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Chapter 500: Talking Down Fails - Without Battle, There Is No Survival!
It was Yugi's turn. He wasn't in a hurry to draw a card and start his turn, but instead asked Paradox, "There's one thing I can't understand. As the era develops and progresses, human material civilization becomes more advanced. Shouldn't the ability to change the world be stronger?"
Among the people present, Paradox could be said to be from the most distant future, while Yugi, or rather Dark Yugi who had appeared at this moment, could be said to be from the most distant past.
Although he hadn't recovered his memories and didn't know who he truly was, Dark Yugi had some understanding of the era a thousand years ago. Compared to a thousand years ago, although some parts of the current world had worsened, overall it was developing in a good direction.
He completely failed to understand Yusei's previous words to Paradox about the conflict between material and spiritual civilization.
"You are wrong, Mutou Yuugi, you haven't seen the true nature of humanity yet, because the era you live in hasn't fully unearthed humanity's inherent flaws."
Paradox paused, "Sloth, envy, wrath, pride, lust, gluttony, and unrestrained greed... The prosperity of material civilization has led to the decline of spiritual civilization. The darkness of the Human Heart, which cannot be suppressed, will swallow the world."
"This cannot be changed by how humans develop civilization, because this is the fundamental nature rooted deep within humanity, because this is humanity's 'Original Sin'!"
"Original Sin..." Yusei frowned, pondering Paradox's words.
Unlike Yugi and Judai, who lived in the past, in Yusei's era, due to the development of the era and the advancement of technology, the gap between the rich and poor had grown increasingly large. Along with this came increasingly unscrupulous scheming between people.
In Yugi's era, even a wealthy scion like Kaiba attended the same School and class as a poor guy like Joey Wheeler . By Judai's time, even Duel Academy had begun to differentiate students based on ability; excellent students enjoyed luxurious villas and private meals, while poor students could only live in collective dormitories and eat pickled radishes.
In Yusei's era, the upper class lived in towering buildings looking down on the entire city, while the lower class didn't even have the qualification to enter those upper areas, only the right to survive in garbage dumps. Even so, they still faced the trouble of having their last remaining living space being taken away.
All of this seemed to be exactly as Paradox said. Although material civilization was gradually strengthening, spiritual civilization was in decline.
"You, Yusei Fudo, who know the historical development of the future you come from, should be able to understand the truth of what I'm saying, right?" Paradox noticed Yusei's deep thought and continued to drop bombshells, "You remember the 'Energy Depletion' I mentioned before, correct?"
"Several decades from now, or rather, just over ten years ago for you, your father, Dr. Fudo, discovered a particle, 'Ener-D'. Using this particle as a power source, he achieved an unprecedented great feat, creating the world's first Perpetual Motion Machine, and named his son, you, after 'Ener-D'."
"The foundation of the Perpetual Motion Machine, the unique property of 'Ener-D', is that it can read the Human Heart. By performing Synchro Summoning during Duels on a D-Wheel, a special wavelength can be connected to the Perpetual Motion Machine. People's elevated Dueling Hearts can generate a large amount of positive 'Ener-D'. This potential energy is absorbed and converted by the Perpetual Motion Machine and supplied back to the D-Wheel in the Duel, generating more 'Ener-D'."
"This cycle continues. As long as there are Duels in the world, an inexhaustible and infinite supply of energy can be provided."
Yusei nodded, "That is indeed correct."
"Since the energy is inexhaustible, how did humanity fall into Energy Depletion? Furthermore, even without the Perpetual Motion Machine providing infinite energy, there are still other finite energy sources available, right? How could it lead to ruin?"
To Yusei's question, Paradox's answer was, "It's also because of the Human Heart, Yusei Fudo. The Perpetual Motion Machine's energy is infinite, but the efficiency of obtaining it has a limit. However, humans, who know not what satisfaction is, will always think 'a little more, just a little more'."
"The 'Zero Reverse' that cost your father, Dr. Fudo, his life was the Perpetual Motion Machine's warning to humanity. But humans are beings who can abandon the future for immediate profit. No one took 'Zero Reverse' to heart, and no one was awakened by it."
Paradox smiled contemptuously, "In the future, humanity's material civilization reached its peak driven by infinite energy, but they still relentlessly demanded endlessly from the world without restraint, and this desire polluted everything else."
Saying this, Paradox pointed his finger at the monsters on his Field.
Corresponding to Mutou Yuugi and Hayato Kobayashi's era, Malefic Red-Eyes Black Dragon.
Corresponding to Judai Yuki's time, Malefic Cyber End Dragon.
And from the Synchro Era, Stardust Dragon and Malefic Paradox Dragon.
Paradox didn't explicitly state it, but even Judai understood his meaning.
"Duel Monsters, too, were polluted by the desire of the Human Heart?"
