//------------------------------//
// The Gauntlet is Thrown 
// Story: Duel Monsters Are Magic: The Original King of Games 
// by snivygamer97 
//------------------------------//

Inside of the sweet shop that Pinkie Pie works at when the Mane 4 are off duty, one week after the Kaiba incident...

	Tea


	2300 LP


	Joey


	700 LP

“Joey, make a move already,” Tristan said as Joey was taking forever to make a move.
“Okay, here you go, tough guy. My Rock Ogre Grotto 1's gonna rock your block off (800 Attack),” Joey responds.
“Kinda a weak monster to play on the attack, especially since he doesn’t have an effect,” Spike noted.
“I know! But…maybe he has a way to counter an attack,” Pinkie suggested.
“Um…good point, Pinkie? He could have a spell or trap to play,” Rarity agreed with some confusion.
“Yep! Good point! Maybe he’ll win this time!” Pinkie said.
“I end my turn,” Joey said as the other fell over comically.
“Seriously? That’s all? You don’t have spells or traps to help you out at all? Even I know to use them!” Rainbow complained.
“Yeah! Even though you’ve lost like three times each to each of us,” Pinkie Pie said as Rainbow looked annoyed.
“Gee, thanks,” Rainbow grumbled sarcastically.
“You’re welcome!” Pinkie said, not noticing the sarcasm out of naivete.
“Hmmm…, I’ll play Sunny Petit Angel in Defense mode (Level 3/Fairy/Light/600 Attack/900 Defense/Looks like Petit Angel with a harp),” Tea said as she placed a card in defense mode.
“Yeah, Téa. Like that wimpy card has a chance against my giant rock guy. Give it up!” Joey said.
“I wouldn’t give up yet, Tea! Remember, you’re in the lead!” Rainbow cheered on.
“Gee, thanks. But…it doesn’t matter. I can still win this Duel!” Joey said.
“Yep, you can. I guess I don't stand a chance... unless maybe I use the Breath of Life card,” Tea played the spell card
“Huh? Can she do that?” Joey asked.
“Oh yeah, the Breath of Life wears down rock monsters,” Yugi confirmed.
“It reduces them to rubble,” Tristan confirmed.
“How is that?” Rainbow asked.
“Simple. It can destroy any Rock monster on the field, like with Rock Ogre Grotto 1,” Spike pointed out.
“And…Due to Sunny Petit Angel, Joey takes 800 Damage every time a monster he controls is destroyed.
“So…Joey loses!” Rainbow realized.
“Ahh!” Joey screamed.
“Yep, the others are correct. That brings your life-points down to zero, Joey. Once again, you lose, and I rock,” 
“You stink at this game, Joey,” Tristan teased.
Joey groans as Pinkie Pie pops up next to him, “Aw, don’t feel bad. You’re not the worst Duelist in the world.”
“If anything, that would more fit Rainbow Dash,” Spike whispered.
“What did you say?! Remember, you’re talking to the same person who was able to defeat Seto Kaiba!” Rainbow boasted, trying to save face.
“Yeah, and you only won due to Yugi’s help. He was the one who summoned Exodia,” Spike reminded. “Tea did show us the footage.”
“But…,” Rainbow tried to interrupt.
“Spike isn’t wrong…You aren’t the worst out there and you did help out Yugi during the Duel, but you do need more help at getting better. I mean, the last time we Dueled you still forgot to summon your Sonic Chick in Defense mode,” Rarity reminded as Rainbow blushed in frustration and embarrassment.
“Either way, the point still stands that Joey and Rainbow here need to improve by leaps an bounds before they can hope to win,” Tristan said.
“Well, look on the bright side. At least you won’t lose to little kids,” Pinkie said as Joey and Rainbow both stormed out of the sweet shop. “Uh…are the two of them okay? I didn’t hurt them, did I?” Pinkie Pie asked.
“No, Pinkie. I think they’re just being sore losers,” Spike noted.
“Well…maybe we were a bit mean…,” Tea admitted.
“Yeah. We didn’t need to dig in that deep,” Rarity admitted.
“But…that Rainbow Dash keeps on bragging about being a pro after beating Kaiba…and…,” Spike tried to counter.
“Still, Spikey, we should be more sensitive,” Rarity said as Spike looked lovestruck and guilty.
“Fair enough…Maybe we should apologize,” Spike finally admitted. “I’ll go talk to them, seeing as how I was the meanest…”
“Maybe I should go too. It would be best to have an unbiased third party,” Yugi agreed as they both left the store and followed after the two Duelists.
—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
“I can’t believe my own friends don’t have faith in our abilities. You forget to place monsters in Defense mode a few times and suddenly you’re seen as having the skills of a five-year old!” Rainbow grumbled.
“Yeah! We could…do…aw, who am I kidding? I stink at this game, like the others said!” Joey finally admitted to himself.
“N-No we aren’t that terrible! W-We’re…you’re right! I suck at this game too! I haven’t won one Duel since Dueling Kaiba!” Rainbow begrudgingly confessed as Spike and Yugi approached, having heard what they both had said. “Uh, looks like we have company, Joey.”
“Oh. It’s good ta see ya again,” Joey reluctantly said.
“Have you come to laugh at how much we fail at Duel Monsters?” Rainbow bluntly said.
“No, we weren’t,” Yugi denied.
“We’re sorry we made you feel bad. Maybe we were a bit rude and jerkish about your Dueling talents,” Spike said.
“A little…but you weren’t wrong. Yugi? Spike? Why can't I ever win? Teach me what I'm doing wrong,” Joey asked.
“I understand that my Deck may be a budget one, but I could still do better! Why can’t I win?!” Rainbow yelled.
“Rainbow…while it is true that you could use some stronger cards, your Deck is less the problem and more needing to adapt to your Deck,” Spike said.
“Spike is right. Try to adapt to your cards and maybe look for ways to improve and work with your Deck. As for Joey…Well, let's start by checking your deck,” Yugi said.
“Huh? 'Kay…,” Joey agreed as he pulled out his deck. “Here you go.”
“Thanks,” Yugi says as he begins looking through cards, eyebrow slowly rising as he looks.
“Uh..should I take a look?” Spike wondered, seeing Yugi’s reaction.
“Uh…?” Yugi was uncertain, not wanting to be rude either way.
“Powerhouse liner, don't you think?” Joey asked pridefully.
Yugi and Spike cringe. “No one could win with these. Joey, your deck's filled with almost nothing but monster cards.”
“You got it, I packed it with every butt-kicking monster I could find,” Joey said.
“That…seems problematic?” Spike noted.
“Yeah…I’m sorry, Joey. But you need more than monsters,” Rainbow admitted. “And…Maybe I should think things through more.”
“Good start, Rainbow. As for Joey…using mostly monsters is not how the game works,” Yugi admitted.
“Huh?” Joey wondered.
“See, Duel Monsters is all about combining your monster cards with your magic cards to increase their strength,” Yugi said as he looks down at Joey's deck,” Yugi said. 
