//------------------------------//
// Chapter 6: The Nickname 
// Story: Yugioh: Reunion 
// by ShootingStar25 
//------------------------------//

The morning came as the rooster on the farm let out a cry. The sun coming over the horizon. All the animals on the farm let out collective grunts and respective sounds. The rays of the morning star entered the room as it hit the face of a certain cowgirl. Applejack blinked for a bit as she saw the sun as which meant she needed to get up. She then grabbed her Stenson hat and sat up on her bed as she let out a stretch. She put on her vest as she looked behind her to see Isaac. The boy was still asleep from their night out as he was peacefully dreaming as his cap had fallen in front of him on the bed. 

Aj couldn't help but smile at her friend as she enjoyed their night out. She then leaned down to address Isaac.

"Get some more rest, city slicker." responded the country gal as she planted a quick peck on his cheek. "You're on the road so much, you deserve it."

Aj then began to exit her room quietly as she closed the door to allow the city boy to sleep. She then began to walk downstairs as her brother and sister were already as they began to start their morning chores. For the next few hours, the Apple family was hard at work doing their usual duties. Eventually, Granny Smith and Sugarbelle had finished making breakfast as they called the Apple siblings to eat. 

They all washed up and began to sit down as Applejack had emerged from the bathroom as she was drying her face.

"AJ, be a dear and wake yer beau, will you?" asked Granny Smith.

"Granny!!!" shouted Aj. "Isaac's got a fiancé in Twilight." The country girl began to climb the stairs towards her room as her family all snickered and laughed at what Granny did to embarrass Applejack.

Applejack now opened the door slightly as she peaked her head. Isaac was still fast asleep as she slowly entered. She then made her way to the bed as she saw the boy with the covers over his body. Aj did admit that she found Isaac sleeping rather cute, regardless she began to gently nudge the boy. After a few nudges, Isaac began to open his eyes slowly. He blinked a few times as his vision was coming to him.

"Applejack?" said the boy as he blinked.

"Rise and shine, sugarcube."

"What time is it?" yawned Isaac.

"Time for breakfast. So get yerself ready and join us," smiled Aj as she grabbed Isaac's cap on the bed and put it on his head. She winked as she left the room as the boy sat and stretched.

Isaac now put on his hoodie as he grabbed his backpack. He now exited out of Aj's room as he entered the bathroom and began to wash his face as the cold water hit his face which was both refreshing and woke him up. Once he was done, he then descended the stairs as she saw the entire family already at the table as they smiled at the World Champion.

"Dig in," said Granny Smith to the boy.

"I appreciate this, everyone."

"Isaac, do you really have to go?" asked Applebloom as she looked at the older boy with a set of sad eyes.

"Unfortunately, yes. I wish I could stay longer, Applebloom. But I got things to do. Besides, I still have to prep for my duel that's coming up." said Isaac as he told the small girl.

"But are you coming back and visiting us?"

"Of course, I will." smiled the boy as he rubbed Applebloom's hair as she smiled.

With that, everybody now began to eat as Isaac sat down next to Aj as the two friends smiled. Even after all this time, the Apple family made some of the best food that the boy ever tasted. Once everybody had their fill, Isaac made a call to Juniper as they talked about the small things he had to do heading back. Once the conversation was over, Isaac then began to get ready as he would need to get to the airport. 

Though he couldn't leave without granting Applebloom a duel as she had been dying for. So everybody gathered in front of the house as the two went at it. For Isaac, he was smiling at how Applebloom had grown since he had last the girl. The final exam that he tested the CMC was used to see if the girls were ready to take over, and with the new programs being taught at CHS, the girls were that much better and more polished. However, Applebloom was also getting a first-hand experience at why Isaac was the World Champion. 

Once their duel was over, Isaac gave his praises and critic on Applebloom's dueling. She gave a hug to the boy as he patted her head. Aj also gave her little sister a hug at how much she'd grown. Though, of course, everybody wanted to see the two friends go at one last time as both Applejack and Isaac decided to have one final duel before he left as the two put on their duel disks.

It was now an hour or two later as a truck now arrived in front of the airport. Aj had decided to take her friend to the place as the two were now standing in front of the building.

"Thanks for the ride, Aj," said Isaac as he slung his backpack over his right shoulder.

"No worries, sugar. It's was nice to see you and catch up." smiled the country gal. "Good luck in yer duel. Don't upset Applebloom by losin'."

"I'll do my best." chuckled Isaac.

Applejack also let out a chuckle. She leaned in and planted a kiss on the boy's lips as she pulled back.

"Be safe, city slicker."

"You as well, Jacklyn," said Isaac as he tipped his cap at his friend. He then waved goodbye as he entered the airport and made his way to his flight.




It was a few hours on the plane as the waitress had delivered Isaac's beverage as he thanked the lady. He was sitting down at a table with his deck and cards all scattered in front of him. The boy was looking at them as he was talking to his comrades. Isaac's duel disk was also in front of him as he was getting a call on it. He pushed the button as the image of Juniper came up as the girl was checking in on her client. They were going over some of the things he had to do before he would continue with his special training.

The plane touched down as it landed on the runway. Isaac then exited out of the jet as he walked down the stairs. He saw Juniper waiting for him, he hugged the girl as the two entered the limo as it was taking the pair to their hotel. Once they were checked in, Isaac then pulled out his phone as he made a call to one of his close acquittances as they had to have a meeting tomorrow before he would attend the Q & A panel for a small convention he was scheduled for.

