//------------------------------// // Episode 2 [Part 4] – Ties of Friendship // Story: Heart of the Cards // by AspirantWriter //------------------------------// “This feeling?! It can’t be!” The Number shouted in rage as the golden sphere around Dusk begun to glow brightly and soon blinded him. The mares were also blinded by the flash, but suddenly felt the tendrils across their stomach and neck weaken. Soon, they vanish as the mares were finally free as they drop to the floor. At the same time, the golden sphere begun to vanish as well. “We’re free!” Dash said happily as she flew to the air. “But… what about Dusk?” Fluttershy was worried as she and the others watched the sphere disappear. Much to their joy, they saw that Dusk was alright. “Dusk!” They cried as they ran towards him and gave a hug. However, they went at the same time and found themselves now in a group hug. It didn’t bother him or the mares though. The group hug was very comforting after all they been through. “Easy now you guys.” Dusk said with a smile on his face as look around his surroundings. As everypony broke their hug, Pinkie soon notice his new duel disk and deck in Dusk’s hooves. “Wow! You actually had replacements after all.” “What do you…” Twilight questioned before she noticed as well. “Where did you get those?” “I know you have many questions, but I need to defeat Number 40.” Dusk replied as he turned towards the Number across the chamber. “What? What did you…” Rarity tried to say, but the stallion merely put his hoof close to her lips. “We are still trapped here. Look around.” The group look around the chamber as saw that the barriers on the windows and the entrance were still active. “When I am done, I promise to explain everything to you all when we get back. Everything.” Dusk declared to the mares and they nodded in agreement. With that done, Dusk approached Number 40 as he put on the new duel disk and inserted the deck. The Number regained its sight and saw Dusk approach as its eyes glowed with rage. “So… Number 39 chose you…” “Apparently the case, Number 40.” “The nerve of…” Number 40 raised its left arm into the air as a jagged duel disk appeared on its forearm. It was black with purple outlines and its blade appeared like a saw. “So you are now in the mood for a duel?” Dusk then stood on his hind legs as he prepared himself. “I wanted to avoid a duel, but…” The Number smiled darkly as he inserted a deck into his duel disk. “I have the opportunity to destroy Number 39 once and for all!” “Is that your deck or one of mine?” Dusk questioned since he had to give the Number his decks in exchange for the mares’ life. “This is mine.” Number 40 stated as it gazes upon Dusk’s deck in his duel disk. “I don’t know deck Number 39 gave you, but it will do little to stop me.” “We will see about that.” Their duel disks begun to emit their usual glow; signalling that their functions are now active. “Solid Reality Vision Link established.” The voice echoed across the chamber. The screens appeared above Dusk and Number 40 as they drew their cards from their respective decks. “DUEL!” They both yelled out as the mares watched the duel begin. [Dusk’s Life Points: 8000] [Number 40’s Life Points: 8000] [Turn 1: Number 40] [Dusk’s Cards in Hoof: 5] [Number 40’s Cards in Hand: 5] “As the superior one, I’ll go first. Draw!” Number 40 drew his card and then played a card. “I summon Gimmick Puppet Egg Head in Attack mode.” On Number 40’s field, a doll-like monster appeared. It's face covers the front of its egg-like body and with its limbs, made a proper bow. [Gimmick Puppet Egg Head] [ATK: 1600] [DEF: 1200] [Level: 4] ‘I don’t recall hearing about such a card…’ Dusk thought. “Egh! That is not a cute doll!” Rarity noted on the monster’s appearance. “True that. I doubt anypony would want something like that. Applejack agreed as she found its face rather disturbing. “I will activate Egg Head’s special effect.” Number 40 said as it discarded a card from its hand to the Graveyard. “By discarding a "Gimmick Puppet" monster, I can then activate one of two effects. I chose the first, which inflicts 800 points of damage to you.” Dusk then was covered by a orange aura which he groaned in pain before it vanished. [Dusk’s Life Points: 8000 (-)> 7200] “Dusk taken damage…” Fluttershy said in worry. Number 40 smiled as the Field Spell slot of his duel disk opened. “Then I play the Field Spell, Despair Moon.” Upon place the card, the ceiling of the ruin suddenly vanished. Dusk and the others looked up and saw a darkened moon in the night sky void of stars. “What is this?” Dusk questioned. “Your time limit.” Number 40 exclaimed. “During each End Phase, a Despair Counter is placed to this card. However, I can send this card to the Graveyard during my Main Phase to inflict 600 points of damage to my opponent for every Despair Counter placed on this card. Not only that, this card cannot be destroyed by card effects.” “So if I prolong this duel, then Despair Moon will finish me off.” Number 40 merely chuckled. “I then set two cards