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Chapter 435: In Head-to-Head Attacks, the Left Side Always Loses
He used an external force to increase his ATK during the battle in a very unsportsmanlike manner, and at the same time, he restricted Judai from using Set Cards. The Purity of Dark Magician has greatly decreased.
However, it was also a fact that he defeated the **E•HERO Blade Edge** that Judai had painstakingly Summoned last turn.
[Judai: 4000→3100 LP]
"Ugh, that hurt," Judai rubbed his chest and exclaimed, "Even though it was only 900 Battle Damage, it felt more painful than being hit by a charging rhinoceros."
"Or is this the power of the Duelist Spirit of a Legendary Duelist?"
Yugi watched Dark Magician return to his field and heard Judai's exclamation. He smiled and said, "How about it, can you still continue, Judai-kun?"
"Yeah, I'm far from done. I won't give up the Duel that easily," Judai said with a smile. "Besides, heroes aren't defeated by one or two losses."
"Although because of the effect of **Dark Magician Enhance**, I can't chain to your Spell/Trap Card activations, Mr. Yugi, it's fine if 'my monster is destroyed'."
As he spoke, a Set Card in Judai's Spell/Trap Zone, which had been firmly held down by the power of Dark Magician Girl, broke free from the magical power and released a phantom soul. It was the **E•HERO Blade Edge** that had just been destroyed. After the released soul of **Blade Edge** ascended into the sky, it transformed into a giant 'H', looking as if it were projected into the sky by a light.
"The effect of **Hero Signal** is, when a monster on my field is Battle Destroyed and Sent to the Graveyard, I can Special Summon one Level 4 or lower **E•HERO** monster from my Hand or Deck," Judai said, searching a card from his Deck and placed it on his Duel Disk. "I Special Summon **E•HERO Avian** from my Deck!"
A black dot appeared in the center of the white letter 'H'. Accompanied by the whistling wind, the black dot gradually enlarged and landed on Judai's field. It turned out to be another **E•HERO** monster. Covered in green feathers all over its body, with claws on its hands and feet, and large wings on its back, this was the Hero of the Sky—**E•HERO Avian**.
[**E•HERO Avian**] [3☆/WIND]
[Warrior Type/Normal]
[1000/1000]
It had no special ability, and its ATK/DEF were equally mediocre, without any advantages. But even so, **E•HERO Avian** standing before Judai formed a sufficient defense line, blocking Yugi's **Magician's Robe**, which hadn't attacked yet.
[**E•HERO Avian**] [ATK 1000]
[**Magician's Robe**] [ATK 800]
Yugi felt a little regret, because if it weren't for Judai's **Hero Signal**, **E•HERO Avian** wouldn't have appeared. Next, Judai would have taken a direct attack, and then he could reduce his Life Points to 2300, expanding his advantage.
Although he couldn't destroy **E•HERO Avian**, Yugi wasn't too bothered. After all, the effect of **Swords of Revealing Light** he activated had only been used for one turn. Judai still needed to wait two turns before he could attack him, so it didn't matter even if **Magician's Robe** was currently in Attack Position.
"In that case, I end my turn."
[Yugi: 4200 LP, Hand 0]
[Dark Magician] [ATK 2500]
[**Magician's Robe**] [ATK 800]
[**Swords of Revealing Light**]
"My turn, draw!" Judai drew a card from his Deck, a smile appearing on his face. "Oh, I drew a good card."
"Although **E•HERO Avian** is a Normal Monster, Mr. Hayato said that there are no useless cards in the world, and every card has its use." Judai said, showing the card in his hand. "And precisely because **E•HERO Avian** is a Normal Monster, he can do things other monsters can't!"
Hearing this, **E•HERO Avian** nodded repeatedly.
What's this? Judai has good taste, huh? Seems like he drew some very powerful card? Heh heh, then it's finally my time to shine!
"Activate the Spell Card, **Price of Horse Bone**!"
Huh?!
**E•HERO Avian's** eyes widened as he looked at the Spell Card that appeared behind him.
This is a bit different from what I thought. Shouldn't I be equipped with some invincible Equip Card and then counterattack Dark Magician?!
"The effect of **Price of Horse Bone**, I remember it's..." Yugi recalled for a moment, then suddenly fell silent.
The effect of **Price of Horse Bone** is to Send a monster on your field, other than an Effect Monster, to the Graveyard, and then draw two cards. He could clearly use **Pot of Greed** to draw two cards directly, but instead chose to tribute his own monster. As expected, it's Hayato's style.
What exactly have you been teaching this child, Hayato!
Amidst **E•HERO Avian's** unwillingness and Yugi's inner thoughts, Judai drew two cards, and at the same time, sent the **E•HERO Avian** on his field to the Graveyard.
"Although it seems like I sent the only **E•HERO Avian** on my field to the Graveyard, Mr. Yugi, a hero's temporary departure is just preparation for the appearance of the next hero." Judai said, playing a card from his hand. "Activate the Spell Card, **Unexpected Dai**!"
"This card can only be activated when there are no monsters on my field. Special Summon one Level 4 or lower Normal Monster from my Deck. Here we go! **E•HERO Sparkman**!"
Following **Clayman** and **Blade Edge** of the EARTH Attribute, and **E•HERO Avian** of the WIND Attribute, the monster that appeared on Judai's field was a sci-fi style hero wrapped in lightning all over its body.
Although, it was still a Normal Monster.
[**E•HERO Sparkman**] [4☆/LIGHT]
[Warrior Type/Normal]
[1600/1400]
In Judai's crippled E HERO Deck, **E•HERO Sparkman**, one of the "Elemental Four Wastes", was also a Normal Monster, but at least its ATK was 1600, which was somewhat acceptable.
The problem was, he was now facing Dark Magician with 2500 ATK. Although there was a **Magician's Robe** with only 800 ATK next to him that he could bully, due to **Swords of Revealing Light**, Judai could only passively take attacks right now.
"Set a card, I end my turn." Since he had no immediate plan, Judai could only hastily end his turn. However, a confident smile always hung on the corner of Judai's mouth.
[Judai: 3100 LP, Hand 0]
[**E•HERO Sparkman**] [ATK 1600]
[Set Card] X2
'Does he have a card that can turn the tide?'
