Canterlot High: Day…
Flash Sentry walked along the halls of Canterlot High which had taken a noticeable turn in the last two weeks. That was only to be expected when everyone learned who Anon-a-Miss was, and that Sunset had left before the truth could come to light.
Honestly, the Wondercolts hadn’t been like this before. They’ve been united and divided in various ways, but now everything was cold. People started hanging around each other again, like when Twilight Sparkle brought them together, but no one was particularly happy.
On the bright side for Anon-a-Miss, Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Bell, people seemed to have learned something about piling all their problems down on one person. Despite them being the cause of all this, everyone was taking some form of responsibility.
That’s not to say the girls were forgiven. They got the worst of the cold shoulders. Still, no one treated them particularly bad. Well, unless you counted detention every day until the end of this year, no after school activities, and whatever punishments their respective families gave them.
It wasn’t his place to pry but given how subdued those three were the first day after everything came to light, the guy could imagine. Mainly, everyone seemed to be trying to move past this. Sunset wasn’t here to seek forgiveness from, and she’d even deleted her social media accounts.
Given how things turned out with her, perhaps most just didn’t want to repeat their mistakes with three young girls. That’s not to say Sunset was completely forgotten. Despite hearing that some of them were going to let her go, all the Rainbooms were trying to find Sunset.
As high school girls, even as capable as they were, they had little to go one. Still, they were each following whatever leads they could gather. As for Flash himself, he was, to his knowledge, the only other person trying to figure out where Sunset was.
He had no intention of trying to take her from whatever life she was building now, but the rocker wanted to apologize. Granted, he was among a minority that though Sunset wasn’t Anon-a-Miss, but that didn’t mean his hands were clean from this whole affair.
Unlike the others who simply believed she was innocent, Flash knew it. He’d dated Sunset long enough to know that Anon-a-Miss’ M.O. didn’t fit Sunset. Both were bullies, but their methods differed. Simply put, Anon-a-Miss was to direct. Even knowing this, Flash didn’t speak up.
“I think I know why I didn’t.” Flash sighed as he stopped at his locker. “I was with Sunset longer than anyone thought I would be. I saw a kinder side to her. Thought maybe I could bring that out. I tried so hard, but she just wouldn’t change.
That hurt, and breaking up with her at the time, even though I knew we couldn’t remain together, hurt even worse. I thought I’d moved past that, but some small part of me felt vindicated when I saw what she was being put through. Now, all I feel is sick to my stomach.
After I broke up with Sunset, she left me relatively alone. Well, she did turn into that demon, but she ensnared almost everyone to be her mind-controlled army. If I’d just spoken up, maybe things would be different. Guess we were more similar than I thought.”
Flash didn’t care if Sunset returned or wanted to stay wherever she was now. All he wanted was for her to know that he was sorry. In the meantime, as he tried to learn just where she’d gone, he hopped she was somewhere better than this.
Domino City: Streets, Morning…
It has been several days since Yugi’s defeat of Kaiba and life seemed to be finding its way back to normalcy. Sunset Shimmer was on her way to Domino High deep in thought about everything that happened on her first day at her new school.
“Hey Sunset, wait up!” She was snapped out of her thoughts when she heard Tea’s voice.
“Hey, Tea.” Sunset greeted as she waited for her friend.
Once Tea caught up with her, she smiled. “Did you hear the good news? Yugi’s grandpa is getting discharged from the hospital today.”
“That’s great.” Sunset smiled with relief. “We should tell Joey and Tristan if Yugi hasn’t.”
Domino Academy
Sunset and Tea made it to class before the first bell and waited for the boys to arrive.
As they walked in, Yugi saw the girls and waved. “Morning Tea. Morning Sunset.”
“Hey Yugi.” Sunset greeted.
“Hi Yugi.” Tea nodded. “Sunset and I heard your grandpa is getting out of the hospital today.”
“That’s right.” Yugi declared with a big smile.
Joey grinned as he wrapped an arm around Yugi’s neck. “Since he’s returning, we’ll have a party at Yugi’s house.”
Tristan playfully ruffled the guy’s hair. “Naturally, you two would be welcome to join in.”
Yugi struggled to escape from the boys. “Ahh, cut it out you two!”
Sunset and Tea just laughed at the boys’ antics. In that moment, Sunset couldn’t help but remember her former friends, and it even brought tears to her eyes.
“Sunset, what’s wrong?” Tea pulled out a tissue. “Why are you crying?”