face-down. I end my turn.” Upon that, a red star appeared near the moon; showing the counter being placed on the Field Spell. [Despair Moon - Despair Counter: 0 (+)> 1] [Turn 2: Dusk] [Dusk’s Cards in Hoof: 5] [Number 40’s Cards in Hand: 3] “It my turn now. Draw!” Dusk looked at the card he drawn and then his hoof. ‘I don’t recognize these cards…’ Dusk thought. ‘But do feel a link to them…’ It was then he grabbed a card from his hoof and played it. “Since I have no monsters on the field, I can Special Summon Photon Thrasher in Attack mode.” On Dusk’s field, an unusual warrior appeared, wearing blue armor wielding a large blade. The most noticeable aspect was that most of its limbs and part of its chest were glowing light blue with star-like sparkles. [Photon Thrasher] [ATK: 2100] [DEF: 0] [Level: 4] “Oooh!” Pinkie said as she gazes on the illuminated parts of the monster. “Not to mention how strong is that monster. Now he could get rid that creepy doll.” Dash was more focused on its high ATK. “Now Photon Thrasher! Destroy Egg Head!” The warrior then charged at the doll as it raised its blade. However, Number 40 wasn’t worried. “How foolish of you! I play my Trap! Scrap-Iron Scarecrow!” As the card flipped up, a scarecrow made of iron and scraps appeared from it and moved in front of Photon Trasher. The warrior ended striking it instead of Egg Head. “When my opponent declares an attack, I can negate the attack.” Number 40 stated. “Scare-Iron Scarecrow? Not good.” Dusk said as he knew it was a troublesome card to deal with. “What do you mean?” Twilight questioned, which she learned quickly when she saw the Trap returning back to its face-down position. “Hey! Why is that card still there?” Dash stated, which Dusk answered. “When Scare-Iron Scarecrow is activated, it is set face-down instead of going it to the Graveyard.” “That’s foul!” The pegasus said angrily to Number 40, who merely smirked. “If that is the case, then I place three cards face-down and end my turn.” After that, Dusk notice another red star appeared near the moon. [Despair Moon - Despair Counter: 1 (+)> 2] [Turn 3: Number 40] [Dusk’s Cards in Hoof: 2] [Number 40’s Cards in Hand: 3] “It is my turn. Draw!” Number 40 drew his card and smiled as he looked at it. “I Special Summon Gimmick Puppet Magnet Doll in Attack mode.” Another doll-like monster appeared Egg Head. It was made of rusted metal and seen better days. [Gimmick Puppet Magnet Doll] [ATK: 1000] [DEF: 1000] [Level: 8] “If my opponent controls a monster, and all monsters I control are "Gimmick Puppet" monsters, then I can Special Summon this card from your hand.” Number 40 explained as it then pointed to Egg Head. “I then activate Egg Head’s special effect once again. By discard a "Gimmick Puppet" monster, I will activate its second effect. Now it’s Level becomes Level 8 until the End Phase.” After Number 40 discarded a card, Egg Head’s eyes glowed as its Level changed. [Gimmick Puppet Egg Head] [Level: 4 (+)> 8] “Two Level 8 monster? You don’t mean to…” Dusk soon realize what Number 40 intentions were. “Yes Number Hunter! You and these ponies will bear witness to…” Number 40 stopped when he notices the alicorn beside beginning to wake up. “Hey, she is getting up.” Twilight said as she and the others watched as the alicorn look around. She was startled when she saw the ongoing duel. Before she could say anything, black tendrils appeared below and wrapped around her mouth before continuing to the rest of her body. “What are you doing?!” Dusk yelled out as he and the others looked at Number 40 in anger for his action. “Despite her state, I can see that there is some use for her.” Number 40 smiled darkly at the bounded alicorn, who was struggling to break free. “Where was I… Yes! Bear witness to my power!” Much to everyponies’ surprise, Number 40’s form turned into a shapeless aura and flew into the air. The duel disk and the cards fell to the ground. “I overlay my Level 8 Egg Head and Magnet Doll! With these two monsters, I build the Overlay Network! Xyz Summon!” Number 40’s voice was heard from the shapeless aura. As its monsters become purple lights and flew into the vortex portal that now appeared, Number 40 then much to Dusk’s shock, entered the portal as well. “What that thing doing?!” Dash exclaimed as everypony was wondering was going to happen. “I think we are going to see Number 40’s true form…” Dusk said. Despite not being visible, Number 40’s voice echo across the chamber as the portal exploded. “Tremble before me! Tremble before Number 40: Gimmick Puppet of Strings!” From the portal came out a large, dark coloured humanoid doll wielding a massive sword with an open center. It had one mechanical wing to its left side, which a symbol shaped by the number 40 was visible. Two yellow orbs were circling around the Number. However, the most disturbing aspect of the Number was a deep split starting from the left side of the Number’s neck and onwards to the stomach, held only by a set of strings. [Number 40: Gimmick Puppet of Strings] [ATK: 3000] [DEF: 