//------------------------------// // New Beginnings // Story: An Equestrian Element // by Quillion9000 //------------------------------// Japan: Domino City, Sunset’s Apartment… A new day dawned as Sunset slowly opened her eyes to the beeping of her alarm clock. For a moment, based on how the room looked, she thought she was back in Canterlot. Then, everything came crashing down upon her. “That’s right.” Sunset silenced her alarm. “I’m living in Japan now.” She wasn’t quite sure how to feel about the change. Domino City was much larger than Canterlot to the point that it didn’t feel like home. Then again, Canterlot nor Equestria had felt like home either. Maybe she just had to get used to things. “Better get ready for school.” Sunset went about her morning prep before retrieving her school’s uniform consisting of a pink top, blue skirt, and blue bow. “Skirts and pink are not my thing. I can’t believe they wouldn’t let me have the boy’s uniform.” Domino Academy As Sunset passed through the front gate, she looked up at her new school. “This place sure is different from…” Her face fell before she shook her head. “No, this is a new start, and provided I don’t do anything like how I was, no one should think I’m to blame for anything.” She then looked around at the students gathered in the courtyard. The girls all wore the same uniform as her while the boys wore a simpler, two-piece uniform consisting of a navy-blue blazer and matching pants. Some wore their blazers open, showing white undershirts, while others wore them buttoned up. Honestly, Sunset wished she could wear a uniform like that rather than what she currently had to wear. Beyond that, she eyed everyone warily as she walked across the courtyard. She entered the school and began looking for her first class. The other students did look at her as she was someone new, but Sunset didn’t make eye contact. After everything that happened, she wasn’t sure about making friends again. Sunset was so deep in thought over everything that she wasn’t watching where she was going. Suddenly, someone came running down the hall and crashed into her. As she hit the floor, her deck box fell out scattering her cards. “My deck!” Sunset shouted with more concern than she thought she’d have. “Oh, this is just great.” She was immediately on the ground collecting her deck. “Oh, I’m sorry!” A boy apologized. “I wasn’t watching where I was going.” “Jeez Yugs, you should be careful.” An older boy voiced. “Yeah, her cards are all over the place.” Another male voiced. “Don’t just stand around you three.” A female voice scolded. “Let’s help her.” Sunset looked up to see a small group of 4 students. One was a tall boy with an angular jaw, brown eyes, and a head of blond hair. There was another boy with short, brown hair that came out at a point, and he had hazel eyes. The third was a girl with short, chestnut brown hair and ocean blue eyes. By far the most eye catching of them was the fourth member of this group. He was a young boy with a rounded face, large purple eyes, and spiky hair. He had an upside-down golden pyramid hanging from his neck. Sunset quickly came to her senses as the other students moved to grab her cards. “No, it’s alright.” She moved quickly to get her deck before they had to trouble themselves. “I got this.” Once she had her deck secured, Sunset stood up. “See, no problem.” “Oh…” The short boy stated as he and his friends stood. “Well, I’m sorry about that. See, I was excited to show my friends…” “There’s no need to apologize.” Sunset stated before walking away. “I should really go now.” The four friends just stared after her before the blond boy broke the silence. “What the heck’s her problem?” “I’ve never seen her before.” The brown-haired boy added. “Didn’t you guys hear we were getting a new student today?” The girl questioned. “Beyond that, I think I’ve seen her.” “Really, Tea?” The small boy asked. “Where?” “Around the middle of town while I was shopping,” Tea explained. “I’ve seen her down there every day this week, but she always seemed down, sad, and depressed. She was even keeping her distance from everyone.” “From lookin’ at her, I’d say she’s not from around here.” The blond boy voiced. “Maybe she’s just havin’ a hard time in a new country.” “No, Joey.” Tea frowned. “I think it’s more than that. I don’t think she’d look that bad if it was just mere homesickness.” She thought for a moment before speaking again. “Maybe I could ask if she’d like to hang out.” “That’s a great idea, Tea.” The small boy smiled. “If she really is in our class, we could ask her to join us on our free time for a duel.” Class When she was called in, Sunset stepped into the room and came to stand before the class. “Hello, my name is Sunset Shimmer.” She bowed. “I hope we can get along.” The teacher held out a stick of chalk. “Can you please write your name on the board?” “Yes, sir.” Sunset stated. She took the chalk and wrote her name. “Thank you, Ms. Shimmer.” The teacher looked for an empty seat and eventually pointed at one. “I believe there is a seat next to Ms. Gardner.” “Of course, I’d get a seat next to one of only four people I’ve bumped into.” Sunset groaned internally, but she took her seat. “Hey, I didn’t get the chance to introduce myself earlier, but I’m Tea.” Tea was smiling. “Guess we’re desk bubbies for the rest of the year.” “Sorry.” Sunset stated sullenly. “Not really.” “Oh.” Tea