"In the beginning, Duel Monsters were indeed as pure as they were in your eras, but as the profit generated by Duel Monsters and the interests involved grew larger and larger, even Duelists could no longer Duel purely," Paradox looked at the monsters on the Field and clenched his fist,
"To operate the Perpetual Motion Machine based on 'Ener-D' which can read the Human Heart, one necessary driving force is a passionate Duelist Spirit."
"But when the hearts of the Duelists driving the Perpetual Motion Machine are no longer filled with passion and dreams, 'Ener-D' can no longer remain in a completely positive state. Negative 'Ener-D' even caused the Perpetual Motion Machine to gradually reverse!"
Paradox's words unfolded a scene before Yusei's eyes as if he were there, and he could already imagine that kind of desperate situation: "Could it be..."
"Duel Monsters brought humanity the Perpetual Motion Machine, and it was also Duel Monsters that took away the Perpetual Motion Machine that humanity was not qualified to possess!" Paradox looked down at Yusei and the others. "In the desperate situation of Energy Depletion, there were still people in the future who thought of re-awakening the hope and light in the Human Heart."
His gaze lingered on Yusei's face for a long time, and he couldn't help but recall his companion who, in order to save the world, didn't hesitate to sacrifice himself and replace his personality data with "Yusei Fudo".
"Unfortunately, it was too late."
"The reversing Perpetual Motion Machine self-destructed and went out of control, and the world was destroyed as a result."
After Paradox recounted everything about the future, even Yusei had to admit that such a future was indeed quite desperate.
"My father invented the Perpetual Motion Machine to benefit humanity and solve the energy crisis, but it actually became the root of the sin that destroyed humanity..."
Yusei lowered his head,
"Could it be that the existence of the Perpetual Motion Machine was a mistake..."
Paradox's tone was calm as he looked at Yusei and said, "No, there was nothing wrong with the existence of the Perpetual Motion Machine, because even without the Perpetual Motion Machine, humanity would still self-destruct one day due to their inflated desire. The Perpetual Motion Machine merely accelerated this process."
"The Perpetual Motion Machine is a treasure, but it is a treasure that humanity is not qualified to possess, because humanity has an Original Sin that cannot be eradicated."
"'Ener-D' was born relying on Duel Monsters. As long as Duel Monsters are destroyed, tragedies like 'Zero Reverse' will not occur in the future, and the future will not be destroyed. Although it is regrettable, this is the only method!"
Paradox said firmly, "It doesn't matter what kind of resentment you have towards me. As long as I can save all of humanity, I am willing to become a killer and a butcher!"
"I will destroy the world, and then, I will create the world!"
"You still have a chance now. Give up the battle and entrust the future of the world to me to change!"
Looking at Paradox, Yugi took a deep breath to calm his composure.
Undoubtedly, purely from his standpoint, Paradox was not acting for selfish desire. His actions were driven by a heart of justice that could be called great.
The four of them, Judai, Yugi, Hayato, and Yusei, fought to protect the era that held precious memories with important people, while Paradox fought for countless innocent victims he had never met. Both sides were on the side of justice.
However...
"I'm sorry, Paradox, I completely understand your thoughts and your ideal. But, I'm sorry." Yugi's finger rested on his Duel Disk. "This duel is not a battle between justice and evil, but a struggle between us with conflicting standpoints, with the goal of annihilation!"
"For the future, you are willing to bear the sin of destroying the past, but we also have the resolve to destroy the future in order to protect the present!"
"My turn, draw a card!"
Yugi sharply drew a card. The card he drew left a golden arc in the air, like a single draw from a peerless swordsman!
"Activate Magic Card, Pot of Greed! I draw two cards from my Deck, then Normal Summon Magidogged Rijin in Attack Position."
The Spellcaster dressed as a clown appeared on Yugi's Field. Yugi immediately continued, "While Magidogged Rijin is in the Monster Zone, I can gain an additional Normal Summon/Set of a Spellcaster monster during my Main Phase this turn, in addition to my Normal Summon/Set!"
"Tribute Magidogged Rijin! Normal Summon Dark Magician Girl!"
Dark Magician Girl appeared in the light points as Magidogged Rijin left the Field. However, she read the room and wasn't overly playful or active as usual. She seriously gripped the wand in her hand and nodded to Yugi behind her.
However, due to Malefic Paradox Dragon on Paradox's Field, Dark Magician Girl's power was instantly stripped away.
Dark Magician Girl [2000/1700 → 0/1700]
Yugi also nodded in response. After sending the Tributed Magidogged Rijin to the Graveyard, he spoke again, "When Magidogged Rijin is sent from the Field to the Graveyard, I can add 1 Spellcaster Normal Monster from my Deck or Graveyard to my Hand. I add Dark Magician from my Deck to my Hand."