“With no magic in your deck, your monsters will be creamed every time,” Spike noted.
Joey runs over to Yugi and takes him by the shoulders. “Hah! See? That's the kind of stuff I need to know! Yuugi, you've gotta help me learn more!”
“Me too! I need as much help as I can to learn better combos for my Deck. I need to do more of what Yugi and Kaiba were doing!” Rainbow agreed.
“Umm…,” Yugi looked at Spike who shrugged playfully. “Look, I can give you two some advice, but what you really need is a true expert.”
“Aren’t we experts, though? We have the most wins,” Spike said.
“Not quite. I know someone who could be a good contender, though,” Yugi said.
—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As Rainbow, Joey, Yugi, and Spike walked towards the Game Shop… Yugi was explaining, “My Grandpa's the real game expert in the family, maybe he can help you.”
“Makes sense. Hre may help me make my Deck work better,” Rainbow said. “After all, he gave me these cards.”
“Correct. We’ll need all the help we can get,” Joey agreed as they walked into the store, Solomon finishing putting up a poster of the Red-Eyes Black Dragon and Black Luster Soldier.
“Hey Grandpa! I brought you a few new students!” Yugi said.
“Huh? Student?” Solomon asked.
“I was hoping, since you know more about Duel Monsters than anyone, maybe you'd teach me,” Joey suggested.
“We need all the advice and tactics we can think of in order to become better Duelists,” Rainbow said.
“Teach you? Duel Monsters is a very complex game,” Solomon noted warily.
“Yeah. Tell me about it. Téa beat me three games in a row,” Joey said.
“And I lost to Yugi and Spike at least three times,” Rainbow said.
Yugi then said, “Actually, Téa beat you five times in a row, Joey.”
“And, Rainbow lost to everyone, even Tristan, three times.
“Five? Aww man,” Joey groaned.
“Hey! We’re here to get better. And…as much as I hate to say it, learn. So, gramps, can you help us?” Rainbow asked.
“Hmmm. Yes. I could teach you to be a great tournament duelist. But only if you're willing to spend endless days and sleepless nights filled with rigorous training,” Solomon warned.
“Ahh. Piece of cake,” Joey said over confidently.
“Yep! Getting some tips will turn us into pros in a day!” Rainbow agreed.
“That’s not the right way to think. With an attitude like that, teaching you may not be worth my effort,” Solomon said.
“Ahh!” Joey yelled.
“No way!” Rainbow yelled.
“Nice going there, smartmouth,” Yugi whispered.
“Yeah! Maybe being overconfident isn’t the right move,” Spike said.
“R-Really?” Rainbow asked. “Well…I guess we have no choice. Ready, Joey?” 
“I guess,” Joey said as he looked at Rainbow before both of them got down on knees before Yugi. “Please, Yugi. Help me convince him. I will work hard, I promise!”
“I want to learn to the best of my ability! If we’re going to keep everyone safe we need to become better. So please! Give us help! I will do anything!” Rainbow pleaded, tears starting to enter her eyes.
“Wow…Talk about overdramatic. Still…good to see you want to improve,” Spike said awkwardly.
“I understand what you must be feeling you two. But…Listen, teaching you both Duel Monsters is too big a challenge, even for my grandpa,” Yugi said sadly.
“Hmmm... It's not impossible,” Solomon said.
“Huh? You mean it, Gramps?” Joey asked.
“You mean you’ll really help these losers become winners?” Rainbow asked as well.
“Joey, he already said he can't do it. And if he can't do it, he can't do it,” Yugi shook his head.
“Maybe there is some forum or official school that can teach you…,” Spike said a bit sadly, thinking about his MIA sister.
“That won’t be necessary. After all, I never said I couldn't do it. But if I agree, you must work hard,” Solomon warned.
“I'll do anything, I promise. I promise!” Joey yelled.
“Same with me! I’ll even try to read, as nerdy as it is!” Rainbow agreed.
“Not sure about the girl’s attitude…,” Solomon said as Rainbow looked nervously aside. “Fine, then we'll begin your instruction immediately, my young friends. And believe me, under my tutelage, you will learn. Now, can you name the most powerful Duel Monster?” Solomon asked.
“Is it the Blue-Eyes White Dragon?” Rainbow asked.
“No. They’re powerful, but not the strongest,” Solomon said.
“Uhhh... No?” Joey answered.
“Then no,” Rainbow shook her head.
“Can you name the weakest?” Solomon asked.
“Sonic Chick?” Rainbow guessed.
“Not her,” Solomon said.
“Wait. There are some weaker than her?!” Rainbow cried out.
“...Noooo,” Joey answered.
“You do know what a trap card is, don't you?” Solomon asked, hoping they could at least get this one right.
“Kinda... Uhh, I have no idea,” Joey answered bluntly.
“Isn’t it the purple one that can be used at any time?” Rainbow asked.
Solomon sighed, “Not on the turn it is set. We’re gonna need to do a lot of work…”
—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A month and a half later, inside Yugi’s home…
“Good evening duel fans and our ten million viewers at home, and welcome to the Duel Monsters Duel Dome, where tonight, the Duel Monsters Regional Championship will be decided. Of the over two hundred duelists who have competed in this marathon tournament, only two competitors remain standing. Put your cards together for Weevil Underwood, the Bug Brawler. His opponent, the number one ranked, Rex Raptor, Dino Duelist,” An announcer said.
Joey, Rainbow and Yuugi are sitting on a couch together. Téa and Tristan are on ottomans on either side of them and Spike, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie on the floor.
“Isn’t this tournament the best?! We get to see the best Duelists square off!” Pinkie Pie cheered.
“Kinda. But…Bug Boy versus Dinosaur Man, what kind of match is that? That should've been me in there!” Joey yelled.
“I agree! We should be in that matchup! We’d win for sure at this point!” Rainbow complained. “What I’d give for us all to be there.”
“What I’d give to be on an actual seat, or at least a pillow,” Rarity said as the others looked at her. “What? A lady should have a better spot than on the floor, right Tea?”
“I guess? As for you guys, I know you've been training for weeks, but those guys are in another league. You're just not ready yet,” Tea tried to console.
“Sure, rub it in,” Joey groaned.
“Yeah! I get we’re not on the same level as you or Spike! But we’ve improved! I’ve actually won a few matches! And so did Joey!” Rainbow reminded.
“And we’re proud of you for certain!” Pinkie said thoughtfully.
“And on top of that, you're both so tired you can't keep your eyes open,” Yugi pointed out as he heard the duo snore. “I think Grandpa's lessons have been a bit too tough for them.”
“Too rough for Dashie? Impossible!” Pinkie yelled.
“Yeah! How can Rainbow possibly be this tired?” Spike asked.
“Well…it makes sense. Having spent most of her time working, training, and looking for our friends would take a lot out of someone…,” Rarity said sympathetically.
“Yeah…I just hope Twilight’s okay…,” Spike said sadly as he and Rarity looked down.
