell Card Mystical Space Typhoon from my Hand!"

"Nani?!" "Kuriboh!?"

The classic and useful Mystical Space Typhoon was placed in the only open slot on Sheppard's Back Row, transforming into a powerful storm. Rainbow Kuriboh, which was strong against Monster Attacks, desperately clung to Chumley's clothes, not wanting to leave, but couldn't resist Mystical Space Typhoon's pull and was Destroyed.

After Rainbow Kuriboh was Destroyed, the rainbow light veil that protected Cyber Dragon also vanished, and Cyberdark End Dragon's Attack landed———

"Boom!"

"Ughhh!!!"

The 6000 Attack points Destroyed Cyber Dragon, and the largely undiminished Battle Damage landed directly on Chumley. The almost tangible electric shock knocked Chumley back about ten meters, sending him crashing into the wall at the end of the room, causing him to let out a muffled groan.

[Chumley: 4000 → 100 LP]

A full 3900 points of Damage instantly reduced Chumley's Life Points to only three digits. But Chumley didn't relax, simply because———

"Cyberdark End Dragon has the ability to Attack up to the number of Equip Cards equipped to it in One Turn," even as he watched Chumley's Life Points drop to 100, Sheppard did not hold back and continued to command, "Therefore, I can Attack once more!"

"Direct Attack your Opponent, Cyberdark End Dragon..."

"Second Hyper-Darkend-Break!"

Surging Lightning reappeared, and this time Chumley didn't even have a Monster as a shield; he would face a full 6000 Attack points with only 100 Life Points!

"This is truly a dangerous situation; if I get hit, I'm finished." Chumley watched as the Lightning sphere largely formed and was about to fire, revealing an excited expression, "However, my partner isn't so easily defeated!"

"When your Opponent's Monster Declares a Direct Attack, I Activate the Effect of Rainbow Kuriboh, which was just Destroyed in my Graveyard, to Special Summon it from the Graveyard in Defense Position!"

"Wake Up, Waga Hero!"

"Kuriboh!"

[Rainbow Kuriboh] [DEF 100]

The tiny Monster revived from the Graveyard, standing before Chumley, whose Life Points were like a flickering candle in the wind, once again serving as Chumley's Barrier.

In front of Cyberdark End Dragon's 6000 Attack points, Rainbow Kuriboh, with only 100 Defense, would be instantly Destroyed. However, because it was in Defense Position, Chumley would not take Damage from this Attack.

Or so it should have been.

The Lightning shot forth, and Rainbow Kuriboh closed its eyes, awaiting Destruction. But along with the Lightning came the Card Sheppard used to destroy Rainbow Kuriboh's protection.

"Protecting you once again, what a kind Monster." Sheppard inserted a Card from his Hand into the Spell & Trap Zone, "But I Activate this Card, my second Quick-Play Spell Card, Enemy Controller!"

"Change your Rainbow Kuriboh to Attack Position, then the Attack continues!"

[Rainbow Kuriboh] [DEF 100 → ATK 100]

As the buttons on a game controller were pressed, the Rainbow Kuriboh, originally in Defense Position, was forced into Attack Position. Reflected in its eyes was the Lightning unleashed by Cyberdark End Dragon...

(end of chapter)

Chapter 482: Descent from Draco

Sheppard gave the command: "It seems this is the end, Chumley. This is the final, Transcending Cyber End Burst!"

Lightning, capable of destroying all things, descended, instantly obliterating the (Rainbow Kuriboh) in Attack Position. Before the (Rainbow Kuriboh) vanished, its apologetic gaze met the undiminished lightning as it reached Chumley.

The Battle Damage amounted to a staggering 5900 Life Points!

"Boom!!"

Chumley, who had been slammed against the wall earlier, was engulfed by the lightning. Sheppard watched Chumley's figure disappear and couldn't help but sigh: "The outcome was actually..."

"Still a failure," sighed the Former Master, who was acting as the Duel's Judge, his face filled with regret. "It seems that the ultimate Legacy of the 'Cyber Style' is indeed—"

"No, Chumley hasn't lost yet, Master!" Listening to the Former Master's regretful words, Sheppard suddenly seemed to notice something, his regret replaced by an expectant expression. "The (Cyberdark End Dragon) hasn't disappeared from my Field!"

"The (Cyberdark End Dragon), which should have vanished with the end of the Duel, hasn't disappeared, meaning this Duel is still ongoing. Chumley didn't lose from that previous attack!"

"But how did Chumley manage to..."

Answering Sheppard's confusion was Chumley's voice, emanating from the dust stirred up by the (Cyberdark End Dragon)'s Attack.

"It was a Set Card. I used a Set Card, you see."

Chumley emerged from the dust, holding a gradually fading (Rainbow Kuriboh) card. Before him, a yellow energy barrier had blocked the (Cyberdark End Dragon), preventing it from approaching Chumley until its power was completely depleted.

The (Rainbow Kuriboh) card in his Hand vanished. Chumley spread his hand: "The (Rainbow Kuriboh), Special Summoned from the Graveyard by its Effect, was Destroyed by Battle just now, and is therefore Banished from the Game."

"As for the Battle Damage, that was the Effect of this Set Card I Activated, (Power Wall)."

"A Trap Card?" Sheppard looked at the (Power Wall) Chumley Activated, depicting a hero holding up a shield to challenge a Great Dragon in an act of protection. He had never seen this Card before. "The (Cyberdark End Dragon) shouldn't be affected by Effects you Activate, Chumley. A Negate Attack Effect shouldn't work."

Chumley shook his head: "No, (Power Wall) isn't a Card like (Absorption Shield) that Negates the Opponent's Monster's Attack. Your Attack indeed Destroyed the (Rainbow Kuriboh). What (Power Wall) Negates is only the 'Damage'."

As Chumley explained, he raised the Duel Disk on his left arm. It was then that Sheppard noticed that, at some point, a thick stack of cards was missing from Chumley's Deck.

"(Power Wall) can only be Activated during Damage Calculation when an Opponent's Monster's Attack would inflict Battle Damage to me," Chumley pointed to his Graveyard. "Until that battle's Battle Damage to me becomes 0, for every 500 points of Damage, I Send one Card from the top of my Deck to the Graveyard."

"The Battle Damage that (Cyberdark End Dragon) would inflict to me after Destroying the (Rainbow Kuriboh) with 100 ATK was 5900 Life Points. Therefore, I needed to Send twelve Cards from the top of my Deck to the Graveyard to reduce the Damage to 0."

[Chumley: 100LP]

"Sending your own Deck to the Graveyard to negate Battle Damage, a remarkable decision," Sheppard praised, a hint of a smile appearing on his face. "You successfully blocked the (Cyberdark End Dragon)'s Double Attack, Chumley."

"Even such a fierce and tempestuous assault can be blocked. In this case, even I am out of options." Sheppard glanced at the last Card in his Hand and Set it on his Back Row. "Then, I Set one Card. My Turn, ends here."

[Sheppard: 1800LP, Hand 0]

[(Cyberdark End Dragon) (Cyber End Dragon, Cyberdark Cannon) ATK6000]

[(Cyberdark World) (Cyberdark Invasion) Set Card]

After declaring the End Turn, Sheppard's legs buckled, and he stumbled, almost losing his footing. He couldn't help but cough twice, looking extremely weak.

However, Sheppard's eyes remained fixed on Chumley, unwilling to move. He yearned to see hope in Chumley, expecting Chumley to respond to his life-and-death Duel.

Chumley wasn't in a hurry to Draw; instead, he lowered his head to look at his Deck. The total number of Cards in the Deck he was using for this Duel was the minimum limit of 40 Cards. Due to activating (Card of Sanctity) twice in the previous two Turns to Draw cards, although he replenished a large amount of Hand resources, the result was a significant depletion of Cards in Chumley's Deck.

Coupled with the (Power Wall) he just Activated, which saved his last 100 Life Points, Chumley's Deck now only had five Cards remaining.

Sheppard's (Cyberdark End Dragon) possessed powerful Resistance, making it almost immune to all Effects. Although it could be eaten by an invincible (Gameciel, the Sea Turtle Kaiju), Chumley's Deck didn't contain (Gameciel, the Sea Turtle Kaiju), and even if he used (Gameciel, the Sea Turtle Kaiju) to remove the (Cyberdark End Dragon), he couldn't deal with (Gameciel, the Sea Turtle Kaiju) himself.

If he couldn't Draw a Card capable of defeating the (Cyberdark End Dragon) this Turn, he would undoubtedly lose.

Chumley had just checked the Cards he Sent to the Graveyard; the Card that could help Chumley defeat the (Cyberdark End Dragon) had not been Sent to the Graveyard, meaning it was still in the Deck.

As long as he could Draw that Card from the remaining five Cards, he could turn the tide and win. But if he Drew any other Card, he would lose. In his desperate state, he had no ability to block the (Cyberdark End Dragon)'s Attack.