After searching for the card, Yugi picked up the three cards in his hand and revealed them all at once: "Paradox, we won't retreat. If we don't battle, our era cannot survive!"
"Our era, we will protect it!"
"Activate this Polymerization that Judai gave me! I fuse Buster Blader and Dark Magician from my Hand!"
The Polymerization that Judai had added to Yugi's hand with E•HERO Flash's effect manifested. A vortex drew Dark Magician and Buster Blader from Yugi's Hand.
Subsequently, the mighty magical swordsman appeared!
"The strongest magic to crush darkness, the ultimate blade to subdue evil dragons, manifest on this battlefield that transcends space-time!"
Yugi raised his arm and shouted,
"Fusion Summon! Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin!"
Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin [Level 8 / Dark]
[Spellcaster Type / Fusion / Effect]
[2900 / 2400]
"Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin's ATK will increase by the number of Dragon-Type monsters on both players' Fields and in their Graveyards X 500 points. At this moment, the total number of Dragon-Type monsters is seven, therefore Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin's ATK increases by 3500 points!"
Malefic Paradox Dragon, Malefic Red-Eyes Black Dragon, Stardust Dragon, and in Paradox's Graveyard, Malefic Blue-Eyes White Dragon, Malefic Stardust Dragon, Blue-Eyes White Dragon, and Ultimate Crystal God - Rainbow Dragon. The power of seven Dragon-Type monsters gathered towards Dark Paladin on Yugi's Field, giving it a great boost.
The only drawback was that Paradox's Malefic Cyber End Dragon was the most out of place; despite having "Dragon" in its name, it isn't a Dragon-Type monster, and Yugi didn't pull a top-tier 'Obelisk is also a Dragon' kind of move.
Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin [ATK 2900 → 6400]
Under the power boost from the numerous Dragon-Type monsters, Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin's ATK soared to a high of 6400, more than two Blue-Eyes, truly powerful.
However, along with the power of the Dragon-Type monsters came the effect of Malefic Paradox Dragon.
"A Fusion of Buster Blader, which specifically counters Dragon-Type monsters, and Dark Magician, huh? If I hadn't used Synchro Summoning so unscrupulously to Summon Malefic Paradox Dragon, I might have been defeated right here."
Paradox looked at the Malefic Paradox Dragon on his Field, his mood felt a bit awkward.
In the ruined future, among Paradox and his three companions, only "Jonny", who he never saw eye-to-eye with, used Synchro Monsters. Yet now, even he was using Synchro Monsters, and even relying on Synchro Monsters to win.
His goal was to destroy Duel Monsters, especially Synchro Summoning, but to achieve his goal, he himself was using Synchro Monsters. In some ways, it echoed the name Malefic Paradox Dragon, truly a paradox.
Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin [ATK 6400 → 0]
"It's useless. Your efforts cannot surpass the 'Sin' of Duel Monsters. All resistance is futile." Paradox looked coldly at Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin, whose ATK was reduced to 0.
The combined ATK of his other monsters on the Field besides Malefic Paradox Dragon was 8900. Any monster appearing opposite him would have its ATK reduced by this amount. Ordinary Duel Monsters had no possibility of breaking through this amount.
Mutou Yuugi's efforts, no matter how much it united the power of the monsters on the Field and in the Graveyard, was ultimately futile and couldn't change anything at all.
"As long as the 'Sin' of Duel Monsters exists, as long as Malefic Paradox Dragon is on my Field, your only outcome is defeat, and the future is destined for destruction." He coldly delivered his verdict.
However, Yugi smiled confidently, "Sore wa dou kana?"
"How our future turns out should be decided by us ourselves." Yugi played a card from his hand. "The puzzle of victory is complete. I will personally annihilate your 'Sin' monsters this Turn!"
"Activate Quick-Play Spell Card, Forbidden Chalice! It increases the ATK of 1 monster on the Field by 400, and its effects are negated."
"The monster I choose is your Malefic Paradox Dragon on the Field!"
As Yugi played Forbidden Chalice, a golden cup that seemed capable of granting any wish appeared above Malefic Paradox Dragon's head. Blood-red wine poured out as the golden holy cup tilted!
"Nani!?"
Under Paradox's surprised gaze, Malefic Paradox Dragon, drenched in the red wine, had its power forcibly contracted and restrained. The oppressive aura that had constantly surrounded the Field was completely dispelled!
Malefic Paradox Dragon [ATK 4000 → 4400]
As Malefic Paradox Dragon's power was locked, Dark Magician Girl and Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin, who had been suppressed for a long time, regained their original power, straightened up and stood tall again.
Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin [ATK 0 → 6400]
Dark Magician Girl [0/1700 → 2300/1700]
"Humans carry an ugly side, but conversely, humans also have a side of hope and dreams, existing interdependently like two sides of a coin." Gazing at Paradox, Yugi played another card. "But I believe that humanity's future is absolutely not limited to the single possibility of dark destruction, but holds infinite possibilities filled with radiance!"