Yugi maintained his usual vigilance, his finger resting on his Deck. Last turn, Judai's attempt to chain a Set Card to Dark Magician's attack was interrupted by the effect of **Dark Magician Enhance**, but that Set Card still existed and remained a threat.
"My turn, draw."
Glancing at the card he drew, Yugi wasn't in a hurry to use it. He simply waved his hand and gave the order: "Proceed directly to my Battle Phase, I use Dark Magician to attack **E•HERO Sparkman**!"
Although Yugi's Deck wasn't without cards that could destroy the Spell/Trap Zone, such as **Dark Magic Attack** which had the same effect as **Harpie's Feather Duster** to destroy all of the opponent's Spell/Trap Cards, using **Dark Magic Attack** just for two cards was a bit wasted.
It was better to attack directly with a monster like this and probe what kind of card it was.
Receiving Yugi's instruction, Dark Magician twirled the staff in his hand. A black-purple magic orb formed at the end of the emerald staff, but he didn't fire it directly. Instead, he clenched it in his hand like a "Rasengan" and rushed towards **E•HERO Sparkman**.
**Sparkman** was also quite cooperative. With a flick of his arm, the lightning on his body gathered towards his palm, forming a crackling ball of lightning that sounded like a thousand birds chirping together, and attacked towards Dark Magician.
"He's attacking, huh? Alright, then I activate this Set Card!" Judai watched Dark Magician attack and pressed the activate Set Card button. "It was interrupted by Mr. Yugi last turn, but this time there won't be any more accidents, right?"
"Activate the Quick-Play Spell Card, **Heavy Slump**!"
Dark Magician, holding the "Rasengan", and **Sparkman**, holding the "Chidori", were about to clash and recreate a famous scene, when suddenly, Dark Magician felt a heavy pressure appear on his body.
It wasn't a lack of strength from his muscles, but an actual, sudden increase in gravity!
"The effect of **Heavy Slump** is, until the end of the turn, decrease the ATK of one face-up monster by its own DEF value," Judai explained confidently, hands on his hips. "This card isn't much of a threat to monsters with high ATK but low DEF, but Dark Magician has both high ATK and DEF, so he will be significantly influenced!"
"After all, his DEF is as high as 2100! Because of **Heavy Slump's** effect, his ATK will be decreased to only 400!"
As he spoke, Judai looked at Yugi.
He wanted to see expressions like "surprise" or "confusion" on Yugi's face, but all he saw was "Relieved".
"I see. Last turn, if it weren't for the effect of **Dark Magician Enhance** which could negate my Spell/Trap Cards from being chained, my attacking Dark Magician, even if his ATK was increased by 1000, would still only have 1400 after **Heavy Slump** was activated, and still wouldn't be a match for **E•HERO Blade Edge**."
"And luckily it was **Heavy Slump**. I was originally thinking it would be bad if it was a card like **Mirror Force**," Yugi said, inserting the card he had just drawn from his hand into the Spell & Trap Zone. "But Judai-kun, you activated your card too early!"
"In chain to **Heavy Slump's** effect, I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card, **Baptism of Light and Darkness**, from my hand!"
"Gather the power of light and darkness, and release your shackled power!"
**Sparkman**, holding the lightning, came before Dark Magician, who was bound by gravity and couldn't move. He swung his palm forcefully, completely piercing Dark Magician's body.
However, a confused expression appeared on **Sparkman's** face.
The feeling was completely wrong; this wasn't the feeling of destroying a physical body!
Dark Magician's body, pierced by **Sparkman**, dispersed into starlight-like mystical power. This was clearly an empty shell!
**Sparkman**, surprised that his opponent had changed positions at some point, looked around, searching for where Dark Magician might have appeared. Then, he suddenly raised his head.
At some point, Dark Magician, who had "shed his shell" from the large **Mage Robe** of the past, had changed into a black leather outfit and was hovering in mid-air, looking down at **Sparkman** on the ground.
No, calling him Dark Magician at this moment was incorrect.
Using the pressure from **Heavy Slump**, Dark Magician completely released his mystical power, fully mastering the power of light and darkness, and appeared in a new stance. Like a Golden Experience using a Stand Arrow, Dark Magician at this moment was named—
"**Magician of Black Chaos**!"
[**Magician of Black Chaos**] [8☆/DARK]
[Spellcaster Type/Effect]
[2800/2600]
"He actually evolved Dark Magician into another monster," Judai said with a bitter face. "That's too unfair."
He had originally thought that if he used **Heavy Slump's** effect, he could take the opportunity to defeat Dark Magician, but he didn't expect Yugi to have such a move hidden. Because Dark Magician, who was selected as the target, turned into **Magician of Black Chaos**, **Heavy Slump's** effect had become ineffective and could no longer apply. Judai also lost the key card that could counterattack Dark Magician.
Yugi waved his palm: "Because of **Magician of Black Chaos's** effect, when he is Summoned or Special Summoned successfully, I can add one Spell Card from my Graveyard to my hand!"
"The card I choose is, **Dark Magician Enhance**!"
**Magician of Black Chaos**, hovering in the air, held his wand in one hand and raised his empty hand to snap his finger.
A moving magic circle generated in front of him, and as the magic circle moved, a card was created out of nothing. It was none other than **Dark Magician Enhance**, which Yugi had already used once last turn!
Because the battle with Dark Magician was interrupted, **Sparkman** retreated to Judai's field with a vigilant expression, standing in front of him, watching **Magician of Black Chaos** slowly land back on Yugi's field.
Looking at the Set Card in Judai's Spell/Trap Zone, Yugi frowned and thought.
'The combo of Dark Magician and **Baptism of Light and Darkness** helped me trick Judai into using his **Heavy Slump**. This means Judai only has one Set Card left.'
'If it were an Attack Declaration Trap, Judai could have activated it just now instead of using **Heavy Slump**, which is more suitable for attacks. This means the possibility of that card being an Attack Declaration Trap is not very high. Perhaps it's a card like **Hero Signal** from before.'