Seeing this, Tea said, “Hey, I’m sure you’ll find your friends eventually.”
“Yeah! Domino city may be a big place, but it’s not like they’re dead. It’s only a matter of time before we finally find where they are,” Tristan said, confusing the duo.
“And…when we find them we can throw a big party!” Pinkie cheered as confetti popped out from behind her, making Spike and Rarity laugh.
“You’re right. We shouldn’t give up!” Spike said, full of determination.
“Yeah! Joey and Rainbow haven’t given up on their training, so we shouldn’t give up on our search! Speaking of which, how has that been going?” Rarity asked.
“Well…,” Yugi began as he thought back to an earlier point in the duo’s training from what he heard his grandpa said.
—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Joey starts to shuffle cards, but drops them all. “Aw man! I screwed up the shuffling again! You havin’ any betta luck shufflin’, Dash?”
“I’m not sure. I have to say, Joey. I’m feeling tired. Normally, I’d have a nap right about now,” Rainbow said.
“Yeah…I think we’ve earned at least some rest,” Joey agreed. “But what if Yugi’s grandpa finds out?”
“I’m sure he’ll understand. I’m just so tired…,” Rainbow said as she laid down.
“I guess you’re right,”Joey said as he puts his head down on the table in front of him. “So tired. Must rest.”
Suddenly, Solomon stands over them with a sword. “You have no time for rest!” Solomon yells as he whacks a sword he was holding down on the table next to Joey's head, waking them both up. 
“Ahh! Twilight, I told you before-wait! You’re not Twilight! Yugi’s grandpa! How nice to see you!” Rainbow said as she tried to talk her way out of trouble.
“Yeah…we just were catching up on some sleep and we’ve been workin’ so hard and-,” Joey tried to talk only to be interrupted.
“No sleeping right now, you two! Did you come here to learn Duel Monsters, or did you come here to catch up on your sleeping?” Grandpa yelled.
—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
“See, it's true what they say- you snooze, you lose,” Tristan teased as Rainbow and Joey were woken up by Pinkie Pie. The duo, having heard the comment, growled as Tea and Spike laughed good-naturedly.
“I must've been nuts to think I could ever learn this crazy game,” Joey groaned.
“I know! I have so much card tactic junk stored in my head that it’s not funny!” Rainbow agreed.
Suddenly, Solomon enters the room holding a large box.
“Time for your lesson, you two!” Solomon yells.
“Wha-? We're not done?” Joey was shocked.
“Yeah! We shuffled our Decks for hours, thought up many combos for our new spells and traps to work off our monsters, and we sorted all the cards by type and name! Aren’t we done training yet?” Rainbow asked, exhausted.
“Not by a long shot, you slacker,” Solomon shook his head.
“Nnngh,” Joey groaned.
“I know it’s important we improve, but can’t we take a break?!” Rainbow groaned.
“Now quit your whining, Joseph and Rainbow. I know you've both been working long and hard. Over the last month and a half, you’ve worked on your skills and knowledge and, I must say, you both really are coming along as duelists. And I'm quite proud of you both,” Solomon said.
“Really? You are? We may be able to soon stand up to pro opponents?” Rainbow asked as Solomon nodded, causing both Joey and Rainbow to have watery eyes. Upon noticing this, Rainbow tried to wipe her eyes. “Stupid allergies!”
Joey, meanwhile, said, “Gramps. Thank you!” Joey cheers as he reaches forward to hug him. Solomon, however, neatly sidesteps the hug.
“Oh, by the way, Yugi,” Solomon said as he turned to talk to Yugi.
Joey, meanwhile, overbalanced from the attempted-hug and fell on his face.
“Well, good I didn’t embarrass myself like that,” Rainbow snarked as Joey looked annoyed before smiling.
“This package came for you, Yugi,” Solomon said as he held out the package for Yugi.
“A package? What is it, Gramps?” Yugi asked curiously.
“I don't know. It just came in the mail,” Solomon said.
“Really? Sounds ominous!” Pinkie Pie said.
“More liek dangerous!” Rainbow said suspiciously.
“I’m sure that the package does say who it is from, right Yugi?” Tea asked.
“Right, Tea! Let’s see…Huh, “Yugi said as he pulls the package into his lap. “It's from Industrial Illusions.”
“Industrial Illusions? What’s that?” Rarity asked.
Joey, meanwhile, hops back onto the couch. That’s easy! That's the company that makes the Duel Monsters game. Why the heck would they be sending a package to you, Yugi?” Joey wondered.
“I have no idea. Is it possible they heard I beat the world champion?” Yugi thought out loud.
“You mean... Kaiba?” Tea asked as everyone thought back to that day.
“Well, seeing as how our Duel made it on T.V., probably,” Rainbow said. “Maybe they wanna thank us…or you.”
“Strange. I was outside earlier and there were packages that had an address to both Pinkie and Rainbow,” Spike pointed out. 
“Wait. There were?! Why didn’t you say something sooner?!” Rainbow demanded.
“Well…I had a lot on my mind then and you and Joey were busy and…,” Spike said a bit nervously.
“Don’t hound him, Rainbow, It’s not like you’ll be late for anything,” Tea said.
“Yeah! You think there will be a special party we’ll be going to?” Pinkie asked.
“I don’t know. I also don’t know why they’d respond to our Duel? It wasn't an official duel or anything, but Kaiba did drop out of the tournament because of me,” Yugi admitted.
“Just hearing Kaiba's name gives me a headache,” Joey grumbled.
“Yeah! I still can’t get over how he ruined your grandpa’s card Yugi. Still, thanks tto our teamwork and that PEndulum Summoning, we were sable to show him!” Rainbow said, pumped up.
“Speaking of which, what was that Pendulum thing?” Joey asked. “Do you know, Pinkie?”
“Hmm…Nope! No clue! One minute I’m cheering my friends on the next I feel all funny and then I woke up a minute later,” Pinkie said.
“Just like with me in the hospital…,” Spike noted to himself. “Strange. What exactly was all that?”
“Wait. Spike reacted the same way?” Rainbow asked.
“Yeah…It was weird. He turned out to be okay, but still. Things got weird all of a sudden. We tried to contact a doctor for help, but he was back to normal before we could find one. Hopefully it was nothing,” Tea said.
Before anyone could talk any further, Tristan interrupted, “Whoa, guys, this Duel has been intense! Raptor just stomped Weevil!”
“Really?” Rainbow asked as she looked over at the T.V., seeing that while both fields were empty, both sides had massive differences in Life Points. “Looks like Rex is gonna be the winner! Unless…Weevil has a plan.”

Weevil


300 LP


Rex 


1800 LP

“Yugi, are these guys any good?” Joey curiously asked.
“Oh yeah. They're both pretty tough customers. Weevil specializes in insect cards and he's a great strategist,” Yugi explained.
“Uh huh! And then there’s this Rex Raptor and his dinosaur cards. He uses their power to overwhelm his opponents. Hmm I wonder if his dinos would be happier with some new friends,” Pinkie wondered.