"I pay 1000 Life Points! I Activate Magic Card, Diffusion Wave-Motion!"
Mutou Yuugi: [1600 LP → 600 LP]
"Diffusion Wave-Motion?"
"This is bad!"
Paradox was also somewhat surprised after seeing the card Yugi used.
"Diffusion Wave-Motion's effect is: Target 1 Spellcaster monster you control with a Level of 7 or higher; this turn, other monsters you control cannot attack, and the target monster must attack each monster your opponent controls once. Monsters destroyed by this attack cannot activate their effects, and their effects are negated!"
"In other words, Paradox, this Turn you will face a four-hit attack from the only Level 7 or higher Spellcaster monster on my Field - Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin!"
"Enter Battle Phase! And now, I will show you humanity's possibility!"
Yugi waved his hand forward: "Dark Paladin, attack Malefic Red-Eyes Black Dragon!"
"Super Magical Severing Wave Slash!"
Gathering the power of bonds, Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin swung a blade at Paradox's Malefic Red-Eyes Black Dragon. Mystical Power transformed into a slash that flew out and instantly destroyed it!
"Ugh!"
Paradox: [22600 → 18600 LP]
"Next, it's Malefic Cyber End Dragon!"
"Second Super Magical Severing Wave Slash!"
"Ergh!"
Paradox: [18600 → 16200 LP]
"Attack Stardust Dragon!"
"Super Magical Severing Wave Slash, triple strike!"
"Ugh!!"
Paradox: [16200 → 12300 LP]
"The final blow, attack Malefic Paradox Dragon!"
Yugi clenched his fist and said loudly, "Our future, we will decide it!"
"The final Super Magical Severing Wave Slash!"
The surging Mystical Power transformed into a moonlit slash, piercing and cutting off the head of the giant Malefic Paradox Dragon. Immediately, Malefic Paradox Dragon's massive body exploded with a roar!
Even Paradox, standing on the Shinri-go, couldn't stand steady and kept making sounds due to the battle damage:
"Ergh ah!!!"
Paradox: [12300 → 10300 LP]
Smoke enveloped Paradox's Field. Through the hazy smoke and the empty Field, Yugi could see the fallen Paradox getting back up from the D-Wheel in Duel Mode.
"With this, you have no monsters on your Field, Paradox," Yugi said, holding a card in his hand, about to place it on his Duel Disk. "Then my Battle Phase ends, and in Main Phase 2, I—"
"Zzzzt!"
However, Yugi, who was about to insert the card into his Duel Disk, froze. He found that he couldn't place the card in his hand into the Spell & Trap Zone. Looking closer, Yugi was surprised to find that his Duel Disk was showing that he was still in the Battle Phase!?
"Your future, you will decide it. You said that just now, Mutou Yuugi."
Paradox's voice came. Yugi looked up again and saw a huge shadow behind the tall building behind Paradox, as if from the abyss, which had appeared at some point.
"Humans have the power to change the future, you want me to believe that, right?"
In the mind of Paradox, who had straightened his body, scene after scene appeared—
The rampaging Perpetual Motion Machine driving an overwhelming army of Meklord;
War turning all the great achievements of human civilization into ruins and fires;
Countless people dying on the ground and underground;
The Earth turning into a burning fireball.
At the same time, figures appeared in Paradox's mind—
Himself, alone after losing his loved ones, wandering in the doomsday;
Then, the meeting with "that person";
The few survivors huddling together under "his" leadership, and he too received warmth from others;
But, even though "he" sacrificed himself, it was still too late to save the world. His companions grew old and fell one after another.
"That kind of future, that kind of absolutely unacceptable future, I must change it."
"How could I entrust our efforts, and the destiny of the entire world, to you!"
"Just based on the word 'believe'?"
"Impossible!!"
Paradox suddenly raised his head, a red radiance flashing in his eyes. Synchronizing with his movement, two scarlet lights also lit up in the huge shadow of the tall building behind Paradox.
"Mutou Yuugi, you said it, didn't you? Your future is decided by yourselves." Paradox had a distorted expression and pressed the button on his Duel Disk to activate a Set Card. "Then, conversely, my future must also be decided by me, decided not to be entrusted to you!"
"Open Trap Card, Malefic Paradigm Shift!"
Paradox laughed wildly, surrounded by the phantom of the Set Card he activated. The black shadow behind him surged up from the ground, swallowing half of Paradox's body!
"When Malefic Paradox Dragon is destroyed, I will Tribute my body and halve my Life Points,"
"Special Summon Malefic Truth Dragon from my Deck!"
Paradox: [10300 → 5150 LP]
Even larger than Malefic Paradox Dragon's body, the figure of Malefic Truth Dragon emerged from the shadow and manifested!