frowned as this attempt was quickly shut down. “Okay.” As class got underway, she couldn’t help but glance at Sunset. “Why is she so distant?” Later… It was now study hall, so Sunset was about to go somewhere she could be alone until she heard Tea talking excitedly. “With that, I destroy Rock Ogre for game!” “Aww man.” Joey groaned. “I lost again.” “Sorry, Joey.” Tea smiled genuinely. “Nothing personal.” The guy with brown hair threw his arms around Joey in a friendly manner. “Tough luck Joey.” Yugi waved to Sunset. “Hey, Sunset Shimmer!” Sunset looked around before pointing at herself. Yeah, there was no point in this considering he had used her full name, but she could hope the people she’s kind of met weren’t now looking at her. “Yeah, you.” Yugi called out. “I recall your deck looked cool, so how about coming over here for a duel?” Sunset knew she could have turned him down, but she wasn’t trying to make waves. As a result, she reluctantly walked over and took a seat across from him. “Oh, I forgot to properly introduce myself.” Yugi chuckled. “I’m Yugi Muto, and I just wanted to apologize, again, for earlier.” “It’s fine.” Sunset held up her hands. “No harm done.” “Since Yugs introduced himself, I might as well go next.” Joey smiled. “Name’s Joey Wheeler.” The big lug next to me is Tristan Taylor.” “Nice to meet you.” Tristan stated. “My name’s Tea Gardner.” Tea introduced. “On behalf of us, I’d like to welcome you to Domino Academy.” “With introductions out of the way, how about that game?” Yugi smiled. “I want to see how the deck my gramps helped me build stacks up to yours.” “Sure.” Sunset nodded politely. “There’s plenty of time for it, right?” “Yeah, lunch comes after study hall, so there’s ample time.” Yugi replied. The two of them got out their decks and put them on the table. “Let’s duel!” (Sunset 2000/Yugi 2000) “Since I challenged you, you can go first.” Yugi stated. “Very well.” Sunset drew. “I’ll set one monster and end my turn.” “Just like that, she’s already better than Joey.” Tristan joked. “Eh, what’s that supposed to mean?” Joey questioned. Tristan smirked. “Just that she seems to understand how to use her cards.” “It was a pretty decent start, but I’m not going to call it quits in the beginning.” Yugi drew. “I summon Celtic Guardian(LV 4/1400/1200).” An elf warrior in armor was depicted in the card. “He’ll attack your monster.” “You attacked Elemental Hero Woodsman(LV 4/800/2000).” Sunset stated as she flipped the monster which was depicted as a green hero partially covered by wood. “Since his defense is higher than your ATK, you take damage equal to the difference.” (Sunset 2000/Yugi 1400) “That’s the same defense as my Giant Soldier of Stone.” Yugi nodded. “Alright, I’ll set one card and end my turn.” “That’s rare.” Tea stated. “Usually, Yugi is the first taking life points.” “The new girl seems to have some skills.” Joey stated. “My turn.” Sunset drew. “Woodsman’s effect allows me to add a Polymerization from my deck to my hand during my Standby Phase, and I’ll activate it during my Main Phase.” “Polymerization?” Joey questioned. “What’s that?” “Polymerization is a card that allows the user to combine one monster with another monster to create a new monster stronger than the sum of its parts.” Tea explained. “That’s exactly right.” Sunset nodded. “Now, I’ll combine my Woodsman on the field with Ocean from my hand. Fusion summon Elemental Hero Terra Firma(LV 8/2500/2000).” A white hero with blue accents was depicted on the card. “I’ll then use my normal summon to bring out Elemental Hero Stratos(LV 4/1800/300).” A hero in a blue body suit was depicted on the card. “Whenever he’s summoned, I can activate one of two effects.” She looked down at her cards. “The question is which do I use? I can either add any hero monster from my deck to hand or get rid of his face down. If I go with that second option, I can use Terra Firma to overcome his Celtic Guardian and end the duel. Conversely, I can keep both monsters on the field leaving me in a good place.” She wasn’t certain what to do, and Yugi could see this. “You seem pretty indecisive Sunset, and while thinking through your moves isn’t a bad thing, sometimes all you can do is believe in the heart of the cards.” “The heart of the cards?” Sunset questioned. “That’s right.” Yugi nodded. “Have faith in your deck because no matter the reason, you put it together, right?” She nodded. “Then, there you go. It’s your deck, so believe in it along with your instincts. Maybe it won’t work out, but you won’t know unless you try.” Heart of the cards… My instincts….” Sunset observed the field and closed her eyes. “While I did put this deck together to mess with people as the person I was, at the end of the day this is still the deck I made.” She opened her eyes and smiled. “I think I got it!” Sunset nodded. “The effect I choose to activate is Stratos’ ability to destroy spell/traps equal to the number of Elemental Hero monsters I control. Your one face down is gone.” Yugi sent Nutrient Z to the grave. “Now, Terra Firma will destroy your Guardian.” “I activate the effect of Kuriboh from my hand.” Yugi declared. “By sending him from my hand to the grave, I take no battle damage from this battle.” “Just as I assumed.” Sunset thought. “He had another way to prevent the damage beyond that set card. Even though by the rules of the game we can’t attack directly, I’ve