'However, **Magician of Black Chaos** has an effect that banishes destroyed monsters, which can negate many cards that can only be activated after a monster is sent to the Graveyard, such as **Trap of the Fellow Traveler**. Using **Magician of Black Chaos** can safely defeat **Sparkman**, and then **Magician's Robe** can make a direct attack.'
'But my intuition tells me that doing so is dangerous!'
Yugi's gaze gradually sharpened. Although Judai was just a child, the strength he had shown so far made Yugi feel that it was not excessive to be serious, because he was worth treating with such seriousness.
"Then next, I will activate the card I just recycled, **Dark Magician Enhance**." After inserting the card in his hand into the Spell & Trap Zone, Yugi pointed to his field. "Because the total quantity of Dark Magician and **Dark Magician Girl** in my Graveyard is two, so I can increase the ATK of one Spellcaster Type monster on the field, and you cannot chain to my Spell/Trap Cards to activate cards."
However, the monster pointed to by Yugi to increase ATK was not the impressive **Magician of Black Chaos** who had just appeared, but instead the **Magician's Robe**, which had been somewhat lacking in presence until now!?
"Although attacking with **Magician of Black Chaos** seems safer, and I don't have to worry about being counterattacked by cards like **Rush Recklessly**, to be safe, Judai, the monster I will increase ATK is **Magician's Robe**, and I will use **Magician's Robe** to attack your **Sparkman**!"
As Yugi's finger pointed to **Magician's Robe**, the phantoms of Dark Magician and **Dark Magician Girl** appeared behind him, injecting a powerful mystical power into **Magician's Robe's** body.
[**Magician's Robe**] [ATK 800→1800]
Judai looked surprised: "He actually increased the ATK of **Magician's Robe**?"
"Go, **Magician's Robe**, attack **E•HERO Sparkman** on Judai's field!" Yugi gave the attack instruction. "I cannot be sure what that Set Card in your Spell/Trap Zone is, so before that, I will not let **Magician of Black Chaos** get close."
The **Magician's Robe**, which moved automatically without anyone wearing it, floated up and charged towards **E•HERO Sparkman** on Judai's field. Although it seemed to be made of cloth, **Magician's Robe** made a sound of breaking through the air as it moved, full of power.
**Magician's Robe's** original ATK was only 800, but because of **Dark Magician Enhance's** effect, it was increased to 1800, giving it the ability to destroy **Sparkman**. And once **Sparkman** was destroyed, the next would be **Magician of Black Chaos's** direct attack with 2800 ATK.
Helplessly, Judai finally opened his Set Card: "I activate the Trap Card, **Hero Barrier**!"
Yugi couldn't help but look at the **Hero Barrier** Judai activated. Judging by the card's name, it seemed to be a card with some kind of protective barrier effect. However, what Yugi didn't expect was that although Judai activated the Set Card, there was no change on his field. **Sparkman** was hit hard by the fast-moving **Magician's Robe**, destroyed and sent to the Graveyard, and Judai's Life Points were deducted.
"Ugh!"
[Judai: 3100→2900 LP]
Watching Judai's Life Points deduct 200 Battle Damage, Yugi was a bit confused, but still gave the order:
"Although I don't know what kind of effect that **Hero Barrier** has, it seems like it doesn't have the ability to protect you?"
"I'm sorry, Judai-kun, I won't hold back in a duel. So next, direct attack the opponent Duelist, **Magician of Black Chaos**!"
"Destruction Chant!"
Following Yugi's order, **Magician of Black Chaos** raised the staff in his hand and aimed it at Judai, who only had **Swords of Revealing Light** and that useless **Hero Barrier** left on his field. A beam of dark mystical power shot out instantly from the tip of the staff, flying directly towards Judai, who had no protection.
If this attack hit, Judai's Life Points would instantly plummet to only 100!
Despite the extremely dangerous situation, Judai seemed to feel no pressure at all and instead started laughing: "Alright, this is what I've been waiting for!"
"Go, **Hero Barrier**!"
To Yugi's surprised gaze, the **Hero Barrier** he thought was useless suddenly spun around and automatically blocked between **Magician of Black Chaos** and Judai. The beam of attack just now was completely absorbed by it!
"Boom!"
**Hero Barrier** seemed to have absorbed energy beyond its limit, exploding with a roar, revealing Judai standing behind it completely unharmed.
With a proud smile, Judai scratched the back of his head, answering Yugi's question before he even asked: "The activation condition for **Hero Barrier** is that I must have an **E•HERO** monster on my field. Then, after activation, **Hero Barrier** can block one attack for me at any time during this turn. This effect can be activated even if I don't have an **E•HERO** on my field."
Yugi showed an expression of understanding: "I see, there's actually a Trap Card that can take effect with a delay like that."
"Taking 200 Battle Damage as stakes, you defended against my offensive this turn. That's a good strategy, Judai-kun." Yugi nodded in acknowledgement. "Then, my turn ends here."
"But Judai, constantly defending won't win you the duel."
[Yugi: 4200 LP, Hand 0]
[**Magician of Black Chaos**] [ATK 2800]
[**Magician's Robe**] [ATK 1800→800]
Looking at **Magician of Black Chaos** and **Magician's Robe** floating back to Yugi's field, Judai showed a fighting spirit-filled gaze: "Yeah, I think so too, Mr. Yugi."
"After taking so much damage, I think it's about time to show the courage of the heroes." Resting his finger on his Deck, Judai drew a card. "Then next is my offensive, Mr. Yugi!"
"I activate the effect of **E•HERO Bubbleman** from my hand. When he is the only card in my hand, I can Special Summon him to the field!"
The hero representing the WATER Attribute, **E•HERO Bubbleman**, revealed his figure amidst a dense burst of foam. With a helmet that exposed his chin, similar to a certain cup noodle character, and a white cape symbolizing a strong player, Bubbleman made a cool debut with pipes connected to his arms!
[**E•HERO Bubbleman**] [4☆/WATER]
[Warrior Type/Effect]
[800/1200]
"This time it's an **E•HERO** of the WATER Attribute? Like **Swift Gaia the Fierce Knight**, he has the ability to 'Special Summon directly when he is the only card in your hand'," Yugi said, frowning as he looked at the newly appeared Bubbleman. "But, even with this effect to compensate, as a Level 4 monster, Bubbleman's ATK/DEF are too low."