“I’m…not sure. How did you know about Rex?” Rarity asked.
“Oh! I read an online guide for the tournament! I also found a site that sells candy!” Pinkie said.
“Well…thanks for the info, you two. But still; itsy-bitsy bugs against dueling dinosaurs? Raptor has got this one in the bag, especially with his big Life Point lead,” Joey said.
“I wouldn't be so sure,” Yugi reminded Joey.
“Yeah! Like Rainbow said, Weevil may have a plan to turn things around,” Spike reminded.
“Yeah, yeah,” Joey responded.
“What? You don’t think Weevil can win?” Rainbow asked. “Remember, Yugi’s grandpa taught us to find value in any card. Weevil still has Life Points. He can win!”
“Well…okay. But it still looks like Rex can win,” Joey said.
At the Dueling Arena on the screen…
“Alright Weevil. You used your Mirror Force to stop my attacks for the turn and destroy my monsters, but next turn, you’re mine! Consider yourself... dinosaur chow!” Rex cried out as he summoned the terrible Two-Headed King Rex(1600 Attack).
“Oh! And Raptor plays one of his favorite cards, and the strongest lower level card in his Deck; the terrible Two-Headed King Rex! Looks like this match could be over right here, right now! And with the Two-Headed King Rex in play, it looks like this duel is all done,” The announcer said.
“Your move,” Rex said as he played a facedown.
Weevil laughs in a way pretending to be evil. “And all I have is this weak little bug.” Basic Insect(500 Attack) appears on the playing field.
“Weevil counters with the Basic Insect card,” The announcer comments.
“Looks like you messed up, Rainbow. He plays a wimpy bug against a giant dinosaur? The place'll be covered in bug guts,” Joey said.
“Maybe, but I wouldn't underestimate Weevil. Remember, he still has a facedown card,” Yugi reminded.
“Yeah, and so does Rex. Anyone can win,” Tea said impartially.
“I play my facedown card Double Summon! With it, I can Normal Summon twice this turn. So, I summon out Crawling Dragon #2(1600 Attack)! Then, I’ll sacrifice both my monsters in order to summon out my Serpent Night Dragon(2350 Attack)! Serpent Night Dragon, let's take this championship. Stomp 'em!” Rex played his trump card.
Weevil laughs wickedly, “You've attacked your way into my trap! But then, how could your tiny dinosaur brain know, when an enemy attacks, my vortex activates.” Weevil had played Vortex.
“Oh no! It's a trap card!” Rex was shocked and worried.
“Which totally traps your Dragon in its inescapable embrace, keeping him from attacking so long as I control Vortex!” Weevil played.
“No. My Dragon!” Rex cried out as a vortex surrounded the Dragon.
“And while he's trapped there, I'll finish this Duel off! I play the powerful Chainsaw Insect(2400 Attack)!” Weevil summoned a powerful monster.
“W-What?! 2400 Attack Points at Level 4?! That must be illegal! There has to be a downside!” Rex was shocked.
“There is! When he attacks, you get to draw a card. But…that won’t matter because this Duel will end this turn. Now, I’ll upgrade my Basic Insect by giving him two Armor with Laser Canon,” Weevil activated an equip spell. Basic Insect receives both Armor with Laser Canon(1900 Attack). “Not such a wimpy little bug after all, hmmmm? Attack! Chainsaw Insect! Ground up that Dragon! Now…attack him directly Basic Insect!” Basic Insect attacks the dino Duelist directly, reducing his Life Points to zero.
“Nooo!” Rex yelled out.
	“You know…I thought that Duel would have been harder,” Weevil laughed.
“A stunning upset by Weevil Underwood, our newest champion,” The announcer said as Weevil smirks, holding up his deck in triumph.
“Man, that cool dragon squashed by an insect?” Joey noted.
“If it make you feel any better it was massively powerful for a bug…,” Pinkie consoled.
“Talk about a come from behind victory,” Spike said.
“And now a very special honor for our new champion, here to present the Duel Monsters championship trophy, the creator of Duel Monsters and the president of Industrial Illusions. Ladies and gentlemen and fellow duelists, I give you Maximillion Pegasus!” The announcer said as Pegasus, holding a trophy, is raised by a platform into the middle of the dueling arena. He walks over to Weevil and kneels.
“Who’s the old man?” Rainbow bluntly asked as the others fell over.
“Are you kidding?! That is Pegasus! The guy who created Duel Monsters!” Tristan yelled.
“Also…I think he is just a young adult,” Tea pointed out.
“Well, I must say he looks fabulous, either way,” Rarity said.
“Congratulations,” Pegasus said.
“Uh,” Weevil says as he reaches for the trophy. “Thank you.”
“And, as regional champion, I invite you to compete in the bold new tournament I'm hosting at Duelist Kingdom,” Pegasus said.
—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inside of a car…
“Mr. Pegasus, with the announcement that you made tonight, we'll have thousands of duelists flocking to Duelist Kingdom,” A lackey said to Pegasus.
“Yes. And events such as this will hopefully attract those who possess the Millennium Items I seek. Which reminds me… did you deliver the packages to the three people I suggested?” Pegasus asked.
“The package was delivered to the boy and his two friends just as you ordered, Sir,” The lackey answered.
“Excellent. At this point, I’ll find out about this Pendulum Summoning very soon, gain the Millenium Puzzle, and see, once and for all, if I’ll find those that can eventually fight for the fate of our world…,” Pegasus said ominously.
“Um…daddy? What are you talking about?” Pegasus turned and saw that it was Jaden that had asked the question.
“Yeah. What do you mean about some Myloonium Pyramid?” Jesse asked.
“Oh, nothing to worry about my little angels. Just preparing for some special guests to come to our tournament. Just think about it. We’ll be able to see thousands of fantastic Duelists from across the globe fight for the top prize. We just need to wait a while for the tournament to start. Won’t that be fun?” Pegasus asked.
“New Duelists?! Of course that’ll be fun!” Jaden cheered.
“Maybe we’ll even see that Yugi guy and that Rainbow haired girl. That would be so cool!” Jesse agreed.
“Don’t worry! They’re definitely coming to our tournament. I’ll see to it. Now…who wants to get ice cream?” Pegasus asked.
“I do!” Both his son and daughter raised their hands excitedly.
—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back at the game shop…the trio of Yugi, Rainbow, and Pinkie had their packages in front of them as their friends were gathered around them.
“Hah! With all the excitement of the championship, you fall forgot to open your packages,” Solomon said.

“What could it be?” Yugi wondered.
“Maybe it’s a pinata!” Pinkie suggested as the others looked at her. “Or not…”
“It could be a bunch of rare cards…,” Rainbow suggested. “I still need to work on my Deck, after all. If it is cards, I can share, though…”
“Perhaps it’s a golden trophy or something,” Joey suggested.
“I don’t think so…the box is light,” Spike reminded.