Sunset took the tissue and wiped away her tears. “Sorry, I just couldn’t help myself.” She shook her head dismissively. “It’s nothing to worry about.”
“Wow, you're a crybaby Sunset.” Tristan’s teasing remark earned his foot a stomping courtesy of Tea. “Ow, what was that for!?”
Tea glared at him with her hands on her hips. “Because you deserved it, jerk.”
Joey laughed. “She’s got you there, Tristan.”
“Very funny, Joey.” Tristan muttered sarcastically.
“Hey guys.” Yugi decided to change subjects. “What do you think happened to Kaiba?”
Tristan shrugged. “Ahh, who cares?”
“Knowing Rich Boy, he’s probably crying with his billions of dollars.'' Joey added dismissively.
“It's just…ever since our duel, he hasn’t been in school.” Yugi stated.
“Never mind that.” Tea stated. “Just think about your grandpa finally returning home.”
“Yeah, I guess you’re right.” Yugi stated.
At that moment, the teacher entered the room.
Kame Game Shop: Night…
Once school was over, Sunset and the others headed to Yugi’s home to get everything ready for Grandpa’s welcome home party. There was a spread of food and drinks. Once everything was ready, Sunset looked out of the window and saw a car pull up.
“Hey guys, they're here!” Sunset informed.
As Yugi and his grandpa entered, the lights were turned on and everyone yelled, “Welcome home, Grandpa!”
Grandpa laughed heartily from the great surprise. “Ohh ho, it’s so good to be home!”
Soon, the party was in full swing, and everyone was having a great time.
Sunset felt a sense of great happiness being here until a certain thought entered her mind. “This party doesn’t compare to a Pinkie party, but…”
Her smile took a noticeable turn. The first week she was here, Sunset worked hard to stop thinking about CHS and everything that entailed. That ended up with her taking a lot of walks. Once she found this group, it became easier.
Still, thoughts slipped into her mind from time to time. It’s why she teared up earlier, and why she felt down right now. Sunset walked up to her friends who noticed something was off with her again.
“Sunset, is everything alright?” Yugi asked concerned.
“I’m suddenly not feeling well, so I think I’m going to head home.” Sunset replied.
“Well, if you’re not feeling okay, I could walk you home.” Tristan offered genuinely.
“Yeah, Tristan and I could both come with ya.” Joey added.
“No, it’s quite alright.” Sunset walked towards the door. “There’s no need to trouble yourselves. I’ll be fine.”
The others all looked at each other for a good minute not quite sure what they should do.
Eventually, Tea spoke up. “You three stay here, and I’ll go after her.”
Park
Sunset had no real intention of returning to her apartment. She simply walked from Kame Game Shop to the nearby park, which was empty at this time of night, and took a seat on the bench.
“Everything’s been going alright, but if that were really the case, why can’t I get CHS out of my mind?” Tears started to well up in her eyes. “I don’t want to return to that. I know it for a fact.” Sunset wiped her eyes. “Even with new friends, why does it still…”
Her thoughts stopped as a pair of arms wrapped her in a comforting hug. Sunset turned to see Tea, who had taken a seat next to her, who wordlessly wrapped her arms around the sad teen.
“Sunset, I knew you were hurting, but I didn’t think it was this bad.” Tea stated. “What’s wrong?”
Sunset made no move to get out of the hug, but she did look away. “It’s complicated.” She sighed. “More than you could possibly know.”
Tea let her go but put a comforting hand on her shoulder. “Sunset, I’m your friend, so you can talk to me, you know?”
Sunset hesitated until she gave in. Obviously, even with the bit of weirdness she’s noticed, the girl left out herself coming from Equestria and magic. She still told Tea about everything else. She even weaved in the other aspects just in a way that sounded more normal.
Sunset didn’t try to sugarcoat anything or make herself seem better. The thing is she didn’t even mean to spill that much about her past. It was like a faucet had been turned on and wouldn’t stop until she got it all out there in some way.
When she was done, rather than the rejection she’d expected, Tea hugged her comfortingly once more. “Wow, I had no idea you were going through so much.”
“I…” Sunset looked down in shock before looking at her friend. “How can you be alright with everything I told you?”
“Sunset, you made a lot of mistakes, but I don’t think it’s those mistakes which should define you.” Tea pulled back one more time. “After everything you did, you tried to make up for it, and it’s clear you are no longer that queen bee.