"Roar!!!"
It was Yugi's turn. He wasn't in a hurry to draw a card and start his turn, but instead asked Paradox, "There's one thing I can't understand. As the era develops and progresses, human material civilization becomes more advanced. Shouldn't the ability to change the world be stronger?"
Among the people present, Paradox could be said to be from the most distant future, while Yugi, or rather Dark Yugi who had appeared at this moment, could be said to be from the most distant past.
Although he hadn't recovered his memories and didn't know who he truly was, Dark Yugi had some understanding of the era a thousand years ago. Compared to a thousand years ago, although some parts of the current world had worsened, overall it was developing in a good direction.
He completely failed to understand Yusei's previous words to Paradox about the conflict between material and spiritual civilization.
"You are wrong, Mutou Yuugi, you haven't seen the true nature of humanity yet, because the era you live in hasn't fully unearthed humanity's inherent flaws."
Paradox paused, "Sloth, envy, wrath, pride, lust, gluttony, and unrestrained greed... The prosperity of material civilization has led to the decline of spiritual civilization. The darkness of the Human Heart, which cannot be suppressed, will swallow the world."
"This cannot be changed by how humans develop civilization, because this is the fundamental nature rooted deep within humanity, because this is humanity's 'Original Sin'!"
"Original Sin..." Yusei frowned, pondering Paradox's words.
Unlike Yugi and Judai, who lived in the past, in Yusei's era, due to the development of the era and the advancement of technology, the gap between the rich and poor had grown increasingly large. Along with this came increasingly unscrupulous scheming between people.
In Yugi's era, even a wealthy scion like Kaiba attended the same School and class as a poor guy like Joey Wheeler . By Judai's time, even Duel Academy had begun to differentiate students based on ability; excellent students enjoyed luxurious villas and private meals, while poor students could only live in collective dormitories and eat pickled radishes.
In Yusei's era, the upper class lived in towering buildings looking down on the entire city, while the lower class didn't even have the qualification to enter those upper areas, only the right to survive in garbage dumps. Even so, they still faced the trouble of having their last remaining living space being taken away.
All of this seemed to be exactly as Paradox said. Although material civilization was gradually strengthening, spiritual civilization was in decline.
"You, Yusei Fudo, who know the historical development of the future you come from, should be able to understand the truth of what I'm saying, right?" Paradox noticed Yusei's deep thought and continued to drop bombshells, "You remember the 'Energy Depletion' I mentioned before, correct?"
"Several decades from now, or rather, just over ten years ago for you, your father, Dr. Fudo, discovered a particle, 'Ener-D'. Using this particle as a power source, he achieved an unprecedented great feat, creating the world's first Perpetual Motion Machine, and named his son, you, after 'Ener-D'."
"The foundation of the Perpetual Motion Machine, the unique property of 'Ener-D', is that it can read the Human Heart. By performing Synchro Summoning during Duels on a D-Wheel, a special wavelength can be connected to the Perpetual Motion Machine. People's elevated Dueling Hearts can generate a large amount of positive 'Ener-D'. This potential energy is absorbed and converted by the Perpetual Motion Machine and supplied back to the D-Wheel in the Duel, generating more 'Ener-D'."
"This cycle continues. As long as there are Duels in the world, an inexhaustible and infinite supply of energy can be provided."
Yusei nodded, "That is indeed correct."
"Since the energy is inexhaustible, how did humanity fall into Energy Depletion? Furthermore, even without the Perpetual Motion Machine providing infinite energy, there are still other finite energy sources available, right? How could it lead to ruin?"
To Yusei's question, Paradox's answer was, "It's also because of the Human Heart, Yusei Fudo. The Perpetual Motion Machine's energy is infinite, but the efficiency of obtaining it has a limit. However, humans, who know not what satisfaction is, will always think 'a little more, just a little more'."
"The 'Zero Reverse' that cost your father, Dr. Fudo, his life was the Perpetual Motion Machine's warning to humanity. But humans are beings who can abandon the future for immediate profit. No one took 'Zero Reverse' to heart, and no one was awakened by it."
Paradox smiled contemptuously, "In the future, humanity's material civilization reached its peak driven by infinite energy, but they still relentlessly demanded endlessly from the world without restraint, and this desire polluted everything else."
Saying this, Paradox pointed his finger at the monsters on his Field.
Corresponding to Mutou Yuugi and Hayato Kobayashi's era, Malefic Red-Eyes Black Dragon.
Corresponding to Judai Yuki's time, Malefic Cyber End Dragon.
And from the Synchro Era, Stardust Dragon and Malefic Paradox Dragon.
Paradox didn't explicitly state it, but even Judai understood his meaning.
"Duel Monsters, too, were polluted by the desire of the Human Heart?"