“Well…there’s only one way to find out,” Tea said.
“Let’s open the boxes,” Yugi said as he opens his box. It contains a VHS tape, a red glove and two gold stars.
“Huh?” Everyone was confused.
“Some kind of glove…,” Tea noted.
“And stars,” Joey said.
“That’s a weird reward for defeating Kaiba…,” Rarity noted. “Darlings, what are in your boxes?”
“The same thing minus the video tape Yugi had. What about you, Pinkie?” Rainbow asked.
“Same here! And a few cards. Oh…! There’s also this paper that says Duelist Kingdom instructions!” Pinkie Pie said.
“Pegasus did say something about a Duelist Kingdom,” Spike pointed out.
“Looks like we may be going to a tournament! Aw yeah!” Rainbow cheered.
“Only one way to find out. Maybe there's an explanation on the video,” Tristan said.
Yugi reaches for the VHS tape in his box.
“Pop it in and check it out, Yuge,” Joey said.
“Okay,” Yugi puts the VHS tape into the VCR.
Static appeared on the screen for a few moments before, finally, Pegasus materializes on the TV.
“Greetings, little Yugi.And a hearty welcome to your pals Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie. I am Maximillion Pegasus,” Pegasus greeted.
“Pegasus?” Joey asked.
“We just saw him on TV,” Tea noted.
“The famous Maximillion Pegasus sends greetings to my Yugi?” Solomon wondered.
“Looks like we are going to a tournament!” Rainbow cheered.
“Don’t be rash, darling. We don’t know that,” Rarity said.
“I have heard some terribly interesting things about you, Yugi. I watched your Duel with Kaiba and I must say you and your friend’s present defeat of Seto Kaiba intrigued me so much, I've decided to investigate your amazing dueling skills personally.,” Pegasus said partly dismissively.
“Hey! We can Duel!” Rainbow grumbled.
“I wonder when and where you’ll Duel?” Tea asked.
“Maybe we’ll get to travel to a luxurious location for the match,” Rarity sighed dreamily.
“Oh, Rarity! I figured you’d be a bit frivolous yet magnificent in your thoughts, just like Applejack said,” Pegasus noted.
“Wait! How did he know what Rarity said?! It’s a tape!” Joey yelled.
“No clue!” Spike answered.
“Wait..you know where Applejack is?!” Rainbow asked.
“But of course, Rainbow Dash. Also, right here, right now, is where we shall hold a special duel. We'll play with a strict time limit of fifteen minutes and when time's up, the player with the highest life-points will be the winner. Are you ready?” Pegasus asked.
“Wha-?” Yugi was shocked.
“Wha-? He can't seriously expect you to fight a duel against a video tape,” Joey was befuddled.
“I don’t think this is a normal tape…,” Rarity said.
“Maybe, but that's still crazy,” Tristan said.
Pegasus laughs evilly as his Millennium Eye glows. “No, it's magic.”
“Huh?!” Everyone is confused.
Suddenly, Rarity, Tristan, Téa, Solomon and Joey fade into background.
“Whoa! Where are we? Is everyone okay?!” Spike asked, with the others being perfectly still and not responding.
“Uh…I don’t know what Pegasus did, but he did something bad to our friends! They’re like statues!” Rainbow yelled.
“Yeah…but on the bright side they could win a staring contest!” Pinkie said.
“Okay, Pegasus, spill! What have you done to them? Where have you taken us?” Yugi demanded.
Pegasus laughs evilly. “I must say I am surprised your three pals are here. My spell should have only transported you. But, regardless, We're no longer in the world you know. But I will return you... after our game.”
“Hold on! How are you able to do this? Why do you know who our friends are?” Rainbow demanded.
“Do you know where Twilight is?” Spike asked.
“Now, now. It is not currently the time for talking. Now it is time for Dueling,” Pegasus said.
“Can’t we talk and Duel at the same time?” Pinkie asked.
“Perhaps…I have plenty of answers for you…but I won’t tell you them all just yet. Play my game, Yugi. Do so, and I may give you the answers you seek,” Pegasus gave a proposition.
“Then it's time to duel!” Yugi said as his voice and height changed once more. “Start the clock and make your move, Pegasus.”
“Certainly. Let's begin,” Pegasus said as the VCR timer is shown set to 0: 15.00.
“Nervous, Yugi-boy? You should be. You have never faced a duelist like me before,” Pegasus said confidently. 
“You may be good,” Yugi said.
“I assure you, I am. And I’ll prove I’m good by playing my favorite card! Do any of you four like cartoons?” Pegasus asked.
“Oh! Yes! I’ve seen some,” Pinkie Pie raised her hand.
“Perfect! Then, maybe you’ve heard of some of my top hits! Looney Tunes, Tom and Jerry, even modern classics like Gravity Falls, the Owl House, and Spongebob! But my absolute favorite is my adorable Funny Bunny! I love them all so very much! I could spend hours of my free time watching all of them. Having a blast at every joke and emotional moment they have,” Pegasus gushed.
“Just make your first move already!” Spike yelled.
“You’re wasting time we could spend Dueling!” Rainbow agreed.
“True. True. I’ll now pay 1000 Life Points in order to play an entire wonderful cartoon world! Toon World (Pegasus-3000 Life Points)!” All of a sudden, bouncy and mischievous music played as a big book appeared and opened up, showing a cartoony castle. 
“This guy is crazy!” Rainbow noted. “Even crazier than Pinkie Pie!”
“Maybe…but he could have some plan prepared…,” Spike warned.
“I’ve never heard of this Toon World. What exactly is it?” Yugi thought in his head.
“Let the fun begin! I continue my turn by summoning Toon Cannon Soldier (1400 Attack)!” Pegasus said.
“Wait…the monster is real?! But…how?!” Yugi demanded.
“I don’t know, but I have a feeling we’ll find out,” Spike warned.
“Toon Cannon Soldier? There is a toon version of that card? He’s so cute!” Pinkie Pie cooed.
“And probably dangerous!” Rainbow yelled.
“Yes, he is! And you’ll see what I mean on my next turn! But food now, I play two facedowns and end my turn,” Pegasus ended his move.
“You may think you can psyche me out with your unfamiliar cards…But I will beat you to save my friends,” Yugi said as he drew and was about to summon a monster.
Pegasus’s Millenium Eyes suddenly glowed. “You won't save anyone with that dragon card. Komouri Dragon(1700 Attack)!”
“Wait. Did he just guess Yugi’s card?!” Spike yelled.
“I…don’t know?” Rainbow was baffled.
“How?” Yugi asked.
“Simple, I told you, you've never faced anyone like me before. I know every move you'll make. Before you can even make it,” Pegasus explained.
“Isn’t that cheating?” Pinkie Pie asked as Yugi glared.
“I’d say it is! But…how can he know?” Rainbow asked.
“That’s a story for another day. Now…Knowing every move you'll make gives me a distinct advantage, wouldn't you say? For example, I can anticipate your next play and counter it with this Dragon Capture Jar trap card,” Pegasus countered.