"And Judai, don't you have **Immortal Bushi** in your Graveyard? During your Standby Phase, you didn't have any monsters on your field, and the only monsters sent to your Graveyard so far are Warrior Type monsters. Did you forget to activate his effect?"
Yugi thought this was a mistake or poor play by Judai, but unexpectedly, Judai shook his head: "No, Mr. Yugi. Although **Immortal Bushi** can come to my field because of his effect, if I want to activate **Bubbleman's** effect, I must discard the idea of Special Summoning him."
Judai said, pointing his hand at Bubbleman on the field: "**Bubbleman's** second effect is, when he is Summoned, Flip Summoned, or Special Summoned successfully, I can draw two cards from my Deck, but this effect can only be activated when there are no other cards on my field."
Yugi seemed to understand: "I see. You thought drawing more cards was more useful than Summoning **Immortal Bushi**?"
Judai, who had drawn cards, looked at his hand and activated one of the cards: "Next is the effect of **Pot of Greed**, I can draw two more cards from my Deck, bringing my hand to three cards."
"Then I activate the Spell Card, **Metamorphosis**!" Judai played a Forbidden Card that had been banned for ages from his hand. "Because of this card's effect, I send **Bubbleman** to the Graveyard as a tribute, and then Special Summon a Fusion Monster with the same Level."
"Come out, **E•HERO Neo Bubbleman**!"
The muscular Bubbleman leaped into the air, his figure beginning to change under the influence of **Metamorphosis**. By the time he landed, he had transformed into the taller, slimmer, muscular **Neo Bubbleman**.
Although the card art of **Metamorphosis** was ugly, the design of **E•HERO Neo Bubbleman** summoned by this effect was quite cool. The originally somewhat rounded weapon and equipment gained many detailed carvings and a more technological feel, and the white cape on his back transformed into two pieces resembling fish fins.
[**E•HERO Neo Bubbleman**] [4☆/WATER]
[Warrior Type/Fusion Monster/Effect]
[800/1200]
In the Spectator Area, Hayato frowned as he watched **Neo Bubbleman** appear.
Because he clearly remembered that although he had drawn **Neo Bubbleman** in the **E HERO** Archetype, he only had one copy, and it wasn't included in the Deck he gave to Judai.
Moreover, the **Neo Bubbleman** he drew was the OCG version, which was a Special Summon Monster, not a Fusion Monster.
In other words, this guy Judai, despite only having the **E HERO** cards for a few months, has already started card printing!?
On the Duel Field, Yugi also became vigilant as he watched **Neo Bubbleman** appear.
Transformed by the effect of **Metamorphosis**, **Neo Bubbleman's** ATK/DEF were exactly the same as **Bubbleman** before the change, and neither its Level nor Attribute changed. If Judai wasn't just performing a magic trick, then these characteristics meant that **Neo Bubbleman's** effect would inevitably be different from the previous **Bubbleman**.
Judai also drew his second card: "As long as **E•HERO Neo Bubbleman** is in face-up position on the field, its name can be treated as **E•HERO Bubbleman**. Therefore, I can equip **Bubbleman's** exclusive Equip Spell Card—**Bubble Blaster**—to him."
A huge cannon barrel appeared out of thin air on **Neo Bubbleman's** shoulder, which he held up. Although it had a name like **Bubble Blaster**, which sounded like a child's toy, based on its appearance, Yugi thought calling it an RPG would be more appropriate.
"**Bubble Blaster** is an exclusive card that only **Bubbleman** can equip. Its effect is to increase the ATK of the equipped monster by 800. With this, **Neo Bubbleman's** ATK will increase to 1600!"
[**E•HERO Neo Bubbleman**] [ATK 800→1600]
Hearing Judai's words, Yugi reminded him: "Are you trying to attack my **Magician's Robe**? But Judai, don't forget the existence of **Swords of Revealing Light**. Its effect won't be lifted until the next turn. And as long as **Swords of Revealing Light** still exists, your monsters cannot declare an attack."
"In that case, why not just destroy it?" Judai flipped over the last card in his hand. "Quick-Play Spell Card, **Mystical Space Typhoon**! Select one Spell/Trap Card on the field and destroy it. I choose to destroy **Swords of Revealing Light**."
"With this, the obstacle is gone!"
As a whirlwind swept across Judai's field, the Spell Card **Swords of Revealing Light**, which had troubled him for two turns, finally disappeared from the field. Now Judai could finally start attacking.
"Alright, I'm finally free! It feels as refreshing as greeting the first morning of the new year wearing brand new underwear." Judai excitedly clenched his fist and commanded, "Then enter my Battle Phase, I will use **Neo Bubbleman** to attack!"
"The target of attack is—"
"**Magician of Black Chaos**!"
"Nani?" Yugi showed a surprised expression. "Using **Neo Bubbleman** with 1600 ATK to attack **Magician of Black Chaos**?"
Yugi, unable to understand Judai's intention, was very confused, but still gave the order: "Although I don't know what you're trying to do, in short, counterattack, **Magician of Black Chaos**!"
As **Neo Bubbleman** pulled the trigger of the rocket launcher-shaped **Bubble Blaster** on his shoulder, **Magician of Black Chaos** also unleashed a magic blast. The black beam of mystical power and the blue stream of foam collided in mid-air, but to Yugi's surprise, **Magician of Black Chaos's** attack was actually pushed back!?
"Boom!"
Watching the destroyed **Magician of Black Chaos**, Hayato commented: "If it were a kicking contest, maybe there'd be a chance, but in a head-to-head beam struggle, looking from here, Yugi is conveniently on the left."
**Metamorphosis**, a forbidden card, could Special Summon powerful suppression monsters like **The Last Warrior from Another Planet** and **Naturia Beast** without material, so it was naturally forbidden.
However, precisely because **Metamorphosis** was forbidden, the real card **Neo Bubbleman** became a card with unclear meaning, because it simply couldn't be used. The effect of his real card is that you must send **Bubbleman** on the field and **Metamorphosis** from your hand to the Graveyard to Special Summon him.