While it’s clear most of CHS didn’t forgive you for your past, you still made five friends who seemed to have forgiven you. In the end, they failed you. They choose to give you a chance, but when you needed them, they turned on you.
I get the sense that you feel, even a little bit, that you deserved what happened, but no one deserves something like that. I’m sorry you had to go through that, and I’m especially sorry that when you needed them, your friends weren’t there for you. All I can say is, that won’t be us.”
“Thanks, Tea,” Sunset smiled at that and rubbed her eyes. “It means a lot, but do you think maybe we couldn’t tell the boys about this right now? I want to do it at my own pace.”
“Consider it done.” Tea agreed before getting an idea. “Sunset, my parents are away for a while, and I don’t want to leave you alone tonight. Would it be okay if I slept over at your place for the night?”
“I think I’d like that.” Sunset stated.
Sunset’s Apartment: Morning…
The next day, Sunset awoke to the sound of her alarm clock. She groaned sleepily before getting up and walking out of her room to find Tea doing the same from the couch.
“Hey Sunset, how are you feeling today?” Tea asked.
“After our talk last night, and a good night’s sleep, I feel a lot better.” Sunset nodded contently. “Thanks Tea.”
Tea smiled warmly. “I’m glad you’re feeling better.”
They then got ready and had some breakfast before heading off to school.
Domino Academy: Later…
Sunset was currently sat across from Joey as they played a game of duel monsters. Yugi, Tea, and Tristan were watching along with a few others.
(Sunset 2000/Joey 500)
Sunset’s Field
3 cards in hand
1 set card
Elemental Hero Avian(LV 3/1000/1000)
Joey’s Field
2 card in hand
Joey’s Turn
“You’re pretty tough Sunset, but let’s see how ya handle my Destroyer Golem(LV 4/1500/1000).” Joey declared. “He’ll knock your Avian’s block off.”
“I activate my face down Negate Attack.” Sunset declared.
“Alright, you stopped my attack, but your winged bird man has no hope of crushin’ my rock guy.” Joey leaned back in his chair. “You should just give up.”
“You are right in that he’s too weak to defeat your rock…” Sunset drew and smiled. “…but my heroes have a city they wish to protect. I activate Skyscraper. With this, any Elemental Hero who does battle with a monster stronger than them will gain 1000 ATK during the Battle Phase.”
“Wait, can she do that?” Joey asked.
“You bet she can.” Yugi assured.
“My Avian will destroy your Golem (Sunset 2000/Joey 0).” Sunset declared. “Sorry Joey. Sometimes, that’s how the cards go.”
“You stink at this game,” Tristan teased.
Joey groaned despondently as he slammed his head down on the desk.
“Cheer up, Joey.” Tea stated. “You’ll get there eventually.”
“Oh yeah, like that makes me feel better.” Joey mumbled.
Break
Sunset was hanging out with Joey and Yugi.
“Tristan’s right.” Joey stated. “I do stink. I can’t win at Duel Monsters to save my life.” He turned to look at his friends. “Why can’t I win? Teach me what I’m doing wrong.”
“Huh, why are you asking me?” Sunset asked. “Yugi’s got me beat.”
“That’s only Yugs.” Joey respnded. “Ever since you saw him in action, anyone else whose challenged ya can’t beat ya.” He sighed. “Me included. Come on, having you two help me is bound to be better than just one of you.”
“I suppose I can give it a try.” Sunset stated.
“I think the best place to start would be for us to have a look at your deck.” Yugi stated.
“My deck?” Joey fished it out of his pocket. “Sure, here you go.”
Yugi looked through it followed by Sunset.
“Powerhouse line up, don’t you think?” Joey asked.
“No one could win with these.” Yugi retorted. “Joey, your deck is all monsters.”
“You got it.” Joey stated proudly. “I outfitted that deck with every butt kicking monster I could find.”
“But, that’s not how the game works.” Yugi stated. “Duel monsters is all about combining monsters with spell/trap cards. With no cards to back up your monsters, you’ll get creamed.”
“Not to mention, all you have are vanilla monsters.” Sunset added. “While that can work as a strategy, you aren’t running any cards to make it happen.”
“See, this is the kind of stuff I got to learn!” Joey ran over and stood before them. “You two are the most knowledgeable people I know when it comes to Duel Monsters. You must teach me.”
“I’m not exactly a master or expert myself.” Sunset stated.
“Same here, but I know someone who is.” Yugi stated.