The next day came, as Isaac emerged from the hotel as Juniper was already outside on her tablet taking care of some things. They soon got into the car that was sent to them as the pair entered and it took them to the location where Isaac was going to meet his acquaintances. 

They arrived at the building as Isaac got out of the limo and looked up at it. He'd been here so many times since becoming a pro, that it was sort of like a second home to him in ways. Both he and Juniper told the driver that they wouldn't need him for a few hours until the panel tonight. They both entered the place as they stepped through the doors and to the elevators. They pushed a secret button as it was taking them to a private floor that only certain people had access to. Once they got to their floor, Juniper told Isaac to contact her when all was done. With that, the doors opened as only Isaac got off and it closed behind him.

Isaac walked after exiting the elevator as he was heading towards a door. He then grabbed its handle and entered. Upon entering the entire room was dark with only the area being dimly light with some form of light was in the center of the room with a round table surrounded by six chairs. Isaac then walked to one of them as he sat down and he looked at the smallholder in the arm. He pulled out his deck as he put it in as the system for the entire room was now powered up.

"Scanning... Name... Isaac." said the A.I. as it did the final security measures to make sure that it was the boy himself. "Welcome back, sir."

Now the entire room lit up as it had several Duel Monsters training devices as well as tons of posters along the wall that depicted the famous duelists throughout history. Behind them in the room next to them were some fields to which duels could take place. Isaac then looked up at the center wall as there were the pictures of the Big 5 and his pals, which brought a smile to the boy's face.

His deck then ejected for him to grab as he now placed it on the table spreading the cards out. Once more he was looking and talking with them as he was preparing himself for his upcoming duel with the training he was undergoing. Isaac now took one last look around the room as he was reminded of a memory.

(Memory, Three Months Ago)

Isaac was currently doing some last minute dueling exercises as he was in this room. It was late at night as the only light was from the moonlight as well as a few dim lights. He was preparing for his duel tomorrow which was where he would win and become World Champion. And right now, one person had decided to stay behind and train the kid as it was none other than his idol.

"Come on! Keep pushing!" shouted Yugi as he watched Isaac train. "Counter his card, then fire back with yours. Summon your monster, go in for the attack!"

Isaac was working up a sweat as he continued his training as he was pushing himself to the limits.

"That's it. Keep going," said Yugi as he saw Isaac stop for a moment, "I didn't the hear the MC announce the winner, keep going!" instructed the King of Games as Isaac went back to the exercises and kept on pushing for a few more moments until Yugi called it.

"Alright, that's it. Memorize! See that person in front of you! You see yourself doing right and you'll do right!" shouted the boy as Isaac heard the motivated. "Time!" shouted Yugi as Isaac now stopped and began to take some deep breaths.

"My god, Isaac. You're ready," said Yugi as he now approached the boy.

"That duelist won't know what hit him when you get on the field. You're gonna roll over him like a bulldozer.  You know, bud. I know how you feel about this duel that's coming. Cause I was in the same position as you were and I'll tell you something. Well, if you weren't here, me and the others would already hanged up our careers. The fact that you're here and doing as well as you're doing gives me motivation to stay alive. Cause I think people die sometimes when they don't want to live no more."

"Nature is smarter than people think," said Isaac as he was looking at the memory from the outside.

"Nature is smarter than people think. Little by little, we lose our friends, we lose everything. We keep losing and losing till we say, why am I still here? I got no reason to keep going on. But with you, kid. Me and the others have a reason to keep going on. We're in the Twilight era of our careers, but you... your career is only getting started. Me and the guys, we've had our run. We've had our fame, adventures, our legacy. ​And we're gonna keep watching you do good. A new generation is upon us, and you're part of that. Time to let you create your path, your own legacy."

"And I'll never leave you," repeated Isaac.

"And we'll never leave you. Cause when that does happen, and all of us hand it all over to you. You'll not only know how to duel, you'll be able to take care of yourself outside the dueling field, is that okay?" asked Yugi.

"It's okay," responded Isaac.

"Okay. Now I got a little gift for you."

"No, Yugi. You didn't have to do that," said Isaac as he saw his friend retrieve an item.

"Come on, here. This box is the last thing that I have with me. This box was where I kept my most precious cards, not just to me, but also the ones that were special to Atem. This box also held the pieces of the Millennium Puzzle when I first put it together. I had it with me when I dueled him and allowed him to final rest in peace. It holds memories, and now... I give this box to you. For you to create your memories." said Yugi as he handed the golden box to Isaac.

"Yugi..." said Isaac as he held his idol's most precious belonging as he then looked at his friend.

"It's gonna be like an angel that's on shoulder and if you ever get hurt and you fell like you're going down. Just remember, an angel's voice is gonna whisper in your ear and it's gonna say: GET UP!! GET UP!!! Cause me and the guys love you," stated Yugi.

"Okay?"

"Thanks, Yugi," said Isaac as he hugged his friend as Yugi returned the gesture.

"We love you, bud."

"And I love you," stated Isaac as he hugged his idol.

"Now go after him, kid. Go after him, we're rooting for you," said Yugi as he put his hand on Isaac's shoulder as he was holding the box in his hand. The pair now exited the room with everything fading to darkness.