In other words, Chumley could call this Duel a gamble with only a 20% chance of victory.

"My resolve for victory, my honor in Dueling, I'll stake it all on this Draw," Chumley placed his fingers on the Duel Disk, taking a deep breath. "This is my final struggle!"

"My Turn, Draw!"

The Card Drawn by Chumley traced a golden arc in mid-air. In this instant of Drawing, an instantaneous Illusion appeared before Chumley's eyes.

He saw an explosion, where time and space were born.

He saw an explosion, where countless stars were born.

He saw an explosion, where life was born.

And then, another explosion.

Amidst the chaos, countless Starlight illuminated, outlining a massive, long Dragon that appeared before Chumley's eyes.

Looking in Chumley's direction, the Star Dragon surveyed him up and down. As if confirming something, it nodded before disappearing.

Leaving behind only a vague and incomprehensible message: "...unfamiliar kin... radiant Soul... in the name of... permission..."

By the time Chumley recovered, he realized he had just finished the Draw action. With a flick of his wrist, the Card between his fingers flipped over, revealed before his eyes. Looking at the Card, a smile tugged at Chumley's lips.

"It seems the final Ace Card will indeed come to my Hand."

Chumley raised his palm, pointing to a Card on his Field: "During my Standby Phase, with the passage of time, (Time Capsule) will be Destroyed, and the Card that I Banished from the very beginning of the Duel will now come to my Hand."

The Pharaoh's Sarcophagus on his Field slowly rose from the ground and then gradually dissipated at a certain height, revealing a Card deeply hidden within, which Chumley added to his Hand.

Following that, Chumley Activated that other Set Card on his Field, the one he had Set on the first Turn, the "mysterious" Set Card.

"The Card I Set on my Backrow is this one, Trap Card (Descent from Draco). During the Turn this Card is Activated, I cannot Special Summon Monsters by any other Effect than this Card's."

Originally enveloped by the red-purple Power of (Cyberdark World), Chumley's Field was now, as he Activated (Descent from Draco), illuminated by a beam of Starlight. This Starlight projected an independent space within the ominous Darkness.

Starting from this beam of Starlight, another beam of light shone down, then one after another, the Power of (Cyberdark World), which had permeated the entire Field, was completely expelled from Chumley's vicinity, leaving only the pure, Starlight-illuminated ground.

Sheppard and the Former Master couldn't help but gaze at the sky above Chumley. The scene they witnessed greatly shocked them; for a moment, they didn't even know how to describe the strange sight, forgetting even to exclaim, only managing to etch the scene into their minds.

Appearing above Chumley's head was none other than a brilliant and dazzling Extreme Sky Meteor Shower, countless meteors creating a breathtaking Starry Sky!

Accompanying the meteor shower was the illuminated Graveyard zone on Chumley's Duel Disk, where the Monsters Chumley had Sent to the Graveyard in previous battles appeared one by one.

(Cyber Dragon), (Cyber Dragon Nachster), (Cyber Dragon Vier)... one Monster after another, the Cards they resided in were Banished from Chumley's Graveyard. They transformed into Phantoms, appearing sequentially behind Chumley, and then dissipated one by one, becoming meteors streaking across the sky, falling under the heavens.

"From my Field and Graveyard, I Banish all LIGHT Attribute Machine-Type Monsters. As a Cost for this 'Extreme Sky Meteor Shower', (Descent from Draco) can be Activated," Chumley looked up at the stars, a smile gracing his lips, as he raised the Card he had just Drawn this Turn from his Hand. "From my Hand, I Special Summon one Level 6 or higher LIGHT Attribute Machine-Type Monster."

The Starlight seemed to have found a converging point, collectively surging towards the Card Chumley held high above his head. Even before Chumley could place the Card on his Duel Disk, a resounding Dragon roar echoed from behind him.

A massive mechanical Great Dragon's head materialized through the concentrated Starlight and the Power of the numerous Monsters Chumley had Banished. Though a mechanical construct, it seemed to possess its own life, looking down upon everything on the ground.

Beside the enormous mechanical Dragon head, the Power of the Monsters Chumley had Banished with (Descent from Draco) gathered and transformed into numerous small, floating mechanical Dragon head Float-Cannons, orbiting the gigantic Dragon head like Planets guarding a star.

"Oh, light and darkness wandering in the cosmos, gather in my Hand as a torrent and a light of hope!" Chumley slammed the Card in his Hand onto the Duel Disk. "In the name of the stars, the infinite, and Draco, open the door of truth for me!"

"Come forth, my glory, my Soul!!"

"The ultimate, strongest (Cyber Dragon) — (Cyber Eltanin)!!!"

[(Cyber Eltanin) Level 10/LIGHT Attribute]

[Machine-Type/Special Summon/Effect]

[?/ ?]

"Is that... (Cyber Eltanin)?!" The Former Master watched the (Cyber Eltanin) Chumley Summoned, immensely excited.

The Card passed down through generations of the Cyber Style, that (Cyber Eltanin) whose essence no one else could even perceive, was now genuinely Summoned into this World. His heart was so agitated that he wished he could run out of the Dojo and cosplay some energetic character on a bustling street.

Sheppard also looked at the (Cyber Eltanin) with a strange expression: "You successfully Summoned it, Chumley, as expected of you! You easily achieved what we couldn't, which fills my Heart with excitement!"

Sheppard's (Cyberdark End Dragon) on the Field looked at the towering (Cyber Eltanin) as if facing a formidable enemy, the lightning on its body uncontrollably overflowing.

Chumley, who had plagiarized a certain No. Hunter's line to Summon (Cyber Eltanin), was ironically the calmest person on the scene. He confidently stated: "The (Cyber Eltanin) Summoned by (Descent from Draco) will have its Attack and DEF values become the number of Monsters Banished by its Effect multiplied by 500 points."

"The total number of Banished Monsters is fourteen. Therefore, (Cyber Eltanin)'s Attack and DEF values are 7000 points!"

[(Cyber Eltanin) 7000/7000]

"Attack of 7000 points?!" Sheppard glanced at his (Cyberdark End Dragon) on the Field; its 6000 ATK instantly lost its luster. "Although (Cyberdark End Dragon) has the ability to not be affected by Opponent's Activated Effects, did you actually surpass it in ATK?"

"Chumley, by Summoning (Cyber Eltanin), you have indeed shown me genuine 'hope'. But I must use this Card as a response to your all-out Duel." Sheppard said, Activating his Backrow Set Card. "Chain to the Special Summon of (Cyber Eltanin), I Activate Trap Card (Bottomless Trap Hole)!"

"When an Opponent's Monster is Normal Summoned, Special Summoned, or Flip Summoned, change that Monster to Face-down Defense Position and it cannot Change Battle Position!"

Seeing that the Set Card Sheppard Activated was this one, Chumley laughed proudly: "Muda, muda, muda! The (Cyber Eltanin) Special Summoned by (Descent from Draco) is not an existence whose Soul would be bound by mere gravity!"

"It will not be affected by Card Effects other than its own. Even if we don't compare Attack and DEF, (Cyber Eltanin)'s Resistance surpasses your (Cyberdark End Dragon)!"

"Nani?!" Sheppard looked at his Activated (Bottomless Trap Hole), which, despite successfully Activating, had no effect on the (Cyber Eltanin) in the sky. He had a very surprised expression. "Not affected by Effects other than its own, is this the Power of the isolated stars?"

"However, I won't give up just like that!" Since the Effect to Weaken his Opponent didn't succeed, then he would Enhance himself. "I Activate the Effect of (Cyberdark Invasion)! Once per Turn, I Equip (Cyberdark Chimera) from my Graveyard to (Cyberdark End Dragon) as an Equip Spell that increases its Attack by 1000 points!"

[(Cyberdark End Dragon) (Cyber End Dragon, Cyberdark Cannon, Cyberdark Chimera) ATK6000 → 7000]

"Hmph hmph, pathetic, pathetic, pathetic! 'Dark Cyber Style' ultimately relies only on external Power. Before absolute Power, it's simply vulnerable." Chumley played his last Card from his Hand. "Then, let this Card put an end to this Duel!"

"Activate Spell Card, (Harpie's Feather Duster)!"

"Destroy all Spell/Trap Cards on the Opponent's Field!"

The Power derived from (Harpie Lady) transformed into a storm, turning Sheppard's crowded Backrow into a tempestuous wasteland. The (Cyberdark End Dragon) wailed, but could not resist this absolute Power stripping it of its Equip Cards one by one.

(Cyber End Dragon), (Cyberdark Cannon), and (Cyberdark Chimera) were all stripped away and Returned to the Graveyard. The (Cyberdark End Dragon), its Power plummeting back to its original 5000 points, looked up and noticed the (Cyber Eltanin) in the sky gazing down at it, its eyes like a human curiously observing a tiny ant on the ground.