"In the beginning, Duel Monsters were indeed as pure as they were in your eras, but as the profit generated by Duel Monsters and the interests involved grew larger and larger, even Duelists could no longer Duel purely," Paradox looked at the monsters on the Field and clenched his fist,
"To operate the Perpetual Motion Machine based on 'Ener-D' which can read the Human Heart, one necessary driving force is a passionate Duelist Spirit."
"But when the hearts of the Duelists driving the Perpetual Motion Machine are no longer filled with passion and dreams, 'Ener-D' can no longer remain in a completely positive state. Negative 'Ener-D' even caused the Perpetual Motion Machine to gradually reverse!"
Paradox's words unfolded a scene before Yusei's eyes as if he were there, and he could already imagine that kind of desperate situation: "Could it be..."
"Duel Monsters brought humanity the Perpetual Motion Machine, and it was also Duel Monsters that took away the Perpetual Motion Machine that humanity was not qualified to possess!" Paradox looked down at Yusei and the others. "In the desperate situation of Energy Depletion, there were still people in the future who thought of re-awakening the hope and light in the Human Heart."
His gaze lingered on Yusei's face for a long time, and he couldn't help but recall his companion who, in order to save the world, didn't hesitate to sacrifice himself and replace his personality data with "Yusei Fudo".
"Unfortunately, it was too late."
"The reversing Perpetual Motion Machine self-destructed and went out of control, and the world was destroyed as a result."
After Paradox recounted everything about the future, even Yusei had to admit that such a future was indeed quite desperate.
"My father invented the Perpetual Motion Machine to benefit humanity and solve the energy crisis, but it actually became the root of the sin that destroyed humanity..."
Yusei lowered his head,
"Could it be that the existence of the Perpetual Motion Machine was a mistake..."
Paradox's tone was calm as he looked at Yusei and said, "No, there was nothing wrong with the existence of the Perpetual Motion Machine, because even without the Perpetual Motion Machine, humanity would still self-destruct one day due to their inflated desire. The Perpetual Motion Machine merely accelerated this process."
"The Perpetual Motion Machine is a treasure, but it is a treasure that humanity is not qualified to possess, because humanity has an Original Sin that cannot be eradicated."
"'Ener-D' was born relying on Duel Monsters. As long as Duel Monsters are destroyed, tragedies like 'Zero Reverse' will not occur in the future, and the future will not be destroyed. Although it is regrettable, this is the only method!"
Paradox said firmly, "It doesn't matter what kind of resentment you have towards me. As long as I can save all of humanity, I am willing to become a killer and a butcher!"
"I will destroy the world, and then, I will create the world!"
"You still have a chance now. Give up the battle and entrust the future of the world to me to change!"
Looking at Paradox, Yugi took a deep breath to calm his composure.
Undoubtedly, purely from his standpoint, Paradox was not acting for selfish desire. His actions were driven by a heart of justice that could be called great.
The four of them, Judai, Yugi, Hayato, and Yusei, fought to protect the era that held precious memories with important people, while Paradox fought for countless innocent victims he had never met. Both sides were on the side of justice.
However...
"I'm sorry, Paradox, I completely understand your thoughts and your ideal. But, I'm sorry." Yugi's finger rested on his Duel Disk. "This duel is not a battle between justice and evil, but a struggle between us with conflicting standpoints, with the goal of annihilation!"
"For the future, you are willing to bear the sin of destroying the past, but we also have the resolve to destroy the future in order to protect the present!"
"My turn, draw a card!"
Yugi sharply drew a card. The card he drew left a golden arc in the air, like a single draw from a peerless swordsman!
"Activate Magic Card, Pot of Greed! I draw two cards from my Deck, then Normal Summon Magidogged Rijin in Attack Position."
The Spellcaster dressed as a clown appeared on Yugi's Field. Yugi immediately continued, "While Magidogged Rijin is in the Monster Zone, I can gain an additional Normal Summon/Set of a Spellcaster monster during my Main Phase this turn, in addition to my Normal Summon/Set!"
"Tribute Magidogged Rijin! Normal Summon Dark Magician Girl!"
Dark Magician Girl appeared in the light points as Magidogged Rijin left the Field. However, she read the room and wasn't overly playful or active as usual. She seriously gripped the wand in her hand and nodded to Yugi behind her.
However, due to Malefic Paradox Dragon on Paradox's Field, Dark Magician Girl's power was instantly stripped away.
Dark Magician Girl [2000/1700 → 0/1700]
Yugi also nodded in response. After sending the Tributed Magidogged Rijin to the Graveyard, he spoke again, "When Magidogged Rijin is sent from the Field to the Graveyard, I can add 1 Spellcaster Normal Monster from my Deck or Graveyard to my Hand. I add Dark Magician from my Deck to my Hand."
After searching for the card, Yugi picked up the three cards in his hand and revealed them all at once: "Paradox, we won't retreat. If we don't battle, our era cannot survive!"