Kame Game Shop
The small group were walking to the shop.
“My grandpa is the game expert in the family, so maybe he can help.” Yugi stated as they walked inside. “Hey grandpa, I brought you a new student!”
Grandpa had been putting up a new poster when he turned to see them. “New student?’
“Yugi told us you taught him everything he knows, so maybe you could help Joey become better at the game.” Sunset replied.
“Yeah, how’s about passing some of that knowledge down to me?” Joey added.
“Pass down some knowledge?” Grandpa questioned. “Duel Monsters is a complicated game.”
“Tell me about it.” Joey responded. “Tea’s beat me three games in a row, Sunset has me beat five games in a row, and I’m in the double digits when it comes to Yugi.”
“Hm, I could teach you to be a great tournament duelist, but only if you are prepared to spend endless days and sleepless nights filled with rigorous training.” Grandpa stated.
“I think Joey is prepared to do whatever it takes to bring out the full strength and potential of his deck.” Sunset stated.
Joey nodded. “Yeah, train me to be a true dueling champ over here.”
Grandpa was starting at his prospective student closely.
“Come on, grandpa.” Yugi spoke up. “He’s serious about improving so take a chance. I’m sure he won’t let you down.”
“I’ll agree on one condition.” Grandpa nodded. “You must work hard, Joseph.”
Joey quickly nodded. “I promise!”
“Fine, then we shall begin your instruction immediately. Believe me…” Grandpa cracked his knuckles. “…under my tutelage, you will learn.”
Kame Game Shop: 2 Weeks Later, Night…
The gang was currently gathered at Yugi’s home to watch the Duel Monsters Regional Championship Finals between Weevil Underwood and Rex Raptor.
“Bug Boy vs Dinosaur Breath? What kind of match is that?” Joey groaned. “That should have been me out there!”
“I know you have been training for weeks, but those guys are in a whole other league.” Tea spoke up. “You’re just not ready yet.”
Sunset looked at the two duelists on the TV. “So, what do you know about these guys Yugi?”
“Well, Weevil specializes in insects, and he’s a great strategist.” Yugi informed. “Then, you’ve got Rex Raptor and his dinosaurs. He uses their power to overwhelm his opponents.”
“Itsy bitsy bugs vs dueling dinosaurs?” Joey smirked. “Raptor has got this one in the bag.”
“I wouldn't be so sure.” Yugi retorted.
“Of course, with my new deck and Gramps’ training, I can take them both on.” Joey bragged as he opened a can of soda.
“So, how was Mr. Moto’s training?” Tea asked.
Joey's faces turned blue, and he ended up crouched in the corner. “FIRST RULE OF GRANDPA’S TRAINING! DON'T TALK ABOUT GRANDPA’S TRAINING!”
Everyone was taken aback by this.
“Are you crying?” Tristan asked.
“SECOND RULE OF GRANDPA’S TRAINING!”
“What did that sweet, old man do to him?” Tea asked in fear.
“Yugi, did your training result in that?” Sunset asked.
“No.” Yugi nervously chuckled while scratching his cheek. “Grandpa went a little harder on Joey than he did me.”
Later…
The Championship had just ended with Weevil Underwood as the winner. The announcer then presented the creator of Duel Monsters himself, Maximillion Pegasus, who presented the championship trophy to Weevil. He then announced he was hosting a new Duel Monsters tournament at a location called Duelist Kingdom.
“Hmm, a new tournament?” Sunset wondered. “Wish I could compete.”
“Oh man, I would kill to join that tournament!” Joey declared excitedly.
“No way man.” Tristan chuckled. “You wouldn’t last 10 minutes.”
“Say’s you, Tristan!” Joey shot back.
Just then, grandpa entered the room holding a package. “Yugi, this package came for you.”
“A package?” Yugi asked. “What is it grandpa?”
“I don’t know.” Grandpa replied. “It just came in the mail.”
Yugi took the package and looked closely at it. “It’s from Industrial Illusions!”
“Industrial Illusions!” Joey voiced. “That’s the company that makes Duel Monster cards.”
“Why would they be sending a package to you out of the blue like this, Yugi?” Sunset asked.
“I have no idea.” Yugi replied. “Could it be they heard I beat the world champion?”
“You mean Kaiba?” Tea asked.
“That jerk.” Sunset scowled. “I’ll never forgive him for what he did.”