still got two monsters. Even if he can destroy both, their strong monsters meaning I should be safe.” She nodded. “Alright, I end my turn.” “Whoa, Sunset had the stronger field, but Yugs still fended her off.” Joey stated impressed. “In duel monsters, it’s not all about having powerful cards Joey.” Tea voiced. “Alright, my move!” Yugi drew before smiling. “I just drew my Dark Magician(LV 7/2500/2100), so I’ll use my normal summon on him.” A spellcaster in purple robes was depicted on the card. “Since I control Dark Magician, I can activate Thousand Knives. This spell destroys one monster you control, and I’ll use it on your Terra Firma. Then, I’ll equip Dark Magician(3200/2100 effect) with Magic Formula which increases the ATK of a Dark Magician or Dark Magician Girl by 700. Now, he’ll destroy Stratos (Sunset 600/Yugi 1400).” “He just turned it all around in one turn.” Sunset stated genuinely awestruck. “I’ll then end my turn with one set card.” Yugi declared. “That’s Yugi for you.” Tea smiled. “When you push him, his deck finds a way to push you right back.” “It’s not over yet.” Sunset drew before smiling herself. “Especially with this. I activate Miracle Fusion. With it, I can summon any Elemental Hero fusion monster using materials from my grave or field, but they are banished. I’ll combine Stratos and Woodsman from the grave. Fusion summon Elemental Hero Great Tornado(LV 8/2800/2200).” A hero in a green and yellow jump suit with tattered cloak appeared. “If this card is fusion summoned, he halves the ATK/DEF of every face up monster my opponent controls.” Dark Magician(1600/1050 effect). “Whoa, that is something.” Joey commented. “Yeah, I didn’t expect that.” Tristan added. “Now, Great Tornado will destroy Dark Magician (Sunset 600/Yugi 200).” Sunset declared. “Not bad Sunset.” Yugi laughed good naturedly. “This is a fun duel; however, it’s not close to over. When you destroyed my Dark Magician, you also sent Magic Formula to the grave. That grants me 1000 life points (Sunset 600/Yugi 1200).” “He even had a backup planned for Dark Magician’s destruction.” Sunset thought impressed. “That’s not all.” Yugi stated. “My face down card is Rope of Life. This card resurrects a monster that was just destroyed and increases their ATK by 800. Welcome back Dark Magician(LV 7/3300/2100 effect).” “I don’t have anything more to play, so I’ll end my turn.” Sunset stated. She could have set a monster, but that did her little good in this situation. All her monsters were too weak to stand up to Dark Magician, and by not playing another monster, even if he did, Sunset was still protected. Well, there were still effects to consider. In that case, an effect that could allow Yugi to attack directly wouldn’t really care about her having a monster or not. Thinking about such an effect working dependent on her having a monster didn’t matter since she already controlled Great Tornado anyways. “Alright, here we go!” Yugi drew. “This is the end because the card I drew was Horn of the Unicorn, and by equipping this to a monster I control, they’ll gain 700 more ATK and DEF. I’ll equip it to my Dark Magician(LV 7/4000/2800 effect).” “Whoa, does Yugi’s monster have 4000 ATK?” Tristan asked shocked. “I think so.” Joey responded. “You two are correct.” Tea informed. “Now, Dark Magician will end this by destroying Great Tornado (Sunset 0/Yugi 1200).” Yugi declared. “You really pushed my deck, Sunset.” He smiled. “It was really fun.” “Yeah, she seems like a natural.” Tristan commented. "If you guys think so." Sunset shrugged before standing as the bell rang. "Anyways, that sounds like the bell, so are we going to head for the cafeteria?” The group looked at her before Tea spoke up. “Uh, cafeteria? Didn’t you bring your own lunch?” “Yeah, that’s what we always do.” Joey added. “Wait, there’s no cafeteria!?” Sunset asked shocked. “Not really.” Tea explained. “You need to bring your lunch.” “How could I not know that?” Sunset groaned. “What am I going do? I just assumed the school would provide food, so I didn’t bring any.” “Never fear.” Joey thumped his chest. “At times like dis, Joey Wheeler has the answer. I’m takin’ you to the Convenience Corner!” “Convenience Corner?” Sunset asked. “Just follow me, and we’ll get some food in a ya.” Joey declared with a smile before headed for the classroom door. “Be right back guys.” With Joey & Sunset Sunset followed Joey through the halls of the school and into the courtyard. All around, students were sitting and enjoying homemade lunches. To her surprise, some of them were even eating hot food from metal containers. The aromas reached her nose causing her stomach to growl. She paused when she saw Joey was leading them to the school gate. “Wait, are we actually allowed to leave the campus?” “Yeah, don’t worry about it.” Joey assured. “We’re allowed ta leave durin’ lunch as long we’re back in time. Now, come on. Your lunch awaits.” With that, he headed out of the gate with Sunset right behind him. Joey led Sunset down the street, before turning onto a side street. “Here we are, Convenience Corner. This is where you can find everything you need for your lunch or snacking needs. Take ya pick.” Sunset looked at both sides of the narrow street with a raised eyebrow. “Vending machines?” There were several, brightly colored vending machines lined up on both sides of the street. “That’s right.” Joey declared. “Take a