2000] [Rank: 8] “Eeeeeek!” Fluttershy screamed upon seeing the Number’s twisted appearance. “Okay! Are all these Numbers freaky-looking or what?!” Dash shouted, remembering Number 22’s appearance and now she have seen Number 40’s own. “So this is what you would look like if you drain the magic out of the Elements, Number 40.” Dusk said. “Indeed.” Everypony saw the puppet’s mouth actually moved, showing Number 40 did indeed become the monster. “Know that even in this form, I can still play my cards. It was then the black tendrils that the wrapped around the alicorn then reached for the Number’s duel disk and cards. Dusk could see the fear in the alicorn’s eyes and help motivated him to defeat Number 40 as quickly as possible. “I then summon Gimmick Puppet Des Troy in Attack mode.” As one of the tendrils placed the card, a horse-like monster made of humanoid doll parts appeared beside Number 40. [Gimmick Puppet Des Troy] [ATK: 1000] [DEF: 2000] [Level: 4] The mares were speechless as they looked at the monster; a twisted mockery of their kind. “Next I play my face-down, Card of Sanctity. We both draw until we have six cards.” Dusk drew his cards while the black tendrils did it for Number 40. He drew four cards, while the Number drew six cards. “Now I will attack Photon Thrasher with Des Troy!” “What?!” Dusk was shocked and it was shared with the rest of the ponies. “Photon Thrasher is much stronger.” Number 40 didn’t seem to care as he still ordered the attack. His monster charged at the warrior, but it was quickly destroyed after being cleaved in half. Number 40 however didn’t flinch when his Life Points went down. [Number 40’s Life Points: 8000 (-)> 6900] “Now I activate Des Troy’s special effect.” Suddenly, a portal appeared at each side of Number 40. “When this card is sent to the Graveyard, I can Special Summon one or two "Gimmick Puppet" monsters from my hand.” “I Special Summon two Gimmick Puppet Shadow Feeler in Defense mode.” At each side of Number 40, two disturbing doll-like monsters appeared; looking like two blue humanoid dolls on their fours. However, their heads were attached to each by a grey humanoid doll torso with arms. They lowered themselves like they trying to protect themselves. [Gimmick Puppet Shadow Feeler] [ATK: 1000] [DEF: 1000] [Level: 8] [Gimmick Puppet Shadow Feeler] [ATK: 1000] [DEF: 1000] [Level: 8] “I don’t know what to say…” Twilight muttered as she found Number 40’s monsters to be getting more and more disturbing. The thought is shared amongst the mares as well. “Next I banish Des Troy from my Graveyard to Special Summon Gimmick Puppet Twilight Joker in Defense mode.” Now a doll-like monster dressed like a jester appeared, but had a large scythe fused to its left wrist. It merely placed its scythe in front of its face. [Gimmick Puppet Twilight Joker] [ATK: 800] [DEF: 1600] [Level: 8] “Hey! Clowns supposed to be funny-looking! Not scary-looking!” Pinkie stated. ‘Number 40 must be bolstering its defences…” Dusk noted mentally. “Now taste my blade! I, Gimmick Puppet of String attacks..!” “Trap activate! Half or Nothing!” Dusk yelled as he pointed to one of his face-downs. “What?” Number 40 muttered as he stopped in its tracks as the Trap begun to activate. “During my opponent's Battle Phase, my opponent chooses one of the following effects. One is to halve the ATK of all monsters you currently control until the end of the Battle Phase and the other is to end the Battle Phase.” Number 40 growled in annoyance. “Fine. I will end the Battle phase, but I am not done yet.” Number 40 said as he raised its sword. “I detach an Overlay Unit from myself, Gimmick Puppet of Strings!” One of the orbs circling Number 40 then flew to the Number’s sword and disappeared. “Except for this card, one String Counter are placed on all face-up monsters.” “String Counters?” Dusk muttered as Photon Thrasher and Number 40’s monsters were lightly wrapped in string; representing the counter. “You will see what happens during you next End Phase. I then place a card face-down. I end my turn.” Number 40 said as another red star appeared near the moon. [Despair Moon - Despair Counter: 2 (+)> 3] [Turn 4: Dusk] [Dusk’s Cards in Hoof: 6] [Number 40's Cards in Hand: 2] “Its my turn. Draw!” Dusk drew his card. “I summon Photon Crusher in Attack mode.” Beside Photon Thrasher appeared another warrior almost identical to it, wearing green armor and wielding a large double-ended mace. [Photon Crusher] [ATK: 2000] [DEF: 0] [Level: 8] Dusk then heard the same voice from before in his mind. He closed his eyes as he listened. ‘Its time… Summon me…’ Upon hearing it, the stallion opened his eyes and pointed to his monsters. “I overlay my Level 4 Photon Thrasher and Photon Crusher!” Dusk’s monsters then transformed into golden light and flew into the air just as the vortex portal reappeared, but on Dusk’s field. “With these two monsters, I build the Overlay Network! Xyz Summon!” As the two golden lights entered the portal, it exploded and slowly reveal an unusual form. The monster appeared to be