“Aghh!” Yugi groaned.
“It will draw the Kimori Dragon from your card and imprison the beast. Trapped. Never to be played against me,” Pegasus played.
“This is crazy. First he reads my mind, then he brings the monster on my card to life…just like with his!” Yugi was befuddled.
“Do you have any other moves, Yugi?” Pegasus asked.
“I end my turn by playing Gamma the Magnet Warrior in Defense Mode(1800 Defense). I’m confused. How can this all be possible?” Yugi asked himself.
“To answer your question,this dark dimension we're in is known as the Shadow Realm, a mystical place where incredible monsters can be summoned and the impossible is quite possible. Some have compared being in this empty void as being like he-,” Pegasus said before Pinkie interrupted.
“Language!” Pinkie Pie yelled.
“Okay, got it! Like heck. That better?” Pegasus asked.
“Uh huh!” Pinkie nodded.
“But what you're telling me can't be true,” Yugi noted.
“Yeah! Duel Monsters is just a simple children’s card game!” Rainbow yelled.
“Tell me, Yugi and friends, do you believe there is magic in these cards?” Pegasus asked.
“It’s possible…, though Twilight would want to deny baseless claims,” Spike said.
“But we saw some monsters in our dream a while back…,” Pinkie Pie said.
“I have to agree that it may be a possibility…But don't you know? You invented this game,” Yugi said.
“What if I told you I didn't?” Pegasus revealed.
“Huh?!” Yugi was shocked.
“T-Then where did all this magic and junk come from then?!” Rainbow demanded.
“Simple. There are many different dimensions where magical spirits live. Thousands of them living their normal lives. However, while we normally can’t reach them, some people found a way to summon them here. In ancient times, the Egyptians called this the Shadow Game. Powerful fellows would hold mystical duels in other dimensions just as we're doing now. But not with cards, they battled with real monsters and their spirits and with real magic. Magical forces so powerful, the Egyptians lost control of them and nearly destroyed the entire world,” Pegasus revealed.
“It's a good story, Pegasus. But these monsters can't be real,” Yugi denied.
“Tell that to my Dragon Piper(200 Attack) as his flute of resurrection frees your Koumori Dragon, but puts him under my control. Next, I play Pot of Greed in order to draw two cards. And now…I play my other facedown Toon Antics! Once per turn, I can Normal Summon a second time this turn! I sacrifice my Dragon Piper and my Komouri Dragon in order to Tribute Summon my Toon Dark Magician(2500 Attack)! But I’m not done. I activate my Toon Dark Magician’s effect! By discarding my Toon Masked Sorcerer, I can now Special Summon a Toon from my Deck! I choose Toon Dark Magician Girl(2000 Attack)! Finally…I’ll attack you directly with Toon Dark Magician Girl!” Pegasus declared an attack.
“But I control a monster in Defense mode!” Yugi yelled.
“Yeah! You need to control no monsters in order to be attacked directly!” Rainbow yelled.
“Oh, my Toons don’t care about other monsters, just Toons! I can declare a direct attack with my Toon cards. Toon Dark Magician Girl, strike at Yugi-boy’s Life Points directly! (Yugi-2000 LP)! 
“He just lost half his Life Points like that!” Rainbow yelled.
“Uh…is it just me or was that fire burst actually real?” Pinkie asked.
“Actually…I did feel the impact from here! What’s going on?” Spike wondered.
“Maybe…Pegasus is telling the truth,” Yugi scowled.
“Hah! As you see, Yugi, these monsters are very real,” Pegasus laughs evilly. “And also quite dangerous. Ah, Yugi-boy. You really are quite entertaining- the way you scowl and sneer so defiant and yet helpless. And so completely ignorant of the power of your Millennium Puzzle.
“What?!” Yugi was shocked.
“You mean that spirit thing that Yugi mentioned?” Rainbow asked.

“Five thousand years ago, a powerful pharaoh locked the power of the Shadow Games away,” Pegasus said.
'What's this have to do with me?” Yugi asked.
“The pharaoh captured these vast magical energies in seven mystical Millennium Items,” Pegasus revealed.
“Do you think the pharaoh created the spirit then?” Pinkie asked Spike, who shrugged.
“Seven items? You're saying that... is my puzzle one of them?” Yugi asked.
“Yes, and there are mystical energies locked within it. Magic that could change your life forever... if you only knew how to unleash it,” Pegasus said.
“But why are you telling me this?” Yugi asked.
“Why? Simply because I need you to know. But perhaps I have said too much. And since the clock is still ticking, I propose we resume playing our little duel,” Pegasus said.
“He's right, times running out and I still haven't figured out if he can really read my mind or if it's some kind of trick,” Yugi thought.
“Fortunately for you, Toon Dark Magician can’t attack you directly this turn. But my other monster is another story…Aw, don’t worry my dear Toon Cannon Soldier. You won’t be missing out on the fun. I’m going to let you attack Yugi-boy directly as well!” Pegasus cried out.
“I play my facedown card Pendulum Barrier! With it, I can negate one attack and place a Pendulum monster from my Deck into a Pendulum Scale! And I choose Kuriboh(Scale 8)!” Yugi played.
“You bought yourself another turn…but we’ll see if it will last. I end my turn with a facedown,” Pegasus said.
“I've gotta try something, maybe by Pendulum Summoning! I set the Pendulum Scale with Scale 2 Buster Blader and Scale 8 Kuriboh! I’ll be showing off the Heart of the Cards starting now! Witness the power of my monsters, as they enter the action! Pendulum Summon! Go, Dark Pendulum Magician(2500 Attack/Scale 3) and Dark Magician Pendulum Girl(2000 Attack/Scale 5)!”
Pegasus sarcastically says, “Whoa, the big, scary Dark Magician and his protege.”
“Mock me all you like, Pegasus. But my magicians will destroy those Toons,” Yugi said.
“Go right ahead, if you think it'll help,” Pegasus said.
“It'll do more than help, Pegasus. It'll bring you closer to defeat and bring me closer to saving my friends,” Yugi said.
“Awesome! Yugi just summoned his go to cards!” Rainbow cheered.
“This is so amazing! He can win this!” Pinkie cheered.
“Impressive how you’ve graced me with a Pendulum Summon, Yugi-boy. Now. let’s see if you can turn things around!” Pegasus said.
“Now, I’ll activate…,” Yugi began as he noticed Pegasus laugh and smirk. “Wait a minute, he definitely knows what I'm about to do. But how? It's gotta have something to do with that weird eye of his. That's it, isn't it? That weird eye must somehow let him see the cards in my hand…maybe even my moves, meaning he may have a counter if I power them up. So no matter which card I pick, he's already one step ahead of me. But that gives me an idea.”
“Hurry up now, Yugi-boy. Time is running out for you and your friends,” Pegasus teased.
“Don't let him psyche you out, Yugi!” Rainbow yelled supportively.