look. There's always something good, and it’s not just food. For the sake of convenience, I suggest you try that one. It’s a personal favorite of mine.” “Sure.” Sunset shrugged before walking up to the vending machine he indicated and peering through the glass. “A vending machine that gives out sandwiches?” “You bet.” Joey grinned. “They’re some real good ones too. Plus, you can’t deny the convenience.” “Yeah, I guess you're right,” Sunset admitted. “How else am I going to get something to eat?” “Trust me, ya won’t regret it.” Joey assured. “Well, here goes nothing.” Sunset stated. She inserted her money and pressed in the number for her chosen sandwich. She watched as it fell off the shelf before she reached through the slot. Sandwich now in hand, She and Joey headed back to the school. Class They arrived at their classroom with plenty of time to spare and moved back towards the rest of the gang. They saw Yugi and Tea facing each other in a duel. Yugi put his cards down with a smile. “That takes your Life Points down to 0. Sorry Tea, but it looks I win.” “Aw, nuts.” Tea gave a playful frown. “I was so close to beating you that time. Guess you're just too good, Yugi.” “Naw, you did fine.” Yugi stated modestly. “I just got lucky is all.” “Yeah, right.” Tristan scoffed playfully, “Luck’s got nothing to do with it. You're just the best at this game. No one can beat you. Even Sunset only came so close to it.” “Where did you learn to play?” Sunset ended up inquiring. “Yugs learned from his grandpa.” Joey answered. “The guy owns a game shop and knows all sorts of cool stuff about Duel Monsters. Y’know, you’re not a slouch at this game. If you play more Duel Monsters, you might make some new friends around here.” Alarm bells rang in Sunset’s head. “Uh, yeah… new friends. “Hey, you okay?” Joey asked. “Yeah, I’m fine.” Sunset stated quickly. After School Once school was finished, Sunset was content to head back to her apartment; however, Joey called out to her. “Yo, Sunset! We’re about to head over to Yugi’s Grandpa’s shop! Wanna come?” Sunset thought about it before resigning herself to it. “Uh… sure.” Kame Game Shop The group entered the shop with Yugi saying, “Grandpa, I’m home!” “Welcome home, Yugi.” An old man behind the counter chuckled. “I see you brought company,” This old man looked much like an older version of Yugi. He had grey hair in the same spiky style as his grandson, and the same purple eyes. He also had a grey beard and moustache. He wore blue-green overalls, a plain white shirt, and an orange bandana. “Yep!” Yugi nodded. “Oh, this is our new friend, Sunset Shimmer. She just started at Domino Academy.” “Friend…” Sunset thought. She wasn’t certain how to feel about that. Admittedly, it was nice to be around people like them, and it’s not like she could wholly blame others for how she was treated back in Canterlot. She may not have been Anon-a-Miss, but she had acted terribly before. “Hey Gramps, would you mind showing my friends your super awesome, rare card?” Yugi asked. “Rare card?” Grandpa stroked his chin. Yugi cupped his hands and bowed. “Please.” “Pretty please.” Joey added. Grandpa laughed. “How could I refuse?” He reached for a box underneath the counter. “You kids are in for a treat because I don’t bring this out often.” He opened the box to reveal Blue-Eyes White Dragon. “This is my most prized treasure because it came from a dear friend.” They all looked in awe at the card. “That’s really cool sir.” Sunset stated genuinely. “I heard there are only four of these in existence.” She smiled. “Your friend must have really valued your friendship to entrust this card to you.” “Oh, ho.” Grandpa smiled back. “It’s nice to see a young one that understands the value of this card; however, I would feel just as protective if it were a plain, old card.” “Yep, that’s my grandpa for you.” Yugi smiled. “He absolutely loves the game.” Suddenly, the shop bell rang as the door was opened. “Hello, may I help you?” Mr. Muto asked. “If you can’t, it certainly wouldn’t surprise me.” A deep, cold voice responded. Everyone turned to see a tall, young man in the doorway. He wore the Domino Academy boy’s uniform. He had sharp blue eyes, dark brown hair, and carried a metal briefcase. The guy stopped when he saw Blue Eyes White Dragon. He pushed through the group to the counter. “Why is the legendary Blue Eyes White Dragon in a place like this!?” Grandpa closed the box. “Well, that’s enough window shopping.” “Hey Tea.” Sunset leaned over to her. “Isn’t that Seto Kaiba?” “That’s him alright.” Tea nodded. “Seto Kaiba, owner of Kaiba Corporation.” “Listen here old man.” Kaiba put his suitcase on the counter and opened it to reveal that it was full of rare cards. “I'll trade you all these cards for that one.” “As nice as they are, my answer is no.” Grandpa replied. “If you don't want to trade, I’ll buy it.” Kaiba pressed. “Name your price!” “I’m sorry Mr. Kaiba, but I cannot sell or trade this card. It was a gift from my dear friend, so it means more to me than anything in the world.” Grandpa explained. “As such, my final answer will be no.” “Heed my words, old man.” Kaiba was rather angry and slammed his fist down on the counter. “I control this city, and I can have this shop closed down!” Sunset didn’t want to make waves, but this Kaiba guy was acting much like she once did. “Leave him alone, Kaiba!” Kaiba looked at her. “You're the new