[(Cyberdark End Dragon) ATK7000 → 5000]

Chumley's voice came from outside the storm: "Then, entering my Battle Phase, let this final strike, symbolizing Starlight, purify everything."

"The Darkness of the Dark Cyber Style, I shall crush!"

"(Cyber Eltanin) Attacks (Cyberdark End Dragon). The name of the Attack is..."

"Inferno Unrivaled Blazing Wave Cannon!"

(end of chapter)

Chapter 483: I Got the Amazing... Drytron!

As Cyber Eltanin's attack destroyed Cyberdark End Dragon, Sheppard's Life Points were completely depleted by the residual damage from the weakened attack.

[Sheppard: 1800 LP → 0]

With one side's Life Points reaching zero, the Duel ended. The figure of Cyber Eltanin on Hayato's Field slowly dissipated, transforming into sparkling stardust. On Hayato's Duel Disk, a light flashed across the Cyber Eltanin card, catching his attention.

Looking down, Hayato noticed a slight change in the Cyber Eltanin card on his Duel Disk as the Duel concluded. If most Duel Monster cards were typically "Normal" cards, without special finishes, this Cyber Eltanin had suddenly transformed into a "Holographic Rare" card, also known as "HR."

Not only had its original black card name turned into a gleaming gold, but Cyber Eltanin's overall image also gained a sense of three-dimensionality, looking like an embossed sculpture. Even the clouds in the card's background art became vibrant and bright.

"What is this?"

Lost in thought, Hayato heard a "thud." He turned his head to see Sheppard lying flat on his back on the floor; the sound had come from his fall.

"Mr. Sheppard!"

Hayato and the Former Master rushed to the fallen Sheppard's side, carefully helping the weak-looking Sheppard up from the ground.

"Hey, Sheppard, can you still stand?" The Former Master looked at Sheppard, whose face was pale from the recent Duel. Although his words sounded harsh, he was deeply worried about Sheppard's condition.

At the same time, he felt a degree of self-reproach. After all, Sheppard had Dueled Hayato for the Legacy of the "Cyber Style." Although this was the responsibility of the "Cyber Style" Master, the previous bearer of this responsibility had been Sheppard's own teacher, the Former Master himself.

If I had stayed in my position a little longer, Sheppard wouldn't have had to risk his life using the 'Cyberdark Style' like this, would he? the Former Master thought to himself.

"Ah, I'm just a bit too tired, Master."

In the previous Duel, Sheppard had pushed past his limits, Summoning the strongest "Cyberdark Style" monster, Cyberdark End Dragon. The cost of breaking those limits now manifested on him: a few more wrinkles appeared on his cheeks, and his hair showed hints of gray, making him look much older.

"During the Duel, I actually reached my physical limit long ago, and was only pushing through with sheer will. Just now, because the Duel ended, I couldn't help but relax for a moment." Pulling a forced smile, Sheppard reassured the Former Master, "However, I didn't fail my mission."

"Mm, you did well, you did very well."

Amidst the Former Master's praise, Sheppard looked at Hayato, also noticing the "upgraded" Cyber Eltanin card in his hand.

"It seems you succeeded, didn't you? Then, the rest is up to you, Hayato." Sheppard solemnly entrusted Hayato, "The Legacy of 'Cyber Style,' I leave it to you."

Nodding at Sheppard, Hayato held the Cyber Eltanin card in one hand and the metal box Sheppard had given him earlier in the other. He placed the Cyber Eltanin card above the box as if Summoning a Monster.

The moment the card touched the metal box, it was as if some mechanical device inside the box instantly reacted, sensing something within the Cyber Eltanin card. The intricate patterns on the metal box's surface lit up with blue light, outlining a star-like motif.

With a "clack," a crack appeared on the surface of the metal box, which had previously been seamless. The box automatically unfolded, pushing out a dozen or so cards hidden within, from bottom to top.

The card at the very top was none other than Drytron Meteonis Dracoverlord, a Level 12, 4000 ATK/DEF, noble LIGHT Attribute Machine-Type Ritual Monster.

Within a deep, orange-red cosmos, countless bright yellow stars shimmered. A mechanical, dragon-shaped behemoth spread its blue light-wings, which were equipped with sextant-like armaments, as if a celestial deity had descended upon the universe, reigning over the world.

Named after the "Quadrantids Meteor Shower" — Drytron Meteonis Dracoverlord, even just looking at its card art, one could feel a sense of grandeur originating from the infinite universe, and in comparison, a realization of one's own insignificance.

If a person's will wasn't strong enough, they might not even need to use it; just looking at the card would likely make them collapse in fear.

Hayato took the Drytron Deck from the card box. Looking at the Drytron Meteonis Dracoverlord card, the Former Master couldn't help but reveal a relieved smile.

The "Cyber Style" had been passed down through generations until now, and this mystery, which no one could inherit, was finally unveiled. Without being someone like the Former Master, who had dedicated almost his entire life to the style, others couldn't understand his feelings at this moment.

However, catching a glimpse of the weakened Sheppard also smiling, the Former Master suddenly remembered that there was still another problem the "Cyber Style" needed to resolve: the issue of the "Cyberdark Style."

Although Sheppard had successfully broken through his limits to use Cyberdark End Dragon, others could tell how strained he was. The Duel was practically a desperate struggle, clearly indicating that he hadn't fully gained the recognition of the "Cyberdark Style" and was merely pushing through with his will as a Duelist.

This was by no means the true way to use the "Cyberdark Style." It was like a heavy greatsword: though dragging it along the ground forcibly could barely be called using it, its true application should at least involve being able to lift it.

The ultimate power of the "Cyber Style" — the Drytron Deck in Hayato's hands — had found its destined inheritor. So, when would the inheritor of the "darkness" of "Cyber Style" — the "Cyberdark Style" — appear?

Thinking of this, the Former Master suddenly felt a bit of relief.

Even if he didn't live to see the successor appear, it wouldn't matter. Although Sheppard's personality was completely different from his teacher's, lacking much competitiveness and tending towards being benevolent, the fact that he once secretly used a "Cyberdark Style" Deck without telling him showed that the boy wasn't entirely without ambition.

Rather, the boy's ambition wasn't focused on others but on himself; he strived not to be stronger than others, but to surpass himself. Entrusting the "Cyber Style" to such a Sheppard was truly the right decision.

Perhaps, the inheritor of the "Cyberdark Style" might even be born from among his disciples someday.

Speaking of which, it was fortunate that Sheppard had mentioned to him recently that a disciple he had taken on, though young, possessed an almost innate and powerful talent for using "Cyber Style." Sheppard even asserted that it wouldn't be long before this disciple would qualify to obtain Cyber End Dragon.

What was that kid's name again? Something "Ryo"? Anyway, among a bunch of apprentices who were slacking off during their draw practice, he was the only one seriously training. His talent was unclear, but he was certainly diligent.

No one knew how far that kid would go in the future. Today's young people were getting stronger by the day. As an outdated old man, he might as well just watch the younger generation from the sidelines.

----Dragon + Mech Card = Drytron, Dragon + Waifu Card = ?----

A week later, on Kaiba's plutocrat-owned plane, Hayato and Yugi's group departed from San Francisco, preparing to return to Domino City.

After this period of recovery, Tristan and Téa had recuperated well and were successfully discharged from the hospital. As for Marik, whether it was due to extraordinary talent or something else, despite barely resting properly in the hospital and constantly playing a brother-sister game of cat and mouse with Ishizu, his body genuinely returned to normal recovery benchmarks.

On the airport tarmac, in front of the boarding gate for Kaiba's "Blue-Eyes White Dragon Jet," Professor Arthur Hawkins and Grandpa Solomon Muto bid each other a reluctant farewell: "It's time to part ways again, Solomon."

"Indeed, I wonder when we'll be able to meet again, Arthur."

The two elderly men held hands, their eyes filled with reluctance to part from their friend.

Both of them were well into their years. Although in their youth they were capable individuals who fought on the front lines of archaeology, climbing mountains and traversing lands, as time passed day by day, age had taken much from them. In a few more years, they might not even be able to fly anymore.

Separated by oceans, the number of times they could meet would only decrease, making every farewell potentially a permanent one.

Beside Professor Arthur and Grandpa Muto, Rebecca, teary-eyed, clung to Yugi's hand: "Darling, please don't leave, okay? I'll earn money to support you!"

"What will I do without you? Take me with you, Darling~"

As she spoke, Rebecca tried to push her luck and move closer to Yugi, intending to hug him. However, before her hands could embrace Yugi's arm, a seemingly fair and delicate, yet strong and powerful, hand firmly pressed against Rebecca's head, preventing her from advancing an inch.

Téa's face darkened: "You're underage, so act like it! Keep your distance from Yugi, seriously!"

"No way! You vixen, get away from my Darling!"

"Who are you calling a vixen? You brat, go study!"