“Well anyway, why don’t you go ahead and open your package, Yugi?” Grandpa questioned.
Yugi opened it to reveal a VHS, a red, fingerless glove with a thick white cuff, and two little golden stars. “Hmm what’s this?”
“Pop it in and check it out.” Joey responded.
Yugi took the tape from the box and put it in the player.
The video started, and Pegasus appeared on screen. “Greetings, little Yugi.” The creator of the game smiled. “I am Maximillion Pegasus.”
“Pegasus?” Joey asked.
“We just saw him on tv.” Tea commented.
“The famous Maximillion Pegasus sends greetings to my Yugi?” Grandpa questioned intrigued.
“I have heard some interesting things about you.” Pegasus went on, and something about his voice made Sunset feel uneasy.
“Huh?” Yugi uttered.
“Your impressive defeat of Seto Kaiba intrigued me, so I decided to investigate your amazing dueling skills personally.” Pegasus explained. “We shall hold a special duel. We’ll play with a strict time limit of 15 minutes. If my life points are lower than yours, before time is up, then you win. Are you ready?”
“He can’t seriously expect you to duel against a video tape!” Joey exclaimed.
“That’s crazy.” Tristan added.
“Uh guys.” Sunset stated nervously as she looked at the silver haired man on the screen as he looked out at them with a suddenly sinister smirk. “I don’t know how, but I think he’s serious.”
“What do you mean, Sunset?” Yugi asked as he looked back at her.
Before she could answer, Pegasus gave a dark chuckle. Beneath the locks of his silver hair, his left eye glowed. Suddenly, the room turned dark and shadowy. Everyone, except Yugi and Sunset, became frozen like lifeless statues.
Sunset looked at herself and noticed she was glowing a dim white. “This is kind of like what happened shortly before we found Blue-Eyes on the street. This time, it feels less like my magic. What is going on?”
“Everything’s grown cold and dark.” Yugi looked around. “Sunset, you’re not frozen like the rest. How…”
“I don’t know Yugi.” Sunset interrupted. “Well, that’s not entirely true. I know this is magic, and it’s likely in line with what I’ve managed to study on this world’s magic. Though, that’s as far as my knowledge goes. This isn’t like Equestrian Magic.”
“Interesting.” Pegasus looked at her now just as intrigued as he was with Yugi. “Could she be the one that woman was looking for? While my eye shows me much about her, the answer to that question is concealed.” He chuckled darkly. “Well, Ms. Shimmer.
Seems your dueling warrants study to. It’s a shame I cannot change the rules, but it seems you have bypassed this being a one-on-one encounter. So, I’ll add new rules. Life points are at two thousand, own fields and graves, I’ll get two turns, and we can only attack on our second.”
“What if we don’t agree?” Sunset asked.
“Ms. Shimmer, you may have gotten into this game, but I promise you won’t be able to leave it just like that.” Pegasus informed. “That said, I will return you both after our game.”
“I don’t think we have a chose, Sunset.” Yugi stated.
Sunset moved next to Yugi. “Nope, doesn’t sound like it.”
“It’s time to duel!” They declared.
Yugi’s puzzle glowed like it did against Kaiba, and he changed once more.
“Start the clock and make your move Pegasus.” Yugi declared more confidently.
“Certainly.” Pegasus stated. “Let the game begin.”
15:00
(Yugi 2000 & Sunset 2000/Pegasus 2000)
Pegasus drew. “I’ll activate the continuous spell Triple Summon. The turn this is activated, I’m allowed to perform up to three normal summons. In exchange, I cannot perform my Draw Phase again, or even add cards, except by one effect, until the monsters summoned are destroyed.
Additionally, I’ll have locked myself out of special summons under the same restrictions. I’ll summon Barrier Statue of the Abyss(LV 4/1000/1000), Barrier Statue of the Heavens(LV 4/1000/1000), and Barrier Statue of the Inferno(LV 4/1000/1000) in defense position.”
A black fiendish statue, a white fairy statue, and a red monster statue all appeared.
“He summoned three monsters on his first turn.” Sunset stated shocked.
“Yes, but don’t forget he can’t do anything further except tribute.” Yugi informed. “As long as those monsters are on his field, he’s locked out of special summoning. Ritual. Fusion, Synchro, and Xyz may go by those names, but they’re still special all the same.”
“Oh pity, looks like I made a miscalculation.” Pegasus chuckled. “Oh well.” That certainly clued both in that this move had more to it even with the restrictions put in place. “Anyways, either of you may now go.”