girl.” “That’s of little concern right now.” Sunset chided. “Mr. Muto is the owner of this shop. If he refuses to sell, take the hint and leave.” Kaiba took his case and walked to the door. “This isn’t over!” They heard him being driven away in his limousine. “Now, that was cool!” Joey declared impressed. “Someone like you will easily fit in with us.” “Agreed!” Tristan patted her on the back. “Anyone with a spine like yours is okay in my books.” Sunset found she was happy to see how much these guys liked her. She may have still been uncertain, but she was enjoying their company the more she hung out with them. If this was their way of saying she could stick around, she might just accept. Next Day… At school, Sunset found she really was happy that Yugi and his friends did want her around. It was nice to be wanted; however, this joy was coupled with new unease since Kaiba was absent. She had a bad feeling about that. Streets of Domino Academy, After School After school had ended, Sunset had once more met up with Yugi and his friends. They were heading for the game shop and chatting casually when Sunset noticed her hands briefly glow white. While it didn’t look like her magic from Equestria, it kind of felt like it. The magic eventually dissipated leaving the girl confused which Yugi took note of. “Hey Sunset, are you okay?” “Uh, yeah.” Sunset decided to write it off since there’s no way her magic should work in this form. “I thought I saw something, but it turned out to be nothing.” Joey noticed something on the ground and his eyes opened wide. “Hey Yugs, isn’t this you’re gramps’ Blue-Eyes?” “What!?” Yugi ran over and picked the card up. “There’s no way this could be his card.” He sounded uncertain. “He never takes it out of the shop.” “Maybe we should hurry on over just to check on him.” Tea offered. Yugi nodded. “Good idea.” Kame Game Shop The group burst into the shop. “Grandpa, are you here!?” Yugi called out. “We found what we think is an actual Blue-Eyes White Dragon!” There was no answer. “Maybe gramps just stepped out.” Joey offered. “If he did, why would he leave the door unlocked?” Tea asked. Just then, the phone rang, and Yugi answered it. “Hello?” Kaiba was on the other end. “Yugi… perfect.” “Kaiba!” Yugi exclaimed. “Your grandpa’s visiting and unfortunately doesn’t feel well.” Kaiba explained. “Why don’t you come pick him up and bring his Blue-Eyes while you’re at it.” He hung up. “Kaiba!” Yugi exclaimed. “What did you do to my grandpa? Kaiba!” “What’s happened?” Tristan asked. “Kaiba has my grandpa.” Yugi answered clearly worried. “Well, let’s go.” Sunset declared. “We need to help him.” Yugi nodded. “Right.” Kaiba Corp. The group entered the building and rode the elevator to the top floor where they found Yugi’s grandpa lying on the floor. Kaiba was towering over him like a tyrant. “You’re just in time Yugi.” Gramps managed to raise his head to look at his grandson. “Yugi, I tried to show this hooligan the heart of the cards.” “The old fool tried and failed.” Kaiba stated deviously. “Now, I want the Blue-Eyes we agreed to play for. I assume you’ve brought it.” Yugi’s eyes opened wide as he pulled the card out. Grandpa went wide eyed as well. “Yugi, you found my Blue-Eyes.” “I think you mean my Blue-Eyes.” Kaiba stated. “I ask that you bring my card to me.” “Do you honestly think yourself a titian?” Sunset questioned. “All you’ve done is hurt an elderly man who treasures a gift from a friend. What does that prove?” “Sunset has a point, you jerk.” Joey declared. “Anyone could hurt an old man, but all it proves is how much of a sleaze you really are.” “Really now?” Kaiba smirked. “Despite what you think, I won that card fair and square, but let it never be said I wasn’t willing to compromise.” He looked at the group. “I will take one of you on in a duel. If I win, you keep the card; however, if I win, Kame Game Shop, and everything inside, becomes property of Kaiba Corp.” Everyone was shocked by Kaiba’s terms. “You can’t be serious!?” Tristan shouted. “Oh, I’m dead serious.” Kaiba gave them a cold smirk. “This is the only way I’ll let you walk out with that card.” “This isn’t fair.” Tea stated. “Yugi could lose everything.” “Unfortunately, we got to play by his terms.” Sunset stated. “By all rights, no matter how hurt gramps is, the card is his now.” At this point, grandpa, with the last of his strength, pushed the dragon and a small stack of five towards his grandson. “Yugi, take my treasures and show him the heart of the cards. Show him what it means to put your trust in your deck.” Yugi nodded before standing and looking at Kaiba with determination. “Kaiba, I accept your challenge!” “Meet me in the arena when you're ready.” Kaiba turned and walked away. “Don’t keep me waiting.” “You guys, take my grandpa to a hospital.” Yugi stated to his friends. “I’ll deal with Kaiba,” “Hold on, Yugi.” Tea stepped into the middle of the group. “Everyone, put your hands in the center, and I’ll mark us with a special sign.” Everyone put their hands in except for Sunset. “That’s mean you to Sunset. Get over here.” Sunset did join in, and, to everyone's confusion, Tea proceeded to draw what looked like a smiley face across all their hands. “Huh? What gives Tea?” Joey asked. “It’s a symbol of our friendship.” Tea declared with pride as she held up her marked hand. “When Yugi’s dueling, no matter how tough it gets, he’ll know he’s