"I'm already in college!"

"So what? You're still a kid!"

Squabbling furiously, the two women, faces contorted, moved away from Yugi, their "battlefield." They locked fingers and pressed their foreheads firmly together.

"Darling is mine!" Despite her young age, Rebecca's demeanor didn't lose out to Téa's one bit.

"Hehe, kids can only yap. What can you do to me? I'm Yugi's classmate, I go to school and come home with him every day, and I even go to his house to play, you know." Téa showed an exaggerated, taunting expression, "Can you do that?"

"Wha— you can even go to Darling's house to play?!" Rebecca was instantly broken by Téa's words, involuntarily imagining scenes of Téa playing at Yugi's house---

In Yugi's living room, Grandpa Muto was slumped on the sofa, clutching a beer, his arm swinging loosely over the armrest. Drunk, he mumbled, "Jolly good~ Jolly good~"

On the other sofa, Yugi and Téa sat together, each drinking a can of alcohol, while laughing at the drunken Solomon: "Look at Grandpa Sugoroku, he's already out after just a few cans. How lame."

"This Grandpa is so lame."

Hearing Yugi's words, Téa raised an eyebrow, looking at Yugi with interest: "Hearing you say that, you're pretty brave, huh?"

"No way, I'm super brave, okay? I can drink a lot."

"Drink a lot? Pretty brave, huh~" Téa, with a lewd smile, patted Yugi's thigh, "Nice physique, quite firm~"

Flushed from the alcohol, Yugi's face reddened. He shyly pulled his thigh away from Téa's hand: "H-hey, Téa, what are you doing!"

Téa sized Yugi up and down, a smirk forming on her lips: "How old are you, still so shy? I think you completely don't understand, do you?"

"Un-understand what?"

"You want to understand?" Téa leaned close to Yugi's ear. Téa's natural scent, mixed with the smell of alcohol, wafted into Yugi's nose, making his cheeks flush red. "I've got some good stuff in the room."

"Good stuff? Is it new cards?"

"What new cards? It's even more exciting than cards, and I can teach you some grown-up fun~"

---

Rebecca tried to forcibly stop herself from imagining further, but in her ears, she could already hear Yugi's "Téa, no!" as Téa pounced on him. Her face was a mix of unwillingness, jealousy, and an expression of disbelief: "Don't do that!!!"

"That's it, that's the expression I've always wanted to see!" Téa looked down at Rebecca triumphantly, "That look of jealousy towards me!"

Yugi, Tristan, and Joey, standing by, also felt extremely embarrassed watching the "Facial Expression Battle" between the two women.

Although Téa had only said that she "often went to Yugi's house to play" from beginning to end, Rebecca's expression was entirely her own imagination. What Téa hadn't mentioned was that several others also went to Yugi's house to play.

Rebecca thought Téa was going to "cook the raw rice into cooked rice" with Yugi (i.e., seal the deal), but the actual scenario was---

"I Tribute the Monster on my Field to Summon my Ace Monster, Red-Eyes Black Dragon! Then, I Equip the Spell Card Dragon's Claw and Attack your Dark Magician, Yugi!"

"Wow, an attack of 3000 ATK! So strong, too strong! I activate the Trap Card Mirror Force!"

"Come forth, my Soul, Swift Gaia the Fierce Knight! Then I activate the Spell Card Ectoplasmer, and at the End Phase of My Turn, I Release Gaia! This is a necessary sacrifice!"

---

Rebecca tried to forcibly stop herself from imagining further, but in her ears, she could already hear Yugi's "Téa, no!" as Téa pounced on him. Her face was a mix of unwillingness, jealousy, and an expression of disbelief: "Don't do that!!!"

"That's it, that's the expression I've always wanted to see!" Téa looked down at Rebecca triumphantly, "That look of jealousy towards me!"

Yugi, Tristan, and Joey, standing by, also felt extremely embarrassed watching the "Facial Expression Battle" between the two women.

Although Téa had only said that she "often went to Yugi's house to play" from beginning to end, Rebecca's expression was entirely her own imagination. What Téa hadn't mentioned was that several others also went to Yugi's house to play.

Rebecca thought Téa was going to "cook the raw rice into cooked rice" with Yugi (i.e., seal the deal), but the actual scenario was---

"Alright, alright, that's enough from you two brats."

Mai Valentine rubbed her forehead, separating Téa and Rebecca with a helpless expression. Despite being "love rivals" with a delicate relationship, even after Professor Arthur and Grandpa Muto had finished their farewells, these two were still bickering. Mai Valentine was starting to wonder what kind of affection they were even fighting over.

"If you don't leave soon, everyone else will get impatient waiting for you."

"No, I'm not in a hurry at all." Hayato and Marik sat on the boarding ramp steps, watching the drama with great interest. Ishizu stood beside them, looking helpless. Hayato popped a french fry into his mouth, "I love watching women argue."

"Please save that kind of spectacle for when you're back in Domino City, Mr. Duel King with questionable taste." Mai Valentine retorted, nudging Téa to board the plane, her gaze drifting towards Joey.

A hint of hesitation was on Joey's face; he seemed to have something to say but was struggling to voice it. Tristan and Duke Devlin, standing on either side of Joey, exchanged a sly glance behind him, both grinning mischievously as they simultaneously pushed him forward.

"Woah!" Pushed forward, Joey stumbled two steps. Just as he regained his balance, he realized Mai Valentine, who had been five or six meters away, was now only two or three meters from him.

"What's wrong, Joey?" Mai Valentine smiled alluringly, her delicate hand sweeping a stray lock of hair behind her ear, as if she hadn't seen Tristan and Duke Devlin's actions.

Hearing Mai Valentine's voice, Joey took a deep breath. It seemed he had finally made his resolution. He looked up, no longer evading her gaze, and said to the beautiful woman before him, "Won't you come to Domino City with us, Mai?"

"Nice!" X2

Behind Joey, Duke Devlin and Tristan high-fived, pleased that Joey had finally said something sensible.

Feeling that what he'd said was somewhat awkward and incomplete, Joey quickly added, "Uh, what I mean is, look, Mai, when you came to Domino City before, it was for Battle City. We didn't really get to show you around Domino City, we were just focused on Dueling. But this time in San Francisco, you often accompanied us."

"That's really embarrassing. Even though we're, we're such good friends, I didn't, we didn't get to show you around Domino City."

Watching the tongue-tied Joey awkwardly pull together a rather forced reason to invite her, Mai Valentine's eyes were filled with uncontainable amusement.

"Anyway, anyway," even though he had resolved to say something nice, he found himself at a loss for words when it mattered, having no idea what he was saying. So, giving up, Joey straightforwardly looked into Mai Valentine's amber eyes and asked, "Will you come with me, Mai?"

Meeting Joey's gaze, it was the usually assertive Mai Valentine who first averted her eyes, turning her body away from him.

"No, I won't."

Mai Valentine refused.

Hearing Mai Valentine's refusal, Joey was momentarily stunned, and his spirits dipped. But just then, he heard Mai Valentine's subsequent words.

"My name is Mai Valentine. As a Duelist, my goal is to become a world-class female Professional Duelist to prove to others that women also have the ability to reach the top."

Turning sideways to Joey, Mai Valentine suddenly introduced herself, just like at Duelist Kingdom when she introduced herself to Yugi, not looking at Joey who stood right beside Yugi.

"Here in America, there are more frequent Professional Duelist tournaments than in Japan. To achieve my goal, it's more suitable for me to stay here. Otherwise, giving up on my dream without even trying would be too much of a pity."

"However, if there comes a day, as a celebration for achieving my goal, or perhaps as comfort for me if I fail to achieve it, I wonder if there will be someone willing to take me on a stroll through the streets of Domino City?"

"As for me, I quite like places like parks."

Turning her head, Mai Valentine looked at Joey, revealing a bright and charming smile, and, uncharacteristically like a young girl, playfully winked.

The disappointment on Joey's face transformed into a radiant smile: "Oh! This tour guide mission accepted by Joey-dono is valid forever!"

"Plus, I'm a local of Domino City. Taking you to every single park is no problem at all."

------Not very good at romance scenes------

All the way, Joey kept a foolish grin. Even when he was "turtled" (i.e., stalled or unable to attack) multiple times by Red-Eyes Black Dragon, Gilti-Gearfried the Magical Steel Knight, and Demon Dragon during a time-killing Duel with Hayato, he surprisingly smiled peacefully throughout.

"Honestly, I don't understand it at all. What's going on with Joey? Has he made any actual progress with Mai Valentine?"

After Marik manually shuffled his Deck, he placed the cards back on the table, drew the top card, and asked Hayato.

"They haven't even confirmed their relationship or anything, so why is that guy grinning like an idiot?"

Hayato also spread his hands: "It's hard for me to explain this to you, three-year-old. After all, I'm just a Card Player with no emotions."