End of Chapter
He used an external force to increase his ATK during the battle in a very unsportsmanlike manner, and at the same time, he restricted Judai from using Set Cards. The Purity of Dark Magician has greatly decreased.
However, it was also a fact that he defeated the **E•HERO Blade Edge** that Judai had painstakingly Summoned last turn.
[Judai: 4000→3100 LP]
"Ugh, that hurt," Judai rubbed his chest and exclaimed, "Even though it was only 900 Battle Damage, it felt more painful than being hit by a charging rhinoceros."
"Or is this the power of the Duelist Spirit of a Legendary Duelist?"
Yugi watched Dark Magician return to his field and heard Judai's exclamation. He smiled and said, "How about it, can you still continue, Judai-kun?"
"Yeah, I'm far from done. I won't give up the Duel that easily," Judai said with a smile. "Besides, heroes aren't defeated by one or two losses."
"Although because of the effect of **Dark Magician Enhance**, I can't chain to your Spell/Trap Card activations, Mr. Yugi, it's fine if 'my monster is destroyed'."
As he spoke, a Set Card in Judai's Spell/Trap Zone, which had been firmly held down by the power of Dark Magician Girl, broke free from the magical power and released a phantom soul. It was the **E•HERO Blade Edge** that had just been destroyed. After the released soul of **Blade Edge** ascended into the sky, it transformed into a giant 'H', looking as if it were projected into the sky by a light.
"The effect of **Hero Signal** is, when a monster on my field is Battle Destroyed and Sent to the Graveyard, I can Special Summon one Level 4 or lower **E•HERO** monster from my Hand or Deck," Judai said, searching a card from his Deck and placed it on his Duel Disk. "I Special Summon **E•HERO Avian** from my Deck!"
A black dot appeared in the center of the white letter 'H'. Accompanied by the whistling wind, the black dot gradually enlarged and landed on Judai's field. It turned out to be another **E•HERO** monster. Covered in green feathers all over its body, with claws on its hands and feet, and large wings on its back, this was the Hero of the Sky—**E•HERO Avian**.
[**E•HERO Avian**] [3☆/WIND]
[Warrior Type/Normal]
[1000/1000]
It had no special ability, and its ATK/DEF were equally mediocre, without any advantages. But even so, **E•HERO Avian** standing before Judai formed a sufficient defense line, blocking Yugi's **Magician's Robe**, which hadn't attacked yet.
[**E•HERO Avian**] [ATK 1000]
[**Magician's Robe**] [ATK 800]
Yugi felt a little regret, because if it weren't for Judai's **Hero Signal**, **E•HERO Avian** wouldn't have appeared. Next, Judai would have taken a direct attack, and then he could reduce his Life Points to 2300, expanding his advantage.
Although he couldn't destroy **E•HERO Avian**, Yugi wasn't too bothered. After all, the effect of **Swords of Revealing Light** he activated had only been used for one turn. Judai still needed to wait two turns before he could attack him, so it didn't matter even if **Magician's Robe** was currently in Attack Position.
"In that case, I end my turn."
[Yugi: 4200 LP, Hand 0]
[Dark Magician] [ATK 2500]
[**Magician's Robe**] [ATK 800]
[**Swords of Revealing Light**]
"My turn, draw!" Judai drew a card from his Deck, a smile appearing on his face. "Oh, I drew a good card."
"Although **E•HERO Avian** is a Normal Monster, Mr. Hayato said that there are no useless cards in the world, and every card has its use." Judai said, showing the card in his hand. "And precisely because **E•HERO Avian** is a Normal Monster, he can do things other monsters can't!"
Hearing this, **E•HERO Avian** nodded repeatedly.
What's this? Judai has good taste, huh? Seems like he drew some very powerful card? Heh heh, then it's finally my time to shine!
"Activate the Spell Card, **Price of Horse Bone**!"
Huh?!
**E•HERO Avian's** eyes widened as he looked at the Spell Card that appeared behind him.
This is a bit different from what I thought. Shouldn't I be equipped with some invincible Equip Card and then counterattack Dark Magician?!
"The effect of **Price of Horse Bone**, I remember it's..." Yugi recalled for a moment, then suddenly fell silent.
The effect of **Price of Horse Bone** is to Send a monster on your field, other than an Effect Monster, to the Graveyard, and then draw two cards. He could clearly use **Pot of Greed** to draw two cards directly, but instead chose to tribute his own monster. As expected, it's Hayato's style.
What exactly have you been teaching this child, Hayato!
Amidst **E•HERO Avian's** unwillingness and Yugi's inner thoughts, Judai drew two cards, and at the same time, sent the **E•HERO Avian** on his field to the Graveyard.
"Although it seems like I sent the only **E•HERO Avian** on my field to the Graveyard, Mr. Yugi, a hero's temporary departure is just preparation for the appearance of the next hero." Judai said, playing a card from his hand. "Activate the Spell Card, **Unexpected Dai**!"
"This card can only be activated when there are no monsters on my field. Special Summon one Level 4 or lower Normal Monster from my Deck. Here we go! **E•HERO Sparkman**!"
Following **Clayman** and **Blade Edge** of the EARTH Attribute, and **E•HERO Avian** of the WIND Attribute, the monster that appeared on Judai's field was a sci-fi style hero wrapped in lightning all over its body.
Although, it was still a Normal Monster.
[**E•HERO Sparkman**] [4☆/LIGHT]
[Warrior Type/Normal]
[1600/1400]
In Judai's crippled E HERO Deck, **E•HERO Sparkman**, one of the "Elemental Four Wastes", was also a Normal Monster, but at least its ATK was 1600, which was somewhat acceptable.
The problem was, he was now facing Dark Magician with 2500 ATK. Although there was a **Magician's Robe** with only 800 ATK next to him that he could bully, due to **Swords of Revealing Light**, Judai could only passively take attacks right now.
"Set a card, I end my turn." Since he had no immediate plan, Judai could only hastily end his turn. However, a confident smile always hung on the corner of Judai's mouth.
[Judai: 3100 LP, Hand 0]
[**E•HERO Sparkman**] [ATK 1600]
[Set Card] X2
'Does he have a card that can turn the tide?'