not alone. We’re all with him.” The gesture wasn’t lost on Sunset. “You really consider me your friend?” She looked at them all in shock. “We’ve only known each for a couple of days.” Tea nodded. “We do, Sunset. “Yeah, you’re one of us now.” Joey added. “Besides, everyone deserves to have a friend.” Tristan stated. “When you first arrived, it looked like you needed it.” Yugi nodded resolutely and smiled. “From now on, you will always be our friend.” Sunset couldn't help but feel touched as she smiled warmly. “Thanks guys,” After that, Sunset and Joey decided to stay with Yugi while Tea and Tristan took gramps to the hospital. Arena They walked down the corridor Kaiba took and stepped into a huge room with two large pedestals. There were also what looked like stands around the edge, and a green, glassy floor with two rectangular grids. Sunset looked around impressed and confused. “A stadium? Seto Kaiba has a whole stadium in his building for playing duel monsters?” She went over to the stands as Yugi and Kaiba climbed up onto each of the pedestals. “I designed this virtual stadium myself.” Kaiba declared. “Impressive, hm? I think you’ll find it adds a bit more life to the game.” The two pedestals moved forward placing both players out above the field. “Are you ready to play, runt?” The ceiling of the room went dark and shadowy as Yugi spoke. “Playtime is over, Kaiba!” At that moment, Sunset noticed a flash of golden light around him. When it faded, he looked basically the same, but there were subtle differences. For one thing, he looked slightly taller, and if she looked closely, his hair looked different. One of his bangs was now pointing straight up from the middle of his forehead, but the most striking difference was the look in his eyes. They were now brimming with strength and a confidence that wasn’t there before. “Is that still Yugi?” Sunset questioned. “Hm, now that ya mention it… he does look a bit different.” Joey shrugged it off. “Must be that firm glare he’s givin’ Kaiba.” Kaiba seemed just as taken aback as Sunset. “Uh, what…” “Now, Kaiba.” Yugi interrupted him. “Prepare yourself because it’s time to duel!” “Does this have something to do with the magic this world is told to have?” Sunset contemplated. “Is that… Did I perform my own magic earlier?” Before she could ponder it further, Kaiba shook off his confusion. “Virtual Systems Ready.” The screens above the middle of the field showed the players scores, and both players drew five cards from their decks. (Yugi 2000/Kaiba 2000) “Let’s begin.” Kaiba drew. “I’ll summon my King of D.(LV 4/1200/1100).” A spellcaster in dragon bone armor with a blue-eyes white dragon guitar appeared. “Brace yourself, Yugi. You’ve never dueled like this before!” Sunset, Joey, and Yugi were stunned by this. “Huh, he’s brought the monster on the card to life!” Yugi exclaimed in shocked awe. “Whoa, are you seeing that Sunset?” Joey asked. “An actual monster.” “I see it, but I don’t believe it.” Sunset replied. “This is my virtual simulator,” Kaiba explained boastfully. “It creates life like holograms of every Duel Monster!” He chuckled. “Beyond that, my king has an effect where I can add 1 of 3 cards to my hand in return for discarding a spell/trap I currently hold.” He discarded a card before fanning out his deck and retrieving a card. “The card I picked was Dragon Revival Rhapsody. “I’ll then activate Graceful Charity allowing me to draw three cards at the cost of discarding any two cards I hold. I’m content to end my turn there.” “So, this is how you beat my grandfather!” Yugi stated angrily. “Well, I won’t be felled by this.” He drew. "I’ll summon Gazelle the King of Mythical Beasts(LV 4/1500/1200).” A brown beast with a small horn appeared. “Now, destroy Kaiba’s King of D.” Gazelle rushed forward and slashed into the opposing monster destroying him (Yugi 2000/Kaiba 1700) Just then, a young, dark-haired boy ran into the stadium. “Big Brother!” “Alright!” Joey cheered. “Go Yugi!” “Yeah, that’s showing him!” Sunset added. “Heh, well played for a beginner.” Kaiba drew. “Though, how will you deal with this? I summon Vorse Raider(LV 4/1900/1200).” A muscular, bipedal beast appeared. “He’ll eradicate your Gazelle (Yugi 1600/Kaiba 1700).” Yugi drew his next card and starred at it for a moment before playing another card from his hand. This time, no monster appeared, but the square on the field did glow. Kaiba called his next attack and destroyed a face down Celtic Guardian. “Hang in there, Yugi!” Joey shouted. “Yeah, you can beat this jerk!” Sunset added. The next couple of turns were repeats of the last one, with Kaiba destroying Yugi’s defending Berfomet and Silent Swordsman LV 3. “You’re not faring any better than the old man, Yugi.” He smirked. “Your deck is just as weak and feeble as your grandfather’s.” “My grandpa is a great man and a better duelist than you’ll ever be!” Yugi declared firmly and defiantly. “He helped me build this deck, and it’s that reason which gives me faith in it.” His frown deepened. “I doubt you have that kind of faith in your cards, Kaiba!” Kaiba seemed caught off guard for a moment as Yugi reached for his deck. “But, I believe in my deck!” He drew his next card and smiled. “And, my faith rewards me with Pot of Greed allowing me to draw 2 more cards. 