“I’ll take the next move.” Yugi drew and picked the card he intended to summon. “We will beat you to save our friends.”
Pegasus’ covered eye glowed. “You won’t save anyone with your Silent Swordsman LV 3.”
“How?” Yugi questioned shocked.
“Wait, he knew what you were going to play?” Sunset questioned just as shocked.
“Neither of you have dueled someone like me.” Pegasus informed. “I know every move you will make before you make it. Allow me to clarify. This dark dimension is known as the Shadow Realm. A mystical realm where incredible monsters can be summoned, and the impossible is quite possible.”
“What you’re telling us can’t be true.” Yugi retorted.
“The proof is before you.” Pegasus referred to his three monsters. “See, there is magic in these cards, but the game itself was not truly invented by me. The Egyptians call this the Shadow Games.
Powerful pharaohs would hold mystical duels in other dimensions just as we do now. Though, they used real monsters and magic. Real mystical forces so powerful the Egyptians nearly lost control of them and nearly destroyed the entire world.”
“I’ve heard out your story Pegasus, but this is still a duel.” Yugi declared. “I will still summon my Silent Swordsman LV 3(LV 3/1000/1000).” A small warrior in a blue and silver trench coat with a large sword appeared. “I’ll then equip him with Black Pendant which raises his ATK by 500.” Silent Swordsman LV 3(LV 3/1500/1000 effect). “He’ll destroy Inferno.”
“That activates the secondary effect of Triple Summon which is the one affect that allows me to add cards.” Pegasus informed. “When a monster summoned the turn this card was activated is destroyed, I’m allowed to draw 1 card.
I must say, you two are quite entertaining in your determination. In the end, you are simply ignorant to the powers you wield. Yugi-boy, you have no idea what your Millennium Puzzle can do. Ms. Shimmer, you are sought by someone, and it’s not for the magic you think.”
“What?” Yugi/Sunset questioned shocked/curious.
“Yugi-boy, five thousand years ago, a powerful pharaoh locked the magic of the Shadow Games away within seven Millennium Items. That puzzle around your neck is one of them. As for you, Ms. Shimmer, your light has caught my interest. I could be wrong, but your magic may very well be a seal. If I were you, I’d reexamine where I truly came from.”
“Where I come from?” Sunset thought. “Does that mean I don’t come from Equestria, but… Wait, my earliest memory is as a foal crying in Canterlot Garden before I was found by Celestia. After that, she raised me before making me her student. I might not be a unicorn!”
“Why are you even telling us this?” Yugi asked.
“Why?” Pegasus asked. “It’s simply because I want you to know. Though, I have perhaps said too much. Since the clock is still ticking, I propose we continue the game.”
“I have nothing more I can do except for setting two cards.” Yugi stated.
“I’ll set two cards of my own and end my turn.” Pegasus informed.
“That means it’s my turn.” Sunset took a deep breath. “Okay, existential questions about what I am later.” She drew. “Continuing this duel now.” She took a card from her hand. “I activate Polymerization.” To her shock, the card sparked before vanishing to the grave. “W-What!?”
“The barrier statues each have their own effects that are quite similar.” Pegasus chuckled. “To keep it simple, there are six, and each corresponds to an attribute. When they are on the field, they only allow monsters of their attribute to be special summoned.”
“If each statue only allows the monster of their attribute to be special summoned, then controlling a minimum of two means no one can special summon any monsters.” Sunset inferred.
“Right you are.” Pegasus smirked. “Though, one would have been plenty to prevent you from summoning your Flame Wingman.”
Yugi inferred from Sunset’s shocked expression that she had intended to bring out her Elemental Hero Flame Wingman. Considering they were facing defense position monsters, his effect to deal the ATK of a destroyed monster to the controller would have come in handy.
“Alright, if I can’t use Flame Wingman, I’ll just have to summon Elemental Hero Striking Sparkman(LV 4/1900/1500).” A hero that looked near identical to Sparkman, except with chrome armor, appeared.
“While Sparkman alone is a strong monster, Striking has an effect. Once per turn, I can target any one monster on the field and switch their battle position. I’ll switch your Barrier Statue of the Abyss to ATK position.”
“I’ll now activate my face down Ambush Shield.” Yugi declared. “This card allows me to tribute one monster I control and grant ATK to another monster on the field equal to that monster’s DEF.