“I guess he's expecting me to play one of the cards in my hand. Or my Pendulum card’s effect. But what if I play a card even I haven't seen yet?! What happens if I draw a new card straight from the deck without even looking at it? I now play the spell card Pot of Greed in order to draw two new cards!” Yugi said as he drew a spell and activated it.
“Nice try, Yugi. But I already know that you plan on playing Buster Blader’s Pendulum effect to power up your monster. But…Toon Antics will power up my Toon Dark Magician instead and force you to attack him!” Pegasus revealed.
“Looks like this Pegasus guy really did figure everything out!” Spike worried.
“I wouldn’t count Yugi out yet. He looks like he has a plan!” Rainbow said.
“Correct, Rainbow! I play spell card Thousand Knives! Since I control a Dark Magician or in this case a Dark Pendulum Magician I can destroy a monster you have out! And I choose Toon Dark Magician!” Yugi cried out.
“So, you believe that you can gain the lead in this Duel then, young Yugi?” Pegasus asked.
“I know I have! I switch Gamma into attack mode! Now, Dark Pendulum Magician, attack Toon Dark Magician Girl with Dark Magic Attack (Pegasus-2500 LP)! Now, Dark Magician Pendulum Girl! Attack Toon Cannon Soldier(Pegasus-1900 LP)! Finally, Gamma will attack you directly!” Yugi cried out.
“You think you’re close to victory, but you could never be more wrong! I activate the final effect of my Toon Antics trap! Now, I can draw one card and Special Summon a Toon from my deck in exchange for it not being allowed to attack! Come forth, Toon Gemini Elf(1900 Attack)!”
“You bought yourself another turn, Pegasus, but you’ll lose come my next turn. I end my turn now,” Yugi said.
“Alright! Pegasus just got schooled big time!” Rainbow cheered.
“If this keeps up, Yugi will win for sure!” Pinkie Pie agreed.
“I don’t know…Pegasus doesn’t seem to be worried,” Spike warned.
Pegasus laughs triumphantly, before saying, “Nicely played. But by using your Dark Pendulum Magician, you've let me manipulate you once again.”
“Huh?” Yugi was confused.
“Yeah! How could he influence that move?” Pinkie questioned.
“Yugi outsmarted you! Just admit it!” Rainbow agreed.
“Actually, no…By playing that one card, you have ensured my victory,” Pegasus revealed.
“No, you haven’t,” Yugi denied.
“We shall see, Yugi. Oh, a very rare card. First off, I play my facedown card Toon Mask! With it, I can special summon a Toon monster from my Deck so long as they are equal to or lower in Level than your monsters. And…I choose My Toon Cyber Dragon(2100 Attack)! True, he can’t attack this turn, but it won’t matter. I now play the effect of my Toon Mermaid in order to summon her in Defense mode(1500 Defense)! I activate the spell card Card of Demise! This powerful card allows me to draw until I have five cards in my hand. Though…in exchange, I must discard all the cards I hold during my fifth Standby Phase after activation. I’ll now Normal Summon a second Toon Gemini Elf in attack mode(1900 Attack)!” Pegasus said as he now controlled four monsters.
“That’s a pretty good board, Pegasus. However, my monsters and I will find a way to clear it, especially since you no longer have Toon Antics on your field to protect you!” Yugi pointed out.
"Correct! You blundered big time, summoning monsters in Attack mode that can't attack! Looks like you lose, old man!" Rainbow yelled.
“First, I'm not that old! Second, you have a point, Yugi. True. I can’t attack with any of them. But…that won’t matter here. Now…Appear, the circuit that leads to fun times for the soul!” Yugi looked shocked as Pegasus’s monsters suddenly turned into light and a circuit appeared, with the top, bottom, left, and right arrows being lit up. “The summoning requirements are at least two monsters that are Toons. Now, I set Toon Cyber Dragon, my two Toon Gemini Elf, and my Toon Mermaid in the Link Arrows! Link the Circuit! I Link Summon Toon Firewall Dragon(2500 Attack/Link 4/Dark/Cyberse/A toonified version of Firewall Dragon/Arrows pointing up, down, left, and right/If your opponent controls no Toon monsters, this card can attack the opponent directly. Once while face-up on the field (Quick Effect): You can target monsters on the field and/or GY up to the number of monsters co-linked to this card; return them to the hand. If a monster this card points to is destroyed by battle or sent to the GY: You can Special Summon 1 Toon monster from your hand or graveyard.)!”
“A-A Link Monster?! You have a Link Monster?! But…I get it…you have access to multiple Extra Deck summoning methods, don’t you?” Yugi asked in shock.
"I'm still a bit stumped. What is a Link monster?" Rainbow asked.
"To put it simply, it's a monster that can be summoned from the Extra Deck. They can't be in Defense mode and have Link Arrows instead of levels," Spike answered. "You seriously never learned that?"
“But of course, Yugi boy. And…he won’t be alone. Since I control a Toon monster, I can now Special Summon my Toon Harpie Lady(1300 Attack)! And…I’ll play the effect of my Monster Reborn in order to bring back Toon Dark Magician(2500 Attack)!” Pegasus played.
“Why him? Why not bring back Toon Dark Magician Girl for a direct attack?” Yugi asked.
"Maybe he's trying to be nice?" Pinkie suggested.
"I doubt it...," Spike warned.
“The boy is correct! You think I’m dense, Yugi boy? I know your Kuriboh can negate the damage of a direct attack. So…why bother attacking that way when I can do so much more! I now play the spell card Premature Burial! By paying 800 Life Points(Pegasus-1100 LP), I can special summon another monster from beyond the grave! Say hello to Toon Masked Sorcerer (900 Attack)! Now…Appear, the circuit that leads to fun times for the soul!” Pegasus cried out as the three monsters became light. The summoning requirements are at least two monsters that are Toons. Now, I set Toon Dark Magician, my two Toon Masked Sorcerer, and my Toon Harpie Lady in the Link Arrows! Link the Circuit! I Link Summon Toon Decode Talker(2300 Attack/Link 3/Dark/Cyberse/A toonified version of Decode Talker/Arrows pointing up, bottom left, and bottom right/If your opponent controls no Toon monsters, this card can attack the opponent directly. Gains 500 ATK for each monster it points to. When your opponent activates a card or effect that targets a card(s) you control (Quick Effect): You can Tribute 1 monster this card points to; negate the activation, and if you do, destroy that card.)
The VCR timer reads- 0: 05.00.
“I'm up by nine hundred life-points, but only because Pegasus is toying with me. He now has yet another Link monster on his field, and if what I know is accurate, they gain effects by pointing to each other! I've got to find a way to beat him at his own Shadow Game,” Yugi glares. “Pegasus knows all kinds of tricks. But I gotta find a way to defeat him. I just have to trust in my grandpa's cards.!”
“Please, Yugi! My monsters have more than enough bite to beat you! First off, these monsters can attack on the turn they’re summoned…unlike other cards that are Toons. Second, I can play a few different special abilities of my own. I’ll just have to attack your monsters!"