(End of Memory)

"You and the guys," said Isaac as he was remembering that scene. "Thanks."

"Always, the first here. And the last person to leave," said a voice.

That got Isaac's attention as he snapped out of his thinking. He looked up and saw who it belonged.

"And you're always late,... Yuya." snickered Isaac.

Standing at the door was a boy who had crimson eyes and dual-colored green and crimson hair of average length sticking out in downwards pointing spikes all around his head. He wore a pendant on a simple string around his neck, and a buckled choker, and a pair of golden goggles with orange lenses on his forehead, with a blue star obscuring the right lens. He had on a simple orange t-shirt with a thick, silver-buckled brown belt over it, green pants with what appear to be "Deck pockets" on each leg, and magenta shoes, as well as crimson wristbands. He also wore a gold and red lined white school jacket over his shoulders like a cape.

"Hey, I left early to beat the rush hour. Traffic is crazy," said Yuya as he now walked towards the table and sat down in his chair as he put his deck inside the holder.

"Scanning... Name... Yuya Sakaki. Welcome back, sir." responded the system as it ejected his cards.

"So has it been since becoming World Champion?" asked the boy to his friend.

"A lot of work, no joke. The grind is real, but... I enjoy it. Being involved in the community, giving back, performing. I love all of it. And I have no regrets about it." smiled Isaac.

Soon the door opened up as in came some more people. Four individuals all entered the room. 

One of them had tan skin, a somewhat muscular-looking physique, black hair with gold highlights, and royal blue eyes. The upper layer of his hair jutted upwards while the lower layer arched down. The person wore a long-sleeved blue jacket with a high collar and amber gems, over a sleeveless black shirt with a red symbol, and wore gloves below his elbows with an amber gem on them. His lower body consists of black jeans with amber knee pads, a belt with two deck holsters hidden under his jacket, and calf-high motorcycle boots.

The second person had tan skin, red eyes, and black and red spiked hair that pointed out and upward. He wore a key of sorts around his neck that was being held by a black string. He too had a device over his left eye as it was white and yellow with a green lens. He wore a red vest with a white hood and a blue sleeveless shirt with a green "D" symbol; he also wore white pants with designs of three orange moon crescents attached with yellow outlines at the bottom, a white brown-stripe belt, and black with blue streaks shoes with white straps. Other accessories included a brown fingerless glove on his left hand, a black protective pad on his right elbow, and a thick, dark blue bracelet with light blue gems and red outlines on his right wrist.

The third individual wore a Slifer Red uniform, unbuttoned, and a black shirt underneath. A deck box was strapped above his waistline, largely hidden beneath the lower rim of his jacket. He wore an Academy-issued Duel Disk on his left arm customized with red outlines; his brown eyes were positioned directly beneath the bangs of the layer closest to his face, and he wore dark pants.

And the last individual to file through the door was a small boy that had a male high school uniform with a closed buckled collar. However, the most visually appealing about the person was their hair. His extremely extravagant hair featured multiple layers including long blond crooked, pointy locks for his fringe; the rest featured a set of five large spikes and two smaller spikes colored black with a magenta sheen along the edges.

They all then sat at their chairs as they slotted in their decks.

"Scanning... Names... Yusei Fudo... Yuma Tsukumo... Jaden Yuki... and Yugi Moto. Welcome back, sirs." said the A.I.

"Good to be back," said Jaden as he put his hands behind his head and leaned back.

"So, how was the trip?" asked Isaac to his pals.

"The flight was too long," complained Yuma as he plopped his head on the table with a thud sound. "Ow." groaned the boy.

"Well, glad everyone could make it," smiled Yugi.

"So, what's on the agenda? Other than simply congratulating Isaac on becoming World Champion. Congrats, bud."

"Thanks, Yusei."

"Well, I got in contact with the Dueling Committee, and they've been discussing something." Yugi then pulled out an item from his pocket, and he placed it in the middle of the table.

The item began to turn on, as it was now protecting holograms and designs that all the other duelists were looking around the room as it expanded. Soon all six duelists were now looking at the image in the center as it was a building.

"What is it, Yugi?" asked Yuya.

"This is the blueprints for the new stadium that the Dueling Committee is hoping to fund. But the thing that makes this stadium special is that all forms of dueling are going to be incorporated. A racetrack for Turbo Dueling, an ARC projector for Action Duels, the new V.R technology that's going to take the action and damage more real than it is now." informed the boy as all the others were looking at the different parts

"Awesome, so when do we get to see it?" asked Yuma with excitement.

"It's still in the planning phase, Yuma. Besides, there's another reason why they're thinking about this idea," stated Yugi. "It involves something of a little competition."

"Competition, you say? Now you're speaking my language," stated Jaden as now hyped.

"So the plan is to create the blueprints on how the stadium will be constructed. Then the Dueling Committee is going to try to find the funds to get it built. Once they pass all the regulations and safety measures. So realistically, they hope to build this new dueling arena in 3 to 5 years from now. Then to commemorate it, they want to hold a special dueling event. Possibly having all of us duel." 

The device shut down as all the holograms ended. 

"Well, I hope it gets approved. That way I'll prove I'm the best duelist between all of us!" stated Yuma stood in his chair.

"Hate to break it to you, Yuma. But there's no way your Xyz monsters can beat my Fusion Elemental Heroes," stated Jaden as he too let his competitive side show.