Yugi maintained his usual vigilance, his finger resting on his Deck. Last turn, Judai's attempt to chain a Set Card to Dark Magician's attack was interrupted by the effect of **Dark Magician Enhance**, but that Set Card still existed and remained a threat.
"My turn, draw."
Glancing at the card he drew, Yugi wasn't in a hurry to use it. He simply waved his hand and gave the order: "Proceed directly to my Battle Phase, I use Dark Magician to attack **E•HERO Sparkman**!"
Although Yugi's Deck wasn't without cards that could destroy the Spell/Trap Zone, such as **Dark Magic Attack** which had the same effect as **Harpie's Feather Duster** to destroy all of the opponent's Spell/Trap Cards, using **Dark Magic Attack** just for two cards was a bit wasted.
It was better to attack directly with a monster like this and probe what kind of card it was.
Receiving Yugi's instruction, Dark Magician twirled the staff in his hand. A black-purple magic orb formed at the end of the emerald staff, but he didn't fire it directly. Instead, he clenched it in his hand like a "Rasengan" and rushed towards **E•HERO Sparkman**.
**Sparkman** was also quite cooperative. With a flick of his arm, the lightning on his body gathered towards his palm, forming a crackling ball of lightning that sounded like a thousand birds chirping together, and attacked towards Dark Magician.
"He's attacking, huh? Alright, then I activate this Set Card!" Judai watched Dark Magician attack and pressed the activate Set Card button. "It was interrupted by Mr. Yugi last turn, but this time there won't be any more accidents, right?"
"Activate the Quick-Play Spell Card, **Heavy Slump**!"
Dark Magician, holding the "Rasengan", and **Sparkman**, holding the "Chidori", were about to clash and recreate a famous scene, when suddenly, Dark Magician felt a heavy pressure appear on his body.
It wasn't a lack of strength from his muscles, but an actual, sudden increase in gravity!
"The effect of **Heavy Slump** is, until the end of the turn, decrease the ATK of one face-up monster by its own DEF value," Judai explained confidently, hands on his hips. "This card isn't much of a threat to monsters with high ATK but low DEF, but Dark Magician has both high ATK and DEF, so he will be significantly influenced!"
"After all, his DEF is as high as 2100! Because of **Heavy Slump's** effect, his ATK will be decreased to only 400!"
As he spoke, Judai looked at Yugi.
He wanted to see expressions like "surprise" or "confusion" on Yugi's face, but all he saw was "Relieved".
"I see. Last turn, if it weren't for the effect of **Dark Magician Enhance** which could negate my Spell/Trap Cards from being chained, my attacking Dark Magician, even if his ATK was increased by 1000, would still only have 1400 after **Heavy Slump** was activated, and still wouldn't be a match for **E•HERO Blade Edge**."
"And luckily it was **Heavy Slump**. I was originally thinking it would be bad if it was a card like **Mirror Force**," Yugi said, inserting the card he had just drawn from his hand into the Spell & Trap Zone. "But Judai-kun, you activated your card too early!"
"In chain to **Heavy Slump's** effect, I activate the Quick-Play Spell Card, **Baptism of Light and Darkness**, from my hand!"
"Gather the power of light and darkness, and release your shackled power!"
**Sparkman**, holding the lightning, came before Dark Magician, who was bound by gravity and couldn't move. He swung his palm forcefully, completely piercing Dark Magician's body.
However, a confused expression appeared on **Sparkman's** face.
The feeling was completely wrong; this wasn't the feeling of destroying a physical body!
Dark Magician's body, pierced by **Sparkman**, dispersed into starlight-like mystical power. This was clearly an empty shell!
**Sparkman**, surprised that his opponent had changed positions at some point, looked around, searching for where Dark Magician might have appeared. Then, he suddenly raised his head.
At some point, Dark Magician, who had "shed his shell" from the large **Mage Robe** of the past, had changed into a black leather outfit and was hovering in mid-air, looking down at **Sparkman** on the ground.
No, calling him Dark Magician at this moment was incorrect.
Using the pressure from **Heavy Slump**, Dark Magician completely released his mystical power, fully mastering the power of light and darkness, and appeared in a new stance. Like a Golden Experience using a Stand Arrow, Dark Magician at this moment was named—
"**Magician of Black Chaos**!"
[**Magician of Black Chaos**] [8☆/DARK]
[Spellcaster Type/Effect]
[2800/2600]
"He actually evolved Dark Magician into another monster," Judai said with a bitter face. "That's too unfair."
He had originally thought that if he used **Heavy Slump's** effect, he could take the opportunity to defeat Dark Magician, but he didn't expect Yugi to have such a move hidden. Because Dark Magician, who was selected as the target, turned into **Magician of Black Chaos**, **Heavy Slump's** effect had become ineffective and could no longer apply. Judai also lost the key card that could counterattack Dark Magician.
Yugi waved his palm: "Because of **Magician of Black Chaos's** effect, when he is Summoned or Special Summoned successfully, I can add one Spell Card from my Graveyard to my hand!"
"The card I choose is, **Dark Magician Enhance**!"
**Magician of Black Chaos**, hovering in the air, held his wand in one hand and raised his empty hand to snap his finger.
A moving magic circle generated in front of him, and as the magic circle moved, a card was created out of nothing. It was none other than **Dark Magician Enhance**, which Yugi had already used once last turn!
Because the battle with Dark Magician was interrupted, **Sparkman** retreated to Judai's field with a vigilant expression, standing in front of him, watching **Magician of Black Chaos** slowly land back on Yugi's field.
Looking at the Set Card in Judai's Spell/Trap Zone, Yugi frowned and thought.
'The combo of Dark Magician and **Baptism of Light and Darkness** helped me trick Judai into using his **Heavy Slump**. This means Judai only has one Set Card left.'
'If it were an Attack Declaration Trap, Judai could have activated it just now instead of using **Heavy Slump**, which is more suitable for attacks. This means the possibility of that card being an Attack Declaration Trap is not very high. Perhaps it's a card like **Hero Signal** from before.'