"Also, in Chain to your previous draw, I activate Mind Crush, sending the card you just drew to the Graveyard."

Marik, with dead fish eyes, spread out the Lava Golem he had just added to his Hand, along with several other cards in his Hand: "Why don't you just send me to the Graveyard directly? This game is unplayable."

"Mm-hmm, good game, that was a truly enjoyable Duel." Because of Marik's forfeit, even though it wasn't a Duel conducted with Duel Disks, Hayato still received 500 DP from the System's Settlement, and he smiled as he tidied up the cards on the Field.

"You're the only one who enjoyed it, brother-in-law, aren't you?" Marik grumbled, his gaze darting to his sister, Ishizu, who was sitting on the other side of the cabin, chatting with Téa, a little distance away from their "dueling zone." He lowered his voice and leaned into Hayato's ear: "Speaking of which, brother-in-law, how far have you and my sister gotten?"

"Did you hit a home run yet? Or are you at third base? Second base?" Marik's face was full of gossip, "Surely you haven't even reached first base, right?"

"Stop spouting nonsense all day. Your sister and I are perfectly innocent."

"Heh heh, brother-in-law, don't play innocent." Marik's smile turned exceedingly lewd. It was hard to connect him with the former Rare Hunters leader whose Facial Expression Battle could scare children into tears; he looked exactly like a pimp when he laughed. "Look at my sister's chest, look at my sister's waist, look at my sister's butt. Do you dare say you haven't had any thoughts?"

As Marik spoke, his voice slightly out of control, Hayato's eyebrow twitched. He said sternly, "Marik, isn't it a bit inappropriate to talk about your sister like that?"

"What did I say, brother-in-law? Isn't it normal for men to be lustful? And my sister has such a great figure that even the pickiest person wouldn't complain, alright?" Marik completely ignored the subtle look Hayato gave him and continued on his own, "Although my sister is quite rigid, and her cooking is terrible, her personality is very gentle and considerate. You really need to seize the opportunity and pursue her."

"But her rigid personality is also a problem. If you really can't stand it, I can introduce you to two hot girls I met while street racing. They have great figures and are really open-minded. Why don't you take out your phone and jot down their numbe---"

"Marik?"

Hearing the voice from behind him, Marik's body instantly froze. He mechanically turned his head to look behind him, finding Ishizu, smiling as gracefully as ever. However, from Ishizu's gentle expression, Marik felt a chilling, bone-deep coldness.

It was bloodlust, absolutely bloodlust!

"Hayato, I just remembered there were a few things I wanted to say to Marik. Briefly interrupting your Duel should be fine, right?"

Despite her expression remaining unchanged, Ishizu's gentle smile held undeniable bloodlust when facing Marik, yet her demeanor transformed into pure warmth and shyness when she faced Hayato.

"Ah, completely fine! Marik and I just finished our Duel." Completely ignoring Marik's pleading expressions and winks for help, Hayato cheerfully patted Marik's shoulder, "You should manage your relationship with your sister well, Marik-san~"

No one knew what Marik experienced after Ishizu dragged him away. All they knew was that he returned to his seat with a completely petrified expression, which lasted until the plane arrived over Domino City.

Although it was a jet plane, since Kaiba had used Blue-Eyes White Dragon as its external design, he naturally spared no expense, packing it with all sorts of advanced tech, including the miraculous "vertical takeoff and landing" function. Its landing was exceptionally smooth, almost like riding an Airship.

Stepping off the plane, Hayato casually turned off his phone's airplane mode, which had been on. However, what was supposed to be a simple gesture turned into Hayato seeing a barrage of messages instantly popping up on his phone.

These messages were not spam; without exception, they were all sent by the same contact. The topmost message clearly displayed---

"Hayato, your dad and I are back! We'll be at Domino City airport in half an hour. Aren't you surprised and delighted?"

Looking at the send time, it was indeed about half an hour ago.

Joey, who was following Hayato off the plane, heard a series of "ding-dong," "ding-dong," "ding-dong" sounds from Hayato's phone as it received messages. He asked, somewhat puzzled, "Was that your phone, Hayato? What happened?"

"Hm, it's quite amazing, and a big coincidence," Hayato said, looking at a black speck in the distance that was gradually enlarging into the shape of a plane. He helplessly pointed in that direction, "My parents seem to have returned to the country. They're on that plane behind us, probably?"

In the waiting hall, Hayato waited for the plane to land. Yugi and Joey's group didn't leave but stayed with Hayato; it was also their first time seeing Hayato's parents.

Speaking of which, Hayato hadn't seen his mother for quite a long time. The last time was two years ago, right after he transmigrated to this world. And on the very next day, his mother went abroad to find his father, whom he had never met, for a romantic getaway.

After his mother's month-long annual leave, her company sent her abroad again for business. Because of this, she hadn't returned to Domino City for two years, only occasionally sending Hayato emails, photos, and money transfers to his bank account.

However, according to the recent string of messages, it seemed that all their overseas business had been resolved. His mother's business trip was finally over, allowing her to return home, and his diplomat father also seemed to have completed his work and handover, being transferred back to the country. Thus, both returned together.

Through the waiting hall's glass, Hayato watched as the plane, presumably carrying his parents, drew closer and closer to the ground. Its landing gear extended, and it touched down on the long runway, taxiing.

Not long after, at the arrival gate, Hayato saw his parents, but---

"Heh heh, a plane, is it? Possessing excellent power and speed, it's perfectly suited as a means of travel."

"Ah, sir, please don't block the doorway. Please move further inside."

"Hoh hoh, are you ordering me? Ordering Hiroyuki Kobayashi?" The man, 195 centimeters tall, stood motionless in the center of the airport shuttle bus with his arms crossed over his chest. "The airport is quite spacious, isn't it? Drive!"

"Don't cause trouble for others, you idiot!" Beside the man, a woman, seemingly his spouse, tugged at his earlobe, forcibly pulling him off the bus. The man, with a face full of indignation, exclaimed, "Yaroh, to treat Hiroyuki Kobayashi like this! This humiliation, worse than rat droppings in a toilet, I will surely repay!"

"You're the one making a fool of yourself, you moron!" The woman angrily released her grip. "Our child is so much like you, I'm starting to worry about how he'll find a girlfriend later."

"Heh heh, for that Hayato kid, let alone finding a girlfriend, he wouldn't even have a close girlfriend. This is my profound understanding of him, as his father, having inherited my personality!"

"I wasn't complimenting you!"

The bickering couple easily attracted the attention of others, especially the man's tall stature and his Dio-esque manner of speaking, which was strikingly similar to Hayato's. Joey asked Hayato, "Hayato, I say, those are your parents, aren't they?"

"No, those are social terrorists I don't know."

Thanks for the 5000-point reward from "Hayato's Daddy," very much appreciated.

Thanks for the 100-point reward from "Hayato 20170604063239597."

Recommendation for a good card game in the vicinity.

The third part of this chapter was a bit rushed, but it was mainly to introduce the protagonist's parents, and to quote one of your sayings, "If it's a Kobayashi, shouldn't they use Dragonmaid?"

PS: Speaking of which, today is quite a coincidence! February 22, 2022, is the twenty-second day of the first lunar month, and it's also a Tuesday!

PS2: Actually, in my old outline, I planned to kill off the protagonist's parents via a flight accident and write a bunch of melodramatic family drama.

For example, the protagonist's father was named Hiroyuki Miya and married into his mother Sumire Kobayashi's family. And the protagonist's mother's father also married in, with his original surname being Ichimonji. So the protagonist also had the former name Hayato Ichimonji. These strange settings would only be understood by a small fraction of "Kamen Rider fans."

However, now, all of these are discarded settings, please ignore them.

(end of chapter)

Chapter 484: What Self-Respecting Dragonmaid Deck Carries Little Blue?

"Duel!" X2

[Hayato: 4000 LP, hand 5]

[Hiroyuki Kobayashi: 4000 LP, hand 5]

"Then the first turn is mine, Hayato!" Hiroyuki Kobayashi arrogantly seized the first turn, and with a flamboyant gesture, drew a card from his deck.

At this point, some might be wondering if they missed a chapter.

One hour earlier, at the airport.

"Oh, you're back, Hayato." Hiroyuki Kobayashi said calmly, sitting on a bench in the arrival hall with one leg crossed over the other, hands clasped together on his knees.

Hayato retorted, "Wouldn't 'I'm home' be more appropriate in this situation?"

As he spoke, Hayato cast a helpless glance at his mother, Sumire Kobayashi, who returned it with an equally helpless expression.

"By my reckoning, it's been about ten years since we last met, hasn't it? The last time was when you were ten, I believe." Hiroyuki Kobayashi looked Hayato up and down, a smug smile on his face. "You've certainly grown taller, but in my opinion, you haven't matured enough."

"I suppose you're still like you were as a child, unable to make a single friend, let alone have any close female acquaintances, hm ha ha ha!"