"Our era, we will protect it!"
"Activate this Polymerization that Judai gave me! I fuse Buster Blader and Dark Magician from my Hand!"
The Polymerization that Judai had added to Yugi's hand with E•HERO Flash's effect manifested. A vortex drew Dark Magician and Buster Blader from Yugi's Hand.
Subsequently, the mighty magical swordsman appeared!
"The strongest magic to crush darkness, the ultimate blade to subdue evil dragons, manifest on this battlefield that transcends space-time!"
Yugi raised his arm and shouted,
"Fusion Summon! Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin!"
Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin [Level 8 / Dark]
[Spellcaster Type / Fusion / Effect]
[2900 / 2400]
"Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin's ATK will increase by the number of Dragon-Type monsters on both players' Fields and in their Graveyards X 500 points. At this moment, the total number of Dragon-Type monsters is seven, therefore Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin's ATK increases by 3500 points!"
Malefic Paradox Dragon, Malefic Red-Eyes Black Dragon, Stardust Dragon, and in Paradox's Graveyard, Malefic Blue-Eyes White Dragon, Malefic Stardust Dragon, Blue-Eyes White Dragon, and Ultimate Crystal God - Rainbow Dragon. The power of seven Dragon-Type monsters gathered towards Dark Paladin on Yugi's Field, giving it a great boost.
The only drawback was that Paradox's Malefic Cyber End Dragon was the most out of place; despite having "Dragon" in its name, it isn't a Dragon-Type monster, and Yugi didn't pull a top-tier 'Obelisk is also a Dragon' kind of move.
Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin [ATK 2900 → 6400]
Under the power boost from the numerous Dragon-Type monsters, Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin's ATK soared to a high of 6400, more than two Blue-Eyes, truly powerful.
However, along with the power of the Dragon-Type monsters came the effect of Malefic Paradox Dragon.
"A Fusion of Buster Blader, which specifically counters Dragon-Type monsters, and Dark Magician, huh? If I hadn't used Synchro Summoning so unscrupulously to Summon Malefic Paradox Dragon, I might have been defeated right here."
Paradox looked at the Malefic Paradox Dragon on his Field, his mood felt a bit awkward.
In the ruined future, among Paradox and his three companions, only "Jonny", who he never saw eye-to-eye with, used Synchro Monsters. Yet now, even he was using Synchro Monsters, and even relying on Synchro Monsters to win.
His goal was to destroy Duel Monsters, especially Synchro Summoning, but to achieve his goal, he himself was using Synchro Monsters. In some ways, it echoed the name Malefic Paradox Dragon, truly a paradox.
Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin [ATK 6400 → 0]
"It's useless. Your efforts cannot surpass the 'Sin' of Duel Monsters. All resistance is futile." Paradox looked coldly at Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin, whose ATK was reduced to 0.
The combined ATK of his other monsters on the Field besides Malefic Paradox Dragon was 8900. Any monster appearing opposite him would have its ATK reduced by this amount. Ordinary Duel Monsters had no possibility of breaking through this amount.
Mutou Yuugi's efforts, no matter how much it united the power of the monsters on the Field and in the Graveyard, was ultimately futile and couldn't change anything at all.
"As long as the 'Sin' of Duel Monsters exists, as long as Malefic Paradox Dragon is on my Field, your only outcome is defeat, and the future is destined for destruction." He coldly delivered his verdict.
However, Yugi smiled confidently, "Sore wa dou kana?"
"How our future turns out should be decided by us ourselves." Yugi played a card from his hand. "The puzzle of victory is complete. I will personally annihilate your 'Sin' monsters this Turn!"
"Activate Quick-Play Spell Card, Forbidden Chalice! It increases the ATK of 1 monster on the Field by 400, and its effects are negated."
"The monster I choose is your Malefic Paradox Dragon on the Field!"
As Yugi played Forbidden Chalice, a golden cup that seemed capable of granting any wish appeared above Malefic Paradox Dragon's head. Blood-red wine poured out as the golden holy cup tilted!
"Nani!?"
Under Paradox's surprised gaze, Malefic Paradox Dragon, drenched in the red wine, had its power forcibly contracted and restrained. The oppressive aura that had constantly surrounded the Field was completely dispelled!
Malefic Paradox Dragon [ATK 4000 → 4400]
As Malefic Paradox Dragon's power was locked, Dark Magician Girl and Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin, who had been suppressed for a long time, regained their original power, straightened up and stood tall again.
Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin [ATK 0 → 6400]
Dark Magician Girl [0/1700 → 2300/1700]
"Humans carry an ugly side, but conversely, humans also have a side of hope and dreams, existing interdependently like two sides of a coin." Gazing at Paradox, Yugi played another card. "But I believe that humanity's future is absolutely not limited to the single possibility of dark destruction, but holds infinite possibilities filled with radiance!"