"It's all about Synchro Summoning, guys. Quick on the draw and quick on summoning your monsters," chimed in Yusei.

"Don't forget about Pendulum power," said Yuya.

"Settle down, guys. Save that for the field, speaking of which." Yugi then pushed a button next to him as the lights in the room behind Isaac now turned on.

The entire dueling arena now lit up as the field came online.

"Time to have fun," said Yugi as everyone now stood up from their chairs and began to make their way to the huge dueling field where all six of them would be taking each other on in respective duels.

All the boys were now making their way when Yugi saw Isaac still sitting down in his chair. 

"Hey, Isaac. I just wanted to say that congrats on becoming World Champ. Wish I could have celebrated with you, but I had other commitments."

"It's fine Yugi. I appreciate it though. You know when I was in that duel, I was remembering the lessons that you all taught me before I became a pro. When we dueled, I told you that I was gonna get stronger." 

"And you did. So how about showing me that in our duel?" asked Yugi as he wanted to battle his friend during their small get-together with the rest of their pals.

"Alright," smiled Isaac as he now stood up and walked with Yugi towards the others. 

The two arrived on the field as Yusei was already taking on Jaden in a duel while Yuya and Yuma were going at each other. In the third field, Isaac and Yugi took their respective positions as they activated their duel disks and slotted in their decks. For the next few hours, all six friends began to enjoy their hang out as they dueled against each other all with smiles on their faces.




It was now about to be nighttime as Isaac was the last person to leave. He exited out of the elevator as Juniper was sitting on the couch in the lobby with her tablet in her hand. She was taking some last-minute details as she looked up and saw Isaac.

"So, did you all have fun?" asked the girl.

"It was nice to see the guys again. I do look forward to our meets up." smiled Isaac.

"Well, we've got to get to the panel," said Juniper as she uncrossed her legs and stood up as the pair now headed out of the building as they entered the limo.

It wasn't long as soon the ride was over as the convention was already underway. People could be seen entering and leaving the building as Isaac and Juniper entered through the side entrance reserved for the special guests. The security allowed them in as they were welcomed by one of the moderators and his two assistants as they were now making their way to a spot on the main floor. They arrived as the World Champ and his agent could see tons of people getting seated as there was a microphone in the middle aisle that would serve for the Q&A portion of the panel. The camera crew was setting up the video recorder as they would be recording the panel for people to see on the internet.

After a few minutes, it was time as the moderator made her way onto the stage and sat down at the table.

"Mic, check. How's everyone doing tonight?" asked the moderator as the crowd made some noise. "Alright, we thank you for coming out tonight. I'm Melissa, and I'll be the head moderator for this Q&A." said the women as applauses were heard. 

"Now them, we want to thank everybody for coming out tonight. I know not everybody could be present here, but the ones that could make it today, thank you," said Melissa as the people clapped some more.

"Now then, I know everybody is excited and you have a ton of questions so... without further ado. Let's get started. Please help me in giving a warm welcome to the person who's not only the World Champion but also today's guest. It's Isaac." said the woman as she pointed to the side as both Juniper and Isaac now made their way on stage as they waved to them as they were given a thunderous greeting by the crowd.

The pair now sat down as the chants for the boy were still going. Some of the backstage crew quickly came out as they placed some bottles of water in front of the boy and girl as they tested out the mics.

"Testing, testing, perfect," said Isaac as everybody could hear him as they went nuts at hearing his voice as it got the boy to smile.

"All right, so what we're gonna do real quick folks before we get started a couple of quick notes again because now we have everyone joining us, uh have you two ladies stand up," said Melissa as she pointed to her two assistants.

"So this is Lexi and Santana, I am training them today. This is their first panel they're going to work as moderators for me this weekend." 

"Oh, great." smiled Isaac.

"So, Isaac is a very tough one to do," stated Melissa. "Number one: do not make direct eye contact with Isaac at any time." joked the women as everybody let out a small chuckle. "Number two: it's always Isaac sir, and number three: if he says someone is kicked out. It usually means he wants them shot in the back of the building."

"It's true," joked Isaac as the crowd and everybody laughed.

"So everyone else behaves accordingly. That said, we'll do a short introduction here in a second, and then if we do Q&As, if you have questions there's a microphone right there. We asked just to line up with that microphone, and then speak into it. So that said ladies and gentlemen, I'm gonna let him introduce himself. Isaac." said Melissa as she turned it over to the boy.

The crowd applauded as they showed their admiration for the World Champion and his agent.

"Hello, hello, everybody. Welcome to tonight's expo and convention. Glad I was able to make an appearance. Uh, I'm Isaac. I'm a duelist and currently ranked as the World Champion. I'm 21 years old and I'm from Chicoltgo." said Isaac as he gave his brief intro as a light applause was heard.

"I'm so excited to be here and I don't have much more to say about myself. So I'd be happy to start up some questions," said the boy to Melissa.

"I'll start with a few ones and then we'll turn it over to the audience." said the woman as she pulled out some notecards. "So, I think a big one people want to know is: how did you get started with Duel Monsters?"

"So for me, my career and life with Duel Monsters, started when I was little. Growing up in Chicoltgo, living with my parents in an apartment. Having to pay rent, hanging out with the kids in my neighborhood. And to me, Duel Monsters was a sort of escape I guess you could say. Seeing the city and the things that happen on the streets on a daily basis. It can be easy to fall into all of that." said Isaac.