white wings with gold outlines curled around something that appears to be a sword. At the front center where the wings failed to cover, there was an aqua-coloured orb. “Show yourself! Number 39!” “Number?!” The mares shouted in shock and soon saw a symbol shaped like the number 39 appearing near Dusk’s cutie mark. “I entrust both my hopes and wishes upon your wings, warrior of light! Appear Utopia!” Soon, the wings of the Number soon uncurled and the sword form begun to shift itself. Everypony watched as it became a white and golden winged warrior; its two Overlay Units circling around it. On its left shoulder was the same symbol that appeared near Dusk’s cutie mark. [Number 39: Utopia] [ATK: 2500] [DEF: 2000] [Rank: 4] “Ooooh…” Dash stared at the shining warrior in front of her. “It looks so cool!” “Shiny as well!” Pinkie followed up. Much of the group quickly agreed it was a welcome sight after seeing Number 40’s disturbing doll monsters. The bounded alicorn couldn’t say anything due to gagged, but felt relief enter her heart upon seeing Utopia. “Are you okay Dusk?!” Twilight however didn’t feel the same. She saw what the Numbers could do and was worried for the stallion. “I am fine Twilight.” He assured her. “Number 39 isn’t a malicious force.” “But…” “I said I will explain everything later. Have faith in me.” Dusk then looked upon Number 40 as he saw the puppet’s face scowling at Utopia. “So… You finally revealed yourself Number 39.” However, the golden warrior didn’t say a word. “I remember that you’re not very talkative…” Number 40 growled. “It is still my turn.” Dusk said as he played another card. “I activate Galaxy Cyclone, which I can destroy one set Spell or Trap card on the field.” “And I chose your Trap.” He then pointed to the set card which he knew was Scrap-Iron Scarecrow. In a few moments, a starry cyclone appeared and destroyed the set card. “Next I play the Spell, Half Shut. I can target a monster on the field and prevent it from being destroyed in battle, but its ATK is cut in half until the End Phase. I chose Gimmick Puppet of Strings!” “What?” Number 40 said as it was covered in a blue aura. [Number 40: Gimmick Puppet of Strings] [ATK: 3000 (-)> 1500] “Go Utopia! Attack Gimmick Puppet of String!” Everypony watched as Utopia drew one of its swords from its waist, throwing the sword into the air as it spun. “Rising Sun Slash!” The warrior dashed at Number 40, catching its sword as it descended and delivered a powerful slash. “Agh!” Number 40 yelled as he felt the attack. Despite not being destroyed due Half Shut, it still took damage. [Number 40’s Life Points: 6900 (-)> 5900] “I end my turn.” Dusk said as Half Shut’s effect worn off from Gimmick Puppet of Strings. [Number 40: Gimmick Puppet of Strings] [ATK: 1500 (+)> 3000] Not only that Despair Moon gained another counter as another red star appeared on the Field Spell. [Despair Moon - Despair Counter: 3 (+)> 4] [Turn 5: Number 40] [Dusk’s Cards in Hoof: 4] [Number 40's Cards in Hand: 2] “You are going to pay for that! Draw!” Number 40 said in anger. The tendril drew the card for him and despite not seeing the card, the Number was able to tell what it drew. “I will play Pot of Greed, allowing to draw two more cards.” Upon drawing them, the tendrils played one of them. “I then play Attack Gimmick! I target one "Gimmick Puppet" monster and until the End Phase, it gains 500 ATK. Not only that, when it destroys an opponent's monster by battle this turn, you take damage equal to the ATK of the destroyed monster!” “And I target yours truly!” Number 40’s form, Gimmick Puppet of Strings soon was covered a electric aura. [ATK: 3000 (+)> 3500] “I, Gimmick Puppet of Strings will destroy Utopia!” Number 40 then charged towards the warrior with its sword. “Vanish Number 39!” “I will not let happen! I activate Utopia’s special effect!” Dusk shouted as one of Utopia’s Overlay Units flew into the orb on the monster’s chest. “By detaching an Overlay Unit from it, I can negate one attack!” Utopia’s wings then spread out and curled up in front of the warrior as a might shield “Light Wing Shield!” Number’s 40 trusted its sword at the shield, but it failed to pierce through it. “You…! I activate my Trap!” Just as the Number jumped back, its face-down opened up. “Raigeki Break! By discarding one card, I can destroy a card!” After a tendril discarded a card, a lightning bolt was fired from the Trap and was directed to the warrior. “One way or another, I'm destroying Number 39!” “Face-down open!” Dusk however then pointed to one of his face-downs. “Xyz Reflect!” Suddenly, a circular barrier appeared in front of Utopia and absorbed the lightning from Number 40’s Trap. “Whenever an Xyz monster I control is targeted by a Spell, Trap or monster effect, the activated card is negated and then destroyed!” Dusk explained as the lightning was then reflected back to its card of origin. “Not only that, you then take 800 points of damage!” Number 40 felt the blast of his Trap being destroyed and the damage inflicted to him. [Number 40’s Life