1 of the cards I just drew is Dark Magician(LV 7/2500/2100). The purple robbed spellcaster appeared. Now, Dark Magic Attack!” Dark Magician fired off his magic at the opposing monster destroying it (Yugi 1600/Kaiba 1100). “Way to go, Yugi!” Joey cheered. Sunset smiled. “He has the advantage now!” “Alright, Kaiba.” Yugi was rightfully smug now. “Your move.” Kaiba didn’t seem worried at all. “Ha, this will be over sooner than you think,” He drew his next card, looked at it, and smirked. “I call on the Blue Eyes White Dragon(LV 8/3000/2500)!” All Yugi, Joey, and Sunset could do was stare in utter shock as a huge dragon with blue scales and deep blue eyes appeared. “No way!” Yugi exclaimed. “Impossible!” Joey shouted in disbelief. “Yugi has that card in his deck!” “You mean he actually had one of the other 3 this whole time!?” Sunset shouted in shock. “Surprised?” Kaiba asked with a smug smile. “Did you think your grandfather was the only one to possess a Blue Eyes White Dragon?” He chuckled. “Blue Eyes, destroy that magician with White Lightning!” A ball of blue-white energy formed in its mouth before it launched at Yugi’s Dark Magician blowing it out of existence (Yugi 1100/Kaiba 1100). “Ha! Your magician was decimated!” Kaiba exclaimed. “Faith or no faith, you will fall before my superior monsters, Yugi. Power is what this game is all about, you fool. Faith is for losers!” “Does this guy ever shut up!?” Sunset mentally screamed in complete annoyance. “Geez, did I sound like this when I was still bad?” “I’m far from done Kaiba.” Yugi drew before smirking himself. “My deck has awarded me with one of the cards I needed to make use of another I currently hold. I’ll start by normal summoning Silent Swordsman LV 5(LV 5/2300/1000).” A warrior in a blue trench coat with a huge sword appeared. “Big deal.” Kaiba laughed. “That monster is still weaker than my Blue Eyes and 200 hundred ATK weaker than your Dark Magician was.” “That may be, but I can couple my monster with Silent Sword Slash boosting his ATK and DEF by 1500 ATK until the end of this turn.” Silent Swordsman LV 5(LV 5/3800/2500). “That put his swordsman over Kaiba’s Blue-Eyes.” Sunset declared. “Yeah, it did!” Joey added. “Now, my Swordsman will destroy your Blue-Eyes (Yugi 1100/Kaiba 300).” Yugi declared. Silent Swordsman LV 5(LV 5/2300/1000) Kaiba didn’t seem perturbed in the slightest. “Well, you’ve come further than I thought you would, but I think it’s time I show you just how hopeless this all really is.” He drew. “It all starts with Monster Reborn. This card allows me to special summon any monster from either of our graves, and I’ll target my King of D.(LV 4/1200/1100) before playing him in defense position. With him on the field, I can play that card I added back at the beginning of the duel, Dragon Revival Rhapsody. Since I control a spellcaster, I can target up to two dragon monsters from my grave, the only caveat is that 1 be a normal monster, and I can special summon them. In exchange, you will take no battle damage this turn. If you’ll recall, Graceful Charity had me discard two cards.” “I don’t like where this is going.” Yugi thought. “I target the two Blue-Eyes White Dragon(LV 8/3000/2500)x2 in my grave and special summon them to my field.” Kaiba smirked. “What hope do you have against them? Why don’t you just admit defeat, Yugi?” “Oh, come on!” Sunset thought in indignant anger. “Seriously!? One of the rarest cards in the world, and he happens to have two of the only four copies!? Heck, I wouldn’t be surprised if he has the last one to!” “I never forfeit!” Yugi snapped back. “Well then, why don’t I just show you why you should?” Kaiba chuckle. “After all, I still have my normal summon, and in my hand I hold the third Blue Eyes White Dragon(LV 8/3000/2500)!” Yugi recoiled in shock. “Even if I drew my own Blue-Eyes, it could at best crash into one of Kaiba’s Blue Eyes still leaving him with two.” Sunset just rolled her eyes and face palmed. “Saw that coming,” The third dragon reared up, letting out its signature roar. “Now, my new dragon will wipe out your only line of defense in Silent Swordsman LV 5 with White Lighting.” Silent Swordsman was blown off the field. “Tell me Yugi, where is your faith now!?” “Don’t listen to him, Yugs!” Joey shouted up to his stricken friend. Yugi looked at his current hand trying to think of some way, with them or his next draw, that he could turn this all around. The problem was that his hand, after everything done prior, was left with two legs and two arms of the forbidden one. That was it. “What do I do?” Yugi asked internally. “Even if I draw into Mirror Force, monsters can’t attack directly, and even if they could, I can only summon 1 monster. None of these would be worth the risk. Think! These four of six cards grandpa entrusted to me look like a bunch of pieces. How can I use them to battle an expert like Kaiba?” Suddenly, Yugi began to hear his grandpa’s voice. “For someone who claims to have faith, you’re giving up too easily Yugi. Listen, sometimes the cards are like a puzzle. You must put all the cards in their proper place.” “Like the Millennium Puzzle.” Yugi began to realize the truth. “Exactly.” Mr. Muto’s voice began to fade. “Each piece helps build a greater entity. It’s all about the pieces. Remember!” “Quit your stalling Yugi, or you will forfeit the match.” Kaiba declared. “Just draw your last pathetic card already.” “My only chance to end this is to assemble all five pieces of Exodia, but the odds are against