"My parents, they did their best to give me the things that I need. And they tried to shield me from seeing some unpleasant things, but they knew that they couldn't protect me from everything. So I began to watch things play out from my front steps. But Duel Monsters, as you all know, was the one thing that brought people's attention. No matter what, people would always drop whatever they were doing whenever a duel occurred. So I took that into perspective and as a young kid, you don't think too much about it. Cause it's just a game. But as I've grown and my mindset has developed a bit more. I look back, and I see that Duel Monsters was my saving grace from potentially being a product of the streets."

"Excellent, uh, how long did it take for you to build your deck? This is a question that I'm sure many of our people in attendance want to know," asked Melissa.

"Well, to be honest, it took a rather long time. See, my deck, as crazy as it sounds. It's been with me since I was a kid. Most of the cards have been with me since I was a child. So let me tell you a story, is that my mother wasn't the biggest fan. Yeah, shocker." joked Isaac as everybody also chuckled.

"She didn't realize what the hype was behind a card game that looked to be for kids. But once she saw that it was all types of people that played this game, uh, she kinda soften to the idea. She wasn't full-on board with me becoming a duelist per se. So, one day, she surprised me with a tin box full of cards. She managed to save up a portion of the money for rent and decided to get me some cards. Now in her mind, she just figured she get her son something so that I wouldn't bother her. But it was that gift that my mother gave me which helped spark my passion for the game. And when I opened up that box and saw the cards, I just hugged and thanked her."

"And the last question that I have before we turn it over is World Champion, good or bad?"

"Ah man, you're asking the hard-hitting questions," stated Isaac as everybody chuckled. 

"Well first off, I want to say that none of this would be possible by myself if I didn't have a wonderful agent in Juniper Montage," said Isaac as he looked at the girl sitting next to her. "She's an incredibly hard worker, we're always discussing things that people want me to do. She lets them know what I can't and can do. There are times when I'm doing things like podcasts, TV shows; she's busy handling other stuff. The grind for her never stops and I tell her to take a break now and then, but she's a bit stubborn." said Isaac as the crowd also laughed.

"But the best thing about having her is I can always count on her to get the job done. Just as I do my job out on that dueling field, she does the same thing behind the scenes. And for that, I couldn't be more grateful than to have a girl like her as my agent." smiled the boy as Juniper smile back as they applauded her.

"Very touching," smiled Melissa. "Well then, I think that covers all the general questions that I have. Now, we're gonna open it to the audience to see if they have anything they would like to ask Isaac. Remember, come up and do not forcibly grab the microphone. So, anybody wants to start, go ahead."

A few seconds passed before someone approached the microphone as the nearby crew was adjusting it.

"So, I have a question?"

"What's your name?" asked Isaac.

"Daniel."

"Nice to meet you, Daniel."

"Nice to meet you. So, what advice would you give in helping to pick out your signature card?" 

"What advice? Honestly, use any cards except the ones in my deck. You're not worthy of using them." joked Isaac as everybody laughed. "Honestly, when it comes to picking out your signature card, it doesn't have to be a monster per se. People talk about how they have their favorite monster card that they like. That's nice, but who's to say that your signature card has to be a monster, it could be a spell, magic, or trap card. To me, a signature card is not something powerful, but rather you have a strong connection with it. You have that special bond with it, there's just something about it that draws your attention to that one specific card. So just pick a card that you feel strongly about and go from there."

"Thank you." said the person as they left as the next person stepped up.

"Uh, my name is Sandra and I want to ask, what's the most difficult thing about being a duelist, World Champion, or anything in general?"

"Traveling, of course. So many appearances I have to make in a year, sometimes in a week. It can be tough at the time, but again, I'm not doing it for the money. I'm doing it because of you guys, I love to give back and be a part of the community." smiled Isaac.

"Hi, my name is Sugar Moonlight and I want to say it's an honor to see you, Isaac." said the girl.

"The honor's all mine."

"My question is, what's your number one motivation? What's the thing that keeps you going in life?" 

"Uh, I've-- I've openly said all the time, you want to buy into my stock, this is what I believe in. You work hard, you show up on time, you stay loyal to those who support you, you respect enemies and friends. That's my stance. By the way, I don't ever give up. Either you're in, or you're out. Never asked you, 'Hey, you need to do this, you need to do that'. So many times, people say, 'Ahh, I-- I hate your character, but I totally respect you'. That is-- that's it. That's my legacy. That's what I want. I don't agree with you, but I respect you."

Everyone took a moment to show appreciation for what Isaac said as they clapped.

"Uhm, one more thing, would it be alright if I could get a photo?"

"Absolutely," stated Isaac as the girl was now being led by one of the assistants onto the stage as she appeared behind Isaac's seat as she held her phone out as the pair took a quick selfie. She thanked the boy as she was then led back to her seat.

"Any more questions?" asked Isaac.

"Uh, what was it like being in your first film?" asked someone.

"Well, my first film, I was sort of a background person. Who here remembers the Daring Do film?" asked Isaac as he got a huge response as even years later the film was still popular among people.

"So, in that film, I played a minion of sorts. One thing I will say is that it's a bit easier to play the bad guy because the good guy always has to react to what the villain is doing. So for me, this was a sort of getting me to step out of my comfort zone and try something new. Plus, girls like the bad boy." All the ladies cheered at the top of their lungs to Isaac's response.