Laughing to himself, Hiroyuki Kobayashi turned his head and met Yugi's gaze. The tall, burly Hiroyuki Kobayashi, with his fierce eyes, exerted considerable pressure on Yugi, who involuntarily took half a step back.

"What are you staring at? Am I that handsome?"

"Hey, Dad, that's enough." Hayato stepped in front of Yugi, blocking Hiroyuki Kobayashi's view. "Yugi is my friend, and so are Joey and the others."

"Oh, Hayato's friends?" Upon hearing this, Sumire Kobayashi's gaze swept over the people behind Hayato, instantly locking onto Téa and Ishizu. After giving them special attention, she offered Yugi a gentle smile. "You must be Yugi, right? Thank you all for taking care of Hayato."

"Ah, no, no, it's actually Hayato who has always been helping us," Yugi said, waving his hands bashfully.

Unlike Sumire Kobayashi, Hiroyuki Kobayashi, upon hearing Hayato say that Yugi and the others were his friends, showed a completely shocked expression. "Ba-Baka na!?"

"That brat Hayato actually made so many friends, even women? How is that possible?!"

I just made some friends, what's with that expression?! Hayato internally complained, ignoring his suddenly dejected father, and began introducing his friends to his mother.

"Yugi, Téa, Joey, and also Tristan and Duke Devlin, they are all my classmates from school. However, our friendship goes beyond just classmates; it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say we have the bonds of comrades who've faced life-and-death situations together."

"Although Tristan and Joey look a bit like delinquents, they're both very kind people."

"That last part wasn't necessary!" Joey complained, as he and Yugi greeted Sumire Kobayashi.

"Then there's Marik and Ishizu, they—"

After introducing Yugi and the others, just as Hayato was about to introduce Marik and Ishizu to his mother, before he could even finish their names, Ishizu stepped forward herself and introduced herself to Sumire Kobayashi. "Hello, Auntie. I am Ishizu, Hayato's friend. This is my younger brother, Marik."

Marik felt strange standing behind Ishizu. What was his sister suddenly doing, proactively introducing herself?

"Oh, Ishizu. It's good to meet you too." A peculiar glint flashed in Sumire Kobayashi's eyes. Although Ishizu hadn't said anything explicit, as a fellow woman, she understood Ishizu's intentions, and an exceptionally gentle smile bloomed on her face.

She had previously worried that Hayato, whose personality sometimes mirrored her husband's, might not find a girlfriend in the future. Now, she realized there was no need to worry at all.

Yugi and Joey accompanied Grandpa Muto home, and Ishizu left to return to her post at the Egyptian Artifacts Traveling Exhibition. Hayato returned home with his parents, bringing Marik, the tag-along, with them.

Sumire Kobayashi was very welcoming to Marik, Ishizu's younger brother, staying at their home. After all, in her eyes, Marik was a very cute child, quite handsome, and he was the brother of Ishizu, with whom Hayato had a rather ambiguous relationship. Besides being a bit too "two-dimensional" he had no other flaws, and the guest room at home was empty anyway.

However, Hiroyuki Kobayashi had a different opinion on the matter.

"Hmph, I've always hated people who stay at other people's homes, especially when a man moves into my house." Hiroyuki Kobayashi's disapproval of Marik previously staying at their home was considerable, so much so that he put on a scowl.

"'Marik the Intruder,' 'Letters from the Past,' 'Youth Spent with Marik' — I detest plots like that."

"No, what you're saying has veered off into some really weird territory, and our family doesn't have a setting where our ancestors have all been gentlemen, does it?" Hayato retorted, temporarily placing the luggage he was carrying on the living room carpet.

Although he put on an uncompromising stance and his tone was unyielding, brooking no arguments, perhaps due to their father-son bond, Hayato sensed that Hiroyuki Kobayashi wasn't actually that opposed to Marik moving in.

However, perhaps it was because he had previously claimed that "Hayato couldn't make friends," only for Hayato to turn around and present a large group of friends to his parents. Due to this, Hiroyuki Kobayashi felt his paternal authority had been completely undermined, so he wanted to reclaim some authority in such a completely trivial matter?

Surely, he wouldn't be that petty, would he?

Looking at his father's arrogant demeanor, Hayato found it hard to deny his suspicions.

"So, how can we get Marik to stay?"

Seeing Hayato's more humble stance, Hiroyuki Kobayashi smirked triumphantly. "Hmph hmph, need I even say more about such things? Of course, we'll decide it with the currently very popular Duel Monsters!"

"When it comes to Duel Monsters prowess, I've been unbeatable throughout London during my business trips these past years. If it weren't for work, I would have long since participated in that KC Cup tournament hosted by KaibaCorp! The Champion would undoubtedly be me, Hiroyuki Kobayashi!"

"Who knows what kind of worthless fodder monster that current Duel King is, but if I were to face him, defeating him would probably be easier for me than snapping a twig with my finger, hm ha ha ha ha!"

Looking at Hiroyuki Kobayashi's triumphant expression, Hayato and Marik exchanged glances, each seeing a hint of doubt in the other's eyes, and both fell silent.

Does this old man really keep up with Duel Monsters?

However, since his father had made such a request, Hayato naturally wouldn't refuse. "In that case, there's no helping it. I just need to defeat you, Dad, right? Sounds easy enough."

"Ho ho, to display such arrogance towards your own father, it seems you're quite confident in Duel Monsters." Hiroyuki Kobayashi said, opening the luggage Hayato had set aside earlier, and took out a Duel Disk to put on.

During Battle City, to limit the quality of participating Duelists and prevent an influx of weak fodder monsters who merely served as easy targets for puzzle cards, which would have allowed even weaker Duelists to collect puzzle cards and thus lower the prestige of the Top 8, KaibaCorp had severely restricted the eligibility for purchasing Duel Disks.

However, after Battle City concluded, KaibaCorp widely distributed and sold the meticulously developed Duel Disks to recover development costs. The rigid restrictions on Duel Disk purchases were removed, and anyone with money could buy several. After the KC Cup incident, in which KaibaCorp counter-attacked and defeated the rival Schroeder Corp, KaibaCorp's Duel Disk sales business even expanded into Europe, a territory previously belonging to the Schroeder Corp.

However, the Duel Disk in Hiroyuki Kobayashi's hand, judging by its design, was not a KaibaCorp Duel Disk, but rather one previously issued by the Schroeder Corp. Its design was rounder compared to the sharp, blade-like Kaiba-type, and the main body of the Duel Disk was not modular, but rather the retractable type used by Duel Academy in the future GX era.

Furthermore, compared to the extremely durable Kaiba-type Duel Disk, which was made with genuine, nearly loss-making amounts of alloy materials, the Schroeder-type Duel Disk was made of plastic, rubber, resin, and a metallic paint finish. While lightweight, its cost was that painted areas easily chipped, unpainted areas felt very plasticky and even had mold lines, and more exaggeratedly, the unseen back of the Duel Disk featured numerous hollowed-out sections and "dead" screw holes.

It was clear that his father's Duel Disk hadn't been bought recently, but rather before KaibaCorp defeated the Schroeder Corp, and judging by the wear on the detailed paintwork, it had certainly been used for some time.

Although the Duel Disk models were different, KaibaCorp and the Schroeder Corp hadn't engaged in malicious competition by making their Duel Disks incompatible with each other. Thus, when Hayato and Hiroyuki Kobayashi took out their respective decks and inserted them into their Duel Disks to activate them, the link was quite stable.

And so, with Marik's ability to stay at Hayato's home on the line, the father-son Duel between Hiroyuki Kobayashi and Hayato Kobayashi began, leading to the opening scene.

"Hmph hmph, I've really drawn a good hand of cards, and the card I draw this turn is also quite excellent." Hiroyuki Kobayashi was very satisfied with his hand, from which he drew a card. "So, are you ready to be taught a lesson, Hayato!"

"Let me show you my magnificent, powerful, and perfectly elegant deck!" With a spirited shout, Hiroyuki Kobayashi played a card from his hand. "I Summon in Defense Position, (Dragonmaid Chamber Dragonmaid)!"

Under Hayato's astonished gaze, a phantom room appeared out of thin air on Hiroyuki Kobayashi's Field. Judging by its decor, it seemed to be a bedroom within a luxurious mansion. Inside this opulent bedroom, a blonde girl in a black dress was holding a feather duster, sweeping away dust. On the floor nearby, a bucket and mop were placed, confirming her identity as a cleaning maid.

However, while she was indeed wearing a maid outfit, no one would truly consider the girl before them as just an ordinary maid found in any wealthy family. The reason was the long black tail protruding from above her buttocks, clearly a Dragon-Type tail. Furthermore, the black Dragon-Type horns extending from her blonde hair on top of her head further confirmed her identity—she was unequivocally a Dragon!