Points: 5900 (-)> 5100] “Grrr... I set two card face-down and I end my turn.” Number 40 growled at the setback as Gimmick Attack worn off. [Gimmick Puppet of Strings] [ATK: 3500 (-)> 3000] However, another counter appeared on Despair Moon; the moon now has five red stars encircling it. [Despair Moon - Despair Counter: 4 (+)> 5] “He… He is winning.” Fluttershy said quietly, but with a happy tone.” “But the Number has a sturdy defense.” Twilight looked at Number’s 40 field before looking at Gimmick Puppet of Strings. “And it’s possessing a powerful monster.” “Hey. If Dusk could plummet that giant that Lyra summoned back at the town hall, then he should be able to take down a freaky doll.” Dash stated. [Turn 6: Dusk [Dusk’s Cards in Hoof: 4] [Number 40's Cards in Hand: 0] “It’s my turn. Draw!” Dusk looked at the card he drew and smiled. “I Special Summon Photon Slasher in Defense mode.” The monster appeared on the field, very similar to its Photon counterparts. The only difference that it had wing-like attachments and wielded a larger blade. It kneeled down with its blade positioned defensively. [Photon Slasher] [ATK: 2100] [DEF: 1000] [Level: 5] “Since there is an Xyz Monster is on the field, I can Special Summon this card from my hand in Defense mode.” Dusk said as he then played another card. “I will then equip Utopia with Moon Mirror Shield.” A circle golden shield with eight point appeared on the warrior’s left arm. “When the equipped monster battles an opponent's monster, its ATK and DEF become equal to the ATK or DEF of the opponent's monster plus an additional 100 points during damage calculation only.” Dusk said as he pointed at Number 40. “Utopia! This time destroy Gimmick Puppet of String!” The warrior drew its sword and charged at the puppet shield first. As a reflection of Gimmick Puppet of String appeared on the shield, it glowed and bolstered Utopia’s ATK. [Number 39: Utopia] [ATK: 2500 (+)> 3100] “Trap activate! Intrigue Shield!” Number 40 exclaimed as one of its face-down opened and from it, appeared an ornate shield. “When activated, I can target one monster you control and equip this card to it. And I choose myself!” The shield then flew to Gimmick Puppet of Strings’s left arm. The puppet then used the shield to block Utopia’s attack. “What?” Dusk said for not only the puppet wasn’t destroyed, but Number 40 didn’t take any damage. “While the equipped monster is in Attack mode, it cannot be destroyed by battle once per turn. I also don’t take any battle damage from attack involving it.” Number 40 laughed. “With this, I am invincible!” After the attack failed, Utopia’s ATK returned to normal. [Number 39: Utopia] [ATK: 3100 (-)> 2500] “Oh… I was hoping that Dusk would get rid that ugly doll.” Rarity complained. “I end my turn then.” As he said that, he notice that the strings around Number 40’s monsters begun to tightened. “What is going on?” Number 40 smiled. “The effect of Gimmick Puppet of Strings now. During my opponent’s next End Phase, all monsters with String Counters are destroyed.” Dusk and the others were shocked as the strings around Dusk’s monsters tightened to the point it cut their bodies to shreds. “You just destroyed your own monsters!” “That is not all. The controller of the destroyed monsters take damage equal the sum of their original ATK.” Everypony widen their eyes in utter shock. “Are you trying destroying yourself then?!” Dusk yelled. “Oh no… I am destroying you!” Number 40 replied as its other face-up opened. “Go! Triple Vengeance!” The card was revealed to be Trap. Just as dark auras begun to appeared were the destroyed monsters use to be and flew towards Number 40, a barrier formed around Gimmick Puppet of Strings and absorbed them. “It can only activate when three or more monsters I control are destroyed on the same turn. Until the End Phase, any damage I take would instead be inflicted to my opponent!” “Impossible!” Dusk shouted as the dark auras left the barrier and flew towards him. He was pushed to the ground from the impact. [Dusk’s Life Points: 7200 (-)> 4400] “Dusk!” The mares cried as they saw the stallion down on the ground. At the same time, another red star appeared, showing another counter was added to Despair Moon. [Despair Moon - Despair Counter: 5 (+)> 6] “Ugh…” Dusk groaned as he got back on his hooves. [Turn 7: Number 40] [Dusk’s Cards in Hoof: 3] [Number 40's Cards in Hand: 0] “It now my turn! Draw!” As the card was drawn, the tendrils played it. “I play Xyz Treasure. I draw a card for each Xyz monster on the field. Since there two Xyz monsters, I can more draw two cards.” Number 40 said as the tendrils drew them. Suddenly, Number 40 laughed loudly for all to here. “Why are you laughing?” Dusk questioned. “I play the Spell, Overlay Mass Destruction! All Xyz monsters on the field have all their Overlay Units detached and we both take 1000 points of damage for every one!” The last Overlay Unit from Gimmick Puppet of Strings and Utopia flew into the air before they exploded, raining fire upon Dusk and Number 40. [Dusk’s