"So that was my TV debut. And since becoming World Champion, I've been offered some roles in a few movies. Some that I liked, and somewhere I felt like I could have done a bit more. I've had the chance to meet some famous actors and even I'm in shock. Yeah, even I get starstruck. Why cause I'm duelist, not an actor." said the boy as everybody laughed at that joke.

"So, I just want to say that it's such an honor to see you. And all the work that you've done inspires me to do my best every day. Especially for someone like me who has some anxiety and depression in their life, I just want to say that you're truly a role model." said the person as the people clapped for the girl.

"Glad I could help and motivate you." 

"So, I want to ask is Isaac, will you be my boyfriend?" asked the girl as Isaac just smiled and chuckled as did a few others in the crowd.

"You're lovely girl, but... unfortunately I have a fiancé. Sorry," apologized Isaac with a genuine smile. "But hey, now people know you're single. So any guys looking for a date, you got good one right there." pointed the boy at the girl as she smiled at World Champ as she took her seat.

"So, who's your favorite? Dark Magician or Dark Magician Girl?" asked a little boy as he held his mom's hand.

"Ooh, that hurts," said Isaac as he leaned back with his hand over his heart in a dramatic pose. "It's always the little ones. Little kids are little alcoholics, they're too honest." said the boy as everyone chuckled.

"Which one is my favorite? I can't do that to my magicians, they mean too much. I mean, my Dark Magician has been there with me since I was young. I've always relied on him to get me through tough situations. He's my partner and awesome. And as for Dark Magician Girl, well I'm growing up and she's very cute, beautiful, smart. She's got a good set of ti... good sense of humor." said Isaac as he playfully avoided what he was going to say.

He noticed out of the corner of his eye as Mana appeared. She had a playful smile as she knew what her master was about to say as she giggled and planted a kiss on his cheek before she disappeared as Isaac smiled.

"So if I had to pick, uh, I don't know. I'm kind of on the fence on that," said Isaac.

"If you could go back in time, and tell your younger self anything, what would it be?" asked another person.

"I would tell him, don't worry about it kid. Everything is gonna be alright. Just keep doing what you're doing and though the road may be rough and at times you want to give up, just hang in there. And I know that sounds like the cliché answer, but it's true."

"What's the biggest advice you could give to anyone who wants to go pro?"

"Well, I would first ask myself this. What do you duel for? That's a question that I was asked when I was in high school and at the time it was an unusual thing. But as I developed myself as an individual, all the duels I had throughout my high school years, I learned the reason. And that was because I love this game." said Isaac.

"To be a pro, it's hard work, no joke. But to be not only successful and have a career that you can look at 20 years from now, and be proud of it. You gotta have that reason on why you do. I mention that I love this game, and pardon my language for the kids, but this is a job. And yes, as much as it's me just doing events and battling. It's also a regular job. I'm being paid to do the thing I love and people count on me to show up. This kind of job, I can't just phone it in or half-ass this shit. I have to give it my attention and focus, 100%. No two ways about it. If you don't love something, why even do it, to begin with. I love this game, I love the fact that I can make people happy, I love every little aspect that Duel Monsters brings to me and my life! I love the look on people's faces; I love the smiles that I put on for you guys. It warms my heart when I'm pulled to the side and people say 'Thank you'."

Question after question was asked. Isaac answered each of them, a few were even directed at Juniper as they asked her how she felt being Isaac's agent. She told the crowd how she loved working for the boy as it brought her a smile. A few were requests on having him sign some stuff as the boy was glad to do so and take a couple of photos.

"Well, I think that's it," said Melissa as things were wrapping up. "We want to thank Isaac and Juniper..."

"Actually, I got a question." said someone as they approached the microphone.

"We're about to wrap up..."

"It's alright, Melissa," said Isaac. "What's your question, man?"

"Yeah, why were you so blessed? Why are you the one who's the World Champ? I saw how you won kid, you're good. But you ain't great." said the person.

"I think it's best..."

"Tell me, your buddies, did they rig the duel? Those great Big 5 duelists you hang out with, they pay off your opponent?" asked the man.

"Security," asked Juniper.

"No, it's alright," said Isaac as he waved off that request. "Tell me, bud. What's your name?"

"Thundercrash. And I'm saying that you only became champion because I wasn't your opponent. Had I'd been, you wouldn't be ranked as the World Champion." said the man.

"I see. Tell me... that duel disk on your arm, you play?" asked Isaac.

"Just recently graduated and have done some small-time venues. Going full pro is my objective. I'm showing everybody why I'm the next big thing," said the person with a boastful tone.

"Well, how about you and me duel right now?" asked Isaac as that got everybody to let out a gasp. 

"Isaac..." said Juniper.

"You and me, in a duel. And I'll show you why. To make it even more incentive, I'll put my rank as champion on the line." said Isaac as an even bigger gasp was heard. "You want a chance to make it to the big leagues and make an impact, bud? No better way than to dethrone the current champ and become the new champion of Duel Monsters."

"Heh, you're must be dumb as you look. Game on." snickered Thundercrash.

"Isaac..."

"I'll be fine, Juniper." said the boy as he smiled.

The entire people all moved their chairs as the entire space was now cleared out as both duelists took their position. Both duelists looking at each other as Thundercrash was glaring at Isaac. To think that someone like him was the current World Champion of Duel Monsters made him angry that everybody treated Isaac like he was royalty and they worshipped him. He was going to make sure that he showed everybody that Isaac wasn't who he said he was and that he didn't have the skills to be a champion.