As if sensing everyone's gaze, the girl turned around and met Hayato's eyes, her cheeks slightly flushed. After leaving her cleaning tools in the now-disappearing bedroom, she respectfully bowed deeply to her master in a maid's salute. Then, she stood gracefully on Hiroyuki Kobayashi's Field, her hands clasped over her abdomen, dignified and elegant, presenting herself as a professional maid.

[(Dragonmaid Chamber Dragonmaid) [Dragon/Effect] Level 4 / DARK / ATK 500 / DEF 1800]

"Oh my, no matter how many times I see her, Little Black is truly elegant." Sumire Kobayashi said with a smile, looking at the monster Hiroyuki Kobayashi Summoned.

Marik, standing to the side, stated with a straight face, "I'm good."

"You degenerate, what are you 'good' for?" Hayato retorted, but honestly, the fact that his father's deck was a (Dragonmaid) deck truly surprised him beyond expectation.

As explained many times before, card players' preferences are quite diverse and cover a wide range of tastes. However, the three most mainstream ones are "Waifu Card," "Dragon Enthusiast," and "Mecha Fan." The (Drytron) deck that Hayato recently acquired encompassed both "Dragon Enthusiast" and "Mecha Fan," while the (Dragonmaid) deck before him was the perfect combination of "Waifu Card" and "Dragon Enthusiast."

Although its strength wasn't too high compared to other Meta Decks, due to Duelists' preferences, the (Dragonmaid) deck's popularity was quite high. Furthermore, with the assistance of (Guardragon) that "couldn't protect its big brother" (referring to Guardragons getting banned or limited, unable to support big boss monsters), it still possessed considerable battle power.

As for the last combination of "Waifu Card" and "Mecha Fan"? That would naturally be the famous (Sky Striker) Archetype that "only affects women's sword drawing speed." Unfortunately, that deck primarily focuses on Link Summoning, which means it has no chance of appearing in the DM (Duel Monsters) era.

Hiroyuki Kobayashi interpreted Hayato's thoughts as astonishment, and he said triumphantly, hands on his hips, "Hmph hmph, the (Dragonmaid) deck is the ultimate deck, perfectly combining human intellect with Dragon-Type power. It's perfectly suited to be my, Hiroyuki Kobayashi's, deck. And it is thanks to their formidable power that I have defeated every single opponent throughout London."

"Although (Dragonmaid Chamber Dragonmaid) might not seem very powerful, she will be the activation point for my deck's full operation."

As he spoke, Hiroyuki Kobayashi took out his deck. "When (Dragonmaid Chamber Dragonmaid) is successfully summoned or Special Summoned, I activate its effect: I add one (Dragonmaid) Spell Card or Trap Card from my deck to my hand."

"I add (Dragonmaid Changeover) to my hand, then I activate it!"

"This card allows me to send to the Graveyard Fusion Material Monsters, determined by a Dragon-Type Fusion Monster, from my hand or Field, and then Fusion Summon that Dragon-Type Fusion Monster!" Hiroyuki Kobayashi activated the card he just searched from his Field, and at the same time sent two cards from his hand to the Graveyard. "I use (Dragonmaid Flamme) and (Dragonmaid Laundry Dragonmaid) from my hand as Fusion Material,"

"The Fusion Materials are one (Dragonmaid) monster + 1 Level 5 or higher Dragon-Type monster! Fusion Summon my beloved maid!"

"Dark wings soaring through light and glory, the perfectly elegant Dragonmaid, come forth, my Ace Card, my Soul!"

"(Dragonmaid Sheou)!"

Under the effect of (Dragonmaid Changeover), a Dragon soaring through the air was Fusion Summoned onto Hiroyuki Kobayashi's Field. However, rather than marveling at the Summon of a powerful monster, Hayato was more concerned with something else—

(Dragonmaid Laundry Dragonmaid)? Little Blue!

Astonished, "Who even plays a (Dragonmaid) deck with Little Blue these days?!"

(end of chapter)

Chapter 485: If You Are a Dragon, That's Fine Too

The Dragonmaid archetype has a popularity that transcends its raw power, but within the Dragonmaid archetype, there's one particular card that enjoys a unique kind of renown.

That is the (Chamber Dragonmaid), colloquially known as Little Blue, a card that, despite its name, rarely appears in a Dragonmaid Deck.

When you're playing a Dragonmaid Deck, if you go for a first turn board establishment, aiming to show off your targeted milling specialty by Summoning Little Blue, only to find your invincible (Raigeki), (Harpie's Feather Duster), and (Infinite Impermanence) have all been sent to the Graveyard, you might ask yourself why you ever included Little Blue in your Deck.

Hayato, of course, had also played a Dragonmaid Deck in the past. In fact, when he first got it, he completely ignored advice, declaring "Chinese people play Chinese Dragons!" while putting three copies of Little Blue into his Deck.

However, when Hayato Normal Summoned Little Blue and discovered his invincible (Super Polymerization) and (Red-Eyes Fusion) were sent to the Graveyard, he had an epiphany. He then dispatched his Little Blue to a Lightsworn Deck, where it became an invincible Lightsworn Maid.

If, one day, Little Blue were to become a Forbidden Card, countless Dragonmaid Players would likely weep with joy, for it would mean Little Blue had actually been developed into something powerful.

The probability of such a thing happening, however, is about the same as the national football team qualifying for the World Cup.

Amidst Hayato's silent grumbling, the red Dragon, chosen as Fusion Material and sent to the Graveyard by (Dragonmaid Changeover), shielded a somewhat clumsy-looking blue-haired maid who was clutching it, their combined forms erupting into light.

Subsequently, a beautiful Dragon with a slender, elegant physique appeared beside the [Royal Chamber Dragonmaid].

Unlike powerful Dragons like (Blue-Eyes White Dragon) and (Red-Eyes Black Dragon) that exude raw destructive power, the beautiful Dragon before them had soft, graceful lines, making even Hayato, who wasn't a furry fan, marvel at its beauty.

Its white belly and neck, set against the black of the rest of its body, gleamed like pristine skin revealed beneath sheer black tights. Red lines acted as a transition between the white and black, adding a touch of allure to the Dragon's figure, especially its emerald green Dragon eyes, which were truly the "dotting the eyes on a painted dragon." What a beauty, no, what a beautiful Dragon.

[Dragonmaid Lumina] [Level 10/LIGHT]

[Dragon/Fusion/Effect]

[3500/2000]

"Impressive, Summoning two Monsters on the first turn! Not only is there a Level 10 Fusion Monster, but its Attack is even higher than (Blue-Eyes White Dragon)!" Marik, watching from the living room sofa, praised Hiroyuki Kobayashi's play.

Hearing this, Hiroyuki Kobayashi wore a rather pleased expression, but his words remained arrogant: "Hmph, this is nothing yet, not even my full power. But since this is a test of my child's growth, I'll just enjoy myself a little."

"I Set three Cards in my Back Row. End Turn."

[Hiroyuki Kobayashi: 4000 LP, Hand 0]

[Dragonmaid Lumina] [ATK 3500]

[Royal Chamber Dragonmaid] [DEF 1800]

[Set Card] x3

"Hmph, how about that, Hayato? Are you afraid after seeing my board development?" Hiroyuki Kobayashi said proudly. "Not just anyone can defeat my [Dragonmaid Lumina]. Her Attack is a massive 3500, even Seto Kaiba himself couldn't surpass that."

Hayato, however, looked unconcerned. "Don't speak so absolutely. It's only 3500 Attack. As long as it's not infinite, there's always a possibility of surpassing it."

"Hmph, then try it."

Hayato glanced at his Hand, smiled, and placed his fingers on his Deck. "Then my turn begins! Draw!"

"At this moment, my [Dragonmaid Lumina] on the Field can Activate its Effect!"

Hiroyuki Kobayashi Activated the Effect during Hayato's Standby Phase, pointing his finger at his [Dragonmaid Lumina]. "Once during each player's Standby Phase, I can Special Summon one Dragon-Type Monster from my Hand or Graveyard with a Level of 9 or less."

Hayato, who had also played a Dragonmaid Deck before, wasn't surprised by [Dragonmaid Lumina]'s Effect. After all, as mentioned earlier, while the Dragonmaid Deck is famous, its raw power can't compare to Meta Decks like (Eldlich), (Fallen of Albaz), or (Thunder Dragon Colossus); it's merely a top-tier casual Deck.

Even a peak Dragonmaid with a God Hand can only establish a field with [Dragonmaid Lumina] or (Hieratic Seal of the Heavenly Spheres) and Set Trap Cards. In the DM (Duel Monsters) era, [Dragonmaid Lumina] became the only viable option.

Playing tricks during phases like the Standby Phase and Battle Phase is the Dragonmaid archetype's specialty.

On Hiroyuki Kobayashi's Field, [Dragonmaid Lumina] unfurled its wings, its black Dragon's Wings casting a bright yet soft light, like the gentle warmth of a newborn sun, awakening a lazy Dragonmaid slumbering in the Graveyard.