Life Points: 4400 (-)> 2400] [Number 40’s Life Points: 5100 (-)> 3100] “Why would that…” Twilight said before she realizes the Number’s intention. “Wait! Despair Moon!” Dusk looked upon the moon as the red stars begun to move towards it. He then looked at Number 40 with defiant eyes. “Still being brave? That will not help you! I activate Despair Moon’s effect!” When the stars touched the moon, it begun to glow crimson red. The starlight night sky of the Field Spell was illuminated by the glow. “By sending this card to the Graveyard during my Main Phase, I can inflict 600 points of damage to you for every Despair Counter on it! Since there are six in total…” Number 40 smiled darkly as a crimson beam was fired from the glowing moon and decended towards Dusk. “…So you take 3600 points of damage!” Number 40 yelled. “Vanish along with Number 39!” As the beam struck Dusk and enveloped him, the mares gasped in horror. “Dusk!” Twilight cried as tears begun to brim in her eyes. The other also had tears building up as they thought the stallion was defeated. Even the bounded alicorn had tears in her eyes upon seeing the Number’s achieving his victory. In a few moments, the red beam dispersed as the ceiling of the ruins returned. “Victory is mi…” Number 40 declared just as he gazes upon Dusk. “Impossible!” It yelled in anger for Dusk wasn’t lying on the ground in bitter defeat, but was still standing. “…Dusk!” Twilight cried again, but it was out of joy and it was equally shared by the others. “How?! How did you survive Despair Moon?!” The Number bellowed. “I used my face-down.” Dusk pointed to his card now faced up. “Photon Prevent. When I am about to take damage from a card effect and I have a “Photon” monster on the field, I take no damage from the effect.” “All this time… You been waiting for me to use Despair Moon...” Then Number 40 then lunge at Photon Slasher. “Then I, Gimmick Puppet of Strings destroy that blasted Photon!” Delivering a powerful slash, the Number cleave Photon Slasher down the middle and destroyed it. “Then I play the Spell, Junk Puppet!” A portal soon appeared near Number 40. “I can Special Summon a “Gimmick Puppet” monster in my Graveyard! Return! Shadow Feeler!” Soon, the same bizarre-looking doll reappeared and in Defense mode. [Gimmick Puppet Shadow Feeler] [ATK: 1000] [DEF: 1000] [Level: 8] “I end my turn!” [Turn 8: Dusk] [Dusk’s Cards in Hoof: 3] [Number 40's Cards in Hand: 0] “If you are this angry, then allow me to end it all! Draw!” Dusk then draw his card and played it. “I play Graceful Charity. I draw three cards and then discard two.” As he did, he smiled what he drew before discarding two of his cards. “Its over Number 40! I play Photon Sanctuary! I can Special Summon two Photon Tokens in Defense mode.” The two aqua-coloured orbs, each with a trio of tiny similar orbs circling around, appeared on Dusk’s field. [Photon Token] [ATK: 2000] [DEF: 0] [Level: 4] [Photon Token] [ATK: 2000] [DEF: 0] [Level: 4] “I will then release these tokens for a Special Summon!” Dusk said as the Photon Tokens turn into particles of light. The particles then begun to fly into the air and forming akin to a spiral galaxy, sparkling like stars. Everypony couldn’t help but marvel at the sight as it illuminated the entire chamber. “So beautiful…” Twilight muttered. She and others were caught off guard thought when Dusk begun to yell. “Stars dancing in the night sky and beyond…! The stallion then raised his hoof into the air. “Come together and becoming the very shining beacon of hope!” The spiral begun to spin faster and faster as more sparkles of light appeared. In time, something bright begun to appear from within the spiral and begun to release rays of blue light. Everypony watched in utter shock when from a large dragon materialized from the light. Most of its body was glowing bright blue while wearing some form of dull purple armor with red outlines and aqua gems. “Descend before us and stand against the darkness! Reveal yourself! Galaxy-Eyes Photon Dragon!” As Dusk finished talking, the dragon raised its head and spread its wings of unusual design. Seconds later, it made a ferocious roar for everypony to hear. Much of its glowing body begun to dim except for a number of outlines. [Galaxy-Eyes Photon Dragon] [ATK: 3000] [DEF: 2500] [Level: 8] All the ponies looked at the dragon in awe, but not all of them. “Ahhh!” Fluttershy screamed as she quickly dropped to the ground and place her hooves over her head. “What’s wrong Fluttershy?” Twilight asked the scared pegasus. “I’m… scared of… dragons…” She replied in a quiet and scared tone. “Don’t worry.” Applejack assured her. “The big guy is on Dusk’s side.” “What is this?” The Number questioned as it looked upon the dragon. “You know it is useless as long it have…” “Your Intrigue Shield? I think not.” Dusk stated as he put his hoof over the Graveyard slot and a card slipped out. “I banish Galaxy Cyclone to activate another of its effects. I can target one face-up Spell or Trap card on the field and destroy it.” “No!” Number 40 