Isaac reached into his belt as he pulled out his deck and slotted it into his duel disk as it activated and projected a gold card tray.

"Opponent detected. Streaming data. Duel mode set. Initiating. Commencing duel." said their duel disks.

Thundercrash's Life Points: 8000-
Isaac's Life Points: 8000-

"Let's duel!" shouted both boys.

Turn 1: Isaac

"Here goes... I draw!" said Isaac. "Okay... I summon Gamma the Magnet Warrior(1500/1800) in defense mode!" Out emerged a monster so round that it was more a pink parody of a human shape. Its arms and legs were stubbly and it sported a pair of enormous metal wings.

"I place two cards facedown and end my turn."

Turn 2: Thundercrash

"Time to kiss your rank as champion goodbye," said Thundercrash as he drew his card. "I summon Vijam the Cubic Seed(0/0)!" A monster now appeared as it took the shape of a seed while an eye was shown blinking. "Then I'll use Vijam...  to special summon this. Take to the field... Geira Guile... the Cubic King(0/0)!" Thundercrash's monster now disappeared as a bigger monster appeared with a jaw opening up with an eye in the middle.

"By itself, Geira Guile the Cubic King has zero attack points. But by absorbing Vijam, it gains 800. Plus, you lose 800 life points! Whirling Windstorm!" shouted Thundercrash as his monster sent an energy beam at Isaac who covered up.
Isaac's Life Points: 7200-

"Next, I play the spell! Cubic Karma! Geira Guile absorbs two more Vijams to gain even more attack points!" said Thundercrash as his monster now had 2400 attack points. "Attack Isaac's Gamma the Magnet Warrior and pulverize it into rubble!" The monster then fired another beam of attack as it pierced through Isaac's monster as it exploded.

"But I'm not done, cause now I activate the effect of my Geira Guile. Since it battled this turn, I can send it back to my deck to bring back my Vijams, and then I'll summon another Cubic King! Observe Vulcan Dragni the Cubic King(0/0)!" Thundercrash's new monster now boosted its attack up to 2400.

"Say hello to Isaac, won't you?" stated Thundercrash as his monster fired another beam of attack at Isaac as he covered up again.
Isaac's Life Points: 6400-

"I don't think... he heard you! Attack him directly!" shouted Thundercrash as his monster fired a giant attack at Isaac as he was thrown onto his back.
Isaac's Life Points: 4000-

"You triggered my trap. Dig of Destiny!" said Isaac as he was on his knees. "Since I took battle damage, I get to draw a card!"

"Draw a million cards if you want, Isaac. They won't help you. Not as long as I have my Cubic Monsters. They'll keep transforming into new and powerful forms!" said Thundercrash as his monster's effect activated as his Vulcan Dragni turned back into the three Vijams.

"Why stop now? Next... my Cubic King will transform itself again. And reveal to you...  its ultimate form! A form so powerful, it's no longer a mere king, it's become something even grander. Behold, Indiora Doom Volt the Cubic Emperor(0/0)!" Thundercrash now had another new Cubic King as its attack points went up to 2400.

"Unh!" shouted Isaac as he was struck once again by another 800 life points.
Isaac's Life Points: 3200-

"Now attack Isaac one more time!" shouted Thundercrash as his monster fired another attack beam.

"I send a monster to the graveyard to activate the Nitwit Outwit trap!" shouted Isaac. "Magician's Valkyria cut the Emperor's attack points down to size!" said the boy as his female magician appeared before her master as she pointed her wand at the Cubic Emperor. She fired a spell as it weaken the strength of Thundercrash's monster to 800 attack points as the beam got smaller. Isaac was thrown onto the floor with a few scuffs.

"Unh!" stated Isaac as he slowly lifted himself back up. 

His magician saw her master on the floor as she checked on him to which he smiled to show he was fine. Magician's Valkyria smiled as she planted a kiss on Isaac's cheek as she bid farewell.
Isaac's Life Points: 2400-

All around, the kids were looking on as they saw Isaac down on the ground with his life points being so low. Juniper too had a concerned look on her face as she watched her client being tossed around by his opponent. 

"You merely delaying your demise, Isaac!" said Thundercrash as he looked at the boy get back to his feet.

Turn 3: Isaac

"It's my turn! I draw! Please..." said Isaac as he looked at the card he drew. "Yes! Since you control a monster and I don't, I can summon my Lord Gaia the Fierce Knight(2300/2100)!" shouted Isaac as his warrior appeared dual wielding lances.

"Go! Lance his Cubic Emperor!" shouted Isaac as his monster then charged forward with its weapon in front as it delivered a powerful thrust that took out Thundercrash's monster and dealt the boy damage.
Thundercrash's Life Points: 6500-

"Your Cubic Emperor has been... dethroned," said Isaac as Thundercrash simply laughed.

"You can never truly get rid of my monsters," stated Thundercrash as his Cubic Emperor was transforming.

"It split back into three Vijams," said Isaac. 

"Correct. Then by sending Cubic Karma to my graveyard, I eliminate half your life points!" shouted Thundercrash as his Vijams fired separate beams that hit Isaac again knocking him to the floor.
Isaac's Life Points: 1200-

"Don't even bother. The sensible move is to give up."