me.” He reached out his hand towards his deck. “I don’t think I can do this.” Suddenly, he could see the deck pulling away from him. “My deck senses my doubt. I can’t lose focus or faith.” His eyes then settled on the black ink which was still on the back of his hand. “Our friendship symbol!” Yugi looked up to see his friends with their hands on his deck. “Yugi, we’re right here with you.” Tea voiced. “Yugi, you’ve got to believe in yourself.” Tristan added. “You can do it. Just kick Kaiba’s butt.” Joey continued. “Remember, what you told me.” Sunset finished. “Believe in your instincts and deck.” “They’re right. I’ve got to believe in the cards like my friends believe in me!” Yugi gained a new determination as he looked at Kaiba. “You told me to draw my last pathetic card, Kaiba; however, this deck has no pathetic cards, but thanks to my grandpa, it does contain…” He drew and held up the card. “… the unstoppable Exodia!” At this, Kaiba’s smug smile vanished in an instant, and it was replaced by a look of utter horror. “Ahhh!! Impossible!!” “I've assembled all five special cards,” Yugi announced as he laid the cards from his hand out in front of him. “All five pieces of the puzzle!” A large star symbol appeared in front of him, before a brown, muscular arm emerged, followed by another, and then the rest of the torso pushed its way out. Sunset was awestruck. This new monster was enormous and radiated power. “Exodia!” Kaiba yelped as he recoiled in fear. “No one has ever been able to summon him!” Yugi then said the final words of the duel. “Exodia! OBLITERATE!!” Exodia formed a ball of bright orange light in its hands before thrusting them forwards unleashing all its power in one massive attack. King of D. and all three Blue Eyes were destroyed. Kaiba let out a final yell of defeat (Yugi 1100/Kaiba 0).” “You did it!” Joey cheered. “Yugi, you won!” “He won?” Sunset was still in awe before her face lit up in a wide, delighted smile. “He won!” she raised her arms in joy. “He did it, Joey! He really did it!” “This can’t be.” The raven-haired boy stated in disbelief. “My brother never loses.” “You play only for power Kaiba, and that is why you lost,” Yugi informed wisely. “But if you put your heart in the game, there's nothing you can’t do.” “But…” Kaiba was unable to accept what had happened. “But how? How could I have lost to him!?” “Kaiba.” A symbol which looked like an eye appeared on Yugi’s forehead. “If you truly want to know, I must shatter the evil in your head!” He thrust out his hand. “MIND CRUSH!” A moment later, a dazed look crossed Kaiba’s face as he slumped to his knees. “There, Kaiba," Yugi lowered his hand. "Now that I’ve smashed the evil within your head, maybe you’ll begin to see.” He then climbed down from the platform as Sunset and Joey ran up to meet him. “That was amazing!” Sunset declared happily. “Congratulations!” “Yeah, Yugi!” Joey added. “You totally kicked snobby Kaiba’s butt!” “I couldn’t have done it without you two, Tristan, and Tea.” Yugi stated with a smile. “When I thought it was all over, I saw the mark Tea gave us and imagined you all right there with me. When I thought I was done, it was you four who gave me the courage to make that last draw.” Sunset could only smile at that. “I can’t recall now if what I had with the girls back in Canterlot was true friendship or not. It’s hard to view it like that after Anon-a-Miss, but I think this is what Twilight meant when she spoke about friendship.” “Aw, come on.” Joey stated. “Enough of this mushy stuff. We got to head over to the hospital and tell everyone the good news. Plus, we got to check up on Gramps!” “You’re right, Joey.” Yugi agreed. “Yeah, let's get out of here.” Sunset couldn't agree with Joey more. “This place is stuffy after all the hot air escaped when dragon boy’s blimp sized ego got popped.” They all laughed heartily as they left the arena. Hospital Once everyone arrived at the hospital, the others cleared out to give Yugi time with his grandpa. “Grandpa, I won!” He smiled warmly. “I saved your treasure and protected our home.” He then presented the Blue-Eyes White Dragon. “See, it’s right here.” Grandpa smiled as he shed tears of joy at the sight of his most valued treasure. “Yugi, I always intended to pass my treasure onto you later, but you’ve proven you’re ready for it.” He gently pushed the card to his grandson. “Keep it for your deck and take good care of it for me.” “I will grandpa.” Yugi nodded. “I’ll never let this card out of my sight.” Outside the Room Joey yawned and stretched. “I think we should get out of here.” “Yeah, it’s past visiting hours,” Tristan agreed. “I suppose it is kind of late.” Tea stated. “Besides, I think we should leave the two of them alone.” Sunset stated. Sunset’s Apartment: Night… Upon returning home, Sunset took a seat at her desk and fanned out her deck before her. After seeing Yugi defeat Kaiba, a new flame had been lit within her. She wanted to be a better duelist. Sunset smiled warmly. “I think I’m going to like it here.” ? Somewhere, within a darkened room, the silhouette of a man stood in a lighted doorway as he reported to his boss. “Mr. Pegasus, Seto Kaiba, our uncontested champion, has been defeated in a Duel by someone named Yugi Muto.” His boss, a man with long silver hair which covered his left eye, smirked. In that moment, something flashed beneath his hair where his left eye should be.