I’ll tribute my Swordsman to grant Sparkman ATK.” Elemental Hero Striking Sparkman(LV 4/2900/1500 effect). “That’s not all because Black Pendant was sent to the grave, and when it goes there, my opponent takes 500 life points of damage.”
(Yugi 2000 & Sunset 2000/Pegasus 1500)
“Thanks Yugi.” Sunset nodded as Yugi gave her a thumbs up. “Now, Striking Sparkman will destroy Abyss.”
“Can’t let you nearly wipe out all my life points like that. I’ll chain my face down, quick-play Emergency Provisions.” Pegasus countered. “This allows me to send any other spell/trap cards I control to the grave and gain 1000 life points. I’ll be doing that with my face down and Triple Summon. Not to worry, Triple Summon’s effects last even after it leaves the field.”
The cards vanished into the grave before Sparkman blasted Abyss (Yugi 2000 & Sunset 2000/Pegasus 1500-3500-1600). “You also just sent a second monster summoned when Triple Summoned was played, meaning I can draw another card.”
“Looks like he came out alright.” Sunset admitted begrudgingly.
“He has; however, we still brought him one step closer to defeat thanks to how you played your last turn.” Yugi declared. “That means we’re one step closer to saving our friends.”
“Right.” Sunset nodded. “I’ll set one card and end my turn.”
“Well then, it’s my move.” Pegasus declared. “I’ll first switch my last statue to ATK mode before activating Creature Swap. This handy little spell forces my opponent and I to each choose a monster and swap them.”
“That means…” Sunset began.
“I get control of your empowered Striking Sparkman while you take my Barrier Statue of the Heavens.” Pegasus declared. “Now, I’ll have him attack your statue.”
“I activate my face down Half or Nothing!” Sunset declared. “Now, you make a choice to either end the Battle Phase or Half the ATK of all monsters you control until the end of the Battle Phase.”
“I’ll first chain the Quick-Play spell Rush Recklessly to target my Elemental Hero Striking Sparkman(LV 4/3600/1500 effect) granting him 700 more ATK. Then, I’ll choose to half his ATK to continue my ATK.”
Elemental Hero Striking Sparkman(LV 4/1800/1500 effect)
Barrier Statue of Heavens was destroyed (Yugi 2000 & Sunset 1200/Pegasus 1600).
Elemental Hero Striking Sparkman(LV 4/2900/1500 effect)
“Since that was my last statue, I get to draw one last card and am no longer bond by and Triple Summon’s effects. I’ll then normal summon Alexandrite Dragon(LV 4/2000/100).” A large, bipedal dragon appeared. “I’ll combo it with Ectoplasmer.
This spell, at the end of each player’s turn, requires that we tribute 1 monster we control. Then, we deal damage to 1 player equal to half that monster’s ATK. I’ll tribute my Alexandrite Dragon and deal half his ATK to you, Yugi-boy (Yugi 1000 & Sunset 1200/Pegasus 1600).”
“Before you end your turn, I activate my face down Call of the Haunted.” Yugi declared. “This card allows me to return any monster from my grave back to my field. The only monster I have is my Silent Swordsman LV 3(LV 3/1000/1000).”
“Interesting.” Pegasus chuckled. “I’ll end my turn there.”
“It’s my move!” Yugi drew. “I activate the effect of Silent Swordsman LV 3. During my Standby Phase, I can send him to the graveyard to special summon a monster two levels higher from my deck or hand.
Come forth Silent Swordsman LV 5(LV 5/2300/1000).” A warrior in a blue trench coat with a huge sword appeared. “Why stop there where I can activate my Level Up!? This spell allows me to send any LV monster I control to the graveyard.
Then, I can special summon another listed in the sent card’s text from my hand or deck. I sent my Silent Swordsman LV 5 to the grave to special summon Silent Swordsman LV 7(LV 7/2800/1000).” A taller warrior in a blue trench coat and with the same sword appeared.
“While he negates any spell effect that would be on the field, I have a card that can’t be negated. I activate Silent Sword Slash boosting his ATK and DEF by 1500 ATK until the end of this turn.” Silent Swordsman LV 7(LV 7/4300/1000).”
“Amazing.” Sunset smiled. “That’s enough to take out Striking Sparkman and lower his life points below either of ours!”
“She’s right Pegasus.” Yugi smirked. “My swordsman ends this by destroying your Striking
Sparkman with Silent Sword Slash!”