"Then I guess I don't have a lot of sense," said Isaac to Thundercrash as he was shocked to see the World Champ take a beating and still get back up. 

"I will never give up, I place three cards facedown." said the boy as he ended his turn.

Turn 4: Thundercrash

"My turn!" shouted Thundercrash as he drew his card. "And time to put an end to your phony reign, Prince! Serve me again, Indiora Doom Volt Cubic Emperor!" stated the boy as his monster appeared once more and dealt another 800 life points to Isaac.
Isaac's Life Points: 400-

"You may have gotten your Indiora back... but it's return also powers up Lord Gaia!" said Isaac as his monster now had its dragon appear as he jumped on its back and had its attack points increase to 3000.

"Rah! I play the spell Cubic Wave! While my monster's attack points are doubled, yours are cut in half!" stated Thundercrash as Isaac's Gaia was reduced to 1500 attack points while his Cubic Emperor had 4800 attack points.

"You're finished, Isaac. And with your defeat, there's going to be a new champion!" shouted Thundercrash as he looked to end the duel. "Cubic Emperor, attack and erase him!"

"I don't think so," said Isaac.

"What?" said Thundercrash.

He looked at Isaac as he saw the boy's face. For Isaac, only the lower part of his face was shown. Then in slow motion, that grin turned into a smile. Thundercrash saw this as it got him to gasp at seeing his opponent cracking that expression when he was moments away from losing everything.

"We're not through... not at all. Go! The trap Dimension Sphinx! Since your monster has over twice the attack points of mine... the difference is dealt to you as damage!" shouted Isaac as a Sphinx appeared behind him as it gave his monster power as it deflected the attack beam back at Thundercrash.
Thundercrash's Life Points: 3200-

"But... so what?! My attack still ends you!" 

"Not when I play my second trap!" shouted Isaac as his second facedown flipped up. "Dimension Guardian! It keeps Gaia from being destroyed!" said the boy as the statue appeared to shield his monster.

"Are you through?!" asked Thundercrash.

"Not yet! Cause now I play... my third trap card!" said Isaac as his last facedown flipped up.

"A third trap?" said Thundercrash.

"Dimension Mirage! Since you failed to destroy my monster, your monster is forced to attack again!" said Isaac.

"Oh, no... That would mean... you trapped me!" said Thundercrash as he saw what Isaac did.

"That's right. Indiora is caught in a perpetual attack loop! Which thanks to my three trap cards, will result in you losing life points with every attack!" stated Isaac as his cards now formed the symbol of a triangle for all to see. "And with no way to escape my combo, you know what that means. This duel between us is all but over."

The kids and everybody else was shown having smiles as they saw what Isaac did. All around the sound of laughter and happiness could be heard as they saw Isaac, the hero they were cheering on as he was about to defeat his opponent. Juniper had a smile as well as she saw her client and how all this time he was waiting for the right moment to spring his plan and it worked.

Thundercrash was at a loss for words. He was amazed that not only did Isaac manage to do something incredible, but that he had no way of stopping the loop. He put his arms down to his side with his head down. He glanced up to see Isaac a bit beat up but standing with a smile and confident posture. At that moment, it had become very clear to the man that Isaac was the real deal.

"He's truly is the World Champion," said Thundercrash as the final attack was reflected at him as it engulfed him. The boy was thrown onto his back as his duel disk registered the result.
Thundercrash's Life Points: 0-
Winner: Isaac

The ended as everybody cheered. Isaac stood there with some scuff marks on him as he put his arm down.

"Way to go, Isaac! I knew you would win! Isaac!!!!" shouted the crowd with several cheers as they just watched the World Champ defend his rank.

"You come for the Prince, you best not miss." said a random person as that statement had a nice ring.

Isaac made his way to the person he dueled as he was coming to. Thundercrash sat up as he saw Isaac towering over him with his hand extended out. Even now, Isaac was still playing the hero. Thundercrash then accepted as he was pulled up.

"Good duel," said Isaac. "You got potential, kid. Keep at it, and maybe one day, I will see you on the big stage." Isaac's response got Thundercrash to smile as the boy said goodbye to him and everybody as Juniper began to follow the boy as she grabbed his backpack as the two exited the building. 

They arrived at their limo as it was taking them to their hotel. Juniper then pulled out some wipes as she began to clean some of the bits of scuff marks on Isaac's face as he sat down.

"You didn't have to do that." said the girl as she grabbed Isaac's cheek and began to clean him up a bit.

"I know, but I needed to," said Isaac. "I'm the World Champion, and that means I have the power to help others. I allowed someone like Thundercrash to have the opportunity to step on the dueling field with me. Before that, nobody would think that's possible. But after that duel, we just inspired similar people that you can reach that level of success. To stand across that dueling field against the World Champ and one day, it may be you walking out as the guy."

"Always the playing the hero," smiled Juniper as she held her client's face and looked at his eyes.

"It's my job," smiled the boy.

Juniper then leaned in as she connected her lips with Isaac's as the boy put his hand to her cheek. They held for a bit as they pulled apart and smiled. She then got back to work cleaning the last bit of scuffs as they soon arrived at their hotel. With the small duties now taken care of, and Isaac having time to spend with the Big 5. He was now getting ready as tomorrow, he would be leaving to Whitetail Woods to see another close friend and continue his special training.