yelled as another starry cyclone appeared and struck the shield, destroying the Trap. “That is not all. I play Spell Dark Core! I discard a card to banish one monster on the field!” Dusk then pointed to Shadow Feeler as he paid the cost for the Spell. “Vanish!” A small black orb appeared above the doll-like monster and grew until it consumed it. When the orb shrunk into nothing, Shadow Feeler was gone. However, the Number wasn’t fazed. “That dragon didn’t even get stronger. Are you using it for a suicide attack! Numbers cannot be destroyed in battle unless facing another Number!” Dusk merely smirked. “I think your previous outburst of your made you forget.” He then pointed to Utopia. “I have a Number of my own on the field.” “No… No!” Number 40 shouted. “I came so far! I refuse…” “Utopia! Attack Gimmick Puppet of Strings!” The warrior attack the puppet in the same manner as before as Mirror Moon Shield once again took effect. [Number 39: Utopia] [ATK: 2500 (+)> 3100] “How’s this? Rising Moon Slash!” Utopia delivered a swift blow with its sword upon Gimmick Puppet of Strings. The slash cut through the strings holding its torso together and the puppet broke into two halves before exploding. [Number 39: Utopia] [Number 40’s Life Points: 3100 (-)> 3000] With its attack done, Utopia’s ATK went back to normal. [ATK: 3100 (-)> 2500] The mares cheered as Dusk finally destroyed the Number, but saw it wasn’t over. They watched as from the smoke was the black shapeless form that was Number 40. It struggled to return back to the form it first met the ponies. “I can’t lose to… a mere pony…” The Number said in a pained tone. “It is time for you to vanish Number 40!” Dusk shouted as he pointed to Galaxy-Eyes. “You will no longer harm anypony anymore!” “Finish this! Galaxy-Eyes Photon Dragon!” Galaxy-Eyes roared as it raised its head in preparation for its direct attack. “Photon Stream of Destruction!” The dragon then fired a powerful blast of energy upon Number 40. It screamed loudly as the attack enveloped its form and illuminated the chamber. “AGGGGHHHHH!” [Number 40’s Life Points: 3000 (-)> 0] [Winner: Dusk] As the attack dissipated, Dusk saw that Number 40 have vanished without a trace. On the ground where it once stood was Dusk’s deck pouches. “Its over… and I have my cards back…” Dusk said with a tired smile as the holograms begun to vanish. He then noticed Utopia turning to him and much to his surprise, it made a nod before vanishing as well. The holograms weren’t not the only things to vanish. The black tendrils binding the alicorn vanished as well along with the barriers blocking the windows and entrance. “It’s morning already?” Dusk muttered as he saw through the windows and saw the sun up in the sky. “Indeed it is.” He heard a recognizable voice and saw a flash of light at the right corner of his eye. He turned and much to his surprise, it was Princess Celestia. Dusk then heard the mares gasp and when he turned to them, they immediately bowed to her in respect. It was then Twilight got up and happily approached the princess with tears building in her eyes. “Princess Celestia! You can’t imagine what we been through…!” “I know my faithful student. I have seen everything.” As the mares gasped in surprise, Dusk then approached her. “Mind if you explain?” Celestia then explained that when she felt Nightmare Moon being defeated, she apparently planned to teleport to the site to congratulate Twilight and the others. However, she ended up teleporting to the outside of the ruined tower; which was at the same time when Number 40 set up its barriers. While she wouldn’t be able to breach the barriers, she could at least see and hear what was going on inside. She watched as the Number explained itself to the point which Dusk gave up his possessions in exchange for the mare’s lives and finally the entire duel itself. “So you really did see everything…” Dusk said with some surprise in his voice. “Dusk... You may not see yourself as a hero, but you are one in my eyes.” Celestia said to Dusk much to his surprise. “You were more than willing to give up your prized possession for them.” She gestured to Twilight, Applejack, Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy and Pinkie. “You had a difficult choice between giving up the Elements and giving up your friends. Both choices were terrifying, but you chose the one that mattered more; your friends. A true hero never leave their friends to their fates.” Celestia then pointed to his new duel disk. “And you were rewarded for your choice. While your deck is impressive, I am more impressed that this Number 39 chose to help you.” Dusk smiled as he scratched the back of his head and turned to the mares. “Again, the bonds I share with my friends is more precious than any worldly treasure or glory.” They smiled brightly in return. As Celestia begun to talk to Twilight and what she learned from friendship, Dusk decided to check on the unknown alicorn, who appeared to blacked out after his final attack on Number 40. “Hey. Are you okay?” He shook her