'However, **Magician of Black Chaos** has an effect that banishes destroyed monsters, which can negate many cards that can only be activated after a monster is sent to the Graveyard, such as **Trap of the Fellow Traveler**. Using **Magician of Black Chaos** can safely defeat **Sparkman**, and then **Magician's Robe** can make a direct attack.'
'But my intuition tells me that doing so is dangerous!'
Yugi's gaze gradually sharpened. Although Judai was just a child, the strength he had shown so far made Yugi feel that it was not excessive to be serious, because he was worth treating with such seriousness.
"Then next, I will activate the card I just recycled, **Dark Magician Enhance**." After inserting the card in his hand into the Spell & Trap Zone, Yugi pointed to his field. "Because the total quantity of Dark Magician and **Dark Magician Girl** in my Graveyard is two, so I can increase the ATK of one Spellcaster Type monster on the field, and you cannot chain to my Spell/Trap Cards to activate cards."
However, the monster pointed to by Yugi to increase ATK was not the impressive **Magician of Black Chaos** who had just appeared, but instead the **Magician's Robe**, which had been somewhat lacking in presence until now!?
"Although attacking with **Magician of Black Chaos** seems safer, and I don't have to worry about being counterattacked by cards like **Rush Recklessly**, to be safe, Judai, the monster I will increase ATK is **Magician's Robe**, and I will use **Magician's Robe** to attack your **Sparkman**!"
As Yugi's finger pointed to **Magician's Robe**, the phantoms of Dark Magician and **Dark Magician Girl** appeared behind him, injecting a powerful mystical power into **Magician's Robe's** body.
[**Magician's Robe**] [ATK 800→1800]
Judai looked surprised: "He actually increased the ATK of **Magician's Robe**?"
"Go, **Magician's Robe**, attack **E•HERO Sparkman** on Judai's field!" Yugi gave the attack instruction. "I cannot be sure what that Set Card in your Spell/Trap Zone is, so before that, I will not let **Magician of Black Chaos** get close."
The **Magician's Robe**, which moved automatically without anyone wearing it, floated up and charged towards **E•HERO Sparkman** on Judai's field. Although it seemed to be made of cloth, **Magician's Robe** made a sound of breaking through the air as it moved, full of power.
**Magician's Robe's** original ATK was only 800, but because of **Dark Magician Enhance's** effect, it was increased to 1800, giving it the ability to destroy **Sparkman**. And once **Sparkman** was destroyed, the next would be **Magician of Black Chaos's** direct attack with 2800 ATK.
Helplessly, Judai finally opened his Set Card: "I activate the Trap Card, **Hero Barrier**!"
Yugi couldn't help but look at the **Hero Barrier** Judai activated. Judging by the card's name, it seemed to be a card with some kind of protective barrier effect. However, what Yugi didn't expect was that although Judai activated the Set Card, there was no change on his field. **Sparkman** was hit hard by the fast-moving **Magician's Robe**, destroyed and sent to the Graveyard, and Judai's Life Points were deducted.
"Ugh!"
[Judai: 3100→2900 LP]
Watching Judai's Life Points deduct 200 Battle Damage, Yugi was a bit confused, but still gave the order:
"Although I don't know what kind of effect that **Hero Barrier** has, it seems like it doesn't have the ability to protect you?"
"I'm sorry, Judai-kun, I won't hold back in a duel. So next, direct attack the opponent Duelist, **Magician of Black Chaos**!"
"Destruction Chant!"
Following Yugi's order, **Magician of Black Chaos** raised the staff in his hand and aimed it at Judai, who only had **Swords of Revealing Light** and that useless **Hero Barrier** left on his field. A beam of dark mystical power shot out instantly from the tip of the staff, flying directly towards Judai, who had no protection.
If this attack hit, Judai's Life Points would instantly plummet to only 100!
Despite the extremely dangerous situation, Judai seemed to feel no pressure at all and instead started laughing: "Alright, this is what I've been waiting for!"
"Go, **Hero Barrier**!"
To Yugi's surprised gaze, the **Hero Barrier** he thought was useless suddenly spun around and automatically blocked between **Magician of Black Chaos** and Judai. The beam of attack just now was completely absorbed by it!
"Boom!"
**Hero Barrier** seemed to have absorbed energy beyond its limit, exploding with a roar, revealing Judai standing behind it completely unharmed.
With a proud smile, Judai scratched the back of his head, answering Yugi's question before he even asked: "The activation condition for **Hero Barrier** is that I must have an **E•HERO** monster on my field. Then, after activation, **Hero Barrier** can block one attack for me at any time during this turn. This effect can be activated even if I don't have an **E•HERO** on my field."
Yugi showed an expression of understanding: "I see, there's actually a Trap Card that can take effect with a delay like that."
"Taking 200 Battle Damage as stakes, you defended against my offensive this turn. That's a good strategy, Judai-kun." Yugi nodded in acknowledgement. "Then, my turn ends here."
"But Judai, constantly defending won't win you the duel."
[Yugi: 4200 LP, Hand 0]
[**Magician of Black Chaos**] [ATK 2800]
[**Magician's Robe**] [ATK 1800→800]
Looking at **Magician of Black Chaos** and **Magician's Robe** floating back to Yugi's field, Judai showed a fighting spirit-filled gaze: "Yeah, I think so too, Mr. Yugi."
"After taking so much damage, I think it's about time to show the courage of the heroes." Resting his finger on his Deck, Judai drew a card. "Then next is my offensive, Mr. Yugi!"
"I activate the effect of **E•HERO Bubbleman** from my hand. When he is the only card in my hand, I can Special Summon him to the field!"
The hero representing the WATER Attribute, **E•HERO Bubbleman**, revealed his figure amidst a dense burst of foam. With a helmet that exposed his chin, similar to a certain cup noodle character, and a white cape symbolizing a strong player, Bubbleman made a cool debut with pipes connected to his arms!
[**E•HERO Bubbleman**] [4☆/WATER]
[Warrior Type/Effect]
[800/1200]
"This time it's an **E•HERO** of the WATER Attribute? Like **Swift Gaia the Fierce Knight**, he has the ability to 'Special Summon directly when he is the only card in your hand'," Yugi said, frowning as he looked at the newly appeared Bubbleman. "But, even with this effect to compensate, as a Level 4 monster, Bubbleman's ATK/DEF are too low."