“Wait. You’re not going to attack directly?” Rainbow was confused.
“You’re very boarish in terms of thoughts like Twilight said. I don’t need to attack directly,” Pegasus explained.
“Wait…Twilight? You know Twilight? Where is she?!” Spike demanded as he tried to rush for Pegasus.
“Whoa there, buddy! Let’s calm down!” Pinkie held back Spike.
“Answer me, Pegasus!” Spike yelled.
“All will be revealed soon enough…,” Pegasus cryptically said. “As for you, Yugi. Our game is done. I’m aware your spell card Big Return will activate when I try to attack you directly in order to negate my direct attacks. So...I'll attack your Spellcasters instead! Toon Decode Talker gains power by 500 points for each monster it points to, making his power 2800(2800 Attack)!” Pegasus played.
“No!” Yugi growled.
“I can’t beat you this turn…but I can rough you up big time! Toon Firewall Dragon, attack Dark Magician Pendulum Girl (Yugi-1500 LP)! Now, Toon Decode Talker, finish off Gamma the Magnet Warrior(Yugi-200 LP)! Well, Yugi, our time together is nearly up, and as I have more life-points than you, it appears I am the victor. I end my turn,” Pegasus said. “Yugi. Our game is done.
“Time's not up yet, Pegasus. And you've left your monsters vulnerable to a physical assault. I draw! I play the spell Pot of Greed to draw two cards!” Yugi drew Magician’s Valkyria and Magician’s Barrier! I will now perform a second Pendulum Summon! Rise again, from my Extra Deck, Dark Magician Pendulum Girl and say hello to Magician’s Valkyria(1600 Attack)!” 
“Oh, no! A bunch of monsters weaker than mine! Whatever shall I do?” Pegasus teased mockingly.
“You’re going to lose, that’s what. I play the effect of Buster Blader, giving my Dark Pendulum Magician power by my monster, Dark Magician Pendulum Girl for the turn in exchange for him being the only monster that can attack (4500 Attack)!” Yugi said. “Now…attack Toon Firewall Dragon! Dark Magic Attack!” Yugi cried out.
"Yugi's got this in the bag! With no spells or traps on the field, Pegasus has no way to keep himself safe from an attack!" Pinkie cheered.
"Yep! Looks like dopey Pegasus made an oversight!" Rainbow agreed.
“Oh, we’re not done yet! I play the effect of Toon Firewall Dragon! With it, since he is linked to Toon Decode Talker, I can now return a monster on your field to the hand! And I choose Dark Pendulum Magician!” Pegasus countered.
“That won’t work! I use Kuriboh’s Pendulum effect! Once per turn, I can negate the effect of a monster, spell, or trap that is used!”
“Not so fast, Yugi boy! I play Toon Decode Talker’s effect! Since a card I control was targeted, I can negate and destroy that card! Better luck next time!” Pegasus countered back.
“I play my spell Big Return in order to play Kuriboh’s ability again. So much for your final attempt at saving yourself! Now, end this Duel!” Yugi cried out as the attack was launched. 
“Way to go, Yugi! You won!” Rainbow and Pinkie cheered.
“Sweets will be on me once we’re home!” Pinkie yelled.
Pegasus growled for a minute before he suddenly smiled, which Yugi noticed. “You-You knew I’d be able to counter your move, regardless of if I used that spell card. Didn’t you?” 
“But of course, Yugi boy,” Pegasus confirmed.
“Then…why bother use your effects?” Yugi asked.
“Simple. Because…,” Just as the attack was about to hit, the timer hit zero and both fields disappeared.
“What?! But Yugi had the stronger monster!” Rainbow yelled.	
“You forgot about the timer already, Dashie?” Pegasus teased as Rainbow looked annoyed. “Well, we've run out of time. But how close was that? If you had been able to complete that attack, I would have lost. But I didn't, did I? I have taken the measure of your talents this day, Yugi Muto. And when next we duel, we shall play for far higher stakes. I’ll let you and your friends go…for now.”
“I'm done with your games,” Yugi growled.
“Yeah! You still haven’t told us about our friends!” Spike reminded.
Pegasus shakes his finger. “You’ll see them soon. As for you, Yugi, you presume I'm giving you a choice in the matter. But…,” He lifts hair aside to reveal the Millennium Eye. “I'm not, for I too possess one of the seven Millennium Items- the all-powerful Millennium Eye!”
“A Millennium Eye?” Yugi was shocked.
“So that’s how you know so much about the Millenium Items!” Pinkie realized.
“That's right, Yugi-boy and Pinkamina. And now I'll show you the true extent of its magic. You see, I have found that- given the proper incentive, anyone can be made to play my game.” The Millennium Eye glows and pulls Yugi's grandfather's soul into the television screen.
Huh?” Yugi and the spirit are shocked by what occurred.
Solomon, from the television screen, cries out, “Yugi!”
Yugi becomes himself again and runs toward the TV. “Grandpa!”
“What did you just do, you manchild?!” Rainbow yelled.
“What I needed to do. Yes, we will duel again, Yuugi. How else will you reclaim your grandfather's soul?” Pegasus asked as he finally disappeared. Everyone returned to Yugi’s living room, the world returns to color and Yugi's friends are now able to move. 
Solomon's eyes are blank and he falls over.
“Uh…did we miss something?” Joey asked.
“I think so. Yugi’s grandpa just fell!” Tristan said as he rushed over to check on Solomon.
“Yeah! The creepy Pegasus won against Yugi and claimed he stole his grandpa’s soul!” Pinkie Pie said.
“But…that’s impossible! No one has that power!” Rarity thought the idea was ridiculous.
“I’m afraid it’s very possible. He had a Millenium Item, too,” Rainbow admitted.
“And he may have Twilight’s soul,” Spike shook from anger as he clenched his fist.
“You okay, Yugi? Tea asked as Yugi fell onto his knees in front of his grandpa.
“Grandpa! Grandpa!! Grandpaaaaaa!” Yugi cried out in anguish.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back with Pegasus that night, in his bedroom…
“Sir, I’ve done as you suggested. I’ve stolen Yugi boy’s grandpa’s soul and have challenged him to a new game in order to win his Millenium Puzzle. It’ll serve us well, for both our missions,” Pegasus said to a voice in his Duel Disk.
“Perfect. You did cut it a bit close, though. For a moment, I thought that pathetic human was going to win. But…you were able to win thanks to the timer I suggested. Not a bad idea burning time and giving the boy more reason to come after you.”
“I did do good, didn’t I? Soon, I’ll be able to use the Millenium Items to reunite myself with Cecilia and, as for you, you’ll be free…,” Pegasus said.
“Yes…I always wondered what humans other than you did with your lives. Perhaps I’ll find out before I ready the world for its ultimate fate. But for now…goodbye.”
As the voice turned off, Pegasus sat there looking sad for a moment. “Soon, Jaden and Jesse, we’ll be a happy family like I always dreamed.”