Silent Swordsman LV 7 rushed forward and was mere inches from cutting down Striking Sparkman when the clock reach 0 causing both monsters to vanish (Yugi 1000 & Sunset 1200/Pegasus 1600) Pegasus wins.”
“Hm, well we’ve ran out of time.” Pegasus informed. “Still, how close was that? If that final attack had gone through, I’d have lost, but I didn’t. In the end, I’ve taken a measure of how skilled you two are. When next any of us duel, we’ll play for much higher stakes.”
“We’re done with your games.” Yugi declared.
“Agreed.” Sunset stated.
“You presume I’m giving you a choice in the matter, but I’m not.” Pegasus revealed his Millennium Eyes. “See, I too poses one of the seven Millennium Items. The powerful Millennium Eye.”
“A Millennium Eye!?” Yugi exclaimed shocked.
“That’s right. Yugi-boy.” Pegasus replied. “I’ll show you the true extent of its powers.” A beam of magic fired from the TV and hit grandpa. “You see, I have found, given the right incentive, anyone can be made to play my games.”
Mr. Muto’s soul was pulled into the TV. “Yugi!”
“Grandpa!” Yugi exclaimed worriedly as he rushed to the TV.
“Hey, give him back!” Sunset shouted angrily.
“Oh, two for one.” Pegasus chuckled. “How fortunate. I’ll be sending you a package shortly Mr. Shimmer. Weather it’s through my tournament or other means, I shall duel you two again. That is, if you ever want to reclaim this soul.”
Then, everything returned to normal with Grandpa’s body falling lifelessly to the floor.
Yugi desperately grasped the sides of the TV. “Grandpa!? Grandpa!!?? GRANDPA!!!???”
“Hey, what happened?” Tea asked before seeing the limp body of Grampa. “Mr. Moto are you alright!?”
“Call the hospital, immediately!” Sunset yelled at the others.
Everyone panicked and rushed to call for help.
Grandpa’s Hospital Room: Later…
The gang was gathered around Yugi’s Grandpa’s hospital bed. Since Yugi was distraught over what happened, Sunset took over explaining what happened after they blacked out.
“WHAT!?” Joey yelled. “Sunset, you can’t be serious!”
“She’s telling you guys the truth!” Yugi shouted on the verge of tears.
“You guys seriously expect us to believe that a recording of Pegasus used a freaky magic eye to take Yugi’s Grandpa’s soul after you lost to him in a duel?” Tristan questioned. “I’m sorry, but it sounds farfetched to me.”
“I don’t think we can brush this off.” Tea reasoned. “Yugi and Sunset both experienced the same thing. Plus, just look at Yugi’s Grandpa.”
“Look, I know this all sounds crazy.” Sunset voiced. “The fact is, Mr. Muto was perfectly healthy as determined by the hospital. Then, he collapsed after Yugi played that tape from Pegasus.
Also, Pegasus said he wanted to duel Yugi just as he started to play the tape, and do any of you remember what happened next?” When no one answered, she went on. “Yugi and I are the only ones who could tell you what happened after that.”
The others stared at her in silence for a moment before Joey spoke in a subdued tone. “You’re right Sunset. This whole thing is out there, but you two are our friends. How can we not believe what you’re sayin’?”
“You're right, Joey.” Tristan stated with a look of guilt. “If we can’t trust our friends when they’re serious, then what’s the point of being friends in the first place. We’re so sorry for doubting you two.”
“Thanks guys.” Yugi wiped the tears from his eyes. “I forgive you.”
Sunset had sincerely just wanted everyone to believe Yugi, but she couldn’t deny that it felt nice having them believe her. Unlike her former friends, these two listened to her side and we’re apologizing. It’s just like how Tea listened to her before.
“I forgive you two as well.” She nodded sincerely. “Thanks for believing us.”
“Listen, it’s getting late.” Tea spoke up. “I think we should all be getting home.”
“Yeah, you’re right.” Tristan added. “Visiting hours will be over soon anyways.”
“Yeah, come on guys.” Joey led the others out of the room. “Let’s get outta here.”
As Sunset walked to the door, she looked back to see Yugi still standing by his grandpa’s bed. “Yugi.” He looked at her. “It sounds like Pegasus will be inviting us both to his tournament now. I just want you to know that I’ll be dueling to rescue your grandpa to.”
“Thanks Sunset.” Yugi managed a smile at that. “That means a lot.”
Sunset nodded and left the room after the others.