"And Judai, don't you have **Immortal Bushi** in your Graveyard? During your Standby Phase, you didn't have any monsters on your field, and the only monsters sent to your Graveyard so far are Warrior Type monsters. Did you forget to activate his effect?"
Yugi thought this was a mistake or poor play by Judai, but unexpectedly, Judai shook his head: "No, Mr. Yugi. Although **Immortal Bushi** can come to my field because of his effect, if I want to activate **Bubbleman's** effect, I must discard the idea of Special Summoning him."
Judai said, pointing his hand at Bubbleman on the field: "**Bubbleman's** second effect is, when he is Summoned, Flip Summoned, or Special Summoned successfully, I can draw two cards from my Deck, but this effect can only be activated when there are no other cards on my field."
Yugi seemed to understand: "I see. You thought drawing more cards was more useful than Summoning **Immortal Bushi**?"
Judai, who had drawn cards, looked at his hand and activated one of the cards: "Next is the effect of **Pot of Greed**, I can draw two more cards from my Deck, bringing my hand to three cards."
"Then I activate the Spell Card, **Metamorphosis**!" Judai played a Forbidden Card that had been banned for ages from his hand. "Because of this card's effect, I send **Bubbleman** to the Graveyard as a tribute, and then Special Summon a Fusion Monster with the same Level."
"Come out, **E•HERO Neo Bubbleman**!"
The muscular Bubbleman leaped into the air, his figure beginning to change under the influence of **Metamorphosis**. By the time he landed, he had transformed into the taller, slimmer, muscular **Neo Bubbleman**.
Although the card art of **Metamorphosis** was ugly, the design of **E•HERO Neo Bubbleman** summoned by this effect was quite cool. The originally somewhat rounded weapon and equipment gained many detailed carvings and a more technological feel, and the white cape on his back transformed into two pieces resembling fish fins.
[**E•HERO Neo Bubbleman**] [4☆/WATER]
[Warrior Type/Fusion Monster/Effect]
[800/1200]
In the Spectator Area, Hayato frowned as he watched **Neo Bubbleman** appear.
Because he clearly remembered that although he had drawn **Neo Bubbleman** in the **E HERO** Archetype, he only had one copy, and it wasn't included in the Deck he gave to Judai.
Moreover, the **Neo Bubbleman** he drew was the OCG version, which was a Special Summon Monster, not a Fusion Monster.
In other words, this guy Judai, despite only having the **E HERO** cards for a few months, has already started card printing!?
On the Duel Field, Yugi also became vigilant as he watched **Neo Bubbleman** appear.
Transformed by the effect of **Metamorphosis**, **Neo Bubbleman's** ATK/DEF were exactly the same as **Bubbleman** before the change, and neither its Level nor Attribute changed. If Judai wasn't just performing a magic trick, then these characteristics meant that **Neo Bubbleman's** effect would inevitably be different from the previous **Bubbleman**.
Judai also drew his second card: "As long as **E•HERO Neo Bubbleman** is in face-up position on the field, its name can be treated as **E•HERO Bubbleman**. Therefore, I can equip **Bubbleman's** exclusive Equip Spell Card—**Bubble Blaster**—to him."
A huge cannon barrel appeared out of thin air on **Neo Bubbleman's** shoulder, which he held up. Although it had a name like **Bubble Blaster**, which sounded like a child's toy, based on its appearance, Yugi thought calling it an RPG would be more appropriate.
"**Bubble Blaster** is an exclusive card that only **Bubbleman** can equip. Its effect is to increase the ATK of the equipped monster by 800. With this, **Neo Bubbleman's** ATK will increase to 1600!"
[**E•HERO Neo Bubbleman**] [ATK 800→1600]
Hearing Judai's words, Yugi reminded him: "Are you trying to attack my **Magician's Robe**? But Judai, don't forget the existence of **Swords of Revealing Light**. Its effect won't be lifted until the next turn. And as long as **Swords of Revealing Light** still exists, your monsters cannot declare an attack."
"In that case, why not just destroy it?" Judai flipped over the last card in his hand. "Quick-Play Spell Card, **Mystical Space Typhoon**! Select one Spell/Trap Card on the field and destroy it. I choose to destroy **Swords of Revealing Light**."
"With this, the obstacle is gone!"
As a whirlwind swept across Judai's field, the Spell Card **Swords of Revealing Light**, which had troubled him for two turns, finally disappeared from the field. Now Judai could finally start attacking.
"Alright, I'm finally free! It feels as refreshing as greeting the first morning of the new year wearing brand new underwear." Judai excitedly clenched his fist and commanded, "Then enter my Battle Phase, I will use **Neo Bubbleman** to attack!"
"The target of attack is—"
"**Magician of Black Chaos**!"
"Nani?" Yugi showed a surprised expression. "Using **Neo Bubbleman** with 1600 ATK to attack **Magician of Black Chaos**?"
Yugi, unable to understand Judai's intention, was very confused, but still gave the order: "Although I don't know what you're trying to do, in short, counterattack, **Magician of Black Chaos**!"
As **Neo Bubbleman** pulled the trigger of the rocket launcher-shaped **Bubble Blaster** on his shoulder, **Magician of Black Chaos** also unleashed a magic blast. The black beam of mystical power and the blue stream of foam collided in mid-air, but to Yugi's surprise, **Magician of Black Chaos's** attack was actually pushed back!?
"Boom!"
Watching the destroyed **Magician of Black Chaos**, Hayato commented: "If it were a kicking contest, maybe there'd be a chance, but in a head-to-head beam struggle, looking from here, Yugi is conveniently on the left."
**Metamorphosis**, a forbidden card, could Special Summon powerful suppression monsters like **The Last Warrior from Another Planet** and **Naturia Beast** without material, so it was naturally forbidden.
However, precisely because **Metamorphosis** was forbidden, the real card **Neo Bubbleman** became a card with unclear meaning, because it simply couldn't be used. The effect of his real card is that you must send **Bubbleman** on the field and **Metamorphosis** from your hand to the Graveyard to Special Summon him.
End of Chapter