lightly and she begun to open her eyes. She gasped when the alicorn saw him. “You… You were…” Dusk merely smiled. “You are safe now. I dealt with the Number and it wouldn’t be bothering anypony.” He then gathered the pile of cards near her; the deck that Number 40 used. “What…” The alicorn was confused what she saw and heard at first, but gasped when she caught sight of Celestia approaching her. “Dusk.” Celestia turn her attention to the stallion. “I want to thank you for not only defeating t Number, but also saving my sister Luna in the process.” “Sister?” Twilight and Dash said in surprise. “Just doing what I have to do…” Dusk merely bowed his head to the princess before he went to pick up his deck pouches. He listened to Celestia and Luna reconcile their relationship as he walked back to the mares. They were quick to grab him into another group hug. “You had us worried there Dusk.” Twilight said, remembering how she and others thought was finished when from the effects of Despair Moon. “I was worried as well, but I knew that you all never lost faith in me.” Dsuk replied as the other smiled. “And I never lose my faith in my cards, even if they are new to me.” Applejack then gave him his backpack, which gladly grabbed and put his decks in. However, she notice he was fumbling with his duel disk. “What wrong?” “Strange… This duel disk would come off…” Dusk then to pull on the bracer, but nothing happened. “Eh… Are you okay?” Dash questioned as the stallion is started to get irritated of the inability to remove the duel disk. “This duel disk… Come off!” Much to his and the mares’ surprise, the duel disk on his hoof dematerialized before their eyes. Before they could say anything about the matter, Celestia and Luna approached them. Soon, they were on their way back to Ponyville. Dusk knew he have to keep his promise to answer the question that the mares would throw at him when they get back, but nevertheless smiled that everything ended on a good note. Back at Ponyville, Pinkie ended up preparing a party to celebrate the reunion of Celestia and Luna. Dusk was surprised that the pink pony still have energy in her despite being out all night. Then again, he and the others didn’t feel very tired after all they been through. Not only the town was well decorated with banners and ribbons, but there were also many ponies joined the fun. As he expected, they rushed him as they asked questions about himself and Duel Monsters. During that time after evading the crowd, he met Lyra, who was quick to thank him for freeing her from Number 22’s influence. While feeling guilty what happened back at the town hall, Dusk insist that she was not fault. Just when he manage to regroup with Twilight and the others, they bear witness to Celestia and Luna arrival via chariot with an escort of pegasus royal guard. He could see Luna being uncomfortable around the crowd; feeling guilty what she done as Nightmare Moon. Nevertheless, she was very happy when the crowd were quick to accept her. However, he saw one pony that wasn’t in the mood to party. “What’s wrong Twilight?” Dusk asked the unicorn, who was feeling down. “Well… It’s just that since we stopped Nightmare Moon, we would have to return to Canterlot…” “And leave the friends we made here.” Twilight nodded sadly. Dusk also felt conflicted due to being a essentially the only duelist in Equestria. He would be needed to stop any incident regarding the Numbers, but it would mean he couldn’t be with his friends for long. “Look. If you don’t want to leave, then just tell Celestia. She would understand.” “But what about you? I know you would be needed elsewhere…” “I…” “No need to worry.” Dusk and Twilight soon notice Celestia now standing before them. She then asked Spike to take a note as she spoke. “I, Princess Celestia, hereby decree that the unicorn Twilight Sparkle shall take on a new mission for Equestria. She must continue to study the magic of friendship. She must report to me her findings from her new home in Ponyville.” Upon hearing that, Applejack, Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy and Pinkie were quick to crowd around Twilight; all happy that their new friend would stay. However, they all looked at Dusk with worry, fearing he may not stay in Ponyville. However, Celestia wasn’t done yet. “I also hereby decree that the duelist Dusk will continue his responsibilities in dealing with the Numbers, confirmed responsible for the card-related incidents in Equestra. He must report any findings and incidents regarding any Numbers encountered during his indefinite stay in Ponyville. He would remain there unless I say otherwise.” Dusk was surprised, but nevertheless smiled since he could be with his new friends. Pinkie quickly grabbed him and brought him to join in crowding Twilight. “I guess we are staying here after all. Do you mind if bunk with you Twilight?” “I don’t mind, but you have to pull your weight in the library thought. I could use another assistant.” Dusk laughed lightly and smiled as he look forward to his stay in Ponyville.