"Mmm~"

In a sunlit room, a blue-haired maid stood by a floor-to-ceiling window, wearing waterproof wader boots and carrying a basket of freshly washed laundry to be hung. She stretched, then clumsily spilled the clothes all over the floor, her long, fluffy Dragon tail drooping in disappointment behind her.

[(Chamber Dragonmaid)] [Level 2/WATER]

[Dragon/Effect]

[500/1600]

"He Summoned Little Blue?" Hayato's eyebrows rose, and he couldn't help but look at his father with new respect.

Not only did he include Little Blue in his Dragonmaid Deck, but he was also brave enough to Summon Little Blue. Wasn't he worried about accidentally Milling powerful Cards into the Graveyard?

No, he'd forgotten something. Here, every Duelist was a master of the Heart of the Cards. Little Blue, which often caused trouble in a real card environment, could probably genuinely achieve targeted milling here. If so, Little Blue would be far stronger than he imagined.

With that thought, Hayato's gaze towards his father became somewhat serious.

"All Dragonmaid Low-Level Monsters have a Special Ability that can Activate when they are Summoned or Special Summoned," Hiroyuki Kobayashi explained. "(Chamber Dragonmaid) is no exception; she has the ability to Send the top three Cards of my Deck to the Graveyard."

As Hiroyuki Kobayashi spoke, he placed his fingers on his Duel Disk and drew three Cards with a flourish, displaying them to Hayato. "For other Decks, this Effect would be quite niche, but since [Dragonmaid Lumina] has an Effect to Revive Dragon-Type monsters from the Graveyard, this Effect is simply perfect for a Dragonmaid Deck!"

The smug Hiroyuki Kobayashi completely missed the moment Hayato's serious expression abruptly turned to stunned confusion as the three Cards were revealed. Unaware, he continued to babble to himself: "Hmph, (Chamber Dragonmaid) is truly amazing with her ability to Send powerful Monsters to the Graveyard! I'm so delighted I could burst into song,"

"But before I get too high, let me just confirm what Cards were Sent to Graveyard, shall I?"

As he spoke, Hiroyuki Kobayashi smilingly flipped his Cards over, then his face suddenly changed: "W-what?! Impossible?!"

The Cards in his Hand were none other than three gleefully grinning Chronos's... (Pot of Greed).

Hiroyuki Kobayashi stared blankly at Little Blue on his Field, who was still tidying up the large pile of clothes that had been so carefully washed, only to fall to the floor and require re-washing. Sensing Hiroyuki Kobayashi's gaze, she put on a teary-eyed expression: "Waaah~"

Sumire Kobayashi, who was watching, was amused by the dramatic scene on the Field and said helplessly, "It really is clumsy Little Blue. Now all three (Pot of Greed) have been wasted. What a shame."

"Grr, you idiot!" Hiroyuki Kobayashi was furious, but there was nothing he could do. After all, Summoning Little Blue was his own choice. If he had known this would happen, he should have Summoned the other (Dragonmaid Flamme) from his Graveyard.

Resigned, he Sent the three (Pot of Greed) from his Hand to the Graveyard, and Hayato's Turn resumed.

"What a Blind Mill, three (Pot of Greed) at once! Truly a hero among Blind Mills. What was I even taking seriously just now?" Hayato genuinely lamented. Even in a different world, Little Blue was still Little Blue. "Then, during my Main Phase, I Activate the Spell Card, (Cyber Emergency)."

As Hayato inserted a Card from his Hand into his Duel Disk's Spell & Trap Zone, (Cyber Emergency), depicting a group of flying Dragon-like Monsters pursuing a fighter jet, appeared on the Field.

Based solely on the Card Art, Hiroyuki Kobayashi couldn't tell what Archetype the Card belonged to, but Hayato had already begun to explain: "The Effect of (Cyber Emergency) is to Add one (Cyber Dragon) or one Machine-Type, LIGHT Attribute Monster that cannot be Normal Summoned from my Deck to my Hand."

"Oh? (Cyber Dragon)? I didn't expect you to be using Cyber Style Cards!" Although Hiroyuki Kobayashi seemed completely uninterested in information related to Battle City, the KC Cup, or other Duel Monsters news, he surprisingly knew about Cyber Style. "If I recall correctly, Cyber Style is quite adept at one-turn aggressive play."

"Back in London, I once encountered a Cyber Style Duelist who, on their first turn, managed to Summon a (Cyber Twin Dragon) with 5600 Attack that could attack twice! Luckily, I was one step ahead."

"According to that guy, Cyber Style also has an even stronger Monster called (Cyber End Dragon) or something, but he wasn't qualified to Summon it. Anyway, it was incredibly powerful." He paused, then Hiroyuki Kobayashi made up his mind. "Then, I'll have to stop you."

"I Activate the second Effect of my [Dragonmaid Lumina] on the Field! When my Opponent Activates a Spell, Trap, or Monster Effect, I can Chain to it, Negate the activation, and Destroy it!"

Upon hearing Hiroyuki Kobayashi's command, [Dragonmaid Lumina] hesitated for a moment, but then unfurled its Dragon's Wings again and flew up, transforming into a luminous arrow that struck Hayato's (Cyber Emergency) on the Field, piercing through it and Destroying it.

"It has an omni-Counter Effect!" Marik exclaimed, surprised that [Dragonmaid Lumina] was not only beautiful but also so powerful. "It's practically a (Solemn Warning) that doesn't require paying Life Points and has no restrictions!"

"Not yet, not yet! [Dragonmaid Lumina]'s Effect also has a follow-up process: after Activating this Effect, [Dragonmaid Lumina] returns to my Deck, and then its human form takes the field!" Hiroyuki Kobayashi played a Card onto the Field, waving his hand forward. "Transformation Tactic, come forth, [Dragonmaid Steward]!"

The luminous arrow that [Dragonmaid Lumina] had transformed into returned to Hiroyuki Kobayashi's Field after piercing (Cyber Emergency). However, it seemed that Negating the Card's Activation had drained some of her strength, as [Dragonmaid Lumina] shifted from her Dragon form to her Human Form.

In a traditional and classic black maid outfit, with a long skirt that trailed to her feet and a pristine white apron over her front, her hands, still covered in un-shed Dragon scales, were clasped over her abdomen. Even with a slight effort, [Dragonmaid Steward] still performed an elegant maid's bow for Hayato, whom she was meeting for the first time.

[Dragonmaid Steward] [Level 9/LIGHT]

[Dragon/Fusion/Effect]

[3000/2000]

Compared to [Dragonmaid Lumina] in her Dragon form, [Dragonmaid Steward]'s Attack had decreased to the level of (Blue-Eyes White Dragon), and her Effects had also changed.

However, before Hiroyuki Kobayashi could even boast, Hayato Sent a Card from his Hand to the Graveyard, and the (Cyber Emergency) Card, which had been pierced by the luminous arrow, surprisingly regenerated as if by Time Reversal?!

"What?!"

Hiroyuki Kobayashi's surprised voice reached [Dragonmaid Steward]'s ears. The perfect and graceful maid steward couldn't help but sigh, thinking: That's why I hesitated just now. To have my Effect baited out so easily, how disgraceful.

"The second Effect of (Cyber Emergency) is this: when this Card's activation is Negated by an Opponent's Duelist and it is Sent to Graveyard, I can Discard one Card from my Hand, then Add (Cyber Emergency) from my Graveyard to my Hand, and Activate it again."

Hayato's lips curled into a smirk. "In other words, you just blindly used your precious Counter for nothing. A complete waste, because it was utterly meaningless! Useless! Useless!"

"Tch, such a troublesome Effect." Hiroyuki Kobayashi frowned, but then relaxed slightly, recalling his Set Cards. "Even so, what can you do? It's just adding a (Cyber Dragon) to your Hand. In terms of power, (Cyber Dragon) is no match for my Dragonmaids."

Just as he finished speaking, Hiroyuki Kobayashi saw Hayato Draw a Card that automatically popped out of his Deck. A strange premonition suddenly stirring in his heart, he subconsciously repeated, "You added a (Cyber Dragon) to your Hand, right?"

"Well..." Hayato glanced at the Card in his Hand and, using Rule Bending, said, "Actually, (Cyber Emergency) can also be called 'Drytron Emergency'."

"I Activate the Effect of [Drytron - Gamma Cygni], which was added to my Hand! I Tribute [Drytron - Beta Cygni] from my Hand to Special Summon [Drytron - Gamma Cygni] from my Hand!"

On Hayato's Field, shining yet non-blinding starlight gathered, and a phantom of a highly technological Machine Dragon, bearing massive propulsion equipment on its back, materialized.

"Starlight flashes! Unknown power transforms into a Draco riding the swift wind upwards! Special Summon! Descend, [Drytron - Gamma Cygni]!"

(end of chapter)