"I pay 1000 Life Points! I Activate Magic Card, Diffusion Wave-Motion!"
Mutou Yuugi: [1600 LP → 600 LP]
"Diffusion Wave-Motion?"
"This is bad!"
Paradox was also somewhat surprised after seeing the card Yugi used.
"Diffusion Wave-Motion's effect is: Target 1 Spellcaster monster you control with a Level of 7 or higher; this turn, other monsters you control cannot attack, and the target monster must attack each monster your opponent controls once. Monsters destroyed by this attack cannot activate their effects, and their effects are negated!"
"In other words, Paradox, this Turn you will face a four-hit attack from the only Level 7 or higher Spellcaster monster on my Field - Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin!"
"Enter Battle Phase! And now, I will show you humanity's possibility!"
Yugi waved his hand forward: "Dark Paladin, attack Malefic Red-Eyes Black Dragon!"
"Super Magical Severing Wave Slash!"
Gathering the power of bonds, Super Magical Swordsman - Dark Paladin swung a blade at Paradox's Malefic Red-Eyes Black Dragon. Mystical Power transformed into a slash that flew out and instantly destroyed it!
"Ugh!"
Paradox: [22600 → 18600 LP]
"Next, it's Malefic Cyber End Dragon!"
"Second Super Magical Severing Wave Slash!"
"Ergh!"
Paradox: [18600 → 16200 LP]
"Attack Stardust Dragon!"
"Super Magical Severing Wave Slash, triple strike!"
"Ugh!!"
Paradox: [16200 → 12300 LP]
"The final blow, attack Malefic Paradox Dragon!"
Yugi clenched his fist and said loudly, "Our future, we will decide it!"
"The final Super Magical Severing Wave Slash!"
The surging Mystical Power transformed into a moonlit slash, piercing and cutting off the head of the giant Malefic Paradox Dragon. Immediately, Malefic Paradox Dragon's massive body exploded with a roar!
Even Paradox, standing on the Shinri-go, couldn't stand steady and kept making sounds due to the battle damage:
"Ergh ah!!!"
Paradox: [12300 → 10300 LP]
Smoke enveloped Paradox's Field. Through the hazy smoke and the empty Field, Yugi could see the fallen Paradox getting back up from the D-Wheel in Duel Mode.
"With this, you have no monsters on your Field, Paradox," Yugi said, holding a card in his hand, about to place it on his Duel Disk. "Then my Battle Phase ends, and in Main Phase 2, I—"
"Zzzzt!"
However, Yugi, who was about to insert the card into his Duel Disk, froze. He found that he couldn't place the card in his hand into the Spell & Trap Zone. Looking closer, Yugi was surprised to find that his Duel Disk was showing that he was still in the Battle Phase!?
"Your future, you will decide it. You said that just now, Mutou Yuugi."
Paradox's voice came. Yugi looked up again and saw a huge shadow behind the tall building behind Paradox, as if from the abyss, which had appeared at some point.
"Humans have the power to change the future, you want me to believe that, right?"
In the mind of Paradox, who had straightened his body, scene after scene appeared—
The rampaging Perpetual Motion Machine driving an overwhelming army of Meklord;
War turning all the great achievements of human civilization into ruins and fires;
Countless people dying on the ground and underground;
The Earth turning into a burning fireball.
At the same time, figures appeared in Paradox's mind—
Himself, alone after losing his loved ones, wandering in the doomsday;
Then, the meeting with "that person";
The few survivors huddling together under "his" leadership, and he too received warmth from others;
But, even though "he" sacrificed himself, it was still too late to save the world. His companions grew old and fell one after another.
"That kind of future, that kind of absolutely unacceptable future, I must change it."
"How could I entrust our efforts, and the destiny of the entire world, to you!"
"Just based on the word 'believe'?"
"Impossible!!"
Paradox suddenly raised his head, a red radiance flashing in his eyes. Synchronizing with his movement, two scarlet lights also lit up in the huge shadow of the tall building behind Paradox.
"Mutou Yuugi, you said it, didn't you? Your future is decided by yourselves." Paradox had a distorted expression and pressed the button on his Duel Disk to activate a Set Card. "Then, conversely, my future must also be decided by me, decided not to be entrusted to you!"
"Open Trap Card, Malefic Paradigm Shift!"
Paradox laughed wildly, surrounded by the phantom of the Set Card he activated. The black shadow behind him surged up from the ground, swallowing half of Paradox's body!
"When Malefic Paradox Dragon is destroyed, I will Tribute my body and halve my Life Points,"
"Special Summon Malefic Truth Dragon from my Deck!"
Paradox: [10300 → 5150 LP]
Even larger than Malefic Paradox Dragon's body, the figure of Malefic Truth Dragon emerged from the shadow and manifested!
"Roar!!!"
